Weefus@UMass.BITNET (BECCO) (05/19/86)
** Information File on Philon/Fast Basic-M compiler (V1.3) **
I have just purchased the above named compiler, and after looking over
the documentation, I think those (few?) of you who program in Basic like
myself would be interested in some information about the package.
First of all, be aware that this compiler requires either two disk drives
or (preferably) a hard disk. The reason for this is that the system comes on
five (!) disks, four of which must be switched into-and-out-of the 'B' drive
during the compilation process.
I can't give a review of the software proper, as I do not yet have the
necessary second disk drive yet. (Donations, please? ;-) )
The biggest complaint I have is that the licensing agreement that comes
with the package is incredibly restrictive. Unlike the Good Folks at OSS, who
make the Personal Pascal package for the ST, Philon does not let you sell
license, or give away any program that has their runtime library included.
Obviously, this would be defined as any program compiled with the package.
I find this unacceptable, especially considering this is *Basic*.
I also got a chuckle from one paticular line in the license agreement:
"Customer agrees to take reasonable steps to protect the Philon Software
from theft or use contrary to this license." Guess I gotta buy a safe now!
Comments folks?
Keith Rolland Weefus%umass.bitnet@wiscvm.arpa
Weefus on GEnie
75056,3447 on CI$
"Money changes everything!" .. Lauper
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