                             SHARWARE.TXT
                             ------------


(The following is courtesy of Paul Mayer, author of GRAB Plus, and is
added to this documentation with his permission.  His writings have
been modified slightly to suit this application.  I do not claim
copyright to Mr. Mayer's writings.)


DEFINITION OF SHAREWARE:
------------------------
   Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software before
buying it.  If you try a Shareware program and continue using it, you
are expected to register.  Individual programs differ on details --
some request registration while others require it, some specify a
maximum trial period.  With registration, you get anything from the
simple right to continue using the software to an updated program with
printed manual.
   Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial software, and
the copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific excep-
tions as stated below.  Shareware authors are accomplished program-
mers, just like commercial authors, and the programs are of comparable
quality.  (In both cases, there are good programs and bad ones!)  The
main difference is in the method of distribution.  The author specifi-
cally grants the right to copy and distribute the software, either to
all and sundry or to a specific group.  For example, some authors
require written permission before a commercial disk vendor may copy
their Shareware.
   Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software.  You
should find software that suits your needs and pocketbook, whether
it's commercial or Shareware.  The Shareware system makes fitting your
needs easier, because you can try before you buy.  And because the
overhead is low, prices are low also.  Shareware has the ultimate
money-back guarantee -- if you don't use the product, you don't pay
for it.
