djo7613@blake.acs.washington.edu (Dick O'Connor) (03/13/90)
Here's a summary of the new features/improvements of PC Tools,
Version 6. Suggested retail price is $149, registered owners
of current version can upgrade for $30 plus shipping. I have not
yet received an upgrade notice in the mail, though I imagine it's
in the works.
DATA RECOVERY: DiskFix, a disk/file diagnostic and recovery utility has
been added, with the ability to repair cross-linked files, FAT errors,
bad boot sectors, etc.
HARD DISK BACKUP: Support has been added for QIC 40/80 and Irwin style
tape backup units. Systems from IBM, Compaq, Irwin, Archive, Mountain
and Colorado Memory are recognized. Up to 250 MB/cartridge can be
stored. Appended Backup can now add new files to the last
diskette/tape used, reducing media usage.
DOS SHELL: The DOS command line is now directly accessible. Over 20
new file viewers have been added. An integrated version of Laplink
from Traveling Software has been added to allow PC Shell-style control
and file transfer to a connected portable computer.
DESKTOP MANAGER: Intel, Spectra, and CAS-compatible fax boards are now
directly supported. Any networked PC can access a workstation's fax
board for sending/receiving. Improved support for MCI and Easlylink
have been added to the Telecommunicaitons module as well.
MISCELLANEOUS: Beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels of the PC
Shell and PC Backup interface are now available, with password security
allowing system managers to restrict users to a particular level, if
desired. More short cut keys have been added, and function keys can be
programmed, if desired. Write caching has been added to PC Cache.
I agree with Tom Almy's comment about the new packaging; it looks like
a continuation of the "corporate-ization" of PC Tools. I figure it's
worth the upgrade price to me to try out some of the new stuff.
Any further words from other beta-version testers?
"Moby" Dick O'Connor ** The only difference between
Washington Department of Fisheries ** a lazy man on a riverbank
Olympia, Washington 98504 ** and a fisherman is a pole
Internet Mail: djo7613@blake.u.washington.edu ** and a length of string.