cheeser@dasys1.UUCP (Les Kay) (09/29/87)
It seems that the first group of postings went out in the wrong format...I've
recieved dozens of letters asking for an update...so here are parts one and
two (combined into one rather large message).
After this one the tidbits that will come on the net will be MUCH smaller!!!
TECH TIDBITS
SPECIAL ON-LINE SERVICES EDITION U
March through August, 1987 Macintosh - Volume I
MACINTOSH FAMILY
Mad 512KE and MacPlus to LaserWriter
==================================
Q: I have a 512Ke and Macintosh Plus that I want to connect to a LaserWriter
Plus. What cables do I need?
A: Apple has two types of AppleTalk connectors. The AppleTalk Connector Kit,
P/N M2010, and the AppleTalk System Connector Kit, P/N M2052. The M2010 has a
9 pin connector and is used on the 512K, 512Ke, LaserWriter, and LaserWriter
Plus. The M2052 has an 8 pin, mini-circular, connector and is used with the
Macintosh Plus, Apple IIgs, Macintosh II, and ImageWriter II with an AppleTalk
Option Card.
Reverse Mac Screen for Legally Blind
====================================
Q: A customer who is legally blind wants to know if a Macintosh screen can be
reversed by having a white text on a black background. This would seem to
require a hardware modification. The control panel does only the desktop and
does not affect any application. Is there a way to do it? Would it be
passible for the dealer to do the modification?
A: According to Alan Brightman of University Marketing at Apple, there is
a software program on the market designed specifically for the visually
impaired. This package is called "InLarge" and it is marketed by Berkeley
System Design, 1708 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94709. The phone number is
415-540-5537.
Addendum: In response to last week's article concerning inverse Macintosh
text, Ken Landau has provided us with a Public Domain Program written by Darin
Adler. Thanks Ken, for taking time from your busy schedule to provide us with
this useful application. This PD Program has been uploaded to the User's
Group Bulletin Board on AppleLink and is available for download.
Kanji - ROM or Software?
========================
Q. A customer is interested in obtaining a Mac with Kanji. Is Kanji a ROM or
software package?
A. The Kanji system does not need special ROMs to run. It will run on a Mac
Plus or above with software alone. In Japan the Kanji Mac does have a
different set of ROMs but the only difference between the Kanji ROMs and
regular Mac Plus ROMs is that the necessary fonts are in ROM for the Japanese
machines. If the software does not find the fonts in ROM it loads them from
the disk into memory. The Kanji ROMs are not available outside Japan.
MacPlus and MacSE on a Network
==============================
Q: I have a network that consists of a Macintosh Plus and a Macintosh SE.
Which System Software version should I use?
A: When a network includes a Macintosh SE, you should use the latest System
Software on all CPUs on the Network.
MacintoshSE "Feature"
=====================
There is a known "feature" (read BUG) with the Macintosh SE, dual floppy
model, and the "StartUp Device" control panel option. If you select the
StartUp Device when no hard disk is attached, you will receive an ID=02 or
ID=10 bomb when you choose a second control panel option. Until the System
software is updated, remove the StartUp Device Icon from your system folder on
all dual floppy SEs that do not have a hard disk attached,
Greek Font for the Mac
======================
Q: My customer requires a Greek language font for use in publishing a Greek
newspaper. Do you know if anyone offers such a font?
A: There are several sources for Greek and other foreign language fonts. Three
are listed below:
Company Product Phone
-------------------------- -------------------- ----------------------
Linguists' Software Super Greek (617) 468-3037
SMK SMK Greek Keys (312) 947-9157
Altsys Corporation Fontastic Fonts (214) 424-4888
MicroSoft Works Tip
===================
There is no provision in the database for setting standard values or an easy
way to populate a category with duplicate information. One work-around is to
create the data in a spreadsheet, then cut and paste it into your database.
Macintosh SE Technical Trivia
=============================
For a real treat, press the interrupt button (Not the reset button) on the SE.
>From the Debugger prompt type "G 41D89A" and then press return. (There's a
SPACE between the G and the 4).
DISK DRIVES
A New Slant on the HD20
=======================
Q: Will operating the HD20 on a slanted surface have any adverse effects on
the unit or its functioning?
A: In current hard drive technology, the read/write heads actually float on a
cushion of air. Theoretically, you should be able to operate the unit in any
position. However, we do not recommend running any hard disk on an inclined
surface for any length of time. Apple hard disk units have four feet on the
bottom and assume a "level" surface.
PRINTERS
Choose DRAFT to Print in Near Letter Quality Mode!
==================================================
Q: Is there a way to access the built-in Near Letter Quality font of the
ImageWriter // from the Macintosh?
A: Yes, you set the front panel switch to NLQ mode, both lights on, and then
indicate that you want to print in DRAFT from the Print Dialog Box.
Has Bi-Directional Printing Disappeared?
========================================
Q: Why does "Faster" mode no longer print bi-directionally on an ImageWriter
II?
A: This is a function of the new ImageWriter II print driver. Uni-directional
passes of the printhead line up much more accurately than bi-directional
passes. This provides much more precise printouts.
ImageWriter II Trivia
=====================
Q: What is the loudest sound level that the ImageWriter II can produce?
A: The ImageWriter II will produce a maximum sound level of 55db.
WYS Is Not WYG
==============
Q: We can't obtain a full line across the page in a header for MacWrite when
printing to a LaserWriter or LaserWriter Plus. The same line extends all the
way across when printed on an ImageWriter. What's the problem?
A: Characters on a Macintosh screen, especially the space bar, display
differently when printed on a LaserWriter. Use a mono-spaced font to obtain
properly spaced printing in this situation. Open a new header, select
"Courier" as the font. Choose "underline" in the style menu, press and hold
the space bar. After a few spaces have been typed, you should see the line
start to move across the page. When the line nears the right side, release
the space bar, then add individual keypresses until the underline touches the
right margin. This line should now print properly on both the LaserWriter and
ImageWriter.
Mac to ImageWriter II and 32K Buffer
====================================
Q: I need information regarding the 32K buffer for the ImageWriter II. Is the
32K buffer supported by most Mac software?
A: You won't realize a significant increase in productivity using the 32K
Buffer in conjunction with a Macintosh and standard printing functions. Fonts
and graphics consume large quantities of RAM and 32K is not sufficient for
most Macintosh print activities. The most effective way to take advantage of
the buffer is to set the front panel switches to Near Letter Quality and
select "Draft" from the print dialog box.
RESOURCES
User Group and Dealer Information
=================================
The Apple 800-number to help Apple owners locate User Groups of Apple
Authorized Dealers in their area is 800-538-9696, Ext. 500. The operator will
ask for your zip code and will give you address and phone number of nearest
User Groups or Dealers in your geographic vicinity.
APPLETALK
APPLETALK
---------
Q: Are the AppleTalk cables insulated with teflon? I know that the custom
wiring kits are teflon, but I can't find any information concerning the
covering of the "regular" cable kit, M2010.
A: According to the "AppleTalk Personal Network" that comes with each
connector kit, the 2 and 10 meter cables are PVC coated and are not Teflon. If
you need to route these cables through walls or the ceiling, it is necessary
to route them through metal conduit.
AppleTalk Configuration
-----------------------
Q: Is it possible to purchase the assembly plugs for the Appletalk network.
We need more for a project than are provided in the custom wiring kit. If
they are available separately, what is their product number for ordering and
cost?
A: AESP has a complete line of AppleLink compatible connectors and cables.
They can be reach at:
Advanced Electronic Support Products
1680 N.E. 205th Terrace
North Miami Beach, FL 33179
Orders: 1-800-235-1337 Information: 305-653-1337
Reliable Connections!
=====================
Kensington Microware markets inexpensive "clips" that provide significant
reliability improvement over standard AppleTalk connections. For more
information contact: Kensington Microware at (212)475-5200.
Feature Article
MacPaint Hints & Tips
Hold down the OPTION key to: draw lines with selected pattern, duplicate
objects (select object with the Selection Rectangle or Lasso tools and drag
while holding down the Option key), turn the pencil tool into a "grabber."
To erase large areas, select the full page view and move the area to be
erased off the page (a rectangular area can be chopped very rapidly by
repeating this procedure at two opposite corners of the page).
You can erase smaller areas by selecting with either the Selection Rectangle
or Lasso tools and then pressing the Backspace key.
Using the Shift key with the pencil tool while in FatBits allows you to draw
straight lines, both vertically and horizontally.
When you have the pencil tool selected, you can get into FatBits quickly by
pressing the Command key and clicking in the spot where you want FatBits to
display.
You can use "transparent" paint with MacPaint. Hold down the Command key
while using the Paint Brush, Spray Can, or Paint Bucket tools.
Holding down the Command and Option keys while dragging an object creates
some interesting results.
Double-Clicking on the Hand Icon will display the full page.
Double-Clicking on the Selection Rectangle tool will select the entire
drawing window.
Double-Clicking on the Erasure tool will erase the drawing window.
You can reduce or enlarge and object by copying it to the clipboard and then
pasting it back into an appropriately sized area indicated with the Selection
Rectangle Tool.
Use the ~ key in the upper left hand corner of the keyboard as an "Un-do"
key. It works the same as the Menu Item.
Feature Article
Mac Write Hints
Delete text quickly by holding down the OPTION key while selecting it.
MacPaint pictures that have been imported into MacWrite print better if TALL
ADJUSTED is selected from the PAGE SETUP menu.
The font style of the page number, date, and or time in the header is that
of the first character of the header (even if a blank space); same for the
footer.
OPTION-SPACE produces an invisible "bond" between words that prevent
their being separated at page breaks.
To return to the cursor after scrolling, press the Enter Key, Caution: if
text is selected this will erase it.
To avoid repetitive typing of a word or phrase, substitute a series of
letters that are easy to type but that do not normally occur such as XZX,
ASD, QWE, or QAZ then use SEARCH and CHANGE to substitute the correct word or
phrase.
To use special characters such as "", use the Key Caps Desk Accessory to
determine the Option-Key sequence for the character that you want, press that
sequence and then type the letter that you want under the accent. For
example, for the tilde over the n, press Option-n (nothing shows on the
screen) and then press the n. You should now have "". This works in almost all
applications, even AppleLink.
To select large areas of a document, click at the beginning point, use the
scroll box to find the end of the selection, hold down the Shift key and click
again. This will select the whole area.
Unable to create a new document? MacWrite 4.5 needs at least 11K available on
the application disk to create a new document.
Text and graphics can't be placed side by side in MacWrite. You can paste
graphics into the Header and then place the header variables, page number,
time and date, on top of the graphics.
MacWrite & LaserPrinting: When using full justification, if the last
character on a line is cut off, make sure that you have the respective Font
installed as a screen font. You can quickly tell the difference from the Font
Menu. If the Font size is displayed as "hollow" it has been installed as a
screen font. If it's solid black, it has not. Use the Font/DA Mover version
3.2 or higher to install the font into your System file.
You can quickly adjust Tab stops without having to wait after each addition
or deletion by inserting a Ruler just above the current Ruler. Make the
necessary corrections and then delete the original Ruler.
Copyright, August 14,1987 Apple Computer, Inc., East Coast Technical Support.
Permission is hereby granted for the use of Tech Tidbits, in part or in whole,
in any non-commercial publication, or for use by any non-commercial group or
organization or Apple User Group with the following credit: Reprinted from
"Tech Tidbits" with the permission of Apple Computer, Inc., East Coast
Technical Support." Permission to use "Tech Tidbits", in part or in whole,
for
commercial use must first be obtained in writing.
Sue Goodin, Editor-In-Chief.
AppleLink Address: Goodin2
Distributed to usenet by cheeser@dasys1.UUCP
******************************************************************************
TECH TIDBITS
SPECIAL ON-LINE SERVICES EDITION U
March through August, 1987 Macintosh - Volume II
MACINTOSH FAMILY
MacII and NEC Multisync Monitor
===============================
FYI: Apple's Macintosh II Video Card (M0211) is capable of driving the NEC
Multisync monitor. The Multisync uses a 9-pin connector, so you will need to
construct a cable as follows:
Macintosh II NEC Signal Name
------------ --- -----------
1 ------------- 6,7,8,9 Ground
2 ------------- 1 Red
5 ------------- 2 Green (sync)
9 ------------- 3 Blue
Set the monitor to Analog & Manual mode. (Thanks to Cameron Birse for the
above information).
MacintoshSE and Parameter RAM
=============================
Q: How do I reset Parameter RAM in a Macintosh SE?
A: To zero Parameter RAM in the Macintosh SE, hold down the Shift, Option, and
Control keys while selecting the Control Panel. A dialog box will be displayed
asking if you want to zero Parameter RAM. Indicate Yes, and Restart the SE.
Parameter RAM will be zero-ed. It is necessary to Restart the SE using known
good System Software after this procedure.
FYI: The access speed for all SCSI drives connected to the Macintosh SE,
internal or external, is 660 Kb/Sec.
Macintosh SE Installer Program
==============================
FYI: We have noticed a "feature" when you select any of the Installer Scripts
on the new SE System Tools disk. All of the Scripts seem to automatically
update your printer drivers at the same time they update your System files.
Even if you didn't intend on updating the print drivers. Just another time
saver from Apple's software wizards. Another note, the Installer will not
transfer the drivers to the target disk if they are not present at the time of
the update.
Macintosh SE & AppleLink
========================
AppleLink 4.0 must be updated to work properly with the SE or Macintosh II.
The more adventurous AppleLink junkie can find this elusive patch in the
Headlines & Guide ICON, open the AppleLink Helpline folder and then the
AppleLink: Helpful Hints and Software Updates. The patch is appropriately
named "New Products Patch" and requires approximately one minute to download.
Mac System Version Identification
=================================
Q: Is there a way to positively identify Macintosh System Versions?
A: One SURE way to ID a System Version is to use ResEdit:
1. Start ResEdit.
2. Open the System file.
3. Open the item STRs from System.
4. Open STR ID=0.
STR ID=0 will contain the System Version number.
Using the Creation Date from the "Get Info" Dialog Box, is not a reliable way
to identify the System Version. Since the Creation Date is not changed when
updated with an Installer program, you cannot be sure that the System has not
been updated.
Macintosh II & Guided Tour
==========================
If you experience an error message that indicates you need more memory to run
the Guided Tour, ensure that your RAM CACHE is turned off. Check the Control
Panel and make sure that you are set to either two or four Bits/Pixel. A
sixteen Bits/Pixel setting will cause the error also.
Macintosh SE & Mentauris Connection
===================================
The Mentauris video adaptor for the Macintosh Plus can be modified to operate
on the Macintosh SE by cutting off the current piggyback connector and wiring
into the new video harness. A piggyback connector for the new harness is not
currently available.
current Mentauris connector SE video harness connector
PIN # PIN #
1 ----------------------------------------- 9
3 ----------------------------------------- 10
5 ----------------------------------------- 11
7 ----------------------------------------- 8
10 ----------------------------------------- 14
This will leave the BNC connector which can be fished through the expansion
slot on the back case attached to the wiring harness. As an option (which
worked well for me), place a pair of DB9 connectors in the Mentauris cable so
that the BNC portion can be disconnected and even moved to other units.
Our thanks to Ted Blank for the above information.
Inside InBox
=============
Think Technologies reports that version 2.0 of InBox may cause "problems"
with applications that are running when InBox "visually" informs you that a
message has arrived. To avoid potential problems, set your options so that you
are "Audibly" and/or "Repeatedly" reminded. These options work correctly and
pose no danger.
MacTerminal - Give Me a Break!
==============================
Q: Typing the Option-Return to send a break, using MacTerminal does not
generate a sufficiently long break to be recognized. What can we do?
A: Shift-Return on MacTerminal 2.1 will produce a long break.
Macintosh Print Drivers
=======================
Q: Where can I find printer drivers for third-party printers?
A: There are several sources for third-party printer solutions for the
Macintosh. You will find two sources listed below. Be sure to check the
current issue of the Macintosh Buyer's Guide for additional information.
GDT Softworks, Inc. SoftStyle, Inc.
2800 Douglas Road 7192 Kalanianaole Highway
Suite D Suite. 205
Burnaby, B.C. Canada Y5C 5BY Honolulu, Hawaii 96825
(800) 663-MACC (800) 367-5600
DISK DRIVES
Hard Drive Optimization
=======================
Q: Is there any way to optimize an Apple SCSI hard disk? By optimize I
mean to clean up empty spaces on the hard disk that are presently not
being used.
A: Fragmentation occurs on any hard drive, it's the result of adding and
deleting files. One effective way to "optimize" is to backup the drive,
reformat, and then restore your data. The quickest method of accomplishing
this is to use a Tape Backup or another hard drive.
PRINTERS
LaserWriter Abroad
==================
Q: I understand that the LaserWriter is not a frequency independent device.
However, there is a need for a power supply for the LaserWriter that will
allow
it to be operated at both 220V/50Hz and 110V/60 Hz. Can you recommend a
solution?
A: Because several components (fan, main drive motor, power supply, etc.) need
to be changed to allow conversion from 50 Hz to 60 Hz operation, this cannot
be
done with a single product. There is no way to have a universal LaserWriter at
the present time.
LaserWriter Page Counter Setting
================================
A brand new, "out of the box" LaserWriter can have readings ranging from 28
pages up to as high as 200 pages, depending on the number of hours of testing
time and the number of pages per hour during testing.
Toner Shelf Life
================
Q: Is there a maximum shelf life for the toner cartridges for the
LaserWriter? Our customer would like to have an extra on hand, but may not
use it for 6 months to a year.
A: The shelf life of the toner cartridge is 2.5 years from production date.
The production date is stamped on the toner cartridge in the form of 3 or 4
letters and numbers. To decode the production date, please refer to the file
on AppleLink "LaserWriter: Shelf Life of Toner Cartridge" under the Technical
Info Icon using the search words "Toner and Shelf Life."
LaserWriter & Color
===================
We have received several requests for LaserWriter Cartridges in alternate
colors. Listed below are several vendors who advertise various solutions.
Michlin Computer Consultants (313) 663-9800
Laser Express(tm) Inc. (800) 553-8111
Toner Technologies (801) 544-3090
ImageWriter I DIP Swtich Settings
=================================
Q: I have a customer who has an ImageWriter I. At one time she set the DIP
switches to print in condensed mode. Recently she changed the switches to
print in PICA mode and does not remember how to change back to condensed.
Using software, the printer will print in condensed mode. Please advise.
A: Below are the possible character pitches available through DIP Switch
settings on the ImageWriter I, as found on Page 41 of the Owner's guide.
Switch 1-6 Switch 1-7 Character Pitch
---------- ---------- ---------------
Open Open Pica (10 characters per inch)
CLOSED OPEN Elite (12 characters per inch)
Open Closed UltraCondensed (17 characters per inch)
Closed Closed Elite Proportional
If after setting the DIP switches properly, you still cannot print in
condensed mode, you may have a defective DIP switch and should take your
printer in for repair.
APPLETALK
AppleTalk Distances
===================
Q: What is the maximum distance possible between a Macintosh and LaserWriter
hooked up via AppleTalk?
A: The determining factor in this is not distance between Mac and
LaserWriter, but rather the maximum network cable length under AppleTalk. Page
15 of the AppleTalk Personal Network manual states that the maximum network
cable length is 300 meters, or about 1000 feet. This, is the maximum distance
between a Macintosh and a LaserWriter.
PROGRAMMING AND DEVELOPMENT
MPW - Is it Soup Yet?
=====================
Q: Is the Macintosh Programmer's Workshop (MPW) completed yet? How do I obtain
a copy?
Q: The IIgs manual refers to the IIgs Programmer's Workshop (APW). When will
it be available?
A: MPW and APW are currently available and shipping. Contact the Apple
Programmer's and Developer's Association (APDA) for ordering information. You
can contact APDA at (206) 251-6548. Additional APDA information can be found
in the 3rd Party Programs Icon on AppleLink. APDA is the source for ALL Apple
Developmental information and programs.
PostScript Programming Questions
================================
Q: Where can I obtain information on PostScript Programming?
A: Check in your local bookstore for these two books: "PostScript Language
Reference Manual" and "PostScript Language: Tutorial and Cookbook" published
by Addison-Wesley Publishing.
RESOURCES
Sun Data
--------
Sun Data, that venerable supplier of unique, antique, and/or "orphaned"
product support, has a new phone number: (800) 821-3221.
Product Compatibility Questions
-------------------------------
Q: Where can I find information on product compatibility, hardware/software,
for Apple systems?
A: You will find this information on AppleLink under the 3rd Party Programs
icon in a file entitled "Product Compatibility." Another file that may be of
interest is "New Apple IIgs Third Party Products."
Does Such a Product Exist?
--------------------------
Several excellent resources that are often overlooked when searching for a
product that performs a specific task (whether it be software that will let
you print a spreadsheet sideways, a utility program that will let you
integrate a spreadsheet into a desktop publishing application, or a special
interface card) are the various On-Line Information Systems such as
CompuServe, Delphi, GEnie, The Source, etc.
Most of these services have Apple forums and data libraries where this type of
information is plentiful, as well as many eager users who are happy to share
information about the products that they have seen, heard about, or use.
Other excellent sources for this type of information are the Apple specific
computer magazines such as A+, The Macintosh Buyer's Guide, Nibble, NibbleMac,
MacWorld, MacUser, etc. These magazines all contain useful information in the
form of advertisements, product announcements and product reviews that are
very informative. Don't overlook them!
GOOD NEWS DEPARTMENT
Good News Department
--------------------
Overheard in a recent Macintosh II Seminar: "Apple's parts policies are the
best in the Industry. None of our other Vendors can supply parts as fast as
Apple!"
Copyright, August 14,1987 Apple Computer, Inc., East Coast Technical Support.
Permission is hereby granted for the use of Tech Tidbits, in part or in whole,
in any non-commercial publication, or for use by any non-commercial group or
organization or Apple User Group with the following credit: Reprinted from
"Tech Tidbits" with the permission of Apple Computer, Inc., East Coast
Technical Support." Permission to use "Tech Tidbits", in part or in whole,
for
commercial use must first be obtained in writing.
Sue Goodin, Editor-In-Chief.
AppleLink Address: Goodin2
Distributed usenet bye cheeser@dasys1.UUCP
******************************************************************************
--
===============================================================================
Jonathan Bing, Master (cheeser) ...ihnp4!hoptoad!dasys1!cheeser
Time flys like an Arrow, Fruit Flies like Bananas!
===============================================================================