xug@lta.com (X User's Group) (01/01/91)
[Last changed: 31 Dec 90]
This article contains the second of three parts of a set of answers to some
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) often seen in comp.windows.x.
It is posted to help reduce volume in this newsgroup and to provide
hard-to-find information of general interest.
Please redistribute this article!
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Subject: 25) What is the xstuff mail-archive?
The xstuff server is a mail-response program. That means that you mail
it a request, and it mails back the response.
Any of the four possible commands must be the first word on a line. The
xstuff server reads your entire message before it does anything, so you can
have several different commands in a single message (unless you ask for help).
The xstuff server treats the "Subject:" header line just like any other line
of the message.
The archives are organized into a series of directories and
subdirectories. Each directory has an index, and each subdirectory has an
index. The top-level index gives you an overview of what is in the
subdirectories, and the index for each subdirectory tells you what is in it.
1) The command "help" or "send help" causes the server to send you a
more detailed version of this help file.
2) if your message contains a line whose first word is "index", then
the server will send you the top-level index of the contents of the archive. If
there are other words on that line that match the name of subdirectories, then
the indexes for those subdirectories are sent instead of the top-level index.
For example, you can say "send index fixes" (or "index fixes"). A message that
requests an index cannot request data.
3) if your message contains a line whose first word is "send", then the
xstuff server will send you the item(s) named on the rest of the line. To name
an item, you give its directory and its name. For example
send fixes 1 3 4
You may issue multiple send requests. The xstuff server contains many
safeguards to ensure that it is not monopolized by people asking for large
amounts of data. The mailer is set up so that it will send no more than a fixed
amount of data each day. If the work queue contains more requests than the
day's quota, then the unsent files will not be processed until the next day.
Whenever the mailer is run to send its day's quota, it sends the requests out
shortest-first.
4) Some mailers produce mail headers that are unusable for extracting
return addresses. If you use such a mailer, you won't get any response. If
you happen to know an explicit path, you can include a line like
path foo%bar.bitnet@mitvma.mit.edu
or
path bar!foo!frotz
in the body of your message, and the daemon will use it.
The xstuff server itself can be reached at xstuff@expo.lcs.mit.edu. If
your mailer deals in "!" notation, try sending to
{someplace}!mit-eddie!expo.lcs.mit.edu!xstuff.
[based on information from the MIT X Consortium, 8/89, 4/90.]
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Subject: 26)* What is the current state of the world in X terminals?
Here is a selection of vendors with "impressions of consensus opinions".
AT&T's (800-247-1212; ask for local dealer) 730X has a 1Kx1K monochrome
(amber or white) display with a 1:1 aspect ratio. The terminal supports
multiple Telnet sessions and AT&T windowing in addition to X. The 730 supports
ISO or TCP/IP over twisted pair. "Very, very nice."
DEC (800-343-4040) offers the VT1200, a home-brew 15" 1024x864
monochrome terminal using the TI 34010; this replaces the VT1200. In addition,
DEC offers a VT1300, the Vax-in-a-box.
Gipsi S.A. (+33 (1) 30.60.75.00 or Jeff Abramatic at jfa@gipsi.fr) in
10/89 announced "le tX", a line of 68030-based X terminals running X11R3.
High-end models, at least, feature downloadable X servers.
Model Memory Resolution Display Refresh (Hz) Price (FF)
M 2 MB 1280x960x1 19" B&W 66 32 400
Me 2 MB 1280x960x2 19" Greyscale 66 38 000
C4 2 MB 1280x768x4 16" Colour 60 59 900
C8 4 MB 1280x1024x8 19" Colour 60 79 400
Expansion is up to 8MB and 8 planes.
The exclusive US distributor is Peripheral Design, Inc (404-263-0067).
"Looks fairly nice; shouldn't be overlooked."
GraphOn (800-472-7466) OptimaX 200 runs a server on the host which
translates from X protocol to a proprietary protocol which can run over a
serial line. The screen is 14". The terminal is based on a 12MHz 68000. (See
the December 1989 issue of XNextEvent for an informal review.) "Best available
solution for RS232C lines."
Hewlett-Packard (800-752-0900; ask for local sales office) offers the
700/X family of grayscale and color X-terminals. All models are designed with a
dual processor architecture, thin and thick Ethernet, a serial port, and
support for over 20 different local language keyboards (PS/2-style and HP-HIL
available). HP X-terminals can be upgraded to an HP 9000 workstation.
Models Display Resolution Planes Processor Coprocessor Memory
------ ------- ---------- ------ --------- ----------- ------
700/X Grayscale 19" 1024x768 8 34010/60MHz 80186/16MHz 1-9 MB
700/X VGA Color 14" 640x480 8 34010/60MHz 80186/16MHz 1-9 MB
700/X Hi-Res Color 16" 1024x768 8 34010/60MHz 80186/16MHz 1-9 MB
NOTE: All 700/X models offer virtual panning to 1024 x 1024 pixel resolution,
and support a wide variety of other display types and sizes. [8/90]
Human Design Systems (800-437-1551) offers several models of the
HDS ViewStation Plus series, based on an Intel 80186 and a TI 34010. Base
configuration is 1.75MB expandable to 9MB. [12/90]
Product Resolution Planes
------- ---------- -----------
v14 640x480 pixels 4 gray shades
v16 1024x1024 pixels 4, 16, or 256 gray shades
v191 1024x864 pixels monochrome
v19 1280x1024 pixels 4, 16, or 256 gray shades
v14c 640x480 pixels 16 colors
v15c 1024x768 pixels 16 colors
v16c 1024x800 pixels 256 colors
v17c 1280x1024 pixels 256 colors
v21c 1280x1024 pixels 256 colors
IBM's Xstation 120 starts with 512KB of memory and features support
for simultaneous Token-Ring and Ethernet connections. [2/90] AGE (619-565-7373)
has software that allows it to work with Suns, RTs, and DECstations as well as
the IBM Powerstation machines.
Jupiter Systems (415-523-9000, 508-836-4400) produces the Model 310
which features a 19-inch 1280x1024 color monitor. "A price leader, but also a
performance leader." The Model 410 has a 19", 1280x1024 monitor and offers
a large palette and high memory expansion. [5/90]
Labtam Information Systems (Australia +61 3 587 1444) has just
introduced [7/90] an Intel 80960-based 20MHz mono or 8-bit color X terminal.
Micronics (415-651-2300) offers the MaxTerm, based on a 25MHz 80386 and
featuring a 19", 1280x1024 screen. The MaxTerm offers virtual memory. [5/90]
Network Computing Devices (415-694-0650 or support@ncd.com) offers
monochrome and color X-terminals. All units are designed with no fan, 70 Hz
refresh, thick & thin Ethernet, a serial port, an opto-mechanical mouse and a
choice of keyboards (including PS/2-style, DEC LK-201 style, and compact
UNIX-style). NCDware features full X11R4 support. [Doug Klein, klein@ncd.com,
7/90.]
Product Display Resolution Planes Processor Graphics Memory
------- ---------- ----------- ------- -------------- -------- ----------
NCD16 16" Square 1024 x 1024 Mono 68000 12.5 MHz ASIC 1.5-4.5 MB
NCD19b 19" 1024 x 800 Mono 68000 16 MHz ASIC 2-5 MB
NCD16e 16" Square 1024 x 1024 Mono 68020 15 MHz 2-8 MB
NCD19 19" 1280 x 1024 Mono 68020 15 MHz 2-8 MB
NCD17c 17" 1024 x 768 8 Color 68020 20 MHz 2 ASICs 2-8 MB
NCR (513-445-2033) offers the Towerview with 1024x840 resolution and a
PROM-based server. The Towerview supports serial connections. Fonts are
down-loaded. The XL15 and XL19 have 15", 1024x800 and 19", 1280x1024 displays,
respectively. "Seems to be designed for the PC office." NCR has recently [5/90]
added a series of color terminals to its line; the terminals use a 68020 and
a TI34010 for low-level graphics. Offerings include a 14", 800x600 terminal,
one at 17" and 1024x768, and one at 19" and 1024x768.
Northwest Digital Systems (206-524-0014).
Princeton Graphic Systems (800-221-1490) has introduced the Ultra X line
with monochrome up to 1024x768 and color up to 1024x1280, expandable to 8MB.
Princeton has updated its line [12/90].
Qume (408-942-4000) has announced an X terminal called the QXT 10 X.
Samsung Software America has introduced the SGS-19, offering a 19",
1280x1024 display; it is based on the RISC Am29000. [5/90] "VERY fast mono."
Spectragraphics (619-450-0611) offers an X terminal with emulation for
the IBM 3270 and related terminals.
Tektronix (203-877-1494) terminals fully support X11R4 and support
DECnet optionally. "Price-performance curve-breakers."
Product Display Resolution Processor(s) Ram
======= =============== =============== ======================= =============
XP23 19" mono 72Hz 1280x1024x4 16 MHz Motorola 68030 5 - 21 MB
32 MHz TI 34020
XP25 14" color 60Hz 1152x900x8 16 MHz Motorola 68030 5 - 21 MB
32 MHz TI 34020
XP27 19" color 72Hz 1152x900x8 16 MHz Motorola 68030 5 - 21 MB
32 MHz TI 34020
XP29 19" color 72Hz 1280x1024x8 16 MHz Motorola 68030 5 - 21 MB
32 MHz TI 34020
Visual Technology (800-VISUALC; MA 508-836-4400) offers advanced
monochrome, grayscale, and color terminals featuring the most mature software
in the business. All terminals fully support MIT X11.4, including extensions
such as shape, XDMCP, XDSXDM, font daemon, and serial communications. Full
international keyboard support exists, with 6 language mappings provided
standard. Visual's advanced software provides a friendly terminal interface
with features such as font paging, remote configuration, keymap downloading,
and numlock synthesis. Networking protocols include TCP/IP, DECnet, and SLIP.
Model Display Resolution Processor(s) RAM
-------- ---------------- ----------- ---------------- --------
X14-ES 14" mono (82 Hz) 1024 x 800 12.5 MHz MC68000 1 - 4 MB
X15 15" mono (76 Hz) 1024 x 800 16.6 MHz MC68000 1 - 4 MB
X15Turbo 15" mono/2-plane 1152 x 900 20 MHz MC68000 2 - 8 MB
gray (70 Hz) plus h/w graphics assist
X19+ 19" mono (72 Hz) 1152 x 900 16.6 MHz MC68000 1 - 4 MB
X19Turbo 19" mono/2-plane 1280 x 1024 20 MHz MC68020 2 - 8 MB
gray (72 Hz) plus h/w graphics assist
XBase/10 8-plane color 1024 X 768 16 MHz MC68020 2 - 14 MB
plus 32 MHz TI34020 coprocessor
XBase/11 8-plane color 1152 x 900 20 MHz MC68020 2 - 14 MB
plus 40 MHz TI34020 coprocessor
XBase/12 8-plane color 1280 x 1024 16 MHz MC68020 2 - 14 MB
plus 32 MHz TI34020 coprocessor
"Good low-cost-per-seat performance stations." [10/90]
Digital Review's 2/26/90 issue evaluates a subset of these terminals.
Corrections are in the 3/5 issue, p.4. A rebuttal from Jupiter appears 3/19.
Digital News' 4/16/90 issue evaluates a subset of these terminals.
Unix World's 10/90 cover story evaluates a subset of these terminals.
[Note to vendors, in particular: it is becoming difficult to keep up with the
introduction of new models. Any updates to the above?]
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Subject: 27) Where can I get an X server on a PC?
AGE (619-565-7373) offers the XoftWare TIGA.
Bell Technologies (Fremont, CA: 415-659-9097)
PC DECWindows a.k.a. the PC DECWindows Display Facility is an MS-DOS
application that turns your PC into an X11R3 terminal. It supports DECnet.
Available from DEC. [Dennis Giokas (giokas@mosaic.enet.dec.com), 3/90]
SpectraGraphics/GSS (503-641-2200) makes PC-Xview, an
MSDOS-based X server which interfaces with PC/TCP Plus networking software from
FTP Software and Excelan's LAN WorkPlace for DOS. The server works with
(a) 286, 386, 486 (b) EGA, VGA, DGIS displays. (c) DOS 3.2 and above
(d) Microsoft, Logitech, Mouse Systems Mice (e) 640k memory up to 16 MB memory
[the PC-Xview/16 is available for PCs with extended memory].
HP (800-752-0900) has the "HP Accelerated X Window Display Server"
(HP AXDS/PC; HP part D2300B) which will run on any AT-class DOS machine with
640KB, MSDOS 3.1 or higher, and the HP Intelligent Graphics Controller 10 card,
to which the X11R3-based server is downloaded (avoiding performance-limitations
from PC RAM-size and processor speed). [from John Kempff (kempff@hppad.hp.com),
3/90]
Hummingbird Communications (Canada 416-470-1203) produces the
HCL-eXceed and HCL-eXceed Plus for EGA, VGA, and VGA+ controllers.
Information Network Solutions also offers a product called HCL-eXceed
for the *86. The fax is 02-4122079 inside Australia, 612-4122079 from overseas.
Integrated Inference Machines (714-978-6201 or -6776) is shipping
X11/AT, an X server that runs under MS-windows. The server converts an IBM-AT
into an X terminal which can simultaneously run MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows
applications.
Intelligent Decisions, Inc. (Sunnyvale, CA: 408-734-3730)
IBM is rumored to offer a product; part #5709-029.
Locus Computing (800-955-6287; CA: 213-670-6500; UK: +44 296 89911) has
a server called PC-Xsight which also appears in Acer's X terminal.
Pericom's TeemTalk-X for IBM clones allows toggling between X and DOS.
Information: +44 (0908) 560022. [5/90]
DESQview/X from Quarterdeck (?) incorporates X into the DESQview
multi-tasking DOS environment.
VisionWare's XVision is a Microsoft Windows-based X server which allows
an IBM-compatible PC or PS/2 to display X clients running on a networked
computer at the same time as local DOS programs. VisionWare is at 612-377-3627
or vision@vware.mn.org (UK: +44 532 788858 and vware@vision.uucp).
Xnth is an implementation of X11 R4 which runs on AT-bus PCs running
DOS 3.3 or higher. It currently supports 1280X1024 or 1024X768 resolution
monitors at 256 colors (out of 16M) with hardware accelleration for graphics
and text operations. It currently utilizes a TCP/IP byte stream over Ethernet.
Information: George MacDonald, Nth Graphics, Ltd., 1-800-624-7552.
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Subject: 28) Where can I get an X server on a Macintosh running MacOS?
eXodus from White Pine Software (603-886-9050) runs on any Mac with
at least 1MB of memory and runs the X server within a standard Macintosh
window. eXodus II uses the math co-processor and other features of high-end
Macs. [info current as of 6/89] Version 2.0 supports DECWindows colors, fonts,
and cursors, and session management, and supports color and multiple screens.
[5/90]
Apple's MacX runs on MacPlus or newer machines with >= 2MB of memory
and system software 6.0.4 or later. It is an "X11R3.5" server that includes
support for an optional built-in ICCCM-compliant window manager, X11R4 fonts
and colors, a built-in BDF font compiler, and built-in standard colormaps, and
it supports the X11R4 notion "all visuals that make sense" for color displays.
Version 1.0 started shipping at the end of May.
[courtesy Alan Mimms (alan@apple.com], 3/90] "X for the rest of us."
[Note: MacX is also the name of a vax-mac xmodem transfer utility.]
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Subject: 29) Where can I get a fast X server for a workstation?
The R4 server should be among the fastest available for most machines.
The "Purdue" speedups significantly speed up the X11R3 server. Look on
expo.lcs.mit.edu:contrib/Purdue.2.[01]-tar.Z. (You'll also need gcc.)
International Quest Corporation (408-988-8289) has an optimized R3
server for Sun3/4/386i under SunOS 4.0 and also an optimized R4 server.
Unipalm XTech (+44 954 211244) makes several R3-based and R4-based
tuned servers, most notably for Sun 3 and Sun 4. (Note: the original work
was inherited from Torch Technology.)
Xgraph's Xtool (408-492-9031) is an X server implemented in SunView
which boasts impressive results on Sun 3 and SPARC systems. [6/90]
Several companies are making hardware accellerator boards:
Dupont Pixel Systems (302-992-6911), for Sun.
Megatek's (619-455-5590) X-cellerator board for the Sun 3 and Sun 4 is
based on the TI 34020; the company claims performance improvements of 5x to
10x over the sample X11R3 server.
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Subject: 30)+ Where can I get a server for my graphics Sun?
Takahashi Naoto of the University of Tsukuba (ntakahas@is.tsukuba.ac.jp)
posted a set of diffs to the MIT X11R4 server to support the Sun CG8 and CG9
boards. These are available in the comp.sources.x archives for October 1990 and
from alw.nih.gov (128.231.128.251) in pub/cg9_cg8.tar.Z.
[thanks to John Powell (jip@alw.nih.gov); 12/90]
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Subject: 31) What terminal emulators other than xterm are available?
Century Software (801-268-3088) sells a VT220 terminal emulator for X.
VT102, Wyse 50 and SCO Color Console emulation are also available.
Grafpoint's TGRAF-X provides emulation of the Tektronix 41xx and 42xx
series. Information: 408-446-1919. [5/90]
IXI's X.deskterm, a package for integrating character-based
applications into an X environment, includes a number of terminal-emulation
modules. Information: +44 (0223) 462131. [5/90]
Pericom produces Teem-X, a set of several emulation packages for a
number of Tek, DEC, Westward, and Data General terminals. The software runs on
Sun 3, Sun 4, Apollo, DEC, ISC, IBM/AIX. Information: US: 609-895-0404,
UK: +44 (0908) 560022. [5/90]
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Subject: 32) Where can I obtain an X-based editor or word-processor?
You can ftp the latest version of emacs, including X11 support, from
prep.ai.mit.edu [18.71.0.38]. The file you probably want is
~ftp/pub/gnu/emacs-18.55.tar.Z, or similarly-named files.
Epoch is a modified version of Gnu Emacs with additional facilities
useful in an X environment. Epoch is available by anonymous ftp from
cs.uiuc.edu (128.174.252.1), in the directory pub/epoch-files. There are two
subdirectories: epoch contains the epoch source, and gwm contains the source
to the programmable window manager GWM, with which epoch works well.
The Andrew system on the X11R4 tape has been described as one of the
best word-processing packages available. It supports word processing with
multi-media embedded objects: rasters, tables/spread sheets, drawings, style
editor, application builder, embedded programming language, &c.
[Fred Hansen (wjh+@ANDREW.CMU.EDU)]
In addition:
Elan Computer Group (Mountain View, CA; 415-964-2200) has announced the
Avalon Publisher, an X11/OpenLook WYSIWYG electronic publishing system.
FrameMaker and FrameWriter are available as X-based binary products for
several machines. Frame is at 800-843-7263 (CA: 408-433-3311).
WX2 (formerly InDepthEdit) is available from Non Standard Logics
(+33 (1) 43 36 77 50; requests@nsl.fr).
DECwrite is available from DEC for some DEC hardware and SunWrite is
available from Sun.
IslandWrite will soon be available from Island Graphics (415-491-1000)
for some HP & Apollo platforms.
Interleaf is currently available from Interleaf (800-241-7700,
MA: 617-577-9800) on all Sun and DEC platforms; others are under development.
The Alis office-productivity tool from Applix (1-800-8APPLIX, MA:
508-870-0300) includes a multi-font WYSIWG document composer; for several
systems.
ArborText, Inc. provides an X11 version of its Electronic Publishing
program called "The Publisher". The Publisher is available on Sun, HP and
Apollo workstations. Contact Arbortext at 313-996-3566. [5/90]
Iris Computing Laboratories (615-886-3429) makes the "ie" editor.
BBN/Slate from BBN Software Products includes a menu-driven word
processor with multiple fonts and style sheets. It supports X on
multiple platforms. (617-873-5000 or slate-offer@bbn.com) [11/90]
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Subject: 33) Where can I obtain an X-based paint/draw program?
xpic is an object-oriented drawing program. It supports multiple font
styles and sizes and variable line widths; there are no rotations or zooms.
xpic is quite suitable as an interactive front-end to pic, though the
xpic-format produced can be converted into PostScript. (The latest version is
on the R4 contrib tape in clients/xpic.)
xfig is an object-oriented drawing program supporting compound objects.
The text-handling is limited. The xfig-format can be converted in PostScript or
other formats. One version is on the R4 contrib tape in clients/xfig; it is one
of the several 'xfig' programs which several groups independently developed
parallel versions of from the R3 xfig.
idraw 2.5 supports numerous fonts and various line styles and arbitrary
rotations. It supports zoom and scroll and color draws and fills. On the R4
tape; see also interviews-request@interviews.stanford.edu.
[courtesy Jim Helman (jim@kaos.Stanford.EDU) 7/89]
In addition:
dxpaint is a bitmap-oriented drawing program most like MacPaint; it's
good for use by artists but commonly held to be bad for drawing figures or
drafting. dxpaint is part of the Ultrix 3.x release.
FrameMaker has some draw capabilities. [4/90]
ArborText (313-996-3566) offers PubDraw, an X11-based drawing program,
on Sun, HP and Apollo workstations.
BBN/Slate from BBN Software Products includes a full-featured draw and
paint program with object grouping and multiple patterns; multiple X platforms.
(617-873-5000 or slate-offer@bbn.com). [11/90]
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Subject: 34) Where can I obtain an X-based spreadsheet?
Vendor Product Phone
------ ------- -----
Access Technology 20/20 (508) 655-9191
Informix WingZ (800) 331-1763
Quality Software Products Q-Calc/eXclaim 800-628-3999 (CA:213-410-0303)
Unipress Q-Calc (201) 985-8000
Uniplex Uniplex (214) 717-0068, (800) 356-8063
[above from Walter E. Gillett (gillett@AI.MIT.EDU)]
Digital DECdecision 1-800-DIGITAL
BBN Software Products BBN/Slate 617-873-5000 slate-offer@bbn.com
(the product includes WordProcessing, Spreadsheet, Graphics, Image
Processing, Foreign Language WordProcessing, Electronic Mail, and
Elecronic Conferencing)
AIS's (919-942-7801) XESS spreadsheet for VMS/Ultrix has either DECWindows or
Motif look/feel.
The Alis office-productivity tool from Applix (1-800-8APPLIX, MA: 508-870-0300)
includes a spreadsheet.
There is a spreadsheet program in the Andrew Toolkit on the R4 contrib tape.
Applied Information Systems (Chapel Hill, North Carolina; 1 800 334 5510) will
begin shipping in mid-October an X11/Motif spreadsheet called Xess.
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Subject: 35) Where can I get an X-based PostScript previewer?
xps is available from almost everywhere that the X11 contributed source
can be found. The version currently on expo is based on Crispin Goswell's
PostScript interpreter with fixes and speedups by John Myers and Barry Shein
and an X11 driver by Terry Weissman. There are known problems with fonts. The
package is good for lowering the edit-print-edit cycle in experimenting with
particular PostScript effects. [ralpage, also widely available, apparently
shares with xps a common ancestor, and should also be considered.]
Ghostscript is distributed by the Free Software Foundation
(617-876-3296) and includes a PostScript interpreter and a library of graphics
primitives. The README for the widely-distributed version 1.3 points out that
it doesn't take advantage of many of the facilities offered by X but that this
is intended to change in the future; version 2.0 is now available. [10/90]
In addition:
ScriptWorks is Harlequin's software package for previewing and printing
PostScript(R) descriptions of text and graphics images; previewers for X are
available. For information call +44-223-872522 or send email to
scriptworks-request@uk.co.harlqn.
Digital's dxpsview runs on UWS 2.1 and 2.2.
Sun's pageview runs with the X11/NeWS server.
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Subject: 36)* Where can I get an X-based GKS package?
The latest freely-available XGKS can be obtained from
xgks-request@unidata.ucar.edu; this is a 2c implementation derived from the
X11R4 contrib XGKS from IBM and the University of Illinois. Release 2.2
is on unidata.ucar.edu [128.117.140.3] as pub/xgks.tar.Z. [12/90]
In addition, Grafpak-GKS is available from Advanced Technology Center
(714-583-9119).
GKSUL is available from gks@ulowell.edu (ULowell CS department). It is
a 2b implementation which includes drivers for a variety of devices. It can be
passed an X window ID to use. The package includes both C and Fortran bindings.
[11/90; from dsrand@mitre.org and from stew@hanauma.stanford.edu]
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Subject: 37) Where can I get an X-based troff previewer?
X11R4 has two previewers for device-independent troff: the supported
client xditview, and the contributed-but-well-maintained xtroff. An earlier
version of xtroff also appeared on the R3 contributed source.
In addition:
xproof, an X previewer for ditroff has been contributed by Marvin
Solomon (solomon@cs.wisc.edu); version 3.5 is available on expo in
contrib/xproof*. [8/90]
Elan Computer Group (CA: 415-964-2200) produces eroff, a modified
troff implementation, and Elan/Express, an X11 eroff previewer.
SoftQuad (416-963-8337; USA only 800-387-2777, mail@sq.uu.net or
mail@sq.com) offers SoftQuad Publishing Software, including a substantially-
rewritten troff formatter, a better intermediate language with backwards
compatibility, and an X11[R3,R4] previewer. (This is the package adopted by
AT&T's own MIS department, and used in and re-sold by many parts of AT&T).
[information from Ian Darwin, SoftQuad (ian@sq.com) 3/90]
Image Network (1-800-TOXROFF; CA: 415-967-0542) offers the Xroff
package, which includes a fine modified troff implementation and a set of
X11-based page previewers. (This is the package OEM'ed by several hardware
vendors.)
[mostly courtesy moraes@cs.toronto.edu (Mark Moraes)] [2/90]
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Subject: 38)* Where can I obtain a WYSIWYG interface builder?
Preliminary verions of the Xt application builder DIRT by Richard
Hesketh are available on expo.lcs.mit.edu (18.30.0.212) as contrib/dirt*. Dirt
requires X11R4 through patch 18. From the README:
This builder allows the interactive creation and rapid prototyping of X user
interfaces using the X Toolkit and a number of Widget Sets. Dirt generates
"Wc - Widget Creation" resource files and this distribution also includes the
Widget Creation Library (version 1.04, with the exception of the demos and
Mri/Ari source code) with the kind permission of its author David E. Smyth.
In addition, these commercial products (unsorted) are available in
final or prerelease form [the * following the product name indicates that the
product is known to allow the designer to specify for each widget whether a
particular resource is hard-coded or written to an application defaults file,
for at least one form of output]. Some are much more than user-interface tools;
some are full user interface management systems:
Product Name Look/Feel Code Output Vendor
HP Interface Motif 1.0 C(Xm+ helper lib) HP/Visual Edge
Architect/ UIMX
Open Look Express Open Look C(Xol+ helper lib) AT&T/Visual Edge
UIMX [Sun version] Motif 1.0 C(Xm+ helper lib) Quest
(408-988-8880)
Visual Edge
514-332-6430
VUIT 1.0 Motif 1.1 UIL[r/w] DEC
(1-800-DIGITAL)
X Designer Motif 1.0 C(Xm)?? Imperial
Software
(44 734 587055)
sales@ist.co.uk
XFaceMaker2 (XFM2) * Motif 1.0 C;C/script (C-like procedural language)
NSL
(33 1 43 36 77 50)
requests@nsl.fr
Builder Xcessory 1.0 * Motif 1.0 C(Xm); C/UIL[r/w] ICS
(617-547-0510)
info@ics.com
XBUILD 1.1 * Motif 1.0 C(Xm); C/UIL Nixdorf
(617-864-0066)
xbuild@nixdorf.com
TeleUSE 1.1 Motif 1.0 PCD (like UIL);D;C + helper lib
Telesoft
(619-457-2700)
ezX Motif 1.0 C(Xm +helper lib) Sunrise
(401-847-7888)
/dev/GUIDE Open Look GIL [-> XView] Sun
ExoCode/SXM Motif C(Xm) Expert Object
ExoCode/Plus OpenLook XView 708-676-5555
TAE+ Xw;Motif C(Xw,Xm); C/TCL (TAE Control Language,
like UIL[needs helper library]);
VAX Fortran; Ada
Nasa Goddard
(301) 286-6034
PSM PM, MSW 3.0, C/UIL LanCorp
Motif 1.0.3,Mac Technologies
+61 3 606 3801
(Australia)
[Future versions of this table may include information on the meta-file format
used and will probably be more specific about the portability and completeness
of output code and will probably look more like a Consumer Reports summary of
features.]
In addition, these non-WYSIWYG but related products may help for goals
of rapid prototyping of the application interface:
WCL: the Widget Creation Library. Basically describes the widget
hierarchy and actions in a resources file; available from fine archive servers
everywhere, including devvax.jpl.nasa.gov (128.149.1.143) in pub/.
WINTERP: an Xlisp-based Motif toolkit allows for interpretive
programming. The copy on the R4 tape is outdated; get a copy off expo or email
to winterp-source%hplnpm@hplabs.hp.com.
In addition, these products may help for similar goals:
The Serpent UIMS permits the building of user-interfaces without
specific knowledge of coding but with an understanding of attributes being set
on a particular [Motif] widget. More information is available from Erik Hardy
(erik@sei.cmu.edu)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 39) Where can I find X tools callable from shell scripts?
I want to have a shell script pop up menus and yes/no dialog boxes if the user
is running X.
Several tools in the R3 contrib/ area were developed to satisfy these
needs: yorn pops up a yes/no box, xmessage displays a string, etc. There are
several versions of these tools; few, if any, have made it to the R4 contrib/
area, though they may still be available on various archive sites.
In addition, Richard Hesketh (rlh2@ukc.ac.uk) has posted the xmenu
package to comp.sources.x ("v08i008: xmenu") for 1-of-n choices.
[7/90]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 40) TOPIC: BUILDING THE X DISTRIBUTION
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 41) How do I build X with gcc?
MIT is now using regularly the Free Software Foundation's
GNU-CC to build the X distribution and uses gcc-built servers to test
performance increases.
[These options are gathered from several descriptions of building
X with gcc 1.34, 1.35, and 1.36]:
Use the options
-O -fstrength-reduce -fpcc-struct-return
-traditional may also be necessary if your version of
gcc is sufficiently old.
Do not use -finline-functions, particularly on the R4 server.
---> Make sure to run 'fixincludes' from the gcc distribution
---> before doing anything, or you will get fatal errors such as:
---> xterm: Error 15, errno 25: Inappropriate ioctl for device.
HOWEVER, there is a bug in gcc 1.34 and 1.36 (but not in 1.35 or 1.37) which
miscompiles things of the form (expr == 0 ? exp1 : exp2). The fix needed in
X11R4 (and probably X11R3) is to change the definition of XtNewString in
Intrinsic.h to:
#define XtNewString(str) \
((str) != NULL ? (strcpy(XtMalloc((unsigned)strlen(str) + 1), str)) : NULL)
A work-around is also in fix-2 to X11R4.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 42) Why can't gcc compile X11R4 on my SPARC?
I used gcc to compile the whole distribution, but I get several segmentation
faults when running X.
Note first that gcc on RISC machines does not necessarily result in
any performance increase; it certainly is not as noticeable as it is on the
680x0 or VAX platforms.
Here is the problem: gcc and cc use incompatible methods of passing
structures as arguments and returning them as function values, so when
gcc-compiled parts of X are linked with Sun-supplied functions that pass or
return structs, run-time errors occur. Affected programs include rgb and
the server.
This is from the GCC manual:
On the Sparc, GNU CC uses an incompatible calling convention for
structures. It passes them by including their contents in the argument
list, whereas the standard compiler passes them effectively by
reference.
This really ought to be fixed, but such calling conventions are not yet
supported in GNU CC, so it isn't straightforward to fix it.
The convention for structure returning is also incompatible, and
`-fpcc-struct-return' does not help.
You can duck the problem either by using cc throughout or by using it for just
the routines which cause incompatibilities; the problem cannot be solved with
compilation flags.
Files which need to be compiled using cc include:
server/os/4.2bsd/oscolor.c
rgb/rgb.c
In addition, several of the "init_" functions use structs as args or
return values:
clients/xhost/xhost.c
clients/xauth/gethost.c.
Calls to inet_addr in /lib/CLX/socket.c and lib/X/XConnDis.c are possibly
harmless as they don't involve structs.
[collected by bashford@scripps.edu (Don Bashford); 8/90]
--------------------------------------------------
Local Variables:
mode: outline
outline-regexp: "Subject:[ ]+[0-9]+)"
eval: (hide-body)
End:
--
The X User's Group xug@expo.lcs.mit.edu +1 617 547 0634
"No, I'm a member of the X User's Group, not the Ex-User's Group."xug@lta.com (X User's Group) (01/31/91)
[Last changed: 30 Jan 91]
This article contains the second of three parts of a set of answers to some
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) often seen in comp.windows.x.
It is posted to help reduce volume in this newsgroup and to provide
hard-to-find information of general interest.
Please redistribute this article!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 25) What is the xstuff mail-archive?
The xstuff server is a mail-response program. That means that you mail
it a request, and it mails back the response.
Any of the four possible commands must be the first word on a line. The
xstuff server reads your entire message before it does anything, so you can
have several different commands in a single message (unless you ask for help).
The xstuff server treats the "Subject:" header line just like any other line
of the message.
The archives are organized into a series of directories and
subdirectories. Each directory has an index, and each subdirectory has an
index. The top-level index gives you an overview of what is in the
subdirectories, and the index for each subdirectory tells you what is in it.
1) The command "help" or "send help" causes the server to send you a
more detailed version of this help file.
2) if your message contains a line whose first word is "index", then
the server will send you the top-level index of the contents of the archive. If
there are other words on that line that match the name of subdirectories, then
the indexes for those subdirectories are sent instead of the top-level index.
For example, you can say "send index fixes" (or "index fixes"). A message that
requests an index cannot request data.
3) if your message contains a line whose first word is "send", then the
xstuff server will send you the item(s) named on the rest of the line. To name
an item, you give its directory and its name. For example
send fixes 1 3 4
You may issue multiple send requests. The xstuff server contains many
safeguards to ensure that it is not monopolized by people asking for large
amounts of data. The mailer is set up so that it will send no more than a fixed
amount of data each day. If the work queue contains more requests than the
day's quota, then the unsent files will not be processed until the next day.
Whenever the mailer is run to send its day's quota, it sends the requests out
shortest-first.
4) Some mailers produce mail headers that are unusable for extracting
return addresses. If you use such a mailer, you won't get any response. If
you happen to know an explicit path, you can include a line like
path foo%bar.bitnet@mitvma.mit.edu
or
path bar!foo!frotz
in the body of your message, and the daemon will use it.
The xstuff server itself can be reached at xstuff@expo.lcs.mit.edu. If
your mailer deals in "!" notation, try sending to
{someplace}!mit-eddie!expo.lcs.mit.edu!xstuff.
[based on information from the MIT X Consortium, 8/89, 4/90.]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 26)* What is the current state of the world in X terminals?
Here is a selection of vendors with "impressions of consensus opinions".
AT&T's (800-247-1212; ask for local dealer) 730X has a 1Kx1K monochrome
(amber or white) display with a 1:1 aspect ratio. The terminal supports
multiple Telnet sessions and AT&T windowing in addition to X. The 730 supports
ISO or TCP/IP over twisted pair. "Very, very nice."
DEC (800-343-4040) offers the VT1200, a home-brew 15" 1024x864
monochrome terminal using the TI 34010; this replaces the VT1200. In addition,
DEC offers a VT1300, the Vax-in-a-box.
Gipsi S.A. (+33 (1) 30.60.75.00 or Jeff Abramatic at jfa@gipsi.fr) in
10/89 announced "le tX", a line of 68030-based X terminals running X11R3.
High-end models, at least, feature downloadable X servers.
Model Memory Resolution Display Refresh (Hz) Price (FF)
M 2 MB 1280x960x1 19" B&W 66 32 400
Me 2 MB 1280x960x2 19" Greyscale 66 38 000
C4 2 MB 1280x768x4 16" Colour 60 59 900
C8 4 MB 1280x1024x8 19" Colour 60 79 400
Expansion is up to 8MB and 8 planes.
The exclusive US distributor is Peripheral Design, Inc (404-263-0067).
"Looks fairly nice; shouldn't be overlooked."
GraphOn (800-472-7466) OptimaX 200 runs a server on the host which
translates from X protocol to a proprietary protocol which can run over a
serial line. The screen is 14". The terminal is based on a 12MHz 68000. (See
the December 1989 issue of XNextEvent for an informal review.) "Best available
solution for RS232C lines."
Hewlett-Packard (800-752-0900; ask for local sales office) offers the
700/X family of grayscale and color X-terminals. All models are designed with a
dual processor architecture, thin and thick Ethernet, a serial port, and
support for over 20 different local language keyboards (PS/2-style and HP-HIL
available). HP X-terminals can be upgraded to an HP 9000 workstation.
Models Display Resolution Planes Processor Coprocessor Memory
------ ------- ---------- ------ --------- ----------- ------
700/X Grayscale 19" 1024x768 8 34010/60MHz 80186/16MHz 1-9 MB
700/X VGA Color 14" 640x480 8 34010/60MHz 80186/16MHz 1-9 MB
700/X Hi-Res Color 16" 1024x768 8 34010/60MHz 80186/16MHz 1-9 MB
NOTE: All 700/X models offer virtual panning to 1024 x 1024 pixel resolution,
and support a wide variety of other display types and sizes. [8/90]
Human Design Systems (800-437-1551) offers several models of the
HDS ViewStation Plus series, based on an Intel 80186 and a TI 34010. Base
configuration is 1.75MB expandable to 9MB. [12/90]
Product Resolution Planes
------- ---------- -----------
v14 640x480 pixels 4 gray shades
v16 1024x1024 pixels 4, 16, or 256 gray shades
v191 1024x864 pixels monochrome
v19 1280x1024 pixels 4, 16, or 256 gray shades
v14c 640x480 pixels 16 colors
v15c 1024x768 pixels 16 colors
v16c 1024x800 pixels 256 colors
v17c 1280x1024 pixels 256 colors
v21c 1280x1024 pixels 256 colors
IBM's Xstation 120 starts with 512KB of memory and features support
for simultaneous Token-Ring and Ethernet connections. [2/90] AGE (619-565-7373)
has software that allows it to work with Suns, RTs, and DECstations as well as
the IBM Powerstation machines.
Jupiter Systems (415-523-9000, 508-836-4400) produces the Model 310
which features a 19-inch 1280x1024 color monitor. "A price leader, but also a
performance leader." The Model 410 has a 19", 1280x1024 monitor and offers
a large palette and high memory expansion. [5/90] Model 410. Also Model 412
supports two 19", 1280x1024 monitors; 25MHz 68030 CPU, optimized R4 with SHAPE.
[1/91]
Labtam Australia (Australia +61 3 587 1444) now sells three
terminals based on an Intel 80960K RISC Processor, and running X11R4 [1/91].
Model Memory Resolution Processor X stones
MT200 4 - 8 MB 1280x960x1 80960K @ 20 Mhz 66+ K
CT101 4 - 16 MB 1024x800x8 80960K @ 25 Mhz 49 K
CT200 4 - 16 MB 1280x1024x8 80960K @ 25 Mhz 52 K
Micronics (415-651-2300) offers the MaxTerm, based on a 25MHz 80386 and
featuring a 19", 1280x1024 screen. The MaxTerm offers virtual memory. [5/90]
Network Computing Devices (415-694-0650 or support@ncd.com) offers
monochrome and color X-terminals. All units are designed with no fan, 70 Hz
refresh, thick & thin Ethernet, a serial port, an opto-mechanical mouse and a
choice of keyboards (including PS/2-style, DEC LK-201 style, and compact
UNIX-style). NCDware features full X11R4 support. [Doug Klein, klein@ncd.com,
7/90.]
Product Display Resolution Planes Processor Graphics Memory
------- ---------- ----------- ------- -------------- -------- ----------
NCD16 16" Square 1024 x 1024 Mono 68000 12.5 MHz ASIC 1.5-4.5 MB
NCD19b 19" 1024 x 800 Mono 68000 16 MHz ASIC 2-5 MB
NCD16e 16" Square 1024 x 1024 Mono 68020 15 MHz 2-8 MB
NCD19 19" 1280 x 1024 Mono 68020 15 MHz 2-8 MB
NCD17c 17" 1024 x 768 8 Color 68020 20 MHz 2 ASICs 2-8 MB
NCR (513-445-2033) offers the Towerview with 1024x840 resolution and a
PROM-based server. The Towerview supports serial connections. Fonts are
down-loaded. The XL15 and XL19 have 15", 1024x800 and 19", 1280x1024 displays,
respectively. "Seems to be designed for the PC office." NCR has recently [5/90]
added a series of color terminals to its line; the terminals use a 68020 and
a TI34010 for low-level graphics. Offerings include a 14", 800x600 terminal,
one at 17" and 1024x768, and one at 19" and 1024x768.
Northwest Digital Systems (206-524-0014).
Princeton Graphic Systems (800-221-1490) has introduced the Ultra X line
with monochrome up to 1024x768 and color up to 1024x1280, expandable to 8MB.
Princeton has updated its line [12/90].
Qume (408-942-4000) has announced an X terminal called the QXT 10 X.
Samsung Software America has introduced the SGS-19, offering a 19",
1280x1024 display; it is based on the RISC Am29000. [5/90] "VERY fast mono."
Spectragraphics (619-450-0611) offers an X terminal with emulation for
the IBM 3270 and related terminals.
Tektronix (800225-5434) terminals fully support X11R4 and support
DECnet optionally. "Price-performance curve-breakers."
Product Display Resolution Processor(s) Ram
======= =============== =============== ======================= =============
XP23 19" mono 72Hz 1280x1024x4 16 MHz Motorola 68030 5 - 21 MB
32 MHz TI 34020
XP25 14" color 60Hz 1152x900x8 16 MHz Motorola 68030 5 - 21 MB
32 MHz TI 34020
XP27 19" color 72Hz 1152x900x8 16 MHz Motorola 68030 5 - 21 MB
32 MHz TI 34020
XP29 19" color 72Hz 1280x1024x8 16 MHz Motorola 68030 5 - 21 MB
32 MHz TI 34020
Visual Technology (800-VISUALC; MA 508-836-4400) offers advanced
monochrome, grayscale, and color terminals featuring the most mature software
in the business. All terminals fully support MIT X11.4, including extensions
such as shape, XDMCP, XDSXDM, font daemon, and serial communications. Full
international keyboard support exists, with 6 language mappings provided
standard. Visual's advanced software provides a friendly terminal interface
with features such as font paging, remote configuration, keymap downloading,
and numlock synthesis. Networking protocols include TCP/IP, DECnet, and SLIP.
Model Display Resolution Processor(s) RAM
-------- ---------------- ----------- ---------------- --------
X14-ES 14" mono (82 Hz) 1024 x 800 12.5 MHz MC68000 1 - 4 MB
X15 15" mono (76 Hz) 1024 x 800 16.6 MHz MC68000 1 - 4 MB
X15Turbo 15" mono/2-plane 1152 x 900 20 MHz MC68000 2 - 8 MB
gray (70 Hz) plus h/w graphics assist
X19+ 19" mono (72 Hz) 1152 x 900 16.6 MHz MC68000 1 - 4 MB
X19Turbo 19" mono/2-plane 1280 x 1024 20 MHz MC68020 2 - 8 MB
gray (72 Hz) plus h/w graphics assist
XBase/10 8-plane color 1024 X 768 16 MHz MC68020 2 - 14 MB
plus 32 MHz TI34020 coprocessor
XBase/11 8-plane color 1152 x 900 20 MHz MC68020 2 - 14 MB
plus 40 MHz TI34020 coprocessor
XBase/12 8-plane color 1280 x 1024 16 MHz MC68020 2 - 14 MB
plus 32 MHz TI34020 coprocessor
"Good low-cost-per-seat performance stations." [10/90]
Digital Review's 2/26/90 issue evaluates a subset of these terminals.
Corrections are in the 3/5 issue, p.4. A rebuttal from Jupiter appears 3/19.
Digital News' 4/16/90 issue evaluates a subset of these terminals.
Unix World's 10/90 cover story evaluates a subset of these terminals.
[Note to vendors, in particular: it is becoming difficult to keep up with the
introduction of new models. Any updates to the above?]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 27)+ Where can I get an X server with a touchscreen or lightpen?
Labtam offers a 19" Surface Acoustic Wave touch-screen option on its
Xengine terminals.
Tektronix (1-800-225-5434) provides an X terminal with the Xtouch
touch-screen. Thjis terminal may also be resold through Trident Systems
(703-273-1012).
[1/91]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 28)* Where can I get an X server on a PC?
AGE (619-565-7373) offers the XoftWare TIGA.
Bell Technologies (Fremont, CA: 415-659-9097)
PC DECWindows a.k.a. the PC DECWindows Display Facility is an MS-DOS
application that turns your PC into an X11R3 terminal. It supports DECnet.
Available from DEC. [Dennis Giokas (giokas@mosaic.enet.dec.com), 3/90]
HP (800-752-0900) has the "HP Accelerated X Window Display Server"
(HP AXDS/PC; HP part D2300B) which will run on any AT-class DOS machine with
640KB, MSDOS 3.1 or higher, and the HP Intelligent Graphics Controller 10 card,
to which the X11R3-based server is downloaded (avoiding performance-limitations
from PC RAM-size and processor speed). [from John Kempff (kempff@hppad.hp.com),
3/90]
Hummingbird Communications (Canada 416-470-1203) produces the
HCL-eXceed and HCL-eXceed Plus for EGA, VGA, and VGA+ controllers.
Information Network Solutions also offers a product called HCL-eXceed
for the *86. The fax is 02-4122079 inside Australia, 612-4122079 from overseas.
Integrated Inference Machines (714-978-6201 or -6776) is shipping
X11/AT, an X server that runs under MS-windows. The server converts an IBM-AT
into an X terminal which can simultaneously run MS-DOS and Microsoft Windows
applications.
Intelligent Decisions, Inc. (Sunnyvale, CA: 408-734-3730)
IBM is rumored to offer a product; part #5709-029.
Locus Computing (800-955-6287; CA: 213-670-6500; UK: +44 296 89911) has
a server called PC-Xsight which also appears in Acer's X terminal.
Metrolink Inc. (+1-305-566-9586, sales@metrolink.com; in Europe contact
ADNT, (33 1) 3956 5333) ships an implementation of X11R4 for several 386
systems.
Pericom's TeemTalk-X for IBM clones allows toggling between X and DOS.
Information: +44 (0908) 560022. [5/90]
DESQview/X from Quarterdeck (?) incorporates X into the DESQview
multi-tasking DOS environment.
SpectraGraphics/GSS (503-641-2200) makes PC-Xview, an
MSDOS-based X server which interfaces with PC/TCP Plus networking software from
FTP Software and Excelan's LAN WorkPlace for DOS. The server works with
(a) 286, 386, 486 (b) EGA, VGA, DGIS displays. (c) DOS 3.2 and above
(d) Microsoft, Logitech, Mouse Systems Mice (e) 640k memory up to 16 MB memory
[the PC-Xview/16 is available for PCs with extended memory].
VisionWare's XVision is a Microsoft Windows-based X server which allows
an IBM-compatible PC or PS/2 to display X clients running on a networked
computer at the same time as local DOS programs. VisionWare is at 612-377-3627
or vision@vware.mn.org (UK: +44 532 788858 and vware@vision.uucp).
Xnth is an implementation of X11 R4 which runs on AT-bus PCs running
DOS 3.3 or higher. It currently supports 1280X1024 or 1024X768 resolution
monitors at 256 colors (out of 16M) with hardware accelleration for graphics
and text operations. It currently utilizes a TCP/IP byte stream over Ethernet.
Information: Jerry Norman, Nth Graphics, Ltd., 1-800-624-7552.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 29) Where can I get an X server on a Macintosh running MacOS?
eXodus from White Pine Software (603-886-9050) runs on any Mac with
at least 1MB of memory and runs the X server within a standard Macintosh
window. eXodus II uses the math co-processor and other features of high-end
Macs. [info current as of 6/89] Version 2.0 supports DECWindows colors, fonts,
and cursors, and session management, and supports color and multiple screens.
[5/90]
Apple's MacX runs on MacPlus or newer machines with >= 2MB of memory
and system software 6.0.4 or later. It is an "X11R3.5" server that includes
support for an optional built-in ICCCM-compliant window manager, X11R4 fonts
and colors, a built-in BDF font compiler, and built-in standard colormaps, and
it supports the X11R4 notion "all visuals that make sense" for color displays.
Version 1.0 started shipping at the end of May. Versions 1.1 is shipping
now. [1/91]
[courtesy Alan Mimms (alan@apple.com], 3/90] "X for the rest of us."
[Note: MacX is also the name of a vax-mac xmodem transfer utility.]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 30) Where can I get a fast X server for a workstation?
The R4 server should be among the fastest available for most machines.
The "Purdue" speedups significantly speed up the X11R3 server. Look on
expo.lcs.mit.edu:contrib/Purdue.2.[01]-tar.Z. (You'll also need gcc.)
International Quest Corporation (408-988-8289) has an optimized R3
server for Sun3/4/386i under SunOS 4.0 and also an optimized R4 server.
Unipalm XTech (+44 954 211244) makes several R3-based and R4-based
tuned servers, most notably for Sun 3 and Sun 4. (Note: the original work
was inherited from Torch Technology.)
Xgraph's Xtool (408-492-9031) is an X server implemented in SunView
which boasts impressive results on Sun 3 and SPARC systems. [6/90]
Several companies are making hardware accellerator boards:
Dupont Pixel Systems (302-992-6911), for Sun.
Megatek's (619-455-5590) X-cellerator board for the Sun 3 and Sun 4 is
based on the TI 34020; the company claims performance improvements of 5x to
10x over the sample X11R3 server.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 31)* Where can I get a server for my high-end Sun graphics board?
Takahashi Naoto of the University of Tsukuba (ntakahas@is.tsukuba.ac.jp)
posted a set of diffs to the MIT X11R4 server to support the Sun CG8 and CG9
boards. These are available in the comp.sources.x archives for October 1990 and
from alw.nih.gov (128.231.128.251) in pub/cg9_cg8.tar.Z.
[thanks to John Powell (jip@alw.nih.gov); 12/90]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 32)* What terminal emulators other than xterm are available?
PCS has rewritten xterm from scratch using a multi-widget approach that
can be used by applications. The *alpha* distribution is available [1/91] on
expo in contrib/emu.tar.Z. More information is available from
emu@pcsbst.pcs.com.
Century Software (801-268-3088) sells a VT220 terminal emulator for X.
VT102, Wyse 50 and SCO Color Console emulation are also available.
Grafpoint's TGRAF-X provides emulation of the Tektronix 41xx and 42xx
series. Information: 408-446-1919. [5/90]
IXI's X.deskterm, a package for integrating character-based
applications into an X environment, includes a number of terminal-emulation
modules. Information: +44 (0223) 462131. [5/90]
Pericom produces Teem-X, a set of several emulation packages for a
number of Tek, DEC, Westward, and Data General terminals. The software runs on
Sun 3, Sun 4, Apollo, DEC, ISC, IBM/AIX. Information: US: 609-895-0404,
UK: +44 (0908) 560022. [5/90]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 33)* Where can I obtain an X-based editor or word-processor?
You can ftp the latest version of emacs, including X11 support, from
prep.ai.mit.edu [18.71.0.38]. The file you probably want is
~ftp/pub/gnu/emacs-18.55.tar.Z, or similarly-named files.
Epoch is a modified version of Gnu Emacs with additional facilities
useful in an X environment. Epoch is available by anonymous ftp from
cs.uiuc.edu (128.174.252.1), in the directory pub/epoch-files. There are two
subdirectories: epoch contains the epoch source, and gwm contains the source
to the programmable window manager GWM, with which epoch works well.
The Andrew system on the X11R4 tape has been described as one of the
best word-processing packages available. It supports word processing with
multi-media embedded objects: rasters, tables/spread sheets, drawings, style
editor, application builder, embedded programming language, &c.
[Fred Hansen (wjh+@ANDREW.CMU.EDU)]
In addition:
Elan Computer Group (Mountain View, CA; 415-964-2200) has announced the
Avalon Publisher, an X11/OpenLook WYSIWYG electronic publishing system.
FrameMaker and FrameWriter are available as X-based binary products for
several machines. Frame is at 800-843-7263 (CA: 408-433-3311).
WX2 (formerly InDepthEdit) is available from Non Standard Logics
(+33 (1) 43 36 77 50; requests@nsl.fr).
DECwrite is available from DEC for some DEC hardware and SunWrite is
available from Sun.
IslandWrite will soon be available from Island Graphics (415-491-1000)
for some HP & Apollo platforms.
Interleaf is currently available from Interleaf (800-241-7700,
MA: 617-577-9800) on all Sun and DEC platforms; others are under development.
The Alis office-productivity tool from Applix (1-800-8APPLIX, MA:
508-870-0300) includes a multi-font WYSIWG document composer; for several
systems.
ArborText, Inc. provides an X11 version of its Electronic Publishing
program called "The Publisher". The Publisher is available on Sun, HP and
Apollo workstations. Contact Arbortext at 313-996-3566. [5/90]
Iris Computing Laboratories (615-886-3429) makes the "ie" editor.
BBN/Slate from BBN Software Products includes a menu-driven word
processor with multiple fonts and style sheets. It supports X on
multiple platforms. (617-873-5000 or slate-offer@bbn.com) [11/90]
The powerful "sam" editor by Rob Pike is split into a host portion and
a front-end graphics portion, which now has an X implementation. Sam is
available from the AT&T Toolchest; additional X support is available from Doug
Gwyn (gwyn@brl.mil). [1/91]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 34) Where can I obtain an X-based paint/draw program?
xpic is an object-oriented drawing program. It supports multiple font
styles and sizes and variable line widths; there are no rotations or zooms.
xpic is quite suitable as an interactive front-end to pic, though the
xpic-format produced can be converted into PostScript. (The latest version is
on the R4 contrib tape in clients/xpic.)
xfig is an object-oriented drawing program supporting compound objects.
The text-handling is limited. The xfig-format can be converted in PostScript or
other formats. One version is on the R4 contrib tape in clients/xfig; it is one
of the several 'xfig' programs which several groups independently developed
parallel versions of from the R3 xfig.
idraw 2.5 supports numerous fonts and various line styles and arbitrary
rotations. It supports zoom and scroll and color draws and fills. On the R4
tape; see also interviews-request@interviews.stanford.edu.
[courtesy Jim Helman (jim@kaos.Stanford.EDU) 7/89]
In addition:
dxpaint is a bitmap-oriented drawing program most like MacPaint; it's
good for use by artists but commonly held to be bad for drawing figures or
drafting. dxpaint is part of the Ultrix 3.x release.
FrameMaker has some draw capabilities. [4/90]
ArborText (313-996-3566) offers PubDraw, an X11-based drawing program,
on Sun, HP and Apollo workstations.
BBN/Slate from BBN Software Products includes a full-featured draw and
paint program with object grouping and multiple patterns; multiple X platforms.
(617-873-5000 or slate-offer@bbn.com). [11/90]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 35) Where can I obtain an X-based spreadsheet?
Vendor Product Phone
------ ------- -----
Access Technology 20/20 (508) 655-9191
Informix WingZ (800) 331-1763
Quality Software Products Q-Calc/eXclaim 800-628-3999 (CA:213-410-0303)
Unipress Q-Calc (201) 985-8000
Uniplex Uniplex (214) 717-0068, (800) 356-8063
[above from Walter E. Gillett (gillett@AI.MIT.EDU)]
Digital DECdecision 1-800-DIGITAL
BBN Software Products BBN/Slate 617-873-5000 slate-offer@bbn.com
(the product includes WordProcessing, Spreadsheet, Graphics, Image
Processing, Foreign Language WordProcessing, Electronic Mail, and
Elecronic Conferencing)
AIS's (919-942-7801) XESS spreadsheet for VMS/Ultrix has either DECWindows or
Motif look/feel.
The Alis office-productivity tool from Applix (1-800-8APPLIX, MA: 508-870-0300)
includes a spreadsheet.
There is a spreadsheet program in the Andrew Toolkit on the R4 contrib tape.
Applied Information Systems (Chapel Hill, North Carolina; 1 800 334 5510) will
begin shipping in mid-October an X11/Motif spreadsheet called Xess.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 36)* Where can I get an X-based PostScript previewer?
xps is available from almost everywhere that the X11 contributed source
can be found. The version currently on expo is based on Crispin Goswell's
PostScript interpreter with fixes and speedups by John Myers and Barry Shein
and an X11 driver by Terry Weissman. There are known problems with fonts. The
package is good for lowering the edit-print-edit cycle in experimenting with
particular PostScript effects. [ralpage, also widely available, apparently
shares with xps a common ancestor, and should also be considered.]
Ghostscript is distributed by the Free Software Foundation
(617-876-3296) and includes a PostScript interpreter and a library of graphics
primitives. The README for the widely-distributed version 1.3 points out that
it doesn't take advantage of many of the facilities offered by X but that this
is intended to change in the future; version 2.1 is now available. [1/90]
In addition:
ScriptWorks is Harlequin's software package for previewing and printing
PostScript(R) descriptions of text and graphics images; previewers for X are
available. For information call +44-223-872522 or send email to
scriptworks-request@uk.co.harlqn.
Digital's dxpsview runs on UWS 2.1 and 2.2.
Sun's pageview runs with the X11/NeWS server.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 37) Where can I get an X-based GKS package?
The latest freely-available XGKS can be obtained from
xgks-request@unidata.ucar.edu; this is a 2c implementation derived from the
X11R4 contrib XGKS from IBM and the University of Illinois. Release 2.2
is on unidata.ucar.edu [128.117.140.3] as pub/xgks.tar.Z. [12/90]
In addition, Grafpak-GKS is available from Advanced Technology Center
(714-583-9119).
GKSUL is available from gks@ulowell.edu (ULowell CS department). It is
a 2b implementation which includes drivers for a variety of devices. It can be
passed an X window ID to use. The package includes both C and Fortran bindings.
[11/90; from dsrand@mitre.org and from stew@hanauma.stanford.edu]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 38)+ Where can I get an X-based TeX or DVI previewer?
The xtex package is available from a number of archive sites, including
uunet.
The xdvi package is fairly comprehensive and easy to use. It is also
available from a number of sites, including uunet and expo.lcs.mit.edu.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 39)* Where can I get an X-based troff previewer?
X11R4 has two previewers for device-independent troff: the supported
client xditview, and the contributed-but-well-maintained xtroff. An earlier
version of xtroff also appeared on the R3 contributed source.
In addition, the xman client can be used to preview troff documents
using the -man macros.
In addition:
xproof, an X previewer for ditroff has been contributed by Marvin
Solomon (solomon@cs.wisc.edu); version 3.5 is available on expo in
contrib/xproof*. [8/90]
Elan Computer Group (CA: 415-964-2200) produces eroff, a modified
troff implementation, and Elan/Express, an X11 eroff previewer.
SoftQuad (416-963-8337; USA only 800-387-2777, mail@sq.uu.net or
mail@sq.com) offers SoftQuad Publishing Software, including a substantially-
rewritten troff formatter, a better intermediate language with backwards
compatibility, and an X11[R3,R4] previewer. (This is the package adopted by
AT&T's own MIS department, and used in and re-sold by many parts of AT&T).
[information from Ian Darwin, SoftQuad (ian@sq.com) 3/90]
Image Network (1-800-TOXROFF; CA: 415-967-0542) offers the Xroff
package, which includes a fine modified troff implementation and a set of
X11-based page previewers. (This is the package OEM'ed by several hardware
vendors.)
[mostly courtesy moraes@cs.toronto.edu (Mark Moraes)] [2/90]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 40)* Where can I obtain a WYSIWYG interface builder?
Preliminary verions of the Xt application builder DIRT by Richard
Hesketh are available on expo.lcs.mit.edu (18.30.0.212) as contrib/dirt*. Dirt
requires X11R4 through patch 18. From the README:
This builder allows the interactive creation and rapid prototyping of X user
interfaces using the X Toolkit and a number of Widget Sets. Dirt generates
"Wc - Widget Creation" resource files and this distribution also includes the
Widget Creation Library (version 1.04, with the exception of the demos and
Mri/Ari source code) with the kind permission of its author David E. Smyth.
In addition, these commercial products (unsorted) are available in
final or prerelease form [the * following the product name indicates that the
product is known to allow the designer to specify for each widget whether a
particular resource is hard-coded or written to an application defaults file,
for at least one form of output]. Some are much more than user-interface tools;
some are full user interface management systems:
Product Name Look/Feel Code Output Vendor
HP Interface Motif 1.0 C(Xm) HP/Visual Edge
Architect/ UIMX
Open Look Express Open Look C(Xol+ helper lib) AT&T/Visual Edge
UIMX [Sun version] Motif 1.0 C(Xm+ helper lib) Quest
(408-988-8880)
Visual Edge
514-332-6430
VUIT 1.0 Motif 1.1 UIL[r/w] DEC
(1-800-DIGITAL)
X-Designer 1.1 Motif 1.0 C(Xm); C/UIL Imperial
Software
Technology, Ltd
(+44 734 587055)
sales@ist.co.uk
XFaceMaker2 (XFM2) * Motif 1.0 C;C/script (C-like procedural language)
NSL
(33 1 43 36 77 50)
requests@nsl.fr
Builder Xcessory 1.0 * Motif 1.0 C(Xm); C/UIL[r/w] ICS
(617-547-0510)
info@ics.com
XBUILD 1.1 * Motif 1.0 C(Xm); C/UIL Nixdorf
(617-864-0066)
xbuild@nixdorf.com
TeleUSE 1.1 Motif 1.0 PCD (like UIL);C + helper lib
Telesoft
(619-457-2700)
ezX Motif 1.0 C(Xm +helper lib) Sunrise
(401-847-7888)
/dev/GUIDE Open Look GIL [-> XView] Sun
ExoCode/SXM Motif C(Xm) Expert Object
ExoCode/Plus OpenLook XView 708-676-5555
TAE+ Xw;Motif C(Xw,Xm); C/TCL (TAE Control Language,
like UIL[needs helper library]);
VAX Fortran; Ada
Nasa Goddard
(301) 286-6034
PSM PM, MSW 3.0, C/UIL LanCorp
Motif 1.0.3,Mac Technologies
+61 3 606 3801
(Australia)
[Future versions of this table may include information on the meta-file format
used and will probably be more specific about the portability and completeness
of output code and will probably look more like a Consumer Reports summary of
features.]
In addition, these non-WYSIWYG but related products may help for goals
of rapid prototyping of the application interface:
WCL: the Widget Creation Library. Basically describes the widget
hierarchy and actions in a resources file; available from fine archive servers
everywhere, including devvax.jpl.nasa.gov (128.149.1.143) in pub/.
WINTERP: an Xlisp-based Motif toolkit allows for interpretive
programming. The copy on the R4 tape is outdated; get a copy off expo or email
to winterp-source%hplnpm@hplabs.hp.com.
In addition, these products may help for similar goals:
The Serpent UIMS permits the building of user-interfaces without
specific knowledge of coding but with an understanding of attributes being set
on a particular [Motif] widget. More information is available from Erik Hardy
(erik@sei.cmu.edu)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 41)* Where can I find X tools callable from shell scripts?
I want to have a shell script pop up menus and yes/no dialog boxes if the user
is running X.
Several tools in the R3 contrib/ area were developed to satisfy these
needs: yorn pops up a yes/no box, xmessage displays a string, etc. There are
several versions of these tools; few, if any, have made it to the R4 contrib/
area, though they may still be available on various archive sites.
In addition, Richard Hesketh (rlh2@ukc.ac.uk) has posted the xmenu
package to comp.sources.x ("v08i008: xmenu") for 1-of-n choices.
[7/90]
Two versions of XPrompt have been posted to comp.sources.x, the latter
being an unauthorized improvement. ["Gilligan", thoth@reef.cis.ufl.edu, 1/91]
There is a version of XMenu available from comp.sources.x; the most
recent version is being developed by brachman@cs.ubc.ca. ["Gilligan",
thoth@reef.cis.ufl.edu, 1/91]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 42)+ Where can I get an X-based debugger?
xdbx, an X interface to the dbx debugger, is available via ftp from
expo. The current [1/91] version is 2.1 patchlevel 2.
An X interface to gdb is also available, from ???
Also:
MIPS produces a highly-customizable (WCL-based) Visual Debugger.
You should be able to use Sun's dbxtool with its X11/NeWS server.
The Saber-C (617-876-7636) source-level debugger includes an X-based
version.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 43)+ How can I display an X program identically on several displays?
There are several protocol multiplexer tools which provide for the
simultaneous display of X clients on any number of machines.
XMX (an X Protocol Multiplexor) is available from wilma.cs.brown.edu
(128.148.31.66) as pub/xmx.tar.Z
SHX also does this. Available from ***.
XTrap is implemented as a server/library extension. It is available as:
gatekeeper.dec.com pub/X11/contrib/XTrap_v31.tar.Z
expo.lcs.mit.edu contrib/XTrap_v31.tar.Z
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 44) TOPIC: BUILDING THE X DISTRIBUTION
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 45) How do I build X with gcc?
MIT is now using regularly the Free Software Foundation's
GNU-CC to build the X distribution and uses gcc-built servers to test
performance increases.
[These options are gathered from several descriptions of building
X with gcc 1.34, 1.35, and 1.36]:
Use the options
-O -fstrength-reduce -fpcc-struct-return
-traditional may also be necessary if your version of
gcc is sufficiently old.
Do not use -finline-functions, particularly on the R4 server.
---> Make sure to run 'fixincludes' from the gcc distribution
---> before doing anything, or you will get fatal errors such as:
---> xterm: Error 15, errno 25: Inappropriate ioctl for device.
HOWEVER, there is a bug in gcc 1.34 and 1.36 (but not in 1.35 or 1.37) which
miscompiles things of the form (expr == 0 ? exp1 : exp2). The fix needed in
X11R4 (and probably X11R3) is to change the definition of XtNewString in
Intrinsic.h to:
#define XtNewString(str) \
((str) != NULL ? (strcpy(XtMalloc((unsigned)strlen(str) + 1), str)) : NULL)
A work-around is also in fix-2 to X11R4.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 46) Why can't gcc compile X11R4 on my SPARC?
I used gcc to compile the whole distribution, but I get several segmentation
faults when running X.
Note first that gcc on RISC machines does not necessarily result in
any performance increase; it certainly is not as noticeable as it is on the
680x0 or VAX platforms.
Here is the problem: gcc and cc use incompatible methods of passing
structures as arguments and returning them as function values, so when
gcc-compiled parts of X are linked with Sun-supplied functions that pass or
return structs, run-time errors occur. Affected programs include rgb and
the server.
This is from the GCC manual:
On the Sparc, GNU CC uses an incompatible calling convention for
structures. It passes them by including their contents in the argument
list, whereas the standard compiler passes them effectively by
reference.
This really ought to be fixed, but such calling conventions are not yet
supported in GNU CC, so it isn't straightforward to fix it.
The convention for structure returning is also incompatible, and
`-fpcc-struct-return' does not help.
You can duck the problem either by using cc throughout or by using it for just
the routines which cause incompatibilities; the problem cannot be solved with
compilation flags.
Files which need to be compiled using cc include:
server/os/4.2bsd/oscolor.c
rgb/rgb.c
In addition, several of the "init_" functions use structs as args or
return values:
clients/xhost/xhost.c
clients/xauth/gethost.c.
Calls to inet_addr in /lib/CLX/socket.c and lib/X/XConnDis.c are possibly
harmless as they don't involve structs.
[collected by bashford@scripps.edu (Don Bashford); 8/90]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Subject: 47)* What are these I/O errors running X built with gcc?
When I try to run xinit or the Xsun server I get the error
"Getting interface configuration: Operation not supported on socket.
Fatal server bug! no screens found."
Running the gcc fixincludes script apparently didn't work. You can do
this simple test:
#include <sys/ioctl.h>
SIOCGIFCONF
Run that through cc -E and gcc -E. The last line of output is the piece of
interest; it should be identical (modulo irrelevant differences like
whitespace). If the gcc version has 'x' where the cc version has 'i', your
fixincludes run didn't work for some reason or other; go back to your gcc
sources and run `fixincludes`; then rebuild the X distribution. If they are
identical, try running a make clean in mit/server and rebuilding, just to make
sure everything gets compiled with the proper include files.
[courtesy der Mouse, mouse@LARRY.MCRCIM.MCGILL.EDU; 9/90]
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--
The X User's Group xug@expo.lcs.mit.edu +1 617 547 0634
"No, I'm a member of the X User's Group, not the Ex-User's Group."abm@alan.aux.apple.com (Alan Mimms) (02/01/91)
|> Apple's MacX runs on MacPlus or newer machines with >= 2MB of memory |>and system software 6.0.4 or later. It is an "X11R3.5" server that includes |>support for an optional built-in ICCCM-compliant window manager, X11R4 fonts |>and colors, a built-in BDF font compiler, and built-in standard colormaps, |>andit supports the X11R4 notion "all visuals that make sense" for color |>displays. |>Version 1.0 started shipping at the end of May. Versions 1.1 is shipping |>now. [1/91] Yes it has, and the "X11R3.5" stuff above is now no longer true: MacX 1.1 is fully X11R4-based. It now supports full ICCCM-compatible cut and paste of text AND graphics between the Macintosh and X11 worlds, contains support for the SHAPE extension (including SHAPEd windows on the Macintosh desktop), and is between two and three times faster for most color operations than MacX 1.0. If you're interested in details, send me e-mail. -- Alan Mimms (alan@apple.com, ...!apple!alan) | My opinions are generally A/UX X group | pretty worthless, but Apple Computer | they *are* my own... "Laugha whila you can, monkey boy..." -- John Whorfin in Buckaroo Banzai "Never rub another man's rhubarb" -- The Joker in BatMan