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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PC Industry Database


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.

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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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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:

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Business & Productivity Software
Business & Productivity Software News:

QFD/Capture for Windows Decision Making Swr

Extended Systems & SuccessWare Tech Sharing

Church Workshop Bulletin Maker for Windows

Gupta Adds Support for Windows NT

Contractor's Dream V5.0 Job Estimating Software

STEPWAY All-in-One, One-for-All Promotion

Values Quest Aid to Setting & Reaching Goals

Target Micro Low-Cost Desktop Marketing Swr

AccSys for dBASE Adds FoxPro Database Support

State Modules Added to Bureaucratic Buddy Swr

Clarion Personal Manager

Approach 2.0 for Windows Introduced in Europe

Ascend for Windows Personal Info Management Swr

IBM Agreement with Franklin Quest for Ascend

Objective Software Relocates Headquarters


Professional/Engineering Software
Professional/Engineering Software News:

Auto-Datum III AutoCAD Dimensioning Package

CFC Replacement Database Environmental Sources

INSTATREND Real-Time Data Acquisition Software

Special Limited Time Offer from Chemical Design

CAD Overlay Users Upgrade to RxRasterCAD V2.0

New Chemical Compatibility Database

Metalsoft CAD/CAM Programming Software

ChemVISION for Windows Release 2.0

AutoDESK Ships New IGES Translator

ADev Introduces & Integrates PRO-PLANT/STEEL


Personal & Educational Software
Personal & Educational Software News:

Retirement Surprise! Retirement Planning Swr

Travel-Mate Software for Frequent Travelers

The Night Before Christmas Talking Storybook

Send Your Computer to Medical School

Thompson Chain HyperBible for Windows

Retire ASAP, Retirement Planning Software


Games & Entertainment Software
Games & Entertainment Software News:

Omar Sharif On Bridge Available for Windows

Barney Bear Goes To Space

Tornado Fighter Jet Simulation Game


System Software & Utilities
System Software & Utilities News:

32-Bit X Window Software for Microsoft Windows

Desaware SpyWorks-VB for Visual Basic

Desaware CCF-Cursors V2.0 for Visual Basic

IconAuthor 5.0 for Windows Multimedia Authoring

NoMouse for Windows Updated

DEBUG*2000 for Unix V3.2 Available

FaxFacts Adds Intel & ComWave Faxboard Support


Macintosh Specific Software
Macintosh Specific Software News:

Multi-Ad Creator 3.5 Ships

Objective Software Ships SpreadBase 1.0

Physics Academic Software - Quantum Scattering

CoSA After Effects for Prof. Special Effects

Vibrational Modes Examines Molecular Motion

Ascend Personal Information Management Swr


Miscellaneous Software
Miscellaneous Software News:

Letter-Art 7.5 Signmaking Software Package

C.Itoh Printers and Letter Art Join Forces


System Hardware
System Hardware News:

NEC Intros New Image 486/66i Systems

NEC Expands System Family of Desktop Computers

NEC Intros PowerMate Series Economical Desktops

Notebook Computer CD-ROM Access

AST PowerExec EL Notebook for Mobile Computing


Expansion Hardware
Expansion Hardware News:

New Media Graphics WatchIT!TV Video Board

Trantor Low-Cost 16-bit SCSI Host Adapter Kits

Trantor MiniSCSI EPP Parallel-to-SCSI Adapter


Peripheral Hardware
Peripheral Hardware News:

Maximum Storage CACHET Caching Optical Disk

US Robotics Reduces Modem Prices

Kodak Filter Wheel for DCS 200 Camera

AMT Introduces Dual-Head Low-Cost Printers


Macintosh Specific Hardware
Macintosh Specific Hardware News:

Apple PowerBook Price Corrections


Miscellaneous Hardware
Miscellaneous Hardware News:

(No entries for this newsgroup)


Books & Publications
Books & Publications:

Freelance Graphics for Windows 2 Made Easy

TurboTax Made Easy

File & Disk Management: From Chaos to Control

Microsoft Access Inside & Out

FoxPro 2.5 for Windows Inside & Out

Paradox for Windows Made Easy

Cobb Group's Windows for Workgroups Companion

Inside Windows NT

Microsoft Money 2.0, Official Swr Companion

Parents, Kids & Computers Creative Learning

MacArcade Top Macintosh Shareware Game Picks

New Books for PC Users from Abacus

Turbo Pascal 7: The Complete Reference

Turbo Pascal 7 Handbook

FORTRAN Programming for Windows

Visual Basic 2 for Windows Inside & Out

New Video CourseWare for Powerpoint 3.0


Miscellaneous News
Miscellaneous News:

PEN-BASED EXPO, March 3-5 1993 Boston, MA

Gupta Technologies Becomes Gupta Corp.

Gupta Honored in Inc. & Data Based Advisor Mags

European PC Software Sales Reach $380 Million

Bruno Blenheim 1993 Computer Trade Show Schedule

NBC, IBM & NuMedia Multimedia Business Comm.

Industry Leaders at SPA 1993 Spring Symposium

NetWorld Shows to be Networks Expo in 1994

Apple Selects AOL Technology for Online Info

Imagine: The Apple Education TV Series Schedule

Apple Participates MACWORLD EXPO San Francisco

Sun Microsystems Combines SunSelect & Sitka

Record SPA Excellence in Swr Award Nominations


32-Bit X Window Software for Microsoft Windows
AGE LOGIC ANNOUNCES INDUSTRY'S FIRST 32-BIT X WINDOW SOFTWARE FOR MICROSOFT WINDOWS

San Diego, CA. December 1, 1992 - AGE Logic, Inc. (AGE) announced XoftWare/32 for Windows, the industry's first 32-bit X Window server software for 386/486 Microsoft Windows-based PCs. Based on MIT's newest X11R5 server code, XoftWare/32 for Windows provides users the ability to concurrently run and display Microsoft Windows and network-based Unix applications on the same PC. XoftWare/32 for Windows also offers many new user-oriented features such as XoftStart, RAPID, CascadeX, MPSS, Automatic Font Substitution (AFS ), and AGE's Color Map Reservation System. Shipments will begin in early January 1993.

"XoftWare/32 for Windows is the first MS Windows-based X server software to take advantage of today's high performance 32-bit 386/486 microprocessor technology," said Craig A. Schmidt, vice president of marketing for AGE. XoftWare/32 for Windows optimizes X performance by making use of many 32-bit related features. These include extended direct memory addressing, increased maximum request size to 256Kbytes, full use of the 386/486 32-bit bus architecture, and optimal use of the 386/486 32-bit instruction set. "XoftWare/32 for Windows brings 32-bit performance to PC-based X," he commented.

MIT's newest X11R5 server technology is incorporated into XoftWare/32 for Windows. Product reliability and performance have been increased through XoftWare/32 for Windows' optimization of internal X server algorithms. By including X11R5 Font Server support, direct access to host-resident fonts is now available. Additional font support includes font scaling, numerous 75 dpi and 100 dpi local fonts, and a MS Windows-based font compiler which converts PCF and BDF font formats to the MS Windows FON format.

XoftWare/32 for Windows offers many new features. XoftStart automates host login and application start-up through a convenient ICON-based click & start feature. MPSS, XoftWare/32 for Windows' Multi-Process Start-Up System, allows multiple clients to start simultaneously. CascadeX positions new windows using either a Microsoft-like cascading window format or MlT's standard X geometry window format. XoftWare/32 for Windows' RAPID System (Resource and Performance Interactive Display) lets the user fine-tune X performance and resources by simply sliding a graphics scale. Automatic Font Substitution (AFS) uniquely ensures mission-critical information is displayed even if the requested font is unavailable. XoftWare/32 for Windows' unique Color Map Reservation System (CMRS) optionally preserves the Microsoft Windows color map for display clarity.

XoftWare/32 for Windows supports all industry leading networks. In addition, a bundled version of Novell's TCP/IP networking software and XoftWare/32 for Windows is also available. A unique one-button installation loads and configures Novell's TCP/IP and XoftWare/32 for Windows. Start-up time is minimized plus favorable pricing makes this an attractive option.

XoftWare/32 for Windows is priced at $495 (US). XoftWare/32 for Windows with Novell's TCP/lP included is priced at $595 (US). AGE is including a coupon for a free XoftWare/32 for Windows upgrade in all shipments of the current 1.6 version of XoftWare for Windows beginning December 1, 1992.

AGE, a privately owned corporation founded in 1984, is a supplier of X Window System software that enables PCs, terminals, workstations and embedded systems to access X applications residing on Unix-based hosts. Marketed under the XoftWare brand name, AGE offers a full family of PC packaged products for distributors/resellers, systems integrators, OEMs, and major end users, as well as customized embedded X products for the world's leading terminal, computer and systems companies. These XoftWare packaged products support industry standards such as Microsoft Windows, DOS, TIGA, 8514, and Unix. AGE has alliances with major silicon, terminal, and workstation companies to develop highly optimized, hardware-specific X servers tailored to their specifications. AGE's worldwide headquarters is located in San Diego, California.

AGE, 9985 Pacific Heights Blvd, San Diego, CA 92121

619-455-8600,  fax: 619-597-6030


Maximum Storage CACHET Caching Optical Disk
MAXIMUM STORAGE INTRODUCES CACHING OPTICAL DISK SUBSYSTEM

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO. DECEMBER 7, 1992 -- Maximum Storage, Inc. today announced a new caching optical disk subsystem. Compatible with PC's running DOS, the new CACHET optical disk subsystem is an order of magnitude faster than non-cached optical disk drives.

CACHET SUBSYSTEM

Cachet combines an ISO Standard 128 MByte optical disk drive, fast SCSI-2 interface and proprietary caching operating software to provide a high-performance mass storage subsystem. Easily installed in any DOS-based PC, CACHET operates just like a standard disk drive and uses industry-standard 31/2-inch optical disks.

"The days of optical storage being perceived as too slow are now behind us," said Dr. Paul Schroeder, Maximum Storage president. "And besides being very fast, CACHET incorporates innovative features not found on other optical disk subsystems."

HIGH-SPEED CACHE SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVES PERFORMANCE

A major feature of CACHET is its unique caching operating software, called "OptoCache". OptoCache is a least-recently-used (LRU) caching system designed specifically for optical disk drives, significantly improving the system-level performance of the optical disk drive. It is automatically configured during CACHET installation procedure and requires no further user intervention. However, options are provided for sophisticated PC users which allow custom tailoring of the cache to their particular computing environment. These options include the use of real or extended memory, a "write through" option for power-failure tolerant systems, the user's selection of cache size used by the PC, etc.

QUIK-WRITE FEATURE ADDS PERFORMANCE TO SUBSYSTEM

In addition to its high-performance cache, CACHET offers a feature designed to even further enhance system-level performance. "QuikWrite" gives the user the option to disable the erase pass and verify pass during write operations, resulting in improvements as great as 60% in write speeds. Many applications can take advantage of this option, including electronic imaging, multimedia presentations and digital audio recording.

DISK AUTO-INITIALIZE FEATURE COMBINES FLEXIBILITY WITH CONVENIENCE

Another CACHET feature is the "Disk Auto-lnitialize" option. With this option, CACHET can be configured to bypass the normal disk initialization procedure and allow virgin optical disks to be automatically initialized after inserted into the optical drive. Besides the obvious advantages of user convenience, "Disk Auto-lnitialize" is particularly well-suited when application programs are not capable of dealing with uninitialized media. When this happens, the OptoCache software will automatically initialize the disk upon insertion and then return control back to the applications program.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

CACHET is supplied as a plug-and-play subsystem with everything required to interface to the host computer. Both internal-mount and external-mount versions are available.

CACHET for the PC includes the 128 MByte optical disk drive, SCSI-2 controller card, cables, OptoCache operating software, documentation and one optical disk. The internal-mount CACHET System 6-INT lists for $2095 in single-unit quantities, while the external-mount CACHET System 6-EXT lists for $2195. Both the CACHET System 6-INT and System 6-EXT are available for immediate shipment.

Optical disk cartridges for CACHET are also available for immediate shipment from Maximum Storage. The M-311 erasable optical disk media lists for $75, also in single-unit quantities.

Maximum Storage, Inc. is a supplier of optical disk subsystems for the computer marketplace. Founded in 1986, the company is headquartered in Colorado Springs which is the center for all research and development, manufacturing and sales and marketing efforts.

Maximum Storage, 5025 Centennial Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80919

(719) 531-6888


Retirement Surprise! Retirement Planning Swr
SOFTWARE FOR A "NO SURPRISES" RETIREMENT

November 25, 1992 -- You may have noticed the rules of the retirement game are changing. With employers cutting funding and some pension fund insurers in trouble, millions of people won't get the pension they expect. You may stay working longer or work part-time in retirement. Plus, you'll need more funds because you'll probably live longer and be in retirement longer. Almost everyone should expect a new type of retirement. It' s now a do-it-yourself situation. Planning to avoid surprises becomes most important and it's never too early to start.

PC users who are serious about achieving a comfortable retirement now have a new resource for proper planning. Software Edge Inc. introduces Retirement Surprise! -- software that shows you what you need at your present age, to retire at every retirement age, while you try out various investment earnings and inflation rates.

Retirement Surprise! asks for amounts of expected pension and Social Security, totals your present savings and investments, and then helps you prepare a retirement budget based on your present expenses. The program computes how much money you'll need each year in retirement, and how much you should put away now in order to have that income. You'll probably need much more savings than you think, for the rest of your life.

Pull-down menus, help screens and an on-line Sample Plan make it easy to get started. A printed guide to the first steps in retirement planning and a brief tutorial are also included. Plan versions may be printed out to follow your progress toward a successful retirement. A hard drive and color monitor are desirable but not required.

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

Introduces users to retirement planning and determines what is adequate retirement capital. Organizes retirement income, expense and present savings data. Investment earnings, shortfall and required savings (lump sum, annual and monthly amounts), for every possible retirement year are then displayed spreadsheet-style so you can scroll through the years to age 90, and track your savings requirement both before and after your retirement. Instant recalculation for any investment return rate and inflation rate. Provisions are made for taking early Social Security, and for pensions with or without a cost of living adjustment. Printed guide to the first steps in retirement planning includes a tutorial, and a sample plan is a menu choice to give a quick start. 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee.

For IBM compatibles, DOS 2.1 or later. 364K RAM and Hard Drive. Price $49.00 - Shipping/Handling $2.50. 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee. MC & Visa order line 800-321-5250

Software Edge, 112 Ocean Bay Dr, Key Largo, FL 33037

305-451-6270.


Omar Sharif On Bridge Available for Windows
Interplay's Omar Sharif on Bridge Now Available for Windows

Irvine, CA (November 16, 1992) - Interplay Productions and master bridge player, Omar Sharif today announced the release for Windows of the industry's first talking bridge game, Omar Sharif On Bridge. This comprehensive and challenging bridge game and tutor was the cooperative effort of Interplay and Omar Sharif, world famous bridge columnist.,

With its on-disk tutorial, Sharif On Bridge is an easy way to learn to play one of the world's most popular card games. Throughout the game, players will hear Omar Sharif congratulate them on bold finesses or suggest another lead if their game needs some fine tuning.

Sharif's On Bridge has many features including a novice mode which will slow down game play or offer helpful hints, and the "Take Back" and "Rebid" features. The more advanced player can set up his own hands to practice slams, defensive plays or to work on specific weaknesses. The player can also opt for random hands, open hands or to switch hands with the computer.

Sharif On Bridge features full VGA graphics and offers several selections of card decks and playing surfaces. The program uses digitized speech, has a complete musical score and supports most major sound boards. Omar Sharif On Bridge is now available for the IBM and Windows. Players may purchase direct through Interplay at 1-800-969-GAME or through most major software retailers nationwide.

Interplay Productions, 17922 Fitch Ave, Irvine, CA 92714

714-553-6655, Fax: 714-252-2820


Travel-Mate Software for Frequent Travelers
TRAVEL-MATE, SOFTWARE FOR THE FREQUENT TRAVELER

Charlotte, August 9, 1992 - TRAVEL-MATE (2.1) is easy to use, IBM compatible software, for the frequent traveler. It gives valuable information on hundreds of cities, including the best restaurants and hotels. It also gives data on states, such as local laws and toll roads, and airport information. TRAVEL-HATE helps the business traveler manage paperwork with a Time Management module, online phone book and expense account reporting. It lets you make the most of frequent flyer programs, by logging travel and points, and displaying frequent flyer hotel, useful utilities are also included.

TRAVEL-MATE lists for only $79 including shipping and is available from Vista Research, PO Box 667545, Charlotte NC 28266-7545. Requires DOS 2.0 or higher and 512K of RAM.


US Robotics Reduces Modem Prices
U.S. ROBOTICS ANNOUNCES DRAMATIC PRICE REDUCTIONS ON COURIER V.32 BIS FAX AND DATA MODEMS

SKOKIE, Ill. -- November 24, 1992 -- U.S. Robotics, Inc. today announced major price reductions for its Courier V.32bis modems, including standalone, PC-internal, and fax modems. The price reductions, effective immediately, decrease the list prices by $200, making the brand the lowest priced, most fully-featured high speed modem available in the growing V.32bis modem market.

"We're committed to providing our customers with the latest technologies and features while offering them the best value available," said Jonathan Zakin, U.S. Robotics executive vice president of sales and marketing. "The price reductions make our popular Courier V.32bis modem more accessible to users who are now upgrading their communications capabilities to 14,400 bps."

The Courier V.32bis provides the most cost-effective upgrade path to the forthcoming CCITT 28.8 Kbps standard. The price reduction allows users to purchase both the modem and the future 28.8 Kbps upgrade for less than $1000. Field upgrades will be available for $299 as soon as the CCITT 28.8 Kbps recommendation is completed; official approval of the standard is not expected until January, 1994.

"Our pricing strategy allows our customers to pay less now for the industry's top-quality V.32bis 14,400 bps modem, and convert to 28,800 bps when the new standard is decided," added Zakin.

The Courier modem line, the company's flagship product line, was expanded this year to include new products and features, including upgradability to the CCITT-proposed 28.8 Kbps standard, fax products, and the new HST protocol for 16,800 bps. Courier products also are the corporate standard at several Fortune 500 companies. Courier high-speed products include CCITT V.32bis compatibility for 14,400 bps communication; combined with V.42bis data compression, V.32bis enables them to transmit data with a maximum effective throughput of 57,600 bps.

Price Reductions

Product Name                 Previous Price      New Price

Courier V.32bis                  $895               $695

Courier V.32bis/PC                845                645

Courier V.32bis FAX               995                795

Courier V.32bis FAX/PC            945                745

U.S. Robotics, Inc., (NASDAQ:USRX), is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of data communications systems and products. Both corporate headquarters and manufacturing operations are based in Skokie, Ill. U.S. Robotics owns and operates Miracom Technology Ltd., Slough, England, and U.S. Robotics, s.a., Lille, France. The company markets its products to business, industry, government agencies and original equipment manufacturers.

U.S. Robotics, 8100 North McCormick Blvd. Skokie, IL 60076

708/982-5010


PEN-BASED EXPO, March 3-5 1993 Boston, MA
Never before in history have we seen such rapid changes in the area of mobile computing. The pen-based and mobile computing industries have been gathering steam. The operating systems, development tools, pen-based tablets, wireless communications technology and the vast infrastructure of consultants, training companies and OEM companies are here NOW!

Digital Consulting, Inc. is pleased to announce our highly successful conference and exposition program.

                    PEN-BASED EXPO

              The Hynes Convention Center

                     Boston, MA

                   March 3-5, 1993

Pen-Based EXPO is the only focused event that examines how to take advantage of new computing paradigms such as pen-based and mobile technology. No doubt you've heard of the massive use of pen computing that United Parcel Service has employed; what you probably haven't seen is the dozens--if not hundreds--of applications from order entry to medical technology, from client service to field diagnostics, where mobile, pen-based machines are helping organizations capture more data, more quickly, and more accurately. Mobile, pen-based computing is revolutionizing the way we conduct business!

At Pen-Based EXPO You'll:

* Discover the wide range of available pen computing hardware "form factors"-- ranging from palm-top sized machines to notebooks, to desktop PCs augmented with pen computing

* Examine the technical details of the new operating systems that work with penbased machines

* Learn from the innovators who have already begun deploying pen-based applications on a large scale

* Understand the cultural and legal issues of pen so you can bring this new technology smoothly into your organization

* Hear about the capabilities and limitations of the current technology so you can plan appropriately

* See how pen computing can improve business processes and help your organization become more productive

Pen-Based EXPO features 8 Focused Conferences:

* Systems Integration Conference

* Hardware Conference

* Personal Devices Conference

* Management Issues Conference

* Developing/Programming for Pen Conference

* Mobile Communications Conference

* Enabling Technologies Conference

* User Stories Conference

Hear from over 70 Experts including:

Ed Yourdon, Conference Chairman

   American Programmer

Tim Bajarin

   Creative Strategies Research, Inc.

Gilbert Cargill

   The IDK Group, Inc.

Barton Goldenberg

   ISM, Inc.

Gerald Michalski Release 1.0

   Release 1.0

George Barlow

   Distributed Micro Systems

Madeline Duva

   CIC

S. Jerrold Kaplan

   GO Corporation

Ken Orr

   Ken Orr Institute

Alan Yong

   Dauphin Technology

As a special bonus, all Pen-Based EXPO attendees are invited to attend DCI's new Mobile World conference and exposition. Mobile World runs concurrently with Pen-Based EXPO, and features comprehensive coverage of crucial mobile computing issues.

Call DCI today at (508) 470-3880 to receive your free information-packed brochure. I look forward to seeing you in Boston!

Digital Consulting Inc

204 Andover St, Andover, MA 01810

508-470-3880, Fax: 508-470-0526


QFD/Capture for Windows Decision Making Swr
ITI ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF QFD/CAPTURE FOR MICROSOFT WINDOWS

MILFORD, Ohio, October 15, 1992 - International TechneGroup Incorporated (ITI) announces the release of QFD/CAPTURE for Microsoft Windows.

The most powerful, versatile Quality Function Deployment (QFD) software for critical on-going decision making, QFD/CAPTURE is now available for the popular Windows environment.

The introduction of a Windows version of QFD/CAPTURE marks the latest in a series of technical improvements which have made QFD/CAPTURE the best selling QFD software system in the world.

In January, 1992, m introduced QFD CAPTURE Version 2.2 which reflected advances in ease of use and provided greater flexibility in presenting QFD data. These advances, as well as others, are embodied in the Windows version of the product.

Specifically, as the Microsoft Windows operating system has made personal computing easier for everyone, QFD/CAPTURE for Windows has made the decision making process provided by the QFD methodology easier than ever. In addition to improving the ease of use of the software, the Windows environment has resulted in an increase in productivity as well.

ITI is recognized as the international leader providing Concurrent Product and Manufacturing Process Development (CP/PD) services and related software products. CP/PD is more than another acronym for concurrent engineering or simultaneous engineering. CP/PD is the "next generation" capability that will differentiate 21st century manufacturing winners from losers. By focusing on parallel team development processes, integrated computer systems and lean implementation strategies through the entire product and manufacturing process development life cycle, clients are implementing shorter development cycles (shorter time to market), while achieving world class product quality and cost. The m Family of Companies multi-platform software products, consulting, engineering and educational services provide clients with a full range and depth of technical knowledge and experience, unsurpassed by any known global competitor.

International TechneGroup Inc

5303 DuPont Circle, Milford, Ohio 45150

(513) 576-3900


Extended Systems & SuccessWare Tech Sharing
TECHNOLOGY SHARING AGREEMENT PROMISES ADVANCED CLIENT/SERVER PERFORMANCE FOR dBASE COMPATIBLE APPLICATIONS

Boise, ID, October 9, 1992 -- Extended Systems and SuccessWare90 Inc. announced today a joint technology-sharing agreement. This agreement paves the way for a marriage of Extended Systems' Novell client/server expertise and SuccessWare's developments with Replaceable Database Drivers (RDD). Advances created by the marriage of this expertise will significantly improve the performance of Xbase databases running on Novell servers.

Extended Systems has designed and successfully marketed a number of advanced NetWare Loadable Modules. The most recent, ExtendBase, is a client/server solution that makes indexing, reporting and querying functions on existing Xbase databases run up to 15 times faster. Traditional database applications send all the data across the network to be processed on the workstation. Through client/server technology, data is processed quickly in a NetWare Loadable Module running on the file server where the data is stored. The result is users get their data faster, indexes are built faster and overall network traffic is reduced.

SuccessWare is the developer of the SIx Driver, a revolutionary Replaceable Database Driver (RDD) for Clipper developers. The SIx Driver brings the sophisticated FoxPro indexing schemes to the powerful Clipper application development environment. SuccessWare's SIx Driver index files are fully compatible with FoxPro 2, including maintainable, CONDITIONAL indexes and COMPOUND indexes that hold up to 99 indexes in a single file.

The SIx Driver technology compresses the often sizable index files used by Clipper applications. Compression can be as high as 90%, saving disk space and improving application performance.

In related news, Extended Systems has announced that they now hold an equity position in SuccessWare90.

Since 1984, Extended Systems has been dedicated to developing database products which extend the functionality and capabilities of our customers' existing database resources. Extended Systems database products are known for their high-performance, reliability and ease of use.

Extended Systems, 6123 N. Meeker Ave, Boise, ID 83704

208-322-7575; Fax: 208-377-1906


New Media Graphics WatchIT!TV Video Board
NEW MEDIA GRAPHICS INTRODUCES LOWEST-COST TV IN A PC

Users Watch TV in a Window While Working in Windows or DOS Applications

BILLERICA, Mass., Oct. 19, 1992 -- PC users no longer need to choose between bringing work home from the office and spending the evening watching their favorite TV programs. And users who must stay tuned continuously to financial markets or other news sources no longer need to bounce back and forth between a TV and their PCs. They can now easily work and watch TV simultaneously.

WatchIT!TV, a low-cost PC video board from New Media Graphics, lets users watch TV in a window on their PCs while working at the computer. As they watch, users can capture the TV image at any point and save it in a variety of popular image formats.

At a list price of $349, WatchIT!TV is the lowest-cost TV-in-a-window product available for PCs. Its street price is expected to be approximately $299.

"WatchIT!TV offers quality TV and framegrabbing performance on the PC at a very aggressive price," said Joe Bane, New Media Graphics' vice president, sales and marketing. "It's very simple to install, easy to use, and its price makes these capabilities affordable for the first time for home users."

Users can position the TV window anywhere on the screen and size it to 1/4, 1/16, or the entire screen.

With a few keystrokes, users can freeze the TV image and save it on the hard disk for use in other PC applications, enhancing reports, business presentations, and other documents with full-color images. WatchIT!TV supports framegrabbing in all the popular image formats, including PCX, BMP, BMP-24, and all TGA formats.

An on-screen pop-up control pad that looks like a hand-held TV remote control allows users to change channels; adjust volume, color, and screen size; and save still images -- all without leaving their application program. A programmable timer turns on the TV at the time and channel selected by the user.

WatchIT!TV lets users view video from a variety of sources: it connects to an antenna, cable, VCR, or video camera. The board can be installed in minutes inside the PC with a screwdriver.

WatchIT!TV requires a PC-AT and higher compatible with an 8- or 16-bit ISA slot, a VGA card with feature connector providing 640 by 480 resolution, and Windows 3.0 and higher or DOS 3.01 and higher.

New Media Graphics covers WatchIT!TV parts and labor for a full year. Available immediately in computer retail stores, WatchIT!TV is designed and manufactured in the U.S.

New Media Graphics, a privately held, venture-backed firm, offers a modular family of low-cost, full-feature, multimedia boards for PCs and PS/2 systems. Its boards are supported by its own software offerings as well as by multimedia software packages from vendors such as Microsoft, AimTech, Asymetrix, Knowledge Garden, Lenel, Software Publishing and others. Founded in 1981, the Billerica, Mass.-based company markets its products directly and through original equipment manufacturers, value-added resellers, national distributors, and computer retail stores.

New Media Graphics, 780 Boston Rd, Billerica, MA 01821

508-663-0666; Fax: 508-663-6678


Church Workshop Bulletin Maker for Windows
Bulletin Maker for Windows version 1.0 announced

T.R.Software has announced the release of version 1.0 of their Bulletin Maker computer program. This Windows based program finally ends the tedious cut and paste process used by many churches when creating their worship bulletins.

Extensive testing of Bulletin Maker in churches of many denominations has shown that this program drastically reduces the amount of time and skill required to produce a worship bulletin. Also, testers have reported many positive comments by church members regarding the professional look and readability of the new bulletins.

T.R.Software understands that many churches use part time or volunteer personnel to create their worship bulletins. This fact required that ease of use be a primary design goal. With its comprehensive online help system and T.R.Software's free telephone support, Bulletin Maker may prove to be the most user friendly computer program used by the church.

Bulletin Maker creates worship bulletins using either the 8.5" x 11" or 8.5" x 14" formats. Bulletin text may begin on page one or two depending on whether the church uses preprinted bulletin paper.

Bulletin text is entered one page after another starting with page one and continuing to page four. Bulletin Maker takes care of the hard part of printing pages four and one on one sheet of paper and pages two and three on another sheet. These sheets can then be taken directly to the copy machine for reproduction.

Bulletin Maker's unique combination of a word processor and a desk top publishing program means that it provides the only tool needed for the production of worship bulletins. It also contains features not found in general purpose word processors such as the left / right justify function (great for Hymns) and the text start page option.

Bulletin Maker is available now from T.R.Software for $49.95 and may be purchased with check or money order by writing T.R.Software, 2004 Stonewall St. Dublin, Ga. 31021. Credit card orders may be placed by calling 912-275-3627.

A fully functional evaluation copy may be obtained by sending a copy of your current worship bulletin to T.R.Software. This evaluation copy may be used for thirty days and is designed to help the church make an educated purchase decision.


Multi-Ad Creator 3.5 Ships

November 16, 1992 -- Multi-Ad Services, Inc., of Peoria, IL, is announcing that Version 3.5 of Multi-Ad Creator is now shipping. Multi-Ad Creator is an ad design and layout program developed especially for the Apple Macintosh electronic production environment.

Multi-Ad Creator continues to offer the flexibility of a drawing program combined with the versatility of a page layout program. The latest version not only enhances Creator's System 7.0 compatibility with Balloon Help and Subscribe, but also features advanced auto-masking capabilities for graphics and new color gradient fills. Creator 3.5 provides support for the industry standard OPI (Open PrePress Interface) as well as improved printer support with the addition of PPD files.

The suggested retail price of Multi-Ad Creator 3.5 is $995.00 (U.S.). Registered users may obtain upgrades directly from Multi-Ad Services for $149.00 (U.S.) plus $5.00 (U.S.) for shipping and handling. Those registered users who purchased Creator 3.0 after June 6, 1992, are eligible to receive the upgrade for $50.00 (U.S.) plus $5.00 (U.S.) shipping and handling.

Multi-Ad Creator is a product of Multi-Ad Services, Inc. For over 45 years, Multi-Ad Services has provided customers with the most advanced and comprehensive retail advertising services available.

Multi-Ad Services, 1720 W. Detweiller Drive Peoria, IL 61615-1695

Phone (309) 692-1530,  Fax (309) 692-6566


Barney Bear Goes To Space
November 30, 1992 -- Join Barney Bear on his adventure in space! Space is exciting for children, and Barney Bear presents space-related information in an entertaining way. Barney Bear joins the astronauts on the Space Shuttle, when on a school trip, he accidentally falls asleep on the conveyor belt loading the Shuttle's supplies.

Barney Bear Goes To Space includes information on all of the planets in the solar system, a history or space travel, fun facts about space, a repeat-the-pattern game, and a coloring book program. The simple interface allows even the youngest children to enjoy Barney Bear's pleasant graphics and amusing speech.

Barney Bear Goes To Space is recommended for children 3-8. Barney Bear Goes To Space works with IBM and compatible computers with a CD-ROM drive. The program requires 1 megabyte of memory, a mouse, and VGA graphics. The program also supports Super VGA; AdLib, SoundBlaster, and compatible sound cards. The suggested retail price is $39.95. For more information, contact Mainstream America at 1012 South Main Street, Taylor, PA 18517. Phone (717) 562-0650.


Gupta Adds Support for Windows NT
Gupta Expands 32-Bit Strategy With Support For Windows NT

Las Vegas, NV, November 16, 1992--Gupta Corporation is expanding its support for 32-bit platforms with the announcement today that the company's client-server products will be supporting Microsoft's Windows NT operating system.

Gupta is currently developing Windows NT versions of its SQLBase Server database server, SQLWindows client-server application development software package, and Quest, a front-end query and reporting tool for end-users. Availability of Gupta's Windows NT products is expected in 1993.

Gupta's support of Windows NT furthers the company's 32-bit multi-platform strategy, which currently includes support for Unix (including Univel's UnixWare operating system) and IBM's OS/2 2.0. Gupta is porting SQLBase Server to OS/2 2.0 and Univel's UnixWare. It is also porting SQLWindows, Quest, SQLGateway/Database Manager and SQLGateway APPC to OS/2 2.0. SQLBase is currently available for DOS, Microsoft Windows, IBM OS/2, Novell NetWare (as an NLM) and Sun UNIX.

"We're pleased that Gupta is bringing its client-server products to Windows NT," said Dwayne Walker, Director of Windows NT Marketing, Microsoft Corporation. "By combining Gupta's downsizing tools with the strength of the Windows NT platform as a powerful desktop and server operating system, corporations will be able to more efficiently re-engineer their mission-critical applications."

"NT is a powerful and robust platform for database clients and servers, and will be a critical platform for our customers downsizing and rightsizing high end mission critical applications to PC networks," said Earl Stahl, Gupta's Vice President of Desktop Products. "In addition to its multitasking benefits and the increased performance characteristic of 32-bit systems, NT will give client-server users increased security and network management features. 32-bit support allows the development of mission-critical client-server applications that take full advantage of today's hardware technologies."

Gupta Corporation, founded in 1984, is the leading vendor of client-server database software for PC networks. Gupta's products are widely used by major corporations to downsize/rightsize their applications to PC LANs.

Gupta's SQLBase Server pioneered the market for PC client-server databases, and continues to be the only such database designed expressly for networked PCs. The NLM version recently established a new performance standard for PC client-server databases. SQLWindows has been instrumental in the growth of applications developed for client-server networks. Quest is a data access, query and reporting tool for end-users, and SQLNetwork is a family of software products (SQLGateway and SQLRouter) for connecting Gupta tools and servers to other server data sources including DB2, ORACLE, Sybase and Microsoft SQL Server, Informix, AS/400 Database, HP/ALLBASE and HP/TurboIMAGE, Cincom SUPRA Server and others.

Gupta Corp, 1060 Marsh Rd, Menlo Park, CA 94025

415-321-9500;  Fax: 415-321-5471


Gupta Technologies Becomes Gupta Corp.
Gupta Technologies Becomes Gupta Corporation

New Name Reflects Company's Focus As Client-Server Solutions Provider

Menlo Park, Calif., November 2, 1992--Gupta Corporation announced today that the company has been renamed Gupta Corporation to more accurately reflect its focus and stature as a leading provider of client-server solutions. "We have always been a technology leader in the client-server business. However, as we've grown to become a market leader, changing the word 'technologies' to 'corporation' more accurately reflects our mission as well as our business focus," said Umang P. Gupta, president and CEO of Gupta Corporation.

Gupta Corporation, founded in 1984, is the leading vendor of client-server database software for PC networks. Gupta's products are widely used by major corporations to downsize/rightsize their applications to PC LANs.

Gupta's SQLBase Server pioneered the market for PC client-server databases, and continues to be the only such database designed expressly for networked PCs. The NetWare Loadable Module version recently established a new performance standard for PC client-server databases. SQLWindows has been instrumental in the growth of applications developed for client-server networks. Quest is a data access, query and reporting tool for end-users, and SQLNetwork is a family of software products (SQLGateway and SQLRouter) for connecting Gupta tools and servers to other server data sources including DB2, Oracle, Sybase and Microsoft SQL Server, Informix, AS/400 Database, HP/Allbase SQL and HPITurboImage, Cincom Supra Server and others.

Gupta Corp, 1060 Marsh Rd, Menlo Park, CA 94025

415-321-9500;  Fax: 415-321-5471


Gupta Honored in Inc. & Data Based Advisor Mags
Gupta Honored in Inc. and Data Based Advisor Magazine

Gupta's SQLWindows, Quest and SQLBase Win Four Data Based Advisor 1992 Readers Choice Awards

Gupta Ranks #199 On Inc. 500 List

Menlo Park, Calif., November 16, 1992-- Gupta Corporation has been recognized for its success in the client-server database software market recently with four "Best Product" awards from the readers of Data Based Advisor and a ranking of #199 on Inc. Magazine's 1992 list of America's 500 fastest-growing privatey-held companies.

The readers of Data Based Advisor Magazine voted Gupta Corporation's client-server products as the best products of 1992 in their respective categories. Gupta SQLWindows won the Readers Choice award in two categories: the Best Development Product and the Best Front-End Development Product. Gupta Quest was honored as the Best Query Search Utility. Gupta SQLBase Server tied with Microsoft SQL Server for first place in the Best Database Server category.

To be eligible for the 1992 Inc. 500, a company must be independent and privately held. The rankings are based on the percentage increase in sales from 1987 through 1991. The companies had to show at least $100,000 but no more than $25 million in sales for 1987 and had to register a sales increase between 1990 and 1991. Gupta's revenues increased 103% from $11.0 million in 1990 to $21.3 million in 1991.

Gupta Corporation, founded in 1984, is the leading vendor of client-server database software for PC networks. The company makes end-user and application development tools, SQL database servers and SQL connectivity software. Gupta's products are widely used by Fortune 500 companies to downsize/rightsize their applications to PC LANs.

Gupta Corp, 1060 Marsh Rd, Menlo Park, CA 94025

415-321-9500;  Fax: 415-321-5471


Freelance Graphics for Windows 2 Made Easy

by Bryan Pfaffenberger

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces the December 1992 publication of Freelance Graphics for Windows 2 Made Easy, a new book that will become an indispensable guide to creating stunning and effective presentations with this outstanding graphics program from Lotus Development Corporation.

Step-by-step, Freelance Graphics for Windows 2 Made Easy will quickly teach users how to create high-impact visuals that communicate important ideas. The book covers a wealth of topics beginning with basic concepts of business graphics and presentations, and why these presentations need to be planned in advance. Author Bryan Pfaffenberger, who is an Associate Professor in the School of Engineering and Design at the University of Virginia, moves on to cover all the unique features of Freelance Graphics for Windows, including how to spice up ordinary presentations through the SmartMaster sets, fonts. and colors: taking advantage of the wide range of graph types: as well as getting the most from real-world hints Pfaffenberger developed in his many years of teaching written and oral communication.

Written for everyone from novices to experts, Freelance Graphics for Windows 2 Made Easy can help anyone pull off presentations that are the envy of all.

$24.95   ISBN:  0-07-881899-0       560 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


TurboTax Made Easy

by Yvonne Johnson & Bruce Smith, CPA

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of TurboTax Made Easy, a new guide to the top-selling TurboTax software, including the DOS version of Headstart and Final Editions for 1992 Tax Returns.

Yvonne Johnson, the bestselling author of Enable: The Complete Reference. and seasoned tax expert, Bruce Smith help newcomers to use TurboTax with confidence through this step-by-step guide. For TurboTax users upgrading to this year's release, TurboTax Made Easy provides an abundance of tips on how to maximize this popular tool.

Every TurboTax user can benefit from tax-saving advice that can be put to use immediately. The authors cover a range of important topics beginning with installation and setup of TurboTax through screen-by-screen instructions, and how to save time by quickly identifying pertinent forms. Users will discover how to take advantage of TurboTax's cross-referencing capabilities; how to configure the printer to accommodate IRS requirements; how to use What If worksheets to perform fast hypothetical calculations; and gaining an insider's advantage by consulting U.S. Averages and IRS Audit Flags.

With additional tips on filing returns, and answers to 100 commonly-asked tax-related questions, this book is sure to help TurboTax users take control of their 1992 taxes.

$19.95  ISBN:  0-07-881885-0           384 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


File & Disk Management: From Chaos To Control

(Include One 3.5-Inch Disk)

by Alfred Glossbrenner

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of File & Disk Management: From Chaos To Control, a new book/disk package by bestselling author, Alfred Glossbrenner.

Glossbrenner has put together nothing less than a complete kit for maximizing performance, capacity, and security on any hard drive. Among the goldmine of topics covered, PC users will learn how a hard drive works, and how and where to buy the right drive; installing any hard drive including software setup and hardware connections; the inside story on IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics); the best way to navigate through the system (DOS, menus, shells, and front ends). plus clever batch file tips; tweaking any hard drive for speed; boosting a drive's capacity that can nearly double the disk space; and much more.

Readers will also benefit from the 3.5-inch disk packed with crucial software utilities and tools, including McAfee's Anti-Virus Package; DIET, the 100% DOS compatible file shrinker; ORG, which can boost a hard disk performance; PLUS, a clutch of tools to help clean up a disk; and much more.

Glossbrenner's book/disk package is the ULTIMATE hard disk handbook that no hard disk user should be without.

$39.95        ISBN:  0-07-881834-6      752 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


Auto-Datum III AutoCAD Dimensioning Package
AUTO-DATUM III

THE AUTOMATIC DATUM DIMENSIONING PACKAGE FOR AUTOCAD RELEASE 12 VERSION NOW SHIPPING.

East Providence, RI. December 4, 1992--Cadmaster, Inc. today released Auto-Datum III Release 12 version, the automatic datum dimensioning package for AutoCAD Release 12. Auto-Datum III is the 3rd generation of the six year old Auto-Datum software. With many users world wide, Auto-Datum has set the standard for enhancing AutoCAD's ordinate dimensioning capabilities.

Auto-Datum III features three modes of operation: Automatic, Semi-automatic and Dimension editing mode.

In the automatic mode, the user selects two window corner points. In seconds, Auto-Datum III automatically dimensions up to 2500 locations inside the window, optionally counting the number of multiple in-line locations. The user has control over whether a location is dimensioned using 2,3,4 place decimal, or fractions.

In single-pick dimensioning, the dimension location is selected first and the text placement location is chosen next. Auto-Datum III generates the extension line and dimension value.

In multiple-pick dimensioning, the user selects only the dimension locations, one after another and the software automatically extends each extension line to the same level, so that each dimension is neat and in-line. This method allows the user to rapidly dimension many locations with a minimum of effort.

In the dimension editing mode, Auto-Datum III allows extension lines and text values to be "dog-legged" (with full control over the dog-leg location & appearance). Dimensions can also be automatically mirrored with a single pick.

A number of improvements have been made, including the following new features.

* Automatic Program installation

* Program can be installed on any drive and sub-directory.

* Up to 2500 locations can be simultaneously dimensioned.

* Entities can be dimensioned anywhere in 3D space.

* Circles, Arcs, Lines, Text, Polylines, Blocks can be

  automatically dimensioned.

* Full control over which entities are to be dimensioned

  and dimension precision.

* Adds to AutoCAD Release 12's ordinate dimensioning

  capabilities.

* Dimensions can be either associative or non-associative.

* Auto-Datum III seamlessly integrates inside of AutoCAD.

* A Release 12 cascading menu system with dialog boxes makes

  configuring, learning and using Auto-datum III software quick

  and easy.

Auto-Datum III requires AutoCAD Release 10 or greater and a graphics board supporting the pop down menus. The software is shipping now and the retail price of the software is $295.00. Auto-Datum III Release 11 users can upgrade to Auto-Datum III / Release 12 for $75.00. Auto-Datum II users can upgrade to Auto-Datum III / Release 12 for $150.00.

CadMaster, 879 Waterman Ave, East Providence, RI 02914

401-434-2970


Microsoft Access Inside & Out

by Mary Campbell

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of Microsoft Access Inside & Out, a new book by bestselling author Mary Campbell, who provides readers with an insider's introduction to Microsoft's new feature-packed relational database that industry experts predict will capture the Windows database market.

This new book provides database users with numerous creative, professional, and practical examples to help apply Access features and i-unctions to specific database needs. Readers will discover how to design and customize a database in the easy-to-use Windows environment; how to build on basic techniques to acquire advanced skills in database design and management; how to enjoy a smooth transition to Access from a current database environment including dBASE and other popular programs; how to take advantage of Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) to import charts and illustrations from other programs and create polished, multimedia presentations; how to automate work with macros; how to edit, secure, and back up data in a multi-user networked environment; and more.

Get the fastest start and most complete benefits from Microsoft's hot new relational database program for Windows, with Microsoft Access Inside & Out.

$27.95              ISBN:  0-07-881818-4           707 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


FoxPro 2.5 for Windows Inside & Out

by Edward Jones

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of FoxPro 2.5 for Windows Inside & Out an outstanding new guide by database expert Ed Jones, one of the all-time bestselling authors on FoxPro.

In this latest book, Jones focuses on FoxPro's new Windows release, providing hands-on lessons and skill-building exercises to help users get the most from FoxPro 2.5 for Windows. Written for users at all levels, anyone working with this new version will find valuable information, especially current FoxPro users upgrading to Windows, and experienced users familiar with other database products who are switching to FoxPro.

For beginners, Jones provides step-by-step instructions on database creation, while intermediate users benefit from helpful examples and illustrations on querying, sorting, indexing, and reporting. Advanced users will appreciate discussions on how to take advantage of FoxPro when creating and using custom applications. With Jones' help, anyone working with FoxPro can broaden their understanding of the program by reviewing the detailed descriptions of every FoxPro command, function, and parameter.

For users of this powerful software, FoxPro 2.5 for Windows Inside & Out, is one book not to be missed.

$27.95 ISBN:  0-07-881898-2           720 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


Paradox for Windows Made Easy

by Edward Jones

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of Paradox for Windows Made Easy, a new book that gives Paradox users the fastest start to learning the Windows version of this award-winning relational database.

In Paradox for Windows Made Easy, anyone new to Paradox will find step-by-step coverage of software installation, creating a database and manipulating data, and how to print professional-quality reports. For Paradox users switching to the Windows version, database pro Ed Jones, teaches users all the unique Windows features, and more advanced capabilities that offer true power. Jones also provides users with up-to-the-minute information on working with important Paradox features such as the query-by-example facility, custom form capabilities, and importing existing files from other databases and spreadsheets, giving Paradox for Windows users a headstart in productive computing.

For a quick start to Paradox for Windows, this example-packed book is the way to go.

Ed Jones is the author of the top selling, Paradox Made Easy, and numerous other bestsellers on dBASE and FoxPro. As a Washington, D.C. area consultant. Jones specializes in database design for law firms and government agencies.

$19.95              ISBN:  0-07-881767-6           464 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


European PC Software Sales Reach $380 Million
European PC Software Sales Reach $380 Million in Third Quarter 1992

Sales Grows Rebounds to Highest Point in Year

December 8, 1992 (Washington, DC) During the third quarter of 1992, Western European sales of North American software firms increased 33% to $380 million, the Software Publishers Association (SPA) announced today.

Thirty-seven US-based software firms participated in the SPA's data program by submitting confidential data to the accounting firm of Arthur Andersen, which prepared the report for the SPA. Participants included: Aldus, Borland, Claris, Lotus, Microsoft, Software Publishing, Symantec, T/Maker, WordPerfect, and Wordstar. The data was collected in 20 software categories (including word processors, spreadsheets, presentation graphics, and others) and in six software formats (including Macintosh, DOS, and Windows).

The thirty-seven firms reported aggregate European software sales of $380 million in the third quarter 1992. Third quarter sales grew 33% from the third quarter 1991, the highest growth rate of 1992, bringing the year-to-date growth up to 20%.

Once again, Germany/Austria was the largest software market for US-based companies. After a decline in the first quarter, sales growth rebounded in the second and third quarter. Sales in the UK/Ireland market have remained strong all year. Sales growth has been above 35% in all three quarters of 1992, and was 40% in the third quarter, the highest growth of the three major European markets. Software sales in France also started to recover in the latest quarter, rising 13% vs. the year-ago figure. In the first quarter, sales in France had declined 4%, while second quarter sales grew by just 2%. Switzerland had the highest growth of the markets, reporting sales 170% above last year's quarter.

"In general, the numbers this quarter are encouraging," said David Tremblay, SPA's Research Director. "Software sales in Europe are recovering from the doldrums we saw earlier in 1992. For the first time in several quarters, European growth in the third quarter (33%) was higher than was the growth in North America (12%)."

"The figures once again show the importance of Windows applications in Europe," said Gerard Gabella, Managing Director of SPA Europe. "Europe has embraced Windows applications to a much greater extent than has North American. In six of the eight European markets we track, Windows applications out sold DOS applications, often by two times. Overall, Windows applications accounted for 58% of Western European applications revenue, while DOS applications declined to 32%. Macintosh applications remained steady at 8% of revenues. By contrast, Windows applications accounted for 32% of third quarter sales in North America, compared with 46% for DOS and 17% for Macintosh."

The Software Publishers Association is the principal worldwide trade association of the PC software industry. Its more than 1000 members represent the leading publishers of business, consumer, and education software in North America and Europe. Headquartered in Washington, DC, the SPA Europe office is located in Paris, France.

Software publishers Association

1730 M St, Northwest, Suite 700, Washington, D.C. 20036

202-452-1600,  Fax: 202-223-8756


Cobb Group's Windows for Workgroups Companion
The Cobb Group's Windows for Workgroups Companion

From the bestselling authors of Windows 3.1 Companion comes WINDOWS FOR WORKGROUPS COMPANION--the first comprehensive guide to the networking version of the Microsoft Windows 3.1 operating system.

With their trademark clarity and easy-to-read style, author Russell Borland and the Cobb Group's Lon Lorenz and R. Michael O'Mara deliver page after page of clear instruction and practical examples in this up-to-date tutorial and user's guide from Microsoft Press. It's the ideal documentation solution for purchasers of new PCs with Windows for Workgroups preinstalled and for users making the switch from Windows 3.1. Sharing and updating data within a department or workgroup becomes second nature as readers learn how to:

* Communicate and share data on a network--with or without a file server

* Exchange messages and information among workgroup members with a click of a mouse

* Manage connections between computers, display directory listings, and perform essential file operations with the File Manager

* Control printer sharing and output with the Print Manager

* Communicate and send documents to others in the workgroup with Mail

* Schedule meetings, appointments, and project milestones using Schedule+

* View and control connections with Net Watcher

* Use Object Linking and Embedding (OLE) to share information with workgroup members and have the information updated automatically

* Customize workspace for optimum performance according to hardware needs and personal preference

Detailed instructions and hundreds of illustrations enhance the clear explanations of each feature. Appendixes include a detailed guide to installing Windows for Workgroups, and a glossary provides a quick reference to workgroup terminology. A comprehensive index leads readers quickly to information on any topic in the book.

The Cobb Group, a leader in computer training and support, is well known for its bestselling, high quality computer books and for its series of critically acclaimed newsletters that cover popular software.

Russell Borland has been a technical writer for Microsoft Corporation for 12 years and is an authority on Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Word for Windows. His Windows 3.1 Companion, Getting Started with Windows 3.1, Microsoft Word for Windows 2.0 Macros, and Running Word for Windows are industry bestsellers.

Microsoft Press is the book division of Microsoft Corporation and the leading publisher of quality computer books about Microsoft products. More than 10 million computer users of all skill levels rely on a complete line of Microsoft Press books to make learning and using software easier. Titles ranging from streamlined tutorials for first-time computer users to technical references for professional programmers are distributed to book and software retailers worldwide. Consumers in the United States can also order directly from the publisher at 1-800-MSPRESS.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ "MST") is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers. The company offers a wide range of products and services for business and personal use, each designed with the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take advantage of the full power of personal computing every day.

Microsoft Press, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA 98052-6399

206-882-8080


Inside Windows NT
Microsoft Publishes First In-Depth Look at Windows NT

New Book from Microsoft Press Documents Rich and Powerful Core of the Next Generation Microsoft- Windows High-End Operating System

Redmond, WA--November 4, 1992--Microsoft Press--the book publishing division of Microsoft Corporation--today announced publication of INSIDE WINDOWS NT' the inside story behind the design, philosophy, and architecture of Microsoft's next generation Windows' operating system.

Written by Helen Custer--a member of the Windows NT development team--INSIDE WINDOWS NT is the ideal way for application developers and MIS managers to preview this powerful new technology. Readers are treated to a guided tour of Microsoft's highly portable, 32-bit operating system. Custer carefully tracks the building of Windows NT from the ground up while capturing the essence of its design. The result is an authoritative, in-depth discussion with the developers who created Windows NT that will appeal to a broad range of computer professionals.

"This book is the next step in Microsoft's strategic plan to place valuable Windows NT information into the hands of developers and those responsible for making decisions about how to proceed into the future of personal computing," said Dwayne Walker, Windows NT group business manager at Microsoft. "INSIDE WINDOWS NT is a highly accessible look at a revolutionary operating system that brings once-exotic concepts such as micro-kernel architecture, object-based security, built-in networking, and client-server subsystems into mainstream computing."

After a foreword by Windows NT chief architect David N. Cutler, INSIDE WINDOWS NT begins with a description of the operating system and a discussion of the development team's design goals. The author provides an overview of the architectural model on which Windows NT is based and then covers, in technical detail, topics such as:

Client-Server Protected Subsystems The source of Windows NT's ability to simultaneously run MS-DOS, 16-bit Windows, POSIX, and OS/2 programs

The Windows NT Kernel--Its kernel objects, interrupt and exception handling, thread scheduling and dispatch, and multiprocessor synchronization

Virtual Memory Manager--The implementation of Windows NT's 32-bit linear addressing scheme, versatile paging software, and memory-mapped files, as well as its interface to the kernel the cache manager, and the process structure

Object Management--The naming and sharing of system resources

Process and Threads Process and thread objects, implementation, services and features, and interprocess communication

I/O and File Systems--I/O objects, I/O processing, and installable file systems

A glossary of terms and acronyms as well as a complete bibliography is included. A comprehensive index helps readers quickly locate information on any topic in the book.

Helen Custer has written for C User's Journal, Windows/DOS Developer's Journal, and Microsoft Systems Journal. She is a member of the Windows NT development team and has been with Microsoft for 3 years.

Microsoft Press is the book division of Microsoft Corporation and the leading publisher of quality computer books about Microsoft products. More than 10 million users of all skill levels rely on a complete line of Microsoft Press books to make learning and using software easier. Tides ranging from streamlined tutorials for first-time computer users to technical references for professional programmers are distributed to book and software retailers worldwide. Consumers in the United States can also order directly from the publisher at 1-800 MSPRESS.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft, (NASDAQ "MSFT') is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers. The company offers a wide range of products and services for business and personal use, each designed with the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take advantage of the full power of personal computing every day.

Microsoft Press, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA 98052-6399

206-882-8080


Microsoft Money 2.0, Official Swr Companion
Microsoft Money 2.0

The Official Software Companion

MICROSOFT MONEY 2.0 software companion--the example-packed guide to the newest version of Microsoft's financial management software for Windows--is now available from Microsoft Press.

Author Stephen L. Nelson shows readers how to automate and organize home and small business finances--from balancing a checkbook to tackling advanced accounting procedures. His easy-to-follow instructions for working with Microsoft Windows and tips on personal and small-business finance help readers set up and use Microsoft Money to fit their financial management style. Topics for individuals, investors, and small-business owners include:

* Transforming a checkbook into a powerful financial

  management tool

* Creating pie, bar, or line charts for a graphic view

  of personal finances

* Tracking income and expenses and preparing budgets

* Monitoring bank accounts, credit cards, and mortgages

* Calculating loan payments and balances, investment returns,

  and interest rates using the new Loan Calculator

* Tracking and reconciling bank accounts

* Planning and preparing income tax returns

* Importing data from Quicken files and exporting data to

  tax preparation programs

* Managing accounts receivable, inventory, and fixed assets

* Preparing payroll checks and payroll tax returns

* Converting currency for business or travel

Plus, MICROSOFT MONEY 2.0 readers receive a special offer on Steve Nelson's Personal Financial Calculator. This handy Windows-based software figures 19 different personal financial calculations -- from how much interest can be saved with an extra $25 a month in mortgage payments to the value of an Individual Retirement Account or 401(K) Plan at retirement. Details are in the back of the book.

Stephen L. Nelson is a certified public accountant and a former senior consultant with Arthur Andersen & Co. He is the author of several books about business applications software, including Quicken, Lotus 1-2-3, and Microsoft Excel. His articles have appeared in PC/Computing, PC Magazine, Home Office Computing and Macworld magazines.

Other books in the Official Software Companion Series from Microsoft Press include Microsoft Publisher, by Luisa Simone and Microsoft Works for Windows, by JoAnne Woodcock.

Microsoft Press is the book division of Microsoft Corporation and the leading publisher of quality computer books about Microsoft products. More than 10 million users of all skill levels rely on a complete line of Microsoft Press books to make learning and using software easier. Tides ranging from streamlined tutorials for first-time computer users to technical references for professional programmers are distributed to book and software retailers worldwide. Consumers in the United States can also order directly from the publisher at 1-800 MSPRESS.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft, (NASDAQ "MSFT') is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers. The company offers a wide range of products and services for business and personal use, each designed with the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take advantage of the full power of personal computing every day.

Microsoft Press, One Microsoft Way, Redmond, WA 98052-6399

206-882-8080


NEC Intros New Image 486/66i Systems
NEC INTRODUCES NEW IMAGE 486/66i SYSTEM BASED ON INTEL i486DX2 MICROPROCESSOR NEC

Boxborough, Mass., December 8, 1992--Expanding its successful Image Series of desktop computers, NEC Technologies today introduced the Image 466/66i, the most powerful Image system to date. An ideal workstation for Windows, the Image 466/66i delivers superior graphics performance and fast information display thanks to ImageVideo technology, NEC's built-in local bus video technology.

Based on the Intel i486DX2 microprocessor running at 66MHz internally and 33MHz externally, the Image 486/66i brings NEC's enhancing modular CPU architecture to the i486DX2 class of desktop computers. This small footprint, powerful performance Image system was especially designed for the corporate desktop user requiring high performance and speed within the Windows environment.

As an Image system, the PowerMate 486/66i features ImageVideo-- NEC's first-to-market implementation of local bus video technology. ImageVideo technology empowers users with improved graphics performance-- up to 400% faster information display than standard VGA--without absorbing the cost of an additional graphics co-processor board.

The Image 486/66i also includes NEC's exclusive ImageSync technology, which enables the system to sense when it is connected to one of NEC's MultiSync FG monitors and automatically adjust to the highest possible refresh rate of that monitor for clearer, flicker-free information display. The combination of ImageSync technology with 1MB of video memory supporting high resolution 1024 x 768 x 256 colors offers users full screen display, clear and flicker-free images, sharp text and graphics, and superb clarity with a large palette of colors to choose from.

"The Image 466/66i exemplifies our commitment to the five design goals from the Image line, Integration, Modularity, Affordability, Graphics and Expandability bringing new speed and performance to the business user," said Mike Everett, NEC's desktop marketing manager. "In addition, the system ships with 4MB RAM (upgradable to 36MB), four 8/16-bit ISA expansion slots, four storage device drive bays and 128K FLASH ROM."

Distribution and Pricing

The Image 486/66i comes with a limited one year parts and labor warranty and is available immediately through NEC's extensive nationwide network of authorized resellers. Although actual retail prices may vary, the Image 486/66i is expected to sell at, or near, the following prices:

1.44MB diskette drive, no hard drive         $2,194

1.44MB diskette drive, 120MB IDE hard drive   2,501

1.44MB diskette drive, 240MB IDE hard drive   2,677

NEC Technologies, Inc. is a leading supplier of computers and peripherals for the North American market. Product lines include award-winning ProSpeed laptop computers, UltraLite notebook computers, MultiSync FG monitors, Silentwriter and Colormate printers, PowerMate Image and Express systems products, and InterSect CD-ROM hardware. NEC Technologies, Inc. is a subsidiary of NEC Corporation.

NEC Technologies

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719-2298

508-264-8000


NEC Expands System Family of Desktop Computers
NEC TECHNOLOGIES. INC. EXPANDS SYSTEM FAMILY OF DESKTOP COMPUTERS WITH i486DX2/66 SYSTEM

Boxborough, Mass., December 8, 1992--Offering users greater variety in its popular Ready family of low cost, high performance personal computers, NEC Technologies, Inc. today introduced the Ready 466 system, The Ready 466 system is the highest performing Ready system available to date and adds even greater depth to the Ready line, which includes the Ready 425 and Ready 433 systems.

Based on the Intel i486DX2 microprocessor running at 66MHz internally and 33MHz externally, the Ready 466 enables small and home business users to run demanding, graphics-intensive applications in the Windows environment. The powerful Ready 466 system comes with 8MB of RAM (expandable to 64MB), an OverDrive socket and a 240MB IDE hard disk drive (HDD). Shipped standard with the Ready 466 system is NEC's ReadyRemote Service, a unique on-line customer support facility, offered free-of-charge to Ready customers.

For outstanding graphics performance, the Ready 466 offers no wait-state video and 16 million colors (24-bit True Color). The Ready 466 system also comes complete with three ISA expansion slots, and accommodates industry standard SIMMS for easy expansion and inexpensive memory upgrades.

"NEC created the Ready family of personal computers to give customers what they need: An affordable system that is powerful enough to handle home and small business applications, but still easy to use," explained Denny Lane, director of Desktop Marketing at NEC Technologies. "The Ready 466 system expands the performance capabilities of the line even further, giving users an even greater price/performance value to handle even the most demanding applications."

Easy Installation

The Ready 466 system holds true to the Ready "plug and work" philosophy, enabling users to start working as soon as they take their systems out of the box--with no time-consuming set-up procedures. To help users get the most out of their Ready systems, NEC has pre-loaded a wide array of valuable software on Ready Ready system, including small business templates, on-line information service, anti-virus and integrated business application software. All Ready systems are also equipped with an integrated data/fax modem and fax software that gives users the ability to fax from within applications.

To ensure that Ready systems are easy to use for even the most novice PC users, all systems include an easy-to-follow setup video, a "Getting Started" on-line tutorial, NEC Desktop by Peter Norton--which makes Windows even easier to use, and NEC's Ready Remote service.

Service and Support: NEC's ReadyRemote Service

In addition to a one-year, on-site limited warranty and unlimited use of a toll-free Ready support telephone hotline, NEC also offers ReadyRemote service, a unique remote assistance program through which NEC support technicians trouble shoot and problem-solve using the modem included with each Ready system.

If a user's question cannot be quickly answered via a phone call, the user simply inserts the ReadyRemote support disk and re-starts the system. An NEC Customer Support technician can then dial into the user's system, view the user's screen, take control of the system and solve the problem.

To ensure the highest level of system security, the user has complete control over access to the system. NEC can only dial into the system when the emergency diskette is issued. Once communication is terminated, it cannot be restored until the diskette is re-booted by the customer.

Outstanding Graphics Performance

Like the Ready 425 and Ready 433 systems, the Ready 466 system offers outstanding graphics capability, including No Wait-State Video, which provides faster throughout and improved Windows performance. The Ready 466 system supports dynamic 24-bit true color applications in 640 x 480 resolution with 16.7 million colors.

A 14-inch, .28 dot pitch, 1024 x 768 non-interleaved Ready Monitor is available for all Ready systems.

All the Software A Small Business Needs

In addition to Microsoft Windows 3.1 and MS-DOS 5.0. all Ready systems ship with an extensive array of easy to use application software, including NEC Desktop by Peter Norton, which simplifies Windows, and Norton AntiVirus. Also included is Prodigy, an on-line information service; PFS:WindowWorks, an extensive program complete with word processor, spreadsheet, database, graphics and label making applications as well as 25 customized NEC small business templates to save time and add professionalism to documents; and two free months of electronic checking with Quicken, the leading small business accounting package.

Pricing and Distribution

The Ready 466 system is available immediately from NEC's extensive nationwide network of resellers, and selected mass merchants. Although actual retail prices may vary, the Ready 466 system is expected to sell at less than $2,799. NEC Technologies. Inc.

NEC Technologies, Inc. is a leading supplier of computers and peripherals for the North American market. Product lines include award-winning ProSpeed laptop computers, UltraLite notebook computers, MultiSync FG monitors, Silentwriter and Colormate printers, PowerMate Image and Express systems products, and InterSect CD-ROM hardware. NEC Technologies, Inc. is a subsidiary of NEC Corporation.

NEC Technologies

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719-2298

508-264-8000


NEC Intros PowerMate Series Economical Desktops
NEC TECHNOLOGIES. INC. INTRODUCES THE POWERMATE SERIES OF ECONOMICAL DESKTOP SYSTEMS FOR THE CORPORATE COMPUTING ENVIRONMENT

Boxborough, Mass., December 8, 1992--Continuing its efforts to develop desktop computer systems for all facets of a business enterprise, NEC Technologies, Inc. today introduced the PowerMate Series--PowerMate 325, PowerMate 425, and PowerMate 433--of economical general business PCs.

Designed as the ideal office automation platform for stand-alone and networked computing environments, the PowerMate Series offers users an economical PC solution for running applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, and electronic mail.

"We've developed the PowerMate Series to serve the general business user and complement advanced business PC systems, such as NEC's Image Series of professional workstations for Windows, found throughout a business enterprise," said Denny Lane, NEC's director of desktop marketing. "Unlike other low-cost PCs available in the marketplace, the PowerMate Series offers NEC quality at an incredible value."

Outstanding PowerMate Features Provide an Advantage

To differentiate the PowerMate Series from the several competing products that have recently flooded the marketplace, NEC has implemented a series of advanced features heretofore unavailable in low-cost PCs.

These features include "No Wait-State Video," which provides fast performance for graphics intensive applications, allowing Windows-based applications to run at optimal speed. Unlike competitive systems that use three or more clocks per ISA transaction, the NEC PowerMate Series has a fast no wait-state video subsystem that uses only two clock cycles per transaction, resulting in a 33% performance over video controllers. Additional features include:

** 24-bit True Color--Displays nearly 16.8 million colors, on the PowerMate 425 and 433, enabling truly realistic color reproduction.

** Intel OverDrive Ready System Capability--Provides an upgrade path for users to double the internal processor speed, on the PowerMate 425 and 433, for easy, cost-effective upgrades to adapt to changing computing needs.

** Perfect Touch Mechanical Keyboard--A substantive, high-quality keyboard with the "touch and feel" of a traditional typewriter.

"With features such as No Wait-State Video and 24-bit True Color, the PowerMate Series attains an enviable position on the price/performance curve in comparison to other products, namely Compaq ProLine, Dell Dimension, and IBM ValuePoint," added Lane.

Based on Intel's i386SX microprocessor running at 25MHz, the PowerMate 325 ships with 2MB RAM, expandable to 20MB via six SIMM sockets on the system board.

The PowerMate 425 and 433 are based on Intel's i486SX and i486DX microprocessors, running respectively at 25MHz and 33MHz. Both models ship with 4MB RAM, expandable to 64MB via four SIMM sockets on the motherboard.

All PowerMate systems offer 1MB video memory, three expansion slots, three device bays, a 1.44MB diskette drive, pre-loaded MS-DOS 5.0 and Microsoft Windows 3.1, an NEC mouse, and high capability IDE hard drive options in an attractive small-footprint chassis. For easy service and upgrade activities, a quarter-turn latch allows effortless access into the system chassis.

Economical PCs Without Compromising Quality and Functionality

"It has been a perception in the marketplace that vendors who have recently brought value oriented PCs to market have compromised various features and functions to achieve a low price point. In contrast to these vendors, NEC carefully designed and manufactured the PowerMate Series to offer superior value, while not sacrificing quality or functionality," commented Lane.

To ensure that quality and functionality were not sacrificed, NEC utilized the following design and manufacturing techniques with the PowerMate Series:

** Complete development and manufacture of all PowerMate Series systems in the United States, at NEC's Massachusetts facilities.

** Design and incorporation of universal motherboards that can accept a wide range of processors.

** Extensive network and compatibility testing at NEC's laboratory, one of the largest in the industry.

** Use of highly integrated chip sets (ASICs) with four layer motherboards to reduce component counts, increase reliability, and maintain low production costs.

NEC PC Product Families

With today's introduction, the PowerMate Series becomes the latest NEC PC product family, each positioned to meet the needs of different types of users. They include the Ready family of desktop systems for the small office/home office (SOHO) user, the Image Series of professional Windows workstations for advanced corporate users, and the Express line of powerful, EISA-based desktop and tower client/server systems for mission critical applications.

Pricing, Distribution and Service Information

The NEC PowerMate Series systems are available immediately from NEC's extensive nationwide network of authorized resellers. Although actual prices may vary, it is estimated that the PowerMate Series will sell at, or near, the following prices:

PowerMate 325   w/1.44MB 3.5" diskette drive & 120MB HDD   $1,037

PowerMate 425   w/1.44MB 3.5" diskette drive & 120MB HDD   $1,293

PowerMate 433   w/1.44MB 3.5" diskette drive & 120MB HDD   $1,707

NEC Technologies, Inc. is a leading supplier of computers and peripherals for the North American market. Product lines include award-winning ProSpeed laptop computers, UltraLite notebook computers, MultiSync FG monitors, Silentwriter and Colormate printers, PowerMate Image and Express systems products, and InterSect CD-ROM hardware. NEC Technologies, Inc. is a subsidiary of NEC Corporation.

NEC Technologies

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719-2298

508-264-8000


OBJECTIVE SOFTWARE SHIPS SPREADBASE 1.0

First Category-Based Modeling Tool Now Available On The Macintosh

PALO ALTO, CA, DECEMBER 7,1992 -- Objective Software, Inc. today announced that it has begun shipping SpreadBase software, the first category-based modeling tool, to more than 175 customers. SpreadBase delivers new capabilities to the desktop PC user, such as the ability to create and maintain dynamic business models that respond instantly to change. Now available on the Apple Macintosh, SpreadBase is priced at $695.

SpreadBase was developed to meet the needs of business analysts for tools that can deal more effectively with fast-paced change in today's business environment. Desktop business analysts -- CFOs, product managers, sales managers, forecast analysts, manufacturing planners, customer service supervisors, etc. -- are faced with a variety of ever-changing scenarios requiring structural changes in business operations, including:

* the addition or deletion of products and product lines;

* re-segmenting a customer base;

* re-districting sales territories;

* opening up -- or closing down -- production facilities.

When using spreadsheets, business analysts are forced to manually relocate and readjust text and numeric data and formulas as business information changes. SpreadBase, the result of more than three years of research and development, utilizes category-based modeling to permit changes to the data -- or the way the data is viewed -- without any of the tedious row-and-column hand editing and relinking associated with similar changes within existing spreadsheets.

"SpreadBase redefines the way analysts deal with business modeling problems," explains Richard Melmon, president and CEO of Objective Software. "Our customers are grappling with constantly evolving business environments. They need the freedom to think about how their business operates, how they can remain competitive, and how they can get the most power out of their business data. By utilizing the category-based modeling of SpreadBase, they can rise above the details, get past the drudgery of hand-editing and macro writing, and into decisions -- and actions - of substance."

"Quite simply, SpreadBase will make your life easier," states Mike Kotwica, manager of manufacturing systems for Motorola. "When we're dealing with production planning of the many different product packages we offer, we just cannot afford redundancy in our business modeling efforts if we are to stay competitive. SpreadBase, which allows me to manipulate data instantly and then present it to upper management, enables me to address a variety of 'what if' situations much more efficiently. Rather than spending hours on rote cell-and-number relocations, I can be providing creative tools for my company to not just survive, but to succeed and grow."

"SpreadBase goes far beyond the capabilities of today's extended spreadsheets," agrees Mark Schindel, manager of customer service automated budget systems for Southern California Edison, a purchaser of SpreadBase. "We have a very large operation, a heavy volume of customers, and we need to know that at every level we are executing business decisions as quickly and intelligently as possible. With SpreadBase, we are able to do budgeting, and then make rapid changes midstream.

Not only do we get many distinctly useful views of our data, we are able to direct and use that data in entirely new ways."

Category-Based Modeling

In a category-based modeling tool, data and related information -- formulas,. formats, and rollups - are referenced logically by category rather than physically by cell location. With SpreadBase, models are built by entering data into the SpreadBase matrix view or importing records from a database management system. As data items are entered, SpreadBase automatically groups items with common characteristics into categories. For example, it creates a category for "car" when you enter the car type names Taurus, Cougar, and Corvette. Add Mustang, and SpreadBase correctly considers it another member of the car category, and treats it accordingly. Because SpreadBase allows models to be defined logically, changes to data and formulas are applied to all category-based views and summaries automatically.

Category-based modeling is possible because SpreadBase is built on top of an internal relational database. Data entered into SpreadBase cells has a one-to-one correspondence with an underlying data record. This architecture, unique to SpreadBase, provides meaningful relationships between items -- ensuring data consistency across multiple views, and freeing the user from having to manually relocate data as items are reorganized. Because this relationship is inherent to SpreadBase's architecture, the program provides a powerful, extensible modeling tool that can smoothly handle new information.

SpreadBase offers an integrated business modeling environment. Features include a Workspace Module for creating and accessing dynamic business models through matrix, tabular, and graph views; a Spreadsheet Module for converting data and formulas from existing spreadsheet files; and a Report Publishing Module which integrates SpreadBase views with text and graphic elements to create dynamic multi-page reports. Over 150 math, financial, statistical, date-time, and other functions are available to SpreadBase users.

Configuration, Pricing, and Availability

SpreadBase requires a 32-bit architecture and supports Macintosh II series, Macintosh Quadra series, SE/30, or Apple PowerBook 170 personal computers (and above) running Apple system software 6.07 or later. A Motorola 68881 or 68882 math co-processor is required. SpreadBase for Macintosh has a list price of $695. Volume discounts are available to large corporate buyers.

SpreadBase for Windows is currently in development and will debut in 1993.

Objective Software

Objective Software was founded in 1989 by Richard Melmon, Stanley Roach, Mike Korns, and Kyle Mashima. Together, they have built a team led by industry veterans from Apple Computer, Claris, VisiCorp, Electronic Arts, ASK/Ingres, and Procter & Gamble. The company has raised more than $10 million in venture capital from a blue chip list of investors, including: J.H. Whitney & Co.; Oak Investment Partners; Weiss, Peck, & Greer Venture Partners; CAPFORM; Draper Associates; Apex Investment Partners; and Milbank-Wilson-Winthrop.

Based in Palo Alto, California, the company has sales offices in Nanuet, New York; Cincinnati, Ohio; Newport Beach, California; and Palo Alto, California.

ObjectiveSoftware, 248 Homer Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94301

415-324-3333;  fax: 415-324-3391


CFC Replacement Database Environmental Sources
CFC REPLACEMENT DATABASE

The New 1993 CFC REPLACEMENT SOLUTIONS Database includes the complete OSHA, CLEAN WATER, UST and RCRA Regulations. In addition, a comprehensive Environmental Sources Guide compliments the extensive SOLUTIONS FEATURES. The CFC SOLUTIONS Database is THE "HOW-TO" source for solving Industrial CFC Replacement Problems.

Waste Management, Regulatory Compliance, CFC Substitution, Waste Reduction/Recycling, Water Minimization/Reuse, Remediation, Cost Reduction and more are covered in-depth in the SIMPLE STRAIGHTFORWARD approach.

The User simply identifies the specific CFC problem and the SOLUTIONS Database immediately identifies the specific solution along with step-by-step instructions.

The CFC SOLUTIONS Database also provides the opportunity to be an integral part of the world-wide Network of Environmental Professionals. The CFC SOLUTIONS Electronic Bulletin Board maintains employment opportunities, free download software, a Problem/Solution forum along with numerous additional features including Secrets and personal messaging.

SOLUTIONS Software Corporation in the world's leading Information Technology organization serving the needs of Environmental Professionals and Industrial Generators.

FREE Information and Demo Disks are available.

SOLUTIONS Software, 1795 Turtle Hill Rd, Enterprise, FL 32725

(407) 321-7912;   FAX: (407) 323-4898

BBS: (407) 321-6119   [8-N-1]


INSTATREND Real-Time Data Acquisition Software
Data Acquisition Does Control

INSTATREND Real-time data acquisition software can now perform PID control tasks, as well as logging data to disk.

INSTATREND runs on any PC platform, from an XT to a 486. It was originally developed for the Dianachart ACQUISITOR series of Data Acquisition systems, and is now available with drivers for many other types of hardware, from plug-in boards to Serial Transmitters.

All PID loop parameters are set up in a simple easy to use menu. Many PID loops run simultaneously, with either 4-20 mA analog output or time proportioning control on binary outputs. Special features are included for ensuring minimum OFF times for compressor cooling systems.

Manual operation is supported, and user-specified output asserted in case of measurement error such as a broken thermocouple.

Multiple Ramp/Soak sequences can be programmed, with assured soak features.

Dianachart, 101 Round Hill Dr, Rockaway, NJ 07866

201-625-2299;  fax: 201-625-2449


Apple PowerBook Price Corrections
Apple just sent a letter indicating that there was a change that occured after the press kit for the October 19th product introduction was mailed....

The U.S. suggested retail price of the two PowerBook 180 configurations were changed. These prices were included in the releases titled -- Apple Rolls Our More Powerful, Versatile PowerBook Computers -- and -- Apple Strengthens Portable and Mid-Range Macintosh Lines -- and a pricing summary in the kit. The final prices are as follows:

                       Press Kit    Final Price

PowerBook 180 4/80       $3869         $4109

PowerBook 180 4/120       4229          4469

Apple appologizes for any inconvenience this may have caused.

Apple Computer Inc, 20525 Mariana Ave, Cupertino, CA 95014

408-996-1010


Contractor's Dream V5.0 Job Estimating Software
Contractor's Dream

NEW! Version 5.0

For IBM PC's and compatibles with 640K and a Hard Drive

We at Workhorses, Inc. listened to your suggestions, advice, comments and constructive criticism and went to work. We kept the features you liked, improved on over 30 others and we are confident you'll love our new enhancements.

Contractor's Dream is getting better and better! If you tried our program in the past and were not entirely satisfied, you will be amazed at what the new Version 5.0 does for you now.

True estimating software with time-saving features:

No more late night headaches while figuring out your estimates. Quick last minute adjustments and permanent records. The professional appearance on your bids will give you a solid edge over your competition.

New Features:

- mouse driven

- expanded material database

- databases: labor, sub-contractor, equipment and expenses, misc.

- to-do list for CSI or NAHB

- improved help menus

- electrical/plumbing and heating

  Heat Module (available in February'93)

- assemblies: concrete, floor, wall, doors/windows/trim, ceiling,

  roof, deck and miscellaneous

- "What if" on dimensioning

- Additional accounting modules for System Manager, General

  Ledger, Job Costing, Accounts Payable and Receivable, Payroll

- Additional estimate layout according to C.S.I. format

Advantages over competition:

- FAST!

- change on the fly

- insert materials on the fly

- readable descriptions, no codes involved

- segmented database

- not a spreadsheet

- quick calculation

- material take-offs and pricing in a matter of seconds

- instant changes on recalculations

- Easy to learn, ties in with Contractor's Dream

Contractor's Dream Version 5.0:

- very affordable, the price of a nail gun

- calculates exact material take-offs

- provides you with a cutting list on rafters, staircases,

  windows/doors, making the rafter book obsolete

- any shape of construction: circles, triangles, rectangles,

  hexagons, octagons, etc.

- modular, for add-on features

- sort and select by task

- improved graphic screens

- easy output to Lotus file or ASCII file

- 30 minute tutorial tape

- free technical support (800 number)

- written by a carpenter/contractor

- select from client estimate, contractor estimate, edit bid

  and material list

A New Team

Business Works Integrated Accounting System and Contractor's Dream

If you are like most small business owners, you'd rather spend time making money than counting it. We have done our homework and spent countless hours evaluating numerous accounting packages to tie in with Contractor's Dream in order to ease the burden of your bookkeeping so you can get on with business. Contractor's Dream and BusinessWorks are ideal programs for the builder, remodeler, general contractor and sub-contractors. BusinessWorks is an accounting program for business owners who aren't CPA's or computer experts. BusinessWorks is, according to PCWorld, a budget wise accounting package and offers a full range of budget tracking and Job Costing reporting options.

** Provides full financial and management reports, including: Balance Sheets, Trail Balance Reports, Income Statement and Cash Flow Statements.

** Modules for System Manager, General Ledger, Job Costing, Payroll, Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable.

With these packages you will spend less time doing your books and estimating. Have more time managing your business through a concise and accurate record keeping system.

Updates for Contractor's Dream are $199 each, plus $5 shipping and handling.

Workhorses Inc, 805 Fourteenth St, Golden, CO 80401

800-777-2477;  fax: 303-279-0411


Bruno Blenheim 1993 Computer Trade Show Schedule
BRUNO BLENHEIM INC.

1993 COMPUTER TRADE SHOW SCHEDULE

January 12 - 14, 1993. NetWorld 93 Boston (Fifth Annual);   John B. Hynes Convention Center; Boston, Massachusetts.

Description: NetWorld 93 Boston is an international trade show and conference focusing on computer networking and connectivity. NetWorld serves the purchasing, educational and marketing needs of its audience, including trade resellers, corporate networking and communications managers, MIS/DP directors, systems analysts, IS professionals and consultants. NetWorld 93 Boston will feature more than 365 exhibitors, including all the major networking vendors, showcasing products and services for local area networks (LANs), WANs, connectivity and interoperability. The NetWorld seminar series will offer more than 80 sessions and nine tutorials -- intensive all-day classes on January 1 1.

June 29 - July 1, 1993. Eleventh Annual PC EXPO in New York; Jacob K. Javits Convention Center; New York, New York.

Description: PC EXPO in New York is the premier international computer show for corporate volume buyers and trade resellers. In response to last year's tremendous turnout, show organizers expect more than 800 exhibitors and a show floor spanning three levels of the Javits Center. PC EXPO will encompass the latest computer hardware and software products, including a special Windows/PM Pavilion, showcasing graphical user interface (GUI) applications. PC EXPO will feature other products, such as portable and pen-based computing, multimedia and connectivity. The PC EXPO Seminar Series is the most comprehensive trade show educational program in the country with more than 70 sessions. PC EXPO will also offer eight in-depth tutorials covering the most current computer hardware, software, and management trends on June 28. PC EXPO in New York has been designated a Foreign Buyer Event by the U.S. Department of Commerce and will be actively promoted by 225 U.S. Embassies around the world.

September 21 - 23, 1993. UNIX EXPO (Tenth Annual); Jacob K. Javits Convention Center; New York, New York.

Description: UNIX EXPO, the leading show for Open Systems technology, reaches a milestone with its tenth annual trade show and conference program. More than 360 exhibitors will showcase all aspects of UNIX/Open Systems, including hardware, software, development tools and interoperability solutions to an audience including corporate endusers, resellers and systems integrators. The exposition and conference program will analyze current trends in the UNIX community, including the move toward Open Systems computing, multimedia, and the corporate world's increasing use of UNIX as a platform for achieving Open Systems.

October 5 - 7, 1993.  NetWorld 93 Dallas (Eighth Annual);   Dallas Convention Center; Dallas, Texas.

Description: The computer industry's premier international trade show and conference for computer networking and connectivity will feature more than 495 vendors. Exhibitors will represent a vast array of the technology spectrum including all the major networking vendors showcasing local area network (LAN) technologies, fax boards, communications, wireless LANs, file servers, cabling, support programs and services. For the second time, NetWorld Dallas will be participating in the Foreign Buyer Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Commerce. In response to this program, NetWorld Dallas will feature an International Business Center designed to unite U.S. exhibitors of networking products and services with foreign buyers.

October 19 - 21, 1993. Eighth Annual PC EXPO in Chicago;   McCormick Place; Chicago, Illinois.

Description: PC EXPO in Chicago is a uniquely focused trade show and conference program targeted to the needs of senior-level computer professionals from the Midwest. PC EXPO in Chicago will feature more than 250 exhibitors of computer hardware and software who will showcase the latest products and services, including portable computers, graphical user interface (GUI) applications, and LAN and multimedia technologies. The PC EXPO Seminar Series, renowned for its comprehensive conference sessions, will offer more than 30 seminars covering topics responsive to the issues and trends affecting Midwestern computer professionals.

Bruno Blenheim Inc

Fort Lee Executive Park, One Executive Dr, Fort Lee, NJ 07024

800-829-3976,  201-346-1400,  Fax: 201-346-1532


Trantor Low-Cost 16-bit SCSI Host Adapter Kits
Trantor Systems Introduces

High-Performance, Low-Cost 16-Bit SCSI Host Adapter Kits

COMDEX Fall'92, Las Vegas, NV -- November 16, 1992 -- Trantor Systems today announced its new line of 16-bit SCSI Host Adapters: the T160 and T160F for ISA-bus computers and the T260 for Micro Channel systems. All three boards were conceived in response to customer needs for low-priced, yet high-performance 16-bit SCSI interfaces.

The T160 and T160F are compatible with any 80286, 386 or 486 system, and will happily coexist with other MFM, RLL, ESDI, IDE or SCSI controllers already present in the system. Performance up to 3 MB/sec is possible on fast systems. The T160F includes all the features of the T160, and adds floppy disk support for both 3-1/2" and 5 1/4" high and low-density diskettes. Up to four floppy drives are supported simultaneously, depending on the computer's BIOS ability to support more than the standard two drives.

The T260 is the smallest Micro Channel SCSI host adapter available, and easily fits into even the IBM Model 70 Portable computer's short slot. On fast Micro Channel computers, performance up to 3.2 MB/sec is possible.

The new products are based on Trantor's new T101 SCSI controller ASIC. Designed in partnership with National Semiconductor, this highly integrated surface-mounted chip results in a very low parts count for high performance and high reliability at a low price. All three also include both internal and external SCSI connectors (the external connector is pin-compatible with those used on Apple's Macintosh computers, for easy cabling) as well as fused termination power and a BIOS ROM to support up to two SCSI drives without additional software driver support. System bootup is possible from SCSI device 0, 1 or 2.

The new Host Adapters, like all Trantor products shipped since December 1992, come complete with Trantor's new ASPI-compatible software bundle. SCSIworks!. With SCSIworks!, full support is provided for SCSI hard drives, CD-ROMs. magneto-optical drives, removable-cartridge drives. SCSI floppies and Tape Mate II tape backup. Trantor's Music Box audio control software for CD-ROMs is also included with SCSIworks!.

The T160 has a suggested retail price of US$149.00, the T160F is $179.00 and the T260 is $199.00. All three products are scheduled to begin shipping in December.

Trantor is the premier supplier of SCSI interface products for the CD-ROM industry and is a leader in the all-purpose SCSI interface market, supplying hardware and software products to the IBM-compatible, laptop/notebook and Apple Macintosh markets. The MiniSCSI, introduced at COMDEX in 1990, was the world's first parallel-to-SCSI adapter, and Trantor has expanded the line to now include 3 MiniSCSI models. Founded in 1982, Trantor's products are sold through distributors and dealers internationally under a variety of private labels as well as the Trantor brand name. The company is located in Fremont, California (Silicon Valley).

Trantor Systems, 5415 Randall Place, Fremont, CA 94538-3151

510-770-1400;   Fax 510-770-9910


Trantor MiniSCSI EPP Parallel-to-SCSI Adapter
Trantor Systems Introduces MiniSCSI EPP

Ultra-High-Performance Parallel-to-SCSI Host Adapter Allows Enhanced Parallel Ports to Run CD-ROMs and Other SCSI Devices at Bus Speeds

COMDEX Fall'92, Las Vegas, NV -- November 16, 1992 -- Trantor Systems today announced its new enhanced parallel-to-SCSI adapter, the model T358 MiniSCSI EPP. On display in the South Annex (formerly West Hall), Booth #7022, the product provides simple, quick and inexpensive connection of many different types of SCSI devices through a computer's Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP) without losing use of the printer.

The EPP technology was developed by Intel and a consortium of computer and peripheral manufacturers (including Trantor Systems) to emulate the traditional ISA expansion bus through the parallel port, providing comparable performance. The MiniSCSI EPP allows data transfer rates of up to 1 MB/sec, similar to a conventional 8-bit SCSI adapter.

The MiniSCSI EPP is compatible with EPP-compliant parallel ports as well as with conventional unidirectional and bidirectional ports. Parallel printer signals pass through with no performance degradation. There is no need to specify whether an EPP device is being connected, since transmission rates are automatically adjusted.

The MiniSCSI EPP, like all Trantor products shipped since December 1992, comes complete with Trantor's new ASPI-compatible software bundle, SCSIworks!. With SCSIworks!, full support is provided for SCSI hard drives, CD-ROMs, magneto-optical drives. removable-cartridge drives. SCSI floppies and Tape Mate II tape backup. Trantor's Music Box audio control software for CD-ROMs is also included with SCSIworks!

The MiniSCSI EPP has a suggested retail price of US$269.00 and is scheduled to begin shipping in December.

Trantor has been successfully selling the original MiniSCSI product for over two years. The MiniSCSI Plus was introduced in June 1992 and offers enhanced performance, an integral 3-foot cable and built-in SCSI termination. The MiniSCSI EPP external design is identical to the MiniSCSI Plus. The MiniSCSI product line is particularly attractive for notebooks and laptops which lack slots for a conventional SCSI interface board.

Trantor is the premier supplier of SCSI interface products for the CD-ROM industry and is a leader in the all-purpose SCSI interface market, supplying hardware and software products to the IBM-compatible, laptop/notebook and Apple Macintosh markets. Founded in 1982, Trantor's products are sold through distributors and dealers internationally under a variety of private labels as well as the Trantor brand name. The company is located in Fremont, California (Silicon Valley).

Trantor Systems, 5415 Randall Place, Fremont, CA 94538-3151

510-770-1400;   Fax 510-770-9910


The Night Before Christmas Talking Storybook
December 4, 1992

Holiday greetings from Knowledge Adventure!

The last twelve months have been tremendous ones for us. It was just last November that we shipped the first version of Knowledge Adventure. Since then we have introduced four additional Interactive Books--Isaac Asimov's Science Adventure, Sports Adventure, Space Adventure with Caltech's Tom McDonough and Astronaut Buzz Aldrin, and Dinosaur Adventure--and released a major upgrade to Knowledge Adventure. Our titles consistently appear among the top-ten selling educational software products, and we've been fortunate to have received numerous nominations, awards and "editor's choice" accolades from a variety of publications, including PC Magazine, PC/Computing, Compute, and Kids & Computers. We are tremendously grateful for the response we've received from the editorial community and users alike.

As part of our holiday promotional activities, we have produced a special Talking Storybook, "The Night Before Christmas." In it, actor Christopher Hewett (TV's Mr. Belvedere) reads the classic Clement C. Moore poem we all know so well. Children can follow along as he reads, watching words highlight and pages turn. They can even interrupt the story to click on elements in the illustrations, such as the chimney or Santa or one of the reindeer to hear their names pronounced. "Twas" (as we affectionately call it) is priced at $14.95 but is also being offered free with the purchase of any other Knowledge Adventure product. It should be a perfect "stocking stuffer" for the holidays.

Knowledge Adventure, 4502 Dyer St, La Crescenta, CA 91214

818-542-4200;  Fax: 818-542-4205


Physics Academic Software - Quantum Scattering
New Mac Software Highlights Correspondence Between Classical and Quantum Mechanics

Physics Academic Software Releases QUANTUM SCATTERING

December 4, 1992 -- QUANTUM SCATTERING examines the quantum-mechanical time evolution of a Gaussian wave packet interacting with a potential barrier or well in one dimension, underscoring the correspondence between classical and quantum behaviors.

Developed by Daniel Lacks, Harvard University, QUANTUM SCATTERING introduces students to the field of quantum dynamics and demonstrates concepts such as tunneling, resonance, wave packet spreading, and the principle of finite probability density in classically forbidden regions.

A wave packet is the quantum-mechanical description of a classical particle. The dynamics of a wave packet provide the clearest illustration of the relationship between classical and quantum mechanics. "Stationary state examples, which are common in traditional quantum mechanics courses, fail to show this correspondence," says Lacks. "QUANTUM SCATTERING makes this correspondence clear."

QUANTUM SCATTERING treats the motion of a particle interacting with a potential quantum mechanically and then compares this quantum description with the classical description. It displays the probability density and the corresponding trajectory of a classical particle to make the comparison more vivid. You can vary the physical parameters, set the width and height of the potential barrier or well, and choose the shape--rectangular, triangular, or sawtooth.

QUANTUM SCATTERING is appropriate for courses that discuss the physical interactions of atoms and molecules, such as molecular physics, physical chemistry, or quantum mechanics. It allows students to study more computationally difficult problems than can be studied analytically by demonstrating many of the concepts underlying quantum-mechanical phenomena.

Reviewers are enthusiastic about the program. "QUANTUM SCATTERING is a major improvement in learning over the old film loops," says David Winch, Kalamazoo College. "It helps students build intuition," says Perry Rice, Miami University. "It is a wonderful pedagogical tool." John Gastineau, Lawrence University, says, "QUANTUM SCATTERING animates the classic film loops of the '60s and in addition allows user adjustment. I will definitely use it in class."

QUANTUM SCATTERING is published and distributed by Physics Academic Software, which is a project of the American Institute of Physics in cooperation with the American Physical Society and the American Association of Physics Teachers as part of a continuing series of educational software from PAS.

QUANTUM SCATTERING operates on any Macintosh Plus computer or later with finder version 6.0 or higher and system software version 6.0 or higher. A printer is recommended.

QUANTUM SCATTERING may be purchased from Physics Academic Software for $24.95 plus $3.50 shipping and handling for the first package ($7.50 foreign) and $.75 for each additional package. Lab Packs, which include ten copies of the software and one User's Manual, are available for $99.95.

For a limited time, you can purchase the entire PAS collection, with or without Lab Packs, and save up to 33% off the regular price. Physics Academic Software offers a no-risk guarantee by providing a full refund for packages returned within 30 days.

PAS also offers a Standing Order Plan, which brings the latest in innovative physics courseware to your door, along with exceptional savings. When you join the Standing Order Plan, you will automatically receive each new PAS program, with or without Lab Packs, and save up to 33% off the list price.

Orders and requests for a free catalog of all Physics Academic Software titles should be directed to The Academic Software Library, Campus Box 8202, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-8202. By telephone, call (800) 955-TASL or (919) 515-7447; FAX (919) 515-2682.


STEPWAY All-in-One, One-for-All Promotion
STEPWAY Promotion Offers 'All-in-One, One-for-All' Software Package at A Discount

ROSWELL, Ga., -- STEPWAY, a new software package that includes a suite of 10 ready-to-use applications designed specifically for home computer users, is available for a limited time at a reduced price--just $79 plus shipping and handling direct from Step1 Systems. STEPWAY's regular retail price is $165. The STEPWAY promotion also extends to retail software dealers.

The International Press Association recently named STEPWAY the PC Software Product of the Year, calling it "the best software investment you may ever make." The STEPWAY system provides productivity, creativity and educational tools for novice or non-technical users including:

  * Word Processing     * Drawing

  * Calendar/Scheduler  * Recipe Organizer

  * Banners and Signs   * Cards and Invitations

  * Address Manager     * To-Do-Lists

  * Home Inventory      * Solitaire Games

"STEPWAY is ideal for people who've never used a computer before, but advanced users will find it valuable, too," said Susan MacCracken Jain, president of Step1 Systems. "We're offering this special promotion because we wanted to make it as affordable as possible this holiday season."

Step1 Systems Corp. was founded in 1991. Located in Roswell, Ga., the privately held company is principally woman-owned. To order the STEPWAY system, call 1-800-435-STEP. Or, for more information, write Step1 Systems Corp. at 74 Woodstock Road, Roswell, GA, 30075.


Kodak Filter Wheel for DCS 200 Camera
NEW KODAK FILTER WHEEL FOR DCS 200 CAMERA BRINGS 24-BIT COLOR TO STILL IMAGING APPLICATIONS

NEW YORK, N.Y., Dec. 4--The Kodak color filter wheel accessory announced today produces a full 24-bit color digital image for studio, catalog and desktop still imaging applications. The accessory enhances the performance of the monochrome Kodak professional DCS 200mi digital camera.

The color filter wheel produces, full 24-bit color images using a motor-driven red, green and blue filter wheel combined with supporting electronics. Software combines three sequential exposures electronically to produce the final full color image in as little as 30 seconds. The accessory operates with Nikon compatible lenses ranging from 18 mm to 135 mm. Users may select either tethered or stand alone operation modes.

In the tethered mode, the color filter wheel and DCS 200mi operate with a host Macintosh computer having 8 megabytes of RAM (Random Access Memory) running Adobe PhotoShop software. The camera's acquire module control panel operates both the camera and the color filter wheel automatically. A computer with an 80 megabytes internal drive stores up to sixteen 24-bit color images.

"The new color filter wheel used with the DCS 200mi camera provides an extremely cost effective tool for studio photographers who need accurate color images for catalog or product illustration," notes Jim Patton, general manager and vice-president of Kodak's Professional Imaging organization, U.S. and Canada Region.

For stand-alone use, the DCS 200mi camera shutter is manually operated three times, once for each primary color. The color wheel automatically rotates to the next filter after each exposure.

The DCS 200 digital camera uses a Kodak sensor providing 1.5 million pixels of resolution. It is built into a special back to fit the Nikon 8008S camera body. This combination provides rapid auto focus, exposure control, motorized advance and enormous lens flexibility.

The Kodak color filter wheel accessory measures 11.5 inches wide, by 11.5 inches high, by 3 inches deep and weighs approximately seven pounds.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State Street, Rochester, New York 14650-0519


Parents, Kids & Computers Creative Learning
PARENTS, KIDS & COMPUTERS INTEGRATES CREATIVE COMPUTER LEARNING WITH DOWN-HOME FAMILY FUN

NEW YORK, NY, Dec. 2, 1992 -- Today parents and children are meeting at the computer keyboard in record numbers. Kids love the computer's interactivity; parents like knowing their kids aren't wasting their time on TV or Nintendo. PARENTS, KIDS & COMPUTERS: AN ACTIVITY GUIDE FOR FAMILY PLAY AND LEARNING (November, $20.00, 390 pages), from Random House Electronic Publishing, leads the whole family into a sensational exploration of the electronic world. Experts Robin Raskin and Carol Ellison have combined their efforts to create a parent's sourcebook that will guide the whole family into the information age.

PARENTS, KIDS & COMPUTERS is unlike any other book on the market. Written from a parent's perspective, it provides innovative suggestions how to make computer time quality time. Parents can learn how to select the best hardware and software for their children, explore popular programs like Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? and Kid Pix, and discover how Windows, LOGO and Prodigy can be homework helpers. Raskin and Ellison encourage parents to take a hands-on approach to exploring their collection of hand-picked programs, and they furnish hundreds of ideas on how to extract maximum learning and fun from a wide variety of software.

"Robin Raskin and Carol Ellison have written the ultimate computer sourcebook for families," said Michael Mellin, Publisher, Random House Electronic Publishing. "Parents have long been searching for a collection of tools and activities to help their children find an enjoyable way to succeed with computers. PARENTS, KIDS & COMPUTERS is the ultimate resource. "

Beyond pure education, PARENTS, KIDS & COMPUTERS serves as a springboard for creative fun. "Connections" sections throughout the book outline in-home computer play ideas, such as a Carmen Sandiego Birthday Party-or a Prodigy-related International Lunch. Appendices also include up-to-date information on programs, vendors and CD-ROM offerings, providing the inside scoop on all the latest developments in childrens computing.

PARENTS, KIDS & COMPUTERS is divided into 17 chapters, including sections on "Finding the Best Buys," "Bringing Home Baby - The Perfect Setup for Your New PC" and "CD-ROM Software - The Wave of the Future is Here Now." The book is a trade paperback with screen shots and illustrations throughout.

Robin Raskin is executive editor of PC Magazine, wife of a computer programmer, and mother of three computer-wise children. Carol Ellison, formerly a senior editor at PC/Computing, is a freelance writer specializing in technology and education.

Other titles recently released by Random House Electronic Publishing include: Color Publishing on the Macintosh by Kim and Sunny Baker; The Macintosh Reader by Doug Clapp; Multimedia Toolkit by Russell Lipton; Hollywood Tour Guide by Joseph Fournier; DOS 5 by Alfred Glossbrenner; Van Wolverton's Guide to Windows 3.1 by Van Wolverton and Michael Bloom; Van Wolverton's Guide to DOS 5 by Van Wolverton and Steve Lambert; Using Novell Netware Lite by Ralph Roberts; Julian Block's Year-Round Tax Strategies for the $40,000-Plus Household by Julian Block; and the Winning Forms series by Jim Kinlan, Jack McGrath and Scott Tucker.

Random House Electronic Publishing is an imprint of Random House, Inc., wholly dedicated to publishing titles that serve the fast-growing field of computer users, from beginners to experts. Established in 1991, Random House Electronic Publishing brings the trusted reputation and resources of America's leading trade publisher to support the unique informational needs of computer users in the 90s. Random House Electronic Publishing books are designed to be the most informative, practical and readable guides to computers and computer software ever available, and can be purchased in bookstores, computer stores and superstores nationwide or by calling 1-800-726-0600.


Letter-Art 7.5 Signmaking Software Package
New Features for Letter-Art 7.5

Symbol Graphics, Corona California, announces the release of three new program capabilities for Letter-Art 7.5, the leading open architecture signmaking software package. This announcement follows the initial release of Version 7.5 last fall which introduced a long list of powerful features to Letter Art's rapidly increasing user base.

Letter-Art's most exciting new feature is a Braille capability for creating ADA signage. This translator allows users to create complete signs merging text, pictograms and Grade 2 Braille. Normal English text is entered in Letter-Art, the Braille font is selected, and the translation is automatic. Letter-Art is compatible with a variety of output devices including HPGL compatible engravers and PCL laser printers for creating polymer and positive masters.

Also on the new feature list is SGlCache, a plot spooler that allows designing in Letter-Art to continue while sending a job to a plotter or printer. You can Suspend, Resume, Clear, and Monitor the completion of output while still working in Letter-Art. SGlCache will control multiple devices simultaneously.

Symbol Graphics is pleased to announce its newest additions to the Letter-Art Font Library, Highway Gothic Series C and E modified. These widely used fonts meet all federal standards for highway signage and are available from Symbol Graphics for only $95 each.

Contact Symbol Graphics for a complete list of Version 7.5 features:

Symbol Graphics, 1047 W. 6th St, Corona, CA 91720

(909) 736-4040;   FAX:(909) 737-0652


C.ITOH PRINTERS AND LETTER ART JOIN FORCES

CIE America of Irvine, CA and Symbol Graphics of Corona, CA announce a new cooperative marketing program targeted to the sign making industry.

Symbol Graphics newest release of Letter-Art 7.5 supports CIE America printers including both new and previous models. This compatibility takes advantage of Letter-Art's high quality lettering and graphics capabilities and the speed, high resolution, and precision dot placement of C.Itoh printers to create a low cost solution for signage applications.

C.Itoh printers are equipped with a wide format carriage, a wide throat that adapts to thick forms and tag stock, and a straight through paper path with zero tear. Letter-Art can produce solid filled lettering and graphics of virtually any size with extremely high graphic quality. Its ability to interface with a variety of other design software and output large continuous length makes the combination with C.Itoh very exciting. Together these two products can create professional signs, banners, flyers and labels faster and at lower costs than previously available.

Letter-Art and C.Itoh printers meet the needs of a wide range of industries. Both companies expect increased sales of the new and unique application solutions for retail sales, education, warehousing, management information systems, hotels, hospitals, and convention centers.

Letter-Art

Symbol Graphics, 1047 W. 6th St, Corona, CA 91720

(909) 736-4040;   FAX:(909) 737-0652

C.Itoh Printers:

CIE America, 2515 McCabe Way, Irvine, CA 92713

(800) 877-1421 ext. 4494


Desaware SpyWorks-VB for Visual Basic
Desaware Announces SpyWorks-VB for Microsoft Visual Basic 2.0

San Jose, Calif. - December 11, 1992 -- Desaware today announced the availability of SpyWorks-VB version 1.0, a companion product to the Microsoft Visual Basic version 2.0 programming system. SpyWorks-VB brings advanced Windows based development techniques to Visual Basic programmers for the first time.

SpyWorks-VB allows any Visual Basic program to intercept the underlying Windows message stream for any Visual Basic form or control. This technique, known as subclassing, allows an application to detect events that are not normally supported by the language, thus significantly extending the power and flexibility of Visual Basic 2.0. It also allows the programmer to modify the behavior and characteristics of standard Visual Basic controls. This is accomplished from within Visual Basic, with no C or DLL programming required.

SpyWorks VB includes tools to provide efficient access to Windows-based Application Programming Interface (API) functions that are not normally accessible from Visual Basic. These include API functions that require callback function addresses, Windows hooks, Printer driver functions, and Visual Basic API functions.

SpyWorks-VB includes a set of debugging tools designed for the Visual Basic programmer who wishes to use the Windows API. These include tools to view both Windows messages and Visual Basic events as they occur, to detect API parameter errors, and to examine memory and Windows resource use.

SpyWorks VB is priced at $129.

Desaware is a developer of tools and utilities for the Microsoft Windows operating system and Microsoft Visual Basic.

Desaware, 5 Town & Country Village #790, San Jose, CA 95128

408-377-4770;  fax: 408-371-3530


Desaware CCF-Cursors V2.0 for Visual Basic
Desaware Announces CCF-Cursors Version 2.0 for Microsoft Visual Basic 2.0

San Jose, Calif. - December 11, 1992 -- Desaware today announced the availability of CCF-Cursors version 2.0, a companion product to the Microsoft Visual Basic version 2.0 programming system. CCF-Cursors lets programmers create and use custom cursors (also called MousePointers) in their Visual Basic applications.

CCF-Cursors version 2.0 contains all of the features of version 1.0, including the use of standard cursor files, the ability to convert any icon into a cursor, and the ccmouse.vbx control, which is able to detect mouse events (such as MouseDown, MouseUp, MouseMove and DblClick) for Visual Basic controls that do not normally support mouse events.

CCF-Cursors version 2.0 adds support for Visual Basic 2.0 Graphical Controls. It also includes the ability to create and use fully animated cursors that do not require custom programming. The ccMouse.vbx custom control has been extended to detect menu events for a form, allowing event support for status lines based on the current menu status. Compatibility with Desaware's Custom Control Factory has been enhanced as well.

In addition to supporting standard cursor files, cursors may be created from any icon using the ICON2CUR.EXE conversion program. This program and two other sample programs are provided with full Visual Basic source code. Over 50 sample cursors are provided including the cursors needed to create an animated hourglass.

CCF-Cursors is designed to fill two gaps in Microsoft Visual Basic 2.0: the lack of support for custom cursors and the inability to detect mouse events in many controls.

CCF-Cursors is priced at $35.

Desaware is a developer of tools and utilities for the Microsoft Windows operating system and Microsoft Visual Basic.

Desaware, 5 Town & Country Village #790, San Jose, CA 95128

408-377-4770;  fax: 408-371-3530


IconAuthor 5.0 for Windows Multimedia Authoring
AIMTECH CORPORATION ANNOUNCES ICONAUTHOR 5.0 FOR WINDOWS

NASHUA, N.H., December 7, 1992 -- AimTech Corporation today announced IconAuthor 5.0, a major upgrade to its interactive multimedia authoring software for Windows. The new version features a new Smart Object Editor, OLE support, enhanced DLL support, extensive digital video support, and a new graphical debugger.

IconAuthor is a full-featured authoring tool that allows professional multimedia developers to create advanced, interactive applications combining text, graphics, animation, full-motion analog and digital video, and audio. Its icon-based, visual programming environment allows the non-programmer to create applications for computer-based training, self-service terminals, performance support systems, simulations, and interactive business presentations. IconAuthor is the only full-featured multimedia authoring software available for Windows, Modular Windows, UNIX platforms running OSF/Motif, and VMS environments.

"IconAuthor 5.0 is a leap forward in authoring technology," said Usman Ismail, AimTech's president and CEO. "As computer-based training and multimedia have moved into mainstream computing, our customers have begun to develop a new generation of applications. We've worked closely with them to provide the most advanced, complete tool to meet their authoring needs."

IconAuthor 5.0 includes a new Smart Object Editor which replaces the current IconAuthor Smart Text editor. With the Smart Object Editor, users can easily create objects such as Windows buttons, list boxes, radio buttons, and check boxes that can be combined to create applications with a Windows user interface, in addition to text and graphic objects. Objects created in the Smart Object Editor remain "live" in IconAuthor 5.0, enabling users to create active areas in their application that can be manipulated simultaneously at run-time.

IconAuthor 5.0 supports ASCII and RTF (rich text format) files, allowing users to import text from popular word processors directly into the Smart Object Editor. In addition, IconAuthor text objects support PenWindows for user input.

IconAuthor 5.0 is an OLE (object linking and embedding) client which allows users to link and embed objects into any graphic display. OLE extends IconAuthor's interprocess communications and provides support for OLE sound and video implementations, such as Compaq's multimedia PC and Microsoft's Video for Windows.

Support for Intel's DVI and Indeo, Microsoft's Video for Windows, and Fluent's Fluency product family will provide IconAuthor 5.0 users with the most advanced support for all available digital video, locally or over a network. Expanded DLL (dynamic link library) capabilities which provide easy support for Windows-compliant DLLs; a new graphic debugger, IAScope, which allows users to visually walk through their application and trace problems.

IconAuthor 5.0 includes editors for creating graphics, text/objects, video, and animation; attendance at a four-day training course; and one year of technical support. Priced at $4,995, IconAuthor is available immediately direct from AimTech Corporation. Discounts are available for educators, course developers and resellers. Existing customers can receive an upgrade to IconAuthor 5.0 for $350 when purchased before March 1, or $500 when purchased after March 1.

IconAuthor 5.0 requires a 386 processor, 1 Mbyte of RAM for 16 color graphics or 2 Mbytes of RAM for 256 color graphics, a hard disk, a CGA, EGA, VGA or Super VGA graphics board, a mouse, MS-DOS 3.1 or higher, and Microsoft Windows 3.0 or higher.

AimTech Corporation, a privately held company with offices in Nashua, N.H., Los Angeles, Washington D.C., and London, England, develops and markets multi-platform software products for creating interactive multimedia applications.

AimTech Corp, 20 Trafalgar Square, Nashua, MA 03063-1973

603-883-0220;  800-289-2884;  fax: 603-883-5582


Special Limited Time Offer from Chemical Design

In celebration of its 10th Anniversary, Chemical Design is pleased to announce for orders received through Friday, February 12, 1993, a Personal License for the Basic Chem-X Modules (ChemCore, ChemModel, ChemGuide and ChemMovie) for a PC or Macintosh II is available for a special 50% discount from our regular pricing. An Industrial Personal License for the Basic System, normally $4,000, is available during this special offer for only $2,000. Nonprofit institutions may purchase a Personal License, normally at $2,000, for only $1,000. Optional modules are available for only $1,000 per module for Industrials and $500 per module for Nonprofit institutions. Each Personal License includes Full Documentation, Telephone Support for 1 year and one update of the software modules licensed. The Full Documentation includes the Reference Manual and User Guide with worked examples. Chemical Design also offers Free Introductory Workshops to Chem-X for new users.

Chem-X is the only system to provide the PC and Macintosh user with the full range of modeling tools usually only available on more expensive UNIX workstations. The Basic Chem-X Modules' functions include a user-friendly menu based system with the "Action Menu" containing easy to use, single pick modeling functions; real-time motion of molecules on a PC or a Macintosh II with spectacular display choices; worked examples which run online; input of molecules (small organics, inorganics, polymers or biomacromolecules) from data files or by sketching in the molecules; partial charge calculations; molecular mechanics based energy calculations; geometry calculations with a real-time monitoring feature; conformational analysis; volume map calculations; potential map calculations; docking of molecules; automatic rigid and flexible superimposition of molecules; and crystal symmetry calculations. The Optional Chem-X Modules offer advanced Polymer, Protein and Inorganic modeling capabilities; Quantum Mechanics calculations; Statistics calculations; and 3-D Database building and searching for pharmacophore identification and for agrochemical and pharmaceutical lead generation. Commercial 3-D Databases are also available from Chemical Design for the PC or Macintosh.

Chemical Design is the leading supplier of molecular modeling and 3D database systems, with over 350 installations of its Chem-X software worldwide. Chem-X is used for new product research in areas as diverse as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, petrochemicals, polymers and protein engineering. Customers include divisions of most major multinational chemical and pharmaceutical companies as well as many leading academic research centers. Chem-X is available for PC, Apple Macintosh, UNIX workstation and VAX computers.

Chemical Design, 200 route 17 South, Suite 120, Mahwah, NJ 07430

201-529-3323;  fax: 201-529-2443


Values Quest Aid to Setting & Reaching Goals
Franklin Quest Co. Introduces Software To Aid In Setting And Reaching Goals

Salt Lake City, Utah; December 1, 1992--Franklin Quest Co. (NYSE:FNQ), a leading time management training company, announced today the release of a new software package called Values Quest. Values Quest contains two main components--a values and goals planning tool and a phone and address list manager.

Each month, Franklin teaches thousands of individuals in its time management seminars the importance of creating a "Personal Productivity Pyramid". The Personal Productivity Pyramid is a concept taught by Franklin to help individuals identify their "governing values" and to strategically plan long-range and intermediate goals to incorporate these values into their daily lives. The software takes a user step-by-step through the process of selecting his or her core governing values. The software offers a large list of sample values along with statements that help clarify each value. The user simply makes any necessary changes to the supplied values and clarifying statements, adds any unique values not supplied with Values Quest, then prints out their pyramid.

"Values Quest is a very exciting product for me," said Hyrum Smith, chief executive officer for Franklin. "It is one that I have been thinking about since we started the company. For a number of years, customers have gone through the Franklin Time Management seminar and have asked us to play a larger role in helping establish their Personal Productivity Pyramids. Values Quest was created in response to that request."

In addition to the values and goals section, Values Quest contains a complete list manager for address and phone information. Values Quest will print phone directories, envelopes and labels. Values Quest will also auto dial phone numbers and import and export data.

Values Quest is compatible with Franklin's full-featured personal information manager, Ascend, allowing Values Quest users to upgrade to Ascend without loosing any data. Values Quest is available in both Microsoft Windows and Macintosh formats and prints on either Franklin Day Planner forms or blank 8 1/2" x 11" paper. A DOS version is under development.

Values Quest is developed and marketed by Franklin Quest Co., a leading provider of training seminars and products designed to improve individual productivity through effective time management. More than one million individuals currently use the Franklin Day Planner system.

The suggested list price for Values Quest is $49.95.

Franklin Quest Co.

2550 South Decker Lake Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84119

801-975-9992;  800-877-1814;  fax: 801-975-9995


MacArcade Top Macintosh Shareware Game Picks
Let The Games Begin

Chapel Hill, N.C.--Watch out for surprise salvos, spooks on suicide runs, enemy supply ships, bonus prizes on parade, and a cast of nasties bobbing and weaving, evading your every move! Readers of MacArcade: Don Rittner's Top Shareware Game Picks are duly warned as they enter the treacherous realms created by this unique collection of Macintosh shareware games, new from Ventana Press.

"Everyone plays games--and shareware lets you do it without breaking the bank," says Mac games guru Don Rittner. MacArcade presents the best of the lot for Systems 6 and 7: 40 low-cost or no-cost games as good as or better than commercially available software. This package does more than just whet readers' appetites for fun. It includes ten games on two disks, ready to pop into the computer and play.

Featuring game descriptions, hints and tricks for enhancing computer performance and evading soaring nasties, quirky bios and photos of even quirkier shareware authors, MacArcade epitomizes the playful spirit of the Macintosh community. (Rittner confides that Ben Haller, Solarian II author, promised to cut his hair into a mohawk and dye it purple if Ventana would publish his picture in color--we didn't.)

Novices will appreciate the book's thorough explanation of "this 'shareware' thing" and the online services where the games reside, as well as suggestions for optimal hardware and software configurations. Experienced Mac aficionados may find inspiration in the shareware authors' own stories of their games' evolution.

Ever the champion of interactivity, Rittner encourages readers to help select the best new games that will appear in future editions of MacArcade by providing a reply card with space for readers' picks in the back of the book.

A consummate gamesman since purchasing one of the first Macs in 1984, Don Rittner also runs the MUG News Service (MNS), created and manages the online forum for the Society for Environmental Journalists and founded and presides over Computer Users for Social Responsibility, Inc. He is the author of EcoLinking: Everyone's Guide to Online Environmental Information (Peachpit Press), the first electronic directory of Missing Children and several articles in MacUser and MacWeek magazines.

MacArcade comes with two disks and is softcover, 7" x 9", 200 pages with illustrations and shareware author photos. Suggested retail price: $27.95. ISBN: 1-56604-038-8.

Ventana Press publishes books that help computer users make the most of their hardware and software. Best-selling titles include The Mac Shareware 500, The Official America Online Membership Kit & Tour Guide (Macintosh and PC versions), The System 7 Book, Looking Good In Print and Voodoo DOS. All titles are available in bookstores and through Ventana Press, P.O. Box 2468, Chapel Hill, NC 27515


NBC, IBM & NuMedia Multimedia Business Comm.
NBC, IBM, NBC AND NUMEDIA ANNOUNCE MULTIMEDIA BUSINESS COMMUNICATION PILOT

NEW YORK, Nov. 11 -- IBM, NBC and NuMedia Corporation today announced a joint agreement for a market test of a revolutionary new multimedia business news and information service that will allow users to access current business, market and industry-specific news through their desktop personal computers. The joint agreement draws on the extensive news gathering and processing capabilities of NBC, CNBC, IBM's multimedia products, technology and field support, and NuMedia's patented multimedia delivery network and authoring tools for broadcast news and information services.

The proposed service, NBC Desktop News, integrates text, graphics, video and sound in an easy-to-use, concise format, with a look much like that of television news. The service is designed for corporate users who need the latest news and information on demand, but who don't have hours to comb through the diverse range of news and information sources available to businesses today. NBC Desktop News will automatically review in-coming video, text and other data bases, and based upon each subscriber's profile, will create a customized mix of news and information.

NBC Desktop News will include business and financial market news as a base subscription service. Additional, industry-specific news and information tiers can be customized according to each corporate user's requests. Typical of the general business and market news that will be available to users will be segments of no longer than two minutes, that are continuously updated throughout each day. Corporations may also subscribe to industry-specific news segments in such areas as pharmaceutical, computer, and financial.

National, international, local, weather news and traffic reports are additional options under development.

"The bombardment of news and information available each day is staggering," said Tom Rogers, President, NBC Cable and Business Development and Executive Vice President, NBC. "This pilot marks a key step in our ability to cut through the clutter and deliver news and information to corporations and government offices, areas traditionally underserved by broadcast television and cable. Being able to recall the exact type of information users seek is an important feature in this pilot test," Rogers added.

In addition to the base business news service, and industry specific news, subscribers will be able to incorporate their own corporate news and training information into NBC Desktop News service.

IBM's pilot demonstrates our vision to deliver information any place, at any time, in all its forms," said Michael A. Braun, IBM Assistant General Manager, Multimedia. "Our technology is a key element of this test, and our business and government customers are ideal prospects for this service."

Subscribers to the pilot will receive programming via satellite to the participating site(s). Broadcast, fiber optic and cable delivery systems may also be used in the future. Both digital and analog versions of the service will be evaluated during the pilot test. For the digital version, the information will be downlinked and stored in a PS/2 Model server with OS/2 2.0 for distribution to PCs on either Token-Ring or Ethernet local area networks (LAN). For the analog version, IBM will provide PS/2 TV and F-couplers that will connect to existing building wiring, such as shielded twisted pair and co-axial cable. NBC Desktop News is supported by either DOS, Windows or OS/2 2.0.

NuMedia's patented Desktop TV (DTv) system provides the software to access the news services with options to customize the content through the PS/2 server for each PC user's desktop.

"Multimedia news and training offers organizations a backbone of communication capability to address productivity and quality issues. The technology offers complete flexibility for each corporation and individual users," said Arthur Esch, NuMedia's chairman and chief executive officer.

NuMedia is a privately-held multimedia development company based in Alexandria, Va.

The market pilot to determine customer requirements will run from December 1992 through mid-1993.


Industry Leaders at SPA 1993 Spring Symposium
Over 1200 Industry Leaders to Attend SPA 1993 Spring Symposium

1993 Excellence in Software Awards to be presented

December 14, 1992 (Washington, DC) -- The Software Publishers Association (SPA) announced today its plans for the 1993 Spring Symposium to be held March 3-6, 1993, at the Marriott Hotel and Marina in San Diego, California. Over 1200 industry leaders are expected to attend.

Keynote speakers include Phillipe Kahn, chairman, chief executive officer and founder, Borland International; and Joseph Guglielmi, chairman and chief executive officer, Taligent, Inc.

Over 43 sessions of interest to publishers of consumer, education, and business software will be conducted, covering issues such as operations, marketing issues and finance for small software publishers, distribution, mobile computing, international marketing, and technical development.

SPA conferences typically draw more than 300 CEO's from some of the most successful software companies in business today. Dozens of distributors also attend the sessions. The balance of attendees are key decision makers in software and related industries.

In addition to the sessions, the conference features the annual SPA Excellence in Software Awards ceremony, to be hosted by comedienne Paula Poundstone. A record 500 products are nominated for the 25 industry awards recognizing outstanding software products introduced in 1992. Winners are selected by the SPA members.

The Software Publishers Association is the principal trade association of the PC software industry. Its 1,000 members represent business, consumer, and education software firms around the world. The SPA has offices in Washington, DC, and Paris, France.

Software publishers Association

1730 M St, Northwest, Suite 700, Washington, D.C. 20036

202-452-1600,  Fax: 202-223-8756


NoMouse for Windows Updated

Grand Rapids, MI -- November 1992 -- This week Abacus introduces a new version of NoMouse, the software mouse.

NoMouse 4 includes many new features, including user configurable mouse movement and keys; instantaneous movement by response; user adjustable tracking speed; new click and double click toggle keys and a new cursor coordinate-monitoring window.

NoMouse 4 is the software replacement for the hardware mouse. It provides precise control of the mouse pointer by using the keyboard to emulate the mouse movements.

NoMouse can be used by any Windows user and is especially designed for notebook and laptop users who are on the go and can't use a hardware mouse. NoMouse 4 also retains the features available in previous versions, including an inverse mouse pointer, enlarged hour glass, enhanced I-beam pointer and an instant EasyFind cursor.

The suggested retail price remains $49.95. Current NoMouse users can upgrade to the new version for $29.95

Abacus is a leading software and book publisher who pioneered book/disk combinations. Abacus books and software titles can be found at chains and reseller locations throughout the world.

Abacus, 5370 52nd St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508

616-698-0330;  fax: 616-698-0325


NetWorld Shows to be Networks Expo in 1994
BRUNO BLENHEIM NETWORKING SHOWS TO BE PRODUCED UNDER THE NAME NETWORKS EXPO(TM)

Fort Lee, NJ, December 18, 1992 - Bruno Blenheim Inc., announced today that it will operate its networking trade shows under the name Networks Expo(TM) in 1994 in Boston and Dallas. Ralph J. Ianuzzi, Sr., CEO, explained that the shows previously had been called NetWorld(R), under license from Novell, Inc.

Bruno Blenheim owns the shows, the venue contracts, the database of attendees compiled over the years, as well as all of the good will attached to those assets. The shows will continue to be produced in the same locations and time frames they now occupy, Ianuzzi reported. The decision to change to Networks Expo(TM) was made because the exclusive license agreement with Novell to use the name expires after the Dallas show in October 1993.

"Networks Expo(TM) captures the essence of the bigger picture in network computing by maintaining the LAN market and facilitating the expansion and migration of LAN applications toward the enterprise and global networking marketplace," Ianuzzi said. "Networks Expo(TM) will continue its leadership role in offering exhibitors and attendees alike the essential marketplace for networking products and services.

"When we acquired the Dallas show in 1987, it had been held once in 1986 at the Infomart as a NetWare-only event, attracting 87 exhibitors and just under 2,500 attendees. In 1987, we nearly doubled the number of exhibitors to 163 and almost tripled attendance to over 6,500, by opening the show to all primary vendors in the networking business, regardless of whether or not their products were compatible with NetWare," Ianuzzi reported.

"The launch of a second show in Boston in 1989, better enabled us to meet the needs of a rapidly expanding networking universe. This year, the biannual show attracted 860 exhibitors and 69,681 attendees in both locations, a gratifying accomplishment for us all. We look forward to continuing this fine record.

"Our shows have been produced, promoted and managed under the service mark, NetWorld(R), through our own expertise and without a mandate to support the marketing program of any one exhibitor," Ianuzzi said. "Our goal always has been to produce shows for network computing that create and assure an open marketplace for all exhibitors in the field who are interested in reaching corporate buyers, system integrators and value added resellers. We're not changing that. Networks Expo(TM) will be the same shows with business as usual and continue our mission to showcase network technology developments worldwide, embracing the entire enterprise network and the applications beneficial to the business community."

Blenheim already has Europe's preeminent networking show under its brand name Networks in Birmingham, England, and another in Stockholm, Sweden, as well as the leading telecommunications show in France, Telecom Network. This was a major factor in selecting the new name. "We are implementing an international promotional campaign to apprise buyers and other attendees of our name change," Ianuzzi said.

Bruno Blenheim is part of Blenheim Group, PLC, the world's largest trade show producer with more than 250 events in America, Europe and the Far East. In the United States, Blenheim also produces PC EXPO in New York and Chicago, and UNIX EXPO, among its high-tech events.

Bruno Blenheim Inc

Fort Lee Executive Park, One Executive Dr, Fort Lee, NJ 07024

800-829-3976,  201-346-1400,  Fax: 201-346-1532


Target Micro Low-Cost Desktop Marketing Swr
New Low-Cost Desktop Marketing

December 14, 1992 -- Target Microsystems has just released new 5th-generation versions of its software products, Rifleshot and Bullseye, which provide high-end desktop marketing features for small/medium businesses. Features for business-to-business marketers include:

Salesforce Automation - Links geographically dispersed field laptops into full-featured integrated salesforce automation systems with many user-configurable options. Leads are transmitted to field laptops, and sales activity data is transmitted back to managers. Transmissions are via modem or diskette.

Automated Inquiry Processing - keyboard entry or import leads from publishers. Prints response letters/labels; automatically assigns followup; transmits leads to field salespeople via modem, diskette, or printed lead sheets.

Lead Tracking - Measures discard rate, prospect count, sales revenue, forecast dollars, time to qualify, time to close, monitors progress of leads throughout the selling cycle.

Database Marketing - 72 sort key fields for high-precision prospect profiling, distribution analysis, aging analysis purge, merge/purge databases, duplicate name traps.

Direct Marketing - Imports mailing lists in all popular formats, automates personalized direct mail campaigns, performs Nth sample tests, bulk mail optimizer, automated multishot mailing sequences.

Performance Analysis - Measures payback on ad/promo investments, salesperson lead utilization effectiveness, actual sales performance vs plan, selling cycles, wide array of management reports + report writer.

Pricing starts at $195 - very affordable for even the smallest business. Runs on IBM-compatibles.

Target Microsystems, 1852 Blacks Rd, Hebron, OH 43025

800-SELL PRO (735-5776)


DEBUG*2000 for Unix V3.2 Available
DEBUG*2000 FOR UNIX -- VERSION 3.2

AVAILABLE FROM COMPUTER INNOVATIONS

December 15, 1992 -- Tinton Falls, NJ - Computer Innovations, Inc. announced today the immediate availability of Version 3.2 of their popular C/C++ debugger, DEBUG*2000. DEBUG*2000 provides a dynamic multi-window debugging capability that uses clean and uncomplicated operations to reduce the time and effort required to develop both C and C++ programs. It is now available in specific versions to support UNIX SVR4.x 386/486, UNIX SVR3.2 386/486, and LynxOS 386/486. New features in DEBUG*2000 include shared library debugging, debug running process, and support for multi-processor products such as the NCR 3450/3550, and Unisys U6000.

DEBUG*2000 offers the developer a choice of windows that allow multiple views of the C or C++ program being debugged, including Source, Local, Global, Stack, Dump, Register, Source, Disassembly, Threads, Help, and a "Watch" window for user selected data. The selected windows are dynamically updated as the program executes. Extensive use of pop-up lists and menus reduce the tracking and management of files, functions, types, variables, and objects. Single or counted breakpoints are easy to manage, and hardware breakpoints are supported. DEBUG*2000 provides full C++ support including classes and methods.

DEBUG*2000 is available for most popular UNIX 386/486 platforms, including, AT&T/USL Consensys Dell DEC, ESIX, Intel, Interactive, Microport, MST, NCR Sequent, SCO, Solaris, UH Corp., Univel, Unisys, VenturCom & Wyse. A 5-user license is available for US$1995, and single user licenses for the product are US$595.

Founded in 1978, Computer Innovations Inc. is a research and development company that provides software development tools to systems engineers and software programmers for product development and system integration. Computer Innovations Inc. is located at 980 Shrewsbury Avenue, Tinton Falls, NJ, 07724-3003, and can be reached by phone at (800) 922-0169, or (908) 542-5920, or by fax at (908) 542-6121.


New Books for PC Users from Abacus
New Books for PC Users

Grand Rapids, MI -- December 1992 -- Abacus, a publisher of computer specialty books, is announcing four new titles for IBM/PC and compatible users.

Best Seller!

The Sound Blaster Book shows users how to use and explore the most popular interface for producing sound on PCs today, the Sound Blaster from Creative Labs. It is the guide to Sound Blaster from installation to custom programming. Includes information on all Sound Blaster boards and many commercial, public domain and shareware software products. Author: Axel Stolz. ISBN 1-55755-164-2. Order Item #B164. Suggested Retail $34.95 with 3.5" companion disk. Available now and already a bestseller!

Second Printing!

Wicked Windows is a collection of some of the funniest, wackiest and wicked Windows pranks, puzzles, toys and games for all Windows users. This and more are included on the companion disk. All programs in the book are ORIGINAL. That means no hidden fees or costs to use them! #B162. ISBN 1-55755-162-6. $19.95 with 3.5" companion disk.

Coming soon...

Wicked Sounds of Windows includes 40 great sounds from nature, the animal kingdom, music and traffic to use the multimedia of Windows 3.1. These sounds together with the expanded Event Manager let users have up to 12 different Windows events accompanied with individual sounds. Authors: Thorsten Petrowski and Axel Stolz. Available January 1993. ISBN 1-55755-168-5. Item: #B168. Suggested retail price $29.95 with companion disk.

Coming soon...

Multimedia Mania teaches users about the fast moving multimedia explosion in the PC industry. Teaches users how to develop a professional multimedia presentation. Covers the basics of multimedia including how to build an MPC (multimedia personal computer) system and much more. Includes a companion CD with the complete text of the book, example programs and techniques gives users practical experience with multimedia. It also includes a complete command and menu reference at the end of the book. Authors: Herald Frater, Dirk Paulissen, Markus Schuller. ISBN 1-55755-166-9. Order Item #B166. Suggested Retail $49.95 with companion CD. Available January, 1993.

Abacus is a leading book and software publisher who pioneered book/disk combinations. Abacus book and software titles can be found at chains and reseller locations throughout the world.

Abacus, 5370 52nd St SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508

616-698-0330;  fax: 616-698-0325


FaxFacts Adds Intel & ComWave Faxboard Support
FAXFACTS ADDS INTEL AND COMWAVE FAXBOARD SUPPORT

WHEATON, IL -- Copia announces the addition of the ComWave and Intel SatisFAXtion fax board family to their successful FaxFacts product. FaxFacts already supports the Brooktrout, GammaLink and Hayes JT-Fax boards. "By supporting the Intel family of fax boards we automatically gain support for the growing number of CAS compatible fax boards", says Terry Flanagan, Vice President of Engineering at Copia. The ComWave fax board, approved for use in the U.S. and many foreign countries, further expands FaxFacts compatibility in the international market.

FaxFacts supports the Intel 100, 200 and 400 fax boards. In supporting the Intel 100, Copia establishes a lower priced entry point to a FaxFacts Fax-On-Demand system. Intel's 100 fax board supports a single line system and provides a proven upgrade path into more powerful FaxFacts products. The Intel 200 fax board provides multi-line capabilities at mid-range pricing. Intel's high speed fax board, the Intel SatisFAXtion 400, supports the 14.4 speed that runs 50% faster than the typical 9600 baud transmission.

Receive additional information about FaxFacts by testing the system yourself. Call 1-708-924-3030 and select document number 8900. To speak with a FaxFacts representative, call 1-708-682-8898.

Copia International, 1342 Avalon Court, Wheaton, IL 60187

Voice: 708-682-8898;   Fax: 708-665-9841


CAD Overlay Users Upgrade to RxRasterCAD V2.0
Expert Graphics Upgrades CAD Overlay Users to RxRasterCAD V 2.0

December 11, 1992 -- Atlanta -- Expert Graphics Inc., the nationwide distributor of GTX and RASTEREX products in the U.S.A., is pleased to announce a new upgrade policy for CAD Overlay users to RxRaster CAD V 2.0, the latest RASTEREX version of GTXRaster CAD. RxRaster CAD is a module of RxEDM, RASTEREX's engineering document management solution. This comprehensive raster editor allows a scanned image to be loaded into the background of AutoCAD and then edited using intelligent raster object picking tools inside AutoCAD, thereby significantly speeding up the drawing conversion process.

RxRaster CAD is a highly optimized version of GTXRaster CAD for RASTEREX graphics boards, which are distributed solely by Expert Graphics Inc. in the U.S.A. and Canada. The RASTEREX version adds significant performance, useful pop-up icon menus, and the ability to run at 1280x1024 resolution.

Included among the new features for RxRaster CAD V 2.0 are: enhanced image manipulation which simplifies repositioning, rotation, mirroring, despeckle, and deskewing tools for faster image cleanup. Additionally, raster images are easy to scale and align with an AutoCAD drawing, creating either a hybrid or scaled standalone drawing.

Many more raster file formats are now supported using an improved file handling system; these features and formats include:

-- automatic format detection simplifying use within AutoCAD

-- increased format support to include CALS G4, TIFF, among

   other formats

-- ability to load raster files from document management

   solutions such as Optigraphics, Cimage, Alpharel, etc.

Set-up of RxRaster CAD V 2.0 has been significantly enhanced, making configurations easier through on-line utility menus. Plotting is improved using a technique called open plotting that enables hybrid files to be plotted without any external utility, and the output is now compatible to any of the following printers or plotters: Postscript, Versatec, Calcomp, Novajet, HP, Oce', JDL, and compatible devices.

RxRaster CAD retails for $1,995.00. Upgrades are available for both CAD Overlay ESP and CAD Overlay Classic users. CAD Overlay ESP users can upgrade to RxRaster CAD V 2.0 for $500.00 through any of Expert Graphics Inc.'s dealers, yielding a discount of $1,495.00 off of list price. ESP users can also upgrade to the SUN version for $600.00, moreover, SUN users can optimize their investment by configuring RxRaster CAD for a floating network license. For $1,500.00, CAD Overlay Classic users can upgrade to RxRaster CAD yielding a discount of $495.00 off of list price.

Expert Graphics

1908 Cliff Valley Way, Suite 2010, Atlanta, GA 30329

404-320-0800;  Fax: 404-315-7645;  800-648-7249


Turbo Pascal 7: The Complete Reference

by Stephen K. O'Brien & Steve Nameroff

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of Turbo Pascal 7: The Complete Reference, covering every Turbo Pascal 7 command, procedure, and programming technique. This complete and bestselling single resource, also covers Turbo Pascal for Windows 1.5, and Borland Pascal.

Earlier editions of this book have been highly praised for the thousands of lines of source code and complete programs of varying size and complexity. Readers will also find the book's organization makes it easy to locate information, including all the code and syntax in the comprehensive procedure and command reference sections. Programmers at every skill level will welcome the detailed explanations and practical examples of object-oriented programming techniques.

The authors cover other critical programming topics that include. OOP examples found in graphic programs, sorting and searching routines, and other applications; using Units, and the Turbo Pascal system for modular subroutines; building applications using the Turbo Vision and Object Window libraries; and much more.

If there is one book Turbo Pascal programmers should keep handy, it's Turbo Pascal 7: The Complete Reference.

$29.95        ISBN:  0-07-881793-5           864 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


Turbo Pascal 7 Handbook

by Werner Feibel

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of Turbo Pascal 7 Handbook, a new programming guide offering beginning programmers the best way to learn Turbo Pascal.

Written by Werner Feibel, author of two previous editions of this bestselling book, Turbo Pascal 7 Handbook is packed with programming examples, software objects, and complete programs of all sizes. The book includes detailed step-by-step instructions on how to write speedy, efficient programs in Turbo Pascal 7, plus clear explanations of object-oriented programming and how to take advantage of it.

Programmers will learn an abundance of programming concepts and skills in areas such as -- language extensions, enhancements, and libraries included in Version 7; object-oriented programming (OOP) techniques, including encapsulization, inheritance. and polymorphism: making complex programs more manageable using Units; assembling libraries of reusable software with Turbo Vision; and much more.

For immediate access to everything Turbo Pascal 7 has to offer -- and precise, practical instruction in how to use it -- programmers will want to keep a copy of this book close at hand.

$29.95              ISBN:  0-07-881799-4           864 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


FORTRAN Programming for Windows

by L. John Ribar

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of FORTRAN Programming for Windows, a new guide to FORTRAN under Windows for experienced FORTRAN programmers.

Author L. John Ribar demonstrates how to create Windows applications, or migrate existing FORTRAN programs into the Windows environment. Ribar provides a theoretical background on the issues involved in porting existing FORTRAN programs and creating new programs for Windows, while including a host of practical examples.

FORTRAN programmers will find all the information they need on how FORTRAN for Windows differs from stand-alone compilers, and how to capitalize on the hot new features available. Ribar also covers creating and using Dynamic Link Libraries for constructing full-fledged application systems; how Visual Basic can function as a powerful frontend generator to save time and maximize programming effort; how C and C++ programs can be integrated with FORTRAN programs expanding the versatility of applications.

Ribar's new book is an invaluable resource that will help programmers preserve their FORTRAN code, and maximize its usefulness under Windows. Clear and concise, this book will become a constant reference to FORTRAN under Windows.

$29.95              ISBN:  0-07-881908-3           264 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


Visual Basic 2 for Windows Inside & Out

By Gary Cornell

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of Visual Basic for Windows 2 Inside & Out, the best all-around guide for Visual Basic 2 programmers at every level.

Author Gary Cornell provides comprehensive coverage of structured Basic programming while teaching users how to take full advantage of all the capabilities of Visual Basic 2 for Windows. Programmers can begin exploring Visual Basic 2 by using the book to learn the environment while manipulating the windows quickly and efficiently. Cornell moves on to cover the creation of custom applications development using the tools in Visual Basic 2. Experienced programmers will gain added insights through the discussions of topics ranging from the timely manipulation of properties to the optimal use of command structures. Programmers at every level will benefit from Cornell's explanations of the new debugging control and language features, along with dynamic data exchange (DDE) and object linking exchange (OLE).

With its wealth of coverage, plus an appendix comparing QuickBASIC, GW-BASIC, and Visual Basic, this book is the one indispensable guide to Visual Basic 2 for Windows programmers will turn to every time.

$27.95              ISBN: 0-07-881931-8              680 pages

Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 2600 Tenth St, Berkeley, CA 94710

510-549-6600,  Fax: 510-549-6603


AMT INTRODUCES DUAL-HEAD LOW-COST PRINTERS

CAMARILLO, CA--Advanced Matrix Technology, Inc. (AMT) has introduced four new dot-matrix printers each containing two 9-wire printheads. The new printers, named the AMT ACCEL-290 series, print at 540 characters per second (cps), which is twice as fast as competing dot-matrix printers with only one printhead. Instead of using only one printhead to print an entire page, the AMT ACCEL-290s use one printhead to print the left side of the page while simultaneously using the other to print the right. Using two printheads in this way provides two very important benefits: doubled throughput and doubled printhead life.

"Think of an ACCEL-290 as two printers for the price of one," said David Beardsley, AMT's Vice-President of Sales. "Each printhead only performs half the work, so the printer will produce pages twice as fast. AMT designed the 290 series for users that demand exceptionally fast yet low-cost printing solutions." The AMT ACCEL-290s are the only dual-headed dotmatrix printers offered in the industry for under $1,000.

The AMT ACCEL-290s are fully compatible with both Epson and IBM/Lexmark printers, so they plug-and-play with virtually all PC software including Microsoft Windows. There are no special software drivers required for dual-head printing, since separating the data among the printheads is performed by the printer. In fact, the user does not have to do anything at all to get dual-head printing--it is completely automatic!

The AMT ACCEL-290 series consists of four different models: the ACCEL-292 and ACCEL-292d, which are 85-column printers; and the ACCEL-294 and ACCEL-294d, which are 136-column printers. The two 85-column models are unusual in that they actually produce an 8.5-inch print line on the page, enabling users to print edge-to-edge on letter-size paper. Most competing foreign-made printers are capable of only 80 columns per line. The 292d and 294d models are also unusual since they each contain a motorized demand-document bottom feeder that enables forms fed from the bottom of the printer to be torn off without wasting the next form.

All AMT ACCEL-290 printers come with AMT's patented Select-dial control panel, which BYTE Magazine called "the slickest interface of all [dot-matrix printers]." The Select-dial is a very user-friendly way to set printing parameters, load paper and align forms. ACCEL-290 printers come standard with three paper paths: top for cut sheets, and rear and bottom for pin-fed paper. Also, the 292d and 294d models let users load paper into the rear and bottom paper paths at the same time and then alternately use zero-forms tear-off (demand document) from both paper paths. All ACCEL-290s include serial and parallel interfaces.

To complement the AMT ACCEL-290 printers, AMT offers single-, double- and triple-bin sheetfeeders for most printer models, and roll-feed options. These paper handling accessories are priced from $95.

The AMT ACCEL-290 series printers are affordably priced from $795 and are sold by authorized AMT Dealers and OEMs. AMT can customize printers to meet most OEM and enduser requirements. For more information, please contact AMT Sales at (800) 992-2264.

Advanced Matrix Technology Inc

765 Flynn Rd, Camarillo, CA 93010

805-388-5799, Fax: 805-484-5282


NEW VIDEO COURSEWARE FOR POWERPOINT 3.0

Los Gatos, California, U.S.A., December 11, 1992 -- Anderson Soft-Teach announces it will ship a complete video training course for PowerPoint 3.0. Shipments of the training package will begin January 31, 1993.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND COURSE TOPICS

The new PowerPoint 3.0 training courseware includes three volumes which cover the essentials of PowerPoint. Topics covered in Volume I include creating and editing slides, adding clip art and reorganizing a presentation. Volume 2 provides instruction on drawing in PowerPoint, as well as using master pages, color schemes and templates. In Volume 3, the student will learn how to create and customize graphs, create notes, pages and handouts, and create an on-screen presentation. Detailed course outlines can be obtained directly from Anderson Soft-Teach.

Each training volume includes a videotape for instruction, a step-by-step workbook and practice disk for hands-on practice (disk duplication license also included), and a self-test to measure learning retention. Anderson Soft-Teach will also send a certificate of completion to each person who successfully completes the self-test.

The three volume course will be sold for $995.

THE SMART CLASSROOM

The "Smart Classroom" approach, created by Anderson Soft-Teach, is helping many training professionals successfully meet their training demand while faced with shrinking resources, frequent version changes, multiple platforms, and the explosion of Windows products.

In a "Smart Classroom," Anderson Soft-Teach videotapes are used as the "lecture" portion of the class. A teacher or facilitator monitors the class, starting and stopping the videotapes to introduce topics, facilitate discussion, answer questions, initiate hands-on exercises, and administer the self-test. There is a tremendous savings in course development and delivery time for the teacher/facilitator. Students find the methodology visual and stimulating.

The "Smart Classroom" works well with a teacher or a "class leader/facilitator" monitoring the class. Since the videotapes and workbooks drive the class, the teacher can choose to stay in the classroom the entire time, or to "come and go" while class is in session.

Trainers already using the "Smart Classroom" report that they are putting many more students through their PC training programs by using Anderson Soft-Teach videotapes and workbooks as the core of their classes. The "instant training" possible with this courseware allows them to maintain a comprehensive selection of courses. They can also use the courseware to "train-the-trainer." In addition, Anderson Soft-Teach courseware is simple to implement at multiple sites within a corporation.

The "Smart Classroom" helps trainers avoid burnout, allows them to develop and teach higher-level classes, and lets them focus on additional areas of responsibility.

According to Joyce Boeringer, Systems Analyst for McDonnell Douglas, "Using the Anderson Soft-Teach courses in the classroom has allowed us to train about 120 students per week. It seems we're always trying to do more with less, " says Boeringer, " and using Anderson Soft-Teach in the class is one of the ways we've found to do it."

VIDEO COURSES ARE NOW CLOSE-CAPTIONED FOR THE HEARING IMPAIRED

With the recent passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), companies are now required to accommodate the working environment of people with disabilities. Anderson Soft-Teach has recognized this need and is close cpationing its instructional videotapes. The hearing impaired individual can now learn from our courses by reading the subtitles on the screen as the instructor speaks. Open-captioning is also offered for situations where a decoder box is not available.

ABOUT ANDERSON SOFT-TEACH

Anderson Soft-Teach is currently celebrating its 10-year anniversary as the producer of the largest library of video courseware in the industry for personal computer software. Its products are sold both domestically and internationally. Anderson Soft-Teach's current line of courseware topics includes PowerPoint 3.0, Windows, Word for Windows, Excel for Windows, WordPerfect for Windows, MS-DOS, Lotus 1-2-3, WordPerfect, dBASE IV, Introduction to PC's, Introduction to LAN's and others.

Anderson Soft-Teach, 983 University Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030

Sales: (800) 338-4336

Corporate/International: (408) 399-0100

Fax: (408) 399-0500


Apple Selects AOL Technology for Online Info
Apple Selects America Online's Technology for Future Online Information Services

CUPERTINO, California--December 4, 1992--Apple Computer, Inc. and America Online, Inc. today announced a business agreement in which Apple will use technologies developed by America Online in future online information services that Apple will manage and market. The two companies also announced that they plan to work together to develop enhancements to the America Online services platform and to establish it as a standard.

Online information services enable people to use personal computers and other devices to access a wide range of information, to access transaction services such as electronic shopping or banking, and to communicate with each other.

Under the agreement, America Online has granted Apple a non-exclusive license to use the America Online services platform to provide Apple-branded online services. America Online will receive a royalty based on usage.

Apple OnLine Services (AOS), the information services business unit in Apple's Personal Interactive Electronics Division, plans to incorporate the America Online technologies into enhanced versions of AppleLink, Apple's global electronic communications and information service. AOS also will use this technology for other Apple online services that will be introduced in the future.

"This agreement is an example of how companies must combine technologies and market strengths to establish standards in the emerging digital information age," said Peter Friedman, director of Apple OnLine Services. "America Online's services platform provides us with unique, advanced and scalable technology. This, combined with Apple's technology and market position, gives us a solid basis to continue growing our worldwide, Apple-branded information services business."

Stephen M. Case, president of America Online, said, "To date, our focus has been attracting additional subscribers to the America Online service, and to support this effort we have invested heavily in technology to create a flexible and easy to use online services platform. We'll continue to focus on increasing our own subscriber base, but we feel the time is now right to broaden our role in the online services market by licensing our services platform to others. Through this collaboration with Apple, we believe we can accelerate the adoption of a common services platform."

Headquartered in Vienna, Virginia, America Online, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMER) is the leading independent provider of online services to consumers in the United States. Founded in 1985, the company offers subscribers a wide variety of services, including electronic mail, conferencing, news, stock quotes, software, computing support and online classes. The services can be accessed from a broad range of personal computers using America Online's proprietary icon-based windowing software. The company completed an initial stock offering in March 1992.

Apple OnLine Services is Apple's information services business unit and currently provides commercial information services such as AppleLink and AppleLink CD to 50,000 subscribers in 52 countries around the world.

Apple Computer Inc, 20525 Mariana Ave, Cupertino, CA 95014

408-996-1010


Imagine: The Apple Education TV Series Schedule
Apple Announces 1993 Schedule for Imagine: The Apple Education TV Series

CUPERTINO, California--December 3, 1992--The Apple USA Education Division of Apple Computer, Inc. today announced the 1993 schedule for Imagine: The Apple Education TV Series. Imagine is a series of satellite television programs that demonstrate how technology is integrated into education. The programs provide an opportunity for educators and administrators to hear and see what their peers are doing with technology. This year, programs will be broadcast both via satellite downlink and on cable to schools, colleges and universities throughout the country.

In its fourth season, each program broadcast focuses on an educational topic and features exemplary solutions developed by educators and administrators. Programs include real-world examples of computer use, software demonstrations and question-and answer segments that allow viewers to call in with questions and comments. The series is free of charge and can be taped from the satellite broadcast for use in libraries, classroom presentations and faculty in-service programs.

Each program will air from 12 to 1 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on satellite. In addition, each program will be cablecast one week after the original satellite broadcast from 8 to 9 p.m. ET by cable television's Mind Extension University (ME/U): The Education Network of Englewood, Colorado.

The 1993 Apple Education TV Series Program schedule is:

Broadcast 1: Teacher Access To Computer Technology

Learn how districts are improving school administration and enhancing instructional effectiveness by increasing teacher access to Apple Macintosh technology.

Satellite:         January 21        12 to 1 p.m. ET

Cablecast:         January 27        8 to 9 p.m.  ET

Broadcast 2: Technologies for Language and Global Literacy

The classroom is evolving into an ever more multilingual world. How is technology helping to enhance written and spoken communication for speakers of English as a first--and second--language? Discover how the Macintosh combines sound, graphics, text, and video to encourage self-paced learning and foster language skills.

Satellite:         February 18       12 to 1 p.m. ET

Cablecast:         February 24       8 to 9 p.m.  ET

Broadcast 3: Multimedia & Education

Learn how teachers and students are using Macintosh computers to combine graphics, text, sound and digital video as they apply relationships and understand concepts spanning a number of curriculum areas.

Satellite:         March 18          12 to 1 p.m. ET

Cablecast:         March 24          8 to 9 p.m.  ET

Broadcast 4: Technology and the Evolving Classroom

Explore how new and emerging technologies are being used today in education and view a snapshot of the future of technology in education.

Satellite:         April 22          12 to 1 p.m. ET

Cablecast:         April 28          8 to 9 p.m.  ET

"The Imagine TV Series helps us reach educators and administrators who are interested in the latest technology advances for the classroom and how they can be implemented and positively impact teaching today," said Cheryl Vedoe, vice president and general manager of Apple USA's K-12 Education Division.

Mind Extension University provides quality educational programming to educators and students throughout the year. In teaming up with Mind Extension, Apple is making it easier for educators, administrators and parents to view the broadcasts at home or at school.

"We are excited about the opportunity to broadcast Imagine: The Apple Education TV Series because teachers and administrators tell us that one of their greatest needs is to get more information about how to use educational technology to help them do a better job in achieving excellence in the classroom," said Glenn R. Jones, founder of Mind Extension University and CEO of Jones Intercable.

The series is available via satellite downlink, cable and videotape. Ku-band and C-band satellite coordinates, information about ordering videotapes and cable information are available by calling Mind Extension University at 1-800-777-MIND.

In preparation for this year's Imagine series, Mind Extension will rebroadcast past seasons of the Imagine Series. Last year's series will air at the following times on the following dates:

6-7 pm ET   11:30-12:30 am ET   Title

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

Dec 4            Jan 9          Multimedia 101: Getting Started

Dec 11           Jan 16         Macintosh in the Classroom

Dec 18           Jan 23         Macintosh Solutions for

                                Administrators

Dec 25           Jan 30         Math & Data Analysis: Seeing

                                is Believing

Jan 1            Feb 6          Innovations in Technology

Jan 4            Feb 13         How Computers are Changing the

                                Way We Learn

Jan 6            Feb 20         Macintosh Solutions for Math &

                                Science

Jan 8            Feb 27         Multimedia in Language & Literacy

Jan 11           March 6        Information Harvesting &

                                Client/Server Architecture

Apple Computer, Inc. is a leading supplier of computers to consumer, education, business and government markets in the U.S. and a recognized innovator in the personal computer industry.

Mind Extension University (ME/U): The Education Network, a subsidiary of Jones Education Networks, Inc., is one of the fastest growing basic cable television networks in the United States currently reaching approximately 22 million households in nearly 7,000 communities.

Apple, the Apple logo and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.

Apple Computer Inc, 20525 Mariana Ave, Cupertino, CA 95014

408-996-1010


ACCSYS FOR DBASE ADDS FOXPRO DATABASE SUPPORT

WHEATON, IL - Copia International announces the addition of FoxPro support to their AccSys for dBASE database library. By including FoxPro support in AccSys for dBASE, Copia brings the efficiency of C and C++ to the FoxPro programmer as well as reaffirming Copia's commitment to support the top programming databases.

FoxPro is a leader in high performance dBASE compatible databases. Programmers working in C, Visual Basic and QuickBASlC who use AccSys for dBASE can create, read, write, modify and update FoxPro files without having to concern themselves with the internal file format peculiar to the database. AccSys for dBASE provides the means to give the programmer total control over FoxPro single and multiple field indexes as well as its memo fields and picture fields. AccSys for dBASE offers full network compatibility and FoxPro specific memo format support. Three indexes included in AccSys for dBASE allow for quick and efficient file access. These indexes include: .IDX; Compact .IDX; and .CDX (Combined Index).

The price for AccSys for dBASE is $395. The product with Source can be purchased for $995. AccSys for dBASE is available from Copia International, Ltd. Located in Wheaton, Illinois, Copia is a publisher and developer of software tools and solutions. In addition to the AccSys for dBASE library, Copia also offers the AccSys for Paradox database library and FaxFacts, a fully automated Fax-On-Demand system.

Copia International, 1342 Avalon Court, Wheaton, IL 60187

Voice: 708-682-8898;   Fax: 708-665-9841


NEW CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY DATABASE

More than 50,000 dynamic links provide instant chemical/material compatibility data. The newly developed Chemical Compatibility Database allows immediate search via Chemical or Material. The compatibility data is cross-referenced for quick and accurate solutions to compatibility inquiries.

The Chemical Compatibility Database is supported with an integral software engine that operates on any PC or compatible including networks. The database is updated each quarter to assure timely solutions. The Chemical Compatibility Database is an essential Tool for safety, engineering, process and environmental managers.

The Chemical Compatibility Database was developed by SOLUTIONS Software Corporation the leader in environmental information technology and publishers of the essential SOLUTIONS Database. The SOLUTIONS Database is in use throughout North America and Europe and is supported with the SOLUTIONS Electronic Information Technology Network.

Free information and DEMO Disks are available upon request.

SOLUTIONS Software Corporation

1795 Turtle Hill Rd, Enterprise, FL 32725

Telephone: (407) 321-7912;  FAX: (407) 323-4898

SITN: (407) 321-6119 [8-N-1]


Send Your Computer to Medical School
Send Your Computer to Medical School...At a Fraction of the Cost

Merritt Island, Fl, -- Your legs are swollen with red painful spots, almost knots, on your knees and ankles. Yesterday you counted 4 spots; today you have six. Is it a spider bite? A life threatening food allergy? A reaction to the sun? Stress? Do you rush off to the emergency room, or can treatment from a doctor wait a day? And what kind of doctor?

If you had the "Home Medical Advisor" software on your computer, you could call up a symptom file right away and scroll through the possibilities at home.

Key in your symptoms and you see that sudden swelling is a red flag and usually needs attention fast; slow gradual swelling, while a problem, can probably wait for an appointment with the doctor. Plug in the rest of your symptoms and the computer indicates you need treatment by a dermatologist. You need to make an appointment with the doctor, but the computer has saved you a costly trip to the ER, saving enough to cover the cost of your computer's "medical school."

The days of flipping through outdated first aid books are over if you're a home computer user. Computer buffs can now plug into advice from the experts with the "Home Medical Advisor". The new Window based IBM software written by Dr. Stephen Schueler. a physician Board Certified in emergency medicine and Director of the Emergency Room at Holmes Regional Medical Center in Melbourne, FL,

The "Home Medical Advisor" doesn't take the place of face-to-face treatment, but it can give you medical information at home, and helps you understand more about your health. And if the "Home Medical Advisor" eaves you one trip to the emergency room, it's more than paid for itself.

Easy-to-use on IBM-compatible computer, the computerized home reference begins with seven basic files -- Symptoms, Diseases, Injuries, Poisons, Drugs, Tests, and Health and Diet. Generating thousands of computer screens with over 600 color graphics, it provides detailed and understandable information of medical diagnoses, drug reactions and side effects, laboratory tests, injuries and poison information. Files display options, possible diagnoses to specified problems, what to do, and which specialist to see. "This program is a speedy way to find practical, up-to-date answers to your medical question," said Dr. Schueler. "The database essentially sends your computer to medical school and makes connections between diseases and symptoms, he added. "It's also a comprehensive reference for regular at-home use. While it doesn't replace regular check-ups or emergency care, it might save an unnecessary trip to the doctor by putting the right information at your fingertips."

The program took two years of researching and writing to develop, and will be updated every 8 months for registered users. Dr. Schueler added. "First aid reference books or home medical care guides go out of date very quickly. By updating our program regularly with new disks, we can stay current and topical. Your program is never too old to be useful."

The MS-DOS version of the program is already being used in numerous schools, hospitals, physician offices, and libraries and lists for $87.50. The new WINDOWS version lists for $99.99 but both are available direct from the manufacturer as a limited-time-offer for $69.95.

This program is a valuable reference and gives people a chance to ask health questions in their own environment and at their own pace." Dr. Schueler said. "It's also a chance to explore sensitive health questions or issues without embarrassment."

Pixel Perfect, 10460 S. Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, FL 32952

800-788-2099


Tornado Fighter Jet Simulation Game
SPECTRUM HOLOBYTE TO PUBLISH EUROPEAN FIGHTER JET SIMULATION

Famous Desert Storm Workhorse Tornado to See First-Quarter 1993 Release for IBM Compatibles

ALAMEDA, Calif., Dec. 11, 1992--Spectrum HoloByte, the leading developer and publisher of ultra-realistic flight simulations, is pleased to announce a first-quarter 1993 release of Tornado, based on the renowned British Aerospace multi-role fighter of the same name. For the first time, American flyers can experience the thrill of piloting this international fighter jet that saw extensive service during the Desert Storm conflict where it was praised for its outstanding low-flying strike capabilities. A sophisticated simulation model and stunning graphic detail top Tornado's long list of action-packed features and gameplay.

From cockpit to flight model, Tornado lets sim jocks enjoy the latest in leading-edge technology. In this two-seater jet--pilot, navigator--players fly sorties ranging from single-target attacks to multi-aircraft, multi-mission campaigns with a full arsenal of high-tech weaponry. The revolutionary 3-D modeling system used in Tornado presents 30,000 square miles of real-world landscapes with thousands of polygon-filled objects, rendered in 256-color VGA. The graphics are so detailed that one observer exclaimed he could "look out of the cockpit and see the mesh of fence surrounding a radar tower." Dozens of environmental effects include realistic clouds and haze; reviewers will take particular note of Tornado's alluring night mode.

Mission planning in Tornado promises to be one of the most accurate around. It includes a satellite overview of the airfield and the surrounding areas and lets players set such mission factors as waypoints, altitude and air speed; the computer provides times, fuel-use needs and a wide assortment of warnings.

Tornado will allow players to duke it out via modem or head-to-head play or fly joint missions via modem.

Tornado is being developed in Great Britain by Digital Integration who worked extensively with British Aerospace, the jet's manufacturer, to design the most accurate flight dynamics possible. Spectrum HoloByte is proud to count Tornado among its growing line of top-quality flight simulations.

Tornado is planned for a first-quarter 1993 release for IBM compatibles. No price has been established at this time.

Spectrum HoloByte, 2490 Mariner Square Loop, Alameda, CA 94501

510-522-3584;  fax: 510-522-3587


Thompson Chain HyperBible for Windows
New Software Division at B.B. Kirkbride Bible Company

Indianapolis, IN -- October 25, 1992 - Kirkbride Bible Company is pleased to announce their new software division, Kirkbride Technology. Recently, Kirkbride Technology assumed exclusive rights to market the successful Thompson Chain HyperBible program for Windows or Macintosh.

Formerly, Kirkbride Bible granted permission for Beacon Technology to author a software program based upon the Thompson Chain-Reference@) Study Bible. Beacon was also responsible for marketing and technical support. Under this new agreement, Kirkbride Technology has exclusive marketing rights, while Beacon Technology will be responsible for enhancing the software and offering technical support.

The Thompson Chain HyperBible is a "One Of A Kind" Bible study package that is making serious inroads into the growing Bible software market. It contains nearly all of the functions of the written Thompson Chain-Reference Study Bible plus the added benefits of computer speed and electronic word and topical searches.

Kirkbride also appointed Mark W. Smith to head its efforts as marketing director. Mr. Smith will oversee all marketing and distribution of the Thompson Chain HyperBible program utilizing various market channels. Mr. Smith graduated from Anderson University in 1980 with a degree in Marketing and Economics. Since that time he has been heavily involved in the development and marketing of computer products, and just previous to accepting the Kirkbride Technology position, he owned a software consulting company.

The Thompson Chain HyperBible program is available through numerous outlets for a suggested retail price of $149.00. For more information call 800/428-4385.

Kirkbride Technology

335 West 9th St, PO Box 606, Indianapolis, IN 46206-0606

317-633-1900;  fax: 317-633-1444


Metalsoft CAD/CAM Programming Software
METALSOFT INTRODUCES TWO SUPERSTARS IN CAD/CAM PROGRAMMING TECHNOLOGY

SANTA ANA CALIFORNIA--METALSOFT INC. announces the December release of its long-awaited revolutionary new CAD/CAM programming software systems as another step to increase productivity and improve quality in sheet metal fabrication. The all new version of FabriCAM, and its Microsoft Windows version FabriWIN received high praise from customers beta testing the products. METALSOFT eagerly anticipates releasing these systems as milestone advancements for sheet metal fabrication.

FabriCAM was completely rewritten using object oriented technology which allows greater flexibility, faster updates, fewer bugs, simpler maintenance and easier portability to other operating systems. Part development and sheet layout are combined in one section so parts can be changed after the sheet is laid out--without losing tooling or sequencing. So there's no waiting to transfer between programs. Punching and cutting programs are joined in one module for improved support of machine tools that offer both capabilities.

Offering the same benefits as the new FabriCAM, FabriWIN also operates within a graphical user interface that uses icons and pop-up windows. Choosing a function with an icon or pull-down menu is much faster than using DOS commands. The Microsoft Windows interface makes learning and operating any software system much easier. FabriWIN is the only Windows-based CAD/CAM software on the market for sheet metal fabrication.

In the near future, all METALSOFT products will be available using the user-friendly Windows graphical user interface. When METALSOFT's migration to Windows is complete, users can assemble and customize their systems as they wish.

Dedicated to increasing productivity and improving quality in sheet metal fabrication, the METALSOFT team constantly seeks innovative computer solutions. METALSOFT is committed to satisfying every customer and will continue to shape the future of the industry.

Metalsoft:  714-549-0112


State Modules Added to Bureaucratic Buddy Swr
ADDITIONAL STATE MODULES ADDED TO PRENTICE HALL'S BUREAUCRATIC BUDDY SOFTWARE

ATLANTA, December 16 -- Prentice Hall Professional Software has added additional state modules with magnetic media reporting capabilities to the latest version (3.03) of Bureaucratic Buddy. Bureaucratic Buddy is Prentice Hall's software that handles W-2, 1099, and other information returns for government filing by employers.

Six Additional States Added for State W-2 Magnetic Media Reporting

Bureaucratic Buddy now handles state W-2 magnetic media reporting requirements for six additional states: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Montana, South Carolina, and Virginia.

Bureaucratic Buddy also produces State W-2 magnetic media for the following states: Arkansas, California, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Utah, Wisconsin.

State Unemployment Magnetic Media Reporting Added for 12 States

The January release of Bureaucratic Buddy will add state unemployment magnetic media capability for these 12 states with special unemployment government reporting requirements: Alabama, Connecticut, Florida, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas.

Bureaucratic Buddy The software is available for IBM PC and compatible computers. Bureaucratic Buddy requires a hard disk, 440K RAM, and DOS 3.0 or higher. The base price of Bureaucratic Buddy is $149. Laser printing options are also available.

Prentice Hall Professional Software is the leading supplier of tax, accounting, audit, and real estate management software. It is a unit of the Software and Information Services Division, part of Simon & Schuster's Business and Professional Group. Simon & Schuster, a Paramount Communications company, is engaged in professional, consumer and educational publishing worldwide. Prentice Hall Professional Software can be contacted at P.O. Box 723597, Atlanta, GA 31139 or by telephone at (800) 241-3306, or (404) 432-1996 in Atlanta.


Notebook Computer CD-ROM Access
Notebook Computer CD-ROM Access: A Strategic Partnership Between Online Computer Systems Inc and Safari Systems

The Partnership:

Online has formed a strategic partnership with Safari Systems of Somerset, NJ, the notebook computer business unit of AT&T's NCR. The partnership will develop and promote portable computer access to CD-ROM databases.

Two Proof of Concept Applications:

Application 1:

Selected chapters from the NCR 3170 Technical Reference Manual have been published on CD-ROM with Online's powerful OPTI-WARE full-text retrieval software. The OPTI-WARE retrieval engine combines full-text searching with the retrieval and display of both text and illustrations from the NCR 3170 Technical Reference Manual.

Each NCR 3.5" CD-ROM kit will be shipped with a demo CD containing selected chapters of the NCR 3170 Technical Reference Manual. The 31/2" (8 cm) CD-ROM is read using the NCR 3170 31/2" CD-ROM drive, which fits into the unique NCR 3170 Expansion Manager. The Expansion Manager holds the NCR 3170 portable computer and provides pass through external serial, parallel, and power connection ports.

Application 2:

Online's OPTI-WARE retrieval software has been used to develop a Microsoft Windows based Illustrated Parts Catalog 3 1/2" demo database for use on the NCR 3170 notebook computer. Consisting of selected subcomponent illustrations accompanied by parts lists, the demo database was developed in cooperation with Safari Systems and Software Corporation of America. The database demonstrates an integrated parts identification and ordering application that takes advantage of the NCR 3170 Expansion Manager with built-in CD-ROM drive and RF modem. Service and repair technicians will benefit from this technology by using the portable computer to identify parts needed to make repairs. Then, using the RF modem and Software Corporation of America's communications software, they can link with a remote database containing parts inventory status and pricing information.

More on OPTI-WARE:

Online's OPTI-WARE software supports development of multi-platform retrieval applications for MS-DOS, Windows, Macintosh, OS/2, and UNIX systems. The OPTI-WARE search and retrieval system and custom user interface have been used to support companies since 1985 when CD-ROM drives became available. Over 200,000 systems using Online's OPTI-WARE technology have been fielded within major corporations and institutions, as well as used externally with Online's clients.

About Online:

Online Computer Systems, Inc., is a leader in solving electronic information delivery problems, specializing in applications requiring complex solutions and new technologies since 1979. A member of the Reed International group, Online's software product for client services include its OPTI-WARE database build and premastering systems, retrieval systems and custom user interfaces, and multimedia development services. Online's high performance commercial products include its family of market-leading OPTI-NET CD-ROM networking software featuring MS-DOS, VAP and newly released NLM versions; CD-ROM controllers; multi-drive optical storage units; and a variety of CD-ROM titles from leading publishers. Online provides its commercial products to OEMs, developers and distributors. Fortune 500 clients, such as Boeing, American Airlines, Whirlpool, IBM, Tandy, Matthew Bender, General Electric, Grolier Electronic Publishing, Northern Telecom, McGraw Hill, and GTE have come to Online to increase productivity and enhance access to information.

Demonstrations:

Demonstrations of Online's information delivery solutions can be conducted at our corporate headquarters (in the Washington metropolitan area) or in your own facilities.

For more information, contact Dennis McDonald at (301) 601-2226 or (800) 922-9204.

Online Computer Systems Inc

20251 Century Blvd, Germantown, MD 20874

301-428-3700;  800-922-9204;  301-428-2903


Apple Participates MACWORLD EXPO San Francisco
Apple Participates at MACWORLD EXPO/San Francisco '93

Keynote Speakers

Wednesday, January 6, 10:30-11:20 a.m., San Francisco Marriott

Ian Diery, Apple's Executive Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Marketing will discuss how Apple's imaging products link Apple's multiple businesses. In this context he will unveil a collection of new innovative imaging products.

Thursday, January 7, 10:30-11:20 a.m, San Francisco Marriott

Roger Heinen, Apple's Sr. Vice President and General Manager of the Macintosh Software Architecture Division will discuss Apple's system software strategy with a demonstration of the company's latest software technologies and innovative applications that take advantage of Apple's advanced software capabilities.

Apple Press Reception

Apple Computer, Inc. invites members of the press, and computer industry consultants to attend a private reception at the Apple Imaging New Products Showcase to view new Apple and third-party imaging products. Apple representatives and third party developers will be on hand to demonstrate products and answer questions.

When:      Wednesday, January 6, 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Where:     Moscone Center, Room 236-238

Refreshments will be served. Please bring your business card or press credentials.

Macintosh System Software Showcase

Apple Computer, Inc. invites members of the press to attend a press-only preview of Apple 19 Macintosh System Software. Apple representatives and third-party developers will be at the showcase demonstrating their latest applications using AppleScript, QuickDraw GX, AOCE and other emerging technologies.

When:      Wednesday, January 6, 5:00-9:00 p.m.

Where:     Moscone Center, Ballroom 102

Refreshments will be served. R.S.V.P. to Carrie Score at (408) 862-0012. Please bring your business card or press credentials.

Exposition

Apple Computer, Inc. will participate as an exhibitor at MACWORLD EXPO/San Francisco. Booth, #1215. Apple will highlight new Apple products, as well as the popular PowerBook and Performance lines, Macintosh desktop models and the latest in system software extensions such as QuickTime for Windows. Additionally, information on color imaging and publishing made easy on the Macintosh platform will be highlighted.

When:      January 6-8, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. and

           January 9, 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Where:     MACWORLD EXPO/San Francisco, Moscone Center,

           San Francisco, CA.

The following activities are for developers, educators and general MACWORLD EXPO attendees:

Apple Developer Activities

Apple Developer Technical Support Lab

Apple is hosting a technical support lab where Apple engineers from the Developer Technical Support group will be on hand to answer software development questions.

When:      January 6-8, 10:00 a.m 6:00 p.m.,

           January 9, 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Where:     Moscone Center, Room 234

Developer Central

Apple is hosting Developer Central, which will offer technical sessions on programming and customizing applications. Developers can also view development tools from Apple and other companies.

When:      January 6-8, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.,

           January 9, 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Where:     Moscone Center, Room 250

MacResource Center

Apple Computer and A+ Publishing will host this center for educators to discover the latest education software solutions.

When:      January 6-8, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.,

           January 9, 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.

Where:     Moscone Center, Room 131

Additional Apple Speakers at MACWORLD EXPO

Wednesday, January 6

2:30-3:20 p.m.    The Macintosh in the Law Office

5:00-5:50 p.m.    The Macintosh in Science

Thursday, January 7

2:30-3:20 p.m.    QuickTime Tips for Developers

4:00-4:50 p.m.    Digital Photography

                  The Macintosh in Real Estate

                  IAC, When to Use What

                  Internet Support

Friday, January 8

10:30-11:20 a.m.  New Horizons Conference

11:30-12:20 p.m.  Totally Awesome Multimedia

                  Mac/UNIX Workstations

                  Artificial Life

1:00-1:50 p.m.    The Photo CD Phenomenon

                  QuickTime for Educators

Apple Computer Inc, 20525 Mariana Ave, Cupertino, CA 95014

408-996-1010


CoSA After Effects for Prof. Special Effects
CoSA After Effects Ships

Professional Quality Special Effects and Animation Tool Featured at Macworld Expo/SF '93

(December 10, 1992) -- The release version of CoSA After Effects, a QuickTime application that gives users access to professional quality digital video special effects and animation on their Macintosh computers, will be shown by CoSA (The Company of Science & Art) at the Macworld Expo in San Francisco, January 6-9, 1993 (Booth #4356, Halls D & E). The product is still expected to ship by end of 1992.

"CoSA After Effects provides professionals with the power and flexibility they need to create high quality special effects," says CoSA President Bill O'Farrell. "In conjunction with the hardware becoming available today, CoSA After Effects significantly reduces the cost of digital video production."

CoSA After Effects lets users combine, layer and composite an unlimited number of movies in a single window and interactively add complex effects or transitions. The program immediately shows the outcome of the effect without having to render a new movie or muddle through bewildering dialogue boxes. In addition, CoSA After Effects takes full advantage of your hardware, allowing users to render professional quality movies.

CoSA After Effects lets users achieve all of the effects created with high-end production tools. With its unique, sophisticated interface, superior rendering capabilities and intelligent time management tools, the application makes professional quality effects a reality for QuickTime users.

CoSA After Effects will ship with a number of plug-in effects. CoSA will make its effects specification public so third-parties can write plug-ins. In addition, CoSA plans to create and sell new sets of effects regularly.

Other major features of CoSA After Effects include:

* Unlimited compositing and layering of movies

* Time-based filters and special effects

* Sub-pixel positioning for smooth motion

* Anti-aliasing for high-quality imaging

* Field rendering for professional quality video

* Hierarchial rendering chains to do away with the need

  to create intermediate movies

* Background rendering

* Support for large frame sizes

* Full 32-bit color support

* Scalable resolution

* Seamless text integration capabilities

CoSA After Effects opens up a new universe of possibilities to people who create all kinds of video presentations. Using CoSA After Effects, a creative director can easily sketch out a finished television commercial before going into post-production or doing on-line editing. A high school rock band can create a music video complete with effects found only in high-budget productions. A film producer can demonstrate his/her ideas visually, instead of simply describing them. Graphics professionals can easily use CoSA

After Effects for 2D animation.

CoSA After Effects will be shown in CoSA's booth (#4356) at Moscone Center in San Francisco during the Macworld Expo '93. Also, CoSA After Effects will be shown to the press by appointment at CoSA's hospitality suite at the San Francisco Marriott.

CoSA also markets the PACo' family of products. PACo (PICS Animation Compiler) is a platform-independent, software-only compression and playback system for presenting digital videos, animations, images and sound.

CoSA, 14 Imperial Place, Suite 203, Providence, RI 02903

(401) 831-2672;   Fax (401) 831-2675.


Sun Microsystems Combines SunSelect & Sitka
SUN MICROSYSTEMS, INC. COMBINES SUNSELECT AND SITKA CORPORATION

Combined Business Unit Integrates Complementary PC Networking Product Lines; Operates Under SunSelect Name

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--December 15, 1992--Sun Microsystems, Inc. today announced that it intends to compete more aggressively in the PC networking market by combining the operations of two of its businesses: SunSelect and Sitka Corporation. The combined business unit integrates SunSelect's open, client-server networking and emulation product families with peer-to-peer and mobile networking product lines from Sitka.

"Peer-to-peer, client-server, and mobile networking are among the fastest growing PC networking segments today," said Scott McNealy, chairman and chief executive officer of Sun Microsystems, Inc. "Combining the two business units makes SunSelect extremely competitive against leading PC networking vendors in all three areas."

The worldwide operations of the combined business will be headquartered in Chelmsford, Mass., with additional offices in Alameda, Calif., Bagshot, U.K., and Tokyo, Japan. The integrated enterprise will carry the SunSelect name and will be directed by Carl S. Ledbetter, vice president of Sun Microsystems, Inc. and general manager of SunSelect. Sitka products will continue to be sold and supported through existing Sitka channels. The integrated SunSelect is committed to the established strategic business relationships of both companies, and will continue the level of service and support that customers have come to expect. The transition is scheduled to take effect on December 28, 1992.

"By combining the two business units, Sun now offers customers a broader range of solutions for their PC networking needs--all from a single source," said Carl S. Ledbetter. "Today's announcement also means that SunSelect now offers customers the combined service and support capabilities of two strongly service oriented businesses."

"This is an exciting development since both companies are committed to providing open, cross-platform solutions," said Deborah Triant, president and CEO of Sitka Corporation. "Together, we can offer users a powerful way to maximize resources regardless of platform or operating environment."

The Combined Product Family

The Sitka product line provides cross-platform peer-to-peer networking, and connectivity products for mobile and pen-based computer users. The Sitka products, SitkaTOPS, PenTOPS, PenCentral, and Sitka 10NET, make it easy for computer users on different computer platforms to share resources with other systems on a network. The combined SitkaTOPS and 10NET installed base exceeds one million nodes.

SunSelect's products complement the Sitka line by adding powerful alternatives for integrating PCs into open network environments. With one million installed nodes, SunSelect's PC-NFS software is now the industry's most widely used PC-to-enterprise networking solution. SunSelect also markets NetWare SunLink software, which integrates the most popular LAN with the industry's leading workstations, and SunPC software and hardware acceleration products for running MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows applications on SPARC workstations.

About Sun Microsystems, Inc.

Sun Microsystems, Inc., founded in 1982 and headquartered in Mountain View, Calif., is a multi-billion dollar corporation doing business worldwide. Sun is a leading worldwide supplier of network-based distributed computing solutions, including professional workstations, servers, and UNIX operating system and productivity software. SunSelect is the business unit of Sun Microsystems, Inc. dedicated to integrating personal computing resources into open network environments.

Sun Microsystems, 2550 Garcia Ave, Mountain View, CA 94043

415-960-1300,  fax: 415-969-9131


ChemVISION for Windows Release 2.0
MOLECULAR ARTS CORPORATION ANNOUNCES NEW RELEASE OF 3D MOLECULAR VISUALIZATION TOOL

Anaheim, California, December 15, 1992--Molecular Arts Corporation (MAC), has announced today the availability of chemVISION for Windows (Release 2.0), a PC software tool for 3D molecular visualization. It offers sophisticated 3D rendering and chemical query capabilities designed specifically for researchers, scientists, engineers, academics, and students in the chemistry field. With chemVISION chemists can easily tap into 3D chemical structure databases; display and render molecular structures in three dimensions, rotate and scale molecules in 3D space, examine and make expert queries of their molecule, illustrate their research documentation with beautiful 3D graphics, share research results with colleagues, and produce presentation-quality output.

Molecular Arts Corporation's Vice-President of Marketing, Laura Voyles says of the new product "chemVISION is a research tool that provides scientists tremendous capabilities in visualizing the structure of complex molecules they encounter in their chemical research activities. Chemists struggle daily with representing their research (on 3D molecules) in 2D formats." She went on to say, "What makes it so exciting is that chemVISION provides 3D visualization tools in an affordable desktop package. With chemVISION, scientists can visualize their work, make specific chemistry-related queries, and present their findings to their peers quickly and easily."

Graphical User Interface

By utilizing the popular Microsoft Windows graphical user interface (GUI), chemVISION takes full advantage of this intuitive working environment, making chemVISION easy to learn and use. Additionally, by integrating all the necessary visualization tools under a single user interface, chem VISION saves scientists time and money.

Tool Enhancements

This release of chem VISION marks the introduction of several new or upgraded capabilities:

chemREAD-3D: Import/export of 3D molecular structure files. Translate data into different formats. Enhancement - Support for Brookhaven Protein DataBank file format added

SELECT-3D: Expert molecular substructure identifier and selector. Enhancement - Additional query and identification capabilities added.

User Interface: Menu Driven interface fully supports Windows protocols. Enhancement - New Windows Common Dialogs and Hot Keys added.

chemGRFX: Sophisticated handling of Vector and Raster-based molecular graphic images. Supports both image import and export via graphics files and the Windows Clipboard. Enhancement - Support added for an additional 12 common graphics file formats.

VISAGE-3D: Molecular rendering tools, utilizing advanced techniques previously found only on expensive 3D graphics workstations. Enhancement - Additional molecule shading options plus improved graphic printing support.

When added to the popular chemVISION program, these new features provide chemists with an unparalleled set of capabilities for examining 3D molecular structures in an affordable desk-top package.

Product Features

Users may read in 3D structure models from many popular and increasingly available third-party database or modeling programs.

Included in chemVISION is a full suite of rendering tools: the VISAGE-3D tool set, enabling chemists to create exactly the look they need to illustrate important research issues. VISAGE-3D includes a full complement of 3D rendering styles (wire frame, ball-n-stick, space fill, and cylinder) which can be mixed together on the same molecule. Support is also included for advanced 3D graphics including: depth cueing, shading, perspective, and stereo images. When used with the SELECT-3D substructure selection tools, chemists can rapidly modify their computer models to suit their documentation needs.

And chemists can use the ZOOMIN magnifying glass tool for highlighting important aspects of complex 3D structures.

The TAGIT-3D tools allow the user to identify and tag important structural and chemical attributes of 3D models. Tags are attached to 3D structures so that they travel together in 3D space if the user decides to reorient his structure. In this manner, important features of complex structures will always be readily apparent to even casual observers.

With chem VISION, users also have access to super display graphics with: real time 3D transformations (translate, rotate, and zoom), multiple dial devices, and support for high-resolution graphics display cards. By supporting the popular VGA and SuperVGA graphics standards, display quality rivaling 3D superworkstations is possible without the expense of a workstation.

Users also have access to quality hardcopy output provided with support for Hewlett-Packard laser printers, color printers, PostScript devices, HP plotters - virtually all Windows-compatible output devices. Chemists can create everything from slides and transparencies to oversized posters, lab notebook annotations, and paper-based documentation.

Availability

The commercial release of chem VISION (V2.0) is concurrent with this announcement. A single-user industrial license is available for $299. This release will operate on IBM PC's and PC-compatibles that support Microsoft Windows 3.x. Included is a 90 day money-back guarantee and FREE technical support for the first 3 months of ownership. Extended Support Plans are available.

Molecular Arts Corp, 1532 East Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92805

714-634-8100,  fax: 714-634-1999


Retire ASAP, Retirement Planning Software
Retire ASAP, Version 1.1

Suggested Retail - $99

Orders/Brochures by Mail or Phone

Retirement Planning software for Baby Boomers: Now Prints reports

Kirkland, WA - Calypso Software announces an updated version of Retire ASAP - Version 1.1. A report-printing option is the key new feature.

Retire ASAP is PC-compatible software that calculates "retirement planning for BabyBoomers." It was designed by Financial Planners for the home computer market.

The print-out capability was added in response to demand by customers, who wanted to have a "hard copy" version of the program's information. The printouts facilitate discussing plans with family, financial professionals, and/or benefits departments.

Report-printing Description

The Retire ASAP reports summarize all the information that's been entered and calculated in the software. These personalized reports show estimated amounts of:

* Year-by-year required savings, to help the user meet

  his or her retirement income goal,

* Allowable tax-deferred savings, based on income and legal

  limits,

* Retirement investments - values today and at retirement,

* Employer plans, such as 401(k)s - values today and at

  retirement,

* Investment mixes (Actual and Proposed).

Why retirement-planning software?

Due to the 90's economy - and the aging of Baby Boomers - retirement planning is a "hot" topic. Retire ASAP shows how retirement finances will be affected by: Social Security, inflation, growth rates, investments, employer plans, and the like. Experimenting is available through a "What If...?" feature.

Retire ASAP provides a detailed retirement-planning analysis, including amounts to save, concepts to consider, and the next steps to take. The software is aimed at the computer or financial novice, age 30 - 60.

"We developed Retire ASAP to provide consumers with unbiased information," says Beth Kernan, founder and president of Calypso Software. "Retire ASAP helps people understand how to plan for a financially secure retirement."

Calypso Software Corp, 123 Lake Street S, Kirkland, WA 98033

800-225-8246


Record SPA Excellence in Swr Award Nominations
A Record 64% Increase in Product Nominations for SPA Excellence in Software Awards

Annual Awards Ceremony to be held at SPA Conference

December 21, 1992 (Washington, DC) - The Software Publishers Association (SPA) today announced a record number of nominees for their 1993 SPA Excellence in Software Awards. 521 product nominations were received for the 25 industry awards recognizing outstanding PC software products introduced in 1992. The nominations represent 361 products from 182 different software companies. The award winners will be chosen in two rounds of balloting by members' peers in the software publishing community, truly making the Awards "the Oscars of the personal computer software world."

The annual awards ceremony will be presented in San Diego the evening of March 4, 1993, during the SPA's Annual Spring Symposium. Comedienne Paula Poundstone will preside over the black-tie ceremony to be attended by more than 1200 software industry executives.

"The 64% increase in product nominations shows that 1992 was a banner year for new software products," commented Ken Wasch, Executive Director of the SPA. "Given the increased competition, winners of this coveted award can be that much more proud of their achievement."

The Excellence is Software Awards recognize outstanding software programs in consumer, business and education categories. These programs are judged by the SPA membership on a number of criteria including interface, utility and creativity.

Of the three major software categories, consumer software encompasses programs best known to the general consumer-using public. Here, awards are given to: Best Action/Arcade Program, Best Entertainment Program, Best Fantasy Role Playing/Adventure Program, Best Personal Productivity Program, Best Creativity Program, Best Simulation Program, Best Sports Program, and the Best Strategy Program.

The Software Publishers Association is the principal trade association of the PC software industry. Its 1,000 members represent business, consumer, and education software firms around the world. The SPA has offices in Washington, DC, and Paris, France.

Software publishers Association

1730 M St, Northwest, Suite 700, Washington, D.C. 20036

202-452-1600,  Fax: 202-223-8756


Clarion Personal Manager
Clarion Software Corporation Announces Clarion Personal Manager

December 21, 1992 -- POMPANO BEACH, Florida - Clarion Software Corporation has just released, and is now shipping Clarion Personal Manager. This new product includes the tools based on the engine of Clarion Personal Developer, a best-selling application development tool for PC novices and non-programmers. With 20 ready-to-run programs that handle a wide range of common information management tasks, Clarion Persona-i Manager gives users the capability to organize their home or office instantly-at an affordable price.

Clarion Personal Manager's ready-made programs turn paperwork into wrll-organized, automated information sources that fulfill a variety of common home and office needs. Users can choose from sample applications that include an address/phone directory, electronic checkbook, home inventory keeper, order processer, project coordinator, sales tracker, and time accounting.

In addition, the package contains ail the tools needed to modify these programs or create brand new ones. This allows users to add their own personal touch, so programs have their own "look" and "feel." These programs can be copied and distributed free, with no royalty fees or licenses.

Clarion Personal Manager, which will be available for only $99 (suggested retail price), provides users with a complete application development package for under $100. "Clarion Personal Manager offers users a fantastic selection of tools at an increadible price-20 professionally written, ready-made solutions along with the power to create unlimited, new customized programs," says Bruce Barrington, Clarion Software Corporation's Chairman/CEO. "With the programming tools alone valued at $295, this is dearly a value-added product."

Clarion Personal Manager runs on any IBM PC, PS/2, or true compatible with 512KB of memory, a hard disk and DOS 2.1 or higher. it is upwardly compatible with Clarion Professional Developer Version 2.1, and Clarion ReportWriter, a tool for creating customized ad-hoc reports and queries.

Based in Pompano Beach, Florida, and founded Tn 1982, Clarion Software's line of products include Clarion Professional Developer, Clarion ReportWriter, and the TopSpeed- family of compilers and related products. Sales Inquiries should be directed to: 150 East Sample Road, Pompano Beach, FL 33064; 305/7854555 or 800/354 5444.


Vibrational Modes Examines Molecular Motion
Vibrational Modes Examines Molecular Motion to Detect Absorption or Scattering

Physics Academic Software Releases VIBRATIONAL MODES

December 18, 1992--VIBRATIONAL MODES simulates the vibrations of symmetric and linear asymmetric triatomic molecules, demonstrating various underlying concepts of molecular spectroscopy and chemical kinetics.

Developed by Daniel Lacks, Harvard University, VIBRATIONAL MODES enables you to identify spectroscopically active modes and determine whether infrared absorption or Raman scattering will occur by observing the vibrational motion. You can choose the atomic masses, molecular geometry, and force constants in either the central force field model or the valence force field model for the simulations and view the resulting modes singularly or in a linear combination. The program will calculate and display the normal modes of vibration and the frequencies.

Vibrational modes play an important role in fields of study such as molecular spectroscopy. The transfer of energy into the vibrational modes of a molecule that causes either infrared absorption or Raman scattering, depending on the symmetry of the atomic motion of the molecule. "By viewing the motions of the atoms using VIBRATIONAL MODES," says Lacks, "you can determine their symmetrics and thus determine which modes can be detected with infrared absorption or Raman scattering."

VIBRATIONAL MODES is ideal for courses in molecular physics, physical chemistry, and classical mechanics. It exceeds the inherent restrictions of textbooks and lectures by allowing the user to actually see the ongoing motion. The user's manual includes a description of the physics and the computational methods used in the program, a tutorial to orient the user to the program, operating instructions, and student exercises.

Reviewer response to VIBRATIONAL MODES has been positive. "Easy to manipulate, clear, and concise," says Gary Bender, Tanana Middle School. "The program provides an excellent conceptual framework and visualization." David Blackman, UC Berkeley, says, "VIBRATIONAL MODES is hypnotic."

VIBRATIONAL MODES is published and distributed by Physics Academic Software, which is a project of the American Institute of Physics in cooperation with the American Physical Society and the American Association of Physics Teachers as part of a continuing series of educational software from PAS.

VIBRATIONAL MODES operates on any Macintosh Plus computer or later with finder version 6.0 or higher and system software version 6.0 or higher. A printer is recommended.

VIBRATIONAL MODES may be purchased from Physics Academic Software for $24.95 plus $3.50 shipping and handling for the first package ($7.50 foreign) and $.75 for each additional package. Lab Packs, which include ten copies of the software and one User's Manual, are available for $99.95.

For a limited time, you can purchase the entire PAS collection, with or without Lab Packs, and save up to 33% off the regular price. Physics Academic Software offers a no-risk guarantee by providing a full refund for packages returned within 30 days.

PAS also offers a Standing Order Plan, which brings the latest in innovative physics courseware to your door, along with exceptional savings. When you join the Standing Order Plan, you will automatically receive each new PAS program, with or without Lab Packs, and save up to 33% off the list price.

Orders and requests for a free catalog of all Physics Academic Software titles should be directed to The Academic Software Library, Campus Box 8202, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695-8202. By telephone, call (800) 955-TASL or (919) 515-7447; FAX (919) 515-2682.


Approach 2.0 for Windows Introduced in Europe
Approach Software Corporation Introduces Approach 2.0 for Windows in Europe; Is an Instant Bestseller in the UK

REDWOOD CITY, Calif., December 18, 1992--Approach Software Corporation today announced availability of fully localized French and German versions of Approach 2. Of or Windows. Approach Software has also released international versions in Holland, Belgium, Norway and Denmark.

Meanwhile, the UK version, which shipped early last month, has already matched the success of the domestic version of Approach for Windows, which became bestseller in the U. S. In the UK, Approach for Windows achieved the number one position for best-selling database in the Ingram Micro's Bestseller List. In November 1992, Approach outsold Borland's dBASE and Paradox in the UK.

"We are absolutely delighted with sales of Approach 2.0 for Windows" said Alistair Handyside, Commercial Vice President at Ingram Micro. "It is very exciting to have a newcomer enter the market which truly fulfills end user requirements," he added.

"Our success in the UK indicates the explosive demand for a relational database easy enough for even first-time users," said Kevin Harvey, President of Approach Software. "We look forward to similar success throughout Europe."

"Approach 2.0 for Windows has generated tremendous interest in Europe," said Jamie Rapperport, Approach Software's Managing Director for Europe, "and we felt it was critical to develop top-quality, fully localized versions of the product as quickly as possible. Accordingly, we have invested aggressively in our European operations."

The localized and international versions of Approach 2.0 for Windows include a host of features implemented for the global market, including European date and number formatting options (including currency), metric rulers, OEM to ANSI character conversions and support for local mailing labels.

Approach 2.0 for Windows was released on October 12, 1992 in the United States and Canada. The UK version of Approach shipped November 9, 1992 and French and German versions shipped on November 30th.

Approach for Windows Background

Approach for Windows is an end user database, designed to make managing and reporting on information easy for even database novices. Because of its breakthrough ease of use, Approach for Windows rocketed onto bestseller lists shortly after shipping in March 1992. Easy, relational and very fast, Approach for Windows is also 100% compatible with dBASE, Paradox, FoxPro, Oracle SQL, SQL Server and DB2. Approach has won many prestigious awards -- including "Best Software" at COMDEX/Spring 1992 from BYTE Magazine.

Approach Software Corporation

Approach Software Corporation headquartered in Redwood City, California, was founded with the objective of making database power accessible to a broad range of business professionals. Approach Software Corporation European headquarters are located in Munich, Germany with an additional office in London, England.

Approach Software, 311 Penobscot Dr, Redwood City, CA 94063

415-306-7890;  Fax: 415-368-5182


AST PowerExec EL Notebook for Mobile Computing
AST RESEARCH STRENGTHENS COMMITMENT TO MOBILE COMPUTING WITH NEW POWEREXEC EL NOTEBOOK COMPUTERS

PCMCIA Slot and Upgradeable Display Equip $1,745 Notebook to Surpass Compaq Contura

IRVINE, Calif., December 21, 1992 -- Optimizing the overwhelming success of its high-quality, feature-rich PowerExec product family, AST Research Inc., the pioneer in upgradeable personal computers, today announced the PowerExec EL notebook computer value priced at a suggested list price of $1,745.

Based on the award-winning design of the PowerExec 3/25SL, the PowerExec EL notebook computer sports the popular features of the AST PowerExec family unveiled on September 21. It combines exceptional 25-MHz 386SL performance, hard drive upgradeability and intelligent power management to provide the ultimate usability in a portable lightweight design.

"Key features found in the PowerExec product family are not sacrificed in the new PowerExec EL, even with its highly competitive pricing," said Dan Sheppard, director of protable systems. "The same high-quality features, such as our bright 9.5-inch LCD screen, Intelligent Power Management technology and removable upgradeable hard drive, are integrated into this full-function notebook.

"The PowerExec EL meets the competition head-on, with sollid-performance that surpasses the Compaq Contura, Dell NL25 and IBM ThinkPad 300. Many of our competitors have announced products with significantly fewer features and less functionality."

Powered by the Intel 25-MHz 386SL microprocessor, the new PowerExec EL was designed to make notebook computing hassle-free for office-to-home end users and business travelers who require a cost-effective fully-functional notebook that provides unsurpassed ease of use and increased productivity. These end users' computing needs include business applications such as word processing, communications and personal productivity.

The PowerExec EL is available in two models. Both models come standard with a 3.5-inch diskette drive and DOS 5.0. The Model 63, with a 60-MB hard drive and 2MB of RAM (expandable to 20MB) has a $1,745 list price. The Model 123/W, featuring a 120-MB hard drive, 4MB of RAM, Windows 3.1 and AST's SmartPoint cableless trackball retails for $2,295. Street pricing will vary.

Weighing just 5.9 pounds -- one of the lightest notebooks in its class -- the PowerExec EL comes standard with a NiCad battery that provides 3 to 4 hours of battery life on a single charge. The PowerExec EL is user upgradeable to a nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery for a retail price of $199.

The PowerExec EL uses heuristic algorithms to monitor the user's work habits to learn when to power-off-idle peripherals, conserving battery life. Whenever there is keyboard inactivity, hard disk drive and display "time outs" are activated. The system goes back to full-power mode once work resumes. The PowerExec EL is the only notebook computer capable of automatically adjusting its performance based upon what it has learned allowing the user to achieve a longer battery life than comparable 386-based notebooks.

Renowned for designing computing solutions that answer end users' ever-changing needs, AST designed the PowerExec EL with a 9.5-inch monochrome LCD display easily upgradeable to either a 9.5-inch F-STN passive matrix color or 9.5-inch TFT Active Matrix color.

The PowerExec EL's removable hard drive allows the end user to easily upgrade the system to a larger hard drive when necessary. The benefit of added security by removing and storing the hard drive, as well as the flexibility of unlimited storage capacity by using multiple hard drives to store software programs and data are provided to enhance the PowerExec EL's usability.

Equipped with a one-touch AST SmartPoint cableless trackball, the PowerExec EL Model 123/VV. comes conveniently preinstalled with Microsoft Windows 3.1 and MSDOS 5.0. for end users who want a "plug and play" solution for instant productivity.

"AST introduced its first notebook computer, the award-winning Premium Exec, two years ago and according to StoreBoard, has already achieved the third largest market share in 386 notebooks," said David Roberts, president, Retail Data, an authorized AST reseller. "AST's hallmark has been designing high quality, reliable, affordably-priced computers and, with the introduction of the PowerExec notebooks, they are continuing that tradition."

"To come out of nowhere with an award-winning notebook and leverage what we do best -- provide technologically strong computing solutions at a price point for mainstream computer users --illustrates our commitment to product excellence ," said Sheppard. "The market acceptance of AST notebooks in such a short time illustrates the end user's confidence in AST's reputation for quality. And the PowerExec EL exemplifies the strong commitment AST has made to mobile computing."

The PowerExec EL is made in the United States at AST's manufacturing headquarters in Fountain Valley, California.

Standard Features for the PowerExec EL

The PowerExec EL incorporates all the standard features that demonstrate AST's commitment to quality, reliability and compatibility. All PowerExec EL notebooks come standard with a parallel port, a serial port, a VGA monitor port, a PS/2 mouse port and a port for an optional 17-key keypad or 101-key enhanced keyboard adapter. It features AST's award-winning full-function 82-key keyboard with 3mm key travel, 12 dedicated function keys and eight dedicated cursor control keys.

The PowerExec EL features a Type II PCMCIA expansion slot. PCMCIA is the new industry standard for portable computer expansion and connectivity solutions which opens up the architecture of the notebook computer and offers innovative options not offered with proprietary expansion slots. Similar to desktop ISA boards, PCMCIA credit card-sized cards offer a variety of options to allow end users to customize their PowerExec EL. AST offers PCMCIA compatible networking options including Token Ring and Ethernet, as well as a SCSI adapter and three modem options. These cards can be swapped in and out while the system is on.

Demand for AST products remain at an all time high. The PowerExec EL will be distributed through traditional channels, including VARs, dealers and distributors.

AST is also offering an optional EasyPort, quick-connect port replicator for the PowerExec EL, a device that allows users to make an easy transition from notebook to desktop. The EasyPort can be connected to peripherals, networks and other communications devices. These connections can be left in place when the user takes the unit on the road. With an affordable suggested list price of $99, the EasyPort replicates the ports of the PowerExec enabling quick-connect functionality without the need to hookup individual power and port cables.

The PowerStation docking unit offers a complete desktop connectivity solution for mobile professionals who require the ease-of-use of one computer. Affordably priced at $449, the PowerStation combines the flexibility of notebook computing with the familiarity of traditional desktop computing.

The PowerStation features two ISA I 6-bit slots and provides access to one half-height 5.25-inch drive bay and one slimline 5.25-inch drive bay for extra storage, as well as a drive bay with a tape backup device. The PowerStation features a monitor stand that can accommodate high-resolution monitors weighing up to 70 pounds.

The PowerExec is designed to support the Kensington Microware cable lock for added physical security.

Service and Support

The AST PowerExec EL notebook comes with a one-year warranty and for a small fee the end user can purchase AST's optional ExeCare which provides 48-hour repair upon receipt at AST . AST will pay the freight both ways.

All AST notebook computer systems include a one-year parts and labor warranty. AST has 11,000 trained service technicians in more that 1,200 Authorized Service Centers nationwide. Toll-free customer service is 90 seconds away (average telephone call response time) Monday thru Friday from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. (PDT) and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.

AST On-Line!, the largest worldwide PC manufacturing electronic bulletin board service in the industry, provides a 24-hour electronic reference library. AST Info-Fax provides up-to-date technical information sent directly to fax machines through an automated 24-hour service.

AST's product lines include the Power Premium, Bravo, Advantage!, Manhattan and PowerExec 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.

Corporate Background

Recently ranked number 431 on the Fortune 500 list of America's largest industrial companies and 451 on the Forbes Profit List. AST Research Inc. is an information technology company holding a prominent market share position for desktop, file server and notebook computers.

The company reported record sales of $286.4 million for the first quarter of fiscal year 1993, ended Oct. 3, 1992, representing a 70 percent increase in shipments over the comparable prior year quarter. Fiscal year 1992 revenues were $944 1 million, compared to sales of $688.5 million for fiscal year 1991.

AST Research corporate headquarters is located at 16215 Alton Parkway, P.O. Box 19658, Irvine, Calif. 92713-9658. Telephone: (714) 727-4141, (800) 876-4278. Fax: (714) 727-9355.


AutoDESK Ships New IGES Translator
AUTODESK SHIPS NEW IGES TRANSLATOR FOR AutoCAD RELEASE 12

MILFORD, Ohio, November 10, 1992 - Autodesk, the leading CAD software company, announced today that before the end of November it will be shipping a new AutoCAD IGES Translator, which supports IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) 5.1. An English-language version will be available in North and South America through Authorized AutoCAD Dealers and Distributors for a suggested retail price of US$1200. The new Translator dramatically improves the quality of data transfer between AutoCAD software and other CAD systems, and can be used with either the Sun SPARCstation or DOS 386 version of AutoCAD Release 12.

The new AutoCAD IGES Translator was developed in conjunction with International TechneGroup Incorporated (ITI) and is based on ITl's IGES/Lib software development tool kit. ITI is internationally known for its data exchange expertise in the development of IGES translators and IGES "flavoring" software. The use of IGES/Lib provides an effective migration path to the STEP standard as it becomes available.

"This is a world class translator, one with greatly increased functionality, accuracy, and flexibility" said Len Rand, vice president of Autodesk's Design Automation Group. "In today's complex design and engineering environments, it allows suppliers and contractors to efficiently exchange data and speed the design process. Within companies, it also allows workgroups to employ AutoCAD as part of an overall concurrent engineering program, where communication of design and manufacturing data across departments and disciplines is crucial. And, for many of our customers, it eliminates the need to use several direct translators, recreate geometry unnecessarily, or laboriously convert a 3D model into a series of separate 2D views before translating - a process that can literally take days."

"IGES is the established standard for transferring CAD/CAM data today," stated Don Hemmelgarn, vice president and director of ITl's Product Data Exchange Business. "AutoCAD customers now have complete, production-worthy IGES translation capabilities unlike anything they have seen in the past. The new translator dramatically improves data exchange with workstation and mainframe CAD systems."

Predefined options sets are provided as baseline or default settings for use with CATIA and CALS classes I (Technical Illustration), 11 (Engineering Drawings), and IV (Manufacturing) - additional options sets tailored for other CAD vendor products will be made available in the future. The Translator can export and import CALS-compliant class 1, 11, and IV files and drawings. (To export CALS-compliant files, customers must adhere to CALS regulations in the formulation of drawings and use the provided option sets.)

In addition, the Translator offers:

* Improved translation of curve and surface approximations

  to user-definable tolerances

* GUI (Graphical User Interface) dialogue-box control of

  options and option set creation and management

* Single- or batch-file processing

* Support for import of multiple drawings per file

* Audit trail (log-file reporting)

* Support for perspective and rotated views

* On-line help

ITI is recognized as the international leader providing Concurrent Product and Manufacturing Process Development (CP/PD) services and related software products. CP/PD is more than another acronym for concurrent engineering or simultaneous engineering. CP/PD is the "next generation" capability that will differentiate 21st century manufacturing winners from losers. By focusing on parallel team development processes, integrated computer systems and lean implementation strategies through the entire product and manufacturing process development life cycle, clients are implementing shorter development cycles (shorter time to market), while achieving world class product quality and cost. The iTI Family of Companies multi-platform software products, consulting, engineering and educational services provide clients with a full range and depth of technical knowledge and experience, unsurpassed by any known global competitor.

Autodesk develops, markets, and supports a family of computer-aided design, engineering, multimedia, and scientific software products for desktop computers and workstations. Autodesk shares are traded on NASDAQ under the symbol ACAD. For more information, please call 415-332-2344 or type GO ADESK on CompuServe. Canadian and other international prices for Autodesk products and upgrades may vary. To obtain the name of the nearest Authorized AutoCAD Dealer in the United States, call 800-964-6432.

International TechneGroup, 5303 DuPont Circle, Milford, OH 45150

513-576-3900


Ascend Personal Information Management Swr
Franklin Quest Co. Introduces Ascend for Macintosh

Salt Lake City, Utah; October 20, 1992--Franklin Quest Co. (NYSE:FNQ) has released a version of Ascend, their personal information management software, for the Macintosh line of computers. Prior to this development, Ascend was available only for PCs using Microsoft Windows.

Franklin Quest Co., a leader in time management consulting, trains over 20,000 individuals and executives every month in time management. Over one million men and women currently use the Franklin Day Planner system, and over 2,000 corporations such as Apple Computer, British Caledonia, Dow Chemical, General Electric, General Motors, Honda, Hughes, Merrill Lynch, and TRW are ongoing clients of Franklin's productivity seminars.

The Franklin system has now been coupled with the power of the Macintosh computer in a PIM (Personal Information Manager) called Ascend.

Ascend consists of 12 different modules to handle tasks, appointments, notes, contacts, filing, goals, projects, etc. Ascend even has a module for storing and retrieving your favorite literary quotes.

All of Ascend's modules follow the time management techniques taught by Franklin Quest Co. Ascend can print task lists, calendars, and other information directly onto Franklin Day Planner pages or onto blank 8 1/2" x 11" paper.

The suggested list price for Ascend is $199.

Franklin Quest Co.

2550 South Decker Lake Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84119

801-975-9992;  800-877-1814;  Fax: 801-975-9995


Ascend for Windows Personal Info Management Swr
Franklin Quest Co. Introduces New Version of Ascend for Windows

Salt Lake City, Utah; October 20, 1992--Franklin Quest Co. (NYSE:FNQ) has released a new version of their personal information management (PIM) software, Ascend for Windows.

The new version 4.0 of Ascend now integrates Contact Management capabilities into the existing PIM features of Ascend. Other new features include support for Object Linking and Embedding (OLE), Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE), and enhanced printing and forms support, such as activity summary reports and monthly calendars.

Ascend 4.0 adds a floating, customizable tool bar and font control for notes. The global searching features of Ascend have also been enhanced considerably.

Ascend 4.0 also introduces "Sound Notes." Sound Notes allow you to actually embed recorded voice notes to tasks, appointments, and notes by using the microphone of multimedia equipped PCs. "We recognized that it would be much easier and quicker to capture the main points of a phone call using the recording features of Sound Notes than typing or writing the information," said Kevin Carmony, vice president of Franklin's Technology Division. "Ascend is the first PIM or contact manager to introduce this innovative feature."

Recognizing the expanding role of workgroup computing, Ascend 4.0 supports E-mail facilities with Microsoft Mail and Microsoft's new Windows for Workgroups.

In order to make Ascend compatible with the new line of pen computers now flooding the market, Ascend 4.0 supports Windows for Pen Computing and has many new pen centric features such as freehand drawing, annotation, and gesture recognition.

Franklin has also just introduced a version of Ascend for the Macintosh computer.

Ascend is developed and marketed by Franklin Quest Co., a leading provider of training seminars and products designed to improve individual productivity through effective time management. Over one million individuals currently use the Franklin Day Planner system.

The suggested list price for Ascend is $199.

Franklin Quest Co.

2550 South Decker Lake Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84119

801-975-9992;  800-877-1814;  Fax: 801-975-9995


IBM Agreement with Franklin Quest for Ascend
IBM Enters Agreement with Franklin Quest Co. for Ascend Software

Salt Lake City, Utah; October 19, 1992--Franklin Quest Co. (NYSE:FNQ) announced today an agreement with IBM (NYSE: IBM) for packaging Franklin's Ascend software on IBM PS/note Computers.

Ascend is a personal information and contact manager for the Windows environment. Ascend is developed and marketed by Franklin Quest Co., a leading provider of training seminars and products designed to improve individual productivity through effective time management. Over one million individuals currently use the Franklin paper-based Day Planner System.

IBM will be shipping several thousand copies of Ascend on their new PS/note notebook computers.

"We ' re very excited about this relationship with IBM, " said Kevin Carmony, Franklin's Vice President of Technology. "We obviously are very pleased to see our software on IBM's quality systems. We see many opportunities for both companies arising from this arrangement."

Franklin Quest Co.

2550 South Decker Lake Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84119

801-975-9992;  800-877-1814;  Fax: 801-975-9995


ADev Introduces & Integrates PRO-PLANT/STEEL
ADev Introduces And Integrates PRO-PLANT/STEEL

ADev's new AutoCAD-based software package for plant arrangements and intelligent background steel works inside ADev's 2D and 3D piping design package.

Metairie, LA (January 1992)--Applications Development, Inc. (ADev) has introduced a powerful new software module to supplement its PRO-SERIES family of software for AutoCAD-based plant design. This new release speeds drafting and generation of reports for plant and equipment arrangements, as well as for intelligent 2D or 3D background steel.

It can be used inside PRO-PIPE, ADev's 2D and 3D piping design package, to increase the accuracy of pipe placement. It can also be used alone to create site plans and structural steel layouts.

Similar to the functionality in ADev's popular PRO-PIPE, this new release of PRO-PLANT/STEEL takes advantage of AutoCAD's extended entity data (x-data) programming feature. This means that all of the steel component intelligence including height, width, length, paint area, etc. are easily available for automatic annotation and Bill of Material (BOM) generation. The information is automatically updated when the steel beam is trimmed or stretched. When the components are moved on the drawing, the X, Y, Z information is also automatically updated. Plus, the drawing file is considerably smaller than it has been in the past.

Other new features include a link to a database, 2D to 3D convert of steel, 3D to 2D convert of steel, automatic generation of sections, an extensive 3D utility library of hand rails, ladders, stairs, platforms, etc., compatibility with AutoCAD's Advanced Modeling Extension (AME), and more.

Applications Development Inc

Lakeway Two, 3850 N. Causeway Blvd, Suite 900, Metairie, LA 70002

504-835-1627;  fax: 805-835-4867


OBJECTIVE SOFTWARE RELOCATES HEADQUARTERS

REDWOOD CITY, CA, DECEMBER 21, 1992 -- Objective Software, Inc. today announced that it has expanded and moved its headquarters from Palo Alto to Redwood City, California. The new 14,300 square foot office is located at 200 Chesapeake Drive, Redwood City, California, 94063. Objective Software's new phone and fax numbers are 415/306-7400 and 415/306-7404, respectively.

Objective Software recently shipped SpreadBase, the first category-based modeling software. SpreadBase delivers new capabilities to the desktop PC user, such as the ability to create and maintain dynamic business models that respond instantly to change. SpreadBase for the Macintosh is list priced at $695. SpreadBase for Windows is currently in development and will be available in 1993.

Objective Software was created to develop products for the desktop that will enhance usefulness of business information and provide significant gains in productivity for the PC user. The company was co-founded in 1989 by Richard Melmon, Stanley Roach, Michael Korns, and Kyle Mashima. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, the company has sales offices in Nanuet, New York; Cincinnati, Ohio; Newport Beach, California; and Redwood City, California.