Info-IBMPC@C.ISI.EDU.UUCP (04/05/87)
Info-IBMPC Digest Saturday, 4 April 1987 Volume 6 : Issue 22
This Week's Editor: Billy Brackenridge
Today's Topics:
MS PRODUCTS FIT TOGETHER IN LONG-TERM STRATEGY
Microsoft XENIX System V/386 Product Information
Windows 2.0 Product Information
OS/2 SDK APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT TOOLS
OS/2(TM) SDK Product Information
OS/2 Windows Presentation Manager Product Information
OS/2(TM) FUNCTIONALITY, GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE
Microsoft Operating System/2(TM) Product Information
Microsoft OS/2(TM) LAN Manager Product Information
MICROSOFT(R) MOUSE TO SUPPORT IBM PERSONAL SYSTEM/2
MS OS/2(TM) LAN MANAGER, LOCAL AREA NETWORKING PRODUCT
MS-DOS(R) VERSION 3.3 OFFERS IMPROVED FEATURES
Microsoft(R) MS-DOS(R) Version 3.3 Product Information
SOFTWARE, MEDIA SUPPORT FOR IBM PERSONAL SYSTEM/2
INFO-IBMPC BBS Phone Numbers: (213)827-2635 (213)827-2515
[Following are the Microsoft press releases for their new products. -wab]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
From: qe0n
Subject: MS PRODUCTS FIT TOGETHER IN LONG-TERM STRATEGY
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:13:08 1987
MICROSOFT PRODUCTS FIT TOGETHER IN LONG-TERM STRATEGY
REDMOND, WA -- APRIL 2, 1987 -- Microsoft's announcement today of
a whole range of new products is part of a carefully thought-out
long-term strategy to help the personal computer industry make the
transition to new high-performance systems, to make that transition
as simple as possible, and to protect the investment by users in
current hardware and software.
Microsoft's strategy involves moving along five broad fronts to
guarantee a steady progression path for developers and users alike:
1) to develop a powerful new operating system, MS OS/2(TM), that
takes full advantage of the 80286/386 microprocessors, leading to
many new sophisticated PC-based applications;
2) to ensure that the huge installed base of applications running
under the current operating system, MS-DOS(R), will also run under
the new MS OS/2 in the "compatibility box";
3) to continue enhancements and product development for MS-DOS,
focusing on usability and improved performance.
4) to provide a new graphical user interface for the new
generation; to provide a visually compatible graphical interface for
the current generation.
5) to provide sophisticated networking for the new generation that
is also compatible with current Microsoft Networks.
THE NEW GENERATION
Announcement of the new generation of systems software was made in
conjunction with IBM's announcement of new hardware based on the
80286/386; however, Microsoft's new MS OS/2 is designed to be
compatible with all 80286/386 systems and is also being made
available to Microsoft's other operating system OEMs.
The "new generation" includes these products:
o MS OS/2, a multi-tasking operating system that provides PC
developers and users the kind of power now associated more with
minicomputer systems than with PCs; and Windows presentation manager
as the standard graphical user interface. MS OS/2 will also run
MS-DOS applications.
o Microsoft LAN Manager, a sophisticated new networking system
that allows for true distributed software on PC systems and can also
be linked to Microsoft's existing MS-DOS and XENIX(R) networks.
o MS OS/2 Software Development Kit, which includes the MS OS/2
kernel, language compilers, specifications for Microsoft LAN Manager
and presentation manager, and all other components required for
software developers to begin writing MS OS/2 applications. Of all the
products announced today, this one has the most immediate impact. Its
August release will trigger the start of actual work on the next
generation of PC software.
o Recently announced version of XENIX for the 80386 that takes
full advantage of the 32-bit architecture and allows for development
of XENIX programs of virtually unlimited size, yet is fully
compatible with all existing XENIX software running on the 80286. It
will be compatible with all 80386 systems, including the Personal
System/2(TM) from IBM.
CURRENT GENERATION
Microsoft's goal is to provide regular updates to its existing
generation of software. The ones announced today include:
o New release of MS-DOS, version 3.3, with better performance,
better utilization of hard disks, and improved support for foreign
language versions. Regular enhancements to MS-DOS are anticipated
over time.
o New release of Microsoft Windows, version 2.0, with the same
visual appearance as the new MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager,
and with as much as fourfold improvements in graphic output over
earlier versions of Microsoft Windows. A number of keyboard and mouse
operations are streamlined.
o IBM-compatible applications. Microsoft announced new 3.5-inch
diskettes and a version of the Microsoft Mouse that provide hardware
compatibility with the new IBM(R) Personal Systems/2. Various
Microsoft applications products will be enhanced over time to take
advantage of the high-resolution graphics on the new systems.
Together, these series of products illustrate Microsoft's
commitment to developing innovative technology, to providing support
for current technology, to making the two generations as compatible
as possible, and to providing an orderly transition path between
them.
------------------------------
From: qe0n
Subject: Microsoft XENIX System V/386 Product Information
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:13:03 1987
Introduction
Microsoft(R) XENIX(R) System V/386 is the first release of
Microsoft's implementation of the UNIX(R) System V Operating System
for the Intel(R) 80386 microprocessor.
Product Features
XENIX System V/386:
- provides support for multiple users working on terminals.
- is fully compatible with XENIX System V/286, and is thus able to
execute (without modification or recompilation) the over 500
commercially available programs developed for XENIX System V/286.
- provides maximum "32-bit performance":
- takes full advantage of the 32-bit features of the Intel 80386
microprocessor.
- provides demand paged, virtual memory (the ability to execute
programs of virtually unlimited size).
- is compatible with AT&T's System V Interface Definition,
allowing programs to be ported from other UNIX-based computers.
- provides support to allow MS-DOS(R) programs to be run as XENIX
tasks, thus providing access for XENIX users to the MS-DOS
application software base.
Product Background
XENIX is Microsoft's multi-user solution - a solution that allows
multiple users to be attached via inexpensive terminals to a single
machine, thereby allowing the users to share the resources of the
machine. It is also compatible with the UNIX System V Operating
System - an operating system that is highly portable, and is to be
found on a wide variety of architectures: large mainframes,
minicomputers, technical and scientific workstations, and personal
computers.
Starting in 1981, Microsoft has marketed its adaptation of the
UNIX Operating System under the name XENIX. Microsoft's goal was to
provide high quality implementations of UNIX for computer systems
based upon microprocessors. In doing so, Microsoft has become one of
the major licensees of the UNIX Operating System, accounting for the
majority of implementations sold upon microprocessor-based systems.
In particular, a large application base has been built around
Microsoft XENIX System V/286 for systems based upon the Intel 80286
microprocessor. Microsoft XENIX System V/386 for the Intel 80386 will
preserve this application base, while opening up the full potential
of the 80386 to developers and users.
XENIX System V/286 has been licensed by such companies as Altos,
Apricot, IBM, Mitsubishi, NEC, Olivetti, Siemens, Tandy, Wang and
Zenith.
Product Q&A
How does XENIX System V/386 differ from XENIX System V/286?
XENIX System V/386 utilizes the 32-bit mode of the Intel 80386
microprocessor, allowing the development and use of much larger
"32-bit" programs. However, the system retains the ability to execute
"16-bit" programs developed for XENIX System V/286.
When will XENIX System V/386 be generally available and from whom?
XENIX System V/386 will be available for licensing by OEM
customers of Microsoft in the second quarter of 1987. In addition,
the product will be available through Microsoft's partners in the
UNIX business: The Santa Cruz Operation (who will provide a retail
version of the product) and Interactive Systems Corporation.
------------------------------
From: qe0n Thu Apr 2 07:09:30 1987
Subject: Windows 2.0 Product Information
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:12:47 1987
Product Information
Microsoft(R) Windows Version 2.0
Introduction
Microsoft Windows version 2.0 is the next major release of
Microsoft Windows for MS-DOS(R)-based PCs. Version 2.0 also provides
a new user interface which is visually compatible with the Microsoft
OS/2(TM) Windows presentation manager.
Product Features
Microsoft Windows version 2.0 includes the following added features:
- increased output performance for Windows applications
- enhanced data exchange support for non-Windows based applications
- support for running multiple applications in expanded memory
- new visual interface with overlapping windows
- enhanced keyboard interface
Microsoft Windows version 2.0 supports all IBM Personal Computers
(except the IBM(R) PCjr and IBM PC Convertible) and 100% compatible
machines. Microsoft Windows version 2.0 is compatible with existing
Microsoft Windows applications.
The visual interface of Windows version 2.0 adopts the same design
as the MS OS/2(TM) Windows presentation manager currently being
jointly developed by Microsoft and IBM. This visual interface
provides overlapping windows and an improved interface allowing the
user better control over the screen layout and easier interaction
with applications.
Microsoft Windows version 2.0 also includes significant
performance enhancements. The processing and display of information
on the display has been considerably improved and for some
applications can result in a fourfold increase in speed. A new memory
manager allows efficient use of expanded memory hardware. This allows
a single application to be larger than 640Kb, and for the user to
switch rapidly between large applications which are running
simultaneously.
Product Background
First released in November 1985, Microsoft Windows has become one
of the most popular graphics-based workstation environments for
personal computers. Microsoft has licensed more than 850,000 units
of Microsoft Windows world-wide and has also provided the foundation
for a new generation of applications software, including CAD-CAM,
financial trading desktop publishing, and corporate software
development. Over 300 commercial software developers have publicly
committed to developing Microsoft Windows applications, and over 50
hardware manufacturers are currently supporting Windows with various
memory, display, printer, and pointing devices. In addition, over 15
major OEMs have licensed and are shipping Microsoft Windows.
Product Q & A
When will Microsoft Windows version 2.0 be available from Microsoft?
Windows version 2.0 is scheduled to ship in the third quarter of 1987.
Will an update be made available to existing Windows owners?
Yes. Microsoft will offer an update to all Microsoft registered
Windows customers. Those registered users who obtain the current
version of the Microsoft packaged product on or after April 1, 1987,
will be offered the update to version 2.0 for free. Any registered
user who licensed Microsoft Windows prior to that date will be
offered the update for a nominal update fee.
Will application software developed under previous versions of
Microsoft Windows work with version 2.0?
If the application follows standard Windows development
conventions, the product should run without modification under
version 2.0.
Is there anything special required to take advantage of the increased
expanded memory support for version 2.0?
The design for version 2.0 is upwardly compatible with existing
expanded memory specifications, and can be supported by all expanded
memory devices, provided that the board manufacturer includes a
Microsoft defined set of extensions to its software driver. The
extensions specification is available from Microsoft to all expanded
memory board manufacturers.
------------------------------
From: qe0n
Subject: OS/2 SDK APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT TOOLS
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:12:40 1987
MICROSOFT OPERATING SYSTEM/2(TM) SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT KIT PROVIDES TOOLS TO
ALLOW APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT FOR NEW OPERATING SYSTEM
Redmond, WA -- APRIL 2, 1987 -- Microsoft Corporation today
announced the MS OS/2(TM) Software Development Kit, which allows
software developers to begin the work of moving applications software
to the new MS OS/2 for 80286 and 80386-based personal computers.
The developer's toolkit contains a beta-release version of the MS
OS/2 system kernel, technical specifications for the MS OS/2 Windows
presentation manager and MS OS/2 LAN Manager, new versions of
Microsoft's macro assembler (MASM) and C language compilers, the
CodeView(TM) debugger and other software development tools, including
a programmer's editor.
Containing all the components that developers require to write
applications for this new environment, the toolkit will be regularly
updated by Microsoft until the final release of MS OS/2. These
updates will include the MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager and MS
OS/2 LAN manager software components and associated development
tools. Microsoft will also be providing intensive training and
support services to users of the toolkit.
"With IBM's announcement of the availability of IBM Operating
System/2(TM) to end-users in the first quarter of 1988, this toolkit
will be extremely important to developers," said Steven Ballmer, vice
president of systems software for Microsoft. "The release of the
toolkit marks the point at which protected-mode applications software
development can really begin."
Planned for release on August 1 and priced at $3,000 (U.S.), the
development toolkit includes an attendance credit for a technical
seminar, a one-year license for Microsoft's Direct Information Access
Line (DIAL) system, an electronic mail technical support service, and
a subscription to the Microsoft Systems Journal. Direct telephone
support is available for another $1,000 annually.
"Because the toolkit is a complete set of development tools,
applications developers will be able to begin serious work on the
design and development of protected-mode applications which utilize
the complete MS OS/2 environment, including the MS OS/2 Windows
presentation manager and LAN manager services," said Ballmer.
"Training and support are also very important components of the
toolkit. The specifications alone run to more than two thousand
pages. By offering this high level of support and training in advance
of the end-user availability of MS OS/2, we are doing everything we
can to help the development community."
Regular updates to the Software Development Kit are included in
the licensing fee. Updates will, over time, include the MS OS/2
Windows presentation manager and the MS OS/2 LAN Manager software
products and associated development tools. The first technical
training seminars are scheduled for Seattle, June 2-4, and New York,
July 8- 9. Further seminars will be held in September and October.
------------------------------
From: qe0n Thu Apr 2 07:07:42 1987
Subject: OS/2(TM) SDK Product Information
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:12:33 1987
Introduction
The Microsoft Operating System/2 Software Development Kit (MS
OS/2(TM) SDK) is a release of Microsoft OS/2(TM) for software
developers which includes a comprehensive set of software development
tools. The MS OS/2 SDK will enable developers to begin design and
development of MS OS/2 applications and systems products in advance
of the general end-user release of MS OS/2. Microsoft is also
providing comprehensive product support services and training
seminars for developers using the MS OS/2 SDK.
All of the software components of the MS OS/2 SDK are pre-release
versions of the final products. These components will be updated
regularly by Microsoft until the final end-user releases become
available. Microsoft already supplies a Windows Software Development
Kit for the MS-DOS(R) version of Windows.
Product Features
The first release of the MS OS/2 SDK includes the following components:
- Microsoft Operating System/2 configured for use on a range of
popular personal computers, including the IBM(R) PC AT(R), COMPAQ(R)
Deskpro 386 and Zenith Z-248 and Z-386 PCs
- Microsoft C Compiler version 4.5
- Microsoft Macro Assembler (MASM) version 4.5
- Microsoft CodeView(TM) debugger
- Microsoft linker
- other program development utilities including a full screen editor
- complete documentation for all of the above
The Microsoft C compiler and MASM assembler are upward compatible
versions of Microsoft's current MS-DOS based retail products
(Microsoft C version 4.0 and MASM 4.0). These new releases of the
language products incorporate several new features for the MS OS/2
environment, including the ability to compile and link programs which
will run in either real or protected mode under MS OS/2, as well as
significant improvements in the code optimization of the C compiler.
In addition to the software items listed previously, each licensee
of the MS OS/2 SDK will receive an automatic one-year subscription to
the Microsoft Direct Information Access Line (DIAL), Microsoft's
electronic mail-based product support system. This will be
supplemented by information to be published in the Microsoft Systems
Journal and three-day training seminars given by Microsoft technical
personnel. The seminars will begin in June. Each license of the MS
OS/2 SDK includes attendance at a training seminar for no additional
charge.
All of the above items are part of the first release of the MS
OS/2 SDK. In addition, the first release of the MS OS/2 SDK will
include specifications for the MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager
and the MS OS/2 LAN Manager. Pre release versions of these software
components and the associated software development tools will be
released to developers in the form of updates to the MS OS/2 SDK.
Product Background
The MS OS/2 SDK comprises several software components. The basic
program development tools, including the C compiler and macro
assembler, are the latest versions of current Microsoft products. The
MS OS/2 operating system in the SDK is a pre-release version of the
product. The MS OS/2 LAN Manager is the newly announced local area
networking system designed for the MS OS/2 environment.
Product Q & A
What personal computers does the MS OS/2 SDK run on?
The product will run on a number of current personal computers
including the IBM PC AT, the COMPAQ Deskpro 286 and Deskpro 386, the
Zenith Z-241, Z-248 and Z-386, and machines compatible with these
systems. The MS OS/2 product itself is designed to run on any 80286
or 80386-based personal computer and, as is the case with MS-DOS, the
product will be licensed through PC manufacturers (OEMs) who adapt,
test and market the product for their particular machines.
What machine configuration is required by the MS OS/2 SDK?
The recommended system configuration is 1.5 Mb of memory, a
hard-disk, and a graphics display and adapter. To use the MS OS/2 LAN
Manager, a PC-compatible network interface card is required.
Why is the MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager not being provided
with the first release of the MS OS/2 SDK?
The development of the entire MS OS/2 systems software platform,
including the operating system kernel, the Windows presentation
manager, and the LAN Manager is a lengthy and complex project. It
also takes time for application developers to analyze and understand
the capabilities of this new generation of systems software. For
example, the specifications of the kernel and presentation manager
amount to more than one thousand pages of documentation. Thus, this
first release of the MS OS/2 SDK includes a full specification for
all components, plus program development tools and a development base
for initial design and implementation of new applications. The MS
OS/2 Windows presentation manager and MS OS/2 LAN Manager software
components will be available as updates to the MS OS/2 SDK in the
near future.
How much does the SDK cost?
Microsoft will be licensing the MS OS/2 SDK for $3,000 a copy.
Why is the SDK so expensive?
The SDK is not expensive. In order to provide the very high level
of detailed technical support that users of the SDK will require,
Microsoft has to have a large, highly trained support staff. Thus our
costs are very high. We expect to help a large number of developers
build products for the new systems software platform and, thereby,
assist in the provision of those applications to end-users.
------------------------------
From: qe0n
Subject: OS/2 Windows Presentation Manager Product Information
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:12:26 1987
Product Information
Microsoft OS/2 Windows Presentation Manager
Introduction
The Windows presentation manager is the graphical user-interface
component of Microsoft Operating System/2(TM).
Product Features
The Windows presentation manager provides a windowed, graphical,
user interface to MS OS/2(TM) users. It replaces the MS OS/2 command
line interface with a full-function user shell. This shell features:
- The ability to run windowed and non-windowed programs
- A simple user-interface for MS OS/2 file management functions
- Support for mouse or keyboard driven operation
In addition to providing these capabilities, the MS OS/2 Windows
presentation manager also provides a powerful application environment
for software developers. Applications written to make use of this
environment can take advantage of:
- Priority based, time-sliced, multi-tasking
- A device independent output architecture
- A sophisticated graphics library
- Intertask communication and data interchange facilities
Product Background
The Microsoft OS/2 Windows presentation manager is an evolution of
the Microsoft(R) Windows product first released in November 1985.
Microsoft Windows is supported by all the leading personal computer
manufacturers. Over 850,000 copies of it have been sold since its
first release.
Microsoft is developing the OS/2 Windows presentation manager with
IBM(R) under the auspices of the IBM/Microsoft Joint Development
Agreement.
Product Q & A
When will the MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager be available?
Alpha test versions of the software will be available late this
year. This software will be provided to purchasers of the MS OS/2
Software Development Kit. Although final release dates are determined
by our OEM customers, we expect that the product will be available in
1988.
How will the MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager be distributed?
The Windows presentation manager is an integral part of Microsoft
Operating System/2. It will be available through OEM customers as a
component of MS OS/2.
How different is it from Microsoft Windows?
The Windows presentation manager and Microsoft Windows version 2.0
have very similar user interfaces. The Application Programming
Interface and Device Driver Interface have changed to accommodate the
protected mode features of MS OS/2, to improve the graphics library,
and to standardize on coding conventions.
Why did you change the user interface?
Since the original release of Microsoft Windows, we have been
asked by many OEMs and ISVs to make changes in the user interface.
Overlapped windows have been a very common request.
The keyboard interface of Windows has been changed to better
accommodate the needs of MS OS/2 and the new User Shell and to
provide keyboard shortcuts to most menu and dialog box items.
Why did you change the programming interface?
The MS OS/2 platform is a new environment for software developers.
To take advantage of its new features, existing software will have to
be modified. For this reason, we thought it a convenient time to make
some changes to the Windows programming interface as well.
Many of the Windows API changes are to standardize on coding
practices. Windows routines will use the same practices used by the
kernel components of MS OS/2. Other changes are required by the new
graphics library. This has substantially greater functionality and a
different architecture; it requires a different programming
interface. Finally, some changes are dictated by the protected mode
nature of MS OS/2.
How difficult will it be to modify current Microsoft Windows
applications to run under the MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager?
Most of the required modifications will be trivial. For example,
the names of the API calls will have to be changed. Because the
graphics library has changed, applications which make heavy use of
graphics will require the most changes.
------------------------------
From: qe0n
Subject: OS/2(TM) FUNCTIONALITY, GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:12:17 1987
MICROSOFT OS/2(TM) OFFERS SIGNIFICANT NEW FUNCTIONALITY FOR PERSONAL COMPUTERS
AND INTEGRATED GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE
Redmond, WA -- APRIL 2, 1987 -- Microsoft Corporation's new
operating system product, Microsoft Operating System/2(TM) (MS
OS/2(TM)), is an advanced single-user, multi-tasking operating
system for personal computers.
MS OS/2 provides a built-in graphical user interface, the MS OS/2
Windows presentation manager, as the standard user interface to the
system. MS OS/2 provides full support for protected mode operation of
80286 and 80386 personal computers, allowing applications to take
advantage of up to 16M bytes of real memory or 1 gigabyte of virtual
memory on 80286-based machines compared to the current real-mode
limitation of 640K bytes under the MS-DOS(R) operating system.
MS OS/2 consists of the operating system kernel and the Windows
presentation manager, which provides a standard graphical user
interface and graphical applications services for MS OS/2. MS OS/2
can run most existing applications designed for MS-DOS.
Among some of the sophisticated new capabilities of the operating
system, MS OS/2 provides a sophisticated priority-based pre-emptive
multi-tasking environment which is supported by a comprehensive set
of inter-task communication capabilities. This allows new
applications to be designed as a closely cooperating set of tasks
which can provide the user, running new applications, with improved
system efficiency and background processing capabilities. This
allows, for example, a spreadsheet application to carry out
recalculation simultaneously with user input, or the processing of
multiple concurrent database queries.
MS OS/2 also provides a new application interface which isolates
applications from low-level hardware differences between machines
running MS OS/2. Applications can be developed that are compatible
across all machines running MS OS/2. This interface will also be
consistent with future releases of MS OS/2 designed to take advantage
of the additional capabilities of the 80386 processor.
The MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager, derived from the current
Microsoft(R) Windows product, provides a graphical user interface and
a device- independent graphical application environment. The visual
appearance of the MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager is based on
the use of multiple overlapping application display windows. A new
release of Microsoft Windows for MS-DOS personal computers, planned
for release in the third quarter of 1987, will adopt the same visual
interface, providing users with a consistent graphical user interface
across Microsoft's single-user operating system product line.
MS OS/2 will be licensed to Microsoft's existing OEM customers.
Phased release of MS OS/2 to OEM customers will begin in the fourth
quarter of 1987. Versions of MS OS/2 can be provided, by these
customers, for existing machines, such as the IBM(R) PC AT(R), as
well as new 80286 and 80386 systems. Microsoft anticipates that MS
OS/2 will be generally available to end users in 1988.
Microsoft plans to begin shipment on August 1 of the MS OS/2
Software Development Kit. The Software Development Kit will contain
pre-release versions of the MS OS/2 system kernel, technical
specifications for the MS OS/2 Windows presentation manager, and MS
OS/2 LAN Manager, language compilers, and other software tools
necessary for developers to begin design and development of
applications for MS OS/2. The Software Development Kit will be
regularly updated by Microsoft.
------------------------------
From: qe0n Thu Apr 2 07:06:29 1987
Subject: Microsoft Operating System/2(TM) Product Information
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:12:10 1987
Microsoft Operating System/2(TM)
Introduction
Microsoft Operating System/2 (MS OS/2(TM)) is Microsoft's next
generation operating system for IBM(R) personal computers and
compatible machines. MS OS/2 comprises the operating system kernel
and the Windows presentation manager. The Windows presentation
manager provides the graphical user interface and graphical
application services for MS OS/2.
Product Features
MS OS/2 is an advanced single-user multi-tasking operating system
for 80286 and 80386-based personal computers. MS OS/2 supports both
real and protected mode operation of the 286 and 386 processors. This
allows the user to run both existing applications designed for the
current MS-DOS(R) operating system, and new protected mode
applications designed specifically for MS OS/2. The new protected
mode applications can exploit the advanced features of MS OS/2
including:
- Multi-tasking
- Priority based pre-emptive scheduling
- Relief from the 640k memory restriction; MS OS/2 applications can utilize
the full address space of the 80286 processor, 16mb of real memory or 1gb of
virtual memory.
- New CALL based full-function application program interface (API)
- Built-in graphics services provided by the MS OS/2 presentation manager
MS OS/2 is compatible with all versions of MS-DOS including
version 3.3. It supports all the new version 3.3 enhancements
including increased disk storage capacity. Most existing MS-DOS
applications will run unchanged under MS OS/2. MS-DOS applications
can be run only as foreground applications.
MS OS/2 is fully defined by the specifications included within the
Microsoft OS/2 Software Development Kit, which also includes MS OS/2
itself and a comprehensive set of MS OS/2 application development
tools. The Software Development Kit is scheduled for general release
to application developers in August 1987, and will be accompanied by
a series of training seminars to be held in the USA, Europe and
Japan.
The operating system component of MS OS/2 is planned for final
release to OEMs in the fourth quarter of 1987. Microsoft anticipates
that it will be generally available to end-users in 1988. The Windows
presentation manager is planned for release to OEMs in the first half
of 1988. In the interim period, an OEM customer has the option of
providing a character-based user interface to end-users. This
interface will be part of the first release of MS OS/2.
Product Background
Microsoft Operating System/2 was jointly developed by IBM and
Microsoft and is the first product to be announced under the
Microsoft/IBM Joint Development Agreement.
Many leading manufacturers of personal computers have expressed an
interest in licensing the product.
Product Q & A
What personal computers does it run on?
The product is designed to run on any 80286 or 80386-based
personal computer. As is the case with MS-DOS, the product is sold
only through PC manufacturers (OEMs) who adapt, test and market the
product for their machines.
The recommended system configuration is 1.5 mb of RAM and a hard
disk. To use the Windows presentation manager, a display and adapter
capable of producing graphics is required.
Why is this product important?
MS OS/2 provides the platform for the next generation of personal
computer applications software. It delivers the full capabilities of
the hardware technology to the application developer and thus to the
end-user. In addition, the built in graphical subsystem -- the MS
OS/2 Windows presentation manager -- provides exciting new
possibilities in the design of these applications. There are also new
capabilities which can be exploited by network applications.
Why is the Windows presentation manager such an important part of MS OS/2?
The provision of a standard graphical user interface is an
important feature of MS OS/2. Also the provision of a standard
graphics environment within the operating system, together with the
hardware capable of supporting that environment with excellent
performance, will enable applications developers to concentrate upon
designing and implementing high performance, high function
applications while relying upon the operating system for
sophisticated interaction with the user. We believe this will result
in some exciting and productive advances in the applications products
which are available to the end-user.
Is the Windows presentation manager required or is it optional?
The Windows presentation manager is the graphical user interface
designed by Microsoft for the operating system.
When will there be a 80386 specific version of MS OS/2?
This product runs on both 80286 and 80386-based PCs. A version that takes
advantage of some of the unique 80386 features such as 32-bit linear address
space, demand paging, and 8086 virtual machine support is forthcoming. No date
has been established for its release.
Why did you choose to provide a 286 version of MS OS/2 first? Would it not
be better to have targeted the 386?
Although there has been a lot of recent publicity associated with
the 386, 286-based PCs have already achieved significant market
acceptance. It is important to provide a version of MS OS/2 to those
users and to allow application developers to provide new protected
mode products to that installed base of machines. We do expect that,
over time, 386-based machines will enjoy the largest market share,
but this will take at least two to three years to happen. Providing a
version of MS OS/2 for 286-based machines first meets the current
needs of the developers and the end-users. A later version which
fully exploits the 386 will be provided in a timeframe consistent
with market needs.
How quickly do you expect end-users to begin using MS OS/2 after it is
released?
This depends almost entirely upon the availability of applications
software for MS OS/2. In the short term there are unlikely to be very
many users converting to MS OS/2, but as new applications become
available, we expect MS OS/2 to be attractive to many end users.
Some developers seem to have little interest in the 286, but
prefer the 386. Will this slow down the availability of applications
for MS OS/2?
No. The MS OS/2 application program interface (API) will be
consistent between 286 and 386 implementations. A developer can
design and implement protected mode applications for the 286 which
will run immediately on 386-based machines. The great majority of
this effort would be needed for a 386 only application anyway, so we
expect developers to begin with a 286 implementation and later on
look at incorporating 386 specific improvements to their products.
------------------------------
From: qe0n Thu Apr 2 07:05:49 1987
Subject: Microsoft OS/2(TM) LAN Manager Product Information
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:11:55 1987
Product Information
Microsoft OS/2(TM) LAN Manager
Introduction
The MS OS/2(TM) LAN Manager provides full local area networking
capabilities to computers running the Microsoft OS/2 operating
system. Fully compatible with previous versions of Microsoft(R)
Networks for both the MS-DOS(R) and XENIX(R) operating systems, the
MS OS/2 LAN Manager incorporates advanced features such as a high
performance non-dedicated server, a network security system, and
powerful network administration tools. A system running MS OS/2 and
the MS OS/2 LAN Manager can be added to an existing Microsoft
Networks-based network, where it can function simultaneously as both
a server and workstation.
The MS OS/2 LAN Manager is tightly integrated with MS OS/2 and
fully supports the MS OS/2 system level interfaces including network
interprocess communication facilities. MS OS/2 applications can be
written to work equally well as stand-alone applications or as fully
distributed application programs running on separate physical
machines.
Product Features
- High performance non-dedicated server takes advantage of large
memory support and the protected mode operation of the MS OS/2
operating system.
- User based security system with log-on and server-based password
control, group names, and audit trailing.
- Advanced network administration tools including an easy to
understand user interface, remote server control, and restricted
server access.
- Compatibility with Microsoft Networks version 1.0, Microsoft
Networks for XENIX, and the IBM(R) PC Local Area Network Program.
- Remote interprocess communication facilities allowing the
creation of truly distributed networking application software.
- Uses a protected mode Netbios adaptation layer for integration
with OEM specific networking cards.
- Open architecture enables customization of features by
networking suppliers.
- Published system interfaces and protocols provide a strong
platform on which third party networking software can build.
Product Background
Microsoft Networks version 1.0 was first released in June of 1985
and quickly became a major network product among PC networking
suppliers. IBM, NEC, Digital Equipment, Hewlett Packard, Olivetti,
AT&T, 3Com and Ungermann Bass are some of the customers who
recognized the importance of MS-Net's unique integration with the
MS-DOS operating system.
Since its original introduction, Microsoft Networks and the IBM PC
Network Program have established important programming standards for
writing networking software, specifically the MS-DOS 3.1 networking
extensions, the Netbios interface, and the SMB protocols.
The Microsoft OS/2 LAN Manager is Microsoft's second generation of
Local Area Networking software, providing MS-Net compatibility plus
advanced new features.
Product Q & A
How can I license a copy of the MS OS/2 LAN Manager?
The MS OS/2 LAN Manager will be licensed to OEM customers.
Application developers will be able to acquire the necessary
development tools as part of the Microsoft OS/2 Software Development
Kit.
When will the MS OS/2 LAN Manager be available?
A specification of the product will be shipped with the Microsoft
OS/2 Software Development Kit. This will enable applications
developers to begin network application design.
How do I get more information about writing networking software
that works with the Microsoft OS/2 LAN Manager?
Because the MS OS/2 LAN Manager is closely linked with the MS OS/2
operating system, applications at the system level automatically work
transparently across the network. Consequently, developers writing
network aware applications merely need to use standard MS OS/2
programming tools such as those supplied with the MS OS/2 Software
Development Kit. To write applications that take direct advantage of
the additional capabilities of the MS OS/2 LAN Manager, developers
should consult the information included with the MS OS/2 Software
Development Kit.
Will IBM also be shipping a similar product?
We are not at liberty to comment upon IBM's plans.
Can I run older versions of network products, such as Microsoft
Networks 1.0 ("MS-Net") on the same network as the MS OS/2 LAN
Manager?
Yes. All prior versions of Microsoft Networks and XENIX Networks
can communicate with an MS OS/2 LAN Manager configured PC connected
to the same network. In fact, when the LAN Manager is configured as a
server, the Microsoft Networks workstations benefit from the improved
performance of the MS OS/2 LAN Manager server.
Will Microsoft Networks on MS-DOS-based PCs be updated to take
advantage of new MS OS/2 LAN Manager features?
Yes.
Does the LAN Manager use the Netbios interface?
Yes.
On what versions of MS-DOS does the MS OS/2 LAN Manager operate ?
The LAN Manager requires MS OS/2.
What sort of applications do you think will be developed using the
MS OS/2 LAN Manager?
The MS OS/2 LAN Manager features allow the development of truly
distributed network applications. This means that components of a
single application will be developed to run simultaneously in the
server and the workstation. For example, a database system could be
designed to allow the user to interact with the query processor in
the workstation, which in turn will send queries to the central
database application code running in the server. We think that this
will be an important and popular early use of OS/2.
------------------------------
From: qe0n Thu Apr 2 07:05:34 1987
Subject: MICROSOFT(R) MOUSE TO SUPPORT IBM PERSONAL SYSTEM/2
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:11:48 1987
MICROSOFT(R) MOUSE TO SUPPORT IBM PERSONAL SYSTEM/2
Redmond, WA -- APRIL 2, 1987 -- Microsoft Corporation announced
today that its top-selling Microsoft Mouse will support the IBM(R)
Personal System/2(TM) series.
The serial version of Microsoft's Mouse supports all of the IBM
Personal System/2 series. The bus version of the Microsoft Mouse
works with the IBM Personal Systems/2 Model 30. Also, as part of
Microsoft's ongoing relationship with IBM, Microsoft licensed its
mouse driver technology to IBM for use in the new IBM Personal
System/2 series. Microsoft developed a custom version of its
Microsoft Mouse driver that allows the large installed base of
software written to the Microsoft Mouse specification to run with the
new IBM proprietary mouse.
The new mouse device driver software supports CGA Superset
Graphics on the IBM Personal System/2 Model 30 and supports EGA
Superset Graphics on Model 50 and Model 60. It also supports all the
display modes available on the new hardware, including 640 x 480
resolution - 2 color, 640 x 480 resolution - 16 color, and 320 x 200
resolution - 256 color.
The graphics presentation software included with the Microsoft
Mouse, Microsoft Paintbrush(R) and ShowPartner(TM) Version 2.0, will
be modified to take advantage of the 256-color palette. The expert
menus for popular applications and computer-based training software
will also be included and will be available within 60 days.
------------------------------
From: qe0n Thu Apr 2 07:05:08 1987
Subject: MS OS/2(TM) LAN MANAGER, LOCAL AREA NETWORKING PRODUCT
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:11:41 1987
FOR RELEASE APRIL 2, 1987
MICROSOFT ANNOUNCES MS OS/2(TM) LAN MANAGER, AN ADVANCED LOCAL AREA NETWORKING
PRODUCT
Redmond, WA -- APRIL 2, 1987 -- Microsoft Corporation today
announced the Microsoft Operating System/2(TM) LAN Manager, an
advanced local area network program for Microsoft Operating System/2.
The MS OS/2 LAN Manager allows users to link personal computer
systems, running either MS OS/2 or MS-DOS(R) systems, together on a
single network. Systems running Microsoft(R) XENIX(R) and XENIX Net
may also be connected to the same network.
An MS OS/2-based system may act simultaneously as a workstation
and a server within such a network. MS-DOS systems running Microsoft
Networks can act either as a server or a workstation. XENIX-based
systems may act as both server and workstation simultaneously.
The MS OS/2 LAN Manager provides rich networking capabilities
including transparent file and print sharing, advanced user security
features, and powerful network administration tools. Because the MS
OS/2 Lan Manager is tightly integrated with the MS OS/2 Operating
System, MS OS/2 programming interfaces work transparently across the
network. The most powerful of these is an interface to write fully
distributed network applications. This interprocess communication
(IPC) capability will facilitate a new generation of applications
that can communicate directly with each other, even though they are
resident on different machines on the network.
"The MS OS/2 LAN Manager opens the door for a new generation of
truly distributed applications software," said Bill Gates, chairman
of Microsoft. "Application developers can now write a single version
of a software product which will be capable of running either on a
single machine, or distributed between machines connected by the MS
OS/2 LAN Manager."
The MS OS/2 LAN Manager is fully compatible with the existing
Microsoft Networks products for both the MS-DOS and XENIX operating
systems. This will allow new systems running MS OS/2 to be easily
integrated into existing networks with no disruption to the users of
the network.
Specifications of the MS OS/2 LAN Manager will initially be
provided as part of the MS OS/2 Software Development Kit. The MS OS/2
LAN Manager is scheduled for release to developers (as updates to the
MS OS/2 SDK) and OEM customers in the fourth quarter of 1987.
------------------------------
From: qe0n Thu Apr 2 07:04:47 1987
Subject: MS-DOS(R) VERSION 3.3 OFFERS IMPROVED FEATURES
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:11:34 1987
MS-DOS(R) VERSION 3.3 OFFERS IMPROVED FEATURES
Redmond, WA -- APRIL 2, 1987 -- Microsoft Corporation today
announced a new release of the MS-DOS operating system. MS-DOS
version 3.3 features improved utilization of hard-disk storage,
enhanced performance, and additional support for foreign language
character sets. Microsoft anticipates releases of MS-DOS version 3.3
by OEM customers during 1987.
"MS-DOS version 3.3 reaffirms Microsoft's commitment to its
current OEM customers and their end-users even as we announce our
next generation operating system, MS OS/2(TM)," said Microsoft
chairman Bill Gates. "With MS-DOS 3.3, users will obtain improved
performance from their existing applications. We have every intention
of continuing to support existing personal computer users with a
succession of enhancements and improvements to MS-DOS."
MS-DOS version 3.3, which is fully compatible with previous
versions of MS-DOS, provides better utilization of storage capacity
on hard-disk systems and faster I/O handling for better hard-disk
performance. New support for foreign languages includes the ability
of the system to switch dynamically between different character sets.
Version 3.3 is compatible with current versions of Microsoft(R)
Windows and Microsoft Networks, and is also compatible with Microsoft
Windows version 2.0, which was announced by Microsoft today.
------------------------------
From: qe0n Thu Apr 2 07:04:29 1987
Subject: Microsoft(R) MS-DOS(R) Version 3.3 Product Information
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:11:29 1987
Product Information
Microsoft(R) MS-DOS(R) Version 3.3
Introduction
Microsoft MS-DOS version 3.3 is the latest release of Microsoft's
single user operating system for IBM(R) Personal Computers and
compatible machines.
Product Features
MS-DOS version 3.3 is fully compatible with MS-DOS version 3.2
and, in this release, adds support for the following features:
- improved hard disk support allowing better utilization of
storage capacity
- improved disk handling providing better hard disk performance
- improved support for foreign language character sets
MS-DOS version 3.3 supports all IBM PC models and compatible
machines. MS-DOS version 3.3 will be offered to all current
Microsoft MS-DOS version 3.2 OEM customers.
Product Background
Originally released in August 1981 with the introduction of the
IBM PC, MS-DOS has become the standard operating system for IBM
Personal Computers and compatibles. MS-DOS is by far the most
widely-used operating system on the more than ten million IBM
personal computers and compatible systems that have been shipped
since the original introduction of the IBM PC.
MS-DOS is licensed and sold worldwide by all the leading
manufacturers of personal computers including IBM, DEC, Compaq, Wang,
Zenith, Tandy, Hewlett Packard, Olivetti, Siemens, NEC, Apricot, Bull
and Ericsson.
Product Q & A
Was MS-DOS version 3.3 developed under the Microsoft/IBM Joint
Development Agreement?
No.
When do you expect MS-DOS 3.3 to be released by other OEM
customers?
Microsoft is already working on versions of MS-DOS 3.3 with a
number of other OEM customers, but at this stage none of them have
announced a product release date. We anticipate releases of MS-DOS
version 3.3, by other customers, during 1987.
Is this a major new release of MS-DOS?
No. MS-DOS version 3.3 provides some new features and product
enhancements to the existing MS-DOS product, but cannot be regarded
as a major release of the product. Microsoft will continue to enhance
and improve the MS-DOS product in the future with a succession of
product releases.
When do you expect the next release of MS-DOS?
We have no announced plans for the next release of the product.
------------------------------
From: qe0n
Subject: SOFTWARE, MEDIA SUPPORT FOR IBM PERSONAL SYSTEM/2
Date: Wed Apr 01 21:11:26 1987
Redmond, WA -- APRIL 2, 1987 -- Microsoft Corporation announced
today that its MS-DOS products will be available on 3.5-inch
diskettes compatible with the advanced Personal System/2(TM)
computers unveiled by IBM(R).
Microsoft's business applications products will be shipped with
both the new 3.5-inch diskettes and the regular 5.25-inch diskettes,
providing the correct medium for all customers regardless of their
hardware configuration. These products include Microsoft(R) Word(R)
3.11, Microsoft Network Word 3.11, Microsoft Multiplan(R) 3.02,
Microsoft Project 3.01, and Microsoft Chart 2.03.
Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Learning DOS, Microsoft QuickBASIC,
and Microsoft Flight Simulator will be available in packages that are
clearly marked as containing either the 3.5-inch or the 5.25-inch
diskettes. The Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Learning DOS versions
with 3.5-inch diskettes will be available by the end of April and the
3.5-inch version of Microsoft QuickBASIC will be available with
version 3.0. Microsoft Flight Simulator for the IBM Personal System/2
will be available this summer. Other Microsoft languages, including
BASIC, FORTRAN, C, and Pascal, and the Microsoft Mouse will be
shipped on 5.25-inch diskettes as the standard media, and users can
request the 3.5-inch format by returning the coupon included in the
product.
Users who acquire packages with only 5.25-inch diskettes can
request a copy on 3.5-inch diskettes directly from Microsoft by call
800/426-9400 (in Washington state and Alaska, call 206/882-8088).
There is no fee for the replacement.
In addition to the availability of applications and language
product support for the IBM Personal System/2 series, Microsoft will
be developing new products to take full advantage of the capabilities
of these new systems. "We are very excited about the possibilities of
the new IBM systems for applications software," said Raikes. "The
graphics capabilities are superb. Microsoft is committed to
exploiting the power of the graphics and the graphical user
interface, and we are developing powerful new applications products
that will take full advantage of these capabilities."
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ "MSFT") develops, markets, and
supports a wide range of software for business and professional use,
including operating systems, languages and application programs as
well as books and hardware for the microcomputer marketplace.
For more information contact:
MICROSOFT CORPORATION
Marty Taucher/Kathryn Hinsch
(206) 882-8080
THE WAGGENER GROUP
Pam Edstrom/Collins Hemingway
(503) 245-0905
Microsoft, Microsoft Operating System/2, MS OS/2MS-DOS, the
Microsoft logo, Word, Xenix, CodeView, and Multiplan are registered
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
IBM, PC AT, and Personal System/2 are registered trademarks of
International Business Machines Corporation.
UNIX is a registered trademark of AT&T.
Intel is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation.
Above is a trademark of Intel Corporation.
AST is a registered trademark of AST Corporation.
RAMpage! is a trademark of AST Corporation.
COMPAQ is a registered trademark of Compaq Computer Corporation.
Zenith is a registered trademark of Zenith Radio Corporation.
ShowPartner is a trademark of ZSoft Corporation.
Paintbrush is a registered trademark of Zsoft Corporation.
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------