News Archive Index
WinNews (tm) - The Monthly PC/Mac News Archive

Prepared & Distributed by:  Baker Enterprises

Assorted press releases  and news articles are available by subject heading in the topic areas shown below or use SEARCH  to find articles listed by company names.

SOFTWARE:	HARDWARE:

Business & Productivity  	PC Systems

Professional/Engineering  	Expansion Products

Personal & Educational  	Peripherals

Games & Entertainment  	Macintosh Specific

System Software & Utilities  	Miscellaneous Hardware

Macintosh Specific

Miscellaneous Software  	GENERAL INTEREST:

Books & Publications

Miscellaneous News

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About Press Releases
Full Text Press Releases...

Press Releases are distributed electronically with 100% of the entire text included as supplied by the company. Most material is available via the online news areas on America Online and Delphi within several days of receipt. News archives such as this are created at the end of every month. For additional information concerning any product or service mentioned, please contact the company directly. Check the end of the article for the company's mailing address and/or telephone numbers.

Note that additional Backgrounder reports may be available for downloading from our Information Download Libraries on America Online and Delphi.


About SEARCH Capabilities
Using SEARCH to Find Articles by Company Name...

1)	Click on the SEARCH button to see a list of companies referenced

within the various news articles included in the news archive.

2)	Select the desired company from the list, then click on the Show Topics

button (or double click on the company name) to see a list of relevant

articles for that company.

3)	Select an article of interest and click on the Goto button

(or double click on the article title) to display the article text.


About Baker Enterprises
About Baker Enterprises...

Baker Enterprises electronically distributes PC & Macintosh related news and full text press releases  via our New Product Information Service on America Online (Keyword=New Product) and Delphi (GO NEWS PRODUCTS). Monthly news archives such as this are created at the end of each month and include all news processed during the previous month. Besides this Windows-compatible format, the same information is also available in a PKZIP collection of standard ASCII text files with a simple index, but requires your own text file utilities to read. News archive files are available from a download library on AOL, Delphi, and selected Internet archive sites, or direct via mail from Baker Enterprises.

Baker Enterprises also maintains a reference database listing companies and products from throughout the PC industry. The database appears as an online searchable database via America Online in the PC Vendors Database within our New Product Information area. The same data is also distributed monthly on diskette by EMS Professional Software.

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News archives are available in either this WinNews format for Windows users, or optionally in a PKZIP collection of standard ASCII text files with a simple index that requires your own utilities to read. A one year subscription for either format, mailed on 3.5" 720K diskettes, is $60 for first class mail within the USA, $75 elsewhere via AirMail. Single copies are $5 postpaid. NJ orders include 6% sales tax. This material MAY NOT be redistributed for profit without obtaining prior written permission from Baker Enterprises. Contact us direct for more information.

All correspondence, including news submissions for FREE distribution  or orders for the monthly news archives, should be addressed to:

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Free Distribution
FREE News Distribution...

Our services are provided at no cost to any companies or shareware authors wishing to have their press releases distributed, or their company and product information included in our database. All submissions should be mailed, faxed or Emailed directly to Baker Enterprises. Press releases are typically processed and available nationwide within one to three days of receipt!


PC Industry Reference Database
PC Industry Reference Database...

Baker Enterprises produces a PC industry reference database that includes information on thousands of companies and authors, plus brief information on their products. More than just a software locator, the database also lists hardware, peripherals, publications, accessories, supplies, shareware and more -- just about anything and everything relating to the PC industry. Company information includes mailing addresses, telephone/fax/BBS numbers, Email addresses and more. The database is available as an online searchable database in our New Product Information area on America Online. The same data is also licensed for monthly worldwide distribution on disk and CD-ROM as the PC Products Database sold by EMS Professional Software. Individual copies on diskette are $25 plus $5 shipping within the USA (contact EMS on foreign orders).

For information on ordering copies of the PC Products Database on disk and CD-ROM, or optional quarterly and monthly subscriptions, please contact:

EMS Professional Software

4505 Buckhurst Cr.	(301) 924-3594   Voice

Olney, MD 20832 USA	(301) 963-2708   Fax


Business & Productivity Software
Business & Productivity Software News:

Microsoft Project 3.0 for Windows

Spreadsheet UltraGraphics

DoMark Virtual Reality Studio

PC Globe to use Etak Maps/Modules

EZ-Forms DataBase V2.62

EZ-Forms eXecutive V3.01

SalesLink Sales Force Automation

GeoClips Germany Distribution

Clipper Creative Art Service

JIAN EmployeeManualMaker

Microsoft Word Challenge Results

MailMiser Plus v1.3 Zip Code Data

AdArt Advertising Clipart

Q+E Database/VB for Visual Basic

WinSTAT Statistics for Windows


Professional/Engineering Software
Professional/Engineering Software News:

Fry Reglet Electronic CADalog

Chem-X Molecular Software

WinChem CLP Forms & EPA Database

NASA Software for PCs via Univ GA

MicroSim Filter Synthesis Option

Axxiom Chromatography Software

Gerber Editor/Viewer/Panelizer


Personal & Educational Software
Personal & Educational Software News:

Magellan CD-ROMs from NASA

Recorded Music Mgmt System

Ensoniq Distributing C-LAB Prods.

New Multimedia CD-ROM Titles


Games & Entertainment Software
Games & Entertainment Software News:

Spectrum HoloByte - Super Tetris

DoMark MiG-29 Fulcrum

Buena Vista Swr from Disney

New Disney Sales Policy

Spellcasting 201: Sorcerer Appliance

Jack Nicklaus Golf & Course Design

Star Control II: Ur-Quan Masters

Road & Track Grand Prix Unlimited

Spectrum HoloByte in Europe


System Software & Utilities
System Software & Utilities News:

3Com Network Install Tools

Norick Paperless Office

EDEN Enhanced Dev Environment

KnowledgePro Windows V2.0 (KPwin)

Database Graphics Toolkit V3.0

EZ-DisKlone Plus for Disk Copies

EZ-DiskCopy PRO Disk Duplicator

dMILL Network Kit for Clipper V4.0

DynaCom/OpenConnect

Rogue Wave Swr C++ Class Libraries

RATIONAL C++ BOOCH COMPONENTS

NeuroWindows V2.0 DLL

METADATA-DataConvert

GFA-BASIC Database Interface

Foundation CASE Product Set

Dolphin Encrypt

SKIPPER DOS Shell Update

FoxPro Library Construction Kit

OOPS Series Seminars for Clipper

Coup-de-plume Handwriting Recognition

XoftWare for Windows & DOS

Advanced Power Management (APM)

Network BASIC Library for NetWare

4DOS V4.0 DOS Command Replacement

Portable Computing Initiative

C-Debug & C-Verify Tools


Macintosh Specific Software
Macintosh Specific Software News:

Silver Cloud Mac Chooser

IdeaFisher for Macintosh V2.0

Skyline/E Ethernet Network Mgmt

Lotus Ships 1-2-3 for Macintosh

ERGO V1.0 Belief-Network Dev Envir

Inforum Group Conferencing

HandiWorks Integrated Swr Applic.

Disney To Release Mac Titles

NASA Software for Mac via Univ GA

MACLAN Connect Networking Swr Dist.


Miscellaneous Software
Miscellaneous Software News:

Mandelbrot Magic V4.0

Shareware Marketing System


System Hardware
System Hardware News:

Toshiba T2200SX with 80MB HDD

AST Advantage! NB-SX25 Notebook

AST Expands Advantage! Line

NEC PowerMate C Series Systems

NEC Lowers UltraLite Prices

Wireless TraveLite Touchscreen PC

Micro Express NB913 SX Notebook


Expansion Hardware
Expansion Hardware News:

CAM-PC 24 MIPS Hdwr Accelerator

Trantor CD-ROM Interface/Drivers

Camintonn/Z-RAM Memory Upgrades

Datel Fast 16 Channel D/A Board

ComputerEyes/RT Frame Grabber Swr

Multimedia Studio with VIGA-16 Brd


Peripheral Hardware
Peripheral Hardware News:

Star Micronics NX-2430 24-pin Prtr

StarJet SJ-48 Ink Jet Printer

Emerald to Mfg Solectron Tapes

Micro Solutions Backpack HDD

USR Shared Access Modem Kits

NEC Silentwriter Model 95 PostScript

OCE Graphics 4MB PostScript Printer

SupraFAXModems Breaks Price Barrier

New NEC M Series Intersect CD-ROMs


Macintosh Specific Hardware
Macintosh Specific Hardware News:

(No entries for this newsgroup)


Miscellaneous Hardware
Miscellaneous Hardware News:

NIGHT-OFF Remote Power Control

LASERNET Printer Sharing Unit


Books & Publications
Books & Publications:

Amacom Info Protection Book

Technical Data Into Presentations

GUI Magazine - Online & On Disk

MS Press-Excel Macros & Mac C Prog.

WordPerfect for Windows Guide

Mac Bible & Peachpit Press Merge

WordPerfect for Windows Training

Intro to PCs Audio Cassettes


Miscellaneous News
Miscellaneous News:

Sleuthing with Windows

SPA European Swr Piracy Report

New Software Distributor Service

NetWorld 92 Boston Keynote Speaker

Clarion & Jensen Merger

SPA Japanese Swr Piracy Report

NetNews/CD Includes USENET News

Intracorp Buying Into PC Globe

Berkeley '92 After Dark Contest

NetWorld 92 Show Floor Sell-Out

Human Resource Mgmt Conference


Magellan CD-ROMs from NASA
MAGELLAN CD-ROMs  ---  January 16, 1992

Twenty new Magellan CD-ROMs have been released by the Magellan project. A total of 42 Magellan CD-ROMs has now been released.  The CD-ROMs contain the radar images taken by the Magellan spacecraft during its first 8 month mapping cycle of the planet Venus.  The CD-ROMs can be obtained from the National Space Science Data Center (NSSDC) at the Goddard Space Flight Center.

The "nominal" charge is $20 for the first CD-ROM, and $6 for any additional CD-ROM in an order.  However, NSSDC may waive this charge for a small amount of data requested by bona fide research users, government laboratories, etc.  School teachers who are unable to pay may be helped on a case by case basis, and/or as resources permit.  Researchers funded by NASA's Solar System Exploration Division can also obtain the CD-ROMs through the Planetary Data System at JPL.

     NSSDC's address is:

        National Space Science Date Center

        Goddard Space Flight Center

        Greenbelt, Maryland 20771

        Tel: (301) 286-6695

Internet Email address:   request@nssdca.gsfc.nasa.gov

NSSDC also provides the following software to display the images:

        o IMDISP       (IBM PC)

        o Browser      (Macintosh)

        o Pixel Pusher (Macintosh)

        o True Color   (Macintosh)

The Magellan project is continuing to produce CD-ROMs at the rate of 8 per month.  The full planet will be available by February in a set of about 50 CD-ROMs.


Amacom Info Protection Book
FROM BREAK-DOWNS TO BREAK-INS

NEW AMACOM BOOK SHOWS HOW TO KEEP VITAL COMPUTER DATA SAFE AND SOUND

- A breakdown in long-distance telephone communications brings air traffic to a halt over New York City, and the country's airports are thrown into chaos for an entire night

- A computer glitch in a New Jersey high school prevents half of the students from attending class on the first day of the semester and puts the school in jeopardy of losing state educational funds

- Users of vital computer data at NASA and Wright Patterson Air Force Base are denied access to vital data because of a computer virus attack.

The stories are endless, and although the circumstances vary, information break-downs and break-ins are becoming more commonplace as our dependence on information grows.  How to secure that information and make individuals and businesses rely on that data less vulnerable to its loss is the subject of INFORMATION PROTECTION AND OTHER UNNATURAL ACTS .  .  .  Every Manager's Guide to Keeping Vital Computer Data Safe and Sound (AMACOM Books, December 12,1991, $24.95, paperback, 256 pages).  Author Harry B.  DeMaio is a pioneer in information protection and currently national director, ProTech/Information Protection Services of Deloitte & Touche.

In INFORMATION PROTECTION AND OTHER UNNATURAL ACTS, DeMaio warns businesses that failure to move information protection from the "ignore, react and retrofit mode" to the "strategize, plan and anticipate mode" can jeopardize an organization's competitive edge, reputation for quality and service, cost control, profitability, and even its continued existence.

The book has been written so that even those unfamiliar with computer technology will be able to easily understand the principles of information security and contingency planning.  It tells readers how to set up an information protection program; how to "sell" an information protection plan to higher-ups; how to organize computerized and hard copy information so that it's easily accessible to those who need it and not available to those who don't; and how to deal with hackers, viruses, and information attacks.

"In this age of information expansion, many companies are pushing the capacity of their technology to its limits to handle growing transaction volumes, databases, and applications," says DeMaio.  "In these circumstances, stable, well-controlled systems become absolute necessities."

Formerly head of information security for IBM, Harry B.  DeMaio has 35 years experience advising major manufacturers, wholesale and retail distributors, financial service organizations, communications service firms and governments on the planning, design, development, and deployment of information systems, especially security functions in complex systems environment.

Title:  INFORMATION PROTECTION AND OTHER UNNATURAL ACTS Author:  Harry B. DeMaio Pub.  Date:  December 12, 1991 Price:  $24.95 (Paperback, 256 pages) ISBN:  0-8144-7780- 1

The book at a glance .  .  .

INFORMATION PROTECTION AND OTHER UNNATURAL ACTS .  .  .

Every Manager's Guide to Keeping Vital Computer Data Safe and Sound

Will Tell You .  .  .

- Why information protection is so critical

- How changes in information processing affect information controls

- Who should be responsible for information protection

- How to plan, develop and implement a protection program that fits your organization's needs

- How to get senior management's attention and support .  .  .  and backing from your peers

- How to classify information and information resources in order to establish appropriate levels of protection

- How the access control process works

- How to deal with disruption threats such as storm, structural failure, earthquake, power loss, loss of personnel, physical equipment failure, etc.

- How to distinguish a computer virus from other kinds of attacks

- How to manage a crisis .  .  .  or keep an "incident" from becoming one

- How to differentiate policies, standards, procedures, and guidelines

- How to work with the press should a serious incident occur in your company

amacom, A Division of American Management Association

135 West 50 St, New York, NY 10020


Microsoft Project 3.0 for Windows
Microsoft Corporation announced Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows, with new and advanced features that give users unprecedented flexibility in the way they manage and communicate plans.  Since its introduction in May 1990, Microsoft Project for the Windows graphical environment has become the best selling project management product worldwide, based on both sales figures and industry awards and honors.

The design goal for Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows was to improve usability and functionality, based largely on feedback from users of Microsoft Project version 1.0 for Windows.  All of the top 10 requests from current users have been incorporated in this version.  This version was recently given the highest overall evaluation for project management software in user testing conducted by National Software Testing Laboratories (NSTL).

"The project management category is growing and changing," said Pete Higgins, Microsoft vice president, analysis business unit.  More than 60 percent of the current base of Microsoft Project users are general business planners in such diverse fields as engineering, advertising and media planning and consulting.  "With incorporates sophisticated reporting, graphing and printing functions that dramatically improve communication capabilities.  These include:

Multiple Page Print Preview.  A great deal of Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows output consists of Gantt and PERT charts, which often span multiple pages -- both horizontally and vertically.  Its unique Multiple Page Print Preview allows users to easily view up to 32 pages prior to printing and to scroll both horizontally and vertically through previewed output.

* Monthly Calendar Reports print calendar pages for individuals, groups or projects, displaying scheduled tasks as bars spanning the appropriate dates -- an intuitive metaphor for users.

Fit-to-page Printing allows users to print single page Gantt charts on PostScript devices, a frequently requested feature.

Resource Graphs, dramatically enhanced in Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows, allow users to view resource work, cumulative work, over-allocation, percent allocation, availability, cost, cumulative cost and peak resource allocation in customizable graphic format.  The Resource Graphs can display information for individuals or groups -- and by selected time period -- in a number of different graph types with various colors and patterns.  In addition, it ships with a Graph module that allows users to create custom graphs from virtually any project information.

* Spelling Checker, an important fit-and-finish feature.  Users can customize dictionaries and share dictionaries with other Microsoft applications, such as Microsoft Word for Windows.

Integration Features Facilitate Custom Solutions

Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows incorporates both dynamic data exchange (DDE) and object linking and embedding (OLE), putting a wide range of integration options within reach.  Comprehensive DDE, implemented on an individual field basis, allows users to create Custom solutions with other tools, such as Microsoft Excel, for additional number-crunching and analysis.  One such integration solution provided with the product handles user-defined inflation factors to project costs.  Within Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows itself, DDE is used for cross-project task linking and other integration functions.  Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows implements OLE as both client and server so that users can, for example, embed Gantt charts in applications such as Microsoft Word and Microsoft PowerPoint presentation graphics program, and have these charts update automatically when the project changes.  Or the user may attach detailed specifications from a Microsoft Word document to individual Microsoft Project tasks.

Microsoft Project for Windows is part of the Microsoft family of applications for Windows, which includes Microsoft Excel for Windows, Microsoft Word for Windows, Microsoft PowerPoint and Microsoft Mail.  All family members share a standard graphical user interface, and users can implement common functions in standard ways, making those functions easy to learn.  Also, users can easily transfer data from one Windows-based application to another via DDE, OLE and cut-and-paste.  In addition, users of Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows can read and write files from Microsoft Project 1.1 for the Macintosh, which provides users with a superior cross-platform solution.  Availability and System Requirements

The U.S.  suggested retail price (SRP) for Microsoft Project version 3.0 is $695.  Current users of Microsoft Project can upgrade to version 3.0 for $149 SRP.  Current plans are for product availability Feb.  15, 1992.  The first product builds will be reserved for upgrade customers.

Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows will be available internationally, where it is the #1 package for project management. Microsoft plans to localize Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows into French, German, Swedish and Italian versions.

System requirements are as follows:  a personal computer with an 80286 or higher microprocessor; Microsoft Windows graphical environment version 3.0 or later; MS-DOS operating system version 3.1 or later; 2 MB of RAM; one 5.25-inch high density (1.2 MG) or 3.5-inch high-density (1.44 MB) disk drive and a hard disk drive with EGA, VGA, 8514 Hercules Graphics card, or other compatible high-resolution graphics card.  Microsoft recommends an 80386 or higher microprocessor, Microsoft mouse or compatible mouse; and 3 MB of RAM.  (Note:  3.5-inch low-density (720K) disk set available with coupon.)

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

Microsoft Corporation announced that the new Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows achieved the highest program rating in user testing conducted by National Software Testing Laboratories (NSTL).  This is the second year in a row that Microsoft Project for Windows won top honors from NSTL.

"We're proud of the NSTL testing results," said Pete Higgins, vice president of analysis business unit for Microsoft.  "Through listening to our users and conducting usability testing, we've been able to take a great product and make it even better."

In NSTL tests matching a prerelease version of Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows against four shipping project management programs, Microsoft Project for Windows received the highest scores in the overall evaluation category (7.9), ease of learning (7.8) and ease of use (8.3) categories.  The overall evaluation category is a weighted average of individual scores for software performance, quality, versatility, ease of learning and ease of use.

Testers Laud Microsoft Project for Windows Balance of Ease of Use and Performance

Summarizing test results on Microsoft Project for Windows, the NSTL report stated:  "This program offers excellent speed, superior charts and a well-rounded set of features.  Microsoft packages this power in a well-planned interface that NSTL testers rated the easiest to learn and use.  No other program allows new users to set up projects and generate usable charts as quickly and as elegantly as Microsoft Project for Windows. "

The report continued:  "Microsoft Project for Windows earns its top score with unmatched ease of learning and use, excellent features and speedy performance ...  the program balances power and usability better than any other program."

In the section on usability, which covers both ease of learning and ease of use, the report stated:  "Microsoft Project for Windows takes top honors, providing menu organization and mouse functions that make manuals superfluous for most procedures ...  Microsoft includes built-in macros that prompt users step-by-step through complex procedures."

Commenting on chart quality, the report stated:  "Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows dominates this area.  Great flexibility and control over details and scaling allow users to create attractive and informative charts with minimal effort.  In three of the four chart quality tests, Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows produces the best output ...  The top-rated LaserJet charts of Microsoft Project version 3.0 for Windows print five to ten times as fast as the average."

The results of the project management program ratings were published in the January 1992 (Volume 8, Number 14) issue of the Software Digest Ratings Report.

NSTL comparison tests are the result of controlled user evaluations of such categories as ease of learning, ease of use, speed and quality of performance, and features and functions.  In the comparison tests, users perform a series of application

specific functions on each of the products and then evaluate the product's strengths and weaknesses.  Founded in 1984 and based in Plymouth Meeting, Penn., NSTL is a subsidiary of McGraw-Hill, Inc.


Silver Cloud Mac Chooser
Silver Cloud, a new enhanced version of the Macintosh Chooser, will ship March 2, 1992 from The AG Group.  Silver Cloud maintains the original function of Apple Computer, Inc.'s Chooser, but adds several significant features which simplify users' interaction with large AppleTalk networks.

Apple Computer, Inc.'s Chooser is a Desk Accessory which allows users of Macintosh computers to select services such as file servers and printers by clicking on device names.  Silver Cloud is a reimplementation of the Chooser DA that provides the ability to organize zones into hierarchical "quasi-zones" at the desktop level and an improved graphical user interface.  This structure can be centrally administered and provides a method for hiding some zones on a network.

Silver Cloud Appearance and Function

Silver Cloud is designed to simplify network management while allowing network managers to present only organized, relevant information to individual users.  The basic function of Silver Cloud is the same as the existing Chooser, but with an interface similar to that of the Finder with quasi-zones playing the role of folders.  Instead of a long alphabetized list of zones and devices, Silver Cloud presents a hierarchical view of larger networks.  In addition, Silver Cloud users will be able to click and drag device icons, placing an alias for devices frequently used into a local quasi-zone.

Silver Cloud Features Detailed

Silver Cloud features can be grouped into administrative and interface categories as follows:

Administrative Features

- Hierarchical Zone Listings:  Zones may be nested within "quasi-zones", similar to folders at the desktop level, providing a uniform picture of the network to all users.

- Hiding:  Zones, services and objects can be hidden from users, so items that a network administrator deems confusing or inappropriate for some users will not appear.  For example, a LaserWriter in the executive offices can be hidden and will not be available to regular users through Silver Cloud.

- Zone Management:  Configuration information is contained in a prep file. A network manager can maintain this file on a central server for downloading.  Interface Features

- Click and drag device manipulation:  Frequently used devices may be dragged into a local "quasi-zone" and easily located later.  A user may place his default printer and file server, which may actually be in separate zones, in a local quasi-zone named "Services".

- Aliasing:  An "alias", or pointer, to an actual device can appear with a convenient name in any quasi-zone.  This feature allows network managers to give devices more meaningful names.  For instance, the name "default printer" can appear in several locations in a corporation; however, it may actually be an alias for different print servers or devices depending on the user's location.

Silver Cloud nuns on any Macintosh and works with System 6.0.x and System 7.x.

The Need Silver Cloud Fills

Silver Cloud improves access to distributed resources by allowing the system administrator to control users' views of zones and resources.  This is especially important to users on large networks where the number of zones and devices can be overwhelming.  For users, Silver Cloud helps organize a large number of zones and services in the same way that folders and aliases can organize a large number of files.  Network managers, on the other hand, use the old concept of zones, or subnetworks, lo group devices and optimize traffic flow.  These zones are often configured in a way which makes sense for a network manager but is not intuitive for end users. Silver Cloud is designed to fill this gap between the need of network managers to configure networks for management efficiency and the desire of users for intuitive operation.

Pricing and Availability

Silver Cloud will be available March 2, 1992.  The product will be sold in multi-user packs priced in the U.S.  as follows:  Silver Cloud 50-user pack $695; 200-user pack $1,695; 500-user pack $3,495.  Site licenses and education discounts are available.  AG Group products come with free telephone support.

AG Group Annual Service Contracts for Silver Cloud are also available.  For approximately 15% of the retail price of the Silver Cloud pack purchased, holders of service contracts get priority technical support, free product upgrades and updates, regular "TechTips" and "Node News" mailings and more. Annual Service Contracts are sold by The AG Group directly.

The AG Group

2540 Camino Diablo, Suite 202, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Telephone (510) 937-7900.  FAX (510) 937-2479


3Com Network Install Tools
Microsoft Corporation announced the availability of transition tools to help 3Com network installations provide a smooth transition to Microsoft Mail for PC Networks.  Microsoft and 3Com have been working together to provide the most complete support to 3Com customers who must deal with 3Com's transition out of the electronic mail and networks business and who are moving to Microsoft Mail and LAN Manager.

"We understand how difficult it can be to manage a mail system upgrade, so we want to give users the tools to evaluate and implement their upgrade to Microsoft Mail" said Daniel Petre, general manager of workgroup applications at Microsoft.  "Our corporate customers, with thousands of workstations, are coming to us looking for ways to leverage their investment in 3+Mail."

The Microsoft Mail Conversion Utilities for 3+Mail are designed to provide a smooth transition for the thousands of 3+Mail installations being converted to Microsoft Mail.  The tools will allow 3+Mail users to preserve their messages and folders by converting them to Microsoft Mail for PC Networks format.

The conversion utilities for 3Com users are available now at no cost.  They can be obtained from Microsoft Network Specialists or by calling (800) 227-4679.  In addition, the conversion tools will be available on the CompuServe and America Online public bulletin boards.

Gateway for 3+Mail Users

The Microsoft Mail Gateway to 3+Mail will let both mail systems coexist and communicate seamlessly on the customer's current network.  This allows customers to implement the conversion from 3+Mail in stages, minimizing the disruption to their organization while maintaining interoperability for all users.  The gateway works with both Microsoft Mail for PC Networks version 2.1 and the upcoming version 3.0.  Microsoft Mail and the gateway will work across existing 3Com to XNS bridge and router infrastructures.

Microsoft now supplies a line of robust, full-featured gateways to meet the strategic needs of large enterprises:  X.400, PROFS, SNADS, SMTP, MHS, and MCI MAIL, as well as the popular FAX gateway.

The Microsoft Mail Gateway for 3+Mail will be available in March through dealers for $99 suggested retail price.

Extension of Upgrade Pricing Offer

Microsoft also announced an extension of its special $99 offer for current 3Com customers to upgrade from 3Com 3+Open Mail and 3+Mail to Microsoft Mail for PC Networks version 2.1 until April 30, 1992.  The upgrade package includes software for a server and 100 users, message transfer software for server-to-server communication and remote user access, and MS-DOS, Windows, Macintosh, and OS/2-Presentation Manager operating system-based workstation software.

The upgrade offer is available through Microsoft Network Specialists or by calling (800) 227-4679.


Star Micronics NX-2430 24-pin Prtr
Star Micronics has announced the feature-rich, yet easy-to-use NX-2430 24-pin dot matrix printer.  With its front panel LCD display, font scalability and WYSIWYG capability, as well as other high-end features such as auto emulation change, plus an array of value-added aids for end users and resellers alike, the NX-2430, priced at $399, is a standout value for small business and home office users.

"Cost-conscious small business and home office users who demand high performance features, versatility and functionality, such as font scalability, in a very easy-to-use printer will particularly appreciate the NX-2430 MULTI-FONT.  The production of attention getting documents, formerly available only with laser printers costing three times the price of the NX-2430 MULTI-FONT, are possible with this new printer," stated Gary L. Bailer, director of marketing for Star Micronics.

"We expect strong demand for the NX-2430 MULTI-FONT from several market segments, including first time users attracted by the ease of use, replacement buyers who want to upgrade to a full-featured 24-pin at the same price levels of as their current 9-pin printers, and businesses that need to supplement their overburdened shared network printer," noted Gary Bailer.

HIGH-END FEATURES

LCD Front Panel Display The LCD front panel display on the NX-2430, the first to be available in a printer under $400, provides the current real time status of the print job in plain English.  This includes resident bitmapped fonts, pitch as well as settings, such as font lock mode, pitch lock mode, quiet mode and panel macro mode.

High Performance Character Generation

The NX-2430 MULTI-FONT comes with a set of two 5-1/4-inch 1.2 MB floppy disks with utilities and fonts that enable the printer to deliver virtual desk-top publishing output.  A program called "FaceLift for Star" delivers thirteen Bitstream fonts scalable to virtually any point size using Windows Version 3.0 as well as a wide variety of DOS-based software packages including Harvard Graphics Version 3.0, Lotus 1-2-3, Version 2.3 and First Publisher, Version 3.0.  The disks also contain a Star 24-pin printer driver for the Windows 3.0 utility.  The incorporation of the Bitstream fonts with WYSIWYG capability pushes the NX-2430 into competition with higher priced laser printers.

The printer's 11 resident bitmapped fonts include 9 Letter Quality and 2 Draft fonts.  Letter Quality fonts are Roman, Roman Proportional, Sanserif, Sanserif Proportional, Courier, Courier Proportional, Prestige, Prestige Proportional, and Script.  Eight optional font cartridges provide a total of more than twenty-one additional fonts, including eighteen letter quality fonts and three Super Letter Quality fonts for near laser quality looking documents.  The thirteen scalable Bitstream fonts include Swiss Roman, Swiss Italic, Swiss Bold, Dutch Roman, Dutch Italic, Dutch Bold, Dutch Bold Italic, Park Avenue, Bitstream Cooper Black, Brush Script, Formal Script 421 and Monospace 821.

The printer's 16 RB of RAM accepts up to 256 characters of downloadable fonts.  In addition, the memory is upgradable to 48 RB through installation of one of two optional 32 RB RAM cartridges, either the DC-32Z priced at $35 or the RC-32Z priced at $49.  The RC-32Z, includes a memory backup that permits the downloading and permanent storage of frequently used downloadable fonts or bitmapped images such as company logos.

THE NX-2430 IS EASY TO USE

Simplified Set Up Features

Three features that make the NX-2430 especially easy to use include electronic dip switching, an automatic emulation change function as well as a proprietary set-up program.

* An electronic dip switch mode accessible on the front panel replaces the conventional mechanical dip switches.  The electronic dip switch mode permits users to alter more than fifteen power-on settings including emulation controls, RAM usage, and page length.

* An automatic emulation change function permits the printer to automatically detect and respond with the appropriate emulation, either of the printer's Epson ESC/P or IBM standard modes.

* A convenient set-up program is also provided on the 5-1/4inch floppy disks mentioned earlier.  The set-up program allows users to pre-select printer setting combinations for storage and convenient call-up at any time.

Paper Handling Conveniences Include:

* A clam-shell design cover for easier paper loading.

* A flat belt tractor feed makes it extremely easy to load paper, with imprinted icons next to the paper lever to clearly show the paper feed mode selected.

* Fully automatic paper loading and a caterpillar type, push tractor feed for a smooth, secure paper feed.

* A short tear-off function and printing from top-of-form to the bottom edge of the paper to minimize paper waste.

* An automated paper parking feature that allows the user to temporarily unload and reload tractor fed paper and to insert single sheets, without having to manually perform the task.

* When the bail lever is moved forward, paper is automatically loaded and the bail arm closes, helping to prevent any paper jams.  When bail arm is moved forward, paper is automatically advanced to a tear-off position.

* An audible error detection alarm alerting the user to an incorrect paper feed mode selection.

* Accommodation of a wide variety of paper types including fanfold paper, multi-part forms of up to three copies, and labels.

* Loading of sheets in either a landscape or portrait orientation.

* An optional single bin automatic sheet feeder and optional bottom feed pull tractor are available.

* Paper parking functions even while the single bin sheet feeder is attached.

Additional Conveniences Include:

* Low noise measuring only 53 dBA in LQ mode and 51 dBA in LQ quiet mode. The NX-2430 has been engineered to especially dampen irritating noise in the high-frequency range.  This has been accomplished in three ways:  The use of double wall cabinetry, the inclusion of high-frequency sound absorption materials, and a top cover designed to deflect irritating noise away from the user.

* Front panel error message display with audible error alarm.

* ON/Off switch in the front, Centronic parallel interface on the side (optional RS-232C serial to parallel converter cable), and the power cable located away from the paper path to eliminate a potential causes of paper jams.

* A front panel decal offers ready reference for front panel switch combination modes.

* A ribbon reorder form is in each box for convenient resupply.

MERCHANDISING AIDS

Resellers and end-users alike will appreciate and benefit from several merchandising aids including:

* A colorful and graphic product packaging with a convenient carrying handle.

* A decal emblazoned on the cover highlights the key features and selling points.

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

Star Micronics has introduced an innovative packaging system for its newest dot matrix printer, the NX-2430 MULTI-FONT.  The printer is contained in a unique recyclable carton, designed to self-sell the product.

NX-2430 printers are being packed and shipped in four-color, graphically exciting cartons depicting major product features in icon form on the front and back, complemented by feature descriptions in three languages (English, French and Spanish) on the side panels.  The new package also features an integrated corrugated carrying handle for convenient consumer transport.

"Resellers want computer products that can develop strong sales appeal even before leaving the box," states Gary Bailer, marketing director for Star Micronics.  "Packaging with strong sales appeal is especially desirable for prime retail locations such as window displays and aisle end-caps.  Our new packaging not only attracts customer attention, but enables them to understand the product's features without the aid of a salesperson," explains Bailer.  "The NX-2430 packaging assists salespeople by depicting its major selling points on the outside of the box, thus providing convenient selling prompts."

Environmentally Friendly Packaging

Adding to the appeal of the Star Micronics packaging, is the recyclability of the entire container, itself made from recycled corrugated stock. Protective spacers inside the box are similarly fabricated for recyclability, as is the integrated carrying handle.

Merchandising Aids Inside

To enhance retail display of the printer outside the box, an acetate decal, called a "silent salesman," is emblazoned on the acoustic cover of the printer.  This decal details the 16 key features of the printer in icon form.  A separate function decal -- the combination mode decal -- is also attached next to the LCD display, denoting 15 operator panel functions. After purchase, users can easily remove the decal on the acoustic cover and leave the combination mode decal in place as a handy reference guide.

User's Guides Inside

In addition to the user's handbook, a single page plastic laminated user's guide conveniently highlights control panel operations including electronic dip switch controls.

Ribbons and Ribbon Packaging Enhanced

New packaging treatment has also been given to Star's newest ribbons, which provide superior dark, crisp, high definition output for text and graphics, and are packed one each to a printer.  High definition graphics clearly identify this "genuine" high performance ribbon.  In addition, the new ribbon packs allow resellers to conveniently stack, rack or peg the ribbon carton.  The ribbons are available in a "6 pack" for easier inventory control.

All Star products are UPC labeled for convenient in-store and point-of-sale inventory control.

For further information on Star printers, call (800) 447-4700.

Star Micronics America, Inc.

420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 2702, New York, NY 10170

(212) 986-6770 Fax (212) 286-9063


StarJet SJ-48 Ink Jet Printer
Star Micronics America, Inc.  has announced the StarJet SJ-48, a highly-functional, multi-purpose, 4-pound ink jet printer designed for the executive on the move.  Its 64-nozzle printhead very quietly prints virtual laser quality output for documents as diverse as presentations, newsletters, reports and spreadsheets on a range of paper stocks including plain bond, labels, envelopes and cards.

Operating from either AC power or an optional Ni-Cd battery pack, which allows up to 40 pages of printing without re-charging, the multi-purpose StarJet SJ-48 prints almost any type job whether in an office, home, hotel room, airplane or train.  The suggested retail price is $499.

* Auto capping of the printhead when the printer is not in use, and a control panel activated automatic cleaning feature to help prevent clogging of the printhead.

* Front panel control of sixteen functions including top-of-form, paper eject, panel reset, pitch lock, bitmapped fonts, self-test, printhead cleaning and battery charge.  The raised-edge panel controls permit tactile confirmation of where users must push to activate printer functions.

* A variety of print enhancements for the resident bitmapped fonts, including outline, shadow, triple wide, quadruple wide, emphasized, double strike, underlining, subscript and superscript.

* A rear friction feed and straight bottom friction feed, which enables printing on card stock and other paper stocks that require a straight paper path.

* An integrated stand that puts the printer in a vertical position to enable use of an optional 30-sheet capacity single bin auto sheet feeder for increased productivity on longer printing jobs.

* 24 KB of memory.

* A two-year limited warranty, twice as long as the warranty on some competitive portable printers.

"The addition of the StarJet SJ-48 to the Star Micronics product line makes Star the first major manufacturer to offer a complete line of dot matrix, laser and portable ink jet printers, specially designed to meet the printing needs of businesses, home offices and travelers," notes Mr.Bailer.

For further information on Star printers, call (800) 447-4700.

Star Micronics America, Inc.

420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 2702, New York, NY 10170

(212) 986-6770 Fax (212) 286-9063


CAM-PC 24 MIPS Hdwr Accelerator
Automatrix, Inc.  has recently introduced CAM-PC, a 24 MIPS cellular automata machine for the IBM-PC/XT/AT and compatible computers.  CAM-PC is a modular, single-board, hardware accelerator for cellular automata applications.  Up to 8 boards can be accomodated in a single host with the current software.

CAM-PC is a superset of the original CAM-6.  The CAM-PC hardware supports 16-bit rule tables, Moore, Vonn-Neuman and Margolus neighborhoods.  In addition, edge and depth glueing hardware allow modeling flexibility and expansion.  A programmable hardware design provides for future enhancements via firmware upgrades.  The board includes its own video controller to drive a color TTL monitor directly.

A single board "package" which includes CAM-FORTH--a run-time and application development environment--the textbook "Cellular Automata Machines:  A New Environment for Modeling", a 272 pg User's manual, cables and dozens of sample experiments (including all from the textbook) is available for $1950.

Automatrix, Inc.,  P.O. Box 196, Rexford, NY 12148


Spreadsheet UltraGraphics
Intex Solutions, Inc., the leading publisher and reseller of spreadsheet enhancement products, announced the first spreadsheet add-in to offer graphing capabilities for both the DOS and WINDOWS environments. The new product, UltraGraphics, provides Lotus 1-2-3, Quattro Pro and Excel spreadsheet users with over 10 unique graph styles. Many of the graphs, such as XYZ scattergraphs, are not found in any of the popular spreadsheet programs available today.

This fully menu-driven program produces presentation-quality graphs and is very flexible. Users can easily graph any amount of data, choose the graph style that best represents their specific data, and combine elements of color and design. UltraGraphics normally lists at $245, but polished graphs are just seconds away, at an introductory price of $220, plus $5 shipping, through April 30, 1992.

UltraGraphics' distinct graph styles help users to visually present their ideas in powerful and innovative ways. Choices include XYZ scattergraphs, contour graphs, dual X axes graphs, 3-D bar and line graphs, and more. Whatever the spreadsheet, UltraGraphics makes users' data easier to analyze and understand.

UltraGraphics Offers Powerful New Options

The programs' advanced features allow users to rotate graphs in up to 25 different angles, adjust the color and size of all graph elements, and plot up to 15 separate data ranges. In fact, there are no limitations on the number of columns and rows that can be plotted, so users can plot as much data as they desire. What's more, users can save graphs in any of the industry-standard PIC, PCX and WMF formats, making it possible to integrate the graphs into other compatible applications, or even directly into their WYSIWYG worksheet.

"Spreadsheet users will find UltraGraphics simple to use. All they need to do is select a graph style, highlight a range of worksheet data and view the graph. With just a few keystrokes, their visual is produced. And, since there is never any need to rekey or import data, users will save time too," said Marjorie Smith, Product Manager at Intex. "The special effects features, like 3-D rotation, give even familiar graphs a whole new impact."

Compatibility/Pricing

UltraGraphics has two versions. One version is for DOS and supports Lotus 1-2-3 Release 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.1+ and Quattro Pro. The second version is for Windows and supports: 1-2-3 for Windows and Excel. The new program lists for $245, but is available now through April 30, 1992, at an introductory price of only $220, plus $5 shipping. For further information, please contact Marjorie Smith or Jim Wilner at Intex Solutions, Inc., 35 Highland Circle, Needham, MA 02194, or call (617) 449-6222.


DoMark Virtual Reality Studio
One of the first design utilities featuring the dynamics of "virtual reality" has finally arrived on North American shores as Virtual Reality Studio. Published by U.K. based DoMark, and distributed by Accolade under an exclusive North American distribution agreement, this critically acclaimed program makes it possible to easily generate an entire three-dimensional world, then move smoothly from location to location while fully exploring the terrain around you from any angle. Virtual Reality Studio is available now for IBM PC compatible and Amiga computers. Each version carries a suggested retail price of $89.95.

Virtual Reality Studio is one of the few programs to have been awarded a rare 100% rating from the popular European magazine, YC. And according to Ace Magazine, "(Virtual Reality Studio) could be the most impressive game creation utility ever released." The designers of the product, Incentive Software, make their Freescape 3-D graphics system available to the public for the first time making it possible to create games as good as those in the stores, or to use Virtual Reality Studio for more serious applications such as designing a house, a car, or an airplane down to the smallest detail.

"Most 3-D object generators are time consuming and require laborious work to create even the simplest of shapes," explained Caryn Mical, Director of U.S. Operations for DoMark. "With Virtual Reality Studio, all of the tools and commands for creating 3-D worlds and objects are found on a simple, icon-driven control panel."

Basic to complex objects are created from a small collection of building blocks that call be stretched, shrunk, or rotated in any direction. Objects can then be copied, animated and colored using a full color palette that uses a method of dithering which expands it to 256 color- shades, including a clear color for creating invisible force fields.

Once you create your environment, you can manipulate it with the simple Freescape Control Language by applying a set of conditions to the entire world or to specific objects or areas. "These are the key commands that create the virtual reality environment," noted Mical. She explained that objects can be defined as sensors, which can detect the presence of the user. "You tell the computer how to respond to the user's actions, such as opening doors for him, which he can literally walk through into a completely new environment," Mical suggested.

Depending on what you create, your world can contain several different environments to explore. For instance, a village has houses, each house has rooms, rooms have furniture, a chest of drawers has compartments, and compartments can have secret boxes. "With Virtual Reality Studio, you can create them all and explore them all, from any angle, down to the tiniest detail," said Mical.

With the press of a button, you'll decide whether to walk or fly through your environment - look up, down or around a corner. All of the commands are explained in an easy to understand manual, and a video tutorial contained in the box provides an entertaining introduction to the powers of Virtual Reality Studio.

Key features of Virtual Reality Studio include on-screen design, allowing you to see the results of your actions as soon as you complete them. Additionally, anything you create will run independently of the Virtual Reality Studio program. "You can create an adventure game, and give a copy to challenge all your friends, or you can create a complete lay-out of your home and give tours to friends who live hundreds of miles away," suggested Mical. "All it takes is inspiration, and you can create anything you want with Virtual Reality Studio."


NIGHT-OFF Remote Power Control
Western Telematic Inc. (WTI) introduced a new PC-activated power switch called NIGHT-OFF.  This new device eliminates the need for individuals to wait, usually during late or inconvenient hours, until a back-up is completed or modem/fax transmissions are concluded, before turning off their computer and peripherals.

Night-Off enables IBM PC or compatible users to shut-down both PC and peripherals with either a pre-set time schedule or a DOS command-line utility.  The user simply enters a "shut-off" DOS command at the end of a batch file when a modem or fax transmission is completed.  Or the user can designate the desired day and time for shut-down with NlGHT-OFF's supplied time-select software.  Night-Off also can be configured to turn on or off, any equipment powered by 120  VAC.

"Night-Off was developed because of inquiries we were getting about this particular time/shut-down problem," stated company president David L. Morrison.  "PC users had expressed their frustration at having to wait for long periods of time to turn off their equipment when they were performing a daily work back-up before going home.  There was such a demand for a solution to this inconvenience, we decided to design a device that would automatically shut down the PC and peripheral after whatever job they were performing was concluded -- eliminating the need for the operator to be present."

Night-Off is different from other computer power switches, because it comes with its own time-select software, making it easy for the user to designate the day and time for shut-down.  Installation involves a simple hook-up between the PC's serial port and the Night-Off switch.  Night-Off provides a cable with a pass-through serial connector that eliminates forfeiting a serial port.  Computer and peripherals are then plugged into Night-Off's switched AC outlets, and the shut-down days and times are entered on the PC-installed time-select software.

Night-Off has built-in surge suppression for equipment and data protection. The complete Night-Off package includes time-select software, the control cable and remote on/off switch.  The suggested retail price for Night-Off is $159.00 and will be available in January 1992 from Western Telematic.

Western Telematic Inc., headquartered in Irvine, California designs, manufactures and markets data communication equipment including peripheral sharing devices, multiplexers, security modems, data PBX and code activated switches and pollable data collection devices.

Western Telematic Inc, 5 Sterling, Irvine, CA 92718

1-800-854-7226   714-586-9950


IdeaFisher for Macintosh V2.0
Marsh Fisher, chairman and founder of Irvine, California based Fisher Idea Systems, Inc., has announced that the Apple Macintosh Version 2.0 of the firm's innovative software, IdeaFisher, is now shipping.

Among the upgrade highlights is a completely revised QBank database that has been expanded to 5,970 questions from the original 3,000. The improvement in writing style and organization will greatly enhance the user's ability to define the task at hand.

Based upon user input, the refined interface offers:

-User custom configuration of the font, style, size and placement of each window within the program. This information is saved in a preference type file, allowing user design of the working environment.

-Improved functionality of the EditQBank application for personal question modules.

The upgrade is backward and System 7 compatible.

Complete with revised and expanded program documentation, Version 2.0 is priced at $99. The upgrade is free to users (with proof of purchase) who purchased IdeaFisher since July 1, 1991.

For further information regarding IdeaFisher, contact Fisher Idea Systems, Inc. at (800) 289-4332, or, (714) 474-8111.


PC Globe to use Etak Maps/Modules
PC Globe, Inc., the worldwide leader in desktop geography, has signed a contract with Etak, Inc. of Menlo Park, California to use Etak maps and associated Etak programming modules in a new geography software product.

Using Etak technology and digital maps, PC Globe plans to develop a unique geography tool. It will be officially introduced by PC Globe at the June 1992 Consumer Electronics Show, and is scheduled to ship shortly afterwards.

"The quality and detail of Etak maps combined with PC Globe's established ability to create outstanding interfaces will result in a very sophisticated yet easy-to-use geography program," said Dr. Gilbert S. Daniels, President and CEO of PC Globe, Inc. "I see the signing of this contract as a very important step in the growth of an already rapidly growing company."

Founded in 1983, Etak, Inc. is the leading provider of electronic road maps and application development tools for the retrieval and display of maps. Innovations by Etak have set industry benchmarks for speed, accuracy and compact design. Applications range from consumer products and driver information systems to fleet management. Etak is a division of News Corporation of America.

A privately owned company, PC Globe, Inc. is the publisher of such popular software programs as PC Globe, PC USA, MacGlobe and BushBuck: Global Treasure Hunter.

PC Globe can be reached at:  800-255-2789 or 602-730-9000


Sleuthing with Windows
At the Bellevue, Wash., police department, detectives are trading pencils and notepads for laptop PCs running Microsoft Windows graphical environment version 3.0.

Lieutenant William Ferguson and the white-collar crime unit use Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel for Windows version 3.0 both in the office and in the field, to track and report investigations into fraud embezzlement, forgery and financial scams.

Back at headquarters, detectives use a Windows-based program called Compusketch for sketching suspects. Officers interview crime witnesses for information about a suspect's appearance, eye color, hair style, head shape, and so forth, and enter the data into the program. Compusketch generates a rough composite onscreen, which can be modified using a special mouse and menu tools, after being reviewed by witnesses. "Compusketch under the Windows graphical environment makes it much faster and easier to produce composite drawings," said Ferguson. "We can create and print a sketch in half an hour, then distribute it quickly, before witness memory fades."

The department hopes to install Compusketch on the laptops as well, so that officers in mobile crime investigation vans can take composite descriptions at the scene. "We will be able to diagram the crime scene on the spot with a drawing program, and then do a lot of our reporting right from the field using Microsoft Word," said Ferguson. "That means we can put together a search warrant and fax it or modem it to the judge right away. When it's approved, we can get right to work. That saves a lot of time."

Ferguson uses Microsoft Word for Windows to create macros for such routine tasks as generating case status letters to crime victims. With Microsoft Excel for Windows, he produces statistical and budget reports that include pie charts to show how the unit's time is divided among the various crime categories. Reports and charts are linked via dynamic data exchange (DDE) for automatic, last-minute updates.

"We've gained tremendous productivity since we began using the laptops with Windows," said Ferguson. "The Word for Windows macros help us do the routine word processing tasks, and it's easy to generate reports by loading statistical data from the mainframe into our Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. The way the programs can talk to each other is invaluable, and because the Windows environment is so graphical, I can put together a quick presentation with DDE and automatic charting. As they say, that picture's worth a thousand words."


Skyline/E Ethernet Network Mgmt
The AG Group announced Skyline/E, a new software product for Ethernet network managers.  Skyline/E provides managers of mixed vendor, multiple-protocol networks with a graphic history, of Ethernet network traffic and utilization in the form of a skyline chart.  For any time period represented, Skyline will display, with point-and-click simplicity, details about network utilization in the aggregate as well as by node.

Skyline/E is the only Macintosh-based multiple-protocol network analysis tool which provides an historical overview of traffic patterns.  The variety of views provided by Skyline/E assists network managers in their efforts to troubleshoot and debug networks.  In addition, the product simplifies proactive network management by providing information for optimizing existing hardware and planning for future expansion.

Skyline/E delivers the history at a glance that network managers need before they invest the time and energy in lower-level protocol analysis," said Mahboud Zabetian, Vice President of Research and Development at The AG Group, Inc.  "It's a nice introduction to network traffic in visual form and a powerful overview tool which can help pinpoint areas for further investigation."

Where Skyline/E Fits In The Network Manager's Toolkit Skyline/E provides a network traffic flow overview.  The product is designed to complement lower-level protocol analyzers like The AG Group's EtherPeek, which allow the capture and subsequent inspection of individual data packets. Typically, a network manager would use

Skyline/E as a front line, understanding baseline utilization, looking for peaks and valleys in network flow, and determining stress points over time. During periods of performance degradation, the network manager can understand the makeup of traffic, including the protocols in use and the nodes creating the traffic, and understand how to optimize the network.  If a problem persists or cannot be solved by changing user habits or a configuration, the network manager can use EtherPeek to capture data packets in their entirety over shorter time periods and perform lower level troubleshooting.

How Skyline/E Works

Skyline/E captures and stores data about network traffic over extended periods.  The product's utility is derived from the flexibility provided in its ability to display a large variety of "cuts" at this data.  A network manager can focus in on specific time periods and examine changes over short or extended periods.

Skyline/E is designed to provide a great deal of information visually.  The main window shows a histogram-type chart, each bar representing network utilization over a time period ranging from 1 second to hours or even days. The bars may be assigned varying colors, depending on the level of traffic represented.  For instance, low levels of utilization can be represented in green while dangerously high levels can be shown in red.  The colors and corresponding levels of utilization they represent are set by the user.

A number of secondary windows provide detail on a specific time period in the main window.  Double-clicking on a bar in the main window instructs Skyline/E to detail the traffic in that time period by node (transmission and destination as a percentage of overall network traffic) and protocol (traffic by protocol type as a percentage of network traffic).

Since Skyline/E is designed to monitor the network for extended periods, alarm functions are built in.  On the appearance of a new or unknown node, new or unknown protocol, or the violation of a maximum or minimum threshold, Skyline/E will sound an audible and/or visual alert.  Threshold alarms are especially useful for proactive network managers.

The Technology Underlying Skyline/E Skyline/E is based on two technological foundations.  The first is the ability to override the drivers which normally govern the Ethernet card connection between the Macintosh and the network wire.  Second, Skyline/E contains a series of complex instructions for the Macintosh memory buffer which allow it to capture and store data over time.  As data is accumulated, it is swapped to disk without interfering with data capture.  The length of a capture is limited only by the amount of disk space allocated to storing the data.  Finally, to facilitate record-keeping and data analysis, data written to disk is kept in a single file for each Skyline/E session.  So, a network manager could save a month-long capture tile entitled, "January, 1992", or a quarter-long file entitled, "Q1, 1992".

Pricing and Availability

Skyline/E will be available March 2,1992.  The product lists in the U.S. for $695.  All AG Group products include free telephone support.

Annual Service Contracts for Skyline/E will be available directly from The AG Group for $105.  These contracts provide priority technical support, free product upgrades and updates, regular "TechTips" and "Node News" mailings and more.  Annual Service Contracts are sold by The AG Group directly.

Skyline/E will be sold individually and in bundles with other AG Group products.  Pricing and bundle contents will be determined later.

The AG Group

2540 Camino Diablo, Suite 202, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

(510) 937-7900.  FAX (510) 937-2479


Toshiba T2200SX with 80MB HDD
The Computer Systems Division of Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc. (TAIS) today announced that its award-winning T2200SX notebook computer is now available with an 80MB hard disk drive.  Currently shipping throughout Toshiba's national dealer network, the notebook has a suggested retail price of $4,599.

"We have taken an excellent product and made it even better by offering the maximum storage capacity for notebook computers.  This new option further strengthens Toshiba's leadership position by providing business professionals with the most advanced technology available," said Rich Geruson, vice president of marketing.

The T2200SX features a high-performance 20MHz 386SX microprocessor, 2MB RAM (expandable up to 10MB), a 9.5-inch diagonal 640 x 480 high resolution display, a 15mm-thick 1.44MB 3.5-inch diskette drive and an option of a 40MB, 60MB or 80MB hard disk drive in a state-of-the-art 5.5 pound notebook.  The T2200SX offers exceptional performance and capabilities for a wide range of business applications.


Norick Paperless Office
Norick's Paperless Office, a complete, fully-integratable software solution that virtually eliminates the need to store or send paper documents in an office or home computing environment, is now available from Norick Software, Inc.

Norick's Paperless Office combines document imaging with on-line FAX sending/ receiving, an inter-office Quick Note system, on-line Memo Pads, advanced document search, viewing and manipulation capabilities, and more.

Norick's Paperless Office creates a seamless computing environment that enables your IBM (or compatible) PC to handle all the paper-related chores that take up so much of the average day:  filing or retrieving documents, making trips to and from the fax machine, delivering messages, and organizing your daily tasks.  Thus, Norick's Paperless Office dramatically increases the productivity and usefulness of every PC in your home or office system.

Norick's Paperless Office gives you the power to store and access both scanned paper documents and/or "live" electronic documents in the same file folder, such as:  faxes, spreadsheets, word processing, database information, and many other types of documents.

When it's time to retrieve a document, Norick's Paperless Office uses several types of search capabilities to put every document in every file within easy reach.  Each scanned document is assigned multiple cross-references:  system date, origin date, document ID number and a user-defined document description.  In addition, the user attaches file cabinet, drawer and folder descriptions to each document.  For maximum viewing flexibility, you can manipulate scanned documents using Rotate, Zoom, Pan and Invert options.

Norick's Paperless Office can be implemented in two ways.  First, it can be installed under your existing environment (DOS shell, DESQview, Windows, etc.).  Second, because Norick's Paperless Office contains its own shell architecture, it can serve as the integrating environment itself Through a personal menu system, Norick's Paperless Office gives each user instant access to a variety of DOS-based programs via user-defined paths and command line calls - all without leaving the system.

Letters and spreadsheets created with your favorite third-party software are easily imported into Norick's Paperless Office.  Scanned images can be recalled and faxed to another location, shared with others through an exclusive In-Basket feature, electronically filed, or printed.

Norick's Paperless Office is designed to run on the DOS-based hardware already in place in your home or office.  All that is required is a PC with VGA capability, a reasonable amount of storage space, and a document scanner.  For optimum performance, PC fax capability and a laser or dot-matrix printer are recommended.  Thus, Norick's Paperless Office costs much less than hardware-based systems, putting it within reach of every small and medium-size business, as well as personal/home offices.

Norick's Paperless Office is mouse-compatible, and works with any DOS compatible magnetic or optical storage device (including the optical juke box).  Norick's Paperless Office is compatible with most popular laser and dot-matrix printers.

Norick's Paperless Office is priced at $249 for the single user version, and $495 for the 5-user network version.  Additional network 5- and 10-packs are also available.

Norick's Paperless Office comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and is available directly from Norick Software, Inc.

Norick Software, Inc.

5400 N.W.  Grand Blvd., Suite 450, Oklahoma City, OK, 73112.

(800) 527-5764,  (405) 947-7560,  FAX: (405) 946-7559.


EDEN Enhanced Dev Environment
Multiple project and team development using Whitewater's Actor language has become much simpler with the introduction today of ProjectBrowser and the Enhanced Development Environment (EDEN) by Tempus Software and Hatchett Associates.  These are the tools many have been waiting for to allow organizing and managing code developed for multiple projects.

EDEN and ProjectBrowser support the organization of work in a multi-level directory structure.  By separating each project's code and resources, control and protection of work is increased.  Since the organization is hierarchical, access to common code is shared by all projects.  Integration of future Actor language updates also becomes much easier since this structure eliminates the need to directly modify the original Actor files.

"I think all developers will appreciate the benefits of EDEN and ProjectBrowser," says Mark Achler, president of The Whitewater Group.  "I'm pleased with the way they complement the power of Actor."

EDEN modifies and extends the Actor programming environment.  Access to source files in the hierarchical directory structure is provided, along with the ability to distribute class source code across the different levels.  Other features include method time stamping, tracking of dependant source files, notification and loading of changed files, and automatic generation of load files.  The features of EDEN are seamlessly integrated into Actor's browsers and menus.  EDEN3 is required for Actor 3.1 and 3.2, and EDEN4 for Actor 4.0.

While EDEN allows the distribution and separation of work, ProjectBrowser provides control over the entire development directory structure. ProjectBrowser is a stand-alone Windows application whose convenient interface allows perusal and maintenance of project directories, source, image and executable files.  This includes such features as source file editing, image creation, and resource compiling.  Its ability to search files in any combination of directories for text or methods, lets programmers easily locate code for reuse or copying to the clipboard. ProjectBrowser works with all versions of Actor.

ProjectBrowser and EDEN are available directly from Tempus Software.  To introduce users to its abilities, EDEN3 and EDEN4 retail for $95 each.  The developer's package includes EDEN3, EDEN4 and the ProjectBrowser, and retails for $295 (available Dec '91).  Further information on upgrades and site licenses is available.

Tempus Software, Box 8750, Incline Village, NV 89450

(702) 831-8204


KnowledgePro Windows V2.0 (KPwin)
Knowledge Garden Inc.  announced its KnowledgePro Windows V2.0 (KPWin) visual object-oriented programming environment for Windows.  The new version adds a comprehensive set of visual design tools, simplified access to dynamic link libraries, and full support for the Windows Multimedia Extensions, making it the most robust and flexible environment for developing Windows applications.  Knowledge Garden also announced a toolkit to provide real-time control of motion video using the Super VideoWindows board from New Media Graphics Inc.

Named Best of 1990 by PC Magazine, KnowledgePro Windows is an integrated environment for rapid development of Windows applications.  KPWin, as the product has become known, offers the unique combination of a full-featured object-oriented language, hypertext and expert system functions, multimedia support, and ease of use by the novice programmer.

"The new version is a major milestone in Windows programming," according to president John Slade.  "Its new visual design tools allow non-programmers to generate code interactively, edit the code, and then read it back into the design tool again.  I don't know of another tool that offers this two-way street for interactive development.  Users of the popular, easy-to-use, visual windows programming tools seem to be outgrowing them fairly quickly.  KPWin combines visual interface design and a serious underlying OOP language, for the best of both worlds.  Another very important addition is the ability to call any external DLL with simple one-line commands.

"KPWin 2.0 is richer, more flexible and, at the same time, easier to use than its competitors," Slade added.  "All the design tools included with KPWin are written in the product itself and supplied with source code.  Try writing the Visual Basic front-end in Visual Basic!  In contrast, KPWin gives the developer a huge leap toward developing his own custom programming tools."

Visual design tools A new interactive design system lets the developer point and click to select from a library of objects (combo boxes, buttons, etc.), drop them into a window, size them, and choose fonts, colors, and styles.  Designers can also now select required portions of bitmap images and identify selected regions to link to other objects.  The corresponding code is automatically generated and can be edited and pasted into programs for further editing.

Dynamic link library (DLL) support KnowledgePro Windows v.  2.0 is able to link objects to external DLLs with simple, one-line commands that provide access to all DLL functions supported by Windows.  This extends the power of KnowledgePro Windows applications while eliminating the need for C programming or the special DLL drivers required by some tools.

Multimedia Extensions The DLL support allows KnowledgePro Windows v.  2.0 to access all commands in the Microsoft Multimedia Developers Kit, including those for CD-ROM and stereo sound.  Other multimedia devices, such as motion video boards, are now supported via simple DLL hooks.

Hypertext programming help KnowledgePro Windows V2.0's new hypertext-based help facility is written using KPWin and includes an innovative "How-To" menu option that provides tips, suggestions and example code gathered from the company's customer support database.  This lets the developer learn from the questions of others and paste sample code into a program.

Over 80 new commands More than 80 commands have been added, for a total of over 300.  Improved bitmap handling allows for better combination of images and for text to be superimposed on bitmap images.  Users now have the ability to add user-defined tools on a new Customized Tools menu, size and drag Windows objects, and trap mouse-drag events.  more

Compiler directives have been added to improve performance, simplify development and add security.  KnowledgePro Windows' performance, rated as one of its strong points in comparative reviews, is further enhanced by the addition of optimization features and new commands.

KnowledgePro Windows v.  2.0 is available now, priced at $249 list.  KPWin Gold v.  2.0, which includes unlimited runtime distribution, is priced at $549.  Upgrades from earlier versions of KPWin cost $99.  For a limited time, users of KnowledgePro DOS, Knowledge Garden's character-based version, may upgrade to KPWin for $149.  Upgrades are free to KnowledgePro Windows users who purchased after Oct.  15,1991.  Educational and corporate volume discounts are also available.

Super VideoWindows Toolkit Knowledge Garden also announced the KPWin SVW Video Toolkit, an add-in toolkit that provides KnowledgePro developers with all the high-level commands necessary to control motion video in real-time, using the Super VideoWindows video overlay board from New Media Graphics Inc.  This toolkit will be available by the end of 1991, priced at $299 list.

Revelation ships KPWin-based product In a related announcement, Revelation Technologies Inc.  of New York, NY said it has shipped OpenInsight. OpenInsight integrates a custom version of KPWin with Revelation's data-independent application development environment.  This combination of technologies provides companies with the development tools to bring mainframe-class applications to the desktop in multiuser, network and client server environments.

Knowledge Garden Inc., Stony Brook Technology Center

12-8 Technology Drive, Setuaket, NY 11733

516-246-5400, fax 516-246-5452.


SPA European Swr Piracy Report
The Software Publishers Association (SPA) and the Business Software Alliance (BSA) today released the results of the most in-depth study to date on the extent of revenue loss $4.46 Billion- to software companies due to piracy by Western European personal computer software users.  The research, based on data gathered by the SPA and International Data Corporation (IDC) on software and hardware sales figures, compares results from studies on the average number of software programs utilized by computer users.  The report is similar to one issued by the SPA in August, which estimated a $2.4 Billion piracy loss in the US in 1990.

The results confirm empirical and anecdotal evidence that businesses are using significantly more software than they buy.  The results of the Western European analysis show just how large a problem piracy is for the personal computer software industry.  Among the findings:

* The amount of revenue lost to software piracy in Western Europe was $4.46 Billion in 1990, compared to $3.38 Billion in 1989 and $2.81 Billion in 1988.

* Although piracy remains a problem in the entire region, some areas are making progress in reducing the level of piracy.  In Scandinavia, software units sold per DOS machine increased from 0.52 in 1988 to 0.94 in 1990, while the ratio per Macintosh sold went from 1.28 to 2.35.  In the United Kingdom and Ireland, DOS software units sold per machine increased from 0.71 in 1988 to 0.98 in 1990, while the Macintosh figures were 1.53 in 1988 and 2.71 in 1990.

The piracy estimates are conservative, because the units of software sold is compared to the number of personal computers purchased in the same year. This disregards sales to users of older personal computers.  Assuming that some of the current year software is sold for use on older machines, the ratio of software and hardware sold would decline, thereby reflecting a much larger estimated loss of piracy.

"Software piracy remains a huge international problem for the software industry," said David Tremblay, Research Director of the SPA.  "And it is a problem of growing magnitude--our analysis for Western Europe shows that the revenue loss increased over a Billion and a half dollars from 1988 to 1990.  The increase in revenue lost to piracy alone was larger than the 1990 revenues of all but one company in the industry!"

Robert Holleyman, Managing Director of the BSA commented, "A focused anti-piracy effort in a region, for example our efforts in Italy, can have a significant effect on software piracy.  This analysis shows that, in Italy, we have raised the ratio of software units per personal computer from 0.17 in 1988 to 0.55 in 1990 for DOS, and 0.40 in 1988 to 0.53 in 1990 for Macintosh."

The Software Publishers Association is the principal trade association of the PC software industry.  Its 850 members represent virtually all of the leading publishers in the business, consumer, and education markets.  The SPA has offices in Washington, D.C.  and Paris La Defense.

The Business Software Alliance is a coalition organized in 1988 to combat software theft in international markets.  The BSA is headquartered in Washington, D.C.  and has offices in London.


Database Graphics Toolkit V3.0
Effective December 16, 1991, Version 3.0 of the popular Database Graphics Toolkit (dGT) will be shipping.  Already installed at over 1200 companies in 49 states and 32 foreign countries, dGT is fast becoming the image interface of choice for PC database users, because of its power, consistence and flexibility - with users running under 30 different languages and database management systems.

If you purchased dGT on or after September 16, 1991 you will receive an automatic update.  The company expects to finish mailing these updates by January 17, 1992.

Customers who purchased dGT before the September date may order an upgrade for $60.00 (includes postage for all U.S.  and Canadian shipments).  There is an additional $15.00 charge for a new User's Manual.  Overseas postage is $5.00 extra.  See other side for order form and features list.

Developer's Edition

The new Developer's Edition is ready for shipment.  The Developer's Edition is available to new purchasers for $590.00, which includes one complete copy of dGT (at $295), plus six Run-time Licenses.  Existing owners of dGT may purchase just the "Six-Pack" for $295.00.  This provides developers with the option to add imaging to existing applications by bundling a low-cost (under $50.00) dGT Run-time License with each copy of their application.  Additional Six-Packs are subject to generous volume discounts.

NEW FEATURES for dGT Version 3.00:

--The industry-standard VESA BIOS Extension is now supported.  Each module now tests for the presence of a VESA BIOS at initialization time -- if one is found, VESA-compliant l/O Routines are used.

--LASRTRAX can produce an image in four different sizes; large landscape, medium-size portrait, miniature portrait, and a new "tiny" portrait. LASRTRAX now uses bi-directional error-diffusion filtering methods for producing incredibly sharp and accurate hard-copy images.

--dGT has support for Intel's SatisFAXion and compatible fax boards.  The C.A.S.  specification, developed by Intel, stores incoming faxes in a form called DCX, which consists a a simple header record concatenated with a variable number of PCX images.  Using one of our Viewers or LasrTrax, it is possible to view or print multiple-page faxes.

--PHOTO and VCR have been modified to run as functions -- each returns the last keystroke entered by the user, or zero H the display has timed out. This allows development of applications which seamlessly respond to user keyboard input (If multiple images have been displayed in the same window, only the keystroke for the last image is returned).

--Three new utility routines have been added to each of the libraries; they Include CLRSC, DELAY, and VIDINT.  CLRSC will clear the screen to a specified color or attribute.  DELAY will wait the number of seconds specified on the command line.  VIDINT runs any video services interrupt (Int 1 Oh) routine.

--All of the utility routines, including BLINK, COLOR, IMGCAP, and VGA, plus the three new ones described above, are now available in linkable object form.  From within your Database application it is possible to test for presence of VGA or EGA and then invoke VCR or PHOTO depending on the results.

OUR OLD FEATURES have not been discarded:

--dGT can display or print images directly from database memo fields, thereby reducing storage requirements, conserving directory space, and enhancing security and system integrity.  This feature turns your existing database into an integrated image database.

--dGT has dynamically linked API library support for FoxPro 2.0.  The pre-linked libraries are simply added to your screen programs with the statement "SET LIBRARY TO .  .  .  ".

--PHOTO mini-viewer will project one or more reduced images over part of a text screen, in any of six window formats.  --EXHIBIT full-screen viewer resizes images to fit your screen, or "pans" oversize images using the entire video buffer.

--Fast, easy to use, and compact, our viewers can readily be shelled from any DBMS or other application (callable BlNs included for dBase, FoxBase, dBXL; PLBs for FoxPro; ADLs for Arago; LEMs for Clarion; linkable OBJs for Clipper, "C", and R:BASE, detailed instructions for Paradox and Advanced Revelation).  Viewers will run on any VGA or EGA, and support GIF, PCX, SCx, and HP PCL files in 2, 16 or 256 colors, in any size up to a full page scanned at 300 dpi.

New Headquarters

Effective Thursday, January 2, 1992 offices are being moved.  Please be sure to update your records as shown:

Blackhawk Data Corp

7234 West North Ave, Suite 411, Elmwood Park, IL 60635

Phone:  708/453-9590 Fax:  708/453-9005


Technical Data Into Presentations
New Amacom Book Divulges Secrete Formula How to Turn Technical Data Into a Presuasive Presentation

Albert Einstein was a brilliant scientist, but he also understood a central fact about the nature of communication:  "Make things simple, not simpler." Imagine if Einstein had been unable to describe his theory of relativity in terms the rest of the world could follow.  Imagine science without E=mc^2

Like Einstein, scientists and engineers today share a dilemma:  they have complex material to explain, and their presentation could be the deciding factor in either winning a contract, or project funding.  But for the majority, who have little public speaking experience or the time to prepare, there is professional help available that could mean the difference between success--or failure.

Jan D'Arcy's TECHINICALLY SPEAKING:  Proven Ways to Make Your Next Presentation a Success, AMACOM Books, January 9, 1991, $28.95, Hardcover, 240 pages) provides scientific and technical professionals with a system for researching, organizing, and delivering technical information. D'Arcy's proven ten-step approach saves presenters considerable time with their speeches, briefings, and reports, and enables them to become more efficient, effective.  and clear.  "It provides the guidelines to successfully communicate technical subjects to any audience," says Carolyn Taylor, a senior vice president of the Spartech Corporation.  It builds confidence in the ability to make a technical message understandable and deliver the desired result."

A speech consultant for twenty-five years, the author shares insights on everything-- from putting the material together.  to rehearsal, to actual delivery, D'Arcy explains how to use humor, metaphors and analogies.  how to develop a colorful, expressive voice, handle difficult situations, face a video camera, and make sure body language doesn't send out the wrong message.  Pre-podium jitters will become a thing of the past for readers who follow the book's practical advice on making fear work in their favor. And beginners will find a variety of checklists and speech writing exercises designed to help them create a truly tantalizing technical talk--the very first time!

According to Canadian futurist Frank Ogden.  knowledge is doubling every eighteen months.  Not surprisingly, the intense competition for new ideas brings problems of its own.  As D'Arcy says in her introduction: technological breakthroughs allow us to disseminate ideas with greater speed than ever before through satellite communications, fiber optics, FAX machines, and cellular phones.  Yet despite these advances, communicators are finding it increasingly difficult to capture and hold the attention of audiences." For those with the foresight to incorporate Jan D'Arcy's methods, the rewards could indeed be significant.  Albert Einstein, move over.

Jan D'Arcy has taught presentation skills to scientists and business people for 25 years and is a consultant to such major organizations as NASA, AT&T, IBM, the U.S.  Navy and Batelle.  She is also the author of Speak Without Fear, selected by Reader's Digest as one of America's top seven self-improvement recordings, and Dr.  Jack's Adventures in Video Conferencing Land.

amacom, A Division of American Management Association

135 West 50 St, New York, NY 10020


EZ-DisKlone Plus for Disk Copies
EZ-DisKlone Plus, picks up where DOS's DISKCOPY leaves off!  EZX introduces Version 4.01 of EZ-DisKlone Plus, 1-pass disk duplication software for the IBM PC and compatibles. This program solves the "floppy swappy" problem,  especially on 720K and larger floppies. Now you can duplicate DOS diskettes in just one pass on even single floppy machines. Additional copies of the same source diskette are only a key stroke away. New features include: Disk  Image   Compressed   Storage  (to  hard  disk);  Compare  disk-to-disk  and image-to-disk; pull down menu OR command line operation; disk cleaning mode; fast format mode; Automatic XMS/EMX support for faster thruput; Windows 3.0, DESQview and DOS 5/6 compliant; on-line help; and much more. Cost is $79 for one machine, $395 for 10 station/LAN license, $695 for server license, $1995 for unlimited site license.

EZX Publishing

917 Oakgrove Dr, Suite 101, Houston, TX 77058

713-280-9900


EZ-Forms DataBase V2.62
Finally, a database you can really use, with NO PROGRAMMING REQUIRED!  EZX Publishing, the originator of dedicated busines forms processing software for the PC, has released Version 2.62 of EZ-FORMS DataBase (single user and LAN  versions). This product addresses one of any business' major needs - management, manipulation and insertion of related information into various business forms. EZFDB is a sophisticated dBASE compatible, fully relational database and "form filer/creator" designed for use by database novices as well as experts. The reasonably priced LAN versions (for Novell and most other DOS based networks) make EZFDB a bona fide bargain. EZFDB is Windows 3.0, DESQview, and DOS 5.0/6.0 compliannt. Cost is $189 for single user copy with multi-system/LAN licenses available.

EZX Publishing

917 Oakgrove Dr, Suite 101, Houston, TX 77058

713-280-9900


EZ-Forms eXecutive V3.01
EZX Publishing, the originator of dedicated business forms processing software for the PC, has released Version 3.01 of EZ-Forms eXecutive (single user and LAN versions). EZFX addresses a business' needs for a form processor, form designer, and form filler software. All of this is integrated into one "EZ" to use package for the IBM PC and compatibles. With thousands of users world-wide, EZ-Forms has become a recognized industry standard since its original  introduction in 1985. EZ-Forms Executive Ver. 3.01 has many new features, including: forms up to 15 pages long, over 40 math functions, protected  fill-out-only mode (FOO), directory navigation, 500 printer support, forms management via directory sorting, quick search and annotation, and includes 100+ modifiable form templates. EZFX is a sophisticated "form filler/creator"  designed for use by novices as well as experts. The reasonably priced LAN versions (for Novell and most other DOS based networks) make EZFX a bona fide bargain. EZFX is also Windows 3.0, DESQview, and DOS 5.0/6.0 compliant. Cost is $129 for single copies with multi-system and LAN licenses available.

EZX Publishing

917 Oakgrove Dr, Suite 101, Houston, TX 77058

713-280-9900


EZ-DiskCopy PRO Disk Duplicator
EZX announces Version 3.0 of EZ-DiskCopy PRO, diskette duplication software for the IBM PC and compatibles. Quickly and Accurately mass duplicate just a few or thousands of diskettes (5.25" or 3.5") on your own computer after a  single master diskette read. You can serialize, print serialized labels,  save images on hard disk, speed optimize, etc. EZ-DiskCopy PRO, and the PC you already own can replace dedicated disk duplication hardware costing thousands of dollars! New features include: Disk/Image Comparison, proprietary Adaptive Quality Index; Synchronous and Chain (batch) copy; pull down menus; secondary adapter support; LAN support (10X+ versions); disk cleaning mode; fast format mode; Windows 3.0, DESQview and DOS 5/6 compliant; on-line help. Cost is $349 for single copies with multi-system and LAN licenses available.

EZX Publishing

917 Oakgrove Dr, Suite 101, Houston, TX 77058

713-280-9900


New Software Distributor Service
EZX Distributing announces software distribution (product fullfillment, representation and consulting services) that anyone can afford!

Now any Shareware, Commercialware, demoware, etc.ware publisher or author can have almost immediate commercial distribution and representation of their  product. The heretofore daunting task of taking a software package "commercial" has been distilled down into a simple, low cost formula.

Finally, the small to medium size software producer can tell their potential client to "call my distributor for price and availability".

EZX started this service because we kept running into expensive brick walls while  trying to push products into the mainstream commercial market. We found that all computer stores and chains would rather deal with a few solid distributors that carry multiple titles than with each individual software publisher or author. They would simply steer their customers (who asked for a specific product) to the easier and quicker sale. From a business point of view, this makes good sense. But from the point of view of the frustrated publisher who has a great (maybe even better) product, a loyal customer base, and reached a self-distribution direct  sales plateau, it seems grossly unfair. It is even more unfair to the end users since they are not really getting what they asked for.

EZX will take a client's orders via toll free voice and facsimile telephone lines, fill them and "service" them. That is, we'll store, pack, ship, provide initial startup support, process credit cards and returns, and handle all of the little details associated with the above. In essence, we can free the author to do what he or she likes to do best.

But this is only the start: Since EZX deals with thousands of "big business" and government customers, our distribution clients will get the benefits of sales they may have never been able to close with a post office box and an answering machine. For those who are already set up, EZX will be another (easier access) distribution point for their products. In essence, the distribution client has only something to gain, and nothing to loose.

Since EZX has been in business since 1986 and publishes its own proprietary line of forms processing and disk utility software, all of eZX's distribution clients will benefit from the instant name recognition and implied endorsement that comes with being listed on EZX Distributing's product line sheet and displayed in the catalog.

EZX Distributing welcomes all interested parties to call 713-280-9900 (during business hours) or 713-480-0432 (during evenings and weekends) to discuss the possibilities.

EZX Publishing

17077 Texas Ave, Box 58177, Webster, TX 77598-0080


GUI Magazine - Online & On Disk
Global Software announced that they will begin publication in January 1992 of their new GUI Magazine. GUI Magazine will be a monthly publication  detailing news about the GeoWorks and Microsoft Windows operating systems.

Some of the features of GUI Magazine will include reviews and comparisons of new products for both systems, a column devoted to online services, called Online Scan, and of course coverage of all news concerning the two operating systems.

Although customers will be able to download the text of the magazine from America Online, GEnie and CompuServe, there will also be a subscription  version available. Unlike the freely distributable version, the subscription version will have all the software reviewed in Online Scan available on the same disk.

"We saw a distinct gap in the market for GUI newsletters and magazines for  the PC said Eric Hammer, President and CEO of Global Softworks. "Although there are several excellent newsletters as well as magazines for Windows and GeoWorks, none of them cover both systems. Further, there are none available for the non-technical, but also non-novice user, so, we decided  to create one." he added.

Global Softworks also publishes several products which work with the award winning GeoWorks Ensemble operating system. They include the GeoClips clip art and GeoPaper background collections.

GUI Magazine subscriptions will be available at a price of $34.95 per year. Advertising rates are available upon request. GeoClips is priced at $19.95  for one of the two collections, or $29.95 for both. GeoPaper is priced at $24.95. Subscriptions to GUI Magazine, as well as all other Global Softworks products can be ordered direct from GLobal Softworks, or by calling  800-242-4775

Global Softworks is located at 953 East 29 St., Brooklyn, NY 11210. Their phone number is 718-951-8607. America Online users can contact them at screen name GlobalSoft.


Spectrum HoloByte - Super Tetris
Spectrum HoloByte announced release of Super Tetris for the IBM.  This super sequel of the award-winning Tetris offers a new game concept that takes advantage of the latest technology.  Although more challenging, Super Tetris retains its predecessor's easy-to-learn and hard-to-put-down nature. Super Tetris will also be available for Microsoft Windows.

The game contains the traditional falling Tetris squares, which the player must position to form horizontal lines, and also presents some new challenges for Tetris addicts.  The Super Tetris playing area is a deep "pit" that is partially full of water.  The underwater section of the pit is full of Tetris pieces and hidden "treasures" when the game begins.  The object is to dear the entire pit.  As new pieces fall from the top, the player must maneuver them so that they fit with the existing blocks to form horizontal lines.  When a line of 10 squares is formed, points are awarded and the line disappears; however, only lines formed below the water will help you clear the pit.  Once the player removes all the lines below the water level, he advances to the next level.

The goal in Super Tetris may seem simple enough, but it's not easy. Players are only allotted a certain number of pieces with which to clear the pit, but they can earn more pieces by completing lines or dropping bombs.  After completing a line, the player receives a special bomb piece that "blows up" and destroys any piece it touches.  The more lines formed at once, the bigger the bomb becomes.  Use the bombs to dig the way to the bottom of the pit, erase previously misplaced pieces or obtain "treasure squares.

Various treasure squares are buried within the pit.  Exploding bombs on the treasures affect gameplay in different ways.  One may add 10 extra pieces to use while clearing the pit, another may change the next falling piece to a bomb and others may turn into bubbles that float upward, leaving squares behind or dissolving those in the way.

Russian theme music and beautiful graphics depicting scenes from the Moscow Circus enhance each level of play.  The Super Tetris music is the result of the combined efforts of composer Ed Bogas of San Francisco and Spectrum HoloByte's sound engineer, Paul Mogg.  Spectrum HoloByte artist Louis Sremac painted all the circus scenes with watercolors.  The Windows version contains 256-color, 640x480 high-resolution graphics.

Besides single-player mode, Super Tetris features cooperative, competitive and head-to-head play.  In the head-to-head mode, when one player completes a line, extra unwanted blocks are sent to the other player's pit.

Super Tetris requires an IBM PC/Compatible or Tandy 1000, 640K RAM, one 5.25" or 3.5" disk drive and supports CGA, Hercules card, Tandy 1000 for 16-color, EGA 16-color or VGA 256-color mode graphics.  It also supports Ad Lib, Sound Blaster or Roland cards and Null-modem serial cable or Novell network for head-to-head play.

Spectrum HoloByte, 2061 CHALLENGER DR, ALAMEDA CA, 94501


Mandelbrot Magic V4.0
Mandelbrot Magic is now better than ever.  Version 4.0 provides Super VGA support with higher resolutions (800x600) and 256 color support at several resolutions (320x200, 640x400, 640x480).  It also features integer math for faster fractal generation, "point and shoot" file loading, an easier zoom function and improved palette editing functions with color mixing boxes. You can now save custom palettes as well as your color and palette assignments for a slide.

The registration fee for Version 4.0 has increased to $20.00.  For a limited time, we will pay the shipping/handling fee and any sales taxes when you upgrade.  To order your copy of Version 4.0, return this card along with a check or money order for $20.00 to:

Left Coast Software, P.O. Box 160601, Cupertino, CA 95016

(408) 996-3130 or fax (408) 996-7154


Fry Reglet Electronic CADalog
Vertex Design Systems and Fry Reglet Corp announce the release of the Fry Reglet Electronic CADalog.  This is the sixteenth CADalog Vertex has produced for building product manufacturers and associations.  The Fry Reglet CADalog, free to qualified professionals, is available through Fry Reglet Corporation and its representatives.

The CADalog provides detail drawings and specification text suitable for use in construction documents, plus valuable reference material, all on floppy diskettes.  Vertex produces Electronic CADalogs for building product manufacturers and Reference CADalogs for industry associations.

Computer-Assisted Specifying

Since the majority of design professionals are using desktop computers to produce their construction documents, they are requesting -- even demanding -- building product and systems information in a computerized format. Rather than having to go to a central library of printed information which may or may not be available at the time, CADalogs allow designers and specifiers to access product information, detail drawings and specifications right at their desks, on their PCs, any time they need them.

How the CADalog Works

The Fry Reglet CADalog runs on DOS-based computers and requires no special setup or training to use.  It is a "knowledge-based" product that assists the users in selecting Fry Reglet architectural moldings and roof flashing systems that meet their project requirements.

This CADalog is the first to incorporate icon menus which enable users to visually select the molding and flashing profiles in which they are interested.  A visual "dictionary" of the curve types is included, along with minimum radii information.  Isometric drawings of factory-fabricated intersections and other conditions are also provided to help ensure a high degree of architectural quality.  Full-scale, dimensioned, sectional drawings may be easily incorporated into construction details.

The simple pull-down menu interface, which is common across all the CADalogs, makes using it extremely easy.  Specification text is output in ASCII format that can be imported into any popular word processing program; drawings are output in DXF format which can be imported into most CAD programs.  The CADalogs can be loaded onto the hard drive or used from the floppy diskette to save disk space.

AutoCAD users can access the CADalog during their drawing sessions.  Any drawings they select from the CADalog are brought directly into the drawing editor for adaptation and use.  The Vertex Detailer (V1.1) includes a menu pick that directly accesses any CADalog the user has obtained.

About Vertex

Vertex Design Systems was founded in 1987 to develop and market integrated software applications to automate the building design process.

Vertex is a registered AutoCAD developer and employs licensed architects as well as software developers.  Its principal investors include Trinity Ventures Ltd.  (a Bechtel Corporation venture capital firm), Xerox Corporation, and Indosuez Ventures.

For more information, contact Vertex Design Systems, 282 Second Street, 4th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105.  Phone (415) 957-2799; FAX (415) 957-2699.

About Fry Reglet

Fry Reglet Corporation, headquartered in Alhambra, California with a second location in Norcross, Georgia, has produced flashing systems for the building industry since 1949.  In 1961 the company introduced aluminum architectural moldings.  Fry's reputation as an innovator was affirmed in 1974 when the company developed a unique process to curve its moldings. Fry's most celebrated invention, which debuted in 1984, was the Column Collar -- the company's solution to the awkward juncture of ceiling and column.  The company most recently introduced its line the Drywall Reveal Moldings, a variety of labor-saving trims that provide clean terminations for drywall installation.

For more information on the content of the drawings and/or specifications contained in the Fry Reglet Electronic CADalog, contact Fry Reglet Corporation, 625 South Palm Avenue, Alhambra, CA 91803.  Phone (818) 289-4744; FAX (818) 289-0537.


dMILL Network Kit for Clipper V4.0
Database Software Consultants has become a division of HUPASOCO, The Human Pattern Software Company, and is now shipping the first product developed under HUPASOCO's docusoftware philosophy:  version 4.0 of the dMlLL Network Kit for Clipper.  Docusoftware products reflect a paradigm shift away from self-referential software with product-oriented documentation towards holistic products whose systems design integrates software and documentation to facilitate information processing by humans.

This $249 product is called a Kit because its 350-page manual and 35 general-purpose, all-networks subroutines give a Clipper programmer all of the tutorials, techniques, and tools necessary to rapidly design, implement, and maintain sophisticated network applications.  The dMlLL Network Kit is synergistic with all other network-oriented Clipper products and is endorsed by Buzzwords International for use with their dANALYST Gold utility.

Users have praised the tracing and debugging facilities and claimed productivity increases of 30%.  Over two dozen memvars are used to control the behavior of Kit subroutines; at 20 subroutines, the semaphore facility is one of the most comprehensive available in any language; and a set of windowed-message routines displays an application's messages in gorgeous, ergonomically-advanced (character-based) windows.

A generic version for non-Clipper xBASE dialects is in preparation.  When this version is released, the semaphore facility will permit network applications written in any two xBASE dialects to share files and records, which is not usually possible.

The dMlLL Network Kit 4.0 for Clipper costs $249 plus S&H ($7.10 U.S.A., $9.92 Canada, $27.01 Australia).  Contact Database Software Consultants at POB 8380, 2805 Dancy St., Austin, TX 78722-2317, (512) 477-3423.

USER GROUPS:  Please write, telephone, or email your requests for technical literature to distribute at your meetings.  Just give us (1) your user group's mailing address and (2) the number of copies you need.  We will send you the specified number of information sheets, one-sixth that number of demo diskettes, and one diskette for your BBS with a self-unarchiving file containing the files that comprise the demo.


Emerald to Mfg Solectron Tapes
Solectron announced that it has signed an agreement with Emerald Systems Corporation, San Diego, CA, to manufacture its complete line of tape backup systems.  Beginning this month, the systems, including quarter-inch, 4mm DAT (digital audio tape) and 8mm tape systems, plus associated software, will be assembled, tested, packaged and shipped by Solectron from its San Jose headquarters.

Solectron Corporation (NASDAQ:SLTN) is a leading independent provider of customized, integrated manufacturing services to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in the electronics industry.  Solectron was recently selected as a winner of the 1991 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award for excellence in quality management.

"This outsourcing agreement with Solectron will allow Emerald Systems to gain market advantages through faster time to market.  Moreover, it will further enhance product quality, increase cost efflciency and maintain the corporate flexibility needed for future growth," said Dale H.  Munk, Emerald Systems' chief operating officer.  "Moving our manufacturing function off-site is the next logical step in continuing to improve the company's profltability."

In addition, the turnkey solution allows Emerald Systems to focus more resources on marketing, sales and product development activities, its traditional strengths.  Mr.  Munk added that as the relationship with Solectron has been developing for several months, customers will experience no change in the delivery patterns they are accustomed to from Emerald Systems.

Ko Nishimura, Solectron's president and co-chief executive officer, said, "We are a manufacturing specialist, which dovetails closely with Emerald Systems' strategy of concentrating resources on its traditional strengths."

Emerald Systems is a supplier of fast, reliable and easy-to-use tape backup and data management systems for Novell networks.  Such systems and software are used to record and protect data stored on hard disk drives on networks.

Emerald Systems Corp.  is located at 12230 World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA 92128, phone:  619/673-2161.

Solectron provides customized manufacturing for OEMs of computer peripherals and accessories, mainframe mass storage systems, engineering workstations, and portable personal computers, as well as telecommunication, medical diagnostic, avionics, and industrial electronics.  Company services are provided on either a consignment or turnkey basis and involve strategic arrangements with customers where close interaction to meet schedules and quality requirements is necessary. Solectron's electronic assembly services primarily involve the manufacture of complex printed circuit boards using surface mount (SMT) and pin-through-hole (PTH) interconnection technologies, and the testing and assembly of electronics subsystems and systems.  Solectron also provides other manufacturing services, including flexible cable assembly, refurbishment, disk duplication and packaging services, remanufacturing, testing and board design.

Solectron Corp, 2001 Fortune Dr, San Jose, CA 95131

408-942-1943


Lotus Ships 1-2-3 for Macintosh

Initial Orders Exceed Expectations

Lotus Development Corp.  announced it has begun manufacturing and shipping Lotus 1-2-3 for Macintosh, its new 1-2-3 spreadsheet designed for Apple Macintosh personal computers.  The product will be available through resellers within two weeks.  Lotus also said 1-2-3 for Macintosh has received several first-place awards for its documentation from the Society of Technical Communicators.  1-2-3 for Macintosh combines the power of 1-2-3 with innovative features unmatched by any other Macintosh spreadsheet.

New features, such as in-cell editing, direct manipulation of worksheet elements and desktop customization, give users unprecedented power and flexibility over their work.  Also included are leading 1-2-3 innovations such as 3-D worksheets and DataLens, Lotus' data access technology.  The product provides file and macro compatibility with other versions of 1-2-3, and delivers keystroke compatibility through the 1-2-3 Classic menu.  It is also fully compatible with Apple's new System 7 operating system.

"1-2-3 for Macintosh is a great application that will set new standards for Macintosh spreadsheets," said Jim Manzi, president and CEO of Lotus.  "With this product, we're opening the door to a whole new market.  1-2-3 users now can share information across the major computing platforms, making it easier to work together."

"1-2-3 for Macintosh provides business users the best of both Macintosh and MS-DOS worlds," said Keith Fox, vice president of business markets at Apple USA.  "With this solution, business users have the proven software capabilities of Lotus and the benefits of the Macintosh platform, in addition to the ability to seamlessly share information with other computer users, regardless of whether they use Macintosh, MS-DOS or Windows."

Early Reaction from the Reseller Channel

"There's significant pent-up demand for this product," said Bob Weiler, senior vice president of Lotus' North American Business Unit.  "Initial promotions by resellers are creating a high level of excitement, and early orders have exceeded our expectations.  To succeed in the Macintosh market Lotus needs to do things differently and we're committed to making a major investment with competitive pricing and hard-hitting marketing programs."

"Our 1-2-3 for Macintosh special promotion exceeded all our expectations," said Mark Bennett, vice president of marketing at Intelligent Electronics, one of Apple's largest distributors.  "Since October 1, we've been bundling 1-2-3 for Macintosh with every Macintosh IIci and si and have sold more than 15,000 Macintosh computers to date.  The demand has been incredible. And now users will be able to redeem their 1-2-3 for Macintosh coupons at the store where they purchased their hardware." According to Judy Sims, CEO of Software Spectrum, a leading national reseller of microcomputer business software, "We believe corporate America is eagerly awaiting the arrival of this product.  1-2-3 for Macintosh is the ideal solution for corporations facing the many challenges of working in a mixed computing environment. The ability to easily share 1-2-3 files across major computing platforms brings us one step closer to true cross-platform computing."

Users' Reactions

"1-2-3 for Macintosh is a great product for all my Macintosh users," said Donald Adams, vice president for manufacturing at Armin Molding Corp.  "The competitive features and 1-2-3 file compatibility make this a much more powerful, intuitive and ergonomically efficient application than Excel.  It will be our number one choice for Macintosh users throughout the company."

"I'm very impressed with 1-2-3 for Macintosh, especially its strong presentation-graphics features and compatibility with other 1-2-3 spreadsheets," said Patricia Elste, presentation analyst, Pacific Gas Transmission.  "The majority of my work involves pulling together information that resides on both PCs and Macintoshes to create graphics. The ability to share data easily across platforms is a critical element for me."

Optimized for Macintosh

1-2-3 for Macintosh exploits the Macintosh user interface to give users one-click access to spreadsheet functions and the ability to directly manipulate worksheet elements.  It also allows users to customize their desktops with tear-off menus, menu promotion, moveable palettes, and a moveable console and status bar.  Tear-off menus, which can be torn off the main menu and positioned anywhere on the desktop, allow users to design the desktop according to their needs, while maximizing screen real estate.

Users can also easily customize the interface by "promoting," or adding frequently used number formats, font styles and macros, to menus where they can easily be applied.

1-2-3 for Macintosh is the only Macintosh spreadsheet that allows in-cell editing of text, data and formulas in a worksheet.  Text, data, graphs and drawn objects can be directly manipulated, making it easy to create, modify and move elements of a worksheet or graph.

Advanced Features and Functionality

1-2-3 for Macintosh gives users a wide range of analysis and database capabilities.  It is the only Macintosh spreadsheet to offer true 3-D worksheet capabilities for organizing, consolidating and analyzing worksheet information.

In addition, 1-2-3 for Macintosh allows users to query remote databases directly from within a worksheet.  Using Lotus' DataLens technology and Apple's Data Access Language, users can access information stored on corporate mainframes or minicomputers, regardless of data format or communications protocol.  1-2-3 for Macintosh can also directly read FoxBase and dBase database files.

1-2-3 for Macintosh also provides a rich feature set for creating presentation graphics.  Users can select from a variety of objects, such as arrows, text blocks and macro buttons, or further enhance their worksheet or graph with clip art, logos and photos.  A Style palette lets users select from a wide range of formatting tools, including 49 fill patterns, 23 lines styles, 10 thicknesses and 256 colors.  1-2-3 for Macintosh also includes Adobe Type Manager software and 13 typefaces, in addition to TrueType.

With 1-2-3 for Macintosh, users can create a variety of different graph types, including true 3-D bar, pie, line and area graphs.  Users can adjust the rotation, elevation and light source for these graphs.

1-2-3 and Excel Compatibility

1-2-3 for Macintosh provides file, macro and keystroke compatibility with other versions of 1-2-3.  The product will directly read and write 1-2-3 files from other platforms, including DOS, Windows, UNIX, VM, VMS and MVS. By hitting the "slash" key, users can bring up the 1-2-3 Classic menu, which preserves 1-2-3 users' command and keystroke knowledge, reducing training and support costs for businesses.  The product will also read and write Microsoft Excel sheet files and translate Excel macros.

Availability, Pricing and System Requirements

The Standard Edition of 1-2-3 for Macintosh will be available through resellers within two weeks for a suggested retail price of $495.  Network Server and Node Editions will be available within 30 days for $795 and $495 respectively.  The Academic Edition of 1-2-3 for Macintosh, as well as International English, French and German versions of the product, will also be available within two weeks.  In the U.S., 1-2-3 for Macintosh users automatically receive introductory toll-free product support, available any business day, 52 weeks a year, between the hours of 8:30 a.m.  and 8 p.m. EST.

Lotus is offering a $150 upgrade for licensed users of the Macintosh version of Microsoft Excel, Informix Wingz, Ashton-Tate Full Impact and Claris Resolve.  In addition, all registered Lotus Jazz users can upgrade to 1-2-3 for Macintosh for $49 through the Lotus Technology Guarantee. Registered Lotus 1-2-3 or Symphony users can upgrade to 1-2- 3 for a suggested retail price of $150.  For more information users can call 1-800-872-3387, ext.  6450.

System requirements for 1-2-3 for Macintosh include any Apple Macintosh Computer with a hard disk, 2 MB of RAM under System 6.0.4 or later; or 3 MB of RAM under System 7.0 or later.  1-2-3 for Macintosh will support Novell Netware 286, Novell Netware 386, 3COM 3+ Open, TOPS, AppleShare and DEC Pathworks.

Lotus Development Corporation (NASDAQ:LOTS), founded in 1982, develops, markets and supports business software and CD-ROM databases that help users access, analyze, communicate and share information.  The company's first product, Lotus 1-2-3, is the most popular personal computer software program in the world with more than 16 million users.  Lotus markets its broad range of products in more than 65 countries worldwide.

All prices and terms for the U.S.  only.


ERGO V1.0 Belief-Network Dev Envir
ERGO 1.0

The Belief-Network Development Environment for the Macintosh

As advertised in the Winter 1991 issue of AI Magazine, Ergo lets you use the power of the Macintosh to develop Bayesian belief networks with software as familiar as a drawing program and a spreadsheet.  A belief network is a directed acyclic graph, whose nodes are the variables of interest, and whose edges signify associations among these variables.  The semantics of belief-network inference subsume those of most rule-based systems, in that belief networks support Bayesian updating of probability distributions over "if-then" rules, as opposed to deterministic rules.  The Winter 1991 issue of AI Magazine contains several excellent introductory articles on Bayesian belief networks and probabilistic reasoning technologies.

Ergo consists of a graphical drawing environment for creating a network, a probability editor for quantifying the associations among variables, and a probability engine for querying a belief-network model.  The Ergo engine has been ported to run within Hypercard and 4th Dimension on the Mac, and within ToolBook for Microsoft Windows.  Versions of the engine are also available as C libraries for the Macintosh, MS-DOS, Microsoft Windows, and Unix operating systems.  Thus, belief-network models developed in Ergo can be embedded within a wide variety of programs to provide the intelligence required for classification, diagnosis, and constraint-satisfaction problems.

A demonstration copy of Ergo 1.0 has been posted to the info-mac archives at sumex-aim.stanford.edu.  The demonstration can be retrieved via anonymous FTP at sumex-aim.stanford.edu in the path info-mac/demo/ergo-10.hqx.  The file is a binhex'ed self-extracting archive.  If you cannot retrieve the demonstration from the info-mac archive, contact us at the address below.

Noetic Systems Inc

432 Sequoia Ave, Redwood City, CA 94061-4234

415-369-3706, fax 415-369-2804


DynaCom/OpenConnect
OpenConnect Systems and Future Soft Engineering announce the General Availability of their DynaComm/OpenConnect joint venture products which provide PC MS- Windows users, IBM 3270 and 5250 terminal emulation for TCP/IP.  With the DynaComm/OpenConnect products, TCP/IP-attached PCs running under MS-Windows 3.0 can realize a sophisticated yet simple means of communicating with IBM mainframe and midrange environments.  The DynaComm/OpenConnect products unite the powerful DynaComm user interface as a front-end with the TN protocol-based terminal emulation capabilities of OpenConnect Systems.

In announcing the availability, Catherine Kingeter, Vice President of Marketing at OpenConnect Systems, said, "The general movement of businesses and the industry to distributed computing environments, compounded by the rapid and wide acceptance of PCs and the MS-Windows interface, made the DynaComm/OpenConnect products a natural migration for our existing terminal emulation products.  The availability of the new products makes a significant addition to OpenConnect Systems' existing line of IBM 3270 and 5250 emulation products for use with a variety of UNIX(R) systems and DEC(R)/VMSTM platforms.  Future Soft Engineering's expertise with Windows 3.0 and OpenConnect Systems' Ethernet TCP/IP technology offer PC users a rich set of terminal emulation functions enhanced by a familiar user interface."

Both DynaComm/OpenConnect products reside on a PC DOS system running MS-Windows and supporting a TCP/IP protocol stack.  Available from both Future Soft and OpenConnect Systems and starting at $495.00 for a single stand alone system, the new terminal emulation products offer MS-Windows users such features as:

 *  IBM 3270 or 5250 emulation under Windows

 *  TN protocol support for TCP/IP communications

 *  Full color support

 *  Graphical keyboard mapping facility

 *  On-line HELP implemented with MS-Windows 3.0 Help Engine

 *  User-definable "flash keypad" for quick "mouse" access

    to frequently used keys

 *  PC compatible file transfer (IND$FILE)

 *  Dynamic font selection for window re-sizing

 *  Full support of the Windows Multiple Document interface

    (MDI) and Windows Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE)

 *  A comprehensive script language with over 300

    easy-to-use commands to automate tasks and create

    front-end graphical applications for communications

    sessions

The initial release of both products includes drivers for a wide variety of popular TCP/IP network software packages, including FTP Software's PC/TCP, Novell's LAN WorkPlace for DOS, Sun(R)'s PC-NFS, 3Com's 3+ Open TCP, Wollongong's WIN/TCP, Hewlett-PackardTM's HP ARPA Services for DOS and Ungermann Bass' NET/ONE TCP.  Support for other TCP/IP products will be included with future releases.

Founded in 1982, Future Soft Engineering is a privately-held corporation that develops and markets communications software for Windows 3.0, Hewlett- Packard NewWave, and the Apple Macintosh(R) graphical user environments.

Founded in 1982, OpenConnect Systems Incorporated is an IBM Business Partner offering a broad line of OpenConnect hardware and software connectivity products used in linking IBM mainframe and midrange systems with systems and devices from a variety of vendors.  OpenConnect Systems' solutions permit high-speed, bi-directional data communications between IBM host systems and computers, workstations, and terminal servers from Digital Equipment Corporation, Hewlett-Packard, Sun Microsystems(R), ApolloTM, Sequent, ConvexTM, AT&TTM, CDC, MIPSTM, IBM and others which are connected to an Ethernet TCP/IP LAN.  OpenConnect Systems' products and services are utilized by a wide range of companies including many Fortune 500.  For more information, contact Catherine Kingeter at 214/490- 4090, or write to OpenConnect Systems Incorporated, 2033 Chennault Drive, Carrollton, Texas 75006;  Phone: 214/490-4090


Rogue Wave Swr C++ Class Libraries
Rogue Wave Software, Inc.  announces that it has started shipping two new C++ class libraries, Matrix.h++ and Linpack.h++.  These new C++ class libraries extend the C++ language to include numerical algorithms that were previously available only in Fortran.

Linpack.h++ is an object-oriented C++ version of the widely used Fortran library.  Linpack.h++ includes 100% of the functionality of the Fortran version, plus much more.  Because Linpack.h++ is written in C++ it has capabilities that far exceed the Fortran version.

C++'s unique position as an extensible object-oriented language that is extremely efficient makes it one of the best languages for solving complex numerical problems.  Rogue Wave's new libraries take full advantage of C++'s strengths:  operator overloading, object-orientation, and speed. Programmer productivity is boosted because you work with whole objects that represent numerical data rather than low-level "DO" loops.  The result is fewer, but more expressive, lines of code.  But, because these libraries are based on highly-optimized low-level assembly routines, they are extremely fast, frequently faster than the equivalent Fortran.

Dr.  Thomas Keffer, President of Rogue Wave Software, Inc.  says "Matrix.h++ and Linpack.h++ both represent major milestones for the C++ and numerical communities.  Engineers, scientists, and financial analysts now have the C++ tools needed to make their job easy.  The lack of these tools has kept them chained to Fortran."

Charlie Finan of CRAY Research had this to say of Linpack.h++:  "Looks like you wrote the classes just the way I would...and my job is to write fast code!  You did it right!"

Both Matrix.h++ and Linpack.h++ are completely compatible with Rogue Wave's other C++ class libraries, Tools.h++ and Math.h++, which are accepted standards in the industry.  Matrix.h++ and Linpack.h++ are available for most machines, from MS-DOS to UNIX, including a vectorized version for the CRAY.

Matrix.h++ includes all the funtionality of Math.h++.  For example: general matrices, vectors, statistics, complex numbers, Fast Forier Transformation (FFT's), etc.  Matrix.h++ adds specialized matrix classes such as banded, symmetric, positive-definite, Hermitian, tridiagonal, etc. Because Matrix.h++ includes Math.h++, it can take advantage of Math.h++'s highly optimized low-level assembly routines, making it fast as well as graceful.

Linpack.h++ is the jewel of C++ math classes.  Linpack.h++ includes all of Matrix.h++, plus all of the functionality in the original and well- established Fortran version; including solutions of systems of equations for a variety of matrix types, solutions of over- and under-determined systems of equations, incremental least squares solvers, etc.  But, Linpack.h++ is a tru object-oriented library, not just a C version that compiles under C++:  the traditional messiness of the Fortran version has been replaced with high-level, yet efficient, objects that make code far easier to write and maintain.

The classes are available now.  Prices range from $199 to $995 for Matrix.h++ and $299 to $1195 for Linpack.h++.

Rogue Wave Software Inc.  is a software company that develops and sells high quality C++ class libraries.  Its customers include end users and C++ compiler manufacturers such as Borland, JPI, Oregon Software, Liant Software, and others.  Rogue Wave Software Inc.  is located at 1325 NW 9th Street, Corvallis, OR, 97330, (503) 754-2311.


RATIONAL C++ BOOCH COMPONENTS
Rational Consulting announced that it is distributing and supporting The C++ Booch Components, a reusable software component library.  The Booch Components are available on a variety of platforms, including IBM PC compatibles, Macintoshes, and UNIX workstations, as well as mini computers and mainframe systems.

"It is very well established that reusable software components have a big impact on reducing cost and improving software quality," said Brock Peterson, Director of Rational Consulting.  "The availability of the Booch Components will do just that by giving C++ software engineers access to high-quality, proven classes without having to recreate untested, inconsistent components for each project."

The Booch Components provide a reusable, extensible class library of structures and tools implemented and delivered in C++ source code.  Unlike Smalltalk libraries that consist of a single tree structure, the components have been implemented in a forest structure, maximizing effectiveness while minimizing overhead.  The forest structure allows users to limit their usage to a particular component or components.  For each component, a variety of storage- and concurrency-management characteristics can be selected.

The C++ Booch Components represent the second generation of a widely used and mature component library, the Ada Booch Components.  The Ada Components are documented in "Software Components with Ada," by Grady Booch.

"We were able to take full advantage of the C++ language features, such as inheritance, polymorphism, and templates in implementing the components," said Grady Booch, Director of object-oriented products for Rational.  "By adhering to the emerging C++ standards the components are portable across all conforming C++ implementations."

The components can be used with any C++ compiler that is compatible with AT&T's C++ version 3.0.  A template preprocessor is available for version 2.0 compatibility.  The templates, which are utilized by the Booch Components, allow users to create families of classes based on the library's abstract base classes.

Acting as the exclusive distributor for The C++ Booch Components, Rational also provides support and consulting on the application and extension of the library.  Rational will be setting up third-party distributors who will repackage and sell the components.

The price for the Booch Components for a CPU license for a Macintosh or IBM PC is $495, for a workstation is $695, and for a mini-computer or mainframe system is $995.  Site licenses and corporate licenses are also available. Volume and educational discounts apply.  The C++ Booch Components are currently in field test and will be available in September 1991.

Rational Consulting's mission is to assist management in the adoption and application of advanced software-engineering approaches, such as object-oriented design, to improve organizational effectiveness.  Combining a general-management perspective with experience in applying advanced software technologies to real-world software projects, Rational Consulting offers consultative problem solving, educational programs, and tools. Rational Consulting is a member of the Object Management Group.

Rational Consulting is a division of Rational.  Rational's mission is to ensure the success of customers who depend on the development and evolution of software-intensive systems.  Rational provides innovative software engineering products and services that add the greatest possible value and are of uniformly high quality.  Numerous teams of software engineers have completed projects on schedule and at lower cost using Rational's products and services.  The company is headquartered in Santa Clara, Calif., and has sales and support operations throughout the United States, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region.

Rational, 3320 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95054

(408) 496-3700


Inforum Group Conferencing
MacVONK-USA began shipping Inforum, one of the first true "groupware" products to appear in the Macintosh market.  Inforum is group conferencing software that organizes, documents and streamlines group discussions, eliminating the need for many of the meetings that take up hours of the average business person's day.

"Products like Inforum were impossible as recently as a year ago," said Jan Deruiter, president of MacVONK-USA.  "We can release Inforum now because local area networks are so common and because of System 7, which builds extremely sophisticated networking capabilities directly into the Macintosh operating system.  With more and more demands on the average executive's time--especially during a recession, when fewer people are required to do more, higher quality work--there is a pent up demand for group productivity enhancers like Inforum."

Businesses in the United States lose $37 billion per year on time wasted in meetings, according to a study conducted by Hofstra University.  Inforum provides an economical solution to this problem.  It lets 2 to 512 people brainstorm together, organize projects and make or approve decisions, all from the computers on their desks.  Users participate at their convenience, at any time and from any place, whether it's their office, their home, or any other location.  The only requirements are a Macintosh with at least 2 MB RAM, Apple's System 7 operating system, an AppleTalk network running on any media (LocalTalk, Ethernet, Token Ring, or via modem), and Inforum software.

Inforum supports up to 256 simultaneous, ongoing forums per server and does not require a dedicated Macintosh.  Any user can set up a conference, thus becoming a forum moderator.  Moderators define a forum's title, structure its discussion areas, and identify participants and their privilege levels. Users may enter comments and attach files, clipboard contents and even sound annotations.

Inforum keeps a log of conference activities which can be printed to provide an organized, complete trail of comments and contributors.  Reports are sorted chronologically or by user.

Inforum is available from MacVONK-USA, and a growing number of distributors, including Ingram Micro D and PC Micro.  The base configuration consists of server software and 5-client applications at the suggested retail price of $495.  Additional S-client application packs are available for $245.

MacVONK is also offering a free booklet called, "An Introduction to Electronic Conferencing" which examines the nature of business communications, including the types best suited for electronic replacement. The booklet explains the differences between electronic mail, bulletin board systems, and electronic conferencing.  It is available free of charge from MacVONK-USA at 313 Iona Ave., Narberth, PA 19072.  Phone:  (215) 6600606.

MacVONK-USA, based in Narberth, PA, markets and distributes business software for Macintosh users.  Designed to be "mutually supportive", each product complements others in the MacVONK line.  Products include NetOctopus, HandiWorks, P.INK SQL, KeyPlan, and LaserPlot.  MacVONK-USA is a subsidiary of MacVONK, a privately held, European corporation.


HandiWorks Integrated Swr Applic.
MacVONK began shipping HandiWorks, a $175 "all-in-one" software application for Macintosh computers that eliminates the need to switch applications or load multiple programs.  Requiring only a small amount of memory, HandiWorks combines a word processor, a spreadsheet, basic drawing and page layout tools, and an Address Manager database.  The product includes templates for commonly used office forms, as well as dictionaries for hyphenation and spell checking in English and Spanish.  Dictionaries for 10 other languages are also available.

HandiWorks opens as a blank page where "frames" of text, numbers (spreadsheets) and images can be created or imported.  Users determine the size, placement and total number of frames on each page.  Everything on the page is linked, no matter how many independent frames are in the document. Whenever data is changed, all the linked items are automatically updated.

"HandiWorks combines all the basic tools business people really use, in a way that is truly integrated, convenient, and surprisingly conservative in terms of both memory use and cost," said Piet Vonk, MacVONK cofounder.  "We traded some of the bells and whistles of a feature-laden product for the ability to run on PowerBooks and older Macs, where memory constraints are a big concern.  As a result, HandiWorks is the smallest, least expensive integrated application on the market.  No other vendor offers as much functionality for such a low price."

Macintoshes with only 1 MB RAM can run HandiWorks under System 6, the older version of Apple's operating system software.  The 2 MB RAM that comes standard on new Macintoshes are more than sufficient for running HandiWorks under System 7.  HandiWorks uses a maximum of 800K when all of its applications and features are active.  Under most circumstances, the program uses less.

HandiWorks imports and exports ASCII, Microsoft Word, WriteNow, and MacWrite files.  It also supports EPS, TIFF, PICT, PICT2, and MacPaint formats, allowing pictures to be imported from any popular drawing program and manipulated within HandiWorks.  HandiWorks can exchange files with other word processors and spreadsheets through Claris XTND filters.  A limited number of filters ship with HandiWorks.  The full collection, including cross-platform file formats, is sold separately.

HandiWorks is available now through MacVONK's sales offices in Canada and Pennsylvania.  The product is also distributed by Ingram Micro D and PC Micro.  The suggested retail price is $175.  Claris XTND and additional foreign language dictionaries are available through the same channels.

MacVONK-USA, based in Narberth, PA, markets and distributes business software for Macintosh users.  Designed to be "mutually supportive", each product complements others in the MacVONK line.  Products include NetOctopus, Inforum, P.INK SQL, KeyPlan, and LaserPlot.  MacVONK-USA is a subsidiary of MacVONK, a privately held, international corporation headquartered in Holland.  For more information contact MacVONK-USA at 313 Iona Ave., Narberth, PA 19072.  Phone:  (215) 660-0606.


DoMark MiG-29 Fulcrum
U.K.  based DoMark announced the release of MiG-29 Fulcrum, the company's first release under an exclusive North American distribution agreement with Accolade.  In what may very well be one of the last games of the Soviet Union as we know it today, MiG-29 Fulcrum is a first of its kind combat simulation featuring the Soviet Union's premier flying machine. MiG-29 Fulcrum turns the player's keyboard or joystick into a comprehensive cockpit with actual instruments and avionics.  Compute pilots will learn the finer points of flying this world renowned aircraft and embark on six dangerous and exciting missions based on real-life scenarios.  MiG-29 Fulcrum is available now for IBM PC compatible and Amiga computers.  Each version carries a suggested retail price of $49.95.

MiG-29 has been designed by Simis, a former British Aerospace flight simulation design team who has created a thrilling simulation combining unprecedented detail for one of the most realistic fl g t simulations of its kind.  Among the details are ergonimically optimized controls and an accurate modeling of high g-effects on pilots, including simulated blackouts.  John Farley, a test pilot who holds the distinction of being the first European to have flown the MiG-29, has acclaimed DoMark's MiG-29 Fulcrum as "the most realistic high 'g' flight simulator for the home computer."

Caryn Mical, Director of U.S.  Operations for DoMark added, "In MiG-29 Fulcrum, computer pilots are presented with a lot of data and a lot of options which are important for realism, but in some simulations, can be overwhelming.  The designers of MiG-29 have taken this into account and developed a Heads Up Display which has been critically acclaimed for the simple all(l easily understood manner in which it presents complex data."

In MiG-29 computer pilots become a member of the elite MiG-29 Squadron. Your objective - to be ranked number one above your squad mates.  While you can begin with ally one of the progressively more complex missions contained in the simulations the ideal path is to start with a training mission where you are taught to use the Mig-29 to its fullest.

Learn to use your weapons, dogfight, attack ground targets, sink ships and destroy hangars.  According to Mical, "Since each mission requires a different skill set, pilots must use the training mission to learn as much as possible, because there aren't any second chances in the remaining missions."

Each of the remaining solo missions take pilots to a different location. You'll fly to the Arctic for a rare chance to photograph a stranded ICBM submarine if you can fend off the Carriers which defend it.  You'll dogfight with Shenyang fighters over The Great Wall in a mission code named "Yellow Dragon," and in "White Pegasus" You'll defend yourself against SAMs and anti-aircraft guns while you attack oil refineries and oil rigs in the Middle East.  In an air-to-ground mission you'll defend the country's railroad system against terrorists.  And in the final mission, code-named "Desert Strike," all of your skills will be taxed as you engage in combat in the desert of the Mid-East and attempt to destroy a potentially deadly nuclear power plant.

To carry out these missions, the MiG-29 is equipped with a comprehensive weapons system that includes cannons, S-240 unguided rockets for use in ground attacks, AA-8 "Aphid" dogfighting missiles, heat seeking air-to-air missiles, and AS-7 "Kerry" air-to-ground heat seeking missiles.  The simulation features a unique helmet mounted sighting system that displays current weapons status and "missile" lock, freeing the pilot from having to physically point at the target to lock it up.  Extra defense against enemy aircraft includes flares to decoy heat seeking enemy missiles and chaff to confuse radar guided missiles.

Mig-29 Fulcrum features four different viewing options for a unique perspective on the action:  From outside the aircraft or from the missile you have just fired; from the enemy's perspective, or from the tower where you can fly the MiG-29 like a radio controlled aircraft.

Finally, the simulation comes with a detailed manual describing all of the functions available with the aircraft and recommendations on how best to use them for maximum ettectiveness.  Included in the package is a Quick Reference Chart and a 4-color poster containing a detailed cross section of the actual Mig-29.


NeuroWindows V2.0 DLL
Ward Systems Group, Inc.  announced Release 2.0 of NeuroWindows as well as a new software driver that allows NeuroWindows programs to take advantage of the high speed neural network processing offered by NeuroBoard, the company's hardware accelerator board.

NeuroWindows is a Dynamic Link Library (DLL) of neural network functions that allows programmers to quickly and easily incorporate neural networks into their applications.  NeuroWindows Release 2.0 adds extremely fast learning Probabilistic Neural Networks to a library that already gives the ability to build complex architectures, including recurrent networks capable of learning sequences.

Although designed for use with Microsoft's Visual Basic, NeuroWindows Release 2.0 now includes C header files for the NeuroWindows functions. NeuroWindows sells for an introductory price of $295.

A new software driver enables multiple NeuroWindows programs to run on one NeuroBoard.  The software can run as many as 10 NeuroBoards simultaneously. NeuroBoard speeds up network training time because it utilizes an AT&T RISC chip capable of processing four instructions at once.  A 256K NeuroBoard with the driver software costs $2000.  A 512K board is $2500, and a 1 MB board is $3100.  These prices assume you already have NeuroWindows software.

Ward Systems Group, Inc.

245 W.  Patrick Street, Frederick, Md., 21701

(301) 662-7950, fax (301) 662-5666.


Micro Solutions Backpack HDD
Micro Solutions announces the backpack hard disk drive, its new addition to the backpack line of no-slot peripherals.  This external hard disk unit is compatible with any PC machine that has a standard parallel port, including portables.  It requires DOS version 3.0 or higher.

The backpack drive is easy to install; plug the drive into the parallel port and run the automatic installation program.  It requires no interface card because data transfers go through the printer port.  The drive has a printer port to enable a printer or another backpack to be attached.

Two models of the hard disk are available using a 3.5 inch form factor 40MB and 100MB.  Retail pricing for the 40MB hard drive is $625.  The 100MB hard drive retails at $795.

Portable computer owners who have outgrown the capacity of their internal hard drives will want a backpack hard drive for their home or office. Persons who work with the same programs at two different locations can carry a backpack from one computer to another.  Field service personnel can carry diagnostic software updates on a backpack.

Thanks to its unique software driver, the backpack hard drive will work on all DOS versions 3.0 and higher, and is not limited to 32MB partitions under DOS 3.0.

Initial shipments of the backpack hard drive began in November 1991. Backpack tape drives and backpack diskette drives are also available.  For the location of your nearest dealer, contact Micro Solutions Computer Products, 132 W.  Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, IL 60115, 815/-756-3411.


Trantor CD-ROM Interface/Drivers
Trantor Systems, a leading SCSI hardware and software manufacturer, has announced its CD295 Universal CD-ROM driver software for the IBM PS/2 model 95 computer.

The CD295 software enables the user to connect virtually any CD-ROM drive with a SCSI interface to the model 95's included SCSI host adapter (both cached and non-cached versions).  In addition, since the CD295 is designed to operate in conjunction with IBM's ABIOS (Advanced BIOS) in the model 95, other systems incorporating ABIOS architecture can also use the CD295 software.

"The CD295 driver is superior to the CD-ROM software driver available from IBM," according to Jim Switz, Trantor's Marketing Manager.  "The IBM software supports only IBM's model 3510 CD-ROM drive, where-as our product enables the user to connect any of over 45 different models from various manufacturers, in any combination up to 7 devices simultaneously.  This not only provides better connectivity with CD-ROMs the user might already own, but allows selection of less-expensive CD-ROMs which can then be shared with other computers that don't necessarily support the 3510."

The CD295 CD-ROM driver software is available immediately from Trantor Systems at a suggested list price of $59.00.

Trantor Systems, Ltd.

5415 Randall Place, Fremont, CA 94538-3151

510-770-1400    Fax 510-770-9910


METADATA-DataConvert
METADATA Information Partners will be announcing the release of a new data conversion, migration, re-engineering and relational database design tool at the March 1992, DB/EXPO in San Francisco.  This new tool is called METADATA-DataConvert.

DataConvert allows direct conversion of data from any database design on any hardware platform to any other database design on any other platform - without any intermediate program code being generated.  Jack Myers, president of METADATA, explained that the entire process is made possible by using a new high level data model called the MetaModel.  Once the data model is developed and the source and target schemas are mapped to it, it is simply a matter of reading the source data into METADATA's proprietary DBMS and writing out any number of pre-defined records or relational tables to a target environment.  If the sources are from multiple systems, DataConvert automatically merges the data.  "By using this new method" he continued, "records, segments or entire applications can be converted much faster, and no 'throw-away' conversion code is needed or produced."

Associated with DataConvert is an optional relational database design tool. Not only can the system convert data from one database to another, but it has the capability to automatically develop a fifth normal form design in seconds.  Any number of source and target schemas or definitions of applications can be defined to DataConvert.  The system can then generate a relational database design of any selected "view".  These views can then be populated with all or portions of the source data and used for testing or performance tuning of the target database.  "Substantial changes to the database design can be made quickly and easily," Mr.  Myers added.

"One of the advantages of DataConvert is that it runs in a microcomputer environment.  This means that valuable main-frame resources are not used for the conversion.  Any number of possible database designs can be tried without impacting production scheduling", he said.  Data can be transferred between DataConvert and any other system using a communications link or a 9- track tape.

METADATA claims that any conversion can be accomplished in a fraction of the time used by any other current method.

METADATA Information Partners

4647 Long Beach Blvd., Suite C4, Long Beach, CA 90805-6976

(213) 988-1338    fax 213-988-1315]


GFA-BASIC Database Interface
GFA Software Technologies, Inc.  announced a database interface that provides users of GFA-BASIC with the ability to develop programs that access and update dBASE III/IV files.  GFA-BASIC is the first Windows-based programming language to feature direct access to a database by including the functions necessary for inputting and outputting data.  Most Windows development languages provide database access through third-party DLLs which typically cost $300-400 and require a programmer to write code for data input and output.

GFA's dBASE Interface combines speed, a graphical user interface (GUI), and the powerful programming capabilities of GFA-BASIC with the advantage of maintaining records in a database.  Users can develop business, financial, scientific and other applications that rely on data stored and maintained in a database format, but require complex mathematical and statistical computations, access to COM ports, sophisticated graphics, or other capabilities typically not available in a database programming language.

Functions contained within the interface eliminate the need for a programmer to have to write the code required for reading and writing database information through a DLL.  Functions included with GFA's dBASE Interface provide for updating, deleting, and searching for database records in addition to reading and writing.  Records can be accessed in any sequential order or randomly accessed by tables.  Field values can be retrieved and updated and new records appended to an existing file.  In multi-user applications, record locking can be used to maintain the integrity of the data where many nodes of a local area network are accessing and updating a common database.

To facilitate the development of forms for data entry, GFA-BASIC features a visual dialog box editor.  A programmer is able to quickly create a form using pull-down menus to select dialog boxes, check boxes, push buttons, and other options and the mouse to size and position them on the screen. Once a programmer is satisfied with the screen layout, GFA-BASIC automatically generates the code required to create the form.

Programmers are also able to take advantage of the more than 500 system, mathematical, and statistics commands and functions contained within GFA-BASIC to create applications which automatically access database information and then update the data upon completion of one or several tasks.  These functions provide programmers with an environment that is well suited for developing EIS and other applications that must process large amounts of data, consolidate the data, and use charts and graphics to present/summarize the data while providing the user with an easy-to-use graphical interface.

"The Windows environment and networked PCs provide a level of integration and automation that off-the-shelf database products cannot provide," commented Maurice Giguere, president of GFA Software Technologies.  "With the availability of our database interface a company is able to use GFA-BASIC to write state-of-the-art applications that automatically extract information from a database as well as update the database.  They are able to create programs that quickly perform complex computations, sorts, or other functions on this data while utilizing computer networks and telephone lines to automatically poll a computer or other digital device for source data.

"For example a company might develop an application that automatically dials up a computer to download sales orders; inputs the orders into a customer database; creates accounting, manufacturing, and shipping records and documentation; then provides management with summary reports as well as on-line access to this information," Giguere noted.  "An engineer will be able to write a program that automatically collects data from remote instrumentation, feeds the data into an analysis program or computer-based monitoring system, then updates the database.  The program could also automatically prepare summary tables, charts, or graphs."

Including a dBASE engine within GFA-BASIC, eliminates the need for purchasing additional DLLs or other libraries in order to access a dBASE database. "For the price of GFA-BASIC, a user gets both a powerful programming language and a DLL," Giguere pointed out. "Even if a company is not using Windows, with GFA-BASIC for MS-DOS and our new dBASE interface they will have the ability to automatically import and export information from a database."

GFA will begin shipping dBASE Interface in January and for a limited time it will be included at no additional cost with the purchase of GFA-BASIC for Windows or GFA-BASIC for MS-DOS. GFA-BASIC for Windows is priced at $295 and GFA-BASIC for MS-DOS at $235. Registered users of either version of GFA-BASIC can add the dBASE Interface at a cost of $49.95

GFA Software Technologies Inc

27 Congress St, Salem, MA 01970

508-744-0201   fax: 508-744-8041


NetWorld 92 Boston Keynote Speaker
Richard D.  Koeller, vice president of information technology at Whirlpool Corporation, will deliver the NetWorld 92 Boston keynote address, "The Role of Networking in Globalization," on February 11, at 9 a.m., at the Marriott Copley Hotel.  The keynote will open the NetWorld trade show and conference program, running from February 11-13, at the John B. Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Massachusetts.

Mr.  Koeller holds the top information systems (IS) position at Whirlpool Corporation, located in Benton Harbor, MI, supervising an IS staff of 200 people.  Mr.  Koeller is responsible for the company's information technology activities on a global basis.  He will discuss the role of networking in a corporation's globalization strategy.

"The goal of Whirlpool's IS technologies is to provide information to our customers anytime, anywhere, and in the form they require.  Achieving this mission is fundamental to Whirlpool's globalization efforts," said Mr. Koeller.  "At NetWorld Boston, I will discuss the management issues surrounding this new model of a globalized business operation and the special emphasis on networking within that model."

Whirlpool recently opened a new customer service office in Knoxville, TN. Together with the corporate office, it will incorporate an array of ISDN and LAN-based technologies with the goal of handling a projected nine million service calls annually by 1995.

Mr.  Koeller has more than 25 years of experience in the information technology business.  He joined Whirlpool Corporation in 1989, after eight years as vice president of information services at TRW, Inc.  in Cleveland, OH.  During his years at TRW, Mr.  Koeller provided information services for the company's corporate staff as well as TRW's Aircraft Components Group.  Prior to joining TRW, Mr.  Koeller served in various IT positions with International Harvester and Inland Steel Company, both located in Chicago, IL.  He earned his bachelor's degree in finance at the University of Illinois.

With more than 325 exhibitors, NetWorld Boston will occupy the entire Hynes Convention Center, and have exhibits in the adjoining Sheraton Boston Hotel.  The exhibits portion of the show will run concurrently with the NetWorld Seminar Series, featuring 81 conference sessions offering a comprehensive exploration of networking and connectivity issues.

NetWorld Boston is produced by Bruno Blenheim, Inc., a trade show management company based in Fort Lee, NJ.  Bruno Blenheim also produces the NetWorld shows in Dallas and Europe, in addition to PC EXPO in New York, PC EXPO in Chicago, UNIX EXPO, and other trade events.  The company is a subsidiary of Blenheim Group PLC, the world's leading independent producer of conferences and exhibitions with more than 250 events worldwide.


Clarion & Jensen Merger
Clarion Software and Jensen & Partners International (JPI) today announced an intent to merge the two companies.  Clarion develops database application development tools for MS-DOS microcomputers, including the Clarion Professional Developer.  JPI develops the TopSpeed family of language products that includes optimizing compilers, link technology, an interactive debugger and software development tools.  JPl's compiler/linker technology is included in Clarion Professional Developer 3.0 (scheduled to ship in the first quarter of '92).

"The merger allows us to offer the best in languages together with the best in database technology," said Bruce Barrington, Clarion chairman and chief engineer.  "Until now, the database developer's choice has been C for speed or either Clarion, dBase, Paradox or Clipper for programming ease.  Now, Clarion can offer the same speed and compactness as a C program."

The merger is the result of a two-year effort between Clarion and JPI to provide a 4GL database language integrated with optimized object code-generation.  "The merger successfully seals the relationship between the two companies and their complementary technologies," said Niels Jensen, CEO of JPI and a co-founder of Borland International.  "The integration of TopSpeed's optimizing code generator and a 4GL language will forever impact programming."

With the TopSpeed optimizing code generator included in Professional Developer 3.0, the internal computing speed of a Professional Developer program is more than 200 times faster than the same program created with FoxPro or Clipper, according to benchmark comparisons conducted by Clarion Software.  With the integration of TopSpeed's code-generation technology, Clarion Professional Developer 3.0 will offer an extremely efficient vehicle for downsizing.  Programs written with the 4GL Clarion language will execute just as fast as those written in C or other code, but will be smaller and easier to maintain.

"As a result of the merger, developers can write database applications using a 4GL language without any performance penalties," said Jensen. "With TopSpeed, the Clarion Professional Developer Version 3.0 outperforms FoxPro, Clipper, dBase and Paradox to the magnitude that it's like having -- not a 586 -- but a 1 086-based microprocessor."

The merger will be accomplished by issuing Clarion stock to JPI stockholders.  The development staff of JPI will remain in London and will be known as the TopSpeed Institute, which will continue to develop and maintain leading-edge computer language products.  Financial details of the merger were not disclosed.

Founded in 1982 and based in Pompano Beach, Fla., Clarion's line of products include the Clarion Professional Developer and the Clarion Personal Developer, a database application-development tool for non-programmers.  Personal Developer is a top-selling product that ranked number one in the database category on Ingram Micro's best seller list in Computer Reseller News in November 1991.  The product also rated seventh in sales of all software product categories on PC Magazine's "Top Fifteen Sellers at Retail" chart in its Oct.  29, 1991 issue.

Jensen & Partners International was founded in 1987 by Niels Jensen, a cofounder of Borland International, and five other former Borland developers.  TopSpeed compilers share a common code generator and run-time system, allowing users to conveniently develop multi-language applications.

The merger will ensure the continuation of the TopSpeed Consortium, an alliance of numerous companies brought together to simplify the purchasing path faced by corporate customers when purchasing a development system comprised of compilers and compatible tools.  The consortium benefits end-users by making a variety of TopSpeed-compatible tools easily available.  Corporate members of the consortium were selected by JPI based on the quality of their products.  The TopSpeed Consortium offers these tools at competitive pricing and promotes R&D relationships between the member companies.  The inclusion of Clarion technology will broaden the market of compatible products for all consortium members.

In addition to the Clarion Professional Developer and Personal Developer, Clarion Software markets the Clarion Report Writer, a tool for creating customized ad-hoc reports and queries.  Sales inquiries should be directed to:  150 East Sample Road, Pompano Beach, FL 33064; 305/785-4555 or 800/354-5444.


Foundation CASE Product Set
Andersen Consulting introduced two new components of the FOUNDATION computer aided software engineering (CASE) product set, DESIGN/1 for Windows and PLAN/1 for Windows, to become the first vendor of integrated CASE tools to support the three leading application development environments -- Windows, OS/2 and DOS.

With the announcement, Andersen Consulting extends its goal of providing customers flexibility and freedom of choice in the way they develop applications by supporting a range of development environments, operating systems and hardware platforms.  The company also announced that organizations can trade in existing DOS and OS/2 DESIGN/1 and PLAN/1 products and replace them with the new Windows versions for no additional licensing fee.

The new Windows versions of PLAN/1, a strategic planning tool, and DESIGN/1, a software analysis and design tool, leverage the powerful Windows environment for  helping organizations develop both cooperative processing and traditional mainframe-based applications.

"The new Windows products demonstrate FOUNDATION's fundamental flexibility, which not only provides customers a choice of CASE tools that span a variety of operating systems, but also facilitates their migration to new environments, such as cooperative processing," said Glover Ferguson, FOUNDATION Product Executive.  "FOUNDATION supports the widest range of hardware platforms and operating systems in the CASE industry, which we believe is critical for the heterogenous, open applications development environments of the 1990's."

MS-Windows, with an installed base of more than seven million copies, has become an increasingly popular development environment because it provides developers a natural way of organizing and working on complex, multi-faceted tasks.  Windows-based products are not only easier-to-learn and easier-to-use, but also allow developers to display and interact with data from anywhere within the application being developed.

"By providing support for Windows and other graphical user interfaces (GUls), we are encouraging wider market acceptance for the FOUNDATION CASE products as we make them easier to use and more accessible to developers," said Ferguson.

The new DESIGN/1 for Windows allows users to graphically depict application windows, reports and screens and to create analysis reports outlining attributes and definitions.  Using the new product, organizations can reuse development objects and data stored in the repository for automatically creating new windows, screens and reports and for migrating applications from mainframe to cooperative processing environments.

DESIGN/1 for Windows' new Language Translation feature provides consistent translation of windows, screens, and reports into a variety of foreign languages -- a significant capability for many organizations that increasingly are developing applications globally.

PLAN/1 for Windows features the CASE industry's first online, interactive amnity analysis capability.  Amnity analysis, also available in PLAN/1 for OS/2, identifies common groupings of data and how systems development projects can support multiple business objectives.

PLAN/1 for Windows' other unique functions include an Extendability feature for creating customized diagrams and matrices, and a Group feature for automatically grouping data within a matrix by common attributes, such as subject area or storage location.

The integrated FOUNDATION product set provides a complete systems application development framework that controls and automates the tasks necessary to build and deliver quality systems.  FOUNDATION is automated across the entire systems development life cycle, from planning and design through application development and maintenance.

The FOUNDATION DESIGN/1 products provide integrated PC/LAN-based design and analysis tools that facilitate and automate the tasks and techniques for developing both mainframe-based and cooperative processing information systems.

The FOUNDATION PLAN/1 products include integrated tools for the creation of complete and consistent strategic information plans that bring together business goals and information systems objectives.

DESIGN/1 for Windows and PLAN/1 for Windows are available immediately through Andersen Consulting's FOUNDATION direct sales organization, which has more than 151 offices worldwide.

Andersen Consulting is the leading developer of CASE software for cooperative processing and client-server applications.  The integrated FOUNDATION CASE products, which also support the development of mainframe-based information systems, support the entire software development life cycle and are among the most widely installed application development environments worldwide.

Andersen Consulting has helped organizations apply technology competitively since 1954, when it installed the first computer application for commercial use.  The firm helps clients use technology in all phases of their management activities -- strategic, operations and financial.

Anderson Consulting

Arthur Andersen & Company

69 West Washington, Chicago, IL 60602

312-580-0069


Dolphin Encrypt
To secure data from prying eyes there is a new version Dolphin Encrypt, a data encryption system for MS-DOS computers.  This is a private-key encryption system using an 8- to 60-character encryption key.

Version 1.40 of the software can encrypt multiple files (specified via the usual DOS wildcard characters) in a single operation.  There is no limit on the size, type or number of files.  Files are compressed during encryption.

Dolphin Encrypt can be run from a batch file to encrypt or decrypt multiple files in multiple subdirectories with a single command.  It also supports a script language which allows complex and conditional encryption operations. Utilities are provided to view, purge and analyze files.

There is a "recoverability" option which can be used when encrypting a file which allows the data to be recovered (but only by Dolphin Software) if the encryption key is lost.

The software is also supplied in a second version (1.60) which in addition encrypts whole floppy disks (all four common PC disk sizes are supported) and can make an encrypted copy of a disk.  This version also allows files to be encrypted either to binary or to text (for email transmission).

There is a decryption-only version sold separately which can be sent to recipients of encrypted material.

The encryption algorithm has been designed for maximum security yet is still fast (about 1 minute to encrypt 1 MB of data on a 33 Mhz 386 PC).  It produces encrypted material indistinguishable from random bytes.

Version 1.40 is priced at $145.00 and version 1.60 at $195.00.

Dolphin Software

48 Shattuck Square #147, Berkeley, CA 94704

voice mail 510-464-3009.


SPA Japanese Swr Piracy Report
The Software Publishers Association announced the results of its first study of the sales of PC software by US firms in the Japanese market.  The results show a dynamic market in which US firms have a significant stake. Twenty-two of the U.S.  industry's major firms reported aggregate sales of $116 million for the first nine months of 1991, an increase of 45% over the level in 1990.  Since Japanese firms did not participate in the study, the SPA is unable to estimate the full size of the Japanese applications software market.

Among the most interesting findings is that US firms' sales in the Japanese market are still heavily DOS based.  For the first three quarters of the year, DOS sales accounted for 85% of total sales; Windows and Macintosh applications comprised most of the balance.  By comparison, in Europe, DOS applications account for 54% of the total market.

Among the software categories, spreadsheets were by far the largest, with 58% of the US firms' applications sales of the sample.  Languages and programming tools were another 17% of the market, and relational databases comprised another 11%.  Word processors from American firms are, not surprisingly, less well represented in Japan than in other regions.

The size of the Japanese market places it among the major markets in the world.  Similar studies of the software markets of Western Europe indicate that the Japanese market is now among the largest markets for US firms. For the same first three quarters of the year, a similar group of companies reported sales of $265 million in Germany and Austria, $205 million in the UK and Ireland, and $191 million in France.

"As US trade policy focuses on the enormous trade imbalance with Japan, it is gratifying to see that the PC software industry is one of America's most successful in terms of gaining a significant position in Japan," said SPA executive director Ken Wasch.  "The recent gains of the PC software industry have not come easily, as many firms made investments years ago that are now beginning to pay off."

SPA Director of Public Policy Karen Casser added, "It is important to emphasize that the software industry can only prosper in a climate of strong intellectual property laws.  Thanks in part to the efforts of the US Government in the mid-80's, Japan has a worldclass copyright law. Nevertheless, software piracy is a major problem in Japan, as it is in markets around the world.

The SPA is the principal trade association of the PC software industry. Its 875 members represent consumer, education and business software firms in the United States and in Europe.  The SPA has offices in Washington, DC and Paris La Defense.


SalesLink Sales Force Automation
SalesLink Systems announced its comprehensive "SalesLink Solution" for sales force automation, introducing the SalesLink for Windows/ Manager's Edition that provides corporate or department-level managers a "back-end" automation system to aggregate and analyze sales reports submitted by individuals who use the "front-end" SalesLink for Windows system.

The company also announced its SalesLink for Windows/Developer's Toolkit to provide users the ability to modify and/or create menus, forms, dialog boxes, reports and databases within SalesLink for Windows.

Residing on a standalone, 386- or 486-based microcomputer, SalesLink for Windows/Manager's Edition provides a host environment accommodating data transfers to and from remote SalesLink for Windows systems running on notebook computers.

Both the Manager's Edition and the Developer's Toolkit are scheduled for April availability, the company reported.  A multi-user, LAN-based version of the SalesLink for Windows/Managers Edition will be available later in 1992.

"With the introduction of our Manager's Edition, we now provide a complete 'SalesLink Solution' that not only collects sales process information, but offers a customizable, easy-to-use system for analyzing that information," said SalesLink Systems President William N.  Holmes.

SalesLink for Windows -- introduced in March 1991 as the first comprehensive, customizable, Windows 3.0-based sales-process information system -- consistently captures the outcome of every competitive selling opportunity, and the reasons for those outcomes.  SalesLink Systems has customized and installed the system for several major corporations.

The Manager's Edition aggregates the call reports, forecasts, Competitive Action Analysis reports and expense reports of individual SalesLink users.  Further, SalesLink for Windows/Manager's Edition facilitates graphical analysis and interpretation of the aggregated data, through customized implementations of software products such as Microsoft Excel and Channel Computing Forest & Trees.  The Manager's Edition makes use of the Hewlett Packard New Wave user interface to simplify repetitive reporting requirements, reducing the creation of these reports to a single mouse-click on an icon.

SalesLink for Windows/Manager's Edition also provides department-level access to corporate databases residing on mainframe, mini, and/or other microcomputers.  SalesLink Systems can integrate all necessary communications software into the overall SalesLink Solution to ensure the proper flow of data via wide-area and local-area networks (WANs and LANs) to and from the Manager's Edition and all other remote and host computers.

SalesLink Systems will sell the Manager's Edition for $1,495 per user, plus a minimum one-time customizing fee of $1,500, covering the first 20 hours of system design and customizing services.  The company will offer the Developer's Toolkit for a fixed price of $4,995 per client company.

SalesLink Systems is a business unit of The Strategic Marketing Group, founded in 1988 to provide systems and consulting services designed to increase sales force productivity for companies engaged in business-to-business selling of complex products or services, often characterized by a lengthy sales cycle.

SalesLink Systems

Business and Technology Center

1840 Oak Ave, Evanston, IL 60201

708/866-0400


Recorded Music Mgmt System
Musicware, a software manufacturer of inventory control software for record stores, has introduced a new product, the Recorded Music Management System (RMMS) for music collectors.

Helena Swiderski, vice president of Musicware explains, "Most serious music collectors have a great love of music and have accumulated their collections over a number of years. They have seen the advent of several new musical  formats, the most significant is the recent creation of compact discs. And because of this, they have duplicated their initial record collection in the compact disc format.

The average serious music collector has over 400 titles or pieces in his collection. He has a computer in his home and is an upper income individual who purchases, on the average, 7 CDs per month. He also does not have a catalog of his entire collection and often purchases duplicate copies of  items in his collection.

With the joy of owning a music collection, often comes frustration. Many useless hours spent looking for that certain title -- perhaps during a party at home. These moments are truly frustrating to the great music lover because it's precisly at these times he could maximize the enjoyment of his collection. Having a cataloging tool at his fingertips to locate the specific track he needs at the precise instant he needs it maximizes the pleasure of a fine collection!

This is precisely why 'Musicware' has developed the RMMS to eliminate the headaches of maintaining a music collection.

RMMS lets you categorize and organize your compact discs, LPs and cassettes by just about any criteria you want: catalog number, UPC barcode, label, music type, format and date purchased. When you want to search for a particular track on a particular album, you can search by title, track, artist, composer,  conductor and year of release.

RMMS lets you print many customized reports. It also lets you print labels for your entire collection. You can code these labels numberically and keep them filed in order to locate any collection item quickly and easily.

The system also keeps track of the cost of each of the selections in your collection. RMMS will produce a report of the total investment cost of your music library.

RMMS retails for only $59.95 and is the "home version" of Musicware, the popular inventory control system used in hundreds of record retail stores today. Musicware has offices in Raleigh, NC and Sussex, England.

Musicware USA

5611 Creedmoor Rd, Suite 245, Raleigh, NC 27612

919-833-5533; fax 919-833-5528


Chem-X Molecular Software
Chemical Design is pleased to announce that the Chem-X Molecular Visualisation, Database and Computational software has been ported to run on IBM 386 and 486 PCs  under DOS. This is the first fully functional professional molecular modelling software system to be available on a PC. Previously, such software has only been available on workstations costing more than 10 times the price for equivalent  performance.

"We are very pleased with the speed of Chem-X on PCs, most of our benchmarks run faster on the 33MHz 486 than on mid-range VAX computers and approach the speed of Chem-X on several UNIX workstations", commented Keith Davies, Technical Director of Chemical Design. The availability of standard Fortran 77 compilers for PCs has significantly reduced the development time and cost of implementing a very large software package of over 250,000 lines.

The visualisation capabilities have been enriched by the development of dials and a low cost stereoviewer which uses Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) glasses. A proprietary implementation of a GKS-3D graphics library for the PC was developed which offers real-time manipulation of stick, ball-and-stick and space-filling representations of chemical structures.

Chem-X provides the chemist with menu-driven chemical structure building, display and manipulations. The menus may be customized so that the more sophisticated options are concealed from beginners but are available to professional medellers at the touch of a button. The computational capabilities of Chem-X include conformational analysis, molecular fitting and spatial analysis. There are also interfaces to quantum chemistry programs including MOPAC.

The main modules of Chem-X started shipping last October together with the stereoviewer and dials. The ChemDBS-3D database searching module and the Chapman and Hall Chemical Dictionaries will be available on the PC early in 1992.

Chem-X is widely used by more than 300 pharmaceutical, agrochemical and petrochemical companies in a range of applications from small molecular drug design to modelling catalysts, polymers and proteins. The software was originall developed on VAX computers and has subsequently been ported to run on Silicaon Graphics IRIS, IBM  RS/6000, ESV and DECstation workstations.

The minimum specification PC uses a 16MHz 386SX with co-processor, 4MB memory and 40MB hard disk although for modelling large molecules and database applications 8MB and an Intel 486 processor is preferred. Software prices start from $4000 per year for an entry level system comprising 4 of the 14 Chem-X modules. Academic discounts of up to 50% are available. Chemical Design will also be supplying PCs including SuperVGA graphics cards and monitors, dial-box and low cost stereoviewer at competitive prices.

Chemical Design Inc

200 Route 17 South, Suite 120, Mahwah, NJ 07430

201-529-3323


GeoClips Germany Distribution
Global Softworks Announces Exclusive German Distributor

Global Softworks Ltd. announced that they have signed a distribution agreement with the Geos User Club based in Aachen, West Germany, to distribute the company's GeoClips clip art collections (which work with the award winning GeoWorks Ensemble operating system) throughout Germany.

The Geos User Club (GUC) is a 2000 member strong "super user group" with members primarily in Germany, though they do have members spanning 14 other countries.  To help to pay for the costs of running the organization, GUC recently incorporated, and has begun distributing American products throughout Germany. GeoClips  is the first "big" American product they have begun distributing. "We are very excited about being the first of many Global Softworks distributors throughout the world, and we look forward to a long and healthy relationship distributing GeoClips, and other Global Softworks products in the future".  Said Geos User Club CO-President, Thomas Haberland.

Global Softworks is a small Brooklyn, NY based software publishing company. They first began showing themselves in the computer press this year, when they started publishing the GeoClips clip art collections, which work with GeoWorks. Ensemble. They also recently announced that they will begin publishing, in January, the GeoPaper collection, which also works with GeoWorks. Ensemble. "With this distribution agreement in place, and with others actively being pursued, we feel confident that we will be able to capture a  significant portion of the world market for our products".  Said Global Softworks President and CEO,  Eric Hammer.

GeoClips is sold in the United States at a price of $19.95 for one, or $29.95 for both. They will be sold in Germany at a price of 40DM for one, and 60DM for both. GeoPaper is sold in the United States at a price of $24.95. No price has been set, and a distribution agreement is still being negotiated for distribution in Germany.

Global Softworks is located at 953 E. 29st., Brooklyn, NY 11210. Their phone number is 718-951-8607. America Online users can contact them at screen name GlobalSoft. CompuServe users can contact them at UID: 75300,2615. All Global Softworks products can be ordered by calling 1-800-242-4775. The Geos User Club is located at Postfach 667, Neuhausstr. 9, 5100 Aachen, West Germany. BTX  users can contact them at: *geos#.


SKIPPER DOS Shell Update
SKIPPER is a complete DOS shell for the IBM PC and compatibles. It has several unique features: two patents are pending. The new SKIPPER is an user friendly productivity tool for novice and power users alike.

SKIPPER offers three menu options and a flexible memory scheme to accommodate applications of various sizes and complexity. It can run an application without itself occupying any memory. It can do so even within another application. Thus from SKIPPER call WORD and from within WORD call up SKIPPER to load a second application. SKIPPER will not tie up any memory for itself in the process.

SKIPPER's File Manager is one of the more powerful with the ability to integrate upto 5 external applications directly into its menu, including PKZIP & PKUNZIP with full featured option menus for each. Additionally, the ever present DOS key provides access to any application not on the menu. Built in functions provide unparalleled file search, display and print capabilities, all fully menu driven.

The SKIPPER user interface is crisp and clean, uncluttered by overlapping windows and free of distractions by pull down menus. Submenus blend into the overall landscape. SKIPPER's function keys, action keys or hot keys are on display all the time to glide the user effortlessly through the SKIPPER operations with the keyboard or the mouse.

SKIPPER v IBM DOS 1.003

Retail value:  $99.95

Now available direct from the publisher:   $59.00

S/H USA $5.00, CANADA & MEXICO $6.00 Others $10.00 California residents add sales tax.

Sigma Software Solutions

777 San Antonio Rd, Suite 58, Palo Alto, CA 94303

415-493-8804


Disney To Release Mac Titles
Walt Disney Computer Software, which has focused on MS-DOS compatible entertainment, children's and creativity software for the home, announced a new phase of expansion. Disney Software declared its intentions to release software for new platforms, including Apple Computer's Macintosh, at the Winter '92 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

"With the success we have enjoyed thus far, Disney Software is ready to expand into new areas," said Ralph Giuffre, Disney Software marketing director. "The growth of the Macintosh software market has encouraged us to develop for this segment of the industry. This expansion fits into our long term company strategy of producing quality software for several markets."

Heaven & Earth, for Buena Vista Software (see accompanying press release), will be the first software title released for the Macintosh, in the second quarter of 1992. Several more Macintosh entertainment products are scheduled for 1992. According to the Software Publishers Association, Macintosh software is now second only to MS-DOS software in the amount of software sold for the home market.

Walt Disney Computer Software is an operating unit of Disney Consumer Products, the merchandising and specialty retail group of The Walt Disney Company. Disney Software is a developer, publisher and licensor of entertainment creativity and children's software.

Walt Disney Computer Software Inc

500 South Buena Vista St, Burbank, CA 91521


FoxPro Library Construction Kit
Fox Software has shipped its Library Construction Kit for FoxPro 2.0. The package provides the tools needed to create external libraries of C and assembly language routines that can be seamlessly integrated into FoxPro in its interactive, application or executable forms, using the supplied Watcom C8.5 compiler or assembly language and the Fox source code modules included.

With the Library Construction Kit and the open architecture API introduced in FoxPro 2.0, users can extend the FoxPro) interface and language in any desired direction, add features to FoxPro that require support from DOS or third-party products, develop complex functions that perform as well as FoxPro's built-in functions, and integrate hardware and software that have their own API's.

"Our API system and the Library Construction Kit provide unmatched connection flexibility," Dr. David Fulton, Fox Software President, said. "Unlike any other implementation we've seen in the database category, FoxPro 2.0 allows developers to create libraries that can be used interchangeably with interactive FoxPro, runtime applications, and/or EXE executables. This should be very significant to the third-party library development community, since every user is a potential customer, no matter what form of FoxPro they're using."

External libraries created with the Library Construction Kit carry no royalties. Library developers are free to distribute unlimited copies of their work with no accounting to Fox.

The Library Construction Kit supplies the necessary components of the Watcom C8.5 compiler package. Included are the C compiler, linker, patch utility, help text, header files, C run-time library for DOS and a special version of the User's Guide and Library Reference.

"FoxPro 2.0 itself is written in Watcom C, and takes advantage of its many superior features. We've been using Watcom C since 1988, when we converted early versions of FoxPro to Watcom. We were astounded to find that Watcom helped our code run 15% faster overall (with some functions fully twice as fast) and saved 20% in space," noted Dr. Fulton. "Optimizing for either speed or compactness is not uncommon, but to accomplish both was quite remarkable. We haven't looked back since, and each version of Watcom C has gotten even better."

Purchasers of the Library Construction Kit are entitled to purchase the full Watcom C8.5 package. In addition to the components of the system supplied with the base Library Construction Kit, upgraders obtain Watcom's debugger, profiler, protected-Mode compiler and linker,, graphics library, Windows and OS/2 versions of the C runtime library, floating-point Emulator, MAKE utility, object code librarian and additional documentation.

The Library Construction Kit retails for $500, and is available now.

The upgrade to the full Watcom C8.5 package retails for $149.95 and is also available now directly from Fox Software.

Fox Software, 134 W South Boundary, Perrysburg, OH 43551

(419) 874-0162    Fax (419) 874-8678


USR Shared Access Modem Kits
U.S. Robotics, Inc., announced SharedAccess Modem Sharing Kit Single Port and Modem Sharing Kit Dual Port, the first products in U.S. Robotics' line of communication server devices for remote LAN access. The SharedAccess brand offers reliable, easy-to-use communications resource sharing for any size LAN in a product line to be released throughout 1992. The product will be available to the end users in the second calendar quarter.

SharedAccess Modem Sharing Kits allow for the pooling of modems on the LAN so that any user can dial out from the LAN. In addition, remote users can dial in to the LAN, through the shared modems. LAN managers using SharedAccess Modem Sharing Kits will save money by sharing one or two modems for all the users on the LAN instead of buying a modem for every desktop workstation.

The two SharedAccess Modem Sharing Kits consist of V.32bis modems, cabling, On-LAN communications software for dialing in and out of the LAN, modem sharing software for resource sharing, Off-Site communications software for remote users and documentation. SharedAccess Modem Sharing Kit Single Port includes one modem, while the Dual Port version includes two. Both products are complete, preconfigured solutions that require only five minutes to install on a LAN and virtually no on-going support by the LAN administrator.

According to Dataquest Incorporated, the number of PCs connected to LANs will virtually double within the next three years. By 1995, 79 million PCs, 57 percent of all PCs, will be connected to LANs.

Paralleling the trend toward LAN growth is an increasing movement toward telecommuting and accessing computer information remotely. Taken together these two trends portend a dramatic increase in the need to remotely access LANs. U.S. Robotics'' SharedAccess products will meet this growing market's needs.

"SharedAccess is a very exciting brand for U.S. Robotics because it is the initial step in moving U.S. Robotics to becoming a broader-based communications supplier with LAN, WAN and software products lines. SharedAccess builds on three of our key strengths as a company," said Casey Cowell, chairman and president of U.S. Robotics. "We are a leader in making high-speed communications devices that work over the public switched telephone network. We are known for our easy-to-use, low-maintenance modems. And our software division has produced especially robust and reliable software. SharedAccess allows us to integrate these strengths, and assert technological leadership in the LAN marketplace."

"Our new SharedAccess Modem Sharing Kits are a natural extension of the U.S. Robotics product line, and play to the strengths of our existing, extensive reseller base," said Jon Zakin, U.S. Robotics' executive vice president of sales and marketing. "With 30 national and regional distributors, most of which sell LANs to our 5,000 resellers throughout North America, our current distribution channel will allow us to market the SharedAccess products to LAN managers effectively."

Shared Access Modem Sharing Kit Single Port and Dual Port Versions

Designed specifically for smaller LANs with moderate communications traffic, the SharedAccess Modem Sharing Kit Single Port and Dual Port offer dial-in communications from a remote location to a LAN and dial-out communications from the LAN to remote users. The complete system consists of three separate software functions (On-LAN communications, Off-Site remote communications and modem sharing software) on a set of dual-format disks, one or two Shared Access V.32bis modems with ASL and an RS232 cable(s).

"By optimizing the hardware, software and accessories for the customer and reseller, we've made it easier for the customer to purchase, install and support modem sharing for their LANs. With SharedAccess, U.S. Robotics provides support for the entire communications system," said Zakin. "Using our expertise in wide area networking technology, specifically modems and communications software, we have created an easy-to-use, seamless remote connectivity package for the LAN communications market."

Easy to Install

Able to run as a background task on any PC on the LAN (286-AT or higher), the Shared Access Modem Sharing kits do not require a dedicated PC. A one-time, five-minute software installation makes the kits the easiest-to-set-up communication server device on the market.

Easy to Use

The Shared Access Modem Sharing Kits work transparently to the user. The Shared Access Modem Sharing Kit Single Port and Dual Port have an easy-to-use, mouse supported "point and shoot" directory interface. The kits include all the software necessary for dial-in and dial-out operations. Whether dialing in or out, the communications software functions no differently than if the modem(s) were directly attached to the individual user's PC, even though it is being shared.

Saves Money

For small LANs in large corporations and small to medium-sized companies, the Shared Access Modem Sharing Kits provide file transfer, remote information access, LAN-to-LAN connectivity and application access.

The kits save customers money on their phone bills by using high-speed V.32bis modems that offer data throughput of up to 57.6 Kbps. There are additional savings derived by sharing one or two modems for all the users on the LAN. They eliminate the need to buy one modem for every PC on the LAN.

All Shared Access modems are compatible with the popular AT command set, and with CCITT standards for asynchronous communications from 300 bps on up.

Shared Access Modem Sharing Kit Single Port version (one modem) is priced at $995. The Dual Port version (two modems) is priced at $1595. A LAN-wide license for the Shared Access On-LAN communications software is included with every Modem Sharing Kit. As a special introductory offer, the single port version will come with one copy of the Shared Access Off-Site remote communications software, while the dual port version will come with two copies. Additional copies of the Shared Access Off-Site communications software are available at $59 each.

U.S. Robotics, Inc.

8100 North McCormick Blvd. Skokie, IL 60076

708/982-5010


NetNews/CD Includes USENET News
Sterling Software is proud to announce a new service, NetNews/CD, which makes USENET News available on CD-ROM.  Now, with NetNews/CD, the wealth of information available via USENET is archived and readily available  when you need it, not just when it arrives.  With NetNews/CD you will  be able to keep years of USENET News on your shelf so that you can access  and benefit from it at your convenience.

With nearly 3000 active newsgroups and more being created daily, one of  the major problems with USENET News has been the massive amounts of data.   Most sites do not have the disk space to store it all on a daily basis,  let alone a yearly basis.  Those that do receive a full feed are forced  to use relatively short news expire times to free up disk space for  incoming daily news.  Many sites have had to limit the number of groups  they subscribe to due to the speeds of their modems, the costs of long distance phone calls to an upstream USENET feed or the size of the  available disk space.  NetNews/CD solves these problems by making nearly 600 Megabytes of USENET news available on CD-ROM each month.

The purpose of the NetNews series is to assure that the valuable information  which passes through USENET daily is not lost, as is the case in most  newsgroups today.  The monthly CDs are generated on the first of each month.

Yearly subscribers receive 12 months of USENET news on CD-ROM and they also receive the yearly NetGems special issue.  The current NetGems CD-ROM contains the X Window System Version 11 Release 5 sources, the Free Software  Foundation's GNU software as well as the USENET comp.sources.* archives.   It also contains alt.sources and vmsnet.sources archives.  Besides those  archives, NetGems also contains an archive of the Request For Comments  (RFCs) available from the NIC which are the basis for most of the existing  Internet protocols.  The software and RFCs on the NetGems CD were gathered  on December 29, 1991.

X11R5   -  X Window System Release 5, Patchlevel 8

gnu     -  GNU software

rfcs    -  Request For Comments

usenet  -  USENET News source archives

           alt.sources, alt.sources.amiga,

           alt.sources.patches,   comp.archives,

           comp.archives.admin,   comp.sources.3b1,

           comp.sources.amiga,    comp.sources.apple2,

           comp.sources.atari.st, comp.sources.bugs,

           comp.sources.games,    comp.sources.hp48,

           comp.sources.mac,      comp.sources.misc,

           comp.sources.reviewed, comp.sources.sun,

           comp.sources.unix,     comp.sources.x,

           news.answers,          unix-pc,

           u3b.sources,           vmsnet.sources

Specifics:

Initially NetNews/CD will be distributed for Sun platforms with ISO 9660 support becoming available in March.  The January and February  CDs will be made available in ISO 9660 format at that time.  NetNews/CD is available in both a yearly subscription or monthly issue rate.

Costs:

Yearly subscription + NetGems  -  $349.95 US plus shipping.

Individual monthly issues      -   $39.95 US plus shipping.

NetGems, Best of '91           -   $49.95 US plus shipping.

Volume discounts are available.

Shipping: NetGems begins shipping the first week in February, and January's NewNews/CD begins shipping on February 15.  Subsequent monthly CDs are being shipped on  the 15th of each month.

Phone inquiries concerning orders and technical support questions may be  made between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM CST, Monday through Friday at 1-800-643-NEWS (or 1-800-643-6397).  The FAX number is 1-402-291-4362.

        Sterling Software

        NetNews/CD

        1404 Fort Crook Road South

        Bellevue, NE  68005-2969


Camintonn/Z-RAM Memory Upgrades
Camintonn/Z-RAM, introduces at UniForum new memory upgrades for Sun, Silicon Graphics and IBM PS/2. According to Len Herbstman, Marketing Drector, "Camintonn/Z-RAM's new memory upgrades are designed to meet the needs of today's high-powered UNIX-based workstations with demanding networking and graphics applications. They upgrade workstation memory to maximum capacity, and are so reliable they're guaranteed for life." Camintonn/Z-RAM has been a leading manufacturer of third party memory products for minicomputers and workstations for over ten years.

For Silicon Graphics' newest 4D/RPC INdigo workstation, Z-RAM is now introducing both an 8MB and a 32 MB Memory Kit. These workstations can easily be upgraded to their maximum memory capacity of 96 MB by using 3 low-cost Camintonn/Z-RAM 32 MB Memory Kits. Both kits are 100% compatible with Silicon Graphics' personal IRIS workstation models 4D/30 and 4D/35. These kits offer a maximum system capacity of 128MB. Other new memory products for Silicon Graphics include 8MB and 32 MB Memory Kits for over thirteen Power Series Iris Workstation models (4D/120-4D/480).

Camintonn/Z-Ram is announcing at UniForum new 16 MB memory modules for the Sun SPARCstation IPX and ELC workstations. These 100% compatible memoey modules cost-effectively upgrade the Sun workstations to their maximum capacity of 64 MB.

Camintonn/Z-RAM is also showing its 32 bit memory board for the IBM PS/2 Models 70 and 80. This board, which is fully compatible with the IBM microchannel design, is available in either 2 MB or 4 MB configurations. The board will support a maximum of 32 MB of memory.

Known throughout the industry for high quality memory for DEC mid-range systems, Camintonn/Z-RAM also manufacturers a line of workstation memory for HP, IBM, Sun and Silicon Graphics. Z-RAM offers a broad product line of 100% compatible memory designed for PCs including IBM, AST, Compaq, Toshiba, Apple, Zenith and HP LaserJet printers. All Camintonn/Z-RAM memory products are made in the US.

Camintonn/Z-RAM, 22 Morgan, Irvine, CA 92718

Phone: 714-454-6500


Buena Vista Swr from Disney
Walt Disney Computer Software announced the creation of a new software label, Buena Vista Software, and the release of new entertainment software under the existing Disney Software label.

Buena Vista Software's first title, Heaven & Earth, is being unveiled at the Winter '92 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, along with the Disney Software titles Coaster and Stunt Island.

"Disney Software has experienced tremendous growth in 1991 with products primarily designed for children," said Shelley Miles, vice president and general manager of Disney Software. "Our new Buena Vista Software label will develop entertainment that will appeal to an older audience that will complement our Disney Software line in its quality and excitement."

Heaven & Earth is from the developers of the popular games Ishido and Shanghai. This "Zen-like" computer software challenges players' skill, concentration and intellect in three different entertainment arenas: The Heaven & Earth card game, The Pendulum and The Illusions.

Heaven & Earth will also be the first software from Disney for Apple Computer's Macintosh (see accompanying press release). Disney plans several more entertainment Macintosh products for 1992.

A second release from Buena Vista Software, tentatively scheduled for summer, will take a tongue-in-cheek look at the world of office politics. Dog Eat Dog promises to enter a new arena in the adventure game category.

Entertainment from Disney Software will break new ground in 1992 with the "virtual reality" world of Stunt Island: The Flying and Filming Simulation. Developed with input from Hollywood stunt directors, Stunt Island, will enable players to design, fly and film their own stunt films in a world of their own creation.

In Disney Software's Coaster, players can design, build and ride in the rollercoaster of their wildest imagination. This new type of simulation was developed with input from Disney World and Disneyland attraction designers.

Walt Disney Computer Software is an operating unit of Disney Consumer Products, the merchandising and specialty retail group of The Walt Disney Company. Disney Software is a developer, publisher and licensor of entertainment, creativity and children's software.

Walt Disney Computer Software Inc

500 South Buena Vista St, Burbank, CA 91521


New Disney Sales Policy
Walt Disney Computer Software announced that it will inaugurate immediately a new sales policy of a guaranteed "street date" for new software releases.

"The competitive nature of the computer software market has created an environment where distributors and retailers are incurring tremendous shipping expenses to have a new product before the competition," said Sam Poole, director of sales for Walt Disney Computer Software. "Disney Software believes it is time to put things back into proper perspective and gain some stability in the distribution channel."

Disney Software will announce to distributors and retailers the "ship date" and the "street date" for products one month prior to the launch of new products. The "street date" of the product will be approximately two weeks after the "ship date," in order to allow retailers to have product on shelves at the "street date." Violators of the "street date" policy will not be shipped the next new release until the "street date" of that product.

"We don't expect many violations of the "street date" policy since this is in everyone's best interest to save on shipping costs, and we hope other software publishers will join Disney and institute a similar policy," said Poole.

Walt Disney Computer Software is an operating unit of Disney Consumer Products, the merchandising and specialty retail group of The Walt Disney Company. Disney Software is a developer, publisher and licensor of entertainment, creativity and children's software.

Walt Disney Computer Software Inc

500 South Buena Vista St, Burbank, CA 91521


Ensoniq Distributing C-LAB Prods.
ENSONIQ Corp and C-LAB software announced a new distribution agreement, with ENSONIQ being appointed the Authorized U.S. distributor of all C-LAB products.

C-LAB is one of the top music software manufacturers in the world, and makers of the popular "NOTATOR" and "CREATOR" products for the Atari computers; They plan on strengthening this position through this agreement and upcoming releases of their products on other computer platforms.

ENSONIQ's President Bruce Crockett stated, "This is an excellent business opportunity for both companies, but the real beneficiary of this agreement is our dealers. It allows them to profit from this growing product category, and they know that they'll get the product training, customer and marketing support they've come to expect from ENSONIQ."

Current C-LAB dealers and customers will now deal directly with ENSONIQ. To help current NOTATOR owners get the newly released version 3.1 software, ENSONIQ is offering the upgrade package along with a mouse pad for only $75.00, a savings of over $25.00. This offer is good until March 31, 1992. For more information contact: ENSONIQ Corp, 155 Great Valley Parkway, Malvern, PA 19355, or call l-800-553-5151.

Headquartered outside of Philadelphia, PA, ENSONIQ Corp is one of the leading innovators in the field of sound technology. Using advanced custom microchip design in sound producing devices, ENSONIQ provides the consumer with genuine breakthrough technology at affordable prices.

ENSONIQ Corp, 155 Great Valley Parkway, Malvern, PA 19355

(215) 647-3930    FAX (215) 647-8908


WinChem CLP Forms & EPA Database
CLP Forms Templates are designed to ease you through the tedious task of filling out CLP reports. All of the formatting of these reports is already done for you using Microsoft's Excel 3.0 templates. You start with the main menu that lists all of the forms and then choose the appropriate form by clicking with a mouse. Simply tab from one field to the next and save the completed form as an Excel Worksheet. The different fields are color coded to inform the analyst if the data is automatically calculated, is common header information or if it is a data input field. Automatic calculation is executed within the spreadsheet for calculated values and the number of decimal places is adhred to as per the "Statement of Work". Notes are attached to column headers and cells to guide the analyst to input the exact format required. Completed forms can be printed or archived for later retrieval. Forms for Volatile Organic Analysis, Semivolatile Organic Analysis, Pesticide, and Inorganic Analysis are currently available. These forms are easy to use and can save valuable clerical/analyst time.

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

New Windows 3.0 Electronic EPA Methods

Electronic EPA Methods Database software include the complete EPA methods as they appear in the manuals. The program has been designed so that searching by method number, analyte, title, type of instrumentation, or CAS number is extremely fast. By using short keys you can then select the next previous, first or last method in a group of methods that satisfy the search criteria. Methods can be printed out for a hard copy to be included in a report or placed next to a work station. Electronic EPA methods save time that would otherwise be spent wading through volumes of EPA binders to find the correct method for any given compound that the EPA has a method for. The program is easy to use and can be accessed while other Windows 3.0 programs are running. Databases that are available include the EPA 500, 600, Water and Waste, SW846 and CLP methods. A network version is also available.

WindowChem Software, Inc.

1955 West Texas St., Fairfield, CA 94533-4462

(800) 536-0404.


NEC Silentwriter Model 95 PostScript
NEC Technologies, Inc. introduced a new, fully configured Adobe PostScript Level II laser printer at the Macworld Exposition held here this week. Providing Macintosh and MS-DOS compatibility, PostScript Level II, HP PCL 5, Sharp Edge Technology and an optional PostScript facsimile capability, the Silentwriter Model 95 printer has a suggested retail price of $1,749.

"The Silentwriter Model 95 printer is the lowest priced, fully configured PostScript laser printer available today," said John M. McIntyre, director of marketing for NEC's Printer Division. "It's state-of-the-art features and versatility make it an incredible value."

The six page per minute Silentwriter Model 95 printer provides two megabytes of RAM, expandable to five megabytes, and features a 16.7 megahertz Motorola 68000 microprocessor with a built-in Adobe PostScript Level II interpreter which provides 35 resident scalable typefaces. The printer also provides HP PCL 5 emulation with resident scalable fonts in HP Laserjet III emulation. The Silentwriter Model 95 printer also provides:

* High Print Quality. The Silentwriter Model 95 printer's Microfine toner produces a rich black print density. Print quality is further enhanced by the printer's Sharp Edge Technology which eliminates jagged edges and produces the print quality appearance of a 600 dpi printer. Thirty-five Adobe scalable fonts provide a "built-in font factory" for more professional documents.

* Enhanced Connectivity. Adobe Postscript and PC 5 with HPGL provide full software compatibility with PC and Macintosh software. Automatic emulation switching detects PostScript and PCL files and configures the printer automatically. Providing standard parallel, RS-232 serial and AppleTalk/RS-422 interfaces, the Silentwriter Model 95 printer features Automatic Interface Monitoring which automatically switches between active ports, allowing simultaneous connection of multiple PCs and/or Macintosh systems. Both Macintosh and Windows screen fonts are standard, resulting in true WYSIWYG (What you see is what you get) for desktop publishing.

* Enhanced Paper Handling. A built-in fifteen envelope feeder with a standard 250 sheet cassette offers users the flexibility of feeding envelopes and cut sheets from separate trays. The cassette can accommodate up to 24-pound letter paper or transparencies. A built-in multi-purpose tray can accommodate up to 41-pound paper. Options include a second 250 sheet cassette which provides collating capability as well as added capacity, and a face-up output tray.

* Improved Performance. The Silentwriter Model 95 printer's six page per minute engine and Motorola 68000 16.7 megahertz offers fast throughput. Adobe PostScript Level II performance affords faster graphics processing and the printer's two megabyte memory ensures full page graphics in either letter or legal size.

* Facsimile Capability. While allowing the Silentwriter Model 95 to send/receive standard Group III facsimiles, the optional PostScript fax modem allows users to send and receive PostScript facsimile transmissions to and from the printer. This is the first implementation of PostScript language facsimile capability available for a laser printer.

A single cartridge consumables system provides easy user replacement of both toner and optical photo conductor. The Silentwriter Model 95 has a 6,000 page-per-month duty cycle with consumables being replaced every 6,000 pages.

The Silentwriter Model 95 printer will be available through NEC's authorized resellers at a suggested retail price of $1,749 in late January 1992.

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

NEC Technologies, Inc., announced the first PostScript language facsimile capability for a laser printer. An option available for NEC's new Silentwriter Model 95 laser printer which was introduced today, allows Silentwriter Model 95 printer users to send resolution independent faxes and receive faxes in PostScript through their printers.

"The whole concept of facsimile as a communications tool changes with the capability to fax the highest quality documents via a plain paper printer," said John M. McIntyre, director of marketing of NEC's Printer Division. "Users will receive original quality documents using NEC's PostScript fax option and our Silentwriter Model 95 printer."

With the NEC PostScript language facsimile option, a Silentwriter Model 95 printer can send and receive Group III or PostScript format facsimile documents to and from a facsimile configured Macintosh, PC or standalone fax machine regardless of the manufacturer, print resolution, print technology, color capability or other characteristics of the sending or receiving device. Documents are sent using NEC supplied software drivers from any application. Other features of the NEC PostScript language facsimile option include:

o PostScript language file transmission provides resolution independence and printing and publishing compatibility including color.

o Auto-retry on busy/no answer frees users from constantly checking on the status of outgoing faxes.

o Delayed transmission enables users to "program" transmittal times and take advantage of lower phone rates and time zone considerations.

o PostScript format reduces standard facsimile costs because it is more compressed than the standard Group III format, which results in shorter phone calls.

o Cover sheet support, activity summaries, time/day stamps and confirmations ensure users that transmittals are complete and timely.

o Broadcast feature enables users to transmit facsimiles to multiple locations.

Specifications on the Silentwriter Model 95 printer's facsimile options are:

Protocol: V.21, V.27, V.29

Speed:    2400, 4800, 7200 and 9600 bits per second

Power Requirements: 0.75 watts

Physical Size:      4" x 4.2"

Adding NEC's PostScript Language Facsimile Option to a Silentwriter Model 95 printer is competitive with any plain paper fax product on the market. NEC's PostScript fax option will ship this summer at a suggested retail price of $599 and can be installed on all Silentwriter Model 95 printers.

NEC Technologies, Inc., a leading supplier of computers, peripherals and CD-ROM software for the North American market, is an affiliate of NEC Corporation, a $26 billion manufacturer of computer, communications, semiconductor and home entertainment products.

NEC Technologies Inc

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719

508-264-8000


Clipper Creative Art Service
Dynamic Graphics, Inc., the world's leading clip art service, has just released a new 4-color, 9-fold brochure promoting Clipper Creative Art Service and its digital offspring, Electronic Clipper. Clipper is the clip art industry leader, providing high quality camera-ready/output-ready illustrations and designs commissioned from leading artists throughout America. Subscribers include ad agencies, design houses, art departments, institutions and individuals worldwide.

Traditional Clipper, printed on large format pages, is also a complete art service offering support materials such as the 16-page Clip Bits which provides a sundry of creative ideas, showing sample layouts each month using art and copy. Subscribers also have access to a vast library of over 10,000 Clipper illustrations for special orders.

Electronic Clipper, formatted for either the Mac or PC, offers similar monthly creative supplements, such as the 16-page Options which is tailored to computer designers. It also includes image Quest, an electronic interactive indexing system that greatly simplifies art storage and retrieval. Each month, a new image Quest module is included which allows the subscriber to update the electronic index with the latest art additions. With image Quest, art may be retrieved by selecting a visual thumbnail on screen or by typing in a word command, subject or title.

The brochure explains some of Dynamic Graphics' electronic art advantages such as layering, which effectively separates select EPS illustrations into several freestanding elements. Each layered illustration may be used as is, rearranged, or separated into individual, ready-to-use images complete in every detail.

As a special offer, Dynamic Graphics will deduct 15% off both annual rates for customers subscribing to both Clipper services, or by adding Clipper and one other monthly art service such as Print Media Service (paper) or Designer's Club (disk).

Established in 1964, Dynamic Graphics is the leader in clip art and electronic art subscription services. It is the publisher of the award-winning Step-By-Step Graphics magazine and Step-By-Step Electronic Design newsletter. Through its Educational Foundation, Dynamic Graphics also conducts workshops and seminars nationwide.

Dynamic Graphics, Inc.

6000 North Forest Park Drive, Peoria, IL 61656

800/255-8800


Intracorp Buying Into PC Globe
Leigh M. Rothschild, president of Intracorp, Inc., and Gilbert S. Daniels, president of PC Globe, Inc., jointly announced an agreement whereby Intracorp will purchase a controlling interest in PC Globe. While details of the agreement were not disclosed, the stock purchase is expected to be completed within the next thirty days.

Based in Tempe, Arizona, PC Globe, Inc. is the worldwide leader in desktop geography software: The company, founded in 1987 by the late Roy Kessler, publishes the popular "electronic atlas" programs, PC Globe, PC USA and MacGlobe, as well as software geography games such as Bushbuck Global Treasure Hunter, GeoJigsaw and GeoQuiz. The flagship program, PC Globe, has been translated into numerous foreign languages and has been acclaimed internationally as the most versatile and simple-to-use geography program in its price range.

Founded in 1986, Intracorp, Inc. is a computer software publisher based in Miami, Florida. The company is a leading publisher of gaming simulations and movie-based software under its Capstone Entertainment label. Among its highly successful products are Trump Castle ll--The Ultimate Casino Gambling Simulation, Lotto Gold, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, The Taking of Beverly Hills, and HOME ALONE--The Computer Game.


MS Press-Excel Macros & Mac C Prog.
Complete Guide to Microsoft Excel Macros

Covers Microsoft Excel version 3 for Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Excel 3 for the Apple Macintosh

Microsoft Excel users can now unleash the full power of Microsoft Excel with the COMPLETE GUIDE TO MICROSOFT EXCEL MACROS from Microsoft Press.

This one-of-a-kind book by Charles W. Kyd and Chris Kinata shows readers how to streamline report generation, automate routine keystroke and data-entry tasks, and create sophisticated interactive applications with macros--sets of keystrokes or instructions recorded and saved under a short key code. It's the first book on macros that shows users how to create Microsoft Excel macros for both Microsoft Windows and for the Apple Macintosh.

Step-by-step examples, illustrations, tips, and case studies make learning and working with Microsoft Excel macros easier and more productive. Experts looking for a potent development tool and new users eager to increase spreadsheet productivity will learn about the subtleties of and specific uses for selected macro functions and discover how to:

* Create simple function and command macros

* Debug, edit, and speed up macros

* Prevent the most common macro errors

* Use macros to design custom dialog boxes and menus

* Develop interactive macros

* Create macros that respond to specific events

* Work effectively with text formulas, cell references,

  and range names in macros

Handy appendixes list Microsoft Excel's worksheet and macro functions by category and in alphabetic order. A comprehensive index helps users quickly find information on any topic in the book.

Charles Kyd is president of The Kyd Group, a developer of software applications for business, and is a participant in the Microsoft Consulting Partner program. Kyd, a certified public accountant, has written columns and articles in Inc., Lotus, and other computer and business magazines. This is his fourth book about spreadsheets.

Chris Kinata worked for Microsoft Corporation from 1984 through 1989 as a technical editor, writer, and Microsoft Word guru. Kinata is the author of the award-winning Working with Word for the Apple Macintosh (Microsoft Press, 1989).

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Macintosh C Programming by Example

A Step-by-Step Guide to Developing Programs with THINK C

Drawing from their experience as co-authors of the highly regarded "Power Programming" column in MacUser magazine, Kurt Matthies and Thom Hogan have come up with a definitive, example packed introduction to Macintosh programming using Symantec THINK C--the award-winning, industry preferred Apple Macintosh application development environment. MACINTOSH C PROGRAMMING BY EXAMPLE, from Microsoft Press, is an ideal book and software package for the veteran MS-DOS C programmer and the Mac user with little or no C programming experience.

Matthies and Hogan start with the basics by introducing the Leader to the THINK C programming environment (including the debugger) and then to the C language itself. An overview of Mac application fundamentals is then followed by an explanation of how the Mac manages memory.

In three successive chapters, the authors trace step-by-step development of Generic App, a reusable, full-blown application shell that contains all the menu, dialog box, event, and window handling functions essential to every program that conforms to Apple's Macintosh user interface guidelines. The reader can use the Generic App Shell as a basis for application development again and again, and Matthies and Hogan use Generic App later in the book to create working applications that explore Mac file handling and Mac text and graphics capabilities.

The accompanying disk contains Generic App and the other sample applications, each of which includes the C language source, header, and resource files and the THINK C project file. These source code examples illustrate

* Layered software design

* Event handling

* Window handling

* Data structures and algorithms for managing a

  document list

* Drawing and updating text and graphics

* How the contents of any file can be displayed in either

  text or binary mode

* Use of the Toolbox

* System 7.0 features

Working with the code on the 800-KB 3.5-inch disk requires an Apple Macintosh with lMB RAM and a hard disk and any version of THINK C 2.13 through 5.0.

Kurt W. G. Matthies is an internationally known writer, lecturer, and software developer. As a former contributing editor to MacUser magazine, Matthies co-wrote the popular "Power Programming" column with Thom Hogan.

Thom Hogan is a software developer, technical writer, and lecturer. He is the author of several books, including The Programmer's PC Sourcebook (now in its second edition) and The Programmer's Apple Mac Sourcebook from Microsoft Press.

MACINTOSH C PROGRAMMING BY EXAMPLE is the newest title in the Macintosh Programming Series from Microsoft Press. Object-Oriented Programming Power for THINK Pascal"' Programmers was published earlier this year. These two new books join the Macintosh programming books already available from Microsoft Press: Learn BASIC for the Apple Macintosh Now and Inside SuperCard.

Microsoft Press, the trade book division of Microsoft Corporation, publishes a wide range of quality books on computer programming, software and hardware, and other topics of importance to the computer industry. Microsoft Press books are widely recognized as authorized editions for the MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows operating systems, Microsoft languages, and software applications such as Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel. Microsoft Press books are distributed to book and software retailers worldwide. Consumers in the United States may also order directly from the publisher at 1-800 MSPRESS.

Microsoft Press

One Microsoft Way  Redmond, Washington 98052-6399

206 882-8080


AST Advantage! NB-SX25 Notebook
AST Research Inc. introduced the fastest notebook offered through the consumer retail channel, the Advantage! NB-SX25. The 25-MHz notebook computer, which is available for immediate delivery, is an addition to the company's Advantage! line designed for the consumer retail market.

AST announced its first retail notebook, the Advantage! NBSX20, in August 1991 which is now being sold through Circuit City and Computer City superstores nationwide.

"The Advantage! NB-SX25 packs the power and functionality of a desktop computer in a lightweight portable system which offers small-business users the convenience of mobility," said Jim Schraith, AST vice president of channel sales and services. "The high-performance notebook allows users to perform the same applications on the road as they do in their offices."

The 7.3-pound Advantage! NB-SX25 includes a 60-MB hard disk drive; a 1.44-MB, 3.5-inch diskette drive; a 2,400-baud internal data modem; 4MB of RAM, expandable to 8MB; one serial port; one parallel port; one external monitor; one numeric keypad/mouse port and a fast-charge AC adapter.

The system is powered by a 25-MHz microprocessor which offers 25 percent higher performance than the 20-MHz 386SX/20 notebook model.

To enhance its ease of use, the system includes preinstalled MS-DOS 5.0 operating system, Prodigy on-line information service software and MTEZ data communications software. Borland's Sidekick, a desktop organizer, also is included featuring useful applications such as a time planner, notepad, calendar, address book and calculator.

With a NiCad battery pack, the notebook offers three hours of battery life. The Advantage! NB-SX25 also features an 8.5" diagonal VGA display with a film supertwist LCD flat panel to produce a paper white screen for exceptional readability.

"The system provides users the power to implement applications such as Windows as well as complex tasks such as graphics and spreadsheet calculations," Schraith said.

Pricing for the Advantage! products are established by individual retail outlets.

The notebook comes with a one-year limited warranty and a one-year enrollment in the Advantage! ExeCare program. The Advantage! Exec Care program provides customers with 24-hour replacement or repair of a notebook anywhere within the United States. Notebooks also are available for loan to customers who are waiting for their unit to be repaired.

AST provides end users with a variety of service and support options. Through a toll-free technical assistance hot line, customers can get immediate answers to questions regarding their system. The hours of this hot line have been recently extended and operate from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST, Monday through Friday and from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. PST on Saturdays.

Other service and support programs include AST On-Line, a 24-hour bulletin board service offered worldwide, and AST InfoFAX, which allows 24-hour access via fax machine to a wide variety of technical support documentation for customers.

AST Research Inc is a leading market share holder of desktop, file server and notebook computers. Storeboard/Computer Intelligence, an industry research firm, has reported that AST has ranked second with 16.5 percent in 386SX notebook share according to Storeboard's monthly survey of U.S. computer dealers from April to November 1991. Storeboard also announced AST U.S. desktop market share for the 386SX, 486SX and 486DX systems as 6.5 percent, 8.5 percent and 10.8 percent, respectively for the year to date.

AST entered the consumer retail channel in August 1991 with the introduction of the Advantage! product line which includes 386SX/20, 486/25 and 486SX/20 desktop models as well as a 386SX/20 notebook.

AST's other product lines include the Premium, Bravo and Premium Exec families which allow users to choose from a full range of price and performance options. The company is represented in 100 countries and operates 34 subsidiaries and sales offices worldwide.

The company reported record sales of $688.5 million for the 1991 fiscal year ended June 28, 1991, compared to sales of $533.8 million for fiscal year 1990. AST is listed on Standard & Poor's Register of Corporations' MidCap 400 Index.

AST Research corporate headquarters are located at 16215 Alton Parkway, P.O. Box 19658, Irvine, Calif. 92713-9658. Telephone: (714) 727-4141, (800) 727-4278. Fax: (714) 727-9355.


AST Expands Advantage! Line
AST Research Inc. announced the expansion of its Advantage! computer line, designed for the consumer retail market, with the addition of a family of systems for small businesses and home offices called Office Advantage!

The Office Advantage! line will be sold through office superstores nationwide while the Advantage! family is sold through Circuit City and Computer City superstores throughout the U.S. The product lines will be on display at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas from Jan. 9 to 12 where AST will explore new distribution opportunities through regional consumer products merchandisers.

The product families, which are currently available, are sold as complete systems to their target markets. The Advantage! line, which focuses on the home user, features Microsoft Works for Windows and Microsoft Money software. The Office Advantage! family includes the Microsoft packages as well as Lotus 1-2-3 on selected models. The Office Advantage! line also features higher capacity drives to allow small businesses and home office users to customize their computers for specific applications.

"The high-performance models included in the Office Advantage! line provide users the opportunity to perform sophisticated business applications with an easy to use system," said Jim Schraith, AST vice president of channel sales and services. "The line has been designed with a 'plug-and-play' approach without sacrificing performance."

The Office Advantage! line includes 386SX/20, 486SX/20 and 486/25 desktop models. AST has pre-loaded the systems with more than $500 worth of software to provide quick set up for immediate use.

Pricing for the new products is established by individual retail outlets.

Office Advantage! desktop computers come pre-installed with MS-DOS 5.0 and Windows 3.0. The 386SX model features Lotus 1-2-3 while the 486SX and 486DX models feature Microsoft Works for Windows and Microsoft Money. Microsoft Works is an integrated software package featuring word processing, database management, spreadsheet and graphic design functions. Microsoft Money, which runs under the Windows graphical user environment, is a complete finance program for home and small-business users.

The Office Advantage! 386SX/20LE features an 40-MB IDE hard disk drive and both a 1.44-MB, 3.5-inch diskette drive and 1.2MB, 5.25-inch diskette drive. Other features include a mouse; 2MB of RAM, expandable to 16MB; an integrated Super VGA adapter; two internal drive bays; two serial ports; one parallel port; and one mouse port.

The Office Advantage! 486/25 and 486SX/20 systems have a 200-MB IDE hard disk drive and a 1.44-MB, 3.5-inch diskette drive and a 5.25-inch, 1.2-MB diskette drive. Additional features include a 2,400-baud data/fax modem; an AST mouse; 4MB of RAM, expandable to 16MB; an integrated Super VGA adapter; two internal drive bays; two serial ports; one parallel port; and one mouse port.

To further the company's commitment to the consumer retail market, AST provides a one-year, on-site limited warranty on the Office Advantage! products.

AST provides end users with a variety of service and support options. Through a toll-free technical assistance hot line, customers can get immediate answers to questions regarding their system. The hours of this hot line have been recently extended and operate from 5 am to 7 p.m. PST, Monday through Friday and from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. PST on Saturdays.

Other service and support programs include AST On-Line, a 24-hour bulletin board service offered worldwide, and AST InfoFAX, which allows 24-hour access via fax machine to a wide variety of technical support documentation for customers.

AST Research

16215 Alton Parkway, P.O. Box 19658, Irvine, CA 92713-9658

(714) 727-4141, (800) 727-4278.  Fax: (714) 727-9355


OCE Graphics 4MB PostScript Printer
Oce Graphics has announced a 4MB version of its popular A-size color PostScript printer. The new lower priced version, G5241-PS/4, is primarily intended for use in business presentation environments. The list price for the new version is $6,990. The company also reduced the price on the 8MB G5241-PS by 11 percent, from $8,990 to $7,990. Both units are available immediately.

The G5241-PS, introduced in March of 1990, and the G5241-PS/4 print true Adobe Postscript images in Pantone licensed colors on paper or overhead transparency film. A thermal transfer process gives the machines a print resolution of 300 dots per inch (dpi). Output can be in either US letter (A) or larger size, with a printable area on letter size paper of 8.2 x 9.3 inches; and 8.2 x 11 inches on larger pages.

"For those interested in only creating business presentations, the new G5241-PS/4 provides a way to acquire a high quality color printer without paying for features only required in the graphic arts and publishing environments," said Steve Faria, printer marketing manager at Oce Graphics. "The 8MB unit is still a full function printer intended for those who need maximum capabilities. "

Standard interfaces included with both machines are AppleTalk, Centronics parallel and RS 232-C serial. Both printers are fully compatible with AppleTalk networks.

Both printers are 9.9 inches high by 16.1 inches wide by 17.5 inches long, and weigh 42 pounds. Noise level is under 50dB.

Oce Graphics, 385 Ravendale Drive, Mountain View, CA 94043

(800) 545-5445, FAX (415) 961-6152.


NASA Software for Mac via Univ GA
ENERGY BALANCE

The DET/MPS programs model and simulate the Direct Energy Transfer and Multimission Spacecraft Modular Power System in order to aid both in design and in analysis of orbital energy balance. Typically, the DET power system has the solar array directly to the spacecraft bus, and the central building block of MPS is the Standard Power Regulator Unit. DET/MPS allows a minute-by-minute simulation of the power system's performance as it responds to various orbital parameters, focusing its output on solar array output and battery characteristics. DET/MPS can be adjusted to run one or sequential orbits up to about one week, simulated time.

DET/MPS is written in FORTRAN 77 with some VAX-type extensions. Any FORTRAN 77 compiler that includes VAX extensions should be able to compile and run the program with little or no modifications. The compiler must at least support free-form (or tab-delineated) source format and 'do do-while end-do' control structures. DET/MPS is available for three platforms: GSC13374, for DEC VAX series computers running VMS, is available in DEC VAX Backup format on a 9-track 1600 BPI tape (standard distribution) or TK50 tape cartridge; GSC-13443, for UNIX-based computers, is available on a .25 inch streaming magnetic tape cartridge in UNIX tar format; and GSC-13444, for Macintosh computers running AU/X with either the NKR FORTRAN or AbSoft MacFORTRAN II compilers, is available on a 3.5 inch 800K Macintosh format diskette. Source code and test data are supplied. Program $600; documentation $18.

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RELIABILITY

FEAT, the Failure Environment Analysis Tool (MSC-21873), uses digraph models to answer two questions: 1) What will happen to a system if a set of failure events occurs, and 2) What are the possible causes of a set of selected failures. As a design tool, FEAT helps design reviewers understand exactly what redundancies have been built into a system and where weaknesses need to be protected or designed out. The program is also useful in operations, where it can help identify causes of failure after they occur. Finally, FEAT is valuable in conceptual development and as a training aid since digraphs can identify weaknesses in scenarios as well as hardware.

The first step in using FEAT is building a digraph model and schematic as well as any data base files to be displayed for the target system. The digraph model, drawn in MacDraw II, consists of circles with associated text, arrows, and logic gates that represent the flow of failure through a system. The digraph engine processor is a multi-step algorithm to perform transitive closure. The digraph is reduced to a pair of matrices, an AND matrix and an OR matrix. After the AND and OR matrices are constructed, there are three "math" phases: one to find "hidden singletons," one to "compress" the OR matrix, and one to find "hidden doubletons." In each phase, forward path tracing is used to determine how far a source of failure can travel downstream through the digraph.

The Failure Environment Analysis Tool is written using Macintosh Programmers Workshop C v3.1. Compilation with MPW C v3.2 or higher is required if using System 7. FEAT may be linked with CLIPS 5.0 (MSC-21927, available from COSMIC). The program will run on any Macintosh with enough RAM to handle the models. 2Mb or more is highly recommended. A color monitor is necessary to display the model results, but not necessary for the preliminary development of the model and schematic. A drawing package such as CLARIS MacDraw II l.lv2, which can save in PICT format, is required to build the models. The standard distribution media for FEAT is a set of two 3.5" Macintosh format diskettes. An electronic copy of the documentation is included on the program media along with example digraph files. Program $700; documentation $23.

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GENETIC ALGORITHM

SPLICER, MSC-21904, is a genetic algorithm tool which can be used to solve search and optimization problems. Genetic algorithms are adaptive search procedures (i.e. problem solving methods) based loosely on the processes of natural selection and Darwinian "survival of the fittest." SPLICER provides the underlying framework and structure for building a genetic algorithm application. These algorithms apply genetically-inspired operators to populations of potential solutions in an iterative fashion, creating new populations while searching for an optimal or near-optimal solution to the problem at hand.

SPLICER's genetic algorithm (GA) kernel was developed independent of representation (i.e. problem encoding), fitness function or user interface type. The GA kernel comprises all functions necessary for the manipulation of populations, including the creation of populations and population members, the iterative population model, fitness scaling, parent selection and sampling, and the generation of population statistics. Fitness modules are the only component of the SPLICER system a user will normally need to create or alter to solve a particular problem. Fitness functions are defined and stored in interchangeable fitness modules which must be created using C language. Within a fitness module, a user can create a fitness (or scoring) function, set the initial values for various SPLICER control parameters (e.g., population size), create a function which graphically displays the best solutions as they are found, and provide descriptive information about the problem. The tool comes with several example fitness modules, while the process of developing a fitness module is fully discussed in the accompanying documentation. The user interface is event-driven and provides graphic output in windows.

SPLICER is written in Think C for Apple Macintosh computers running System 6.0.3 or later. Example executables and source code are included in the package. The standard distribution media is three 3.5 inch Macintosh format diskettes. An electronic copy of the documentation is included on the program media. Program $200; documentation $21.

COSMIC, The University of Georgia

382 East Broad St, Athens, GA 30602

404-542-3265    fax: 404-542-4807


NASA Software for PCs via Univ GA
BENCHMARK SUITE

One area of research of the Information Sciences Division at NASA Ames Research Center is the analysis and enhancement of processors and advanced computer architectures, specifically in support of automation and robotic systems. To compare systems' abilities to efficiently process Lisp and Ada, scientists at Ames Research Center have developed a suite of non-parallel benchmarks called ELAPSE. The benchmark suite was designed to test a single computer's efficiency as well as alternate machine comparisons on Lisp, and/or Ada languages.

The ELAPSE benchmarks, ARC-12980, are available for any computer with a validated Ada compiler and/or Common Lisp system. Of the 18 routines that comprise ELAPSE, provided within this package are 14 developed or translated at Ames. The others are readily available through literature. The benchmark that requires the most memory is CHOLESKY.ADA. Under VAX/VMS, CHOLESKY.ADA requires 760K of main memory. ELAPSE is available on either two 5.25 inch 360K MS-DOS format diskettes (standard distribution) or a 9-track 1600 BPI ASCII CARD IMAGE format magnetic tape. Program $300; documentation $16.

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INTEGER PROGRAMMING

IESIP, an Improved Exploratory Search Technique for Pure Integer Linear Programming Problems, addresses the problem of optimizing an objective function of one or more variables subject to a set of confining functions or constraints by a method called discrete optimization or integer programming. While more difficult, integer programming is required for accuracy when modeling systems with small numbers of components such as the distribution of goods, machine scheduling, and production scheduling. IESIP, developed by NASA Marshall Space Center, establishes a new methodology for solving pure integer programming problems. The user-friendly IESIP allows for rapid solution of problems up to 10 variables in size (limited by DOS allocation). Sample problems compare IESIP solutions with the traditional branch-and-bound approach.

IESIP, MFS-27260, is written in Borland's TURBO Pascal for IBM PC series computers and compatibles running DOS. Source code and an executable are provided. The main memory requirement for execution is 25K. This program is available on a 5.25 inch 360K MS DOS format diskette. Program $100; documentation $24.

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TOLERANCE FACTORS

TF, the Tolerance Factors and Non-Central T Distribution Computer Program from NASA Marshall Space Center, computes the tolerance factor from a normal distribution sample for an arbitrarily specified coverage probability, confidence level, and any positive (integer or non-integer) degrees of freedom. TF is menu-driven and has four calculation routines: 1) one-sided tolerance factor calculation; 2) two-sided tolerance factor calculation; 3) non-central t probability calculation; and 4) non-central t percentage point calculation. The unique approach to the non-central t routines is very computationally efficient.

TF, inventory number MFS-29839, is written in MicroSoft QuickBasic v2.0, and both an executable and source code are included in the package. The only requirement for running the provided executable is an IBM PC compatible with an 80x87 math co-processor. Compilation of the source code requires that the Microway 87SFL Math Function Software Library and MicroSoft QuickBasic V2.0 be installed on the system. The standard distribution medium for this package is a 5.25 inch 360K MS-DOS format diskette. Program and documentation $100.

COSMIC, The University of Georgia

382 East Broad St, Athens, GA 30602

404-542-3265   fax: 404-542-4807


JIAN EmployeeManualMaker
JIAN Tools For Sales, Inc. announced the release of their latest business development software template, EmployeeManualMaker, for creating a comprehensive employee handbook using your existing wordprocessing software. EmployeeManualMaker is available on IBM or Macintosh diskettes.

If you have employees, you should probably have a manual that defines company policies and benefits. EmployeeManualMaker is the quickest way to complete a thorough, specific manual for your employees.

A well-written employee manual gives your employees a clear picture of what's expected--what you expect from them and what they can expect from you. Rest easy knowing you've addressed issues vital to the well-being of your company, and protected the company as well.

What's In It . . . Over 155 pre-written, easy-to-customize policies and benefits--just edit the document to suit your company. EmployeeManualMaker provides a written foundation for building a strong internal organization. Valuable comments are woven throughout the text, and the documentation manual contains extensive reference materials from experts in the employee relations field.

EmployeeManualMaker is priced at $139. Stock was to be available to ship starting January 17, 1992.

JIAN Tools for Sales Inc

127 Second St, Top Floor, Los Altos, CA 94022

415-941-9191


Datel Fast 16 Channel D/A Board
Fast 16-channel PC/AT D/A Board Offers Simultaneous Update

Phase-synchronous analog outputs are needed in many signal processing, communications, DSP and ATE applications. The PC-422, being offered by DATEL, Inc., can update all eight or sixteen D/A channels simultaneously with no time skew between channels. The Mansfield, MA company has designed the board for use in IBM-PC/AT and compatible 16-bit computers. The concurrent feature is particularly useful in artificial waveform generation.

Each analog output channel on the PC-422 uses 12-bit D/A resolution and a 3 microsecond settling time, offering fast 330 KHz update rates per channel. Four output ranges with 5 Volts or 10 Volts full scale are individually selected for each channel. Special buffering allows all 8 or 16 channels to be updated at over 1 MHz from very high speed block transfers or DMA.

A crystal-stabilized software programmable timer trigger requests D/A updates using status or interrupt. An external trigger may also be software selected for precise tracking of external events. The entire system is ideal for background D/A refresh while foreground processing continues. General purpose digital I/O is included (4 inputs and 4 outputs) and a spare 16-bit counter for control of external devices.

The PC-422 receives all power from the AT bus and includes quiet on-board DC/DC power converters. Two models are offered. The PC422A has 8 channels and lists for $995 in single quantity. The 16-channel PC-422B is $1695. Both boards include a comprehensive user's manual and one year warranty. A software utility, model PC-422SET is $50 and exercises the board completely, including a disk file playback mode. The source code to PC-422SET is model PC-422SRC at $250. All products are available from stock to 4 weeks. Generous quantity discounts are offered.

DATEL, Inc., 11 Cabot Boulevard, Mansfield, MA 02048

(508)339-3000   FAX: (508)339-6356


OOPS Series Seminars for Clipper
Island Publishing recently announced a series of Object-Oriented Programming Systems seminars for Clipper application developers and programmers.

Curriculum for the Object-Oriented Programming Systems (OOPS) Seminar Series is designed to provide Clipper users the necessary information and technology for object-oriented programming with Clipper 5.01. The curriculum stresses the importance for Clipper users to understand and utilize object-oriented methodology and terminology before Nantucket's next release of Clipper (Clipper 5.x). "Savvy programmers are taking advantage of the power of objects right now," states Craig Yellick, co-author of Clipper 5: A Developer's Guide. "The learning curve is not steep and the payoff is immediate . . . everyone has the potential, they just need to make that vital first step. The rest comes naturally, and that is the mark of a true revolution. It is spontaneous and once started, cannot be stopped; such is the power of object-oriented programming."

Discover Object-Oriented Programming with Clipper 5 is a two-day seminar providing a foundation for complete understanding of object-oriented programming. The class covers the benefits, terminology, methodologies, features, and shows an object-oriented approach to software yielding: higher modularity, more generic programming, more reusable application code and designs, and less maintenance time. Programming Object-Oriented Applications with Clipper 5 is an intense, three day seminar examining all the steps involved when analyzing, designing, and programming an object-oriented application. The seminar provides practical application of theory and methodology to implement object-oriented programming immediately. Both Discover Object-Oriented Programming with Clipper 5 and Programming Object-Oriented Applications with Clipper 5 are lecture style presentations.

Instruction for the OOPS Seminar Series will be presented by Craig Yellick, and Ed Weber. Craig Yellick, co-author of Clipper 5: A Developer's Guide, has been designing and programming applications, libraries, and third-party products since the Winter '85 release of Clipper. Craig has been a speaker at the Nantucket Developer Conferences as well as an active seminar and user group speaker. Ed Weber has been consulting and providing Nantucket authorized training through his firm in Atlanta of which he is president and co-founder. Ed has been a speaker at Nantucket Developer Conferences, Navy Micro '89 and '90 shows, and at numerous user groups sites nationwide.

The Object-Oriented Programming Seminar Series begins January of 1992, with the first presentation scheduled for Chicago, Illinois. Seminar dates are scheduled in major cities across the United States and Canada through September of 1992. Information regarding locations, dates, registration, and tuition fees is available from Island Publishing. Please call (208) 667-3727, Fax (208) 664-6112, or write Island Publishing, Attn: Seminars, P.O. Box 2347, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83814.


Microsoft Word Challenge Results
In a recent test conducted by National Software Testing Laboratories (NSTL), nearly 8 out of 10 WordPerfect for DOS users preferred to use and would choose to acquire Microsoft Word for Windows version 2.0 over WordPerfect for Windows 5.1. In designing Word for Windows version 2.0, Microsoft concentrated on simplifying the tasks people do every day and making it an easy transition for WordPerfect for DOS users moving to the Windows graphical environment. To find out if their efforts paid off, Microsoft commissioned NSTL to conduct a comparison test, called the "Word Challenge," to see which product WordPerfect for DOS users preferred. The results were decisive. WordPerfect for DOS users preferred Word for Windows. Having completed this initial testing on randomly selected people, Microsoft will continue testing in major cities across the country to reaffirm the results.

"Most people assume they should upgrade to the Windows version of the same product they are currently using because they think it will be the easier one to learn and use," said Jeff Raikes, vice president, office systems, at Microsoft. "We are encouraging people to compare packages. Just like the familiar soft-drink taste test, we are taking the Word Challenge to WordPerfect users all across the nation so people can experience the ease of transition and use for themselves."

Microsoft focused tremendous attention on making it as easy as possible for WordPerfect for DOS users to transition to Word for Windows 2.0. Word for Windows offers Help for WordPerfect Users, which lets users select a WordPerfect command they know, and then watch as Word for Windows shows them how to do the equivalent command in Word for Windows With the Help for WordPerfect feature, users can learn Word for Windows while they get their work done.

Microsoft also paid close attention to file conversions, which are now virtually seamless between Word for Windows and WordPerfect for DOS. This is especially evident when working with commonly produced documents, such as letters, memos and reports. Users can easily move files back and forth between the two programs if necessary.

In addition, Word for Windows offers several features which users often need and which WordPerfect for Windows does not offer. These features include Drag and Drop text, which allows the users to move text easily, an integrated Grammar Checker, a graphical Print Merge Helper, an Envelope Generator, one-step bullets, built-in charting, built-in graphing, special font effects, and Object Linking and Embedding (OLE).

NSTL conducted the test by asking WordPerfect for DOS users, which were found via a newspaper ad, to make common changes, such as bolding, italicizing, and bulleting words and sentences, to a simple business letter. They were also asked to preview and print the letter as well as create an envelope for the letter, among other things. In addition, users were briefed to move on to the next task if they couldn't figure out how to accomplish a task within 15 minutes. At no time did NSTL identify which product of the two they were using. The tests were timed and users were given a survey asking them a number of questions, such as which product they preferred to use, which product was easier to learn, and which product they would choose to buy.

Microsoft is hearing a lot of praise from users who have switched from WordPerfect for DOS to Word for Windows. The following are some of their comments:

Michigan State University, College of Veterinary Medicine upgraded from WordPerfect for DOS to Word for Windows 2.0 after evaluating WordPerfect for Windows 5.1. "WordPerfect had plenty of time to give us a real word processor for Windows, but we really didn't find it to be very impressive," said Bryan Holland, senior systems analyst. "Microsoft, on the other hand, has done their research on what users want in a powerful word processor. Word for Windows goes above and beyond the capabilities we expected."

Ed Contrera, national sales manager for MicroCity, a computer manufacturer based in City of Industry, Calif., evaluated many word processors for Windows before choosing Word for Windows 2.0 for its intuitive interface. "We compared all the top graphical word processors and Word for Windows 2.0 is undoubtedly the best choice, with an interface unmatched by the others," stated Contrera. "I am very familiar with the WordPerfect commands. The transition to Word tor Windows has been simple and the time saved with Word for Windows command sequences is a real plus. "

Leonard Wolf, network and office automation manager at Calmax Corporation, which provides automation and integration services to large manufacturing plants and offices, has no regrets about switching to Word tor Windows 2.0. "I was a die-hard WordPerfect 5.1 user before choosing Word for Windows 2.0. Some people might see it as a hindrance to move to a new word processor, but if you give them an easy transition, like Microsoft has done with the Help for WordPerfect Users feature in Word for Windows, it makes a difference to move to this feature-rich word processing environment." File conversion was a concern, but after experiencing how easily WordPerfect files are recognized by Word for Windows, he knew he had to make the switch. "Within an hour of working with Word for Windows I realized I didn't need WordPerfect anymore so I deleted it from the hard disk. I don't regret it. I won't go back to WordPerfect."


NEC PowerMate C Series Systems
NEC Technologies, Inc. introduced the PowerMate C Series, a family of streamlined, desktop network stations designed for environments that could utilize an additional degree of security not available with standard PCs and technologically advanced graphics capabilities not previously offered in this price range.

The low-cost PowerMate C Series consists of the PowerMate 286c, with a suggested retail price of $749, and the PowerMate SX/20c, which has a suggested retail price of $1,299. Because these systems are offered without a floppy drive, software cannot be copied or stolen and the network is protected from viral or pirated software. For security purposes, both systems feature power-on, keyboard and network server mode password protection, as well as parallel and serial interface control. Additional security options are offered with the higher-end PowerMate SX/20c.

The PowerMate C Series incorporates NEC's proprietary FLASH ROM technology, a software upgradeable BIOS which provides standardization and compatibility--two crucial features in a network environment. FLASH ROM technology enables users to upgrade the BIOS of the PowerMate C Series quickly, by downloading over the network or by diskette, eliminating the need to open the cabinet to replace costly ROM chips. Corporate users can easily maintain all new PowerMate systems at the same BIOS revision level and may even have the BIOS adapted for specific applications.

Weighing 18 pounds, the C Series is streamlined in size, 14" W x 16" D x 3.5" H, to meet the limited space requirements of many network environments such as banks, hotels and retail stores. Two storage bays and two 16-bit ISA expansion slots are provided. High-speed memory is easily and inexpensively expanded to 16MB on the 286c and to 26MB on the SX/20c, via SIMMs installed directly on the system board, leaving both expansions slots open for system customization. The C Series is available either diskless or with a 1.44MB 3.5" floppy drive as well as an optional 45MB, 60MB, 120MB, or 240MB hard disk drive. Both computers feature standard interfaces: parallel, serial, keyboard, mouse and VGA display ports. The 101-key mechanical keyboard has 12 function keys and separate numeric and cursor control pads.

THE POWERMATE 286c - ENTRY LEVEL NETWORK WORKSTATION

Based on Intel's 80286 microprocessor running at 12 MHz, the PowerMate 286c is the entry-level system in NEC's new PowerMate C Series. It is the best choice for cost-conscious customers utilizing Windows.

With 256KB video RAM expandable to 512KB, the 286c provides video performance usually found only in more expensive systems. Once 512KB video RAM is installed, the PowerMate 286c supports 640 x 480 resolution with 256 colors, 800 x 600 resolution with 16 colors and 1024 x 768 resolution with 16 colors and 132 column text mode.

While its security features make the 286c system ideal for a network environment, its graphics performance and expandability give it the flexibility to function as a low-cost stand alone workstation as well.

THE POWERMATE SX/20 - OUTSTANDING GRAPHICS

The PowerMate SX/20c incorporates the standard features of the PowerMate C Series with several additional performance characteristics, including additional security options and NEC's most advanced graphics technologies--Image Video and ImageSync.

Based on Intel's 80386SX microprocessor running at 20 MHz, the PowerMate SX/20c is ideal for the general business user running Windows in a networking environment; while its power, graphics performance and expandability allow it to work equally well as a low-cost stand alone workstation.

Both PowerMate C Series computers provide power-on, keyboard and network node password protection, as well as parallel and serial interface control, but the PowerMate SX/20c offers two additional security options: Diskette Write Control - prevents writing to the diskette drive, but allows reading so that information can be added to the network but not removed; Diskette Boot Control - eliminates system start-up from diskette drive preventing users from circumventing network security by booting from the drive.

The more powerful SX/20c also delivers superior graphics, utilizing Image Video and ImageSync, two exclusive new NEC graphics innovations. Image video technology is the first local video bus designed into a desktop PC. This unique feature overcomes the video bottleneck that users encounter in graphics intensive environments, such as Windows, by operating the video bus at the same speed as the processor (20MHz) rather than the traditional 8MHz bus speed found in other PCs. The most dramatic benefit of Image Video technology is that it allows users to run Windows in very high resolution (1024 x 768) while displaying up to 256 colors simultaneously--and still maintain performance.

ImageSync, another exclusive NEC technology, allows the PowerMate SX/20c to sense when it is connected to one of NEC's new MultiSync FG monitors and adjust to the highest possible refresh rate of that monitor, resulting in clearer, flicker-free images.

The PowerMate SX/20c features integrated Super VGA with 256KB video RAM expandable to lMB. With 1 MB video RAM installed, the PowerMate SX/20c supports 640 x 480 resolutions with 256 colors, 800 x 600 resolutions with 256 colors, 1024 x 768 resolutions non-interlaced with 256 colors and 1280 x 1024 resolutions with 16 colors in Windows.

AFFORDABILITY/AVAILABILITY

The suggested retail price of the PowerMate 286c is $749 without a floppy disk drive and $849 with a floppy disk drive. The PowerMate SX/20c has a suggested retail price of $1,299 without a disk drive and $1,399 with a floppy disk drive. Both products are available now through NEC's nationwide network of authorized resellers.

NEC Technologies Inc

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719

508-264-8000


NEC Lowers UltraLite Prices
NEC Technologies, Inc., announced price reductions for two of its notebook computers, the UltraLite SX/20 and the UltraLite III.

Formerly, the suggested retail price for the UltraLite SX/20 notebook computer 40 MB version was $3,599 and is now $3,199. The 60 MB version had a $3,899 suggested retail price which is now $3,399.

Suggested retail prices for the UltraLite III notebook computer have been reduced from $3,699 to $2,999.

"NEC is committed to offering affordable portable computing solutions for our users," said Bob Levin, director of marketing for NEC's portable computers. "These price changes reflect NEC's strong effort to remain competitive in the ever-changing and intense notebook computer marketplace."

The UltraLite SX/20 notebook computer is designed for users who require the portability and functionality of a desktop computer, including SX-based power, VGA graphics, internal floppy drive and the option of a 40 or 60 MB hard drive. The UltraLite SX/20 notebook computer is the only notebook computer that lets you access high-speed peripherals such as NEC's optional Intersect CD-ROM reader.

The 4.8 pound UltraLite III notebook computer offers users a lightweight alternative without sacrificing power. It is the ideal notebook computer for mobile professionals.

Both of these notebook computers are available through NEC's network of authorized dealers.

NEC Technologies, Inc., a leading supplier of computer, peripherals and CD-ROM software for the U.S. market, is an affiliate of NEC Corporation, a $26 billion manufacturer of computer, communications, semiconductor and home entertainment products.

NEC Technologies Inc

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719

508-264-8000


MailMiser Plus v1.3 Zip Code Data
MailMiser Plus Ver. 1.3 - New MiserData feature. This is a database of over 43,000 ZIP Codes with associated geographic data for the fastest possible data entry and expanded list selection/extraction capability.

Functions include look-up/fill-in of City. State, ZIP Code Type, County Name and County FIPS Code, based on the 5 digit ZIP Code entered by the user. Gives unparalleled entry speed and data accuracy (no misspellings or similar mistakes, since its automatic). A typical use of county info is extracting a list for given counties covered by a salesman. ZIP Code Type helps assure appropriate mailings (select/deselect PO boxes, Unique ZIPs, etc.).

Priced at just $195 retail. Semi-annual updates of the ZIP Code database will be available at $59 each retail. Initial shipments were scheduled for January 15th.

MailMiser Ver. 1.3 (Standard Edition) - The original MailMiser continues to be priced at $145 retail and is shipping, now. Includes many new features as noted below. version 1.3 Enhancements (included in both MailMiser and MailMiser Plus):

* File Imports are much easier and about 6 times as fast as those in Ver. 1.2. The file import process is based on matching source file information against list box choices for MailMiser fields - everything you need to import a list is on-screen at once.

* 3rd Class Pre-sorts are changed to conform with new (Dec. 15, 1991) Domestic Mail Manual requirements. The new pre-sort reporting data is provided at the end of the mail piece run. The new Delivery Point Barcode format for Post Office Boxes also is supported.

* Now Printer Drivers are included for: Mannesman-Tally and Taneum line printers; Barcode Addressing Corp., Bryce, Rena, Datatech (Scriptomatic), and Primages direct impression envelope printers.

* 1st and 3rd Class Presort Count- are given prior to printing labels or envelopes. This allows analysis of the mailing, determining its qualification for discounts, and helps avoid wasting consumables.

* Salutation Field is added to allow export of address information with greeting to compatible word processing software (WordPerfect, etc.). This allows generation of personalized letters for marketing and similar purposes.

* Print to Field/Device options allow more operational flexibility and getting the best line printer throughput.

Kestrel Enterprises, P.O. Box 88663, Carol Stream, IL 60188

(708) 293-1910


Berkeley '92 After Dark Contest
Berkeley Systems, Inc. has announced the kickoff of its 1992 After Dark Display Contest. This year's contest has been expanded to cover both Windows and Macintosh environments, and a new category for Computer Artists has been added. First place winners in the Macintosh Programmer, Windows Programmer, and Computer Artist categories will receive a $2,500 shopping spree from MacConnection or PC Connection, and a $10,000 Cash Grand Prize will be awarded for Best Entry Overall. Winning displays will be included in future releases of After Dark products, and all winners receive an engraved, Flying Toaster trophy. Entrants should call Berkeley Systems for entry forms, (510) 540-5535 x1000. The deadline for submissions is midnight, April 1, 1992.

All-Star Judges

Entries will be judged by the following blue ribbon panel of computer industry luminaries: Jerry Borrell, Editor-in-Chief of Macworld; Jon Zilber, Editor of MacUser; John C. Dvorak; Henry Norr, Editor of MacWEEK; Mike Edelhart, Publisher/Editor-inChief of PC Computing; Philip Lemmons, Editor-in-Chief of PC World; David Needle, Editor of Computer Currents; Fred Davis of PC Week; Christopher Barr, West Coast Editor of PC Magazine; Paul Schindler, Editor-at-Large for Windows Magazine; Sandra Rosenzweig, Editor of MPC Magazine; Margaret Swart, Art Director of Publish Magazine; Cathy Abes, Associate Editor of Macworld; Allan Lundell of Mondo 2000 and Becky Waring, Executive Editor of newMEDlA Age Magazine. The judging will take place on April 3 at the Berkeley Systems offices. Entries will be judged on originality, functionality and appearance.

"The contest is a great way to get users involved with the product," said William Chase, contest coordinator. "This year we've included an artist's category because some of the best ideas come from non-programmers." Berkeley Systems' last contest provided several displays that are now shipping in More After Dark, the brisk selling collection of add-on displays for After Dark.

More Prizes

Prizes for second and third place finishers include the new NEC 5FG 17" monitor, an ATI Graphics ULTRA Windows Accelerator Card, an Infinity 88 Turbo Removable Cartridge Drive from PLI, a Prometheus Pro Modem Ultima 14,400 bps modem, a Hewlett-Packard DeskWriter C or DeskJet 500 C color printer, and the Porta CD-ROM drive and two CDs from CD Technology.

Entries

Programmers must submit working After Dark modules that run under either the Windows or Macintosh version of After Dark, depending on category. Everything a programmer needs to write an After Dark module comes with the After Dark package, including programming examples in C and Pascal. Artists must submit digitized artwork in any Macintosh or Windows format, along with a script or storyboard detailing the proposed display. Artists may also submit animation loops or QuickTime sequences.

Screen Saving

The screen saving displays in After Dark extend the life of monitors. When machines are left on but unattended, images can "burn in" to the screen, causing permanent damage. After Dark prevents bum-in by automatically displaying entertaining or useful screen art.

Formed in 1985, Berkeley Systems, Inc. develops and publishes mainstream software for the Macintosh and IBM PC markets and disability software for Macintosh users. Mainstream products for the Macintosh include After Dark, More After Dark and Stepping Out ll, the software big screen. Long recognized as a leader in the disability market, Berkeley Systems publishes outSPOKEN, inTOUCH, ScreenKeys, and inLARGE. Berkeley Systems won the 1990 Computerworld Smithsonian Award for outSPOKEN, the talking Macintosh interface for the blind.

Berkeley Systems Inc., 2095 Rose St, Berkeley, CA 94709

510-540-5535


Spellcasting 201: Sorcerer Appliance
Ernie Eaglebeak, the nerdish Freshman who single handedly restored the prestigious campus of Sorcerer University in Spellcasting 101: Sorcerers Get All the Girls, is about to graduate to Sophomore status in a new sequel, Spellcasting 201: The Sorcerer's Appliance. In this newest adventure, Ernie aspires to join a fraternity. But in order to attain frat status, he must first make his way in and around the halls of Sorcerer University to complete a series of ridiculously impossible hazing tasks - traditionally known as Hell Week. Created from the scandalous imagination of award winning designer Steve Meretzky, Spellcasting 201: The Sorcerer's Appliance is published by Legend Entertainment Company and distributed by Accolade.

According to Steve Meretzky, "Spellcasting 201 features more babes, more brewskis, and more bad jokes." The satirical humor in the tradition of Animal House continues its popular rampage as, once again, Ernie does his best to fit into the social structure of Sorcerer University by learning to cast hilarious spells, solving ribald puzzles and interacting with gorgeous women.

In addition to the tongue-in check humor, Spellcasting 201 marks the return of the critically acclaimed Legend interface, including the Legend screen design with pushbutton options and the unique menu-driven parser designed to accommodate hundreds of complicated commands. Superb animated color graphics offer a view of hundreds of Ernie's encounters, and players are treated to realistic digitized sounds and an encore performance from the musical composer of Spellcasting 101.

In Spellcasting 201, Ernie Eaglebeak is challenged by his chicken-suited pledgemaster to complete such tasks as pinning a moustache on a statue high atop the campus clocktower. Ernie realizes that he must have help to be successful, and the only way to get it is to create it. After all, this is Sorcerer University. So players must assist Ernie in locating and then using the infamous Sorcerer's Appliance. While Ernie will benefit in a number of ways from the Appliance, his crowning achievement will be his ability to harness its powers and create Eve, the ideal woman. Once Eve emerges from the Appliance, together she and Ernie can scour the turrets, tunnels and even the bedrooms of Sorcerer University in search of clues and spells.

"Little does Ernie know that he's about to embark on an adventure much more dangerous than completing the tasks assigned by his pledgemaster," explained Robert Bates, president of Legend Entertainment. "There's an evil conspiracy brewing in the bowels of the University, and Ernie must discover it and stop it before the future of college life is warped forever."

During gameplay the campus clocktower constantly reminds Ernie that time is of the essence, indicating that hanging around in one place too long can be hazardous. "Since everything in Spellcasting 201 is interwoven, you must keep track of where Ernie is and when he is supposed to be there," noted Bates. "Ernie has a lot of deadlines to meet in this game, and missing one can create a domino effect that will basically screw up his entire day." Bates added that Meretzky has included a nymph that periodically scampers into Ernie's path to remind him of his commitments and nudge him in the right direction. "Obviously a unique perk of Sorcerer University. We should all be so lucky," added Bates.

As with its predecessor, Spellcasting 201 features two modes of play - Nice and Naughty. "While one mode shows off the hi-jinks that "really" go on during campus life, both modes contain the fun, outrageous humor and puzzles popularized in Spellcasting 101," concluded Bates. "The parody begun in Spellcasting 101 continues in this sequel that is even more fun and more scandalous than before. As in Spellcasting 101, Spellcasting 201 is a refreshing change of pace from the serious, more traditional adventure games."

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Accolade was to debut Spellcasting 201: The Sorcerer's Appliance in its booth at CES as the first product the company will distribute under an exclusive distribution agreement just reached with Legend Entertainment Company.

According to Rob Bonham, Accolade's vice president of sales, Accolade has obtained long tern rights to distribute Spellcasting 201 and subsequent products from Chantilly, Virginia based Legend Entertainment Company in North America, Europe, Australia, Japan and other Pacific Rim territories.

"Legend Entertainment has a proven track record for creating best-selling, critically acclaimed adventure games with a unique emphasis on storytelling," explained Bonham referring to Spellcasting 101: Sorcerers Get All the Girls and TIMEQUEST, the first two games from Legend Entertainment. "Now with Spellcasting 201, the sequel to Spellcasting 101, we are entering this distribution agreement with Legend at the height of the company's popularity. " Bonham added that the genre for literary adventure games is one which appeals to an extremely loyal and well-informed consumer, and that Legend Entertainment is probably the most well respected publisher for creating such games. "As distributors of Legend's forthcoming products, we are very excited to contribute to the company's future success and to this category."

Commenting on why Accolade was selected to distribute products from Legend Entertainment, Robert Bates, president of Legend Entertainment said, "As a veteran of the computer game industry, Accolade has proven itself a leader in publishing and distributing a variety of different game categories. At Legend, we are impressed with this expertise and look forward to being a part of the Accolade network of Entertainment software."

Accolade

550 S. Winchester Blvd, Suite 200, San Jose, CA 95128


Jack Nicklaus Golf & Course Design
Visitors to the Winter Consumer Electronics Show got to witness the debut of Jack Nicklaus' Golf & Course Design: Signature Edition, the first 256-color VGA golf simulation and Course Designer for IBM PC and compatible computers. The ultimate sequel to the most successful line of golf simulations on the market, Jack Nicklaus' Golf & Course Design: Signature Edition is developed in association with Jack Nicklaus, Jack Nicklaus Productions and Sculptured Software. Described as "the true gold standard of golf games'' Jack Nicklaus' Golf & Course Design: Signature Edition features two gorgeous 256-color VGA courses; a stunning Course Designer that lets players create their own courses in 256 blazing colors; and fully-digitized male and female players, including the computerized swing of Jack Nicklaus himself. It is scheduled to release during the first quarter of 1992.

"This remarkable program has better graphics, faster speed, and more combined features than any other golf game on the market," said Levins. "It's beautiful, fun and challenging too. For the true golf aficionado, there really is no other choice."

The gameplay more than lives up to the Nicklaus standard of highest quality. Players can challenge two of Jack's finest course designs -- water intensive English Turn Golf Club (New Orleans), home of the USF&G Classic, and rugged Sherwood Country Club (Thousand Oaks, CA ), site of the annual Ronald McDonald-Greg Norman Tour. The game features the widest variety of golf shots, the most realistic and easiest-to-use interface, a faster redraw screen after every shot, as well as complete PGA statistics for individual players which are updated after every round.

Also contained in this edition is a new Tournament mode with an option to play against computer or human players. Players can also customize their computer player so that they play just like the pro of their choice. Finally, Accolade's acclaimed "Power Bar" user-interface has bee re-positioned horizontally to allow a wider viewing screen.

"The level of realism is truly amazing," said Levins. Naming just a few of the realistic touches, the game contains digitized horizons, trees and objects, and fully-contoured, smoothly bit-mapped fairways, greens and bunkers. The product contains music and a wide variety of digitized sound effects including the natural sound of the ball landing in the water, or on the green, as w ell as a different swing sound depending on the type of club being used. With crowd responses throughout the game, players will feel like they have an audience watching their every shot. Further, the game adjusts ball trajectories to account for club selection and loft, as well as for terrain contours. And animated flagsticks and more realistic ball landings, rolls and bounces, along with fast, easy gameplay give players the most complete computer golf experience available.

Using the new tape measure feature, players can get an exact on-screen reading of the distance between the placement of their ball to any other location from the overhead view of the hole. Computer golfers may find this feature helpful when deciding which golf club to use based on the distance they need to hit the ball.

Jack Nicklaus' Golf & Course Design: Signature Edition also features the first 256-color VGA palette Course Designer. This remarkable utility lets players create their own signature courses, complete with super-realistic objects and backgrounds, down to the finest, most dazzling detail with push-button ease. And once a hole is created, it can be played instantly.

From a ready-made inventory of backgrounds and objects such as trees, shrubs, hazards and buildings, players can landscape their own course -- or, using the Course Designer's sophisticated paint program, design and create original objects. Whether working from the existing library of art, using broad brush strokes, or painting pixel-by-pixel, it's all easy to do. Craft hills and valleys, fairways and rough, bunkers, lakes and greens with as much detail as desired. Yardage markings and suggested par will automatically appear as a dogleg is lengthened or shortened, and the program allows players to designate up to five pin locations on the green. And players can view work in progress at any time, from any point on the course or hole.

"Other golf games may look good or play good, but nothing puts it all together like Jack Nicklaus' Golf & Course Design: Signature Edition," added Levins. "There is no better golf game for your computer."

Accolade

550 S. Winchester Blvd, Suite 200, San Jose, CA 95128


Star Control II: Ur-Quan Masters
Accolade announced a 2nd Quarter release of Star Control II: The Ur-Quan Masters, a hybrid action/role-playing adventure set in the spectacular science fiction universe established in the original, award-winning Star Control. Created by Paul Reiche III and Fred Ford, this long-awaited sequel once again pits the player against the iron-clawed fascism of the evil Ur-Quan Hierarchy.

"Star Control II combines the strategy/action elements of the original with sophisticated science fiction role-playing," said producer Pam Levins. "There's plenty of stunning space combat, but now it's contained within an intricate plot structure. To win, you still have to plan strategy and fight like a veteran starship commander ... but you also have to talk with alien races like an interstellar diplomat and piece together puzzling scenarios like a senior intelligence analyst."

"There are plots within plots," added Paul Reiche 111. "You can't just blast away at things. You have to ask yourself: What do these Aliens really want?"

Star Control II lets you travel hyperspace to explore and liberate more than 500 unique star systems, each with a full complement of planets and moons. Visually, the game raises space adventure to a new plateau with its ultra-brilliant 256-color graphics of hyperspace, 3-D rotating planets and fractal-generated planet surfaces, as well as its detailed alien portraits and stunning ship-to-ship combat imagery. Add to that a remarkable soundtrack of pure digitized sound and music unlike any heard before on the IBM PC.

The game returns you to the 23rd century star clusters introduced in the original Star Control, chosen Best Science Fiction Game of 1990 by Video Games & Computer Entertainment. The story begins with your character stationed in a vast cave network beneath the surface of Unzervald, a beautiful, earthlike planet located on the periphery of what was once Alliance space.

Since the war with the Ur-Quan Hierarchy raged through nearby star systems nearly 20 years ago, your research colony has had no contact with Alliance freedom fighters. Despite the risk of capture, your team of Alliance scientists continues to investigate an ancient underground Precursor installation, hoping to discover technological relics that could turn the course of the war against the Ur-Quan.

Actual gameplay begins with a call to action -- you have been chosen to leave the planet and find out what happened to Earth and the Alliance of Free Stars, and, if necessary, aid them against the Ur-Quan. The vessel you command is a huge starship, constructed entirely underground using Precursor designs and fabricators unearthed during the past two decades.

This gigantic, reconfigurable flagship is capable of launching entire squadrons of mixed-race combat vessels, and can be laden with enough weaponry to devastate an entire fleet of Ur-Quan Dreadnoughts. Even with all this awesome firepower you'll face challenge after increasingly difficult challenge in your quest to determine the fate of earth and defeat the Ur-Quan and their vicious new battle slaves.

"So now there are 25 distinctly different spacecraft to master, ships such as the Vux lntruder, the Druuge Mauler, and the Slyandro Probe," added Levins. "They add new tactical and strategic considerations to your planning."

An additional new feature is the exciting Super Mclee Game, where up to 28 starships can battle in ship-to-ship interstellar combat. A player can create, name, and save his own team of up to 14 ships from both Star Control and Star Control II, then challenge a different team of 14 ships created by a friend or the awesome computer opponent.

"Fans of Star Control will find Star Control II a more-than-worthy sequel," concluded Levins. "And those who never played the original can jump right into an experience they won't forget."

Accolade

550 S. Winchester Blvd, Suite 200, San Jose, CA 95128


Road & Track Grand Prix Unlimited
Accolade, the industry leader in computer driving simulations, announced its exclusive association with Road & Track magazine in the creation of Road & Track Presents: Grand Prix Unlimited. Grand Prix Unlimited combines d thrilling Grand Prix driving simulator with an easy-to-use course architect that lets you create your own custom Grand Prix race courses. The simulation, available in April for IBM PC and compatible computers, also features customized car performances and equipment set-ups, stunning digitized graphics, and a sense of realism unprecedented in the driving category.

Grand Prix Unlimited was designed under the exclusive multi-year licensing agreement with Hachette Magazine, Inc., publishers of the nation's most popular driving periodical, Road & Track . "We're extremely pleased to be associated with Road & Track, the only mass-market car magazine that regularly features Grand Prix reporting," said Sam Nelson, producer of the game. "This is a top-of-the-line product, and we'll benefit in many ways from this relationship." Road & Track currently boasts a circulation of more than 700,000 readers.

Grand Prix Unlimited puts you in the driver's seat like never before. Created by Tom Loughry, the award-winning designer of Accolade's critically acclaimed best-seller, Test Drive III: The Passion, this stunning new simulation features all the leading Formula One cars rocketing through a 3-D terrain so complete, so detailed, so continuous and yet variable, that you really feel like you're out on the grueling Grand Prix circuit. New, truer-to-life weather conditions also enhance the realistic feel of the experience.

"The product really benefits from our access to the Road & Track racing knowledge and graphic library," stated Nelson. 'We felt that to be as realistic as possible, it was imperative to get the most accurate information possible."

Each of the top Formula One teams including the Ferrari, McLaren and Williams are accurately modeled in terms of power curves, drag coefficiency and adjustable set-up parameters. Car handling, too, has been made more realistic than ever before. Grand Prix Unlimited gives players the ability to customize their "ride" by adjusting steering, suspension, wing angles, gear ratios, and more. And for sheer enjoyment, you can't beat the game's unlimited replay facilities, which include fast forward, reverse, freeze-frame and more. Crashing has never been so much fun.

Perhaps the most amazing aspect of the simulation is its unique course architect which offers a multitude of design options. This amazing utility lets you quickly and easily modify the existing race course, or create new ones from scratch. Using square tiles, you lay out the terrain and road you want to race on. Once you map out your course, you can then line it with an entire library of objects such as signs, people and buildings. "The beauty of the course architect is that you can change the route anytime you want. It can be as simple as moving a single road barrier, or as complex as individually configuring a brand new course, tile by tile," concluded Nelson. "With a large number of tiles available, you can build just about any type of course you can dream up. Given the right information, you could recreate the entire Grand Prix circuit."

Accolade

550 S. Winchester Blvd, Suite 200, San Jose, CA 95128


ComputerEyes/RT Frame Grabber Swr
Digital Vision, Inc. has just announced new Windows 3.0 system software for its ComputerEyes/RT 24-bit color video frame grabber for IBM PC and compatible computers. This new software offers a great benefit for Windows users and lists for only $49.95.

ComputerEyes/RT, released in July 1991, is a hardware device that allows users to capture images from any standard video source (live TV, video camera, VCR, etc.), display them directly in all VGA, SuperVGA and EGA modes, and save captured images in all popular PC image file formats. ComputerEyes/RT is unique in that it offers full 24-bit color real-time (1/30th of a second) image capture for only $599.95. Using the Windows software for ComputerEyes/RT, users can take advantage of all the features and benefits of the Windows environment. Near-real-time live video can be previewed in a variable size window while controlling brightness, contrast, and colors. Captured video images can also be display in variable sizes and then exported as standard BMP, PCX, or TIF files. Images may also be easily copied into other Windows applications such as PageMaker, Corel Draw, Paintbrush, or fax programs via the clipboard, making for a quick, seamless integrated environment. The Windows version of ComputerEyes/RT also features on-line help and support for all SuperVGA and HiColor displays for superb looking images.

Says company president, David Pratt, "More and more multimedia, database, industrial, and OEM applications are written in Windows. Windows support, now added to our varied DOS applications softwares, will allow more of these applications to take advantage of our low-cost imaging board." He adds, "The ComputerEyes/RT hardware was designed to be an ideal, long-lived platform for integrated imaging applications. We, and other developers, will continue to develop software to make it an effective, yet low-cost, imaging tool."

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Digital Vision, Inc. is pleased to announce new software enhancements for ComputerEyes/RT, a 24-bit color video frame grabber for IBM PC and compatible computers. The new enhancements, now included free with ComputerEyes/RT, further increase the value of the frame grabber package.

ComputerEyes/RT, released in July 1991, is a hardware device that allows users to capture images from any standard video source (live TV, video camera, VCR, etc.), display them directly in all VGA, SuperVGA and EGA modes, and save captured images in all popular PC image file formats. ComputerEyes/RT is unique in that it offers full 24-bit color real-time (1/30th of a second) image capture for only $599.95.

CineMaker

CineMaker in an exciting new animation capture program for ComputerEyes/RT. It has the same familiar look and feel as the EYES program that is included with ComputerEyes/RT, but its purpose is to capture sequential video frames, not just a single image. CineMaker captures animations in resolutions up to 256 x 200 at up to 18 frames per second, the maximum capture rate being dependent on the computer speed, capture buffer location (RAM or hard disk), and image size. Once captured, the animations may be saved as Autodesk FLI files for Animator or Grasp, IBM M00 files for IBM LinkWay, or as ComputerEyes/RT SNP files. Animations may be loaded and played with other programs, or with the PLAY.EXE program included with the CineMaker software. Other CineMaker software features include the ability to adjust colors after the capture, image compression, and variable frame delays for timelapsed animations.

HiColor Support

With the growing popularity of VGA cards capable of 32 thousand and 16 million colors comes a new version of ComputerEyes/RT software. This software runs under DOS and can capture and display HiColor images to display cards such as the Hercules Graphics Station Card, ATI VGA Wonder XL, Cardinal 200, Diamond Speedstar HiColor, Trident, Everex True Color, and all Tseng 4000/Sierra DAC VGAs. A new HiColor preview window allows superb viewing in both preview and capture modes. All ComputerEyes/RT standard software features and options are included. Export files include TIF, TGA, BMP, PCX, GIF and others in 8-,16-, and full 24-bit modes.

Free Download Service

Current users of ComputerEyes/RT (or any other Digital Vision product) can download all current shipping softwares including the new CineMaker and HiColor Support Software for free from either the Digital Vision Hot Line BBS (617-329-8387) or CompuServe forum (GO DIGVIS).

"In developing the ComputerEyes/RT product, we put much emphasis on designing a solid, low-cost, and long-lived hardware platform for software developers to support. You'll see more and more applications both from us and from third party developers as the industry moves toward integrating products and applications for specific solutions," says company president, David Pratt.

Digital Vision Inc, 270 Bridge St, Dedham, MA 02026

617-329-5400


MicroSim Filter Synthesis Option
MicroSim is pleased to announce that the filter synthesis option now supports the synthesis of passive LC ladders. The passive filter synthesis capability allows you to quickly compute and evaluate the inductor and capacitor values by selecting either minimum inductor or minimum capacitor configurations. The implementation of passive filter synthesis is a complementary addition to our existing support for active filter realizations.

Filter synthesis now supports the International Microelectronic Products' (IMP) family of low pass programmable linear phase continuous time filters. These devices offer Bessel and equi-ripple linear phase filters with cut-off frequencies from 175 kHz to 30 MHz. Filter synthesis' support of the IMP 42C555, 42C455, and the 42C451 families will generate a file that can be used to program the register information for these devices. This makes it easy to explore tradeoffs and to optimally customize device performance for your system.

To assist you in the specification of your filter design, the Preferences Screen allows you to configure your filter synthesis for the kind of work you normally do. Filter specification can be customized to accept stop band properties or filter order. For band pass and band reject, filter specification can alternatively be by upper and lower bounds or by center frequency and bandwidth. Suitable default frequency units (Hz through GHz) can be specified as well as whether the filter is a continuous or sampled-data filter.

In addition to gain, phase, and group delay, the enhanced Bode Plots submenu allows you to examine linearized phase and phase delay. The Bode plots, as well as the previously supported step response and impulse response plots, provide a cursor for zooming and displaying plot values numerically.

Filter synthesis is offered as an option to the Design Center. A full set of classical approximations, non-standard transfer function synthesis, sensitivity analysis, and delay equalization are all standard features. Filter synthesis is available on any IBM-PC compatible or Macintosh II computer, and sells for $900.00 on either platform. For more information about MicroSim Corporation's Design Center with filter synthesis, please call us at (714) 770-3022, or toll free at (800) 245-3022.

MicroSim, 20 Fairbanks, Irvine, CA 92718


Spectrum HoloByte in Europe
Effective immediately, MicroProse, creator of such popular titles as Gunship 2000 and Railroad Tycoon, will distribute Spectrum HoloByte products in Europe. This exclusive arrangement will be limited to titles for all personal-computer formats.

Under terms of the agreement, MicroProse U.K., a division of MicroProse of Hunt Valley, Md., will manage translation, localization, distribution, advertising and publicity for Spectrum HoloByte floppy-based games and simulations, including the just-released Falcon 3.0 and Super Tetris. The agreement also calls for MicroProse to convert selected Spectrum HoloByte titles to the Commodore Amiga All administrative functions pertaining to this arrangement will remain in the U S

"MicroProse has a superb track record for effective distribution in the European computer-entertainment market, having experienced phenomenal sales of its own products there," said Spectrum HoloByte CEO Gilman Louie "We're confident in their ability to repeat that success with all of our forthcoming titles "

MicroProse is a publicly traded corporation and is listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the symbol MPRS. Spectrum HoloByte is a division of Sphere Inc. and is privately held.

Spectrum HoloByte

2061 CHALLENGER DR, ALAMEDA CA 94501


Wireless TraveLite Touchscreen PC
DFM brings freedom to the portable pen-based market - freedom to roam around within a building or on a loading dock.

An internal spread spectrum transceiver gives the TraveLite user an opportunity to move around throughout a Novell network environment, and receive or enter data while on the go.

Suggested applications are numerous, such as dock-side inventory management, warehouse stock control, order "picking," and other jobs that require data management and mobility.

With the RF option, the TraveLite becomes a real tool for the mobile professional. This fully compatible touchscreen AT, with RF, maintains its economical form factor - 8.5" x 12.4" x 1.6" size, and 5.5 pounds.

The DFM RF option is fully compatible with Novell NetWare. Data rate is 242 Kbps, or 121 Kbps with multiple channels. Range can be up to 800 feet indoors, and longer outdoors. Installation requires no cabling, no FCC site licensing and no alignment.

To install, the user adds a NIC to the NetWare file server, and the TraveLite will then be able to access the entire Novell network. DFM's radio-specific media access protocol ensures efficient use of the RF channels over a wide variety of traffic conditions.

Designed for the mobile professional, the user can input data through pop-up keyboards on the touchscreen, or plug in the optional Qwerty keyboard. An optional modem permits uploading or downloading from any telephone outlet. (The TraveLite will be fully capable of running pen-based operating systems, when they are perfected, by merely loading the system and programs onto the hard drive.)

Standard configuration includes 80C286 CPU, 1,000 x 1,000 point resolution touchscreen, 10 inch diagonal EGA LCD display, cold cathode fluorescent backlight, 12 MHz zero wait state operation, 2 MB of RAM, 512 KB ROM "A" drive, 20 MB hard drive, 100 key separate keyboard, battery, charger and carrying case.

Options include 40, 60 and 80 MB hard drives, 16 MHz operation, internal modem and send fax, 80C287 math coprocessor, digitized speech, board/microphone/speaker, bar code wand, docking unit, 4 or 8 MB of RAM, even a spread spectrum Ethernet internal transceiver. Connectors include microphone/headset, serial port (115Kbit), bar code, parallel port (bi-directional), external keyboard, CGA/MDA/EGA color monitor, power adapter, and docking unit (16 bit). Suggested retail sales price for one standard TraveLite unit is $3,466.

Many power-saving features have been added to stretch battery life to more than 31/2 hours of normal use, even longer without backlighting the screen. Power is turned off and on at the chip level. Disk drives and backlights automatically power down when not in use. The battery takes about two hours to fully charge.

From the beginning, making the computer usable by a computer illiterate was one of the primary goals of DFM. To accomplish this, a touchscreen applications generator has been written to provide a variety of touchscreen data collection tools - touch boxes, nested pick lists, 10-key and Qwerty keyboards, custom entry pads, sliding scales, check boxes, etc. In addition, a resident database collects all information entered using these tools. Conditional branching and calculation capabilities extend the versatility of the applications generator.

DFM Systems, 1601-48th St, West Des Moines, IA 50265

515-225-6744


Coup-de-plume Handwriting Recognition
J. H. Shannon Associates, Inc. announces the availability of software for robust, untrained handwriting recognition of discrete characters and cursive script words, independent of the style of the writer, in a commercial environment. Practical pen-based computer applications can now be implemented based on COUP-DE-PLUME... (stroke of the pen). Under development for three years, Coup-de-plume is an algorithmic procedure to input, recognize and transform handwritten script. Coup-de-plume manifests itself in a family of software products designed to integrate script communication into pen-based applications under commercially available operating systems. The family includes device drivers for various graphic digitizer tablets and operating systems, and programs for evaluation of script recognition and validation of vendor tablets.

Immediately available is the Coup-de-plume device driver featuring recognition of free-format handprint characters compatible with the DOS operating system and defacto-standard GTCO and Summagraphics tablet interfaces. Also offered is the low-cost EVALUATOR, a free-standing program which emulates all functions of the driver and provides interaction with the user for evaluation of script recognition and validation of Vendor graphic digitizers and pen/styluses.

Coup-de-plume/EVALUATOR executes on the IBM PC, PC/XT, PC/AT, PC/386, PC/486 and compatibles with 416K RAM, monochrome monitor, 2 floppy drives, printer, GTCO/Summagraphics tablet interface, MS/PC DOS and sells for $189.

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INTRODUCING:   ... STROKE OF THE PEN

a family of graphic digitizing device software drivers and programs executing under various commercial operating systems to effect script recognition input and evaluation of vendor-devices.

Script recognition is the problem of transforming letters, numbers and punctuation, expressed in discrete or cursive hand-written form, into an ordinal machine representation suitable for computer processing. Composed of stoke contours, intersections and shape features to differentiate meaning, written script is similar to other perceptual domains, e.g., phonemes, syllables and words in speech recognition, etc.

Like speech, machine script recognition conveys intelligence to the computer in a form more natural to the human source. Script input has wide applicability in business, scientific and cultural computing, from script document conversion, fill-in-the-forms field data capture and communication with the handicapped, to interactive literacy and natural language instruction.

Machine script recognition applies to any form of handwritten communication; from discrete characters to cursive letter strings forming words, and mixtures of each. Script recognition also considers the format of the script sample; to locate the relative placement of strokes, characters and words in the writing area.

Under the Coup-de-plume system, Machine Script recognition includes strings of characters comprising words from an English language lexicon (dictionary). Recognition is on-line; character strokes are input in real time and considered in the chronological order they are written. Script is recognized and formatted as ASCII characters.

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INTRODUCING: EVALUATOR Coup-de-plume ... STROKE OF THE PEN

Coup-de-plume is an algorithmic procedure to recognize' transform and convey the intelligence embodied in handwritten script into an ordinal machine representation suitable for computer processing. Coup-de-plume manifests itself in a family of software products designed to integrate graphic tablet-derived script communication into application programs under commercially available operating systems. The family includes device DRIVERS for various graphic digitizer tablets and operating systems, and PROGRAMS for evaluation of script recognition and validation of vendor devices.

The EVALUATOR is a free-standing program designed to emulate all functions of the Coup-de-plume DRIVER family. Interaction with the user to adjust key system variables together with visualization of the recognition process and derived results are provided. This facilitates evaluation of commercial script recognition and formatting, validation of graphic digitizing devices and pen/styluses, and selection of interfaces, without actually installing a driver under the operating system. Thus, integration of script recognition into an application system can be analyzed for best results during the formative stages of the system.

While emulating Coup de-plume DRIVERS, the EVALUATOR program facilitates:

* Selection of the GRAPHIC DIGITIZER device interface to accommodate various vendor tablets under test.

* Visualization of mathematically recreated handwritten script samples to validate Vendor pen/stylus handwriting suitability.

* Visualization of enlarged recreated handwritten script samples to evaluate script writing styles, and recognition of nondescript (devoid of shape features), overlapped, stroke gapped, slurred and embellished characters.

* Visualization and measure of stroke slur (fleck) on mathematically recreated invisibly-slurred written script. Quantifies slur to adjust Coup-de-plume filtering and smoothing with minimum recreated character distortion.

* Adjustment of script character height to provide the smallest, natural and easily written script, consistent with robust recognition, format control, and work sheet character density and layout efficiency.

* Visualization of format control in locating script placement on the work sheet when average script character width varies.

* Visualization of recreated handwritten script samples to evaluate the effect of pen/stylus tilt on general recognition and in particular on recognition in the extreme character and row positions of the work sheet.

* Printout of enlarged recreated handwritten script samples to facilitate off-line code changes to the prescription character shapes database.

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J.H. Shannon Associates Inc

PO Box 597, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

919-929-6863


Axxiom Chromatography Software
A new version of the acclaimed 700 series software allows GC oven temperature profiles to be entered into programmed Methods, traced on the computer display during realtime signal capture, and printed or plotted with chromatograms on any report. With 100 Hz sampling rate and better than 24 bit resolution, this version makes the 717, 727, 737, or 747 systems perfect for even the fastest capillary GC applications, for one to six detectors on up to three GC units per PC. Any of these models can handle an unlimited number of peaks per chromatogram with very fast integration and recalibration, plus complete batch automation facilities.

A free 700GC demonstration disk showing examples of routine use of the software is available upon request.

AXXIOM CHROMATOGRAPHY, INC.

11988 CHALLENGER COURT, MOORPARK, CALIFORNIA 93021-7122

(805) 523-8888        (800) 441-8888    FAX (805) 523-2313


MACLAN Connect Networking Swr Dist.
Miramar Systems, Inc. announced an agreement with Merisel and its Macintosh division, Macamerica, to distribute Miramar Systems' entire MACLAN Connect line of networking software.

MACLAN Connect is gateway software that seamlessly integrates Macintosh computers and printers into any PC LAN environment. It is the only available solution that integrates multiple PC LAN environments, including Banyan Vines, Novell Netware, IBM LAN Server, Microsoft LAN Manager, Ungermann-Bass Net/One and Artisoft LANtastic. MACLAN Connect allows Macintosh and PC users to share printers, LAN volumes, CD-ROM drives and other resources, regardless of their location on the network. Users can exchange data between PCs and Macintoshes, send e-mail between departments, and share hard disk storage and printers across the internetwork, all from their familiar PC or Macintosh user interface. The software is available in four configurations, to suit various network sizes and topologies.

"Miramar is the missing link in the world of Macintosh-to-PC connectivity software. They'll provide Merisel resellers with a reliable, market tested product for a variety of Macintosh integration needs," said Jack Kolk, Vice President of Products for Macamerica. "MACLAN Connect is unique in the industry because it's the only non-proprietary solution available. It brings affordable, transparent connectivity to Macintosh users regardless of the PC LAN in use."

MACLAN Connect customers include Fortune 500 companies with large Macintosh and PC installations, such as Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Martin Marietta and TRW. Miramar's MACLAN Connect product family has been certified for inclusion in IBM's National Solutions Center Database, and is recommended by IBM Sales for Mac-to-PC LAN connectivity.

"We look forward to working closely with Merisel/Macamerica and their network of resellers," said Miramar President Neal Rabin. "Since the company's start, we worked directly with customers to build market credibility for MACLAN Connect before seeking wide distribution. Our relationship with Merisel/Macamerica allows us to build on that credibility, while Merisel's strong service orientation gives Miramar resellers nationwide better access to our products."

Prior to the agreement with Merisel, MACLAN Connect was distributed exclusively through Service Plus Technology of San Jose. Both distributors will now offer the product to resellers.

Founded in 1987 and based in Santa Barbara, CA, Miramar Systems is a leading provider of Macintosh to PC LAN gateway software. The company's mission is to develop products that seamlessly integrate the Apple Macintosh family of products into PC environments. Miramar has an established reputation for providing reliable, cost efficient solutions for network integration.

Miramar Systems, Inc.

201 N. Salsipuedes, Suite 204 Santa Barbara, CA 93103

805.966.2432    FAX 805.965.1824


AdArt Advertising Clipart
AdArt: Vinyl Cutters Collection

The Vinyl Cutters Collection marks our first in a series of new products designed of the vinyl sign cutting industry. The Vinyl Cutters Collection contains over 300 EPS images 150 of our Logos & Trademarks and 150 of our International Symbols & Icons, each specially edited in outline format for compatibility with most vinyl sign cutting equipment. All graphics are in the Encapsulated Postscript format to provide superior reproduction quality with no loss of detail or sharpness when resized. The Vinyl Cutters Collection is also compatible with most pagelayout and illustration programs which accept EPS files (i.e. Aldus Pagemaker, Quark Xpress, and Adobe Illustrator! ) and is available for the Macintosh and IBM/compatible computer systems. Retail Price: $199.00

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AdArt: Business Symbols Collection

Perfect for designing business cards, letterheads, newsletters, business forms, and advertisements, the Business Symbols Collection contains over 260 EPS images representing a wide variety of businesses and services. The collection draws from images previously seen in our International Symbols & Icons packages as well as images specially designed for this package. All graphics are in the Encapsulated Postscript format to provide superior reproduction quality with no loss of detail or sharpness when resized. The Business Symbols Collection is also compatible with most page-layout and illustration programs which accept EPS files (i.e. Aldus Pagemaker, Quark Xpress, and Adobe Illustrator! ) and is available for the Macintosh and IBM/compatible computer systems. Retail Price: $99.00

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AdArt: Recycled Art: Environmentally Safe Clip Art

Recycle Art is a EPS collection of recycling symbols and environmental safe symbols. Over 60 different variations of recycle, recycled and recyclable symbols, including recycle aluminum, glass, steel & paper as wells The Society of Plastics Industry coding system for plastic. All graphics are in the Encapsulated Postscript format to provide superior reproduction quality with no loss of detail or sharpness when resized. The Business Symbols Collection is compatible with most page-layout and illustration programs which accept EPS files (i.e. Aldus Pagemaker, Quark Xpress, and Adobe Illustrator! ) and is available for the Macintosh and IBM/compatible computer systems. Retail Price: $69.00

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AdArt: Safety & Packaging Collection

The Safety & Packaging Collection is a collection of 240 eps symbols and graphics commonly used in the design of packaging. All graphics are in the Encapsulated Postscript format to provide superior reproduction quality with no loss of detail or sharpness when resized. The Safety & Packaging Collection is compatible with most page-layout and illustration programs which accept EPS files (i.e. Aldus Pagemaker, Quark Xpress, and Adobe Illustrator! ) and is available for the Macintosh and IBM/compatible computer systems. Retail Price: $99.00

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Existing Products.....

AdArt: Flags of the World

Flags of the World is a collection of 175 full color international flags. All graphics are in the Encapsulated Postscript format to provide superior reproduction quality with no loss of detail or sharpness when resized. Each flag is drawn to the highest detail to insure superior reproduction quality at large or small sizes.

Requirements: Mac/ IBM Compatible, programs which accept EPS files and a Postscript printer. Retail Price: $99.00

AdArt: Logos & Trademarks, Vol. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

AdArt: Logos & Trademarks is a collection of well-known corporate symbols and service marks used to advertise and display products and services. Each Volume contains 100 Encapsulated Postscript images representing organizations, manufacturers and corporations. Subjects include automotive, travel, real estate, insurance, finance, non-profit organizations & associations. The AdArt collection is a invaluable asset for display advertising. signs making. printing, and specialty advertising.

Requirements: Mac/ IBM Compatible, programs which accept EPS files and a Postscript printer. Retail Price: $99.00

AdArt: International Symbols & icons 1, 2

The International Symbols and Icons collection is a visual dictionary that no designer should be without. Each volume contains over 300 symbols and graphics commonly used for business, sports, occupations, maps, packaging, graphs and more. International Symbols and Icons is essential in the design of graphs, charts, newsletters, presentations, business cards, stationery and advertising.

Requirements: Mac/ IBM Compatible, programs which accept EPS files and a Postscript printer. Retail Price: $99.00ea.

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Innovation, 41 Mansfield Ave, Essex Junction, VT 05452

802-879-1164


Micro Express NB913 SX Notebook
When high performance, long battery life and a variety of plug-in options are desired for a notebook PC, at a reasonable price, the Micro Express NB913 Notebook PC fits the bill. This 7.7-pound, 20-MHz 80386SX-based PC has a battery life of about 5 hours, back-lit LCD VGA display, 2-MB of RAM and a 60-MB fast hard disk drive, plus DOS 4.01 and Microsoft Windows 3.0, for only $1999.

Optional plug-in modules include: FAX/modem; Scanner pack; Ethernet (LAN) pack; IBM 3270 emulation pack; Extra serial port; Voice-mail pack; SCSI interface pack; and 12-V car battery adapter. Optional packs are added by removing one of the dual battery packs, and operating off a single battery (this cuts the battery life from 5 to 2.5 hours in typical applications).

The high-contrast ten-inch black-on-white LCD screen has a 640 x 480 pixel resolution and can display 64 levels of gray scale. System RAM is expandable to either 4, 6 or 8 megabytes using ZIP memory modules. These 2-MB ZIP modules cost $200 each. Math coprocessor support is available for either the Intel 80387SX or the Cyrix 80S87-20 SX.

In addition to the built-in 1.44-MB 3-1/2" floppy disk drive and the standard 60-MB hard disk, an optional 80-MB hard disk drive is available for only $250 extra. A full-size 83-key keyboard is included. There is also a port for plugging in an external keyboard, if desired. Special ports are also included for an external color VGA monitor and an external floppy disk drive. One serial and one parallel port are also standard.

The internal dual Ni-Cad battery pack is good for about 5 hours of typical computing. With the computer off, the NB913 recharges in about 6 hours. For operation off external power, the power supply accepts 110/220 V-ac at 50 or 60 Hz, with auto-sensing.

Sophisticated Power Management

Using a new advanced portable PC BIOS, from AMI, the NB913 offers a variety of power management modes for extending the battery life. Including such things as variable screen shut-off, disk drive power-down, cpu power-down, and others, this computer can be easily configured to the needs of the user. All of the power management options are programmable through the BIOS set-up screens. In addition, the BIOS offers selectable shadowing of both system and video BIOS.

The NB913 is FCC Class B approved, and comes with a carrying case at no additional charge. The PC measures 12.2"[W] x 9.5"[D] x 2.1"[H].

A 15-month warranty is included on parts and labor for this PC, with shipping for the first 4 months paid both ways by Micro Express. A 30-day moneyback guarantee is included.

Optional on-site service, through TRW, is also available. If a board fails, Micro Express offers 24-hour express board replacement service. As with all other Micro Express computers, this machine is burned in for 72 hours before shipping to eliminate early failures. In addition, a toll-free number is provided for free unlimited technical support. When technical documents are required, Micro Express offers Automated FAX-back Service. This service means that documents can be requested through voice-mail and will be FAXed directly to the customer without human intervention.

The NB913 is available now, direct from Micro Express.

Micro Express, 1801 Carnegie Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92705

(714) 852-1400 or (800) 989-9900.


Gerber Editor/Viewer/Panelizer
Edit ten layers of PCB artwork on screen with EZ-View. EZ-View is part of the Gerber Toolkit from Logical Systems Corporation. The toolkit includes printing and panelization facilities as well as editing.

Editing allows Flashes and Draws to be deleted or dragged to a new location. New Draws and Flashes may be added. Flash and Draw Dcodes may be changed individually. Change Dcodes quickly with one keystroke, via the Auto-Change Dcode command.

EZ-View allows on screen inspection of Gerber files produced by popular CAD systems. Errors can be identified and corrected immediately, before film or PC boards are made. Notes and markings can be added or removed. Small design flaws can be corrected by moving Draws and Flashes. When moving an item, attached line segments are rubberbanded.

In addition to editing, EZ-View simplifies panelization and helps reduce production cost in two ways. Reduce film count by placing several layers on one sheet of film. Reduce board shop cost with multi-design PCB panels.

Panelization is supported by the following commands: Move layer, Rotate layer (with aperture substitution), Boxed layer display, Write visible layers to file and print Layer report. Aperture substitution automatically replaces oblong apertures with their rotated equivalent. Layer reports record the offset, rotation and file name for each layer.

EZ-View works on PCs with EGA or VGA displays. Use of a mouse is optional. EMS is recommended when large Gerber files are being viewed. A virtual memory system buffers the Gerber files in EMS or on disk.

Up to ten layers are displayed in color. Flashes and draws colors for each layer are individually selectable. Gerber formats of Leading or Trailing Zeros, Absolute or Incremental and 3 to 6 decimal places are supported.

Up to 990 apertures may be defined. There are 11 aperture shapes. The aperture shapes supported are: Annulus, Circle, Crosshair, Diamond, Ellipse, Line, Octagon, Oval, Rectangle, Square, and Thermal. Apertures may be any size from 1 mill to 6 inches.

Aperture files generated by OrCAD, PADS, PCAD, Protel, Racal and Tango II may be read directly by EZ-View. Other CAD system users can create compatible Aperture files in ASCII with a text editor.

Display control commands include: cursor control via keyboard and mouse; cursor Snap-on-grid ON/OFF;; Hide/Show Grid w/grid sizes from 0.001 to 0.500; Auto pan; Keystroke pan; Zoom factors from 100x to 0.05x actual size; Interrupt screen draw and redraw.

A free working demo is available. The file EZD.EXE can be downloaded from the Logical Systems BBS. The demo version includes several tutorials and will Display your own files. Technical support is available free to demo users and owners alike.

EZ-View is available alone for $150 or as part of the GerberToolkit for $250. The toolkit includes EZ-View as well as GerberJet, the printing utility, and 5 other utilities. The toolkit demo (GTD.EXE) which includes the EZ-view demo files may be downloaded instead.

Logical Systems Corp, PO Box 6184, Syracuse, NY 13217-6184

(315) 478-0722    FAX (315) 475-8460    BBS (315) 471-3961


Multimedia Studio with VIGA-16 Brd
Visionetics International Corporation, Torrance, CA, and Vision Imaging, Fountain Valley, CA, announce their agreement to include an introductory copy of Multimedia Studio software with each Visionetics VIGA-16 videographics card. The combined package will allow users to create powerful interactive multimedia applications quickly and easily, without the use of complicated programming or scripting languages.

Multimedia Studio is automatically shipped with all VMA-16 purchases. It is the first product designed specifically to give PC users all of the tools required to create and distribute professional multimedia presentations that combine text with photo quality images, digital quality sound, and motion picture quality video and animation. Multimedia Studio has file conversion capabilities that allow users to easily capture images with VIGA-16 for use in desktop publishing, presentation, and graphics art applications. It can convert between Targa 16 bit, PCX, GIF, and TIFF file formats.

VIGA-16 serves as the high-quality, high-color image capture for Multimedia Studio. It is a single-slot, single-board unit designed for the IBM PC/AT, 386 and 486 systems. It captures video images and accepts both NTSC and analog RGB signals. With built-in genlock, the board accepts and outputs signals from VCRs and other video equipment.

VIGA-16 is 100% register-compatible with TARGA 16. It will run any software packages designed for the TARGA 16 without having to run additional software drivers or perform additional hardware settings. VIGA-16 contains its own VRAM frame memory and its display resolution is software controllable at 512x512, 512x256, or 256x256. Each pixel is made up of 5-bits each of red, green, and blue signals. This allows a simultaneous display of 32,768 colors per pixel.

VIGA-16 and Multimedia Studio is a one-package solution to create picture databases quickly and easily without the need of a programmer or consultant. Users can combine brilliant color images with text in one system. Multimedia Studio allows custom searches and sorts, and can become a very effective management tool for pictures.

VIGA-16 and Multimedia Studio are shipped as a single package at a retail price of $1,195.00. It is immediately available directly from Visionetics, and comes with a full one year warranty.

Visionetics International Corporation was formed in 1983 and is the first manufacturer of microcomputer-based imaging products in Taiwan. For additional information, contact Visionetics, 21311 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 235, Torrance, CA 90503. Telephone: (310) 316-7940 or facsimile: (310) 316-7457.


NetWorld 92 Show Floor Sell-Out
The computer industry's premier networking, interoperability and connectivity show, NetWorld 92 Boston, will feature a sold out exhibit floor with 340 companies. The show will take place February 11-13, at the John B. Hynes Convention Center and adjacent Sheraton Boston Hotel.

The show floor spans all three floors of the Hynes Center and there will be exhibits, meetings and seminars in the Sheraton. NetWorld Boston will encompass approximately 142,000 net sq. ft., of exhibit space.

Exhibitors at the show include: 3Com Corp., Banyan Systems, Cabletron, Compaq, Datapoint, Digital Equipment Corp., Emerald Systems, Gigatrend, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Intel, Lotus, Madge Networks, Microsoft, Network General, Novell, Sitka, Standard Microsystems and WordPerfect.

NetWorld 92 Boston will showcase a wide range of the latest products in computer networking, including: file servers, workstations, wireless networking technology, networking management software and applications software, cabling products, modems, routers/bridges and communications products and services.

The show hours for NetWorld are: Tuesday and Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Prior to the show, nine NetWorld Tutorials -- all-day, informative and educational conference sessions -- will be held on Monday, February 10.

The exhibit floor and seminar program will open following the keynote address from Richard D. Koeller, vice president of information technology for Whirlpool Corp., of Benton Harbor, MI. Mr. Koeller will discuss "The Role of Networking in Globalization," in his speech, which will be held February 11, at 9 a.m. at the Marriott Copley Hotel.

"NetWorld Boston offers today's networking decision makers the best opportunity in the computer industry to learn, evaluate, and discuss the latest products and services in connectivity technology," said Mr. Adam Torres, NetWorld Boston show manager. "NetWorld Boston is also the intelligent way to network with other technology professionals, gather information on the latest trends and issues, or forge business alliances."

NetWorld 92 Boston is produced by Bruno Blenheim Inc., a trade show management firm in Fort Lee, NJ. Bruno Blenheim is a subsidiary of Blenheim Group PLC, the world's leading independent producer of exhibitions and conferences with more than 250 events worldwide. Bruno Blenheim also produces NetWorld Dallas, PC EXPO in New York, PC EXPO in Chicago, and UNIX EXPO and will launch NetWorld Europe in April.


WordPerfect for Windows Guide
IDG Books Worldwide announced the publication of PC World WordPerfect for Windows DOS to Windows Guide, an easy reference and tutorial designed for WordPerfect 5.1 for DOS users who are switching to WordPerfect for Windows. Written by Greg Harvey, a bestselling computer book author, the guide eases the transition to the Windows version of WordPerfect by providing a thorough comparison of the two programs and a complete command and feature reference.

"This is an ideal guide for novice users, as well as a WordPerfect reference. Users entrenched in the 5.1 interface will find this a good transition guide. The DOS-to-Windows Quick Index is an invaluable reference," said Allen Biehl, Senior Technical Editor, WordPerfect Magazine.

In addition to a Quick Index which helps users easily cross-reference topics, the command and feature reference section contains detailed information on all commands and provides step-by-step instructions on all features in WordPerfect for Windows. Tips and cautionary notes point out important differences between the way commands and features work in the Windows versus DOS versions of the program. CUA and DOS-compatible function keys and shortcut keystrokes are also explained.

The book also contains a free CUA and DOS Function Key Template quick reference card, which users can tear out and refer to while working at their computer.

The PC World WordPerfect for Windows DOS to Windows Guide is the newest addition to IDG Books' PC World Series of books, which also includes the critically acclaimed PC World DOS 5 Complete Handbook and the national bestseller PC World Paradox 3.5 Power Programming Techniques.

IDG Books publishes high quality computer books that bring extra value and skillbuilding instruction to the reader. The company applies the technical, market, and editorial knowledge of IDG, the leading publisher of technology periodicals, to provide timely and useful computer books that meet the needs of computer users of all levels.

Headquartered in Boston, MA, International Data Group is the world's largest publisher of computer-related information and the leading global provider of information services on information technology. International Data Group publishes over 150 computer publications in more than 50 countries, including such titles as PC World, InfoWorld, Macworld, LOTUS & Computerworld. Thirty million people read one or more International Data Group publications each month.

IDG Books are available wherever computer books are sold, or direct from the publisher at (800) 762-2974, 7a.m.-5p.m. PST.

IDG Books, 155 Bovet Rd, Ste 610, San Mateo, CA 94402

415-358-1250


Mac Bible & Peachpit Press Merge
Goldstein & Blair, publisher of The Macintosh Bible, and Peachpit Press, publisher of The Little Mac Book, announced today that Peachpit will begin distributing all Goldstein & Blair titles on March 1, 1992. Peachpit will also publish future G&B titles, including reprints of existing books.

Goldstein & Blair will continue to edit future editions of The Macintosh Bible, but Peachpit will publish them. G&B will also continue to prepare the unique quarterly updates that come free with The Macintosh Bible, but they'll be mailed out by Peachpit.

Commenting on the new arrangement, Peachpit founder Ted Nace said, "The Macintosh Bible is more than a book--it's an institution, and one that really embodies the Macintosh spirit. We're very excited to be joining forces with G&B. We want this book on the desk of every Mac user on the planet."

Speaking of his own motivations, Goldstein & Blair founder Arthur Naiman, who has edited all three editions of The Macintosh Bible, said, "For a long time I've felt burdened by the nuts-and-bolts aspect of publishing--but even if I didn't, Peachpit does a much better job of it. Their taking over the publishing end of things will free my time to write books, which is what I really want to do."

With 565,000 copies in print worldwide, The Macintosh Bible is far and away the best-selling Mac book ever--as well as the best-selling desktop-published book ever. (Although most publishers inflate their in-print figures, that's a real number. A detailed printing history is available upon request.) The Macintosh Bible has garnered more than a hundred rave reviews and many thousands of ecstatic comments from readers.

The Little Mac Book has 165,000 copies in print after just a year and a half, and is generally considered to be the best short book on the Mac. Both it and The Macintosh Bible have recently been among the top three best selling computer books at B. Dalton--unusually high ratings for books about Macintoshes rather than IBM PCs.

By June, Peachpit will have 66 titles, not counting the ones from G&B. Other best-selling Peachpit books include WordPerfect: Desktop Publishing in Style, The QuarkXPress Book, Mastering Corel Draw, Ventura Tips and Tricks and The Mac is not a typewriter.

Other G&B titles include The Macintosh Bible "What Do I Do Now?" Book, now in its second edition (105,000 copies in print); The Macintosh Bible Guide to System 7 (83,000 copies in print); The Macintosh Bible Guide to File Maker Pro; and The Dead Mac Scrolls. G&B also publishes The Macintosh Bible Software Disks and The Dead Mac Scrolls Disk.

Together, Peachpit and G&B have well over a million and a half books in print, and hundreds of thousands of software packages. Peachpit's combined sales of both product lines are expected to approach nine million dollars in 1992.

The new arrangement with Peachpit will allow Naiman to devote more time to his other company, Odonian Press, whose Real Story series is dedicated to a simple idea: political books don't have to be boring. At just 100 pages and $5, these books are meant to be read. "

The first book in the Real Story series, Who Killed JFK? by Carl Oglesby, was published on January 3. Forthcoming titles include Who Owns the US? by Gore Vidal, What Uncle Sam Really Wants by Noam Chomsky and Burma: the Next Killing Fields? by Alan Clements.


WordPerfect for Windows Training
Anderson Soft-Teach announces it will be the first to ship a complete video training package for WordPerfect for Windows. The three-volume training package will ship on January 31, 1992.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

The WordPerfect for Windows training package combines three videotapes, three Personal Training Guides, three Practice Disks with disk duplication licenses, three Self-Tests and three Disk Licenses. Anderson SoftTeach will also send a Certificate of Completion to each person who successfully completes the WordPerfect for Windows training package.

The WordPerfect for Windows training package will be sold for $995. Topics covered include creating and editing documents, customizing button bars, adding style with graphics, working with tables, using the file manager, using macros, and much more. Information on all topics covered can be obtained directly from Anderson Soft-Teach.

WINDOWS TRANSITION CREATES TRAINING NEED

The introduction of WordPerfect for Windows and other Windows applications has created an accelerated need for software support and training. Many trainers find themselves "caught midstream" in the conversion from the DOS to the Windows environment.

"Corporate trainers still have to support DOS applications while simultaneously designing training programs tor Windows applications," said Warren Anderson, President. "Training professionals may find it difficult, if not impossible, to provide training classes for all of these applications."

BROADEST TRAINING LINE FOR WINDOWS & DOS APPLICATIONS

To help training professionals meet their organizations' diverse training needs, Anderson Soft-Teach has produced the most extensive video training product line available for Windows and DOS based applications. "The availability of our courses for both Windows and DOS applications allows trainers to implement training programs when a lack of time or resources prevents them from designing instructor-led classes. We are committed to supporting computer training professionals by bringing new Windows and DOS training products to market at a record pace," stated Anderson.

Anderson Soft-Teach designs, produces and markets the largest library of multimedia training courses in the industry for personal computer (PC) software programs. Its products are sold both domestically and internationally. Anderson Soft-Teach's line of over 40 video-based training products include current releases for Windows, Word for Windows, Excel for Windows, WordPerfect for Windows, DOS, Lotus 1-2-3, WordPerfect, and dBASE. The company also offers computer literacy courses for Hardware and Software and Local Area Networks. Anderson Soft Teach's corporate headquarters are located at: 983 University Avenue, Los Gatos, CA 95030 U.S.A. Telephone Sales: (800) 33-VIDEO / Corporate: (408) 399-0100 / Fax: (408) 399-0500.


SupraFAXModems Breaks Price Barrier
A wide range of features--fax, data, voice, caller ID, unique status display, small case, and very attractive price--oll combine to moke the new SupraFAXModem family of modems from Supra Corporation on intriguing new opportunity for computer users. The SupraFAXModem V.32bis features 14,400 bps fax and data for $399.95 retail, and the SupraFAXModem V.32 features 9600 bps fax and data for $299.95 retail.

On the fax side, both modems feature Class 1 and 2 commands, compatibility with Group 3 fax machines, and the ability to send and receive faxes directly from the computer. On the data side, both modems support communication at speeds ranging from 300 bps to 14,400 bps (9601) bps for the SupraFAXModem V.32), plus they also support CCITT V.42bis, MNP 2-5, and MNP 10 data compression and error correction protocols. When using V.42bis (4:1 compression), the SupraFAXModem V.32bis provides up to 57,600 bps throughput, and the SupraFAXModem V.32, up to 38,400 bps throughput.

Both modems also feature a revolutionary status display, which allows for on unlimited number of status messages. In a display that looks similar to a digital clock, the modems presently give the user up to 25 different messages, conveying things like connection rate and type (FX), dialing (DI), ringing (Rl), and transmission error (TE). This display is a great advantage compared with most other modems, whose finite number of indicator lights limit how much information they can convey to the user.

All of these features are packed into a case about the size of two decks of playing cards placed side by side (1" x 4.5" X 6.5")--a case that is half the size of many other V.32 and V.32bis modems.

Voice & Caller ID

SupraFAXModems also support two important features--voice and caller ID--thot con be enabled through low-cost, user-installable firmware upgrades available mid-1992.

The voice feature allows the modems to send and receive digitized voice and implement several voice functions. The modems can compress and uncompress voice data for efficient storage, generate and recognize touch tones, and sample at various frequencies, depending on the quality level desired. This feature will be useful for interactive applications such as voice moil, answering machines, and digital announcers.

Caller ID (where available) allows the number from which an incoming call was dialed to be displayed on the user's screen before the coll is answered. This will be useful for secure communications, automatic identification of incoming calls, and interactive voice applications.

Innovation & Chip Sets Combine For Killer Pricing

At $299.95 and $399.95 retail, respectively, the SupraFAXModem V.32 and SupraFAXModem V.32bis are about 1/2 to 1/3 the price of similar modems. Supra is able to offer these prices because of innovative designs and state-of-the-art chip sets from Rockwell International. "We are very excited about the power we're putting into our customers' hands, and the outstanding quality we ore able to deliver at these very affordable prices," said John Wiley, President of Supra Corporation.

In addition to the stand-alone modems, packages that include cables and software will be available for IBM PC and Macintosh computers. IBM PC internal models will also be available.

About Supra Corporation

Supra Corporation, based in Albany, Oregon, has been providing personal computer users with high-quality, low-cost peripherals since 1985. The SupraFAXModems (including the previously announced 9600 bps fax/2400 bps data SupraFAXModem Plus) are the latest additions to the popular SupraModem family.

Since the original SupraModem 2400 was introduced in 1987, SupraModems have been popular among consumers looking for excellent value in a reliable modem, and have been recommended by a variety of sources, from respected PC Magazine and MacUser columnist John Dvorok to the Berkeley Macintosh User's Group (BMUG). In addition to manufacturing a complete line of fax ond data modems, Supra makes a variety of peripherals for Commodore Amiga computers.

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

Supra's two newest modems--the SupraFAXModem V.32bis and the SupraFAXModem V.32--are available as stand alone units that work with any computer with on RS-232 port, and as packages that include software and cables for Macintosh and IBM PC compatible computers. The packages provide everything the user needs to get started using the modem immediately.

The Macintosh packages ore compatible with System 7 and include FAXstf fax software, award-winning MicroPhone 1.5 telecommunications software, CompuServe Information Manager starter kit and software, and online service offers. Also included in the Macintosh packages ore a modem cable, phone cable, and manuals.

IBM packages ore available with internal and external SupraFAXModems for DOS and Windows. _ packages include Winfax software, online service offers, and all required cables and manuals. (Windows comes with its own telecom software.) DOS packages include FaxTalk Plus software, Mirror telecommunications software, online service offers, and all required cables and manuals.

Supra Corp, 7101 Supra Dr SW, Albany, OR 97321

503-967-2400   fax: 503-967-2401


Human Resource Mgmt Conference
GENESYS Software Systems, Inc., the leading developer and marketer of Human Resource Management Systems, announced that it will host its 12th Annual HRMS Conference and Exposition, at The Pointe on South Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona from September 21-24.

"The Future is Now," the theme for the conference, which has been designed for Human Resources, Payroll, Benefits and Systems professional, will highlight advanced technologies, leading edge applications (including paperless processing, imaging, and voice response), and successful human resource management strategies. Selected speakers will receive a complimentary conference registration - a $775 value from GENESYS.

The GENESYS annual "Call for Speakers" is a unique opportunity to promote your organization's products and services to an audience of approximately 500 industry professionals. Forms for proposed topics are enclosed. Abstracts will be reviewed and selected speakers will be notified in April. For additional information, call Elisa Ritchie at 508-685-5400, extension 3055.

Genesys Software Systems Inc

5 Branch St, Methuen, MA 01844

508-685-5400


XoftWare for Windows & DOS
AGE Logic, Inc. announced that the first public demonstrations of its two new products, XoftWare for Windows and XoftWare for DOS, would be at Uniforum, in San Francisco. In addition, several new features developed for two other AGE X server products, XoftWare for TIGA/DOS and XoftWare for PC Unix, would also be premiered in interactive exhibits.

XoftWare for Windows is AGE's enhanced X11R4 server software that tightly integrates X and Microsoft Windows on 286, 386 and 486 PCs. With XoftWare for Windows, users can simultaneously run Microsoft Windows and network-based Unix and VAX applications on the same PC. AGE will demonstrate the product's simplified cut and paste capabilities between applications, as well as the easily configurable startup icons for specific network-based X applications. In addition to those features, the new XoftWare for Windows offers users the choice of displaying their X applications with either Microsoft's local window manager or any of the popular X window managers such as mwm (Motif), OpenLook, or DECwindows. XoftWare for Windows supports all popular startup modes and provides a full X11R4 font library plus a BDF-to-Microsoft Windows font compiler. A XoftWare tutorial, on-line context sensitive help, and an easy-to-use installation program are also included.

XoftWare for DOS is AGE's new release of its industry-leading PC Xsight X server software acquired from Locus Computing in September 1991. The new product includes more network support for leading third-party TCP/IP and NFS networking software packages, higher-end graphics resolution (SVGA and 8514/A), as well as support for 256 colors. XoftWare for DOS now includes a hotkey that provides immediate access to DOS or Microsoft Windows applications. In addition, the product boasts higher speeds and greater reliability enabling users to transform their DOS PCs into cost effective X terminals. Optional TCP/IP software is also available from AGE.

XoftWare for TIGA/DOS adds the high-resolution, high-performance capabilities of an X terminal to any 28613861486 DOS PCs with TIGA-based graphics accelerators. New features being demonstrated include support for TI 34020-based accelerators in addition to expanded support for 34010 accelerators, a hotkey to switch between DOS and X applications, support for DOS 5.0, enhanced international keyboard support, as well as expanded support for leading networking packages including 3COM, PC-NFS, FTP, Wollongong, and XoftNet. Because XoftWare for TIGA/DOS executes all X server instructions directly on the TIGA graphics accelerator, performance is equivalent to a dedicated X terminal solution. Other features include color resolutions supported to 1280 x 1024, monochrome to 160() x 1200, and pixel depths to 8 bits providing 256 simultaneous colors.

XoftWare for PC Unix transforms 386 and 486 SCO or INTERACTIVE Unix PCs with TMS340-based accelerators into high-performance, high-resolution X workstations. New features of XoftWare for PC Unix which will be highlighted at Uniforum include support for new TI 34020-based graphic accelerator cards, an improved installation program, popular X clients such as xternn, twm, and uwm, and a hotkey to SCO's MultiScreen. Taking full advantage of the performance benefits associated with TMS340-based graphics accelerators, XoftWare for PC Unix provides workstation performance. Fast drawing speed as well as screen resolution and pixel depth independence are standard. Color resolutions up to 1280 x 1024, and monochrome up to 1600 x 1200 are supported. Pixel depths up to 8 bits provide 256 simultaneous colors. In addition, support for local X clients is provided through fast Unix System V streams. XoftWare for PC Unix also provides SCO's MultiScreen for console-based applications and operations. Backing store and save unders, font caching and a resource recovery system all standard.

AGE, a privately owned corporation founded in 1984, is a supplier of X Window System software marketed under the XoftWare brand name. In addition to customized embedded products, the company offers standard XoftWare packages for OEMS, systems integrators, resellers, and major end users. These XoftWare packaged products support industry standards such as Microsoft Windows, DOS, TIGA, 8515/A, SCO Open Desktop, and INTERACTIVE Unix. AGE also has strategic agreements with silicon, terminal, and workstation companies, e.g. AMD, Arche, IBM, Intel, Samsung, TI, and Zenith Data Systems, to develop hardware specific X servers tailored to their specifications.

age

9985 Pacific Heights Blvd, Suite 200, San Diego, CA 92121

619-455-8600


Shareware Marketing System
The $HAREWARE MARKETING $YSTEM is a detailed two disk software resource for shareware authors who need creative marketing ideas and a RATED mailing list of over 4,000 major shareware distributors, large computer clubs, key magazine editors, recommended BBS systems and more! Software programmers and authors can use the detailed mailing list to mail software in an effective, highly successful manner. Also contains detailed newsletter and marketing guide which has been prepared by an established shareware author and contains dozens of creative marketing tips, tricks and traps every author should review. The database file is rated so you can mail shareware to key vendors ranked A, B or C. The database file is supplied in dBase III (DBF) file format. Other file formats such as ASCII and Paradox are available. Program does NOT require color or special graphics. Requires database program such as PC-File, dBase or any database which can import dBase III format (DBF) files. Hard drive suggested. Single issue registration available as well as subscriptions - 4 quarterly issues per year. SMS was awarded a trophy award by Public Brand Software in 1991 - the highest quality ranking a shareware package can receive.

On January 1, 1992 registration prices increased and were announced via extensive mailings to vendors, BBS systems and computer clubs. Prices have increased for several reasons. The current database mailing list, for example, is exploding past 4,000 total entries. The SMS newsletter section is more than DOUBLING in size with massive updates and timely marketing information shareware authors need and use. I hope you will consider submitting a registration form and payment for your personal copy of SMS!

Seattle Scientific Photography

Dept SMS

POB 1506

Mercer Island, WA 98040

(206) 236-0470


New NEC M Series Intersect CD-ROMs
NEC Technologies, Inc. announced the new M Series of Intersect CD-ROM readers, a new line of high performance readers that meet and exceed the standards set by the Multimedia PC (MPC) Marketing Council. The new Intersect CDR-36M portable CD-ROM reader, Intersect CDR-73M external CD-ROM reader and Intersect CDR-83M internal CD-ROM reader offer the high performance and reliability necessary for demanding multimedia applications at affordable prices.

"NEC is proud to offer these multimedia ready drives to meet the growing demand for multimedia-capable hardware," said Michael Kaiser-Gorczak, manager of marketing and development of NEC's Optical Media Group. "By spinning the disc faster, we were able to achieve faster access times and data transfer rates, exceeding the MPC standards and giving users the smoothest animation video available."

As a founding member of the Multimedia PC Marketing Council, NEC is committed to providing a complete line of MPC-compliant products. In addition to the new M Series of CD-ROM readers, current and upcoming multimedia products include the recently introduced PowerMate Image Line of multimedia-ready desktop computers, the new MultiSync FG Monitors, the PC-VCR and an upcoming Multimedia Upgrade Kit complete with soundboard and multimedia software applications.

Intersect CDR-36M

The new Intersect CDR-36M portable CD-ROM reader provides dramatically improved performance and can handle demanding CD-ROM applications in the office or on the road with surprising smoothness. The CDR-36M's portability combined with an improved average access time of 450 milliseconds, data transfer rate of 150 KB/second and a 64K cache make it a natural choice for anyone requiring performance and portability.

A SCSI device providing excellent performance and flexibility, the portable CDR-36M can go on the road with NEC's Parallel-to-SCSI adapter. Weighing just 2.2 pounds without the battery pack, the unique one-piece design of the CDR-36M makes it easily transportable. An optional battery pack brings the total weight of the unit to three pounds and offers the convenience of battery powered operation.

The Intersect CDR-73M external and CDR-83M internal CD-ROM readers are the fastest drives available with an average access time of just 280 milliseconds.

"In addition, we've doubled the data transfer rate of the M Series of readers to 300 KB/second, offering users unprecedented performance," explained Gorczak. "Until now, the data transfer rate has been relatively ignored in the industry. Combined with our 280 millisecond access time, our improved data transfer rates provide unbeatable performance and will set us apart from the competition."

The CDR-73/83M Series of CD-ROM readers meet and exceed the MPC requirements, providing the smoothest motion video available from CD, and is XA ready to enable future use with XA-multimedia applications.

All NEC CD-ROM readers are compatible with Apple Macintosh HFS, High Sierra and ISO 9660 and file formats as well as a wide array of computer hardware platforms with the use of NEC's flexible SCSI interface adapters.

The suggested retail price for the CDR-36M is $449. The suggested retail price for the optional battery pack is $99. The CDR-73M and 83M have suggested retail prices of $675 and $599 respectively. All NEC M Series of CD-ROM readers are backed by a two year limited warranty and can be purchased bundled with the interface kits at the following suggested retail prices:

CDR-36M with XT/AT Interface             $539

CDR-36M with Mac Interface                485

CDR-36M with PS/2 Interface               598

CDR-36M with Parallel to SCSI Interface   559

CDR-73M with XT/AT Interface              765

CDR-73M with Mac Interface                712

CDR-73M with PS/2 Interface               824

CDR-83M with XT/AT Interface              689

CDR-83M with PS/2 Interface               749

NEC Technologies Inc

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719

508-264-8000


Advanced Power Management (APM)
Intel Corporation and Microsoft Corporation introduced a platform-independent software specification that extends the battery life of portable computers by up to 25 percent during full-on conditions. Thirty-seven companies endorsed the specification called Advanced Power Management (APM).

APM is the first approach to involve the operating system and software applications, in addition to the hardware and firmware, in power management for portable computers. Under APM, the operating system communicates precise information to the firmware -- software that communicates between the operating system and hardware -- about the system's power usage. This information enables the firmware to make better and faster choices in the real-time task of saving power. The result is superior battery conservation, which enables users to work with their portable systems for longer periods of time.

"We are pleased by this cooperative effort between two industry leaders to advance the performance of the x86 architecture and, in particular, to utilize the unique power saving capabilities of the Intel386 SL CPU," said John Davies, director of marketing for Intel's Entry-Level Products Group. "We are sure this will be of significant benefit to the industry. "

"Advanced Power Management has received tremendous support because it recognizes the special needs of the portable computing market," said Brad Silverberg, vice president for personal systems at Microsoft. "Working with Intel, we have designed a specification that is simple tor PC manufacturers and transparent to end users. We have addressed a fundamental problem for portable computing users by increasing their battery life up to 25 percent."

The specification comes at a time when systems with small form factors -- including laptops and notebooks, palmtops, personal organizers and industry-specific embedded systems -- make up the fastest-growing segment of the computer market. By offering manufacturers of these systems a standard. system-wide approach to power management, an APM-compliant portable PC can have additional useful life without extra hardware or cost to the user. For example, using APM's power savings in conjunction with built-in power management functionality, such as in Intel386 SL CPU-based systems, battery life is extended even further. Actual results will vary depending on computer usage, system configuration, and the sophistication of a vendor's BIOS. APM Provides Compatibility, Openness, Ease of Use

The APM specification provides a range of user and industry benefits:

* APM can be implemented in any PC operating system, allowing for broad industry adoption. Microsoft supports APM in MS-DOS 5 and Windows 3.1 operating systems. Also, it is compatible with applications that are not APM-aware.

* APM is an open, platform-independent specification. APM can be implemented on any x86-based microprocessor. Intel has implemented additional hardware support in its current Intel386 SL microprocessor family. Intel and Microsoft are offering APM as an open specification to all system BIOS developers and hardware and software vendors.

* APM is simple for PC users to operate. Microsoft has shipped APM drivers for MS-DOS 5 to PC manufacturers and will soon provide APM drivers for Windows 3.1. Once installed, there is nothing users must adjust after turning the computer on, although PC users may choose to configure settings of their APM system -- including PC manufacturer-provided power management features -- through a dialog box in Windows 3.1. Windows 3.1 will include a set of enhanced options for Intel386 SL CPU-based systems.

Intel386 SL CPU Family Designed For Simpler APM Implementation

To make implementation of APM much simpler for PC manufacturers to support, Intel designed specific features in its Intel386 SL CPU family. This family incorporates dedicated hardware ports that serve as the interface between the operating system and the CPU. This hardware allows BIOS developers to implement all the APM functions in a single System Management Mode (SMM) module, thus extending the benefits of SMM to minimize APM support overhead. Software Layers That Integrate Power Management

lntel and Microsoft, with the assistance of system and BIOS vendors, invested two calendar-years of development to create the APM specification. The APM specification complements existing power management designs provided by hardware vendors such as Intel, whose Intel386 SL microprocessor was the first to provide a standard approach to battery conservation through the interaction of BIOS firmware and hardware. This eliminates the need for PC manufacturers to write complex operating system-specific software drivers for power management that could slow the system or create incompatibilities.

APM compliance extends the power-consciousness of the computer system beyond the firmware to include the operating system, drivers and applications. An APM driver mediates between the APM-compliant system BIOS and the operating system. It seeks information from the operating system and applications about their status and their needs to access hardware. Applications which are themselves APM-compliant can contribute even more power data to the APM driver, which passes this information to the firmware.

The firmware, in turn, continually manages the hardware through a system vendor's unique built-in power-saving scheme. The additional data from the APM interface allows the firmware to make better and faster decisions about power savings. Participation by Developers, PC Manufacturers

PC manufacturers, system BIOS developers, chip manufacturers and software developers can participate in the APM approach by writing APM compliance into their products. The APM specification is available from the Microsoft Independent Software Vendor and Independent Hardware Vendor Relations Groups at (206) 882-8080 and from local Intel sales offices. The APM SL enhanced options specification is also available from local Intel sales offices.


Network BASIC Library for NetWare
Automation Software Consultants. Inc. (ASCI) announces the release of Network BASIC Library for NetWare.

Network BASIC Library is a collection of nearly 200 functions invaluable for writing utility programs or commercial applications for NetWare. Network BASIC Library provides the programmer with access to NetWare services for bindery management, connection, directory and file management, locking, messages, printing, security and rights, semaphores, transaction tracking and workstation services. Functions are provided for nearly all versions of NetWare including versions 2.X and 3.X.

Network BASIC Library includes over 250 pages of comprehensive documentation explaining the use of each function and providing general discussions of software development with NetWare. Over 50 sample programs are included to illustrate the use of each function.

Network BASIC Library for NetWare supports Microsoft Quick BASIC and Microsoft BASIC (small, medium, compact and large memory models) and is available for $245.

ASCI, 8188 S State Route 48, Maineville, OH 45039

1-800-669-0842 or 513-677-0842


Q+E Database/VB for Visual Basic
Pioneer Software announced the release of Q+E Database/VB (QEVB), a complete multi-user database for Microsoft) Visual Basic. QEVB adds database custom controls to Visual Basic that drastically reduce the amount of code needed and time required to create Windows database applications. QEVB is dBase compatible and can store image data or bitmap files directly in the database. QEVB applications can be distributed royalty free. QEVB will be demonstrated for the first time at the Windows and OS/2 Conference in booth 1514.

Q+E Database/VB is a Database Custom Control Interface for Visual Basic

The QEVB custom control interface turns Visual Basic into a powerful, multi-user database development tool with the ability to create Windows database applications without programming. By simply clicking a QEVB custom control, users can create List Boxes, Combo Boxes, Text Boxes, Pictures, Check Boxes, Radio Buttons, Command Push Buttons, and Scroll Bars that automatically access data stored in a database The QEVB Query Control provides developers with a simple method of specifying the databases to be accessed, the record sort order, and the query conditions.

The QEVB Grid Control provides an easy way to create an application to 'browse' database records. The Grid Control displays each record as a row, and each field or field expression as a column. QEVB allows users to specify how the records are to be sorted and which conditions, if any, the records must meet.

Nevet Basker, Microsoft's Product Manager for the Applications Programmability Group said, "We're excited to have Pioneer Software's Q+E Database/VB extend the capabilities of Visual Basic. Custom controls and other add-on products, such as those delivered by Pioneer Software, are very valuable to Visual Basic customers. With Visual Basic and Pioneer Software's custom controls, programmers can create powerful database applications faster and easier than ever before."

Q+E Database/VB is a Multi-User Database for Visual Basic

"Our goal is to provide a full-featured, multi-user database that makes it easy to build database applications in Windows," said George Woltman, President of Pioneer Software. "The combination of QEVB and Visual Basic is a complete solution for building Windows Database applications. "

QEVB stores data in dBase-compatible files and supports both dBase m and IV indexes for either local or networked databases. QEVB supports file and record locking, enabling developers to build powerful multi-user Database applications. In addition, QEVB fully supports dBase memo fields and can store Windows color bitmaps or bitmap file names directly in the Database. QEVB also enhances the graphic capabilities of Visual Basic enabling full 256 color bitmaps to be displayed in a Visual Basic application.

QEVB includes a Database management utility that enables users to view, create, modify, and delete database files. With this utility developers can specify the database field names, data types, and field lengths; and can also create indexes to improve database performance.

Pricing and Availability

The retail price for Q+E Database/VB (QEVB) is $199, but for a limited time, Pioneer Software is offering QEVB for a special introductory price of only $99. Applications built and distributed with QEVB are royalty-free. QEVB will ship in March 1992. Sales inquiries should be directed to: Pioneer Software, Sales Department, 5540 Centerview Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina 27606; (800) 876-3101 or (919) 859-2220.


4DOS V4.0 DOS Command Replacement
JP Software is now shipping 4DOS version 4.0, a major new release of the company's popular replacement command processor for DOS.

"4DOS is designed to add friendliness, flexibility, and efficiency to the DOS prompt, without the memory overhead and cumbersome interface that bog down other shells when you try to use them for everyday work," said Tom Rawson, JP Software's President. "Our latest release builds on that approach with full support for DOS 5 switches and commands, dozens of enhancements for the novice user, and added power for batch programmers."

"Most 4DOS commands have been enhanced based on requests from our customers," said Rex Conn, the product's primary developer. "Users wanted more flexibility and power in the DOS commands they use every day. Version 4.0 is designed to meet that need. One example is basic file processing operations like COPY, ERASE, and MOVE, which can now handle anything from a single file to an entire directory tree, process hidden files, or update one directory to match another."

In designing version 4.0, the company took a careful look at the needs of new users. The HELP system was extensively revised and expanded, and includes complete, cross-referenced information on all 4DOS and DOS commands. Version 4.0 also offers easy configuration with a "4DOS.INI" file, descriptions of up to 40 characters for any file, and color coded directory displays for easier file identification. Enhancements like a popup command history window and the ability to change to a directory just by typing its name help make the DOS command line friendlier for the novice.

For the advanced user version 4.0 includes a new wildcard syntax for more flexible file selection, and complete key remapping to allow assignment of any 4DOS function or command to almost any key on the keyboard. Batch file improvements include a 15 - 30% speed increase for .BAT files, and enhanced IF statements to boost the efficiency and readability of batch programs. New variables and functions provide the batch programmer with built-in support for date and time arithmetic, complex decimal calculations, popup menus, and system status checks.

4DOS completely replaces COMMAND.COM, the command processor distributed with MS-DOS, PC-DOS, and DR-DOS (including DR-DOS 6.0) as well as OS/2 1.3 and 2.0. When installed via the user's CONFIG.SYS file it requires only 3K of memory (less than COMMAND.COM), and can be loaded high to create additional memory savings. Secondary shells require only 1.7K in version 4.0, down from 3K in previous versions.

4DOS 4.0 is $69 including shipping to the US and Canada. Registered 4DOS users can upgrade for $19 or $29 depending on their original purchase date. Shipments of pending upgrade orders have begun and according to the company are well ahead of schedule. The company also offers 4OS2, a complete replacement for the OS/2 1.2, 1.3, and 2.0 command processor (CMD.EXE); and BOOT.SYS, a utility which allows system reconfiguration at boot time under MS-DOS and PC-DOS.

JP Software can be reached at 800-368-8777 or 617-646-3975, or at PO Box 1470, E. Arlington, MA 02174, USA.


Portable Computing Initiative
Microsoft Corporation announced a Portable Computing Initiative, a suite of technologies that allows PC manufacturers to meet the growing needs of the portable computing market. As the first phase of the initiative, Microsoft will offer:

* Advanced Power Management (APM), to extend battery life

* Microsoft MS-DOS 5 operating system, ROM Version

* Interlink, a fast new data transfer utility

* Solid-state memory support

In the future, Microsoft plans to extend the initiative in a number of ways, such as enabling its Windows operating system to perform on diskless machines with maximum ease and efficiency.

"Microsoft is committed to driving new standards in technical innovation for the portable computing market," said Brad Silverberg, Microsoft vice president, personal systems. "We see tremendous potential for technology that helps users on the go. They need to minimize battery, memory and disk size as well as cost, while maximizing functionality and ease of sharing information with a desktop PC or corporate headquarters. "

Advanced Power Management for Increased Battery Life

The APM specification, developed jointly by Microsoft and Intel Corporation, is available to all hardware and software vendors. Microsoft has shipped to PC vendors an APM driver for MS-DOS 5 and will soon make one available for Windows 3.1. APM extends the battery life of portable computers by up to 25 percent during full-on conditions.

APM allows the system BIOS and operating system to share critical power management data while preserving compatibility between the hardware and software during the power conservation process. Additionally, APM can make use of power data it receives from APM-compliant applications. This sharing, which has never existed before, enables the system BIOS to optimize battery savings on portable systems. With support for APM, users can get longer battery life, which is particularly valuable for users of notebook and palmtop systems.

MS-DOS 5, ROM Version

Because of its low RAM requirements and power efficiency, MS-DOS 5, ROM Version, is ideal for use in lightweight, portable systems such as laptop, notebook and hand-held personal computers, where space is at a premium.

MS-DOS 5, ROM Version, is the equivalent of the popular disk version of MS-DOS 5 that has been available tor seven months and has been found to be extremely stable and reliable. In addition, the ROM (read-only memory) version is fully executable out of ROM. Like MS-DOS, the ROM version is compatible with the thousands of MS-DOS-based applications currently available. Users can run their favorite MS-DOS based applications on portable ROM systems just as they do on their desktop PCs, thus maintaining their productivity.

Designed with small form factors in mind, MS-DOS 5, ROM Version, is also very modular. Manufacturers can reduce the amount of memory required for the operating system in order to conserve space, while still preserving full compatibility with the MS-DOS operating system. This modularity allows the system to reside in 64K of ROM, freeing up system RAM for users' applications and data. Additionally, using the ROM-executable MS-DOS system instead of a proprietary operating system can decrease the manufacturer's time to market, because of the advantages of developing with MS-DOS based personal computers and standard programming tools. Finally, the lower cost of goods incurred by the manufacturer minimizing hardware, memory and battery size can translate into lower cost for end users.

All 180 licensees of the MS-DOS 5 disk version will automatically receive licenses for the ROM-executable version. PC vendors such as Hewlett-Packard Co., Tandy Corporation and Zenith Data Systems have already stated support for the product, as have embedded systems vendors such as Telxon Corporation. Many of these same companies, including HP and Telxon, provided a previous version of the ROM-executable MS-DOS operating system with their computer systems.

Interlink Utility Allows Easy Data Transfer

Interlink, a fast data transfer utility available now to all licensees of the MS-DOS 5 system, uses a client-server architecture to connect a portable system to another portable system or to a desktop PC. This makes it easy tor users because Interlink treats the drives on the server as local drives on the client, which allows users to access applications and files located on the server. Interlink is tested to transfer data at speeds of up to 36K per second over a parallel port. Connection between the two systems is made via a standard parallel or serial data transfer cable.

System Support for Solid-state Memory Devices

With the Portable Computing Initiative, Microsoft provides support in both the disk and ROM versions of MS-DOS 5 for solid-state memory devices, such as Flash Memory and PCMCIA-compliant SRAM cards. Software developers can port MS-DOS-based applications easily to these devices, thus making it possible for end users to run the same applications regardless of location, whether in the office or on the go.

Microsoft is working with industry associations to develop specifications for solid-state memory devices. These specifications will help ensure that manufacturers designing portable systems can implement solid-state memory technology and continue to store data and applications compatible with the MS-DOS system architecture.

Vendor Support for Portable Computing Initiative

"Dell Computer Corporation is excited about the opportunities the Portable Computing Initiative represents for our customers," said John Biebelhausen, manager of portable systems at Dell Computer Corporation. "The initiative enables us to deliver new products and capabilities faster and with a lower overall investment."

"By including MS-DOS 5, ROM Version. in our future products, we will be able to offer our customers solutions in a stable and familiar environment," said Howard B. Crystal, vice president of domestic sales and marketing for Everex Systems. "In addition, Microsoft's Portable Computing Initiative will enable us to continue to provide solutions to our customers more easily and efficiently. Interlink, APM and MS-DOS 5 will make a great solutions for our laptop users."

"MS-DOS 5, ROM Version, will contribute to the advancement of hand-held products, such as palmtop PCs," said Daniel Terpack, general manager of HP's Corvallis, Ore., division. "Its technologies provide significant savings in memory space, and Advanced Power Management extends battery life."

"MS-DOS 5, ROM Version, is an ideal solution for our portable embedded systems," said Mike Hulthen, vice president of software systems for Telxon Corporation. "Not only does it allow us to conserve limited memory space, but it is also a time-tested and stable industry standard."


New Multimedia CD-ROM Titles
Three new multimedia CD-ROM titles were published by Bureau Development, Inc.

Monarch Notes on CD-ROM ($99). Simon & Schuster's print version is widely recognized by educators as a definitive source for appreciation of meaning, form, and style of literature. The CD-ROM includes the complete set of over 200 study guides, including author biography, overview of literary style, story synopsis, character analyses, commentaries, bibliography, essay questions and answers, hundreds of illustrations, and spoken excerpts by George Kennedy and others. "If you're reading or studying a well-known book, chances are it's on this disc," said Larry Shiller, CEO of Bureau Development, Inc. "And chances are you'll get more out of your reading because you'll learn more about the author, his or her contemporary life and influence, and what others think about the literature," Shiller said.

Great Literature on CD-ROM ($99) contains the full text of hundreds of literary masterpieces from the dawn of history to the 20th Century, along with reproductions of original illustrations and engravings, related musical excerpts (e.g., Romeo and Juliet, Dixie), and spoken excerpts by George Kennedy, Bob Saget, and Dave Coulier. "The honest truth is, we have no idea how people use the product or why they even buy it, but it's a great seller on the PC side and it's the first and only literature CD-ROM title for the Mac," Shiller said.

The 1992 CIA Multimedia World Fact Book ($99) contains de-classified information from the Central Intelligence Agency. It is illustrated with flags and with beautiful color maps from Hammond, and it includes actual performances of the national anthems. "We weren't able to license performances to all the anthems so we recorded over 100 of them ourselves," Shiller said. Shiller, a concert violinist, participated as a musician on the disc. The 1992 version includes the latest information from the CIA. Owners of an earlier version may upgrade by sending in $49 plus the old disc.

All three titles are available for the PC and Macintosh at the same pricing. Bureau Development titles are distributed by MacAmerica/Merisel, Educorp, Software Toolworks, Compton's New Media, and the Bureau of Electronic Publishing.

Bureau Development, Inc. is a leading publisher of CD-ROM titles for the home education, consumer, and library/university markets. For more information, call 1-201-239-0022, 201-2390511 (Fax). Bureau Development, Inc., 141 New Road, Parsippany, NJ 07054 USA.


C-Debug & C-Verify Tools
UNIX Review raves about C-Debug."The name 'C-Debug: The Pointer Checker for All Systems' describes this product conveniently. It excels at finding pointer problems in code, which may arise due to initialization, reassignment, or freeing variables and arrays.... C-Debug is useful. Once it has trapped a few of your errors, you will quickly get in the habit of relying on it.... The overhead C-Debug adds is minimal, and its benefits are considerable." C-Debug is available for MSDOS and all UNIX systems, starting at $249.00. Coming February 1st, C-Debug Version 2.0. Free upgrades to all customers. Call (800) 462-3932 or (708) 505-3456 to order your upgrade today!

Announcing C-Verify

C-Verify is a Quality Assurance tool which proves that your test suite has taken every possible path through your C-language program. C-Verify assigns a unique label to every conditional branch in your code. After you run your test suite, C-Verify tells you every branch that was not taken, allowing you to devise new tests to fully test your product. C-Verify is available for MS-DOS and all UNIX systems staning at $395.00. Call (800) 462-3932 or (708) 505-3456 for more information.

Softran Corp

One Naperville Plaza, Suite 455, Naperville, IL 60563


WinSTAT Statistics for Windows
WinSTAT, NEW STATISTICS PROGRAM FOR WINDOWS,

IS FIRST ON THE MARKET

A comprehensive new statistics package for Microsoft Windows is now available, according to its publisher, Kalmia Co. Inc. of Cambridge, Massachusetts. The program, called WinSTAT, offers a full repertoire of statistical methods within the popular Windows environment.

Users generate their own data or import files from spreadsheet and database programs like Lotus 1-2-3 and dBASE III. After running statistical analyses on the data, they can use the Windows "clipboard" to cut and paste the resulting tables and graphs into word processing reports and other documents.

WinSTAT is a very powerful program. It offers virtually unlimited variables and cases -- up to 65,000 of each. It also permits a wide variety of data formats, including dates and times. And, because it was developed in the C++ programming language, it is very fast. It is also easy to use, with no command language to learn.

WinSTAT is a true Windows application, not just a DOS program running in a window. As a result, the user can use all the Windows services, like the print manager and context-sensitive Help. There is even a special Help facility called "Which Statistic?" that leads the user through a series of questions and answers to the best statistical method to solve a particular problem.

WinSTAT requires Windows 3.0 or higher and at least 1 megabyte of free hard disk space. A mouse is strongly recommended, although all menu choices are accessible from the keyboard. The program can also make use of a math coprocessor and recognizes one automatically if present in the system.

The complete WinSTAT package, including diskettes and 120-page manual is priced at $395. A working demonstration of the program is available for $10. For a free descriptive brochure or further information, call, FAX, or write Kalmia Co. Inc. Dept. 1071 Dudley Street, Cambridge, MA 02140. Telephone/FAX (same number) (617) 864-5567.


LASERNET Printer Sharing Unit
Western Telematic Inc. (WTI) introduced the LASERNET Model PSU-41 "BP", a low-cost printer sharing unit that can accommodate large capacity, high-level graphics and word processing applications. The PSU-41 BP is designed for all-parallel applications where up to four IBM PC or compatible workstations need to share one laser or dot-matrix printer or plotter.

This newest LASERNET model comes standard with a 256 KB dynamically allocated, auto-configuring buffer that can be expanded up to 4 MB using SlMMs (single in-line memory modules). This expandable memory, coupled with input and output data transfer rates of 8.8K cps and 13K cps respectively, make the "BP" and attractive device for handling large graphics or printing jobs.

The "BP" features a job-origination separator so users can easily identify their individual print jobs. There is also an "end-of-job" pause that make changing paper or pens less cumbersome when using a plotter.

All input ports employ standard parallel connectors for quick and easy installation. The output port accepts a standard PC-to-printer cable.

The PSU-41 "BP" is ideally suited for environments where cost is a consideration and Desktop Publishing, high-level graphics and word processing are the most frequently used applications. It is compatible with most popular software packages for advanced graphics, spreadsheet and word processing applications, and will support all dot-matrix and laser printers including PostScript printers. The "BP" also can be used with all types of plotters. The suggested retail price for the 256 KB version is $295.00 and will be available late January 1992 from Western Telematic.

Western Telematic Inc., headquartered in Irvine, California designs, manufactures and markets data communication equipment including peripheral sharing devices, multiplexers, security modems, data PBX and code activated switches and pollable data collection devices.

Western Telematic Inc, 5 Sterling, Irvine, CA 9271

(714) 586-9950 * tollfree 1-800-854-7226 * fax (714) 583-951


Intro to PCs Audio Cassettes
Specialized Systems Consultants, Inc. (SSC) is pleased to announce the latest in our new line of audio products: Introduction to Personal Computers Audio Cassettes.

The tapes were recorded in response to the many requests SSC has received for assistance in purchasing a computer system. Drawing on SSC's 23 years in the computer industry, we have designed this product to help people understand the basics of a personal computer.

The tapes describe a personal computer systems and its components and discusses in detail the various printers available today. The listener will learn the computer requirements to consider when selecting their own computer and the questions to ask computer sales people. This two cassette audio album is for beginning and would-be computer users. It is priced at $19.95 and will be available February 14, 1992.

Specialized Systems Consultants, Inc. (SSC)

P.O. Box 55549, Seattle, WA 98155

(206) FOR-UNIX or (206) 527-3385

Fax: (206) 527-2806