macmillm@ewc.bitnet (07/24/89)
Here's the latest from the Suitable Solutions folks:
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Announcing: MS-DOS v3.10b for the DEC Rainbow
MS-DOS v3.10b is a major breakthrough in IBM-compatibility for the
Rainbow. With this operating system upgrade and our enhancement
patches to Code Blue v2.01, Rainbows can now run almost all IBM
BIOS-compatible software that can be run on a monochrome system.
This means such programs as dBASE IV, Q&A, TurboTax, CodeView,
QuickC, QuickBASIC, and many, many more that would not run under
previous versions of MS-DOS and Code Blue, now boot right up!
Note that the hardware compatibility restrictions still apply:
you won't be able to run IBM-compatible software that uses
bit-mapped graphics or communications. We've also discovered that
with some programs (QuickBASIC and QuickC in particular), 100A
Rainbows function slightly differently from 100B Rainbows and may
encounter more problems. We're in the process of compiling a list
of all software tested with the new version, and will publish that
information when it's available. However, we feel confident in
restating the fundamental, exciting new premise:
Software that is BIOS-compatible with an IBM PC and runs on a
monochrome (non-graphics) system should now be able to run on
a Rainbow!
The complete kit for MS-DOS v3.10b is now shipping at a price of
$125. Those who have purchased MS-DOS v3.10 or v3.10a from
Suitable Solutions can get an upgrade for $50, with your serial
number. Those who purchased update contracts will receive their
upgrade in the next few weeks free of charge.
Along with the software changes to MS-DOS and Code Blue, Suitable
Solutions has also developed a new IBM Character Generator ROM
chip. This ROM replaces the Rainbow character ROM and gives you
access to both the Rainbow and the IBM character graphics set for
text-based applications running in either Rainbow native or
IBM/Code Blue mode. The IBM Character Generator ROM chip is an
option, and is not required in order to take advantage of the
increased IBM-compatibility under MS-DOS v3.10b. If you think
your applications would benefit from having the IBM character set
available, order our CGROM for $25.
Please note: MS-DOS v3.10b contains many significant changes that
will improve the Rainbow's IBM compatibility all by themselves.
However, to really see the benefit of these changes, you will also
need to upgrade Code Blue with the patches we provide along with
MS-DOS v3.10b. The Code Blue upgrade can only be made to version
2.01 (current shipping version) of Code Blue. If you have an
earlier version of Code Blue, contact Intersecting Concepts at
(805) 373-3900; they will update you for a nominal fee.
Also note: The IBM Character Generator ROM cannot be used in the
same system as the Rainbow Technical Character ROM. Also, the IBM
smiley-face and playing card symbols have not been implemented in
the new ROM.
For more information, or to place an order, call Suitable
Solutions at (408) 727- 9090, or send a FAX to (408) 727-0823, or
contact us via EasyPlex at User ID# 76666,3003.
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Michael E. Macmillan
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