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CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color
---------------------------------
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color
---------------------------------
Communications Accessory
---------------------------------
CCOLOR is distributed freely and may be copied by anyone for any
number of machines. The author offers CCOLOR as "shareware". If
the program is found to be useful or entertaining, a registration
of $50.00 is required. The author may be reached at:
CABER Software
R. (Scott) McGinnis
P.O. Box 3607 Mdse Mart
Chicago, IL 60654-0607
PLINK, GEnie id: TARTAN
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color
CCOLOR version 1.3 is copyright 1991 CABER Software (R. Scott
McGinnis). All rights are reserved world wide, excepting redistri-
bution under the ShareWare concept. CCOLOR is distributed freely
and may be copied by anyone for any number of machines, under the
ShareWare concept. Restrictions on redistribution are discussed in
the accompanying document VENDOR.DOC.
CCOLOR is distributed as ShareWare. You may use CCOLOR without
charge for the purposes of evaluating its usefulness. It is sug-
gested that this evaluation period be limited to a few days of actual
use. If you find CCOLOR to be worth continued use, then you must
pay for it. Please complete the form REGISTER.DOC and mail it with
your payment.
Registration of CCOLOR includes COM-AND and all published accessory
programs (which currently are PC-VCO, CCHESS, CBRIDGE, and CCOLOR),
and several utilities (unPACKIT and unSTUFIT). COM-AND, accessories,
and utilities are published separately. One registration covers the
use of any and all of these programs.
By registering your copy of CCOLOR (or any ShareWare product), you
are promoting and supporting the convenient distribution method and
free evaluation policy that brought you this copy of CCOLOR.
If you have received this copy from a Users' Group, "Software
Library" or "SIG", and have paid a small fee (usually $3 to $10),
you have NOT acquired a registration or continued right to use
CCOLOR. This fee was for the convenience of obtaining the diskette
with CCOLOR on it. The fee does NOT apply to the registration fee.
You may NOT distribute CCOLOR or its documentation in connection
with ANY commercial venture, product, publication or service without
written approval. CCOLOR may not be disassembled or modified
without express written consent of its author.
CCOLOR is supplied "as-is" with no warranties expressed or implied.
Neither CABER Software nor the author will be liable for any damages
or lost revenues incurred through the use of this program or any of
its accessories and utilities beyond the registration price paid.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color
COM-AND and its accessories are available as shareware through
PLINK, GEnie, UNISON, NWI, Delphi and CIS. They are also available
through many Bulletin Board systems. Individuals are welcome to
download COM-AND and its accessories for purposes of evaluation, and
to upload them (in entirety) to Bulletin Board systems.
Commercial users of COM-AND must register them with the author or one
of the individuals listed on this page. Site licenses (multiple copy
registrations) are available from:
CABER Software
R. (Scott) McGinnis
P.O. Box 3607 Mdse Mart
Chicago, IL 60654-0607
PLINK, GEnie, Delphi ID: TARTAN
CIS id: 73147,2665
A COM-AND BBS (using a version of COM-AND's BBS script) is operated
by SupportWare of Long Beach, CA. SupportWare is licensed to nego-
tiate COM-AND commercial and site licenses, and provide COM-AND
support. SupportWare offers considerable expertise in the field of
communications consultation. Contact SupportWare through:
SupportWare
Mike Todd
P.O. Box 14927
Long Beach, CA 90803-1449
Voice: (213) 439-6104
BBS: (213) 439-7714 (1200/2400 8n1)
In Japan, COM-AND may be downloaded as shareware from PC-VAN. It
is also available in Japan as a commercial product tailored for
specific machines through:
Discotel Japan (Ciari Soft)
Kurakuen 3 ban-cho 2-50
Nishinomiya 662
Japan
Contact: Claude Ciari
Tel (0798)73-0052
PC-VAN NEC by Ciari
ID: CCIARI
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color
THE ASSOCIATION OF SHAREWARE PROFESSIONALS (ASP)
┌─────────┐
┌─────┴───┐ │ (R)
──│ │o │──────────────────
│ ┌─────┴╨──┐ │ Association of
│ │ │─┘ Shareware
└───│ o │ Professionals
──────│ ║ │────────────────────
└────╨────┘ MEMBER
In 1987 Shareware authors founded the Association of Shareware
Professionals (ASP). In forming this industry association, these
Shareware authors had several primary goals in mind, including:
. To inform users about Shareware programs and about Shareware as
a method of distributing and marketing software.
. To foster professionalism amongst Shareware authors by setting
programming, marketing, and support standards for ASP members.
. To encourage broader distribution of Shareware through user
groups and disk dealers who agree to identify and explain the
nature of Shareware.
. To provide a forum through which ASP members may communicate,
share ideas, and learn from each other.
ASP OMBUDSMAN STATEMENT
CABER Software (R. Scott McGinnis) is a member of the Association of
Shareware Professionals (ASP). ASP wants to ensure that the Share-
ware principle works for you. If you are unable to resolve a Share-
ware-related problem with an ASP member by contacting the member
directly, ASP may be able to help. The ASP Ombudsman can help you
resolve a dispute or problem with an ASP member, but does not provide
technical support for members' products.
Please write to the ASP Ombudsman at:
ASP Ombudsman
Association of Shareware Professionals
545 Grover Road
Muskegon, MI 49442-9427
or send a CompuServe message via CompuServe MAIL to ASP Ombudsman
70007,3536.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color
Table of Contents
-----------------
I. Introduction .............................................. page 1
A. What is CCOLOR .......................................... page 1
B. This program ............................................ page 1
C. This document ........................................... page 1
II. Running the program ....................................... page 2
A. Loading through COM-AND ................................. page 2
B. Loading CCOLOR directly ................................. page 3
C. Loading CCOLOR Piggyback ................................ page 4
III. CCOLOR Display ............................................ page 5
IV. Services supported ......................................... page 6
A. PLINK IDs and handles ....................................page 7
B. GEnie IDs and handles ....................................page 7
C. SOURCE IDs and aliases (now defunct) .....................page 7
D. CIS handles ............................................. page 8
E. Delphi IDs and handles ...................................page 8
F. TBBS IDs ................................................ page 9
G. PROTOCALL IDs and handles (now defunct) ..................page 9
V. CCOLOR Commands using COM-AND .............................. page 10
VI. CCOLOR Commands Standalone ................................. page 12
VII. CCOLOR Main Menu ........................................... page 13
A. Controls ................................................ page 14
B. Settings ................................................ page 14
C. Notes ................................................... page 14
VIII. The Notes file ............................................. page 15
IX. Manual mode ................................................ page 16
X. Automatic mode ............................................. page 17
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color
Table of Contents (continued)
-----------------------------
XI. Program Configuration (Alt-S, and Alt-P) ................... page 18
A. Setup Screen (Alt-S) .................................... page 18
B. Communications Parameters (Alt-P) ....................... page 20
C. Colors (Alt-J) .......................................... page 21
XII. Program Requirements ....................................... page 22
XIII. Program and Author Information ............................ page 23
Appendices
----------
A. Switches and Parameters .................................... page 24
B. Files ...................................................... page 26
C. Note file format ........................................... page 27
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 1
I. Introduction
A. What is CCOLOR?
CCOLOR for the IBM PC is an accessory program, intended to be
used with a 'base' communications program. CCOLOR is integrated
into the comm program 'COM-AND'. However, CCOLOR may be used
with any comm program supporting a 'DOS shell' that does not
break an established comm link (that does not drop DTR).
CCOLOR, used with network conferencing services such as People-
Link's PARTY, GEnie's RTC conferencing and CompuServe's CB,
follows the conversation, and assigns different colors to each
of the speakers. The effect must be seen to be comprehended.
B. This program
CCOLOR Version 1.3 uses the CGA and EGA color adapters. It may
be used on a monochrome adapter, but, of course, most of the
effect is lost. A Microsoft Mouse is supported, if available.
CCOLOR may be copied freely and distributed to anyone for any
number of machines. The author offers CCOLOR as "shareware". If
the program is found to be useful or entertaining, registration
is required. CCOLOR will be extended and enhanced if response
warrants.
C. This document
This document describes the features of CCOLOR. It will not
attempt to describe all the features of COM-AND (which are
available within CCOLOR if used), or any other communications
program used. From time-to-time the assumption will be made
that COM-AND is used as the communications program, to high-
light the interaction between CCOLOR and COM-AND.
Please do not take it that COM-AND is the only comm program
possible to use. Refer to the documentation provided with your
favorite comm program for a full discussion of its function and
features. They won't be available in CCOLOR, however.
Appendices here will provide details for very interested readers.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 2
II. Running the program
CCOLOR is an accessory program, and may be entered in one of three
ways: (1) it may be invoked through the accessory menu of the comm
program COM-AND, (2) CCOLOR may be loaded itself (in which case it
will need to be able to load COM-AND) and (3) it may be loaded
'piggyback' (intended for use with the DOS gateway of other
communications programs. Each method is useful and will be
discussed separately.
A. Loading through COM-AND
COM-AND is invoked at the DOS prompt with the command:
------------------------------------------------------
"d>" COM-AND <options>
Where "d>" is the DOS prompt, and
<options> is (<parm> (<parm> ...))
where <parm> is either a switch or a parameter
Refer to Appendix A of the COM-AND document for a discussion
of switches and parameters.
------------------------------------------------------
Once COM-AND has been loaded, the usual sequence is to dial
a network service using COM-AND's dialing directory or script
language. When connection has been established, logon achieved,
and a conference area entered, then CCOLOR may be selected using
the F1 Accessories menu.
COM-AND defines an 'accessory' as:
o A name which is displayed in the menu (as you like)
o A subdirectory for use during the accessory (optional)
o A script file to be performed (optional)
o A program to be loaded - along with parameters (optional)
COM-AND was supplied with several accessory menu entries. You
must create a new entry for CCOLOR with the 'r' subcommand. Once
loaded, CCOLOR is an independent program, using the comm link
established by COM-AND, and also many of the COM-AND functions.
CCOLOR is 'integrated' into COM-AND.
Note that settings (echo/blank line suppression/logging etc) made
in COM-AND carry over to the accessory when it is loaded, and
settings made in the accessory carry over to COM-AND when the
accessory terminates. Alt-X terminates both COM-AND and CCOLOR.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 3
II. Running the program (continued)
B. Loading CCOLOR directly
CCOLOR may be invoked at the DOS prompt with the command:
------------------------------------------------------
"d>" CCOLOR <options>
Where "d>" is the DOS prompt, and
<options> is (<parm> (<parm> ...))
where <parm> is either a switch or a parameter (except /P)
Refer to Appendix A of this document for a full description of
switches and parameters.
------------------------------------------------------
When CCOLOR is run from the DOS prompt without the '/P' switch,
it looks for the COM-AND program on the current subdirectory (or
in the subdirectory indicated by a 'COM-AND=' environment vari-
able). CCOLOR will not run unless it can find COM-AND (unless
'/P' is specified) . CCOLOR loads COM-AND and execution proceeds
on the CRT (COM-AND side) of the program.
Again, the usual sequence is to dial a network service using
COM-AND's dialing directory or script language. When connection
has been established, logon achieved, and a conference area
entered, then switch to the gaming side with the F1 key.
Loaded this way, the F1 key simply serves as a hot key to switch
between the two sides of the program (CCOLOR and COM-AND). No
menu of additional accessories is available. All other features
of COM-AND are available, however. Again, Alt-X terminates both
COM-AND and CCOLOR.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 4
II. Running the program (continued)
C. Loading CCOLOR Piggyback
CCOLOR may be run piggyback as follows:
------------------------------------------------------
"d>" CCOLOR /P COMx <speed> <other options>
where COMx = COM1, COM2, COM3 or COM4 and
<speed> = 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600
Refer to Appendix A of this document for a full description
of other options.
------------------------------------------------------
For example:
C> CCOLOR /P COM1 2400
Used in this manner, CCOLOR 'picks-up' a comm line already
opened and in use by another program. The 'COMx' and '<speed>'
parameters are not strictly necessary; however, their use is
recommended unless you ALWAYS use the same comm port and line-
speed on all systems wherever you go.
Note that Alt-X terminates CCOLOR and simply returns you to
DOS when CCOLOR is loaded piggyback. Alt-X terminates both
CCOLOR and COM-AND when the program set is run without /P.
Once back at the DOS prompt, you must return to the comm program
you originally gatewayed - type 'EXIT' at the DOS prompt if your
gateway was originally to COMMAND.COM. Refer to the documenta-
tion provided with your comm program on the appropriate means of
returning from the DOS shell.
Don't forget to return to your comm program if you shelled to DOS
and loaded CCOLOR with /P!
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 5
III. CCOLOR Display
When the screen is painted, it is divided into several areas. The
top line carries the program version and release number, and the
Main Menu. The current operating mode (manual or automatic) is
displayed to the left of the menu. The region between the top and
bottom lines is a scrolling region for received text. A status line
(and keyboard buffer) take the last line.
CCOLOR parses every line of text received for an ID. If you are not
in the conference area of one of the supported services (PLINK,
GEnie, SOURCE, DELPHI, CIS, or TBBS), the results will be 'odd'.
In conversation, when a speaker is identified (through the ID or
handle - see following), lines received from that ID (and successive
lines) will be displayed with a foreground color selected for that
particular ID. In manual mode, you select the foreground color for
up to 16 speakers. In automatic mode, CCOLOR assigns a foreground
color to each new ID. You can review and revise automatic color
assignments and save assignments for later sessions.
CCOLOR scans received text after the ID for special words. Words
which are set off by ("), ('), (*), (_) and (<>) are highlighted in
a contrasting color. You may turn off this feature if you wish.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 6
IV. Services supported
CCOLOR is encoded to work with several network services and multi-
user systems. CCOLOR parses every incoming line for an ID.
CCOLOR's parser is 'automatic', in that you don't have to tell it
which system to parse.
The ID (or handle) parse begins after a carriage return from the
network. When an ID of a speaker is identified, the line being
received changes color. The text is displayed after the ID - and
highlights are performed as they are found. If no ID is identified
the text is displayed with the color of the last speaker. Blank
lines (extra carriage returns issued by the network) are not
displayed by CCOLOR.
The CCOLOR parser is only designed to deal with text issued within
the conversational area of one of the systems. The parser is
self-adjusting ... all of the supported formats will be taken as
conversation. [The automatic nature of the parser DOES produce some
false hits now and then. Its a tradeoff...]
The following pages describe templates for IDs and handles as dis-
played on various systems (handles are assumed names which replace
or add to an ID). I have also included some notes on each system
and its use with CCOLOR.
You may wish to skip to the next chapter - the next pages are dull.
Just one piece of advice - CCOLOR can only parse received text if
echo from the host is turned off. Turn off echo!
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 7
IV. Services supported (continued)
A. PLINK IDs and handles:
"(" <ID> ") " an initial "*" identifies handles
Example: (TARTAN) This is how a line would look on PLINK
PLINK does not report (to all in conference) when a customer
exits.
CCOLOR is best used with echo off (the system doesn't echo what
you type). You turn echo off with the command /NOECHO. The key-
board buffer (controls pull-down) allows you to see your typing
locally if you need.
B. GEnie IDs and handles:
"<" [Handle] <ID> "> "
Example: <[Scott] TARTAN> This is how a line would look on GEnie
GEnie reports to all present the exit or termination of another
customer. CCOLOR version 1.3 does not use the report.
CCOLOR is best used with echo off (the system doesn't echo what
you type). GEnie does not normally echo entered characters. If
you are echoing characters locally (alt-E) turn it off. Use the
keyboard buffer to see your typing.
C. SOURCE IDs and aliases (now defunct):
<ID/alias> ": " -or- [nn] <ID/alias> ": "
Example: [22] TARTAN: This is how a line would look on SOURCE
The SOURCE reports to all attending the exit or termination of
another customer. CCOLOR version 1.3 does not use the report.
CCOLOR is best used with echo off (the system doesn't echo what
you type). The SOURCE allows you to turn off echo by exiting the
SIG (entering command mode), setting half duplex (-> TERM -HALF)
and re-entering the SIG.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 8
IV. Services supported (continued)
D. CIS handles:
"(" <Band> , <ID> ") "
where <Band> ::= (A!B)(N!NN)","
Example: (A1,TARTAN) This is how a line would look on CIS
CIS does not report (to all in conference) when a customer exits.
CCOLOR is best used with echo off (the system doesn't echo what
you type). You turn echo off with the command /NOECHO. The key-
board buffer (controls pull-down) allows you to see your typing
locally if you need.
E. Delphi IDs and handles:
<ID> "> " where an initial "." identifies handles
Example: TARTAN> This is how a line would look on Delphi
Delphi does not report (to all in conference) when a customer
exits.
CCOLOR is best used with echo off (the system doesn't echo what
you type). I recommend requesting help from an experienced
Delphi user to do this.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 9
IV. Services supported (continued)
F. TBBS IDs:
"(" <node> ":" <ID> ") "
Example: (9: Scott McGinnis) This is how tbbs looks
TBBS does not report (to all in conference) when a customer
exits.
TBBS is still new to me; TBBS BBS's are multiuser (up to 16 lines
to a BBS), and provide a very comfortable conferencing facility.
I haven't discovered yet how to turn local echo off. CCOLOR is
best used with echo off - if there is no such facility, I am sure
one will be added, just to keep the reading easy.
G. PROTOCALL IDs and handles (now defunct):
"<" nn.nn <ID> ">"
Example: <04.21 TARTAN> This is how PROTOCALL looks
PROTOCALL reports to all attending the exit or termination of
another customer and various materializations and dematerializ-
ations. CCOLOR version 1.3 does not use the report.
CCOLOR is best used with echo off (the system doesn't echo what
you type). You toggle echo off and back on with the command /ECHO.
The keyboard buffer (controls pull-down) allows you to see your
typing locally if you need.
I am well aware that PROTOCALL is no more. However, the parser
still parses it. Who knows what'll come?
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 10
V. CCOLOR Commands using COM-AND
When CCOLOR is loaded with COM-AND the following Alt'd keys are
available:
F1 Switch between text (CRT) and color modes.
F7 Toggle transcripting.
F8 Toggle keyboard buffer chat mode.
F9 Toggle log hold (if logging is enabled).
F10 Help screen. All currently implemented commands are
summarized on this screen. Any command may be executed
directly while this screen is displayed.
Alt-F10 DOS Gateway. If there is sufficient memory available, and
if the environment variable "COMSPEC" identifies a valid
.COM or .EXE file, CCOLOR will load the program and execute
it. This is used to load a second copy of COMMAND.COM for
access to DOS while a communication session is in progress.
Ctl-End Send a Break. This sends a true 'break' signal.
Alt-A Toggle chat mode.
Alt-B Redisplay (backscreen). This backscreen function is compati-
ble with COM-AND version 2.8 and after. It is NOT compatible
with COM-AND versions prior to 2.8.
Alt-C Clear the screen.
Alt-D Dialing directory.
Alt-E Toggle echo (full/half duplex). This function is also
invoked through the dialing directory (echo on).
Alt-F File directory. A mask is required - just as DOS DIR
command.
Alt-G Toggle blank line suppression.
Alt-H Hang-up. Hang-up the phone.
Alt-I Program information. Author information. Propaganda.
Alt-L Toggle CGA/EGA modes (if you have an EGA).
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 11
V. CCOLOR Commands using COM-AND (continued)
Alt-M Define a macro for Alt-0 through Alt-9.
Note: Although this menu can be used from either COM-AND or
accessory, macros are defined through COM-AND and changes
will be made on the COM-AND side.
Alt-O Options. Set controlling flags for COM-AND.
Note: Although this menu can be used from either COM-AND or
accessory, it really only effects COM-AND settings.
Alt-P Comm Parameters. Set baud rate, parity, number of data and
stop bits for use when COM-AND is initially loaded. These
settings are overridden by run-time switches. Whatever the
current setting, the dialing directory overrides when used.
Note: Although this menu can be used from either COM-AND or
accessory, it really only effects COM-AND settings. Each
accessory has an Alt-P function as well accessible only when
the accessory is loaded with the '/P' switch.
Alt-R Redial the last number dialed. The program will redial the
last number dialed number until the function is terminated
(with ESC), or connection is made.
Alt-S Setup. Define initial program values, such as Modem initial-
ization, the Modem Hangup sequence, and file names.
Note: Although this menu can be used from either COM-AND or
accessory, it really only effects COM-AND settings. Each
accessory has an Alt-S function as well which may or may not
be accessible when COM-AND is loaded.
Alt-T Elapsed time. The time the program was loaded, and the time
the last call (Alt-C or Alt-R) was placed are displayed.
Alt-X Exit the program. The program may or may not hangup the
phone, depending on the modem. Note: COM-AND is also
terminated, no matter how you loaded CCOLOR and COM-AND.
Alt-Z Toggle parity mask. The high bit mask is used only for text
received and displayed.
Alt-0/9 Send a Macro. A string of characters defined through the
Alt-M command described above is transmitted.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 12
VI. CCOLOR Commands Standalone
When CCOLOR is loaded standalone (piggyback, /P) only the following
Alt'd keys are active:
Alt-C Toggle chat mode.
Alt-C Screen Clear. Clear the text area.
Alt-J Color. This menu allows setting of colors for menues, the
status line, and for the text area during manual mode.
Alt-L Toggle CGA/EGA modes (if you have an EGA).
Alt-S Setup. This menu allows setting a defaults used by CCOLOR.
It is also available through the 'Controls' pull-down.
Alt-P Set Comm Parms. This menu provides a way to change default
communications parameters used by CCOLOR ONLY when it is run
piggyback. It is therefore only available when CCOLOR is
run piggyback.
Alt-X Exit the program. In this case (piggyback) only CCOLOR is
terminated. You are returned to DOS.
When used in this manner, the pull-down menues are still available,
of course. Transcripting is the only function obtained through a
pull-down that is inhibited when CCOLOR is run piggyback.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 13
VII. CCOLOR Main Menu
On the top line of the display in CCOLOR there is a menu of key-
words. A keyword is selected (with the cursor keys or a mouse),
and a submenu pulled-down (with the return or right mouse button).
Submenu items are selected (again, with the cursor keys or a mouse),
and executed (with the return, space bar, or left mouse button).
Top-line menu items are selected with the Cursor right/left keys or
right and left motion with the mouse. When the cursor key is de-
pressed, the next menu item (in a circular manner) is highlighted.
The highlighted keyword is 'selected'.
A submenu is pulled-down with the Cursor-down key (or End, or PgDn,
or the left mouse button). A submenu item is selected from a pull-
down when it is highlighted by pressing the Cursor-down/up keys re-
petitively. When the Cursor key is depressed, the next submenu item
(again in a circular manner) is highlighted. The highlighted keyword
is 'selected'.
A selected submenu item is executed with a Carriage Return. That's
the key with the silly arrow. When a submenu item is executed, the
pull-down is released (it goes back up?). Hitting the Space-bar or
the left mouse button will also execute the selected item.
A pull-down is released without executing any item with any of the
following keys: ESC, Home, PgUp, or right mouse button.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 14
VII. CCOLOR Main Menu (continued)
A. Controls
The 'Controls' pulldown allows you to select certain
control functions. Controls are:
. You may playback (and view) a saved conference
. Transcripting may be turned on and off (if you
loaded CCOLOR with COM-AND).
. Turn keyboard display on and off.
. Turn transcript hold on and off.
. Invoke CCOLOR's Setup menu (Alt-S invokes COM-AND's
Setup menu if COM-AND is loaded).
. Invoke CCOLOR's Color menu (Alt-J invokes COM-AND's
Color menu if COM-AND is loaded).
B. Settings
The 'Settings' pulldown allows you change program settings:
. Set auto colors (you may not want all possible colors used
... you may select the colors applied in automatic mode)
. Set manual mode
. Set automatic mode
C. Notes
The 'Notes' pulldown allows you to:
. Review (and edit) IDs seen by the automatic parser
. Save your current manual settings
. Save your current automatic ID assignments
. Load a new notes file.
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 15
VIII. The Notes file
CCOLOR tries to load a 'Notes' file when CCOLOR is loaded. The
Notes file name is set though the Defaults menu (Use Controls pull-
down, or if piggyback, Alt-S). The Notes file name may also be set
with the /F option at run-time (see appendix A).
The notes file is used to save manual and automatic assignments from
use to use. CCOLOR automatically loads the Notes file when CCOLOR
is loaded. CCOLOR only saves settings to the notes file when
explicitly directed to do so (use the Notes pulldown).
The manual mode of operation allows up to 16 IDs to be identified
(with the color you select for that ID). The automatic mode allows
up to 500 IDs to be preserved across sessions.
Users of multiple systems will find the /F switch convenient. Each
system can have its own Notes file, e.g. PLINK.NOT, GENIE.NOT, and
so on. When CCOLOR is loaded, the particular notes file is
specified with the /F switch, e.g.
d> CCOLOR /FPLINK.NOT
d> CCOLOR /FGENIE.NOT
and so on...
Version 1.3: 910724
CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 16
IX. Manual mode
CCOLOR defaults automatic mode when it is loaded (unless you turn
off automatic color assignment through the defaults menu or the /M
switch). Select manual mode from the 'Settings' pulldown, or
through the defaults menu (Alt-S).
In manual mode, all received text is displayed using the foreground
color specified in the Colors menu (Alt-J), except for IDs listed in
the manual mode table. Text from the selected IDs is displayed in a
selected color. When you select manual mode from the 'Settings'
pulldown, the manual mode table of IDs is presented for editing.
Editing the table consists of specifying IDs and selecting colors
for each ID. You may delete an ID from the table simply by entering
a blank ID. You may clear the entire table with one of the menu
selections.
The current Manual mode table is saved to the Notes file for another
session's use with the 'Save Manual settings' of the 'Notes' pull-
down. The Manual mode table is initialized from the notes file
specified when CCOLOR was loaded (specified either through the
Defaults menu of the /F switch).
When CCOLOR is loaded with COM-AND, you have the use of a backscreen
function (Alt-B). The backscreen is comprised of all text received
by COM-AND up to the buffer size set through COM-AND's Defaults menu
(64K). [Even text received before CCOLOR was loaded is accessible
to CCOLOR, but saved as it was displayed... not highlighted by the
CCOLOR function.]
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X. Automatic mode
CCOLOR defaults automatic mode when it is loaded (unless you turn
off automatic color assignment through the defaults menu or the /M
switch). Automatic modes and Manual modes are also selected from
the 'Settings' pulldown.
In automatic mode, all received text is parsed for an ID. Colors
are assigned to each new ID recognized. Text is displayed in the
selected color. The palette of colors used in automatic mode can be
set through the 'Settings' pulldown.
The list of IDs and colors is displayed through the 'Notes' pull-
down. The list may be edited through the same function. Pages of
the list - 16 IDs at a time - are displayed. The INS key begins the
process of editing. Highlight an ID from the page with the cursor
down key (or INS key). Select the ID with the enter key (the broken
arrow). You may set the color of the ID, or delete it at this
point.
The current Automatic mode table is saved to the Notes file for
another session's use with the 'Save Auto settings' of the 'Notes'
pulldown. The Automatic mode table is initialized from the notes
file specified when CCOLOR was loaded (specified either through the
Defaults menu of the /F switch).
When CCOLOR is loaded with COM-AND, you have the use of a backscreen
function (Alt-B). The backscreen is comprised of all text received
by COM-AND up to the buffer size set through COM-AND's Defaults menu
(64K). [Even text received before CCOLOR was loaded is accessible
to CCOLOR. Text received prior to CCOLOR is not highlighted.]
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XI. Program Configuration (Alt-S, and Alt-P)
A. Setup Screen (Alt-S)
1. Files
. Default Notes file
When you save a position, you will be asked for a file name.
The file name specified here is used if you enter a blank
save file name to this query.
. Default Log
This file name will be used when you request transcripting
and enter a blank in response to the log file name query.
2. Timings and Values
. Break delay
As noted above, the break delay is controlled through the
Millisecond loop value. This value "break delay"
specifies the number of "milliseconds" the comm line is
held when a break is issued (Cntl-END).
3. Flags
. Use BIOS for screen saves
CCOLOR executes with alpha screen, so it can use BIOS
routines for screen saves. BIOS is slower (menues pop-up
and drop more slowly) than the default method, but some
machines and some operating environments will require
that you set this on (use /C in the run command).
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XI. Program Configuration (continued)
A. Setup Screen (Alt-S) (continued)
3. Flags (continued)
. Automatic assignment
CCOLOR loads in automatic mode unless you turn it off with
this flag. When this flag is off, CCOLOR is loaded in
manual mode.
. Highlight special words
CCOLOR will scan received text for delimited words, and high-
light them is a contrasting color. You may turn this feature
(or back on) here.
. Initial advert
Turn off the advert after you've seen it. Just before you
register... This only effects standalone usage.
. Chat window
This setting allows the chat window to be enabled whenever
CCOLOR is run.
. Keyboard buffer
This setting allows the keyboard buffer to be enabled when-
ever CCOLOR is run.
. Exit Query
Some people disdain the query "do you really and truly mean
it" when they type Alt-X. Some feel it mandatory. CCOLOR
is distributed with exit query disabled. You may enable it,
if you're so inclined. This only effects standalone usage.
4. Save
You may change values for one execution of CCOLOR, or you
may change them for all subsequent executions of CCOLOR. If
you save values, the values you've saved will be used the
next time you run CCOLOR.
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XI. Program Configuration (continued)
B. Communications Parameters (Alt-P)
1. Rate + Parity + Data bits + Stop Bits
Baud rate, parity, number of data bits and number of stop bits
are specified in combination through the first 10 selections
on the Alt-P window. These selections are the only way you
may specify baud rate. Other parameters (parity, data bits,
and stop bits) may be set individually (below).
Do not change the current setting after you've connected to a
service. Make your setting here before you use CCOLOR
on-line.
2. Parity, Data bits and Stop bits
Individual settings for parity, number of data bits and number
of stop bits comprise the next 7 items of this menu. You also
set these values when you create a dialing directory entry.
Again - do not change the current setting after you've
connected to a service. The settings on this screen are
effective only when CCOLOR is run standalone. Changing a
setting here could disconnect you.
3. COM ports
The last four items on this menu are the candidates for COM
ports. Select the appropriate port for your modem. This item
is usually selected once, and then left alone.
4. Save
You save the current settings for the next execution of CCOLOR
through the "Save" selection. Settings are saved to disk.
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XI. Program Configuration (continued)
C. Colors (Alt-J)
You may set foreground and background colors for
(1) the CRT text area (in manual mode),
(2) the status line, and
(3) the main menu and important menus (queries are set to
black on white for contrast).
The background color for the table is may not be changed.
The color names are those used in the IBM Technical reference;
if you have different names for some of the color values, I
apologize. My wife and I have argued for years over 'beige'.
Like other option menus, you can experiment with settings.
Unless you save your settings, they are lost when the program
terminates.
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XII. Program Requirements
This program can only function on an IBM PC or DOS compatible
machine.
CCOLOR supports CGA, EGA. It may be used with an MDA or Hercules
monitor, with a considerable loss of functionality. CCOLOR uses a
Microsoft Mouse if one is available (not well, but it'll certainly
get better).
CCOLOR disk I/O is done through the 'Handle' oriented I/O routines
added to DOS 2.0. Therefore DOS 2.0 is a minimum requirement.
CCOLOR (version 1.3) requires 81K for itself. So you need 128.
To take advantage of the DOS Gateway (use another comm program) or
to use COM-AND, you'll need 384K.
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XIII. Program and Author Information
This program was written using Microsoft Macro-Assembler. The
author likes assembler. Assembly language is an entirely appro-
priate vehicle for some of the program, and a not-inappropriate
vehicle for the rest of it. Everything, in moderation...
The author of this program is R. Scott McGinnis of Chicago,
Illinois. PLINK and GEnie ID: TARTAN. Comment and suggestions
(and criticism in moderation) are welcomed:
CABER Software
R. (Scott) McGinnis
P.O. Box 3607 Mdse Mart
Chicago, IL 60654-0607
I thank my wife Elizabeth - I pitched this idea to her, and we both
got so excited I coded up a demonstration the next day. I've been
using it addictedly since then. She supported me literally and
figuratively in this effort. Without her love and goodwill I'd be
pretty sour by now.
This program (Version 1.3) may be distributed freely with the caveat
that the Author information displayed at program termination is not
removed. If the program is found entertaining or useful, a regis-
tration of $50.00 is required. Should response warrant it, I will
continue to develop and support this product.
Most of the hardware names and software names in this document are
trademarks or trade names of specific manufacturers.
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A. Switches and parameters
Program Switches:
/C 'Compatible': BIOS is used for screen saves/restores, as required
by certain machines and certain operating environments.
/E 'EGA': An EGA, if available will be used for the display of a
43 line screen. The size of text is reduced, but for people
who like to talk, its a great thing.
/F 'File': You may specify a Notes file (other than the Defaults
menu specification) with the /F switch followed by a valid file
name. The name is limited to 26 characters in length.
/M 'Manual mode': CCOLOR defaults to automatic mode when it is
loaded. This flag sets manual mode at run-time.
/P 'Piggyback': CCOLOR will open the COM port in such a manner as
to retain another program's already opened line. When CCOLOR is
exited, the previous state is restored. This is for use with
other communications programs having a DOS Gateway (e.g.
PROCOMM).
/X 'Debug mode': This switch enables certain resident debugging
keys. I do not recommend you use it.
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A. Switches and Parameters (continued)
Program parameters:
COM1 CCOLOR uses the COM1 port
COM2 CCOLOR uses the COM2 port
COM3 CCOLOR uses the COM3 port
COM4 CCOLOR uses the COM4 port
300 CCOLOR uses port at 300 baud
1200 CCOLOR uses port at 1200 baud
2400 CCOLOR uses port at 2400 baud
4800 CCOLOR uses port at 4800 baud
9600 CCOLOR uses port at 9600 baud
EVEN CCOLOR uses port with even parity
ODD CCOLOR uses port with odd parity
NONE CCOLOR uses port with no parity
DATA7 CCOLOR transmits/receives 7 data bits
DATA8 CCOLOR transmits/receives 8 data bits
STOP1 CCOLOR uses and expects 1 stop bit
STOP2 CCOLOR uses and expects 2 stop bits
Program switches require no delimiters. Parameters when contiguous
must be preceded by a blank. For example:
A> CCOLOR 1200 Run the program for 1200 baud communications
A> CCOLOR /P1200 Piggyback, 1200 baud
A> CCOLOR /P 1200 Piggyback, 1200 baud
Program defaults are:
A> CCOLOR COM2 300 EVEN DATA7 STOP1
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B. Files
Program files: CCOLOR expects the following files on the default
drive (and subdirectory)
CCOLOR.DFT Parameter save area (Alt-S, Alt-J and Alt-P)
CCOLOR will create this file if it is not found. CCOLOR will auto-
matically update the .DFT file if the program version number is
different from the .DFT file version number. When CCOLOR is loaded,
the old file format will be loaded. A new file will then be created
to replace the old file.
When a new major (e.g. 1.0, 2.0, ...) is released or when you move
CCOLOR from one machine to another the previous .DFT file probably
should be purged (and recreated by CCOLOR).
CCOLOR also uses (if available) the following files:
CCOLOR.NOT Default Notes file (manual and automatic settings)
CCOLOR.LOG Default log file name
Each of these file names may be changed through the ALT-S (Setup)
Menu. CCOLOR currently implements the rule for file names: If the
given file name carries a drive spec (i.e. C:) or path (sub-
directory), the name is taken 'as is'. If neither condition holds,
the default drive and subdirectory are added to the file name.
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CCOLOR: IBM PC Conference Color Page 27
C. Save file structure:
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+---//
! 'C' ! 'C' ! 'O' ! 'L' ! 'O' ! 'R' ! <ver-rev> ! ...
+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+---//
8 ... 22
//--+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+----/ /----+-----+---//
! Internal file pointers (manual/automatic sections) ! ...
//--+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+----/ /----+-----+---//
22 ... 358
//--+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+---//
! Manual mode table ! ...
//--+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+---//
358 360 ... 11860
//--+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+---//
! Auto_Len ! Automatic mode table ! ...
//--+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+-----+---//
<Ver-rev> Binary, Version * 256 + Revision
Auto_Len Size of Auto table used
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