NOV/DEC ’87

BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE

Vol. 4 No. 1 7 Paul M Anderson Jul/es ea 2321 Caminito Mira PERMIT #51 $3.00 San Diego, CA 92107 POSTMASTER: PLEASE EXPEDITE DELIVERY U.S. Funds - 2 DATED MATERIAL

ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED

AMERICA’S LARGEST TIMEX SINCLAIR MAGAZINE

KKK RRR KKK KEKE KR EH

CompuServe

| Official Airline Guides

» * *¥ * * * * * *+ * *% * * * * * 4 * * * * * * * -” * * * * * * * * * * * * * * "s * * * * * *

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LiL eRe ESTES TCL LL Le LLL LLL LLL LLL LLL LLL LLL LLL LLL LLL LLL Leer:

SPECTERN-bY (TS-4.1) Terminal Softuare for T/Sd28h8

You already know that SPECTERM-64 is a terminal software for the 1/S2068. You also know that it has a (4 coluan display (without additional hardware), 1200 baud capability, XMODEM and auch, much sore. NOW with FULL SIZE Printer Support and EASY INSTALLATION. Works with either the 2050 wodem or the 2-SI/0 Card (for 1200 baud operation). What you don’t know is what your fellow 1/2068 users have to say about it. Here’s a few examples:

Dan L., Ohio; “*SUPER’ SOFTWARE, GOODBYE MTERM II“ * #4444 Norman L., Calif.s ".....6reat Product!"

Jin R., Mass.; “Fantastic! 1200 baud, 64 coluan software! Now all we need is a 1200 baud 2068 BBS progran...” (We heard you Jia, look at the TME-4 software described below.)

Robert S., Calif.s “Great to see all of the display on other BBS’s. Like the easy downloading.“

SPECTERH-64 (T5-4.1) is available on cassette and also on AERCO FD-68 and JLO SAFE (v2.3 or higher) diskette. Disk versions require NO INSTALLATION. XLATE included FREE of CHARGE. Spectrum version on tape only.

THX-bY BBS Softmare for T/S2Bb8 (3868/1288 Baud)

This is the “next generation” BBS software for the 1/52068 Personal Color Computer. The THd-64 BBS software is the first for the 1/52068 that is both 300 and 1200 baud compatible. It is FULL FEATURED, written by Kurt Casby and available only from 6 & € COMPUTER PRODUCTS.

2-S1/0 AS-d32e Serial Interface for T/Sdéb8

Put an 85-232 port on your 1/S2068. Use it to drive a printer, plotter or “conventional® R5-232, Hayes compatible sodem. SPECTERM-G4 and THX-64 softwares can be used with the Z-SI/0 to operate at 1200 baud. JLO, AERCO and STOCK versions available. Fully supported and includes extensive documentation.

2X-TEAN*88 Terginal Softmare for T/S1888 (2X81,7T/S158@) Fred Wachbaur wrote this “unbelievable” terminal software for the 1/S1000 series computer. Its features are too numerous to list here, but among thea are 40, 60 and 80 column display and IMODEM. This is a MUST HAVE for 1/S1000 fans. Requires both a NVM (see SCRAM below) and a rampack. HI-RES on the T/S 1000, ¥Ov!

SPECTERH-64 (TS~4.1) ON TAPE. +es0e+S30.00 + $2,00 StH SPECTERM-64 (15-4.1) on p1sx..+0+00$30.00 + $3.00 StH TWX-64 BBS ON TAPE. seseseceveveess oSA0e00 + $2.00 SH Z-SI/0 RS-232c Sertan Inrerrace....$79.00 + $3.50 SEH ZX-TERM#80 (T/S1000 Ternrnac S¥)...$25.00 + $2.00 StH SCRAM (Bare Caro w/ Docs) ..+00000s812,50 + $2.00 S8H AVATEX 1200nc (100% Haves) Moven. $125.00 + $3.50 StH Tanoon SSTPI Drsx Drives (THi01-4).$45.00 + $5.00 S&H WAGHAVOX (13" RGB Honrtor 40}.....$255.00 + $13.75 S&H SEIKOSHA SP-+1200 Printer. ssss+00008230s00 + $7.50 SUH ‘Disxertes * Tares * Surce Suppressors * Kevpoarps * Power Surpites * Prinrer Parer * Minr-Vacs * Drsx Cases?

These are but a few of our “stocking stuffers". Send for the complete & 8 C COMPUTER PROMNICTS Catalog. Call or write for additional info on any product. To order send check or 4.0. (COD accepted on aost products) to:

Grey & Clitford COMPUTER PARAODUCTIS P.O. Box #2186 Inglewood, CA 90305 (213) 759-7406 (orders) or (213) 516-6648 (tech)

Innovative Timex/SINCLAIR Products and ITY Computer Supplies

*A HAPPY AND SAFE HOLIDAY SEASON* *FROM G & € FO YOU AND YOURS*

Time Designs Magazine Company 29722 Hult Road Colton, Oregon 97017 USA (503) 824-2658 CompuServe ID# 71350,3230

TIME DESIGNS MAGAZINE is published bi-monthly and is Copyright 1987 by the Time Designs Magazine Com- pany, Colton, Oregon 97017. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part by any means without written permission is prohibited by law.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $16.95 a year for six issues (U.S. funds only), mailed in the U.S. No extra charge for Canada or Mexico (mailed “surface” rate). All other countries please write for information on surface and air mail rates.

CUSTOMER SERVICE: Customer satisfaction is our goal. For subscription service problems, or any ques- tions and comments, please write.or call.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please call or write our office if there is any change in your current mailing address to prevent delay or even loss of service. The U.S. Postal Service will not always reliably forward magazines (believe us, not them!). Notify us as soon as you know of any changes.

RENEWAL TIME? To determine your expiration date, simply read the date posted in the upper-right corner of your mailing label (magazine cover). For an example, “Nov/89” would indicate that the November/December 1989 issue would be the last issue received. A form is provided elsewhere to renew your subscription. We also send one notice in case you forget. An early renewal is very much appreciated, and let us know we are doing an adequate job.

DEALERS, HARDWARE/JSOFTWARE DEVELOPERS: Write for our display ad rate card, and find out how you can reach the largest number of Timex Sinclair users in North America.

TIME DESIGNS is: Managing Editor: Tim Woods Assistant Editor: Stephanie Woods

Production Assistants: D. L. Woods Don Axmaker Kim Axmaker

Photography: (unless otherwise noted) Thomas B. Judd

Printing: Al Underberg and Toad’L Litho Printing & Com- position, Oregon City, Oregon 97045.

Frequent Contributors: Joe Williamson, Paul Bingham, Wes Brzozowski, Michael E. Carver, Tim Stoddard, Earl V. Dunnington, Syd Wyncoop, Zack Xavier Haquer, Fred Nachbaur, Mike de Sosa, Joe Newman, Stan Lemke, Duncan Teague, Albert F. Rodriguez, Bill Ferrebee, William C. Andrews, Dick Wagner, Dennis Silvestri, Gale Henslee, M. Vincent Lyon, J. Kevin Paulsen, Warren Fricke, Charles E. Goyette, Kenneth Fracchia, Dennis Jurries, Floyd Chrysler, D. Hutchinson, Herb Bowers, Sr., John McMichael, and others.

International Correspondent: R. Lussier

NOTICE: Contributors to TIME DESIGNS are independent of the TIME DESIGNS MAGAZINE CO., and opinions expressed in the contents of this publication are not necessarily those of the management sta‘f or its adver- tisers. Time Designs Magazine Co. will not be held liable for any damage or consequences resulting from instructions, assertions of fact, review of pro- ducts or companies provided in the magazine’s content. It is recommended that anyone attempting to modify their computer or construc ‘ing an elec- trical project should seek help from more knowledgeable individuals.

NOV/DEC ’87

TIME DESIGNS MAGAZINE

information for all models of SINCLAIR, TIMEX, and AMSTRAD personal computers. Serving North America and the International community.

Vol. 4No.1_

FROM THE EDITOR’S CLUTTERED DESK Tim Woods

Here We Go Again

With this issue-of TIME DESIGNS, we have come to a number of crossroads. Most predominately on my mind, is that we have just wrapped up three years of publishing and about to start our fourth year. Therefore, consider this an “Anniversary Issue".

I want to take a moment to thank everyone who has continued to help out with this magazine. This includes our staff, all of our contributors, our faithful ad- vertisers...and then there is you our readers. If you didn't bother to renew or write notes and letters, we would have certainly "hung up the hat" a long time ago. I may be a bit biased, but I feel this has been a worth- while project.

Then too, this is the "Holiday Season", so this could also be considered our special Christmas issue. Wherever you celebrate this time of year, may it be a joyous occaison to spend with both family and friends.

This issue is also devoted to TELECOMMUNICATIONS as promised in the previous issue. There are several other items of interest in case this subject isn't your cup of tea. But we will be continuing with our "themed" issues this year, and judging from all of the correspondence I have received, most everyone is in favor of this plan. More on "themed" issues in a moment.

We have also reached another crossroad. Allow me to explain a bit. Back in November of 1984, as we were in the process of putting together the first issue of TIME DESIGNS (a very crude effort), all of us Timex Sinclair users were awaiting the arrival of the Sinclair Quantum Leap computer here in the States. Sinclair Research had already set up their office in Boston, but as you may remember, it was several more months until the computer actually made it here.

But the idea of Sinclair Research actually offering us a brand new Sinclair computer, sort of took away the bad taste that Timex left in our mouth when they decided to quit selling computers.

The rest is history. Sinclair struggled here for a while, suffering from a poor (if not non-existant) marketing strategy, until. they packed up and left. Then even Sir Clive sold the major portion of his business tu a competitor. That move gave folks even more of an abandoned feeling. Yet because of some enterprising individuals, dealers and user groups, our Timex Sinclair community here in the U.S. has continued on, and still is a fairly strong group compared to other "orphaned" computer lines.

Now the time is November 1987. And just a few weeks ago, the story of stories came accross my desk: SIR CLIVE SINCLAIR IS RETURNING TO THE U.S. to market his new Z88 battery-powered laptop computer. It's true, but one can only speculate how long the "traditional" delay may be before these new machines reach our shores.

The first week of November, Sir Clive himself was here in Las Vegas to attend the FALL COMDEX electronics

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IF FLOPPY THEN SPECIFY DISK SIZE, SECTORS, WHAT ELSE YOUR USING.

GRIDLAND

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Here's gn Actual Copy of the SOCAL Sereen of tk appears on The Ob:

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INSIDE OF THE COMPUTER!

GRIDLAND HOLOCOST: Now vou cAN CONDUCT YOUR VERY OHN HuLTIPLAvER Nuclear War SIMULATION RIGHT WITHIN THE PRIVACY OF YOUR OWN HOME! Do IT INSIDE OF THE COMPUTER, RIGHT WHERE IT BELONGS. ALLOWS UP TO 8 PLAYER BASES. PHENOMENAL SOUNDS WHICH CAN BE DESELECTED. RADAR GRAPHICS WINDOW OF DETONATED RADIATION FIELoS. Uses Bartrstrc, Prose aNd CRUSE MISSILES WITH SELECTABLE MEGATON WARHEADS AND SHEILDING. EXCELLENT FOR SERIOUS INTERACTIVE HACKER GROUP DEVELOPHENT AND GENERAL SOCIAL GATHERINGS. A REAL NERD BUSTER! ITEM # G25..ceeees § 9.88

Quonzrx QCAL!: Menony Resroent Pop-Up Backcrouno CALANDER FOR THE QL. HERE'S A RESIDENT CALENDAR WHICH POPS UP WHEN vou TYPE QCAL. AvoING AN EXCLAMINATION MARK WILL HAINTAIN IT AS AN INDEPENDENT TASK WHICH CAN BE SWITCHED TO AT WILL. QcAL WILL DISPLAY THE CURRENT

MONTH AUTOMATICALLY OR ANOTHER PERIOD CAN BE ENTERED. HITTING THE ARROW & SHIFT KEYS WILL JUMP UP AND DOKN

BY EITHER MONTHS OR YEARS. ALSO INCLUDED IS A SEPARATE ANNUAL CALENDAR GENERATOR FOR PRINTING OR DISPLAYING A DESIRED 12 mONTH YEAR. A CaLenoarn HISTORY FILE Is

ALSO PROVIDED. EXCELLENT FOR FOR CONTINUOUS TIME FRAHE REFERENCE WHEN COMPOSING REPORTS. SYSTEM RE@uIRENENTS: RAM DISKING, MEMORY EXPANSION.

ITEM $ USO .ccccaccssecs § 9.60

QNONIX COMPUTER CHEF LIBRARY SYSTEM: Usznc QuzLL or PREFERRABLY THe DP EDITOR procraw, you CAN NOW CREATE MULTIPLE LIBRARY VOLUMES OF RECIPES WHICH ARE SORTED AND RETRIEVED WITH KEYWORD LOOKUP SYSTEM. ALSO INCLUDED ARE CUSTOM FILE CONFIGURATION UTILITIES AND FILTER PROGRAMS, HHICH MAKE THIS A COMPREHENSIVE RECIPE FILE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM. YOU CAN TAYLOR YOUR OKN SPECIFIC KEYHORD STANDARD LIST. NEARLY THO DOZEN INGREDIENT ABBREVIATIONS ARE AT YOUR DISPOSAL AS HELL. THE OLD RECIPE CARD FILE BOXES WHITH ALL OF THOSE CARDS SOILED WITH INGREDIENTS CAN NOH BE RETIRED - THEY ARE HISTORY! THe QL WILL PRINT OUT A DISPOSABLE

COPY OF THE SELECTED RECIPE AS IT IS NEEDED FOR USE.

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Expanpeo @L, FLP, Toorxzt II, HonrrorR Move. ten # SO7.....04.2.3 14.88

INTERACTIVE KEYBOARD DRILL SARGENT ey QNONIX: Nemonzze THE KEYBOARD AND TYPE WITH GREATER SPEED AND EFFICIENCY. IT MAKES NO DIFFERENCE WHETHER YOU'RE A NOVICE HHO NEVER TYPED BEFORE OR IF YOU'RE A PROFESSIONAL TYPIST HHO CAN DO 158 UPN! You WILL STILL BE EQUALLY CHALLENGED. VHY? Because THE SPEED OF EVERY FUNCTION OF THIS PROGRAM WILL ADJUST TO YOUR ABILITY! THere xs TOTAL EXTENSIVE USAGE of tHe QL's Cotor & SOUND CAPABILITY FOR AN INTERACTION EXPERIENCE THAT IS KEYED TO YOUR RESPONSE. WITH ALL THE BELLS & WHISTLES YOU'LL FORGET IT'S A DRILL AND THINK YOU'RE PLAYING A COMPUTER GAME. ITEH $ S$81...--6..8 18.88

SPECIAL ONLY UNTIL 12-31-87: ORDER MORE THAN 1 ond you can poy just $ 5.00 EACH for ANY of the OXON IX CODE PROGRAMS. Not just those listed here BUT ANY listed in the Catalog & Updates too! ALL QMONIZX Prograws are supplied in Special Little Color Tinted Plastic Cases Too!! DON’T HISS OUT ON THIS SPECIAL OFFER [!

QMOHTX ADDRESS BOOK: AN ADDRESS HANAGEMENT APPLICATION PROGRAM. PERFORMS ADDRESS FILE FUNCTIONS IN A SIMPLE AND ERSY MANNER. INSTANTLY SEARCHES FOR @NY ADDRESS OR PHONE NUMBER IN SEVEN OIFFERENT HAYS. PRINTOUTS MAY BE SORTED IN ANY OF THREE DISTINCT WAYS. FULL EDITING AND DEFAULT CONFIGURATION CAPABILITIES. Reaurres THE SurerTooiKrr II ey QIUNP. Trem & Bid. eww ae eee ees $19.95

exposition to show off his new invention to the press and other attendees. "It was the smallest portable at the COMDEX", was the general comment heard, and most of the large U.S. magazines are gearing up to do full write ups in upcoming issues.

CAMBRIDGE COMPUTER LTD is Sir Clive's new company that is responsible for producing the Z88. As you know, about a year ago, after facing tremendous financial problems, Sir Clive sold off the existing Sinclair tech- nology to Amstrad. This included both the Spectrum and the rights to the QL. Currently, Amstrad is marketing a 128K version of the Spectrum, which includes a built-in three inch floppy drive system.

Cambridge Computer has been selling the 2Z88 for several months now, at first by mail-order, and now in European department stores. But plans for a _ larger, world-wide market didn't start to materialize until Sir Clive joined forces with the international manufacturer SCI. SCI assembles the Z88 computer ina large factory in Scotland. Since SCI is also based in the U.S., and is a financial backer, the next logical progression was to bring the machine to the U.S. Cambridge Computer has already opened an office in New York.

Many Sinclair fans here in the U.S. all remember the bad business decisions that have followed Sir Clive in recent years. It appeared that the beloved entrep-

reneur was better in the "“brains" department, rather than trying to direct the accounting department. Such ideas as the C5 and the pocket tv have come and gone. Apparently now, the cards are stacked in the right places. Sir Clive has taken a back seat to marketing, letting more aggressive associates handle that end,

while he is free to conduct the creation of a variety of new revolutionary products.

—

Anamartic, another Sinclair Research development company, is at work on a new type of semi-conductor technology called "wafer-scale integration". When fully developed, it will virtually change the electronics field as we know it today. Computers will run faster, more efficient, and will be much more compact in size. The wafer-scale concept has been the dream of the chip industry for years.

Yet another company, Shaye Communications, is at work on another Sinclair concept, a new type of tele- phone, that will be part light-weight and cordless in the home, and when carried everywhere else, it will utilize cellular phone technology. Current cellular devices are priced at around $1000...this one will reportedly be in the $200 - $300 price range.

In another press interview, Sir Clive announced he is developing a 3D computer display, but wouldn't share any further details on the project.

Hopes are high here for the success of the Z88. It should be well accepted by our Timex Sinclair community, as it retains some of the original Sinclair character and it is a Z80 CPU-based design. Whether it will be a tremendous success, is yet to be seen. The original Sinclair ZX81 sold nearly a million units word-wide, partly due to its low-cost and its surprisingly powerful operating system. If Sir Clive can keep the price down below competition, get the word out, (it already has a powerful operating system...see our first report else- where in this issue), then we may see a re-birth of our favorite computer brand.

I would like to thank Bob Howard of W. Covina, CA who using his ham radio talents, was able to procure in- formation about Sir Clive's re-entry into the American computer market, from a friend (a Swedish diplomat) who was recently in London. And also thanks go to Larry Chavarie of Ontario, Canada, who continues to monitor the U.K. press for us.

arena Nn, Sees healer eeeemeneerean

Seattle Show A Success

On September 26th, well over 100 dedicated Timex Sinclair users got together for the Second Annual North- West TS Mini-Fair, which was held at the Masonic Temple in beautiful Seattle, Washington. The Mini-Fair was co- Sponsored by RMG ENTERPRISES and TIME DESIGNS, who were both in attendance as dealers. WEYMIL CORPORATION, another dealer also was in attendance. The members of the Seattle Timex User's Group (SEATUG) were hosts of the one-day event, and did an exceptional job. Three other northwest groups were represented, including VSUG (Vancouver, B.C., Canada), VISTA (Vashon Island, WA), and CCAT/S (Oregon). Some guests attended because of an article in the local paper, "The Seattle Times", and were were genuinely surprised to find out that the Timex Sinclair line was still supported.

The most popular portion of the show were the seven “mini-seminars" given by special guest speakers. Topics and speakers included Vince Lyon (author of "Archive Master") on QL Archive, Syd Wyncoop (TDM columnist) on Z80 Machine Code, Harvey Taylor (program author of Q LINK) on telecommunications, Michael Carver (a pro- grammer and TDM columnist) on 68000 chip architecture, Wilf Rigter (programmer of ZX81 high-res routines made popular by Fred Nachbaur...also designer of the "Delta Device") on getting maximum use from your 2ZX81/TS1000, John Scearce (of SEATUG) on TS2068 disk drive systems, and Dick Wagner (CCAT/S N/L editor) on 80 column dot- matrix printers. (Note: RMG Enterprises is offering a video tape of all seven mini-seminars for $15.95. Write to RMG for further info. 1419 1/2 7th Street, Oregon City, OR 97045.)

Next year's Mini-Fair is scheduled to be in the Portland, Oregon area some time near the end of August. Plans include to expand the show to the entire west- coast and surrounding states. Watch TDM for further details.

LEARN BY DOING

Want to do something unusual with your 2X81 or TS10007 Would you like to

control a personal

robot?

You can control an ultrasonic range finder with your

computer .

We have a "How To” book that details these fascinating projects.

We've got circuit boards and kits supporting the projects.

Need spare parts to repair your 2X81 or TS16007 We’ve got these parts too!

1 jalslensalaledesstsiahedsuiioonsssileloltelebabionbecnsibdedion’

BUDGET ROBOTICS & COMPUTING, BOX

INC.

Send for free price list ts: 18616 |

um

TS Winterfest

The San Francisco Sinclair show has been cancelled, but the SUNSTATE TIMEX SINCLAIR WINTERFEST is a go! It will be held on March 7-9, in Orlando, Florida at the Orlando Marriott (8001 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819). The three day show is being sponsored by four user groups from Florida, and is open to all interested Timex Sinclair users. The following TS dealers and companies will be in attendance: Variety Sales, Curry Computer, Quantum Computing, AFR Software, TS2068 Update Newsletter, Aerco, Markel Enterprises, Grey and Clifford Computer Products, Foote Software, Zebra Systems, and Time Designs Magazine. Some international companies have been invited (including Sir Clive!), and two surplus clectronic stores from the local area will be there.

Accomodations can be obtained at the convention site hotel, or from one of the surrounding area hotels. The surrounding attractions in the area will be great to take in after the show, including Walt Disney World (just five minutes away). Plan your family vacation now!

Advance tickets can be obtained for $5 single, $9 family (make checks payable to: Northeast Florida T/S Users Group). For complete information, you can write the director: Mary-Lynn Johnson, 249 N. Harden Ave., Orange City, FL 32763; or give the "official" BBS a call at (904) 775-0093. Settings are 8/1/N.

Business

The next issue of TIME DESIGNS will be devoted to the theme of "business". That is, the use of Sinclair's in conducting both personal and professional business. This theme comes as a response to a letter we published in the September/October '87 issue of TDM, in which a reader suggested hearing from others who use their computers for this particular application. This past month, our mailbox has been flooded with letters and cards from those who addressed this issue.

You will want to make sure.that your subscription is still current, as you just can't miss this next one! We will have six to eight interviews with individuals, ranging from shop owners, executives, to investment brokers who have passed up the PC "temptation", and in- stead have utilized their Sinclair hardware and software to conduct their affairs.

In the next issue, Herb Bowers, a retired federal auditor, will return with the all new 1987 FEDERAL INCOME TAX CALCULATOR program and article. He has just received the most updated information, and has com- pletely debugged and extensively checked his program out against the official IRS tables and instructions. Amaze your friends when you actually appear to understand the new tax code!

Bill Ferrebee will show us a simple modification to the old Timex program QUADRA CHART, to make it truly useful. And several other programs/articles will be featured.

The March/April '88 issue is slated for the theme of COMPUTER GRAPHICS. After that, we are wide-open for any suggestions for a theme you would like to see.

Dealers

Quite a number of advertisers in this "pre-Xmas" issue. We hope that you would take the time to read them and even write to these companies (or better yet, order their products!) for catalogs and brochures. They are part of the reason why TIME DESIGNS is still around, and why there is still stuff for your computer.

4

Great TS User Groups

--check them out! Have we listed your group's information lately? Send us the club's name/address for publication. Get noticed. Bring in new members!

North East Florida T/S Users Group c/o John Kuhn 1707 King St. Jacksonville, FL 32204

Greater New Haven Timex Sinclair User Group c/o. Dennis N. Silvestri _ 256 Lloyd St. New Haven, CT 06513

New York Timex/Sinclair Enthusiasts c/o Joe Newman 325 West Jersey St., #2D Elizabeth, NJ 07202

The old T.0.P.S newsletter for users of the Zebra FDD disk drive system (Timex Portugal), which was edited and produced by Dave Franson, has been resurrected by Ronald Havlen (4307 Chambers Rd., Horseheads, NY 14845).

If anyone has purchased this system and would like to receive further information, we urge you to contact Mr. Havlen. Or, if you know of someone who possesses such a system for their TS2068, please pass this info on to them.

We are quite impressed with the new publication and especially with the regularity with which it comes out. It should greatly enhance communication between Zebra users. Note: the newsletter is for users of both the older (3-piece) system and the newer FDD-3000, and even CP/M users.

WHAT IS A 15207 - The 1520 is a HI-RES 4-

color printer/plotter made fer Comaodore coaputers capable

of printing rotatable characters in 4 different sizes and

able to plot lines (solid or dashed) within a 480 by 1,996

step (0.2 ma/step) plotting area. Replacement pens & paper

are low priced & readily avail. at any RADIO SHACK store. eer eene

HOW AFFORDABLE? - The 1520 can be found at

TOYS-R-US stores for $29.95. The I/F hardware sells for

$14.95 (bareboard only), $20.95 (complete kit), & $30.95

(assembled & tested). All orders are shipped post paid.

Pee eeeeeee

SOFTWARE? - Currently, there are utilities for

interactive and automatic transfer of SCREEN$ to the 1520,

for making banners, & a patch kit allowing CMScript V5/5.2

files to be printed/plotted on the 1520. The software is priced at $8.95 ppd each and is fully docusented, Pee eee eens

USER FRIENDLY? YES! ! - All print/plot

directives are sent via BASIC “LPRINT" statements. PLOT &

DRAW commands in existing BASIC programs can easily be

replaced with their "LPRINT® plotter equivalents.

Send LSASE for more info./order form and a saaple plot tos eo John McMichael 0404 #¢¢@ #1710 Palmer Drive 644 4¢¢ \Laramie, WY 82070 644

.~ a pep — TO ALL FROM CURRY COMPUTER

Ins & Outs of 1668 AY)

Purful Proj. for T/S 95 16k Ram Pak Compt I/F Techs A) 32K Ram Pak 95 64K Ram Pak i *) Hawolalc 5 HenmolText HRG I/F 34, T/S 1868 Compt Pad

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Coin-Op Hits...$13.95 Paper Boy...316.95 (5 Hits for 1 price) (Just like Arcade) Top Dack Printer Poper Catcher

638

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LOTS OF NEW TITLES»

: a COMING!!! ; FOR SINCLAIR OL

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Trump Card-- 768k, Disk I/F, TK2, ond more $299 Concent SD...sseees $29.95 Ele Dasscccaucesuce Centronics Interface 34, Locksmithe..s.eseas 19.95 R5232 Cable LocksmithetdHatter, 39.95

5

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fideo Gomes, Atari ce atori ST er C64 User... «$4 ea or 3 fort@.58

NEW PRODUCTS

: ANNOUNCEMENT For TS2068 and SPECTRUM

Novelsoft

brings Artificial Intelligence to the Timex/Sinclair

Introducing...

fa KPERU

Z2xPErt

ZXpert lets you explore the reasoning process of human experts. With ZXpert you can create an Expert System on any topic you like!

* A useful and educational program * Includes 2068 & Spectrum versions

* Easy and fun to use * Supports Microdrives

* No programming language to learn * Two example knowledge bases

* On-line help * Superb Manual with Tutorial plus...

Once you have developed a useful knowledge base, with your permission NovelSoft will sell it and pay you a royalty!!!

Join the revolution with...ZXpert $19.95 U.S. Plus $3.000S & H

Novel/Soft

NEW ADDRESS: 4 FORMAT FOR THE FUTURE

35 Candle Liteway, Willowdale, Ontario, Canada M2R 3J5 phone (416) 665-0290, Compuserve ID# 72477,326

PRODUCTS

For TS2068 and SPECTRUM

VERSION 1.1

¢ Pull-Down Menus e Auto-Speed Control

© Several Brushes © Magnify & Reduce

e Spray © Rotate & Mirror

° Auto-Fill ® Full Attribute Control

¢ Zoom ® Fully Elastic Shapes including Circle, e Undo Box, Triangle, Ray and Line

© Several Text Fonts ¢ Fast Ellipse and Arc

e Cut & Paste Windows

© Includes Spectrum & TS2068 Versions e Supports Microdrives and Kempston Joystick © Includes GALLERY, the slide show/animator e 5 Samples of Artwork © Excellent Manual

Unshackle your creativity with ... ARTWORX!! ARTWORX V1.1 - $19.95 U.S. plus $3.00 S & H

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NEW ADDRESS: 35 Candle Liteway, Willowdale, Ontario, Canada phone (416) 665-0290, Compuserve ID# 72477,326

Novelsoft

A FORMAT FOR THE FUTURE

M2R 335

| IN THE MAILBAG

Need For

Dimgqgnostic Software

[In the July/August issue] you solicited from your readers who could repair our computers, as a hobby" you said. It is my opinion that we within our “community” the talent to write diagnostic software to aid in that repair. Hewlett Packard move over. Repair with such an aid is almost a sure thing. I bet one or more writers in collaboration could write a program using graphics that would have details including component placement that would require the "repairman" have only good soldering skills. I bet this program could even run on a 1000 that a 2068 owner had all but disgarded. Because, if we can't keep ‘em running, they will just die on our desks. But, being able to repair them will keep them running virtually forever! And _ the longer they live, the longer their support lives.

replies “even have

John J. Shepard III Coldwater, Mississippi

Editon: Bravo, John! A very good idea. And even if there ane those that don't prefer to solder, they could at Least be more knowLedgeable when discussing the problem with the repainman. A sophisticated diagnostic program could even "self-test" areas Like the ROM and the RAM to pinpoint the trouble. Color patterns generated on the TS2068 could even help fine tune the video circuitry. And of course if anyone does come up with a program such as this, they are welcome to submit it to TIME DESIGNS for possible publication.

Spectrum User

Shares Froagrams

I was obliged to return to the U.S. after spending several years in Barcelona, where at a language school I worked for, we used Spectrums extensively. They lend themselves wonderfully and inexpensively to programs I was writing, dealing with all phases of the English language. I brought a Spectrum Plus back home with me, unaware that there were enough of them in this country to justify a magazine and software companies, so I've been happily surprised.

I'd like to offer a couple of little utility pro- grams I was able to acquire, ones which I used fre- quently. The first one is used to put in the unerasable Line 0, useful for adding a copyright notice or anything else, and once in the program, it's there for good, un- less an advanced hacker comes along and figures out how to erase it. When you have entered the desired legend in Line 2, RUN it. You will then have Line 0 with this same

info. Now erase Line 1 and you have your permanent legend.

The second listing is a program that will erase large blocks of listings, even entire programs, in a

the “tool had to out for a

split second, almost before you get your finger off ENTER key. I once bought one of those commercial kit" programs with a DELETE feature, but if you

erase 100 lines of listing, you could go leisurely cup of coffee while waiting. This little program does it instantaneously. I chose to use Lines 9960 to 9990 only because I never used them for anything

“NO-DELETE"

else. You can use any line numbers you wish, making the necessary internal changes in GOTO's. Now, of course, simply MERGE this into the program you plan to modify.

The program erases any portion of a listing you want, even itself, but one caution: if there are any UDG's in the program, they will become distorted with each use of them. This is no cause for concern. .Once the revised listing has been SAVEd and the Spectrum is unplugged briefly, no problem. It's just that this delete program leaves a residue of oddball things in RAM that have to be cleared out completely, not just NEW'ed. If another program is loaded without completely emptying the memory this residue will play undesirable tricks with the UDG's if any are present.

I hope a few people might find these items useful,

and it's nice to know that the Spectrum lives on here in the U.S.

Randall E. Larson Tucson, Arizona

PROGRAM:

1 LET a=PEEK 23637+256*#PEEK 23638: POKE a,O:

POKE at+1,0: 2 REM Any message you want here after the REM

STOP

BLOCK DELETION PROGRAM

9960 REM DELETE; after using, clear memory completely 9945 CLEAR 65499: RESTORE 9975: LET a=65500

9968 READ ns IF n=257 THEN GO TO 9980

9970 POKE a,n

9973 LET a=ati: GO TO 9948

9975 DATA 33,0,0, 229, 335,0,0, 35, 205, 110, 25, 227, 205, 110,25 9978 DATA 32,1,235, 225, 167, 237, 82, 216,25, 205, 229, 25, 201, 257 9980 CLS : PRINT "Start :"3:2 INPUT as PRINT a

9983 PRINT “End :"3: INPUT b: PRINT b

9985 POKE 465501,a-256*INT (a/256): POKE 65502,INT (a/2564) 9988 POKE 65505,b-256*INT (b/2546): POKE 65506,INT (b/256) 9990 RANDOMIZE USR 65500

QL Bar Code

Reader anyone?

Does anyone know where one could obtain a bar code reader program (and interface) for the Sinclair QL computer?

Joe E. Jenkins 3100 Mockingbird Amarillo, TX 79109

Public Domain Program

I am writing to announce that I am putting one of

my programs, T/S GRADER for the 2068 in the public domain. I am busy with other projects and see little purpose in extensive advertising for such a limited

market. On the other hand, it is the best program of its type that I have seen (I wrote it because I was dis- satisfied with other similar programs) and I want any interested persons to be able to obtain it. Therefore, any owners are free to give copies of the program and documentation to friends, user groups, etc. with no obligation to me.

It features machine code speed so you can see any student record or class record in about a second. It handles up to 255 classes simultaneously, each class can have up to 46 students, and each student can have up to 66 grades. For example, you could have 303 students, each with 66 grades, and divided into 7 classes. Or you

may prefer something like 1275 students, each with 5 grades, divided into 28 classes. Students can be added to any class, deleted, or transferred between classes.

Each class can be alphabetized. Grades are numeric be- tween 0 and 254, each class can have grades weighted separately, bonus and demerit points can be given, and you can do statistical analysis of the grades. You can also calculate semester or yearly averages. Missed tests need not be averaged in.

There are many more features in this $20 program. If someone can not find a friend to make a free copy, I will still sell it for $15 since it is a lot of trouble for me to make individual copies of the documentation. I really prefer that they get it elsewhere if possible.

Robert C. Fischer 804 Old York Hwy, North Apt 3-B Dunlap, TIN 37327

Cinristmas Greeting

A friend of mine has sent an interesting computer program that was used on some Christmas cards that he sent out. The mathematics involved. shows a great deal of thought and experimentation to achieve the desired re- sult. Listing #1 will work only on a computer that uses the standard ASCII character set, such as the TS2068. The program was written by Bob Lodge of Seattle, WA. Listing #2 is a version that has been written for the TS1000 which does not use the standard ASCII character set. :

Thank you for publishing such a fine and unique magazine. I hope to see more “quick and easy" programs like the “Just For Fun" department in the defunct SYNC magazine.

Eric J. Kongs Wilmington, California

Listing #1

10 REM GREETINGS 20 REM BOB LODGE, 30 FOR A=1 TO 2 40 FOR B=1 TO 4 50 LET X=2-ABS(SGN(B-3))

60 FOR C=1 TO X

70 PRINT CHR$(84-7*A+5x*B-8*X) ; 80 NEXT C:NEXT B

90 PRINT CHR$(A+31);

100 NEXT A

1986

Listing #2

10 FOR A=1 TO 2

20 FOR B=1 TO 4

30 LET X=2-ABS(SGN(B-3))

40 FOR C=1 TO X

60 PRINT CHR$(57-7*A+5*B-8*X) ; 70 NEXT C

80 NEXT B

90 PRINT CHR$ (27 AND A=2); 100 NEXT A

"Get bucky” Reviadi tec

In reference to the article by Bill Ward on page 7

[of the September/October issue], I have enclosed a program listing created on the TS1000 for producing numbers for the California lottery. This lottery re-

quires six numbers from 1 to 49, with no repeats. I have not yet had enough nerve to try any of my numbers!

Love the mag, except there is too much non-T/S 1000 stuff!

Chapman Burk El Cerrito, California

Editor: This Lottery thing is really catching on. Next 4hsue we've got one for the Ohio Lottery and a nevised Listing for the one in Florida. Good to see. the TS1000 din on the action. I won't even attempt to touch that Last comment, We have equal number of TS2068 people who say there 44 too much non-2068 stuff, the QL people feek there 48 too much non-QL stuff, and perhaps the 788 owners wikh feek the same. Seriously though, we are tnying to offer a "balanced" publication.

1 REM # DRAWS WINNING NUMBERS FOR LOTTERY + 3 REM # 18 SETS ARE DRAWN + 10 RAND @ 48 PRINT “18 SETS OF LOTTERY W IHNERS ARE: " FO PRINT €Q LET E=43 SU FOR F=1i To 18 168 PRINT Fi"."; 118 GI ACS) 128 FOR N=1 To 6 136 LET T=INT tRND+SE) 135 REM _+# DELETE ZEROES # 148 IF T=8 THEN GOTO 269 145 REM + DELETE DUPLICATE NOS.

158 LET ACN) =T 160 FOR H=1 TO N-1

178 IF T=AtN) THEN GOTO 266 150 NEXT OM 198 PRINT TAB 208 NEXT N

(Ned420 373) "55

: LET N=N-1 278 GOTO 268

na

WHICH SYSTEM DO YOU USE?

RAMEX MILLENIA K DISK

Reader Tips and Hints for Mass-Storage

Send us your tips, hints, short program listings or whatever you might have that pertains to disk drives, microdrives, wafadrives, even cassettes, and we will print as many as possible. This is NOT a TS2068 column only. So TS1000 mass storage system owners get your printers warmed up to, and send in your tips. Spectrum and QL owners too!

DORIVE SYSTEM csSPbDOS>

AUTO FILES An Under Utilized Facility

Munson H. Cockayne Jr.

Recently, I wrote a letter to TDM about Millenia-K users, and received many replies from RAMEX and SPDOS users alike. Many replies and many questions. I tried to answer all the questions on an individual basis, but ex- perience tells me that the replies were just the "tip of the iceburg".

Some of the common problems were: |

1. Converting files to run from disk.

2. Not knowing what "Sequential File" means.

3. Inability to find out more about the system.

Along with these direct questions, I detected a distinct under-utilization of the AUTO facility that is available with SPDOS and other disk systems for the

TS2068. I hope to have the opportunity to present some of the other subjects at a later date. This time I want to cover some of the ways AUTO can be used to your advantage.

The manual states that a BASIC program saved with the name "AUTO", will be automatically loaded upon in-

itialization of the system. If this BASIC program is saved with a LINE on which to start, you will have a disk which automatically loads your chosen program. This is a great.way to create dedicated disks that can enable others in your household, less computer literate than you, to make use of the computer. I have a disk set up with -OMNICALC II as an AUTO file that my wife uses to keep the household budget straight.

An even better use might be to make an AUTO file from a MC program. The manual states that a MC file will be automatically loaded and execution will proceed from the first byte of that file. Now you can make your printer interface software automatically load! "My in- terface MC doesn't start execution at the first byte of the code." Neither did mine!

I use a Tasman Parallel Interface (modified to a "Cc" revision as detailed in the user manual). From a look in the Tasman information sheet, "tasintcode" runs from 64716 for a total of 652 bytes. To initialize I call 64719. To make it work right with the disk AUTO function, I counted back three bytes from the start. This gave me 64713. Next I looked up the code for an absolute jump (JP) in MC which is 195 decimal (page 244 of the TS2068 users manual), I calculated the high byte of the address 64719 as 252 (INT (64719/256)), and I

calculated the low byte as 207 (64719-256*252). With this information and the code loaded into protected memory, I POKEd 64713,195; 64714,207; 64715,252 (in-

struction; low byte; high byte). Now all I had to do was PRINT #4; SAVE "AUTO" CODE 64713,655. (652 plus the three bytes I added). Executing a NEW resulted in an "ok" report. I use this AUTO printer routine on my develop- ment disks. That way the printer is automatically ready for LISTing and PRINTing anything I want.

In addition to using this file as an AUTO file, it can be renamed with a single character name (maybe "p" for printer).-When this file is pulled up with the optional syntax, PRINT #4'p, the MC will AUTO execute. The short program in this article demonstrates this, but more on that in another article.

One other way to make the system more automatic is to use a program to drive the system. This concept is called making a shell for the DOS. A basic program, like the one that follows, is a simple shell if the programs that are loaded by it either reload the shell program or execute a NEW on termination (PRINT #4: LOAD "AUTO" will reload this shell). This program is simple and much more elaborate schemes could be made. Leave the ON ERR statements out if you prefer, but they make the program unstoppable by normal means. (You have to use a_ symbol shifted "B".)

1 ON ERR RESET: ON ENR GO TO 2aaa

@ PRINT 45% p

3 60 SUR Zaaa

PRINT "CATALOGUE: "tt

FOR Imi TO TITLES

B@ PRINT 157} "gTRCE)

NEXT X

PRINT #1; "PRESS HW OF CHOICE” PAUSE @

LET Re=INKEYS

CLS

IF Re="*" THEM OM ERR RESET: STOP IF RE" AND Rate STAS TITLES THEN OM ERR RESET: PRINT #43 LOAD Te(VAL RH)

11@ GO To 14 1@@@ OM ERR RESET 1@1@ GM ERR GO TA 1aze CLs

LAA

1@30 FRINT AT 14,4; "DON'T STOP THE PROGRAM!”

19$@ FOR [=1 TO 1@: BECP .1,.013 BEEF .O5,10; NEXT I igse CLS

1860 GO TO 10

2AGa OM ERR COMTIBUE

we

Baga LET TITLES = G

B@Qia DIM Te<( TITLES, i@)

9e20 FOR T=1 TO TITLES: REBH Fatrd>: NEXT F Base CLE

B3@4e OM ERR GOTO 18a. RETURM 89380 DATA “RPHONEDOGK”

B38 DATA “PANTRY”

BIQ2 DATA "BIG—RHYTHM”

BIGS DATA “FAMILY BIO”

B3IO4 DATA "LOANER”

9305 DATA "“TASHWORD’”’

3305 DATA "MATL LIST”

BIQ7 DATA "DANHERS!”

Line 2 is the line that demonstrates how to use a printer driver that has been modified to AUTO LOAD. The name is changed to "p" from "AUTO" and can be called as

done here. The titles in lines 9900 on should be changed to your own titles. I use this for our "family" disk at home. This can be safely RUN because there is a pro- vision for STOPping it and DOS cannot load my filenames from your disk unless you have files with the same titles. Don't forget to change line 9000 to set TITLES to the number of files you have named in DATA lines.

As I have stated, this is a simple shell. A more elaborate one might include things like MOVEing from disk to disk, renaming, ERASEing, etc. Let's see what kind of ideas you can generate! As always, I am avail- able for comments, questions, and problems at: 342 Trotter Court, Sanford, FL 32773.

ZEBRAYTIMEX FDD DISK SYSTEM

Directory Track Reader

Michael C. Finn

The following program was written on anold model Zebra Disk Drive. Owners of the newer FDD 3000 may wish to run this program and report on the results. I don't know whether there are any software differences between the two models.

The disk drive controller formats the 3 inch disk into 40 tracks, numbered 0 to 39, each containing 4 K bytes. Each track is subdivided into 16 sectors, num- bered O to 15, each containing 1/4 K or 256 bytes. The first four tracks (0 to 3) are reserved for the op- erating system. Track 4 contains the directory. Tracks 5 through 39 contain the files you saved to disk. When a disk is intially formated, TOS sets up 40 tracks, writes a copy of TOS to tracks 0 through 3, places the disk name in the first sector of track 4 and sets all unused bytes to OE5 h (229 qd).

The Zebra Disk Drive Technical Manual remarks that the contents of the directory track can be read using the extended Basic command. INPUT *#0. After some trial and error, I found a suitable method to read this track using a Basic program.

I numbered this program beginning with line 200. You may wish to merge this program with a utility pro- gram which reads disk headers. One such program is Chuck Dawson's DISKREAD, which was published in Vol., No.l of the (now defunct) T.O.P.S. newsletter. DISKREAD, or a similar utility, could be used to obtain further details on the directory contents.

Lines 205 to 210: You have a choice of sending out- put to the screen or direct to your printer. The printer could be an 80 column printer. The 80 column printer drive I use, adjusts the addresses used for channel number 3, so that this channel drives my 80 column printer. For those without a full size printer, channel 3 contains the TS2040 I/O addresses from normal RAM initiation on initial power-up.

Line 215: The CAT * command is required to remove a "bug". After I first ran this program, I inserted a new disk and ran the program again. Instead of getting the directory of the new disk, I got the directory of the prior disk. Adding the CAT * command reset whatever internal buffer is involved with "#0". Note that O is not a valid channel number in other TOS commands. (Editor: Space doesn't allow us to print all of the program notes for this listing. If you would like to receive a copy of the entire documentation, just send a legal SASE to TIME DESIGNS, and we will send you a copy]

200>REM DIRECTORY READER by Mike Finn

20S PRINT AT 10,0;'"'SELECT PRINT OUT DEVICE :''’’’"'l TV SCREEN''’’ "2 > PRINTER''

208 INPUT LINE Z$: IF Z$<"1"' O R Z$>''2'' THEN GO TO 208

210 LET Z=1+VAL Z$

215 CLS : CAT *

220 PRINT #Z’’''THIS PROGRAM WIL L ITEMIZE THE ENTRIES ON TRACK 4 OF THE DISK."

225 PRINT #Z

230 INPUT "PRESS ENTER TO CONTI NUE. "; LINE B$: CLS

240 RESTORE *#0

300 FOR I=1 TO 128

310 INPUT *#0;A$;AT I

320 IF CODE A$(1)=229 THEN PRI NT #Z;"RECORD '';1;'' IS EMPTY.": GO TO 720

325 PRINT #Z’"RECORD: "';I

330 PRINT #2Z;"LEVEL: '";CODE A$( 1) ;"' ";"DISK NAME" AND (CODE A$= 2S5)

340 PRINT #Z;"NAME: '';A$(2 TO 9 >

350 LET A=CODE A$(10): IF A>=12 8 THEN LET A$(10)=CHR$ (A-128): PRINT #Z;TAB 6;'"'PROTECTED CATAL OG ENTRY"

360 LET A=CODE A$(11): IF A>=12 8 THEN LET A$(11)=CHR$ (A-128): PRINT #Z;TAB 6;"INVISIBLE CATAL OG ENTRY"

370 PRINT #2Z;"TYPE: '';A$(10 TO 12)

380 IF A$(10 TO 12)="'DIR" THEN PRINT #Z’"THIS DIRECTORY CONTAI

NS ALL FILES AND SUBDIRECTOR IES WITH LEVEL NUMBER '';CODE A $(17) ;""."": GO TO 700

390 PRINT #Z;''EXTENSION #: '';CO DE A$ (13)

400 PRINT #Z;''BYTES LAST SECTOR : '';CODE A$ (14)

410 LET S=(256*CODE A$ (15) +CODE A$ (16))/2

420 PRINT #Z;''# SECTORS WITH DA TA: ";S

430 PRINT #Z;''BLOCK ALLOCATION:

440 FOR J=17 TO 24

450 PRINT #2;TAB 6;CODE A$(J) ;T AB 16;CODE A$(J+8)

460 NEXT J

S00 LET T=(S-1) *256+CODE A$ (14) +(256 AND (CODE a$(14)=0))

510 PRINT #2;''TOTAL FILE BYTES: Wet

520 LET Al#INT (8/4)

$30 LET A2=S-4*A1

S90 PRINT #Z;''UNUSED BYTES IN A LLOCATION: '';1024*(A1+(1 AND (A2 <>0)))-T

600 LET A1=INT (CODE A$(17) /4) 610 LET TRACK=4+A1

620 LET A2=CODE A$(17)-4*Al

630 IF A2=0 THEN LET A2=4

640 LET SECTOR=16-4*A2

650 PRINT #Z;''ALLOCATION BEGINS :"’ TAB 6;''TRACK '';TRACK;TAB 16;" SECTOR '';SECTOR

700 INPUT ''PRESS ENTER OR KEYWO RD STOP ''; LINE BS: IF BS$=CHRS$ 2 26 THEN GO TO 800

710 CLS

720 NEXT I

800 RESTORE *#0

810 STOP

11

A FIRST LOOK

Sir Clive’s Newest Microchip

Wonder

Tim Woods

INTRODUCTION

Let's just imagine for a moment that we have access to a Time Machine (the stuff science fiction is made of). And while we're at it, let's set the dial backwards

into time to say, mid 1982. Not a remarkable year, but if your still following along with this scenario, you may remember the significance of this time, especially

if you are a confirmed Sinclair "junkie".

Yes, this was the golden age of the small home computer, and Sir Clive Sinclair (known fondly as "Uncle Clive" by his followers) introduced a new personal computer to the American public called the ZX8l. It was actually a more powerful version of an earlier model (the ZX80).

The Sinclair ZX81 was small, light weight, and was black in color. It had an unusual keyboard. The micro- processor was a Z80 (over all, there were only about four chips internally) and the operating system was surprisingly powerful considering it was the first computer to sell for under $100.

Now let's power up our Time Machine again, and jump back to where we started. It's 1987 (almost 1988). Five full years later and Sir Clive has just introduced a new computer again. It's a battery-powered, self-contained, laptop computer called the 288.

Remarkably, the Z88 possesses many similarities with its predecessor, the ZX81. It is small (8" X 11.5" and less than an inch thick), it weighs right at two pounds with the batteries installed, and it is black in color. And yes, keeping true to tradition, it has an unusual keyboard...more on that shortly. The micro- processor is a Z80 (internally there are only four chips), and the computer's operating system is extremely powerful for it's size and cost.

AN OVERVIEW

The Z88 computer tested for this review was pur- chased from Sharp's Inc. (Rt 10, Box 459, Mechanics- ville, VA 23111, phone 804-746-1664) for $399.95. Mark

{ Sharp's 18 importing then ftom Great Britain. ‘as ; bho . golls fot ground £299 in England. But currently,

12

the U.S. dollar is extremely weak right now and with the current currency exchange rate, the computer would actually cost $530. The suggested retail cost for the U.S. model will reportedly be $499.

Another credit for help in this review goes to Mr. Sven Nilsson of the Las Vegas Timex Sinclair Users Group. He attended the Fall COMDEX and was able to get ahold of a copy of the official press packet (and also a photograph of Sir Clive showing off his new machine; un- fortunately I:was unable to get the photo ready for this issue...will print it next issue). The press packet re- lated some information not included in the computer's User Guide.

Our computer arrived safely in the mail. It's packaging material has a plastic handle and doubles as a carrying case. Only the Z88 computer and the User Guide are in the box. Gone are the usual array of power supplys, cables, and TV switch box. The User Guide is very good..clearly written and informative. I believe someone who has never been exposed to a computer before would feel comfortable with the Z88. The manual that accompanies the Sinclair QL is awful compared to the simplicity of the Z88's User Guide. My only complaint is that there could have been more coverage in some areas, but I assume that additional documentation will be re- leased soon.

Four AA alkaline batteries are required. They are inserted in a slot on the underneath side. The manual states that a fresh set of batteries will last 20 hours of heavy computer use (even with optional RAM cards in- stalled). I used DURACELL's and was able to run _ the computer for about 30 hours before it automatically signalled that the batteries needed to be changed. When it is time to install new ones, an internal "super capacitor" keeps a charge to the RAM for up to six minutes, all data stored in memory will remain intact.

Supposedly, you can store data for up to one year in the computer (this is with the power switch off) with a set of batteries. There is also a connection for a 6 volt

This

power adapter, for when you use the Z88 at home. connector is on the left side of the computer.

is} stand our 1a Spreads OPTIONS PRINT

z 2 3 3 3 a

ANAK Sw

Site purchase Site preparation

PIPEDREAM

Screen display example shows how PIPEDREAM can mix both word processor and spreadsheet func- tions to prepare a report. On

the left side are the seven menu options. On the right side of the screen is an area called the

ON/OFF Press botn: wins) Keys. [Geiete ani cheracler Tas | Cot expreasion 750) | Cotuma wncin Retormat paragraon © | Swap case O-B6. | Nest option

"display map". It is a graphic representation of a sheet of

A plastic stand on the underneath side of the 288 flips down to provide a nice tilt when using it on a table top. The keyboard is more comfortable this way, and the display is easier to see.

The built in LCD display is an interesting bit of high technology. It was designed and manufactured by Epson in Japan using the new Super-Twist display (name is derived by the way the liquid crystal molecules con- tort themselves to block the light whenever a voltage is applied). The screen packs a lot of information--8 lines by up to 90 characters wide. It is fast and there is no "flicker" as is usual for garden variety LCD displays. A small knob on the left side of the computer adjusts the constrast of the display for using the computer in different light source situations. However a brightly lighted room is ideal. Lower light levels tend. to strain the eyes a bit. All of the screen characters and graphics are a nice blue color, while the background is grey.

My first impression of the keyboard was somewhat different than what it is now. The Z88 keyboard is in- teresting in that it is molded froma single sheet of soft latex rubber and is bonded to a standard membrane switchboard. Each key is raised, but travels just a small distance to make a contact. I guess the "feel" could best be described as that of a 151500 (or early Spectrum) with the size and spacing of a TS2068. At

WHAT’ S INSIDE?

contrast adjustment

5.5v cartridge edge 0.047F connectors (3) "super cap."

128K EPROM (our test unit is ver. 2.2.)

display connector and cable

NEC 32K RAM

paper. Since only eight lines are visible in the work space, the display map is a handy tool.

first I was skeptical, but I quickly adapted to it, and now I actually like it (even for touch-typing). The intended purpose of this type of keyboard, according to Sir Clive, is to be silent in a classroom or even a library environment...it doesn't have the "clicking" sound of a full travel keyboard with real contacts. There is also another benefit that I ‘discovered. Since it is just one piece, if something is spilled onto the keyboard, it could be easily wiped up, without per- manently damaging key contacts.

The Z88 contains the simplest operating system I have ever used. Cambridge Computer (Sir Clive's new company responsible for the development of the 288) calls the operating system "OZ" (like the clever wizard in the Frank Baum classic children's book). The casual or novice user simply moves about the screen with the cursor keys, a bar highlights commands on the menu, when a particular function or command is located (and high- lighted with a bar) the user simply presses ENTER. The more advanced user can commit special commands to memory to bypass the menu-driven function. Using the special diamond } and box (] command keys along with one or two other keys, all of the functions are quickly available in an instant. The most frequently used commands are permanently printed on a panel just below the Z88's display.

Continued Next Page.

#.. keyboard connectors

7 CMOS-type Zilog 280 CPU (low power consumption )

Crystal 9.83040 MHz

expansion port

NEC custom

gate array chip 1" speaker

BUILT-IN SOrrTrTwaRre

When the Z88 is first powered-up, the user is con- fronted with a small menu box on the left side of the display. It shows what programs and utilities are on- board and permanently stored in the computer's memory. Internal software is divided into two types; "“applica- tions" and "popdowns".

"PIPEDREAM" is the most unique application program included with combination of a fully implemented spreadsheet, and a simple database.

Another application program is the "DIARY". It is like having a pad of paper to jot down notes or keep a journal (it can be controlled and used in coordination with the internal calendar, clock, and multi-function alarm clock).

The Z88 comes with BBC BASIC. Old Sinclair hands may turn up their nose upon hearing this. BBC BASIC is very close to Microsoft BASIC, and is used in several European computer brands. Since Sir Clive sold his own Sinclair BASIC and SuperBASIC to Amstrad, he had to select another version. Perhaps the saving grace of this BASIC is that it includes a built-in 280 machine code assembler. Users can then by-pass the BASIC and program in code.

Other application programs include a terminal (emu- lates the VT52 protocol) for telecommunications and a built in printer driver which can be customized.

"Popdowns" are different in that they can be called up instantly from any point, even while working on any of the application program, and then exit back to the program with out interrupting anything you were working on. Real multi-tasking on a Z80 machine! An example of how this would work, would be--using the word processor for preparing a year-end financial report for your company, you may need to use the calculator to do some quick figuring--easy to do on the 288.

"Popdowns" included with the Z88:

"INDEX" - Similar to a main menu from which other functions branch, but also keeps track of the status of the optional memory cards.

"CALCULATOR" - Includes scientific functions and a units-conversion facility.

"CALENDAR" — A perpetual calendar, and any month or year can be examined. Might be useful for students of history.

"CLOCK" - Displays current date and time.

"ALARM" — A fully programmable multi-function alarm which can also display messages and reminders. Can even be set to execute and run a program.

and most powerful the zZ88. It is a word processor, a

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"PILER" - When files have been created in any of the application programs, they can be sent to the Filer. From here you can store the data files in internal RAM, option RAM cards, on an EPROM card, or mass storage devices (disk drives) that may be developed for the 288 in the future. Files can be stored in a simple directory or the option of using a flexible hierarchical directory system similar to MS-DOS.

"IMPORT/EXPORT" - This utility allows the user to transfer data and files via the built-in serial port to another external computer, and retrieve them back again. This function is just another way that the Z88 can save information. Special software packages (required) are being developed along with cable sets to attach and use virtually any popular computer. The software will signal

eycecnial computer to open a file. The only require: i ve that the computer. be equipped with a serie!

port. Available packages at this time include the

TBM PC

(and compatibles), the BBC Micro (European), and the Sinclair QL. Available soon for the Commodore 64/128, Atari ST, Apple II series, and the MacIntosh. The soft- ware package for the IBM is called "PC-LINK" and in- cludes a utility on disk that converts Z88 files into WORDSTAR and LOTUS files.

"PANEL" — Let's the user customize the Z88. Func- tions include: Auto key repeat rate, turn the speaker on/off, keyclick on/off, and setting parameters of the built-in RS232 Serial port (baud rate, parity, etc.),

HOW

THE WEG THU

THE FoRTS

As mentioned above, there is a standard RS232 built in, on the right side of the Z88. It can be

port used

to attach the computer to a printer, or to a modem. The serial port is also the link to an external computer. Also on the right side, is an expansion port. No

pin-out diagram of this port was available in the lit- erature I received. Several of the pins are direct un- buffered connections to the Z80 CPU. The User Guide does hint at a disk drive system that Cambridge may offer. Peripherals like the disk drive, and perhaps a_ board that will allow the Z88 to be connected to a_ standard monitor, will be attached to this port.

faa | eee eee eee

14

Just underneath the front lip of the 288 is a hinged clear plastic door that reveals three cartridge docks. They are clearly labeled "1, 2, and 3". When the door is opened, the Z88 automatically powers down as a safety feature (when closed again, and power is re- stored, any work in progress will not be distrubed).

Several types of memory cards (or cartridges) are available from Cambridge Computer. Extension RAM cards can be used in all three slots. Currently, 32K and 128K

RAM cards can be purchased. The Z88 has 32K built in (only about 20K is available for BASIC programming and data files). With three 128K cards installed, plus the

internal RAM, one would have approximately 400K to work with. But the big news is that 1 Mbyte RAM cards will be available early next year. A total of 3 Mbyte with three of these cards on board! Cambridge states that the entire works of Shakespeare can be stored in RAM. This much power is almost unheard of in a battery powered laptop.

EPROM cards can also be used in all three slots (32K and 128K) for preprogrammed software or data files. A blank EPROM can be fitted into slot three, which has a built in EPROM "burner" circuit to permanently save data.

ONLY SURFACE SCRATCHED

We have just scratched the surface. This is an impressive little computer and we will continue this discussion next issue. All manner of possibilities that involve our other beloved Sinclairs can be imagined (how about carrying your TS2068 or QL files with you wherever you go?). I have demonstrated this computer to quite a number of people...everyone I show it to, wants one! A few balk at the price. If Sir Clive ever gets the price

down below the $399 - $499 range, the whole world will want one of these.

ee

ie.

PART FOLR

Greetings programmers! As promised we will be in- stalling the rest of the code, completing our machine language version of CLASSY! Some anxious users have sent for advanced copies of CLASSY and many others have written with suggestions and comments. We will look at these as well. (And thanks again for all your letters!)

First let us review what we have done up until now:

-In PART ONE (Mar/Apr '87) was the stand-alone BASIC CFE.

-In PART TWO (Jul/Aug '87) we discussed the design of a machine code version and all the font code was given as DATA statements (comprising lines 1000 thru 1190). :

-In PART THREE (Sep/Oct '87) The beginning code was given (comprising lines 1 thru 90, the rest being a demo).

-In this portion (PART FOUR) we will add the last code and try out all of its features!

Before we add the new code, there are a change or two we need to make to the code from parts Two and Three. The needed alterations are shown in Figure B (and in Listing 3's first small block.if you are using an assembler). The +350 in line 7 must also now become +1501. Some refinements to the letter "N" and chrs$ 199 are given in Figure C, but these can be left out if you wish.

If you have lines 1000 thru 1190 of Part Three and have made the changes as noted, we can add the final code! This is Listing 1, lines 100 thru 220. (A dis- assembly of this code appears as Listing 3). When this has been entered our CLASSY coded version is complete. It contains all of the code to function as well as all of the new font data and the BASIC version will load itself when RUN.

But in order to see CLASSY in action, we need to give it something to do! Listing 2 is a demo which pro- duces the dummy menu screen shown in Figure A. If Listing 2 is too long for you just type in lines 2000 thru 2100 and it will produce the same screen (minus the window). Once this is in place (and SAVEd on tape) RUN the program and enjoy. The initial POKE loop to load the 1501 bytes of code takes 18 seconds. After a first run you can redraw th screen with a simple GO TO 2000 (no need to re-RUN and wait eighteen seconds to re-load code already in place.

Let's look at the demo (Listing 2) in detail to better see the features CLASSY has built into it and how to work with them. A quick glance at the listing will show many lines with REM statements and "RANDOMIZE USER print". The REM statement contain the PRINT coordinates and the items for CLASSY to print. The USER calls are always in the line just previous to a REM line and call CLASSY into action. There can be many other commands in the same line with the user call (see line 2005) as long as the very next thing is a new REM line. If not you will get an ERROR A.

BY PAUL BINGHAM

1S

Bae, ie

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af REE: HOY Line length tester PECDEFENISELH Pisce §. STEP, BMD) THEN, STOP PEC DEF GHIUELNND PORSTUL

Pe! Bie perstrvuxyr =o ev aE Bit of pixels in this Lise: DEF GHIA LHS Pies 118

Figure A

The demo screen (Figure A) shows the complete CLASSY font as produced by lines 2050, 2070, and 2090. Most of the symbols are similar in the CLASSY font with the few exceptions as discussed in PART TWO. You will notice in line 2050 two apostrophes after the "!" in that line. This is a departure from Sinclair BASIC (Clive, forgive me!). In CLASSY two apostrophes = one quote symbol.

In lines 2070 and 2090 you will notice several ATs. AT is the kerning keyword to fit letters (like "A" and "T") closer together. Each AT equals one pixel back- Space. Line 2270 is replete with them. Another keyword (line 2010) is OR. This toggles in and out of inverse mode. Note that the word DEMO and arrow are printed in- versely. Now since CLASSY printing is always in OVER mode, OR can also be used with INK and PAPER to erase words or we can use the old stand-by: PRINT "(spaces) ".

The keyword TO appears in line 2250 and toggles the vertical print mode. TO is real handy for columns! Notice that this line prints the dots downward in the demo's window area. Not the last keyword you'll find is

NOT. NOT is the "Number of test" keyword. Since each CLASSY symbol has its own width, it would be nearly im- possible to calculate a line's length without NOT. With

NOT once in line (see line 2290) the sum (up to 255) is tucked away in the 38th byte of CLASSY's code. It needs only to be PEEKed (see lines 2300). But repeated PEEKing can be a chore. Using NOT twice in a line (see line 2340) will halt the program with ERROR = n. Looking up the chr$ code for "n" reveals it equals 110. And in this case 110 is the exact length of the line. NOT calculates all symbols, spaces, and ATs.

In order to get out of an ERROR loop just hit SHIFT+BREAK. The other ERROR messages are ERROR A for an improper word after REM, ERROR B for improper coordinate or variable, and ERROR C for an unknown symbol in the quotes. It's conceivable you could crash CLASSY but with these error traps it's pretty unlikely. Notwith- Standing, it's always wise to "Save it" ‘fore ya run iti"

The code also sorts for four more keywords which I've left user-definable. These are STEP, AND, THEN, and STOP. The jump table for these is eight bytes long and starts at the 530th byte in the code (at B1D9 in Listing 3). These are set now to jump to ERROR C, but you could reset these to your own custom routines. Where to put custom routines? Pretty simple, really. The font data sits on CLASSY like a cap. If we move the font data up we can gain the room we need. Just put the new offset number to the data into two pairs of bytes starting with the 507th byte (Blc2, Listing 3) and the 700th byte (B283, Listing 3). Then from the 71lth byte (B28h) on- ward is room for new code!. There are also eight empty storage or flag bytes near the code's beginning starting at the 30th byte (AFE5, Listing 3).

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TS2068 HEART OF CFE "PRINTING" ROUTINE (m.c. version) EXX swap 3 register-pair‘’s contents POF BC let C=X value, B=Y value EXX swap contents back LD B,A put width in B SYMBOL: INC HL point to next graphic byte XOR A zero carry flag LD A, (CHL) put mext graphic byte in A FUSH BC save width LD B, 8 set counter to eight (8 bits!) NEXTEIT: RLA 4's left-most bit into carry EXX swap contents JR NC, Y UP if carry=@ jump to Y UP (in inverse plotting this becomes JR C,Y_UF) FUSH EC save X,Y values ; PUSH AF save graphic byte & carry flag CALL 979@ (263Eh) call ROM plot routine POP AF restore AF FOF BC restore BC Y UPS INC B increase Y value by one EXX Swap contents back DINZ, NEXTBIT if 8 bits not done, to NEXTBIT POF BC width restored EXX swap contents (BC=X,Y values) Inc C add one to X 24,60,231,36,6,8., LD A, B drop Y value by eight 119,219,255,0.,3,8 ADD A, 248 (FBh) +77,24,48,96,48,8, LD B, A EXX swap contents back ; DJNZ, SYMBOL. if all bytes mot seen to SYMBOL Figure C Figure D Now a couple of other tips before we move on. The yourself some embarrasment (and me some paper) if you

REM lines 2030 and 2050 show that REM acts ‘as PRINT does in a BASIC print statement. AT and the absence of coor- dinates is accepted as in Sinclair BASIC. TAB is also accepted. TAB can act even as a backspace. A line like REM TAB 10;"B";TAB 9;"3" will print 38!. If you use variables (a thru h) the values must first be POKEd into place. This was shown in the demo in PART III. INK and PAPER can be changed but must be done outside a REM line. Such commands in quotes will give ERROR C.

In the interest of space and time ('sounds like Carl Sagan!), I can't possibly detail every machine code routine in CLASSY, so I'll review the heart of CLASSY's crazy printing abilities. This 35 byte code is found in line 180, also at BIE9 in Listing 3, and is also shown in Figure D. We enter this routine with the following: The top stack values are the X and Y plot values, HL has the address of the first of eight bytes of font data for a particular symbol, and A contains the contents of that first byte (the width). If:you are unfamiliar with 280 code, I would recommend studying Syd Wyncoop's eleven lessons on Z80 code starting with the March/April '86 issue of Time Designs to present (all eleven issues are still in stock for $3 each). Specifically if you are not familiar with XOR, RLA, or EXX read lessons #6 and #7 (in Jan/Feb '87 and Mar/Apr '87). Lessons #4 and #5 contain almost all the other machine language instruc- tions found in this print routine. Study Figure D and the remarks for each instruction and you will see how it was relatively easy to plot pixels vertically to form characters instead of horizontally like the ROM does it. This routine calls a 114 byte ROM plot routine starting at 9790 (263Eh) for each pixel plotted. The ROM routine actually starts at 9784 (2638h) but we by-pass 36 bytes of un-needed temp color code by entering late. In either case BC must contain the plot coordinates before the call. The order is C = X and B = Y.

I hope no matter what you level of skill in pro- gramming, that you will enjoy CLASSY FRONT END. It is truly fun to play around with. And you must play around with it to become familiar with it. If you have any questions or comments, please write. Now you May save

1

~~

read PART II, III, and IV carefully first...many of the recent questions I answered by referring to a past

article. Nonetheless, if you. have a problem, write. No question is a bad one iff your learning! Next time perhaps we will tackle true windowing in conjunction

with our new program. Until then, may all your drives be snappy--and all your monitors be bright! And HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

***If you would like a copy of the complete machine code version of CLASSY FRONT END on a new cassette, just send $5.00. I also offer a cassette of many past pro- grams called "BINGHAM's BEST" which also contains the BASIC and the machine code versions of CLASSY all for $9.95. Just send it to: Paul Bingham, PO Box 2034, Mesa, AZ 85214.

Listing 1

108 DATA 35,24,2 24,141,126 ,254 $34,32,51,35, 126,254; 58, $2.18 233,38,8,82 a,

126,214, 78, aig, 435) BS, 233; ;B5a; 5 : 23

11@ DATA 33,126,8,24,233,35,126 2 25,33,126,8,25,233,43, 229,35 72,25,233,254,39,32,14, bee bared eae ,32,4,62,34,24,3,43 2126

“i238 DATA 203,127 ,32,20,6,7,229, 213,22,08,95, Bis, 225, 45,16/253,20 9,229 24,122,198 ,135, 24,236,254, 254,268, 48, pda, asa, 2a

iss, eo 248,

ea 4a, 42

132 BATA 24,5,235,22,67,24, 136, 254,197,48,77,254, iss, 40, tid, e254 ,172,48, 128, esa, Bea, 43, 18, Bsd, 2a 3,48, 184,254, 194, 4a, 182, 254,265, 4a, 102,254, Bae, 48,98

wut

148 DATA aa, Biy Ca tase a. a5, 126,254,1,48,7,S54, ,138,24,24, 5,54, @, 1; 217, 283-43 34°30 25, 412) 3s, 1133 Ba, 128, 229,86, ;B17, i97 2B45, 2Bi, 193,41

150 pata. tas, 79,128,198 ,248,71, 6,24,101,229, 33, 45, 2,25, 126, 454) 56, 40, 4, 54,56, 24, 2, 54, 48, ed, a

16a SATA 193, 33/148, i, 25, 3,3, 6,8,126,213,229, Sse 12, e, 25, 73, 35 , 78,225, 197,24 478 DATA 24, 68 34,162, 24,160,24 $288): ,24, 156,225, 33,41, é, as, 53,24

:

160 DATA 217,193 ,217,71,35,175, 126,197,6, 8,245,217, 43,7, 137; eas, aes, 62,438,241, 193, 4, Biv, 16, dai, a eoent? 242,128, 493/248, 74, 2i7, 36,

a

198 DATA 209 ee .41,08,25,229,217 2

! jeee das ail as : 217,38,26, 1, 4s; 2 3 200 DATA 62,0,58,119,92,35,126, 254 ,34,48,37,254,195,32,46,213,2 2£25,1,116,8,9,54,61,35,35,35,58,1 19,92,6,2,79,175,124,23,56,4,16, 251,14,32,121,119,93,92,0,285,233 218 DATA 33,37,0,25,58, 119, S2,1 19,33 ,126,8,25,233,2083, 127,408,241 72,199,2,185,48,13,42, 16, 258,254 ,272,02,183,58,119, 32 ,61,24,174, 198,185 2 oO 213 ,5,7,22,8,95,24 = ,£269, ass; 194, 34,1 9,92,134,225,24,4

45

Listing 2

20008 REM DRAW MAIN SCREEN

2005 PAPER 5S: BORDER 1: CLS : PA PER 7: FOR t=@ TO 7: PRINT “

“i: NEXT t: PLOT 2,2: DRAW 2 58,0: DRAU 8,166: DRAW ~250,8: © RAW @,-166: eLoT 2,159: DRAU 252 »@: RANDOMIZE USR print 2010 REM AT @,4;"2= Fite Edit GR Demat OR Windows Options”; AT 1,0," F£LFIFFF733 CLASSY FRONT END DEMO +3333 oo PAPER S: RANGOMIZE USR prin

2U38 REM AT 2,2; ">= New BO6S Hed ium character set:”

eodo Hae tsi TO 6: RANDOMIZE USR Prin

2e52 REM "of! eee’ (1 44,-./81234 S67S39: ; <=> 78ABCOEFGHIUKLMNO” 2860 RANDOMIZE USR print

22708 REM “AT PORSTUUUXYZ([\] t_£fa bede fghi Jk lmnop ars tuUvwXYZAT AT ¢ STICK + FREE "

2880 RANDOMIZE ae FOINL

2898 REM " AT Gea =694k* (194, @125456789: | (=) 7BABCDEFGHIGRL HNO

2108 NEXT t 2198 REM Keyword box

2202 PAPER ,f: FOR t=9 TO Be: PRI

NT AT t,6;°' NEXT t: PLOT as, 124: DRA @, -98: DRA

YWo113,8: DRAU @,1: DRAW -112,2:

DRAW é, 88: DRAW 132,08: PLOT 46, a

4: DRAU 114,@: DRAW 2,-97: PAPE

R 3: RANDOMIZE USR Rrint

Bele Ren AT 9,6; "F337 KEYUVORDS + +

R220 PAPER 7: RANDOMIZE USR “prin t

B23 REM AT 14,7; "AT AT AT “Ker Ting’*’ function “;AT 22,7; "AT aR Inverse AT AT Printing "TAT 413,7;"AT TO Vertical AT AT pri nting "JAT 14,7, "AY NOT AT AT Li née AT AT tength AT tester “;AT 2 5,7; °AT AT STEP, AT AT AND,AT AT AT THEN, AT AT STAT_OP" 2235 REN (Use of TO}

B2d@ RANDOMIZE USR Print 2250 REM AT 11,6;" TO »=>=>=3= F

0 >= 2255 REM se of NOT)

B26@ RANDOMIZE USR print

2278 REM AT 17,6," AT AT B_AT AT Gf AT pixels in AT this AT line AT AT ="

2288 RANDOMIZE USR Print

2290 REM AT 17,6; "NOT AT AT BA T AT of AT pixels in AT this AT line AT AT ="

2388 FRINT AT 13,14; PEEK 45837 2318 RANDOMIZE USR Print

2320 REM AT 2@,6;" (Shift +BRERK to stap)”

2338 RANDOMIZE USR prant

234@ REM AT 17,6;"NOT AT AT #_A T AT of AT pixels in AT this AT line AT AT =NOT ”

Listing 3

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THE TS i500

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USER rea AL

EARL V DUNNINGTON

Here are some corrections to the first installment of this series which appeared in the July/August '87 issue of TDM. On page 30, lines 5 and 6, right column, should read as follows: "displacement between E_LINE and STKEND as after the line has been placed in the Program area, the Line being typed + work space area no longer exists and the".

Hopefully no one with a ZX81 that did not have a RAMPACK attached tried to do the examples from lines 27 to 30, left col., page 30. If so, I extend my apologies as there is not enough memory left after expanding the Display file to enter the commands. You would have to PEEK each address of the System variable E LINE separately, recording the results either with pencil and paper or use the TS2040 printer and LPRINT instead of PRINT. Then turn off the computer to get back into the unexpanded Display mode. You can then carry out the arithmetic. The re- mainder of the examples can be done in the unexpanded Display mode.

In the first episode of this article, a diagram (Figure 1) was presented depicting the structure of the BASIC system in the RAM memory after turning on the computer or entering NEW. You will need that diagram, the TS2040 printer, and your USER MANUAL. BASIC routines were presented to prove that the structure of the BASIC system of the lower RAM memory consisted of either 153 or 920 bytes depending upon the value stored in the System variable RAMTOP. Partial proof was also presented that the number of bytes in the upper RAM memory used by the BASIC system after initial- ization, are four. Unfortunately, there is no System variable for the Machine stack pointer, sp. These two registers (s and p) of the Z80 CPU cannot be PEEKed directly using BASIC. Only by the use of a machine code program and the USR function can the address stored in these two registers be determined. Indirect proof that the addressed stored in the s and p registers and the address stored in the System variable ERR SP are the same at the time of completion of initialization, is that the routines I pre- sented to set RAMTOP within a program would not work if this was not correct (see page 9 and 10, July/Aug '85, or page 9 and 10 of "The Best of TDM Vol.1", also Fig. No.1, pg. 16, Nov/Dec '86 and Fig. 4, pg. 40, Jan/Feb '87).

Referring to diagram Figure 1 (July/Aug '87, pg. 30), let us now prove that the System variables area contains 125 bytes. To do this we substract the fixed address of the start of the System variables from the fixed address 16509 which is the address of the first byte of the Display file in no BASIC program is in the computer. Turn on the computer and type in the direct command:

PRINT 16509-16384 Then press ENTER. The result should be 125.

“CLASSY FRONT END”

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The two bytes of the System variable D_FILE contain the address of the start of the Display file. If Figure No.l is correct, PEEKing these two bytes should return the value 16509, proving that the Program area does not exist until a numbered program line is entered. Compare Figure No.1 with the diagram on page 128 of the ZX81 and the TS1000 (or page 154 of the TS1500) User Manuals. Turning to the listing of the System variables in your manual, you will find that the addresses of the two bytes of D FILE are n=16396 and n+1=16397.. Substituting these values in the PEEK formula at the beginning of the listing, type in the direct command:

PRINT PEEK 16396+256*PEEK 16397 Then press ENTER. The result should be 16509.

To prove that the unexpanded Display file, with the cursor showing on the screen, uses 26 bytes, we must be very devious, because when a direct command is ENTERed both the command and the cursor no longer occupy the Display file. In order to avoid using the screen for the results we use the 2040 or equivalent printer. Then if your computer has 3.25K or more RAM, you must fool the computer into thinking there is less than this amount available so that an unexpanded Display file will be set up. To do this, POKE the System variable RAMTOP with an address less than 19712 and then execute a CLS. For example using the address 19711, type in the following direct commands:

(Note: ZX81 must have RAMPACK) POKE 16388,19711-256*INT (19711/256)

Then press ENTER

POKE 16389, INT (19711/256) Then press ENTER

CLS Then press ENTER Everybody type in the program presented in Figure Number 2. A line by line explanation follows:

ed

ANY KEY TO Gu

LPRINT_

16418,2

10 - can print 20 - 30 - addresses

POKEs the System Variable DF_SZ with a zero so that you on lines 22 or 23 of screen display.

PRINTs the inverse K on line 23.

LPRINTs, using the printer, the difference between the contained in the System variables VARS and D FILE.

40 - LPRINTs a message on the printer.

50 - Advances the paper in the printer so that the can be read.

60 - Stops the program execution so that the screen inverse K can be seen.

70 — Restores the original value DF_SZ to avoid a crash.

Turn on the printer, type RUN, and press ENTER. Be follow the instructions to quit. Leave the program computer.

In order to prove that the expanded Display file, without the cursor, uses 793 bytes, POKE the System variable RAMTOP with a value 19712 or greater, then enter a CLS. For ex- ample, using 19712, type in the following direct commands:

POKE 16388, 19712-256*INT (19712/256) Then press ENTER POKE 16389, INT (19712/256) Then press ENTER CLS Then press ENTER

Be sure that the printer is on, then type in RUN and press

ENTER. To continue follow the instruction to quit.

messages with the in the System variable

sure to in your

with or

Continued Next Page.

Delete lines 10, 20, and 70. Then rerun the program. It is very important to understand that you do not change

the physical location of RAMTOP by merely POKEing the System tf F, variable RAMTOP without entering NEW or by a special routine (see "Automatically Set RAMTOP" page 9 in either TDM, Jul/Aug '85,

"The Best of TDM Vol.1").

Clear the computer by turning it off and back on. If we take — the address contained in the System variable E LINE and subtract the address contained in the System variable VARS we should, according to Figure No.1, find only one byte of memory present in the variables area. Type in the direct command:

by

woe PRINT (PEEK 16404+256*PEEK 16405)-(PEEK 16400+256*PEEK 16401) Eeyseer Then press ENTER cetened

ted by tos ene vores eater ae 4 ee a ” earthy 120 es to (hott ages ane vepeseePel yg preety 25 100 te skeePet co’ gnoue 1 a

The result should be a one (1) To find the value that is stored by the ROM routines, always in the last address of the Variables area, type in the direct command:

PRINT PEEK (PEEK 16400+256*PEEK 16401) Then press ENTER

The result should be 128. Turning to page 139 of the ZX81 (page 140 of the TS1000 or page 144 of the TS1500) User Manuals, you will find that the value corresponds to 80 hexadecimal. To prove that this is the marker that tells the SAVE command that it has reached the end of the data to be recorded on tape would require an investigation of the ROM SAVE routine and is beyond the scope of these articles.

This concluded the chapter on the big picture of how your RAM memory is utilized by the BASIC programming system of the computer. Among others, we have dispelled such myths’as "you can PRINT on 22 lines of the display", "the programmable area of the screen consists of 23 lines and 32 characters", and "the display file constantly occupies 1K of memory".

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TS2050-ZX Modem Modification Project

Dave Clifford

OBJECTIVE: This Hardware/Software modification will allow the user to operate the Westridge TS2050 Modem with the Sinclair ZX Interface 1 and Microdrives.

WHY IT DID NOT WORK: The reason that the TS2050 modem WILL NOT work "as-is" is because of an "address conflict" between the Interface-1 and the TS2050. That is the BASIC reason at least, but it gets slightly more involved when selecting a new Port Address to operate the modem from. For a close-up discussion as to how to avoid this problem, you should consult a copy of "The Spectrum Hardware Manual" by Adrian Dickens (published by Mel- bourne House). If you have access to a copy, read the section in Chapt. 14 called "Adding 128 I/O Ports". For those of you who are un-able to obtain a copy, I will quote a few words from that section:

"In the Spectrum a very simple form of decoding I/O port addresses is used. AO is used to select the ULA, Al the ZX printer and A3, A4, A5 the microdrives and RS-232 interface. No more than one of these address lines should ever be at logic 0 during an I/O operation. If they are then several devices will try to use the data bus simultaneously. Homebrew circuits there- fore only have address lines A5, A6 and A7 available to select them". ‘

The stock TS2050 modem uses PORT $73 (HEX) or 115 (DEC) for DATA I/O and PORT $77 (HEX) or 119 (DEC) for CONTROL and STATUS I/O. Convert these numbers to BINARY and you can see where the "rub" is:

ADDRESS LINES A7 AG AS A4 A3 A2 Al AO

PORT $73 (HEX) 2 fe) pl 1 1 PORT $77 (HEX) = fe] 1 1 1

Pome) Or PPR PPR

* = Conflict on BOTH addresses!

NOW THE "PATCH": Now that we understand what the problem is and we have an idea of what address lines we can not use (AO thru A4), we now know the "range" for addresses we can employ.

After you install this modification to your TS2050 it will allow you to change the port addresses that the modem uses to those that are a lot more agreeable to the ZX Interface-l1 and here is what the new port addresses will be:

DATA PORT S3F CHEX) or 63 (DEC) CONTROL/STATUS PORT S7F CHEX) or 127 (DEC)

And in BINARY...

ADDRESS LINES A7 AG AS A4 AB AZ Al = AO

ie] te) 1 Z 1. 1 1 1 ie) 1 iL 1 be 1 1 a.

NOW OFF TO THE TOOL CRIB. HERE'S WHAT WE WILL NEED: A Phillips screwdriver (to take the modem case apart), a 25 to 30 watt pencil soldering iron, a pair of needle-nose pliers and diagonal cutters, an X-Acto knife with a nice sharp blade, a drill with a bit that is of suitable size to mount a_ toggle switch (optional), some solder (quality 60/40 rosin core type), a small wire brush or flux remover, and don't forget some eye pro- tection!

AND THE PARTS DEPARTMENT:

a) 1 three pole double throw switch (Radio Shack #275-6661).

b) 7 pieces of small-gauge "hook-up" wire, approx. 6" long, and you should obtain 7 different colors. The best stuff to use is a length of "rainbow" ribbon cable and separate the conductors into individual wires. The schematic is marked with the first 7 colors that you will normally find. They are Brown, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue and Violet. (Note: If you decide on a color scheme of your own, be careful! If you make a mistake it could cost you a computer or modem or both.)

READY FOR ASSEMBLY: Now we are ready to open the modem. Carefully remove the case and place the P.C. card on the work bench "solder-side" up. Prepare the toggle switch as shown in Drawing "A". After the switch is complete, study Drawing "B" and "Cc" (also the schematic) to determine what P.C. conductors are to be cut and where to solder the wires from the switch. When soldering, apply just enough heat and solder to do the job. Now you can select a position on the rear or front panel to mount

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your toggle switch. Be sure that it won't get in the way of the P.C. card or a component on the card when you re-assemble the modem. Check and re-check your assembly! If it all looks good, let's go for a test. Can you remember which position the switch is in for “normal mode" and which is the "2050 ZX mode"? First let's try MTERM II (terminal software program) in "normal mode" and see if we are functional (don't connect the Interface-l, it won't work).

If everything is normal, then we are all set to try the "2050 ZX mode". Before we do, we must customize a copy of MTERM II with some simple software POKEs so it will communicate with the TS2050 in this mode.

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MTERM II TERMINAL SOFTWARE MODIFICATION: Set up your TS2068 for Spectrum Mode (using an. Emulator or Romswitch) and switch it on. Execute CLEAR 53950 and press ENTER. Execute LOAD "mterm"CODE and press ENTER. (Note: If you have a BASIC LOADer that auto-runs MTERM or contains an auto-dialer, remember to change the IN/OUT addresses to the new ones. Also if you are running a print driver that is "port dependant" for data I/O to the T1TS2050, they too have to be changed. Because of the diverse configurations that are available, you are on your own in this department.) Execute the following POKEs:

t

Vocsistiinasliot ihetieliiet cncitlethicsbertasd

HEX DEC VAL HEX DEC VAL E712 = 59154,127 E719 = 59161,63 E724 = 59172,127 E735 = 59189,63 E73C = 59196,127 E73E = 59198,127 E740 = 39200,127 E744 = 59204,127 E74A = 59210,127 E752 = 59218,127 D6A6 = 54950,127 D69A = 54938,127 D67F = 54911,127 DSE1 = 54753,127

The following two POKEs will allow you to EXIT to BASIC while in Spectrum mode and not crash: POKE 54554, 207 POKE 54555,255 Now let's save your "Spectrum Friendly" version of MTERM II to

a Erteha lands" (conductive foil)

tape. Execute SAVE "mtermzx"CODE 54016,7721 and press ENTER. For DRAWING Cut the P.C. the Microdrives, execute SAVE*"m";1;"mtermzx"CODE 54016,7721 and B at the points indicated by the ’Cut--> press ENTER. That's it...now you can customize MTERM to your flags. taste. The I/O ports are as follows: DATA = 63 (DEC) CONTROL/STATUS = 127 (DEC) Solder the proper wire from the switch

assembly as indicated by the ’COLOR’

PROJECT SYNOPSIS: MTERM II will function just as it did when flaga.

running on the standard TS2068 except when you "EXIT to BASIC" MTERM's main menu will still be present. To clear the screen just hit the ENTER key and you will have a clear screen with the "Kk" cursor ready for your commands. Also, with the ZX Interface-l attached the "extended" BASIC commands and error codes are on- line as well. For example, with Interface-1 attached and you do

CHECK YOUR CONNECTIONS!

PRINT USR 54016 to enter MTERM and then EXIT to BASIC, you will T4HC19BN see the "Program finished, 0:1" message at the bottom of the os <a

screen. And the Buffer Counter will display a slightly different value with Interface-l1 attached (30153) as without.

Thesport addresses that I=selected for this project are (to the best of my knowlege) not used by any of the "standard" peri- pherals associated with the Spectrum computer. If you have a device (like the Aerco parallel I/F) that shares one of the addresses then you may have a problem. You can change the addresses on the TS2050 to just about anything you want. Just remember the binary decoding that the Spectrum and Interface-l employs and you should have no problems selecting a _ second address pair.

WHY A SWITCH?? You do not need the switch. The switch allows you to quickly configure the TS2050 to run in Spectrum mode or on say a TS1000/TS1500 with a minimum of components. You can hard- wire your modem for the new addresses and after POKEing the new values into MTERM for Spectrum mode, POKE the same values into a copy of MTERM for the TS2068 (just don't include the two POKEs at 54554 and 54555).

CONCLUSION: Many have enjoyed this modification for months and I hope you will too. If there is enough interest, I have a modification that will allow the TS2050 to dial up the U.K., using the CCITT v.21 protocol.

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RLE Graphics (Part Two)

STAN LEMKE

My how time flies when you're having fun!! I dug through the files and was amazed that almost a full year has passed since I submitted the original RLE article (Jan/Feb '87). In that article I explained the use of an RLE; DECODER program, a short program that would take an RLE encoded picture, and decode it into a form that our beloved TS2068 could display. Now I would like to ex- plain the other half of the process...RLE ENCODING.

further.) Type in this portion of the program, LOAD in the compiled bytes, and SAVE the program with the command RUN 9999 and ENTER. When you run this program by typing RUN and’ ENTER or LOADing the program, you will be asked to LOAD a SCREENS (or picture). Encoding will begin immediately and take 30 to 40 seconds...SAVE this to tape as directed.

Now you are able to SEND some of those great TS2068 SCREENS

a: BS: c: Oo: €: F: Gb: H = 4% K: 5 7] N: Oo: RP: Q:

As with the Decoder program, the original Encoder program was written by John Ryan and,distributed through CompuServe. I modified the program somewhat, and am presenting it here with John's consent. The RLE Encoder will convert a standard TS2068 screen (256 pixels wide by 176 pixels high) to the RLE format. This is compatible with most of the graphics programs written for the TS2068. The bottom 16 pixel rows are padded with "blanks" to fill out the standard RLE format.

LISTING #1: This is a listing of the RLE ENCODER program entirely in BASIC. It is followed by the CKTYPE output (see May/June '87 TDM). Although the program works, in this form it could well take in excess of an hour to completely encode a complex picture. (Note: The RLE format counts the number of paper dots and ink dots used to construct the picture.) Simply type in the program as listed. Save it to tape with the command RUN 9999 and ENTER. Load and run the CKTYPE program and compare this with the CKTYPE output listing. To RUN the RLE Encoder, type RUN 2020 and ENTER, or LOAD it from tape. You will be prompted to LOAD a SCREENS (picture). The encoding will begin immediately. When completed, you will be asked to NAME and SAVE the RLE Encoded bytes.

LISTING #2: This is a listing of the TIMACHINE COMPILER (by Novelsoft) version of the RLE Encoder program. Type in this ver- sion if you have this compiler, save it to tape, and compile it. The TIMACHINE COMPILER "list" output is included after the pro- gram listing. If you get anything different, double-check your listing. Save the program/bytes as directed by TIMACHINE. The bottom section of Listing #2 has the BASIC LOAD/SAVE portion of the RLE Encoder program. (Reset your computer before going any

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ESEEEHE LATHE HELE 2018 REM £828 CLEAR 2698 REM 2180 CLS . PRINT eS LOAD SCREENS.”

Flay your LOAD 75K

2! cao To 3 E etaG boat 12 = iz ; ae LBBA REM 4444 Hee SEL HEEH HA HLE ELE #280 INPUT HO;AT @,0; "File Name ei SELON tees F UT STANDARD FORMA seo? CINE ng. SAVE nSecode 4paes, FINISH OUT STANDARD FORMAT BLE = BALLS EEES $5%5 euee ee ease a Guevease L REM 4444 e44e44S44HR EEE EET EH BEERS NEAAR ERE Reo SRUE "RLE.ENCODE’ NE £820 4348 PORK Boa, 7: COMPILED ALE ENCODER idee PORE doaon 72 aad Qa: ] S,12a7 1 414 aggge Original Program by tage LET sega aa an Fad presented with Author 1858 PORE 5,22 2 i232 Be dis 18 S=5 38 Li 72 modified b tace LET rosea 40 45 1452 Lemke 3 1980 IF Z=43 THEN GO TO 1188 5a 12 Fas ; Bl 1998 GO TO 1833 oo ii 7365 Wichita 1189 PORE 5,43 7O 13 tiie 1118 LET 3:5+1 ige ais as6¢ SRERHELSHH ESSE SES SH SESE HESRTEE t+ 1128 POKE 5,7 41a 42 1278 41238 LET $=542 128 a4 1a85 2 REM 1135 LET S=S-daaa0 aoe ce Bard = Bea 114@ STOF P is a72 ET 4145 RE i chase i5@ 25 2436 = REM 145 REM ! CLOSE # iss 26 23438 9 REN 168 £0 25o¢ 18 LET 165 22 z 28 LET iva 23 3@ LET LINE &: +28 162 aa 428 LET LINE &: 38823 87538 #82 i4 Seo LET 218 5 68 LET RTz2O Babad HPPTS eek i3 7@ LET RTei SESS2 H77a2 232 42 ABB REM 4454254544244 E4 442544 RTie4 8680 #7789 242 43 RTie2s BOQ6a85 #7 7aED 32 iS? FIND PAPER (BLACK) FIRST Cesenearees POSINT Segoe8 F7 312 ia Kaeeaeaease POSINT S2be2 2% 32a a4 SELEESEESF ELH E SSR TEA SLES SHS SETH Yerereaeces POSINT BQ624 RF 328 pr Berreeesese POSINT Ba5e5 87 342 ais 112 Secsereeres POSINT 3eo22 # 352 #6 12a Weeeseceanss POSING S253a 8 355 26 138 Zererereaes POSINT Beoge2 # 3B2 23 140 LET X=xX+1 Besecsecees POSINT BGGa4 # are ao 158 IF 255<x THEN LET ¥= 382 a3 a85 IF 255<xk THEN LET 39a al 16@ IF 255<k THEN LET TIME MACHINE ©1986 Cameron Hayne 402 44 265 IF ¢=8 THEN GO TO 412 5 47@ IF 82985 THEN co To aaa H/O: 620 BYTES 422 iz 132 GO TO 118 + 15 BYTES FOR NvC VARIABLES 4328 ai 290 LET &=6iste e (BASIC WAS 2855 BYTES) 449 23 218 POKE 5,6 452 al 228 LET S=54+1 ig2aea 156 23@ LET 8-8 SAVE “mee"CODE 64722,628 1@i@ : 22 24@ IF C=@ THEN PORE 3,32: LET LOAD “mec"CODE 2aaad 1@ea : 22 $=54+1: Ga Ta laae 1823 po TS. BOQ REM £4 4EeEHELESE EAE H HELE SE 1842 i3 iease 12 FING INK (UHITE: HEX 1862 i3 i878 i3 HEE ESSA EE LESSEE HT AEH TH SETS 1980 Ba A085 REM SHES See SSELELE STE STIEE 1998 42 318 LET A=POINT (%,%¥) 1122 i2 B20 IF @<A THEN LET Ustiel RLE -- ENCODER 4119 43 32a IF A=8 THEN Go TO 488 Lipa ii 8343 LET X=xK4+2 RLE SAVE-LOAD program... 11208 43 35@ IF 265<*% THEN LET v=¥-1 us€d with the ALE Compited BASIS 1135 i? 355 IF 255<x% THEN LET C=t-1 Lida 42 360 IF £255<* THEN LET %=K-255 SEEASFSHE ELE EES SEAL SSHAHL EI ETEEE Bees 453 370 IF C=2 THEN GO TO 40a #2012 ais 380 IF W=85 THEN GO To 422 1218 REM ENCODEJRALE 2a20 43 398 GO TO 3123 1920 CLEAR 39999: LOAD "“RLE.ENTO Pes2 ia 488 LET W=W4Ge DE"“CODE 328832 Pipa 42 419 POKE 5,u 1a9@ REM etl 2118 43 428 LET 5-541 1188 CLS : PRINT “Flay your TARE S150 42 439 LET Usd to LOAD SCREENS.": LOAD "“SUREE BDaa S4 44@ IF C=8 THEN GO TO i282 NS 5213 = 458 GO TO 112 1448 RANDOMIZE USR Saded goog 25 11950 REN R= . 1280 INPUT #@,;AT @,8; "File Name ="; LINE ng: SAVE ngCODE 40802. THE FUTURE OF RLE: The draw-back as far as RLE graphics are pe rgaeae (3S2914+PESK (aN5a5): concerned is that this format is strictly for Black | and White Geso SAVE “RLE.ENCODE" LINE 1ace pictures. That is fine for Baw computers...and B&W printers, but : SAVE “RLE.ENCODE‘ CODE 308802 ,52 the TS2068 is a COLOR computer with no less than 2 different 2

color resolutions! Whant can we do with color graphics?

Well, it's no secret, but COMPUSERVE has developed what it calls GIF (Graphics Interface Format). Note: GIF and Graphics Interface Format are trademarks of Compuserve Incorporated (an H&R Block Company. GIF is a standardization of computer graphics (pictures) which have COLOR! I am signed up at CompuServe as a GIF developer for the TS2068, and let me say that this is going to be quite a challenge...so don't hold your breath for a TS2068- GIF program in the very near future! To be meaningful, the resulting picture will almost certainly have to be an EXTENDED COLOR mode picture. (To my knowledge, two programs currently support this TS2068 video mode: my own PIXEL SKETCH/GRAPHICS EDITOR and Dave Franson's EXTENDED PAINT.) The standard color mode would loose too many colors. Remember, we will be trying to decode color pictures created with the AMIGA and the ATARI ST... that have up to 256 different colors (shades) and a wide variety of contrasts. Also, we will be squeezing 640 X 400 pixel graphics into a 256 X 192 picture, or more likely use a window technique to view a portion of this large picture! There is also an added problem of "decompressing” the GIF data. The data may require 32000 bytes of memory in an ATARI ST to display a single picture. This is encoded in GIF to about 6000 bytes, and then further com- pressed to about 3000 bytes to save upload and download time (and expense). So, first we will have to develop the compression and decompression programs to get at the real GIF data, then de- velop the decoder and encoder, and finally figure out the best way to display the end result picture (if the TS2068 has enough RAM to handle all this). So, if/when I get this all done, you'll see it right here in TDM!

ur 1987 7; =, 54 Is a Hse AG i a 4 Wad ee “C3 Hee

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TRE LA afd WOU". This Prograe has been review in TINE BESTSH, CORFITER SHOPPER, (iH. To 52, TIRELIME? atid other User Publications ahd if being used all ower the United States, IRKEDIATE SHIPRERT ae if you have already purchased “THE ME@ THX LAS" Fras us you = oat 4 oie Fro be i Price which WiLL give you

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TS2068 PERIPHERALS

*XSTANDARD KEYBOARD SYSTEM-$69.95 Includes case, cartridge port IF card, 42 keys, TIMEX key legends

*WORD PROCESSOR KEYBOARD SYSTEM As above but with 65 keys-$99.95

*RGB INTERFACE UNIT $34.95

*KEMPSTON JOYSTICK I/F $24.95

*SOUND/BEEP BOOSTER UNIT $41.50

*CARTRIDGE ADAPTER UNIT $24.95

Plug cartridge peripherals into rear edge connector

*XSPECTRUMN TWISTER Plug SPECTRUM Units

$39.95 into TS 2068

*SPEECH SYNTHESIZER $39.95

Add $5.00 S&H for keyboards

JOHN MATHEWSON, 1852 APPLEFORD ST., GLOUCESTER, ONTARIO, KIJ6T4

##> RMG ENTERPRISES <## and LARKEN ELECTRONICS =)=) ANNOUNCE ¢=<= THE AERCO-LKDOQS CARTRIDGE IT'S READY!! 1T°S HERE!! IT'S GREAT ! ? Now you can add a REAL DISK OPERATING SYSTEM to your 2068 and AERCO FD-68 CONTROLLER!

With this cartridge board you get all of the Larken

DOS commands as well as the Larken EXTENDED BASIC

commands. Now you can SAVE-LOAD-HERGE-CAT-ERASE

FORMAT-OPEN# and auch, euch gore!

Simple 1@ minute god to the Aerco board is all it takes and you can switch between the 2 system in case you wish to use RP/M on the Aerco system. EVEN GIVES YOU 40K OF RAM DISK ON STANDARD FD-68 PCB! If you have

256K on FD-68, you can have 4-40K RAMDISKS! ORDER SOON! GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT! ONLY $65 .. OO+$3ph ADD $6.00 IF YOU WANT EPROM SOCKET INSTALLED. LKDOS CARTRIDGES ALSO AVAILABLE FOR RAMEX AND OLIGER CONTROLLER BOARDS. SAME LOW PRICE! AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY FROM LARKEN and RMG ENTERPRISES VISA 4419 1/2 7TH STREET OREGON CITY, OR 97045 # 503/655-7484 #FOR CATALOG, SEND $3.00 REFUNDED WITH FYRST ORDER

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EESESESESES “5 oon Designs Tests

A Professional Monitor,

at

unique CADPAK,

and some games!

Mike de Sosa

My apologies!

We were supposed to discuss Digital Precision’s DESKTOP PUBLISHER Special Edition and the QUANTA Library's PAGE

DESIGNER this month, but the great facilita- tor failed to come through with the former, and an updated version of the latter did not arrive in time. C’mon great facilitator! We'll report on these next time, if.

PROFESSIONAL MONITOR * * * * *¥

Hat’s off to COMPWARE for Computer 1’s new PROFESSIONAL MONITOR which has been described as "the most sophisticated debug- ging tool available for the QL assembly language programmer.” I’m, personally, no great shakes as such a programmer, but I've run some demonstration programs and know enough to compare PM with several other top- rated monitors in my possession. PM isa real stickout by quite a margin!

In addition to the standard features,

few unrivalled ones, in its previous its new features include a symbolic

and management capability; an integral Motorola 68000 two-pass assembler; dual-screen debugging; the capability to assemble single and multiple lines of source code using either keyboard entry or entry from existing files; function key control of monitor clones; and fifteen or so new or modified commands. To those unfamiliar with symbolic debugging, it is just a shorthand methodology to take some of the drudgery out of assembly language programming. There is a lot more that one could say here, but I believe this will be sufficient to whet the appetite of any QL assembly language programmer. From COMPWARE, 57 Repton Drive, Haslington, Crewe CcW1 184, U.K., telephone (0270) 582301; mention my name and Time Designs’ for a possible discount. Sorry, no credit cards: use a post office to deposit funds to Girobank account no. 67 361 9508. How much? I'd guess about $65.

and a version, debugging

PRO-CAD 3 * * X * *

Datanet Systems excellent Pro-CAD 3, is a unique two- or three-dimensional, plotter- ready design tool for the QL-user who wants to visualize a design in two or three dimen-— sions rather than building a 3D model. Like so many other programs today, PC3 was written in SuperBASIC and compiled using one of the several programs which convert BASIC to the much faster and more compact machine code.

PC3 is unique in that it employs a dual screen depicting the plan view of a design and, interchangably, an elevation or side view; this is to accurately portray design data in the third dimension or z-axis, which is difficult to do in most similar software.

ee

PCS is completely menu-driven and, after a bit of getting used to, easy to learn and use. It is also well-documented and has a comprehensive, interactive HELP facility

The Main Mode screen consists of two side-by-side vertical windows depicting the plan view of a design in the right and an elevation or side view in the left. A thin strip at the top lists various major functions which, if selected, drop a pop- down window from the top of the screen. A data window depicting X, Y, and Z dimensions and angles and other data is at the bottom center of the screen. A crosshair-type cur— sor may be moved between windows.

With this arrangement, it is amazingly easy to draw three-dimensional figures. Once drawn, you may magnify, rotate, zoom in and out, with a comprehensive array of controls, or select a three-dimensional representation with or without perspective. Circles and other stock figures are drawn where they’re supposed to be drawn on U.S. «JSU ROM QLs).

Designs may be output to a standard Epson-compatible printer or a wide range of plotters. PC3 was written by draftsmen for draftsmen. No price information was in- cluded with the software nor in advertising.

Datanet Systems advises that they are anxious to do business in the U.S.A. Write to Datanet Systems, P.O. Box 121, Luton, Beds., U.K. for further details.

BUNKERED * * *

QUANTA Library's BUNKERED is quite an engrossing golf simulation played over eighteen holes. Using three woods, five irons, and a putter (‘once on the green), choose your club, select an angle, and adjust the strength of your swing accord- ingly. You may choose various routes to the pin, depending on your derring-do. Try it,

you'll like it. Available with QUANTA

membership through a QUANTA librarian. Write Tom Bent, 9016 Flicker Pl., Columbia, MD 21045 or telephone (during 7-10pm EST) (301) 730-7187. Sign up for QUANTA!

BRIDGE * * * 172

Sinclair QL World's Microdrive Exchange

offers BRIDGE and many other programs at bargain prices. Available at about $10, this contract bridge simulation is quite

good with comprehensive options and far, far better than the commercially available BRIDGEPLAYER II. But Digital Precision'’s new MICROBRIDGE is on the horizon at about $55. Order GOLF using application blanks in Sinclair QL World or send a SASE ‘envelope? to TIME DESIGNS for a facsimile.

or ar a a Se ee ee ne i

— ee +H eEEEEEEEEEES ESTEE EEE SESE EEEEEESEEES EEE EEELEEELEL ELLE eee eee

MANDELBROT -- A Fractal World

Michael E.

THIS FROGRAM AND ARTICLE

Is FOR THE SINCLAIR QL

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the magical world of fractal ical study of forms having fractional dimension"). Fractal geometry has been used to build complex mountain ranges and “growing plants by Lucas Films. It has also been helpful in the study of the baffling world of turbulence. This world was developed by Benoit B. Mandelbrot, a researchest at the IBM Research Center in Yorktown Heights, NY. The “numbers" which lie within the “fractal plain" are said to be within the Mandelbrot set (see solid black area in fig. 1). The set is created and explored by repeatedly calculating a set of complex, real and imaginary numbers. A complex number is any number of the form arbi, where a and 5 are real numbers and f=sqguare root of -1. A real number is one in which there is no imaginary Part. An imag- inary number is a complex number with 6 not equal to zero. A full discussion of imaginary and complex numbers is beyond the scope of this article and knowledge of the author.) By using an iterative process, one can generate the Mandelbrot set. Numbers which do not "#ly-off" to infinity are said to fall within the Mandelbrot set. This is where the computer comes in the Number Cruncher! For high resolution, a maximum of 1000 itera- tions is required. In order to fit the resulting data into an unexpanded QL, I have chosen a low to medium resolution with an iteration of 255. If after 255 steps the calculated number does not equai 4, it is assumed to tée within the Mandelbrot set (see tig. 4 tor example of the calculation).

geometry (“the mathemat-

The real beauty of into areas along number of “worlds”

fractal geometry is discavered by "zooming" the edge of the Mandelbrot set. An infinite can be discovered. By assigning colors to the numbers that “fly” away from the set, one can find violent, yet beautiful, vortices (see figs. 2 & 3). GQne can also discover minature replicas of the parent set, along with drastic metamor- phoses.

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS

To start

your exploratory adventure into the Fractal World, you must

first set the parameters of the search. (NOTES: AS writ-— ten, the program expects to be loaded and run from Microdrive #i. Use the command <LRUN mdvi_mandelbrot>.) The selection of "Define New Parameters" from the main menu will allow you to set

your sights and the magnification scale needed for zooming into this magical world.

First, set the starting corner for the search. A-Corner Creal parti is the starting point along the x-axis of fig. 1, B-Corner Cimaginary part] is the y-axis point. The size of the search is the length of the sides (a square starting at A & B-corner). When the length of a side is around -01025 or smaller, the resolution of the program begins to fall off. You will need to specity the device (microdrive, floppy disk, etc.) and a name for saving the resulting map. To keep the

fig. 4 gap=side/200

for m=O to 199 for n=O to 199 real=ntgapt+a_corner imaginary=m*¥gap+b_corner Zr=0%s Zr#03s count=0 repeat loop rezr*2-zi*2treal ZIF2XTrXzit+tmaginary zr=r S(ze@e=zr*2¢+z1*2 tf size/=4 then exit loop count=count+tl te Counts=255 then exit loop end repeat loop end for n end for m

NOTE: Lines in italics are done via machine code

Carver

HA : uh :

C702 Se CDE

“oxo

| i

| UU

|

“1.25

“09 20 ad REAL PART default device and/or name, simply press RETURN. (NOTE: Remember to include the underscore "“_" when naming the device.) After checking to see if the intormation is correct, you are whisked off on your trek to that particular corner of the fractal

world.

While the program is calculating and the ESC key will provide you with a report on the status and a mini-menu. The mini-menu will allow the saving of data in pro- gress or a fresh start. (NOTE: Those which cannot operate their QL in Fi/Monitor mode may miss the first 8 or so lines of the Plotted set -- the ESC key will keep you informed of your where- abouts.) When Saving the data and screen, please be sure your device and medium is ready. If at any time you find yourself out of the program, due to an ERROR or by pressing BREAK, you can return by entering as a direct command <main_prog>. DO NOT Run the program, as this will clear the variables used to Call the machine code routines.

Plotting the selected map,

Once the computer has completed calculating all 40,000 points in the plane, a prompt will appear asking you to ready the device for saving. A directory of the device is provided, to help avoid overwriting data you may wish to keep. By answering “Yes" to the Prompt, you can overwrite the files if you so desire. Another caution on saving: Insure that the medium will have enough space

fig. S&S SUGGESTED “HUNTING GROUNDS” Real Corner Imaginary Corner Side -2.25 -1.5 3.0 (gee fig. 1) -0.19920 1.01480 0.05227 (see fig. 2) -0.95 0.23333 0.06667 -O.713 0.49216 0.22213 “1.781 0.0 0.013 (see fig. 3) -O.75104 0.10511 0.01025 -0.74758 0.10671 0.00108 -0.74591 0.11196 0.00143

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for all of the data,

approximately 147? sectors total. The itera- tive

Mathematics is done via a machine code routine to avoid the days of computer-time which would be required by BASIC. If one were to calculate a fractai piane which lay entirely within the

Mandelbrot set, a total of 71,400,000 calculations would be required.

Once a completed picture and data be recalled at any time by selecting optian from the main menu. (Surprise? will also re-load a partially calculated continue development at a later time.

of an area is stored, it can “Load Screen and Data* Surprise!) This option

Plane, allowing one to

The color assignments which are always provide @ pleasing result. Color Data" provides a means to select a more satistactory pal- ette and distribution. Before re-coloring a map for the first time for one that has just been loaded), the distribution of Points must be calculated. It will take about 8 minutes to run through ail 40,000 points. (NOTE? Once calculated, this data does not need to be re-calculated before re-defining the colors, as long as the current map is still in memory.?} After this array has been amassed, the highest and second highest occurrences of a single point is listed, along with an average. These are only guide-posts to help you in selecting a color spread. Through experimentation, One will be able to use these numbers wisely. You will be asked for a desired range. This is the number of points which will fall within a single color. Next you are asked to provide the desired 7 colors to represent the various degrees of “closeness".to the Mandelbrot set. Quite amazing and ditfer- ent results can be achieved with various mixes of colors and range.

To see the results of a new color selection, Screen" option. The re-plotting via machine code, thus cutting a twenty-minute job in half. After the screen has been re-drawn, a mini-menu will appear allowing you to save the new data,

Provided as a default will not Therefore, option “Re-Define

choose the of the Mandelbrot map is done

"“Re-draw

return to the main-menu, or simply sit back and enjoy the results. (NOTE: During the re- Plotting of the map, the ESC key and any other keys are dis- abled.) The author will provide the for $7.30 (or 4.00 if the sender provi LISTING 1 Send check or money order to: Michael E. 1016 N. E. 1@ REMark ** He Portiand, 28 REMark #* Mandelbrot BASIC He 3@ REMark ** Michael E. Carver ** 42 REMark ¥+# xe fig. 2 Soa: 62 initial 78 main_prog Bo : 1989 DEFine PROCedure main _prag 1gia REPeat bigloop 1922 main_menu 193¢a store_it 1949 done 193523 END REPeat bigloop 1866 END DEFine main prog 1B7B : 1988 DEFine PROCedure back_door 1892 FOR m=mm TO 199 1198 FOR n=nn TO 199 1119 k=CODE (INKEYS) 1122 IF k#=27 THEN mini_imenu 1138 cr=n¥gaptac: ci=mk*gaptbe 11949 CALL (start+i4) 11359 CALL (plotter+794) 1169 END FOR n 1172 nn=B 1189 END FOR m 1182 mini_window 1184 PRINT #8;"To Save --"\"Ready “s;dev@\" Press any key*\"“To Continue” 1186 aSB=INKEYS (-1) 1187 paste 1199 END DEFine back_door 1288 : 12198 DEFine PROCedure done 1228 LoCal key 12398 REPeat done_loopi 1248 snap_shot: mini_window 1252 PRINT #8;"ESC = View"\"F1l = Main Menu” 1262 REPeat done_loop2 1270 key=keyintl 1288 SELect GN key 1299 ON key=27: EXIT done_loop2 1388 GN key=232: CLOSE #8: EXIT done_loopi 1318 END SELect 1328 END REPeat done_loop2 L332 paste 1348 key=CODE (INKEYS(-1)) 1358 END REPeat done_Icopt 1369 END DEFine done A370: 1389 DEFine PROCedure store_it 1398 REPeat checki 1492 overwrite=3 PA 14198 OPEN_NEW #7, dev$&"dir_copy"

PUTTING THE PIECES TOGETHER

There are four separate program listings which need to be entered

into the computer before your fractal-adventure can begin. List- ings 2 4 will compose the different machine code routines used by the BASIC listing 1. Carefully key-in listings 2 before running them. Each of these machine code listings will automatically save the code to microdrive #1, so insure that inere is a suitable cartridge in that drive before running them. The BASIC listing should be saved on the same cartridge (or disk) as the supporting machine code routines. (NOTE: Save Listing 1 with the name “Mandelbrot".) The main BASIC listing will automat- ically toad the needed machine code routines when executed.

4 and save

Once you have successfully run and de-bugged all aspects af the pro- gram, you may safely delete the BASIC machine code !toaders (list- ings 2 - 4 GNLY?).

TOWARDS THE FUTURE A complete break-down of the BASIC program along with extensive information on the machine code routines (including source code) will be provided in your next issue of Time Designs Magazine.

Further Reading:

1.

Mandelbrot, Benoit B. The Fractal Geomety of Nature. New Yarks W.H. Freeman and Company, 1983. 2. Peitgen, H. -O. and P. H. Richter The Beauty Oa@f Fractais} images oar Complex Dynamic Systems. Berlin, New York} Springer-Verlag, 1986, 3. Dewdney, A. K. “Computer Recreations: A Computer Microscope Zooms in for a Look at the Most Complex Object in Mathematics."

Screntific American. August 1985. pages 16-24.

4. Schroeder, Peter B. “Plotting the Mandelbrot Set." Byte. December 1986. pages 207-210. 3. Nachbaur, Fred *“tMandelplaot: Mathematical Print Art.”

SuncWare News. 4. McDermott, Sense in Chaos."

May-June 1986. Pages 11-14. Jeanne “Geometrical Forms Known As Fractals Find SmitaAsonian, December 1983. pages 110-117.

complete program on micro-cartridge

des a blank cartridge).

Carver

Tillamook oR 97212

1422 DIR #7,devS: CLOSE #7 1432 GPEN_IN #7,devS&"dir_copy"

1449 1459 1469 1478

INPUT #73;nas:

REPeat check2 IF EOF (#7) INPUT #73; nas

INPUT #7,na%

THEN EXIT check2

14868 IF LEN (na) >LEN (name®)

1498 IF naSii TO LEN(name$)+tii=nameG&" ": check_devi EXL T check2

13502 END IF

13518 END REPeat check2

13522 CLOSE #7: DELETE dev$&"dir copy”

IS3a IF overwrite=9: EXIT checki

13542 END REPeat checki

13556 BORDER 48,272,989: CLS #8

136g CLOSE #8: IF keep THEN paste 13578 mm=eEms nn=n

135389 1592 1682 1618 1622 1632

SBYTES dev#$kname#k" ser", 131872,32768 SBYTES dev$tnameSk" dat", start,487198 OPEN_NEW #7, dev$&nameSk"_ dat2"

PRINT #753; PEEK_L (start+642)-start PRINT #75mm: PRINT #7inn

PRINT #73gap: PRINT #73ac: PRINT #73bc

14648 FOR xx=@ TO 255: PRINT #7,color (xx) 1652 CLOSE #7

1668 mini_menu

1678 END DEFine store_it

1682 :

1699 DEFine PROCedure check dev

1728 mini window

1712 PRINT #8; “Overwrite?"\"Cy or nn)" 1728 aS=INKEYS(-1)

1738 IF afi=="y"

1748 DELETE dev$k&nameS&"_ scr”

1730 DELETE dev#&nameSk" dat”

1769 DELETE dev®&namesk"_dat2"

1772 overwrite=%

i789 ELSE

1799 CLOSE #7: DELETE dev$&"dir_copy" 1898 CLS #8: INPUT #8; "New device “\ devs 1812 cLS #8: INPUT #8;"New Name “\ names 1820 overwrite=1

183g END IF

1835 paste

1842 END DEFine check_dev

1858 :

1860 DEFine PROCedure mini_window

1872 keep=o

1882 IF m>=164 THEN keep=1: snap_shot 18928 OPEN #8,con_192x36a56x@_32

19BB BORDER #8,2,8,35: CLS #8

191@ END DEFine mini_window

2698 x=x-Li y=y-(i MOD 2)

2619 END FOR i

2629 CURSOR x,y: INK 2: PRINT "MANDELBROT" 2638 canvas

26498 star t=RESPR(49712) 2658 camer a=RESPR (1898) 2668 plotter=RESPR(786) 2678 DIM color(255) 2689 color (@)=4

2698 FOR i=1 TO 58 STEP 2

27282 color(i)=6: colortiti)=4 2718 END FOR i

2728 color (59)=5: color (6)=5 2738 FOR i1=61 TO 66: color(i)=4 2742 FOR i=67 TG 82: color(i)=3 2758 FOR i=83 TO 89: color(i)d=2 2768 FOR i=98 TO 1982: color(i)d=l 2778 FOR i=193 TO 118: color(i)=6

LBYTES mdvi_mandelbrot_code,start LBYTES mdvi_snapshot_code,camera LBYTES mdvi_plotter_code,plotter

2788 FOR i=i119 TO 139: color¢i)d=5 2798 FOR i=14@ TO 162: color(i)=4 2888 FOR i=162 TO 192: color¢i)d=3

2818 FOR i=193 TO 229: color(i)=2

2828 FOR i=238 TO 254: color(i)=1

28398 FOR i=@ TO 255: POKE (plotter+2@8+i),color(i) 28492 devS="mdv2_": nameS="mandelbrot”

2858 END DEFine initial

1920 : seen 1939 DEFine PROCedure main_menu 2878 DEFine PROCedure set_up 1948 Local a%,b%,x,y 288 Local devis,nameliS, key 1950 tv: PAPER 4: INK 7: BORDER 4,2,4: CLS: OVER @ 2670 REP Sat query e 4 : . . 1968 CSIZE 3,9: STRIP 1: CURSOR 134,18: PRINT “ ” read PAPER: 2% ‘BORDER 4,:2,5: CSiZe 2,85) CLS 1978 CURSOR 126,14: STRIP 2: PRINT “MANDELBROT e718 on ge 4 pokarausheuter 19898 CSIZE 2,2 oo - age Co-ords of proposed Mandelbro \“set"\\"A-Corner £928" RESTORE 220° pag hanbe Some CImagi Part] "sb 2088 x=32! y=52 | ae mga pla eee ia j3bce 2019 FOR i=1 TO 4 2 es eee \ nile me wings Pe ELS 20280 ASEFTLUSI* Fj 21s BMRPILLOC * 525) orne EHEUT "Gave as “U7? auhennear?*\nanais 23 : : : : mated es aun x,y: PRINT aS: CURSOR x+72,y! PRINT bs phat a A bia 56> aes agente 2 29 1s<>"" T $ 1s 2952 STRIP 2: CURSOR x-6,y-4: PRINT aS: CURSOR x+66,y-4: PRI is a ea Ren names nine NT bs JOBS PRINT\\"Real Part = “jac 208 yeyres 3a18 PRINT\“Imaginary Part = “sbc 2876 END FOR i 7 me

28828 DATA “F1i"," Define New Parameters ","F2"," Re-Draw Screen

2898 DATA “F3"," Load Screen and Data “,"F4"," Re-Define Colo r Data "“

dies” aeath cuatro Have you just purchased

2118 key=keyint

wee aes ene one of those new, low-

2148 SELect ON key

2158 ON key=232: set_up riced Sin ici QL’ LL 2160 ON key=249 7 Pp Lo ir Sr?

2178 recall

2189 IF back=232 AND m¢199 AND n<i99?

zie2 vacncacer Then you need the most =

nn comprehensive and up-

2219 ON key=244: re_color

2228 ON key=236: redraw

2238 END SELect

= dated source of informa- 2249 SELect ON key ti il bi Se anata dee spice nlaceaheaaeiaralia

2278 back_door 2288 ON key=198: RETurn

22928 ON key=REMAINDER : main_prog The excellent new book 2398 END SELect = ‘a = = written in plain English

2318 END DEFine main_menu

2328 :

2338 DEFine PROCedure mini_menu

2348 LOCal key,key$s

23358 mini_window

2368 PRINT #8,"row "sms" "3 "col “gn

for every QL owner, by aed seas Rags uel = Save"\"F2 = Cont"\"F3 = Restart” the internationally

2392 key=keyini H+ aoe Select on ey acclaimed author, ON key=232: store_it: mini_window: EXIT query2 = 2428 ON k =236: EXIT 2 ce ear sala Mike de Sosa. 24949 CLS #8: PRINT #83;"Okay to"\"Abandon?"\\" (y or n)* 29358 keyS=INKEYS(-1): IF keyS$=="y" THEN main_menu: EXIT query2 2468 EXIT query2 24973 END SELect KING H Q A 5 U z 248s END REPeat query2 TA T E U NT M LEAP: See eee seve) ake se The Last Word on the Sinclair QL

2519 IF keep THEN paste 23529 END DEFine mini_menu a $26.00 2549 DEFine PROCedure initial

25358 LOCal x,y,i

2568 tv: PAPER 1: INK 8: BORDER 4,2,1: CLS: CSIZE 3,1 2578 x=64: y=68

cca par ist 30-46 TIME DESIGNS MAGAZINE CO. 23598 CURSOR x,y: OVER 1: PRINT "MANDEL BRO T" 29722 Hult Rd., Colton, OR 97017

ha an

3B2B

PRINT\ "Side = “js

33S PRINT\ "Saving as “&"" "&devSknamesk"’ ”

384g PRINT\\\"“Are you satisfied with the above?”

Base key=keyint

3Pb6G SELect ON key=89,121: EXIT query

3B7B END SELect

ses2 END REPeat query

3OPD gap=s/298: mm=8: nn=G: calc=s

S1IBS CALL (wetart?)

Siig array=start+712a

3128 POKE_L (plotter+188) ,array: POKE_W (plottert192),8: POKE_ W (plotter+194),2

3138 END DEFine set_up

314g:

3152 DEFine PROCedure recall

31468 LOCal devit,nametS, key

3178 PAPER S:iINk @: CLS: AT 2,9

318e INPUT *’Load from Device PP "’&devek'"’\devis

3199S IF devit<>"" THEN devS=devigs

32ZBS CLS: DIR devs

3218 PRINT: INPUT "Name ? "*&nameS&’"’ \namels

3220 IF namei#<>*" THEN name$=namelS

3225 Canvas

3238 LBYTES dev@&knameSk" scr’, i 31672

3248 LBYTES devSknameS&"_dat", start

3258 OPEN_IN #7, dev$inameSk" dat2"

3260 INPUT #7,a: array=a+start

3278 INPUT #7,mm: INPUT #7,nn

3289 INPUT #7,gap: INPUT #7,ac: INPUT #7,bc

3299S FOR xx=@ TO 255: INPUT #7,colort(xx): POKE (plotter+298+xx y,cGlor (xx)

33SS CLOSE #7

3318 POKE_L startté42,array: POKE_L plotter+188, array

33228 REPeat recali_loop1i

S33B m=mm: n=nns calceo

3348 FPOKE_W (plotter+i92),m: POKE_W (plotter+194) ,n

3359 mini_window

3368 PRINT #8; "ESC = View" \*Fi = Continue”"\"F2 = Main Menu” 337B REPeat recall_lnap2

338s key=keyinl

3398 SELect ON key

3492 ON key=27: BORDER #8,2,8: CLS #8: CLOSE #8: EXIT re call_loop2

34128 ON key=232,236: BORDER #8,2,8: CLS #8: CLOSE #8: EX IT recali_loopti

3426 END SElLect

3438 END REPeat recall_loop2

3448 IF mm>=164 THEN paste

3450 keyS=INKEYS(-1)

3469 END REPeat recail_toopi

3478 back=key

3489 IF mm>=144 THEN paste

3492 END DEFine recall

SS5eo :

3S5i9 DEFine PROCedure redraw

3529 Local arrayl

3530 arrayl=start+719

3542 MODE 8: canvas : BORDER 6,8: PAPER @: CLS #2: CLS #8: CLS 3559 POKE_L (plotter+188),arrayl

3356S CALL plotter

3572 REPeat redraw_loopt

3589 mini_window

359d PRINT #6; "ESC = View"\"Fi = Save"\"F2 = Main Menu" 3698 REPeat redraw_loop2

3618 keymkeyint

34628 SELect ON key

3430 ON key#27: BORDER #8,2,8: CLS #68: CLOSE #8: EXIT re draw_loop2

3648 ON key=232: key= 188: EXIT redraw_loopl

3458 ON key=234: BORDER #6,2,8: CLS #8: CLOSE #8: EXIT redraw_loopti

3669 END SELect

3678 END REPeat redraw_loop2

3488 paste

3698 keyS=INKEYS(-1)

3782 END REPeat redraw_loopi

3718 IF key<>27 THEN paste

3726 END DEFine redraw

B73IS 3

3749 DEFine PROCedure re_color

37358 LoCal m,mi,cut_oft,check,i,arrayl,average,total,xx,col(6) 3768 PAPER 2: CLS

3778 REPeat do calc

37382 IF calc

37S PRINT “Do you wish to re-calculate Data?"

3888 keyS=INKEYS(-1): IF key$<>"y*AND keyS<>"y”" THEN EXIT do_calc

381d END IF

3829 CLS: PRINT "Please prepare a cup of tea as I”,“will be awhile calculating’, "requested data. . ."

3838 DIM dat(255): caic=1

3848 arrayl=estart+71gf

Base FOR m=8 TO 39999

386m dat (PEEK (arraytm) l=dat (PEEK (arraytm) iti

38798 END FOR m

3388e highl=1l: high2=2

3389S FOR m=1 TO 255

SISa IF dat(m) >highi THEN highi=dat (m)

BPLB IF dat(m)<highil AND datim) >high2 THEN high2=dat (m) 3928 END FOR m: EXIT do_caic

393A 3948 gh2

3950 3740 3976 378s 3998 4399 4B1B 4S20 483e

Ibrat Seti:

END REPeat do calc CLS: PRINT "Highest Range = "“j;highi\\ "Next Highest = "Zhi total=a

FOR m=@ TO 255: total=totaitdat(m)

average=total/2536

PRINT \\ "Average Range = "jJaverage

INPUT \\"Input desired Range “jcut_off

CLS: DIM col(4}

color_bar: STRIP 2: OVER @

INPUT \\"2 colors for Furthest Points "\co1(8),col(l1) INPUT\ "Next 4 colors (In order progress-ing toward Mande "\col(2),col(3)},col(4),col(S)

Waa INPUT \ “Color for Mandelbrot Set "jcol(6) 4425S Check=f: m=254: xx=liyy=6

4365 REPeat outer_loop

4872S mi=m

Aseg REPeat inner _loop

aon Check=checktdat (m)

4ia2e TF check>=cut_otf THEN EXIT inner_loop 4119 m=m-1L: IF m=@ THEN EXIT inner_loop 41220 END REPeat inner_loop

4132 IF mi-mcw2

4142 KX=RXt OX XRD) — Cx KeLD

4150 FOR i=m TO mii colaréi)=col (xx) 4169 ELSE

417g yytyy-t

4182 IF yy 1 THEN yy=5

4199 FOR i=m TO mi: color¢til=coltyy) 4252 END IF

4219 check=9

4222 m=m~-i: IF m=-1 THEN EXIT outer loop 4238 END REPeat outer_loop

4249 color (255)=col (4)

4252 FOR xx=8 TO 2535: POKE (plottert+2@8+xx),color (xx) 4269 END DEFine re_color

42708 :

4288 DEFine PROCedure color_bar

42976 Local x

4398 FOR x=@ TO ?

4319 PRINT “ "3x3 QVER 6: PRINT " ";:;QVER 1 4328 END FOR x

4338 END DEFine color_bar

43428 3:

4338 DEFine FuNction keyini

4368 LOCal at,a

4372 REPeat keyli_loop

4380 REPeat waitloop: aS=INKEYS: IF at="" THEN EXIT waitloop 4398 REPeat getkey: aS=INKEYS: IF aS<>"" THEN EXIT getkey 448 a=CODE (a®)

4418 RETurn a

ad2ea END REPeat key!i_loop

4430 END DEFine keyint

4445 3:

4452 DEFine PROCedure snap_shot

44969 CALL camera

4479 END DEFine snap_shot

4480 :

4499 DEFine PROCedure paste

4589 CALL (camerat+49)

4318 END DEFine snap_shot

45208 :

4532 DEFine PROCedure tv

4548 MODE 8: WINDOW 512,256,9,9

4552 PAPER 8: CLS

4368 WINDOW 429,169,46,9

aAS7S WINDOW #2,429,169,46,9

4580 WINDOW #9,4209,32,46,160

4598 PAPER 2: PAPER #2,1: PAPER #6,@

468 INK 7: INK #2,7: INK #0,7

4610 CLS: CLS #2@

4628 END DEFine tv

4633 2

46499 DEFine PROCedure canvas

4658 WINDOW #2,499,2099,56,9

4669 SCALE #2,199,08,9: PAPER #2,5

4679 END DEFine canvas

LISTING 2

198 REMark *% Loader for mandelbrot

119 :

128 start=RESPR(712)

139 :

148 REMark *#*% POKEs Code for mandelbrot 15@ :

169 RESTORE 1989

178 FOR x=@ TO 642 STEP 2

18 READ a: POKE_W (start+x),a

198 END FOR x

222 :

218 SBYTES mdvi_mandelbrot_code,start, 712 222 5:

Continued On Page 28.

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|

229 1929 1919 1928 1939 1946 1959 1869 1878 1889 1999 1188 1119 1129 1139 1149 1156 1169 1179 1189 1198 1 28D 12198 1229 1239 1249 12598 1269 12798 1289 1299 1399 1319 1328 1339 1348 1359 1369 1379 138g 1399 1489

LISTING 3

189 119 126 13a 149 138 168 178

DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA

28672, 16898, 786, 17482, 634, 8849, 29985, 28672 8814, 28, -11314, 19761, 14396,5149,8764, 611 29184, 9276, 611, 26888, 16878, 32, 9296, -198G2 16878, 24,8784, -11314, 13841, -18365, 26379, 24692 18938, 80, -11931, 2, 6362, 6362, 6362, 18938 66,-19828, 26498, -19388, 26384, 16878,32,9296 -18892, 203553, -17783, 25296, 24628, 18938, 46, 16878 48,9296, -19892, -19775,4, 19378, 24796, 18938

22, 16878, 49, 9296, -19892, -19775,4, 19378 24776,9,8,9,9,5,8,18938

488, 9859, -14, 14555, 19459, 21579, 14555, 19459 3728, 16988, 23599, -4, 29288,12498, 282, 29112 8814, 88, 18938, 448, 14524,9, 18938,466

15788, 9, -26618, 11692, 2, -26616, 15788,9

-26624, 11692, 2, -26622, 32256, 12348, 14, 12498

284, 20112, 15798, -26624, -26374, 11782, -246622, -26372

18938, 492, 15788, 8, -26624, 11692, 2, -26622 15788,9,-26618, 11692, 2, -26616, 32256, 12348

14, 12498, 284, 20112, 15798, -26624, -26374, 11782 -26622, -26372, -27988, 12, 32256, 12348, 12,12498 284, 28112, 18938, 322, 15772, -26618, 11668, -26616 32256, 12348, 19, 12498, 284, 29112, 18938, 322 14582, -26624, 19422, -26622, -27998,12,11593,86 15804, 2058, -26624, 117088, 16384, 9, -26622, 18938 276, 15772, -26618, 11676, -26616, 32256, 123498, 14 12498, 284, 20112, 15772, - 26618, 11668, -26616, 32256 12348, 14, 12498, 284, 29112, 18938, 226, 15772 -26618, 11668, -26616, 32256, 12348, 19, 12498, 284 2G112, 18938, 214, 14582, -26624, 19486, -26622, 19458 196, 15196,9,11199,2,-27998,18,11593

88, 15789,8, -26624, 11693, 2, -26622, 15773 -26618, 11677, -26616, 32256, 12348, 19, 12498, 284 28112, 23625, 15789, 8, -26624, 11693, 2, -26622 15789 ,8,-26618, 11693, 2, -26616, 32256, 12348

14, 12498, 284, 20112, 23881, 15798, -26374, -26624 11782, -26372, -26622, 32256, 12348, 19, 12488, 284 28112, 32256, 12348, 4, 12498, 284, 28112, 15414 -~26624, -2798, 22, 11593, 88, 18938,42, 14868 3142,4, 27648, 14, 21961, 19469, 3977, 255

26112, -422, 19362, 12,6341,19459,6, 19892 29285,8

REMark *% Loader for plotter

2

plotter=RESPR(786)

REMark *%% POKEs plotter code

RESTORE 1999 FOR x=@ TO 187 STEP 2

last hardware

896K

Tebby.

Miracle

188 READ a: POKE_W (plotter+t+x),a

198 END FOR x

28D 3:

218 FOR x=794 10 784 STEP 2

228 READ a: POKE_W (plotter+t+x),a

238 END FOR x

2498 3

258 SBYTES mdvi_plotter_code,plotter, 786

268 3:

1898S DATA 18938, 198, 16988, 1282G,17914, 186, 24832,88 1919 DATA 18938, 176, 16988, 17914, 164, 18424, 188, 24832 192G DATA 98, 1682,9,1,18938,152,12829,17914

1938 DATA 154,24832,58,17914, 148, 24832,99, 17914

1849 DATA 139,1618,1,3154,199, 28618, 19459, 114

1952 DATA 1621,1,12821,17914, 198, 24832,19, 3157

1869 DATA 199, 28588, 29985, 88149,88, 15745, -26624, 28689 1878 DATA 32256, 12498, 284, 29112, 13558, -266249, 9398, ~26622 1889 DATA 29885, 39298, 19322, -19732, -19557, 4627, 28713, 8316 189B DATA 2,2, 38463, 29935, 20985, 17492,532, 13146

1188 DATA @, 99359, 2,13146,6,9959,8, 28725

1119 DATA 39463, 8316,2,2, 29935, 29985

2828 DATA 18938, -514,12829,17914,-516, 24832, -619,17914 2818 DATA -5S32, 18426, -516, 24832, -598,1682,9,1

2828 DATA 18938, -544, 12828, 17914, -542, 24832, -696, 17914 2838 DATA -3556, 24832, -692, 17914, -566,1618,1,3154 2848 DATA 199, 28416,12, 16978, 19459, -S86, 1621, 1

2858 DATA 28985

LISTING 4

19@ REMark ¥¥* Loader for Snapshot code

118 3

128 camera=RESPR(89)

138 3:

149 REMark *** POKES Code for Camera

1358 :

168 RESTORE 1985

178 FOR x=8 TO 79 STEP 2

189 READ a: POKE_W (cameratx),a

198 END FOR x

228 :

218 SBYTES mdvi_snapshot_code, camera, 8d

228 ¢:

19G@ DATA 8828,1,-4, 16898, 72, 28672, 29185, 29697

1B19 DATA 12585, 29994, 3974, 24, 28662, -115249, 88, 26993 1928 DATA 3973, 36, 28648, 29985, 8828, 1,-4, 16899

1G3@ DATA 32, 28672, 29185, 29697, 13816, 29994, 3974, 24 194M DATA 28662, -11524, 88, 29993, 3973, 36, 286498, 29985

DEALING WITH TRUMP CARD

The 76GK RAM Add-on for the QL

by

Mike de Sosa

Systems’ @L TRUMP CARD is the word in disk interface/RAMcard/toolkit for the QL--providing a total of RAM--and another triumph for Tony

Built-in firmware includes dynamic

and static RAMdisk drivers--a shortcoming of

the Sandy SUPERQBOARD is that the RAMdisk driver is loaded as software, a dynamic printer buffer, a versatile screen dump utility, and a 128K RAM simulator. Facili- ties are also provided to network QLs enabling them to share printers, disk drives, etc.

The

or

Digital

WHAT TO DO WITH 896K RAM

With personal computers, RAM is power! more usable random access memory there

is, the more power and flexibility is avail- able for literally dozens of purposes.

multitask the Psion of software

TRUMP CARD to Precision suites

Use

programs, if desired, or ways to do multitasking/utility programs Software's QRAM, or SWOPPER together with version 3 of Henson's SUPERVISOR Chambers’ BXTRA/2. three-dimensional plotter-capable System’s unique PRO-CAD 3

including multiple copies of each and throw in a desktop publisher a tedium-reducing game or two, The best this is to use full-featured like Sector Tebby’s (CARE/QJUMP) new version of TASK Gordon APPLICATIONS TRAFFIC perhaps, Peter new FRONT PAGE good two- or aided design/

add Datanet or Bob

TASKMASTER, Compware’s

(COPED QL (QATS) and, (Gap Software) If you need a computer program just program

Fingerle’s (Tesseract) CONCEPT 3D. And there

will be utilities Peter Charles Julian Dyer’s (Athene

plenty of room left for additional such as the useful combination of Batty’s (Sector Software) SPELLBOUND, Dillon’s C¢PDQL) FILEBOUND, and Consultants) new QL

TURBOQUILL+, with its new glossary and other

features, which really give a leg-up to your favorite cor most hated) word processor. If you're a file freak, load

multiple ARCHIVE, RUN-TIME ARCHIVE, or, better yet if you prefer a ready-designed universal run-time system, Richard Howe's (Ark Distribution) cinch-to-use ARCHIVIST, plus miles and miles of files and really

relate with those databases. Or, for those extended tea breaks when the spouse is not watching too closely, load up Psion’s QL CHESS, Mark Steuber's (Sharp’s, Inc.) WAR IN THE EAST, SQUADRONS, QUANTA Library’s BUNKERED, or Sinclair QL World's Microdrive Exchange version of BRIDGE (‘it's a lot better than BRIDGEPLAYER II and a _ lot cheaper , but don’t order the Exchange's version of GOLF--it doesn’t work properly on U.S. [JSU ROM] QLs.) Whew! I don’t usually drop so many names, but it's a quick way to let you know of what programs and program combinations I have found superior.

Back to what you can do with TRUMP CARD, Although using disk drives is what the package is all about, you can use TRUMP CARD’s super fast microdrive imaging (Micro- drive to RAMdisk transfer) to load programs and files into QL RAM in a hurry--the quick- est way to transfer programs and files from Microdrive cartridges to floppies using TRUMP CARD is to first load Microdrive data into RAMdisk using a command such as

FORMAT RAM1_MDV2

and then COPYing or WCOPYing it to a disk. Microdrive programs with corrupt sectors are loaded into RAMdisk and flagged with an '»*' in DIkectory listings.

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MASTERCARD

Loading programs, data and document files, and utility files (such as background or foreground programs, datafiles of all types, and such things as key-~defined glos- sary entries) into RAMdisk makes for faster and more pleasurable computing, but don’t forget that RAMdisks lose their data ina fraction of an instant when power is cut to the QL, so don’t forget to transfer modified files to permanent storage frequently and at the end of sessions--at least until you get a fool-proof battery back-up system for your QL. «Oh, the hours of work I have lost when a Pacific Northwest storm cut power to my QL, even momentarily.» Such battery-backup systems are tricky to design and their price quickly mounts, but I understand that American genius is now being applied to the problem, and we may have a reasonably priced system for use in the States soon.

INSTALLING TRUMP CARD

How do you install TRUMP CARD into the QL? Like porcupines make love. Be patient and keep everything parallel and perpendi- cular. If you have to pull it out and make a reinsertion (this sounds too much like Dr. Ruth) peer inside with a flashlight first to

OL ¢ TRUMP CARD |

MAL SEEMS

insure that you haven't bent any of the QL’s pins. If you have, it’s not the end of the world. Very painstakingly, straighten them out using lots of light and a small-sized but longish screwdriver until they appear to be approximately straight--make several small adjustments rather than taking the chance of going too far. Now reinsert TRUMP CARD, as before, and it should slide in like the ignition key to a Porsche. Once in- serted all the way, it is worth it. Be patient and you’1ll most probably get it. (There she goes again.)

USING TRUMP CARD

Individual TRUMP CARD features are either on-line or switchable, and, in most cases, transparent (meaning that the QL and the user-~you--won’t notice they’re there.)

Floppy and RAMdisk driver commands, including Microdrive imaging, Microdrive emulation, and a dynamic printer buffer are on-line. A dynamic RAMdisk is created just by accessing it with any of several commands and expands or contracts as data is added or removed from it; a static or fixed RAMdisk

is created by formatting it and it remains the specified size whether data is added or removed. For example, SAVE raml_program If RAM1 does not exist, Le is created and the current SuperBASIC program is saved to it as filename; if RAM1 exists, the program is saved to it FORMAT

ramz_80 Creates RAM2 with

80 allocated sectors

FORMAT ram2_

or Erase RAM2 with the FORMAT ram2_0 loss of its data Convenient Microdrive emulation com

mands are available on-line, for example

FLP_USE mdv or RAM USE mdv make the QL think that a program loaded ona floppy or in RAMdisk is on Microdrive--a convenient way of using some programs on different media withou alteration. The commands FLP_USE flp or RAM_USE ram restore the QLs sense of direction.

The sophisticated printer buffer may be modified for various uses, types of printer, etc. There is no practical limit to the number of buffer files which use the QL’s main (expanded) memory.

The screen dump, also rather sophisti-

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30

cated, may be invoked in including with a defined hotkey of your choice. The entire screen or designated portion of a screen may be dumped to one of 14 types of printers--an inverse image sent to an Epson MX80 is the default setting.

The SuperBASIC command RES_128 con- figures your QL to appear unexpanded for the benefit of those programs, e.g., Psion QL CHBSS, which prefer it that way.

The SuperBASIC command TK2_EXT enables TOOLKIT II commands and functions which may interfere with some software; if you have a problem with ancillary software, add or remove TK2_EXT to/from the software's BOOT program and try it again.

several ways,

QATSWOPPER

Tebby’s Q@RAM and Sector Software's TASKMASTER have been rather widely discussed and may be the Mercedes-Benz and Rolls Royce of full-featured multitasking/utility pro- grams, but there’s a new car on the block, a hybrid made up of Compware’s newly upgraded TASK SWOPPER which takes the unique approach of providing all the advantages of true multitasking while not gobbling up massive chunks of memory or slowing your QL’s pace to aocrawl and while remaining compatible with most software (Q@RAM has the rap for being intentionally incompatible with much available software) and Cope’s new version 3 of @ATS (see above), pronounced "cats” because it does away with "mice,” a very powerful and sophisticated front-end utility designed to reduce the number of keystrokes required to perform routine ‘and some not so routine) tasks--shades of old Sinclair single-keystroke BASIC. The two are per- fectly compatible--made for each other.

QATS, available on EPROM, Microdrive - cartridge, and 3 1/2" or 5 1/74" disk, is fully menu-driven ‘each menu tailorable to your needs) and is also very economical in both price and memory used, especially if the EPROM version is used. Q@ATS, among many other things, also supports columnar and ‘*sideways” printing with its output control.

@ATSWOPPER is, thusly, a new lower-cost car on the block. Both programs are straightforward, well-documented, and com- patible with QL TURBOQUILL+, SPELLBOUND/ FILEBOUND, FRONT PAGE EXTRA, and ARCHIVIST

Check with your favorite U.S. distributors first, but, if they don't have the latest versions, don’t hesitate to order TASK SWOPPER, version 2, and QATS, version 3, directly from their distributors, ask for the VAT FREE combined TASK SWOPPER/QATS discount price: COMPWARE, 57 Repton Drive, Haslington, Crewe CW1 1SA, U.K. or telephone in the UK (0270) 582301. Ti guess at a combined price of $85, Airmail postage paid, but it could be a bit less.

TRUMP CARD is now several U.S. distributors for about $300. Many suggestions for integrating the use of programs such as the ones described above are included in my new book Taking the Quantum Leap: The Last Word on the Sinclair QL, available only from Time Designs.

available from

NEXT TIME: ‘Depending on software availa- bility) CP/Mulating with the Sinclair QL and more exotic QL software.

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An electronic spreadsheet calculator is the fundamental basic toolfor summarising, reporting and analyzing in matrix form any accounting, mathematical or scientific manipulation of num- bers. ZX-Calc operates in 32-64K RAM and affords a maximum of 3360 characters / spreadsneet. The entire matrix consists of 15 columns (letters A-O)} and 30 rows (numbers 1-30) with 8 characters / cell. Unlike other popular ESCs, ZX-Calc uses in calculations and within cells all 14 math functions on the ZX-81/TS1000. it offers a unique “SUM function that totals one or more rows/coiumns simultaneously. Parenthesis can be used within equations. There is no fixed limit on how many equations may be entered. Formulas may be Stored in all 420 cells of the spreadsheet. The display affords 15 rows/colums. Loading of data into more than one cellcan occur across/down one or more row/column simultaneously. With vertical windowing you can arrange a set of col- umns in any order, or practice using fixed-variabie- alignment display formats. The menu offers 6 options: enter / erase, move, calculate, print, save and clear the spreadsheet. Enter/erase allows the entering, deletion or data alignment within a cell through the use of a mobile cursor. With the move option you may move around the entire sreadsheet to access any row, column or cell. The calculate option allows you to enter labels, values or formulas into a cell or write and enter equations that will act upon the data already within the spreadsheet. You can also enter bar graphs into a cellinthis option. Absolute / relative replica- tion, down/across a column /row, is also allowed by this option. Also this option allows the auto- matic calculation of the entire spreadsheet with one single command. Print ailows youto outputto either the ZX/TS printer the entire spreadsheet by column-sets and row-pages through use of the COPY command. The entire spreadsheet may be saved on cassette tape or you may clear all data from it or erase the program from RAM entirely. The most salient advantage provided by an ESC over specifically vertical applications software is that an ESC provides a reusable framework with which you can compose any specific financial model rather than just be limited to only one stati- cally fixed format for storing. displaying and manipulating numerical data.

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FIGHTER PILOT (Pred# TS2FP) $16.95. Fighter Pilot is a Real-Time flight simulation based on the F1i5 Eagle, USAAF air superiority jet fighter. This uper simulation offers many of the features found on modern flight simulators including 3D views from the cockpit, fully aerobatic performance, air-to-air combat, croasswinds, turbulance, and blind landing. Joystick optional.

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Beginning 280 Machine Code

PART ELEVEN

Syd Wyncoop

The last instructions we have to discuss are the group that deal with interrupts. This will of necessity be a brief

discussion, as it is a most difficult subject and volumes could be written. ;

In addition, use of the interrupts are very hardware

dependent. For this reason, usually the hardware designers and programmers will agree on a few things at the time of system design. Since we already have the system (if I could find the designers, I might hurt them), we are forced to program in the environment provided. This means that we do not have full use of the 288 interrupts. But first, a general discussion of interrupts.

Interrupts are exactly what we would assume them to be, from the name. Whatever the CPU is doing, is interrupted. Now

what?

Upon receiving an interrupt, the CPU pushes (saves) all the registers onto the stack and a jump is made to the indicated interrupt service routine (a MC program). We'll find out a little later, how CPU knows where the service routine is.

The first thing most interrupt service routines disable the interrupts, to prevent confusion in case interrupt occurs. Therefore, the service routine must the interrupt at its conclusion. Since no other interrupts can be accepted until they are re-enabled, the interrupts are commonly re-enabled at the earliest opportunity that won't confuse our friendly CPU.

Interrupts are as competitive as us humans and wants to be serviced first. Since the purpose of the interrupts is to provide service for I/0 devices. they are normally assigned a priority (by harware design). This allows for orderly service and nested interrupts, much the same as you would have nested FOR/NEXT loops in Basic.

For example, assume our old friend CPU is busily your favorite arcade ‘shoot-em up’ game and you keyboard, here’s what happens:

do is another re-enable

each one

executing touch the

1) An interrupt is generated of priority B, to service the keyboard

2) CPU stops executing your game and jumps to the keyboard service routine

34

3) During the keyboard servicing, the VDU sends an interrupt of priority C. Since the interrupts have not been re-enabled yet, this interrupt is not acknowledged

4) The interrupts are now re-enabled and the printer sends an interrupt of priority A

5) CPU stops execution of the keyboard service routine and jumps to the printer service routine

6) Assuming no further interruptions, the printer

service routine finishes, and CPU returns to the keyboard service routine 7) CPU finishes the keyboard service routine and then

returns to your game (you’ve probably lost a ship hy this time!)

Remember, this is illustrative only! Our operating system and hardware are not designed in this manner. Now, a little more practical. There are two classes of

interrupts on the 280, maskable (MI) and non-maskable (NMI) Maskable interrupts can be disabled (masked) with DI and enabled with EI, while non-maskable interrupts cannot be. Let’s discuss the NMI first. The NMI cannot be masked as DI and EI do not affect it. The reason is that the NMI is a hardware peripheral interrupt that 4s hard-wired direct to the CPU and is not under software control. Whenever the CPU's NMI line is grounded, a NMI occurs. The NMI always jumps to 66h for its service routine. This interrupt is normally used for a keyboard or other device that must be serviced immediately. On the TS1®@@8, the service routine checks for SLOW mode and refreshes the screen accordingly. However, the NMI is not used on the TS2@68. Curiously, a well known bug in the Spectrum ROM was copied over to the 7TS2068, even though the programmers had obviously tried to make provision for the NMI {see Dr Logan's Complete Spectrum Disassembly). The system variables table tells us that address S5CB@h is not used. If the ROM routine functioned properly, 5CB@h would contain the address of a service routine for the NMI.

Note: Aerco users should be able to fix the TS2@68 NMI by using the extra ram. I do and it works,

bug I have not had time to try this yet. If I will pass the fix along to Time Designs.

The NMI service routine is properly terminated by a RETN instruction. This allows for properly reseting the CPU (actually the interrupt flip-flop but, we won’t discuss that).

The MI is most useful to us. This is a hardware generated interrupt that occurs every 1/6@th second in our computers. The TS1@@@ and TS2@68 are initialized in interrupt mode i (IM 1) which causes a jump to 38h (RST 38h) for the service routine. The TS19@0 uses this service routine to refresh a line of the screen in SLOW mode and the TS2@68 uses it to read the key- board. There is a method to intercept this interrupt, on the TS2068, explained in the Timex Technical Manual (available from Time Designs Magazine).

The Z8@ has three MI modes, IM @, IM 1 and IM 2. The primary difference is the manner in which the address of the service routine is determined. As we learned, IM 1 always uses 38h and is the default mode upon initialization of the system.

IM @ allows any instruction to be placed on the data bus by the interrupting device. This mode is meant to be used with the restarts (i.e. RST 19h), which allow an otherwise three byte Call address instruction to be given in one byte. As we have previously discussed, we cannot use the restarts as they were intended to be used. Therefore, this mode is of limited value to us.

IM 2 uses the interrupt vector (register I) in addition to the byte placed on the data bus by the interrupting device, to

determine the address of the service routine. The I register is the MSB and the device provided byte is the LSB. This forms a 16 bit address that points (vectors) to the address containing the address of the service routine, which is usually in a table that provides for the servicing of more than one device.

Use of IM 2 is limited by the lack of pull-up resistors on the data lines of the TS2@68. It can only safely be accomplish- ed by using a ‘kludge’ block of 257 bytes, containing the same data byte. This insures a jump to your vectored address.

Register I is initialized to 1Eh on the TS1@@@ and is used to determine the character pixel information. The TS2068 initializes I to 3Fh but, I have not determined to what end.

The MI service routine should end with a RETI instruction. This allows for properly returning through nested interrupts and reseting the program counter (PC). You must also re-enable the interrupt with an EI, prior to the RETI, if they have been disabled. The proper sequence of instructions is normally:

EI jre-enable interrupts RETI ;return from interrupt service

EI does not re-enable the interrupts until after execution of the instruction following EI. This is to prevent another interrupt from occuring so quick that it confuses the CPU.

Working with the MI is the instruction HALT. Halt does just what you would expect, it suspends CPU’s operation until the next interrupt. The CPU will actually be executing NOP'’s to keep the memory refreshed.

You now have an extremely over-simplified explanation of interrupts and their insructions. The interrupt system is unusable on the TS1@@@ due to the manner in which the hardware uses it to refresh the screen. The TS2@68 provides limited, but useful, access to interrupts.

Since we have learned quite a few new instructions in the

above discussion, I have summarized them in the following chart.

Instr ! Function

DI Disables the MI

EI ! Enables the MI, after next instruction RETI Return from a MI

RETN ! Return from a NMI

1 t ! ! 1 IM @ ! Select interrupt mode @, forcing service from one of ! of the restarts

!

i)

1

1

!

1

IM 1! Select interrupt mode 1, forcing service from 38h IM 2 ! Select interrupt mode 2, forcing service from the ! vector indicated by interrupt vector and byte on the ! data bus HALT Suspend CPU operations by executing NOP’s until next interrupt

I hope this discussion gives some of you hardware hackers the information you need for a nifty project. I’1l look forward to seeing your ideas in Time Designs.

You now have all the Z8@ instructions. This series has been fun and hope has helped you get started. You can use this series

as a MC dictionary but, you need to write programs in order to become conversant in the language.

Next issue I will answer as many questions as I can, as a wrap-up to these lessons. Please send them quickly and direct to me, so that I can have enough time to give a meaningful answer. If I get too many for the next issue, I will answer them individually but, not as quickly.

Syd Wyncoop 2107 SE 155th Portland, Or 97233

_

OOO OR ORK ACO IO IR OOK IK IOK IK OKOK

* Demonstration Routines * RESO O I OO GAIA IORI IO IK

: The following are assorted useful routines that can be ;adapted for use in your programs.

;Convert Ascii to Binary

‘ pntesvAEAods character

Asc2Bin Sub "@" ;remove Ascii bias

Cp @Ah jis it larger than 9? Jr C,EndConv ;if is, we are done Sub @7h ;else remove more bias

EndConv Ret ;A=Binary number

116 Bit Comparison

ee HL=first number ; DE=second number

TExit: Flags are set as --- zero sign carry condition ; 1 @ @ HL=DE 3 @ @ @ HL>DE 3 @ . 1 HL<DE

iThis routine always sets zero if HL=DE. Carry indicates which iis larger, if set then DE>HL, else HL>DE. Sign will indicate swhich is larger, if are signed integers. If sign set, then ;DE>HL, else HL>DE.

Compi6 Or A ;clear carry Sbe HL, DE sis HL=DE? Ret PO ;return if so Ld A,H jinvert sign bit if overflowed Rra ;Save carry in bit 7 Xor 4@h ;complement sign bit 6 Sef sinsure answer <> @ Ade A.A ;restore carry and complimented sign Ret

;String Comparison

Amatyy: HL=Base of String 1 ; DE=Base of String 2

Exit:Flags are set as --- zero carry condition ; 1 ® HL=DE 3 @ 17) HL>DE

; @ 1 HL<DE

;This routine always sets zero if HL=DE. Carry indicates which ;is larger, if set then DE>HL, else HL>DE. The strings are ;assumed to be of length <=255 with a preceding byte that ;contains the length.

CompSte Ld A, (DE) ;get length of string 2

Cp (HL) ;compare length of string 1

Jr C,BegComp ;string 2 is shorter

Ld A, (HL) ;String 1 is shorter, get length BegComp Or A ;test if length=-0

Jr Z,ChkLen

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tExit:A=Binary number =

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Ld B,A ;B=# bytes to compare=length of

;shorter string

;Create IM 2 Kludge Block

Ex DE,HL ;swap pointers 3 Loop Ine DE sadjust pointers for next byte ;This sets up the kludge block referred to in the lesson. It Ine HL ;fills the area between FE@@n and FF@@h with the byte FDh. Ld A, (DE) jget next byte in string 1 c HL ; p (AL) ea eee bytenin ;You must place a Jp Address instruction at location FDFDh, Ret NZ ereturn if strings are not equal jas that is where the IM 2 vector will point. Djinz Loop ;loop until done o ChkLen Ld A, (string) jget length of string 1 Kludge Ld HL,FE@@h i;base of kludge block Ld HL, string2 ;point to length of string 2 x bea cs Coe on iload counter and data Cp (HL) jset or clear flags Loop Ld (HL),C sdo fill Ret Inc HL ;adjust pointer ; Djnz KLoop jloop to do first 256 bytes ; Ld (HL),C sand do last byte 32068 MC Pa Lala; BE Bes as oes Pe eer bcc Ld I.A ;put MSB in interrupt vector ; Im 2 ;change interrupt mode ;This routine assumes you are using the Rom keyscan and Ret

;will read the system variable that indicates a new key was ;pressed. The only exit from loop is to press a key.

Pause Bit 5, (flags) Ret NZ

Jr Pause

;someone pressed

QL CODEMASTER - QL Cryptography game. 150+ puzzles. Monitor mode only. $12 on mdv, $10 on qd/ds floppy. Add $5 for "C" source code. David Hoshor, 7 Bard Dr., Apt. B4, Hudson, OH 44236.

FOR SALE: QL, mounted in custom fan-cooled case. Centronics in- terface, Service & Owners manuals, programs: Choice w/ICE ROM, BJ in 3D, Bounder, Sign Designer, Super Astrologer II, Merge 2.0, Screen Dump & 4 Psion programs. Write or call: KRASH, PO Box 180, Schuyler Lake, NY 13457, (315) 858-2918. $300.00.

HELP WANTED: EDITOR(S) for Ver. 3.0 of The Guide to T/S Telecommuni- cations. Pete Fischer has no phone, Steve Ishii now has IBM. Replace- ments needed. Successful applicants will gain complete control over the project. Contact: Pete Fischer,

PO Box 2002, Tempe, AZ 85281.

FOR SALE: 3 SPDOS/SURF N/Ls, 3 T.D., 7 SUMs, 12 SYNCWAREs, ProFile 2068 Manual, SINC.USER 12/86, Sinclair User Annual, Your Computer mag 12/86, 26 BASIC progs. book, BASIC Games book, 8 QuarTerS N/Ls, OL World 2/87. $35 all, $1.50 ea.

C. Lytle, 1064 Worth Woods, Worthington, OH 43085, (614) 846-3543.

FOR SALE: TS2068 SOFTWARE.

"POKER 4C", a giant 4-reel slot with 4th reel re-spin. Stick or INKEYS. All BASIC and listable.

On cassette & includes postage $10.00. Write to: D. Jewett,

63 Charro Dr., Santa Rosa, CA 95401.

j;will be set by Rom keyboard routine

;loop until key pressed

]e CLASSIFIED

a key!

NEW SOFTWARE FOR THE 2068/Commo— dore 1520 printer/plotter: auto screen dump, banner maker, and compatability patch for MSCRIPT Ver.5. Send SASE to John McMichael, 1710 Palmer Dr., Laramie, WY, 82070.

WANTED: TS2068 computer, printer interface, 2050 modem, disc drive interface. Must be very reasonable in price. Ed Salter, 402 Pine Terrace Cir., Milton, FL 32570, (904) 623-8178.

FREE ADS FOR SUBSCRIBERS

WANTED: Contact from any TS or 2X users in the Fox.River Valley (Wisconsin). Is anyone out there? Call Greg at 731-0296 after 5 pm, or write to me at: 2300 N. Clark, Appleton, WI 54911.

WANTED: T/S 1500 COMPUTER and power supply. Write or Call:

Mike Maag, 1412 Pleasant View St., Staunton, VA 24401, (703) 885-3577.

WANTED: HUNTER BOARD. Write or Call: Burton Wright, 13622 N.W. Milburn, Portland, OR 97229, (503) 626-8104 (msg.).

FOR SALE: TS2068, TS2020, TS2040, power supplys/AC adaptor, Aerco printer interface, 2 joysticks,

3 books, 20 software (cass.& cart), W.P., bus., game, educ., misc. programs. All exc. cond. with docu- mentation. Will accept any reasonable offer. I will pay shipping costs if buy all. Call or write: Carolyn Bower, 560 Catalina, Wooster, OH, 44691, (216) 345-5337.

CADZ IS HERE! Design on a four screen page. 7 pages with 256K,

1 page with 64K. 33 commands. Fast MC. Requires AERCO disk & ARTWORX. $20.00 from LARRY ZUNK, 4800

E. Cedar Ln., Norman, OK 73017, (405) 366-8595. KKXXCLOSE-OUT SALEXX* JUMP ON THE BANDWAGON. North Peeves oe ane American Z88 Support Group forming. Send legal SASE for details:

Tim Woods, c/o TDM, 29722 Hult Road, Colton, OR 97017.

"DIAMOND MIKE” *GREAT GAMES AND GRAPHICS SHOW” Each originally sold for $24.95, but get both for just $9.95--while supplies last.

"INTEGER BASIC COMPILER” "260 ASSEMBLER” Both for $9.95 (while supplies last). Includes 19 pages of documentation

FOR SALE: Byte Back parallel interface w/driver software

$60 ppd. Gorilla Banana parallel printer w/re-inking kit $55 ppd. Ted DuPar, 21696 Cabrosa, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, (714) 583-9763.

JRC SOFTWARE 200 N. Main St. Scottsburg, IN 47170 (312) 752-6071

Do you have some equipment or a program that you would like to sell? Looking for something hard to find? Place an ad in THE CLASSIFIEDS! Subscribers can place one free personal ad in each issue. Ad size is 32 Col. wide (like 2040 paper) and maximum of six lines. For additional lines - $3 each. NON-SUBSCRIBERS and DEALERS: $4 a line.

DEADLINE FOR ALL CLASSIFIED ADS: Two weeks before publication date. Mail your ad to: TIME DESIGNS MAGAZINE, The Classifieds Dept., 29722 Hult Rd., Colton, Gregon 97017.

T/S 1000/ZX81

PROGRAMMING SReari PART ITI

HI sXRES

This is the final episode of a tutorial "mini- series" on the use of SRAM HI*#RES EXTENDED BASIC (SHR- EB). This time around, we’ll wrap up our coverage of UDG’s (User-Defined Graphics), and examine some of SHR- EB’s truly unique aspects: Sprites, window-scrolls C"pseudo-sprites")>), and the F-SAVE tape routines.

WHAT & DERL!

First, though, we’d like to make you an “offer you can’t refuse." Mr. Gregory C. Harder, main author of the SHR-EB, has developed a machine-code RLE Crun-length encoding) decoder for use in conjunction with SHR-EB. What’s more, he has written it up in a wonderful tutorial article and has given it into public domain. All he asks is that you supply a 6x?" or 9x12" envelope and $2 for photocopying and postage. I1’11 honor the same deal through Silicon Mountain. Send to Greg’s address a« given in the SHR-EB documentation, or to Silicon Mountain Computers.

So what is “RLE* anyway? Essentially, it is a “standard” of data transmission of graphics and pictures. Data encoded in this way is thus transportable to any machine capable of at least 256x192 pixel resolution (as your T/S using SHR-EB), regardless of what machine was used to create the picture. Compuserve and several BBS services have RLE pictures on file, that you can download and decode using Greg’s routines. Would you believe the "Japanese Girl" picture originally used to promote MacPaint,on your humble TS1000?7 Believe it! This an many others (some of them very striking?) can now be displayed right on your screen, F-SAVEd to tape, etc.

MORE UDG’ SsS, PLEASE

In the BLACKJACK program, we create the pictures of the cards entirely using UDG’s. If you tackle such a project yourself, you’l] soon realize that this approach can easily "eat up" more than the 128 UDG characters available in the "MODE 2" UDG buffer. Don’t despair? There are ways of getting almost unlimited numbers of UDG’s. 7

The most obvious approach is to define new UDG’s, as required, “on the fly." Redefining a UDG or set of UDG’s does NOT change what is already on the screen; after printing something using one set of UDG’s, simply redefine some or all of your UDG’s (perhaps by placing the definitions into a subroutine}. In principle, you could fill the whole screen with different UDG characters (768 unique characters) using six different sets of definitions (6*128=768).

However, the amount of memory that would be used by all these definitions, even using the compact hex format, make this approach somewhat impractical. In the case of the BLACKJACK program, I found that I had the following UDG requirements:

3 - S*8 face cards=3*40 = 120 "Vegas Bob" = 8

Fill character (back of cards) = 1 4 suit symbols = 4

4 upside-down suit symbols = 4

13 card symbols (A,2,3 etc.) = 13 13 upside-down card symbols =13

TOTAL UDG’s REQUIRED = 163

Note that just the face cards and “Vegas Bob" use up 128 UDG’s, the total number available. Where do we get the remaining 35 required UDG’s?

The first UDG-saving "trick" was to scan over the definitions of the face-cards, to find any duplicated definitions. Some of the UDG’s used more than once are the ones corresponding to P, Y, and inverse 6. This reduced the number of UDG’s needed by 9, allowing me to include the suit symbols (normal and inverted) and the

back-of-card Fill character. Now I only had to accomodate the 26 card numbers (13