redbud@ihuxq.UUCP (Al Kelkhoff) (11/07/84)
I would like some information on how to set up a TRS-80 to be used as a terminal. I have a friend who is trying to do this so please give me all of the details on how to do this as I haven't done this before on a TRS-80. I want this so that I can call up the ih machines and use the TRS-80 as a terminal. thanks in advance al kelkhoff ihuxq!redbud
dwhitney@uok.UUCP (11/17/84)
Well, before many specifics can be offered, you need to tell us:
1) The exact type of TRS-80 you're speaking of; Model I, II, III,
IV, CoCo, Model 100, etc. and whether or not it has disk
capabilities..etc.
2) You will need what is called a "modem;" if you don't know what
that is its a thing which converts computer signals to phone
signals and vice-versa; a "modulator-demodulator." There are
two types: direct-connect, and acoustic. Typically (meaning
in my own personal experience) the direct-connect are much
more reliable. There are literally dozens of good modems
around, so shop around for the best features at the best price.
3) You will need a "terminal program." Because your TRS-80 is
a computer in and of itself, not just a "dumb" terminal, it
must be given software in order to accept information from
the phone lines. Radio Shack sells a package called "Vidtex,"
which I use and find excellent for my purposes; they sell a
version for all of their systems, I believe. The Model IV
operating system is supplied with a good (now that its been
fixed, but that's another story...) communications program
called COMM.
Once you have the above things, you typically load the communicatons
program, dial the phone number of the "host" system, throw a switch
(or press a button) on your modem, and your hooked up once your
system replies to the hosts "data carrier" (a high pitched whistle
when it answers your call.) Then your in business.
That's a kind of "framework" for how its done. There are some
caveats:
1) If your used to a 9600 baud terminal at your place of work
or location where you normally use a terminal, you'll
quickly become annoyed at the slowness of 300 baud. Most
modems operate at 300 baud; while there are faster ones,
they considerably more expensive.
2) Some "terminal programs" are "smarter" than others; some
will allow you to download/upload files to/from your system
to/from the "host" system; others simply send and receive
characters. Again, check out the specifics on the program
you want, and compare prices...
OH, well, I've rambled enough. But that is a basic outline of
what is needed. I hope it is of help.
David Whitney
ctvax!uokvax!uok!dwhitney