Re: [ql-users] QL is 21
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Robert Newson [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Malcolm Cadman wrote: ... Marvin, the paranoid android said something like ... a brain the size of planet and all they ask me to do is to park cars . OK, OK, but where are you? Reverse primary thrust Marvin, that's what theysay to me, open airlock number three Marvin, Marvin can you pick up that piece of paper? Can I pick up that piece of paper? Here I am, brain the size of a planet... Yeah, yeah... But I'm quite used to being humiliated. I can even go ans stick my head in a bucket of water it you like. Yeah...Marvin... ... What's he saying Zaphod? Oh nothing. He just phoned up to wash his head at us. Has that satisfied you? Will you please tell us where you are? I'm in the car park. In the _car_ park? What are you doing there? Parking cars, what else does one do in... Yes ... the original still sounds funny ... :-) I'm sure that those that want to program, do. And those that don't, don't. Well, at least that is where the QL at 21 is still OK ... it is still fun to program, and people even know how. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] uqlx for mac
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], =?windows-1253?B?UGhvZWJ1cyBSLiBEb2tvcyAo1u/f4u/yINEuIM30/Orv8ik=?= [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Ôçí Thu, 06 Oct 2005 15:38:29 -0400,ï(ç) Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] Ýãñáøå: In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Michael Grunditz [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hi I am trying to get uqlx for macos x to work but all I get is: Bus error I have X started and it is running on 10.4. No doubt Phoebus will pop up with an answer ... Cannot :-) I did not do the port myself, James Weatherly did. I will contact him and ask him :-) Well ... at least you popped up ... so the answer to the query may be out there ... -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QL is 21
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Timothy Swenson [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Fri, 7 Oct 2005 20:49:37 +0100, Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Do modern computer users do any programming any more ? Or is it all web pages, video clips and MP3 downloads ... ? Given that the computer has pretty much become an appliance (sold along side TV, Washers, etc), I'm sure most computer users treat it that way. The same way that most of us treat our cars, ie. just a way to get around. I'm sure the early horseless carraige hobbyists were not too happy when the car gained mass appeal. Indeed ... the way of the world. The power computers that we have now we the 'stuff of dreams' when the QL was launched. And they have become just another domestic appliance ... :-) Marvin, the paranoid android said something like ... a brain the size of planet and all they ask me to do is to park cars . I'm sure that those that want to program, do. And those that don't, don't. Well, at least that is where the QL at 21 is still OK ... it is still fun to program, and people even know how. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QL is 21
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], John Gilpin [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Follow the following SuperBASIC programme to the BEST Weekend you've experienced in a long time: 10HAVE YOU HEARD??? (OK, so it's rude to shout but I wanted EVERYONE to hear me!) 20QL IS 21 and so is QUANTA 25If you've not heard THEN GOTO 10: Else: GOTO 30 30The committee of QUANTA invites YOU ALL to a Workshop and Celebratory Dinner to mark this unique occasion. Clip Nice advert John ... although I guess only those people brought up on the syntax of 21 years ago would recognise it ... :-) Do modern computer users do any programming any more ? Or is it all web pages, video clips and MP3 downloads ... ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] a question about QDT
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], James Hunkins [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes HI Guys, I must have some character checking that is blocking the extended characters such as these. Will look into it and fix it on an upcoming update. Thanks for reporting it. QDT work is currently ongoing after a long hiatus from it due to my move and new job. But putting in the hours on the drag and drop copy/ move feature at this time. Stay tuned... Jim Thanks, Jim. Good to know that progress is being made. Looking forward to the drag and drop feature being implemented, as that came out about top in the 'wish list' ... :-) On Oct 5, 2005, at 4:20 AM, François Van Emelen wrote: Malcolm Cadman schreef: In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], François Van Emelen [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hi QDT-users, Why can't I use characters such as 'éèêà..' to name or rename folders and icon texts? Is this a feature (couldn't find anything about it in the manual) or is it a bug? You mean that you wish to use accented characters and they are not being accepted ? Yes I haven't tried this myself. Perhaps you should email the author directly. In addition I am, for one, looking forward to an update to QDT. So am I. Thank you for your reply. François Van Emelen -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] uqlx for mac
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Michael Grunditz [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hi I am trying to get uqlx for macos x to work but all I get is: Bus error I have X started and it is running on 10.4. No doubt Phoebus will pop up with an answer ... -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] a question about QDT
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Fabrizio Diversi [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Me too, specially for drag and drop feature and later desktop management. I use Qdt happily on all my smsqe systems. Yes, it is already a treat to use ... I've already given up everything else in its favour. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] a question about QDT
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], François Van Emelen [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hi QDT-users, Why can't I use characters such as 'éèêà..' to name or rename folders and icon texts? Is this a feature (couldn't find anything about it in the manual) or is it a bug? You mean that you wish to use accented characters and they are not being accepted ? I haven't tried this myself. Perhaps you should email the author directly. In addition I am, for one, looking forward to an update to QDT. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Looking for QL books
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hi, I'm looking to buy 2 QL books: The Sinclair QDOS Companion by Andrew Pennell, and QL Advanced User Guide By Adrian Dickens If someone would like to help, please write me a private email. Many thanks, Peter Hi Peter, We have probably got both of the titles that you are looking for at the London Quanta Group. I will hope to be able to get in to the venue where they are stored at sometime in August. Are you attending the joint Byfleet/London Show in September 2005 ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Madrid QL trip
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Tony Firshman [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Well Jochen, Marcel and I are in Madrid, and are having a mini-QL meeting later today in a local bar. We have a free hotel internet connection, with Jochen linked to a wired local network and Marcel and I linked to Jochen via bluetooth! I am using Skype for free calls to the UK. Isn't technology wonderful (8-)# Technology is only wonderful when you both have it, and it is working ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QPC2/Windows
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Yes, Launchpad is good too. I have been reviewer and user of it since its 'launch' ... :-) ...and I leave such puns to Malcolm ;-) It comes with lots and lots of pre-defined icons for all your favourite programs. So the high colour version will look even better ... no doubt Dilwyn is hammering away with Easy Pointer4 as we speak. -- Malcolm Cadman Sort of...last couple of weeks has seen NO progress whatsoever due to pressures of work. But it will happen, although do bear in mind the original Launchpad took about 2 years! (though as I actually use it myself, I do want it to happen for my own use as much as anything else!). The nice thing is, I can update it almost as I go along so it ends up under continuous test here each time new menus are linked and cxompiled. Such is the ease of producing apps with Easyptr! All to the good, then. Looking forward to progress. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Software behaving badly
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], David Tubbs [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes At 13:53 22/05/2005 +0100, you wrote: Now for suggestions of software behaving badly ... that is valued / well used software in need of enhancement or remedial work for now and the future. My idea was with a view to a table of what WORKs where, particularly all those version numbers, and if extra memory is required, or some underlying toolkit. Yes, that would be there as well. Which would identify any software that users had a particular interest in, and which may then lead to enhancement or remedial work. Parked somewhere on the web it could save any number of lengthy, and repeated responses Easy enough ... when the hard work of the list is done. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Software behaving badly
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], David Tubbs [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Malcolm Cadman, A suggestion save below as a csv Software,Ver nnn,HARDWARE - OS,, ,,QL128,Cumana,CST,Medic,GoldCard,SupGoldCd,Qubide,Q40,Q60 ,Qlay,Qlay2k,QPC,QPC2,Qlem,uQLx Utilities TK2_ext PtrGen WMAN RAMPRT XTRAS etc Progs Quill Abacus Editor etc Good suggestion. Now for suggestions of software behaving badly ... that is valued / well used software in need of enhancement or remedial work for now and the future. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QPC2/Windows
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes 1. Has anyone tried QDT? What do they think of it? Does it allow drag and drop or any other file handling functions like Windows Explorer does? 2. If QDT doesn't have a file handler, are there other graphic front-end file handlers that can be used in QPC2? 3. I vaguely remember QPTR - am I right that this just has functions/handlers rather than being a full windowing suite? 4. Is Easy Pointer 4 anything to do with the above? I'd like to have a snazzy interface rather than typing everything in. This will be important, I feel, if QPC/QXL/QL are to live for longer. I'll be interested in the reply, it may cause me to part with some money for newer QL programs! You could also have a look at Launchpad. Not as colourful or snazzy as QDT, but a lot easier than typing in all those EXEC commands in BASIC! Demo version on my website, high colour version in preparation. Yes, Launchpad is good too. I have been reviewer and user of it since its 'launch' ... :-) It comes with lots and lots of pre-defined icons for all your favourite programs. So the high colour version will look even better ... no doubt Dilwyn is hammering away with Easy Pointer4 as we speak. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] New email address and address
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], =?iso-8859-7?B?1u/f4u/yINEuIM30/Orv8iAoUGhvZWJ1cyBSLiBEb2tvcyk=?= [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Thu, 19 May 2005 16:15:35 -0400, Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes -Original Message- From: Dilwyn Jones [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] dbranaghATcmsperipheralsDOTcom I'm one of the ones who used the O2 address. I thought the other one was a work email address. And that's fine, but as I said I only check it very infrequently. For a speedy response use the the work email. Dilwyn, can you put this change in the next QL Today? OK. The other option is to actually ban Darren from ever changing his email address again ... :-) I am pretty sure that if Dilwyn would call Freddy he will be able to express it in a licence somewhere... (as in the excerpt below) Article III^2356632*128+6 I. The user shall be prohibited from reselling the software except when Mr. Branagh changes his email address. In such case the user shall be able to sell the software, provided he books a plane to Mayo Co., forces Mr. Branagh at gunpoint to revert to his old address and contractually binds him to refrain from EVER drinking Guinness again (or drink it icy cold in any case ;-) ) He ... he ... brilliant, Phoebus ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Digital Precision Software
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Stuart Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Thanks for the nice welcome message, also thanks to all who contributed with the interesting chatter. I agree about the relative value of the DP suite - it was hard to justify the cost then, and harder now, as I said I'm after them for nostalgic reasons. Sadly, the PC/Offife suite is so good these days it's hard to find a real need for a QL - hoping that won't annoy the hell out of those who cling to the machine as if it was new today. I loved my QL, but the world moved on. Indeed, the world has moved on, and so has the QL world too ... check on my site - http://www.mcad.demon.co.uk/lquan.htm ... for the start of links to all sorts of developments that have or are currently taking place. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Software behaving badly
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Thanks Bill. It seems there is interest in this project. I'm stunned :-)) I really want to go with the logo idea, which means 100. Years from now, when the QL is probably no more, it will be a nice thing to have. Umm ... novelty ...souvenir, and now a future antique collectors item ... it just can't fail ... :-) Looking forward to it. However, just to discuss the logo image a little further. Obviously as Sinclair no longer has an interest in the QL, wouldn't it be better to do a new 2005 edition ? Reflecting more of the present and the future. That is make use of one of the new logos designed for the modern QL scene, some of which published in QL Today, and I believe are on a web site somewhere. Also if Quanta sponsor it then a 'Quanta Edition 2005' could also be included. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Digital Precision Software
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Robert Newson [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I also bought them when it was offered (having never really bought any s/ware, it really expanded my collection). From the agreement: (10) Remember, by purchasing this collection you have agreed to its licence conditions. Note that it is for your personal use only (you can make a reasonable number of security backups of it or its contents - again, all for your own use only), and that you agree not to resell, or otherwise pass on, whether for reward or otherwise, any part (except and UNZIP) or all of it, or of any Digital Precision Ltd software already possessed by you, to _any_ third party, in any circumstances. Breaches of this will be dealt with severely. This means, among other things, that if you are disposing of part or all of your QL system you may NOT pass on this collection (or any part of it, except ZIP and UNZIP) with it. Umm ... interesting licence condition ...Breaches of this will be dealt with severely ... yet by whom exactly ? As DP has gone, the MD and software authors have all had their money ... -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Software behaving badly
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], David Tubbs [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes At 19:12 17/05/2005 +0100, Malcolm Cadman wrote: Then there are the compatibility issues with older software running on newer hardware or emulators. What do people want to see happen ? A little while ago Dilwyn gave a comprehensive list of Pointer Env requirements, time consuming, and how many times might such info be given ? My thoughts were why not a chart in spreadsheet form to show what works where and what does not ? I would suggest a column for each possible hardware and OS possibility. Col's for bare QL128, with TK2, then various floppy i/f's (I expect there are difff's between types), then HDD addons, then the newer hardware and various emulators. Yes, a good suggestion. Can you give a simple text example with some software that you use ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] New email address and address
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes -Original Message- From: Dilwyn Jones [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] dbranaghATcmsperipheralsDOTcom I'm one of the ones who used the O2 address. I thought the other one was a work email address. And that's fine, but as I said I only check it very infrequently. For a speedy response use the the work email. Dilwyn, can you put this change in the next QL Today? OK. The other option is to actually ban Darren from ever changing his email address again ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Software behaving badly
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes -Original Message- From: David Tubbs [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: 19 May 2005 15:14 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [ql-users] Software behaving badly There are atleast two very different users, those who have been using all along and those who would try to pick it up again after a long break. The latter is not as easy as it might seem, in the early days one added to noes system gradually, building slowly, very much harder to put everything together in a lump and remember how to write an efficient boot file. Which was why I made a suggestion under Darren Brannah's New Product Subject (100% ignored) for an emulator and full working environment on a memory card or stick. A complete Newbie could get started right away with a collection of PD software and sample progs. snip We will probably settle on buying the 128Mb sticks - they are now the smallest we do, which only a handful of 64Mb ones remaining. I think a 70-80Mb QXL.WIN file or similar would be enough on these, and this would leave ample room for other storage uses for the owner. To be honest though, the fear I have is how many we'd sell. I would need to commit to buying at least 50, but more likely 100, to get decent pricing on the sticks. Typical price when available shouldn't exceed 15 pounds. Will we sell that many? It all sounds promising, Darren. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Software behaving badly
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Well, that's a probable 4 - only 96 to go :-)) Plus another one ... :-) Besides this will have novelty and souvenir appeal too. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
[ql-users] Software behaving badly
I think it is time that we had a debate about what software we want for the original QL specification OS and its descendants, and what we want for the SMSQ OS successor and even beyond ... There seems to be only 2 licence types of software for the QL - software the costs and software that is free. Shareware, or the like, doesn't really figure very much. Then there are the compatibility issues with older software running on newer hardware or emulators. What do people want to see happen ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] www.kilgus.net updated
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Timothy Swenson [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Tue, 3 May 2005 20:46:37 +0100, Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: National Minimum Wage is pretty normal wages unless you happen to work for national organisations paying national pay rates (public bodies basically)! National pay rates? Man, not in the US. We have folks in some parts of the US working for the my company, doing basically the same job at half of what I make. Some areas have a very high cost of living (SF, LA, etc) and some areas have a very low cost of living (rural America). Never heard of such a thing a National pay rates. Boy, does that sound foreign. :-) Indeed ... but then the UK does have national pay agreements, because of national union membership for example. However, as the size of the whole of the UK is less than many of the individual 'states' in the US, perhaps not so surprising ... :-) Yet, then again, given the history of the UK, right down to very local individuality ... like ... regions, counties, cities, towns, villages, etc ... it is surprisingly that we do agree on anything ... :-) The sign of mature democracy. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Internet on the QL
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I have only sympathy for the software itself if it has to stand being handled by Dilwyn. Hey maybe we should start a new O/S 'Dilwyndows' I will throw this open to suggestions as to features. Lets see how creative you can be. Well 1. Only runs in MODE 4 colours - Green and red mainly, as per welsh flag. 2. Plays whats new pussycat? by Tom Jones while loading. 3. Has a choice of sheep or leeks as a wallpaper theme. 4. Has an LWPM (large Welshman protection mode) in which the keyboard and mouse don't work (only way to prevent Dil doing any damage) 5. Has dual processor/motherboard functionality - one intel/AMD and one 68xxx, so if Dil buggers up the Intel part, he can switch to 68xxx mode. 6. Has Welsh language Icons and help files (by default) 7. Has in-built, anti-virus protection called know-leeks 1.0 8. Supports a new graphic file format, similar to GIF and TIFF, called CarDIFF. 9. The error sound is a sheep going baa How that for starters? Hilarious, Darren, you obviously know your Dilwyn ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] www.kilgus.net updated
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Marcel Kilgus [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I'd just like to inform you that a somewhat bigger update has happened to www.kilgu.net. Umm ... does this finally reveal that Marcel is really a Klingon, of Star Trek fame ... :-) ? Hence the large brain power . QPC: New SMSQ/E, new manuals, new demo hard disc(!) read to check out, more utility software QPCPrint: New QPCPrint section including free demo to check out SMSQ/E: new version of sprite converter that can produce solid sprites (sprite without a mask, i.e. just a pattern). This format is drawn more rapidly and produces much smaller files, good for big images within menus and the like or even images in general. Only supported from SMSQ/E 3.10 onwards (or more specifically PTR CON driver 2.02). Have fun. Any feedback, especially regarding the demo hard disc, is appreciated. Thanks for the info and work, I will check out the site this weekend. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] unrar
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Derek Stewart [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I did port unrar v2.41 a while back... well it was when I lived in Newcastle had quite a large BBS system in the North East and drank weak Geordie beer. Interesting. Probably worth reviving the work. I still have the code somewhere, but never really tried to expand on it. It is not as well developed as WINRAR, which seems to handle anything including ISO9660 image files. WinRAR is shareware . you have 40 days use with the software before continuing use requiring a registration. I only used it for the Phoebus RAR files, and it worked a treat. Easy to use. The graphic icons have a very slick, glossy look ... very nice. Dilwyn Jones wrote: 1. I have purchased it ;-) 2. For some reasons the zip archives were broken 3. It compresses 20-30% better that specific archive and it's even better in not-too-full qxl.win files but if that is the consensus, then I will replace all archives :-) Ffibys RAR is great, but QLers are too used to ZIP. Even though someone (might have been Derek Stewart possibly?) did port a Unrar program to QDOS. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Irish Show
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], extdgl42 [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes The recent(?) profile of Linus Torvalds in _Wired_ claimed that Linus' first love was not a woman but a Sinclair QL. So there you are, material for a love song. Umm ... QL Love ... by Roy Wood, could be very catchy ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hilary is fine, and still in that HUGE Castle, all on his own. Still beavering away with his Gold Card QL - I call on him when I visit my parents. I think hes on email still - Hilaryokelly AT hotmail DOT com He has written some amazing QL programs, and I'm sick nagging him to write manuals for them and release them. He has a brilliant yachting simulator which is amazingly accurate (does all the calculations and he updated it regularly, you can go sailing anywhere fro your living room and all the beacons etc are correct) Not to mention some rather addictive puzzle games and stuff. He also wrote an enigma code machine emulator for the QL which is totally authentic - he even contacted Bletchley Park in the UK for info to get the coding right. Keep nagging him, Darren. We need interesting new applications to enliven the QL software scene. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] was... Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], jms1 [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes clip Perhaps we may now understand why it is difficult for somebody to try the QL. What can we do to improve compatability so newcomers can try without help? Yes, interesting proposition. We have to take a good look at QDOS, the original OS, and the software for it; and then see what simple or more complicated work is needed to make the bridge with SMSQ and SMSQ/E. From the users point of view. Following on from this all the hardware add-ons and upgrades need to be looked at, and simple explanations of suitable paths to take to maintain or enhance performance. If this can be documented and collated then we can just point users to the signposts laid out, and the user can make their own decisions. Dilwyn Jones already has some quite excellent material on his website that describes the history and development of the QL. Roy Wood has begun a series in QL Today which is describing the where with all of the various set ups and paths that QL development has followed. So in the end some users may choose just to stay with QDOS and get the best benefit from it, others may choose to bridge across between QDOS and SMSQ benefiting from both. Others may choose to be entirely SMSQ/E, and beyond. Whatever ... a commonality will be established. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], =?windows-1253?B?UGhvZWJ1cyBSLiBEb2tvcyAo1u/f4u/yINEuIM30/Orv8ik=?= [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Wed, 27 Apr 2005 14:38:18 -0400, Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Reminds me, I really must organise another Irish Show, maybe in Galway for a change. Would that be an Irish Show or a show held in Ireland ... :-) Who cares... if there's plenty of Guinness it won't make a difference anyway ;-) Well, haven't yet made it to one of Darren's Shows ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Internet on the QL
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Arnold Clarke [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I may have not given the right info. When I type in ex win1_lx_lynxenter I get the window displayed and in the window is a message saying Your Terminal Type is Unknown ... Enter a Terminal Type I enter VT-52 or VT100 but it just drops out You need to run the boot file that Phoebus supplied on page 26 of QL Today - Vol 9 Issue 6 March/April 2005. The environment variables are set up in the boot file to get around that, and lynx is launched from the boot file itself. Depending what you system is like either run the boot independently or incorporate it in to you own boot file. I have saved it as 'boot_lx', so I run it from there. If you wish I can email you my 'boot_lx' ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Internet on the QL
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], P Witte [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Öïßâïò Ñ. Íôüêïò writes: BTW: Due to the birth of my son I realise that I haven't uploaded the Congratulations!! appropriate files (as promised in the article) to my webserver. These will be put there later tonight for everyone to download. If you download these qxl.win files you can ensure that the programs therein are fully tested and guaranteed to work with all three emulators: QPC II v.3.30 and later, QemuLator v.2.3.2 and greater (Expanded registration ONLY) and uQLx (*NIX and Mac editions but NOT Windows). They also have a good set of gnu tools and other unix ported commands as well as a fully set up Shell so you can unixify your QDOS experience (I refer you to Tim Swenson's article on a previous QLT... check Dilwyn's site for the exact volume/issue) That would be nice, yes. Would you also be able to put up a non-RARified version of win32uQLx? Afterall, zip is the current standard archiving method on win32.. Although, when you have downloaded the free RAR software, it does have a very nice and easy to use interface ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Internet on the QL
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], =?windows-1253?B?UGhvZWJ1cyBSLiBEb2tvcyAo1u/f4u/yINEuIM30/Orv8ik=?= [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Tue, 26 Apr 2005 07:59:39 -0400, Arnold Clarke [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi Phoebus, Just a thanks to you for your excellent first article on internet access for the QL in QL Today magazine - Volume 9, Issue 6, March/April 2005. Thank you :-) I am glad that it is of some use to users :-) Actually the second part... native hardware etc. is even more exciting. I am actually running Arachne and nettamer on my Q40 under PC Conqueror SE and it is pretty amazing... (Put PCs to work for QLs is ALWAYS fun wouldn't you agree?) No problem ... we all need stimulating articles to read and act upon. Looking forward to then next part ... it does sound amazing ... :-) You tempted me in to doing the downloads of the software ported from UNIX by Jonathan Hudson : QL-Lynx, QL-FTP, QPOP3 and QDOS Emailer. All available at : http://www.daria.co.uk With your instructions, lynx worked first time ! ... and nice to see it making use of the full screen with SMSQ/E and QPC. I thought it was fun too... Plus it gave me an excuse for a plug to Tony's website which I find always very elegant in its simplicity... not to mention that it looks great in QL colours and fonts ;-) (Tony you can send me that cheque in the usual address) He ... he ... obviously I tried my own web site first ... :-) I had previously had it working in an earlier version in a QDOS window of 512x256. The good thing and a testament to Jonathan's port's quality is that it works virtually everywhere :-) Yes, I never doubt anything from Jonathan. I remember having a good chat with him at QL2000, and whilst discussing everything, he never stopped programming and compiling on his portable ... :-) I hope to find time to explore the FTP and email instructions more fully later in the week. Looking forward to the continuation in the next issue too. I note that lynx was written for UNIX by Seung-Hong Oh, in 1996, whom I can assume was a student at the time. That would be fetchpop actually... I am currently working on a different mail client that is not as restricted as fetchpop (Mind you fetchpop is the exact same software -with minor alterations- that is used with soQL). Unfortunately fetchpop has severe limitations... plus it is a real pain in the rear to use, however for the time being is one of two choices ;-) Ah glad to hear of an improvement already. As for lynx, there are newer versions but I haven't had time to explore newest compilations. I know that one or two people have ported more recent versions of lynx to the ql but I am not even sure these support the https: protocol either. I will have to look into it. OK. Just that we may as well be as up to date as possible. He mentions as upgraded version being available in one of the texts, which presumably did get completed, as this is nearly ten years ago. I haven't seen one. I've been working on a completely different one that will be compatible with all major QL internet solutions including qlwIP. Unfortunately work on freeQDOS has a greater priority. As release milestone 1 approaches (freeQDOS can now boot but not do much else on a Q40 and Q60) I will be able to spend more time on that. Umm ... very interesting. One of the things the QL port would benefit from is a nice 'front end' to integrate this as a suite of applications. Also a menu driven way of providing the details of the users system and preferences. Exactly. I believe you will feel more at home therefore with QPOP3 which is graphical. With minor alterations, it can also get the system palette etc. to look up to date compared with modern PE software... Yes exactly ... it is just the convenience of a graphical GUI. Using text editors and changing lines beginning with a # sign, is not everyone's taste I am sure. Yes, but you only have to do it once :-) But that's also a challenge for good guys like Dilwyn to sink his teeth in :-) I am sure he can write a configuration program for that sort of stuff (Yeah, sure throw the ball to poor Dilwyn's court. -Ed.) I know, no particular problem for myself with # sign coding lines. I had lots of experience of with early RISCOS internet software, before that became graphically integrated. Yet we as QL users need user friendliness now. I am really looking forward to QDT exploiting all of this potential. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Internet on the QL
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Using text editors and changing lines beginning with a # sign, is not everyone's taste I am sure. Yes, but you only have to do it once :-) But that's also a challenge for good guys like Dilwyn to sink his teeth in :-) I am sure he can write a configuration program for that sort of stuff (Yeah, sure throw the ball to poor Dilwyn's court. -Ed.) Someone asking me to tamper with Unixy or Windows-style software? I can just see Roy Wood gritting his teeth in fear now ;-) (Too busy anyway) Er ... umm ... :-) ... just be content with coding a graphical front end for the lynx suite, using the new EasyPtr of course ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Irish Show
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes So, when is a good time for a Show? Mid-Summer? Or do we leave it until Sept/Oct? Not September or October ... we ( Surrey and London Groups ) are holding a joint Show at Byfleet in September ... to which you are coming are aren't you ? ... And October is QL2005. So I guess that you are already booked over here ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Idle thoughts
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On the other hand there are lots of freeware products available too. Tell me about that one! Every now and then I have a flurry of updating my PD Library catalogue and I realise there's more and more free QL software out there than I can ever find time to catalogue and add to the library, let alone test them all! Steve Johnson used to say as much SJPD days, but there's one awful lot more out there now than even in SJPD days! Also in hardware there are lots of second-hand items available. Overall it is a good time to be a user. You only have to take Darren's advice and visit a QL show to see that. There was a wealth of older stuff on sale at the Quanta AGM which I hadn't seen for years. The pace of new developments at the moment does mean you have to make the effort to keep up to date or just follow your particular line of interest (mine being collecting PD software and writing compiled basic programs written with Easyptr). As you say, a good time to be involved and a QL user! Yes, I seem to have something new to grapple with almost every month ... which can only be good news ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] PE and software
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes (changed subject line to reflect change in thread) Malcolm Cadman wrote: Does anyone have a list of 'old programs' written for QDOS that do not run under the PE ? If there is a known list, then some action may taken. -- Malcolm Cadman John Gregory made a similar remark at the Quanta AGM when he was asked about library programs which only exist in MDV versions in the library, or programs which only run on one ROM version. His reply implied that a general trawl of the library for such software was probably not viable, but if anyone could bring specific examples to his attention he'd see what could be done. By and large, MDV programs can be tweaked for FLP usage with one of these options: 1. Stuffing it through Digital Precision's Transfer Utility or some such program of which there are some available on the PD software scene. 2. Adding an FLP_USE mdv command in its boot program on systems which support FLP_USE (i.e. virtually all disk d=systems except very, very early ones). 3. Using DEV_USE or the SUB equivalent (which also helps with transferring such software to run from hard disk). I feel another article coming onin fact I think it highly likely we could run articles on subjects like this, pointer environment basics, ramdisks and so on at least once a year since the questions do seem to arise very often even though the subjects have appeared many times in print. Yes, I do remember doing (1) above, many years ago now, although I had forgotten about it. Method (2) FLP_USE was always the simplest method of running software that had 'coded in' reference to mdv's. Since SMSQ/E and QPC, I can't recall of any software that I now use that has a problem as such. Although many other people may have programs that they would wish to be brought up to date or modified in use. So, a list of programs as targets for modifying would be a good thing. Then if there is demand someone can work on them. If permission is granted by original authors. Dave Gilham has recently made Perfection operate in a full screen mode, rather than the QL 512x256 window size. Hopefully that will be available soon for everyone to enjoy the benefit of. The Exchange suite of the original PSION 4, would also benefit from modifications such as accessing larger screens. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Reminds me, I really must organise another Irish Show, maybe in Galway for a change. Would that be an Irish Show or a show held in Ireland ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Internet on the QL
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Arnold Clarke [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hi Arnold, Have you copied the 'qdos' file in to the directory 'win1_lx_terminfo_' ? The boot file by Phoebus expects to find it there, that's all, for the terminal emulation. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] was... Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes In a message dated 26/04/05 01:33:54 GMT Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Remember that i'm still using Qdos. Has Turbo been kept compatible with that, or does it only support SBasic and SMSQ/E? If it is not compatible what is the most recent version of turbo that is compatible with my system? Whenever a new version of Turbo is produced I test it on an AH rom with trump card as well as Q60 with SMSQE. I have not done that yet with v4g21 since there may be errors still to be found and reported. However, when v4.21 is finally produced it will have to work on my AH rom. Yes, thanks to this development work on Turbo it is incorporating extra functionality. It is compatible with QDOS / SuperBasic and SMSQ/E / Sbasic, so the generic term has now become Sbasic, for convenience. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Software Prices.
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], P Witte [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes John Sadler writes: As Dilwyn Jones says in his article in Qtoady that TurboPtr is more flexible than EasyPtr, and the group members feel that software should be paid for, George I wondered whether the group members did not use it because it was free and they would be happier paying £60 to George because then they felt the program was well worth using and the author was interested in maintaining it. I wouldnt be surprised if that were the case ;) Free programs are all well and good, but we have now begun to expect all programs to be free and that may not be good for the continuation of the QL community. Linux is in a different league, with universities and research intstitutions supplying much of the quality free stuff: The authors of those programs are at least fully funded and doing their thing during their working hours. I dont think that is the case for QL programmers.. Yes, it is the student workforce, at work ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Celebration restarter Pack
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], SMSQ - Jochen Merz [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hi Malcolm, Alternatively could there now be another 'offer' in time for September 2005 ? heheee, although there might have been a hint in one of the many previous mails, all I say is: watch the ads ;-) OK ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] was... Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], P Witte [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes The general advice seems to be to decide if you want maximum compatibility with older QL software, stick with QDOS, or if you want the benefits of the new facilities available under SMSQ/E you will need to go down that route. But only if you want maximum compatibility. Most old programs will run, or can be made to run, under PE. It is often not PE which is the problem with older programs, rather their reliance on microdrives, or a reliance on fixed locations for the screen or systems variables (ie poor programming practises). Also upping the speed can render some old programs incompatible. Apart from those emulators that are designed to be hardware compatible with the black box, one of the most versatile platforms to run old software, IMHO, is QPC2. But it has the added advantage of running the bleeding edge stuff too. Does anyone have a list of 'old programs' written for QDOS that do not run under the PE ? If there is a known list, then some action may taken. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
[ql-users] Email and web usage
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Jeremy Taffel [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes It is the default behaviour in Outlook Express to send both a text and HTML file, unless you actually find the setting for text only. I get lots of people who work in local government sending email like that. Usually either because they just don't know, or they are not allowed access to change any settings. I don't work in local government, just the UKs largest defence contractor. All the IT is outsourced. The contract specifies the levels of support received. It also has the conflicitng requirements of standardising profiles, despite the fact that some of us use laptops, and others don't. Net result, no-one can customise Windows to his needs. Every time I log on, for example, the calculator has reverted to the simple form, despite the fact that I always need the scientific functions. AND, email defaults to html, even tho we are only allowed to send each other plain text! If I'm going to need to run an application other than office, (mathcad, for example) when out of the office, I have to start the program at work , to grab a licence off the server, and then put it into suspend, because no-one is allowed his own licence. Everything runs so slowly because almost all the files come over the network, instead of being stored on the local hard drive, and although I work in Stevenage, I can't fill in my timesheet if a server in Maidstone goes down! I still do most of my serious computing from home! Yes, it seems to be a never_ending_story with Windows ... although we now need it for our QL Emulators :-) At least everyone on this list knows that it is text only ( also no attachments ), etc ... Which keeps us all content. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
[ql-users] Celebration restarter Pack
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], SMSQ - Jochen Merz [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Just to be clear ... will this starter pack still be valid for the forthcoming Byfleet show in September 2005 ? Hi Malcolm, Why still?? It was advertised in - QL Today - Quanta (at least I sent an ad) - real Mailshot - emailshot for QL 2004 - my website that this Celebration restarter Pack offer started somewhere in September last year and ended end of January this year, if I remember correctly. Ah ... so it has ended in January 2005 . With the recent discussion around some people looking for an upgrade to their QL system, it would be useful. Alternatively could there now be another 'offer' in time for September 2005 ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Jeremy Taffel [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Malcolm Cadman wrote: clip Jeremy, with all your computer interests I am sure that you will find it even more fun now than the period that you are recalling. Yes, there is a cost involved for the commercial programs, yet there are also lots of free software and tools too. To get involved in the new things you will need SMSQ/E rather than QDOS, which is £32. Then you have options to build on that as you wish. Remember you can still use QDOS as well, so the QDOS 'past' is not lost to you. QPAC2 Pointer Environment - mouse pointer, menus, file handler, etc, is £42 I have the pointer environment. But its very old - I bought it from Care Electronics when they had a shop in Watford; perhaps in 1988. I'm not sure that it was sold as QPAC2 though. Files include hot_rext, ptr_gen, wman, hotkey, ramprt Would it still work under SMSQ/E, or would I need to upgrade? Yes, that is the one. It may be in need of an upgrade though. QPC2 is £65 to start, yet then the upgrades seem to come along frequently and are mostly free. QLAY and QEmulator are alternatives as free emulators. Can you run SMSQ/E under them? I don't know whether either of them run on QDOS or can run with SMSQ/E. I am not a user of either, no doubt someone else will have the answer ... clip Good luck with what whatever you choose to do. I am sure that you will get inspired, and maybe even write some new software yourself ? I did write a few non-work related programs; all in superbasic. One that displayed random words in a random colour from a user-definable vocabulary against a contrasting background. One that used the same vocabulary to construct grammatically correct (but often nonsensical) random sentences; building it up one word at a time until the sentence is complete, then wiping the screen for the next sentence. Bilingual versions of the word programme English followed by Hebrew, English only, or Hebrew only. I also did an arithmetic tester which included a multiplication table tester. It meant that when my kids started school they were about 3 years ahead of the class in reading and arithmetic. I had two additional projects that I never completed;. A bridge playing program that used true AI, and a hebrew word processor. Perhaps one day I'll find the time to complete them Well, as they say, the world is 'your oyster' ... with programming. With SBASIC a compiler is useful, of which there are 2 - Turbo which has been further developed, and Qliberator. They give programs a bit more speed, and protect the source code from being seen by others. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Jeremy Taffel [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Tony Firshman wrote: I repeat - my emails are text only. If there is html there, that is added by your mailer. Nothing to do with me. Tony Tis true! I use thunderbird. It allows you to inspect thesource; and it is plain text. However under normal display it converts text strings that start with http: into a URL. Similarly, it converts all the and at the start of the line into pretty formatted coloured sidebars. There really is no reason why anyone should need to send email in html. Ah ... that again :-) It is the default behaviour in Outlook Express to send both a text and HTML file, unless you actually find the setting for text only. I get lots of people who work in local government sending email like that. Usually either because they just don't know, or they are not allowed access to change any settings. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], gwicks [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes - Original Message - From: Tony Firshman To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, April 23, 2005 8:15 PM Subject: Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product. On Sat, 23 Apr 2005 at 00:53:37, Jeremy Taffel wrote: His announcement was on the JMS .gif image linked to from the emailshot. Also worth noting that the starter pack offer (234 Euros worth of software for 99.90 Euros) was advertised in the snailshot flier for Byfleet, Just to be clear ... will this starter pack still be valid for the forthcoming Byfleet show in September 2005 ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Jeremy Taffel [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes My position is quite simple really. I use computers for soving engineering problems, and find myself using windows (98,XP, 2000), Linux, Solaris., but the OS is less important to me than the tools. clip So, to answer your question, I haven't put anything in for the past 12 years, clip So, I'm stuck in the QDOS past, and am curious as to whether all the enhancements overcome the limitations that I ran into back then. No doubt if I were to buy QPC2, it would be rapidly followed by QDT, as I'd need a decent desktop; But, I've got so many projects on the go, QPC2 really isn't my highest priority. clip Jeremy, with all your computer interests I am sure that you will find it even more fun now than the period that you are recalling. Yes, there is a cost involved for the commercial programs, yet there are also lots of free software and tools too. To get involved in the new things you will need SMSQ/E rather than QDOS, which is £32. Then you have options to build on that as you wish. Remember you can still use QDOS as well, so the QDOS 'past' is not lost to you. QPAC2 Pointer Environment - mouse pointer, menus, file handler, etc, is £42. QPC2 is £65 to start, yet then the upgrades seem to come along frequently and are mostly free. QLAY and QEmulator are alternatives as free emulators. If you get really enthused than you will be into QDT which is £32. Roy Wood is giving a £10 discount on SMSQ/E if you buy both QDT and SMSQ/E at present. Good luck with what whatever you choose to do. I am sure that you will get inspired, and maybe even write some new software yourself ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], James Hunkins [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes For myself, I started QDT as an interesting project. Plus I really enjoy the people involved in the community. To be honest, I would have abandoned the project quite a while ago if I was only doing it for the money. Probably before it even started. On the other hand, while the money will never, ever compensate for the time or energy, it does show me that people respect the work and are interested in it. If no one was willing to pay what I consider to be a very underpriced cost for QDT, I would read it as no one appreciated the work being done. Therefore, it would not happen and further development would definitely not happen. So, while the money isn't everything, obviously, it definitely is something. Knowing the effort that goes into different QL software projects, I don't know of any that I would consider not to be fare value. And most are very good deals already. I am an 'early adopter' of QDT, and although it is still at its early stages of implementation, it does show what excellence can now be achieved with all the new developments for the QL. Note : QDT does not run on 'older' systems, as it is designed to make use of the best that is currently available. I now hope that Jim's work will encourage software writers to flex their muscles again and produce all those interesting applications that we all need. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Roy wood [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], David Tubbs [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes SNIP Would you buy the buggy version, even if it were £20 less? The fix is usually to get the latest version. So someone was happy to sell Buggy versions for top dollar ! No software of any complexity is without bugs. QPC2's bugs are usually fixed before any get sold and those that slip through are fixed very quickly with free updates. Older versions are not buggy as suggested - just not as refined and developed as the current ones. Some newer programs require keywords that have been especially built into SMSQ/E to make them work. QPC2 and SMSQ/E are inter-linked and some versions will not work with the wrong SMSQ/E file. The whole thing is a continuous line of sustained development and very hard to backtrack on. In the end the users benefit from this. Most upgrades are free and the ones which are charged for are major re-workings of the system. Much of this is not evident to the users except that it works better and does more things. Marcel does not even own a trumpet let alone blow it. Yes, this is all transparent to the user. As well as more features in the upgrades, the system and the emulator always get faster and slicker too ( which is an added 'hidden' bonus ). I made the plunge in buying SMSQ/E and then QPC some years ago now ... and I have had lots and lots of benefits from it. We have had this debate many many times ... there comes a time with any computer system when the user has to make a significant investment upgrade ... in either hardware or software. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes So, all I was saying is that I think that there could be a market beyond the one that seemingly (according to other emails) has reached saturation, and foolishly set myself up as a skinflint by offering myself as someone who fell into that market. Jeremy Well, your email has succeeded in encouraging discussion on this list and good often comes out of discussion, even it gets a little heated from time to time. Many (initially) good ideas fall by the wayside after discussion, but many are also lost for fear of mentioning them and getting oneself into heated debate, so I don't think it was a subject which should have been avoided at all. With QPC you have to accept that it is being developed and sold as a commercial product. Once you have 'bitten the bullet' and bought it . at a cost of less than a pound over a year you never look back, just enjoy it ! The same with QDT, although I have only used it for a few weeks now, I already feel that I have enjoyed the benefit and 'got my moneys worth' in value. It is also a part of the fun to be involved in supporting any new developments. Join it is what I say ... after all this is an interest that we are meant to enjoy. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Just an idea for a new Product.....
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I touted this idea before in QUANTA, but got no feedback at all. I, in my guise as Q-CELT, produce CD-ROMs for the QL. I was wondering if there would be any demand (Hah!) for a DVD version - i.e. All of the CD-ROMs I produce would easily fit on one 4.7GB DVD-R. It has got cheaper to buy DVD-R's, so the overall price would be quite reasonable (a fraction of what it would cost to buy all the CD's separately - probably about the same as one CD). Anyone interested, or would I just be wasting my time? Would be a good idea, for those with DVD. ( I don't personally own one as yet ... ) Maybe do them 'on demand' so to speak. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], =?windows-1253?B?UGhvZWJ1cyBSLiBEb2tvcyAo1u/f4u/yINEuIM30/Orv8ik=?= [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Thu, 14 Apr 2005 14:22:06 -0400, Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes It reminds me of a famous quote by George Best :- 90% of my money I spent on booze, birds and gambling - the rest I wasted. Yes, that was one of his most lucid statements ... Yet possibly the greatest footballer that I have ever seen play. But how much better would he be if he used a QL to review his tactics? Could have had the success of the Greeks ? ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] George Best (OT)
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Yes, indeed. My Mum dated George Best for several months in Belfast (prior to him being a Man Utd player I think) - Pity, could've been my Dad if it had worked out!! He .. he ... weird ... :-) There is another great story. He was in a hotel suite, the morning after winning the European cup for United. He'd spent all night in the casino, and woke up hung-over as usual and ordered breakfast from room service. The young waiter pushed the room service trolley into the room and seen the place - He had a former miss world in the bed beside him, the cup was on the dressing table filled with ice and empty champagne bottles, and a ton of cash was strewn about the floor. The waiter looked at George and said Oh, George - where did it all go wrong? ;-)) He could have invested the cash in QL ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Darren Branagh [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes It reminds me of a famous quote by George Best :- 90% of my money I spent on booze, birds and gambling - the rest I wasted. Yes, that was one of his most lucid statements ... Yet possibly the greatest footballer that I have ever seen play. -Original Message- From: Dilwyn Jones [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: 13 April 2005 21:15 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles Yes, it like all code writing ... the major part of say 90% to 95% is relatively easy, yet it is the last 1% to 5% that is hard. -- Malcolm Cadman Refer to my Murphy's Law docs for the one which says that the first 90% of a project takes 90% of the time. The rest takes the other 90%. -- Dilwyn Jones -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Yes, it like all code writing ... the major part of say 90% to 95% is relatively easy, yet it is the last 1% to 5% that is hard. -- Malcolm Cadman Refer to my Murphy's Law docs for the one which says that the first 90% of a project takes 90% of the time. The rest takes the other 90%. Yes, myth has an uncanny way of being factual ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Just another simple thing ... are you using the 'zero' in the dimensioned array for the 'file_string' ? DIM f$(100) actually has 101 places reserved, as 0 to 100. Yes I do. As best as I can remember from memory the MAWDRAW command is used for drawing the files list in the menu, this uses an array slice depending on how many filenames there are. If there's 60 files it's be: MAWDRAW #channel%,1,f$(0 to 59) I may need to rig up a test routine in SBASIC for you to run on your machine for me to get some figures back to see why it's different on your system, OK, best to the latter, as my machine is not 'portable' to shows; and I will not be attending the AGM. OK Send me a SBASIC test routine with suitable break points to check progress. When you have time. Of course! I feel sure it will turn out to be something minor that is throwing the error. Indeed, I'm sure I'll be kicking myself when I discover the error! Yes, it like all code writing ... the major part of say 90% to 95% is relatively easy, yet it is the last 1% to 5% that is hard. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Have tried to break QStarter - configuring it for a small number of executables +/- small window and other win drives but without success. Could there be a clash between the Easyptr extensions and some other key words in a toolkit or SBASIC to result in the EOF message? Oh well ... it seems robust from your tests. If I recall the EOF comes from reading beyond the expected input limit. So a key word clash shouldn't be involved. Maybe there isn't a check on the limit ? Like ... IF EOF THEN EXIT loop . CLOSE#Input_Channel_Number There is an IF EOF(#chan) THEN EXIT... clause in the line just before the one where you experienced the error message, Malcolm. Yes, I assumed there was such a check ... just speculating. I remember getting the 'end of file' message in one of my programs, until I found where the error was occurring. Just another simple thing ... are you using the 'zero' in the dimensioned array for the 'file_string' ? DIM f$(100) actually has 101 places reserved, as 0 to 100. The directory pointer points at the two byte filename length counter in the directory, then GET reads the filename, which is a standard internal format string. What seems to be happening is that we are in a directory entry, GET fetches a length word, but fails to find that number of characters, which I thought was impossible. Will you be at the AGM, Malcolm? I could run the sources on your machine there to test what's going wrong, failing that, I may need to rig up a test routine in SBASIC for you to run on your machine for me to get some figures back to see why it's different on your system, there may be some oddity such as a particular name length causing problems or recursion going wrong somewhere with particular nesting depths. It might be a simple programming error with local variables and global ones getting mixed up, although at this moment I can't find anything like that. OK, best to the latter, as my machine is not 'portable' to shows; and I will not be attending the AGM. Send me a SBASIC test routine with suitable break points to check progress. When you have time. I feel sure it will turn out to be something minor that is throwing the error. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Duncan Neithercut [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hi Malcolm Cadman Have tried to break QStarter - configuring it for a small number of executables +/- small window and other win drives but without success. Could there be a clash between the Easyptr extensions and some other key words in a toolkit or SBASIC to result in the EOF message? Oh well ... it seems robust from your tests. If I recall the EOF comes from reading beyond the expected input limit. So a key word clash shouldn't be involved. Maybe there isn't a check on the limit ? Like ... IF EOF THEN EXIT loop . CLOSE#Input_Channel_Number -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Duncan Neithercut [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Have also tried the configuration of Malcom Cadman : win1_ subdirectories: Worked OK - got a big list of executable files Umm ... I am glad that it is working for you, Duncan. Yet curious for myself ... I am using QPC2 with SMSQ/E. Which I assume it what Dilwyn is using. End of file error messages are irrating, yet I believe there is a simple cure. -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of Dilwyn Jones Sent: 09 April 2005 13:53 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles Thanks. Dilwyn Jones QStarter 1.01 - Works on a Q60 with smsqe 3.09 Duncan Neithercut -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QStarter, QFiles
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes At last I've been able to update the QStarter program thanks to an upgrade of an extensions file from Marcel. The updated v1.01 has just been uploaded to my website. Another new little program has been uploaded - QFiles is a button which calls a File_Select$ menu from QMenu to allow indirect pointer driven file selection from non-pointered programs such as Quill. Click on the QFiles button, select the file with the usual File_Select$ menu and the filename is placed in the stuffer buffer, ready to be recovered with a simple ALT-SPACE keypress in the non-pointered program. Obviously pointer environment and QMenu (Menu Extension from Jochen Merz) are required. If your version of QMenu is recent enough, QFiles will also use the System Palette colours. OK. I downloaded Qstarter v1.01 This runs, and I configured it to have win1_ as the default path and 'Yes' to search sub-directories. It chugged away ... and then came up with an error : line 2880 GET end of file -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Q-Starter
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], =?windows-1253?B?UGhvZWJ1cyBSLiBEb2tvcyAo1u/f4u/yINEuIM30/Orv8ik=?= [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Mon, 04 Apr 2005 15:06:37 -0400, Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: By the way QWord has its own Icon with QDT and launches successfully, and drops back into QDT, even though there is a colour mode change on my system. Yes, Jim had the foresight to ask us to create one ahead of time. Yes, I noticed it was the only 'unique' one. Trust you to be first in ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Q-Starter
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hopefully, experience gained from writing this program will help and encourage me to write more programs to take advantage of the new facilities Marcel has worked so hard to bring us! http://homepages.tesco.net/dilwyn.jones/software/freeware/freeware.html Thanks, Dilwyn. I will download a copy this evening. I would like a 'new colours' aware version of Launchpad as I run it on QPC2. It is quite possibly on the agenda! That is what I figured ... :-) Once I'm happy the techniques I use in QStarter work to my satisfaction, I plan on tackling Launchpad, although it may be a bit more of a job than just redoing the menus, as there's some changes I want to implement for my own use too/ Yes. The intention of Launchpad to work on quite basic QL systems is fine ... and it should still do not. Just have the option to recognise a system with more enhanced features and use those features. I have now switched over to QDT as my preferred desktop, yet I am still using QTrans all time which is launched from an icon in the Util Folder. This was always how it would have been - QDT the system of choice for those with the system necessary to run it, Launchpad for those with older systems. That way, all users were catered for. Of course ... different intentions and market users. And already having Launchpad on my system has meant that QDT has recognised it, so it can be run at the same time, just like any other program. This is fun ... now we need software writers to get going with some new applications. From what I understand, it'll happen in the near future. I've written some articles for QL Today on the subject of developing programs using the new facilities with the new Easyptr when it's released. Good. New applications are what we really need. Many of the utilities and helper software are already there. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Q-Starter
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I thought I had, but will check later. Maybe I put them in and made a mistake with the $$asmb compiler directive. Case of better luck next time Dilwyn I think! Thanks for letting me know. I have had the same error come up. I emailed Dilwyn privately to perhaps save embarrassment ... From: Duncan Neithercut [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: 2005/04/04 Mon PM 08:22:08 GMT To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: [ql-users] Q-Starter Hi, tried it got the Qlib error message : Line 600 MSTAT% Invalid name - an easy ptr extension? Can you distribute the easy ptr runtimes with it? Duncan Neithercut -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
[ql-users] Articles of interest
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Ah yes, I see what you are getting at. While not directly QL related, this would fall under the general banner of indirectly relevant since the distribution of documentation is always a problem to us unless it is in Quill DOC or plain text format. With the new software and operating systems facilities we do need to look beyond QL formats or to extend what formats we can cope with. My own QL Documentation CD has material in everything from Quill DOC, plain text and RTF to HTML, PDF and Word files, without much in the way of consistency although I did try to convert between formats where it was straightforward. All too often we find that manuals etc for QL software sneak out as PDF or Word DOC files because (with the possible exception of HTML) we don't have a common file format which supports inclusion of graphics which are needed more and more for our ever more modern and complex QL software. There may be forthcoming standards for other systems out there which we need to be aware of, as you say who knows what people like Jonathan Hudson may decide to port next? As long as it's kept fairly short and general so that it does not go over the heads of the average QLer I don't see any problem with such material as long as it's placed in a QL context of some form, such as this is what's happening outside our scene, we need to consider how relevant it could be to us and see if we can port something or produce something of our own. Within common sense limits, I don't see a problem in attacking such a subject from that kind of viewpoint. What do others think? No problem to myself, as I already read a wide variety of computer and technology magazines and literature. Which is also true, I am sure, of many of the users of QL derived systems now. As long as the article is sensible and informative, it all adds to the knowledge and usefulness in the wider sense. I subscribe to a specialist magazine called 'Living with Technology' that was started up about 2 years ago by some 'minority' computer enthusiasts with a mainly Acorn/RISCOS background. It now covers a wide variety of articles on up-to-date information about technology from the point of view of actually using it with understanding about what is actually going on. Try looking it up on http://www.livtech.co.uk The most recent issue had articles, amongst others, on :- Archiving Cine to Video/DVD Energy Saving Lights( LEDs ) Google is Your Friend! Home Theatre PC Norman Dunbar wrote: I wasn't referring to humour, at least, I hadn't thought about it as such. I was thinking more along the lines of articles of a general computing nature. For a possible example, I sometimes work with manuals, instructions whatever in DocBook format. Once written in this (specialised) XML format, a file can then be converted into an HTML document in many 'pages' (one per section) or into a single HTML document with everything in it, or to PDF format etc. The is done using XSLT which are templates that are applied to the source file and they produce the output format of choice either directly or indirectly. As an article, I would only give an introduction to DocBook, a few small examples and point the reader in the general direction of a few Web sites for further information. As for XSLT and so on, I don't even know where to begin with that piece of Voodoo - it's well beyond me and my abilities. One potential (and planned) use of DocBook is to convert my QDOS Internals web site (still unfinished) into DocBook and get the benefits of generating the HTML for the Web, plus downloadable files in the three different formats. And so on. While we don't (yet) have anything remotely like this for the QL, who knows - the very thought of it might spur someone with the talent to do the job, on to actually doing it. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Q-Starter
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Q-STARTER Q-Starter is a simple experimental program to see if I can successfully create a program which will run on anything from a QDOS system with pointer environment to the latest Window Manager 2 and use the System Palette. It is also my first attempt at writing a program to use scalable menus. In theory, it ought to display Launchpad-style menus on systems prior to Window Manager 2, and display System Palette colour menus on Window Manager 2 systems (SMSQ/E v3.09 or later). I would welcome feedback on this program, in particular any problems found in running it on older systems, being as my main QL at the time of writing is a QPC2 emulator! Oh, does this program do anything useful? Actually, yes it does. It's a mini program launcher, which searches for all program files it can find on your system starting from the drive/directory specified (optionally reading through subdirectories) and presenting these in a menu from which you can simply click on the program file to be executed. Leave it sat in your QPAC2 button frame to have it always available as a quick if slightly dirty program starter! Apologies to Marcel Kilgus for jumping the gun slightly - I've used the pre-release of Easyptr 4 to creating this program, which is an experimental release to invite feedback on any shortcomings. My hopes are that if this program works OK on older and newer systems, I'll be able to update my existing programs to use the excellent new facilities of Easyptr 4 as soon as the official release happens. I hope plenty of people will download and use Q-Starter (which is Freeware) and let me know if it works on their systems. My systems are: QPC2 v3.30 with SMSQ/E 3b09 Aurora (MinisQL) with JM ROM (Q-Starter has problems on SMSQ/E v3.06 for unknown reasons) Q-Starter works on QPC2 v3.30 and Aurora with JM QDOS ROM, I'd like to hear about success or otherwise on other systems. Hopefully, experience gained from writing this program will help and encourage me to write more programs to take advantage of the new facilities Marcel has worked so hard to bring us! http://homepages.tesco.net/dilwyn.jones/software/freeware/freeware.html Thanks, Dilwyn. I will download a copy this evening. I would like a 'new colours' aware version of Launchpad as I run it on QPC2. I have now switched over to QDT as my preferred desktop, yet I am still using QTrans all time which is launched from an icon in the Util Folder. This is fun ... now we need software writers to get going with some new applications. By the way QWord has its own Icon with QDT and launches successfully, and drops back into QDT, even though there is a colour mode change on my system. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] qdt/qpc;
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], James Hunkins [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Hi Bill, Yes, please do send over your install_log file when you figure it out, along with letting me know if you had any demos loaded before. You asked about the signal extensions. You do not actually need them. For some reason the latest build of the unzip utility thinks that you do and gives you a warning that they aren't there. But everything works just fine regardless. I have added a note in the FAQ page on the QDT website as to this. QDT itself instead uses the env_bin for its signal passing and does not itself require the signal extensions. This env_bin is part of the QDT install to make sure that your system is set up properly. That is useful to know, as I dug out a copy of the signal extensions before proceeding with my install of QDT when that error/warning came up. The install all went fine from there on. I am now a happy QDT user of the QPC / SMSQ/E version. It is all very smooth. Just waiting for all the added functionality to come along to remove the 'not yet implemented' warnings ... -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] network installation of QPC2
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Wolfgang Uhlig [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Marcel wrote: Quite normally, I guess. But there will be problems when a) two users trying to start QPC at the same instant (one will get a Cannot open SMSQE.BIN or something like that). b) two users trying to access the .WIN file at the same time. To prevent those problems I did it the following way in the language institute I worked, where severals students had to work with the same QL-program at the same time. 1) There is one original QPC, SMSQ/E.bin and QXL.win on the server. 2) Clicking a QPC-icon on the client's desktop first runs a small batch-file which will XCOPY (DOS command) all files to the client computer and then 3) run QPC from the client computer. The XCOPY command cares for copying only when something on the server has changed, so you can make sure that changes to programs or data is only done on the server original qxl.win file. If changes on the client computers have to be stored, just adapt the XCOPY-batch to not copy QXL.win. Everything runs fine, fast and complications are not likely. Modern PC-networks are so fast, that you hardly notice the copying. Umm ... a cool solution, Wolfgang. You have brought back memories of discovering the use of XCOPY rather than COPY in DOS ... :-) Your solution should be perfect for Dilwyns' proposal for his small user network. Because, as you say, the background copying will hardly be noticed. In fact my experience of using networks is that it is nearly always 'slow' compared to a single machine anyway. So the user is hardly going to be inconvenienced. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] network installation of QPC2
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Ah, great news. That sounds like it will achieve what I want to do. If the data in the file needs updating (e.g. new forms to add) I could temporarily un write protect it, update it, and restore normality. In normal everyday use, nobody will need to write to it. If I need to update it, I'll tell everyone not to use it until I tell them I've finished (administrator rules OK!) Thanks Marcel and everyone, just the information I wanted. Also, while you at it you may as well make the win_ file on the sever as big as you can get away with ... then you will have lots of space to store QL stuff that no one else will need to know about. I remember the DOS command to make a file read only is 'attrib +r' ... ? From: Marcel Kilgus [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: 2005/02/11 Fri PM 03:28:31 GMT To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: [ql-users] network installation of QPC2 [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: As long as nobody opens a channel to write to it, Doesn't matter whether you open the file for writing or only for reading. The drive will be blocked. But I just remember one other solution. If you set the .WIN file attribute to read only in Windows then the QPCs will open the file in a different mode. In this mode two or more QPCs can actually have the file opened *at the same time* because they can be sure that no other application will be able to corrupt the cached FAT data. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] network installation of QPC2
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Marcel Kilgus [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Phoebus Dokos wrote: The one thing that I can tell you is that at least my QPC will not share a QXL.WIN file with another QPC (or uQLx - Q-emuLator for that matter). Although QPC will start normally, the second another application tries to use the QXL.WIN file, the first QPC will not have access to the QXL.WIN file until the sharing application ceases to operate. Do a WIN_REMV x, x being the drive number, on the PC that hosts the .WIN file (it is automatically done if QPC detects that the .WIN is on a remote server). In short that means that you cannot have one shared qxl.win across the network. Wrong. They can't access it at the same time (i.e. after OPEN#3,win1_boot WIN1 is blocked for the other machine until you do a CLOSE#3), but apart from that they can share it just fine. And the latter is also true of multiple instances of QPC2 on the same PC I assume ? Which I haven't tried by the way. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] My Documents
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], jms1 [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes - Original Message - From: Roy wood [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, February 07, 2005 8:47 PM Subject: Re: [ql-users] My Documents Actually it is even easier. Right Click the 'My Documents' folder - go to properties and change the link marked 'target' there. No need for any of the rest of it. Don't let Dilwyn into the registry!! -- Roy Wood Q Branch. 20 Locks Hill, Portslade, Sussex.BN41 2LB Tel: +44 (0) 1273 386030fax: +44 (0) 1273 430501 web : www.qbranch.demon.co.uk ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm And I thought Dilwyn was a computer wise gentleman! In the QL world both wise and gentleman. A very good programmer too ... However, with PC's he seems to confuse them or they confuse him :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] My Documents
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Wolfgang Uhlig wrote: As far as I can see: By default, if you right-click the My Documents icon on your desktop and click Properties, the tab lets you change the path of this folder. If this doesn't work, you probably have to change the following registry value to 0. HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\E xplorer\DisablePersonalDirChange (if value is 1) DisablePersonalDirChange isn't present in the registry, at least not in that location. All that's there is: (Default) REG_SZ (value not set) NoWelcomeScreen REG_DWORD 0x0001 (1) Thanks to everyone for trying to help, I think we should close this thread now (especially on the list). If need be, I know how to change the registry entries or to download the TweakUI utility Marcel mentioned. Interesting though that something you'd have thought to be so essential should prove so *irritatingly* difficult to achieve without extra software for the ordinary user! Yes, this is getting off topic. However, I believe the intention behind the 'registry' was to make it not easily accessible to the 'ordinary PC user'. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: AW: [ql-users] Visit to Switzerland
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Roy wood [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Anybody got relatives in North Wales (lonely being one of only 2 known QLers in North Wales)? -- Dilwyn Jones The only QLer in the village - for all you Little Britain fans. Can't imaging Dilwyn in those trousers though. Or, at least, I don't want to. Now that puts a different face on it ... :-) You had better be careful, Tony, about making a potential visit to the village ... laplink, null modem cable, and all ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] My Documents
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Marcel Kilgus [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Urgently need help (preferably off list) on this one. My Documents on my computer at work usually points to \\server\users\ (can't remember rest fo it from memory) For reasons best known to itself it's decided to put itself onto drive C on this PC, so of course ALL company documents are suddenly lost without trace. I'd like to redirect the My Documents folder back to its original server location but can find no info how to do this. Windows help is meaningless gibberish going on about Group Policy and such things without actually explaining how or where to go about it. Depends on how your network works. In bigger installation the computer is likely to be joined in a Domain, where the Domain administrator controls that stuff. With normal Workstations like mine at home the location can be set using TweakUI (free download from Microsoft). M$ did something called PC Power Tools sometime ago. Which may help you get control over the PC settings. The Tools are only what the ordinary enthusiast may expect. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] smsq gold
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Otherwise, you might need the guide on setting up the Aurora hardware for high colours which Phoebus put together. No I am not certain. All I am certain of is that it's SMSQ_GOLD v3.06. It probably ain't the colours version as DISP_COLOUR 2 does nothing it seems. Does DISP_COLOUR 3 work OK ? -- Malcolm Cadman I haven't tried that, as it's an Aurora, I never tried beyond 256 colours. I think I must be mistaken here. I asked Jochen for an update some time ago and can't remember if it was for QL+Gold Card or Aurora/SGC. If it was for QL+Gold Card it most likely did not have the Aurora 256 colour module, hence my problem (bad memory, on my part not the (S)GC!) Yes that could be the cause. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] smsq gold
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I seem to have got myself into a bit of a muddle. First, I manage to destroy a QL+RomDisq with a corrupt copy of smsq_gold 3.06 (revived with romd214_exe) and now I can't get 256 colour mode to work on the Aurora. Is the same smsq-gold v3.06 used for 256 colour on Aurora or is there a separate version for Aurora? DISP_TYPE will change resolution on the Aurora/SGC (a MinisQL) but DISP_COLOUR 2 is ignored and configuring it to start in 256 colour mode seems to make it lock up at a black screen. If a separate version is needed, fine, just thought that as both machines had Gold Card and SuperGold Card I thought I'd try the Gold Card version which seems to run as long as the Aurora stays in QL colour modes. Not having the best of days today, the PC is behaving and the QLs ain't. Somewhat unuusal in this household. Now now - SMSQ_Gold colour version is the right one for Aurora - but are you sure you have the colour version of SMSQ/e Dilwyn - here we go back to the moans that there is no way of telling one from the other... Otherwise, you might need the guide on setting up the Aurora hardware for high colours which Phoebus put together. No I am not certain. All I am certain of is that it's SMSQ_GOLD v3.06. It probably ain't the colours version as DISP_COLOUR 2 does nothing it seems. Does DISP_COLOUR 3 work OK ? -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QPC2 v3.30
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Marcel Kilgus [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Roy wood wrote: Not sure I understand the point here. If you have two machines running QPC2 and connected by ethernet why not just map the drives so they have a letter and then use that letter as one of the QXL.WIN files ? I have done it like this for ages. I believe Marcel has even made it possible for two machines to access the same file although I have not tried it. No, it can't. UDPNet, on the other hand, could do this. Plus, it is a native solution and is basically cross-plattform. If Q40 had IP support, it could be used to sync QPC and Q40. OTOH the more I know about the SERNet/UDPNet code, the less I like it. It probably should be rewritten from scratch (and use TCP instead of UDP). But this is not exactly a minor task. What does UDP stand for - obviously a Protocol ? Did it precede TCP ? I installed the QPC2 v3.30 upgrade in the usual painless way ... :-) ... thanks. As I am using WIN95, I took the advice on your web site and upgraded to Winsock2 first. Not being certain that I had already done so ... however, that was painless too ... :-) Obviously I will explore the new and improved features. First impression with real applications is that it is, once again, a lot faster. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QPC2 v3.30
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Wolfgang Lenerz [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On 30 Jan 2005 at 17:43, Malcolm Cadman wrote: What does UDP stand for - obviously a Protocol ? 1) Short for User Datagram Protocol. (2) Short for Usenet Death Penalty Umm ... I figured it would be harmful to humans ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
[ql-users] OT: Sheds
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Tony Firshman [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Thu, 27 Jan 2005 at 21:47:30, Bill Waugh wrote: (ref: [EMAIL PROTECTED]) I think it is too... and informative :-P I won't bore you with all the various misspellings of my name. The best one I suppose, was a letter starting Dear Mr Services, Now THAT is funny :-) even funnier if they had presumed a few Christian names - Motorway, Emergency, Special or perhaps Shed Erecting (;-) I have one more now - seven in total. I am even thinking of extending my office (shed) to make a print room. Dear Mr Services ... are you clear on planning permission for all these sheds ? ... :-) -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] OT: Sheds
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Tony Firshman [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Fri, 28 Jan 2005 at 10:29:26, Malcolm Cadman wrote: (ref: [EMAIL PROTECTED]) snip - seven in total. I am even thinking of extending my office (shed) to make a print room. Dear Mr Services ... are you clear on planning permission for all these sheds ? ... :-) Amazingly, sheds do not need planning permission in this borough. I could fill the garden with them! How lucky you are ... else they may be after you for business rates ... -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Pointer Environment and TK II
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Roy wood [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes After a discussion with Tony Tebby Jochen Merz and I have his permission to release the three Pointer Environment extensions HOT_REXT, PTR_GEN and WMAN as freeware. They will now be freely distributable. Copyright will remain with Tony Tebby I have some documentation with explanation the Keywords etc. which should be bundled with them. I will zip the whole thing and make it available to Dilwyn for inclusion on his website.. We have also got Tony's agreement to do the same for Toolkit II. At the moment I do not have a copy of this which can be LRESPR'd or a text file to accompany it but I hope to have both soon. OK This means that these files can now be included with emulators free of charge It should be noted that the Menu Extensions remain commercial as they are still being supported and developed by Jochen Merz Software. Anyone wishing to distribute these with their software should contact him for a licence I hope you will all agree this is good news. Yes, very good news. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] A bit of a drag
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], James Hunkins [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes If the system isn't quite fast enough to do the full window drag smooth enough for you, then WM_MOVEMODE 1 does the outline only versus full window. And you can reset it to just the Move sprite with WM_MOVEMODE 0. On QDT, to use the outline or full window modes to move a folder window (at least for a while), you will need to use the drop down menu to select move and hold the mouse button down while you are moving the folder window. If you use the short cut keys, it will use only the move sprite, regardless of the WM_MOVEMODE selected. jim On Jan 17, 2005, at 6:01 AM, Marcel Kilgus wrote: Tarquin Mills wrote: However one thing let's SMSQ/E down is that windows are moved not dragged, not even a frame outline is used. It has this ability built-in. Configure it accordingly or issue a WM_MOVEMODE 2 command. Marcel I had forgotten about that option. I have now added it into my boot file, and the windows just fly around the screen with no problem now. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Keyboard
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I wonder if Jon's solution could be made available to others? I'll put it on my website when it's finished if you want to. How many users of Swiss keyboard variants are there? I guess that the solution to one such keyboard variation on the more widely used ones could be useful to others to help create different national keyboard layouts too. Good idea to have Jon's solution available to others. Presumably it can be modified to suit other variations that are a problem. Ian did email me privately with the keyboard problem that he was having. My suggestion was to check the language setting in Windows. I had forgotten about the setting check in QPC. However, all of these did not solve the problem until Jon's solution. In addition, I suggested putting the problem to this list/ Once again, it shows what knowledge there is from the subscribers to the list. - Original Message - From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: QL-Users [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Sunday, January 16, 2005 3:17 PM Subject: [ql-users] Keyboard Thanks to everybody who have been responding. Jon Dent has sent me his solution and with one line in my boot the problem is solved. Almost every key (shift or not, AltGr or not) is correct for my Swiss French kbd. Regards, Ian -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QLib maintained
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], John Gilpin [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes snip I also met David Batty at the Manchester AGM and he gave me one of his business cards as he showed an interest in our sub-group meetings (but has never actually attended one). His card has address, phone and mobile numbers, email and web site addresses. If anyone cares to contact me off list I will pass this info on. Most of what has been said above is correct. See other email. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QLib maintained
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Tony Firshman [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Fri, 14 Jan 2005 at 00:32:27, Malcolm Cadman wrote: (ref: [EMAIL PROTECTED]) snip I have drawn a blank with a similar quest in trying to contact David Batty of Sector Software for the Perfection software. Sector Software Attn: Mr D Batty 39 Wray Crescent Ulnes Walton PRESTON Lancs PR26 8HN [EMAIL PROTECTED] 01772 454328 Thanks, Yet that is the postal address which has drawn a blank. There also appears to be several email addresses, for sector software. I have tried : [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] Although it is not unusual for a person to change the latter. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QLib maintained
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], John Gilpin [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes - Original Message - From: Tony Firshman [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, January 14, 2005 8:59 PM Subject: Re: [ql-users] QLib maintained On Fri, 14 Jan 2005 at 00:32:27, Malcolm Cadman wrote: (ref: [EMAIL PROTECTED]) snip I have drawn a blank with a similar quest in trying to contact David Batty of Sector Software for the Perfection software. Sector Software Attn: Mr D Batty 39 Wray Crescent Ulnes Walton PRESTON Lancs PR26 8HN JG I have LEYLAND Lancs PR26 8NH and www.sectorsoftware.co.uk and a mobile number. Any help to anyone? Thanks. The Ulnes Walton and the Leyland are the same area of Lancashire. Is there any response to the mobile number ? If so you could email it to me privately. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] Accessing FTP
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Can you try this from your web browser ? I have tested it from Demon with Internet Explorer, and it works. ftp://members.aol.com/mcadman/ It should bring up Windows Explorer and show some folders and files. One of the folders is set to 'Private' i.e, only available to myself as a member, the others should be open to anyone, and can be looked or downloaded where appropriate. Just navigate it like any other device. -- Malcolm Cadman Just tried it - it's very simple to use. It looks just like a normal Windows list of files. I read the README file without problem, and the PRIVATE folder and it said something like 'You do not have permission to access this' Yes, that it is it. Thanks. All as expected. What I am saying is that you should be able to set up an FTP access as alternative to your web site access. One can complement the other. On the web site you can also have a link to the FTP site. Users who know what they are looking for just go to the FTP, find the file(s) and download. Launchpad for example ( the demo version ) could have folder to itself, as a zip. The other programmes in the suite could be available independently were appropriate. In addition an Updates folder could hold any new changes for programs that will only be of use to a registered user. Seems straightforward as a user, I hope the uploading etc is as easy. Yes it is, isn't it ? Surprisingly useful :-) I must start making for use of it again myself :-) ... with HTTP you just tend to forget about FTP. Unless you maintain your own web site, and then you have to use FTP software to upload the files. Is it possible to display a text file or something which helps the user by showing the filename and a short description text: .. Back to previous directory turbo.zipTurbo compiler (100KB) game.zip Some game or other (25KB) qtranz.zip Q-Trans file handling program (1GB) readme.txt Description of files in this folder The folder can certainly have a name that is long and have spaces between the words / numbers, because it is being viewed with Win32. Thus a folder named 'Turbo Compiler v.4xx ( 100KB ) - 14-01-05' - could have the relevant zip file inside it. You can also have any helpful text files around to guide the user, e.g, Compilers.txt, Games.txt, etc You just have to be a bit more creative, as the 'browser view' of a web page is not there. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QLib maintained
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Yes, getting the source code is important, and any remaining copyright issues. I have drawn a blank with a similar quest in trying to contact David Batty of Sector Software for the Perfection software. Following this Dave Gilham is now looking at making the enhanced full screen version, that was discussed at the end of 2004, available with a limited license condition. The only connection David Batty has to Perfection is that he now owns the rights to the name 'Digital Precision Ltd'. The original authors of Perfection were Freddy Vachha and Steve Sutton IIRC. Yes, but he holds the rights to the software produced by DP. David Batty is contactable though - he is still living at the address in Ulness Walton in Lancashire (was it 39 Wray Crescent?) that he used in his QL adverts years ago. He has a website, something like www.sectorsoftware.co.uk or something like that (not sure if it was one word or a hyphen or dot or underscore between sector and software). When I met him at a Quanta AGM in Manchester a year or two ago he gave me a phone number which I've since lost which even resembled what I could remember of his phone number from those QL adverts - he used to sell software I'd written so we used to call each other a lot. I have written to the address you indicate and email address in November of 2004, and neither have produced a result. I remember his excitement when I told him that George Gwilt had made the source code of Turbo available via John Sadler's website, something David was VERY interested in. Most people think of David as a trader, but he used to write software too, Touch Typist for example. He now does various things for a living, including writing software and installing and updating software remotely onto office computers. Well, it seems it would be useful to have the other SBASIC complier, Qlib, also maintained. I know that you use Qlib for your software. Although David is not actively QLing, he said he has been known to dip his toes in the water every now and then and keeps up to date enough (not sure how, perhaps via my website) to know when QL shows occur in his area - he occasionally visits the Manchester Quanta workshops for example. Well if you have any luck in contacting then let me know. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] I'm home, dear.
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Wolfgang Lenerz [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes clip Can we more or less agree on the following: --- It will be set up as a thing (since I don't think we have found any other satisfactory solution for compiled Basic). For each job, the thing should contain: the complete filename the dir whence it came from (home dir) the current dir which will initially be the home dir facilities should exist to set the complete filename. This will also set the home dir and current dir. get the filename, home dir and current dir. set the current dir (either directly or by ddup, ddown?) get the length of the file/dir names (this would only be of interest if *somebody* actually gets around to implementing some form of long file names). set a default filename for a job with a certain name You are very good at drawing out the essentials of the discussion. You may now get more comments from a wider range of users if you or others can give some practical examples of the disadvantages of the present method, and the advantages of the improved method. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] BMP files etc
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Dilwyn, with all the stuff that you are providing on your www site maybe you should also consider an FTP repository. In that way all the files available are readily accessible for download. FTP came before HTTP and was designed for file access. Although the latter seems now to be more popular as users are more used to accessing from a web site. I've never set up an FTP site and would need help and advice to get it going, but it's something I'd consider. I've been very lucky with the Freeola UK6 site, it's reliable, has masses of free space and the only real restriction they place on you is that everything must be visible, i.e. pages anyone can read or files anyone can download, you mustn't use it as a private file store. I guess they make their money from users dialling up. Can you point me a source of information on getting and setting up an FTP site? At present I haven't set up one either. Probably when Phoebus gets back on the list he will have the know how and information. I have two net accounts, one with Demon and one with AOL. The Demon account has everything, I just haven't investigated it for FTP. The AOL account gives an easy to use access to storing files via FTP as a part of the package. Perhaps Rich will know more about this too, as he may have a fuller AOL account than mine. In addition I have found it find it to be a handy way to get large files from one machine to another by using it as a store. Upload from one computer and download on the other. Of course the 'free' space available on AOL is limited. Yet a fuller service would be the equivalent of having a large virtual drive. A cost for dial-up accounts, yet easy for broadband and the like. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QL filename length revisited
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes What I thought you were saying was a method by which you were integrating the win drive into a network with other computers, in terms of accessing the files. I am assuming that you are allowed to log in a portable PC with QPC2 installed onto a PC network where you work. We are only a small 16-staff company with 4 office terminals currently on the network, although it is straightforward to add a few more. We are allowed to do reasonable things as long as we use the virus checkers and don't recklessly put the network at risk. I'm one of the two of us who look after the computers (good job I like PCs eh?) so I simply ask myself permission ;-) I figured that may be the case ... :-) My work network is quite large, and I haven't yet been awarded a portable PC. The network is now Windows XP Professional from middle of last year ( 2004 ). Previously it was Windows 2000, and before that Windows 98. Actually, I take care to virus scan and the software is pretty rock solid here. I've been caught out enough times by viruses and all the various other problems in my time to avoid unnecessary risk. Yes, essential. I do sometimes alter the WIN and DOS path names to access one of the other computers over the network (classic is that the boss's printer is the only one I can print to from QPC2, the others have no DOS mode and simply ignore QPC2!). My QXLWINManager program comes in handy to rememeber and set up these long winded network path names, so it's quite practical to be running as many devices as you want and hot-swap the path names with WIN_DRIVE, DOS_DRIVE etc. Yes that is what I thought you were doing. That is using the network to access its resources as well as file names. Worth a write up at sometime. Just to alert a wider audience to this. Do you do the 'hot-swap', i.e, whilst actively logged into the network, from within QPC2 or from Launchpad, or from the command line ? My computing world seems to be a complex interaction of PC and QPC2. It used to be pretty clear cut - use the QPC2 for whatever I could and use Windows for everything else (usually scanning and email/internet) but what with Marcel's work on TCP/IP from QPC2 it's getting a little less clear cut than it used to be! Yes, well that is the point ... it is a way into extended access and resources of the hardware. As well as the software. Now all I need to do is persuade either QPC2 or PC to answer the phone for me to filter out the whacky sales calls getting in the way of the real customers! Perhaps I could make up a stupid CD of prank sounds for QPC2's CD Player to play to the endless telephone salesmen while I leave them on hold! Although at present QPC2 is running on top SMSQ/E which is on top of Windows, because of Directx, etc, and not in native mode. If SMSQ/E or a further development of the concept was an OS for the hardware and software then it would be akin to a Linux set up. Interesting. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
[ql-users] FTP access
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Rich Mellor [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Thu, 13 Jan 2005 18:18:49 +, Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes clip Can you point me a source of information on getting and setting up an FTP site? At present I haven't set up one either. Probably when Phoebus gets back on the list he will have the know how and information. I have two net accounts, one with Demon and one with AOL. The Demon account has everything, I just haven't investigated it for FTP. The AOL account gives an easy to use access to storing files via FTP as a part of the package. Perhaps Rich will know more about this too, as he may have a fuller AOL account than mine. I don't think that AOL provides a free FTP upload and download area for non-members. Ah yes, that is the catch. It is a 'members' only service. Although 'non-members' ought to be able to download only? Through anonymous FTP. I have just been using it again for the first time in a long time, and there is 20Mb of space per user name. With up to 7 user names. More space than I had realised. The user interface has also been improved with everything being done via icons. I don't use their service anymore except for internet access and some email - their servers (in common with most free space providers) were too unreliable and too slow. Odd. I use for web browse searches, and all my downloads as it easy and quick. I have plenty of space for FTP files on my servers but the problem is how do you provide a simple way of navigating to the right file and finding it? Well it just set up like a hard drive, directories with the name of the contents. You could have a 'QWord Update' directory, for example, and users just navigate to it, and then download. You would have to look at the help file for your webspace provider in order to find out how to enable anonymous FTP - I can do this on my rwapservices.co.uk server through the control panel for the website. Anyone can then connect to my server using a username of [EMAIL PROTECTED] and their email address as the password. It is not difficult to do on a paid web server. Yes it is convenient. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QLib maintained
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Roy wood [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes SNIP Just to mention it again, it seems that Qlib should maintained, somehow. If I recall it is from 1993 that it ceased to be developed. I tried to get in touch with the authors some time ago but they are lost in the ether. I have a few copies of their programs that I bought some time ago but no-one buys them now. I did talk to Ian Stewart about getting to source code so I could get some work done on this but he was not the main programmer and did not have it. He said he was no longer in touch with the other author - whose name I forget. If anyone can contact them I would be happy to talk to them about the possibility of getting it supported.. Yes, getting the source code is important, and any remaining copyright issues. I have drawn a blank with a similar quest in trying to contact David Batty of Sector Software for the Perfection software. Following this Dave Gilham is now looking at making the enhanced full screen version, that was discussed at the end of 2004, available with a limited license condition. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
[ql-users] Accessing FTP
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Rich Mellor [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes On Thu, 13 Jan 2005 18:18:49 +, Malcolm Cadman [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Dilwyn, with all the stuff that you are providing on your www site maybe you should also consider an FTP repository. In that way all the files available are readily accessible for download. FTP came before HTTP and was designed for file access. Although the latter seems now to be more popular as users are more used to accessing from a web site. I've never set up an FTP site and would need help and advice to get it going, but it's something I'd consider. I've been very lucky with Freeola UK6 site, it's reliable, has masses of free space and the only real restriction they place on you is that everything must be visible, i.e. pages anyone can read or files anyone can download, you mustn't use it as a private file store. I guess they make their money from users dialling up. Can you point me a source of information on getting and setting up an FTP site? Can you try this from your web browser ? I have tested it from Demon with Internet Explorer, and it works. ftp://members.aol.com/mcadman/ It should bring up Windows Explorer and show some folders and files. One of the folders is set to 'Private' i.e, only available to myself as a member, the others should be open to anyone, and can be looked or downloaded where appropriate. Just navigate it like any other device. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
[ql-users] QLib maintained
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Wolfgang Lenerz [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes clip Alternatively, EX could be made to identify a QLibbed program and store its dataspace address in a known safe location before activation. Err, like what? And how do you get at it from within your basic keyword (which should also work for normal uncompiled basic) (...) Just to mention it again, it seems that Qlib should maintained, somehow. If I recall it is from 1993 that it ceased to be developed. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] BMP files etc
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes I don't think that I see the changes. Am I blind or did they not actually get uploaded yet? Thanks, jim Just checked (1345 UK time), they are there. The email was sent immediately after I uploaded the files, updated pages don't seem to become public for a little while (usually a few minutes). There is usually a 5 to 10 minute lapse, between you uploading and users being able to access the modified page. Dilwyn, with all the stuff that you are providing on your www site maybe you should also consider an FTP repository. In that way all the files available are readily accessible for download. FTP came before HTTP and was designed for file access. Although the latter seems now to be more popular as users are more used to accessing from a web site. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] QL filename length revisited
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], Dilwyn Jones [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes clip Interesting ... can you write this up sometime in QLToday as this would be a useful guide to 'Getting the best out of QPC'. I think it has been mentioned a couple of times. The QPC method is unique to QPC2 I think. The path names corresponding to DOS1_, DOS2_ etc are defined in the QPC2 (or should I say SMSQ/E) configuration. Let us say that DOS1_ is C:\My really big QL directory with a very long name\ I think you can add a 36 character filename to this, the definition for DOS1_ is in addition to the usual 36 character QL directory/filename. Maybe Marcel will put me right on this if I am incorrect. What I am a little less sure about is what happens if you define DEV1_ to be a fairly long directory name such as win1_my_very_long_directory_name_ I can't remember if I can then save a full 36 character filename such as 12345678901234567890123456789012_txt into DEV1_. I doubt it, because somewhere a 64 character path name would be stored and that might make the filing system less than happy as there is only space for 36 characters in any file header. Must sit down and try this sometime. I did work around it somehow some time ago and I just can't remember exactly what I did, although I might have been playing with the DOS devices rather than WIN at the time, where I may be subject to different rules perhaps. Basic problem with QL filename length limits is that there is space for 36 characters in the file header. All well and good until you realise that the directory name has to be included in this. I think that the file mytext_txt stored in win1_verylongdirectoryname_ has the full entry of verylongdirectoryname_mytext_txt stored in the 36 character part of the file header, not just the name mytext_txt Some filing systems work around this sort of thing by having two entries for each filename - one is the short version with just the filename, the other would be semi-hidden somewhere (probably a virtual filing system) with the longer path names. So commands which understand the new filing system can use the stored longer path name and old ones only use the shorter version. Quite how something like this would be arranged in practice I'm not sure, I don't have the knowledge of the system and I'm probably talkign rubbish as usual anyway!!! Yes, of course, it is very useful to be able to access the 'DOS' sub-directories by defining them as 'DOS2_' ... 'DOS3_' ... etc. For example, I usually put zip files, into a temporary folder, so - DOS2_ defined as C:\Temp Which makes it easier to access the DOS folder and copy it across to the QL side - win drive. The 36 characters are soon used up, with 2, 3 or more sub-directories. What I thought you were saying was a method by which you were integrating the win drive into a network with other computers, in terms of accessing the files. I am assuming that you are allowed to log in a portable PC with QPC2 installed onto a PC network where you work. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
Re: [ql-users] display or convert non _scr formats to _scr
In message [EMAIL PROTECTED], James Hunkins [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes Any other suggestions out there? It turns out that the software Phoebus is working on runs on Windows and is tied to Microsoft's .net stuff which I am not setup with and can't afford to install this close to QDT release. Yes, you do need the .net support. I tried Photon sometie ago now, and came to the same conclusion. I believe that .net itself only works on the more recent incarnations of Windows. Also quite a large download. OK, to those who have it. Has any one experienced using it ? Roy, if you are on line, I think you told me how to display a full screen image before and capture it? Have you got the improved Norman Dunbar software - which is called 'Snatch-IT' I believe ? ... although I could be wrong with the name. It was originally developed for QDOS, but Norman modified it to work under QPC so that higher pixel count images could be 'snatched' from the screen. You could also use any similar PC Application for this that will capture a screen. In editing software you can erase any unwanted parts, such as the Windows background screen, etc. -- Malcolm Cadman ___ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
