info-mac@uw-beaver (info-mac) (07/19/84)
From: ERice%pco@CISL-SERVICE-MULTICS.ARPA Regarding Dan Feldman's query on the Apple 1200, I found two quirks with it most upsetting. One could be fixed, the other caused me to return it in swap for a Hayes 1200. The Apple 1200 had the most upsetting habit of dropping carrier when I hit the "Enter" button to send a BREAK down the line. This is correctable by changing the position of the third DIP switch, and upon close reading is even suggested by the manual (but was unknown to the local dealership). But, as shipped and documented for "normal" use by Apple, a BREAK is a big lose. The Apple 1200, nominally Hayes compatible, is also defined in its own manual to react to the escape sequence (plus-plus-plus, by default) by DROPPING CARRIER and turning its attention to the Apple (away from the communications line). If the purpose of the Attention Code was to (say) change parity and return to the communication (by means of "AT O" -- Attention, return Online), then the purpose is not ever to be achieved. This, however, is what the Apple manual says will happen, it does, and Apple says you can't "fix" it. The Hayes manual specifically says that the sequence will NOT drop carrier, it does not drop carrier, and it has proven highly useful since acquisition. So much for "compatible." Incidentally, anybody contemplating either should note how flimsy the power connector at the back of the Apple modem is, and also how bulky the power transformer is -- mine used up THREE plug-spaces on my Orange power protector/filter! My Hayes transformer only uses up two, still not great. About the playing fields for our mice: I have a kitchen cutting board of very slightly roughened plastic (stippled by the manufacturer, not sliced by me), about 1/3 inch thick and roughly 9x12" -- works great!