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

Prepared & Distributed by:  Baker Enterprises

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

SOFTWARE:	HARDWARE:

Business & Productivity  	PC Systems

Professional/Engineering  	Expansion Products

Personal & Educational  	Peripherals

Games & Entertainment  	Macintosh Specific

System Software & Utilities  	Miscellaneous Hardware

Macintosh Specific

Miscellaneous Software  	GENERAL INTEREST:

Books & Publications

Miscellaneous News

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About Press Releases
Full Text Press Releases...

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

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

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

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Free Distribution
FREE News Distribution...

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


PC Industry Reference Database
PC Industry Reference Database...

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

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

EMS Professional Software

4505 Buckhurst Cr.	(301) 924-3594   Voice

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


Business & Productivity Software
Business & Productivity Software News:

LINK! Advantage Links to Over 75 Pages

FAST! Advantage Automated Workpaper Swr

Arcadia Workplace Companion OS/2 PIM

CompressMate Spreadsheet Compression Utility

TommySoftware CAD/DRAW for Windows V1.10b

OmniPage Direct AnyFont OCR Swr for Logitech

Aldus PageMaker Garners 3 Product Awards

PC-Translator for Dutch & Norwegian to English

1st Award for Foreign Language Translation Swr

MergeMaster v2.0 for DOS & Windows Databases

HyperBole Debuts 3D Interactive Movie Engine

Collins On-Line V2.20 Bilingual Dictionaries

EnVision Publisher Sweeps 3 Shareware Awards

Environmental Regulation Analysis Tracking Swr

Bitstream Adds 23 New Typeface Lib Designs

ProActive Support Advantage for Help Desks

Warner Bros. Sound Effects Library on CD-ROM

Foundation Builds Client/Server Customer System

MEI Salons Choose MicroBiz Hair & Nail Salon

Imagine/CUA Report & Query Tool

Prentice Hall Prof Swr Changes for Growth

The Shareware Vendor's Companion

AdaptAccounts 4.0 Integrated Accounting

Fieldworks Cleanup & Purge Paradox Add-Ins

WestLake Imager 2.0 for Paradox & dBASE

Nimbus Report Writer 2.0 for Paradox 4.0

d'Art Parados for Win. Documenter & Decompiler

CONVERT4 Available for Paradox 4.0

Parastat 2.0 Available for Paradox 4.0

100,000 FREE Copies of Firts Impulse V1.0

Sybase Expands Open Solutions Program

Asymetrix COMPEL Shines in Swr Digest Report


Professional/Engineering Software
Professional/Engineering Software News:

Lab.dbf VI Library for LabVIEW Data Access

LabVIEW Application Notes Cover FFT & More

Ohio State to use MF/GAS in Molding Research

LabVIEW Brochure for Software Selection

Free Software Explains Analysis Techniques

DSO Manager Controls Leader Instruments

LabVIEW Picture Control Toolkit

LabVIEW Test Executive Toolkit


Personal & Educational Software
Personal & Educational Software News:

Revell-Monogram European Racers with CD-ROM

Windows Music Sculptor MIDI Sequencer

Online Computer Adds Broderbund CDROM Titles

Online Computer & Encyclopedia Britannica

Treasure Hunt Math Targets Nintendo Generation

GIC-Software Interactive Word Games

Hamilton MarketWatch 2.0 Investment Analysis

The NFL Tracker, V3.4

All New Version of FAMILY REUNION Shipping

TREE EASY v1.0 Genealogy Swr for Beginners

Computer Jockey's Customized Workout

Home Medical Advisor V3.0 Released July 1993

Your Medical Records


Games & Entertainment Software
Games & Entertainment Software News:

Accolade Signs Charles Barkley of NBA

Bubsy Bobcat Inks Deal w/Imagination Factory

SSI Clash of Steel War Simulation Game

Genesis Jack Nicklaus Power Challenge Golf

RAW Entertainment Goes To Direct Sales

CHESSOP Chess Openings Database & Learning Aid


System Software & Utilities
System Software & Utilities News:

WinZip 4.1 Makes Quick Work of ZIP Work

Low Cost Network Fax Software for Windows

WinPak Windows Screen Saver Package

odb++ Database Class Library for Windows

Unitools v1.0 UNIX tools for DOS

Stream Tech. Document Browswr for Windows

NetMinder Windows Internet Adr Book/Database

CE Software Ships Cross-Platform QuickMail MHS

Matinee Windows Full-Motion-Video Screen Saver

NoteWare V2.0 DOS Notepad Utility

PocketD Plus v3.0 Command-Line File Manager

Q387 V3.5 Math Accelerator/Emulator

Power PEN PAL Apps to Run On NEC VersaPad

PenRight! Swr Offered on NEC VersaPad

Sheng Labs BestPAL Compiler for Paradox 4.0

WindowsMAKER Professional 5.0 Prototyper

Visual SQL C Code generator for Client/Servers

AccSys for Paradox Supports Paradox 4.0

Quick DOS v1.0 Paradox Documentation Program

EMS Ships New CD-ROM Libs of Borland Dev Tools

Style Guide for Paradox 4.0 Applic Environment

Paradox 4.0 Access to Mainframe Data

ObjectPAL Application Development Seminars

Softbite Int'l Intros Softbite Labs

Cognitronix Code Manager v2.1 for Windows

Novell & NetSoft Partner on NS/Router Support

New MKS LEX & YACC 3.2 Supports WinNT/DOS/OS2

NetSoft Unveils Elite/400 Emulators V3.0

Pencom Swr Device Driver Development for WinNT

NetSoft NS/Router 3rd Generation Tech

Multitasking GPIB Driver Swr for OS/2 2.0

New Features in JORF Version 2.1

Microsoft Windows NT & Advanced Server to Mfg

MDBS IV Novell Netware Loadable Module

Bear Rock Bar Code Fonts for Windows & OS/2

Microsoft Scenes Windows Screen Savers


Macintosh Specific Software
Macintosh Specific Software News:

LabVIEW Video VI Image Capture & Analysis Lib

Video VI LabVIEW Video Capture/Dsply/Analysis

Info-Mac CD-ROM II Public Domain & Shareware

Spider Island Updates TeleFinder BBS Swr

Word Connection Word Search Game for Macintosh

Stalker Upgrades PortShare Productss for Mac

CoSA Effects Pack Vol 1 Special Effects Pckg

Bit Jugglers - UnderWare Mac Screen Saver


Miscellaneous Software
Miscellaneous Software News:

PAIS International Database at Lower Price

July 1993 Directory of US Daily Newspapers

New Walnut Creek Hobbes OS/2 CD-ROM Avail

SoftFind Specialty Software Locator


System Hardware
System Hardware News:

CIC HandWriter Recognition Sys w/NEC VersaPad

NEC Intros VersaPad Pen Tablet System

MicroBiz Announces POS Computer System


Expansion Hardware
Expansion Hardware News:

Spectrum Signal TMS320C31 Quad Processing Board

Spectrum Media-Link Accelerated Video Board

New C50 Octal Processor Systems from Spectrum

BSPs For SPOX Integration of Spectrum DSP Brds

Forex 32-bit/50MHz VESA SCSI Host Adapter

Colorado Spectrum Notebook Gameport

STB Intros 24-bit PCI Graphics Accelerator

Proxim & PI Systems Wireless Mobile Computing

ProComp BusMastering SCSI Controller

Relay Control Card D-Sub Filtering Options

Eastern Systems Ships New SVGA Evaluator

IEEE 488 Kits for HP Workstations


Peripheral Hardware
Peripheral Hardware News:

Status of Global V.Fast Modem Standard

Racal-Datacom Seminars Offered

New 3 Year Warranty on Mistubishi Monitors

ETC 15 Inch Monitor with Precise Color Control

Logitech ScanMan EasyTouch Hand-Held Scanner

SyDOS Intros The Executive CD

Digital Vision Computer-to-TV Scan Converter

Belkin Launches 3+3 Ethernet Print Server

USR $200 Savings on 28.8Kbps V.FAST Tech

Mitsubishi Intros 3rd Generation Monitors

SyDOS MARLIN 105e 3.5" 105MB Cartridge Drive

Excellink JetCard Series for LaserJet Sharing

Excellink SPort LaserJet 4Si Serial Interface


Macintosh Specific Hardware
Macintosh Specific Hardware News:

Shiva Upgrades FastPath 5

Casa Blanca Works Brackets/Cables for New Macs

Apple Expands Education Product Line

Apple USA Reduces Prices

Voice Processing Tech for Supra Modems


Miscellaneous Hardware
Miscellaneous Hardware News:

Racal-Datacom in Federal Procurement Contract

NSSI Intros NET-UPS, Network-Ready UPS

Artisoft Shipping T-Runner Concentrators


Books & Publications
Books & Publications:

X Window System Administrator's Guide w/CD-ROM

New LabVIEW Technical Newsletter

Houghton Mifflin Channel R.E.A.D. Videodiscs

MST to Distribute ViaGrafix Training Videos

Ventana Windows Shareware 500 Book in Reprint

XyWrite 4 Macros, Customize Word Proc. Envir.

ObjectVision Programming for Windows

Microsoft Macro Assembler 6.1 Programming

Generic Programming for Borland C++

Batch Files and Beyond, Your Path to PC Power

Netware: The Macintosh Connection

Learning the Korn Shell

Object-Oriented Software Engineering

Microsoft Visual Basic Workshop, Windows Ed.

Microsoft Mail for Windows Step by Step

Running Microsoft FoxPro for Windows

Ventana's Looking Good in Print, 3rd Edition

Running Visual Basic for Windows, 2nd Ed.

Microsoft @in32 Programmer's References

Running Microsoft FoxPro for MS-DOS

Mac Internet Tour Guide

Electronic NewsStand Launched on Internet

NetNews on CD's - Usenet News on CD-ROM

!%@::A Directory of E-Mail Addressing

MS-DOS 5/6 Command Summary


Miscellaneous News
Miscellaneous News:

Apple Expands Education Product Line

Artisoft Nationwide Reseller Training Centers

US Robotics Moves Toward ISO 9000 Standard

New Technology Information Service via Email

Windows NT Porting to Sun SPARC Workstations

European Swr Sales Reach $484 Million Q1-1993

Racal-Datacom Digital Networking Seminars

ABCD A+ Service Technician Certification Pgm

Industry Commitment to A+ Certification Pgm

First-Ever Photoshop Conference, Jan 24-26

Apple to Restructure Over Next 12 Months

Channel R.E.A.D. LaserDisc System Bundle

SPA Demonstrates Effectiveness of Educ Tech

SPA Releases Education Software Mgmt Guide

RAacal-Datacom Expands VAR Program

Tutorial Sessions Planned at Networking Shows

Expanded Shared Logic Paradox Training

SafeSaxx Protective Coverings for Notebooks

Miscellaneous July News Tidbits

PC EXPO Breaks Exhibitor/Attendance Records

Artisoft Expands Technical Support Service


Spectrum Signal TMS320C31 Quad Processing Board
Linked Boards Can Provide 640 MFLOPS of Processing Power

SPECTRUM SIGNAL'S NEW TMS320C31 QUAD PROCESSOR BOARD COMBINES COST EFFECTIVE C31 FLOATING POINT DSP, SPECTRUM'S MEDIA-LINK, IN HIGH-PERFORMANCE ARRAY PROCESSOR

BURNABY, British Columbia, June 21, 1993-- Spectrum Signal Processing today introduced the most cost-effective system available for sophisticated PC-based array processing applications, a new Quad Processor board built around Texas' Instruments 40MHz TMS320C31 DSP.

The new C31 Quad Processor, designed for image processing, radar, sonar, multi channel communication, and other high performance applications, includes Spectrum's unique MEDIA-LINK bus, which provides high-speed, 40Mbyte/second communications between processors - without bottlenecks. Each board has 160 MFLOPS of DSP processing power, and developers can easily construct cost-effective systems in the GigaFLOP range by linking multiple C31 Quad Processors.

"The Quad Processor board represents the latest in our expanding MEDIA-LINK family of high-performance, cost effective PC-based products for the industrial market," said Spectrum President and Chief Executive Officer Barry Jinks. ' The combination of MEDIA-LINK and the C31s provide an unprecedented level of array processing power at a cost of less than $40/MFLOP, ideal for volume array processing applications such as medical imaging and machine vision."

C31, MEDIA-LINK Combine to Offer Cost-Effective Capabilities

The MEDIA-LINK interface, which Spectrum developed last year using ASIC technology and has begun incorporating into it's products, affords designers "processor independence" by eliminating interprocessor overhead and guaranteeing reliable communications in applications that demand them. Any C31 on the MEDIA-LINK network is able to directly access the resources of any other processor on the MEDIA-LINK network.

The TMS320C31 is a streamlined, cost-reduced version of TI's TMS320C30. It requires less power, with complete code compatibility. Bringing the C31 and MEDIA-LINK together in the C31 Quad Processor offers designers a complete range of cost-effective options without sacrificing performance. The data transfer rate between the processors is 40 Mbytes/second, and all network activities are managed through a sophisticated high level language. The Quad Processor also includes Spectrum's DSP-LINK interface for peripheral card input/output, and 32 Kwords or 1 wait-state dual-port static RAM to provide a high-speed interface to the ISA bus. Several SRAM options are available. Other products that connect to the C31 Quad include the DSP/PC Single Board Computer, MLVB, and all of the popular DSP-LINK peripherals.

To help designers develop algorithms for their applications quickly and efficiently, Spectrum is providing a complete set of sophisticated software tools. These include on-board test controllers; C source-level debuggers, assembler, linker, C compiler; drivers and library routines; and highlevel multiprocessing development systems. No additional hardware is required to debug the C31 Quad Processor.

The C31 Quad board is available now from Spectrum at US $4,995 each. Significant volume discounts are available for OEMs.

Spectrum Signal Processing is the leading developer of system and processor boards, software tools, hardware systems and other digital signal processing products for the PC, VME and SBus environments. These systems support digital signal processors from all major DSP vendors. Spectrum's unique modular DSP hardware allows users to interface off-the-shelf peripheral I/O boards with the processor of their choice. Spectrum Signal Processing Inc. is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol SSPIF, and on the Vancouver Stock Exchange under the symbol SSY.

Spectrum Signal Processing Inc

8525 Baxter Place, 100 Production Court, Burnaby, BC V5A 4V7 CANADA

604-421-5422;  fax: 604-421-1764


Racal-Datacom in Federal Procurement Contract
RACAL-DATACOM EQUIPMENT, SERVICES SPECIFIED IN FEDERAL PROCUREMENT CONTRACT

June 22, 1993 -- SUNRISE, FL. -- Racal-Datacom has been selected as the Wide Area Network Communications subcontractor to PRC Inc. of McLean, Virginia in the federal government's Super-Minicomputer procurement contract.

The Super-Minicomputer contract is the open ended procurement vehicle for the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Defense Logistics Agency, and other Department of Defense and civilian agencies of the federal government. The contract allows federal government agencies to acquire mini-computer and client server systems and data communications equipment for a variety of operations, including office automation, data base management systems and engineering applications. PRC believes this contract will be the basis for much of the computer modernization efforts within the U.S. Government.

Racal-Datacom products available to U.S. government agencies worldwide under this contract include Excalibur Digital Access Products, Excalibur 19.2 kilobits per second modems, RMD 3222 (V.32bis 14.4 Kbps standalone) and RMD 3232 (V.32 9.6 Kbps PC card) dial modems, Series 300 network processors and Ethernet LAN terminal servers. All are managed by the Communications Management Series (CMS) 400 component of Racal Management System.

"Participation in this contract gives Racal-Datacom the right to provide the data communications equipment and services needed by federal government agencies, because the acquisition process, terms and conditions of the sale have been predetermined by the long-range contract," said Dan Latham, Racal-Datacom senior vice president of sales. "This contract enables government agencies to acquire state-of-the-art technology using UNIX computing platforms and wide area and local area networking."

"The U. S. Government, especially the Department of Defense, is downsizing," said Michael Berman, PRC Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "Consequently, the government realizes that thriving in a downsizing environment is accomplished by better employing technology that complements personnel. In fact, the government has to do a better job of providing services with less available budget. This Super Mini contract offers the type of products and services that will enable the government to do just that."

The Super-Minicomputer contract is expected to be one of the largest IDIQ (indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity) procurements ever awarded by the U.S. Department of Defense, according to Joe Noel, director of networking research at Dataquest, of San Jose, California.

The contract specifies five years for the procurement of hardware and software, plus an additional four years for maintenance and support services.

PRC expects almost 130,000 systems to be installed over the life of the contract, ranging in size from five- to 25-user networked systems. The pilot demonstration of the office automation operation was completed in March 1993 and government agencies can begin using the contract now.

Other subcontractors with Racal-Datacom are mini-computer manufacturer Hewlett-Packard, primary software vendors Oracle Corporation and Uniplex, and workstations from Everex. The minicomputers will run HP-UX and the Everex systems will run The Santa Cruz Operation Inc.'s Xenix UNIX board operating system.

PRC, headquartered in McLean, Virginia, provides information systems and services to government and commercial clients worldwide. With 1992 revenues of $734 million, PRC employs 7,300 persons working in more than 200 offices.

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 is represented in more than 80 nations. It offers solutions for the implementation, integration, management and support of enterprise networks from the desk top through local area and wide area networks. Racal-Datacom offers the broadest range of LAN/WAN products in the industry, all managed by a single network management system and all supported by a full range of network services.

Rascal-Datacom Inc

1601 North Harrison Parkway, Sunrise, FL 33323-2899

PO Box 40744, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33340-7044

305-846-1601;  fax: 305-846-3935

--end----end----end----end----end----end----end----end----end--


X Window System Administrator's Guide w/CD-ROM
O'REILLY & ASSOCIATES RELEASES X WINDOW SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR'S GUIDE WITH CD-ROM

SEBASTOPOL, CA -- July 5, 1993 -- O'Reilly & Associates announces the publication of THE X WINDOW SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR'S GUIDE with CD-ROM, the first and only book/CD package devoted to the issues of system administration for X and X-based networks. IT is Volume 8 in O'Reilly's renowned X Window System series.

According to publisher Tim O'Reilly, THE X WINDOW SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR'S GUIDE fills a unique need. "By bundling the software with the documentation, the reader gets everything they need in one convenient package. CD-ROMs provide a durable, cost-effective distribution medium that is becoming the standard way to distribute operating systems and third party software."

The X CD-ROM contains over 600 megabytes of X11 related software. It includes complete MIT X11R5 "core" and "contrib" source code with fixes 1-21 applied to core and complete MIT X11R4 "core" and "contrib" source code. It has precompiled binaries of MIT X11R5 core software for Sun4, Sun3, DECstation, and IBM RS/6000 platforms. Other features of the X CD-ROM include:

* "Smart" installation software that allows custom installation of supplied binaries and a complete "snapshot" of the example code for the O'Reilly X Window System Series books and The X Resource journal;

* Source code and precompiled binaries of several clients discussed in THE X WINDOW SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR'S GUIDE. These include the xtici and xcoloredit color editors and the patch program for supplying software fixes;

* Publisher Fiel System "Rock Ridge" software from Young Minds to permit Sun, DEC and IBM platforms to mount the CD-ROM using the Rock Ridge extensions. These extensions make the CD-ROM look like a UNIX file system;

* Several utility programs that permit the source code to be recompiled and updated whenever new patches are made available, under both the ISO 9660 and Rock Ridge formats.

Written by Linda Mui and Eric Pearce, Volume 8 provides authoritative support that clarifies the issues raised by X, including the subtle changes in the standard UNIX way of doing things and the blurriness caused by X crossing boundaries between different platforms. Under X, users can run applications across the network, on systems with different servers than the applications were designed for originally. Many of these issues are poorly understood and the technology for dealing with them is in rapid flux.

THE X WINDOW SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR'S GUIDE helps overcome these difficult or poorly understood issues by presenting:

* An overview of X that focuses on issues that affect the system administrator's job, be they UNIX system administrators or anyone faced with the job of administrating X (including those running X on stand-alone workstations).

* Information on obtaining, compiling, and installing X software, including a discussion of the trade-offs between vendor supplied and the free MIT versions of X;

* How to use PC and Mac X servers to maximize reuse of existing hardware and convert outdated hardware into X termainls;

* How to set up xdm, the X display manager, which takes the place of the login program under X and can be used to create a customized turnkey X session for each user;

* Issues involved in making X more secure. X's security features aren't strong, but an understanding of what features are available can be very important, since X makes it possible for users to intrude on each other in new and sometimes unexpected ways;

* How fonts are used by X, including a description of the font server;

* How to obtain and install additional public domain software and patches for X;

* Covers features new in R5, including the font server and Xcms.

O'Reilly & Associates is recognized worldwide for its definitive books on the X Window System, UNIX, the Internet, and Distributed Computing Environment. Working closely with developers of new technologies, O'Reilly's editors are "computer people" who use the software they write about. The company's planning and review cycles link together authors, computer vendors, and technical experts throughout the industry in a creative collaboration that mirrors the strengths of the "open systems" philosophy itself.

THE X WINDOW SYSTEM ADMINISTRATOR'S GUIDE

By Linda Mui and Eric Pearce

372 Pages

ISBN 0-937175-052-X with CD-ROM (ISBN 0-937175-83-8 without CD-ROM)

Price: $59.95 with CD-ROM ($29.95 without CD-ROM)

Toll-free order number: 800-998-9938

O'Reilly & Associates Inc

103 Morris St, Suite A, Sebastopol, CA 95472

707-829-0515;  fax: 707-829-0104


Status of Global V.Fast Modem Standard
RACAL-DATACOM DISCUSSES STATUS OF GLOBAL V.FAST MODEM STANDARD

June 22, 1993 -- SUNRISE, FL. -- This is an interview with Veda Krishnan, Senior Fellow, Racal-Datacom engineering, to update news media and interested individuals about the current status of the "V.fast" standard for high speed modems. She represents Racal in TIA TR 30.1, the American committee of approximately 35 persons representing about 25 companies developing positions on core modem data pump issues for ITU-TSS Study Group 14.

Formerly known as CCITT (Consultative Committee International for Telegraphy and Telephony), ITU-TSS (International Telecommunications Union - Telecommunications Standards Sector) is the Geneva-based advisory committee established by the United Nations to recommend worldwide transmission standards. ITU-TTS Study Group 14 consists of about 50-60 scientific and industrial organizations, including manufacturers, and user groups such as national telephone administrations. Study Group 14 is developing the "V.fast" Recommendation for two-wire duplex modems with data rates beyond 14.4 kilobits per second (Kbps).

QUESTION: How soon can we expect to see a formal "V.fast" standard adopted by ITU-TSS?

KRISHNAN: We expect the standard to be adopted in 1994. "V.fast" is a nickname that emphasizes the goal of this standard, specifying a modem that will achieve the maximum data rate that the channel can support. Once ITU-TTS adopts the standard, it will be assigned a V series number.

QUESTION: How fast is "V.fast"?

KRISHNAN: The V.fast modem will accommodate data signalling rates from 2,400 to 28,800 bits per second in 2,400 bps increments. The modem is intended for connection to general switched telephone networks and on point-to-point two-wire leased telephone-type circuits. It will provide duplex operation using echo cancellation techniques and half-duplex operation.

QUESTION: How is the data rate maximized?

KRISHNAN: Higher data rate is achieved by taking advantage of the fact that the network is rapidly becoming digital and consequently offers wider bandwidth for signalling than the previous analog network. V.fast utilizes this new wider bandwidth to achieve faster data transmission, up to 28.8 Kbps.

QUESTION: How is performance improved?

KRISHNAN: Many new performance enhancing algorithms will be included in this standard compared to the V.32bis standard. A better trellis coder and a block shaper are under consideration to increase immunization to gaussian noise. There will be line dependent algorithms such as adaptive pre-emphasis to offer better performance.

QUESTION: How much data rate improvement over V.32bis is expected?

KRISHNAN: The data throughput improvement is line dependent and also impairment dependent. It is an improvement between 10 and 40 percent for lines with distortion and impairments and increases to 100 percent for good lines with high signal-to-noise ratio.

For example, at the signal-to-noise level where V.32bis modulation can support 14,400 bits per second, V.fast modulation can support 20,200 bits per second. Better signal-to-noise ratio will lead to higher speed data rates, up to 28,800 bps.

QUESTION: How will the training schemes of V.fast differ from those adopted for the V.32 standard?

KRISHNAN: An ad hoc group is working on training schemes for V.fast. The training will automode to V. series modems supported by V.32bis automode procedures and Group 3 fax machines. The modems will exchange capability parameters and selected modes of operation before the training of echo cancellers and equalizers. A faster than V.32 training is intended, with training time less than five seconds.

QUESTION: How would you summarize the benefits of the V.fast standard to users?

KRISHNAN: With the V.fast standard, we are attempting to specify a modem that will maximize throughput over the analog, ADPCM, PCM and cellular links and also will improve support for data, facsimile, TDD and multi-media applications.

Rascal-Datacom Inc

1601 North Harrison Parkway, Sunrise, FL 33323-2899

PO Box 40744, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33340-7044

305-846-1601;  fax: 305-846-3935


Racal-Datacom Seminars Offered
RACAL-DATACOM OFFERS SEMINAR ON PORTABLE COMPUTING, HIGH-SPEED MODEMS AND NETWORK MANAGEMENT

June 22, 1993 -- SUNRISE, FL. -- A free, half-day seminar entitled "The Road to Portable Computing, V.Fast, and Network Management" will be offered in a number of cities by Racal-Datacom for corporate information systems executives, data communications personnel and journalists about mobile and high-speed data communications trends.

The seminar maps out how remote and mobile users can connect to networks over cellular communications, minimizing connection costs and maximizing speed, sending and receiving faxes through PCs and laptop computers, securing the network from unauthorized users, managing remote equipment from corporate headquarters, and ensuring application compatibility.

This seminar will also detail the effects of new telecommunications standards such as the emerging "V.Fast" modem standard. "V.Fast" is the nickname for modems capable of data speeds up to 28,800 bits per second. The implications of new standards and dial technologies, as well as the growing need for comprehensive network management and network security, will be described during the seminar.

To reserve a seat call 800 323-8732, ext. 6207. The identical seminars will be offered:

* July 20 at Stouffer Dallas Hotel, 2222 Stemmons Freeway, Dallas, IX from 9 am. to noon. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

* July 21 at Sheraton Grand Hotel, 2525 West Loop South, Houston, IX from 9 am. to noon. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

* July 22 at Stouffer Austin Hotel, 9721 Arboretum Boulevard, Austin, TX from 9 a.m. to noon. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

* July 29 at the Airport Hilton, 3800 East 80th Street, Minneapolis, MN from 9 am. to noon. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

* August 4 at Wyndham Hamilton Hotel, 400 Park Boulevard, Itasca, IL from 1 to 4:30 p.m. On-site registration begins at 12:30 p.m.

Call 800-RACAL-55 for information on future seminar dates and sites.

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 is represented in more than 80 nations. It offers solutions for the implementation, integration, management and support of enterprise networks from the desk top through local area and wide area networks. Racal-Datacom is the best in the world at connecting remote offices to headquarters locations, providing a broad range of LAN/WAN products, all managed by a single network management system and all supported by a full range of network services. The company reported revenues of $560 million for the fiscal year ending March 31, 1993.

Rascal-Datacom Inc

1601 North Harrison Parkway, Sunrise, FL 33323-2899

PO Box 40744, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33340-7044

305-846-1601;  fax: 305-846-3935


LINK! Advantage Links to Over 75 Pages
PRENTICE HALL NOW LINKS TO OVER 75 PACKAGES WITH RELEASE OF LINK! ADVANTAGE 1.03

ATLANTA, June 28 -- Prentice Hall Professional Software today announced that five new general ledger systems have been added to the company's Link! Advantage product, a connectivity tool designed to import data into Prentice Hall products.

The newly supported general ledger systems are: DacEasy 4.3, QuickBooks, SBT 6.3, ABS-BACS 6.0, and ATB Write-Up. In addition to importing the data quickly and accurately, Link! Advantage checks and verifies balances and account information. The system compares opening general ledger balances with prior year balances from the trial balance in just seconds.

With this release of version 1.03, Link! Advantage now automatically imports data from over 75 general ledger, workpaper, and spreadsheet packages into Prentice Hall's workpaper and trial balance system, FAST! Advantage, and/or The Prentice Hall Tax Advantage System business modules.

System Requirements

Link! Advantage is available for $350. The system requires 510K of free RAM, DOS 3.1 or later, and an 80286-based PC. The program runs on IBM and 100% compatible computers. A color monitor, DOS 5.0, and an 80386 or 8048-based PC are recommended.

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.


FAST! Advantage Automated Workpaper Swr
NEW VERSION OF FAST! ADVANTAGE AUTOMATED WORKPAPER SOFTWARE FEATURES STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

ATLANTA, June 28 -- Prentice Hall Professional Software today announced the release of FAST! Advantage version 2.01, adding the statement of cash flows (SOCF) and other enhancements to the company's trial balance workpaper software for compilation, review, and audit work.

According to Product Manager Suzanne Phillips, CPA, the new version represents valuable additions to the product. "Version 2.01 improves the functionality of FAST! Advantage by allowing users to easily produce the direct and indirect SOCF," she says. "It also provides detail workpapers that allow accountants to analyze and document the specific activity in an account."

SOCF Easy to Produce

Accountants can produce the direct and indirect SOCF simply by creating cash flow worksheets, one for the indirect method and, if necessary, one for the direct method. The worksheets automatically calculate the difference between the prior and current-year balances and help users quickly analyze various changes during the year.

Additional Detail Workpapers Let Users Review and Analyze Account Balances

FAST! Advantage 2.01 adds detail workpapers to the trial balance and lead schedule workpapers already in the system. The system provides three types of detail workpapers: "Roll forward" for analyzing the change between the current year beginning and ending account balances; "Analysis" for analyzing an account's ending balance; and "User-designed" for creating any list of balances to be totaled.

Notes and Enhanced Text Editing

Version 2.01 also allows users to create financial statement notes that take advantage of the enhanced text editing capabilities of the FAST! Advantage financial statement module.

Tables of financial information can be created by inserting column headings into the body of the Notes statement followed by detail lines that present balances based on account or other data.

Enhanced Divisional Processing

This release adds several enhancements for working with divisions. Accountants can now copy divisions, copy a divisional master chart, change a client from non-divisional to divisional processing, and print more divisional reports.

New Chart of Accounts Features The FAST! Advantage chart of accounts now includes the ability to assign ranges of accounts to lead schedules and tax lines, so accountants can assign accounts in groups rather than one at a time. Users can also renumber the chart of accounts. The system also now includes an option to enter account balances when setting up an account, allowing users to enter the basic account information and balances for the current and prior years all on the same screen.

Export Reports to Spreadsheets

FAST! Advantage version 2.01 lets users send any report to a spreadsheet file (WK1 format) to use with spreadsheet programs such as Lotus 1-2-3. This lets accountants use their spreadsheet software to prepare specialized calculations and create graphs and charts.

System Requirements

FAST! Advantage is designed specifically for LAN environments but will operate on a single IBM PC or compatible under DOS 3.1 or higher. The software requires 640K of RAM with 510K free, and takes advantage of expanded and extended memory. It can be used with a monochrome, EGA color, or VGA color monitor. FAST! Advantage is priced at $395.

FAST! Advantage version 2.01 is the latest version of Prentice Hall's completely redesigned trial balance workpaper package. It includes input from many of the some 50,000 accountants across the country who were users of the first workpaper software package for the CPA market, Prentice Hall's FAST!.

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.


Arcadia Workplace Companion OS/2 PIM
Arcadia Workplace Companion - New OS/2 PIM Software

New York, June 29, 1993 -- Arcadia Technologies today announced that it will start shipping Arcadia Workplace Companion for OS/2, a Personal Information Manager (PIM) software product, at the beginning of July 1993. The Arcadia Workplace Companion is designed specifically for the new OS/2 2.1 32-bit Workplace Shell environment. The Companion runs with the same look-and-feel of a true Workplace Shell application using pop-up context menus, notebook controls, and drag-and-drop techniques.

"The Workplace Shell provides a state-of-the-art object-oriented user interface on top of a powerful operating system," said Robert Liu, Director of Business Development at the company. "Now, the Arcadia Workplace Companion provides a set of integrated personal productivity tools as a logical extension to the Workplace Shell for all OS/2 users."

The Companion starts with a full featured calendar and versatile clock module from which an OS/2 user can launch a visual appointment book to schedule activities, a comprehensive telephone/address book to record business contacts, a priority-based to-do list, and a free-form notepad.

The Arcadia Workplace Companion is priced at $149.95 retail. It can be purchased from selected OS/2 software dealers or by calling the 1-800-3-IBM-OS2 number (1-800-342-6672).

Arcadia Technologies, Inc., founded in 1987, has been providing graphical user interface enabling tools and applications for the PC software industry. The company is located at 735 West Duarte Road, Suite 207, Arcadia, CA 91007. It can be reached at (818) 446-6945 for voice, (818) 447-4212 for fax, and [75600,1105] for CompuServe mail.


CompressMate Spreadsheet Compression Utility
Data Compression Technology Reaches New Heights

Spreadsheet Utility Delivers Unparalleled Compression Ratios and Performance Improvements

Supports all Popular Windows and DOS Spreadsheets, Maximizes Effectiveness of Disk Doublers

June 28, 1993 -- Needham. MA -- With the PC industry's attention focused in recent months on general-purpose utilities that double a disk's capacity, Intex Solutions announces a new file-specific compression utility that compresses all popular Windows and DOS spreadsheet files by an average of 90 percent. "CompressMate" is a safe, transparent, on-the-fly compression utility that may be used alone or in conjunction with disk doublers like DoubleSpace or Stacker. The utility is available exclusively from Intex, the leading publisher and reseller of spreadsheet enhancement products, or from Intex-authorized resellers.

The Advantages of a File-Specific Compression Solution

The compression ratios achieved by CompressMate average 10:1 for typical spreadsheet files comprised of text, values and formulas; for larger files containing many formulas, compression ratios of over 100:1 can be achieved. These results are unmatched by any general purpose utility, and are more than twice as effective as those achieved by SQZ!, a popular DOS-based spreadsheet-specific add-in. Because CompressMate has been engineered to work on spreadsheet files exclusively, it offers benefits to spreadsheet users that traditional compression utilities or disk doublers are unable to offer. These benefits not only include far superior compression ratios, but also fundamental spreadsheet performance improvements including faster file save and retrieve. At the same time, CompressMate was designed to work in conjunction with disk doublers, and users of disk doubling utilities will enjoy maximum compression results when they use CompressMate along with their disk doubler.

A Product with Widespread Appeal

The potential market for CompressMate is vast, given an estimated 20 million+ spreadsheet users worldwide. In particular, the following groups of users are likely to find the greatest benefits from CompressMate: users with large numbers of spreadsheet files; users who have created large spreadsheet models (such as financial analysts, budget managers, etc.); users with limited disk space (such as owners of laptops, notebooks, palmtops, or older PCs); users who rely on floppy disks for file storage; users who need to transmit files over a modem; users with satellite-based E-mail systems; and users on networks where disk doublers are not supported.

Early CompressMate users speak highly of the product; beta tester Louis Culver of Birmingham, Alabama writes "CompressMate is an excellent program. One 76,126 byte file was compressed to just 4,667 bytes! " And beta tester Howard Vendaleck of Painesville, Ohio notes, "CompressMate will be very useful on my Toshiba 3100 with only a 10 megabyte hard disk CompressMate will extend the useful life of my computer, saving me money upgrading my hardware."

Other Unique Advantages

Aside from the superior compression ratios achieved by CompressMate, the product offers a host of additional benefits and conveniences. First, CompressMate is compatible with all popular DOS and Windows spreadsheets, including Lotus 1-2-3, Excel and Quattro Pro. By contrast, SQZ! does not currently support Lotus 1-2-3 release 3.4 or any Windows spreadsheet formats. Second, CompressMate works completely "on the fly." This means that users can work in a normal manner while CompressMate compresses and uncompresses files transparently. Unlike SQZ!, CompressMate can even work simultaneously with compressed or uncompressed files, so it's not necessary to remove CompressMate from memory to work with regular spreadsheet files. Third, depending on the user's system and files, file save and file retrieve may be improved considerably. The performance improvements in save and retrieve on a standard 486 PC were found to average 2.5 times; the performance improvements were even greater when saving to or retrieving from slower diskettes, networked drives and laptop drives. Fourth, CompressMate is fully network compatible, so network users can now benefit from file compression even when other technologies, such as disk doublers, cannot function. And finally, CompressMate, unlike some other compression utilities, is fully compatible with file viewers, so compressed files may always be seen and accessed easily.

When loaded, CompressMate occupies less than 50k RAM. Users are given the option of retaining or removing formula values or blank cells during compression, features that can enhance the compression results greatly. CompressMate also includes features which allow users to easily perform advanced operations such as batch compression or decompression. An uncompress utility is provided and may be distributed freely, in order that CompressMate files may be read by non-licensed users.

Price and Availability

The single-user list price of CompressMate is $99 (plus $5 shipping), with an introductory price of just $79 through the end of 1993. Corporate multi-user and LAN versions are also available at considerable savings; for example, a 5-user pack is $350, and a 10-user pack is $600. CompressMate is supplied separately in DOS or Windows versions. The DOS version, compatible with Lotus 1-2-3 rel. 2.x, 3.x, Symphony and Quattro Pro for DOS, is expected to ship by July 15, 1993. The Windows version, compatible with Lotus 1-2-3 for Windows rel. 1.0, 1.1 and 4.0, Microsoft Excel rel. 3.0 and 4.0, and Quattro Pro for Windows rel. 1.0, is expected to ship by September 30, 1993. For more information, users may call Intex Solutions directly at 617-449-6222.

Intex Solutions Inc, 35 Highland Circle, Needham, MA 02194

617-449-6222


Spectrum Media-Link Accelerated Video Board
SPECTRUM SIGNAL'S NEW VIDEO BOARD COMBINES COST EFFECTIVE C31 FLOATING POINT DSP AND SPECTRUM'S MEDIA-LINK FOR ACCELERATED IMAGE PROCESSING.

BURNABY, British Columbia, June 21, 1993-- Spectrum Signal Processing today introduced the latest product in the company's MEDIA-LINK family, a new Video Board designed to provide an integrated image capture, process and display system.

The new MEDIA-LINK Video Board (MLVB) includes an on-board color image capture subsystem, a DSP subsystem, and an image display subsystem on a single PC plug-in board.

The MEDIA-LINK Video Board, which can add power and speed to medical imaging systems, remote sensors, and machine vision/robotics, is built around Texas Instruments' 40MHz TMS320C31 DSP, and includes Spectrum's unique MEDIA-LINK Controller (MLC). The MLC allows other MEDIA-LINK boards to access the frame buffer at high speed, providing a means to achieve greater image processing power between processors without bottlenecks.

"The MEDIA-LINK Video Board is ideal for imaging applications requiring parallel processing systems, such as medical imaging," said Spectrum President and CEO Barry Jinks. "The C31 from TI combined with our MLC offers designers the speed and performance capabilities required for computational-intensive graphics processing."

The MLVB uses a Texas Instruments' TMS34020 Graphics System Processor to generate video I/O timing signals, control the serial ports of the VRAM for display and capture, and perform graphics drawing operations. The TMS34020 is compatible with NTSC and PAL.

C31 Ideal For Handling Complex Graphics Applications

The TM5320C31 is a streamlined, cost-reduced version of TI's TMS320C30. It requires less power, with complete code compatibility. Several features of the TM5320C31 make it ideally suited to imaging and graphics applications:

* Single-instruction parallel floating-point multiplier/accumulator

  for matrix and vector arithmetic.

* Addressing modes for retrieving and storing vectors and matrices.

* Internal memories for efficient workspace operations.

The C31 satisfies many of the needs of advanced graphics and imaging applications - including a data throughput rate of more than 40 MFLOPS. It is also capable of accessing large banks of memory.

The MEDIA-LINK interface, which Spectrum developed last year using ASIC technology, affords designers "processor independence" by eliminating interprocessor slowdown and guaranteeing smooth communications in applications that demand them. Any C31 on the MEDIA-LINK network is able to directly access the resources of any other processor on the MEDIA-LINK network. Bringing the C31 and MEDIA-LINK together in the MLVB offers designers a complete range of cost-effective options without sacrificing performance.

To help designers develop algorithms for their applications quickly and efficiently, Spectrum provides a video system control library, MEDIA-LINK Communications Library, and an MLView utility program. Spectrum also offers optional software which includes an image processing library, TM5320C3X DSP and TMS34020 GSP C compilers and assembly language tools, DSP debugger and XDS500 debugger.

The MLVB connects to both the DSP/PC and the C31 Quad via MEDIA-LINK to provide a turnkey image processing system integrating a host CPU, an image capture, image process, and image display.

The MLVB will be available in early Q4 from Spectrum at US $5,995 each. Significant discounts are available for OEMs purchasing in volume.

Spectrum Signal Processing is the leading developer of system and processor boards, software tools, hardware systems and other digital signal processing products for the PC, VME and Sbus environments. These systems support digital signal processors from all major DSP vendors. Spectrum's unique modular DSP hardware allows users to interface off-the-shelf peripheral I/O boards with the processor of their choice. Spectrum Signal Processing Inc. is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol SSPIF, and on the Vancouver Stock Exchange under the symbol SSY.

Spectrum Signal Processing Inc

8525 Baxter Place, 100 Production Court, Burnaby, BC V5A 4V7 CANADA

604-421-5422;  fax: 604-421-1764


New C50 Octal Processor Systems from Spectrum
NEW PC AND VME C40 OCTAL PROCESSOR SYSTEMS FROM SPECTRUM ADD DENSITY, MFLOPS TO PARALLEL PROCESSING PRODUCT FAMILY

Burnaby, B.C., June 21, 1993 - Spectrum Signal Processing today introduced the latest members of its C40 family of parallel processing system boards, two new high-performance DSP boards that provide support for eight 50 MHz TMS320C40 DSPs and up to 400 MFLOPS in a single PC or VME slot.

Spectrum's new PC and VME C40 Octal Processor Systems feature a scalable topology that allows designers to easily add Spectrum's TIM-40 standard single and twin processor modules and boards, and to maximize system performance per cubic inch. The C40 communication ports are buffered, and can be used to build large networks for high-throughput parallel processing applications, such as advanced imaging, sonar, radar, simulation and modeling systems.

"These new Octal Processor Systems are the latest in a family designed for high performance parallel processing applications," said Barry Jinks, Spectrum President and CEO. "No other PC or VME board can provide this many megaflops of DSP processing power as well as offer a fully modular system. The Octal Processor System is the result of our ongoing development program to apply the latest in DSP technology to high end system designs."

The C40 Octal Processor offers direct host access to each processor through the JTAG interface. When combined with Spectrum's source level debugger, this system allows users to debug code in C, assembler, or in both at the same time. The JTAG signal lines are daisy-chained through each of the module sites on the board.

The C40 communications port buffering provides protection logic to preempt data transfer when I/O conflicts occur between ports, thus preventing damage to the C40s. Also, one of the communication ports on each module is available to the host ISA or VME bus via a specially-developed Link Interface Adapter (LIA). This allows direct communication between the host and any C40 module. "The Link Interface Adapter was developed to meet multi-processing system configuration requirements," said Ross Mitchell, Spectrum's Business Development Manager. "Data is transferred directly through individual communication ports with all of the required control and monitoring functions."

The C40 Octal Processor System is available with a complete set of parallel and multiprocessor application software tools, including an assembler/linker, ANSI C compiler, and C source-level debugger from Texas Instruments, 3L parallel C compiler, ISI's Virtuoso, and Tartan's FloTar and FasTar libraries. The SPOX operating system for DSP-based systems, from Spectron Microsystems, and the Helios operating system will also be available. Spectrum provides a high-level language interface library for PC interfaces. "We have integrated a full suite of tools so customers can obtain a complete system from one vendor," said Mitchell.

The C40 Octal Processor Systems are available now from Spectrum in single quantities at U.S. $19,145 for the PC and U.S. $18,240 for the VME. Discounts are available for OEMs who purchase in volume.

Spectrum Signal Processing is the leading developer of system and processor boards, software tools, hardware systems and other digital signal processing products for the PC, VME and SBus environments. These systems support digital signal processors from all major DSP vendors. Spectrum's unique modular DSP hardware allows users to interface off-the-shelf peripheral I/O boards with the processor of their choice. Spectrum Signal Processing Inc. is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol SSPIF, and on the Vancouver Stock Exchange under the symbol SSY.

Spectrum Signal Processing Inc

8525 Baxter Place, 100 Production Court, Burnaby, BC V5A 4V7 CANADA

604-421-5422;  fax: 604-421-1764


BSPs For SPOX Integration of Spectrum DSP Brds
BSPs Offer Seamless SPOX Integration for Spectrum DSP Boards

FIRST BOARD SUPPORT PACKAGES, DEFINED BY SPECTRON MICROSYSTEMS SET FOR LEADING BOARDS FROM SPECTRUM SIGNAL PROCESSING

BURNABY, British Columbia, and Santa Barbara Calif., June 21, 1993--Two leaders in advanced DSP-based technology today jointly announced the first of a new set of software packages designed to speed and simplify application development.

Spectron Microsystems, Inc. and Spectrum Signal Processing introduced Board Support Packages (BSPs) which customize the SPOX 2.0 real time kernel for Spectrum's boards based on the TMS320C31 and TMS320C40 digital signal processors. Designed and defined by Spectron, the Board Support Packages work in conjunction with SPOX 2.0 to provide a turnkey environment for application development using the Spectrum DSP boards. The BSPs deliver device driver support for Spectrum's on-board peripherals and for popular daughter modules. They also deliver DSP application-to-host communications, stream and buffered I/O services for PC and VME hosts, and C stdio extensions to the DSP compiler.

The Board Support packages customize SPOX 2.0 for the C31 and C40 boards and include the following features.

* pre-configured SPOX installation utilities that support Spectrum board configurations and enable users to build and run SPOX programs with no additional system software development.

* access to the full SPOX 2.0 feature set including multi-tasking interrupt handling, memory management, real-time I/O and inter-processor communications.

* multi-processing support including sophisticated intertask and interprocessor communication services.

For the CV4 TMS320C40 6U VME Board (the TMS320C40 Multi-processor board), the BSP will provide high performance single and multi-channel drivers for communication between C40 processors and between C40 processors and external devices.

The BSPs also support the following features of Spectrum's C31 and C40 boards:

* TMS320C40 TIM-40 modules, Link Interface Adapter, and dBeX/32 real-time I/O peripherals on the CV4 VME Board.

* Analog Daughter Modules, Serial I/O, and dual-port SRAM PC interface on the C31 Real-Time Applications Board.

"Spectron's BSPs provide all the hardware specific components necessary for developers to get optimum application performance from the Spectrum DSP boards," said Nancy Haydt, Spectron's Vice President of Marketing. "By providing turnkey installation for SPOX 2.0, Spectron has made possible for users of these Spectrum boards to cut in half the time it takes to develop complex DSP applications."

Spectrum's TMS320C31 Real Time Board is the most cost-effective PC-based DSP application development and is designed for high-volume OEM and embedded system applications. Spectrum's TMS320C40 boards for the VME and PC bus provide flexible scalable platforms for multi-processing application development. With SPOX 2.0 and the Spectrum BSP, Spectrum C40 customers can develop multi-processing application initially with a single processor and then rehost it - with no code modification--as more processors are added to the board.

Pricing for the Spectrum BSPs begins at US $2,000. The C31 will be available by the end of July, and the C40 BSP will be available by the end of August 1993.

Spectron Microsystems, Inc., based in Santa Barbara is the leader in DSP based software systems. Founded in 1987, the company develops and markets advanced software products for DSP systems and is the innovator of SPOX, the DSP standard in system software. The company works with all of the leading DSP devices, board, and computer systems vendors to bring DSP capabilities to a wider group of designers and developers.

Spectrum Signal Processing is the leading developer of system and processor boards, software tools, hardware systems and other digital signal processing products for the PC, VME and Sbus environments. These systems support digital signal processors from all major DSP vendors. Spectrum's unique modular DSP hardware allows users to interface off-the-shelf peripheral I/O boards with the processor of their choice. Spectrum Signal Processing Inc. is publicly traded on NASDAQ under the symbol SSPIF, and on the Vancouver Stock Exchange under the symbol SSY.

Spectrum Signal Processing Inc

8525 Baxter Place, 100 Production Court, Burnaby, BC V5A 4V7 CANADA

604-421-5422;  fax: 604-421-1764


WinZip 4.1 Makes Quick Work of ZIP Work

BRISTOL, CT July 6, 1993 -- WinZip, already well known for bringing the drag-and-drop, point-and-click convenience of Windows to to the use of PKZIP and PKUNZIP, is now even easier to use.  A new status line keeps you informed of the progress of unzip operations, the size of files, and provides help for menu entries.  Many operations have been improved. For example, it is now easy to view a file in a ZIP with either the application associated with the file, the built-in ASCII viewer, or the external viewer of your choice.  This release implements better support for PKZIP 2.0, including support for creation of ZIPs that span multiple floppies, all compression methods, and passwords.  WinZip 4.1 adds the ability to create permanent or temporary Program Manager Groups with one icon for each file in an archive.  Use the CheckOut feature to create a Program Manager Group for the files in a ZIP you just downloaded, try out zipped files, and optionally delete the Group and files.

Key product features include:

* Full Drag and Drop Support

* Built-in UnZipping

* PKZIP 2.0 Support, including Disk Spanning

* Works with ARJ, ARC, and LZH Files

* Optional Virus Scanning Support

WinZip will run on any Windows 3.1 compatible machine.  The PKZIP and PKUNZIP utilities from PKWARE, Inc. must be installed.  For ARJ, ARC, and LHA support the respective utilties are required.  WinZip interfaces to most virus scanning utilities, including SCAN from McAfee Associates, NAV from Symantec, and the MSAV scanner included with MS-DOS 6.0.

WinZip 4.1 is available now for $29, including shipping.  It may be purchased directly from Nico Mak, P.O.  Box 919, Bristol CT 06011-0919. For credit card orders, call the Public Software Library at 1-800-242-4775 (voice) or 713-524-6398 (FAX).  Fully functional evaluation copies are available from computer bulletin boards and CompuServe, or directly from Nico Mak for $5 (applicable to purchase price).  Quantity discounts and site licensing are available.

Nico Mak, P.O. Box 919, Bristol, CT 06011


Low Cost Network Fax Software for Windows
LOW-COST NETWORK FAX SOFTWARE FOR WINDOWS IS INTRODUCED

July 7, 1993 -- Pacific Image Communications, Inc. has introduced Network SuperFax 5.1 for Windows, a product that provides Windows users with a low cost way  to utilize networked faxing.  The product enables users to leverage their current investment in EIA Class I/II fax-modems and use them within networked environments.  With a suggested retail price of just $199, Network SuperFax is the lowest priced, Windows-based, network fax software available today.

"This product is an ideal solution for small workgroups that need to share a single fax-modem", states Glen Sugimoto, Marketing Manager at Pacific Image Communications.  Network SuperFax 5.1 allows users to view, print, send, receive, and edit faxes.  In addition, users can access phone directories, receive private fax transmissions, and send faxes from any computer on the network.  "We're targeting Windows users who need a simple and inexpensive method for obtaining the benefits of network faxing", adds Sugimoto.  These benefits include the ability to broadcast faxes, print received faxes on plain paper, and avoid waiting in line to use the fax machine.

Workstation users of SuperFax 5.1 can fax directly out of any Windows application program such as Lotus 1-2-3, Microsoft Word or Aldus PageMaker.  Outgoing faxes are placed in a systematic fax queue for efficient faxing.  Users can also internally route received faxes to any workstation on the network.  Depending on a company's operating policy, incoming faxes can be publicly accessed by all network users or routed to specific individuals.

Network SuperFax 5.1 is compatible with most popular network operating systems, including Netware, Lantastic, and Windows for Workgroups.  Pacific Image Communications is offering a 90-day promotional upgrade for $129 to users of any fax software product.  Current owners of any SuperFax product can upgrade for $99 and additional workstation licenses can be purchased directly from Pacific Image Communications.  Dealer inquiries are encouraged.

Network SuperFax 5.1 for Windows

$199 for one server and five workstations

Pacific Image Communications, Inc.

919 S. Fremont Ave., Suite 238, Alhambra, CA 91803

Phone: (818) 457-8880   Fax: (818)457-8881


TommySoftware CAD/DRAW for Windows V1.10b
Pik A Program is proud to be the American distributor for TommySoftware CAD/DRAW for Windows Version 1.10b

* winner of the award "The best shareware ever"

  by the magazine "WIN"

* professional implementation

* huge number of functions

* very, very fast

* can import and export DXF (Autocad) files

* Popup-menu and free hot key definition

* works with all European and US measures

  such as mile, yard, foot, inch, cm, mm, km, micrometer

  and others

* Splines, bezier curves and zigzag lines

* multicopy function

* free editable library and text editor

* free editable fonts

* powerful ways to select/hatch objects

* Outlines and free hand drawing

* Groups and special CAD functions like: Measure and Dimension

* shareware bestseller in Europe

* member of Association of Shareware Professionals

* registration is only $49.95 (plus $4.00 shipping)

The following are libraries written for CAD/DRAW which should be available this summer at additional cost:

* electrical engineering Part 1

* electronics

* electrical installation

* electrical information processing

* process technology

* valves

* heaters and air regulators

* chemistry 1, 2 and 3

* interior design: kitchen

* interior design: living room

* hydraulics

* ecology

* landscapes planning

* electrical engineering Part 2

* steel wing sections

System requirements:

386sx or higher processor, Windows 3.0, 2 meg ram,

4 meg hard drive space, mouse

Pik A Program, 13 Saint Marks Place, New York, NY 10003

PHONE: (212) 598-4459       FAX: (212) 228-5879


New LabVIEW Technical Newsletter
Alliance Program Spawns Independent LabVIEW Technical Newsletter

June 25, 1993 -- Dallas, TX - LTR Publishers and National Instruments (Austin, TX) today announced a new quarterly publication targeted at LabVIEW users and system developers. The LabVIEW Technical Resource (LTR) provides in-depth technical information to novice and expert users.

LTR articles focus on LabVIEW programming methodology; tips and techniques; technical user case studies; and hardware and software issues related to developing LabVIEW systems with data acquisition, VXI, and GPIB hardware. Each issue also includes a disk of LabVIEW VIs and utilities that implement methods described in that issue.

LTR editors Jeff Parker and Lynda Gruggett each have seven years experience programming with LabVIEW, including five years developing LabVIEW at National Instruments. Both are members of the company's Alliance Program and specialize in developing custom LabVIEW data acquisition and control systems.

Subscription Pricing and for More Information

Subscription price of the LabVIEW Technical Resource is $95 for four quarterly issues. For a complimentary issue, with sample disk, or for more information, contact LTR Publishing at 5614 Anita, Dallas, TX 75206, phone (214) 827-9931. Fax (214) 827-9932.

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


Lab.dbf VI Library for LabVIEW Data Access
New Lab.dbf VI Library for LabVIEW Accesses Popular Databases for Easier Data Management and Report Generation

April 27, 1993 -- Norwood, MA - Porter Consulting, today announced Lab.dbf, a new virtual instrument (VI) library for LabVIEW, from National Instruments, that is used to access databases residing on VAX, MVS, and AS/400 computer systems. With Lab.dbf, for Windows-based PCs and Macintosh computers, LabVIEW users can transfer acquired data directly into popular databases for easier data management. Porter Consulting is a member of the National Instruments Alliance Program.

Lab.dbf uses a variety of networks to transfer data, including Novell, NetBIOS, TCP/IP, DECnet, and AppleTalk. ClearAccess, a database access software package from Fairfield Software, communicates with Lab.dbf over the network to transfer LabVIEW data into the database. Lab.dbf provides LabVIEW users an interface that requires no knowledge of the network or database. To store acquired data into a database, users simply connect to the server and log on to the database - similar to opening a file. Next, users pass data to the Database Write VI which handles all networking and protocol requirements automatically. After the data is transferred, another VI closes the connection to the server. Users can fetch data from the database in a similar manner.

"Lab.dbf solves the problem of data management and report generation for test engineers and researchers," says Janet Porter, marketing director of Porter Consulting. "A key feature of Lab.dbf is that engineers can use it to leverage off existing resources in their company. Most large companies and universities already have computers capable of handling the amount of data that an automated test system generates."

Pricing, Availability, and for More Information

Lab.dbf, for Windows-based PCs and Macintosh computers is available now from Porter Consulting for $500. For more information, contact Porter Consulting, 85 Casey St., Norwood, MA 02062, (617) 769-3752.

LabVIEW, with versions for Windows and Macintosh, is available now from National Instruments for $1,995. For more information about LabVIEW, 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.


LabVIEW Application Notes Cover FFT & More
New LabVIEW Application Notes Cover Fast Fourier Transforms and Power Spectra and Linear Systems

June 25, 1993 -- Austin, TX-National Instruments has published two new application notes on its multiplatform LabVIEW graphical instrumentation software. The new application notes are titled "Fast Fourier Transforms and Power Spectra in LabVIEW" and "Linear Systems in LabVIEW."

The first application note, "Fast Fourier Transforms and Power Spectra in LabVIEW," discusses properties of Fast Fourier Transforms (FFTs) and how to interpret and display FFT results. The note also covers how to manipulate FFT and power spectrum results to extract useful frequency information.

The second application note, "Linear Systems in LabVIEW," describes the difference equations for discrete-time and time-invariant linear systems and how to use LabVIEW block diagrams to implement these equations. The note also discusses the Z transform, signal flow graphs, discrete input and output sequences, and an example that models a simple, linear, time-invariant system.

About LabVIEW

LabVIEW is a general-purpose graphical programming package with extensive libraries for data acquisition, instrument control, data analysis, and data presentation. With LabVIEW, engineers and scientists build software modules called virtual instruments (VIs) instead of writing text-based programs. LabVIEW runs on Windows-based PCs, Macintosh computers, and Sun SPARCstations. Typical LabVIEW applications include laboratory automation, automated testing, automotive and aerospace engineering, process monitoring and control, physiological monitoring, and personal instrumentation.

To request a free copy of "Fast Fourier Transforms and Power Spectra in LabVIEW" (part number 340479-01) or "Linear Systems in LabVIEW" (part number 340478-01), or for more information, please contact National Instruments at 6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Austin, TX 78730-5039, (512) 794-0100. Call toll free in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 433-3488. Fax: (512) 794-8411.


Apple Expands Education Product Line
APPLE EXPANDS EDUCATION PRODUCT LINE AND MARKETING PROGRAMS AT NECC '93

New Technologies, Programs, Leadership Grants Aimed at Providing Educators with Media Rich Learning Tools

ORLANDO, Florida--June 28, 1993--In keeping with the theme of the 1993 National Educational Computing Conference (NECC), "The Magic of Technology,'' Apple Computer, Inc.'s K-12 Education division today announced a suite of new products and strategic programs that embrace several exciting new technologies and showcase Apple's continuing commitment to provide compelling technology solutions for education.

Unveiled for the first time as part of a worldwide product introduction, Apple introduced the Apple Macintosh LC 520, an all-in-one computer system designed for the needs of education customers. The new LC 520 features sophisticated media capabilities including an integrated CD-ROM drive, high-quality stereo sound, vibrant color display and Energy Star efficiency. Apple also debuted the Personal LaserWriter 300, its most affordable and energy efficient laser printer offering high quality, low cost printing and sharing capabilities ideally suited to the needs of the education market.

"As the leader in education, Apple is committed to the continued development of advanced technology solutions that allow educators to create authentic learning environments,'' said Cheryl Vedoe, vice president and general manager of Apple's K-12 Education division. "These two products reflect our on-going commitment to create powerful learning tools that are affordable, easy-to-use and energy efficient."

In a press briefing held today at NECC, Apple also announced an expanded product direction that focuses on providing tools and technologies aimed at the preschool segment of the education market. Apple detailed its plans to offer special hardware and software solutions bundles designed for preschool students, as well as training and productivity solutions for teachers and administrators of preschool practices.

"In keeping with the Goals 2000 initiative of ensuring learning readiness, we believe it is critical that the preschool population has equal access to the same technology-rich solutions that have proven successful for K-12 students," noted Vedoe. ''The integration of multimedia into early learning curriculum, for example, is an especially compelling solution for preschool students, teachers and administrators.''

Apple's Leadership Position Showcased at NECC with Presentations, Receptions and Philanthropic Awards

Apple will also host a variety of other activities during the conference, including:

* The Apple Showcase Room, open Monday, June 28th through Wednesday, June 30th. NECC attendees can view exhibits, see informal presentations and talk with teachers and students engaged in exciting uses of technology in classrooms across the country. Consult Apple PR Information Station (Booth #811) for location, times and details.

* Announcement of the 1993 Apple Education Leadership Grants recipients. Many of this year's recipients from the 29 organizations awarded will be in attendance at the Apple Education Leadership Grants reception on Tuesday, June 29th, at the Marriott Orlando World Center (Anaheim/Atlanta/Boston Rooms).

* Showcase of more than 15 new educational solutions in the Apple booth from leading educational software developers

Apple Computer, Inc. is a leading supplier of advanced personal computer systems to education, business, consumer and government markets in the U.S. and is a recognized innovator in the personal computer industry. The company does business in more than 120 countries.

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

408-996-1010


Accolade Signs Charles Barkley of NBA
ACCOLADE SIGNS CHARLES BARKLEY - THE NBA'S 1993 MOST VALUABLE PLAYER - TO MULTI-PRODUCT CONTRACT

SAN JOSE, Calif. - June 29, 1993 -- Accolade has taken its commitment to Games with Personality to a new level by signing an exclusive, worldwide licensing agreement with basketball MVP Charles Barkley. Recently honored with the NBA's most coveted award, Barkley will add his flashy style and well-known personality to the game by co-designing and endorsing Accolade's line of action-packed basketball simulations. The game is scheduled for release on the Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis and IBM PC and compatible computers during the first quarter of next year.

Hailed by his fans and even his critics as "Sir Charles", Barkley has earned the distinction of being one of the NBA's great personalities and the all-time NBA leader in fines assessed. Ranked fifth in the entire NBA for rebounds and points scored per game. the 6-foot-five-inch, 250-pound forward for the Phoenix Suns is known for his exuberance both on and off the court. "I'm a tough guy. I go out and compete every night. If you want to test my limits, go ahead," says Barkley.

"With Michael Jordan his only real peer in the game, Barkley has taken basketball to a new and disorderly level," said Danny Pisano, the game's producer. "We are looking forward to integrating his fast-breaking, intimidating, whatever-it-takes-to-win playing "style into the game."

"I love to play basketball, I love to have fun. and I love to win," says Barkley. "With Accolade's impressive record of award-winning games. I'm sure that my enthusiasm for basketball will be reflected in the home version."

Accolade, 5300 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95129

408-985-1700;  Fax: 408-246-1053


Bubsy Bobcat Inks Deal w/Imagination Factory
BUBSY BOBCAT INKS DEAL WITH NEW AGENT, IMAGINATION FACTORY, INC.

SAN JOSE, CA -- JUNE 30, 1993--Accolade, a leading, worldwide developer and publisher of videogames and computer entertainment software, has announced that it has reached an agreement with Burbank, CA based Imagination Factory, Inc. as the exclusive merchandising and licensing agent for "Bubsy Bobcat." Under the terms of the agreement, the sensational new star of the hit videogame "Bubsy in: Claws Encounters of the Furred Kind," will be represented worldwide by Imagination Factory. "Bubsy Bobcat" recently made his licensing and merchandising debut at the 1993 Licensing Expo in New York.

"Bubsy is a bobcat with a big personality, a big attitude and soon, a big following," said Charlotte Taylor Skeel, Director of Licensing at Accolade. "From the moment we introduced Bubsy at the Consumer Electronics Show in January of this year, we were besieged with inquiries from prospective licensees both here and abroad. It was evident right from the start that Bubsy would require special handling." Skeel added, "The Imagination Factory's Stanford Blum proved very early on that he was the best equipped to manage such an important new character."

According to Blum, "Bubsy Bobcat" is the best character I have seen in years. He's bold, he's cocky and he's extremely funny. He appeals to both children and adults alike. Knowing that will be the next decade's 'toon' star, I pursued the rights to make Bubsy the next major star in the market place."

Blum, President of Imagination Factory, Inc. is responsible for some of the licensing industry's most successful merchandised properties, including campaigns for the original motion pictures "Star Wars" and "Rocky". He has also represented such properties as "Babar the Elephant", the 1980 and 1984 Summer Olympics, the "Rolling Stones" and the "BeeGees." In addition to "Bubsy Bobcat," The Imagination Factory currently represents "Zorro", Wieder Health & Fitness Corp. and "Bad Baby."

Among the first endeavors Imagination Factory has arranged for "Bubsy Bobcat" is an animated television special slated to air over the Thanksgiving Weekend in 1993 during the "Kid's Day Off" block, a syndication package by Bohbot Communications, Inc. The special, entitled "What Could Possibly Go Wrong?", is a combination of classic slapstick animation and utilizes various animation techniques, as well as live action. This special, a pilot episode for a potential animated series, is being created and produced by Accolade, Imagination Factory, and Calico Entertainment.

Imagination Factory is located at 1107 West Isabel Street, Burbank, CA 91506. Telephone (818) 954-8221. Fax (818) 954-8909

Accolade is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of entertainment software for PC compatible personal computers and leading video game machines, including the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Nintendo Gameboy, and Sega Genesis.

Accolade, 5300 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95129

408-985-1700;  Fax: 408-246-1053


New 3 Year Warranty on Mistubishi Monitors
MITSUBISHI ELECTRONICS ANNOUNCES NEW THREE-YEAR WARRANTY ON COLOR MONITOR LINE

CYPRESS, Calif., July 1, 1993 -- The Display Products Group of Mitsubishi Electronics America, Inc. today announced a new three-year limited warranty on their new and current 14- to 21-inch color monitors.

By increasing the warranty program from two to three years, Mitsubishi is able to provide top of the line monitors for general business, design and engineering applications that carry a warranty compatible with most leading PC manufacturers. Bundling a Mitsubishi monitor with an IBM or Compaq PC, in lieu of a pre-packaged system display, is made easy with compatible warranties.

"Most system monitors are mediocre performers with short life spans, unlike our products which are renowned for their crisp, bright images and durability," stated Craig Sloss, product marketing manager. "Matching a set of superior components creates a high-performance system at the same basic price."

Mitsubishi is the only leading monitor vendor to provide a three-year warranty on a full line of desktop displays, including models from the company's third-generation flat square line.

"We want to provide all users with the greatest amount of flexibility and peace of mind when they purchase a Mitsubishi monitor," said Sloss. "Our monitors have earned their reputation for high reliability, and now they are backed by one of the best service and support programs in the business."

Mitsubishi Display Products, a leading supplier of premier high resolution 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 monitor manufacturers to offer all three CRT types, including large screen, and each of its monitors is 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;   FAX: 714-229-3854;   800-828-6372


NSSI Intros NET-UPS, Network-Ready UPS
NSSI INTRODUCES NET-UPS: NETWORK-READY UPS

One Convenient Package Provides Reliable and Complete Network Power Management Solution

SAN DIEGO, July 1, 1993 - Network Security Systems, Inc., (NSSI) today introduced its line of NET-UPS, Network-Ready UPSes designed to provide dependable and ready to use network power backup and management solutions in Novell or UNIX environments. Each NSSI NET-UPS gives system administrators everything they need to set up a complete network power system:

intelligent uninterruptible power supply (IPS/A.I. 450VA, 600VA, 800VA or 1200VA), RS-232 serial cable for bi-directional communication across the network, and award-winning network power management software (LanSafe II) -- all at a reduced price.

"System administrators and value-added resellers are facing an increasingly complex computing environment where they must mix and match network power protection components, juggle multiple part numbers, while ultimately paying too much for each individual piece, " said Bill Humphreys, president of NSSI. "The market wants a reliable and simple solution to implement network power backup. NSSI has responded with a hassle-free yet effective power management product: NET-UPS."

Using the NET-UPS combination of network power products, 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 instantly, conduct networkwide tests, reboot or shut down any protected network device, and view historical power event logs.

If a prolonged power outage occurs, the system will begin an orderly shutdown of the Novell or 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.

Exclusive NSSI power management features include:

* simultaneous power management of all network devices with an attached NSSI UPS, -- including bridges, workstations and file servers

* remote control of hardware through LAN or WAN connections

* instant, software controlled hardware configuration changes (no more dip switches or onsite technical personnel needed)

* "brownout regulator" feature for remote and instant selection of upper and lower voltage limits for UPS transfer to battery, thus customizing the hardware to local power conditions and preserving battery capacity The NET-UPS product line is available now. The U.S. list prices are:

NET-UPS 450  - Novell  $  549

NET-UPS 600  - Novell  $  699

NET-UPS 800  - Novell  $  899

NET-UPS 1200 - Novell  $1,299

NET-UPS 450  - UNIX    $  562

NET-UPS 600  - UNIX    $  710

NET-UPS 800  - UNIX    $  910

NET-UPS 1200 - UNIX    $1,310

NSSI is recognized as the leading market innovator in network and standalone power management system solutions. Its award-winning Intelligent Power System hardware and LanSafe family of software support Novell, UNIX, Windows, OS/2, LAN Manager, and LAN Server. NSSI's products are available through value-added resellers and major distributors.

NSSI's entire line of products is backed by a full, two-year warranty which may be extended up to five years. For additional product information, contact NSSI at (800) 755-7078

NSSI, 9401 Waples St, San Diego, CA 92121

(619) 587-7950;   (800) 755-7078;   Fax: (619) 552-9162


LabVIEW Video VI Image Capture & Analysis Lib
New Video VI Image Capture and Analysis Library for LabVIEW on the Macintosh

June 25, 1993 -- Pacifica, CA - Stellar Solutions announced today Video VI, an add-on virtual instrument (VI) library that acquires, displays, and analyzes images on the Macintosh in applications created with LabVIEW, from National Instruments. Stellar Solutions is a member of the National Instruments Alliance Program.

With Video VI, LabVIEW users can build instrumentation and process control systems that integrate image visualization and image measurement capabilities into their application. Typical applications of Video VI include interpretation of an image combined with reading sensor data (such as temperature, pressure, and voltage), recording area and length measurements of regions selected on screen graphically by the operator, and comparison of intensity (or luminosity) readings in identical regions in a series of images. Application areas include medical and biological research, radiology, material science, and engineering.

With Video VI, users can download a video frame from a digitizer board into LabVIEW in the form of a two-dimensional (2D) array. Users can also import TIFF files into Video VI from a disk. The image data is displayed in a floating window where users can point and select regions to analyze. Users can load various color lookup tables (CLUTs) to visualize the image with different color gradations. Users can also extract rectangular portions of an image for analysis and magnification change.

The analysis functions of Video VI include extraction of the coordinates and intensity of a point, length and intensity profile of a line, histogram of an image or a rectangular portion of an image, and area of a polygon. Users can calibrate spatial measurements and express them in real units. After analysis, any quantitative data is returned to LabVIEW, where users can further analyze or manipulate it using the Advanced Analysis Library in LabVIEW.

Price, Availability and for More Information

Video VI is available now from GTFS, Inc. for $200. The package includes comprehensive examples, sample images, and CLUTs. Video VI is currently compatible with the QuickCapture DT2255 board from Data Translation and the LG3 digitizer board from Scion Corporation. Video VI requires LabVIEW Version 2.2.1 or higher. For more information about Video VI, please contact GTFS, Inc., 2455 Bennett Valley Rd., Suite 100C, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, (707) 579-1733. Fax: (707) 578-3195.

LabVIEW for Macintosh is available now from National Instrument for $1,995. For more information about LabVIEW, please contact National Instruments, 6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Austin, TX 78730-5039, (512) 794-0100. Call toll free in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 433-3488. Fax: (512) 794-8411.


ETC 15 Inch Monitor with Precise Color Control
ETC INTRODUCES ECONOMICAL NEW 15 INCH MONITOR WITH PRECISE COLOR CONTROL

New Flat Screen, Microprocessor Controlled Multiscan Monitor For PC/XT/AT, PS/2, and Mac IIs is First Monitor With Digital Front-Panel Color/Image Controls Listed At $719

Fremont, CA--July 5, 1993--ETC Computer, Inc., a rising player in the monitor market, is introducing the Model CA-1565CP, a 15-inch flat screen, microprocessor-controlled multiscan color monitor featuring front-panel digital controls for precise adjustment of color and image parameters, list priced at $719.00.

The CA-1565CP joins ETC's family of ViewMagic-brand monitors and is the first economical monitor in the PreciseColor series which includes separate adjustments for the color of both foreground and background images displayed on the screen. The monitor also includes front panel controls to adjust the display's vertical and horizontal position, and to correct for rotation (tilted image), pincushion (bowed sides), or trapezoid (bowed top or bottom) screen distortions. A total of ten adjustments are confirmed by an alphanumeric readout, also located on the front panel.

Precise control of screen colors make it possible for users to take full advantage of the sophisticated features included in today's animation, multimedia, desktop publishing and CAD/CAM/CAE software. In addition, fine adjustments to correct for image distortion allow the user to utilize the entire 15-inch flat screen edge to edge, thus increasing the display area.

By conveniently locating these controls on the front panel, and by providing an LCD display to confirm the exact settings, ETC has provided the user with a level of control previously available only on expensive, high-end monitors.

Kent Huang, president of ETC, said, "ETC is the first manufacturer to offer this high level of front-panel color and image control on a monitor for $719.00. As applications in desktop publishing and CAD/CAM/CAE migrate down from workstations to PCs, users need an economical monitor sophisticated enough to keep up with their software."

Designed for high-resolution color applications running on IBM PC/XT/AT, PS/2 and Apple Macintosh II systems, the monitor features a flat, non-glare screen for reduced geometric distortion, 12 factory-preset resolutions from 640 x 480 up to 1280 x 1024 noninterlaced, auto-scanning from 30KHz to 65KHz for horizontal frequencies, 52Hz to 120Hz for vertical frequencies, a 0.28mm dot pitch and front-panel adjustable controls for power, brightness, contrast, horizontal size and position, vertical size and position, rotation, pincushion, trapezoid, and RGB color control of video (high light) and background (low light).

A low-emission version, the Model CA-1565CPL, is available at a $769.00 list price. This model conforms to the Swedish MPR II guidelines and is aimed at users concerned with very-low and extremely-low electromagnetic emissions.

The monitors are available separately and in OEM quantities as a branded ViewMagic PreciseColor or private-label products, and are backed by a limited two year warranty.

ETC Computer, Inc. is a subsidiary of the ETC Group, which includes three manufacturing firms producing monitors, systems and auxiliary components and supplies. The ETC Group's new, seven-floor, 150,000 square-foot Taiwan facility features ultramodern automated assembly lines with stringent quality control.

ETC Computer monitor products are marketed in the U.S. through its sales and service organization located at 46711 Fremont Blvd., Fremont, CA 94538, telephone 510/226-6250;  fax 510/226-6252. ETC's European sales and service office is located in Germany, telephone 011/49-2151-381122, fax 011/49-2151-391199.


Houghton Mifflin Channel R.E.A.D. Videodiscs
HOUGHTON MIFFLIN ANNOUNCES AVAILABILITY OF CHANNEL R.E.A.D. VIDEODISC SERIES

June 28, 1993 -- Orlando, Fla. -- Today at the National Educational Computing Conference (NECC), Houghton Mifflin announced the availability of the Channel R.E.A.D. Videodisc Series, a Level I program which offers 15 entertaining and dramatic adventures designed to help third through eighth grade students improve reading comprehension and written and oral communication skills.

"My class was enthralled," commented Donna Byerlotzer, 5th grade teacher from Emerson Elementary in Midland, Texas. "I was most pleased at the ease in which the disc contents were adaptable to suit the needs of my two classes. My students can hardly wait to read mysteries from the library, and we're planning to write mysteries of our own!"

In each videodisc, students will explore one literary genre, a major reading strategy and a support skill. The themes and strategies presented not only correlate directly with Houghton Mifflin Reading: The Literature Experience Copyright 1993, but compliment most reading programs used in grades three and up.

Each story centers around the adventures of Rita, a space-age bookmobile, and three young literary heroes, Paige Turner, Theo Saurus and Manuel Scrito. Frequently, these characters will model reading strategies that students will then be asked to practice and apply.

"Most of the time when we watch a movie, the whole class is loud and no one watches it. But when we watched this everyone watched it and no one was loud," said Erin Umberger, 5th grader from Emerson Elementary. "The videodisc puts together the two things I like most, T.V. and reading."

Students at various points in the drama are prompted by the videodisc to stop and review specific skills and strategies in order to help them solve problems -- such as locating the missing mystery writer. The prompting encourages students to ask questions and participate in group discussions.

The Channel R.E.A.D. videodisc series includes the following titles: The Case of the Missing Mystery Writer (Mystery), The Ordinary Princess (Fantasy), Blue Jeans (Nonfiction), License to Drive (Realistic Fiction), And the Winner Is...(Biography), Heroes of the Marsh (Narrative Nonfiction), the Unfinished Trilogy (Serial Fiction), The Role of a Lifetime (Realistic Fiction), Suspended in Space (Suspense), Get the Message (Traditional Tales), The Heights of Adventure (Adventure), Meet the Stars (Realistic Fiction), Rita Rides Again (Personal Narrative), Fax to the Future (History), and The Runaway Robot (Science).

Designed to capture the attention of television and video-literate students, Channel R.E.A.D. incorporates the best of live-action video, computer animation, graphics and still images. To meet the needs of today's diverse student population, Channel R.E.A.D. offers selected narration in both English and Spanish. Selected print materials have also been translated into Spanish.

Channel R.E.A.D. accommodates a variety of teaching and learning styles: from small group to whole class instruction. Since there is no defined instructional sequence to the series, videodiscs can be shared across several intermediate grade levels.

In addition, Channel R.E.A.D. has been chosen by Curriculum Product News District's Choice Awards, Top 100 Products of 1992-93 and the Media & Methods Awards Portfolio Winner.

Houghton Mifflin Company, 222 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116-3764

(617) 351-5000


OmniPage Direct AnyFont OCR Swr for Logitech
Logitech Announces New OCR Power for Hand-Held Scanners

OmniPage Direct AnyFont OCR Software for Logitech Offers Direct Access from Windows Applications; Meets Special Needs of Hand-Held Scanning

Fremont, Calif. -- June 28, 1993 -- Logitech is introducing an OCR (Optical Character Recognition) software package tailored for the ScanMan family of Windows-based handheld scanners. OmniPage Direct AnyFont OCR Software for Logitech uses Caere's AnyFont OCR recognition engine, AnyPage technology, and an OCR utility approach that allows users to scan and recognize text from within virtually any Windows application.

The Logitech version of OmniPage Direct was designed specifically for Logitech by Caere Corporation. Available in July, it will be sold exclusively in conjunction with Windows-based ScanMan hand-held scanners. Various upgrade plans are available for existing Logitech customers with CatchWord Pro, Perceive Personal, CatchWord DOS, or any ScanMan product.

"Our users are increasingly demanding reasonably priced yet highly accurate and complete image-and-text solutions for the hand-held scanning environment," says Patricia Smith, Logitech product manager. "OmniPage Direct AnyFont OCR Software for Logitech offers the power of Caere's recognition technology and useful set of basic tools while leaving the bells and whistles' -- such as spell- and grammar checking, cutting and pasting, and other editing tasks -- to the destination applications. This makes for a product that's highly functional yet very easy to use."

Key Product Features:

* More than 70 pre-registered word processing, desktop publishing, and spreadsheet applications. Instantly registers any additional Windows application for direct access.

* AnyPage technology offers threshold grayscale scanning for optimal image contrast on colored or soiled backgrounds.

* Special tools for hand-held scanning (e.g., column isolation and full-page scanning with Automatic Merge).

* Single-column, full-page, and spreadsheet recognition modes.

* Context-sensitive graphical online help.

* Ability to accept Rich Text Format (RTF) files for font retention.

* Ability to open and recognize existing files and Fine Mode fax documents.

System Requirements:

* IBM-compatible 386 or better computer

* 4 MB RAM with a 4MB swap file minimum. Eight MB RAM recommended

* DOS 3.1 or above

* Microsoft Windows 3.1 running in 386 enhanced mode

* Logitech or other Windows-compatible mouse

* Logitech hand-held scanner

Logitech manufactures and markets "Senseware" -- products designed to give "senses" such as sight, sound, and touch to the computer, making human-to-computer communication more intuitive and natural. Logitech International, the financial holding company for the Logitech Group, is traded publicly in Switzerland on the Zurich and Geneva exchanges. With operational headquarters in Fremont, Calif., the group maintains manufacturing facilities in Fremont, California; Hsinchu, Taiwan, Shanghai, China; and Cork, Ireland; and offices in major cities in the U.S., Europe, and the Far East.

Logitech Inc, 6505 Kaiser Dr, Fremont, CA 94555

510-795-8500;  fax: 510-792-8901


Logitech ScanMan EasyTouch Hand-Held Scanner
Logitech Introduces ScanMan EasyTouch Boardless Hand-Held Grayscale Scanner

"Next Generation" Scanner Features Parallel Port Interface, New Case Design; Includes Caere's OmniPage Direct AnyFont OCR Software for Logitech

Fremont, Calif. -- June 28, 1993 -- Logitech is announcing ScanMan EasyTouch, a boardless, 256 grayscale, Windows-based hand-held scanner. Available in late August at a list price of US$399, the ScanMan EasyTouch package includes Logitech's FotoTouch Version 1.2 Color Image Editing Software and OmniPage Direct AnyFont OCR Software for Logitech, developed by Caere for Logitech scanners and tailored to the special needs of hand-held scanning. The parallel port interface of ScanMan EasyTouch makes scanning available to all users, including those with laptop machines and others who do not wish to open their machines to install hardware.

ScanMan EasyTouch features a totally redesigned case, which reflects Logitech's continuing concern with ergonomic design. Users hold the unit with the hand extended straight out from the wrist, a position which is more natural and comfortable. To facilitate straight, smooth scanning, the main roller is now made of a polycarbon material which can be more precisely machined to perfect roundness.

ScanMan EasyTouch plugs directly into the parallel port of a computer. A special pass-through adaptor permits the user to operate a printer through the same parallel port without disconnecting the scanner. Programmability of the scanner head enables the setting of resolution, scan mode, and contrast through software, resulting in a near-buttonless head (start/stop button only).

The TWAIN-compliant scanning software included with ScanMan EasyTouch contains Logitech's AutoStitch feature, which automatically merges multiple strips to produce images up to 15 inches wide. In addition, this and all other Logitech software for Windows, including FotoTouch Color and OmniPage Direct AnyFont OCR Software for Logitech, now feature an online, context-sensitive graphical help system.

Logitech has announced it will bundle FotoTouch Color Image Editing Software with all its Windows-based scanners. This application, which evolved from the original award-winning FotoTouch software, is both TWAIN-compliant and an OLE (Object Linking and Embedding) server. It features an extensive set of basic editing tools, selection effects, and the ability to open multiple images onscreen and cut and paste among these. In addition, a new feature, printer profiles, has been added. Through printer profiles, FotoTouch Color optimizes tone and contrast for specific printer types and brands.

"Today, only two percent of the installed base of personal computer users own a scanner, so there's a tremendous untapped market out there," says Molly Carlson, Logitech product manager. "We believe the ability to easily integrate images into a document without having to open up their computers or worry about DMA channels and interrupts will help to bring scanning into the mainstream of personal computing. Moreover, the other main market for this product, portable computers, promises to grow at an extremely healthy rate over the next few years."

System Requirements for ScanMan EasyTouch include an IBM-compatible AT with a 386SX processor or above, 4 MB RAM, 5 MB free disk space, DOS 3.1 or higher, a VGA or better graphics card, Microsoft Windows 3.1, and a Logitech or compatible pointing device.

Logitech manufactures and markets "Senseware" -- products designed to give "senses" such as sight, sound, and touch to the computer, making human-to-computer communication more intuitive and natural. Logitech International, the financial holding company for the Logitech Group, is traded publicly in Switzerland on the Zurich and Geneva exchanges. With operational headquarters in Fremont, Calif., the group maintains manufacturing facilities in Fremont, California; Hsinchu, Taiwan; Shanghai, China; and Cork, Ireland; and offices in major cities in the U. S., Europe, and the Far East.

Logitech Inc, 6505 Kaiser Dr, Fremont, CA 94555

510-795-8500;  fax: 510-792-8901


Video VI LabVIEW Video Capture/Dsply/Analysis
VIDEO VI

Video Capture, Display and Analysis VIs for LabVlEW

The Video VI package supports video data acquisition and image manipulation in the LabVlEW environment for the Macintosh. LabVlEW is the graphic and object-oriented instrumentation software from National Instruments. The Video VI package is a cost effective alternative for building systems that require image acquisition, analysis and documentation in process control environments. The integration of visual image data into complex interactive control of equipment is becoming increasingly important in the biomedical and physical sciences.

There are currently over 20 VIs included in the Video VI package. The following is a brief functional description of some of these VIs. Several ready to use demo VIs are included and fully documented in the manual. Additional ready to use demo VIs are continually being added to the package with accompanying documentation on disk.

The Camera VI captures a video frame from the Data Translation's DT2255, QuickCapture card. Each captured frame has a resolution of 640x480 pixels and has an 8 bit depth (256 levels). External triggering is supported.

The Scion Camera VI captures a video frame from the LG3 video digitizer card from Scion Corporation. Each captured frame has a resolution of 640x480 pixels and has an 8 bit depth (256 levels). The LG3 video memory buffer and external triggering is supported.

The Write and Read TIFF VIs allow you to save or open a video image in the standard tagged image file format (TIFF) for use with the Video VI package or in any of the numerous applications that support the TIFF file format.

The Window VI allows you to display a 2-dimensional array of data as an image. It also allows you to perform some basic analysis of the image. The results of the analysis functions are returned to LabVIEW so that they can be displayed, further analyzed or used programmatically for process control within LabVlEW.

The LOAD CLUT VI provides the ability to load a standard "color look up table" containing 256 values. This gives you the ability to map the captured video frame to custom cluts such as 256 gray levels or several color bands. Several example cluts are supplied with the software.

The Threshold Clut VI fills the color look-up table with a single color between defined lower and upper boundaries. The Threshold Clut VI is used to highlight portions of an image that fall within a range of intensity values.

The Simple Camera Demo VI combines some of the Video VIs in order to demonstrate opening an image window, image capture from a video camera using either the Scion LG-3 or the DT-2255 boards, saving and loading of TIFF images from a disk.

The Move & Scale Demo VI illustrates how to programmatically move the image, or enlarge or reduce it within an image window.

The Analysis Demo VI provides a comprehensive demonstration of some of the potential uses of the Video VI package. It offers the ability to perform the capture, load, and save image data functions. It illustrates how to programmatically execute various window functions such as Show Window, Hide Window, Set Title, Load Colors. This VI also demonstrates some of the various image analysis functions such as Complete Histogram, Partial Histogram, Cross Section, Calibrate, Measure Length, Measure Area, and Set Threshold.

The Control Demo VI illustrates how to automatically make cross-section measurements to detect two edges in an image. This VI also demonstrates how to align one edge to another. In this demonstration the edges are created by software generated images. In a real world application the edges could be objects moved in space under LabVIEW control (e.g. by a stepper motor).

Video VI library tools for

-image acquisition and display

-image file storage

-image processing

-extraction of information from images

* Capture live images from supported digitizer boards, multiple

  video channels and external triggering are supported.

* Display images with custom color look up tables.

* Measure the area of a polygonal region.

* Display images in separate windows.

* Enlarge or shrink the image display window either by

  programmatic control or user control.

* Define or move the image window location and size either

  by Programmatic control or user control.

* Move the image within the display window.

* Magnify or reduce a displayed image.

* Display the image resolution.

* Load and save images to disk in 8-bit TIFF format.

* Detect and manage user interactions in an image window

  including selection of a point, a line, a rectangle or polygon.

* Provides the ability to programmatically select any defined

  point, line or rectangular region for data extraction, image

  processing, display or archiving

* Calibrate the image pixel dimensions in real spatial units

  (e.g 11, mm, inches, feet etc.).

* Measurements and graphic displays indicate calibrated

  dimensions.

* Measure the distance between two points in an image

  (i.e. object dimensions or distance between

* Calculate and display a intensity histogram of a selected

  image region.

* Extracted data are returned as standard LabVIEW

  1 or 2 dimensional arrays.

* Access to the LabVIEW Advanced Analysis Library for further

  processing of image data.

New Features available with the release of version 1.04 provided at no additional cost.

* Overlay test on an image.

* Overlay draw style graphics on an image.

* Drawing of calibrated single or multiple rulers or reticles

  in the image window.

* Histogram equalization for contrast enhancement.

* Print images with test or drawn graphic overlays.

* Print outs initiated by user or program control.

Minimum System Requirements

* Macintosh II or Quadra systems

* 5 MB of RAM minimum

* Hard disk

* LabVIEW 2 software program

GTFS Inc, 2455 Bennett Valley Rd, #100C, Santa Rosa, CA 95404

(707) 579-1733;   fax: (707) 578-3195


MST to Distribute ViaGrafix Training Videos
MST inks pact with ViaGrafix

June 29, 1993 -- Laguna Hills, CA human resources management software developer MST Software announced today that MST had been selected as distributor of ViaGrafix software training video tapes for the personnel management industry.

ViaGrafix produces a line of over 150 VHS video tapes designed to train PC users on a variety of software products. Titles include, "Learning DOS 6.0" (Introduction and Advanced), "Getting Started with Windows 3.1," "Introduction to PageMaker 5.0," "WordPerfect Secrets and Timesavers," and "Quicken 6.0, Quick and Easy." Virtually all videos come with a learning diskette which supplements the video.

"We are delighted to have been selected by ViaGrafix to distribute their outstanding line of training products," said Patrick Dowd, president of MST. "Our customers have been asking for additional human resource management-related products from MST. The addition of ViaGrafix video training tapes will substantially broaden our line of product offerings. Our first promotion will be a '6 tapes for the price of 5' offer to run through September 30, 1993."

In addition to its flagship PERSONNEL MASTER III human resources management package, MST also distributes Concentric Data's R&R Report Writer and Banner Blue Software's OrgPlus Advanced to personnel managers.

MST Software, 25541 Indian Hill Ln #Q, Laguna Hills, CA 92653

(714) 837-3664


Artisoft Nationwide Reseller Training Centers
ARTISOFT ANNOUNCES OPENING OF NATIONWIDE RESELLER TRAINING CENTERS

Basic, Advanced Training Covers Artisoft's Complete Networking Product Line

(TUCSON, Ariz.--June 21, 1993)--Artisoft announced today that it has established regional business centers for product training in three major cities across the United States. In addition to the corporate training center in Tucson, Arizona, offices in Westchester, Illinois and Irvine, California are currently in operation and an office in Westborough, Massachusetts is scheduled to be fully operational by late July. These three new business centers will provide product training locations, demonstration facilities and offices for local area sales staff.

"The centers will be a great addition to Artisoft's concentrated efforts in supporting its sales channel," said Dave Hallmen, Artisoft's Vice President of Sales & Marketing. "With the valuable training courses, resellers will receive a comprehensive overview of Artisoft's complete award-winning product line as well as highlevel training on its multiplatform networking products."

Artisoft will offer five training courses for resellers at each of the four office locations. These courses include one- and two-day workshops and use multimedia presentations, lectures and hands-on exercises to train resellers on the LANtastic Local Area Network and other Artisoft networking products:

* Selling and Installing Artisoft Products, course fee: $249

* LANtastic for Macintosh, course fee: $329

* LANtastic for TCP/IP, course fee: $379

* Planning & Installing the LANtastic Network Operating System,

  course fee: $299

* Optimizing & Supporting the LANtastic Network Operating System,

  course fee: $599

Artisoft Five Star Connectivity Resellers and Artisoft Authorized Five Star Resellers may apply their ArtiBuck co-op program points for reimbursement of these training costs. For a comprehensive schedule or description of these courses, contact Artisoft at 800/846-9726.

These regional business centers will be staffed by Artisoft's Business Development Group (BDG) representatives and Product Training Specialists, highly-trained sales and technical personnel who are stationed across the country to assist computer resellers in the sales and support of Artisoft products.

Artisoft develops and manufactures a full line of innovative, cost-effective network communication solutions including the award-winning LANtastic Local Area Network. Recognized as the leader in peer-to-peer networking for DOS and Windows environments, the LANtastic network also offers multiplatform connectivity solutions for NetWare, TCP/IP and Macintosh systems. It allows up to 500 users on one network to connect and share information and peripheral devices such as printers, hard drives and CD-ROMs. Artisoft maintains nine international offices and distributes the LANtastic network and its other connectivity products in over 70 countries worldwide. For more information about Artisoft or its product line, contact Artisoft, Inc. at 2202 N. Forbes Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85745. Sales 800/233-5564, ext. 611. Corporate 602/670-7000. Fax 602/670-7101


Aldus PageMaker Garners 3 Product Awards
Aldus PageMaker demonstrates continued popularity, garners three product awards

SEATTLE, June 14, 1993--Aldus PageMaker won three Reader's Choice awards from two of the industry' s trade publications during the Windows World/Spring COMDEX trade show recently held in Atlanta. Byte readers selected both PageMaker 4.0 for Microsoft Windows and PageMaker 4.2 for the Apple Macintosh. In the Windows Magazine poll, PageMaker 4.0 for Windows captured more than twice as many votes as its competitors.

This is the third consecutive year that Byte readers have chosen PageMaker for both Macintosh and Windows, and the second consecutive year the product has been selected by the readers of Windows Magazine.

"It's very gratifying to know that PageMaker, the world's leading desktop publishing program, continues to be so highly valued by the readers of Byte and Windows Magazine," said Lori Birtley, Aldus PageMaker senior product marketing manager. "And with the imminent shipment of PageMaker 5.0, we will continue to provide people with the competitive features and support they have come to expect over the years."

During the selection process, each publication receives input from its readers to determine which products will be recognized for excellence. Product winners are selected on the basis of technological innovation, benchmark performance, quality, user-friendliness, and value to its customers.

Aldus Corporation (NASDAQ:ALDC) creates computer software solutions that help people throughout the world effectively communicate information and ideas.

Aldus Corp, 411 First Ave South, Seattle, WA 98104-2871

206-622-5500


Ohio State to use MF/GAS in Molding Research
OHIO STATE TO USE MF/GAS IN FIRST UNIVERSITY-BASED RESEARCH ON GAS-ASSISTED MOLDING IN NORTH AMERICA.

(Shelton, Connecticut -- June 29, 1993) The Ohio State University Engineering Research Center for Net Shape Manufacturing has announced that it will be using Moldflow's MF/Gas software in the first university-based research on gas assisted injection molding to be performed in North America. The goal of the project is to establish an efficient, reliable and systematic experimental methodology to analyze the gas-assisted molding process. A team led by Timothy Zheng, Research Fellow, plans to use the Moldflow package to test and verify two phases of gas assist research -- industry experiments and laboratory experiments. In laboratory experiments, a Cinpres II gas injection unit will be used. It will be connected to a Cincinnati Milacron 75 metric ton All-Electric Injection Molding Machine and a specially designed testing mold with a large glass window to observe the gas flow phenomena inside the cavity. MF/Gas will be used to verify the results recently obtained by the team during a molding trial at a member company. It will also be used to help design the next set of trials at this member company as well as in-house laboratory experiments due to begin this summer. Validation of the software with experimental results will help to establish fundamental principles and guidelines for industrial applications of this exciting new technology.

The MF/Gas program is designed to simulate and analyze the emerging technology of Gas Injection Molding (GIM). By allowing engineers to easily determine the molding performance of a design without building a prototype mold, the new software package improves product performance, reduces scrap, shortens design leadtimes and lowers design and manufacturing costs. The new software package enables the analysis of component design and processing conditions and the effects these have on product performance. Important questions are answered, such as: How far and in which direction will the gas flow? Will the gas blow through the polymer melt? What will the residual wall thickness be? Are the polymer and gas being injected in the optimum locations? The effects of design changes can be analyzed prior to commencement of tool construction to avoid costly delays and rework.

Gas injection molding is a process which involves a controlled injection of an inert gas into molten polymer. The gas creates hollow channels while pushing the material that previously occupied the channel into the walls. Generally, the channels are contained within larger-than-normal ribs. The gas pressurizes the molding while it cools. The benefits of the process include reducing warpage, residual stresses and sink marks. Any conventional molding machine can be adapted for gas injection molding using a portable conversion unit with gas connections to the mold.

MF/Gas was developed in conjunction with Cinpres, Ltd. who are the world leaders in gas injection molding. The development has resulted from a combination of the Cinpres processing expertise and Moldflow's expertise in CAE and materials testing. Other Moldflow products include: MF/FLOW -- which predicts flow patterns and characteristics within the mold; MF/COOL --- which analyzes the vital role of heat exchange and temperature control in the mold; and MF/WARP software which analyzes the net distortion of the actual molded part and helps determine its mechanical properties.

The Engineering Research Center for Net Shape Manufacturing at Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, is a partnership for global competitiveness between Ohio State University, industry and government which in areas of net shape manufacturing develops concepts and transfers them to industry through reports, seminars and educated and trained personnel. Since its start in May 1986, the activities of the ERC for Net Shape Manufacturing (ERC/NSM), funded by National Science Foundation (NSF), have been planned towards achieving the goals set by the program office, namely: 1) Develop engineering knowledge in all areas critical to U.S. competitiveness 2) emphasize systems and cross-disciplinary aspects of engineering 3) pioneer new approaches to technology transfer between industry and university 4) provide innovative opportunities for faculty/industry cooperation 5) inspire commitment from industry.

Moldflow, 2 Corporate Dr, Suite 232, Shelton, CT 06484

203-925-0552;  fax: 203-925-1175


LabVIEW Brochure for Software Selection
New Brochure Helps Users Differentiate Between LabVIEW Graphical Software and LabWindows Automatic Code-Generation Software for Instrumentation Applications

July 1, 1993 -- Austin, TX - National Instruments announced today a new four-page, full-color brochure, "How to Select Your Instrumentation Software," which highlights LabVIEW graphical programming software for Windows-based PCs, Sun SPARCstations, and Macintosh computers and LabWindows automatic code-generation software for DOS-based PCs. The free brochure assists engineers and scientists in determining their needs, then selecting the software that best suits those needs for automating their instrumentation applications.

LabVIEW and LabWindows simplify the development of application programs without sacrificing flexibility and ease of use. With these software packages, users can quickly and easily build custom display panels to present data with a wide variety of graphs, strip charts, and controls. Data acquisition (DAQ) libraries control over 300 GPIB, VXI, and RS-232 instruments, as well as the company's plug-in DAQ, digital signal processing, and signal conditioning hardware.

Although both packages have similar capabilities, they differ in programming technology. LabVIEW is an icon-based, graphical programming system that uses dataflow programming technology. LabWindows is based on industry-standard programming languages with interactive code generation and built-in debugging capabilities for traditional C and BASIC programmers.

For More Information For more information about the LabVIEW or LabWindows software, or to receive the free brochure, "How to Select Your Instrumentation Software," please contact National Instruments at 6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Austin, IX 78730-5039, (512) 794-0100. Call toll free in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 433-3488. Fax: (512) 794-8411.


Free Software Explains Analysis Techniques
New Free Software Explains Advanced Analysis Techniques

July 1, 1993 -- Austin, TX - National Instruments announced today a new free interactive software tutorial that educates users about data analysis and demonstrates advanced analysis techniques for use with LabVIEW graphical programming software or LabWindows automatic code-generating software. Analysis Advisor is an easy-to-use package that guides users through analysis examples with on-line text instructions and describes the important characteristics and benefits of each analysis technique or function.

Analysis Advisor includes four tutorial sessions - Digital Signal Processing, Statistics, Simulation, and Time-Domain Analysis - with detailed demonstrations in each session. A fifth session, Utilities, includes LabVIEW analysis computational benchmarks that run on the PC and a summary of add-on Analysis Toolkits for LabVlEW and LabWindows. Users can run benchmarks to time an FFT, sine wave generation, exponential fit, and other analysis functions. For example, LabVIEW running on a 486 50 MHz PC can perform an FFT in approximately 20 ms. The speed of compiled LabWindows code is approximately the same as LabVIEW. Analysis Advisor also includes a demonstration of how to build an analysis application with LabVlEW and includes an overview of LabWindows analysis capabilities for C and BASIC programmers.

Analysis Advisor requires a 386/33 PC with a 387 coprocessor (486 recommended) running Microsoft Windows Version 3.1, 8 MB memory, and a VGA or Super VGA video adapter.

Price and Availability

Analysis Advisor will be available in July. For your free copy or for more information, contact National Instruments, 6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Austin, TX 78730-5039, (512) 794-0100. Call toll free in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 433-3488. Telex: 756737 NAT INST AUS. Fax: (512) 794-8411.


Forex 32-bit/50MHz VESA SCSI Host Adapter
FOREX INTRODUCES 32-BIT/50 MHz HIGH SPEED VESA SCSI HOST ADAPTER

At a highly competitive MSRP of $240, FOREX's adapter offers the leading price/performance VESA SCSI Host Adapter.

SAN JOSE, Calif., July 7, 1993 -- FOREX Computer Corporation, today announced the release of their 32-bit Bus Mastering VESA SCSI Host Adapter: The FR600A VL BusMaster. Retail shipments of the 32-bit/50MHz VESA local bus master began on July 1, at a suggested retail price of $240.

FOREX's SCSI adapter utilizes a unique, advanced chipset and proves to be the most highly integrated 32-bit VESA bus adapter on the market. Unlike competitive offerings FOREX's VL BusMaster incorporates a local SRAM significantly increasing the speed/performance of the board. With a SCSI-2 Data Transfer Rate (DTR) of 10MB/Sec. and a VL Bus DTR of 100 MB/Sec., the adapter makes for an ideal controller for the network server environment.

Unique features integrated into the bus master adapter include the combination of the high-speed SRAM and board level protocol providing nearly 30% increase in DTR at the same CPU speed, especially in CAD/CAM and UNIX environments. In addition, a 32-bit interface delivers the high performance required for most multimedia applications. Auto detecting and adjusting for different types of Hard Disk Translation Tables are two additional features not found in many adapters available on the market. Ranked high on users features lists, auto adjusting allows a drive to be moved or re-connected to a new system without having to be reformatted each time.

Supporting popular ASPI-based SCSI driver and application developers like Corel, the VL BusMaster becomes a de facto host adapter able to fit into any application environment or market. As like many of the ASPI compliant software vendors, the VL BusMaster supports major operating systems including Windows, Windows NT, DOS, Novell, SCO UNIX and the soon to be released Univel. Taking advantage of the many high performance SCSI devices available on the market, the FR600A VL BusMaster supports drives including hard disk, CD-ROM, removable-media storage peripherals, magneto-optical subsystems, WORM, tape and DAT among others. True to the SCSI standard, FOREXs VESA adapter enables systems to interface with up to seven daisy-chained storage devices.

FOREX recognizes users' needs for compatibility and responds with offering fully ASPI compliant hardware and software along with an extensive qualification program to assure broad compatibility across the growing range of system configurations and storage devices. The model comes with a comprehensive one-year warranty including technical support and a 24 hour response program for replacement units.

The VL BusMaster will be sold through distributors, as well as, OEMs, VARs, system integrators and PC products resellers. Suggested retail price is a very competitive $240, including software.

Founded in 1990, FOREX is a privately held company specializing in the development and manufacture of board level SCSI controllers and chipset I.C. products for the system integrator, OEM and VAR PC market. Headquartered in San Jose, CA, FOREX continues to introduce new, high-end, price/performance products for the ever-changing PC products market. FOREX products are sold worldwide through a network of distributors and OEMs.

Forex Computer Corp, 2121 Ringwood Ave, San Jose, CA 95131

408-955-9280;  fax: 408-955-9611


PC-Translator for Dutch & Norwegian to English
June 25 1993 -- THE WOODLANDS, -- Linguistic Products has announced two new additions to their popular PC-Translator translation software. English-to-Dutch and Norwegian-to-English are now available.

"Because we are driven by our client's needs," explains George Mallard, Managing Partner. "we added these new language pairs to achieve our ultimate goal of all European languages." Dutch and Norwegian are the eighth and ninth languages in the PC-Translator line. The others are Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Danish and Swedish. Each software package contains one language direction, such as English-to-Spanish or French-to-English. English-to-Norwegian will be available soon.

PC-Translator works on the PC and translates sentence by sentence, instead of the more literal word for word translation. Although the user must know the target language, only basic grammar knowledge is needed. PC-Translator allows users to customize the program by creating unlimited word and phrase dictionaries.

One of the most popular features of PC-Translator is the full compatibility with WordPerfect and Microsoft Word. The format of these documents is totally preserved in the output. This saves time for translating forms or documents with several fonts, graphics or tables.

PC-Translator uses industry standard extended ASCII for the dictionary file format. This makes the dictionaries easy to modify with most popular word processors and databases. The software's creative use of "Wildcard" phrases helps master the problems of gender and verb conjugation in the conversion of English to other languages.

Linguistic Product's unique customer satisfaction policy continues with the new offerings including free telephone support and one free update.

Linguistic Products Customer Service

PO Box 8263, The Woodlands, TX 77387

Tel: 713-298-2565;   Fax: 713-298-1911


1st Award for Foreign Language Translation Swr
First Award for Foreign Language Translation Software won by PC-Translator.

June 25, 1993 -- Linguistic Products of the Woodlands TX received the WordPerfect Magazine's READER'S CHOICE AWARD on May 25, 1993. PC-Translator by Linguistic Products was one of forty products chosen by the readers of WordPerfect Magazine for superior performance. This award is significant because it was the first published competition between language translation software vendors based entirely on user's opinions.

The company founders, George Mallard and Ralph Dessau were honored during the award dinner held at the Atlanta Hyatt Regency. Brent Garlick and Lisa Bearnson of WordPerfect Corporation presented the award.

Mr. Mallard stated, "WordPerfect Magazine has always been responsive to their readers. The growing need for WordPerfect users to internationalize their documents was recognized by the editors. Seeking solutions, they surveyed their readers and published the results. We knew our product was superior, now we can prove it!"

Mr. Dessau remarked, "Any company today wanting European business must create their documentation in multiple languages. The readers of WordPerfect Magazine clearly feel the most effective system for producing these documents is WordPerfect combined with our translation tools."

Linguistic Products Customer Service

PO Box 8263, The Woodlands, TX 77387

Tel: 713-298-2565;   Fax: 713-298-1911


MergeMaster v2.0 for DOS & Windows Databases
Stairway Software Inc. Announces Version 2.0 of MergeMaster

Now Supports Popular DOS and Windows Databases.

(June 30, 1993) - MergeMaster 2.0, a major upgrade to the popular software utility that makes database information available to word processors, is now shipping from Stairway Software Inc.

MergeMaster 2.0 works with both Windows and DOS versions of the most popular word processors and database managers, including WordPerfect, Word, dBASE, and Paradox.

MergeMaster 2.0 opens up new opportunities for both the business and home office by making it easy to produce personalize letters, billing statements, reports, sales literature, membership solicitations, and more. MergeMaster eliminates the frustrating, complex, and error-prone process of converting database information to a word processor's specific merge file format. With a menu-driven interface and context sensitive help, MergeMaster 2.0 provides a quick, easy and accurate solution for producing secondary merge files (called merge data files by some word processors).

MergeMaster allows the user to select a database file and then choose the fields to be translated. With Version 2.0 the user can then translate those fields from every record, or from a user-defined range of records. Then the user simply selects their word processor and the secondary merge file is automatically created.

For more advanced applications, MergeMaster 2.0 combines ease-of-use with a powerful record selection capability. Logical operators allow the user to easily define record selection criteria to target any cross-section of the database. Supported operators include: =, < >, >, > =, <, < =, AND, OR, text string and text substring, where text substring is any occurrence of a text string in a field. By using logical operators, the user can, for example, target a sales letter to "all clients over 30 who live in Florida and purchased in the past twelve months".

MergeMaster 2.0 includes the added benefit of automating repeated translations with script file processing. This eliminates the need to repeatedly enter file names, selection criteria and word processor formats. Instead, the user just executes a script and MergeMaster 2.0 automatically creates the secondary merge file using the selections saved from a previous session. Scripts can be executed from MergeMaster's simple and intuitive menus as well as from the command line.

Additional new MergeMaster 2.0 capabilities include:

* Support for latest releases of popular databases.

* Support for the new WordPerfect 6.0.

* Page Up/Page Down for file selection.

* New date formats.

MergeMaster now supports: WordPerfect 4.2/5.0/5.1/6.0, Microsoft Word (comma and tab formats), WordStar 3.0 and above, XyWrite III, Volkswriter 3, IBM Displaywrite 3/4, PFS:Professional Write, and five common ASCII formats.

MergeMaster 2.0 also supports the following databases: all DOS and Windows versions of dBASE and Paradox including 4.0, all DOS and Windows version of FoxBase, FoxBase+, and FoxPro, all DOS and Windows versions of Clipper, including 5.x. MergeMaster also supports any other database capable of producing a dBASE or Paradox file format such as Alpha 3/Alpha 4, SBT Accounting, Champion Accounting, Real World Accounting, and AccountMate.

MergeMaster 2.0 is published by Stairway Software Inc., makers of ScreenExtender for WordPerfect. MergeMaster 2.0 can be purchased directly for $79.95. Stairway products are also sold through standard retail channels and are distributed by Kenfil Distribution and Software Resource. Upgrades to version 2.0 are available for $29.95 only through Stairway Software.

Stairway Software Inc.

913 First Colonial Rd, Suite 102, Virginia Beach, VA 23454

(800) 782-4792 (U.S.A.), (800) 992-4792 (Canada) or

(804) 437-7000, FAX (804) 437-7077


SyDOS Intros The Executive CD
SyDOS INTRODUCES THE EXECUTIVE CD

The Professional Multimedia and Photo CD-ROM Solution

BOCA RATON, FL (June 29, 1993) SyDOS, a division of SyQuest Technology and leader in the removable storage industry, announced today the addition of a new member to its CD-ROM product line. The Executive CD joins the SyDOS Personal CD (low cost parallel port solution for ease of installation and use with notebooks and laptops), and other SyDOS state-of-the-art family of removable cartridge disk drives.

The Executive CD is an external CD-ROM drive which is MPC Compliant and Kodak Photo CD (Multisession) Compatible and is ideal for business and personal use. The Executive CD combines low cost with high performance and high quality to provide an external CD-ROM drive that supports both simple and sophisticated multimedia CD-ROM applications.

The Executive CD's high-speed interface complies with the Multimedia (MPC) standards and supports advanced multimedia graphics, audio and full-motion videos. It is also compatible with Kodak Photo CD (Multisession) disks and comes with Kodak Photo CD Access software allowing the user to view, crop and work with photo CD images. The Executive CD can be used with virtually any DOS- or Windows-based desktop PC.

"The Executive CD is ideal for business and personal use combining low cost with high performance that supports both simple as well as sophisticated multimedia CD-ROM applications," notes Linda Haury, SyDOS vice president of marketing.

"The Executive CD is a natural complement to SyDOS' Personal CD. The Executive CD with High Performance PC-bus interface card connects directly to the bus of the computer system while the Personal CD with its fixed parallel port makes it easy for users of notebooks and laptops who don't have an available slot in their computers. Now the notebook and laptop users have a CD-ROM solution in the Personal CD while the desktop user who demands MPC compliance and Photo CD have a similar low cost, high performance CD solution in the Executive CD" adds Haury.

Software Distribution Made Easy

Because many software applications are becoming too large and impractical for floppy disks, CD-ROM technology is rapidly gaining in popularity among software publishers for the distribution of software applications and data. The Executive CD allows the user to utilize software distributed on the CD-ROM format and is more efficient than installing numerous floppy disks. It also affords the user increased memory capacity over their PC's resident hard drive.

Provides Professionals Unlimited Multimedia Applications

The Executive CD affords the professional user access to virtually thousands of multimedia titles including graphic applications, reference libraries, clip art libraries, full motion video and audio packages. The Executive CD along with the Kodak Photo CD technology can be used to produce impressive professional business presentations, multimedia publishing, image data bases, as well as digital slide shows and photo albums that allow you to view, crop and work with photo CD images.

Complete Package and Competitively Priced

With a suggested list price of $550, the Executive CD provides high performance with the added benefits of increased storage and portability at a reasonable cost. The Executive CD is top-loading for easy CD access, eliminating the requirement for a special caddy which can be easily damaged or misplaced. It comes complete with the CD-ROM drive, Kodak Photo CD access software, high-performance PC-bus interface card, easy-to-use installation software, cabling, step-by-step instructions, and a full l-year warranty.

The Executive CD also offers the user the option of digital stereo sound by simply plugging headphones or speakers (available separately) into the auxiliary stereo jack on the back of the unit. In addition, special software lets the user select and play individual audio tracks.

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 products, 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 PUMA 105 and the MARLIN 105i, external and internal 3.5" 105MB removable cartridge disk drives respectively 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 with a fixed parallel port adaptor for ease of installation which may be purchased as a stand-alone product or bundled with CorelDRAW version 3.0 software. The Personal CD is also offered as a bundle with Novell Netware 4.0.

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 1,000,000 disk drives and over 5 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


WinPak Windows Screen Saver Package
RELEASE Rhode Island Soft Systems, Inc. releases " WinPak"

Rhode Island Soft Systems has released its WinPak collection -- three volumes each containing unique Windows screen saver modules, TrueType fonts, and Icons. This inexpensive Windows product will bring hours of enjoyment to Windows users who like their systems to come to life both when working and while they are idle.

WinPak includes the features one would expect from a quality Windows screen saver:

* An easy to use "setup" utility that helps automate installation

* Full integration with the Windows desktop means easy setup

  for users who like to frequently change their screen savers

* WinPak modules fully support encrypted password protection as

  implemented in Windows

* Unique naming conventions allow users to easily locate and

  distinguish WinPak screen saver modules from other modules

* Six WinPak modules are included with each volume, each using

  quality graphics and animation to liven one's desktop

* Imagine! 200 icons ship with each volume of WinPak. Icons are

  conveniently stored within two simple .DLL files to help keep

  directories neat and orderly

* Four TrueType fonts are also included with each WinPak

  volume. These fonts will help give any document a look of

  distinction.

* Conveniently creates a program group containing icons for

  easy access to on-line documentation

WinPak provides the screen blanking features Windows users have come to expect, and more! The WinPak products will help turn the average Windows desktop into a source of humor and fun. The ease with which the product is installed is amazing, and the enjoyment one will receive from it in the months to come is tremendous.

Cost -- $19.95 per volume. This deluxe package includes six screen saver modules, four TrueType fonts, 200 Icons, and user documentation. As a special offer, order WinPak #1 and #2 for $39.90, and receive WinPak #3 absolutely free! All orders add $5.00 shipping and handling.

Orders -- U.S. Mail, or call toll free: 1-800-959-7477. A FAX is also available: 1-401-658-4632. VISA/MC/AmEx/Discover welcomed. Site licenses/volume discounts are available.

Support -- Minimum one year of unlimited voice/fax support.

Refunds -- 30-day money back guarantee, no questions asked.

Rhode Island Soft Systems Inc

PO Box 748, Woonsocket, RI 02895

401-658-4632 (voice/fax); 401-658-3465 (BBS); CIS: 73770,1633


US Robotics Moves Toward ISO 9000 Standard
U.S. ROBOTICS ANNOUNCES MOVE TOWARD ISO 9000 STANDARD;

PREPARES FOR YEAR-END CERTIFICATION

SKOKIE, Ill. -- July 1, 1993 -- U.S. Robotics, Inc. today announced it has begun the process to attain ISO 9000 registration. The company expects to be prepared for ISO 9002 approval in December, 1993, and ISO 9001 approval in 1994.

ISO (International Standards Organization) is an organization that sets worldwide standards, including the ISO 9000 quality requirements. The ISO 9000 standard is made up of five documents (ISO 9000-9004) that define quality systems of varying scope. ISO 9002, to which U.S. Robotics expects to conform by year-end, deals with quality assurance in production and installation. ISO 9001 is a more comprehensive standard, applying to quality assurance in design/development, production, installation and servicing; U.S. Robotics expects to meet ISO 9001 requirements in 1994.

"ISO 9000 registration will help us grow our business," said Ross Manire, U.S. Robotics senior vice president, finance and operations, and CFO. "Certification is fast becoming a requirement for doing business internationally. Additionally, our major domestic customers want to see ISO 9000 registration, just as we want our own vendors to be registered. "

As U.S. Robotics expands its presence in high-end data communications markets, ISO 9000 registration becomes critical, especially in the data center and RBOC (Regional Bell Operating Company) arenas. Regulatory agencies, such as the BABT (United Kingdom) and TUV Rhineland (Germany) also require quality systems in compliance with the ISO 9000 standards to meet the strict requirements for international approvals.

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, Illinois. U.S. Robotics owns and operates U.S. Robotics Ltd. in Slough, England, U.S. Robotics, s.a. in Lille, France and P.N.B., s.a. based in Suresnes, 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


HyperBole Debuts 3D Interactive Movie Engine
HYPERBOLE STUDIOS DEBUTS 3-D INTERACTIVE MOVIE ENGINE

"VirtualCinema" Explodes Barriers of Traditional Interactive Media

July 2, 1993 -- (HOUSTON, TX) - HyperBole Studios has announced the birth of VirtualCinema, a software engine which HyperBole will use to develop the world's first interactive, three-dimensional films. These films, which will come out on CD-ROM for both Macintosh and IBM-compatible MPC platforms, will be distributed through Media Vision.

"VirtualCinema represents the ultimate synthesis of film and the novel" said Greg Roach, artistic director of HyperBole Studios. "Until now, so-called interactive films were not really films, but rather video games and animations. VirtualCinema combines close-ups of live actors with 360-degree perspectives of the environment and access to the internal thoughts and memories of the characters.

"There is nothing more compelling than live actors," continued Roach. "VirtualCinema takes the familiar look and pace of traditional movies, then lets one proceed at one's own pace, repeat sections, go off on tangents, just like a novel. It's a true hybrid of the two art forms, with the third ingredient of interactivity."

HyperBole will debut its first interactive film using VirtualCinema this fall, with shipping in the MPC format by Christmas. Other titles will follow in 1994, with interactive films planned in several genres, including science fiction, serious drama and comedy. "We plan to really have fun with the interactive comedy," said Roach.

VirtualCinema Announcement Concurrent With Screen Actors Guild Agreement

HyperBole recently made Hollywood history with its signing of the industry's first interactive performance agreement through the Screen Actors Guild. HyperBole's contract with the 30 actors the company used in its first, as yet untitled, science fiction movie has since been used by four other multimedia producers.

"Interactive films are very different than traditional movies and must be treated as such by attorneys, accountants and film studios," said Halle Eavelyn, president of HyperBole Studios. "Actors take us very seriously when we ask them if they want to be involved in interactive cinema now or be replaced by non-human 'virtual actors' later."

HyperBole Studios is an award-winning publisher of interactive titles on CD-ROM. The company's first effort, The Madness of Roland, and its upcoming title, Portals, have won more than a dozen major awards collectively, including two InVision Awards and Best of Show awards at the QuickTime Movie Festival and QuickTime Film Festival.

Greg Roach, artistic director of HyperBole Studios, has been called "the Steven Spielberg of multimedia" and is considered one of the leading experts on the arts and multimedia, as well as a pioneer in the development of new interactive programming and creative techniques. Roach also teaches interactive filmmaking classes at San Francisco State University and the American Film Institute. Both Eavelyn and Roach worked as actors, directors and producers in traditional film and theater before forming HyperBole Studios in 1990.

Media Vision, of Fremont, California, is one of the world's leading manufacturers of multimedia hardware products, including MPC upgrade kits. Its Pro AudioSpectrum sound board is one of the leading standards for sound cards, and its Pro MovieSpectrum motion digital video product is cutting edge product for the development Of movies on the PC.

HyperBole Studios, 1412 West Alabama, Houston, TX 77006

713-529-9696


Shiva Upgrades FastPath 5
Shiva Corporation Ships Upgrade to the FastPath 5

K-STAR 9.2 is First Product to Implement IP Tunneling Based on New "Dr. Pepper" Specification

Burlington, MA--June 28, 1993 -- Shiva Corporation, the leading supplier of remote networking and internetworking communications products, today announced K-STAR 9.2, a software upgrade kit for the FastPath 5, the best-selling LocalTalk-to-Ethernet gateway. K-STAR 9.2 is the first product to feature TunnelTalk, Shiva's implementation of the "Dr. Pepper" specification for IP tunneling.

Targeted to network managers with large internetworks, the K-STAR 9.2 release features TunnelTalk and other enhancements to help users maximize their investment in the FastPath router line. With an estimated 60,000 installations worldwide, the FastPath router is viewed as a mission-critical part of enterprise networks.

TunnelTalk links AppleTalk networks over TCP/IP based on the "Dr. Pepper" specification. "Dr. Pepper" is a wide area networking specification for encapsulating AppleTalk over IP networks. "Dr. Pepper" was developed jointly by the founding members of the AppleTalk Networking Forum (ANF). The ANF includes Apple Computer and internetworking vendors, including Shiva, Cisco, Wellfleet, Novell and 3Com.

TunnelTalk is an IP tunneling routing protocol that encapsulates AppleTalk traffic in IP and exchanges routing information. TunnelTalk lets network managers connect AppleTalk internetworks using FastPaths through IP-only routers, simply by entering the address of the other FastPath. K-STAR 9.2 also provides network managers with zone and device filtering, improved monitoring, better SNMP management, added DECnet management, and reduced traffic for routing across wide-area network connections. On June 28, Shiva will submit TunnelTalk to the ANF for review.

"The improved FastPath 5 will be ideal for large-site management and wide area network routing through IP internets. This upgrade demonstrates Shiva's commitment to supporting our FastPath customers," said Dan Schwinn, president of Shiva Corp.

Shiva's FastPath 5 is a multi-protocol LocalTalk-to-Ethernet gateway that routes AppleTalk Phase 1 and 2, TCP/IP, DECnet, IPTalk and now TunnelTalk. It comes with Shiva's Net Manager software, which lets users configure and manage all their FastPaths from one location on the network. The FastPath 5 provides centralized management in a 19-inch rack environment. FastPath is the de facto standard for AppleTalk-to-Ethernet routing, with an estimated 56 percent of the market.

New Features

In addition to the tunneling capability, K-STAR 9.2 includes the following new features which simplify network management:

Zone filtering--allows network managers to configure which zones LocalTalk users can access and designate which zones are exported through IP tunnels.

Device filtering--enables network managers to configure which devices are "advertised" through the FastPath's different ports. Ports include: EtherTalk Phase 1, EtherTalk Phase 2, IPTalk, IP tunnel connections and LocalTalk.

SNMP community table--up to six communities can be configured with varying access capabilities, including: No Access, Read Only, Clear Stats and Configure.

UDP Time Server--enables network managers to configure which time server provides the FastPath timing information.

Syslogging--allows set up of a syslog host for FastPath log information to be stored.

Log message filtering--screens status messages, such as network status and DECnet adjacency messages.

Improved DECnet management--eases DECnet troubleshooting by providing node name database support and support of common NCP commands including: show known nodes, show exec statistics, show adjacent nodes and loop node.

Pricing and Availability

The K-STAR 9.2 Upgrade Kit for the FastPath 5 and FastPath 5 will be available directly from Shiva and through distributors on June 28. The suggested retail price is $199; Shiva FastPath 5 Premium Support Program subscribers will receive the Upgrade Kit for free. To order, customers should call (800) 458-3550 or (617) 270-8500.

Founded in 1987, Shiva Corporation is a leading supplier of remote networking and internetworking products. According to International Data Corporation (Framingham, MA), Shiva is the leading AppleTalk internetworking vendor, with an estimated 56 percent of the market.

Shiva Corporation, Northwest Park, 63 Third Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803, tel. (800) 458-3550 or (617) 270-8500; fax (617) 270-8852.


Revell-Monogram European Racers with CD-ROM
BUILD THE CAR OF YOUR DREAMS, THEN RACE IT!!

REVELL-MONOGRAM INTRODUCES EUROPEAN RACERS -- THE FIRST TITLE IN ITS POWER MODELER CD-ROM SOFTWARE LINE.

Revell-Monogram, the world's leading manufacturer of plastic model kits, announced the June release of European Racers, the first title in its revolutionary new Power Modeler CD-ROM software line.

European Racers combines a Porsche 911 Slant Nose model kit with multimedia CD-ROM software that shows how to build models of four super-hot European racers -- the powerful Porsche 911 Slant Nose, the turbo-charged Bugatti EB110, the Italdesign Nazca M12, and the aggressive Lamborghini Countach -- then lets you race them in a challenging and realistic road and track race.

The model building portion of Power Modeler software features step-by-step 3-dimensional instructions that show modelers how each model piece fits together, in the proper sequence and position; "MTV-like" video model making tips on how to glue, paint and detail a model like a pro; fun facts about each of the four featured sports car's performance and design; a painting option that lets modelers see how each car looks in different colors before painting and an on-line glossary of automotive terms.

The driving simulation game can be played with any of the four super-hot European racers and begins with a challenging, exciting and realistic race through the back roads of Europe, dodging obstacles and sometimes outrunning the police to arrive at one of four tracks.

Additional 1993 titles include Backroad Racers featuring the limited-production Boss 302 Mustang, the aerodynamic Hemi 'Cuda, the power-packed Chevelle SS396, and the high-performance Malibu SS Pro Street; and Hi-Tech Aircraft, which features the mighty AH-64 Apache Helicopter, the sophisticated F-14A Tomcat, the supersly F-117A Stealth Fighter and the powerful F-15 Strike Eagle.

Hardware requirements: IBM compatible PC (386 SX, 4 megabytes RAM, 13-MB hard disk), memory manager, monitor, super VGA graphics adapter with VESA drivers, CD-ROM drive, Sound Blaster audio card, speakers or headphones, mouse, joystick (optional).

Pending platforms: SEGA, Apple, 3DO.

Software features: Animated 3-D graphics, 256 colors VGA, soft-compressed motion picture video, high fidelity music, digitized and computer generated sound effects, 32 bit architecture.

Suggested retail price: $70.


Info-Mac CD-ROM II Public Domain & Shareware
Info-Mac CD-ROM II

The second issue of the Info-Mac CD-ROM has just been released.  It contains over 570 MB (about 15,000 files) of Macintosh public domain and shareware programs and files downloaded from Stanford University's Sumex-Aim Info-Mac archive as late as April 1993.  This is probably the most comprehensive and up-to-date collection of Macintosh files available on the Internet.  Many of the other Macintosh archives on the Internet around the world mirror this site or contain substantial portions of the Info-Mac archive.

All of the programs have been debinhexed and decompressed so that most can be run directly from the CD.  The entire disc has been indexed with On Location, and the Internet digests and Mac newsgroup files have been indexed for easy browsing and searching.  There is also a text file with one-line descriptions of each program.

Here is a listing of the categories of files (top-level directory):

  !Readme           Desk Accessories  Game              Tech

  Applications      Demo              Languages         Tips

  Art               Digest            Miscellaneous     Unix

  Hypercard         Extensions        Report            Utilities

  Communications    FKey              Sound             Virus

  Control Panel     Font              Source

The files on this CD-ROM are available via anonymous ftp from the Internet site sumex-aim.stanford.edu.  We would like to thank the authors, the administrators at sumex-aim, and the netters who have given generously of their time and advice while we have been producing the disc.  (They of course cannot be held responsible for any shortcomings of the disc, or any possible claims resulting from its production.)

Pacific HiTech, 4530 Fortuna Way, Salt Lake City, Utah 84124

Tel     1-801-278-2042        1-800-765-8369

Fax     1-801-278-2666        Email   71175.3152@CompuServe.com

Info-Mac II Pricing:

$49.95       Regular Price

$29.95       Upgrade Price (for those who have the first issue)

 $5.00       Shipping & Handling (US)

 $9.00       Shipping & Handling (International)


New Technology Information Service via Email
NEW TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION SERVICE

There's a new "wire service" intended for those who need to keep track of significant advances in technology.   It would be of particular interest to research institutes and manufacturing companies.

Called ALERT, it is produced by Technical Insights Inc., and is disseminated by e-mail.  This is a commercial service (i.e., it costs money), but it comes with a license allowing unlimited copying within a site or a company.  Technical Insights also is publisher of INSIDE R&D and other "technology intelligence" services.

Technical Insights has a technical staff that seeks out advances meeting the following criteria.  According to the company, developments they identify must:

   * be significant developments within their fields;

   * be genuinely new technology;

   * have near-term commercial potential; and

   * be available for transfer.

The ALERT service is intended for managers of R&D, product development, manufacturing, environmental protection, technical planning, and related disciplines.  The ALERT bulletins are sent out weekly and you can choose one or more subject areas described as follows:

1. Advances in Industrial R&D:  Significant advances -- across

   all major industrial fields -- ready to be commercialized, and

   that will lead to new products or processes.

2. Advances in Materials and Coatings:  Developments useful to

   those seeking new products and/or looking for solutions or

   improvements to processing and manufacturing problems.

3. Advances in Manufacturing Technology:  With special emphasis

   on sensor technology, assembly advances, and developments

   related to improved quality through better test and

   measurement.

4. Advances in Industrial Bioprocessing:  Bioremediation and ways

   to develop products such as specialty chemicals, alternative

   fuels, feedstocks, adhesives, biopolymers, cosmetics, and

   biosensors.

5. Advances in Genetic Technology:  Comprehensive information

   about commercially-viable genetic engineering advances with

   analysis of real-world competitive markets as well as

   strategic partnerships & patents.

Technical Insights's information comes mainly from direct contacts with major laboratories around the world.  For each development they describe, they include the name and telephone of the developers whom they have talked with, so that users can follow up easily on items of interest.

Because of Technical Insights's focus on near-term, commercially viable new applications, their info has little overlap with the scientific literature.  Also, it has little overlap with trade publications, which carry mostly info on new products, i.e., things that are already commercialized.

Technical Insights has been in the technology intelligence business for 22 years.  It is located at 32 N. Dean St., Englewood, NJ 07631-2807, USA, tel (201) 568-4744, fax 568-8247, or email to: howitt@radburn.jvnc.net


Windows Music Sculptor MIDI Sequencer
Windows Music Sculptor is a very easy to use MIDI sequencer that allows you to record, edit, and play music.  It can be used with an external MIDI keyboard and also includes an on-screen music keyboard.  It is a fully functional shareware program and you will receive a collection of 75 midi songs upon registration.

Works with Windows 3.1 and any Windows-compatible sound card.

Aleph Omega Software

Box 61085, Kensington Postal Outlet, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4S6 Canada

(403) 289-8831;   Email: strubens@cuugnet.cuug.ab.ca


Spider Island Updates TeleFinder BBS Swr
Spider Island Software Adds Inter-Node Messaging, Chat Rooms, File Preview, And Full-Text Formatting To  Award-Winning TeleFinder BBS Software

IRVINE, CA Q June 14, 1993 -- Spider Island Software, maker of TeleFinder, announces it is now shipping Version 3.1 of its Group Edition Host software. Incorporating substantial new features most frequently requested by users, TeleFinder 3.1, runs on all Macintosh computers from the Plus to the Quadras, is 32-bit clean, System 7 "Savvy," can be fully controlled via AppleEvents for customized system integration, and includes full Balloon Help. With a retail price of $425 for unlimited users and available direct from Spider Island and through its authorized resellers, TeleFinder Group Edition Version 3.1 includes the full suite of BBS host program modules, user-access software with unlimited distribution license, and full documentation.

With the addition of a Chat Server module, Spider Island now gives TeleFinder BBS operators (sysops) the ability to offer callers real-time, private messaging with other active modem or AppleTalk nodes on a system, where the number of simultaneous one-to-one sessions is limited only by the number of telephone lines supported by the Macintosh CPU. While online, users are able to view a list of current callers available for chat. Additionally, special chat rooms can be created where multiple callers can hold live conferences via a Chat Window that clearly identifies participants and displays a groupUs conversation, which can be logged and saved for review. Sysops can easily restrict and regulate access to any of these conference areas by assigning privileges according to groups and or individuals.

In addition, version 3.1 of the client software allows users to preview compressed, thumbnail PICT files and their captions online. This enables users to view files, compressed using JPEG or any other ANPA file-standard format, before they decide to download the file. Another important addition allows sysops and users to format text in both the messaging and conference areas. This new capability gives callers the ability to customize their messages in a variety of ways: by adding color, or in choosing any combination of font, size, and style commands.

Capable of managing up to 32,000 users, TeleFinder was named the Best Electronic Communications product for 1992 by MacWorld Australia. All of Spider Island's products carry a 30-day money-back guarantee. The company provides technical support to registered users by telephone and via its own support BBS. Based in Irvine, California, the company can be reached at (714) 669-9260. Editors and prospective customers can also use a modem to reach the Spider Island Support BBS by dialing (714) 730-5785.


odb++ Database Class Library for Windows
odb++: A Database Class Library for a rapid RDBMS application development in MS Windows environment

odb++ is a powerful yet easy-to-use application development tool with a number of benefits:

Database portability

odb++ is built on top of Q+E Database library supporting all the databases accessible by QELIB (ORACLE,Ingres,Sybase,SQL Server,DB2,OS/2 DBM, Netware SQL,SQL Base,XDB,Paradox,Informix,Progress, dBase files,EXCEL files,Text files,Btrieve etc.)

and providing database independent development.

Object-oriented, extensible framework

To create an application you build your dialog classes by inheriting them from odb++ classes, which include all the necessary methods for database handling (retrieving,

inserting, updating etc.). You can concentrate on redefining the behaviour of application specific details. odb++ also has some special methods to automatically

handle referential integrity and data transfer between the form and the database.

Rapid RDBMS and GUI application development

The application development layer of odb++ combines the properties of the database layer and a separate GUI class library, e.g. CA-CommonView. You can easily develop

database applications for MS Windows (OS/2 PM and OSF/Motif will be supported later on).  We also have an application layer version for Borland's ObjectWindows

Library (OWL) and Microsoft Foundation Classes (MFC). odb++ supports Borland C++ v3.1 and Microsoft Visual C++ compilers.

Relatech Ltd, Ylistonmaentie 31, SF-40500 Jyvaskyla, FINLAND

Phone int'l +358 41 650 200;    Fax int'l   +358 41 650 120

email: odb-support@relatech.fi


Unitools v1.0 UNIX tools for DOS
Announcing Unitools version 1.0.  UNIX tools for Dos.  Unitools is a set of over 50 UNIX style utilities for DOS.  These tools include cu, cp, mv, rm, sed, vi, paste, cut, etc.  They also include a shell with it's own script language and command interpreter.

Some of the features of Unitools:

   -  Full UNIX wildcarding for all utilities even if used

      from command.com

   -  cu has both ansi and vt100 emulation

   -  aliasing in the shell

   -  command history available in the shell

   -  login and profile files available in the shell

   -  cpio archive format fully compatable with UNIX

   -  options are the same as UNIX but designed to work with DOS

   -  rm has recursive removes

   -  mv will move whole directories

   -  full telephone and online support

Magnus Computing

558A Baltimore Pike, Suite 405, Belair, MD 21014

Voice: 410-893-4643;   Data:  410-893-4786


Stream Tech. Document Browswr for Windows
STREAM TECHNOLOGIES INC. ANNOUNCES DOCUMENT BROWSER FOR WINDOWS

Document Browser provides multimedia support and transparent access to several Internet services

ESPOO, Finland, June 15, 1993 -- Stream Technologies Inc. announced today world wide availability of an innovative new application for document management and document based communication in TCP/IP networks.

STI Document Browser for Windows is a network client application that provides a uniform and seamless way of accessing a number of local and TCP/IP based services and document formats.  With it's inbuilt support for most common TCP/IP service protocols Document Browser allows a user to access practically any file or document available on the Internet or on some other TCP/IP based network. A simple drag-and-drop operation can be used to copy or move files or directories - even between services.  Any file can be viewed by a simple mouse click or sent as an encapsulated e-mail message anywhere in the world.

Features of STI Document Browser for Windows include:

*   Virtual file system support, based on the Store technology developed by Stream Technologies.  Currently supported protocols and file systems include: FTP, POP, Gopher, NNTP, MH style mail message folders and an intelligent mapping to the MS-DOS FAT file system.

*   Multimedia and compound documents are internally represented in a form of SGML markup.  Automatic conversion to and from the emerging Internet standard "MIME" is supported.

*   A interpreter engine and a PostScript viewer application are included for viewing PostScript files.  The viewer can also be used as an OLE1/OLE2 server for including PostScript objects to other OLE compliant Windows applications.

*   Full featured SMTP/POP email client with multimedia extensions. Directory lookup function with support for X.500 style directory entries and portrait images.

*   Individual copies of the Document Browser application are authorised for use by a license key.

System Requirements

A PC running Microsoft Windows version 3.1 or higher. A network adapter card.  One of: "PC/NFS V4.0", "PC/TCP from FTP Software", "Microsoft LAN MANAGER TCP/IP", "Netmanage Chameleon", "Digital Pathworks" or any WINSOCK compatiple TCP/IP protocol stack.

Availability and Pricing

Document Browser V1.2 is available starting from July 1 for a suggested retail price of $395.  Multiuser versions are priced as follows:

    10 user license     USD   2.765,00

    25 user license     USD   5.734,00

    50 user license     USD   9.684,00

    100 user license    USD  15.800,00

Contact STI for pricing of site licenses bigger than above. To order STI Document Browser for Windows send a check or money order to the address below.  Allow 2 weeks for delivery.

Stream Technologies Inc.

Valkjarventie 2, SF-02130 Espoo, FINLAND

E-Mail: info@sti.fi;  Fax: +358 (0) 43577348;   Tel: +358 (0) 43577340


NetMinder Windows Internet Adr Book/Database
N e t M i n d e r

Announcing NetMinder! The first Internet Address Book/Database for Microsoft Windows. NetMinder allows the easy use and storage of complex Internet E-Mail/FTP/Telnet addresses. Storing addresses in NetMinder is as easy as cutting them out of your terminal screen. To use a stored address you just search for your desired address, press "Use", and paste it right to your terminal screen. NetMinder allows users to list entries by category (FTP,E-Mail,Telnet,etc), and to search addresses by domain (edu,gov,com,etc.).

Main Features:

- Innovative easy to use interface.

- Multiple databases can be created, and exchanged with other users

  of NetMinder.

- Multiple instances of NetMinder can be run. Fully network compatible.

- Memos can be added for each entry. Useful for storing pathnames etc.

- Data is kept in standard DBase IV format and can be loaded into other

  database programs such as Paradox or Access.

- Online Help

Obtaining Info on NetMinder:

A file containing screenshots and information has been posted on wuarchive.wustl.edu under the name of NETMIND.ZIP. To get it ftp to wuarchive.wustl.ed, and then change directories to /pub/MSDOS_UPLOADS/windows.

Ordering NetMinder:

NetMinder is being offered at an introductory price of $39.95 US + $5.05 Shipping ($45.00 US Total). Network pricing is at $30.95 US + $5.05 Shipping ($36.00 US Total) per copy in quantities greater than 3. Federal Express shipping is available on request. Please send Money Orders to:

Info-Match Communications Inc.

Box 10 - 2425 Granville St, Vancouver, B.C. Canada V6H 3G5


Windows NT Porting to Sun SPARC Workstations
PALO ALTO, Calif., July 7, 1993 -- Sun Microsystems Computer Corporation (SMCC) and Intergraph Corporation announced today that they have signed a development agreement that will accelerate delivery of future generations of SPARC microprocessors. In addition, Intergraph will port Microsoft Corporation's Windows NT operating system to future SPARC microprocessors.

Under terms of the agreement, Intergraph's Advanced Processor Division (APD), located here, will develop high-end 64-bit SPARC microprocessors jointly with SMCC's SPARC Technology Business (STB). Intergraph and SMCC both have the right to use these processors in their system level products, while STB will make these components available to the open market.

As part of the agreement, APD will assume responsibility for porting Microsoft's Windows NT to Intergraph systems using future versions of SPARC processors. The APD port will support the "little-endian" byte ordering feature to be included in future SPARC implementations. This means that Windows NT itself and Windows NT applications will transition easily to the SPARC architecture. Solaris will continue to support "big-endian" byte ordering, as defined in current and future versions of the SPARC architecture, which to date runs more than 7500 hardware and software solutions.

With the official release of Windows NT, Intergraph will offer its technical applications on Windows NT-based systems incorporating Intel and Clipper microprocessors. As a result of this agreement, Intergraph now expects to offer SPARC-compatible Windows NT systems and  applications during 1995. SPARC systems represented more than 52 percent of worldwide reduced instruction set computer (RISC) workstation/server shipments in 1992, according to International Data Corporation, more than all competitive RISC system marketshare combined.

"This agreement marks another milestone as the SPARC community broadens. We are pleased to see industry-leading vendors like Intergraph adopt SPARC," said Scott McNealy, chairman and chief executive officer of Sun Microsystems, Inc. "We're also pleased that APD's Windows NT porting expertise will add another key software environment to SPARC. This agreement means the three most popular operating systems -- Solaris from SunSoft, NetWare from Novell, and now Windows NT from Microsoft -- will be ported to SPARC, the powerful, high volume RISC standard."

Jim Meadlock, Intergraph's CEO, noted: "This represents the next logical step in our relationship with Sun. We already have several of our major UNIX applications running on SPARC, and we resell Sun workstations in selected markets. By devoting APD resources to SPARC, we leverage our expertise in high-end processor development. Porting Windows NT to SPARC will benefit the entire SPARC and Windows NT communities, and expands our own marketing options around the Windows NT standard. Windows NT's source-language compatibility across different machine architectures lets us sell our applications solutions on whatever hardware architectures best address our customers' needs. This announcement reinforces Intergraph's capability to provide interoperability between UNIX and Windows environments. Our Clipper-based products, representing the midrange of our product lines, will continue to be enhanced and supported for both UNIX and Windows NT. The future SPARC-based Windows NT products are planned for high-end workstations and compute-servers."

SPARC Technology Business (STB) is an organization within SMCC that makes SMCC- developed SPARC processor and system product designs, operating system-independent computers, and engineering services available to the open market. Future chips from STB and APD will be part of the UltraSPARC family on the SPARC Technology Roadmap recently unveiled by STB. The roadmap details many current and future microprocessor designs, demonstrating SPARC's unsurpassed scalability.

SMCC Background Information

Sun Microsystems Computer Corporation is the world's leading supplier of open client/server computing solutions. An operating company of Sun Microsystems, SMCC has its headquarters in Mountain View, Calif.

Intergraph Background Information

Intergraph Corporation, the world's largest producer of interactive computer graphics systems, offers a broad range of complementary workstations and network servers, as well as complete application-specific systems for computer-aided design, engineering, manufacturing, and publishing, plus numerous earth science applications. Intergraph has its headquarters in Huntsville, Ala.; Intergraph's Advanced Processor Division is located in Palo Alto, Calif.


Collins On-Line V2.20 Bilingual Dictionaries
COLLINS ON-LINE v2.20

June 28, 1993 -- HarperCollins has released a powerful new version of COLLINS ON-LlNE, a wide range of electronic bilingual dictionaries for DOS and Windows 3.1

NEW FEATURES

DOS -- Secondary Zoom Window which displays extensive dictionary entries more clearly (ideal for use with the new edition of Collins COBUILD Student's Add-on English Dictionary e2.0)

Windows -- full compatibility with Microsoft Windows 3.1

DOS & Windows -- Supplement Builder which allows existing wordlists to be converted for use with Collins On-line

Collins On-line contains over 40,000 references and over 70,000 translations, and is quick, easy-to-use and suitable for use with most word processing packages.

OTHER FEATURES

DOS version: automatic screen read facility, Quick Lookup using a hotkey combination, automatic insertion of selected word in text, History displays words previously looked up, colour settings may be customized for menu and text, context sensitive Help, customized menu settings (different languages).

Windows Version: Browse allows easy cross referencing within the same dictionary or with another Team, Cut & Paste words or blocks of text via the Clipboard.

DOS & Windows versions: meanings signposted for accurate use of translations, Annotation feature allows personal files to be created, compatibility with other speciality Supplementary Dictionaries and thesauruses, near matching, pasting words into wp documents, easy switching between dictionaries, cross referencing between headwords, comprehensive documentation including Quick Reference Card.

Dictionaries available for Collins On-line:

Francais-Anglais/English-French

Deutsch-Englisch/English-German

Italiano-Inglese/English-Italian

Espanol-Ingles/English-Spanish

Add-on dictionaries available for Collins On-line:

Francais-Anglais/English-French

Deutsch-Englisch/English-German

Italiano-Inglese/English-Italian

Espanol-Ingles/English-Spanish

Francais-Deutsch/German-French

Francais-Espanol/Spanish-French

COBUILD Student's (English)

Collins On-line is ideal for business people, secretaries, journalists, translators, students and teachers, indeed anyone who needs quick and accurate translation at their fingertips.

HarperCollins Electronic Reference

14 Steep Lane, Findon, Worthing, West Sussex BN14 0UF UK

Tel +44 (0)903 873 555,    Fax +44 (0)903 873 633


Colorado Spectrum Notebook Gameport
Colorado Spectrum Introduces the NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT

July 1, 1993, Fort Collins, Colorado--Colorado Spectrum, maker of innovative computer accessories, has announced its newest product for flight and driving simulations, the NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT. This compact external device with sleek aeronautical styling connects to a computer's serial port and provides a fully functional gameport and a pass-through serial mouse port. The NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT is the first product specifically designed to provide full joystick support for IBM PC-compatible notebook computers.

The NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT is an ideal solution for people who are using a notebook computer as a desktop replacement. "We think we're typical of our customers in that as we upgraded from '286 desktop systems to '486s in our office, we chose notebook computers for their portability and versatility," said Colorado Spectrum's President Ken Hall. "We merely swapped out the desktop CPUs for the faster notebooks, plugging our VGA monitors and large keyboards into the notebooks. Our Mouse Yoke and Mouse Wheel products already support laptop and notebook computers. It was natural for us to extend our product family with the NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT for connecting joysticks and rudder pedals.

Bo Viger, NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT Product Manager, commented, "I've been amazed at how many business associates who own notebooks are 'closet' game players. We found that a very high percentage of professionals who use notebooks like to relax with some form of game or entertainment software. The NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT allows them to add today's top simulations to their options."

With International Data Corp. estimates of 3.2 million notebook unit sales in the U.S. alone in '93 and an expected 25% annual growth rate from 1993 to 1996 as predicted by the Data Analysis Group, notebooks are rapidly replacing traditional PCs on the desktop. By connecting to the serial port and providing a passthrough mouse connection, the NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT allows continued use of a mouse and keeps the parallel port free for an external sound device or for a printer or LAN connection.

Major simulation software vendors have already modified their software so that they can declare their software "Notebook Ready! Some of the many applications supporting the NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT are: ACES OVER EUROPE (Dynamix); F-15 STRIKE EAGLE III, WORLD CIRCUIT, AIR DUEL, JUMP JET, F-117A, and GUNSHIP 2000 (Microprose); MIG-29 (Spectrum HoloByte) and more! The NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT includes installation software and, for "instant gratification", an update for F-15 STRIKE EAGLE III.

"With minor code changes, we were able to take full advantage of the fastest growing segment of the personal computer marketplace," said Kuswara Pranawahadi, Director of New Technology at Spectrum HoloByte. "As notebooks become predominantly 486-based, and with active color matrix displays becoming more affordable, we see notebook computers as excellent platforms for simulations," added Carl Knoch, Microprose Product Manager.

With a U.S. list price of $49.95, the NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT will also be attractive for desktop PC owners who need a gameport but don't want to install a game card or lack available card slots. The NOTEBOOK GAMEPORT will ship in early July, 1993, and will be available at major computer and software retailers or directly from Colorado Spectrum. Colorado Spectrum may be reached at (800) 238-5983 or FAX (303) 2251663. The company's address is 748 Whaler's Way, Suite E-201, Fort Collins, CO 80525.


Online Computer Adds Broderbund CDROM Titles
Online Computer Systems Adds New Br0derbund CD-ROM Titles to Its Portfolio

June 26, 1993 -- Online Computer Systems, Inc., (Germantown, MD) is pleased to announce the addition of two new titles from Br0derbund Software (Novato, CA) to its portfolio of CD-ROM products for Education and Libraries. The new titles, The New Kid on the Block and The Tortoise and the Hare are part of the Living Books series of CD-ROMs and join the first two best-selling titles in the series, Just Grandma and Me and Arthur's Teacher Trouble. Both standalone and network versions of these titles are available from Online. The network versions will be offered individually or with Online's top selling OPTI-NET family of CD-ROM networking products.

Created specifically for CD-ROM, the Living Books series brings a fresh new dimension to reading including animations and sound effects, talking characters, original music and narration. The New Kid on the Block, children's poems by Jack Prelutsky, is Broderbund's first interactive poetry book. Instead of clicking on objects, as in other Living Books, children click on various words or lines and watch the animated cartoons act out the selections. The Tortoise and the Hare, as told by Mark Schlicting, is the first Children's Classic in Br0derbund's Living Books series and is based on a fable by Aesop.

Additional titles offered in Online's Portfolio include Br0derbund's Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? CD-ROM Deluxe Edition, The New Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia, The 1992 TIME Magazine Compact Almanac, and Online's Bookshelf? CD-ROM Reference Library by Microsoft. The OPTI-NET family and Online's own multi-drive CD-ROM Tower units featuring SCSI drives round out Online's extensive CD-ROM product offerings.

Both new titles, The New Kid on the Block and The Tortoise and the Hare are priced at $49.95 each for a single workstation license. An eight workstation license is priced at $195.00 per title. The new titles will begin shipping in late September.

Br0derbund Software, Inc., is a leading developer and publisher of personal computer software for the home, school, and small business markets. Best known for its Print Shop and Carmen Sandiego series, the company publishes a broad range of innovative productivity, education and entertainment titles. Founded in 1980, the company is based in Novato, CA.

Online Computer Systems, Inc., a member of the Reed Elsevier group, is a leading provider of electronic publishing products and solutions to its clients worldwide. Online's extensive portfolio of CD-ROM offerings includes the market leading OPTI-NET? CD-ROM networking software family, standalone and network license versions of popular CD-ROM titles, single and multi-drive CD-ROM tower units, and bundled hardware/title solutions. As an expert in the field of CD-ROM networking, Online has obtained exclusive distribution rights to network license versions of many popular CD-ROM titles.

Online Computer Systems Inc

20251 Century Blvd, Germantown, MD 20874

301-428-3700,   800-922-9204,   fax 301-428-2903


Online Computer & Encyclopedia Britannica
Online Computer Systems and Encyclopedia Britannica Educational Corporation Sign Distribution Agreement

June 26, 1993 -- Online Computer Systems, Inc., (Germantown, MD) and Encyclopaedia Britannica Educational Corporation (EBEC) have entered into an agreement whereby EBEC will distribute selected products from Online's portfolio of CD-ROM products. Initially, EBEC will market the DOS version from Online's market-leading OPTI-NET family of CD-ROM networking software; the network version of the 1992 TIME Magazine Compact Almanac CD-ROM; network versions of Broderbund's Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? CD-ROM Deluxe Edition and Living Books series of CD-ROMs; and the network version of Online's Bookshelf CD-ROM Reference Library by Microsoft.

EBEC will market these products nationally through their field sales organization of more than 85 representatives. These products will join EBEC's comprehensive offerings of quality curriculum based instructional and learning materials and expand their reach with networking products.

Encyclopaedia Britannica Educational Corporation is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year. And, its parent organization, Encyclopaedia Britannica, proudly claims 1993 as its 225th year of continuous operation as publisher of the world's foremost reference: The Encyclopaedia Britannica.

Online Computer Systems, Inc., a member of the Reed Elsevier group, is a leading provider of electronic publishing products and solutions to its clients worldwide. Online's extensive portfolio of CD-ROM offerings includes the market leading OPTI-NET CD-ROM networking software family, standalone and network license versions of popular CD-ROM titles including The New Grolier Multimedia Encyclopedia, single and multi-drive CD-ROM tower units, and bundled hardware/title solutions. Online has obtained exclusive distribution rights to network license versions of many popular CD-ROM titles.

Online Computer Systems Inc

20251 Century Blvd, Germantown, MD 20874

301-428-3700,   800-922-9204,   fax 301-428-2903


European Swr Sales Reach $484 Million Q1-1993
European Software Sales Reach $484 million in First Quarter 1993 Sales up 19% from last year

July 6, 1993 (Washington, DC) - The Software Publishers Association (SPA) announced today that North American software firms' revenues in Western Europe were $484 million in the first quarter of 1993, a 19% increase in revenues with a 61% growth in units compared with the first quarter 1992.

Forty-one primarily US-based software firms participated in the SPA's data program by submitting confidential data to the accounting firm of Arthur Andersen, which prepared the report for the SPA. Among the participants are: Aldus, Borland, Claris, Lotus, Microsoft, Software Publishing, Symantec, and WordPerfect. The data was collected in 22 software categories (including word processors, spreadsheets, presentation graphics, and others) and in six software formats (including DOS, Macintosh, and Windows).

The participating companies reported total sales in Western Europe of $484.4 million in the first quarter of 1993. Sales of Windows-based products surged 71% compared with the first quarter of 1992, reaching $338.1 million in the '93 quarter. Windows products now account for 70% of participating publishers' sales in Europe. Sales of DOS-based applications declined 37% for the period, to $102.6 million. Sales of Macintosh-based applications grew 3% to $39.1 million.

Growth rates varied widely among the regions in which the SPA collects data. The Germany/Austria region remained the largest, with sales of $151.9 million. It was also the fastest growing, with a growth rate of 56%. The United Kingdom/Ireland region was next largest, with sales of $119.5 million (up 11%), while France was third, on sales of $80.3 million (up 10%).

"Although the overall growth rate of 19% is identical to the rate for all of 1992, the individual regions' growth rates are different from what we saw at the end of 1992," said Gerard Gabella, Managing Director of SPA Europe. "The upswing in the Germany/Austria region was much higher than it was in the last quarter of 1992 (56% vs 18%), while the rise in the United Kingdom/Ireland region slowed (11% this quarter vs 18% for 1992). Sales increases in France remained steady, at 10% for both quarters. Although up only 3% this quarter, the market in Italy will bear watching in the future. In March the Italian government began a series of actions designed to increase their VAT receipts. Companies who pirate software instead of buying it, thereby avoiding the VAT, are one of their targets. This has resulted in much higher sales activity in the Italian market, which we expect in future quarters will be reflected in our figures."

Word processing was once again the largest category of software sold, with sales reaching $145 million for the quarter, a 4% increase over the 1992 quarter. Spreadsheets was the next largest category, with sales of $127 million, up 24%. Relational database sales were very strong for the quarter, with sales up 140% to $52 million.

"The first quarter saw the introduction of Borland's Paradox for Windows relational database, as well as the continued marketing roll-out of Microsoft's Access relational database," said David Tremblay, the SPA's Research Director. "Both products were offered with very aggressive introductory pricing. The results are evident in SPA's figures: Relational database sales in both Europe and North America were up 140%."

Established in 1984, the Software Publishers Association is the principal trade association of the PC software industry. Its over 1,000 members represent the leading publishers in the business, consumer, and education markets. The SPA has offices in Washington, DC, and Paris, France.

Software publishers Association

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

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


PAIS International Database at Lower Price
PAIS ANNOUNCES NEW TAPE LEASING FEES

PAIS, Public Affairs Information Service, Inc., the premier indexer of public policy and social issues literature, is announcing lower tape leasing prices for its PAIS- International database. Tapes of the current year's database may be leased for as low as $3000.00 (US) per year; tapes of the backfile may be leased for a one-time fee.

The machine readable data in the PAIS- International database contains all data records 1976 through December 1990 for the PAIS Bulletin, all data records 1972 through December 1990 for the PAIS Foreign Language Index and enhanced data records for PAIS International in Print, 1991 to present.

PAIS International database tapes are available directly from PAIS, as well as from several commercial sources. PAIS is located at 521 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036, telephone 212-736-6689, fax number 212-643-2848.

PAIS - Public Affairs Information Service, Inc., founded in 1914, is a nonprofit educational corporation, chartered by the Regents of the University of the State of New York, providing online, printed, and optical bibliographic indexes to the public policy literature of business, economics, finance, law, international trade and relations, government, political science, and other social services. Its products include PAIS INTERNATIONAL IN PRINT, PAIS INTERNATIONAL, (the electronic database available online through DIALOG, OCLC, Data-Star, and RLG), PAIS On CD-ROM, PAIS International On SilverPlatter, and PAIS/EBSCO CD-ROM.


Ventana Windows Shareware 500 Book in Reprint
June 6, 1993 -- Chapel Hill, NC--According to a statement issued today by the publisher, the recent Ventana Press title, The Windows Shareware 500, erroneously lists the product, Icon Do-It from Moon Valley Software as "freeware."

Icon Do-It, a program for animating icons and altering the look of the cursor in the Windows environment, is in fact commercial software, available through standard reseller channels, including Software Etc., CompUSA and Egghead Software. Suggested retail price is $29.95.

Ventana Press is notifying customers of the error and has removed the product from The Ventana Windows Shareware 500 Library on America Online. A corrected version of the book is currently being shipped.

Ventana Press publishes books and other materials that help computer users become more productive, including Voodoo Windows, Looking Good in Print, Windows Shareware 500, Windows, Word & Excel Office Companion and The Visual Guide to Visual Basic for Windows. All titles are available in bookstores and through Ventana Press, P.O. Box 2468, Chapel Hill, NC 27515.


EnVision Publisher Sweeps 3 Shareware Awards
EnVision Publisher Sweeps Three Shareware Industry Awards

PINELLAS PARK, FL -- July 2, 1993 -- Software Vision Corporation, publisher of EnVision Publisher, a desktop publishing program, was the only company to win as many as three awards during the second annual Shareware Industry Awards, held on June 19,1993. The Awards ceremony which has been held annually in Indianapolis, Indiana honors 11 categories of shareware which are awarded only to the best programs.

EnVision Publisher won awards in the following three categories: THE BEST APPLICATION SOFTWARE OF 11 YEARS (up against PC-File by Buttonware, PC-Write by Quicksoft, and Boxer by Boxer Software), BEST NEW MSDOS APPLICATION (up against ProtoCad by Trius, Off-Line Express by Mustang Software, Lace by Keith Ledbetter, PC-Proof by Franklin Hu, and Castle Wolfenstein-3D by ID/Apogee Software), and BEST NEW BUSINESS AND APPLICATIONS SOFTWARE (up against NeoPaint by On-Site Computer Services, ProtoCad-3D by Trius, and Chartist by Steve Goings.)

According to Julian Achim, Software Vision CEO, "The awards have given us a boost of confidence to continue developing high quality software and to market them through the unique shareware channel. The future looks bright both for EnVision Publisher and Software Vision as we embark on developing new business applications."

It is no accident that EnVision Publisher has swept the Shareware Industry awards this Summer. The technical excellence of this program exceeds that of most desktop publishing programs. EnVision Publisher is a graphical program with true What-You-See-Is-What-You-Get (WYSIWYG) capability, scalable fonts, a modern graphical user interface (GUI), complete set of object drawing tools, picture and text importing, as well as exporting to PCX, TIF, or IMG formats. EnVision Publisher also has page and document layout features such as master pages, style sheets, cut and paste, leading, kerning, various page sizes and orientations, support for any printer, including laser, dot-matrix, ink-jet, and PostScript.

Software Vision has been in business marketing EnVision Publisher Plus for $69 and EnVision Publisher Pro for $169, since October 1992, and is already a million dollar software company. Because EnVision Publisher is marketed as shareware (a try-before-you-buy software marketing method), the overwhelming success of EnVision Publisher is due to its technical excellence, and Software Vision's commitment to its product and customers.

Software Vision Corp

PO Box 1734, Pinellas Park, FL 34664-1734

813-545-4354,   800-388-8474,   fax 813-541-5616

CIS: 70304,64


CE Software Ships Cross-Platform QuickMail MHS

West Des Moines, IA, June 28, 1993 - CE SOFTWARE HOLDINGS, INC. (NASDAQ/NMS Symbol:CESH) today announced the North American release of QuickMail MHS. QuickMail MHS delivers Windows and Macintosh messaging clients native to Novell's Message Handling Service (NetWare MHS) transport. Today's shipment results from CE's commitment to provide NetWare native messaging solutions through Novell's NetWare Global MHS.

QuickMail MHS users will benefit from the graphical user interface allowing users to easily create custom address books, send mail to groups of users and file mail on their local hard drive or network server. Users can also store custom address books locally or on a server. Address books are easily synchronized with the MHS directory to ensure proper message handling. QuickMail MHS provides users with ability to attach over 60 files to a single message.

QuickMail MHS provides a utility for administrators to set and modify directory privileges and monitor mail usage. The administrator can easily add and delete users and modify user preferences. QuickMail MHS, which supports Novell's Standard Messaging Format (SMF), can also leverage Global MHS multi-protocol messaging services for SMTP, SNADS, and x.400, as well as a wide variety of third-party MHS gateways running on NetWare.

"QuickMail MHS and NetWare Global MHS provide users tight NetWare integration without compromising the quality of e-mail applications or the desktop platforms supported," said Rick Bohdanowicz, director of marketing for Novell's Messaging Products Division. "Administrators receive the time-saving benefits of the tight NetWare integration in Global MHS while users receive the benefits of the graphical user interface from the leading Macintosh mail provider."

"Our NetWare users have been requesting a more integrated implementation of mail with NetWare MHS. QuickMail MHS expands the impact of our cross-platform interface standard by natively supporting NetWare MHS," said Ford Goodman, president, CE Software, Inc. "This is consistent with our commitment to meet existing customer needs through continued support and enhancement of the QuickMail transport while adding functionality and openness to our mail and messaging clients on all commercially viable, open mail transports. We are the only company with a proprietary mail transport that actively supports transports from network operating system companies, and we are committed to supporting Novell's messaging vision."

QuickMail MHS will be available through Novell Authorized Resellers and through CE's domestic and international distribution channels. QuickMail MHS will be available in multi-user packages. The U.S. suggested retail prices are $599 for 10 users, $1,399 for 25 users and $4,499 for 100 users.

CE Software is the world's largest Macintosh E-mail provider. With almost one million QuickMail users world-wide, CE is a rapidly expanding developer of system-enhancing software and network productivity tools for the Macintosh and Windows/DOS markets. CE is leveraging leadership positions to develop next generation messaging and personal agent software.

CE Software Inc

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

515-221-1801;  fax: 515-221-1806;  CIS: 76136,2137

AOL/AppleLink/MCI-Mail: CESOFTWARE


Treasure Hunt Math Targets Nintendo Generation
At Home or at School, Treasure Hunt Math Targets the Nintendo Generation

San Jose, CA--24 June, 1993--Adventure LearningWare has released Treasure Hunt Math for the IBM PC. The software presents over 1000 math facts that cover grades 1 through 6 in an arcade-style game format. With record keeping, printed tat generation, problem file customization, and certificate printing capabilities, the program is well suited for home and school use.

Fun Action: The objective of the game is to find a treasure that was long sunk with a pirates' ship. You progress through four different phases that take you in and around the treasure island and under the ocean. As you progress at your own pace through each phase of the game, you are given math problems to solve. The math facts covered include addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals and percents. Depending on the option you selected, the challenge may be solving the equation or finding a missing factor. A study mode is available where you can preview the equation before attempting to solve it. When you solve all the problems in the game, the treasure is yours in a delightful animation sequence, and you can print a certificate of achievement. A top score will guarantee you a place in the high score list. If your performance was less than perfect, you get the chance to retake the problems you missed. The exciting graphics, animation and sound effects throughout the game promise hours of fun and make learning math facts an enjoyable experience!

Record Keeping: The program can keep track of students' progress on files that can be viewed or printed. These records are valuable in determining the student's progress and areas of weaknesses.

Problem Editor: A math problem editor lets you customize the existing math problem files or create some of your own. The editor is "smart", in that it can complete a partially entered equation for you. Math tests can be printed out.

MathTris: This falling-blocks style math game takes learning math facts to a new height (or depth?) of fun. In this game, three "wells" at the bottom of the ocean floor contain partially completed math equations. You control a falling gold bar containing the solution to one of the equation and try to make it land where it completes an equation.

Hardware Requirements: Treasure Hunt Math runs on an IBM PC or compatible, with DOS 2.1 or higher, 384K of RAM, an EGA, VGA or better graphics adapter. A dot-matrix or LaserJet compatible printer and a hard disk are supported but not required.

Availability: Treasure Hunt Math can be ordered by calling 1(800) 829-5519. Pricing: $19.95 for single user, $79.95 for 5 users lab pack $499.95 for a site license. A shareware evaluation copy can be obtained from major on-line services, BBSs (use your modem to dial (415) 323-4398 for a free download; look for the file THMATH.ZIP), and from shareware disk vendors. The shareware release does not include the MathTris game.

Adventure Learning Ware, 5665 Snell Ave, #236, San Jose, CA 95123

(408) 224-5519,    Fax (408) 224-4455,    Orders: (800) 829-5519


Digital Vision Computer-to-TV Scan Converter
DIGITAL VISION ADDS NEW LOW-COST COMPUTER-TO-TV TRUE SCAN CONVERTER WITH GENLOCK

June 28, 1993 -- DEDHAM, MA -- Digital Vision, Inc. is proud to announce a new addition to its computer video products, the high-performance yet low-cost TelevEyes/Pro Computer-to-TV Video Scan Converter With Genlock.

TelevEyes/Pro will retail at just $799.95 with first shipment to begin July 15th.

TelevEyes/Pro is a true hardware-only video scan converter (no computer software needed) for converting computer video, such as IBM PC VGA or Macintosh display output, to recordable composite or S-video. Whatever appears on the computer monitor can be displayed simultaneously to a large screen TV monitor, to a video projector, or recorded to video tape. TelevEyes/Pro is an external device and easily connects between the computer's output and monitor, making it an ideal multimedia companion for portable computers.

Several features make TelevEyes/Pro unique in the market:

* The hardware will automatically convert virtually any computer output - IBM PC or Macintosh, running any mode, any display hardware, and any application.

* Unlike many other converters in its price range, you need absolutely no software to run TelevEyes/Pro.

* The powerful on-board hardware image processing effectively eliminates flicker on the composite display while preserving full computer resolution.

* Control of all of the TelevEyes/Pro features is done via a convenient 3-button control panel and logically-designed on-screen menus - just like modem VCRs!

* Genlock is built it - not an expensive addition.

* Priced at $799.95 retail, TelevEyes/Pro will sell for about half that of comparable products on the market.

The built-in genlock feature allows users to overlay computer-generated screens over live video. Genlock makes TelevEyes/Pro a powerful video editing tool, ideal for video titling and special effects such as combining computer animations with live video (the "Roger Rabbit" effect). TelevEyes/Pro makes it easy to get very professional results.

The new TelevEyes/Pro joins Digital Vision's already popular ComputerEyes line of video capture products for IBM PC and Macintosh computers.

Digital Vision Inc, 270 Bridge St, Dedham, MA 02026

617-329-5400,  fax 617-329-6286


Racal-Datacom Digital Networking Seminars
RACAL-DATACOM OFFERS SEMINARS ON DIGITAL NETWORKING TRENDS AND PORTABLE COMPUTING, HIGH-SPEED MODEMS AND NETWORK MANAGEMENT

July 6, 1993 -- SUNRISE, FL. -- Two free, half-day seminars, entitled "Digital Networking Technologies of Today and Tomorrow" and "The Road to Portable Computing, V.Fast, and Network Management" will be offered during August and September in a number of southeastern cities. These seminars are presented by Racal-Datacom for corporate information systems executives. data communications personnel and journalists.

The "Digital Networking" seminar describes why this technology became pervasive in the data communications industry: by offering users lower monthly line charges, faster transfer speeds, greater reliability. reduced equipment costs, lower maintenance costs, and increased functionality. This seminar approaches digital technology from both the equipment and services perspective.

The "Portable Computing" seminar maps out how remote and mobile users can: connect to networks over cellular communications, minimize connection costs and maximize speed, send and receive faxes through PCs and laptop computers, secure the network from unauthorized users, manage remote equipment from corporate headquarters, and ensure application compatibility.

This "Portable Computing" seminar will also detail the effects of new telecommunications standards such as the emerging "V.Fast" modem standard. ("V.Fast" is the nickname for modems capable of data speeds up to 28,800 bits per second.) The implications of new standards and dial technologies, as well as the growing need for comprehensive network management and network security. will be described during the seminar.

The "Digital Networking" Seminar will be offered:

* Aug. 10 at Adam's Mark,

  555 S. McDowell Street, Charlotte, NC.

* Aug. 12 at Embassy Suites Orlando South,

  8978 International Drive, Orlando, FL.

* Sept. 2 at Sheraton Design Center Hotel,

  1825 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL.

* Sept. 21 at Sheraton Music City,

  777 McGavock Pike, Nashville, TN.

* Sept. 22 at Hyatt Regency Crystal City,

  2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA

* Sept. 23 at Sheraton Premiere Tysons Corner,

  8661 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA

The "Portable Computing seminar will be offered:

* Aug. 12 at Omni Richmond,

  100 S. 12th Street, Richmond. VA

* Aug. 17 at Hyatt Regency Crystal City,

  2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA

* Aug. 18 at Sheraton Premiere Tysons Corner,

  8661 Leesburg Pike, Vienna,

To reserve a seat call 800-845-6020. Each seminar runs from 9 a.m. to noon. On-site registration begins at 8:30 a.m.

For information on future seminar dates and sites, call 800-RACAL-55.

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 is represented in more than 80 nations. The company reported revenues of $560 million for the fiscal year ending March 31, 1993.

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


Belkin Launches 3+3 Ethernet Print Server
Belkin Components, the Leading Supplier of Cable Assembly Products and Printer Sharing Devices, Launches the 3+3 Multi-port Ethernet Print Server

Compton, CA--Belkin Components, the leading supplier of cable assemblies and printer sharing products to dealers nationwide, begins shipping their new 3+3 Ethernet Print Server today. This announcement is indicative of Belkin's commitment to providing an ever expanding product line in the LAN device marketplace.

The 3+3 server is a stand-alone unit which is unique in that it offers 3 Ethernet connections all in one box: AUI, BNC, and 10BaseT. It services 3 printer connections, 2 parallel and one serial. The unit now shipping features one DMA high speed parallel port (throughput speeds of up to 756Kb/s), and one standard parallel port. There is a unit which features two DMA high speed parallel ports now in development.

The 3+3 print server installs as an independent node on the network making the need for dedicated PC print servers obsolete. Print speed is vastly improved using the 3+3 as the print jobs do not have to be sent to a dedicated PC, and the high speed parallel port ensures that no bottlenecks develop on the segment where the 3+3 is installed. The 3+3 supports Novell 2.x and 3.x and uses standard Netware queues.

"When developing a new product Belkin always tries to engineer the problems out of existing products in the marketplace," said Steve Bellow, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "The 3+3 addresses the two major complaints against the existing print servers: lack of flexibility in network connections, and the tendency to slow down the network. The 3+3 actually speeds up network Printing speeds while offering all of the usual benefits of taking the print burden off of a dedicated PC. The three Ethernet connections we offer address all possible connection applications. This will make it a product which is very comfortable for our dealers to stock."

"We wanted to roll out a product which addressed the widest application spectrum first," continued Bellow, "and, right now, that application is Netware on Ethernet. But this is an ongoing development commitment for us, and before the end of the year we expect to release printer resident servers which will work in the MIO slot on the Laserjet IV, as well as multi protocol servers which handle UNIX TCP/IP. A Token Ring equal to the 3+3 should be available during the 3rd quarter of 1993."

Suggested List on the 3+3 Print Server, Model #F5G101, is $595.00. Liberal dealer and Distributor discounts available.

Belkin Components, located in Compton, California, services Resellers nationwide. Their product line continues to expand from their leadership role as a cable supplier to include intelligent printer sharing devices, surge suppressors, premise cabling products, and now, LAN devices.

Belkin Components, 1303 Walnut Parkway, Compton, CA 90220

(310) 898-1100,  800-2-BELKIN,   fax 310-898-1111


XyWrite 4 Macros, Customize Word Proc. Envir.
XyWrite 4 Users Can Customize Their Word Processing Environments

A user's guide to creating time-saving style sheets, templates and program macros for XyWrite 4 word processing tasks

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--XyWrite 4 Macros shows how to boost productivity by customizing XyWrite's off-the-rack menus and commands. Filled with added resources for XyWrite 4 and Signature users, this valuable book/disk package can speed up or simplify daily word processing chores. Macros, style sheets, and templates make it easy to personalize the program and extend its usefulness in any word processing environment.

Easy-to-follow instructions and many helpful screen displays show readers how to create time-saving program macros, style sheets, save/get files, and templates for:

* File and directory management

* Text editing and formatting

* Manipulating columns and tables

* Creating indexes and tables of contents

* Generating outlines and bibliographies

* Printing

More than 100 ready-to-use macros on disk get users off to a fast start

About the Authors:

Currently a senior writer for Atex, Inc., Art Campbell is a word processing expert, trainer, and course developer with nearly 20 years of experience. He is a frequent contributor to UNIX World magazine. Bonnie Allen is a technical writer, editor, and consultant who has written documentation for Atex, Inc., and XYQUEST Inc., the publisher of XyWrite.

XyWrite 4 Macros

Campbell/Allen

Order No. 4185

Available: July 1993

Paper $32.95 ISBN 0-8306-4047-9

272 pp., 172 illus., 7" x 10"

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


ObjectVision Programming for Windows
New Book Makes It Easy to Create Customized Applications for Windows

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--ObjectVision Programming for Windows gives nontechnical professionals, managers, and developers the practical guidance they need to design powerful Windows applications that meet their needs without writing a single line of code.

Author Donald Richard Read covers every aspect of ObjectVision 2.1 for Windows, demonstrating easy-to-learn object oriented techniques for creating graphical user interfaces for databases created with dBASE, Paradox, and many other programs. Read provides a working application that readers create as they learn, guiding them every step of the way as they:

* Plan a new application

* Work with fields

* Create secondary forms and add button objects

* Develop value trees

* Import graphic objects

* Change the size and appearance of fields and buttons

* Change label and value fonts

* Build a multipurpose event tree

* Align values within a field

3.5" disk contains two working applications

Includes directions for installing ObjectVision PRO in an OS/2 2.x environment

About the Author:

Donald Richard Read is president of a New York-based consulting firm that trains corporate clients in computer applications, and a computer software instructor at City University of New York (CUNY). He is the author of Windcrest's Mastering Harvard Graphics for Windows.

Windcrest/McGraw-Hill

ObjectVision Programming for Windows

Order No. 4258 Available: July 1993

Paper $24.95 ISBN 0-83064193-9 Hard $34.95 ISBN 0-8306-4194-7

224 pp., 380 illus., 7 x 10

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


Microsoft Macro Assembler 6.1 Programming
Programmers Can Increase Productivity with Microsoft Macro Assembler 6.1

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--Microsoft Macro Assembler 6.1 Programming gives MASM programmers the tools they need to get the most out of this next-generation assembler. Authors Len Dorfman and Marc Neuberger describe all of version 6.1's improvements in detail, including advanced control flow structures that promote unprecedented levels of efficiency, mixed-language programming for greater flexibility, and direct memory access far easier screen access.

Step-by-step instructions walk MASM programmers through each procedure, making it easy for them to:

* Convert C header files to MASM 6.1

* Link multi-module programs with MASM 6.1

* Start fully functional DOS procedure libraries

* Access BIOS interrupts

* Access the screen via direct memory access

* Manipulate windows and boxes

* Manage the keyboard and mouse

* Create menu bar/drop down user interfaces

* Write TSR programs

3.5" disk includes a complete subroutine library

Windcrest/McGraw-Hill

Microsoft Macro Assembler 6.1 Programming

Order No. 4194 Available: August 1993

Paper $34.95 ISBN 0-8306-4060-6

304 pp., 100 illus., 7 x 10

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


Generic Programming for Borland C++
C++ Programmers Can Create Time-Saving Generic Libraries Using New Templates

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--Generic Programming for Borland C++, a new book/disk package from Windcrest, gives C++ programmers the practical tools and guidance they need to create code that can be used over and over again in their applications.

Author Namir Shammas' clear, step-by-step instructions and helpful examples show users how to develop the following recyclable libraries:

* Stacks

* Arrays

* Linked lists

* Hash Tables

* AVL-trees

* Graphs

* Queues

* Matrices

In addition to providing dozens of complete, customizable program listings, Generic Programming for Borland C++ describes how to enhance generic code using techniques such as inheritance and polymorphism. This time-saving guide also comes with a disk containing all of the generic data structure class examples listed in the book.

About the Author:

A professional programmer and writer specializing in object-oriented programming, Namir C. Shammas is the author of Windcrest's Visual Basic: Easy Windows Programming and Visual Basic Power Programming.

Windcrest/McGraw-Hill

Generic Programming for Borland C++

Order No. 4299 Available: March 1993

Paper $34.95 ISBN 0-83064263-3

320 pp., 136 illus., 7" x 10"

3.5" disk included

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


Batch Files and Beyond, Your Path to PC Power
New Guide Shows PC Users How to Write Time-Saving Batch Files

Updated to cover DOS 6

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--Batch Files and Beyond: Your Path to PC Power is the book for anyone who wants to achieve DOS "guru-hood." Whatever their level of skill, readers can turn to this outstanding guide not only for practical tips on customizing their PC systems, but also for an eye-opening introduction to the hidden powers of DOS.

Dan Gookin takes readers beyond the basic batch file routines found in other DOS books, allowing them to use what they already know about DOS to create sophisticated batch files and desktop utilities. With Gookin's clear, lighthearted instruction, DOS users can write time-saving batch files for almost any occasion:

* Managing hard disks

* Creating custom menu-driven interfaces

* Modifying displays and work environments

* Setting system parameters and variables

* Launching applications automatically

* Customizing AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS

Even if it focused only on DOS batch file techniques, this book would still be the most advanced-level guide on the subject. But Gookin adds lots of valuable extras, including customizable start-up files; macros for WordPerfect, Lotus 1-2-3, and DESQview; batch files and macros for Windows 3.1; and tips on using BASIC, EBLplus, Builder, Beyond*Bat, Norton Batch Builder, and other batch file extenders.

Features a complete disk library of plug-in batch file programs

Windcrest/McGraw-Hill

Batch Files and Beyond: Your Path to PC Power

Order No. 4379 Available: July 1993

Paper $32.95 ISBN 0-8306-4384-2 Hard $44.95 ISBN 0-8306-4385-0

528 pp., 154 illus., 7 x 10

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


Netware: The Macintosh Connection
Windcrest Book Shows How to Integrate Macintoshes into the Netware Environment

BLUE RIDGE SUMMIT, PA--Part of Windcrest's Applied Networking Series, Netware: The Macintosh Connection gives network administrators, designers, and Mac users valuable guidance on how to plan for, install, and operate the Macintosh in a Novell system.

In this clearly written book, Marty Jost, Novell's product manager for Macintosh, covers all of the theoretical, technical, and practical issues involved in linking the Macintosh to Mac-only and Mac-PC networks. Jost provides a step-by-step program of skills development for everyone from beginning users to experienced network managers .

Readers will quickly learn how to optimize network performance, share data and peripherals, convert files between Macintosh and DOS computers, maintain network security, build error-tolerant systems, and use electronic mail.

About the Author:

Marty Jost is currently product manager of Netware for Macintosh at Novell Corporation. He is coauthor of Windcrest's TOPS: The IBM-Macintosh Connection. Other titles in the Applied Networking Series include Networking with Banyan Vines-- Second Edition, Netware: The Macintosh Connection, and Linking LANs: A Micro Manager's Guide.

Windcrest/McGraw-Hill

Netware: The Macintosh Connection

Order No. 3756 * Now Available

Paper $22.95 ISBN 0-8306-2195-4

248 pp., 226 illus., 7" x 10"

TAB Books, Blue Ridge Summit, PA 17294-0850

1-800-233-1128,  FAX 717-794-2103


Environmental Regulation Analysis Tracking Swr
ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION ANALYSIS TRACKING (E-RAT)

A breakthrough software tool has been developed to identify the specific regulatory requirements for each individual business operation. The user is prompted through a series of simple questions which result in the detailing of explicit regulatory compliance requirements. These compliance needs are then automatically scheduled and cross-referenced for easy implementation by management.

The Environmental Regulation Analysis Tracking (E-RAT) Software identifies ALL applicable EPA Regulations including CAA, CERCLA, CWA, EPCRA, HSWA, RCRA, SARA, SDWA and more. E-RAT specifies: Waht must be done, When it must be done and How it can be done. Reporting Forms, Management Aids, Cross-Referenced Material and Compliance Guidelines with appropriate solutions are generated for the particular business operation.

E-RAT Software works on any PC or compatible system and is updated quarterly by SOLUTIONS Software Corporation which publishes the respected Environmental SOLUTIONS Database.

E-RAT Software is an essential regulatory compliance tool for management, consultants, and regulators, E-RAT automatically guides the user through the maze of environmental regulations and then identifies the precise actions that must be taken to avoid penalties and embarassing errors. E-RAT eliminates the guesswork.

Detailed information on the E-RAT Software is available upon request.

SOLUTIONS Software Corp.

1795 Turtle Hill Rd, Enterprise, FL 32725

407-321-7912,  fax 407-323-4898

BBS 407-321-6119 8N1 2400/1440 baud


Learning the Korn Shell
O'REILLY RELEASES GUIDE TO SOLVING KORN SHELL PROBLEMS

JUly 19, 1993 -- SEBASTOPOL, CA -- The Korn shell is the newest and most interesting of the "standard" UNIX shell programs. It combines the best features of the older Bourne and C shells, in addition to providing many new features of its own. To help users and programmers get the most out of the Korn shell, O'Reilly & Associates has published Learning the Korn Shell, by Bill Rosenblatt. It provides a guide to all aspects of Korn sell usage: interactive "command line" use, plus thorough coverage of shell programming.

The Korn Shell is completely compatible with the older Bourne shell, so readers could use it and pretend that nothing has changed. But if they really want to take advantage of the Korn Shell -- or if they've wanted to learn shell programming for a while, but procrastinated -- this is where to start. In addition to the basics of UNIX shell programming, Learning the Korn Shell explains ksh string operations, co-processes, signals and signal handling, and one of the worst "dark corners" of shell programming, command-line interpretation. It covers new features like command history, which allows readers to recall and re-use previous commands conveniently, and built-in pattern matching, arithmetic evaluation, and condition evaluation, which allow them to write much more efficient shell scripts.

Unlike existing Korn books, which tend to focus on ksh syntax, this newest O'Reilly Nutshell Handbook shows how to use the Korn shell to solve relatively sophisticated real-life programming problems. As an extended example of advanced shell programming, it contains kshdb, a Korn shell script that's a debugger for shell scripts. This book is a reliable resource for software developers who want to "prototype" their designs, system administrators who want to write tools for their own use, and even UNIX novices who just want to use some of ksh's more advanced interactive freatures.

As Appendix summarizes the differences between the Korn shell and the standard Bourne shell, the IEEE 1003.2 POSIX Shell Standard, the Windowing Korn shell (wksh), and such public domain versions as pdksh and bash.

Bill Rosenblatt is coauthor, with Deb Cameron, of the O'Reilly Nutshell Handbook Learning GNU Emacs. He is a software manager at Moody's Investors Service in New York and a writer for Sun World and other magazines. The book's editor is Mike Loukides, author of the acclaimed System Performance Tuning, also published by O'Reilly.

O'Reilly & Associates is recognized worldwide for its definitive books on UNIX, The X Window System, and the Internet. Working closely with developers of new technologies, O'Reilly's editors are "computer people" who use the software they write about. The company's planning and review cycles link together authors, computer vendors, and technical experts throughout the industry in a creative collaboration that mirrors the strengths of the "open systems" philosophy itself.

Learning the Korn Shell

By Bill Rosenblatt

338 pages, ISBN 1-56592-054-6, Price $27.95

Toll free order number: 800/998-9938

O'Reilly & Associates Inc

103 Morris St, Suite A, Sebastopol, CA 95472

707-829-0515,   fax 707-829-0104


Bitstream Adds 23 New Typeface Lib Designs
Bitstream Adds 23 New Designs to Its Typeface Library

Cambridge, Mass. (July 12, 1993)--Bitstream Inc. today announced the addition of 23 new typeface designs to the Bitstream Typeface Library (BTL).

Available immediately, the new designs come in fully-hinted PostScript Type 1 format for both the Macintosh and the IBM PC and will additionally be offered in TrueType format for the Microsoft Windows 3.1 environment by late summer.

The 23 latest additions to the Bitstream Typeface Library include the Bitstream Cataneo family of nine faces, an exciting new calligraphic typeface design in Light, Regular, and Bold weights with accompanying Swash and Extended character sets for each weight.

Also included among the 23 new typefaces are Formal 436 (Bitstream's version of Oscar), a calligraphic design in one weight; Geometric 885 (Bitstream's version of Bloc), a striking display face; and, to round out the selection of new designs, six weights of Humanist 777 (Bitstream's version of Frutiger); and five weights of Schadow.

Bitstream Cataneo: Swash Characters for Light, Regular, and Bold

Designed at Bitstream, the Cataneo family of typefaces was inspired by the work of Bernardino Cataneo, a mid-16th-century writing master at the University of Siena. The Cataneo family's prime designs are Cataneo Light, Cataneo Regular, and Cataneo Bold. Moreover, three additional character sets in the Cataneo family feature swash characters. These character sets are Cataneo Light Swash, Regular Swash, and Bold Swash. Swash characters are letters with an elongated or "flourished" stroke that adds a decorative element to a character. Cataneo's lowercase swash characters are particularly suited for adding an unusual accent to the end of a sentence or paragraph, and its swash capital letters with decorative extended strokes can be used to add unique typographic flair to the beginning of a sentence or a paragraph.

Cataneo: Extended Characters for Light, Regular, Bold; Uncommon Ligatures

Cataneo's Light, Regular and Bold Extension Sets offer a range of traditional ligatures, i.e. combinations of two characters, such as fi, ff, fl, ffi, and ffl, and diphthongs, such as ae and oe. Moreover, they boast uncommon ligatures for letter combinations such as Th, ct, st, and sp.

In addition, these three typefaces feature old-style numerals that have ascending and descending characters.

"Cataneo is a graceful Italic typeface," said Jacqueline Sakwa, of Bitstream, who worked with Rich Lipton in designing the Cataneo family. "We decided to develop this typeface because there wasn't an elegant chancery cursive font on the market. One of our goals was to translate the essence of Bernardino Cataneo's elegant, fluid style into a design that would be faithful to the original style, but still have the clean, spare character that today's market demands."

"The typefaces in our new Cataneo family are calligraphic faces that will allow users to add a touch of elegance to their documents, such as invitations," said Larry Oppenberg, vice president of Type Operations at Bitstream. "We expect these faces to be of interest to high-end typesetting houses, as well as to individuals who like to design formal documents themselves.

"We believe that the 23 new designs we've added to our Typeface Library are going to appeal to a wide audience of users because they offer a wide selection of top-quality sophisticated text and headline faces," Oppenberg said. "Moreover, with an introductory price of US $179 for the subtle elegance of the Bitstream Cataneo family, we believe our customers will be getting exceptional value."

The new Bitstream typeface designs are directly available from Bitstream at 1-800-522-FONT. Volume discounts and site licenses are available.

Headquartered in Cambridge, Mass., Bitstream Inc. is an industry leader in typographic quality and innovative printing technology. Bitstream licenses type and related software to more than 500 OEMs worldwide. The company's line of end user products for the Macintosh and PC platforms is distributed in the United States and in 18 nations around the world.

Bitstream Inc

215 First St, Cambridge, MA 02142-1270

617-497-6222,  fax 617-868-4732


Casa Blanca Works Brackets/Cables for New Macs
Casa Blanca Works Expands Hardware Line

Adds Brackets, Cables for New Macs and Printer

(Greenbrae, CA. July 7, 1993) Casa Blanca Works, Inc., of Greenbrae, CA announces the expansion and immediate availability of the CBWorks line of hard drive enclosures and internal mounting kits for the Macintosh. Targeted at resellers, IS managers, and VARs, the premium enclosures and internal bracket kits include Drive7 Lite universal drive management software. The resellers furnish and install their own fixed and removable drive mechanisms.

The U.S.-manufactured new cases complement the Powerbook and zero-footprint (ZFP) cases that Casa Blanca has been shipping since January, 1993. The new offerings bring the line to seven styles, including:

* Low-profile (10" x 10" x 2") ZFP case with an open front bezel and rear phono plugs for CD-ROM drives.

* Low-profile Mini-Case with a solid front bezel for 3.5" half-height hard drives. The slimline design measures only 8.5" x 6" x 2" high.

* Low-profile metal Mini-Case with a open front bezel for 3.5" optical drives by Sony, Epson, Matsushita and others.

Each of the above enclosures are shipped complete with a power cable, internal cables, stand-offs, push-button SCSI ID select switch, removable termination panel, Drive7 Lite and U.L./CSA-approved auto-switching 30-watt shielded power supply. Prices start at $72.00 for each, including Drive7 Lite. The company expects to ship a brick-size mini-case for the Fujitsu MD2511 and SyQuest S105 mechanisms by September.

The company also announced an expanded line of cables and brackets to mount drives in the newest Macintoshes and printers. These include U.S.-made custom metal stampings and molded bezels for Macintosh Quadra 800 and 950, Centris 610 and 650 as well as the LaserWriter Pro 630. Most bracket kits include the bracket, power cable, mounting screws, and SCSI ribbon cable. Centris and Quadra plastic bezels are now shipping for SyQuest and CD-ROM drives.

New low-cost double-shielded twisted pair premium cables include a PowerBook HDI-30/Centronics-50, SCSI Peripheral, and SCSI System. A limited supply of standard SCSI system cables are also available.

"For all of their external and internal hard drive upgrades, resellers and VARs have the opportunity to include a top-quality case, bracket, and drive management product with all their sales," said John Catalano, president of Casa Blanca Works. "Until now, they have had to rely on a limited line of generic cases, and with no recognized formatter. And as a bonus, their customers can upgrade to the top-rated universal formatter, Drive7 for only $29.95."

All enclosures include Drive7 Lite formatting software, a full-working version of Casa Blanca Works' Drive7, the popular universal hard drive formatting software. In recent reviews by user groups, MacWEEK, Macworld, and MacUser, Drive7 has been consistently rated as the top choice.

Casa Blanca Works Inc

148 Bon Air Center, Greenbrae, CA 94904

415-461-2227,  fax 415-461-2249


SSI Clash of Steel War Simulation Game
SSI BLITZKRIEGS COMPUTERS WITH COMPREHENSIVE SIMULATION OF WAR IN EUROPE

Sunnyvale, CA -- July 5, 1993 -- The war has begun, and Germany has blitzkrieged Poland and western Europe! In 1939, World War II swept across Europe in full force, and now SSI recreates the conflict in a fast-moving, easy-to-play combat simulation, Clash of Steel. The game spans the 1939 -1945 European theater and offers players unmatched depth and strategy in an uncomplicated and easy-to-understand format.

One or two players can enter the conflict, playing as the Axis or the Allies. All unit types from the actual war are represented on-screen, including tanks, paratroopers, engineers, air forces, and naval forces. Players carry out their actions in multiple-impulse turns, allowing them to take actions several times each turn, such as reinforcement, movement, and attacking. The dynamic multi-impulse system is generated randomly by the computer for added excitement.

Graphically, Clash of Steel ranks among the top war games. Detailed 256-color VGA graphics make the military units sharp and easy to read. From the steppes of Russia to the sands of North Africa, high-definition terrains are displayed on the tiles to put players in the middle of the action.

Clash of Steel is played with an easy-to-use interface which enables players to click on units, then drag-and-drop them into proper position. The map scrolls automatically for ease of interaction. The army/corp size scale of 20-30,000 men per unit further reduces the complexity. Game play detail includes realistic diplomacy tactics, weather conditions, and a full-fledged production system. Full sound support enhances the excitement. Shipping this June, Clash of Steel carries a $69.95 SRP.

Strategic Simulations, Inc. is one of the leading computer fantasy role-playing publishers and is most noted for its ADVANCED DUNGEONS & DRAGONS line of computer products. The company is recognized as the premier war game publisher and, based on industry rankings, is one of the top ten entertainment software publishers worldwide. SSI develops for the leading 16-bit and 32-bit systems, including IBM, IBM CD-ROM, Macintosh, Super Nintendo, Sega Genesis, and 3DO.

Stragetic Simulations Inc

675 Almanor Ave, Suite 201, Sunnyvale, CA 94086-2901

408-737-6800;  Fax: 408-737-6814


GIC-Software Interactive Word Games
GIC-Software is pleased to announce the signing of a national distribution agreement with Baker & Taylor Software of Simi Valley, California.

GIC's new genre of age-friendly interactive word games will now be available through Baker & Taylor's commercial distribution channels, as well as its educational and military outlets.

GIC-Software games are also available in custom configurations in all Tandy/Radio Shack stores across the country.

GIC-Software's new genre of age-friendly word games designed for people in all professions, and from ages 6 to 106, include;

Interactive Computer Crosswords. Not a set of puzzles, but an ever changing, challenging and mind stimulating interactive word game played against the computer or up to three other players, or teams, at the same time. No need for clues, the Player's the game.

LAPWORDS. A version of Interactive Crosswords that is designed especially for LapTop and Notebook computers. Looks great on LCD screens, and games can be saved to be completed at a later, more convenient, time. The player determines the length of the game along with other options. Vocabulary challenging.

GUESSwords. The player and computer at their best. The players choose the subject and the computer tries to baffle them. Always different, never the same. An age-friendly game for the whole family, something for everyone.

General Investments Corp

231 Nob Hill Way, PO Box 1353, Los Gatos, CA 95031

408-356-7208,  fax 408-356-3868


Matinee Windows Full-Motion-Video Screen Saver
Matinee, The First Full-Motion-Video Screen Saver,

Now Available in CD-ROM

BERKELEY, CA, May 24, 1993--Access Softek today announced the June release of the CD-ROM version of Matinee, its highly reviewed screen saver. The first full-motion-video screen saver for Windows 3.1, Matinee brings the software entertainment industry to a new standard in graphic realism. Until now, entertainment products were limited to bitmapped graphics that didn't satisfy the sophisticated visual expectations of the TV Generation. Matinee breaks the bitmap barrier and delivers the high-quality graphics that users expect. Using a powerful, new video compression technology, which requires no extra multimedia hardware, Matinee brings television-quality images to users' screens, while maintaining the fun, interactive features of good entertainment software. According to Access Softek's Product Marketing Director Ann Burgraff, "Full-motion video will shake up the $340 million entertainment software business. It's the most significant breakthrough since color."

Matinee's users create customized mini-movies by selecting from 38 full-color and black-and-white video clips. The new CD-ROM version includes over 250 clips, in categories ranging from bikinis and biceps to nostalgia, sci fi, horror, and more. From contemplative chimps to blood-hungry vampires, there are clips to satisfy every taste, mood, image or craving. Celebrate a success, for example, by launching a NASA rocket right on your screen. Let the deadly grin of a killer shark remind you of an upcoming deadline. Or indulge your secret ambitions: swing breathlessly through space with trapeze artists, claim the moon with Neil Armstrong, hang ten off the Hawaiian coast. Plus there are wacky cartoons, gorgeous go-go dancers, gruesome monsters and more.

Creating or changing a Matinee movie is as easy as using a mouse. Users simply drag and drop clips--in any order they choose--from the movie library to the movie film strip. There are no limits on the way clips can be displayed. Plus, Matinee's preview feature lets users double check selections before activating the screen saver. The product includes three stylish backdrops to personalize each mini-movie, and users can design their own displays by importing art. Matinee, which retails for $49.95, requires Windows 3.1, a 386SX/DX-based system with at least 20 MHz, and a 256-color display. Matinee for CD-ROM retails for $59.95 and requires a CD-ROM player. Clips can be installed onto the user's hard drive or played directly off the CDROM.

Founded in 1984, Access Softek was the third software company to release a Windows application and the first to develop an integrated Windows product line. In May 1993, the company released its line of Plug-In Components for Windows developers; available are components for WYSIWYG text editing, graphics import, and text import/export. Contract clients of Access Softek's component division include Microsoft, Aldus, Lotus, Micrografx, Quark, Claris, and other major software companies. Access Softek, 2550 Ninth Street, #206, Berkeley, CA, 94710. Telephone (510) 848-0606, fax 510-848-0608; CIS: 76702,776


Hamilton MarketWatch 2.0 Investment Analysis
HAMILTON SOFTWARE'S MARKETWATCH 2.0 MAKES ANALYZING INVESTMENTS A BREEZE

July, 1993-Hamilton Software Inc. has released Version 2.0 of its investment analysis program, MARKETWATCH, which provides investment analysis and market timing for individual investors. The new release provides expanded data tracking and more analysis tools, yet remains easy to use and affordably priced.

Like previous versions, MARKETWATCH 2.0 provides detailed evaluation and comparison of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, options, money markets, commodities, and market indices--wHhout requiring in-depth investment savvy or expensive on-line data.

Price and volume tracking has been expanded to allow high, low and open prices, which may now be updated with no required regularity or synchronization typically demanded by other technical analysis programs. Users are free to track investments according to any time interval--or at random--and still compare securities and indices directly. Both current and historical data (including distributions) can now be imported using Prodigy or virtually any other ASCII data source. Historical data in MARKETWATCH data format is also available directly from HSI for as little as $2 per stock.

New analysis tools provide more detailed investment evaluation and strategic signaling. Graphic displays now include high-low-close-volume, standard or logarithmic performance, daily and weekly moving averages with percentile bands, and candlesticks. Automatic alerts can now be set to notify the user of price range breakouts, and other features such as Yield and Trend allow comparison of an unlimited number of securities at once. An improved portfolio report breaks down allocation of investment holdings by type, industry, and nationally, and provides foreign currency translations.

MARKETWATCH 2.0 lists for $59 and is being offered to all current MARKETWATCH users as an upgrade for only $30. MARKETWATCH 2.0 is one of the complete line of investment programs available from Hamilton Software, Inc., 6432 East Mineral Place, Englewood, Colorado, 80112. HSI has specialized in providing investment software for PC users since 1984. An evaluation copy will be sent immediately to reviewing editors upon request.

System Requirements: IBM PC or PS/2, MS-DOS,

                     720K disk capacity

Orders or Information:  800-733-9607


The NFL Tracker, V3.4
The NFL Tracker - Version 3.4 Released

The NFL Tracker is a menu driven database program designed to assist with making predictions about the outcome of NFL football games. It is capable of holding the predictions of up to 99 individuals making it suitable for tracking and displaying results of participants in a football pool. Data entry is minimal and computer prediction algorithms approach 70% accuracy. Bar graphs, dynmamic light bar menus, and mouse support make the program very easy to use and configure. Registered users will receive a complete historical reference of all NFL games played since 1983, including playoffs.

Version 3.4 modificationa are very minor, but the demo database has been updated for the 1993 season which makes the prediction programs accurate for this season. The shareware program is fully functional, differing only from the registered version in terms of data content and presistent reminders to register.

Check usual shareware outlets and online systems for the version 3.4 release.

Micro Moonlighters

206-334-8243 Evenings


NoteWare V2.0 DOS Notepad Utility
NoteWare Version 2.0 Now Available (Shareware)

* The Ultimate DOS Notepad -- Simple, Powerful, Handy,

  Versatile!

* Unlimited number of screensize notes. Uses less than 16K!

* Captures text from any PC's screen for later review and

  editing.

* Boasts the best features of any TSR notepad:

  -- Full screen editor: cut, copy & paste,

     word wrap & text search

  -- Index of Notes: select notes from menu

  -- Importing/Exporting: full suite of options for text

     and file handling

  -- File/Directory viewer: view, search, capture any ASCII

     file on disk; allows use of DOS wildcards

  -- Note printing: easily print one or more notes

     on any printer

  -- Finishing Touches: auto-installation, user-selected

     hotkeys, laptop and CGA support, on-screen help, can

     be loaded into high memory

Registration cost is $25.00

Integrated Consulting

PO Box 1613, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92693

800-272-1377,  714-240-2092,  CIS: 72451,2217


STB Intros 24-bit PCI Graphics Accelerator
STB INTRODUCES 24-BIT PCI GRAPHICS ACCELERATOR

Pegasus PCI to offer 16.7 million colors at 1024x768, 80 Hz refresh rate

June 21, 1993 -- Richardson, Texas - STB Systems, Inc. has announced the release of the Pegasus PCI graphics accelerator card. The Pegasus PCI is a PCI Local Bus compatible graphics accelerator that is capable of displaying 16.7 million colors at resolutions of 640x480, 800x600 and 1024x768.

Based on the S3 86C928 video controller, the product will come in two standard configurations. The base configuration will be configured with 4 MG of VRAM and will support resolutions up to 1024x768 at 16.7 million colors and up to 256 colors at 1600x1200 (non-interlaced). The product will also be offered in a 2 MG configuration providing 65 thousand colors at 640x480 through 1024x768 resolutions and a maximum of 256 colors at 1280x1024 resolution. Refresh rates supported are 60, 72, 76 Hz and 80 Hz.

To simplify installation and provide easy access to configuration menus, the Pegasus PCI comes with a Winstall utility that makes it possible to change monitor resolution and color settings from a windows menu accessed by double clicking on an icon. The product will also include a PowerStar power management utility that will allow a user reduce their monitor's power usage after a specified time period. This utility works with monitors that support the new VESA specification for power reduction.

The Pegasus PCI will come standard with a BNC-style RGB connector and VGA 15-pin D-sub connector. The RGB connector transmits high integrity video signals and offers compatibility with high-end desktop publishing monitors. Both connectors will support variable and fixed frequency monitors.

The product will include drivers to support applications for Microsoft Windows 3.x and Windows NT, IBM's OS/2, SCO Open Desktop, Uniware, X-Windows, as well as major CAD/CAM platforms.

Pegasus PCI will be available in limited quantities in June and is scheduled to begin full production in July.

The powerful features and capabilities of the Pegasus PCI position this board against high-end boards based on the ISA-based TI 34020 co-processor (if they had a PCI version), which cost well over $2,000. The suggested retail price for the Pegasus PCI (PCI Local Bus) version is $799 for the 2MB version and $999 for the 4 MB version.

The Pegasus PCI offers users a higher level of performance than standard 1 and 2 MG DRAM graphics accelerators. "The Pegasus PCI provides the right combination of performance, color depth and open systems compatibility for users who expect more than hyped up Winmark scores from tests performed in 256 color modes", said Gary Kellar, Product Manager. Kellar defines the Pegasus PCI, "...as a board designed for power users who need maximum performance while working with 24-bit images at high resolutions".

Established in 1981, STB Systems, Inc. is the third largest manufacturer of video adapter products. STB manufactures an entire line of video adapters ranging from standard VGA, Super VGA and graphics accelerators to multiple video port (MVP) video adapters. STB products are available at major distributors, computer retailers and authorized dealers worldwide.

STB Systems Inc

1651 N. Glenville, Richardson, TX 75085-0957

214-234-8750,  fax 214-234-1306


ProActive Support Advantage for Help Desks
Boehringer Mannheim Goes Live with ProActive's Support Advantage for Client/Server Help Desk

MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA, July 6, 1993 - ProActive Software, Inc. today announced that Boehringer Mannheim Corporation (BMC), a $600 million U.S. medical equipment company, has licensed ProActive's client/server Support Advantage as an internal Information Systems Help Desk.

Support Advantage is the link between BMC's MIS department and 2,000 internal MIS customers at U.S. headquarters in Indianapolis, IN. The system tracks and solves nearly 2,000 monthly "cases" relating to any computer problem in the company. BMC implemented the system in only three months, and expects to recover its investment in ProActive by the end of this year. To-date, Support Advantage has increased call capacity by 50%, reduced backlog by over 150%, and is keeping the company's information infrastructure running smoother than ever before.

ProActive Software is a leading provider of client/server customer information systems. Support Advantage is one of several Customer Information Resource applications developed and marketed by ProActive for the management of customer information across the enterprise.

Before licensing Support Advantage, BMC used a home-grown, mainframe-based system written in a third generation programming language. According to Peter Van Dyke, BMC's Manager of Information Systems Administration, "Cases got misplaced, really critical cases were mixed with routine questions, and customers got frustrated explaining their problems over and over," said Van Dyke.

Tough Functional and Technical Requirements

BMC's decision to get a new Help Desk system was driven by the need for three factors: richer application functionality; a flexible, client/server distributed architecture; and a consulting services partner.

First, BMC wanted a modern system with historical data management and retrieval capabilities, automatic call notification and escalation, and call dispatching. This functionality would enable users to prioritize workloads, manage critical problems more effectively, and more efficiently track historical data relating to customer cases.

The second major requirement was support for a client/server, distributed environment. BMC had already migrated most of its mainframe systems to UNIX servers with Macintosh, X Windows and Microsoft Windows PC clients. The new Help Desk system had to have a true client/server foundation, and support for multiple user interfaces and the Sybase relational database. The system also had to be easy to customize.

Third, BMC needed an open system that could share data with other applications and expand to support other departments, such as field sales or quality assurance. The MIS team also wanted to work with a vendor that understood the business.

John Luongo, ProActive's president and chief executive officer, commented, "Boehringer Mannheim's requirements are similar to those of many other cross-industry organizations that select ProActive Software--a client/server system with extensive functionality, and a short timeframe in which to implement. BMC is taking a lead by using ProActive's products to improve internal customer satisfaction and streamline the management of its systems."

The Choice: ProActive Software

According to Van Dyke, "Thirty vendors were evaluated. The other products had limitations, and the expertise of those companies did not appear to be sufficient. There are a lot of Help Desk packages on the market, but none of them are built on a true client/server architecture."

BMC's Support Advantage was implemented on a Sun Sparc 670 server running Sybase connected to PCs clients running Microsoft Windows 3.1 and Sun workstations with Open Windows over a TCP/IP network. BMC plans to use Support Advantage on Macintosh computers this summer.

ProActive consultants came in over one weekend, helped the MIS team customize and define the workflow rules, and loaded the data into the new system. 'We had a tight time frame," said Van Dyke. "We installed in January and went live on March 1."

The Help Desk at Work

The MIS department consists of 75 specialists who specialize in several areas: mainframe and AS400 systems, networks, PC and Sun desktop hardware, Macintoshes, MAPPER, printers, PC software, and electronic mail. The new system's functionality is being applied in three areas: workflow, historical data management, and problem-solving.

Workflow Management

Support Advantage automatically dispatches incoming calls to the appropriate specialist. The system also escalates a case based on type, elapsed time and number of calls received. An automatic pager link 'beeps' the appropriate people to get on the case. This helps to prioritize the Help Desk's workload, saves time, and solves problems more efficiently.

Historical Data Management--BMC can keep accurate track of previously solved cases, and all associated documentation, calls, people, proposed solutions. Everything related to previous cases is available on-line for a quick status report.

Problem Solving Help--Support Advantage is building a library of problems and solutions that BMC can retrieve when similar calls come in. The Help Desk doesn't have to re-invent the wheel when customers call with a previously solved problem.

About ProActive Software

ProActive Software is the leading vendor of client/server customer information systems. The company develops and markets the CIR system, a family of integrated, enterprise-wide applications for customer support, sales, quality assurance, engineering, and help desk departments. These products give companies a competitive edge by delivering superior product quality and total customer satisfaction.

ProActive Software differentiates itself on the basis of world-class product functionality, superior client/server technology, and service industry expertise. Products are used within a broad range of industries including financial services, medical equipment, telecommunications, consumer products, and high technology.

ProActive Software, Inc.

1043 North Shoreline Blvd, Mountain View, CA 94043

415-691-1500,  fax 415-691-1515


Proxim & PI Systems Wireless Mobile Computing
PROXIM AND PI SYSTEMS ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP TO BRING WIRELESS MOBILE COMPUTING TO THE HEALTH CARE MARKET

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif, July 12, 1993 -- Proxim, Inc., the leading supplier of spread spectrum-based wireless networking products, today announced a business partnership agreement with PI Systems that will result in a family of new mobile information products that will incorporate Proxim wireless communications technology.

Under the terms of the agreement, PI will immediately begin building Proxim's ProxLink Radio Modules into its Infolio electronic clipboards to allow the clipboards to wirelessly communicate to a host database running MobileWare Server, PI Systems' server software. Ensuing products will incorporate Proxim's RangeLAN family of wireless LAN adapters into other PI Systems' mobile information hardware platforms. Proxim and PI Systems expect the new wireless systems to be available by October 1993.

"Proxim's alliance with PI Systems represents our continuing efforts to develop partnerships that will catapult Proxim into a market leading position with health care providers," said Rick Heller, Proxim's president and CEO. "Because PI Systems has made inroads in several health care industry segments, this partnership fits perfectly into our health care strategy."

"Establishing networking capabilities and real-time links to the mobile worker and mobile health care clinician is a critical way to increase productivity without hindering work flow," said Shyam Jha, director of strategic marketing for PI Systems Corporation. "By incorporating Proxim's wireless networking products, PI will continue to lead the health care, and specifically home health care, industry by offering unique mobile information solutions."

Benefits to an organization using this mobile information solution with wireless capabilities include the ability to transmit bi-directional data real time, reduce or eliminate paperwork, automate the patient record, and decrease the reimbursement cycle.

PI Systems Corporation, headquartered in Portland, Ore., provides information solutions that integrate mobile workers into existing enterprise information systems. PI Systems mobile client/server architecture includes MobileWare Client software, MobileWare Server software and Infolio 160 and 100 electronic clipboards. PI Systems began shipping production units in September 1992. Major partners include Motorola, Sun Microsystems, Calcomp, Sharp, Signatronics and Proxim.

Headquartered in Mountain View, Calif, Proxim was founded in 1984 to develop and market wireless communications products. The company entered the LAN market in early 1992 with its award winning RangeLAN family of wireless LAN products.

Proxim Inc

295 North Bernardo Ave, Mountain View, CA 94043

415-960-1630,  fax 415-964-5181


Object-Oriented Software Engineering

July 7, 1993 -- Lawrence, KS: R&D Technical Books has announced Object-Oriented Software Engineering, a new programming book by Steve Halladay and Michael Wiebel. This book will be released July 16, 1993, and is distributed exclusively worldwide by Prentice Hall.

Object-Oriented Software Engineering demonstrates how developers can engineer applications to minimize costs and manage all phases of the software lifecycle. The book includes a comprehensive example coded in C++. Halladay and Wiebel have studied how successful developers created OOP software, and then used their results to build a pragmatic, reliable OOP methodology.

Each chapter of Object-Oriented Software Engineering develops a different facet of the methodology by explaining the concepts and demonstrating them with examples. Chapters include "Requirements Gathering", "Object Specification", "White-box Testing", and "Coding Objects".

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.

Object-Oriented Software Engineering

Available July 1993,   358 pp.,  $29.95   ISBN:0-13-034489-3

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 Technical Books

1601 West 23rd St, Suite 200, Lawrence KS 66046

913-841-1631,  fax 913-841-2624


USR $200 Savings on 28.8Kbps V.FAST Tech
U.S. ROBOTICS OFFERS $200 SAVINGS ON ITU-TS 28.8 KBPS V.FAST TECHNOLOGY THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 1993

SKOKIE, Ill. -- July 2, 1993 -- U. S. Robotics, Inc., today announced a limited-time offer for a $99 upgrade to the ITU-TS (formerly CCITT) 28.8 Kbps/V.Fast standard with the purchase of a Courier modem. The offer gives Courier customers a $200 discount off the current upgrade price of $299. Upgrades will be available when the ITU-TS approves the 28.8 Kbps recommendation, expected in late 1993 or early 1994.

All Courier V.32 bis or Dual Standard internal and external modems, with and without fax, are included in this special offer. For any of these modems purchased by September 30, customers will receive a certificate for $200 off the price of the 28.8 Kbps/V.Fast upgrade. Upgrade certificates are available through U.S. Robotics resellers; they may also be requested directly from U. S. Robotics.

"We are committed to growing the very high-speed modem market -- this offer makes a V.Fast solution extremely affordable," said Marshall Toplansky, U.S. Robotics vice president of marketing. "Our solution not only lets our customers know up front how much this technology will cost and precisely how upgrades will be implemented, but also gives them an incredible value. The Courier V.32 bis modem, at a list price of $695, can be upgraded for $99, bringing the total cost of a V.Fast solution to less than $800 -- far less than most competitive products."

U.S. Robotics' advanced modular modem architecture allows the company's current Courier V.32 bis, Courier HST Dual Standard and Courier HST external desktop modems, plus all Shared Access products, to be easily upgraded to 28.8 Kbps. The modems contain a motherboard and a smaller daughterboard, which holds the microprocessors and firmware. This daughterboard can quickly be replaced with a new board containing the 28.8 Kbps technology. The upgrade procedure takes less than five minutes, and can be performed in the field by the user, reducing unnecessary "down" time and eliminating excess shipping and handling costs. U.S. Robotics is the only modem manufacturer to implement this kind of flexible design.

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, Illinois. U.S. Robotics owns and operates U.S. Robotics Ltd. in Slough, England, U.S. Robotics, s.a. in Lille, France and P.N.B., s.a. based in Suresnes, 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


Microsoft Visual Basic Workshop, Windows Ed.
Microsoft Visual Basic Workshop, Windows Edition

The Fastest Way to Create Applications for Windows with Microsoft Visual Basic for Windows 3.0

Newcomers to Windows-based programming and seasoned Basic professionals get a hands-on approach to developing Windows-based applications in the all-new edition of John Clark Craig's MICROSOFT VISUAL BASIC WORKSHOP.

This one-of-a-kind book-and-software package from Microsoft Press combines an introduction to programming in version 3.0 of Microsoft Visual Basic programming system for Windows with a comprehensive collection of more than 50 sample applications, including source-code and executable files. For example, the author incorporates helpful routines that demonstrate techniques for creating custom utilities and extending Visual Basic with custom controls and dynamic link libraries. Readers will also learn how to work with other applications using Object Linking and Embedding (OLE). Useful application examples include DRAGDROP, which demonstrates how to move onscreen objects around within programs, and NISTTIME, which synchronizes the computer's clock with an atomic clock in Denver, Colorado. These tools are ready to be run as stand-alone applications or to be integrated into programming projects.

With information in MICROSOFT VISUAL BASIC WORKSHOP, readers will learn how to use the exciting new features of Visual Basic 3.0 to:

* Acquire easy access to favorite data formats such as those for Microsoft Access, Paradox, FoxPro and dBASE database management system-- without writing any code--with the visual Data control.

* Easily add popup menus to applications.

* Extend Visual Basic with powerful custom controls.

* Boost performance by calling Windows API functions.

* Decrease development time with common dialogs.

Microsoft Windows operating system version 3.0 or later and an 80286 or higher processor are required, as well as at least 1 MB of memory. The book includes one 1.44MB 3.5-inch disk and ordering information for a 1.2-MB 5.25-inch disk. Microsoft Visual Basic is not necessary for running MICROSOFT VISUAL BASIC WORKSHOP applications, but it is required for programming projects.

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 at 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 Visual Basic Workshop, Windows Edition

by John Clark Craig

504 pages, one 3.5-inch disk, $39.95

ISBN: 1-55615-512-3

Pub. Date: July 7, 1993

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

206-882-8080


Warner Bros. Sound Effects Library on CD-ROM
Warner Bros. Sound Effects Library

The Animation Sound Effects Series That is Unforgettable!

Now for the first time Warner Bros. brings you, on 5 side-splitting CD's, hilarious sound effects that have helped make Warner Bros. cartoons so unforgettable for so many years.

There are over 1,500 digitally re-mastered effects, including special effects from Emmy Award winning sound designer, Russell Brower.

Each authentic sound selected from the Warner Bros. sound department has been carefully restored to provide you with outstanding digital sound quality.

Now you can offer your productions something very special with the famous and familiar sound effects associated with Warner Bros.; brought to you by Sound Ideas.

Call or fax today for more details.

Sound Ideas Sound Effects Library

105 West Beaver Creek Rd, Suite 4

Richmond Hill, Ontario CANADA L4B 1C6

416-886-5000,  fax: 416-886-6800

US: 800-387-3030;  CDN: 800-665-3000


ABCD A+ Service Technician Certification Pgm
ABCD ROLLS OUT A+ CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR MICROCOMPUTER SERVICE TECHNICIANS

Program supported by major vendors, resellers and distributors aims to improve service and increase consumer confidence by setting new standards for technical competency

April 27, 1993 -- LOMBARD, IL - abcd: The Microcomputer Industry Association today announced that testing and certification of microcomputer service technicians has begun under phase one of its A+ Certification Program -- the first industry-wide, vendor-independent certification program for the microcomputer industry.

Service technician certification is aimed at establishing a new microcomputer industry standard for technical competency. Subsequent phases of the A+ Certification Program will be targeted at certifying other jobs essential to the growth of the microcomputer industry.

"The A+ Certification Program, which is backed by many of the industry's largest vendors, resellers, publications and distributors provides significant benefits to all industry segments -- particularly our customers," said Richard Stopa, abcd chairman and vice president and assistant general manager, indirect operations division of Inacom Corp. "Phase one of the A+ Certification Program, through the testing of service technicians, will increase consumer confidence in the microcomputer industry and its distribution channels. As the first certification program that has invited total industry participation, we expect the A+ Certification Program to be an unqualified success.

"Surveys we conducted found that customers who are dissatisfied with service are usually vocal about their problems, killing repeat sales and putting a damper on referral business. The A+ Certification Program will help resellers and vendors to build repeat and referral business by assuring that customers are serviced right the first time," Stopa said.

More than 150 service technicians have already taken the beta test from Drake Training & Technologies, abcd's partner in developing and implementing the program. Drake, which has nearly 300 testing centers worldwide, is the leading supplier of computer-based examinations to the computer industry.

Widespread Industry Support

Nearly $500,000 has been contributed by industry leading companies to establish the A+ Certification Program. These companies are led by the following Cornerstone Sponsors: Apple Computer, COMPAQ Computer, CompuCom Systems, Inc., CompUSA, Computer Reseller News, Digital Equipment Corp., Exide Electronics, Hayes Microcomputer Products, JWP Information Services, Hewlett-Packard Company, IBM PC Company NA, Inacom, Ingram Micro, Intel Corp., Intelligent Electronics, Conner Storage Systems Group (formerly Maynard Electronics), MicroAge, NCR Corp., Packard Bell, PC Week, Tandy Services, Toshiba America Information Systems and US Robotics. Program Sponsors include Century Computer Marketing, Epson America, Okidata and Wurts and Associates.

Cornerstone Sponsors are those companies that have contributed the maximum dollar amount to the certification program as suggested by abcd, while Sponsors have donated lesser amounts.

abcd, The Microcomputer Industry Association

450 East 22nd St, Suite 230, Lombard, IL 60148-6158

800-333-9532


Industry Commitment to A+ Certification Pgm
INDUSTRY COMMITMENT TO A+ CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

April 27, 1993 -- Phase one of the A+ Certification Program, under which service technicians will be certified, has received the backing of many of the microcomputer industry's largest vendors and resellers in the form of dollars, time and commitment to implement the program.

Apple Computer, Inc.

Apple Computer, Inc. supports cross-company programs like A+ that establish qualification standards in the computer industry. Apple is encouraging employees who service equipment, and its reseller partners to use the A+ Certification Program to test the knowledge of service technicians.

COMPAQ Computer

COMPAQ Computer will require all phone support and case management personnel, as well as technical trainers and selected system engineer to be A+ Certified by October 1, 1993. COMPAQ will also require A+ Certification for new third-party service providers who become authorized after October 1,1993.

Digital Equipment Corp.

Beginning July 1, 1994, Digital Equipment Corp. will require all employees that service microcomputers and related hardware to become A+ certified, as well as all service technicians working for authorized service providers. In addition, service technicians at authorized reseller locations can test-out of required training by successfully passing the A+ exam. Digital will also require that service technicians submit warranty claims to be A+ certified before any claim is processed.

Epson America, Inc.

Beginning June 1, 1993, Technicians at new authorized service centers must be A+ Certified prior to attending required service training seminars. In addition, by October 1,1993, technicians must be A+ Certified prior to enrolling in Epson service training seminars. As of April 1, 1994, all Epson trained technicians at existing authorized service center must be A+ Certified in order for these service centers to maintain their authorized status.

Hewlett Packard Company

Service technicians at HP authorized reseller locations can test-out of required training for LaserJet Basics and PC Basics by passing the A+ Certification Exam.

Intelligent Electronics

Intelligent Electronics will recommend and encourage all resellers to require A+ Certification for new hires with no experience and other technicians with less than two years experience.

Intel Corp.

Intel Corp. will require some of its service technicians to be A+ Certified and recommends that its external service providers do the same.

NCR Corp.

NCR will recognize A+ Certification as equivalent to completing either NCR's PC Systems course or the company's PC Systems Course equivalency exam. NCR will also require new service technicians to be A+ Certified in future expansion programs.

Okidata

All technical personnel within Okidata's Customer Service Group will be required to have A+ Certification by April 1994. Okidata's Elite service centers will be required to have A+ Certified technicians at each location by December 1993, while authorized service dealers will be required to have A+ Certified technicians at each location by December 1994.

Packard Bell

Packard Bell expects all employees who service microcomputers and related hardware to become A+ Certified by December 31, 1993. In addition, all new service employees will be have to pass the A+ Certification Exam within 90 days. All service technicians who work for the company's authorized service providers must be A+ Certified by April 30, 1994. The company plans to implement the A+ Certification Program worldwide.

Tandy Services

Tandy Services expects all of its employees that service microcomputers and related hardware to become A+ Certified by December 31, 1994.

U.S. Robotics

U.S. Robotics will require all of its employees that service microcomputers and related hardware to become A+ Certified by May, 1994.

abcd, The Microcomputer Industry Association

450 East 22nd St, Suite 230, Lombard, IL 60148-6158

800-333-9532


Microsoft Mail for Windows Step by Step
Self-Paced Training Courseware from Microsoft Press

Microsoft Mail for Windows Step by Step

Covers versions 3.0b and later and Microsoft Schedule+

Training yourself, your company, or your customers just got easier with MICROSOFT MAIL FOR WINDOWS STEP BY STEP--the new book-and-disk self-paced training courseware from Microsoft Press.

Now there's an alternative to traditional classroom training with this timesaving, cost-effective training tool. Newcomers to Microsoft Mail for Windows will be amazed at how quickly they'll be able to simplify their work, organize their work flow, and increase productivity. There's less downtime because users can learn right at their own desks. It's the perfect solution for today's on-the-go business people.

Each lesson is generously illustrated with real-world examples and fully integrated with the practice files on disk. Readers can compare their results and track their progress for each lesson. Each progressive lesson builds on concepts presented in previous lessons. Readers will learn to use Microsoft Mail for Windows version 3.0b and Microsoft Schedule+ to:

* Integrate Microsoft Mail with other office applications

* Include documents, spreadsheets, and graphics in outgoing mail

* Schedule meetings with Microsoft Schedule+

* Organize messages in folders

* And much, much more

MICROSOFT MAIL FOR WINDOWS STEP BY STEP is also easily adaptable for use in an instructor-led classroom setting. Lessons can be easily customized to fit the needs of a special software training curriculum in a small-business or corporate training facility. Appendixes discuss keyboard equivalents, working offline, and communicating with other systems using Microsoft Mail and Microsoft Schedule+. A glossary makes looking up terms easy, and the comprehensive index helps students and instructors quickly find information on any topic in the book.

Microsoft Windows operating system version 3.0a or later and Microsoft Mail version 3.0b or later are required. Microsoft Schedule+ is optional. The book includes one 720-KB 3.5-inch disk and ordering information for a 1.2-MB 5.25-inch disk.

MICROSOFT MAIL FOR WINDOWS STEP BY STEP joins the growing family of self-paced training products available from Microsoft Press. Microsoft Excel Step by Step--the first official Microsoft courseware product from Microsoft Press won the 1991 "Best Introductory How-To Book" award from the prestigious Computer Press Association. Other book-and-software packages in the Step by Step series include Microsoft Excel for the Macintosh Step by Step, Microsoft FoxPro for Windows Step by Step, Microsoft FoxPro for MS-DOS Step by Step, Microsoft Word for Windows Step by Step, Microsoft Project for Windows Step by Step, Microsoft Access for Windows Step by Step, Microsoft MS-DOS 6 Step by Step, Microsoft PowerPoint for Windows Step by Step, Microsoft Windows 3.1 Step by Step, Microsoft Word for MS-DOS Step by Step, Microsoft Excel Macros Step by Step, and the forthcoming Microsoft Windows NT Step by Step.

Based in Bellevue, Washington, Catapult, Inc., is a national software-training company dedicated to providing the highest quality application software training. Catapult's contribution to the Step by Step series from Microsoft Press is based on their proprietary Performance-Based Training Program for adult learning.

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 at 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 Mail for Windows Step by Step

by Catapult Inc

224 pages, one 3.5-inch disk, $24.95

ISBN: 1-55615-571-9

Pub. Date: July 27, 1993

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

206-882-8080


Running Microsoft FoxPro for Windows

The Microsoft Guide to Learning and Using the High-Performance Database Management System for Windows

RUNNING MICROSOFT FOXPRO FOR WINDOWS--the easy-to-understand guide to the leading dBASE compatible database management system (DBMS) for Windows is now available from Microsoft Press.

Microsoft FoxPro version 2.5 for Windows is an exciting advancement in Windows-based database management technology. Its lightning fast speed and the powerful Xbase language that controls it allow database users unprecedented performance and flexibility.

In RUNNING MICROSOFT FOXPRO FOR WINDOWS, PCMagazine contributing editor and database expert Sal Ricciardi shows how the speed and power of this state-of-the-art software can be put to use by those with little or no DBMS experience--without sacrificing performance. Readers will discover key techniques to help them start building interesting and rewarding database projects right away. Whether it's a detailed explanation of database design or a quick look-up for a procedure using one of the sophisticated query tools of FoxPro, this hands-on guide to Microsoft FoxPro version 2.5 for Windows is packed with answers. Each chapter clearly introduces at least one key topic and practical examples reinforce concepts and correct procedures. Hundreds of screen illustrations show exactly how the reader's computer screen should look as they follow the examples. And when they're ready to move on to more advanced topics, FoxPro users will find tips, strategies, and solutions often not found in the product documentation. It may be the only guide users of FoxPro will ever need. Readers get expert information and advice about:

* The basics of FoxPro--planning and creating databases; adding, editing, and deleting records; and creating multi-table databases.

* Using graphical tools and features in FoxPro, such as the Command window, Browse window, and Relational Query By Example window.

* Understanding advanced features like importing and exporting data between FoxPro and other applications. designing and creating sophisticated queries and reports, and understanding FoxPro programming language basics.

A comprehensive table of contents and a thorough, fully cross-referenced index help readers quickly locate information about any topic in the book.

PCMagazine readers have enjoyed Sal Ricciardi's database management articles for years. In addition to his work at PCMagazine, he has written for Home Office Computing, PC Sources, PC Week, and many other publications. He has programmed in many different PC languages, developed database applications, installed local area networks, developed mainframe software, and worked as a consultant. This is his first book for Microsoft Press.

RUNNING MICROSOFT FOXPRO FOR WINDOWS is the newest Microsoft authorized software guide in the Running series from Microsoft Press. Other titles include the classic Running MS-DOS by Van Wolverton, the bestselling Running Microsoft Excel from The Cobb Group, Running Windows 3.1 by Craig Stinson, Running Word for Windows by Russell Borland, Running Visual Basic for Windows by Ross Nelson, and Running Microsoft Access by John Viescas.

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

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ "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.

Running Microsoft FoxPro for Windows

by Sal Ricciardi

528 pages, $24.95

ISBN: 1-55615-553-0

Pub. Date; June 30, 1993

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

206-882-8080


Foundation Builds Client/Server Customer System
COMPRECARE BUILDS CLIENT/SERVER CUSTOMER SYSTEM WITH FOUNDATION FOR COOPERATIVE PROCESSING

DENVER, July 12, 1993 -- COMPRECARE Health Care Services, one of the largest health maintenance organizations (HMO) in Colorado, has built an advanced client/server customer service application using the next-generation version of FOUNDATION for Cooperative Processing (FCP), the client/server development tool set from FOUNDATION, an Andersen Consulting software organization.

The recently completed application automates the distribution, tabulation, management and analysis of an ongoing survey of COMPRECARE customers. The survey is designed to identify and manage problems in health care provided by COMPRECARE physicians. Physician pay and credentialing are influenced by the survey, which covers such issues as effectiveness and timeliness of care, office atmosphere, billing and reporting of test results and diagnoses.

The company currently has 180,000 customers -- or "members" -- and will expand to more than 300,000 after merging this summer with TakeCare of Colorado Inc., the Colorado affiliate of a California-based managed care company. Using the new system, marketing staffers will survey approximately 10,000 members annually.

"The new release of FCP enabled us to quickly and easily build a client/server system that will dramatically improve our staff productivity and our ability to assess COMPRECARE service," said Dan Spirek, Senior Business Analyst, COMPRECARE. "Based on our initial results, we project a 25 percent increase in productivity from our survey staff. Qualitatively, we can more quickly and easily identify areas of service that need improvement. Overall, we have a much better idea of how COMPRECARE members feel about us as a company and about their individual physicians."

A team of seven COMPRECARE systems developers completed the five month development project in May 1993 using five advance copies of the next generation version of FCP, which was introduced to the general market also in May. The project consumed approximately 2,300 man-hours of work.

The new system enables a group of eight COMPRECARE staff to enter results directly on IBM OS/2 Personal Computers, which are networked via Novell's Netware to an IBM OS/2 file server that collects and analyzes survey results and helps administer the survey process. The new system also interacts with COMPRECARE's corporate network of VAX minicomputers from Digital Equipment Corp.

Spirek said the old, mainframe-based survey system depended heavily on manual re-entry of data. The new system, on the other hand, is almost entirely automated, resulting in a more accurate and balanced survey. For example, the system ensures that doctors are assessed fairly by evenly assigning calls to patients of COMPRECARE physicians. "If one doctor has had surveys from 50 patients and another only 10, the system will automatically compensate," Spirek explained.

Other benefits of the new system include:

* on-line workflow management of calls by call status first, followup, or interrupted call) o on-screen script for new staff to follow while conducting the survey

* tracking of individual and staff productivity by totaling number of calls and completed surveys

* analysis of the quality of care delivered by COMPRECARE physicians individually or on a group basis, helping improve existing care and the development of new services

Spirek said a key advantage of the new version of FCP is its fully integrated LAN-based Repository. The Repository enabled networked workgroups of COMPRECARE developers to centrally store design components as business and application objects. This ensures consistency and allows for reuse of objects or entire pieces of applications in other parts of the system or for future development projects.

In addition, FCP utilizes advanced Windows-based development screens, which Spirek called "a very strong GUI development environment."

"We selected FCP because it's the only complete client/server development solution on the market," Spirek said. "FCP's message-based communications capability removed much of the complexity of building client/server systems, such as partitioning data and processing among clients and servers, enabling us to focus on what the application does rather than how it would do it."

COMPRECARE's development work began with the FOUNDATION Starter Kit, which combines preliminary development software, sample source code, methodology, training and on-site assistance. The Starter Kit enabled COMPRECARE to develop pilot client/server applications at minimal risk before expanding implementation. Spirek said that after successfully completing initial project work, the organization has made plans to complete the application with FCP in the future as COMPRECARE information systems resources become available.

Founded in 1974, COMPRECARE is the second largest HMO in Colorado, serving more than 180,000 members. The company recently announced it will merge with TakeCare of Colorado Inc., the Colorado affiliate of a California-based managed care company. The merger, expected to take place in mid-summer, will result in the largest HMO in Colorado, with more than 300,000 members.

FOUNDATION introduced its initial client/server development product, FOUNDATION for Cooperative Processing, in April 1991. The product is being used in strategic client/server development projects by more than 2,800 developers at 70 companies worldwide, including Mortgage Guaranty Insurance Corporation, Sprint Corporation, the State of North Carolina and British Columbia Gas.

Andersen Consulting is an international management and technology consulting organization with more than 26,000 persons in 151 offices and 47 countries. The organization helps its clients link technology, strategy, processes and people.

Andersen Consulting

69 West Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602

312-580-0069


MEI Salons Choose MicroBiz Hair & Nail Salon
MEI Salons Choose MicroBiz

After a careful review of over 22 Point-of-Sale packages that took more than 3 months, MEI Salons, operators of over 2,000 salons nationwide, has decided on The MicroBiz Corp.'s Hair & Nail Salon Controller. According to Hal Stiles, MEI chose MicroBiz based upon its "rich suite of features, its price, performance and the excellent references and standing within the industry." "It is no surprise that the largest salon operator in America chose the nation's leading point-of-sale developer, for their business automation solution." - K.Phelan, VP of Research and Development.

It was reported that inventory control, employee tracking and salon service profitability are paramount in MEI's quest to improve margins and profits. "MicroBiz is proud to have a role in helping MEI attain its financial goals," said Richard Rubin, VP of Marketing. "Our company mission is to increase profitability of our clients' businesses through automation," he said, "MEI has recognized how technically sound and easy to use our products are. Matching our product to their needs was simple. We expect the program to be a great success." MicroBiz will be using its nationwide network of 4000 resellers to assist in the implementation.

MicroBiz Corp

914-425-9500,  fax 914-425-4598


Imagine/CUA Report & Query Tool
COMPUTER CORPORATION OF AMERICA SHIPS IMAGINE/CUA

Report and Query Tool Lets PC Users Pull Data From Various Sources for Fast, Easy Reporting

Cambridge, MA--July 12, 1993--Computer Corporation of America (CCA, a Praxis International Inc. company, announced today that it is shipping Imagine!CUA, a query and report tool that lets PC users pull mainframe data from various sources, and download it to a PC for custom report writing and use in desktop applications. Imagine/CUA is compatible with DB2., SQL/DS, DL/I, IMS, Model 204, VSAM, SAM and other popular databases.

With the announcement of Imagine/CUA, Praxis International and Computer Corporation of America take the lead in providing open system, client/server solutions for corporate-wide data needs. Imagine/CUA is the first report and query tool to provide seamless access to all of the standard mainframe database management systems.

In today's computing environments, important data may be spread out over a diverse set of databases. Traditionally, employees had to rely on database managers or MIS professionals to run complex programs and generate reports, placing a tremendous strain on systems managers. With Imagine/CUA, even non-technical users can define a report format, designate needed data on their PC screen, and transparently access the mainframe to gather data from various databases. The end user does not need to know the underlying structure or even which database contains the data.

"Imagine/CUA gives users throughout an organization a window into corporate data. It shields the average business user from the complexity of mainframes and multiple-database networks, while putting the power of vast amounts of data directly into their hands," said Jeanne Friedman, Vice President of Marketing for CCA.

With Imagine/CUA, systems administrators can provide direct end-user access without losing control over crucial data. Security features ensure that system administrators keep complete control over data and user access.

Features

* Seamless Integration of Diverse Data Sources -- Users transparently access data from a variety of mainframe databases, including DB2, SQL/DS, DL/I, IMS/DB, Model 204, VSAM, SAM and many others.

* Comprehensive Set of Query and Reporting Functions -- For querying, users can define titles, page headers and footers, multiline formats, and sort and select criteria. For reporting, Imagine/CUA provides automatic summary statistics, such as totals, averages, maximums, minimums and counts. Reports and queries can also include conditional logic and calculations such as percentages. Report output can be printed on a mainframe or CICS printer, downloaded and distributed over a LAN.

* Windows Graphical User Interface -- Using a mouse, users can define queries easily and quickly with a special report definition editor. The editor allows users to see what the report output will look like as it is defined (column locations, header and trailer textual information, etc.); it is not necessary to run the report to see what the output will look like. Once output is generated, the data is automatically available on the PC and can be copied and posted into other Windows applications such as a word processor or spreadsheet. Output may also be defined in a special "record format," such as Comma Delimited Format, and saved in a PC data file for subsequent processing by other PC applications.

* Security -- Imagine/CUA provides comprehensive data security features. "Userviews" let systems administrators define the data that each user or group of users can see. Data can be protected down to the individual field level. This ensures data integrity and also prevents users from accidentally conducting queries against huge data sets that may shut down critical mainframe operations. In addition, Imagine/CUA can be integrated with several industry-standard security packages, such as ACF2, RACF and Top Secret.

* On-line Help -- On-line help is available throughout Imagine/CUA, eliminating dependence on paper manuals and interruptions to work flow.

Availability

Imagine is available now. System requirements include:

* Imagine on the mainframe (MVS or VSE)

* Microsoft Windows 3.1 with 1.5 MB available memory

* Microsoft Windows 3270 Emulator

  (e.g. IRMA, Rumba, Attachmate, IBM)

Headquartered in Cambridge, MA, Computer Corporation of Americas was founded in 1965. In 1992, CCA became a Praxis International company. The company has offices across North America and international operations that support customers in more than 20 countries. Praxis is committed to providing products and services that enable organizations to use information for strategic advantage.

Praxis International Inc

Four Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA 02142-1489

617-661-9790,  fax: 617-497-1072


Mitsubishi Intros 3rd Generation Monitors
MITSUBISHI ELECTRONICS INTRODUCES THIRD GENERATION LINE OF FLAT SQUARE COLOR MONITORS

CYPRESS, Calif., July 15, 1993 -- The Display Products group of Mitsubishi Electronics America, Inc. today introduced a new line of three high-resolution color monitors featuring flat square cathode ray tubes (CRT). More than six years ago, Mitsubishi developed and introduced flat square monitors and is now the first leading color monitor manufacturer to incorporate third generation technology in its new line, which includes the Diamond Scan 15FS, the Diamond Scan 17FS and the Diamond Pro 21FS.

With the introductions, Mitsubishi offers the marketplace the most diverse monitor product line available. Mitsubishi's product line includes models with conventional spherical and vertically flat, square-cornered Trinitron CRTs, as well as the new flat square technology.

"The introduction of our third generation flat square line reaffirms our technology leadership role and enhances our ability to provide customers with a wide selection of products to fit their needs," said Craig Sloss, product marketing manager.

The monitors feature a flat square CRT with an Invar mask for sustained high brightness levels without the adverse effects of doming. Because of their flatter face-plates, flat square monitors offer a higher degree of visual acuity and glare reduction, which provides a sharper image for applications ranging from windowing environments to CAD/CAM/CAE.

"Mitsubishi's new flat square line delivers an increasingly popular CRT type, high quality and performance, a wide range of the most sought-after features and one of the best service and support programs in the business with the high reliability for which Mitsubishi Electronics earned its reputation," said Sloss.

Each of the models in the flat square line features an ultra-fine 0.28 mm dot pitch; a VGA-compatible signal cable with Apple Macintosh II, LC and Quadra adapters available at no charge; two-year parts/labor warranty and an ergonomically-designed, compact enclosure with a tilt-swivel base. To provide the highest levels of display accuracy, the new 17-inch and top-of-the-line 21-inch models employ Dynamic Beam Forming, which reduces the image distortion found at the edges of any monitor not equipped with this feature. The three monitors also meet international guidelines for low magnetic emissions.

The monitors feature easy-to-operate, microprocessor-based user controls located on the front panel. The digital scan mode memory stores a mixture of factory preset and user-definable set-up parameters for 10 to 20 different operating frequencies (depending on the model), with display parameters remaining constant when switching between frequencies. User controls also adjust brightness, contrast, vertical size and position, horizontal size and position, factory preset recall, degauss and pincushion.

DIAMOND SCAN 15FS

"In the popular 15-inch category, the Diamond Scan 15FS will appeal to general business Windows and Macintosh users who want a very high quality flat square monitor at a competitive price," said Sloss. The monitor features a maximum high refresh flicker-free resolution of 1024 x 768 at 76 Hz non-interlaced with an MPU-based auto-scanning range of 30 to 62 kHz.

The unit also supports all IBM-compatible VGA, SVGA, XGA-2 (including flicker-free VESA standards) and Apple Macintosh LC, Macintosh II and Quadra (832 x 624) graphics standards. The monitor is also equipped with a high-contrast, anti-glare CRT for a more pleasing viewing surface. The Diamond Scan 15FS is available at a suggested retail price of $645.

DIAMOND SCAN 17FS

For general business, desktop publishing (DTP), multi-media and cost conscious CAD/CAM/CAE users who require a high-performance monitor with a larger viewing area than a 14- or 15-inch, the Diamond Scan 17FS provides high refresh flicker-free resolutions up to 1280 x 1024 at 74 Hz non-interlaced. The monitor's MPU-based auto-scanning range of 30 to 78 kHz is compatible with all VGA, SVGA, XGA-2, VESA, Apple Macintosh LC, Macintosh II and Quadra graphics standards. The Diamond Scan 17FS is also equipped with Mitsubishi Electronics' exclusive Diamond Match Color Calibration System, which stores up to three different factory-aligned or user-definable sets of color temperature parameters to provide precise control of on-screen colors to match hardcopy or Pantone colors in desktop publishing or broadcast graphics applications.

The unit is also the first to feature Mitsubishi's exclusive new optical quality anti-static and anti-glare coating on a high-contrast tinted CRT. "With the Diamond Scan 17FS, Mitsubishi presents customers with a high performance, flat square alternative to our highly-acclaimed Diamond Pro 17. In addition, the unit can be sold in volume to corporations for under $1,000*, which is a critical price point for Windows upgrades," said Sloss. The suggested retail price for the Diamond Scan 17FS is $1,299.

DIAMOND PRO 21FS

Offering the highest levels of monitor performance, including a maximum resolution of 1600 x 1280 non-interlaced, the Diamond Pro 21FS is equipped for advanced CAD/CAM/CAE and DTP applications. With an MPU-based autoscanning range of 30 to 78 kHz, the monitor is compatible with all current and proposed VGA, SVGA, XGA-2, VESA, Apple Macintosh LC, Macintosh II and Quadra graphics standards, as well as all UNIX workstations. The monitor also features Mitsubishi's new optical quality, high contrast, anti-static and anti-glare CRT coating.

"For the past five years, Mitsubishi Electronics has been the leader in the 20- to 21-inch monitor category. With the Diamond Pro 21FS, we are able to offer five application-specific products in this size class and continue our leadership position," said Sloss. The Diamond Pro 21FS is available at a suggested retail price of $2,999.

All three models are currently available to resellers through authorized Mitsubishi Display Products distributors in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Mitsubishi Display Products, 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 monitor manufacturers to offer all CRT types, including large screen, 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 Drive, Cypress, CA 90630

714-220-2500,  fax: 714-229-3854,  800-843-2515


Prentice Hall Prof Swr Changes for Growth
PRENTICE HALL PROFESSIONAL SOFTWARE ANNOUNCES MANAGEMENT CHANGES AND STRATEGIC ALLIANCES TO POSITION COMPANY FOR MORE GROWTH

ATLANTA, July 12 -- Prentice Hall Professional Software today announced the appointment of several key management personnel, as well as numerous strategic partnerships, designed to tighten its focus and position it for future growth.

"These significant changes mark a movement forward for the company and will help improve our research and development methodology, including internal controls and processes," said Edwin "Dee" Goodnight, president of Prentice Hall Professional Software. "Specifically, we are refining the skill sets of our personnel in an effort to begin developing software for the Windows operating system. Furthermore, we are expanding our services through strategic partnerships by offering additional productivity tools to our customers, such as financial planning software and laser printers."

Prentice Hall recently announced a new agreement with Microsoft Corporation that will bring its core products for the real estate management market to Windows. The company plans to develop Windows versions of its software for the CPA market as well.

Executive Appointments

Mr. Goodnight announced several executive appointments that will strengthen Prentice Hall in both the CPA and real estate markets.

Terri Whitesel, formerly the marketing manager for Prentice Hall, has been promoted to director of sales and marketing. Prior to joining Prentice Hall Professional Software in January 1992, she was a free-lance marketing consultant specializing in the development and implementation of integrated sales, marketing and promotional programs for a variety of consumer and business-to-business products in Atlanta. In her new position, Ms. Whitesel will establish new sales goals and implement a variety of new marketing activities for Prentice Hall's CPA products geared toward expanding the company's market share.

Ms. Whitesel holds a bachelor's degree from Wright State University and is an active member of the American Marketing Association, the American Management Association, and the Business Professional Advertising Association.

Tom O'Neill, who has directed the development of Prentice Hall's Software 1040 system for the past several years, has been named director of tax product development for Prentice Hall Professional Software. Mr. O'Neill joined Prentice Hall in September 1981 after spending two years as a field agent for the IRS, where he worked on individual and corporate tax returns. Mr. O'Neill will be responsible for the development and maintenance of The Prentice Hall Tax Advantage System, the company's complete line of individual and business tax products.

Mr. O'Neill is a licensed CPA holding a master's degree in business administration from Boston University. He also completed a bachelor's degree in public accounting from the State University of New York at Albany.

Lynn McKinney, who most recently directed the development of Prentice Hall's Practice Advantage time and billing system, has been appointed the director of Prentice Hall's accounting software development. Ms. McKinney has served six years with Prentice Hall in a variety of increasingly responsible development positions. In her new role, she will be responsible for the development and maintenance of all Prentice Hall accounting products, including the company's new plans for Windows. Her appointment allows for a more coordinated development plan.

Ms. McKinney is a licensed CPA holding a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of Georgia.

Catherine Cage has been appointed the new sales manager for Prentice Hall's real estate management group. She joins the company after serving as a contract trainer for Wilson Learning, where she specialized in training negotiating techniques to upper and middle management. As a past national sales manager and general manager for Prentice Hall's real estate products group, she brings a wealth of experience to her new role.

Ms. Cage will lead Prentice Hall's effort to expand sales in the commercial real estate market, as well as continue to increase the company's presence in the residential market. She will be instrumental in the company's effort to penetrate the real estate market with its new line of products for use with Windows.

Ms. Cage attended Harvard University and the University of Texas, where she majored in accounting. She also holds her real estate license.

Partnership Agreements

In addition to the Microsoft agreement, arrangements with Hewlett Packard, Granville Publications Software, and Wallace Computer Services have positioned Prentice Hall to offer its customers special values on laser printers, Up Your Cash Flow financial planning software, and a comprehensive office supplies catalog containing over 8,000 items.

"By offering these additional products and services to our customers, we can offer them the convenience of one-stop shopping for not only their accounting and tax software needs, but also a growing list of tools designed to improve the profitability and efficiency of their firms," said Goodnight.

The agreements with Hewlett Packard allow Prentice Hall to offer its customers HP LaserJet 4 and LaserJet 4Si printers. Accountants can use the laser printers with Prentice Hall software to produce tax returns, billing invoices, W-2s and 1099s, financial statements, and more.

Up Your Cash Flow, from Granville Publications Software, gives Prentice Hall customers the chance to provide a new service for their clients, cash flow planning. The system features profit and loss forecasting/budgeting, cash flow forecasting, projected balance sheet, "what if" analysis, and more.

Prentice Hall and Wallace Computer Services have teamed up to offer accountants and real estate management professionals the convenience of ordering office supplies at lower, maximum quantity prices, regardless of the quantity ordered. Supplies may be ordered via a toll-free number and shipped within 24 hours.

Prentice Hall Professional Software is also beginning to link with other Paramount Publishing units to offer accountants special discounts on accounting and computer books. The accounting books offer professionals everything needed to design, test and install accounting systems, as well as answers to questions on cost accounting, internal controls, and more. The computer books are designed to get users up and running on a variety of commonly used software products, such as WordPerfect and Lotus 1-2-3.

Focus Groups Established

Prentice Hall also announced the establishment of new focus group panels consisting of Prentice Hall customers and non-customers in accounting practices. According to Mr. Goodnight, the focus groups were formed to improve business relationships and test market its product offerings, marketing strategies, and promotional activities.

Prentice Hall Professional Software is an industry leader in professional accounting, tax, and real estate management software, serving more than 12,000 customers. The company is a member of the Software and Information Services Division of Paramount Publishing's Business, Technical and Professional Group. Paramount Publishing, the publishing operation of Paramount Communications Inc., is engaged in educational, professional and consumer publishing worldwide. Prentice Hall Professional Software can be contacted at P.O. Box 723597, 2400 Lake Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 31139 or by telephone at (800) 241-3306, or in Atlanta at (404) 432-1996.


First-Ever Photoshop Conference, Jan 24-26
First-Ever Photoshop Conference To Be Held in San Francisco

January 24-26, 1994

SEATTLE, WA-July 14th, 1993-Thunder Lizard Productions, the team that brought you the very successful PageMaker conferences in Boston and Seattle, is now presenting The Photoshop Conference, January 24-26, 1994, at the Sheraton Palace, San Francisco.

Speakers such as Adobe senior art directors Russell Brown and Luanne Cohen, HSC president Kai Krause, and authors David Biedny and David Blatner are already on the conference lineup. Sessions include special talks on Photoshop for photographers, prepress specialists, and people working in multimedia. Also, Photoshop developers and programmers will be on hand to discuss technical issues such as hardware and memory management.

"This is really more of a summit than just a conference," Thunder Lizard Productions president Steve Roth noted recently. "We're bringing together the best in the business to discuss, teach, and explore this incredibly deep program."

Thunder Lizard Productions

4021 Aurora Ave North, Seattle, WA 98103

800/221-3806 or 206/633-3431. Fax: 206/633-0153.


Genesis Jack Nicklaus Power Challenge Golf
JACK NICKLAUS' POWER CHALLENGE GOLF

GOLF JUST ISN'T FOR ADULTS ANYMORE!

IT'S NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE SEGA-GENESIS

Category: Golf Simulation

Price and Availability: Sega Genesis - $59.95

SAN JOSE, Calif.-JULY 9, 1993--Accolade, publishers of the award-winning line of Jack Nicklaus computer golf simulations, today announced the release of Jack Nicklaus' Power Challenge Golf, the company's first golf simulation for the Sega Genesis. The newest member to the most successful line of golf simulations on the market, Jack Nicklaus' Power Challenge Golf is developed in association with Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus Productions. It features two Nicklaus designed courses and fully-digitized golfers, including Jack Nicklaus himself. Jack Nicklaus' Power Challenge Golf is scheduled to release later this month at a suggested retail price of $59.95.

The gameplay more than lives up to the Nicklaus standard of highest quality. Players can challenge two of Jack's finest course designs -- water intensive English Turn Golf Club (New Orleans), home of the USF&G Classic, and rugged Sherwood Country Club (Thousand Oaks, CA), site of the annual Greg Norman Shark Shootout. Or, players can choose to play at Baltusrol Golf Club in New Jersey, site of this year's U.S. Open. The game features the widest variety of golf shots, Accolade's acclaimed and easiest-to-use "Power Bar" interface, as well as complete statistics for individual players which are updated after every round. Players can select from a variety of options including the ability to play alone or against 3 other human or computer controlled opponents; compete in stroke, skins or tournament play; or practice on the driving range and the putting green.

The program also features a Tournament mode with an option to play against the computer, or up to a maximum of three other human players. Players can also customize computer players so they play just like the real pros on the tour. Using the helpful onscreen tape measure feature, players can read the exact distance between their ball and any other object or location on the hole. Players will find this especially useful when deciding which club to use, based on the distance they need to smack the ball.

The game contains music and a wide variety of digitized sound effects, including the natural sound of the ball splashing in to the water, or sailing onto the green. With the crowd cheering them on throughout the game, players will feel like they have an audience witnessing their every shot. Further, the game adjusts ball trajectories to account for club selection and loft, as well as for terrain contours. More realistic ball landings, rolls and bounces, along with fast, easy gameplay give players the most complete video game golf experience available.

"My sons and I have enjoyed the competition of playing all of the Accolade computer golf products," said Jack Nicklaus. "I'm looking forward to playing this new video game against my sons. It has been designed to be easy and incredibly fun to play ... exactly what golf should be."

Accolade, 5300 Stevens Creek Blvd, San Jose, CA 95129

408-985-1700;  Fax: 408-246-1053


Apple Expands Education Product Line
APPLE EXPANDS EDUCATION PRODUCT LINE AND MARKETING PROGRAMS AT NECC '93

New Technologies, Programs, Leadership Grants Aimed at Providing Educators with Media Rich Learning Tools

ORLANDO, Florida -- June 28, 1993--In keeping with the theme of the 1993 National Educational Computing Conference (NECC), "The Magic of Technology," Apple Computer, Inc.'s K-12 Education division today announced a suite of new products and strategic programs that embrace several exciting new technologies and showcase Apple's continuing commitment to provide compelling technology solutions for education.

Unveiled for the first time as part of a worldwide product introduction, Apple introduced the Apple Macintosh LC 520, an all-in-one computer system designed for the needs of education customers. The new LC 520 features sophisticated media capabilities including an integrated CD-ROM drive, high-quality stereo sound, vibrant color display and Energy Star efficiency. Apple also debuted the Personal LaserWriter 300, its most affordable and energy efficient laser printer offering high quality, low cost printing and sharing capabilities ideally suited to the needs of the education market.

"As the leader in education, Apple is committed to the continued development of advanced technology solutions that allow educators to create authentic learning environments," said Cheryl Vedoe, vice president and general manager of Apple's K-12 Education division. "These two products reflect our on-going commitment to create powerful learning tools that are affordable, easy-to-use and energy efficient."

In a press briefing held today at NECC, Apple also announced an expanded product direction that focuses on providing tools and technologies aimed at the preschool segment of the education market. Apple detailed its plans to offer special hardware and software solutions bundles designed for preschool students, as well as training and productivity solutions for teachers and administration of preschool practices.

"In keeping with the Goals 2000 initiative of ensuring learning readiness, we believe it is critical that the preschool population has equal access to the same technology-rich solutions that have proven successful for K-12 students," noted Vedoe. "The integration of multimedia into early learning curriculum, for example, is an especially compelling solution for preschool students, teachers and administrators."

Apple's Leadership Position Showcased at NECC with Presentations, Receptions and Philanthropic Awards

Apple will also host a variety of other activities during the conference, including:

* The Apple Showcase Room, open Monday, June 28th through Wednesday, June 30th. NECC attendees can view exhibits, see informal presentations and talk with teachers and students engaged in exciting uses of technology in classrooms across the country. Consult Apple PR Information Station (Booth #811) for location, times and details.

* Announcement of the 1993 Apple Education Leadership Grants recipients. Many of this year's recipients from the 29 organizations awarded will be in attendance at the Apple Education Leadership Grants reception on Tuesday, June 29th, at the Marriott Orlando World Center (Anaheim/Atlanta/Boston Rooms).

* Showcase of more than 15 new educational solutions in the Apple booth from leading educational software developers

Apple Computer, Inc. is a leading supplier of advanced personal computer systems to education, business, consumer and government markets in the U.S. and is a recognized innovator in the personal computer industry. The company does business in more than 120 countries.

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

408-996-1010


Apple USA Reduces Prices
Apple USA Reduces Prices of Many Popular Apple Desktop, Portable and Server Computers

Rolls Out Rebate Promotion on Macintosh Performa Family of Computers

CAMPBELL, California -- July 12, 1993--Following through on Apple's strategy to accelerate sales momentum for many of its most popular computer products, Apple Computer, Inc. today announced price reductions on many of its desktop, portable and server computers and also launched a rebate promotion on the Performa line in the United States.

Effective immediately, the U.S. suggested retail prices (SRPs) of the Macintosh Quadra 950 systems have been reduced up to 29%, the Apple Workgroup Server 95 computers have been reduced up to 20%, and the award-winning family of PowerBook notebook computers have been reduced from 7% to 34%.

In addition, Apple kicked-off the "Performa Payback" rebate promotion, offering customers savings on the Macintosh Performa line of personal computers and select printers. The promotion, which offers $100 to $200 rebates on selected products, will be in effect from July 11 through September 20, 1993, a key back-to-school buying season for consumers.

"The price reductions, and the Performa rebates, are part of our overall company strategy to take aggressive actions in order to increase our market share." said Bob Puette, president of Apple USA. "The new prices and rebate promotions make it an excellent time to buy an Apple computer."

"With these actions, we are making some of our most popular products more competitive," Puette said. "Apple's all-in-one PowerBook has the distinction of being among the world's most acclaimed product designs. The Macintosh Quadra 950 is Apple's most flexible and expandable high performance product offering, while the Apple Workgroup Server 95 is the flagship of Apple's server family, designed to provide leading price/performance and significantly lower cost-of-ownership."

Today's announcement follows Apple's June 14, 1993 aggressive U.S. price reductions on selected Apple computers and peripherals, and a rebate promotion offering rebates of $50 to $350 on the purchase of certain Macintosh desktop, portable and peripheral products. The "On-the-spot. On-target solutions" rebate promotion remains in effect through September 30, 1993.

Customers can obtain more information about Apple products and promotional terms and conditions by calling the Apple Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-776-2333. For the location of an Apple reseller or retailer, call 1-800-538-9696.

Headquartered in Cupertino, Calif., Apple Computer, Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) develops, manufactures and markets computer systems for use in business, education, the home, science, engineering, and government. A recognized pioneer and innovator in the personal computer industry, Apple does business in more than 120 countries. Apple's Macintosh computers and LaserWriter printers were ranked highest in user satisfaction among business users in recent studies by J.D. Power and Associates.

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

408-996-1010


Apple to Restructure Over Next 12 Months

CUPERTINO, California -- July 6, 1993 -- Apple Computer, Inc. today confirmed that it intends to implement, over the next 12 months, a broad re-engineering of the company to accelerate revenue, unit and earnings growth. The re-engineering will include a workforce reduction of approximately 2,500 worldwide of Apple's 16,000 full-time, temporary and contract employees, with the majority of layoffs occurring in July, 1993.

Further details of the restructuring--including organizational changes designed to allow the company to compete more effectively--will be communicated by Apple in the near future.

Restructuring costs for the workforce reduction will be accounted for in the company's third fiscal quarter, which ended June 25, 1993.

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

408-996-1010


Word Connection Word Search Game for Macintosh
Word Connection: New Word Search Game for the Macintosh!

PONCA CITY, OKLAHOMA, U.S.A., July 15, 1993 -- Action Software  announces the release of Word Connection, a new word search game for  the Macintosh. Word Connection challenges the minds of children and  adults with a variety of puzzle configurations and a wide range of  difficulty levels.

Word Connection includes hints, puzzle solutions and definitions of  the words in the puzzles. As players search for words, the game offers  hints to help them. At the end of a round of play Word Connection will  show the words missed and the definitions of any unfamiliar words.  Each round of play presents new letter combinations, providing endless  word search entertainment.

Word Connection's puzzle boards are made of hexagon, square, or  triangular shaped cells, each containing a letter. Players form words  from letters in connecting cells. Points are awarded based on the  number and size of the words found.

Players choose from the three cell shapes in three board sizes for a  total of nine puzzle board options.  Players can also change the  difficulty level of the game by choosing the minimum length of words  and the time limit for each round.

Word Connection has color, sound, and is System 7 friendly . The  minimum system required is a Mac Plus, system 6.0.7, 1 megabyte of RAM  and a hard disk (4 megabytes of space required). Word Connection is  recommended for ages ten to adult.

Word Connection will be offered at an introductory price of $39.95 +  $3 S&H ($10 S&H outside of U.S. and Canada) until September 30, 1993.  Regular retail price is $59.95. Word Connection has a thirty day money  back guarantee and is available directly from Action Software at (405)  762-1622 or P.O. Box 1448, Ponca City, OK 74602.


RAW Entertainment Goes To Direct Sales
R.A.W. ENTERTAINMENT GOES DIRECT!

Having spent two years listening to thousands of customers asking "why can't I find RAW titles?",  RAW Entertainment are going direct. We are lowering our current $59.95 title SPOILS OF WAR to $34.95. All current $49.95 titles will be lowered to $29.95. The ACTION STATIONS! SCENARIO/UTILITY DISK will be lowered from $21.95 to $14.95. Both SPOILS OF WAR (PC & AMIGA) and FIRETEAM 2200 (PC ONLY) will continue to be shipped with free add-on disks. We are also distributing two new titles: RAGNAROK, from Norseheim Productions, Inc. and BRAVO ROMEO DELTA from Frankenstein Software Inc.

Products will only be available directly from RAW. Credit card (MC/Visa) orders will be accepted for the first time on our new 800 order line: 1-800-323-7878 which went online on May 1st, 1993. (All other enquiries on 713-286 2 386).

We will be the only publisher to stand by our titles by offering a 30 day refund policy, which will include refunding our shipping and handling charges!

We believe our titles were good value for money before these price reductions, but have lowered our prices in order to pass on our cost savings to the customer. Given these recessionary times (plus energy taxes, sin taxes, increased corporation and income taxes!) we believe this will benefit you, the customer!

RAW Entertainment will now stand or fall on the quality of our products and our customer service, both before and after the sale, rather than continuing to wait for the retail/mailorder sectors to provide the level of service we would like to.

It is believed that RAW Entertainment, Inc. are the only software house to have STARTED by looking for retail distribution and ENDED UP going direct. Most publishers seem to have operated the other way around. No one can say we are conventional! WATCH THIS SPACE...!

Shipping: US: $3.50 for first title, $1.50 for each additional title ordered at the same time. Titles sent by Priority Mail. Canada: $5.00 for first title, $2.00 for each additional title ordered at the same time. Titles send by Airmail.

Check/MO mail orders: Texas residents add appropriate Sales Tax. Credit card telephone orders: Colorado residents add appropriate Sales Tax.

Guarantee: Return your purchase to us within 30 days of incoive date, in a resalable condition and stating the reason for the return, and RAW will refund your money. Including the shipping and handling charge for that title! (Valid only on products purchased directly from RAW after 3/29/93 and with original invoice enclosed).

Action Stations! -- The Naval combat simulator, covering 1922-1945, 180+ ship classes, 30 scenarios, 160+ page manual. XT+/CGA/EGA/640K/floppy or HD. Was $49.95, Now $29.95

Fireteam 2200 -- Hitech combat on distant worlds! Command your Fireteam of up to 16 units. 30+ Combat Units, 25 Weapons Systems, Battle Computer. XT+/EGA/640K/Adlib/Modem play/Floppy or HD. Was $49.95, NOW $29.95

Spoils of War -- Colonize and conquer far away lands! You will have to fight long & hard to achieve victory! Naval & Land units, tactical option, R&D, colonists. AT+/EGA/VGA/1meg/Adlib/HD required. PC & Amiga versions include FREE MAP EDITOR. Was $59.95, Now $34.95

Ragnarok -- Join the final great Viking Quest to aid the Gods in their final battle: RAGNAROK! 200 different races, advanced AI, 100's of items, on-line help, multiple quests. AT+/VGA/640K/Adlib/HD highly recommended. Was $59.95, Now $34.95

Blitzkreig -- Battle of the Bulge wargame. Based on the GDW boardgame of the same name. Hex based, German saboteurs, artillery supply, fuel dumps, weather, handicapping, terrain. AT+/EGA/640K/Floppy or HD. Was $49.95, now $29.95

Worlds at War -- A space-naval warfare game, based on the Solomon Campaign of 1942-43! Naval combat on a Galactic scale! Victory Point graph, production, flight level allocation. 72 page manual. XT+/EGA/640K/Floppy or HD. Was $49.95, now $29.95

Action Stations! Scenario/Utility Disk -- Add-on disk for AS! Includes: 3 utility programs, 28 new ship classes and 13 new scenarios. Was $21.95, Now $14.95

Bravo Romeo Delta -- Global Nuclear Wargame: At 3.58am NORAD picks up the first incoming nuclear warheads. Less than 6 minutes to impact. As Chief Target Planner at the Strategic Air Command it is your job to launch a limited second strike.. Command ICBM's, SLBM's, SSBN's and Bomber Bases. AT+/EGA/640K/HD Required. Was $49.95, Now $29.95

Please not that only the above titles are currently included in this new method of selling our titles. Should this not prove successful, we reserve the right to sell future releases at higher prices and by other distribution methods.

R.A.W. Entertainment Inc

957 NASA Road One, Suite 146, Houston, TX 77058-3098

Tel/Fax: 713-286 2 386


PocketD Plus v3.0 Command-Line File Manager
PocketD Upgrade - June '93

The award-winning PocketD v1.67 ("BEST UTILITY 1992" PsL) has just been substantially upgraded to PocketD Plus v3.0, providing OS/2 and 4DOS support, and greatly improved ease of use. PocketD is first and foremost a very small and exceptionally powerful command-line file manager (D.EXE), with a new and separate menu-driven interface (MENUD.EXE), allowing the user to quickly and easily carry out automated tasks that would be either too difficult or impossible by other means. D.EXE has a staggering 220+ options including filename, string and archive searching (supporting ZIP, ARC, PAK, PKA, ZOO, ARJ, LZH & even SFX), analyse EXE/COM files, file viewing, advanced copy (23 options), powerful execution and display template(s) (50 parameters), sorting, color user menus, support for all screen sizes, advanced wildcards, user-defined parameters (37), barchart summary, directory and archive browse, recursive disk analysis, environment variable analysis & much much more.

The executable D.EXE is only 31k in size (registered version 29.6k), with an optional 107k of indexed on-line help. $35-$68: Needs 31k-266k disk space. PocketD is probably the only file utility you will ever need.

Internet users may download from: SIMTEL pd1:<msdos.sysutl> as POCK30.ZIP

Otherwise, you can contact the author directly at:

PocketWare

PO Box 2369

Hendon, London NW4 1NR ENGLAND


The Shareware Vendor's Companion
Announcing . . . The Shareware Vendor's Companion from Cryer Software

Have you tried almost every kind of database and invoice program there is trying to find a program to run your shareware/public domain business? Well you can stop looking for that perfect program, now available is The Shareware Vendor's Companion. For the shareware vendor there is nothing like it, or anything that even compares to it.

Over 3 1/2 years went into the planning and development of The Shareware Vendor's Companion. It is not just some program that you can make do with, it is a custom program written just for the shareware vendor.

The program is very powerful but still is very easy to use. The program is large, the main EXE file is almost 1 meg is size but yet the program is very fast loading. To allow such a program this size to run within 640k memory the program makes excellent use of memory overlays. When the program is ran it opens 16 fully relationalship database files. With all the data, memo, and key(index) files that will be opened you will need to update your CONFIG.SYS with a minimum of FILES=70 in it. There is more than 150 screens or windows in the program that display or pop-up for entering, searching, retrieving, or updating data. There are more than 200 data fields within the program. There are more than 250 help screens so help is just a key stroke away at anytime.

The program is written mainly for the small to medium size shareware vendor, you know the companies with less than a million dollars a year in sales. I say it is written mainly for the small to medium size vendors because I assume the giant companies have already gone to a lot of expense to have a custom program written just for their needs. But if you are one of these million dollar a year companies you are also welcome to take a look at this program, l almost bet it will still run circles around anything you are using now.

WHAT MAKES THIS PROGRAM SPECIAL

The program is well designed for speed and is extremely fast even on the XT computer. Of course if you have a 286 it will be much faster, and if you have 386 or 486 computer the program will fly.

The program is very user-friendly. All options are menu driven and written in plain English. There are no complex commands to learn or remember.

The program is so simple to use that after playing with it for less than 1 hour you should have it mastered.

The search commands within the program are unbelievably fast no matter how large your mailing list is or how many invoices are entered.

When entering an invoice the program pulls the name and address from the customer file (mailing list file) into the invoice.

If needed you can easily add or correct a customer file from within the invoice part of the program.

After entering a new invoice the customer file is update with total number of times the customer has ordered and the total dollar amount of the orders.

The program tracks the date every time someone requests a catalog from you. You may want to know if someone has requested several catalogs from you in the past but has never placed a order. If you charge a fee for a catalog the program can keep track of that too.

The program also tracks each time someone requests a demo disk from you. It will keep track of any fee charged for the disk or for shipping and handling. So if you are one of those vendors who advertises a demo disk and catalog for a fee the program can easily handle this type of entry.

The program counts the shareware/public domain disks for you that you enter into an invoice. You won't have to use your finger anymore to point to the screen and count how many disks the customer just ordered from you.

The program can keep track of the date a shareware program was first added to your library and the date is was last updated. This would be useful if you included in your catalogs which disks are new and which ones have been updated since the last catalog printing.

The program keeps track of the last invoice printed so you can easily print out only the new invoices that have been entered along with the shipping labels and disk labels.

The program keeps track of the last date you printed out labels for new catalog requests so you can easily print out only the new ones.

The program can automatically print disk labels for 5.25 and/or 3.50 disks using the same numbers that were entered into the invoices. So if you want disks labels printed there is no retyping disk numbers again since they are already entered into the invoice, it can use these numbers for the look-up when printing the labels.

The program automatically checks for duplicate records when entering new customer and/or author records. It will not allow you to enter duplicate records.

The program automatically supplies unique customer id numbers and invoice numbers originally set by you.

The program has a letter writer for writing, storing, and printing letters. It easily pulls the name and address from either the customer file or from the author file(software publisher file) into the letter. You can also easily print envelopes and/or address labels for the letter.

It does not matter if you carry software for one computer or carry software for every computer there is, the program is capable of handling this.

There is no limit to the number of shareware or public domain disks that can be entered into your master file for disks.

There is no limit to the number of categories you can create for your master disk file.

There is no limit to the number of miscellaneous items that can be entered into your master file for items.

There is no limit to the number of disks or items that can be entered into an invoice, so if a customer would order every disk or every item you had it would be no problem to create a invoice for them.

There is no limit to the number of records that can be entered into the mailing list files or into the invoice file. So if you need to add records in the millions or beyond it can be done. Note: It may require that Cryer Software to lengthen the Id# and Inv# fields to made room for longer digits?

The program has a screen saver built in, it will blank you screen if the program is not in use for 10 minutes. Pressing any key will then restore your screen.

The program has an author file (software publisher file) that keeps track of all the shareware authors. You can keep track of the authors that sends you programs and the ones that don't. You can keep track of the authors that you have added their programs in your library and you can also keep track of the ones where you didn't include their programs. You can also keep track of the last time the author sent you updates. And by simply pressing a button will display all the programs you have in your library form an author.

The invoice part of the program is mainly designed for entering shareware or public domain disks into an invoice, but it is also very capable of handling anything you might sell. So if you also sell books, blank disks, software packages, hardware, etc this is no problem. When entering shareware disks sold into a invoice all you type is the disk number and the program will look up all other information. When entering miscellaneous items into the invoice you type the item number and quantity sold and the program will look up the price and description. You can easily enter 5.25 shareware disks, 3.50 shareware disks, and miscellaneous items sold into the same invoice.

The program can keep track of advertisement codes for each catalog request or for each order. You can know which of your ads are worth repeating or if a mailing has paid off.

With most reports you will have a choice to either send it to the screen or to the printer.

When reports are sent to the screen you can use the up and down arrows to scroll through the report on the screen. You can also use the page up and down keys to move a page at a time. This is very handy, reports viewed on the screen that you can even scroll backwards.

New reports can be added to the program without having a new program upgrade.

There will also be 4 data utilities included with the registered version for converting, sorting, and manipulating data. The are: Converter, Filer, Scanner, and Sorter. With the Converter you can easily import and export data to and from other programs.

Everything you could think of should be covered in this program, and it was designed so you can find any type of information fast. So if someone calls you up on your 800 number and asks questions like: I am looking for a program that I can't find in your catalog do you have it? What is latest version of that program you have? Who is the author of that program? What other programs do you have by that same author? I am looking for a word processor do you have one? What other word processors do you have? I want to check the status of my order? I would like that order shipped to a different address but I don't want a permanent address change in your mailing list, can you do that? I called last week to request a new catalog, has it been mailed yet? Did you also send a catalog to my friend? Did you get my new change of address? All this information plus lots more can be found or entered at lighting speed.

The list of features for this program goes on and on. Almost anything you could think of has already been thought of and are included in this program. If all of these features listed now sound good, just wait until you discover the power of the program for yourself and what is planned for the near future.

If at anytime you may need technical support you will receive it directly from me, Rusty Cryer, the author of The Shareware Vendor's Companion.

RESTRICTION

Please note that The Shareware Vendor's Companion can only be distributed by Cryer Software. This means no one can add this program to their shareware / public domain catalog or BBS. It is not a shareware program, it is commercial software.

REQUIREMENTS

The program will run on any IBM/Compatible with 640k memory and a hard drive.

SPECIAL PRICE FOR THE PROGRAM

After a complete manual is written (manual is not needed), an improved installation program is created, and the fancy packaging of the program is completed, it is planed for the program to sell between $400 to $800. If you are one who does not care about these finishing touches now, you can buy the program at a special price of only $149.00, for a limited time only.

IMPROVEMENTS PLANED FOR NEAR FUTURE

Here are some improvements that should be available for the program in very near future upgrades: a complete mini word processor with spell checking, much better editing commands of memo fields including spell checking and the ability to import and export DOS text files, much better printer support, many more print options and reports to support almost any type of label or form, a very accurate and up to date zip code database, dial phone numbers with a simple key stroke, automatically check credit card numbers, a complete backup/restore program with data compression, a DOS utility/shell program, and mouse support. There may also be later versions for Windows and for networks.

EVALUATION COPY FOR A SMALL FEE

We do have an evaluation copy of the program for only $3.00 if you would like to try the program before you buy it. It is the full working program but will not accept a large number of customer records to be entered into it. The $3.00 charge is to help cover the cost of materials and postage. It will be distributed on one 3 1/2 high density disk. You will also receive various labels to experiment with while you are trying out the program. You will receive some shipping labels, labels for 5 1/4 disks, labels for 3 1/2 disks, and mailing labels.

HOW TO ORDER

The evaluation copy of The Shareware Vendor's Companion is only $3.00.

The registered version of The Shareware Vendor's Companion is only $149.00.

Shipping and handling is included in the above prices.

Why Wait? Order your evaluation copy of the program today!

Send a check or money order to: Cryer Software P.O. Box 893 Clinton, OK 73601; 405-323-5890

For now we prefer to distribute the program on 3 1/2 high density disks. If you can not use 3 1/2 DS/HD disks we can put the program on 5 1/4 high-density disks if required.


ProComp BusMastering SCSI Controller
For $599 this BusMastering SCSI controller will support a CD-ROM on your network under NetWare 3.11 and 4.0, NOW!!

The PRO-MASTER (BusMastering 32 BIT EISA) supports any SCSI 1, SCSI 2 or FAST SCSI-2 hard drive, fixed or removable. The PRO-MASTER (synchronous 10 MByte/sec: asynchronous 5 MByte/sec.) is designed and manufactured to use the fastest bus transfer mode of the EISA bus (33 MB/sec. burst mode). An excellent solution for use with single or multiple CD-ROM drives (High-Sierra and ISO 9660 standard format) in a stand alone system or a network environment. Tape backup interface is also available under DOS, Windows NT, NetWare, UNIVEL, OS/2 and UNIX Operating Systems. Shipped with each controller is the Multi-Driver System (MDS) which is the key to all SCSI storage applications in that MDS. using ASPI interface, can manage other manufacturer's controllers and device drivers. ASPI INTERFACE (ADVANCED SCSI PROGRAMMING INTERFACE) for NetWare and DOS.

PRO-MASTER EISA BusMaster SCSI Host Adapter

LIST PRICE: $599

PROCOMP USA, 6777 Engle Rd, Cleveland,Ohio 44130

Voice (216) 234-6387,   Facsimile: (216) 234-2233

BBS:  (216) 234-6581


Ventana's Looking Good in Print, 3rd Edition
LOOKING LIKE A WINNER!

NEW THIRD EDITION FOR VENTANA'S CLASSIC LOOKING GOOD IN PRINT

CHAPEL HILL, NC--The explosion of Windows, the drop in Mac prices, and the inclusion of everything but the kitchen sink in standard commercial word processors puts powerful graphic tools in the hands of virtually anyone with a computer. Using these tools judiciously and effectively, however, requires skill, experience, talent--or a copy of Ventana Press's desktop publishing classic, Looking Good in Print.

Since its introduction in 1988, Roger C. Parker's Looking Good in Print, just released in a dazzling Third Edition, has guided computer users through the maze of boxes, grids, screens, fonts, clip art and assorted other graphic diversions. Stressing the concepts and components of good design, the book offers guidelines, advice and a wealth of ideas for creating professional materials that really "pop" without succumbing to the temptations of overkill. Still the most widely used guidebook for desktop publishers and the acknowledged "granddaddy" of the genre, Looking Good's Third Edition includes new information on:

* adding impact and accent with color in an all-new chapter featuring 24 pages of 4-color illustrations.

* choosing, placing, cropping and retouching photos to empower the message and enhance the design.

* working smoothly with service bureaus to take advantage of professional technology and avoid time-wasting glitches.

* mining vast sources of ready-made art to liven up a layout at minimal expense.

Macintosh or PC; Windows, DOS or UNIX; no matter what software or hardware sits on the desk, Looking Good in Print, Third Edition, offers a richly illustrated look at how to lift newsletters, flyers, stationery, business cards and ads above the mundane.

Roger C. Parker is the author of Newsletters From the Desktop, Desktop Publishing With WordPerfect and The Makeover Book, all published by Ventana Press. He has conducted numerous seminars and workshops on desktop publishing design and is president of The Write Word, Inc., an advertising and marketing firm based in Dover, NH.

Looking Good in Print, Third Edition, is softcover, 7 3/8" x 9 1/4", 412 pages with 276 illustrations. Suggested retail price: $24.95. ISBN: 1-56604-047-7.

Ventana Press publishes books and other materials that help computer users become more productive, including Voodoo DOS; Voodoo Windows; The Windows Shareware 500; DOS, WordPerfect & Lotus Office Companion; Desktop Publishing With WordPerfect and Desktop Publishing With Word for Windows. 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


Channel R.E.A.D. LaserDisc System Bundle
HOUGHTON MIFFLIN COMPANY and PIONEER ANNOUNCE AVAILABILITY OF CHANNEL R.E.A.D. LASERDISC SYSTEM BUNDLE

July 21, 1993--Boston, MA--Houghton Mifflin and Pioneer New Media Technologies, Inc. jointly announce the availability of the first reading videodisc bundle. The bundle will include a single title from the Channel R.E.A.D. videodisc series, The Case of the Missing Mystery Writer, a Pioneer CLD-V2400 LaserDisc player with remote control, a Pioneer UC-V109BC barcode reader and membership in the Pioneers in Learning Club.

Last month at the National Educational Computing Conference (NECC), Houghton Mifflin announced the release of the Channel R.E.A.D. Videodisc Series. The videodisc program offers 15 entertaining and dramatic adventures which are designed to help third through eighth grade students improve reading comprehension and written and oral communication skills.

The special combination of instructional materials and technology is designed to provide a high degree of value to teachers of elementary and middle school reading. The bundled items, if purchased separately, would cost educators nearly $1400. The bundle can be purchased either through Houghton Mifflin sales representatives or Pioneer resellers. The suggested retail price is $995. A special educators price, available only through Houghton Mifflin is $895. The offer expires on June 30,1994.

George Logue, Houghton Mifflin Company, Vice President and National Sales Manager believes that "educators are looking for ways to implement new technologies at a reasonable price, and through this bundle, we feel we are helping them take a first step in realizing this goal."

"This bundle is ground-breaking in its use of technology to help develop reading skills," states William Fisher, Manager of Education Marketing for Pioneer. "Houghton Mifflin is the leading publisher in material to teach reading, and Pioneer is the leader in supplying laser disc players to education. This concert of strengths continues to show our companies' commitment to quality education products."

Houghton Mifflin is a major publisher of print materials and technology for the elementary school, high school, and college markets and an extensive line of reference materials including dictionaries and software for the office automation and microcomputer markets. The Company also publishes a broad range of fiction and non-fiction for adults and young readers.

Pioneer New Media Technologies, Inc., is the leading supplier of LaserDisc players to education and developer of LaserDisc and CD-ROM systems. Based in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, Pioneer develops, manufactures, distributes and supports LaserDisc and CD-ROM products and accessories for dealers and VARs (Value-Added Resellers) in education, corporate training and point-of-information markets.

Houghton Mifflin Company

222 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116-3764

617-351-5000


CIC HandWriter Recognition Sys w/NEC VersaPad
CIC HANDWRITER RECOGNITION SYSTEM SOFTWARE BUNDLED WITH NEW NEC VERSAPAD

REDWOOD SHORES, California, July 19, 1993 - (NASDAQ:CICI) Communication Intelligence Corporation (CIC) today announces that its PenDOS pen operating environment software is offered on the VersaPad -- NEC's new, versatile, high-performance, lightweight, pen-tablet. The VersaPad bundles CIC's Handwriter Recognition System software with both CIC's PenDOS and Microsoft Windows for Pen Computing.

Originally introduced as the UltraLite Autograph, NEC's VersaPad, with pricing starting at $2,999, has been enhanced with increased hard disk storage, user-expandable RAM, and CIC's award winning Handwriter Recognition System software. Available for US and UK English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese languages, the Handwriter software recognizes handwritten input on pen-based computers. Offering a more natural input style especially well suited for portable computing, Handwriter allows users to readily interact with the VersaPad pen-tablet.

"Reliable handwriting recognition as well as high performance and competitively priced hardware are critical to the growth of the pen computing market," said Bob Levin, director of portable marketing at NEC Technologies. "NEC is responding to market demand by offering the VersaPad --a lightweight, superior price/performing tablet that provides corporate users with sophisticated functionality in an ultra-portable form factor. Early feedback from our customers is very positive regarding CIC's Handwriter software on both the Pen Windows and PenDOS platforms."

CIC's PenDOS pen operating environment is specifically designed to transform major existing mouse-aware DOS applications into pen-aware applications, without modification, as well as to facilitate the development of new pencentric applications. PenDOS which provides an easy-to-use pen user interface, including electronic ink, a pen-based cursor, standard and user-definable pen stroke commands, and a pop-up writing window, is implemented on the NEC VersaPad which supports a DOS operating environment.

PenDOS is localized for the languages of the major world markets including U.S., Western Europe, and Japan. Combined with Handwriter Recognition System software from Communication Intelligence Corporation (CIC), PenDOS allows NEC Technologies to offer its customers a pen computing solution, worldwide.

Communication Intelligence Corporation (CIC) develops, markets, and licenses natural input computer technology--products that use pen and image for input. Founded in 1981, CIC today is a leading supplier of pen computing products throughout the world, particularly its multilingual Handwriter Recognition System and Handwriter Dynamic Signature Verification software, and PenDOS and PenMac pen operating environments. CIC's products allow existing and new pen applications to operate on all major hardware and operating system platforms, including: Microsoft Windows for Pen Computing, GO's PenPoint, and CIC's own PenDOS and PenMac. CIC's PenDOS and Handwriter Recognition System for PenDOS are distributed and exclusively sublicensed by IBM to pen computer manufacturers worldwide. CIC's MacHandwriter, a desktop pen extension to the Macintosh computer, is distributed by Apple Japan, Inc. CIC is headquartered in Redwood Shores, California, and has a subsidiary in Tokyo, Japan. The company is publicly traded and is listed on the NASDAQ National Market as CICI.

Communication Intelligence Corp

275 Shoreline Dr, Redwood Shores, CA 94065

415-802-7888,  fax 415-802-7777


SPA Demonstrates Effectiveness of Educ Tech
SPA Demonstrates Effectiveness of Education Technology

Supports Technology for Education Act

July 21, 1993 (Washington, DC)--For many American children, traditional schooling is a difficult or tedious experience. "While their world outside the school is awash in electronic media, their classrooms have not progressed with society and remain much as they were in the 1950's. Today in a hearing before the Senate Labor and Human Resources Committee, three members of the Software Publishers Association (SPA) testified in support of The Technology for Education Act of 1993. Known as S. 1040, the bill will make it possible for all schools to integrate technology into their curriculums.

The SPA members, John Kernan of Jostens Learning Corporation, Jerry Caldwell of EduQuest, an IBM company, and Dr. Jeffrey Orloff of Apple Computer, demonstrated some of the latest curriculum software products, designed to grab students' attention and make learning fun by using the same technologies that have turned kids on to Nintendo and MTV.

Testifying on behalf of the SPA, Jostens Learning Corporation Chairman John Kernan pointed to a report, The effectiveness of Technology in Schools 1990-1992, and stated that, "It has been proven that technology can favorably affect student achievement, student self-concept and attitudes, and teacher-student interaction. Yet, not every school can afford the technology they need to educate their students."

The Technology for Education Act solves this problem by providing mechanisms such as guaranteed financing with low-interest loans for state and local education agencies to acquire education technologies.

Yet merely putting computers in classrooms does not mean that they will be used effectively. The legislation introduced by Senator Bingaman (D-NM) and cosponsored by Senators Kennedy (D-MA), Cochran (R-MS), and Harkin (D-IA) provides for teacher training and support, and encourages parent involvement and research and assessment. Supplying teachers with computer technology, but not with appropriate staff training, is like giving them a textbook with blank pages.

Although the bill is an important first step toward providing all American students the technology-based skills they need for future employment, SPA General Counsel Ilene Rosenthal cautioned that the bill appears to contain a presumption in favor of setting a single standard for educational hardware and software technology. "New technologies are developing so rapidly that any attempt to establish a single uniform standard would render the standard obsolete and useless, as well as waste millions of dollars already invested by schools in education technologies."

To demonstrate the variety and effectiveness of the technologies that the bill will make available to America's schools, Kernan and representatives from Apple Computer and EduQuest put on a dazzling display of education technology.

W. H. Gerald (Jerry) Caldwell, Jr., Director of Marketing Programs and Support at EduQuest, an IBM Company, demonstrated his company's Illuminated Books and Manuscripts and Columbus: Encounter, Discovery and Beyond, with which the teacher can explore, design, and create provocative presentations. With such multimedia tools, the teacher becomes less of a lecturer-and more of a mentor and facilitator for students.

Dr. Jeffrey Orloff, Manager of National Education Markets for Apple Computer, Inc., demonstrated three products. At Ease, a simplified alternative interface to the Macintosh computer, allows teachers to determine which programs and documents they can use. He also capitalized on the color and sound capabilities of the Macintosh to demonstrate Edmark Corporation's Millie's Math House, which teaches children shapes, numbers, problem-solving, and patterns as they explore a house full of friendly talking characters and fun sounds. Orloff also demonstrated the CD-ROM-based Count Down by the Voyager Company.

John Keman demonstrated Compton's Multimedia Encyclopedia, the first interactive encyclopedia available on CD-ROM. Compton's includes 13,000 visual images, 40 animations and videos, and over 60 minutes of high quality audio. It also provides instant access to more than 32,000 authoritative entries, as well as Webster's intermediate dictionary. It is now used by students in almost 2,500 schools nationwide.

"Education is the conerstone of our nation's global competitiveness, and today, technology is its driving force," Kernan concluded. "With a responsible, carefully crafted Technology for Education Act, millions of school children will have new opportunities to learn and succeed through the systematic integration of technology into all schools in the United States."

Established in 1984, the Software Publishers Association is the principal trade association of the personal computer software industry. Its 1,000 members represent the leading publishers in the business, consumer, and education software markets. The SPA has offices in Washington, DC, and Paris, France.

Software publishers Association

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

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


SPA Releases Education Software Mgmt Guide
Software Publishers Association Releases Education Software Management Guide

Assists K-12 Educators with Legal Software Use

July 19, 1993 (Washington, DC)- In its continuing efforts in the fight against software piracy, the Software Publishers Association (SPA) announced today the release of Education Software Management: A K-12 Guide to Legal Software Use. This new guide is a complete software management kit that contains all of the materials educators need to establish their school/district software asset management program.

The SPA Education Software Management Guide provides step-by-step software compliance procedures developed specifically for use in elementary and secondary schools, districts and media centers. The easy-to-follow book gives information about the copyright law with eight steps to becoming software "legal," and provides information on how to perform an internal controls analysis as well as a software audit. It also includes a glossary of terms, District Policy Statement, the Software Code of Ethics, audit forms, software log, and sample lesson plans, plus a copy of the award-winning SPA anti-piracy video, "Don't Copy That Floppy."

"Response was tremendous during the Beta test period for the Guide," said SPA Executive Director Ken Wasch. "Educators charged with responsibility for technology have long since recognized the difficulty of managing their software resources and staying within the law. We are now providing them with a useful tool to help monitor their internal software practices, so that educational institutions may become software legal."

The Guide was Beta tested by educators who provided the SPA with valuable insight into how software can best be managed in schools, districts, and regional media centers. Don Knezek of the Education Service Center, Region 20, in San Antonio, Texas, commented, "This represents a practical guide to support and lead educators in their efforts to promote responsible and loyal use of computer software."

"This is an excellent tool for administrators, teachers, and students. The examples of non-compliance were very helpful," stated Richard P. Beruk, Superintendent, Liberty Central School District in New York. "We thank the SPA for taking the initiative to provide a comprehensive reference guide in this area. We are not aware of any similar document available to public or private schools."

The release of Education Software Management: A K-12 Guide to Legal Software Use is part of the ongoing anti-piracy effort of the SPA. Since 1988, the Software Publishers Association has initiated hundreds of lawsuits and audits on behalf of its members and obtained numerous search and seizure orders against businesses, computer dealers, bulletin board services, and educational institutions that have violated its members' copyrights.

Education Software Management: A K-12 Guide to Legal Software Use is available for $35 (which covers production and handling costs) to all educational institutions. To buy a copy, organizations should send payment to:

Education Software Management:

A K-12 Guide to Legal Software Use

PO Box 79237

Baltimore, MD 21279-0237

To receive an informational brochure and order form, organizations should call or write to:

Education Software Management:

A K-12 Guide to Legal Software Use

1730 M St., N.W. Suite 700

Washington, D.C. 20036

(202) 452-1600. ext. 341

(202) 223-8756 (fax)

Established in 1984, the Software Publishers Association is the principal trade association of the personal computer software industry. Its 1,000 members represent the leading publishers in the business, consumer, and education software markets. The SPA has offices in Washington, DC, and Paris, France.

Software publishers Association

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

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


Q387 V3.5 Math Accelerator/Emulator
QuickWare has announced the release of Q387 Version 3.5 Math Accelerator and Emulator. Q387 is a cost effective alternative to an 80x87 math coprocessor chip. The program allows all owners of 468SX, 486SLC, 386DX, and 386SX based PC's to run programs, such as all releases of AutoCAD, which normally require a math coprocessor to run. Q387 is very fast, speeding up coprocessor optional graphics and CAD programs by as much as 400% on machines which have no math coprocessor. For example, Q387 speeds up GenericCAD by 250%, AutoSketch for Windows by 50%, and SURFER by 400%! Q387 is compatible with all DOS, all DOS Extender, and all Windows applications.

For laptop and notebook owners, Q387 offers the additional advantage of extending battery life by up to 25%, since the program draws power only when math operations are performed, as opposed to coprocessor chips, which drain battery power continuously whenever the computer is on.

Q387 is distributed as an upgradable demo, allowing anyone to fully evaluate the capabilities of Q387 for themselves before registering. The demo may be obtained free of charge by modem from CompuServe at IBMHW, America OnLine, the QuickWare BBS at (512) 292-1212 (settings are N81), or many other local BBS's. Q387 is also available on disk at no charge from the QuickWare Demo Line at (512) 280-6707. Q387 registration is only $25 and may be accomplished toll free by phone with a Visa or Mastercard.

QuickWare (Bill Alexander)

P.O. Box 684652, Austin, TX 78658

512-280-1452

Email: AOL - Quickware, CIS: 70750,2147


July 1993 Directory of US Daily Newspapers
JULY 1993 UPDATE

DIRECTORY OF U.S. DAILY NEWSPAPERS July 1993

International Features has released the 1993 Shareware Update of the Bates Directory of U.S. Daily Newspapers.

This directory is dedicated to newspaper readers, advertisers, writers, small businesses or persons interested in doing their own public relations.

It lists the nearly 1,600 daily newspapers currently publishing in the United States, and prints mailing labels.

Data includes addresses, phone numbers, fax numbers, and reports daily and Sunday circulation figures.

The program also generates 1- or 2-across mailing

System requirements are an IBM or compatible PC. No hard disk is required.

International Features

Mailing Adr - PO Box 1349, Lake Worth, FL 33460

Street Adr  - 8 South "J: St, Suite 3, Lake Worth, FL 33460

407-582-8320


All New Version of FAMILY REUNION Shipping
Now Shipping: All New Version of World's Greatest Genealogy Software!!

Version 4.0 of "FAMILY REUNION, A Genealogy System", by FAMware, produces several variations of PEDIGREE CHARTS, FAMILY GROUP/FACTS SHEETS, DESCENDANT CHARTS, ADDRESS LABELS, BIRTHDAY LISTS, and "FANCY SCREENS" ("Roots and Fruits", "Extended Family", "Home Sweet Home", "Our Home is Our Castle"). Also includes user defined fields and data entry sequences, user defined database listings (both vertical and horizontal format), alphabetical or numerical access, database searches, many user customization options, and much more. FAMILY REUNION version 1.0, released in 1982, was the first genealogy program ever written for the IBM PC compatible marketplace. Over the years it has been improved substantially, and has a large following. The FAMILY REUNION 4.0 package includes seven program modules: MAIN/SETUP, DATA ENTRY, REPORTING, SPECIAL FEATURES, UTILITIES, GEDCOM, and TREE EASY. Required: IBM PC or Compatible, DOS 3.0 (or above), 640K conventional memory (540K available), Color/Graphics Display Monitor, Hard Disk (with at least 4MB of available disk space for installation), and any Printer. Suggested Retail Price: $39.95. Distributed to retail stores through Baker & Taylor Software, ph. (800) 775-4100 or (805) 522-9800 (ask for product code PCFAM-13R3). End users will find FAMILY REUNION at most software stores throughout the United States and Canada or they can order directly from FAMware.

FAMware, 1580 East Dawn Drive, S.L.C., Utah, 84121

FAX/Tel. (801) 943-6908.


TREE EASY v1.0 Genealogy Swr for Beginners
Now Shipping: At last, a Genealogy Software Package for Beginners!!

Version 1.0 of "TREE EASY, A Startup Genealogy System", by FAMware, produces PEDIGREE CHARTs (including a PHOTO PEDIGREE CHART), an INDIVIDUAL DATA SHEET, a sorted SURNAME INDEX, and various WORKSHEETs. TREE EASY has unique data entry screens (including DATA ENTRY LINK, UPDATE, and TREE screens) that allow you to easily visualize relationships as you enter them. Thoroughly tested on both children and adults, TREE EASY is proving to be the most straightforward, intuitive, and easy to use genealogy software on the market today! A brief data entry tutorial gets you up to speed entering your own family information in just minutes. Capture names, dates, places and relationships. Track birth, marriage(s), death, burial and user defined information on ancestors as well as all of your relatives (brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, cousins, children, grand children, etc.). TREE EASY is fully compatible with FAMware's more advanced genealogy software, FAMILY REUNION. If you should later decide to move up to a more sophisticated program, nothing you have entered will be lost or ever need rekeying. Get started with TREE EASY! You'll catch on quickly and soon be telling your family and friends how much fun you're having building your own family tree. Required: IBM PC or Compatible, DOS 3.0 (or above), 640K conventional memory (540K available), Color/Graphics Display Monitor, Hard Disk or 2 Diskette Drives, any Printer. Suggested Retail Price: $14.95. Distributed to retail stores through Baker & Taylor Software, ph. (800) 775-4100 or (805) 522-9800 (ask for product code PCFAM-03R3). End users will find TREE EASY at most software stores throughout the United States and Canada or they can order directly from FAMware.

FAMware, 1580 East Dawn Drive, S.L.C., Utah, 84121

FAX/Tel. (801) 943-6908.


Relay Control Card D-Sub Filtering Options
D-Sub, Filtering Options for Relay Control Cards Reduce EMI-RFI

July 15, 1993 -- BEVERLY, Mass. -- The option of filtered or unfiltered D-sub connectors is now available for a series of PC/XT/AT or EISA bus-compatible relay control cards from DDI Inc.

Filtered D-Sub connectors are an acknowledged method for effectively filtering out EMI-RFI, necessary for compliance with FCC Class A or Class B regulations. In addition to providing shielding against source interference, the D-Sub option can also prevent the intrusion of outside EMI-RFI into the system. Filtering is available from DDI according to customer needs and specifications.

"The filtered D-Sub connector option," emphasizes Erik Valeur, DDI president, "can provide shielding against interference coming into or leaving the system. We can provide filtering to any level required; like all our products, it is an option driven by our customers requirements."

The DDI D-Sub option is available for the 8600 Series Relay Output Control Cards, which offer a wide variety of relay types, including reed, mercury, solid state or electromechanical normally open or normally closed, and in the near future, alternative action. A variety of electrical configurations are also available for control of virtually any type of electrical signal.

Today plug-in board-level products from DDI, Inc. switch AC or DC loads directly from IBM PC/EISA/STD bus systems to provide simple, low-cost detection and response solutions. Current applications include process control, alarms and security monitoring, communications, component testing, laboratory switching and many other applications.

Providing simple, low-cost detection and response solutions that switch internal loads directly from embedded or stand-alone PC or STD bus systems is the goal of five year old DDI, Inc. Today, plug-in board-level products from DDI are used in process control, telecom, alarms and security monitoring, communications, component testing, laboratory switching, and many other applications.

For more information write or telephone DDI, Inc., 5 Dodge Street, Suite 310, Beverly, MA 01915; telephone (508) 927-7976; FAX (508) 921-6388.


RAacal-Datacom Expands VAR Program
RACAL-DATACOM EXPANDS VALUE ADDED RESELLER PROGRAM

July 19, 1993 -- SUNRISE, FL -- Racal-Datacom has announced a new U.S. sales and marketing program to expand activities with its current VAR partners, and attract new value added resellers (VARs).

Under the direction of Jim Kennedy, vice president of Distribution and Strategic Sales, the new Racal-Datacom VAR Partners program is aimed at increasing the sale and range of Racal products and services through its VAR channel. The program includes lead referral, sales and technical support, and nationwide training and certification for VARs on the sale and support of Racal's full line of local area and wide area networking products and service contracts.

"A multiple sales channel strategy is critical to our success," Kennedy stated. Industry sources estimate that $20 billion, or 66 percent of the data communications market is now sold through indirect channels such as VARs. "The company is committed to increasing customer satisfaction by complementing our direct sales force with value added resellers, " Kennedy added. "We have formed a channel marketing group, headed by Lynn Bishop, who has in excess of 20 years experience in channel marketing with both Texas Instruments and Hall-Mark Electronics. His group is dedicated to the development of our indirect channels."

Racal Products and Support Services Now Available to VARs

The new program greatly expands the offerings now available to VARs to include the full range of Racal's LAN/WAN systems and network services. Products include INX intelligent wiring hubs, Excalibur digital access products, Omnimux time division multiplexers and RNX bridges and routers, among several other offerings. Additionally, VARs are now able to sell Racal installation and maintenance contracts to fully support their customers.

"The objective of the program is to equip our VARs to better serve the total networking needs of the customer," Kennedy stated. To that end, the company is providing VARs with access to dedicated systems engineering, Racal's worldwide service organization and other technical and network support services.

The VAR Partner program kicked off with a 10-city nationwide approved level training series. During each of the four-day training session, participating VARs and their technical staffs are provided with the information and training they need to begin selling and supporting Racal products and services. Additional technical training will be required for a VAR to be certified. Once certified, the VAR will be eligible for account co-marketing relationships with Racal's direct sales force, and other special marketing programs.

The VAR Partner program is designed to develop strong partnerships with 35-40 of the top VARs in the data communications industry. Racal has already established relationships with 23 select resellers. Additional VARs will be added to support targeted market areas.

Value added resellers interested in the VAR Partners program can call 1-800-RACAL-55 for additional information.

Racal-Datacom offers solutions for the delivery and management of information between remote offices and headquarters locations. The company's broad line of local area and wide area networking products are all managed by a single, standards-based network management system and all backed by a full range of services including network design and integration, worldwide maintenance and support. Racal-Datacom reported worldwide revenues of $560 million for the fiscal year ending March 31,1993. Parent company Racal Electronics Plc reported revenues of $1.43 billion for the year.

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


Running Visual Basic for Windows, 2nd Ed.
Running Visual Basic for Windows, Second Edition

A Hands-On Introduction to Programming for Windows

RUNNING VISUAL BASIC FOR WINDOWS, 2ND EDITION--the hands-on guide to learning and using the popular Visual Basic programming system for Windows is now available from Microsoft Press.

The Visual Basic programming system allows programmers to build powerful applications with unprecedented speed and ease. And RUNNING VISUAL BASIC FOR WINDOWS, 2ND EDITION, by expert Ross Nelson offers programming power to those with little or no programming experience. This easy-to-understand guide to Visual Basic version 3 helps readers develop key programming techniques so that they can construct interesting and rewarding projects right away. It's packed with clear instructions and superb examples for programmers new to Visual Basic and for those upgrading from previous versions. In addition, Nelson highlights significant Visual Basic features and includes program examples of useful business tools and Windows-based utilities. Readers will:

* Learn the fundamentals of the Visual Basic programming

  environment

* Write their first applications for the Windows operating

  system

* Design an effective graphical user interface

* Develop an application program that accesses a database

* Incorporate OLE in an application written in Visual Basic

* Write event-driven code

* Work with graphics

* Learn how to find and correct bugs and errors

A comprehensive index helps readers quickly locate information on any topic in the book. A companion disk containing more than 70 forms, make files, and code modules is available directly from Microsoft Press. Ordering information can be found at the back of the book.

Ross Nelson is the author of Microsoft's 80386/80486 Programming Guide from Microsoft Press, and is a contributor to the Microsoft Press Computer Dictionary. He has also written articles for BYTE and Dr. Dobb's Journal. He is an active member of Computer Professionals for Social Responsibility (CPSR).

RUNNING VISUAL BASIC FOR WINDOWS is part of the Microsoft-authorized line of software guides in the Running series from Microsoft Press. Other titles include the classic Running MS-DOS, by Van Wolvenon, the bestselling Running Microsoft Excel from The Cobb Group, Running Windows 3.1 by Craig Stinson, Running Word for Windows and Running Microsoft Mail by Russell Borland, Running Microsoft Access by John Viescas, Running MS-DOS QBasic by Michael Halvorson and David Rygmyr, and Running Microsoft FoxPro for Windows by Sal Ricciardi.

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

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ "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.

Running Visual Basic for Windows, 2nd ed. by Ross Nelson

352 pages, $22.95

ISBN: 1-55615-564-6

Pub. Date: August 3, 1993

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

206-882-8080


Microsoft @in32 Programmer's References
Microsoft Press Distributes Microsoft Win32 Technical Information

Microsoft Win32 Programmer's References

The MICROSOFT WIN32 PROGRAMMER'S REFERENCE library--the core documentation included with the Microsoft Win32 Software Development Kit (SDK) is now available from Microsoft Press in individual volumes in bookstores and software stores everywhere.

These five volumes contain accurate and up-to-date technical information about the Microsoft Win32 Application Programming Interface (API). Readers get detailed descriptions, loads of source code examples, and alphabetic listings of functions, data types, macros, messages, and structures. It's the fast, inexpensive way to check out the world of 32-bit programming. Each book carries a suggested retail price of US$20.00

Volume 1 (ISBN 1-55615-515-8) and Volume 2 (ISBN 1-55615-516-6) are operating system overviews that cover window management, the Graphics Device Interface (GDI), multimedia extensions, and application notes. Nearly 2000 pages describe the purpose of the Win32 API and show how the Win32 functions work together to carry out specific tasks.

Volume 3, at 768 pages (ISBN 1-55615-517-4), and Volume 4, which is 800 pages (ISBM 1-55615-518-2), provide detailed descriptions of each function in the Win32 API, in alphabetic order. Each description includes the function's syntax, purpose, parameters, and possible return values. Many descriptions also contain additional information, such as whether the function supports Unicode.

Volume 5 (ISBN 1-55615-519-0) is a detailed reference to the data types, messages, structures, macros, and Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) transactions used by the Win32 functions. They are listed alphabetically by topic in this 704-page book.

The five volumes in the MICROSOFT WIN32 PROGRAMMER'S REFERENCE library are part of the growing Microsoft Professional Reference series from Microsoft Press--authorized editions designed for serious programmers, consultants, and corporate developers.

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

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ "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 Win32 Programmer's References

By Microsoft Corporation

Five volumes, $20.00 each

Pub. Date: July 19, 1993

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

206-882-8080


Running Microsoft FoxPro for MS-DOS

The Microsoft Guide to Learning and Using the FoxPro High-Performance Database Management System for MS-DOS

RUNNING MICROSOFT FOXPRO FOR MS-DOS--the easy-to-understand guide to the leading dBASE compatible database management system (DBMS) for MS-DOS--is now available from Microsoft Press.

Microsoft FoxPro version 2.5 for MS-DOS is an exciting advancement in character-based database management technology. Its lightning fast speed and the powerful Xbase language that controls it allow database users unprecedented performance and flexibility.

In RUNNING MICROSOFT FOXPRO FOR MS-DOS, PCMagazine contributing editor and database expert Sal Ricciardi shows how the speed and power of this state-of-the-art software can be put to use by those with little or no DBMS experience. Readers will discover key techniques to help them construct interesting and rewarding database projects right away. Whether it's a detailed explanation of database design or a quick look-up for a procedure using one of the sophisticated query tools of FoxPro, this hands-on guide to Microsoft FoxPro version 2.5 for MS-DOS is packed with answers. Each chapter clearly introduces at least one key topic and practical examples reinforce concepts and correct procedures. Hundreds of screen illustrations show exactly how the readers' computer screens should look as they follow the examples. And when they're ready to move on to more advanced topics, users of FoxPro will find tips, strategies, and solutions often not found in the product documentation. It could be the only guide users of FoxPro will ever need. Readers get expert information and advice on:

* The basics of FoxPro--planning and creating databases; adding, editing, and deleting records; and creating multi-table databases.

* Using graphical tools and features in FoxPro, such as the Command window, Browse window, and Relational Query By Example window.

* Understanding advanced features like importing and exporting data between FoxPro and other applications, designing and creating sophisticated queries and reports, and understanding FoxPro programming language basics.

A comprehensive table of contents and a thorough, fully cross-referenced index helps readers quickly locate information about any topic in the book.

PCMagazine readers have enjoyed Sal Ricciardi's database management articles for years. In addition to his work at PCMagazine, he has written for Home Office Computing, PC Sources, PC Week and many other publications. He has programmed in many different PC languages, developed database applications, installed local area networks, developed mainframe software, and worked as a consultant.

RUNNING MICROSOFT FOXPRO FOR MS-DOS joins Sal Ricciardi's recently published Running Microsoft FoxPro for Windows as the newest of the Microsoft-authorized software guides in the Running series from Microsoft Press. Other titles in the series include the classic Running MS-DOS by Van Wolverton, the bestselling Running Microsoft Excel from The Cobb Group, Running Windows 3.1 by Craig Stinson, Running Word for Windows and Running Microsoft Mail for Windows by Russell Borland, Running Visual Basic for Windows by Ross Nelson, and Running Microsoft Access by John Viescas.

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

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ "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.

Running Microsoft FoxPro for MS-DOS

by Sal Ricciardi

512 pages, $24.95

ISBN: 1-55615-556-5

Pub. Date: August 12, 1993

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

206-882-8080


Artisoft Shipping T-Runner Concentrators
ARTISOFT NOW SHIPPING T-RUNNER 800/TC, 1200/TC CONCENTRATORS

(TUCSON, AZ - July 19, 1993) - Artisoft, Inc. announced today that it has begun shipping its two new external, 10BASE-T concentrators, which were announced last month. The T-Runner 800/TC, an eight-port concentrator priced at $449, and the T-Runner 1200/TC, a twelve-port concentrator priced at $749, are compatible with a variety of networking environments including Artisoft's LANtastic Local Area Network and Novell's NetWare network operating system.

These non-managed concentrators are in 100% compliance with the IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standards and contain a BNC connector that allows concentrators to be linked to one another via thin coax cable. In addition, the BNC connector allows for the mixing of cable types. For example, the T-Runner concentrators enable users on a 10BASE-T segment to connect and communicate with users on a coax segment. These two concentrators also include an auto partitioning feature that automatically disables ports that do not have link integrity.

Artisoft develops and manufactures a full line of innovative, cost-effective network communication solutions including the award-winning LANtastic Local Area Network. Recognized as the leader in peer-to-peer networking for DOS and Windows environments, the LANtastic network also offers multiplatform connectivity solutions for NetWare, TCP/IP and Macintosh systems. It allows up to 500 users on one network to connect and share information and peripheral devices such as printers, hard drives and CD-ROMs. Artisoft maintains nine international offices and distributes the LANtastic network and its other connectivity products in over 70 countries worldwide.

For more information about Artisoft or its product line, contact Artisoft, Inc. at 2202 N. Forbes Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85745. Sales 800/233-5564, ext. 611. Corporate 602/670-7100. Fax 602/670-7101.


Tutorial Sessions Planned at Networking Shows
NETWARE USERS INTERNATIONAL, LAN TIMES AND BRUNO BLENHEIM PLAN TUTORIAL SESSIONS

Three Forces in the Computer Networking Industry Plan Cooperative Conferences for NetWare Users

(Fort Lee, NJ, July 16) -- Three important forces in the computer networking industry -- NetWare Users International (NUI), LAN Times, and Bruno Blenheim Inc. (BBI), the leading producer of computer trade shows in the U.S. -- will sponsor a special track of Tutorials at two of BBI's networking shows.

The first will be at NetWorld '93 Dallas, on Monday, Oct. 4, 1993. The show -- the premier forum for real world business solutions using networked computing -- will run Oct. 5-7, at the Dallas Convention Center in Dallas, TX.

The agreement includes NUI and LAN Times sponsorship and cooperative promotion of the Tutorials and the shows. The agreement also extends to Blenheim's Networks Expo Boston, Feb. 15-17, 1994, at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, MA. The agreement was signed by Mark Brooks, president of NUI-North American Region; Michaela O'Connor Abrams, publisher of LAN Times; and Ralph J. Ianuzzi, Sr., chairman and CEO of Bruno Blenheim Inc.

Mark Brooks of NUI described the Tutorials as an excellent opportunity to provide a high quality of information to NUI members as well as to all attendees at Blenheim's computer networking events.

"The NetWorld Tutorials are an expansion of our mission to educate LAN users about NetWare and other network technologies," said Mr. Brooks. "With the backing of NUI, Bruno Blenheim and LAN Times, these sessions will present an unmatched level of management and technical expertise that will provide network managers with comprehensive information to help enhance a return on their computer networking investment."

One Tutorial, at NetWorld Dallas, will present real world case studies and strategic MBA-level business management ideas, including the use of option pricing methods from finance, to networking. Dr. Robert J. Kauffman, Assoc. Professor of Information Systems at the Stern School of Business at New York University, will moderate this Tutorial -- #T17, "Justifying Investment in Network Technologies: The New MBA Toolkit."

NetWare Users International (NUI) is an international network of more than 250 NetWare user groups that promotes the exchange of information among more than 100,000 users of NetWare and related products worldwide. Mr. Brooks is a senior LAN specialist at TIAA-CREF in New York City.

LAN Times is an internationally circulated magazine, published twice a month by McGraw-Hill, Inc., in San Mateo, CA. The magazine's editorial focus is on PC-based networking, including network design, installation, configuration, applications and management, covering LANs as well as WANs.

Mr. Ianuzzi said the agreement will provide business users of network technology with the latest NetWare and networking information.

"All three participants in the agreement share a common goal of serving the industry by providing objective, user-driven information and insights," said Mr. Ianuzzi. "Because our show attendees read LAN Times, and include thousands of NUI members, we can pool our collective resources to the benefit of network users everywhere."

More than 495 exhibitors are expected at the Dallas show including: 3Com Corp., American Power Conversion, Artisoft, AT&T, Banyan, Brightwork Development, Cabletron, Chipcom, Compaq, Digital Equipment Corp., Folio, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, IBM, Lotus, Madge Networks, Microsoft, Novell, Proteon, Quarterdeck, SMC, SynOptics, Thomas-Conrad, Xircom, Wellfleet Communications and WordPerfect.

In addition to the Tutorials, the Blenheim show will also feature the most comprehensive seminar program ever, with nine seminar tracks featuring 85 planned sessions covering topics such as interoperability, applications, network management and enterprise-wide networking

BBI is part of Blenheim Group PLC, a worldwide producer of conferences and exhibitions with more than 250 events, including more than 250 information technology (I.T.) events.

Blenheim also produces other trade events serving business users of computer technology, including PC EXPO in New York, PC EXPO in Chicago, and UNIX EXPO, along with European Networks shows in France, Germany, England, Sweden and Denmark.

Bruno Blenheim Inc

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

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


SyDOS MARLIN 105e 3.5" 105MB Cartridge Drive
SyDOS INTRODUCES NEW MARLIN 105e

External Removable Cartridge Disk Drive with SCSI Interface

BOCA RATON, FL (July 20, 1993) SyDOS, a division of SyQuest Technology and leader in the removable storage industry, introduced today the MARLIN 105e a high-performance 3.5" 105MB external removable cartridge disk drive featuring the Small Computer System Interface (SCSI). The MARLlN 105e joins the recently announced MARLIN 105i which is the internal version with an IDE interface.

The MARLIN 105e incorporates SyQuest removable technology into a compact 3.5" form factor with 105MB of incremental storage. The state-of-the-art drive employs proven Winchester technology performing like a fixed drive with performance capabilities superior to optical drives and significantly less expensive.

"The MARLIN 105e is our highest performance 3.5" external removable cartridge disk drive. With its SCSI interface, the MARLIN 105e can co-reside with other fixed drives and its 105MB storage capacity makes it ideal for the user who requires the high-capacity, quality and performance of a removable Winchester disk drive," comments Linda Haury, SyDOS vice president of marketing.

The MARLIN 105e features two SCSI connections providing flexibility in daisy chaining up to 7 SyQuest devices. With an average access time of 14.5 msec, the MARLIN 105e provides exceptional performance and can be used with virtually any DOS or Windows-based PC.

Unlimited Storage and Backup Benefits

"Today's computer user is demanding state-of-the-art storage solutions which allow a variety of options. The MARLIN 105e is a prime example of how SyDOS is providing cost-effective storage solutions for the increased demands of the market," adds Haury. Users have an ideal solution for unlimited data storage and high-speed backup as well as data transportability, security and data archiving all in one subsystem. Unlimited storage and a variety of applications are available to the user by merely inserting another 105MB SyQuest cartridge.

Complete Package

The MARLIN 105e is offered as a value pack or custom solution for the sophisticated user. The MARLIN 105e Value Pack comes complete with the drive, 105MB SyQuest data cartridge, installation software with easy-to-use instructions, users manual, SCSI cable, and SCSI 8-bit adapter card. With an estimated street price of under $750, it includes everything a user needs to be up and running in minutes. A MARLIN 105e Custom Package is available for those users who want to purchase separately one of five host adapters available from SyDOS or who already have a SCSI interface in their computer. The estimated street price for the Custom Package is under $700 with additional 105MB cartridges running under $100. And, for those who are on-the-go, an optional battery pack is also available for increased portability.

SyDOS offers warranties on its products that are unsurpassed in the industry with a full 2-year warranty on the drive and 5-year warranty on the cartridge. The MARLIN 105e is available for immediate shipment.

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 products, the company manufactures a full line of removable cartridge disk drives and Host Bus Adapter Kits for the PC and compatibles marketplace as well as CD-ROM products. The SyDOS product line is sold through major resellers, distributors and superstores worldwide.

Removable cartridge disk drive subsystems currently are available in 5.25" 44MB and 88MB capacities in internal, external and dual configurations. SyDOS also recently announced the PUMA 105, a 3.5" external 105MB drive that joins the PUMA 44 and 88 product line which feature a fixed parallel port for ease of installation and transportability. Also available is the MARLIN 105i, an internal 3.5" 105MB removable cartridge disk drive with a 16-bit IDE adapter and 14.5ms access time. The PRO NOTE is a 2.5" 42MB external removable cartridge disk drive perfect for the notebook and laptop marketplace. Its small size and light weight case make it ideal for the busy traveler . The company also entered the CD-ROM market in 1993 with the low-cost Personal CD with a fixed parallel port, and recently announced the Executive CD featuring MPC compliance for multimedia applications and photo CD capability. This multisession CD-ROM is a low-cost solution that's ideal for beginners as well as experienced CD-ROM users.

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 1,000,000 disk drives and over 5 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


NEC Intros VersaPad Pen Tablet System
NEC INTRODUCES THE VERSAPAD: NEWEST MEMBER OF THE VERSA FAMILY

A Pen Tablet System that Combines Lightweight and Superior Price-Performance with Maximum Functionality

(Boxborough, Mass., July 19, 1993)--NEC Technologies, Inc. today expands its Versa family with the introduction of the VersaPad--a superior price-performing, lightweight pen tablet. With prices starting at $2,999, the VersaPad pen tablet offers a significant price-performance breakthrough in pen-based computing, while incorporating the latest innovations in pen-tablet technology. Consistent with NEC's reputation for technological achievement and quality, the VersaPad pen tablet's award-winning design is built specifically to maximize the productivity of the mobile professional.

"NEC is committed to versatile, expandable solutions that meet the needs of the mobile professional and the VersaPad pen tablet is especially designed for mobile corporate users who want to use pen as their primary method of input," said Bob Levin, director of portable marketing at NEC Technologies. "To date, users have been hindered by the lack of high-performance, reasonably priced tablets. NEC responded to this challenge by building a tablet computer that maximizes performance, minimizes weight, and meets our high-quality standard at an extremely competitive price."

The Versa Family of Innovative Products

Like the UltraLite Versa notebook computer, the VersaPad pen tablet offers greater computing performance with up to double the battery life of other pen tablets. The VersaPad pen tablet's i486SL processor from Intel Corporation, 3.3 volt, 20MHz design provides uncompromising performance and extended battery life for even the most powerful mobile applications. The VersaPad pen tablet offers 4MB RAM (expandable to 20MB), up to an 80MB internal HDD, a 9.4" transreflective display for clear viewing indoors or outside, a full complement of standard ports, including an Enhanced Parallel Port (EPP) and an external SVGA CRT port capable of displaying simultaneous video.

In addition, the VersaPad pen tablet provides two ExCA compatible PCMCIA Type II slots for easy user configuration of industry standard I/O peripherals such as fax modems, local area network cards, flash memory cards and wireless communications devices.

Enhanced Versatility

The VersaPad pen tablet, originally introduced as the UltraLite Autograph pen computer, has been enhanced to incorporate three new differentiating features-- maximum hard disk storage has been increased from 40 to 80MB, allowing users to choose the disk that best suits their needs; system RAM is now user-expandable to 20MB; and Handwriter, from CIC, has been bundled to provide VersaPad users with an advanced handwriting recognition capability.

Like the UltraLite Versa notebook, the VersaPad pen tablet's versatility enables users to swap batteries without leaving their application or powering down the system, and to easily add communication and storage devices with credit-card size PCMCIA cards.

Additionally, the VersaPad pen tablet now supports all four of the leading pen-computing operating environments--Windows for Pen Computing, PenPoint, PenRight! and PenDOS. The VersaPad pen tablet's dual-boot versatility allows users to load Windows for Pen Computing and PenPoint on the same system.

Innovations

The VersaPad pen tablet incorporates a long list of technological innovations including:

-- Handwriter Recognition Engine

The VersaPad pen tablet comes standard with Communication Intelligence Corporation's (CIC), Handwriting Recognition System (HRS) for the Windows for Pen Computing and PenDOS operating environments. Offering a more natural input style especially suited for portable computing, the HRS software allows users to readily interact with the VersaPad pen tablet.

-- Local Bus Video

NEC has pioneered local bus video for the portable computer. With this added feature, users will experience improved video performance especially in graphical pen environments.

-- PCMCIA Type II Slots

NEC's commitment to open architectures and industry standards is demonstrated by the inclusion of two PCMCIA Type II slots in the VersaPad pen tablet. (Loading PCMCIA cards is as easy as inserting a floppy disk into a portable computer.) NEC's implementation of QuickSwap allows for features such as changing cards without powering down the system.

-- HotZone Icons

Similar in concept to keyboard function keys, NEC has innovated programmable HotZone icons that allow quick, easy access to frequently used functions. By simply tapping the active HotZone icons with the pen, a user can access various pre-defined functions such as: the system setup menu, turning the backlight on and off, reversing the video, as well as several other common tasks. The programmable HotZone icons allow VARs, ISVs and corporate developers to integrate more commonly used functions into their software applications.

-- Low Power Design

As with the UltraLite Versa notebook computer, NEC integrates 3.3 volt technology throughout the VersaPad pen tablet, giving users significant improvements on battery life independent of usage. Combined with NEC's implementation of Advanced Power Management (APM), the VersaPad pen tablet is able to run from 3 to 5 hours on a standard NiMH battery pack and, with an optional double capacity battery pack, users can double their battery life from 6 to 8 hours. An internal bridge battery allows users to switch batteries without exiting an application or powering down the system.

-- Notebook Carrying Case

When used as a general purpose productivity tool, the VersaPad pen tablet can reside in its specifically designed Notebook Carrying Case which holds both an optional 83-key portable keyboard and the tablet in notebook style. By using its built-in hinge, the VersaPad pen tablet's Notebook Carrying Case is capable of supporting the display at a comfortable viewing angle, allowing for stationary input of general purpose applications such as word Processing and communications.

Availability and Service

The VersaPad pen tablet, is available immediately through NEC's nationwide network of authorized dealers and Value Added Resellers in mass production. The VersaPad pen tablet comes standard with a one-year depot warranty. VersaPad users may also subscribe to the NEC UltraCare Warranty Service Program for extended coverage.

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

NEC Technologies

1414 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough, MA 01719-2298

508-264-8000


Power PEN PAL Apps to Run On NEC VersaPad
POWER PEN PAL ENABLES QUICK VERTICAL APPLICATION DESIGN FOR NEC VERSAPAD

LOS ALTOS, CALIF., JULY 19 -- PEN PAL Associates today announced that applications designed with the Power PEN PAL application development tools will run immediately on the new NEC VersaPad family of pen tablet computers without modification. Power PEN PAL is designed to be the fastest, easiest way to create new pen computer applications for vertical market use.

"The introduction of the NEC VersaPad family provides users with high-quality, state of the art pen computing platforms," said Samuel J. Wiegand, president, PEN PAL Associates. "And Power PEN PAL will enable those users to design and test their applications in a matter of days. The applications can be performing critical roles for the enterprise within a week."

Power PEN PAL is designed for creating vertical applications such as data collection, route accounting, medical reporting, survey taking, field engineering, field sales and claims adjusting, by organizations in such industries as food and beverage, medical, automotive, transportation, mining, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, distribution, government and education. Power PEN PAL applications are also optimized for communications to other applications and databases, including via wireless carriers, such as infra-red, cellular or spread spectrum channels.

There currently are scores of applications that already have been created by value-added-resellers (VARs) and independent software vendors (ISVs) using Power PEN PAL. These applications will run on the NEC VersaPad computers with no modification required.

PEN PAL Associates applauded the introduction of the VersaPad line of pen tablet computers as an important advance in the field of pen computing. "The availability of the VersaPad family will encourage the design and implementation of more pen computing applications, and stimulate the roll-out larger of implementations of pen systems in a greater profusion of organizations," said Samuel J. Wiegand.

The newest version of Power PEN PAL is Release 4.0, which began shipping in April 1993. Release 4.0 includes many new features that enhance its power and ease of use.

Applications designed in Power Pen Pal Release 4.0 offer broad platform independence, since Release 4.0 supports all of the major pen computer hardware platforms running the DOS operating system, including both the PenDOS pen operating environment from Communication Intelligence Corporation (CIC), Redwood Shores, Calif., and the PenRight! pen operating environment from the PenRight! unit of GRiD Systems, Fremont, Calif.

"Release 4.0 of Power PEN PAL is designed to be the most powerful and flexible application development environment for creating pen-based applications independent of both platforms and operating environments," said Samuel J. Wiegand. "Applications developed using Power Pen Pal Release 4.0 will run on any PenRight! or PenDOS based system, which includes the NEC VersaPad family of pen tablet computers."

Release 4.0's support of the CIC PenDOS environment brings key advantages, including broader handwritten character recognition, with fuller character sets and extensive localized international character sets; compatibility with standard off-the shelf DOS programs; and the ability to incorporate CIC's Dynamic Signature Verification system into applications.

Users of Power Pen Pal Release 4.0 have been enthusiastic about the new features. Pete McCoy, technical specialist for the Alabama State Auditor's office said, "I love Release 4.0. It has more features, particularly the ability to import existing DBF files. Power PEN PAL is a very good product, and ease of use is its best characteristic."

Debra Ann Champ, engineer, distribution, at Monongahela Power, said, "The Power PEN PAL 4.0 development environment with its command templates and menus is easy to use by those without programming experience, but also allows advanced programmers to use their programming knowledge to produce sophisticated applications in a short period of time."

Power PEN PAL is available for $695. PEN PAL offers a special upgrade price of $95 to users of other versions of Power PEN PAL. The PEN PAL runtime control program has a suggested list price of $65. Quantity discount schedules for Power PEN PAL and for the PEN PAL runtime control program are available to both resellers and end-users directly from PEN PAL Associates, by calling (415) 903-3850.

Power PEN PAL Release 4.0 is targeted at vertical application developers, and is marketed through OEM, ISV and VAR channels. Based in Los Altos, California, PEN PAL Associates, Inc. is focused on making pen computers an important and easy-to-use tool for business productivity. PEN PAL has developed two products for pen-based application development: Personal PEN PAL and Power PEN PAL. The suggested list price for Personal PEN PAL is $395.

Pen Pal Associates Inc

4970 El Camino Real, Suite 200, Los Altos, CA 94022

415-903-3850,  fax 415-961-0995


PenRight! Swr Offered on NEC VersaPad
PenRight! Software To Be Offered On The NEC VersaPad

Irvine, CA, July 19, 1993 -- Effective today, the NEC VersaPad pen computer now supports PenRight! and is able to run the more than 400 applications currently available in the PenRight! operating environment. The 4 pound NEC VersaPad is a powerful 486SL tablet pen computer designed to be used in mobile data collection, order entry, sales, claims inspections, and medical record keeping applications.

"By combining PenRight! and the NEC VersaPad, NEC can now provide mobile workers with a full-featured platform on which to run vertical applications," said Bobbi Burns, director of sales and marketing, software products in the vertical systems group of AST Research, Inc.

Recent reports from industry analysts indicate that PenRight! has captured more than 80 percent of the pen-based market. In the last year, PenRight! sales have increased more than 200 percent.

The NEC VersaPad has been certified by PenRight! and now has the ability to run applications developed in the PenRight! environment for such industries as pharmaceutical, transportation, government, public safety, consumer goods, health care, oil & gas, and utilities. The PenRight! applications were developed to meet customer needs in performing such vertical tasks as data collection, inspections, route accounting, inventory control, shipping and receiving, sales force automation and patient monitoring.

"The largest opportunity for pen-based computing is in the vertical mission-specific applications," said Renee Bader, manager strategic marketing, portable computer systems, NEC. "The PenRight! operating environment continues to lead the market in corporate acceptance for this category. NEC plans to utilize PenRight!'s established community of developers that have shipped proven applications for the past three years. "

The applications running in the PenRight! environment were developed with application development tools including PenRight! Pro, padBase, Power Pen Pal and dataNow. NEC is licensing PenRight! for resale to users wanting to run software under the PenRight! environment.

The NEC VersaPad now joins the Fujitsu PoqetPad, GRiD Convertible and PalmPAD, NCR 3125/3130, Norand PenView, and Samsung PenMaster as products currently licensed to run applications developed with the PenRight! operating environment.

PenRight! is a DOS based graphical user interface and handwriting recognition system for upper and lower case characters, pen gestures and international language support (U.S. English, U.K. English, French, French Canadian, Spanish, German, Italian, Danish, Norwegian).


Sheng Labs BestPAL Compiler for Paradox 4.0
SHENG LABS ANNOUNCES NEW COMPILER FOR BORLAND'S PARADOX 4.0

Beaverton, Orgeon, May 16, 1993 -- Sheng Labs Inc. today announced the addition of BestPAL, a highly compatible compiler for Paradox 4.0, to its PC application-development compiler family. Priced at $795 and available in the summer of 1993, BestPAL provides Paradox application developers a familiar user interface, a powerful and complete development environment, and a secure, royalty-free way to distribute their applications.

"Developers are always looking for ways to speed up their applications," said Richard Sheng, president of Sheng Labs. "BestPAL's compilation process gives developers exactly what they are asking for: SPEED, SPEED and SPEED. Furthermore, optimized for 386, 486 and Pentium processors, BestPAL compiled applications will run up to 200% faster compared to running under Paradox or runtime."

"The new release of Paradox 4.0 is built for speed," said Daniel Klaussen, Paradox DOS product manager for Borland International. "BestPAL users will undoubtedly note the improvement." Paradox 4.0 sets new standards for DOS-based relational database management systems. With a Windows-like user interface, tremendous power and performance gains, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL, Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users. It includes the industry-standard Query By Example (QBE) for fast interactive database querying. Paradox can also store and retrieve Binary Large Objects (BLObs) in memo fields. BLObs can contain any type of binary data including graphics, sound and multimedia files.

BestPAL is designed for fast learning and efficient operation, supporting Query By Example, multi-user operations, mouse, pulldown and popup menus, dialog boxes, event-driven programming, and memo fields. BestPAL also supports not only extended memory, but also virtual memory, allowing PAL programmers to create as many variables and procedures as needed, without regard to end-user systems' actual RAM.

According to Sheng, BestPAL's unusually high level of PAL compatibility is a key feature. "Except for the rare case where an existing script modifies Paradox Report/Form/Graph on the fly, programmers can use BestPAL without any modification of their code," Sheng said. "With this single exception, BestPAL adheres 100 percent to standard PAL, which we believe makes it the most compatible PAL compiler yet developed."

Similar to Borland's Turbo C and Turbo Pascal, BestPAL not only includes a script compiler, editor, and linker but also provides a complete and integrated environment for developing and debugging applications. For increasing the productivity of both novice and power users, the environment supports symbolic debugging, regular and conditional break points, watch points and procedure call stack.

Combining the best features of Paradox Runtime and Paradox Engine, adds Sheng, BestPAL also fits in the gap between the two. "With BestPAL, developers can produce standalone, executable object code that's both more secure than source and faster than applications developed under Paradox Runtime," he explains. "Like Paradox Engine, BestPAL lets programmers include C and assembly functions in their code for faster execution. But unlike Paradox Engine, BestPAL doesn't require that programmers work in any language besides PAL."

Supporting also the distribution side of developers' work, BestPAL includes a utility that bundles Paradox objects, thus reducing the total number of files in an application. Additionally, because BestPAL frees developers from releasing source code, it lets them distribute product without paying royalties or submitting to any other distribution limitation.

BestPAL is priced at $795 retail and including a 60-day money-back guarantee. For more information on BestPAL, contact Sheng Labs, Inc., 4470 S.W. Hall St., Suite 282, Beaverton, OR 97005; phone 800/548-1270 or 503/646-3691; fax 503/641-8822.

Paradox 4.0, available from Borland, has a suggested retail price of $795. The Paradox 4.0 LAN Pack, which adds one additional user to the network, retails for $395. Registered owners of Paradox (version 2.0 and higher) can upgrade for $199.95. All suggested retail rpices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada.


WindowsMAKER Professional 5.0 Prototyper
Blue Sky Software announces WindowsMAKER Professional 5.0

San Diego, Borland International Conference May 16, 1993--Blue Sky Software Corporation announced today that it will begin shipping WindowsMAKER Professional version 5.0, the computer industry's highest performance Prototyper and C/C++ Code Generator for Windows, in the second quarter of 1993.

WindowsMAKER Professional 5.0 is the only Prototyper and C/C++ Code Generator that:

* Generates ANSI C, OWL, or MFC code AND lets users set properties and attributes for any control in either windows or dialog boxes.

* Allows users to edit during Preview Mode. Preview the application before compiling to make changes, it's fast and easy. Double click to edit, then continue test running the application. The most powerful tool for usability testing and rapid prototyping.

* Provides the fastest way to develop Windows applications; includes screen designer with drag and drop editing, SmartMenus appear where developers work (through the right mouse button), user configurable tool palette lets them tailor their environment, and users can capture dialog boxes and menus from other programs. Nothing is faster!

* Has application templates. Use pre-defined templates or users can define their own to give them a flying start each time they start a new design.

* Provides the most functionality and the fastest code generation. Users can create full-featured, professional applications in record time.

Says beta tester Mike Facer at Weworski & Associates: "This is the prototyper and C/C++ code generator I have been waiting for, for years. It's more visual and easier to use than VisualBasic and generates C/C++ Code.

"WindowsMAKER Professional is a powerful prototyper and code generator for the C++ developer," says Michael Hyman, Senior Product Manager for Borland C++. "We're very pleased that Blue Sky is making it available to our C++ installed base."

Key features of WindowsMAKER Professional 5.0 include:

* WYSIWYG Prototyper -- one click turns your prototype into

  C or C++ source code

* Supports code generation for ANSI C, OWL, MFC, OS/2 XVT

  and more.

* Full toolbar support -- one click to define a toolbar for

  your application

* Supports special effects such as fonts, colors, 3D buttons

  and patterns

* SmartMenus available wherever you are working

* Full MDI application support (Preview, Cascade, Tile,

  Iconize, etc.)

* Generates code for on-line help support including

  context-sensitive help SHIFT+F1

* Supports style settings for any control (fonts, font &

  background color, bitmap buttons)

* Supports property settings for any control (messages to

  process & functionality)

* Application templates give you a flying start

* Extendible open architecture

With WindowsMAKER Professional 5.0 Blue Sky Software offers a tool that gives developers the freedom to choose which compiler to use -- they are not locked-in to one compiler as they would be if they chose a code generator made by a compiler manufacturer. WindowsMAKER Professional offers the widest compiler support in the industry, giving users the freedom to work with the compiler (or compilers) of their choice: Use Borland C++ 2.0/3.x, Microsoft Visual C++, C6 or C7, Zortech C++ and more.

WindowsMAKER Professional's Switch-It Code generation Modules also offer complete flexibility. It provides the freedom to switch to any language or major C++ library during the development of the application. Users can generate code for ANSI C, OWL, MFC for Windows 3.1, Win32s and Windows NT, OS/2, XVT and others -- all from one design. This means they can start their project right away and switch the type of code to generate later.

Pricing and Availability

WindowsMAKER Professional 5.0 including the ANSI C Switch-It Code Generation Module (for Windows 3.1, Win32s, and Windows NT) will have a retail price of $1096 and will begin shipping during Q2 1993. Registered users of WindowsMAKER Professional version 4.0 can upgrade for $269. Users who buy WindowsMAKER Professional 4.0 within 6 weeks of the WindowsMAKER Professional 5.0 ship date can upgrade for free. For ordering information, contact Blue Sky Software Sales Department at 1-800-677-4WIN or 619-459-6365

System Requirements

Windows 3.x

Borland C++ or Windows 3.x compatible compiler

Blue Sky Software Corp

7486 La Jolla Blvd, Suite 3, La Jolla, CA 92037

619-459-6365,  619-459-6366,  1-800-677-4WIN


Visual SQL C Code generator for Client/Servers
Blue Sky Software to Preview Visual SQL

San Diego, Borland International Conference May 16, 1993 -- Blue Sky Software Corp. announced today that it will preview Visual SQL, a prototyper and ANSI C source code generator for creating Windows client/server applications.

Previous to Visual SQL, writing Windows client/server applications in C was a tedious task requiring in-depth knowledge about both the database Application Programming Interface (API) for the various database systems and the Windows API. Additionally, testing the application required compiling and linking before new code could be executed and tested. With Visual SQL this is no longer necessary.

Blue Sky Software's Visual SQL makes it significantly easier for developers by creating native Windows client/server applications that work with SQL and ODBC databases. Unlike competing products which use proprietary languages, Visual SQL, which works with industry standard C or C++ compilers, generates ANSI C source code that makes direct calls to the Windows API and the database API. The resulting applications run far more quickly than traditional interpretive or script based Windows client/server applications.

With Visual SQL, as the developer visually designs an application in Windows, database access can be built right into the application. Not only does Visual SQL save time by generating the exact C source code for the design, it also offers a powerful Preview Mode to test run the application without having to go through the traditional compile and link cycle first. This provides a very rapid development cycle and greatly enhances the developers productivity. Now developers can present their database design to end-users for immediate CompuServe: 75120, 737  interactive feedback. Non-programmers can build complete working applications that include menus, graphics, data entry windows, mouse support and on-line help. Users without C programming experience can build client/server applications without writing a single line of code. Experienced developers will benefit even more from Visual SQL. They can quickly generate thousands of lines of complex, easily modifiable C source code; code that would take professional programmers months of work. Visual SQL provides unlimited access to the generated C source code, so programmers can add their own code if so desired.

"Visual SQL is a very useful tool for Borland C++ programmers working on client/server applications," says Michael Hyman, Senior Product Manager for Borland C++. "It demonstrates the depth and breadth of tools available for Borland's installed base of C++ developers."

Visual SQL offers true visual programming -- the ability to visually map data from the database into the application screens by using the mouse. While designing the data entry screens with the powerful screen painter, the developer can add database actions directly behind buttons and the various controls by pointing & clicking. For developers that are unfamiliar with the SQL syntax, Visual SQL also includes a powerful query prototyper to visually create SQL statements. Never before has Windows client/server application development been this fast and easy.

Visual SQL generates source code for access to ORACLE, SQL Server, Integra SQL, dBase files and all databases supporting Microsoft ODBC. No royalties or runtime fees apply.

Pricing and Availability

Visual SQL will ship during Q3 1993 at a retail price of $4900. For ordering information, contact the Blue Sky Software Sales Department at l-800-6774WIN or 619459-6365.

System Requirements

Windows 3.x

Borland C++ or Windows 3.1 Compatible Compiler

Blue Sky Software Corp

7486 La Jolla Blvd, Suite 3, La Jolla, CA 92037

619-459-6365,  619-459-6366,  1-800-677-4WIN


AdaptAccounts 4.0 Integrated Accounting
Adapta Ships New Accounting Modules for Borland's Paradox

VICTORIA, Canada -- May 17, 1993 -- Adapta Software is now shipping AdaptAccounts 4.0, the new version of its adaptable family of integrated accounting database applications. AdaptAccounts 4.0 combines proven flexibility with the power of Paradox 4.0 and provides easy access from Paradox for Windows.

"We're very pleased Adapta has updated their products in conjunction with our release of Paradox 4.0" said Daniel Klaussen, Paradox DOS Product Manager for Borland International. "The interface and performance enhancements we've made provide important benefits to Adapta's accounting users."

Paradox 4.0 sets new standards for DOS-based relational database management systems. With a windows-like user interface, tremendous power and performance gains, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL, Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users. It includes the industry standard Query By Example (QBE) for fast interactive database querying. Paradox can also store and retrieve Binary Large Objects (BLObs) in memo fields. BLObs can contain any type of binary data including graphics, sound and multimedia files.

The System Manager, General Ledger, Financial Reporter, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, Inventory, Sales Orders, Job Costing and Bill of Materials application modules are all shipping now. Payroll is planned to ship later this year. Applications fully integrate with each other, and may also be installed separately. All modules are available in multi-user or single-user versions with full source code available. They can be easily integrated with other applications and include full transaction importing facilities and validation of externally loaded data.

The AdaptAccounts 4.0 modules have been extensively rewritten to take full advantage of many new Paradox 4.0 features for both user interface and performance benefits. An expanded Developer's Toolkit provides additional on-line technical documentation together with menu generation. Developer's Licenses, Reseller pricing and Demo versions are available.

AdaptAccounts advanced accounting functionality features include unlimited open years and periods, complete audit trails and support for multiple companies, departments, currencies, banks and subledgers. In January 1993, AdaptAccounts won the Paradox Informant Reader's Choice award for Best Accounting Software for Paradox.

Pricing and Availability

AdaptAccounts pricing is unchanged from the 3.5 version and ranges from US$ 295 to US$ 1,095 per module. The General Accounting 5-module pack ranges from US$ 1,295 to US$ 3,895.

Paradox 4.0, available from Borland, has a suggested retail price of $795. The Paradox 4.0 LAN Pack, which adds one additional user to the network, retails for $395. Registered owners of Paradox (version 2.0 and higher) can upgrade for $199.95. All suggested retail prices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada.

Adapta Software Inc. was founded in 1986 to develop the AdaptAccounts line of advanced adaptable accounting applications and bring the benefits of modern software and hardware technologies to these traditional applications. The company is committed to enhancing, extending and supporting this application family across Borland's full Paradox range. AdaptAccounts began shipping in 1987, and is installed in distribution, manufacturing and service companies in the U.S. and internationally. It is supported by resellers and consultants in many principal cities.

Adapta Software Inc

4608 Cliffwood Place, Victoria, BC CANADA V8Y 1B5

604-658-8484,  fax 604-658-2108


AccSys for Paradox Supports Paradox 4.0
COPIA'S ACCSYS FOR PARADOX SUPPORTS BORLAND'S PARADOX 4.0

WHEATON, IL - May 16, 1993 - Copia International today announced a new release of AccSys for Paradox that provides full support for Borland's Paradox 4.0.

"Borland has made important performance and interface enhancements with this new release of Paradox," said Steve Hersee, president of Copia International. "Our complete support of Paradox 4.0 demonstrates our pledge to continue providing high-quality tools to the computer software community."

With AccSys for Paradox, C, QuickBASlC and Visual Basic (Windows and DOS) programmers can create, read, write and upgrade Paradox tiles without having to concern themselves with the Paradox Internal file formats. AccSys for Paradox comes network ready and supports all memory models of the popular compilers. AccSys for Paradox is so dependant that it was chosen to be part of Microsoft Access and Lotus 1-2-3.

AccSys for Paradox' unique design makes our performance noticeably smaller and taster than other libraries. By utilizing various DOS Extenders with AccSys for Paradox, the size of your application can be expanded to 10 times the typical application size. AccSys for Paradox is available with optional Source Code to allow for program environment and multi platform customization. Windows (DLL & Library) also comes with AccSys for Paradox.

Paradox 4.0 sets new standards for DOS-based relational database management systems. With a windows-like user interface, tremendous power and performance gains, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL, Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users. It includes the industry-standard Query By Example (QBE) for fast interactive database querying. Paradox can also store and retrieve Binary Large Objects (BLObs) in memo fields. BLObs can contain any type of binary data including graphics, sound and multimedia tiles.

For current users of AccSys for Paradox, the upgrade price for this new release is $119 For the basic product (which comes complete With network capabilities) the price is $395. The product with Source can be purchased for $995.

Paradox 4.0, available from Borland, has a suggested retail price of $795. The Paradox 4.0 LAN Pack, which adds one additional user to the network, retails for $199.95. All suggested retail prices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada

AccSys for Paradox is available from Copia International, Ltd. Located in Wheaton, Illinois, Copia is a publisher and developer of software tools and solutions. In addition to the AccSys for Paradox library, Copia also offers the AccSys for dBASE (now for Clipper and FoxPro) database library and FaxFacts, a fully automated Fax-On-Demand system.

Copia International

708-682-8898,  fax 708-665-9841


Quick DOS v1.0 Paradox Documentation Program
QUICK DOC NOW AVAILABLE FOR BORLAND'S PARADOX 4.0

Documentation Program Identifies Optimization Alternatives

HACKETTSTOWN, NJ -- May 1, 1993 -- Computer Program, Inc. (CPI) today announced QUICK DOC version 1.0, an exceptional new program designed to quickly document systems and identify alternate table structures to optimize applications created with Borland's Paradox 4.0.

Paradox 4.0 sets new standards for DOS-based relational database management systems. With a windows-like user interface, tremendous power and performance gains, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL, Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users. It includes the industry-standard Query By Example (QBE) for fast interactive database querying. Paradox can also store and retrieve Binary Large Objects (BLObs) in memo fields. BLObs can contain any type of binary data including graphics, sound and multimedia files.

QUICK DOC gives recommendations for optimizing an application as soon as the tables are created. It automatically flags tables that can be optimized by slightly modifying the table's record length. Optimized tables result in much more efficient use of space and faster processing of queries and reports.

"With QUICK DOC I didn't have to wait until after system development to identify inefficiencies I was able to restructure my tables and rethink my logic before too much time went by in development," said Michelle Douglas, Programmer at Computer Programs, Inc.

"We're very pleased that QUICK DOC has been updated for use with Paradox 4.0," said Daniel Klaussen, Paradox DOS product manager for Borland International. "The performance enhancements we've made, combined with QUICK DOC's table optimizing features, will help Paradox developers create a new generation of fast, efficient applications."

After development, QUICK DOC documents applications for ongoing support. Documenting tables with associated reports and forms gives an overall view of the application and the interaction of table information. Space requirements provide an estimate of the amount of disk space needed for an application.

QUICK DOC has been written using PAL and runs in Paradox 4.0 Runtime. QUICK DOC also documents applications written in older versions of Paradox.

Pricing and Availability

QUICK DOC is available immediately from Computer Programs, Inc. at an introductory price of $89 through June 30, 1993.

Paradox 4.0, available from Borland, has a suggested retail price of $795. The Paradox 4.0 LAN Pack, which adds one additional user to the network, retails for $395. Registered owners of Paradox (version 2.0 and higher) can upgrade for $199.95. All suggested retail prices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada.

Computer Programs, Inc. is a software consulting firm specializing in Paradox system development. Computer Programs, Inc. has been developing and supporting Paradox single and multiuser custom applications for several years.

Computer Programs Inc

110 Mill St, PO Box 188, Hackettstown, NJ 07840

908-850-9733,  fax 908-850-4929


EASTERN SYSTEMS SHIPS NEW SVGA EVALUATOR

A NON-INTRUSIVE AUTOMATED TESTING TOOL THAT INCLUDES SUPPORT FOR WINDOWS NT

Hopkinton, MA. May 16, 1993 -- Eastern Systems announced that it is shipping the SVGA version of its Evaluator automated testing tool. With the SVGA Evaluator, resolutions of up to 1024 x 768 x 256 colors are supported on the system under test. The SVGA Evaluator target card is installed into the system under test and connects to the current graphics card through the industry standard feature connector adapter providing a completely non-intrusive testing environment.

The Evaluator allows developers and testers to thoroughly and non-intrusively test their applications no matter what operating system they are running under. Because the Evaluator is operating system independent, Microsoft Windows NT based software can be exhaustively tested. This new version of the product also allows you to perform compatibility testing of PC based graphics adapters and other hardware devices.

According to Eastern Systems President, Richard Currier, "For a company in today's rapidly changing environment to maintain or increase its market share, software quality and timely product delivery is imperative. As a leader in the software testing market, Eastern Systems is one of the first vendors to release a testing tool that supports Windows NT. This timely testing solution will enable our customers to beat their competitors to market with high quality, Windows NT based technology."

"SVGA Evaluator is a great tool for testing C++ applications," said Michael Hyman, senior product manager for Borland C++. "We're very pleased Eastern Systems is providing Borland-specific software options."

The Evaluator is a PC based, non-intrusive, automated testing tool that supports all major operating systems (MS Windows, NT, OS/2, DOS, etc...). Keystrokes, mouse movements, video capture, and reports can be automatically simulated and verified. Through the use of the Evaluator, powerful GUI test suites can be created that fully exercise an application under test. In addition, PC hardware compatibility testing can be performed non-intrusively.

Price and Availability Two versions of the Evaluator are currently available. The VGA Evaluator retails for $5,895. The new SVGA Evaluator retails for $6,595. The two Borland C/C++ software options for these tools, C Toolkit and GUI Toolkit, are priced at $695 each.

Eastern Systems, Inc., founded in 1984 and headquartered in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, specializes in the development of automated testing tools for the PC and workstation environments. For more information about the Evaluator or to set up a 2 week no charge evaluation of the product, please contact Eastern Systems, Inc. at 508-435-2151.

Eastern Systems Inc

P.O. Box 310 Hopkinton, MA 01748

(508) 435 2151,   Fax (508) 435 2517


EMS Ships New CD-ROM Libs of Borland Dev Tools
EMS Ships new CD-ROM Libraries for Borland Development Tools

Olney, MD -- May 6, 1993 -- EMS Professional Shareware is now shipping updated versions of its programming libraries on CD-ROMs and diskettes. EMS produces libraries for all Borland products, including Paradox, dBASE, C/C++, TurboPascal, and Object Vision, as well as other libraries for Netware, AutoCAD, OS/2, Visual Basic, assembler, windows programming, and many others.

Each EMS library consists of every known public domain and shareware product plus directory databases listing all these and every known commercial tool for each specialty. When a programmer needs to locate a particular type of product, they can find it quickly by vendor, name, type, or free text search across descriptions. "EMS programming libraries on CD-ROM are a valuable resource for developers using Borland products," said Daniel Klaussen, Paradox DOS product manager for Borland International. "CDROM is a very efficient way for developers to locate additional tools -- from shareware or commercial providers." According to EMS owner Eric Engelmann "The world is awash with code developed to solve problems, but it is often easier to reinvent the wheel than actually locate existing solutions. EMS changes that by providing a complete database of all known tools along with a collection of all PD/Shareware products, so that finding the tools you need takes only minutes or seconds."

Pricing and Availability

The libraries are priced from $29.50 to $179 on diskettes, or $59.50 each on CD-ROM and have a 30 day money back guarantee.

EMS can be reached at (301) 924-3594 or by Fax at (301) 963-2708. EMS was established in 1984, and ships 11,000 professional software products to customers in over 60 countries. For more information or a review copy, contact Eric Engelmann or Steve Heineman.

EMS Professional Shareware

4505 Buckhurst Ct. Olney, MD 20832-1830 USA

(301) 924-3594,  fax: (301) 963-2708


Style Guide for Paradox 4.0 Applic Environment
Grass Valley Technologies announces release of the:

Style Guide for Paradox 4.0

Borland International Conference - San Diego, CA - May 16, 1993 Grass Valley Technologies, Inc. announced the Style Guide for Paradox 4.0, an application environment for Paradox 4.0. The Style Guide provides an application manager that directs task-switching between application modules. The application environment includes several modules that provide built-in capabilities, including speedbar, toolbox, calendar, clock and calculator.

All of this is possible because the Style Guide uses a standard event handler that knows how to deal with the application environment. The standard event handler uses a dynarray-based rule set to provide default behavior for Paradox 4.0 Wait sessions and dialog boxes. Behavior is customized by modifying the rules, which is done by assigning values to a wide range of pre-defined dynarray elements.

A new approach for PAL applications:

Think of a pulldown menu as a file cabinet. End users select items from the pulldown menu (the "file cabinet") and place them on the desktop. Each item is represented by a Paradox 4.0 window, which can be positioned to set up the environment they want. Users switch from task to task by clicking on a new window. When they finish with an item, they file it by closing the window; when they need something new, they use the pulldown menu to put it on the desktop. When a window is selected, its previous state is automatically restored.

Applications are built from simple, single table or multi table forms, but offer advanced functionality.

The Style Guide includes complete source code and a wide range of utilities you will want to include in other applications. These utilities show how easy it is to write modular code.

An alternative to menu-driven applications:

"Many PAL programmers are still writing applications the same way they did in Paradox 3.5," said company president, Gary Bement. "Even the Paradox 4.0 application generator uses the old, menu-driven approach, where you put a form on the desktop, work with it, then close it before you can do something else. We've developed a consistent set of application guidelines that move you to a whole new realm of functionality."

"The interface enhancements we've made in Paradox 4.0, combined with the Style Guide's window-focused approach to design, will help Paradox developers create a new generation of easy-to-use applications," said Daniel Klaussen, Paradox DOS product manager for Borland International.

Pricing and availability:

A single developer license retails for $149.95, and includes rights to distribute royalty-free compiled applications. A LAN version for use by an unlimited number of developers on a single server sells for $395.

A special introductory price was announced at the conference: The single developer pricing is reduced to $99.95 until July 31, 1995.

The company:

Grass Valley Technologies, Inc., founded in 1990, specializes in development and marketing of Paradox add-ons. This conference represents its fourth consecutive appearance at the annual Paradox conference.

Grass Valley Technologies Inc

903 Pacific Ave, Suite 305, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

800-336-8560,  fax 408-426-6152


PARADOX 4.0 ACCESS TO MAINFRAME DATA

Terrabyte Database Warehouse Announced at Borland Conference

NEW YORK, NY -- May 16, 1993 -- The Irons Group, Inc. today announced that it plans to introduce enhanced versions of its Query 3480 and Query 9-Track products for accessing mainframe data from Borland International's, Paradox 4.0 relational database management system. These products enable Paradox users and developers to have seamless access to mainframe and minicomputer data files stored on magnetic tape and cartridge. Both products utilize the industry standard Query By Example (QBE) features available in Paradox 4.0. The enhanced Paradox 4.0 products will be released during May, 1993. Paradox for Windows versions are also planned for release later in 1993.

"We are working closely with Storage Technology to deliver unique tools connecting Paradox users to their corporate data quickly and easily," said James Davidson, president of The Irons Group. "Our customers can perform multi-table queries matching their Paradox databases against mainframe files of virtually any size using standard Paradox queries. This has opened up a whole new range of applications that were previously thought to be impossible or impractical on PCs. The data warehouse we plan to deliver later in 1993 will enable automated access to hundreds of 3480 cartridges storing over two hundred gigabytes of data in its base configuration, with a capacity to expand to over a terrabyte as needed."

"With the continued move toward downsizing and distributed data applications, our tools for the rapid population of PC databases and database servers become ever more important," said Davidson. "We have customers working with Paradox 4.0 in network and client server environments accessing files that are hundreds of megabytes or even tens of gigabytes in size. Using standard Paradox query tools they are able to populate their tables with exactly the data they need."

With over 90% of the world's data on mainframe and minicomputer systems, it is critical for users to have access to corporate data from host systems. Query 3480 and Query 9-Track are now in use at companies such as AT&T, Arthur Anderson, Baxter Healthcare, Dun & Bradstreet, Honeywell, Kidder Peabody & Co., Metropolitan Life, NationsBank, Prudential, Security Pacific and Transamerica.

The Irons Group, Inc. develops and markets, worldwide, database connectivity products that enable microcomputer database users to bridge the gap to mainframe and minicomputer data without the time and expense of outsourcing and programming. Downsizing and database migration services are also offered. Corporate headquarters is in New York, NY.

The Irons Group, Inc.

19 West 21 Street, 7 Floor, New York, New York 10010

(212) 645-4737,    Fax (212) 645-6804


Expanded Shared Logic Paradox Training
SHARED LOGIC LAUNCHES EXPANDED PARADOX TRAINING AND CONSULTING SERVICES

SAN DIEGO, California -- May 16, 1993 -- Shared Logic, Inc. today announced an expanded program of training and consulting services designed for both new and experienced users of Borland's Paradox family of relational database products.

Shared Logic, Inc. offers The Paradox Users Workshops, a series of professional workshops focusing on Paradox for Windows, Borland's premiere Windows database and Paradox 4.0, Borland's DOS relational database management system. Workshops are offered both as private on-site classes and as public seminars. The new Paradox for Windows workshops provide a quick way for both novices and experienced users to take advantage of the many powerful features available in Borland's Paradox products.

Paradox for Windows redefines the standard for relational database technology. By leveraging on the traditional strengths of Paradox, employing object-oriented methodologies, and using the Windows graphical user interface to its fullest, Paradox for Windows brings a whole new level of capability to PC data management. Paradox for Windows introduces innovative concepts like Object Inspectors, a SpeedBar and Experts, designed to make the job of managing data quick and easy.

Paradox 4.0 sets new standards for DOS-based relational database management systems. With a windows-like user interface, tremendous power and performance gains, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL, Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users. It includes the industry-standard Query By Example (QBE) for fast interactive database querying. Paradox can also store and retrieve Binary Large Objects (BLObs) in memo fields. BLObs can contain any type of binary data including graphics, sound, and multimedia files.

Consulting and application development services have also been expanded to include Paradox for Windows. Shared Logic uses Paradox and C++ to develop turnkey applications for clients in a wide variety of industries including health care, banking, manufacturing and education. Shared Logic has also performed consulting for companies such as Price Waterhouse, Bank of America, Loral Aerospace and Pacific Mutual Insurance.

"Our programmers understand the technical and business requirements needed for today's successful database solutions," said Tim Colling, chairman of Shared Logic. "With over 7 years of experience in training, consulting and application development, our clients rely on us to provide proven dependable service."

"Shared Logic is one of the best sources for Paradox and C++ consulting, programming and training services," said Steven P. Kresco, systems engineer manager for Borland International.

"Shared Logic is an important resource to our Paradox customers in the Southern California area," said Vince Casarez, Paradox for Windows product manager for Borland International.

Shared Logic, Inc., founded in 1986 and based in Southern California, provides consulting and programming services for corporations throughout the United States and abroad. Shared Logic is a Borland Authorized Training Center offering both DOS and Windows Paradox training.

Shared Logic

10919 Technology Place, Ste A, San Diego, CA 92127

619-487-4545,  fax 619-487-4973


Fieldworks Cleanup & Purge Paradox Add-Ins
FIELDWORKS ANNOUNCES SHIPMENT OF CLEANUP 4.0 & PURGE 4.0 ADD-INS FOR BORLAND'S PARADOX

MORENO VALLEY, CA, May 16, 1993 -- FieldWorks Development Company today announced the immediate availability of Cleanup 4.0 and Purge 4.0, add-ins for Borland's Paradox relational database. Cleanup 4.0 provides Paradox users with over 40 name, address and case formatting options that enhance existing records or speed data entry. Purge 4.0 provides duplicate record flagging, merging, and deletion using intelligent filters and soundex techniques for near-match duplicate checking.

"Purge 4.0 provides users with unparalleled power to maintain and update large databases. By taking maximum advantage of Paradox 4.0's windows-like interface, Purge 4.0 makes the task of comparing and editing flagged records easier than ever," said David L. Terrie, president of FieldWorks Development Company. "Cleanup 4.0 and Purge 4.0 provide users with powerful tools for more effective database marketing."

Paradox 4.0 sets new standards for DOS-based relational database management systems. With a windows-like user interface, tremendous power and performance gains, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL, Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users. It includes the industry-standard Query By Example (QBE) for fast interactive database querying.

Cleanup 4.0 More Flexible Than Ever

Cleanup 4.0 features dialog box-based option selection for easy creation and modification of "formats". Options include gender look up for first names, full name parsing and punctuation, address abbreviation expansion or standardization, and case formatting in field-specific proper case. These formats automatically enhance existing or new records in the tables they work on. New features include customized default field names and widths, more flexible name enhancement and parsing options, a new CityStZip field type, and selection of custom data entry forms. In addition, all lookup tables are easily customized to meet particular needs.

Moreover, developers may create applications that incorporate both formats and flag generation schemes by making a few simple calls to the Cleanup 4.0 or Purge 4.0 libraries. An Unlimited Distribution License enables developers to distribute custom applications at a very low cost.

Purge 4.0 Features New Master Table Option

Purge 4.0 features dialog box-based option selection for easy creation and modification of duplicate checking "schemes". Split-screen browsing makes comparing and merging flagged records easier than ever. In addition, a powerful new "Master-Update" option builds keys into "Master" tables.

These Master table keys comprise two fields: a flag string created by pre-selected filtering options, and a unique tie-breaking digit. This dual-key feature eliminates key violations for duplicate flags while still enabling fast queries for possible duplicates. Because only "Update" tables require key generation, users can easily and speedily update very large databases.

When Purge 4.0 has generated the Master table's key, options are available for flagging duplicates within the Master table itself or between the Master table and an Update table. When Update table records are flagged and queried against a Master table for possible duplicates, Purge 4.0 generates three tables: one with flagged Master table records, a second with flagged Update table records, and a third with unflagged Update table records. In addition, a new streamlined editing facility for batch updates enables record insertion or replacement, and field value replacement, addition or subtraction, all with a single click of the mouse. Flagged records may update Master table records, be added to the Master table, or be subtracted from the Master table.

Further, a new Data Entry mode supports multi-table forms for maintaining Master tables with linked detail tables in one-to-one and one-to-many data models. Master table records may be browsed freely. Users may enter new records, generate their flags, and post them when ready.

After generating a new record's flag, users can quickly test for Master table records with the same flags. As with editing flagged batch update records, users may replace Master table records with Update records. Users may replace Master fields with Update fields, and add or subtract Update field values from Master field values, all with a single click of the mouse. Users can even opt to use Cleanup 4.0 formats to speed data entry if a format exists for the Master table.

Both the original peer-to-peer option, which analyzes up to 12 tables of any structure as a group, and the new master-update option, take full advantage of Paradox 4.0's improved query engine to speed analysis of large tables.

"With FieldWorks Cleanup 4.0 and Purge 4.0 users gain maximum impact from their Paradox 4.0 generated mailing lists," said Daniel Klaussen, Paradox product manager for Borland. "Cleanup 4.0 and Purge 4.0 give users the tools to insure accurate mailings, eliminating duplicates and providing consistent address information, including the use of proper titles, expanded abbreviations, and more."

Pricing and Availability

Cleanup 4.0, available from FieldWorks, has a suggested retail price of $299.95. Purge 4.0, also available from FieldWorks, has a suggested retail price of $149.95. Purchased together, the two products have a suggested retail price of for $379.95. The FieldWorks Unlimited Distribution License, which covers distribution of custom applications incorporating both Cleanup 4.0 and Purge 4.0 functions, is available separately for $499.95. When Cleanup 4.0, Purge 4.0 and the Unlimited Distribution License are purchased at the same time, the bundle's suggested retail price is $679.95. All suggested retail prices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada.

Paradox 4.0, available from Borland, has a suggested retail price of $795. The Paradox 4.0 LAN Pack, which adds one additional user to the network, retails for $395. Registered owners of Paradox (version 2.0 or higher) can upgrade for $199.95. All suggested retail prices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada.

Founded in 1986, FieldWorks Development Company provides the FieldWorks family of mailing list management add-ins for Paradox, as well as custom application development, and list processing services for Paradox users.

FieldWorks Development Company

28401 Championship Dr, Moreno Valley, CA 92555

909-242-4690


ObjectPAL Application Development Seminars
Now Available

ObjectPAL Application Development Seminars

Addison, IL -- May 16, 1993 -- Softbite International today announced the offering of ObjectPAL Application Development, 4-day. This seminar will be offered on a continuous basis throughout the U.S, Canada, Europe and Australia.

ObjectPAL Application Development is a 4-day seminar geared toward those who are developing, or will be developing applications in Paradox for Windows. Emphasis is placed on those topics necessary to build complete systems.

Paradox for Windows redefines the standard for relational database technology. By leveraging on the traditional strengths of Paradox, employing object-oriented methodologies, and using the Windows graphical user interface to its fullest, Paradox for Windows brings a whole new level of capability to PC data management. Paradox for Windows introduces innovative concepts like Object Inspectors, a SpeedBar and Experts, designed to make the job of managing data quick and easy.

"Our seminars are designed to reduce the learning curve and make developers productive with Paradox for Windows as quickly as possible," said Kevin Smith, partner at Softbite International. "Our Paradox 4.0 and Paradox for Windows seminars have been successful because we take a practical approach to the topics we teach. We are all developers who are working on real-world Paradox for Windows applications and we incorporate the solving of real-world problems into our seminars."

Seminar topics include the application environment, event handling, ObjectPAL methods and language elements, debugging, built-in methods and coding mouse support.

Pricing for the seminar is $595 for the first two days (Introduction to ObjectPAL?, or $1095 for all four days (Introduction and Advanced ObJectPAL). All sample code and tables will be included on the course diskette.

More information can be obtained about the seminar by calling (708) 833-0006.

Softbite International is a database training and consulting firm based in Addison, Illinois.

Softbite International

33 N. Addison Rd, Suite 206

PO Box 1401

Addison, IL 60101-8401

708-833-0006,   fax 708-833-0584


Softbite Int'l Intros Softbite Labs
Softbite International Introduces Softbite Labs

Addison, IL -- May 16, 1993 -- Softbite International today announced the opening of Softbite Labs, an innovative approach to application development and training in Paradox for Windows and Paradox for DOS.

"The Softbite Labs program provides developers with an avenue to jump-start a project, while keeping them aimed in the right direction," said Kevin Smith, partner at Softbite International. "Our goal is to turn those crucial first days of a project into a productive period, instead of the typical fumbling to get started' phase. Paradox for Windows and Paradox for DOS are excellent platforms for developing systems, and a Softbite Labs session can significantly add to the quality of the finished application."

A typical Softbite Labs session consists of developers coming to the Softbite facility, and spending a few days with the Softbite consulting staff. Tasks performed during the Softbite Labs session vary depending on the project, but might include design refinement, technical tutoring, building of generic routines or incorporation of multi-user features. Code from systems developed by Softbite consultants will be available for incorporation into the system.

"Softbite Labs will bring innovative support and training to Paradox 4.0 and Paradox for Windows users worldwide," said Vince Casarez, Paradox for Windows product manager for Borland International. "We're pleased they've chosen to focus this program on Borland products."

Pricing of a Softbite Labs session is based on a per diem rate, and varies with each clients' needs. More information is available by contacting Softbite at (708) 833-0006.

Softbite International is a database training and consulting firm based in Addison, Illinois.

Softbite International

33 N. Addison Rd, Suite 206

PO Box 1401

Addison, IL 60101-8401

708-833-0006,   fax 708-833-0584


WestLake Imager 2.0 for Paradox & dBASE
20/20 Announces WestLake Imager 2.0 for Borland's Paradox and dBASE

San Diego, CA -- May 16, 1993 -- 20/20 Software, Inc. today announced first shipment of version 2.0 of the WestLake Imager for Paradox and dBASE and the release of 5 and 25-user network versions. The WestLake Imager enables users of Borland's Paradox and dBASE database software to add pictures to their database. Version 2.0 of the WestLake Imager adds multi-level zoom and pan capabilities, supports display of 256 colors in both zoomed and unzoomed mode, utilizes extended and expanded memory to allow display and printing of very large graphics, enhances and automates printer control, and adds support for compressed TIFF graphic file formats.

Users simply add a field containing the file name of an associated PCX, TIFF, CGM or PIC file to each record in their database. The WestLake Imager then enables the database to display and print the record with the associated picture. Pictures can be scaled to any size and positioned as specified by the user. Text and graphics are displayed together on the screen. Both dot matrix printers and laser printers are supported.

Paradox 4.0 sets new standards for DOS-based relational database management systems. With a windows-like user interface, tremendous power and performance gains, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL, Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users. It includes the industry-standard Query By Example (QBE) for fast interactive database querying. Paradox can also store and retrieve Binary Large Objects (BLObs) in memo fields. BLObs can contain any type of binary data including graphics, sound and multimedia files.

"The WestLake Imager adds functionality to Paradox's support for BLObs that contain graphics," said Daniel Klaussen, Paradox DOS product manager for Borland International. "It is a great tool for Paradox users -- and dBASE users -- building graphics-intensive applications."

Pricing and Availability

Owners of the current version of the WestLake Imager may upgrade at no charge. The WestLake Imager is available now and is priced at $249. A developers version (with an unlimited distribution license) is $399. Network licenses for 5 and 25 users are $799 and $2499.

Paradox 4.0, available from Borland, has a suggested retail price of $795. The Paradox 4.0 LAN Pack, which adds one additional user to the network, retails for $395. Registered owners of Paradox (version 2.0 and higher) can upgrade for $199.95. All suggested retail prices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada.

20/20 Software is a developer and distributor of database enhancement products including: the Nimbus Report Writer for Paradox, PC-Install (an installation program for database developers) and DocIt (a Paradox documenter).

20/20 Software Inc

8196 SW Hall Blvd, Suite 200, Beaverton, OR 97005

503-520-0504,  fax 503-520-9118


Nimbus Report Writer 2.0 for Paradox 4.0
20/20 Announces Nimbus Report Writer 2.0 for Borland's Paradox 4.0

San Diego, CA -- May 16, 1993 -- 20/20 Software, Inc. today announced first shipment of version 2.0 of the Nimbus Report Writer for Paradox and the release of 5- and 25-user network versions. Version 2.0 of the Report Writer supports "dynamic graphics" (printing pictures associated with each record), enables the single-user version to be used as a l-user network pack, supports printing reports to ASCII or PostScript files, adds several PAL functions, reduces runtime memory requirements to allow full use of Paradox 4.0, and many other improvements are included.

The Nimbus Report Writer was developed specifically to work with Borland International's Paradox database software and offers users a WYSIWYG user interface, variety of fonts, drawing tools, and the ability to place graphics in reports. It also offers enhanced database features such as conditional fields, embedded query criteria, partial key linking, and table scan.

Paradox 4.0 sets new standards for DOS-based relational database management systems. With a windows-like user interface, tremendous power and performance gains, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL, Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users. It includes the industry-standard Query By Example (QBE) for fast interactive database querying. Paradox can also store and retrieve Binary Large Objects (BLObs) in memo fields. BLObs can contain any type of binary data including graphics, sound and multimedia files.

"Paradox users looking to expand their reporting capabilities will find Nimbus Report Writer a very useful tool," said Daniel Klaussen, Paradox DOS product manager for Borland International. "The new release of Nimbus is a prime example of continued growth in the Paradox add-on market."

Pricing and Availability

The single user version is priced at $249 with the developer version (with runtime) at $399. Owners of the current version of Nimbus may upgrade for $89 or $129. Anyone who purchased the Nimbus Report Writer or an upgrade after January 1, 1993 can upgrade at no charge. Existing Report Writer users will receive a full purchase price credit for their single-user version when they upgrade to a network pack. Network licenses for 5 and 25 users are $799 and $2499.

Paradox 4.0, available from Borland, has a suggested retail price of $795. The Paradox 4.0 LAN Pack, which adds one additional user to the network, retails for $395. Registered owners of Paradox (version 2.0 and higher) can upgrade for $199.95. All suggested retail prices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada.

20/20 Software is a developer and distributor of database enhancement products including: the WestLake Imager (brings pictures into Paradox and dBASE), PC-Install (an installation program for database developers) and DocIt (a Paradox documenter).

20/20 Software Inc

8196 SW Hall Blvd, Suite 200, Beaverton, OR 97005

503-520-0504,  fax 503-520-9118


d'Art Parados for Win. Documenter & Decompiler
Tipton Cole + Co. Introduces d'Art, a Documenter and Decompiler for Paradox for Windows

AUSTIN -- May 16, 1993 -- Tipton Cole + Co. today announced d'Art, a form documenter and decompiler for Borland's Paradox for Windows. d'Art is the latest product in Tipton Cole + Co's line of Paradox documentation tools, which also includes the pDOCS products, Rdoc, Fdoc, and Tdoc.

Paradox for Windows (PW) provides direct access to property lists via its Object Inspector. d'Art builds on that by providing a direct mechanism for wholesale inspection and alteration of objects and their properties. d'Art produces an ASCII text file that is a complete description of a PW form. The description is a hierarchical listing of all objects in a form showing containership. Optional listings include object properties, the form's data model, and objectPAL source code for the methods attached to each object. d'Art also documents PW reports.

"d'Art brings light to the dark side of the visual programming paradigm," says Tipton Cole, president of Tipton Cole + Co. "Readable external documentation is a requirement for any serious application or any serious application developer. With the documentation created by d'Art, programmers can plug into the traditional text-based tools for application development and control."

"We're pleased Tipton Cole + Co has added a Paradox for Windows tool to its line of Paradox documentation tools," said Vince Casarez, Paradox for Windows product manager for Borland International. "Like all our third party tool providers, Tipton Cole + Co serves as an important resource to Paradox developers."

The development of a matching compiler is already underway at Tipton Cole + Co. The compiler will be able to reconstruct forms from the documentation produced by d'Art.

Pricing and Availability

d'Art retails for $99 and is available by mail.

Tipton Cole + Co.

Tipton Cole + Co, founded in 1983 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, specializes in the development of commercial applications and programmer tools. TC+C also does technical and management consulting for a variety of businesses.

Tipton Cole + Company

3006 Bee Cave Rd, Suite D-200, Austin, TX 78746

512-329-0060


CONVERT4 Available for Paradox 4.0
CONVERT4 NOW AVAILABLE FOR BORLAND'S PARADOX 4.0

Simplifies Application Upgrades to Paradox 4

SAN DIEGO, CA -- May 17, 1993 -- FMS, Inc. (Financial Modeling Specialists, Inc.) announced at the Borland International Conference that Convert4 is shipping. Convert4 is available from FMS and is specifically designed for Borland's Paradox PC relational database.

Convert4 quickly upgrades tables from previous versions of Paradox to Paradox 4.0. Paradox 4 offers a wide range of new features such as memo fields, case-insensitive secondary indexes, and new validity settings. To take advantage of these features, Paradox tables need to be converted to the new Paradox 4 file format. While Paradox allows the conversion of one table at a time, Convert4 automates this process by upgrading many tables in one pass. An unlimited number of tables from an unlimited number of directories can be selected and converted at once. Convert4 runs from within Paradox and is entirely menu driven.

As part of the conversion process, Convert4 also upgrades all secondary indexes to the new case-insensitive and maintained format, which improves sorting and queries. Convert4 also checks for errors that can damage tables. Multi-table forms and reports and even data can be destroyed if conversion is performed improperly. Convert4 copies each table, documents its family (forms, reports, validity settings, etc.), converts it to Paradox 4, verifies all the family objects, then replaces the original. Any errors detected are documented and the original table is not modified. A summary of tables converted and errors is presented upon completion.

Paradox 4.0, a major upgrade to Borland's critically acclaimed PC-based relational database, incorporates tremendous speed and power gains, a windows-like user interface, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL. Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users from end users to applications developers.

"Convert4 simplifies the process of upgrading existing applications to Paradox 4" said Luke Chung, President of FMS. "When we first tried to upgrade such applications, we destroyed many multi-table forms and reports. With Convert4 the conversion process is a snap."

Pricing and Availability

Convert4 is available immediately from FMS, Inc. and may be purchased in either a single user version or a network version. The single user version is network compatible and sells for $145. The network five-pack which lets five simultaneous users access ParaStat and includes five user manuals sells for $375.

Paradox 4.0, available from Borland, has a suggested retail price of $795. The Paradox 4.0 LAN Pack, which adds one additional user to the network, retails for $395. Registered owners of

Paradox (version 2.0 and higher) can upgrade for $199.95. All suggested retail prices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada.

FMS, Inc. is a software consulting firm specializing in Paradox system development. FMS was one of the first companies to offer Paradox add-on products and continues to introduce leadingedge Paradox add-on products today. In addition to Convert4, FMS also offers ParaDate (calendar program), ParaStat (statistics program), ParaTrak (script documentation), and ParaView (table, form and report documentation). All products support Paradox 4.0.

FMS Inc

8027 Leesburg Pike, Suite 410, Vienna, VA 22182

703-356-4700,   fax 703-448-3861


Cognitronix Code Manager v2.1 for Windows
Cognitronix Ships Code Manager v2.1 for Windows

San Diego, CA -- May 16, 1993 -- Cognitronix today announced the immediate availability of Code Manager v2.1 for Windows. Code Manager is a ZIP and DOS file management and text search utility for Microsoft Windows 3.x, designed specifically for the Windows application developer's needs.

Code Manager manages DOS and ZIP compressed files across multiple disks based upon the file's name, directory, size, date, file attributes, or text contents. Programmable function keys allow the user to instantly configure Code Manager to search or backup files in specific directories, by multiple file specifications; including true wild cards and exclusions. Files may be searched for exact text string matches, fuzzy matches, or regular expressions, even in ZIP compressed files! Optional Boolean proximity searching, filters the text found, based on the existence of nearby text strings. Once found, the user may backup, launch, ZIP compress, unZIP, copy, move, delete, or view the files or text, either with the included multi-windowing, Code Editor, or any Windows hosted viewer/editor, including Borland's integrated development environments.

"Windows application developers have an enormous amount of code to manage," said Robert Frantz, president of Cognitronix. "Code Manager increases their productivity by quickly locating code by function and variable names, and showing it to the developer. This facilitates understanding of the code, and promotes it's re-use in a program. The backup capability is so quick and easy to use, valuable work need never be lost."

"We're pleased that Code Manager is available to Paradox for Windows developers", said Vince Casarez, Paradox for Windows product manager for Borland International. "Code Manager is a prime example of the many valuable third party utilities available to our customers. "

Included with Code Manager, is Free Launch, an application launching replacement for the Task Manager; File Tree, a graphical directory tree viewer and navigator; and Code Editor. Code Editor edits multiple files at once, the size of which are limited only by available disk space. It works with Code Manager, to quickly open selected files, scroll to, and high-light text which was found in the search.

Code Manager also helps with application documentation and viewing ZIP files. It includes a macro that enables the user to launch Code Manager from the Word for Windows menu, automatically searching for text which was high-lighted. The documents which are found may be opened by double-clicking on them or dragging and dropping them on Word for Windows. Double-clicking on a ZIP file in the File Manager, launches Code Manager, configured to search the ZIP file.

The price of Code Manager v2.1, with Code Editor, Free Launch, File Tree and an illustrated manual, is $99 plus $4.00 S&H. Site licenses are available. Code Manager is covered by a 60 day money back guarantee and is available immediately, direct from Cognitronix at 12322 Poway Rd, Suite 120, Poway, CA 92064, or call 619-549-8955.

Cognitronix is a privately held software and hardware development company, established in 1986.


Parastat 2.0 Available for Paradox 4.0
PARASTAT 2.0 NOW AVAILABLE FOR BORLAND'S PARADOX 4.0

New Version Enhances Statistical Analysis of Paradox Data

SAN DIEGO, CA -- May 17, 1993 -- FMS, Inc. (Financial Modeling Specialists, Inc.) announced at the Borland International Conference that ParaStat 2.0, a major upgrade to the popular Paradox add-on statistics program, is shipping. ParaStat is available from FMS and is specifically designed for Borland's Paradox PC relational database.

ParaStat performs statistical analysis on data stored in Paradox tables. Features include field analysis such as standard deviation, variance, percentiles, frequency distribution, and confidence intervals. Group analysis including two sample t-Test and ANOVA, field comparison for correlation, R-Square, covariance and paired t-Test, regressions (simple, multiple and polynomial), cross-tabulation with Chi-Square, and Probability evaluation of test values are also featured in ParaStat 2.0.

Paradox 4.0, a major update to Borland's critically acclaimed PC-based relational database, incorporates tremendous speed and power gains, a windows-like user interface, enhanced network performance and expanded Paradox Application Language, PAL. Paradox is ideal for a wide range of users from end users to applications developers.

PAL is a powerful, high level procedural language that lets users create sophisticated applications quickly. New features let users build custom applications that incorporate mouse control, pull-down and pop-up menus, dialog boxes with push buttons, check boxes, radio buttons and pick lists.

ParaStat runs from within Paradox and uses Turbo Pascal and the Paradox Engine to perform the intensive statistical analysis. ParaStat is entirely menu driven with point and choose options. Users select tables and fields similar to a Paradox query. All results are returned in Paradox tables just like the ANSWER table of a query. This gives Paradox users full control over the results, including the ability to sort and query for specific data, and merge data into reports or graphs. PAL programmers can even add ParaStat features within their applications. ParaStat provides full support for Paradox 4.0, and supports Paradox versions 3.0 and 3.5.

"ParaStat 2.0 extends Paradox's already powerful query features," said Daniel Klaussen, Paradox product manager for Borland. "It is extremely valuable to those needing to further analyze their Paradox data."

ParaStat 2.0 can now analyze up to 50 fields simultaneously. Performance has been greatly enhanced by using Paradox Engine, 3.0. ParaStat 2.0 also supports Paradox 4.0's standard mode interface with pulldown menus, dialog boxes, speedbars, scrollbars and full mouse support. A new user manual is also available.

"ParaStat 2.0 incorporates features and enhancements requested by our users," said Luke Chung, president of FMS. "ParaStat 2.0's improved speed and ability to analyze more data at once, makes it the most powerful data analysis tool available for Paradox. With full support of Paradox 4.0's new user interface, ParaStat is easier than ever to use."

Pricing and Availability

ParaStat is available immediately from FMS, Inc. and may be purchased in either a single user version or a network version. The single user version is network compatible and sells for $245. The network five-pack which lets five simultaneous users access ParaStat and includes five user manuals sells for $595. Owners of previous versions of ParaStat may upgrade for $99.

Paradox 4.0, available from Borland, has a suggested retail price of $795. The Paradox 4.0 LAN Pack, which adds one additional user to the network, retails for $395. Registered owners of Paradox (version 2.0 and higher) can upgrade for $199.95. All suggested retail prices are in U.S. dollars and apply to the United States and Canada.

FMS, Inc. is a software consulting firm specializing in Paradox system development. FMS was one of the first companies to offer Paradox add-on products and continues to introduce leadingedge Paradox add-on products today. In addition to ParaStat, FMS also offers Convert4 (Paradox 4 table conversion program), ParaDate (calendar program). ParaTrak (script documentation), and ParaView (table, form and report documentation). All products support Paradox 4.0.

FMS Inc

8027 Leesburg Pike, Suite 410, Vienna, VA 22182

703-356-4700,   fax 703-448-3861


100,000 FREE Copies of Firts Impulse V1.0
100,000 Copies Of First Impulse! v1.0

-Contact Management Software-

To Be Given Away FREE

Boston, MA, July 26, 1993 -- As a special introductory promotion, 100,000 copies of First Impulse!, a contact management software package, are being shipped out for free. The product is a powerful tool designed to help sales and marketing professionals increase their profits by becoming more productive and more efficient. First Impulse! helps build customer relationships through database marketing by automating direct mail, telemarketing and inbound/outbound sales efforts.

Vik Kachoria, president of International Solutions, Inc., said "unlike word processors and spreadsheets, there are many individuals who are simply not aware of the power and advantages of contact management software tools. In addition, there are many professionals who would use the software but don't need all of the bells and whistles of a full-blown contact management product". Thus the product and its promotion were developed by the company to accommodate both needs.

"The 100,000 FREE copies promotion is designed to help increase awareness of this category of software products". After the 100,000 copies have been distributed, the product will be available in stores for a list price of $49.95. Upgrades to other versions in the product family are available. To get your copy of First Impulse!, contact the developer, International Solutions, Inc., at (617) 575-0290. There is a $12 charge to cover the costs of shipping and handling.

First Impulse! can handle an unlimited number of contacts and an unlimited number of databases to separate clients for different projects. The product features include: built-in word processor, unlimited notes per client, scheduler, logbook, 1000 user-definable fields, report generator, lookup tables, mail-merge, envelope printing, help screens, notepads and a popup calculator. The program requires MS-DOS version 3.3 or higher, a minimum of 640k and a hard disk drive.

First Impulse! fulfills a growing demand by professionals for an efficient and effective way of managing information on their clients. These professionals include executives, managers, sales representatives, lawyers, accountants, consultants, head-hunters, insurance agents and real estate brokers from government, large corporations and home-based businesses.

They recognize the fact that to succeed in today's competitive and global marketplace they must meet the demand for personalized, timely and consistent customer service.

With First Impulse! the user can quickly enter client information, search for a contact or with a press of a few keys print out a personalized letter. But to really help the professional take full advantage of the information, the program provides 'ticklers' to remind the user what to do and a 'logbook' to document what has been done.

Because the program is highly-customizable, it can be adjusted to suit the needs of just about any user. For instance, a real-estate broker would want to track the location, price-range and options a buyer is interested in. When a property become available, the broker could start a query to produce a short-list of potential buyers who might be interested in the home. An insurance agent, on the other hand, would want to enter information on policy number, expiration, coverage, premiums, etc. In this case, a query to list clients whose policy is coming up for renewal could easily be generated.

Other products in the Impulse! family include:

Impulse! Professional        SRP $99 per Simultaneous User

First Impulse! plus fax capability, caller-id, statistics/demographics, expense tracking, currency conversion, timezone sensitivity, spell checking, duplicate-checking, import/export, and security options.

Impulse! Sales                SRP $199 per Simultaneous User

Impulse! Professional plus order entry, product pricing, quantity breaks, inventory control, client sales history, product sales history, billing, accounts receivable, commissions.

Impulse! Help Desk            SRP $199 per Simultaneous User

Impulse! Professional plus client configuration, history, error tracking, symptoms, descriptions and resolutions. Specifically designed for the tech support specialist at a computer software hardware of other type of company who needs to assist users with errors and the problems they encounter.

Impulse! Survey               SRP $199 per Simultaneous User

Impulse! Professional plus the ability to design and create a market research survey, enter survey responses, generate statistical analysis.

Impulse! MatchMaker           SRP $199 per Simultaneous User

Impulse! Professional specially customized for job placement officers, employment agencies, and social service departments.

International Solutions Inc

52 Tolman St, Canton, MA 02021

617-575-0290,   fax 617-575-0735


Stalker Upgrades PortShare Productss for Mac
Stalker Software GmbH

STALKER UPGRADES PORTSHARE PRODUCTS FOR MACINTOSH

CONCORD, CA---July 5, 1993---Stalker Software GmbH., with development labs  located in Moscow, Russia, and U.S. sales and support offices in Campbell,  CA, has announced new versions of its PortShare Lite and PortShare Pro  networking software for the Macintosh. The PortShare products enable users to  share expensive modems, printers, plotters, and other serial devices on an  AppleTalk localarea networks.

PortShare Lite v.2.0 adds support for Apple Remote Access (ARA)  software and retails at $49. PortShare Pro v.2.0, with an advanced feature  set, retails at $149, and adds a Statistics Panel that logs real-time, serial- port throughput and network transmission errors. Stalker products are  available direct to end users from Global Way, an authorized U.S. reseller  based in Campbell, CA. Now building relationships with new channel partners,  Stalker products are also available to qualified distributors, resellers, and  OEM licensers through WORLDVIEW.

Stalker's PortShare products are compatible with System 7 and Apples  Communications Toolbox (CTB), and support connections across multiple  AppleTalk zones at rates up to 57.6 Kbps depending on network media and  traffic. As an interrupt-driven extension controlled from within the Chooser,  PortShare runs in the background letting users share devices providing  maximum performance no matter what other applications are running on the  Macintosh. Including password protection for each shared port, PortShare  arbitrates concurrent requests to the same port, indicates network activity,  and logs user activities for any or all shared ports. With PortShare  installed, network administrators can designate ports and peripherals  available for sharing, and lets users access a shared port on some other  computer.

PortShare Lite, which lets each user make their built-in serial port  usable by other Macintosh computers on a network, now includes full support  for ARA allowing users to share the same port used for incoming ARA calls,  and to use ARA to call out and connect to a remote network through a shared  modem. In addition to its new Statistics Panel, PortShare Pros advanced  features allow users to employ both a MacUs built-in modem and printer ports  to access shared devices simultaneously. PortShare Pro also provides support  for ARA, and includes the ability to create virtual ports for applications  compatible with CTB, and the ability to redefine older applications and non- CTB-compatible tools so they can be used without having to be attached to the  external serial port. Additionally, PortShare Pro lets network administrators  assign group names to any number of shared devices connected to one or more  servers on a network.

Both PortShare products are available now, and include the software,  full documentation, access to U.S.-based fax/voice telephone support, and  offer a 30-day, unlimited warranty and money-back guarantee. Upgrades are  free to registered users with a minimal charge for shipping and handling.  Incorporated in Cologne Germany, Stalker's development team is located in  Moscow, Russia. Formed in 1991, the privately-held company is a leading  developer of innovative, system-level programming-based telephony, LAN, and  communications software for the Macintosh.

Stalker Software GmbH. can be reached at its Moscow Labs at: Moscow  State University, Leninskiye Gory, MGU, NIVC, Moscow, Russia; 7-095-939-3907  (voice), 7-095-938-2136 (fax); netprod@stalker.srcc.msu.su (Internet). For  end-user, retail sales or literature contact: Global Way, P.O. Box 1631,  Campbell, CA 95009-1631; 800-262-4722 (sales); 408-370-3170 (fax). Press  contact and OEM/channel sales contact: WORLDVIEW, 510-676-4733 (voice); 510- 676-3545 (fax).


Novell & NetSoft Partner on NS/Router Support
Novell and NetSoft Partner on NS/Router Support of NetWare for SAA. Andrew Signs Software Licensing Agreements for NetSoft's NS/Router.

LAGUNA HILLS, CA, July 26, 1993--NetSoft announced that it has signed a separate licensing agreement with Andrew Corporation for the new NS/Router software product which was introduced today in a separate announcement (see related news release). NetSoft also announced a partnership with Novell for the NS/Router's new support of NetWare for SAA.

"The availability of our new NS/Router and the Novell and Andrew relationships signify our emergence as a major player and standard-setter in the Windows-to-AS/400 connectivity market," said Zak Kong, NetSoft's CEO.

"The NS/Router supports Novell's highest performance LAN transport protocols," said Mr. Kong. "The NS/Router will provide Windows-based NetWare LAN users with unparalleled power, performance and ease-of-use when accessing AS/400 servers."

"Our customers have been asking for fast, easy, reliable, and secure access to their AS/400 applications from NetWare. With the new NS/Router support of NetWare for SAA, NetSoft has provided the first true Windows-based router for customers seeking to integrate Windows, NetWare, and the AS/400. Now a Windows user can easily access applications through NetWare for SAA using the NS/Router's open connectivity platform," said Bernard Harguindeguy, director of marketing for Novell's Interoperability Systems Group in Sunnyvale, CA.

"NetSoft is a very capable and important partner for NetWare for SAA and we are looking forward to working with them closely on the NS/Router support," Harguindeguy added.

ANDREW CORPORATION

Andrew Corporation will be integrating the NS/Router into their new TranScend 400 file transfer product, their 5250 Token Ring Elite connection, and future APPC-based products.

"Andrew is a leading supplier of connectivity solutions for PC-to-AS/400 applications," said Mr. Kong. "We are very pleased to be entering into this cooperative agreement with Andrew as it substantially increases the availability of our software to the AS/400 marketplace."

"Andrew Corporation's objective in integrating this new router is to minimize the hassles users are experiencing in accessing mission critical data," stated Rob Kerr, Andrew product line manager. "Communications links shouldn't be riddled with barriers. Our first AS/400 connectivity products allowed users to work with PC Support more easily. With the new NS/Router, we allow them to work around PC Support."

NetSoft (which changed its name from Network Software Associates, Inc. in April 1993) develops, markets and supports PC-to-mainframe and PC-to-midrange connectivity products for multiprotocol networking environments. The company is headquartered at 39 Argonaut, Laguna Hills, CA 92656. Phone: (714) 768-4013 or (800) 352-3270


New Walnut Creek Hobbes OS/2 CD-ROM Avail
A new edition of the Hobbes OS/2 CDROM is now available.  The disc contains the entire Hobbes OS/2 archive from ftp-os2.cdrom.com.  There is a total of 640 megabytes of stuff on this disc.  The files were downloaded from the archive in early June.

The disc contains thousands of programs, including utilities, games, development tools, device drivers, program updates, graphics, and documentation.  If you want to see what is on the Hobbes OS/2 CDROM, you can ftp the index and readme files from cdrom.com in the directory /cdrom/cdroms/hobbes.

The disc conforms to ISO-9660, which is the most common and generic format. It will work with almost any system.  The files are in a standard directory structure, so no special software is required.  An optional menu driven front end is provided.  BBS index files are included for many popular boards, including RBBS, PCBoard, Wildcat, Spitfire and Opus.

The price is $25.  S&H is $5 (per order, not per disc) for US/Can/Mex, and $10 for overseas.  If you live in California, please add sales tax.  You can send a check or money order, or you can order with Mastercard/Visa/AmEx.

Walnut Creek CDROM

1547 Palos Verdes, Suite 260

Walnut Creek, CA  94596

+1 800 786-9907, +1 510 674-0783, +1 510 674-0821 FAX

Internet: orders@cdrom.com

The disc is also available by subscription for $19.95 + S&H per quarter ($5 off the regular price).  If you want to subscribe, your credit card will be charged as each new edition is shipped.  New editions will come out every three or four months.  We need to have at least 100 people subscribe in order to make the subscription service successful.

The disc is available for FREE to anyone that has contributed any of their own work to the Hobbes archive.  Just email me your name, address, and the name of the program(s) that you wrote.  Overseas addresses are okay.

Additional CDROMs currently available:

 CICA Microsoft Windows CD-ROM -

     Windows PD/shareware from ftp.cica                $25

 Simtel MSDOS CDROM -

     MSDOS Sharware/PD from Simtel internet archive    $25

 GIFs Galore -

     Thousands of GIF images                           $25

 Aminet Amiga CDROM -

     shareware & PD swr collection for Amiga           $25

 Garbo MSDOS/MAC CD-ROM -

     shareware & PD for DOS and Mac                    $25

 Sprite CDROM -

     Sprite Research Operating System from UC Berkeley $25

 QRZ Ham Radio CDROM -

     Callsign database, shareware & PD, docs, etc.     $25

 Nova CDROM -

     NeXT Workstation software                         $40

 Source Code CD-ROM -

     Usenet source archives on CD-ROM                  $40

 X11R5 and GNU CD-ROM -

     X11R5 Window System, Gnu Src, SPARC binaries      $40

 Ada CDROM --

     Thousands of Ada documents and programs           $40

 Info-Mac CDROM --

     4000+ Mac programs from sumex-aim.stanford.edu    $40

 C User's Group Library CDROM -

     C source code                                     $50

 Libris Britannia -

     British shareware                                 $69

For a more detailed list, you can ftp the latest catalog from cdrom.com:/cdrom/catalog, or send email to info@cdrom.com.


New MKS LEX & YACC 3.2 Supports WinNT/DOS/OS2
New MKS LEX & YACC 3.2 Supports Windows NT, DOS, and OS/2

July 8, 1993 (Waterloo, ON) - Mortice Kern Systems today announced the new version of its compiler construction tools, MKS LEX & YACC 3.2. New features include a Windows NT release, the abillity to create code for Windows application development, and 32 bit DOS extended support.

MKS LEX & YACC is used in the development of software that analyzes and interprets input, such as an embedded command language in a configurable text editor. LEX builds a lexical analyzer, which takes a stream of input and breaks it up into tokens according to user-specified rules. YACC builds a parser, which takes a stream of tokens (such as provided by MKS LEX) and matches them against a grammar.  When a portion of the grammar is matched, source code embedded in the YACC grammar file is executed, giving action to the parsed commands.

Windows environment

The scanners and parsers generated by MKS LEX & YACC work very effectively in the Windows environment. The scanner and parser tables are now loadable resources which means more efficient use of memory under Windows. Developers can easily use the code from LEX & YACC to generate their own Windows applications. This version of MKS LEX & YACC includes several sample Windows applications, plus full on-line documentation describing how to create and manipulate these examples.

Windows .PIF files and icons are also included in this release, which enable MKS LEX & YACC 3.2 to be launched from the Windows environment.

32 bit DOS extended version

MKS LEX  & YACC 3.2 for DOS includes 32 bit protected mode versions of the LEX & YACC executables. They are compatible with all popular extended memory managers and work with Windows 3.1, 386MAX, and QEMM. LEX & YACC now have access to all available RAM resources when generating large parsers and scanners.

Maximum portability

MKS LEX & YACC brings two of the most popular language development tools available under UNIX systems to software developers working on DOS, OS/2, and Windows NT.  MKS LEX & YACC is fully compatible with lex and yacc on UNIX System V and BSD UNIX systems, and tracks the x/Open and POSIX.2 draft standards.  Grammars and generated code are portable between DOS, OS/2, Windows NT, and UNIX systems.

Language and compiler support

MKS LEX & YACC adds polish to programs by producing fast, compact, highly portable source code in any of three popular programming languages: C, the language most commonly used in the Unix environment; C++; and Borland Turbo Pascal.

For the OS/2 environment, MKS LEX & YACC has updated support for Borland, Microsoft, Watcom, Zortech, and IBM (C Set/2) compilers.

YACC Tracker

MKS LEX & YACC includes YACC Tracker - a unique diagnostic aid  which allows users to see inside their parser.  YACC Tracker speeds up parser development by letting the user  interactively trace what a grammar is doing for particular input, and by simplifying the task of locating problems in a grammar. YACC Tracker is not a debugger. Instead, YACC Tracker maintains  a full-screen display of the internal workings within an MKS YACC-generated parser.

Pricing and Availability

MKS LEX & YACC 3.2 will be shipping in July, 1993. It will be available for a suggested retail price of $299 and as an upgrade from any previous version for $99.

Mortice Kern Systems Inc

35 King Street North, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2J 2W9

phone 519/883-4369, 1-800-265-2797 (US and Canada) fax 519/884-8861


CHESSOP Chess Openings Database & Learning Aid
CHESSX SOFTWARE announces a "chess openings" database and learning aid that will run on any DOS-based PC with 2Mb of spare hard-disk storage, 640kb of memory and graphics capability (SVGA,VGA,EGA,CGA or Hercules). Colour and/or a mouse are used if available but are not essential.

CHESSOP displays positions, not games. Starting at the initial position the student can make moves and at each position CHESSOP displays the board and the moves that are generally regarded as the best at that point. There are many notes displayed also - these indicate why specific moves are good (or bad sometimes). The student can follow the named lines or see many of the variations that grandmasters are currently playing. Extensive on-line help is available. As at May 1993, the supplied CHESSOP database contained 82,986 positions, 88,681 moves and 17,163 annotations.

You can also intermix your own moves and comments (up to black's move 100) with the supplied database moves and notes. Your comments can be "tagged" with codes that you invent to represent the source of your games or researches. All your changes are logged so that they can be re-applied automatically, if you wish, to future versions of the CHESSOP database. And you can password-protect the update feature so that other people can view the openings data but not alter it in any way. CHESSOP is the result of 1300 person-hours of development.

CHESSOP can be obtained by writing to "CHESSX Software, 12 Bluebell Close, Glenmore Park, NSW 2745, Australia" specifying the disk type required ( 3.5" or 5.25"). Cost is $US39.00 or $Aus49.00 (postage included). Payment can be by cheque ($A or $US), Mastercard, VISA or Australian/NZ bankcard; please quote card number, cardholder's name and card expiry date. FREE SUPPORT via mail (preferably) or email (m.steel@uws.edu.au) is available for 3 months after sale (4 months outside Australia).


Mac Internet Tour Guide
AT LAST, THE INTERNET PUTS ON A MAC FACE!

Chapel Hill, NC--On the Internet, there's a hardware and an easy way to do almost anything. Most users view the Internet though a murky maze of obscure UNIX commands and frequent error messages. But with The Mac Internet Tour Guide, new from Ventana Press, Mac users--the pioneer spirits of the electronic universe--can explore the infinite reaches of the Internet the easy way: by pointing, clicking, dragging and dropping.

The Mac Internet Tour Guide--the first Internet book/disk package exclusively for Mac users--comes with everything needed to navigate the Internet with the ease of a Mac, including:

* A helping hand for newcomers: the inside scoop on the

  Internet's offerings, getting connected, information

  "surfing" tips and more.

* A road map to the Internet's vast information resources for

  beginning and experienced "cybernauts" alike.

* File transfer software that lets users visit remote sites

  quickly and easily and download valuable programs, files

  and more.

* E-mail software that converts the Internet's boring UNIX

  features to a face any Mac user will love.

* Decompression software that decodes files from practically

  any kind of computer in the world.

Book purchasers become members of The Mac Internet Tour Guide "Visitors Center," an online waystation where they'll stay up-to-the-minute on the Internet's latest developments and receive two free electronic updates by the author.

Michael Fraase is proprietor of Arts & Farces, a communications services business based in St. Paul, MN. A noted Macintosh author, Fraase has written The Macintosh Hypermedia Series (ScottForesman), Farallon's MediaTracks, Groupware for the Macintosh, Structured Publishing From the Desktop: Frame Technology's FrameMaker, and The Rapid Reference Series (all Business One Irwin).

The Mac Internet Tour Guide is softcover, 290 pages, illustrated and accompanied by an 800K disk containing a variety of utilities. Suggested retail price: $27.95. ISBN: 1-56604-062-0

Ventana Press publishes books that help computer users make the most of their hardware and software. Bestselling titles include Looking Good in Print, Third Edition, Voodoo Mac, The System 7 Book, Second Edition, The Official America Online Membership Kit & Tour Guide and The Mac Shareware 500. All titles are available in bookstores and through Ventana Press, P.O. Box 2468, Chapel Hill, NC 27515.


NetSoft Unveils Elite/400 Emulators V3.0
NetSoft Unveils Version 3.0 of Elite/400 Emulators for Improved Windows-to-AS/400 Connectivity.

LAGUNA HILLS, CA, July 26, 1993 -- NetSoft has announced version 3.0 of Elite/400 IWS and Elite/400 DSP, the company's 5250 emulators for Windows-to-AS/400 connectivity. Highlights of the new product roll-out include:

* A new, high-performance file transfer system 50% faster than competing products.

* A new, third-generation application called the NS/Router.

* Support for Novell's NetWare for SAA using the SPX ll protocol.

* Support for Twinax links (Elite/400 IWS and DSP are the only Windows based 5250 emulators for Twinax that work with a Windows based Router).

* Printer emulation for Elite/400 DSP.

* Variable font sizing, menu bar hiding, and other enhancements.

"These new capabilities offer the Windows user dramatically improved performance and value," said Russ Hertzberg, NetSoft's director of product marketing. "Our file transfer function is the fastest on the market, our new NS/Router vastly improves performance in all network environments, while support of Novell's advanced-technology SPX II transport protocol optimizes LAN/WAN connections."

THE ELITE/400 FAMILY

The Elite/400 software family includes:

* Elite/400 IWS (Intelligent Work Station), a client software product providing display emulation, printer emulation and file transfer capabilities. The Windows-based NS/Router replaces IBM's DOS-based PC Support Router.

* Elite/400 DSP (Display Station Passthrough), a client software product providing display and printer emulation, while eliminating the need to run IBM PC Support programs on the host AS/400. The NS/Router replaces the PC Support Router on the client PC.

* Elite/400 LAN Gateway, a server product providing client-to-AS/400 access via token ring, Ethernet or ARCnet LANs running NetBIOS or NetWare IPX/SPX. Elite/400 IWS and DSP can communicate through the Elite/400 LAN Gateway. Third party emulators such as IBM's DOS Workstation Feature (WSF) can also run through the Elite/400 LAN Gateway.

* The NS/Router, a client/server engine for Windows to AS/400 connectivity.

PRICE, PACKAGING, AND AVAILABILITY

The price of Elite/400 IWS 3.0 has been reduced from $395 to $295. Elite/400 DSP 3.0 is also available for $295. The NS/Router is priced at $95 as a separate option. The NS/Router and the file transfer system are included with Elite/400 IWS. The NS/Router is also included with Elite/400 DSP. All products will be available for customer delivery in August.

IMPROVED FILE TRANSFER PERFORMANCE

NetSoft has implemented a state-of-the-art Windows file transfer system as a standard feature of Elite/400 IWS. Benchmark tests have shown that the system is 50% faster than the "Transfer Function" supplied with IBM's Extended DOS PC Support client software for the AS/400. In addition, it supports more data types and is fully compliant with version 2, release 2 of IBM's OS/400 operating system. Extensive Windows dialog boxes are available for performance feedback throughout the entire transfer process. Users can easily structure query requests, from record and field levels all the way to complete files. They can browse through AS/400 data bases, specify fields, and create data selection criteria all without having to leave the Windows graphical user environment.

The file transfer system is fully compatible with the host PC Support Transfer Function, and will even read existing client .TTO and .TFR description files. DOS PC Support transfer function users will find the migration to the Windows file transfer system's graphical environment a rewarding experience.

ADVANCED NS/ROUTER

Elite/400 IWS and Elite/400 DSP version 3.0 come equipped with NetSoft's NS/Router as a standard feature. The NS/Router, introduced today by NetSoft in a separate announcement (see related news release), is the advanced APPC client-server protocol engine that allows Elite/400 to function as a pure Windows solution for enhanced reliability, ease of use, increased performance and improved security. NS/Router also features an IBM standard API. In contrast, other Windows-based 5250 software products must run on top of IBM's DOS-based PC Support Router, creating a variety of installation, reliability, performance, and security problems.

SPX II SUPPORT

Elite/400 IWS and DSP can now run on client PCs connected to a NetWare for SAA server running Novell's new SPX II transport protocol. "NetWare 4.0 and SPX II deliver substantial performance improvement on NetWare LANs," said Mr. Hertzberg. "Many of our large SNA enterprise customers want to use AS/400s as database servers, while continuing to use their NetWare LANs for remote file access, e-mail, and other LAN services.

Elite/400 is the ideal solution for Windows users in this environment. It provides AS/400 application access while delivering on the performance improvement potential of NetWare for SAA and SPX II"

"Elite/400 with the NS/Router is more than a pure APPC protocol engine," he continued. "When used with NetWare for SAA, it is the industry's first hybrid APPC/LAN protocol engine for seamless LAN/WAN connectivity from within Windows."

TWINAX SUPPORT

While the previous versions of Elite/400 IWS and DSP supported a wide range of SDLC adapter boards, version 3.0 has now added support for most available Twinax adapter boards. Elite/400 IWS and DSP are the only Windows based 5250 emulators for Twinax that can be used with a Windows based Router (the NS/Router).

Elite/400 IWS and DSP can be used with any Twinax board that includes an IBM PC Support compatible adapter handler interface. This includes Twinax boards from IBM, Andrew, AST, IDEAssociates, Micro Integration, Memorex/Telex, and many others.

OTHER ENHANCEMENTS

Complete printer emulation has now been added to Elite/400 DSP version 3.0, matching the printer capabilities already incorporated into Elite/400 IWS. Printer emulation support is broad based and flexible, including IBM 3812 (laser printer), IBM 5219 (letter quality) and IBM 5224 (dot matrix).

With the new Variable Font Sizing feature, it is now easier for Windows users to view wide-screen data such as 1 32-column session displays. Users can pan across the display screen using selected font sizes.

The new Menu Bar Hiding feature allows Elite/400 IWS and DSP to be configured so that the menu bar is not visible to the user. This allows IS management to simplify AS/400 host access for selected users.

NETSOFT

NetSoft develops, markets and supports PC-to-mainframe and PC-to-midrange connectivity products for multiprotocol networking environments. Products are available for DOS, Windows and OS/2, communicating over a wide variety of connections, including Coax, Twinax, SDLC, 802.2, Async, X.25, TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, SPX ll and NetBIOS.

Founded in 1980, NetSoft (formerly Network Software Associates, Inc.) offered its first-generation software under the product name AdaptSNA. In 1990, NetSoft introduced its second-generation technology in the form of the Elite product line. Today's introduction of Elite/400 3.0 incorporating the new NS/Router marks the debut of the company's third-generation technology, called New Systems (NS) technology.

NetSoft is headquartered at 39 Argonaut, Laguna Hills, CA 92656. Phone: (714) 768-4013 or (800) 352-3270


Pencom Swr Device Driver Development for WinNT
Pencom Software

Pencom Software to Provide Device Driver Development For Windows NT

AUSTIN, Texas, July 20, 1993 Pencom Software announced today the expansion of its successful Device Driver Development Program to include NT device driver development services. The company will provide rapid prototyping and object-oriented development assistance to allow a wide variety of products such as SCSI adapters, video adaptors, network cards, multi-media controllers and others to interface with the soon-to-be-released Windows NT environment.

The program highlights Pencom's object-oriented expertise in developing device drivers and allows vendors to have device driver prototypes quickly developed for a small, fixed-price fee. The program has proven to be very successful because it allows vendors to meet tight tradeshow demonstration schedules. Additionally, the prototypes are inexpensive enough to be used for evaluation and market testing purposes.

The prototypes are delivered in a binary-only distribution and are covered by no warranty or maintenance agreement. With the prototype completed, the driver can then be fully developed at a later date for an additional charge.

"Pencom's expertise in object-oriented development gives us a distinct advantage in rapid device driver development," said Dr. W. Frank King, president, Pencom Software. "The excitement surrounding the release of NT creates an atmosphere filled with expectations of how NT will enhance the marketplace. Our program allows vendors to get a first-hand look at how their products will run on NT."

Development of NT drivers requires a combination of experience in object-based kernel development and device driver development in client server environments to ensure that the driver meets today's high performance requirements. Pencom's position as a long-time supplier of device drivers for numerous multi-threaded environments, like NT, has allowed the company to build a strong foundation for object-based NT development efforts. Leveraging this expertise allows Pencom's software engineers to build fast, high quality and efficient device drivers.

For more information on NT Device Driver development, contact Brent Terry, Software Engineer, at (512) 343-6666 or email brent@pencom.com.

Pencom is a $45 million technology integration, systems and software development and recruiting firm with five offices nationwide.

Today, Pencom is the only company of its kind to provide an entire suite of specialized services necessary for companies involved in leading-edge technologies.


NetSoft NS/Router 3rd Generation Tech
NetSoft Announces NS/Router, Third-Generation Technology.

LAGUNA HILLS, CA, July 26, 1993--NetSoft has announced a new, advanced-technology router program called the NS/Router. Incorporating the company's third-generation New Systems (NS) technology, the NS/Router is the first Windows-based LU6.2 Advanced Program-to-Program Communications (APPC) client-server protocol engine for PC-to-AS/400 midrange systems connectivity.

The new NS/Router features expanded functionality, an IBM binary compatible API (EHNAPPC.DLL from PC Support 2.1 or later), and additional network links such as NetWare SPX ll and Twinax. The NS/Router is now available as a separate software option, allowing customers, independent software vendors, integrators, and resellers to quickly build Windows-to-AS/400 client/server systems.

In related announcements, NetSoft stated that the NS/Router has been licensed by Andrew for use with their PC connectivity products. In addition, Novell has endorsed the new NS/Router support of NetWare for SAA (see separate news release).

As a third-generation product, the NS/Router is based on over a decade of NetSoft SNA and internetworking development experience. PCs running the NS/Router can access up 32 concurrent sessions on as many as 32 different AS/400s over a wide variety of physical, data link, and LAN protocol environments.

The NS/Router is priced at $95 and will be available for customer delivery in August.

CLIENT-SERVER COMPUTING

"The NS/Router finally turns Windows into an outstanding client platform for AS/400 client-server applications," said Zak Kong, NetSoft's CEO. "It is an advanced LU6.2/APPC solution that can provide transparent Windows-to-AS/400 connectivity across both LAN and WAN environments."

PCs using APPC, or APPC API's mapped over LAN transports, communicate with AS/400 midrange computers by using the NS/Router with a 5250 emulator, an APPC application program, or both. The only other router program on the market with generalized network connectivity is IBM's PC Support Router, a DOS-based Terminate and Stay Resident (TSR) program. The NS/Router is the only Windows-based router with broad network connectivity that is currently available.

"Our previous router was available for use with our Elite/400 emulators communicating over SDLC and 802.2 links or through our Elite/400 LAN Gateway," said Martin Smith, NetSoft's product line manager for PC-to-AS/400 connectivity. "The new NS/Router, available as a separate product and as part of Elite/400 Version 3.0, now supports connectivity over Twinax and NetWare for SAA links, as well as PC-to-AS/400 communications via several third-party software applications."

THIRD-PARTY ISV COMPATIBILITY

The NS/Router provides binary compatibility with the IBM Application Programming Interface (API) called EHNAPPC.DLL. This API allows third-party Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) to easily interface their APPC applications to the NS/Router. As part of today's announcement package, the following ISVs have announced that their products support the NS/Router:

* Rochester Software Connection

  (Showcase Vista and Showcase ODBC products).

* Born Software Development Group

  (Outlook Professional, Outlook Standard, GUIDE, and ODBC/400).

* Trinzic Corporation (Forest and Trees).

REPLACING THE PC SUPPORT ROUTER

The NS/Router meets the needs of SNA enterprise customers who require a more reliable and manageable "pure Windows" solution to replace IBM's PC Support Router. "Other Windows-based 5250 emulators must run on top of IBM's DOS TSR Router, which can be difficult to install, use and maintain, and can introduce security risks on the AS/400," Mr. Smith continued.

The NS/Router has been implemented as a suite of Windows DLLs. As a replacement for the PC Support Router, it is easy to install, use and maintain, and provides improved network security.

"The NS/Router installs from within Windows in minutes," said Mr. Smith. "In contrast, the documentation required to tune PC Support to coexist with Windows spans at least nine IBM manuals and can take hours to accomplish."

The NS/Router also keeps AS/400 server data secure. PC Support's DOS Router and the Shared Folders function forces Windows to maintain an open pipe through which unauthorized file transfers can occur. Some users choose this security risk as a trade-off to the difficulties of exiting Windows to manage PC Support DOS TSRs. The NS/Router, however, allows the AS/400 to drop inactive links when appropriate for security, but also provides for fast, easy reconnection without having to leave Windows, thereby giving the AS/400 administrator the best of both worlds.

"In addition to eliminating the PC-resident PC Support Router, our Elite/400 DSP emulator also eliminates the need to run PC Support programs on the AS/400 host," said Mr. Smith. "Elite/400 DSP is therefore the ideal solution for customers who have the desire to remove all PC Support programs from both their PCs and their AS/400s."

NIC-NAMING

A powerful new capability built into the NS/Router is the NIC-Name feature, which greatly simplifies applications roll-out and LAN administration. With NIC-Naming, each LAN client automatically determines its APPC Node Name from its LAN Network Interface Card (NIC) address.

"This means that Elite/400 or other third-party 5250 emulators using the NS/Router can simply be loaded on the LAN file server instead of having to be configured separately for every client workstation," said Mr. Smith. "This can save an enormous amount of time and money for large LAN installations. The one crucial piece of client information that normally needs to be manually configured can now be determined automatically at run-time."

NetSoft (formerly Network Software Associates, Inc.) is an industry pioneer in SNA and APPC technologies. In 1986, the company was the first to ship an APPC software package specifically for PCs. Today, NetSoft has grown to become a leading supplier of multiprotocol PC connectivity products for IBM and heterogeneous networking environments.

NetSoft is headquartered at 39 Argonaut, Laguna Hills, CA 92656. Phone: (714) 768-4013 or (800) 352-3270


Sybase Expands Open Solutions Program
SYBASE EXPANDS OPEN SOLUTIONS PROGRAM FOR CHANNEL PARTNERS

Adds New Focus on Systems Integrators and Expands Services Provided to Open Solutions Program Participants

EMERYVILLE, CA, July 23, 1993 -- Sybase, Inc. today announced significant enhancements to its Open Solutions program for channel partners. Sybase has expanded the program by: 1) establishing a new systems integrator channel and 2) adding new dedicated technical services, sales and marketing support for companies that participate in the Open Solutions Program.

Sybase's expansion of its Open Solutions Program provides benefits to customers, participants and to Sybase itself. The company's relationships with independent software vendors (ISVs), value-added resellers (VARs) and systems integrators benefit customers by accelerating the successful delivery of complete enterprise client/server solutions. Participants benefit because the enhancements to the Open Solutions Program are designed to increase partner profitability. With Sybase's increased commitment to its channel partners, the company's goal is to increase indirect sales to approximately 30% of total sales by 1995.

According to Stewart Schuster, Sybase vice president of marketing, the motivation for the expanded program is the evolution of customer requirements. "As our customers become more successful with implementing client/server solutions, their requirements are becoming more sophisticated; they're demanding client/server solutions tailored to their evolving business needs. We firmly believe that the best way to meet those needs is to recruit and team with a targeted group of partners who provide the most advanced offerings in a complementary, noncompetitive environment. This has been our philosophy from the beginning and will continue as we expand to include systems integrators."

The Open Solutions Program was established in 1989. Until now, it has been focused primary on recruiting and supporting ISVs and VARs. Sybase typically defines ISVs as tools vendors who develop SYBASE' compatible software but do not resell SYBASE products, and VARS as application developers who embed SYBASE software in applications and resell these solutions to end users. Currently, there are 250 Sybase ISV and 250 VAR partners in the Open Solutions Program, which is focused on North America, with pilot programs internationally.

To develop the new systems integration component of the Open Solutions Program, Sybase has been working with more than 20 systems integrators in a pilot implementation this year. Sybase defines systems integrators as companies that resell SYBASE products, providing value-added services in networking, custom software development and hardware integration and support.

New Systems Integrator Program

Sybase designed the new systems integrator program to attract systems integrators who understand customers needs, are experts in distributed systems, and advocate moving data from legacy systems to client/server applications. These partners will work together with the Sybase sales force and will be mutually compensated on joint sales.

"The role of the systems integrator is key to the successful implementation of client/server systems and applications. These experts combine multiple products and technologies to provide total client/server solutions, including the tools, applications, database, hardware and operating systems," said Chuck Donchess, Sybase's vice president of market development. "The new program provides a cooperative environment in which we can work with systems integrators to deliver the most effective client/server solutions possible," he said.

Sybase has already attracted new participants for its systems integrator program. SHL Systemhouse, a systems management firm that focuses on client/server applications, recently signed on as a Sybase Open Solutions partner. "Sybase exceeds our criteria for a successful business partner," said Phil York, vice president, technology research and alliances, SHL Systemhouse. "We chose to partner with Sybase because of its leadership position in the client/server market and its commitment to work with us in sales, marketing, technical support and product evolution. The company's orientation toward partnering fits well with our business strategy, and we look forward to mutual successes," York said. Electronic Data Systems (EDS) and Andersen Consulting, two of the world's largest systems integrators working with customers to bring mainframe applications to the client/server environment, have also recently joined Sybase as Open Solutions participants under the new program.

Open Solutions Expansion & Support

Sybase has assessed the needs of its ISVs, VARs and systems integrators, resulting in the expansion of the Open Solutions Program to meet three primary requirements: 1) to help partners get products to market, 2) to assist partners with market penetration, and 3) to increase partner success in a cooperative, noncompetitive environment. To this end, Sybase is dedicating new resources to support participants in three key areas:

* Technical Services: Enhancements to the program include partner-dedicated technical support, a special 800 number for U.S. participants, education courses, and consulting services specifically designed for partners.

* Marketing: New joint marketing programs; expanded joint lead generation programs; and a new focus on training the Sybase field sales force about its channel partners has been added.

* Sales: A dedicated sales organization has been established to support channel sales including Business Partner Sales Managers (partner liaisons to the Sybase field), a telesales group, and a group vice president.

"Customers today are often looking to a number of sources for the architecture, application software and integration and implementation assistance," said Donchess. "They can now choose from multiple vendors to combine the best in-class components for a total solution. We've designed a unified program that allows Sybase to deliver the database architecture and our Open Solutions participants to provide the applications and integration services. That way, each partner leverages its strength," he said.

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


Computer Jockey's Customized Workout
NOW AN EXERCISE VIDEO PROGRAM FOR IBM PC COMPUTERS THAT CAN BE CUSTOMIZED TO THE COMPUTER USER'S NEEDS

July 21, 1993 -- Forget Richard Simmons and Jane Fonda and meet exercise coaches Mark and Magan. Panda-Graphics Inc. is marketing The Computer Jockey's Customized Workout, Version 1.2, an IBM PC animated graphics exercise program that can be customized to the computer user's own fitness level. You choose the exercises, the number of repetitions for each exercise, musical accompaniment, and other options, then save them to one of twelve possible exercise routine files. After choosing the exercise routine file you want to use, follow the lead of one of two animated coaches (Mark or Magan). Make your exercise routines more challenging as your fitness level increases.

Patty Windom of Corvallis, Oregon has lost 10 pounds in 7 weeks and prefers it to VCR workouts because she can set up exercise routines to fit her changing needs. Patty says "it's a fresh new way to do exercises" and "I enjoy working out more and I love the graphics." If you've ever used a VCR workout, you know what it's like to be strictly bound to the type, order, and length of exercises in the video workout. With this new program, you can even synchronize your exercises to music you choose to play on your own stereo or CD player.

Great for anyone who spends time in front of a computer screen at home or at work, The Computer JockeY's Customized Workout can be used by the beginning exerciser or the serious weight trainer. The 38 exercises in the program range from simple stretches to exercises specific to muscle groups important to weight trainers. The program has exercises for everyone, including the basic aerobic bench step.

The Computer Jockey's Customized Workout, Version 1.2, requires an IBM PC or IBM PC compatible machine using DOS 3.1 or higher, 12 Mhz. or faster, EGA or VGA (16-color), 320K RAM, and 1.5 megabytes of hard disk space. It is available now and can be ordered from Panda-Graphics Inc., 39038 Trillium Lane, Corvallis, Oregon 97330 for $20.00 + $3.00 shipping and handling.


Excellink JetCard Series for LaserJet Sharing
Excellink Introduces Printer Sharing Upgrades for HP LaserJet 4Si, 4Si MX, and Others

Latest Version of JetCard Series Includes New Software and $150 Worth of Free Cabling

San Jose, California, July 26, 1993 -- Excellink, Inc., a Hewlett-Packard Independent Hardware Vendor, is now shipping its upgraded JetCard series of printer sharing solutions. Designed to maximize the cost-effectiveness of expensive printers and plotters, the JetCard printer sharing upgrades allow up to ten users to share any of the following H-P printers: the LaserJet 4Si, 4Si MX and 4; the LaserJet IIISi, III, IIID, II and IID; the DesignJet plotter; the DeskJet 1200C; or the HP PaintJet XL300 color printer. The upgraded JetCard connects up to 10 PCs, Macs or other computers to the printer via thin, easy-to-install RJ-11 telephone cables and now comes bundled with up to $150 worth of cables and adapters free of charge.

Plug-and-Play Solution

"Market demand was the driving force behind the creation of the JetCard series," said Joe Hartzell, director of sales and marketing for Excellink, Inc. "Our customers demand plug-and-play products that are easy to install and ready to use right out of the box. This upgrade was designed with those users in mind. That's why we have included all of the cabling, adapters and software required for an entire office to be printing in minutes. "

Faster Performance Enhanced with Bundled Software

JetCard, which plugs into the Optional I/O slot of most LaserJet printers, features RJ-11 serial ports that support speeds up to 115,200 baud, twelve times faster than standard PC serial ports. Users connect their PCs to the JetCard using the included adapters and RJ-11 cables. Each JetCard comes bundled with JetSetup, a new DOS/Windows-compatible software utility that automatically upgrades each PC and JetCard serial port to the higher baud rates. JetSetup also allows users easy access to other JetCard features such as remote language switching, number of copies settings, and end-of-job time-outs. JetSetup makes installation easier for everyone by eliminating the need for confusing text-string codes and mode commands. Users simply tell the program the desired settings, and JetSetup takes care of the rest.

"The JetCard series provides today's most cost-effective solution for sharing an HP peripheral. No other product provides such a complete a solution; no one offers this many features at a better price," continued Hartzell.

Specifications and Availability

The JetCard cards are available with three to ten input ports and come standard with 256K or 1M of buffer which is user-upgradeable to 4MB. All products are available immediately at prices ranging from $295 to $695. JetCard can be purchased directly from Excellink or through the company's network of authorized resellers.

Excellink, Inc., a leading manufacturer of high-performance printer connectivity products, is located at 1430 Tully Road #415, San Jose CA 95122. Telephone: (408) 295-9000 Fax: (408) 295-9011


Excellink SPort LaserJet 4Si Serial Interface
Excellink Introduces Serial Interface for HP LaserJet 4Si, 4Si MX, and Others

SPort 4Si Card Allows Serial Connection for Minicomputers, PCs and Mainframes

San Jose, California, July 26, 1993 -- Excellink, Inc., a Hewlett-Packard Independent Hardware Vendor, is now shipping its SPort 4Si serial interface card for HP MIO compatible printers. Designed to allow serial access to HP's new highend laser and color printers, the SPort 4Si serial interface allows any RS-232C compatible device to print to the new HP LaserJet 4Si and 4Si MX laser printers as well as the HP PaintJet XL300 and new DeskJet 1200C color printer.

"Although the majority of computers utilize a Centronics parallel interface for printing, there are still thousands of minicomputers out there that only have a serial printer port. " said Joe Hartzell, director of sales and marketing for Excellink, Inc. "SPort 4Si is a quick-and-easy solution for those users that need the powerful capabilities that the LaserJet 4Si and DeskJet 1200C provide."

SPort 4Si, which plugs into the MIO (Modular I/O) slot of compatible LaserJet printers, features an RJ-11 serial port that supports data transfer rates up to 57,600 bps (approximately 5.7 Kbytes per second). Options such as baud rate and handshaking method can be selected through the LaserJet 4Si's front panel, just as if the port was built into the printer. Users connect their computer to the SPort 4Si using the included DB-25 adapter and 25 foot RJ-11 cable. Like all Excellink products, SPort 4Si comes with a lifetime warranty and free lifetime support. At a suggested retail price of $189, SPort 4Si is available immediately through Excellink and its network of authorized resellers.

Excellink, Inc., a leading manufacturer of high-performance printer connectivity products, is located at 1430 Tully Road # 415, San Jose CA 95122. Telephone: (408) 295-9000 Fax: (408) 295-9011


CoSA Effects Pack Vol 1 Special Effects Pckg
CoSA Releases Another Round of Plug-in Special Effects Enhanced Features and Functionality, $99 For CoSA After Effects Users

(July 19, 1993, Providence, RI)--CoSA (The Company of Science and Art) will release CoSA EFFECTS PACK, vol. 1, a plug-in special effects package for CoSA After Effects, August 3, 1993 at the MacWorld Exposition/Boston and SIGGRAPH 93 in Anaheim, California. CoSA EFFECTS PACK, vol.1, holds a $199.00 value, but will be offered to registered CoSA After Effects users at a special introductory price of $99.00.

This plug-in pack for CoSA After Effects, the professional quality motion graphics and special effects application, is the second of a series of plug-in packages that CoSA will release. Users receive the first of this series, Additional Effects, free of charge when they register CoSA After Effects.

CoSA EFFECTS PACK, vol. 1, offers new effects for stylizing and distorting video images, a set of antialiased transitions, and image filters for such essential tasks as color correction. For example, "Wave Warp" produces high quality undulating and zig-zagging image distortions. "Texturize," which creates an illusion of depth by making one layer appear to be draped over any other layer, can be applied to still images or moving video. As with all of CoSA After Effects' controls, each parameter of these effects can be manipulated over time through the use of keyframes.

Other effects include:

* Block Dissolve

* Displacement Map

* Equalize

* Gamma/Pedestal/Gain

* Leave Color

* Linear Wipe

* Minimax

* Motion Blur

* Offset

* Radial Wipe (aka Clock Wipe)

* Set Channels

* Scatter

* Strobe

* Venetian Blinds

CoSA plans to release more effects packs in the future, including modules which will enhance the program's rendering speeds by taking advantage of digital signal processors and other acceleration technologies. CoSA After Effects also drives filters written for the Adobe Photoshop specification, such as Kai's Power Tools, Aldus Gallery Effects, and XAOS Tools' Paint Alchemy.

CoSA President Bill O'Farrell says, "The release of CoSA's new effects is another example of our commitment to keeping video producers at the height of their profession. Each effect opens up a new creative avenue for our customers. We continue to ensure that productions created with CoSA After Effects are the most exciting possible."

CoSA After Effects is a digital compositing, 2D animation, and special effects program for the Macintosh. It allows video professionals to combine, layer, and composite an unlimited number of QuickTime movies and PICT files. Within the keyframe paradigm, CoSA After Effects users can interactively or numerically apply special effects and motion over time. CoSA After Effects provides users with the control, functionality, and output quality that they expect to find in expensive post-production facilities.

CoSA will be demonstrating CoSA EFFECTS PACK, vol. 1, as well as CoSA After Effects, at MacWorld Exposition/Boston from August 3-6 in booth #5645, and at SIGGRAPH '93, held at the Anaheim Convention Center from August 3-5 in booth #2245.

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

(401) 831-2672; FAX (401) 831-2675


Multitasking GPIB Driver Swr for OS/2 2.0
Multitasking GPIB Driver Software Now Takes Advantage of OS/2 2.0 Features

July 22, 1993 -- Austin, TX - National Instruments announced today an OS/2 2.x-compatible version of its IEEE 488.2 driver software for IBM PC AT, PS/2, and compatible computers. Developers can use NI-488.2M for OS/2 with the company's AT-GPIB and MC-GPIB IEEE 488.2 interface boards in numerous instrumentation applications, including automated testing and laboratory automation. NI-488.2M for OS/2 features complete IEEE 488.2 compatibility, more efficient multitasking, and full 32-bit operation.

NI-488.2M for OS/2 includes the industry-standard set of NI-488 functions and a set of OS/2 API functions to perform GPIB operations. It also features a set of routines that duplicate the IEEE 488.2-specified sequences and protocols, including language interface libraries for CSet/2 (32-bit) and Borland C++. The C language interface libraries are dynamic link libraries (DLLs), so users can change the language interface library without modifying or recompiling the corresponding executable applications. Several applications can also share the same language interface DLL, so applications that execute simultaneously can use the same copy of the DLL loaded into memory instead of linking to separate object libraries. NI-488.2M for OS/2 also includes configuration and debugging utilities and new documentation. Existing NI-488 for OS/2 users can easily port their NI-488 or API programs to NI-488.2M for OS/2 with minimal source code changes.

Pricing and Availability

NI-488.2M for OS/2 is available now for existing AT-GPIB and MC-GPIB users for $200. Existing NI-488 for OS/2 users can upgrade to the new software version for a nominal fee. For more information, contact National Instruments, 6504 Bridge Point Parkway, Austin, TX 78730-5039, (512) 794-0100. Or call toll free in the U.S. and Canada at (800) 433-3488. Fax: (512) 794-8411.


IEEE 488 Kits for HP Workstations
New Kits Connect IEEE 488 Instruments to HP Workstations

Multitasking GPIB Software Gives Users Plug-In and External Options

July 22, 1993 -- Austin, TX - National Instruments announced today two new kits that connect Hewlett-Packard 9000 Series 700 EISA workstations to IEEE 488 (GPIB) instruments. Engineers and scientists can use the National Instruments GPIB-HP700-AT high-performance plug-in controller board or the GPIB-ENET/HP external interface kit with the HP 9000 Series 700 workstations in numerous instrumentation applications, including automated testing and laboratory automation.

About the GPIB-HP700-AT

The GPIB-HP700-AT is a low-cost, high-performance IEEE 488.2 interface for Hewlett-Packard 9000 Series 700 workstations with EISA slots. The National Instruments custom NAT4882 and Turbo488 ASICs make the GPIB-HP700-AT a maximum-performance IEEE 488.2 interface board. The NAT4882 chip performs the basic IEEE 488 Talker, Listener, and Controller functions, as well as all of the Controller functions required by the IEEE 488.2 standard. By using the Turbo488, the GPIB-HP700-AT can exceed rates of 1 Mbytes/s for both read and write operations. The GPIB-HP700-AT includes high-level NI-488.2M software for HP-UX version 9.01 and above.

About the GPIB-ENET/HP

The GPIB-ENET/HP kit controls IEEE 488 instruments from a HP 9000 Series 700 Ethernet host with access to a TCP/IP network. Users can program GPIB-ENET controllers from driver-equipped host HP or Sun SPARC workstations anywhere on Internet, a worldwide scientific, research, and educational network. Scientists and engineers can also use the GPIB-ENET to share GPIB peripherals between many networked users. For example, a user can control a GPIB system interfaced to a network by the GPIB-ENET from driver-equipped workstations located within the same building or from another location in another state or country. The compact GPIB-ENET also has an internal power supply, and includes high-level NI-488.2M software for HP-UX.

About NI-488.2M

Both the GPIB-HP700-AT and GPIB-ENET/HP include the National Instruments NI-488.2M software for HP-UX. NI-488.2M is a multitasking, enhanced version of the company's NI-488 GPIB driver software that is completely IEEE 488.2 compatible. NI-488.2M has high-level functions that transparently handle GPIB protocol and buffered DMA transfers as well as low-level functions for maximum flexibility and configurability. NI-488.2M software for HP-UX is compatible with existing NI-488 application programs and automatically handles GPIB protocols. The NI-488.2M software is portable across many computer platforms and operating systems.

Pricing and Availability

The GPIB-HP700-AT is available now for $695 and includes NI-488.2M. NI-488.2M for HPUX for existing AT-GPIB users is available for $200. The GPIB-ENET/HP kit is available also now. Prices are $1,595 for the AUI/Twisted Pair version and $1,695 for the AUI/Coxial version. These prices are for single workstation use; an optional software site license is available for several workstations. A software-only package is also available for current GPIB-ENET/Sun users.

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


DSO Manager Controls Leader Instruments
DSO Manager Increases Productivity By Controlling DSO from Leader Instruments

July 22, 1993 -- Mount Laurel, NJ - FemtoTek announced today DSO Manager, a new productivity tool for controlling a Leader Instruments Model 3100D Digital Storage Oscilloscope (DSO) from a graphical user interface (GUI) on a DOS PC using a mouse. Based on the LabWindows software from National Instruments, DSO Manager is available from FemtoTek as software only or as a complete system, which includes a National Instruments GPIB interface board. FemtoTek is a member of the National Instruments Alliance Program.

With DSO Manager, engineers and scientists have complete functionality for storing, comparing, and documenting waveform data. For repetitive use of the oscilloscope in calibration or service departments, DSO Manager contains powerful features for quick setup to predefined measurement settings. For PC-based display, users can store waveforms from the oscilloscope and display them in near real time on the PC.

DSO Manager adds easy to use computer control to the full functionality of a standalone oscilloscope. With the DSO Manager pop-up screens and menus, users can perform all standard oscilloscope functions, including:

* Read and set front panel settings

* Transfer waveforms to/from oscilloscope

* Display waveforms and setup on PC screen

* Store and retrieve measurement setups to disk

* Store and retrieve waveform data to disk

* Plot waveforms to a graphical printer

* Export waveforms data to ASCII files for documentation

* Compute spectrum of stored waveforms

Additionally, DSO Manager performs all asynchronous measurement functions of the oscilloscope, including pass/fail measurements on displayed waveform data, parametric measurements on pulse shapes, and single-sweep data capture.

About LabWindows

LabWindows is a set of software tools and libraries for developing programs under DOS with Microsoft C and QuickBASIC for instrument control, data acquisition, analysis, and presentation. Version 2.3 features a new user interface CodeBuilder, an interactive prototyping and program-generation utility to help LabWindows users automatically design and build programs with GUIs. With LabWindows, users can control GPIB, VXI, and RS-232 instruments, along with plug-in data acquisition boards. The LabWindows Instrument Library contains over 300 ready-to-use high-level drivers for controlling specific programmable instruments. The LabWindows User Interface Library has functions for creating multiplot graphs, strip charts, bar charts, and scatter plots. The LabWindows Analysis Libraries have functions for array and matrix manipulation, complex arithmetic, and statistics, Fast Fourier Transforms, curve fitting, digital filters, real and complex vector and scalar operations, and high-level statistical analysis.

Pricing and Availability

DSO Manager (software only) is available now from FemtoTek for $595. The DSO Manager System (which includes a National Instruments GPIB-PCII/IIA or AT-GPIB interface board) is also available now from FemtoTek for $945 and $1,045 respectively. FemtoTek will announce support for additional Leader instruments later this year.

LabWindows is available now from National Instruments for $1,495.

For More Information For more information about DSO Manager, please contact FemtoTek, Inc., 560 Fellowship Rd., Mount Laurel, NJ 08054, (609) 235-4435. Fax: (609) 722-0153.

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. and Canada at (800) 433-3488. Fax: (512) 794-8411.


New Features in JORF Version 2.1
JORF Version 2.1 - New Features

The interpreter runs as much as 10 times faster for some processes. A lot of work has gone into decreasing disk access so people can run the JORF interpreter from a floppy disk. The JORF386 interpreter uses 32-bit processing and VROOM to increase speed and use high memory. The JORF386 version must be run from a hard disk on a 386 or 486 computer.

Clipper style DBF/DBT/NTX file support has been added. Although it would seem intuitive to support dBASE IV format, the vote from the programmer community indicated that there are far more Clipper applications than dBASE IV applications. The support of Clipper files enables programmers to duplicate and add to existing Clipper applications without making their existing programs obsolete. People who use FoxBase and dBASE files can still use JORF, but will have to avoid the Floating Point formats and will not be able to use compatible indexes.

The Win:Attr() function now allows you to set any of 16 background and foreground colors. The "Blink" attribute has been turned off under DOS, yielding 8 more background colors, including dark gray and yellow.

The internal format of the JORF Pointer has been augmented. New types include a date type and a time type. Partially implemented is a BLOB (Binary Large Object) type that will enable developers to store large strings and other binary data. Under the new system there is still room for eight more internal data types for future expansion.

The Program Editor now features syntax highlighting, with different colors for functions, constants, numbers, punctuation and comments. This highlighting makes it easier to read code, and gives an instant "syntax check" to be sure you spelled everything correctly.

A "Type" and "Format" commands have been added to field input to allow data to be type checked and reformatted when entered. This capability allows numbers to be entered in numeric format, and automatically redisplayed with decimal positioning.

The JORF to C language translator is now a separate program JTOC.EXE. Much work has been done to decrease the size of translated modules. The libraries have been optimized with smaller module sizes to increase speed under VROOM.

The internal storage format of a structure has been modified to be more compact. The format change is automatic when a structure is written. You can reformat a file by rebuilding it. Reformatting the Contact Manager JCM files yields new files that are 25% the size of the old files.

New sample programs include a Calendar date picker, a calculator, and a screen color setting program. The Contact manager has split into two versions, MAILLIST.J is a simple version, and CONTACT.J is more complex. Some file handling programs have been added. On-Line help has been expanded.

The JORF Company

25858 Elwood Rd, Colton, OR

97017

503-824-JORF


SafeSaxx Protective Coverings for Notebooks
SafeSaxx is the trademark of a line of protective coverings for  notebook computers.  Paradigm manufactures seven (7) models to fit  Macintosh PowerBook, PowerBook Duo, IBM, Zenith, Toshiba, Hewlett  Packard, Texas Instruments, Notable, Compaq, Outbound, NEC and others.

The SafeSax (Safe-sacks) protective covers are Made In USA of nylon  covered neoprene rubber using a patented process.  The SafeSax are  conformal to the model notebook computer they are designed to fit and  provide dirt, dust and impact protection without having to resort to  carrying a separate piece of luggage in addition to your existing  briefcase (a large number of notebook computers are stolen because  thieves now identify the special cases as targets).

SafeSax completely encloses the notebook computer preventing the odd  paper clip or other loose object from entering the disk drive door or  shorting-out the power connector in the rear of the unit, thus saving  the motherboard from damage.

The manufacturers suggested retail price for the SafeSax is $49.95.

SafeSax are available in black, grey and blue.  Special orders may be  placed for other colors and with company or club logos on the cover of  the SafeSax.

Paradigm Technologies, Inc.

P. O. Box 790 - South Pasadena, CA 91031-0790

2680 Monterey Road - San Marino, CA 91108-1646

(818) 799-2421  FAX (818) 799-5994


Bit Jugglers - UnderWare Mac Screen Saver
BIT JUGGLERS ANNOUNCES UNDERWARE

Software that brings the fun of a screen saver to your desktop

Mountain View, California, July 23, 1993-Bit Jugglers Inc. today  announced UnderWare, a new Macintosh software product that combines  traditional screen saving capabilities with desktop animation and  customization.

"And I thought I'd seen everything that could be done to make a  Macintosh more fun. You can't be cool if you don't have it," said Guy  Kawasaki, Macintosh pundit and Bit Juggler board member.

UnderWare provides three modes:

1) Dynamic Desktop. This mode runs UnderWare modules and After Dark  modules on the Macintosh desktop. The difference between UnderWare's  Dynamic Desktop and After Dark is that UnderWare runs while the  computer is being used-under your windows and icons-while After Dark  runs only when a computer is asleep. Thus, with UnderWare it is  possible for users to see Flying Toasters running on their desktop.

2) Screen saver. This mode runs UnderWare and After Dark modules as  conventional screen savers. Screen saver modules run on top of the  screen, blanking out layers underneath and preventing screen burn in.

3) Desktop pattern. Granite, oak paneling, green olives and barn  siding are just a few of the custom desktop patterns users can choose  from with UnderWare.

UnderWare includes over thirty professionally designed animation  modules including:

- Dinosaurs walking through a prehistoric landscape

- Files, folders, and icons sprouting legs and running off the screen

- A robber burrowing into your Macintosh and stealing microchips

- Butterflies flying across your desktop and landing on your icons

- A congenial fire breathing dragon melting your trash can

- A San Francisco cityscape with moving cars and people

- A Yosemite Valley scene with flowing waterfalls and floating clouds

- Tennis balls bouncing in three dimensional graphics

- Icons rocketing into orbit

- Rubber chickens flying in formation

UnderWare provides a user-configurable system activity monitor that  checks for CPU usage such as network access or file downloads. This  prevents module animation from taking processing cycles away from  important background activities. UnderWare is a control panel device  and needs less than 100 Kbytes of system heap memory. It requires at  least a 68020 Macintosh with Color QuickDraw, 4 MB of RAM and System  7.

The suggested retail price of UnderWare is $59.95 and will ship in  September. Bit Jugglers Inc. is headquartered at 785 Castro Street,  Suite C, Mountain View, CA 94041. The phone number is 415-968-3908 and  the fax number is 415-968-5358. .


Electronic NewsStand Launched on Internet
ELECTRONIC NEWSSTAND Launched on the Global Internet

(New York, July 25, 1993)-- The New Republic, Inc. of Washington, D.C. and The Internet Company of Hudson, MA today launched Electronic Newsstand Inc., a new company created to market subscription and single copy sales for magazine publishers via the Global Internet -- the worldwide computer communications network spanning more than 45 countries and 5 continents. The new company will also be involved in providing advertisers access to Internet.

"We think this could become the newest and most efficient subscription source for a wide range of publishers," says Jeffrey Dearth, President of The New Republic magazine, founder and CEO of Electronic Newsstand Inc. "The estimated 10 to 15 million Internet users can browse the table of contents and selected articles from the publications of our newsstand 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and send orders to us electronically. It's like being in the mail every day as far as circulation acquisition is concerned. The publishing industry has been looking for a new subscription source, and this is it, particularly as the Internet continues to grow among consumers."

Publications that have signed up during the launch phase include: The New Yorker, The Economist, The New Republic, Foreign Affairs, National Review, Technology Review, Eating Well, Outside Magazine, The Journal of NIH Research, The Source, and New Age Journal. These magazines will receive subscription and single copy orders daily via electronic mail generated by Electronic Newsstand. Other publications will be invited to participate in the Electronic Newsstand in the coming months.

"The culture of the Global Internet is such that the information it provides is shared freely and openly among its users," said Robert Raisch, President of The Internet Company, and COO of Electronic Newsstand. "That's why each of our first wave of publishers will be providing a table of contents and one or more editorial features free through Electronic Newsstand to users on the Internet."

"The idea is that the more people are exposed to a magazine's editorial content, the more likely they are to be interested in subscribing to a hard copy, or in purchasing a single issue. We've tested this concept on one on-line computer network, and it works. Since the Internet is really a collection of thousands of computer networks, all of which share the same information, it's the next logical step," adds Dearth.

"The Internet Company was formed specifically to develop opportunities like Electronic Newsstand," says Raisch. "Electronic Newsstand represents one of the first attempts to develop general content specifically for the Global Internet. As Internet users visit our 'store', so to speak, we will provide them with valuable information about a wide range of products and services and this will allow them to make truly informed purchasing decisions."

"Our service is designed to showcase an advertiser's products and services -- providing a 'point of presence' from which they can represent their products and take orders. Once a customer accesses our service, we are able to collect information from customers actively, by asking questions, or passively, by simply watching where they visit and what documents they retrieve," Raisch continues.

"Most users access the Global Internet by using personal computers over traditional communications channels -- channels which excel at transfering simple text. As these channels become faster and more powerful, we'll provide a full multimedia service, including pictures, sound and video, all over the same channel.

In the meantime, the Internet can serve vast amounts of information to benefit advertisers and their customers. It's a win-win scenario."

Connecting to Electronic Newsstand --

Connections to the Electronic Newsstand are made via the 'gopher' protocol to host 'gopher.netsys.com' on port 2100. If you are unable to use gopher to access this host, you can telnet to gopher.netsys.com, login: enews

If you have any difficulties, please send mail to 'staff@enews.com'


NetNews on CD's - Usenet News on CD-ROM
NetNews On CD's

NetNews on CD's, the USENET News on CD-ROM's product previously published by Sterling Software as NetNews/CD, has taken on an updated look and new features, and is now published by CD Publishing Corporation.  NetNews on CD's provides an archiving and distribution service for USENET news and makes the wealth of information on USENET available whenever you need it without the requirement for excessive disk storage, tape archival/retrieval facilities, limitations of communication link speeds, and prohibitively high newsfeed and/or telephone charges.  Each issue of NetNews on CD's contains approximately 600 megabytes of news.

NetNews on CD's is currently being published in ISO 9660 format, and support for the Rock Ridge extension is planned.  News reading software for UNIX and Macintosh platforms is currently included on the disc.  Other platforms which support the ISO 9660 CD format (such as DOS with MSCDEX) are also capable of retrieving the data contained on the CD's.

There are two NetNews on CD's products.  The General Series contains the mainstream USENET newsgroups as well as the "alt" newsgroups.  The top-level newsgroup hierarchies included in this series are:

    comp, misc, news, rec, sci, soc, talk, and alt

The Specialized/Regional Series contains the specialized newsgroup hierarchies and the various regional newsgroups hierarchies.  The Specialized newsgroup hierarchies included in this series are:

    bionet, bit, biz, ddn, gnu, hiv, ieee, k12, pubnet,

    sura, u3b, uunet, vmsnet

NetNews on CD's subscription rates are based on the quantity of CD's ordered.  The CD's for any Series may be ordered in single quantities or as a multiple-issue subscription set.  A set is considered to be 6, 12 or 24 consecutive issues from one of the Series.  The actual term of the subscription will depend upon the frequency of publication of the selected Series and the selected subscription start date.  Rates range from US$40 for single issues, to US$24 per CD in 24-issue sets/subscriptions.  Subscriptions can begin at any time in the past, and back issues are available.

For information and ordering, contact us anytime at:

CD Publishing Corporation

4824 Fraser St, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada   V5V 4H4

604-874-1430,   800-333-7565 (USA),   604-874-1431 (FAX)

Internet Email: info@CDPublishing.com

A 24-hour voice mail and faxback service is available for your convenience.

There are no restrictions on the subscribers' use of the news articles on the CD, except those that were placed by the original authors of the articles.  However, some of the proprietary software packages and databases placed on the CD to increase the utility and usefulness of NetNews on CD's are subject to commercial software licensing terms.


Microsoft Windows NT & Advanced Server to Mfg
Microsoft Releases Windows NT and Advanced Server to Manufacturing

Release Proves Microsoft's Commitment to Corporate Users; Industry Support Is Largest-ever for High-end Operating System

REDMOND, Wash. * July 27, 1993 * Microsoft Corporation  today released both the Microsoft* Windows NT* operating system  and Windows NT Advanced Server to manufacturing.  Shipments of  the complete Windows NT solution for client-server computing are  scheduled to be available from value-added resellers, systems  integrators, computer manufacturers and software retailers - as  well as direct from Microsoft - within  three weeks.

The computer industry is responding to this major milestone  with a large outpouring of third-party support.  Windows NT has  been tested for compatibility with more than 2,600 computers,  printers and peripherals.  More than 70,000 development kits for  Windows NT have been purchased, and more than 2,000 new 32-bit  applications for the Microsoft Windows* operating system are  being developed for release over the coming months.  These new  applications will add to the base of tens of thousands of  existing applications for the Windows and MS-DOS* operating  systems that can be run without change on Windows NT.  More than  15,000 people at 3,000 companies have been trained under  Microsoft's Solution Providers program to offer end users high- quality training and technical support worldwide.

"When we introduced the Windows NT platform, we declared our  unwavering commitment to corporate users and the corporate  market.  The shipment of Windows NT will be an important  milestone, enabling customers to benefit more fully from their  already large investment in the Windows-based environment," said  Gates.  "As evaluations are completed and new applications are  developed, Windows NT will be seen as a tool that provides  customers with the opportunities to significantly extend the  benefits they get from their PC desktop and server hardware,  simplify their environments, and tap into their existing  computing equipment more easily by using the industry-standard  networking that is integrated into Windows NT.

"For business-critical computing, corporate users place a  high priority on stability and reliability," Gates added.  "So do  we - so we subjected Windows NT to the most extensive testing  effort in our history.  The massive industry support  infrastructure now in place for Windows NT should make corporate  users confident that Windows NT is, as promised, an extremely  powerful, reliable and open solution for client-server  computing."

Users Praise Power, Stability, Open Architecture

Bank of America was an early user of Windows NT.  "To  justify the move to a new system, we needed a business analysis  and reporting system that could better handle massive amounts of  data and complex financial reports, while performing at an  optimum level in Bank of America's Intel and Windows-based  environment," said William Carpenter, vice president in charge of  PC/MIS for Bank of America's Wholesale Banking Information  Management.  "We needed new levels of power, flexibility and ease  of use; we found it with Windows NT."

Arbor offers eSSbase for Windows NT, the industry's first  client-server multidimensional analysis system.  In its Bank of  America installation, the eSSbase software for Windows NT  consolidates data available on the network in 50 minutes,  compared to 18 hours needed for the earlier, mainframe-based  system.

"Windows NT allows us to build applications that combine  mission-critical power and the familiar Windows interface, so our  users can accomplish new tasks without special retraining," said  Kirk Cruikshank, vice president of marketing at Arbor Software.

NASA is taking advantage of the portability of Windows NT  with a range of networked RISC, symmetric multiprocessor  computers and x86 uniprocessor computers to manage its "Mission  Planet Earth" project, which analyzes and consolidates 2  terabytes of satellite-based geographic information per day.

"Windows NT is highly robust and stable and is truly a next  generation operating system," said Dr. Briscoe Stephens, manager  of NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center.  "Microsoft has taken the  best parts of the operating systems that exist today and put them  into Windows NT, while reducing the expense of training employees  because of its ease of use."

The robustness of  Windows NT and its compatibility with  existing hardware and software were tested by an unprecedented  70,000-plus developers and 10,000-plus corporate end-user sites  prior to release.  Microsoft tested Windows NT every day for more  than two years, subjecting the daily builds to heavy stress  testing to expose problems.  Microsoft has also been using  Windows NT internally for more than two years - both as a  development platform and as its corporate server platform.

The Arizona Department of Transportation will use Windows NT  as a CAD platform for workgroup use with Windows NT Advanced  Server functioning as the domain controller.

"Stability and single network log on are the biggest issues  for my business," said Cliff Barnett, EDP programmer and analyst,  Arizona Department of Transportation.  "Windows NT is a much more  stable platform; security is tighter; and log on is greatly  simplified.  We don't have to keep track of 30 different  passwords anymore.  And using the Windows interface with Windows  NT is a real benefit.  Our employees have seamless access to the  operating system without having to think about what platform they  are using."

"After studying many alternatives, Nordstrom chose Windows  NT Advanced Server for its new enterprise management system,"  said Larry Shaw, PC coordinator at Nordstrom.  "We made this  choice because of the clear advantages the Windows NT platform  offers in the area of distributed systems management, control and  security.  The Windows NT Advanced Server makes our  administrator's job much easier by offering a single log-on  feature plus remote administration and management capabilities.   These features give Nordstrom the ability to administer all of  its stores from one central location."

"We are thrilled to see the availability of Windows NT and  Windows NT Advanced Server," said Casey Powell, CEO, president  and chairman of Sequent Computer Systems, Inc.  "Corporate  customers are voicing high demand for Sequent's WinServer family  of symmetric multiprocessing systems running Windows NT.   Clearly, Windows NT is a great applications server for business- critical solutions."

In addition, Microsoft and Digital Equipment expect to have  the Alpha AXP version of Windows NT in customer hands within 60  days.

A Significant Achievement

"Windows NT is probably one the largest software projects  ever undertaken," said Paul Maritz, senior vice president of the  systems division at Microsoft.  "In a four-and-a-half-year  timeframe, the Windows NT team has delivered a new operating  system with a new graphics and window management system and a new  networking system (client and server) - all sharing a common,  integrated, open and certifiably secure design - on three  architectures that are available as both uniprocessor and  multiprocessor.  To have done this within nine months of the  original schedule without having to sacrifice any original design  goals, is an incredible achievement.  I am confident that as more  people become familiar with Windows NT, it will be seen as a  robust, well-structured foundation that can be expanded upon for  many years to come."

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

206-882-8080,  fax: 206-93MSFAX


!%@::A Directory of E-Mail Addressing
O'REILLY PUBLISHES DIRECTORY TO OVER 180 ELECTRONIC NETWORKS

July 27, 1993 -- SEBASTOPOL, CA -- The Internet has been loosely defined as a "network of computer networks." To solve the problem of addressing electronic mail to over 180 of the distant and independent networks comprising the Internet, O'Reilly & Associates has published a completely updated, lower priced editon of !%@::A Directory of Electronic Mail Addressing & Networks, by Donnalyn Frey and Rick Adams.

It includes a general introduction to the concept of electronic mail (e-mail) addressing, followed by a detailed reference section that describes how to address e-mail messages so that they can be sent from one network to another. It also includes a directory of hundreds of second- and third-level domains so users can address individual sites within a network. In addition to updating information about networks listed in previous editions, this new edition provides information about new networks in the Commonwealth of Independent States, Eastern Europe, Africa, and South America.

Topics covered include:

* An introduction to e-mail for beginners

* For over 180 networks: a description of the network, the

  services it provides, the format of the e-mail addresses

  needed to reach users on that network

* Index to networks by network name, country or area name,

  and country code

* Index to second and third level domains and many sites

  within each network

!%@::A Directory of Electronic Mail Addressing & Networks is a useful resource for many users. They include system administrators who field e-mail questions, researchers who want to get in touch with researchers at other universities, international marketers, conference attendees with many contacts, or any of the other millions of people who communicate electronically.

Donnalyn Frey and Rick Adams are pioneers in the development of electronic mail. She runs Frey Communications, a technical writing company, and he is president and founder of UUNET Technologies, Inc.

O"Reilly & Associates is recognized worldwide for its definitive books on the Internet, UNIX and The X Window System. Working closely with developers of new technologies, O'Reilly's editors are "computer people" who use the software they write about. The company's planning and review cycles link together authors, computer vendors, and technical experts throughout the industry in a creative collaboration that mirrors the strengths of the "open systems" philosophy itself.

!%@::A Directory of Electronic Mail Addressing & Networks

by Donnalyn Frey and Rick Adams

Third Edition, 458 pages, ISBN 1-56592-031-7

Price: $24.95

Toll-free order number: 800/998-9938

O'Reilly & Associates Inc

103 Morris St, Suite A, Sebastopol, CA 95472

800-998-9938,  707-829-0515,  fax 707-829-0104


Home Medical Advisor V3.0 Released July 1993
New Version Released July 1993!

Home Medical Advisor V3.0 for DOS   --  $87.50

Home Medical Advisor V3.0 for Windows 3.1  --  $87.50

Doctor Schueler's Home Medical Advisor is the only medical expert system which allows nonprofessionals to analyze symptons, make diagnoses, and access updated medical information without the need for a CD-ROM drive. Browse through the Home Medical Advisor's seven data modules packaged with the latest information on diseases, injuries, poisionings, medical diagnostic tests, drug information (side effects and drug interactions), nutrition information, vitamins, fitness, and special diets. Its like having seven programs in one! The Home Medical Advisor's extensive data libraries are updated with new information every 8-10 months by an editorial staff of over 40 physician specialists. This application uses the latest in hypertext technology and scan/search features. Over 8,000 hypertext links allow the user to rapidly access related medical information and make important connections between symptoms, diseases, and their treatments. The 1,500 term on-line medical glossary gives instant definitions for over 20,000 color-coded words embedded in the data files. The sympton file uses a question/answer format that generates hundreds of medical illustrations to assist the user in pinpointing a diganosis. There is simply no other medical application on the market today that can compete with the Home Medical Advisor for ease-of-use, sophistication, scope of medical information, or price. Over 40,000 packages sold to date!

HMA Features:

1. HMA can make a diagnosis... not just a "look up system"

2. Supports VGA color graphics

3. Use of over 8,000 hypertext links makes important

   associations between symptoms, diseases, and their

   treatments.

4. On-line 1,500 word Medical Glossary and 20,000 color

   coded glossary words embedded in the database.

5. Covers both pediatric and adult medicine.

6. Does not require CD-ROM.

7. Large scope of information "seven programs in one"

   (drug info, household poision info, etc.)

8. Staff of over 40 physician specialists -- contribute

   the latest medical information.

9. Updates every 8-10 months -- at low cost to registered

   users.

10. HMA has the largest drug information database with

    over 2,400 drugs listed.

11. Index of over 500 of most common household poisionings

    and "what to do."

Home Medical Advisor Requirements:

MS-DOS requries VGA and 512K RAM

Windows 3.1 version requires VGA and 4MB RAM

Home Medical Advisor for CD-ROM......

Slated for Christmas 1993 release

This multimedia application will support hundreds of "real life" digitized medical graphics, in addition to an on-line medical glossary, hypertext, and full motion digitized video. The HMA for CD-ROM will also include Your Medical Records and inteRact bundled into this special multimedia release of the Home Medical Advisor.

Pixel Perfect Inc

10460 S. Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, FL 32952

407-777-5353,    fax 407-777-0323


Miscellaneous July News Tidbits
From various sources come the following news tips....

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

Updated AVI, accelerated playback, bug-cleansed drivers and other goodies await ATI graphics and video card users who get the new 2.1 driver release. It also includes an updated Media Player that lets Windows 3.1 deal with Video for Windows applications. Contact ATI Technologies, Thornhill, ONT, CANADA; 416-882-2600, fax  416-882-2620

New SupraFAXModem production during August and September will build in MNP10 support. By the end of Spetember, all new units should be able to take advantage of this cellular-optimized features, all with no increase in price. Contact: Supra Corp, Vancouver, WA; 206-750-9600,  fax 206-750-7406

If you thought the original Multimedia Works from Lenel Systems was great, wait until you see the improvements in the new version 1.5 to start shipping in August. The presentation module now multitasks, the user interface gets slicker and easier to follow, and they're adding JPEG support. Contact Lenel Systems International, Pittsford, NY; 716-248-9720,  fax 716-248-9185

Devont will be publishing an API for Einstein Mail/Windows. It provides a high-level macro language to accomplish anything from forms routing to workflow applications to automated mail rerouting. There's also direct access to phone message and E-mail message engines, Netware functions, etc. Screen design, forms design and plenty more besides. Expected first shipments in September at a $199 per site price. Contact Devont Software, Conroe, TX; 409-321-3220,  fax: 409-321-3109

Best Power Technology is submitting patent applications on new stabilizing circuits that assure compatibility between all types of UPS topologies and new power factor correction (PFC) power supplies, per Europe's IEC 555. Today's PCs use switched supplies; IEC 555 requires PFC by the end of 1995 -- to reduce harmonics in building wiring -- and will likely become a world standard. PFC is trouble for a UPS using output voltage sensing for regulation, but Best's new stabilizer circuit fixes that. Contact Best Power Technology Inc, Necedah, WI; 608-565-7200, fax 608-565-2929

Fun programs on the new FracTools CD-ROM coming soom from Bourbaki and Quanta Press. FracShow makes slide shows, with lots of snazzy effects. CD-Look is a thumbnail viewer/browser album. FTPuzzle is an all-straight-edge Jigsaw puzzle. Catalog makes grids of multiple images; it can save them, so you can make roll-your-own Win-wallpaper. There's an FTSaver screen saver, FracTrac spiral scribbler and more. Contact Bourbake Inc, Boise, ID; 208-342-5849, 208-342-5823

Karen and Egil Juliussen's 1993 Computer Industry Almanac ($45 soft, $55 hard) is the sixth edition of this invaluable resource. There are entries on 2,900 companies, 930 publications, 240 market research firms, 380 associations and user groups, 260 agencies, 70 book publishers, 50 testing companies, 250 conferences and 7,300 people, plus rankings, awards and more. Contact Computer Industry Almanac Inc, Lake Tahoe, NV; 702-831-2288,  fax 702-831-8610


Your Medical Records
July 6, 1993 -- Pixel Perfect, Inc. publishers of the popular title Dr. Schueler's Home Medical Advisor recently announced the release of a new home health software package Your Medical Records. This product allows you to database 14 different types of medical histories that can be printed in a physician-style format or as a wallet-sized report. "We have had a tremendous interest in a package that allows consumers to keep their own medical records in a more organized and easily retrievable format," says Stephen J. Scheuler, M.D., president of Pixel Perfect, Inc.

Your Medical Records (for Windows) has a totally menu driven interface that eliminates cumbersome keypunch data entry. A complete detailed medical history can be generated in only a few minutes with this special physician-designed system. In addition, Your Medical Records can generaet custom medical-legal documents like "the living will" and "durable power of attorney." Housed within YMR is InteRact, the first consumer-friendly drug interaction analyzer. InteRact can report over 250,000 drug interactions including interactions with alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, foods and vitamins.

Franklin Electronic Publishers, Inc. has entered into an agreement with Pixel Perfect, Inc. to bring the Home Medical Advisor and Your Medical Records to their very popular hand-held Digital Book System. Schueler says, "they (Franklin) took one look at our software and they had to have it."

The Home Medical Advisor and Your Medical Records software are available through Baker and Taylor, Kenfil Distribution, Software Resource, and D&H Distributors. The Home Medical Advisor can be found at numerous dealers including Computer City, Electronics Boutique, and more recently, CompuUSA stores.

Pixel Perfect Inc

10460 S. Tropical Trail, Merritt Island, FL 32952

407-777-5353,    fax 407-777-0323


LabVIEW Picture Control Toolkit
New Picture Control Toolkit Now Available for Adding Specialized Graphics to LabVIEW Front Panels

July 21, 1993 -- Austin, TX - National Instruments today announced the new LabVIEW Picture Control TookKit, a versatile graphics add-on package for creating custom front panel displays with LabVIEW. With this toolkit, LabVIEW users can build new front panel displays such as specialized bar graphs, polar plots, Smith charts, and display and even animate custom objects such as robot arms, test equipment, units under test (UUTs), and more.

The Picture control in the toolkit displays picture images described by graphics instructions stored as a compact series of drawing commands. The toolkit also has a Picture VI Library that implements a set of drawing functions that take an existing picture as an input and add new drawing instructions to create more elaborate pictures. Users pass the picture data type just like any other LabVIEW data type, and the Picture control provides quick and easy picture display.

Price, Availability and for More Information

The LabVIEW Picture Control Toolkit will be available in September for $295.

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


LabVIEW Test Executive Toolkit
New LabVIEW Test Executive Toolkit Available for Automated Test Program Sequencing

July 21, 1993 -- Austin, TX - National Instruments announced today a new powerful, flexible package for automated sequencing of test programs in LabVIEW. The LabVIEW Test Executive Toolkit comes equipped with a full-function Test Executive that can incorporate a suite of test virtual instruments (VIs) along with a Sequence Editor for developing test sequences with dependencies.

The Test Executive VI runs saved or created test sequences, prompting the operator for information, displaying the list of tests and current results of each, and posting pass/fail banners. After execution, users can view the logged results and generate an ASCII file that includes the name and description of the sequence, the date and time that testing was completed, the operator name, and the results of testing for each unit under test (UUT).

By invoking the Sequence Editor VI, users set the specifications for a test sequence such as test dependencies, stop on error, and loop on error. Users also use the Sequence Editor for debugging by setting force pass, force fail, or skip on given tests.

The toolkit delivers the Test Executive and Sequence Editor in block diagram source code with high-level modules, making it easy to modify them to meet different application needs.

Price, Availability, and for More Information

The LabVIEW Test Executive Toolkit will be available in September for $495.

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


SoftFind Specialty Software Locator
INTRODUCING " SOFTFIND " ... do it yourself quick software search "

Specialty PC software for the 90's "

July 22, 1993 -- With this introduction of the new SoftFind Catalog Disks ComputerMasters, a specialty software search firm, now enables businesses to quickly & easily identify their own specific software needs.

SoftFind is the only consistently updated software catalog on diskettes addressing the needs of businesses for hard to find specialty software. By keeping current with the addition of hundreds of titles monthly, SoftFind allows businesses to find industry specific affordable solutions.

Selections are available from hundreds of titles within each industry, not available in stores or catalogs.

SOFTFIND DISKS cover more than 300 different businesses and within each main business category are dozens of subheading selections, allowing businesses to zero in for the first time on software relevance... programs they can afford.

For example the RETAIL category offers over 150 different industry specific software titles such as Lumberyard, Jeweler Gift Shop, Hardware Store, Fashion Boutique, Consignment Shop, etc... often with several subheadings within these... all at different prices ranging from S 250 to $ 5,000.

SoftFind is a complete and friendly search system written in Foxpro with a monthly updated data base, allowing one to search by Industry Type ( Furniture ) or Key Word ( Plastic ) or by Application ( Job Costing ). Descriptions and prices can be viewed or printed. Program demos are available at $25.

The SoftFind Program is an automatic install priced at only $25. It may be ordered on credit cards at 407 478 4810.

World Class Software Inc

245 Elwa Place, West Palm Beach, FL 33405

(407) 585-7354,   FAX (407) 547-1703


MDBS IV Novell Netware Loadable Module
mdbs Ships MDBS IV Novell Netware Loadable Module (NLM)

Lafayette, IN - July 23, 1993 - Micro Data Base Systems, Inc. (mdbs) is shipping its MDBS IV Novell NetWare Loadable Module (NLM).

MDBS IV is a high performance client/server database engine designed for developers of distributed or commercial applications. MDBS n offers unmatched performance for systems ranging from single-user DOS to larger networks. An active data dictionary supports highly complex, real-world data models. Other features include ANSI SQL and transaction processing.

"The fastest client/server database on the market has moved to the most powerful enterprise-wide computing environment. This combination shatters technological barriers to downsizing, making it possible to downsize applications which could not have been considered until now. mdbs continues to lead the growing client/server market and the MDBS IV NLM symbolizes our commitment to supply client/server technology for all major downsizing computing platforms" states Kevin Castleberry, President of Development Tools at (mdbs).

Novell NLM

Robert Shoop, Director of Database Products for Novell, comments, "We are pleased to have Micro Data Base Systems, Inc. join the growing number of software developers who are implementing their database servers as NetWare Loadable Modules (NLMs). Our customers will benefit from having the high performance solution of the MDBS IV database engine and the NetWare platform."

Solomon Software

Solomon Software, whose Accounting Series software is considered an industry standard, is one of a group of companies to benefit from the MDBS IV NLM. Gary Harpst, President and Chief Executive Officer of Solomon Software, says, "The NLM has brought significant improvements in performance to our installed base of networked accounting sites and will provide substantial opportunities for businesses that are downsizing to NetWare 386 LANs for their accounting needs. Incorporating this NLM is a significant event in the evolution of Solomon III's client/server architecture which we pioneered in the micro-accounting software market over six years ago."

Technical Details

The MDBS IV database server operates on the Novell file server, thus eliminating the need for a separate database server machine. Database I/O is done through standard I/O calls and takes advantage of Novell's superior disk operating system and caching. The MDBS IV NLM version features a speed improvement of up to 300% over the MDBS IV DOS version. The database server is fully 32-bit compiled, multi-threaded, and will run in as little as 512K RAM.

Sales Information

MDBS IV and M/4 for Windows, a high performance DBMS specifically for Information  Windows, are available directly from mdbs. For further information regarding MDBS IV, contact mdbs at (800) 445-mdbs or (317) 447-1122.

Founded in 1979, Micro Data Base Systems, Inc. is a pioneer in data base management software. mdbs client/server products include MDBS IV, an entity-relationship architecture database management system and Object/L an object-oriented development environment. Other development tools available from mdbs include KnowledgeMan, an object-based relational DBMS, and GURU, a comprehensive expert systems environment.

Micro Data Base Systems Inc (mdbs)

Two Executive Dr, PO Box 6089, Lafayette, IN 47903-6089

317-447-1122,  800-445-MDBS,   fax 317-448-6428


PC EXPO Breaks Exhibitor/Attendance Records
PC EXPO BREAKS EXHIBITOR AND ATTENDANCE RECORDS

Eleventh Annual Trade Show Sets Records - 800 Exhibitors and 98,643 Attendees Registered; More Than 350 New Products Displayed

(Fort Lee, NJ, July 22) -- PC EXPO in New York buzzed with new technology and excitement as the number of exhibitors and attendees set records for the show, which took place June 29-July 1. More than 350 new products were announced or previewed to attendees, who jammed the aisles at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

Eight hundred exhibitors spanned three levels of the Javits Center during PC EXPO, showcasing computer hardware, software and services to 98,643 attendees during the show. Product showcases on the PC EXPO exhibit floor highlighted Windows applications, multimedia, OS/2, portable computing and Windows NT.

Exhibitors showcasing new technology included: Adobe, Aldus, Adaptec, Apple Computer, AST Research, Borland, Compaq, Egghead Software, HewlettPackard, IBM, Intel, Lotus, Microsoft, NEC Technologies, Panasonic, Sharp, Sony, Toshiba, WordPerfect and Zenith Data Systems.

Bill Gates, chairman and CEO of Microsoft, opened the show by delivering the PC EXPO keynote address to a crowd of thousands that packed the Special Events Hall and an overflow room at the Javits Center. His address, "New Technology for the Information Age," included a preview of new products from Microsoft.

The PC EXPO Plenary Speech, "The IBM PC Company: On the Comeback Trail," consisted of an overview of the new directions IBM is taking in providing ease-of-use computing. The speech was delivered by Robert Corrigan, the company's president, to an audience that packed the Special Events Hall. Mr. Corrigan previewed new technology under development by the IBM PC Company, including pen-based PCs and speech recognition.

Energy-efficient PCs were on display at the Energy Star Pavilion, under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Con Edison. The new "green PCs" from companies such as Apple, Compaq, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Intel, Tandy, Toshiba, and others, reduce PC energy consumption by 50 percent.

The show network for PC EXPO -- the ShowNet System, offered PC EXPO attendees an opportunity to access on-line show information, and to send messages electronically to other show attendees and the outside world.

The PC EXPO Seminar Series featured the largest conference program ever, with 77 sessions divided into seven tracks, including a new Multimedia Track. Eight PC EXPO Tutorials -- intensive, all-day seminars that drew strong attendance -- were held on Monday, June 28.

The Twelfth Annual PC EXPO will return June 28-30, 1994, to the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City.

PC EXPO is produced by Bruno Blenheim Inc. (BBI), a trade show management company based in Fort Lee, NJ. In addition to PC EXPO, BBI produces UNIX EXPO, PC EXPO in Chicago, and will produce NetWorld Dallas, Oct. 5-7, at the Dallas Convention Center. In 1994, Blenheim's networking shows will be produced as Networks Export in Boston, Dallas, and San Francisco.

BBI is a part of Blenheim Group PLC, a worldwide producer of conferences and exhibitions, with more than 250 events, including more than 40 events serving the information technology (I.T.) industry.

Bruno Blenheim Inc

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

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


MS-DOS 5/6 COMMAND SUMMARY

July 26, 1993 -- Specialized Systems Consultants, Inc. (SSC) announces publication of the MS-DOS 5/6 Command Summary for Microsoft's MS-DOS Version 5 and Version 6. This reference is the newest addition to SSC's line of pocket-sized command summaries and tutorials for UNIX, MS-DOS, and the C programming language.

A 3-page section on MS-DOS basics covers the questions beginners most often ask at pc computer stores: how to format a disk, what is the hierarchical file system, how to list files and look at files.

The MS-DOS 5/6 Command Summary provides an alphabetical listing of commands for MS-DOS Commands. Each command is listed with a description, syntax and options. The MS-DOS Command Summary also lists the system configuration and debugging commands, control characters, common function calls, function keys, wildcards and abbreviations.

This handy 32-page booklet simplifies the search for the correct command when working with MS-DOS. ISBN: 0-916151-64-6. Available August 20, 1993.

Specialized Systems Consultants, Inc.

P.O. Box 55549, Seattle, WA 98155

(206) FOR-UNIX or (206) 527-3385 Fax: (206) 527-2806

Email: sales@ssc.com


Voice Processing Tech for Supra Modems
Supra Slates Superior Voice Processing Technology for August Release

ALBANY, OR, JULY, 1993--Combining their expertise in high-end faxmodem hardware and software, Supra Corporation and Cypress Research Corporation have designed an integrated communications solution that allows users to experience full-featured voice, fax, and data communications in the Macintosh environment. The product is scheduled to ship in late August, and will be exhibited August 3-6 at MacWorld Expo booth 130 Bayside Expo Center.

The voice option will be available to owners of Supra's V.32bis and V.32 faxmodem products as a $99 firmware and software upgrade. The firmware will add Supra Voice Processing (SVP) capability to existing SupraFAXmodems. The software, Supra Answering Machine, is developed with Cypress Phone Pro technology and provides sophisticated digital answering machine capabilities.

An integrated voice, fax, and data product will be available in September. Named the Desktop Communicator, it will include SVP, the Supra Answering Machine software, and an audio jack for easy recording and playback of voice messages. Pricing has not been established for this product.

"The combined power of Supra's hardware and Cypress' software will let users add the equivalent of a sophisticated digital answering machine to most Mac systems," said John Wiley, President of Supra Corporation. "This gives business and home users unprecedented communications power."

Paul Hurley, President and CIO at Cypress added, "This joint venture brings together a unique set of features that will help define the market for integrated communication toolkit also showcases several new technologies developed to allow advanced Mac-based communications."

Benefits of Voice Integration

Supra's unique firmware design offers robust support for recognition of touch-tone signals. "This provides a convenient way to record, play, and remotely access messages. Because the firmware is specifically designed for voice messaging, the quality of voice recordings will be better than what can be expected on faxmodem systems that have added voice messaging as an "afterthought.

The Supra Answering Machine software is both easy to use and powerfill. It includes a telephone tool for Apple Telephone Manager which enables addition of future voice applications. Supra and Cypress are also collaborating on additional voice products such as a sophisticated voice messaging system which will be named Supra Voice Mail. Users may develop their own fully-compatible customized voice applications (such as fax on demand) using the Cypress Phone Pro programming language.

About Supra Corporation and Cypress Research

Supra Corporation, based in Albany, Oregon, has provided personal computer users with high-quality, low cost peripherals since 1985. Supra's modems are popular for providing excellent value in a reliable modem, and have been recommended by sources from John C. Dvorak to the Boston Computer Society.

Cypress Research Corporation, headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, develops and markets fax server and telephony software products for the Macintosh.

Supra Corp, 7101 Supra Dr SW, Albany, OR 97321

503-967-2400;  fax: 503-967-2401


Bear Rock Bar Code Fonts for Windows & OS/2
Bear Rock Technologies Releases New Bar Code Fonts For Windows and OS/2

Makes Bar Code Technology Easily Accessible To All

(July 26, 1993) - PrintBar Bar Code Fonts, a selection of bar code fonts compatible with Windows and OS/2, is now shipping from Bear Rock Technologies Corporation.

PrintBar for Windows and OS/2 version 1.0 supports Code 39, UPC, EAN, ISBN, Bookland EAN, Interleaved 2 of 5, POSTNET and FIM bar codes. Printer support includes all printers compatible with Windows 3.1 or OS/2 2.1, including dot matrix, laser and high resolution imagesetters.

"Today, the production of bar codes has become a necessity for most businesses large and small," says President, Ken Futernick. "And because an increasing number of people are using Windows and OS/2, Bear Rock created PrintBar to offer them the capability of adding bar codes to their Windows and OS/2 applications. N

Traditionally, bar code fonts were used for inventory tracking and retail. Today, bar code font users are crossing every business profile. Graphic artists, secretaries, accountants, clerks, executives, production and manufacturing employees and many others are being asked to put bar codes on something. These people don't "specialize" in producing bar codes, but it's become increasingly important for them to have the ability to do so.

PrintBar 1.0 is easy to use; simply highlight the numbers/letters to be converted into a bar code, select the chosen bar code font from the pull-down fonts menu and a bitmap image of the bar code will appear on the screen. PrintBar automatically translates the text and numbers into a bar code. It works with the most popular page layout and graphic programs, word processors, database managers, spreadsheets and more.

Fonts are packaged by bar code symbology family. Users can choose from four packages, each containing PostScript and TrueType fonts in many sizes:

UPC, EAN, ISBN, Bookland       $179

EAN Code 39                     179

Interleaved 2 of 5              179

POSTNET and FIM                  79

Hardware and system requirements are Microsoft Windows version 3.1 or higher, or OS/2 version 2.1 or higher. Also required are an IBM compatible personal computer, printer, monochrome or color monitor, and mouse. Adobe Type Manager required for use with PostScript fonts only.

Bear Rock Technologies Corporation specializes in the design and manufacture of high-quality bar code printing and reading products. Bear Rock markets a full line of bar code printing software for both the PC and Macintosh.

Bear Rock Technologies Corp.

4140 Mother Lode Dr, Suite 100

Shingle Springs, CA 95682-8038

(800) 232-7625 or (916) 672-0244; Fax: (916) 672-1103.


Microsoft Scenes Windows Screen Savers
Microsoft Introduces Microsoft Scenes

Three Colorful, New Screen Saver Collections for Windows Offering Photographic Images as well as Custom Pictures

REDMOND, Wash.--July 26, 1993--Microsoft Corporation today announced Microsoft g' Scenes, a new line of screen saver products starting with three unique collections of photographic images from the worlds of nature, art and outer space.

Microsoft Scenes Sierra Club Collection contains beautiful nature and wilderness scenes of national parks, pristine nature regions and other outdoor settings. Microsoft Scenes Impressionists Collection contains masterpiece paintings from world-renowned artists such as Claude Monet and Paul Cezanne. Microsoft Scenes Outer Space Collection contains stunning images of the universe, including the moon, earth and Halley's comet. Accompanying the 48 full-color photographic images in each collection is information provided by experts in their designated fields and a variety of special effects for transitioning between the various scenes.

In addition to the enhancing images already available in the products, users have the opportunity to personalize their workstations by taking advantage of an enclosed offer to convert up to three personal photographs into Microsoft Scenes images through Genigraphics Corporation, a leading supplier of visual communications. Bit-mapped images from the Microsoft Windows operating system can also be added to Scenes by using Scenes Wizards. Scenes is compatible with Berkeley Systems' After Dark 2.0 and other screen saver programs for Windows version 3.1.

"Scenes brings a new dimension to the screen saver category by making it easy for users to visually personalize their PCs," said Steve Shaiman, general manager of advanced product development at Microsoft. "Now you can customize your computer desktop with three collections of ever-changing, high-quality photographs and paintings that you've always wanted but have never had the room in your office to display. With Microsoft Scenes, you'll even be able to display your entire family photo album on your computer screen."

Information related to each image is provided by experts in natural history, art history and astronomy and can be easily accessed by the user. Microsoft Scenes Sierra Club Collection includes passages from the John Muir Library published by Sierra Club Books. Microsoft Scenes Impressionists Collection contains information by Alicia Craig Faxon, professor of art history and chairperson of the department of art and music at Simmons College in Boston. Microsoft Scenes Outer Space Collection includes descriptions of each image that are written by Damond Benningfield, writer and producer for "Star Date," the award-winning daily radio program that covers astronomy and space exploration.

Microsoft Scenes is scheduled to be available within 60 days through authorized distributors and resellers at a suggested retail price of $29.95 per title. With the purchase of Microsoft Scenes Sierra Club Collection, a portion of the proceeds goes to support the Sierra Club's efforts in preserving and protecting the environment. An introductory rate membership for the Sierra Club is also offered. Recycled packaging is used on all three products.

Microsoft Scenes requires the Microsoft Windows operating system version 3.1 or higher and 2MB 386SX or higher with VGA display (256 colors required for optimal display).

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

206-882-8080,  fax: 206-93MSFAX


Artisoft Expands Technical Support Service
ARTISOFT EXPANDS ITS TECHNICAL SUPPORT SERVICE

New Telephone Line Provides Priority Technical Support For Endusers & Resellers

(TUCSON, AZ - July 26, 1993) - Artisoft, Inc. announced today that it has implemented a new telephone service that provides priority technical support. Using this new phone line, 900/555-TECH (555-8324), for a cost of $2.50 per minute, Artisoft endusers and resellers in the domestic United States can receive a quicker response to their request for technical assistance on a designated group of Artisoft products. This line is in addition to Artisoft's current free, unlimited telephone technical support line (602/670-7000), and its on-line BBS (602/884-8648), facsimile (602/884-8665), CompuServe (GO ARTISOFT) and AppleLink (ARTISOFT.TS) services to resellers and endusers.

Core Artisoft networking products that will be serviced by this new priority line include the LANtastic Local Area Network (DOS and Windows), the LANtastic/AFM network, the Central Station connectivity processor, the Articom modem-sharing software and the LANtastic Z network. A dedicated group of technical support representatives will be servicing this new priority line between the hours of 7 a.m. and 5 p.m., Mountain Standard Time.

Technical support for Artisoft's Connectivity Series and other networking products such as the LANtastic for TCP/IP connectivity software, the LANtastic for Macintosh connectivity system, the LANtastic for NetWare software and the ArtiScribe NetMedia document and dictation system will continue to be supported - as will all Artisoft products - through the current free, unlimited technical support line.

"In keeping with Artisoft's commitment to supporting all users, we have provided this priority line that will give prompt technical assistance during time-critical situations," commented Dave Hallmen, Artisoft's Vice President of Sales & Marketing. "Now customers can choose between using this new priority line or receiving free, unlimited technical support with our main line - either way they have easy access to the quality support they need."

In an ongoing effort to broaden the accessibility of its technical support, Artisoft has recently joined the AppleLink service. Last year, Artisoft enhanced its technical support system by adding a state-of-the-art automatic call distribution system to disperse calls quickly to specific product support teams that service specialized areas, improving its on-line BBS and adding a dedicated forum to the CompuServe service. Also in 1992, Artisoft introduced the LANual Information Service, a subscription program that is updated quarterly and allows resellers and endusers to instantly retrieve technical information about Artisoft products.

Artisoft develops and manufactures a full line of innovative, cost-effective network communication solutions including the award-winning LANtastic Local Area Network. Recognized as the leader in peer-to-peer networking for DOS and Windows environments, the LANtastic network also offers multiplatform connectivity solutions for NetWare, TCP/IP and Macintosh systems. It allows up to 500 users on one network to connect and share information and peripheral devices such as printers, hard drives and CD-ROMs. Artisoft maintains nine international offices and distributes the LANtastic network and its other connectivity products in over 70 countries worldwide.

Artisoft, Inc. at 2202 N. Forbes Blvd., Tucson, AZ 85745

Sales 800/233-5564, Corporate 602/670-7100

Fax 602/670-7101


Asymetrix COMPEL Shines in Swr Digest Report
Asymetrix's Compel Shines in Software Digest Report

Receives a "Recommended Buy" in Presentation Graphics Programs Evaluation; 1.0a Upgrade and PC Manufacturer Agreement Announced

BELLEVUE, Wash.--July 28, 1993--Compel, the interactive business presentation package that Asymetrix Corporation introduced in March 1993, received a "Recommended Buy" in a recent Software Digest comparison of presentation graphics programs for the Windows operating system. In particular, the report praises the product's strong multimedia support, extensive screen show features and excellent templates. Asymetrix has sold more than 15,000 copies of Compel since its introduction.

In the words of the Software Digest report, "[Compel] will appeal to users with a strong interest in on-screen presentations, easy portability and multimedia effects." The report added, "Even when not using the program's multimedia technology, extensive transition effects and high-quality templates help make striking on-screen presentations." (Volume 10, Number 6, June 1993).

"Compel was rated especially strong in the areas of quality, ease of learning and ease of use," said Bert Kolde, president of Asymetrix. "Our goal was to offer customers a product that lets them easily create interactive business presentations with multimedia data, including video, animation and sound. The Software Digest results prove that we achieved that goal, and with a product that has only been on the market for a short three months."

Presenters as varied as an oil company consultant and an educator working with deaf students have adopted Compel during its first three months on the market. Those customers praise Compel for its ease of use, multimedia capabilities and abundance of templates. Compel retails for $295.

Software Digest is published by NSTL (National Software Testing Laboratories), Inc., a McGraw-Hill company. NSTL, an independent organization, is the sole provider of comprehensive testing services for Software Digest and offers a full range of software and hardware testing services to private clients on an independent, contract basis.

Version 1.0a Addresses Customer Requests

Today Asymetrix also announced Compel version 1.0a. The main enhancements in version 1.0a are improved performance in both speed and hardcopy printing quality. New features, all based on customer feedback, include support for the Genigraphics GraphicLink software that allows the easy production of high-quality 35mm slides and new templates optimized for display on LCD overhead projection systems. In addition, more than 50 new clip art objects as well as sample Compel presentations on CD-ROM are available in version 1.0a.

Registered users can receive the upgrade for a shipping and handling charge. For more information, call Asymetrix at (800) 448-6543.

Building on a strong relationship with Turtle Beach Systems, Asymetrix also announced that Compel will be part of Turtle Beach's full multimedia upgrade kits, which include its highly acclaimed MultiSound sound card. "The upgrade kits combine the best multimedia software and hardware products available," said Jeff Klinedenst, vice president of marketing at Turtle Beach Systems. "Compel is the best product of its kind in the industry."

Asymetrix Corporation is a privately held software company based in Bellevue, Washington, with more than 200 employees worldwide. Asymetrix is the leading provider of Windows-based multimedia tools and applications, and is committed to a mission of bringing pioneering productivity to all levels of Windows users with affordable, easy-to-use software.

Asymetrix Corp

110-110th Ave NE, Ste 700, Bellevue, WA 98004

206-462-0501,  fax 206-455-3071


MicroBiz Announces POS Computer System
MICROBIZ ANNOUNCES NEW POINT-OF-SALE SYSTEM

SPRING VALLEY -- July 26, 1993 -- MicroBiz Corporation, a leading supplier of point-of-sale software and hardware solutions for small businesses, announced today a new state-of-the-art POS system, The MicroBiz MicroStation, designed and manufactured by IBM. Ideal for automating any small business, this new cutting edge POS system is fully loaded with all the POS functions built right in.

"We're delighted to have reached this agreement with IBM positioning us to remain in front of the competition by offering this premiere product that allows small businesses to take advantage of automation," said Craig Aberle, president of MicroBiz Corporation.

"It's our hope that the synchronicity of this integration between best of breed solutions, IBM hardware and MicroBiz software, will drive each company to new sales levels," said William Roche, IBM manufacturing and development marketing program manager.

This new POS system is compact yet efficient, offering everything needed to operate a business, and best of all it's affordable adding a new cost-effective solution to the POS family. The MicroBiz MicroStation includes printer, nine-inch monochrome monitor, cash drawer and more. The total system design supports up to 16 MB of memory, designed especially to fit the needs of any business owner in any retail environment.

System Benefits

"This system gives small businesses the benefit of the top-of-the-line POS equipment available with IBM service and support in addition to MicroBiz service and support," said Ken Phelan, MicroBiz vice president of research and development.

With this new POS system, MicroBiz can offer users the best price/performance available. Phelan said, "Small business users can automate in one easy step and begin using the system right away backed up by the best service and support in the industry."

The MicroBiz MicroStation combines the simplicity and functionality of a cash register with the logical power of the computer and the ability to process and analyze information at the point-of-sale. It saves countless hours of manual tallying, eliminates handwritten notes and performs complex calculations, compiles customer information for developing mailing lists and manages inventory control.

The Business Controller turns any PC into a super-smart retail management system that increases profits significantly. It improves the overall operation of a business, especially inventory control and checkout. It allows you to register sales, print fully itemized invoices or receipts, receive and track inventory, and print sales reports including reorder reports.

Outstanding Features

The MicroBiz MicroStation has a number of outstanding features that come standard with the value based system including a 386 SX 25MHz Processor; a dust proof, spill resistant keyboard; a VGA tilting and rotating display with a non-glare screen; a 3 station Printer that prints at 150 characters per second and 38 characters per line also features a journal lock and journal signature window with separate journal spool; two cash drawers and a bar-code scanner; a smaller footprint taking up less counter space and a built-in Ethernet interface and credit card reader housed in the keyboard.

State-of-the-Art Design

The MicroBiz MicroStation is designed to make the process of automating small business much easier, while providing the resources, power and functionality required by the most demanding retail business operation.

POS Systems are at the forefront as more and more businesses require systems that combine cash register functions, inventory control, and computer functions all in one. This system saves time, increases productivity and saves the business owner money. It comes with its own software and hardware -- all in one attractive configuration.

Priced at only $ 3,995, the MicroBiz MicroStation is available through participating Microbiz dealers and distributors nationwide or through the MicroBiz Catalog. Extended warranty plans, service and support are available.

Options are also available including keyports, customer pole display, bar code printing and/or scanning, multi-user capability and full accounting software integration.

MicroBiz Corporation is the leading supplier of computer hardware and software in the PC-based point-of-sale industry with over 100,000 installations worldwide. The Company continues to set trends for the industry with product features like point and select menus, automatic credit card verification and the latest in bar code scanning technology. MicroBiz has developed a national and international dealer network of over 4,000 strong and its products are sold in over 100 countries.

MicroBiz Corp

500 Airport Executive Park, Spring Valley, NY 10977

Sales: 800-637-8268,  Dealers/Consultants: 800-SELL-POS

Mail: 914-425-9500,  Tech: 914-425-3789,  fax: 914-425-4598

BBS: 914-425-6440,  Fax on demand: 914-426-6064