RCONN@SIMTEL20.ARPA (Rick Conn) (08/26/85)
John, I would say that the first step is to buy the book "ZCPR3: The Manual" (I know it sounds like I am plugging my own book here). The reason is that the manual is the most complete source for all info on the ZCPR3 System - it describes usage, all the tools, theory of operation, and installation. When it comes to installation, there are two options: (1) manual install and (2) automatic install via Z3-DOT-COM (a comercial product from Echelon). Automatic install is the easiest (taking only minutes) an not very expensive (I don't remember the price, but I don't think it is too high). Manual install takes a lot more time but produces the best results (the Z3 System is on the System Tracks). If you decide to do the manual install, get the "ZCPR3 Installation Workbook" -- it helps a lot. Also, for full functionality you would want to consider the document "ZCPR3 and IOPs", which discusses the implementation of I/O Packages under ZCPR3 (which can be used for disk I/O redirection, function key operation, arrays of I/O devices, and other useful capabilities). Finally, but not least, read thru the Echelon newsletters. There are 27 of them now: Z3NEWS 001-009, 101-109, and 201-209. 301 just came out (making 28), and they come out every 2 weeks. Acquisition Data: ZCPR3: The Manual (paperback book, available from Echelon for $20 or the Library of Computer and Information Sciences and the Small Computer Book Club [if you are a member] for less) ZCPR3 Installation Workbook - free (available on Z-Nodes via downloading or from Echelon in hardcopy for a minor cost) ZCPR3 and IOPs - free (available on Z-Nodes via downloading or from Echelon in hardcopy for $10) Z-News Newsletters - free (available on Z-Nodes via downloading or from Echelon for a minor subscription fee in hardcopy) Many non-Z-Nodes (RCPMs) are carrying the doc files also. Echelon can be written to: Echelon, Inc 101 First St Suite 427 Los Altos, CA 94022 415-948-3820 The newsletters provide tons of information on other items, such as ZRDOS, Z-System tools, etc, which may be of interest also. Rick -------