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

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within the various news articles included in the news archive.

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

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

articles for that company.

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


About Baker Enterprises
About Baker Enterprises...

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

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

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Free Distribution
FREE News Distribution...

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


PC Industry Reference Database
PC Industry Reference Database...

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

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

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Business & Productivity Software
Business & Productivity Software News:

Kodak Photo CD Portfolio Software

Kodak Ships CD Publishing Software for Windows

New Software Tools for Photo CD Images

Fully Integrated Sema4 Financial 254/255 Module

XSoft Launches European Software Business

AimTech & Sony Link Multimedia Authoring Tools

ProPhone Business+One Telephone Directory CD-ROM

SYBASE SQR Product Line Supports ORACLE7

Parse-O-Matic Data Import/Export Tool V2.30

CYMA Bundles LANtastic with Software

Call Conductor Automates Standards of Service

Timberline Construction Gold for Windows & OS/2

Softcraft Ships ZIPPER Payroll v1.6

Over-LAZ Electronic Letterheads/Rubber Stamps

Laptop Version PC Travel & Entertainment Guide

Bureaucratic Buddy Adds Import Ability

NeoPaint Version 2 Bitmap/Raster Graphics Pckg

Resampling Stats Makes Statistics Easy

IDB Object Database Adds Features, Lower Price

Sybase Opens New Mass. Customer Support Center

Comprehensive Sybase Customer Service Paradigm

Inspection Data Manager (IDM)

KnowledgeMan V3.1 Shipping from mdbs

EZ-NCOA Obtains Mail Forwarding Addresses

Advantage XBase Server for Novell Netware

A Place For My Stuff for Windows (Database)

SPFC SQL Accounting for Windows, Release 2.0

Client Project - Ultimate Project Billing Sys

The Invoice Store Business Management Software

The EYE Image Calculator Image Acquisition/Proc.

IMAGE IN and Desktop Imaging Studio Direct Link

Approach 1st Annual Awards of Distinction


Professional/Engineering Software
Professional/Engineering Software News:

PC-Based Data Collection & Analysis System Saves

GUI Code-Generation Utility for LabWindows V2.3

Upgrade to IEEE 488.2 with LabWindows DOS V2.3

LabWindows Version 2.3 Enhancements List

LabWindows 2.3 Product Feature

Chemical Design Chem-X Major New Enhancements

ASG Estimator, CAD-estimating System

chemEXHIBIT for Windows  Chemical Desktop Pub.

Micromechanical Combined Stress Analysis

Dynamic Analyzer to Study Physical Systems

EASi Eng. Moves to Larger Offices

RxAutoIcon V2.0 for AutoCAD 12 for Windows


Personal & Educational Software
Personal & Educational Software News:

$MART GAMBLER Tutorial, Planning & Reporting Pgm

Music Collector XTRA

Budget Trilogy Version 4 Income Management

Virtual Reality Environ. Educational Software

Doctor Bill's Medical Expense Organizer

EEBond For Easy Savings Bond Calculations

HealthDesk Personal Wellness Swr for Windows

Personal Computer Guide to Best Restaurants

Computer Athlete High-Tech Exercising

Sports Almanac CD-ROM Now on MPC Format

Creation Stories Multicultural CD-ROM

The View from Earth, Solar Eclipse on CDROM

Expert Home Design Golf for Windows


Games & Entertainment Software
Games & Entertainment Software News:

Speculator, Land Acquisition Game

Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective Volume III

Accolade Signs Speed Racer for New Games

Bignet to Market Riddick Bowe Game Software

DTQ V2.0 Concentration Type Memory Game

Links Championship Courses - BANFF


System Software & Utilities
System Software & Utilities News:

No-Keys Now Available in Windows Version

QuickMail 2.6 Shipping, Now Native to Windows

XVT-Design 2.0 & XVT-Design++ Announced

Central Point Safe Six for MS-DOS

Central Point Announces PC Tools 8.0a

PullDown V5.00 Shareware DOS Menu Shell

Personal MACLAN Connect for Windows

QuickMail Seeding Program - Connect Now!

SMARTCAT for Windows Floppy Disk Mgmt

Flexibak PLUS V2.50 Hard Disk Backup System

Vision Edit V3.5 Text Editor Released

Cheyenne Software Newsletter, Winter 1993

RAMLIGHT 1.0 RAMdisk Activity Indicator TSR

Dolphin Encrypt for Data Security

MSD Upgrades DiskDupe Pro, V4.0 Released

HiJaak PRO 2.0 Windows Graphics Conversion

EISToolKit Client-Server Decision Support Swr

SourceSafe Multi-Platform Version Control

WinInstall Windows Swr Distribution System

SourceSafe Project Oriented Version Control

LANprint 2.1 Windows Network Printer Selection

Rover - Voice Recognition Software for Windows

NSSI LanSafe II for Unix Power Mgmt Software

FirstClass Client for Windows Email & More

FirstClass Client for Windows Email & More

Network Software Associates Now NetSoft

Multi-Tech Upgrades MultiExpress Datacomm Swr

SYBASE SQL Server for Swedish Telecom Group


Macintosh Specific Software
Macintosh Specific Software News:

Kodak Ships CD Publishing Software for Mac

FileRunner Automates & Safeguards File Transfer

Multi-Ad Services Ships Multi-Ad Search 2.0

New SpreadBase Business Analysis Tool Release

MacSigma Radar Data Collection Analysis Swr

Objective Software & Brio Technology Team Up

Sybase & Apple Client/Server Tools Initiative

Apple & Macromedia Multimedia Tech Initiatives

IntelliTalk Swr Writing & Communications Tool

CD-ROM Driver Support for Kodak Photo CD Ready

QuickTOPiX CD Publishing & Premastering Swr


Miscellaneous Software
Miscellaneous Software News:

Sapphire Bulletin Board Upgraded to Version 4.07

TEALEAFS Draws/Paints Never-Ending Patterns

FONE800 Telecommunications Database Resource

FONE V6.1 Telecom Service/Pricing/Database

How Bill Clinton Got Where He Is Today (CDROM)

Mailing Lists & Other Shareware Goodies


System Hardware
System Hardware News:

Codar Intros Ruggedized Laptop Workstation

AST Enters Pen Computing Market

AST Moves Up on FORTUNE 500 List

ASPEN Intros Active Color & Faster Notebook

Micro Express MicroFlex-VL Upgradable System

Automated Image Management System

Microbus Single Slot 486 Computer

Microbus Half Slot 486SLC/386SX SBC's

Multi-Tech Adds 486 Technology to LAN/WAN Prods


Expansion Hardware
Expansion Hardware News:

NDX Accelerator Card High-End Neurocomputing

DSP3210 Signal Analysis Board

PC Based Servo Motor Control from JRA

SixGraph WIZARD 9000 VL BUS Graphics Accelerator

SixGraph WIZARD 924 Graphics Accelerator

VideoPacker Video Capture & Compression

Innovative Integration 32-bit Supercontroller


Peripheral Hardware
Peripheral Hardware News:

Kodak Launches Writable CD Media with InfoGuard

Kodak CD Authoring to Desktop Computer Users

Kodak Announced Networked CD-R Production Sys

Performance of Kodak Writable CD Media

Toshiba to Promote Photo CD CD-ROM Drives

Kodak CD Imaging (Photo CD) Milestones

Photo CD Products and Features

Pixelink Extends High-Speed Document Imaging Sys

NEC Moves to Estimated Selling Pricing

NEC Strengthens MultiSync FG Monitor Line

Belk Stores Refashions Network

US Robotics Acquirees France's P.N.B. s.a.

Mitsubishi Adds FCC Class B to Diamond Pro 17

Kodak Digital Camera for Infrared Imaging

New SyDOS PUMA Pounces Onto Scene

The Vertical Ergonomic Keyboard

Primera Low$ Thermal Transfer Color Printer

Floptical Technology Newsletter, April 1993


Macintosh Specific Hardware
Macintosh Specific Hardware News:

Apple Announces PowerCD CD Player

Apple Workgroup Servers Introduced

Mac Technology for Aircraft Info Systems

Apple Cross-Platform Multimedia Products

Apple Netwon Technology Licensing Strategies

Apple Expands Mac Performa Line in US

Apple Reduces Selected PowerBook Duo Products

Aegis Peripheral Intros Mac Hard Drive Line


Miscellaneous Hardware
Miscellaneous Hardware News:

FuturVideo EditLink for Videotape Editing

Sibex Computer Sentry Monitors System Health

Sibex LP-1 Parallel Printer Tester


Books & Publications
Books & Publications:

Running MS-DOS, 6th Edition from MS Press

DOS For Dummies, 2nd Edition

DOS Made Easy, Fourth Edition

DOS Inside & Out, Second Edition

DOS, The Complete Reference, Fourth Edition

DOS, The Pocket Reference, Third Edition

Simply DOS, Second Edition

Michael Banks to Connect Mag. Editorial Staff

The GUI Guide: International Terminology

Newsletter for Computer Assisted Construction

The System 7 Book from Ventana Press

Generic COBOL Cook Book

Windows Custom Controls - Programming Book

Microsoft Guide to Visual Basic for MS-DOS

The Windows Shareware 500 from Ventana Press

Build Your Own 386/386SX and Save, 2nd Edition

Super VGA Graphics Programming Secrets

Logical Operations Training Materials Newsletter

The Relational Database Advisor

Professional SAS User Interfaces

Lotus 1-2-3 for Windows Simplified

INGRES SQL Developer's Guide

Batch Files to Go: A Programmer's Library

Microsoft Guide to Managing Memory w/MS-DOS 6

PCs Made Easy, Second Edition

The Space Quest Companion, Second Edition

WordPerfect Presentations 2 Made Easy

Two New Ventana Titles Render AutoCAD Expertise

Moving From COBOL to C


Miscellaneous News
Miscellaneous News:

Photo CD Mass Production Licensing Announced

SPA Lanuches NY City Billboard Campaign

Apple & Siemens Strategic Telecom Cooperation

Racal-Datacom Anti-Pollution Recognized

COMPUEXPO Sept 9-11, 1993 - News Update

Mobile Computing Drives PC EXPO in NY 6/29-7/1

SoftSearch Now Sources Software

SPA Concerns on Gov't Encryption Announcement

Integraph Moves to Industry Sales


No-Keys Now Available in Windows Version
No-Keys, the program for IBM PC and compatible computers, is now available in a Windows version. The original No-Keys for DOS is a memory resident program designed to allow computer users with limited mobility to operate their computers using only a mouse or trackball. It allows you to send keystrokes to whatever other program you are running by "typing" on an on-screen keyboard with a mouse.

No-Keys for Windows works much the same way as No-Keys for DOS. It displays a keyboard on the screen and allows you to input keystrokes into a Windows program such as Write or Terminal by clicking on the keys with the mouse. Key combinations such as Ctrl-key or Alt-key are supported. A scan mode is also provided. People who have found No-Keys for DOS useful and who would like to use Windows programs will find No-Keys for Windows to be a valuable tool.

No-Keys for Windows, like No-Keys for DOS, sells for $25.00 (US$). Both version can be ordered at the same time for $45.00 (US$). We also have a combined version that runs in either DOS or Windows. This is a single EXE file that combines the No-Keys DOS and Windows programs. When run, it automatically detects whether you are running in the DOS or Windows environment and runs the appropriate version. This combined program sells for $40.00 (US$).

All three versions of No-Keys can be ordered by sending check or money order to:

Leithauser Research

4649 Van Kleeck Dr, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169

904-423-0705


Kodak Launches Writable CD Media with InfoGuard
KODAK LAUNCHES WRITABLE CD MEDIA WITH INFOGUARD PROTECTION SYSTEM

Unique Data Security Features, Affordability Designed to Expand CD-R Applications

SAN JOSE, Calif., Mar. 30, 1993--Individuals can write their own CD-ROM discs using new writable CDs that offer unique data protection and cost as little as 4 cents per megabyte, Eastman Kodak Company announced today.

Kodak writable CD media with the InfoGuard protection system is designed to work especially well with other elements of the Kodak writable CD system--a complete CD-ROM publishing system that makes it easy and affordable for users to store, distribute and retrieve information on CDs. Along with the media, Kodak today announced new writable CD publishing software for Windows and Macintosh environments. (Editors: See separate releases in this kit.)

The Kodak discs incorporate the following unique design features that safeguard data, which together comprise the InfoGuard protection system:

* A carefully selected dye chemistry that resists fading from light, heat, and humidity

* A protective coating that resists scratches, dirt, rough handling, or other common mishaps that may damage the disc's readability

* A unique identification number--printed in human-readable form along with a corresponding machine-readable bar code that provides tracking, indexing, and security advantages

* A surface design that resists fingerprints, allowing discs to maintain a "like-new" appearance after handling

Each Kodak writable CD can store 550--650 megabytes of data, text, images, and/or digital audio (depending on the format). The discs are compatible with the ISO 9660 file and volume structure when properly authored and can then be read in all standard hardware devices, including CD-ROM, CD-ROM XA, CD-I, and CD audio players.

With a suggested retail price of $25 for one Kodak writable CD, the new media provide a cost-effective alternative to other types of removable computer storage. For about 4 cents per megabyte, users can store the equivalent of 240,000 pages of ASCII text, 550 floppy discs or three reels of nine-track tape.

The Kodak writable media system is an outgrowth of the Kodak Photo CD system, the world's first high-volume application for writable CD technology (also known as CD-Recordable technology, or CD-R). The research that made it possible to produce photographic compact discs economically for consumers has made low-volume commercial production of data CDs viable as well.

"The compact disc is rapidly becoming the standard medium for interchange of information at home, in school, at the office, and in industrial applications," said Georgia L. McCabe, director for Kodak's worldwide Commercial CD Imaging unit. "With writable CD media, Kodak is fulfilling its promise to expand CD applications by bringing affordable low-volume CD publishing to the desktop."

Kodak Writable CD Features

Unlike mass-produced audio CDs and CD-ROM titles, which employ an aluminum reflecting layer, Kodak writable CDs have a 24K gold reflecting layer that is virtually unaffected by oxygen, moisture, or solvents. Combined with Kodak's special dye and protective coating, the new discs provide greater longevity and durability than do many existing write-once or mass-produced CDs.

The 12-digit identification number imprinted on each disc provides several advantages. In databases and indices, it serves as a reference number to identify which discs contain requested information. It also acts as a disc serial number which makes it easier to track discs during production, provides a reference for customer questions, and assists end users in filing their discs.

The identification number also provides a security benefit: users can record or encrypt it in the data stream during the writing process, thus inhibiting the use of counterfeit discs.

Customized labeling is another benefit Kodak will provide customers. Open fields on the disc surface provide a space for company logos, product names, or other unique publisher information.

Other Writable CD Products

The Kodak media system complements other Kodak writable CD products to provide a complete publishing solution.

* The Kodak PCD writer 200 is twice as fast as conventional CD writers. The writer has a standard SCSI-II interface for connection to a host computer, built-in error detection/correction software, and a bar code reader to take advantage of the Kodak media's identification number.

* Kodak writable CD publishing software allows users to publish data to writable CDs with a point and click of the mouse, as easily as they might copy files to a floppy disc today. With today's announcements, Kodak software is now available to users in the MS-DOS environment; Macintosh computer, Windows, and Sun/UNIX versions will be available soon.

The Kodak disc writers and media both support multisession recording. This means users can add data to a disc in different recording sessions. Kodak said it plans to offer multisession authoring software later this year.

"Our writable CD products are designed to offer customers one of the most productive and convenient systems available for low-volume CD publishing, with the added benefit of 'one-stop shopping' from a single vendor," McCabe said.

Already in Use

Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system are currently being used by customers in a wide range of applications. Several telecommunications firms, for example, are sending bills to their large customers on Kodak CDs. Software distributors are using the new media to provide customers with software products. Law firms and courts distribute litigation records and other legal documents on the new media.

"The potential applications for this media are virtually limitless," McCabe said. "Kodak writable CD products represent a true enabling technology, giving our customers a capability they need and letting them run with it."

For further information about Kodak writable CD media with the InfoGuard protection system or other Kodak writable CD products, customers may call the Kodak Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-242-2424, extension 52.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


Photo CD Mass Production Licensing Announced
KODAK AND PHILIPS ANNOUNCE LICENSING FOR MASS PRODUCTION OF PRERECORDED PHOTO CD DISCS

SAN JOSE, Calif., Mar. 30,1993--In response to growing customer demand, Eastman Kodak Company and Philips announced today that a licensing program to allow mass replication of prerecorded Photo CD discs will soon be available.

In order to manufacture prerecorded Photo CD discs, disc manufacturers will need to obtain licenses from both Kodak and Philips.

Currently, the only way to produce a Photo CD disc is through a photofinisher or service bureau that uses a Kodak Photo CD Imaging Workstation. Photo CD Imaging Workstations produce custom Photo CD discs individually, or in small quantities, from photographic negatives and transparencies.

"We have been besieged by requests from publishers who want to mass produce their own Photo CD titles," explained Fred Geyer, general manager, CD Imaging, at Kodak. "These have included photographers, who want to distribute their stock photos on disc; merchants, who are considering putting catalogs on disc; and publishers of entertainment and educational software, who want to use Photo CD players as home entertainment and educational platforms.

"A very successful example of a mass produced Photo CD disc is the title From Alice to Ocean, by Rick Smolan," Geyer said. "We produced this disc for inclusion in Rick Smolan's book of the same title as a demonstration of the communications power of our Photo CD Portfolio format."

"We believe this is a very positive move that will enable the industry to adopt Photo CD as the standard for professional electronic publishing applications," added John Hawkins, general manager, Philips Interactive Media.

Replicating Photo CD Discs

Kodak and Philips will cooperate in a licensing program that makes it possible for publishers to produce and distribute discs in larger quantities using the Photo CD format. Under the licensing arrangement, those wishing to publish a Photo CD title will take their Photo CD discs to a CD-audio or CD-ROM disc manufacturer. The disc manufacturers will mass produce the contents of the Photo CD disc in a manner similar to the way they mass produce audio CDs and CD-ROM discs today.

The starting point for mass production can be one of three Kodak Photo CD disc formats--Photo CD Master, Pro Photo CD Master, or Photo CD Portfolio. In addition, discs produced in a CD-I authoring studio, or in a Photo CD-enabled desktop imaging system, may be mass produced. The publisher will take the original Photo CD disc to an authorized manufacturer to have it manufactured from the gold-colored Photo CD original.

To produce Photo CD discs in quantity, manufacturers will employ techniques similar to the ones they use for CD-ROM and audio compact discs. In this process, a laser records a continuous stream of data onto a glass plate with a recordable coating. The glass is then used to make a nickel stamper. The stamper is placed in an injection molding machine, which physically molds a newly-formed disc with the encoded data. Production costs for this process make it practical for applications that require hundreds or thousands of discs.

Kodak and Philips plan to initiate the licensing program for Photo CD discs late this spring.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


Kodak CD Authoring to Desktop Computer Users
KODAK WRITABLE CD PRODUCTS & PHOTO CD PUBLISHING FORMAT BRING CD AUTHORING TO DESKTOP COMPUTER USERS

SAN JOSE, Calif., Mar. 30, 1993--With a series of new CD authoring products announced today, Eastman Kodak Company is expanding the ability of desktop computer users to output their computer files or create multimedia presentations on compact discs.

The new products being demonstrated here at the Intermedia conference include:

* Disc authoring software for creating Kodak Photo CD Portfolio discs, which positions the Portfolio format to become a major publishing medium for custom multimedia programs that can be played on television or computers

* Kodak writable CD media with the InfoGuard protection system, designed with special features to safeguard data for CD-Recordable (CD-R) applications

* The Kodak PCD LAN writer 200, a CD-R production system that bundles Kodak media and hardware with software from Meridian Data, Inc., allowing users on a PC network to output data to writable CDs as easily as they now choose a printer

* Two new Kodak writable CD software products, allowing individual computer users in Macintosh and Windows environments to output data to writable CDs

* New Kodak software that will provide access to Photo CD images for users of MS-DOS operating software

Kodak also announced a licensing agreement with Toshiba Corp. which will allow Toshiba to use the Kodak Photo CD logo to promote its multisession CDROM drives.

The Kodak Photo CD system lets people take conventional 35 mm photographs and have the film images scanned onto compact discs. They then can incorporate their images in computing applications, using a compatible CDROM XA drive and appropriate software, or can display them on television using a Photo CD player (which also plays audio CDs).

Last August, as Kodak was delivering the first Photo CD players to consumers, Kodak announced a series of new disc formats and applications to extend Photo CD technology to commercial users.

"Before launching the Photo CD system to consumers, Kodak provided photofinishers with enabling technologies to produce Photo CD discs cost-effectively," said Fred Geyer, general manager and vice president, CD Imaging at Kodak. "Today, Kodak is extending this core technology to business and professional users by giving them the tools to produce commercial discs at their desktop computers."

Portfolio Authoring Software

The company demonstrated new software for authoring Kodak Photo CD Portfolio discs at the desktop, positioning the Portfolio format to become a major publishing medium for custom-designed multimedia titles.

Available this summer, the software will let people create Portfolio discs that contain combinations of photographic images, audio, graphics and text screens, and programmed access. Applications include consumer "picture stories" (like weddings or family trees), business presentations, and commercial titles. Because the highest resolutions of Photo CD images are not required on this format, users can have more space available for other content, such as audio and graphics. Image professionals also will use the format to make custom Photo CD discs with copied or edited Photo CD images.

Like all Photo CD discs, Portfolio discs can be played on television using a Photo CD or CD-I player. Computers can play the discs using a Photo CD-compatible CD-ROM XA drive and the appropriate software.

Writable CD Products

Several of the new products Kodak introduced today will make it easy for desktop computer users to output their data files to write-once CD-ROM discs called CD-Recordable discs, or writable CDs.

* The newly announced Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system includes several unique features that provide greater longevity and durability than many existing write-once or mass-produced CDs. For as little as 4 cents per megabyte, each Kodak writable CD stores 550-650 megabytes of data, text, images and/or digital audio. The discs already are being used in a wide range of applications, and when properly authored can be read in any standard CD hardware device.

* The Kodak PCD LAN writer 200 lets any DOS or Windows user, on a Novell-based Ethernet network, output data to Kodak writable CDs. The system bundles Kodak writable CD products with Netscribe Access Client Software from Meridian Data, Inc. The software allows users to produce single-session or multisession discs (which means data files can be appended to the same disc at different times). Under terms of an agreement between the two companies announced today, Meridian will market an identical system as the Meridian Netscribe 1000.

* In addition, Kodak announced April availability of Kodak writable CD publishing software for Macintosh computers and Windows environments. Publishing software for DOS users is already available, and a UNIX version will be available soon. The software packages allow individual users to format data in conformance with the ISO 9660 file and volume structure standard--the core cross-platform CD-ROM standard--and to drive the Kodak PCD writer 200 from their desktop computer. Both packages feature an easy-to-use graphical interface that allows users to click, drag, and drop selected files, and then publish all the selected files to a writable CD in a single step. Kodak will offer multisession formatting software for major operating systems later this year.

Toshiba Licensing Agreement

Under terms of a licensing agreement announced today, Toshiba will use the Photo CD trademark to promote its latest multisession CD-ROM XA drives. The agreement with Toshiba includes the XM-3401 Series of drives--internal, external, laptop or notebook drives, as well as a multiple-drive unit.

Toshiba has licensed the right to use the Photo CD trademark--a graphic representation of film merged with a compact disc, along with the words "Photo CD"--to appear on the drives, on packaging, in promotional literature, and in advertising.

With this latest licensing agreement, manufacturers of CD-ROM drives can brand their multisession products with the Photo CD trademark. The Photo CD trademark on a CD-ROM drive indicates to the purchaser that the drive has all the capabilities inherent in the Photo CD format.

Access Software for DOS

Kodak also announced that its popular Photo CD Access software is now available to computer users running MS-DOS software.

Kodak Photo CD Access software allows users to read and save Photo CD images, and to incorporate them into current applications. Available since late last summer to users of Macintosh and Windows operating systems, Kodak has sold more than 40,000 copies so far, and is currently shipping approximately 2,000 more units every week.

In addition to end-user software for DOS, the company announced the Kodak Photo CD Access developer toolkit for MS-DOS. Available by mid-May, the toolkit will give DOS application developers the ability to flexibly access images stored on Photo CD discs.

"The compact disc has grown beyond traditional CD-ROM applications, and is fast becoming a mainstream medium for a whole range of computer storage and distribution needs," Geyer concluded. "With today's announcements, Kodak is demonstrating its position as one of the industry leaders in the growing CD marketplace."

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


Kodak Photo CD Portfolio Software
KODAK ANNOUNCES NEW PHOTO CD PORTFOLIO SOFTWARE

Multimedia Publishing Format Demonstrated at Intermedia Conference

SAN JOSE, Calif., Mar. 30, 1993--Eastman Kodak Company today announced and demonstrated its new software for authoring Photo CD discs at desktop computers. The new Photo CD Portfolio authoring software will create Photo CD Portfolio format discs that can become a major publishing medium, for use on TV and computers.

Kodak Leads in Delivering Photography to the Computer Desktop

Georgia L. McCabe, director for Kodak's worldwide Commercial CD Imaging organization, said "The Portfolio authoring software provides commercial customers increased access to the benefits of the Photo CD formats. This is the beginning of desktop creation of custom-designed multimedia titles."

Features of the new software include creation of discs containing combinations of photographic images, stereo audio, graphics and text screens, and programmed access.

Photo CD and CD-I players can display Kodak Photo CD Portfolio discs, like all Photo CD format discs, on TV. The discs also can be used on computers with a Photo CD-compatible CD-ROM XA drive and the appropriate software. The Photo CD Portfolio format is set to become the universal cross-platform CD-ROM publishing medium.

Photo CD Portfolio Authoring Software Features

The new Photo CD Portfolio software provides users the ability to create Photo CD Portfolio discs at their desktops. Users can do the following:

* Develop and produce interactive multimedia presentations and titles directly on the desktop in the Photo CD Portfolio format, combining photos, audio, graphics, text, and programmed access

* Edit images from Photo CD Master or Pro Photo CD Master discs using off-the-shelf image editing software and write the edited files to Photo CD Portfolio discs for storage or distribution

* Combine photographic-quality images from Photo CD Master and Pro Photo CD Master discs with other digital images to create Photo CD Portfolio discs for presentations, storage, or distribution

* Copy Photo CD Master and Pro Photo CD Master discs to Kodak Photo CD Portfolio discs for low- to medium-volume distribution

* Merge images from an assortment of Photo CD Master and Pro Photo CD Master discs to new Photo CD Portfolio discs

A module of the Photo CD authoring software package will be used to convert non-Photo CD images, such as TIFF files, to Photo CD image pack format. The converted images can be used on Photo CD Portfolio discs along with Photo CD images. This means users can include images generated with virtually any image-creation or image-editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop, and with digital cameras such as the Kodak DCS Professional Digital Camera System.

The new features provide photographers and designers with the ability to edit Photo CD images and save them to Photo CD Portfolio discs in the Photo CD image pack format. The features also enable producers of presentations to create images in other software applications, then convert those images to Photo CD image pack format before writing them to Photo CD Portfolio discs. The resulting discs will be usable on any Photo CD-compatible device--on TV and on computers.

Kodak's Portfolio authoring software comprises the following utilities:

* Image-packer, which converts TIFF files to Photo CD format

* Copy/merge, which copies Photo CD image packs from other Photo

  CD discs, maintaining Photo CD playback compatibility

* Portfolio organizer, which arranges the digital information,

  including images and audio, with linear and non-linear

  sequencing (programmed access or branching), in the Photo CD

  format

Kodak will publish a description language so other software developers can support output to Photo CD Portfolio discs from within their applications. The description language will be interpreted by the Photo CD authoring software, to be written subsequently to a Photo CD Portfolio disc at the desktop or at a service bureau, photo lab, or photofinisher.

Photo CD Portfolio Applications

Using the features of the Photo CD Portfolio format--which can include digital photos, audio, text, graphics, and programmed access, users can produce:

* Business presentations with narration and menu choices

* Real estate listings with photos, audio, and descriptive text

* Training and education materials for wide or narrow

  distribution

* Wedding albums with music and narration

* School yearbooks with audio

* Family trees with branches and comments

* Books with narration

With Kodak Photo CD Portfolio disc authoring software, the user can create these applications on the desktop. Moderate quantities of individual titles can be produced directly at the desktop using the Kodak PCD writer 200. Each original Photo CD Portfolio disc also can be used as a master for mass production of discs, using the same process that now is used for audio CDs. Mass-produced CD-ROM discs can cost as little as one dollar each, which makes this format an economical publishing tool.

Pricing and Availability

Kodak plans to ship Photo CD Portfolio authoring software this summer. The software will be available first for Sun Sparc Stations, next for the Macintosh computer platform, and finally for the Windows platform sometime in the future.

Prospective users of Photo CD Portfolio authoring software can call the Kodak Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-242-2424, extension 53, for more information. Software developers interested in integrating support for Portfolio authoring in their own applications also may call this number for more information. Software pricing will be announced at a later date.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


Kodak Ships CD Publishing Software for Mac
KODAK SHIPS CD PUBLISHING SOFTWARE FOR MACINTOSH

SAN JOSE, Calif., Mar. 30, 1993 Eastman Kodak Company today announced early May U.S. and Canadian availability of Kodak writable CD publishing software for the Macintosh computer platform.

Kodak CD publishing software enables commercial users to format digital information stored on a Macintosh computer in conformance with the ISO 9660 file and volume structure standard. The ISO 9660 standard ensures that data written to a write-once compact disc (CD) is interchangeable across the major computer platforms, including Macintosh, Windows, DOS, and UNDC (Users would need a standard CD-ROM device and application software to read a write-once CD.)

In addition to formatting data, Kodak CD publishing software drives the Kodak PCD writer 200 from a customer's host computer. The writer transfers the data to a writable CD in a single session. Kodak will offer multisession formating software for each of the major operating systems in the latter part of 1993. Multisession software will allow users to append data to a previously written disc in multiple independent sessions.

The easy-to-use Kodak CD publishing software features a graphical user interface that allows users to dick, drag, and drop data files located on their hard drive for ISO 9660 formatting. The software also furnishes default settings for novice users as well as on-line help.

Kodak CD publishing software is part of the Kodak writable CD system, which also consists of the Kodak PCD writer 200 and Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system. An outgrowth of the Photo CD system, the Kodak writable CD system is designed to offer commercial users a standard, economical alternative to traditional methods of publishing data CDs. Kodak writable CDs can store 550-650 megabytes (MB) of data, text, images, and digital audio, depending on the format.

Kodak CD publishing software for the Macintosh operating system has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $2,495. Single session Kodak publishing software is also available for the DOS and Windows environment. Kodak will soon offer single session formatting software for the UNIX platform.

Kodak CD publishing software, the Kodak PCD writer 200, and Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system are available today from Kodak, as well as from selected value-added resellers (VARs) and systems integrators.

For more information about Kodak publishing software or other Kodak writable CD products or to place an order, consumers may call the Kodak Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-242-2424, extension 52.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


Kodak Ships CD Publishing Software for Windows
KODAK SHIPS CD PUBLISHING SOFTWARE FOR WINDOWS ENVIRONMENT

SAN JOSE, Calif., Mar. 30, 1993--Eastman Kodak Company today introduced Kodak publishing software for the Windows environment in the U.S. and Canada.

Kodak writable CD publishing software enables commercial users to format digital information stored on a personal computer in conformance with the ISO 9660 file and volume structure standard. The ISO 9660 standard ensures that data written to a write-once compact disc (CD) is interchangeable across the major computer platforms, including Windows, DOS, Macintosh, and UNIX. (Users would need a standard CD-ROM device and application software to read a write-once CD.)

In addition to formating data, Kodak CD publishing software drives the Kodak PCD writer 200 from a customer's host computer. The writer transfers the data to a writable CD in a single session. Kodak will offer multisession formating software for major operating systems in the latter part of 1993. Multisession software will allow users to append data to a previously written disc in multiple independent sessions.

The easy-to-use Kodak CD publishing software features a graphical user interface that allows users to dick, drag, and drop data files located on their hard drive for ISO 9660 formatting. The software also furnishes default settings for novice users as well as on-line help.

Kodak CD publishing software is part of the Kodak writable CD system, which also consists of the Kodak PCD writer 200 and Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system. An outgrowth of the Photo CD system, the Kodak writable CD system is designed to offer commercial users a standard, economical alternative to traditional methods of publishing data CDs. Kodak writable CDs can store 550-650 megabytes (MB) of data, text, images, and digital audio, depending on the format.

Kodak CD publishing software for the Windows platform has a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $2,495. Single session Kodak publishing software is also available for the DOS environment. Kodak will soon offer single session formatting software for the Macintosh and UNIX platforms.

The Kodak PCD writer 200 and Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system are available today from Kodak, as well as from selected value-added resellers (VARs) and systems integrators. Kodak CD publishing software for the Windows environment will be available in early April from the same channels.

For more information about Kodak publishing software or other Kodak writable CD products or to place an order, consumers can call the Kodak Information Center at 1-800-242-2424, extension 52.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


Kodak Announced Networked CD-R Production Sys
KODAK ANNOUNCES NETWORKED CD-R PRODUCTION SYSTEM

SAN JOSE, Calif., Mar. 30,1993--With a new system being announced today by Eastman Kodak Company, users of networked PCs can output data to writable compact discs as easily as they now choose a printer.

The Kodak PCD LAN writer 200 bundles Kodak's writable CD products with Netscribe Access Client Software from Meridian Data, Inc. The result is a turnkey system that lets any DOS or Windows user on a Novell-based Ethernet network produce standard CD-ROM discs for about 4 cents per megabyte half the cost of magnetic tape with the added advantage of random access to data.

Applications for the new system include the archiving of critical information and storage of document images or multimedia presentations. The large installed base of CD-ROM drives also makes the system uniquely suited to the economical distribution of software and data files.

"CD-Recordable (CD-R) discs, which Kodak calls writable CDs, offer significant advantages to people who work with large amounts of data," explained Fred Geyer, general manager and vice president of CD Imaging at Kodak. "They provide fast, random access to data, they combine high capacity with low cost and they can be read in standard CD hardware devices.

"Today, with the introduction of a system that allows these discs to be produced economically in a networked environment, writable CD is poised to challenge magnetic tape for the future of data storage and distribution."

System Features

In addition to providing network-ready data output to writable CD discs, the Kodak PCD LAN writer 200 also offers the following:

* CD-ROM data retrieval from any node on the network (allowing all network users access to data stored on CD-ROM discs)

* Compatibility with all Novell networks, including NetWare Lite and NetWare versions 2.X, 3.X, and 4.X

* Support for DOS, Windows 3.X, and Windows for Workgroups environments

* The ability to use all standard CD-R media, including Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system

* System support provided by Kodak's Customer Equipment Services organization, which includes more than four thousand field engineers serving all 50 states and 25 countries

Many customers will use the PCD LAN writer 200 to help them distribute information across the United States and internationally, Geyer noted. "We think they'll appreciate the benefits of Kodak's worldwide service and support."

Customers who purchase the PCD LAN writer 200 today will be able to produce both single-session CD-R discs and multisession discs (under the newly established multisession standard). Using Meridian's Appendable Checkpoint Format (ACF), they'll also be able to create multisession discs that can be read by single-session CD-ROM drives.

By late this summer, a software upgrade to the PCD LAN writer 200 will enable it to create Kodak Photo CD Portfolio discs as well. Users will develop their interactive presentations at the desktop with Kodak Photo CD Portfolio authoring software, then will simply point and click on an icon to have the presentation transferred over the network onto a Photo CD Portfolio disc. (Editors: See related news release in this kit.)

"The PCD LAN writer 200 has been designed to provide network users with a lot of flexibility," Geyer noted. "We expect that it will find enthusiastic acceptance among people who need to manage, store and distribute the large files generated by data-intensive applications such as backup, financial analysis, and multimedia."

As part of Kodak's arrangement with Meridian, that company will offer an identical system as the Meridian Netscribe 1000.

How The PCD LAN writer 200 Works

At the heart of the new Kodak system is the Kodak PCD writer 200, a highspeed CD-R device that's twice as fast as conventional CD writers. In addition to double-speed recording and playback, the PCD writer 200 also offers:

* The ability to record all standard CD formats (when used with the appropriate authoring software), including CD-ROM, CD-ROM XA, and CD-I

* Bar code reading capability (when used with bar-coded discs such as Kodak writable CD media with the InfoGuard protection system)

* A standard SCSI-II interface for easy attachment to a network server

* Powerful built-in error detection and correction capability

The PCD LAN writer 200 has been designed to be extremely easy to use. At the desktop, the device appears to the user as a shared network resource, the same way a printer does. To send data files to print on a CD, users employ a simple drag-and-drop graphical interface.

Pricing And Availability

Available today, the Kodak PCD LAN writer 200 carries a suggested list price of $13,995. This includes the disc writer and all necessary software for up to five users.

A software upgrade which will enable the Kodak PCD LAN writer 200 to produce Photo CD Portfolio discs will be offered to all current customers when it becomes available late this summer.

For more information about the Kodak PCD LAN writer 200, customers may call the Kodak Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-242-2424, extension 52.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


PC-Based Data Collection & Analysis System Saves
E.I. DuPont Plant Saves Development Dollars with PC-Based Data Collection and Analysis System

March 29, 1993 - Austin, TX - The E.I. DuPont May plant (Camden, SC) has found a way to save time and money by using a personal computer (PC), software, and hardware to conduct research on its high-speed fiber spinning manufacturing process.

DuPont has combined LabWindows automatic code-generating software and a high-performance multichannel data acquisition (DAQ) board, both from National Instruments, to create a low-cost, flexible, PC-based system that monitors a nylon fiber spinning machine. The DOS-based system looks for events - such as a break in the fiber- that interrupt the manufacturing process and cost thousands of dollars in downtime while the crew finds and repairs the fault. DuPont uses the results from the research station to optimize the performance of similar machines throughout the May plant.

High-Speed System Monitors Multiple Parameters

DuPont uses LabWindows and the AT-MIO-16F-5 plug-in board to continuously monitor 64 sensors that check physical parameters such as the viscosity of the molten nylon; the pressure buildup as the nylon goes through filters; the pressure, temperature, and rate-of-flow of air cooling the molten nylon into solid fiber; fiber tension; and the power level on multiple drive rolls and heaters. As soon as the system senses that one or two channels have exceeded certain predefined limits simultaneously, LabWindows dumps a high-speed "snapshot" of data to disk. This snapshot includes several seconds worth of data from before, as well as after, the event. Snapshots usually range from tour to eight seconds in length, but may be longer, containing more than a million data points.

Data Analysis and Presentation Key to Successful System Operation

Maarten Meinders, a DuPont Senior Research Engineer, used the automatic code-generating features in LabWindows to write a custom analysis program that manages the large amount of data generated by the sensors. LabWindows superimposes 64 miniplots on one screen so engineers can look for sensor anomalies. Engineers can click on specific plots to examine in closer detail, or select regions of the plots and perform instant statistical comparison within regions. Once engineers determine the regions in which the event occurred, LabWindows prints a one-page comparison of the same regions for the remaining sensors. LabWindows libraries also perform more advanced analysis, such as digital filtering, FFT, spectrum analysis, and time-shifting, on the plots.

Increased Functionality and Flexibility at a Reduced Cost Prove Beneficial

Meinders says that cost is a main reason for choosing a PC-based system. "A VAX-based system costs at least $50,000 for the computing power alone," says Meinders. "Several years ago, a team at another DuPont plant spent $200,000 on a (VAX-based) solution for a similar problem." In comparison, Meinders spent $33,000 for a 486-based, 25 MHz PC, LabWindows, the AT-MIO-16F-5, signal conditioning hardware, and a prefabricated room to protect the PC.

The real-time capabilities of LabWindows and the AT-MIO-16F-5 have improved the efficiency of the May plant.

"We can do fundamental research now that we couldn't do before," says Meinders. "We can look at several sensors at once, very fast. We understand the process more - it's improved our operability and quality. This, in turn, helps us continuously update our analysis programs."

About LabWindows

LabWindows is a set of software tools and libraries for developing programs in Microsoft C and QuickBASlC under DOS for instrument control, data acquisition, analysis, and presentation. LabWindows can control GPIB, VXI, and RS-232 instruments, and plug-in DAQ boards. LabWindows includes an Instrument Library with over 260 ready-to-use high-level drivers for controlling specific programmable instruments. LabWindows also has Analysis Libraries with functions for array and matrix manipulation, complex arithmetic, statistics, Fast Fourier Transforms, curve-fitting, digital filters, real and complex vector and scalar operations and high-level statistical analysis.

About the AT-MIO-16F-5

The AT-MIO-16F-5 is a high-performance, multifunction analog, digital, and timing I/O board for PC AT and compatible computers. It has a 12-bit sampling ADC with up to 16 single-ended or eight differential analog inputs and a 200 kHz sustained sampling rate, two 12-bit DACs, eight lines of TTL-compatible digital l/O, and three 16-bit counter/timer channels.

National Instruments

6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Austin, TX 78730-5039

512-794-0100;  800-433-3488;  fax: 512-794-8411


Performance of Kodak Writable CD Media
PERMANENCE OF KODAK WRITABLE CD MEDIA WITH INFOGUARD PROTECTION SYSTEM

As new applications for writable CD products are identified and implemented, the issue of permanence of information recorded on CDs must be addressed. As with other information-recording media, including photographic film, magnetic tape, and optical discs, different manufacturers produce products having different quality, reliability, and lifetime properties. It is important that customers carefully select their suppliers.

Kodak manufactures Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system using different materials and manufacturing processes than are used for mass produced audio or data discs. The reflector Kodak uses is gold, a material that is not adversely affected by moisture, oxygen, or solvents. The data-recording layer Kodak uses is a carefully selected laser-sensitive dye that does not change significantly over time, even when exposed to extreme light, heat, and humidity conditions.

Kodak knows there are wide variations in composition of the dye layers used by various media manufacturers. Information stability characteristics in other manufacturers' media vary widely and can be linked to different types of dyes used in their discs. In our testing, we observe no significant changes in any performance characteristics of Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system after 32 days of continuous exposure to 50 Klux of simulated daylight (sunlight filtered through window glass). This corresponds to more than 100 years of exposure to indirect indoor sunlight. Indoor indirect sunlight is what a disc experiences when left on a desk or shelf in a well-windowed room.

Similar results were obtained in our tests for discs exposed to high temperature (up to 176 degrees F/80 degrees C) and high humidity (up to 85%).

It is not possible to accurately predict an expected data lifetime based on these results because the changes we observe are so small, even after prolonged testing. It is reasonable to expect a life of 30 years or more when discs are stored in normal home or office conditions. We are continuing our testing, covering many production lots of material, under many different testing conditions. Additional results will be reported when testing is completed. It is important to note that any accelerated tests are predictions that must be confirmed in real-life keeping tests.

Kodak writable CD media with InfoGuard protection system also has been specially treated to minimize damage caused by handling. Our scratch tolerant surface resists damage even when subjected to forces twice as great as those that would cause data loss on conventional CDs and five times greater than those that would cause data loss on some other recordable CD media. This results in a product with excellent physical durability.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


New Software Tools for Photo CD Images
NEW SOFTWARE, TOOLS WILL GIVE DOS USERS ACCESS TO PHOTO CD IMAGES

SAN JOSE, Calif., Mar. 30, 1993--Tens of millions of computer users running MS-DOS operating system software will be able to access images stored on Kodak Photo CD discs, thanks to new software and developers' tools being announced by Kodak today.

The new software is the DOS version of Kodak Photo CD Access software, which gives users the ability to read and save Photo CD images and to import the images into their DOS applications.

Available since late last summer to users of Macintosh and Windows operating systems, Photo CD Access software has proved to be extremely popular. Kodak has sold more than 40,000 copies so far and is currently shipping 2,000 more units every week.

In addition to the DOS Access software, Kodak today also announced the Kodak Photo CD Access developer toolkit for MS-DOS. The new toolkit, like those already available for Macintosh, Windows and Sun/UNIX environments, will give DOS application developers the ability to flexibly access images stored on Photo CD discs.

"Since 1987, when the first 286-based PCs were introduced, millions of DOS-based machines have been sold," explained Georgia L. McCabe, worldwide manager, Commercial CD, in Kodak's CD Imaging unit. "Today, even with the advent of Windows software, large numbers of people continue to work in DOS. The new software and developers' tools we're announcing today promise to bring the excitement of Photo CD technology to these users."

About Photo CD Access Software

Kodak Photo CD Access software is a low-cost tool that's designed for the computer user of Photo CD images and for those who want to import Photo CD images to current applications (such as Freedom of Press or Mathematica image editing software). With Kodak Photo CD Access software, users can read and display Photo CD images and can perform basic functions such as cropping, and image rotation. The software also acts as a bridge, allowing users to import their digital images into other applications for page layout, image enhancement, and other uses via TIFF, BMP, PICT, EPS, and other popular image file formats.

For the DOS version of Photo CD Access software, Kodak has built in a graphical user interface that features pull-down menus and "thumbnail" versions of stored images. The software loads easily and once installed eliminates the need for the user to remember any DOS commands.

Photo CD Access software for DOS will be available in early April, direct from Kodak, for $39.95. The software comes loaded on a CD-ROM disc and is accompanied on the disc by 24 sample images. A Photo CD-compatible CDROM drive is required to use Photo CD discs and software on a computer.

Developer Toolkit

The Kodak Photo CD Access developer toolkit for DOS consists of a library of the basic C-language functions required to read images from a Photo CD disc into memory in formats that are compatible with the DOS environment. The toolkit also provides the sample code needed to export the images to industry standard file formats, such as TIFF and EPS.

The toolkit provides for Photo CD images to be read into a number of standard color and gray scale formats, including full 24-bit RGB color. In addition, it provides basic image-manipulation functions, such as rotation, and handles all the recomposition of the higher resolution Photo CD images.

The Photo CD Access developer toolkit has been optimized for the 640K memory constraint that exists in DOS. The $695 suggested retail price includes the toolkit and a Photo CD sampler disc. The toolkit, which is scheduled to become available by mid-May, requires DOS 3.0 or higher.

To help support developers who use the toolkit, Kodak offers a special two-level program. The silver level, which costs $395, enables developers to display the Photo CD logo on their product packaging. The gold level, at $795, adds special technical support, including a promise to answer any technical question within 24 hours.

Those who would like to order either Photo CD Access software or the Photo CD Access developer toolkit, or who require more information, may call the Kodak Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-242-2424, extension 53.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


Toshiba to Promote Photo CD CD-ROM Drives
TOSHIBA TO PROMOTE CD-ROM DRIVES WITH PHOTO CD LOGO

Company Licenses Kodak Trademark for Use with 3401 Series Products

SAN JOSE, Calif., Mar. 30, 1993--The latest family of CD-ROM drives from the Disk Products Division of Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc. (TAIS DPD) will incorporate the distinctive trademark of Eastman Kodak Company's Photo CD system, officials of both companies said today.

Toshiba introduced its XM-3401 series of multisession CD-ROM disc drives last November, announcing then that the new drives would be compatible with the Kodak Photo CD system. Today the two companies announced a licensing agreement that will allow Toshiba to employ the Photo CD trademark in product advertising, on packaging, and on the drives themselves.

Purchasers of the Toshiba drives can incorporate their own photographic images, scanned onto Kodak Photo CD discs, into desktop computing applications. The drives are available in a Photo CD kit version that includes a host-adapter card and driver software that support the Photo CD image file format--including the system's multisession capability, which allows photographs (and sound, text, or graphics using the Photo CD Portfolio format) to be added to discs at different times.

"We are delighted that Toshiba will promote Photo CD system compatibility as a key selling feature of its CD-ROM drives," said Fred Geyer, general manager and vice president, CD Imaging, at Kodak." Toshiba believes that multisession Photo CD compatibility is a big plus in today's marketplace for CD-ROM drives, and it will become more important as new Photo CD products and applications are developed," said Jerry Higgins, vice president of marketing, Optical Disk Drives, TAIS, DPD. "We've licensed use of the Photo CD trademark to promote this exciting capability to our customers."

Toshiba XM-3401 Drives

Available since December, the XM-3401 series drives are described by Toshiba as "the fastest single CD-ROM disc drives available." The double-speed drives feature 2.2 times the rotational speed to provide a 330 KB/second data transfer rate and 200-millisecond random access time. They consume a maximum of six watts of power and an average of four watts, an important feature for internal drives, where power is supplied by the host computer.

Four models are available: the XM-3401B internal drive; the TXM-3401E external drive; the TXM-3401P, designed for use with laptop and notebook computers; and the TXM-3401A4, a four-drive unit designed for applications that require fast access to multiple discs. Subsystem kits connect the XM-3401 series drives to IBM PC AT/XT, PS/2, and Macintosh computers and compatibles.

Toshiba has licensed use of the Photo CD trademark--a graphic representation of film merged with a compact disc, along with the words "Photo CD"--to appear on the drives, on packaging, in promotional literature, and in advertising.

Kodak Photo CD System

Available to consumers since last August, the Photo CD system lets people take pictures using conventional 35 mm cameras and film and have the film images scanned onto compact discs. They then can incorporate their images in computing applications using a compatible CD-ROM drive and appropriate software or display them on television using a home player (which also plays audio CDs). In addition to the Kodak Photo CD Master disc format for consumers, Kodak has announced a number of additional Photo CD formats and related products designed for commercial applications.

* Kodak Photo CD Portfolio discs, designed to become a major publishing medium, contain combinations of photographic images, stereo audio, graphics, text, and programmed access. Kodak announced Portfolio authoring software today that will allow users to create on-disc programs at the desktop.

* Kodak Pro Photo CD Master discs, designed for professional photography applications, can store the large-format negatives and transparencies favored by many professionals.

* Kodak Photo CD Catalog discs can store up to 6,000 images for economical archiving and distribution of images.

Toshiba XM-3401 series drives support all Photo CD formats and allow Photo CD images to be displayed within compatible software applications.

"The Photo CD system is rapidly becoming the industry standard for high-resolution images in CD-ROM applications," Geyer said. "We envision the day when our Photo CD trademark is as common on CD-ROM drives as the compact disc trademark is on audio CD players."

In addition to its Photo CD products, Kodak also has announced the elements of a complete CD-ROM publishing system for producing data CDs at the desktop. They include authoring software, a double-speed disc writer, and Kodak writable CD media with the InfoGuard protection system. The Kodak writable CD media system is compatible with the ISO 9660 file and volume structure, and when properly authored can be read in all standard hardware devices--including the Toshiba drives.

"Kodak is establishing itself as a leader in bringing high-quality images and authoring capabilities to the CD-ROM marketplace," Higgins said. "By identifying Toshiba products with the Photo CD trademark, we are building on the strengths of two of the most respected names in the industry."

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


Kodak CD Imaging (Photo CD) Milestones
KODAK CD IMAGING MILESTONES

March 30, 1993

The Kodak Photo CD Portfolio disc format is improved with the addition of a new feature set and authoring software. The format's new feature- which allow users to create discs containing combinations of photographic images, audio, graphics, text, and programmed access--position Photo CD Portfolio discs to become a major publishing medium for use on TV and computers.

Meridian Data, Inc., introduces the Netscribe 1000 CD writer system, built on the Kodak PCD writer 200 CD-ROM writer. The new system will allow users to send their data to the Netscribe CD writer as easily as they send data to a shared printer.

Kodak announces the Kodak PCD LAN writer 200, a turnkey system that lets any DOS or Windows user on a Novell-based Ethernet network produce standard CD-ROM discs for about four cents per megabyte.

Kodak announces the availability of Kodak writable CD media with the InfoGuard protection system. The specially treated media are designed to provide greater longevity and durability than do existing write-once or mass-produced CDs. In conjunction with the new media, Kodak also announces new writable CD publishing software for the Windows environment and Macintosh computers.

Kodak announces the availability of the DOS version of Kodak Photo CD Access software, and the Kodak Photo CD Access developer toolkit for DOS. Together, the new products promise to offer access to Photo CD images to tens of millions of DOS users worldwide.

Toshiba America Information Systems announces it signed a license to brand its CD-ROM drives with the Photo CD logo.

February 1993

Kodak starts taking orders for the Kodak Professional Photo CD Imaging Workstation 4200, for delivery beginning in June.

Kodak announces the availability of the Kodak Photo CD Acquire Module, a user-selectable plug-in that is compatible with Adobe Photoshop software. The module provides image users who wish to output their images to color separations or color printers with an improved solution for color correcting Photo CD images within Photoshop software.

January 1993

Kodak reduces the prices of its consumer Photo CD players by up to $100. The new prices are: PCD 270, $379; PCD 870, $449; PCD 5870, $549.

Kodak ships the Kodak Photo CD Access developer toolkit for the Sun/UNIX platform, which helps application developers build flexible user interfaces to images stored on Photo CD discs. The toolkit consists of a library of the basic C-language functions required to read images from a Photo CD disc into memory in formats compatible with the Sun/UNIX environment.

SuperMac, DayStar, and Sigma Designs introduce Photo CD-compatible CD-ROM and accelerator card systems that come bundled with Photo CD software.

Atari announces a Photo CD-compatible computer.

December 1992

Kodak PhotoEdge Photo CD software is shipped for Apple Macintosh and Windows computer applications. PhotoEdge software supports Photo CD, TIFF, PICT, RAW, and EPS formats and can be installed in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, and Dutch.

Users can perform basic image correction and enhancement of Photo CD images--and digital images in other formats--then print, copy, or export finished images for use in other applications.

November 1992

Kodak ships the PCD 5870 home Photo CD player with five-disc carousel and on-screen display.

Kodak upgrades Photo CD Imaging Workstations (PIWs) with productivity-improving features, including an upgrade kit to convert the PIW 2200 to a PIW 2400.

Kodak wins the International Press Association (IPA) President's Award for Photo CD.

September 1992

Kodak introduces the Kodak writable CD system, a writable compact disc-publishing system with the capability to write, store, and retrieve information on CD. Kodak's system consists of the Kodak PCD writer 200, writable CD media, and CD publishing software.

August 1992

Kodak announces a dramatically expanded Photo CD program that cuts across professional and commercial markets. The announcements include:

* Kodak Picture Exchange, a new global on-line image marketing

  service that links image buyers and sellers

* Four new Photo CD formats, Kodak Pro Photo CD Master, Photo CD

  Portfolio, Photo CD Catalog, and Photo CD Medical

* Kodak Professional Photo CD Imaging Workstation 4200, for

  large-format professional films, with features that meet the

  unique needs of professional photographers

* Kodak Photo CD Imaging Workstation 2400, with over three times

  the productivity of the existing PIW, for photofinishing labs

* Four new Kodak imaging software packages, Kodak PhotoEdge

  Shoebox, Browser, and Photo CD-enabled Renaissance

Kodak also announces that more than a dozen companies will cooperate on the development of new products and commercial applications for Photo CD and Kodak Picture Exchange products and services. These include Applied Graphic Technologies (AGT), Apple Computer, Inc., J. Paul Getty Art History Information Program, Jostens, and Sony Corporation of America.

Kodak Photo CD Access software is shipped for Apple Macintosh and Windows computer applications. Kodak also announces that it will market a newly Photo CD-enabled Kodak Renaissance Photo CD design software program.

Photo CD players become available to consumers in North America, followed by Western Europe, Japan, and other major markets.

July 1992

Kodak wins the Eduard-Rhein Foundation's 1992 Technology Award, one of Europe's most celebrated technology prizes.

June 1992

Transfer services for scanning 35 mm negatives and slides onto Photo CD discs become available in the United States through wholesale photofinaishers, retail photo stores, and commercial photo labs.

April 1992

Kodak begins delivering Kodak Photo CD Imaging Workstations to wholesale photofinishers, commercial photo labs, and photo retail stores. Delivery of PIWs meets the target set in September 1990, when Kodak first announced it would introduce the Photo CD system.

March 1992

Kodak and Apple Computer, Inc., announce that they are working together to integrate support for Photo CD images into future versions of Apple's QuickTime system software extension. QuickTime system software support for Photo CD images will provide Apple customers with direct access to Photo CD images within any Macintosh computer application.

Kodak announces that leading CD-ROM drive manufacturers Philips, Pioneer, Sony, and Toshiba will offer fully Photo CD-compatible CD-ROM drives. Drives that are certified by Kodak as fully Photo CD-compatible can carry the Photo CD logo.

February 1992

Kodak hosts its first Desktop Developer Conference in Burlingame, Calif., with the theme "Silver to Silicon: Color and Imaging in the '90s."

January 1992

Kodak and Agfa-Gevaert announce that Agfa will support the Kodak Photo CD system, licensing Photo CD technology from Kodak. Agfa will use Photo CD images as one source of input to the Agfa Digital Print System (DPS).

Kodak announces at MACWORLD Expo that the Photo CD Access developer toolkit is available.

Kodak announces that the Photo CD system will offer interactive capability when it arrives during the summer of 1992. Among other things, the new features will allow people to combine sound, text, and graphics with images and to use programmed access to interact with the contents of their Photo CD discs.

December 1991

Kodak and MCI Telecommunications announce that MCI will use Kodak writable CDs to deliver complex long-distance bills to its largest customers beginning in 1992. This is the first commercial application for CD technology developed by Kodak to support the introduction of the Photo CD system.

September 1991

Philips Interactive Media Systems announces plans to market dedicated Photo CD players beginning in 1992. Philips' CD-I players will also be Photo CD-compatible.

The Photo CD system is named "European Innovation of the Year 1991--1992" by a panel of editors of photographic journals from 13 countries.

Fuji Photo Film Company announces that it will license Photo CD technology from Kodak, thus enabling affiliated photofinishing laboratories to provide services for copying film-based images onto Photo CD discs (beginning in the fall of 1992).

August 1991

Kodak announces that the Photo CD system has received two key European honors: the "Best Design Technology" award from the Technical Image Press Association and a "Top 10 Products" award from PhotoExpo '91.

November 1990

Popular Science selects the Photo CD system for a "Best of What's New" award, honoring the year's 100 greatest achievements in science and technology.

October 1990

The Kodak Photo CD system is supported or endorsed by major developers of computer hardware and software.

At Photokina, in Cologne, Germany, Photo CD players are shown to the public for the first time, generating enormous excitement and support from trade and consumer magazines.

Kodak announces a series of developments designed to make it easy to bring Photo CD images to computer applications:

* The Kodak Photo CD Access developer toolkit, to enable software

  and hardware developers to integrate Photo CD technology into

  new and existing applications

* Kodak Photo CD Access software, a package designed to give

  users access to Photo CD images in computer applications that

  were not specifically designed with Photo CD capability

September 1990

Kodak makes initial announcement of the Kodak Photo CD system, the first cost-effective tool for digitally storing and manipulating photographs. The system allows consumers to store their pictures in a new way and view them on television. It also promises to bring photographic-quality 35 mm color or black-and-white photos into computer applications at low cost.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


PHOTO CD PRODUCTS AND FEATURES

Sharing Special Moments, and More: The Kodak Photo CD System

March 1993 -- In 1990, Kodak announced a new product that is beginning to revolutionize the world of consumer photography and desktop computing.

Delivered on schedule in August of 1992, the Kodak Photo CD system promises to do for amateur photographers what audio CDs did for music lovers: it allows consumers to enjoy their pictures in a new way. They take standard 35 mm photographs and have them scanned onto special compact discs by a photofinisher. The discs allow them to view their pictures on television using special players that also play audio CDs.

As thousands of consumers have discovered, the Photo CD system is a great new way to share special moments. But that is only one part of its promise. The ability to convert photographic images to a digital format has broad- commercial applications as well:

* Consumers can use Photo CD Master discs for commercial applications. For example, a real estate agent in Philadelphia with a hot prospect moving from Boston can send the client a disc containing photographs of available housing.

* Photo CD-compatible CD-ROM drives can read Photo CD discs when used with Photo CD-enabled software, thus giving desktop publishers a new, low-cost way to input photographs into their computers. More than 25 currently available CD-ROM drive models are Photo CD-compatible.

* The format developed for storing 35 mm photographs at full resolution can be extended to other types of images for other applications--including professional photography, catalog publishing, and medicine.

* Photo CD image files simplify the creation of "image databases," giving computer users access to images stored on-site or across national or international networks.

* The technology photofinishers use to scan photographs onto Photo CD discs has changed the economics of CD publishing--making it cost effective for many other businesses to write, distribute, and retrieve data on CDs.

Because Kodak developed Photo CD technology for both consumer and commercial applications, both types of users receive two key benefits. Affordability is one: mass production of Photo CD media leads to lower prices for all users. Cross-platform accessibility is another: using an inexpensive CDROM drive in combination with Photo CD-enabled software, computers read the Photo CD discs; and users can view the same discs used in computing applications on TV with an inexpensive home player.

In essence, the Kodak Photo CD system gives both consumers and commercial customers the best of two technologies. It provides the convenience, low cost, and image quality of traditional photography. Then it adds the benefits of digital technology--the ability to display, enhance, and transmit images electronically.

Award-Winning Technology

One of the keys to the Photo CD system's success is the way it makes complex technology seem simple. Kodak developed a number of significant advances in film scanning, image compression, software, media formulation and CD recording to make the system work. But for consumers, it's as simple to use as watching TV.

Kodak has achieved worldwide recognition for its technology innovations.

* In 1990, the system received a "Best of What's New" award from Popular Science magazine.

* In 1991, a panel of editors of photographic journals from 13 countries named the Photo CD system "European Innovation of the Year 19911992." Kodak also received the "Best Design Technology" award from the Technical Image Press Association and a "Top 10 Products" award at PhotoExpo '91.

* In 1992, the system's developers received the Eduard-Rhein Foundation's annual Technology Award, one of Europe's most celebrated technology prizes. The International Press Association (IPA) also chose the system for its President's Award.

Industry Support

Besides these numerous accolades, many major participants in the photography and computer industries have embraced the Photo CD system. Both Fuji Photo Film Company and Konica, for example, have licensed the technology for consumer photography applications. Computer giants such as Apple have announced that they will build Photo CD compatibility into their hardware and software products. Leading CD-ROM drive manufacturers-- including Philips, Pioneer, Sony, and Toshiba--are already offering Photo CD-compatible drives.

PHOTO CD PRODUCT DESCRIPTIONS

What follows is a Photo CD compendium--a list with some discussion of the various technologies comprising the complete Kodak Photo CD system, including media, software, players, and authoring systems. It also describes the Kodak writable CD system, a direct outgrowth of Photo CD technology.

Disc Formats

Kodak has applied the core technology of its Kodak Photo CD system to a variety of disc formats for specialized applications. Any disc carrying the Photo CD logo, including a mass-replicated disc made by a licensed manufacturer, can be played on a Photo CD player, a Philips CD-I player, or, with appropriate software, a compatible CD-ROM drive.

* Kodak Photo CD Master Designed for 35 mm consumer photography, the original Kodak Photo CD Master disc can hold about 100 high-resolution images, or four 24-exposure rolls of film. The discs offer image resolution as high as 2048 x 3072 pixels--16 times as great as today's TV standards, and four times the standards currently being considered for HDTV. The Kodak Photo CD Master disc can also function as a "digital negative," which means consumers can take the disc to a photofinisher to have prints made.

* Kodak Pro Photo CD Master Professional photographers use the Kodak Pro Photo CD Master disc. These discs store images from the larger film formats favored by professionals, including 120, 70 mm, and 4 x 5-inch, as well as 35 mm. Depending on the film format, the discs can hold from 25 to 100 images.

* Kodak Photo CD Portfolio Designed to become a major publishing medium, the Kodak Photo CD Portfolio disc lets people create discs that contain combinations of photographic images, stereo audio, graphics, text, and programmed access. Applications include publishing of consumer "picture stories" (such as wedding discs or family trees), business presentations, or commercial titles. Image professionals also will use the format to make custom Photo CD discs with copied or edited Photo CD images. Because the highest resolutions are not required on this format, users have more space available for other content, such as audio and graphics.

* Kodak Photo CD Catalog The Kodak Photo CD Catalog format is designed for organizations that want to store large numbers of images on a disc and distribute these images widely--such as mail-order retailers, tourism associations, or art galleries. As many as 6,000 images can be stored at video resolution on Kodak Photo CD Catalog discs for soft display on TV sets or computer monitors. (The images are of lower resolution than standard Kodak Photo CD Master discs or Kodak Pro Photo CD Master discs and can't be used to make photo-quality prints.)

KODAK PHOTO CD DISC FORMATS:

Kodak Photo CD Master

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

Content: 35mm film

Identifier: Photographic quality

Playback: Photo CD player, CD-I player,

          Photo CD-compatible CD-ROM drive with Photo CD software

Authoring System: PIW 2200 or 2400

Max# of Images: 100

Optional Features: none

Kodak Pro Photo CD Master

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

Content: 35mm, 120, 70mm, 4x5"

Identifier: Professional Photographic quality

Playback: Photo CD player, CD-I player,

          Photo CD-compatible CD-ROM drive with Photo CD software

Authoring System: PIW 2200, 2400 or 4200

Max# of Images: 100 - 25 - 6 dep. on res.

Optional Features: none

Kodak Photo CD Portfolio

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

Content: PCD or electronic image files

Playback: Photo CD player, CD-I player,

          Photo CD-compatible CD-ROM drive with Photo CD software

Authoring System: Portfolio authoring software

Max# of Images: 800

Optional Features: audio, programmed access (branching),

                   text & graphics (w/TV resolution or higher),

                   Pixel edited image

Kodak Photo CD Catalog

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

Content: PCD or electronic image files

Playback: Photo CD player, CD-I player,

          Photo CD-compatible CD-ROM drive with Photo CD software

Authoring System: Catalog authorizing software

Max# of Images: 400 - 2000 - 4000 - 16000 (depending on res.)

Optional Features: audio, programmed access (branching),

                   text & graphics, pixel edited image

Players

Consumers display their pictures by inserting their discs into a Photo CD player that they operate with a simple remote control. The viewer can select specific images, program them to appear in a particular order, rotate an image, or zoom in on part of it for a close-up.

Kodak offers three Photo CD player models, each of which has high-end audio capability, besides a unique set of picture-viewing features:

* The PCD 270 is a low-priced player with basic picture-viewing and audio CD features. It allows the viewer to delete some pictures from the playback sequence and to keep others. It also can remember the changes, which eliminates the need to program a disc each time it is viewed. An "autoplay" feature allows the player to automatically sequence through selected images at intervals of two seconds. (Suggested retail price: $379.)

* The deluxe PCD 870 player offers a variety of more advanced viewing options. Users can view close-ups of their images, selecting a rectangular portion for magnification with the "2X tele" feature. Another feature, "expanded favorite picture selection," provides additional memory for recalling the individual picture edits and viewing order selections of more discs. (Suggested retail price: $449.)

* A third model, the PCD 5870, offers all the advanced features of the deluxe version with the addition of a five-disc carousel. This player also provides on-screen display of the selected image number and other information for easy indexing and fast photo identification. (Suggested retail price: $549.)

Between March 15,1993, and September 30,1993, Kodak is offering a free coupon book worth up to $50 in Photo CD transfers to consumers who buy a Kodak Photo CD player from participating retailers.

A Kodak Photo CD player feature chart follows...

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

               KODAK PHOEO CD PLAYERS

                 Feature Comparison

Key Features                   PCD 270   PCD 870   PCD 5870

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

AUDIO & PHOTO

Direct Access                     *         *          *

Repeat                            *         *          *

Keep/Skip                         *         *          *

Multi-Disc Capability                                  *

PHOTO ONLY

Autoplay                          *         *          *

RF, Composite Video, S-Video      *         *          *

Rotate                            *         *          *

Panning                           *         *          *

FPS (Favorite Picture Selection)  *         *          *

Expanded FPS                                *          *

Picture Scan                                *          *

Full View                                   *          *

2X Tele (Crop & Enlarge)                    *          *

Insert                                      *          *

Frame On/Off                                *          *

On-Scren Display                                       *

AUDIO ONLY

Scan                               *        *          *

Shuffle                            *        *          *

1-Bit Technology (D/A Conversion)  *        *          *

Reverse Play                       *        *          *

FTS (Favorite Track Selection)              *          *

Time Edit                                   *          *

A to B                                      *          *

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

Photo CD Authoring Systems and Software

Before Kodak could offer Photo CD technology to consumers, it had to develop an authoring system that would allow photofinishers quickly and cost effectively to produce Photo CD discs. The Kodak Photo CD Imaging Workstation (PIW) 2200, the original system used by photofinishers, included a Kodak scanner, data manager (workstation), disc writer, thermal printer, and software. Today, Kodak offers two additional PIW models.

* Kodak PIW 2400 processes consumer Photo CD orders. It includes the Kodak scanner, data manager, printer, two PCD writers, and upgraded software which gives it over three times the productivity of the PIW 2200. An Auto Gate accessory allows complete rolls of film to be scanned automatically, instead of manually advancing each frame.

* Kodak Pro PIW 4200 processes orders from professional photographers or consumers. It scans large-format professional films, with features that answer professional photographers' unique needs, such as the ability to emulate the "look" professionals achieve by choosing different films. The PIW 4200 includes the Kodak Professional PCD film scanner 4045, for professional-quality image scanning.

Kodak will provide Photo CD Portfolio authoring software for photofinishers, service bureaus, or individuals who want to produce Photo CD Portfolio discs. Users can do the following:

* Copy Photo CD Master and Pro Photo CD Master discs to Kodak Photo CD Portfolio discs for low- to medium-volume distribution

* Merge images from an assortment of Photo CD Master and Pro Photo CD Master discs to new Photo CD Portfolio discs

* Produce interactive multimedia-style discs directly on the desktop in the Photo CD Portfolio format, combining photos, audio, graphics, text, and programmed access

* Edit images from Photo CD Master or Pro Photo CD Master discs using off-the-shelf image editing software and write the edited files to Photo CD Portfolio discs for storage or distribution

* Combine photographic-quality images from Photo CD Master and Pro Photo CD Master discs with other digital images to create Photo CD Portfolio discs for presentations, storage, or distribution

Software for Working with Photo CD Images

To accommodate a wide range of desktop applications, Kodak developed a family of five software products designed for all types of users. Kodak Browser Photo CD catalog software and the Kodak Shoebox Photo CD image manager provide easy search and retrieval of images stored in databases; the remaining three allow users to work with individual Photo CD images in different ways (see chart below). All five software packages are designed to have the same intuitive feel with easily identifiable icons and convenient pull-down menus. The software products also provide an easy transition between simple and more advanced functions. The chart below describes each software and its features:

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

           FAMILY OF KODAK PHOTO CD SOFTWARE

Kodak Photo CD Access

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

User: casual user of Photo CD images

Description: A low-cost tool that's designed to import Photo CD images to current applications; users can read and display Photo CD images and can crop, zoom, and rotate images.

Platform Supported: Windows, Macintosh, DOS

Price: $39.95

Kodak Photo CD Acquire Module for Adobe Photoshop

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

User: users of Photo CD images in Adobe Photoshop software wanting to control color for printing or reproduction.

Description: A low-cost plug-in for Adobe Photoshop software that increases control over color when opening Photo CD images.

Platform Supported: Macintosh with Adobe Photoshop software

Price: $59.95

Kodak PhotoEdge

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

User: Business presenters

Description: An image enhancement and correction software that lets users do more advanced image correction and improvement.

Platform Supported: Windows, Macintosh

Price: $139.00

Kodak Browser

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

User: Casual users of Photo CD images

Description: A basic image (on the Catalog disc) database package that allows easy key word search and retrieval.

Platform Supported: Software provides easy image retrieval on TV using a Photo CD or CD-I player or on any computer platform with a Photo CD-compatible drive.

Price: Included on Catalog disc

Kodak Shoebox

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

User: Users who need to search through large numbers of stored images.

Description: Helps automate the storage and retrieval of images for anyone maintaining a Photo CD image archive; users store lower-resolution thumbnail images in a database residing on their computer hard drive or similar media; images can be searched very rapidly using key words.

Platform Supported: Windows, Macintosh

Price: $399.00

Kodak Renaissance

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

User: Grahic designers

Description: An intuitive page layout package that has been upgraded to allow direct input of Photo CD images.

Platform Supported: Macintosh

Price: $695.00

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

Kodak Professional Image Library and Kodak Picture Exchange

Besides these software packages, Kodak will provide an automated disc library, or "jukebox," that holds as many as 100 Photo CD discs. The library can store thousands or hundreds of thousands of images, depending on the type of Photo CD discs it contains.

Along with the library, which will give individual customers easy access to images internally, Kodak has also announced its intent to create an on-line imaging network that will use telephone lines to link distributors of images worldwide. This service will be called the Kodak Picture Exchange

The Kodak Picture Exchange is a Kodak business that will give users access to a huge database of images, just as networks such as CompuServe provide access to text and data. With a desktop computer and a modem, users will be able to search the Kodak Picture Exchange database and request hard copies of images electronically. Kodak Picture Exchange will alert the image providers immediately, allowing them to fulfill requests promptly by air express. In the future, as the data-carrying capacity of telephone lines expands, requests may be fulfilled instantly by modem.

Kodak Writable CD System

The research that made it possible to produce photographic compact discs economically for consumers has made low-volume commercial production of data CDs viable as well.

The Kodak writable CD system is a complete compact disc publishing system that allows users to master CD-ROM discs from their desktop computers. All standard hardware devices, including CD-ROM, CD-ROM XA, CD-I, and CD audio players can read properly authored, writable CDs. With a suggested retail price of $25 for each disc, the new media provide a cost-effective alternative to other types of removable computer storage. Each writable CD stores 550-650 MB of data, text, images and/or digital audio, depending on the format, at a cost of only 4 cents per megabyte . That's the equivalent of 240,000 pages of ASCII text, 550 floppy discs, or three reels of nine-track tape all on a single, individually published disc, and all digitally accessible.

The system consists of three parts:

* The Kodak PCD writer 200 writes and reads data to and from discs at twice the speed of conventional CD writers.

* Kodak writable CD media with the InfoGuard protection system is a write-once medium that can be read in standard CD hardware devices. The InfoGuard protection system offers a carefully selected dye chemistry that resists fading from light, heat, and humidity; a protective coating that prevents scratches, dirt, rough handling, or other common mishaps from damaging the disc's readability; and a unique identification number-- printed in human readable form along with a corresponding machine-readable bar code--that provides tracking, indexing, and security advantages.

* Kodak CD publishing software allows users to publish data to writable CDs with a point-and-click of the mouse, as easily as they might copy files to a floppy disc today. Kodak software is now available to users in MS-DOS and Windows environments; Macintosh computer and Sun/UNIX versions will be available soon. The Kodak disc writers and media both support multisession recording. This means users can add data to a disc in different recording sessions. Kodak said it plans to offer multisession authoring software later this year.

Kodak writable CD products are designed to offer customers the most productive and convenient system available for low-volume CD publishing, with the added benefit of one-stop shopping from a single vendor. The system is completely open, however--Kodak media are compatible with disc writers from other manufacturers, and the Kodak PCD writer 200 works with other media.

Eastman Kodak Company, 343 State St, Rochester, NY 14650


Running MS-DOS, 6th Edition from MS Press
Running MS-DOS, 6th edition

Microsoft Press Announces All-New Edition of #1 Bestseller

RUNNING MS-DOS 6th edition--the all-new edition of the world's favorite guide to the MS-DOS operating system--now covers MS-DOS 6.

When powerful IBM and then-tiny Microsoft sat down to chat about a new kind of personal computer over a decade ago, no one outside Microsoft would have guessed that the Microsoft disk operating system (MS-DOS) would become a software standard for an entire industry.

Similarly, when Microsoft Press asked Van Wolverton to write the first edition of RUNNING MS-DOS in 1983, few suspected that a book with such an unassuming tide was destined to become the best-selling computer book for MS-DOS of all time, with sales of more than 3 million copies in 25 different languages.

Today this genuine classic--like the software--just keeps getting better and better. For many computer users, it's the only book they'll ever need. The author gently teaches beginners how to install and start the MS-DOS operating system, enter and edit commands, and work with directories, files, and disks. More experienced computer users will discover how a solid grounding in computer fundamentals will help them work smarter with other applications spreadsheets, word processors, databases--and even the Microsoft Windows' operating system!

Van's straightforward style and hands-on approach are the keys to MS-DOS mastery. In this all-new edition, his clear explanations and real-world examples help readers get the most from the broad range of version 6 built-in utilities, improved memory management, and data compression capabilities. Upgrading users will learn about all the new MS-DOS 6 features, including:

* DoubleSpace, the data-compression utility that can effectively

  double the capacity of a hard disk

* Defrag, the tool that provides a simple way to defragment

  a hard disk

* New and easier ways to back up and protect files

* MemMaker, the new memory manager that helps provide more

  memory for MS-DOS and Windows-based applications

* The new anti-virus tool

* And much, much more

Readers will also find solid coverage of earlier MS-DOS versions back to version 3.3. In addition, the command reference section of RUNNING MS-DOS, 6th edition, is one of the most complete MS-DOS command reference sections available. A handy glossary provides information about key terms, and a comprehensive index helps users quickly find information about any MS-DOS topic in the book.

About the Author

Generally recognized as "the man who wrote the book on MS-DOS," Van Wolverton has also been a newspaper reporter, editorial writer, political columnist, and technical writer. He wrote his first computer program--one that tabulated political polls--for the Idaho State Journal in Pocatello, Idaho, in 1965. His interests in computers and writing have been intertwined ever since. As a computer professional, Wolverton has worked at IBM and Intel and has written software documentation for Microsoft Corporation. He is the author of Hard Disk Management and MS-DOS Commands, both Microsoft Press Quick Reference Guides, and Supercharging MS-DOS. He was also a contributor to The MS-DOS Encyclopedia. Wolverton and his wife, Jeanne, live in a twentyfirst-century log cabin near Alberton, Montana

Special Promotions

For a limited time, retail customers get cash back on every purchase of RUNNING MS-DOS, 6th edition. To receive a six dollar rebate, purchasers of the book mail in the completed official rebate coupon (available in bookstores and in print ads) with proof of purchase and receive a check direct from Microsoft. This promotion is supported by a print advertising campaign in PC Computing, PC Magazine, and PC World.

The Win A Dream PC Sweepstakes offers exciting prizes. The grand prize winner takes home a state-of-the-art 66 MHz 486 multimedia-ready personal computer loaded with MS-DOS 6 and Microsoft Windows 3.1. Second prize winners get to choose from a fabulous selection of valuable Microsoft business software, such as Microsoft Word for Windows version 2 and Microsoft Excel for Windows version 4. Third prize winners get hours of action-packed amusement with the Windows-based computer games in the Microsoft Entertainment Pack Volume IV. Total value of prizes is over twelve thousand dollars! No purchase necessary to win. Void where prohibited or restricted by law. Details and complete contest rules are available in RUNNING MS-DOS, 6th edition at participating retailers.

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. Titles ranging from self-paced 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


SPA Lanuches NY City Billboard Campaign
Software Industry Trade Group Launches New York City Billboard Campaign to Fight Software Piracy

Lincoln Tunnel commuters will view anti-piracy message over next four months

March 30, 1993 (Washington, DC)--The Software Publishers Association (SPA) announced today that a billboard version of its widely seen "handcuffs" anti-piracy message will be displayed at the New York entrance to the Lincoln Tunnel between April 1 and July 31, 1993. The billboard states prominently, "Copy software illegally and you could get this hardware absolutely free," with an illustration of handcuffs and the tag line, "Don't Copy That Floppy." The billboard also displays SPA's toll-free number (1-800-388-7478), so that individuals can phone in confidential reports of suspected software theft.

"Despite the April Fools' Day kickoff, software piracy is no joke," said Ken Wasch, SPA executive director. "Software theft costs manufacturers more than $1.2 billion a year. This translates into fewer jobs and delays in software improvements. By increasing the public's awareness of these issues, we can track down the large offenders and also motivate companies to start monitoring themselves."

As part of its highly successful anti-piracy program, the SPA has run similar billboard campaigns in San Francisco, Chicago Atlanta, Las Vegas, Miami and the Washington, DC, subway system. The billboards usually run in conjunction with radio spots, speaking engagements and other media activities in the local area.

Wasch will be in New York for the launch of the new billboard and is expected to participate in a variety of local media events.

Billboard to capture commuters' attention both coming and going The 14-by-48-foot billboard is situated on Dyer Avenue at 41st Street, facing southeast, so that the images and messages are visible to commuters both entering and leaving New York City. The billboard leasing company reports that more than 2.65 million cars pass by each month--which means about 88,500 cars per day. The location was chosen as a prime spot to reach millions of employees who use computers on the job and whose work depends on the corporate-wide deployment of popular software programs.

SPA targets offenders in business, industry, and education The SPA has already achieved major successes in raising public awareness and in thwarting companies who persist in illegal software activities. SPA encourages companies to "clean their own house" and follows through with aggressive legal action against those who fail to do so. In line with these policies, the SPA has pursued an aggressive education effort, distributing approximately 60,000 copies of SPAudit, its Self-Audit Kit. This free package enables organizations to examine their own software practices. The SPA also offers a range of educational materials and programs designed to train managers, employees and even school-age children in the correct use of published software.

SPA initiates more than ten cases per week against suspected offenders. Fines have run up to $500,000. Since willful infringement of software copyright law can now result in a felony conviction, recent offenders may face even more severe penalties.

The Software Publishers Association is the principal trade association of the PC software industry. Its more than 1,000 members represent the leading publishers in the business, consumer, and education markets. The SPA has offices in Washington, DC, and Pans, France.

Software publishers Association

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

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


Fully Integrated Sema4 Financial 254/255 Module
Fully integrated 254/255 module now available with #1 ranked Sema4 Financial Management System

Semaphore Inc., the makers of the #1 ranked Sema4 Financial Management System has announced the first-ever fully integrated 254/255 forms module. The 254/255 module enables users to take advantage of information already entered and tracked in Sema4 to generate the government contract forms. Gone are the days of manually inputting 18 pages of information. Sema4's new 254/255 modules help you to save time since the information can be downloaded from Sema4 according to what you need. Now, not only can you now freely design invoices as you wish, create project management reports as you need them, and fully run cash and accrual accounting, you can also have the added capability to generate forms 254/255 straight from Sema4. Come see Sema4's latest module at the AEC Systems show in Anaheim, CA.

Sema4 Inc, 3 East 28th St, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10016

212-545-7300;  fax: 212-545-7443

Sema4 West, 5623 North Huddart Ave, Arcadia, CA 91006

818-579-9984;  fax: 818-579-9985


XSoft Launches European Software Business
XSoft Launches European Software Business and Introduces Its Office Productivity and Workflow Software to Europe

PALO ALTO, Calif., March 30, 1993 -- XSoft, a division of Xerox Corporation, today announced the formation of three European Business Centers and introduced its GlobalView for X office productivity and InConcert workflow software to the European marketplace. The announcements represent a strategic move by XSoft to create a major international market for its powerful, easy-to-use document management and workflow software and services.

The three European Business Centers (EBCs) have been established by XSoft to enhance the level of support for its software and services in Europe and to bring XSoft products to a larger audience. The EBCs will provide local sales, marketing, service and technical support for customers. The Northern Europe Region office is located in London; the Central Europe Region offices are located in Zurich and Dusseldorf; and the Southern Europe Region office is located in Paris. In addition, XSoft has established a European localization, manufacturing and fulfillment center in the U.K.

Stuart Bagshaw, XSoft vice president of International Operations, started, "XSoft is serious about its investment in Europe. The European market for document management, publishing, and workflow software continues to show significant growth, and European businesses are at the forefront of the search for better document creation, management and collaborative capabilities. We intend to fully address this demand with highly effective and easy-to-use software coupled with extensive service and support functions that are critical to the success of our customers. With the strong resources of Rank Xerox behind us, we estimate that a significant percentage of our revenues will come from European sales of XSoft products in 1993."

XSoft has partnered with Rank Xerox, the European arm of Xerox Corporation, in creating its European presence. Rank Xerox will continue to be a major channel of distribution for XSoft's products. XSoft will add appropriate complementary channels to deliver its broad portfolio of software products, from personal and office productivity to collaborative groupware and complex workflow and scheduling software.

With these announcements, XSoft also disclosed to Europe its strategic corporate direction of establishing an Open Document Environment that will provide improvements in the way people work with documents of all kinds. XSoft defines the Open Document Environment as one in which documents, regardless of how they were created, what form they are in, or where they reside, can be shared among all people and workgroups, without technology getting in the way.

GlobalView for X and InConcert

GlobalView for X is a powerful suite of office productivity and document management software products for UNIX workstation users in the X Windows environment. It comes with complete word processing, vector and raster graphics, simple list manager, spreadsheet and business charting capabilities, as well as work organizers, software agents, bi-directional file filters, and extensive multi-national language support. Based on an easy-to-use, object-oriented user interface, GlobalView for X provides modular, integrated applications at three levels: personal productivity applications, workgroup productivity via XSoft shared document services, and advanced, enterprise-wide collaborative document management solutions.

InConcert is sophisticated document-based workflow management software for distributed computing environments. It intuitively models and coordinates all components of a work process, including the people, procedures and information involved, and offers extensive real-time access to workflow status. InConcert automatically locates and delivers the appropriate documents and applications to the people who need to work on them at the appropriate time. InConcert serves UNIX and PC users in configurations from entry-level workgroups to enterprise-wide computing systems.

XSoft European Regional Operations Centers

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

XSoft Northern Europe is located at Parkway, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, England, SL7 1YL, Tel. 44-628-890-000.

XSoft Central Europe is located at Thurgauerstrasse 40, CH-8050 Zurich, Switzerland, Tel. 41-13-05132-9.

XSoft Southern Europe is located at 71 Rue Albert Dhalenne, 93400 Saint-Ouen, France, Tel. 33-1-40-12-64-33.

XSoft

Headquartered on a campus with PARC, the renowned Xerox research center in Palo Alto, Calif., XSoft was formed by Xerox Corporation in July 1991 to provide software that improves the way people use documents to create, capture, manage and communicate ideas and information.

XSoft develops and markets a broad range of products for document management, office productivity, structured-document publishing, workflow management, international document translation and content-based search and retrieval. In addition, XSoft enables workgroup collaboration through a series of shared document services products. The company also offers extensive product support, training and consulting services. XSoft's products and services are available on multiple operating systems, networks, and computer platforms. They are sold through a worldwide network of direct sales and reseller partners.

Uniquely positioned to utilize Xerox' document systems expertise and worldwide research and development efforts, XSoft is dedicated to turning advanced technology into leading-edge products and providing an Open Document Environment for all computer users.

XSoft, 3400 Hillview Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94304

415-424-0111;  fax: 415-813-7162


DOS For Dummies, 2nd Edition
DOS FOR DUMMIES, 2nd Ed. Continues to Demystify Computers For Non-Technical Users Everywhere

Over 2,000,000 copies in print!

San Mateo, CA--March 31, 1993--IDG Books today announced publication of DOS For Dummies, 2nd Edition, A Reference For the Rest of Us, a completely revised and updated edition of the international bestseller by Dan Gookin. Scheduled for publication simultaneously with Microsoft's new release of DOS, DOS For Dummies, 2nd Edition, includes complete information on DOS 6.

The original DOS For Dummies has over 2,000,000 copies in print and has received both critical and user acclaim worldwide. Gookin combines a humorous down-to-earth style with practical, useful information that helps users of all levels overcome their frustration with PC technology. In addition, the positive response from users has prompted

IDG Books to continue the format in a ...For Dummies series of over 10 books to date, including PC For Dummies and WordPerfect For Dummies. As Gookin comments, "This book is for you is you have absolutely no intention of ever becoming a DOS wizard, or any other system for that matter. If all you need is to find the answer to that one tiny question and be on with your life, then this is the book you're looking for."

As PC prices drop and computers become more integral to our lives, the number of users continues to rise. However, when it comes to DOS a great deal of confusion still reigns. In fact, you can be a member of Mensa and still not understand AUTOEXEC.BAT. From turning the computer on to organizing files, Gookin has organized DOS For Dummies so users can flip to the section that pertains to their immediate problem, find the solution and continue on. Easy to recognize icons point out shortcuts, specific DOS 6 information, and more complicated technical material in each chapter. In response to the first edition, Gookin has also addressed specific reader requests, including more comprehensive information on modems and Windows. Once again illustrations by award-winning cartoonist Richard Tennant are interspersed throughout the book to improve users' moods and hopefully prevent that pesky PC from being pitched out the window. Also included in the book are a handy quick reference card of common DOS commands and essentials, a keyboard template, and a bookmark.

DOS For Dummies, 2nd Edition also covers:

* All versions of DOS, including DOS 6

* How to find that lost file and get back your program when

  it crashes

* How to handle error messages in DOS--and when to panic

* Dan's Top Ten Lists of DOS Tips:

  -Ten Common Beginner Mistakes

  -Ten Things You Shouldn't Ever Do

  -Ten Programs that Make Life Easier

* A glossary of terms, with clear explanations to complex

  terminology

The original DOS For Dummies has been called "The best book ever written for a beginner." Voted the MTV Computer Book of the Year in the United Kingdom and the #3 bestselling trade paperback on UPI's Arts & Entertainment Booklist, DOS For Dummies has elicited widespread praise such as:

"This is the best book ever written for a beginner. I know. I have all the rest."--Clarence Petersen of the Chicago Tribune

"DOS For Dummies is the ideal book for anyone who's just bought a PC and is too shy to ask friends stupid questions."--MTV, Computer Book of the Year, United Kingdom

"DOS For Dummies has been a life saver. Without it I would have thrown the computer out the back door."--Lou Creekmur, Plantation, Florida

"This book is responsible for my job credibility and a big fat raise."--Al Natanagara, Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts

"Great reference book! Didn't go into a trance like I do reading DOS User's Guide and Reference. Can't wait for the movie to come out."--Christopher Kurka, Brook Park, Ohio

Dan Gookin has authored numerous bestselling computer books including WordPerfect For Dummies, and has coauthored PCs For Dummies. He is writing the upcoming WordPerfect 6 For Dummies, Word for Windows For Dummies, and Learn C For Dummies.

Other . ..For Dummies books include: OS/2 For Dummies, 1-2-3 For Dummies, Macs For Dummies, Windows For Dummies, UNIX For Dummies, and Excel For Dummies.

IDG Books Worldwide publishes high quality computer books that bring extra value and skill-building instruction to the reader. The company applies the technical, market, and editorial knowledge of IDG, the leading publisher of technology periodicals, to provide timely and useful computer books that meet the needs of computer users of all levels. IDG Books Worldwide is the fastest growing computer book publisher with over 40 titles in print and foreign translations in over 17 languages.

Headquartered in Boston, MA, International Data Group is the world's largest publisher of computer-related information and the leading global provider of information services on information technology. International Data Group publishes over 180 computer publications in more than 58 countries, including such titles as PC World, InfoWorld, Macworld, & Computerworld. Thirty million people read one or more IDG publications each month.

DOS For Dummies, 2nd Edition, by Dan Gookin

Price: $16.95 USA, $21.95 Canada, 15.45 UK & Eire

ISBN: 1-878058-75-4  Pub. Date: March'93

Specs: 316 pages, 7 3/8" x 9 1/4"

IDG Books are available wherever computer books are sold or direct from the publisher at (800) 762-2974, 8a.m.-5p.m. PST. For reseller discounts and information, contact IDG Books at (415) 312-0650.

IDG Books Worldwide, 155 Bovet Rd, Suite 610, San Mateo, CA 94402

415-312-0650,  Fax: 415-358-1260


QuickMail 2.6 Shipping, Now Native to Windows
CE Software Ships QuickMail 2.6

QuickMail Now Native to Windows

West Des Moines, IA, March 26, 1993 - CE SOFTWARE HOLDINGS, INC. (NASDAQ/NMS Symbol:CESH) today announced the North American release of QuickMail version 2.6, CE's new release of its cross platform E-mail package. QuickMail 2.6 encompasses clients for multiple platforms including the newly-developed Windows E-mail client, as well as a new, free server and added network administration tools, all in one box.

"We should have called it 3.0," said Ford Goodman, the company's Executive Vice President. "We started over a year ago with the goal of rewriting our mail server. We have added such robust administration tools, and the server runs so much faster, 3.0 would have been a more accurate designation for the product."

The release of QuickMail 2.6 is the baseline for future mail, messaging and groupware development at CE Software. CE has recognized, and stands ready to capitalize on, a clear and present dynamic changing the messaging industry: Mail transports are becoming standard components of virtually every important local area network operating system. While continuing to provide the de facto Macintosh standard mail transport in QuickMail 2.6, CE has announced support for Apple's Open Collaborative Environment (AOCE) and Novell's Message Handling Service (MHS) and NetWare Global MHS. Since CE provides its server free as a part of the QuickMail offering, CE is very well prepared to effectively deal with the industry changes Apple and Novell are pioneering. "As other mail transports in network operating systems become commercially viable, we will support them as well," said Goodman. "The key to our strategy is that we will allow our customers to choose the mail transport most suitable for them, whether it be ours or one offered by a network operating system vendor. This approach is unique in the industry."

QuickMail, with an installed base of almost 1,000,000 users world-wide has, since its inception, been known as the industry's leading Macintosh E-mail package. Customers, resellers and reviewers alike cite the outstanding user interface as the primary reason for QuickMail's success. QuickMail 2.6 extends this award-winning interface to all Intel-based users, with the inclusion of the QuickMail Windows client and through upgrades of the DOS and Macintosh clients. Now everyone, regardless of PC type, may take advantage of the interface consistently reviewed as the finest, most intuitive ever designed for any mail client platform.

QuickMail 2.6 includes server software, Windows, DOS, and Macintosh client software, remote access, forms creation, mail filing, real-time on-screen conferencing, gateways and more. QuickMail is consistently a winner in E-mail reviews. Recent awards include PC Week Analyst's Choice, Macworld Editors' Choice and Macworld's World Class Award.

"This new version of QuickMail 2.6 reflects our emphasis on total quality. We completely rearchitected the mail transport and administration of our mail server," said Ned Horvath, CE's Messaging Team Director. "The server has been revised to address the operating system most effectively. It is a very modular piece of code that can be maintained and evolved efficiently. We have added key network administration tools such as "Move User" and remote administration that will make QuickMail as easy to administer as it is to use. For example, adding, changing or deleting users can now be done from any station, including remote locations. The new "Move User" makes it a snap to transfer users and their mail to a new MailCenter. And, the new Mail Authentication Tool provides back-up and robust housekeeping administration for MailCenters."

Network Status Displays have been significantly enhanced to include current processes and their progress, and a heartbeat display to show the level of activity present. QuickMail 2.6 works with AppleShare 3.0 and 3.0.1 and System 7 File Sharing. On high end Quadras, QuickMail 2.6 supports hundreds of simultaneous, multi-platform users with up to 32 concurrent server transactions.

DOS users will be especially pleased with improved performance and with mail verification capabilities. Performance of sorting functions has increased by a factor of up to 30 times.

Support for third party developers that provide add-ons to QuickMail 2.6 continues. QuickMail 2.6 enables enhanced directory services with third party supplied "Find" functions. QuickMail 2.6 is capable of automatically connecting with GE Information Services drivers for improved connections to AppleLink. This is in addition to existing automatic connections to CompuServe, MCI-Mail and more. Third party support for QuickMail 2.6 includes connections to X.400, UUCP, SMTP, PROFS, MHS and dozens of others.

Mr. Goodman also stated, "In efforts to gain maximum exposure for QuickMail 2.6, we are introducing Connect Now, a revolutionary marketing program that allows resellers everywhere to provide a free five-user copy of the new QuickMail 2.6 on every LAN with which they make contact. The QuickMail Connect Now program does much more than "seed" software. The program provides our channel partners with a free method to add value for customers. We will follow this announcement with international availability as translations are completed. We are so confident of the robust feature set and ease-of-use of QuickMail that we are prepared to show every potential E-mail customer worldwide that CE Software is the technology leader. We are optimistic that QuickMail 2.6 will enable CE Software to expand upon the current installed base of almost 1,000,000 users and continue its success as a leader in the electronic mail market."

QuickMail 2.6 is available immediately through CE's Certified Resellers and through domestic distribution channels. International versions of 2.6 will be available later this spring. International users should contact their local distributors for pricing and availability. CE will continue to bundle a 5-pack of ON Technology's award-winning group scheduling package, Meeting Maker, for the foreseeable future.

United States and Canada users of Version 2.5 and above can upgrade to 2.6 for a nominal fee of $40/site, which includes shipping, a full set of manuals and disks to upgrade an unlimited set of QuickMail users. The upgrade from QuickMail 2.2.x and below is $12 per user. QuickMail 2.6 retails for $649 for a 10-user pack. Users who purchased the product after January 1, 1993 will receive a free upgrade pack, subject to product registration and proof of purchase.

Macintosh Systems 6.0.5 and 7 and above are supported as well as DOS 3.1 and above and Windows 3.1. AppleTalk, Novell Netware, Banyan, Microsoft and other networks are supported. Conferencing is only available on AppleTalk networks.

CE Software is the leading Macintosh electronic mail supplier and a rapidly expanding developer of system-enhancing software and network productivity tools for the Macintosh and Windows/DOS markets. CE Software' s major products include QuickMail (with almost one million users worldwide), QuicKeys (the award-winning macro program for Macintosh), ProKey (a scripting product for the Windows and DOS environments), DiskTop (a Finder/Launcher for the Windows and Macintosh environments) and CalendarMaker (a popular calendar publishing application for both Macintosh and Windows platforms).

CE Software Inc

1801 Industrial Circle, PO Box 65580, West Des Moines, IA 50265

515-224-1995;  fax: 515-224-4534;  CIS: 76136,2137

AOL/MCI-Mail/AppleLink: CESOFTWARE


FileRunner Automates & Safeguards File Transfer
IF YOU WORK ON MORE THAN ONE MAC... YOU NEED FILERUNNER FOR THE MAC

McMurray, PA,..The FileRunner program solves a critical problem faced by anyone who uses more than one Macintosh and needs to get the latest versions of his important files onto all of the Macs he uses. Designed to automate and safeguard file transfer, the FileRunner program is simply the best way to move files from your office to your home to your PowerBook, or even to networked computers.

The FileRunner program creates an "invisible network" between all of your desktops and PowerBooks. Through a unique combination of functions, it is the only replication program that provides true synchronization. With Tru-Sync, FileRunner synchronizes any number of Macs you use, not just two. It automatically identifies and transfers updated and new files/folders. It is the only application to synchronize deleted files/folders across all your Macs. And it protects data with exclusive Overwrite Safeguard. Overwrite Safeguard never allows older files to destroy current versions and warns you if the same file is changed on more than one computer. You no longer need to worry about accidentally overwriting important information during transfer. This valuable combination of features is found only in the FileRunner system.

FileRunner transfers files using a simple floppy disk or any disk you can see on your Macintosh desktop. This includes removable hard drives, cartridges, AppleShare servers, or remote disks using AppleTalk Remote Access. The program performs either one way or bidirectional file transfer. FileRunner also creates a customized log of all transfers, providing a comprehensive audit trail.

A built-in data compression option allows you to efficiently pack large amounts of data on 31/2" diskettes during file transfer. Users can also, as an option, enable Virex virus scanning during file transfer.

The FileRunner application also compensates for changes in time zones. For example, if you take your Los Angeles PowerBook to your Pittsburgh office, FileRunner knows that the 9AM Los Angeles file is a later version of the 11AM Pittsburgh file. The L. A. file will transfer over the Pittsburgh file, maintaining the integrity of your data. FileRunner also warns you if your computer clocks are inaccurate.

EASE OF USE

FileRunner for the Mac is very easy to use. Once you complete the setup, there is no need to get involved with remembering files and folders. The application tracks all of this information and automatically knows how and where to find your files. Balloon help is available under System 7.

SUGGESTED APPLICATIONS

If you transfer data between Macs, the FileRunner application gives you the security of knowing that you will always have the latest information with you, and that the transfer will be safe and efficient. You do not need to use inconvenient unwieldy cables, and the computers do not have to be in close proximity. It can be used by anyone who works with one computer at the office and another at home, by a person who travels with a PowerBook who needs to update his desktop at his office when he returns, or by a consultant or salesman who has to work in geographically separated locations.

Because FileRunner for the Macintosh can perform one way or bi-directional synchronization, it is an ideal application for schools with computer labs. Teachers can use the application to distribute the same files and information to all of their students' computers.

Similarly, network administrators can distribute updated files and information to clients on the network, and these users can update shared information on the server.

Offices with multiple Macs can use the application in lieu of networks. If a network already exists, FileRunner provides a convenient means of transferring or deleting files between networked Macs and any stand-alone desktop or portable Macs that you use. File transfers using FileRunner for the Mac are so easy to perform that no special skills are needed. And, if you use diskettes as the transfer medium, the FileRunner program automatically provides a "bonus" backup of your critical files.

FileRunner is licensed to a single user. This licensee may install and use the application for his exclusive use on all the computers on which he works.

PRODUCT FEATURES

Transfer and Update

* Tru Sync, automates and safeguards file transfer by:

  - Synchronizing any number of Macs you use, not just two

  - Automatically identifying and transferring updated and new

    files/folders

  - Synchronizing deleted files/folders across all your Macs

  - Protecting data with exclusive Overwrite Safeguard

    . Warns you if the same file has been changed on more than

      one computer

    . Never allows older files/folders to destroy current

      versions

* Creates a customized log of all transfers, providing an audit

  trail of which Macintosh a file is being transferred from and

  where the most recent version of the file was created, last

  updated, or deleted

* Transfers the latest files one way or bi-directionally enabling

  you to update the data you choose to synchronize

* Automatically compresses files, giving you more data on your

  Runner diskettes

Safety Features

* Automatically scans files for viruses during transfer using

  Virex

* Employs advanced error checking to ensure accurate file

  transfer

* Provides an incidental "bonus" backup of important files since

  the most recent versions of files are always on your Runner

  diskette

Ease of Use

* Balloon help available throughout the program under System 7

* Remembers where files/folders reside on each of your Macs,

  automatically updating files in their correct folders

* Has easy-to-understand error and diagnostic messages Works with

  all Macs, including networked Macs

Time Functions

* Compensates for differences in Time Zones

* Warns you of computer clock inaccuracy

No other software on the market will do all this!

The FileRunner package contains a 3-1/2" FileRunner application diskette, a complete easy-to-read User's Guide and a warranty card. The introductory price is $99.95.

Distribution is through Merisel, Kenfil, Tech Data, Software Resource, Daisycom, J. B. Marketing (Canada) and other distributors. Product is also available through chain stores such as Egghead, CompUSA, Computer City, Electronics Boutique, Circuit City, SILO, The Wiz, Fedco, Elek Tek, Fry's Electronics, Micro Center and others.

The FileRunner programs, DOS and Mac versions, are the flagship products of MBS Technologies, Inc. The company, founded by Bernee D. L. Strom and Martin M. Batt in 1991, publishes computer software that improves the productivity of users in today's multicomputer environment.

MBS Technologies, 4017 Washington Rd. #4000; McMurray, PA 15317

800/860-8700 or 412/941-9076;  FAX: 412/941-7076.


GUI Code-Generation Utility for LabWindows V2.3
New Graphical User Interface Code-Generation Utility Added to LabWindows Version 2.3

User Interface Enhancements and Larger Data Acquisition Arrays Also Added to LabWindows Version 2.3

March 29, 1993 - Austin, TX - National Instruments today announced the new Version 2.3 of its LabWindows automatic code-generating software for DOS instrumentation applications. The primary enhancement to LabWindows Version 2.3 is the new user interface CodeBuilder, an interactive prototyping and program-generation utility to help LabWindows users automatically design and build programs with graphical user interfaces (GUIs). LabWindows 2.3 also includes enhancements to the User Interface Library, new graph and cursor controls, and new hardware control and memory management features in the Data Acquisition Library. The new version will control only IEEE 488.2-compatible boards to take advantage of the latest standard for instrument control specifications.

CodeBuilder Jumps Event-Driven Programming Hurdle to Simplify GUI Development and Manipulation

The new user interface CodeBuilder simplifies somewhat complicated features of earlier versions of LabWindows - having to learn event-driven programming techniques to manipulate the graphic displays. In previous versions, users could quickly define complex GUIs using graphs, strip charts, pushbuttons, and controls on multiple panels to be controlled from a single program. However, these graph displays had to be manipulated using event-driven programming - a new concept for engineers and scientists who are not professional programmers. Before LabWindows users could develop code to acquire, analyze, or present data, they had to first display the appropriate graphic panels and create the programming structure to respond to any events (for example, mouse clicks or keyboard entries) on these displays from their program.

The new user interface CodeBuilder automates the process of manipulating graphic panels and responding to events from these panels, overcoming many problems novice users had in getting started with event-driven programming techniques. CodeBuilder generates structured and easy-to- understand source code, so that novice programmers can quickly become proficient in GUI control and event-driven programming methodologies. Experienced LabWindows users also benefit from using CodeBuilder - they can save hours of development time and effort by automatically generating the initial framework of new applications.

How CodeBuilder Works

CodeBuilder acts as a simple translator from English to C or BASIC. Users can prototype their programs quickly and easily, and convert the prototype automatically into a C or BASlC program. After users create a GUI consisting of buttons, graphs, strip charts, indicators, and menu bars, they use CodeBuilder to interactively design and generate the program for controlling that GUI. CodeBuilder makes it easy for users to control complex user interfaces, featuring many different graphics panels, pop-up screens, and menu bars, all from a single program. Users simply map out the structure of their program in CodeBuilder by selecting from options to display different graphics panels and respond to mouse and keyboard events.

LabWindows users can simulate the operation of their program designs before they write a single line of code, using a test option available in CodeBuilder. Once satisfied with the operation of the outline, users convert it into standard C or BASIC source code automatically. The resulting program is a structured, commented C or BASIC language program controlling the user interface displays and event-handling tasks. The user simply inserts lines of code into the shell for acquiring data from instruments, analyzing the data, and directing the results to different controls on the GUI to complete the program.

User Interface Library Enhancements

Version 2.3 adds improved functionality to graph controls and cursors in the User Interface Library (UIL). Users can now control individual traces within a multitrace graph, and display or delete a single data trace on a graph without affecting any existing data on the graph. Graph cursor control is improved in LabWindows 2.3 with functions for returning indexed data values, changing active traces, and hiding cursors programmatically. The UIL and editor also now have 256 color performance. In addition to displaying 256 color PCX images, users can now set their own color palette RGB values using the new functions.

Data Acquisition Library Enhancements

Customers using the AT-DSP2200 will be able to acquire several channels of data with a multifunction data acquisition board and transfer the data directly into DSP board memory through a high-speed serial Real Time System Integration (RTSI) bus connection to the AT-DSP2200. In addition, using new memory management functions added in the data acquisition library, users can access extended memory for allocating arrays for data acquisition operations, breaking the former 64K array size limitation in LabWindows for data acquisition. In addition, LabWindows Version 2.3 now controls a new group of digital I/O signal conditioning modules in the company's SCXI product line.

Moving to IEEE 488.2

To provide better maintenance and support for the company's GPIB instrument users, LabWindows 2.3 will control only IEEE 488.2-compatible controller boards. IEEE 488.2 is the latest GPIB standard that includes new commands for system configuration and querying in addition to handling all IEEE 488.1 style calls. Through the company's IEEE 488.2 upgrade program, any current LabWindows user upgrading to Version 2.3 can also upgrade their GPIB controller board to a National Instruments IEEE 488.2-compatible board at no extra charge. First-time LabWindows 2.3 buyers can upgrade their GPIB controller hardware for a nominal charge.

Pricing, Availability, and More Information

LabWindows 2.3 will be available in April from National Instruments for $1,495 for the full development package. Existing LabWindows customers may purchase the LabWindows 2.3 upgrade package for $295.

For more information about LabWindows, please contact National Instruments, 6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Austin, TX 78730-5039, (512) 794-0100. Call toll-free in the U.S. or Canada at (800) 433-3488. Fax: (512) 794-8411.


Upgrade to IEEE 488.2 with LabWindows DOS V2.3
Upgrade to IEEE 488.2 Affordably with New LabWindows for DOS Version 2.3

March 29, 1993 - Austin, TX - National Instruments, the leading supplier of GPIB interfaces, today announced an extension to its IEEE 488.2 hardware upgrade program in conjunction with the announcement of its new LabWindows for DOS Version 2.3 software. Through this program, current LabWindows users can trade in their existing National Instruments GPIB controller interface for a free National Instruments IEEE 488.2 controller kit when they upgrade to LabWindows Version 2.3. First-time LabWindows 2.3 buyers are also offered an affordable upgrade path - they can exchange their current GPIB controller for an IEEE 488.2 controller kit for a nominal upgrade fee, which typically ranges from $150 to $250. Since 1991, the company has upgraded thousands of GPIB instrument control users to the latest GPIB standard, IEEE 488.2.

Why IEEE 488.2?

Like many other key instrumentation vendors, National Instruments has invested heavily to make the new IEEE 488.2 and Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI) standards work for customers today. IEEE 488.2 defines precise communication specifications between controllers and instruments, increasing productivity and reliability of test systems. Built upon IEEE 488.2, SCPI standardizes the command sets used by instruments from all manufacturers, opening the door to true instrument interchangeability and virtual instrumentation for GPIB users.

LabWindows 2.3 controls only IEEE 488.2-compatible GPIB interfaces, ensuring that all LabWindows users capitalize on the flexibility and reliability of modern instrument control standards. Industry-standard NI-488.2 software for DOS and Windows is included with each IEEE 488.2 kit controller kit. NI-488.2 is completely compatible with the IEEE 488.2 standard, and includes a set of routines based on the IEEE 488.2 command sequences and protocols. Moving to complete IEEE 488.2 compatibility means the company can also provide better maintenance and technical support for LabWindows GPIB users.

Pricing and Availability, and for More Information

The LabWindows 2.3 Full Development System is available now for $1,495. The Base Package configuration, without the Advanced Analysis Library, is available for $695. All existing LabWindows users, regardless of which version they are using, can upgrade to LabWindows 2.3 for $295. Complete details on the IEEE 488.2 Upgrade Program are included with the LabWindows 2.3 Upgrade Information kit.

For more information about upgrading to LabWindows 2.3 and IEEE 488.2 controller hardware and software, please contact National Instruments, 6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Austin, TX 78730-5039, (512) 794-0100, fax: (512) 794-8411. Call toll free in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 433-3488.


LabWindows Version 2.3 Enhancements List

Summary of Major Enhancements

1. User interface CodeBuilder utility

2. Improved graph control and graph cursor functionality

3. 256 color performance

4. User Interface Library enhancements

5. New debugging and editing features

6. Data Acquisition Library enhancements

7. Utility Library enhancements

8. Instrument Library additions

Detailed Enhancement Descriptions

1. New User Interface CodeBuilder Utility - With LabWindows Version 2.3, users can design programs and generate source code automatically with the new CodeBuilder utility. After LabWindows users create a graphical user interface (GUI) in the User Interface Editor, CodeBuilder provides tools to build an outline of a Program to control the GUI quickly and easily. Users simply choose from a list of possible actions to interactively outline the structure of their program. For example, options such as 'Display Panel,' 'Load Menu Bar,' 'Set Up Event Loop,' and 'Respond to Event' are provided for outlining event-driven programs. Using CodeBuilder, developers prototype their programs quickly and easily, generating a shell Program in C or BASIC source code which can then be edited and completed in the LabWindows program window or any other text editor.

Available under the Options menu in the LabWindows development environment, CodeBuilder adds a vital step in the application development cycle in LabWindows. Once launched, CodeBuilder consists of two main text boxes - the Generation Options window and the Code window. Users paste choices from the Generation Options window into the Code window to design the structure of their program. The options listed in the Generation Options window change based on the structure of the user interface for the program. For example, the LoadMenuBar option will not be displayed if the user interface resource (.UIR) file built by the user does not contain a menu bar. Users then build an outline of their program, defining the steps to load and display their graphics panels, set up event loops, and respond to each event.

At any time during this design process, users can test the operation of their outline with CodeBuilder. The Test Template option in CodeBuilder executes the program outline in the code window, so users can determine if their program outlines are designed properly before they write a single line of C or BASIC source code. When satisfied with the outline, users select the Generate Source Code option to convert the outline into C or BASIC source code. The result is a structured, commented program that displays user interface panels and contains event loops for responding to mouse or keyboard events. Users then use the LabWindows function panels to complete the program by inserting lines of code into the shell for acquiring and analyzing data and directing the results to GUI controls.

2. Improved Graph Control and Graph Cursor Functionality - LabWindows Version 2.3 adds improved functionality to graph controls and cursors in the User Interface Library. You can now control individual traces within a multitrace graph. For example, users can display or delete a single data trace on a graph without affecting existing data on the graph. Graph cursors can retrieve or be set to an index within a particular data array being plotted, in addition to returning their absolute x and y coordinate values. Using a new set of geometric graphing functions for creating and filling rectangles, ovals, arcs, and circles, users can build their own custom graph displays or pie charts. The following functions in the User Interface Library have been added or enhanced to work with the new graph and cursor control capabilities:

PlotX, PlotY, PlotXY, PlotWaveform, and PlotPoint have been changed to return a handle for each array plotted. These functions also accept unsigned bytes, integers, and long data types for graphing interpretation.

   DeleteGraphPlot

   GetGraphCursorIndex

   SetGraphCursorIndex

   GetAxisRange

   SetAxisRange

   PlotRectangle

   PlotOval

   PlotArc

   PlotLine

   PlotPolygon

3. 256 Color Performance - The LabWindows User Interface Library and editor now has 256 color performance. In addition to displaying 256 color PCX images, with a new set of functions in the User Interface Library, users can set their own color palette RGB values. In other words, users can configure each of the 256 possible colors used in LabWindows with unique RGB color values. PostScript output and video adapter capability have been updated to include 256 color performance as well. New functions include:

   SetColorPaletteValue

   GetColorPaletteValue

4. Miscellaneous User Interface Library Enhancements - Product developers using LabWindows to develop executable programs for distribution will benefit from new functions in the User Interface Library that determine the current graphics adapter mode of the system. Developers can create different user interfaces for their programs, optimized for standard VGA mode, 800 x 600 mode, or 1,024 x 768 mode, and dynamically load the correct GUI based on results from the GetGraphicsMode function.

Scale controls can now be sized in the User Interface Editor.

Ring controls are more flexible with the new GetCtrlIndex function. With this function, users can retrieve the index, label, and value corresponding to a particular item in a ring control.

5. Improved Editing and Debugging Features - The new LWMAKE utility for building executables in LabWindows Version 2.3 includes added flexibility to become a true make utility. Users can directly edit any file listed in your make list from LWMAKE, including source files, .UIR files, and include files, by double clicking on the file name. You can even link your own text editor into LWMAKE for editing your source files. In addition, the LabWindows programming environment features new debugging tools for setting automatic and dynamic breakpoints. The breakpoint on error mode automatically traps any errors or warnings returned from a LabWindows function during program execution. With dynamic breakpoint capability, LabWindows users can choose to trace through each line of code individually, step through sections of code quickly, or insert breakpoints in the code during execution without having to recompile the program. The result of these new debugging features is a faster, more efficient troubleshooting phase of program development.

6. Data Acquisition Library Enhancements - We've added a set of memory management functions in the Data Acquisition Library for arrays larger than 64K in data acquisition operations. With these new functions, users can allocate extended memory for data acquisition operations and use a handle to these memory locations when actually acquiring data.

Developers using the AT-DSP2200 can acquire several channels of data with a multifunction board, such as the AT-MIO-16X or AT-MIO-64F-5, and stream the data directly to DSP memory over the RTSI bus for high-speed signal processing in Version 2.3.

Control for a new family of signal conditioning modules for controlling digital relays or performing digital I/O operations from SCXI is incorporated in the Data Acquisition Library in Version 2.3.

7. Utility Library Additions - New functions in the Utility Library are designed for users who need to develop custom file-selection pop-up dialog boxes. With the functions GetFirstFile and GetNextFile, users can quickly create a list of files existent in a particular directory. In addition, all file copying, deleting, and naming functions in the Utility Library have been updated to understand file selection wildcards (such as the '*' character).

8. Instrument Library Additions - The LabWindows Instrument Library continues to grow through the efforts of the Instrument Library Developers Program (LDP). The LDP is a program to help manufacturers write LabWindows instrument drivers for GPIB, RS-232, CAMAC, or VXI instruments. The LabWindows Instrument Library is updated quarterly with new drivers. The latest update adds over 30 new instruments to the library, including instruments from HewlettPackard, Tektronix, LeCroy, and Schlumberger. The total number of instrument drivers in the LabWindows Instrument Library is approximately 300.

National Instruments

6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Austin, TX 78730-5039

512-794-0100;  800-433-3488;  fax: 512-794-8411


LabWindows 2.3 Product Feature

by John Pasquarette, LabWindows marketing manager

   National Instruments

   6504 Bridge Point Parkway

   Austin, TX 78730-5039

   (512) 794-0100 fax: (512) 794-8411

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

LabWindows Version 2.3 Simplifies GUI Coding

LabWindows Version 2.3 is an exciting new utility to help you quickly and easily develop event-driven programming related to graphical user interfaces (GUIs). In addition to library enhancements, LabWindows 2.3 features a new utility called CodeBuilder for simplifying event-driven programming. With CodeBuilder, LabWindows users can design and test their programs quickly and easily in minutes, replacing the hours of development time required in past versions.

LabWindows 2.0, released in April 1991, opened the door to event-driven programming for many scientists and engineers. The User Interface Editor introduced in this version made it possible for anyone to create sophisticated graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for their programs. Users quickly discovered that they could combine multiple panels within a single program, creating a truly dynamic look and feel to their applications during run time. However, some users had trouble deciding which functions to use from the User Interface Library to display and control their GUIs. Also, many scientists and engineers had never written an event-driven program before, and had trouble structuring their programs to recognize mouse or keyboard events and respond to them accordingly. CodeBuilder addresses of all these issues.

CodeBuilder Takes the Mystery Out of Event Loops

CodeBuilder helps users create an outline, then generates the code for event-driven programming. Available in LabWindows 2.3, CodeBuilder represents a new step in the application development process in LabWindows. Once users have created their GUI in LabWindows, they launch CodeBuilder to set up their program shell or outline and then generate the actual event-driven code. CodeBuilder has a list of simple options from which users choose to interactively build their program outline. For a simple GUI containing a single panel, CodeBuilder automatically generates the code to load the panel into memory, displays it, and sets up an event loop to respond to all possible events on that panel.

While developers use CodeBuilder to outline their programs, they can interactively test their work without writing a single line of code in C or BASIC. By selecting "Test Template" from the options menu in CodeBuilder, users can actually see how their programs will run based on the outline they have defined in CodeBuilder. CodeBuilder acts as a prototyping tool for LabWindows users to design the structure of their program. Once satisfied with their program outline, users simply select Generate Source Code from the options menu to automatically convert their program outline into a C or BASIC source file.

The output from CodeBuilder is a structured, commented C or BASIC program that loads and displays GUI panels and sets up event loops to respond to any events on these panels. Developers can then use LabWindows function panels to insert single lines of code into this program to acquire, analyze, and present their data. With the addition of CodeBuilder, LabWindows can generate the source code for the majority of your programs.

256 Color Graphics Compatibility

Using PCX images to enhance a LabWindows GUI is a common technique in LabWindows. However, the color palette from Windows Paint and color palettes used by LabWindows were not always compatible, leading to PCX images with blue and red colors reversed. In LabWindows 2.3, the User Interface Editor can interpret a Windows-based PCX image and automatically switch the blue and red values in the color palette. In addition, LabWindows 2.3 now handles 256 colors. And, users can even programmatically set or change the color palette to match specific RGB values.

Graph Controls and Cursors Get an Overhaul

LabWindows graph controls and graph cursors received an overhaul in LabWindows 2.3 and are now much more functional interactive graphics tools. In the past, graph controls handled all data the same way once it was displayed on a graph. Users did not have access to individual data traces on a graph control. For example, a user could not delete a single trace from a multiplot graph, or programmatically set cursors to snap to a particular data trace.

All plotting functions in LabWindows 2.3 have been restructured to return a handle for each array plotted on a graph. Therefore, users have total control over each individual plot on a graph. Users can delete individual traces on a graph, snap cursors to a specified trace, and even get the index of the plotted array to which the cursor is snapped. We've also added tools for plotting geometric shapes, such as squares, rectangles, ovals, and arcs, on graph controls. With these new geometric functions, users can annotate displayed data easier, or even build their own bar and pie charts in LabWindows.

Improved Debugging and Editing

We have found that the only way to support our products better than through our applications engineers support line is to make it easier for users to find solutions to their own problems. LabWindows now has dynamic breakpoint capability for faster, more efficient debugging. At any time during program execution, users can pause to insert a breakpoint and then continue without recompiling your code. In addition, a new debugging mode called Breakpoint on Error automatically traps and displays any errors returned by a LabWindows function. The LabWindows environment can do error checking for you!

For stand-alone library users, LWMAKE is now a truly flexible application management tool, featuring dynamic editing of any source, .UIR, or header files in a file list. Simply double click on the filename to invoke the appropriate editor. Users can even link their favorite text editor into LWMAKE for editing source files.


XVT-Design 2.0 & XVT-Design++ Announced
XVT-Design Release 2.0 Debuts

With major new features for the layout, testing and generation of GUIs, XVT-Design 2.0 increases productivity dramatically for cross-platform developers. It will begin shipping in April.

"Release 2.0 provides a great leap in functionality that makes XVT developers more productive," said Roger Oberg, XVT's Director of Marketing.

Together with the XVT Portability Toolkit, XVT-Design 2.0 delivers an advanced, easy-to-use solution for portable GUI development.

New time-saving features allow the developer to:

* Enter, edit, and maintain application-specific behavior code within XVT-Design. The Action Code Editor makes defining the connections and actions easy, while ensuring the code is preserved during regeneration. Connections and any function calls you add are automatically included in the generated code and maintained as part of the interface definition. This eliminates the need to modify generated code or merge changes when the GUI is changed.

* Instantly see how the interface will work. TestMode lets you view the appearance and behavior of the user interface and check connections between windows, dialogs, controls, and menus without leaving XVT-Design. The resulting project file may be opened in XVT-Design on other platforms. WYSIWYG is provided by native control rendering. The ability to switch instantly between design and TestMode greatly improves productivity compared to the typical edit-compile-link-execute cycle.

Other key features include:

* Complete makefile generation for all target platforms, including the ability to integrate external files.

* Programmatic GUI specification using the Project File Access (PFA) Library, so you can create XVT-Design project files from external programs. Users can also generate XVT-Design project files from existing URL files.

* Custom control support lets you represent your own interface controls with placeholder objects.

* Reusable event-handler classes let you define behavior of a container object once and save the "class behavior" as an attribute. Users can create libraries of such modules. Subsequent development is accelerated since predefined classes of container object behavior can be selected from an XVT-Design listedit, thus avoiding the need to rewrite code.

XVT-Design users will finish applications in a fraction of the time required to manually program the GUI.

XVT-Design++ Announced

XVT-Design++, an interactive application framework, is a complete GUI tool for creating C++ applications. It will begin shipping during the second quarter, 1993. Together with the XVT Portability Toolkit, it forms the most productive multi-platform C++ development solution in the industry today.

The package includes two components: an interactive design tool for user interfaces which incorporates a C++ Code Editor, and a C++ class library which includes GUI objects.

XVT-Design++ is XVT's first C++ interactive application framework product. Developers build upon the framework to create applications, rather than starting from scratch. The objects streamline many details that are essentially the same from application to application, such as creating graphical windows. Because the framework is based on objects, the developer can easily modify it to suit the needs of the application being developed.

XVT is also creating new support, consulting and training services for XVT-Design++. In addition, XVT Partners offer a number of complementary products that service C++ developer needs, including products from Object Design, Objectivity and Raima.

XVT-Design++ requires an XVT Portability Toolkit, and can be purchased bundled with the Toolkit for $2150 on PCs, or $6500 on UNIX Workstations. Separately, XVT-Design++ is $1395 on PCs and similar systems, and $3095 on UNIX workstations.

XVT-Design Upgrade Option

XVT customers with current XVT-Design 1.1 maintenance will automatically receive XVT-Design 2.0. These same customers may also purchase XVT-Design++ at a special promotional price. Call your sales representative for details. This offer expires May 31, 1993.

XVT Software Inc. 4900 Pearl East Circle Boulder, CO 80301

(303) 443-4223    Fax: (303) 443-0969    1-800-678-7988


Pixelink Extends High-Speed Document Imaging Sys
PIXELINK EXTENDS HIGH-SPEED WINDOWS, X WINDOWS DOCUMENT IMAGING SYSTEMS WITH LARGE-SCREEN FLICKERFREE COLOR MONITORS

March 29, 1993 -- HUDSON, Mass. -- Pixelink Corporation today announced it will offer customers for its 120XDS Windows and UNIX/X Windows document display systems the option to select ultra-high resolution 21-inch color monitors, featuring a flicker-free 76Hz screen refresh rate that preserves the 120 dots per inch clarity and detail of Windows and X Windows-based color page images.

Pixelink Marketing and Sales Director Bill Ingraham explained, "We're the first industry vendor who can offer a high-performance document imaging solution with interchangeable color or gray scale monitors. Color or gray scale, the 120XDS system still offers the same great features, including Windows acceleration, 120 dpi resolution, and 76Hz screen refresh rate." With flicker-free 21-inch color monitors as a simple upgrade path, Pixelink 120XDS customers can choose either gray scale or color to fit their document display tasks or budgets, without compromising display quality or ergonomics.

According to Ingraham, "If a customer chooses a 21-inch color display system from Pixelink, there is no change in CRT refresh rate. This isn't true for other imaging solution vendors. Screen refresh rates for large color monitors drop by almost 20 percent, compared to the same gray scale system. This performance gap increases the likelihood that images will flicker on their color screens. Pixelink customers won't have to sacrifice user viewing comfort or page clarity to get color performance." Since the same 120XDS board runs either monitor, companies can purchase gray scale now and graduate later to color, or swap 120XDS color and gray scale displays around the organization, as staff assignments and needs change.

Introduced last November at the Federal Imaging Conference and Exposition in Washington, D.C., the Pixelink 120XDS system can run Microsoft Windows 3.1-based document display tasks significantly faster than current PC-based offerings. The UNIX/X Windows version delivers up to 70,000 Xstones while displaying 1600 x 1200 images, the industry's highest performance for PC-based X Windowing systems.

Based on a non-interlaced 200MHz graphics controller from Number Nine Computer Corporation that accelerates both text and graphics display performance, the 120XDS lets users see two document pages simultaneously displayed onscreen at 120 dpi (or 1600 x 1200 pixels) resolution. Even with this ultra-high resolution displaying more document "real estate", users can closely examine specific document sections using the 120 XDS Hawkeye zoom feature. With the touch of a single key, users can magnify the entire screen by up to 8x, then scroll and pan over the magnified section with the mouse.

Gray scale versions of 120XDS Windows and 120XDS UNIX/X Windows document imaging display systems are priced at $2,695. Selecting the 2 l-inch color monitor option adds $2,000 to the system price. Headquartered here, Pixelink provides high-performance display systems to OEMs, system integrators and corporate users throughout North America. Pixelink specializes in integrating grayscale and color monitors with video controllers, to deliver high-resolution document imaging systems that meet challenging customer requirements in government, university, business, science, engineering, medical, and graphic arts applications.

Pixelink, Kane Industrial Dr, Hudson, MA 01749

(508) 562-4803;   FAX: (508) 568-0514


$MART GAMBLER Tutorial, Planning & Reporting Pgm
NEW CASINO GAMBLING TUTORIAL, PLANNING AND REPORTING PROGRAM

$MART GAMBLER is a unique PC application to show how to get the best of it in the casino! Tutorials on gambling provide instruction on choosing casinos and games, odds, money management and improving luck. Tutorials on Slots, Video Poker, Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker and Keno explain the games and provide strategies to get the most prosperous results. $mart Gambler calculates recommended bet sizes and limits based on a defined gambling bankroll. The program also generates reports and graphs to monitor results and identify the better casinos and games to play. These are essential for achieving success. $mart Gamblers apply knowledge gained from the program's comprehensive tutorials and features to increase success and enjoyment in the casinos expanding across the country today.

An installation program, on-line help for the menu and a reference manual make for a fast learning curve. Buyers of $mart Gambler also receive a bonus program that interprets actual reports making suggestions to improve results. The bonus additionally includes advanced tutorials on gambling and ways to save money on trips to casinos. These practical tips alone can pay back several times the low cost of $mart Gambler.

System requirements: IBM/Compatible PC with 640k available memory and 720k available disk space. A hard disk drive is recommended. Graphics display capability is optional.

$MART GAMBLER information is available from Roy Schoenbeck, PC Information Systems, 310 Rue de La Lavanda, Sparks NV 89434-9524. Phone 702-342-0376 or E-mail to CompuServe 71360,72. The program may be purchased from PC Information Systems for $39.95 plus $3.00 shipping and handing. Credit card orders may be placed at 800-242-4775.


AimTech & Sony Link Multimedia Authoring Tools
AIMTECH AND SONY ELECTRONIC PUBLISHING TO LINK MULTIMEDIA AUTHORING TOOLS

Sony's Full Text Retrieval and AimTech's IconAuthor Soon Compatible

NASHUA, N.H., March 30, 1993 -- AimTech Corporation and Sony Electronic Publishing Company today announced plans to develop multimedia authoring software which will combine two powerful applications. The combination of Sony Electronic Publishing's FTR Advanced Hypermedia Software Tools, marketed by its Publishers Data Service Corporation (PDSC) and AimTech's IconAuthor, will provide complete authoring capabilities to multimedia and CD-ROM publishers, and will be one of the most powerful software authoring tools available.

"The real beauty of this announcement is that two great development tools just got better," says Rick Fisher, national sales and marketing manager, PDSC. "Our full text retrieval software provides one of the most powerful search and retrieval engines available. And AimTech's IconAuthor visual programming environment is unrivaled. The combination provides developers with the ability to easily create training or educational CD-ROM applications that can still offer sophisticated search and retrieval capabilities."

"Now, our customers can take advantage of Sony's lightning-fast search and retrieval technology to access large volumes of information on CD," said Usman Ismail, AimTech's president and CEO. "The net result is a more integrated learning environment that helps seamlessly integrate CBT courseware with electronic books to create very robust applications."

PDSC's FTR/Build and FTR/API (Application Program Interface) is a full-featured hypermedia software toolset designed to meet the data indexing and retrieval needs of multimedia CD applications. FTR provides maximum flexibility in developing multimedia applications/hyperlinks between a variety of media forms; and user interfaces that best fit the user's application requirements, as well as provides essential feedback during the development process. FTR allows you to search up to 280,000 pages of hierarchically organized, cross-referenced text information with hyperlinks to multiple multimedia elements such as audio, images, animation and motion video.

AimTech's IconAuthor is a comprehensive multimedia authoring tool that nonprogrammers choose to create highly sophisticated interactive multimedia applications on Windows, Modular Windows, and UNIX platforms running OSF/Motif. Featuring built-in editors, database and unlimited user-defined variables, IconAuthor provides full support for both analog and digital full-motion video. As applications are developed, they can be run, tested, and edited in real time.

AimTech will be showing a prototype of these combined technologies at the intermedia '93 Show in San Jose, California, March 30-April 1 (booth #1516).

Publishers Data Service Corporation provides authoring software and comprehensive technical support to assist companies in becoming electronic and optical publishers. Sony Electronic Publishing Company creates, produces, and distributes multimedia software products for the business, entertainment and educational markets. Sony Electronic Publishing, together with Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sony Music Entertainment, is a subsidiary of Sony Software Corporation, a subsidiary of Sony USA Inc.

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

AimTech, 20 Trafalgar Square, Nashua, NH 03063-1973

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


ProPhone Business+One Telephone Directory CD-ROM
INFORMATION REVOLUTION !

San Jose, CA. Intermedia Conference. March 30, 1993. -- Pro CD, Inc. awakened the information industry today with the introduction of ProPhone Business + one. The CD-ROM, which was released today, contains the name, complete mailing address, telephone number, classification headings, and approximate number of employees for the majority of businesses and organizations in the United States. While telephone directories have been available on CD-ROM for the past five years, ProPhone is the first directory designed to allow users export an unlimited number of listings to their word processing, database, spreadsheet or contact management software. It is also the first national telephone directory introduced at price of less than $50. By comparison, an annual license to NYNEX's Fast Track CD-ROM, introduced in 1988, was priced at $10,000.00 and only contained listings from part of six states.

ProPhone Business + one contains 7 million business listings. Listings may be accessed through Pro CD's search software or they may be downloaded and manipulated by a user's programs. Charles McDermott, Vice President of Sales indicated, "We're the first company to allow users download an unlimited amount of information off a CD-ROM to use with their own software programs."

Pro CD's search software, included on the disc, allows users to search for a listing or group of listings by name or classification headings. Searches may be limited by any geographic parameter including city, state, zip code, and area code. Individual listings or groups of listings may be exported to a disk file or printer. Listings may be exported in ASCII comma delimited and imported directly into popular word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs.

According to Jim Bryant, Pro CD's founder and President, "Customers are forcing the information industry rethink established ways of packaging and pricing information. Yellow Page publishers, in particular, have lost track of who their directory customers are. Most believe their customers are the businesses that advertise in their printed telephone directory - and not the people who rely on the directory as a source of information. Pro CD is committed to the individuals and businesses that use directory information for reference and marketing purposes."

Pro CD announced that it will offer semi-annual updates to ProPhone Business + one. Discounts on future editions will be available to registered users. Registered users also have the option to obtain regional editions or the national collection of residential directory listings directly from Pro CD. The optional regional discs contain a special version of the access software that permits a user of ProPhone Business + one to export an unlimited number of records at once by selecting export "All Matching Records." Scott Beatty, co-founder and Publisher indicated, "The unlimited exporting feature was designed to serve the power user - someone who wants to export hundred, thousands or perhaps even millions of records at once."

ProPhone Business + one is available from CD-ROM dealers nationwide at an introductory suggested list price of only $49.95. The suggested list price after July 1, 1993 will be $249. The minimum system requirements include a CD-ROM drive, an 8088, 80286, 80386, or 80486 based computer with MS-DOS version 3.1 or higher, 512K memory and a hard disk drive.

Pro CD, Inc., a privately held firm based in Marblehead, Mass, is changing the way people view and access directory information. Pro CD also publishes ProPhone National Edition, a collection of seven CD-ROM's that contain over 77 million business and residential listings from every city in the United States. Pro CD may be reached by ringing 800-99CD-ROM.

ProCD, 8 Doaks Lane, Little Harbor, Marblehead, MA 01945

617-631-9200;  fax: 617-631-0810


Codar Intros Ruggedized Laptop Workstation
CODAR INTRODUCES RUGGEDIZED LAPTOP WORKSTATION

Longmont, CO. -- March 22, 1993 -- Codar Technology, Inc. introduces the Cougar Series Ruggedized Laptop Workstations, powerful, high-performance, SPARC or VME based lightweight portable workstations that give users a range of capabilities previously unavailable in the industry. The ruggedized Cougars measure 5.5"(H) x 19.0"(D) x 17.7"(W), weigh approximately 37 Lbs., and when operating can withstand temperatures from 0 to 50 degrees C, altitudes from -100 to 15,000 feet, and humidity from 5% to 95%. The Cougar is designed to meet EMI requirements of MIL-STD-461.

The Cougar offers flexibility in its configurations, and several versions are already in production. The Cougar VME features a SPARC2 (VME) CPU, with a 10.4" color active matrix LCD (TFT) display, one removable 1.2 Gbyte hard drive, a battery back-up system using Reflex technology (the most sophisticated "smart charge" technology in the industry), a sealed keyboard and integral trackball, polymer-based isolation bumpers, and an optional audio intercom system which allows direct headset connection with full EMI compliance. This unit is totally sealed and conduction cooled with special heatsinks located radially around the back and sides of the machine.

The Cougar IPX features a SUN IPX CPU, a 10.4" color active matrix LCD (TFT) display, graphics adapter for internal and external displays, two drives (one fixed floppy and one 1.2 Gbyte removable), AC/DC input power, the Reflex battery recharging system, and is air (fan) cooled. Additionally, current plans call for a PC version to be available in production quantities by June 1993.

According to Milt Martin, Codar's VP of Engineering, "The Cougar development program demonstrates how Codar is responding to the changing defense industry climate. We are focusing on complex technical programs with more aggressive schedules and a broad range of technologies, and providing cutting edge solutions that outperform anything currently on the market - all in an extremely short time frame."

Codar Technology, Inc. pioneered the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) ruggedized computer industry in 1981, and in January 1991, was awarded the industry's first patent for ruggedized design techniques. Codar is a financially secure, mature company that leads the industry in designing, manufacturing, integrating, and supporting ruggedized and TEMPEST computer systems and subsystems for the Department of Defense and its subcontractors and allies. Codar has participated in more than 150 DoD programs worldwide.

Codar Technology, 2405 Trade Centre Ave, Longmont, CO 80503

303-776-0472;  fax: 303-776-1806


DOS Made Easy, Fourth Edition

by Herbert Schlidt

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of DOS Made Easy, Fourth Edition, a new release of Schildt's bestselling book that has sold over a quarter million copies in three previous editions.

Updated to cover all the important new features in DOS 6, Schildt provides DOS users with clear, step-by-step instructions for working with any version of DOS. DOS Made Easy, Fourth Edition incorporates an easy-to-follow formula distilled from Schildt's vast knowledge of the operating system that assures readers of getting the most from DOS in a minimal amount of time, even if they've never worked with DOS before.

For readers new to DOS. the book provides detailed descriptions of how to run DOS, and working with the DOS prompt, the File System, DOS tree-structured directories, and the DOS Shell, all illuminated step-by-step. For readers upgrading to DOS 6, Schildt helps users get the most from DOS with tips on the best ways to use the DOS interface and command prompt, configuring DOS and the DOS shell, managing fixed and floppy disks, along with insights into all the new features and capabilities of DOS 6.

Anyone working with DOS will find this an invaluable resource for gaining command of the system quickly and learning to use it with confidence in the future.

$19.95            ISBN:  0-07-881896-6           480 pages

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

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


DOS Inside & Out, Second Edition

by Kris Jamsa

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of DOS Inside & Out, Second Edition, a new release of Jamsa's bestselling book that incorporates the popular 15-minute hands-on format for learning to work with any version of DOS through DOS 6.

DOS wizard Kris Jamsa will have users managing DOS quickly, efficiently, and with confidence, whether they are new to DOS or upgrading to DOS 6. Beginners will quickly learn to master all the fundamentals and gain valuable practice by performing many common tasks in each lesson. Intermediate users will learn to manage the computer memory, double the storage capacity of the hard drive, prevent computer viruses, and much more.

DOS users will also discover the best way to work with DOS shells, explore disk drives, find out the best ways to organize and protect files, and more. By reading the second edition of DOS Inside & Out, users can advance to more sophisticated DOS capabilities, such as file manipulation, I/O redirection, and system customization, while learning all the new enhancements to DOS 6.

No matter what version of DOS users have, they'll find that DOS Inside & Out. Second Edition provides a thorough, easily-comprehended understanding of DOS that actually makes learning fun.

$27 95           ISBN:  0-07-881918-0           900 pages

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

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


DOS, The Complete Reference, Fourth Edition
DOS: The Complete Reference, Fourth Edition

by Kris Jamsa

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of DOS: The Complete Reference, Fourth Edition, a one-volume, one-stop resource for answering every question about DOS through the just-released DOS 6.

With 46 chapters. this is the only book DOS users will need to get expert help in a clear, easy-to-understand manner. Written for beginners as well as experienced DOS users, this bestselling book has sold over 350,000 copies in earlier editions. After getting beginners up to speed. Jamsa covers many up-to-the-minute topics including, how to get the most from DOS directories and from printers and other peripherals; how to best protect files, avoid crises, debug and recover disks with errors, and prevent viruses; how to get the most from DOS memory management and disk compaction; and much more. Readers will find answers to specific questions in no time through Osborne's command reference guide, a key feature of the Complete Reference series.

Loaded with illustrations, notes and exercises, DOS: The Complete Reference. Fourth Edition, guarantees to provide users with all the help they need to get the most from any version of DOS.

Kris Jamsa is the author of more than 40 computer books on topics that include DOS, Windows, hard-disk management, graphics, WordPerfect, and programming languages.

$29.95        ISBN:  0-07-881904-4            1100 pages

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

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


DOS, The Pocket Reference, Third Edition
DOS: The Pocket Reference, Third Edition

by Kris Jamsa

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of DOS: The Pocket Reference, Third Edition, a new instant guide to all the essential commands and features of DOS through version 6.

All DOS users can benefit from the quick answers this book provides whenever a question arises and they need an answer fast.

DOS users will discover this handy guide offers concise descriptions of every DOS command followed by an easily-understood example arranged alphabetically for the utmost speed and convenience. Every command is followed by a format section that shows how to enter the command.

In addition, a special lay-flat binding keeps the book open to any page while working at the keyboard.

Jamsa's DOS: The Pocket Reference. Third Edition will save DOS users from wading through voluminous manuals by providing quick and painless answers to those pesky DOS questions fast.

$9.95          ISBN:  0-07-881906-7           220 pages

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

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


Simply DOS, Second Edition

by Kris Jamsa

Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of Simply DOS, Second Edition, a new book for beginning computer users who need to get up and running with DOS.

Revised to include information on the latest features in DOS 6, this new edition of Simply DOS is once again packed with easy-to-follow instructions and helpful illustrations.

Written by well-known PC authority Kris Jamsa, this short. user-friendly book begins by introducing users to key hardware components including the keyboard, mouse and printer. Jamsa then explores the workings of DOS with a few well-chosen examples to help readers gain an understanding of how DOS works. Simply DOS will quickly have users confidently performing numerous tasks they can use every day -- everything from working with DOS files to organizing a hard disk. Later chapters cover how to use DOS's time-saving batch files, and how to customize a computer system with DOS. Jamsa also discusses all the new features and enhancements of DOS 6.

For any beginning computer user who needs a first book to turn to for jargon-free, uncomplicated information, Simply DOS, Second Edition is the right choice to help turn a computer novice into a confident user.

$14.95          ISBN:  0-07-881914-8            200 pages

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

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


Speculator, Land Acquisition Game
New Game Creates Land Barons In As Little As 30 Minutes

SPECULATOR - A Game Of Land Acquisition for IBM and Compatible Computers

April 1, 1993 -- Speculator, a new real estate strategy game is played using maps depicting local or imaginary land areas. Each of the five maps included is a unique game, providing different economic models. One screen displays the entire map as 24 horizontal and 14 vertical "tiles" with a maximum of 336 properties on a map. The human player competes against three randomly picked computer players for limited investment opportunities. Each computer player has its own unique strategy.

You purchase properties, start new companies, buy and sell stock, expand companies, display company information, buy real estate blockers, read the newspaper, view terrain information and get player information. Most games last about 30 minutes.

As you acquire properties, they merge to form land holding companies. As the land holding companies grow adjacent to each other, they will merge with only one company remaining. The player with the most assets when the game ends is the winner.

The starter game is fully functional with five maps and 37 screens of on-line help. Additional map sets may be purchased. Each map set includes a 40 page rule book with strategy guide, reference card, the latest version of the program, more than 20 new maps over a dozen new computer opponents and a unique set of properties & buildings. There are currently four additional map sets available. "Ancient Tymes" - compete with ancient heroes on maps from early history, "County Side" - grow your own agri-business across the land, "Mooned Puzzles" - solve geographic & economic puzzles in Sci-Fi land and "Slick Cities" -develop your favorite United States city.

Speculator requires an IBM compatible computer, 512K RAM, color graphics video and DOS 3.0 or later.

The Speculator program is available directly from WestWorld for $5.00, or check with your favorite shareware vendor or bulletin board for this game. Each additional map set is $19.95 or you can get 3 for $39.95. For more information, contact WestWorld Computer Services, 3755 Avocado Blvd., Suite 304, La Mesa, CA 91941-7301.

Speculator was created by a joint venture between WestWorld Computer Services and Capstone Solutions.


SYBASE SQR Product Line Supports ORACLE7
SQR PRODUCT LINE OF SYBASE SUPPORTS ORACLE7

MITI Supports Oracle SQR Customers

LONG BEACH, CA, March 29, 1993 -- Management Information Technology, Inc. (MITI) today announced an agreement with Sybase to develop and support the popular SQR product family on current and future versions of the Oracle RDBMS. The SQR (Structured Query Report Writer) product line is a family of report generators and development languages optimized for SQL databases.

The SQR family of products was developed by SQ Software, now owned by Sybase, Inc. Used by thousands of clients worldwide, SQR is an independent 4GL for Sybase, Oracle, Informix, Ingres and other RDBMS platforms. The SQR family supports the full range of SQL reporting requirements, from ad hoc queries through sophisticated production reports that use procedural programming techniques.

MITI, based in Long Beach, CA, develops and markets tools for enhancing Oracle RDMSs. MITI's president Ofir Kedar said, "Our mission is to provide Oracle clients with tools to enhance productivity, performance and to deliver high quality support. Our customer base includes many SQR users. This agreement allows us to expand our offerings for the Oracle RDBMS and provide our customers with the SQR product on Oracle7 and in the future."

Robert Epstein, executive vice president at Sybase said, "In keeping with Sybase's open systems strategy, we are committed to supporting the needs of customers with heterogenous environments. MITI's new role will allow customers using the SQR product with Oracle to receive regular enhancements and a high level of support."

Terms of Agreement

Through this agreement, MITI will enhance, support and sell SQR for Oracle starting with release 2.40 of SQR. Sybase will retain ownership of SQR and will continue to market and support the product to value added resellers, systems integrators and customers who are using both Sybase and Oracle and who wish to maintain their relationship with Sybase. Management Information Technology Inc.

Management Information Technology, Inc. is a privately held software development company specializing in tools for Oracle relational database management system. One of the first to develop these products for Oracle, MITI produces DBA MASTER, SQL*C++, and other leading tools. Founded in 1985, MITI began providing custom programming and systems integration solutions for large Oracle applications at many Fortune 500 companies. MITI's rapid growth--300 percent over the last three years--has been accompanied by a vigorously expanding national and international distribution network. Sybase, Inc.

Sybase, Inc. (NASDAQ: SYBS) develops and markets a leading family of client/server-based software products and services for on-line, enterprise-wide applications. Sybase's integrated family of software includes servers, tools, connectivity, and administration/control products that provide complete desktop to mainframe solutions. Headquartered in Emeryville, CA, Sybase markets its products worldwide through its direct sales force, telesales, distributors, OEMs, VARs, and systems integrators.

Management Information Technology Inc

2895 Temple Ave, Long Beach, CA 90806

310-424-4399;  fax: 310-424-9385


Sapphire Bulletin Board Upgraded to Version 4.07
SAPPHIRE BULLETIN BOARD SYSTEM UPGRADED TO VERSION 4.07

Ease of operation continues to be primary focus

MONTREAL, QUEBEC--Pinnacle Software has announced the release of Version 4.07 of their Sapphire bulletin board system (BBS). This is a major upgrade incorporating more than 30 improvements.

The new version introduces: support for international character sets; a programming language for text functions; full ANSI screen control; enhanced configurability; user accounting; and hypertext documentation.

The Sapphire BBS is optimized for business and institutional applications. It is designed to be installed in less than 5 minutes and does not need daily maintenance. It is particularly popular with consultants, service companies and new sysops. Sapphire's Zero-Maintenance design enables it to run unattended. Old messages, files, users and usage logs are automatically cleared away by "fuzzy logic" algorithms.

Sapphire provides standard BBS features such as messaging, electronic mail, file transfer, and a text library. It also provides advanced features such as "doors" (external programs) and "events" (daily scheduled execution of external programs).

Tim Campbell, a spokesman for Pinnacle, said, "Even with all the features we've added over the past year, people continue to point to ease of installation as the primary reason they selected Sapphire. We understand that in a business environment, a BBS has to be easy to set up and install, so every time we add a feature, we make sure that it does not add extra work for the installer or operator."

A fully functional demonstration copy of Sapphire may be downloaded from Pinnacle Software's support BBS at (514) 345-8654 (9600 bps v32). Full registration is $45 and includes voice support, privileged access to the support BBS, bonus utilities, and a liberal upgrade policy.

Pinnacle Software is a computer consulting firm located in Montreal, Canada, with offices in Swanton, Vermont. Pinnacle Software, CP 386, Mount Royal QC, Canada H3P 3C6. (514) 345-9578.


Parse-O-Matic Data Import/Export Tool V2.30
PARSE-O-MATIC DATA IMPORT/EXPORT TOOL UPGRADED TO VERSION 2.30

"Robot Editor" feature automates repetitive text editing tasks

MONTREAL, QUEBEC, February 15th, 1993 -- Pinnacle Software has announced the release of Version 2.30 of their Parse-O-Matic database import/export tool.

Parse-O-Matic is a utility for IBM-PC compatible computers which lets the user move data between programs that normally do not understand each other's data, by converting reports from one program into a format useful to the other one. Parse-O-Matic also serves as a "robot editor" for automating repetitive text modification tasks.

The new version enhances the export options by providing support for columnar export in addition to the standard comma-delimited format. A new processing display screen reports the progress of the parsing job.

Parse-O-Matic is aimed chiefly at database, and network administrators who need to integrate applications. The usual method is to write a data interface program in Basic, C or Pascal. Parse-O-Matic's simple, English-like syntax is oriented towards data parsing, greatly reducing the time required to create a converter.

"Countless companies have synergistic data spread throughout their networks,'' said Tim Campbell, a spokesman for Pinnacle Software. "But without a method to export it, all that valuable information is locked up in each program. For many companies, Parse-O-Matic is the key."

Parse-O-Matic can run on any IBM-PC compatible computer, with any display. A hard disk is recommended but not required.

A fully functional demonstration copy may be downloaded from Pinnacle Software's support BBS at (514) 345-8654 (9600 bps v32). Full registration is $25 and includes voice support, privileged access to Pinnacle Software's BBS, bonus utilities, and auto-registration of new versions for two years.

Pinnacle Software is a computer consulting firm located in Montreal, Canada, with offices in Swanton, Vermont. Pinnacle Software, CP 386, Mount Royal QC, Canada H3P 3C6. (514) 345-9578.


Central Point Safe Six for MS-DOS
Central Point Announces Safe Six for MS-DOS

Virus Subscription Service Provides Protection for MS-DOS 6 Users

BEAVERTON, Ore.--March 29, 1993--Central Point Software, Inc. today announced Safe Six, which immediately updates the anti-virus component included in Microsoft's new MS-DOS 6 operating system. Along with the initial update, Safe Six also includes a subscription that automatically provides the MS-DOS 6 user ongoing protection against newly discovered viruses.

"The fact that MS-DOS 6 contains an anti-virus utility represents a major step forward in the continuing fight against viruses," said Chuck Boesenberg, president and CEO of Central Point Software. "With more than 100 new viruses appearing monthly, users need a way to stay current if they are to stay protected. Safe Six offers MS-DOS 6 users a way to ensure comprehensive and continuous protection against viruses."

While the anti-virus utility in MS-DOS 6 detects more than 1,200 viruses, Safe Six ensures that MS-DOS users have protection against new viruses. The first update included in Safe Six recognizes the new viruses that have surfaced since the completion of MS-DOS 6. The subscription provides two future updates at no additional cost.

Customers who choose to buy Safe Six at the same time they purchase MS-DOS 6 will have immediate protection for current viruses. Central Point will send the future updates directly to registered users as soon as they become available, supplying the additional virus protection without requiring any extra effort on the part of the user. After these updates users may renew their Safe Six subscription for continued protection, with new updates released by Central Point every three to four months.

Central Point developed the MS-DOS 6 anti-virus module for Microsoft. This represents the first time that a version of DOS has included virus protection. The MS-DOS 6 anti-virus module and Central Point Anti-Virus products offer users the same level of protection against viruses, providing for their detection, cleaning and eradication on individual PCs. In addition, Central Point Anti-Virus includes features geared toward the corporate and organizational user, including network installation and updating, customized error messages and password protection.

While Safe Six expands the number of viruses the MS-DOS 6 anti-virus component recognizes, it does not modify the program's feature set. Safe Six requires MS-DOS 6 for operation.

To ensure continuous virus protection, Central Point and Microsoft are offering users two options to update the anti-virus module in MS-DOS 6. Safe Six, available through the distributor and reseller channels in April 1993, provides users with a total of three updates for a suggested retail price of $49.95. Safe Six can be purchased with the MS-DOS 6 upgrade or at a later time. In addition, the MS-DOS 6 upgrade manual contains a special coupon offer redeemable for one update for $9.95 or two updates for $19.95. The coupon offer will be fulfilled via mail by Central Point. Additionally, if a user purchases both Safe Six and one of the MS-DOS 6 upgrade manual coupon offers, Central Point will combine the two offers to provide the user with up to four consecutive updates.

Central Point Software, Inc., headquartered in Beaverton, develops, markets and supports a complete line of utility software products for DOS, Windows and Macintosh on the desktop, as well as the Novell NetWare platform. Founded in 1981, the company now has a worldwide customer base of five million users. Central Point's products are translated into six foreign languages and are available in more than 30 countries.

Central Point Software

15220 N.W. Greenbrier Parkway, #200, Beaverton, OR 97006

Customer Service: 503-690-8090; Technical Support: 503-690-8080

Fax: 503-690-8083


Central Point Announces PC Tools 8.0a

Maintenance Release of Industry-leading Product Ensures Compatibility With MS-DOS 6

BEAVERTON, Ore.--March 29, 1993--Central Point Software, Inc. today announced PC Tools 8.0a, which is fully compatible with Microsoft's MS-DOS 6 operating system.. The product, a maintenance update to PC Tools 8.0, resolves known configuration conflicts resulting from new MS-DOS features and offers users a superset of utility functions beyond what the operating system itself provides.

PC Tools programs updated in the Version 8.0a release include Compress, DiskFix, RAMBoost, DiskEdit and PC Cache as well as the installation routines. The changes allow users to take full advantage of new MS-DOS features, such as disk compression, memory management and Flexboot, while offering comprehensive alternatives for entry-level utility programs included with the operating system.

PC Tools provides comprehensive support for millions of computer users of varying skill levels in both networked and standalone environments. It offers the most complete set of award-winning utilities--including disk and memory management, automatic backup and anti-virus protection--all easily available through an integrated, graphical desktop.

The latest version of MS-DOS includes anti-virus technology that is licensed from Central Point and based on its award-winning product, Central Point Anti-Virus. MS-DOS 6 is also fully compatible with Central Point's PC Tools for Windows, which began shipping earlier this month. PC Tools for Windows was designed to work with MS-DOS 6 and supports it without modification.

Pricing and Availability

Central Point PC Tools 8.0a will be available in April for a suggested retail price of $179 through major software distributors and resellers in the United States and Canada. Additionally, users who bought PC Tools for DOS on or after February 15, 1993, can upgrade to 8.0a without charge by supplying proof-of-purchase. Users who purchased PC Tools for DOS before February 15,1993, can upgrade for $14.95 plus $5.00 shipping and handling. Customers in North America may call (800) 445-4208 for additional product information or to order a maintenance update.

Central Point Software, Inc., headquartered in Beaverton, develops, markets and supports a complete line of utility software products for DOS, Windows and Macintosh on the desktop, as well as the Novell NetWare platform. Founded in 1981, the company now has a worldwide customer base of 5 million users. Central Point's products are translated into six foreign languages and are available in more than 30 countries.

Central Point Software

15220 N.W. Greenbrier Parkway, #200, Beaverton, OR 97006

Customer Service: 503-690-8090; Technical Support: 503-690-8080

Fax: 503-690-8083


Chemical Design Chem-X Major New Enhancements
Chemical Information Announcement of the Decade

Summary

At the Spring ACS exhibition in Denver, Chemical Design is announcing and demonstrating several major new enhancements to Chem-X. As a result of these enhancements, Chemical Design now provides the first low cost distributed chemical information system intended for widescale use in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries for storing and searching chemical structures and associated information.

There are four main components of the new enhancements:

* 2D database searching with 2D draw, display and enhanced

  reporting options;

* Reaction searching with atom mapping, product/reactant

  constraints, condition and other text search options;

* Interfaces to relational databases such as ORACLE with read,

  write and search capabilities; and

* Client-server distributed searching.

In addition, several new partnerships have been formed with database suppliers including

* Chapman & Hall for the supply of three databases totalling

  over 200,000 structures with 2D structures and extensive

  textual information;

* InfoChem for the supply of several reaction databases

  previously available for use with Molecular Design's reaction

  database products (the largest searchable database contains

  370,000 reactions with a linked library of 1,800,000 reactions,

  to give further examples of reactions of the same type);

* Synopsys for a specialist protecting group reaction database;

* SPECS & BioSPECS for a database of over 20,000 molecules for

  which they can supply samples.

Chem-X is currently used by many leading pharmaceutical and non-profit research organizations for 3D database applications, including Glaxo, Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, Akzo, Fisons, Roche, Boots, American Hoechst and NIH. Several of these organizations have over 200,000 structures loaded into ChemDBS-1 and one has over 400,000 structures. Although the database technology is essentially unchanged in the new 2D database searching and reaction searching capabilities, extensive changes have been made to the user-interface.

At present, most pharmaceuticals use VAX and terminal-based 2D and reaction searching products supplied by Molecular Design and known as MACCS and REACCS. In addition, some companies are also evaluating a new distributed information system from Molecular Design known as ISIS. "The fact that most companies are envisaging moving to a distributed client-server database architecture over the next few years, improves our market opportunity", commented Keith Davies, Technical Director of Chemical Design, "Most people also believe that ISIS is far too expensive and that MACCS has a limited life time of 2 or 3 years".

The entire Chem-X system is available on a range of desktop hardware including 486 PCs, Mac II's as well as workstations such as the SUN SPARCstation, IBM RS/6000 and Silicon Graphics IRIS. The preferred server options are DEC Alpha and the RS/6000 servers, although Chem-X is also available for VAX and other servers.

Company Background

Chemical Design Ltd was formed by Keith Davies and his sister Mary in 1983 while they were chemistry research students at Oxford University, UK. Keith was one of the pioneers of molecular modelling, gaining a Junior Research Fellowship at Lincoln College to pursue his work on the use of low-cost raster graphics hardware for molecular modelling. The company grew rapidly in the early years from 1983 to 1988. Funded by its profits during that time period, it expanded into hardware sales and expert systems. By 1990 Chemical Design decided to restructure and discontinue activities in these two areas, hardware and expert systems, which were creating losses for the company. The company returned to strong profitability in 1991 -and 1992 with a staff of 20 and a turnover of $3,000,000. Keith remains the major share holder in Chemical Design with no external investment.

Chemical Design currently offers a modular product known as Chem-X which is used by over 400 sites world-wide, including divisions of most leading pharmaceutical companies. The software includes molecular structure visualization, computation and database capabilities.

The company has retained its innovative edge with a strong emphasis on standards, user-interface, quality and after sales service. This has resulted in a completely new menu driven user-interface supporting Motif menus, rewritten documentation, availability of the entire system on small memory configuration PCs (under DOS now and MS-windows in mid-1993), Macintosh IIs, a range of UNIX workstations and VMS (VAX and Alpha). The result is a product which is ready for the 1990s, and would not be recognised by those who have not seen it since the 1980s.

The first database module was introduced in 1986 for storing 3D chemical structures relating to the same research project. In 1990, Chemical Design announced a 3D database module, ChemDBS-3D, designed for searching large databases of over 100,000 structures for discrete geometric arrangements of atoms known as pharmacophores. The major difference between ChemDBS-3D and other software, such as MACCS-3D from MDL, Catalyst from BIOCAD and Sybyl/3DB from TRIPOS, is the ability within ChemDBS-3D to cope with the many different shapes adopted by a single typical drug molecule (known as conformational freedom of the molecule). Several early customers, including Rhone-Poulenc, Akzo (Organon) and Wellcome, have stated publicly that ChemDBS-3D has allowed them to make discoveries leading to new patents or molecules in development. Such testimonies and published papers have helped establish Chemical Design's reputation for a 2 year lead in 3D database technology.

In addition to searching technology, Chem-X includes a 2D to 3D structure builder and interfaces to MACCS-II, DARC from Questel and SMILES from Daylight Software. This allows 2D chemical structures to be converted into 3D structures and loaded into a Chem-X database at a rate in excess of 100,000 structures/day. Chemical Design has continued to pioneer the 3D database field with the release in October last year of an innovative pharmacophore identification capability. This technique can analyse the available conformations for many active molecules (typically 50-100) and suggest possible pharmacophores which all the molecules can exhibit. These pharmacophores are then used to select from databases further molecules to be tested for activity.

Chemical Design offers two classes of license. The Personal License is a low cost single-user, dedicated CPU license for which there is an annual fee to include support and updates. On PCs and Macintosh IIs a Personal License for an entry level database system (5 modules) costs as little as $2500 per year. The Network License is available for larger installations and its cost is dependent upon the number of concurrent users on a local site network, rather than the speed of the hardware or the number of CPUs. A 1-2 User Network License costs $9500 per module. Therefore an entry level Network database system would cost $47500. A range of support options is available including regular on-site visits by Application Specialists with prices from 15% of the

New Products ChemDBS-2D for 2D database searching

Much of the technology required for 2D database searching including database keys, text data, numeric data and substructure searching, is already present in Chem-X's 3D database system. In addition, users of 2D database systems desire:

* 2D diagrams on the screen for search queries and reports;

* Multi-structure printed (PostScript) reports; and

* Interfaces to relational databases for searching and reporting.

ChemRXS for reaction database searching

There are only subtle differences between a 2D structure and reaction database system. The reaction database product will provide:

* 2D sketching of query input in terms of reactants and/or

  products;

* Concept of atom to atom mapping from reactant to product

  for searching and display;

* Concept and display of reaction sites;

* Searching by reactant and/or product substructure;

* Full literature citations for reactions;

* 2D database style reporting; and

* Text keyword data searching of citation elements,

  e.g. journal or author, and reaction conditions, e.g. solvent.

Interfaces to ORACLE, Ingres and System 1032

These new interfaces provide important read/write and search access for relational databases such as those created using ORACLE, Ingres and System 1032. Such relational databases provide a common form of storage for biological data and the interfaces allow these valuable data sources to be exploited using Chem-X functionality.

Client-server module

An important and useful new module provides the ability to use Chem-X effectively within a distributed database environment. Low level PCs, Apple Macintoshes and even terminals can be used to generate queries for searching on the main database, itself stored on a VAX or UNIX server.

Database Partners of Chemical Design

Chemical Design has reached agreement with a number of leading suppliers of chemical information to enable the data owned by these organizations to be supplied in a form compatible with Chem-X. Contact addresses and telephone/fax numbers are provided but further information about all of the products listed may be obtained from Chemical Design.

Chapman & Hall

Since 1990, Chemical Design has been able to supply the Chapman & Hall Dictionaries of Drugs (15,000 structures), Fine Chemicals (120,000 structures) and Natural Products (54,000 structures) in a format suitable for use with ChemDBS-3D. This database contains structural co-ordinates and text data, including literature references. A 2D database, based on the same dictionaries, is now available for use with the new ChemDBS-2D module.

Contact: Chemical Design Inc, Suite 120, 200 Route 17 South, Mahwah, NJ 07430, USA Tel: 201529 3323; Fax: 201529 2443

Chemical Design Ltd, Roundway House, Cromwell Park, Chipping Norton, Oxon, UK Tel: +44 (0)608 644000; Fax: +44 (0)608 642244

Derwent

Since 1992, Chemical Design has been able to supply the Derwent Standard Drugs File as a 3D database. This database, SDF-3D, contains information and co-ordinates for approximately 30,000 drug structures with biological activity. It is also available in a 2D format.

Contact: Chemical Design Inc, Suite 120, 200 Route 17 South, Mahwah, NJ 07430, USA Tel: 201529 3323; Fax: 201529 2443

Chemical Design Ltd, Roundway House, Cromwell Park, Chipping Norton, Oxon, UK Tel: +44 (0)608 644000; Fax: +44 (0)608 642244

SPECS and BioSPECS

The 2D database supplied by SPECS and BioSPECS contains information for around 20,000 structures of commercially available drug compounds.

Contact: Speciality Chemicals Services [SPECS] B.V., P.O. Box 17203, 2502 CE The Hague, The Netherlands; Tel: +31(0)70 36151 11; Fax: +31(0)70 36150 93 CAS

A 3D database of around 370,000 template structures is provided by Chemical Abstracts and includes CAS registry Numbers, connection tables and 3D co-ordinates.

Contact:  Chemical Abstracts Service, 2540 Olentangy River Road, P.O. Box 3012, Columbus, Ohio 43210-0012, USA; Tel: 614 447 3600; Fax: 614 447 3713

InfoChem

InfoChem currently supplies three selective reaction databases, subsets of their full database of around 1,800,000 reactions drawn from over 1000 journals world-wide. These are ChemSelect (10,000 reactions), ChemSynth (80,000 reactions) and ChemReact (370,000 reactions) and are all now compatible with Chemical Design's ChemRXS.

Contact: InfoChem GmbH, Landsberger Strasse 408, 8000 Munich 60, Germany Tel: +49 89/58 30 02; Fax: +49 89/58 03 839

Pool, Heller & Milne, 9520 Linden Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA Tel: (301) 493 6595; Fax: (301) 897 3487

Synopsys

Synopsys have abstracted a specialist protecting group database of 10,000 reactions. This provides systematic coverage of protection and deprotection reactions with an emphasis on stability and lability data and is appropriate for use with ChemRXS.

Contact: Synopsys Scientific Systems Ltd, 175 Woodhouse Lane, Leeds LS2 3AR, UK Tel: +44 (0)532 336514; Fax: +44 (0)532 336514

ISI

ISI supply a well-known database comprising around 180,000 current reactions.

Contact: Institute for Scientific Information, 3501 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA Tel: 215 386 0100; Fax: 215 386 6362

Hardware Partners

The Chem-X software is available on a wider range of hardware platforms than any other modelling software. On all implementations the same easy-to-use menu tree is supplied. Chemical Design currently has marketing agreements with a number of leading hardware manufacturers.

Digital Equipment Corporation

Chem-X was originally written for VAX computers in 1983. Since then, the range of supported hardware platforms has greatly expanded and, in 1993, will include the powerful Alpha series appropriate for database applications.

IBM

Chem-X performance on the IBM PC 386/486 is impressive, providing the full functionality also available on the faster RS/6000 series of workstations. However, the RS/6000, with exceptional disk I/O performance and fast CPU provides an option for use as a database server.

Silicon Graphics

Silicon Graphics supply a range of high performance graphics workstations, including the IRIS, Indigo and Challenge. All these workstations provide full Chem-X compatibility and are appropriate for graphically demanding modelling applications.

Apple Computer

The Apple Macintosh II implementation of Chem-X, first released in 1992, provides an alternative stand-alone desktop solution. As with the PC, all Chem-X functionality is available on the Macintosh.


NEC Moves to Estimated Selling Pricing
NEC Technologies Moves to Estimated Selling Pricing

Switch Seen as Beginning of Industry Trend

(Wood Dale, Ill., March 31, 1993)--NEC Technologies, Inc. today announced that the company will be moving to an estimated selling pricing (ESP) structure and gradually abandoning the suggested retail pricing (SRP) used by the company in the past.

NEC's Graphics and Advanced Media Business Units are the first to make the transition to estimated selling pricing, with the MultiSync FG and FGe monitors and the MultiSpin family of CD-ROM readers.

"We created the estimated selling pricing structure for the benefit of our customers," explained Marc Miller, vice president of NEC's Advanced Media Group. "Suggested retail pricing is artificially inflated and has become a fictitious, meaningless number. The new pricing structure gives consumers a more accurate picture of what they will pay for our products when they go to a computer reseller or superstore, and when consumers have more accurate information, they are able to make better informed purchasing decisions."

NEC believes that other PC and peripheral manufacturers will abandon suggested retail pricing in favor of ESP for the benefit of their customers in the near future.

"Estimated selling pricing is a trend that will sweep the industry in the next year," predicted Jim Schwabe, vice president of NEC's Graphics Group. "As customers become better educated about computer purchasing, they are demanding more accurate and useful information. Companies must realize they are hurting themselves and their customers by maintaining misleading suggested retail pricing."

Customers are not the only ones who benefit from the new pricing structure. Resellers have had a very positive reaction to the move as well.

"NEC's move to estimated selling pricing is indicative of a growing trend in the reseller channel as suggested retail pricing becomes a term of the past," explained Casey Scheer, NEC Marketing Manager for InaCom Corp, a national computer reseller. "The timing is right and judging from our customer response, the market is ready for a change."

New estimated selling prices for NEC products are as follows:

MultiSync Monitors            ESP

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

MultiSync 3FGe               $  635

MultiSync 4FGe                  755

MultiSync 5FGe                1,155

MultiSync 5FG                 1,355

MultiSync 6FG                 2,455

MultiSpin CD-ROM Readers      ESP

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

MultiSpin 74                 $  615

MultiSpin 84                    550

MultiSpin 38                    465

MultiSpin 38 Battery Pack        85

XT/AT Interface Kit              80

Mac Interface Kit                35

PS/2 Interface Kit              130

Parallel-to-SCSI Interface       95

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

NEC Technologies

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719-2298

508-264-8000


Michael Banks to Connect Mag. Editorial Staff
MICHAEL A. BANKS BEGINS "THE INSIDE LINE" COLUMN FOR CONNECT MAGAZINE

ANN ARBOR, Michigan (March 24, 1993) -- Pegasus Press today announced the addition of Michael A. Banks as an editorial staff columnist for CONNECT magazine.

With literally thousands of book and magazine article credits to his name, Michael Banks is recognized as one of the premiere authors in the computer industry. He has authored such books as DELPHI: The Official Guide (Brady Books/Simon & Schuster), The Modem Reference (Brady Books/Simon & Schuster), Understanding FAX and E-mail (Howard W. Sams & Co.), Portable Communications (Brady Books/Simon & Schuster), and Laptop Power (Brady Books/Simon & Schuster), as well as co-authored Pournelle's PC Communications Bible (with Jerry Pournelle, published by Microsoft Press).

In a new column for CONNECT called "The Inside Line," Michael Banks voices his opinions and shares with readers his unique viewpoint on the online world of telecomputing. "I'll be more outspoken," says Banks, "and, depending on the reader, more controversial in this new column than the majority of computer magazine publications allow."

Along with fast facts, useful news and information, Banks will bring readers the truth about what's available online, changes in the online world, why things are as they are online, and what's happening behind the scenes. "I'm going to shoot from the hip, but with accuracy," Banks said.

Banks promises his column will deliver some fascinating opinions and extrapolations, all delivered in the style hundreds of thousands of computer users have enjoyed in his books and other publications.

The first installment of "The Inside Line" will appear in the July/August issue of CONNECT, which will be available on newsstand and bookstore shelves in June.

"We feel Michael is an excellent complement to CONNECT's current line-up of columnists and authors," says Patricia Snyder-Rayl, managing editor for CONNECT. "Michael's style of writing and ability to explain cutting-edge technology in easy to understand terms is exactly what we want readers to find in CONNECT."

CONNECT is a bi-monthly magazine covering the major commercial online services (such as CompuServe, America Online, GEnie, Delphi and BIX), the Internet and bulletin board system networks (such as Fidonet and RIME). The publication is available from newsstands and bookstores everywhere.

Pegasus Press, Inc.

3487 Braeburn Circle

Ann Arbor, MI 48108


NEC Strengthens MultiSync FG Monitor Line
NEC STRENGTHENS MULTISYNC FG MONITOR LINE WITH THREE NEW MAINSTREAM MONITORS

NEC Moves To Provide End Users With More MultiSync Quality for Less

Wood Dale, Ill., April 5, 1993--NEC Technologies, Inc. creates a new standard in the computer monitor market today by introducing the MultiSync FGe Series, designed to optimize display performance in mainstream windowing environments by increasing refresh rates and widening the scan range at a lower cost to users. The bold move by NEC represents its commitment to satisfy growing demand from mainstream users who require larger active display areas in GUI-oriented applications.

NEC will divide its breakthrough MultiSync FG product line into two segments to provide better targeted products at a higher value. The new MultiSync FGe Series is optimized for the mainstream market while the larger, more advanced MultiSync 5FG and 6FG will remain targeted toward professional applications.

NEC has created the attractively-priced MultiSync 5FGe 17-inch monitor to address the rapidly expanding number of mainstream monitor users who are moving to the 17-inch arena. The MultiSync 5FGe is specifically designed for graphical user interface environments, maintains MultiSync quality and reliability and features Dual Dynamic Beam Focus (DDBF). By dynamically focusing the electron guns in both the horizontal and vertical axis, DDBF provides a sharp, crisp, consistent image across the display and in the corners. This feature is crucial in providing the largest, usable display area for large-screen applications.

In addition, the MultiSync 3FGe and MultiSync 4FGe, are enhancements of NEC's award-winning MultiSync 3FGx and MultiSync 4FG 15-inch monitors.

"The 17-inch monitor market is the hottest market today because it allows the user to display multiple windows with more information," said Jim Schwabe, vice president of NEC's Graphics Marketing Group. "As more end users make the transition to larger-screen displays, they want to buy our MultiSync monitors because they are easier to look at, more comfortable to use and they let the user run applications more efficiently."

Optimized For The Mainstream Marketplace...

NEC embraces mainstream users by offering the most extensive multi-platform compatibility in a display and the FGe Series enhanced features at a lower cost. The MultiSync FGe Series demonstrates NEC's commitment to the mainstream marketplace by enhancing its versatile multiple-frequency FG Series with higher refresh rates, increasing scanning capabilities and adding an extensive three-year warranty.

"NEC is essentially enacting an approximate $50 million price reduction on MultiSync FGe monitors by lowering the end user cost between $50 and $200 each and adding another year on to the warranty," said Schwabe. "That price break enables more end users to buy a quality MultiSync monitor and keeps us one-step ahead of our competitors who have consistently cloned many features NEC invented in the original MultiSync FG series, such as bezel-to-bezel images with FullScan display and on-screen color control with the AccuColor Control System.

"The FGe series also addresses markets such as SoHo (small office/home office) and Fortune 1000 users who want an NEC MultiSync monitor at home," said Schwabe.

Surpassing the industry standard, NEC increased the vertical refresh to support up to 76Hz to Provide virtually flicker-free images. The industry and VESA standard flicker-free image vertical refresh is 70Hz. To reinforce NEC's multiple-frequency philosophy and increase the FGe Series capabilities, the new monitors have a wider scan range that includes compatibility with IBM's new XGA-2 standard.

Once again, NEC goes above and beyond the norm by backing its products with a three-year warranty on all MultiSync FGe Series monitors. The limited warranty is representative of the premium components, workmanship, detail and overall quality that goes into each NEC MultiSync monitor. The warranty covers labor, parts and display tube for three years. No other monitor manufacturer offers such a warranty.

Another NEC strength is the multi-platform compatibility. On MS-DOS platforms, the new monitors are capable of supporting 1024 x 768 at up to 76 Hz, and up to 60 Hz on the 3FGe. On Macintosh platforms, the 3FGe supports multiple resolutions including 640 x 480 at 67Hz and 832 x 624 at 75 Hz. In addition to supporting Apple's 13- and 16-inch resolutions, the 4FGe and 5FGe will also support the Apple 19-inch resolution of 1024 x 768 at 75Hz.

This added compatibility allows the monitor to take advantage of graphics boards that offer higher resolutions at higher refresh rates. The integration of all the FGe Series features, such as high vertical refresh, provides users with maximum protection of their hardware investment.

NEC ErgoDesign For Maximum Productivity

The new MultiSync FGe Series of monitors continues to offer users the best performance and highest quality images possible in today's market. The FGe Series offers many of the same technologically advanced features in the revolutionary FG Series, such as FullScan, Dual Dynamic Beam Focus (5FGe), the Invar Shadow Mask and the AccuColor Control System (4FGe).

Like the original FG Series, which has earned more than 30 prestigious industry awards, the MultiSync 3FGe, 4FGe and 5FGe feature FullScan capability which enables the user to display bezel-to-bezel images, increasing the active display area to one of the largest in the industry. NEC's Invar Shadow Mask improves contrast and makes each monitor up to 20 percent brighter than conventional CRT's without sacrificing focus quality.

Additional features in the FGe Series that sharpen focus are the flatter-square technology and the polished CRT. The MPR II low magnetic field monitors comply with strict Swedish emission regulations to offer the most comfortable computing environment possible.

NEC's trend-setting AccuColor Control System is featured in the MultiSync 4FGe. AccuColor allows the user to adjust on-screen colors to best suit their needs and preference.

Another feature that gives users greater control of their computing environment is the OCLI-coated NEC MultiSync Monitor Lens. The MultiSync Monitor Lens is designed for improved viewing in ambient lighting conditions and complements the MultiSync FGe color monitors by increasing the images' contrast while decreasing glare. OCLI-coated screens are believed to help prevent computer vision syndrome, or CVS.

Two versions of the MultiSync Monitor Lens are available--standard tint lenses, made for GUI environments, increase contrast and reduce glare. Dark tint lenses provide maximum contrast in areas where the user works near a window or under bright fluorescent lighting.

Powerful Solution for Macintosh Computers

Since the introduction of the original MultiSync FG monitors in October, 1991, NEC increased its Macintosh marketshare significantly. With today's announcement, NEC hopes to build upon this momentum and further satisfy Mac users with the high-performance, low-cost MultiSync/MacFG Solution.

The low-cost solution consists of one of the three new FGe Series monitors and NEC's recently introduced MacFG 24Xp interface card. The MacFG 24Xp interface card provides optimized timings for NEC's FG and FGe Series of monitors and are designed to allow Macintosh users to switch resolutions on-the-fly with NEC MultiSync monitors and take advantage of 24-bit true color support.

All MultiSync FGe monitors support the Macintosh II family, Centris series, Quadra series, LC series, Performa 400, 600 and 600CD, Powerbook 160, 165C and 180, and Powerbook Duo's Mini Dock and Duo Dock.

"NEC is focusing heavily on making its MultiSync products ideal for graphical user interface environments--which was pioneered by Macintosh users," said Tom Grau, marketing manager for NEC's Graphics Macintosh Marketing Group. "The FG monitor series was optimized for graphical user interface environments--it's no wonder our MultiSync monitors have been such a success in the Mac market."

MultiSync Professional Series

NEC's popular high-end 17-inch MultiSync 5FG and 21-inch 6FG color monitors make up the Professional Series of the MultiSync monitor line. An integral part of NEC's MultiSync line, the 5FG and 6FG are geared toward advanced graphics markets such as color DTP, imaging and CAD/CAM, due to their large screen size and advanced features such as AccuColor and higher resolutions. A MultiSync 5FG or 6FG purchased on or after April S will have a three-year warranty.

Pricing and Availability

The MultiSync 5FGe is currently available through NEC's nationwide network of authorized resellers. The MultiSync 3FGe and 4FGe will be shipping in volume by the end of April.

To better reflect the price end users will pay for MultiSync monitors, NEC has replaced suggested retail prices with estimated selling prices. The estimated selling prices of the entire MultiSync monitor line are:

MultiSync 3FGe 15-inch color monitor       $  635

MultiSync 4FGe 15-inch color monitor          755

  (with AccuColor Control System)

MultiSync 5FGe 17-inch color monitor        1,155

MultiSync 5FG 17-inch color monitor         1,355

  (with AccuColor Control System)

MultiSync 6FG 21-inch color monitor         2,455

  (with AccuColor Control System)

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

NEC Technologies

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719-2298

508-264-8000


MULTI-AD SERVICES SHIPS MULTI-AD SEARCH 2.0

March 31, 1993 -- PEORIA, IL--Multi-Ad Services, Inc., announces the release and shipping of a significant upgrade to Multi-Ad Search 1.0, the full-featured graphic cataloging and retrieval system for the professional electronic production environment.

According to Marc Radosevic, marketing manager, Media Services Division, "Search 2.0 is new from the ground up. We've more than tripled the number of images Search can handle, and we can now open and search across multiple catalogs. In addition, our search and retrieval times have been cut literally in half. This version is a quantum leap in technology over Aldus Fetch. In fact, when you look at the feature set of Aldus Fetch and the old version of Search [released in 1991], it's difficult to tell the difference between the two."

Multi-Ad Search 2.0 is totally rewritten with a faster database engine and cleaner user-interface. The upgrade maintains all Search 1.0 capabilities and provides the ability to convert Version 1.0 files as well as Aldus Fetch 1.0 files. Search 2.0 can now easily handle 160,000+ images per catalog from various file formats including EPS (Mac/PC), PICT, TIFF, RIFF, JPEG, MacPaint and Multi-Ad Creator. Also, Search 2.0 allows the user to open and search across up to ten catalogs at once. Art can be found whether it is mounted locally or on servers and an be accessed by multiple users in a network environment. Search 2.0 can launch other applications, and it automatically recatalogs images modified by an application it has launched. With Search 2.0's improved printing flexibility, the user is able to print catalogs, keyword lists, thumbnails and/or actual images. Optimized for System 7, the Place Apple event support within Search 2.0 provides tighter integration with Multi-Ad Creator, QuarkXPress and Aldus PageMaker. Multi-Ad Search 2.0 also has the ability to read and access pnot resources.

Search 2.0 catalogs will be provided with Multi-Ad's monthly electronic art services, AdBuilder and SCANT". In addition, Search 2.0 catalogs will also enhance the electronic Kwikee Illustration System. A run-time version will be available for CD-ROM publishers.

All registered Search 1.0 users will receive free upgrades ($9.95 U.S. dollars for shipping and handling). The suggested retail price of Search 2.0 is $249. In addition, multi-user packages will be available. The 5-user pack retails for $935 and the 10-user pack for $1800.

Multi-Ad Search is a product of Multi-Ad Services, Inc. For over 46 years, Multi-Ad Services has provided customers with the most advanced and comprehensive retail advertising services available.

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

309-692-1530;  fax: 309-692-6566


Apple Announces PowerCD CD Player
Apple Announces The PowerCD CD Player

New Portable Three-in One CD ROM Drive Offers Portability, Photo CD, and CD-Audio Capabilities

HANNOVER, Germany--March 24, 1993--Apple Computer, Inc. today announced its plans for the first in a line of CD-ROM-based multimedia products from its Personal Interactive Electronics Division (PIE). PowerCD is a three-in-one CD player that enables users to play CD-ROM, Photo CD and audio compact discs. Apple expects the addition of PowerCD along with its existing AppleCD 300 to further promote CD-ROM technology and enhance its offerings for the Macintosh personal computer family.

Available as an external device, the portable PowerCD drive offers three-in-one capabilities. The combination of PowerCDs multiple features will offer users access to Macintosh CD-ROM titles on their computer, full support for Kodak Photo CD formats and the ability to play audio CDs, when connected to a television or Macintosh computer. The new PowerCD player offers users a flexible portable device for accessing CD-ROM or Photo CD discs for business presentations, reference databases, photo archives, learning programs and entertainment. The PowerCD is light weight and can be battery operated, thus making it a perfect peripheral for mobile professionals.

"Building on the positive response Apple has received from our CD-ROM offerings, the availability of PowerCD is great news for mobile business professionals, home computer users and the CD-ROM community. Users will have a light weight, easy to use, portable CD-ROM solution that can access CD titles, view Photo CD images and play audio compact discs" said Gaston Bastiaens, vice president and general manager of Apple's PIE Division.

PowerCD Capabilities

PowerCD has a built-in SCSI port to enable users to connect their Macintosh desktop or PowerBook computer and use it as a CD-ROM drive.

Viewing Photo CD Images on a Television or Macintosh Computer

By connecting the PowerCD drive to a television, users can access photographic images stored on single and multisession Kodak Photo CD discs. By using the PowerCD remote control, customers will be able to zoom in, rotate, crop and view images in any order. A Photo CD image is a digitized version of a 35 mm photograph or negative that a user can also open and view on the Macintosh computer screen. With the PowerCD drive and a Macintosh computer running Apple QuickTime multimedia software, a user can easily access high-quality images, cut, copy, and paste the images into documents, and edit them using Macintosh graphics applications.

In addition to the Photo CD capabilities, PowerCD also supports the ISO/High Sierra file format and the CD Digital Audio Format (CD-DA). These formats allow CD title developers to integrate audio, text and graphics. Business professionals will be able to take Photo CD presentations and play them on a television for customers, customizing a presentation to suit the customer's needs by preprogramming a slide sequence.

Playing Audio CDs

The PowerCD player can be connected easily to a stereo system and headphones to play music compact discs for high-quality digital sound.

Pricing, Availability and Distribution

The PowerCD is scheduled to be available in the summer of 1993 through authorized Apple resellers. Pricing, availability and distribution will vary by country.

The PowerCD drive is intended to include a remote control for Photo CD and CD playback, an AC adaptor and a CVBS cinch-style video cable to connect to a television.

Headquartered in Cupertino, Calif., Apple is a leading supplier of computers to consumer, education, business and government markets worldwide. A recognized pioneer and innovator in the personal computer industry, Apple has been named first in customer satisfaction among business computer users in the United States for the past two years by J.D. Powers and Associates.

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

408-996-1010


The GUI Guide: International Terminology
The GUI Guide

International Terminology for the Windows Interface

European Edition

Software developers with an eye to expanding into global markets can now turn to a handy reference and electronic glossary from Microsoft Press called THE GUI GUIDE: INTERNATIONAL TERMINOLOGY FOR THE WINDOWS INTERFACE.

Many U.S.-originated software products have the potential to generate more than half their revenues abroad. Maintaining consistency with standard Microsoft Windows operating system-based programs is key to creating intuitive, user-friendly applications for sale around the world. THE GUI GUIDE provides terminology translations and proposed guidelines for developing or localizing Windows-based applications for Europe--the largest market for computer software.

Part 1 of the book describes the main components of the Microsoft Windows graphical user interface (GUI) and offers localization guidelines. Programmers will find suggestions for sizing menus and dialog boxes; standardizing toolbars, rulers, and progress indicators; localizing menu names and access keys; and definitions of terms for dialog box controls, user actions, and object linking and embedding (OLE).

In part Part 2, hundreds of GUI components--listed both by category and alphabetically--are translated into 14 European languages: French, German, Italian, Spanish, Czech, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, Hungarian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, and Swedish.

And to make localization faster and easier, the accompanying 720KB 3.5-inch disk contains all the terminology translations in both Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Windows Write formats. Ordering information for one 1.2-MB 5.25-inch disk is also included. Microsoft Windows operating system version 3.1 is required. To display and print the Czech, Hungarian, and Polish terminology, the user needs Windows 3.1 for Central and Eastern Europe. To display and print the Russian terminology, the user needs the Russian (Cyrillic) version of Windows 3.1.

Appendixes include illustrations of keyboard layouts in 14 languages; tables of national standards for time, currency, and other elements; and tables of various character sets. A comprehensive index helps readers quickly locate information on any topic in the book.

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. Titles ranging from self-paced 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


Apple & Siemens Strategic Telecom Cooperation
Apple and Siemens Announce Strategic Telecommunications Cooperation Based on Newton Technologies

First Collaboration Will Combine Newton Technology With Siemens and ROLM Telephony

CUPERTINO, California--March 11, 1993 - Apple Computer, Inc. and Siemens Private Communication Systems Group today announced their plans to combine certain Apple technologies with Siemens and ROLM telephony capabilities. The areas of cooperation are intended to include: equipping business and consumer telephones with Apple's Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) technology; wireless technology; integrated voice-data solutions for call centers; and personal productivity solutions.

Siemens anticipates that the first result of the Apple-Siemens collaboration will be NotePhone, from Siemens and ROLM. This new technology is planned to be demonstrated for the first time, publicly, at the CeBIT Fair in Hanover, Germany on March 25. The NotePhone project will combine Siemens and ROLM telephony and Apple's Newton technology to provide access to telephone and fax features. By incorporating Siemens telephony capabilities and Newton technology, the companies anticipate that users will be able to both carry out telephone transactions easily and spontaneously, and access messaging and information services. Siemens and ROLM anticipate providing NotePhones for standard (analog) telephone lines commonly found in homes and in hotels, as well as for digital business communications systems from Siemens and ROLM for enhanced functionality and business productivity.

"As the leading provider of private telecommunications systems, Siemens and its U.S. subsidiary, ROLM, provide telecommunications expertise and market presence that will complement our existing technologies and marketing efforts worldwide," said Michael Spindler, president and chief operating officer of Apple. "Siemens and ROLM's advanced telecommunications technology combined with Apple's ability to make sophisticated computer technology useful and accessible makes perfect sense for this cooperative venture."

"Apple is one of the most innovative designers of personal computing products in the world," said Peter Pribilla, president of both Siemens Private Communication Systems Group and ROLM. "With Newton, Apple has taken a leadership role in PDA technology and its innovative features for noncomputer users. We plan to leverage this technology for Siemens personal communications services."

Headquartered in Cupertino, Calif., Apple is a leading supplier of computing technologies to consumer, education, business, and government markets worldwide. A recognized pioneer and innovator in the personal computer industry, Apple has been named first in customer satisfaction among business computer users in the United States for the past two years by J.D. Powers and Associates.

Siemens Private Communication Systems Group is the world leader in private telecommunications systems with more than 400,000 customers and 900,000 systems installed worldwide. ROLM, a Siemens Company, is a leading supplier of telecommunications products and applications in the United States. As a worldwide entity, Siemens AG employs more than 400,000 people and had sales exceeding $49 billion in FY 1991-92.

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

408-996-1010


Racal-Datacom Anti-Pollution Recognized
ANTI-POLLUTION EFFORTS AT RACAL-DATACOM RECOGNIZED BY ENVIRONMENTAL WORKSHOP

April 7, 1993 -- SUNRISE, FL. -- Racal-Datacom of Sunrise was featured as one of "Broward County's Success Stories" during the 1993 Pollution Prevention Workshop sponsored by the South Florida Chapter of the Florida Association of Environmental Professionals, the Broward County Department of Natural Resources Protection and the Dade County Department of Environmental Resources Management.

The Broward officials selected Racal for their workshop display after touring the company's Harrison Park manufacturing facility.

"Racal-Datacom was able to educate us about the procedures that it used for pollution prevention in the manufacturing of electronic circuit boards," said Kay M. Gervasi, one of three Broward County Department of Natural Resources Protection engineers touring the company's manufacturing facilities. "Now we can go to other companies with similar activities and teach them what we've learned from Racal."

Bud Hartman, Principal Facility Engineer--Environmental Compliance at Racal Datacom and Jauwhei Hong of Process Engineering conducted the tour at Harrison Park, the Racal headquarters and manufacturing facility in Sunrise.

Gervasi, manager of the department's Pollution Prevention and Control Section, said companies are being urged by state and local government agencies to do more pollution prevention. In the case of Racal-Datacom, the company has already taken steps to promote pollution prevention, so the county pollution fighters learned from those steps and now can teach them to other companies in the community.

Most companies in Broward County are smaller than Racal-Datacom and can't assign people to watch environmental issues the way that company has done, Gervasi added.

During their tour the county pollution prevention engineers took photographs of projects where Racal had reduced the use of 1,1,1-Trichloroethane solvent and CFC (Freon) solvents by adoption of no-clean machinery in the printed circuit board manufacturing The no-clean technology also saves 6,000 gallons of fresh water daily that previously was needed in the manufacturing process. The use of bins to collect materials for recycling also was noted by the county anti-pollution engineers.

More than 275 persons "from private industry, government agencies, and the environmental consulting industry met to discuss problems, share solutions and formulate goals for the future" at the March 10 workshop in Dania, Hartman said.

Zang Printing of Hollywood and List Industries of Deerfield Beach were the other companies visited by the county anti-pollution engineers and photographed for the Broward County display at the workshop.

Racal-Datacom is a leading independent provider of data communications products, systems and services designed to meet the business objectives of corporations and government organizations. The company reported revenues of more than $606 million for fiscal year 1992.

Racal-Datacomm, 1601 N. Harrison Parkway, Sunrise, FL 33323-2899

Mailing Address: PO Box 40744, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33340-7044

305-846-1601;  Fax: 305-846-3935


Belk Stores Refashions Network
BELK STORES REFASHIONS NETWORK USING RACAL, MCI AND BELLSOUTH

April 7, 1993 -- SUNRISE, FL. -- When the Belk Department Stores, a major retail organization consisting of approximately 300 department stores located in the Southeastern United States extending from Maryland to Texas, decided to shed its old garb of analog telecommunications in favor of stylishly elegant and economical digital communications, the retailer looked to Racal-Datacom, MCI Communications and BellSouth to tailor the transformation.

The old analog network typically was a 9600 bits per second leased-line network, primarily supporting an SNA application. There were a few exceptions. such as bisync dialin lines for vendor orders. As stores had been added to the network, the network had been patched and stitched. But by 1990 Belk realized it needed to trim these lines and to evaluate the entire network.

"We had a large application that we were installing, Merchandise Processing System, that generated a need to add a lot of terminals at those stores," recalls Jim Sullivan, Director of Operations and Technical Services, of Belk Stores Services, Inc. "And we needed faster service. Although our credit authorization response time traditionally has been fast, the new application required fast response for all those new terminals. We could see that digital is the direction people are going. Therefore Belk decided to look to the future with a new digital network.

"We heard many good things about digital, like less errors and less modem turnaround time with digital service units," Sullivan said.

The company looked at a number of vendors for equipment and long-haul carriers. It even looked at VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal satellite) networking.

Finally, the decision went to Racal for equipment, MCI for long-haul carrier service and Southern Bell to handle local loops. Southern Bell agreed to coordinate local loop projects with independent carriers in locations not served by Southern Bell.

"Now we can run all our sites at a data speed of at least 9.6 kilobits per second (Kbps), the former analog speed, or higher," Sullivan said. "We agreed on 19.2 Kbps as a goal, although most sites run at 16.8 for the efficiency of being able to get three lines in a 56 Kbps pipe.

"The new digital network gives us the ability to give better service to our customers."

Belk's new network technology allows the retailer to transport data between the mainframe computer and the local stores in a highly efficient manner with few errors.

RESPONSE TIME

"Digital is much more efficient than analog," Sullivan observed. "When we switched from analog 9.6 Kbps to digital 9.6, people kept telling us that the response time was faster. That was because digital is more efficient and error-free, so the response time quickened even though we are running at the same data rate."

There were three to five stores on a line. Now, typically, there is a maximum of three.

Credit authorization is done in three to five seconds year-round, even during the holiday rush season. Third-party credit authorizations have a five to seven-second response time. But in non-peak time, this is 1.5 to 2 seconds response time. CRT applications, such as gift registering, have a four to five-second response time. (This does not include batch printing.)

The network is built around 28 hubs with one to three 56 Kbps lines into each hub. Most have three. Each 56 Kbps line splits into two or three lower speed lines. Each hub uses Racal-Datacom Excalibur Digital Access Products, Omnimux 7000 Channel Banks and will add Excalibur Dial Restoral System, all in a contract Racal values at more than $2 million. The hubs are in stores or group offices.

Belk started using Racal-Datacom Communications Management System (CMS) Racal Management System in its analog days. It also chose CMS for the digital network. Consequently, Belk Stores Service, Inc. didn't have to retrain network operators except for the recent addition of innovations. Therefore "our people were just as comfortable using the new network management system as they had been using the older Racal equipment," Sullivan said.

The cooperation between Southern Bell, MCI and Racal was clearly beneficial to all. Over the past two years Racal entered joint marketing programs with MCI and Southern Bell's parent BellSouth. In Belk's case, the three companies were working separately in 1990 when initial investigations about a cutover to digital technology was being evaluated by the retail chain. By the time Belk was ready to sign contracts in 1991, the three communications companies were working together as a team.

BellSouth is an Atlanta-based international telecommunications holding company. Its BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc. subsidiary provides local telephone service to more than 18.5 million lines in nine Southeastern states and also markets and maintains standalone and fully integrated communications systems.

MCI, headquartered in Washington, DC, offers a full range of domestic and global telecommunications services through one of the world's largest state-of-the-art networks. With 1992 revenue of over $10 billion, the company is the second largest long distance provider in the United States and has more than 67 overseas offices in 55 countries and places.

Racal-Datacom is a leading independent provider of data communications products, systems and services, with a direct presence or representation in more than 80 nations. The firm offers business solutions for the implementation. management and support of enterprise networks from the desktop through local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).

Racal-Datacomm, 1601 N. Harrison Parkway, Sunrise, FL 33323-2899

Mailing Address: PO Box 40744, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33340-7044

305-846-1601;  Fax: 305-846-3935


CYMA Bundles LANtastic with Software
ARTISOFT & CYMA ENTER INTO AGREEMENT TO BUNDLE LANTASTIC LOCAL AREA NETWORK WITH ACCOUNTING, MEDICAL SOFTWARE

Limited-Time Offer & Special Pricing Available Through CYMA

(TUCSON, AZ - April 5, 1993) - Artisoft, Inc. announced today that it has joined forces with CYMA Systems, Inc. to bundle LANtastic NodeRunner 2000/C DOS Starter Kits with CYMA's accounting and medical software packages at special, limited-time pricing for Artisoft and CYMA resellers. This promotional offer is available immediately through CYMA and expires on June 30, 1993. Reseller Opportunities

"CYMA is a recognized leader in the development of accounting software and has an excellent reputation for its quality service and preferred products," commented Dave Hallmen, Artisoft's Vice President of Sales & Marketing. "This unique agreement will allow Artisoft's resellers to reap the benefits of the growing opportunities in the accounting and medical arenas, while CYMA's resellers will be able to bring the advantages of peer-to-peer networking to their strong customer base."

Five Bundles

Five different software bundles will be available to Artisoft and CYMA resellers. The following software packages from CYMA will be bundled with Artisoft's LANtastic NodeRunner 2000/C DOS Starter Kits:

-Medical Practice Management II MPM

-MPM II/data base dimension (MPM/dbd)

-Professional Accounting Series III PAS

-PAS III Client Accounting

-General Business System II GBS

LANtastic Network Starter Kits offer a complete hardware and software networking solution for two PCs - the LANtastic network operating system software with support for up to 500 users, two LANtastic NodeRunner 2000/C adapters, cabling and documentation. Additional LANtastic Ethernet Add-On Kits will also be offered separately at special pricing, so that users can expand their networks easily and economically.

Special Pricing

"The special pricing on these bundles is seen as a way to underwrite the costs of a reseller's entry into the lucrative world of peer-to-peer networking," said Greg Vokoun, CYMA's Vice President of Product Development. "This is the first time that the two leaders in their respective fields were able to form such a strategic alliance."

This promotion is being offered through June 30, 1993 and is subject to change without further notice. The special pricing will remain in effect only on orders placed on or before June 30, 1993.

For more information or to order these software bundles, contact CYMA Systems, Inc. at 1400 East Southern Avenue, Tempe, AZ 85282. Corporate 602/831-2607. Fax 602/345-5703.

CYMA offers a full range of general accounting, medical practice management and job costing software. A major advantage of CYMA products is that by design, data stored in one system can be easily transferred and upgraded to more powerful systems, without rekeying data.

Founded in 1980, CYMA Systems, Inc., is a recognized leader in the development of accounting, medical and dental software. CYMA, based in Tempe, Arizona, offers a full range of general accounting software solutions plus vertical market software serving the medical, construction and manufacturing industries. CYMA software products are sold and supported through a nationwide network of Certified Dealers and Consultants with additional support available through CYMA's technical support staff.

Artisoft develops and manufactures a full line of innovative, cost-effective network communication solutions including the LANtastic Local Area Network. Recognized as the leader in peer-to-peer networking for DOS and Windows environments, the LANtastic network also offers multi-platform connectivity solutions for NetWare, TCP/IP and Macintosh systems. It allows up to 500 users of IBMX -compatible computers on one network to connect and share information and peripheral devices such as printers, hard drives and CD-ROMs, and has won numerous industry awards for its robust features, cost-effective performance and ease of use. Artisoft distributes the LANtastic network and its other connectivity products in over 70 countries worldwide and maintains international offices in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Latin America, Canada, Australia and Japan.

For more information about Artisoft or its product line, contact Artisoft, Inc. at 691 E. River Road, Tucson, AZ 85704. Sales 800/846-9726, ext. 611. Corporate 602/293-4000. Fax 602/293-8065.


Apple Workgroup Servers Introduced
Apple Introduces New High Performance, Easy-To-Use Servers and Services

CUPERTINO, California--March 22, 1993 - The Enterprise Systems Division of Apple Computer, Inc. today introduced three new Apple Workgroup Servers offering significantly lower lifecycle costs due to their superior ease-of-use and administration. It also announced enhanced versions of AppleShare file and print services with enhanced performance and AppleSearch, a powerful new information access and retrieval service for Apple Macintosh personal computer workgroups.

The servers--Apple Workgroup Server 60, the Apple Workgroup Server 80 and Apple Workgroup Server 95--are scheduled to be unveiled at a worldwide launch at the CeBIT Computer Fair, Hannover, Germany on March 25,1993. They provide competitive price/performance for workgroups ranging from five to hundreds. The Apple Workgroup Server 95 can be tuned either for optimal file and print performance or high performance relational database use.

Apple has been working with leading database developers such as Oracle and ACI to ensure that their relational database software and tools are available at launch for the Apple Workgroup Server 95.

"The new Workgroup Server models are designed to provide extremely attractive price/performance and significantly better return on investment for a range of enterprises from K-12 school districts all the way through major industrial corporations," said Apple Computer, Inc. Enterprise Systems Division vice president and general manager Morris Taradalsky.

Major Performance Boosts Make Apple Share 4.0 and Apple Share Pro Attractive Upgrades for Macintosh-mainly Workgroups

Apple simultaneously introduced two new versions of the company's easy-to-use AppleShare software for scalable, high-performance file and print services for Apple Macintosh-mainly workgroups.

The two new versions, AppleShare 4.0 and AppleShare Pro, are also scheduled to be officially unveiled at a worldwide product launch at CeBIT. According to Taradalsky, "These two new versions of AppleShare now give customers a wider range of file and print solutions. Now there are AppleShare products that can meet the performance and capacity needs of any size Macintosh-mainly workgroup."

Support for DOS and Windows Systems

Apple also announced today that it intends to make available a new product, AppleTalk Connection for DOS and Windows, based on the PhoneNET PC product from Farallon Computing. This product will provide a cross platform file and print solution for mixed Macintosh and PC workgroups.

AppleTalk Connection for DOS and Windows allows PC users to access files stored on the new Apple Workgroup Servers, as well as other AppleShare Servers. The software provides an AppleTalk network connection for Windows or DOS computers and allows them to access file servers and printers on the network. AppleTalk Connection for DOS and Windows supports Ethernet, LocalTalk and Token Ring networks.

AppleTalk Connection for DOS and Windows will be available worldwide from Apple. Farallon will continue to provide PhoneNET PC software as a part of its Timbuktu for Windows product. Timbuktu for Windows and Timbuktu for Macintosh provide peer-to-peer networking services, including file exchange and remote control.

AppleSearch Provides Sophisticated 'Natural language' Queries on Test-based Information, Providing Users with Personalized, Relevant Access

AppleSearch, announced today, is a major new workgroup technology aimed at giving Macintosh users personalized, easy access to large libraries of documents on file servers without having to learn complicated search commands. It combines features found on high-end bibliographic information retrieval software with Apple's traditional ease of use and administration. It uses a relevance ranking algorithm to ensure the information retrieved is of most value for the user.

"AppleSearch is designed to deliver both easy access to unstructured information and a way to present that information that is personalized for individuals," said Taradalsky.

"The vast majority of information in any organization is not in structured databases but rather in memos, letters, reports and faxes stored on file servers. Prior to AppleSearch, users have had to choose between relatively unsophisticated single-user search tools and expensive, complex dedicated search and retrieval systems to find information. AppleSearch brings powerful information access to the mainstream of computing without the high-end price tag."

AppleSearch's powerful search engine uses natural-language requests to create "reporters" which search libraries of text-based server files on an AppleSearch server. The search results can be presented to the user in a variety of easy-to-understand and access formats.

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

408-996-1010


Call Conductor Automates Standards of Service
NEW "CALL CONDUCTOR" FROM ANSWERSET AUTOMATES "STANDARDS OF SERVICE" FOR CUSTOMER SUPPORT

Cupertino, CA -- April 7, 1993 -- Call Conductor, a system that automatically monitors the open calls received by support departments and takes management-defined action, is now available from AnswerSet Corp, the company announced today.

"Call Conductor is unique in the marketplace," said AnswerSet President Bill Mulert. "It enables management to set up a 'standard of service' and have absolute assurance that no customer or call will fall through the cracks."

Call Conductor enables service and support managers to pre-define a level of service, for example desired response times for priority calls, and then to define the actions required when those times are exceeded. Calls may be escalated to different service representatives or dispatched to one of a wide range of "flagging" services supported by AnswerSet. These "flags" include E-mail messages, Novell pop-up messages, pager activation, faxes, alarms, sending recorded messages over the telephone and interrupt messages in Clientel, AnswerSet's customer information system.

Service management has complete control over the triggers that cause different actions to take place. The triggers can be based on elapsed times, the value in various fields of the call or customer record, or conditional to accommodate customers who have purchased different levels of service. Call Conductor also provides management with a complete record of all "exceptions" (calls that have exceeded one of the service standard parameters), and a chronological account of the follow-up actions taken.

Call Conductor is sold as a $1,495 option to Clientele's Standard Edition, and included in the Clientele Extended Edition.

Clientele is a customer information system that uses PC-based distributed database technology to maintain and track customer and product information for instant, immediate response. Clientele's Extended Edition lists for between $1,495 and $29,995 depending on the number of concurrent users. Clientele's Standard Edition, a limited version of the Extended Edition, lists for between $795 and $9,995. For more information contact AnswerSet at 21771 Stevens Creek, Blvd., Cupertino, CA. 95014, 408-996-8683.


PullDown V5.00 Shareware DOS Menu Shell
Shareware Release PullDown Version 5.00

PullDown is a DOS menu shell system that makes getting in and out of applications "GUI like" on almost any PC. It is the only fully CUA compliant menu shell system available today. The distinguished major capabilities of PullDown are indeed impressive:

* Elegantly designed drop-down industry standard interface that

  is fully mouse-aware... much like PC Tools Deluxe from Central

  Point or MS Word from Microsoft

* Complete menu security, including defined security levels by

  menu item with central user database administration and use

  tracking... plus timed-events and hypertext help

* User-defined help screens for any or all menu items

* Two menu definition edit modes: an easy to master simplified

  editor and an advanced full-screen programmer's interface with

  context-sensitive hypertext help

* Very powerful underlying menu definition language bordering on

  major batch language enhancement gives experts maximum

  flexibility and control... plus interactive user-defined dialog

  boxes

* Conflict-free (i.e. not TSR, terminate and stay resident)

  program design assuring full compatibility and simplified

  maintenance

* Requires very little hard disk space and RAM to be installed

* Available in LAN, developer's distributed run-time, and

  standard single-user editions

* 30-day money-back guarantee

PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

Standard Edition          $ 49.95

LAN Edition               $299.95

Developer's RunTime       $299.95

Add. $4.50 S&H USA and Canada, $10.50 International

Registered product comes in color box with commercial-grade documentation and materials.

YAMS?

Yes, that might be your first instinct (Yet another menu shell?)... but don't let that stop you from evaluating PullDown. PullDown is sold through VARs the world over, and is widely hailed by all who have registered it. Over 5,000 registered copies are in use, and that success is a result of only word-of-mouth advertising!

PullDown provides the expert with maximum control and excellent flexibility, and it is the only menu shell that has both a novice and expert level menu definition editing system. In short, the novice or intermediate user will find that PullDown installs flawlessly and is easy to learn and maintain, while the expert "power user" or programmer will be delighted with the extended menu definition language available with the full-screen interactive debugging editor. Moreover, pristine color control and a host of user-defined options make PullDown one of the best menuing products in years.

What It Does Not Do...

PullDown is a focused product... that is it does not come with a so-called "DOS Shell" for maintaining files and/or directories. What PullDown does is menuing, and when you see it you may well agree that in that respect the product has few peers.

REQUIREMENTS

* IBM PC or solid 100% compatible with a monitor

* Hard disk with one megabyte (1,024K) of free hard space

* 310K free RAM for base system, 400K for menu editors

* One 5.25" drive (any type) or one 1.44MB 3.5" drive

  for installation

THE MICRODYNAMICS CUSTOMER SERVICE FOCUS

Your satisfaction with our software products is our number one priority. So, we will:

* Welcome any enhancement request you may have, and implement

  it in a custom version if you so desire

* Permit electronic downloading of the latest version of all

  forms of our products, without restriction or fee

* Make all of our future versions automatically upgradable

* Provide updates and upgrades at a low price, with good

  documentation about feature and function changes

* Respond positively to every one of your complaints and

  compliments because the customer is always right

* Correct any bonified internal software bugs less than 14 days

  from the date of confirmation and make that corrected version

  available to you at no charge anywhere in the world

* Give you your money back if you are not satisfied with our

  product(s) through our thirty day "one comment requested"

  return policy

MicroDyynamics Development

1445 Mensch Lane, Gilbertsville, PA 19525

Fax/Direct: 215-367-1891; CIS: 72010,2546


Timberline Construction Gold for Windows & OS/2
Timberline Announces Windows-Based Accounting Software

BEAVERTON, Ore. April 6, 1993 -- New windows-based software integrates construction accounting and management tasks. Timberline Software announces the release of Construction Gold for Microsoft Windows and OS/2.

By taking advantage of Graphical User Interface technology, Timberline has geared Construction Gold to the non-technical user. The program enables contractors to work in several menu options at the same time. For example, while an invoice is being entered into accounts payable, a user can open another window to check an item on a subcontract without closing the invoice entry widow. Icons and menus lead users through a number of accounting functions including: accounts payable, job costs, general ledger and payroll.

User-defined inquiry screens provide flexible information management that can access data from the entire system versus a single application. Formulas can be defined by the user, and text notes inserted and flagged next to associated data. Gold also enables contractors to design custom reports that access data from any Timberline application.

Construction Gold runs on IBM-compatible hardware. Contractors wanting more product information can contact Timberline at 800/628-6583

Timberline Software Corporation. is an international supplier of estimating and accounting software for the construction, property management, architecture and engineering industries. Founded in 1971, the company has installed more than 15,000 systems worldwide.

Timberline Software, PO Box 728, Beaverton, OR 97075

(503) 644-8155


Newsletter for Computer Assisted Construction
A Newsletter for Computer Assisted Construction

The "Swiss Army Knife" of Construction Office Tools

OK, you've accepted computers as a construction tool. They're cheap and fast and colorful. They're "friendly" and run Microsoft Windows. So you should be able to jump right in and realize all those "productivity gains". Right? Well... A computer may be the "Swiss Army Knife" of office tools, but like any tool, it needs the proper owner's manual.

Window On Construction is a newsletter devoted to helping you find and use the computer hardware and software developed specifically for design/construction. Every 20 page issue is filled with case studies, in-depth software reviews, how-to articles and news on the latest releases.

"You Don't Need a $70/hr Consultant to Operate a SkilSaw"

A tool should be simple to use or you won't use it. Our writers are other builders and designers so you'll get real-world advice, written in your language. There are hundreds of software and hardware options available, which do you pick? To help you choose, Window On Construction contains concise, simple to understand information, sifted from all the journals and trade sources.

Office to Job Site Communications

Computers are vital both in the office and in the field. Even in the small construction office computers are being connected together. These "networks" integrate computers to FAX Modems, Data Modems, Pagers, and even Cellular Pen Computers. Window On Construction tracks all the trends and directions in computer assisted construction.

Computer "Horror Stories"

You're not alone if you have a computer horror story. Almost everyone learns at least one expensive lesson as they integrate computers into their business. That's why you need Window On Construction. If this newsletter keeps you from buying just one inappropriate computer program, you've saved enough money to pay for 3 years of the newsletter!

Who Are We & What Do We Know About Windows & Construction?

All articles in Window On Construction are contributed by our readers, experienced Windows users in the trades. You'll also find a couple of regular columnists you may already know.

Chief Editor, Craig Savage, Owner of Savage Construction in Carpinteria CA, is a builder, writer, and construction computer consultant. His column "State of the Art Contractor" appears in Journal of Light Construction. His book, Trim Carpentry Techniques, is published by Taunton Press, and he is currently working on two books, "Excel in Construction" and "Construction Forms on Paper and Disk"

Architectural Editor Frank Mascia, AIA, CDG Architects in Tucson, AZ. is another computer guru, who has been expounding the virtues of Plain and Simple computer solutions since 1989. He provides consulting services for Architects and speaks frequently at seminars and conferences nationwide

Accounting & Business Editor, Karen Jones, CIC Consulting, is a computer consultant specializing in construction accounting. She holds an MBA and is also a General Contractor. Currently working on the book Construction Forms on Paper and Disk

Free with Subscription: Directory of Construction Applications for Windows & Estimating Spreadsheet Templates

Fine, you say, this all sounds great, but I can't wait to read a year of WOC before I decide on an accounting package. . . I need it today! We understand, so with your paid subscription we'll send you a free disk with an indexed list of all the construction software that runs in the Windows operating system. On the same disk you'll get an estimating template, a progress billing template and a costbook tool to use with the Excel spreadsheet. (A $55 retail value)

What Will All This Cost?

A one-year subscription to Window On Construction, which includes a free disk with the Construction Application Index and Excel template tools, is just $75 per year. And we're so sure you'll find WOC to be a valuable resource, we guarantee it. If for any reason, you're not satisfied, just write us for a refund - the disk is yours to keep.

To Order...your subscription to Window On Construction call us at 805/684-0290 (we accept Visa and Master card) or mail your payment of $75 to us today. We'll rush your first issue and your free software disk. Mail to: Window On Construction, 5455 Dariesa St. Carpinteria CA 93013


Personal MACLAN Connect for Windows
MIRAMAR ANNOUNCES MACINTOSH CLIENT SUPPORT & PEER FUNCTIONALITY FOR MICROSOFT WINDOWS

Personal MACLAN Connect for Windows Runs on All IBM PCs; Acts as Server for Macintosh Applications Without Leaving Windows

March 31, 1993; SANTA BARBARA, CA -- Miramar Systems, Inc., a leading publisher of Macintosh-to-PC connectivity software, today introduced Personal MACLAN Connect for Windows, the first network operating system (NOS) to allow Macs and Windows PCs to exchange data in a peer environment on either Ethernet, AppleTalk and TokenRing network hardware.

Personal MACLAN allows Macintosh and Windows users to dynamically exchange data across platforms, send E-mail, as well as print and share local disk storage on a peer level, said Neal Rabin, Miramar president. Macintosh and Windows users view each other's files in their own familiar data format (i.e., Mac files are shortened to appear as 11-character DOS names; Windows files appear on the Mac desktop as separate icons.)

"We've extended the benefits of Macintosh System 7 personal file sharing directly to the PC desktop," noted Rabin. "Moving information between the Apple Macintosh and Windows on an IBM PC is now as transparent as working off your own local hard drive." Windows users control exactly where, when and which Macintosh users can access their PC's. Personal MACLAN runs as a Windows application, using limited system resources, making each PC's hard disks, floppy drives, CD-ROM's, etc., dynamically available to the Macintosh desktop.

Macintosh users rely on the standard AppleShare Chooser interface (similar in some aspects to Windows Program Manager) to access Personal MACLAN. In this manner, Mac users are shielded from unfamiliar DOS/Windows naming conventions, said Rabin. Personal MACLAN also lets Mac users open PC files and launch the corresponding application. For example, Microsoft Excel PC file formats are fully compatible with the Mac version of Excel. Personal MACLAN lets users define the XLS extension to appear on the Mac with the Excel icon. Double-clicking on the icon opens the data file, launches Excel on the Mac, and then translates the file via Excel.

Mac users can also access any locally connected or network printer available on any Windows PC. Personal MACLAN works as a printer server on the PC, directing Macintosh print jobs to shared printers, including HP PaintJet, LaserWriter or HP LaserJet with a Post Script option. Third parties, such as GDT, offer AppleTalk print driver software that supports many popular non-PostScript print devices.

"Personal MACLAN Connect represents the first non-proprietary network software to provide affordable, transparent connectivity between the Mac and Windows, whether or not there is a PC LAN in place," stressed Rabin. "Personal MACLAN also adds peer services to Macintosh and PC clients, complementing any existing Macintosh services, such as Netware NLM or Farallon Timbuktu." Supported LAN environments on the PC include Microsoft Windows for Workgroups, Microsoft LAN Manager, Banyan Vines, Novell Netware, IBM OS/2 LAN Server, Hayes LANStep and Artisoft LANtastic.

Personal MACLAN runs on Intel 386 and 486 PCs with a network interface card (NIC). It is compatible with Windows 3.1 and above, as well as fully compliant with AppleTalk Phase II and the AppleTalk Filing Protocol (AFP). It can be used with any configuration of Macintosh and PC computers on a network. Pricing is set at $199 for a single PC user, $999 for a ten-PC user license, and $1999 for a 30-user license.

Founded in 1987, Miramar Systems is a leading provider of Macintosh-to-PC networking software. Miramar has established an industry wide reputation for providing reliable, cost-effective solutions for multi-platform microcomputer network integration. The company's mission is to develop, market and support network products that seamlessly integrate Apple Macintosh computers into IBM PC environments.

Miramar Systems

201 N. Salsipuedes, Suite 204, Santa Barbara, CA 93103

805.966.2432;   FAX 805.965.1824


QuickMail Seeding Program - Connect Now!
CE Offers Unique QuickMail Seeding Program: CONNECT NOW!

West Des Moines, IA, March 29, 1993 - CE SOFTWARE HOLDINGS, INC. (NASDAQ/NMS Symbol: CESH) today announced the North American release of QuickMail CONNECT NOW. In the tradition of the QuicKeys Test Drive, the CONNECT NOW program delivers a revolutionary marketing tool to the reseller channel. Resellers everywhere can provide a free five-user copy of the new QuickMail 2.6 on every LAN with which they make contact.

Every local area network deserves QuickMail! Customers receive all of the benefits of the new QuickMail, including the new Windows mail client, easy administration features and the new, free server. Resellers benefit by introducing QuickMail 2.6 at no cost to themselves or their prospects. Finally, resellers gain a fantastic introduction to added hardware and services sales by offering QuickMail as a free communication tool in the exploding messaging market.

"We want to introduce the new QuickMail 2.6 to every Local Area Network in the world," said Ford Goodman, Executive Vice President of the company. "We will follow this announcement with international availability as translations are completed. We are so confident in the robust feature set and ease-of-use of QuickMail that we are prepared to show every potential E-mail customer worldwide that CE is the technology leader. We are prepared to put our money where our mouths are."

CE's approach to seeding products has met with rave reviews. The QuicKeys Test Drive and QuickMail CONNECT NOW programs do much more than seed software. The programs provide our channel partners with a free method to add value for customers. Resellers introduce their services and products with ease. CE' s concept is designed to accomplish one revolutionary marketing goal: to ensure that the resellers who introduce our technology to their customers will be the ones to profit from it--every time!

CE Software has found that progressively fewer resellers can give mind share to software products. "Most resellers must concentrate on selling hardware, services or software volume, not individual software products," said Goodman. "QuickMail CONNECT NOW is a revolutionary way to provide resellers with the opportunity to introduce their most valuable product: their ability to service their customers' requirements."

"QuickMail 2.6, released on March 26, 1993, reflects our emphasis on total quality. We completely re-architected the mail transport and administration of our mail server," said Ned Horvath, CE's Messaging Team Director. QuickMail, with an installed base of almost one million users worldwide, has always been known as the industry's leading Macintosh E-mail package. Customers, resellers and reviewers cite the outstanding user interface as the primary reason for QuickMail's success. QuickMail 2.6 extends this award-winning interface to all Intel-based users by including the new QuickMail Windows client and through the upgrades of the DOS and Macintosh clients. Now everyone, regardless of what PC type they use, may take advantage of the interface consistently reviewed as the finest, most intuitive ever designed for any mail client platform.

QuickMail CONNECT NOW is a special 5 User LAN Pak of QuickMail. The QuickMail CONNECT NOW Action Pak is delivered to resellers with everything they need so they can start spreading the word. The Action Pak includes server software; client software for DOS, Windows, & Macintosh; Quick Reference guides; Administrator manual; User manuals; Easy Install instructions; ad slicks, logos and more!

CONNECT NOW customers may purchase additional QuickMail 2.6 users and keep the five free users on their network forever.

Resellers may participate in the CONNECT NOW program by contacting CE Software, Inc. at 515-224-1995.

Requirements and Pricing

Macintosh Systems 6.0.5, 7, and above are supported, as well as DOS 3.1 and above and Windows 3.x. Networks that are supported include AppleTalk, Novell Netware, Banyan, and Microsoft. QuickConference is only available on AppleTalk networks.

QuickMail 2.6 is available immediately through resellers and domestic distribution channels. International versions will be available later this spring. International users should contact their local distributors for pricing and availability. CE will continue to bundle a five-pack of ON Technology's award-winning group scheduling package, Meeting Maker, in each multi-user shelf package of QuickMail. QuickMail 2.6 retails for $649 for a 10 User Pak.

For additional information, contact CE Software, Inc., 1801 Industrial Circle, P.O. Box 65580, West Des Moines, IA 50265, 515-224-1995.

CE Software is the leading Macintosh electronic mail supplier and a rapidly expanding developer of system-enhancing software and network productivity tools for the Macintosh and Windows/DOS markets. CE Software' s major products include QuickMail (with almost one million users worldwide), QuicKeys (the award-winning macro program for Macintosh), ProKey (a scripting product for the Windows and DOS environments), DiskTop (a Finder/Lanucher for the Windows and Macintosh environments) and CalendarMaker (a popular calendar publishing application for both Macintosh and Windows platforms).


The System 7 Book from Ventana Press
VENTANA'S CLASSIC GUIDE TO SYSTEM 7 LEADS USERS INTO 7.1

CHAPEL HILL, NC--In 1991, The System 7 Book by Craig Danuloff was snapped up in record numbers by Macintosh users hungry for help with Apple's updated operating system. Still the reference book of choice for users moving into System 7 and beyond, The System 7 Book has just been published in a new Second Edition, updated to include information on 7.1 as well as major extensions and utilities.

"INITS, control panels and extensions have been an important part of the Macintosh system software for years," explains Danuloff. "But only since System 7 has Apple itself delivered so many new features in the form of extensions." Further pointing out the abundance of third-party contributions to this evolution of the operating system, he characterizes the new material in his book as "literally picking up where System 7 leaves off." New chapters offer a look at QuickTime along with descriptions, advice and insiders' tips on dozens of hot new utilities.

A wealth of technical information couched in Danuloff's unbeatable style, The System 7 Book looks at all System 7 and 7.1 commands and features, including:

* working with fonts in 7.1, using the new Fonts Folder and

  weighing the differences between TrueType, bitmapped and

  PostScript fonts.

* upgrades of system software elements, including Publish

  and Subscribe.

* taking advantage of new Finder enhancements.

* Apple's new ColorSync Extension for desktop color calibration

  and synchronization.

* tips and shortcuts for memory management, file-sharing and

  networking, multitasking and more.

An appendix walks readers through the installation process.

Craig Danuloff has worked on the Macintosh since its release and has been a certified Apple developer since 1986. Danuloff has coauthored a number of other Macintosh-related books, including The PageMaker Companion--Macintosh and PC Editions (1989, Dow-Jones Irwin) and Encyclopedia Macintosh (1989, Sybex).

The System 7 Book is softcover, 488 pages, illustrated. Suggested retail price: $24.95. ISB N: 1-56604-027-2.

Ventana Press publishes books and other materials that help computer users become more productive, including Voodoo Mac, The Mac Shareware 500, The Official America Online Membership Kit & Tour Guide, MacArcade and Looking Good in Print. All titles are available in bookstores and through Ventana Press, P.O. Box 2468, Chapel Hill, NC 27515, 919/942-0220; FAX, 919/942-1140


ASG Estimator, CAD-estimating System
ASG UNVEILS REVOLUTIONARY CAD-COST ESTIMATING LINK

ASG Estimator integrates the CAD drawing process with Timberline Precision estimating technology and R.S. Means pricing.

SAUSALITO, CA.--April 6, 1993. ASG, the leading developer of integrated software applications for architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers who use AutoCAD, has introduced ASG Estimator, a new CAD-estimating system designed for A/E professionals. This product--using R.S. Means pricing and Timberline Software CAD integration technology--is about to ship and will be featured at A/E/C Systems '93 in ASG booth #795.

ASG Estimator was developed by Timberline and licensed to ASG especially for distribution to the AEC market. It is a complete, flexible, and easy-to-use estimating software package featuring programs and data that automatically calculate construction estimates based upon drawings created with AutoCAD and ASG application software. The key components in this CAD-to-estimate integration are ASG's Data Link program, found in ASG Core, version 6.0; Timberline's Precision CAD Integrator; and a 2,700-item conceptual database featuring RS. Means Assemblies pricing. Working together in ASG Estimator, these products allow architects and engineers to make "quick" estimates. They can design and make changes in ASG CAD software and quickly see the cost effect on project estimates.

This automated CAD-estimating technology gives users greater ability to evaluate design/cost alternatives. It also produces integration of the design/build cycle, easier customization of plans, and more realistic budgets.

The Importance of the R.S. Means Connection

ASG and Timberline's March, 1993 agreement with R.S. Means greatly strengthened the significance of ASG Estimator's new technology to the design and construction industry. R.S. Means is the nation's leading construction cost authority, serving over 250,000 customers each year. The company publishes scores of cost data references, construction information books, and electronic databases. Means representatives also conduct seminars year-round on construction and cost estimating, remodeling, ADA compliance, project management, and other topics.

The companies' agreement also allows ASG to market as an upgrade the entire 17,000-item R.S. Means Assemblies Cost Database. The yearly upgrades to this package will be available from R.S. Means.

Said ASG president, Dennis Neeley, "Our direct relationship with Timberline already ensured that ASG Estimator's power would be unmatched in the marketplace. When our first choice for the cost data component of this estimating system, RS. Means, agreed to come on board, the product was strengthened even further. What we have here is new cost estimating technology, unprecedented in the advances it brings to the design and construction industry."

Data Link Adds Intelligence to the CAD-Estimating Link

The key to ASG Estimator's link with the CAD drawing is the dynamic nature of its drawing interface, Data Link. Using Data Link within the drawing session, the user assigns intelligent "work packages" to objects in the drawing. Then, as changes are made in the design, the estimate is automatically updated to reflect the modifications. For example, if a wall is stretched, ASG Estimator will recalculate the quantity and dimensions of the wall, as well as regenerate the appropriate length of floor joist for the room. All labor and material necessary to make the modification will also be recalculated.

About the Companies

ASG is an original Autodesk Strategic Developer. The product line features 14 fully integrated architectural, structural, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, piping, P&ID, and civil engineering software applications for the personal computer. ASG's Vertex Division is the leading developer of electronic information and software for building product manufacturers.

Founded in 1971, Timberline Software Corporation is a leading international supplier of estimating software for the construction industry.

R.S. Means Company has collected and distributed construction cost data for over fifty years.

ASG, 4000 Bridgeway, Suite 309, Sausalito, CA 94965-1451

415-332-2123;  fax: 415-332-2146


Music Collector XTRA
Introducing !

Music Collector XTRA

I'd like to take this opportunity to introduce you to the latest release from Soft Key Systems, Music Collector XTRA.

After three years of developing programs such as Compact Disc Master, Compact Disc Master Xtra, Music Collector Master, Classical Music Master and scores of custom applications for private music collect we have taken the best of all of these programs and designed Music Collector XTRA.

You've seen our programs in 'Stereo Review', 'CD Review', and 'Goldmine' and we have combined all the features that gained us rave reviews into the newest and most comprehensive collector's program on the market today.

Whether you collect 45's, CD's, Classical Music, or rare investment recordings this is the program for you.

You have never tried a program as user-friendly as this one. You will be up and running in literally a matter of minutes. The on-line help and menu driven screens makes everyone an expert the first time they use the program.

A program like this can be used in hundreds of ways but let us show you a few ways this program will make your life easier.

Lost Track Dilemma.

You have several 'Greatist Hits' albums, compilation albums or maybe you DJ. You want to find a particular track but you can't remember the CD or LP its on. Simply call up the Tracks Table and Type the first few letters of the track. The table will instantly scroll matching the letters entered to the title starting with those letters. A second later you will have the Track in front of you with LP or CD Title next to it on the screen.

Insurance Woes.

You know your collection is worth thousands but you never sat down to figure out exactly how much you should insure it for. There are fields for both the price you paid and current value of each entry. When you need a list simply go to the My Number table press Ctrl P, seconds later you will have a printout of your collection with values and a total at the bottom.

Want Lists.

You know of several pieces you would like to have but undoubtedly you forget a title or two when you try to make a list. With Music Collector Xtra you can enter the Title, Label and Catalog no., or whatever information you have about a record or CD and mark the Want/Have field 'Want'. Then when you find a new dealer simply go to the Want table press Ctrl P and seconds later you have a sorted, legible list to put in the mail. When you acquire that long sought after selection just change the Want Field to 'Have', its already in your collection and now its off the want list.

Enough Room on the Tape?

You want to make a Tape from one or more CD's or LP's but your not sure how to split the songs between the two sides of the tape. Just use the Tape Calculator. Locate the tracks you want to include from an easy to use pop-up table, press enter and watch the total playing time add up. You can even print out the A and B side lists to take to the stereo and program your CD player or tape deck. No more dead space or abrupt endings to our favorite songs.

These are just some of the ways Music Collector XTRA can save you time and effort organizing and enjoying your music collection. 25 enterable fields per CD or LP and 7 more if you choose to enter individual tracks, lets you use Music Collector XTRA the way it best suits your needs. Enter as many or as few fields as you want, it's completely up to you. Customize the Pop-up tables to suit your brand of collecting.

If this isn't the easiest and most powerful collection program you have ever tried return it within 30 days for a complete refund less S&H.

And don't think you are on your own after your purchase. We are constantly including user suggestions in product updates to give you that new report or look-up table that will ensure we keep this program the best on the market today.

How much do we charge for a program with all these features? Just $34.95. Unbelievable for a bullet-proof program that's been tested on a worldwide user base for the last three years. Our philosophy is to keep the price low to build a larger user base. The more users we have, the more ideas and diversity we can include in the next release.

So don't struggle with your collection for another day. Send a Check or money order for $34.95 plus $5.00 S&H to: Soft Key Systems, 191 Bluestone Dr., Bethel Park Pa. 15102. Pennsylvania residents please add 6%.

For those still not convinced, send $5.00 for a working Demo that is only limited by the number of records you can enter.


Softcraft Ships ZIPPER Payroll v1.6
SHAREWARE COMPUTER PROGRAM PROVIDES SIMPLE PAYROLL SOLUTION FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

Everett, WA - March 1, 1993 - Softcraft, designer and developer of ZIPPER Payroll, announces shipment of version 1.6. Distribution is via the ASP (Association of Shareware Professionals) vendor mailing program, and is available from all ASP member shareware disk vendors and bulletin board systems.

ZIPPER Payroll provides an uncomplicated solution to the payroll responsibilities faced by small business owners. ZIPPER Payroll was designed so that the small business could easily process and maintain payroll records in-house, without having to hire accounting staff or retain outside payroll services. The menu driven user interface provides easy access to all payroll processing and reporting functions. State and federal tax tables com pre-installed. An optional export to Quicken, a popular checkbook program used by many small businesses, is included.

Ed Protas, creator of ZIPPER Payroll, stated, "Any business person knows how tedious and time consuming payroll processing can be. ZIPPER Payroll was designed from the ground up for the small business. While there are several payroll programs on the market, none take an uncomplicated approach. The last thing a small business owner needs is to master another complex computer application while learning all the intricacies required to accurately process payroll. The primary goal was to create an application that could be used almost immediately, even by individuals without accounting, payroll, or computer experience."

"ZIPPER Payroll was also designed to utilize the existing hardware found in most small businesses," he continued. "While much of today's new software focuses on the Microsoft Windows environment, many small businesses, particularly in todays economy, do not feel compelled to make the hardware investment necessary to run these programs efficiently. ZIPPER Payroll runs on any PC/MS-DOS based Personal Computer with a hard disk drive and 640K of RAM."

Softcraft distributes and markets ZIPPER Payroll using Shareware. This method allows the users to fully evaluate software before it is purchased. Protas stated, "A prospective user obtains a fully functional copy of ZIPPER Payroll from a friend, a shareware disk vendor, an electronic bulletin board, or by downloading from an online service like CompuServe or GEnie. At the most, their cost at this point is just a few dollars. Our software license allows an individual or organization to use and evaluate our product for ninety days. At that point, if they intend to continue to use the software they are obligated to pay the registration fee. User registration, when we actually get paid, is based on the honor system. When you think of it, it's the ultimate money back guarantee - without even having to return the product. The shareware copy even includes a complete, on disk User's Manual."

"The shareware approach allows us to keep the price of our software within the means of the small business. Shareware authors don't spend a lot of advertising. We allow products to market themselves through reviews and word of mouth, and pass the saving back to our users."

ZIPPER Payroll sells for $62.00, plus $5.00 for shipping and handling. The price, known as the "registration fee" in the shareware industry, includes one year of technical support, and the tax tables for the following year. Tax table updates are automatically sent to all registered users. Continuing support and updates are available for a low annual fee.

"ZIPPER Payroll provides a cost effective and easy to use solution. The more tasks business people can do for themselves, the lower their operating costs will be. Ultimately, this could be the difference between success and failure."

Softcraft, founded in 1990, designs and develops information and management systems for small businesses. ZIPPER Payroll, version 1.0 was released in January 1992, and is currently being used by small businesses throughout the country.

ZIPPER Payroll can be ordered directly from Softcraft, 3612 122nd Place SE, Everett, WA 98208;  206-728-8427. Alternately, fully functional evaluation copies may be obtained from ASP approved vendors. Contact the Association of Shareware Professionals at 545 Grover Rd, Muskegon, MI 49442-9427; 616-788-5131 for a list of approved shareware vendors.


New SpreadBase Business Analysis Tool Release
OBJECTIVE SOFTWARE ANNOUNCES NEW RELEASE OF SPREADBASE

First Business Analysis Tool For Client/Server Computing Comes To The Desktop

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, APRIL 5, 1993 -- Objective Software, Inc. today announced a new release of SpreadBase. SpreadBase is the first business data analysis tool for client/server computing, enabling flexible analysis of structured data by utilizing Category-Based Modeling.

Category-based modeling allows users to deal with higher-level groups of information called "categories," which in turn control the behavior of individual data elements. SpreadBase users are therefore able to focus on high-level analysis, and are free from focusing on the management of row/column details that's required when using a spreadsheet. Key Features

Key features of the new release of SpreadBase include:

* direct relational database access via Brio Technology's

  DataPrism;

* capacity more than tripled -- from 4,000 record range

  to 12,000+;

* support of Apple's Data Access Manager, providing future

  compatibility and support for AppleScript.

SpreadBase and the Client/Server Environment

As client/server environments become more and more widespread, users are accessing corporate data on relational database servers in order to support decision making. That information is organized in records as structured data. SpreadBase lets the user work with those records in a highly flexible and productive way that traditional or "multi-dimensional" spreadsheets cannot.

"Business data analysis in client/server computing requires access to increasing quantities of data on the host database -- access that must retain the relational structure of the data and permit the user to work with it intelligently on the desktop," explained Richard Melmon, CEO of Objective Software. "SpreadBase is uniquely architected to address this successfully."

Intelligent Data Access

In addition, SpreadBase permits broader data access. SpreadBase now accesses DataPrism, allowing transfer of data from server database management systems as Structured Data Objects. These Objects pass not just data values, but field names and types as well. By maintaining the data's structure, it can be easily merged with existing models. Importing to a spreadsheet involves stripping away the imported data's structure, severing the intelligent data connection between server and client.

Availability

The new release of SpreadBase, version 1.1, will ship in April, 1993. SpreadBase for Windows is currently in development and will debut in late 1993.

Objective Software

Objective Software was founded in 1988 to deliver advanced business data analysis tools for client/server computing. Objective Software's SpreadBase is the first client/server business data analysis tool that provides flexible analysis of relational data, offering significant productivity gains to business users. SpreadBase is based on a new software technology, Category-Based Modeling, which allows users to create and maintain dynamic data models -- models that are defined and manipulated at the highest level, by category.

ObjectiveSoftware, 200 Chesapeake Dr, Redwood City, CA 94063

415-306-7400;  415-306-7404


Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective Volume III
SHERLOCK HOLMES CONSULTING DETECTIVE VOLUME III PITS USERS AGAINST SLEUTH IN THREE NEW INTERACTIVE MOVIES

CD-ROM Users Try to Beat Holmes and Watson to Solutions in "The Solicitous Solicitor,"  "The Banker's Final Debt,"  and "The Thames Murders"

WHEELING, IL--March 26, 1993--ICOM Simulations announced today a new volume of interactive movie mysteries in its Sherlock Holmes, Consulting Detective CD-ROM series. Featuring enhanced color quality, Volume III presents the Baker Street detective in three new cases, "The Solicitous Solicitor," "The Banker's Final Debt," and "The Thames Murders." The original Sherlock, released in CD-ROM versions for six platforms, remains the all-time best selling interactive video game on CD-ROM, while Sherlock 11 sales continue to accumulate. The Sherlock series is exclusively distributed in North America by Electronic Arts under its Affiliated Label program.

Due for nationwide release next month, Sherlock Holmes, Consulting Detective Volume III includes more than one hour of color motion video on a single CD-ROM and will be available initially on the Macintosh and DOS platforms at the suggested retail price of $69.95.

"As the breakthrough product in this new genre called 'interactive movies,' Sherlock Holmes, Consulting Detective continues to introduce a completely new generation of Sherlock Holmes fans to the fascination and intrigue of this timeless literary classic," said ICOM President Dennis Defensor. "And, because it is authorized by the estate of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, fans are guaranteed a genuine murder mystery experience."

"Presently, Sherlock is just one example in our vision to explore and expand the horizons of the interactive experience. The near future will disclose even more innovative genres."

Volume III features three new mysteries: The Solicitous Solicitor, The Banker's Final Debt, and The Thames Murders.

Charming and calculating. An unscrupulous Casanova turned corpse. It is said that his death was due to a poor heart condition. It is suspected that he was poisoned. Who did it, and how?

It just doesn't add up. the man was hard-working, unassuming and quiet. Now, quite dead. There seems to be no surface motive for his murder. Yet, someone wanted him silenced. Why?

Thamesis. "Broad River." The River Thames. Today, it tallies five bodies in its waves. Who dares to stain its waters? Are the deaths the sinister workings of a serial killer, or simply isolated acts of murder?

ICOM Simulations, Inc., continues to explore and expand interactive possibilities as it offers a wide range of software products for Windows 3.x, Apple Macintosh and other platforms. These include: Sherlock Holmes, Consulting Detective an advanced multimedia CD ROM title; Rightpaint, a paint program; On Cue II and Squeegee, file and applications managers; and TMON Professional, a programming tool for the Macintosh. ICOM also develops advanced interactive titles for a number of other publishers and computer/game platforms.

ICOM Simulations, 648 S. Wheeling Rd, Wheeling, IL 60090

708-520-4440;  fax: 708-459-3418


chemEXHIBIT for Windows  Chemical Desktop Pub.
MOLECULAR ARTS CORPORATION RELEASES DESKTOP PUBLISHING SOFTWARE FOR CHEMICAL RESEARCHERS

Anaheim, California, March 22, 1993 -- Molecular Arts Corporation (MAC), announced today the commercial availability of a new version of its popular Windows-based software, chemEXHIBIT for Windows, a desk-top publishing tool for scientists in chemical research. This new release (Version 2.0) of chemEXHIBIT offers sophisticated documentation, illustration, and presentation capabilities designed specifically for chemical research scientists. With chemEXHIBIT chemists can easily display, manipulate, and render 3D molecular structures, create 2D chemical diagrams, create publication-quality graphic illustrations, import graphic images from 3rd-party applications, document the results of their research, and produce professional-quality presentation materials.

Vice-President of Marketing for Molecular Arts Corporation, Laura Voyles says of the new release, "chemEXHIBIT is an easy-to-use tool that provides scientists tremendous capabilities for documenting and communicating their chemical research activities. Chemists struggle daily with representing their research (on 3D molecules) in 2D formats." She went on to say, "What makes chemEXHIBIT so exciting is that it combines all the necessary 2D documentation and presentation tools with 3D structure visualization and 2D chemical diagramming tools in an affordable desktop publishing package. With chemEXHIBIT, scientists can document their work and present it to their peers quickly and easily."

Graphical User Interface

By utilizing the popular Microsoft Windows graphical user interface, chemEXHIBIT takes full advantage of this intuitive working environment, making chemEXHIBIT easy to learn and use. Additionally, by integrating all the necessary documentation and presentation tools under a single user interface, chemEXHIBIT saves scientists time and money.

PRODUCT FEATURES

Included in chemEXHIBIT is a full suite of 2D diagram drawing tools, CHEMGRAM, for creating 2D pictographs of chemical structures. CHEMGRAM comes with 39 diagram drawing tools for drawing bonds, rings, orbitals, and atom labels; "Snap To" drawing options; adjustable position, angle, and bond length constraints; automatic superscripts and subscripts in labels, and many other features making it an unparalleled package for creating diagrams.

Users may also read in 3D structure models from third-party databases or modeling programs. The VISAGE-3D rendering tools enable chemists to create exactly the look they need to illustrate important research issues. The VISAGE-3D toolset includes mixable rendering styles (wire frame, ball-n-stick, space fill, and cylinder) with support for depth cueing, perspective, shading, and stereo images. When used with the SELECT-3D substructure selection tools, chemists can rapidly modify their visuals to suit their documentation needs.

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

Included in chemEXHIBIT are a full complement of page layout tools including: optional on-screen page and margin outlines, a full-featured text processor, formula and symbol libraries, a full compliment of graphic drawing tools, and the ZOOMIN magnifying glass tool for highlighting key aspects of 3D structures.

Users also have access to quality hardcopy output provided via support for Hewlett Packard LaserJet 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 chemEXHIBIT (v2.0) is concurrent with this announcement. A single-user industrial license is available for $595. 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, 1532 East Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92805

714-634-8100;  fax: 714-634-1999


US Robotics Acquirees France's P.N.B. s.a.
U.S. ROBOTICS ACQUIRES FRANCE'S P.N.B., s.a.

SKOKIE, Ill., -- March 25, 1993 -- U.S. Robotics, Inc., (NASDAQ:USRX) today announced that it has acquired 100 percent of the common stock of P.N.B., s.a. Based in Suresnes, France, P.N.B. is best known as a designer and manufacturer of data communications products for IBM-compatible personal computers and work stations and is a leading international supplier of products for portable computers.

"The acquisition of P.N.B. significantly expands our presence in the French market and enhances our already strong position throughout Europe," said Casey Cowell, U.S. Robotics chairman, president and C.E.O. "With the P.N.B. acquisition, we now have a greatly expanded customer base, which is essential in cultivating new business ventures in France in particular and Europe in general," he added.

"In aligning with U.S. Robotics, we have greatly increased financial, technical, marketing and manufacturing resources to expand our business in France and internationally," said Isabelle Pesquie Nikitine, P.N.B. chairman.

Founded in 1985 by Isabelle Pesquie Nikitine and Nicolas Bocquet, P.N.B. will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Skokie, Ill.-based U.S. Robotics. Ms. Nikitine remains with the company as chairman, and Mr. Bocquet will be director of research and development.

"The addition of P.N.B. reinforces our decision to make France the center of our European operations," said John McCartney, U.S. Robotics executive vice president, international operations. "With P.N.B. headquartered near Paris and U.S. Robotics s.a., in Lille, we feel that we have accomplished that goal."

All three European subsidiaries, U.S. Robotics, Ltd. (U.K.), U.S. Robotics, s.a. and now P.N.B., s.a., report to Mr. McCartney, who is headquartered in Paris. The combined organizations will allow U.S. Robotics to accelerate its already rapid growth in the European data communications market, which has given the company a leading position in high-speed, dial-up communications product sales throughout the Continent.

U.S. Robotics has a history of seeking alliances with local partners. In 1989 the company acquired Miracom Technology in the United Kingdom, which today has the largest highspeed dial-up modem market share in that country.

With its 1991 acquisition of Touchbase Systems, U.S. Robotics established a strong base of operations in Lille, France supporting all European sales, marketing and technical support efforts. The P.N.B. acquisition fortifies U.S. Robotics sales and marketing operations in France and Europe and positions the company as the premier supplier of data communications products on the Continent.

The P.N.B. acquisition gives U.S. Robotics a strong European research and development team. "The P.N.B. acquisition is a marriage of strengths," said U.S. Robotics' Cowell. "We have continually moved USR from its roots in high-speed analog communications to full-scale data communications, spanning desktop to data center. With P.N.B., we build our ISDN and PCMCIA offerings, thus confirming our commitment as the world's data communications leader."

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 U.S. Robotics, 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

800-DIAL-USR;  708-982-5010


GENERIC COBOL COOK BOOK

Mo Budlong, author of a popular series of "how to" books has completed his latest entitled "The Cobol Cook Book".

The "Cook Book" series are intended to address common programming problems, and provide tips and tricks on how to solve them. There are examples illustrated with listings and code as well as canned routines you can include in your own programs.

"The Cobol Cook Book" will provide a wealth of useful information for coding in Cobol on any machine, on topics which include sorting arrays, bubble sorts, reverse date keys, black boxes, logical files, debugging, string manipulation, case conversion, read previous, printing and delayed printing tricks.

Mo Budlong is writing "Moving from Cobol to C", scheduled for release in July by Prentice Hall.

"The Cobol Cook Book" is available for $69.95 + postage from King Computer Services, Inc., 10350 Samoa Avenue, Tujunga, CA 91042. (818) 951-5240.


Over-LAZ Electronic Letterheads/Rubber Stamps
Over-LAZ

Electronic Letterheads and Rubber Stamps

Version 3.0

(Tiverton, Ontario) Herne Data Systems is pleased to announce the release of Over-LAZ version 3.0. Over-LAZ is a collection of over 150 image overlay files for use with WordPerfect (5.0 or later), WordStar, PC-Write, dBase (and other applications) and an HP LaserJet or PostScript compatible printer. The overlays are automatically added to the document by the word processing or database application when it is printed. The collection includes general office forms (such as 'inter-office memo', 'notice of meeting', etc.) in several different styles, as well as rubber stamp type overlays (such as 'DRAFT', 'confidential', etc.) and page frames and borders.

Over LAZ are printer command files that are used within a document or database report to give routine office correspondence a professional look without the need for expensive add on fonts. Versions are available for LaserJet (II, IIP, III, IIIP, 4) or compatible printers as well as for PostScript printers. Over-LAZ v3 provides more than 50 new overlay files, including borders for legal sized pages; support for WordStar, PC-Write, and dBase; an easy to use menu macro for WordPerfect 5.x users; and expanded documentation.

The price for single user registration of the entire collection remains unchanged at $25 (US) or $29 (CDN) plus $2 postage and handling. Unlimited user site licenses are available for $125 (US), $135 (CDN) for the entire collection.

Over-LAZ can also be used to automatically print personal and corporate letterheads and envelopes. All registered users are entitled to a FREE letterhead overlay with registration. Additional personalized Over-LAZ can be created for only $15 (US), $17 (CDN) plus $2 postage and handling. With an Over-LAZ electronic letterhead, you need never buy expensive printed letterhead stock again! A fresh letterhead is produced automatically each time you print a letter. Over-LAZ is the original 'rubber stamp' add-on for word processing programs. Don't be fooled by higher priced imitations.

Herne Data Systems Ltd., PO Box 250, Tiverton, ON CANADA NOG 2T0

Voice or FAX (519) 366-2732


Micromechanical Combined Stress Analysis
MICSTRAN - MICROMECHANICAL COMBINED STRESS ANALYSIS

The Micromechanical Combined Stress Analysis (MICSTRAN) code from NASA Langley Research Center provides the materials engineer with a user-friendly, personal computer based tool to calculate overall composite properties given the constituent fiber and matrix properties. MICSTRAN can calculate internal stresses within a composite ply under combined thermomechanical loading. It assumes that the fibers have a circular cross-section and are arranged either in a repeating square or diamond array pattern within a ply. It uses a classical elasticity solution technique that has been demonstrated to calculate accurate stress results.

Input to MICSTRAN consists of transversely isotropic fiber properties and isotropic matrix properties such as moduli, Poisson's ratios, coefficients of thermal expansion, and volume fraction. Loading input consists of a temperature change and ply stresses. All six stress components can be given to analyze a complete 3D stress state in a ply. Output consists of overall thermoelastic constants and stresses. Stress output can be requested along the fiber-matrix interface, the model boundaries, circular arcs, or at user-specified points located anywhere in the model.

MICSTRAN, inventory number LAR-15005, is written in FORTRAN 77 for IBM PC series and compatible computers running MS-DOS. This program is designed to run on Microsoft WINDOWS 3.0 or later and contains calls to the Microsoft QuickWin libraries that are available with Microsoft FORTRAN v5.1. A sample executable is included on the distribution media. It requires 2.5Mb of RAM for execution. An electronic copy of the User Manual is included on the distribution media in Microsoft WORD for WINDOWS format. Hard copy documentation consists of the User Manual plus a 33-page theory manual, NASA Technical Memorandum 107575. Program $300; documentation $19.

COSMIC, The University of Georgia

382 East Broad St, Athens, GA 30602-4272

(706) 542-3265;  Fax: (706) 542-4807


MacSigma Radar Data Collection Analysis Swr
MACSIGMA0 - A MACINTOSH TOOL FOR ANALYZING JPL AIRSAR, ERS-1, JERS-1, AND MAGELLAN MIDR DATA

MacSigma0 from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory is an interactive tool for the Macintosh which allows users to display and make computations from radar data collected by the following sensors: the JPL AIRSAR, ERS-1, JERS-1, and Magellan.

MacSigma0 provides four basic functions: synthesis of images (if necessary), statistical analysis of selected areas, analysis of corner reflectors as a calibration measure (if appropriate and possible), and informative mouse tracking. For instance, the JPL AIRSAR data can be used to synthesize a variety of images such as a total power image. The total power image displays the sum of the polarized and unpolarized components of the backscatter for each pixel. Other images which can be synthesized are HH, HV, W, RL, RR, HHW*, HHHV*, HV W*, HHW* phase and correlation coefficient images. For the complex and phase images, phase is displayed using color and magnitude is displayed using intensity.

MacSigma0 can also be used to compute statistics from within a selected area or to analyze corner reflectors as a measure of the calibration for JPL AIRSAR, ERS-1, and JERS-1 data types. It computes a theoretical radar cross section and the actual radar cross section for a selected trihedral corner reflector. The theoretical cross section, measured cross section, their ratio in dBs, and other information are displayed to the user and can be saved into a text file.

MacSigma0, inventory number NPO-19060, is written in C-language for use on Macintosh series computers. The minimum configuration requirements for MacSigma0 are System 6.0, Finder 6.1, 1Mb of RAM, and at least a 4-bit color or grey-scale graphics display. MacSigma0 is also System 7 compatible. MacSigma0 will print statistics on any output device which supports QuickDraw, and it will print images on any device which supports QuickDraw or PostScript. This program is a copyrighted work with all copyright vested in NASA. Program $200; documentation $34.

COSMIC, The University of Georgia

382 East Broad St, Athens, GA 30602-4272

(706) 542-3265;  Fax: (706) 542-4807


Objective Software & Brio Technology Team Up
OBJECTIVE SOFTWARE AND BRIO TECHNOLOGY TEAM UP TO CLOSELY INTEGRATE PRODUCTS

Innovative Technologies Provide Robust Client/Server Data Analysis Solution

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, APRIL 5, 1993 -- Objective Software, Inc. and Brio Technology today announced a joint technology agreement to provide close integration between SpreadBase, the first business analysis tool for client/server computing, and DataPrism, the leading data access query tool for the Apple Macintosh.

Under the terms of the agreement, the two companies will codevelop complementary data access and data analysis technologies to offer a complete client/server business modeling solution. Objective Software will market and sell SpreadBase 1.1 and DataPrism 2.1 as a bundled product.

SpreadBase and DataPrism

SpreadBase is the first Category-Based Modeling tool. Category-Based Modeling allows users to deal with higher-level groups of information called "categories," which in turn control the behavior of individual data elements. SpreadBase users are therefore able to focus on high-level analysis, and are free from focusing on the details.

DataPrism is a graphical ad hoc query tool which enables non-technical users to access corporate databases without programming. Through a point-and-click interface, DataPrism allows users with no knowledge of SQL to extract full value from local and remote relational databases. DataPrism understands relationships between tables, permitting easy-to-build queries.

Objective/Brio Agreement

Key product developments include:

* Direct access between SpreadBase and DataPrism queries

  and documents;

* DataPrism enables SpreadBase full access to a vast range

  of server data managers, via all major connectivity APIs;

* Data comes directly via DataPrism into SpreadBase with no

  translation or loss of metadata information upon import.

Richard Melmon, CEO of Objective Software, stated, "The real benefit is to the customer. We're providing two products that act as a one-stop source to overcome the real difficulties in making client/server data analysis work. With Brio's DataPrism, the desktop business analyst will not have to learn SQL or jump through hoops to get at that crucial data, but is free to focus on business decisions."

SpreadBase's access to DataPrism allows transfer of data from server database management systems as Structured Data Objects. These Objects pass not just data values, but field names and types as well. By maintaining the data's structure, it can be easily merged with existing models. Importing to a spreadsheet involves stripping away the imported data's structure, severing the important data connection between host and client.

"The data accessed by DataPrism and imported to SpreadBase will retain its 'memory'," explained Yorgen Edholm, CEO of Brio Technology. "Since SpreadBase is the premier data analysis tool for the flexible analysis of structured data, this relational integrity is vital to fully exploiting the robust functionality of SpreadBase's Category-Based Modeling."

Availability

The products will be bundled and available by May, 1993, at an introductory price of $695. Objective and Brio anticipate making the products available through the companies' direct sales forces as well as an 800 number. Training and consulting services will be available from both companies' support and application engineering staffs.

DataPrism is currently available on both the Macintosh and Windows. SpreadBase for Windows is currently in development and will ship in 1993.

Brio Technology

Brio Technology, Inc. was founded in 1984. Brio provides cross-platform software for desktop data access in the client/server enterprise. Brio's tightly integrated family of products enable non-technical end-users to query, analyze, and update corporate databases from Macintosh and Windows desktop computers. The company is headquartered in Mountain View, California.

Objective Software

Objective Software was founded in 1988 to deliver advanced business data analysis tools for client/server computing. Objective Software's SpreadBase is the first client/server business data analysis tool that provides flexible analysis of relational data, offering significant productivity gains to business users. SpreadBase is based on a new software technology, Category-Based Modeling, which allows users to create and maintain dynamic data models -- models that are defined and manipulated at the highest level, by category.

ObjectiveSoftware, 200 Chesapeake Dr, Redwood City, CA 94063

415-306-7400;  415-306-7404


NDX Accelerator Card High-End Neurocomputing
NDX ACCELERATOR CARD BRINGS HIGH-END NEUROCOMPUTING TO DESKTOP PC'S

Card Trains Neural Nets 100 Times Faster Than 486 PC

San Francisco, CA IEEE International Conference on Neural Networks -- March 29, 1993 -- NeuroDynamX, Inc. (NDX) announced today the NDX Neural Accelerator XP50, a PC expansion card for developing advanced artificial neural network applications.

The XP50 significantly reduces the processing time required to train real-world neural network applications, such as pattern recognition, signal classification, image processing, or financial forecasting. Networks that require 3 hours to train on a 486/25, converge in under 2 minutes with the XP50.

To accommodate large training sets and complex networks, the XP50 features 8 megabytes of RAM. Memory can be upgraded to 64 megabytes with optional daughter cards. Additional daughter cards are available for SCSI, DT-Connect, ITI VISIONbus, Digital Camera Interface and True-Color Frame Buffer interfaces.

The XP50 employs an Intel i860 RISC processor operating at 50 MHz to deliver up to 45 million connections per second in recall mode. During training, the XP50 delivers up to 15 million connection updates per second. The XP50 plugs into the standard AT/ISA bus expansion slot.

The XP50 includes a special version of NDX' s DynaMind neural network training software, for training Back Prop and recurrent networks. DynaMind features graphical training displays, accepts training data from spreadsheets and databases, and offers On-Line Help and a tutorial-based User's Guide.

As an early purchase incentive, NDX offers a free copy of DynaMind Developer with boards purchased before May 15, 1993. The Developer bundles DynaMind training software with several run-time options, including linkable C-code routines and simulation of Intel's 80170NX ETANN neural network IC.

The XP50 is also compatible with NDX's iDynaMind neural network IC training software shipped with the Intel Neural Network Training System.

The NDX Neural Accelerator XP50 requires a 286, 386 or 486 PC/AT with a standard ISA expansion slot. The NDX Neural Accelerator is currently available at the price of $8, 995.

DynaMind and DynaMind Developer run on a 286, 386 or 486 PC with at least 640K RAM, DOS 3.0 or higher and an EGA or VGA monitor. A mouse and math coprocessor are optional. The NeuroLink C-code routines compile under Borland Turbo C 2.0, Turbo C++ and Borland C++ and carry no run-time license fee.

The DynaMind Developer package is currently available at the price of $495

NeuroDynamX, PO Box 323, Boulder, CO 80306

800/747-3531;  FAX 303/442-2854


Windows Custom Controls - Programming Book
Windows Custom Controls

March 31, 1993 -- Lawrence, KS: R&D Technical Books has announced Windows Custom Controls, a new programming book by William Smith and Robert Ward. This book will be released April 1993, and is distributed exclusively worldwide by Prentice Hall.

Windows Custom Controls allows Windows developers to give their applications a distinctive look by building custom controls. The book includes ready-to-use code for numerous custom controls and gives detailed information on the designs, so that each control can be modified. Windows Custom Controls provides in-depth explanations on creating toolbox classes, custom dialog classes, and on interfacing custom controls to the Dialog editor.

A companion disk that includes all code is also available. All source code has been tested under Windows 3.1 and compiles under Microsoft C/C++, Quick C, and Borland C++.

R&D Technical Books is a division of R&D Publications, publishers of The C Users Journal, Windows/ DOS Developer's Journal, and Sys Admin.

Product Information:

Windows Custom Controls

Available April 1993

500 pp., $39.95

companion disk: $29.95

ISBN: 0 -13 -034497-4

Sales Information:

Prentice Hall

Order Processing Center

P.O. Box 11073

Des Moines, IA 50381-1073

515-284-6751;   FAX 515-284-2607

 Corporate: 800-223-1360

Government: 800-933-0688

R&D Publications

1601 West 23rd Street, Suite 200, Lawrence, KS 66046

(913) 841-1631;   FAX: (913) 841-2624


Dynamic Analyzer to Study Physical Systems
Visualize Systems of Chaos, Motion, and Electrical Phenomena with Dynamic Analyzer

Physics Academic Software Releases DYNAMIC ANALYZER

March 31, 1993--DYNAMIC ANALYZER is a multiple-window, computational software tool that enables students to study physical systems such as one- and two- dimensional motion, orbital and harmonic motion, and electrical phenomena. These realistic studies include frictional forces and nonlinear effects. In addition, variable potential, driven pendulum, and nonlinear oscillator simulations provide an introduction to chaotic systems.

Developed by Roger F. Sipson, Moorhead State University, DYNAMIC ANALYZER provides users with scenarios corresponding to the systems being analyzed. Results can be displayed in graphs, animations, and numerical tables using up to four active windows. The graphical output offers a very different view of common system behavior from the algebraic approach used in solving most textbook problems. And because the user is not required to have a high level of mathematical sophistication since the programs does all the calculations, even advanced topics like coupled oscillation can be included in introductory physics courses.

The scenario files associated with the physical systems were developed using DYNAMIC ANALYZER. "Although instructors and students can create their own scenario files," says Sipson, "those included with this program provide a rich variety of exercises and projects. They can even be modified to suit particular preferences and needs." You begin an investigation by reading in a scenario files, which determines what system is modeled and which variables are presented. You can easily change system parameters, adjust the initial position and velocity, and calculate one, two, or more concurrent runs.

Reviewers comment favorably on DYNAMIC ANALYZER's versatility. "DYNAMIC ANALYZER has excellent potential for use in a wide range of courses," says Jay P. Kopp, Loras College. "Fast animations and ease at changing scenarios make this package useful for demonstrations and assignments," says Bob Beichner, North Carolina State University.

DYNAMIC ANALYZER can be used in conjunction with lectures and a textbook. Four user levels make it suitable for introductory through upper-level physics courses, and several of the systems make it valuable for intermediate mechanics and electromagnetism courses as well.

DYNAMIC ANALYZER 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.

DYNAMIC ANALYZER operates on IBM PC, XT, AT, and PS/2 personal computers with at least 512K of RAM memory (640K recommended), DOS 3.2 or higher, and Hercules, CGA, MCGA, EGA, or VGA color graphics. A math coprocessor and graphics-capable printer are highly recommended.

DYNAMIC ANALYZER may be purchased from Physics Academic Software for $74.95 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 $224.95.

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.


Microsoft Guide to Visual Basic for MS-DOS

The Complete Guide to Visual Basic Programming

The MICROSOFT GUIDE TO VISUAL BASIC FOR MS-DOS--the hands-on introduction to the world of programming in Visual Basic--is now available from Microsoft Press.

Like the technology that revolutionized programming in the Microsoft Windows operating system, the Microsoft Visual Basic programming system for MS-DOS is an exciting advance in DOS-based application development. With its event-driven programming engine and innovative visual design tools, Visual Basic allows programmers to build powerful applications with unprecedented speed and ease.

In the MICROSOFT GUIDE TO VISUAL BASIC FOR MS-DOS, Visual Basic expert Peter Aitken helps readers develop key programming techniques so that they can start constructing interesting and rewarding projects right away. This easy-to-understand guide to learning and using Visual Basic for MS-DOS is packed with clear instructions and detailed examples for programmers new to Visual Basic and for those switching from the Microsoft QuickBasic' development system. In addition, Aitken highlights significant Visual Basic features and includes program examples that can be used as tutorials or adapted for inclusion in future projects. Readers will learn about:

* Elements of the Visual Basic programming environment

* Creating an effective user interface

* Event driven programming

* Visual Basic statements, expressions, and procedures

* Finding and correcting bugs and errors

* Managing input with menus and dialog boxes

* Using files to store data

* Creating desktop graphics

* Exploring compatibility issues

An entire chapter is devoted to describing the special features and additional capabilities of the Visual Basic Professional Edition. A comprehensive index helps readers quickly locate information on any topic in the book. A companion disk containing form modules, code modules, and make files for the projects discussed in the book is available directly from Microsoft Press. Ordering information can be found in the back of the book.

Peter G. Aitken has written extensively about computer hardware and software, with more than 60 articles and 14 books to his credit, including The Essential Guide to MS-DOS 5 Programming, from Microsoft Press.

Other titles covering Visual Basic programming from Microsoft Press include Running Visual Basic for Windows by Ross Nelson; The Microsoft Visual Basic Workshop and The Microsoft Visual Basic for MS-DOS Workshop, by John Clark Craig; and Visual Basic--Game Programming for Windows, by Michael J. Young.

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. Titles ranging from self-paced tutorials for first-time computer users to technical references for professional programers 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


SMARTCAT for Windows Floppy Disk Mgmt
SMARTCAT for WINDOWS - Bringing order to chaos.

SMARTCAT is a sophisticated new floppy disk management system for the Microsoft Windows operating environment. SmartCat was designed from the start as a Windows application, not a conversion of a Dos product. It makes full use of all the features of Windows to provide power and extensive functionality with the ease of use and famililar style of operation that the environment allows.

With SmartCat you can effectively manage your floppy disk collection, improve your productivity, reduce media wastage, simplify the use of archive tools and much much more. You will be putting yourself back in control of your data and allowing your creativity and talents the time to be effective.

SmartCat's Features

Some of SmartCat's advanced features include:

Full Windows MDI support, allowing the user multiple views of catalog data.

Virus scanner interface. SmartCat can optionally automatically call a virus scanning program before cataloging disks.

Multiple drive support. Both floppy and hard disks can be cataloged.

Archive support, for the ZIP, ARC, UH, etc. archive formats. Archive files can be analyzed when a disk is cataloged and the internal files recorded.

Windows association support, where a fib which is associated with a particular application r an automatically cause the application to start with the selected file as its input (the same as 'double clicking' a file which has a specified association while in File Manager).

Support for multiple discrete catalogs, and the ability to merge them for searching, reporting or statistical purposes.

File processing support Once you have found a particular fib you probably want to do something with it! Smartcat makes it easy to do almost anything with a file including copying it, moving it, deleting it, renaming it, running it (if it's executable), processing it (If it's associated with a particular application), extracting it if archived, exploding it if it itself is an archive or printing it. If the file is in an archive n will automatically be extracted first if appropriate to the requested operation. And if there is something that you want to do with a fib that is not in the list you can probably achieve it with the user extensibility feature!

User extensibility. SmartCat allows extension of its file processing features with the provision of seven 'user buttons' the text and action of which the user can configure himself. As delivered the caption of the first 'user button' is set to 'VIEW' and pressing it causes the NOTEPAD program to start with the specified file as its input The second user button is set to 'SCAN' and is configured to call McAfee's Virus scanning program. The other six buttons are set to 'USER2' - 'USER7', and when pressed initiate the WRITE program. As with all other file processing support if the file in question needs extracting from an archive first then SmartCat will do so.

User configurability. Certain parameters are modifiable by the user to accommodate different working approaches. In particular configuration of the options of the archive extraction utilities accommodates different requirements.

Sophisticated searching capabilities. SmartCat fully supports Dos Wildcards when searching for fibs. Additionally, more complex searches can be requested by the specification of ranges of filedates and filesizes in addition to filenames.

Sorting support. SmartCat allows sorting of all lists of files, however produced, in a number of useful orders. Full ClipBoard support. Any list of files produced from analysis of the catalog can b coped to the Windows ClipBoard, in the sort order requested by the user.

Reporting capabilities. Any list of disks or fibs generated can be printed on request.

Full Windows Help.

Shareable Software International Inc

PO Box 59102, Schaumburg, IL 60159

708-397-1221;  Fax: 708-397-0381

BBS: 215-623-6203 Conference 77


Flexibak PLUS V2.50 Hard Disk Backup System
Flexibak PLUS v2.50

FLEXIBAK Plus, like its predecessor, FLEXIBAK, is a flexible, easy to use hard disk backup system that takes a logical, simple and unique approach to the backup problem. With a conventional backup system, you are required to take a full backup approximately once a week and do daily incremental backups which are placed on separate disks. Should you need to restore from the backup, you must first restore the full backup and then each of the incremental backups up to the last backup taken. With FLEXIBAK Plus, all this is different as the concept of full backups and incremental backups is removed. Instead, you only need to take a full backup once and then all subsequent backups are paced on the same backup disks, giving some long term speed increases, simpler file restoration and an improved backup management capability. Here are some of the more outstanding features provided by FLEXIBAK Plus:

Selective backups allow you to specify, both globally and by directory, which file groups should be included in, or excluded from, the backup, potentially dramatically reducing the number of backup disks required. Incremental backups are placed on the same disks as the full backup, so you only ever need to take a full backup once. File management system means that FLEXIBAK Plus keeps track of what has been backed up, and informs you if any files have gone missing from your hard disk since the last backup. This allows you to recover accidentally deleted files. File compression is included in the system as is the capability to handle up to 20 hard disk drives. Alarm system warns you on booting your computer that you have forgotten to take a backup for a specified number of days.

Changes to 2.50 include:

1) Reduced program size and memory overhead.

2) You can now press <ESC> to abort the program while it

   is logging on.

3) Backup to fixed media. This is a MAJOR enhancement which

   allows you to take a backup across a network, LAPLink etc,

   to another hard disk, WORM drive or any writeable DOS disk

   device.

4) Optional copy of data file to Master Disk switch.

5) Better behaved when memory is short.

6) New command-line switches allow automatic unattended

   operation.

7) Now swaps program data out to XMS, EMS or disk when shelling

   out or formatting a disk.

8) Uses XMS as well as EMS to store file information.

9) Fixed to work with disk caches such as HyperDisk, which cache

   floppies, and can only detect disk changes when the FAT is

   changed.

10) Improved compression size and speed (about 5 -10% improvement

    in each case).

11) Reports are now sent to the screen and optionally to the

    printer.

12) Colour change Cyan replaced with Light Grey.

13) Bug fix for European users - The 'YIN' prompts now accept "Y"

    and "N" regardless of the country code settings for the

    computer.

14) FPSELECT utility added. Allows selection of data file from

    pick-list, and then runs FLEXIBAK Plus with the appropriate

    command-line. Registered version only!

15) 386 version added. This is essentially the same, but

    recompiled to make use of the 386 instruction set for

    increased speed. Registered version only!

16) Various minor bug fixes.

Shareable Software International Inc

PO Box 59102, Schaumburg, IL 60159

708-397-1221;  Fax: 708-397-0381

BBS: 215-623-6203 Conference 77


Vision Edit V3.5 Text Editor Released
NEW TEXT EDITOR For IBM-PC and Compatible Computers

Winnipeg, Man., CANADA -- Mar. 31, 1993 -- Vision Edit 3.5 was released by Andrzej Brzezinski & Marek Kosznik. A number of new features have been added.

Vision Edit is a DOS-based text editor. With Vision Edit many files can be edited simultaneously. Each file will be opened in a separate window. Most functions can be selected from pull-down menus or by clicking with a mouse on a Tool Bar so users do not have to remember any commands. More experienced users can invoke many commands with a single or double-key stroke (hot keys). An extensive, context-sensitive, on-line help can be activated at any time by pressing a key, or by clicking with a mouse on a help button present in all dialog boxes. A new File Manager allows browsing directories, deleting, renaming and copying files, and more.

Some features of Vision Edit can be customized. The colors of edit windows, dialog boxes and other elements of the user interface can be changed by a user. If somebody is used to another editor he or she may want to modify hot-key commands - Vision Edit will then behave like the editor that he or she is familiar with.

Vision Edit's virtual memory technology allows editing very large files of up to 4MB in size.

Because Vision Edit is based on Turbo Vision from Borland International the user interface is of the highest quality. Also users of Borland's products will feel right at home with Vision Edit.

Vision Edit allows printing tiles. Various printer settings can be defined in a Print Options dialog box. Also headers and footers can be created. A new Print Manager maintains a queue of print jobs allowing a user to select multiple files for printing

Vision Edit provides a user with a large number of editing functions that are grouped in several categories e.g. Box Commands, Block Commands etc. They can all be found in KeyCmds menu. Vision Edit's Macro capabilities allow a user to automatize repetitive editing tasks. A new Macro Editor allows editing macros.

System Requirements for the Vision Edit: an IBM PC XT, AT, PS/2 or compatible computer with 512KB RAM memory and DOS 2.0 or later. lt is recommended that you install VED on your hard disk (it will work from a floppy but will be slow). Expanded memory is not necessary but it will further speed up the program.

Vision Edit is available for $35 plus optional $15 for a printed manual (plus $3 S&H) from: Andrzej Brzezinski, P.O. Box 2657, Winnipeg, MB, R3C 4B3, Canada. Telephone orders can be placed by calling (204) 943-4020.


Budget Trilogy Version 4 Income Management
April 2, 1993 -- Version 4 of the Budget Trilogy has been released. It consists of three program sets; weekly incomes, biweekly incomes and monthly incomes There are three more documentation files, one for each of the budget programs These are ASP shareware programs for IBM compatibles, 512K, floppy or hard disk, Dos 3+

The budget system is based on the age-old Envelope budgeting system, wherein one labeled each envelope with the name of the budget item, such as 'Mortgage', 'Groceries', 'Electricity', and 'Phone. Each payday the appropriate amounts were distributed into the envelopes, so that when a particular bill came due, the money would be in its envelope to pay it. All the envelopes were usually filed in a shoebox. The system worked fine but was quite unwieldy as it required having the right change each payday for each envelope.

The Budget program, however, is smooth and efficient. A Checking Account becomes the 'shoebox', and individual variables become the envelopes. Each program consists of three programs. The BUDSETUP program allows one to change the color schemes of the various displays. The INITBUDG program is used to set up the budget. Instruction panels guide one in typing in the first line. They are instantly available at any time on any line. The program allows creating up to 38 budget accounts, with free choice as to names of each account, except that 'MISC' is required as the last entry. Expected income from up to six sources is entered. A savings account is entered with up to five categories. The INITBUDG program will be used also to delete or insert an account into a budget. After entering the current balance of the checking account, the budget set-up is finished.

The BUDGET program is the work-horse program used every payday. In the first session, the DEPOSIT Menu item is selected. Deposits are entered that are not included in the balance entered during the ITITBUDG program. If there are no deposits, '0' is entered in each of the deposit categories.

The Trial Budget routine begins by which the checking account money is distributed into the various budget accounts. Nothing is changed during this procedure until a final OK so experimentation may be done. When finally done the amounts distributed are transferred to the reserve accounts.

Next comes the 'Spending' routine where bills are paid.. As the money is spent, the total checking account balance is updated as well as the Total Reserve amount. When done the menu appears.

By choosing the 'Arrears' option, a page is displayed showing the arrears for each account, the time-payment account balances, the total spent-to-date for each of the non-time-payment accounts, the savings account status, and the total income received from each source to date. Another page is then displayed showing the total indebtedness, the total arrears, a guide to making out the checks, and the minimum balance to maintain until the next payday to retain the integrity of the budget.. Progress charts of the total indebtedness and the total arrears may then be displayed.

After the first session, the procedure each payday will be to first bring the computer records up to date by recording any checks that have been written between paydays. Deposits are entered, the Trial budget session is completed, and the bill-paying session is completed.

The primary advantages of this program are: 1) Unlike static budget programs that merely list a budget, this program is dynamic as one constantly works within the budget. 2) The complete budget is displayed on a single page at all times. 3) A thoughtful decision may be made as to the disposition of the small amounts left over. This is the money that usually just disappears during the years of operating without a budget, leaving the old person one will become wondering what happened to all the money during those earning years. 4) Error-correcting routines at every entry level. 5) Arrears record keeping, to constantly reveal the budget status. 6) Easy transfer of money between accounts or to/from the savings account. 7) Excellent documentation and service.

Riverside Software, RR3, Box 830, Orrington, ME 04474

207-825-3246


Sybase & Apple Client/Server Tools Initiative
SYBASE AND APPLE PARTNER IN CLIENT/SERVER TOOLS INITIATIVE

Apple features award-winning Deft CASE product in Tools Initiative

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, April 5, 1993 -- Sybase, Inc. and Apple Computer, Inc. today announced that Sybase is a partner in Apple's Client/Server Tools Initiative. The Sybase/Apple partnership is based on the strength of SYBASE's Computer Aided Software Engineering (CASE) tool, the SYBASE Deft product. The Deft tool is a featured database design and analysis tool in Apple's Client/Server Tools announcement. As a member of Apple's client/server tools initiative, Sybase will enhance the Deft tool to support key Apple technologies, including AppleScript.

Sybase is a leading vendor of enterprise client/server relational database management systems (RDBMS), application development tools, administrative tools, connectivity software and consulting services. Its database design and analysis tool, the Deft product, commercially available since 1989, is ideally suited for Apple's Client/Server Tools Initiative, which was established to provide Apple customers with tools to build client/server cross platform applications. The Deft tool is based on client/server architecture and runs on the Macintosh computer with gateway products for uploading database designs to UNIX and VAX/VMS servers. The Deft tool's strength is in front-end CASE tool capabilities that support all the major RDBMS products, including SYBASE, Oracle, Rdb, Ingres, Informix and DB2. This unique ability allows organizations to maximize their existing technology investments by standardizing on a single CASE tool across these heterogenous environments.

The Deft product is recognized as the database design and analysis tool that meets the critical productivity needs of RDBMS developers within the on-line enterprise. The product has won several awards, including Digital News & Review's 1992 Target Award and 1990's Editor's Choice Award. The Deft tool streamlines the analysis and design stage of software development. The Deft tool has the ability to automate the process of capturing users' requirements, analyzing and designing the proposed system, collecting data definitions, and documenting and implementing the application.

Sybase and Apple made this announcement at the Apple Enterprise Computer Conference (AECC) being held in San Francisco. Apple's Client/Server Tools Initiative is designed to provide solutions for large corporate customers designing client/server, cross-platform applications.

John Nauman, Enterprise Systems Division's Integration Technologies business unit, said, "Good systems development starts with good design. Sybase's Deft product is a comprehensive tool for doing design and modeling in a client/server environment. Support of AppleScript in the Deft product's upper CASE tool will enable integration amongst development tools and will enable the Deft tool to play a role as a repository in client/server development."

Stu Schuster, Sybase vice president of marketing, said, "We view the Macintosh as an important development platform for client/server computing. Many of our customers have bought Macintosh computers specifically to develop cross-platform applications using the Deft tool. Our objective in partnering with Apple is to increase the visibility of the Macintosh and Deft product as important elements for client/server computing."

The SYBASE Deft product runs on any Macintosh with 2.5 MB RAM, System 6.02 or later, and a hard disk.

Sybase, Inc.

Sybase, Inc. (NASDAQ: SYBS) develops and markets a leading family of client/server-based software products and services for on-line, enterprise-wide applications. Sybase's integrated family of software includes servers, tools, connectivity, and administration/control products that provide complete desktop to mainframe solutions. Headquartered in Emeryville, CA, Sybase markets its products worldwide through its direct sales force, telesales, distributors, OEMs, VARs, and Systems Integrators.

Sybase Inc, 6475 Christie Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608

510-596-3500;  Fax: 510-658-9441


Mitsubishi Adds FCC Class B to Diamond Pro 17
MITSUBISHI ADDS FCC CLASS B CERTIFICATION TO DIAMOND PRO 17 COLOR MONITOR

CYPRESS, Calif., April 5, 1993 -- The Display Products group of Mitsubishi Electronics America, Inc. announced today that the Diamond Pro 17, a high-         m performance color monitor for PCs, Macintoshes and UNIX-based systems, has         D received FCC Class B certification. Products with the Class B designation are engineered so that they do not disrupt the operation of household electronics such as radios and televisions and are approved for home use.

Introduced in July 1992, the autoscanning monitor offers a wide compatibility range; the Diamond Match Color Calibration System, a microprocessor-based system for matching on-screen images with hard copy colors; microprocessor-based front panel controls; and a low magnetic emission design that meets all U.S., Canadian and international standards, including MPR II.

"As home offices and small business become more sophisticated, the need for advanced products with FCC Class B has increased. By adding this certification to the Diamond Pro 17 we are able to offer to home office users one of the industry's finest monitors for general business/Windows, CAD/CAM/CAE, desktop publishing and graphic design. And because the Diamond Pro 17 has the smallest enclosure of any 17-inch monitor, it will appeal to users who have limited space," said Craig Sloss, product marketing manager.

The Diamond Pro 17 is the first Mitsubishi monitor to use a vertically flat, square-cornered Trinitron aperture grille CRT. Other Mitsubishi monitors use either conventional spherical or flat square CRTs.

The Diamond Pro 17 has an aperture grille pitch of 0.25 mm and is compatible with all medium- and high-resolution graphics standards from 640 x 480 through 1280 x 1024 at 60 Hz non-interlaced, including the new XGA-2. The monitor is well-suited for the popular new flicker-free 1024 x 768 high refresh rates of 70 to 76 Hz non-interlaced. Other standards it runs include VGA, SVGA, XGA, XGA-2, 8514/A; Macintosh II, LC and Quadra; UNIX-based systems such as Silicon Graphics and Sun Microsystems; and most third-party graphics cards. The autoscan range is 30 to 64 kHz horizontal and 50 to 130 Hz vertical.

User controls are all microprocessor-based and located on the front panel of the monitor. The digital scan mode memory stores up to 12 different operating frequencies, with display parameters remaining constant when switching between frequencies. The controls also adjust brightness, contrast, vertical size and position, horizontal size and position, convergence, on-screen colors, memory reset, degauss, pin cushion amplitude and phase, and key balance.

The Diamond Pro 17 comes standard with Diamond Matte anti-glare and anti-static coating on a dark tinted CRT to reduce glare from ambient lighting. Many competing 17-inch monitors only offer anti-glare screens as an expensive option.

The monitor also includes an integrated tilt/swivel base and a VGA signal cable. Apple cable adapter plugs for Macintosh II, LC and Quadra connectivity are available at no charge.

The Diamond Pro 17 has a two-year warranty covering parts and labor. Suggested retail price is $1,499.

Mitsubishi Electronics America, Inc., a leading supplier of premier high resolution color monitors, offers one of the industry's broadest product lines featuring a full range of sizes from 14- to 37-inches. The company is one of the only manufacturers to offer all CRT types and each of its monitors is engineered to be equally compatible with Macintosh, Apple third-party (Radius, RasterOps and SuperMac) and DOS platforms.

One of the world's leading OEM suppliers of monitors, the company also sells Mitsubishi brand name products through an extensive network of authorized distributors, value added resellers, integrators, superstores and dealers.

Mitsubishi Electronics, 5665 Plaza Dr, Cypress, CA 90630

714-220-2500:  800-828-6372;  Fax: 714-229-3854


Cheyenne Software Newsletter, Winter 1993
LINKS - Cheyenne Software Inc Newsletter - Winter 1993 Issue

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

Cheyenne's Contribution to Data Security is a Complete, Clean, Virus-Free Backup!

Your valuable computer data is exposed to disaster each and every day of the week. You may experience a power glitch and lose your hard disk; you could accidentally erase files and directories; someone else might sit at your computer and erase files and directories; you may accidentally unleash a virus on your computer. These dangers are real, and we confront them every day The danger is compounded when your system is attached to a network.

Data security comes in many shapes and forms, and varies from organization to organization. In some military and government circles, security consists of PCs installed in special cases and placed so that no one can walk up behind you and peak over your shoulder. Some PC manufacturer's address security by providing PCs with a key lock that allows you to disable the power supply. Some operating systems (such as NetWare and UNIX) address security by providing password protection, and establishing different levels of users with different privileges. All of these methods protect certain aspects of your system to certain degrees, but none of them are foolproof

To get as close as possible to a secure system (assuming there is no such thing as a 100% secure system) you need to adopt a combination of strategies to protect your data. The following suggestions can help save you from losing data to some of the more common data deamons.

Use your system's built in security

The first step you can take is to use the built in security systems that come with your computer and software. If your computer has a lock, lock it when you leave at the end of the day If you are running Novell's NetWare, use passwords and limit the rights of users on your system. Institute procedures to prevent people from putting unauthorized diskettes into the system; this is primarily how viruses are spread.

Use software designed to provide security

The next stage of system security is to actually purchase software designed to help you protect your system. Cheyenne's ARCserve and InocuLAN are two software products that can go a long way to protecting your valuable data.

Backup your data

You should make a copy of your data and store it off-site. ARCserve is a fully automated data management system. It can back up data to tape or to another hard disk. You can schedule ARCserve to do this during off hours, and you can even set up a tape rotation scheme and back up your data nightly. ARCserve can backup NetWare servers, local workstations, and remote workstations (including PCs, MACs, and UNIX boxes).

Hard disks are getting bigger, and more reliable all the time. The down side to this is that since your hard disk holds more data and lasts longer, you neglect to back it up. Then the day comes when your system can't seem to read from the hard disk any more, and all your valuable data is gone. ARCserve protects your data from hard disk failures, is easy to use, and could pay for itself by recovering the contents of just one hard disk.

Check for viruses

You should check your system regularly for viruses. Cheyenne's InocuLAN is a server-based, anti-virus program. It's designed to protect your Novell servers and clients from viruses. Although a great deal of viruses are spread from floppy disks, a network offers many points of entry for a virus. A file server is also a perfect breeding ground for viruses. If a virus gets into your file server and starts doing damage, and you don't have a backup of that file server, your chances of recovering data could be slim.

InocuLAN scans your volumes for viruses at intervals that you can set. It scans for known viruses, and it also has the ability to detect virus-like behavior on your workstation and than act on it. Once InocuLAN detects a virus, it can send you a notice and you can request that it remove the virus. InocuLAN in most cases, then removes the virus code from the infected files and in many instances is able to cure the virus.

InocuLAN also works with ARCserve by scanning files for viruses as ARCserve backs them up to minimize the possibility of backing up a virus contaminated file.

System security comes in many shapes and forms. Cheyenne's contribution to data security is a complete, clean, virus-free backup.

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Changes are periodically made to Cheyenne's software and are instituted as files on the Bulletin Board. These files are made available on the BBS so end-users can have easy access to the latest updates. If you need any of these files, please call our Technical Support department at (516) 484-5110 and have your serial number available. Our Technical Support representatives will assist you in retrieving the needed file(s). Just an update on the latest files available . . .

ARCserve

--------

MIDI40.ZIP   -- ARCserve 4.0 NLM drivers for use with Micro

                Design International SCSI EXPRESS

VAP40FIX.ZIP -- ARCserve 4.0 VAP will backup open files

CHEYENNE.ZIP -- ARCserve 4.0 NLM version. File server utilization

                may increase while Tapedrv NLM is loaded. New

                Cheyenne. NLM solves the issue

386QIC40.ZIP -- ARCserve 4.0 NLM version QIC-02 drivers.

MACSERVE.ZIP -- Latest MACSERVE.NLM

INCOMP.ZIP   -- ARCserve 4.0 NLM 250 user version. Will now

                report "incomplete" message at the end of the

                backup if any retried files were missed.

40DOSAGT.ZIP -- ARCserve 4.0 DOSagent can now be unloaded.

EVEREX.ZIP   -- ARCserve 4.0 NLM version. Tape support now

                included for the EVEREX 1 gigabyte tape drive.

286PATCH.ZIP -- ARCserve 4.0 NLM version. Patch to CLIB for

                backing up remote 286 servers.

UTILITY.ZIP  -- ARCserve queue utilities.

ARCserve/Solo

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

ARCSHELL.ZIP -- ARCHSELL.EXE update

InocuLAN

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VIRDEF.DAT   -- InocuLAN 1.0. Fixes false alarms for DOS 3.2

VIRTEST.COM  -- Virus test simulator.

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Cheyenne Software Acquires Applied Programming Technologies

Cheyenne is very pleased to welcome Applied Programming Technologies, Inc. (APT) of Lake Success, New York to our family.

APT is the developer of NOSS, a Network Object Storage Subsystem software product, which is used to meet the high capacity storage demands of today's local and wide area network environments. The product provides an ideal environment for large volume storage of corporate records, document images, CAD files, databases and spreadsheets. APT also markets CASE (computer aided software engineering) tools which assist the user in the development of object-oriented imaging applications that run under Microsoft's Windows 3.1 Operating System. These tools manage the scan, view and print operations required by all imaging applications and are easily applied using visual programming methods.

Cheyenne is optimistic that the integration of APT's storage technology and ARCserve will produce a multitude of rewards for both companies, as well as the end-user. In addition, we feel confident that similar advantages will result from the integration of APT's imaging technology with FAXserve, the company's server-based facsimile services software product, and any future Cheyenne product offerings. Cheyenne will integrate APT technology with its line of network storage software products and will market these products through its worldwide OEM and distribution soles channels.

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Cheyenne Software and EduQuest, Sign OEM Agreement

In January Cheyenne announced the establishment of an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) relationship with EduQuest, the IBM Educational Systems Company which will provide EduQuest customers with a complete storage management solution.

EduQuest will be marketing Cheyenne's ARCserve as a bundled solution with IBM's 4mm and 8mm DAT Tape Drives. The solution is now available to the U.S. and Canadian elementary and secondary education markets through EduQuest's Direct Sales Representatives. The IBM 4mm 2.0G Tape Drive provides up to 2GB of data per cartridge (4-8 GB with data compression), as well as a diagnostic tape cartridge for stand-alone diagnostic tests. The IBM 8mm Tape Drive provides 2.3GB of storage capacity in either an internal or external chassis. As new technology is developed by IBM, it will be consistently reviewed for certification with ARCserve.

EduQuest, the IBM Educational Systems Company, specializes in the development and marketing of technology solutions designed for elementary and secondary school levels (K-12) which assist teachers and administrators in improving the quality of education for America's children. Created by IBM on January 22, 1992, EduQuest is the successor to IBM Education Systems (which had been in existence since 1985), and includes more than 1,000 professionals across the U.S. specializing in K-12 education.

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Links in the Cheyenne Product Chain

ARCserve/Open Now Shipping

ARCserve/Open, Cheyenne's first native UNIX backup and restore solution is now shipping and is available through many of Cheyenne's existing North American distributors, such as Tech Data, Ingram Micro and Vitek.

Cheyenne's first entry into the UNIX market, ARCserve/Open has been designed to provide SCO UNIX users with the same high-performance capabilities that NetWare users have been offered in ARCserve. This product represents yet another major milestone in Cheyenne's history The company has applied years of experience in developing powerful, high performance backup solutions for the NetWare environment to the UNIX environment. Cheyenne currently provides backup services for UNIX clients in the NetWare environment through our Uagent option for ARCserve. ARCserve/Open for SCO UNIX now offers these customers a native solution for use with the SCO operating system.

Cheyenne plans to extend these capabilities to other UNIX platforms in the future.

New Support for UNIX Workstations

Cheyenne is very pleased to report the availability of additional UNIX client backup capabilities for ARCserve. Shipping as Uagent, this client backup ability now allows ARCserve to backup UNIX operating systems, such as SCO UNIX, Interactive, Solaris and UnixWare. Cheyenne will also be marketing Uagents for IBM AIX 6000, Hewlett Packard UX, and DEC Ultrix in the very near future. (Please note support for each UNIX operating system (Uagent) is sold separately).

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Parlez-Vous FAXserve? Now you can!

Cheyenne has expanded board support for FAXserve, the first file server-based, automated approach to network facsimile services that is totally integrated with NetWare. FAXserve now includes support for the Intel SatisFAXtion 400i and the Comwave Microfax boards. The SatisFAXtion 400i enables users to fax via the digital Group IV standard. Note that fax communications to a Group III fax machine will still take place at Group Ill speeds (9.6KB/Sec.).

Because it is certified in nearly every major market worldwide, support for the Comware Microfax board was critical for Cheyenne's international customers to benefit from FAXserve's high-performance fasimile management services. Specific regulatory PTT requirements within each country require fax boards to undergo extensive testing and modifications to comply with its standards.

Cheyenne has also incorporated native language support into FAX-serve, providing users with the option of using French, German, Spanish, Italian, or entering their own language for the text contained on the fax cover sheet.

Now any company, anywhere in the world, can standardize on one LAN FAX product, FAXserve.

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Fair Dinkum

(The aussie meaning for true and factual)

The Role of Cheyenne's Strategic Business Unit

Full support and consistent communication with the various channels that market Cheyenne's products, is a goal which we are committed to achieving.

One of these vital channels includes Major Chains, such as the Future Now, Inacom, MicroAge, ComputerLand, and Intelligent Electronics, as well as System Integrators including Electronic Data Systems and Computer Sciences Corporation, on providing customers with TURNKEY SOLUTIONS. These firms offer notonly the needed hardware mix for networks, such as the file server, tap drive, and controller cards, they offer a wide range of software products providing the user with a single source for data and network management.

Cheyenne supports the efforts of these organizations through its Strategic Business Unit, which was recently established to promote relationships between Cheyenne and Major Chains and System Integrators. As a result of these relationships, which spans from the corporate to the branch levels, new and exciting international and vertical marketing opportunities now exist for Cheyenne. Programs initiated by the Strategic Business Unit encourage Cheyenne awareness and product interest. In addition, the development of special promotions and joint-marketing efforts, in conjunction with Cheyenne's Authorized Distributors. through Major Chains and System Integrators provides Cheyenne customers with a broader spectrum of sources in which to obtain the Cheyenne family of networking software solutions.

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European Bulletin Board System Now Operational

Cheyenne is pleased to report that all business partners throughout Europe, including distributors and OEMs, as well as Cheyenne customers, may now obtain access to Cheyenne's Bulletin Board System (BBS), which is located in the Versailles office, and duplicates the BBS in the Roslyn headquarters.

The number to access this BBS is +331-39633362. A second European BBS is planned for the new Croydon office in the UK and will be operational by March 1993.

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Cheyenne Software, 3 Expressway Plaza, Roslyn Heights, NY 11577

516-484-5110;  fax: 516-484-3446


RAMLIGHT 1.0    RAMdisk activity indicator TSR

RAMLIGHT is a TSR which provides an activity indicator for ramdisks in the form of a blinking rectangle in the upper right corner of the screen. Whenever any access is made to a drive that is being monitored, whatever is currently in that position is replaced with a bright white rectangle; approximately one-tenth of a second later, the previous contents are restored. Each access resets the timer, so if additional accesses are made while the white rectangle is on the screen, it will not be removed until one-tenth of a second after the last access.

RAMLIGHT requires DOS version 2.0 or better. It uses about 11K of conventional memory while installing itself; when resident, it requires 848 bytes of conventional memory when monitoring one drive, and an additional 48 bytes for each additional drive monitored.

James W. Birdsall, 11112 NE 124 LN #D204, Kirkland, WA 98034

COMPUSERVE:  71261,1731       GENIE:  J.BIRDSALL2

INTERNET:

  (the following are alternate addresses for the same place):

     support@picarefy.com

     picarefy!support@amc.com

     picarefy!support@netcom.com

     amc-gw!picarefy!support@coco.ms.washington.edu

     uunet!uw-coco!amc-gw!picarefy!support


The Windows Shareware 500 from Ventana Press
Ventana Press Opens a Window on Affordable, Fun Software

Microsoft Windows is marketed as the quick and easy solution to, well, practically everything. But what the ads don't say is that it can be time consuming and costly to customize Windows to fit individual needs. Ventana Press offers an exciting alternative with The Windows Shareware 500 by John Hedtke, a look at free and inexpensive software to enhance the Windows environment. The book/disk combination contains four disks, including an America Online for Windows membership disk with ten hours free connect time.

"Windows is cheap to get into, but the standard commercial Windows applications are expensive," observes award-winning author Hedtke. "Shareware offers a simple, sometimes stunning alternative to the massive commercial products that often include more than most people really need. Windows users just need some help sifting through it."

Indeed, Hedtke has looked at more than 20,000 programs to arrive at his favorites in categories such as games, fonts, communication and connectivity, graphics, business, utilities, education, developer aids, and more. Whether users want to increase their productivity, invent new applications, or just experience some spectacular games, The Windows Shareware 500 is packed with possibilities, including:

* MicroLink--Every Windows user needs a good communications program.

* Plug-In For Program Manager--An improvement on Program manager, this lets users change the cursor, assign individual folder icons, and display system information.

* Warheads for Windows--When it's time for good games, Warheads pits users against incoming missiles in arcade style.

* CCIZip--This shell for all archiving programs lets users compress, decompress and view program archives without exiting Windows.

* Castle of the Winds--Arguably the best Windows game ever created, it's a great way to while away lots of time!

The Windows Shareware 500 also gives an enlightening overview of shareware itself: what is it, where is it, and how does it work? The "best of the best" programs are included on three disks along with a fourth disk containing the America Online for Windows software. A companion library on America Online, The Windows Shareware 500 Library, contains updated versions of all programs in the book.

John Hedtke has been writing and managing projects since 1984. In addition to publishing numerous books, manuals and articles, he has designed and written manuals and online help for dozens of clients, including Microsoft and America Online, designed and produced applications and worked extensively with bulletin boards. He also writes training materials and teaches in a variety of computer-related areas.

The Windows Shareware 500 is softcover, 7 3/8" X 9 1/4", 410 pages with illustrations. Suggested retail price: $39.95. ISBN: 1-56604-045-0.

Ventana Press publishes books and other materials that help computer users become more productive, including The Mac Shareware 500, The Official America Online for Windows Membership Kit & Tour Guide, Voodoo Windows, Windows, Word & Excel Office Companion, Word for Windows Design Companion and Looking Good in Print. All titles are available in bookstores and through Ventana Press.

Ventana Press, PO Box 2468, Chapel Hill, NC 27515

919-942-0220;  Fax: 919-942-1140


Laptop Version PC Travel & Entertainment Guide
NEW LAPTOP VERSION OF ELECTRONIC TRAVEL GUIDE DESIGNED FOR BUSINESS TRAVELERS

Contains Entertainment Information on 36 Key Destinations

Santa Barbara, CA: The release of the expanded, updated Version 3.1 of the PC TRAVEL AND ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE was announced today by the TravelData Company, software publishers who specialize in electronic travel planners for business travelers with laptops.

Designed as both an in-flight and home office personal productivity tool, the new Version 3.1 also includes a print utility for office use that will output preformatted guides to restaurants, entertainment, sightseeing, hotels, rental car price comparisons and local weather conditions for each city, or a specific area within the city. The 36 destinations included in PC TRAVEL account for approximately 80% of the business travel destinations in the U.S., plus Paris and London.

The laptop version is ideally designed to both minimize the hard disk storage requirements and also allow the user to retrieve data directly from the floppy disk on a geographical basis. The data disks are divided into either the Eastern half of the United States (including London and Paris), or the Western half which includes the Hawaiian Islands. The 250K retrieval program is stored permanently on the hard disk. A special install program for Windows users has also been incorporated into the new version with a PC TRAVEL icon already loaded into the PCT directory.

According to TravelData President, William Benjamin, "...the new 3.1 laptop version of PC TRAVEL is the most complete, cost-effective travel planner now available to frequent travelers who like to plan their own trips. It saves hours of frustrating phone calls, and provides the critical, unbiased information needed to make business trips more comfortable, more interesting, and more productive." He estimated that users will save at least $25-$50 per trip and still enjoy better restaurants and hotels via the best buy recommendations and price comparisons that are instantly displayed for each city.

A corporate rate flagging program enables the business traveler to flag hotels, rental car agencies and restaurants with whom their company has pre-negotiated special rates or discounts. The special rates or discounts can be inserted by the user and this information will automatically be saved from one edition to the next. Corporate travel managers can customize their internal version of PC TRAVEL with corporate rates, and distribute copies of the customized version to their frequent travelers on a special license basis.

New content features that have been added to PC TRAVEL include performance dates and programs for local theater, symphony, opera, ballet, and professional sports, as well as new exhibits that are scheduled for local museums, historical sites, and city celebrations.

The electronic city guide continues to provide exhaustive, critical coverage of star-rated restaurants that are searchable by 26 different cuisine types, as well as star-rated hotels that can be viewed by price range and location.  A "Best Buy" menu choice allows the user to browse through five price ranges for hotels, restaurants and rental cars and quickly select the best buy -- i.e. the most value per dollar -- for lodging, dining or transportation.

The PC TRAVEL AND ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE is sold only on a subscription basis with six-month updates being shipped automatically. An annual subscription costs $49.95 and can be ordered by calling, toll-free, 800-635-9777. The user support number for all subscribers is (805) 683-0301.

The regular desktop version that is loaded directly on the hard disk combines all data and the retrieval program on two high-density disks, or three to five low-density diskettes, and requires 4.5 megabytes of hard disk storage, 640K of internal memory and an IBM compatible computer that runs DOS 2.1 or higher.

The special laptop Version 3.1 of the PC TRAVEL GUIDE requires an IBM or compatible personal computer with 640K of internal memory and operates on DOS 2.1 or higher. The program disk requires only 240K of hard disk storage while each 1.44MB data disk requires a high density drive.

The initial search level of the software program displays quickly a price and quality of service comparison screen, with address and phone number, for preliminary decision making. The user can then browse for more detailed information at the second level, calling up each individual facility for a complete description and critical review. Specific locations are searchable by downtown, neighborhood, suburban and airport areas. The easy-to-use program requires only four keys to operate the entire program.

For Windows users, there is a special set of installation instructions plus a PC TRAVEL icon that is installed in the PCT directory.

The TravelData Company

5266 Hollister Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93111


COMPUEXPO Sept 9-11, 1993 - News Update
COMPUEXPO, September 9-11, 1993

Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV USA

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Energy-Efficient Computer Technology Paviliion Set for COMPUEXPO '93

COMPUEXPO will play host to a pavilion consisting of PC Technology Providers supporting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency "Energy Star Computers" Program, a new initiative in cooperation with the PC industry supporting the development of energy-saving computer products for the 1990's and beyond.

"Computer systems currently account for 5% of commercial electricity use in the United States, with potential growth to 10% by the Year 2000. By supplying computer components and subsystems with energy-saving features, or power management software, companies supporting the Energy Star Computers Program, provide the critical building blocks for integrating an energy-efficient computer," said Brian Johnson, Program Mana~er for the EPA Energy Star Program in Washington, D.C. "We have also introduced an "Industry Allies" Program, in which member companies work together toward the incorporation of energy-saving mechanisms as standard features in PC Products," Johnson added.

"We welcome the initiative by COMPUEXPO, to promote the development of energ,v-saving computers by hosting an Energy Star Pavilion at the show, as well as their efforts to educate PC Technology Providers in the U.S. and internationally about the importance of energysaving PC's", Johnson concluded.

Companies seeking more information about the U.S. EPA "Energy Star Computers" Program may call Brian Johnson at (202) 233-9114, or may call COMPUEXPO at (510) 657-3418.

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COMPUEXPO ANNOUNCES 1993 OFFICIAL CO-SPONSOR TEAM

The COMPUEXPO '93 Official Co-Sponsor Team includes The ASCII Group, Inc, the leading group of independent computer resellers in the U.S. and Canada. Established in 1984, The ASCII Group has grown to a current membership exceeding 1,100 independent computer resellers worldwide with annual group retail sales exceeding $3.2 billion dollars. The Taipei Hsien and Taipei Computer Associations (THCA) (TCA) are Taiwan's two major computer organizations with a combined membership exceeding 4,500 computer related companies. These two associations serve as the focal point to the extensive business opportunities available in Taiwan and act as the bridge between international buyers and suppliers. The National Business Information Association (NBI), a leading association of computer resellers and manufacturers in the U.S. brings to the Team over 200 supporting members. The Computer Association of North America (CANA), comprising over 175 Eastern U.S. resellers with annual group sales exceeding $1.5 billion dollars formed to provide its reseller membership with up-to-date industry trends and the market information needed to be competitive in today's PC marketplace, is also a COMPUEXPO '93 Co-sponsor.

The '93 Official Co-sponsor Team includes a number of major computer industry trade publications who focus on the reseller/VAR channels. The ASM Group, which includes Computer Sources, European Computer Sources and Asian Sources Computer Products, InfoWorld l'ublishing Company, publishing both InfoWorld and InfoWorld Direct, Computer Technology Review and MicroTimes are among the growing list of industry trade supporters.

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COMPUEXPO '93 Proves Itself as Year-Round Partner of Emerging Technology Providers

Newark, Calif. - UNSC Investment Group, Inc., organizers of the global PC trade show COMPUEXPO, today announced the commencement of its second reseller focused season. Successfully launched by their first show in '92, COMPUEXPO organizers are hitting 1993 with a theme that will reach computer industry resellers, VARs, manufacturers and technology entrepreneurs with unmatched global, strategic partnering: Marketing Edge and Technology Source - the twin business needs of competitive PC industry companies.

The growing number of COMPUEXPO '93 exhibitors include industry leaders IBM, Microsoft, Western Digital, TEAC America, Epson America, American Megatrends, ACER America and Sun Moon Star, all second time exhibitors.

Emerging PC providers include innovative leaders Abest, Antron, Crystal, Easystor, KYE, Linnex, Microland and Songtech. Six major pavilions featuring new products, technologies and sourcing partners will also offer first hand contact with many Pacific Rim, European and U.S. energy-saving PC product companies.

With over 100 COMPUEXPO '92 exhibitors re-signed for expanded floor space, the feel is "make room for new business". New, emerging companies are following the leaders to get in on the more focused environment that COMPUEXPO offers. "COMPUEXPO was more focused and intirnate than (other trade shows). The pace was more relaxed and it was much easier to actually conduct business," said Michael Ham, Sales & Marketing Representative for American Megatrends, Inc. John Stilin, Manager OEM Sales for Microsoft Corporation concluded, "We went to COMPUEXPO ('92) to talk to OEMs and that's precisely who was at the show."

Targeting attendees is a leading focus for COMPUEXPO organizers. The '92 attendance held true to the highly qualified market of PC OEMs, VARs, system integrators and resellers targeted. Said June Lo, Executive VP of UNSC, "Over 72% of COMPUEXPO '92 attendees were computer remarketers, includin 40% VAR/System Integrator, 20% Computer Retailer and 12% PC Products distributor or super/club store reseller! But, the really good news is that over 77% of our attendees were decision makers with purchasing authority, making COMPEXPO truly a "trade show" and partnership building event."

Incorporated in September, 1991, UNSC Investment Croup, Inc. was founded to produce COMPUEXPO, a global PC trade show that serves as an international sourcing partner. UNSC is committed to delivering the highest return on investment in the computer indust~ by providing a cost effective trading environment linking Resellers, VARs and Wholesale Buyers with emerging brand OEMs, Manufacturers and Suppliers.

For more information about COMPUEXPO'93, please contact Susan Cooney at (510) 657-3418 or (510) 657-3499 fax.

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TAIWAN Technology Companies Build Brand Awareness

Last month, COMPUEXPO, in association with the Taipei Hsien Computer Association, hosted a seminar in Taipei, Taiwan focusing on methods PC Technology Providers can use to build "brand awareness" for their products. Over so companies attended the seminar, held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, Taipei. In addition to the COMPUEXPO speaker, representatives from Western Digital Corp., Taiwan Branch and Sun Moon Star Corp. spoke to the assembled audience on the importance of having a clearly identifiable brand name, and the role of marketing services like COMPUEXPO in achieving high brand name awareness.

"COMPUEXPO was highly successful for us in generating awareness for our new multimedia products," said Dr. James Liao, of Visionetics Corp., during the seminar question and answer period. "We made direct contact with over 500 qualified resellers for our products, and are still hard at work turning those sales leads into long term customers for our company," he added.

The COMPUEXPO Brand Awareness Seminar was held at the beginning of "Taiwan Image Week" an international event sponsored by CETRA designed to heighten awareness of modern marketing techniques among Taiwan corporations, and to reinforce the message of the high quality for which Taiwan products are known on the international market.

"COMPUEXPO supported Taiwan Image Week, in particular, the efforts by Taiwan's Computer Industry to take its marketing message directly to US resellers and system integrators, said Stanley Chao, a member of the COMPUEXPO Board. "We are confident COMPUEXPO will continue to be the best showcase for Taiwan PC and PC Technology Providers to accomplish these objectives," he concluded.

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Trade Show Exhibiting and Attending Tips

COMPUEXPO, in conjunction with INCOMM Center for Research & Sales Training is proud to provide a series of tip sheets on how to obtain better results as a trade show exhibitor or attendee. Various topics include "Six Strategies for Maximizing Exhibiting Results" and "Five Tips for Trade Sbow Attendees", and many other valuable "hot tip sheets". Call or write:

UNSC Investment Group, Inc.

39899 Balentine Dr., Ste. 175 Newark, CA 94560

(510) 657-3418;    (510) 657-3499 fax


Dolphin Encrypt for Data Security
Dolphin Encrypt

Dolphin Encrypt uses a symmetric key encryption process to encrypt data on MS-DOS computers. Information is encrypted using an encryption key which is kept secret. Without this key encrypted files cannot be read and are safe from unauthorized access. The key can be from 8 to 60 characters in length, so it can be a phrase which is easy to remember. Upper and lower case are equivalent, so you don't have to remember exact capitalization.

Dolphin Encrypt can encrypt multiple files with a single command. For example, DE2 E *.* encrypts (E = "encrypt") all files in the current subdirectory (the program asks you to enter the encryption key, and erases it from memory upon termination). To convert all files with .TXT suffix to encrypted files with .ENC suffix (leaving the original files unchanged) you would use the command DE2 E *.TXT *.ENC. File pathnames are supported and there is extensive error checking. Decryption is equally simple: Just use D for "decrypt" instead of E. If you wish to transmit encrypted data as email then Dolphin Encrypt can be told to output the encrypted data as text. There is no limit on the size, the type or the number of files. Files are normally compressed during encryption (smaller file size means faster transmission when sending encrypted files electronically). Screen output can be sent to a file or to a printer for a record of operations.

The encryption algorithm relies partly on the RSA Data Security, Inc., MD5 Message Digest Algorithm. Encrypted files appear even to special analysis tools as composed of random bytes. Dolphin Encrypt requires DOS 2.1 or higher. A printed manual clearly explains the use of the software with examples, and includes a detailed description of the encryption algorithm used.

Dolphin Encrypt Advanced Version

There is an enhanced version of Dolphin Encrypt which has all of the features described above, and also encrypts whole floppy disks. All common disk sizes are supported and are automatically recognized. To make an encrypted copy in drive B: of a disk in drive A: you would use DE2 E A: B:

Dolphin Encrypt Advanced Version has additional command line options, including the options of echoing or not echoing the key and of decrypting and displaying only (without writing any plaintext to disk). The Advanced Version can be run silently from another application program to encrypt or decrypt data. Dolphin Encrypt Advanced Version has a script language (with if-else-endif) which allows automation of frequently-performed, complex or conditional operations. The Advanced Version package also includes utility programs to read text files, compare files, purge files and wipe a disk clean; these can be called from scripts.

A decryption-only version (Dolphin Decrypt) is available separately. This can be sent to recipients of encrypted data who need only to decrypt data sent to them.

Dolphin Software, 4815 W. Braker Ln. #502, Austin, TX 78759

512-479-9208

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                Evaluating Encryption Software

How does one evaluate encryption software? Firstly it should be said that the evaluation is relative to one's needs. What is best for one person or organization may not be best for another. So the first step is to identify one's security needs: Which information needs to be protected? How well does it need to be protected? Is encryption of the data better than other possibilities (such as the traditional method of keeping the information in a safe)? Who will maintain the encryption keys and be responsible for performing the encryption and decryption? Who might attempt to gain access to the information, and what level of cryptanalytic skills might they possess? What methods of encryption are available, how much do they cost and what are their merits? Should different methods of encryption be used for different kinds of information?

Assuming that a software encryption process is needed, one that will encrypt files (and possibly floppy disks), how to decide among competing encryption software packages? The following questions need to be considered:

(i) Is the software compatible with the hardware and the operating system that it is to be used on?

(ii) How easy is the system to install? Does it require some hardware device to be installed, and if so, must the machine be opened? Can the software be installed on a hard disk, or must it be run from a floppy disk?

(iii) How easy to use is the software? How much training is required to use the software properly? Does it require a special level of technical expertise? Does the software provide any on-line help?

(iv) What kind of encryption key is required? Does the software allow long keys? Does it allow any typeable and displayable character in keys? Does it reject some keys as too weak? Is there an option to echo the encryption key to the screen during input (or not)?

(v) Will the software encrypt all kinds of files, and all sizes? Is there a single procedure to encrypt all kinds of files? Does the software allow encryption of multiple files in a single operation?

(vi) What encryption options does the software provide? Does it allow encryption or decryption without destroying the original data?

(vii) Does the software compress the data as well as encrypt it?

(viii) Is there a way to automate complex encryption operations, such as running the software from a batch file?

(ix) Is there provision for purging sensitive data which has been encrypted but which may still exist on the hard disk in plaintext form? Does the software handle this automatically?

(x) Does the software check for errors? Does it trap operator errors?

(xi) How fast is the software? Given the amount of data that will be encrypted and decrypted on a daily basis, is the operation likely to require one minute of computer time? One hour?

(xii) Is the documentation clear and comprehensible, and does it provide answers to questions?

(xiii) Does the software provide means for producing a permanent record of its operations, providing information about the files being encrypted or decrypted?

(xiv) What level of security does the software provide? Is it strong enough to withstand the level of cryptanalytic attack that encrypted data might on some occasion be subjected to? Do encrypted files exhibit any kind of pattern or structure which might assist cryptanalysis?

(xv) Is the cost of the software commensurate with its ease-of-use, reliability, and speed, and with the level of security it provides? Is a site license available?


TEALEAFS Draws/Paints Never-Ending Patterns
TEALEAFS .......   Just for Fun -- Version 2.1

Now With Terminate and Stay Resident Capability

Finger paint for the young at heart, relaxation for those tired eyes and stressed out mind, abstract an for the non-technical, or even pattern association. Use the TSR capability to hide your office computer screen while you are away.

TEALEAFS is a wonderful little (and inexpensive) program that draws/paints never-ending patterns on your computer screen. Kind of like that expensive screen saver you have been thinking about buying. You can specify your preference for the panem displays, which allows you to personally design your own custom display so that it is individual to your tastes and artistic insight.

Ask about our "AS IS" Promotional Item License ... Only $100.00

TEALEAFS makes a great, "ATTENTION GETTER", as a display in the window or behind the counter of any business........

Looking for a unique and inexpensive "PROMOTIONAL ITEM", for your business?? TEALEAFS makes a terrific "FREE, WITH PURCHASE", item, with each sale of your service or product, or as a "PROMOTIONAL HANDOUT OR GIVEAWAY ITEM", at that next business meeting or convention. Sales Representatives will find TEALEAFS an excellent Sales Call "ELECTRONIC BUSINESS CARD", by using the TEALEAFS diskette as a "LEAVE BEHIND ITEM", when making calls on new or existing clients.

TEALEAFS runs on the PC and PC Compatibles, DOS 2.1 or higher. A color monitor is recommended. No graphks card is required to get any one of the several extended ASCII displays. However, TEALEAF also contains a graphk display called the, "Timed Tunnel", which Users seem to like very much.

To run the TEALEAFS program simply insert the floppy diskette into your floppy diskett drive and at the DOS prompt on your screen type TEALEAFS and hit the Return or Enter key. The F1 key will display the many display options and menus available for you to custom design the display that you want.

To register your copy of TEALEAF and receive notices on updates and other software from Eugene L. Woods, PE/EE, please send $21.95 plus S5.00 for Shipping and Handling (U. S. Dollars), as a Check or Money Order (Drawn on a USA Bank) to:

Eugene L. Woods, PE/EE, PO Box 261267, San Diego, CA 92196 USA

619-549-4057


FONE800 Telecommunications Database Resource
FONE800

The Toll - Free Telecommunications Data Base Resource for the Information Age.

Do you want to reduce your Local and Long Distance telephone call costs? Would you like to shop by phone for free7 Need information on operating Appliances, status on auto recalls, access to major manufacturer customer services. Would you like to talk to Radio/TV Talk Show Hosts, place orders for products and services, get free Health Information, or Travel Information, or call Consumer Hotlines (Appliances, Auto, Investments, etc.), talk to Government Officials, etc., etc., Free of Toll - Charles??

Are you a Personal 800 Service User?

        A Professional in Telecommunacations?

        A Residential Telecommunications User?

        An Unlisted 800 Toll - Free Service User?

        A Business that wants to reduce telecommunications costs?

Then FONE800 is the Data Base Telecommunications program for you.

FONE800 COMES WITH A DATA BASE OF OVER 200 TOLL - FREE SERVICES, WHICH YOU CAN ADD TO, MODIFY, AND/OR DELETE.

PLACE YOUR CALLS RIGHT FROM THE SERVICE DISPLAY SCREEN -- KEEP forgetting where you put that little piece of paper with that 800 number on it? FONE800 COMES WITH A BUILT IN MEMO PAD SO YOU CAN KEEP TRACK OF YOUR CONVERSATIONS. "F" KEY TOGGLE ALLOWS YOU TO VIEW PAST (DATED, AND TIME STAMPED) CONVERSTATION NOTES AND TOGGLE BACK TO THE CURRENT NOTES FOR EACH TOLL -- FREE SERVICE. SUPER FAST DATA BASE WITH EXTENSIVE HELP FILES, HOT MENUS AND EVEN A TELCOMMUNICATIONS INFORMATION SECTION ON TOLL - FREE RESOURCES.

EVALUATION DISK: $5.00 (PLUS TAX)

REGISTRATION FEE: $29.95 (PLUS TAX)

NO COD OR CHARGE CARDS

ARE YOU A REGISTERED USER OF ANY SOFTWARE PRODUCT FROM EUGENE L. WOODS, PE/EE? IF YOU ARE, SEND YOUR CURRENT Personal Registration Code (PRC), and REGISTER FONE800 for Only $11.95, A SAVINGS OF OVER 60%!

Eugene L. Woods, PE/EE, PO Box 261267, San Diego, CA 92196 USA

619-549-4057


FONE V6.1 Telecom Service/Pricing/Database
FONE, Version 6.1, A Telecommunications Service, Call Pricing, Database Program

Major Upgrade: PC & PC Compatibles, DOS 2.1 or higher, hard disk required, initial space 1340K.

FONE is now INTERNATIONAL and can be used by any novice PC user who reads english and works with monetary units of dollars and cents (over 130 countries in the Reterence Data Base). NOW establish your own Personal Data Base for pricing calls to the USA or virtually any country to any other country. PROFESSIONALS and SERVICE BUSINESSES can now ADD a SURCHARGE on to their TelCo rates in their Personal Data Base to cover operating costs such as: labor, FAX hardware/materials, and operations/overhead costs 1Or the services they provide. Each surcharge can be different for each Personal Data Base entry. SAVE MONEY-MANAGE COSTS: FONE users now can call several telcom vendors, get the point-to-point TelCo rate data for several services, add the rate data to their Personal Data Base and conduct cost comparisons to the same point ot destination. Use the CALL SCREEN-RATE PREVIEW (F7 key) to establish the best service to use, BEFORE ever having to place a call or be charged. Import approximate sample rate data from the FONE Reference Data Base (AT8T, MCI, etc.) and see when is the best time to FAX or transmit that data file for the least cost. STANDARD, DISCOUNT 8 ECONOMY time periods are available in the FONE program for over 100 countries for several major TelCos. DAY, EVENING 8 NIGHT time periods for the USA are also avialable for several major TelCo vendors in the FONE Sample Rate section of the Reference Data Base. If and when the Personal Data Base is no longer current the user can update hours, rates, etc. by themselves. CALL SCREEN shows the approximate cost of a call in real time and includes an expanded memo pad area for call notes. Personal Data Base BROWSE-PLACE CALL screen displays "Date of Last Call" and if a "Memo is Present".

Fast CALL COST OVERVIEW screen for USA users has been updated with new Sample Rates, area codes, city codes, and country codes (Residential, Business, and Intemational). Just specify vendor and area code (Country Name OR Country Code for Intemational calls) to get an approximate cost of a call BEFORE IT IS PLACED. OVER 1200 US CITIES AND 130 COUNTRIES AVAILABLE FROM REFERENCE DATA BASE.

SAMPLE RATES

We have added a BOGUS TelCo vendor, ZZ WIDGETTelComCo, for Sample Rate data for LOCAL, CELLULAR, etc., and for services not available from the FONE Sample Data Base. This BOGUS data will get the user in the ball park and serves as a guide/example for the user to edit to the exact data of their telcom service of choice.

REPORTS

HARDCOPY - PRINT OUTS: CALL LOG REPORT: Who, When, How Long, Call Cost, and Sum of all Logged Call Costs To Date. PERSONAL DATA BASE ENTRY REPORT: Contact Name, Address, etc., plus a List of all Logged Call Costs (including sum of costs to date), Call Duration, Call Date, All Conversation Memos (each Dated/Time stamped). OVERVIEW REPORT(USA Users): Approximate cost of call before it is placed.

ON-DISK HELP/ TELCOM INFO

HELP FILE & TELCOM INFO FILE: Each file area has been greatly expanded and updated. New F1 key provides instant Help and guidance for each data entry field available to the user.

REGISTRATION FEE: $49.95 US Dollars, plus CalUomia Sales Tax.

Make Your Check Payable To: EUGENE L. WOODS, PEIEE; and Send Your Order To: Eugene L. Woods, PEIEE Engineering Systems Specialist; P. O. Box 261267 San Diego, CA 92196/ USA; TEL: 1-619-549-4057


Bureaucratic Buddy Adds Import Ability
PRENTICE HALL'S BUREAUCRATIC BUDDY ADDS IMPORT ABILITY FROM PAYROLL CHECKWRITING FOR EXPANDED REPORTING CAPABILITIES

ATLANTA, April 14 -- Prentice Hall Professional Software's Bureaucratic Buddy system now imports data from the mid-range and micro versions of the company's Payroll Checkwriting package. This gives users additional reporting capabilities for state unemployment magnetic media and laser forms.

Payroll Checkwriting tracks wage rates and hours and performs all payroll calculations, including all states and restaurant reporting. Bureaucratic Buddy is Prentice Hall's software that handles information returns, such as W-2's and 1099's, for preprinted, laser, and magnetic media filing.

The company's Payroll Checkwriting software transfers state and federal information to Bureaucratic Buddy. The transfer enhancement integrates payroll and tax information from Payroll Checkwriting with the required government forms produced by Bureaucratic Buddy.

Bureaucratic Buddy now handles laser printing of 941 Schedule B

In addition, Prentice Hall announced that Bureaucratic Buddy now produces the new 941 Schedule B on both preprinted and laser forms.

The system also produces W-2's, W-3's, 1099's, forms 1096,1098, 940, 940EZ, and state quarterly unemployment reports.

Bureaucratic Buddy and Payroll Checkwriting are available for IBM PC and compatible computers. Each requires a hard disk, 440K RAM, and DOS 3.1 or higher. The price of Bureaucratic Buddy is $149. Payroll Checkwriting is priced at $395.

Prentice Hall Professional Software is the leading supplier of tax, accounting, audit, and real estate management software. It is a unit of Simon & Schuster's Business, Technical, and Professional Group. Simon & Schuster is a Paramount Communications company 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.


DSP3210 Signal Analysis Board
DSP3210 SIGNAL ANALYSIS BOARD TARGETS DEMANDING TEST & MEASUREMENT APPLICATIONS

Marlborough, MA, March 1993 -- The Qw3210-SA Signal Analysis Board is a complete Data Acquisition and Digital Signal Processing Subsystem on a single 2/3 length PC-ISA plug-in board. Based on AT&T Microelectronics' new DSP3210 chip, the board combines a 32 MFLOP 32-bit floating-point processor with an "instrumentation quality" analog front-end. The board is designed for applications that require more horsepower than data acquisition boards with no on-board processor, including frequency analysis, high-order precision filtering, and custom algorithms. The DSP3210 chip was chosen because of its ease of programming and extensive DSP function library support.

Although suitable for general purpose applications and DSP algorithm development, the board is aimed primarily at industrial OEMs for test & measurement, instrumentation, and control applications. The high-performance Analog I/O subsection contains two low-noise channels (typically -90 dB THD), each with a 200 Ksample/sec 16-bit A/D and D/A, differential input programmable gain instrumentation amplifier, and optional programmable-cutoff analog filters. Sample rates are generated by a fully software programmable on-board source, or can be synchronized to an external clock or trigger signal. The board also has a generous amount of high-speed static RAM (136K bytes, expandable to over 2M bytes) and a high-speed dual-port RAM interface between the PC and DSP. Separate multiplexer boxes, situated outside the PC chassis, will be available to expand the number of analog input channels.

Innovative software included with the board lets users bypass much of the learning curve associated with using other DSP boards. A C Interface Library provides an easy way for users to write PC programs that interact with the board. The Library is compatible with DOS and Microsoft Windows 3.X, and includes DSP program downloading and execution, high-speed data transfer between the PC and DSP, debugging features, error reporting, and multiple board access. Quantawave's new RESMON resident monitor works in tandem with the Library. RESMON is a small but powerful memory-resident DSP program that does all necessary hardware setup, provides task switching services, an inter-task parameter passing mechanism, error reporting, data moving services, and a breakpoint mechanism. RESMON's user-extension feature easily accommodates custom user functions.

Also included is a unique Analog I/O Device Driver that provides "canned" data acquisition, while still taking advantage of the DSP3210's highly efficient DMA for input and output. The driver provides a "pure software interface" for the A/D and D/A front-end, and allows using the analog I/O channels without learning any of the hardware details. Using the driver is exactly like calling a routine from AT&T's DSP Function Library _ parameters are passed to set the sampling rate and I/O buffer locations. Flags indicate when input buffers are full, and when output buffers are empty. Double buffering is automatically implemented for maximum I/O throughput.

Quantawave resells AT&T's development software, including the $95 DSP Application Library, which allows users to quickly craft applications using their own routines combined with pre-written code. The library includes optimized assembly language source code for trigonometric, logarithmic, matrix, filter, adaptive filter, up/down sampling, windowing, and FFT routines. An included demo program (with source code) uses these routines to turn the board into a two channel, 100 KHz bandwidth spectrum analyzer that displays frequency data on the PC's screen.

DSP programs are written in the DSP3210's C-like assembly language using the AT&T Assembler/Linker, or in C, using their Optimizing C Compiler. The comprehensive User's Manual for the board includes extensive tutorial information for new DSP programmers. The Software Simulator allows code execution profiling and detailed examination of the internal features of the DSP. An  easy to use, menu-driven debug monitor is included with the board. Also, the popular D3BUG, C Source Code Debugger from Communication Automation and Control, Inc., is being ported to the Quantawave board and will be priced separately. AT&T's new VCOS (Visible Caching Operating System) is also being ported to the board. Digital filter coefficients are easily derived using our new QwFilter  software. Several popular general-purpose signal analysis programs are also adding support for the new board, including Signalogic's Hypersignal-Macro, Hyperception's Hypersignal- Windows, and Momentum Data System's DSPworks.

PRICING:

The DSP3210-SA board is available now at a single quantity price of $2995.00 US. A steep price discount curve starts at quantity 2 and can be as large as 60% off for quantities of 100 or above. Board pricing includes unlimited technical support and software mentioned above.

The AT&T DSP Application Library is $95.00, the DOS-based DSP3210 Assembler/Linker/Simulator package is $995.00, and the DOS-based DSP3210 C Compiler is $1995.00. QwFilter Digital Filter Coefficient Design Software is $195.00.

THE DSP3210 CHIP:

Although AT&T is primarily promoting the DSP3210 as a "multimedia solution," in reality it is an enhanced version of their popular 32-bit floating-point DSP32C processor, and is excellent for use in regular DSP applications. The chip's internal DMA capability has been enhanced, which translates to very efficient handling of analog I/O sample blocks on the Qw3210-SA. Also, the 3210 improves on the 32C by increasing the internal fixed-point register width from 24 to 32 bits. The address space has also increased from 24 to 32 bits. Do loops can now be interrupted, and a barrel shifter and programmable 32-bit timer have been added. The assembly language syntax is almost identical to the C Language, making it much easier to write optimized code for the DSP3210 than for other DSP chips.

SIDE BENEFITS OF THE DSP3210 CHIP'S APPLICATION IN MULTIMEDIA:

Although users of the Qw3210-SA need not pay any attention to VCOS or multimedia, there are some important side benefits due to the emphasis on multimedia. One major benefit is that Apple Computer and several large PC Clone manufacturers have announced new personal computers with the DSP3210 built onto the motherboard. This means there will be a large installed base of software development systems and a corresponding increasing pool of standard hardware-independent VCOS function modules.

Probably the largest benefit to Qw3210-SA users is that AT&T has brought their Bell Labs expertise to market, packaged in the form of VCOS multimedia modules. Currently available routines include various high-speed modem implementations, a JPEG Image Coder, an MPEG Audio Coder, a G.722 Audio Coder, DTMF generate/receive, HQ call progress detection, Caller ID handling, 16 and 24 Kbps Subband Speech Coders, CDXA Audio Coding, LD CELP Coding (AV254/G.728), an independent speech recognizer, text-to-speech synthesis, 3-D Graphics functions, and more. These routines come in bundled packages with ridiculously low license fees (on the order of $10 to $25 or less per bundle).

THE FIRST OF A LINE:

The Qw3210-SA is the first of a line of several variations on the same "core" board. One variant, the Qw3210-IP, will replace the analog I/O section with an Image Capture/Display section. Another follow-on board will leave an open area for prototyping user circuitry or for standard plug-in daughter modules.

Quantawave welcomes the opportunity to quote on custom variations of any standard product, or on completely custom designs.  We specialize in high speed analog I/O and multiple channel designs.  We have experience with all popular single-chip DSPs.

Quantawave, 530 Boston Post Rd East, Marlborough, MA  01752


Kodak Digital Camera for Infrared Imaging
KODAK ANNOUNCES DIGITAL CAMERA FOR INFRARED IMAGING

Washington, D.C., April 14 -- Eastman Kodak Company today introduced a new model of its award-winning DCS 200 professional digital camera. The new camera captures black and white images in the infrared range of the light spectrum.

"The camera fills a need in a number of specialized markets," said Dr. James Patton, general manager and vice president, Professional Imaging, U.S. and Canada region. Patton cited applications in medical, scientific, industrial and government markets. He also noted consistently positive responses to the camera's portability, resolution, and sharpness during trade testing.

"It enables us, essentially, to 'see' heat--its source, its direction of flow, its shape," he said, "and we'll be able to see it in real time and perform computer analysis immediately."

To expand the camera's light sensitivity into the infrared, Kodak engineers extended the sensitivity of the camera's imaging array to light wave frequencies up to 950 nanometers (10-9 meter). Human visibility ends at around 710 nanometers.

According to Kodak, the camera's sensitivity peaks in the range from 700 to 850 nanometers. Kodak high-speed infrared film captures light waves up 900 nanometers with peak sensitivity from 750 to 840 nanometers.

The Kodak DCS 200IR professional digital camera is available as a special order item at $12,995.

Eastman Kodak Company

343 State Street, Rochester, New York 14650 0519


Mac Technology for Aircraft Info Systems
Honeywell Adopts Apple's Macintosh Technology for Aircraft Information Systems

PHOENIX, Arizona--March 26, 1993 -- Apple Macintosh computer technology will be placed in the cockpit to drive information management systems for the commercial airline market under an OEM agreement announced today between Apple Computer, Inc. and Honeywell Inc.

Under the agreement, Honeywell, the industry leader in design and development of integrated avionics systems, will manufacture an Electronic Library System (ELS) incorporating a ruggedized avionics version of Apple's recently introduced Macintosh Quadra 800 high-performance personal computer. Honeywell's ELS is a state-of-the-art information management system designed to provide airline personnel--flight crew, cabin attendants and ground maintenance crew--with timely access to all the information necessary to operate and maintain an aircraft (excluding aircraft control).

The electronic library includes functions such as "hypertext" document retrieval of aircraft flight manuals, operational manuals, navigation charts and maintenance manuals.

"Honeywell and Apple are paving the way toward satisfying a growing aviation industry need for automated information systems that reduce the tens of thousand of printed pages of text and graphics contained in flight kits," said Don Schwanz, vice president of marketing for Honeywell's Air Transport Systems Division. "Combining our ELS with Apple's proven, easy-to-use computing technology gives our customers a cost-effective and timely way to update and revise flight information, thereby improving total operating efficiencies. This technology will also give our end users unparalleled applications versatility."

With the adoption of Macintosh technology, Honeywell plans to provide its airline customers with the capability to easily integrate and manipulate graphics, audio and video elements, and use commercially available off-the-shelf software. "This provides airborne software application compatibility with computer systems on the ground, and should help to incorporate more fully the aircraft into an airline's overall information management system," said Mark Anderson, Honeywell's lead engineer for the ELS project. "In effect, the airplane will become another node on the airline's information management network."

The agreement marks the first time Apple has licensed Macintosh computer technology under such an OEM agreement. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

"Apple believes Macintosh personal computing technology can add great value outside the realm of the traditional personal computer market," said Fred Forsyth, senior vice president and general manager of the Macintosh Systems Division. "This agreement with Honeywell marks the first step in our plans to extend our existing technology into new markets by working with selected OEM partners. There is clearly opportunity to leverage our powerful, yet easy-to-use technology in new ways and provide customized applications for specialized markets."

Honeywell's ELS will be based on the newest member of Apple's high-performance Macintosh Quadra line, the Quadra 800. A highly expandable system powered by a 33MHz Motorola 68040 microprocessor, the Quadra 800 offers a superior high-speed graphical computing solution with integrated high-speed networking and accelerated video architecture.

"We see the Macintosh platform--with its enhanced graphics, leadership in multimedia development capabilities, support for major networking standards and multi-platform, client-host systems integration solutions--as particularly well-suited for the highly interactive, graphical computing environment Honeywell seeks to implement in ELS," said Eric Sirkin, manager of OEM business for Apple. "Macintosh foundation technologies, such as QuickTime and WorldScript, make it possible for Honeywell to develop a very intuitive system that can access text, graphics and other visual information at the touch of a finger."

A number of key technologies influenced Honeywell's decision to select Apple for the ELS project. QuickTime 1.5, Apple's multimedia architecture for the Macintosh personal computer, provides users with the capabilities to cut, copy, and paste video, sound, and animation with the same ease of use that Macintosh customers have come to expect from working with graphics, data, and text. Apple's WorldScript technology makes it possible for developers to quickly localize applications for international customers. Both QuickTime and WorldScript are part of Apple's latest version of the Macintosh operating system software, System 7.1.

Honeywell has the opportunity to draw from emerging System 7 technologies such as the Apple Open Collaboration Environment, AppleScript, and QuickDraw GX, which are designed to extend the capabilities of System 7--providing new levels of ease of use and enabling new solutions in integrated communications, customization of the computing environment and automation of tasks.

Honeywell also said it plans to use Apple's next generation Macintosh computing platform, based on the PowerPC RISC architecture, in future generations of their ELS product.

Honeywell's Commercial Flight Systems Group, based in Phoenix, Ariz. is the recognized world leader in the design and development of integrated avionics systems. Major product lines include: Electronic Flight Instrument Systems; Flight Management Systems; Inertial Reference Systems; satellite communications (SATCOM) systems; collision avoidance and windshear avoidance systems; and global navigation systems. In addition to products and systems, Honeywell has become the leader in flight deck integration with programs such as the McDonnell Douglas MD-11, Boeing 777, Gulfstream IV and Dornier 328.

Headquartered in Cupertino, Calif., Apple Computer, Inc. is a leading supplier of computers to consumer, education, business and government markets worldwide. A recognized pioneer and innovator in the personal computer industry, Apple has been named first in customer satisfaction among business computer users in the United States for the past two years by J.D. Power and Associates.

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

408-996-1010


Mobile Computing Drives PC EXPO in NY 6/29-7/1
MOBILE COMPUTING DRIVES PC EXPO IN NEW YORK

PCMCIA and Exhibitors Display Latest Portable Technologies to Corporate Buyers at PC EXPO, June 29-July 1, at Javits Convention Center

(Fort Lee, NJ, April 2) -- The latest portable technologies, including laptop, palmtop and PDA computers, will be on display in the Mobile Computing Pavilion at the Eleventh Annual PC EXPO in New York. The trade show and conference will take place June 29-July 1, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York.

The Portable Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA), a nonprofit trade association and standards organization based in Sunnyvale, CA, is the cornerstone of the show's first Mobile Computing Pavilion. PC memory cards are peripheral devices that supply additional capabilities to computers, including memory, mass storage, LAN, fax/modem and wireless capabilities. The PCMCIA supports the growth of mobile computing by promoting memory card standards of small size, increased ruggedness and flexible operation.

Brendan McGuire, executive director of the PCMCIA, said that PC EXPO will provide an excellent showcase for the association to deliver their message to the show's audience of corporate volume buyers and major trade resellers.

"At PC EXPO in New York, the PCMCIA Gallery within the Mobile Computing Pavilion will demonstrate and display the widespread industry acceptance of the PCMCIA standard," said Mr. McGuire. "The Gallery will include both systems incorporating PCMCIA technology and a variety of PC cards ranging from cellular to wireless communication cards."

Portable technology will be displayed throughout the PC EXPO show floor, which spans three levels of the Javits Center. Many PC EXPO exhibitors are PCMCIA members, including: Advanced Micro Devices, Dell, Epson America, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Intel, Logitech, Lotus, Megahertz, NCR, Panasonic, Texas Instruments and Zenith Data Systems, to name a few.

The pavilion will be just one showcase at PC EXPO in New York, which will feature more than 800 exhibitors at this year's show. There will also be Multimedia and Windows/OS/2 Pavilions. The exhibits portion of the show will be complemented by the PC EXPO Seminar Series, featuring 80 seminars, including mobile computing topics.

PC EXPO in New York is produced by Bruno Blenheim Inc. (BBI), based in Fort Lee, NJ, the leading tradeshow management firm for computer technology and other business sectors. BBI also produces PC EXPO in Chicago, UNIX EXPO and Networks Expo in Boston. BBI will also produce NetWorld 93 Dallas, Oct. 5-7,1993. In 1994, the show will return to Dallas under its new name, Networks Expo. BBI is part of Blenheim Group PLC, the leading producer of shows and conferences worldwide, including 32 information technology 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


Build Your Own 386/386SX and Save, 2nd Edition
Build Your Own 386/386SX and Save a Bundle, 2nd Edition

by AUBREY PILGRIM

A computer book national bestseller

    -- updated for Windows and DOS 5

Step-by-step, illustrated assembly procedures

    -- no experience necessary

Includes information on upgrading to a 486SX

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--Windcrest has two words for people who think they can't afford high-power personal computing--Aubrey Pilgrim. He wrote the book on how to build a state-of-the-art PC at home for a fraction of the cost of a new store-bought system. Build Your Own 386/386SX and Save a Bundle, 2nd Edition, the latest in Pilgrim's bestselling Save a Bundle series, shows how anyone, regardless of their level of computer or electronics skill, can assemble their very own 80386-based microcomputer using inexpensive mail order parts.

Pilgrim's clear, step-by-step instructions and closeup photographs lead do-it-yourself PC builders through each phase of the assembly process, explaining not only where each component goes, but also what it does and how it does it. A revised edition of the national bestseller Build Your Own 80386 IBM Compatible and Save a Bundle, this volume now includes material on the new 386SX and 486SX microprocessors, as well as expert advice on how to build a computer that takes full advantage of DOS S and Windows 3.1. Pilgrim also furnishes complete, up-to-date information on component prices and availability, parts suppliers, troubleshooting techniques, peripherals, and software.

Aubrey Pilgrim has more than 30 years' experience in the electronics field, including 10 years as a quality control engineer for Lockheed Corporation. A member of the Computer Press Association, he has twice been named to MicroTimes' list of the 100 most influential people in the computer industry.

Build Your Own 386/386SX and Save a Bundle, 2nd Edition

Order No. 4089

Now Available

PAPER $18.95

ISBN 0-8306-3750-8

248pp.,7" x 10"

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


NeoPaint Version 2 Bitmap/Raster Graphics Pckg
OSCS Unleashes NeoPaint Version 2

April 14, 1993 -- You don't need to spend a fortune on expensive image editing or paint software (and the hardware required to run it) to get great results. OSCS Software Development is now shipping version 2.0 of its popular NeoPaint graphics program. The bitmap/raster graphics package features an easy to use interface and carries a list price of just $45.

Nearly every aspect of this program has been upgraded. Enhancements to the package include: new smudge and blend tools; gradient fills with selectable dithering; editable rectangle; ellipse, polygon and 3-D object tools; a configurable cloning brush; water color, charcoal and crayon tools; enhanced bezier curve editing; and new distort/skew, cropping, color similarity, full screen editing and transparent cut/paste functions. Zoom, clip art stamp, and palette/pattern have been strengthened, and printer support has been greatly expanded.

Although a VGA and a '286-based computer (or better) are recommended, NeoPaint will run on any IBM-PC or compatible with a minimum configuration which includes a hard disk, 640K of RAM and a Hercules compatible monochrome graphics card. The program also supports EGA, VGA and SuperVGA hardware at resolutions up to 1024x768. NeoPaint reads and writes files in the GIF, TIFF and PCX formats and allows you to work with images in 2, 16 and 256 colors/gray scales.

Working evaluation copies are available on most major BBS's. Registered users of NeoPaint versions 1.0 and 1.1 may upgrade free of charge by downloading the new version, or by obtaining upgrade disks from OSCS for $10, shipping and handling. The $45 retail package includes a manual and both 3.5" and 5.25" media. Site licensing is also available.

OSCS Software Development

354 NE Greenwood, Suite 108, Bend, Oregon 97701

(800) 545-1392;  (503) 389-5489 telephone

(503) 388-8221 facsimile;  (503) 383-7195 BBS


Resampling Stats Makes Statistics Easy
RESAMPLING SOFTWARE MAKES STATISTICS EASY

RESAMPLING STATS is a very simple (yet powerful) language for the radically different "new statistics" of resampling that has taken statisticians by storm in the past decade. Resampling replaces formulas and tables with intuitively-clear simulation -- suitable for both experts and non-statisticians. It is the method of choice for confidence limits, hypothesis tests, and other applied everyday problems in statistics and probability. See July 27, 1991 Science News for more information. RESAMPLING STATS runs on IBM (PC/XT/AT etc.) or MAC; program comes on one disk with user guide. 200 page introductory text also available. 5 / 93 Prices:  $195  ( $ 95 if paid by personal check, or if academic purchase), $35 student, $30 for the text.

Resampling Stats

612 N. Jackson St, Arlington, VA 22201-2212

703-522-2713;  Fax: 703-522-5846

Email (Internet): jsimon@umdacc.umd.edu


IDB Object Database Adds Features, Lower Price
IDB Object Database Adds Features, Lowers Price

Pittsburgh, PA - April 15, 1993, Persistent Data Systems, Inc. announces Version 2.0 of the IDB Object Database. IDB Version 2.0 offers more capabilities at a lower price. Now priced much lower than comparable object database products, IDB makes object database technology available to a much wider group of personal computer and Unix workstation software developers.

An emerging technology, object databases have been priced out of the reach of many software developers. IDB Version 2.0 for the first time brings a full object database within the budget of all software developers. The list price for a single developer license is $995 for Microsoft Windows and Apple Macintosh; $1500 for NeXTstep and Windows NT, and $4000 for HP and Sun. For sites needing more than one copy, IDB quantity discounts offer an unmatched per-seat price.

IDB Version 2.0 adds support for several new platforms: Apple Macintosh with MPW, Microsoft Windows with Borland C, Windows NT and NeXTstep 486. Other supported platforms include Microsoft Windows with Microsoft C, Apple Macintosh with THINK C, NeXT, Sun SPARC, HP Domain/OS and HP/UX. IDB will run stand-alone on any supported platform or may be used to share data across networks with any combination of supported platforms.

In addition to the textual schema language supported in previous releases, IDB Version 2.0 adds an interactive schema designer. The IDB Interactive Schema Designer provides a simple and intuitive interface that lets users more quickly and easily create new schema and examine and modify existing schema.

For developers looking to get started with object databases, the IDB Introductory Package gives an introduction to object databases in general and to IDB in particular. The IDB Introductory Package sells for $99 and is available for Microsoft Windows and Apple Macintosh.

Persistent Data Systems, Inc.

75 West Chapel Ridge Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15238

412-963-1843;   fax: 412-963-1846


Virtual Reality Environ. Educational Software
Knowledge Adventure Introduces First Virtual Reality Environment for Educational Software

Isaac Asimov's Science Adventure 2.0 and Animal Adventure to Ship on Diskettes or CD-ROM

SAN JOSE, CA., March 30, 1993 -- Knowledge Adventure, Inc., today introduced the first virtual reality environment for educational software. The company also introduced Isaac Asimov's Science Adventure Version 2.0 and Animal Adventure which will both feature virtual reality environments. Knowledge Adventure's virtual reality environment is designed for use on a standard personal computer and features the company's HyperScape technology, a combination of the company's proprietary compression and its interactive movie technologies.

Science Adventure Version 2.0 and Animal Adventure feature exquisite photographic-quality images, illustrations, full-motion video displayed in 256-color VGA and an original score in full stereophonic MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) sound, for use on a PC. Science Adventure Version 2.0 and Animal Adventure will be available on diskette or on CD-ROM.

"Imagine learning about science through full-motion video of scientific developments, animations and simulations where you control the experience," said Bill Gross, president and CEO of Knowledge Adventure, Inc. "Or, imagine entering and browsing around an animal's habitat to learn about the way various animals live. By combining these new virtual reality environments with our full-motion video technology, the world of animals and the world of science come to life in these two products.

"Using our proprietary compression technology and our interactive movie technology, both Science Adventure Version 2.0 and Animal Adventure allow you to navigate through a virtual reality environment, letting your curiosity be your guide through this learning tour. Normally, a virtual reality environment requires the power of a Silicon Graphics workstation along with sophisticated imaging software; however, all that is needed to display this virtual reality environment is a standard PC with a hard disk drive and a VGA monitor."

Science Adventure Version 2.0 covers mankind's landmark discoveries, experiments and inventions in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, technology, ecology and astronomy. Using its high resolution virtual reality environment, individuals of all ages can wander through different scientific exhibits and along different corridors to explore various areas of science. The product also includes interactive simulations and experiments such as: planetary motion showing earth and moon rotation around the sun, molecular motion; acoustic music and sound wave simulation, and a simulation contrasting Kelvin, Fahrenheit and Celsius temperature scales. Scientific discoveries and developments can also be searched geographically by clicking anywhere on the globe and instantly display the event that occurred at that place.

Animal Adventure is an exciting journey of discovery covering over 100 mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and sea creatures, birds and insects as well as a section on ecology and endangered animals. The animal's different characteristics are included such as species, senses, diet, predators, life span, habitat, range and social habits. Through the use of the virtual reality environment, individuals can enter and navigate around an animal's habitat as well as navigating around the animals themselves. Animal Adventure is appealing to young elementary-age children, yet it is interesting and informative for adults,

Both Science Adventure Version 2.0 and Animal Adventure will be available to consumers at major software stores, mass merchants, software catalogs and direct marketing organizations during the second quarter. The suggested retail price of either product is $59.95 for the diskette version and $79.95 for the CD-ROM version. Registered users of Knowledge Adventur's Science Adventure Version 1.0 will be notified of Version 2.0 and will be able to upgrade to this new version for $19.95, plus shipping and handling.

Science Adventure Version 2.0 and Animal Adventure run on IBM and compatible PCs, equipped with a VGA monitor and a hard disk drive. A mouse is recommended. Over eighteen popular sound devices are supported, though both products' sounds will play through the PC's speaker as well. Supported sound devices include: Sound Blaster or compatible device, Sound Blaster Pro and Sound Blaster 16ASP; Disney Sound Source; Adlib and Adlib Gold; ProAudio Spectrum 8 and ProAudio Spectrum Plus/16; Tandy SL/TL/1000RLX and Tandy TX/EX/HX/SX; Covox Speech Thing, Covox Soundmaster I and Covox Voice Master; Thunder Board; DigiSpeech DS201; ATI Stereo-FX; Microsoft Sound, and Lantastic Voice. Sound varies depending on the capabilities of the sound device.

Knowledge Adventure, Inc., headquartered in La Crescenta, California, develops and markets multimedia educational software products. Recently, the company's Dinosaur Adventure and Space Adventure were selected Best Elementary Education and Best Secondary Education Program, respectively, by the 1993 Software Publishers Association as part of its Excellence in Software Awards program.

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

(818) 542-4200;    Fax (818) 542-4205


AST Enters Pen Computing Market
AST RESEARCH ENTERS PEN COMPUTING MARKET

ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST "PENTOP" PEN NOTEBOOK COMPUTER

PenExec combines benefits of pen and traditional keyboard notebooks, Pre-installed software programs provide immediate usability

IRVINE, Calif., April 5, 1993--AST Research Inc., the pioneer in upgradeable personal computers, today entered the pen computing market with its launch of the new PenExec "PenTop" pen notebook computer. The launch is a direct result of AST's strategic alliance with TE Electronics of Tandy Corp. Built into a sleek 11.6" by 9.4" x 1.6", 5.5-pound black magnesium box, the PenExec is a hybrid between a traditional keyboard-driven notebook and a pen computer, affordably priced under $3,000.

"AST's proven knowledge of the portable industry was the foundation for our success with the award-winning PremiumExec and PowerExec notebook computers. We bring this industry savvy to the market with the new PenExec," explained Bret Berg, product marketing manager. "We believe the PenExec will bridge the gap between traditionally non-computer users and technology," Berg added.

The result of a strategic alliance with TE Electronics, ASTs PenExec is based on advanced pen technology from GRiD Systems Corporation. "AST brings numerous benefits to the table, including an extended life battery that provides up to three hours of continuous computing time; support for PCMCIA; hard drives up to 200MB; and RAM system expansion up to 20MB. A major benefit to the PenExec buyer is AST's renown support and service," Berg explained. In addition, AST's expansive reseller channel makes it easy to purchase the PenExec, options and accessories.

"AST has found the way to bring pen computing to the masses. By providing an immediately usable solution, with pre-installed Microsoft software, AST's PenExec delivers the promise of pen computing to a whole new generation of computer users, letting them do their work in new ways, in new places," said Richard Tong, Director of Windows Marketing at Microsoft Corporation.

Because the PenExec comes standard with pre-installed programs for both pen and keyboard computing, it is an immediately usable solution. Pre-installed software includes: DOS 6.0, Windows 3.1 and Windows for Pen Computing, all from Microsoft Corporation. The PenExec is compatible with an Windows 3.1 applications and takes advantage of new and emerging pen applications.

In a separate announcement, Slate Corporation has announced AST Pen Essentials, a package of pen software applications and accessories that deliver the benefits of the pen to AST PenExec users. The package includes four pencentric applications: LooseLeaf Notetaker, Delrina WinFax Pen, Day-Timer Pen Scheduler and PenBook Business Reference Pages. These software solutions are bundled together with a custom carrying case, spare electronic pen, screen cleaner and spare pen batteries. A demo version is pre-installed.

The PenExec also comes with a demo version of PenWare's PenCell spreadsheet, an application optimized for use with pen-based systems running Windows for Pen Computing. PenCell permits values, text and formulas to be entered directly into cells with the pen and allows the user to annotate the spreadsheet with "handwritten" notes. PenCell is compatible with Excel (.XLS) and Lotus (.WK1) file formats, enabling it to serve as an ideal companion to common desktop spreadsheet packages.

The PenExec's screen acts as both display and data input device. Beneath the hinged surface is a high-resolution, 400 dpi digitizer which is activated by the unit's cordless pen. The backlit monochrome VGA screen boasts resolution of 640 x 480 pixels with 64 gray scales and measures 9.5 inches diagonally for viewing or as a writing surface. Backlighting makes it equally comfortable for use in either format

Combining the power of the Intel 386SL 25MHz chip with AST's legendary reputation for compatibility and expandability, the PenExec solves the needs of many notebook computer users, regardless of their ability to use a keyboard. The PenExec comes standard with a 120MB or 200MB hard disk drive, one Type II PCMCIA slot and one external 3.5-inch 1.44MB floppy disk drive.

The PCMCIA slot lets users take advantage of the many communications and memory expansion solutions available today and into the future. AST offers a variety of PCMCIA solutions, including 2400 and 9600 fax/data modems and LAN adapters for Ethernet and Token Ring connections. The PenExec comes standard with 2MB or 4MB of system RAM (depending on model) and is upgradeable to 20MB and features AST's Flash ROM BIOS for easy field upgradeability via electronic bulletin board or diskette.

Featuring a keyboard with 79 keys, the PenExec has a solid touch comparable to traditional desktop keyboards. Function keys are conveniently laid out across the top of the keyboard, and the layout includes an embedded numeric keypad. The lightweight, cordless pen lets the user write or draw in pen-based applications or navigate standard Windows programs, much like a mouse or trackball. A tether cord is provided for on-the-move users.

"The PenExec features sophisticated handwriting recognition capabilities, virtually unheard-of in this price range. The pentop is especially useful in calendar/scheduling programs or any type of chart or diagram. The user can simply write/draw it in and it automatically converts to text," Berg said.

The PenExec is powered by an enhanced NiCAD removable battery, which provides up to three hours of uninterrupted computing. The auto-sensing external AC adapter provides fast 1.5 hour charge capability.

Options available for the PenExec include: automotive adapter; extra AC adapter; expansion memory in increments ranging from 2MB to 18MB; 200MB hard drive; specially designed carrying case; and extra batteries, pens and printer cables.

The PenExec joins AST's PowerExec family of award-winning notebook computers, winners of PC Laptop Magazine's 1992 Newcomer of the Year award and Portable Computing's 1993 Product Excellence award AST has targeted users who require a cost effective, fully-functional notebook that provides unsurpassed ease of use and increased productivity for a variety of business applications, including word processing, communications and personal productivity.

ExeCare Plus Provides 48-Hour Repair Service

The AST PenExec portable computers are covered by a free one-year warranty. The standard ExeCare Plus program includes 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. Onsite maintenance is available anywhere within a 50-mile radius of more than 250 authorized AST on-site service locations. Toll-free customer service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week

Company Background

Recently ranked number 431 on the Fortune 500 list of America's largest industrial companies, AST Research Inc. had the third largest market share of Intel-based personal computers sold through the U.S. dealer channel during the calendar year 1992. Revenues for calendar year 1992 totaled more than $1.1 billion.

AST's product lines include the Premmia, Bravo, Advantage!, PowerExec, Premium SE and Manhattan SMP allowing users to choose from a full range of price and performance options. The company is represented in 100 countries and operates 34 international subsidiaries and sales offices.

The company reported record sales of $944.1 million in fiscal year 1992 ended June 27, 1992, compared to sales of $688.5 million for fiscal year 1991. AST Research corporate headquarters is located at 16215 Alton Parkway, P.O. Box 57005, Irvine, Calif. 92619-7005. Telephone: (714) 727-4141, (800) 876-4278. Fax: (714) 727-9355.


AST Moves Up on FORTUNE 500 List
CONTINUED STRONG PERFORMANCE MOVES AST UP ON THE FORTUNE 500

AST ranks No. 367 in a year when most companies showed lower profits

IRVINE, Calif, April 2, 1993 -- AST Research was ranked the 367th largest U.S. industrial corporation by FORTUNE magazine this week in its 1993 FORTUNE 500 listing of the nation's top 500 industrial companies, moving up 64 places in its second year on the list. AST also ranked 167th in profits among the FORTUNE 500 industrial corporations, in a period when many companies showed lower profits.

Continued growth, outpacing the industry in general, propelled AST up on the FORTUNE 500 list at a time when many technology companies saw a drop in revenues. AST also ranked in the top 20 of the fastest growing companies, ranking the 18th largest increase in sales of the Fortune 500. AST is now the second largest Orange County, Calif. corporation on the Fortune 500 and is the only Orange County corporation to make a positive move on the 1993 list.

AST continued to record increased demand for its systems, despite the sluggish U. S. economy and fierce competition in the personal computer industry. The company enjoyed a 36.5 percent increase in fiscal 1992 sales and a 5.8 percent increase in profits over its fiscal 1991 figures.

"Outperforming our 1992 ranking is particularly gratifying in light of the economic and market conditions," commented Safi Qureshey, AST president and chief executive officer. "Our strong presence in the U.S. and foreign markets, combined with our dedication to offering leading-edge products and excellent customer satisfaction through our resellers, has paid off in terms of growth for 1992."

The FORTUNE 500 is based on reported fiscal 1992 sales. FORTUNE based AST's ranking on sales of $951.1 million for the fiscal year ended June 27, 1992. Net earnings increased to $68.5 million in fiscal 1992.

AST's products have received recent awards for outstanding performance, upgradeability and useability from industry trade publications including BYTE, Infoworld, PC LapTop, PC Magazine, PC World, Portable Computing and Windows.

AST Research Inc. had the third largest market share of Intel-based personal computers sold through the U.S. dealer channel during the calendar year 1992. Revenues for calendar year 1992 totaled more than $1.1 billion.

AST's product lines include the Premmia, Bravo, Advantage!, PowerExec, Premium SE and Manhattan SMP, allowing users to choose from a full range of price and performance options. The company is represented in 100 countries and operates 35 international subsidiaries and sales offices.

AST Research corporate headquarters is located at 16215 Alton Parkway, P.O. Box 57005, Irvine, Calif 92619-7005. Telephone: (714) 727-4141, (800) 876-4278. Fax: (714) 727-9355.


Super VGA Graphics Programming Secrets

by STEVE RIMMER

A one-stop illustrated guide and reference for C and assembly language programmers

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--Super VGA is the new industry standard in computer display equipment. That's why programmers and others interested in the workings of this powerful graphics mode will want to read Super VGA Graphics: Programming Secrets. Like most display hardware, SVGA is poorly documented the available information is highly technical and lacks practical instruction. But this book by computer graphics specialist Steve Rimmer changes all that.

Rimmer's step-by-step guidance and ready-to-use source code will allow readers to generate and work with graphics files that take full advantage of the SVGA file format. Programs are included that demonstrate how to:

* Access super VGA modes

* Work with fonts

* Use clickable buttons

* Print super VGA graphics

* Draw lines and text

* Manipulate mouse input

* Write a super VGA arcade game

The enclosed disk includes Desktop Paint 256 and Desktop Paint 16, Alchemy Mindworks, Inc.'s bestselling shareware applications.

About the Author:

A writer, programmer, and computer consultant, Steve Rimmer is the author of Windcrest's bestselling Bit-Mapped Graphics--2nd Edition, Supercharged Bitmapped Graphics, and Graphical User Interface Programming.

Windcrest/McGraw-Hill

Super VGA Graphics: Programming Secrets

Order No. 4413

Available: April 1993

Paper $36.95 ISBN 0-8306-4428-8

Hard  $49.95 ISBN 0-83064427-X

592 pp., 100 illus., 7" x 10"

3.5" disk included

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


Accolade Signs Speed Racer for New Games
ACCOLADE SIGNS FAVORITE CARTOON PERSONALITY "SPEED RACER" FOR COMPUTER AND VIDEO GAMES

SAN JOSE, Calif.-April 13, 1993--Accolade, a leading publisher of computer and video games, today announced that it has signed an exclusive, worldwide long-term licensing agreement with Speed Racer Enterprises. Under the terms of the agreement, Accolade will develop and publish video games and computer software across all leading platforms based-on the Classic Speed Racer animated series as well as the New Adventures of Speed Racer animated series. The license includes the use of the characters, vehicles utilized in both series, series footage, character voices, and theme songs.

The computer and video games will focus primarily on the racing aspects of the series, utilizing the famous Mach 5 and other vehicles. Players will be able to select from a number of scenarios based on the cartoon episodes, with the goal of winning races. The games will also incorporate the personalities of the major characters including Speed Racer, his spunky girlfriend Trixie; his closest friend and ace mechanic Sparky; his little brother Spridle; the mischievous monkey Chim Chim; Speed's father and designer of the amazing Mach 5, Pops Racer; and the mysterious Racer X.

"Millions of fans have been rooting "Go, Speed Racer, Go" for nearly a quarter of a century," stated Charlotte Taylor Skeel, Accolade's Director of Licensing. "Soon Speed Racer fans everywhere will enjoy playing computer and video games based on this popular cartoon series."

Accolade plans to release games based on the classic version of Speed Racer in the fourth quarter for IBM PC and compatible computers and for the Sega Genesis and in the first quarter of 1994 for the Super Nintendo. Games based on the New Adventures of Speed Racer will follow.

The Speed Racer series became an instant hit when it first appeared on American television in 1967. The series went on to become one of the most successful cartoons ever shown. As the main character, Speed Racer is a smart, courageous, resourceful teenage race car driver competing in dangerous races throughout the world in his fast and fabulous Mach 5 racing machine. The classic "Speed Racer" series is now airing on MTV and "The New Adventures of Speed Racer," is slated to air in syndication this fall. There are currently more than 100 Speed Racer licensed items available from 23 licensees.

Accolade, a privately held company with headquarters in San Jose, Calif., is a leading developer, publisher and distributor of entertainment software for personal computers and leading video game machines.

Accolade, 5300 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95129

408-985-1700;  Fax: 408-246-1053


New SyDOS PUMA Pounces Onto Scene
NEW PUMA POUNCES ONTO SCENE

SyDOS Introduces New 3.5" 105MB Removable Cartridge Disk Drive for PC Market

Now Get Faster, Higher Performance and Greater Capacity in a Smaller Portable Storage System

BOCA RATON, FL (April 14, 1993) SyDOS, a division of SyQuest Technology, has added a third state-of-the-art product to it's PUMA series of external removable cartridge disk drives. The new 105MB drive is the first 3.5" external removable cartridge disk drive on the market and joins the PUMA 44MB and 88MB 5.25" subsystem product's, all of which employ Winchester technology, and include a high-performance parallel port adapter for ease of installation.

Called the PUMA 105, the new removable cartridge disk drive incorporates SyQuest removable technology into a smaller 3.5" size with 105MB incremental storage. Use of Winchester technology allows the PUMA 105 to achieve high-performance average seek times of 14.5 msec, 100,000 power-on hours MTBF and a 64K buffer. The subsystems can be used with virtually any DOS- or Windows-based desktop, laptop or notebook PC.

Linda Haury, vice president of marketing notes, "The PUMA 105 offers the performance of a fixed 3.5" hard disk drive at a comparable price with the additional benefits of removability and portability.

Provides Unlimited Capacity

"It's the increased megabyte capacity and 3.5" drive size that's significant." Haury adds. This product marks the first time SyDOS has offered an external removable cartridge disk drive with greater than 100MB capacity in a 3.5" form factor," she explains. "This is especially important for portable computer users, who do not have the option to install an internal drive or who require true storage portability."

"With the growing demand for more and more storage, removable drives offer an ideal, inexpensive solution for small business and home office users," she continues. "Instead of buying another fixed drive, which is limiting in its storage capabilities, you can use as many removable cartridges as you need for unlimited capacity."

Parallel Port Offers Plug-and-Play Installation

The PUMA 105 comes with a parallel port interface utilizing a device driver to manage communications between the PC and the drive for easy plug-and-play installation. Installation involves simply plugging the cable into the parallel port of the computer and into the SyDOS drive and loading the installation software.

The parallel port adapter also includes a printer "pass-thru" to allow simultaneous connection of the drive and a printer to the same parallel port. In that respect, no functions are lost, and there's no need to switch cables back and forth.

Back-up Made Easy

The PUMA 105 plays an important role in providing easy back-up. With the integrated parallel port users can back-up all the computers in the office -- just carry it from computer to computer. And, there is no special software to learn, simply use DOS commands. The PUMA 105 can back-up 105MB of data in approximately 10 minutes.

The user can store programs or files on separate cartridges, making it easy to organize their work by project, application or by individual users. In addition, SyDOS removable cartridges are ideal for those applications where security and confidentiality are important.

Reliability, Portability and Battery Powered

Enhanced portability ranks high on the list of advantages to the new PUMA product, which features a built-in carrying handle and optional battery pack with up to 5 hours of continuous use. And, the PUMA 105's 3.5" diskette is small enough to fit into a shirt pocket. Based on SyQuest's proven technology, The SyDOS PUMA 105 utilizes the same reliable industry-standard Winchester technology found in all fixed disk drives. In addition, SyDoS backs its promise of reliability with the best warranty in the industry: a two-year warranty on the drive and a five-year warranty on the cartridge.

Competitively priced

With a suggested list price of $1,119, and additional 105MB cartridges at a list price of $299, the PUMA 105 provides fixed-drive performance with the convenience of portability and removability at a reasonable cost. The PUMA 105 comes complete with the drive, SyQuest 105MB data cartridge, it's own power supply, an integrated parallel port adapter with printer "pass thru", installation software, cables, and step-by-step instructions for quick, easy installation.

SyDOS -- Committed to Excellence

SyDOS, headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, was formed in 1991 to distribute removable cartridge disk drives to the PC and compatibles marketplace and is a division of SyQuest Technology. Committed to providing the best high-performance removable storage product's, the company manufactures a full line of removable cartridge disk drives and Host Bus Adapter Kits for the PC and compatibles marketplace. Drive subsystems currently are available in 5.25" 44MB and 88MB capacities in internal, external and dual configurations. SyDOS also recently announced the MARLIN 105i, an internal 3.5" 105MB removable cartridge disk drive with a 14.5ms average seek time and 16-bit IDE adapter. The PRO*NOTE, also recently announced, is a 2.5" 42MB external removable cartridge disk drive targeted at the notebook and laptop marketplace. In addition, the company entered the CD-ROM market with the Personal CD, a low-cost CD-ROM drive which may be purchased as a stand-alone product or bundled with CorelDRAW version 3.0 software.

The SyDOS product line is sold through major resellers, distributors and superstores worldwide.

Parent company SyQuest Technology, headquartered in Fremont, California, manufactures removable cartridge disk drives predominantly for the Macintosh market and sells through OEMs and systems integrators. SyQuest has shipped over 800,000 disk drives and over 3 million data cartridges since its incorporation in 1982. The company commands over 90 percent of the removable hard-cartridge disk drive marketplace. SyQuest is a public company (NASDAQ symbol: SYQT).

SyDOS, 6501 Park of Commerce Blvd, Ste 110, Boca Raton, FL 33487

407-998-5400;  fax: 407-998-5414


Sybase Opens New Mass. Customer Support Center
SYBASE OPENS NEW CUSTOMER SUPPORT CENTER IN BURLINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS

Global Client/Server Software Company Enhances its Presence on the East Coast

BURLINGTON, MA, April 13,1993 -- Sybase, Inc., a leading vendor of client/server software and services for building on-line, enterprise-wide applications, today announced the grand opening of its new support center in Burlington, MA. Sybase is committed to building a world-class customer support organization, and the new Burlington facility plays a key role in the realization of the goal. The new facility will house technical support, engineering, professional services, and telesales for the Emeryville, CA-based company, increasing the company's presence on the East Coast and better enabling responsiveness to customer needs worldwide.

The new 70,000 square foot support center, at 77 South Bedford Street, Burlington, MA, is located in New England's high technology corridor. Sybase executives believe that the proximity of Burlington's support personnel will provide an on-site support advantage for customers on the East Coast.

Sybase now has eight support centers worldwide, anchored in Emeryville, CA with direct access to development and support engineering. Sybase currently supports over 6,000 customers worldwide and the Burlington facility is expected to eventually address 50% of this total volume for North America. Staffing for Sybase operations in the Massachusetts area have quadrupled over the past year, helping to invigorate the local economy and greatly increasing the company's local presence and investment. Sybase customers in the New England area include; Fidelity Investments, The Norton Company, Dunn & Bradstreet, and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute.

Taylor Pohlman, vice president of Sybase worldwide service and support, commented, "The Burlington facility represents the extensive commitment Sybase is making to customer support. It is a world-class operation that is ideally situated to provide direct and efficient access to customers on the East Coast. The Boston area offers Sybase the advantage of a large pool of technically-trained personnel from which to draw. We are very excited about the opening of this facility and fully expect it to play a critical role in the success of our support program." Sybase, Inc.

Sybase, Inc. (NASDAQ: SYBS) develops and markets a leading family of client/server-based software products and services for on-line, enterprise-wide applications. Sybase's integrated family of software includes servers, tools, connectivity, and administration/control products that provide complete desktop to mainframe solutions. Headquartered in Emeryville, CA, Sybase markets its products worldwide through its direct sales force, telesales, distributors, OEMs, VARs, and Systems Integrators.

Sybase Inc, 6475 Christie Ave, Emeryville, CA 04608

510-596-3500;  Fax: 510-658-9441


Logical Operations Training Materials Newsletter
Commands & Prompts - Spring 1993 News Update

from Logical Operations

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How the Skills Evaluation Series Can Help You Get the Most Out of Your Training Dollar

Determining competency and the need for training

In today's economy, many companies are "rightsizing," eliminating positions and cross-training employees to perform tasks across different positions. With the expectation that employees will be able to perform tasks different than those they were hired to do, many employees are being retrained to gain the necessary skills. Before retraining can occur, however, the areas in which employees are competent and the areas in which they need training must first be identified. The Skills Evaluation Series can be an important tool for identifying this training path.

What is SES and how can it be used?

Logical Operations Skills Evaluation Series (SES) is a collection of hands on tests that measure computer software skills. Each evaluation contains 20 multiple-choice questions covering basic skills and knowledge in a particular software package. Individuals being evaluated use the actual software and files provided to answer the questions.

The Skills Evaluation Series can be used in two ways to screen students scheduled for training. For introductory classes, students can be screened out of a training class if they attain a specific score on the evaluation. For advanced classes, students can be evaluated to establish that they possess the basic skills on which the training will build. By using the SES in these two ways, companies can save substantial amounts of training dollars by ensuring that those students who get training really need it, and that they have the necessary skills to benefit from it.

Measuring the results of training

Companies spend billions in training dollars every year; however, the training's effectiveness is typically not evaluated. Reliable measures of training effectiveness are critical to the justification of training budgets. Evaluation can encompass a wide range of measurements. Identifying the level of evaluation that meets your needs is the first step in developing an evaluation process. In his book Evaluation of Training, Kirkpatrick (1967) identified four levels of training evaluation: reaction, learning, behavior, and results.

Reaction evaluations assess how well students liked various aspects of the training. These are often referred to as "smile sheets" and may include questions on the content of the class, the training materials used, the instructor, and the training facility. Learning evaluations assess whether or not the trainee has gained the skills or knowledge taught in the training. Behavior evaluations assess whether the skills and knowledge learned in training are being transferred to the tasks performed on the job. Results-oriented evaluations assess the impact of the training on the overall productivity, and ultimately the bottom line, of the organization. This type of evaluation attempts to answer the question "Are there cost-related results or behaviors that can be directly linked to the training?"

The Skills Evaluation Series is a learning evaluation. Skills evaluations, administered at the conclusion of the training day, can provide concrete evidence that students possess the skills and knowledge taught during the training. (In order to be sure that it was the training that caused a change in knowledge or skills, you should administer a pre-training instrument to get a benchmark score.) Students who have not yet mastered specific skills can be targeted for remedial training. For organizations that want to assess transfer of skills back to the job, evaluation at the conclusion of training is important for ensuring that the employees actually learned the skills involved.

The SES and your bottom line

As productivity and bottom-line results become critical to overall company financial health, management is increasingly focusing on all expenditures. These include money spent on training employees, whether to upgrade their existing skills or to teach them a new set of skills. The need to justify training dollars has become crucial to companies everywhere. As industry steps up to this task of justification, the Skills Evaluation Series will be a valuable tool for your training organization.

If you haven't evaluated SES before, or saw it in the past and want to evaluate it again, please contact your Marketing Representative.

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Fast Facts:

American Express Accepted Here

Imagine yourself at an Antarctic outpost. Your training class is going well, until the neighboring team of scientists makes a surprise visit during the lunch break. More manuals are needed; no purchase orders are in sight. Thankfully, you remember that Logical Operations now accepts American Express, in addition to Visa and MasterCard. Your corporate or individual card saves the day, and Logical Operations gains one more satisfied customer.

We're open late

Our Customer Service and Shipping departments are now open from 8:00 am ET to 7:00 pm ET, making it more convenient for our West Coast (and East Coast working late-night) customers to contact us. Remember, call toll-free 1-800-456-4677 in the United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico. Outside these areas, call us at 716-482-7700.

New Policy on Returns

Customer Service accepts merchandise returns only under certain circumstances. Therefore, before you attempt to return product, call Customer Service to determine whether or not your product meets the criteria for a merchandise return. When your return is approved, Customer Service will issue you a return authorization number (RA #) and give you instructions for making your return. A fee equal to 10% of the invoiced amount is incurred for 1-50 books; for 51-100 books, the fee is 20% of the invoiced amount. Please remember that we cannot accept a return if the value of the return would exceed 4% of your book purchases for the past quarter.

Marketing Representatives are no longer designated to approve returns. Contact either Gayle Shalvoy or Laura Barrows in Customer Service for more information.

Sign 'em up!

Attractive class-attendance certificates are now available from Logical Operations. The 8 1/2 x 11 certificates are printed on a quality vintage gloss paper with teal and black borders and feed easily through a laser printer. There is space provided for training center name and location, instructor name, student name, student company, and date. Certificates are bundled in packages of 10 for $10. To place an order, call Customer Service at 800-456-4677 or 716-482-7700, and specify part # 80-450-00.

What's your opinion?

Logical Operations is considering changing the title of the Understanding Network Fundamentals course to Networking Orientation. Some students and trainers have been intimidated by the original title. It's a great course; it's ideal for a wide audience and a real bargain for a networking course.

If you have an opinion about this potential change, we'd like to hear it! Please call Tom Thomas at (716) 482-7700.

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Recycling reduces waste in the warehouse

A little over a year ago, Logical Operations ran its distribution operation like many companies when it came to supplies management: boxes that our vendors used to ship products to us went into the trash, and we used new boxes to ship products to our customers.

Since we have applied quality control and cost-containment measures to the process, and since we have begun adhering to new environmental requirements, a number of things have changed. We now provide new boxes with the Logical Operations logo to all of our primary vendors so they can reuse the boxes in shipping items back to us; we specify that the packing materials used by our vendors be recyclable so the materials can be reused in outbound shipments; and we work closely with vendors to recycle all materials possible between vendors and our warehouse. Further, we try to purchase original shipping products made of partially or completely recycled materials. The materials we can't recycle internally due to quality concerns, we now recycle through city and county agencies.

Overall, we have reduced waste by nearly 85% for all warehouse distribution materials.

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Innovative New Internetworking Course

Training Course Provides Foundation for Understanding the Internetworking Puzzle

With the rising needs, and associated challenges, of connectivity and internetworking, Logical Operations has responded with a course that takes you through the evolution of the network industry and beyond. Designed for technicians, salespeople, information managers, and others who need to increase their understanding of internetworking and related information, this  NetWare course provides the foundation for understanding the "principles of internetworking."

Principles of Internetworking is a three-day exposure to network architectures, connectivity, interoperability, networking technologies, OSI standards, de facto standards, and network operating systems. During the course, you will learn how information is passed through your network. You will also learn about devices that provide connectivity, and you will "brainstorm" strategies for achieving interoperability.

Because this course was developed by using the Logical Operations 'minds-on' model, no computer equipment is necessary. Students participate in group discussions, role playing, and other "brainstorming" activities.

Purchasing and Pricing Information

An initial purchase of the Principles of Internetworking course is a Starter Package, which includes: one Trainer's Guide, overhead transparency masters, one Student Manual, and Instructor Hotline support. Priced at $300, quantity discounts are available. Additional Student Manuals are $150 each. Call Customer Service at (716) 482-7700 or 800-456-4677 for evaluation and ordering information.

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Trainer's Soapbox

Tips and Tricks for teaching a large group

At Logical Operations, our computer classes vary in size from one-on-one sessions to large seminars. Our training department has compiled the following list of tips and tricks you can use when you work with larger groups. We hope some of these ideas will be useful to you.

* Move around the classroom as much as possible, checking in with students, watching their screens, and dealing with any problems they may have. At times, try teaching from the back of the room.

* Ask students to let you know how they're doing. Encourage them to speak up if they're confused.

* "Chunk" your teaching: present concepts or explain a procedure and then let people work at their own pace for a while. Use these built-in pauses to assist students who need help and to let students interact with each other.

* Get students participating in the class-- keeping them involved helps them to stay with you.

* Learn and use the names of "key" students--the ones who make a lot of eye contact or who ask a lot of questions.

* Talk individually to students before class or during breaks to establish rapport.

* Assess the group's knowledge and ability at the beginning of the day. Ask general questions that can be answered with a show of hands. For example, "Who's used a computer before?" or "Who has experience with this software?"

* If you can, move the experienced users and faster learners to the back of the room and the newer users to the front. You'll be in closer touch with the new users and the faster learners will have more freedom to work ahead and explore.

* Encourage students to save their questions for the end of sections, and to direct their questions to you, not each other.

* Periodically, tell students what page you're on in the manual to provide checkpoints for the group.

* Come prepared with extra practice activities and problems. You can use them to keep the advanced students busy if they get ahead of the group.

* Come prepared with ways to either expand or compress the training day. Find out which topics are most important to the class and which you can downplay.

Training a large group can be a great experience for both you and your students!

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Foundation, Master, and Transition Series: how to spot them

Let's take a look at the new product categories for Logical Operations training materials.

Foundation Series

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

Foundation Series products are designed for trainers teaching introductory courses. The depth of instructor and student support enables even first-time trainers to give beginning users a working knowledge of the software. Our Starter Packages provide detailed Student Manuals along with in-depth instructors' materials. Each course includes:

* One complete Instructor's Kit with Instructor's Manual, Student Manual, and overheads

* 10 Student Manuals with practice units and data disks

* Toll-free Instructor Hotline support

* Instructor's Kit upgrades for $75

As one trainer put it, "these materials helped me to provide comprehensive and professional training from my very first day in the classroom."

Master Series

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

Master Series products are written for trainers teaching intermediate, advanced, and specialty courses. Our Starter Packages provide comprehensive Student Manuals along with streamlined instructors' materials, thus offering a cost- and timesaving alternative for advanced trainers. Each course includes:

* One Trainer's Guide

* One Student Manual with data disk

* Toll-free Instructor Hotline Support

* Overhead-transparency masters, in certain cases

To quote an experienced trainer, the Master Series products "get right to the point (they're) just what I want."

Transition Series

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

Transition Series products are written with a different focus: they are designed to bring experienced users up to speed on software upgrades. These users are eager to learn the new capabilities of the software and to use those capabilities back on the job. Our Starter Packages contain an abbreviated Student Manual that focuses on new features, and streamlined instructors' materials. Each course includes:

* One Trainer's Guide

* One "new features" Student Manual with data disk

* Toll-free Instructor Hotline Support

We work closely with the leading software manufacturers. When your software is upgraded, you'll be equipped to provide training on that software within weeks of its release.

For more information, call Customer Service at 800-456-4677 or 716-482-7700.


PC Based Servo Motor Control from JRA
PC BASED SERVO MOTOR CONTROL

JRA announces the SERVO2 PC compatible 2 axis servo motor controller.

The SERVO2 plugs into any PC compatible motherboard and independently controls 2 motors. Feedback is provided by optical encoder on the motor shaft.

The controller operates in two modes. In the position model the user enters maximum motor speed in rpm and final position in encoder counts. The controller commands and monitors the motor move to the final position. The motor shaft will remain locked at this position until a new command is issued. In the velocity mode the user selects motor speed and direction. Once a start command is issued the motor will run at the command velocity until a new command is issued. In either mode, motor velocity may be changed during the move.

Using JRA motors the SERVO2 will accurately control speed from 0 to 2700 rpm with a position resolution of 0.17 degrees. Motor movement is smooth and vibration free throughout the velocity range. The system is an affordable replacement for vibration prone stepping motor systems in XY positioning and robotic applications.

The SERVO2 software allows the user to read motor position or velocity in real time, run motors simultaneously, create motion sequences by entering motor velocity and destination, plot position vs time, teach moves via the keyboard and more. Software is written in Quickbasic and program listings are provided.

JRA offers PMDC motors, gearmotors and matching 8 amp opto-isolated PWM type amplifiers. The SERVO2 controller is priced at $350.00 with manual and software.

JRA, 3602-1 Partridge Path, Ann Arbor, MI 48108

313-973-0928 voice/fax


Doctor Bill's Medical Expense Organizer
DOCTOR BILL'S Oraganizes Medical Expenses

Bayou City Software Inc. announces a new personal medical bookkeeping package for the DOS PC user called DOCTOR BILL's

Houston, Texas -- Bayou City Software has released Version 2.0 of DOCTOR BILL'S, a bookkeeping tool for organizing and evaluating individual and family medical expenses and historical information.

Who can use DOCTOR BILL'S? Individuals, families, and even small companies can track their medical and insurance expenses. For years people have relied on their physicians' office staff or their insurance companies to track medical costs and to tell them how much money they owed. However, the soaring cost of medical care now prompts many people to attempt tracking deductibles, charges, payments, and copayments for themselves, usually by hand. Accurate records of medical expenses are even more important if a tax deduction is desired. Wouldn't it be nice to find PC software that organizes and tracks this vital information for us? DOCTOR BILL'S is the answer.

DOCTOR BILL'S allows you to build a medical history that records medical procedures and diagnoses, and also records the charges and payments. Given this information, DOCTOR BILL'S analyzes the status of insurance deductibles and out-of-pocket spending limits. In addition, DOCTOR BILL'S stores information on prescriptions and even vaccinations for children.

Features of DOCTOR BILL'S

Medical History

One of the most exciting features of DOCTOR BILL'S is the ability to track individual and family medical expenses for easier and more complete record keeping. Each transaction record stores the date, description, cpt code, and the amount of the charge, along with the diagnosis assigned by your doctor. In addition, DOCTOR BILL'S stores the dollar amount of the approved charge and the payment from as many as three insurance plans, plus one personal payment.

Profiles

DOCTOR BILL'S stores names, addresses, and phone numbers on physicians, hospitals and other facilities, insurance policies, employers, schools and pharmacies.

Prescriptions

DOCTOR BILL'S stores detailed prescription information for easier refills and expense tracking.

Vaccinations

Schools, camps and childcare centers often require your child's vaccination history. DOCTOR BILL'S keeps a history for each child of all the required vaccinations with the dates of immunication.

YTD Totals and Policy Information

DOCTOR BILL'S can analyze medical expenses by family member, insurance policy, and transaction date to help you identify where your money goes. It calculates the status of your current year's deductible and out-of-pocket expenses in addition to your total medical expenses.

Pricing, Ordering Information, System Requirements

DOCTOR BILL'S sells for a suggested retail price of $69.00 with a 30-day money back guarantee.

New orders or requests for information about DOCTOR BILL'S can be made directly by telephone at (800) 759-4842 or (713) 621-9611, by fax at (800) 685-6501, or by writing Bayou City Software at PO Box 55, Bellaire, TX 77402-0055.

DOCTOR BILL'S requires an IBM PC or compatible with DOS 2.0 or greater, 256K RAM and a hard disk is recommended.


Comprehensive Sybase Customer Service Paradigm
SYBASE ANNOUNCES COMPREHENSIVE CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SUPPORT PARADIGM

Setting a New Standard for Support in Enterprise Client/Server Computing

BURLINGTON, MA, April 13, 1993 -- Sybase, Inc., a leading vendor of client/server software and services for building on-line, enterprise-wide applications, today announced its new customer service and support paradigm at the grand opening celebration of its newest support center in Burlington, MA. The new customer support paradigm reflects the company's commitment to building a world-class support organization that meets the changing support requirements of enterprise client/server computing today and in the future.

David Peterschmidt, Sybase vice president and general manager of worldwide field operations, commented, "We are creating a new standard for customer support, which is crucial to the successful implementation of true enterprise client/server computing. This standard is based on partnerships with our customers which help us identify changing service requirements." The Sybase Customer Support Paradigm

Based on input from customers, the new support paradigm draws on highly skilled support people, engineering talent, and the most sophisticated resources to support the enterprise client/server environment. The new paradigm was created to meet the needs expressed in day-to-day input from customers, as well as in focus groups, surveys and user group meetings. Key elements that make up the new support paradigm include:

Global: In response to Sybase's growing customer base outside the U.S., the company has expanded its support offering with the addition of three new support centers in Switzerland, Holland and Japan and has doubled its support staff in Europe in the last year. In addition, all Sybase international offices are connected through a wide-area network, enabling the exchange of information and expertise throughout the Sybase support organization. Sybase has established a global standard for customer support.

Accessible: Sybase has increased the number of support centers from four to eight over the past year, including the opening of the Burlington support center. The Burlington facility is a key component in increasing customer access to highly trained personnel, and to a full range of support services. The proximity of local support personnel provides a tremendous advantage when on-site support is needed. In addition, Sybase has also enhanced its "800" number (1-800/8-SYBASE) to provide customers with a single source of information. The "800" number, available to all customers calling from the U.S. and Canada, provides information on Sybase products, seminars, support renewals, technical support and consulting services. In addition, Sybase provides field account managers in each regional office.

Responsive: In order to respond efficiently and effectively to its growing worldwide customer base, Sybase has more than doubled the number of support employees in Europe and quadrupled the number of employees in Burlington over the past year. Sybase has realigned its technical support staff to insure that customers speak with the most appropriate technical representatives. Bringing the expertise closer to the customer enables many questions to be answered in one phone call, greatly reducing the time invested by the customer. Sybase has also enhanced the 24-hour support program to allow more customers the authorization to access Sybase technical support.

Flexible: Sybase will continue to offer scalable services designed to address the needs of the most demanding customers as well as customers with fewer service requirements. Sybase provides three levels of support: Alliance -- a custom program developed for the individual customer; Prime -- 24-hour support, five to seven days a week; and Standard Service -- five days a week, 12 hours a day. Over the next year, field account managers will be developing custom support plans which include on-site support, beginning with North American customers.

Technology Transfer: The transfer of technology to customers is a high priority to Sybase. Because of this commitment, Sybase has increased the number of training centers to 19 worldwide - a 30% increase from 1992 -- and continues to offer a broad range of training courses for customers. Sybase also hosts an annual Users' and Developers' Conference, and provides users with trouble-shooting guides, as well as access to Insight, a technical support electronic bulletin board that provides current information on Sybase product news and events.

Quality & Innovation: To ensure the most sophisticated technology is leveraged, Sybase support centers will utilize an innovative support system, based on the SYBASE product, that allows the company's support staff around the world to access the same information on a real-time basis. This system enables support personnel to look at how a problem effects a customer's entire enterprise, rather than seeing each problem as an isolated event. Other innovative tools and support capabilities are planned for announcement in 1993 and 1994.

To ensure the highest standards of quality are met, Sybase has begun the process of gaining certification from the International Standards Organization (ISO). ISO 9000 certification is required by a growing number of Sybase customers. This certification requires adherence to a series of quality standards which form the foundation and framework for an effective quality system. The Sybase Technical Support Organization is committed to gaining certification by 1994. In addition to providing the highest levels of quality services on the full range of SYBASE product offerings, the company provides experts trained in a variety of platform technologies. Sybase, Inc.

Sybase, Inc. (NASDAQ: SYBS) develops and markets a leading family of client/server-based software products and services for on-line, enterprise-wide applications. Sybase's integrated family of software includes servers, tools, connectivity, and administration/control products that provide complete desktop to mainframe solutions. Headquartered in Emeryville, CA, Sybase markets its products worldwide through its direct sales force, telesales, distributors, OEMs, VARs, and Systems Integrators.

Sybase Inc, 6475 Christie Ave, Emeryville, CA 04608

510-596-3500;  Fax: 510-658-9441


SixGraph WIZARD 9000 VL BUS Graphics Accelerator
SIXGRAPH COMPUTING ANNOUNCES THE WIZARD 9000 VL BUS GRAPHICS ACCELERATOR

SixGraph Computing Ltd. with offices in Montreal and Boston MA. has announced the WIZARD 9000 VL bus Graphics accelerator for CAD and Windows. The Wizard 9000 VL is based on the WEITEK POWER 9000 chipset with 2 MEG VRAM standard.

The WIZARD 9000 is the fastest graphics accelerator available on the PC for Windows and AutoCAD. The WIZARD 9000 is designed to run synchronously with the VESA Local Bus at speeds up to 33 Mhz with a peak data rate of 66 MBytes/s.

The WIZARD 9000 Windows driver enables the WIZARD 9000 to display 16.7 million colors at 800-by-600 resolution, 65,536 colors at 1024-by-768, and 256 colors at 1280-by-1024 resolution. The user has a choice between small font and large font drivers depending on the size of the monitor being used. The 72 Hz flicker-free VESA standard is supported at all resolutions.

In addition to the WINDOWS drivers, the WIZARD 9000 has an enhanced driver for AutoCAD Rel. 10, 11, 12 AutoShade and 3D Studio from PANACEA. Also included are drivers for WordPerfect, Lotus 1-2-3, Cadkey, MicroStation PC, Microsoft Word GEM/Ventura Publisher 3.0 and several additional CAD packages.

SixGraph Computing Ltd. markets it's products to a network of distributors, system integrators and OEMs.

List Price: $ 675

SixGraph Computing Ltd.

5 Harborview Dr, Hingham, MA 02043

617-740-0032;  fax: 617-740-4081


SixGraph WIZARD 924 Graphics Accelerator
SIXGRAPH COMPUTING ANNOUNCES THE WIZARD 924 GRAPHICS ACCELERATOR

SixGraph Computing Ltd. with offices in Montreal and Boston MA. has announced the WIZARD 924 Graphics accelerator for CAD and Windows. The WIZARD 924 incorporates the 86C924 chip from S3 corporation and comes with 1 MEG VRAM standard.

The WIZARD 924 Windows driver enables the WIZARD 924 to display 16.7 million colors at 640-by-480 resolution, 16 or 256 colors at 800-by-600 and 1 024-by-768, and 16 colors at 1 280-by-1024 resolution. The user has a choice between small font and large font drivers depending on the size of the monitor being used. The 72 Hz flicker-free VESA standard is supported with most resolutions except at 1280-by-1024 which has a 60 Hz refresh rate.

In addition to the WINDOWS drivers, the WIZARD 924 has an enhanced driver for AutoCAD Rel. 10, 11 and 12 with bird's eye view and edge panning features. Also included are drivers for WordPerfect, Lotus 1-2-3, Cadkey, MicroStation PC, Microsoft Word, OS/2 and several additional CAD packages.

The WIZARD 924 installation program is menu driven and easy to use. The board comes with a DIP switch and has no jumpers on the board. The switch permits the selection of the IRQ, Turbo mode, BIOS access width and monitor selection. There is a utility program supplied with the drivers that allows the user to center the screen to accommodate different monitors and to display the current switch settings so the user does not have to visually check the DIP switch at the back of the board.

List price: $ 295.

SixGraph Computing Ltd.

5 Harborview Dr, Hingham, MA 02043

617-740-0032;  fax: 617-740-4081


The Relational Database Advisor

by KIMBERLY MAUGHAN SAUNDERS

The essential non-programmer's guide to maximizing performance with: Paradox, dBASE, R:BASE, and generic SQL

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--Entry level business users faced with implementing their first relational databases can now turn to, Kimberly Saunders for easy-to-follow guidelines for each phase in the database design process, Saunders provides specific suggestions for building databases that fit a variety of business needs and software environments. Emphasis is placed on moving beyond a traditional flat-file or hierarchical approach to create sophisticated libraries of database files with common informational links.

Because today's database programs place more programmer-like power at the hands of the everyday PC operator, today's database products have grown too complex for many beginners to set up without guidance. The choices: l) live with a limited database that never really performs up to its potential, 2) hire a high-priced consultant, or 3) use this book to master database design standards.

As the owner of a computer consulting firm, Kimberly Saunders provides systems analysis, database instruction, courseware development, and MIS layout services for business. She was a featured speaker on database design concepts at the 1990 International Paradox Conference.

The Relational Database Advisor

Order No. 3944

Now Available

PAPER $16.95

ISBN 0-8306-2500-3

248pp.,7"x 10"

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


Inspection Data Manager (IDM)
mdbs Announces Release of Inspection Software

Micro Data Base Systems, Inc. (mdbs) announces the release of Inspection Data Manager (IDM) software. IDM software meets the needs of plant inspection departments in chemical industries. IDM addresses specific requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in addition to guidelines provided by the Chemical Manufacturer's Association (CMA) and standards set by the American Petroleum Institute (API).

IDM includes an AutoCAD interface which allows AutoCAD drawings to be viewed from the package. Inspection points, recent measurements, and scheduled inspection dates are shown directly on the AutoCAD drawing. The data logger component interfaces to Panametrics' 26DL PLUS as well as other popular data collection devices.

Gary Rush, President of mdbs' Applications Solutions Division, which developed IDM, states, "Today's strict regulatory environment virtually demands the use of an automated system to carry out inspection functions. Our package was built to meet the needs of inspection personnel and to address the new OSHA requirements."

Bill Hatler, Lead Inspection Specialist for Exxon Chemicals, says, "IDM has allowed us to increase greatly the effectiveness of our inspection program at Exxon. With IDM, we are able to meet government requirements for inspection records. Additionally, we have information which has increased inspection efficiency and accuracy."

mdbs has been developing IDM software since 1986. IDM version 3.0 is currently in use at Exxon installations around the world. mdbs will release version 3.1 during the first quarter of 1993.

For further information, contact Micro Data Base Systems, Inc.'s Inspection Software Group at (317) 449-1142.

mdbs, 2 Executive Dr, PO Box 6089, Lafayette, IN 47903-6089

317-447-1122


KnowledgeMan V3.1 Shipping from mdbs
Improved User Interface, Faster Performance, Event-Driven Programming in Version 3.1

Micro Data Base Systems, Inc. (mdbs) is shipping version 3.1 of KnowledgeMan, the relational database management system for business applications. Version 3.1 highlights include a completely rewritten user interface, I/O speed improvements, and the addition of new event-handling functions to the KGL programming language.

Version 3.1's querying capabilities of Commander have been greatly improved. The Query By Example (QBE) now allows users to make multiple queries on multiple tables and display the results on the screen in tabular form or as a standard select listing (on screen or printer). The code used to generate these views can be saved to a file for re-use or to incorporate into an application.

The use of a mouse is now supported by Commander. In addition, file dialog and output redirection boxes similar to those found in Windows and Presentation Manager, are now used throughout Commander. This gives the interface a distinctly GUI character.

Eight new event handling functions have been added to give developers the low-level functionality needed to create event-driven applications. Sample source code illustrating KGL event-driven programming is included in the 3.1 package.

Version 3.1 is available for single-user MS-DOS based PCs, OS/2, most popular LANs, DEC VAX/VMS and SUN UNIX environments. Applications are portable across all operating environments. KnowledgeMan is extensible through many 3GLs such as C and FORTRAN.

For additional information about KnowledgeMan version 3.1, call your sales representative at (800) 445-mdbs and request a KnowledgeMan version 3.1 update information packet.

Note: All current KnowledgeMan Service and Maintenance customers will automatically receive a 3.1 update.

mdbs, 2 Executive Dr, PO Box 6089, Lafayette, IN 47903-6089

317-447-1122


Professional SAS User Interfaces

by RICK ASTER

Designing and building quality SAS interfaces for graphical operating systems

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--This is the only comprehensive guide to creating SAS user interfaces for the industry's most popular graphical platforms. Rick Aster shows readers how to design and program easy-to-use interfaces for a variety of command line, windowing, macro language, and software development environments. Complete programs are included, as are a detailed tutorial on using the screen control language (SCL) and a chapter on compiling effective program documentation.

With an installed base of more than one million users, SAS is the standard language for statistical computing on mainframe, VAX, and DOS systems. Its reputation is grounded in non-graphical environments, but the SAS Institute recently broke new ground by releasing versions of their product for today's hottest GUI-based operating systems--including Windows, OS/2, NeXT, and UNIX.

A programming consultant with more than six years of SAS experience, Rick Aster has written many large-scale SAS programs for the state of New Jersey and several major banks. He is the co-author of Windcrest's Professional SAS Programming Secrets.

Professional SAS User Interfaces

Order No. 4083

Now Available

PAPER $34.95

ISBN 0-8306-3717

464pp.,7" x 10"

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


Lotus 1-2-3 for Windows Simplified

by DAVID BOLOCAN

Updated for 1-2-3's new Windows interface

Fully illustrated for ease of use

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--Widely regarded as the best all-around introduction to Lotus 1-2-3, David Bolocan's bestselling guide has been completely revised to cover all the new features of Lotus 1-2-3 for Windows. Bolocan provides illustrated step-by-step lessons that take beginning 1-2-3 users gently from the basics of program operation to high-level spreadsheet analysis and calculation techniques.

In addition to getting hands-on experience with all commands and functions, readers learn the ins and outs of printing, graphing, macro programming, working with matrices and linear regressions, using Lotus for Windows on a network, protecting data, and managing memory. Bolocan also explains how to use all of the new problem-solving add-ins and utilities.

David Bolocan is a consultant and programmer specializing in the creation of Lotus applications. He holds a degree in computer science from Harvard University and has written more than 15 successful books for Windcrest, including Lotus 1-2-3 Simplified, Release 3.1.

Lotus 1-2-3 for Windows Simplified

Order No. 3972

Now Available

PAPER $18.95

ISBN 0-8306-3063-5

352pp.,7" x 10"

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


INGRES SQL Developer's Guide

by CAROLYN J. HURSCH and JACK L. HURSCH

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--INGRES programmers who are getting their first taste of SQL will appreciate the carefully worded descriptions of INGRES SQL components and characteristics, the step-by-step programming instructions, and the sample programs illustrating basic embedded SQL techniques in this book. Hursch and Hursch demonstrate the use of INGRES SQL in all program versions, including DOS, VAX, UNIX, IMS, VMS, and more. Readers also learn to use such advanced INGRES features as Query-by-Forms and Application-by-Forms.

From the beginning of relational database management systems, INGRES has been among the industry leaders in the race to perfect the data definition and manipulation capabilities of Structured Query Language.

This is the only book to treat SQL as a vital working element in the overall INGRES database model, rather than as a secondary source of assistance in designing and running applications.

Carolyn J. Hursch, Ph.D., is a professional technical writer. Jack L. Hursch, Ph.D., is a computer consultant to the city of Denver. Both have been involved with relational database development since the early 1960s.

INGRES SQL Developer's Guide

Order No. 3941

Now Available

PAPER $21.95

ISBN 0-8306-2528-3

256 pp., 7" x 10"

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


Batch Files to Go: A Programmer's Library

by RONNY RICHARDSON

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--This collection of ready-to-use batch files features more than 100 keystroke-saving programs that DOS users will find published nowhere else. Ronny Richardson presents a complete set of fully developed programs--all available on disk for instant access--which can be used as they are or altered to handle virtually any file management task. Readers learn batch file fundamentals as they implement programs for enhancing DOS commands, building custom menus, modifying screen displays, controlling sound and color, limiting system access, and much more. Ronny Richardson is a regular contributor to Computer Shopper, PC Computing, and Computer Monthly. He is the author of Windcrest's MS-DOS Batch File Utilities, Dr. Batch File's Ultimate Collection, and Writing DR DOS Batch Files.

5.25" Disk Included!

Batch Files to Go: A Programmer's Library

Order No. 4165

Now Available

PAPER $34.95

ISBN 0-8306-3989-6

336pp.,7"x 10"

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


EZ-NCOA Obtains Mail Forwarding Addresses
Shareware Obtains Forwarding Addresses For Mailing Lists, Saves Big $$$

April 9, 1993 -- Nuts & Bolts Software is now shipping version 4.0 of EZ-NCOA, a shareware utility for cleaning mailing lists maintained on IBM-compatibles. Like other list cleaning programs, EZ-NCOA standardizes each address, adds ZIP+4, and indicates invalid addresses. Unlike any other program, EZ-NCOA obtains forwarding addresses from the National Change Of Address Center (NCOA), a part of the U.S. Postal Service.

From your mailing list EZ-NCOA creates a set of disks that you send to the NCOA. The NCOA maintains a database of over 100 million address changes going back three years. After comparing your list with this database, the NCOA sends you a new set of disks for your list. EZ-NCOA reads these disks and updates your list. Processing costs $7.00 per thousand names submitted, with a $25 minimum.

The savings in postage, printing, and data entry can be very large, especially for compiled lists and lists with addresses that have not been kept current. The Postal Service estimates the typical payback is two to three times the cost of processing on the first mailing and the total payback can be many times that.

Because the Postal Service prefers addresses in upper case, that is what the NCOA provides. However, an advanced feature of EZ-NCOA is the capability to convert addresses supplied to upper and lower case. This is essential for personalized communications.

EZ-NCOA is compatible with any database or mailing list program and is suggested for use with mailing lists of up to 100,000 names. The price for EZ-NCOA is $55.00 plus $4.00 S/H and includes a 24 page manual, an official NCOA order form, and technical support by fax and phone.

Nuts & Bolts Software, 1324 Calle Scott, Encinitas, CA 92024

619-942-9692;  fax: 619-942-9377


EASi Eng. Moves to Larger Offices
EASi ENGINEERING MOVES TO NEW LARGER, MORE CENTRALLY-LOCATED OFFICES.

(Bingham Farms, Michigan -- April 6, 1993) EASi Engineering today announced that it has moved its main office from Auburn Hills to a larger facility in Bingham Farms, Michigan. At about 10,500 square feet, the new facility is about 60% larger than the old one. The additional space was made necessary by the company's substantial growth over the past several years. Another advantage of the new location is that it is very centrally located with respect to the company's major customers in the automobile industry.

Founded in 1981, EASi Engineering has a staff of over 100 professionals and is one of the largest suppliers of computer-aided engineering services to the automobile industry. EASi's capabilities include structural crash simulation, occupant simulation, biomechanics, linear and nonlinear finite element analysis, optimization, kinematics and dynamic analysis. Additional capabilities includes analysis of noise, vibration and harshness, and alternate materials evaluation including structural plastics and composites.

In the last several years, EASi has released several software products targeted towards specialized automotive applications. EASi-BUMPER is an advanced computer-aided engineering tool that provides a practical method for the bumper designer to determine the relative effectiveness of different materials and geometries without going into the time-consuming and costly process of detailed finite element analysis or physical testing. EASi-SEAL is a personal-computer-based software package that can greatly simplify the process of optimizing the design of air-tight seals by providing all the information needed to determine the seal tightness, durability and closure force of the design.

EASi Engineering

30800 Telegraph Rd, #3700

Bingham Farms, MI 48025

313-901-4800;   fax: 313-901-4818


SOFTSEARCH NOW SOURCES SOFTWARE

VANCOUVER, B.C. April 12, 1993 - SoftSearch - The Software Information Service has expanded its already unique service. While continuing to provide unbiased reports to customers about commercially available software, customers can now purchase software through SoftSearch. This newest addition to our service is especially useful to those who want to purchase difficult to locate software.

An incentive to-using SoftSearch is also being offered. For people requesting searches, a ten percent (10 %) discount Is offered on the purchase of software, to a maximum of the search's cost. In other words, if you purchase a piece of software resulting from a search, the report is effectively free. As well as money, SoftSearch will save its clients even more time by handling all delivery details.

SoftSearch is the most comprehensive and up-to-date source of software information in North America with details on over 60,000 commercial computer software products for micro, mini and mainframe computer environments. This service is offered through a North America-wide toll free phone number (1-800-667-6503).

Requests for information are telephoned in, and one of SoftSearch's software specialists will then search the database for available programs that meet the user's requirements. A customized report on the software options is generated, usually within two hours, and then delivered by mail, fax, or courier.

A report is $2.90 per program meeting the selection criteria, with a minimum charge of $50.00 per search. Those constantly looking for software can take advantage of the yearly volume discount rate of $400 for up to ten searches.

SoftSearch can also provide an in-depth report on a particular software package. This valuable report gives complete details on the program including articles, reviews, and demonstration copies of the a division of program where available. A detailed report costs $125.00, and is usually completed within two business days.

SoftSearch, 209-340 W. Cordova, Vancouver, BC Canada V6B 2V3

800-667-6503;  604-681-0516


MSD Upgrades DiskDupe Pro, V4.0 Released
Micro System Designs Upgrades DiskDupe Pro

CUPERTINO, CA - February 1993 - Micro System Designs has upgraded DiskDupe Pro, releasing version 4.0 of its disk duplication software which formats, copies, and compares floppy disks. The upgrade provides features that make DiskDupe Pro easier to use while producing perfect disks every time.

The new version has mouse driven pull-down menus and automatically detects the disk type and the configuration of the A: and B: drives. Each disk or disk image file is read into memory once, without disk swapping, and can then be copied to any number of disks.

DiskDupe Pro's primary error-checking mechanism, called Verify, now performs a byte-by-byte comparison of the original and copied data as copies are made. This comparison, which in previous versions could only be done as a separate step, ensures that duplicates are 100% accurate.

A special cleaning cycle eliminates what Micro System Designs' president Max Dunn calls the "major undiagnosed cause of bad floppy disks." A battery of floppy drive and controller checks also search the computer for hidden problems at all stages of the copying process.

DiskDupe Pro's Label function prints disk labels that can include the disk's serial number, volume label, and the first line of a file on the disk, among other things. Labels can be printed during or separately from the actual copying of the disks.

Enhancements to DiskDupe Pro's Cascade feature allow it to cycle through up to four drives in any combination, with an optional pause afterwards, and the Set function can now copy disks in either disk or set order.

DiskDupe Pro works on any IBM PC, PS/2, or compatible and is available direct from Micro System Designs for $179.

MSD, 10062 Miller Avenue, Suite 104, Cupertino, CA 95014

(408) 446-2066;    Fax: (408) 446-2095


Advantage XBase Server for Novell Netware
EXTENDED SYSTEMS' ADVANTAGE XBASE SERVER BRINGS CLIENT/SERVER PERFORMANCE AND FILE INTEGRITY TO MULTI-USER CLIPPER APPLICATIONS ON NOVELL NETWARE 3.11/4.0

Boise, ID, April 12, 1993 -- Extended Systems, Inc. announced today that it will release the Advantage Xbase Server for Novell NetWare 3.11/4.0 next month. The Advantage Xbase Server brings the multi-user performance and file integrity benefits of client/server processing to Clipper applications without having to rewrite a single line of code. The Advantage Xbase Server consists of a Clipper Replacable Database Driver (RDD) and a NetWare Loadable Module (NLM). The RDD integrates seamlessly into existing Clipper 5.x applications, and the NLM runs on a NetWare 3.11 or 4.0 file server. The Advantage Xbase Server is the result of a technology sharing agreement between Extended Systems and SuccessWare, where Extended Systems has integrated SuccessWare's Replaceable Database Driver technology for Clipper 5.x (SIx Driver) with a NetWare Loadable Module (NLM).

Increases Performance For Multi-user Clipper Applications

The Advantage Xbase Server optimizes multi-user performance by intelligently dividing database operations between the client and the Server. Traditional Xbase database applications send all the data across the network to be processed on the workstation. With the Advantage Xbase Server's client/server architecture, network traffic is reduced by processing requests on the file Server, where the data is stored. The Advantage Xbase Server also uses multi-threaded and shared memory designs to accept and execute multiple users requests simultaneously. This minimizes Server memory usage while optimizing performance.

To further enhance performance, the Advantage Xbase Server employs an intelligent lock management system. This locking scheme allows simultaneous multi-user index and data access. The system retains compatibility with the existing Clipper locking mechanism. The result is significantly greater system throughput in multi-user applications with absolutely no code changes.

The Advantage Xbase Server also utilizes Mach SIx query optimization to improve the performance of FOR condition queries by up to 1000 times. Like FoxPro's Rushmore technology, the Mach SIx query optimizer uses bitmaps and index shortcuts to dramatically increase query performance.

Improves Database File Integrity

With the Advantage Xbase Integrity System, file corruption due to workstation failure can be eliminated. Now database administrators and programmers are no longer forced to manage index or data file corruption resulting from an interruption in communication between the workstation and the file server.

During traditional interaction between the workstation and server, your database is open to corruption. If the workstation fails during an update because of a reboot, power failure or memory problem, index integrity and database integrity can be compromised. The Advantage Xbase Integrity System can ensure that every database update runs to completion or doesn't begin. The RDD interface bundles commands and transmits them to the NLM. If any command is partially received by the NLM, it is not executed. With the Advantage Xbase Integrity System, index integrity now depends only on the file-server, not each workstation connected to it.

Completely Compatible With Existing Clipper Applications And Databases

The Advantage Xbase Server requires no rewriting of applications, no data file conversions and no reeducation. By using Clipper's Replaceable Database Driver interface, the Advantage Xbase Server integrates seamlessly into existing Clipper 5.x applications. To receive the benefits of the Advantage Xbase Server, simply relink existing applications with the new library and load the NLM on the file server. The Advantage Xbase Server's architecture ensures that no data porting is required, because it supports the same industry standard file and index formats that Clipper supports.

The RDD includes Auto Sensing capabilities. Auto Sensing allows a single application to run as both a client/server application on a network (with the Advantage Xbase Server NLM loaded) or as a standard Clipper application on a stand-alone workstation. If the Advantage NLM is available, database commands are processed on the server. If the Advantage NLM is not available, your application transparently reverts back to standard workstation command processing.

Compatible With Existing Novell NetWare 3.11 and 4.0 Networks

The Advantage Xbase Server integrates into existing Novell NetWare 3.11 or 4.0 networks without software modifications and with limited hardware impact. The Advantage Xbase Server adheres to Novell's security system and requires no reformatting or repartitioning of disk drives. For further assurance of adherence to Novell specifications, the Advantage Xbase Server will be Novell certified.

The Advantage Xbase Server does not require a dedicated PC, since server load and memory utilization are kept to a minimum. The server' s file handle requirements are also dramatically reduced because the NLM uses common file handles across all users.

Advanced Application Functionality

The Advanced Functionality of the Advantage Xbase Server can be used to extend the functionality of Clipper applications. The Advantage Xbase Server supports the following advanced capabilities:

Compressed indexes reduce the disk space required for indexes by up to 90%.

Compound indexes reduce the number of application file handles and decrease index corruption.

Multiple Record Locking provides more secure transaction control.

Conditional indexes and index scopes allow for more flexible views and much higher performance than traditional filters.

Flexible Memo fields allow you to establish your own block size, reuse empty memo blocks and store more data in a typical memo field.

Sub-indexing allows you to quickly reorder and refine an existing view.

Extended Systems has successfully designed and marketed a number of advanced NetWare Loadable Modules. The most recent, ExtendBase, is a client/server utility that makes indexing, reporting and querying functions on existing Xbase databases run up to 15 times faster. Extended Systems' products are available from its' national direct sales organization. Extended Systems product families focus on enabling users to increase the life, functionality and capabilities of their computer resources by providing high-performance, reliability and ease of use.

Extended Systems, 5777 N. Meeker Ave, Boise, ID 83704

800-235-7576;  406-587-7575;  fax: 208-377-1906


Microsoft Guide to Managing Memory w/MS-DOS 6
Dan Gookin's

The Microsoft Guide to Managing Memory with MS-DOS 6

Second Edition

Installing, Configuring, and Optimizing Memory for MS-DOS and Windows Operating Systems on Your PC

That shiny new computer you just wheeled off the showroom floor crouches on your desk, just aching for a workout. Under the hood a powerful 486 microprocessor is tamed only by a sophisticated MS-DOS 6 operating system working in tandem with the Microsoft Windows' operating system. You load up with state-of-the-art Windows-based applications, and with a tap on the keyboard the 486 roars to life. Nimbly it switches from spreadsheet to database and back again. You can't wait to show off this screaming machine!

But soon others have managed to squeeze a few extra KB of memory out of their rigs, and you're naturally determined to outdo them. Where do you get help? THE MICROSOFT GUIDE TO MANAGING MEMORY WITH MS-DOS 6 by bestselling author Dan Gookin, that's where!

This inexpensive book from Microsoft Press proves you don't have to be a computer genius to get the extra performance you deserve. From early XT workhorses to the latest 486 multimedia power monsters, Gookin shows you exactly how to customize your PC for the extra memory now available using MS-DOS 6 all presented without a trace of "technobabble" The result is a faster, slicker, more efficient machine at a price cost-conscious enthusiasts will love. Your friends will wonder how you did it! Here's what's covered:

* The basics of memory--what it is and how your computer uses it

* The differences between conventional, extended,

  and expanded memory

* Real-life MS-DOS solutions to the memory crunch

* The whys and hows of buying, installing, and using

  RAM chips and memory boards

* Speed boosting with RAM disks and disk caches

* How the dos=high command gives instant access to

  50 KB more conventional memory

* The secrets of moving device drivers and memory-resident

  programs into upper memory

* Tips on running the Microsoft Windows operating system

  more efficiently with MS-DOS 6

* Extending the memory-management capabilities of MS-DOS 6

  with hot third-party memory managers

Plus Gookin offers computer setup scenarios that show in detail how memory management can soup up any PC. A glossary and a summary of commands that deal with memory and memory configuration are included, and a comprehensive index helps readers quickly find information on any topic in the book.

Dan Gookin manages to have one or two computer books on the bestseller list at any given time. His irreverent, friendly style has led to a stint as a host of a popular radio show, assignments for several computer magazines, and invitations to speak at dozens of user group meetings. Two of his bestselling books--Dan Gookin's PC Hotline and Microsoft Guide to Optimizing Windows 3.1--are published by Microsoft Press.

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 self-paced 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


HiJaak PRO 2.0 Windows Graphics Conversion
Inset Systems Announces HiJaak PRO 2.0

The Windows Graphics Conversion and Capture Utility

New Release Adds Depth, Power, and Usability

Summary of features:

* Performance increases in the speed of file loading, zooming

  and scrolling.

* Improved user interface as a result of usability test

  conducted by outside laboratory.

* New graphics formats include Photo CD, JPEG, TIFF 6.0,

  ED5, GED, and Sun raster.

* Transparent import of 70+ graphics formats into most major

  applications through compliance with the Aldus Graphics Import

  Filter specification and the WordPerfect for Windows API.

* TWAIN support for scanner and electronic camera image devices.

* HiJaak Browser previews and automatically keeps track of image

  files.

* Free color metafile clipart from a leading clipart vendor.

* Free upgrade from HiJaak for Windows (for a nominal shipping

  and handling charge).

Brookfield, CT (April 13, 1993) Inset Systems Inc., publishers of the HiJaak family of graphics tools, today announced HiJaak PRO 2.0. HiJaak PRO 2.0 is a graphics utility that lets you view, convert, capture, enhance, and print graphics images in the Windows environment. HiJaak PRO 2.0 is an upgrade of the award winning HiJaak for Windows.

Significant portions of HiJaak for Windows have been re-written with performance in mind. Special emphasis has been placed on increasing the speed of opening and loading files, scrolling images, and zooming. Much of the experience gained since HiJaak for Windows shipped in June 1992 has been used to enhance the performance of the product.

Extensive usability testing was conducted by Usability Sciences Corporation and much of the feedback has been incorporated into HiJaak PRO 2.0. The improvements include a reorganized and much clearer menu system, enhanced help bar messages, and more helpful dialog box messages. "HiJaak PRO 2.0 has been updated with the user in mind," said Maurice Hamoy, vice president of business development at Inset Systems. "Our emphasis in creating this release was to make using the product faster and smoother. HiJaak PRO 2.0 definitely has the feel of a mature product."

In addition to the more than 60 graphics formats it supported in version 1.0, HiJaak PRO 2.0 adds several important new formats. Kodak Photo CD images can be loaded directly from the CD ROM, enhanced, and saved in any one of HiJaak PRO 2.0's supported raster output formats. HiJaak PRO's support of ED5 is based on user demand from the government and aerospace sectors. Wicat's GED format is used with that popular training system.

JPEG compression is built into HiJaak PRO 2.0, giving it the ability to view, read, and write JPEG files. JPEG compression gives HiJaak PRO 2.0 the ability to compress images up to 200 to 1, reducing disk space requirements. For even higher compression ratios with the same level of quality on continuous tone images, CMP compression, written by Lead Technologies, has also been included. HiJaak PRO 2.0 adds TIFF 6.0 support, including the ability to read and write JPEG-compressed TIFF files. An addition to the list of cross-platform formats is the Sun raster format, enabling HiJaak PRO 2.0 to read and write graphics created on the popular Unix workstations. For connectivity with IBM mainframes and AS/400 workstations, HiJaak PRO 2.0 reads and writes the IOCA format.

HiJaak PRO 2.0 now supports the Aldus Graphics Import Filter specification. Many popular applications support this protocol for sharing import filters, such as PageMaker, Freehand, Word for Windows, AmiPro, and PowerPoint. "By supporting the Aldus Graphics Import Filter specification, HiJaak PRO 2.0 gives PageMaker users the ability to transparently import more than 70 graphics file formats," said Lisa Wise, Manager, 3rd Party Relations at Aldus Corporation. "Third party relationships are important to Aldus, and HiJaak PRO 2.0 is an example of the success that can come from these relationships."

HiJaak PRO 2.0 also includes support for the WordPerfect for Windows API, enabling users of this popular word processing application to take advantage of HiJaak PRO 2.0's 70+ graphics import filters. WordPerfect for Windows users can now import graphics using HiJaak PRO 2.0's filters, without any additional steps.

HiJaak PRO 2.0 implements support for the TWAIN specification. TWAIN support has been included in many popular scanners and digital cameras, including those from Epson, Logitech, and Hewlett-Packard. Using the TWAIN interface, HiJaak PRO 2.0 can directly import an image from one of these sources and save the image in any supported raster output format. This allows you to skip the step of using your scanner software when you want to scan an image to a format not directly supported by your scanner software.

A new addition to HiJaak PRO 2.0 is the HiJaak Browser, an image catalog application. HiJaak Browser can automatically create thumbnail-sized representations of the user's images. Special attention has been placed on the ability to access images from not only hard disk, but from network files and removable media, including CD ROM. These thumbnails can be viewed quickly to find the desired image. The images can even be organized hierarchically using nested folders to group similar images. The thumbnails do not have to reside on the same media as the images.

One of the unique features of the HiJaak Browser is its ability to update the image thumbnails automatically in the background, after the computer has been idle for a user-selected period of time. Another feature is the ability to launch HiJaak PRO 2.0 from the Browser by double-clicking on the desired image.

The HiJaak PRO 2.0 retail package includes more than 200 free color metafile clipart images from one of the leading suppliers of clipart. These are high-quality, scalable images suitable for business and entertainment uses. More detailed information on the clipart will be available before the release of HiJaak PRO 2.0.

HiJaak PRO 2.0 is expected to ship in June 1993. The list price will be $169.00. Registered users of HiJaak for Windows can upgrade to HiJaak PRO 2.0 for a nominal shipping and handling charge. Current HiJaak users can register by calling 800-374-6738. Concurrent Use Licenses and Maintenance Agreements are also available. ISI products are sold worldwide through a network of distributors, retailers, and value-added resellers.

Inset Systems, 71 Commerce Dr, Brookfield, CT 06804-3405

203-740-2400;  fax: 203-775-5634


Apple & Macromedia Multimedia Tech Initiatives
Apple and Macromedia Update Progress in Furthering Multimedia Technology Initiatives

SAN JOSE, CA--March 30, 1993--Apple Computer, Inc. and Macromedia, Inc. today provided an update on their efforts designed to stimulate the use of multimedia technologies in business, education and home markets.

Five multimedia initiatives established by Apple and Macromedia are designed to increase accessibility, availability and awareness of multimedia solutions that benefit customers. The two companies announced a broad-working relationship this past February at the Macworld/Tokyo Exhibition.

"These initiatives provide focus and momentum for both authoring and infrastructure development," said Steve Franzese, Apple manager of Multimedia Marketing. "Progress in these areas will also help ensure success in our playback and solutions initiatives."

"Apple and Macromedia are committed to evangelizing multimedia technology," said John C. (Bud) Colligan, Macromedia's president and CEO. "In just six weeks, concrete accomplishments have been made and the ground work has been laid for the future."

Multimedia Initiatives

The five multimedia initiatives and the progress made by Apple and Macromedia are as follows:

* Multimedia bundle. The Macromedia Desktop Studio CD-ROM (consisting of Action! Macintosh, SoundEdit Pro and a ClipMedia sampler) will be sold both individually and bundled with various Apple CD-ROM hardware worldwide. The first release is scheduled in Canada for April with followon releases worldwide in the fall. Apple expects to ship 1.5 million CD-ROM drives worldwide in calendar 1993 and this bundle is the first software solution sold with these drives.

* Learning templates. Apple and Macromedia have signed an agreement to develop a suite of higher education and corporate learning templates with a third party. The templates will be developed with Authorware Professional and delivered on Apple CD-ROM hardware, setting the standard for higher education and corporate training departments. Availability of the templates is scheduled for late summer.

* Training support centers. To support developers in making world-class interactive titles, Apple and Macromedia will continue investing in existing university and multimedia consortiums. Initial focus will begin with Cornell University, New York University and San Francisco State University along with The American Film Institute in Los Angeles.

* Market education. Macromedia and Apple Computer have sponsored a worldwide multimedia educational tour entitled "Jazzed on Multimedia," This tour, launched by Graphix Zone in Irvine, California, is directed to developers and end users who want to "jazz up" communication and presentations with Macintosh-based multimedia solutions. Beginning in April in Los Angeles, "Jazzed" will travel to over eleven cities by the end of June. In total, the tour will be marketed to over 100,000 multimedia prospects around the world.

Macromedia launched its "Seminar in a Box," the complete toolkit for planning and producing effective multimedia seminars. The "Box" features solutions and product information highlighting usage with Apple hardware and will begin shipping to all authorized VARs, dealers and distributors during March.

In addition, Apple Computer has developed a set of CD-ROMs designed to educate the multimedia beginner on authoring systems and solutions. Delivery is scheduled for early May.

* Channel development. Macromedia launched its own "VAR Reseller Days" tour in North America during the month of March. Co-sponsored with Apple Computer, the entourage traveled to six cities nationwide and attracted over 250 VARs. An international version of the tour will begin in the second half of 1993.

Headquartered in Cupertino, Calif., Apple Computer, Inc. is a leading supplier of computers to consumer, education, business and government markets worldwide. A recognized pioneer and innovator in the personal computer industry, Apple has been named first in customer satisfaction among business computer users in the United States for the past two years by J.D. Powers and Associates.

Macromedia is the leading independent multimedia software company. The company's flagship products include Authorware Professional, the premier multiplatform authoring tool for interactive learning; Director, the premier animation and authoring tool for multimedia production; and a wide variety of complementary media composition and editing tools and accessories.

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

408-996-1010


Apple Cross-Platform Multimedia Products
Apple Executive Diery Unveils Cross-Platform Multimedia Products and Initiatives

SAN JOSE, California--March 30, 1993 -- Ian Diery, Apple's executive vice president of worldwide sales and marketing, today reaffirmed Apple's intent to build the largest and most active base of CDROM users in the industry by creating the best cross-platform multimedia technologies and solutions for both customers and developers.

Speaking at the Intermedia Conference, Diery introduced new products and initiatives that he said should be viewed as a signal of Apple's continued efforts to make multimedia useful and widely available to consumers, businesses, and educational institutions.

"Apple's involvement in multimedia technology is well known. We believe that our integrated hardware and software platform is the ideal environment for building multimedia content and solutions," said Diery. "We work with the most talented developers in the industry and we intend to reward their efforts with the most attractive base of CD-ROM users."

"Multimedia technology is among the foundations upon which Apple's long term strategy is built and CD-ROM technology is a key element," said Diery. "We are so optimistic about the future of CDROM technology that we have a goal to sell 1.5 million Apple CD-ROM players by the end of this calendar year."

In the last six months alone, Apple has introduced many products aimed at increasing the use of multimedia in all markets. Most of Apple's Macintosh desktop computers now offer built-in CDROMs as a standard option, and over 45 percent of customers worldwide are choosing it.

"Our commitment to making multimedia technology pervasive is absolutely unwavering," said Diery. "You're likely to see evidence of our efforts everywhere--in system software, in desktop computers, in mobile systems and through innovative programs and alliances designed to move multimedia into our living rooms, our offices and our classrooms."

New Multimedia Products Announced

Proof of that effort came with the announcement of two new multimedia products aimed at providing the user with a richer multimedia experience and greater access to high-quality digital sound.

PowerCD, is a three in one CD player that functions as a CD-ROM drive, a PhotoCD player and an audio CD player. It's the first in a line of CD-ROM-based multimedia products from Apple's Personal Interactive Electronics division.

The AppleDesign Powered Speakers will deliver consistent, high-quality sound accessible to all computer users at half the price of comparable stereo speakers. The speakers work with any personal computer platform equipped for sound output, including all Macintosh computers. In addition, the speakers can be attached to any CD-ROM drive, CD player or television.

"We believe that sound is just as important as graphics, movies and animations and Apple plans a focused effort on making sound capabilities as rich as all the other multimedia elements," said Diery.

Apple has supported sound in its architecture since the introduction of the first Macintosh in 1984 and continues to make advancements in sound integration. These efforts will include new sound capabilities in the next version of QuickTime.

Since its introduction in January 1992, QuickTime has been an enormous success and shipments have now passed the 1 million mark. There are 300 QuickTime applications shipping. Last November, Apple unveiled a Windows version so that even DOS users can play back QuickTime movies on their computers. This year, the Software Publishers Association honored QuickTime for Windows with the Best New Use of a Computer award, an award QuickTime for the Macintosh won last year.

Leading companies and institutions such as American Airlines, 3M Corp., Marriott Corp., and Carnegie-Mellon College of Fine Arts have adopted QuickTime technology for use in programs ranging from training and product distribution to full motion video recruiting, to developing an interactive learning environment.

Multimedia Infrastructure Key to Success

"In addition to an aggressive multimedia product strategy, we've established a New Media/New Markets group within the Macintosh Systems Division to focus solely on expanding our multimedia efforts and helping to develop new market opportunities for Macintosh technologies outside the traditional ones we know today," said Diery. The group is headed by Apple Vice President Satjiv Chahil.

Apple uses the term New Media to refer to an emerging industry resulting from the convergence of the computing, publishing, entertainment, telecommunications and consumer electronics industries.

Diery also said Apple is building momentum through a number of initiatives and alliances designed to hasten the adoption of multimedia technology and the subsequent development of the New Media industry.

Among these initiatives is a five-part agreement with MacroMedia, the leading multimedia software company, to stimulate the use of multimedia in all markets. The agreement includes:

* Three MacroMedia products available to purchasers of Macintosh with CD-ROM drives. The offer is intended to improve access to authoring and presentation tools.

* Jointly developed templates with Authorware Professional 2.0 in an effort to reduce the amount of time necessary for the development of the interactive learning applications.

* Establishing worldwide training support centers to help developers produce world class interactive titles.

* Collaborative efforts to educate customers about multimedia solutions and benefits through advertising, direct mail, seminars and on-line information through services such as AppleLink, CompuServe and America On-Line, as well as a new Multimedia Information CD.

* Channel development and recruitment activities to educate and increase the number of authorized multimedia resellers.

Apple also announced a worldwide Multimedia Program designed to spur the development of multimedia products and content and to strengthen the ability of third-party partners to prosper in the New Media industry.

Finally, Kaleida Labs, the company resulting from an alliance between Apple and IBM, is developing standards and license technology for cross-platform multimedia products that span personal computing, consumer electronics and the communications industries.

"ScriptX, Kaleida's multimedia scripting language, is another example of Apple's intent to bring multimedia into the mainstream," said Diery. "We believe cross-platform compatibility is a tremendous advantage to developers and that we will see a vast array of innovative multimedia titles built on ScriptX. We intend for ScriptX to play a central role in Apple's multimedia strategy."

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

408-996-1010


Apple Netwon Technology Licensing Strategies
Apple Announces Licensing Strategies and Alliances For Newton Technology

HANNOVER, Germany--March 25, 1993 -- Apple Computer, Inc. today made a number of announcements underlining its commitment to make its Newton technology a pervasive standard available to the computer, consumer and telecommunications industries. Apple aims to license key technologies to companies who can manufacture and market a variety of exciting new product based on Newton technology--to a broad range of customers. Newton is a family of personal digital assistant (PDA) products and technologies from Apple Computer due to be launched later this year. Newton technologies have been designed in such a way that key elements and components can be licensed to third parties. Several companies have announced their commitment and support for Newton technologies. Among them are:

* Sharp Corporation

Sharp Corporation, Apple's strategic ally in the development and manufacture of Newton, has recently announced that it is to be a licensee of the ARM chip which will be at the heart of the Newton family. Sharp joins two other ARM licensees, VLSI and GEC-Plessey.

* Motorola

Motorola has announced an agreement with Apple Computer, Inc. to license Apple's Newton technology in order to manufacture and market a handheld device featuring integrated, wireless communications capabilities based on the Newton operating system.

* Siemens Private Communications Systems Group and ROLM

Apple and Siemens announced their plans to collaborate on the development of NotePhone , a combination of Siemens-ROLM telephony and Newton technology which will provide access to telephone and fax features.

* Cirrus Logic

Cirrus Logic has announced their support of Newton technology by developing and supplying Newton-compatible chipsets for use by licensees of the Newton operating system and by Apple itself in its planned Newton products.

* Kyushu Matsushita Electric

Kyushu Matsushita Electric (KME) announced an agreement to license the Newton operating system from Apple for use in future products. Apple and KME also intend to explore the opportunity to include KME-provided technology in future Newton family products.

* LSI Logic

LSI Logic is manufacturing an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) chip for Newton PDA's. The ASIC provides the interface between the microprocessor, the memory and the user interface. The device is cell-based, full custom and uses 1-micron process technology.

Announcing the agreements, Gaston Bastiaens, vice president and general manager, Personal Interactive Electronics division at Apple, said, "Today we are setting the stage to create a worldwide standard for personal digital assistants available to the entire industry. This will allow the computer, consumer electronics and telecommunications industries to come together to provide a rich, integrated platform for the development community--and ultimately for all of their customers. We are very pleased with our progress so far, and look forward to joining with others in creating exciting new products based around Newton technologies."

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

Licensing Newton

"... as different industries converge and as these technologies come together, no single company will be able to control all that is needed to meet customer demand. This means that alliances will become increasingly important in the coming years"

--- John Sculley, Shareholders' Meeting, January 1993.

Apple's Newton Licensing Strategy -- Summary

1. We have developed a portfolio of licensable products, based

   on Newton technology.

2. We are committed to broadly licensing these products in order

   to create a standard.

3. We plan to retain control of the Newton architecture to

   maintain consistent user experience.

Companies working with Apple on Newton

Sharp Corporation

Siemens AG & ROLM

Motorola, Inc.

Cirrus Logic

Kyushu Matsushita Electric

ARM Semiconductor Partners:

* GEC Plessey Semiconductors

* Sharp Corporation

* VLSI Technology

Apple Computer, Inc. has shown that it can create 'hit products'. The Macintosh Classic, LC and PowerBook have each been both critically and popularly acclaimed. Apple believes that Newton technology will be another success. At the Consumer Electronics Show in 1992 Apple Chairman John Sculley coined the term Personal Digital Assistant, and indicated that Apple would have an offering in this brand new category. As we expected, many other companies soon afterwards announced that they had UPDA's" under development. Apple however had laid the ground and created the demand. We now have a licensing strategy which is designed to manage the complex business relationships that are required in order to bring this nascent industry to the market.

Apple's Personal Interactive Electronics (PIE) Division has announced that it will license its Newton technology--what does this mean?

As we have developed Newton technologies we have discovered ever- increasing ways in which customers would like to use these technologies. We believe that these core Newton technologies stand at the crossroads of the computer, consumer and communications industries, offering customers completely new ways of working and opportunities to re-engineer the ways that they work, learn and play.

As industries and competing businesses converge, we see vibrant new interdependencies being created which demand that major industry players become co-operators in these new emerging businesses. This is new ground for many companies, including Apple. The strength of Newton technologies is such that we intend to come to the market accepted as the PDA standard. As we have shown our Newton technology to potential partners, customers and developers they have seen the potential that it brings to their products and businesses. Often other businesses have seen Newton technologies as a possible catalyst to bring to life many of the ideas and plans that they are holding for their own future products.

We intend to reach out to a broad range of licensees. With these licensees we hope to make Newton an industry standard by delivering compatibility and unique performance capabilities to a broad range of customers. By adding additional licensees who bring valuable knowledge, skills and technology to the Newton platform we think we are better able to meet customers needs as industries converge and whole new classes of products come to market.

Already several major corporations have indicated agreement to work with Apple on Newton technology. Our key partner in the development of Newton is Sharp Corporation . Other recently announcements included Siemens AG, Motorola, Cirrus Logic, and Kyushu Matsushita Electric. The ARM chip, at the heart of Newton, has been licensed to GEC-Plessey, VLSI and Sharp Corporation.

We believe that we have developed a world-leading set of technologies in Newton. We expect market acceptance for not only Apple's implementation but also those of our licensees to be extremely high. This should give customers a wide variety of choices, in a wide variety of locations--with the promise of the quality and innovation signified by the Newton logo on the product. This large market will also lead to a wide range of applications, delivered in many different ways--online, off-the-shelf, through the mail, etc. Apple's online services are planned to be available to Newton-licensed products, providing such things as news, weather, sport, travel planning, financial services, mail and so on.

We have developed a portfolio of licensable products and have created a package which allows corporations to make use of years of quality Apple research and development in order to quickly bring innovative products to market. The anticipated compatibility between licensee and Apple products should allow each participant's offerings to take advantage of a full range of software and accessories which will be developed by a whole community of developers including Apple, its licensees and other third parties. Apple also plans to create a comprehensive online business that offers a compelling range of services to owners of licensees' products.

We intend to have a broadly accepted standard, and to work with our licensees to bring exciting innovative products to the market. In order to maintain the standard and grow the business for the benefits of developers, licensees and customers we plan to maintain control of the Newton architecture. We see this as essential to meet the needs of--and justify the investment of--our licensees. Apple will encourage the development of innovative products: one of the benefits of Newton technology is its flexibility, and we want to encourage licensees to take advantage of that in their products.

We want to create a broad, vigorous base of licensees. We are developing industry leading technology and we intend to support licensees worldwide who want to take advantage of that by bringing to their customers exciting, imaginative products.

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

408-996-1010


How Bill Clinton Got Where He Is Today (CDROM)
CLINTON: Portrait of Victory

Published by Warner New Media

Produced by Epicenter Communications

Street Date: January 20, 1993

Cost: $39.99 plus $5.00 shipping/handling and Calif sales tax.

To order: call 1-818-955-7004 or 1-800-593-6334.

How Bill Clinton got where he is today.

CD-ROM for DOS and Macintosh

TIME photojournalist P.F. Bentley had unprecedented access to the candidate and members of his victorious team during the months that culminated in Bill Clinton's winning the Presidency.  The result? More than 300 unforgettable photographs, now brought to life in a multimedia program complete with music, speeches, narration and, on the Mac version, video. Features an Introduction by essayist Roger Rosenblatt and an Epilogue by Michael Kramer, Chief Political Correspondent for TIME. The interactivity of the disc makes the story even more intimate.

Available at software stores nationwide. For a catalog with information about this CD-ROM title and others for MPC, Windows, DOS and Macintosh, please phone 1-800-593-6334.

Warner New Media, 3500 Olive Ave, Burbank, CA


Bignet to Market Riddick Bowe Game Software
San Francisco, CA -- Bignet USA Inc, a publisher of videogame software products for Sega game systems, announced a worldwide licensing agreement with New Bowe Licensing Inc., Featuring Riddick Bowe, the world heavyweight boxing champion, to develop a line of interactive software boxing games for North America, Europe and Japan.

Under terms of the agreement, New Bowe will support Bignet's efforts to design and develop a state-of-the-art boxing game for numerous computer and video game systems.

"It is a pleasure working with Riddick and his people. His dedication to being a god role model makes him an ideal partner in developing new interactive entertainment," said Denny Thorley, VP and general manager of Bignet. "We intend on actively involving Riddick in the development of the game."


EISToolKit Client-Server Decision Support Swr
New Unix Version of Client-Server Decision Support Application Development Tool Announced

Wilmington, Delaware - 7 April 1993 - MicroStrategy, Inc. is pleased to announce the 1 May 1993 release of the Unix version of EISToolKit, an application development environment for building cross-platform, client-server Executive Information System (EIS) and Decision Support System (DSS) applications, for the Sun OpenLook and Motif environments. In addition to the Unix version, MicroStrategy will also release EISToolKit version 2.1, an upgraded Macintosh and Windows version of EISToolKit. Over the next six months, MicroStrategy plans to release the OpenLook and Motif versions of EISToolKit for the Apollo, DEC, HP, IBM, MIPS, Motorola, NCR, SCO and SGI hardware platforms. With these three versions of EISToolKit, designers can now build client-server decision support applications which run identically on Unix, Macintosh, and Windows clients.

All three EISToolKits platforms include graphical user interface (GUI), presentation graphics, database connectivity, and spreadsheet modeling tools, in addition to a full-featured spreadsheet for data analysis, and HyperScript, a powerful 4GL (fourth-generation programming language) for detailed project customization. EISToolKit's point-and-click SQL generator provides easy access to over 50 relational and non-relational databases from Windows and Macintosh clients, including Oracle, DB2, Informix, Ingres, Sybase, AS/400, Rdb, Progress, Paradox, and dBase files. Unix clients will initially have access to Informix databases, with Oracle and Sybase expected soon. These databases can be accessed through multiple gateways (where applicable), including SQL*NET, EDA/SQL, MicroDecisionware Database Gateway, Open Client/Open Server, and SequeLink. For flexible, open solutions for database connectivity, EISToolKit for Windows ships with the ClearAccess, Pioneer QELIB, and Informix DataLink APIs; EISToolKit for Macintosh ships with the ClearAccess and Informix DataLink APIs; and EISToolKit for Unix ships with the Informix DataLink API.

EISToolKit's major features include graphical tools for the creation of custom layouts, controls, graphs, and links between layouts; a Function Library which contains over 100 pre-build functions customized for EIS/DSS application development; MicroStrategy's UltraSQL extensions, which allow designers to insert variables and arrays into their SQL code, which at query runtime are converted to standard SQL; and EISToolKit's "drill-down" feature which allows the development of extremely flexible data browsing schemes (with no programming) to generate successively more specific and more detailed data queries.

With the release of EISToolKit 2.1, MicroStrategy also improves product documentation with the addition of a detailed tutorial which leads the developer through the design of a real world EIS/DSS application. In addition, a detailed System Integration Guide provides users with specific information on application integration, networking, and database connectivity. As in previous versions of EISToolKit, all Macintosh, Windows and Unix versions of EISToolKit 2.1 come with working demonstrations to assist designers in building EIS/DSS applications as quickly as possible.

EISToolKit 2.1 is available in both a Designer and a User version. The Designer version provides application designers full access to all EISToolKit features, and enables EIS/DSS system construction. The User version enables users to run customized applications created with the Designer version. The Designer version is available for $1,995, and the User version ten-pack is available for $7,995, for all three hardware platforms. For additional information, please contact Mr. Deep Damle at 1-800-927-1868.

MicroStrategy, One Christina Centre, Wilmington, DE 19801

302-427-8800;  fax: 302-427-8810


SPA Concerns on Gov't Encryption Announcement
SPA Expresses Concern About Government's Encryption Announcement

April 167 1993 (Washington, DC)--The Software Publishers Association (SPA) today welcomed the Clinton/Gore Administration's decision to conduct a broad policy review on the use of encryption in a digital information world with a national information infrastructure However, SPA expressed concerns about the Administration's announcement of a new scheme for the encryption of telephone conversations, which relies on a secret Government-developed encryption code, the key to which will be held by as yet unidentified third parties.

"We are concerned that the Administration may have reached a conclusion on the encryption issue before its study is even under way. Although today's announcement was about encrypted telephone conversations, the Administration's proposal would seem to cover all computer data and facsimile communications," explained Ken Wasch, SPA Executive Director.

SPA's General Counsel, Ilene Rosenthal explained "The requirement to place the keys to an encryption code in "escrow" with third parties is a major decision that should only come at the end of extensive study and review--not before. Moreover, this scheme appears to be at odds with recent commercial developments regarding public/private key encryption systems."

SPA raised several serious questions about the Government's proposed scheme:

* If the Government-developed algorithm is classified, how will businesses and individuals know how the algorithm compares to commercially available systems such as DES, or that there is not a secret "back door' built in so that the Government can monitor all communications?

Who will hold the secret keys to the encryption codes--and how will the Government ensure that no one else will be able to get the codes from them?

* How does the proposed scheme comport with existing statutory protections and the Constitution?

* How will the proposed scheme affect the international competitiveness of US products that contain encryption?

"The Government seems to have gotten out in front of itself a bit," said Wasch. "We are concerned that the Government may have prejudged a solution with wide-ranging implications."

The Software Publishers Association is the principal trade association of the PC software industry. Its more than 1000 members represent the leading publishers in the business, consumer, and education markets. The SPA has offices in Washington, D.C., and Paris, France.

Software publishers Association

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

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


A Place For My Stuff for Windows (Database)
A Place For My Stuff for Windows

This is a quick overview of Quadrangle Software's new relational database product for Windows--A Place For My Stuff.

Other Relational Databases

First, let's talk about how other database products work. There are two kinds. The first kind promises flexibility, but in order to accomplish it, you are required to become a database designer. You specify what data elements you need. To do this you type labels (field names) and create boxes for field values for each and every piece of information you want to keep track of. So you end up with many fields like--name, address1, address2, company, title, phone number, fax number, work location, city, state, zip code, ... and so on. Then next week, when you find out you also have to keep track of product information for each customer, you have another screen to design with product codes, prices, descriptions, and quantities. And, you need to have an index that ties your product information to a specific customer.

The second kind of relational database is more for general use, and therefore offers little flexibility. Here, the designers have decided for you what information you want to keep. So there are pre-defined labels and boxes for name, address, phone number, etc. You don't have to design screens or reports, but when you need to store some information that is not already specified, you have three choices. You can put the information in a field you're not using (and hope you don't need it in the future) and live with the label being inaccurate, or you can store the information in some other database application (uh-oh ... how do you indicate its relationships to data in your primary database?) Or, you can convince yourself that if the designers of your database software didn't allow for your particular data, maybe it's not so important to keep in the first place.

Let's Make It Easy--Simple Sentences

Well, let's turn all this upside-down. First, assume that most people have stuff, not data elements. They don't know what an index is, and they don't have the time or the training to perform the tasks associated with database design, screen design (and worse, keeping the screens up-to-date), or report layout.

Look at it this way. What are names, and addresses, and phone numbers, and products, and quantities? Believe it or not, they are something we first learned about in kindergarten. They're Subjects and Objects of sentences. So in order to display them on a screen, we don't need data elements ... dozens of them ... ever changing... we can have just two--a place for Subjects and a place for Objects.

Now, think about the information you want to keep. It is usually expressed to you or by you in the form of a simple sentence. And every sentence can be expressed by one of the forms of the verb 'to be' . . . is, are, will be, was, were . . . Verbs give your information a place in time.

Relationships--Connections

So, what do we have so far? Subject; Verb; Object. What's missing? Only one thing actually, although it's the most important part! The reason you need a database. You want to relate things to other things. You need to connect the Subject to the Object. How 'bout if we call it a Connection? So now we have--Subject; Verb; Connection; and Object.

Here's an example of a simple sentence with the connection "location of"

   Ann Arbor is the location of Quadrangle Software Corporation.

Now, let's say we want to qualify the relationship between the Subject (Ann Arbor) and the Object (Quadrangle Software Corporation).

To specify the stature of Quadrangle's Ann Arbor office, you would enter:

Ann Arbor is the headquarters location of Quadrangle Software Corporation.

You've probably guessed already--headquarters is the Modifier.

Every piece of information you have--names, locations, companies, dates, times, meeting notes, research items, to dos ... all can be expressed by simple sentences like those above.

Field Labels Are Really Categories

One last thing. We also provide a place where you can specify what your Subjects and Objects are--specifically, their labels. These are Categories ... and Categories are the things you used to worry about--fields for which you'd have to create a screen. But here, you simply enter a Category in one spot and it is added to a pull-down list that has no limit.

Install and Go

And obviously, to make things really easy to enter, you don't even have to deal with typing a sentence part into a box and then tabbing to the next box ... and so on. You can enter your information by typing a complete sentence in one spot and A Place For My Stuff will parse it (break it up) into its parts--Subject, Verb, Modifier, Connection, and Object.

For the majority of PC Windows users what could be easier?

You load the software and can start using it right away, and without concern about the content of information you'll receive in the future, information whose form and content you simply can't predict.

Needless to say, there are many other features in A Place For My Stuff that enable you to perform all the tasks you'd expect with a full-function, comprehensive relational database.

A Place For My Stuff ... the place we all have been looking for since kindergarten.

System Requirements: Windows 3. 1; 80286 or higher PC; EGA, VGA or compatible video graphics adapter and monitor; 3.5" drive high-density (1.44 MB) disk drive and hard disk; Mouse; 640k convention + 1024k extended + virtual memory (2048 recommended); 1MB disk space

List Price: $129.00   -----   Street Price: $79.00

Quadrangle Software, Inc.

305 East Eisenhower Pkwy, Suite 208, Ann Arbor, MI 48108

Voice: (313) 769-1675;   Fax: (313) 769-1695


EEBond For Easy Savings Bond Calculations
EEBond Makes Savings Bond Calculations Easy

If you have U.S. savings bonds, do you know how much they're worth?

Because it's hard to calculate the value of the bonds, you could be wrong in your estimates by hundreds of dollars -- too high or too low.

Of the common ways to get the right figures, all have their problems:

* You can pick up a copy of the Tables of Redemption Values from the Bureau of the Public Debt and compute the interest manually. That's time consuming and frustrating.

* You can go to a bank and let the bank do it. That's time consuming and inconvenient.

* You can pay an investment broker. That's expensive.

* Or you can use EEBond. An inexpensive ($20) computer program from MMR Software, EEBond makes the job easy. The program maintains a database of Series EE and Series E bonds and Savings Notes. It computes the value of bonds up to six months in advance.

All you do is enter serial number and date of purchase, and the program takes it from there. EEBond determines the worth of your bonds for the next six months.

To coincide with the publication of the latest tables of redemption values, EEBond is updated every six months. The update, which requires no further data entry, costs $10 to registered users.

EEBond was developed by Frank Leibsly and is sold by MMR Software, P.O. Box 7116, Washington, DC 20044. Compuserve 71001,762.


The Vertical Ergonomic Keyboard
"THE VERTICAL" keyboard has received media attention in Newsweek, Popular Science, Plastics News, EUROTRADE, Byte and Compute Magazines as well as many other trade publications. Also, local ABC-TV and CBS-TV affiliates have run news briefs about the unique design and its advantages.

"THE VERTICAL" is designed to address critical factors which cause Repetitive Motion Injuries in association with computer keyboard usage. It has received endorsements from hand surgeons and clinical orthopaedic therapists as well as from OrthoMed, the Hand Rehabilitation Center of the University of California, San Diego Medical Center. "THE VERTICAL" is the only keyboard which UCSD has approved for testing with its patients.

Our extensive research and work with physicians from the University of California, San Diego Medical Center and OrthoMed, UCSD's Hand Rehabilitation Center has allowed us to design "THE VERTICAL" to be able to:

* Encourage optimal seating positioning (*MOST IMPORTANT)

* Eliminate pronation (downward rotation of the hand and forearm)

* Eliminate arm/shoulder extension

* Adjust to the user's torso width

* Reduce transitional motion (including to use mouse)

* Accommodate the shape and movements of user's hands,

* Increase productivity / decrease fatigue in upper extremities

Ergonomic-Interface Keyboard Systems

P.O. Box  2636, La Jolla, CA 92038

619-454-0000  Tel/Fax


ASPEN Intros Active Color & Faster Notebook
ASPEN INTRODUCES ACTIVE COLOR AND FASTER SPEED

Buffalo, NY - April 2, 1993 -- Aspen Computer, Inc. now has a full line of notebook computers to meet the diverse needs of computer users - from the person who works at home to the high power user that requires portability and the latest innovation in active color. The most recent addition to the Aspen Pro 486 product line is the Aspen Pro 486 CTA, a powerful and speedy notebook with the best active color matrix technology available that makes the display pop out and light up, practically jumping off the screen. The TFT (thin film transistor) development used in the active matrix screen of the Aspen Pro 486 CTA is absolutely the latest in color technology. This machine now packs a double punch with brilliant color and one of the fastest CPU's tested by the major personal computer magazines. The speed is now available in 66 MHz too! With it's built-in fan, this machine can be ordered with a large 240MB hard drive that won't overheat like many flimsy notebooks. The built-in trackball frees up space on the serial ports to add whatever extras the user may need. However, the most important news about this new machine is that is is affordable to those searching for active matrix color. The base list price is only $3,775 for 4MB RAM and 120MB hard drive. The price remains highly competitive in the area of color, powerful notebooks. Simply put, Aspen now offers low priced, active color to brighten up any notebook user's life - adding a brilliant 256 colors along with speed, power and reliability!

Features of Aspen's Pro 486 CTA

* Quality parts make up the inside of this speed demon notebook,

  including an Intel 486 micro processor and Seagate hard drives.

* There are 2 serial ports, 1 parallel port, 1 VGA video port,

  1 numeric keypad port and 1 external keyboard port.

* The large 10" screen has simultaneous display with an external

  SVGA port

* Active matrix (TFT) COLOR display with 256 bright, sharp colors.

Service: It Makes All the Difference at Aspen

Keeping pace with the industry standards, a one year warranty on parts is guaranteed by Aspen. In addition, a new two year warranty on labor is also guaranteed. Field replacements are available if needed and our 24 hour turn around on repair remains one of the best deals in the notebook computer business. Our 800 number ensures customer support during regular working hours Monday through Saturday.

Prices:

4MB RAM             DX-33      DX2-66

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

120MB hard drive   $3,775      $4,175

240MB hard drive    4,025       4,425

8MB RAM

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

120MB hard drive    3,960       4,360

240MB hard drive    4,220       4,620

Specifications:

* Intel 80486 microprocessor

* Speed: 33 MHz or 66 MHz

* Operating System: MS DOS 5.0, OS/2, UNIX or XENIX

* Memory: 4, 8 or 16 MB RAM

* Internal Floppy Drive 1.44MB, 3.5FDD

* 120 or 240MB Hard Drive

* Screen: 10" 256 colors, active matrix (TFT)

* Display: Simultaneous, 1024x768 resolution supports SVGA

* Built-in trackball

ASPEN Computer Inc, 5813 Main St, Suite #10, Buffalo, NY 14221

716-626-0315;  800-472-3273;  fax: 716-626-1541


HealthDesk Personal Wellness Swr for Windows
Introducing HealthDesk Personal Wellness Software for Windows

Berkeley, CA - April 19, 1993 - People today have many reasons to take a more active role in their personal health - skyrocketing health care costs, diminishing access to quality health care, grim statistics for the major health risks, or simply to feel better on an everyday basis. Now there's a software program that can help - HealthDesk.

HealthDesk serves as a single, centralized resource for personal and family health management and education. It is the only program that combines medical records, health data tracking, and health education. Colorful graphics, animations, and an interactive, Windows-based interface make using HealthDesk easy, interesting and fun for all.

Medical Records at Your Fingertips

With medical records in hand, a patient can alert new doctors to pre-existing conditions, keep track of vaccinations, avoid unnecessary treatments, and store emergency medical information. HealthDesk lets the user keep password protected medical files for each family member. To ensure quick access to the right information, HealthDesk organizes record keeping into convenient categories, including Personal Conditions, Family Conditions, Testing, Medications, Symptoms and more. A special financial record manager lets the user track all medical expenses, including insurance deductibles. All records can be output to printed reports.

Multi-Purpose Data Tracking

The purpose of HealthDesk's Managers is to show users the progress of their health endeavors, whether that be losing weight, lowering blood pressure, or exercising. The five Managers that ship with the product - Weight, Stress, Heart Health, Exercise and Women's Health - can be thought of as electronic notebooks with specialized features. Users can note miles, pounds, minutes or other quantities that suit their daily activities. Then, just click on a graph to see a compelling view of their efforts.

The Ultimate Health Education Classroom

HealthDesk fosters the idea that good health depends on the right information as well as the right participation. With links to health topics throughout the program, users can learn about blood flow while logging cholesterol values, or read about knee joints while graphing jogging pace. Users navigate in a non-linear fashion between descriptions, topics, animations and graphics, turning the learning process into an entertaining experience. HealthDesk also provides a directory of many health-related organizations that can answer additional questions.

Pricing and Availability

HealthDesk carries a list price of $99.95 but is available for $59.95 through July 31, 1993. This includes a 60-day money-back guarantee and technical support by phone for all registereed users. For more information, customers can call 800-578-5767 or 510-843-8110; fax to 510-845-8305; or write HealthDesk Corporation, 1801 Fifth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710.

HealthDesk System Requirements

HealthDesk requires Microsoft Windows 3.0 or higher, a 386SX-based computer running at 20 MHz or faster, 2MB RAM and a mouse. 4MB RAM recommended.


SourceSafe Multi-Platform Version Control
Technical Bulletin

Multi-Platform Version Control with SourceSafe

SourceSafe by One Tree Software is designed to be a one point control center for all your code. This commitment extends beyond providing a project-oriented model and an accessible interface. It means that if you port code across different platforms, accessing common files across a heterogeneous network, you need to be able to store those files in SourceSafe and access them from all your operating environments.

This document lists the major software platforms which may be important to your development strategy, and discusses SourceSafe's support for these platforms. Before listing the platforms, however, a few general points should be made.

All SourceSafe versions are 100% compatible with each other.

If you check out a file from the Macintosh, the checkout status will appear on a Windows users' screen. When you update the file back into SourceSafe, the new file (with your changes) may subsequently be checked out to a UNIX machine somewhere else on the network.

SourceSafe interfaces on different platforms are similar to each other, in order to minimize the learning curve.

Of course, each version is also designed to look and act as a user of that environment would expect. When these twin goals come in conflict, the interface standards of the operating system are considered paramount.

With only minor variations, the feature set on all versions of SourceSafe is the same.

Finally--if you are maintaining portable code, SourceSafe's Shared Files feature can enable you to keep track of which modules are used by which versions of your program.

See the technical bulletin "Version Control the SourceSafe Way" for more information about this feature.

DOS

The original version of SourceSafe was a DOS application, and the DOS product has remained an integral part of the product line. SourceSafe for DOS actually consists of two programs: a text-based pop-up interface, and a command-line . The two versions complement each other, providing different ways of accessing the same functionality.

SourceSafe runs under DOS version 3.3 or higher.

Microsoft Windows

SourceSafe 2.0 added a Windows version of SourceSafe, and introduced SourceSafe's graphical interface for the first time. SourceSafe for Windows is not a simple "shell" that spawns a command-line or another product: it is a full Microsoft Windows application, with an interface modeled on the File Manager.

SourceSafe runs under Windows version 3.1 or higher. Because of SourceSafe's advanced interface use, Windows 3.0 is not supported.

Microsoft Windows/NT

Since the July '92 Beta release of the Windows/NT operating system, One Tree Software has been shipping a full 32-bit NT version of SourceSafe. The interface is visually identical to the Windows 3.1 version of SourceSafe, but is a genuine NT application in every respect.

The current shipping version of SourceSafe runs under the March '93 Beta release of the operating system, and will not run on any earlier versions.

The Macintosh

SourceSafe 2.1 added to the PC-based product line a Macintosh version. SourceSafe for the Macintosh is not a standalone application with an interface instead, it is a command-line application that runs inside the Macintosh Programmer's Workshop (MPW). The command-line syntax is identical, in almost all respects, with the command-line used by SourceSafe for DOS. (A later version of SourceSafe will be a standalone Macintosh application with a user interface; however, no date is scheduled for this product.)

SourceSafe is designed to be completely aware of Macintosh-specific issues such as the resource fork, file information (type, creator, flags), and the modification and creation date/time of files. Of course, these attributes may not appear when a file is checked out to another operating system; but they will be maintained faithfully, and restored whenever a file is retrieved to a Macintosh.

SourceSafe runs under Macintosh System 7.0, and requires the Macintosh Programmer's Workshop. (An upcoming release of Think C will support MPW tools, and will therefore provide an alternative way of running SourceSafe. Contact One Tree Software if you need information about obtaining MPW.)

UNIX

As of the date of this writing, the UNIX version of SourceSafe is in Beta testing. It is scheduled to be released in May of 1993. SourceSafe is not a graphical (X-Windows) program; it is a command-line application, using a syntax very similar to that used by SourceSafe for DOS. (A later version of SourceSafe will support a graphical interface; however, there is no scheduled date for this product.)

In its initial release, SourceSafe for UNIX will be available on the following platforms:

* PC versions (SCO, all 5.4 flavors)

* Sun 4

* Sun Sparc (Sun OS and Solaris)

* IBM RS6000

* DecStations (Ultrix)

* HP 700 and 800 series (HPUX).

OS/2

As of the date of this writing, OS/2 2.0 users can run SourceSafe for DOS (both the command-line and the text-based interface) in a compatibility box. Because of SourceSafe's use of 3.1 calls, OS/2 2.0 will not run SourceSafe for Windows.

A native OS/2 port of SourceSafe is scheduled to go into Beta immediately after the UNIX product is released--currently scheduled for May of 1993. This product will consist of both an OS/2 command-line version of SourceSafe, and a Presentation Manager graphical interface. Extended file attributes will be fully supported; they will not appear on any non-OS/2 station, but will be faithfully maintained and restored whenever a file is retrieved to an OS/2 machine. HPFS will also be fully supported.

The target release date of SourceSafe for OS/2 is June, 1993.

One Tree Software, PO Box 11639, Raleigh, NC 27604

Sales 800/397-2323;  Business 919/821-2300;  Fax 919/821-5222


SPFC SQL Accounting for Windows, Release 2.0
SPFC Announces SQL Accounting For Windows, Release 2.0

Madison, NJ - April 20, 1993 - Today, SPFC has announced SQL Accountin for Windows, Release 2.0. SQL Accounting For Windows is an accounting package written for Windows 3.x and LAN SQL databases. The new release is written in Gupta Corporation's SQL Windows 4.0 and will be available in June 1993. The modules available are General Ledger, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Order Entry & Billing, Inventory, Purchasing and Manufacturing. Users and VAR's are attracted to the Windows interface, flexible QBE searches, and the ability to query/report on transaction detail for months after the transaction. Many standard reports and the ability of user defined fields make it easy to install without customization. Additional reports and queries can be written with third party report wrtiers. New features include tool bars, and etched/3D look and support for SQL Server (in addition to Gupta's SQLBase).

SPFC's SQL Accounting For Windows is designed for the following users:

* End Users looking for a full featured LAN accounting system

  running under Windows that would like the flexibility and

  openness that a SQL database provides.

* VAR's wanting a Windows based accounting system to resell

  and customize.

Pricing and Availability

Each module of SQL Accounting for Windows has a suggested retail price of $1,500 for run time or $3,500 for source per network. There are no per user license fees. General Ledger module is required to run the other modules. Payroll will be available third quarter 1993. Limited working copies of the programs are available for $100 per 3 modules for a thirty day trial period.

Distribution

SPFC's SQL Accounting for Windows is available through VARs and through SPFC.

About SPFC

SPFC is a small, privately held company located in Madison, NJ, founded in 1990. SQL Accounting for Windows is their primary product.

SPFC, PO Box 163, Madison, NJ 07940

800-676-SPFC;  Fax: 201-765-0791


Personal Computer Guide to Best Restaurants
The Personal Computer Guide to America's Best Restaurants

The PC Guide to America's Best Restaurants is the first personal computer software program to review, in depth, all of the most interesting restaurants in every major U.S. city, plus London and Paris. The innovative program (that runs on Windows) allows the user to select from over 3,000 restaurants by 24 different cuisine types, by neighborhood location, by price, by name, by best buy, and by quality (star) rating. It calculates the best buy within six separate price categories and displays these recommendations in an instant. America's Best Restaurants was released January 31.

Revised every six months, the price-comparative Guide covers all types of restaurants that are rated from four stars down to one star, and each restaurant is described in detail. Where applicable, a recent, critical review from the local newspaper or magazine is excerpted and added to the detailed description.

The restaurants are rated by a new consensus methodology which combines and averages the opinions of many restaurant critics from national magazines and newspapers such as Gourmet, Food & Wine, Travel & Leisure, The New York Times, etc., and from the local press in each city such as, for example, The Chicago Tribune and Chicago Magazine. Staff reviews are also included and the result is a star rating (from one to four) that is very reliable, and avoids the bias of a single reviewer.

A unique print utility allows the user to print out, with a single command, either a simple listing of rated and price-ranked restaurants for each city, or a complete restaurant guide to any one city.

America's Best Restaurants is sold on a subscription basis at an annual cost of $49.95 which includes the free revision and update that is automatically shipped every six months. A single issue may also be purchased at any time at a cost of $34.95.

For Frequent Travelers: This personal computer guide to rated American restaurants is aimed at the upscale traveler who owns a portable/laptop computer, IBM or compatible, and who travels extensively and entertains frequently. This new software will appeal to sales and marketing executives; presidents and CEOs of small, middle-size and large companies; consultants, lawyers, financial analysis, investment bankers, physicians, dentists, and academics; leisure travelers, and home computer owners.

Much Better Information: A summary of unique product benefits would include instant price comparisons, more information on each restaurant, low cost per city, semi-annual revisions, location searchable program, and the ability to print out any city for a trip. Here are the details:

Costs Less -- Our guide costs considerably less per city than a printed guide, or exactly $1.35 per city when purchased on a subscription basis. And of course a printed guide is bulky to carry, usually out of date the day it is published, and cannot be searched quickly for price and quality-of-service comparisons;

More Up-To-Date -- Our PC Restaurant Guide is completely updated every six months, or four times as ofter as most printed guides. No other guide is revised as completely nor is more up-to-date. Our editors are constantly inputting new information, adding new restaurants and reviews, and deleting those restaurants that have closed;

More Information -- Each restaurant is described in detail, plus there is often incorporated a "critic's comment" that has been excerpted from a recent magazine or newspaper review. In addition, the ambiance and service is rated, and all of the special features are listed including credit cards, entree prices, dress code, reservation policy, hours of operation, valet parking, rated wine cellar and whether the restaurant is located in a hotel;

Instant Price Comparisons -- You save both time and money by utilizing the instantly-displayed price-and-value comparisons that are sorted by cuisine category. There is often a savings of as much as $15.00 between the highest priced restaurant, and the recommended best buys compiled by our editors and the computer program;

Print A Guide -- If you want to print out a listing of restaurants for a friend of colleague, or fax a description of a restaurant to a client, you can print out either a summary listing of ranked restaurants, or a more complete description of all restaurants within a given area. So you can now become an instant authority on restaurants across the country!

Locations Emphasized -- You usually want to locate a good restaurant that is convenient to your hotel or business appointment - something that is difficult unless you know the city. Our guide makes it easy to pinpoint a location and then pick an appropriate downtown, airport or suburban restaurant, or search for the restaurant by name to ascertain its location.

First of Its Kind: This new electronic restaurant guide is the first-of-its-kind in several categories, including the fact that it provides more than twice as much information as any printed guide, and is the only restaurant guide that is updated twice a year. Other "firsts" include the following four features:

* It is the only guide that allows the user to shop for the best value (price vs. quality of food and service) among 24 types of cuisine, and it is the only guide that allows the user to locate a restaurant to fit his/her mood, and budget, within a specific neighborhood or city area;

* It is the first guide that utilizes a dependable, unbiased consensus rating that incorporates and averages, across the board, the opinions of every reputable restaurant reviewer and critic of national standing;

* It is the first personal computer restaurant guide to cover all of the 40 major U.S. destinations, plus London and Paris, in a comprehensive way, i.e., it includes all of the restaurants that have been favorably reviewed by a number of critics;

* There are over 3,000 restaurants included, ranging from the very best (four star) down to the "best buys", which are usually the smaller, ethnic restaurants and bistros.

UNIQUE SELECTION FEATURES: When you need to make an important last-minute decision on which restaurant to choose for lunch or dinner, the following features of "America's Best Restaurants" will make it easy to select the right one:

* Star Rated/Price Ranked: Every restaurant is star-rated from the very best haute cuisine (4 stars) down to the smaller, excellent bistros (1 star). And within each star-rating category, the restaurants are price-ranked from high to low so you can immediately spot the best buy within each star category.

* Twenty-Four Cuisine Types: All restaurants are divided by 24 cuisine types from American to Mediterranean in order that you can easily select the kind of food you want. You can then select a price and quality-of-service range within the cuisine group that fits your mood and budget.

* Specialty Dishes Listed: For the dedicated gourmet, two to three specialty dishes are listed for most restaurants, and special desserts are highlighted when the delivery is truly awesome. Hours open, days closed, prices, credit cards and other important features are always included.

* Critics Comments Included: To assist you in making a final choice from the hundreds of restaurants available (220 restaurants listed for New York City alone!), a recent critical review is excerpted and added to the general description of the restaurants' ambiance, service, decorations, etc. This second opinion may be positive or negative, but it is always taken from a knowledgeable local reviewer who knows the restaurant scene.

EASY-TO-USE PROGRAM: This software is very easy to install and use, with pop-up menus that require only four keys to access and change. There is a printed user guide with each program, plus the same guide is installed under HELP on the diskette. There is also a toll-free user support number (800-645-9777) that can be called for special assistance.

The program runs on any IBM or compatible with 640K memory using DOS 2.0 or higher, and requires a high-density disk drive (1.44MB). The user can choose whether to load the 1.5-megabyte program on the hard disk, or access the data from the floppy drive. There is a special Windows install program that includes a TravelData icon in the program directory, and an alpha search routine that allows you to search for a restaurant by name.

CITIES COVERED: The thirty-nine major U.S. destinations, plus the two most popular foreign destinations (London and Paris) that are covered in great detail by "America's Best Restaurants," are as follows:

Anaheim, Atlanta, Baltimore, Beverly Hills, Boston, Chicago, Century City, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Fort Worth, Hawaiian Islands, Hollywood, Houston, Kansas City, Las Vegas, London, Long Beach, Los Angeles City, Miami, New Orleans, Newport Beach, New York City, Oakland, Orlando, Paris, Pasadena, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Santa Ana, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, St. Louis, Santa Monica, Santa Fe, Seattle, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Washington D.C.

The TravelData Company

1211 Coast Village Rd, Suite 4, Santa Barbara, CA 93108

805-969-8544;  fax: 805-969-8546


IntelliTalk Swr Writing & Communications Tool
IntelliTalk Software Available

IntelliTools Announces New Talking Word-Processor

April 15, 1993--Richmond, Calif.--IntelliTools, Inc., manufacturer of the award-winning IntelliKeys keyboard as announced the release of its new lntelliTalk software program.

IntelliTalk, which is available for both Macintosh and the Apple II family of computers, is a writing and communication tool that talks. This flexible, easy to-use software program speaks letters, words, or sentences tor nothing) as you type. It also allows the user to review what's been written--reading back a sentence, a paragraph, even a whole page. IntelliTalk is ideal for the student who needs a simple talking wordprocessor or for the nonverbal person who wants to use IntelliKeys as a communication device. Each version of IntelliTalk sells for $39.95 and is available from authorized dealers or directly from IntelliTools.

The Macintosh version of IntelliTalk uses Mac's built-in MacinTalk speech-- nothing extra is required. IntelliTalk works in the same way as any standard Macintosh word-processing program. Type, and then use the Font, Size, and Style menus to change the attributes of the text. Open, save, and print documents using selections from the File menu.

IntelliTalk differs from similar products in two important ways. Firstly, it has two very different modes of operation: Pictures Menus and Standard Menus. The Picture Menus mode is perfect for the early writer. Menus have pictures to illustrate what each selection does, and some advanced commands are not displayed, thus providing clear and simple menu choices. With Picture Menus, changing the font, size, style, or color of text affects the entire document immediately, so there's no need to highlight the text first.

Using the Standard Menus mode, the menu pictures are not displayed; more choices are available in the menus; and text must be selected in order to change its font, style, size, or color, allowing the advanced user to create visually complex documents. Additionally, any command available in Standard Menus, but not shown in the Picture Menus, is still available in the Picture Menus mode by using its command-key equivalent.

Secondly, pronunciation can be edited with IntelliTalk. While most speech software programs use a larg number of rules to help them read English, sometimes these rules are insufficient, and words are not pronounced correctly. To compensate for this, IntelliTalk maintains a dictionary of pronunciation exceptions. With this Exception Table, the user can adapt pronunciation so speech is phonetic.

The Apple II version of IntelliTalk works with the Echo speech synthesizer, which is required, but not included. The speech settings (letter, word, sentence) can be combined, or the user can have IntelliTalk remain silent during typing. IntelliTalk for the Apple II works the same as most common Apple II word-processing programs: type and words appear orl the screen; use arrow keys to move through text; use the delete key to delete the previous character. This version also has an Exception Table for editing words to allow phonetic pronunciation.

IntelliTalk takes on additional power when paired with a programmable keyboard such as IntelliKeys or a Unicorn Keyboard (both manufactured by IntelliTools). Used with IntelliKeys and IntelliKeys Overlay Maker (another IntelliTools software product which allows the creation of custom overlays), IntelliTalk makes it possible to create talking communications activities. This feature is particularly useful for the nonverbal person or for use with young students learning to read.

IntelliTools is the new name for Unicorn Engineering, which was founded in 1979. The privately held company designs and manufactures IntelliKeys, the Unicorn Keyboard, and software for the early childhood, education, business, and disabilities markets.

IntelliTools, 5221 Central Ave, Suite 205, Richmond, CA 94804

510-528-0670


RxAutoIcon V2.0 for AutoCAD 12 for Windows
RxAutoIcon Version 2.0 for Windows adds Multi-format Bitmap Support and Superior Display List Performance to AutoCAD Release 12 for Windows

April 16, 1993 -- Atlanta -- RxAutoIcon Version 2.0 for Windows is a fully featured ADI 4.2 compatible display list driver for AutoCAD Release 12 for Windows. Designed to be compatible with any graphics board that is capable of running Microsoft Windows, RxAutoIcon for Windows will accelerate any standard display device by bypassing the Windows Graphics Device Interface (GDI) to reduce graphics bottlenecks inherent within Windows. It is switchable to use either a 16-bit or 32-bit display list for maximum user control.

Furthermore, there are a number of intelligent and co-processed graphics boards that use onboard vector processing chips (e.g. TIGA, S3) to accelerate the redraw and zoom performance; RxAutoIcon for Windows is optimized to use each graphics processor to its maximum capability. Onboard memory is used to store display lists if available, or system memory is used if it is not.

RxAutoIcon for Windows adds complete bitmap support to AutoCAD Release 12 for Windows. Most popular monochrome and color raster image file formats are supported (RLC, TIFF, BMP, GIF, DIB, PCX, RLE, TGA). One color or grayscale bitmap and up to 9 monochrome files can be simultaneously loaded as a backdrop inside the AutoCAD drawing window. Using a dialogue box interface, RxAutoIcon for Windows allows the user to create SETS of files which are stored together for easy matching and retrieval later. Searching and loading raster files is made much easier by having a quickview window within the file manager which displays a preview of the raster file or files before loading.

These raster files can then be scaled simultaneously to match the AutoCAD scale for accurate reference, dimension measuring, and referencing. A number of raster editing tools are provided to clean-up the scanned images for improved image clarity.

Raster file backgrounds are used in a variety of applications: drawing conversion, mapping, and architectural design, for example. Once the raster files are loaded, any AutoCAD command can be used to draw over the images, using them as a reference thereby creating a hybrid raster/vector file. A powerful feature of RxAutoIcon for Windows is the ability to plot the resultant hybrid color/grayscale/monochrome file to any supported Windows output device. The hybrid plotting feature includes an AutoCAD style plot dialogue box. Plot size, scale, and orientation can be set-up and even a partial of full preview can be viewed before plotting.

RxAutoIcon Version 2.0 for Windows' ability to significantly accelerate the standard AutoCAD drawing performance is used to the maximum benefit with a number of unique display tools. Zooming and panning is performed in real-time in most accelerated hardware environments--tools include a magnified cursor with adjustable zoom level, as well as scroll bars for real-time panning around the whole AutoCAD drawing. A birdseye view of the entire drawing also allows for real-time drawing update; the view in the birdseye itself is also user adjustable, depending on existing drawing limits for maximum clarity.

RASTEREX has developed a whole suite of Windows products for use in the engineering document management field, known as RxEDM. Adding RxAutoIcon for Windows to AutoCAD Release 12 for Windows allows it to become part of a complete document management solution for fast search, retrieve, view, distribute, redline, convert and plot of most popular engineering drawings, in both raster and vector formats.

"AutoCAD Release 12 for Windows is the first real Windows CAD program for the serious draftsperson--its only limitations being bitmap support and hardware acceleration," says Darrell Knight, president of Expert Graphics, Inc. "Adding RxAutoIcon for Windows to AutoCAD eliminates those last remaining issues."

RxAutoIcon Version 2.0 for Windows retails for $195.00 and is available through Expert Graphics' channel of authorized dealers and VARS. Expert Graphics Inc. is the sole distributor of RASTEREX graphics products in the U.S. and Canada.

Expert Graphics

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

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


Micro Express MicroFlex-VL Upgradable System
MICRO EXPRESS MICROFLEX-VL UPGRADABLE IS LOW-COST LOCAL BUS CHOICE

Santa Ana, CA..A powerful, yet low-cost VESA-standard local bus PC, which is upgradable from a 386DX/33 all the way to a Pentium microprocessor, is now available from Micro Express. Called the MicroFLEX-VL, this system is the successor to the immensely popular MicroFLEX...the system that allows you to upgrade by merely paying the difference in price between the CPU you now have and the CPU you want.

In addition to the entire range of Intel CPUs, MicroFLEX-VL accepts processors from Cyrix and Advanced Micro Devices. This is also the first upgradable from Micro Express that accepts the 486DX-50 CPU.

The system contains a local bus video card that allows resolutions up to 1280 x 1024 pixels, with high-color (32,768 colors) at up to 1024 x 768, and true-color (64.8 million colors) at a resolution of 640 x 480.

A typical MicroFLEX-VL/486DX/33 system contains: 4-MB of RAM; 256K of RAM cache; a 120-MB fast hard disk; 486DX-33 CPU; VESA local bus graphics card; both 5-1/4" and 31/2" high-density floppy disk drives; 14" SVGA Color monitor; mouse; 101-type keyboard; DOS 6.0; and Windows 3.1. The cost for this typical system is $1680.

For an additional $25 each, PFS:WindowWorks Version 2 and PFS:Publisher for Windows will be bundled with the system.

MicroFLEX-VL is housed in a mini-tower case, measuring 7.1"[W] x 14.6"[H] x 18.25"[D]. The case has provision for three accessible 5-1/4" disk drives, one accessible 3-1/2" disk drive, two internal 3-1/2" disk drives and one internal 5-1/4" disk drive. The proprietary, motherboard has eight expansion slots, including two 32-bit VESA local bus slots, five 16-bit slots and one 8-bit slot. Up to 32-MB of RAM are supported on the motherboard.

The excellent AMI BIOS, with password protection and selectable shadowing of both system and video BIOS, is used and 256K of direct-mapped, write-back RAM cache is included. A CMOS clock-calendar is included, as are built-in diagnostics.

The Finest Available Customer Support

A full 2-year warranty is included on parts and labor for this PC, with shipping for the first 4 months paid both ways by Micro Express, as well as a 30-day moneyback guarantee. Optional on-site service, through GE, is also available. If a part fails, Micro Express offers 24-hour express board replacement service. As with all other Micro Express computers, this machine is burned in for 72 hours before shipping to eliminate early failures. In addition, a toll-free number is provided for free unlimited technical support. Technical support is available 24-hours per day and 7-days per week as part of the exclusive Micro Express "Always" customer support program. When technical documents are required, Micro Express offers Automated FAX-back Service. Using this service, documents can be requested through voice-mail and will be FAXed directly to the customer without human intervention.

The MicroFLEX-VL is available now, direct from Micro Express.

Micro Express is an award-winning manufacturer of notebook, laptop, portable and desktop microcomputers that are fully IBM compatible. Micro Express offers extremely high quality and a wide range of additional features at a very competitive price. Micro Express personal computers are regularly rated at the top of comparative reviews in computer trade magazines, having won such honors as PC Magazine Editors' Choice, PC World Best Buy, Computer Buyer's Guide Best Buy, BYTE Magazine One-To-Watch, PC Week Analyst's Choice and many others. The company also offers a selection of high-performance add-in peripheral boards and monitors.

For further sales information, contact Micro Express at 1801 Carnegie Ave., Santa Ana, CA 92705 . Phone: (714) 852-1400 or (800) 989-9900.


PCs Made Easy, Second Edition
New Edition of PCs Made Easy -- A Plain & Simple Bestselling Introduction to Computers

Berkeley, CA -- Revised to cover the latest advances in personal computer technology, PCs Made Easy ($19.95, ISBN:0-07-881929-6, 438 pages) has been released in a new second edition by Osborne/McGrawHill. Author James Turley has once again kept his book refreshingly free of jargon and buzzwords as he explains the world of personal computers including IBM PCs, PC compatibles, and Macintosh computers. The book is written for anyone new to computers who wants to understand what a personal computer is, and what it can do. "My goal is to dispel fears and bring readers to a basic level of computing confidence and competence. The book is written to educate both the curious, and the person who has had a computer thrust upon them in the workplace," says Turley.

Tens of thousands of readers enjoyed the first edition's friendly tone and clear question-and-answer format which made PCs Made Easy a bestselling guide. "I've received a lot of feedback from readers of the first book. I've incorporated their suggestions, and wrote This book with those readers in mind," says Turley.

With the help of a wealth of illustrations for easy understanding, the second edition will have readers exploring the anatomy and capabilities of a computer, including the functions of memory, disks, files, and programs.

Turley also explains how operating systems and popular software applications work including word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.

PCs Made Easy. Second Edition also devotes sections to explaining the basics of printing procedures, networks, multimedia, online services, and special hardware. Turley even provides valuable tips on shopping for a computer and applications that suit individual needs.

While advances in technology may make personal computing seem more daunting than ever, PCs Made Easy. Second Edition provides novices with a solid footing to enter this exciting new world.

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

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


The Space Quest Companion, Second Edition
Questbusters Get Answers, Score Points & Kick Cosmic Butt With Osborne's Second Edition of The Space Quest Companion

Berkeley, CA -- Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of The Space Quest Companion, Second Edition, ($19.95, ISBN: 0-07-881959-8, 384 pages) a new book in the Silicon Valley imprint covering computer entertainment software. Written by writer, broadcaster, EMMY award winner and bestselling author, Peter Spear, and his son, Jeremy Spear, this new second edition covers Sierra's Space Quest Games I-V.

For readers baffled by the wild adventures of space janitor, Roger Wilco, The Space Quest Companion answers questions and solves problems while exploring all five games and helping guestbusters score a maximum number of points. Space Quest fans are sure to love the book's step-by-step walk-throughs with screen shots showing how to score big points, along with charts showing all the ways to score points. The Space Quest Companion provides guestbusters with complete maps for all the games, original stories in Roger's own words, sanity saving tips, and much more.

Readers will enjoy the Spears' entertaining coverage of The Sarien Encounter, Vohaul's Revenge, The Pirates of Pestulon, Roger Wilco and the Time Rippers, and Roger Wilco in the Next Mutation.

With the second edition of The Space Quest Companion in hand, readers will have all the answers they need to kick some cosmic butt.

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

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


WordPerfect Presentations 2 Made Easy
WordPerfect Presentations 2 Made Easy -- New Hands-on Guide To WordPerfect's Outstanding Graphics Software

Berkeley, CA -- Osborne/McGraw-Hill announces publication of Steve Dyson's WordPerfect Presentations 2 Made Easy ($19.95, ISBN: 0-07881915-6, 548 pages) covering both the DOS & Windows version of WordPerfect Presentations.

After just a few chapters, this new book will have readers creating high-impact flyers, newsletters, business graphics and more, even those who have never used the product before.

By following the book's step-by-step directions, readers can expect to get a firm grasp of using the drawing and editing tools by following clear examples, illustrations, and helpful exercises. Users can then explore the best techniques for using text and font features,- and adding graphics to WordPerfect documents: learn to create exciting graphs and charts in minimal time; take advantage of the multitude of ideas and samples which can be easily adapted and customized; and much more. Dyson offers insights into producing slide shows, and discusses how to use the program as an alternative to desktop publishing. Readers will also benefit from complete information on printers, color output devices and on-line slide services.

Creating memorable presentations needn't be time-consuming or confusing. WordPerfect Presentations 2 Made Easy will help Presentation users produce results they can be proud of in no time.

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

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


FuturVideo EditLink for Videotape Editing
FutureVideo Brings A/B Roll Time Code Editing To Low-End VTRs

ALISO VIEJO, CALIFORNIA, USA, 1st APRIL 1993--FutureVideo revolutionizes videotape editing with the industry's most accurate and affordable computer-based A/B Roll edit control systems--specifically designed for use with low-end industrial and consumer-grade VCRs & camcorders.

Dubbed the EditLink 3300 series, the 3 VTR control systems for NTSC or PAL/SECAM applications support various combinations of VTRs fitted with either a Panasonic 5-pin (including AG-1960, AG-1970, NV-FS88, FS200) or a Sony Control-L/LANC terminal-- irrespective of tape format. EditLink 3300 series controllers may be used with Macintosh, Amiga, or IBM compatible personal computers. Single-event A/B Roll software diskettes for each of these computer platforms are included with the controller--FREE.

Housed in an attractive compact enclosure displaying constant system status information, EditLink 3300 series controllers connect to the computer via an RS-232C interface. Three independent programmable GPI triggers are fitted to enable similarly-equipped switchers and SEGs (including the Video Toaster, Panasonic WJ-MX50, or a WJ-MX12 with a retrofitted GPI trigger) to be activated by the controller. Thanks to FutureVideo's exclusive "multi-tasking" design, EditLink 3300 controllers are able to remain in direct communication with all 3 VTRs--simultaneously--thereby dramatically reducing the time required to perform an A/B Roll edit. By simply not connecting the "B Source" VTR, EditLink 3300 series controllers may also be used for straight "cuts-only" editing.

According to Stephen Godfrey, FutureVideo's Vice President of Marketing & Sales, "End-users seeking to perform AJB Roll edits with 'prosumer' equipment have attempted all manner of eccentric approaches, the results of which have tended to be underwhelming in the extreme. With our new EditLink 3300 controllers, precise 3 VTR control is a snap. Users may now perform accurate, professional-grade A/B Roll edits--and stay within their budgets. By late summer of this year, EditLink 3300 users will have multiple-event A/B Roll software available to them as an upgrade for all three computer platforms. Mr Godfrey concluded, "3rd party software developers wishing to provide VTR control to their products will quickly appreciate the 'developer friendliness' of EditLink 3300's advanced TCC protocol."

FutureVideo's EditLink 3300 series presently comprises two models, both of which read Sony's Hi8 RC Time Code (RCTC). EditLink 3300's Suggested USA List Price is $1295. EditLink 3300/TC, listing at only $1795, also reads SMPTE/EBU (LTC) time code from all three VTRs, yielding accuracy typically within 1 frame.

FutureVideo has been an award-winning manufacturer of edit control systems since 1986.

FutureVideo Products Inc

28 Argonaut, Suite 150, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

714-770-4416;  fax: 714-770-4667


WinInstall Windows Swr Distribution System
New Windows Software Distribution System Uses Electronic Mail

April 16, 1993 -- Aleph Takoma Systems, Inc., of Takoma Park, MD, announces the release of WinInstall 3 0, a complete software distribution system for Windows applications. Designed to enable network administrators to install, remove, and upgrade Microsoft Windows application software without dispatching technicians to each PC on the LAN, WinInstall offers three complementary methods of software installation:

1. Users can run an interactive application allowing them to choose applications to install or remove with foolproof simplicity.

2. WinInstall can automatically check each user's configuration at Windows startup, installing any new applications automatically, or terminating itself without ever becoming visible if no new applications are available.

3. Administrators can send installations, removal, or upgrades as attachments to electronic mail messages. Upon receipt of these messages, users simply double-click on the attachments to perform the desired operation.

WinInstall is extremely flexible, allowing administrators to control access to applications, to display custom messages, and to call external programs before and/or after the installation or removal process. The program can also optionally log all activities to a central log file.

Formerly called WINSTALL and N.A.I., WinInstall 3.0 provides numerous enhancements and additional capabilities over earlier versions. Priced at $495 per file server for unlimited users, WinInstall is available direct from Aleph Takoma Systems, at 7319 Willow Avenue, Takoma Park, MD 20912, (301) 270-4458, FAX: (301) 270-6710, CompuServe 71371,635.


VideoPacker Video Capture & Compression
VideoPacker Video Capture And Compression

Video Packer is a new board from VIC HI-Tech company that brings real time capturing, compressing and storing of video images to a standard PC. Video Packer is capable of capturing full motion video, at 30 frames per second, from video cassette recorders, laser disk players, video cameras or TV and displaying it on a standard VGA monitor. It is also fully compatible with NTSC, PAL, SCAM and S-video signals. Video Packer has unique performance enhancing features beyond what its competitors offer, some of which are mentioned below:

Video Packer consists of two boards. The Motherboard is used to capture and display images and offers most of the features that similar products in the market offer. The daughter board, however, is where Video Packer is different from the rest. It adds real time, video and storage, compression /decompression capability. The daughter board mounts directly onto the motherboard. hence, using one less slot in the PC and improving internal processing speed.

The compressed video can be played back from a laser disk player at 30 frames per second with 640x480 resolution. Normally, signals from TV and camcorders have display resolution of 320x240 pixels. Higher quality images such as 1024x1024 can be achieved by modifying the standard software, with direct application to corporate teleconferencing.

Video Packer is capable of displaying images in multiple window sizes of 640x480 and 320x240. It, also, allows for high resolution capture of single frame still video and is compatible with most image file formats such as Targa, TIFF, PCX, GIF, and BMP.

Video Packer's motherboard design is based on Chips and Technology's PC-video chip and the daughter board design is based on the C-Cube Microsystems's CL550 chip. Areas of application for Video Packer are considered to be in desktop publishing, pre-production editing, teleconferencing, cable TV, high quality video transmission through T1 lease lines, presentations, and training.

VideoPacker Kit I, including both boards, is priced at $1399. For a limited time VIC is offering VideoPacker motherboard bundled with teleconferencing and image compression software for the price of $499. For additional information, contact VIC at (310)-643-5193 or send your Fax to (310)-643-7572. Please send the mail to 2221 Rosecrans Ave. #237, El Segundo, CA. 90245.


Automated Image Management System
AIMS

Automated Image Management System

April 3, 1993 -- Automated Image Management System (AIMS) is VIC Hi-Tech corporation's integrated system solution to the document processing needs of modern offices at an affordable price. AIMS is the closest the idea of a paperless office has ever come to. The system allows users to process documents interactively or by batch. AIMS electronic filing is as easy as scanning documents. Transferring and retreiving the documents are as easy as clicking a mouse. In the batch mode AIMS will process up to 400 pages per hour or 3200 pages per day. All the information in this 3 foot high pile of paper can be stored in an optical disk the size of a pocket dictionary. This stored information is always available to the user through a fast search mode in an advanced DBMS running on a LAN.

The list of AIMS sophisticated features is impressive. Some of AIMS features include 12 page per minute scanning, automatic processing in batch mode, automatic document ID recognition using sophisticated OCR. fast printing capability with VIC's optional printer accelerator card and software, on the fly image compression. audio warnings and instructions, and a sophisticated relational database system which provides immediate access to the image files in the system. For developers and system integrators VIC offers the DLL for Windows 3.1.

AIMS comes with VIC's 486 50 PC/AT, 300 MB hard disk, SVGA monitor 14" or 17", and Microsoft Windows 3.1. AIMS supports Multi-user LANs including Novell, LANmanager, Token ring, and other NetBios compatible systems.

AIMS is an advanced document image processing system which is designed to handle the heavy duty needs of today's office environment. The good news is that with all its processing capabilities AIMS costs only a fraction of the price of comparable systems. In addition to all the standard features offered with the system, VIC will tailor AIMS to a customer's specific application and back this unique service with strong technical support.

For additional information, contact VIC at (310)-643-5193 or send your Fax to (310) 643-7572. Please send the mail to 2221 Rosecrans Ave. #237, El Segundo, CA. 90245.


Two New Ventana Titles Render AutoCAD Expertise

CHAPEL HILL, N.C.--Computer Aided Design has become a proven means to higher productivity in every field it touches. Two new books from Ventana Press, The AutoCAD 3D Companion: The Illustrated Guide to AutoCAD's Third Dimension--For Release 12 and Outside AutoCAD: A Non-Programmer's Guide to Managing AutoCAD's Database, introduce users to the latest refinements in this premier design program.

"Outside AutoCAD removes the 'AutoCAD Database Mystique' that often stands in the way of the customization the average user would like to do," says author Dale Evans. The book's hands-on examples illustrate database elements and introduce AutoLISP functions as database tools. Sections include:

* A thorough overview of the AutoCAD for Windows Extension (AWE).

* Information on accessing and managing external data with

  AutoCAD's SQL Extension (ASE).

* Customizing applications with Proteus, AutoCAD's new GUI.

* Creating applications with the AutoCAD Development System

  (ADS).

Five appendices, including a database listing, a dialogue box library of commands, ASE command definitions and DDE references, augment each section of the book.

Outside AutoCAD author Dale Evans has been a registered AutoCAD developer since 1986. He wrote The PC-DOS Mini Series, a three-volume short course and reference guide for PC users, and is a columnist for CADence and MicroCAD News (now DesignNet).

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"Three dimensional modeling is the basis for Computer Aided Manufacturing and photorealistic rendering," says George Head, author of the new The AutoCAD 3D Companion. "With Release 12, AutoCAD is a true 3D database." The AutoCAD 3D Companion teaches everything needed to draw effectively in 3D, including:

* How AutoCAD's 3D interface works.

* Using the User Coordinate System (UCS).

* Viewing models with DVIEW and VPOINT.

* Working with surfaces.

* Plotting with Paper Space.

After a series of tutorials on tools, the book walks readers through the development of complete mechanical and architectural models. Special emphasis is given to the 3D Toolkit, with 52 ready-to-run AutoLISP programs designed to give the most productivity possible while working in 3D.

Author George O. Head owns Associated Market Research, a business and management consulting firm for architects and engineers. He has written AutoLISP in Plain English and The AutoCAD Productivity Book and coauthored 1,000 AutoCAD Tips & Tricks (all from Ventana Press).

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Outside AutoCAD: A Non-Programmer's Guide to Managing AutoCAD's Database is softcover, 7 3/8" X 9 1/4", 360 pages with illustrations. Suggested retail price: $29.95. ISBN: 1-56604-041-8. Companion diskette: $49.95.

The AutoCAD 3D Companion: The Illustrated Guide to AutoCAD's Third Dimension--For Release 12 is softcover, 7 3/8" X 9 1/4", 600 pages with illustrations. Suggested retail price: $27.95. ISBN: 1-56604-042-6. Companion diskette: $49.95.

Other Release 12 titles in the Ventana Press AutoCAD Reference Library include AutoLISP in Plain English, Solid Modeling With AutoCAD, 1,000 AutoCAD Tips & Tricks, The AutoCAD Productivity Book and AutoCAD: A Concise Guide to Commands & Features. Companion diskettes for all titles are available separately. Ventana Press publishes books and other materials that help computer users become more productive, including Voodoo DOS, Voodoo Windows, Looking Good With CorelDRAW and Desktop Publishing With Word for Windows. All titles are available in bookstores and through Ventana Press, P.O. Box 2468, Chapel Hill, NC 27515; 919/942-0220; FAX, 919/942-1140


DTQ V2.0 Concentration Type Memory Game
Roger D. Hamilton of Inverness, UK announces Version 2 release of his DTQ shareware memory game and typing aid.....

DTQ V2.00 CONCENTRATION TYPE MEMORY GAME - VGA ONLY. Play the computer over 31 stages matching ICONS, COLOR SPOTS or NUMBERS, 9 pairs to 18 quads, or choose any one of 1,400 option combinations to configure DTQ with its simple Integral SETUP Procedure. Ideal for Touch Typists or learners. Options include: Full keyboard, cursor keys, 4 levels, 5 difficulties, alternate moves, matchplay, cheat, concealed computer moves, pairs, threes, fours. Math coprocessor an advantage on 16MHz computer speed or less.

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DTQ VERSION 2 - APRIL 1993

New features and improvements over previous versions

Presentation more immediate and to the point, making the program options much more accessible to the user; forced sequence of mini-menus scrapped, along with introductory screens (bar title), instructions sequence and other things.

ALL OPTIONS now configurable using INTEGRAL SETUP PROCEDURE allowing the user to quickly choose the type of game preferred for immediate use on loading, or to experiment with. 1,440 pertinent option combinations available.

The graphics are generally improved with sound and jokey comments added.

A function key display, AT LEVEL ONE ONLY, helps the user become familiar with program control. Option and configuration menus added making DTQ very easy to implement.

To counter program disruption due to user removing disk, if DTQ is run from floppy, the error routine is improved to keep control within the program, as is correction of corrupted data file (DTQ.DAT). Similar touches have been added to the rest of the program.

Documentation also drastically reduced to allow the complete package to be compressed to less than 100K. Files now only 10 in number.

Roger D. Hamilton

"CRAIGARD"

Dalcataig

GLENMORISTON

Iverness IV3 6YG

United Kingdom

Telephone(UK): 0320 51282;  International: +44 320 51282


Links Championship Courses - BANFF
Links CHAMPIONSHIP COURSES Just CONTINUE to MULTIPLY!

BANFF, in the Canadian Rockies, joins the Links lineup to become the third Super VGA course!

Naturally, every Championship Course is compatible with all versions of LINKS: Links, Links 386 Pro, and Microsoft Golf

TEE TIME IN THE ROCKIES!

Access Software Inc. is excited to announce the release of its first Canadian course, the magnificent Banff Springs. There are few courses anywhere in the world that can compare to this design of Stanley Thompson. Banff Springs has been rated among the worlds best courses for over 80 years. This course, being over a mile high, and nestled in the Rockies offers almost indescribable beauty. This is nature at its best. In Canada, you can only play Banff between May 1 and October 15, but as a LINKS Championship Course you may play year round! The course is now shipping with a suggested retail price of $29.95.

LINKS, LINKS 386 Pro, and Microsoft Golf were all designed to easily incorporate these add-on Championship Courses. Once the course is installed, the LINKS player needs only to select the desired course by clicking on the mouse button. New courses are in development and will be released about every TEN weeks throughout 1993. Access Software was awarded the prestigious Software Publishers Association (SPA) Excellence in Software Award for LINKS last year, was recently awarded another SPA award for the LINKS CHAMPIONSHIP COURSES, and just awarded the 1993 SPA award for LINKS 386 PRO!!!.

Access Software

4910 W. Amelia Earhart Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84116

801-359-2900;  fax: 801-359-2968


Primera Low$ Thermal Transfer Color Printer
FARGO INTRODUCES A NEW LOW-COST THERMAL TRANSFER COLOR PRINTER

EDEN PRAIRIE, MN - The first thermal transfer color printer at a cost below that of ink jet was recently announced by FARGO Electronics, Incorporated.

The new Primera Color Printer delivers full-color page printing from all IBM-PC's and compatible computers running Microsoft Windows 3.1 (or higher). Suggested retail price is $995.00, which is $100.00 less than Hewlett Packard's DeskJet 550C ink jet printer and three times lower than the currently least expensive thermal transfer color printer.

"This is the first major advance in the price and performance of color printers in a long time," said Mark D. Strobel, FARGO's Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "Primera is the first color thermal transfer printer that combines high quality performance with a low price, making the superior output qualities of thermal transfer finally attractive to the mass market."

FARGO enters the mainstream PC market from its position as one of the world's leading suppliers of bar code printers used by manufacturers to print labels and tags. The same state-of-the-art thermal transfer technology used in FARGO's bar code printers is also utilized in its new Primera Color Printer.

The market for desktop color printers is expected to triple to more than $2.8 billion in 1995 from about $987 million today, according to BIS Strategic Decisions, a leading computer industry research firm. BIS projects that the market will grow 27 percent annually over the next five years from a base of about 150,000 desktop color printers which are expected to be sold in 1992.

FARGO demonstrated its Primera Color Printer for the first time at Fall COMDEX 1992. Deliveries of the new color printer began January 1, 1993 .

In addition to its low initial cost, Primera is far less expensive to operate than many other color printers. Primera's cost per page is a constant $.45. With 25% page coverage or more, Primera's cost is less expensive than ink jet. At 50% to 100% page coverage, which is common in business presentation graphics, cost per page is up to three times less than ink jet.

Primera is also much faster than the leading ink jet printers. A full page with 100% coverage is printed in just over two minutes, compared with four to seven minutes for the same page using ink jet.

This significant price/performance breakthrough is a result of FARGO's 15 years of experience as a printer manufacturer and its decision to streamline the printer by omitting 3 such costly and often unnecessary features as PostScript, multiple resident fonts, high-powered processors and large banks of RAM memory. In particular, PostScript was eliminated because Primera is a Windows GDI printer that supports True Type fonts.

"We use the computing power of today's PCs and the Windows' operating system to perform all of the complex, processor-hungry and RAM intensive tasks. The result of this approach is a high quality color printer that performs 100% of the tasks required by 95% of most business graphics applications," Strobel said.

The Primera Color Printer is targeted at the estimated 10 to 12 million Windows users who use graphs, diagrams, pie charts, illustrations and other graphics for use as presentation materials or overhead transparencies.

"In addition to business - our largest potential market - there has been a great deal of interest in Primera among advertising agencies and smaller design firms that do not need the extra features built in to all of the other thermal transfer printers," Strobel said.

A software driver for Windows 3.1 is included with every Primera Color Printer, enabling business people to begin using the machine immediately with no complicated setup. Primera prints on both letter and A4-size paper and transparencies. The printer uses a wax-based thermal ink ribbon for color applications. A monochrome ribbon is also available for economical text-only printing.

Primera will be initially distributed nationally by three distributors: Ingram Micro, Inc. (Santa Ana, CA), Robec Distributors (Horsham, PA), and Wynit, Inc. (Syracuse, NY). FARGO has also established a toll-free information and dealer referral number: 1-800-FARGO-22 (1-800-327-4622).

The Company

Incorporated in 1978 in Fargo, North Dakota, privately-held FARGO Electronics is a leading U.S.-based printer manufacturer with distribution in the United States, Canada, and over 50 other countries. Its first printers were built specifically for use with electronic scales. In 1989, the company introduced its Prodigy and Prodigy Plus bar code printers. Almost all of its sales have been through OEM and distributor channels. Today, the company enjoys an estimated 50% market share of the bar code printer market.

FARGO Electronics, 7901 Flying Cloud Dr, Eden Prairie, MN 55344


MOVING FROM COBOL TO C

DP Managers and COBOL programmers will be pleased to hear about one of the latest releases from the SAMS Division of Prentice Hall. "Moving from COBOL to C" is a book especially designed to teach 'C' to programmers who are already conversant with COBOL.

Besieged by a growing number of COBOL programmers who wanted to learn 'C' but who had dropped out of various courses or were left behind by books that took giant leaps in assuming the programmer knew something not covered in the book, the author, Mo Budlong decided to try a new approach. By using concepts that are familiar to COBOL programmers and by comparing and illustrating the differences and similarities to 'C' code, he builds a solid base to successfully approach and master concepts alien in COBOL programming.

"Moving from COBOL to C" is available from King Computer Services, Inc., PO Box 728, Tujunga, CA 91043-0728. (818) 951-5240 (FAX 818-353-1278)


SourceSafe Project Oriented Version Control
Product Description: SourceSafe

Project Oriented Version Control

SourceSafe by One Tree Software is a "project oriented version control system."  SourceSafe doesn't try to write your program for you: it takes care of your maintenance and tracking responsibilities, freeing you up to concentrate on programming.

More specifically, using SourceSafe can enhance your development productivity in five principal ways.

1. Team Coordination

When more than one person is working together on a project, how do you keep track of who is doing what, when? If several developers attempt to modify the same file at the same time, they might wind up overwriting each other's changes! That can be disastrous. But policies to prevent it can be costly, inefficient, and difficult to enforce. And the more programmers you have, the greater the inefficiency!

Unless, that is, you use SourceSafe. With SourceSafe, each developer "checks out" a file before modifying it. Other developers still have access to the file, but they cannot check it out for modification. When the programmer is finished working on the file, he updates it back into SourceSafe, making the latest version immediately available to everybody. This simple system requires no time-consuming overhead, enforces itself, and provides an error-proof guarantee that one person will be modifying one file at one time.

2. File and Project Histories

The name "version control" refers specifically to a product's ability to store old versions of a file. If you've updated a file ten times, SourceSafe can give you the most recent version, or any of the previous nine. But that doesn't mean it's storing your file ten times! SourceSafe stores the most recent version of your file, and the changes you made each time you updated it--so your ten versions probably use less disk space than two complete files would. And SourceSafe version tracking works on all your files: code, makefiles, bitmaps, resource files, literally any text or binary file can be tracked by SourceSafe.

But SourceSafe goes beyond simple file histories, and tracks the history of entire projects as well! Suppose a customer with version 2.00b of your program finds a bug, and you need to rebuild version 2.00b. No problem--because SourceSafe has recorded every time you changed, deleted, added, or renamed a file in the project, so it can hand you exactly what you had in the project at that time. Just build your program and start hunting!

3. Shared Code

If you write a number of programs around a common base of "core code"; if you customize one program for different customers' needs; or if you write in an object-oriented language such as C++; then you know the power of reusable code. You can add a feature to one shared module, and immediately get the benefit in five different programs.

But you also know the organizational issues: you have to remember what programs are using each file, and propagate every change to all the necessary places! The more complex your development gets, the more effort you have to put in keeping track of which programs use which modules. That's why SourceSafe has built-in support for shared code. It works like this: you tell SourceSafe which programs use a particular file. Then, SourceSafe remembers it.

Sound simple? It is. But it's also SourceSafe's most powerful feature, and the reason the program was written in the first place. Because when you change a file, you only need to change it in one place; SourceSafe makes sure all the appropriate projects receive the update. And it can list all those projects at any time, if (for instance) you want to know which programs to recompile. This simple feature makes SourceSafe the first version control system ever to truly support modular code.

4. Accessible Interfaces

You've got programs to write, deadlines to meet and customers to worry about. The last thing you need from your version control system is one more thing to worry about, a day-long installation process and tedious employee training sessions.

That's why SourceSafe is as easy to use as it is powerful. Microsoft Windows 3.1 and NT users can run a SourceSafe interface which is modeled on the Windows File Manager; DOS users can run a text-based version of the same interface! And the DOS command-line version of SourceSafe is simple and straightforward, with no obscure parameters required for common actions. The net result is that you can install SourceSafe in under fifteen minutes, and each user can learn the basics of the system in less than half an hour with the SourceSafe User's Manual. So SourceSafe immediately becomes a part of your work--not an interruption to it.

5. The One Tree Guarantee

Once you start using SourceSafe, it will become an integral part of your development process. You may wonder how you ever got along without it. Before you make any decision that important, you need to know you won't regret it. That's why with One Tree Software, you always have the guarantees you need to feel absolutely secure.

What if there's a problem with SourceSafe, or a feature you don't understand? We don't want to make money from your problems. That's why we offer free, unlimited technical support to all registered SourceSafe users.

But what if SourceSafe still doesn't meet your needs? Simple: return it, and we'll send your money back. No questions asked, and no time limit either. Because if you're not completely satisfied with SourceSafe, it's not doing its job.

It all adds up to a simple philosophy: you need long-term solutions to important development questions, and those solutions depend on the company that stands behind the product. One Tree Software is 100% committed to meeting all your needs, and to providing a level of customer service and support which matches the high level of quality in our products themselves.

One Tree Software, PO Box 11639, Raleigh, NC 27604

Sales 800/397-2323;  Business 919/821-2300;  Fax 919/821-5222


CD-ROM Driver Support for Kodak Photo CD Ready
CD-ROM Driver Support for Kodak Photo CD Ready to Roll

OMI Driver Allows Macintosh Users to Access Photo CD Discs

San Francisco, CA (January 3, 1993) - Optical Media International (OMI) today announced that it has developed a new version of its OMCD device driver enabling Macintosh CDROM drives to read Kodak Photo CD compact discs. This software allows users of the popular Kodak Photo CD technology to access, manipulate, and use Photo CD electronic images via the many tools available on the Macintosh for imaging, desktop publishing, multimedia, and presentation graphics. OMCD even supports playback of "multi-session" Photo CDs (discs that have had photographic images recorded in several stages) on drives, such as the Toshiba XM-3301, whose hardware supports this kind of playback. Until Version 1.5 of OMCD was developed, there has been a lack of generally available CD-ROM drivers supporting access of Photo CD discs. The retail price for OMCD 1.5 is $79 with quantity discounts; OMCD is available for OEM licensing as well.

The many features of OMCD 1.5 make it particularly valuable due to the breadth of applications currently finding their way to compact discs. OMCD supports playback of both audio and data contained on CDs. Control of audio volume and the ability to read important fields on CDs that are normally inaccessible such as the Media Catalog Number (MCN) and the Standard Recording Code (SRC) are also featured in OMCD 1.5. The OMCD driver supports "Foreign File Access" as defined by Apple. This feature in the Macintosh operating system allows for support of non-HFS CDs by format-specific "access files" stored in the system folder. Currently, there are four types of foreign access: Audio CD, High Sierra, ISO 9660, and Apple Photo (for Photo CD).

CD-ROM drives for the Macintosh supported by OMCD 1.5 include the AppleCD SC, AppleCD SC Plus, AppleCD SC 150, Toshiba XM-2100A, Toshiba XM-3301BC, Sony CDU-6111, Sony CDU-6121, Denon DRD-253, and the Hitachi CDR-1553S. OMCD also supports the Kodak PCD Writer 200 and the Philips CDD-521 CD Recorders in playback mode.

Optical Media International is a privately held firm headquartered in Los Gatos, California, founded in 1985. A pioneer in the CD-ROM industry, OMI developed the first PC-based CD-ROM premastering system, the first PC-based multiformat CD recording system, the first Macintosh-based CD premastering and CD recording system, and the first CD-ROM XA premastering system.

Optical Media International

180 Knowles Drive, Los Gatos, California 95030

(408) 376-3511; fax: 408-376-3519


QuickTOPiX CD Publishing & Premastering Swr
Hybrid Compact Disc Recording System to Ship

OMI System Streamlines CD Production, Distribution and Purchase

San Jose, California (March 30, 1993) - Optical Media International (OMI) today announced that it will ship in April a version of its Macintosh line of QuickTOPiX CD publishing and premastering software that will produce a CD with a "hybrid" file system. The hybrid format, a combination of the Macintosh Hierarchical File System (HFS) and the ISO 9660 cross-platform standard, allows CDs to be read on Macintoshes, PCs and other computers via the most popular file system for each platform.

The hybrid CD format removes one of the major bottlenecks in the development, marketing, and use of compact discs, namely the need to produce a Macintosh-specific CD for Apple users and a second, cross-platform CD for other users. This requirement was a major effort and expense for developers who had to produce dual discs, for distribution channels that had to stock both formats, and for end-users who had to be concerned with compatibility.

Though the ISO 9660 format is readable via Apple Computer's "Foreign File Access," Macintosh users prefer to access compact discs via the Macintosh native file system, HFS. HFS provides Macintosh users such benefits as long file names and informative icons. On the other hand, PC users and most UNIX users prefer to read CDs through the ISO 9660 file system.

The availability of the hybrid CD format via OMI's TOPiX CD Recording system and the new double-speed CD Recorders from Philips, Sony and Kodak, users can now affordably produce compact discs that can be read in virtually any CD-ROM drive attached to a DOS, Macintosh, or UNIX computer. Pricing for the CD Recorder and OMI's software start at $8,500.

The TOPiX line of CD publishing and premastering software has a multiplatform architecture. With current OMI products, users can choose the platform that best suits their needs for developing, testing, premastering, and creating CDs. In addition to creating Write Once CDs that can be used for limited quantity business communication and testing or sent for mastering and replication, QuickTOPiX also supports CD simulation and the creation of industry-standard premaster tapes for submission to a CD factory.

Optical Media International is a privately held firm headquartered in Los Gatos, California, founded in 1985. A pioneer in the CD-ROM industry, OMI developed the first PC-based CD-ROM premastering system, the first PC-based multiformat CD recording system, the first Macintosh-based CD premastering and CD recording system, and the first CD-ROM XA premastering system.

Optical Media International

180 Knowles Drive, Los Gatos, California 95030

(408) 376-3511; fax: 408-376-3519


Computer Athlete High-Tech Exercising
High-Tech Exercising!

The Computer Athlete is the ultimate addition to IBM compatible computers with VGA graphics for those seeking a fun and easy way to be physically fit.

Transform your ordinary exercise equipment into extraordinary fitness entertainment centers by simply attaching the two adjustable button straps and aligning the infra-red light sensor. Your exercise rate corresponds with the speed of your player and the left/right buttons allow you to navigate in the game while you workout on your exercise bike, stepper, treadmill, cross-country or rowing machine.

Just pop the ExerCitement! game diskette into your PC, plug the interface cable into your game/joystick port and you'll be off on a challenging adventure cycling down a winding road, skiing over a snowy path or rowing on open waters. This arcade-style fitness program turns the seemingly endless minutes of exercise into a fun filled adventure through an action-packed course. Along the way, the exerciser scores points by avoiding obstacles, menacing characters and knocking over competitors -- the wipe-outs are hilarious!

The Computer Athlete has received rave reviews by health clubs, rehabilitation centers, and university students who participated in its beta-testing. Various skill levels makes the ExerCitement! game sophisticated enough to inspire and delight the entire family with the "thrill of competition" incorporated into the once boring and monotonous workout.

Special introductory factory-direct pricing is currently available at $159.95. Call 1-800-860-4506 to place an order or for more information about the Computer Athlete.

Computer Athlete Inc, 5193 Betonywood Place, Dublin, OH 43017


Sibex Computer Sentry Monitors System Health
Sibex, Inc. announces the release of a new product in its line of PC computer accessories.

The "Computer Sentry" is an electronic unit which monitors the "health" of a PC computer. It provides an alarm if it detects conditions which could result in operating problems or equipment failures.

The major causes of component failure are high temperatures, and improper operating voltage. High temperatures can result from a failed fan or dirty air inlet, or restricted airflow due to the location of the computer, etc. Spikes and surges, brownouts, defective power supplies, etc. can cause changes in the computers operating voltage. These conditions can occur at any time, and without the "Computer Sentry", you have no way of knowing they exist, until a problem occurs.

The unit is easily installed by any computer user. It does not require opening the computer case. It is compatible with most PC type computers.

* Protect your expensive PC computer from the biggest causes of

  electronic failure.

* Detect the onset of problems before they occur. Prevent

  unnecessary equipment down time.

* Easily installed. No electronic skill required. It does not

  require opening the computer case.

Modern electronic devices like your PC computer are sophisticated, high reliable, and will normally operate for years. The two biggest causes of electronic component failure are high operating voltage and high operating temperature.

The "Computer Sentry" is a solid state electronic module which monitors these important parameters within your PC computer and alarms if it detects an abnormal condition.

The "Computer Sentry" attaches to the outside of your computer case in less than five minutes. It monitors the 5 volt source which powers the computer electronics, and the temperature inside the computer case. If it detects a high or low operating voltage, or a high temperature inside the case, an alarm will sound alerting you of a pending problem. One of three LEDs on the unit case will then light indicating which condition was detected.

A high voltage condition detected by the "Computer Sentry" can mean imminent component failure, and should be corrected immediately. A low operating voltage can lead to, or cause erratic computer operation, loss of memory, etc. High or low voltages can result from a variety of causes, such as incorrect AC voltage, power line transients, a defective computer power supply, defective parts in the computer, etc.

High operating temperatures can also cause erratic operation and lead to a shorter computer life if allowed to persist. High temperatures can result from a number of causes such as a defective cooling fan, a dirty cooling air filter, restricted airflow due to placing the computer in a corner, etc.

The "Computer Sentry" is easy to install and does not require opening the computer case. You do not have to be a computer technician. or knowledgeable of the inner working of a PC to install it. The "Computer Sentry" attaches to the side of your computer case and is wired in line with the keyboard cable. A small wire with the temperature monitor attached is inserted into any opening in the back of the computer completing the job. When the "Computer Sentry" senses an abnormal condition, a buzzer will sound for about 1 sec. to alert you that it has detected a problem. The red or yellow LEDs on the case will light, indicating an abnormal voltage or temperature condition. Once triggered, the LED will stay on until the computer is turned off. The "Computer Sentry" performs a self test every time your computer is turned off. A short beep and quick flash of the LEDs tells you that the unit is working and faithfully monitoring your system.

Units are presently available from stock priced at $49.95 each, and include easy to follow installation instructions.

SIBEX, 1040 Harbor Lake Dr, Safety Harbor, FL 34695

(813) 726-4343;    (813) 726-4434


Sibex LP-1 Parallel Printer Tester
Sibex, Inc. announces the release of a new product in its line of PC computer diagnostic equipment. The LP-1 Printer Tester is designed to test and troubleshoot dot matrix and daisy wheel line printers. It works with all parallel interface line printers.

The LP-1 can troubleshoot the computer parallel port interface. LEDs on the test unit depict the data transfer and handshaking which occur between the computer and the printer during a print sequence.

The LP-1 incorporates a microprocessor which has been programmed to produce a simulated computer output sequence. With the LP-1 in this mode, the user can test and troubleshoot printer problems without having a computer available.

The LP-1 has numerous applications in the PC computer industry. It is used by printer manufacturers, system installers, printer salesmen, etc. to troubleshoot, install, test or demonstrate equipment.

* Test parallel communications between printer and computer.

* Built-in microprocessor allows LP-1 to simulate a PC computer

  output.

* Works with all line printers which utilize the standard

  parallel interface.

* Tests parallel port I/O from the computer.

* Tests the printers ability to communicate and accept data

  from a computer.

The LP-1 Printer Tester is designed to test and troubleshoot dot matrix and daisy wheel line printers which are compatible with the standard PC parallel port. It performs two basic series of tests, testing the communication and data transfer capability between the devices. A built-in microprocessor allows the LP-1 to test printers, cables and interface boxes without the need for a computer.

Most line printers have a built-in self-test sequence which tests the printers ability to generate characters. However, this test does not verify that the printer is receiving the correct parallel data and the proper communication commands from the computer, nor does it verify that the printer is issuing the proper commands to the computer. The LP-1 tests these functions.

The Printer Tester attaches in-line between the printer and the computer. It performs two series of tests. It monitors the communication information between the computer and the printer and displays the line status and pulses as they change. Information is displayed on LEDs built into the tester. High speed signals and pulses are latched or stretched to make them easily readable for troubleshooting. This test allows verifying proper operation of the computer interface, interconnect cabling and the printer output.

The second sequence tests the printers ability to generate text if it receives the correct instructions. This test can be performed without having a computer available. The LP-1 Printer Tester incorporates a microprocessor which has been programmed to simulate a computer output. In this mode, the LP-1 will cause the printer to initially print each character in the alphabet and then print two lines of preprogrammed text. The test sequence will repeat continuously until stopped. This repeat tests for intermittent problems and provides sufficient time for analysis of the pulsing signals.

The LP-1 is housed in a hand sized plastic case. It comes with male and female DB-25 connectors for easy attachment to the parallel port. An external 110VAC power supply and detailed instruction manual are provided with each unit.

Units are available from stock, priced at $249.00 each.

SIBEX, 1040 Harbor Lake Dr, Safety Harbor, FL 34695

(813) 726-4343;    (813) 726-4434


Client Project - Ultimate Project Billing Sys
CLIENT PROJECT

The Ultimate Project Billing System

A TIME & BILLING SYSTEM that accounts for charges to an unlimited number of projects (or matters). By recording expenditures as they occur you'll avoid the pitfall of failing to bill clients for project related expenditures. You'll be creating client invoices in no time for project and non-project activity.

RECOVER PROJECT COST THROUGH THE ALLOCATION OF:

1. STAFF TIME from special CLIENT PROJECT input forms to

   various projects using a weekly time sheet screen format;

2. VENDOR INVOICE CHARGES with an input feature that allows

   the allocation of a single invoice to many projects;

3. OTHER REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES such as charges from in-house

   photocopies, facsimiles etc.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS:

* COMPUTER: IBM COMPATIBLE

* OPERATING SYSTEM: MS-DOS (3.1 OR HIGHER)

* HARD DISK: 2MB RECOMMENDED

* DISK DRIVE: HIGH DENSITY 3-1/2" or 5-1/4"

* RAM: 1MB RECOMMENDED

In addition to preparing invoices for project activity, you can also prepare invoices for the sell of miscellaneous products and/or services.

The list price is $299, but if you act now you can get CLIENT PROJECT at the discount price being offered for a limited time.

For more information call us at (312) 939-1869 or fax us at (312) 939-1351

MICRO BILLING SYSTEMS, INC.

117 W. Harrison Bldg, Ste #624M, Chicago IL 60605


LANprint 2.1 Windows Network Printer Selection
LANPrint 2.1

Universal Network Printer Selection for Windows

LANPrint enables users to attach and detach network printers without any knowledge of queue names or network addresses, and without navigation of the Control Panel's many confusing screens.

LANPrint makes sure that output goes to the printer the user expects, and makes sure it is formatted correctly--no more pages of PostScript code in the LaserJet output tray; no more memos and letters printed in black and white on the color printer.

If you run Windows on your network, here's why you need LANPrint:

* Users select printers to attach from a list of plain English

  descriptions that you write: no queue names, no network

  addresses.

* Attach network printers (or detach them to the printer he is

  attaching on the port he permit local printing)--with one click

  of the mouse.

* The Windows printer setup screen is a mouse click away from

  the LANPrint main window.

* Changing the Windows default printer is simple and easy--and

  does not involve the Control Panel.

* LANPrint works with any Windows supported network, including

  Novell, Banyan Vines, IBM PC-LAN, LAN Manager, DEC Pathworks,

  and others.

NEW!

With version 2.1, you can configure LANPrint, using command-line parameters, to attach a single printer to a single port, without ever displaying the main screen. In this way, users can double-click on an icon to attach a particular printer. Set up Program Manager icon groups of printers according to printer type or location!

Here's how LANPrint works:

When a user clicks the LANPrint ATTACH Button, LANPrint checks his Windows configuration and lets him know if he is trying to attach a printer that he does not have installed.

If the printer is installed, LANPrint automatically adjusts the user's Windows configuration (if necessary) to include the printer he is attaching on the port he is attaching it to.

Finally, LANPrint automatically makes the attached printer the Windows default printer--and notifies all open applications, so that the next print request defaults to the printer just attached.

$149 per file server--unlimited users!

Quantity pricing and site license arrangements available.

Aleph Takoma Systems, 7319 Willow Ave, Takoma Park, MD 20912

301-270-4458


Rover - Voice Recognition Software for Windows
Digital Soup is now shipping new voice recognition software for Windows 3.1

April 23, 1993 -- BRATTLEBORO, VERMONT -- Digital Soup, Inc., announces new voice recognition software for Windows 3.1. Rover works with most popular sound boards, including Creative Labs' Sound Blaster and Media Vision's Pro Audio Rover gives you voice control of your Windows applications. You can "train" your computer to execute commands that normally require typing or mouse operations.

Rover comes with a fifty-word command dictionary so that you can get started right away. You "train" Rover to understand your particular pronunciation of the commands in the dictionary.

You can customize the dictionary or create new dictionaries, adding your own commands.

Voice-commands can be application-sensitive. Rover can carry out a command differently, depending on the application you are in.

Free utilities packaged with Rover include a frequency and level meter and a program launcher.

Retailing for $129, Rover's introductory price is only $49.

Digital Soup's Rover requires a 386- or 486-based CPU, Windows 3.1, a pointing device, a sound board and a microphone.

Digital Soup Inc, PO Box 1340, Brattleboro, VT 05302

(800) 793-7356;   (802) 254-7356;   fax: 802-254-6812


Floptical Technology Newsletter, April 1993
MARKET RESEARCHERS PREDICT TREMENDOUS GROWTH, INDUSTRY STANDARDIZATION FOR FLOPICAL PRODUCTS

Introduced just two years ago, the 21MB Floptical disk drive and media are rapidly becoming the technology standard for the very high capacity disk drive market segment. Prominent market researchers Disk/Trend, Dataquest, and Magnetic Media Information Services (MMIS) have all published reports predicting the market for Floptical products will continue to grow.

Disk/Trend Inc. forecasted an explosive growth in the worldwide market hr Floptical products to an estimated $208 million by 1994. The report predicted that as significant volumes start moving through the distribution channel product shipments will increase to 13 million units in 1994.

In a recently released Dataquest Alert report, analyst Julie Ruiz said, "...the Floptical Technology Association (FIA), is creating an awareness of the technology as well as taking steps to make the technology available to more users."

This continues to reflect Dataquest's support of Floptical technology. In a Dataquest Perspective, analyst Robert R. Gaskin said, "...members of the (FTA)...have set some sort of record for drawing attention to their cause. All the sound and fury appear to be having the desired effect, which is the emergence of the Floptical design as the de facto standard...The consortium promoting this standard is appearing ever stronger as time goes on, and it is now in a position to ship volumes of the product and cement is position in the marketplace."

Finally, in a report on storage technologies, MMIS concluded that the very high capacity diskette, and "especially the Floptical version, has a good chance of becoming the tc facto standard for 'above 2.88MB' diskette drives and media."

WHERE TO BUY FLOPTICAL PRODUCTS

A wealth of supporting products including drives, media, host adapters, subsystems and software drivers are available worldwide from the two dozen FIA member companies.

Computer superstores Bizmart, Comp/USA, Computerware, Frys Electronics, PC Warehouse and several others carry Floptical drives, media and subsystems. Floptical products are also available through mail order catalogs such as the Micro/MacWarehouse, UARCO, and PC/Mac Connection. Major distributors, including Arrow Electronics, Bell Micro, Computer Brokers of Canada, Ingram Micro, Merisel and Technology Distributors, are other good sources for Floptical products.

WHAT IS FLOPTICAL TECHNOLOGY?

As you move up from 1.44MB floppies to higher capacity storage, 21MB Floptical technology will be your next disk drive. Floptical technology was developed to provide solutions for storage problems of small systems such as portables and laptops, and to provide alternatives for the new desktop user and for those replacing their 5.25-inch drives.

Floptial disk drive technology is a combination of optical and magnetic recording technologies used to achieve very high capacity 3.5-inch floppy diskette data storage. The 21MB Floptical drives feature downward read and write compatibility with conventional 720Kbyte and 1.44MB diskettes. A single Floptical diskette has the storage capacity of fourteen 1.44MB diskettes.

Floptical disk drives are well-suited to applications that require I/O, near-line and high-capacity storage, such as graphics, CAD/CAM/CAE, multimedia and imaging. Floptical disk drives can also be used for incremental backup.

BROAD RANGE OF FLOPTICAL PRODUCTS FOR MOST POPULAR PLATFORMS

Desktop, laptop and notebook computer users can all enjoy the benefits of internal external and parallel port Floptical drives. A wide variety of Floptical products are available for the most popular platforms including SCSI, Microchannel ISA, EISA, ESDI, ant IDE PC-compatible systems. Macintosh, Amiga and NeXT computers are also supported, as well as H-P, Silicon Graphics and Sun workstations. Products include disk drives, host adapters, diskettes and subsystems from over twenty vendors.

MICROSOFT'S NEW WINDOWS NT SUPPORTS FLOPTICAL DISKETTES

Watch for the retail version of Microsoft's Windows NT operating system with driver support for Floptical diskette technology.

Steve Timm, technical evangelist for Storage for Microsoft's Systems Marketing Group, said, "Windows N r will require between 12MB and 16MB of memory, plus about 200MB of hard disk space. Using Floptical technology for enhanced on-line storage solves the problem of limited disk space without sacrificing compatibility with the user's library of 1.44MB floppies."

Hewlett-Packard, Maynard Support Floptical Technology for PA-RISC Workstations

Hewlett-Packard Co. announced it will support 21MB Floptical technology as the high capacity removable storage solution for its PA-RISC workstations. Under an agreement coordinated by 3M, H-P will develop the driver software required for compatibility with the H-P Apollo 9000 Series 700 workstation family, and peripherals manufacturer Maynard Electronics will manufacture and market an external Floptical subsystem as the first supplier to the H-P market.

Mike A. Gallup, worldwide marketing manager for H-Ps Workstation Systems Group, said, "H-P regards the 21MB Floptical diskette technology to be a superior solution for high-capacity floppy diskettes, based on affordability, compatibility and performance. The pairing of 21MB technology with the high performance Series 700 family will provide users with an even more powerful, versatile tool for both commercial and engineering applications."

dB-CART FLOPTICAL BROADCAST DISKETTE PREMIERES AT NAB

A new alternative to the cart deck is being introduced at the giant National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) convention in Las Vegas by Digital Broadcast Associates. The company has developed dB-Cart", a self-contained digital audio source machine for the broadcast industry which uses 1.44MB floppy and 21MB Floptical diskettes to store music and programming.

"Our new Floptical broadcast diskettes will store a mind-boggling 10 plus minutes of full-bandwidth stereo (compared to 70 seconds on a floppy) and costs little more than a good NAB tape cart," said company founder Ron DeBly. "Floptical technology has enabled us to develop a simple-to-operate dB Cart with unparalleled reliability and unsurpassed audio quality."

The dB-Cart was developed as an alternative to the low audio quality, high maintenance analog tape decks used to store radio commercials, television voice-over announcements, and much of the music heard on the radio today.

The Floptical Technology Association

21710 Stevens Creek Blvd, Suite 220, Cupertino, CA 95014

408-446-0407;  fax: 408-446-0450


NSSI LanSafe II for Unix Power Mgmt Software
NSSI INTRODUCES LanSafe II for Unix Power Management Software

First Real-Time Power Management Software Improves Reliability of Heterogenous Unix Networks

SAN DIEGO, April 26, 1993 - Network Security Systems, Inc., (NSSI) today announced its LanSafe II for Unix, a power management software package, which controls and manages power in a heterogenous network environment. NSSI's LanSafe II for Unix brings to Unix-based servers and workstations the ability to control power conditions to avoid equipment damage and the loss of data in volatile memory. LanSafe II for Unix was developed especially for the Unix environment, and unlike other programs that only monitor the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for a single Unix computer, LanSafe II for Unix provides interactive management and control for all NSSI intelligent power systems (IPS/A.I.) throughout an entire network of workstations and servers.

LanSafe II for Unix incorporates an X Window system and Motif graphical user interface that allows network administrators to see the status of all power protection components on an entire network, at once, and to identify potential power problems. Administrators can monitor, manage and configure every power protection node from any workstation on the network, including those at remote sites.

"Everything we do at NSSI is aimed at making heterogenous network management simpler and more reliable. NSSI has developed LanSafe II for Unix specifically to address these vital issues," said Bill Humphreys, president of NSSI. "LanSafe II for Unix is designed to ensure the integrity of data in volatile memory that is vulnerable during a power outage. Without the security of backup power during a power outage, investments to downsize computers can be lost in efforts to reenter data, rerun reports, or reprocess valuable jobs. Additionally, LanSafe II for Unix operates, looks, and feels like our Microsoft Windows product. This should appeal to system managers."

Using the LanSafe II console, administrators can troubleshoot power problems and monitor real-time loads, battery, and voltage status. Pull-down menus provide the ability to change power and program settings, conduct network-wide tests, reboot or shut down nodes, and view historical power event logs.

If a prolonged power outage occurs, the system will begin an orderly shutdown of the Unix network, guaranteeing data integrity and the ability to quickly restore the system when power returns. Automatic daily hardware self-testing and software-controlled battery preventative maintenance procedures provide increased system life and reliability.

The exclusive LanSafe II for Unix network power management features include:

* Automatic and orderly shutdown of all network devices without

  the need for manual intervention -- critical to managing data

  integrity

* Total power management of every network device, including file

  servers and workstations

* Real-time configuration management of operating parameters,

  such as transfer to backup-battery voltage ranges,

  communication ports, and shutdown parameters for every device

  without shutting down or rebooting the system

* Support for the X Window system and Motif graphical user

  interface

* "PowerPro" feature for setting upper and lower voltage limits,

  thus customizing the hardware operation to local power

  conditions and preserving battery capacity;

* Management console, with graphical controls, that allows power

  management for the entire network

* Software controlled preventative maintenance procedures for

  draining and recharging batteries, providing increased system

  life and reliability

* Online, context-sensitive, hypertext help system, modelled

  after Microsoft Windows, for all console functions

* Support for SCO, SunOS, HP-UX INTERACTIVE, AT&T Unix, IBM AIX,

  Solaris, DEC ULTRIX, Xenix and other platforms

The suggested U.S. list price of LanSafe II for Unix is $149 for the single-seat version. The five-seat version is available at an introductory price of $299. This product is available immediately.

The LanSafe family of power management software and NSSI's line of Intelligent Power Systems combine to provide a complete fault tolerant system. The IPS/A I. models for workstation backup include the model 300 (210 watts) priced at $299 and the model 450 (315 watts) priced at $449. The IPS/A I. 600 (480 watts), 800 (640 watts) and 1200 (960 watts) models are priced at $599, $799 and $1199 respectively and protect larger workstations and servers. The entire IPS/A.I. product line is backed by a full, two-year warranty which may be extended up to five years.

NSSI is the market's leading innovator in network power management. Its award-winning Intelligent Power System hardware and LanSafe software also support Novell, OS/2, LAN Server, LAN Manager, Unix and other leading networks and operating systems. NSSI's products are available through value-added resellers and major distributors. For additional product information, contact NSSI at (800) 755-7078.

Network Security Systems Inc, 9401 Waples St, San Diego, CA 92121

619-587-7950;  800-755-7078;  fax: 619-552-9162


The Invoice Store Business Management Software
"Business Management Without The Pain!

Software Store Products, Inc. is shipping a major upgrade to its business  management tool, The Invoice Store.  Don't let the name fool you, The  Invoice Store does much more than create invoices.  Designed with the first  time business owner in mind, The Invoice Store makes inventory management,  accounts receivable, and invoice management a breeze.  The program uses  multiple databases to store and manage your business information.  Each  database is managed by using easy to understand forms.  The user never  needs to manually move data from one place to another, it's all automatic.

Completely menu driven and extremely flexible, the program can be used as a  Point-Of-Sale program, a business management tool, or anything in between.   To top it all off The Invoice Store is ready to run on any IBM compatible  network right out of the box, nothing else to buy.  Software Store  Products, Inc. provides free technical support and upgrades via its bulletin board.  You can also call the bulletin board and download a fully functional demo of the program at no charge.

List Price:  The Invoice Store, Version 3.0, $95.

Software Store Products, P.O. Box 562 Oakdale, NY 11769

Tel: (516-244-6927)     Fax: (516-567-5563)

BBS: (516-589-4984)


Apple Expands Mac Performa Line in US
Apple Expands Macintosh Performa Line in the U.S. With Three New Computers

Performa 405, 430, 450 To Offer Color, More Software, Hax/Modem at Lower Prices

CUPERTINO, California--April 12, 1993 -- Apple Computer, Inc. announced today three new models in the Apple Macintosh Performa line of personal computers, including a value-priced, modular color system, as well as enhanced software and peripheral offerings across the new line. The Macintosh Performa is designed to reach first-time buyers and new users in the home, offering a computing solution customized for family use.

Today's announcement adds three new Performa models to the existing line in the U.S.: the Macintosh Performa 405, Macintosh Performa 430 and Macintosh Performa 450. The new models will provide customers with more options in the popular Performa 400 series.

"Since we introduced the Performa in September, we have gained acceptance in families with school age children," stated Keith Fox, vice president and general manager of Apple USA's Consumer division. "We continue to strive to enhance our offerings to this important group of home computer users. The new Performa 400 models offer our customers a broader range of options in affordable modular color systems."

The Macintosh Performa 200, Macintosh Performa 400, Macintosh Performa 600 and Macintosh Performa 600 CD, introduced last September, will remain in the Performa product line unchanged.

FAX/MODEM & LARGER SELECTION OF SOFTWARE FEATURED

For the first time, Apple will include a modem with the Performa line. The new Performa 400 models will be bundled with a special version of the Global Village TelePort/Bronze fax/modem, designed specifically for this new Macintosh Performa series. The TelePort/Bronze modem allows users to send fax documents from their computer and access popular on-line services. In addition, TelePort/Bronze provides Performa customers with a convenient on-line registration option.

The new Performa 400 line will come bundled with two on-line services: CheckFree, an automated bill payment system, and an Apple special edition of America Online. In addition to standard on-line information services available through America Online, the Apple version will introduce Apple Club Performa. Apple Club Performa gives customers access to Apple News and Product Information, Education Resources, Software Solutions, a Performa User Message Exchange and on-line access to Apple's Customer Support Center.

Every member of the Macintosh Performa family comes pre-loaded with software programs. An all-in-one word processor, spreadsheet, database and drawing application (either ClarisWorks or WordPerfect Works) will be standard with every Performa. In addition, users will receive a selection of the following with the new line: The American Heritage Dictionary, Scrabble, Spectre Challenger, TouchBase, DateBook, BestBooks, Correct Grammar and Best of ClickArt.

The Macintosh Performa 405, 430, 450, 600 and 600 CD models, will now come bundled with Macintosh PC Exchange which provides Macintosh Performa users easy access to DOS and Windows files.

For the first time, the Performa 405, 430 and 450 models are packaged as a complete one box solution making them even easier to set-up. Each box includes the CPU, a color monitor, ready-to-run hardware, optimized system software and pre-loaded software applications.

MACINTOSH PERFORMA 400 LINE

All three new Performa models use the powerful Motorola 68030 microprocessor, and offer one processor direct slot to accommodate add-in cards and feature seven expansion ports to easily connect printers and peripherals. In addition, each Performa features Apple's SuperDrive, a 3.5" floppy disk drive capable of reading from and writing to disks from Macintosh, Windows, DOS and Apple II computers.

-Running at 16 MHz, the entry-level Performa 405 offers built-in video for displaying 16 colors (expandable to 256) on the 14-inch Apple Performa Display. The 405 comes equipped with a 80MB hard drive and 4MB RAM expandable to 10MB.

-The Performa 430 runs at a 16MHz clock speed and offers built-in video for displaying 256 colors on its 14-inch Apple Performa Display. The Performa 430 includes a 120MB hard disk drive which provides ample storage, and 4MB RAM expandable to 10MB.

-Running at 25 MHz, the Performa 450 can also display 256 colors (expandable to 32,000) on the 14-inch Apple Performa Plus Display. The Performa 450 includes a 120MB hard disk with 4MB of RAM expandable to 36MB. The Performa 450 provides up to two times the speed of the Performa 400, 405 or 430

There is no suggested retail pricing for the Performa product line. Individual retailers will price the products according to their specific solutions offerings. However, Apple expects the three new Performa 400 models to be priced in a range from $1,300 to $1,850.

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATELY THROUGH 2,200 RETAIL LOCATIONS

The Performa 405, 430 and 450 are available immediately in more than 2,200 storefront locations across the U.S., including: Biz Mart, Circuit City, Dayton Hudson, Good Guys, Incredible Universe, Lechmere, Office Depot, OfficeMax, Silo, Staples, Tops and selected Montgomery Ward and Sears locations.

In addition, Apple USA has recently added three new retail distribution accounts authorized to carry the Performa line. These are: Brandsmart, Campo's, and Nobody Beats The Wiz.

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

408-996-1010


Apple Reduces Selected PowerBook Duo Products
Apple Reduces Suggested Retail Prices on Selected PowerBook Duo Products

CAMPBELL, California--April 8, 1993--The Apple USA division of Apple Computer, Inc. has reduced prices in the United States on selected PowerBook Duo computer products.

Effective Monday, April 5, the suggested retail prices (SRPs) were reduced on the following products: PowerBook Duo 210 4/80, PowerBook Duo 230 4/80, PowerBook Duo 230 4/120 and the PowerBook Duo 230 4/120 with modem. The new prices are effective immediately.

The PowerBook Duo System was named Breakthrough Product of the Year by MacUser Magazine and named Best Portable System at the Fall 1992 Comdex. It joins the other Apple PowerBook computers in being named Best New Products of 1992 by Fortune Magazine, Business Week, Time and US News and World Report. The PowerBook Duo system is noted for bridging the gap between desktop and notebook computers by offering a full-featured desktop computer and a lightweight (4 Ib) notebook computer in a single system ~ it has been called "the best of both worlds."

"The PowerBook Duo System has been in high demand and short supply since introduction in October of 1992," said Bob Puette, president of Apple USA division of Apple Computer, Inc. "We are now catching up with the demand and the product is more readily available at Apple resellers. These price reductions will provide customers with excellent products at unmatched value."

Puette noted that while Apple USA is announcing a change in SRPs on these Apple products, it is difficult to estimate what effect this action will have on retail pricing set by resellers.

Current and previous suggested retail prices for the Apple PowerBook Duo products are:

                             Previous SRP   New SRP   %Change

PowerBook Duo 210 4/80           $2249       $1839      18%

PowerBook Duo 230 4/80            2609        2299      12

PowerBook Duo 230 4/120           2969        2659      10

PowerBook Duo 230 4/120 w/modem   3219        2899      10

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

408-996-1010


Sports ALMANAC CD-ROM NOW ON MPC FORMAT

Burbank, CA -- Sports Illustrated, the nation's only sports newsweekly has joined with sister company Warner New Media to produce the first interactive CD-ROM reference guide of statistics and sports coverage.

Initially available for the Macintosh, Sports Illustrated CD-ROM Sports Almanac is now available for the MPC format. The program boasts a revolutionary search option that sorts through nearly 10,000 sports facts with a single click of a button. The dense database of Sports Almanac "allows you to jump around from picture to stat and from chapter to chapter without going back to the index," says the project's art director, Tracy Bader.

Making a conscious break from typically flat black and white photographs, Sports Almanac instead uses bright sound-captioned pictures that capture the flavor and feeling of Sports Illustrated images. Add information-rich articles by top SI writers and you have a near-perfect blend of information and technology, unprecedented in any medium.

Sports Illustrated, a pioneer in sports journalism, once again is on the cutting edge in developing a CD-ROM program with Warner New Media. "The opportunity to bring together the editorial resources of Sports Illustrated with the technical and creative expertise of Warner New Media has allowed us to create an exciting and innovative new product," says SI director of Development Steve Zales. "We expect Sports Almanac to be the starting point for a long and successful venture into the world of interactive media."

Warner New Media has established itself as a front-runner in the growing multimedia industry, producing and publishing entertainment and informational products which continue to redefine the capabilities of interactive programming.

Sports Illustrated CD-ROM Sports Almanac retails for $59.99 and plays on MPC computers. The program is available now in software stores nationwide. To order direct, call toll-free (800) 953-6334. For more information, call Warner New Media at (818) 955-9999


Creation Stories Multicultural CD-ROM
WARNER NEW MEDIA PUBLISHES MULTICULTURAL CD-ROM: CREATION STORIES

BURBANK, CA -- The latest in a series of provocative multimedia CD-ROM programs by Warner New Media, Creation Stories asks the question "How did all that is in the world come to be?" and provides the answers given by nearly 60 groups, from the Aborigine to the Scientific.

Artisans Grace Chen, Hagit Cohen, Jocelyn Cohen and Nancy Hechinger of Hands On Media used Adobe Photoshop to craft the artwork - a unique mix of artifacts and painterly effects marking a breakthrough in electronic imaging.

Producer Pat Roberts remarks, "Every culture asks, 'Where did we come from?' We wanted to present the answers given by different groups around the world, with illustrations that reflect the beauty of each story."

"The program is divided into six sections covering an entire cycle of creation legend, including the beginning and arrangement of the world, the creation of humans, the intrusion of disharmony and the destruction and rebirth of the world. There are 12 stories to listen to and 81 more to read.

Startling similarities and intriguing differences exist among our perceptions of the world and its beginnings, but the great unity is the wonder and awe all cultures have felt at the miracle of creation," says Roberts.

Creation Stories plays on MPC-compatible computers, and the audio portion can be played on any CD player. Plans for a Macintosh version are in the works.

Creation Stories is available now in computer software stores nationwide; suggested retail price: $49.99. To order direct, call toll-free (800) 593-6334 or 818-955-7004


The View from Earth, Solar Eclipse on CDROM
DON'T MISS THE NEXT TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE

BURBANK, CA, April 19 -- Make plans now to visit Lima, Peru on November 3, 1994 -- it's the best place to view the next total solar eclipse, according to the Eclipse Tracker -- in Warner New Media's latest CD-ROM release, The View from Earth.

Due to the popularity of the Macintosh version released in April 1992, The View from Earth has been ported to the MPC platform for DOS owners and other Windows-based users of multimedia entertainment.

Scheduled for release April 20, 1993, The View from Earth for MPC offers stunning color photos of the sun, Earth and its moon, accompanied by informative narration.

"The View from Earth, a joint venture from Warner New Media and Time-Life Books, features pristine color images from space as well as audio-visual histories of the solar system and solar and lunar eclipses," reports Bob Young of the Los Angeles Times. The interactive astronomy disc is based on the acclaimed Time-Life Books series, Voyage Through the Universe.

Features of the program include:

* An animated slide show of the total solar eclipse of July 11, 1991,

  as filmed from the top of Mauna Kea volcano in Hawaii

* A map of the world showing the paths of past, present and future

  solar eclipses, from 1940 to 2040

* A glossary defining scientific and technical terms

To run the MPC version of The View from Earth, you'll need an MPC-compatible computer with Multimedia extensions and at least four megabytes of memory.

The View from Earth is available in computer software stores nationwide; suggested retail price: $79.98. To order direct, call toll-free (800) 593-6334


The EYE Image Calculator Image Acquisition/Proc.
The EYE Image Calculator is PC-based, MS-Windows image acquisition/processing software. Frame grabbers from EPIX Inc (Northbook, IL) and Coreco Inc. (St. Laurent, PQ) are supported. EYE presents a powerful approach to image processing, allowing operations on groups of images at a time. Iterations are easily performed. Multiple images can be stored in TIFF format and retrieved individually. Capture and display by a novel point and click technique allowing fast access to all image memory.

Standard image processing along with 3D-luminescence plots, contour plots, graphic overlays, movie loops, and more. Automatic sampling processes a live scene over time. Point co-ordinates can be recorded, analysed and plotted. Camera/Display format, and frame grabber ADC, LUTs, are adjustable, EYE supports inter-application exchange of its plots and data. A developer's C-library and DLL are provided at no additional cost!

Io Industries Inc

100 Collip Circle, Ste 235

UWO Research Park

London, Ontario, N6G 4X8 CANADA

tel/fax: 519-858-5032

------------------more details follow---------------------------

EYE Image Calculator

Advancing the standard in high-performance, low cost image processing.

Image Memory Like You've Never Seen It Before!

Say goodbye to the days of wading through menus to capture and display images. With our new innovation known as the Image Pad, capture and display have never been simpler! The Image Pad is a spreadsheet of cells in which each cell references a complete image on your frame grabber. Two icons residing on the Image Pad control image capture and display. Drag the display icon across the Image Pad to instantly view your images. Click the camera icon over an Image Pad cell to quickly capture live or still images.

Process Multiple Images at a Time

The Image Pad introduces an entire new dimension to image processing: Multi-Image Processing. Choose an image processing function from the Function-Bar, located on top of the Image Pad, click and drag over a group of cells in the Image Pad to specify the images for processing, similarly specify the image memory location to contain the processed images, press the GO button in the Function-Bar, and all the images will be processed. Frequently used operations such as image load from disk, image save to disk, copy, delete, and zoom, are conveniently accessed in the Hot-Bar buttons located directly on top of the Image Pad. Image processing is so easy and immediate with the Image Pad, you'll wonder how you ever got along without it!

A Powerful Solution for Image Storage and Retrieval

Select any group of images in image memory using the Image Pad. Press the SAVE button on the Hot-Bar and the group of images will be stored in a single TIFF file or headerless binary file. Loading any or all of the images in a file is just as simple. This method is extremely useful for storing and retrieving motion sequences.

Presentation Graphics Are a Snap

EYE can generate 3D colorimetric plots of pixel intensities, contour mappings, histograms, profiles, and projections. The resulting bitmap plots are easily exported to word-processing programs for inclusion in reports.

Spatial Calibration of Image Plane

For analysis which requires absolute spatial scale, EYE includes a flexible image co-ordinate system. The user can specify the keyboard or the mouse. EYE allows the user to move the origin, as well as flip the orientation of the axes.

Automatic Sampling

Points, lines and areas within the image can be monitored with EYE's Measurements Tools. These tools provide repetitive capture and analysis of image data. Analysis is either of: a single point, resulting in a chart plot of pixel intensity with time; a line, producing a profile plot of pixel values; or an area, generating a histogram of pixel values. These acquire/analysis tols are indispensable for routine tasks, such as focusing without a display monitor, or adjusting lighting conditions to optimize use of digitization levels.

Extract and Process Positional Information

The Point List Tool provides a handy way of recording and analyzing X, Y point positions. Pixel values, segment lengths, segment angles, and polygon areas can be calculated from the set of points and exported to other applications. The points can be entered by pointing and clicking in an image or by importing them from another application. Additionally, the points can be plotted and labelled within an image. Trajectory analysis, and motion analysis are easily accomplished with this tool.

Harness the Power of Your Frame Grabber

If your frame grabber has it, we use it! Image processing routines have been optimized to run directly on your frame grabber's processor (DSP, GSP, or MPU), where possible, for the fastest possible results. Tools are provided to control the input and output look-up tables, and the Analog/Digital Converter, if present, on your frame grabber. EYE can interface to RS-170, CCIR and the non-standard video sources supported by your frame grabber.

Applications include general scientific and engineering image processing, medical imaging, motion analysis, timed acquisition/display, and the design of closed loop machine vision applications.


FirstClass Client for Windows Email & More
FirstClass Client for Windows Released

TORONTO--May 1st, 1993--SoftArc Inc. of Toronto is now shipping a Windows-based front end for its FirstClass E-mail, conferencing and remote access software.

The freely-distributable FirstClass Client for Windows offers features and functionality nearly identical to its companion FirstClass Macintosh client, and permits users to connect to Mac-based FirstClass servers via network or modem for E-mail and groupware conference access.

Clients on Macintosh or Windows may access the same, non-dedicated FirstClass server without dedicated Novell file servers, routers or other hardware. Network connections to the server from both machine types are made over the same physical Ethernet cable. The FirstClass server accepts logins over PC IPX AppleTalk and modem at the same time. Up to 250 users of any mixture of connection types may be accommodated simultaneously. One FirstClass server may accommodate more than 20 modems. Mail delivery between platforms is instantanous and users of Macintosh and Windows machines may even "chat" with each other in real time.

The FirstClass Windows client features the same asynchronous multiple file transfer capability, powerful E-mail functionality and electronic conferencing popular among users of the Macintosh graphical interface.

"There's been incredible demand for a FirstClass Windows interface. We're delighted to make this announcement, and look forward to seeing FirstClass solving communication problems in mixed-platform environments," said SoftArc President Steve Asbury.

Owners of FirstClass systems require a plug-in software option to accommodate Windows users via network or modem. The Windows option prices at $295 (U.S.) for unlimited users. Users of the Windows interface require a 386 or better running Microsoft Windows 3.1 or newer with a minimum of 4 MB of RAM.

SoftArc Inc

805 Middlefield Rd, Suite 102

Scarborough, Ontario, Canada M1V 2T9

416-299-4723;  fax: 416-754-1856;  BBS: 416-609-2250

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:swr-per

:Expert Home Design Golf for Windows

Expert Home Design Gold For Windows

The Next Generation In Home Design Programs

CORAL GABLES, Florida (April 16, 1993) - Expert Software, Inc. announces the release of its second Gold Series design program, Expert Home Design Gold for Windows. Recently, Expert Software shipped Expert Home Design Gold for DOS. Expert Home Design Gold for Windows brings the power and convenience of the Windows environment to the home planner at the low price of $49.95.

Expert Home Design Gold for Windows enters uncharted territory in the home design category by including two original features: real home plans and a 100 page booklet of design and decorating tips. For the first time in design software users can edit document files containing representations of these actual house plans from the popular home design magazine Home Styles Publishing.

"Given the popularity of home improvement/building software, we decided to broaden our horizons with the release of Expert Home Design Gold for Windows," said Sue Currier, president of Expert Software, Inc. "Expert Software now offers a user a simple to use design program (Expert Home Design) and a more advanced model (Expert Home Design Gold) for Windows and DOS for users who want the extra power to build an edition or design an entire home."

Expert Home Design Gold for Windows is unlike hard to learn CAD (Computer Aided Design) programs. It's as easy to use as a simple drawing program, but provides the power of CAD without the headaches.

With Expert Home Design Gold for Windows, you can create your own furniture drag 'n drop style, try different layouts with a single mouse movement, and use the 100 page Design and Decorating guide as a reference for advice and money saving tips.

Expert Home Design Gold for Windows makes it simple to design your own home plans with drawing tools including special tools for doors and windows. Expert Home Design Gold for Windows automatically measures as you draw in feet or meters and easily calculates square footage. The programs scaling controls and on-screen grids allow a user to be 100 percent accurate.

Expert Home Design Gold for Windows also includes the following additional features:

* Drag 'n Drop - A method of copying and moving objects by simply dragging them to their destination, only available in the Windows platform.

* OLE - A specialized form of data exchange between programs. Users can write a letter in a word processor, include a floor plan in it, and edit the plan while working on the letter.

* Over 125 realistic pieces, including home/office and specialized objects such as saunas.

* A costing program to help you track building and decorating expenses. It even figures Adjustable Rate Mortgages.

Expert Software is the developer of Windows, MS-DOS, and Macintosh titles which have appeared on many of the industry's leading hot and best seller lists. Expert Software is located at 800 Douglas Road, North Tower, Suite 355, Coral Gables. FL 33134-3128. For consumer product information contact: 800-759-2562; 305-567-9990; fax: 305-443-0786

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:swr-bus

:IMAGE IN and Desktop Imaging Studio Direct Link

Truvel Announces a Direct Link between IMAGE IN and the Desktop Imaging Studio for the PC

March 30, 1993 -- Herndon, VA: Truvel, a division of Vidar Systems Corporation, today announced the addition of a scanner plug-in for IMAGE IN on the PC platform. According to George Patrick, Vidar's Vice President of Sales, "The PC version of our Desktop Imaging Studio is greatly enhanced by the ability to scan and manipulate images within IMAGE-IN COLOR. This program provides total control of the image editing process. Add this feature to the capabilities of the Imaging Studio and the result is the most versatile imaging system available for publishers of catalogues and promotional materials."

IMAGE IN COLOR is a 24-bit color image editing program that runs under Microsoft Windows version 3.x in both standard and enhanced mode. Truvel users can acquire and process images with the program, and have access to advanced color scanning and manipulation capabilities. IMAGE IN COLOR provides superior CMYK color separations as well as HSV and RGB color selection. Users scan directly from within the program and output the images through IMAGE IN to any of the popular page layout programs. Image files may be output as TIFF, EPS, PICT and other standard file formats. An upgrade to Image-In Professional, is avail able directly from Image In, Incorporated at an attractive price.

The Desktop Imaging Studio offers the flexibility a designer needs to retain control of the production process by eliminating the need for outside services. The Imaging Studio is a feature rich system which includes optical resolution from 75 to 900 dpi, the option to scan line art with the proficiency of a stat camera, and the ability to capture high resolution images of small objects for catalogs and manuals. With the addition of the IMAGE-IN plug-in, the Desktop Imaging Studio is equally versatile in both PC and Macintosh arenas.

Truvel, a division of Vidar Systems Corporation, has been manufacturing scanners for the computer workplace since 1987.

Truvel, 520 Herndon Parkway, Herndon, VA 22070

Phone: 703/471-7070;   Fax: 703/471-1165

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:hwr-sys

:Microbus Single Slot 486 Computer

MICROBUS INTRODUCES TRUE SINGLE SLOT 486 COMPUTER

Houston, TX - Microbus, Inc. has introduced the MAT-724 PC-Compatible Single Board Computer (SBC) for passive ISA backplane (PC/AT) systems. This CPU is the only board of This kind to incorporate one of several video options, Flash and Static RAM solid state disks, SCSI/2, and other standard disk I/O controllers in a true ISA single slot form factor.

Supporting the full line of 486 processors (486DX @ 25,33,50MHz and 486DX2 @ 50,66MHz), this SBC may be populated with up to 32MB of RAM and an optional 128KB external cache. On-board IDE and floppy disk controllers are standard, as are one parallel and two serial ports, and ports for a keyboard and PS/2 mouse. The option of a Future Domain 16 bit SCSI/2 controller allows OEMs the benefit of cost effective IDE disks and the performance and flexibility of high capacity SCSI tape, disk, and optical devices.

On-board video modules support flat panel displays (including TFT color models), 256 color Super VGA, VGA, and monochrome/CGA monitors. A GUI/Windows Accelerator is available with software drivers to increase the speed of video-intensive operating system interfaces. Video options provide an external connection via 9 or 15 pin D-type connectors and, on VGA and flat panel models, provide the VGA feature connector.

The solid state disk module provides a compact package for diskless and embedded applications. Based on TSOP packages, the type used in PC/MCIA memory disk cards, this non-volatile MEM-DISK is configurable with up to 2MB of Flash EEPROM memory, up to 1MB of Static RAM, or up to 1MB of Flash with .5MB of SRAM. Software is provided for programming Flash from a disk or downloading to Flash via serial port.

Microbus specializes in the design and manufacture of custom and standard single board computers for passive ISA backplane (PC/AT) systems, offering a complete line of SBCs based on 286 through 486 microprocessors.

Microbus, 550 Julie Rivers Dr. Suite 140, Sugar Land, TX 77478

Phone: 800/688-4405 or 713/1240-0400;   FAX: 713/240-4405

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

:hwr-sys

:Microbus Half Slot 486SLC/386SX SBC's

MICROBUS INTRODUCES HALF SLOT 486SLC/386SX SINGLE BOARD COMPUTER

Houston, TX - Microbus, Inc. has introduced the MAT-715 PC-Compatible Single Board Computer (SBC) for passive ISA backplane (PC/AT) systems. This CPU is the only board of its kind to incorporate one of several video options, Flash and Static RAM solid state disks and other standard disk/IO controllers in a true ISA half slot form factor. Supporting the Cyrix 486SLC (@25,33 MHz) and the Intel 386SX (16,25,33 MHz) processors, this SBC may be populated with up to 8MB of RAM and features IDE and floppy disk controllers, one parallel and two serial ports, and ports for a keyboard and PS/2 mouse.

On-board video modules support flat panel displays (including TFT color models), Hi-Color Super VGA, VGA, and monochrome/CGA monitors. A GUI/Windows Accelerator is available with software drivers to increase the speed of video-intensive operating system interfaces. Video options provide an external connection via 9 or 15 pin D-type connectors and, on VGA and flat panel models, provide a VGA feature connector.

The solid state disk module provides a compact package for diskless and embedded applications. Based on TSOP packages, the type used in PC/MCIA memory disk cards, this non-volatile module is configurable with up to 2MB of Flash EEPROM memory, up to 1MB of Static RAM, or up to 1MB of Flash with .5MB of SRAM. Software is provided for programming Flash from a disk or downloading to Flash via serial port.

Microbus specializes in the design and manufacture of custom and standard single board computers for passive ISA backplane (PC/AT) systems, offering a complete line of SBCs based on 286 through 486 microprocessors.

Microbus, 550 Julie Rivers Dr. Suite 140, Sugar Land, TX 77478

Phone: 800/688-4405 or 713/1240-0400;   FAX: 713/240-4405

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

:swr-bus

:Approach 1st Annual Awards of Distinction

Approach Software Announces Winners of First Annual Awards of Distinction

Winners include users from CIGNA, Chase Manhattan Bank and a California Fire Department

Redwood City Calif., April 23, 1993--Approach Software Corporation today announced the winners of its first annual Approach for Windows Awards of Distinction.

The competition is designed to recognize user excellence in each of the following categories:

* Best Example of Time/Money Saved Using Approach for Windows

* Best Application by a First-Time Database User

* Most Creative Use of Approach for Windows

All registered users of Approach 2.0 for Windows were eligible to enter. The first place winners in each category are:

First Place for "Best Example of Time/Money Saved" is awarded to Thomas Bullerman, Loss Control Manager in the Property and Casualty division of the CIGNA Corporation. Bullerman projects an estimated $100,000 of annual savings with an application that automatically matches Loss Control Services (LCS) professionals with appropriate clients and tailors their credentials to match specific needs. Focused, industry-specific marketing is a critical competitive advantage in a division where each professional handles about 500 cases per year.

For "Best Application by a First-Time Database User," the winner is Gregory Johnson, a general business and desktop publishing consultant. Johnson, who has never before used a database, designed his award winning business automation system to include full product, invoice, vendor, inventory and customer databases. According to client company President, Linda Jackson, virtually the entire business is now run using Approach for Windows.

First Place for "Most Creative Use of Approach for Windows" is awarded to Don Glor, with the City of San Mateo California Fire Department. Glor has developed powerful applications for tracking toxic chemical exposure as well as managing cost recovery from parties responsible for emitting toxic chemicals. Glor has also built an innovative inventory management system in which users are presented with a visual representation of a fire truck and can click anywhere on the vehicle to access and update inventory information for that particular section of the truck. Although Glor won in the "Most Creative" category, he is also a first-time database user.

Second and third place winners included users from a variety of businesses ranging from an application that manages scheduling for the Bankcard Division of Chase Manhattan Bank to a relational database that manages a fleet of 225 cars for a food broker business.

"We were delighted with the overwhelming number of applications demonstrating the innovation and productivity of our users," said Kevin Harvey, President of Approach Software Corporation. "The number of first time database users who had developed powerful business applications was especially gratifying," he added.

Approach for Windows Background

Approach for Windows is an end user database designed to make managing and reporting on information easy even for novices. Because of its outstanding ease of use, Approach for Windows appeared on bestseller lists shortly after it shipped 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.

More than 20 Awards and Accolades

Approach has captured more than 20 awards and accolades in the past year, including the prestigious "Best Software" award at COMDEX/Spring 1992 from BYTE, the COMPUTE Choice Award for "Best Database Product of 1992," the WindowsMagazine "Win 100" award and the BYTE "Award of Distinction." Additionally, Approach was the only database named a "Top 50 Best Buy for 1993" by Corporate Computing and has received the Buyers Assurance Seal from InfoWorld and the 1993 Windows Recommended Seal from WindowsMagazine.

Approach Software Corporation Approach Software Corporation was founded in 1990 with the objective of making database power accessible to a broad range of business professionals. Approach Software Corporation is headquartered in Redwood City, California with European headquarters in Munich, Germany.

Approach Software, 311 Penobscot Drive Redwood City, CA 94063

Tel: 415 306.7890;    Fax: 415.368.5182

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

Approach for Windows Awards of Distinction

1993 Winners and Their Applications

Best Example of Time/Money Saved

1st Place: Thomas Bullerman, CIGNA Corporation.

Relational database to market 500 Loss Control Services professionals to clients in a uniquely targeted fashion

2nd Place: Kimberly Granato, Chase Manhattan Bank.

Complex scheduling system for Bankcard agents.

3rd Place: Robert Faehnle, Auburn Career Center

Database for managing and reporting on student grades, schedules and district data.

Best Application By A First-Time Database User

1st Place: Gregory Johnson, Micro-Tek Support Services

Invoicing, inventory, product, customer & vendor database system which has automated entire business.

2nd Place: Nick Pandolfi, Enjay Equipment Sales Corporation

Complete graphical contact management system.

3rd Place: David Raab, American Builders

Mobile laptop application which tracks mortgage clients and mortgage loan status.

Most Creative Use of Approach for Windows

1st Place: Don Glor, City of San Mateo Fire Department

Innovative graphical application to manage fire department inventory, toxic chemicals and loss recovery status.

2nd Place: Larry Oster, Bromar Southern California

Relational database to manage & track mileage, service, license plates, personnel information and fleet credit card data for 255 cars used by food broker sales force.

3rd Place: Jerri-Jo Idarius, Mercury Computing

Complex relational database to track and report on natural remedies for medical ailments, with information cross referenced to symptoms, source, manufacturer and distributor.

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:swr-sys

:Network Software Associates Now NetSoft

Network Software Associates Changes Name to NetSoft

LAGUNA HILLS, CA, April 19, 1993 -- Network Software Associates, Inc., an industry pioneer in the field of PC-to-host communications software for IBM Systems Network Architecture (SNA) environments, today announced that it has officially changed its corporate name to NetSoft.

The name change signals NetSoft's emergence as a major participant in the rapidly expanding PC connectivity marketplace. Over the past two years, NetSoft increased annual sales by over 180%. The company, headquartered in Southern California, has opened direct sales and support offices in major cities throughout the United States, while simultaneously establishing third-party distribution networks both domestically and internationally. NetSoft recently expanded its traditional PC-to-mainframe software line with a new family of products for PC-to-AS/400 midrange connectivity called Elite/400.

"We feel that this new name more accurately reflects who we are today as a corporation," said NetSoft CEO Isaac (Zak) Kong. "When we started Network Software Associates, or NSA, back in 1980, we were a small group specializing in SNA consulting. Today, we have grown to become a worldwide supplier of PC based client-server solutions for multi-vendor, heterogeneous networks. Our new name NetSoft is friendlier, more succinct, and more memorable. We feel it is well suited to carry us to the next plateau in the 1990s and beyond."

NetSoft's consistent, dramatic growth is a result of the company's wide range of popular product offerings, plus important industry alliances with marketplace leaders. Over the years, NetSoft has established strategic partnerships with IBM, AT&T/NCR, Novell, McDATA, Sterling Software, LEGENT, and many others. Last month the company announced a strategic development agreement with Microsoft Corporation to supply a simplified 3270 communications emulator to be shipped with each and every copy of Microsoft's new high-end Windows NT operating system.

NetSoft has gained a reputation for innovation and reliability based on a long series of connectivity product breakthroughs. These include the first LU6.2/APPC cooperative processing software for DOS (AdaptSNA APPC, 1986), the first multiprotocol SNA solution for dial-up asynchronous connections (AdaptAsync, 1988), the first 3770/RJE solution for OS/2 (AdaptSNA/2 RJE, 1988), the first APPC software implemented as a true Windows applications (DynaComm/Elite APPC, 1 991), and the first Windows PC-to-AS/400 solution that eliminates the need for IBM's PC Support /400 software (Elite/400, 1992).

NetSoft sells primarily to large SNA customers with heterogeneous, multi-vendor network implementations. Customers include VISA, Avis, Bank of America, Delta Airlines, Hartford Insurance, MasterCard, Wells Fargo, American Honda, Mutual of Canada, American Express and others.

NetSoft is headquartered at 39 Argonaut, Laguna Hills, CA 92656. Phone: (714) 768-4013 or (800) 352-3270.


FirstClass Client for Windows Email & More
FirstClass Client for Windows Released

TORONTO--May 1st, 1993--SoftArc Inc. of Toronto is now shipping a Windows-based front end for its FirstClass E-mail, conferencing and remote access software.

The freely-distributable FirstClass Client for Windows offers features and functionality nearly identical to its companion FirstClass Macintosh client, and permits users to connect to Mac-based FirstClass servers via network or modem for E-mail and groupware conference access.

Clients on Macintosh or Windows may access the same, non-dedicated FirstClass server without dedicated Novell file servers, routers or other hardware. Network connections to the server from both machine types are made over the same physical Ethernet cable. The FirstClass server accepts logins over PC IPX AppleTalk and modem at the same time. Up to 250 users of any mixture of connection types may be accommodated simultaneously. One FirstClass server may accommodate more than 20 modems. Mail delivery between platforms is instantanous and users of Macintosh and Windows machines may even "chat" with each other in real time.

The FirstClass Windows client features the same asynchronous multiple file transfer capability, powerful E-mail functionality and electronic conferencing popular among users of the Macintosh graphical interface.

"There's been incredible demand for a FirstClass Windows interface. We're delighted to make this announcement, and look forward to seeing FirstClass solving communication problems in mixed-platform environments," said SoftArc President Steve Asbury.

Owners of FirstClass systems require a plug-in software option to accommodate Windows users via network or modem. The Windows option prices at $295 (U.S.) for unlimited users. Users of the Windows interface require a 386 or better running Microsoft Windows 3.1 or newer with a minimum of 4 MB of RAM.

SoftArc Inc

805 Middlefield Rd, Suite 102

Scarborough, Ontario, Canada M1V 2T9

416-299-4723;  fax: 416-754-1856;  BBS: 416-609-2250


Expert Home Design Golf for Windows
Expert Home Design Gold For Windows

The Next Generation In Home Design Programs

CORAL GABLES, Florida (April 16, 1993) - Expert Software, Inc. announces the release of its second Gold Series design program, Expert Home Design Gold for Windows. Recently, Expert Software shipped Expert Home Design Gold for DOS. Expert Home Design Gold for Windows brings the power and convenience of the Windows environment to the home planner at the low price of $49.95.

Expert Home Design Gold for Windows enters uncharted territory in the home design category by including two original features: real home plans and a 100 page booklet of design and decorating tips. For the first time in design software users can edit document files containing representations of these actual house plans from the popular home design magazine Home Styles Publishing.

"Given the popularity of home improvement/building software, we decided to broaden our horizons with the release of Expert Home Design Gold for Windows," said Sue Currier, president of Expert Software, Inc. "Expert Software now offers a user a simple to use design program (Expert Home Design) and a more advanced model (Expert Home Design Gold) for Windows and DOS for users who want the extra power to build an edition or design an entire home."

Expert Home Design Gold for Windows is unlike hard to learn CAD (Computer Aided Design) programs. It's as easy to use as a simple drawing program, but provides the power of CAD without the headaches.

With Expert Home Design Gold for Windows, you can create your own furniture drag 'n drop style, try different layouts with a single mouse movement, and use the 100 page Design and Decorating guide as a reference for advice and money saving tips.

Expert Home Design Gold for Windows makes it simple to design your own home plans with drawing tools including special tools for doors and windows. Expert Home Design Gold for Windows automatically measures as you draw in feet or meters and easily calculates square footage. The programs scaling controls and on-screen grids allow a user to be 100 percent accurate.

Expert Home Design Gold for Windows also includes the following additional features:

* Drag 'n Drop - A method of copying and moving objects by simply dragging them to their destination, only available in the Windows platform.

* OLE - A specialized form of data exchange between programs. Users can write a letter in a word processor, include a floor plan in it, and edit the plan while working on the letter.

* Over 125 realistic pieces, including home/office and specialized objects such as saunas.

* A costing program to help you track building and decorating expenses. It even figures Adjustable Rate Mortgages.

Expert Software is the developer of Windows, MS-DOS, and Macintosh titles which have appeared on many of the industry's leading hot and best seller lists. Expert Software is located at 800 Douglas Road, North Tower, Suite 355, Coral Gables. FL 33134-3128. For consumer product information contact: 800-759-2562; 305-567-9990; fax: 305-443-0786


Microbus Single Slot 486 Computer
MICROBUS INTRODUCES TRUE SINGLE SLOT 486 COMPUTER

Houston, TX - Microbus, Inc. has introduced the MAT-724 PC-Compatible Single Board Computer (SBC) for passive ISA backplane (PC/AT) systems. This CPU is the only board of This kind to incorporate one of several video options, Flash and Static RAM solid state disks, SCSI/2, and other standard disk I/O controllers in a true ISA single slot form factor.

Supporting the full line of 486 processors (486DX @ 25,33,50MHz and 486DX2 @ 50,66MHz), this SBC may be populated with up to 32MB of RAM and an optional 128KB external cache. On-board IDE and floppy disk controllers are standard, as are one parallel and two serial ports, and ports for a keyboard and PS/2 mouse. The option of a Future Domain 16 bit SCSI/2 controller allows OEMs the benefit of cost effective IDE disks and the performance and flexibility of high capacity SCSI tape, disk, and optical devices.

On-board video modules support flat panel displays (including TFT color models), 256 color Super VGA, VGA, and monochrome/CGA monitors. A GUI/Windows Accelerator is available with software drivers to increase the speed of video-intensive operating system interfaces. Video options provide an external connection via 9 or 15 pin D-type connectors and, on VGA and flat panel models, provide the VGA feature connector.

The solid state disk module provides a compact package for diskless and embedded applications. Based on TSOP packages, the type used in PC/MCIA memory disk cards, this non-volatile MEM-DISK is configurable with up to 2MB of Flash EEPROM memory, up to 1MB of Static RAM, or up to 1MB of Flash with .5MB of SRAM. Software is provided for programming Flash from a disk or downloading to Flash via serial port.

Microbus specializes in the design and manufacture of custom and standard single board computers for passive ISA backplane (PC/AT) systems, offering a complete line of SBCs based on 286 through 486 microprocessors.

Microbus, 550 Julie Rivers Dr. Suite 140, Sugar Land, TX 77478

Phone: 800/688-4405 or 713/1240-0400;   FAX: 713/240-4405


IMAGE IN and Desktop Imaging Studio Direct Link
Truvel Announces a Direct Link between IMAGE IN and the Desktop Imaging Studio for the PC

March 30, 1993 -- Herndon, VA: Truvel, a division of Vidar Systems Corporation, today announced the addition of a scanner plug-in for IMAGE IN on the PC platform. According to George Patrick, Vidar's Vice President of Sales, "The PC version of our Desktop Imaging Studio is greatly enhanced by the ability to scan and manipulate images within IMAGE-IN COLOR. This program provides total control of the image editing process. Add this feature to the capabilities of the Imaging Studio and the result is the most versatile imaging system available for publishers of catalogues and promotional materials."

IMAGE IN COLOR is a 24-bit color image editing program that runs under Microsoft Windows version 3.x in both standard and enhanced mode. Truvel users can acquire and process images with the program, and have access to advanced color scanning and manipulation capabilities. IMAGE IN COLOR provides superior CMYK color separations as well as HSV and RGB color selection. Users scan directly from within the program and output the images through IMAGE IN to any of the popular page layout programs. Image files may be output as TIFF, EPS, PICT and other standard file formats. An upgrade to Image-In Professional, is avail able directly from Image In, Incorporated at an attractive price.

The Desktop Imaging Studio offers the flexibility a designer needs to retain control of the production process by eliminating the need for outside services. The Imaging Studio is a feature rich system which includes optical resolution from 75 to 900 dpi, the option to scan line art with the proficiency of a stat camera, and the ability to capture high resolution images of small objects for catalogs and manuals. With the addition of the IMAGE-IN plug-in, the Desktop Imaging Studio is equally versatile in both PC and Macintosh arenas.

Truvel, a division of Vidar Systems Corporation, has been manufacturing scanners for the computer workplace since 1987.

Truvel, 520 Herndon Parkway, Herndon, VA 22070

Phone: 703/471-7070;   Fax: 703/471-1165


Microbus Half Slot 486SLC/386SX SBC's
MICROBUS INTRODUCES HALF SLOT 486SLC/386SX SINGLE BOARD COMPUTER

Houston, TX - Microbus, Inc. has introduced the MAT-715 PC-Compatible Single Board Computer (SBC) for passive ISA backplane (PC/AT) systems. This CPU is the only board of its kind to incorporate one of several video options, Flash and Static RAM solid state disks and other standard disk/IO controllers in a true ISA half slot form factor. Supporting the Cyrix 486SLC (@25,33 MHz) and the Intel 386SX (16,25,33 MHz) processors, this SBC may be populated with up to 8MB of RAM and features IDE and floppy disk controllers, one parallel and two serial ports, and ports for a keyboard and PS/2 mouse.

On-board video modules support flat panel displays (including TFT color models), Hi-Color Super VGA, VGA, and monochrome/CGA monitors. A GUI/Windows Accelerator is available with software drivers to increase the speed of video-intensive operating system interfaces. Video options provide an external connection via 9 or 15 pin D-type connectors and, on VGA and flat panel models, provide a VGA feature connector.

The solid state disk module provides a compact package for diskless and embedded applications. Based on TSOP packages, the type used in PC/MCIA memory disk cards, this non-volatile module is configurable with up to 2MB of Flash EEPROM memory, up to 1MB of Static RAM, or up to 1MB of Flash with .5MB of SRAM. Software is provided for programming Flash from a disk or downloading to Flash via serial port.

Microbus specializes in the design and manufacture of custom and standard single board computers for passive ISA backplane (PC/AT) systems, offering a complete line of SBCs based on 286 through 486 microprocessors.

Microbus, 550 Julie Rivers Dr. Suite 140, Sugar Land, TX 77478

Phone: 800/688-4405 or 713/1240-0400;   FAX: 713/240-4405


Approach 1st Annual Awards of Distinction
Approach Software Announces Winners of First Annual Awards of Distinction

Winners include users from CIGNA, Chase Manhattan Bank and a California Fire Department

Redwood City Calif., April 23, 1993--Approach Software Corporation today announced the winners of its first annual Approach for Windows Awards of Distinction.

The competition is designed to recognize user excellence in each of the following categories:

* Best Example of Time/Money Saved Using Approach for Windows

* Best Application by a First-Time Database User

* Most Creative Use of Approach for Windows

All registered users of Approach 2.0 for Windows were eligible to enter. The first place winners in each category are:

First Place for "Best Example of Time/Money Saved" is awarded to Thomas Bullerman, Loss Control Manager in the Property and Casualty division of the CIGNA Corporation. Bullerman projects an estimated $100,000 of annual savings with an application that automatically matches Loss Control Services (LCS) professionals with appropriate clients and tailors their credentials to match specific needs. Focused, industry-specific marketing is a critical competitive advantage in a division where each professional handles about 500 cases per year.

For "Best Application by a First-Time Database User," the winner is Gregory Johnson, a general business and desktop publishing consultant. Johnson, who has never before used a database, designed his award winning business automation system to include full product, invoice, vendor, inventory and customer databases. According to client company President, Linda Jackson, virtually the entire business is now run using Approach for Windows.

First Place for "Most Creative Use of Approach for Windows" is awarded to Don Glor, with the City of San Mateo California Fire Department. Glor has developed powerful applications for tracking toxic chemical exposure as well as managing cost recovery from parties responsible for emitting toxic chemicals. Glor has also built an innovative inventory management system in which users are presented with a visual representation of a fire truck and can click anywhere on the vehicle to access and update inventory information for that particular section of the truck. Although Glor won in the "Most Creative" category, he is also a first-time database user.

Second and third place winners included users from a variety of businesses ranging from an application that manages scheduling for the Bankcard Division of Chase Manhattan Bank to a relational database that manages a fleet of 225 cars for a food broker business.

"We were delighted with the overwhelming number of applications demonstrating the innovation and productivity of our users," said Kevin Harvey, President of Approach Software Corporation. "The number of first time database users who had developed powerful business applications was especially gratifying," he added.

Approach for Windows Background

Approach for Windows is an end user database designed to make managing and reporting on information easy even for novices. Because of its outstanding ease of use, Approach for Windows appeared on bestseller lists shortly after it shipped 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.

More than 20 Awards and Accolades

Approach has captured more than 20 awards and accolades in the past year, including the prestigious "Best Software" award at COMDEX/Spring 1992 from BYTE, the COMPUTE Choice Award for "Best Database Product of 1992," the WindowsMagazine "Win 100" award and the BYTE "Award of Distinction." Additionally, Approach was the only database named a "Top 50 Best Buy for 1993" by Corporate Computing and has received the Buyers Assurance Seal from InfoWorld and the 1993 Windows Recommended Seal from WindowsMagazine.

Approach Software Corporation Approach Software Corporation was founded in 1990 with the objective of making database power accessible to a broad range of business professionals. Approach Software Corporation is headquartered in Redwood City, California with European headquarters in Munich, Germany.

Approach Software, 311 Penobscot Drive Redwood City, CA 94063

Tel: 415 306.7890;    Fax: 415.368.5182

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

Approach for Windows Awards of Distinction

1993 Winners and Their Applications

Best Example of Time/Money Saved

1st Place: Thomas Bullerman, CIGNA Corporation.

Relational database to market 500 Loss Control Services professionals to clients in a uniquely targeted fashion

2nd Place: Kimberly Granato, Chase Manhattan Bank.

Complex scheduling system for Bankcard agents.

3rd Place: Robert Faehnle, Auburn Career Center

Database for managing and reporting on student grades, schedules and district data.

Best Application By A First-Time Database User

1st Place: Gregory Johnson, Micro-Tek Support Services

Invoicing, inventory, product, customer & vendor database system which has automated entire business.

2nd Place: Nick Pandolfi, Enjay Equipment Sales Corporation

Complete graphical contact management system.

3rd Place: David Raab, American Builders

Mobile laptop application which tracks mortgage clients and mortgage loan status.

Most Creative Use of Approach for Windows

1st Place: Don Glor, City of San Mateo Fire Department

Innovative graphical application to manage fire department inventory, toxic chemicals and loss recovery status.

2nd Place: Larry Oster, Bromar Southern California

Relational database to manage & track mileage, service, license plates, personnel information and fleet credit card data for 255 cars used by food broker sales force.

3rd Place: Jerri-Jo Idarius, Mercury Computing

Complex relational database to track and report on natural remedies for medical ailments, with information cross referenced to symptoms, source, manufacturer and distributor.


Network Software Associates Now NetSoft
Network Software Associates Changes Name to NetSoft

LAGUNA HILLS, CA, April 19, 1993 -- Network Software Associates, Inc., an industry pioneer in the field of PC-to-host communications software for IBM Systems Network Architecture (SNA) environments, today announced that it has officially changed its corporate name to NetSoft.

The name change signals NetSoft's emergence as a major participant in the rapidly expanding PC connectivity marketplace. Over the past two years, NetSoft increased annual sales by over 180%. The company, headquartered in Southern California, has opened direct sales and support offices in major cities throughout the United States, while simultaneously establishing third-party distribution networks both domestically and internationally. NetSoft recently expanded its traditional PC-to-mainframe software line with a new family of products for PC-to-AS/400 midrange connectivity called Elite/400.

"We feel that this new name more accurately reflects who we are today as a corporation," said NetSoft CEO Isaac (Zak) Kong. "When we started Network Software Associates, or NSA, back in 1980, we were a small group specializing in SNA consulting. Today, we have grown to become a worldwide supplier of PC based client-server solutions for multi-vendor, heterogeneous networks. Our new name NetSoft is friendlier, more succinct, and more memorable. We feel it is well suited to carry us to the next plateau in the 1990s and beyond."

NetSoft's consistent, dramatic growth is a result of the company's wide range of popular product offerings, plus important industry alliances with marketplace leaders. Over the years, NetSoft has established strategic partnerships with IBM, AT&T/NCR, Novell, McDATA, Sterling Software, LEGENT, and many others. Last month the company announced a strategic development agreement with Microsoft Corporation to supply a simplified 3270 communications emulator to be shipped with each and every copy of Microsoft's new high-end Windows NT operating system.

NetSoft has gained a reputation for innovation and reliability based on a long series of connectivity product breakthroughs. These include the first LU6.2/APPC cooperative processing software for DOS (AdaptSNA APPC, 1986), the first multiprotocol SNA solution for dial-up asynchronous connections (AdaptAsync, 1988), the first 3770/RJE solution for OS/2 (AdaptSNA/2 RJE, 1988), the first APPC software implemented as a true Windows applications (DynaComm/Elite APPC, 1 991), and the first Windows PC-to-AS/400 solution that eliminates the need for IBM's PC Support /400 software (Elite/400, 1992).

NetSoft sells primarily to large SNA customers with heterogeneous, multi-vendor network implementations. Customers include VISA, Avis, Bank of America, Delta Airlines, Hartford Insurance, MasterCard, Wells Fargo, American Honda, Mutual of Canada, American Express and others.

NetSoft is headquartered at 39 Argonaut, Laguna Hills, CA 92656. Phone: (714) 768-4013 or (800) 352-3270.


Aegis Peripheral Intros Mac Hard Drive Line
NEW ENTRY IN APPLE PERIPHERAL INDUSTRY

AEGIS PERIPHERAL TECHNOLOGIES ENTERS $6B MARKET

April 28, 1993 -- LITTLETON, MA - Targeting a share of the growing $6 Billion computer data storage market, AEGIS PERIPHERALS INC. has emerged as a joint venture between Advanced Media Services and Antares Technology, both in Eastern Massachusetts.  Advertisements in trade magazines and other publications are scheduled to begin this month, and both AEGIS and their initial products are rapidly attracting notice.

According to Joseph P. Thomas, Vice-President and Co-Founder of AEGIS, "The company's goal is to produce the best value in data storage solutions for Macintosh computers.  That means high-quality, competitively-priced, and reliable products, as well as service and support to back them up."  As proof of this committment, AEGIS offers extended warranties, ships their products fully tested & formatted, and includes a disk optimization package from Software Architects Inc. with each hard drive.

AEGIS is using a direct-marketing strategy for their introductory line of hard drives ranging from 120 Megabytes to 1.24 Gigabytes, which use proven mechanisms and technology from Maxtor Corporation.  Other products, including CD-ROM and removable media, are planned for later release.  With prices below many competitors, AEGIS is measuring up as a serious contender in the computer peripheral industry.  Contact AEGIS PERIPHERAL TECHNOLOGIES for further information at (508) 486-0831.

MODEL   CAPACITY   ACCESS TIME  INTERNAL  EXTERNAL  WARRANTY

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

A120S   120Meg     15 millisec  $239.00   $305.00   2 years

A213S   213Meg     15 ms        $329.00   $399.00   2 years

A340S   340Meg     15 ms        $589.00   $659.00   2 years

A540S   540Meg     8.5 ms       $945.00 $1,029.00   2 years

A1240S  1.2 Gig    8.5 ms     $1,490.00 $1,575.00   3 years

* Extended warranties are availible

* Shipped fully tested & formatted

* All drives include FORMATTER ONE Optimization Software

* Includes all brackets, cables & hardware needed for

      installation

* 30-day Money-Back Guarantee

           VISA/MASTERCARD/AMERICAN EXPRESS

                  (800) 451-6457

            AEGIS Peripheral Technologies

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

AEGIS Model A120S

____________________KEY FEATURES______________________

*>150,000 hour MTBF    *64K on-board cache    *1:1 interleave

*Single-sided surface mount PCBA           *Rotary Voice Coil

*15ms access time      *Embedded SCSI controller

*Low power consumption     *Automatic Actuator Lock

________________________SPECIFICATIONS_______________________

Typical formatted storage capacity (megabytes)..........124.8

Embedded Controller......................................SCSI

Actuator Type......................................Voice coil

Number of disks.............................................2

Data surfaces...............................................4

Data heads..................................................4

Servo................................................Embedded

Tracks per surface......................................1,516

Track density (average).............................1,800 tpi

Track capacity (formatted).............................21,504

Bytes per block...........................................512

Blocks per drive......................................254,688

Sectors per track.................................42 physical

PERFORMANCE (Typical)________________________________________

Seek Times (ms)

     Track to track.........................................3

     Average...............................................15

     Maximum...............................................27

Average latency (ms)......................................8.5

Rotation speed.......................................3524 RPM

Controller overhead.......................................1ms

Data transfer rate (Mbytes per sec)

     To/from media........................1.5

     To/from buffer (SCSI)................5 (sync) 3 (async)

Start time/power up (0-3, 3524 RPM)

     Typical..........................................<5 sec

     Maximum..........................................40 sec

Stop time/power down

     Maximum...........................................3 sec

     Maximum..........................................10 sec

Start/stop cycles..................................20,000 min

Interleave................................................1:1

Buffer size...............................................64K

Interface................................................SCSI

Recording method......................................1,7 RLL

Recording density - ID.............................34,087 bpi

Flux density - ID.................................25,565 kfci

POWER REQUIREMENTS___________________________________________

MODE.........+12V DC +/-8%.......+5V DC +/-5%........Power

Spin-Up      1.0A/912 mA         240/406 mA

R/W           215/203 mA         270/354 mA          3.9/4.5W

Idle          120/204 mA          50/340 mA          1.7/4.1W

ENVIRONMENTAL________________________________________________

Temperature

Operating.................................5 deg C to 50 deg C

non-operating.................Low temperature (-40 deg C) per

                               MIL-STD-810E, method 502.3

High temperature per MIL-STD-810E, method 501.3,

hot induced conditions

Thermal gradient.......................20 deg C per hour max.

Humidity

Operating,.........................Per MIL-STD-810E,method

non-operating,                     507.3 natural high

and storage                        humidity, cycle 3 26 deg C

Altitude (relative to sea level)

Operating...................................-200 to 10,000 ft

non-operating...................Per MIL-STD-810E,method 500.3

                            low pressure proceedure 1-storage

                                test condition 2

RELIABILITY AND MAINTENANCE__________________________________

MTBF............................150,000 (POH, power-on hours)

AFR..................< or = to 1.7% (Annualized failure rate)

Component design life.......................5 years (minimum)

AQL/DPM.............................................3,500 DPM

Preventative maintenance.................................None

Data reliability....................<10 per 100 trillion bits

                                      read (hard read errors)

Shock & vibration (typical) [Shock measured at half-sine pulse.

Vibration measured at swept sine wave, 1 octave/min]

Non-operating shock................................70Gs, 11ms

Operating shock.......................10Gs, 11ms (without

                                      non-recoverable errors)

non-operating vibration........Per MIL-STD-810E,method 514.4,

                               basic transportation axis PSD

                               (60 minutes/axis) vertical

Operating vibration

5-20 Hz................................0.05" double amplitude

20-300 Hz..................................1 G peak amplitude

Audible noise @ 1 meter................................35 dBA

Warranty..............................................2 years

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

AEGIS Model A213S

________________________KEY FEATURES_________________________

*64K on-board cache    *1:1 interleave     *Rotary Voice Coil

*Single-sided surface mount PCBA            *15ms access time

*Dual drive master/slave support      *Zone density recording

*Low power consumption               *Automatic Actuator Lock

_______________________SPECIFICATIONS________________________

Typical formatted storage capacity (megabytes)..........212.8

Embedded Controller......................................SCSI

Actuator Type......................................Voice coil

Number of disks.............................................2

Data surfaces...............................................4

Data heads..................................................4

Servo................................................Embedded

Tracks per surface......................................1,698

Track density.......................................1,973 tpi

Bytes per block...........................................512

Blocks per drive SCSI (user)..........................415,600

Sectors per track (5 zones).............................48-72

PERFORMANCE (Typical)________________________________________

Seek Times (ms)

     Track to track.........................................3

     Average...............................................15

     Maximum...............................................27

Average latency (ms).....................................8.45

Rotation speed......................................3,551 RPM

Controller overhead(ms)...................................  1

Data transfer rate (Mbytes per sec)

     To/from media......................................2.83

     To/from buffer (SCSI)...............................7.5

Start time/power up (0-3,551 RPM)

     Typical.................................< or = to 6 sec

Stop time/power down

     Typical.................................< or = to 3 sec

Start/stop cycles..............................20,000 typical

Interleave................................................1:1

Buffer size...............................................64K

Interface................................................SCSI

Recording method......................................1,7 RLL

Recording density (kbpi).........................42.7 maximum

Flux density (kfci)..............................32.0 maximum

POWER REQUIREMENTS___________________________________________

MODE..........+12V DC +/-8%........+5V DC +/-5%.........Power

Spin-Up        846/700 mA           328/180 mA         NA/10W

R/W            150/185 mA           348/300 mA       3.7/3.5W

ENVIRONMENTAL________________________________________________

Temperature

Operating.................................5 deg C to 50 deg C

non-operating/storage.........Low temperature (-40 deg C) per

                                   MIL-STD-810E, method 502.3

High temperature per MIL-STD-810E, method 501.3, hot induced

conditions

Thermal gradient.......................20 deg C per hour max.

Humidity

Operating,............................Per MIL-STD-810E,method

non-operating,                        507.3 natural high

and storage                           humidity, cycle 3

Altitude (relative to sea level)

Operating...................................-200 to 10,000 ft

non-operating...................Per MIL-STD-810E,method 500.3

                            low pressure proceedure 1-storage

                                test condition 2

RELIABILITY AND MAINTENANCE__________________________________

MTBF...........................>150,000 (POH, power-on hours)

AFR..................< or = to 1.0% (Annualized failure rate)

Component design life.......................5 years (minimum)

AQL/DPM.............................................3,500 DPM

Preventative maintenance.................................None

Data reliability....................<10 per 100 trillion bits

                                      read (hard read errors)

Shock & vibration (typical) [Shock measured at half-sine

pulse. Vibration measured at swept sine, 1 octave/min]

Non-operating shock................................70Gs, 11ms

Operating shock...........................10Gs, 11ms (without

                                      non-recoverable errors)

non-operating vibration........Per MIL-STD-810E,method 514.4,

                               basic transportation axis PSD

                               (60 minutes/axis) vertical

Operating vibration

5-20 Hz................................0.05" double amplitude

20-300 Hz..................................1 G peak amplitude

Audible noise @ 1 meter (typical in idle mode).........35 dBA

Warranty..............................................2 years

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

AEGIS Model A540S

________________________KEY FEATURES_________________________

*8.5 ms read 9 ms write ave seek time (typical)

*Synchronous SCSI-2 fast transfer rates to 10Ms, 15-byte offset

*Disk tranfer rate to 40 Mbits/sec, buffer to disk

*Advanced buffer implementation

   -256 KB multi-segmented read ahead

   -Write stacking capability

   -Tagged command cueuing

*Power-down braking with positive head parking and latching

*Integrated surface-mount components for high reliability

*Brushless in-hub spindle motor

*Sealed HDA       *No sway space required  *Self-test diagnostics

*88-bit ECC for high data reliability with on the fly correction capability

*Synchronized spindle capability for disk array applications

*Ultra-low mass rotary voice-coil actuator

*Self calibration and built in diagnostics

*Allows various sector sizes

*Firmware downloadble via SCSI interface

*16-bit Mhz processor

*Hard sectored zoned density recording

*8-zone recording format

*1,7 RLL data encoding for improved window margins

PERFORMANCE__________________________________________________

Typical formatted storage capacity (megabytes)

     Per drive (Mbytes)...................................540

     Per sector (bytes)...................................512

     Spare capacity (Mbytes)..............................6.2

SCSI-bus tranfer rate (Mbytes/sec)

     Asynchronous...................................Up to 5.0

     Synchronous...................................Up to 10.0

Disk transfer rate (Mbits/sec)..........................23-40

Seek time (msec), typical

     Read.................................................8.5

     Write..................................................9

     Track-to-track......................................<1.5

     Maximum...............................................20

SCSI Command overhead (usec)....................< or = to 300

Rotational Speed (rpm).........................6,300 +/- 0.5%

Average latency (msec)...................................4.76

FUNCTIONAL___________________________________________________

Data zones..................................................8

Bit density (Kbpi)......................................37-42

Track density (tpi).....................................2,600

Disks.......................................................4

Data heads..................................................7

Servo heads.................................................1

Physical tracks........................................16,968

Sectors/track (5 zones).................................46-78

Physical cylinders......................................2,616

ENVIRONMENTAL________________________________________________

Temperature Limits

     Operating............................5 deg C to 55 deg C

     non-operating/storage.................-40 deg C 65 deg C

     Temperature gradient/hr......................20 deg C/hr

Relative Humidity Limits (non-condensing)

     Operating.......................................5 to 95%

     Non-operating...................................5 to 95%

     Maximum gradient/hr..................................20%

     Maximum wet bulb..............................27.6 deg C

Shock (Gs)

     Non-operating.........................................70

     Operating (no erros)...................................3

     Operating (recoverable errors)........................10

Power dissipation (typical)...........................9 watts

Audible noise @ 1 meter................................40 dBA

Power requirements

     +12 VDC +/-5%, .54A(typical)

     1.5A (maximum)

     +5 VDC +/- 5%. .50A (typical)

RELIABILITY__________________________________________________

MTBF............................................300,000 hours

PM...............................................Not required

MTTR...............................................30 minutes

Component design life................................>5 years

Recoverable error rate............< or = to 10 in 10 trillion

Unrecoverable error rate.......< or = to 10 in 10 quadrillion

Seek error rate....................< or = to 10 in 10 million

Warranty..............................................2 years

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

AEGIS Model A1240S

________________________KEY FEATURES_________________________

*8.5 ms read 9 ms write ave seek time (typical)

*SCSI command overhead of < or = to 300 usec

*Synchronous SCSI-2 fast transfer rates to 10Mbytes/sec, 15-byte offset

*Disk tranfer rate to 44.4 Mbits/sec, buffer to disk

*Advanced buffer implementation

   -256 KB multi-segmented read ahead

   -Write stacking capability

   -Tagged command cueuing

*Power-down braking with positive head parking and latching

*Integrated surface-mount components for high reliability

*Brushless in-hub spindle motor

*Sealed HDA

*8-point shock mounting system

*88-bit ECC for high data reliability with on the fly correction capability

*Self-test diagnostics

*Mechanically and thermally isolated head-disk environment

*Exceptionally quiet operation

*Synchronized spindle capability for disk array applications

*Ultra-low mass rotary voice-coil actuator

*Self calibration and built in diagnostics

*Mounts in any orientation

*Allows various sector sizes

*Firmware downloadble via SCSI interface

*16-bit/35-Mhz processor

*Hard sectored zoned density recording

*8-zone recording format

*1,7 RLL data encoding for improved window margins

_______________________SPECIFICATIONS________________________

PERFORMANCE__________________________________________________

Typical formatted storage capacity (megabytes)

     Per drive (Mbytes).................................1,240

     Per sector (bytes)...................................512

     Spare capacity (Mbytes)..............................7.7

SCSI-bus tranfer rate (Mbytes/sec)

     Asynchronous...................................Up to 5.0

     Synchronous...................................Up to 10.0

Disk transfer rate (Mbits/sec)......................22.7-44.7

Seek time (msec), typical

     Read.................................................8.5

     Write..................................................9

     Track-to-track......................................<1.5

     Maximum...............................................20

SCSI Command overhead (usec)....................< or = to 300

Rotational Speed (rpm).........................6,300 +/- 0.5%

Average latency (msec)...................................4.76

FUNCTIONAL___________________________________________________

Data zones..................................................8

Bit density (Kbpi)......................................41-43

Track density (tpi).....................................2,600

Disks.......................................................8

Data heads.................................................15

Servo heads.................................................1

Physical tracks........................................37,689

Sectors/track (5 zones).................................44-85

Physical cylinders......................................2,512

ENVIRONMENTAL________________________________________________

Temperature Limits

     Operating............................5 deg C to 55 deg C

     non-operating/storage.................-40 deg C 65 deg C

     Temperature gradient/hr......................20 deg C/hr

Relative Humidity Limits (non-condensing)

     Operating.......................................5 to 95%

     Non-operating...................................5 to 95%

     Maximum gradient/hr..................................20%

     Maximum wet bulb..............................27.6 deg C

Shock (Gs)

     Non-operating.........................................50

     Operating (no erros)...................................3

     Operating (recoverable errors)........................10

Power dissipation (typical)..........................13 watts

Audible noise @ 1 foot.................................30 dBA

Power requirements

     +12 VDC +/-5%, .79A(typical)

     2.5A (maximum)

     +5 VDC +/- 5%. .81A (typical)

RELIABILITY__________________________________________________

MTBF............................................300,000 hours

PM...............................................Not required

MTTR...............................................30 minutes

Component design life................................>5 years

Recoverable error rate............< or = to 10 in 10 trillion

Unrecoverable error rate.......< or = to 10 in 10 quadrillion

Seek error rate....................< or = to 10 in 10 million

Warranty..............................................3 years

_____________________________________________________________

The AEGIS line is availible only through AEGIS PERIPHERAL TECHNOLOGIES.  Drives are shipped fully tested & formatted.  All necessary brackets, hardware, and cables are included, as well as FORMATTER ONE disk optimization software from Software Architects,Inc.  Extended warranties are availible.  30-day money-back guarantee.  Call (800) 451-6457 for more information or to order your "cutting edge" data storage peripherals.  Visa/Mastercard/Discover/American Express.


Innovative Integration 32-bit Supercontroller
Innovative Integration is pleased to announce the two newest additions to the Supercontroller Series of high performance computers; The PC31 which uses the Texas Instruments TMS320C31 microprocessor and the SBC25 which employs the Texas Instruments TMS320C25 microprocessor. Both are available with "C" or FORTH-based development environments to a provide complete, integrated solutions to the development and implementation of real-time applications.

Optimized for the execution of digital signal processing algorithms, the TI TMS320C25 processor employs a modified Harvard architecture and executes at a sustained rate of 12 MIPS. The processor provides an on-chip 16-bit timer, a 32-bit multiplier/accumulator, three prioritized interrupts, ROM, SRAM and a synchronous 2 MBaud serial port.

To cost effectively address the most demanding DSP applications, the PC31 utilizes the TMS320C31 32-bit processor which directly addresses memory to 16MWords and provides onchip floating point hardware capable of sustained, 17 MIPS/33 MFLOPS performance.

Each of the Supercontroller CPUs is tightly integrated with a comprehensive array of on-board peripherals including serial, parallel digital and analog I/O and a broad range of memory and external peripheral configuration options. Additionally, each provides a prioritized interrupt controller, counter/timers, a watchdog timer, programmable wait state generation, optional battery-backed data storage and much more.

Innovative Integrations own II-C or II-Forth, available for each Supercontroller CPU, support an extensible, interactive software development environment. Targeted specifically for high-speed applications, each environment provides zero-overhead interrupts, extensive single and double precision and floatingpoint math libraries, source code management tools and the most complete compiler available for the processor. Communication with each CPU is supported via a high-speed hardware link to an IBM PC/AT (or compatible) which provides graphic terminal emulation and disk support.

Innovative Integration supercontroller products have been successfully utilized in many, diverse fields including embedded instrumentation, drinking water environmental analysis, automated food processing, star and satellite tracking and a broad range of signal processing and factory control applications.

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

PC31 32-Bit Supercontroller w/Hardware Floating Point

Introducing the PC31...

The PC31 is a very high performance, IBM PC plug-in coprocessor featuring the Texas Instruments TMS320C31 DSP processor. The PC31 Is ideally suited for tasks such as demanding digital signal processing, real time control, video and audio signal manipulation and other computationally Intensive data acquisition/reduction tasks. Use the PC31 to collect and analyze high speed analog signals for data collectors or generate servo controls with analog or digital outputs.

The TMS320C31 DSP processor meets all of the requirements for high-speed, realtime applications: 17 MIPS/33MFLOPS of processing power, hardware floating point multiplier/accumulator, DMA controller, onchip synchronous serial port, 15 prioritized interrupts and much more. The C31 has special hardware support for real-time filters and control algorithms

Interactive Development..

Software is interactively developed and tested using the optimizing 100% ANSI-compatible C compiler or incremental FORTH compiler. Applications are quickly developed and tested using the comprehensive integer and floating point math, analog/digital l/O and video display libraries provided with the Developers Package. All system and application procedures may conveniently be interactively edited, tested and executed at full machine speed. No more reduced speed emulation!

The board serves as its own complete development system using the system monitor (resident in PROM) in combination with the editor, compiler and all other essential software tools supplied in the Developers Package. Once an application has been created, it may be embedded in PROM for standalone operation or downloaded to the board from within application software running on the host IBM PC.

The PC31 communicates with an IBM PC/AT, or equivalent, via a high-speed dual port memory arrangement which allows access to all PC31 memory and peripherals from the IBM PC.

Highly Configurable...

The PC31 may be integrated with l.l.s memory expansion board to address large data gathering applications or our audio l/O card to address high-fidelity audio applications. Interfacing with external peripherals is accomplished via the 10-pin serial, 37 pin analog, 50 pin digital, 26 pin digital or 108 pin expansion connectors. Additionally, the PC31 is compatible with the full line of DSP-LINK analog and digital l/O cards. Inexpensive, slower memories are accommodated using wait states and any of the on-board peripheral ICs may be deleted to reduce cost in OEM applications. The PC31 can be configured to fit your specific requirements and provide an optimal mix of performance, cost and features.

INNOVATIVE INTEGRATION

4086 Little Hollow Place, Moorpark, CA  93021

(805) 529-7570;   (805) 529 7932 FAX


Multi-Tech Upgrades MultiExpress Datacomm Swr
Multi-Tech Upgrades MultiExpress Datacomm/Remote-Control Software

MOUNDS VIEW, MINN., April 8, 1993--Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. announced today its upgrade of the popular MultiExpress for DOS data communications software. MultiExpress retains its traditional features, supporting dial-in, dial-out, and remote-control communications for independent and networked PCs. The headline enhancements include remote control of Windows 3.x applications, mouse support in DOS and Windows applications as well as in all user interfaces, and support for multiple datacomm lines. MultiExpress will be available near the end of April, 1993, under the following pricing structure:

Single-user license ........$199

Site licensed for 5 users ..$399

     for  10 users..........$599

     for  20 users..........$999

     for  50 users.........$2199

     for 100 users.........$4199

According to Multi-Tech President Raghu Sharma, "Increasing interest in data communications between local area networks and wide area networks makes versatility an important aspect of today's datacomm software packages. As modem technologies improve, remote-control access to LANs becomes more feasible, and Windows will play a major role in that access. This means the software must operate in environments which include PCs, LANs and mainframe systems and be able to remotely control DOS and Windows applications. MultiExpress is tailored to give the user access to these environments."

MultiExpress operates with serial ports, Multi-Tech ISI ports, and Asynchronous Communications Servers (ACS) which implement MCSI (Interrupt 6B) or Interrupt 14 software redirection with speeds up to 115.2K bps. It also supports peer-to-peer, remote-control sessions over network interface cards which use IPX or NetBIOS drivers. Plus, it supports up to 255 pre-configured and user-customized modem listings of "AT-command" compatible modems.

MultiExpress implements a powerful C-based script language with over 150 commands to automate tedious tasks such as a complex login procedure or up/downloading particular files. Script files may be run from the DOS prompt or from the dialing program interface for string operations, mathematical functions, file operations, program flow control, display command functions, terminal settings, dialing and session management, predefined system variable settings, and more.

MultiExpress provides emulation of VT100, TTY, ANSI, IBM 3101, and Hex Dump to accommodate a variety of remote systems, bulletin board systems and mini/mainframe computers with which users may wish to connect. It also supports ASCII, XModem, YModem, YModem-G, YMODEM-Batch, YModemG-Batch, ZModem and Kermit, and Compuserve B+, and the user can install up to three external file transfer protocols. File transfers have compression built in regardless of which protocol is selected.

Multi-Tech Systems, which reported sales of $81 Million for 1992, was founded in 1970 to manufacture data communications equipment and systems for the global market of networking product users. The Minnesota-based company is well-known for its MultiModem line of dial-up communications products. Multi-Tech's family of products includes a complete line of data/fax modems, MultiMux statistical multiplexers, DSUs, 3270/3780/5250 emulation systems, X.25 PADs, UNIX serial interfaces, communications software, LAN/WAN connectivity products, and most recently, the MultiModemPCS, a voice/data/fax personal communication system. These products are sold in over 70 countries through a worldwide network of distributors, manufacturer's reps, system integrators, value-added resellers (VARs) and retailers. Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. can be contacted at its headquarters: 2205 Woodale Drive, Mounds View, Minnesota 55112. Voice (612) 785-3500 or (800) 328-9717, FAX (612) 785-9874, International FAX (612) 331-3180.


Multi-Tech Adds 486 Technology to LAN/WAN Prods
Multi-Tech Adds 486 Technology To LAN/WAN Products

MOUNDS VIEW, MINNESOTA--April 9, 1993--Multi-Tech Systems Inc., a leading data communications technology company, announced today that it is enhancing its 386SX processor based MultiModemLAN and Single Board Computer (SBC) line with 486SX compatible microprocessors. The new 486SX compatible MultiModemLAN (model number MT1432ECT4) is priced at $2199, and the SBC (model number MT486SLC) at $1395.

According to Multi-Tech President Raghu Sharma, "The increased processing power offered by the new microprocessor in our MultiModemLAN and SBC means compute-intensive applications can be done faster. Applications like graphics, sorting databases and certain Windows-based applications such as desktop publishing will be done more efficiently and quickly. This will translate into smaller phone bills when remotely accessing LANs, because it will take less connect time. In the case of remotely controlling a Windows host, the increased power of the microprocessor will result in smoother interaction between the remote site and host processors."

The new microprocessor is 486SX instruction set compatible with a 32-bit internal/16-bit external data path, and will run DOS, Windows and UNIX. With a 25 MHz maximum clock frequency it will run up to 2.4 time faster that 386SX or 386SL processors at the same clock frequency. The processor comes equipped with 2 megabytes of memory expandable to 16 using standard 4 Meg SIMMs.

The MT1432ECT4 MultiModemLAN is a networking modem that directly connects to either 10BASE2 (Thinnet) or 10BASET (twisted pair) Ethernet segments on Novell IPX/SPX LANS. The MultiModemLAN is equipped with a V.32bis/V.42bis data modem which, can transmit data up to 57.6K bps and a Group 3/Class 2 fax modem that can send or receive faxes at 9600 or 14.4K bps with any fax machine or fax equipped computer in the world. The MultiModemLAN can accommodate a second modem via a standard 9-pin serial port (DB9 connector.) It comes bundled with MultiExpress data communications and MultiExpress Fax Server software. The MultiModemLAN can operate as a fully equipped one or two modem data/fax communications server.

The MT486SLC Single Board Computer (SBC) is equipped with two serial ports, 1 parallel port, floppy and hard disk controllers, and a VGA controller providing 800 x 600 pixel density in a 16-color format. The SBC is designed for use in Multi-Tech's MultiArray product line. The MultiArrays are ISA segmented backplane units that can be used for a variety of communications controller applications. A typical application for a MultiArray is as a data/fax communications server on a Novell LAN. One segment in the array would contain the server controller and multiport serial cards for attaching modems. The remaining segments would contain SBCs (e.g. MT486SLCs) which would act as host processors for remote control applications. MultiArrays come bundled with MultiExpress data communications software.

Multi-Tech Systems, which reported sales of $81 million for 1992, was founded in 1970 to manufacture data communications equipment and systems for the global market of networking product users. The Minnesota-based company is well-known for its MultiModem line of dial-up communications products. Multi-Tech's family of products include a complete line of data/fax modems, MultiMux statistical multiplexers, DSUs, 3270/3780/5250 emulation systems, X.25 PADS/switches, UNIX serial interfaces, communications software, LAN/WAN connectivity products, and most recently, the MultiModemPCS, a voice/data/fax personal communications system. These products are sold in over 70 countries through a worldwide network of distributors, manufacturer's reps, systems integrators, value-added resellers (VARs) and retailers. Multi-Tech Systems Inc. can be contacted at its headquarters: 2205 Woodale Drive, Mounds View, Minnesota 55112. Voice (612) 785-3500 or (800) 328-9717, FAX (612) 785-9874, International FAX (612) 331-3180, Telex 4998372MLTTC.


SYBASE SQL Server for Swedish Telecom Group
SYBASE SQL Server and Open Client/Server Interfaces provide enterprise-wide solution that integrates open systems with legacy applications

Emeryville, CA, April 26, 1993 -- Sybase, Inc. today announced that its SYBASE SQL Server and SYBASE Open Client/Server Interfaces products have been chosen by the Swedish Telecom Group as the standard relational database management system (RDBMS) products for the utility's migration to an open, client/server information systems architecture. Another key software element of the Swedish Telecom strategy is UniAccess from Applied Information Sciences (AIS), an implementation of the SYBASE Open Server Interfaces connectivity product for accessing legacy data and applications on UNISYS mainframes.

The Swedish Telecom Group is a $5 billion company and Sweden's primary supplier of telecommunications products and services. The new open systems strategy is being implemented by Swedish Telecom Data Services, the data processing services arm of the Swedish Telecom Group, and is expected to exceed $100 million total in project costs through 1996.

The SYBASE SQL Server product is a leading client/server-based RDBMS for on-line, enterprise-wide applications. The SYBASE Open Client/Server Interfaces are open application programming interfaces (APIs) that offer customers unique features for integrating non-SYBASE data, applications, and application services.

"We recognized that replacing our 10- to 15-year-old systems and moving to an open, client/server architecture was critical to the long-term success of our organization," said Mikael von Otter, director of beta services at Swedish Telecom. "But for now, we still need to be able to rely on the high availability and user capacity of our mainframes. Only Sybase and AIS were able to provide that vital combination of client/server architecture and technologies for integrating with our legacy applications, to help us meet both objectives."

"Telecommunications is a very important market for Sybase, because we can provide the interoperability and open architecture for the information-intensive, mission-critical environments telecommunications companies operate in. It's the reason why so many companies are standardizing on SYBASE," said Stewart Schuster, vice president of marketing at Sybase. "For companies like Swedish Telecom, moving to open systems is not viable unless they can continue to leverage their vast investments in mission-critical mainframe applications. Their selection of Sybase and AIS products is a strong endorsement of our strategy to provide the technologies for client/server applications that span the enterprise."

The Migration Process

Swedish Telecom holds a vast majority of the telecommunications market in Sweden, with more than 45,000 employees and six million subscribers. Early in 1992, the company began its migration from a mainframe-based information systems infrastructure to one based on open systems. Swedish Telecom Data Services sought to implement an IS architecture that would allow it to capitalize on existing information assets, but could be dynamically scaled to fit varying needs for capacity and flexibility. The software contract was awarded to EMT AB, a distributor based in Stockholm, Sweden, for a solution based on SYBASE SQL Server and SYBASE Open Client/Server Interfaces products as well as AIS's UniAccess.

In a phased migration over the next several years, Swedish Telecom plans to integrate IBM- and UNISYS-based mainframe applications into a client/server environment configured with Hewlett-Packard servers and workstations running the SYBASE SQL Server product. The utility has contracted with Hewlett-Packard's Professional Services Organization to provide systems integration and consulting services for the project.

The combination of SQL Server, Open Client/Server Interfaces, and UniAccess products will allow client applications and tools running on PCs, Macintoshes, Digital VAX systems or UNIX systems to access servers located throughout Swedish Telecom, and interoperate with the company's mainframe-based legacy applications. In effect, UniAccess will turn Swedish Telecom's six UNISYS mainframes into powerful, open servers. In this way, the mainframes will be integrated into the open systems architecture, but will still provide the mission-critical hardware performance that Swedish Telecom relies on: namely, near-100% availability and support for up to 10,000 concurrent users with subsecond response times.

SYBASE SQL Server

SYBASE SQL Server is a high-performance relational database server based on an advanced multi-threaded database operating system architecture. The SYBASE SQL Server product features scalable high performance, server-enforced integrity, high application availability, and on-line distributed RDBMS capabilities. It is designed to deliver scalable high performance on the most cost-effective hardware, maintaining high transaction and query throughput while supporting large numbers of users. The company is currently shipping SYBASE SQL Server, Release 4.9.

SYBASE Open Client/Server Interfaces

The SYBASE Open/Client Server Interface products provide a distributed architecture for interoperability between heterogeneous tools, applications, data sources, and network services. These SYBASE products support open integration and are the first to provide access to any data source, as well as the ability to invoke heterogeneous applications and services through a common application programming interface.

The SYBASE Open Server Interface is the only server API that enables integration of data sources, server applications, and application services. SYBASE Open Client is a client API used to enable third party products or 3GL programs to access the SQL Server and Open Server applications.

UniAccess

The UniAccess product suite is a licensed implementation of the SYBASE Client/Server architecture developed by AIS under a technology transfer agreement with Sybase. Just like the SYBASE Open Server implementation for IBM mainframes, the UniAccess product suite integrates Unisys mainframes with the Sybase Client/Server architecture.

Applied Information Sciences, Inc.

Founded in 1982, AIS is a technical services and products company specializing in client/server architecture and open systems migration. AIS markets UniAccess directly, through distributors overseas and through co-marketing relationships with many third parties. AIS offers a full range of technical services to assist customers in modernizing or implementing enterprise-wide, distributed transaction processing architectures. The company is privately-held, and is headquartered in Landover, MD.

Sybase, Inc.

Sybase, Inc. (NASDAQ: SYBS) develops and markets a leading family of client/server-based software products and services for on-line, enterprise-wide applications. Sybase's integrated family of software includes servers, tools, connectivity, and administration/control products that provide complete desktop to mainframe solutions. Headquartered in Emeryville, CA, Sybase markets its products worldwide through its direct sales force, telesales, distributors, OEMs, VARs, and Systems Integrators.

Sybase Inc, 6475 Christie Ave, Emeryville, CA 04608

510-596-3500;  Fax: 510-658-9441


Mailing Lists & Other Shareware Goodies
Shareware Programs by Jim Hood

POB 1506, Mercer Island, WA, 98040

(206) 236-0470;   CIS: 72020,2176

SHAREWARE MARKETING $YSTEM

A detailed two part resource for shareware authors who need creative marketing ideas and a RATED mailing list of over 4,000 major shareware distributors, large computer clubs, key magazine editors, recommended BBS systems and more! Software programmers and authors can use the detailed mailing list to mail software in an effective, highly successful manner! Also contains detailed newsletter and marketing guide which has been prepared by an established shareware author and contains dozens of creative tips, tricks and traps every author should review. The database file is rated so you can mall shareware to key vendors ranked A B or C. The database file is supplied in dBase III (DBF) file format. Program does NOT require color or special graphics. Requires database program such as PC-File dBase or any database which can import dBase III format (DBF) files. Hard drive suggested. Single issue registration available as well as subscriptions -  quarterly issues per year.

PC-LEARN

A popular computer training system for beginners which includes chapters on buying and using a computer, an entertaining history of computers, DOS lessons, hard disk drives, tech tips how to use shareware tutorial and virus protection. It also includes information on word processing a suggested reading list, software selection, computer clubs, batch files, spreadsheets, databases, and even a glossary! PC-LEARN features high speed color or monochrome menus, tutorial printing, information searching capabilities and lore! Selected a recommended beginner s choice by 21 computer clubs and has been featured in two national computer magazines.

SSP MAILING LIST OF SOFTWARE CUSTOMERS: VOLUME ONE

Promote your computer or software related product directly to 1,000+ mailing addresses of actual software users! This data list includes small businesses, home offices, computer hobbyists, private individuals, retirees, educators, and government users of software and computer hardware! These customers eagerly want your software or computer related catalog, software demo, brochure or advertising literature. Addresses of these customers derived from ACTUAL software product test mailings and shareware package registrations. Useful for computer equipment retailers, software developers, shareware authors, computer magazine publishers, shareware disk vendors and others seeking to market a computer or software related product. Mailing list supplied in dBase III format.

Other formats available from product author. Registration ($35) or annual subscription (4 issues per year/$110) brings updated mailing list PLUS many additional addresses on the Volume Two bonus disk! Product also includes a short, easy to read electronic booklet of instructions about using this resource.

PROFESSOR P.C. LAPTOP

A comprehensive tutorial system which provides laptop and notebook computer owners (or those interested in buying a laptop or notebook) hundreds of powerful tips, tricks and reference articles. Tutorials include: travelling with laptops and notebooks, clever equipment purchasing strategies, battery care and maintenance, telephone and manufacturer support numbers, software selection, laptop DOS lessons, history of computers, hard drive secrets, laptop batch files laptop modem use, little-known CompuServe resources for laptop owners, custom reading list, computer virus protection methods and more. An amazing collection of laptop and notebook computer reference material! Contains high speed search system, capability to turn sound on/off, tutorial printing, help screens and color or monochrome light bar menus.

BACKACHE RELIEF NOW!

With over 7 million backache sufferers and 2 million added each year, this is a thorough and medically conservative tutorial written for the average layman. Topics include: spinal anatomy, backaches and computer operators, chronic backache, arthritis, chiropractic manipulation, the 'slipped' disc, aging and back pain, tumors, infectious diseases, posture and backaches, medications, new medical technology, exercises the orthopedic examination, surgery, pregnancy and backache, little-known therapies, the anthropology of backaches and more! Colorful popdown menus, help screens and high speed search features guide users through a variety of tutorials which can be printed or read on screen.

SSP DIRECTORY OF COMPUTER CLUBS

Every computer owner, from novice to advanced, can use this comprehensive directory of over 1,000 computer clubs and users groups to locate and benefit from the vast offerings which computer clubs and users groups offer. Edited by a former computer club coordinator, the SSP Directory of Computer Clubs is a comprehensive listing of major computer clubs and users groups which focus on the MSDOS and PCDOS family of personal computers. Includes a mailing list of computer clubs plus brief tutorial on the support services, newsletters, monthly meeting agenda and special interest groups of computer clubs. The mailing list and contact directory is provided in both plain-text ASCII which you can read and revise with your word processing software and also in dBase format so you can generate mailing labels or use your database program to effectively search and sort this large resource list. Registration ($25) provides the latest quarterly update disk plus a special custom bonus disk which enhances the functionality of this program. Program runs on ALL systems and does NOT require color or special graphics.

The SHAREWARE USER'S TUTORIAL

A detailed presentation on how to use and enjoy shareware! Topics include: eight easy steps to using shareware FAST, determining what is on a disk, how to run a program, how to unpack and unarchive, commonly asked questions, a short DOS review course, shortcuts, using filenames and extensions, locating documentation on disk. Even includes a short pop quiz to test your 'shareware survival skills!' Chapter titles of this excellent tutorial are as follows: What is shareware, public domain, freeware and commercial software? Eight easy steps to using shareware FAST! Minimum DOS commands for using shareware. Copying the master disk. The directory listing of a shareware disk. File names and extensions - the keys to the kingdom. A turbocharged shortcut! Finding, reading and understanding documentation within a file. Unpacking and installing, including ARCS, ZIPS, LZH and more! Configuring the program if necessary. Running the program. Feedback: either register or send your regrets! Co mon questions and answers. Recommended reading list for shareware users and authors. Shareware vendors should consider adding this to their catalog as a reprint or at least sending this file with every order to customers!


Integraph Moves to Industry Sales
INTERGRAPH MOVES TO INDUSTRY SALES

U.S. Sales Force Reorganized In Line With European Model

April 15, 1993 -- Intergraph reorganized its U.S. sales force along industry lines. using a model that's been in place in its European operations for three years.

The company will offer "industry solutions" to customers in eight target industries --government, utilities, transportation, process, building, manufacturing/vehicles, electronics and publishing -- where business models and practices get the most from Intergraph's technical hardware and software.

An industry solution is a complete. integrated set of products -- hardware, software, maintenance and value-added services. Services include business process construction, systems integration, project engineering, networking, training and application consulting and customization.

Greater Customer Satisfaction, Penetration

Richard Salva, vice president of sales for the Americas, says this new industry focus should . . . "help Intergraph build a solid understanding of customers' businesses, develop a clear strategy for each industry, create products that solve specific industry problems and offer a consistent view that ties all product development groups more closely together."

His expectation is that customer satisfaction and account penetration will grow right along with Intergraph's industry expertise.

"We think this is a natural outgrowth of the way we've been selling all along." says Salva. "Our sales people have developed a certain amount of industry knowledge in the normal course of doing their jobs," he adds. "Don't forget -- we offer some highly complex, specialized applications. They don't lend themselves to an off-the-shelf sales style."

ALLIANCE AND ACQUISITION ACTIVITY GROWS

Spans Consulting, Utility, EDA Fields

Strategic alliances and acquisitions are strengthening Intergraph's position in the services, utility and electronic design automation (EDA) markets.

A new partnership plan teams Intergraph with four leading utilities industry product and services companies -- Andersen Consulting, ABB Power T&D Company, PlanGraphics and Synercom Technology, Inc. The companies will present each others' products as the preferred solution to a customer's needs in consulting, technology, data conversion, training and outsourcing.

Intergraph's InterLINK EDA third-party partnership program signed up seven new members, bringing the total number of participants to 38. InterLINK gives members technical consulting, plus hardware and software to port and integrate third-party applications to the Intergraph environment.

A strategic partnership agreement with Frame Technology, Corporation calls for Intergraph to market and support Frame Technology's electronic publishing solution and on-line viewing product.

The acquisition of Bestinfo. Inc.. a leading producer of advertising technology for the retail/catalog markets, is expected to boost Intergraph's electronic publishing and information management products.

FIRST QUARTER AT A GLANCE

Financials . . . Price reductions for older products and lower sales volumes produced thinner margins, resulting in an operating loss of $12.4 million for the first quarter. Revenues were up two percent to $282 million, while income posted a net loss of 16 cents a share compared with net income of six cents per share a year earlier.

Products . . . New family of C400 workstations and servers with better price performance, two operating systems -- UNIX and Microsoft NT -- and new display technology . . . MGE/SX, the MGE nucleus product, unbundled into three individual products to be sold separately . . . MGE Kriging Modeler provides geostatistical software that estimates values in an entire three-dimensional block from sample data taken in only parts of the block . . . I/EMS and I/Design mechanical design products split into separate, standalone modules for purchase as needed . . . ANA Tech Eagle scanners offers a new Windows NT compatible interface.

Contracts . . . U.S. Navy sent all original NAVFAC bidders back to the drawing board with another call for best and final offers . . . 1,200 Intergraph workstations valued at $65 million delivered to the U.S. Navy, Air Force, Army and other Defense Department agencies as part of the NAVSEA CAD-2 procurement . . . Maclean Hunter Ltd. of Canada picked Intergraph's data publishing and color prepress systems to automate production of its Canadian Advertising Rates & Data publication. The contract is worth more than $1 million.

Quality . . . Intergraph won registration to ISO-9002 quality system standard, model for quality assurance in production and installation operations issued by the International Standards Organization in Geneva.

Management Changes . . . Eliott James resigned as president, citing a wish to pursue other business opportunities. No successor has been named.

Upcoming Events . . . Annual Intergraph Graphics Users Group (IGUG) meeting May 3-6 in Huntsville . . . Intergraph will demonstrate selected AEC, GIS, MicroStation and ModelView applications at Windows World trade show, May 24-27 in Atlanta.

For more information. please call Renate Banks at (205) 730-8877

Intergraph, Huntsville, AL 35894-0014

205-730-8877;  fax: 205-730-8300