Date: 12-09-88(20:04)Number: 1 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: SYSOP Read: (N/A) Subj: WELCOME! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE To begin this conference, we've transferred the message files from the old Wildcat! system to the conference area. Hopefully, we managed to successfully recreate the old message base and threads. Many of the messages previously lost during the Wildcat systems message corruption episode have been restored. Quite a few messages were so utterly damaged that it was impossible to place them on the new system. If you entered a message between December 1 -- December 8 and you cannot find it on the system, the message was probably one of the fatalities. If anyone has a scan file or printout of the message base during this time period, we would sure like to have it. The moderator for the Ventura Publisher Conference is Gene Rodrigues. New users should read the bulletins and fill in the script questionnaire from the Main menu. Those users who are not familiar with the operation of PCBoard will find on-line tutorials available in the NEWUSER conference. A User's Guide and Reference Guide formatted with Ventura Publisher are available. To get both guides, download the files PACKET1.ARC and PACKET2.ARC from the Main Board menu or the NEWUSER Conference area. NOTE: PCBoard is a multi-node system. You can communicate with users logged on other nodes using the CHAT option from any of the Conference menus. A disadvantage of this system is that the Sysop may not be available for paging. Always check Chat mode to determine if the Sysop is online using the Maintenance terminal. You can Chat with the Sysop if the terminal is operational. If you're interested in joining other conferences on the FORUM, be sure to fill in the Script Questionnaire for each conference. The Conference Moderator needs this information to update you user's file accordingly. ...Gene Date: 12-10-88 (14:27) Number: 2 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: OKIDATA LASER PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE We are attempting to find users who own Okidata Laser Printers. Several users are having problems printing in high resolution mode. Please leave a message for Gene Rodrigues if you use the Oki along with a voice telephone number. Date: 12-10-88 (14:31) Number: 3 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TODD LEONARD Read: (N/A) Subj: U/D Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello. I've tried downloading a file from the file menu using Procomm. Although I tried nearly every combination of protocols, I had no luck. The most promising seems to be XMODEM, or XMODEM CRC, but I get the response "Timeout on your end." every time. Anyone else have similar difficulties? Any solutions? Date: 12-10-88 (14:35) Number: 4 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: VERSION 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Be sure to select the NEWSLETTER option form the MAIN Menu to read Xerox Corporation's official press release revealing the existance of Version 2 and two additional products -- the Professional Extension and the Net Server. Users can also download the file VP20.ARC for a full listing of all features in the new release and companion products. The publication is formatted with Ventura Publisher. Date: 12-10-88 (14:37) Number: 5 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BENET WILSON Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: VPUG USER GROUP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'm interested in forming a user group in Washington, D.C. Anyone interested can call Benet Wilson at 202-785-3345. Date: 12-10-88 (14:43) Number: 6 To: BENET WILSON Refer#: 6 From: CARROLL BAKER Read: YES Subj: VPUG USER GROUP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Benet, glad to hear you're interested in getting a user group going in the Washington, D.C. area. Please, let's try to connect by telephone soon to discuss how we can be of assistance to you. I can be reached at (408) 224-8456. At present, I do not have a modem. I've jotted down your number too, and will try to call if I can put my red pen down long enough...we're trying to get a couple of issue of the magazine put to bed. Looking forward to talking to you. By the way, we also encourage "audience participation"...either letters, Q & A, or short tips and tricks and articles or ideas for same. How about a little help from the field? ...Carroll Baker Date: 12-10-88 (14:47) Number: 7 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BENET WILSON Read: (N/A) Subj: NATL. ASSN. OF DESKTOP PU Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am interested in hearing from anyone who is a member of the National Association of Desktop Publishers. I am considering joining it and I'd like some information from a current member. What services are offered, how often are meetings held, has the mebership been beneficial to you? My name is Benet Wilson and I can be reached at 202-785-3345. Date: 12-10-88 (14:51) Number: 8 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MIDGE STOCKER Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am working with a LaserMaster CAPCard and am interested in trading tips/info with other CAPCard users. I run an HP Series II with the CAPCard and also share chapter files with a system that runs a Varityper. It's been fun and trying. I love the product -- and unsolicited testimonial! Date: 12-10-88 (14:54) Number: 9 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RITCHIE KOLNOS Read: (N/A) Subj: ARC FILES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE This may sound like a stupid question, but I am new to the BBS scene. When I download an ARC file, do I also need some utility to "unpack" it? Thanks for your help. Date: 12-10-88 (14:59) Number: 10 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ROBERT WARNKE Read: (N/A) Subj: ENTERPRISE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have been a member of the VPUG since the third issue of the newsletter. I must say I am very happy to see the bulletin board in full swing. One suggestion I have for the magazine and the bulletin board is the encouragement of articles and information on marketing oneself. Information and items related to home industries doing such with VP. Thanks and keep up the good work! RGW cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-10-88 (15:01) Number: 11 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: BENET WILSON Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene...this is Benet. How do I save things that I see on the screen onto my floppy disk? Can I also get my printer to print the material as it crosses the screen. Thanks for the help. Date: 12-10-88 (15:05) Number: 12 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RITCHIE KOLNOS Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: VENTURA W/ LINOTRONIC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Our company will soon be purchasing a Linotronic 200 to produce our technical documentation. We will be using the printer with Ventura. The salesman told us their would be no problems when downloading files, but I was wondering if anyone has had experience using a Linotronic with Ventura. Any comments would be appreciated. Date: 12-10-88 (15:10) Number: 13 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: STEPHANIE KELLY Read: (N/A) Subj: IMPORTING LOTUS .PRN FILE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am new to this board so I am not sure if this is the right place to post this message, but here goes. I am interested in bringing a lotus.prn file into Ventura and maintaining the columns. I tried bringing it in as a Wordstar or XyWrite file but I still have lots of nobreak spaces. I have heard of VP/TABS but has anybody used it? Does it work? Finally, are there any other things I can try before buying the package. Any suggestions are appreciated! Thanks! Date: 12-10-88 (15:13) Number: 14 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BENET WILSON Read: (N/A) Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene...this is Benet again. I got your message on printing and that seems to work pretty well. Now I need to know how to put things I pick up on the system onto my floppy disk. This computer stuff is new to me, so please give me "idiot instructions". Thanks for all your help so far, it is greatly appreciated. I also think that this bulletin board is great! Date: 12-10-88 (15:49) Number: 15 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BOB LEVINE Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: TO: CARROLL BAKER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE From: Bob Levine, Princeton Technical Publishers You may remeber that we met at your offices in July. I promised you a sort piece on how to do equations in Ventura which I will send you real soon. In the meantime, I thought you might like to read a short piece I have sent to the NYPC Newsletter (membership about 3000). I write a column for them. If you or Bob have any comments on this I'd love to hear them. Regards Bob Levine COPY To: Merv Adrian, Editor NYPC Newsletter From: Bob Levine Date: September 16, 1988 Subject: Probelms with Ventura Publisher 1.1, Patch 2. This is a short article I promised on problems with Ventura Publisher. Copy follows: ===================================================================== Problems with Ventura 1.1, Patch 2 by Bob Levine Users of Ventura Publisher version 1.1 who have received or are comtemplating asking for the new patch #2 should be aware of some of the consequences of using the new patch. Patch #2 contains the following new features: The program can now be run from Microsoft Windows Executive. MicroSoft Windows clipboard Metafiles saved on disk can be loaded into the program. HP LaserJet Fonts can be stored in any subdirectory. Also the LaserJet can print closer to the edge of the paper. Additional characters not included in the 128 ASCII set can now be converted. Graphics conversions has been enhanced. There are still some problems with Lotus Freelance, Macintosh PICT files and HPGL files. More important, there are serious problems with frames containing IMG files. In the new upgrade, support for some of the formats in WordPerfect 4.2 has been dropped. According to the instructions which came with the patch, one of the "improvements" was that the program no longer recognized subscript and superscript commands from WordPerfect. If you use these commands and expect Ventura to recognize them, it no longer will do so. You now have to use the Ventura and <^> commands. You should be able to do a search and relace in WordPerfect to accomplish this. This is documented in WordPerfect. If you have special fonts loaded, the reinstallation will wipe them out and they will have to be reloaded. Also you will have to reset all your defaults set in the OPTIONS pull-down menu, especially the printer setting defaults such as your font suffix (EGA or PSF), printer, output.wid and all of the other defults you had to setup. (You do remeber what they all were, don't you?) So be sure to view all the options menus before you apply the patch, and make notes of the values to use. However the problems caused by the upgrades to the graphics conversion I found more serious. In all the frames in which you have loaded *.PCX images and which Ventura converted to *.IMG images, the *.IMG files now will not load. In the new patch, Ventura "improved" the conversion routine to make them print with higher resolution. They did not provide a conversion utility nor did they document this drastic change. As a consequence, you will have to reload all of the .PCX images, which Ventura will then convert to the new style *.IMG files. Unforntunately there is no way to distinquish between the new *.IMG files and the older files except by attempting to load them into a frame in the Patch # 2 program. When you try to load an old *.IMG you will either be booted back to DOS or your computer will hangup. These newly converted *.IMG files are then loaded into your frames using the GEM/HALOI selection rather than the PAINTBRUSH selection as before. If you have documents having a lot of converted *.PCX files, you may want to retain the #1 patched version. At least you should save all the chapter files containing the old *.IMG files and carefully mark them so that you will not try to load them with the Patch #2 program. The procedures I used was to be sure all of the underlying *.PCX files were intect in their own sub-directory. I then went into each chapter file containing *.IMG files and erased them. This ensured that the patched program did not confuse the new *.IMG files created with Patch #2 with the old ones. I copied all of the original *.PCX files into their respective chapters. I then went into Ventura, reset all of the (CONTINUED IN NEXT MESSAGE) Date: 12-10-88 (15:57) Number: 16 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BOB LEVINE Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: BOB LEVINE, CONTINUED Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I then went into Ventura, reset all of the defaults in the Options menu, and went into the File Menu, and selected LOAD TEXT/PICTURE, PAINTBRUSH, SEVERAL. I then loaded all of the *.PCX files which Ventura now converted into new style IMG files. You must load all of the *.IMG files into your chapter and must do so using the GEM/HALO selection, not PAINTBRUSH as you did previously. Check the file window to be sure all of the *.IMG files are now in the chapter and then proceed to place them in their appropriate frames. Since there is virtually nothing in the reviced manual about this, you will have to call Ventura Publisher telephone support to clear it up after the newly patched Ventura bombs. (You have registered for telephone support and paid Xerox $150.00, haven't you?) Once you have replaced all of your *.PCX files, be sure you check their location to be sure that they are all in their right place. I had to reload almost one hundred *.PCX files in a techincal book -- GRRR! ************************************************************************ Date: 12-10-88 (16:00) Number: 17 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: BOB LEVINE Read: YES Subj: COMMENTS TO SYSOP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am a member of VPUG registered a s Robert J. Levine. Princeton Technical Publishers Suite 298, 301 N. Harrison St. Princeton, New Jersey 08540 Tel (1609)924-6428 Please upgrade my BBS mebership Date: 12-11-88 (01:29) Number: 18 To: BOB LEVINE Refer#: 17 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: BOB LEVINE, CONTINUED Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I experienced a similar problem with patch 2. The most difficult aspect of the IMG file conversion change may be the work habits of many users. I have been creatin image files and scanning photographs for documentation in PCX format, then loading these into Ventura Publisher. If I see no need for the original PCX files, I load the IMG files instead and remove the PCX files from my disk. This saves considerable disk space since Ventura Publisher versions prior ro 2.0 always made IMG files for display on the screen. By loading these files in directly (IMG files) and deleting the PCX files, you can regain 50% of the disk space Ventura requires for every image in the publication. Hopefully, everyone has been saving their PCX files after loading the IMG files. If you use the PCX files as an intermediate format and delete them after creating the IMG files, you may have to redo your work all over again. I spent an entire weekend not too long ago reloading PCX files for a publication with 500 images. The omission of documentation describing the problem could lead many users down the same path. However, I don't believe that Ventura is at fault for the problem. Since Ventura Publisher is GEM based, some blame must also be pointed to Digital Research, Inc. It is their environment (GEM) which determines the format of the IMG files. As newer versions of GEM are released, Ventura must update to keep pace. It is highly likely that they were unaware of the change to the IMG file format. On your note about WordPerfect 4.2 support, several users have called in and complained about it too. Version 2.0 may return the support for subscripts and superscripts, but I'm not sure since the magazine has not had the time to check this feature yet. Support is provided for Version 5.0 of WordPerfect though. It is interesting to note that 99% of the problems you mention in your message are documented in my copy of Patch 2. Could multiple versions exist? Xerox says No! However, I suspect a rotten apple in the patch of disks created or some duplication problem. I have here two sets of disks with similar labels, both indicating they are patch 2 and one has even more serious problems. Several beta test copies of Patch 2 were released to test sites before the general user community received the official release. Some of these betas had pretty nasty side efects and bugs. Odds are that if you do not have the documentation, including all the problems you have mentioned (IMG file conversion is an exception), your copy may be one of these mavericks. If so, please give VPUG a voice call. ...Gene Date: 12-11-88 (01:34) Number: 19 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: SHARING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Mr. Levine's message pointed out problems with patch 2. Lets use this message as a general discussion topic for September. Sharing is letting other users in on your problems and experiences. Please report all problems you are experiencing with Patch 2. We'll extract all the messages from the Forum and use them to create a Q&A section for the magazine. Report all your experiences, even the ones you assume to be hardware related. Date: 12-11-88 (01:40) Number: 20 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: RON LAFON Read: YES Subj: NPE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene. Sorry I was unable to track you down at Seybold. Thanks very much for your kind comments on my WP50 editorial for the NPE Monthly. I look forward to meeting you one of these days and to a productive association with you, your organization and this great BBS. Take Care... ...Ron LaFon Desktop Publishing Conference Moderator The Other Woman BBS Member of the National Publisher's Exchange Data: 707-938-3508 Rob Thomas, Sysop Date: 12-11-88 (01:44) Number: 21 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: GARY WILKERSON Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am the Sysop for the Engineers' and Architects Information Network in Atlanta, GA at 404-368-5058. We don't have a DTP conference per se but we do have quite a collection of DTP and graphic files oriented to the technical user. Give us a call. Date: 12-11-88 (01:48) Number: 22 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: RICHARD PRESTWOOD Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene...neither PACKET1.ARC or PACKET2.ARC are in the files area. I left my name and adress at the VPUG meeting at the Convention Center las Wednesday for additional information about VPUG to be sent to me: I'm looking forward to receiving it. I'll await its arrival to subscribe. ...Richard Date: 12-11-88 (01:52) Number: 23 To: RICHARD PRESTWOOD Refer#: 23 From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: PACKET1 & PACKET2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The two files, PACKET1.ARC and PACKET2.ARC, have been removed from the system. The original files were written for the RBBS system the Forum used originally. A new set of files must be written for the Wildcat system. Also, considerable software changes are on the way. It is highly likely that the Wildcat BBS will only be a temporary solution to our needs. Yes, we are are shopping for a more powerful bulletin board system. Date: 12-11-88 (02:05) Number: 24 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE That is interesting about you joining up with Ed Aborn. Used to visit his board when it was the EPE. His newsletters in Ventura format were great! Don't PCP it yet, but am researching. Could no longer afford long distance calls. The best DTP board has been Cooperworks in Madison, WI, but that is not Pursuitable. I am curious about the Houston board. There is an unofficial VPUGH board in Houston run by Carroll Hanks (713-448-1406) and it really is good. Carroll is a Xerox trainer. He has just switched to a DTP board, so it may take a little while. Will see him tonight at the VPUGH meeting. It is really just getting organized. Went to the Xerox Dealers only PREVIEW of VENTURA 2 last night (yeah, I managed to wrangle an invitation, but I'm not a dealer). Xerox is going to have a coupon deal to allow customers to buy Ventura for $395 and the Professional Extension for $395. I think that registered users will ge thte Professional Extension for $200 with a coupon when they upgrade. The discount will come from a lower distributor price and some dealers were a bit resistant as they feared a little distributor "gouging". Be interesting to see if it works. Idea is to move a lot of copies of Version 2.0 quickly. Hopefully, this will increase "word of mouth" on Ventura 2 and hit olde PageMaker a good one. Chris Date: 12-11-88 (02:08) Number: 25 To: MIDGE STOCKER Refer#: 9 From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Is there anywhere (mail order) that has a decent price on the LaserMaster CapCard. I talked to them yesterday and they are trying to remove it from al but "authorized distributors" who must charge list price. I would like to try it but cannot afford list price. Chris Date: 12-11-88 (02:14) Number: 26 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: BILL AUCLAIR Read: NO Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, If you ever decide to join FidoNet, let me know. I'd be interested in carrying an echomail conference specific to Ventura Publisher, and you might as well be the source for that feed. If you do join the Matrix, crash some mail to me at Matrix # 1:141/545. I think a nationwide user conference dealing with VP would be very interesting, and extremely helpful not only to business but to home users as well. (I myself fit into both of these categories). If you want more infromation avout the Matrix and obtaining a node number to go national, let me know. --Bill Auclair Date: 12-11-88 (02:22) Number: 27 To: BILL AUCLAIR Refer#: 27 From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bill...it's good to here from you. I've spotted your name on the echos quite a bit. I just downloaded all the software required to configure the Forum for Netmail and Echomail. It will officially go on line when our new software is installed. The system is currently operating in the background and undergoing testing. The Node number is 1:143/25. I've been having a difficult time getting specific information about starting a Fido echo and would welcome any help or text files you have which might help me out. My requests for information to the local Echo host has fallen on deaf ears. I send messages and know that he gets them , but he never replies. I've been polling other Sysops to see if there is an interest in starting a Ventura Publisher specific conference. I've received nothing but positive answers so far. Ventura is complex enough to deserve it. I would like to know your views on this concept. ...Gene Date: 12-11-88 (02:26) Number: 28 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JOHN GRANT Read: NO Subj: HELLO! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Just thought I'd drop a line to let you know that you have a brand new nouveau-BBSer -- me! I haven't a clue about what I'm doing or should be doing -- any hints you'd like to drop? I will probably be logging on a couple times a week. Are there any on-line conferences or anything like that which I should know about? Regards, jg Date: 12-11-88 (02:28) Number: 29 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: GERALD WILEY Read: NO Subj: UPGRADE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, Thanks. This looks like a very professional board. I just recently purchased VP 1.1 for my business and am trying to get used to it. I try to look for hints and tips on boards like yours. Thanks again...Gerry Date: 12-11-88 (02:56) Number: 30 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: SYSOP Read: (N/A) Subj: ACCESS RIGHTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Several users have asked for an explanation of the "Security" field listed in their user record. You can view your user record using the "V", View Settings option on the Main menu and write changes to the file using the "W" command. The security codes have the following meaning: Code Meaning: 5 User who refused to fill in the New User Questionnaire when first logging into the Forum. This user can log on to the system and access the Main menu. The only available command is Goodbye. A user who feels they have received this security clearance in error must call 408-227-5030 and leave a voice message for the sysop. 10 New users receive a security classification of 10 when they first log into the system. After thier New User Questionnaire information is validated, their access rights are increased to 20, 30 or 40 depending on their subscription. 20 Public users who do not subscribe to Ventura Professional! magazine, the official publication of VPUG are assigned this classification level. Access to certain parts of the Forum are limited or prohibited. 30 Subscribers to Ventura Professional! magazine are members of the National VPUG Group. The subscription to the magazine has nothing to do with local fees imposed by Chapters in the VPUG organization. Subscribers have 120 minutes of access time per day and the right to call additional telephone lines reserved for VPUG members. 40 Users granted this security have subscribed to the Extended Support Service. The $50.00 yearly fee for extended support entitles the user to access private lines which automatically dial down to all other telephone lines on the system. They also have access to the magazines private clipart library of illustrations used in the magazine and other file areas. All funds acquired by the sale of Extended Support Service are used to pay costs for running the Forum. The Forum receives no other income at this time. 50 Visiting Sysop. Access rights to the untested files in the upload areas. 60 Conference Moderators. Moderators are essentially granted partial Sysop rights to maintain the conference area under their control. Additional security numbers may be assigned which fall in between the values shown above. These are granted temporarily by the Sysop or maybe assigned to a special group of users who are performing some special work for VPUG or the Forum. Call 408-227-5030 and leave a voice message for the Sysop if you require additional information about the security clearances. Users who are calling the Forum using the subscription for their company must send a letter on company stationary with the names of those individuals authorized to use the Forum. Note that only one user record is allowed per subscription. Date: 12-11-88 (03:04) Number: 31 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: GARY WILKERSON Read: NO Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE We are a PCBoard system as is the new board I'm putting up. Rock n' Roll Atlanta seems only interested in handling messages and does not support files or other support activities. I'm quite familiar with Atlanta VPUG and intend to spend quite a bit of time with them in the next few months. Carol Lovelady is the new president and has gotten things rolling quite nicely. My VPUG subscription is in the Company name, Abrams and Associates and yes, I would like visiting sysop privileges. Look forward to working with you. Have got the new board in test mode and should be ready to go in several weeks. Date: 12-11-88 (03:13) Number: 32 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: FREEMAN BRADFORD Read: NO Subj: UPLOAD OF ARC0901.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene...you might want to read over the stuff in ARC0901.ARC. One of the users on my board uploaded it and it gives some of the details on the spate between Phil Katz of PKARC fame and SEA. Also, as a matter of interest, I got my first virus via a copy of PKARC which one of my former users uploaded...it was a nasty one and wiped out my AT clone's setup in MOS memory. I finally had to copy all of my files off the disk, prep it and reload. A real time eating operation. It look like this version of the board is a real winner! My interest in Ventura went up several notches (orders of magnitude) as I now have a client who insists I use Ventura to produce some brochures for him. I appreciate both the meetings and this board as a forum and anticipate using both to get over the white-knuckle stage of making the transition from my old tried-and-true Spellbinder DTP with its command driven structure to running through menus with a rodent. Progress... Brad Date: 12-11-88 (03:52) Number: 33 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene...Thanks for the very informative answer on the LaserMaster CapCard. You mentioned Daniel Will-Harris. Does he write for Personal Publishing magazine. If so, he and that magazine are on my hit list. They had a blurb on a software PostScript Emulator called GoScript and promised a full review in October issue and it wasn't there nor was there an apology as far as I can tell. I'm going to call them next week when I get a chance. I have the program, by the way, and it works. Of course, speed is a problem, but I have been doing rotated text, unlimited size text and printing EPS art files up a storm on my HP LaserJet. I don't do publishing for a living, so I can't afford to wait. Am keenly interested in another PostScript emulator called Fredom of Press. It has all 35 typefaces that the LaserWriter Plus has. GoScript only has 13 typefaces. This one retails for $495.00 and even their price to dealers is lousy unless they buy a ton of copies. GoScript was only $195.00. I'm going to explore these routes before I go jumping into the CAPCard, but I got their brochure and it is very impressive. These software PostScript emulators are a new idea and I was pretty impressed that they work. I printed the 20 page Xerox press release on Ventura 2.0 with it. It tokk almost 3 hours though, but my parallel port is giving me trouble. Wasn't all the fault of GoScript. Also have seen the final version of 2.o this week -- once at a dealer introduction show and once at a dealer seminar by a Xerox rep. That $500 OFF Xerox Coupon promotion wasn't too well thought through, I'm afraid. The dealers are supposed to sell it for $395, but they don't know exactly what their distributor is going to charge until they give them the coupon (at least on first redemptions). Some dealers are afraid that the distributors are going to "gig" them and their profit margin will be less than Xerox is "estimating" it should be based on thier price to the distributors. I don't know if you concern yourself with the business side, but I like to keep up although I am not a dealer. I was hoping this promotion would sell a lot of copies and hit Pagemaker a rela lick. Am sooooo tired of hearing about PageMaker. I don't really know anyone who uses it. Enuf chatter...Chris Date: 12-11-88 (03:55) Number: 34 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: FREEMAN BRADFORD Read: NO Subj: UPLOAD OF ARC0901.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks...I plan on being there. It will prbably take a little time before I know enough about Ventura to know the problems I really have. If you would like, you might want to leave a message on the Desktop Publisher regarding the Forum. I have been referring people to your board when they ask Ventura-specific questions. Brad. Date: 12-11-88 (04:31) Number: 35 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: STEVE RINDSBERG Read: NO Subj: UPLOAD OF ENCAPS.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have uploaded ENCAPS.ARC, which contains the ENCAPS.COM (the executable file), ENCAPS.PAS (Turbo Pascal source code to same), and ENCAPS.DOC (documentation file). As noted in the DOC file, this is a program I've developed strictly to meet my own limited needs...converting existing Zenographics Mirage images to EPS for use in Ventura. You have my permission and blessing to distribute the program in any way you see fit, so long as it is not done commercially. (i.e. no charge for the program). The files included in the archive must be distributed with the package. I apply the following conditions (which are nothing out of the ordinary in any case) for several reasons: 1) This is by no means commercial grade software. It does what it purports to do, but it lacks any attempt at elegance, and there are few (if any) safegaurds you would expect of a program you paid for. This is explained in greater length in the DOC file. Hence, I insist that the DOC file remains a part of the package. 2) Any "real" programmer can probably take what I've done and improve it many times over, make it more generally useful, etc. I hope this will happen, so I must insist that the source code remian in the package. 3) Finally, you will note that my address/phone number and other vital statistics do not appear in the program. Frankly, getting credit for what's been done so far doesn't worry me. The rpgram does what I want it to do, so I'm happy. If it helps someone else, I'm happier, but I'll look for fame and fortune elsewhere. At the same time and for the same reasons, I have no intent of supporting the program, nor will I resond to requests at home or at work for assistance in doing the same. (grouchy SOB isn't he?) Anyone who wants to make changes to the program is welcome to (and in fact encouraged to do so), but they should expect to do their home work ...learning programming, read the Adobe documents, write Adobe for the somewhat cryptic flyer on EPSF, and look at lots of PS output from Corel, Ventura and other programs that support EPS. It's heavy slogging, but that's life. (C'mon, Steve, lighten UP!!) OK. I'm really not the meanie that this makes me sound. I just want to make my intentions clear. The program isn't hard to use, you just have to be a bit careful. And it DOES offer a lot of benefits to antone using Mirage to create images for VP. If you need an explanation of why you would want to do this, leave a message here on the BBS. I'm not an expert at this, but have come to some conclusions that might be of interest to some of your readers. Signing off now, but will be back soon. This looks like a very professionally implemented BBS. Nice work! ...Steve Date: 12-11-88 (05:07) Number: 36 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: YES Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE You would have to mention WP5. I am a WordPerfect hater, Never will understand why folks like it. One reason is I use an original version AT keyboard on my clone as I prefer my function keys on the left and not on the top of the keyboard. With WP, my fingers stayed scrunched up between ALT, CTRL, SHIFT and the function keys. I started out with WordStar, of course, but generally use PFS Professional Write 2 for small stuff. Tried them all but XYWrite and PFS is adequate for text input and handles downloading laser fonts (o.k. I had to get hold of real HP soft fonts eventually) real well. Chris Date: 12-11-88 (05:13) Number: 37 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: VP ECHO Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks...the VP Echo sounds interesting. I actually know alittle about that because because modeming around Houston is enough for me. This board, CooperWorks, and Z-Softs ZBBS are about it for me. By the way, is there a new user file I should download? Been trying to find tons of messages to read besides mine and yours and so far I've failed utterly. Tried opening other folders, but this did not seem to make a difference. Carrol Hanks has a problem on Ventura Version 2.0 (remember he is a Xerox training rep. so his copy is legit although I believe a beta copy) and sure would like to track down John Meyer from Ventura Software. I'm sure you can symphatize with a guy having problems with version 2, but Carroll works damm hard as far as I can tell so I don't begrudge him that. Chris Date: 12-11-88 (05:23) Number: 38 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: LENNY BAILES Read: YES Subj: MAC2IMG GMI 421 ETC. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE For the sake of accuracy, you might want to let people know that some of the conversion utilities in the Graphics section are inaccurately described. IMG2MAC, CV2IMG, MIRROR, etc. were originally part of a collection of programs called PICUTIL. They refer not to the Digital Research .IMG file format, but to one created by a company called EFS. They will not convert PCPAINT or MacPaint to Digital Research bitmap files. The program called MAC2GEM will convert PacPaint files into bitmapped .IMG (GEM Paint) files. It will not convert anything to the Digital Research vector format (.GEM). I'm in the process of tackling the same problem as the author of MACF-VP.TXT. I've been unable to create screen fonts as of yet, using this method, but have derived another method to convert Mac Screen fonts into Digital Research 75 dpi fonts. I'll detail this when I get the process perfected. (It helps to have the Armstrand Font Editor to be able to clean up the font files after the conversion.) Where did the Adobe screen fonts here come from originally. Dod Adobe create them is the Digital Research format, or were they somehow generated by the ABFTOFNT utility from PostScript fonts? More later... Date: 12-11-88 (05:30) Number: 39 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: 37 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: WORDPROCESSING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I started with WordStar and stuck to it through version 3.3 and then switched to MicroSoft Word. I've tried WP 4.2 and just did not like it. I use Word or WordStar depending on customer requirements and find myself editing with Ventura about 90% of the time. With the exception of Search & Replace, may spelling checker and macros, I find little use for a word rpcessor any more. I was really hoping that Ventura would come through in Version 2 with an improved editor. Commands for moving the cursor between words, sentences, and paragraphs would be great. Sooner or later, a third party vendor will come through with a editor that conceals Ventura's tags and automatically converts the attribute codes for editing sessions. Oh well, maybe improved editing commands will be added to Version 3.0. ...Gene Date: 12-11-88 (05:46) Number: 40 To: LENNY BAILES Refer#: 39 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: MAC2IMG GMI 421 ETC. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Lenny...you're right. I found the PICUTIL.ARC file on the system and compared the contents to the files in the graphics area. I've removed all of the individual utilities from the system and changed the description for the MAC2GEM.ARC file to note its correct operation. The Adobe screen fonts were provided to Ventura Software by Adobe for distribution through VPUG. Don Heiskell at Ventura Software did all the hard work converting the files and placing them in the correct format for Ventura Publisher. Keep these things in mind when setting up your system to use the screen fonts: 1. All Adobe screen fonts must have the .PSF file extension. This file extension has a special meaning to Ventura. The filenames must also remain the same. A table within Ventura maps the filenames to the numbering system used to identify fonts. This concept allows Ventura to display the correct screen font for PostScript or other printers. 2. The fonts must be placed in the \VENTURA directory -- not in the \PSFONTS directory. 3. If you install all of the fonts, increase your BUFFERS= statement in your CONFIG.SYS file to 35 or it will take a significant amount of time for Ventura to load each time. The alternate solution is to use a disk cache program to speed op Ventura. The best one I've found so far is the SMARTDRV program that comes with MicroSoft Windows. I've also tried Lighting and Flash and also seem to work fine. The screen fonts were delivered to Ventura Software by Adobe Systems for use by the Ventura Publisher user community. The intent was to give users of non-PostScript and PostScript printers the ability to proof chapters on screen prior to output to a Linotronic typesetter. VPUG has offered the fonts to users in a 7 disk set which includes installation instructions and other data. They charge $25.00 for the disk set which cover duplication costs, postage, and handling. VPUG elected to place the files on the Forum for users who needed to output to a Linotronic. By placing the files on the Forum, users can download the files without spending the $25.00 to acquire them. Note that the screen fonts in the set are only the ones available in the LaserWriter Plus. Additional screen fonts must be purchased through Adobe or Merganthyler. Date: 12-11-88 (05:53) Number: 41 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DAVID FIBUSH Read: (N/A) Subj: USE VP FONTS WITH MS-WORD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE If you use Microsoft Word as the "word processor of choice" for your VP inputs, and have an HP LaserJet you may be interested in the program PRD-MAKER from J.P. Enterpises. The prgram reads soft font files and writes Word compatible printer drivers for LaserJet printers. This means you can use public domain fonts or write drivers for fonts supplied for the HP LaserJet. If you would like more information on the program, you can contact J.P. Enterprises at 3877 Hancock Drive, Santa Clara, CA 95051, 408-248-7585. Also look for the file PRDINFO.ARC which may be on this BBS. Date: 12-11-88 (06:00) Number: 42 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BLAKE STEVENS Read: (N/A) Subj: STYLE SHEETS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I downloaded the three style sheet sets beginning with the letters TDOC. (TDOC693C.ARC, TDOC794C.ARC and TDOC853C.ARC). If you really want to learn Ventura Publisher, check these out. One stylesheet, in particular, recently appeared on the pages of Publish! magazine. They are fully documented and some of the most difficult examples of Ventura tech doc style sheets I've ever seen. I've had a terrible time learning to do vertical tabs and the examples in the tables on these really helped to clear my mind. Best of all they're for FREE. They were commercial style sheets and the author put them in the public domain. Read the README files... Date: 12-11-88 (09:45) Number: 43 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ALLAN OCHALEK Read: NO Subj: DOWNLOADING PROBLEMS... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE While attempting to download some files, I found that anything over 130 blocks would fail. I am using the XMODEM transfer protocol. Is there something I am doing wrong? Any help would be appreciated. Date: 12-11-88 (09:48) Number: 44 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MICHAEL STOICO Read: (N/A) Subj: VP & THE IBM 3812 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Does anybody out there know of a driver for printing Ventura Publisher output on an IBM 3812 pageprinter? I can get it to emulate a proprinter but the image quality isn't what I know I can get out of the 3812. Any help would be appreciated. Take care...Mike Date: 12-11-88 (10:06) Number: 45 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 40 From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: WORDPROCESSING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Yep, I certainly agree on your wish for a full-fledged text editor in Ventura. I started out with First Publisher and used to enter text directly. Was slower than Windows 1.x but o.k. for cartoon captions, etc. Spent the other evening evaluating Sprint. It seems to hide many of the commands I use frequently several menu levels deep (sorta like my opinion of Word) and yes I could customize, but I don't buy a program to have to "work" on it like a used car. Also the Postscript output gave me a big surprise. It might be my Postscript emulator, but I got a little larger type than I requested, something on the order of 300 points instead of 30 for headlines. Only printed 2 1/2 letters per page. Glad I didn't go to the store or something. Would have used a whole tray of paper. Proves that my emulator will sure print big. Obviously, Sprint is already gone from my hard disk. Shame about Borland, though. I have the same opinion of Quattro and although I have a complimentary copy of SideKick Plus on my shelf for monts, I can't work up the strength to try it. Am afraid I will be disappointed and therefore, my opinion of Borland will be pretty low. I always admired the original SideKick and the company. Real sad that they have kind of lost their way, but it does happen to companies as they grow in every industry. Let us say a prayer for Ventura. Tried WordStar 5 yet? I will be looking at it in the next day or so. Shame that they didn't support a mouse this time. I had to give up on WordStar 4 due to the lack of proportional font control for laser printers. Cot a copy of WordStar 2000 Version 3 gathering dust on the same shelf! Must be without a doubt, the biggest wordprocessing (sorry word publishing) program I ever saw. Took up 5-7 megs the short time I had it on my harddisk. Sure wish I had evaluated that one before I bought it! Good support for laser fonts, even noname generic fonts though, but you need a good utility to poke in font header and get some data as I remeber. Chris Date: 12-11-88 (10:20) Number: 46 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: PAGE NUMBERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John...a few days ago, I left a message about the first page number in a chapter not appearing when loaded into the version 2 beta. The problem only occurs when version 1.1 chapters are loaded into version 2. Well, I can get the page numbers to appear now by resetting the page number format to 1,2. Note that the new style sheets and template sets for the magazine were created from scratch in version 2.0, but the problem also occurs on these files. I got curious and tried to load a few old chapters from some manuals. 50% of the time, the first page number did not appear, but I could force it to appear by clicking on 1,2 in the counter dialog box. I've also had a problem trying to conceal graphics lines placed on the underlying page. If I put a solid white frame over a line, the line bleeds through on the display and when printed. Am I doing something wrong? I use this feature a lot to bleed graphic images over ruling lines and boxes. It doesn't work anymore. cc: Bob Moody Date: 12-11-88 (10:24) Number: 47 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: MICHAEL STOICO Read: YES Subj: VP AND THE IBM 3812 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene...I think the 3812 pageprinter is forefather of the IBM personal pageprinter. I know that it is used on host VM systems and is phasing out the 5210 printers. IBM is still selling them so it may be a larger model of the personal pageprinter. Take care...Michael Date: 12-11-88 (10:28) Number: 48 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GEORGE HAVACH Read: (N/A) Subj: TOPS NETWORK Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi there, Anybody out there using Ventura while running on a TOPS Network? If so, I'd be very interested to know how your getting past TOPS' outrageous memory usage (it grabs ~200K). What memory-expansion board or other device have you found useful? I'd like to know if there's any economical solution to the meory conflict. Tnaks in advice for any advice.................................George Date: 12-11-88 (10:34) Number: 49 To: MICHAEL STOICO Refer#: 48 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: VP AND THE IBM 3812 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Michael...a friend tells me that the 3812 has been built for several years and was originally intended as one of IBM's Net printers. Drivers and fonts are proprietary to IBM. I'm afraid that the only way you are going to find a driver is if some enterprising soul writes one. Ventura Software supports the most popular printers directly and offers tech support for developers who write drivers on their own. Possibly another 3812 user will log in and upload a driver. I'll keep my eye out when visiting other boards and bring up the issue at our local user group. We have a lot of IBM writers and formatters attending the meetings. Date: 12-11-88 (10:40) Number: 50 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JOHN KERR Read: NO Subj: SYSOP'S VISIT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene. John calling from C.E.P.I.C. BBS in Bramalea Ontario Canada. Just dropped by in reponse to a message you left on my system earlier today in regards to getting my address for including us in your mailings. Very glad that you have joined the ranks of the NPE, I think that we will all benefit from the rapidly growing group. I should keep this short since I see that I have a noisy line here. The address for my system is C.E.P.I.C. BBS, c/o John Kerr, 30 Athlone Avenue, Bramalea Ontario, Canada L6T 2N7 Looking forward to receiving your magazine. Talk to you later...John Date: 12-11-88 (10:44) Number: 51 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ALAN NIVEN Read: (N/A) Subj: NICE BOARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for access to your board. Looks like there is a lot going on. I have a bunch of Atari ST DTP files, I could upload if there is any interest. I run a new OPUS BBS called PostBoard 707-882-2833 HST 75 megs. Stop by if you're interested. I'll connect again soon. --Alan Date: 12-11-88 (11:00) Number: 52 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: WORDPROCESSING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Well, on Ventura going the way of Borland, it dawned on me that perhaps that is exactly why Meyer chose to let Xerox market it for him. As a finance man (or former finance man), I understand that a lot of the problems and need to raise cash ( which inevitably brings in the professionals like I was) is to mount an effective marketing effort. Then particular as these "professionals" share a great commonality of interest with bankers and other investors (read Bottom Line), the poor original developers/founders get squeezed out due to their primary interest/talent in writing code, etc. and inability or disinterest in the financial side. As for WordStar 5, I took a look last night. The drop down menus are nice and page preview is a great feature that knocks the sock off comparable programs (though I haven't looked at WordPerfect 5 yet), but old Wschange is more in evidence than it was before. You can't even get the screen in color without using it. There is a font manager, but it looks like all it does is write a font database that you have to use another program (prchange ?) to use to integrate this database in your .prn (printer file). Not exactly very well integrated or simple, particularly for novices. On the whole, I think that WS 5 is probably the most customizable word processing program in the world (well, maybe Sprint beats it on user interface customizing), but who needs to spend the evening or day setting it up. I use PFS: Professional Write as it came out of the box. And I got Ventura when I need its power. I'm afraid Micropro is doomed. But I still like Wordstar 3.3. Nice, small, fits on a floppy disk and with default printer will print darn near any printer in world (even worked with my laser with built in fonts). Chris Date: 12-11-88 (11:05) Number: 53 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MAEVE MAHON Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: PRINTING TO LINOTRON 100 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I need help printing captured HotShot screen to a Linotronic 100. They print fine to an Apple LaserWriter, but when I try to run them on the Linotronic -- nothng comes out!! And, of course, I'm on deadline. If anyone has tried this successfully, please let me know. Thanks in advance. Maeve Date: 12-11-88 (11:10) Number: 54 To: MAEVE MAHON Refer#: 54 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: PRINTING TO LINOTRON 100 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Maeve...call telephone information for Los Altos, CA (area code 415) and ask for the telephone number of SymSoft, Inc. When the receptionist answers the phone, ask for Mike Cuthbertson and explain your problem. If the Linotronic is not printing the files they will probably want to know about it. If Mike is not in, ask for Greg Dansforth. Greg wrote HotShot. However, in thinking about this a little more, it sound more like a Linotronic problem than a HotShot problem. Maybe some other use has encountered this problem before. Date: 12-11-88 (11:17) Number: 55 To: MAEVE MAHON Refer#: 54 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: PRINTING TO LINOTRON 100 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Maeve...try one more thing. Download the file LINOTRON.ARC from the Ventura Conference area. It contains Ventura Software's instructions for building a cable and downloading the DTR file to the Linotronic 100. This may be your problem if nothing, including text, is being printed. Date: 12-11-88 (11:20) Number: 56 To: RITCHIE KOLNOS Refer#: 13 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: VENTURA W/ LINOTRONIC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ritchie...download the file, LINOTRON.ARC, containing Ventura Software's instructions for setting up a Linotronic with Ventura. Let me know if it helps. Date: 12-11-88 (11:23) Number: 57 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 57 From: RITCHIE KOLNOS Read: YES Subj: VENTURA W/ LINOTRONIC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene...Thank you for the information about the LINOTRON.ARC file. I've downloaded it and it will be very helpful. The file is basically a reprint of an article that explains the cabling hookups between a PC and a Linotronic. Thanks for your suggestion. Date: 12-11-88 (11:47) Number: 58 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: STEPHEN HUENERS Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: TIP: SET A BALLOT BOX Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE HOW TO USE VENTURA ASCII CHARACTERS TO CREATE BALLOT BOXES I create many forms with Ventura, so I frequently need to use "ballot" or "check-off" boxes. Since I'm using a HP LaserJet Series II, and fonts that already provide the characters, I've come up with a way to have Ventura create them using the underbar (_) character and the bar (|) character and supply the correct "kern character" and "raise cheracter" information. This is more versatile method than drawing a frame or graphic box, since, being text characters, this box will move with the text as it is edited. One of the articles in Ventura Publishes a few months back suggested using specially tagged paragraphs with "frame ruling around" on, however this method will not allow the insertion of the box in mid-sentence. One thing to keep in mind when you use my method is that these codes are making specific point size calls, and that if that size is different fromt he current font, all copy after the box will reflect the new point size. There are several ways to deal with this. 1. If you are only placing one or two boxes in text, simply highlight the copy *after* the box and pick normal. Be certain that anytime after you've placed the box you do not highlight and change text attributes of any text that includes a box. All the special formatting codes, the kerns and the raises will be stripped. So if you want a bold box you have to create a separate set of codes for that, in addition to calling a specific size, also calls a bold at that size. 2. If you are placing more than a few boxes, do all the work in your text editor and add a code at the end to the box code to change the font size back to BODY TEXT size. For example, this code will create a 12 point box. |__| If the BODY TEXT size is 14 point, simply add "P14" to the final code set. |__| To save type and eliminate typos, I've created macros in my word processor (WP 5.0) that return the basic box. If I need to modify anything, like another point size at the end of the box, I simply Search /Replace. These then are the code you use to get the boxes: 12 point: |__| 10 point: |__| 08 point: |__| 06 point: |__| Date: 12-11-88 (11:55) Number: 59 To: RITCHIE KOLNOS Refer#: 58 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: VENTURA W/ LINOTRONIC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ritchie...here's another lead on Linotronic information for you. The typographer who designed the Scoop schapter in Ventura's \TYPESET directory is Stephen Manousos. Steve is president of the California Typographer's Club, author of several books on typesetting and owner of Aptos Post Typography. He may be able to point you in the direction of additional information about the Linotronic. I don't have Steve's telephone number, but here's the address: Stephen Manousos Aptos Post Typography P.O. Box 910 Aptos, CA 95001 I believe the typesetting club runs a private bbs service. You can find out from Steve. Date: 12-11-88 (12:02) Number: 60 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: UPLOAD OF OCT88.PS.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Steve Sander's WYSIWYG magazine is now downloadable from the Forum. This months issue, OCT88-PS.ARC, is presently on-line. At least four back issues will also be available in the Main Board area by the end of the week. You can also download the file from the Ventura Conference. Date: 12-11-88 (12:06) Number: 61 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ROBERT WARNKE Read: (N/A) Subj: NEC LC-890 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE NEC LC-890 users...is there anyone out there using the LC-890 to it's full capacity, i.e., with all the fonts built in. I have yet to reach anyone at NEC who can tell me how to use all the built in fonts with Ventura Publisher. There has to be a width table somewhere. If you here about one, please let me know! RGW Date: 12-11-88 (12:09) Number: 62 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 50 From: MICHAEL STOICO Read: NO Subj: VP AND THE IBM 3812 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, Well, that's a start. I've checked here and on CompuServ. And the replies have been pretty much the same. My intention is to write the driver myself. I work for IBM so I've got some feelers out on the 3812 side of things. How do I contact Ventura to get their help (or have I already?) Mike Date: 12-11-88 (12:14) Number: 63 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ROBERT WARNKE Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: NEC LC-890 DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE NEC Information Systems told me that they have a driver for Ventura on their bulletin board, but their bulletin board is down. Is there anyone out there that has the driver, would they pass it on? RGW Date: 12-11-88 (12:21) Number: 64 To: TODD LEONARD Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO Subj: VP FILE FORMATS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE If you are a qualified developer and wish to write utilities for Ventura Publisher, you should write directly to Ventura Software, 1188 Padre Drive, Suite 201, Salinas, CA 93901. Please describe the exact nature of the product you wish to develop and what information you need. Most of our file formats are proprietary and are only available under non-disclosure to qualified developers. Information on screen and printer driver development is available to qualified developers who have purchased the GEM developer's toolkit from Digital Research. Direct all development inquiries to my attention and I will make sure that the right person handles the request. Date: 12-11-88 (12:25) Number: 65 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 47 From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO Subj: PAGE NUMBERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, .. This sounds like a problem that we had quite some time ago. Xerox was pretty slow in updating the beta sites towards the end of the beta testing. At one time, you could not print the first page, and the pages which did print were always one page beyond the ones requested. .. You should have a VP.APP or VPPRIF.APP file dated 9/11/88 or later. Date: 12-11-88 (12:49) Number: 66 To: BOB LEVINE Refer#: 16 From: CARROLL BAKER Read: NO Subj: TO: CARROLL BAKER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bob...having trouble getting this msg out...yes, I do remember the conversation and am glad you did't forget. Even though Professional Extension now does equations, I still feel that an article on how to do it if you don't have PE would be a great idea and this has been a bone of contention for some advanced and merely adventurous VP users. Would it be OK with you to use part of your previous message/article as a letter to the editor in the magazine, or Q&A section? Parts of it, even with the new version out, are of interest to our readers. Please let me or Gene know. Looking forward to your submission soonest. Let others know that we do want articles, letters to editor and questions (with and without answers) and especially for the November issue all kinds of tips and tricks with Ventura. For December...how to become rich and famous (well, maybe just good looking) with Ventura and DTP as a vocation, business opportunity or may we go this far...career path. A lot of people are doing it...more are interested...how do they know when they're ready...how do they go about it...Again looking forward to your article. All for now. Carroll Baker, Editor, Ventura Professional! Date: 12-14-88 (23:48) Number: 67 To: ROBERT WARNKE Refer#: 64 From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: NEC LC-890 DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Robert...leave the number of the NEC bulletin board and I'll try to download the file for you. I may also be able to get the file from an alternate source. ...Gene Date: 12-15-88 (00:09) Number: 68 To: SYSOP Refer#: 68 From: ROBERT WARNKE Read: NO Subj: NEC LC-890 DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Since I'm logging on away from the office, I can't give you the number until later, yet I was told yesterday that they were moving to a new building and the board would be up ASAP. You mentioned a message from John Grant, I can see the message numbers (410, 414) when I look at personal mail, but I can't seem to read them...do you know why. Also I hope you didn't get the idea that I can't print...quite the contrary...yet there are still some fonts I can't use which are built into the printer. I'll let you know when I solve the problem of the elusive fonts, by the way, thanks for all the dilligent help, it's greatly appreciated. RGW cc: John Grant Rick Altman Date: 12-15-88 (00:15) Number: 69 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JEFF PERRY Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: HELP! VENTURA & THE EGA Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am a new VP user and am having difficulty installing Ventura on my 286 Clone (PC Source aka CompuADD) with a no name EGA card. Once installed (per instruction manual) for the EGA /EGA monitor and a mouse, when I try to run the program I begin to get little glitches in the opening GEM screen and subsequent screens and dialog boxes. The cursor then begins to disintegrate, and finally the system locks up or crashes me out to the DOS prompt. My guess is the no-name EGA card is not quite 100% compatible. Anyone else have a similar problem? Thanx in advance. JLP Date: 12-15-88 (00:40) Number: 71 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: 53 From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: WORDPROCESSING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Chris...from what I know of the founders of Ventura Software, I would say your estimation of their motives for marketing the package through Xerox is pretty close. You've got to remember that all of the founders worked for Digital Research, Inc. and they were very well aware of the difficulties of running a large company with too many people. During an interview with John Meyer, Don Heiskell, Lee Jay Lorenzon and John Grant in 1986, everyone focused on the point of keeping the development effort small -- a close group of people who like working with one another. I think that this was a good move and the decision to market the product with Xerox opened a door where the product could be distributed internationally without increasing the number of personnel on the development team. You might note that Ventura Software is still a team of 5 including their office manager, Michelle. I wish I had the time to review and use all the software packages you speak about. Between this board and my other duties on the magazine, I just don't have any free time to play any more. ...Gene Date: 12-15-88 (00:51) Number: 72 To: SYSOP Refer#: 72 From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: YES Subj: WORDPROCESSING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Well, I may have been dead wrong about the Xerox/Ventura relationship being positive. I am really hot about how Xerox has been handling upgrading current users. The stores in Houston are full of copies of Version 2 and I haven't even had a letter from Xerox offering me a upgrade. Last time I talked to Xerox Dallas, they admitted they were concentrating on getting Version 2 in the distribution channel BEFORE addressing users. I think that stinks!!! On other software, I get a upgrade offer usually before it hits the store shelves. Including mail time, it is usally after it hits the stores that I get the upgrade in hand, but not by much. In my immodest opinion, Ventura was initially fueled by users positive word of mouth. Alienating current users is not the way to increase sales. In fact, it will be interesting to see if I am offered a pirate copy of Version 2 before I am allowed to obtain my legal copy. Chris Date: 12-15-88 (01:02) Number: 73 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: VPUGH BBS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hop you got on Carroll's board before he lost his Ventura message base due to some unknown system problem. I mean the Ventura Conf. Message base. Apparently, he is not going to rebuild it from the backup, but I'm not sure. He is really busy teaching classes right now. We had some nice message threds going in there and I really miss it. I think everybody is disheartened as not much activity since it died, but I am sure it will pickup. Oh, I left a hot message about the Ventura upgrade debacle to you including the unmentional word "Pirate". I was hoping to get John Meyer's attention to see how he feels about the whole situation. I'm really hot about this, but also full of hardware problems so I haven't had time to holler at my Dallas Xerox office. Will do so this week. I was not kidding one bit. I bet I do have the opportunity to get a pirate copy of Version 2 before I get my legal copy. And that is gonna make me LIVID. Of course, you understand that the Houston computer community has always been a favorite. Ironic really, because most of the folks probably have no use for it. I would never condone piracy, but at least locally, I bet it has had a very positive effect on Ventura's reputation and sales. There are very few programs I can think of that are as coveted and sought after. Chris Date: 12-15-88 (01:56) Number: 74 To: STEPHEN HUENERS Refer#: 59 From: CARROLL BAKER Read: YES Subj: TIP: SET A BALLOT BOX Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Stephen - thanks for your response re: how to do ballot or check boxes. We've printed a couple over the last year, and other BBS users are also turned on to contributing..you've started something good. To repeat...this editor is ALWAYS looking for and welcoming submissions, articles, tips and tricks, chapter or special user profiles, etc. If you or anyone else can give us instructions on how to do something that when followed give reproducible results, PLEASE SEND ON DISK OR UPLOAD VIA THE BBS! Long or short. Who knows...you might be our next Workshop author! Carroll Baker, Editor, Ventura Professional! Date: 12-15-88 (02:21) Number: 75 To: CARROLL BAKER Refer#: 75 From: STEPHEN HUENERS Read: YES Subj: TIP: SET A BALLOT BOX Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the opportunity to submit a trick -- of course this is my chance to show off -- feel free to bleed whatever color ink you wish or give me a day-time call if I can clarify anything. Date: 12-15-88 (02:26) Number: 76 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE While we were chatting about Ventura, there is one thing about the Ver. 2 press release that is really bugging me. It mentioned that certain PostScript special effects may be programmed to be represented by different colors on the screen. I talked to one Houston Ventura user who claims to be a Version 2 beta tester and she said the documentation she was furnished makes no mention of the same. Just thought you might of heard. Ability to do outline fonts was only hint I've seen so far. Chris Date: 12-15-88 (02:34) Number: 77 To: GEORGE WEINERT Refer#: NONE From: STEPHEN HUENERS Read: YES Subj: QUESTION ON NEWSDESI.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE George, I was interested to see your message regarding the availability of the designer style templates you uploaded. It's always helpful to see how others execute functions. However, I'm not sure I completely understand how to get into these sheets. CHP files are present so I've attempted to open them. I've zarc'ed all the files and placed them on Drive A:. On each occasion, I've had my system locked up after OK'ing to chapter open. Once I received a dialog box from Ventura referring to ERROR function. Each attempt to open a chapter has forced me to power down to recover. Your message refers to the "edit function to remove the existant text files used for samples..." I assume you mean to edit frames to load new files...but given the troubles I'm having, I am not sure. Again, thans for the samples, but can you help with the problem I'm having? cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-15-88 (02:43) Number: 78 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: 77 From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I believe you heard about the color shading provisions. With 2.0, you can assign colors of your own, assign them user-defined names and select the color options on the font menu. This assumes you're using a VGA monitor or high resolution monitor supported by Ventura. However, if you don't have one of these, you can use the color definition system to exploit the progressive gray shading supported by PostScript and other high-level page description languages. Rather than assign colors, you can define shades of gray in 1/10 % increments. Real nice feature if you have a printer which can output the fine degradations in gray tone. If there are other features, I'm not sure what they are. I'm not completely up on VP 2.0 yet. We just started to use it in production in the last two weeks or so. If John Meyer or John Grant sees this message, they may be able to elaborate on this more. Date: 12-15-88 (03:06) Number: 79 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: 74 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: VPUGH BBS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Chris...I left the message in a comment to the Sysop, so I think he got the message alright. He probably just has not had time to call yet if he is as busy as you say he is. The HAL PC deal should be great for VPUGH. HAL is a well known user organization within the PC community and has lots of clout plus a large bank account. Even though VPUGH and VPUG are no longer affiliated, we should develop a system for exchanging ideas. This board and Carroll Hank's board might just serve that purpose. Also, if Carroll plans to add NetMail, let me know. We'll be starting a Ventura explicit ECHO conference real soon. ...Gene Date: 12-15-88 (03:12) Number: 80 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: LOCKUP PROBLEM Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John...we've found a reoccurring, but intermittent problem with the latest Viking 1 driver -- the one that's intended for Version 2.0. Henry Niles shipped us a driver with a note in which he indicated that a single driver was now used for Ventura Publisher and GEM 3.0 applications. A lockup occurs when changing modes and sometimes after executing the Save command from the files menu. The problem does not seem to be isolated to any single mode change sequence. We do not feel that the problem has anything to do with the actual software routines, since the mouse freezes on the screen in the same exact location. It seems to lockup if the mouse is moved slightly after executing a mode change or the Save command. The mouse cursor always freezes in a position over the right corner of the Table Edit icon. Note that Carroll Baker and I have been both experiencing the same problem. So far, this problem has been restricted to the use of the Viking monitor and no others. Date: 12-15-88 (03:20) Number: 81 To: SYSOP Refer#: 79 From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have a VGA and, in fact, run Ventura in 800 by 600 16 color mode with the driver furnished with my Paradise VGA Plus card. It's real nice in that I can get a full page on the screen with no greeking. Letters are small and not terribly east to read, but they are letters. I'm thinking of upgrading to 800 by 600 with 256 colors, but not specifically for Ventura. The programmable PostScript functions I was referring to are in a file called something like pspre.eff, which must be renamed to something like ps2.pre (normal PostScript file) to get the special effects. I know they include font outlining. You program them to match whatever screen color you want, then you just choose the color in Ventura and get the special PostScript font effect when you print. Just curious what it will do besides outline a letter. Chris Date: 12-15-88 (03:23) Number: 82 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ROBERT WARNKE Read: YES Subj: THANKS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I really appreciate your dilligence in helping me with my driver problem. See ya later! RGW Date: 12-15-88 (03:32) Number: 83 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DAVID KATZ Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello. I was just browsing through your system and am very impressed. Have just started to use Ventura and was looking for systems that have files for Ventura. This is great! I hope that I may be allowed access to use the system. I am a sysop for a closed system for my employer, but I have gotten permission to open a second node for the public. We have 110 mb available for downloading. We are computer consultants specializing in Novell Lans and we have lots of utilities and games as well as the usual DOS, printer, and misc. Maybe we can work out a sharing arrangement between the two systems. Anyway, I look forward to using your system. Thanks... Date: 12-15-88 (03:35) Number: 84 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: HENRY POLARD Read: NO Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I downloaded files using Xmodem with CRC, and was able to unarc them at work. The problem was that I used plain Xmodem rather than Xmodem with CRC. Thanks much for your help. Date: 12-15-88 (03:40) Number: 85 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: STEPHEN HUENERS Read: YES Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'm not sure, but I thought I saw a line in the press release on Version 2.0 about accomodating a mixture of portrait and landscape on a single pass. This would be possible in a vanilla HPLJII. Date: 12-15-88 (03:56) Number: 86 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: 77 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: POSTSCRIPT SPECIAL EFFECT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Chris, I'm the person responsible for implementing the PostScript driver for Ventura Publisher, including its "special effects" capabilities. The original intent behind the special effects preample (PS2.EFF, which can replace PS2.PRE to provide these effects) was to provide a model for other enterprising PostScript hacker out there. The idea was that a few neat PostScript-specific features could be provided to anybody who wanted them -- but that teaching people to fish was really more effective. This is consistent with our policy of trying to encourage and support enterprising third party development. Anyway, besides serving as a model, the "special effects" preample really has only one neat feature -- outline font support. Text can be drawn using an outline font specifying that it is a particular color (I don't remember which). In addition, there were two text rotation capabilities which were implemented before we included text rotation as a feature in VP itself. These remain in the preample simply to provide further examples. I am of the opinion that the special effects preample doesn't even come close to providing the capabilities available in third party efforts, such as Corel's. But maybe it will inspire others to investigate some of the "hidden" (i.e. less apparent) features of VP. Regards, jg Date: 12-15-88 (03:58) Number: 87 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 82 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: LOCKUP PROBLEM Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I presume you've contacted Mr. Niles about this problem. If not, please do so and tell him that if he needs any further assistance, he should contact Don. jg Date: 12-15-88 (08:57) Number: 88 To: STEPHEN HUENERS Refer#: 87 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ventura Publisher 2.0 does not really support portrait and landscape on the same page. For PostScript printers, it does allow paragraph rotations in 90 degree increments (90, 180, 270). Several new products are hitting the market which do allow HP LaserJet and other printers toe ability to perform PostScript special effects. One such product, "Freedom of Press", from Custom Applications, Inc. (CAI) comes with 35 fonts compatible with the set found on the Apple LaserWriter Plus and does all PostScript special effects. We'll be doing a review on it and several other similar products in the next few months. Date: 12-15-88 (09:01) Number: 89 To: STEPHEN HUENERS Refer#: 78 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: QUESTION ON NEWSDESI.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Stephen...I'll try to take a look at the file when the board is not busy. I just barged in between calls to answer your message. If the file is usable, I'll make a readme.doc file to explain how to install the chapters. If not, I'll leave a message on George's board to see if I can get a copy. You can call George also. He's a little closer to home. Check the bulletins (Bulletin 2) for the telephone number for the Publisher's Information Exchange (PIS). It's in Chicago. Date: 12-15-88 (09:04) Number: 90 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: 89 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: LOCKUP PROBLEM Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John...I passed a copy of my message to Bob Moody who has been dealing with Henry Niles. I'll double check to make sure Mr. Niles got the message. ...Gene Date: 12-15-88 (09:08) Number: 91 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: HOWARD SOBEL Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Enjoed looking around. I downloaded a file and tried to upload a file. I seem to have problems with PC Pursuit on certain boards. It will sometimes let your download transmit and give problems with uploads or vice-versa. Zmodem almost uploaded. Thanks again...I'll be in touch. Howard Sobel Sobel Desktop Publishing 3109 Nottingham Road Norristown, PA 19403 215-539-6160 Date: 12-15-88 (09:12) Number: 92 To: HOWARD SOBEL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: PC PURSUIT PROBLEMS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Howard...let me know if you continue to have problems. I'll be switching to USR Courier 2400E modems with MNP5 error checking in mid-December. You may have better luck after the new modems are on-line. If you see some files you need and have trouble downloading them, you might be able to make arrangements with VPUG to have a disk shipped to your address. ...Gene Date: 12-15-88 (09:20) Number: 93 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: STEPHEN HUENERS Read: (N/A) Subj: CONFERENCES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'd like some feedback from other users who are interested in a conference dedicated to the creation of forms using Ventura. I think this could make a good conference that would pass some valuable information about accomplishing special effects and could save users from the expense of purchasing dedicated forms software. Of course this grows out of my personal prejudice (or affection) for what I've been involved in over the last year. If there are production graphic artists out there who either create forms or work in a shop where somebody else creates them, drop me a line. If you are business-oriented users who need to construct an occasional form and would like to able to share experiences, lets hear from you. My perspective on this is that, like so many other products (software), the writers can't see all the tasks that will be possible when they provide users with flexible and comprehensive features. I think Ventura can be shown to be an excellent forms tool and would like to start a dialogue along those lines. Chris Date: 12-15-88 (09:28) Number: 94 To: ROBERT WARNKE Refer#: 84 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: NEC LC890 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Robert...use the View command from the File menu to check out the file VPLC890.ARC. The source of the file indicates that it was downloaded from the NEC board a few months ago. It contains a driver and a width table. You'll have to download the file to figure if the missing fonts are addressable. Let me know if the width table did what you wanted it to do or leave a public message indicating such. Other users may have the same wish to use the missing fonts. ...Gene Date: 12-15-88 (09:31) Number: 95 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ROBERT WARNKE Read: NO Subj: NEC LC890 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dear Gene, I can't thank you enough...I will let you know how it works. Has anyone ever done an article about the LC-890 for the newsletter? RGW Date: 12-15-88 (09:36) Number: 96 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DEIRDRE' STRAUGHAN Read: (N/A) Subj: VENTURA 1.12 AND NETWORKS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am about to beta test the LaserMaster CapCard on a Novell ELS 286 network. Does anyone know anything (and can you answer *fast*) about running Ventura from a Network? I have a RAM disk in the workstation I intend to use, if that's any help. Ventura is also on that station, but I guess I'll need to be on the network in order to use the new CAPCard. Has anyone successfully ran Ventura from a RAM disk? Any ideas at all would be appreciated! Date: 12-15-88 (09:42) Number: 97 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: STEPHEN HUENERS Read: NO Subj: MODERATORS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE As you probably read in my previous message, I'm suggesting opening a Forms Oriented conference. I'd be interested in exploring the possibility of helping with this process in position of moderator and would like some more details regarding the commitment you are looking for. For example: is this a live setting and would a moderator have to be available at a specific time? If so, and they are daytime hours, what about long distance charges. The whole process sounds really interesting and I'm looking forward to it regardless of the role I play. Date: 12-15-88 (09:51) Number: 98 To: CARROLL BAKER Refer#: NONE From: HANS ANDRIESE Read: YES Subj: DUTCH VENTURA EDITION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello Carroll, Remeber me? We met at Seybold a few weeks ago. We as a Dutch Ventura Publisher Users Group want to use some of your material. Bob, you and me discussed that. Can you look into the posibility that we get the text files of your main articles from the September issue? The one that was called "The Turbo Powered Go Mobile". If possible we would like to include this in full lengths (including snapshots of screen displays) in our forth coming issue of the Dutch version of Ventura Professional! To that purpose, we urgently need a file with the text and possibly the graphics. You can send these in either floppy format or via E-mail (download/upload to my address). But first can you answer me if this is allowed and if the text is available to use? Meanwhile best wishes cc: Hans Andriese Date: 12-15-88 (10:19) Number: 99 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ROBERT THOMAS Read: NO Subj: PHOENIX TBBS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene, Got your message on my board about Phoenix TBBS. I can't help you there as I was locked out after I registered. I don't know why. All I did was leave an introduction to the sysop. I will relay your message to Ron LaFon. See Ya... Date: 12-15-88 (10:23) Number: 100 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: THOMAS MUI Read: (N/A) Subj: DOWNLOAD FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have been using VP with JRAMAT3 cards. In loading or rather putting in updates, and reloading my Conographic Zapf Chancery via SoftCraft WYSIWYG program, I get the Chancery on my screen but what prints out on the HP LaserJet II is Dutchbold. Where did I go wrong? Also, has anyone had experience with JRAMAT3 cards that switched to the LaserMaster card? I understand that the LaserMaster is filled with the same fonts that Adobe puts in the Mac printers. HELP! cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-15-88 (10:33) Number: 101 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: POSSIBLE BUGS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have forwarded items 1 and 2 to Don. Number 3 is not a bug, but reflects what the item selector now does if the directory last viewed (i.e., the current "default") does not exist. Thanks for the input! jg Date: 12-16-88 (02:29) Number: 102 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 96 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: NEC LC890 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bob...a little more info for you on the NEC LC-890 driver: The driver on the NEC bulletin board is an old driver which was provided to NEC (by me) during testing of one of the 1.1 patch releases. It has since been superceded and most likely provides nothing beyond what the standard PostScript driver provides. This is almost certainly the case because we don't make source code for our PostScript driver available for enhancement by third parties (except Imagen, but even there, it's a very limited amount of source code we provide). I don't know if NEC is providing a width table, but if that is in fact what you've arced and provided, it probably provides the real value-added. Most likely, it will have their additional fonts set for resident. I've spoken with NEC in the last week and recommended to them that the PostScript driver not be made available in the future -- particularly not for version 2 customers. That would be a real disservice! They will continue to provide the 24-pin dot matrix driver for 1.0 and 1.1 customers though, since no solution was previously made there. But, again, 2.0 customers should use the Ventura Epson LQ driver for NEC 24-pin printers. Hope that this has helped! jg Date: 12-16-88 (02:39) Number: 103 To: SYSOP Refer#: 28 From: BILL AUCLAIR Read: NO Subj: VENTURA ECHO CONFERENCE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I'm somewhat ambivalent about setting up a Ventura -specific echo. It *would* take a hell of a lot away from the general DTP echoes like LASERPUB, but on the other hand, you make a good point that Ventura is complex enough to warrant such treatment. Either way, consider me a feed if and when you get such a echomail conference going. My FidoNet Matrix number is 1:141/715 -- drop me a message when you're ready to get started, and I can function as your Notheast feed for the echo until it becomes popular enough to put on regular echomail distribution routes across the country. Let me know... B-) Bill Auclair Date: 12-16-88 (22:57) Number: 104 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: MARSHALL NORRIS Read: YES Subj: PROTOCOLS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE comm protocol, then gives choices from among "Imodem," "Xmodem," etc. I'm running a Hayes 1200B internal on a Compaq portable, and my options are limited to "verification" and "stop-start." What SHOULD I have entered as a protocol? Marsh Date: 12-16-88 (22:59) Number: 105 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: BOB TRACY Read: YES Subj: NEW TO BULLETIN BOARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE please upgrade. I am member. I am head of VPUG Camarillo Meets in California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks fourth Tuesday 7:00 pm no meeting in December. Need info where to find "Packet1 and Packet2.ARC" thanx Date: 12-16-88 (23:00) Number: 106 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: THOMAS MUI Read: (N/A) Subj: FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Looked into my Ventura files this morning and unfortunately it seems correct i.e. ZC120BPN.B120BPN.EGA, ZC300BPN.B30 and ZC300BPN.EGA. I have 7766016 byte left in E:\Ventura. As indicated, I am using JRAMAT3 cards with 4megs of memory - back to Ventura 1.1 without the patches? Thanks again for everyone's assise. Maybe Bitstream is the answer (or Glyphix). cc: Gene Rodrigues John Grant Date: 12-16-88 (23:01) Number: 107 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: THOMAS MUI Read: NO Subj: FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Looked into my Ventura files this morning and unfortunately it seems correct i.e. ZC120BPN.B120BPN.EGA, ZC300BPN.B30 and ZC300BPN.EGA. I have 7766016 byte left in E:\Ventura. As indicated, I am using JRAMAT3 cards with 4megs of memory - back to Ventura 1.1 without the patches? Thanks again for everyone's assise. Maybe Bitstream is the answer (or Glyphix). cc: Gene Rodrigues John Grant Date: 12-16-88 (23:03) Number: 108 To: CARROLL BAKER Refer#: NONE From: RON HODGES Read: YES Subj: NEW USERS GROUP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Carroll: We are just starting our Special Interst Group on DTP and if there are enough Ventura users/prospective users we will start a separat group for just Ventura. Our club is quite small, about 175 paid members but the last meeting really brought out the DTP fans. I'll keep on top of the situation and let you know how we are doing. RON Date: 12-16-88 (23:05) Number: 109 To: BOB TRACY Refer#: 107 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: NEW TO BULLETIN BOARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bob, You access rights have been upgraded and they will be increased onc more when the new conferencing system goes on line. Carroll Baker will b hosting a conference just for VPUG Chapters. Any VPUG Chapter will have the opportunity to route mail to another. A NetMail system will also be available for sending files or messages to Electronic VPUG Chapters located in Houston, Chicago, Seattle and Atlanta. A little patience here will go a long way. We're attempting to force this BBS software to perform operations it cannot do. Future enhancement to the software will eventually circumvent this problem. We should have conferencing facilities, Netmail and Echomail installed within the next month. Thanks for your patience... Gene R. Date: 12-16-88 (23:10) Number: 110 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: GEORGE WEINERT Read: YES Subj: DOING FINE... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks Gene, sorry have been really sick this week, but got a conference for VPUG set up at PIS, and got the new questionairre script writer for RBBS as well, so will put a Ventura questionairre in effect. No, I have no quarrel with the Des Plaines group, in fact see no reason whatsoever why a town as large as Chicago should only have ONE chapter, and one that small to boot! Brought this up with JIm some months ago, an he seems rather luke warm to the idea! What REALLY makes no sense to me at all is the fact that the FAIRLY SUBSTANTIAL community of the downtown VP users are not being reached at all! Even when we had our meetings at LaserMaster, later Xerox in Des Plaines, they were not there. I know, from my consulting and training work at PIS that there are at least 500 VP users in the downtown, river north and susrrounding areas o Chicago, and brached the idea with Kettlecamp of a downtown chapter, and of course Xerox has a large center down there (In fact even trained the Arthu Anderson Staff right next door!) - so, an awful lot of potential i going to waste. You saw the bulletins at PIS, and a number of users have already inquired about VPUG and tghe users group. I shall call you early paert of this week, and let's see what we can figure out. Odd, but for SOME reason the large potential of VP users in this area ar not being reached! I know I get a lot of them at PIS that are NOT EVEN AWARE of VPUG at all, and of course I immediately put them on to you her now as well. Date: 12-16-88 (23:11) Number: 111 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: GEORGE WEINERT Read: YES Subj: DOING FINE... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Yes, that wouuld indeed be a splendid idea, consisdering the central location of Publisher, and the facilities it offers. Shall put the idea forteh to my users at PIS and let's get it rolling! Date: 12-16-88 (23:13) Number: 112 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: TODD LEONARD Read: NO Subj: FILE TRANSFERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I just tried using Kermit to transfer a single file, and it failed twice Y-Modem Batch worked fine. Since it's an external protocol, perhaps there was trouble calling the program from the BBS software. Date: 12-16-88 (23:14) Number: 113 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GERALD WASILUK Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: PS/2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Does anyone know how to choose memory boards for the IBM ps/2 computers that will work with Ventura 2.0 Professional Extension? I've been told that choosing boards is tricky, especially if Ventura does nots not provide a driver. Any ideas? Thanks. Date: 12-16-88 (23:16) Number: 114 To: GEORGE WEINERT Refer#: 112 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: DOING FINE... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE George, We placed the announcement of the Downtown Chicago group in the October issue at the last minute. Note that two groups are listed for Chicago in the issue. The next one will indicate a differentation in towns (Des Plaines vs Chicago). I stopped in for a visit on Publisher last week and uploaded part of the Adobe Screen font set for your users. I'll upload the missing fou files as soon as I can. I've been busy and have not had the time. My Netmail setup should be running by now, but I have not got a Fido addres yet. Note that I'm installing Binkley the OPUS way and can accept mail 2 hours a day. I'll call your board later in the week to upload the remaining par of the Adobe set. Gene R... Date: 12-16-88 (23:18) Number: 115 To: GEORGE WEINERT Refer#: 113 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: DOING FINE... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Good...let me know how your doing and give me a voice call if you have problems. Date: 12-16-88 (23:19) Number: 116 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: VERSION 2.0 UPGRADE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ******************* VERSION 2.0 UPGRADE ************************** In response to several message placed on the Forum by Chris Johnson (VPUGH), Bob Moody contacted Xerox to determine the schedule for shippin Version 2.0 to users. Chris reported that copies of Version 2.0 were already on dealer shelves in Houston. According to Xerox, letters were shipped to users on Friday, October 14th, 1988. The package included a registration form for 2.0, a copy of the newest edition of the 5th Mode Newsletter, and instructions for shipping Ventura Publisher Disk #1 to Xerox. Users should get the packag in the mail this week. Users who have questions about this policy can call (800) 822-8221 for assitance or direct inquiries to: Xerox Corporation, Attn: Ventura Upgrade Coordinator, P.O. Box 660512, Mail Stop MS-179, Dallas, TX 75266-0512. Processing times for orders received early will be 3-4 weeks and 4-6 weeks for orders which are not shipped within the first week that the package arrives. Users who have not registered their copy of Xerox 1.1 can do so at the same time. Instructions for doing so are included in the 5th Mode Newsletter shipped in the package. The version 1.1 upgrade card must be shipped along with the version 2.0 upgrade response information. Xerox requires that a copy of Disk #1 be shipped with the package (original disk -- not copy), so backup your #1 disk if you think you may need to re-install the system. This message entered by Sysop for Bob Moody, Ventura Publisher Users Group (VPUG Central). cc: Chris Johnson Date: 12-16-88 (23:22) Number: 117 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BARBE BRADLEY Read: (N/A) Subj: PROBLEMS WITH VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have been having multiple problems with VP 2.0 date 9/21-9/22. First selected Gem Graphs will not print that printed in VP 1.1 patch 2. Of 8 graphs 8 have decided not to print when all graphs on pages before and after will print. Second, printing files to a postscript file name will not work after printing to file. These both occur on a variety of machines and a variety of configuations. Third, after entering an ASCII code and then making the ASCII character a symbol font it was copied and placed in a new place. The text after that turned to symbol because I had not gotten the end coding. I highlighted the text and clicked on normal and the text went crazy. Giving me an internal system error 82, clicking on quit, it gave me an internal system error of 8 and ctrl-alt-del took me out of the loop. Fourth, every time I start VP 2.0 I get a message saying that VP can't find the selected style sheet. Fifth, a file done in VP 1.0 was loaded and the .img images gave a message of being in the wrong format, even though they had worked before They loaded fine in MegaScan. I tried saving them in MegaScan and the loading them. They still would not load. I tried saving them as .pcx and they would not load. I put them in the MegaBuffer and left the program. I went back into MegaScan and then saved them fresh as .pcx files and they loaded. Reloading the images into frames that had been scaled was a problem in that then they had a scale value of 0.00 when th empty frame was left on the page. i.e. the image wouldn't load so I continued the operation and tried to load the frame left on the page wit the new resaved image... the frame left with no image in it had a scale value of 0.00 and the system would crash everytime unless I created a ne frame to put the image in. The images were PC Qwik Art Images. Other than these problems I am really excited about VPO VP 2.0 and just love all of the new feature. The copy of VP 2.0 is the beta copy for Advanced Vision Research where I have a contract for desktop publishing. Bob Moody said he felt the version dated 9/21-9/22 was stable enough for production so I've switched and am now stuck with some real problems. The postscript problem happened on more than one machine with a variety of setup. The file prints fine to a regular postscript printer but when printed to file it doesn't print the eps file. I tried saving the gem graph pages to postscipt file and then printing it but that wouldn't work either. HELP! Barbe Bradley Date: 12-16-88 (23:24) Number: 118 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Read: YES Subj: GETTING UPGRADED Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE It is not clear how I can upgrade from my current status to log on as a member of VPUG. I am currently a subscriber and member. THanks, Alan Blumenthal. Date: 12-16-88 (23:25) Number: 119 To: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: GETTING UPGRADED Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The process is automatic. Subscriber's access rights are updated twice a day by VPUG. Date: 12-16-88 (23:27) Number: 120 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: MESSAGE BASE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The access rights of most users was upgraded recently. All users can see most messages passing through the system now if they want to. Select the "U" option from the Message menu to upgrade the message folders. More options now appear on the screen. Add the balance of the message folders to your list to view the other messages. Currently, only beta test and private communication messages between VPUG, the Chapter officers and Ventura Software are concealed. PROGRESS ON MISSING SERVICES * NetMail is currently being tested and should be on-line shortly. * Echomail services will be added once NetMail is fully debugged. We will be carrying the LaserPub Echo and transmitting a VP specific echo from here. * Separate conferences will be opened as soon as we get more voluntee to serve as conference monitors. VPUG will monitor a Ventura specif conference which will be fed to the new echo. Several volunteers ha come forward to serve as monitors for the other sessions. If you're interested in helping please let us know. The first conferences -- one on Ventura and another on graphics -- will go on line when Netmail service begins later this week. Thanks for your patience... Date: 12-16-88 (23:30) Number: 121 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DON WILKES Read: (N/A) Subj: HPGL PROBLEMS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have not yet received patch 2, and I'm having trouble with importing HPGL files from Harvard Graphics, in "high-resolution" mode. All lines and text look like they're drawn with a REALLY fat pen. Anyone have any suggestions? I can use PostScript, but of course I can't see the graph onscreen, which obviates using BoxText to annotate anything. This is my first time at a BBS system, so please have a little patience if I'm in the wrong conference or whatever... \Don Wilkes, Victoria, B.C. Date: 12-16-88 (23:33) Number: 122 To: GERALD WASILUK Refer#: 115 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: NO Subj: PS/2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gerald: In response to your question about memory boards, here are some thoughts. I have used several expanded memory boards in my AT compatible computer, and Ventura has proven to be very well behaved. I don't believe that Ventura has any special requirements concerning memory -- if it is there, if the chips are good, and if it is installed correctly (as expanded memory), Ventura will find it and use it. Now, what I am not sure about is if there are any special requirements, given the fact that your machine is a PS/2. Ironically, PS/2s are in some ways not as IBM compatible as XT and AT clones. If the PS/2 doesn't impose any restrictions on memory boards, you're in the clear. I decided not to spend the $500 or so on an EMS 4.0 board. When I spend money like that, it will be toward a 386. Instead, I purchased a $100 Everex board (3.2 spec) and filled it with 2 megabytes of 120 nanosecond memory. Ventura sees it and uses it to full advantage. To sum up, find out if there are PS/2 restrictions; you are not likely to find any Ventura restrictions. Rick Altman Date: 12-16-88 (23:41) Number: 123 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TOM ATWOOD Read: (N/A) Subj: FRAME TOO COMPLEX.... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Assistance requested with "frame too complex" problem. Can anyone help with this? Trying to create a catalog with 7/8.5 type, 4 "vertical tabbed" paragraphs across a column (using "space in" L&R with breaks). The page has a two column format, 22 picas width and 59,06 high. In spite of the relative scarcity of tabs, the thick formatting is resulting in too many line elements for the 22 pica columns to handle. (One reading showed 48 out of 725 line elements remaining, insufficient to completely format the frame.) The solutions offered by the Reference Manual and certain books, claiming to preserve automation in page generation, don't work. They involve loading text onto the underlying page, drawing a frame over the right column, and loading the textfile into BOTH (sic). One is then asked to designate the regular frame as a repeating frame, etc. In my experi- ence, one textfile cannot be loaded into both the underlying frame and a regular frame, as these sources advise. Plus, don't repeating frames merely display the text in the first one? Anyway, I tried this solution with frustrating results to say the least. I have reason to believe that this textfile, in any frame the size of these columns, will be too complex to format. Because I'm following specs, adjustment of the number or size of columns is unlikely. I realize that I may have to use "line snap" to draw two frames per column, and copy them manually through as many manually inserted pages as it takes. As this is an 8 page catalog, it's acceptable for the present; but there are similar 80 page catalogs to do in the near future, and I could use some assistance. Is there a genuine solution to this problem that will preserve the automated generation of pages? If so, please respond by leaving a message for me on this board. Much obliged. Tom Atwood Date: 12-16-88 (23:37) Number: 124 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TOM ATWOOD Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: FRAME TOO COMPLEX MESSAGE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gerald: In response to your question about memory boards, here are some thoughts. I have used several expanded memory boards in my AT compatible computer, and Ventura has proven to be very well behaved. I don't believe that Ventura has any special requirements concerning memory -- if it is there, if the chips are good, and if it is installed correctly (as expanded memory), Ventura will find it and use it. Now, what I am not sure about is if there are any special requirements, given the fact that your machine is a PS/2. Ironically, PS/2s are in some ways not as IBM compatible as XT and AT clones. If the PS/2 doesn't impose any restrictions on memory boards, you're in the clear. I decided not to spend the $500 or so on an EMS 4.0 board. When I spend money like that, it will be toward a 386. Instead, I purchased a $100 Everex board (3.2 spec) and filled it with 2 megabytes of 120 nanosecond memory. Ventura sees it and uses it to full advantage. To sum up, find out if there are PS/2 restrictions; you are not likely to find any Ventura restrictions. Rick Altman Reply from message #195. Assistance requested with "frame too complex" problem. Can anyone help with this? Trying to create a catalog with 7/8.5 type, 4 "vertical tabbed" paragraphs across a column (using "space in" L&R with breaks). The page has a two column format, 22 picas width and 59,06 high. In spite of the relative scarcity of tabs, the thick formatting is resulting in too many line elements for the 22 pica columns to handle. (One reading showed 48 out of 725 line elements remaining, insufficient to completely format the frame.) The solutions offered by the Reference Manual and certain books, claiming to preserve automation in page generation, don't work. They involve loading text onto the underlying page, drawing a frame over the right column, and loading the textfile into BOTH (sic). One is then asked to designate the regular frame as a repeating frame, etc. In my experi- ence, one textfile cannot be loaded into both the underlying frame and a regular frame, as these sources advise. Plus, don't repeating frames merely display the text in the first one? Anyway, I tried this solution with frustrating results to say the least. I have reason to believe that this textfile, in any frame the size of these columns, will be too complex to format. Because I'm following specs, adjustment of the number or size of columns is unlikely. I realize that I may have to use "line snap" to draw two frames per column, and copy them manually through as many manually inserted pages as it takes. As this is an 8 page catalog, it's acceptable for the present; but there are similar 80 page catalogs to do in the near future, and I could use some assistance. Is there a genuine solution to this problem that will preserve the automated generation of pages? If so, please respond by leaving a message for me on this board. Much obliged. Tom Atwood cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-16-88 (23:51) Number: 125 To: TOM ATWOOD Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: FRAME TOO COMPLEX MESSAGE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Tom, In the July/August 1987 edition of Ventura Publishes, Lee Jay Lorenzo from Ventura Software and Ted Nace jointly contributed articles on Memor management for underlying pages and frames. Ted identified the purpose and use of the fields appearing on the Diagnostic Box and Lee gave a typical example of a user who was experiencing a problem similar to yours. Try to get a copy from another VPUG member or call Christina at VPUG to check about getting that issue. Many of the old 1987 files will eventually go on line here on the Forum as soon as a larger system is installed. Here are some notes from that article: 1) An unlimited number of frames can be placed on a single underlying page. 2) If a file containing many formatted paragraphs consisting of small type exists, and you cannot print the entire chapter, do this: a) The number of line elements is determined by the amount of para- graphs, tabs and newline characters in use. Some of these char- acters use more line elements that others. b) Try using Newline characters (Ctrl-Enter) instead of paragraphs to mark your tags. Many former paragraphs can be interconnected this way at a significant savings in line elements. c) Break the existing text file into multiple text files and load them separately into frames within the same chapter. You can make text flow from one underlying page or frame to another by selecting the second (or third...n) frame in Frame mode, then select the same file from the File Listing on the left side of the screen. d) The message you are seeing can appear for a number of memory associated problems. The use of the /A= switch, a reduction in the number of screen fonts you have loaded into memory (if you have more than normal) and a change to a different monitor may allow you to print the chapter. These factors all influence the amount of External Memory listed in the Diagnostics Box and thi is typically the culprit which causes the message to appear (no in all cases). Switching from a color to a monochrome monitor makes additional memory available for Ventura. Color and some high resolution monitors use a lot of memory, reducing the amou of External Memory available for loading complex chapters files Leave me a message if these guidelines don't help. I may be able to find a text file or the original chapter files for the two articles I mentioned. Date: 12-16-88 (23:53) Number: 126 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DEIRDRE' STRAUGHAN Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VP 2.0 SAVES...ODDLY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I've been working with 2.0 for two days now, and am already annoyed. My file management system consists of separate directories and subdirectories for my WP files and anything-else-that-goes-with-the chapter (.CHP, .CIF and .VGR and .CAP files go into \typeset or its subdirectories. So, when creating a chapter in 2.0, as usual I pull a text file from somewhere under \WP, and a stylesheet from \Typeset\style But when I save, instead of saving the text back where it came from, 2.0 is creating a new text file, with a .TXT extension, and saving it along with the chapter etc. in my \typeset directory. Is this a bug, or do I have to rethink my file management system? I hate to change a groove that's working for me, and it seems 2.0 will force me to. Any ideas? cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-16-88 (23:55) Number: 127 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RICHARD ERNEST Read: (N/A) Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD SALE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am selling the latest version of the LaserMaster C.A.P. card with LM-3 Fonts. These fonts are postscript compatible. In addition I am selling to more type faces with the LaserMaster. The price is $1,000.00 for everything. If you are interested send a message to Richard Ernest or you can reach me by calling (415) 557-9638 during the day; or at night my number is (415) 861-1581.. This upgraded version lists for $2,495.0 If you would like to see a demo of this you can come to my house as it i set up. Thanks. Richard Ernest. Date: 12-16-88 (23:57) Number: 128 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: (N/A) Subj: UPLOAD OF MEMTEST2.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I recently had problem with one of our PCs which has 5meg of extended (A style) memory. We were getting memory error and had a hard time finding the bad chip. I found this program, MEMTEST2, to be very useful for this kind of problem. It will test all types of memory (regular/extended/expanded) and with the proper option it can tell you which chip might be bad. I hope you find this utility useful. Date: 12-16-88 (23:59) Number: 129 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: SHAWN INGRAM Read: YES Subj: COLUMBUS VPUG CHAPTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I can't remember if I left you the information on me so that you could send me the info on starting a Columbus Ohio Chapter of VPUG.. Following is my address and bbs information: Information Exchange P.O. Box 32497 Columbus, OH 43232-0497 Information Exchange Online Information System (614) 863-9065 1200/2400/9600 bps 8-N-1 24 Hours, 7 Days a Week 160 Meg Online National Fidonet DTP Conference Soft Font File Area Ventura/Pagemaker Utility File Area Clip Art File Area Laser Utilities File Area Also, are you still interested in swapping disks?? And finally, yo mentioned starting a National Fidonet Ventura Echomail Conference... What is the status of that, I am very interested... See ya... Shawn.... Date: 12-17-88 (00:03) Number: 130 To: SHAWN INGRAM Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: COLUMBUS VPUG CHAPTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Shawn, I installed a QBBS front-end and BinkleyTerm to WildCat! and have i running as a live program on my new system. I'm still waiting for a Node Number. They're a bit slow out here processing the numbers. Leave me you FidoNet address. I'm trying to find enough interested Sysops who are willing to carry the Echo. I have 9 so far and will be polling other boards once the number comes through. Sure I'm still interested in swapping files. As I remember, you spoke about trading files from Kelly Drown's old board. Say the word and I'll ship a set of disks to your P.O. Box. Thanks...Gene R. Date: 12-17-88 (00:04) Number: 131 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: SHAWN INGRAM Read: NO Subj: COLUMBUS VPUG CHAPTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, Ship away... I am running short on disks so if you could ship your to me, I will in turn backup mine onto your disks and ship them back.. As for the Ventura Conference and my node number, I would be very much interested... My node number is 1:226/100... Just last Saturday, myself and the Net Coordinator of Net 226 was talking about going ahead and starting the Ventura Conference Locally and then tying in with yours as soon as you get it started... If you would like, we can help moderat or if you are hard pressed for time, we would be more than happy to moderating it ourselves... His node number is 1:226/10 and his name is Tom Martin... If I start the VPUG chapter here in Columbus he will be helping me with the setup... He has also recognized the need for DTP support in the Columbus area.... Thanks... See ya... Shawn.... Date: 12-17-88 (00:08) Number: 132 To: TOM ATWOOD Refer#: 126 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: FRAME TOO COMPLEX MESSAGE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE This is an after though on my previous response. By connecting a hercule compatible or cga monitor to your system, at least temporarily, you may be able to change memory status enough to correct the problem for printing. A CGA monitor uses the least amount of system memory. By installing one, you can free up additional memory for Ventura and the chapter may load sucessfully. Give me call at VPUG (408-227-4818) if you need some more help. I'll walk through the process over the phone. If I'm not in, leave a message with Christina. She always knows where I am and I will return your call. ...Gene Date: 12-17-88 (00:12) Number: 133 To: DEIRDRE' STRAUGHAN Refer#: 128 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: VP 2.0 SAVES...ODDLY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Deirdre' I don't have a copy of Word Perfect here so I can't simulate the problem. It should not do that though. We routinely use VP 2.0 now and quite a few WordPerfect files are used when printing the magazine. I've copied this message to John Grant and John Meyer from Ventura Software. They may have some answers. I'll check out the problem myself as soon as I can. cc: John Grant John Meyer Date: 12-17-88 (00:17) Number: 134 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: VERSION 2.0 UPGRADE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Well, I was waiting to reply to Moody's message till I got my upgrade notice from Xerox - Dallas. It arrived today and was postmarked the 19th of October. There was a letter and upgrade form, no copy of the Newsletter. Only the letter, not the form, mention sending in Original Ventura Disk #1, so I can bet that is going cause some people to foul up. Gonna get mine in the mail tonight, so it will arrive in Dallas early Monday morning. Gonna absolutely KILL me to send back DISK 1. As matter of principle, I have absolutely refuse to do that in the past. I am sort of a "completist(sp?)". I derive great pleasure from many complete packages of software including older version As discussed, you should see my stack of various versions of Wordstar. Normally, I will buy another copy before I will send a disk in. I thought that is what registering did for you. I mean avoid having to return the disk. But, even though I have one of the famous "coupons," I cannot afford the $395. so I guess Disk #1 is gonna bite the dust. I bet I shed a tear whe I mail it. Also proof of purchase for the free upgrade is really tacky, too. If I hadn't failed to receive my credit card bill with the current Ventura copy on it, I would have trashed the receipt. If I kept every software receipt, I would be neck high in paper. Really seems like Xerox went out of their way to make this upgrade as painful and burdensome as possible. They seem to be acting like Lotus Of course, Lotus requires return of Disk #1. Suppose that is where Xerox learned it. Oh, well, enough spouting off. I love Ventura and wish only the best for the product. That why some of this stuff, which I feel really hurts Ventura's image and user morale (like tardy upgrade notice), gets under my skin so much. I withdraw my previous comment about the Ventura connection being in Ventura's best interest. I just hope they don't kill it with stuff like the above over the years. Just like I feel Lotus may be mortally wounded by the Ver. 3 fiasco, even if she doesn't die for years. Chris Date: 12-17-88 (00:19) Number: 135 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: NONE From: STEPHEN HUENERS Read: YES Subj: VERSION 2.0 UPGRADE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Allow me to add my electronic voice to all who feel offended by the way Xerox is handleing the upgrade. To have a peice of software available fo retail but not to current users is so ludicrous and cynical it's boggling. There simply can not be a positive way to look at this. The people at Xerox telemarketing need to get thier act together as well On several seperate occasions I've been given diametrilly opposing versions of how update request are being handled - one person will ginve the specific instructions on how to proceed (mail in disk #1; written request; proof of purchase, etc.) and adds that the upgrade is currently shipping. Another person says that no, the update requests will not be processed until early Nov. and no upgrades are currently shipping. Is it asking too much, as a subscriber of Xerox's support package, to expect to be notified and updated simoltaniously as retail users? I love the program and enjoy speaking well of it to others. I believe my "word of mouth" support has resulted in the sales of at least 4 copies o the software. Not a huge deal, and I don't expect any sort of compensation. But now to be treated this way....do you think my enthusiasm for the product has been dampened?!!! Further, this sort of treatment for the installed base appears to be the norm rather than the exception! Case in point is the handling of both patches, #2 of which causes more problems than it solves. Is Xerox doing anything other than shootng itself in the foot, or are they taking a pag form IBM's book and simply not concerning themselves with the best inter of the installed base? Date: 12-17-88 (01:24) Number: 136 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JIM ALEXANDER Read: NO Subj: LOOKS GREAT... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene, Thought I would stop in and see how the FORUM looks. Seems to be very popular and looks great. I will gladly send you some Quik-Art to place here for Free Public Access. Just let me know houw much space you can spare and I will put together a selection. I am sure you are going to Comdex so I will make sure I look you up. The number to our BBS is 404-353-1694..... give it a call and I will set you up for access. I keep quite a large number of hi-res color images on there. Later, Jim Alexander....PC Quik-Art, Inc. Date: 12-17-88 (01:26) Number: 137 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ROBERT THOMAS Read: NO Subj: DALLAS NPE BOARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene Spoke with Ed about a Dallas board that wants to join the NPE.He says that you have one in mind. Could you leave a message with the name and number so that I can forward it on. Thanks..... Date: 12-17-88 (01:29) Number: 138 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: STEVE SANDERS Read: NO Subj: NOVEMBER WYSIWYG MAGAZINE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene: Got a UPS package Friday with the Ventura Publishes... magazines. Thanks - they look great! I just about have the November issue done, will be a copy in the mail along with a disk for your BBS soon. Cheers for now... Date: 12-17-88 (01:31) Number: 139 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DENIS LATKOWSKI Read: (N/A) Subj: UPLOAD OF DESIGNER1.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE DESIGNR1.ARC contains a headline font (GREEN) Greenbay originally for th Imagewrite. I used First Pub to create a Mac file, converted it to .MSP using Keith Graham''s OPTIKS, and then used Designer's tracing features to create the headline font. It (hopefully) can be used to create a font saved in Window's Metafile format for use in Ventura. Have had problems using the patched 1.1 Ventura for converting .WMF files. Perhaps this will be corrected in 2.0 The other three .DRW files are tracings done from bit-mapped clipart. I am not an artist, but Designer lets me "pretend" to be one. Date: 12-17-88 (01:33) Number: 140 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JIM ALEXANDER Read: YES Subj: COMDEX SHOW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks Gene, Let me know the location and room number and time when you find out. Le me know if there is any particular category of clip-art you would like t have on the FORUM so I can put it together. Thanks, Jim Alexander Date: 12-17-88 (01:34) Number: 141 To: STEPHEN HUENERS Refer#: 137 From: JIM ALEXANDER Read: NO Subj: VERSION 2.0 UPGRADE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I would like to add my comments to the horrible way in which Xerox is handling the upgrade process. My company is the oldest third party developer for Xerox Ventura Publisher. We produced the first Clip-Art packages for Ventura Publisher and still maintain thae largest library o electronic Clip-Art in the computer industry. We also produce The Graphics Link and The Graphics Link Plus which were the first conversion programs for converting graphics file formats so that VP users could hav access to all the varied file formats in the industry. We even went so far as to purchase a REAL copy of VP ver 1.0 in the beginning and not be so crass as to ask for a "developers copy" or "evaluation copy" as most people working on software do. AND HOW ARE WE REWARDED FOR ALL OF OUR SUPPORT AND WORK. A LOCAL COMPUTER STORE IN ATLANTA HAS VP2.0 IN STOCK AND FOR SALE BEFORE I EVEN GET A NOTICE FOR THE UPGRADE. WHEN I CALL VP SUPPORT GUESS WHAT I GET, SOME HALF-WIT WITH THE SAME OLD EXCUSE,,, "I DON'T KNOW", "I CAN'T DO ANYTHING", "YOU'LL HAVE TO WAIT 2 TO THREE WEEKS FOR THE UPGRADE NOTICE AND THEN WAIT 4 TO 6 WEEKS FOR THE UPGRADE TO ARRIVE".... WHY DIDN'T THEY JUST SAY, "WE ARE ONLY HERE TO STALL YOU BY WASTING YOUR TIME UNTIL XEROX DOES WHAT THEY WANT TO ANYWAY AND WE DON'T CARE IF YOU WERE THE FIRST COMPANY TO SUPPORT VENTURA PUBLISHER AND ARE STILL PRODUCING SOFTWARE FOR SUPPORT OF VENTURA PUBLISHER, WE DON'T NEED YOUR SUPPORT BECAUSE WE PRODUCE THE MOST COMPLETE PUBLISHING PACKAGE IN THE INDUSTRY AND IF WE DON'T HAVE IT IN OUR PACKAGE THE OUR CUSTOMERS DON'T NEED IT!!! NOW I HAVE TO GO TO COMDEX AND DISPLAY MY LATEST SOFTWARE AND ONLY HOPE THAT THINGS ARE STIL COMPATIBLE WITH VP2.0 OR GO OUT AND INVEST MORE MONEY IN XEROX AND PURCHASE ANOTHER PACKAGE, WHICH IS PROBABLY WHAT XEROX HOPES EVERYONE IN MY POSITION WILL DO ANYWAY......... COMPLETELY DISGUSTED,,, JIM ALEXANDER PRESIDENT PC QUIK-ART, INC. cc: John Meyer Date: 12-17-88 (01:37) Number: 142 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: SHAWN INGRAM Read: NO Subj: VENTURA ECHOMAIL CONF. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, There is no rush on the disks.. I may have to wait until I get a Perstor Controller to put them online... When I started out, I never dreamed that 160 Meg would run out keeping my personal software and the board software online, but it seems that you can never have enough space!! The Perstor should give me about 300 meg total to play around with... As for the VENTURA conference, Tom and I have already started one locally and have plans to combine with yours as soon as it is established.. As for NPE support, do you think we should start it as an NPE echo help with all of the software with emphasis on Ventura?? I think that possibly the largest problem with NPE's scheptacism may be that most of the NPE boards that I have seen are not directly echomail compatible and therefore could be part of the problem... I would howeve like to see a DTP area to be echoed only between the NPE boards.. That would enhance the communication that Ed has already established with his newsletter... As for switching software, have you ever thought about going 100% QuickBBS?? That is what I am running here in Columbus and with the help of a program called DMA (Door Master Advanced) I am setting up PC Board' ProDoor utility as a door off of Quick.. If you are interested in setting up QBBS, let me know... Between myself and Tom Martin, we have tons of QuickBBS utils... Shawn... Date: 12-17-88 (01:39) Number: 143 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ALBERT VANN Read: NO Subj: DRIVE4.ARC PROBLEM Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE When I was on the system yesterday I down loaded drive4.arc. When I unar this file, its indicates there is something wrong with it. Can someone check to see if this can be fixed. Everything else I down loaded unarced just fine. Thank you have a nice day. Let me know when and if it can be fixed. Al Date: 12-17-88 (01:42) Number: 144 To: JIM ALEXANDER Refer#: 142 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: COMDEX SHOW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I called over to VPUG to get the room numbers. We'll be staying at the Alladin. We have a suite reserved, but can't get the room numbers until Tuesday. I'll give your board a call then. Select what you want for the clipart. The users will appreciate anything they get. I'll put a special announcement in the bulletins regarding your clipart donation and you ca upload press releases if you want. When the multi-node system goes up, all press releases will be posted in the Newsletter accessible from the Main menu. Thanks again Jim....Hope to see you soon Date: 12-17-88 (01:45) Number: 145 To: JEFF PERRY Refer#: 70 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: HELP! VENTURA & THE EGA Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Try some of the other EGA options. If your EGA board does not contain much memory, you should choose the 640X350 2 color mode. Otherwise, choose 640X350 16 color. It is unlikely that your EGA is incompatible unless it is totaly junk. .. You should try each option until you find one that works. This is not as difficult as it sounds. Simply put disk #1 from your Ventura Publisher distribution disks into the floppy drive, type VPPREP, and then after specifying your hard disk drive, answer N to "Are you installing for the first time?" Then specify your setup, select a different EGA option (select the same printer and mouse as you did during the first installation). The new installation will be finished in less than a minute. Then type VP and see if the new installation works better. Date: 12-17-88 (01:46) Number: 146 To: JIM ALEXANDER Refer#: 143 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: VERSION 2.0 UPGRADE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am very upset by the response of the user community to Xerox's handlin of the 2.0 upgrade. I have captured all correspondence on this bulletin board and am sending it to Art Coles, the VP of the Desktop Software group at Xerox in San Diego who is responsible for the marketing program If you would like to address your conerns to him directly, his address i 9745 Business Park Avenue, San Diego, CA 92131. Date: 12-17-88 (01:48) Number: 147 To: DAVID KATZ Refer#: 85 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE You're welcome to any files you need. If you require an inordinate amount, call 408-227-5030 and leave a message for me with Christina, the VPUG receptionist. We can arrange a disk swap. Date: 12-17-88 (01:50) Number: 148 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: KERN KUIPERS Read: NO Subj: THE STORY... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello, Story is that I am a member of VPUG. I got your number from "Ventura Publishes" and was wondering how I get member status on your BB Thanks for your time. . . Great board! - Kern - Date: 12-17-88 (01:57) Number: 150 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: (N/A) Subj: PS FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE On 'Set Printer Info...', I have my 'Screen Fonts' set to EGA. I also am using a PS printer. Does this mean that I already have the screen fonts for the fonts the PS printer has? If I download the screen font from this board do I change the extention to EGA? Would someone please give me some explaination as what these extentions all means. Thanks in advance. Morad Rahmani Date: 12-17-88 (02:02) Number: 152 To: CARROLL BAKER Refer#: NONE From: DEIRDRE' STRAUGHAN Read: YES Subj: UPLOAD OF BUEA.ART Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I've uploaded an article for submission to Ventura Professional! Though you might like a view of how Ventura can be used out there in the wide world. I will be out of the country (again) Nov. 10th to Dec. 26th, so contact me before I leave if you have questions or comments. Thanks, Deirdre' Date: 12-17-88 (02:03) Number: 153 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 135 From: DEIRDRE' STRAUGHAN Read: NO Subj: VP 2.0 SAVES...ODDLY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ventura Bug (maybe):I long ago created two directories, WP and TYPESET, to hold text and chapters respectively. I divided each one into identically*named subdirectories to hold files in specific categories: ADMIN, MKTG, PROPOSALS, etc. There is also a STYLE subdirectory under TYPESET to hold style sheets. With VP 1.1 there was never a problem; everything saved back to where it came from, under its original name. When I hit SAVE instead of SAVE AS on a chapter which hadn't yet been saved, I was prompted to enter a filename, and was thus kept out of trouble. But now... This has happened a couple of times, and I think I've finally got the sequence of events straight:I loaded a text file called TEAMPRC from C:\WP\MKTG. I SAVEd AS the chapter under the name PRICELST to C:\TYPESET\MKTG. I think everything went back where it came from.Still working on the chapter, I decided to remove some tags from the style sheet, and was prompted to SAVE or SAVE AS. I SAVEd, and I think (but am not sure) that that was when things went wrong. At any rate, when I exited to WP to make some global changes to the text, the TEAMPRC text file was not showing any Ventura codes or the changes I'd made. Sure enough, the revised text had been saved to C:\TYPESET\MKTG, along with the .CHP file, as PRICELST.TXT.I am pretty sure this is related somehow with the Update Tag List option, since I first had the problem in similar circumstances, complained about it in this forum, then was embarrassed to find it hadn't happened again. Now the bug is back. Any ideas?P.S. I wish 2.0 had included a better driver for the Wyse 700. It's a nice, middle)of)the)line option for those who are driven buggy by EGA but can't afford a $2,700 monitor. However, most people have a hard time reading the sidebar assignment list and sometimes the menus. The screen does look a little different in 2.0, but it's a change for the worse )) a smaller percentage of the page fits vertically at Normal View. The menus and sidebar seem to be the same size. They could easily be larger, since in Normal View there is a lot of room left in the working area. Any hope? (Gene - wasn't sure whom to send this to. You're the default option.) D. Date: 12-17-88 (02:04) Number: 154 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: (N/A) Subj: UPLOAD OF VP_PRFM.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE This file contains information on how to improve performance with Ventur Publisher version 2.0 and also how to configure your system to best use the memory that you have. Date: 12-17-88 (02:08) Number: 155 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: SHAWN INGRAM Read: NO Subj: VENTURA ECHOMAIL CONF. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, At this point and time, QuickBBS will not support multiple lines.. However, in version 3.0 which is due to be released at an ungiven date i the very near future there will be support for up to 99 nodes and a lot of the features that are in Wildcat! and some of the other non-fidonet software are supposed to be added... As for a current solution, the onl thing that I can think of is PC-Board and that is what PC-Board has had going good for it the last year or so... With the multi-node chat, etc. Once QBBS comes out with multi-node, I am hoping to add my other line.. Did you get a chance to pop the VPUG info in the mail for me?? I a looking forward and very anxious to dig into it and see what I can do fo a Columbus Chapter... Thanks for your help Shawn... Date: 12-17-88 (02:11) Number: 156 To: BOB MOODY Refer#: NONE From: DANIEL WILL-HARRIS Read: YES Subj: HELLO... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi, I just thought I'd try your board since Ted Nace was raving about it. Of course, Ted Nace is been known to simply be Ravig, but it looks good, if I don't run up too much of a phone bill. I'll get my article to you by the end of the week. -=Daniel=- Date: 12-17-88 (02:13) Number: 157 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: LOYCE REDLING Read: NO Subj: CPT 9000 SYSTEM Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE THIS IS LOYCE REDLING WITH COMPUFORMS IN SANTA CLARA. I AM INTERESTED I TALKING WITH ANY VPUG MEMBERS WHO MAY BE USING CPT 9000 DESKTOP PUBLISHING SYSTEM WITH VENTURA PUBLISHER. DAY PHONE IS 408-224-7606. EVENING & WEEKENDS CALL 408 988-3027 THIS IS QUITE AN EXPERIENCE USING THIS BBS. HOW DO I KEEP THE SCREEN FROM SCROLLING SO FAST WHEN YOU SEND DATA TO THE SCREEEN??? G THATS IT Date: 12-17-88 (02:14) Number: 158 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: NEW VENTURA SOFTWARE FILE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John Meyer from Ventura Software uploaded to new files for Version 2.0 users. These are: VPCOMPAT.ARC Ventura Software's Compatability Listing for Version 2.0. Includes all known 3rd party software and products known to work with Ventura Publisher Versio 2.0 and the Professional Extension. VP_PRFM.ARC Detailed guide about memory optimization for Version 2.0 users. Explains how to maximize the use of Expanded memory and valuable information about start switches. These files in combination with John's earlier upload "VP20.ARC" provide a good beginning library for Ventura Publisher users who have yet to install Version 2.0. ...Gene Date: 12-17-88 (02:17) Number: 159 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO Subj: MISSING PAGE NUMBER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE In general, if you have EMS memory, don't use the /A switch. In addtion, according to Don and John Grant, the /A switch may cause problems with all but the PostScript printers. If you don't have EMS memory and are running the Professional Extension, you will probably need to use the /A switch. My personal experience is that if you keep it to less than /A=16, you won't have problems with the printer drivers. /A=20 or greater will cause the TIFF converter and several other of the LOD converters to malfunction (you will get an erro message on the screen warning you of this fact). The performance and memory enhancements memo that I uploaded will give you more info . . . .. As for the Moniterm driver, I don't have access to it, but I can tell yo that the Wyse, Sigma, VGA, EGA, and MDS Genius drivers that we use at th office all work without a hitch. Date: 12-17-88 (02:21) Number: 160 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Things to check for if you get nasty messages after printing: .. 1. Have you altered the VP.BAT or VPPROF.BAT file? You should NOT use the /A switch with any printer except PostScript (i.e., don't use it wit the LaserJet). 2. Do you have at least 2 megabytes of free space on your hard disk? This is not required unless you DON'T have EMS and unless you have a large document. However, if you try to create large documents with the base VP (non-Professional) and don't have at least 2 megabytes available memory could be corrupted under extreme conditions (fairly unlikely, but possible). 3. While Ventura Publisher 2.0 can now be run from Digital Research's GEM Desktop, you must have DRI GEM version 3.1 or above. Since I'm not entirely sure about their numbering system, don't quote me on that version level. To make sure, don't run Ventura Publisher from the GEM Desktop until you have run it from the DOS prompt without having run GEM first. This way you can verify that Ventura Publisher works on its own. Date: 12-17-88 (02:39) Number: 161 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: 88 From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: POSTSCRIPT SPECIAL EFFECT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thank you for the reply. The "other" John at your shop had already replied to that message and I have already renamed pr2.eff and tried it as the postscript prolog. The outline color is magenta and cyan and yellow rotate text 90% clockwise and counterclockwise. I had asked JG is perhaps there were other similar nondocumented "goodies" that he could pass along before the VPUG Houston meeting on 24 th. I am going to participate in the demo substituting for a friend of mine at Xerox , who was called out of town. Derrick Booth and I installed the Beta Professional Edition on the domo computer and checked out the projector this evening as a matter of fact. Since I have your attention , it is obvious that I have been outspoken on the upgrade situation for current users and I was hoping to get your response to that. In addition, I convinced a friend of mine to buy Version 2 last Friday and it took him all weekend to install it properly. It kept "locking up" after he printed and saying it could not find GEMVDI. He was installing on Drive d:. He did have GEM on his system, but it was on Drive c: Also he had manually created a tree directory for Ventura that included various child subdirectories below the Ventura and perhaps Typeset subdirectories. In other word, he created these subdirectories before Ventura created its own subdirectory. He was able to install postscript all right, but when he added HP£ “‹¨µÙ6ð­ýlaserjet as a second printer, it just wouldn't work. I think he finally left it Postscript and manually copied the width and font files. He already had many more fonts that the package incudes. This guy is an extremely experienced hacker and he just kept at itnight and day, but when it worked, we could not identify what had been causing the problem. We were reluctant to conclude that the child subdirectories were the problem, but only when he erased them and let Ventura create its own subdirecties did he succeed. Just looking for some confirmation so we can warn others in VPUG Housto when they get their upgrades. I have talked your ear off enough. I won't slobber all over myself lik I did with JG. I will just say it's an honor to be talking to you. Chris Date: 12-17-88 (02:41) Number: 162 To: CARROLL BAKER Refer#: NONE From: DANIEL WILL-HARRIS Read: YES Subj: VP STAFF MAIL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Here's the type tricks article. Please give me a call to tell me you hav gotten it OK. -=Daniel=- cc: Bob Moody Date: 12-17-88 (02:42) Number: 163 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: NOVEMBER WYSIWYG Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The latest edition of Steve Sander's WYSIWYG Magazine (November 88) has arrived. Users can downloaded the Ventura formatted files for WYSIWYG from the Publications File Area. The file name is NOV88-PS.ARC. Sysop Date: 12-17-88 (02:44) Number: 164 To: MARSHALL NORRIS Refer#: 106 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: PROTOCOLS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Your communication software, the program you are using to run the modem should offer a variety of protocols for communicating with bulletin boards and other on-line services. IMODEM and XMODEM are just a few of the protocols offered on this board. New users are advised to set their user files to E for External and all below. This option allows you to select a protocol before downloading and uploading files. Different communication programs work better with specific protocols. Also if you are using PC Pursuit, you may want to use the protocols they recommend. The parameter you speak about are related to the ASCII protocol used to send text files. Check the documentation for your comm program and learn about the protocols supported. If you need help, call 408-227-5030 and leave a message with Christina. She knows where I am all the time. I'll phone you back and walk you through the process. Reply from message #186. Date: 12-17-88 (02:53) Number: 167 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DON WILKES Read: NO Subj: HPGL -- PATCH 2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Many thanks for the commentary, Gene. I've had some odd modem problems in the past we, so haven't been able to sign on. In the meantime, I got Xerox (Canada) on the phone, and they were quite prompt in sending me a copy of patch 2. I've installed it, and haven't hit anything odd so far. Naturally, I'm snowed under with projects, and still haven't had a chance to test the HPGL problem! Encapsulated PostScript has saved th day, though. \Many thanks Don Wilkes in Victoria Date: 12-17-88 (06:12) Number: 168 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BILL ENGER Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: INTRO Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello, I' just logged on for the first time, from Seattle, WA. My interest in Ventura stems from my role as Editor/Publisher of the Seattl Area AutoCAD Users' Group for the last year. We have a very active grou of over 150 menbers, and the nicest newsletter around. I'm curious to find out more about VP as a fairly new user, but hope to come up with some things of interst to upload here. Glad to find out about your existence! Bill Enger Date: 12-17-88 (06:13) Number: 169 To: BILL ENGER Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: INTRO Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bill, Thanks for calling in. You can upload anything you feel would be of use to Ventura Publisher and AutoCAD users. Seems that we have a lot of both. Do you know about NWVPUG's board in Seattle. Chad Canty and Mike Arst at Micro Publishing in Seattle host a conference for Ventura Publisher and Pagemaker users. The conference seems pretty active with over 5000 messages on the system. We will be exchanging files from time to time and I'm hoping to send Chad our Ventura Publisher Echo when we get it running next month. NWVPUG's data number is (206) 322-8655. The board runs 24 hours/7 days a week. Best regards...Gene R. Date: 12-17-88 (06:18) Number: 171 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: VPUGH BOARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Its my fault you haven't heard from Carroll Hanks. I forgot to post him a message since he was out of town. Left him one today and asked him to reply to you. Carroll really stays busy, even on weekends. The VPECHO sounds neat. Be nice to have it in Houston. Well, my VEr. 2 upgrade has not shown up. The UPS guy drove in my area of the common apart. driveway and I amost mugged him. He was coming to see someone else unfortunately. Since I got it in Dallas monday morning, was hoping for super fast response. May be disappointed like usual. A local Xerox saleman told me that Ver. 2 Professional Ext. was released on 17th, which I took to mean Oct. 17. Is that true? Chris Date: 12-17-88 (06:20) Number: 172 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: GREG STEFFEN Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'm just wondering why I'm restricted to 60 min. of online time since I' a subscriber to venturaVProfessional? Even though I haven't gotten the new magazine yet I have been a subscriber for almost years now. The first time I came on-line I was on for 120 minutes. Also, when will the PACKET1.ARC AND PACKET2.ARC files be available for downloading? Date: 12-17-88 (06:22) Number: 173 To: GREG STEFFEN Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE You have 120 minutes per day in 60 minute increments. When additional lines are installed on the system, you will have 120 minutes of continuous time. Currently, the additional lines are installed at the BB location, the rotary dialer is installed and the Novell Network software is installed on the multi-tasking system. When the 1.20 beta for the Wildcat! BBS software is in a state where problems occur infrequently, i will be placed on line. At that time, subscribers will be divided into groups for access to private nodes which will allow easier and faster access. PACKET1 and PACKET2 will only be placed on line when they are ready and when all software is installed on the system. In the past four weeks, 37 programs were installed on the system and 4 have been documented. All 37 require documentation for use and the volunteer services promised to do the documentation has not materialized. I spend 10-12 hours a day workin a normal job, four hours maintaining the BBS and the balance of the time trying to get the multi-tasking system up and running. Not much time for sleep. Call 408-227-5030 to complain and Good Luck...Gene R. Date: 12-17-88 (06:23) Number: 174 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JENIFER NECH Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VP 2.0 SCREEN CAPTURE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I need a screen capture program that will work with VP 2.0 and the Professional Extension. Date: 12-17-88 (06:24) Number: 175 To: JENIFER NECH Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: VP 2.0 SCREEN CAPTURE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Jenifer, In the way of commercial programs, HotShot Graphics, Hotshot Grab and Inset Systems' HiJaak all work with Version 2.0. You might try downloading one of the following files from the GRAPHICS file area on this board: GCAP12.ARC GEMCAP.ARC GEMCAP2.ARC The first file on the list is a Windows/GEM screen grabber which did wor with version 1.1. I have not tested it with version 2.0 yet. You may wan to do so and post a message later if it works. The second and third file are different versions of the same GEM Screen Capture program. GEMCAP2 i the latest release and it still should capture screens with no problems. If you find another screen capture program that works, post a message to let other users know about it. Thanks...Gene R. Date: 12-17-88 (06:27) Number: 176 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: FONT FILE EXTENSIONS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Several users have asked for definitions of the file extensions assigned to printer and screen fonts, and the system Ventura Publisher users to associate a given printer font with a matching screen font. The followin is a breif description. In version 1.0 and 1.01 (not many of these around), non-PostScript printer fonts were assigned a filename using a very specific syntax. For instance, the file CENT08NP.SFP, is Century SchoolBook, 8 point, Normal (Roman), Portrait orientation. The first four letters of the filename specified the font family and the balance of the character positions identified the type size, type style (N = Normal, I = Italic, B = Bold and T = Bold Italic), and the final letter defined the page orientation (P=Portrait and L=Landscape). Although it worked, this system had many limitations and made it almost impossible for font vendors to assign unique four letter combinations to identify their fonts. Note: We'll discuss PostScript last since the naming conventions are considerably different. Quite a few font developers and users complained about this system and Ventura Software developed a Font Specification for font developers to follow. All this occurred between the time period that version 1.0 and 1.1 were released (about 7 months). Ventura Software developed a system based on Font Identification Codes. Using this system, each font was assigned a 1 - 3 number code. For instance, the Swiss Font supplied with Ventura is number 2 and the Dutch Font is number 14. The numbers were assigned for several reasons. First, they offered a convenient means for identifying various type families from one another quickly and second, they offered a system for creating matching screen fonts for printer fonts. Based on this system, the printer and screen fonts are assigned matching numbers. Ventura reads a line of information called the font header to determine the type number, font size, weight and orientation. This system worked quite well and most users found few problems using th system when it was announced with version 1.1. Ventura Software also forced font developers into using the system by creating what is known a the Compatability Listing. Only font vendors which market fonts compatible with the specification as mentioned in the listing. Using the Font Specification, font developers could assign any name they wanted to fonts. Rather than using the font filename to distiguish various fonts from one another, Ventura read the Header, determined the font number, and listed the font name in the font dialog box. To make matching screen fonts, vendors produced a screen font in the desired resolution (for instance 75x75 pixels for a Wyse monitor and 91x72 pixel for a EGA monitor) and assigned it the same file name as the printer font. Different file extensions were assigned to the printer and screen fonts to determine their purpose. The following is a list of printer and screen font extensions used for various printers and screen fonts: Extension: Meaning: --------- -------------------------------------------------- .CGA Color Graphics Adapter .EGA Enhanced Graphics Adapter .VGA Virtual Graphics Adapter .PSF Adobe Screen Fonts (75 x 75 pixels) .B30 Black Write Laser Printer Fonts (HP LaserJet and most Canon Laser Engines) .W30 White Write Laser Printer Fonts (Ricoh 4080/4081 and Xerox 4045 laser engines) .SFP HP LaserJet Softfonts and compatibles, Portrait onl .SFL HP LaserJet Softfonts and compatibles, Landscape on .PFA Adobe Downloadable Fonts (ASCII) .PFB Adobe Downloadable Fonts (Binary) With the new font specification, other file extensions could be assigned to identify the special high resolution screen fonts produced by some monitor developers. For instance, Sigma Designs used the .100 file extension for 1:1 pixel ratio fonts and Cornerstone used the designation .TF1, .TF2 and .TF3 to designate the three types of fonts produced for their monitor. The system was not perfect, but it did work well for most applications. When the system was initially created, a lot of 256 numbers were reserve for assigning type family numbers. As Ventura Software eventually found out, this number was inadequate for all the different typeface families appearing on the market. For version 2.0, Ventura Software now assigns blocks of numbers to vendors to expand the basic concept exploited in th original font specification. For version 2.0, over 64,000 different typeface numbers can be assigned. Vendors assign font numbers of their own based on guidelines specified in Ventura Software documentation. Thi documentation is of a highly technical nature and will not be placed on the Forum. However, a full description of the system and the use of the Ventura Font utilities will be provided in the upcoming Font Directory which will be shipped to all subscribers of the magazine. Now for PostScript printer and screen fonts. Adobe systems uses a system of names for assigning font descriptions. The full font name for printer and screen fonts is identical and they both must contain 8 characters. When additional characters are needed to identify a fonts name, underlin characters are used to file in spaces until exactly eight characters are used. The names assigned for PostScript downloadble printer fonts and Screen fonts must be identical to the descriptions identified in Appendi K of the Ventura Reference Guide. Ventura Publisher contains an internal table which matches the Adobe Font names to the Ventura Font Specification's numbering system. (Continued in next message) Date: 12-17-88 (06:31) Number: 177 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: FONT FILE EXT. CONTINUED Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The following is the extension of the previous message with the last paragraph repeated for clarity. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Now for PostScript printer and screen fonts. Adobe systems uses a system of names for assigning font descriptions. The full font name for printer and screen fonts is identical and they both must contain 8 characters. When additional characters are needed to identify a fonts name, underlin characters are used to file in spaces until exactly eight characters are used. The names assigned for PostScript downloadble printer fonts and Screen fonts must be identical to the descriptions identified in Appendi K of the Ventura Reference Guide. Ventura Publisher contains an internal table which matches the Adobe Font names to the Ventura Font Specification's numbering system. The Adobe printer fonts resident in the printer are assigned the same names as the screen fonts available in the PostScript file area of the Forum. The screen fonts bear the .PSF file extension and the printer fonts stored in the \PSFONTS directory bear the .PFA or PFB file extensions. You really don't need to know anything about the font numbering system o the names assigned to fonts unless you plan to create them on your own. When purchasing fonts, be sure to ask for matching printer and screen fonts. Font developers will then sell you the correct fonts for Ventura Publisher. To determine if the printer and screen fonts match or not, compare the filenames. They should be the same and the file extensions should identify their purpose or intended use. As soon as we get some time, a list of valid font description numbers will be placed on the Forum to help users with identifying fonts. An edited version of the Ventura Font Specification without all the technical terminology will also be placed on the board and updated on a periodic basis. A few additional notes. Multiple sets of screen and printer fonts can exist in the \VENTURA directory. The screen device driver specified in the VP.BAT or VPPROF.BAT file determines which screen driver and set of screen fonts are in use. For instance, if the screen driver is SD_1NNL1.VGA, then VGA screen fonts will be used. It is possible to copy the original VP.BAT or VPPROF.BAT file, edit it and change the screen driver or file extension to setup Ventura for different screen drivers o sets of screen fonts. For example, the code SD_1NNL1.EGA could be entere to force a Viking I monitor to use EGA fonts instead of VGA fonts. Similarly, the .PSF file extension could be assigned to start the Viking Monitor with the PostScript screen fonts available on the Forum. Note that the ability to change the screen drivers file extension works well in version 2.0 and may not work correctly in version 1.1 depending on th file extension name assigned. For example, you cannot change EGA to VGA in Version 1.1. Ventura seemingly will not start. You can correct this problem by deleting the VP.INF file in the \VENTURA directory. This file contains the Preferences and information about file directories in use that you created when using Ventura. If you erase VP.INF, you will need to reset your preferences, but Ventura will startup using the screen fonts you specify. Note the discussion in this paragraph deals with changing the default screen fonts in use. You can still change screen fonts by editing the SCREEN FONTS field in the Printer Info Dialog Box. Unlike the screen drivers, the printer fonts in use are determined by th width table selected for a given printer driver. Some printers use several different font types. The width table created for each font type determines which fonts will be used with the driver. Information about the file extension assigned to the printer fonts is present in the width table. By taking advantage of this system, you can use multiple types of printers fonts and printer drivers within the Ventura directory. Date: 12-17-88 (06:34) Number: 178 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BILL LAMP'L Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: QUESTION? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello from a new user.....mind if I plunge in with a question? Often when I try to move or delete a single frame, half the page moves o deletes along with it. What's happening, and how can I "detatch" the single frame. I'm interested in so that it can be moved/deleted? Thank you. (sorry for the long distance garbage). Date: 12-17-88 (06:38) Number: 179 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: PETER CONRAD Read: NO Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, . I am the Computer Manager of Harbin Springs Publishing. We are subscribers to Ventura Publishes and belong to VPUG. We are in lake county and can,t come to the meetings much so I thought I,d try to log o here. I see that we can get extra time. The manager of DTP is Libby (Hillman) Baltrusch and she is the VPUG member for our company. (Renewed 8/12/88). Hope that info helps to verify us. Nice board. . We are planning to replace our JLaser board soon, where can I find info on Postscript boards for our AT and NCR (Old Canon engine) Laser? Just point me to the area of your BBS. . I read in Ventura Publishes about the forum and tried to DL PACKET1.ARC PACKET2.ARC but got a message that they couldn't be found. Is there a manual on use of this BBS? . Enough questions for now --see you again. . .-Peter Date: 12-17-88 (06:45) Number: 180 To: BILL ENGER Refer#: 170 From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: NO Subj: INTRO Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bill, Hello and Welcome! I too am new, signed on last week, and this is my 5th call, I call from Clear Lake !A and let me tell you, I've learned a lot just reading the messages. Happy VPing! Date: 12-17-88 (06:50) Number: 182 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: 136 From: DENIS LATKOWSKI Read: YES Subj: VERSION 2.0 UPGRADE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I too have been anxiously awaiting UPS since Oct 18 when I learned that my upgrade had been mailed on Oct 17 and I'm still waiting. A second cal to Mrs Coffee confirmed it had been mailed on the 17th but sometimes it can 10 business days for delivery (from Texas to Baltimore? Xerox must b using the pony express). Talk about depression when UPS didn't appear on Friday. Maybe Monday? Date: 12-17-88 (06:59) Number: 184 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ALAN NIVEN Read: NO Subj: POSTBOARD'S NUMBER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene your right the is an error in PostBoard's number. The number listed is Arena Press's voice number. The real PostBoard number is 707-882-2390 thanks again for the listing. Date: 12-17-88 (07:00) Number: 185 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: BARBE BRADLEY Read: YES Subj: THANKS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, The board is great. This must have taken hours of blood, sweat and tears. Keep up the good work and THANKS. Barbe Date: 12-17-88 (07:01) Number: 186 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DAVID GELLER Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Very impressive BBS. I hope to be a frequent user and upload some of the software being developed at Electric Logic, Inc. to assist Ventura publishers. We're a 2.0/Professional site and will add comments and news to the board to assist other members. I am also the chairman for the Capital PC User Group (5,800 members) Desktop Publisher SIG (special interest group) (250 members) in Washington, D.C. and will soon be chairing a Ventura Forum on Compuserve. Looking forward to continued contact with your group.--- David Geller. Date: 12-17-88 (07:09) Number: 189 To: TED NACE Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: LASERMASTER CAPCARD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sorry I didn't reply earlier, but you entire message consisted of the letter"h" in lowercase. I recognized you name if you are the fellow associated with Laserjet Unlimited and Ventura Tips and Traps. I am proud to own both (actually 3 if you count two editions of LJ Unlimited). I am becomming a bit of a fan to the extent I look at any book that has your name on it. And I have vitually stopped buying computer help books as I have shelves full of them and little money. If you wanted to chat, give me a holler again as we would say in Texas. Chris Date: 12-17-88 (07:19) Number: 194 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ROGER FIRTH Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: XYWRITE FILTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE When reading/writing a XyWrite file, there is an exact correspondence between XyWrite's Bold and Underline attributes and VP's Bold and Underline attributes. What I'd like is for Bold to map exactly, but for XyWrite Underline to map onto VP Italics, for both read and write. DOes anyone know if/how this can be done? I'm running 1.2 (Version 2 still isn't available in the UK. Thanks for the help. Date: 12-17-88 (07:23) Number: 196 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: MARK WORSNOP Read: NO Subj: PROFESSIONAL MAGAZINE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Finally got into this system. Have been trying off and on since reading the number in the magazine. Looks great so far, glad to hear this type of bbs is available... How do we get set up for the 120 minute session. We do receiÿûve the magazine. The magazine is sent to my wife, Cheri Worsnop at our company Mark Systems Inc. Please let me know what ewe need to do. Thanx. Look forward to using this system. Date: 12-17-88 (07:27) Number: 198 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: MIKE NESEL Read: NO Subj: PAK10.EXE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene - I downloaded PAK10.EXE today, expecting it to be as described ("Phil Katz's latest set of archiving utilities..."). After unpacking the file, it seems to be from "NoGate Consulting" in Michigan. Unless Phil has moved and changed company names ( a possibility ), this is not from Phil Katz. Any way of verifying that this really IS a Phil Katz product? Date: 12-17-88 (07:29) Number: 199 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: STEVE SANDERS Read: NO Subj: ABOUT EARLIER WYSIWYG Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene: I found a small problem with NOV88-PS.ARC, I forgot to change the file spec for the two drop caps I used. I'm send ing up NOV88FIX.ARC which has four files NOV88.* that need to be updated into the NOV88-PS.ARC file to fix my screw-up. Thanks for the assist! Date: 12-17-88 (11:55) Number: 202 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GARY WILKERSON Read: (N/A) Subj: HP LASERJET II & VP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'm having a problem getting more than 1 inches of test to print out per page on my HP LaserJet II. All margins, etc. set to 0, page length set 11" and still no go. I've printed the same files before and they worked out fine. Any ideas? Date: 12-17-88 (12:04) Number: 205 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: (N/A) Subj: VER. 2.0 UPDATE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have been rather vocal on this board regarding what I consider the mishandling of the upgrade by Xerox in that the upgrade letters were not mailed until about 3 weeks after the product hit the retail store shelves in Houston. Well, I mailed my upgrade package at my local post office within a day after I received the notice. I waited two weeks and then called Xerox in Dallas to ascertain the status of my upgrade. Another called had been successful in doing this as reported in an earlier message on this board I wanted to relay the essence of this phone call : 1. I had called too early as it had not been six weeks since I mailed upgrade. 2.It was not necessary to ascertain where I was on the upgrade list SINCE THERE WAS NO PRODUCT IN STOCK TO SHIP ANYWAY. 3. No time table was stated to get the product in stock. 4. I could , of course, call back if I had not received my upgrade in ANOTHER FOUR WEEKS. This was from the "upgrade inquiry group." It appears that Xerox went to some difficulty to stock these lines with the least helpful people on "team xerox". I cannot claim that the lady was not nice, just not in the least helpf or sympathetic. Fortunately, I was able to contact a friend at home who works for Xerox and he relayed that the packaging for the upgrade is different from the retail version, so it was not permissable for Xerox to use a retail package for an upgrade. I bet there are plenty of retail copies in stoc (Sorry, editorial comment, please disregard). So Xerox sent out the letters without adequate stock to honor them if anyone cared to return them. As I returned mine so quick after receipt, I doubt too many folks beat me on the list but since my initial in J and they were likely sent out alphabetically, I suppose some people with initials A-I could have beat me if they returned the letter as quick as which I bet few did based on the users I have talked to. It seems to me that Xerox in making history here in terms of bad management, not to mention P.R. Shame someone doesn't write one of those "How not to do it in business" books about the Version 2 upgrade fiasco. Oh, I forgot the special upgrade packaging. I assume that means all 15 (or 16 as stated in Appendix A on the Version 2 Manual)disks crammed int one of those little boxes with no docs. . Who is gonna run a contest to find the missing Standard Edition Version 2 (excepting Fontware) disk 16? I had a really upset guy at the last VPUG Houston meeting. He just bough Version 2 and though Xerox had shorted him a disk. No kidding. Chris cc: John Meyer Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-17-88 (12:11) Number: 208 To: STEPHEN HUENERS Refer#: 59 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: TIP: SET A BALLOT BOX Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Steve, These are several other ways to create ballot boxes. Besides the ne box characters available with version 2.0, you can also create ballot boxes in these ways: A>. A user recently pointed out to me that the size of the default tex for the @Z_BOX_TEXT tag determines the size of the box placed on the screen. This user adds ballot kinds (note that shee has severa kinds) by selecting the Boxt Text option and holing down the Shift key to make multiple copies. By clicking on the left mouse button desired location, a perfectly square box appears. You can change default point size to control the size of the box. All the box tex is assigned to a small frame in the right margin. She also makes ballot boxes which already have check marks in them automatically using a similar technique. This assumes that you have a set of Zapf Dingbat fonts which have the desired check marks (there on the board here someplace). She actually creates multiple tags for ballot boxes by selecting a box text paragraph and adding a new ta The ruling line around the box is turned off and the Paragraph Rul Around feature is used instead. This allows you to control the lin thickness and shading of the ballot box line. If you take one of these tags and assign the Bullet Special effects attributes to it, you can select a Zapf Dingbat checkmark to appear as the bullet. Asterisks and other characters could also be used. B>. You can also create ballot box paragraphs where you set the In fro left spacing for a paragraph to leave room for the ballot box on left side of the paragraph. The balot box itself can be created using the Custom option on the Paragraph Ruling Line Around option To do this, set the line thickess you desire in the second field o right side of the screen (assuming you have ever selected (Custom) The use the special custom indent and line (actually box) lenght fields on the right side of the screen to control the size and position of the ballot box. You need to set a minus indent to forc the box to the left side of the paragraph. For instance, if the paragraphs In From Left Spacing is set to 4 picas, set the ruling box to appear at -4 picas. The Line lenght field is used to contro the length of the box (set it to 1 pica for a 1 pica wide box. You control the height of the box by using the second to the last fiel in the dialog box for the third line spacing. Set this value to 1 pica (acutally - 1 pica) and click on the - button to the right of field. When you click OK, the ballot box should appear in the correct location and size on your screen. You can adjust the dialog box controls further to increase or decrease the size of th box and the relative position of the box in relation to the para- graphs left margin. C>. You can also use the Ballot Box like shadowed characters in the Zapf Dingbat font set to insert a ballot box using the Bullet option. There are probably a lot more ways of doing this. Possibly, other users might have ideas... Date: 12-17-88 (12:12) Number: 209 To: STEPHEN HUENERS Refer#: 59 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: TIP: SET A BALLOT BOX Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Steven, We are going to put a hold on opening the conference areas until we se what Mustang Software is going to do about shipping a multi-node version of our BBS software. If they cannot meet our deadline, we are going to switch software. We're running out of time and need to open mor lines. They're dragging there feet and have not shipped as promised. We are considering other software now and I will give you a voice call when we make a decision. Thanks...Gene R. Date: 12-17-88 (12:15) Number: 210 To: BILL LAMP'L Refer#: 180 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: QUESTION? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Your mouse driver may be causing the problem. I use a lot of different mice when beta testing software and have discovered similar problems. When you clock on the frame or graphic to select it, the mouse sometimes responds slowly and you move the object when the mouse is moved. Check your mouse software guide for specifics. There are usually switches whic may be used to increase or decrease the mouse's response time. Newer MicroSoft mice and a few of the more recent older units running on version 6.0 or later of MOUSE.SYS seem to have this problem. The problem can also occur on a Logitech mouse if the incorrect mouse driver is used Date: 12-17-88 (12:19) Number: 211 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TOM NEUMANN Read: (N/A) Subj: UPLOAD OF ARTMART.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Original file description is error. This file contains general line art in clip art form for Ventura users. Most of the art is humerous in nature. Date: 12-17-88 (12:22) Number: 212 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 146 From: JIM ALEXANDER Read: NO Subj: COMDEX SHOW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the info. We will be sure to check in and visit while in town. No we are opting for the Xerox booth this year for a change. We may have a nice Press Release this year if Xerox follows through on a project we have been working on involving the new Xerox Presents softwar package. We are also signing Xerox's largest VAR on the west coast as o exclusive publisher for the new product. I will give you all the detail at Comdex if the deal goes through. You know I don't like to talk about things unless they are really concrete. I will bring some "clips" with me to Comdex for you to post here for free distribution to your users. The package will be too large to upload. BTW what is your FAX number at VPUG? Do you have one? FYI ours is (404)-769-8013.... Thanks, Jim Alexander Date: 12-17-88 (12:23) Number: 213 To: BOB MOODY Refer#: NONE From: DOUGLAS DETLING Read: YES Subj: VERSION 2.0 WORKSHOP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bob--Just a brief note to let you know I thought Saturday's workshop on Version 2 (particularly installation tips) was most useful. It was worth it to me just to save time installing VP 2.0/Professional Ext. when I get it. Just wish Xerox wouldn't be taking so long. I'll bet my copy of Professional Extension (which I ordered Thursday) will arrive before the upgrade from Texas. I've passed along notice of December class to a few friends, who will probably be calling soon to register. --Doug cc: Carroll Baker Date: 12-17-88 (12:24) Number: 214 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: FREEMAN BRADFORD Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: TOSHIBA 321 PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Does anyone out there have or know where I can get a Ventura driver for Toshiba P321 24 pin dot matrix printer? I user the dot matrix printer at home and it would make life easier were I able to get proof printers from it rather than having to wait until I run a printer on the laser printer at the office. Thanks. Brad. Date: 12-17-88 (12:26) Number: 215 To: FREEMAN BRADFORD Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: TOSHIBA 321 PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Freeman, Version 2.0 or at least the last beta had a P1350/P1351 driver in it. The Toshiba 321 Escape Sequences are reasonably close so that driver should run. You might want to give Xerox a call to see if the driver wil work with version 1.1. It should. Date: 12-17-88 (12:28) Number: 216 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: PAT PELTON Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I AM A SUBSCRIBER TO VENTURA PROFESSIONAL. DO I GET 120 MINUTES? Date: 12-17-88 (15:00) Number: 217 To: FREEMAN BRADFORD Refer#: 216 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: TOSHIBA 321 PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Freeman, Version 2.0 or at least the last beta had a P1350/P1351 driver in it. The Toshiba 321 Escape Sequences are reasonably close so that driver should run. You might want to give Xerox a call to see if the driver wil work with version 1.1. It should. Date: 12-17-88 (15:09) Number: 218 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DAVID TREWEEK Read: NO Subj: ATLANTA REDUX Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene. Sorry, I've been off so long. We had a publishing deadline on our latest doc project. We shipped at 2:00pm today!!! (I'm real glad it's over). So hows tricks? So far, usage is up on the BPUG-ATL BBS. Little discussion though, just directory raping. Oh Well. Maybe these guys will start talking soon. The new mag looks great...and the feature on 2.0 was terrific (no counting typos, ok?). I've got a question. Do you know of any articles which deal with hard disk management with regard to Ventura? One more thing, my wife finally got a job in DTP. Yup, she starts working at Atlanta Blueprint next week. It's all Mac based, but we both should learn something. It's kinda neat having my wife work in the same industry. Who knows, maybe I'll give her a few years to gain experience, then let her support ME! Take care Gene. I'll call back later in the week and see if I can't start a lively discussion. Adios, David Date: 12-17-88 (15:57) Number: 219 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: DB2VP.ARC UPLOADED Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Two files have been uploaded to the Forum. DB2VP.ARC contains Mark Scaramella's DB2VP.PRG program for preparing database files for Ventura Publisher. This file contains a copy of the original Ventura Publisher formatted chapters from VPUG. A second file called DB2VP101.ARC contains a short README.DOC file and the DB2VP.PRG program. Download the second file if you already have a copy of the documentation You need Ventura Publisher to print the chapter in the DB2VP.ARC file. Note that the text files were formatted using WordStar. You can convert these text files to any other format using the File Type/Rename function on the Ventura Publisher EDIT Menu. Date: 12-17-88 (15:59) Number: 220 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ROBERT LEVINE Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: PACKET1 AND PACKET2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE In the last issue of VPUG readers were urged to download Packet1.Arc and Packet2.Arc. When I tried to download them the message read, " File not found". What are these files and why can't I down load them. I subscribe to VPUG. Date: 12-17-88 (16:00) Number: 221 To: ROBERT LEVINE Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: PACKET1 AND PACKET2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bob, The files you speak about were originally created for the RBBS syste that the Forum used when the system first was started. We've since changed to Wildcat and will be changing once more when the Multi-node system is ready. Packet1 is a tutorial on using the Forum and Packet2 is a Reference Guide of commands and a explanation of file protocols used o the Forum. The new software that packet files are written for is nothing like you see now. It supports multiple conferences and everything is topic oriented. The screens you see in the documentation are not the same. Also, the new system (also a Wildcat!) supports multi-user chats, netmail, echomail conferencing, full screen message support and true message threading. Placing these files on the system now will only confuse people. Instead, we have been asking users to page the system operator whenever they need help. In most cases, someone is always here, although it may take a moment or so to answer the line sometimes. Expect to see the packets, the new system and about two dozen conference soon. I can't give you a firm date since this is in the hands of Mustang Software, the developers of the Multi-node version of Wildcat The system is here installed on another computer. Several bugs still exist and we cannot take the system up until we get the OK. Call me if you need any more information. My private voice number is 408-224-8464. Looking forward to seeing some more of your work. That peice you placed on the Forum was really interesting. If you ever have the need, leave messages here for Ventura Software. John Meyer and John Grant visit the Forum a lot. Best Regards, Gene R. Date: 12-17-88 (16:05) Number: 223 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JOHN DOW Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE i do freelance page makeup with a small publishing company. they are in need of more vp people. the work really stretches one's knowledge of vp; provides opportunity for some creative page layout and can provide longer-term revenue than many quick-and-dirty clients. if this sounds interesting, leave me a message for more info. Date: 12-17-88 (16:11) Number: 226 To: JOHN DOW Refer#: 225 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John, We're trying to come up with documentation, logon scripts and comm program directories to make it easier for first time users to log in. Bo Moody and I will be speaking to modem manufacturers at COMDEX to come up with special purchase arrangements for users. The disk library set WILL become a reality sometime after the new system goes up. Work on the multinode system is progressing much faster than we though and we hope to get it up soon. Any ideas or help would be greatly appreciated. You might want to send in a login script for your communications program if you get a chance. We will also be needing assistant sysops and a librarian soon. If you're interested please let m know. Best regards...Gene R. Date: 12-17-88 (16:21) Number: 229 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 3 From: JAY HIPPS Read: YES Subj: OKIDATA LASER PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello! I use the Okidata laser printer (Laserline 6) and the problem which is probably coming up is that they don't have the expanded memory card for the printer. This card takes the printer's memory up to 512K from about 200K, which isn't enough to do much of anything in a 300 DPI mode. It's available from Okidata or a dealer. If you have any other questions, my voice no. is (415) 332-8110. Date: 12-17-88 (16:23) Number: 230 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JANE HURFORD Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: BOOK PAGE LAYOUT WORK Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE i do freelance page makeup with a small publishing company. they are in need of more vp people. the work really stretches one's knowledge of vp; provides opportunity for some creative page layout and can provide longer-term revenue than many quick-and-dirty clients. if this sounds interesting, leave me a message for more info. Date: 12-17-88 (16:46) Number: 234 To: ROGER FIRTH Refer#: 196 From: JOHN GRANT Read: NO Subj: XYWRITE FILTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Roger, Regarding the VP/Mac fonts/Fontographer setflat problem: Take a look at PS2.PRE in \VENTURA and scan the file for instances of "setflat". The number of instances you find will depend on the version of VP you are using. The ones of interest to you are those imbedded in text processing procedures such as "gtext", "jtext", and "fjt". These procedures set the curve flatness to a fairly coarse value ("10 setflat") in order to enhance performance when "pathbbox" is executed in the "bbox" procedure. You can try removing the "10 setflat" from these procedures, but will probably suffer some degradation in performance (I'm not sure how much, nor how noticeable). I may change this in a future implementation so that setflat is performed in a gsave/grestore context inside of "bbox", but don't hold your breath by any means! It turns out that all of the Adobe fonts invoke set the curve flatness inside of the font's BuildChar procedure, anyway, so that the font may be appropriately rendered regardless of the current graphic environment. This is the approach I believe all font vendors should take to protect the font from its environment regards, jg (Ventura Software) Date: 12-17-88 (16:51) Number: 236 To: JAY HIPPS Refer#: 231 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: OKIDATA LASER PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks Jay. We've really been trying to figure out the Okidata problem for some time. We've passed your info on to the user who had the problem already. I'm going to add the solution to the new Q&A database file we are workin on along with a credit for your submission. Best Regards...Gene Date: 12-17-88 (16:53) Number: 237 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: TEMPORARY SYSOP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ÄÄÄÄ I M P O R T A N T N O T E ÄÄÄÄ The VPUG staff will be attending COMDEX FALL 88 from November 13th to the 17th. While away, the system will be operating automatically. Dick Gaskill will check on the system every morning and evening to monitor fo problems. If you have a problem downloading files, leave a message and I will respond when we get back. If the system goes down and does not come up again, call 408-227-5068 and ask for Christina or Chris. They will pass message on to someone so the system can be rebooted. Thanks...Gene R. cc: Dick Gaskill Date: 12-17-88 (17:12) Number: 244 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: 4 NEW LINES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I M P O R T A N T ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The new software for the Forum has arrived and we should have it up and running on a new system shortly before Christmas. The software will support 9 lines and may be upgraded at a later date for additional lines. A single line will be left open for public access, at least two lines will be open to VPUG members, and 2 lines will be available for subscribers to VPUG's Extended Support Service. The remaining lines are reserved for the mail system, private nodes for conference moderators and other people who help the Forum. An article on using the new system will be featured in a future issue of the magazine. VPUG members will receive news of the private telephone lines either through messages placed on the Forum or in the mail. VPUG members who are also members of VUNA (Ventura Publishers of North America) should contact the sysop. The two organizations are merging together. Very shortly, VUNA will cease to exist. Sysop Date: 12-17-88 (17:14) Number: 245 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JANE HURFORD Read: NO Subj: TED NACE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE - called ted yesterday; says he knows nothing about importing graphics. the disk is going down to john ... meanwhile, we're going to work with EPS files. which i can't see. oh well. onward and upward. hope the "rockin and rollin" stays quiet for awhile. by the way -- good article in the new issue of ventura publishes ... "breaks" take a lot of experimenting. thanx again for all yr help. Date: 12-17-88 (17:16) Number: 246 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 219 From: FREEMAN BRADFORD Read: YES Subj: SEARCH FOR PERFECT BBS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene: I have been following with interest your looking at various BBS software(s) to find one which fits. PC board is certainly one of the more popular BBS softwares out there hence would have the best chance of being the most familiar to the largest number of users. I have been looking for an elegant solution to the multiline BBS an have drawn the line (mentally) through any solution which requires a hos to run multiple copies of the BBS software in a time division multiplex such as DeskView. I also would like to find a solution which does not require a LAN to extend the multiline capabilities. The ideal software would support many (perhaps up to 32 lines) with the host machine being an XT. So far I have not found such a solution, and am (reluctantly) thinking of writing one. Did you, in your searching, run across such a beast and if so could you pass on the name, source , etc.? You are due many thanks for the obvious effort made here on hehalf of Ventura users with the current board. Brad. Date: 12-17-88 (17:18) Number: 247 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: PROGRESS WITH PICT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The problem with Windows applications like Designer and Windows Draw is the Windows Clipboard. It can only hold files of 128Kb or less. You can easily excede this limit with Designer and Draw. A conversion utility called CLIP2VP is included with version 1.1 Patch 2 and version 2.0. Instructions are in the documentation. The actual process of using the utility to make WMF (Windows MetaFiles) is easy following these instructions, but the 128K limit restricts what you can do. Also, Ventur converts (at least 1.1 does) WMF files to GEM files and uses these to display the artwork on the screen. Version 2.o may load the files directly, but I kind of doubt it. So, I would say that the Windows applications are a bust for any serious Ventura work. But, Brad Kozak at Micrografx told me at COMDEX Atlanta that they were coming out with thei own multi-format file converter for Designer to solve this problem. I'll lay odds that they announce it at COMDEX, so you might want to give them a call. There are two GEM applications -- GEM DRAW and GEM ArtLine -- to choose from. These would be the most ideal, but GEM Draw is primitive in comparison to Mac Draw. Not contest here at all. Artline is an extremely powerful program which takes quite a bit of practice to use effectively. I did some beta test work with it and found the program can do just abou anything the Designer can plus a little more like the ability to break Bezier curves and merge them with others. Artline has not Panatone Color enhancements if you need that sort of thing but it has an alternate system. Also, a coming release of Artline will support true tri-color separations. Call VPUG, ask for Bob Moody and tell him I said he should send you a copy of the German version of Ventura Publishers. 90% of the art is done with Artline. A sleeper is Corel Headline, but it does not show images on the screen. The Corel people are about to announce a brand new product whith a front-end for headline. This product is supposed to be dynamite, but I'm told it will only do encapsulated PostScript files. AUTOSKETCH by AutoDesk (AutoCAD people) has got a lot of potential if they can get additional monitor and printer support for it. In its present state it is not suitable for the wide range of desktop publishin applications. At least a dozen or more packages will be released at COMDEX. I'll report on these when I get back. Other users may know about other products tou might want to look into. ...Gene Date: 12-17-88 (17:25) Number: 248 To: JANE HURFORD Refer#: 232 From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: BOOK PAGE LAYOUT WORK Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE A little add on to Gene R.'s reply. Micrografx told me they were thinking of pricing their little conversion program to give Designer a little export ability to the real (Non windows) world at about $300. Iÿûtold them they were out of their minds. I would forget Designer for the reasons Gene quoted and I paid good $$ for my copy. One thing on Corel Draw's EPS files is that they are supposed to be "viewable" EPS according to Corel, which I hope means Ventura will display a bitmap picture instead of the damned X we get now with most EPS files. I am dying to see Corel Draw but it is not supposed to be out till Jan. Will hopefully be looking at Gem Artline for the local Ventura Users group as early as next week. My experience is to stay away from programs (except Autocad) that cannot output .gem .img or .pcx files. Of course, with Version 2, we will have to add .tiff, I guess, to that list, but few programs except scanner software save in .tiff files at this point. So I am counting on Corel Draw or Gem Artline, but haven't actually got my grimy paws on either one, yet. Chris cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-17-88 (17:30) Number: 250 To: CARROLL BAKER Refer#: NONE From: DEIRDRE' STRAUGHAN Read: YES Subj: SUBSCRIPTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE It looks as if the boss did not get around to writing y'all a check before he left. I'll make sure it goes out Monday. In the meantime, coul you hold a copy of the Sept. issue for me? And how can I get multiple copies of the December issue? Mom wants one, Dad wants one, etc. etc. Thanks, Deirdre' Date: 12-17-88 (17:32) Number: 251 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: NONE From: DENIS LATKOWSKI Read: YES Subj: IT ARRIVED!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE It arrived!!! (finally) After twelve days of waiting, Mrs Coffee of Xero discovered a problem with my mailing address; someone had transposed two numbers and then put some extra info in as a second line. "I have to put a tracer on it." Fortunately, whoever delivered it figured it out and it finally arrived on my doorstep. The wait was worth it. Many improvements. Hope you get yours soon. Date: 12-17-88 (17:38) Number: 252 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: BOB HEADRICK Read: NO Subj: PC-WRITE 3.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene - I have PC-Write 3.0 available for upload if you are interested. realize this is a Ventura board, but I can upload it if you like. (It i 3 files, ~ 800K bytes total.) By the way, I like this board. Keep up the good work! Date: 12-17-88 (17:41) Number: 253 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: KERRY HAUPTLI Read: NO Subj: JUST JOINED! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene - I just joined your BBR and the board looks great! I uploaded two files and have several .EPS files which might be of general interest to other PostScript-O-Philes. As a VPUG member, I wasn't sure what to do for "special priviledges." Is this note sufficient? Also, would appreciate your confirmation that you received the copy of PubStar I we sent about two weeks ago. Keep up the good work! Kerry Hauptli, Carrollton (Dallas), TX Date: 12-17-88 (17:42) Number: 254 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RON LAFON Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: GEM ARTLINE/VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'm trying to import text (.GEM) files from the new GEM Artline into Ventura Professional, and all the characters are filled with a brick pattern (unusual, but usually inappropriate). Does anyone have any experience with what might resolve this problem? Gem says its Ventura's fault, and (as might be guessed) the folks at Xerox say its Gem's fault. As you can imagine, this is not very helpful. Help!!! Date: 12-17-88 (17:46) Number: 255 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: GENE MCCRAY Read: YES Subj: PHOTOGRAPHY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I enjoy reading your articals in Ventura Professional and look foward to reading more. I am a VPUG member and am only reciving 60 min. also seems as though I'm locked out of some downloads. Please make the changes to reflect my membership. If you have any questions please leave me a mgs or I can be reached at 303-287-4379. TNX P.S. let's see some half tones in the "Rag" I'm also a Photographer and like to see Photographs (with by-lines). chat at you later. -Gene- Date: 12-17-88 (17:49) Number: 256 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DOUGLAS LIDSTER Read: YES Subj: UPLOAD OF TAGNAMES.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Just a quick note . . . The first four or five times I logged onto this BBS, I got right in. That experience made me wonder why you were going to s new system. Then, when it came time to get this article off, it took two days of constant calling to get through. Now I get the point. Please pass the word to Carroll that the letter I sent her (with the signatures) may have gone to Bob Moody's home. I'm not certain which address belongs to whom. So I just used the one from the last letter I wrote. Hope you had fun at COMDEX. Can't wait to read about it. cc: Carroll Baker Date: 12-17-88 (17:50) Number: 257 To: CARROLL BAKER Refer#: NONE From: DOUGLAS LIDSTER Read: YES Subj: UPLOAD OF TAGNAMES. ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Just a quick note . . . The first four or five times I logged onto this BBS, I got right in. That experience made me wonder why you were going to s new system. Then, when it came time to get this article off, it took two days of constant calling to get through. Now I get the point. Please pass the word to Carroll that the letter I sent her (with the signatures) may have gone to Bob Moody's home. I'm not certain which address belongs to whom. So I just used the one from the last letter I wrote. Hope you had fun at COMDEX. Can't wait to read about it. cc: Carroll Baker Date: 12-17-88 (17:51) Number: 258 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: FREEMAN BRADFORD Read: NO Subj: SEARCH FOR PERFECT BBS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene: I appreciate your sharing your research. There is a board here in Palo Alto (SPACE) which is currently running PC Board with a Novell Net and a 386; with much the same configuration you describe. Again I am looking for a solution which is not so dependent on a third party software for the multitasking as I feel it adds to the overhead. The SPACE board, the last I was on it, had a sluggish feel; much like a mini has when there are too many terminals running too many complex programs. The results are a noticeable delay between the keystroke and the respons on the screen. I elected not to go to Comdex this year; I have a couple of writing projects whose deadlines are beginning to loom. You might check out Digiboard, Inc and Star Gate Technologies, Inc. as two possible additional sources for multiple line add-in boards. These boards have all of the multiple phone line servicing on an add-in board. The board itself is smart; has its own microprocessor and memory. There is a board in the Walnut Creek area running 16 lines on an XT using these boards (I forget which one) and the user response is much better than I found on the SPACE board. I will be in touch with both of these people to ask who has committed software development to support a BBS on their boards. Thanks again for your help. Brad. Date: 12-17-88 (17:56) Number: 259 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DON WILKES Read: NO Subj: HPGL & PATCH #2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Many thanks for the offers to help, folks. Patch #2 seems to have solved the immediate problem, and due to heavy workload lately I have not been able to do much spelunking for quirks, etc. If I come across any, I'll let you know, though. --- Gene (Sysop): I downloaded the QA-1.arc this morning, and brought it up in VP. There's a wrong paragraph assignment on pages 5, 8, 12, 16, 24 & 27. The last para in each case should be . The current assignment makes the first line of each illegible. I could upload the corrected version, I suppose, but it's so trivial a change it would probably be better if someone "on-site" did it. Besides, this is long distance! --- Also, where may I find the file QAREADME.DOC? It's not in the .ARC file, and when I ask for it in the FILES area, I'm told it doesn't exist. If the messages area is not the place where I should be asking this sorta stuff, please advise. I'm still feeling my way around in BBS-land. --- Thanks again, Don (in Victoria) cc: John Grant Date: 12-17-88 (17:59) Number: 260 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DON WILKES Read: (N/A) Subj: BALMPC.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I downloaded this ARC file, and dropped it into a VP frame. It produced no output whatsoever on my PostScript printer. Anyone know where the (possible) bug is? --- Don Wilkes (Victoria, B.C) Date: 12-17-88 (18:04) Number: 261 To: GENE MCCRAY Refer#: 257 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: PHOTOGRAPHY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene...Leave me a message with the download problems. We may have a bug on the bbs software. Also, you have 120 minutes of access time in 60 minute increments. This will change to 120 minutes per day of continuous use as soon as the new software goes on line (Dec. 15th). The Forum will then have 6 lines open and any problems you may have had getting on the system should be cleared up by then. I'll pass your message about the photographs on to Carroll. Note that I was also a photographer for 12 years or so. We will certainly credit all photographers for their submissions. The reason we have not placed photographs in the magazine before has been more of a resolution problem than anything else. We've been trying to do everything without using screens. This has all changed though with the release of Intel's new graphic board. We will be placing one on out system soon and should be able to resolve 256 shades of gray. Also, the new system will be carrying the PHOTO echo, a message system which travels around the country. It's moderated by the Rogers and Blake BBS in Maryland. They help moderate both DTP and Photographic conferences. This will give you a chance to exchange ideas with other photographers. A similar echo called FILM about cinematography will also be placed on-line. I've also been trying to scrounge photo-related files (information, utilities, etc). I sholud have a wider assortment on-line soon. ...Gene R. Date: 12-17-88 (18:06) Number: 262 To: DOUGLAS LIDSTER Refer#: 258 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: UPLOAD OF TAGNAMES.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE We've had more calls about the logon problem than anything else lately. Choose the S option from the Main menu to get an idea of the slack periods when few users call in. The new system will have 6 to 9 lines an at least 5 will be reserves to VPUG members. This should cure the problems for a few months or so. We're also adding a half dozen extra lines just in case. Bob is still checking his mail, so I can't tell you as of yet if your article was received. ...Gene R Date: 12-17-88 (06:53) Number: 264 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: MARYLOU BAFFONI Read: NO Subj: KELLY'S ADDRESS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the message; apology accepted. Now, let's get on with more important things. I think it would be best if you send the disks to *me*. Kelly is so busy he doesn't check his P.O. Box too often. Also, I think it would be safer to send packages to a residence instead of an apartment complex or a P.O. Box. My address is: 161 Hillcrest Drive, Fullerton, CA 92632 Kelly's address is: P.O. Box 4774, Cerritos, CA 90701-4774 Kelly's apartment address is: 5600 Orangethorpe, #1802, La Palma, CA 90623. Kelly has been asking me about his issues of Ventura Professional!. Date: 12-17-88 (18:09) Number: 265 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TOM ATWOOD Read: (N/A) Subj: UPLOAD OF COMPLEX.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Recently I called this system asking for help with "frame-too-complex" problems in VP. I received helpful replies from several people, and a workaround for my situation was found. The solution works for those of us who do not yet have the Professional Extension for version 2.0 and a detailed description is found in the textfile "COMPLEX.ARC," which can be found in the files section. I was very happy to receive a thoughtful reply to my message today from John Meyer himself, and I than him for taking the time to respond. Thanks again to Ventura Professiona and VPUG for providing such a fine BBS service. Tom Atwood cc: Gene Rodrigues Rick Altman Date: 12-17-88 (17:36) Number: 266 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: (N/A) Subj: OCTOBER 1988 WORKSHOP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Message 400 DATE/TIME: 11/14/88 18:4 From : RODNEY HARRILL To : ALL Subject: October, 1988 Workshop Folder : A, "PUBLIC Messages" Unfortunately, the most important piece of information regarding my article was somehow lost in the transmission or editing of my files. Anyway: "Note: It is important to have the correct version of the postscript preamble and printer driver to use this feature (rotating text),. The files PS2.PRE, and PD_POST5.SYS are automatically installed when Ventura is installed for a ostscript printer. Ventura Patch #2 provides these two files, the dates on the file PD_POST5.SYS is 1-22-88, the PS2.PRE is 1208-87. these files replaced the earlier version of the printer driver, and the postscript preamble. You will not be able to accomplish the rotation of images and text on the same page with Patch # preamble and printer driver. If you have your patch #1 disks available, or any Adobe font packkage, disk #4, or #5 in the Driver subdirectory, you may safely copy the older version of PS2.PRE and PD_POST5.SYS over the version supplied with Patch #2. This will in no way affect the operation or performance of functions in Patch #2. the date on your PD-POST5.SYS and PS2.PRE files should be 7-22-87. In you are using Core Newfont, you should use the 080687.pre file and rename it to PS2.PRE, then copy it to the Ventura Directory (after renaming the Patch #2 PS2.PRE file to PS2.OLD of course). If you have any questions, please d not hesitate to call me at (415)546-0600 x 225, or leave mail Thanks Date: 12-17-88 (18:20) Number: 267 To: JANE HURFORD Refer#: 232 From: ROB PANNONI Read: NO Subj: BOOK PAGE LAYOUT WORK Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Jane, I am a technical writer and computer consultant specializing in PC-based desktop publishing. I run a small business that, among other things, does desktop publishing contract work. I am interested in hearing more about the opportunity you described--long projects and complex layouts are the kind of projects we like to take on. Leave me a message with more details or contact me at (801) 373-3459. Thanks, --Rob Pannoni Date: 12-17-88 (18:23) Number: 268 To: RON LAFON Refer#: 256 From: DENIS LATKOWSKI Read: YES Subj: GEM ARTLINE/VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I've had problems with Artline and the LaserMaster Capcard whcih can't print anything Artline creates; have notified LaserMaster and hope they have a new driver. I tried printing the "Twist" pic in Ventura using the HP II driver and it rinted beautifully except that there was practically no distinction between the three "twists"; art pics print fine. I'll try doing a text only and see if I encounter the same problem you do. Date: 12-17-88 (18:25) Number: 269 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: PEDRO AMARAL Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, Would you verify that I am a member of the VPUG. -pedro amaral fresno, ca 93711 Date: 12-17-88 (18:26) Number: 270 To: DENIS LATKOWSKI Refer#: 270 From: RON LAFON Read: NO Subj: GEM ARTLINE/VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks Denis, I've found that the problem occurs not only wiht fonts generated from the Bitstream kit included with GEM Artline, but with the included fonts as well. Strangely enough, the samples (such as skeleton and others) included with Artline have text that prints as expected. Please let me know of your continued tests. Date: 12-17-88 (18:27) Number: 271 To: BOB MOODY Refer#: NONE From: DICK WORTH Read: YES Subj: VP 2.0 CLASSES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I understand that Bob Moody is teaching a class on VP on DEC 3, would like information on how to contact Bob, and where it will be. Thanks. cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-17-88 (18:42) Number: 276 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: (N/A) Subj: HP DESKJET Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE To anyone interested in printing to a DeskJet printer from Ventura Publisher, read on . . . .. While at Comdex, I saw a program from Atech software which lets Ventura Publisher drive virtually any printer, including the DeskJet. Unlike another solution which I have seen which requires translating a PostScript file and takes 15-20 minutes, this drives the DeskJet with a 300 dpi bit map and takes about 4 minutes per page. If anyone is interested in this product (which sells for $195), they should contact Atech Software, 629 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road, San Marcos, CA 92069, (619) 438-6883. I'm not endorsing the product, since I don't own a DeskJet and haven't tried it, but I know a lot of people are interested in this printer so I thought I'd pass this along. .. Incedentally, the reason Ventura Software doesn't include a driver with Ventura Publisher is that the DeskJet only comes with 128K of memory which is not enough to download any fonts using the PCL (i.e., the LaserJet) driver, which otherwise would work. Therefore, a whole new driver would be required, similar to the the one that Atech has written. We felt the performance of this type of driver was not in keeping with the performance of Ventura Publisher, since the DeskJet can print faster than 4 minutes per page. However, given the limited memory in a standard DeskJet, the type of driver which Atech has written is the only approach which makes sense, and they appear to have done a good job implementing it, based on watching their driver print the SCOOP chapter at Comdex. Date: 12-17-88 (18:42) Number: 277 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: (N/A) Subj: VP 2.0 NOT ENOUGH MEMORY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have received a number of complaints about not being able to run Ventura Publisher version 2.0 because of insufficient memory. In trackin down these problems, I have found that one of two situations seems to cause the problem: .. 1. Not enough attention paid to the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files (i.e., removing all unecessary TSR and background programs). 2. Installing version 2.0 with a VGA monitor. .. The performance enhancement information, which I uploaded several weeks ago contains information on how to handle the first situation. Therefore let me address the second situation. .. Most people who want to install for VGA operation understandably want to take advantage of the new gray scale and 16 color capability contained i the new VGA screen drivers shown on the second screen of options provide by VPPREP. However, these drivers are appreciably larger than their two color counterparts, and in certain systems which do not contain EMS, Ventura Publisher may not be able to load. The amount of memory required depends on not only the CONFIG.SYS drivers and AUTOEXEC.BAT configuration, but also on the version of DOS, whether network software is loaded, and other configuration parameters. .. If you are having problems loading Ventura Publisher version 2.0, especially if you previously ran version 1.1 without any memory problems I suggest that you do one of the following: .. 1. Purchase EMS memory. I know this costs money, but if you use Ventur Publisher a lot, the performance improvements resulting from increased memory (even with the base 2.0 product) are worth it. Plus, if you ever decide to upgrade to the Professional Extension, the EMS memory really helps you get the most out of its unique features> >> 2. If your budget won't allow you to buy EMS just yet, then the simple solution is to simply install either for EGA or for VGA two color. Yes, I know, you won't be able to get the gray scale and sexy on-screen color mixing, but you will be able to run version 2.0 without any additional investment. Date: 12-17-88 (18:44) Number: 278 To: RON LAFON Refer#: 272 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: GEM ARTLINE/VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Denis...Are you using the GEM 3.0/Ventura driver? I just got it in about a week ago, but have not installed it yet. I saw Larry Lukis from LaserMaster printing Artline files (some very complex) at the COMDEX show. You might also try leaving a message for Larry on the LaserMaster BBS. The telephone number is on Bulletin 2. Date: 12-17-88 (18:45) Number: 279 To: PEDRO AMARAL Refer#: 271 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Pedro...My list shows you as a member and I've already added your name t the user file for the new board going on line next month. If you're not receiving magazine issues or don't think your access rights are correct, let me know. Date: 12-17-88 (18:46) Number: 280 To: DICK WORTH Refer#: 273 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: VP 2.0 CLASSES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE You can contact Bob at 408-227-5030 or 408-227-5068. If you cannot get i touch with him personally, leave a message with Sonya Jackson. She will fill you in on the class and the location. The last class was held at th Hewlett-Packard auditorium where VPUG Central holds its meetings (corner of Wolfe Roard and Prunridge). Let me know if you need more help... Date: 12-17-88 (18:51) Number: 281 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: LEO MEISELS Read: NO Subj: HPL2VEN.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE As you indicate in your recent message, I've tried several times to download HPL2VEN.ARC but it seems that the file is corrupted. When I try to "unarc" the messages are: HPL2VEN fails CRC check, HPL2VEN.ARC has a bad header, etc. The protocol I use is XMODEM on PRACTICAL PRERIPHERALS 2400 Internal using Smartcomm II and also tried the first time with PROCOMM. Thanks. -- Leo Date: 12-17-88 (19:01) Number: 285 To: DENIS LATKOWSKI Refer#: 253 From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: IT ARRIVED!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for reply as I know you were on the run. Look for ward to hearing from you. CHris Date: 12-17-88 (19:02) Number: 286 To: DENIS LATKOWSKI Refer#: 253 From: CHRIS JOHNSON Read: NO Subj: IT ARRIVED!! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Well, you are a lot luckier than me. My upgrade mailed at a Post Office on Oct. 22. WHen I talked to Xerox last week, they finally admitted having my upgrade request but had NOT sent the software. They said it would just be A FEW MORE WEEKS. A friend here in Houston got his Version 2 upgrade in less than two weeks. Xerox could not explain how he got so much better service than I am getting either. Obviously, I am more than fed up with Xerox. Chris Date: 12-17-88 (18:50) Number: 288 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MARYLOU BAFFONI Read: (N/A) Subj: EMS BOARD CONFIGURATION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Need advice on installing EMS (extended memory) card. We are having a problem in trying to configure my system for a Tecmar Captain 286 with 4MB on a TeleVideo TeleCAT EGA. It has a C (boot drive) 20MB, 1 Vol. A second drive contains 42MB partitioned with SpeedStor. So: D is a virtual drive with a device driver. E is a full 42MB Vol. RAM disk device driver on TeleVideo DOS has VDISK and it only gives you 64K, no matter what you type into CONFIG.SYS. When booting up, system hangs. When all device drivers are in CONFIG.SYS, the LIM device driver and the HARDRIVE.SYS (SpeedStor) and VDISK.SYS which is the RAM disk. However, it doesn't always hang; sometimes it pushes the E drive to F and gives you 64K of RAM disk at E:. Would appreciate any suggestions. Only have DOS 3.1 and that could be the problem in getting DOS VDISK to work. Date: 12-17-88 (19:13) Number: 291 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: THOMAS MUI Read: (N/A) Subj: HP II PRINTER PROBELMS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Aloha out there! I'm using an AT with a JRAMAT from Tall Trees. In modifying Ventura with the 2.0 patches, I noticed that I can get my X's with JOUTPUT but Ventura seems to freeze up while loading the driver in the print stage. Any answers out there? (Fortunately, I have access to another AT without the Tall Tree equipment, but I prefer the speed using the JRAMAT3's. Thanks all. cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-17-88 (19:16) Number: 293 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RON LAFON Read: (N/A) Subj: GEM ARTLINE/VENTURA 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE After further experiments using .GEM Artline files with Ventura 2.0 Professional Ext. and a HP LaserJet II, I am still unable to print any of the fonts in the .GEM file. Any graphic element prints fine, but the fonts are filled with a brick-like pattern. With the same file on the screen in Ventura (It displays normally), I directed it to a PostScript printer and it worked perfectly. Is there a problem with the HPLJ driver in the new release of Ventura ??? Any comments or suggestions will be appreciated. Date: 12-17-88 (20:39) Number: 294 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: (N/A) Subj: EMS MEMORY & /A= SWITCH Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE In general, if you have EMS memory, don't use the /A switch. In addtion, according to Don and John Grant, the /A switch may cause problems with all but the PostScript printers. If you don't have EMS memory and are running the Professional Extension, you will probably need to use the /A switch. My personal experience is that if you keep it to less than /A=16, you won't have problems with the printer drivers. /A=20 or greater will cause the TIFF converter and several other of the LOD converters to malfunction (you will get an erro message on the screen warning you of this fact). The performance and memory enhancements memo that I uploaded will give you more info . . . .. As for the Moniterm driver, I don't have access to it, but I can tell yo that the Wyse, Sigma, VGA, EGA, and MDS Genius drivers that we use at th office all work without a hitch. Date: 12-17-88 (20:42) Number: 295 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: NASTY MESSAGES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Things to check for if you get nasty messages after printing: .. 1. Have you altered the VP.BAT or VPPROF.BAT file? You should NOT use the /A switch with any printer except PostScript (i.e., don't use it wit the LaserJet). 2. Do you have at east 2 megabytes of free space on your hard disk? This is not required unless you DON'T have EMS and unless you have a large document. However, if you try to create large documents with the base VP (non-Professional) and don't have at least 2 megabytes available memory could be corrupted under extreme conditions (fairly unlikely, but possible). 3. While Ventura Publisher 2.0 can now be run from Digital Research's GEM Desktop, you must have DRI GEM version 3.1 or above. Since I'm not entirely sure about their numbering system, don't quote me on that version level. To make sure, don't run Ventura Publisher from the GEM Desktop until you have run it from the DOS prompt without having run GEM first. This way you can verify that Ventura Publisher works on its own. Date: 12-17-88 (20:45) Number: 297 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: MESSAGE BASE CORRUPTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ************************ EVERYONE! ************************** We've lost just over a months worth of messages from the system. On December 5th, the system crashed for some unknown reason and attempts to bring the system back on line failed. After digging deeper, we found a major bug in the version 1.13 version of the software installed in late November. The data and index files for the message system were badly corrupted. Rather than bring the system up with the faulty software, we have installed the earlier version 1.12 software used before October 25th and the last message files backup dated 10/25/88. The 1.13 version message files are incompatible with version 1.12. We've re-indexed and renumbered the old message file, so you will need to use the SEARCH options on the message menu to find entered prior to 10/25/88. We managed to output the entire 1.13 message file to disk and have placed the file in the LISTS file area. You can download and print this file if you need to see any messages entered between 10-25-88 through 12-06-88. The file is called OLDMSG.ARC. Due to the large number of messages and the threading of messages it would be impossible to re-enter the missing messages manually. Under the circumstances, we will not be installing the version 1. software after bug fixes arrive. The new PCBOARD system will be u and running sometime before Christmas. Our goal date of getting the system up and running by December 15th has been pushed about a week later. Frankly, we are sick about this entire mess. Everyone has worked hard to build the message system to its current level as of December 6th. Hopefully, we may be able to re-enter the missing messages into the PCBoard system before it goes up. Given time and a few volunteers, this may happen before the new system begin operation. ...Gene Date: 12-17-88 (20:46) Number: 298 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: FILE DATABASE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE *************************** EVERYONE *************************** Although not corrupted in the message system mishap, the files database will have to be updated to include all files uploaded since October 25th. This we will do during low peak hours over the next few days. Data and descriptions for about 150 files needs to be entered manually. During the interim period, leave a message for the Sysop if you need a file which is not listed in the database. Thanks...Gene Date: 12-17-88 (20:47) Number: 299 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: USER REGISTRATION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE In the previous messages, the messsage base corruption problem was discussed and a explanation of our plans to remedy the problem were explained. In returning to version 1.12, all new users who have registered will have to reregister again prior to logging into the system. We will attempt to manually add all of these users to the database over the next few days if their names are missing from the existing user database. ...Gene Date: 12-17-88 (20:48) Number: 300 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TODD LEONARD Read: (N/A) Subj: VP AND DESQVIEW Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi folks. I am hoping to use DesqView with VP, but I've had a little difficulty along the way -- I am using a monitor not directly supported by Quarterdeck, namely, the Amdek 1280 (same as WYSE 700). The program bombs when VP tries to switch into the monitor's hi-res mode. Does anyone have any suggestions about how to get it going? My primary reason for wanting to use DesqView is so I can send Postscrip files out over an AppleTalk network. Currently, this means I have to ge out of VP to run the program from the DOS command line. Does anyone hav any alternatives for this? Date: 12-17-88 (20:50) Number: 302 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN POWELL Read: (N/A) Subj: COLOR OUTPUT WITH VP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have a requirement to produce multi-colored charts and graphs as a normal part of a document (they come from GEM Draw and/or LOTUS, etc). What inkjet printers is supported. HP's PaintJet ? where can I see it i use with COLOR and VP? How about Xerox's 4020? Same questions... I realy do not desire to spend CA$H only to finid out I can't get COLOR. Any help out there? If the paintjet type printers can't do the job I am open to other methods such as a service/method I can obtain hte end result.. Thanks!.... JP Date: 12-17-88 (20:52) Number: 303 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DICK WORTH Read: (N/A) Subj: SCALING? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am using ver 2.0, and using gem files created by Case Schematic Capture Software. Anyway, when I try to ge the printout to print on the full page of my wide carriage Epson LQ2550, it will only print about 2/3 of the page horizontally, no matter what changes I seem to make in the scaling, etc. I have also tried to use the Landscape mode, and get a full 11 x 17 print (wide carriage) , but have the same problem plus I only get the center of the screen to print on the paper. If you can follow what I'm trying to say, please leave suggestions. Also found that the literature is incorrect, there is no disk #16 with ver 2.0... Dick Worth Emerald Lake/MPG BBS in Redwood City. Now supporting Ventura for the San Mateo Ventura Group. (415) 361-1847 9600 baud. Date: 12-17-88 (20:53) Number: 304 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DICK WORTH Read: NO Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I logged on today to find that my name has been removed, and I am again a new user. Is this a mistake, or have I forgotten something. Thanks, Dick Worth. Emerald Lake/MPG (415) 361-1847 Redwood City. Date: 12-17-88 (21:03) Number: 307 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: HANS ANDRIESE Read: NO Subj: DUTCH BBS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello Gene, This is Holland calling... What should be the best way to get some files over from you to us? Is there a limit that we can download, is there a price for adding your material to our BBS (telphone number 3180 601122, please try!) Hans Andriuese Date: 12-17-88 (21:04) Number: 308 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: UPLOAD OF PERFORM2.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE For anyone who has read the performance enhancement tips that I uploaded several weeks ago, this newest version contains a little more information about VP.BAT switches and removes the confusion about when t use a RAM disk (answer: don't bother unless you can't use memory for a disk cache or EMS memory). The organization is much better than the previous version. .. I will be uploading several more tutorials on how to maximize memory usage, including -- in the next upload -- actuall examples of CONFIG.SYS files and AUTOEXEC.BAT files showing how to use 386max, QEMM, CEMM, EMM.SYS, REMM.SYS, Lightening, Super PCKwik, and other popular EMS drivers and cache programs. Date: 12-17-88 (21:05) Number: 309 To: CHRIS JOHNSON Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: OVERFLOW FILES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The OVERFLOW files are created by Ventura Publisher during a session and then erased during the QUIT operation. If you reboot without quitting or if the system crashes for any reason, these files remain. Ventura Publisher will delete them for you, or you can delete them without any harm. If the system has crashed (whether from Ventura Publisher or from any program) you should run CHKDSK /F to remove any lost clusters. These result -- at least in Ventura Publisher -- from files which were open at the time of the crash, power failure, re-boot, etc. Lost clusters do not indicate that your disk is corrupt or that your FAT table is bad. It jus indicates that a file was started, but no end can be found. Just simply run CHKDSK with the /F option and answer YES to the question, "Do you want to recover lost clusters?" .. The fact that your friend has zero bytes EMS means that he is likely to have memory problems if he does not remove ALL extraneous drivers from the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files. He should also install only the EGA or VGA 2 COLOR drivers. Do not install any of the 16 color drivers (the ones located at the bottom of the first page of VPPREP installation options and on the entire second page on screen installation options). These take up too much memory for most systems to run without EMS (and this is what VPPREP says, but many people ignore it). .. You said that your friend was trying to find an EARLIER version of GEM i order to run Ventura Publisher. He needs to find a LATER version. You need to run GEM 3.1 or later. GEM 3.0 Desktop will not execute Ventura Publisher correctly. In addition, I can almost guarantee that your frien will not have enough memory if he executes from the GEM Desktop. I highl recommend running Ventura Publisher from the DOS command line unless you have an XMS driver (e.g., Microsoft HIMEM.SYS), 386max, or similar drive .. Hope this helps. Date: 12-17-88 (21:10) Number: 310 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO Subj: SCREEN DRIVERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, Thanks for the info on screen drivers. .. Please check the upload area. I've modified the performance enhancement document and made it simpler to understand, plus I have added more information as Don, Lee, and John tell me new things or as I discover them myself. Please delete the older of the performance enhancement letter and replace it with this one. .. I'll be uploading additional technical notes during the next 2-3 weeks. ---------------------------------------- Date: 12-17-88 (21:19) Number: 312 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ROB PANNONI Read: YES Subj: LASERMASTER LX-6 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene I remember reading a message (before the big crash) that said you have been beta testing the Lasermaster LX-6 controller. I have a customer who has expressed an interest in this product but I don't like to deal with products I haven't tried--especially initial releases. The other Lasermaster products I have used have been quite good. What do you think of the LX-6? Is this product ready for prime time? --Rob Pannoni Date: 12-17-88 (21:21) Number: 313 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 308 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: UPLOAD OF PERFORM2.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the file John and I will get it online on the new system whic we will open partially this weekend. We are trying to work around a majo bug that affected the message base last week. We don't trust the softwar because of the manner in which this bug manifested itself. We will place one node of the new system online on Sunday or Monday and open at least three more lines the following weekend. BTW, Bob ordered some new software for the new system which will allow users to download the latest messages as a file. A reader will be available for downloading. With the reader, you can read and answer the messages at home without tying up your telephone line. The next time you call, the reader will automatically upload your replies. I'll send you and John Grant copies of the reader by mail when the software shows up. This will also allow you to archive messages as files which might come in handy fo Q&A type information for Xerox Customer Support. ...Gene Date: 12-17-88 (21:23) Number: 315 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: NEW VP 2.0 PERFORMANCE GD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John Meyer has uploaded the current release of Ventura Software's Performance Guide for version 2.0. The new guide contain quite a bit of information not present in the original guide. Programmers Lee Jay Lorenzon, John Grant and Don Heiskell have made suggestions to improve John's original guide and have added some information not documented in the Ventura Publisher manuals. Please pass on this file to other boards you might frequent. Thanks, Gene Date: 12-17-88 (21:23) Number: 316 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: TESTING... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE If anyone is interested in helping. I need a couple of people in the local San Jose area to call into the new multinode system when it is placed on line. To help, you have to have a data and voice line available. All the lines need testing and I need someone to upload and download files using different protocols, modems, and communications programs. If you're interested in helping leave me a private message. I need at least six volunteers to test the first six nodes and the message chatting system between nodes. Date: 12-17-88 (21:25) Number: 317 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: FREEMAN BRADFORD Read: NO Subj: TOSHIBA 341 PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene: I finally got my 2.0 upgrade and, as you predicted, the Toshiba driver in the upgrade works just fine with the Toshiba 321. (excuse the typo in the subject line). The question has become moot for me as I have since aquired another Laser Printer, but wanted to close the loop for your information. Brad. Date: 12-17-88 (21:30) Number: 318 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: STEVE CASE Read: NO Subj: DESKTOP ACCESSORIES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John, I had named the extension on my .acc files to .vcc for 1.1, but that doesn't work for 2.0. What do you suggest? Steve Date: 12-17-88 (21:32) Number: 319 To: RON LAFON Refer#: 270 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: GEM ARTLINE/VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Ron, Thanks for sending the Artline GEM file and the information on the Word Perfect 5.0 problem. I've found the Artline problem in the HP device driver and will be sending you a copy of the new driver. As it turns out, the problem will occur with any non-PostScript printer. Consider the new driver an interi "beta" version to work around the Artline GEM problem. It should be as stable as the driver you are currently using, since it has not been significantly modified since the release. Thanks for your help on this.. The Word Perfect 5.0 problem has been reported by a number of folks and appears to be pretty serious. The problem is under investigation and I can't give you any estimate on when it will be fixed. Be aware, though, that the bizarreness will happen anytime you save to WP 5.0 format and there are any extended character (i.e., above 127) included. It turns ou that we are outputting an extraneous hex E1 before and after the extende character -- which blows WP's mind (as well as VP's) when the file is read back in. If this happens again, you might try using DEBUG (or something like that) to patch the E1 (hex) values to 20 (hex) -- an ASCI space character. Sorry I can't give you a solution yet for this. Regards, jg Date: 12-17-88 (21:35) Number: 320 To: DICK GASKILL Refer#: NONE From: DOUGLAS DETLING Read: YES Subj: VP UTILITIES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick--Please upload the files you mentioned in your article in Nov. 88 Ventura Professional. I sent you a message earlier, but I think it got lost in the conversion of the BBS. I'd like to try KEYREP.COM and REFRESH.COM especially. Thanks. cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-26-88 (04:16) Number: 324 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DONNA HARRINGTON Read: YES Subj: USER STATUS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene, My name is Donna Harrington and I have been a member of this users group since it began as far as I can tell. I enjoy the magazine a lot. I don't know if I'm registered on the BBS. Could you please check and let me know? Thanks, Donna Harrington Date: 12-26-88 (04:19) Number: 325 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: GARY BLANKENBILLER Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am a subscriber loging on here for the first time. to get full access do I have to something other than list my name? The business nØûme we are listed under is SG Systems and my name is Gary Blankenbiller. The address is 8317 Gateway Terrace in Oklahoma City, OK 73149. Thanks Gary. Date: 12-26-88 (04:23) Number: 327 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN RICHARDSON Read: (N/A) Subj: DTP START-UP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi! My wife and I have been using XVP since v1.0 in our dog supply business to do mailers and our catalog. We are thinking of expanding ou repetoire and doing DTP for other small businesses in our community. ( W live in the mountains of Western NC and most typesetting is still done one line at a time on old CompuGraphics machines.) We think a market exists. We have a Mac with Adobe Illustrator 88 in addition to XVP and are about to lease a PS laser printer. Thus, we are fairly well equipped with both software and hardware. To those professionals out there who have starte up a DTP business, how have you done it? What are the pitfalls? How have you charged for your work and how much have you charged? While I think a need exists about the small business community here, doe anyone have any suggestions on how to break the lock that the old-time printers have on them? We were thinking of a direct mail piece and a personalized letter to all the potential customers in town. Any help that those of you who have been there before can give would be greatly appreciated. JOHN Date: 12-26-88 (04:30) Number: 332 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DONNA HARRINGTON Read: YES Subj: V 2.0 PERFORMANCE INFO. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene, I just read your message number 821. Is the file you are referring to vp_prfm.arc dated 10/25/88, or is there a newer version? Your message indicates that John Meyer just uploaded a new version of the performance guide. Please let me know. Thanks! Donna Harrington Date: 12-26-88 (04:35) Number: 333 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: FRANK TOBE Read: (N/A) Subj: APPLE LASERWRITER HELP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have an original Apple Laserwriter which I have attached to an IBM AT and use Ventura. It prints slowly but works fine. But the printer can't do anything else. It only emulates Diablo 630's and we don't use them anymore. We have an HP Laserprinter (also one of the first ones out) for our normal office work. Does anyone have a suggestion/board/patch/comment on how to make more us of this printer. We've only printed 11,000 copies since we got the printer years ago. (We got it to work with DO-IT, a predecessor to Ventura). Call me at (213) 306-1989 -- I'm Frank Tobe. If I'm not it, call Janet. Or reply here on the BBS. Thanx. Date: 12-26-88 (04:44) Number: 339 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: CARLA MCGEE Read: YES Subj: BBS INSTRUCTIONS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene, I tried to get copies of the packet1 and packet2 arc files for new users and they were not available in area A as stated in the September issue o Ventura Professional. Aren't they available any more? Please let me know. Also, I am interested in downloading a copy of all files currentl on the BBS - is there such an animal on this BBS? Please let me know. Thanks... and have a nice day, Carla McGee Date: 12-26-88 (04:49) Number: 340 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 145 From: JEFF PERRY Read: NO Subj: HELP! VENTURA & THE EGA Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John, thanx for the ideas. As it turned out, My EGA Card was on its last breath. It failed completely shortly after I left the message concerning my problem. It has now been replaced by a shiny new Paradise 480 and I am experiencing no problems at all. Thanx again. JLP Date: 12-26-88 (04:56) Number: 346 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: CHARLES COWENS Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: KERNING ADJUSTMENTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE It's easy to edit a .VFM file to add your own pair kerning information to the character width information, if you have the .VFM file in the first place. But, if you are like me and use built-in laser printer typefaces and the already compiled standard width table that comes with Ventura, you have no .VFM file to use in modifying the pair kerning behavior for any typeface. Does anybody out there have the .VFM files for any of the standard thirty-five PostScript typefaces? Wouldn't it be nice if Ventura made all the .VFM files it uses to compile into its standard .WID files available on this BBS? Date: 12-26-88 (04:57) Number: 347 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: CHARLES COWENS Read: (N/A) Subj: VIKING 1 DRIVERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'm not sure if this belongs in this folder, but anyway... Does anyone know what's going on with the development of a Viking 1 driver from Moniterm for Ventura 2.0? Date: 12-26-88 (05:03) Number: 349 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ERIC MARTIN Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: HELP WITH GRAPHICS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I downloaded the file called VPGRAPH.ARC which allows you to read in all your graphic files and then print them out for inclusion in a notebook for leter referencing. Well the setup works really well except that the header that I included isn't printing. My main problem with this is that I have about 38 different 'curio' graphics files that I downloaded quite some time ago. They all read into the chapter just fine. I've had to scale a few of them to fit in the frames, but other than that the screen looks fine. The files are either PCX or PCC files. My problem comes when I tried to print out these graphics. I'm using an EPSON EX800 printer. Some of those graphic files won't print. I went back and tried to print individual pages and I still can't get a few of them to print out. The frames and captions print just fine, just no graphics. It seems that it's pretty random as to which ones do print and which one don't. Some are scaled, some are PCX, some aren't scaled, some are PCC...so I can't figure out why. Anyone have any thoughts on this one? Eric Date: 12-26-88 (05:04) Number: 350 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: STEPHEN SHAWN Read: (N/A) Subj: LC890 LASER PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ANY INFORMATION ON THE NEC LC890 LASER PRINTER WOULD BE GREATLY ACCEPTED. NEED INFO ON DRIVER & HOW TO REASSIGN THE HOPPERS. THANKS STEPHEN SHAWN cc: John Grant Date: 12-26-88 (05:05) Number: 351 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: NONE From: STEPHEN SHAWN Read: NO Subj: LC890 LASER PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ANY INFORMATION ON THE NEC LC890 LASER PRINTER WOULD BE GREATLY ACCEPTED. NEED INFO ON DRIVER & HOW TO REASSIGN THE HOPPERS. THANKS STEPHEN SHAWN cc: John Grant Date: 12-26-88 (05:13) Number: 354 To: ERIC MARTIN Refer#: 349 From: JOHN GRANT Read: NO Subj: HELP WITH GRAPHICS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Eric, Depending on the version of Ventura Publisher you are running, there are certain limitations to printing bit images on printers other than PostScript or JLaser. The first limit is the number of file handles allowed by DOS. This numbe is 20 per process (regardless of what FILES= statement you have in your CONFIG.SYS file). After Ventura Publisher is through with the file handles it requires, the printer device driver is left with only about eight. This means a hard limit of about eight bit images per page when using version 1.0 or 1.1, since each bit image file printed using those versions of the printer drivers required on file handle (on a per page basis). This limitation has been improved with version 2.0 drivers, wher it limit becomes a maximum of about eight bit images intersected by any scan line (horizontal traversal of the print head), rather than eight bi images per page. The second limit is less likely to be encountered -- a maximum of 64 bit images per page in version 2.0. Sorry, but I can't remember if there was an analogous limitation in version 1.0 or 1.1. If you are running version 1.x, you might try to ascertain just what the page limit is with your configuration (i.e., whether its eight per page or slightly more or less) by printing a page consisting of about ten bit images. If you are running version 2.0 and are encountering bit image files whic won't print even if alone on the page, please let me know (I've never encountered any which will display on the screen but not print). Hope this helps! regards, jg Date: 12-26-88 (05:14) Number: 355 To: CHARLES COWENS Refer#: 346 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: KERNING ADJUSTMENTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Charles, Ventura Publisher 2.0 includes a very handy utility called WIDTOVFM whic works as you might expect, given the name: it will analyze a .WID file and generate the .VFM files used to create it. I'm not sure which kind o .WID files it can read, but suspect only the 2.0 variety. This shouldn't be a problem, though, since older (1.0/1.1) .WID files can be read into VP 2.0 and saved back out in the newer format. regards, jg Date: 12-26-88 (05:24) Number: 362 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: UPLOAD OF PERFORM2.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ************************ ATTENTION ****************************** John Meyer of Ventura Software has uploaded PERFORM2.ARC, an updated version of the VP version 2.0 Performance Guide. PERFORM2.ARC replaces VP_PRFM.ARC which John uploaded earlier. The new guide is updated and includes new information made available from the programmers at Ventura Software. Thanks John. We REALLY appreciate all the hard work you spent putting th guide together. ...Gene cc: John Meyer Date: 12-26-88 (05:31) Number: 366 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: NEW BBS SOFTWARE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ IMPORTANT ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ New software for the Forum is going to be installed during the week beginning the 15th of December. The existing system will be up and down during the entire week as files are moved off the old system and placed on the new one. If you have trouble dialing in, try again after an hour or so. We'll try to the existing system up as much as possible and will even disconnect the mailer (Fido) system which normall runs between 12:30 AM to 3:20 AM. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (05:32) Number: 367 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DAVE ERGO Read: YES Subj: READING MESSAGES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, is there any way I can read messages from the latest to earliest? You suggested that I read a message before 817 to find out what happened regarding the problems getting Steve R. and me signed up as registered users, and it appears that I need to hit or miss on guessing where to start. I'd rather not have to go from 9 to 91 message 9 to 917 to get current with what I have or have not seen. Any suggestions? Also: is there any way I can scan messages, and just read the ones I'm interested in? I tried a couple of ways, but unless I'm missing something obvious, I couldnt' get this to work. Date: 12-26-88 (05:34) Number: 368 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ROB PANNONI Read: YES Subj: LASERMASTER LX-6 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, Thanks for the info on the LX-6 controller. Lasermaster was taking orders at Comdex (offering a special show price) without mentioning that the product was not shipping. That's why my customer thought he could get a hold of one. A Lasermaster sales rep told me that they would begin shipping the end of December, but if the beta test is just beginning I suspect that the real ship date is still a ways away. You know how marketing goes in the computer market--don't believe it exists until you have it in your hand (and have tested it to make sure it works). It sounds like the product is worth the wait, however. --Rob Pannoni Date: 12-26-88 (05:35) Number: 369 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ROB PANNONI Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VP & APPLE LASERWRITER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE If anyone out there has experience printing a VP 2.0 postscript file on an Apple Laserwriter, I could use some assistance. Combining the instructions in the VP manual with those in the Laserwrite manual we have come up with the following process, which worked once for a short file but now doesn't seem to work at all: 1. We change the dial on the printer to 9600 baud and reset the printer (turn it off and on again). 2. We use the mode command to set com1 to 9600 and redirect lpt1: to com1. 3. We copy the file DTR.TXT to lpt1. We have tried this with and without the /B binary switch on the copy command. 4. We copy the file PS2.PRE to lpt1. Again we have tried with and without the /B switch. 5. We copy our file, which Ventura gives an extension of .C00 to lpt1 with the /B switch. The files seem to copy correctly (we used a breakout box to make sure our cable was sending data) The light on the Laserwriter flashes to indicate it is receiving data but nothing ever comes out of the printer. We even waited several hours on the off chance that Postscript was REALLY slow. Any suggestions? Thanks, --Rob Pannoni Date: 12-26-88 (05:37) Number: 370 To: DAVE ERGO Refer#: 367 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: READING MESSAGES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sure...just enter the message number you want to start at and the messag will scroll forward. If I ever get this new system up and running you'll be able to scroll forwards and backwards through the messages. I wouldn't worry about logging on right now. You will be able to get on to the new system when it goes up using the same telephone number. You can leave me a message then and I will update the user files accordingly. I gave up on trying t note all these changes down. It's utter kaos here right now and they would surely get lost. The new system is up and running in test mode right now. When all the bugs are out of the system we will connect one node to this telephone number. I'm increasing access rights for everyone logging in right now. After we get the bugs out of the new system, the user files will be updated accordingly. Just don't worry about it. Date: 12-26-88 (05:38) Number: 372 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VUNA USERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE VUNA Users...if you're a member of the Ventura Users of North America, please leave a message for the sysop. Your access rights will be increased on the new system as members of the Ventura Publisher Users Group. Joint letters from VUNA and VPUG should reach you soon explaining the change. The VUNA Letter will no longer be produced and your subscription will be automatically converted. You should receive Ventura Professional Magazine sometime around the first of the year. If some of you are members of both VPUG and VUNA don't worry. VPUG is making some form of arrangement to compensate you for your dual membership. All will be explained in the package being prepared for shipment now. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (05:41) Number: 374 To: ROB PANNONI Refer#: 369 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: VP & APPLE LASERWRITER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Rob, If you are using an old Apple LaserWriter (i.e., not the LaserWriter Plus) you cannot use DOS COPY to output files to the printer -- unless the files are fairly short. The problem with the old LaserWriter is that it only understood XON/XOFF protocol and using DTR.TXT would have no result. DOS, however, does not provide XON/XOFF protocol to the printer whether you communicate directly to COM1: or to LPT1: via the mode command -- it uses DTR flagging. One possible solution if you're using an old LaserWriter is to communicate directly from Ventura Publisher to the printer, instead of writing to a file. This is possible because VP uses both XON/XOFF and DT flagging. If you must write to a file, you can try reading the file back into VP as an EPSF file and then outputting directly from VP. If you are using a LaserWriter Plus, perform the following steps (which are similar to the ones you outlined): 1. Set the dial on the printer to 9600 baud. You should not have to reset the printer, but doing so won't hurt. 2. Use the mode command to set COM1: to 9600 baud. I would use MODE COM1:96,n,8,1,p. No need to redirect LPT1: to COM1:. 3. Copy DTR.TXT to COM1:. No need to use the /B switch on this copy or on any other copy of PostScript code (it is all clear ASCII with nothing in it that would be converted by DOS). Also note that once you've been successful with this, don't ever copy DTR.TXT to the printer again. Doin so will be redundant in that DTR.TXT contains commands which set the flagging parameter in the LaserWriter Plus' non-volatile RAM -- i.e., th information will be remember even if you turn the printer off, as long a it doesn't remain turned off for very long (like months) periods of time 4. Copy your .C00 file to COM1:. Note: don't copy PS2.PRE first -- it should already be included in your .C00 file if it exists in the \VENTUR directory. Again, no need to use /B. If all of this fails, you might try the following (after setting up the baud rate) to determine whether there is a cabling problem of some sort. Enter the following exactly as indicated: COPY CON: COM1: showpage^D^Z where ^D means control-D and ^Z means control-Z. The LaserWriter should print a blank page for you. Good luck! regards, jg Date: 12-26-88 (05:44) Number: 376 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: CHARLES COWENS Read: (N/A) Subj: CHARACTER WIDTHS -- VFM'S Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE In looking at the .VFM files for my built-in PostScript typefaces I noticed that width information is filled in for non-printing characters above ASCII 219. Does anybody know what these entered widths control? Date: 12-26-88 (05:45) Number: 377 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TIMOTHY SHANNON Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: SIGMA VGA HI RES DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Has any one tried to install Ventura Prof. Ver 2.0 with a Sigma VGA/H graphic card? Mine comes up in negative (black background and white letters. Any help in solving this would be appreciated. Timothy M. Shannon P.O. Box 1225 Kennesaw, GA 30144 Date: 12-26-88 (05:47) Number: 378 To: ROB PANNONI Refer#: 369 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: VP & APPLE LASERWRITER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bob, The only PostScript printer, until recently, that we use at Ventura Software is an Apple Laserwriter. The typical problem most people have with any printer is the hardware connection. Serial connections should b outlawed, in my opinion. When printing directly from Ventura Publisher t the printer, you do not need to bother with DTR.TXT, MODE commands or PS2.PRE files. If you own Ventura Publisher, try printing directly to your printer before you start trying to print to a file and then copy that file to the printer. If you cannot get Ventura Publisher to print directly to your printer, and you really have the switch on the side of the Laserwriter set to 9600 baud (it's tough to read sometimes), then I suspect your cable. It has to be wired exactly as shown in the manual. A straight serial cable will definitely not work. .. Your breakout box can be used to adjust the wiring if necessary. Appendi F shows the proper cabling (it is the same for the LaserJet and LaserWriter.) .. If you can get the printer to work correctly when printing directly from Ventura Publisher, then you should follow the directions given in the manual. Unless some other program reinitializes the printer, you should only have to download the DTR.TXT file once. Next, if the PostScript fil you created includes the Ventura Publisher prologue (which it will, unless you deleted PS2.PRE from the VENTURA directory prior to printing the file), you don't need to download the PS2.PRE file. .. Probably the best troubleshooting aid you have is to download the ERHANDLR.PS file to the printer. This file is located on the Utilities Disk (#5 if you have 5 1/4" disks). To download, simply execute the following: COPY A:\POSTSCPT\ERHANDLR.PS LPT1: /B. .. The /B is optional since PostScript code is all ASCII. This file causes the PostScript printer to print error messages if if receives informatio that it does not recognize. This may give you a clue as to what is going wrong. .. To summarize, I suspect your problem is the cable. If it is not, then I suspect that your file does not contain the PS2.PRE file or is not a PostScript file. The best way to troubleshoot is to get the printer to print directly from Ventura Publisher. This will verify the cable and th baud rate setting. If it prints from Ventura Publisher, then either the file is not correct, the DTR.TXT file is not being downloaded correctly, or the MODE command parameters need to be adjusted. .. good luck. Date: 12-26-88 (05:47) Number: 379 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: UPLOAD OF INT_SYSE.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, .. Lee put together some notes on the Internal System Error message. Feel free to put this on the board if you think users would find it useful. Otherwise, just keep it for your files. I should note that these error messages seem to be quite rare, whereas in previous version they occurre all too frequently. Two reasons for the improvement: 1) Lee reworked the memory management and for Professional Extension completely changed it. 2) Lee added code which checks available memory when Ventura Publisher i loading. If less than 100K is available (base product, no EMS), the Ventura Publisher will not load, even though this is sufficient memory t run the program (it can run with only 20-30K). The reason is that we found with large documents and small amounts of memory it was possible for certain temporary storage areas to overflow and corrupt memory. Lee did extensive calculations, and with 100K available you should not be able to overflow these storage areas. This eliminates memory corruption which was the main reason for the ISE messages. Date: 12-26-88 (05:49) Number: 380 To: TIMOTHY SHANNON Refer#: 377 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: SIGMA VGA HI RES DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Tim...I had a similar problem with a NEC MultiSync II monitor and a Vega Video Deluxe VGA card. As it turned out, I didn't notice the second screen of drivers for screens in VPPREP. After I installed the correct driver, I had no more problems. If John Grant sees this message, he may have some specific information about your particular case. John writes the drivers for Ventura Publishe ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (05:49) Number: 381 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 379 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: UPLOAD OF INT_SYSE.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks John...the file will really help isolate some of the odd ball problems users are having. Note that most of the ISE messages problems I have helped users with regarded their failure to read the second page of the screen menu in VPPREP. VGA users have been experiencing the most problems. Just too many combinations of monitors and graphics cards out there. I'm going to allow users to download the file and have made your private message public since I feel it might help a few users understand the process better. Maybe Lee or Don can do something to highlight the note more or cause a single letter to blink on the first screen page. Most of the users who are having the problem are old timers. They just take it for granted tha there is a single screen page. It happened to me during my first install -- I never noticed the prompt on the bottom of the screen. ...Thanks again and please Thank Lee ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (05:53) Number: 383 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MEL MINAMI Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: EMS DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I NEED TO KNOW IF THERE IS AN EMS DRIVER FOR A CLONE 386 MACHINE WITH 2 MEGABYTES OF MEMORY ON THE MOTHERBOARD. PLEASE REPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBL MEL cc: John Grant John Meyer Date: 12-26-88 (05:57) Number: 384 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: STEVE CASE Read: YES Subj: JLASER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi John Thanks for the reply. Naturally I have another question. If a user has PE, Jram and Jlaser, and adds 2Meg for a total of 4Meg Jram, can he load the dictionary, VPPROF, and still print? This user complicates things slightly by using a Wells American AT, which Tall Tre states should be brought down to 512K and let Jram backfill, thus slightly reducing the expanded memory available. Have a good weekend. Steve Date: 12-26-88 (06:01) Number: 385 To: HOWARD WHITE Refer#: NONE From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: UNDOCUMENTED ERR MESSAGE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Howard: I get that message too. It's a funny message because it does not seem to impair the operation of VP 2.0 at all. Essentially, the "Text won't fit" message is notifying you that you are trying to place a paragraph of text into a box or frame that is not large enough to hold all of it. For instance, if you created a Box Text graphic that was 1 inch tall, typed some text, and then formatted the paragraph to have 1.5 inches of Space Above, you would get the error. The box of text could not accommodate the paragraph and its accompanying space. It will do the best it can (hence, no crash) but it wants you to know that you're doing something that is at best, unkosher, and at worst, a paragon of bad document design. Hope this helps. Rick Altman Date: 12-26-88 (06:05) Number: 386 To: MEL MINAMI Refer#: 383 From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO Subj: EMS DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The two EMS drivers that we have used at Ventura Software are QEMM from Quarterdeck Systems (they're in the LA area) and 386max from Qualitas Software (they're in Bethesda, MD). QEMM has the advantage of only takin 1.5K of conventional memory to map calls into the EMS area. This is remarkably small (by contrast, the CEMM driver that comes with Compaq an the EMS driver sold with Intel Above boards take between 20K and 40K of conventional memory). .. The 386max product is one of those products that people whisper to each other about ("hey . . . did you know about this neat little . . ."). The reason it is neat is that it provides the extended to EMS mapping, the XMS driver (the HIMEM.SYS equivalent which provides 64K additional conventional memory for programs -- like Ventura Publisher -- that know how to use it, AND lets you place CONFIG.SYS device drivers, TSRs, and /or portions of Ventura Publisher into various "Hi-Memory" areas between 640K and 1M. It's got lots of configuration switches that are fun to pla with. .. Both QEMM and 386max seem to work quite well on our Compaq 386 machines. I assume they will work on your machine as well, although you will have to test that yourself. The advantage of QEMM is that it is small and simple, and it puts you in contact with Quarterdeck who makes Desqview, the multi-tasking DOS extension. You may find this capability interesting. The advantage of 386max is that it gets more out of the available memory in a 386 machine than any other program I know of. Date: 12-26-88 (06:06) Number: 387 To: STEVE CASE Refer#: 384 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: JLASER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have no idea how to answer your Jlaser memory question. The only thing I can offer is that the Edco dictionary requires 1.2M bytes of EMS. Next to have EMS for your document you need a minimum of 256K after all other drivers (such as disk caches) and the dictionary are loaded. This means you need 1.2M if you don't want to use any EMS for Ventura Publisher itself (which means you'll still be disk swapping on long documents and running out of memory with 16 color VGA drivers -- not a recommended configuration), or 1.456M bytes if you want the minimum amount of EMS fo Ventura Publisher after the dictionary has been loaded. .. Since the JRAM driver is loaded before Ventura Publisher and the Jlaser RAM is allocated at print time (I think), AND since Ventura Publisher normally hogs all remaining EMS for itself when it loads, you will need to restrict the amount of EMS memory which Ventura Publisher takes or your JLaser won't work. This is done with the /E switch in the VPPROF.BA file as described in the Professional Extension manual. Date: 12-26-88 (06:09) Number: 389 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JIM REYNOLDS Read: YES Subj: MESSAGE UPLOAD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE What's wrong I've uploaded many messages but when I try to send one to your board it starts cycling through screen and the the lines don't even start in message file I've used two different comm. program with the same results. Please advise, -JBR Date: 12-26-88 (06:14) Number: 392 To: TONY FERRIS Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: QMAIL DOOR / QNET Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the info on InterLink and the Qmail door. Jim Fouch at Sleepy Hollow just filled me in over the telephone and set up access so I could play with the door tonight. Really appreciate the offer. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (06:15) Number: 393 To: MEL MINAMI Refer#: 383 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: EMS DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I've been using the QEMM 386 expanded memory manager from Desqview for the last three months. It works exceptionally well with Ventura and all the other applications I've used and beta tested. The only quirk I've found with it so far is some kind of imcompatability between it and the Wyse 700 monitor. A checkerboard pattern appears on the screen when Ventura, Publisher's Paintbrush and a few other graphics programs are loaded on a system with the Wyse 700. As for compatability with other monitors, it seems to have not other problems. I've used VGA, Viking, Cornerstone, Verticom, and Multisync monitors with the program with no problems. The current release of QEMM only occupies 1.8K of lower memory and loads the balance of itself in extended memory. Note that this was the only 386 memory manager I found to work out of about 30 I tested four months ago. It runs well on machines as fast as 3 Mhz. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (06:17) Number: 395 To: JIM REYNOLDS Refer#: 389 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: MESSAGE UPLOAD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE If your trying to upload an ASCII file to the message base containing ANSI characters or if the number of chararacters per line exceeds 72, th system will balk. You'll have a similar problem on the new system also. Most bulletin boards have added features in recent months which prohibit the uploading of ANSI advertisements and messages in excess of 72 lines. If your file has the required amount of characters per line and has no other ANSI information, something is wrong somewhere. Note that I routinely upload messages to the board and text files using the ASCII technique with little or no problems. I'm using Telix. What modem and ASCII parameters are you using? I'll do some testing with your configuration, if you let me know what it is. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (06:20) Number: 398 To: CARLA MCGEE Refer#: 339 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: BBS INSTRUCTIONS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Carla...when the new system goes up, we will be adding a private conference area for VPUG. You'll also have special access and a private telephone number to call in on. The number and conference are reserved for inter-chapter communications. We'll be placing a lot of information, plus all of our training and workshop files in the conference for downloading. I'll leave amessage when the new system goes up. Keep the number and password to yourself, Carol and whatever other officers you have. I've made special arrangements for BBS sysops on another line, so you can pass this information on to David Treweek. The conference area is going to be your back door for communicating information directly to us, Xerox and Ventura Software. Keep this information secret. We're trying to develop a world-wide communication system, so the heads of different chapters can communicate with one another. When the new system goes on-line you'll have the ability to teleconference with up to 5 users at the same time. Thanks...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (06:23) Number: 399 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 378 From: ROB PANNONI Read: NO Subj: VP & APPLE LASERWRITER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks so much for taking the time to respond to the problem we were having with the Apple Laserwriter. Apparently, our problem was that the printer didn't like the office it was in. We moved the printer to a different office using the exact same cable and steps and it worked fine! I don't suppose we'll ever know what the real problem was, but we have a few guesses: 1. Somehow the printer got set to the wrong mode (it is also used on an Appletalk network) to receive or process our file. We noticed that when we rebooted the computer the light on the Laserwriter blinked for several minutes--some kind of initialization I assume. Perhaps we sent a file while it was still initializing? 2. The breakout box we were using was acting strange. There may have been a short in it that affected our cable. 3. Perhaps there was a loose connector on our cable that managed to make a better connection when we moved the printer. The third option is probably the most likely. Anyway, thanks again for the prompt response. --Rob Pannoni cc: John Meyer Date: 12-26-88 (06:25) Number: 400 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JIM REYNOLDS Read: (N/A) Subj: NEC P6 PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Is anybody out there using a Nec P6 printer? I just installed Ver. 2.0 and set it up for the Epson LQ driver only to find out that after printing the first page the following sheet is printing 1/2 inch lower and it keeps doing this sequence on all the following sheets. So by the time you get to page 5 you're 2 inches lower on your top margin setting. This should be the case on any LQ 1500 also. I've called Xerox tech support on this and I'm waiting to hear back on this matter. If anyone's having the same problem I would like to hear from you. I never got to use Ver. 1.1 because they didn't support the Nec P series then I got the upgrade notice from Xerox in Oct. this year and was elated to hear they supported the Nec P series then after purchasing the upgrade I find their only emulating not supporting. I explained this to Xerox also that there was a vast difference between the two words. I'm not griping I'm just trying to get to use the program I purchased. -------------------------------- FUTHER NOTES: I downloaded the file VenturP5.arc knowing all along that it was probably for Ver. 1.1 as it was. Anyway after looking it over I copied the driver and width table over to the ventura dir and set the preference option up to use the NecP5 driver with the output.wid table that comes with Ver. 2.0 and Walla it worked great on a chapter file that I had gotten that wouldn't print properly with the LQ driver plus it didn't feed another sheet in when it finished printing like the LQ driver does which is very irritating to say the least. The file I used was done in Ver. 2.0 with the Swiss & Dutch fonts. Therefore I have found the problem. It's in the LQ driver supplied with 2.0 as I had expected. In closing it would be nice to see the above mentioned file updated for Ver. 2.0 -JBR cc: John Meyer Date: 12-26-88 (11:22) Number: 402 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DICK CAMPBELL Read: YES Subj: VPSCREEN.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE This morning I downloaded VPSCREEN.ARC and extracted the .DOC and .EXE files. VPSCREEN will not load any .EGA fonts which I have - from the BitStream generator - and I am wondering if it's me or the file is corrupt. Mine says VPSCREEN.EXE 17,026 3-02-88 6:12AM (that's real enthsiasm for ya!). Any similar complaints?? Thanks for your quick reply to my most recent query. Dick Campbell Date: 12-26-88 (11:26) Number: 403 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: NONE From: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Read: YES Subj: WY700 DRIVER FOR VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John, I just loaded VP 2.0 (plus professional exztension) on my computer (a 286 machine). I find that the new VGA driver for the WY 700 monitor has a new aspect ratio. It is about 10% less in vertical height than the previous EGA driver. This is a major problem for me. I have designed dozens of commercial manuals so that the text page, minus headers and footers, fits on the WY700 in normal view. Is there any way I can remedy this situation? Can I load the WY700 EGA driver with VP 2.0? On this monitor I don't see a grat difference in the screen fonts. If you cannot help with this, could you pass the message along to the appropriate person? Many thanks, Alan Blumenthal Date: 12-26-88 (11:34) Number: 405 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 297 From: DICK WORTH Read: YES Subj: MESSAGE BASE CORRUPTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, uploaded vmb.arc (Ventura Message Base) I arc'ed to arc files, you message base of late Nov., and early Dec. I may have done some editing o these files to clean up prompts, etc. Date: 12-26-88 (11:41) Number: 406 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: NONE From: DICK WORTH Read: YES Subj: EPSON LQ2550 DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John Grant and John Meyer. I am having problems in two areas. I am transporting GEM files to Ventura from Case Technology Schematic Capture, and I can't get Ventura 2.0 to print on the full page (11 X 17) on an Epson LQ2550. I get about 5 inches of white space on the right side of the paper. Second, the Epson is capable of 350 x 350 dpi, but Ventura only does 200 x 200 dpi. Any chance of getting a device driver for 25 pin printers, especially the LQ2550? Thanks for any help. Dick Worth, San Mateo Ventura Publisher Users Group. Emerald Lake/MPG BBS located in Redwoord City, (415) 361-1847 (DATA) Supporting Ventura in the Mid-San Fransisco Peninsula. Date: 12-26-88 (11:46) Number: 407 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 372 From: PHILIP BURTON Read: YES Subj: VUNA USERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I recently paid $29 for a VUNA membership, option 1. My invoice is date 11/28/88, and is number 2634. I haven't received anything from VUNA yet I assume that with this change, I will automatically qualify for "membership" status on this board. By the way, I recently called the office, and requested a copy of the VPUG membership form. I haven't received it yet. cc: Philip Burton Date: 12-26-88 (11:51) Number: 409 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 386 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: NO Subj: EMS DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Mel: I echo the comments of Gene R. and John M. -- the QEMM-386 driver is exceptionally powerful and reliable. If you are interested in an elaboration, I am halfway through a multi-part series of articles in Computer Currents magazine, where I am focusing on multi-windowing programs like Desqview, and its companion EMS driver, QEMM. If you are here in Northern California, Computer Currents is easy to obtain; otherwise, if you're interested, you could call (415) 547-6800. Happy memory managing... Rick Altman Date: 12-26-88 (11:55) Number: 410 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: MARK WORSNOP Read: YES Subj: LOGIN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello again.... several weeks ago i logged into this system and i though became a member. I also told you my wife (Cheri) gets the magazine and t please chg the login time to reflect that. I havent been around for a fe weeks (since the initial few times) and no find my login had to be re done. did i do something wrong? anyway thought youd like to know and ps up the login time limit. thanx! also a question i have on fonts... when i last sent mail to you you told me to read the end of the manual on installing fonts found on thie bbs. did and think i get it all but you also said there would be an article i a magazine soon. has that come out yet and i am blind and havent seen it or what? did i remember wrong. would like some more help (reading material) before i feel comfortable with the font stuff... also if i can get the fonts from this bbs why does one need to buy the expensive commercial packages? finally i orderd 2.0 ventura many weeks ago and still havent seen it.... is this cause for concern yet? i guess they are probably slow? Date: 12-26-88 (12:02) Number: 411 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ROGER FIRTH Read: YES Subj: USER DATABASE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, hi there. I've been calling the board for about a month now, but haven't called for the last week. Today, I find I'm not in the user database any more. Is this normal? Have I missed something? Yours, perplexed, Roger Date: 12-26-88 (12:03) Number: 412 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: ROGER FIRTH Read: NO Subj: USER DATABASE (MORE) Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, since sending you 997, I think I see you've had a crash and lost a load of system files; hence the re-registration. Fair enough - but couldn't you alter the startup banner to warn nervous users like me that a re-register is necessary and not to panic? Cheers, ROger Date: 12-26-88 (12:05) Number: 413 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 386 From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: NO Subj: EMS DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John, What about QEMS-386? Do you know how that one works? And what is the price of 386max? QEMS-386 is about $40.00. I been looking into buying an EMS driver but can not make up my mind yet. Date: 12-26-88 (12:06) Number: 414 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: ARABIC FONT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The July 1987 issue of 'Communication of ACM' had an article about Arabi and Hebrew word processing. I've seen some Hebrew fonts but not Arabic fonts. Does anyone know of some PS Arabic fonts? Date: 12-26-88 (12:07) Number: 415 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: YES Subj: DELETING MESSAGES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, How do I delete a message after it has been sent. I answered a message using R option, saved it, and a few messages later I found the answer I was looking for and decided to delete the message. The help menue says that I can use D option but none exist! Date: 12-26-88 (12:11) Number: 416 To: HOWARD WHITE Refer#: NONE From: DICK CAMPBELL Read: YES Subj: UNDOCUMENTED ERR MESSAGE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Howard/Rick - same experience with "This frame has ...(too big)" except that I get it consistantly when using a 1.1 file in 2.0. The message appears even with pure graphics frames!. If I redo the document starting with 2.0, using the same text features and tags in the same frame sizes, the message does not appear. My poor little mouse is exhausted and has a black and blue left eye from hitting the OK box so often - and, as you say, the doc seems to print just fine. Here is another buglet (I love that word!) If you try to close an expression using the VPPROF equation generator with a right brace '}' ($7D) is always comes out '|' ($7C). Where did that itty bitty bit go? Dick Campbell cc: Rick Altman Date: 12-26-88 (12:16) Number: 417 To: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Refer#: 403 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: WY700 DRIVER FOR VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Alan...copy your existing VP.BAT or VPPROF.BAT file and assign it anothe name like VPW.BAT or VPPROFW.BAT. Then do a partial install on Ventura a a Hercules device. This will place the required EGA fonts in your directory. Afterwards, copy the WYSE driver file in your VENTURA directory and change the file extension from VGA to EGA. Copy the VPPROF or VPW.BAT file over VP.BAT or VPPROF.BAT whichever the case may be. The open VP.BAT or VPPROF.BAT with an ASCII file editor and change the VGA extension on the line beginning with the word DRVRMRGR to EGA. Save the file off and load Ventura. Double check your printer info box to determine if it now says EGA in th Screen field. After reading EGA and if the EGA fonts are in the directory, the screen will return to the original dimensions you used fo V1.1. You can also start Ventura either way by executing VP or VPW. As an alternate solution, you can just reinstall Ventura as a Hercules device to transfer the fonts and manually change the file extension in the Printer Info box to EGA. Either way works. The initial method gives you the ability to use either type of fonts by starting Ventura with different batch files. Date: 12-26-88 (12:18) Number: 418 To: DICK WORTH Refer#: 405 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: MESSAGE BASE CORRUPTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick...Thanks, I'll take a look right away to see if some of the missing messages are in there. Note one thing that I discovered a few hours ago. The cause of the crash has something to do with ASCII file uploads into a message. I contacted the individual who was last on when the system went down and he indicates that he was attempting to answer a message to another user when the crash occurred. The missing messages spanned from the new message back through to the older message. The entire area was filled with garbage or the total absense of message data. The problem di not infuence the message headers or the files controlling the threading, although we had though they had. Jim Harrer knows about this. I told him what I though had caused the problem and he suspected that my theory could hold water since the problem, although reported before, has not been reproducable. Anyway, just to be on the save side in the future, I'm going to be backing up the message base multiple times per day using a background program I got from Alpha Micro down south. Thanks again...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (12:21) Number: 419 To: PHILIP BURTON Refer#: 407 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: VUNA USERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Philip...I'll check with VPUG to see why the membership form never went through, but this might not be necessary. VUNA is shutting down operations and has asked VPUG to take over its membership. Everyone is working on doing so, however everything is taking time. Bob Moody holds this as a high priority on VPUGs current schedule and two people are attempting to merge the VUNA membership listing into our database system In the meantime, you'll have access to the board as a VPUG member. Although you really won't notice much of a change until the new system goes on line. Presently, I'm waiting for the telephone company to finish connecting their lines up and down my street. They are running about two weeks late on this and are having all kinds of problems. According to my schedule, the new system should have went on line on the 15th. You can call VPUG directly if you like by dialing 408-227-5030 or 227-5068. Ask for Sonya or Christina. They will help you out. As soon as the new BBS lines go in, I will have a tech support line here and can help directly. Until then, leave a message on either of the two lines I indicated earlier and I'll give you a call if you need help. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (12:26) Number: 421 To: MARK WORSNOP Refer#: 410 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: LOGIN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Yes you are a member, however we had a message base system crash on the board which has effected just about everything else. We lost about 200 user names becuase the file format used on the software in use at the time was not compatible with the older software version we are now using A new system will be going on line very soon and your name is on the lis The font article we spoke about is being released in the Font Directory. This is a special book VPUG plans to release annually. The schedule date for release of the directory has slipped several times. The recent product releases at Comdex Fall changed quite a few things and VPUG is attempting to update much of the information and add about 80 font samples. As it now stands, the book is about 250 pages. We'll get it out as soon as possible. I may place some articles on-line here to help clarify things. One of these is a better explanation of the Appendix K data. It is insufficient for most work. The Ventura utilities are much more modular and easier to use than the appendix would seem to indicate. I'll try to get the articles on-line here, but for right now getting the board on-line has the highest priority. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (12:28) Number: 422 To: MARK WORSNOP Refer#: 410 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: LOGIN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Mark...Read back through the messages for correspondence about this entire mess of shipping VP 2.0 to users. Many users were a little more than ticked when Xerox shipped the software to dealers before users. Joh Meyers from Ventura software responded by leaving a special address on the board for complaining about the problem. Note that Ventura Software was not too tickled about the delay either. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (12:29) Number: 423 To: ROGER FIRTH Refer#: 411 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: USER DATABASE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sorry Roger...but we've had a message base problem which has had an effect on both our user and files database. We should be back to normal in about a week or so, but will be using different software. Also note that the subscriber lines (tele) will be changing soon. The new system will go on-line with three, four or five lines depending on how fast I can get everything tested and running. Date: 12-26-88 (12:31) Number: 424 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 414 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: ARABIC FONT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Morad...on the Hebrew fonts, try calling NeoScribe International at 203-467-9880. They have three fonts that I know about under the titles: Laser Hebrew, Macsans and Macslab. These were originally produced for the MAC and they may now have their PC versions ready. So far, I have not found any PostScript fonts for Arabic, Armenian and a host of other languages. I know they exist -- just can't find a vendor for them. If you learn anything, please let me know. I'll continue to pu some feelers out and I'll talk to some vendors in Texas which have offices in the Mid-East and Europe. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (12:31) Number: 425 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 414 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: ARABIC FONT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Here's one other lead for you Morad. In England, a product is sold calle VUWRITER. It is a multi-language word processing system which uses HP Softfonts and possibly PostScript fonts. They claim to have fonts for almost evey language including about 20 or so Chinese dialects. They hav a rep in the east coast and I'll try to find out who this is. Date: 12-26-88 (12:32) Number: 426 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 415 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: DELETING MESSAGES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Morad...sorry about that, but I've disconnected the Kill option on Wildcat due to our recent problem on Wildcat. When the new system goes u soon, only the conference moderators will have the ability to delete messages. The reason we are doing this is becuase our message threads ar being continually broken and a lot of really good information is getting deleted from the system by users who do not understand what we are tryin to accomplish here. Hopefully, we'll develop a system soon which gives users some ability to delete some messages without breaking the message threads. Until then, I've got to leave that option disconnected. However if you find the message and leave the #, I'll delete it for you. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (12:33) Number: 427 To: DICK CAMPBELL Refer#: 416 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: UNDOCUMENTED ERR MESSAGE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick...Everyone at VPUG has been experiencing that problem when loading 1.1 files into 2.0. We have a theory about this but are not sure if it holds any water. In all of out cases, the offending frame touched either the header or footer repeating frames. We're assuming that this is triggering the message or that the latest device drivers are different enough from those of 1.1 to cause the problem. Note that the message als occurs if you change from say an EGA system to a VGA syste, (.i.e. chang the monitor and graphics board.) Interesting problems and very aggravating... Date: 12-26-88 (13:43) Number: 430 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: BOB TRACY Read: YES Subj: VERSION 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have several questions regarding Version 2.0. 1. The defualt in the Print menu is "CURRENT". Can this be changed, permanently, to "ALL". 2. I'm using the Professional Extension to make tables using your new utility. I would like to use a text file to fill in the form. (I now use your so-called Vertical Tabs and tag the deepest paragraph to contain a ruling line under the width of the frame). This way, a text file will flow into the form the same as a long text file into the frame. Can I do something similar with the new form utility? 3. I use a portable computer coupled to an overhead projector for demonstrations at my VPUG meetings as well as for teaching purposes. This computer has no extended/expanded memory. Can I load Version 2? Can I load the Professional Extension without the hyphenation dictionary? If I can load either or both, which features will I be able to demonstrate? 4. I now replace the VP.INF (VPPROF.INF) file with one which was saved with my preferred defaults. I notice that two other .INF files are included in the \VENTURA directory, (EGAFHDR.INF and EGAFSTR.INF). What are these files used for? Should I think about replacing them also? 5. I sometimes modify the .CHP file using an ASCII text editor. I have noticed that the last character in each line is hidden. Is this a space, ASCII 255, or other character? It would be useful to know. 6. Ca (will) you offer definitive explanations of the table of values which appears under the Desk/Publisher Info/Ventura menu? Thank you, Bob Tracy, Tracy TypeService 1873 Dewayne Ave. Camarillo, CA 93010 (805) 482-7092 The Ventura County VPUG (meets at) California Lutheran University, 60 Olsen Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360, every 4th Tuesday at 7:00 pm in the Pearson Library. Date: 12-26-88 (13:49) Number: 431 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN FINLAYSON Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: SCREEN FONT REDRAW BLUES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE After installing Ventura 2.0 (and the Professional Extension), and before anything else, I created the screen fonts for our biweekly. I had made the same screen fonts for 1.1 (but for ega, not vga). To my chagrin, the screen now takes forever to redraw text screens, pausing to grind away at the hard disk for a second or two as it encounters each font on the page. I thought the screen fonts were put in memory. Compared to version 1.1, this is intolerably slow. We've got 1.4 Mbytes of EMS memory, and EDCO hyphenation is not installed. Anybody have a clue what's going on here? If not, we just may end up shelving 2.0 (and the Professional Extension) and going back to the old version. John. Date: 12-26-88 (13:52) Number: 432 To: DICK CAMPBELL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: FRAME TEXT WON'T FIT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Version 2.0 now checks to see if any frames or if any Box Text have been made so small as to not allow any text to be placed within them. Many people with version 1.1 chapters had appararently created box text instead of using rectangles and made them very small, without any text. Some created frames, typed something in them and then made them very narrow. In any event, we added the alert to do two things: .. 1. Warn people that they may have made a frame too small and therefore will not print text that they may have entered. 2. Stop the system from formatting infinitely from page to page when you specify a crazy value for a paragraph, such as 24 INCHES above space instead of 24 points. This setting, and similar blunders, could cause Ventura Publisher to take off chasing after the last page in the documen without ever stopping to put any text on the page. While the solution wa to simply hit the ESC key and then change the offending paragraph tag, this was not obvious to most people, so we added the alert. .. If you get this alert, you should first check each frame on the offendin page and make sure that one has not inadvertendly been collapsed into a very small frame. Do the same with Box Text (remember in version 2.0 you can now access BOTH frames and box text while in the Graphic mode). .. Next, check the attributes for Body Text and then for any other paragrap tag on the page. .. It is possible we may have a bug, as Gene mentioned in his reply to you. If so, it probably has to do with an interaction between a frame or box text that you draw and one of the repeating frames that Ventura Publishe generates (i.e., footers, headers, footnotes). We have not verified this and it may be pure speculation. .. If anyone has a SMALL chapter that exhibits this message which you canno determine to be the result of a too-small frame or box text, or an incorrect tag setting, please upload it and we'll take a look. Date: 12-26-88 (13:53) Number: 433 To: BOB TRACY Refer#: 430 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: VERSION 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE 1. There is no way to make the Print menu remember a default other than current page. .. 2. I don't understand your request for form fill-in with the Professiona Extension. .. 3. Note to all users: Both the base product and the Professional Extension will run without EMS memory. The press has been very confused on this point. The base product will use up to about 100K of EMS for loading portions of the GEM system software. However, it cannot use EMS for temporary buffers or for the documents itself. The Professional Extension can use up to 32M bytes of EMS for the document. The only thin that REQUIRES EMS is the Edco hyphenation dictionary. This requires 1.2M byte of EMS. If you don't feel you need this or don't have EMS memory, you can just use the hyphenation algorithms, just like you always have done. Having said all this, if the budget permits, buy at least 256K of EMS. Ventura Publisher runs a lot faster with long documents. You won't notice any difference with shorter documents. Also, EMS memory lets you run with the 16 color VGA or EGA drivers, or the gray-scale VGA driver. .. 4. The EGA INF files remember screen font information from the Set Printer Info dialog box. Probably a good idea to copy them, although not really necessary. .. 5. You can run either the Professional Extension, the base product, or both on any machine. If you load the Professional Extension after loadin the base product, the following files are added to your VENTURA directory: VPPROF.APP, VPPROF.RSC, VPPROF.RS1, VPPROF.OVR, PRNTBL.EXEÿ, PRN2TBL.LOD, and a few more screen fonts. To run Ventura Publisher base product you type VP; type VPPROF to run Professional Extension. You can demonstrate all features of either product, except the hyphenation dictionary. .. 6. If you edit the CHP files, do not delete the last character on each line. It is important! The character is a space, not an ASCII 255. .. 7. I don't plan to document any of the undocumented diagnostic information. This is an exercise left to the user . . . Date: 12-26-88 (13:54) Number: 434 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: (N/A) Subj: UPLOAD OF ENDNOTE.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, .. I've uploaded the first in what I hope will be a series of application notes about topics users have expressed interest in. Date: 12-26-88 (13:59) Number: 435 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: MARK DEFELICE Read: NO Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am a subscriber to the magazine, what do I need to do to get full time one the board? Date: 12-26-88 (14:12) Number: 440 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 433 From: BOB TRACY Read: YES Subj: VERSION 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dear John, Thanks for your prompt reply. I am downloading "STUFF.ARC" arc'd with PKARC. This file contains two different tables of the type I mentioned. Please look at the .TXT files to see that they have been formatted in an ASCII text editor and they "fall-in" to the table. Also the horizontal line in the procedure is controlled by the depth of the description paragraph in that it is drawn as a ruling line under. Both these files print in VP 2.0. New question - Is there any plan to include an automatic date and/or tim stamp? (that is - grab the system date and allow its use). Thanx, Bob Tracy Ventura VPUG Date: 12-26-88 (14:14) Number: 441 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 421 From: MARK WORSNOP Read: NO Subj: LOGIN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, Thanks for responding to my mail so promptly. Appreciate knowing whats going on. I agree with you getting the BBS up is alot more important than acticles on fonts etc... this BBS looks great! Thanx for all the work. Another question if you dont mind, send me in the correct direction if i am asking the wrong person. We sent in the the $$ and the forms for the 2.0 update quite awhile ago amd still havent received anytthing? Any ideas? Should I start calling or what? Date: 12-26-88 (14:17) Number: 444 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: MARK DEFELICE Read: YES Subj: LEVEL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I mentioned in another message, listed under Mark DEFELICE, that i live in Italy. I have helped a number of people there with Ventura. If we got a group going in Bologna, could we get access to a private line so that we could all easier? I read that there is a group at Milan. Do they ever call the board? It would be a shame for me to call from Bologna if they are calling with some of the same things from Milano. I'll check back in a day or two to see if something could be worked out. Thanks. I just wish the calls were cheaper, I'd get involved in forums, etc, but from there that is not realistic. Thanks, and a truly merry Christmas. (Buon Natale) Date: 12-26-88 (14:21) Number: 445 To: MARK WORSNOP Refer#: 441 From: SYSOP Read: NO Subj: LOGIN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Mark...Chris Johnson and Jim Alexander, two VPUG members, have expressed their concern about Xerox's policy about sending Version 2.0 to dealers before users. John Meyer from Ventura Software who monitors the Forum on a routine basis spotted the messages and joined the message thread. Sinc then, quite a few other users have put in their two cents worth. John Meyer has posted a address where users can write letters directly t the Xerox officer responsible for this policy. Do a scan on the message base to find the ones I speak about, leave a message if you wish and sen a letter to Xerox. Hopefully, they will try to upgrade users in the same fashion as other companies. You should also contact the Xerox address th package was to be shipped from, just in case it got lost in transit. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (14:23) Number: 448 To: MARK DEFELICE Refer#: 444 From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: LEVEL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sorry...the software will only accept two word names. The same is true o the new software we are about to place online. If you want, you can ente your name as Mark De_Felice. The BBS software will treat the underline character as part of the name. I hope to make modifications soon which will correct this problem. Just for your information, our magazine is about to be reprinted in Ital in Italian. You can call 408-227-5030 for the telephone number and address of the VPUG organization in Italy. They also plan to start a bulletin board system sometime in the near future. ...Gene Mark...when our new PCBoard system goes online, we will be installing a special door program which will allow you to call the Forum and download all messages since your last call. A special reader will be avaiable which will allow you to read the messages on your own computer system an respond to them. You can then call the Forum later to upload your responses and download the next batch of mail. Facilities will also be available for downloading compressed copies of any bulletins or newsletters which changed and files as well. When the new system goes online, check the NEWUSER conference area for the special Reader software, documentation on using it and other information you might find useful. As for the second group, you might want to call 408-227-5068 while you are here in the states and speak to Sonya Jackson or Carroll Baker. Both of these ladies have a thorough understanding of all activities currentl occurring in Europe. They can give you telephone numbers and contacts which you can use to broaden the scope of your user's group. If you wish to keep your group independent, please let us know. We will print your groups address and telephone numbers in every issue of the magazine. It's our policy to distribute information about Ventura Publisher to anyone interested in it, even competing groups and non-affiliated groups. Date: 12-26-88 (14:27) Number: 451 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RON BETZ Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: QMS LASER PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am interested in buying a postscript laser printer for ventura and hav seen literature on the PS 800-II and the PS 810 I would like to know which of these two would be the better choice and i anyone has had any experience with either of these printers. How is the print quality? How about speed in postscript mode? are the blacks dark and solid? Please help me with any information on these or other printer that are similar to these. ----- Thanks. Ron Betz Date: 12-26-88 (14:28) Number: 452 To: JOHN FINLAYSON Refer#: 431 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: SCREEN FONT REDRAW BLUES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John: The answer is DISK CACHING. A tiny little disk cache program will solve your problem completely. Ventura does not place screen fonts into memory past a certain point (unless you ask it to take more memory from conventional RAM and allocate it to screen fonts by using the /F switch in VP.BAT). You can place screen fonts into memory yourself by using a disk cache. Most of the good ones (FLASH, VCACHE, DCACHE) take up very little conventional memory and allow you to create caches in expanded memory. With your EMS capacity, you could create a 1 Mb EMS disk cache and Ventura would never go out to the hard drive again, except to save. As a consultant, I recommend disk caching programs to virtually all of my clients. If you want more information, you could call me at (415) 962-9270. Rick Altman Date: 12-26-88 (14:30) Number: 453 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 418 From: DICK WORTH Read: NO Subj: USER PROBLEM Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I received this question from John Finlayson. Can some one help me answe it. " After installing ver 2.0 before anything else, I created the screen fonts for out bi-weekly. To my chagrin, the screen now takes forever to redraw text screens, pausing to grind away at the hard disk---- (He say it is slow) Any solutions? Thanks.... He has 1.4 mb of EMS , and EDCO hyphenation is not installed. Date: 12-26-88 (14:34) Number: 454 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DICK WORTH Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: USER QUESTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I received this question from John Finlayson. Can someone help me answer it? "After installing version 2.0 before anything else, I created the screen fonts for our bi-weekly. To my chagrin, the screen fonts now take forever to redraw text screens, pausing to grind away at the hard disk --- (He says it is slow) Any Solutions? Thanks... He has 1.4 Mb of EMS and the EDCO hyphenation dictionary is not installed. Date: 12-26-88 (14:35) Number: 455 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DICK WORTH Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VENTURA CRASH Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have installed ver 2.0, everything has worked fine for 3 weeks. All of a sudden the folling problem occured. I load a gem file to print out. The print goes just fine, at the finish get a fatal crash, "Fatal Error! The GEM VDI screen driver couldn't be loaded" Needless to say I must do a hard re-boot. My free memory is 595,216 My config.sys = files=30 buffers=30 device= harddrive.sys device= ansi.sys There are no resident programs. I tried erasing all the .inf files from the Ventura directory. Any solutions? Dick... Date: 12-26-88 (14:37) Number: 456 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: DAMON KLETZIEN Read: NO Subj: NO CREDIT FOR UPLOADS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have uploaded two files in the last month, one earlier this week...but still get the message about needing to upload a files for further downloading rights.! ! Maybe it's because of the the early Dec. crash...and the current work to replace the present board...but thought it best to check. Maybe my uploads are not really working! Send me a note! Thanks! Christmas greetings, Damon Kletzien p.s. Really like VPG BBS! Date: 12-26-88 (14:49) Number: 459 To: RON BETZ Refer#: 451 From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: QMS LASER PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ron...I forwarded a copy of your message to Rick Altman. If I'm not mistaken, he's using a PS 810-II. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (14:56) Number: 460 To: DICK WORTH Refer#: NONE From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: RELAY MAIL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick...Kip Compton has a version of the Relay Mail door which interfaces to Wildcat. I'll have the door and a reader for it on line when the new system goes up. You can install the door on your system and download the messages faster than you can read then or copy them to a capture file. I transmits the messages in arced format, so the accompanying reader software decompresses the messages and allows you to read them on your own computer system. You can also respond to the messages and upload the responses during your next session. It should save a considerable amount of communications costs. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (14:56) Number: 461 To: DICK WORTH Refer#: 454 From: SYSOP Read: NO Subj: USER QUESTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick...download the file, PERFORM2.ARC, from Ventura Software. It contains performance guidelines for speeding up Ventura in cases like your users. John Meyer at Ventura Software plans to periodically update this file to add the latest information. It supercedes John's earlier release of the performance guide (VP_PRFM.ARC). ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (14:57) Number: 462 To: DICK WORTH Refer#: 455 From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: VENTURA CRASH Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick...make sure that the screen driver specified in the VP.BAT file exists in the \VENTURA directory. The filename and extension should be identical. I've seen that message occur for several reasons. I can happe if the user changes the screen font file extension in the Printer Infor dialog box if the specified screen fonts do not exist. Usually, you get this message if GEM cannot find the correct screen driver for the currently selected set of screen fonts. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (14:58) Number: 463 To: DAMON KLETZIEN Refer#: 456 From: SYSOP Read: NO Subj: NO CREDIT FOR UPLOADS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Damon...you should be able to continue downloading files even if the messages continue to be displayed. We'll take care of the file accountin when the new system goes up next week. We've been focusing almost all ou attention on getting the new system up and many of the Wildcat files desperately need updating. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (15:01) Number: 465 To: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Refer#: 403 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: WY700 DRIVER FOR VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Alan, Sorry I was unable to respond quickly to your message. The information Gene gave you is correct. The size of a logical page displayed on the screen is based on several things, the most important being the size (in pixels) of the screen font being used. The VGA fonts used with the 2.0 are larger (in pixels) than the EGA fonts, causing the logical page to b larger and, therefor, the amount displayed on the screen to be less. As Gene indicated, using the EGA fonts is the key. regards, jg (Thanks Gene!) cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-26-88 (15:04) Number: 467 To: DICK WORTH Refer#: 406 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: EPSON LQ2550 DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick, Sounds to me like a bug in the LQ driver. Unfortunately, I won't be able to take a look at it for quite a while, as I will be out of town until around the third week of January. I've made a note to myself to take a look, but you may want to remind me... The 24 pin drivers are written for 180x180 dpi, even though the printers are capable of 360x360. There were two reasons for this: first, printing at 360x360 would take much, much longer than at 180x180 (possibly four times as long); second, 360 dpi fonts would be required, which would not only be enormous and tough to distribute, but would also impose a font size limitation which would probably be unacceptable (I would guess no larger than 24 points -- a limitation imposed by the font management cod in the underlying GEM system software and the amount of space available to load in fonts). We don't intend to support 360 dpi. regards, jg Date: 12-26-88 (15:09) Number: 469 To: JOHN FINLAYSON Refer#: 431 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: SCREEN FONT REDRAW BLUES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John, Since you are now using the VGA fonts instead of the EGA fonts, more space is required for the fonts (they are larger) and more font swapping is likely to occur. In addition to Rick Altman's suggestion that you use a disk cache, I would also make two other recommendations: 1. When using the Professional Extension, use the /F= switch to allocate more space for the screen fonts. The default value is 68k, so you mig try a value like 90k (use /F=90). The upper limit is 128k -- don't exceed that or strange things may happen. If you try a large value and receive an error alert indicating that VP can't load (or anything else strange like that), back the number down. 2. Create a directory called \VENTURA\VPFONTS and move all of the fonts that directory (removing them from \VENTURA). If you have printer fon in the \VENTURA directory, you must move all of those, too. When the GEM system software detects that you have a VPFONTS subdirectory, it will not try to load any fonts from the \VENTURA directory, but alway look to the \VENTURA\VPFONTS directory for all fonts. This solution may be helpful to you if your \VENTURA directory has a huge number of files in it. When this happens, DOS must read the directory more than once anytime a file is opened, which often dramatically increase the overhead. A word of caution, though: always remember to add fonts to the \VENTURA\VPFONTS directory, rather than the \VENTURA directory Otherwise, they won't be loaded. Hope this helps! regards, jg Date: 12-26-88 (15:17) Number: 470 To: CARROLL BAKER Refer#: NONE From: ART SAFFRAN Read: YES Subj: MADISON VPUG Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I just wanted to bring you up to date on what is happening here in Wisconsin. We have had three meetings so far. Meetings are scheduled for the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 7-9 p.m. Our first meeting was just an organizational session. We had about 17 folks there. They are from all areas: Government, University, typesetters, graphic designers, private business. Our second meeting featured a demonstration of version 2.0. We got a beta version from a local software company. Your issue covering 2.0 was invaluable because I used that as a teaching manual. No one knew how to use 2.0 but the meeting went well with occasional cheers from the group as the saw new features. Our third meeting featured Heidi Princevalle, Xerox rep from Chicago. She drove to madison (3 hrs) to demonstrate the professional extension. Our 2.0 meeting had 35 people and the professional extension meeting dre 16 folks. We are trying to organize a bit more by having more people plan meetings. Our next meeting is in January (1/10/89) and we may have a demonstration of the Lasermaster Capcard printer system. Not all the folks at our group are members of the national VPUG. Can you send information and some sample copies of the magazine? That would encourage them to join. Send to Art Saffran, State Bar of Wisconsin, P.O. Box 7158, 402 West Wilson, Madison, WI 53707. Date: 12-26-88 (15:18) Number: 471 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ART SAFFRAN Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: DBASE PUBLISHING W/2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Is there anyone with experience in publishing large database directories with Ventura? We are publishing a directory of Wisconsin Lawyers consisting of 15,000 names and addresses. There will be 3 sections: Alphabetical listing, Firm listing, Geographical listing. It will be produced in 3 separate parts. We have the data on a Data General mini computer. The data will be pulled from the DG in Business Basic, pretagged for the Ventura style sheet. We'll download from the DG to PC and do some editing with WordPerfect then it's on to Ventura, proof printing on the laser and then on to be typeset. My question is, are there any suggestions, pitfalls to avoid, etc? W have upgraded our computers with several megabytes of expanded memory to handle the job. I don't know how Ventura will react to 15,000 names in the Alphabetical listing. Anyone with experience who can share ideas will be appreciated. I think it will work well...I hope. Thanks. Date: 12-26-88 (15:19) Number: 472 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ART SAFFRAN Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: DRAWING PROGRAMS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am looking to buy a high powered drawing program but have not read any in depth reviews to help decide. I am considering Illustrator for PC, Micrografx Designer, Gem Artline, and there is a new one by Corel. Does anyone have any advice here? I heard that Artline is not to be missed. Should I buy Illustrator though because it is the standard? It would be helpful if Ventura Professional! would review these programs in a good comparison. The programs also have to work well with Pagemaker because we use both Ventura and Pagemaker very heavily. Thanks Date: 12-26-88 (15:21) Number: 473 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BRYAN EGGERS Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: TEXT AND TAGS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I may overlooking something obvious, but using VP 2.0, is there an easy way to copy text (and tags) from one chapter into another, and still retain all the formatting? I tried copying text using the PASTE command and although it did copy and the text contained the tag NAMES, the actua tag definitions were lost during the process. I had to manually reconstruct the tags. There must be an easier way! Also, does anyone know of a utility that will allow one to create PS output for "books" that can be given to a print shop. For example, if I using an 8 1/2 by 6 format page size, the printer would want two pages vertically (next to each other) on an 8 1/2" by 12" page. However, when books are printed you might have page 1 next to page 200 (on the the sam 8 1/2" by 12" sheet) so that when all the pages are bound the numbers come out correctly. I've heard that there is a utility that works with VP that can correctly resort the output to conform to this printing/binding requirement. Can anyone tell me the name of the company that publishes it? Thanks very much. Bryan Eggers SUMMIT Telecommunications 818-707-9991 Date: 12-26-88 (15:22) Number: 474 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DICK CAMPBELL Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: STYLE REPORTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thank you both for quick replies to Frame'Frame....wont fit' query. I have just printed out a style sheet info for a fairly complex newsletter and I find that there is no header on any page but the first, and that at times the style or the face or the sizr does not print at the start of a new tag descriptor. It's like if the poit size does not change when the next tag is described, the size ain't printed. Is that so? No page numbers either. All very disconserting with a five-page 16 tag printout. Dick Campbell cc: Gene Rodrigues John Meyer Date: 12-26-88 (15:26) Number: 477 To: SYSOP Refer#: 460 From: DICK WORTH Read: YES Subj: RELAY MAIL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, how do I contact Kip Compton or get a hold of the Relay Mail Door? Thanks for the info... Date: 12-26-88 (15:27) Number: 478 To: SYSOP Refer#: 462 From: DICK WORTH Read: YES Subj: VENTURA CRASH Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I cured some of the problems. Have been working on it, and found that if I install the cga driver then it works correctly without crashing, however the drawback is that the screen resolution is not acceptable. I will keep experimenting with other setups. Also will verify the exact name of the screen name, and that called in the bat file. Thanks. Dick.. Date: 12-26-88 (15:36) Number: 480 To: DICK WORTH Refer#: 477 From: SYSOP Read: NO Subj: RELAY MAIL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick...I should have copies of all versions of the door about a week after the new systems goes up. (about 1 week before we go up). Date: 12-26-88 (15:37) Number: 481 To: DICK WORTH Refer#: 478 From: SYSOP Read: NO Subj: VENTURA CRASH Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick...generally if you can get a system running on a CGA with Ventura, problem with insufficient memory is a primary suspect if you cannot run the same system with graphics adapters which require larger amounts of memory. Try using the MAPMEM utility that comes with the TSRCOM25 programs. MAPMEM will show you how much of the 640K is left in your machine after the display drivers are loaded. The TSRCOM25.ARC (good guess at name) file is avaiable on this board. Call me at VPUG if you still can't get the system up. I'll try to walk you through the problem over the phone. By next week, I'll have a tech support voice line for the board to help isolate such problems. I'll pos the number on the new system when the lines are all installed. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (15:39) Number: 482 To: HERBERT STRANDBERG Refer#: NONE From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sorry, but this board will never be placed on CompuServe. They gave us the run-around for so many years we just gave up trying. However, Xerox will be placing a Forum on line on CompuServe reasonably soon, so you ca try calling them when it's ready. We'll post information about the Conference when the new area is ready. All subscribers will be updated in about a week when the new system goes online. We are opening 5 lines and some of the automated logon support you are familiar with using Compuserve with TACPIS. ...Gene Date: 12-26-88 (15:43) Number: 484 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 417 From: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Read: NO Subj: WY700 DRIVER FOR VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dear Gene and John, Thanks for your replies concerning the VGA versus EGA fonts. I followed John's fisrt suggestion, doing a partial re-install for the Hercules driver. When done, the Printer Info box shows VGA for screen fonts. I changed this to EGA. The result is a very small change in amount of visible page--about 1 pica out of 54. This is still significantly less than the page highteight I was using in Ventura 1.1. Could this be due t the Bitstream fonts that I installed for the VGA device? I have not yet tried to re-install the EGA version of these extra fonts? I will wait fo your opinion before trying this time- and space-consuming option. I appreciate your help. cc: John Grant Date: 12-26-88 (15:44) Number: 485 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: 465 From: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Read: YES Subj: WY700 DRIVER FOR VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dear Gene and John, Thanks for your replies concerning the VGA versus EGA fonts. I followed John's fisrt suggestion, doing a partial re-install for the Hercules driver. When done, the Printer Info box shows VGA for screen fonts. I changed this to EGA. The result is a very small change in amount of visible page--about 1 pica out of 54. This is still significantly less than the page highteight I was using in Ventura 1.1. Could this be due t the Bitstream fonts that I installed for the VGA device? I have not yet tried to re-install the EGA version of these extra fonts? I will wait fo your opinion before trying this time- and space-consuming option. I appreciate your help. cc: John Grant Date: 12-26-88 (15:45) Number: 486 To: JOHN FINLAYSON Refer#: 431 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: SCREEN FONT REDRAW BLUES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE To get fast screen drawing with version 2.0 (faster than 1.1), do two things: .. 1. Use a disk cache of at least 256K. This disk cache should be placed i EMS memory. You computer (if it is a 386) probably includes a disk cache If not, a cache such as Lightning, or PC Kwik will work just fine. .. 2. Use the /F switch in your VPPROF.BAT file. Add this to the end of the line which begins with DRVRMRGR. The font buffer is normally 68K, but with EMS installed (and especially if you also configure with a little EXTENDED (not EMS, EXTENDED) memory and use an XMS driver such as HIMEM.SYS or 386max, you can specify a /F setting of up to 168K. For you purposes, any setting larger than the largest screen font file (i.e. about 90K) will work wonders. .. My recommendation: Set up a disk cache of at least 256K. Set the /F switch to the largest value you can withou causing Ventura Publisher to not load (it will display a message telling you it doesn't have enough memory and then return you to DOS). Don't worry about just barely having enough memory. With Professional Extension, all buffers and all of the document are placed in EMS memory, so being close to the minimum conventional memory is OK. Try /F=128 as a start. Finally, remove any screen fonts that you don't need, especially the larger ones. Ventura Publisher always loads the screen fonts when you type VPPROF, and you might as well not wait any longer than you have to. Date: 12-26-88 (15:46) Number: 487 To: ART SAFFRAN Refer#: 471 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: DBASE PUBLISHING W/2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Here are few tips, off the top of my head: .. 1. Use the (line break) character instead of carriage return + line feed to separate each record in the database. This will DRAMATICALLY reduce the load time. Having said this, no one paragraph can be more tha 8,000 bytes, and certain limitations within Ventura Publisher make the practical limit somewhat less than this (6,000 to 7,000 bytes). Therefore, what I do is create a database extraction program which uses between each record, and then every 30-100 records (depending on the length of a record) I separate the record with a true carriage return line feed combination. .. 2. Experiment in advance with the different ways to import data into Ventura Publisher. You can, for instance, separate fields within a recor using tabs (ASCII 9). This is straightforward, and easy to use. However, it does not allow text within a field to wrap to the next line. If you want this effect, you must either tag each field with a separate tag (e.g., @TAG 1 = Mary Jones@TAG 2 = 35 Main Street), or else place the data with a Ventura Publisher table format (Professional Extension only) .. 3. Import the data into Ventura Publisher using the Xywrite or Wordstar, not the ASCII format. The ASCII format can be used, but then you must remember to place TWO carriage return-line feed combinations between eac record in the database. .. For more information, read Appendix H in the base Ventura Publisher's Reference Guide. Date: 12-26-88 (15:47) Number: 488 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO Subj: UPLOAD OF VPAPP_2.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, .. The VPAPP_2.ARC file is the second application note that I've sent to yo (ENDNOTE.ARC was the first). This note provides the results of a detaile set of measurements which I performed on my COMPAQ 286 with a variety of screen drivers and different EMS and HIMEM.SYS combinations. The key benefit of this app note is that it shows exactly the CHKDSK-reported memory that must be available in order to run either the base product or the Professional Extension, given various different configurations. It also lets users see the benefits of adding EMS and/or a little (64K) of extended memory (the latter lets you load HIMEM.SYS). .. Hope this is useful info for all those out there in Venturaland. Date: 12-26-88 (15:51) Number: 489 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: STEVE GREEN Read: (N/A) Subj: UPLOAD OF IDC.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE IDC.ARC contains the program IDCSHELL. This is a DOS shell. It contain utilities to transfer, erase, archive, and dearchive files. It can do them individually, or en masse. It can generate a DOS tree diagram of your logical disk drive. You can change file attributes. The dearchiving portion of the program is actually the latest release of the NARC program. IDCSHELL is menu driven; mouse support is included. cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-26-88 (16:04) Number: 495 To: RON BETZ Refer#: 451 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: QMS LASER PRINTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ron: I have been using the PS-810 for some time now, and am delighted with its print quality. I am not as familiar with the PS-800 II, but I believe it to be a laser printer that is designed for more heavy-duty work -- several sheet bins, high duty cycle, etc. If that is the case, I would be surprised if the print quality were as good as the 810. If print quality is your priority -- as well it should be -- you absolutely cannot go wrong with the 810. My opinion is shared by virtually all the major DTP and general computer magazines that have evaluated PostScript printers. Rick Altman Date: 12-26-88 (16:04) Number: 496 To: ART SAFFRAN Refer#: 472 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: DRAWING PROGRAMS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Art: The issue of drawing programs is too lengthy to cover on a bulletin board, but I can tell you this: If you intend to use your drawing program with PageMaker and other Windows applications, you are liable to be frustrated with Artline, which only exports in GEM and EPS formats. That means that you would have to export everything to Windows in non-displaying EPS files. While an excellent product in conjunction with Ventura, until Artline beefs up its export menu, it takes a backseat to all of the very capable Windows drawing programs when it comes to exporting outside of GEM. If you would like to talk further about drawing programs, call me at (415) 962-9270. Rick Altman Date: 12-26-88 (16:06) Number: 497 To: BRYAN EGGERS Refer#: 473 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: TEXT AND TAGS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bryan: Question No. 1: The only method that I am aware of to move tags and their formatting characteristics from one chapter to another is to simply duplicate the original chapter with the SAVE AS command. Probably, that is not what you had in mind, and this answer is unsatisfactory. Question No. 2: With a PostScript printer, you could handle your signature pagination chore by creating EPS files of each of your pages and then bringing them back onto 8 1/2 x 12 pages, each in their proper position. Now if this is a lengthy project, such a task would drive you nuts. The Laser Edge in Oakland has a product that automates this task, although I am not sure of the precision or the detail of the product. You can call them at (415) 835-1581. Rick Altman Date: 12-26-88 (16:09) Number: 498 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RICK ALTMAN Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: JUST-FOR-FUN USER SURVEYS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE What This Board Needs Is Some Entertainment... This bulletin board is too serious! Therefore, I am suggesting a just-for-fun activity in which all who call up can participate. Every caller is invited to offer one thing that he or she really likes about Ventura Publisher 2.0 and one thing that is really galling. It doesn't have to be a new feature -- in fact, there aren't any ground rules at all. Maybe if there is significant participation, Gene can keep some statistics. And particularly good responses may find their way into my book come late February. I'll start: I really like... the programmable function keys that allow me to tag paragraphs in Text mode and with great rapidity. I really dislike... the fact that repeats any and all menu choices, even those that already have keyboard shortcuts, like mode and view changes. I wish could be made to ignore the menu choices that have keyboard shortcuts or those that are not likely to be immediately repeated. Anyone else out there want to play? cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-26-88 (16:09) Number: 499 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: JUST-FOR-FUN USER SURVEYS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE What This Board Needs Is Some Entertainment... This bulletin board is too serious! Therefore, I am suggesting a just-for-fun activity in which all who call up can participate. Every caller is invited to offer one thing that he or she really likes about Ventura Publisher 2.0 and one thing that is really galling. It doesn't have to be a new feature -- in fact, there aren't any ground rules at all. Maybe if there is significant participation, Gene can keep some statistics. And particularly good responses may find their way into my book come late February. I'll start: I really like... the programmable function keys that allow me to tag paragraphs in Text mode and with great rapidity. I really dislike... the fact that repeats any and all menu choices, even those that already have keyboard shortcuts, like mode and view changes. I wish could be made to ignore the menu choices that have keyboard shortcuts or those that are not likely to be immediately repeated. Anyone else out there want to play? cc: Gene Rodrigues Date: 12-27-88 (16:12) Number: 500 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: JIM REYNOLDS Read: YES Subj: DOWNLOADS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The download file request isn't working I request a file and it goes over and in a moment said it's complete when all along it didn't transfer the file. Thank, Date: 12-28-88 (06:21) Number: 504 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: PETER CONRAD Read: (N/A) Subj: VPUG SUB RENEWAL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Carrol, We received a subscription renewal letter in the mail addressed as follows: .LIBBY S. HILLMAN .HEART CONSIOUSNESS CHURC .P. O. BOX 782 .MIDDLETOWN CA 95461 Our records show that we paid $36.00 on 8/12/88 (Our CK# 8702). Do we need to renew so soon! Also Our name and address change doesn't seem to have gotten through (This was given to you at one of the VPUG meets) and is as follows: .LIBBY S. BALTRUSCH .HARBIN SPRINGS PUBLISHING .P.O. BOX 782 .MIDDLETOWN CA 95461 We are also logged on to the VPUG BBS (Peter Conrad is our Computer Manager and TeleComm person) and were wondering if we are getting subscriber privilages. Please resond here or E-MAIL us on CIS [76137,1553]. Tnx. LB;pc Date: 12-28-88 (06:40) Number: 506 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 424 From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: YES Subj: ARABIC FONT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE There are few companies in Texsas and California that re-do PCs and MACs for Middle East, however they do not like to share anything since it is a good market and lots money in it! I've been planing for the last few years to create at least one font myself. But you know how that goes. I have the printed font, it needs to be scaned and worked on with PTF. Maybe this summer! Date: 12-28-88 (06:45) Number: 507 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 426 From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: YES Subj: DELETING MESSAGES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thats fine. I just could not understand what was going on. The story was that someone posted a message about 386-to-the-max and I asked him about QEMM-386 and a few message later there was my answer. So I decided to go back and delete the message and the rest is history! Date: 12-28-88 (07:05) Number: 508 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Read: YES Subj: ARC FILES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene: Is there a utility available for decoding ARC files? I have searched around and cannot find it. Thanks, Alan. Date: 12-28-88 (13:43) Number: 509 To: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Refer#: 484 From: SYSOP Read: YES Subj: WY700 DRIVER FOR VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Allan...I'll have to simulate the problem myself to see if I can help. I don't have a WYSE 700 here now but should have one here in a few days. Hopefully another user may come through with other advice. My earlier instructions should work, however, since I used this technique quite often with version 1.1. Theoretically, the EGA fonts should give you the same image size you viewed before. ...Gene Date: 12-28-88 (19:52) Number: 516 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: SYSOP Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VPUG MEMBERS TAKE NOTE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Read the following if you are currently a member of VPUG: I've upgraded all users who use names which are reasonably close to the person identified on the envelope labels for the magazine. These are the names placed in the VPUG database. Many memberships are recorded by company name. I need to know the names of all users who are currently logging on to the FORUM if the name on the envelope label is not the name you use to log on to the system. Registered users will be granted increased logon time, the ability to chat with other VPUG members logged into other nodes, and access to files which are not open to the public. Additional benefits include access to special door programs designed to download user specified sections of the message base, files, bulletins and other useful information. With the mail readers placed on the system, users will be able to download mail, read it at home, and upload the responses at a later date. These functions will only be granted to VPUG members. Members will also have access to two additional phone lines. Check your user file from the Main menu. If the "Security" field in your user file is not 30 or higher, your access rights on the system have not been upgraded. Be sure to leave a comment for the sysop if your subscription is under a different name or a company name. Note that access to the restricted areas on the board will be limited to one user per company membership. The above does not apply to certain users. These include members of the Ventura Software team, certain members of Team Xerox, and the moderators who monitor the conferences. If you have questions, leave a question for the Sysop. ...Gene Date: 12-28-88 (22:22) Number: 517 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 487 From: ART SAFFRAN Read: YES Subj: DBASE PUBLISHING W/2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE To John Meyer: Thank you for your reply to my questions about large database publishing with 2.0. Your suggestions to place instead of separate tags for separate records is a good one. However, we have some limitations: In our alphabetical attorney listing (15,000 records) we need to have the last name place in the header, so the last name must be a tag. The first name follows on the same line as a second tag with a tab ( <9> ) to the phone number (with dot leaders). The next line is another tag listing the firm name and address. This last part will have the fields separated by to save memory. So, in our case, I can't figure any way to separate records by because of our need for headers and dot leaders to the phone numbers. Can you tell me how to calculate the memory requirements for this project? Also, if the chapter exceeds my memory, will Ventura swap to disk automatically or will it BLOW UP and refuse to run? I have 4 megabytes of memory on my computer. The listing will be in four columns on the underlying page. With expanded memory Ventura does not give me a too complex frame message but would it help to use the repeating frame method anyway? Please advise. Sorry for the rambling look to this message, but I am new to the BBS. If it would help, I can send you a copy of the preliminary test chapter of our directory listing. I had it typeset and it looks great! If this works it will prove the immense power of Ventura Publisher! You have really created a beauty...but you already know that. Thanks for all your help...Art Date: 12-28-88 (22:44) Number: 518 To: CARROLL BAKER Refer#: NONE From: ART SAFFRAN Read: YES Subj: VPUG BBS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I just wanted to let you know how useful the BBS is. I have already received answers to questions from John Meyer and Rick Altman. It is incredibly satisfying to be able to talk to the most knowledgeable folks about questions with Ventura. Date: 12-29-88 (07:44) Number: 520 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 413 From: DENIS LATKOWSKI Read: YES Subj: EMS DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sorry to intrude, but I just received the latest version of 386MAX (4.02) and it's better than ever!!! My system has 512K of memory with a 2 meg additional board. After installing 386MAX, loading 86K of TSR's into high memory, I'm left with 605K at the DOS prompt (I'm using Compaq 3.31). No other program will backfill my memory, load TSR's into high memory, and leave me with over 600K for program use. (The older version left me with 602K; so Qualitas has the new version taking up less DOS memory). In addition, there is a separate program call 386LOAD ($35) which will load any device drivers used into extended (?) memory, freeing up more DOS memory. For example, after loading the 386max.sys program, 386LOAD will take P Mace's cache.sys and place that in high memory, freeing dos memory. Cache.sys loaded normally leaves me with 595K; using 386LOAD, I have 604K. Cannot recommend 386max highly enough!!! Date: 12-29-88 (21:41) Number: 524 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: ART SAFFRAN Read: NO Subj: HOW TO USE THE BBS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I tried to download Packet1.arc and Packet2.arc but the BBS told me that those files do not exist on the disk. I would like to learn more about the conferences etc. When I logged on for the first time there was a Publishing DataBases with Ventura conference, but with your new BBS software it is gone. I guess I'm not sure how to make the best use of the conferences. Some general advice would be helpful. Thanks. Date: 12-30-88 (02:01) Number: 526 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN GRANT Read: (N/A) Subj: HIATUS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Howdy ALL! I'm going to be out of town and won't be able to respond to any questions until around January 21. Happy New Year to ALL! regards, jg Date: 12-30-88 (12:27) Number: 528 To: ALL Refer#: 75 From: JOHN FINLAYSON Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: WP 5.0 LOAD/SAVE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I fear there may be a bug in the WordPerfect 5.0 load module. We discovered it when we converted our bi-monthly newsletter to VP 2.0 and WP 5.0 (from VP 1.1 and WP 4.1). We first noticed that the WP 5.0 yen characters (which posed no problem for the VP 1.1 / WP 4.1 combo) were being stripped when loading into VP 2.0. We regarded this as a deficiency rather than a bug, and we easily worked around it by using <157> instead of the WP yen character. That would have been acceptable by itself, but we soon discovered that when VP 2.0 saves a text file in WP 5.0 format, the yen character is still encoded in WP 4.1 format (in hex, WP 4.1 stores the yen character as E1 9D E1, while 5.0 stores it as C0 0C 04 C0). Not only was WP 5.0 unable to read the file as saved by VP 2.0 (it chokes at the first yen sign), but VP 2.0 itself can no longer read it, even though it was VP 2.0 that last saved the file. I can't help but suspect that there may be other characters that are being saved in the wrong code. Has anyone else run into this problem? Is there a newer version of the WP 5.0 load module (ours is WDPERF5.LOD, 8/16.88)? Date: 12-30-88 (18:27) Number: 530 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 506 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: ARABIC FONT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'll keep my eye open for some fonts and I'll talk to some people I know down south next week to see if they have any leads. ...Gene Date: 12-30-88 (18:38) Number: 531 To: ALAN BLUMENTHAL Refer#: 508 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: ARC FILES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Join the Main Board. Enter "J M" or "J 0" without the quotes to enter the Main Board area. Then enter "F" to see the file directory menu. A separate area has been created for ARC utilities and other file compression programs. We use the files contained in PK361.EXE for the Forum. The PK361.EXE file is a self extracting archive. That's why it has the .EXE file extension. Download the file and place it in a separate directory, then enter the PK361 command. A set of archive utilites and documentation will be extracted from the file. Prints the documentation to learn how to use the programs. I've added a special DOOR to a on-line tutorial system. One of the tutorials in on using ARC files. It has some good basic information that will steer you in the right direction. To enter the DOORS area, type DOOR or OPEN from the main menu. When the Door menu appears, select the Tudoor or Tutorial Door. A new menu will appear offering more options. Choose the option for the File Archive tutorial. The door program will automatically return you to the Forum when the tutorial is over. Oh yes...before I forget. After you download you file from the Main board, you can return to the VENTURA Conference by entering J 1 from the Main menu. If you just enter J, a menu of conference options will appear on the screen. Also, download the file "PACKET2.ARC". I contains all the Help screens on the Forum. You can read these to learn how to get around. A Ventura formatted version of the files is being formatted at this time. Bob Moody should have it online in about a week. ....Gene Date: 12-30-88 (22:17) Number: 538 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: NEW TELEPHONE LINES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I M P O R T A N T ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Two new bulletin board nodes have been installed along with 2 more telephone lines. Only users who have a value of 30 or higher listed in the Security # field of their user information (user file) can use the new lines. Users who attempt to call the two new lines with a insufficient security clearance can only use the Goodbye command to exit the systems. All users who subscibe to the magazine using the same name they use to log on to the Forum have been validated for the new lines. However, many users call the Forum from companies who subscibe to the magazine. I need to know who you are and what companies you work for before access to the new lines will be granted. Note that only one user per subscription is entitles to access the private lines. These telephone lines are currently active: Public Access Line: 408-227-4818 Subscriber Line 1 : 408-227-0223 Subscriber Line 2 : 408-227-0224 Try calling the 227-0224 number first. Hunting is being installed on the 227-0224 number in about a week. The system will automatically hunt for an unused line when the hunting feature is enabled. Two additional lines will be installed in January. Access to these lines will be available at an annual fee. VPUG will use the sale of access rights to these lines as the only source of funds for supporting the Forum. The Extended Support Lines will be offered for an annual fee of $50.00. Extended Support Users will have access to several special conference areas containing all the non-copyrighted files, clipart, and information collected and produced by VPUG since 1986. Additional incentives are also planned. Call VPUG at 408-227-5068 if you're interested. Long distance caller can significantly cut their communications costs by downloading the file RLYRDR30.ARC from the Main Board area. (Enter "J M" from the Ventura Conference to access the Main Board area. Instructions for downloading and uploading mail from the Forum and the special reader program are contained in the file. The Relay Mail Reader is a shareware product. Relay Reader users (subscribers only) can access a special DOOR program which allows then to upload and download mail. The mail is compressed and placed in ARC format to reduce file size. The Relat Reader program extracts the messages from the ARC file and creates an environment very similar to PCBoard for reading and respondng to messages. More about all this later as we continue to bring the new software on-line. Thanks...Gene R. Date: 12-31-88 (01:05) Number: 540 To: SYSOP Refer#: 23 From: RICHARD PRESTWOOD Read: YES Subj: PACKET1 & PACKET2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thank you for the info, Gene. I appreciate the VPUG BBS. Happy New Year. Richard Prestwood Date: 12-31-88 (09:58) Number: 543 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 486 From: JOHN FINLAYSON Read: YES Subj: SCREEN FONT REDRAW BLUES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE To Rick Altman, John Meyer, John Grant, Dick Worth... Thanks for the help on the screen font problem. I tried your suggestions, and it works fine. John. Date: 01-01-89 (18:57) Number: 548 To: RICHARD PRESTWOOD Refer#: 540 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: PACKET1 & PACKET2 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE No problem Richard...Gene Date: 01-02-89 (02:04) Number: 555 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RON BETZ Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: HARDWARE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am looking for a large screen color monitor (19 inch). I have received information on the Mitsubishi line of monitors and would like any information that anyone has on these or other monitors of this kind. Also, what kind of graphic cards should be used with these? Does Mitsubishi supply a graphics driver for ventura publisher ver 2.0? Any info would be greatly appreciated!!! Thanks, Ron Betz Date: 01-02-89 (06:28) Number: 556 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: HANS ANDRIESE Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello Gene, This is a message either to you or Bob Moody. Of the record (?!!) It is officially confirmed to me that there will be a Ventura Publisher edition on the Macintosh format. Not engineered by Ventura Software but by some other guys. What do you know about this? Who delivers the code? When do you expect some details? Do you have already information? . Do you have any bug-reports on 2.0? . There will be a 2.01 release shortly. What will it contain? . Do you know of a driver for the HP deskjet? . These in short are my burning questions on this moment. Congratulations with the new board. I have to get better acquainted with it. . Best wishes for the new year to all of you. Make it a beautiful one!! Hans Andriese for all Dutch Ventura users. Date: 01-02-89 (11:31) Number: 557 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: WILLIAM CAFFERY Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Congratulations on a most successful cut-over to the new system!!! ... but what a way to spend the holidays. Still, this makes an awfully nice present for all your many grateful users. A gift that keeps on giving all year. Many thanks for your patience and persistence... and happy New Year! /s Date: 01-02-89 (16:52) Number: 559 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: HERBERT STRANDBERG Read: YES Subj: VPPROF QUESTIONS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have several questions about VP & VP Professional Extensions: 1) On a PS/2 with VGA, what is the performance hit if I select color over B&W. I have lots of EMS memory. 2) I installed PROF EXT but answered NO to the question about installing the dictionary. It was copied to disk anyway (yes I finally found it in the documentation where it said that it was going to do that anyway!!!!). Since it is on the disk, what changes can I make should I want to change my mind and use it? What is the performance hit? Dictionary based hyphenation is not critical to me. 3) If I create or edit a document with VPPROF, and do not use any of its extended function in my document, can the document later be editted with VP? 4) Are you aware of the problem importing GEM Artline files into Ventura. Black fill areas are correctly displayed and printed by Artline (as black), correctly displayed by Ventura (as black), but printed as BRICKS on a HPLJ2. If I select a fill of 87 percent gray in Artline, then all blacks become gray, and the printed BRICKS are now plain BLACK. Is there a patch so that I can create all of my Artline files NOW as BLACK, and have them printed as BLACK. I would hate to go back and have to correct all of my Artline files from 87 percent to 100 percent after Ventura fixes their problem. These are .GEM files. 5) What needs to be done to install VP & VPPROF under GEM 3.1 environment? (I have EMS memory). Will there be enough room for VENTURA to run? How to I get the icon for starting Ventura? 6) What are your feelings about running VENTURA under DesView? Are there any problems which I should be aware of? 7) On my PS/2 Model 80, I am running Softbytes 386. Does VENTURA make use of any HIMEM? Do I need to do a SB386 OPENHIGH (?) to activate it for Ventura to use? What are the smallest blocks of HIMEM that it can use. Mine is a little fractured by the PS/2 ROM on various adapter cards which I have installed. Looking forward to your reply or comments from any other user. Herb Date: 01-03-89 (15:21) Number: 564 To: ART SAFFRAN Refer#: 517 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: DBASE PUBLISHING W/2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The answers to many of your questions can be found on the last page of Appendix J of the Refernce Guide. It lists the memory requirements. Pay particular attention to the number of line elements and the paragraph size limitations. Date: 01-04-89 (05:21) Number: 574 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: JOHN POWELL Read: YES Subj: COLOR OUTPUT SUPPORT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John, Can you help me re:msg #320. I am looking for information on color output support for VP 1.1 and/or 2.0 to Xerox 4020, HP PaintJet or a service I can use to obtain color charts, graphs, words etc., from VP thanks.......... jp Date: 01-04-89 (05:26) Number: 575 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: JOHN POWELL Read: YES Subj: COLOR SUPPORT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Oops.... thats msg # 302 not 320 .... sorry John jp Date: 01-04-89 (13:27) Number: 577 To: JOHN FINLAYSON Refer#: 528 From: RON LAFON Read: YES Subj: WP 5.0 LOAD/SAVE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello. In response to your WordPerfect 5.0 message, it IS a documented bug. To get ASCII characters above 127 over into Ventura, replace them with the . To save the corrupted WordPerfect file, bring it into a text editor and strip off the header (its at the beginning and it will be obvious where it ends). What you have left will be an ASCII file which you can bring back into WordPerfect 5.0 using the Textin function. Then save it, alter the extended ascii codes to Ventura codes, and it will import correctly. This is a workaround until a "fixed" WordPerfect 5.0 loadable filter is available. Good luck... Date: 01-04-89 (13:30) Number: 578 To: HERBERT STRANDBERG Refer#: 559 From: RON LAFON Read: YES Subj: VPPROF QUESTIONS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi. Change the Artline fill to 87% and it will print as black from Ventura. This is a workaround until a patch is available, and happens with all printers except PostScript... Date: 01-04-89 (16:13) Number: 579 To: RON LAFON Refer#: 578 From: HERBERT STRANDBERG Read: YES Subj: ARTLINE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE 87% gray is the temp fix for ArtLine, but if I have to wait for six months for a patch, then I will have a heck of a lot of Artline files that will print 87% grey, when I wanted black, after the fix is received!!! Any help from Ventura in the near future? Any patch for a Laserjet? Herb Date: 01-05-89 (07:24) Number: 581 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: VENTURA BUGS? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have come across several apparent bugs in 2.0 with the professional extension. First, When loading multiple copies of a TIFF image from the assignment list into multiple frames any place in a chapter the HALF-TONE SCREEN TYPE SETTING stays the same for all of the frames, in other words, if I set the half-tone screen type to DOT in one frame, then select another frame with the same image and set the half-tone screen type to line, (or elipse,default or custom), the first frame mysteriously resets the half-tone screen tye to DOT. If I have four frames on a page with COPIES of an image in each frame the half-tone screen type for ALL of the frames resets to the last selected half-tone screen type....very disconcerting. On the other hand, if I load multiple copies of a TIFF file into the assignment list, and place and place a different copy of the same file in each frame, this problem does not persist. Also, the other settings in the Image Controls do not reflect this problem, i.e, screen angle and lines per inch can be set differently in frames containing copies of a TIFF file. The second bug I have noticed - this is not unique to 2.0, but also in the earlier versions - is that in Graphic Mode, when selecting line thicknesses greater than .5 inch will NOT display on the screen greater than .5 of an inch, in other words, when I set a line thickness to 1 inch, the screen displays a line .5 inch in width. The printout however is correct. Another problem crops up when I load two .PIC files (brought over from our MAC via MacLink Plus) into the assignment list, then creating a frame and selecting the first file into the frame, adjusting the sizing and scaling, etc, then I copy the frame, insert it on page two and remove the image from that frame and replace it with the second .PIC file from the assignment list. When I go to page 1, the image that was placed in the second frame is now in the frame on page 1. The name that appears in the current selection box is the correct file name but the image is not the correct image. If I try to remove the file from the frame and click on the correct file name again in the assignment list, image #2 still reappears in its place. Then the program crashes and I get the statement Command.com not found system halted and I have to reboot. This problem has happened to me on two other occasions using different files. (You may like to know that I am using a Micronics 386 maching with 1MB of extended memory. I have tried using three different drivers to convert the extended to exanded memory, and the same problem persists). Another oddity is that my Pop-Up Menus (those with the inverted arrows), display as a solid box with a three quarter thin frame around the box. I have noticed in the Ventura Manual that most of the screen shots show the inverted arrows, but on page 5-124, 6-25, and other pages, show this same kind of box. (I own a Genius2 dual page monitor). Thank you Date: 01-05-89 (10:47) Number: 582 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: HERBERT STRANDBERG Read: YES Subj: MESSAGE 559 QUESTIONS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE A few days ago I asked a few questions in message 559 and private message 560. I have since found the answers to questions 3 and 6, and understand that the group is aware of item 4. I am still wondering about the patch for printing GEM Artline files, and your answer to the other questions. Thank you for you time and fine product. Herb Date: 01-05-89 (14:22) Number: 584 To: DENIS LATKOWSKI Refer#: 520 From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: YES Subj: EMS DRIVER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Denis, Today I got the QEMM-386 for my Unisys PW2/850 (a 386 PC) and I think both in price and capabilities it is better than 386MAX. First of all it only takes up 1.5K of regular memory. It has 2 file LOADHI.sys and LOADHI.COM, the first file will be used to put the devices in the high-mem and the the second file to put programs. For example I did DEVICE=LOADHI.SYS ansi.sys to put away the ansi.sys in config.sys and since I am using MOUSE.COM in my autoexec.bat I did: LOADHI MOUSE.COM and that loads my MOUSE driver into high memory. This version, 4.2, also supports LIM EMS 4.0 and EEMS 3.2. It lets you decide how much of the extended memory (I have total of 2 meg on mother board) to be left aloan, how much to be used for expanded memory and lots of other options. But, best of all it only cost me $40.00! After I load everything including NOVEL network driver I am left with 600k of memory. Date: 01-05-89 (19:45) Number: 585 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DICK GASKILL Read: (N/A) Subj: SYSTEM SPEEDUP UTILITIES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE First, apologies to all who tried to access these utilities and didn't find them. We just moved and the computer was in pieces for a while. Anyway, I uploaded them tonite. Actually, there are a lot more than just system speedup utilities. There are 2 files, UTILITY.ARC, which contains something like 60 programs, including the ones I mentioned in my article, and UTILDOC.ARC, which contains an index for all the files, and a separate .DOC file for all the programs in UTILITY.ARC. Incidentally, I have had these programs on my system for several months and no problems (like viruses) at all. Many of the programs are from other BBSs and other power users that I know from work. Hope you can make some good use of these programs. If you find a bug (another name for a surprise "feature") let me know. If you have ?s, leave me a message. Now that my toy.. (oops, I mean COMPUTER) is back on line, I'll be on the board more often. . Happy new year, everybody. . Dick Date: 01-05-89 (23:25) Number: 586 To: HERBERT STRANDBERG Refer#: 579 From: RON LAFON Read: YES Subj: ARTLINE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Herb. The problem with Artline and Ventura is with ALL printers other than PostScript. I can appreciate your problem with not wanting to change all the files from 87% gray to 100%. You might leave a message for John Grant to see when the fixes are going to be available... Date: 01-06-89 (10:58) Number: 595 To: RON BETZ Refer#: 555 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: HARDWARE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ron...a good person to talk to about large screen monitors is Bob Moody. He's tested almost everyone on the market to date and has gathered quite a bit of information about his experiences with all of them. You can leave a message here for Bob and call him at VPUG (408) 227-5068 (voice). Personally, I use the Moniterm Viking monitors. I have three --two landscape 19" models and one landscape 24" models). By far they are the fastest that I have tried before, although the screen resolution is not as high as a Sigma or Cornerstone unit. I don't know much about Mitsubishi monitors and Bob Moody has never received announcement about a driver for them. Give Bob a call for telephone numbers of Cornerstone, Moniterm, Ventek, Vermont Systems, Sigma Designs, DBM, and others which have Ventura compatible drivers. ...Gene Date: 01-07-89 (12:12) Number: 600 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: NONE From: HERBERT STRANDBERG Read: YES Subj: ARTLINE & VP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Do you have a patch or fix for the BRICK problem with Artline. I don't want to continue generating 87% grey areas so that they print black, and then having to go back and change them to 100% when I get the fix through normal channels. Herb Date: 01-07-89 (14:50) Number: 602 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: PAUL GLASSMAN Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: WORDPERFECT 5.0 INDEX Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have a book that is about 200 pages and is now written in Word Perfect 5.0. It has about 300 entries in the index. Is there a way to import this file into Ventura 2.0 and keep the index tags, or do I need to retag the whole book again to have Ventura produce the index? Is there perhaps a 3rd party program that will do this conversion? Any help would be appreciated Date: 01-08-89 (12:01) Number: 608 To: PAUL GLASSMAN Refer#: 602 From: HERBERT STRANDBERG Read: YES Subj: WORDPERFECT 5.0 INDEX Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I was hoping that there was a way to edit an Index entry in WP, but just shelled out to WP to try it and didn't have any luck. I will check with WP on the Compuserve forum and see if anyone has any ideas. Once you can edit an index entry, then you can copy/paste the info into a Ventura index entry (using a macro for ease of use). I will be out for a few days, but will check on this upon my return. Herb WordPerfect Instructor Date: 01-08-89 (15:17) Number: 609 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DONNA HARRINGTON Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VENTURA MEMORY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi, does anybody have the straight scoop on how much memory Ventura requires? I have periodic problems with Ventura hanging up and Xerox support always comes down to "it must be a memory conflict". They told me that Ventura needs at least 574k of ram available to run properly. And that having anything else in memory is "risky", this is a big problem for me as my memory is used as follows: When I load DOS 3.2 with 20 files and buffers I have 598,608 bytes left, then I load our Novell shell which takes 54,272 leaving 544,336, right here I am below the 574K that Xerox says I need.I also use the Lasermaster card to drive my HP series II printer, its software takes 46,736 leaving 497,600 available for Ventura. I can't get rid of the network as all of my data files are out on the network server. We did this because I have all of the technical documentation for our company in Ventura and have much more than the 32mb that DOS will allow on a local disk, also the network gets backed up everyday and I don't have to worry about it. The Lasermaster card lets me print Ventura documents in a reasonable amount of time and gives me the font selection I need for my work. The bottom line is, there isn't any way for me to eliminate anything from memory and still get my job done. I read that Version 2.0 and the professional extention to Ventura will address extended memory and thought that this would be the answer to this problem so I had the company purchase 2mb of 32 bit ram(not cheap) for my computer (an Acer 1100 80386 16mhz), and version 2.0 and the professional extention for Ventura. I spoke to Xerox tech support and to my dismay they said that the new version requires more of the 640k DOS memory than before and that if I had problems before they would only get worse with the new version. This is not good news. Someone suggested I buy 386MAX from Qualitas, this program would allow me to stuff the network shell and the Lasermaster software up into extended memory and give Ventura almost all of the 640K. Alas when we tried this 386MAX doesn't like Acer 1100's for some reason and consistantly locks up my computer. Qualitas tech support is working on this problem and I hope they can fix it. In the mean time does anybody have any suggestions? Is Ventura really incapable of living in the real world of network shells and printer cards? We used to run a disk cache but Xerox said they conflicted with Ventura also. I could sure use some advice. Donna Harrington Date: 01-08-89 (14:29) Number: 611 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VP 2.0 BUG! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hear is an interesting bug I found. I have a 386 PC with 2MB of memory which 640k of it is for DOS, 384K useless, and 1024K used by SMARTDERIVE. After loading DOS, MOUSE, UNET3 (network), FASTOPEN, NDE, ETC. I used the FMARK to mark the beginning of the free memory so if I needed to get rid of something that was loaded later, I could use RELEASE. I got my Version 2 upgrade and installed it, started it and got INTERNAL ERROR (0019) in a dialog box. The warning keep poping out 4 times and then everything worked fine. I called the support and after waiting 10-15 minutes a nice gentleman answered the phone and after a few try changing this and that in AUTOEXEC.BAT we decided that I did not have enough RAM left. So I went and bought QEMM-386 and installed it and all of a sudden I had 600K of free memory (instead of 501K) and 512K of SMARTDRIVE and 800K or so of EXPANDED memory and all my TSRs safely loaded in high memory (it is so nice not to be worry about where to put the network driver, mouse, etc.). I tried VP again and no luck, the same error. So I started deleting stuff from AUTOEXEC and interestingly enough, the culprit was FMARK. Changed FMARK to MARK (a difference of 2.3K per mark, but who cares! I now have 600K of free memory!) and everything started working like a champ. Date: 01-08-89 (14:47) Number: 612 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: YES Subj: ARABIC FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, Latest PC Magazine, Vol. 8 No. 2, had a review of a word processor called Universal Word which supports every languages in the world including Arabic. I called them for more info. and they said it does not support POSTSCRIPT yet. However it looked very interesting. One of the options in their menu is the direction that one wants the cursor to go, left to right or right to left. However, the price is very high. Almost $700 for the program and six languages. Date: 01-08-89 (20:48) Number: 615 To: HERBERT STRANDBERG Refer#: 600 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: ARTLINE & VP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Herb...Ventura sent John out of town until the 27th for training. If John Meyer sees the message, he may have an answer. I've heard from a reliable source that the problem has nothing to do with the Ventura Driver. It's more an incompatability problem between the version of GDOS that Ventura is using and the one Artline is using. No confirmation on this yet though. ...Gene Date: 01-08-89 (21:03) Number: 617 To: PAUL GLASSMAN Refer#: 602 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: TAG TEAM Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Paul...Try calling Sage Productions at 5677 Oberlin Drive, San Diego, CA 92121. Telephone (619) 455-7513. They make a product called TAG Team which automatically converts WordPerfect commands into Ventura Tags and vice versa. I don't know if it can handle the index problem, and can't check this out for you since our only copy was sent out for evaluation by a writer and it was not returned. Please find this message and contine the message thread if the product does what it is purported to do. Date: 01-08-89 (21:31) Number: 621 To: DONNA HARRINGTON Refer#: 609 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: VENTURA MEMORY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Donna...download the Ventura Software file "PERFORM2.ARC". John Meyer updated his earlier version of the file VP_PRFM.ARC to supply users with performance information about Ventura. VP 2.0 can handle 128K of EMS and the Professional Extension supports 32Mb. Installing a disk cache program on your system will significantly increase screen refresh time and screen font loading. Several users have indicated that they have had really good luch installing the program EEMRAM11.ARC on their system. EEMRAM fools DOS into thinking 732K of meory is available instead of the 640K. Ventura only knows about the 640K on your machine, but the additional memory can store your screen drivers, memory resident programs and although not recommended TSR programs. I've used the software myself to force older versions of Ventura to run on workstations connected to a LAN. I never had any problems of any sort. You might want to try it. John Meyer has also uploaded a file containing descriptions of the numeric error messages which could appear on screen if you have an installation error or similar conflict. The file is stored in the Library File Area in Conference 1. I can't remember the name off the top of my head. ...Gene Date: 01-08-89 (21:35) Number: 622 To: DONNA HARRINGTON Refer#: 609 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: VENTURA MEMORY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE One more thing Donna before I forget. The EEMRAM11.ARC program is stored on the Main Board. Enter J;M or J M or J,M from the main menu to join the main board. You need to go there to download the file. You can return to the Ventura Conference (conference #1) by entering J;1, J 1, or J,1 from the main board's menu. You can also enter J to see the conference menu. ...Gene Date: 01-08-89 (21:42) Number: 623 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 611 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: VP 2.0 BUG! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Morad...I would like to print your message in the magazine. We've had about 20 calls on that problem, especially with LaserMaster users who had older versions of their software. They were using the Mark and Release programs from Unicorn also. Let me know if this is OK. We'll print it in the Q&A section and give you the byline. Date: 01-08-89 (21:52) Number: 624 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 612 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: ARABIC FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The VUMAN company, owned by Cambridge University, offers a program called VUMAN Universal and a second program called VUMAN Scientific. Both offer LaserMaster and HP support and do not handle PostScript. Other printers supported are the JLaser, AST TurboLaser, Cordata, and compatables. Both programs have the name VUWRITER and according to the documentation, more versions exist. They also sell a product called the VUMAN-VenturaLink which allows you to transfer documents created with the word processor into Ventura. They clain to have fonts and direct support for almost all languages. You might want to drop them a letter. They have a distributer here in the states: Cooperative Office Systems & Services (COSS), 207 Holly Roard, Edgewater, Maryland 21037. Telephone 301-261-7570. The Scientific version of the word processor sells for $295.00 and the Link (hardware) sells for $45.00. ...Gene Date: 01-08-89 (21:59) Number: 625 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: 286 MEMORY FOR VPPROF Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am wondering if there are any ways to get the Professional Extension to run on my Everex System 1800 (286 AT) with 640K + 384 Extended Memory. I have tried using LIMSIM.SYS which takes about 60K of memory - leaving me with 522 max, (LIM.SYS) allows extended memory to simulate expanded memory). At this point the system just locks up, (which I expected). Date: 01-09-89 (12:13) Number: 628 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BOB MOODY Read: (N/A) Subj: VPUG VERSION 2.0 CLASS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE VPUG put on two 2.0 classes in November and December of last year, and they were so sucessful that we thought we would do it again. The class outline is available by calling (408) 227-5030. The cost is $95.00 and will get you a one day class on Version 2.0 installation problem solving, updates on the manual (some of the things in the new manuals are incorrect), a complete rundown on the new package PLUS the Professional Extension, and some good conversation in general about Ventura. We also provide a disk with a few style sheets developed with 2.0. The class will be held at the Hewlett Packard facility in Cupertino California on JANUARY 21, 1989, from 9:00 to 5:00, thats a Saturday. If you are interested give us a call! Date: 01-09-89 (14:08) Number: 629 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 623 From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: YES Subj: VP 2.0 BUG! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sure. No problem! Date: 01-09-89 (14:17) Number: 630 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: YES Subj: NEW FORMAT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, Sorry for putting the message in the wrong area. Tell you the truth this new format realy confused me! The reason was mostly that I call another board that uses the same software as this board, the one in Atlanta, but they also allow you to configure the areas that you want to look at. That way I can read all the messages in main and then it will (J)ump to the next and next and next, etc. So I started readind the mail in main and did not relize about other areas. I used the OPEN 3 and selected (C)onfig which I thing basicaly will do the same thing but it says that I have to be a registered user of realy door. Well I did it again! I just noticed that again I am entring a message in the wrong area. I think this belongs to main area. Sorry again. Date: 01-09-89 (16:03) Number: 632 To: DONNA HARRINGTON Refer#: 609 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: VENTURA MEMORY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Donna: Join the crowd of Ventura users who scratch out heads over memory requirements. I'm supposed to be the "authority", but I don't know of too many absolute rules here -- except that more memory is better... how's that for advice? While I think I could help you, it would probably take more time than a note on a bulletin board. Perhaps you might like to call me sometime (maybe your company would hire me to help -- end of pitch): 415-962-9270. Briefly, you CAN run Ventura with under 500k, provided that several other conditions are met, like reallocation of graphics memory, the proper screen driver, presence of high memory, and possibly the Professional Extension. Your particular dilemna is not uncommon or unusually extreme, and I am quite sure there is a solution. Rick Altman Date: 01-09-89 (17:49) Number: 634 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: SCREEN CAPTURE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am trying to locate a screen capture program for use while in Ventura that works with my Genius2 dual page monitor. I believe they are available since some of the screen shots in the Ventura Reference Manual (see pp 5-124, notice the pop-up menu is a square box and not two inverted arrows), show them. Date: 01-10-89 (09:12) Number: 636 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DAVID GELLER Read: (N/A) Subj: VENTURA ON COMPUSERVE! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Just learned that Xerox will be sponsoring a Ventura Publisher forum on Compuserve in the near future. No date announced and this has not be announced anywhere else. You heard on this BBS first! My guess is that they will also be supporting their new Cricket acquisition as well. CIS expects it to be one of the most popular forums. Date: 01-10-89 (09:29) Number: 637 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DAVID GELLER Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: 386 MEMORY MANAGERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have found Qualitas' 386-to-the-MAX to be an excellent program and has allowed me to make great use of VP2.0-PRO. They now have 386LOAD which lets you load device drivers, TSR's, etc. into HIGH DOS memory. They can be reached at (301) 469-8848. They won a technical merit award from PC Magazine for their work. You might also explore Quarterdeck's memory products, but I prefer 386-to-the-MAX. Date: 01-10-89 (14:38) Number: 639 To: DAVID GELLER Refer#: 637 From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: NO Subj: 386 MEMORY MANAGERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dave, I just installed Quarterdeck's QEMM-386 and it does both memory mgmnt. and loading TSRs and drivers into high memory (version 4.2) and of course it can change you extended memory into expanded (ems 4.0 or eems 3.2) and best of all, you get all this for $40. Date: 01-10-89 (15:45) Number: 640 To: DONNA HARRINGTON Refer#: NONE From: DENIS LATKOWSKI Read: YES Subj: VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sorry you're having problems with 386MAX; their newest version is 4.02 and it works like a charm on my machine. They also have a new program called 386LOAD which would load your network driver or other .SYS files into high memory, thus clearing DOS memory. If you're using the latest LaserMaster software (4.0), you don't have to pre-load anything before using Ventura. Just call up VP like normal, and when it comes time to print, make sure the Capcard is selected and everything shuld work from then on. Lasermaster hopes that this will work for all and on my system it does. I never have to run anything before using Ventura or Artline and the Capcard. Try not preloading and see if it works; if it does, that would certainly clear up some memory for you. Hope this helps some. (p.s. registered users of the Capcard can log onto their bbs and get the latest version of software) Date: 01-10-89 (17:42) Number: 641 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 625 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: 286 MEMORY FOR VPPROF Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rodney...we've got a couple of those running the Professional Extension. Your right...the expanded memory managers which force Extended Memory to emulate Expanded memory tend to hog too much of the 640K Ventura wants so much. However, you may be able to use the 312K of extended memory as a cache to speed Ventura up. I've managed to do it on two clone machines, but have never tried it on one of our Everex machines. Your best bet is to find a low priced expanded memory card such as the Everex Ram 3000 ($90.00 on the street) and put 128K in it. You'll need 120 nano second chips to do this effectively. Possibly, you might have an unused printer controller card or another card which has 256kb memory chips on it to use until memory prices drop down to a reasonable point. To my knowledge, no one makes a EMS manager which occupies little of the 640kb memory. ...Gene Date: 01-10-89 (18:03) Number: 643 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 630 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: NEW FORMAT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The other board may be used some enhancement software I'm not aware of. Ask next time you log onto the other system. I'll try to get a copy. It could be I'm also missing something in the 1200 pages of documentation that I have for this thing. No sweat about messages like this. I do want to keep the Ventura specific messages in the Ventura Conference. There will be exceptions to this rule once the other conferences are opened. All I need right now are moderators to manage them. Date: 01-10-89 (18:17) Number: 646 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 634 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: SCREEN CAPTURE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE If I'm not mistaken, Ventura has their own screen capture program. They use it internally or at least they used to. You might want to try giving Advanced Vision Research a call. They seem to have screen grabbers for all the large monitors. You might also give the Genius folks a call. They should know about this for sure. AVR is in San Jose, CA. Call information for the number. You can also try calling SymSoft, Inc. in Los Altos, CA. They recently made changes to HotShot Grab which made it more adaptable to large screen monitors. Date: 01-10-89 (19:58) Number: 650 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: EMM MANAGERS AND WINDOWS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am currently using LIM386.SYS, placed in my config.sys file, to manage my extended memory as expanded. I then place SMARTDRV.SYS /A in the next line to set up part of that memory as cache. When I reboot, somehow my root directory, and all of my subdirectories, on Drive C, disappears. I have to reboot from floppy, and change the config.sys to remove these entries. Basically, I want to know how to set up my system properly so that I can run the Professional Extension under windows using my extended memory as expanded, AND still be able to cache to part of that memory. I have a Micronics 20MHZ 386, Genius2 Dual Page Display, and 1024 extended memory (total 2MB), Windos v. 2.03. Also Should I run VPPROF from a .PIF file that includes a batch file, or simply fill in the correct program information such as DRVRMRGR.EXE in program parameters, startup options that has the VPPROF %1 etc.? Date: 01-10-89 (23:21) Number: 652 To: JOHN POWELL Refer#: 574 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: COLOR OUTPUT SUPPORT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sorry, I don't know of any other color printers other than the QMS Colorscript printer which is an expensive ($20,000) PostScript color printer which VP 2.0 can drive. VP 1.1 and 2.0 can of course drive the 4020 from Xerox, and this driver is included with the product. Date: 01-10-89 (23:27) Number: 653 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 581 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: VENTURA BUGS? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Multiple copies of the same image will all use the same screen type. .. 2. You are correct. Lines thicker than 0.5 inch do not display on the screen. This is a limitation of the screen drivers. .. 3. The PIC file problem is something I am not aware of. Does it only happen with PIC files? I have done a lot of cutting and pasting of the type you describe and haven't had any problems. .. 4. Different screen drivers use different characters for the pop-up menu symbol. Date: 01-10-89 (23:31) Number: 654 To: DONNA HARRINGTON Refer#: 609 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: VENTURA MEMORY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE To anyone who wants to know more about Ventura Publisher memory requirements, I have uploaded a series of small articles on the subject. VPAPP_2.ARC provides a table of the amount of memory which must be available prior to running Ventura Publisher for various different screen driver, EMS/non-EMS, HIMEM.SYS/non-HIMEM.SYS configurations. The amount of memory is measured by the DOS CHKDSK command. For instance, if you are running the Professional Extension with a two-color EGA screen driver and DOS 3.2 with no EMS memory and no HIMEM.SYS driver, this document will tell you the minimum amount of memory which CHKDSK can report is available and yet still let VP run. .. VPAPP_3.ARC provides actual examples of CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files which will configure your computer correctly. .. Finally, the performance enhancement file I uploaded a month ago provides lots of memory and performance enhancement tips. Date: 01-11-89 (02:32) Number: 655 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GARY KEITHLINE Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: WHICH LASER TO BUY.. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE ANY INPUT FROM ALL OF YOU EXPERIENCED USERS. WHICH LASER IS THE BEST BUY? FROM A BUYERS VIEWPOINT LASERMASTER APPEARS TO DO IT ALL WITH A HP LASERJET. IS THIS MY IMMAGINATION OR SHOULD I LOOK FURTHER INTO A PURE POSTCRIPT PRINTER. IS 600 DPI WORTH WAITING FOR AND HOW LONG IS THE WAITING... ANY INPUT WILL BE APPRECIATED? Date: 01-11-89 (08:34) Number: 656 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GIRARD HEATH Read: (N/A) Subj: WHY DON'T I GET ALL PAGE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have a document that I have been working on for some time using 1.1 patch 2, and there are some cases when not all the page numbers display. This only happens for one or two pages in a chapter and it seems to be only right hand pages. Has anyone had this happen to you and, if so, how can I get around it? Or, is it a bug? Call me at (408) 243-0118 or leave a message on the bulletin board. Thanks in advance. Date: 01-11-89 (09:39) Number: 657 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 643 From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: NO Subj: NEW FORMAT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, The other board uses a different door than RealyDoor that you have. The problem that I have with the current format is that it does not brings you from one conf. to the next based on a configuration. the C option of door 3 says that this option is only available to the registered users of realy door. Does it mean that I have to send them a registration fee and then they will tell you to let me use C option on your board?! The name of the door on the other system is ProDoor and it is version 2.83 It comes from Tool Shop BBS (620) 264-3969 / (602) 279-2673. Of course I understand the amount of work that goes into setting up a board and I am not trying to tell you how to run your system. Just a suggestion. As I mentioned before, the ProDoor has the config. and ARCMail that archives all the unseen mail in all confs. etc. Again it is up to you. Thanks for the nice system and all the help. Date: 01-11-89 (09:43) Number: 658 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: (N/A) Subj: INTERNAL ERR 0019 AGAIN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE In addition to FMARK that causes INT ERR 0019, I just found out that ANSI.COM from PC Magazine, Vol. 8 No. 2, also causes the same error as soon as you start VP. Date: 01-12-89 (00:23) Number: 661 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 650 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: EMM MANAGERS AND WINDOWS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rodney: I have had my own set of problems trying to run Ventura under Windows. I have concluded (I think) that it is better to fill in the correct and specific DRVRMRGR info in the PIF file rather than just call the batch file. My problem is a never-ceasing TOO MANY FILES OPEN message, regardless of how many files I set in CONFIG. Have you had any similar experiences? Rick Altman Date: 01-12-89 (00:28) Number: 662 To: GARY KEITHLINE Refer#: 655 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: WHICH LASER TO BUY.. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gary: Which laser printer to buy, in 100 words or less... The HP and LaserMaster is certainly a fast and able solution UNLESS you need portability to other laser printers or to type- setting devices. Then a PostScript printer will better serve you. If you decide to go that route, my favorite is the QMS PS-810. This opinion is also shared by a majority of the magazines that have reviewed PS printers. Seventy-seven words...not bad. Rick Altman Date: 01-12-89 (15:40) Number: 666 To: GARY KEITHLINE Refer#: 655 From: DENIS LATKOWSKI Read: YES Subj: WHICH LASER TO BUY.. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I can heartily recommend the LaserMaster CapCard. Have been using the LC2 with 35 fonts and some additional ones I've added for about four months now and have been thorought impressed. The card works flawlessly with the HP II and Ventura, Artline, and Windows applications. Seldom do I have to wait longer than 45 seconds, even for the most complicated page. I've been told the newer LC6 is even faster. The only Postscript experience I've had is using the LMPAGE interpreter that works with the Capcard. Some simple "programs" take forever to print (I'm talking upwards to twenty minutes). The results are impressive certainly, but I imagine that there will be programs available that will cut that time down without using a Postscript printer. With LMPAGE (which will NOT print all Postscript or EPS files), I can use WordPerfect with its Apple Laserwrite printer definition and saving to a Postscript file to write a quick or long letter, report, etc., and then print it using LMPAGE. I can use Ventura to print some EPS files, but I'm not able to size the picture. Apparently, a drawing program like Illustrator is needed for sizing. If you write to Lasermaster or call them, they'll be happy to send you literature and specs. Hope some of this is helpful. Date: 01-12-89 (20:32) Number: 667 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN LYNCH Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: FULL PAGE 19 INCH MONITOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am about to take the plunge, that is I am gripped by buying fever. Thats right I'm going to spend over 1 thousand dollars on a moniter and I need some help from those of you who have made this step. I have a publishing business and although some grahics will creep into our flyers and brochures, the bulk of our need is for full page text work. I have found myself lost while scrolling through large books! To wit, what matter gray scales and are the nuances of resolution discernable? Square pixel, 0.31mm, and does anyone have any brand names to reccomend? I have found these high price items don't seem to get enough press to make an informed comparison. Thanks for your help. Sincerely, John Lynch, aka Launch Press Date: 01-12-89 (21:07) Number: 668 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: SVEN PRETORIOUS Read: (N/A) Subj: LASER PRINTERS? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE What do YOU think of the AST TurboLaser printer? Are they good? Or bad? Have specific problems? I would appreciate any information you might have on them. Thanks, Sven P. Date: 01-13-89 (00:11) Number: 670 To: JOHN LYNCH Refer#: 667 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: FULL PAGE 19 INCH MONITOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John: I find it ironic that when faced with a purchasing decision in upwards of $2,000 of hardware, one of the very most important aspects is the software that is bundled with it. My choice is the Cornerstone Dual Page because it has the cleanest screen fonts around, including all 11 PostScript typefaces. The Cornerstone is not as fast as others that have lower-grade screen fonts (like the Viking Moniterm or the Sigma LaserView) and it has "only" a Hercules emulation (some have EGA emulation; others have none). I just think it is the best-looking display, and well- supported, if not particularly well-promoted. Rick Altman Date: 01-13-89 (00:25) Number: 671 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: PHILIP BURTON Read: NO Subj: MISSING FILES ??? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I tried to download some files which were listed in the directories, but were not found!?! vp_app2.arc and vp_app3.arc are some examples. Is this a problem with the transition to the new BBS software? Date: 01-13-89 (00:58) Number: 673 To: ALL Refer#: 655 From: GARY KEITHLINE Read: (N/A) Subj: ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Is this Mac program out their for the IBM? Appreciate those of you who answered my laser buy question. What other Mac programs are going to go to the MS-DOS world? What can I expect to pay, and what kind of memory requirements are there for something like Illustrator??? Date: 01-13-89 (10:32) Number: 674 To: JOHN LYNCH Refer#: 667 From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: YES Subj: FULL PAGE 19 INCH MONITOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John, I do not have a full page monitor yet, but was thinking about it while back. One brand that I found good and not expensive is Design View. There was a short review of it in PC Magazine a few issues back. Their phone # is 215-639-9567. Date: 01-13-89 (18:48) Number: 676 To: RICK ALTMAN Refer#: NONE From: JOHN LYNCH Read: YES Subj: 19 INCH FULL PAGE MONITOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks a lot for your input. Curiously enough the Cornerstone 19 inch monitor with four grey scales is my current choice. I've called the manufacturer and spoken with the tech people and they are available and friendly. I have found that teh quality of tech support cannot be underrated in decideing on hardware. Several months ago I wrote you regarding macros in word perfect and you ®&Ywrote back right away answering my questions. I take this opportunity to say thanks again. Date: 01-13-89 (18:53) Number: 677 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: NONE From: JOHN LYNCH Read: YES Subj: 19 INCH FULL PAGE MONITOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for your note about the Design View monitor. I'll be going through my back issues of PC Magazine and calling the vendor. When I get my monitor I'll let you know what kind and how it performs although I'm sure that no more scrolling will make any choice the right one. Good Luck! Date: 01-13-89 (19:09) Number: 678 To: JOHN LYNCH Refer#: 667 From: TODD LEONARD Read: YES Subj: FULL PAGE 19 INCH MONITOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'm not familiar with "full" page monitors in the strictest sense, but I use an Amdek 1280 "nearly full" (that's my phrase) page monitor. I've found that when I use the .PSF screen fonts that are available from the magazine, I can get about 6.5 or 7 vertical inches (of the page) on the screen in normal mode. This is without rulers. Thus, depending on the size of the top and bottom margins you are using, you have a decent chance of seeing all the text at once. Granted, when you wish to design documents that run a bit taller than usual, or when you want to see the "grand picture", whitespace and all, you have to make a sacrifice. However, the low price (I believe we got it for less than $700) is a pretty decent comfort. Date: 01-14-89 (03:32) Number: 679 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: JOHN RICHARDSON Read: YES Subj: VP FOR THE MAC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have been reading in the Macintosh press that Ventura Publisher is just about to be released for the Macintosh. Could you comment on that? If so, will the Mac version be equivalent to VP v2.0 or even more enhanced? I'd appreciate any information that you feel at liberty to give. John Date: 01-14-89 (03:35) Number: 680 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: JOHN RICHARDSON Read: YES Subj: VENTURA PROFESSIONAL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Your last message to me in early December was to see an article in Ventura Professional for December. I realize that I live in the sticks but this is ridiculous. I still haven't received the December issue. Can you give me any help with this? John P. Richardson, Waynesville NC Date: 01-15-89 (18:33) Number: 684 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 650 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: EMM MANAGERS AND WINDOWS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rodney...if you have not done so already, download the files PERFORM2.ARC, APPL_2.ARC, and APPL_3.ARC. All three files were uploaded by John Meyer at Ventura Software. PERFORM2.ARC contains performce information for correctly setting up Ventura Publisher to use Expanded Memory. APPL_2.ARC contains additional information with specific focus on the use of Expanded Memory. APPL_3.ARC gives samples of AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files for properly configuring Ventura for EMS. Please note that quite a few users have been having problems setting Ventura up so that it would recognize EMS. For 386 machines, the general recommendation of power users so far has been to use either Desqview's QEMM or 386totheMAX. I myself have had several EMS managers refuse to operate with Ventura (i.e. Ventura never recognizes the memory). I have also had very good look using the EMM.SYS LIM 4.0 driver supplied with Everex memory cards. I also use MicroSoft's SMARTDRV.SYS for disk caching on some machines and Lighting on others. I'm happy with the operation of both of these caches. Other users may know about caches which also work. If you continue to have a problem, leave me a message at 408-227-5030 and I'll get back to you as soon as I can. In an earlier message, you were attempting to run Ventura on an Everex 1800 with the 312K of extended memory available on the system. You were attempting to convert Extended to EMS. I've setup a system here with the same machine and would like to work with you on developing a solution for running Ventura with emulated EMS. I've been given several EMS managers which are purported to work, but I haven't had the chance to use them yet. ...Gene Date: 01-15-89 (18:40) Number: 686 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 652 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: COLOR OUTPUT SUPPORT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John...Freedom of Press has a color version coming soon which will support more printers using their PostScript emulator. It's a bit slow, but it can get the job done. I've also heard that a vendor in the LA area has built a RIP for the OEM Mitsubishi engine used on the QMS printer. I have no specific details yet and am working on trying to get more information. I've heard that they are using a third party company to build Windows and Ventura drivers for the machine. I'll have more information in about a week when my contact returns from vacation. ...Gene Date: 01-15-89 (22:50) Number: 688 To: JOHN LYNCH Refer#: 676 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: 19 INCH FULL PAGE MONITOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John: I answered a question about WordPerfect? I?? Did I bullshit through the answer or did it actually contain some substance...? Anyway, glad to help -- and good luck with your high-resolution adventures. rick. Date: 01-16-89 (09:40) Number: 690 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 684 From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: EMM MANAGERS AND WINDOWS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the information on EMM MANAGERS. I would be glad to work on these Managers with you, just let me know what I need to do. Date: 01-16-89 (19:11) Number: 692 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VENTURA OPERATORS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am looking for Ventura Operators in the San Francisco/Bay Area to serve my expanding client base. If you like to work at home, are modem equipped, are using version 2.0, AND the Professional Extension, please leave me a message that includes your address and I will send you further information in the mail. Date: 01-16-89 (22:54) Number: 694 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: STEVE GARMAN Read: YES Subj: MAGAZINE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Please send me a copy of your VP magazine and information about the users group. I am a first time user and am on this board for the first time also. Steve Garman, 7701 N. Broadway A-6, Oklahoma City, OK 73116. Thanks for your help. Am also looking for a good tutorial on VP 2.0 or even a bad one. It's just a little cryptic to me at the moment and I'm a 5 year computer user dating back to CPM days, but I understand from others that the learning curve is well worth it so I'm trying to take the plunge. Any help toward tutoring would be appreciated. Date: 01-17-89 (05:01) Number: 695 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BILL LAMP'L Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: SCREEN FONTS, PRINT DRIVR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Regarding v2.0: even though I'm using VGA graphics, Ventura's letter "s" looks like a shaded figure 8. I didn't have this problem with 1.1; am I missing something? Also, the literature says 2.0 can be installed for NEC P-series printers; which printer on the list should I pick for my P5-XL, as I don't see NEC on the list. Thank you. Date: 01-17-89 (08:02) Number: 696 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: STEVE BECKWITT Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: POTENTIAL V 2.0 BUG Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE When editing an entry in a footnote frame it seems that one can't delete highlighted text with the "Edit-Cut Text" menu option. The keyboard "Del" key works fine. Can anyone else confirm this bug? Date: 01-17-89 (14:37) Number: 698 To: JOHN RICHARDSON Refer#: 680 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: VENTURA PROFESSIONAL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hmmmm!...I called over to VPUG and they indicate that December was shipped and you should have received it a long time ago. Let me know if you haven't got a copy yet. I'll send you one myself. ...Gene Date: 01-17-89 (14:49) Number: 699 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 690 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: EMM MANAGERS AND WINDOWS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rodney...I've got a little looking around to do. I have the letters the vendors sent to VPUG, but not the packages. Someone usually stores them away over at the VPUG office. I'll try to get one or two to you for testing and will test others here. Remind me in a week if you haven't got them in the mail yet. One user on the LASERPUB echo indicated that a product called LANTHANA will work. I'll have to see if we have a copy and send it off to you in the mail. ...Gene Date: 01-17-89 (15:33) Number: 702 To: STEVE GARMAN Refer#: 694 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: MAGAZINE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Steve...Christina Martinelli from VPUG mailed a copy of the magazine along with an invoice to you today. Date: 01-15-89 (20:21) Number: 707 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: AARON T. Read: (N/A) Subj: VENTURA AND HP DESKJET Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Wondering if anyone knows about a patch or driver for ventura (don't know if it's available in V2) to run on an HP Deskjet. I really hate to buy the Epson emullation cartridge. thanks -a Date: 01-16-89 (10:20) Number: 708 To: AARON T. Refer#: NONE From: RICK ALTMAN Read: NO Subj: VENTURA AND HP DESKJET Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Aaron: Here is a message that John Meyer left here a couple of weeks back: While at Comdex, I saw a program from Atech software which lets Ventura Publisher drive virtually any printer, including the DeskJet. Unlike another solution which I have seen which requires translating a PostScript file and takes 15-20 minutes, this drives the DeskJet with a 300 dpi bit map and takes about 4 minutes per page. If anyone is interested in this product (which sells for $195), they should contact Atech Software, 629 S. Rancho Santa Fe Road, San Marcos, CA 92069, (619) 438-6883. I'm not endorsing the product, since I don't own a DeskJet and haven't tried it, but I know a lot of people are interested in this printer so I thought I'd pass this along. Incedentally, the reason Ventura Software doesn't include a driver with Ventura Publisher is that the DeskJet only comes with 128K of memory which is not enough to download any driver, which otherwise would work. Therefore, a whole new driver would be required, similar to the the one that Atech has written. We felt the performance of this type of driver was not in keeping with the performance of Ventura Publisher, since the DeskJet can print faster than 4 minutes per page. However, given the limited memory in a standard DeskJet, the type of driver which Atech has written is the only approach which makes sense, and they appear to have done a good job implementing it, based on watching their driver print the SCOOP chapter at Comdex. Hope this helps. Rick Altman Date: 01-16-89 (14:17) Number: 709 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BOB COE Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: MOUSE SOFT LOAD PROBLEM Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE When loading vpprof using Logitek His-res mouse VP will load but mouse will not work and must ctl-alt-del to exit and retry. Must retry several times before mouse will work! Solution? Only one copy of mouse is loaded and no copies exist in root dir. Date: 01-17-89 (18:06) Number: 710 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 692 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: VENTURA OPERATORS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rodney: Are you looking for people who can serve as consultants or are you looking for people to whom you can serve as consultants. If it is the former, then I am interested in speaking with you. Perhaps 75% of my consulting practice is desktop publishing and over half of that is over-the-phone Ventura assistance. Call me at (415) 962-9270 if you would like to talk further. I have good credentials. Rick Altman Date: 01-17-89 (18:11) Number: 711 To: STEVE GARMAN Refer#: 694 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: NO Subj: MAGAZINE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Steve: Saw your message to Gene, the Sysop -- welcome! I produce and sell a tutorial for Ventura 2.0, complete with self-paced, relevant exercises. It is time and field- tested and is available now. It sells for $35, including diskette (add $2.50 for postage). You could call me at (415) 962-9270 if you wanted more info, or a list of references of students who have used the workbook. Or you could just send a check to LETTER PERFECT for $37.50: 2040 W. Middlefield, No. 5 Mountain View, CA 94043 I hope Gene doesn't get mad at me for such blatant promotion... Welcome to the User Forum, Steve. Rick Altman Date: 01-17-89 (19:16) Number: 712 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: FRANK WANCHO Read: (N/A) Subj: HOT PRODUCTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE First, to those with 286-based machines with only extended (not expanded ) memory: we expect to shortly receive the latest version of HIMEM.SYS directly from inside Microsoft, complete with test programs, samples, and sources. I will upload it as soon as we receive it. This one little device driver recovered about 60K of low memory and VPPROF loads just fine with no need of an /A= or /F= add-on. . The hot product is Pizazz Plus, a screen capture program and then some. This solved all my problems. It writes several formats, including its own portable format, Pub. PB .PCX, VP .PCX, TIFF, etc. It retails for $149, but CompuAd carries it for $67 (and worth every penny!). CompuAd doesn't always have THE best prices, but this and Insight Development's Laser Control (retail $150) at $87 are the best prices I've seen. . --Frank Date: 01-17-89 (20:24) Number: 714 To: RICK ALTMAN Refer#: 710 From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: VENTURA OPERATORS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rick, I am looking for Ventura Operators that I can assign various projects to that can be done at home. Some assignments may involve working at a client site. I will call you this week. Date: 01-17-89 (20:31) Number: 716 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 699 From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: EMM MANAGERS AND WINDOWS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the follow up. My address is EIP Associates, 150 Spear Suite 1500, S.F. CA 94105 Date: 01-17-89 (20:41) Number: 717 To: BOB COE Refer#: 709 From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: MOUSE SOFT LOAD PROBLEM Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I use a logitech Hi-Res Bus Mouse with no problem. Are you attempting to run VP AFTER running Windows by any chance? If so this may be the problem, especially if you are using a serial mouse (Windows does NOT reset the serial port after you exit. Date: 01-18-89 (06:04) Number: 722 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ROGER FIRTH Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: PROBLEM WITH ALT/NNN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Using VPProf on a Wyse 2112, I have a problem with using ALT/nnn to access the extended character set. Some characters (eg ALT/168, ALT/175) work, others (eg ALT/169, ALT/176) generate only a question mark. The ones that work are those where the native IBM character isÑ the same as the VP International character (eg ALT/175 is a right double chevron in both); the ones that don't are those where the IBM chaacter differs from the VP. It looks as though some mapping table is wrong, but whose table, and where? At the DOS level, all of the ALT/nnn keys work as expected - ALT/176 for instance gives a grey block. The software works correctly when installed on an Olivetti M24 (= AT&T 6300). ANy suggestions most gratefully received. Roger Date: 01-18-89 (08:20) Number: 723 To: ROGER FIRTH Refer#: NONE From: BOB COE Read: YES Subj: ALTNNN ON WYSE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Problems I have encountered with alt144 appear to be related to the filter in vpprof loading ascii characters from wordperfect rel 5.0. Work around given to me by Xerox was to save as rel 4.2. Other altnnn problems appear to be related. Let me know what you learn. Thanks. Date: 01-18-89 (08:21) Number: 724 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: NONE From: BOB COE Read: YES Subj: MOUSE SOFT LOAD Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am not using windows. Xerox just told me problem may be a conflict in interrupts between mouse and monitor. Am attempting to resolve. Date: 01-18-89 (08:27) Number: 725 To: BOB MOODY Refer#: NONE From: BOB COE Read: NO Subj: MOUSE AND DEGREE SYMBOL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Had call back from XEROX - mouse soft load problem may be conflict in interupts between mouse and monitor. Degree symbol is a problem with text load filter in VP not handling ascii characcters above nnn. Solution to save as WordPerfect Rel 4.2 not 5.0! Also suggested to work around poor memory management to use smartdrive.sys driver from windows or highmem.sys or qemm.sys. Do you have any experience with these? Also are you familiar with Golden Bow VTSR software? Date: 01-18-89 (14:41) Number: 726 To: JOHN FINLAYSON Refer#: 528 From: JOHN FINLAYSON Read: NO Subj: WP 5.0 LOAD/SAVE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ron, I've been using your suggested workaround for getting ASCII 128+ characters into VP 2.0 from WP 5.0. VP does indeed read these correctly. The method you described for recovering a WordPerfect file that VP has "corrupted" works, but I'm not about to recommend it to the technophobes in our office. Instead, I've written a little COM file that converts the codes of those characters from the 4.2 (E1xxE1) to the Ventura bracket codes (). I'll upload it (FIXWP50.ARC) with brief docs. Date: 01-18-89 (14:49) Number: 727 To: JOHN RICHARDSON Refer#: 679 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: VP FOR THE MAC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Sorry, no comment on the Macintosh rumors. I've seen quite a few of them lately. I certainly wouldn't get my hopes up. These rumors have been around for over a year now, including a front page story in MacWorld last August which made it sound as though the product was already finished. Date: 01-18-89 (18:12) Number: 730 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 654 From: DONNA HARRINGTON Read: YES Subj: VENTURA MEMORY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi John, Thanks, I will download the files and take a look at them. I'll try anything right now as we purchased Ver 2.0 and the professional extention and haven't been able to get them up yet. Donna Harrington Date: 01-18-89 (18:15) Number: 731 To: DENIS LATKOWSKI Refer#: 640 From: DONNA HARRINGTON Read: YES Subj: VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Denis, I have ordered 386LOAD and Qualitas thinks it might help. I just downloaded the new vp20.arc file from LaserMaster and will give it a try. I sure would like to get Ventura 2.0 up. Donna Harrington Date: 01-18-89 (18:21) Number: 733 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 622 From: DONNA HARRINGTON Read: YES Subj: VENTURA MEMORY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hi Gene, Thanks for the tips, I'll download those files and see what I come up with. It sure is fun paying people like Xerox for stuff and then spending hours trying to figure out how to get it to work. Maybe we should have stuck with Interleaf. Just kidding. Donna Harrington Date: 01-19-89 (04:36) Number: 734 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 698 From: JOHN RICHARDSON Read: YES Subj: VENTURA PROFESSIONAL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene: I still haven't gotten the December issue of Ventura Professional. It probably got lost in the Christmas rush (or with the rash of mail dumping). I would appreciate it if you could send me a replacement copy. My address is: John Richardson, 47 Calhoun Rd., Waynesville, NC 28786 Date: 01-19-89 (10:33) Number: 737 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: LENNY BAILES Read: YES Subj: VP SCREEN FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hmm. I'm a little unclear about the necessity for having to rename the screen fonts to the .PSF extension. What I do is rename them to .CGA or .EGA depending on screen resolution, and they show up properly when the font is selected from the Postscript width table. (It may not be well known that these same fonts can also be renamed to .EPS or .B30 and used by Epson or HPLJ printers (though the point sizes won't match -- they'll be about one-half their nominal point size when printed on the Epson)). These screen fonts appear to be in the standard GEM screenfont format, not really related to Postscript at all, since each point size requires a separate font file. I've still never managed to get to the ABFtoFNT utility to work with any real postscript printer fonts to generate screen fonts, though the HPLtoFNT utility _will_ produce useable screen fonts from Laserjet soft fonts (.SFP). Date: 01-19-89 (10:37) Number: 738 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: LENNY BAILES Read: YES Subj: SCREEN FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Oh, I see you have some new Adobe fonts online. My last message was referring to the screen fonts listed under particular typeface name, like Korinna, Avant Garde, etc ... I haven't looked at the Adobe Arc files. Date: 01-19-89 (11:14) Number: 739 To: GARY KEITHLINE Refer#: 655 From: ROB PANNONI Read: YES Subj: WHICH LASER TO BUY.. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gary, The LaserMaster is a good product. If you are concerned about Postscript compatibility, look into the RIPS Postscript-clone card. It is marketed by several companies. The version I am most familiar with is sold by Princetion Publishing Labs. This product consists of a card that connects to a series II printer, like the LaserMaster. Because it is Postscript compatible, however, you don't need a program-specific driver to use it. The magazine reviews I have read show the RIPS card to be up to 30 times as fast as the Laserwriter (the card uses the new Weitek RISC processor). I will purchasing a copy of this card in the near future for evaluation purposes. Perhaps, I can even write up my experiences with it in the form of a hardware review for the BBS or the magazine. I don't have a phone number for PPL handy but I will look for it and leave another message on the board. --Rob Pannoni Date: 01-19-89 (13:41) Number: 741 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: BYRON CANFIELD Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Found how to use RELAY to extract messages but see no way to acces the resulting file. Any clues? /×\ Ç׶ Ç×/ÒÒÒ\ º/ººÐºº\ · /ºººÒººº\ ÇÄ·ÖÄ·ÒÄ·ÒÄ· ³ººººÐк º ºÖĶº º º ÀÐÐÐÐÄĽ ÓĽÓÄÐÐ Ð Ó B Y R O N C A N F I E L D Date: 01-19-89 (15:15) Number: 742 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: KEN RUBMAN Read: YES Subj: VP 20 QUESTIONS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE DEAR JOHN, LOVE 2.0 BUT LETME ASK SOME QUESTIONS PLEASE I DON'T LIKE THAT WHEN YOU TYPE IN A CHAPTER IT AUTOMATICALLY PUT THE TEXT FILE IN TYPESET- CAN YOU FIX IT SO IT PUTS IT IN THE WORDPROCESSING DIRECTORY. 2>I ALSO DON'T LIKE THE AUTOMATICALLY NAMING OF A CHAPTER BASED ON THE WORD PROCESSING FILE BEING LOADED IN 3>ALSO NOTICE THAT AT CERTAIN OCCASSIONS THE TEXT FILE IS AUTOMATICAALY CHANGED i RUN THEVPUG ON LONG ISLAND AND A TYPESET BUSINESS AND THESE PROBLEM PLAY HAVOC ON FILE MANAGEMENT I UNDERSTAND THE PURPOSE AND FOR NOVICES ITS PROBABLY WONDERFUL-- BUT FOR ME ITS TROUBLE. ALSO WHAT IS DIS. HYPHEN-2 I SEEM TO GET THIS ONCEIN A WHILE IN THE EMPTY BOX ABOVE THE PG NUMBER WHEN IM IN TEXT MODE...I'LL DELETER A RETURN AND ALL HELL BRREAKS LOOSE. SEEMS TO HAPPEN AROUND TABS... I'LL BE TRYING TO GET CURSOR AT CERTAIN POINT I'LL CLICK DOWN THE CURSOR WILL GO SOMEWHERE ELSE OFF THE SCREEN AND DIS. HYPHEN2 WILL APPEAR IN THE TEXT BOX. WHEN I PRINT A PUB 50-100PP IT ALWAYS FREEZES DURING PRINTING ALWAYS AFTER A CHAPTER IS COMPLETED. SOMETIMES IT WILL DEVELOP A LITTLE BOX INSIDE THE PRINT BOX SOMETIME THE ENTIRE SCREEN GOES CRAZY. BUT NOW THAT I HAVE SAID ALL THIS (MY EQUIPMENT=VP20 PROF EXT, MONITERM, LM CARD, 2 MG RAM) THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL VERSIONS OF VENTURA WE HAVE BUILT UP A WONDER DTP TYPESETTING BUSINESSS AROUND YOUR PROGRAM THANK YOU Date: 01-17-89 (17:44) Number: 744 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DICK CAMPBELL Read: YES (Has Replies) Subj: PSW FONT WIDTH QUESTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I offer this story and analysis for comment from anyone who knows. A client brought a lengthy mostly-text CHP file set for us to print on our laser printer. This chapter was prepared using VP2.0 and using the fonts distributed with the 2.0 package. I read it in to VP2.0 but I am using the Bitstream font generator which has created font sets based on PS character width. As you guessed, long 'bout page three, we slipped a word at the bottom line. I studied the font files (HLVB3008.SFP vs AA080IHP.SFP) and noticed the cap M width for the former is 104 while the latter is 108. The percent sign (%) has a width of 104 for the former and 112 for the latter. The copyright notice near the beginning of each file is identical - both (C) Bitstream, Inc, 1987. My question is - why can't Xerox distribute PS width fonts with VP which exactly match the PS width fonts in the Bitstream kit also distributed by Xerox? It's an annoyance more than a serious problem, but I thought I'd mention it to see if it a "match" can be had in the next release. Dick Campbell Date: 01-19-89 (16:47) Number: 745 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: CHRIS COFFIN Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: UTILITY TO CAPTURE SCREEN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello all, Thank you to whoever started this BBS for existing! We are new to DTP and hope to both contribute and also find some answers to some questions about using Ventura and making it easier to be productive with this powerful package. We have an immediate need that we are trying to find an answer for. We are writing a manual on a software product and want to capture our screens and be able to incorporate them into the manual without re-creating them. The screens/menu contain standard ASCII characters as well as the higher end box drawing graphic characters. We have SNIPPER and a couple of other utilities but they don't seem to translate well into the VP domain. Are we completely missing something? Is there a way to do this and keep it in the TEXT format? Is there a utility to print them to a LaserJet and then paste them? Any and all input is appreciated.... The hunt goes on! Best regards, Chris Coffin Touchbase Systems Date: 01-19-89 (18:53) Number: 747 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 716 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: EMM MANAGERS AND WINDOWS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rodney...I'm shipping a package produced by a company called Lanthana. The claim that is does work with Ventura Publisher. You might also want to take a look at Frank Wancho's message entered today. Date: 01-19-89 (18:59) Number: 749 To: ROBERT THOMAS Refer#: 719 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: COMMENT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rob...there was a message on our local Fido net echo about PC Pursuit having a problem with baud rate shifiting. It seems that 1200 baud calls were getting down shifted to 450 baud and that 2400 baud calls were dropping to 600 baud. Since few bulletin boards support these speeds. I assume that a lot of the calls were simply geeting dropped since the boards didn't know how to handle them. Date: 01-19-89 (19:14) Number: 752 To: ROGER FIRTH Refer#: 722 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: PROBLEM WITH ALT/NNN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Roger...I'll point out this problem to John Grant when he returns from vacation (22 January). Hans Andriese from the VPUG in The Netherlands has also brought this problem to our attention. Date: 01-19-89 (19:21) Number: 753 To: DONNA HARRINGTON Refer#: 731 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: VP 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The name of the file VP20.ARC uploaded by Dennis Latkowski has been renamed to LMVP20.ARC since a file of that name already existed. The file has been also moved to the LaserMaster Conference area. Note that an agreement has been reached with LaserMaster where updated files will be periodically uploaded to the Forum and placed in the new conference. Date: 01-19-89 (19:24) Number: 754 To: JOHN RICHARDSON Refer#: 734 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: VENTURA PROFESSIONAL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The December and January issue of the magazine are running late according to the VPUG circulation manager. The source of the problem is a post office computer problem involving bulk rate permits. December is mailed and January is being processed. February will be shipped in about a week. If you continue to have problems, leave a message fro Christina Martinelli. She will follow through. Date: 01-19-89 (19:48) Number: 755 To: LENNY BAILES Refer#: 737 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: VP SCREEN FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The .PSF file extension had to exist for VP 1.1 to recognize the screen fonts. Ventura 1.1 was mapped to display the fonts as 75 dpi. This is no longer necessary with VP 2.0 since any extension can be assigned to any screen font. Date: 01-19-89 (19:50) Number: 756 To: LENNY BAILES Refer#: 738 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: SCREEN FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Adobe-1 through Adobe-7 are the same screen fonts, but they are stored in the disk format used in the 7 disk set distributed by VPUG. Many users wanted an easier way of downloading the entire font set without having to download the files for each typeface. Date: 01-19-89 (20:04) Number: 759 To: DICK CAMPBELL Refer#: 744 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: PSW FONT WIDTH QUESTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I don't know if this has anything to do with the problem, but not two long ago, the LaserMaster Corporation shipped new Bitstream outline fonts to all users indicating that they would break line endings correctly. I'll lay odds that you have and older set of outlines which do not have the new code. I would call Bitstream and ask them what's going on. I use the LaserMaster often and had experienced line break problems after two or three pages of multi-column text before the new fonts arrived. I have'nt run into the problem lately and we've received no complaints from our typographer. Date: 01-19-89 (20:15) Number: 760 To: CHRIS COFFIN Refer#: 745 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: UTILITY TO CAPTURE SCREEN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ventura remaps certain ASCII characters between 160 and 254 which conflict with the line characters in the IBM character set. HP and VS Software both sell font sets which place the line character set in the lower 128 numbers. There are althernate solutions though. I've done a lot of the same type of work. SymSoft, Inc. sells a product called HotShot Grab which will save the file off in their .SCR format or .PCX format. They also sell a second product called HotShot Graphics which will take an SCR file and convert it into a text file. The quality of the Courier screen font used by SymSoft has been preferable to my customers when I deliver PCX files rather than text files. It looks a little more natural. If you would rather use a straight text file, order the line drawing set ffrom VS Software in Oklahoma and use HotShot Graphics to make the text files. The telephone numbers for SymSoft and VS Software should be in the bulletin containing the telephone directory (12 I think). Inner Media Systems makes another product called collage that does the same. I will save a file in PCX or Text format. Jewell Technologies makes a screen capture program called Graph Plus which offers similar features. Look in the small adds in the back of PC World magazine for an address. Other products exist which capture screens and other users may have product names and vendor telephone numbers. Date: 01-19-89 (20:20) Number: 761 To: ROGER FIRTH Refer#: 722 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: PROBLEM WITH ALT/NNN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Roger...if you're using WordPerfect 5.0, look through the message base for the thread of messages that users have entered. Date: 01-19-89 (21:07) Number: 762 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: KEYCAP POSTSCRIPT FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have been searching for over a year for a postscript font that represetns the keyboard keys, commonly known as Key Caps or Keys. The only luck I have had so far are those fonts made for the HP, i.e. bitmapped fonts. Does such a thing exist for Postscript, and if not, is there anyone out there that is capable of creating a font of this type? Date: 01-19-89 (22:02) Number: 765 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: FRANK WANCHO Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VP 2.0 BUG? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE On a Z248 (EGA) IBM-AT clone with 640K plus 2.5MB extended memory under MSDOS 3.20 with HIMEM.SYS (2.04), CLEAN17, and GUARDIAN loaded, leaving 588,768 bytes available according to CHKDSK: Get GEMBRDRS.ARC into its component .GEM files and load all 24 of them into a fresh VPPROF. Create 24 frames, five in a row, in the default portrait screen, each frame about 1.06" wide by 1.38" high. Load one .GEM file per frame then go to the File Menu and observe that it is not correct. I was able to print anyway, and when it came back, the File Menu was restored to normal. . Alternately, load all the .GEM files, then create and load a .GEM file into each frame as you go. Then go back and select a frame and then select the Frame Menu. When I did that, after having previously dropped into the built-in monitor before running VPPROF and then continuing DOS, I got a debug display as follows: . AX = 0005 BX = 5D41 CX = 0108 DX = 3686 SI = 0102 BP = 010A SP = 0110 CS = 1BC5 DS = 5D41 SS = 0005 ES = 0005 IP = 001B FL = NC PO NA NZ PL DI UP NV . 1BC5:001B BF0000 MOV DI,0000 . I hope that display is of some significance and value. I believe this is repeatable. If this is a limitation rather than a bug, it should have objected gracefully rather than allow corruption. . --Frank Date: 01-19-89 (22:41) Number: 767 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: FRANK WANCHO Read: (N/A) Subj: LOGITECH MOUSE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE It was only after using the C7 Logitech Mouse for a year and VP almost as long that I carefully read the LT manual again. So, many of you may already know this: The LT Mouse, by default, comes up emulating a PC mouse at 1200 bps. VP has built-in support for the PC mouse. Thus, you don't need to run a MOUSE.SYS or MOUSE.COM. But, if you do run either of them, they set the port to 2400 and emulate the MS Mouse (and take up valuable RAM). If you have ZSoft's Paintbrush, you have SUMMA.COM, and that's the solution. For PB and several other products, just use that program instead of MOUSE.SYS or MOUSE.COM for any product other than VP which doesn't have built-in PC Mouse support. You can even run SUMMA and still go into VP without using a different VP.BAT setup. (Part of this, particularly the fact that SUMMA works, came from the Q&A notes from Xerox online here.) . --Frank Date: 01-19-89 (23:09) Number: 769 To: DONNA HARRINGTON Refer#: 732 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: NO Subj: VENTURA MEMORY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Donna: Would be glad to help. Haven't met a VP 2.0 yet that I couldn't get to load (I sound like a horse trainer...) Rick A. Date: 01-19-89 (23:16) Number: 770 To: DICK CAMPBELL Refer#: 744 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: PSW FONT WIDTH QUESTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dick: Maybe I'm missing part of the saga, but it seems to me that when your client delivers the chapter to you, he/she can supply the width table as well. That way, you use the width table that was used to develop the chapter. That is the reason that the Multi-Chapter Copy All command copies the width table along with the rest of the chapter files. As you have discovered, anytime you use a width table to complete work on a chapter that was started with a different width table, it's a crapshoot. Hope this helps. Rick Altman Date: 01-19-89 (23:20) Number: 771 To: CHRIS COFFIN Refer#: 745 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: NO Subj: UTILITY TO CAPTURE SCREEN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Chris: I don't know of any way to capture graphic screens and keep them in text format -- in fact, the grand challenge is to prevent them from being simple text screens, but rather a standard graphic format like GEM or PCX that Ventura can import directly. There are a bunch of programs that capture screens and store them in Ventura-compatible form, including some on this BBS. They are called GCAP and TCAP, produced by Alchemy Mindworks, a zany but brilliant group of writers from Canada. Happy capturing. Rick Altman Date: 01-19-89 (23:37) Number: 772 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 762 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: KEYCAP POSTSCRIPT FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rodney...I've been looking for the same. Do me a favor an call Paperback Software (aka Adam Osborne) in Berkley, CA. I spotted a message a while back on another bulletin board indicating that they do have a PostScript and Bitmapped version of a Keycap font that they use in their own publications. I'm told that if you ask for the font they will ship it at a nominal charge. Let me know if they do have the font. If not, I'll make one and put it on the board. ...Gene Date: 01-20-89 (00:19) Number: 775 To: FRANK WANCHO Refer#: 765 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: VP 2.0 BUG? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Wow...Frank, you found a way to display the DOS registers in Ventura. I'm sure John Grant is going to want to know about that one. It looks like it is an error checking routine designed to show the status of the registers and the assembly language command line where the error occurred. Real nice work and thanks for the excellent documentation. You get a security upgrade of 10 for that one. ...Gene Date: 01-20-89 (00:45) Number: 777 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: GEM DRIVERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Everyone...John Meyer faxed a list of GEM drivers to VPUG today which could work with Ventura Publisher. Those of you who have been using GEM versions 3.0 and 3.1 may have noticed a sudden similarity in the program names and file naming syntax used in the GEM Desktop. It seems that the compatability gap between Ventura Publisher's drivers and the GEM drivers is closing. In a few days, I'll post the list in a file called GEMDRVR1.ARC. John indicates that all of the drivers for GEM 3.1 should work in theory, but no one has had time to test them. As users begin to return input to the Forum, the file will be updated. I'll add asterisks or some similar coding to the end of each driver listing which is known to work. If I get time, I'll post the list of drivers as a bulletin in the GEM Conference. John indicates that some of the older drivers may work as well. All you users out there with dot matrix printers should take note of this. Digital Research has most printers covered in their collection of drivers. ...Gene Date: 01-20-89 (03:00) Number: 778 To: STEPHEN HUENERS Refer#: 77 From: GEORGE WEINERT Read: NO Subj: QUESTION ON NEWSDESI.ARC Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Have unarched and very same file, with no problems opening the chapter files. Possibly you recieved a transmission error, which is cauing VP to find the glitch in the header info, and not recognize this as a valid chapter file. Regarding removing the text files, simply select the frame in question, then use the Edit Text/Picture Selection from the Edit Men and Remove the file ihe question from the frame, or list of files if you don't need it at all. George M. Weinert V Date: 01-20-89 (03:09) Number: 779 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 115 From: GEORGE WEINERT Read: YES Subj: DOING FINE... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE No Gene, I am not DEAD, nor have I forgotten about things. Unfortunately, I have been ill, and have been hospitalized for a week or so and have been out of commission. I have so far had two qyeries for info on VPUG from my notices on PIS and also was contacted by Jeff Rollins regarding the downtown Chapter hs is forming,though he did not get back to me asyet - plan on getting in touch with him this week. Still would like to see a viable downtown Chapter, and feel lthat PIS should be an important part of it as well. Also, just got off CIS and gave your system, as well as the NPE and of course PIS a nice plug in the IBM APPLICATIONS FOFUM as well as uploaind some of our VP files (no, not yours, from PIS). Sorry for the delay, but was quite ill, and shall attempt to get in touch with you during the early portion of next week, for the situation with Users Groups for the VP User here in Chicago is Ludicrous! Incidentally, if you have not heard, Jerome Nelson (formerly midwest DTP Director for Xerox in Des Plaines - he's the guy that screwed up the VPUG meeting in Des Plaines where John Meyer was supposed to speak) also has formed a Ventura Group - he uses the name Ven Group, Inc - a caller sent me his info, and of course hs is also offering VP Training seminars ($310.00 per day too!) Not sure if he is still associated with Xerox, you would have to ask Kettlecamp, but seems that would really be a conflict of interest. Anyway, PIS is going strong - unfortunately, have had a bug in the new version, and our conferences have been a mess, since they are not functional,\ - however, the VP related matters are all taking place in the Open Section anyway, and plan on solving the problem this week. Shall be in touch shortly, and tell Bob I said hi. Date: 01-20-89 (04:29) Number: 780 To: ROB PANNONI Refer#: 739 From: GEORGE WEINERT Read: YES Subj: WHICH LASER TO BUY.. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE LaserMaster is currently shipping a new product, LM-Page with their new LC 2 Controller Card - with the Enhanced Pluse version, a full 35 PS compatible font library is provided (using the Bitstream Fontware Outlines) as well as Special Effects for Rotating, Obliqueing, Rotating and Filling and Shadowing Fonts. LM Page is a utility that will convert LM .QDL (quick download format) and LaserMaster Graphics Code to a PS file for complete compatibility with Linotronic ImageSetters. Going to be adding the LC 2 in the next week or so, so operational details shall be provided as they become available. LM also has the DPS1 in the works (release target date is Mar 1, 1989) which shall provide the VP user with FULL WYSING for Font Effects and Graphics fills - the initial release shall be configued for EGA and Multi-Sync Monitors, with a full Page Version of the video card due in June, for users of the Wyse 700 or Amdek 1200 monitors. Date: 01-20-89 (04:45) Number: 781 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GEORGE WEINERT Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: VP2.0 AND FRAMES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Fascinating bug developed this week - altered &news-p2.sty so that the first column was 22 pics, with a 1 pica gutter, with an 18,06 column for the second, nothing else. Placed a frame, with the usual caption info and loaded a pic. So far, so good - however, once the fram was given an ancho name, and an anchor was inserted into the text which followed it (directly below), VP 2.0 decided to shift the frame over from the left margein (this was on a right handed page) by 6 picas! After grabbing the frame, and dragging it back to its' proper position, VP 2.0 STILL REFUSED to align it properly, even though Snap to Columnb Guides was in effect. Replicated the same situation with &book-ps.chp, just to make sure it was not a bug, with prefect results. Checked all in from left, in from right, margins, etc in the tag's paragraph settings to no avail! Gene - if you would care to lookat the style sheet in question and the particular tag, be nice to get an answer. Additionaly, after creating a repeating frame, at the top of page 1, and selecting Show on Left and Right Pages - discovered that the repeating frame on page 2 had ALSO been shifted, but this time by only 3 picas. Obviously, the solution for that was to simply set left and right repeating frame pages seperately, but has anyone else had this experience? There is nothing unusual about the style sheet, and the width table in effect is a highly modified version of hpljplus, with the addition of a large number of Bitstream Fontware Fonts. What is so puzzling is that the effect does not replicate itself in other chapters or style sheets, but if all of the tag's settings reveal n¼o valid reason, where is one to look for a valid reason? Date: 01-20-89 (19:29) Number: 784 To: KEN RUBMAN Refer#: 742 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: VP 20 QUESTIONS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE 1) The text can be put in any directory. Follow these directions: a) Selectthe Frame mode. b) Select the page (or if you put the text into frames thatyou draw, select one of these frames). c) Select the File Type/Rename optionin the Edit menu. d) Change the name of the directory path. You can alsochange the name of the file and the type of wordprocessor format. e) SelectOK. f) Save the chapter. The next time you create a new text file, it willbe placed into this directory with the same wordprocessor format (unless youload another chapter in the meantime which points to a different directory).Thus the chapter file always puts the text into the last directory fromwhich text was loaded. 2) The chapter will not automatically be named basedon the wordprocessor convention if you select SAVE AS in the file menuinstead of SAVE. True, the title bar will initially show the name of achapter based on the text file name, but you can override it with SAVE AS.Incidentally, having the program work this way has saved novices hundreds ofhours searching for chapters which they inadvertently name with a namedifferent from the text file. Most new users take awhile to catch on to theidea of a separate file for chapters than the file for text. 3)Discretionary hyphen 2 is part of a series of discretionary hyphens withinVentura Publisher. These hyphens are for non-English languages. If you placethe text cursor so that the HYPHEN appears in the current selection box, andthen press the discretionary hyphen key (CTRL -), you can cycle through allthe hyphen types. I don't actually know what all of them do, and didn'tdocument it since the English version doesn't have to deal with it. Finally,your other problems sound like a possible interaction with the screen driverand Ventura Publisher. Usually when the screen is corrupted in discretelocations (as opposed to totally blowing up or just plain crashing) thisindicates a bug in the screen driver. If you can come up with a test casethat repeats, let me know. Also, if the Hyphen-2 is appearing after anoperation other than the one I describe, let me know how to re-create it.It's also possible that you have inserted some strange character sequence inyour wordprocessor by forgetting to terminate a <$ > code. Date: 01-20-89 (20:54) Number: 785 To: DICK CAMPBELL Refer#: 744 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: PSW FONT WIDTH QUESTION Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The fonts you are using are intentionally different. The HLVB3008.SFP file (and all other font files with similar names) are LaserJet fonts designed to be used with the HP LaserJet. (Hewlett-Packard distributes fonts from a different source through different licensing arrangements than those available from Adobe Systems who control PostScript.) The Bitstream Font generator can create fonts for either LaserJet or PostScript. The outlines will not match those from Adobe because they are licensed from different vendors. That is why Bitstream uses the tradename Swiss (r) instead of Helvetica (r) and Dutch (r) instead of Times Roman (r). Each pair (e.g., Swiss and Helvetica) is VERY similar, but not exactly the same. When Fontware builds a font for a Laserjet, it creates widths which follow the HP conventions. When it builds a font for PostScript, it uses the same font outline used for the LaserJet, but follows the width conventions used for the LaserJet. Thus, what we distribute, and what Fontware produces are exactly in sync. If you build fonts for a LaserJet, using he LaserJet widths you should get the same widths as the fonts we distribute. If you somehow change fool Fontware into creating width which match PostScript, then the widths won't match. Date: 01-20-89 (20:55) Number: 786 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 777 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: GEM DRIVERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Let me clarify a little bit, Gene, about the GEM drivers. The Digital Research drivers MAY work. You said SHOULD work, and I think that is a too confident. There is going to be an issue of fonts with all of the drivers. Digital Research drivers are hardwired to look for fonts in the GEMSYS directory. Also, their fonts are stored in compressed form. In theory this is no problem if you run Ventura Publisher from the GEM Desktop, but then you can't use all the settings in the VP.BAT file to customize your memory. Also, HIMEM.SYS will not be used since that is not supported by the GEM Desktop. Without going into lots of detail, these drivers MAY be usable, and if they can be had from Digital Research for a reasonable price, then some of you may want to try them out. My STRONG RECOMMENDATION to VPUG, and the one I made to Bob Moody, is to contact Digital Research BEFORE you post this information or start broadcasting it. Find out how a user can get these drivers. Find out if ANY of them have been tested with Ventura Publisher. Date: 01-20-89 (21:20) Number: 787 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 772 From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: KEYCAP POSTSCRIPT FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the tip. Date: 01-20-89 (22:18) Number: 788 To: FRANK WANCHO Refer#: 765 From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: VP 2.0 BUG? Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Frank, in repeating your process in #765 I found that after loading all of the images into frames that the names in the assignment list corresponded correctly to the names in the frames, however, when I pulled down the File Menu, "HIDE TABS AND RETURNS ^" suddenly appeared in grey, instead of being in the Options Menu where it belongs! Then my system stopped. . I have a system 1800 Everex AT with 1024 memory total running Professional Extension and a Hercules Monitor. Date: 01-20-89 (22:20) Number: 789 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: #765 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, I thought I would try to duplicate as best I could the reported bug in message 765. You may want to read my message #788 for my findings. Date: 01-21-89 (02:10) Number: 790 To: SYSOP Refer#: NONE From: PHILIP BURTON Read: YES Subj: TDOC794C PROBLEMS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, (assuming you are the author of the TDOC* series) On my printer, each of these style sheets prints for 5 - 10 pages, then stops output. VP continues to "print" pages, but the printer stops. The activity light on the printer continues to work, so the printer is receiving data. This problem occurs with VP 1.1. Is it a VP problem, a printer problem, or a style sheet problem. If I restart the print output, then things work normally for another 5 - 10 pages. What gives?? Date: 01-21-89 (07:07) Number: 791 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: NONE From: HEIDI WALDMANN Read: YES Subj: VPUG Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Gene, how can we in Minnesota find out about VPUG? I'm a member of the local group, which is growing by leaps and bounds as they say, but I would love to join the national group and get the magazine. Also, is this board now or will it soon be tied into the FIDO echo? I've seen a few of your messages in Laserpub, and my sysop, Don Seiford of Nick's Nest (612/490-1187) (sorry, I don't have the node info) is willing and interested in carrying the echo. Meanwhile, I can't thank you enough for this board! Date: 01-21-89 (07:11) Number: 792 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: HEIDI WALDMANN Read: YES Subj: EPS FILES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John, would you know why EPS files brought in from Corel Draw (beta v.0.97) are not positioned accurately on screen? It is a mess trying to get them to line up with associated text, rules, etc. I'm using a Hercules board. Mind you, I'm not complaining about aspect ratio, I understand that's a little off and have learned to compensate, but trying to align the bottom of an EPS graphic with a baseline has been purely trial and error. What should I try? Date: 01-21-89 (08:17) Number: 793 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DEIRDRE' STRAUGHAN Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: JOB OPPORTUNITY Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Job Opportunity Small international management consulting firm in Chantilly, VA (Washington DC metro area) seeks a desktop publishing specialist. Strong Ventura, typing, editing, and PC skills. Systems configuration/installation skills a plus. Opportunities to become DTP trainer/consultant, with minimum one international assignment annually. Must be self-starter, learner, persistent, mature, with excellent people skills. Daily work expected to include publishing company and client materials, ranging from brochures and newsletters to large, complex training manuals. Occasional systems design, integration, sales possible. International assignments would be installation of and training on DTP systems in Third World countries (see article by Deirdre' Straughan in Dec. issue Ventura Professional). This young company offers plenty of opportunities for growth and self-direction. And it's fun! Start $20,000 + health insurance, vacation. Possible opportunities for additional income. Call Deirdre' at Team Technologies, Inc. (703) 435-5555. Interviews begin Feb. 6th. Position to be filled ASAP. Date: 01-21-89 (12:23) Number: 794 To: PHILIP BURTON Refer#: 790 From: BYRON CANFIELD Read: NO Subj: TDOC794C PROBLEMS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE What printer are you using? Are you using any print spooling utility? If you are using a serial cable, are you certain that the XON/XOFF or DTR signals are being returned to the computer from the printer? If it is not receving these signals, it doesn't know to stop transmission of data when the printer is busy. Date: 01-21-89 (13:40) Number: 796 To: GEORGE WEINERT Refer#: 781 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: VP2.0 AND FRAMES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'll take a look at that George. There might be a tiny frame in that location that is causing the problem. But, if it is moving 6 picas I don't think so. John Grant will be back from vacation in a couple of days. He may have some ideas also. Date: 01-21-89 (13:59) Number: 799 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 786 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: GEM DRIVERS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE We'll be doing just that John. The list we received did not have DRI part numbers and we have asked for these already. We've also spoke to Hank Walker from the GEM Users Group here in San Jose. He's polling users to determine if they've had any success running the drivers with Ventura within the GEM environment. Bob Moody indicated that all the 3.1 drivers would work. Thanks for the clarification. Date: 01-21-89 (14:04) Number: 800 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 789 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: #765 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Rodney...I'll try to duplicate the problem as soon as I can. We're a bit under the gun this month with two publications going out the door. Let me no if you have any luck on that PostScript font. I have a bitmapped font I made two years ago using some converted TEX fonts. I can pass these through Publisher's TypeFoundry to make something useful. Date: 01-21-89 (14:07) Number: 801 To: PHILIP BURTON Refer#: 790 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: TDOC794C PROBLEMS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I don't know Phil. I decompressed the file and sucessfully printed it on my HP LaserJet Series II equipped with a LaserMaster LX6 card and a second HP Series II with a ConoDesk 6000 card. Sounds like a printer problem to me. Are you getting any error messages? Date: 01-21-89 (14:25) Number: 802 To: HEIDI WALDMANN Refer#: 791 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: VPUG Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Heidi...Bob Moody the president of the National Group has some type of special pricing system for VPUG chapters and affiliate groups. It allows the group to purchase the magazine at a discount and resell it to their users. You can talk to the the officers at your local group about this to see if they're interested. You can also call Sonya Jackson at 408-227-5068 to get information about joing the national group yourself. .. As for the IFNA echos, I've developed a plan to open the echos to users. The LASERPUB echo and several other echos are currently coming into the Forum. A QuickBBS bulletin board system will temporarily serve as a sub-board, allowing users to read the echos and respond to messages. Hopefully, within the next month, I will have all the software in place to feed echo mail in and out of the PCboard message system. When this happens there will be a VENTURA echo starting. I've added the Fido address of your local sysop's board to my listing and a notification will be sent to his board when the echo officially starts. Note that we plan to start more than one echo. A GEM echo run by the GEM User's Group and a PostScript Echo are also planned. If volunteers from other User's Groups come forward additional echos may be started. ...Gene Date: 01-21-89 (15:53) Number: 803 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 800 From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: #765 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'm in no hurry, just thought I would pass along, . Will let you know my luch with postscript keycaps. Date: 01-21-89 (21:20) Number: 805 To: HEIDI WALDMANN Refer#: 792 From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO Subj: EPS FILES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE If you can see the EPS files on the screen, it is because the program places either a screen-resolution TIFF bit-image or a Windows metafile representation into the PostScript file in addition to the PostScript code itself. This is necessary because otherwise the only way to display the image is to have a Display-PostScript board in your machine which no one except Steve Jobs (in his Next Computer) has built. The problem you may be having is that the bit image may not match exactly the EPS file. If you can upload the file to this board, I'll take a look at it and see what's going on. Date: 01-22-89 (21:29) Number: 811 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: SUSAN SINGER Read: (N/A) Subj: VENTURA PROFESSIONAL MAG. Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I am a recent subscriber to your magazine, and I think your publication has helped me more than any other reference material I've read. Your magazine seems to touch problems I encounter on various projects I'm working on. I just wanted to let you know you have a happy camper in Portland, Oregon. <<<<>>>> Date: 01-23-89 (13:22) Number: 813 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: FRAME FILL PATERNS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Is there a way in which I can create frames (from the Frame Mode) that will be transparent? The only way I can think of a way to do this is with postscript code in the ps2.pre file. I would like to create a frame with a fill pattern of #3 that is transparent enough to show some line art that is underneath. This frame is a shadow box that is underneath and offset from a frame of text Date: 01-23-89 (14:38) Number: 814 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: 805 From: DAVID GELLER Read: YES Subj: EPS FILES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Is Ventura planning to support process color and color TIFF? Thanks in advance, Date: 01-23-89 (15:40) Number: 815 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: 813 From: BYRON CANFIELD Read: YES Subj: FRAME FILL PATERNS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The way Ventura sends frames to the printer is in the order they are laid on the page. By definition, in Posts (got a phone line bleep there) ...in PostScript there are no transparent colors (grays). In order to achieve the effect you desire, the line art would have to be the last applied (on top), with the FLOW TEXT AROUND attribute in the Sizing and Scaling set to OFF. Make sure the screen tint frame is underneath all frames that are supposed to show their contents. Date: 01-23-89 (17:59) Number: 821 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: MAGAZINE SCHEDULE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Here's the schedule of issue themes for those of you who want to submit articles to the magazine. MARCH -- Forms. Tips and Tricks and Features for creating business forms and related publications. APRIL -- Technical Documentation. MAY -- Typesetting. Articles on using Ventura Publisher as a front end for a typesetter, features about sending and preparing publications for a typesetters. Also a listing of Typesetting Services registered with the users group. If you have a typesetting service and want to be on the list, call Carroll Baker at 408-227-5068. JUNE -- Professional Extension. This was to be the March issue's theme and Ventura Software said to wait. Hmmmm...I wonder why? JULY -- Networking. How to run Ventura Publisher in a networking environment on supported LANs and on some unsupported LANs. AUGUST -- Database Publishing. Tips & Tricks and articles about moving database information into Ventura Publisher plus a few surprises. SEPTEMBER - Potpourri and Seybold Conference. A collection of articles which fit no specific theme and the latest news from the Seybold Desktop Publishing Conference. OCTOBER - Newsletter Publishing. NOVEMBER - COMDEX Special Edition. DECEMBER - Year in Review. JANUARY - Annual Compatability Guide and 1989 Index. All users can submit articles to Ventura Professional! magazine. If you're interested, contact Gene Rodrigues or Carroll Baker at 408-227-5068 or leave a message for either editor on the Forum. More reviews will be appearing in the magazine in future issues. If you have writing experience and a reference or two, call us. If you would like to see articles focused on a specific topic, let us know. Monetary compensation for writing articles -- gosh you got to be kidding. You'll have to settle for the recognition you receive and few perks here and there including access to a private line to the Forum. Best regards...Carroll & Gene Date: 01-23-89 (20:02) Number: 822 To: DAVID GELLER Refer#: 814 From: JOHN MEYER Read: NO Subj: EPS FILES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE No plans for process color announced at this time. We need several things first: (1) a color printer that people can afford that can be used to quickly proof color work. (2) an installed base of typesetting equipment that can hold registration well enough to make process color work (Linotronic 100 is not adequate and Linotronic 300 is barely adequate). Date: 01-23-89 (21:15) Number: 823 To: BYRON CANFIELD Refer#: 815 From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: YES Subj: FRAME FILL PATERNS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE OF COURSE! Thanks alot Date: 01-24-89 (03:34) Number: 826 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: COMPUSERVE FILES Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John...I've placed the Compuserve files we spoke of on the phone on-line. The listings are in the Main Board's Communication program file directory. You need to download TAPCIS.ARC (the TAPCIS programs), and TAPDOC.ARC (the documentation). I also uploaded two additional files TAPINF.ARC (apparently a summary of the TAPCIS system) and TAPNUM.ARC (the node numbers for Compuserve). You need the initial two files and most likely to TAPNUM file. Any word on when the CompuServe Conference is going to start. I've got a lot of users calling in long distance who could save quite a bit of money when the conference goes into operation. If you need anything else, let me know. ...Gene Date: 01-24-89 (03:43) Number: 827 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: WP4.2 -> WP5.0 CONVERTER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John Finlayson uploaded a utility for WordPerfect 5.0 users. It converts the WP 4.2 ASCII character set over to the WP 5.0 character set. All you users who are having problems with the new character mapping used in WP 5.0 might want to download the file. The Ventura Publisher programmers should be back in town this week. Hopefully, they may be able to provide updated information about the problem. Thanks John for the time and effort you spent making the utility for users. The work is very much appreciated. Anyone who finds the utility useful should drop a thank you note to John in consideration for his efforts. ...Gene Date: 01-24-89 (03:55) Number: 828 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: RELAY MAIL READER Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The Relay Mail Reader either has some installation problems or the current version of the files are incompatible with the LAN the Forum is running on. We'll be spending some time this weekend trying to work the bugs out of the system. Note that the Reader software is not shareware and requires registration. We'll also be looking at alternate methods of downloading mail from the Forum automatically. In a few days, the IFNA (International FidoNet Association) message system will be opened to users. We have a desktop publishing conference called LASERPUB and several additional conferences users will find worthwhile coming into the Forum. Note that the Door opens to a QuickBBS bulletin board system connected to the Forum. Initially, only one user will be able to enter the door at one time. I'm working on a special modification to the board which will allow multiple users to enter the door at the same time. We'll probably need a few weeks to complete those modifications. Software has also been installed to directly place the LASERPUB echo messages into a normal PCboard conference area. However, until the last peice of PCboard software is finished, we will not be able to enter replies to those messages within PCboard. So you can quickly read messages from within PCboard, but if you want to answer them, you'll need to do so by selecting the IFNA Conference option from the Door menu. All of this will happen in the next few days. Those of you who need the PCKERMIT protocol (7-E-1 callers) to download binary files (programs and such) will have to wait another week until the latest release of ProDoor arrives. We will be installing all of the protocols supported on the old WildCat system plus a few new ones we just learned about (JModem for one). ...Gene Date: 01-24-89 (03:58) Number: 829 To: BYRON CANFIELD Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: MESSAGE BASE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Byron...I've got the program to convert the message base files to ASCII form. For some strange reason, they're not working correctly. I've contacted the program author and he knows what the problem is. I should have a software update on-line here in the next 48 hours. ...Gene Date: 01-24-89 (08:10) Number: 831 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: TODD LOONEY Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: HPGL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Is there a way to output an encapsulated postscript file to HPGL? We have a ZetaVue slide maker which accepts Laser Graphics Language (LL) or HPGL and we want to take our Ventura 2.0 documents and make slides. Any help in this area will be greatly appreciated. Thanks! Date: 01-24-89 (11:47) Number: 832 To: SVEN PRETORIOUS Refer#: NONE From: PETER KASTL Read: YES Subj: AST TURBOLASER/PS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have been using an AST Turbolaser/PS for over a year now. SInce it uses a RIcoh engine, it REALLY dumps the toner on the paper, giving it an embossed feel. After 3 calls to AST tech support, I was able to find the adjustment screw to decrease/increase toner. If you get one of these, call me at 504-588-5804 and I'll walk you through it. Other than that, I've enjoyed using this 80 lb. behemouth. The text is sharp, and it comes with serial/parallel/Appletalk ports. Date: 01-24-89 (11:53) Number: 833 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: PETER KASTL Read: (N/A) Subj: LASERTORQ, TRADING POST Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have been using LaserTORQ for months now, and have recently added Trading Post (both from Lasertools Corp.). I have an AT clone and an AST Turbolaser/PS connected through a parallel port. LaserTORQ is an AMAZING print spooler, especially when used on a parallel port. I dedicate 256K EMS memory to it and experience huge speedups of VP printouts. Trading Post is a sister program for those with PS printers. It will translate ASCII printouts from other programs into PS lingo. So I can do actual text screen dumps as well as print out from all those non-PS programs (like my check program). Trading post also spools directly to LaserTORQ. Both programs are relatively cheap, and I recommend them highly. ---PK Date: 01-24-89 (12:01) Number: 834 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 829 From: BYRON CANFIELD Read: NO Subj: MESSAGE BASE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE OK, guess I'll just have to wait (sound of fingers drumming on table-top--:)) Date: 01-24-89 (12:07) Number: 835 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BYRON CANFIELD Read: (N/A) Subj: LASERTORQ & LASERTOOLS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Ditto to Peter Kastl comments about the two LaserTools products. I am currently outputting to a ficticious LPT3 via Trading Post and LaserTorq, and running the printer at 37.6 Kilobaud! I have heard of others (no make that 37.4 KBaud) running at 57.6 KBaud! Another utility, hopefully to be released soon by LaserTools, is a batch font downloader. Incorporate it into batch files to download selective fonts. I currently download 12 fonts in under one minute with no silly fidgeting with a user interface. If you're tired of waiting for your printer to release control of your PC, check 'em out. /×\ Ç׶ Ç×/ÒÒÒ\ º/ººÐºº\ · /ºººÒººº\ ÇÄ·ÖÄ·ÒÄ·ÒÄ· ³ººººÐк º ºÖĶº º º ÀÐÐÐÐÄĽ ÓĽÓÄÐÐ Ð Ó B Y R O N C A N F I E L D Date: 01-24-89 (23:46) Number: 838 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: SLOW 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John M/John G: I have a client with the following problem: - 8Mhz 286 with no memory beyond 640 - Running VP 2.0 Standard - 550k of available memory - Many screen fonts VP will load with an /A of about 16 and will load a chapter without incident. However, when a second chapter is loaded, all text files load very slowly, about 10 times slower than if the chapter was opened immediately after loading the program. Performing a NEW first does not help. Also, print operations are similarly slowed down. Is this a simple matter of needing more value in the /A switch? Why is it only subsequent chapters that load slowly, not the first one during a session. My client is aware of the ultimate solutions -- more memory and a disk cache -- but until the time that she can purchase them, this remains a problem for her. Any ideas? Rick Altman Date: 01-24-89 (23:47) Number: 839 To: JOHN GRANT Refer#: NONE From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: SLOW 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John M/John G: I have a client with the following problem: - 8Mhz 286 with no memory beyond 640 - Running VP 2.0 Standard - 550k of available memory - Many screen fonts VP will load with an /A of about 16 and will load a chapter without incident. However, when a second chapter is loaded, all text files load very slowly, about 10 times slower than if the chapter was opened immediately after loading the program. Performing a NEW first does not help. Also, print operations are similarly slowed down. Is this a simple matter of needing more value in the /A switch? Why is it only subsequent chapters that load slowly, not the first one during a session. My client is aware of the ultimate solutions -- more memory and a disk cache -- but until the time that she can purchase them, this remains a problem for her. Any ideas? Rick Altman Date: 01-25-89 (14:37) Number: 843 To: RICK ALTMAN Refer#: 838 From: JOHN MEYER Read: YES Subj: SLOW 2.0 Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The change in performance may be due to the /A setting. As you may know from some of the application notes I've written, the /A switch is not recommended for systems installed for LaserJet printers. In fact, the only printer installation for which it makes sense to use the /A switch is PostScript. John Grant may have more to add, but my guess is that the /A switch is the culprit. My recommendation is that she temporarily simplify the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC files to get at least another 16K of available memory. Then remove the /A switch from the VP.BAT file and see if the problem doesn't go away. If it does, then the "ultimate" solutions to which you refer (EMS memory, extended memory with HIMEM.SYS or both) will also work. Date: 01-25-89 (15:09) Number: 844 To: RICK ALTMAN Refer#: NONE From: PAUL PEASE Read: YES Subj: GOSCRIPT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I've installed Goscript on my system and now have a Post* PostScript printing capability on my non-PS laserjet plus. For more details, drop me a note on my board (322-6451) or give me a call at 322-2072. Works like a charm! Also, please call me, Rick, if you might want to serve as a beta site for an interesting new laser printer product. Cheers! Paul Date: 01-25-89 (17:42) Number: 845 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 760 From: CHRIS COFFIN Read: YES Subj: UTILITY TO CAPTURE SCREEN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the help Gene. I'll give the companies a call and see what I can come up with. The Courier screens are much clearer and true to what is actually going on so I would like to preserve them, evne if I have to paste them up (bummer). Again, thanks.... Chris (VP is great, but it is so powerful that you can get lost! Soon it shall be within my control.....) Date: 01-25-89 (20:17) Number: 846 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MORAD RAHMANI Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: LINE SPACING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I was trying to follow a guideline for creating form using VP 2.0. The guideline says that, among other things, the horizontal lines should be 1/3 of an inch apart. I also want to use boxed text like: +----------- | Line 1 | | Line 2 +----------- | Line 3 | | Line 4 +----------- I can make line 1 and 2, and also 3 and 4, to be 1/3 of an inch apart by setting interline spacing to .333 inch but how do I control the dist. between line 2 and 3? I am using Helvetica 10 points and have the above, below and inter paragraph set to 0, and interline set to 1/3 of an inch. Please note that line 1 and 2 are part of first box and line 3 and 4 are part of second box. Date: 01-25-89 (20:26) Number: 847 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: JOHN POWELL Read: YES Subj: COLOR OUTPUT SUPPORT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks for the information on the Xerox 4020... I still have not been able to locate anyone in the bay area that can DEMO it to me with anything... let alone with VP... Thanks again.. jr Date: 01-25-89 (23:46) Number: 851 To: TODD LOONEY Refer#: 831 From: DANIEL WILL-HARRIS Read: NO Subj: HPGL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I believe the latest version of HiJaak (which is still in beta) will do this. I'd give Inset Systems a call, since they may have an answer for you. Their number is 800-828-8088. -=Daniel=- Date: 01-25-89 (23:57) Number: 852 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 760 From: DANIEL WILL-HARRIS Read: YES Subj: UTILITY TO CAPTURE SCREEN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I've just tried a whole passel of these programs. Collage from Intermedia is the easiest. It figures out what kind of graphics you are using and saves files directly into PCX format so you don't have to convert them the way you do with Hot Shot Grab. Hot Shot Grab's big advantage is that it lets you edit both text and graphics screens before you convert them, and it converts directly to IMG format. Graph Plus from Jewell is very good, simple and doesn't take much memory. It is, however, extremely slow, and the screen dumps are not as high quality (or as large) as the others. Pizazz Plus is the most versatile, epsecially when you need color screen dumps outputted on something like a Paint Jet. That's just a short round-up. -=Daniel=- Date: 01-26-89 (00:13) Number: 853 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 846 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: LINE SPACING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I have two thoughts: First, why are space above and below set to zero? That is how you can control directly the vertical positioning of Lines 2 and 3. You can move it closer or further away from the box borders and from the neighboring lines of text. Also, if the distance between lines of text is crucial, consider not using Box Text at all. Just keep them together in one frame. You can set the rules with Ruling Line Above/Below and then use graphic lines for the outside boundary. I don't know what the rest of the project looks like, but that will certainly work for the small scenario you have presented here. Good luck! Rick Altman Date: 01-26-89 (05:14) Number: 855 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: MODEM STRINGS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE **************************** H E L P *********************************** We're just about finished with the formatted versions of PACKET1 and PACKET2. Both should be on-line by the end of the week. All of you could help new users by entering a short three line message to the Sysop with a listing of 1) your modem manufacturer and model name, 2) the modem's baud rate, and 3) the initialization string you use to communicate with the system. We're planning on putting this information in a Appendix for new users. Both of the new guides are formatted with Ventura Publisher. A second set of copies in ASCII form will also be placed on-line. Additional Packet files will be added to the system to provide operating decriptions for the door programs. ...Thanks in Advance Date: 01-26-89 (05:32) Number: 856 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: (N/A) Subj: NEW MODERATORS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Four new conferences will be added to the Forum over the next week. The new GEM conference will be moderated by Hank Walker, editor of GEM Facets magazine based here in San Jose. Lynn Walterick, a consultant and technical writer in the Silicon Valley area, will moderate the new Newsletter Publishing and Technical Documentation Conferences. Lynn also serves as an associate editor for Ventura Professional! Magazine. The dBase Publishing Conference area will be opened at the same time. As of yet no one has stepped forward to voluteer as conference moderator. A JLASER conference area was opened earlier this week with no formal announcement. Tall Trees Systems has committed to support the conference and help find a moderator. JLASER users will note that the latest driver upgrade, a normal $30.00 value has been placed on line for downloading. The name of the Ventura Conference will be changing soon. It will be called the Ventura Publisher Support Conference. Users with actual problems, bug reports or those seeking advice should leave messages in this area. By the end of the week, conference areas should be setup for all vertical application areas (Forms, Spreadsheet, books, magazines, etc.). Those users with specific questions about a vertical application should post their messages in the new conference areas. Along with the conferences areas, the Forum screens and directory listings will begin to take on a familiar look. Many of the Wildcat screens from the old bulletin board system are being transplanted in PCboard to simplify the appearance of menus. We've also removed some commands from the menus, although users will still be able to enter the commands from the command line. If any of you are having problems with the system or wish to see more features added, please let us know. ...Gene Date: 01-26-89 (05:57) Number: 859 To: CHRIS COFFIN Refer#: 845 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: UTILITY TO CAPTURE SCREEN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Chris...you might want to pass the screen question to Lynn Walterick after the Technical Documentation conference goes up next week. She may have a bit more experience using ASCII files for screens than I. You're right...Ventura Publisher is hard to master, but you can see the potential solutions to many problems it offers. Date: 01-26-89 (06:06) Number: 860 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 846 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: YES Subj: LINE SPACING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Morad...temporarily switch to fractional points to see if the other three fields are completely cleared. When building tables, especially complex ones, I always set all spacing using fractional points. Also, check the spacing above and below the ruling box around. In fact, avoid using spacing above and below the ruling box -- adjust the interline spacing to increase the space between the interior of the box's rule and the type inside. If you stick to using line feeds and paragraphs to separate elements of the table (as you are) and control interline spacing only you will have no problems. If you're still stuck, give me a call at 408-227-5068. .. ...Gene Date: 01-26-89 (06:10) Number: 861 To: JOHN POWELL Refer#: 847 From: GENE RODRIGUES Read: NO Subj: COLOR OUTPUT SUPPORT Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John...call Bob Zemantek at Xerox in Sunnyvale. You'll need to call the Xerox Information Office. Last told, Bob was the Customer Support person for the printer. If you can't get in touch with Bob, call VPUG and ask them to tell Sandi Baker to give you a call. She's got one. Date: 01-26-89 (22:42) Number: 869 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BILL LAMP'L Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: FILL ATTRIBUTE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Is there any way to get a lighter shade of frame background/fill than even the Pattern 1/black setting gives? (I'm using 2.0 with a postscript printer). Thank you. Date: 01-27-89 (17:18) Number: 874 To: BILL LAMP'L Refer#: 869 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: YES Subj: FILL ATTRIBUTE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bill: You have touched upon one of my pet peeves with Ventura/PostScript. But happily, I can report that with 2.0, there is a solution. The complete discussion is in my book that is due out in early March (plug, plug), and here is an overview: Version 2.0 has a new dialog box called Define Colors, where you can invent your own colors and assign names to them. You can invent a color, call it Light Gray, and turn down all four hues to zero, and then bring up the black ever so slightly -- like, say, 1 or 2 percent. This shade is so light that it won't appear on most displays, but your PS printer will respond with a fine, light background, perfect for backdropoing 9 or 10-point type. Hope this helps. Rick Altman (P.S. - Sybex is publishing the book and it's called Ventura Power Tools, and it comes with a diskette full of really good programs.) Date: 01-27-89 (20:27) Number: 875 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: ED ABORN Read: (N/A) Subj: IT'S BACK! THE NPE NEWS! Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The new and redesigned NPE Monthy Desktop Publishing Telecommunications News Journal is here! For all of you VP v2.0 users, just download and print it out! The file is called: NPENW-13.ARC and is here for your downloading pleasure. So have fun with it and let me know what you think. Designed for any printer! Postscript NOT required! Ed Date: 01-27-89 (23:23) Number: 880 To: BILL LAMP'L Refer#: 695 From: JOHN GRANT Read: YES Subj: SCREEN FONTS, PRINT DRIVR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bill, I agree that the VGA fonts are pretty ugly. I believe these v2.0 fonts were generated with Fontware to include more sizes, whereas the 1.1 fonts were hand-tuned. If you're using one of the NEC P-series 24-wire printers, select Epson LQ. regards, jg Date: 01-27-89 (23:24) Number: 881 To: STEVE BECKWITT Refer#: 696 From: JOHN GRANT Read: NO Subj: POTENTIAL V 2.0 BUG Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Steve, Thanks for the bug report. I've duplicated the problem here, but can't tell you at this time when (if) it will be fixed. regards, jg Date: 01-28-89 (03:56) Number: 886 To: GENE RODRIGUES Refer#: 698 From: JOHN RICHARDSON Read: YES Subj: VENTURA PROFESSIONAL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Thanks. I just got my December issue the other day. It was a really timely issue for my wife and me. thanks again. John Date: 01-28-89 (03:59) Number: 887 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: JOHN RICHARDSON Read: NO (Has Replies) Subj: SPOT COLOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I need some information that the "support staff" at Xerox can't really provide. I haven't upgraded to v2.0 yet but am planning to do so soon. On v2.0, can you see the spot color if you have a VGA color monitor? We are upgrading equipment and the answer to this will help us with our choices for a new monitor. Thanks, John Date: 01-24-89 (17:34) Number: 892 To: DAVE ERGO Refer#: NONE From: RODNEY HARRILL Read: NO Subj: THANKS... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dave, I noticed that you are with Orical, if you are in the 150 Spear Street office, San Francisco, we are on the 15th floor, we have been using Ventura for over a year now. If you have any questions etc, just give me a call: Rodney Harrill, 546-0600 x 225. Date: 01-24-89 (09:54) Number: 893 To: JOHN MEYER Refer#: NONE From: DAVE ERGO Read: YES Subj: THANKS... Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Belated thanks for your fax on multi-chapter operations. Actually, I knew that you could add a single CHP file into an untitled PUB and then copy it over, but most of my people have trouble understanding this... I usually have to walk them through it. What seems to throw them is that the "Copy All" command can be used to copy both a single CHP file AND an entire PUB. After I explain it to them, they understand (sometimes), but remark that it's confusing. It would be helpful if somehow it was a little easier to use this particular feature. Thanks again. Dave Ergo - Oracle Corporation - VP Specialist Date: 01-28-89 (09:26) Number: 894 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: GEORGE HILL Read: (N/A) Subj: ADVICE OF H/W FOR VP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE think I've finally got a loan to purchase a postscript printer and hi-res tube and board for my Ventura work. Now that it means REAL money I'm trying to get the absolutely best poop on both. With my COMPAQ 286 ***PORTABLE*** (the one with the composite 9" semi-color screen), I'm going blind reading it, and have only one slot left for ANYTHING else. Soooo.... this is basically browsing around for good info and best people to ask. Maybe I'll re-capture this message to you and send it in a general mail. {---above is extract of conv. w/sysop. Anybody got some good info?---} Date: 01-19-89 (00:25) Number: 895 To: RODNEY HARRILL Refer#: NONE From: LYNN WALTERICK Read: YES Subj: VP CONSULTANTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Hello again Rod. I'm happy to see you're looking for consultants again/still and wanted to let you know that since we last talked, I've started my own consulting company doing page layout and training. I have VP 2.0 and the Prof. Ext., modem (obviously), PostScript printer with 109 fonts (thanks), a variety of graphics programs, etc. I'm also now on the staff of the VPUG Magazine. I am still interested in working with you at EIP or on your own projects. If you'd like to talk further, please give me a call at (408) 723-3588 or 723-0299. Lynn Date: 01-28-89 (13:21) Number: 896 To: JOHN RICHARDSON Refer#: 887 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: NO Subj: SPOT COLOR Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE John: The answer to your question is a tentative yes: You can see color with a VGA display if you use the right driver, which will only load if you have expanded memory. I have a Video 7 Fastwrite VGA card and a Sony MultiScan. When I run Ventura with the SDFVEG86.VGA screen driver, I see very smooth gradations of both color hues and gray shades. The Define Colors dialog box for 2.0 (which you haven't seen yet) allows me to individually manipulate the four primary hues, with instant visual feedback. But like I said, using SDFVEG86.VGA virtually requires that you have expanded memory available, so factor that into your decision making. Happy Coloring! Rick Altman Date: 01-28-89 (15:35) Number: 897 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: MONTE BATEMAN Read: (N/A) Subj: VENTURA TEST Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE When is the test going to be ready for the members of VPUG? I've paid the $50 fee and I'm anxious to be off and running with it! I was at the 2.0 workshop (good workshop by the way...very informative) last Saturday and I was told that it would be ready the following Monday. One other question I'd like to ask you Bob. I have been working with Ventura Publisher for over two years now. For the last year I have been training people on Ventura at Masters Institute and I feel a strong need to plunge into the raging waters of the consulting and freelancing business. I read the December issue of Ventura Professional on that very subject and found it to be very informative. There was one burning question that was left unanswered however. How does one market oneself in an inexpensive and efficient manner? Is there any references that you would recommend to give more information on this topic specifically slanted to the desktop publishing arena? Actually, one reason why I am straining at the bit to take the aforementioned test is to get my name out to the public as a Ventura Expert. Any information that you can give me on this subject will be much appreciated! Just as an aside I would like to also tell you how much I enjoy the Ventura Publishers Users Group. Thanks for putting it all together! -Monte Bateman- By the way, I'm going to be bringing about 5 of my students to the VPUG meeting in February, can you let me know what information we will be covering? Thanks again. Date: 01-28-89 (20:07) Number: 899 To: RICK ALTMAN Refer#: NONE From: BILL LAMP'L Read: YES Subj: GRAY FILL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Dear Rick: Thank you for your suggestions for obtaining a lighter shade of gray to fill Ventura's frames. It sounded like just the ticket, BUT.....I'm still having problems. Even after choosing the very lightest percent of black (0.2%) I'm still getting a fill very similar to Pattern One, which is too dark for my taste. I know my QMS-810 printer is capable of lighter shades, as it produces just the shade I want on the test page every time it is powered up. Any additional thoughts you might have will be appreciated. By the way, best of luck with the book; just tell me when and where to send the money..... Thanks again, Bill Date: 01-28-89 (20:08) Number: 900 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: BILL LAMP'L Read: (N/A) Subj: VERSION 2.0 LOCKUP Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Has anyone experienced occasional lockups with 2.0? All too often I will go to place the text cursor, click the mouse, and suddenly find myself in a state of suspended animation where no key responds and the only recourse is to reboot. Is this a bug or a hardware problem? Date: 01-28-89 (22:02) Number: 903 To: ROBERT THOMAS Refer#: NONE From: TOM CISPER Read: YES Subj: FONT ASSISTANCE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I RECENTLY DOWNLOADED SEVERAL OF THE SOFT FONT FILES. I TRIED DOWNLOADING THEM TO A HP SERIES II PRINTER USING ELFRING'S DOWNLOAD PROGRAM AS WELL AS TRYING TO PRINT THEM USING THEM LISTFONT. NEITHER OF THESE WOULD RECOGNIZE THESE FONTS. THIS IS NOT MY FIRST TIME USING SOFT FONTS - JUST THE FIRST TIME TRYING TO USE THESE SOFT FONTS. I HUMBLY ASK FOR ANY ASSISTANCE OR INSIGHT YOU MIGHT PROVIDE. SINCERELY. P.S. THANKS FOR ANY HELP YOU CAN PROVIDE. Date: 01-28-89 (23:16) Number: 905 To: BILL LAMP'L Refer#: 899 From: DANIEL WILL-HARRIS Read: NO Subj: GRAY FILL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE If you have GEM draw, draw a square in it and fill it with the lightest shade. I've found that GEM draw drawings (or artline's) with grey print a much finer, lighter shade than Ventura's own. -=Daniel=- Date: 01-28-89 (23:36) Number: 906 To: DANIEL WILL-HARRIS Refer#: 852 From: BYRON CANFIELD Read: NO Subj: UTILITY TO CAPTURE SCREEN Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Will Collage capture screens from a Genius MDS monitor? Oh, please say yes (but only if it's true)! Date: 01-28-89 (23:46) Number: 907 To: MORAD RAHMANI Refer#: 846 From: BYRON CANFIELD Read: NO Subj: LINE SPACING Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE You might also try setting the Inter-Line space (in fractional points) to exactly the same value as the point size of the type, and use either the above space OR the below space to add the extra value needed. It may give you a little more control of what's happening. Date: 01-28-89 (23:57) Number: 908 To: BILL LAMP'L Refer#: 899 From: BYRON CANFIELD Read: NO Subj: GRAY FILL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE I'm assuming that QMS is still bundling the red and blue PostScript books with their printers. Refer to the Cookbook for how to set up a rectangle with a fill pattern (you could set up several for testing purposes), and with that you can define a gray fill using the SETGRAY operator. Typically it would be something like this: %!PS-Adobe-2.0 EPSF-0.0 %%BoundingBox: 0 0 72 72 0.1 setgray 0 0 moveto 0 72 lineto 72 72 lineto 72 0 lineto closepath fill <====if there are characters here, there shouldn't be--line glitch, I think. You can then import this file into any size frame and it will expand or contract accordingly. The 0.1 SETGRAY is 10% black (0.0 being black). You may specify in 100ths as well, i.e. 0.01 (though you're printer probably won't show that light a screen). Date: 01-29-89 (04:23) Number: 910 To: ALL Refer#: NONE From: DENIS LATKOWSKI Read: (N/A) Subj: POSTSCRIPT FONTS Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE The manuals for Gem's Artline mention that a postscript fonts (not Adobe's) can be brought into and used with Artline if the font is in text mode with an extension of PFM(?). Nowhere, on any board, have I been able to locate such a Postscript font file. Anyone have any suggestions/ideas where scuh might be found? Thanks in advance. Date: 01-29-89 (10:19) Number: 911 To: TOM CISPER Refer#: 903 From: ROBERT THOMAS Read: YES Subj: FONT ASSISTANCE Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE If you could leave me a list of the fonts ,what version of Gary's d/l and what program you are trying to use them in. I will take a look. Rob Thomas Date: 01-29-89 (23:21) Number: 914 To: BILL LAMP'L Refer#: 899 From: RICK ALTMAN Read: NO Subj: GRAY FILL Status: PUBLIC MESSAGE Bill: I'm surprised that you're still having problems with too-dark shades -- especially with the 810, which is the printer that I use most of the time. Are you sure that you're choosing SOLID as the pattern once you choose the new color? In most cases, the frame or box you choose should remain clear, as the screen driver probably cannot display such a fine shade, but the printer should reward you with a very light, fine shade. If you remain stumped, why not send or upload the chapter to me and I'll have a look? My address is: 2040 W. Middlefield, No. 5 Mountain View, CA 94043 If you do upload it here, notify Gene R. and when you make the ARC file, leave out the width table, to keep the file size down. Rick A.