8904

Date/TimeFromToReply ToNumberSee AlsoSubject
01 Apr 89 00:01:3Len RubinVictor Roberts-45cables
01 Apr 89 00:12:5Len RubinSysop457HP Laserjet
01 Apr 89 07:31:2SysopBruce Durocher-69Help
01 Apr 89 07:38:1SysopLen Rubin578HP Laserjet
01 Apr 89 08:16:3Chris FennLen Rubin7819Sir Phil
01 Apr 89 08:17:4Chris FennBruce Durocher6916Lock-up
01 Apr 89 17:36:1Victor RobertsLen Rubin And George Bond-1011Serial Communication essay
01 Apr 89 19:16:1SysopVictor Roberts101113Message Upload
01 Apr 89 19:19:1SysopAll-12-Archive of March Messages
01 Apr 89 19:29:1SysopVictor Roberts111314SERIAL.INF
02 Apr 89 04:23:4Victor RobertsSysop131415Communication software
02 Apr 89 07:15:5SysopVictor Roberts141518Message Upload
02 Apr 89 16:58:2Bruce DurocherSysop91617Help
02 Apr 89 17:10:0Bruce DurocherChris Fenn1617-Filer
02 Apr 89 18:20:2Victor RobertsSysop1518-serial.inf
02 Apr 89 19:44:0George BondLen Rubin81922printer drive
02 Apr 89 19:49:2George BondAll-2021Serial #s
02 Apr 89 21:05:2Chris FennGeorge Bond202124Numbers
03 Apr 89 00:58:3Len RubinSysop1922-Laserjet
03 Apr 89 16:48:2SysopGeorge Bond212425Serial Number
03 Apr 89 22:30:1George BondSysop242527serial #s
03 Apr 89 22:36:4George BondAll-26-ROM version
03 Apr 89 23:43:2Curtis ClaarSysop2527-OZ version
05 Apr 89 21:35:3Marc GiguereAll Z88 Users-2829NEW PERIPHERAL !!!!
05 Apr 89 22:53:3Curtis ClaarMarc Giguere282930Z88 DD
06 Apr 89 05:14:4Paul BinghamMarc Giguere293031Z88 Disk Drive
08 Apr 89 04:55:1Victor RobertsMarc Giguere303133Disk Drive
08 Apr 89 05:42:4Tim WoodsVictor Roberts-32-Comm88
08 Apr 89 12:38:2SysopVictor Roberts3133-DOS for Mac/PC
08 Apr 89 14:57:2Dave BennettAll-3436Nothing in particular
09 Apr 89 13:06:4SysopDave Bennett343639Nothing Reply(!)
09 Apr 89 13:11:4SysopTony Anderson3537-Message Uploads
10 Apr 89 21:15:1Chris FennTim Woods-3841CASE
11 Apr 89 18:27:5Dave BennettSysop3639-This BBS
12 Apr 89 06:01:5SysopRichard Haw-40-Reply
14 Apr 89 03:05:5Tim WoodsChris Fenn3841-calc
14 Apr 89 17:50:3SysopAll-42-Disk Drive
17 Apr 89 18:30:4SysopLen Rubin-43-YOur Message
17 Apr 89 18:32:3SysopAll-44-New Programmer
17 Apr 89 21:21:3SysopGuy Smith-45-"In Use" files
17 Apr 89 23:34:2Mike NugentAll (& Len!)-46-ZN-DOS/PDD
23 Apr 89 20:46:1Steven ZinkAll-4748ram storage
24 Apr 89 00:15:0Mike NugentSteven Zink474851ram storage
25 Apr 89 09:03:4John SmithSpeedwriting-49-speedwriting
26 Apr 89 16:02:5Victor RobertsSteven Zink485153RAM Space
26 Apr 89 16:16:3Victor RobertsAll-52-Spelling Checker
26 Apr 89 21:24:0SysopSteven Zink5153-Storage
27 Apr 89 21:43:3George BondPam Burton-54-printers/modems
27 Apr 89 23:11:2Bruce DurocherMike Nugent-5572Drives for Z88
28 Apr 89 07:48:2SysopCurtis Claar5657-Cables
28 Apr 89 19:17:5Mark StueberEveryone-58-DISK DRIVE AND BOOK
29 Apr 89 07:56:4Dave BennettAll-59-Z88 Talk
30 Apr 89 07:52:1SysopCurtis Claar-6162Cables
30 Apr 89 15:02:0SysopAll-63-Call to U.K. BBS
30 Apr 89 15:04:3SysopAll-64-New Gadget
30 Apr 89 19:07:1Victor RobertsAll-6667Spelling Checker
01 May 89 00:19:4Curtis ClaarVictor Roberts666770spelling
01 May 89 00:22:5Curtis ClaarSysop-68-cable

ARCHIVED BBS MESSAGES -- APRIL 1989
-----------------------------------

#4 33 01 Apr 89 00:01:37 (RECV'D)
From: Len Rubin
To: Victor Roberts
SEE ALSO #5
Subj: cables

As it turns out, I spoke to Phil's friend, Mike Nugent re: disk drives, and I
happened to ask about my cable project (Z88-Z88 cable)--he suggested the
following:
2-------------------3
3-------------------2
4-------------------5
5-------------------4
8-------------------9
9-------------------8
oh, yes, and
7-------------------7
I made up such a cable, and it did indeed do the trick!!
I can now effortlessly transfer programs at high speed between machines.
This used to necessitate lots of EPROM swapping.
Thanks for your input, though. I wonder whether that configuration would also
work?! I gather from all the communication on this BBS re: modem cables that
several workable possibilities exist.




 #5 33 01 Apr 89 00:12:51 (RECV'D)
From: Len Rubin
To: Sysop
REPLY TO #4 SEE ALSO #7
Subj: HP Laserjet

I was delighted to discover that I needed to change not one item whatsoever in
the EPSON driver (default) in the Z88 to enable me to print out on the
Laserjet. Just connect and fly!




 #6 32 01 Apr 89 07:31:26 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Bruce Durocher
SEE ALSO #9
Subj: Help

Got me, Bruce. It may just be a memory limit issue, tho it should handle that
in a smooth manner with error messages and a safe exit. But if you have, or
ever have, a file in :RAM.-, that could be the explanation. Personally, I
would add some RAM in slot 1 and see if the problem persists.

More info might help. What are you doing (what function) in file at the time?
Is it always the SAME filer function? How much free memory, and how big is
the file you are working on? How old is your machine? What version of the
operating system is it? etc.

Phil




 #7 34 01 Apr 89 07:38:14 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Len Rubin
REPLY TO #5 SEE ALSO #8
Subj: HP Laserjet

That is a surprise. I'll have to try it. Do you get boldface, underline, and
all that stuff?




 #8 34 01 Apr 89 08:16:39 (RECV'D)
From: Chris Fenn
To: Len Rubin
REPLY TO #7 SEE ALSO #19
Subj: Sir Phil


Len,I think"Sir Phil"might be appropriate due to the British nature of
the Z88, but as all proper courts must have their "WIZARD".
(Where would King Arthur be with no Merlin?) Might I propose ;
"Sir Phil Wizard of OZ"
(just fooling)
Chris




 #9 32 01 Apr 89 08:17:44 (RECV'D)
From: Chris Fenn
To: Bruce Durocher
REPLY TO #6 SEE ALSO #16
Subj: Lock-up

Bruce, when you say you lock up when you "use the FILER", what exactly
are you doing? Does it lock up as you are SAVING the file?(which would
normally return the "out of room" error msg.). How big was the file?
How much free ram did you start with?
Chris




 #10 30 01 Apr 89 17:36:16
From: Victor Roberts
To: Len Rubin And George Bond
SEE ALSO #11
Subj: Serial Communication essay

I have tried to enter a long message from a file on my PC and it continues to
abort. I have instead uploaded it as a file in area 2. The name is serial.inf.

Vic




 #11 31 01 Apr 89 19:16:17 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Victor Roberts
REPLY TO #10 SEE ALSO #13
Subj: Message Upload

Victor, what PC comm software are you using? The abort you mention is
probably due to sending characters/lines in ascii mode too fast for this
system to keep up. Most comm software (e.g., Procomm) lets you adjust the
pacing for ascii uploads. Maybe something like that will solve the abort
problem.

Phil

p.s. -- I will soon be merging you file SERIAL.INF; if you want me to make it
into a message instead, let me know.




 #12 30 01 Apr 89 19:19:12
From: Sysop
To: All
Subj: Archive of March Messages

March 1989 messages are now available for download from file Area 5:
AREA1MSG.389.




 #13 30 01 Apr 89 19:29:11 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Victor Roberts
REPLY TO #11 SEE ALSO #14
Subj: SERIAL.INF

Very nice treatise, Vic. I'm glad you made it a file and not just a message.
I've made a couple of changes: Title line at the top and your name and the
date at the bottom. Of course, as a message the header would have been done
be the BBS -- so I just made up for it.

Very interesting re the resistor and capacitor. Food for thought.

Phil




 #14 29 02 Apr 89 04:23:47 (RECV'D)
From: Victor Roberts
To: Sysop
REPLY TO #13 SEE ALSO #15
Subj: Communication software

Phil,
I am using something known as PCPLOT, which is basically a Tektronix
4010 emulator which supports vt100 text mode and also has xmodem and
ascii file transfer capabilities.
The ascii upload mode is set to strip line feeds from the file, and then
wait for a line feed from the host system after sending each line. It has
worked very well on your system in the past, as long as I remember to fill any
blank lines with at least one space. PCPLOT
does have the capability to add additional delays, but I did not have time
last noght to experiment with various settings.
The message seemed to get into trouble approximately after line 45 or 50 or
so. Is there any size limit in message entry mode?
I used this same program and technique to upload my letter to Jerry
Pournelle, and that went OK. The only difference in this case, and perhaps the
cause of the problem, was that the Pournelle letter was formatted for a
maximum width of 65 characters, so none of my lines were "wrapped" by your
system. In this case, some of the lines were long enough to trigger your
auto-wrap. That, of course, sent extra line feeds. If some of these came right
at the end of the line, I suppose my system could have confused the "wrap"
line feed for the normal end of line response. (The problem was not lost
characters, but your system
believeing it had seen a blank line, when none were in the file.
Yes- the "thing" was intended as a message, not a file. If you could move
it to the message area, it would probably be better.
Vic




 #15 34 02 Apr 89 07:15:54 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Victor Roberts
REPLY TO #14 SEE ALSO #18
Subj: Message Upload

Actually I LOVE it as a file -- tho it would be pretty easy to have it as
both. Several of the files ARE messages which I've judged to be of sufficient
import to make into singular files.

Now -- your problem is EXACTLY the message size limit of the system. I've
forgotten the exact number, but it is 46 lines to my best recollection. On
the CR at the end of that line you will get the action prompt (save, etc.) --
and the next character, if a legal response to the question, will be taken as
the answer.

Dumb me: I should have thought of the simplest answer first, not last!

Phil




 #16 30 02 Apr 89 16:58:24 (RECV'D)
From: Bruce Durocher
To: Sysop
REPLY TO #9 SEE ALSO #17
Subj: Help

My Z88 has the serial # 020996 (not sure how to check the operating system)
and is about two months old. I have had it lock up under the following
conditions: 1: While trying to save a Pipedream file. The machine froze
totally but did recognize the <> Purge command. All files in the machine were
lost, and the clock needed to be reset. 2: While trying to delete a
Pipedream file from memory, having incorrectly named the file. Screen froze,
<> Purge would not work, had to hard reset. 3: Trying to call up a saved file
to Pipedream. Same results as #2. I have a 128K Rampack waiting for me at
OMNI for when I finish paying off the IRS and Ma Bell, and hope that takes
care of things. I'm assuming that the Pipedream save was just a random glitch,
which I can live with--it's just that Murphy seems to be saving up all my
crashes for when I have files in the machine. I will give you a progress
report as soon as I add more memory...




 #17 29 02 Apr 89 17:10:08 (RECV'D)
From: Bruce Durocher
To: Chris Fenn
REPLY TO #16
Subj: Filer

I have an unexpanded machine. I have had it crash while deleting files in
the Filer--the <> Purge command would not work and a double poke at the reset
button ended up with all files gone and the clock back to 1987. The same
thing has happened to me while trying to save or call up files from Pipedream;
not often, but it's been annoying. I'm hoping that when I add more memory the
problems will lessen--as it is Murphy has managed to insure that it only has
happened when I've put off loading the contents into the Amiga's HD at the end
of the day. I *like* my machine, but it is tremendously frustrating that I've
been having these problems. Not sure what the file size has been, since I
tend to try to save first and look later... And my boss, who is using my 128K
card as well as his own has had none of these problems. Thanks!




 #18 29 02 Apr 89 18:20:20 (RECV'D)
From: Victor Roberts
To: Sysop
REPLY TO #15
Subj: serial.inf

File is fine with me.
Vic




 #19 31 02 Apr 89 19:44:03 (RECV'D)
From: George Bond
To: Len Rubin
REPLY TO #8 SEE ALSO #22
Subj: printer drive

The Epson driver also works like a charm with a Diconix 150.




 #20 29 02 Apr 89 19:49:27
From: George Bond
To: All
SEE ALSO #21
Subj: Serial #s

Dumb question time: *where* is the serial number on a Z88? Mine comes
directly (well, not through normal dealer channels) from Cambridge and
I cannot find anything like a serial number on it. It's supposed to be
fairly early production, but I don't think it was a prototype.
Also, how does one find the OZ version number? And what changes have
been made from OZ to OZ?




 #21 29 02 Apr 89 21:05:24 (RECV'D)
From: Chris Fenn
To: George Bond
REPLY TO #20 SEE ALSO #24
Subj: Numbers

The number on my UK made machine is hidden under the fold-out stand.
It's a screen printed sticker.




 #22 28 03 Apr 89 00:58:31 (RECV'D)
From: Len Rubin
To: Sysop
REPLY TO #19
Subj: Laserjet

The answer is, "I don't know." I haven't tried anything fancy yet.




 #24 30 03 Apr 89 16:48:27 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: George Bond
REPLY TO #21 SEE ALSO #25
Subj: Serial Number

Under the fold down foot on the bottom. Cute!

Re OZ Version: There is a way, but I've forgotten it (and which file in this
system has the info -- may be Z88PATCH.DOC)

Phil




 #25 29 03 Apr 89 22:30:18 (RECV'D)
From: George Bond
To: Sysop
REPLY TO #24 SEE ALSO #27
Subj: serial #s

Thanks, everyone. I'll look again. I know my Z88 doesn't have anything
but some accumulated dust under the foldout stand.




#26 30 03 Apr 89 22:36:45
From: George Bond
To: All
Subj: ROM version

To find the ROM version, go into basic, push help, then the left arrow.
The instructions are in the patch docs.




 #27 34 03 Apr 89 23:43:26 (RECV'D)
From: Curtis Claar
To: Sysop
REPLY TO #25
Subj: OZ version

OZ is the operating system, hence the ROM????
If it is, don't you get it by going to a help or title screen and just keep
pressing the left cursor arrow?

Isn't this where you can find out if you have 3.0 or 3.1 or whatever ROM? If
so, isn't that OZ?

Curtis




 #28 35 05 Apr 89 21:35:35
From: Marc Giguere
To: All Z88 Users
SEE ALSO #29
Subj: NEW PERIPHERAL !!!!

Thanks to Mike Nuggent, a Z88 Enthusiast, a disk drive for the Z88 will be
available for resale through Cambridge North America! The drive will run off
the serial port at 9600 baud and hold up to 200K of data. This will make an
inexpensive mass stoarge device available for this exciting Ultra-light
portable computer ! Cambridge is interested in all questions, comments and is
ready to take orders for this exciting new peripheral. All questions and
inquiries should e directed to:
Marc Giguere
Camrbridge North America
424 Cumberland Ave.
Portland, ME 04101
207 761-3700
We are genuinely interested in your response.
Thanks, Marc Giguere




 #29 45 05 Apr 89 22:53:31
From: Curtis Claar
To: Marc Giguere
REPLY TO #28 SEE ALSO #30
Subj: Z88 DD

great, thanks. Is it similar to the Tandy drive (or IS it the Tandy drive)?
Will it have a Cambridge label on it? Or a Cambridge North America? When will
it be out? Fill us in on everything you can.

THANKS TED.




 #30 42 06 Apr 89 05:14:40
From: Paul Bingham
To: Marc Giguere
REPLY TO #29 SEE ALSO #31
Subj: Z88 Disk Drive

I am glad to see you and Mike Nuggent were able to get together on this fine
item. Club Z88 PIPELINE this next issue will be doing a front page piece on
the drive unit and its capabilities.
Paul Bingham
Managing Editor




 #31 30 08 Apr 89 04:55:14
From: Victor Roberts
To: Marc Giguere
REPLY TO #30 SEE ALSO #33
Subj: Disk Drive

Mark,
I hope you will provide a companion program to read/write the disks from PCs
and MACs. This was available for the Tandy disk drive (PCs anyway) and made
the drive much more useful.
If your system does use a Tandy drive with the buad rate reset to 9600,
will you sell just the software for those of us who already own the Tandy disk
drive????
Vic




 #32 35 08 Apr 89 05:42:48 (RECV'D)
From: Tim Woods
To: Victor Roberts
Subj: Comm88

Thanks...I wasn't aware of that, nor did I find reference to it it my
copy of the COMM88 docs (I may have had an earlier version than yours).
I also had no need to run a terminal program without a modem attached,
so your notation on this is interesting.
I mainly wanted to point out that ZTERM and COMM88 are Wordmonger
"corporate twins", much like GM's Buick, Pontiac and Chevy automobiles
(identical screen displays, menus and functions)...but from your message
I gather a little bit of trim has been changed. From the discussion, I
had the impression that some thought COMM88 to be an all "new" terminal
program from Cambridge...and was confusing the issue.
Respectfully,
Tim




 #33 34 08 Apr 89 12:38:21 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Victor Roberts
REPLY TO #31
Subj: DOS for Mac/PC

I understand from Mike Nugent that there are plans to develop compatible
program for the Mac and the PC's. Due to differences in file structure,
directory formats, etc., the existing programs LASDOS and MACDOS by travelling
Softtware are unlikelyto be applicable.

Phil




 #34 38 08 Apr 89 14:57:25
From: Dave Bennett
To: All
SEE ALSO #36
Subj: Nothing in particular

I finally got up the nerve to call this BBS. I am desperate for information on
my favorite computer (Z88). GEnie has been pretty
dead lately. Phil. Thanks for providing this service. I wish there was a Z88
BBS on the east coast.




 #36 39 09 Apr 89 13:06:48 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Dave Bennett
REPLY TO #34 SEE ALSO #39
Subj: Nothing Reply(!)

Welcome aboard, Dave. Yes -- GEnie never did have much support to the Z88,
and Chris and I provided a good percentage of what there was. Personally, I've
always been turned off by their message system (can't reply to a person only a
topic) and the amount of time it takes to do a simple upload. Anyway, the
support to the Z88 in GEnie is definitly in the "oh by the way" category, and
is not likely to change.

Make sure you check the File area next time (if you haven't already). We have
collected a fair body of useful software for the Z88.

Phil




 #37 39 09 Apr 89 13:11:42
From: Sysop
To: Tony Anderson
REPLY TO #35
Subj: Message Uploads

Yes the system chokes on fast uploads, unless the lines are "paced". This is
not uncommon with public systems -- and GEnie is *much* worse in this regard.
Of course, when using PROCOMM and others there are options for ASCII upload
character and line pacing to take care of it. And my Z88COM program includes
line pacing parameter to do the same.

I will check in on the CHECK status; of course, Alan is right -- but it is
still a trap for the unwary or the forgetful. Better solutions are needed.

Phil




 #38 40 10 Apr 89 21:15:19 (RECV'D)
From: Chris Fenn
To: Tim Woods
SEE ALSO #41
Subj: CASE

Knowing that you collect such goodies. I found an old Sinclair calulater case
(alas, no calculater) that you can have if'n you want it.
(yes I'm a yard sale raider, Ha!)
Chris




 #39 35 11 Apr 89 18:27:55 (RECV'D)
From: Dave Bennett
To: Sysop
REPLY TO #36
Subj: This BBS

Yes, I there will be more support on GEnie and elsewhere. I just
downloaded a few files. The Patch programs. Thanks again for the BBS. I
will definitely be calling here occasionally although not too often due to the
long distance charges. Dave




 #40 36 12 Apr 89 06:01:58 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Richard Haw
Subj: Reply

Richard, when you came in just now you missed my reply to your earlier message
-- which is in Area 2. Generally replies to log-off messages will be in Area
2.

Phil




 #41 40 14 Apr 89 03:05:54
From: Tim Woods
To: Chris Fenn
REPLY TO #38
Subj: calc

Hey great....if you find the rest (grin) let me know. I have a shelf crowded
with Sinclair relics. I like to visit the "sales" too.
Tim




 #42 43 14 Apr 89 17:50:32
From: Sysop
To: All
Subj: Disk Drive

The long awaited DOS for the Z88 has been completed by Mike Nugent. And it is
Super!! Works cleanly and is a real godsend to the Z88 user. I haven't
tested this, but it should work with an unexpanded (8K) machine -- for the
minimalist diehards among us! Sizes out at about 2800 bytes on the menu, so
it does not use much memory.

The DOS works with the Tandy Portable Disk Drive for the Tandy 100/102/200
series of laptops. Normally it is sold with the TDD as a package, with the
necessary serial cable. I'm not sure what the pricing is though (and it may
be dealer dependent). I believe Mike and Terry Kepner are selling it direct
and thru dealers (Sharp's, for example).

If you already have a TDD, you will likely be able to buy the DOS along. but
check with Terry or Mike on this (Phone is 603-924-9455).

Mike is also planning to program versions which will run on MS-DOS PC's and
Mac's. This will let you read your Z88 disks with a desktop machine, a good
way to transfer files from one machine to the other.

I think the TDD+DOS is the second most important accessory for the Z88 (the
most important being a 128K or bigger RAM card for Slot 1).

Phil




 #43 29 17 Apr 89 18:30:41 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Len Rubin
Subj: YOur Message

Len,

I have converted your long message, uploaded as a PD file, to an ascii file in
Area 2 -- called Z88-DOS.REV. A very nice min-review of the new DOS for the
Z88+TDD, and well worth file (not just message) status.

Thanks for the upload!

Phil




 #44 32 17 Apr 89 18:32:36
From: Sysop
To: All
Subj: New Programmer

Richard Haw, a prolific Model 100 programmer a while back, has started
producing for the Z88. Some early fruits of his work are to be found in AReas
1 and 3.

Phil




 #45 30 17 Apr 89 21:21:32 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Guy Smith
Subj: "In Use" files

In use files are files that were never properly closed by the application
involved. One way to generate them is to EScape out of Z88COM, rather than
letting it time out on a failed download or upload (the Z88COM.DOC file
discusses this briefly). To kill them, you must do a soft reset. Then they
will no longer be in use and can be erased.

Best documentation at a reasonable price is the BBCBASIC Refersnce Manual.
About $35 from Sharps in Mechanicsville, VA. Developers' Notes are even
better, but pricy and not needed unless you do assembly programming.

Phil




 #46 29 17 Apr 89 23:34:23
From: Mike Nugent
To: All (& Len!)
Subj: ZN-DOS/PDD

Well, I just read the very first published review of ZN-DOS--far out! Thanks,
Len! Glad you like it! I just thought I'd take a second to let y'all know I
just squished 190 bytes out of the program (it was 2769 bytes long), so
that'll make plenty of room for more verbose error messages, plus the code to
detect and warn of the low battery condition. (Actually, Len, there's a
warning light on the drive itself, as you know, but it's not something users
are likely to notice right off.)

So anyway, it won't be long before I can ship you the new version of ZN-DOS
(on a floppy, of course ). And we've started setting up to write the
MS-DOS and Mac versions, so your desktop/laptop can read, write, and do all
the other stuff your Z88 can do, with the PDD-2. I'll try to keep you all
posted as it goes. But first, I'm gonna get some sleep! Thanks again!

-- Nuge --




 #47 25 23 Apr 89 20:46:10
From: Steven Zink
To: All
SEE ALSO #48
Subj: ram storage

I recently purchased a Z88 and took it along on a trip with 128 RAM installed.
With about 55000 RAM free I tried to save a 28000 RAM
file and was told there was no room (or some such message). Why is
this (phantom or previously erased files)? Would be interested
in anyone's thoughts on the subject since I will be taking off again with my
Z88 next weekend.




 #48 30 24 Apr 89 00:15:08 (RECV'D)
From: Mike Nugent
To: Steven Zink
REPLY TO #47 SEE ALSO #51
Subj: ram storage

Steven, this is just off the top of my head, but two possible explanations
come to mind. First, it could be that you had a file in the :RAM.- device,
perhaps caused by using a CLI function. Unless you did a directory of that
device, you might never know it was there.

A second possibility is that you simply did not have 55K free. (How did you
determine that you had 55K available?) It can fool you. For example, if you
were in Pipedream with a 28K file, and you save it, you now have two copies of
the file--the one in Pipedream, and the one saved--so that's actually 56K
occupied. Also, any suspended operations use up RAM as well.

Anyway, that may give you some ideas to start poking around with. For starters,
I'd use the Filer to have a look at :RAM.-, and if there's anything there,
kill it.

By the way, at the risk of getting commercial, did you know that I just
released DOS for the Z88 that lets you save your files on a portable disk
drive? You might find this handy for those moments like you just experienced.
If you want info, there's a mini-review in File Area #1, or you can call me at
603-924-9455.

I hope this has been of some help! Catch ya!

-- Nuge --




 #49 29 25 Apr 89 09:03:46
From: John Smith
To: Speedwriting
Subj: speedwriting

HAS anyone made a speedwriting translation pgm yet?
this would be a way to enter dictation fast with short key strokes and then
have the computer in id{e time follow up filling out the words.




 #51 22 26 Apr 89 16:02:54 (RECV'D)
From: Victor Roberts
To: Steven Zink
REPLY TO #48 SEE ALSO #53
Subj: RAM Space

Steve,

The "free RAM" function returns the TOTAL RAM free in the whole machine,
including RAM.0 (the 32K internal RAM) and RAM.1 (your 128K expansion card.)
Therefore it is very possible that you may not have had
enough space available in RAM.1 for the file you were trying to save.
I have to disagree with the comment regarding the need for free space
equal to double the file you are saving. If you have Pipedream, or any other
application running, that space is in use and will not be reported as free.

Vic Roberts

P.S. I have not yet found any way to check free RAM in a specific
"device", that is only RAM.1 or RAM.0. If anyone knows how to do this, please
tell the rest of us!




 #52 26 26 Apr 89 16:16:30
From: Victor Roberts
To: All
Subj: Spelling Checker

Does anyone know of a spelling checker I can use with Pipedream?
(It should have "American" spelling, not "British".)
Vic Roberts





 #53 19 26 Apr 89 21:24:00 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Steven Zink
REPLY TO #51
Subj: Storage

Steve, if you were in Basic, or had Basic suspended, that may be the answer.
Basic sets aside 40K when active. 128-40-55 is less than 28. So that may be
it.

Phil




 #54 20 27 Apr 89 21:43:37 (RECV'D)
From: George Bond
To: Pam Burton
Subj: printers/modems

Yes to both questions. I use a Diconix 150 and a Datatronics 2400p.




 #55 20 27 Apr 89 23:11:22 (RECV'D)
From: Bruce Durocher
To: Mike Nugent
SEE ALSO #72
Subj: Drives for Z88

Out of curiosity, how much will your program cost, with and without the
Model 100 drives? I'll probably buy it/them as soon as possible, but a bit
more information as to when and where would be a good thing...




 #57 21 28 Apr 89 07:48:22 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Curtis Claar
REPLY TO #56
Subj: Cables

Glad to hear you have a Z88, Curtis!

You will definitely need a cable for modem work and another for
computer-to-computer transfers. But one of those is likely to work
with a serial printer. But, if you have a choice, use a parallel
printer and buy the Z88 parallel printer cable adapter, for about $70. With
that you can work with most any printer you find anywhere -- great when
traveling with a laptop!




 #58 16 28 Apr 89 19:17:56
From: Mark Stueber
To: Everyone
Subj: DISK DRIVE AND BOOK

Sharp's now has the portable disk drive for the Z88 at $349.95.
We also have a new book called Z88 Real Power Computing by
Frank Flaig $24.95. By Thursday we should have the new
Database by Harvester- user friendly. Any one not on our mailing
list and wish to be, please contact us.
Sharp's Box 326 Mech., Va. 23111 (804) 730-9697




 #59 28 29 Apr 89 07:56:44
From: Dave Bennett
To: All
Subj: Z88 Talk

I will be giving a talk on the Z88 at the Capitol Fest. I got a call from
Audrey Curnutt asking me to do it. Apparently I am the only CATS
member with a Z88 free to give the talk. Tom Bent is already giving two
talks presumably on the QL. I think that it will be mostly an introduction to
the Z88 with a round table discussion at the end but I am not totally decided
on that. I you want to contact me on this I can be best reached on GEnie
D.BENNETT10 or CompuServe 75136,2045. I only call here infrequently due to the
long distance. Dave




 #61 16 30 Apr 89 07:52:18 (RECV'D)
From: Sysop
To: Curtis Claar
SEE ALSO #62
Subj: Cables

Curtis, best bet re cables is to look at the files on the topic in File Area 2,
one which I maintain (Z88-MDM.INF, I think it is) and one by Victor Roberts
which discusses computer-computer hook-ups (tho I haven't read it lately, I
recall it as very good -- and I hope I am correct in attributing it to Vic!!).
For printer cables (serial), I think that is covered in the manual which came
with the machine.

Phil




 #63 18 30 Apr 89 15:02:01
From: Sysop
To: All
Subj: Call to U.K. BBS

I just called the wordmongers BBS in the U.K. for the first time in a month or
so. Alas, thhey have added nothing new since my first call of 12/30/88.
Presumably, there is an active on-line place for the Z88 in Britain, but that
is not it!

Phil




 #64 14 30 Apr 89 15:04:31
From: Sysop
To: All
Subj: New Gadget

There has been lots of hoopla about the Wizard scheduler by Sharp. It has
never impressed me, mostly due to its alphbetical (not qwerty!) keyboard and
its rather large size.

Now there is a strong competitor from Casio -- the SF-7000/7500/8000. The
SF-7000 & SF-7500 are identical except that the latter has 64K or memory (vs.
32K for the former); I paid a $10 street price differential to get the extra
32K! The SF-8000 is larger (about the size of the Wizard) and differs
functionally by mechanical travel keys (vs. the tactile flat keyboard of the
first two models). At Tam's in L.A. the 7500 is selling for $199 and the 8000
for (I think) $249. Likeing small, I went for the SF-7500.

All models are functionally the same. They fold open, with the keyboard on
the bottom half and the 32x6 screen on the top; the six lines are for the user,
with a couple of others for annunciators and prompts. With each you can use
an optional (abt $100 when available, I'm told) RS-232 to transfer data to an
IBM PC.

Funcitons include telephone directory, business cards, memos (<= 384 chars),
scheduling (the best system I've seen, calender (two months on the screen at
once, and coupled to the scheduler), and a clock (has world time mode wiht 127
cities available). For each item on the scheduler you can set an alarm to go
off at a designated time before the defined time. And one display mode shows
a bar of the entire 24 hour doy, with those times already scheduled blacked in
-- a neat way to scan a week or a month for free time or appts.

Operation is very user-friendly. There is a function key which calls up a
screen of options which is context sensitive. Search functions are very
important, and this one really shines. For example, you can search the entire
schedule data base for all items with the word "staff" in them (for staff
meetings). And you can do dual key searches (e.g., all "staff" meetings
starting at 09:00 (time is selectable 12/24 hour, of course). Like the Z88,
you can make the keyboard beep or not.

For me, a nifty and worthwhile tool.

Phil




 #66 14 30 Apr 89 19:07:13
From: Victor Roberts
To: All
SEE ALSO #67
Subj: Spelling Checker

This is a repeat of a question I asked about one week ago.
I have not received any responses to the first message, which I believe means
that no one has an answer for me, but just in case...let me try again.
Does anyone know of a spelling checker for the Z88 which will work with
Pipedream files (and has "american" spelling") ?
If such a thing exists, I need it.

Vic




 #67 12 01 May 89 00:19:42 (RECV'D)
From: Curtis Claar
To: Victor Roberts
REPLY TO #66 SEE ALSO #70
Subj: spelling

Okay, I'll reply this time. I don't know of one, but when you find one let us
know. This reply didn't help you any, but at least now you're sure there is
somebody reading your messages.

Curtis




 #68 11 01 May 89 00:22:59 (RECV'D)
From: Curtis Claar
To: Sysop
Subj: cable

I built a cable as described in #2:SERIAL.INF and called the same as the
PCLINK cable. It works fine with FLTIBM (as it should since the real PCLINK
cable does, too). the way I further understand is that if you then connect a
NULL modem cable, the effect will be opposite what NULL modem usually is: ie.
a modem cable. But I'm not too worried about a modem cable yet, so I'll just
enjoy my "PCLINK" cable for now.

Curtis