************************************************************** "T H E O F F I C I A L B B S F A Q" A Complete Reference Guide To Setup An Online Service BBS, Internet Service provider (ISP) or Intranet Edition no. 7 April 1997 Copyright (C) 1994-1997 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Author/Editor - CLAIRE WALTERS E-MAIL: Clairew@tiac.net bbsfaq@sysopworld.com >>>>>>>> T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S <<<<<<<<< ************************************************************** CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION TO THE BBS FAQ ************************************************************** 1.1 - INTRODUCTION 1.2 - LEGAL NOTICES 1.3 - WHERE CAN I DOWNLOAD THE BBS FAQ? 1.4 - SIDEBAR NOTES FROM THE AUTHOR 1.5 - NAVIGATING THROUGH THIS DOCUMENT ************************************************************** CHAPTER 2 PC COMMERCIAL BBS SOFTWARE ************************************************************** 2.1 - DOS BASED BBS SOFTWARE 2.2 - HOST PROGRAMS FOR WINDOWS ************************************************************** CHAPTER 3 PC SHAREWARE/FREEWARE BBS SOFTWARE ************************************************************** 3.1 - DOS BBS SOFTWARE (shareware/Freeware) 3.2 - OPEN YOUR WINDOWS TO THE WORLD! ************************************************************** CHAPTER 4 BBSing WITH OS/2 ************************************************************** 4.1 - OS/2 Q&A 4.2 - OS/2 SHAREWARE/FREEWARE BBS SOFTWARE 4.3 - OS/2 COMMERCIAL BBS SOFTWARE ************************************************************** CHAPTER 5 PC HARDWARE ************************************************************** 5.1 - PC HARDWARE 5.2 - NETWORKING YOUR PC BBS 5.3 - CD-ROMS & YOUR PC BBS ************************************************************** CHAPTER 6 ADD-ONS AND UTILITIES FOR PC BBSES ************************************************************** 6.1 - BBS ADD-ONS/UTILITIES 6.2 - FILE CHECKING PROGRAMS 6.3 - QWK MAIL 6.4 - BBS DOORS 6.5 - ANSII & the PC BBS ************************************************************** CHAPTER 7 SYSOPING WITH MACINTOSH/APPLE *************************************************************** 7.1 - What hardware is needed to run a BBS on a Macintosh? 7.2 - SETTING UP THE PHONE LINES WITH A MACINTOSH 7.3 - MODEMS & THE MACINTOSH BBS 7.4 - Commercial BBS software for the Macintosh 7.5 - Text based, Shareware & Keyware Macintosh BBS software 7.6 - The Macintosh and Public Networks ************************************************************** CHAPTER 8 UNIX AT YOUR SERVICE ************************************************************** 8.1 - UNIX Q&A 8.2 - UNIX SHAREWARE/FREEWARE BBS SOFTWARE 8.3 - COMMERCIAL UNIX BBS SOFTWARE 8.4 - UNIX HARDWARE ************************************************************** CHAPTER 9 BBSING WITH AMIGA ************************************************************** 9.1 - AMIGA COMMERCIAL BBS SOFTWARE 9.2 - AMIGA SHAREWARE/FREEWARE BBS SOFTWARE 9.3 - AMIGA HARDWARE -WHAT IS THE BASIC HARDWARE I WOULD NEED TO SETUP AN AMIGA BBS? ************************************************************** CHAPTER 10 SYSOPS SURFING THE INTERNET HIGHWAY ************************************************************** 10.1 - CONNECTING YOUR ONLINE SERVICE TO THE INTERNET 10.2 - INTERNET PROVIDERS 10.3 - SATELITE SERVICES 10.4 - CONNECTING YOUR ONLINE SERVICE TO THE WEB 10.5 - WEB SERVER SOFTWARE 10.6 - SERVER SOFTWARE ************************************************************** CHAPTER 11 - NET IT UP ************************************************************** 11.1 - GETTING YOUR BBS ON AN ECHO NETWORK ************************************************************** CHAPTER 12 SETTING UP FILE LIBRARIES ************************************************************** 12.1 - SHAREWARE VENDORS 12.2 - ENCOURAGING YOUR USERS TO UPLOAD ************************************************************** CHAPTER 13 LEGAL ISSUES FACING THE BBS SYSOP ************************************************************** 13.1 - INTRODUCTION 13.2 - THE LEGAL RISKS 13.3 - THE MAJOR ISSUES AND SOME SUGGESTIONS 13.4 - Incorporation 13.5 - Closing Thoughts and Some Legal Resources 13.6 - The Internet Law Journal ************************************************************** CHAPTER 14 MISC RESOURCES AND TIPS FOR SYSOPS *************************************************************** 14.1 - SO YOU WANT TO BE A SYSOP? 14.2 - HOW MUCH DO I CHARGE MY USERS? 14.3 - CAN I MAKE MONEY RUNNING AN ONLINE SERVICE? 14.4 - BUILDING YOUR ONLINE COMMUNITY. 14.5 - BOOKS & OTHER SOURCES FOR SYSOPS 14.6 - CARRIER DETECTED 14.7 - TAKIN' A SPIN THRU THE CD-ROM SHOWROOM 14.8 - CLIENT SOFTWARE - HELPING YOUR USERS SIGN-ON ************************************************************** CHAPTER 15 BUILDING AN INTRANET ************************************************************** 15.1 - What is an Intranet? 15.2 - Internet vs Intranet 15.3 - Intranet resources on the World Wide Web ************************************************************** I - GLOSSARY II - SPONSORS INDEX III - INDEX ************************************************************** CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION TO THE BBS FAQ ************************************************************** =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1.1 - INTRODUCTION =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [1.1.1] - Why was The Official BBS FAQ written? August 29th, 1994 Every day, I'd sign-on to local BBSes to download my e-mail and review the Usenet newsgroups. After reading alt.bbs for a few months, I noticed the same questions being asked over and over again. One day, I read a message asking if there was a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) for the alt.bbs newsgroups. If not, the poster asked if someone would be willing to write one. The idea appealed to me. I've never run a BBS of my own; however, I've signed-on a wide variety of bulletin board services all over the United States. I've helped sysops setup their boards plus I've done computer tech support. Additionally, as a consultant and writer, I was particularly attracted to the idea of assisting computer users in their enjoyment of BBSing. From all of this combined experience, I decided to develop the much-needed FAQ. To begin the project, I posted a message in March of 1994 to alt.bbs newsgroups, calling for people to contribute to the BBS FAQ. The mail started flowing-in immediately and continued for weeks. The overall response was great! All sorts of people were willing to offer their time and knowledge to the long-awaited FAQ. I created a Table of Contents based on my own knowledge and on the questions/suggestions I saw in the newsgroups. I then gathered information from various sources to build the comprehensive guide that follows. The end-product is intended to aid those who use bulletin boards as well as to assist those who run them or want to setup BBSes of their own. The Official BBS FAQ was built BY the people of the Net, FOR the people of the Net. Many thanks to all who contributed. Regards, Claire Walters ------------------------------------------------------------------ [1.1.2] - ABOUT THE AUTHOR/EDITOR Claire Walters, D.B.A Windsorware Author/Editor: "The Official BBS FAQ" Computer Consultant: Specializing in, not limited to; freelance Writer, web editor/designer, software documentation & custom Windows help files e-mail: clairew@tiac.net clairew@pluto.njcc.com WindsorWare's web site: http://pluto.njcc.com/~clairew/ ------------------- About WindsorWare ------------------- Nov. 1995 Hi everyone! My name is Claire Walters and I want to take a few minutes to tell you about myself and WindsorWare. October 1995 I moved to a town 20 minutes north of Boston, MA. Prior to this I lived in the Princeton area of New Jersey. Approximately 4 years ago, I did tech support for an online service. After that I started doing freelance computer work. Most of the work I did was trouble shooting for home users, small offices, installing software, setting up new systems, tutoring & assisted in setting up several BBSes. Writing has always been second nature to me which led to my interest in writing Windows help files. Up to date, I have a few help files distributed with shareware and wrote help files for custom applications used in offices. WindsorWare has been established for a little over 3 years. Today, I specialize in writing Windows help files, software documentation, web pages and designing Windows applications. When I'm not sitting in front of the computer I try to enjoy life to the fullest! I have a 13 year old son (Ryan) who I enjoy spending time with. I have many inetrests - music, sports, traveling, dancing, good food, walks along the ocean, photography, spending time with my friends and being with that special person in my life. Hope you learned a little about WindsorWare. Now it's time to go on and learn how to setup an online service! Enjoy! ------------------------ Products by WindsorWare ------------------------ JANUARY 1996 ANNOUNCEMENT! WindsorWare releases IAK - Internet Address Keeper (c) IAK beta version 1.4 Internet Address Keeper (c) by, Claire Walters d.b.a WindsorWare ----------------------------------- * WHAT IS IAK? IAK was created for users who logon to multiple BBSes/online services to have one simple address book. IAK can work with ANY Microsoft Windows application. Most client software from online services such as; America Online, Compuserve and even a Unix shell account does not provide an address book as simple and yet powerful as IAK. This application will eliminate the need to use multiple address books that are provided with the client software from these online services. IAK is not only an address keeper. Create lists to store URLS to your favorite World Wide Web pages, FTP or telnet sites! Use the handy comments field for phone numbers, notes, etc.. IAK is available via ftp at: ftp.njcc.com - directory: pub/bbsfaq/ WWW: http://pluto.njcc.com/~clairew/wwprod.html ------------------------------------------------------------------- [1.1.3] - CREDITS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Special thanks goes to my family, Nancy T. & Sherri R. - Brian Kramer Owner/Systems Administrator - bjkramer@pluto.njcc.com New Jersey Computer Connection Home of The Official BBS FAQ Public Access Unix Site - pluto.njcc.com Voice: 609-896-2799 - Fax: 609-896-2994 - Dialups: 609-896-3191 Dialup or Telnet to njcc.com and log in as, guest for more information. WWW: http://www.njcc.com/ - Danny Klopfer. Without Danny the BBS FAQ web site would not be possible. Thank you Danny for giving the BBS FAQ a home on the web! :) Unirom 664-A Freeman Lane Suite 449 Grass Valley, CA 95949 USA 1.916.477.8392 1-800-862-2457 (USA ONLY) Fax: 1.916.477.8390 Email: sales@unirom.com http://www.unirom.com/cdroms/ CHIEF HTML EDITOR ------------------ Troy Davis BlackCat Communications http://www.blackcat.net/ MAC EDITOR ------------ Kathy Styles CONTRIBUTORS/WRITERS --------------------- Since March of '94 when I called for writers to help me gather info for the BBS FAQ I received a wonderful response. Now, it's a year since the birth of the FAQ and several others have offered there time to supply info that is now included in the FAQ. Without the help of all the writers the BBS FAQ would not have been possible. Originally there were approximately 20 writers, since then the number has grown. I'd like to express my special thanks to the original writers who helped me build the foundation to this document and to everyone who continue's to contribute which makes it possible for me to maintain the FAQ. Best Regards, Claire Walters -------------------------------------------------------------------- [1.1.4] - THE ADVISORY BOARD As of March 1996 I have invited a few selected industry leaders in the online world to join me in the continued development of the BBS FAQ. CHAIR OF THE BOARD: * Claire Walters WindsorWare Consulting P.O Box 32 Swampscott, MA 01907 HONORARY MEMBER: Dave McClure Executive Director Assn of Online Professionals - info@aop.org (703) 924-9692 (703) 924-9594 Fax (703) 264-1750 BBS Telnet aop.org http://www.aop.org/ MEMBERS: Andre Durand andre@durand.com Durand Communications, Inc. 147 Castilian Drive Santa Barbara, CA 93117 (805) 961-8700 voice, (805) 961-8701 fax http://www.durand.com/ ----------------------- AFA Karen - afakaren@aol.com business consultant Assistant Forum Leader on MCM Pres. of the Online Services SIG of AOP :D AOL: keyword: BBS ====================================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1.2 - LEGAL NOTICES =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [1.2.1] - DISCLAIMERS The BBS FAQ is announced periodically in the following newsgroups; alt.bbs alt.bbs.allsysop alt.allsysop alt.bbs.misc comp.bbs.misc It is intended for those who want to start a BBS/Online service or for those sysops already running a BBS who may be seeking further information. All information in this article is believed to be correct at the time of writing. However, please recognize that this is an evolving document and that the information that follows may contain inaccuracies. Please direct suggestions for improvement or corrections to the editor/author at, clairew@tiac.net The editor/author is not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned herein. Some of the text included in this document is descriptions written by the software authors/companies themselves. I (Claire Walters) does not express any opinions or favoritism towards any sofware mentioned in the BBS FAQ. ------------------------------------------------------------------ [1.2.2] COPYRIGHT NOTICE "The Official BBS FAQ" is Copyright 1994-1997, by Claire Walters. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED You are granted the following rights: I. To make copies of this work in original form, so long as (a) The copies are exact and complete. (b) The copies include the copyright notice and these paragraphs in their entirety. (c) The copies give obvious credit to the author, Claire Walters. (d) The copies are in electronic form only. II. To distribute this work, or copies made under the provisions above, so long as, (a) this is the original work and not a derivative form. (b) you do not charge a fee for copying or for distribution. (c) you ensure that the distributed form includes the copyright notice, this paragraph, the disclaimer of warranty in their entirety and credit to the author. (Claire Walters) (d) the distributed form is not in an electronic magazine or within computer software (prior explicit permission may be obtained from Claire Walters) (e) the distributed form is the NEWEST version of the article to the best of the knowledge of the distributor. (f) the distributed form is electronic. You may NOT distribute this work by any non-electronic media, including but not limited to books, newsletters, magazines, manuals, catalogs, and speech. You may not distribute this work in electronic magazines, CD-ROMS or within computer software without prior written explicit permission. These rights are temporary and revocable upon written, oral, or other notice by Claire Walters. This copyright notice shall be governed by the laws of the state of Massachusetts. If you would like additional rights beyond those granted above, write to the author (Claire Walters) at, Clairew@tiac.net --------------------------------------------------------------------- [1.2.3] - TRADEMARK INFORMATION The software & products mentioned in this FAQ is the properties and trademark of their respective owners. ====================================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1.3 - WHERE CAN I DOWNLOAD THE BBS FAQ? -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= A new release of "The Official BBS FAQ" will be announced periodically in the following newsgroups: alt.bbs alt.bbs.allsysop alt.allsysop alt.bbs.misc comp.bbs.misc OTHER ONLINE SERVICES * America Online - PC Telecom forum (keyword: PTC) - BBS Corner (keyword: BBS) * Compuserve ------------------------------------------------------------------ [1.3.1] - FTP SITE Download the ASCII version via the following FTP sites. * FTP.NJCC.COM Directory: /pub/bbsfaq/ * ftp://members.aol.com/windsrware/bbsfaq.zip ------------------------------------------------------------------- [1.3.2] - The BBS FAQ via World Wide Web THE OFFICIAL BBS FAQ WEB SITE Browse the bbs faq, bbs faq dedicated message boards and more! http://www.sysopworld.com/bbsfaq/ * America Online PC Telecom Forum. (AOL Keyword: PTC) Go to "BBS Bonanza" area BBS Corner: (AOL keyword: BBS) Download the ASCII version via WWW at; http://www.blackcatdesign.com/bbsfaq.zip http://members.aol.com/windsrware/bbsfaq.zip =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--= 1.4 - SIDEBAR NOTES FROM THE AUTHOR =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--= [1.4.1] - THE EDITORS CORNER UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [1.4.2] - Comments, Corrections, Deletions or Additions The BBS FAQ is constantly being maintained. This is a large task to keep up with since the online industry is rapidly changing & growing. To the best of my knowledge the info provided is correct. Due to this rapid process of changes in the industry, we all know FTP, Web sites & BBSes go down & pop-up each day, companies change their contact info, new BBS software being developed each day, etc.. Any comments, corrections, deletions or additions for this FAQ please send e-mail to the author/editor, Claire Walters - WindsorWare at: bbsfaq@sysopworld.com =============================================================== [1.4.3] - WHAT'S NEW IN THIS EDITION? Changes since Edition no. 4 - 11/95 ------------------------------------- - More user friendly for easier navigation - Index, glossary and sponsors index has been added. - Web server software section This addition will be listing web server software - Several existing software listings have been updated. - New discussion about building an Intranet Changes Since Edition no. 3 ------------------------------ - Additons to section 14.5. Quick reference guides listing, URLS, E-mail addresses & FTP sites useful for sysops. - New sections added to the FAQ have "(NEW)" noted next to the topic in the table of contents. - 9.4 - INTERNET AMIGA STYLE. No info was provided for this section & has been removed. - Many more additions! Changes since Edition no. 2 (2-23-95) --------------------------------------- - Access the BBS FAQ via WWW. See section 1.5.2 - Mindwire, FirstClass & several other software descriptions added. Changes since Edition no. 1 (8-29-94) ---------------------------------------- - VERY IMPORTANT! The FTP site in which the BBSFAQ is archived has been changed. Please note the new site is: FTP.NJCC.COM - Many cosmetic changes for easier navigation - Mac section has been updated - Several descriptions added in the PC DOS shareware section =============================================================== [1.4.4] - DONATIONS As of March 1996 I'm asking for donations for the BBS FAQ. Anyone who downloads the BBS FAQ and finds it useful please make a donation. I'll continue to maintain and release the FAQ to the alt.*.bbs newsgroups. Any donations would be greatly appreciated. Check or money order can be made payable to: Claire Walters or WindsorWare WindsorWare P.O Box 32 Swampscott, MA 01907-0032 =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 1.5 - NAVIGATING THROUGH THIS DOCUMENT =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [1.5.1] - Tips and hints Navigating the ASCII version of the BBS FAQ. I'm sure you want to get started as soon as possible with your research for setting up a BBS/Online service or Intranet. The BBS FAQ is a large document and continues to grow with the ever changing online industry. This document is a large reference guide to help those decide on and give ideas for, software, hardware, resources, and other misc. information when setting up an online service. As the FAQ continues to grow I have focused on it being as user-friendly as possible. Since Edition no. 5 I added an index. With the addition of the index this trimmed down the table of contents. The table of contents shows only the main topics and the index includes all the sub-topics within. To view all the sub-topics included in the whole document I suggest going directly to the index. Once you find a particular topic you'd like to read, using the "find" feature in the wordprocessor your using to view the BBS FAQ, type the name or number of the topic. Another feature I have added is a TOPICS listing to each section. The topics listing of all the main headings for the particular article. (Example below) TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * Company profile * Features of the product * Pricing information * Company contacts * Order form(s) From this listing you view what is included for this particular section and jump to a particular heading within the article using "search". Hope this helps. Enjoy! ************************************************************** CHAPTER 2 - PC COMMERCIAL BBS SOFTWARE ************************************************************** =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 2.1 - DOS BASED BBS SOFTWARE =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [2.1.01] - Worldgroup Software TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * Galacticomm, Inc. - Company Profile * Applications for Your Web Site * Entertainment Collection for Worldgroup * Spice Up Your Worldgroup Chat Sessions * Online Interaction For Your Users * A Place Where Friends Meet * Entertainment Teleconference General Features * Game Modules General Features * Requirements * Fax/Online for Worldgroup * An Outgoing Fax Service For Your Organization * Easy Management and Viewing of Information * Configure Your System For Exceptional Security and Accounting * General Features * Security Features * Requirements * Omni-Mall for Worldgroup * Online Ordering and Real-Time Credit-Card Verification * Flexible and Easy Configuration * Market and Sell Your Products Online * General Features * Security Features * Requirements * Hardware Options for Worldgroup * The GalactiBox * The G-Box is not just an Expansion Chassis * GalactiBoard * Easy to Configure * GalactiBox Features * Intelligent Serial Kit for Worldgroup * Host Controller Boards * Port Modules * Easily integrates with Worldgroup * Everything is included * SuperSerial XP Host Controllers Specifications * Worldgroup Developer's Kit * An open platform for developing online applications * General Architecture * Terminal-Mode Modules * Client Apps * Server Agents * Development Requirements * Development Kit Features * Security Mechanisms * The secure solution for remote access * A firewall to your LAN * Password protection * Five models of Worldgroup * Locks and Keys * Assigning Locks and Keys * Classes of users * Security you can trust * Direct Pricing Information ----------------------------------- * Galacticomm, Inc. - Company profile ------------------------------------ Company: 4101 SW 47th Avenue, Suite 101, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33314 Corporate Headquarters: (954) 583-5990 Sales: (800) 328-1128 Technical Support: (954) 321-2404 Fax: (954) 583-7846 Online Service: (954) 583-7808 URL: http://www.gcomm.com Incorporated: July 1985 Privately held; 46 employees Board of Directors: Timothy J. Stryker, Chairman of the Board Scott J. Brinker, Robert N. Stein Company Management: Scott J. Brinker, President/CEO Michael Hunt, Executive Vice President Chris Robert, Vice President of Engineering Richard Skurnick, Plant Manager and Senior Engineer Sheri Robert, Director of New Media Marketing Don Adler, Director of ISV Relations Mission Statement: To do really cool things in the field of computerized communications, and make a buck at it. Overview: Developer of multiuser communications software and hardware for workgroup, Internet and online applications. Markets: Companies looking to set up Web sites, private online services and workgroup environments over the Internet or Intranet. Customers include small businesses, Fortune 500 companies, educational institutions and government agencies. Historical Progress: 1996 -- Introduced Worldgroup v2.0 with the Worldgroup Plug-in for Netscape. Enables users to launch client/server apps directly over the Web. 1995 -- Introduced Worldgroup, Galacticomm's second generation of online interactive software. Worldgroup offers a client/server architecture with a Windows-based multimedia interface. Introduced Worldgroup Internet Server, an all-in-one solution for Web, Internet and online applications. Introduced Internet Connectivity Option (ICO) v2.0 with real-time e-mail and messaging over the Internet, improved stack, pass-through SLIP/CSLIP/PPP, SMTP and NNTP. 1994 -- The Major BBS v6.25 added new open architecture at connectivity level. Introduced ICO v1.0, offering built-in TCP/IP and support for telnet, ftp, and Web server. Also introduced Intelligent Serial Kit (ISK) harnessing Equinox Systems, Inc.'s intelligent multiport hardware for increased I/O performance with support for up to 256 simultaneous users on a single PC. 1993 -- Launched The Major BBS v6.1 with enhanced Windows support and multilingual/ multiprotocol architecture for online graphics capability. 1992 -- Major architectural shift with The Major BBS v6.0. No longer needed source code to integrate add-ons, and offered native protected-mode operation. 1991 -- Released The Major BBS v5.3 with Novell NetWare LAN support. Acquired Galactic Innovations, a third-party development firm led by Scott Brinker. Now offered The Major Database, Dial-Out, Kyrandia and more. 1990 -- The Major BBS v5.2 offered BBSETUP for automatic hardware detection and configuration, and optional protected-mode support. Also manufactured the GalactiBoard, an 8-port serial card with 16550 UARTs. 1989 -- The Major BBS v5.07 unveiled new extended editions (File Library, MenuMan, Entertainment, and Shopping Mall), direct-connect support for X.25 packet-switching networking. 1988 -- The Major BBS v5.0 released. Also developed the GalactiBox (16-slot COM 1-4 expansion chassis). 1987 -- First commercial sale of The Major BBS v4.0. Third-party developers began writing add-on utilities and games. 1986 -- Developed Model 16 (16 modem modules on one card) and Galacticomm Software Breakthrough Library (engineer-oriented toolkit for multiuser applications). Wrote The Major BBS v1.0 as an in-house demo application for the Model 16. Version 2.0 released as shareware. 1985 -- Initially formed to run a network of multiuser game systems. Products: Worldgroup -- online system software for Windows/DOS platforms. Includes the Worldgroup Plug-in for Netscape. License for eight simultaneous users included. System can be expanded with User Six-Packs to support up to 256 simultaneous users. Worldgroup Internet Server -- Bundled product combining Worldgroup, the Advanced Internet Option, Dial-Out and Dial-Up Options. License for 20 simultaneous users included. Worldgroup Enterprise Server -- Bundled product combining Worldgroup, the Advanced Internet Option, Omni-Mall, Novell Option, Dial-Out and Dial-Up Options. License for 128 simultaneous users included. Connectivity Options -- User Six-Pack, X.25 Software Option, Advanced Internet Option, Dial-Out Add-on, Novell Option, Dial-Up Option. Add-on Options -- Advertising/Announcement Ticker, Entertainment Collection, Fax/Online, Omni-Mall, Search and Retrieve, Worldgroup Developer's Kit. Hardware -- GalactiBoard, Intelligent Serial Kit. Third-party Applications -- Over 100 Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) produce add-on products for Worldgroup including: catalog shopping, multimedia databases, video teleconferencing, group schedulers, document management tools, classified ads, multiplayer virtual reality games, and newsfeeds. Support: Readily available technical support. Full-time staff of engineers dedicated to providing voice support (954-321-2404, from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm M-F, EST); 24-hour support via the Galacticomm Demo System (954-583-7808, N-8-1); fax (954-583-7846); or the Internet (support@gcomm.com). Distribution: Worldwide distribution through Galacticomm's direct sales force (Internet e-mail: sales@gcomm.com) and a network of dealers, retailers, value-added resellers, and systems integrators. Distribution by Ingram Micro, Tech Data and DistribuPro. ----------------------------------- * Applications for Your Web Site ----------------------------------- - Plug in interactive client/server apps with Worldgroup A complete suite of applications hot-linked to your Web site. Catalog shopping with real-time credit card verification. Polls and questionnaires with instant graphical display of results. A fax server offering up-to-the-minute information. Video conferencing. Multimedia databases. Classified ads. Shared file libraries. Private discussion areas and chat sessions with shared "white board." And no CGI or Java programming required. With the freely distributable Worldgroup Plug-in for Netscape Navigator (and Microsoft Internet Explorer coming soon), dozens of ready-to-go applications can be launched directly from your users' browsers. No cost-per-user licensing fees mean all your employees, customers and business partners can enjoy your client/server apps over the Web. The Worldgroup Plug-in needs to be installed on your users PCs only once. A user who already has an account on your Worldgroup server will be seamlessly logged on. Those users who have not yet established an account will be asked to create one, using a simple sign-up dialog box. Add a few simple commands to your HTML files to fire off any Worldgroup app. When a user clicks on a link to an application, the plug-in connects to the Worldgroup server specified by an EMBED tag in your HTML file - and opens a telnet session through the same TCP/IP stack as the user's browser. The application is launched independently of the browser, so the user can continue to access this Windows client application - even after clicking away to another location on the Web. Your Worldgroup server and Web server do not necessarily have to be operating on the same machine - or even in the same location. Worldgroup works in conjunction with your favorite Web server - or you can use the Web server software built into Worldgroup. Easy to install, easy to administer. With Worldgroup, you can provide rich Web content with the ease of use people expect from their PCs. The high-impact graphics, sound, animation and context-sensitive help go way beyond basic HTML technology. Plug and Play Web Apps The Worldgroup baseline product includes online surveys, group messaging, shared file libraries and teleconferencing. Add a link to the polls and questionnaires module and you've got instantaneous information about the people on your site at your fingertips. Using pop-up screens, in minutes you'll create your own market research questionnaires, application forms and opinion polls. Intelligent branching lets you configure polls with questions that vary depending on answers received. You or your users can view tallied results online at any time. Print bar graphs or pie charts of the results or export the data for use in other applications. Set up surveys that different audiences - such as employees, customers and suppliers - have access to. After they complete the questionnaire, you can give them special files, demo software or upgrade their security access. Bring workgroup applications directly to your site with group messaging. All the popular features of today's leading messaging packages are supported - distribution lists, a spell checker, carbon copies and more. Configure up to 10,000 group discussion areas for different topics and define specific access levels for each user or classes of users. Forum messages are organized in both chronological order and topic "threads" to easily track conversations. Users can find messages fast with the "quickscan" feature and boolean keyword searches. URLs in messages are automatically recognized. With a single click on a highlighted address, users can link to Web sites, ftp files, launch telnet connections, or send Internet mail - all while maintaining a persistent session with your Worldgroup application. Liven things up with Rich-Text Format (RTF) messages with user-defined fonts, colors and styles. And Worldgroup's e-mail application can be used as your complete wide-area private messaging system or can interface to your existing e-mail package. Set up a link to the file libraries module and you've got the easiest way to organize and share files over the Web - a powerful improvement over ftp's limited implementation for file exchange. Find files by browsing through full-screen listings or searching by library, category, file name, file date, upload date and popularity. Use wildcard and boolean keyword expressions too, and keyword searches even extend into the text of the file. You can display the contents of ZIP files before downloading as well. Visitors to your Web site can tag hundreds of files for download, then conveniently transfer them with the click of a button. And, since all Worldgroup applications are multithreaded, these transfers are carried out in the background - freeing your users to access other online applications or Web pages in parallel. Worldgroup's teleconference is perfect for group meetings in real time over the Web. Discussions are displayed in a scrolling format with each person's name before his or her message. Ideas can be sketched using the collaborative drawing board. Visitors to your site also can exchange files directly from their teleconference session, at a background priority, while continuing their conversation. And, with their Web browser open, they can click on URLs that are automatically highlighted in discussion text, enabling a group of users to explore the Web together. * Add More Apps Add a complete client/server online shopping system. Provide 24-hour catalog sales of products, services and online time. With the Omni-Mall option, visitors to your Web site can scan through product catalogs and place or cancel orders at will. Your online mall can have multiple stores, each with several departments and its own products. To increase the selection of items and system revenue, you can rent space to other merchants. Associate multiple images, sound clips and text files with products in your stores for a multimedia sales presentation. Omni-Mall supports automated online credit card processing in real time. And credit card transactions are protected with the built-in encryption capabilities. Charge the appropriate sales tax using variable tax tables. Set up quantity discount levels, shipping methods, delivery schedules, weight rates and handling charges to be included on the invoice. Use Omni-Mall in conjunction with Fax/Online and automatically fax invoices to your store managers for just-in-time order fulfillment. Fax/Online also provides a database of up-to-the-minute documents. Employees can fax documents around the world without ever leaving their desks - and customers can visit your site and fax themselves the information they need. Maintain a list of phone number patterns - such as commonly used numbers and area codes - for different rate structures or to restrict calls. Quickly customize your menus to all of your Worldgroup applications with our object-oriented, point-and-click design environment. Add hypermedia graphics, digital sounds and multiframe animations without complex programming. With Worldgroup, you update the content of your applications from Windows dialog boxes -- whether you are local or remote to your server - making it very easy to maintain your site and keep it fresh. * Develop Your Own Web Applications Use Visual Basic and our developer's kit to create your own Worldgroup apps, or modify existing ones. A well-documented client/server API and application source code are included. Or just plug and play any app already available through our network of over 100 independent software vendors (ISVs). Of course, you can still include any Java applets, VRML worlds or any other HTML files you've already developed - Worldgroup works hand-in-hand with other leading Web technologies. * Efficiently Manage User Access Take your site beyond incomplete "page hit" auditing. User accounts bring demographic data, usage information and access control to your Web site. Generate real mailing labels - as well as e-mail distribution lists - for direct marketing campaigns. Conduct surveys to gather meaningful information about those visiting your site. Track system and user activities with the built-in audit trail - you can configure which events are recorded and create reports for further analysis. Automatically grant access to information and features based on who the user is. Software locks and keys determine how each user will view or access information and applications. Set up security keyrings, time restrictions, options for billing and expiration dates for individual users or classes of users. * Fulfill All Your Communication Needs Provide interactive client/server computing using the Internet or your Intranet as a TCP/IP network. The network-centric integration of Worldgroup applications achieves group productivity over the Web. Visitors efficiently use their time by performing multiple tasks simultaneously -- such as downloading files while ordering merchandise from your online store. Any new applications -- or new versions of existing ones -- will be updated automatically in the background. And these applications, once downloaded to a user's PC, can be used even without a connection to the server. Users also can access your Worldgroup server via modem, Novell IPX/SPX, TCP/IP, ISDN and X.25. From one central hub, you can manage the same set of information for all your users. With these connectivity methods, Worldgroup serves as a secure bridge between workgroups, the Web and the world. Provide your dial-up users with secure proxy and dedicated SLIP/CSLIP/PPPaccess out to the Internet using the Advanced Internet Option. Offer a range of Internet services such as ftp, telnet, rlogin, finger, NNTP newsgroups, IRC, SMTP and POP3 mail. * Update Your Web Site Today Web solutions for commerce, business communications, publishing, education and more. See for yourself. Check out our Web site at http://www.gcomm.com/ and download the free Worldgroup Plug-in. When you decide to buy a Worldgroup server, you can even place your order online. All Worldgroup products are covered by a no-nonsense 30-day money-back guarantee, and prices start at $595 list. For the name of your nearest dealer, or for more information regarding products and training courses, call 1-800-328-1128 (954-583-5990 outside the U.S. and Canada). ---------------------------------------------- * Entertainment Collection for Worldgroup ---------------------------------------------- * Spice Up Your Worldgroup Chat Sessions Host an online get-together for your callers that is jam-packed with amusement and excitement. The Entertainment Collection includes interactive arcade, word and adventure games, and features the Entertainment Teleconference - a multiuser chat extravaganza. * Online Interaction For Your Users Add a new level of excitement by using actions, sounds and images to enhance your users' real-time chat sessions. Let your users express themselves with animated words, such as hugs, waves, shrugs and smiles. Associate sound clips with these actions and those callers with sound cards will hear the sighs, chuckles and music that can accompany these actions. Users can select their favorite actions by clicking on icons in the action-word toolbar. For example, if Chris selected "laugh," the text "Chris is laughing at you" could appear on the screen accompanied by the sound of laughter. For visual impact, users can submit photos of themselves that, once approved by the Sysop, are available to other users as thumbnails or full images. Users can actually see who they're talking to - or images that represent them. * A Place Where Friends Meet Establish thousands of virtual rooms where your users can meet - each room can have its own topic, moderator and action lists. They can whisper secret messages to one another, invite people into their own private room, or sneak away into a one-on-one chat mode. A user list gives an at-a-glance update of those in the room - updated in real time as users enter and leave. To share ideas, users in a room can launch a common drawing board and sketch images using a wide selection of tools and colors. The drawing can even be saved to disk for future reference. * Entertainment Teleconference General Features - Capitalize on Worldgroup's client/server architecture and let your users enjoy multimedia teleconference sessions. - Support multiuser chat sessions over local networks, modems, and optionally the Internet, ISDN and X.25. - Establish multisystem teleconferences by linking to other teleconference systems. - Establish thousands of secure public and private rooms in which your users can meet. - Associate software security "keys" with each room - only users who hold the key can enter the room. - Configure hundreds of action commands that your users can select from a tool bar. Define up to two action lists for each room. - Appoint Tele-Sysops - helpers who can post credits and disconnect or squelch abusive users. - Associate sound clips with each action. - Approve user-submitted photos that can be viewed by others as thumbnails or full images. - Maximize your users' time with the background file transfer feature - accessible directly from the Teleconference menu. - Your users can configure topics for their private channels, enable/disable sounds, determine how text will display on their own screens and more. - Users in a room can launch a shared drawing board with the click of a button. * Game Modules General Features Deliver a full suite of multiplayer, terminal-mode games for your users to enjoy: - Provide casino-style games, including Tele-Blackjack, Tele-Poker and Tingo (teleconference bingo). - Let your users purchase lottery tickets and try to win free online time or credits with Super Lotto. - Offer battleship, arcade and word games with Super Nova, Androids and Hangman's Secret Cove. - Feature real-time text adventure games with Fazuul and Kyrandia. * Requirements - Worldgroup v1.01 or higher - 11MB disk space Call Us Today Enhance your real-time chat sessions. Attract hundreds of users to your Worldgroup system with this fun-packed entertainment module. Call your favorite Galacticomm dealer, or call us direct at 1-800-328-1128 (or 954-583-5990 outside the U.S. and Canada). Galacticomm, Entertainment Collection and Worldgroup are trademarks of Galacticomm, Inc. All other products are trademarks of their respective companies. ----------------------------- * Fax/Online for Worldgroup ------------------------------ * An Outgoing Fax Service For Your Organization Ensure that your sales and customer support staff always have the latest information at their fingertips. With Fax/Online you can use your Worldgroup system as a fax server, sharing a group of fax/modems and a document database to efficiently fax messages and information kits around the world. Your users can call in and request up-to-the-minute-information, and it will be faxed to them directly from your server. If you're running a for-profit system, you can generate revenue by charging users for toll calls and for each page of information faxed. * Easy Management and Viewing of Information A user entering the Fax/Online module will see the list of the documents to which he has access. When sending a fax, your user is prompted for information about where the fax is going and has the opportunity to type a message to accompany the file. A Windows caller can use the built-in viewer to display documents on his screen or output to any printer attached to his PC. * Configure Your System For Exceptional Security and Accounting Fax/Online lets you protect your system against those who might try to run up your phone bill or annoy others at your expense. You can set up your system to restrict or block calls to any number that you choose (such as emergency numbers or pay services). You can define software security "keys" required by users to access certain numbers (such as international numbers). Before permitting a fax transmission, Fax/Online checks that the user has the appropriate access key and credit balance to make the call. * General Features - Provide an easy to use fax service with a client/server interface and context-sensitive online help. - Add documents by simply faxing them to a fax modem on your Worldgroup server. - Set up different rate structures for various calling areas. - Define charges for first page and subsequent pages, depending on the destination. - Automatically deduct credits from your users' accounts before a fax transmission is attempted - refunds will be given for any unsuccessful fax attempts. - Keep your users informed - Fax/Online will automatically e-mail your users with the outcome of each fax attempt. - Send an announcement to users still logged on to your system as to the status of their fax transmission. - Protect your build and send queues from the effects of power outages or system shutdown - both queues are maintained on disk. Upon system restart the fax delivery will pick up where it left off. - Configure the number of transmission retries and the number of minutes between attempted transmissions. - Use Fax/Online in conjunction with any Class 2 or 2.0 CCITT Group 3-compatible fax modem. - Save time by sending faxes in the background while continuing to access other services. * Security Features - Establish a list of numbers that users cannot access, such as calls to emergency or pay services. - Define numbers that need added security, such as calls to exclusive clientele or staff members. Provide software keys to those users who can fax to these numbers. - Use software keys to restrict access to certain documents on your system. Only users who have the key will be able to view or fax these documents. - Automatically verify that your users have enough credits in their account before sending each fax transmission. - Directly fax invoices to the store managers of your online shopping service (requires the Omni-Mall add-on option, sold separately). * Requirements - Worldgroup v1.01 or higher - 5MB disk space - One or more fax modems supporting EIA Class 2 or Class 2.0 standard and the CCITTGroup 3 standard Place Your Order Today Extend the efficiency and reach of your online service. Provide up-to-the-minute information by fax to your users around the world. Call your favorite Galacticomm dealer, or call us direct at 1-800-328-1128 (or 954-583-5990 outside the U.S. and Canada). Galacticomm, Fax/Online and Worldgroup are trademarks of Galacticomm, Inc. Omni-Mall is a trademark of Datasafe Publications, Inc. All other products are trademarks of their respective companies. ------------------------------- * Omni-Mall for Worldgroup ------------------------------- * Online Ordering and Real-Time Credit-Card Verification Offer a fully interactive online shopping and order-entry environment from your online service with the Omni-Mall add-on module for Worldgroup. Omni-Mall is perfect for 24-hour sales of your products, services or online time, and even lets you rent space to other merchants. For real-time credit card verification, a Point of Sale (POS) Dial module is included. * Flexible and Easy Configuration Your online mall can have multiple stores, each run by its own merchant. Each merchant has control over his or her own store, organizing it into departments and structuring the product line. Built-in editors help your merchants define unique attributes such as the accepted payment options and purchase limits for each store, department names, product handling charges, retail prices and inventory limits. * Market and Sell Your Products Online Promote products in your stores using images, sound and unlimited length text files - your customers can browse stores online, select the products they want to buy and then pay using a variety of encrypted payment options including American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa, COD, purchase order, and online credits. Omni-Mall will add the appropriate sales tax and shipping costs. You can fax an invoice directly to the store manager (with the Fax/Online add-on option). A receipt of the order can be sent via e-mail to the customer. * General Features - Enjoy the Worldgroup client/server interface with context sensitive help. - Provide the greatest choice of access to users with ANSI/ASCII terminal mode support. - Associate thumbnail graphic images with each store to show customers what the store is offering. - Describe each product with up to three images (BMP, GIF, JPG, TIFF, PCX, etc.). - Attach sound (WAV) files to your products as attention-getters or to provide spoken descriptions. - Offer downloadable software products, graphical images or database information - customers can download the files they have paid for directly from your store as e-mail file attachments. - Define a manager for each store - your store manager can securely add, edit or delete departments and products. - Automatically fax invoices to store managers (requires the Fax/Online add-on option). - Charge the appropriate sales tax to purchases made from each store using the built-in tax table. - Operate over a variety of networks - including the Internet. * Security Features - Offer data protection to your customers - all credit card numbers are mathematically verified and encrypted in the client/server mode. - Provide airtight security and account management by defining a software "key" that users must have to enter each store - users without this key will not have access. - Define those customers who may order products with a purchase order - you can grant them software keys that allow access to this payment option. - Use software keys to set up guest accounts and different access levels for users; control who sees information or can perform functions; determine whether a customer gets wholesale or retail pricing; and more. - Protect against fraudulent activity by setting a purchase limit for each store - the system will automatically reject any order that exceeds this limit. - Check the validity of your customer's credit card using the real-time credit-card verification feature. * Requirements - Worldgroup v1.0 or higher - 248KB memory, 305KB with POS Dial module enabled - 1MB disk space - If using the installed POS Dial module, one modem set to no data compression and no error correction on a dedicated outgoing phone line Place Your Order Today If you're looking for the most open, cost-effective way to provide online ordering, call your favorite Galacticomm dealer, or call us direct at 1-800-328-1128 (or 954-583-5990 outside the U.S. and Canada). Galacticomm, Fax/Online and Worldgroup are trademarks of Galacticomm, Inc. Omni-Mall is a trademark of Datasafe Publications, Inc. All other products are trademarks of their respective companies. ---------------------------------- * Hardware Options for Worldgroup ---------------------------------- Expand Worldgroup with multi-user hardware You know your online service is successful when two lines just aren't enough for your expanding user base. As your system activity increases, you can incrementally add capacity for six more channels at a time with User Six-Packs - up to 256 simultaneous users on a single PC. We harness Worldgroup's power to support large line counts with the GalactiBox and the GalactiBoard. Both of these high-performance, multi-user hardware options will increase your PC's modem capacity. * The GalactiBox The GalactiBox, or "G-Box" for short, is a 16-slot, AT-size expansion chassis specially designed for connecting large numbers of internal modems, fax/modems, or serial cards to Worldgroup. The G-Box also supports GalactiBoards, voice/DTMF interface cards, or any 8-bit I/O option cards, to expand the hardware addressing potential of these cards for multi-line, multi-user, or multi-tasking applications. The G-Box comes with an interface card and cabling to plug right into an expansion slot in your PC. With 16 internal modems in your G-Box, you won't have to worry about stacks of modems getting knocked over or giant tangles of cables in the back of your PC. There are just 16 standard RJ-11 phone cables connecting the telephone lines to the back of your G-Box, one cable linking the G-Box to the computer, and one power cord for the G-Box. If you order internal modems at the same time that you order your G-Box, we'll install and test them for you. This way, we can "burn-in" the entire unit, and you'll get a box that's ready to plug-and-play without modification. We carry a complete line of internal modems that we've tested for reliability with Worldgroup. You can also order a G-Box unpopulated and install your own modem cards. Installing them is easy. You just open up the G-Box and slide in up to 16 Hayes-compatible modems. With the G-Box, you can start small and expand later. Once you fill up one G-Box, you can add more. You can install up to four G-Boxes with 64 modems using just one COM port address. You can use all four of your COM port addresses to reach a line count of up to 256 by "nesting" up to 16 G-Boxes into an additional G-Box and connecting that to one slot in your computer. * The G-Box is not just an Expansion Chassis The GalactiBox can be used as a standard 16-slot I/O expansion chassis, but its real power comes from its ability to multiplex a group of otherwise identical PC/AT/ISA option cards into one set of I/O addresses. Simply put, if you tried to place 16 identical modems into a regular expansion chassis, none of them would work. All of the modems would respond at the same set of I/O port addresses, creating bus contention. The G-Box has a unique port-stacking feature that lets you connect multiple ports without addressing conflicts. Port stacking takes advantage of the high order address bits (A10-A15) that are ignored by almost all serial port cards made for the PC. Instead of one modem on a COM port address, you can have 8, or 16, or even 64 with four G-Boxes. * GalactiBoard If you'd like to expand your system eight modems at a time, or if you prefer external modems, the GalactiBoard ("G-Board") is an excellent solution. This eight-port serial card connects up to eight external Hayes-compatible modems or computer terminals, or other devices to your system. The GalactiBoard can be used in any PC with the standard PC/AT/EISA bus. The G-Board was designed for use with Worldgroup, but can work with other multi-user applications as well. You just insert the G-Board into one of the expansion slots in your computer and connect external modems to the eight cables. On high-volume systems, if you run out of expansion slots for your G-Boards, you can place them in a GalactiBox. You can insert up to 16 G-Boards into one G-Box, for a total of 128 serial ports. Like the G-Box, the G-Board also minimizes cabling. One 30-inch "octopus" cable is included with the G-Board. It plugs into the back of the G-Board and splits into eight male RS-232C connections, which can be plugged directly into external modems. We carry a complete line of external modems. * Easy to Configure Galacticomm's multimodem software does not use conventional hardware interrupts, like those associated with COM1 and COM2 serial ports. We use a much more efficient time-sliced interrupt scheme that supports many more channels than regular interrupt-based or polling-based architectures. Interrupt conflicts are never an issue. All 16 lines can answer to the same phone number. When you're installing your phone lines, simply ask your phone service to configure them as a single "hunt group." You can purchase the GalactiBox and GalactiBoard from your favorite Galacticomm dealer, or call us direct at 1-800-328-1128 (or 305-583-5990 outside the U.S. and Canada). These products include a one-year parts and labor warranty. * GalactiBox Features - 16 I/O expansion slots per GalactiBox - Supports internal modems, serial cards, fax cards, GalactiBoards, or 8-bit I/O option card - Up to four GalactiBoxes can connect 64 modems on a single COM port address - Up to 16 G-Boxes can be nested to 1 machine - Compatible with the PC/AT and EISA bus - Automatic wait-state generation: 0 to 15 wait-states - Up to 16 interrupt sources on the GalactiBox bus (one per slot), with the appropriate programming of two on-board 8259A interrupt controls - One or two interrupts on your computer's bus, with edge-regenerating logic - Input power selectable to 110 or 220 volts, 50 or 60 cycles AC - 200 watt power supply - GalactiBox does not support: memory, DMA (Direct Memory Access), bus arbitration, Interrupts 0, 1, 6, 7 GalactiBoard Features - 8 EIA-232D-compatible serial ports on one card that plug into PC/AT/EISA-compatible expansion slot - Each port has a 16550-type UART with 16-byte receive and transmit FIFO buffers. - Supports 300 to 57,600 bits per second transfer rate - 14 addressing modes, DIP-switch selectable. All modes (except mode 8) are free of addressing conflicts with COM1/2/3/4 serial ports - Configure up to 7 G-Boards (56 ports) using only 4 channel groups - Configure up to 32 GalactiBoards (255 ports) using G-Boxes and 8 channel groups - 30-inch cabling included. Each connector is clearly marked "PORT 0" through "PORT 7" on both sides - RS-232C DTE pinouts for direct connection to modems or other devices. - Signals supported on each port: Ground, Transmit, Receive, RTS, CTS, DCD, DTR - Each serial cable may be extended up to 50' in length - Interrupt support, for custom programming your own applications. (Worldgroup does not use conventional I/O interrupts) All specifications subject to change without notice Galacticomm, GalactiBoard, GalactiBox and Worldgroup are trademarks of Galacticomm, Inc. ------ * Intelligent Serial Kit for Worldgroup Double your system's performance with intelligent multi-user hardware Only Galacticomm gives you the power to support up to 256 simultaneous users on a single PC. You'll never have to worry about tangles of cable, stacks of computers, or layers of multitasking software with Worldgroup. Match our software breakthrough with multi-user hardware, and you can greatly expand the modem capacity of your PC beyond COM1/2/3/4. To give you screaming performance for a huge number of simultaneous users, we've teamed up with Equinox Systems Inc. Now, you can rack up dozens of high-speed modems to a single PC with our Intelligent Serial Kit. Originally, our software only worked with non-intelligent serial boards. Your CPU (and our software) had the full burden of handling every byte of data that was piped in or out of your system in real time - a heavy load under today's high speed modems. Now, by using the Intelligent Serial Kit (ISK), you can offload much of the nitty-gritty piping of data from the CPU to the intelligent hardware. The ISK is an expandable I/O subsystem that takes advantage of Equinox's new RISC-based SuperSerial Technology (SST). Equinox's intelligent multiport cards free up tremendous system resources, and solidly boost your system's potential throughput to over 590,000 aggregate CPS - more than double any other single-PC solution. The table to the left illustrates the results of our field testing with Equinox hardware. We successfully demonstrated 225 simultaneous file transfers at 19.2 Kbps and 173 simultaneous transfers at 38.4 Kbps - with no degradation in performance. All of this was handled by a single Pentium machine. The testing also demonstrated a record number of transfers at 115,200 bps and 230,400 bps. Our software is the first commercial online service platform to support 230K speeds - just in time for 28.8K modems and ISDN to take off on a wide scale. Ironclad Reliability Equinox SST products feature advanced multistrike surge protection. Every line of every port is protected against voltages as high as 15kV - protecting your connections from real-world surge hazards. * Host Controller Boards Start with a single host controller card. It plugs right into an expansion slot in your PC and provides the intelligent communications processor to offload the CPU serial communications workload. Host controllers are available for the ISA bus system. Just plug in the host controller and connect your choice of modules. The Intelligent Serial Kit requires minimal system resources, so difficult-to-solve system conflicts are virtually eliminated. After installation, the comprehensive online diagnostics ensure simplified maintenance. Only the Intelligent Serial Kit provides this feature, and even lets you view the real-time data and status of any port. * Port Modules As your line usage grows, add port modules in increments of 8 or 16 ports - up to a total of 128 ports with a maximum speed of 115,200 bps or 64 ports with a maximum speed of 230,400 bps. Expand from 8 ports to 128 ports in a single slot. The host controller card links to the port modules with a 4' cable and a RJ45 connector. * Easily integrates with Worldgroup The software driver for the Intelligent Serial Kit interfaces directly to the server's communication engine using the Galacticomm Custom Device Interface (GCDI). In the tradition of our open architecture, the GCDI enables independent vendors - such as Equinox - to add new connectivity to Worldgroup by creating a DLL that automatically links into the underlying architecture at run time. The openness of this interface ensures that your system will keep pace with the constant change of communications technology. Non-intelligent hardware, such as GalactiBoards and GalactiBoxes, offer a cost-effective alternative for increasing your modem capacity - and are the recommended solution for systems with fewer than 30-40 lines. The GalactiBox is an expansion chassis with slots for up to 16 internal modems or serial cards. The GalactiBoard is an eight-port serial card for external modems, terminals, or other computers running communications software. Both products work in parallel with the ISK. * Everything is included The Intelligent Serial Kit includes Equinox's SST 8- or 16-channel port modules, the intelligent software driver, the Equinox host controller, all RJ45 cabling, adapters for modem connections, and documentation. Kits supporting speeds of up to 115.2 Kbps are available in 16-, 32-, 64-, 96-, and 128-line counts. Kits supporting speeds of up to 230.4 Kbps are available in 16- and 32-line counts. Each kit comes with a five-year warranty and world-class support from both Galacticomm and Equinox. * SuperSerial XP Host Controllers Specifications Processor: 30 MHz Equinox SuperSerial Processor (2 SSPs provided on SS128) Performance: SS64 - 64 ports @230 Kbps SS128 - 128 ports @115 Kbps Bus Interface: 16-bit ISA Memory Map: 16 Kb (shared) On-board SS64 - 512 Kb Memory: SS128 - 1 MB Power 5V @ 1A + 5% plus port module Requirements: requirements if powered from host Expansion Bus: SS64 - single expansion bus, connects up to 4 modules SS128 - dual expansion bus, connects up to 4 modules per expansion bus, 8 modules total Cable - 4' host cable supplied w/SS64; two 4' host cables supplied w/SS128 Bus Length - 500' max between modules Connectors - HD-22 Cable - 6-twisted-pair, low-capacitance, shielded SuperSerial XP Port Modules (8 or 16) Application: Locate near host for direct connect or distribute within a facility using optional expansion bus cables and external supplies 8-port Modules: RM8-RJ (RJ-45) 16-port Modules: RM16-RJ (RJ-45) Performance: 8-port modules - 64 ports @230 Kbps 16-port modules - 128 ports @115 Kbps Interface: Type - RJ45 Signals - TXD, RXD, CTS, DSR, DCD, DTR, RI, GND Surge Protection: All ports, all signals, multi-strike Power 8-port modules - 5V @0.6A Requirements: 16-port modules - 5V @1.2A Power Sources: Host powered - modules receive power from host computer when connected via supplied 4' host cable(s) Externally powered - optional power supplies required w/expansion bus cables All specifications subject to change without notice Galacticomm and Worldgroup are trademarks of Galacticomm, Inc. Equinox is a registered trademark of EQUINOX Systems Inc. SuperSerial is a trademark of EQUINOX Systems Inc. ------------------------------- * Worldgroup Developer's Kit ------------------------------- * An open platform for developing online applications Worldgroup's client/server online platform is a foundation for others to build upon. A large effort has been made to ensure you have the tools and techniques you need in order to write add-on applications as well as customize existing ones. This development environment harnesses the power of server-side C code coupled with the ease of design and extensibility of client-side Visual Basic (VB) code. * General Architecture The Worldgroup server software runs on your host machine under DOS. It manages agents, the server portion of client/server applications. The client software, Worldgroup Manager, runs on the users' PCs under Windows and manages apps. Client apps make requests of the server. These client requests are serviced by server agents. The server also supports terminal-mode modules. These modules provide an ASCII/ANSI/RIP interface for non-client users. The design of the Worldgroup platform allows developers to get involved at several levels: - Customizing existing client apps using VB - Developing new client apps in VB utilizing existing server agents (E-mail, Forums, File Libraries, etc.) - Customizing existing server agents or terminal-mode modules - Developing new applications involving apps, agents, and terminal-mode modules The link between apps and agents is handled by the Galacticomm Client/Server Protocol (GCSP). The best thing about this multithreaded, error correcting protocol is that you, as a developer, don't have to worry about it. The communications link on both the client and server sides is managed entirely by the GCSP engine. Since we've already taken care of the details involved in managing the actual client/server link, you don't have to handle the low-level I/O at all. This leaves you free to focus on the functionality of your application. * Terminal-Mode Modules Terminal-mode plug-in DLLs exist on the server for providing an ASCII/ANSI/RIP interface to applications. Generally, a terminal-mode user is in one module at a time. Modules are organized as state machines, allowing users to move from state to state. Terminal-mode modules can intercept users at logon or logoff as well as register global command handlers for interacting with users when they are within other modules. High-level API calls exist for making it as easy as possible to provide a terminal-mode interface. However, your terminal-mode application can also access the low-level channel routines, including interrupt level routines. * Client Apps Armed with the GCSP engine, Visual Basic, and the myriad of other tools available under Windows, client apps run the show. They can utilize 100% of the resources on the client machine: intricate graphics, sound, animation, video, etc. You can create and modify such apps easily because of the work Microsoft and hundreds of other companies have put into Windows-based development tools. Visual Basic is powerful. What it doesn't do for you, hundreds of add-on tools will. You can even access the Windows API calls directly from VB, including your own C libraries, so you have complete control over the client environment. For communicating with the server, client apps read and write data in the form of dynapaks. A dynapak consists of a name and a value. The value can be either a block of data (a structure, record, e-mail message, etc. up to 16K in length) or a DOS file. The GCSP engine handles the transport of all dynapak requests and values. The app makes the requests, the agent services them, and the GCSP engine is the go-between. The client GCSP engine doesn't just transport dynapaks to and from the server. It caches them as well, transparently increasing the apparent throughput of the link (and thus the apparent responsiveness of the application). The client GCSP engine can even service dynapak read and write requests while operating on deck (offline, but still able to perform many functions within the context of a system). In many cases, an app can execute the same code whether operating online or on deck. When an app makes a request identical to an earlier one whose result is still in the client-side cache, the GCSP engine doesn't need to be online with the server agent in order to service the request. An app reads and writes dynapaks by making calls to API routines in the GCSP engine. To sit around and wait (with a Windows hourglass displayed) for a response from the server, synchronous flavors of read and write exist. To continue to operate while waiting for a response from the server, asynchronous flavors of read and write also exist. Using synchronous calls, app code is very linear. Using asynchronous calls, app code is more event-driven. Most apps will use a mix of synchronous and asynchronous calls depending on circumstance. In summary, Visual Basic is the development environment with extensibility for most any need, and dynapaks are the tool used for communicating between client apps and server agents. * Server Agents Server agents run as plug-in DLLs on the Worldgroup server PC. When a read or write request comes in from a client, the server GCSP engine automatically routes it to the read or write handler in the appropriate agent. From there, the agent is free to service the request in any way it chooses. When ready with a response, the agent simply hands that response off to the engine for transport. A request can be responded to immediately, or it can take some time. To be called back repeatedly by the engine over time (cycled), the agent simply calls cycleme() with a routine address to call every chance it gets. By cycling, agents can perform things like database searches in order to respond to a request. An agent can also communicate with other channels, wait for real-time events, or perform many tasks in order to service a client request. The client can handle doing many things at once, since it's running under Windows. Although not running under Windows, the server can multitask as well. Up to 30 requests can be outstanding on any given channel at any given time. Each request has its own context with per-request memory to keep track of its status. Except for conflict checking where necessary, the engine shields the agent from having to be aware of this fact. The engine calls the agent when a request comes in, calls its cycleme() routine as requested, maintains the request's context, and eventually transports the agent's response to the client. Develop your vision today. Tap into the power to bring your vision online. The Worldgroup Client/Server Developer's Kit is available from your favorite Galacticomm dealer, or call us direct at 1-800-328-1128 (or 954-583-5990 outside the U.S. and Canada). * Development Requirements Server Borland C++ 4.5 Borland Turbo Assembler Phar Lap 286|DOS Extender 3.1 Worldgroup Client/Server Developer's Kit Client Visual Basic for Windows 3.0 Professional Edition Sheridan Software's 3-D Widgets Worldgroup Client App Developer's Kit or Client/Server Developer's Kit * Development Kit Features Client API - 30 threads per user - Each app is a separate VB .EXE - Automatic version control and background updating - Transparent file transfer handling - Online or offline capability - Callback custom control allows for synchronous or asynchronous operation - Dynapak prioritization capability - Greater than and less than dynapak reads for generating lists of data with one function call - Routines to view dynapak data as it comes in - Generic agent for rapid client development - Local data storage is dynapak based - Extensive documentation and source examples Agent API - 30 requests per channel - Per-request memory - Dynapak manipulation routines - Event-driven, C-based DLL technology - Data format conversion routines (VB "types" to C "structs") - Output queues and threads handled by the GCSP engine - Priority issues handled by the GCSP engine - Generic dynapak data file for storage - Accounting functions (deducting, awarding, exempting credit use) - Security functions (checking keys, setting locks, changing classes) - Extensive documentation and source examples Terminal-mode API - Full Screen Editor services - Full Screen Data entry field display/edit routines - File Transfer Facility routines for terminal-mode file transfers - State machine, C-based DLL technology - Routines to allow for individual channel manipulation - Accounting functions (deducting, awarding, exempting credit use) - Security functions (checking keys, setting locks, changing classes) - Multilingual support - Date, time, and file handling suite - Routines for dealing with message file configuration options - Global command API - Complete Btrieve database API - Extensive documentation and source examples ----------------------------- * Security Mechanisms ----------------------------- * The secure solution for remote access Today, more and more business is being conducted online: electronic commerce, information dissemination, exchange of sensitive data and more. In this open computing environment, the security of your system is critical. That's why Worldgroup offers an airtight security architecture. Worldgroup safely lets you offer online services to customers and prospects without risking the integrity of your LAN security or the confidentiality of your internal workgroups. * A firewall to your LAN Unlike many remote access programs, your users can't access your DOSprompt. At no point do you risk a user having DOS-level control over your system. In fact, Worldgroup's protected mode operation makes it impossible to execute DOS applications (which run in real mode) while the system is online. Protected mode gives Worldgroup the multitasking abilities to support up to 256 simultaneous users on a single PC. * Password protection When new users log on to your system, they must create User-IDs and passwords. By keeping their passwords private and changing them frequently, users ensure the security of their User-IDs. To help protect your system against intruders, the server hangs up if a caller guesses the wrong password three times. If this happens, an audit trail entry will note the time, date, User-ID and channel of the attempted logon. This hang-up feature discourages hackers from making dozens of guesses until they figure out a password. * Five models of Worldgroup To get you started, we've created five categories with default security settings. During installation, select one as a starting point and then fine-tune as needed. The Public Model gives first-time callers access to all harmless services (reading/writing messages, downloading files, etc.). The Customer Service Model gives prospects access to some services, but reserves the more valuable services for customers. The Sign-up Model gives applicants the ability to enter their names and addresses, but they can't access anything until you give them authorization. The For-Profit Model lets first-time callers sign up and access limited test-drive services, while paying customers can enjoy all of your system's user services. The Private Model brings stringent access control for private or in-house online systems. Callers can't log on unless you've assigned them a User-ID and password. No new user applications are accepted. * Locks and Keys Because of the open distribution of the Worldgroup client program, which runs on the user's PC, the server manages all security access levels through its Locks and Keys architecture. You control access by placing locks on features and issuing keys to authorized users. You activate a lock by telling it to screen users for a specific key. Users can pass through an activated lock if you have assigned the same key to the user. The server will check the user's keys before fulfilling any request. * Assigning Locks and Keys You can set locks at three levels: the Menu Tree, the modules (e.g., e-mail, forums, etc.) and through Security and Accounting configuration options. Menu Tree locks determine which menu options specific users can access. These locks are configured offline at the Sysop's console. For your ASCII, ANSI and RIP terminal mode callers, you can choose to hide the option, dim it, or show it. If a user selects a menu option that he doesn't have a key for, he will be notified that the requested option isn't available. You can also use Menu Tree locks for your client/server menus. If a user doesn't have the required key, you can choose to hide the option or show it. Because the client runs on the user's PC, however, all security issues are best handled by the server. Server locks on the modules or in Security and Accounting options prevent unauthorized access from terminal mode and client users alike. Module locks determine which activities are offered to which users within individual modules. Set these locks online when you create libraries, forums, polls and so forth. If a User-ID doesn't have the required key for the module, he will be denied access. Over 1,000 user-configurable parameters are available in CNF, the offline configuration facility for the Worldgroup server. Special Security and Accounting CNF options let you customize user access restrictions and most of the accounting settings. * Classes of users For ease of management, you can create millions of classes of users, such as PROSPECT, CUSTOMER, STAFF, SYSOP, etc., with associated keyrings of services they can access. Assign keys to classes or individual users. You can have up to 10,000 classes of users. For each class, you can specify a time limit, whether to exempt incidental charges, a debt limit and the keys users will have. Configure a class to automatically expire to another class after a certain number of days. Inactive accounts can be automatically purged. For pay-for-use systems, the server can meter online time by the second. You can grant users a certain amount of prepaid time. If you allow users to run up a tab, you can generate a report once a week or once a month for billing purposes. * Security you can trust As data theft on the Internet and online services continues to make headlines, companies are seeking foolproof ways to share information and resources with field staff, customers, vendors and the world at large. Worldgroup provides this security with Locks and Keys that grant individual users and groups access to different areas of the server. If you'd like to offer remote access to LAN, modem and (optionally) X.25, ISDN and Internet users, Worldgroup is your secure solution. For more information or to order Galacticomm products, call your favorite Galacticomm dealer, or call us direct at 1-800-328-1128 (or 954-583-5990 outside the U.S. and Canada). Galacticomm, Locks and Keys and Worldgroup are trademarks of Galacticomm, Inc. ------------------------------ * Direct Pricing Information ------------------------------ April, 1996 Worldgroup Version 1.0, 8-user $595.00 Launch plug-and-play client/server applications from your Web site. Includes customizable surveys, shared file libraries, group messaging, SMTP mail and teleconference with collaborative drawing board. Built-in Web server software -- or use in conjunction with your existing Web server. Supports up to eight sinultaneous users via TCP/IP. Requires 486 or Pentium-class PC, 8MB of RAM and DOS 5 or higher. Includes freely distributable Worldgroup Plug-in for Netscape Navigator that will launch Windows client applications from users' browsers. Worldgroup Dial-Up Server $795.00 Ideal for setting up your own online service or bulletin board system. Includes 8-user license of Worldgroup and Dial-Up Option for modem support. Worldgroup Internet Server $1,995.00 Become an Internet Service Provider and offer dial-up users secure proxy and dedicated SLIP/CSLIP/PPP access out to the Internet, as well as a range of Internet services, such as ftp, telnet, rlogin, finger, NNTP newsgroups, IRC and POP3 mail. Includes 20-user license of Worldgroup, Dial-Up Option, Advanced Internet Option and Dial-Out add-on. Worldgroup Enterprise Server $7,995.00 A complete online interactive software platform. Offer online shopping with secure credit card verification, customizable surveys, shared file libraries, group messaging, teleconference with collaborative drawing board, ftp, telnet, rlogin, finger, NNTP newsgroups, IRC, SMTP and POP3 mail. Support for TCP/IP, modem, Novell LAN and ISDN callers. Includes 128-user license of Worldgroup, Dial-Up Option, Novell LAN Option, Advanced Internet Option, Dial-Out add-on and Omni-Mall add-on. Add-on Options -------------- Fax/Online Add-on Option $249.00 Provides an outgoing online fax service for your system. Users can fax pre-scanned images and ASCII text files from your document database, view or print faxes from the built-in viewer, inquire about fax rate charges, and send copies to others. Requires EIA Class 2 or 2.0/CCITT Group 3 fax modems. Entertainment Collection Add-on Option $295.00 Includes the Action Teleconference, a chat extravaganza with action words, sounds and images; multiplayer text adventures, ANSI-graphics, Flash and teleconference games; and more. Omni-Mall $995.00 Extends your system into an online shopping mall of products and services. Users can scan through product catalogs at no obligation, view images of available items, and place or cancel orders at will. Supports automated online credit-card processing and data encryption. Connectivity Options -------------------- Dial-Out Add-on Option $195.00 Allows users on your system to transparently connect to other computers via TCP/IP and optionally modems, serial links or X.25 connections. A flexible script language lets you configure features or areas of other systems your users can access. Dial-Up Option $295.00 Supports modem access to your Worldgroup system. Novell LAN Option $295.00 Allows users on your Novell LAN without TCP/IP connectivity to access your Worldgroup system. Supports Novell NetWare IPX/SPX channels. User Six-Pack, each $295.00 Supports up to six additional simultaneous users. Installs effortlessly and leaves all existing configuration and data files intact. Up to 41 User Six-Packs can be added for a total of 256 simultaneous users (support for the last two users is included at no charge). Advanced Internet Option $495.00 Provides dial-up users with secure proxy and dedicated SLIP/CSLIP/PPP access out to the Internet, as well as a range of Internet services, such as ftp, telnet, rlogin, finger, NNTP newsgroups, IRC and POP3 mail. X.25 Software Option $995.00 Connects your system to an X.25 packet-switching network without the need for a PAD. Requires the PC XNet Card - see X.25 Network Hardware. Developer's Kits ---------------- Worldgroup Developer's Kit $495.00 Modify client-side applications, server-side agents and existing Worldgroup add-ons or write your own Worldgroup add-on options. Contains the Visual Basic source for baseline client apps (e.g. e-mail, file libraries, etc.). Includes the server-side engine in LIB form and the C source code to all server-side apps, files necessary to recompile the run-time executable, two of the utilities and certain standard DLLs. Documentation is included. Requires a registered copy of Worldgroup, the Phar Lap 286|DOS-Extender SDK, Borland C++ 4.5, Visual Basic Pro 3.0 and 3-D Widgets from Sheridan Software. Visual Writer Pro 2.25 and Visual Speller 1.0 required to modify Worldgroup's message center. Advanced Internet Option and Internet Connectivity Source Code required to modify existing Internet capabilities or to develop your own Internet add-ons. Extended C Source Developer's Kit $495.00 Contains the C sources to many of the offline programs, such as the configuration editor, the menu tree management utilities and screen drawing tools. Also contains the C source to GCOMM.LIB, a collection of low-level routines used by Worldgroup and its offline utilities for DOS functions, operator I/O, text message management, etc. Requires the Worldgroup Developer's Kit. (All source code listed below requires the Worldgroup Developer's Kit and a registered copy of the specific add-on option.) Fax/Online Developer's Kit $ 99.00 Dial-Out C Source Code $295.00 Entertainment Collection C Source Code $450.00 Requires Brushed Aluminum set of VBXtasy by Spinoza Ltd to recompile the client app. Internet Connectivity Option Source Code $495.00 Contains source code to Worldgroup's Internet capabilities included in the baseline package and Advanced Internet Option. Requires Advanced Internet Option. Omni-Mall C Source Code $995.00 Development Tools ----------------- DOORWAY by TriMark Engineering $49.95 Provides access to DOS applications on a separate computer. 286|DOS-Extender SDK by Phar Lap $414.00 Break the 640K DOS memory barrier and access up to 16MB of extended memory in protected mode. X.25 Network Hardware --------------------- PC XNet Card from OST $1,295.00 A dual-port X.25 interface that connects directly to equipment from SprintNet, CompuServe, Autonet and other packet-switching networks. Multi-User Hardware ------------------- GalactiBoard $495.00 An 8-port EIA-232D serial interface for connecting external modems, terminals, or other computers running communications software. Uses 16550-type UARTs for efficient high-speed file transfers. Cable assembly included which provides 8 male DB-25 connectors with DTE pinouts. Update Program -------------- Automatic Software Update Program $395.00 Per year, per registration number. Receive all significant new software updates to Galacticomm products you have purchased as soon as we've fully tested them. (International ASUPs are $495/year.) For "one-shot" updates, give us a call for pricing. Intelligent Serial Kits ----------------------- Enables Worldgroup to take advantage of Equinox Systems Inc.'s intelligent multiport SuperSerial hardware - delivering unsurpassed performance. Each ISK includes Worldgroup intelligent driver software, Equinox host controller, 8- or 16-port module(s), power supplies, cables, modem adapters, and documentation. 16-line (up to 115.2 Kbps) $1,975.00 32-line (up to 115.2 Kbps) $2,735.00 64-line (up to 115.2 Kbps) $4,255.00 96-line (up to 115.2 Kbps) $5,865.00 128-line (up to 115.2 Kbps) $7,385.00 16-port upgrade (up to 115.2 Kbps) $ 925.00 16-line (up to 230.4 Kbps) $1,885.00 32-line (up to 230.4 Kbps) $2,805.00 8-port upgrade (up to 230.4 Kbps) $ 665.00 8-port Intelligent Serial Board $ 745.00 Shipping Options ---------------- 2nd day air, anywhere in U.S. $16.00 Next day air, anywhere in U.S. $26.00 Canada and Mexico $48.00 International software Call for quote Hardware orders Call for quote The prices above include shipping and handling charges for software shipments via the courier of our choice. We can also ship via the courier of your choice; call for details and pricing. All Galacticomm products include a 30-day money-back guarantee! For the name of your nearest dealer, to order direct from us, or for information regarding training courses, call 1-800-328-1128 (954-583-5990 outside the U.S. and Canada). All prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Prices listed are in U.S. dollars. All hardware, unless otherwise specified, conforms to North American standards. Galacticomm, Dial-Out, Entertainment Collection, Fax/Online, GalactiBoard, Advanced Internet Option, User Six-Pack, Worldgroup and X.25 Software Option are trademarks of Galacticomm, Inc. All other products are trademarks of their respective companies. =============================================================== [2.1.02] - SEARCHLIGHT BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * CONTACT INFO * Searchlight BBS Version * Files available at the Searchlight web site * Feature Summary * Searchlight Benefits * Specifications * RIP Graphics * Full-Screen Editor * Menu Building * Doors System * Modem/Serial Support * Message System * Users and Security * Electronic Mail * File Transfer System * Multilanguage Support * Sysop Utilities * Expandability * System Requirements * Upgrades and Technical Support * Searchlight Software Price List --------------------------------------------- ----------------- * CONTACT INFO ----------------- Searchlight Software 6516 Detroit Avenue Cleveland, OH 44102 voice: (216) 631-9290 fax: (216) 631-9289 BBS: (216) 631-9285 orders: (800) 988-LITE WWW: http://www.searchlight.com/ The info below was updated January 1996 --------------------------- * Searchlight BBS Version --------------------------- Overview: Searchlight BBS is one of the most popular dialup BBS systems in the world. A computer, modem and phone line are all you need to set up a robust Searchlight BBS system featuring configurable menus, an easy to use graphical interface, message conferences, file libraries, email, chatting, and more. You can even install optional programs, like online databases, order entry systems and surveys. Your BBS is available to anyone with a modem -- it doesn't require a special client program or an Internet connection. ------------------------------------------------ * Files available at the Searchlight web site ------------------------------------------------ Searchlight 4.5 Demo Software (DEMO450.ZIP, 1042k). Searchlight 4.5 Documentation (DOCS450.ZIP, 237k). Various Support Files are available including upgrade patches, development tools and free add-ons. ------------------- * Feature Summary ------------------- Graphical Interface Easy to Use True GUI Interface Vector & Bitmapped Images Digital Sound Non-Proprietary Client Works with any RIP, ANSI or TTY terminal Graphical clients for Windows, DOS & Macintosh Fully Configurable Build Custom Menus Edit Prompts and Strings No complex script languages Nothing extra to buy External Doors Support Door.Sys, Dorinfo.Def, PCBoard.Sys Support Run any DOS Program Online Run Doors on the Same PC as Your BBS Fully Internet Compatible Integrated Support for Email and Newsgroups Supports Popular Telnet, FTP, WWW Addons An online demonstration system is available at (216) 631-9285. ------------------------ * Searchlight Benefits ------------------------ An Easy to Use Interface: Many BBS programs let you use the Remote Imaging Protocol (RIP) to draw menus with graphics and mouse buttons. But that’s all they do. They don’t offer true GUI features like scrollbars or pick lists. And they can’t build RIP menus, so if you change their defaults, you have to purchase a paint program and draw the new screens yourself. Searchlight 4.5 has RIP support built-in, not tacked-on. Our fully graphical RIP interface lets you use a scroll bar to navigate through message lists and file directories. You can read messages and tag files with mouse clicks and select choices from pick lists, dialog boxes and graphical menus. And since Searchlight creates RIP on the fly, you can reconfigure your system without manually redrawing the screens. We can even incorporate your favorite RIP files automatically. And Searchlight is the only BBS software that gives you Local RIP Graphics -- so you can see and use the RIP graphics interface on your computer (or any computer on your LAN). Other BBS packages make you call your BBS from another computer if you want to see RIP, and they can’t give you a RIP interface at all if you’re using a LAN. RIPterm 2.0 Support: TeleGrafx’ exciting new RIPterm 2.0 is the only non-proprietary host that supports multimedia objects like photographic quality images and sound effects -- and Searchlight 4.5 is the first BBS software to fully support RIPterm 2.0. You can display JPEG images, associate WAV sounds with events, and display any RIPterm 2.0 compatible file with Searchlight 4.5. Our configuration program makes it easy to use images and sounds without learning the RIPscrip language or using a RIP paint program. Just plug in your filenames and go! And Searchlight 4.5 supports both RIPterm 2.0 and RIPterm 1.54, so you can give your RIPterm 2.0 callers multimedia features without sacrificing support for callers using the older version of RIPterm. No other BBS software offers you this flexibility -- Searchlight does it automatically. Simple, Effective Configurability: Some BBS programs offer little or no opportunity to customize their default menus and prompts. Others make you buy add-on compilers or source code and force you to write complex program scripts to make even minor changes. Searchlight gives you simple, point and click customization so you can easily modify our menus, build new menu branches, change prompts and terminology, even redesign your entire system. Install doors and external utilities by typing the appropriate DOS commands into a form -- you don’t need to understand batch files or error levels. Install your modem with one keystroke -- we detect your modem brand and automatically make the optimal settings. Comprehensive Doors Support: A hobbyist might want to run external programs ("doors") to let callers play games. A business might need to let callers run custom applications online. Some BBS programs don’t support doors at all -- others make you purchase a shell utility (like Doorway). Searchlight supports the most popular door formats, so you can run programs made for any BBS system. And we’re the only BBS to include built-in support for DOS shells and text-based DOS programs. Just select the "direct video" option and you can run any DOS program online -- including programs like FoxPro, dBase, and Paradox or applications created with Clipper or Clarion. Internet Support: These days, the ability to interface to the global "information superhighway" is essential. Searchlight’s Uumail option offers seamless support for internet mail addresses, so you can send and receive internet messages as easily as you do local messages. Your callers don’t have to join a special conference or learn a special procedure to send internet mail. Just add a "send internet mail" button to your menu -- Searchlight does the rest! And when you’re ready to move beyond mail and usenet into the realm of ftp, telnet and world wide web, you’ll be glad that Searchlight is fully compatible and extensively field tested with quality third party internet utilities from companies like Murkworks, Zialink and Mystic Valley Communications. A Complete System: Some companies sell you a stripped down package and charge extra for the features you need most. Every copy of Searchlight 4.5 includes our menu editor and language customization tools, the most popular file transfer protocols, Fossil and DigiBoard support, a QWK mail host, a built in DOS shell and a full set of Sysop utilities. We even include a free RIP terminal that you can distribute to your callers. And now, every multi-line copy of Searchlight includes Fred Chat Central. With multiple chat rooms, line by line or split screen chatting, private chat sessions, and a dazzling RIP graphics interface, Fred is easily the hottest chat program in the BBS universe. You can’t buy Fred anywhere for any price -- but you can get it free when you order a three, ten or unlimited line copy of Searchlight BBS! Great Customer Service: Searchlight Software offers an unconditional 30 day money back guarantee with no restocking fees. If you add lines, we credit 100% of your purchase price toward the upgrade. Voice technical support is free, and it’s available both before and after the sale. ----------------- * Specifications ----------------- * RIP Graphics - RIPscrip v2.0 support. - Local RIP graphics on the BBS computer. - Automatic transfer feature that makes Searchlight faster in RIP mode by downloading frequently used menu files and icons on an as-needed basis. - Built-in RIP GUI features including scroll bars, pop-up menus and dialog boxes. - Full screen message and file browsers with mouse file tagging. - RIP menu designer and style editor. - Copy functions that allow you to easily duplicate existing RIP styles. - Automatic selection of RIP, ANSI or Ascii screens. - Regulate doors and menu choices by RIP availability or RIP version number. - Users can select large or small font for viewing and entering messages. * Full-Screen Editor - Supports most common cursor control keys, function keys and WordStar command sequences. - Uses full ANSI set for fast screen updating. - Mouse support (RIP & local). - Quote individual lines from original message. - Upload text with any internal protocol. * Menu Building - Create and edit menus with mouse-driven menu editing tool. - Copy functions that allow you to easily duplicate existing menus. - Up to 64 commands per menu with no limit to total number of menus in system. - Nest menus up to 40 levels deep. - Over 100 internal command functions can be arranged in any way you choose. - Add door programs to any menu. - Execute up to 64 commands in sequence. - Regulate access to commands and menus by 10 criteria, including RIP version. - Design custom RIP, ANSI or Ascii screens for any menu (or use built-in displays). - A point-and-click method of assigning conferences and file directories to any menu. * Doors System - Run any text based DOS application online without third-party add-on products. - FOSSIL emulation feature that lets you run doors and other programs that require a Fossil driver through Searchlight's built-in communications drivers or DigiBoard ports. - Compatible with most existing Door products. - Emulates DOOR.SYS, PCBOARD.SYS, DORINFO.DEF. - Built-in DOS shell capability. - Write your own door programs without serial programming. * Modem/Serial Support - Supports any base address and interrupt (IRQ). - 16550 buffered UART support. - FOSSIL driver support. - Support for Intelligent DigiBoard multiport cards. - Support for intelligent Equinox multiport cards. - Support for generic BIOS/INT14 drivers. - Recognizes all connect speeds up to 28,800. - Supports locked baud rates up to 115,200. - Hands-free automatic modem configuration. * Message System - An "instant reply" feature for chat messages that lets you chat without interrupting your work in progress. - No limit to number of conferences or messages per conference - "One file per conference" storage architecture offers the best combination of speed, size and reliability - Fast message searching in headers and/or text - Indexed personal message scans - Full thread maintenance including global thread operations (kill, forward, download entire threads) - Message forwarding, carbon copy, text upload & download, auto purge of old messages - Attach binary files to messages - Support for much larger messages. * Users and Security - Unlimited number of user accounts. - Encrypted user passwords for maximum security. - 24 independent security flags plus 256 levels. - Over 16 million security combinations. - Regulate access to conferences, file areas, menu choices, doors, menu branches, quoting, netmail features, and more. - Read-only conference areas. - Upload-only and download-only file directories. - Mutually exclusive security groups. - Alias names. - Caller ID logging. * Electronic Mail - True private mailboxes for each user - Read new mail automatically at log-in - Recipient name lookup and name completion - Internet address support - Multizone (4D) Netmail support - Carbon copy, alias and group names - Automatic mail logging feature * File Transfer System - Unlimited number of directories and files. - All directories indexed by name and date. - Files from multiple DOS directories may be combined into a single Searchlight directory. - Individual file passwords. - Copy, delete, rename and move files. - View internal directories of ZIP, LZH, ARJ and SQZ files. - File descriptions up to 400 lines. - Dynamic download counts in directory listings. - Tag files with mouse clicks or single-keystrokes. - Built in Zmodem, Xmodem/CRC & Xmodem/1K. - Up to 15 external protocols supported including HSLink. - Auto-processing of uploads supported. - Partial filename completion. - Improved CD-ROM handling procedure that optimizes file transfers from CD-ROM discs and other low speed media, especially on multiuser systems. - Local upload and download for LAN use. - Supports automatic FILE_ID.DIZ importing. * Multilanguage Support - Offer up to 64 languages online. - Language files can redefine some or all text prompts and menus. - Callers' language choices saved as default for future logins. - Choose from popular languages offered by Searchlight Software or create your own translations with included tools. * Sysop Utilities - All sysop functions are available from a remote location. - Most sysop functions can be run with callers online. - Purge old users & messages by date, access level, content, and other criteria. - Rename users (changes name in messages, too). - Global adjustments to user access levels & attributes. - Rebuild indexes & repair damaged files. * Expandability - Multizone Fidonet (echomail & netmail) support. - QWK offline mail module included free. - Internet mail support. - Compatible with all front-end mailers & mail tossers. - Free high-level software development kit for rapid development of new applications. * System Requirements - Minimum 350K RAM per node. - Supports most multitasking operating systems including DESQview (recommended) and OS/2. - Supports most local area network (LAN) systems with unlimited nodes on a LAN. - Supports up to 10 lines on a single PC (requires 33mhz '486, - DESQview operating system, Intelligent DigiBoard). - Internal program structure that reduces Searchlight's conventional memory footprint. * Upgrades and Technical Support - Free unlimited technical support. - Voice support available during business hours. - Continuous support via BBS, CompuServe, internet mail, and Fidonet/SL_NET conferences. - No additional charge for support BBS access. - 100% of purchase price credited toward license upgrades. ------------------------------------ * Searchlight Software Price List ------------------------------------ Here's a complete list of Searchlight Software's products and prices. You can order Searchlight products via WWW at: http://www.searchlight.com/ If you prefer to order by phone, call 1-800-988-LITE during business hours (10am to 6pm EST). Searchlight BBS Software Single Line Version .................................. $ 99 1 to 3 Line Version* ................................. $179 1 to 10 Line Version+ ................................ $299 Unlimited Line Version+ .............................. $399 * Includes FRED Chat Central + Includes Spotlight, Super Survey and FRED Chat Central Spinnaker Web Server Spinnaker Beta Release Available Now ................. $250 Spinnaker Full Release Available January 1996 ........ $495 Searchlight Products Uumail Internet Mail/News Tosser ..................... $129 Online Checks Direct ................................. $129 Spotlight User Editor/Profiler ....................... $ 35 Super Survey ......................................... $ 35 FRED Chat Central .................................... $ 25 Third-Party Products Holonet Signup Package ............................... $ 75 RIPaint Professional ................................. $180 RIPdraw .............................................. $ 35 DESQview 386 w/QEMM .................................. $125 Digiboard PC/8e ...................................... $675 License Upgrades Single to 3 Line Upgrade* ............................ $ 80 Single to 10 Line Upgrade* ........................... $200 Single to Unlimited Upgrade* ......................... $300 Three to 10 Line Upgrade ............................. $120 Three to Unlimited Upgrade ........................... $220 Ten to Unlimited Upgrade ............................. $100 * Includes FRED Chat Central =============================================================== [2.1.03] - PC BOARD BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * FEATURES * REQUIREMENTS * PCBoard ADD-ONS * PCBoard PRICING * Site License Pricing * Dealer or Reseller's * Competitive Discounts * Payments * PCBoard Order Form * Products * Contacting PCBoard * Extended BBS Support Access * INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTORS ------------------------------------------ ------------ * FEATURES ------------ - Packet switch support - Full Internationalization of dates & code page - FOSSIL support for virtually any intelligent serial card(/M code) - File attachment to messages - Multiple daily events - Full support for 2 byte international character sets - Built-in .QWK message packet support - Jukebox & "slow" CD-ROM support - Incoming Fax support - Carbon-Copy list support - Return Receipt message support - Caller-ID support - ALIAS support by conference area - RIPscrip support for remote callers - PPL (PCBoard Programming Language Compiler) (Optional) - Automatic 16550 UART recognition & support - Intelligent & non-intelligent multi-port serial card support - Full screen text editor - ANSI graphics support - Full color operation - Thread reading of messages - Supports up to 65,535 conference (message base) areas - 36 file transfer protocols supported - Supports 37,767 DOORS per conference - Real-Time 255 channel node chat (CB chat) - Long message headers for all NetMail programs including Internet, Usenet & others. - Local network logins for in-house e-mail support - Direct connect support for in-house serial networks & PADS - Communicates directly with OS/2 COMM drivers to allow large number of multiple nodes under OS/2 - Automatically detects OS/2 operation for time-slice control - Full network support for any NetBIOS compatible network, including Netware, LAN tastic, 3-Com, Vines & more. - Full remote DOS access for SysOp if desired - True & complete multi-lingual language support --------------- * REQUIREMENTS --------------- IBM PC compatible Minimum 320k RAM DOS 3.1 or higher Modem to support remote dial-in - PCBoard/M Needs 80386 CPU or higher since code is written using 80386 instructions for maximum speed. ------------------- * PCBoard ADD-ONS ------------------ * PPL Compiler The PPL Compiler allows you to change or add features to your PCBoard system. Simply write your code in a BASIC like language, compile, and attach your results to PCBoard. * PCBoard Toolkit The PCBoard Toolkit allows you to write extensive DOOR programs in either C or C++ (Borland or MS). Clark Development provides all the communication, display and file routines needed to produce a truly professional PCBoard DOOR program. PCBoard Bulletin Board Software ------------------------------- PCBoard is the premiere Host Information Systems Software (BBS Software) Available. PCBoard has been setting the standard for the BBS industry since 1983. PCBoard supports dial-in and local connections. Every package of PCBoard includes support for standard and non-standard COM ports, plus intelligent and non-intelligent multi-port hardware at no extra charge. PCBoard is available in 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 250, 1000 and 1000+ node (concurrent users) packages. PCBoard supports as many as 16 dial-in lines on a single PC using Multi-port hardware with OS/2 or DESQview. PCBoard includes support for 255 channel node chat (CB Chat), RIP Graphics, Multiple Languages, QWK Message Packets, 65,535 Conferences, and up to 36 File Transfer Protocols, etc.. Please refer to our product literature for a full description. -------------------- * PCBoard PRICING -------------------- * Site License Pricing ------------------------ Site Licences are available. Please call for additional information. * Dealer or Reseller's ----------------------- PCBoard is available from many dealers and distributors. Be sure to ask for it by name - PCBoard. * Competitive Discounts ------------------------ Competitive trade-in discounts are available. For more information please call. * Payments ------------- Payments accepted by VISA, Mastercard, American Express, Checks by Phone, Cashiers Check, Money Orders or Personal Checks. School District and Government Agency Purchase Orders are accepted. * PCBoard Order Form Effective June 1, 1996 ------------------------------------------ To: Clark Development Company, Inc. 3950 South 700 East, Ste 303 Murray, UT 84107-2173 800.356.1686 (Orders only please) 801.261.1686 (Voice) 801.261.8976 (BBS) Name: ____________________________________________________________ Business: ____________________________________________________________ Addr: ____________________________________________________________ City: _______________________________ State: ______ Zip: _______ Country: _______________________________ FAX: ______________________ Phone: _________________________ Date: ___________________ V/MC/AE #: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Exp: ______________ Print Name on Card: ___________________________________________________ Signature for credit card orders: _____________________________________ * Products DOS/WIN/OS/2 QTY ---------------------------------------------------------------------- PCBoard 2 User $ 99.00 ________ PCBoard 5 User $ 149.00 ________ PCBoard 10 User $ 199.00 ________ PCBoard 25 User $ 249.00 ________ PCBoard 50 User $ 299.00 ________ PCBoard 100 User $ 399.00 ________ PCBoard 250 User $ 499.00 ________ PCBoard 1000 User $ 999.00 ________ *** All Packages include the PCBoard Programming Language (PPLC) *** PCBoard Internet Collection (PCB/IC) $ 99.00 ________ MetaWorlds Personal Server (2 user) $ 99.00 ________ MetaWorlds Community Server (8 user) $ 249.00 ________ MetaWorlds Enterprise Server (Unlimited) $ 499.00 ________ PCBoard MetaWorlds Interface Kit $ 199.00 ________ MetaWorlds Client/Server Option $ 199.00 ________ MetaWorlds Developers Kit $ 299.00 ________ PCBoard Toolkit ($150 with PCBoard Purchase) $ 179.00 ________ DOORWAY $ 40.00 ________ PCBoard World Wide T-Shirt $ 17.50 ________ PCBoard CD-Rom $ 49.00 ________ Subtotal ________ Utah Sales tax (Utah residents only) 6.125%: ________ Shipping and Handling: Federal Express 2nd Day Air (US 48 States Only!) $ 10.00 _______ (Single item. Add $4.00 for each additional item) Federal Express Next Day Air (US 48 States only!) $ 17.00 _______ (Single item. Add $4.00 for each additional item) Alaska & Hawaii Residents add $10.00 Federal Express Canada Next Day (All major Cities) $ 28.00 _______ (Single item. Add $7.00 for each additional item) All other locations Call: _________ Total Enclosed: _________ All products above are shipped with complete printed documentation. For items not listed above, including all upgrade orders, please give us a call at 800.356.1686 or 801.261.1686 between 8:00am and 5:00pm, M-F, MT. All CDC software products are sold with a conditional 30 day money back guarantee. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with the software product, return the package to your original place of purchase for a full refund. Shipping charges are not refundable. Checks require 10 business days clearing before product shipment. ---------------------- * Contacting PCBoard ---------------------- Clark Development Company Inc. Voice: 801-261-1686 3950 South 700 East Suite 303 FAX: 801-261-8987 Murray, UT 84107-2173 Orders: 800-356-1686 http://www.pcboard.com Telnet: bbs.pcboard.com E-mail: Sales: sales@saltair.com ----------------------------- * Extended BBS Support Access ----------------------------- Extended Salt Air BBS access allows you to contact the Clark Development support BBS in Salt Lake using special dedicated phone lines which provide 2 hours of daily on-line time. ----------------------------- * INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTORS ----------------------------- BRAZIL: Alexandar Mandic Voice: 55.11.816.3245 Mandic BBS LtDA Fax: 55.11.816.3245 Rua Jerico, 39 BBS: 55.11.816.3911 Sao Paulo, SP 05435-040 Brazil DENMARK: Morten Olsen Voice: 45.32.47.30.15 Danish Key Board BBS Fax: 45.32.47.30.16 International House BBS: 45.32.47.30.40 Bellacenter 2300-S Copenhagen Denmark FRANCE: Lionel Bruno Voice: 33.1.48.99.35.35 Microtel Amiposte Fax: 33.1.48.99.43.33 71, rue Cheret BBS: 33.1.48.99.43.00 9400 Ctreeil France NETHERLANDS: Arthur Mol Voice: 31.2155.28631 The Owl's Nest Fax: 31.2155.26527 Hazepad 25 BBS: 31.2155.12571 3766 JL Soest Netherlands NORWAY: John Nordbo Voice: 47.52.717170 EuroNet Fax: 47.52.716071 Hasselgt 31 BBS: 47.52.716021 Haugesund, 5501 Norway PORTUGAL: Luis Silva Voice: 351.61.313834 MSmac, Lda Fax: 351.61.314226 R.Princesa Benedita BBS: 351.51.312935 LT 7 1 Drt 2560 Torres Vedras Portugal SAUDI ARABIA: Mohammed Albatati Voice: 966.1.478.8314 B.E.S.T PCBoard Info. Fax: 966.1.477.1908 P.O Box 2132 BBS: 966.1.478.6703 Riyadh 11451 Kingdom of Saudi Arabia SINGAPORE: Tee Tong Chiew Voice: 65.337.6213 Comsertrac Computer Centre Fax: 65.337.2952 #1 Spohia Road BBS: 65.336.5351 #06-25 Peace Centre Singapore, 0922 SOUTH AFRICA: Ian Gerada Voice: 27.11.789.6192 Fincompt Technologies Fax: 27.11.789.6081 355 Kent Avenue BBS: 27.11.482.1277 Randburg, Transvaal 2125 South Africa SPAIN: David Llamas Gaberenet Voice: 34.3.589.1101 Abaforum Fax: 34.3.589.4483 Rambla del Cellar 65 BBS: 34.3.589.3888 SantCugat, Barcelona, 08190 Spain SWEDEN: Peter Svensson Voice: 46.8.664.2557 CPS Sound & Vision Fax: 46.8.728.8430 Skeppargatan 102 BBS: 46.8.736.0410 S-115 30 Stockholm Sweden SWITZERLAND: Ueli Maurer Voice: 41.64.562.233 Hitline Communications Fax: 41.64.561.133 Hintermaettistr. 5 BBS: 41.64.560.200 Switzerland UK: Alastair Mclntyre Voice: 44.0324.482435 ALMAC Computer Services Fax: 44.0324.665155 141 Bo'ness Road BBS: 44.0324.665371 Grangemouth, Stirlingshire FK3 9BS, Scotland United Kingdom SOLVENIJA: Boris Horvat Voice: 38.61.211.553 ABM d.o.o Fax: 38.61.221.838 Ziherlova 43/40 61000 Ljubljana Slovenija =============================================================== [2.1.04] - TBBS-The Bread Board System UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [2.1.05] - WILDCAT! TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * CONTACT INFO * TECHNICAL SUPPORT * PRODUCTS AND PRICING * Wildcat! 5 for Windows 95/NT * True Client/Server Technology * So What is Client/Server? * Isn't It Complicated? * Standard Wildcat! 5 Modules * Optional Wildcat! 5 Modules * How Do I Set Up a Client/Server BBS? * How Do Callers Connect? * What Internet Services Can I Offer? * What Hardware Will I Need? * What about Novell and LANtastic Networks? * Can it Run Doors? * Release Information and Pricing * What are the Plans for the DOS Version of Wildcat!? -------------------------------------- ---------------- * CONTACT INFO ---------------- Mustang Software Inc. P.O. Box 2264 Bakersfield, CA 93303-9943 (805) 873-2500. WWW: http://www.mustang.com/ ---------------------- * TECHNICAL SUPPORT ---------------------- - Free technical support by phone Monday-Friday, 9 am-5pm Pacific Time (805) 873-2550 - Automatic notification of program updates - Software upgrades at a reduced price - 24-hour access to Support BBS - BBS access to download utilities written by Mustang software - PC Vendor Forum on CompuServe (GO PCVENA) ------------------------ * PRODUCTS AND PRICING ------------------------ - Wildcat! 4 Single Line - economical and easily installed BBS software flagship product requires only a telephone line, a personal computer and a modem. Suggested Retail Price: $129 - Wildcat! 4 MultiLine 10 - extends the functionality of Wildcat! 4 Single Line by supporting up to 10 simultaneous users through your LAN, multitasking environment or combination. Suggested Retail Price: $249 - Wildcat! 4 MultiLine 48 - has all the features of the MultiLine 10 with support for up to 48 concurrent users. Ideal solution for medium-sized LANs. Suggested Retail Price: $499 - Wildcat! 4 MultiLine Platinum - supports up to 250 concurrent users with all the features of the other MultiLine packages. Includes a complimentary one year subscription to the Platinum Customer Access Program. Suggested Retail Price: $799 - Wildcat! 4 BBS Suite - includes everything you need to set up and maintain a complete BBS environment: Wildcat! MultiLine Platinum BBS, wcPRO database utilities, wcFAX-on-demand server, wcGATE Internet/MHS mail gateway, wcCODE development toolkit and a Includes a complimentary one year subscription to the Platinum Customer Access Program. Suggested Retail Price: $999 - wcPRO Utilities - provides powerful user, message and file database maintenance capabilities. Also includes wcFAX, our fax-on-demand processor. Suggested Retail Price: $99 - wcGATE Internet/MHS Messaging Gateway - enables callers to send and receive Internet E-Mail and news from your BBS without having to know a single Internet command. Also supports satellite connections as well as Novell's MHS. Suggested Retail Price: $149 - wcCODE Custom Online Development Engine - lets you develop custom applications to enhance or change Wildcat!'s operation. BASIC-like syntax makes it easy to use the more than 250 built-in functions. Suggested Retail Price: $149 - Auto Update Plan - for those who have purchased Wildcat! 4, this is the easiest and most economical way to receive all minor updates for 12 months. Suggested Retail Price: $50/year - Platinum Customer Access Program - priority customer service plan includes priority technical support phone line answered by specially trained staff in under 5 minutes. Suggested Retail Price: $199/year - QmodemPro for Windows - winner of the 1994 Dvorak Award for Outstanding Telecommunications Technology, this product combines data, fax, and Remote Imaging Protocol (RIP) graphics into one outstanding package. Suggested Retail Price: $99 - QmodemPro for DOS - still the best DOS-based communications program on the market. Includes RIP graphics, off-line mail reader, a full line of file transfer protocols and a full-featured phonebook. Suggested Retail Price: $99 - QmodemPro for Windows/Network 5 Pack - includes a 5 user pack of QmodemPro for Windows with a network install program and support for Novell's NASI/NACS modem sharing protocol. Suggested Retail Price: $399 - Off-Line Xpress for Windows - the new Windows version of the classic Off-Line Xpress .QWK-compatible mail reader. Includes spell checker, address book, search and filtering. The perfect choice for managing your BBS mail. Suggested Retail Price: $49 -------------------------------- * Wildcat! 5 for Windows 95/NT -------------------------------- 01/16/96 * Interactive Multimedia Reaches the On-line Application Market Mustang Software is developing a system to empower the corporate, business, small office and hobbyist community to offer full on-line multimedia to customers, staff and prospects. It will be released as Wildcat! 5 for Windows 95 and Windows NT and it has entered beta testing at several hundred locations. Wildcat! 5 is a true Windows 95 or Windows NT client/server application designed to provide a BBS-based solution for a broad range of customers. It delivers an exciting interactive multimedia experience for callers by allowing the system operator to make use of familiar multimedia tools, including JPEG and GIF editors, for customization of the caller interface. For backward compatibility all aspects of the system are accessible via standard ANSI connectivity but when accessed using the free remote client, the caller is greeted with an exciting multimedia experience. The support engine for offering remote graphics to the caller is included at no additional cost, and the Wildcat! Navigator suite is slated for free distribution. Wildcat! 5 takes full advantage of the new multitasking in Windows 95 and the robust server operations in Windows NT to provide a solution for every online need. The Windows 95 platform has been selected to support small to medium load systems while the Windows NT platform was chosen to provide high performance on-line solutions utilizing its single and multi-processor support. ---------------------------------- * True Client/Server Technology ---------------------------------- The Bulletin Board System arena is the latest market segment to be courted by advertisements touting the benefits of "client/server" technology. However, upon closer inspection, "client/server" is often used to refer to the use of a proprietary remote program (the client) to dial into a BBS application (the server). While the use of a remote graphic client is an exciting aspect of many of the newer BBS technologies including Wildcat! 5, it does not represent true client/server functionality at the application program level, the location where its true power can be unleashed. ----------------------------- * So What is Client/Server? ----------------------------- Client/server, at its simplest level, is an architecture that involves client processes requesting service from server processes. Client/server computing recognizes that those client modules need not all be executed within the same memory space, that is, the processes that distribute the information need not all be a part of the same single program. Separation of the client and server modules provides improved security and performance. By implementing a BBS with a core information server, and routing that information using a number of application clients at the sysop's location, a system can be established that delivers more information at greater speed, even on a single PC running Windows 95. ------------------------- * Isn't It Complicated? ------------------------- Client/server can be as simple as running two or three familiar programs on a single PC or as intricate as a multiple-PC network running several applications on each PC. The beauty of client/server model is that once you understand the relationship between the different executable programs (the clients and the server) you can set it up in any of several ways that best meet your needs. The client/server model of Wildcat! 5 can be as simple as a server and all clients running on a single PC. The computer can operate under Windows 95 or Windows NT Workstation or Server. This configuration offers the most compact system and allows for total management from the single BBS computer. An alternative to operating all client executables on a single PC is to distribute the processing over a Microsoft Network. The server executable runs on a Windows NT (workstation or server) PC while the client modules can be run on either the server PC or networked PCs running either Windows 95 or Windows NT. The advantage of separating some client operations from the server is increased power through distributed processing. For example, in an extremely active system the sysop may find it advantageous to establish three PCs, one for the Server and TCP/IP connectivity, including WWW access, and two others, each running a rack of 32 modems with its own copy of the Modem Controller Client. Use of the client/server model provides a number of advantages: 32-bit Windows multitasking means no additional multitasking software is needed and 16-32 lines can be run easily without loading multiple copies of the BBS. The entire BBS configuration in our client/server model can be modified even while in full operation, but only by authorized personnel. The system server accepts change requests and implements them as soon as usage permits. The number of inbound sessions on a single computer is significantly increased. Thanks to the enhanced multitasking of both 32-bit Windows platforms, a much larger number of connections is possible on any given PC. As inbound access (via modem, telnet, HTTP, etc.) reaches the processor limits for any given PC, additional client PCs can be added which communicate automatically with the server. Clients for modems, HTTP, telnet and other activities can be operated on a single PC or on a variety of additional systems, depending on load. This new generation BBS can truly isolate the core of the host activities, providing secure, private system access even to local users. The server portion of the system is established in an area on disk with restricted user access. The server controls all access to messages, files and other system information. Requests are submitted to the server by all support programs and third-party utilities through an easily adopted application program interface (API). This methodology has the added advantage of allowing the actual BBS program-flow code to be written in wcCODE and to be fully customizable. True Client/server technology provides total flexibility. It allows the sysop to offer a BBS on a desktop platform and to expand the system capabilities as desired. ------------------------------------- * Standard Wildcat! 5 Modules ------------------------------------- Included With Every BBS Create a Foundation The following modules and clients come with the standard Wildcat! 5 package. * Server module This module provides the base functionality for processing all database and configuration requests through a published API structure. * Local or LAN Client This module is included with every package and is used by anyone connecting at the host PC. It can also be used by anyone on the network for local login. It is an ANSI text connection. Note that the graphical Wildcat! Navigator which is designed for remote connection also can be used locally for a graphical local connection. * Online Client This module is included with every package and answers the phone for all dial-in lines. It can present the BBS information to a caller in ANSI, ASCII or in full graphics when called with the free Wildcat! Navigator. * QWK Echo Client This module is included with every package and handles QWK mail exchange processing between the host and other BBSs. * TAPI Client This module is included with every package and provides a link to the Windows Telephony Application Program Interface. It talks to TAPI-aware add-on cards or hardware that offer ISDN, X.25 or other connectivity. * Wildcat! Navigator This module is a set of freely-distributable Windows programs for callers to experience full multimedia when connected. This program suite operates on Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT and any OS/2 release with Windows support. It can also be run locally, over a LAN or via a telnet connection. The core language of the Wildcat! Navigator is HTML, the language of the World Wide Web. --------------------------------- * Optional Wildcat! 5 Modules --------------------------------- Increase Client/Server Power The following modules are optional add-on accessories and are purchased separately. * Internet Connectivity Package This optional accessory package handles Internet connectivity and includes several individual clients: UUCP Module - This module handles Internet email and newsgroup support via UUCP. It includes a program for connecting to an internet service provider via dial or UUCPD, and tosses messages into the Wildcat! system. Callers can send and receive Internet email and participate in newsgroup message exchange. It also supports feeding messages to downline nodes. (available as part of the initial release) Telnet Module - This module enables the Online Module to also answer inbound telnet callers. It connects callers to the BBS when they connect from a remote internet site. In this mode it acts as a telnet server. With the telnet module installed the BBS also supports outbound telnet sessions requested by callers, connecting them to other locations on the internet. In this mode the BBS acts as a telnet client for the caller. Inbound telnet connections support ANSI, ASCII and the Wildcat! Navigator interface. (available as part of the initial release) FTP Module - This module enables the Online Module to also answer FTP connection requests. It responds to inbound FTP file requests and functions as a FTP server. Requests can be made anonymously for a restricted file set, or using a name and password on the BBS for FTP access to files based on the caller's access profile. This module also allows callers to make FTP requests to locations outside the BBS. (available as part of the initial release) WWW Module - This module functions as an HTTP proxy server that allows inbound callers using the Wildcat! Navigator to surf the World Wide Web. It also supports inbound HTTP connections from callers using any browser, allowing them to view the BBS HTML screens. (available as part of the initial release) PPP Module - This module allows callers to make a connection to the BBS with any Winsock layer to establish a path for true TCP/IP connectivity. With a PPP connection callers can run their choice of applications while connected to the net, including mail applications such as Eudora, other telnet clients, and browsers other than the Wildcat! Navigator, such as Netscape. (available as part of a maintenance update after initial release) Dynamic HTML Module - This module provides BBS connectivity to inbound callers connecting using a WWW browser. It functions as an HTTP server that dynamically creates HTML files for file and message data and is fed by a set of display files in HTML format customized by the sysop. (available as part of a maintenance update after initial release) SMTP Module - This module provides support for simple mail transfer protocol. It provides full management for sending and receiving internet email. (available as part of a maintenance update after initial release) * IRC Module This module provides a link to internet relay chat to expand the live discussion capabilities of the BBS. It functions as an irc client for callers. Note that standard inter-node chat is supported without this module. * NNTP Module This module provides support for network news transfer protocol messaging and processes mail from an Internet NNTP server (many providers offer nntp mail services). It provides the link to allow callers to read and reply to usenet newsgroups. * wcEXCHANGE Mail Client This optional module provides a link to Microsoft Exchange using the Windows Mail Application Program Interface. It provides a mechanism to have both email and conference mail be routed to Exchange on a local area network. * wcCODE Development Package This optional package is a new, enhanced high-speed 32-bit development language so powerful that all standard BBS functions are written in it. The wcCODE package allows the sysop to create custom BBS operations and programs to be run by the caller. * wcCODE Plus Pack For total customization of all online activity the wcCODE source for all ANSI/VT-100 BBS functions is available for purchase. (Requires wcCODE) * ODBC Database Client This optional module provides remote connectivity to database processing using the ODBC standard, accessible via wcCODE applications. * wcREPORTS [wcPRO] This optional module provides extensive reporting on BBS usage and activities. * wcBILLING This optional module provides a complete billing for pre-pay or post-pay systems. * wcSUBSCRIBE This optional module provides for online processing of credit cards and personal checks. Real-time processing requires an internet connection and batch processing is available via modem. You must have a merchant account to make use of the credit card processing, but no merchant account is required for the online check processing. ---------------------------------------- * How Do I Set Up a Client/Server BBS? ---------------------------------------- The configuration of Wildcat! 5 is very similar to the DOS Wildcat! BBS except that all configuration programs are 32-bit graphic Windows applications. Once you have run the installation and configuration programs you maintain the BBS using other Windows applications that provide functionality similar to the DOS Wildcat! MAKEMENU, MAKEWILD, MAKEQUES, wcFILE, and other support programs. --------------------------- * How Do Callers Connect? --------------------------- There are several methods for callers to connect to your Wildcat! 5 BBS and several types of presentation: Dial-in modem callers using a standard comm package receive standard ANSI screens, just like WC4. Dial-in modem callers using the free Wildcat! Navigator package receive a full graphical HTML presentation. The BBS main "page" and all other informational pages such as bulletins, etc. are created by the sysop as HTML (www) documents using any HTML editor. We expect to bundle an HTML authoring tool with the package. Telnet inbound connections using a standard telnet or comm package receive ANSI screens, just like WC4. (requires the Internet Connectivity Package) Telnet inbound connections using the Wildcat! Navigator receive a full graphical HTML presentation. (requires the Internet Connectivity Package) FTP inbound connection requests can log in as "guest" or "anonymous" for limited file access as set by the sysop, or can log in as a BBS user with the correct password for full file lists based on BBS access profiles. (requires the Internet Connectivity Package) HTTP inbound can be made using any browser (Netscape, Mosaic, etc.) and will receive dynamically generated HTML pages for files and messages, with other information and other "pages" prepared by the sysop as HTML documents. (requires the Internet Connectivity Package with the Dynamic HTML Module, expected in 2nd qtr '96). --------------------------------------- * What Internet Services Can I Offer? --------------------------------------- If you add the Internet Connectivity Package your callers can make use of a number of Internet services by dialing in using any ANSI terminal. By connecting to you over a standard phone line they are able to establish an internet email address, telnet to any other internet location, access files via ftp at any other location, and they can participate in internet newsgroup discussions. If they dial-in using the free Wildcat! Navigator they can do all the above plus surf the World Wide Web using the browser included in the Navigator. After the release of the additions to the Internet Connectivity Package expected in 2nd quarter '96, callers can expand their Internet connectivity to allow them full use of any internet applications they desire since you will be able to provide them with a PPP connection. ----------------------------- * What Hardware Will I Need? ----------------------------- Wildcat! 5 was designed to provide a platform for everything from a single line BBS to a 1,000 line corporate connectivity server. The same set of client/server modules are used in all installations. For a simple one or two line BBS the easiest installation platform would be a 486/66 PC with 8 MB of memory running Windows 95. The standard communications ports in the PC can be used and the sysop just needs to run the Server Module and the Online Client. Minimize these two programs on the desktop and your BBS is operational. To login locally you run the Wildcat! Navigator for a full graphical BBS session. As the BBS expands the sysop might add a multiport card from Digi, Comtrol, Stallion, Equinox or any other manufacturer that offers Windows 95 or NT support. A 4 or 16 port card can be installed in the same 486 PC to increase line count and the only additional hardware changes might be to add additional memory to 16 MB. The same Modem Client will handle the additional lines with the installation of a line count increase module. Further expansion of the BBS can be accomplished in many ways. As line count increases the power of the PC can be increased to handle the added load by moving to a Pentium 90-120 MHz CPU. With the technology available today it is entirely possible to operate a single-box PC that can address hundreds of incoming lines and other connections by taking advantage of the multi-processor capabilities of the Windows NT platform. Multiport cards from 16 to 128 ports are readily available for the NT platform. For those that would rather make use of a LAN environment for BBS connectivity, Wildcat! 5 also has a solution. By using Windows NT (Server or Workstation) the sysop can establish a server PC that handles the core server duties and allows separate PCs to handle different aspects of the remote connection. Each Client module can be operated on a networked PC running Windows 95 or NT, and will communicate with the server PC automatically. No messy drive mappings and no specific Networking components are required, other than those that come with Windows NT (workstation or server) and Windows 95. This type of distributed processing system really make sense for large systems with several different types of access, including local, TCP/IP, modem, X.25 and ISDN. Different client processes can be run on less-powerful PCs depending on their load. --------------------------------------------- * What about Novell and LANtastic Networks? --------------------------------------------- Wildcat! 5 is totally compatible with NetWare or LANtastic. A workstation PC on a LAN can run Windows 95 or Windows NT and operate the complete BBS. Other LAN PCs can access the BBS using the Local/LAN client. Although the BBS PC can access files located on the NetWare or LANtastic server drives, all BBS server and client files must be located on PCs running NT or 95 with the exception of the downloadable files, which can be located anywhere on the LAN. The same cabling for NetWare or LANtastic connectivity (ethernet is assumed) is automatically used by the Windows networking to share BBS client/server data using TCP/IP. ---------------------- * Can it Run Doors? ---------------------- Wildcat! 5 supports DOS-based doors on all port connections, and includes a program for DOS program redirection. However, operation of 16-bit DOS doors does limit the number of lines that can be supported on any given PC. Programs specifically written in the new 32-bit wcCODE are an exception, and do not cause this system degradation. Testing is the only method to determine the actual impact of a specific DOS door on your Wildcat! 5 system. Each DOS door affects system performance differently depending on the language it was developed in and what resources it uses. * Doors under Windows NT Doors do not require any modification and operate in their own memory session for each node. Door operation is virtualized, a process that isolates the door itself from the port, and prevents it from knowing whether it is talking to a standard com port, a DigiBoard or a telnet connection. All doors all think they are talking to a standard COM 1. For specifics on how to run doors, see Part 2 of this document. * Doors Under Windows 95 Doors must be able to talk to the actual port in use for each node via DOS. Unless the door is written in wcCODE it will not be able to access multiport boards that use a Windows 95 driver. For specifics on how to run doors, see Part 2 of this document. ------------------------------------- * Release Information and Pricing ------------------------------------- No specific release date has been set for Wildcat! 5, but the target date is early 1996. The majority of the program modules are expected to be available in 1st quarter `96 but some optional modules will not become available 2nd quarter or later. The Wildcat! Navigator will be posted for download and wide-area testing in January. A patch upgrade to the wcSERVER component of the Preview CD ROM will also be made available at that time to enable CD owners to make use of the Wildcat! Navigator for their callers. Product MSRP 75% off 66.6% off Availability ------------------------------ ---- ------- --------- -------------- Wildcat! 5 M2 (2 node + local) $149 $ 37 $ 49 1st qtr.`96 Wildcat! 5 M16 (16 node) $349 $ 87 $115 1st qtr.`96 Wildcat! 5 M32 (32 node) $699 $174 $230 1st qtr.`96 8 Pack Node Increase $199 $ 49 $ 65 1st qtr.`96 32 Pack Node Increase $699 $174 $233 1st qtr.`96 wcEXCHANGE Module $499 $124 $169 1st qtr.`96 wcCODE Development Lang. & IDE $149 $ 37 $ 49 1st qtr.`96 wcCODE Plus Pack $349 $ 87 $115 1st qtr.`96 Internet Connectivity Package $249 $ 62 $ 83 1st/2nd qtr.`96* NNTP Module ------to be set----- 2nd qtr.`96 IRC Module $149 $ 37 $ 49 2nd qtr.`96 ODBC Database Client $799 $199 $265 2nd qtr.`96 wcREPORTS [wcPRO] $149 $ 37 $ 49 2nd qtr.`96 wcBILLING $149 $ 37 $ 49 2nd qtr.`96 wcSUBSCRIBE $ 99 $ 24 $ 33 2nd qtr.`96 * Portions of this product will be added following the initial release, see previous text for details. key - MSRP - Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price 75% off - to participants in the special Pre-Release CD program 66.6% off - to any Wildcat! sysop with a valid registration number ----------------------------------------------------- * What are the Plans for the DOS Version of Wildcat!? ----------------------------------------------------- The current DOS version of Wildcat! will continue to be supported and updated by its own separate team of engineers. We have no current plans for a native OS/2 BBS system and do not anticipate such development in the foreseeable future. NOTE: The products & prices above were listed on the Wildcat! web page January 1996. =============================================================== [2.1.06] - TSX-BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * The Multi-line Solution * Super System Capacity * Reliable, Non-stop Operation * A Sysop's Dream * Door Program Support * Flexibility is the Key * Use TPL to Extend Your System * File Libraries * Personal File Workspaces * Newsgroups and Discussion Forums * Direct Internet Access * Incoming Telnet and FTP Access * Incoming SLIP Connections * World Wide Web * E-Mail * On-line "Chat" * System Security * System Control * TSX-BBS Is a Complete System * Hardware Requirements * A Company Dedicated to Service * TSX-BBS Price List ============================================ -------------------------- * The Multi-line Solution -------------------------- Today you may want to start a single line BBS, but you dream of rivaling CompuServe someday. TSX-BBS will take you there. TSX-BBS supports up to 256 lines on a single computer using intelligent serial multiplexers. With traditional multi-node bulletin board systems you had two unpleasant choices. You could either run a copy of the BBS software on a separate computer for each node, or you could use a multi- tasker such as Windows or DesqView to run several copies of the BBS on a single computer. Buying a separate computer for each node is expensive and you have to set up a network to link the computers together. While it may be acceptable for a 2-4 line system, if you plan to grow in the future you need to think about what the expense and management will be like when you reach 16 or 50 lines. The multi-tasking approach avoids the expense of buying multiple computers and the expense and trouble of setting up a network connection, but running multiple copies of a single-line BBS system with a multi-tasker is very inefficient and usually provides unacceptable performance for more than a couple of lines. TSX-BBS is the solution. Designed from the ground up as a multi- line operating environment, TSX-BBS can support up to 256 lines on a single computer. The reason TSX-BBS can do this is that it runs in 32-bit protected mode for maximum efficiency and uses a patented adaptive scheduling algorithm that gives immediate priority to users who need service. So, instead of a room full of computers, you can have a single sytem running TSX-BBS connected through an intelligent serial multiplexer to many modem lines. For medium to large installa- tions, this could save thousands (or even tens of thousands) of dollars in hardware expenses, not to mention the complexity of maintaining a large networked system. Another advantage of a multi-line TSX-BBS system is that it provides a smooth growth path. Many systems run well for one or two lines, but when you grow you will hit a barrier that necessi- tates a radical change. With SX-BBS, you can start out with a small system and grow smoothly to an enormous system. ------------------------ * Super System Capacity ------------------------ Suppose your dreams are so big that you think you will outgrow a single computer no matter how efficient the software is. Relax, TSX-BBS will take care of you. For extremely large configurations, TSX systems can be networked together so that you can grow without bounds. With its TCP/IP networking option, you can link multiple TSX systems together. Any program on any computer in the network can transparently access any file. Because TSX networking uses a peer-to-peer model, you do not have to dedicate a computer as a "file server". All computers in the network can store files and run the TSX-BBS system. ------------------------------- * Reliable, Non-stop Operation ------------------------------- If you are running a single-line hobby board it may be acceptable to take the system down periodically for maintenance and improve- ments. But, if you are serious about running a professional quality board, you need a BBS system that will run reliably, non- stop, 24-hours a day. TSX-BBS is such a system. All of the BBS maintenance functions such as adding and modifying user authorizations, reviewing and posting new uploads, and backing up files can be done without stopping the BBS or interrupting your users. You can do new program development using the TPL language, C, Pascal, or the language of your choice, while the BBS is in full operation. You can develop and test menu changes without interrupting your users. And, the sysop (or properly authorized users) can open development and maintenance from dial-in connections as well as from the local console. Routine operations such as new user registrations are completely automatic. Internet Usenet newsgroups, Fido echoes, and netmail processing is automatic with messages being posted in real-time as they arrive. TSX-BBS can even be configured to automatically create new Fido and Usenet newsgroups without sysop intervention. You can literally take a vacation without most of your users being aware that your board is unattended. ------------------ * A Sysop's Dream ------------------ With other multi-line BBS systems, the computer is dedicated to running the BBS software and the sysop must use auxiliary computers for tasks such as viewing uploaded GIF files, running "door" programs, and processing incoming satellite feeds. TSX-BBS is the only multi-line BBS system that lets the sysop run DOS programs, view GIF's, do file maintenance, and run games while the BBS is live on the same PC. The same computer that is running TSX-BBS can process incoming satellite data including Usenet feeds and add it to your board in real-time. Since most DOS programs such as WordPerfect, dBase, Foxpro, CSHOW, and Procomm run under TSX with the BBS in operation, you can run your business on the same computer and at the same time that you run your BBS. Using the HOST program that is provided with TSX, or your own favorite communications program, you can call other systems and upload and download files while your BBS is running on the same computer. ------------------------ * Door Program Support ------------------------ "Door" programs are applications designed to run in cooperation with a BBS to provide extended services such as games. Because traditional multi-line BBS systems dedicate the computer to running the BBS software, they are unable to execute popular door applica- tions. TSX-BBS, on the other hand, can execute door programs on the same computer with the BBS. And, many users can run doors at the same time. TSX-BBS takes care of the details of creating a DOOR.SYS "drop" file with user information. --------------------------- * Flexibility is the Key --------------------------- Successful computer bulletin boards evolve over time. As your system grows and you acquire new users and add more lines, you will develop new ideas for improvements and new features. It is important that you select a BBS package that allows you to customize your system and doesn't box you in with fixed menus and no way of adding extensions. TSX-BBS comes with a complete set of menus and support programs so it is easy to get up and running the same day you receive it, but it doesn't hold you back when you are ready to do your own development and customization. Virtually every menu, phrase, and color can be changed. Some sysops like very flamboyant menus, others prefer more reserved ones; have it your way. With a little creative effort you can configure TSX-BBS to present exactly the image you desire. And, you will find that this customization is surprisingly easy; we give you the tools and materials, you can put them together in many different ways. TSX-BBS comes with an advanced menu compiler that allows you to modify any of the standard menus and create new menus of your own design. You can change the menu tree structure, change the wording of menu options, translate them to foreign languages, add and re- move menu items, and integrate text from ANSI and RIP editors. TSX-BBS menus are organized into three sections: initialization, display, and action. The initialization section is optional, if present it allows you to specify actions that are to be performed each time the menu is entered. You can use this section to write information to log files, start programs, and perform other tasks. Conditional expressions allow you to perform different actions based on the user and many other conditions. The display section contains the menu image that is presented to the user. You can put the text in the menu source file or you can display an external file that may have been created with an ANSI editor. TSX-BBS allows you to place commands of the form "@com- mand@" within the menu text to select colors, do cursor position- ing, and check conditions. You can also use these commands to cause TSX-BBS to insert parameters such as the caller's name, the time, the date, the remaining time available, and many other values. This makes it easy to create personalized menus and status displays. The action section of a menu specifies what actions are to be performed when a user types a letter or command. All of the inherent BBS functions are available as "building blocks" for you to use, such as browsing file libraries, entering chat, reading new mail, etc. (there are over 85 actions). In addition, actions can call other menus or execute external programs that you write. The following is an example of a menu action section: $item key=C action=menu(chat) $item key=F action=menu(file) $item key=V action=vote $item key=W action=who $item key=G action=logoff You can design menus that present options to some users and not others based on privilege flags. Entirely different menus can be selected based on capabilities such as ANSI, color and RIP. You can even have menu options that appear only on certain days of the week or during certain hours of the day. For the finest level of customization you can change the phrases and colors presented by each "building block" menu action. This is especially useful for creating bulletin boards to serve users who prefer a language other than English. Don't let your users down. You can enhance and upgrade your system while it is running continuously, 24-hours day. You can create your own test menus while your users continue to run with the production menus. When you are ready, you can add the new menus to the production system without taking the BBS down or even in- terrupting on-line users. You can even configure TSX-BBS to present experimental menus and features on selected lines or for selected users only. -------------------------------- * Use TPL to Extend Your System -------------------------------- The optional TSX Programming Language (TPL) is the ideal tool for writing extensions to TSX-BBS. You can also use TPL or developing your own application programs. Using TPL, you can develop plug-in enhancements to your BBS that are a seamless part of the system. If you are so inclined, you can use TPL to develop extensions and commercial applications that can be marketed in source or object- language form to other TSX-BBS sites. TPL is a powerful programming language with a C-like syntax. TPL includes integer, real, and string variables and constants. The string variables are especially powerful because they have dynamic size so you never have to reserve a fixed size area to hold a value. You can also write string functions that accept and return strings of varying sizes. The TPL language includes over 300 built-in library functions. Many of these functions perform BBS operations such as adding files to the BBS file libraries or getting information about registered BBS users. It is easy to write TPL programs to add new files using the FILE_ID.DIZ descriptions so that you do not have to type multi- line descriptions. You can also write TPL programs to produce reports such as a list of the most frequently downloaded files, or a list of users whose accounts will expire during the next month. A communication "script" facility is integrated into the TPL language. You can write TPL programs that dial other bulletin boards, check for new files, download files, and add them to your BBS file library; this can be done while your BBS is in operation and without intervention on your part. Because the communication script facility is an integral part of the TPL language, all of the other language features are available such as dynamic string variables, functions, file I/O, and X/Y/Z-modem transfers. You can schedule scripts (and other TPL programs) to run at specified times of the day. ----------------- * File Libraries ----------------- A good file library facility is important for most bulletin boards and is the primary reason for existence for many. TSX-BBS provides a world class file library. You can set up any number of file areas and organize them in hierachical categories (CD-ROMs, IBM files, Macintosh, etc.). File descriptions can be up to 16 lines long and TSX-BBS stores extended information about each file in- cluding the date and time when it was uploaded, the name of the person who uploaded the file, the number of times that the file was downloaded, and the date of the last download. Users can download files one at a time or they can tag files while browsing and then download them as a group. Daily download byte and time limits can be set for each user. TSX-BBS includes a powerful file search facility. Users can search file names and descriptions for single words or for words joined with the logical operators 'AND' and 'OR'. For example, a valid search expression is "GAMES AND WINDOWS", or "HIV OR AIDS". A date search allows users to find files uploaded since the last time they checked or since a specified date and time. The search can span all file areas or can be restricted to specified areas. A "privilege expression" is used to control acces to each file area (see "System Security," below). For each file area, users can be restricted to the following types of access: 1. No access whatsoever (they do not even know the area exists) 2. List the file names and descriptions 3. Download files from the area 4. Upload to the area The sysop can set up a private upload area for all user uploads so that the files can be examined before being publicly posted. It is easy to set up private file areas for groups of users or companies that may want to use your board as a support center. ----------------------------- * Personal File Workspaces ----------------------------- In addition to file libraries, the sysop may authorize users to store files in a "personal file workspace". This is a private directory for the user's personal use. It is also possible for several users to share the same workspace. Each user can be disallowed from using a workspace, authorized to use a temporary workspace which is deleted when the user logs off, or allowed to have a permanent workspace. The sysop may place limits on the size of each user's personal file workspace. ----------------------------------- * Newsgroups and Discussion Forums ----------------------------------- TSX-BBS includes a powerful message storage and retrieval system that is ideal for Usenet newsgroups, Fido echoes and other types of discussion forums. The message system can efficiently store and recall messages from thousands of message areas making it ideal for major Usenet storage sites. The maximum number of messages and message areas is limited only by available disk space. Message text compression is performed automatically to reduce disk space requirements. Messages are organized in a hierarchical (tree-structured) fashion. The top level can have categories such as Usenet and Fido. Within the Usenet group there might be subcategories such as "alt" and "comp". Within usenet.alt you would find additional subsub- categories, etc. Users can explore the areas by moving up and down through the hierarchical levels or by browsing the full set of forums as an alphabetical list. By using sophisticated indexing techniques, TSX-BBS is able to provide virtually instantaneous access to any message area. Users can locate message areas by doing searches for words in the area name. Users also can search for messages containing specified words and expressions in the body of the message. Within an area, messages are sorted by their creation date (rather than the date they were received by the board). Messages on the same topic are grouped into "threads" making it easy to follow an exchange of messages. TSX-BBS keeps track of the last message read in each area so that users can easily read new messages in forums with many messages. Reading messages in one area does not affect the last-message-read pointer for other areas. The sysop can also create "anonymous forums". Messages posted on anonymous forums do not identify the sender but rather show a system generated name such as "Anon-8721457". Other users can respond to anonymous messages using private e-mail and the replies hide the identity of the person making the reply in the same fashion. Thus users can exchange anonymous messages before deciding to reveal their actual names. A "privilege expression" (see "System Security") can be associated with each area to control which users can access the area. This makes it easy to set up adult discussion forums and to create private forums for groups that are using the board as a message exchange system. Forum access restrictions are especially useful for Usenet which has a number of newsgroups which are not suitable for general distribution. A QWK facility is built into TSX-BBS to provide efficient downloading of messages for off-line readers. A touch of a key invokes the TSX-BBS full-screen message editor to compose a new message or a reply. When writing a reply, the original message is shown in a split screen window and original text can be quickly cut and pasted into the reply. There are "tosser" programs available to process incoming Fido and Usenet messages. At the option of the sysop, new message areas (categories) can be created automatically by the tosser when messages arrive for areas that did not previously exist. The sysop can block all automatic area creation or can enable it only for subcategories of selected areas. Fido and Usenet messages can be received via Satellite transmission and posted to forums in real-time while the system is running and users are browsing forums. Fido messages can also be received by FrontDoor dial-up type arrangements. NNTP (Network News Transport Protocol) is supported for receiving and posting Usenet messages through direct Internet connections. -------------------------- * Direct Internet Access -------------------------- In addition to Internet mail (SMTP) and Usenet newsgroups, TSX-BBS offers direct, interactive access to the Internet using FTP and Telnet. The File Transfer Protocol (FTP) program allows you to browse through files on other computers connected to the Internet. Once you have found a file of interest, FTP transfers the file to a personal workspace directory on the TSX-BBS system. You can then use X/Y/Z-Modem to download the file from the TSX-BBS work area to the local computer. A unique batch FTP facility is available in addition to direct, on-line FTP access. With the batch FTP facility, users browse through lists of files for FTP archives and tag those files that they want. They then submit a batch FTP request that connects to the selected site(s) and transfers the files to the user's workspace. The user does not have to be connected to the BBS while the batch operation is taking place; they can log in later and download the files. They can even submit requests to run at specified times. Browsing this way is much faster than direct Internet connections because the index files are stored on the BBS computer. Users can also perform wildcard file searches through the lists of files and tag entries that are found by the search. Telnet is a terminal emulator program that you can use to log onto another computer connected to Internet. With Telnet you can be an interactive user on computers around the world. FTP and Telnet run as "native" programs on the same computer that is running TSX-BBS. There is no need to buy a separate, dedicated Internet server computer. You can provide your users with full Internet access and do it all with a single computer system. TSX-BBS allows Internet connections through both high-speed Ethernet connections and dial-up SLIP connections. TSX-BBS can be configured to dial an Internet provider automatically. * Incoming Telnet and FTP Access Users around the world can also access your BBS through Telnet. They run Telnet on their remote computers and specify your BBS as the Internet host address. They can then log on and access your BBS just as dial-in users do. If you wish, you can set up file areas that are accessible via FTP through the Internet. This allows users to download information and files that you wish to make available -- you become an Internet archive site. TSX includes a comprehensive file access control system so you can designate which directories and files are accessible to users. You can authorize an "anonymous" FTP account with very restricted access and authorize other accounts (with passwords) that have more general access. You can also designate directories into which users can deposit incoming files via FTP. * Incoming SLIP Connections If you have an Internet connection, you can resell Internet connections to your users. Your users can call your BBS, log on, and then shift their connection from ASCII to SLIP (Serial Line Interconnect Protocol). They are then connected o the Internet through your BBS and they can run programs such as Mosaic, Netscape, FTP, and Telnet on their local computers to access sites on the Internet. You can limit which users are authorized for SLIP access and the BBS daily time limits apply to SLIP connections. * World Wide Web There are both server and client programs for TSX-BBS to provide World Wide Web (WWW) services. You can design your own "home page" and allow others around the world to access your site to obtain information. Your BBS users can access WWW using Mosaic or Netscape with direct SLIP connections. ASCII mode callers can use the TSX-BBS Lynx or line-mode WWW browsers that run as a component of TSX-BBS. ---------- * E-Mail ---------- TSX-BBS has a full e-mail system that users can use to exchange private messages. In addition to posting local messages to each other, the TSX-BBS mail system supports Internet (SMTP) mail and Fido Netmail messages. Users can defined synonymous names for themselves. In this case a message arriving with any matching syonymous name is delivered to the user. This is especially useful for companies that wish to designate an individual to receive messages addressed to "sales", "support", "info", etc. Each user has a private "file folder" to store messages they wish to save. Users also have private address books where they can store addresses. The address book can be used for e-mail (local, Internet, and Fido addresses) as well as Telnet and FTP Internet site addresses. ---------------- * On-line "Chat" ---------------- A popular multi-line BBS feature is real-time conferencing, "Chat". Chat allows users to set up round-table conferences where they can carry on multi-party discussions in real-time. TSX-BBS chat allows the sysop to create permanent discussion topics; users can create temporary chat areas that are deleted automatically when the last user leaves the area. The chat system features split screen mode which allows users to view the ongoing conversation while composing their own contributions. Both public and private chat groups are support. An user can join a public group. Private groups are created when one user invites other users into a private conference. Only invited users can join a private chat. The sysop can set up "action verbs" such as "hug", "kiss", "kick", etc. that users can use to indicate actions or feelings toward other users. ------------------ * System Security ------------------ TSX-BBS allows the sysop to set many privilege and limit values for each user. Controls such as daily time limit, download file limit, and use of individual system functions such as the file library, E- mail, chat, QWK, etc. may be set for each individual user. To simplify management, the sysop may also define user "classes" which describe sets of limits and privileges. A class can then be assigned to a user, changing each of the users limits and privileges to those of the class. The TSX-BBS user privilege system is simple but extremely powerful. Each user is assigned a "security level" that ranges from 0 to 65535. In addition, there are 80 sysop-defined privilege flags that may be turned on or off. The meaning for each privilege flag may be assigned by the sysop. The privilege flags can be used in privi- lege expressions along with the security level and other condi- tional tests such as the date, time, day of the week, etc. TSX-BBS privilege expressions can include multiple logical items with 'AND' and 'OR' logical operators and parentheses for grouping. For example, the following privilege expression is true for a user who has a security level equal to or greater than 50 or has privilege flag 1 enabled: "(PRIVLEV>=50||P1)". The following privilege expression is true only on Saturday: "(DAYOFWEEK==7)". In addition to the security level and privilege flags, the sysop can also assign a "group" number to users. This can be used to set up private file and message areas accessible only to members of the group. This is extremely useful for commercial BBS operations that provide support areas for various companies or organizations. ----------------- * System Control ----------------- TSX-BBS comes with a "SYSOP" program that provides comprehensive control over your system. With the "dashboard" display you can monitor which lines are in use, what users are on-line, and what activities are taking place. The sysop can also "spy" on user sessions. Real-time statistics displayed include the number of logons, new user authorizations, files uploaded and downloaded, messages sent and received, door programs executed, and overall system loading. The sysop can examine and modify user authorization entries, change privileges and examine usage statistics while the system is running. Statistics kept for each user include the date of the user's first and last logons, the total connect time, bytes up- loaded and downloaded, and information about the current day's usage. Log files can be enabled to record even more detail including the date and time of each file upload and download. The sysop can examine and edit file descriptions and monitor file download counts. A cut-and-paste clipboard makes it easy to move files from one file area to another. All of this can be done while the system is in full operation. The SYSOP program can be run from the console and from dial-in lines by properly authorized users. -------------------------------- * TSX-BBS Is a Complete System -------------------------------- When you buy TSX-BBS you get a complete, integrated system. TSX- BBS includes a world-class multi-user, multi-tasking environment with built-in 32-bit memory management, preemptive task scheduler, disk caching, DPMI, and background batch jobs. The basic system includes the file librarian, mail, forums, voting, QWK, and classi- fied ads, all without having to buy third-party add-ons. Optional components are Chat, Fido and Usenet support, the TPL programming language, networking, FTP, Telnet, and NFS. ------------------------ * Hardware Requirements ------------------------ TSX-BBS requires a 386, 486, or Pentium computer with a minimum of 8MB of memory and 15MB of disk space available for the system software. ISA, EISA, and MCA (PS/2) bus architectures are supported. Supported disk controllers include IDE and the fol- lowing SCSI models: Adaptec 1542, 1742, 2742, and 2842. Adaptec compatible SCSI controllers such as those made by Buslogic are also supported. CD ROM drives are supported provided they are connected to a supported SCSI disk controller. Network connections require the use of SMC Ethernet controllers. Serial communication is supported through "dumb" COM ports and multi-port adapters (550 buffered UARTs are required for high-speed operation) and the following "intelligent" serial multiplexers: Digiboard, Maxpeed, Arnet. --------------------------------- * A Company Dedicated to Service --------------------------------- S&H Computer Systems has been in the business of developing multi- user solutions since 1975. With over 20,000 satisfied customers you can rest assured that we have the expertise and experience to produce the finest quality systems software in the world. We have a staff of knowledgeable support technicians who are ready and able to help you install TSX-BBS and answer any questions once you are up and running. Many of our customers have told us that our software support is the finest hey have ever used. And, unlike many other software companies, our top developers maintain frequent contact with our customers, listening to their ideas of how our products can be improved. For assistance in ordering a demonstration or production system, or for further technical information, contact the S&H sales department. A demonstration shareware version of TSX-Lite and TSX-BBS can be downloaded from the S&H support BBS at 615-320-1820. These files can be also be obtained using anonymous FTP from sandh.com (they are in the TSXLITE directory). S&H Computer Systems, Inc. 1027 17th Avenue South Nashville, TN 37212 USA Voice: 615-327-3670 BBS: 615-320-1820 FAX: 615-321-5929 CompuServe: 71333,27 Internet: 71333.27@compuserve.com The S&H logo, TSX-BBS, TSX-32, TSX-Net, TSX-Term, Edit-32, MessageNet & Advanced MessageNet, are trademarks of S&H Computer Systems, Inc. Other product names are trademarks of their respective owners. S&H Computer Systems, Inc. makes no contractual obligation regarding this product, either expressed or implied, and reserves the right to modify this product and add or remove features. ------------------------ * TSX-BBS Price List ------------------------ Effective 1 March 1995 ($US) Product Price (1) TSX-BBS (2) Two-Line $300 Four-Line $450 Eight-Line $650 Sixteen-Line $950 Thirty Two-Line $1,550 Sixty Four-Line $2,050 Professional (for each additional 32 lines) (3) $1,000 TSX-Term (4) $185 TSX-BBS Add-Ons Chat $100 TPL $100 FidoNet Mailer Interface (5) $75 Usenet News Satellite Interface (6) $150 Internet Connect (7) $1,000 Dial-in SLIP (8) $500 TSX-Net (9) $250 NFS Server (10) $500 Disk Shadowing (11) Local $1,150 Remote $7,500 TSX-BBS Evaluation (12) $120 Prices are subject to change without notice; Tennessee residents must add applicable sales tax; All licenses are subject to the terms and conditions of S&H's Software License Agreement. Notes 1. Includes: single cpu license, documentation, media, domestic shipping, free access to S&H support BBS and an initial perio of free telephone consultation and updates (licensee pays for media, documentation and shipping). For TSX-BBS 2 through 16 line licenses, the period is 90 days; for 32 and more line licenses, 1 year. Add-On products' support is determined by the underlying TSX-BBS. 2. Includes: Systems Operator (9 sessions) and specified number of concurrent BBS user lines (1 session each); X, Y & Z MODEM; intelligent multiplexer drivers, dial out, call-back verification, file librarian, mail, forums, voting, QWK, RIP upport and classified ads. 3. Add to the Thirty Two-Line price in order to support more lines in increments of 32. 4. Includes: license for use on all PCs connecting to the licensed TSX-BBS system. 5. Tosser/Scanner interface for 3rd party FidoNet mailers such as "Frontdoor" or "Intermail". 6. Satellite interface and tosser for Usenet News and FidoNet feeds. Consult TSX Compatible Interfaces for supported satellite services. 7. Includes: TSX-Net , Network Utilities (FTP, Batch FTP, TELNET, LYNX & CERN Web browsers, SMTP, NNTP, Domain Name Server), Phone-Net Dial-Out SLIP, and TPL . Requires supported TSX-BBS. 8. Includes: multiple serial dial-in SLIP connections to the Internet through TSX-BBS. Requires Internet Connect. 9. Includes: TCP/IP & SLIP, Berkeley Sockets, support for networking interface cards (consult TSX-BBS Compatible Interfaces). 10. Includes: NFS server software. Ethernet recommended. Requires TSX-Net Peer-to-Peer TCP/IP. 11. Local: for one computer. Remote: for two networked TSX-BBS systems. Require supported TSX-BBS, Network requires TSX-Net. 12. Thirty day evaluation of TSX-BBS in both multi-line and multi-line/multi-node configurations. Includes free unlimited telephone consultation for 30 days. Full credit for purchase price when a TSX-BBS license is purchased within 90 days. =================================================================== [2.1.07] - POWERBOARD TOPICS IN THIS SECTIONS: * Your Own On-Line Service! * What about Internet Connectivity? * Can I have a slick Windows interface? * I'm new to this! I'm not sure which package I should buy. * TECH SPECS * ADD-ON SUPPORT * INTERNET SUPPORT * QWK AND OFFLINE MAIL SUPPORT * OPERATING SYSTEM SUPPORT * MULTINODE SUPPORT * USER INTERFACE * CONFIGURABILITY * PROGRAMMABILITY * Other Highlights * NuIQ SOFTWARE'S POWERBOARD FIRST BBS TO SUPPORT WIP PROTOCOL * Windows Interface Protocol (WIP) - An Overview * ORDER FORM * CONTACT INFORMATION FOR NuIQ SOFTWARE -------------------------------------------- --------------------------- * Your Own On-Line Service! --------------------------- You know what you want to do. You want to create your own on-line service. All you need now is the tool that will let you do it. The name of that tool is Powerboard. With the Powerboard software, you can build your own on-line service in a very short amount of time. A basic system that is already customized with your system's name in display screens can be set up in less than ten minutes from when you open the box! Customizing your system is just as simple. All the utilities you need are included. A few keystrokes in the built-in menu editor is all it takes to add an option to a menu. Want to draw your own display screen? Simple. Just use our built-in ANSI drawing software! File area management couldn't be simpler with our included FileEdit software. Powerboard does everything with the same straightforward approach. ----------------------------------- * What about Internet Connectivity? ----------------------------------- Do you want to connect your system to the Internet? Why not use our built-in UUCP program? With UUCP2PB, you can carry Usenet newsgroups and Internet e-mail without even having a direct connection to the Internet. We also offer the BBSNet software as an add-on. Call us for more information on BBSNet, the software that lets you offer telnet-in, telnet-out, gopher, wais, and more on your BBS! --------------------------------------- * Can I have a slick Windows interface? --------------------------------------- Offering a Windows® interface that works and looks like America Online® with Powerboard is a snap. The system comes with ready-made WIP (Windows Interface Protocol) display screens, already customized with your system's name. Powerboard's menu editor will, at your request, draw new WIP screens for you (automatically!) when you add, change, or remove an option from a menu, or create a new menu. We also offer the DC Interface Builder for those who want the ability to completely customize the WIP interface on their system. Call us for details on the DCIB. ----------------------------------------------------------- * I'm new to this! I'm not sure which package I should buy. ----------------------------------------------------------- The only thing that's easier than using our software is buying it! If you're new to the on-line scene and you're not planning to run your system for business purposes, you should buy our Powerboard 2.0 Standard Edition product. PB/Standard supports up to four incoming phone lines (up to four users can be on the system at once) and it comes with all the utilities you'll need to operate your BBS with power and ease. If you're an experienced SysOp (system operator) or are using the system for business, buy the Powerboard 2.0 Professional Edition package. PB/Pro supports up to ninety-nine incoming phone lines (up to 99 simultaneous users), and comes with all the utilities the PB/Standard package comes with plus the Powerboard Developers' Kit, BitRip .BMP to .RIP Conversion Software (which lets you draw screens for your system in your favorite drawing program), TimeChart System Usage Bulletin Creator (to create graphs showing when people call your system), and more! Powerboard/Standard costs $99 plus shipping, and Powerboard/Pro costs $249 plus shipping. Become part of the on-line revolution and order Powerboard today! ---------------- * TECH SPECS ---------------- * ADD-ON SUPPORT All Standard Doors Supported! Drop files outputted: DOOR.SYS and DORINFO.DEF drop file standard used by thousands of doors. Examples of supported doors: DC GENESYS graphical online database; TRADEWARS multiplayer strategy game, Help Wanted USA employment database. Because standard interface is used, many add-ons made for other BBS software programs can be run on the Powerboard system. * INTERNET SUPPORT USENET Newsgroups and Internet E-Mail via the included UUCP2PB software. For example, one application is to provide your users with an Internet account (i.e. john.smith@yourbbs.com). Full internet support via BBSNet add-on. * QWK AND OFFLINE MAIL SUPPORT BUILT-IN .QWK MAIL DOOR allows your callers to log on to the system, download a packet including unanswered mail/messages that were waiting for them, a new file listing, and system bulletins. (Saves your callers' phone bills and makes your system available for a higher number of callers per day). .QWK BASED MAIL NETWORKS such as Qnet are supported with Powerboard. If you want to set up a small network between a few BBS', you can do it with the software that's included in the Powerboard package. * OPERATING SYSTEM SUPPORT Powerboard operates under Intel-based systems and compatables. Multitasking environments (for running multiple nodes on one machine) supported include OS/2, Windows95, Windows NT, and DESQview. For local area networks (LANs), Powerboard supports netbios compatible systems such as LANtastic, Novell, and Lanus, as well as Windows networks. * MULTINODE SUPPORT There are many possible ways to run a multi-node system using the Powerboard software. On systems running eight nodes or fewer, all eight nodes (phone lines) can be run from one 80386 (or better) machine (under a Multitasking operating system such as OS/2, Windows95, Windows NT or DESQview). Powerboard can also be run in a local area network (LAN) environment. In this situation, one node can be run on each computer in the network. Or, the networked machines can run multitasking operating systems, making it possible for each machine in the network to run up to eight nodes. Features include multiconference multiuser live chat function and ability of an operator to log on to one node of the system and control other nodes. * USER INTERFACE High resolution RIPscrip graphics are supported, making it possible for full color graphical screens to be sent over the modem and creating a graphical user interface (GUI). Also supported is the Windows Interface Protocol which gives users a true Windows interface. A freeware terminal program, DC Term, which supports the WIP protocol is available for you to distribute to your callers. In all graphics modes, on-line help is available at every prompt. * CONFIGURABILITY Because SysOps have different preferences in how they would like to configure their systems, Powerboard offers a number of options. One is the mouse driven main configuration program. Also, a menu builder is included for changing menus and the menu structure on the BBS. A String Editor program is included to allow the operator to look through the various prompts and displays that the user sees and to be able to edit them (their wording, coloring, etc.). A drawing program is included for creating or editing display screens. * PROGRAMMABILITY Because you are the operator of your system, we believe you should have the power to change anything you want. With the PCL programming language, any aspect of the way Powerboard functions can be changed, removed or augmented. The language is easy to learn and manipulate. Many example programs (which are used for running the BBS) are included. The language features common-sense commands such as SAY to display text and ASK to receive information from the user. * Other Highlights included utilities: Newsletter Editor Upload Virus/Validity Scanner Online Archive Viewer Call-Back Verifier Drawing Program Menu Builder File Area Manager / Sort Utility on-line features: Split-Screen Chat Over 60 Function Keys for SysOp Logoff Verification User is alerted if files are tagged for download when they attempt to log off Comment to Sysop if user forgets password mail/message areas: Echomail networks such as Fido, Rime, Qnet, and Internet are supported Up to 32,767 conferences/message areas Up to 2.2 billion messages/conference file areas: cd-rom / cd-rom changer support up to 32,767 file areas file_id.diz support password protecting of files other features: fax support intelligent board support including support for GTEK's BBS550 & Blackboard-4 275 default display screens Unlimited security levels Baud rates to 115,200 bps --------------------------------------------------------------- * NuIQ SOFTWARE'S POWERBOARD FIRST BBS TO SUPPORT WIP PROTOCOL --------------------------------------------------------------- New protocol promises to be the next graphical standard Santa Barbara, CA -- Durand Communications Network, Inc. has announced the successful integration of its WIP (Windows Interface Protocol) into the popular Powerboard BBS v2.0 software package, produced by NuIQ Software. WIP, a freely-available graphical standard for Windows menuing and communications software, has previously been integrated into many of Durand's own products including the popular MINDWIRE Client/Server platform and Durand's online database products such as DC GENESYS. Now, Durand is actively working to move the rest of the industry to the WIP standard and has started with NuIQ Software's Powerboard BBS package. Users of Powerboard BBS will have available to them a graphically rich, Windows environment using the free Windows communications program DC-TERM. DC-TERM is a full-featured, easy-to-use, communications package that supports the WIP Enhanced menuing protocol. When users call into a WIP-compatable Powerboard BBS system using DC-TERM, the system they call actually becomes a part of their native Windows desktop! WIP features include Windows icons, full-color graphics, scrolling fields and sound. With an inexpensive add-on package, users can even use DC TERM through the Internet. Powerboard BBS 2.0 is a DOS-based online services platform and is therefore compatable with a variety of operating systems including all brands of Windows, OS/2 and, of course, MS-DOS. There has, recently, been a trend of other BBS platforms moving to a Windows 95 or OS/2 specific platform while some packages, such as Powerboard, have remained DOS-based. NuIQ President/CEO Scott Brown comments, "We feel it is best to offer a platform that allows both the host and user side to be run in any PC environment." Indeed, the SysOp can run Powerboard under his preferred operating system and the user, as well, can run DC TERM under all flavors of Windows and OS/2. DOS callers can access Powerboard in RIPscrip, ASCII or ANSI. The WIP protocol is a freely-available graphical standard and can be integrated into any software program. Contact Durand for a free WIP developers' kit. Developing your Windows interface for your online service with Powerboard BBS is as easy as drawing a menu. To create WIP menus, sysops use the DC Interface Builder available from Durand or through NuIQ Software. The DC Interface Builder is an easy to use drawing program which allows one to literally draw their online service. On the new Powerboard package, WIP menus can be created automatically by the WIP Menu Developer. The SysOp can add or remove commands to menus, add menus or remove entire menus, and the appropriate WIP screens will be modified by Powerboard automatically. It is also relatively easy to put sounds (wav files) on the system with the new Powerboard v2.0. SysOps who are interested in setting up a WIP-based BBS should contact NuIQ Software for free literature on their Powerboard Package. A free demo pack can be obtained from NuIQ by calling 1-800-844-6526. Look for more WIP-compatable software from Durand, NuIQ, and other publishers soon. eSoft has already begun integration of the WIP protocol into TBBS and TDBS. TBBS SysOps can look for a WIP-compatable BBS from eSoft in early '96. ------------------------------------------------- * Windows Interface Protocol (WIP) - An Overview ------------------------------------------------- Written by Scott Brown (NuIQ Software) with modifications by Andre Durand (Durand Communications) (C) 1996 NuIQ Software, Inc. - All Rights Reserved * CONCEPT The Windows Interface Protocol is a fast and efficient way to make use of the various functions available in Microsoft Windows, over a live connection (Internet or dial-up). In other words, WIP is a method of interfacing an online service with Windows (hence the name Windows Interface Protocol). The idea behind WIP is very simple: allow an online service to make use of the resources available on the user's Windows system. This includes full 24-bit graphics, true-type fonts, stereo sound, icons, buttons, etc. One of the more powerful features of WIP is that it can run client/server applications real-time. From the programmers' viewpoint, this is similar to Java (a language for the Web) in that applications made to interface with WIP can be seamlessly integrated into the online service. Because WIP is a client/server protocol, the server (host) and the client (the user's computer) are in a constant dialogue while connected to each other. Unlike the scanario when a user is calling from an ASCII, ANSI or RIPscrip based system, the client is not a dumb terminal. In a fashion similar to America Online's automatic graphics updating, a WIP client/server system will only send graphics, sound, or WIP applications if the client either does not have the data or it needs to be updated. With this increased efficiency, it actually becomes a viable option to send large graphics, sound and application files since they only need to be sent once. * DESIGNING WIP SCREENS Designing a WIP screen is rather simple. A program called the WIP Builder allows you to actually draw your screens. Any Sysop who has been drawing ANSI screens for the past ten years will certainly be able to appreciate this move to an intuitive WYSIWYG graphical design utility. Creating a WIP screen is just a matter of drawing it! The Interface Builder has a toolbox from which several tool-types can be selected. Among these are text, text-box, button, and picture. If, for example, a Sysop wants to create a field in which data can be entered, he needs only to click on the text-box tool and draw the field on the screen. Graphical files such as .GIFs and .JPGs can be integrated just as easily. Just click on the picture tool and draw an outline for the graphic where you want it on the screen. The graphic will be dropped into the area you drew immediately. * TRANSPORT PROTOCOL Right now, two host software packages that support the WIP protocol. They are the MindWire Internet Applications Server and Powerboard BBS software. eSoft, Inc., has promised WIP support in their upcoming release of TBBS. Powerboard BBS supports the original WIP transport protocol. MindWire uses a modified, proprietary iteration of the WIP transport protocol. Both systems use the same WIP display protocol. Essentially, there are two parts to WIP: the Display Protocol and the Transport Protocol. Since MindWire was designed to work side-by-side a web server, Durand (developer of MindWire) used a modified iteration of the WIP transport protocol, while the original WIP transport protocol was designed to work with BBS technology. BBS technology traditionally consists of the Server telling the Client what to receive. With the world wide web, the user (client) tells the Server what they want. Since MindWire Server is designed to be an extension of existing Web servers, it works similarly to how a Web server works. The basic difference between the MindWire transport protocol and the original WIP transport protocol is that the MindWire client requests specific WIP files (screens) from the server. In the original WIP transport protocol, the client is always ready for any WIP file the Server may decide to send to it. TBBS, and any other BBS program that will support WIP in the future, will use the original WIP transport protocol. The original WIP transport protocol is designed to work well with BBS's because of its technical design. * WIP NORMAL MODE For Sysops who are interested in getting a Windows interface for their BBS but do not want to have to switch to Powerboard, MindWire, or TBBS, they can use a stripped-down version of WIP called WIP Normal Mode. WIP Normal Mode is not a client/server protocol. Instead, it is similar to RIPscrip in that screens are simply sent to the client where the client acts as a dumb terminal. Screens for WIP Normal Mode are still designed in the DC Interface Builder, but in Normal Mode Editing. Certain functions within the DC Interface Builder, such as List Boxes, are disabled in WIP Normal Mode. Otherwise, the program functions in the same way. In WIP Normal Mode, the client does not talk back to the Server (BBS), so if any graphics (GIFs, JPGs, BMPs, etc.) are attached to the screen, they must be transmitted each time the screen is displayed, regardless of whether or not the graphic is already on the remote system. Unlike WIP Enhanced Mode, WIP Normal Mode also does not have facilities for use of message boxes, stereo sound and animation files. WIP Normal Mode is also incapable of running WIP applications, which as discussed earlier, is one of the most impressive features of WIP. However, despite its limitations, WIP Normal Mode is a good alternative to RIPscrip for Sysops wishing to offer Windows graphics on their BBS without actually switching to a BBS platform that supports Enhanced WIP. * CLIENT SOFTWARE There are currently two different client programs available for accessing WIP based systems. Both are made by Durand Communications and both are freeware (in the public domain). The WIP client that works with the proprietary MindWire transport protocol (see previous paragraph) is called the MindWire Connector. That is available from the Durand Communications ftp server at ftp.durand.com. The MindWire Connector allows users to connect to systems both via dial-up modem access and via the Internet. The other client is called DC Term. DC Term is available from the NuIQ ftp server at ftp.nuiq.com. With an add-on program called COMt (also available on the NuIQ ftp server), DC Term can be used to connect to systems on the Internet. * WIP IS A STANDARD It is true that there are other protocols available that display graphics over the modem in a Windows environment. However, WIP is the only freely available standard specification for doing this. With support for WIP in three leading online service platforms, it is likely that WIP will continue to gain more acceptance as a powerful standard. Durand Communications Network, Inc. is located at: 147 Castilian Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93117 (805)961-8700 FAX (805)961-8701 ------------- * ORDER FORM ------------- NuIQ Software Inc. ORDER FORM FAX: (914)833-3623 BBS: (914)833-1479 CompuServe Registration ID: 9481 (GO SWREG) Name _____________________________________________ Company __________________________________________ Date _____________________________________________ Address __________________________________________ City _____________________________________________ State ____________________________________________ Postal ___________________________________________ Phone ____________________________________________ How did you hear of us? __________________________ Ship To Address (if different) __________________________________________________ __________________________________________________ PAYMENT METHOD (Check One): [ ] VISA [ ] MASTERCARD [ ] AMERICAN EXPRESS [ ] JCB [ ] DINER'S CLUB [ ] CARTE BLANCHE [ ] CHECK/MONEY ORDER [ ] COD (add $15) [ ] PURCHASE ORDER (Government and Rated Companies only) Card Number ______________________________ Exp Date _________________________________ Cardholder Name __________________________ Signature ________________________________ Make Checks Payable To: NuIQ Software Inc., P.O. BOX 832 LARCHMONT NY 10538 ** Checks must be in U.S. funds, drawn on a U.S. bank ** *QTY* PRODUCTS TOTAL [ ] Powerboard BBS Standard Edition $99 [ ] Includes Standard 4-Node Package - everything you need to get up and running fast! [ ] Powerboard BBS Professional Edition $249 [ ] 99-Node Package w/ Developers' Kit, System Usage Reporter, BitRip Lite BMP->RIPscrip Utility, Example PCL code and more! [ ] DC Interface Builder (Durand Communications) $175 [ ] This is the package you need to build your own WIP (Windows) screens for your Powerboard system. [ ] BitRip Pro (PTS Software) $89.95 [ ] Utility to convert .BMP images to RIPscrip. Allows you to design screens in your favorite Windows drawing program and to put them on your BBS. [ ] BitRip Lite (PTS Software) $24.95 [ ] Like BitRip Pro but without printed manual or enhanced options (only option on conversion is the setting for auto/custom color reduction). BitRip Lite comes with the Powerboard Professional package. [ ] BBS550 8-Port Intelligent Board (GTEK) $375 [ ] Want to run a large multinode system with few computers? Connect up to eight modems to a PC with this intelligent multiport serial card! [ ] Blackboard-4 Four Port Board (GTEK) $225 [ ] Four port intelligent board - similar to BBS550. *QTY* SERVICES TOTAL [ ] Add'l year tech support/bbs access/newsletter $75 [ ] SUBTOTAL [ ] SALES TAX (Delaware & New York residents only) [ ] SHIPPING AND HANDLING FIRST ITEM ADDL TOTAL Federal Express 2-Day (USA-48 states only) $16 $11 [ ] Federal Express Overnight (USA-48 only) $26 $21 [ ] Canada & other North American $14 $8 [ ] Other Foreign $35 $35 [ ] COD SERVICE ADD $15 [ ] TOTAL [ ] ----------------------------------------- * CONTACT INFORMATION FOR NuIQ SOFTWARE ----------------------------------------- PHONE 914-833-3479 ORDER LINE 800-844-6526 FAX 914-833-3623 BBS 914-833-1479 FIDONET 1:2625/110 PFNET 18:3000/100 MAILING ADDRESS NuIQ Software, Inc. 415-A Richbell Road Larchmont, NY 10538 INTERNET CONTACT INFORMATION INFORMATION info@nuiq.com SALES sales@nuiq.com SUPPORT support@nuiq.com WEB SITE http://www.nuiq.com FTP SITE ftp://nuiq.com NEWSGROUP alt.bbs.powerboard OTHER SERVICES COMPUSERVE 76653,1620 AMERICA ONLINE NuIQ =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 2.2 - HOST PROGRAMS FOR WINDOWS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [2.2.01] - FILEX Filex software is available through Durand Communications. Please see section [2.2.05] - MindWire for further info about Filex. =============================================================== [2.2.02] - FREEMAIL TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * What is FreeMail? * System requirements * System limitations * Ordering Information ------------------------------------------------ ---------------------- * What is FreeMail? ---------------------- FreeMail is an automatic e-mail and file exchange communication system for Microsoft's Windows 3.1. FreeMail uses standard telephone lines and modems, and can exchange any kind and size of file with other FreeMail sites. FreeMail also can exchange e-mail between other FreeMail sites. A FreeMail parent can create unlimited, and free, child diskettes, which can be given to anyone who has a PC running Windows 3.1. FreeMail is a communication program which does not allow any interaction from users during connection time. This means that reading and writing mail is done when FreeMail sites are not connected together. ----------------------- * System requirements ----------------------- Personal computer using 386 or higher microprocessor. MS-DOS operating system version 3.3 or later. Microsoft Windows 3.1 or later. Hard disk with at least 1.5 megs of free space. A modem which recognizes standard AT (Hayes) command set. One 3.5 inch 1.44 meg floppy disk drive. Microsoft Mouse or compatible pointing device. --------------------- * System limitations --------------------- E-mail messages written in FreeMail are limited in length to about 30 typed pages. Files that FreeMail can send can be any length and of any form (binary or text). Each FreeMail 'viewer' can contain about 1,000 active sites. Each active site can contain about 1,000 items of mail in each viewer (5,000 total) The 'Other Sites' address book can contain about 3,000 sites. (Actual amounts depend on available memory.) FreeMail 'Children' can not exchange files between other Children. FreeMail Children can only exchange e-mail of 400 characters with other Children FreeMail Children can fully communicate with ANY Parent (files and any length E-Mail). ------------------------ * Ordering Information ------------------------ The list price for a Parent copy of FreeMail, which can create an unlimited number of Child copies, is currently (6/14/94) $74.95 + $5.00 s/h. Visa and MC accepted. FreeMail is available from distributors as well as direct from Saroff Design. You can order directly from Saroff Design by calling, faxing, mailing, or E-mailing your order. Voice: (406) 542-3867 FAX: (406) 549-7457 Internet: SSaroff@aol.com U.S. Mail: Saroff Design, 1901 Missoula Ave. Missoula, MT 59802 Child copies of FreeMail --which you can use to evaluate FreeMail-- are fully functional but can not create their own child copies. Child copies are available from any user of FreeMail or directly from Saroff Design for only $9.95 (just the shipping/production charge). From: fmiboz@aol.com (FMIBOZ) Newsgroups: comp.infosystems.www.authoring.html Subject: private document exchange software posted on web Date: 5 Jan 1996 02:05:42 -0500 Reply-To: fmiboz@aol.com (FMIBOZ) Hello, As a service to the Internet community, we have now posted on the web fully-functional copies of our document exchange and e-mail systems. http://www.montana.com/freemail With FreeMail companies can set up their own very private and secure e-mail and document exchange network using ordinary phone lines and modems. FreeMail is the basis of Kinko's Inc. Kinkonet world-wide document delivery service. Recent magazine reviews have generated requests for evaluation software; we hope this posting via the web will be beneficial to people in this newsgroup who have made requests for functioning evaluation copies of FreeMail. Steve Saroff, Chief Technology Officer, FreeMail, Inc. =============================================================== [2.2.03] - O-M-N-I Board Date: Tue, 05 Nov 1996 21:04:26 -0600 From: Dennis Strain Subject: New O-M-N-I V 1.5 Information you Requested Here is the New O-M-N-I Features List, Price List, and Order Form. These can be copied and printed in formatted format from our web site. No charge for current customers and Beta Testers. All files are at the *NEW* O-M-N-I Web Site at: http://www.o-m-n-i.com The O-M-N-I HQ will have the new files and information in about one week, so until then please go to the web page to get the files. Dennis Strain - CEO Copsey Strain, Inc. O-M-N-I (tm) Software -------------------------------------------------------------- TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * FEATURE LIST * PRODUCTS & PRICING * HOW TO RECEIVE AND "VALIDATE" YOUR O-M-N-I SOFTWARE * HOW TO ORDER * ORDER FORM --------------------------------------------- ------------------ * FEATURE LIST ------------------ O-M-N-I (TM) Online/Internet BBS Ver 1.5 Standard Features List - Highly Customizable: Every part of your O-M-N-I Online Information System can be made to look and feel... exactly the way you want. You even have complete control over the way your message/conference and file areas will look (which is not possible in many BBS software applications). O-M-N-I's extraordinary flexibility gives you all the freedom you need for developing the online system you want. - Secure Dial-up & Internet Access: O-M-N-I provides every tool necessary to set up a secure full-service Windows/GUI-based Internet BBS with direct dial-up access and Internet connectivity. That means you have the option of letting callers anywhere in the world connect to your O-M-N-I Windows BBS over the Internet... just as easily as they do the World Wide Web. - Multiple Caller Support: O-M-N-I supports more nodes (telephone lines and/or simultaneous connections) on a single computer than most other BBS software -- in packages ranging from 1 to 128 nodes. * User Friendly: O*M*N*I Term (the O*M*N*I custom client) is an easy-to-use Microsoft(r) Windows-based application. Customers, prospects, members, clients... even experienced company workgroups will enjoy the ease and simplicity of installing it then connecting to your Windows-based O-M-N-I server. They'll actually feel like they're using a Windows application installed on their own machine when connected. - O-M-N-I Term Accessories: The O-M-N-I Term is also useful for doing things other than connecting to an O-M-N-I Server. For example, file viewers for many of today's popular image formats, text files, and RTF files are included. The O-M-N-I Term can even open a ZIP file and decompress it for you! - Window Editor: The O-M-N-I Window Editor is a unique and powerful application in itself. It is used to include the objects and create all the windows that make up your system's GUI (graphical user interface). System task teams and designers will find the Window Editor a real joy to work with. And it comes complete with your O-M-N-I software package... at no additional cost. - Object-oriented Communications: You can choose which objects are sent live and which ones will be automatically stored on your caller's computer. By storing commonly used information on the user's end, your entire system will remain much more responsive. For example, when you make changes to a window... only the changes are sent -- not the entire window -- so callers get them much faster. - Permanent Forums: You can set up special windows and/or forums on your online service which will be sent and stored on your user's computer the first time they enter the area (instead of being sent during the initial windows download at first sign-on). This saves valuable time and disk space for those who may not want to enter a certain area... and adds significantly to the seamless performance of your system. - Exports Windows & Objects: O-M-N-I allows you to import and export windows and objects you've created in the Window Editor for sharing between (or distribution to) other O-M-N-I Systems. This makes it possible for system designers to conduct development at completely different locations and (for instance) send their work back and forth via e-mail. - Resizeable Windows: O-M-N-I makes it possible for you to create a window with a resizeable border... and will automatically resize the contents of the window for you! No programming or script writing is required -- the window will automatically resize the elements on its own. - Transparent Hot Spots: The Window Editor is capable of creating invisible areas on a window that will carry out specific commands when clicked. This makes it possible, for instance, to create a single image on which you can place multiple hot spots that the user can click to carry out various functions on your system. - Rich Text Documents: In O-M-N-I you have the ability to create and display "rich text" documents in any of your system's windows. This means that your special online messages can contain multiple typefaces, sizes, colors, and paragraph alignments... not just plain text (although you still have that option too). Your users will take pleasure in scrolling through your uniquely styled messages online. - Image Formats: In O-M-N-I you have a wide range of options for controlling graphic image quality and transfer speeds. You can use JPEG, GIF, CMP, WMF, BMP, and ICO images anywhere in you system's windows... in 4, 8, 16, or 24-bit color. - Live Image Preview: O-M-N-I gives you the capability of offering live online image file previews... which gives callers a chance to see a quick "thumbnail" of an image before downloading the actual file. The commercial applications for image file previewing -- from stock photo previews to full-color ads -- are endless. O-M-N-I supports all major formats, including GIF, JPEG, TIF, TGA, PCX, CMP, BMP, and PCD. - Online Sound: You can make your graphical online service come alive with sound! You can associate any standard Windows WAV file to a button click, a window opening, a window closing... and many other events in O-M-N-I. In addition, MIDI sound is fully supported... with complete control over how many times a file is played. - O-M-N-I Basic: Available with some O-M-N-I software packages (or as an add-on) is an easy-to-use programming and scripting language which significantly extends the range your design and command capabilities -- such as adding online forms and animation to your system! - Message-Conference & File Areas: In O-M-N-I you have complete control over how each message board and file area on your system is set up. You have the option of using either buttons or directory-tree listings for user access to each conference or file area on your system. Because you may also control the way each area will look... you can give a highly professional appearance to all your online forums. - Multi-tasking File Transfer: Your users can be uploading and downloading a file and still maintain full use of the rest of your system. Not only that, but they can "line up" numerous file selections at once for transferring in sequence, and sign off automatically at the end of the process. This assures the most cost-effective use of your system... by allowing anyone who's connected to perform other important tasks, or even leave their terminal, while files are being transferred. - Live ZIP File Preview: Your callers can see what's inside a ZIP file in your file listing with just the click of a button -- so they can actually decide whether or not they want to download a file. - E-mail: O-M-N-I's advanced, built-in e-mail system allows for complete centralized management of your business, institutional, or personal mail. Internet connectivity is available, and a simple name-based addressing system allows for multiple mailboxes at both the server and user's terminal. Mail may be composed offline then saved for editing or mailing later. E-mail message status (for both incoming and outgoing messages) is indicated with easy-to-read color-coded icons, which makes tracking volumes of e-mail daily... just a breeze. - Multiple E-mail Attachments: O-M-N-I's e-mail system also allows you to attach multiple files to your e-mail messages. O-M-N-I even automatically compresses all attachments for you! You no longer have to be concerned about ZIPping up all your files before you send them... or wondering if the recipient will know how to unZIP the files once they get them. It's all done automatically for both the sender and the recipient. - Multi-node Chat: O-M-N-I features a complete built-in chat engine, with user paging and whispering. Chat sessions may also be initiated, entered, or "invisibly" monitored from the server. - Multiple Chat Rooms/Teleconferencing Areas: With O-M-N-I you can set up multiple (private or public) chat rooms on your system, with the ability to page other users on the system and to "whisper" privately to someone else in the same teleconference area. - Ready-to-use Windows: You have the option of installing a fully operational "sample" online system with O-M-N-I -- complete with predesigned objects and windows which you may also use as templates for designing new ones. (The O-M-N-I Window Editor Tutorial, included with your software package, is also based on this sample system.) So setting up O-M-N-I can be a simple, turnkey operation! - Optimized System Management: O-M-N-I puts complete user, e-mail, message board, and file area management right at your fingertips... with many simple but powerful tools. One of O-M-N-I's most important advantages is the way it is organized. Everything is fully integrated to make the operation and management of your graphical online service as easy as possible. - Extensive Accounting Plan Options: O-M-N-I offers extensive time-based accounting plan options for setting up different types of user accounting plans on your system -- allowing you to charge users for the specific way they use your system. - MS-Access Database Format: The user, e-mail, message board, and file area databases are all stored in MS-Access 2.0 database files making it easy to write add-on utilities in Access and Visual Basic -- adding even greater versatility to your system. - ANSI Support: O-M-N-I internally supports ANSI Text dial-up callers, making it easy for your new users to download their FREE copy of O-M-N-I Term using their standard comm or modem program. The O-M-N-I ANSI System Editor is included for designing ANSI Text menus. - Custom Dialog/Message Text Editing: O-M-N-I allows you to edit various dialog messages that users see when they sign on to your system... making the caller's experience on your system as personalized as possible. - O-M-N-I Imager: The O-M-N-I Imager is a full-featured image viewing and conversion utility that includes many standard image filters, such as sharpen, blur, and emboss. You can also adjust brightness, contrast, color hue, and saturation -- among many other things. --------------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------ * PRODUCTS & PRICING ------------------------ O-M-N-I(tm) Products & Pricing There is an O-M-N-I Online/Internet BBS software package to satisfy the online requirements of any business or organization-no matter how large or small. FOR THE SMALLER BUSINESS OR ORGANIZATION ... 16-Line Professional O-M-N-I BBS .... $299 [Best Value!] The O-M-N-I Professional Edition sets the industry standard for full-featured, low-cost startup BBS packages. It is highly suited to smaller businesses and organizations that want to get started building a multi-service online information system with easy-to-use design elements and commands. 32-Line Professional O-M-N-I BBS .... $349 16-Line Designer Edition O-M-N-I BBS .... $389 The O-M-N-I Designer Edition extends the basic design and command features of the Professional Edition to include O-M-N-I Basic, a special built-in programming and scripting language that offers more advanced system designers an almost endless variety of tools with which to customize their system. 32-Line Designer Edition O-M-N-I BBS .... $439 FOR LARGER BUSINESSES AND CORPORATIONS ... 64-Line Commerce Edition O-M-N-I BBS .... $599 The O-M-N-I Commerce Edition contains all the tools available for setting up an advanced, highly customized online system ... for larger companies and organizations that expect heavier use. It is ideal for setting up internal LANs and Intranets utilizing TCP/IP (as well as dial-up) connections. 128-Line Enterprise Edition O-M-N-I BBS .... $799 [Best Value!] The O-M-N-I Enterprise Edition offers twice the online capacity of the Commerce Edition at only a slightly greater cost. It is the most advanced and powerful O-M-N-I software package available for more demanding online environments. ALSO AVAILABLE WITH LIMITED FEATURES ... 2-Line Hobby O-M-N-I BBS .... $99 Good basic starter system for amateurs, BBS hobbyists, or system operators who would like to try out O-M-N-I before investing in a more powerful, full-featured system. Does not include: * Window Exporting * Accounting * Permanent Forums * O-M-N-I Basic ----------------------------- O-M-N-I (TM) Online Information System and Internet/BBS Software for Microsoft(R) Windows v1.5 CURRENT PRICE LIST - effective 10/25/96 (Prices may change without notice.) ______________________________ O-M-N-I v1.5 SOFTWARE PACKAGES ... 16-Line PROFESSIONAL O-M-N-I BBS: $299 [BEST VALUE!] 32-Line PROFESSIONAL O-M-N-I BBS: $349 16-Line DESIGNER Edition O-M-N-I BBS: $389 32-Line DESIGNER Edition O-M-N-I BBS: $439 64-Line COMMERCE Edition O-M-N-I BBS: $599 128-Line ENTERPRISE Edition O-M-N-I BBS: $799 [BEST VALUE!] ________________________ LIMITED-FEATURE EDITION ... 2-Line HOBBY O-M-N-I BBS: $99 ___________________ O-M-N-I ACCESSORIES ... Printed BBS Manual: $29 O-M-N-I Basic (Plug-in): $99 ____________________ O-M-N-I ONLINE GAMES ... O-M-N-I Checkers (8-user): $49 O-M-N-I Checkers (Unlimited): $99 O-M-N-I Hangman: $39 Simple Simon: $29 ----------------------------------------------------------------- * HOW TO RECEIVE AND "VALIDATE" YOUR O-M-N-I SOFTWARE ----------------------------------------------------------------- To make things faster (and somewhat more convenient) for you to receive your O-M-N-I v1.5 installation package, we've made it possible for you to directly download your software NOW from the O-M-N-I World Wide Web site at... http://www.o-m-n-i.com/ Or from the O-M-N-I Headquarters BBS at... Dial-up: 320-656-9045 TCP/IP: term.o-m-n-i.com Once we receive your completed order form, along with payment, you will be sent a set of special serial numbers which you must enter at the end of your O-M-N-I install program in order to validate your registration and complete your installation. If you prefer to have O-M-N-I installation disks shipped to you via Postal Mail, please check the appropriate item under "Product Shipping Method" below and add the shipping charges that apply. NOTE: Your O-M-N-I v1.5 software package includes complete documentation in Windows 3.x Write format. However, you may also download it separately (free) from the Web. If you wish to order it as a "Printed BBS Manual," it costs $29 each and must be sent by Postal Mail with applicable shipping charges (see below). If you order O-M-N-I Basic as a separate add-on (to the O-M-N-I Professional or Hobby editions), you do not need to download it; you will be sent special serial numbers to activate it on your existing installation. (O-M-N-I Basic is already included in the Designer, Commerce, and Enterprise editions of O-M-N-I v1.5.) ----------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- * HOW TO ORDER ----------------- Fill out the information below and send in your order one of the following ways... E-MAIL: Visa or Mastercard orders e-mail this form directly to: Internet: bbsomni@aol.com America Online: BBSOMNI +>> Put as the subject of your message: "O-M-N-I ORDER" + Your Last Name +>> COPY this form to the e-mail message. But PLEASE... ** DO "NOT" SEND ORDER AS FILE ATTACHMENT! ** FAX: Credit card orders may also be sent by FAX to: 1-320-253-0941 POSTAL MAIL: Orders by check, money order, bank draft (or credit card) may also be sent by Postal Mail. Simply complete the order form below, then PRINT it out and mail it with your payment to: O-M-N-I Software Copsey Strain, Inc. Post Office Box 300 Sauk Rapids, MN 56379-0300 USA As soon as your order is processed, your O-M-N-I software product(s) and/or serial numbers will be sent to you by the method(s) you've indicated below. ----------------------------------------------------------------- --------------- * ORDER FORM --------------- PLEASE COMPLETELY FILL OUT THE INFORMATION BELOW: NAME: COMPANY: ORGANIZATION: ADDRESS: CITY: STATE: ZIP/POSTAL CODE: COUNTRY: (Type X below if Yes) ABOVE IS: Home address ........: Office address ......: Home Office .........: E-MAIL ADDRESS: E-MAIL ADDRESS: DAY PHONE: FAX: NIGHT PHONE: WEEKEND PHONE: WEB SITE NAME: WEB SITE URL: BBS NAME: BBS PHONE: TCP/IP: PRODUCT INFORMATION -- Enter the quantity of each item you are ordering (you may leave spaces blank for items you are not ordering): (Type quantity below) 16-Line PROFESSIONAL O-M-N-I BBS: 32-Line PROFESSIONAL O-M-N-I BBS: 16-Line DESIGNER Edition O-M-N-I BBS: 32-Line DESIGNER Edition O-M-N-I BBS: 64-Line COMMERCE Edition O-M-N-I BBS: 128-Line ENTERPRISE Edition O-M-N-I BBS: 2-Line HOBBY O-M-N-I BBS: Printed BBS Manual....: O-M-N-I Basic.........: O-M-N-I Checkers (8-user): O-M-N-I Checkers (Unlimited): O-M-N-I Hangman: Simple Simon: Total Product Amount (see price list)..: $ SERIAL NUMBER METHOD -- You must receive your registered serial numbers before the product(s) you are ordering will work. Please check the method below by which you would like your serial numbers sent to you. (Type X below if Yes) Internet E-mail.......: FAX...................: Postal Mail...........: PRODUCT SHIPPING METHOD -- Download (Free).......: Postal Mail...........: Add $15.00 (U.S.) for shipping disks and/or each "Printed BBS Manual" by Postal Mail in the United states. Add $25.00 (U.S.) shipping anywhere outside the United States. Shipping Charge.......: $ Product Total (above).: $ Minnesota Residents Add 6% Sales Tax......: $ TOTAL AMOUNT OF PURCHASE...............: $ (Type X below for selection) PAYMENT METHOD: *Check ................: Money Order ..........: Bank Cheque ..........: VISA .................: Mastercard ...........: *Checks must be drawn on a bank with a U.S. Dollar account. Writing "In U.S. Dollars" on a non-U.S. dollar account cannot be accepted. If you do not have a U.S. Dollar account it is better to get an international money order from your bank. MAKE OUT PAYMENTS TO: Copsey Strain, Inc./O-M-N-I Software Credit Card Number ...: Expiration Date ......: Name on Credit Card ..: YOUR SIGNATURE: TODAY'S DATE: ----------------------------------------------------------------- O-M-N-I (TM) is a trademark of Copsey Strain, Inc. O-M-N-I software and its contents Copyright © Copsey Strain, Inc. 1994- 96. Portions of the O-M-N-I software package contain trade secrets and proprietary information that are protected by patents or copyrights. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ =============================================================== [2.2.04] - Excalibur BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * CONTACT INFO * Excalibur BBS offers true Windows Multitasking Architecture * Excalibur v1.0 Features * Minimum Requirements * Excalibur MiniFAQ, Mailing list & IRC Chat * Internet Sites miniFAQ * ListServer Interactive Lists * Internet IRCChat Channels -------------------------------- -------------- * CONTACT INFO -------------- Excalibur Communications Inc. 4410 East 80th Place Tulsa, OK 74136 USA 1-800-EXCAL-BBS (Sales) (918) 491-0033 (Fax) (918) 496-8113 (Support BBS) (918) 496-7881 (Tech. Support) FTP Server Client: 198.247.231.107 --------------------------------------------------------------- * Excalibur BBS offers true Windows Multitasking Architecture --------------------------------------------------------------- Version 1.0 being readied for wide Commercial Release FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Thursday, August 18, 1994 Tulsa, OK- Excalibur Communications, Inc. announces The Next Generation of Bulletin Board Software. Excalibur BBS version 1.0 is being readied for wide commercial release. Incorporating innovative capabilities in a BBS package, Excalibur is versatile enough to satisfy both the home hobbyist and Fortune 500 company. With convenience and abilities that rival the big three, America On-line, CompuServe, and Prodigy, Excalibur offers convenience and capability at a cost low enough to fit into the budget of any operator. In the words of one Excalibur Sysop, ANSI, RIPterm, and ROBOterm are going the way of DOS... out the door. Excalibur’s ease of use and fantastic graphics made me switch after my first call. Excalibur BBS is the first commercially available package to run completely under the Microsoft Windows environment. Having been designed for Windows 3.1, Windows for Workgroups 3.11, and Windows NT, Excalibur offers the ability to multitask within and outside the terminal program. Users can Upload and Download files, Preview images on 3 levels of complexity, conduct on-line conversations with other users and scan the message base... all at the same time! Utilizing its own graphical interface, users are presented with System Operator (Sysop) designed menus and screens, incorporating complex bitmapped graphics and TrueType fonts. No two Excalibur based system are the same! In addition, proprietary Error Correction and Data Compression offer reliability and convenience to all users... even those without onboard hardware error- correction. As for expandability, Excalibur is virtually unlimited. Through the use of DLL based doors called 'Plug Ins', Excalibur will offer Sysops true Plug ‘N Play abilities. Imagine Doors that are both hassle free, and easy to use. Utilizing our Application Programming Interface (API), Third Party Companies are developing everything from Shopping Malls to Interactive Games and Internet Doors... even Online Databases and Newsletters for Businesses. Excalibur is not something to be seen, it is something to be experienced. Call today to experience what thousands of users worldwide are heralding as "the next generation in BBS software": (918)496-8113, N81 ------------------------- * Excalibur v1.0 Features ------------------------- -Windows 3.1, 3.11, and NT and future Win 4.0 Compatibility. -Robust Database Engine, Holy Grail accessible to any program utilizing DDE. -Arthur Visual System Operator Program featuring Drag and Drop File Management. -Merlin The WYSIWYG Screen Editor (no artistic ability required!). -High Speed Display of Binary Graphics, menus and icons. -Bezier Curves for smooth graphics. -Uses TrueType Font technology. -Rotatable Text and Fonts. -3 Levels of Image Previews: full-color, greyscale and thumbnail views. -Previews: Bitmap (BMP), GIF, and Targa (TIF) Graphics -True Windows Multitasking, inside and out. -High-speed file transfers. -File Download autoresume. -Simultaneous 2 Way Upload/Download Ability. -Full Messaging and E-Mail Capabilities. -Message Archiving and Offline Mail readers. -Personal E-Mail Address Book. -E-Mail File attachments built-in. -Proprietary Error Correction in addition to existing hardware correction. -On-the-Fly Data Compression. -Built-In CD-ROM File Library and Descriptions Loader. -Multi-User Chat. -Caller-ID Capable. -On-Line Credit Card Processing Utilities Included. -2400-28.8 V.FAST Modem Compatible -Local Area Network Support. -Fax, Usenet, Fidonet, ExNet, and Internet front-end/tosser compatible* -True "Plug ‘n Play" addition of Doors via .dll Links. -Free example .dll Plug-In doors and games, complete with Source Code and SDK. -Capable of running up to 8 Modems via a single CPU utilizing a multi-port board. -Windows NT Remote Access Service WAN Capable. -32Bit Windows 4.0 and fully Internet Compatible versions planned. ------------------------ * Minimum Requirements ------------------------ ·386DX or above. ·Windows 3.1 or above. ·4 Megabytes RAM ·Requires 6 Megabytes HD Space ·2400 Baud (or above) Modem, Internal or External * Excalibur MiniFAQ, Mailing list & IRC Chat * Internet Sites miniFAQ windows techknow(tm) Excalibur Internet Sites miniFAQ: by Roger Heath send requests for updates and changes to: rheath@mcs.net * ListServer Interactive Lists Cyberspace HQ e-mail address : listserver@cyberhq.com msg text to join: subscribe cyblist send e-mail to : cyblist@cyberhq.com windows techknow e-mail address : majordomo@lists.win.net msg text to join: subscribe techknow-L send e-mail to : techknow-L@lists.win.net ZedSoft/Portico e-mail address : listserver@zedsoft.net msg text to join: subscribe portico username (user name is real name not sysop) send e-mail to : portico@zedsoft.net * Internet IRCChat Channels irc-2.mit.edu #excalibur or #excal. =============================================================== [2.2.05] - MindWire (Durand Communications) TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION * DEVELOPMENT ARCHITECTURE * CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS * CLIENT FEATURES * SERVER FEATURES * MASTER FEATURE LIST * SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS * WHAT'S INCLUDED * CUSTOMER SUPPORT ------------------------------------- ---------------- * INTRODUCTION ---------------- MindWire for Windows - version 1.0 Online Windows Platform for Client/Server Applications MindWire is a Windows based communications platform for client/server applications operating over a modem, network, and the Internet. MindWire allows you to establish a powerful, user-friendly, online service that can be completely customized to fit your individual needs. While MindWire contains all of the traditional features of an online service, such as E-Mail, File Library, Chat, and Messaging, MindWire also provides a robust development architecture for third party client/server applications. The evolution of DCN's entire product development path has culminated in MindWire. MindWire is the ultimate multimedia communications platform of the future. ---------------------------- * DEVELOPMENT ARCHITECTURE ---------------------------- MindWire was designed from the ground up to leverage Microsoft's strategies with respect to desktop (Windows 95), server (Windows NT), multimedia and database computing. MindWire follows open standards and architecture for database access and multimedia design. MindWire supports the following Microsoft standards: + OLE Automation + ODBC for database connectivity + RAS for SLIP and PPP dialup to an NT Server with RAS Server + Microsoft Access for simple database functionality * Client-side Developers Guide- FREE! The Client release of the MindWire developers Guide may be downloaded from DCN's MindWire Network. The guide covers the client-side implementation of MindWire Applications. It is intended for use by developers using Microsoft Visual Basic, Visual C++, or any other Windows Development Tool to write custom front-ends for existing MindWire Foundation Services (E-Mail, File Library, Chat, Message Forums, Account, Security, and various other utility functions). To implement new server-side services, you will need to obtain the MindWire Developers Kit, Server Implementation. The Server Developers Kit is scheduled to be released Summer '95. DCN strongly supports third party developers and offers a dedicated Developers Message forum on the MindWire Network for your comments and questions. Become a MindWire Developer today, and discover the most dynamic communications platform ever to be developed! * Complete Database Solution- coming soon! MindWire provides both simple and sophisticated database solutions. With QuickBASE, scheduled for release this summer, you can put any ODBC-compliant database online with images and complete searching capabilities including Microsoft Access, dBase, Oracle7, and Microsoft SQL Server. ------------------------ * CONNECTIVITY OPTIONS ------------------------ MindWire client side applications communicate to the MindWire Server through the MindWire Connector. Connection methods supported include Network and Modem, and protocols supported include FILEX (modem dialup to a MindWire Server) and TCP/IP (Network/Internet access to a MindWire Server). TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * Modem Access * Network Access * Internet Access -------------------------------------------------------- * Modem Access The FILEX Server, running on Windows 3.1, 3.11 or NT, may be used to answer modem dialup phone calls to the MindWire Server. Clients must configure their Connector for the FILEX protocol. * Network Access MindWire can operate over any network which utilizes the TCP/IP networking protocol. * Internet Access The MindWire Client and Server software communicate via TCP/IP, thus users can access the MindWire Server through the Internet. In this situation, MindWire Clients and Servers must have either a direct dedicated lease line connection to the Internet or have a PPP or SLIP account to a local area Internet provider. ------------------- * CLIENT FEATURES ------------------- TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * E-Mail * Product Ordering * Messaging * Who's Online * File Library * Menu Tree * Account Maintenance * Outline Viewer * Chat * MindWire Print ------------------------------- * E-Mail MindWire E-Mail is a comprehensive electronic mail service. Its advanced features include spell checking, file attachments, address searching, and a mail reader. Users may attach an image, sound file, text document or any other kind of file to any letter. Address Searching allows users to look up member names in an intuitive way. MindWire E-Mail allows users to view their mail and save copies of sent and received messages in folders for easy future reference. * Messaging MindWire Messaging is a powerful and essential tool for any organization. This service can be used to organize message topics and allows users on a network or remote connection the ability to respond to posted messages by simply clicking the respond button. Responses can then be read by other users. Similar to E-Mail, all messages posted within Messaging can be spell checked before posting. Text files may also be imported. The message scanner allows users to quickly view selected message topics. This feature may be completely customized by the user to match personal preference and makes monitoring of online discussions much easier. * File Library The File Library offers either network or remote users the ability to view, tag and download files from the MindWire Server. File Library is designed for remote users who need a more friendly file service with long name capabilities and the ability to download multiple files from multiple folders simultaneously. * Account Maintenance The Account Maintenance module allows users to quickly update their personal information online which is stored in the MindWire account database. This module is very similar to the logon sequence for new users. * Chat MindWire Chat is a real-time forum for users to simultaneously communicate to one another. Users can select from multiple forums created by the Administrator or invite another online user for a private chat. Using QuickTalk, users can predefine messages and quickly send them to another online user with the function keys. * Product Ordering The Product Ordering client application allows users to select products they wish to order and complete a purchase order with product totals, billing and shipping information. * Who's Online MindWire includes a special utility called Who's Online that allows users to see who is currently online. The application also allows users to send notes to other online users, search to find a user's account name, and view user's profiles and photos. * Menu Tree MindWire Menu Tree is a utility which allows users to easily view and access the entire WIP menu tree that is present on the MindWire Server. Users can easily navigate the WIP menu tree by clicking on a tree node. * Outline Viewer The Outline Viewer is a simple application that allows users to view an expandable and collapsible outline tree of your configuring. * MindWire Print The MindWire Print utility is a simple application that allows users to print simple text files directly from WIP Menus. ------------------ * SERVER FEATURES ------------------ TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * MindWire Administrator * File Library Administrator * Messaging Administrator * Security * Audit Trail * WIP Compatibility * Client Application Manager * Client Utility Applications -------------------------------------------- * MindWire Administrator The MindWire Administrator is the back-end utility used to manage the MindWire online environment. With the Administrator, one can change the file library, messaging, security, and accounting information as well as monitor the online services available to the users. The Administrator has the built in ability to repair and compact database files, add, delete, and modify chat rooms, build graphs of MindWire system statistics, and much more. * File Library Administrator The File Library service offers complete Administrator configurability and folder security for every folder and every user. The Folder tree allows the Administrator to view the current structure of the File Folders which will be displayed to the MindWire clients. The Administrator may also view three folders, Unapproved Folder, Approved Folder, and Wastebasket Folder, which are unique and cannot be viewed through the File Library client software. File Library also allows for the importing of files and their descriptions via CD-ROM. * Messaging Administrator The Messaging Administrator allows the MindWire system administrator to configure the message folders and security which will be available to users of the MindWire Messaging application. Features of the Messaging Administrator include: Create Folders, Rename and Delete Folders, Change Folder Keys, Delete and Move Messages, Delete and Respond to Messages. Similar to File Library, MindWire allows security for message folders by creating and assigning keys to folders. * Security MindWire implements security through the assignment of keys. Each application has features which can limit the access to end-users depending on their assigned privileges. Keys can easily be added, modified, or deleted by the Administrator. MindWire Administrator allows key and account assignments for groups of users, or for all system users with the Global Assignment function. Furthermore, MindWire allows the Administrator to assign prices to applications that require keys. Whenever that key is used, the corresponding number of credits are deducted from the user's total credits. * Audit Trail The MindWire audit trail is the record of all user transactions on the MindWire Server. The server writes audit trail entries for most client requests including logging on, logging off, sending WIP screens, downloading files, posting messages, sending mail, etc. Using the Audit Trail Viewer you can change the way the records are sorted in the Audit Trail windows, filter the entire audit trail for a particular user, date or action, and print the entire audit trail. * WIP Compatibility MindWire is the only platform that offers WIP (Windows Interface Protocol) for the creation of beautiful color Windows menus with images, buttons and much more. Not other Windows online platform gives you the powerful customizability of WIP. * Client Application Manager The Client Application Manager (CAM) is MindWire's utility for launching and updating applications. When users click an application button on a WIP men, MindWire checks the CAM database to see if any of the client application files need to be updated, updates them if necessary, then launches the application. By centering all menuing activity related to launching applications in CAM, users will always be assured of having the most up-to-date application files. * Client Utility Applications User access to basic MindWire Services can be streamlined by taking advantage of command line parameters when you implement client application start-ups in your WIP menus. The Menu Tree, Outline, and other Client Utility Applications can be easily updated by configuring a simple text file and logging it with CAM. ------------------------ * MASTER FEATURE LIST ------------------------ TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * General Architecture Features * MindWire Connector Features * MindWire Client Applications Features * MindWire Administrator Features * MindWire Server Features * FILEX Server Features * Dynamic and Customizable Windows Menus (WIP) * Developers Features ------------------------------------------------ * General Architecture Features + Both the Client and the Server are native Windows applications + MindWire utilizes both a terminal/host "emulation" architecture for graphical Windows menus and a Client/Server architecture for database access and application design. + MindWire uses MS Access databases and ODBC for database access on the server + Complete Network security Built-In * MindWire Connector Features + Auto-dial + Configurable dialing directory + Configurable connection preferences + Built-in WIP menu viewing capabilities + Built-in image viewing and sound capabilities (MediaViewer) + Built-in automatic software updating and installation (CAM) + Compatible with Microsoft RAS (Remote Access Services) with Windows for Workgroups + TCP/IP Built-in for network and Internet compatibility + FILEX modem protocol compatible for easy hassle free modem dialup * MindWire Client Applications Features + Electronic Mail Sound Support Image viewing support File Attachments Long messages Easy tabs for new, opened and sent mail Built-in spell checker Cut, Copy, Paste features Reply and Forward Email messages Address book with Find Member features + File Library Unlimited File Folders Key security for every folder Configurable upload directories Auto-approve or manual file approval Upload, download multiple files simultaneously Auto-view images or any associated file Auto-disconnect after download Auto-view ZIP file contents File statistics with key words File search capabilities Long folder names Short and long file descriptions Command line support + Message Forums Unlimited Message folders Key security for every folder Compose message editor with cut, copy, paste, import and spell checker Read message support with message or Email reply Messages statistics Message sorting Message filtering Scanner provides configurable message viewing preferences Message Log maintains record of your activity in messaging + Chat Multiple Chat rooms Configurable colors Configurable QuickTalk preferences Chat record session Private and public messages Invite user Member profiles with automatic images Automatic easy-to-read word wrapping + Menu Tree Configurable menu tree editor and viewer + Outline Configurable outline utility + Product Ordering Configurable product ordering module Billing, shipping and payment method definable Definable Email reply to Purchase Orders Complete PO generation + Command Line Capabilities Email, File Library, Chat and Message all accept command lines * MindWire Administrator Features + Configurable File Library + Configurable Message Bases + Configurable Chat rooms + Member Mailing Label support for several different mailing label types + Member management and viewing as well as default status + Audit trail viewer with sort, print, view, filter and search capabilities + Audit trail report utility + Configurable pricing (through Credits) + Define default credits, time online and account status and security + Configurable Key security for every user or group of users + Key chains for member 'grouping' + Graphics and statistical analysis of activity * MindWire Server Features + Compatible with Windows 3.1, 3.11, NT, NT Workstation, NT Server + User Connection status windows + Global and Private messaging + Compatible with FILEX Server (up to 8 modems) or/and RAS Server on Windows NT Server (up to 256 modems per PC) + Protocol 'Bender' Built-in for conversion of Netbui to TCP + CAM (Client Application Manager Built-in) + Automatic installation, updating and launching of client applications * FILEX Server Features + Autosense Terminal, FILEX, MindWire or FAX + Up to 8 FILEX Servers on a single PC + Audit Trail for FILEX Access + User security for remote hard drive access * Dynamic and Customizable Windows Menus (WIP) + Images, text, buttons, icons, note fields, text windows, progress bars. + 24-bit color + Automatic updating of menu resources + Mouse fields with bitmaps + Easy-to-use drawing utility * Developers Features + Both Client and Server are programmable via OLE + Access high level functionality in both the Connector and Server such as: - Automatic updating of files and application components - Image and sound support - Internet/network/modem/ISDN access - Over 200 API's for existing server functionality - MS Access database access - Uses ODBC for plug and play database connectivity + The developers guide is FREE + Single Line MindWire Host (Server plus Administrator) is FREE (No Strings Attached) + Distribution of Client Software is FREE + All Windows + All Client/Server + 100% Customizable with WIP (Images, Sound, Text, Icons etc.) + Automatic Software Updating with CAM (Client Application Manager) + Modem, Internet and Network Aware out of the Box + 8 User License + Client Software is FREE ------------------------ * SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS ------------------------ * Client Side Hardware + 386DX or Faster + 8MB RAM + 9600 Baud Modem or Faster + 8MB Free Hard Disk Space + VGA Compatible Monitor Software + MS-DOS 3.3 or Higher + Windows 3.1, 3.11 or NT * Server Side Hardware + 486DX + 16MB RAM + 14,400 Baud Modem or Faster + 15MB Free Hard Disk Space + VGA Compatible Monitor + Serial Expansion Card (for 4 or more modem lines) Software + MS-DOS 3.3 or Higher + Windows 3.1, 3.11 or NT --------------------- * WHAT'S INCLUDED --------------------- MindWire Client Software (free distribution) + File Library Client + Electronic Mail Client + Messaging Client + Chat Client + Logon/Sign-up Client + Account Manager Client + Product order Entry Client + MindWire Connector + Client Side Developers Guide MindWire Server Software (includes an 8-User License) + MindWire Server + MindWire Administrator ACCESSORIES Window Shopper- FREE Allows your clients to shop for products as if they were in the store. Classified Ads- FREE Advertisements can be posted with photographs for your users to respond to. News Flash- FREE Tell your users about the latest news and information. Additional 8-User License To expand your network or Internet connectivity option, DCN offers an 8-User License Option. DC Interface Builder (WIP) DC Interface Builder (WIP) is an easy to use drawing program which utilizes DCN's truly dynamic Windows Interface Protocol (WIP). WIP menus can have images, text files, sound files, Windows icons, scroll bars, buttons and more. WIP provides a way to customize the look and feel of any MindWire Server. DC Compress DC Compress is a universal image compression and viewing utility. DC Compress allows you to compress images with JPEG and CMP while controlling the compression ratio, image size and orientation. Grayscale support is also included. Images can be converted to and from the following formats: CMP, JPG, BMP, TGA, and TIF. FILEX FILEX is an easy click and drag remote file manager for your MindWire Server. FILEX includes easy to use management utilities, file viewers, file conversion, compression utilities, terminal and faxing capabilities. Coming soon from DCN... + QuickCAM- Update your client applications with only pieces of the application + CatalogsPlus- Online product catalog with order entry + QuickBASE- Allow users to search and view images online with MS Access tables. * Competitive Upgrade Offer If you own a competitive product and can prove it, your first purchase of MindWire and ANY accessories will be discounted up to 40%! Contact the DCN Sales Dept. for more information. * VAR's and Reseller's Welcome If you are interested in reselling MindWire or becoming a Value Added Reseller (VAR), we have a comprehensive VAR program available now. We are looking for a few good VAR's and we offer a whole suite of additional services to assist you in your venture reselling DCN products. --------------------- * CUSTOMER SUPPORT --------------------- * Technical Support All registered customers are provided with 90 days of top quality support in the operation and customization of our applications through voice, fax, and our MindWire Server. For details on more extensive options, please contact the DCN Technical Support Department at 805-961-8700. * Contacting DCN DCN prides itself on excellent customer service and superior online products and services. For more information on the MindWire suite of products, please contact the DCN Sales Department. USA and Canada 805-961-8700 International 707-887-3400 We encourage you to call today and download the MindWire client software. MindWire Demo 805-961-8702 mindwire.durand.com Internet: http://www.durand.com =============================================================== [2.2.06] - Windows NT Server Info about the Windows NT Server can be accessed via WWW at: http://www.microsoft.com/ =============================================================== [2.2.07] - FirstClass Server for Windows Macintosh users: For information about Softarc see section; [7.4.02] - FirstClass SoftArc Announces Windows Version of Leading Workgroup Communication Server FirstClass Server for Microsoft Windows to Offer Same E-Mail, Conferencing, Database and Remote Access Functions as Best-Selling Macintosh Product MARKHAM, Ontario - SoftArc Inc., a leading developer and manufacturer of enterprise-wide, cross-platform group communication software, today announced a version of its popular FirstClass enterprise communications server for Microsoft Windows. In conjunction with SoftArc's FirstClass client software - already available for Windows, Macintosh and terminal emulation environments - the new FirstClass Windows server will offer sites with PC servers the full power of FirstClass (previously Macintosh server-based). SoftArc's president, Steven Asbury, acknowledged the influence of strong customer demand in the company's decision to release a Windows server version. "The installed base of FirstClass users has grown rapidly since the product's release three years ago - in fact doubling to over 2,000,000 user licenses in the last year. While this currently makes FirstClass the best-selling group communication software package, we believe there is an even greater pent up demand based on the number of customers requesting a Windows version of our plug-and-play FirstClass server. This new product will allow us to satisfy that demand." The FirstClass Windows server will require a 386 or better CPU running at least Windows 3.1, and will recognize popular PC serial expansion hardware for support of multiple modems. When running under Windows NT, the FirstClass server will offer higher performance and support for additional simultaneous users. FirstClass servers optimized for Windows NT and Windows 95 will be made available following this initial product release. Users of existing FirstClass client software will be able to transparently connect to either the new Windows server or existing Macintosh servers. The Windows server will seamlessly integrate with existing FirstClass servers by network, WAN or modem connection for e-mail exchange and discussion database replication. As with the Macintosh product, the new FirstClass server will accommodate modem and multiprotocol network connections (IPX, NetBIOS, TCP/IP and AppleTalk) as well as take advantage of asynchronous disk I/O and other advanced file system features supported by Windows. While the FirstClass Windows server will work with existing FirstClass gateways, third party developers are working on Windows versions of their shipping FirstClass products. TGF Technologies of Burlington, Vermont, Delphic Software of Redlands, California and World Connect of Toronto all plan to release Windows versions of their FirstClass gateways and extensions. The FirstClass Windows server is now in beta testing and is scheduled for volume shipment in the second quarter of 1995. The price will be the same as SoftArc's current server for Macintosh, available for $690 with licensing for 10 users. Additional platform and protocol options and user licenses will be sold separately. FirstClass is the leading cross-platform, enterprise-wide group communication system, with 2.5 million user licenses sold worldwide. FirstClass integrates state-of-the-art e-mail with group conferencing, access to existing corporate databases, forms processing, real-time discussions and on-line communications functions. FirstClass offers the same ease of use, functionality and robust performance over network or modem, and operates in Macintosh, Windows, DOS, OS/2 and terminal emulation environments. The product is available in 12 languages and is used by businesses, educational institutions, governments and private individuals in more than 30 countries. SoftArc is headquartered in Markham, Ontario, Canada. SoftArc Inc. Global Area Communications SoftArc Inc. 100 Allstate Parkway Markham, Ontario CANADA L3R 6H3. SoftArc Inc. 1902 Ridge Road, #325, West Seneca, New York, USA, 14224 Tel: 905-415-7000 Fax: 905-415-7151 FirstClass: 905-415-7070 Internet: sales@softarc.com WWW: http://www.softarc.com =============================================================== [2.2.08] CYBERSHOP UHS ONLINE CANADA INCORPORATED DATE: 1/27/96 To: clairew@tiac.net From: uhs@achilles.net (Bob Brouse) Voice Phone: 613 722 1288, fax: 613 761 7833, online test site: 613 761 7737 WWW.achilles.net/~uhs/ The Cyber Shop System Software comes in three forms: * Free demo version on our web site * The Cyber Shop Home Office System - a personal online system for home or office - requires MS Windows 3.x or higher running on a 486 IBM compat. PC with 1 modem * The Cyber Shop Pro System -a multiple line system designed to run up to 8 lines per machine (can be networked for more lines) -requires MS Windows NT 3.5x or higher running on a powerful 486 or higher -requires extra i/o hardware for multiple communictions ports such as a Digiboard -1 or more modems The prices are very simple, distrib order is more than ten of either software. The support for the software is from here in Ottawa, this guarantees a high level of 'Know How'. Cyber Shop Home Office v2.0 $109.00 Distrib and $159.00 Retail Cyber Shop Pro System v2.0 $299.00 Distrib and $499.00 Retail (more support) Payment Policy is c.o.d. or payment by cheque before shipping. Accounts are available. ************************************************************** CHAPTER 3 - PC SHAREWARE/FREEWARE BBS SOFTWARE ************************************************************** =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 3.1 - DOS BBS SOFTWARE (SHAREWARE/FREEWARE) =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [3.1.01] - Charisma BBS Info needed for Charisma BBS. =============================================================== [3.1.02] - DLX BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION * Where Can I download DLX? * A note from the author of DLX * Contacing the author of DLX -------------------------------- * INTRODUCTION ------------- DLX has been sold commercially for years, it is now available as freeware/public domain program. DLX runs on MS-DOS and supports up to 32 telephone lines at once on a single computer. It is a social BBS. On a social BBS, the main activity (in addition to file uploading and downloading), is interacting with other callers by chatting or exchanging email. DLX supports two kinds of email, public and private, and two kinds of chatting, one-on-one chatting and Open Forum (group chat), plus questionaires and a matchmaker. * Where Can I download DLX? -------------------------- DLX is available for anonymous FTP from: nexus.nectec.or.th /pub/mirrors/msdos/bbs/dlx70bbs.zip nic.switch.ch /mirror/msdos/bbs/dlx70bbs.zip oak.oakland.edu /pub/msdos/bbs/dlx70bbs.zip plaza.aarnet.edu.au /micros/pc/oak/bbs/dlx70bbs.zip swdsrv.edvz.univie.ac.at /pc/dos/bbs/dlx70bbs.zip terra.stack.urc.tue.nl /pub/simtel/bbs/dlx70bbs.zip If you prefer to download it over a telephone line, you can get it from the DLX Support BBS at (206) 525-0995. * A note from the author of DLX ------------------------------- The complete source code for DLX in the zip file. DLX is written in Microsoft Pascal and MASM. Nothing would please me more than to have some kid in his bedroom write the next great social BBS. You are free to use this source code for any purpose. You may modify it and make your own BBS program, and even copyright and sell your modified version. Happy BBSing! * Contacing the author of DLX ------------------------------ Richard Gillmann, Programmer Inner Loop Software rag@connected.com =============================================================== [3.1.03] - EISBBS * INTRODUCTION --------------- EIS is a complete remote information manager. A remote information manager is a program that allows people who own modems to call your modem and download information, send, receive, and reply to E-Mail. Operate programs that run on your computer from theirs, view catalogs, place orders, talk to the system operator (ie: You), and more. While EIS offers all these services to the people who call your modem, you have complete control over who has access to what parts of your system. You can control access to specific message bases, menus, commands, file directories, and even individual files. If you wish, you can configure the system so only the people that you have already assigned passwords to will be able to access the system at all. * Where Can I download EIS? ----------------------------- EIS is currently available on America Online as EISBBS.ZIP. =============================================================== [3.1.04] - EXECUTIVE HOST FOR TELIX UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.05] - FALKEN BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * FEATURES * ORDERING INFO * PRICE LIST * WHERE CAN I DOWNLOAD FALKEN BBS? * FALKEN DOORS ------------------------------------- * FEATURES ------------ To learn more about Falken BBS you can obtain the Falken FAQ from: From: Bill Bell Newsgroups: comp.bbs.misc,alt.bbs Subject: Falken BBS FAQ Compiled by: William Bell Winter Paradise BBS Fidonet: 1:2613/444 Internet: pp001529@interramp.com * ORDERING INFO ----------------- For Checks/mo in US Funds: Info*Share Inc. P.O Box 1501 Woodbridge, VA 22193 Voice: 703-749-2889 Accepting MasterCard, VISA and Discover. Ordes Mailed 2nd Day Mail. * PRICE LIST ------------- Falken 6.69B 2 liner $99 Falken 6.69B 4 liner $199 Falken 6.69B 8 liner $299 Falken 6.69B 16 liner $399 Falken 6.69B 32 liner $499 Falken 7.0 upgrade $70 Maintenance Renewal 1yr $60 Remote Console Door $50 Match Maker Door $35 FFAT Door $60 Scavenger Hunt $35 GDB Door $30 Info*Share, Inc. is the developer and can be reached via their BBS at 703-749-2889. * WHERE CAN I DOWNLOAD FALKEN BBS? ----------------------------------- Falken BBS can be ftp'd from the SimTel archives at oak.oakland.edu in the SimTel/msdos/falken subdirectory: - fal669b1.zip Part 1 of 2 - fal669b2.zip Part 2 of 2 * FALKEN DOORS --------------- 1. CHESS This is the traditional multi-player Chess game. It allows many of the chess features found in tournament Chess. Features: - RIPscript, ANSI or ASCII play - Play users across on other BBS's thru F-NET - Falken "stealth user" support - Two player interactive online playing - Move-and-wait offline playing - Logon door to alert users of pending moves - Sysop can delete games online - Allows chatting during play - Castling/and en-passant - Scores are maintained - Multi-player "share.exe" support - News file support 2. BACKGAMMON This is the traditional multi-player Backgammon game. Features: - ANSI play - Falken "stealth user" support - Two player interactive online playing - Move-and-wait offline playing - Logon door to alert users of pending moves - Sysop can delete games online - Allows chatting during play - Doubling cube is provided - Winners get BackGammon, Gammon, or single win - Scores are maintained - Multi-player "share.exe" support - News file support 3. CHAT This is a two user character-by-character chat door. Features: Word Wrap - Any ASCII/ANSI combination of users - Falken "stealth user" support - Turn off pages/sends 4. BULLETIN REPLACEMENT This is a bulletin.exe replacement. It allows RIP/ANSI/ASCII customized bulletin menus, continuous read, ability to abort text per page (on the non must-read). Can run as a logon door to force user into bulletins to read must-reads bulletins, and to ask user if he wants to read updated bulletins. Fixed a bug from the original bulletin! 5. FALFILE V3.+ This is a Falken Directory automator. If you have a directory that you want to make a DLOADADD file for, just run Falfile on this directory and it creates a DLOADADD readable text file. It automates filename text entry. Now, it will also optionally read in FILES.BBS and convert to DLOADADD format. This is handy for CD ROMs and for those converting from Opus BBS. Includes a Top Ten downloads list maker, and a New Files Since Date maker. 6. CREDIT CARD DOOR If you sell merchandise (products, shareware doors, or subscriptions to your BBS) via MasterCard or VISA, this is a very useful door. It features 3 doors in one, and support for logon doors and user activated doors for those already online. Features: - It can remind users that they need to subscribe. - Entries are places in account number log file. - The whole door is customized with a simple text files. - CEO support for checking/editing orders while online. - Registered option download password support. - Search via begin/end dates. - Optionally save reports to output file. - Multi-player "share.exe" support. 7. SHOWTEXT REPLACEMENT This door is a showtext.exe replacement. It figures out if the user is ANSI or not and displays an RIP, ANSI or ASCII file. Has the ability to display a filename based on the line number of the caller. Another option is the ability to logoff a user on specific lines after displaying a text file for certain levels. Sometimes non-paying members need to be limited to certain lines. Recently updated to support special "@" commands for internal user/account/system information (ie. @address to display the user's address). 8. WWiV DOOR LOADER This door allows you to run WWiV (chain.txt) doors in Falken. The 3rd party doors must use the FOSSIL, support multiple users and have an option to disable screen writes. Documentation shows some sample WWiV doors. Currently supported on Falken v6.43 and up. 9. DOOR.SYS DOOR LOADER This door allows you to run games written specifically for DOOR.SYS under Falken. Pascal programmers can now write doors for Falken. Supported under Falken 6.43 and up. Recently updated for locked ports, and no write to display option in DOOR.SYS. 10. DIALOUT DOOR This is a multi-purpose door. It allows sysops and users to dial-out to other boards or for linking another BBS to Falken with a NULL modem cable. New in version 2.0, added DialHOST and DialMENU which seamlessly transfers DOOR.SYS and CHAIN.TXT files thru the NULL modem cable using XMODEM CRC, the user then is brought to a menu which selects doors. DialMENU uses the FOSSIL and is compatible with SIO and X00. In console mode the sysop may link Western TLCF, Falken TLCF, download XMODEM, YMODEM, ZMODEM and upload ZMODEM, XMODEM and much more. This is menu based and even checks for BUSY signals. Recently updated for Falken V6.65. 11. BIRTHDAY DOOR This door automatically generates a monthly birthday text file which can be viewed at logon or in a menu. This door also notifies who's birthday is today and congratulates them. This door also acts as a Backgammon and Chess move logon checker, and can operate in stealth (hidden) mode. 12. WESTERN TELECONFERENCE Replaces or adds another Falken Tlcf. A developers kit is available to program doors for Western. Scavenger hunt and High-Low Game are included as Western doors. Allows actions to be customized, RIPscript, and features the best linking EVER! Links support .netwho (see who is on the other systems), .netpage to page users on other BBS's, network aware actions and private whispers through the net and much more! A special .kiss action has randomn 5 customized displays. The whole tlcf is customized by editing configuration files. Scavenger hunt room descriptions can now be customized as well. Make your Falken BBS come alive with real daisy-chain linking with other Falken boards (can even link on DELPHI and MajorBBS!). The linking was recently updated to allow MULTI-CHANNEL links! 13. PUBLIC SCHOOL #13 A neat school where you can throw desks, hit students, throw spitwads, and generally have fun! You need western tlcf main module. This door has a cost saving license. You are allowed to use PS #13 on multiple Western TLCFs on your one BBS for free. PS #13 was recently upgraded to run as a Western Door (freeing up memory). 14. CERTIFICATE AUTO-CREDITS This program allows you to generate a 12 character certificate, sell or give the certificate to customers and they enter the number inside Falken to auto-upgrade their account. You set the options that the program upgrades them with. This program also includes a label printer/maker and 500 entry randomn certificate generator for those without a printer. 15. 900 DOOR/AUTO CREDITS This door is a logon door. You set what line is your 976 or 900 number, then when someone calls that number and logs on successfully it automatically gives them a set number of credits and hangs up on them. Has two new modes of auto-crediting. The first is the option to give some credits to all users once per day, and the seconds is the option to only give credits to people who have zero credits. 16. ACCOUNT UTILITY (transfer credits) This door on credit based systems allows users to transfer credits to users online/ or offline. It will email users with a note if they are offline. A minimum amount of credits is an option to disallow free credits transfer. 17. SCAN MESSAGE BASES This allows users to scan messages base for new messages and display the subject message base and message number. 18. MORE MENUS Allows you to replace GFILES and have a way to display text messages. Some text files are not well suited for Bulletins. Concert schedules, USA Today, Top Ten lists, and help files. Now you may run regular Falken doors through more menus and have unlimited Falken menus! 19. ZMODEM SEND (with CD ROM support) This door is a zmodem send replacement for Falken. It copies CD ROM files to disk before transferring to speed up multiple CD access. 20. UPGRADE DOOR A must for Falken sysops! This door allows sysops to upgrade (validate) users online. Allows welcome to this bbs automated email, fuzzy logic, total configuration, online validation as well as offline, 20 different selections, VERY easy to use. 21. SWITCH (BBSCFG Debugger and Menu Switcher) This program outputs the bbscfg.dat file into a human readable text file. This text file can then be uploaded for support personnel or printed out for reference purposes. "Switch" also allows you to switch Falken menu entries. 22. ACCOUNT RENAMER (fneta) This program renames a directory full of similar filenames (those beginning with account number) easily. For example, some 3rd party doors uses account numbers filenames to keep track of user options. On my system they begin with "tmw" and when when switching to "col" I ran this program as "> fneta tmw col". 23. INTER-WALL for FALKENET This is a multi-BBS wall for FALKENET V3.01. FALKENET (product of Mark Manes and Duane Waddle) is a "Fidonet similar" net email, message base and programmers interface for Falken BBS. Inter-Wall uses FALKENET to deliver graffiti to BBS's across the country. Each BBS shares a common set of graffiti. RIPscript support! 24. CBV (Callback Verifier) - FALKEN 6.65+ SPECIFIC Allows users to validate themselves by having the BBS call and ask for password. All the user has to do is type "ATA " when he hears the phone ringing. CBV verifies the phone number according to local, metro or long distance area codes and exchanges which are site configurable. A logon, menu and phone number checker (stripper) are included with examples. Falken V6.65+ specific door. 25. Email Utility Allows Sysops/Subops to read/delete and maintain email while online. 26. MSGPURGE Utility Run in nightly maintenance mode to kill those dead threads in the message bases... Easy and powerful. 27. 900 Service Door (TABS) A Falken 900 service door which upgrades users accounts, has built-in maintenance, and gives information on how to use the 900 Service provided by TABS (Telephone Access Billing System). For more info on TABS call voice (800) 755-8227 or BBS (407) 722-3406. 28. Falken EchoReader (FidoNet) Features: - EchoReader supporting *.MSG formatted messages. - Supports SQUISH type messages. - Fast nodelist searching using Version7 Nodelist. - RIPscript integrated message base. - Jeditor full-screen editor support. - Quoting of replies supported. - Multi-line support using file locking. - User High message read kept in sync in special FDU files. - External falrenum.exe program to renumber and sync HM. - Nfind.exe door utility to search information in V7 Nodelist. - Intro "welcome" screen for ANSI/ASCII and RIP users. - Realnames optionally set to mandatory or per user preference. - Limit users to areas. - Require realnames in some message areas. 29. Falken Deluxe QWK Features: - Full featured QWK and REP program. - Email, Falken Message Base, Bullnew/Falken Bulletin support. - Falken EchoReader support! - Large Fidonet Message Size (65535 x 128 bytes). - Falken Message Base/Email limited to 8192 bytes. - Logon/Logoff and news files. - New Uploads listed. - PKZIP V1.1 and 2.04G support - When Downloading QWK marks bulletins as read, messages as read, - email as read, acks email from sender. - When Uploading REP automatically updates files immediately. - Download supports Xmodem/Ymodem/Zmodem sends - Upload supports Xmodem/Ymodem/Zmodem receives 30. Falken Super CD ROM Features: - Separate Database per CD ROM - Can mark CD ROM as ONLINE or OFFLINE - If CD ROM is OFFLINE, user may mark messages for email downloading. - If CD ROM is ONLINE, user may download immediately. - Can easily switch CD ROMs and while online send files. =============================================================== [3.1.06] - FEATHERNET PRO UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.07] - FIDOBBS UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.08] - FREESPEECH BBS v3.10a UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.09] - HARMONY BBS * FEATURES ----------- * Easy installation. No long hours spent searching through documentation to get the board up and running. * Security. Harmony BBS uses a technique called valid requirement strings. With these strings (21 in all) the Sysop has thousands of combinations for security. They are implemented throughout the entire system, including accessing the message bases, file transfers, voting booths, news, bulletins, user scans, doors, etc.. Here is an example: S<=50:A>21:D<30:N>5:Q=1 If this were the valid requirement string used in message base #3, only users who had a security level (1-100) of less than or equal to 50, were older than 21, had called in less than 30 days, downloaded more than 5 files, and had access to the post office (private mail) section, would have access to it. This of course is an over exaggerated example, but you get the picture. As stated, there are 100 security levels in Harmony BBS. This may sound small when compared to other BBS programs, but when incorporated into the requirement strings, you see the flexibility you gain. * Imbedded Strings (Sigma Commands). In both the private mail (called Post Office), and the menus, the Sysop can imbed what we call sigma commands. Sigma commands are specific codes that are put in the files, that when displayed to the user, will show specific information pertaining only to that user. There are over 20 sigma commands in all. * Menus are configurable. A full set of menus are supplied with the system that are very professional. The option to make them look however you want is yours since all menus are simple ANSI and ASCII text files. You can make use of the requirement strings to hide options that you may not want certain users to view. Also implemented is a hotkey feature along with an expert modem. All available sigma commands may be printed while the menu is printing. * Internal QWK packer, and a "QWIK session" feature, that when turned on by the sysop, allows users to log on, so directly into a send and receive QWK packet mode, and log right off again. * The installation, configuration, and BBS itself are all professionally windowed and have mouse support, making it easier for the sysop to change user information and data on the fly. * BBS can be configured to be run as a totally open system (with the need for passwords either being enabled or disabled), a totally closed system (with a main BBS password required), or combinations of both. For example, you may want to run a BBS that is closed to certain people from 11pm to 4am. During the day, the only passwords that would be requested would be the individuals passwords, but from 11 to 4, the system password would take over, and the users would need both to be able to log on to Harmony. * ASCII/ANSI/Monochrome/Caps Only support for users. * User auto message. The sysop can disable this if they wish. The user auto message is a 3 line message that can be left by users for the next callers to view at logon. * Built in denial list to restrict specific names during log on. * Separate Quote generation program is supplied. * The sysop can enable or disable the use of aliases throughout the BBS. If aliases are enabled, they can be systematically disabled throughout certain message bases so that messages on that message base can use only real names. * EASY to network. Harmony BBS supports the standard .MSG format used by FIDO (and compatible) networks whenever a new message is created. Once the message has been exported to the network, Harmony will take all the new messages and place them in its own proprietary, fast and packed message base format. Separate addresses and taglines are available for each message base, allowing you to easily join more than one network. * Three internal editors. An ASCII editor, an ANSI editor, and a powerful full screen editor for users with ANSI support. * Supports up to 1,000 message bases, with as many messages in each base as a directory can hold. * Supports up to 1,000 file areas, with as many files in each area as a directory can hold. * All messages (whether through the network, or posted locally) will be appropriately marked if they are directed towards a specific user. The sysop can determine the number of days that they want to keep messages marked, since all marked messages are saved until the user receives it. * Door support. Harmony BBS uses the extended standard DOOR.SYS text file when a door is executed. * Access. The sysop can at anytime turn on and off certain attributes of the BBS. For example, if a specific networked message base wasn't being hosted for some reason, the sysop can just set a flag to turn it off until activity resumes. There are many more places where access flags are used, including the file transfer, post offices, bulletins, and the user statistics themselves. * Downloads can be marked easily as the list is displayed on the screen. This feature, incorporated with batch downloading, makes the file transfer section of Harmony a very friendly place to be. * If a batch transfer is aborted because of a disconnection, and the user calls back before anyone else calls, Harmony BBS will remember what files that they had in the batch queue so that they can continue. * Extensive use of ANSI graphics. When you call a Harmony BBS, you feel alive. * Full interrupt driven modem I/O. Support for locked baud rates, hardware and software flow control, and DTR control. * Internal voting booths, individually controlled by requirement strings. * Internal BBS database that can be updated by users. * Various levels of logging. The sysop can control exactly what it recorded to the caller log. * Separate private mail section. All private letters are kept in a different part of Harmony called the Post Office. * If Harmony BBS is networked, users (with proper security) can send netmail. If they have sysop access, they can send it crash mail. * Smart system news reading. All news can be marked as not required to be read at all, or must be read once. News is also controlled by requirement strings, and only users who meet the requirement will be able to read that specific news. Harmony also keeps track of which news files are new to each user. * Seven internal protocols (including Xmodem, Ymodem, Zmodem, Kermit, and ASCII) with support for many external protocol support. * Credit systems can be activated or deactivated for each file area. A different credit system can be implemented for each base, as in a file/file ratio or a Kilobyte/Kilobyte ratio. * Floppy support for file transfers. The sysop can set up floppies to be used as file areas. Harmony will automatically determine whether a disk is in the drive, and if there isn't, that file area will be deactivated. * Individual time limits and calls per day limits for each security level. * Command line parameters can be passed to Harmony for easy combinations of a front end mailer and Harmony. * NOTE FROM THE AUTHORS ---------------------- For the last 2 years, Harmony has been shelved and no progress (or releases) have been made or scheduled. Since that time, we have been evaluating many options which would allow Harmony to mature. We have finally decided to hand over Harmony to a new group of developers. Look for a new version by the end of the year! =============================================================== [3.1.10] - ILLUSIONS BBS UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.11] - JETBBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION * FEATURES * REGISTERING JET BBS * TECH SUPPORT * Contacting the author via snail mail -------------------------------- * INTRODUCTION --------------- JetBBS v5.0 (JETBBS50.ZIP) for MS-DOS is available at http://www.jetbbs.com, or ftp://ftp.jetbbs.com/jetbbs. * FEATURES ------------ EASY TO INSTALL Takes less than 5 minutes to install, just run "JETSETUP". TOTALLY CUSTOMIZABLE Put any command on any key in any menu, or make your own menus and even make your own commands using the MNU script language. Perfect for special purpose BBSes. SUPPORTS MULTITASKING Fast, smooth multitasking under Windows 3.1, Windows 95, OS/2, and DESQview by yielding unused CPU time back to the OS. You can keep using your computer while the BBS runs in the background. FREE MULTI-LINE No extra charge for running multiple lines on one computer. Includes inter-user color chat channels, touch, broadcast, and who's online commands. EASY TO USE Intuitive arrow-key controlled scroll-bar interfaces for the E-Mail Reader and Message Base, just like a UseNet Newsreader, but does not require special client software since it does everything using ANSI commands. Also fully supports standard ASCII menu-driven access to e-mail and the message base. FULLY FEATURED Includes all the standard features you expect in a BBS: - Supports four of the most common door protocols: DORINFO1.DEF, CALLINFO.BBS, CHAIN.TXT, and DOOR.SYS. - File transfers with ANSI scroll-bar file tagging, keyword search, auto-logoff after transfer, short and long descriptions, download counts, file_id.diz viewer, external transfer protocols. - E-Mail with file attachments, upload text to editor, quoted reply, forwarding, delete/undelete, easy to use arrow-key controlled color mail reader. - QWK mail and REP replies. - Voting polls. EXTRAS Built-in extras you don't find on most BBSes, and some you won't find anywhere else: - Sub-BBSes that you can make users sysop of. - Credit system with mailable checks, various things around the BBS that can be purchased, and a "chargecredits" function so you can put a fee on any menu command. - 8 built-in casino games that use the credit system. * REGISTERING JET BBS ----------------------- Registration is $59.95 + $3 S&H. A registration form is created when the Jet BBS setup program is run. * TECH SUPPORT -------------- For technical support, contact the author of JetBBS (Troy Beckstrom) on the JetBBS support board at (206)LAB-TEAM, or e-mail beckstrom@jetbbs.com. * Contacting the author via snail mail -------------------------------------- Troy Beckstrom 2318 Second Avenue #492 Seattle, WA 98121 =============================================================== [3.1.12] - KBBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * HIGHLIGHTS * HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS * REGISTRATION INFORMATION * Registration gives you the following benefits * Registering KBBS * WHAT IS THE ADDRESS FOR KBBS? * Where Can I Download KBBS? ------------------------------ * HIGHLIGHTS -------------- * Advanced user graphics handling for ANSI and RIP modes, including dynamic questionaires, menus, mode conversion and more. * Based on AWC's Command Sequence language you have complete control over the structure of your BBS. Included are SEQ and display files to allow SysOps to run a WildCat or PCBoard look and act BBS's. * Multi-node, no limit to the number of simultaneous nodes. * SysOp local console RIP viewing without CPU overloading, even on multinode systems. Displays what the user sees, during idle time. * Multitasker aware and Self Aware. Built in thread-level multitasking allows user to be doing something while tasks are processing (such as scanning .QWK & copying files from CD-ROM). * Handles up to 32,700 conferences, each individually configurable for alias/real name, local/private/force echo/etc, conference joining requirements, file attachments, carbon copies, much more. * User driven dynamic conference base. Users create and join their own conferences, which have files, bulletins and more, all under SysOp defined limitations and strict control. * SysOp may force users to read new private mail upon login. * Duplicate message and duplicate upload file checking, and upload file processing, including SDI/DIZ importing & .GIF validation. * All databases are encrypted with SysOp chosen 70 digit encryption key. * All databases use AWC's compression engine for up to 16:1 compression, although effective compression averages 3:1. * All databases have SysOp definable data elements for each record. * Multi-Level conference and file section grouping (headings, sub-headings, sub-sub-headings, etc). SysOp utilities allow easy management of conferences and files. * Alias and Real-name modes, configurable by conference. KBBS can also handle multiple users with the same name or alias (SysOp definable). * Includes QWK/REP mail and echo (net) mail, easy conference setup with mistake checking (no more cross-posting!). User defined prescanning. * Inter-node chatting, public and private, group chatting. * Built-in call back verifier. * New files scanning by (1) File date or by (2) Upload date. * 14 internal protocols, including Zmodem and Kermit. CD-ROM support for copy-before-download. * Powerful event scheduling, and idle-time events (background maintenance that happens while the BBS is waiting for calls or even while the user is online). * Door drop files for PCBoard 14.x, WildCat 2.0, RBBS, and GAP (Door.sys). Door menus optionally show only doors that support the user's detected graphics mode(s). * KBBS takes advantage of EMS, XMS, and DPMI to cache, overlay and swap. * User time/download byte bank with loans, repayment schedule and interest, automatic withdrawls (when flagging files for download), "overdraft protection" and automatic deposit upon logoff (all of these are SysOp definable). * HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS ----------------------- Minimum Setup suggested: An 80286 CPU 512K RAM 8 Megabytes of disk space for KBBS More disk space to store files and conferences A serial modem, 300 to 115200 baud. For better performance, the following hardware is suggested: EMS, XMS or DPMI memory A 386, 486 or Pentium CPU SysOps wishing to view RIP graphics on the local console should have a VGA, EGA, IBM8514, MCGA or Hercules Graphics adapter and monitor, and 600K of free conventional memory. A math coprocessor is also highly recommended. Runs under DOS; multitasking OS (OS/2, DESQview, etc.) required for multi-node operation. * REGISTRATION INFORMATION ---------------------------- The following disabilities have been installed in order to build an incentive to register KBBS: * Phase 1 Unregistered versions of KBBS will cease to operate after Dec 31st, 1994. * Limited to 3 operating nodes. * A tagline stating "Licensed for 30 day evaluation" is appended to all outgoing net taglines. Pre-login "support shareware" message and delay. * Registration gives you the following benefits ----------------------------------------------- * Free upgrades to all versions 2.xx (this WILL include FTS support in later 2.xx versions) * A commercial copy, complete with disks and printed manuals when this becomes available * Unlimited e-mail technical support via the AWC conferences and the AWC BBS (801-489-7910) * Registering KBBS ------------------ Price: $129 (plus sales tax in UT and CO). * WHAT IS THE ADDRESS FOR KBBS? --------------------------------- To register, send a check or money order to; ANDERSON-WILLIAMS KBBS Registration 154 West 400 North Springville, Utah 84663-1010 * Where Can I Download KBBS? ---------------------------- Version 2.0P of KBBS shareware BBS is available via ftp from: netcom13.netcom.com in the /ftp/pub/tcsmith directory. From: tcsmith@netcom.com (Ted Smith) Subject: KBBS updates and Mail List Message-ID: Followup-To: ted.smith@mtnswest.com Keywords: KBBS Organization: NETCOM On-line Communication Services (408 261-4700 guest) Date: Thu, 10 Nov 1994 14:46:04 GMT Updates to the KBBS bulletin board system are available almost daily at ftp.netcom.com/ftp/pub/tcsmith. We've also established a mail list (KBBS-L) sourced from mtnswest.com. To subscribe, send a message to kbbs-l@mtnswest.com with SUBSCRIBE as the subject. Any text in such a message will be lost. Or you can send a message to ted.smith@mtnswest.com requesting that you be manually added to the list. The following files are available at the ftp site: > kbbsinfo.txt -- A brief description of the KBBS program. > kbbs20v1.zip through kbbs20v4.zip -- KBBS Bulletin Board System > kbbs2v40.zip -- Update to v. 40 -- released 11/8/94 > oldfilel.zip > kbbs_abt.zip -- Text about the KBBS program, software and hardware requirements, features, distribution sites, etc. > kbbstodo.zip -- Text listing all of the "TO DO" items that the AWC team has to incorporate into KBBS, as of about 10/25/94. > vbfile11.zip -- Utility to convert VBBS files database to KBBS. > wc3tri10.zip -- Utility for converting from a Wildcat 3.x BBS to TriBBS (utilities for converting from TriBBS to KBBS are included in version S) > sf3tb510.zip -- Utility for converting from Spitfire to TriBBS (See note above re TriBBS to KBBS conversion) For more information about files at this site, please contact ted.smith@mtnswest.com. Feel free to post these files on your bbs or in other locations. -- Ted Smith (ted.smith@mtnswest.com or tcsmith@netcom.com) Mountains West Consulting KBBS Distribution Services & Support Telecommunications Solutions, Training, and Service Mountains West BBS (916-726-2771) =============================================================== [3.1.13] - MAXIMUS v2.01wb UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.14] - Mutant BBS (this info is dated as of 8/94) - Name of program: Mutant v1.19 (Shareware) - Requirements to run the BBS software: IBM AT/286/386/486 compatibles Minimum 384K free memory DOS 3.3 or later Color graphics adapter that does not produce snow Hard Drive (at least 2 megs free) Modem or Rolm data connections Although this is the minimum configuration, Mutant runs much better with the following configuration: - 486 IBM compatible - 600K free Conventional memory - 640K free LIM EMS 4.0 - 64k+ of Upper memory (memory above A000h). - Fast Hard Drive (or big Disk cache) - High Speed Modem - VGA card - Main features: Supports up to 1000 message and file areas, unlimited doors, up to 65535 users, multinodes, sysop definable prompts and menus, and much more. - Author's name: Tom Johnson 6038 Old Landing Way Burke, VA 22015 E-Mail: tjohnson@netcom.com mutantbbs@aol.com - Sales info: Send $40.00 to: Tom Johnson 6038 Old Landing Way Burke, VA 22015 (no extra fee for multi-node) - Tech support info: Help can be obtained by writting the address above, calling one of the two support systems listed below, or at any of the three Internet addresses listed above. - Mutant can be FTP'd from ftp.netcom.com in the pub/mu/mutant directory. - Official support & sales systems: Mutant Support Tom Johnson BBS: 703-425-2235 =============================================================== [3.1.15] - OPUS CBCS UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.16] - OSIRIS XLT BBS SOFTWARE From: wizard@camelot.itc.com To: clairew@pluto.njcc.com Subject: Latest Osiris FAQ Date: Sat, 25 Feb 95 11:22:14 -0600 Osiris XLT v2.11 Multiline BBS Copyright 1985-1995 International TeleCommunciations, All Rights Reserved Can be configured to LOOK just about anyway you want. Osiris uses a command record to define each subsystem. NOTE: Command records are totally BLANK until you start PLUGGING in commands. Command records can be LINKED with OTHER command records to form a UNIQUE BBS system suited to your needs. Some, but not all, of the features found in Osiris: - Easy to use INSTALL program. Most sysops can put a full functional BBS ON-LINE within 5 minutes. - Callers use a THREADED reader to read news and echomail similar to what you'd find on Compuser or a UNIX based newsreader. - Support for MULTI-PORT serial cards such as Digiboard, Stargate, AST, and others. - Supports INCOMING UUCP sessions and can act as an INTERNET HOST site. - Built-in 4-D Fidonet Mailer. Certified FTSC compliant by Tom Jennings, founder of Fidonet. Automatically detects and processes TIC, RAID, and AREAFIX requests. Can handle up to 54 addresses. A.I. Router can auto-route for 54 different networks at once or 54 different addresses within the same network. Mailer Protocols includes Wazoo, EMSI, HSP, Modem7, Telink, Sealink, and Sealink with Overdrive. Unlimited Number of Events. Supports the following Route commands: FORWARD FOR {} NO ROUTE {} SEND TO {} ROUTE {} TO {} HOLD {} BUSY ATTEMPTS {} FORWARD FILE {} MAXIMUM CONNECTS {} POLL {} USE ADDRESS {} For {} ECHO PROCESSING {ON/OFF} GATE {} TO {} Each Noun is followed by ONE of the following verbs: 4-D Address Wild 4-D Address FILES TIC CRASH ECHOMAIL A WILD 4-D address is like a regular address but, you can use the DOS wildcard character '*' in place of any or all of the individual subsections. Like the DOS '*', '*' will match anything in that position. E.g. 1.237.*.0 The WILD 4-D address also supports the question mark. You may use the question mark in place of any single digit within the NODE or POINT fields. E.g. 1.296.20?.0 or 1.296.?00.2? Point-an-Shoot Configuration system. Point-an-Shoot Nodelist Editor. Can edit or add nodelist records WITHOUT having to recompile nodelist. Point-an-Shoot Matrix Editor. Lots of security features including but not limited to: Session Level Passwords Mailer Level Secure Echomail Mailer Level Secure Addressing Lock-out anyone not in nodelist Require SOME type of password for mail pickup. Nodelist Compiler. Robot Mail Utility. Bomb Utlity. Bounce Utility. Fidonet->Internet Email Gateway. Uses Standardized MSG message structure. Almost any Fidonet utility will work with it. Auto-configuration program. Just tell it the node number, your Fidonet address, and it will configure everything for you. - Nearly 550,000 bytes of INDEXED on-line help. - Sixteen STATISTICAL functions available to callers: Todays Callers Yesterdays Callers All Calls Six Best Times To Call Six Worse Times To Call Top 10 Uploaders Top 10 Dnloaders Top 10 Callers Top 10 Msg Posters Connect Rate Graph Protocol Usage Graph Who Called On A Specific Date. Show's YOUR Call History, When you called (last 30-90 days) Average System In-Use Time Show YOUR Downloads (What Files and When) Show YOUR Uploads (What Files And When) STATISTICAL functions available only to the sysop Who downloaded a specific file. What files has a specific person downloaded. Pie Chart showing the user graphic preferences. Downloads for a specific date. Uploads for a specific date. How many people reading each news or echomail area. NOTE: Some Sysop Statistical functions REQUIRE a VGA monitor. - Supports ASCII, IBM , ANSI, and RIP Graphics. - Integrated support for RIP graphics. Nearly every function has a *CUSTOM* RIP counter part. Over 250 built-in Rip screens Over 90 custom slides and buttons Over 50 ICONS Scatter charts Fuel gauges Exploding pie charts Scroll Bars Windows like message editor Text viewer Message reader Will auto-detects WHO you are, after the first call, and automatically logs you on. Built-in RIP Graphic and Sound manager. Will detects missing ICONS, JPEG, GIF, WAV, or Local Play files on the callers system and places them in the callers ICON directory. The caller doesn't do ANYTHING. Will detects *OLD* ICONS, JPEG, GIF, WAV, or Local Play files on the callers system and replace them with NEWER versions. - Fidonet style NETwork matrix mail. - Built-in On-line Store. - Ability to change the internal text prompt and colors. - Support for Novel, 3-Com, Lantastic, and several other Network packages. - Support for Bi-directional protocols such as HS-Link and Bimodem. - Fast B-Tree indexing. - Build subsystems and select commands via a mouse driven System manager. The system manager uses virtual windows, scroll bars, buttons, radio buttons, and check boxes. The System manager even has it's own built-in THREADED message editor. You do NOT have to log-on to the BBS to read/reply to messages. - Flexible security levels and user defined COMPARE methods, including the commands themselves. - Set the NODE, TIME OF DAY, and even the DAY of the week for EVERY SINGLE command, display file, SPL/I command file, or External application. - COMMAND billing system. You can CHARGE the caller on a COMMAND bases. When he or she selects a command, the amount you define is deducted from their credit. - SPL/I, a C like programming language. Comes complete with multiple stage three pass compiler and linker. Generates highly compressed object modules. Supports WHILE, FOR/NEXT, SWITCH, IF/ELSE, controls as well as functions to define and manage BTREE databases and MEMO databases. Over 130 library functions including WINDOWING functions. - Message features include reply, carbon copy, return receipt, attach file to message. - Three log levels: Normal, Heavy, and Ridicules. - Create AUTOEXEC SPL/I Command files that get executed WHEN you are about to LEAVE a subsystem. - Create AUTOEXEC SPL/I Command files that get executed WHEN you change into a new subsystem. - Create AUTOEXEC SPL/I Command files that get executed WHEN you change into a new file area. - Create GLOBAL SPL/I Slash command files that you can access from any subsystem. - Automated maintenance system does the following: 1) Generates New File Lists. 2) Generates File Request Lists 3) Manages Message areas. Removes deleted msgs and keeps areas within a certain number of messages. 4) Manages History logs 5) Automatically Posts System Bulletins on certain days. 6) Automatically Posts Messages in specific Message areas on certain days. 7) Cleans up OLD system bulletins. 8) Converts NEW uploads to correct ARCHIVE format. 9) Removes BBS ADs from new uploads 10) ADDS your OWN BBS AD to new uploads 11) Adds ARCHIVE comments to NEW Uploads 12) Can REMOVE files from selected areas that have not been downloaded in XX days. 13) Delete Callers that have not called within XX days. 14) Delete ZAPPED caller, those with access level 0. 15) Manages UPLOAD and DOWNLOAD database logs. 16) Can run OTHER application on specific days. 17) Can do a SYSTEM wide virus scan. 18) Can do a SYSTEM wide file integrity check to detect files (EXE, COM, OVERLAYS) that may have been altered by a NEW virus. 19) Daily Maintenance Report TO the sysop listing all maintenance activity as well as calls, downloads, uploads, etc. 20) Automatically removes AD's that have EXPIRED (Classified AD System). - Built-In Document Retrieval system. View, download, search text documents. Search option supports up to 8 key words with AND, OR, and NOT parameters. - Built-In definable database's. Just draw the screen display with any ASCII editor and plug in the fields with Dbase style PICTURE statements. You can index on any or all the fields. Search indices using up to 8 key words or phrases with AND, OR, and NOT parameters. - Built-In Classified AD system. Define the name of the data file, access level required to POST ad's, and the MAXIMUM time an AD can run then find a spot and PLUG IT IN. - Give each CD-ROM it's own PERSONAL file system and file areas. System manager will automatically create ALL the file areas, one for each directory on the CD. It can automatically ADOPT files from the CD-ROM including descriptions if the CD-ROM has an ASCII text file listing the files and descriptions. You can use ONE CD-ROM drive with an unlimited number of CD's and ONLY make the file system that corresponds to the CD currently in the drive will show up. Switch CD'S weekly and all you have to do is swap the disks, Osiris does the rest. You can delete a CD's files and file areas with a single CLICK of the mouse. In 1/100th of a second, everything associated with that CD disappears and WITHOUT effecting anything else. - Automatic caller notification of System bulletins based on the callers LAST time on-line and the date the system bulletin was posted. - Define your OWN method of doing system bulletins. - Single line file descriptions with optional 99 line EXTENDED file descriptions. - Built-in Automatic Virus scan on any newly uploaded file. - Scans NEW uploads for ANSI BOMBS. - Automatic Archive integrate checking. - Auto-Detects and uses: File_id.diz Desc_des DESC.diz and several other embedded description files. - View the contents UC2, ZIP, ARJ, SQZ, ARC, ZOO, and LHARC files. - View a TEXT file inside a UC2, ZIP, ARJ, SQZ, ARC, ZOO, or LHARC archive. - Nest subsystems 32,732 levels deep. - Full Screen ANSI/WORDSTAR compatible message editor. - Full Screen Mouse, Scroll Bar, ICON Driven message editor. - Line editor with Quoting. - Upload Messages using any protocol. - TWO built-in (No Doors Required) Off line readers, QWK and BLUEWAVE. - Select ONLY the message areas you want to read. - Subdivide message areas into CATEGORIES. - Subdivide file area into CATEGORIES. - Define access levels on INDIVIDUAL files in the SAME file area. - Automatically builds and sends a FILExx.DES description file when downloading files. FILExx.DES contains the names and descriptions of the files you downloaded along with the DATE, WHERE you obtained the files, and WHO to notify if something is wrong with the file. - Automatic notification of NEW uploads. - System manager automatically scans and displays NEW uploads to the sysop. No more having to HUNT them down. - TWO time billing systems. One works on DATE, the other works on TIME spent ON-LINE. - Download billing system. Bills user based on DOWNLOADS. - Extract and REARCHIVE individual files. - Hooks for an unlimited number of external application such as on-line games. Just click and enter the name of the program. - Built-in time and kilobyte banking system with ATM. Automatic withdraw if you need time or kilobytes to complete a download or log onto the system. - Built-in Call Back Verification system. - Unlimited number of EXTERNAL file transfer protocols, BATCH files are NOT required. - Define your OWN startup sequences, i.e. what Osiris does as soon as the caller types in his name and password. - Define your OWN new user sequences, i.e. what Osiris does after the caller enters his or her user record information. - Define your OWN logoff sequences, i.e. what Osiris does when the caller selects to LOGOFF. - Auto File Recovery. If you lose carrier or hang-up and have files selected for downloading, Osiris will REMEMBER what those files were and automatically add them to the download queue when you call back. - Prodigy style rotating Rip AD system. Completely configurable. - Time Slicing Support for Desqview, Windows 3.1 and OS-2. - ANTI-OLD File Uploads. You can specify a year and a percentage and Osiris will check the DATE stamp on new uploads and if it finds the "PERCENTAGE" of files contained in the archive are OLDER than the allowed date, the upload is rejected. - InterBBS Echomail features: Point and Shoot Configuration Areafix Echomail notification system EID dup checking backup CRC dup checking MSGID dup checking Multiple level security system including Packet level passwords. Echomail BILLING system. - TIC/Raid Processor. - Supports up to 8000 message areas. Callers can SELECT which areas they want to read. One, any combination, or all 8000 and Osiris will TRACK the messages they have and have not read in ALL the areas. - Supports over 1 billion file areas. - QWK echomail utilities. - UTI utilities. - Newsgroup Support includes but not limited to: Uses *ORIGINAL* subject line, up to 1000 characters, when replying to a message. Full Followup-To Support. Full Reference Support. Replies are automatically routed back to ALL the newsgroups the original message was posted to, unless redirected by a followup-to control line. NOTE: Newsgroups line contain the NAMES of all the newsgroups and only ONE PHSYCALLY message is sent. Caller can elect to have a reply sent via e-mail. Entire system designed so that no caller can cause problems, Even posting something to the wrong newsgroups can be prevented. So easy to use they don't need to know ANYTHING about USENET. In fact, they may not even notice that it is a newsgroup area. System is rock solid, over a million newsgroup messages, so far, handled without a single mishap. - INTERNET utilities include: Incoming Ftpmail server Anonymous FTP Interface Archie Interface List Server Newsgroup Import/Exporter E-Mail Whois Interface Fidonet To Internet E-mail Gate. Internet HOST package featuring: Intelligent Router News feed program supporting mixed archive formats (compress or gunzip). Can feed up to 1000 sites. UUCP connect time billing and statistics program News-server. News-server lets those you feed turn newsgroups on and off remotely. - Can be HOOKED-UP LIVE to Internet with FTP (IN/OUT), ARCHIE, TELNET (IN/OUT), and GOPHER using a SLIP/PPP, T1, or 56K line using BBSnet by Murkworks, Inc. - Technical support: Internet . . . support@hq.itc.com Voice . . . . (314) 686-0154 11 AM - 7 PM CST (M-F), 11 AM - 4 PM CST (Sat). Fax . . . . . (314) 686-0154 BBS . . . . . (314) 686-0120 - Registration starting as low as 39.95 for a single line system. - Four generally maintenance release PER year and they are ALWAYS provided FREE. A tradition since 1985. - You find a bug in the Osiris.exe that we can verify and if it is something we have control over, we'll fix it within 72 hours and it is FREE. A bug in something we don't have control over, like a compiler or commerical library, may take a little longer. Software requires 386 or higher CPU, 350K of Memory, Color Monitor, and Mouse. Shareware Software can be obtained Anonymous FTP Location : server.netcom.com (IP: 192.100.81.1) Directory: /pub/intltel Fidonet File Request Location : 1.296.5.0 Magic Name: OSIRIS Direct Downloading Location: Genesis Phone : (314) 686-0120 =============================================================== [3.1.17] - PHOENIX BBS UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.18] - QUICKBBS QuickBBS Support BBS (407)896-0494 Product Support for QuickBBS Software Richard Creighton/Steve Gabrilowitz, Orlando, FL =============================================================== [3.1.19] - RemoteAccess TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION TO REMOTEACCESS * WHO IS THE AUTHOR OF REMOTE ACCESS? * FEATURES GENERAL FEATURES FILE TRANSFER SECURITY ELECTRONIC MAIL Real-Time Conferencing External Program Support (Doors) System Operator On-Line Functions System Presentation * REGISTRATION * WHERE CAN I DOWNLOAD REMOTE ACCESS ON THE INTERNET? * RA SUPPORT VIA WWW ------------------------------------- * INTRODUCTION TO REMOTEACCESS --------------------------------- The RemoteAccess BBS-package has been written by Andrew Milner, and is released by Wantree Development. The current version of Remote Access (RA) is 2.01. RemoteAccess should run on any IBM 80x86 compatible computer. The only two programs you will need in addition to the release package are DOS 3.x and a FOSSIL driver (the FOSSIL is a memory-resident program that many communications packages use to communicate with the modem). Two FOSSILs that have been successfully tested with RemoteAccess are Ray Gwinn's X00, and David Nugent's BNU. Either of these should be readily available from any local bulletin board. You will also need a modem that is capable of accepting Hayes-type commands. The minimum memory requirement is approximately 350K, but 512K is recommended. * WHO IS THE AUTHOR OF REMOTE ACCESS? ------------------------------------- Andrew Milner's BBS: Fido: 3:690/418 BBS #:61-9-385-3359 BBS Name:Wantree Development INTERNET: andrew@wantree.com.au FEATURES ---------- The archive containing the Shareware version of Remote Access doesn't contain a separate list of features. The registered version does. It has one at the beginning of the manual that is sent to you after registration. You should keep in mind that this list is taken from the manual of the professional version, which differs from the registered shareware version in a few respects. Please refer to the registration topic of this section for an overview of the extra features of the professional version. To find out which features aren't available in the non-registered version, you'll have to skim through the RA.DOC file you'll find in the RA_201 archive. The non-registered version isn't crippled in any way. The only difference is, it does not include a few features the registered version offers, but does not interfere with the BBS operation. GENERAL FEATURES ----------------- + Full-screen integrated configuration environment. + Multi-node; supports up to 250 users concurrently. + Full Local Area Network (LAN) support including enhanced functions under NetBIOS compatible LANs. + Support for DESQview, DoubleDOS, MultiLink, PC-MOS/386, TopView and Windows multitaskers. + Support for detection and time-slicing for OS/2.2xx. + Supports multi-line on-line messages between nodes. + Full system and user audit security logging. + Support for the popular FidoNet technology. + Direct support for high speed modems up to 38,400 baud. + Full support for 16550 buffered serial I/O devices. + Built-in screen blanker while in "wait for call" mode. + Automatic remote ANSI detection (supports terminal programs that are ANSI X3.64 compliant). + Support for Interactive EMSI automated log-on and user parameter detection, eliminating the need for users to enter their name and password at log-on. + XMS swapping support. + Support FAX/Modem operation and can be used in conjunction with FAX software to receive incoming faxes as well as BBS callers. + Provision to create custom log entries using a menu function. + Supports the FSC-0035 Internet gating specification. FILE TRANSFER ---------------- + Databased file system providing fast responses. + Up to 65535 separate file areas, each with it's own configurable set of characteristics including upload, download and file list security and flag settings, file group assignments, and more. + Supports the most popular file transfer protocols. + Full support for single and multi-disc CD-ROM devices used in the file database. + Interface system to install up to fifteen external protocols. + Fully configurable file ratio system allows the Sysop to decide what criteria must be met in order for users to download files. + Optional 'no download' peak hours time slot. + Optional 'upload reward' system. + Checks for duplicate uploads globally (configurable for each file area). + Optional scan for new files at log-on (with or without file tagging). + Ability to flag any file as free and/or password protected. + Ability to specify a list of known files which may not be uploaded. + Internal support for external bi-directional transfer protocols. + Provision that allows users to download a text file containing the descriptions of their downloads. SECURITY ---------- + 65535 seperate security levels. + 255 separate user groups which can be used to completely segregate groups of users. + Security filter allows the Sysop to specify a list of undesirable user names and phone numbers. + Provision for users to leave a message to the system operator after a password log-on failure. + Optional forced password change every certain number of calls. ELECTRONIC MAIL ---------------- + Each message area may be defined as local, EchoMail of NetMail area. + Full FidoNet point aware. + Full FidoNet nodelist support, including comprehensive on-line browsing facilities. + Full outgoing NetMail accounting, and complete control over individual destination node costing. + Two seperate message database formats (JAM and Hudson) can be defined and used simultaneously. + Definable origin line and network address for each message area. + 'High-read' message marker maintained for every user in every area. + Full reply quoting capability, in both the full screen and internal line message editors. + Ability for users to send files with messages to other users. + Group Mail feature allows users of a certain security level to post 'blanket' messages to users based on user group or security level. + Support for carbon copies within message areas. + Support for message and/or NetMail return receipts. + Provision to restrict access to message areas based on user age. + Combined message areas allow users to define their own 'folder' of message areas. + Configurable message area status including private, public, private/public, read-only and no-reply settings, applicable to each individual message area. Real-Time Conferencing ----------------------- + Full user-to-user chat capabilities. + Supports up to 125 seperate simultaneous conferences. + Extended managment functions for conference moderators. External Program Support (Doors) ----------------------------------- + Ability to generate almost any required interface file. + Support for locked high speed modems. + 'Memory Swap' feature can swap the main program to XMS, EMS, or disk file, leaving only 3 kilobytes resident during a shell. + Full support for the 52-line extended DOOR.SYS exit file standard. System Operator On-Line Functions ----------------------------------- + Range of 'hot-key' functions available, including lockout, shell to DOS, and log to printer. + Complete user attribute editor available or making changes to users while they are on-line. + Provision to use alternate paging tunes. + Network manager utility provides complete control over a busy multi-node system. System Presentation --------------------- + Fully multi-lingual (up to 100 languages). + Comprehensive script language for building custom interactive questionnaires. + Complete control over menus and general system layout. + Hotkeys or command-stacking selectable per user. + 'Shell to mailer' feature for quick startup from a front end program. + Full ANSI and AVATAR level 0+ terminal emulation support. + Global menu commands. + Comprehensive range of text files displayed automatically under certain conditions. + Comprehensive set of text file control codes allow you to display system and user data and change certain system settings directly from within text files. + Support for 'once only' user bulletins at the system, message area and file area levels. * REGISTRATION --------------- You may try RA for a period of three weeks on a trial basis in order to determine it's suitability for your particular application. After this period you must register each copy of Remote Access that you run simultaneously. Multi-line installations that share a common file base and have the same name need only register one copy. Site and Group registrations are available, and are dealt with on a case by case basis. Registration can be done in two ways, depending on the kind of system you are running. There is a shareware and a professional registration. For a shareware registration a system must be physically run from a noncommercial site. A site is considered to be noncommercial only if it is a private residence at which no commercial activities are conducted. NOTE: As of this release, the shareware version only supports a maximum of two (2) nodes. The Professional version supports up to 250. Shareware Registration can be done at the following sites, at the following prices: AUSTRALIA: AUD60 CANADA: CDN60 ----------------- -------------- "Registration/RA" "Registration/RA" C/- Terry Harvey C/- Royce Jones PO Box 593 PO Box 1825 Burwood NSW 2134 Bracebridge ON AUSTRALIA CANADA Accepts VISACARD, MasterCard, BankCard USA: $50 CONTINENTAL EUROPE: DM90 -------- ------------------------ "Registration/RA" "Registration/RA" C/- Ed Meloan C/- Frank Altenburg 1110 Terrace Circle Drive Wickopweg 9 North Augusta SC 29841 64289 Darmstadt USA GERMANY ASIA: AUD60 or equivalent UNITED KINGDOM: GBP33 ------------------------- ---------------------- "Registration/RA" "Registration/RA" C/- Teo Chee Kian C/- FlightPath BBS PO Box 0685 PO Box 268 Bukit Merah Central Hounslow TW5 9PZ SINGAPORE 9115 UNITED KINGDOM Accepts MasterCard, Access, Visa Cheques and money orders should be made payable to the person at your registration site. Please include either a FidoNet address or a stamped, self-addressed envelope so that receipt of your payment can be acknowledged. A professional registration applies to every system that is physically run from a commercial site (ie. the site is NOT a private residence, or commercial activities are conducted at the site). The professional version includes three modules that are not available in the shareware version: 1. Real-Time Conferencing - supporting up to 250 users concurrently, featuring public/private/password-protected conferences, conference moderators and sub-conferences. 2. RANETMGR - The RemoteAccess Network Manager, a utility designed to give you complete control over a busy multi-node system. Dynamically view the status of each node as users log on and off, what each user is doing, broadcast messages to any combination of nodes and automatically take any combination of nodes down for maintenance. 3. RAEdit - A fully functional, specially customised and registered version of GEdit, a premium full-screen message editor. The professional version supports up to 250 nodes and 100 languages, while the shareware version supports a maximum of eight languages and 2 nodes. * WHERE CAN I DOWNLOAD REMOTE ACCESS ON THE INTERNET? ----------------------------------------------------- The shareware version of RemoteAccess is available on the Internet at the following sites: - NIC.FUNET.FI (in /pub/msdos/communications/bbs/); - FTP.WUSTL.EDU. - XMISSION.COM:/pub/other/ra - FTP://ftp.pcmicro.com/ * RA SUPPORT VIA WWW ------------------- http://pcmicro.com/ra/ =============================================================== [3.1.20] - RENEGADE Renegade is a bulletin board program written by Cott Lang for DOS systems. It can run on an 80186 in 285k ram, but a 386DX-25 with 2 megs RAM is a more adequate minimum. The actual full install minus any modifications is around one megabyte on a hard disk. TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * FEATURES * Utilities * COST * SUPPORT * GETTING RENEGADE BBS * Other locations * FEATURES ------------- Messages Bases + Unlimited message length + Built-in QWK-Style Offline Mail System + Full Screen editor with powerful editing features or easy-to-use line editor File Transfers + Convert incoming archives to the archive of your choice + Allows use of external scanning programs for virus protection + Use external and bi-directional protocols + Automatically imports FILE_ID.DIZ and DESC.SDI descriptions Easy & Configurable Front End Shuttle Logon + Makes it so new users can apply without seeing the actual system + QWK-Mail users can do their packet transfers without having to go through the entire logon process. Local & Remote Sysop Control + Password protect local console and remote sysop functions + Complete system control from remote Network Support + FidoNet support (node addresses) for message bases + QWK Defined message bases for QWK networking + Seperate taglines for each message base Multi-Node Support + Supports Digiboard 8-node boards and networks + Maximize timeslicing under OS/2, Windows, and DesqView + Full-featured Teleconferencing system Multiple Welcome and Menu Screens + Menus made in ANSI format with any ANSI drawing package + Easy modifications allow user-selectable menus + Random and daily menu display capability Configurable Color Selections for Sysops and Users + Users can select from a predefined set of colors for various things such as message, prompt, and text color. Emulation Support + Detects RIP, ANSI, AVATAR, and VT-100 on login + IEMSI auto-login detected Online Doors + Generate one of 6 different drop files: DOOR.SYS, CHAIN.TXT, DORINFOx.DEF, PCBOARD.SYS, SFDOORS,DAT, or CALLINFO.BBS * Utilities ---------- Third party utilities can be found at ftp.cc.umanitoba.ca in /renegade or at many BBS's running Renegade. Some utilities include: + New User Voting - Users vote other users in + Security Robot - Random password, check new user information. + CDROM Utilities - Import FILES.BBS for quick uploading of CDROM areas. + Network aids - Documentation for setting up FrontDoor, BinkleyTerm, etc. * COST ------- Renegade is freeware. It may be freely distributed in unmodified form. The author has no objections to donations, however. A $25 donation is suggested, which gets a VIP account on his multi-node BBS. * SUPPORT -------- Renegade is user-supported. A large international network of Renegade systems, the RGSNet, can be accessed from many Renegade systems for questions or comments. Forums on FidoNet are also dedicated to Renegade discussion. * GETTING RENEGADE BBS ------------------------ Renegade is distributed in two ways: As a full install package for first time users, and also as an update package for existing Renegade setups. Be sure to get the right package. There is a serpate documentation file which first-time sysops should also get. The version is determined by the date of distribution, ie. Renegade 05-31 is the May 31, 1994 version. Renegade can be found on Internet at; ftp.cc.umanitoba.ca/renegade. It can also be freely downloaded from many BBS's running Renegade. Ask the sysop to make sure. Renegade BBS FAQ: http://www.primenet.com/~bungee/rgfaq.html * Other locations ----------------- Digital Frontier Library of Trantor Sysop: Cott Lang (author) Sysop: Ben Lineback Roswell, Georgia Douglasville, Georgia 1-404-955-5375 1-404-920-7711 The Midnight Run Excalibur's Realm Sysop: Rikk Streng Sysop: John Norman Washington, New Jersey W.Paterson, New Jersey 1-908-689-1754 1-201-256-0691 The Jungle The Dragon's Nest Sysop: Charles Bowman Sysop: Jesse Waldack Fayetteville, N. Carolina Bloomington, Minnesota 1-910-488-1954 1-612-887-2147 The Shed Sysop: Dave Sawford United Kingdom +44 (0)223 563468 =============================================================== [3.1.21] - ROBOBOARD BBS INTRODUCTION -------------- Roboboard BBS is a Graphical user interface. In order for the users to connect to your BBS they will have to use a special terminal program. The program may be downloaded at the first connection. Opposed to other BBS's which have a graphical interface as an option (That is BBS who support RIP protocol), and can be used without the GUI, Roboboard is GUI only. There is no ANSI - Ascii option. Technical info: ----------------- ROBO-BOARD v1.08 (PLUS)........................ $55.00 (USA) $65.00 (CDN) 80.00 (DM) This version of Robo-Board is registered in the SysOps name. It features operation of up to 9 nodes. ROBO-BOARD v1.08 (PRO).(w/KEY)................. $65.00 (USA) $75.00 (CDN) 100.00 (DM) Where Can I Download A ShareWare Version Of RoboBoard? ------------------------------------------------------- On the internet there are two versions. The Robo108 is not on any site currently. The Robo106 is on various sites. They differ in the configurable template screens which the 108 has and the 106 hasn't. The program is currently available at wcarchive.cdrom.com /.3/garbo/pc/bbs as robobbs.zip, with the terminal inside. RoboBoard's Tech Support: -------------------------- Author of RoboBoard BBS: Seth Hamilton Support: NAME : The ROBO-BOARD HQ in Aylmer Quebec, Canada. SYSOP : Seth Hamilton LINE 1: 1(819)685-0957 1200-14400/v32bis/v42bis LINE 2: 1(819)685-6798 1200-14400 HST VOICE : 1(819)682-6670 (9:00-5:00 Mon EST) FAX : 1(819)685-0994 MAIL : 62:6200/0 (WorldNET) Looking at the pros & cons of RoboBoard ------------------------------------------ PROS 1) On contrary to other packages Robobard sysops can view the graphics locally. 2) The quality of the graphics is VGA <=> EGA 3) Supports a standard Hudson message base for networking. 4) Offline Mail option Using Silver Xpress version 4.01, which comes with it's built in graphic screens. 5) Drawing, and planning menus is very easy and intuitive. 6) Installation is very simple, and takes about 5 minutes to get the BBS up and running. 7) Built in DeskView support. 8) Supports dorinfoX.def doors 9) Will run on a 286 and higher. The FX needs a 386 on both the sysop and the users' side. 10) Built in Split screen chat 11) Supports speed up to 38000 12) Registered version will support up to nine nodes, including built in IRC like chat. 13) Comes in with predefined screens resembling a nice "Windows " look. 14) Supports one channel music. CONS 1) Security and other configurable options are not part of the configuration and are determined in a separate file. 2) Message handling is weak. Only full quoting of the text is possible. 3) Not many doors available for the Graphical format. 4) Some of the optional files and screens disabled in the Shareware version. 5) Limited command options. You will have to build your screens with few commands as options. =============================================================== [3.1.22] - RYBBS UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.23] - SAPPHIRE BBS v4.05 UNDER CONSTRUCTION Pinnacle Software BBS, (514)345-8654 Support for Sapphire BBS Software Timothy Campbell/Pinnacle Software, Montreal, Quebec =============================================================== [3.1.24] - SPITFIRE BBS v3.4 UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.25] - SuperBBS UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.26] - Synchronet BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * CONTACTING SYNCHRONET * SYNCHRONET PRICING * FEATURES The most advanced BBS security Programmable Command and Menu Structure QWK message off-line reader and networking support built-in Extensive File Transfer Section Inter-node message services Real-time user database Chatting artificial intelligence engine Up to 500 online external programs The most configurable BBS available today Extensive networking capabilities ---------------------------------- * CONTACTING SYNCHRONET ------------------------ Synchronet Multinode BBS Software Copyright 1994 Digital Dynamics PO Box 501 Yorba Linda, CA 92686 Voice: 714-529-6328 BBS: 714-529-9525 V.32bis FAX : 714-529-9721 529-9547 V.FC FIDO : 1:103/705 529-9721 ZyXEL * SYNCHRONET PRICING ------------------- 2 node licence..............$ 99.00 4 node licence..............$199.00 8 node licence..............$299.00 16 node licence.............$399.00 250 node licence............$499.00 Professional Packages: 4 node package..............$499.00 8 node package..............$699.00 (Professional packages include: node license, shipping, QEMM Memory Manager, DESQview 386 Multitasker, & 4 port High Speed Seriel Cables) # of nodes that can be run under DESQview on one computer & amount of memory needed: CPU Nodes Nodes MB of RAM 386-16 1 2 3 386-25 2 3 4 386-33 3 4 4 386-40 4 5 5 486-25 5 6 5 486-33 8 7 6 486-50 10 8 6 NOTE: You can run more than the suggested number of nodes, but performance will decrease with each additional node. * FEATURES --------- + Designed from the ground up as a reliable and feature rich multinode BBS + Up to 250 simultaneous nodes with multinode chat and online program support + RIPscrip graphical user interface and mouse support! + Enhanced DESQview, Windows, and OS/2 operation modes + Runs under DOS 3.0 or higher on any 80x86 compatible computer with 450k free RAM - BBS can shrink to 288 to execute external programs + Automatic modem configuration for most modem brands and types including the latest 28.8k modems The most advanced BBS security -------------------------------- - ARS {tm} security provides the most flexible, comprehensive, and user friendly security available in the BBS software industry - Post/Call ratio, connect rates, time of day, and other user data fields can be elements of any ARS security field - Caller ID support with optional trash-can file - 100 security levels with 104 sysop configurable flags per user - Sysop can allow or disallow users to choose their own passwords - Sysop can force periodic password changes (uniqueness is also forced) Programmable Command and Menu Structure ----------------------------------------------- Includes free Baja shell/module compiler Users can select a shell of their choice including emulations of other BBS packages (Wildcat!, MajorBBS, PCBoard, etc) QWK message off-line reader and networking support built-in Off-line file requests --------------------------------------------------------------- - Off-line new message scan configuration and pointer adjustment - Send FidoNet or Internet NetMail from QWK REP packet - Multiple compression formats supported - File attachments optionally automatically included Extensive File Transfer Section ------------------------------------ - Unlimited external transfer protocols with optional DSZLOG support. - Batch uploads, downloads, and bidirectional file transfers - Transfer credit system is completely configurable - File viewing, extraction, and partial downloading of archives - FILE_ID.DIZ and DESC.SDI files can be automatically imported into extended file descriptions - Personal user to user(s) file transfers - Optional batch download file flagging for user convenience - Internal support for offline directories - Directories can be sorted by filename or date, ascending or descending. - Complete CD-ROM (single and multidisk changer) support Inter-node message services -------------------------------- -Current node status - user online, action, connect rate, and more. - User activity - credited downloads, mail activity, logons, and logoffs. - Users can list active nodes and send private messages from any prompt (even between external programs and the BBS) - Multichannel multinode chat with optional channel password protection - Private real-time node to node character by character chat with remote split screen support - Users can send telegrams, single line messages, or enter private chat from any prompt - User information (gender, age, location, etc) can be included in node status display Real-time user database ---------------------------- - Amazingly complete user edit function - Remote changes to online-user data are immediately effective - Disk image is always current for enhanced system fault tolerance - Linked free-form data file for every user - International address and phone number support Chatting artificial intelligence engine ----------------------------------------------------------------- Multiple personalities available for your users Up to 500 online external programs ----------------------------------------- - Multiuser or single user programs - Programs that use DOS I/O (don't use COM port directly) supported - 12 door file formats supported for an incredible level of compatibility including: DOOR.SYS, PCBOARD.SYS, USERS.SYS, CHAIN.TXT, DORINFO#.DEF, EXITINFO.BBS, SFDOORS.DAT, CALLINFO.BBS, DOORFILE.SR, and UTIDOOR.TXT - Supports native WWIV color code expansion The most configurable BBS available today ------------------------------------------------ - Powerful object oriented menu driven configuration program - All menus, text, and colors are sysop configurable without source code - New User Questionaire is available and customizable - All standard new user questions can be disabled individually - Over 120 message variables (@-Codes) supported Extensive networking capabilities -------------------------------------- - Internal QWK network hub and node support with file transfer ability - FidoNet EchoMail and NetMail support - Send/Receive File Requests from within Synchronet - UTI drivers for PostLink Networks (RIME, ILink, etc) - Sub-boards can force real names - Allow/disallow/force private posts and anonymous posts per sub-board - Supports color codes for WWIV, PCBoard, Wildcat, and Celerity - Support for multiple networks of the same or different network technologies with different addresses and tag/origin lines - Duplicate message checking using 32-bit CRC for QWK and Fido Networks =============================================================== [3.1.27] - TAG BBS Info needed for TAG BBS. =============================================================== [3.1.28] - TELEGARD Info needed for Telegard. =============================================================== [3.1.29] - TRIBBS UNDER CONSTRUCTION TriBBS is written by Mark Goowin (mgoodwin@trisoft.com), and the home BBS is Lobster Buoy, in Maine. All TriBBS files are available for FTP from ftp.iaccess.za, in the pub/bbsing/tribbs directory. =============================================================== [3.1.30] - TURBOBOARD UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.31] - UltraBBS TOPCIS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION * CONTACTING UltraBBS * Snailmail Address --------------------------- * INTRODUCTION ---------------- UltraBBS has been in BBS business since '90. The main programmer is currently Craig Baker, a professional programmer who also runs a computer store in Boulder, CO. UltraBBS is a shareware DOS program and registration is required after a reasonable trial period of 30 days. Registration price is currently $75. UltraBBS isn't crippled in any way, so all you get when registering is your name in the login screen. Main features include a very powerful B-tree index which is used for very quick filebase searches, built-in message encryption, internal QWK system and all the usual things. There are several third party utils for UltraBBS, for example several bulletin generators, filebase managers, filelist generators etc. For the latest utils, here's the contact info: * CONTACTING UltraBBS ------------------------ Craig Baker email cdb@pinecliffe.com BBS: UltraBBS HQ EuroUBBS support Pinecliffe UBBS Underground UBBS (303) 642-7463 +358-39-374265 (ZyXEL 19k2) (303) 642-0703 +358-39-374719 (USR 21k6) (303) 642-0971 +358-39-374823 (Zoom 28k8) v32b/HST, 16 nodes +358-39-374311 (ringdown) * Snailmail Address ------------------- Craig Baker PO Box D. Pinecliffe, Colorado USA 80471 For internet users, please use the address avij@spt.fi for questions instead of the author's address for a quicker reply. The current version is now UltraBBS II v3.01 revision B, filename ubbs301b.zip. =============================================================== [3.1.32] - VISION-X TOPCIS IN THIS SECTION * VISION-X FEATURES * VISION-X ORDERING INFORMATION as of May 1st, 1994 -------------------------------- * VISION-X FEATURES ------------------ - USER Configurable MENU Support - 100 Conference Support - Real-time multinode chat - Leech Z-MODEM dectection (Anti-Hacker utility to detect illegal file transfer) - File Deletion after D/L w/ user access of 20 - 100 Independent Message/File Conferences - Unique and fully secure MATRIX for Loging on and Applying - Built in Netmail Support - File Upload Checker - Rumours and One Liners - Up to 99 welcome screens displayed randomly - HST and 16.8k support with locking up to 38400 - Coloured messages - Configurable color selections for sysops and users - VGA Support - Configurable Matrix/Pulldowns - Online User Editor - Turbo Chat - Multi-Node Support - Desqview and OS/2 Aware - Network Capable - New User Voting with Comments - FULL ANSI support (and detection) - Animated screen open and closing (Terminator 2 inspired) - Online Doors * VISION-X ORDERING INFORMATION as of May 1st, 1994 -------------------------------------------------- Introductory price - $99 and $5 for shipping and handling. Phone number to contact: (214) 361-8249 (voice) e-mail: golla@seas.smu.edu - (Prasad Golla) =============================================================== [3.1.33] - Waffle BBS Waffle was designed to connect to the UUCP network, which is a network of many thousands of machines, the majority of them running some variety of Unix. TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * CAPABILITIES & FUNCTIONS OF WAFFLE/DOS * Other resources ----------------------------------------- * CAPABILITIES & FUNCTIONS OF WAFFLE/DOS --------------------------------------- * Allows a PC to communicate with Unix systems using the UUCP "g" protocol, giving them capability to exchange UUCP mail and Usenet news. Contains DOS equivalents for UUCICO, UUXQT, UUX, UUQ, UUCP, RMAIL, RNEWS, and a news & mail reader. * Can be run as an single-user, individual UUCP node. * Can be run as a BBS program, including electronic mail, messages, editor, transfer section, access controls, external programs, cookies and numerous other amenities. * A scheduler can execute DOS commands (such as polling neighboring sites) at specific times or on a regular basis. * Mail facilities include mail aliases, address routing, folders, gatewaying of E-Mail into Usenet newsgroups. * Usenet News facilities include support for batched & compressed news, the ability to give other sites newsfeeds, access control on a per newsgroup basis. * Hooks are provided for gating both mail & news into external networks (or specific programs). * Supports FOSSIL communications driver in addition to native interrupt package, for those with high speed modems. * Other resources ---------------- The Waffle FAQ is available via anon ftp from rtfm.mit.edu =============================================================== [3.1.34] - WWIV WWIV Software Services P.O. Box 720455 McAllen, TX 78504 WWIV Software Services can be e-mailed at filo@wwiv.com Author: Web Site: http://www.wwiv.com FTP Site: ftp://ftp.wwiv.com E-mail: info@wwiv.com Current version: v4.24a Shareware: $80 for two node registration. When you register you can connect to WWIVnet, a national network of WWIV-BBSs which facilitate the transfer of messages via a WAN type of service. (One packet is sent, analyzed by the receiver, who then calls another BBS and sends the updated packet, etc) WWIV network software is free with your registration. You also receive the Source Code on disk which lets you modifiy every aspect of the software to fit your system's needs. (Software written in C) No programming experience required. If you have a C compiler, many sysops release "mods" which are detailed instructions on how to add specific functions/features/add ons to the "virgin source code." =============================================================== [3.1.35] - ProBoard TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION * FEATURES * SUPPORT Support via fax Author and support team via E-mail Support BBSes * Proboard Mailing List * REGISTERING PROBOARD ----------------------------------------- * INTRODUCTION ------------- ProBoard provides the ability to run a multi-node BBS, allowing more than one user to be online at a time. It's small size and lightning fast speed make it ideal for running under a multi-tasker like DESQview, or on a network. ProBoard also fully supports the ability to interface with mail networks such as FidoNet, UseNet, EchoNet, and mail processors such as SQUISH, FastEcho, GEcho, Fmail, and others. The greatest asset of ProBoard, is it's ability to be enhanced by you the user, through the use of programs written in C/C++ using the provided ProBoard SDK (Software Development Kit). You can do virtually anything with your BBS using the SDK and a C/C++ compiler. Programs written with the ProBoard SDK are called PEX (ProBoard Executable) files. This built in "PEXability" assures you that there's nothing ProBoard can't do! You do not have to be a C/C++ programmer to enjoy the benefits of ProBoard's SDK or these PEX files. There are many 3rd party PEX files available for ProBoard right now with more being released every day. Call one of our support BBS locations or get the PROBOARD file distribution echo from 1:282/30 or 2:291/1905. Through it's SDK, ProBoard offers the user with a desire to learn C/C++, the ability to do so with a more gentle learning curve. ProBoard has the ability to run most, if not all doors programs and other utilities written for other BBS systems such as PCBoard, QuickBBS (QBBS), SuperBBS, RemoteAccess (RA), etc. When running an external program, ProBoard can swap itself to disk/EMS, and stay resident in approximately 2KB of memory!! ProBoard is highly configurable because it allows you to use either the SQUISH, Fido Compatible *.MSG, JAM or the HUDSON message base formats for the contents of your message base. In addition to supporting all four of these formats for the message base, ProBoard allows you to configure your BBS to use all four at the same time. Name one other BBS that allows you this flexibility! Not flexible enough yet? Consider then that ProBoard allows you to configure up to 10,000 message areas, and additionally 10,000 file areas. ProBoard also supports the use of CD-ROM drives. Most, if not all, known utilities for RemoteAccess (RA) v1.11 as well as RemoteAccess v2.x, will work with this version of ProBoard. ProBoard is remarkably easy to setup with the supplied PROCFG.EXE file. Most users are up and running within a few short painless (even enjoyable) hours. * FEATURES ------------ This following is a list of the most important features found in ProBoard. - ProBoard is a fast QuickBBS-style BBS program! It's completely written in highly optimized C++ and assembly language. - Full multi-line/multi-user support. Up to 255 nodes can share the same user database, message base and file database. - Support for 4 message base types: Squish, Hudson JAM and *.MSG, all at the same time. - Support for up to 10,000 message areas and 10,000 file areas. - Compatible with most, if not all, doors written for other BBS software such as RemoteAccess, QuickBBS, PCBoard, etc. - A software development kit is included with ProBoard! You can write your own extensions to ProBoard using C or C++. Programs written with the SDK run "inside" ProBoard, for maximum flexibility and speed. The programmer doesn't have to worry about modem communications, user files, etc. This is totally unique! No other BBS software offers anything that even comes close. - Integrated, lightning-fast duplicate file checking on uploads. - Extremely fast indexed file system, while still using the standard FILES.BBS-based file system. - Full CD-ROM support. The CD-ROM drive is not accessed until a file is actually downloaded. It is then only accessed to copy files to a local drive of your choice freeing up the CD-ROM for other requests. - Flexible protocol configuration. You can install any protocol directly in ProBoard (even bi-directional protocols are supported). Protocols that can be installed in ProBoard include X/Y/Zmodem, MPT, BiModem, HS/Link, etc. - Very flexible security system with over 65,000 security levels and 32 security flags as well as "reverse" flags. - TTY, ANSI, Avatar (0 and 0+) terminal emulation. - Swaps itself to disk or EMS when shelling to an external program (door), leaving only 2 (two) Kb resident! - REAL-TIME multi-line chat built in. No stupid line-per-line chat. - Direct support for all high speed modems (up to 64,000 bps). - Extremely user-friendly configuration/maintenance utilities. - Full RIP support, and unlike other BBS packages that leave the sysop looking at cryptic RIP codes, we even display the menus your non-RIP callers see, on your end so you can see what's happening on your BBS. - Built in file tagging system. - Automatic validation of users using a sophisticated "template" system. - Powerful User Editor including filter function, allows you to easily find and work with only the users you specify. - (TheBank) time bank included, provided as a PEX file for seamless integration into ProBoard. - Ability to specify an external message editor either as door or as a PEX file. - Ability to specify an external chat program, either as a door or as a PEX file. - Fully "data driven" system usage graphs, even in RIP mode. - Ability to limit menu selections by age, baud rate, sex of user, time online, or time of day. - Full Language support. Every prompt in the system can be changed (including color) and saved in a language file, as well as multi-language support for menus and textfiles. - Internal QWK support, provided as a PEX file for seamless integration into your BBS. - User name can optionally be added to FILES.BBS when user uploads files. - Powerful "Free Files" functions, great if you're running a support BBS, or a BBS to promote your company. - Fully buffered I/O for optimum system performance. - Fully definable paging hours for every day of the week. - Support for OS/2 2.x time-slicing. - "Sysop Next" function, with definable "alert" music, as well as semaphore file support. - Ability to call menu editor while user is online (or in local mode) and edit the current menu. Great for testing, or in case you see something that just HAS to be fixed while a user is online. - Built in file counters, shows which of your files are the most popular. - Built in "flag description" editor, helps you remember just what all of those flags you have are for. * SUPPORT ----------- ProBoard is available on CompuServe (IBMBBS forum). For problems, bug-reports, etc. please write to: ProBoard International ProBoard USA ---------------------- ------------- Philippe Leybaert Jim Biggs Groenplein 15 P.O. Box 22444 B-9060 Zelzate Robbinsdale, MN 55422-0444 BELGIUM USA Support via fax ------------------ +32-9-343-0592 (Europe) +49-711-581319 (Germany) (612) 537-8613 (U.S.A.) +61-2-560-5755 (Australia) Author and support team via E-mail ----------------------------------- - Philippe Leybaert : FidoNet (2:291/1905) : CompuServe (70314,2021) - Jim Biggs : FidoNet (1:282/30) : CompuServe (70712,3030) - Constantin Spiess : FidoNet (2:246/1013) : PB-NET (246:6106/0) - Christian Kraus : FidoNet (3:712/607) Support BBSes -------------- If you have any questions or comments, or you need utilities for ProBoard, call one of these support boards: - The O-Zone BBS - ProBoard Support/Registration USA Sysop: Jim Biggs Hours: 24/24 Speed: 1200-19200 (v.32bis/ZyXEL 19200) BBS : (612) 537-8659 FAX : (612) 537-8613 Fido : 1:282/30 - The Home of ProBoard - Worldwide ProBoard Support Sysop: Philippe Leybaert Hours: 24/24 Speed: 1200-19200 (v.32bis/ZyXEL 19200) BBS : +32-9-343-0592 Fido : 2:291/1905 - Base 999 - ProBoard Support Luxembourg Sysop: Alain Fontaine Hours: 24/24 Speed: 2400-16800 (v.32bis/ZyXEL 16800) BBS : +352-95273 Fido : 2:270/24 - City BBS - ProBoard Support Sweden Sysop: Mattias Pettersson Hours: 24/24 Speed: 2400-16800 (v.32bis/ZyXEL 16800) BBS : +46-26-141740 Fido : 2:205/206 - The Dealer's BBS, ProBoard Support/Registration Germany Sysop: Constantin Spiess Hours: 24/24 Speed: 1200-19200 (v.32bis/ZyXEL 19200) BBS : +49-711-581319 FAX : +49-711-581319 Fido : 2:246/1013 - OnTron Australia BBS, ProBoard Support Australia Sysop: Christian Kraus Hours: 24/24 Speed: 1200-14400 (v.32bis) BBS : +61-2-564-2172 FAX : +61-2-560-5755 Voice: +61-2-564-2545 Fido : 3:712/607 - The Happy House Sysop: Alain Schellinck Hours: 24/24 Speed: 1200-19200 (v.32bis) BBS : +32-9-238-1610 Fido : 2:291/1900 * Proboard Mailing List ------------------------ From: Alvin Brinson Newsgroups: alt.bbs,alt.bbs.allsysop,alt.bbs.internet,alt.bbs.ads Subject: Proboard Mailing List Date: Sun, 14 May 1995 01:45:14 -0500 Organization: USiS Internet Services +713 682 1666 Lines: 18 NNTP-Posting-Host: usis.com Mime-Version: 1.0 Check out the Proboard Mailing List - for ProBoard sysops, PEX coders, and anyone interested in Proboard! [ Alvin Brinson - elfren@usis.com ] [ alternate address: alvin_brinson@eterninc.blkbox.com ] [ FidoNet 1:106/7008 ] ---------------------------------------------- [ **>> Proboard Mailing List Coordinator <** ] [ send to: listserver@eterninc.blkbox.com ] [ "CONNECT proboardlist" in body of message! ] * REGISTERING PROBOARD --------------------- ProBoard is shareware. This means that you are granted a 60-day evaluation period, after which you must register. You will receive a registration key file through netmail or it will be uploaded to your BBS if you don't have a FidoNet node number. If none of this is possible, please indicate this on your registration form, along with what size diskette you need and we will mail you your key on a diskette. Arrangements can also be made for you to download your key from the ProBoard USA support BBS. Registration fees for commercial and non-commercial use are as follows: Non-commercial Non-commercial Commercial Registration Registration Registration only + manual + manual USA & Canada 49 US$ 69 US$ 249 US$ Belgium & Luxembrg 1850 BF 2400 BF 8995 BF The Netherlands 99 FL 129 FL 599 FL Germany 99 DM 129 DM 599 DM =============================================================== [3.1.36] - VBBS/Virtual BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * FEATURES * Who is the author of VBBS? * CORE Support BBS ----------------------------------- * FEATURES --------- - Extremely easy setup - Multinode support for up to 9,999 users online available (SHAREWARE version supports up to 4 users online) - Supports up to 999 networks completely transparently at any one time (including VirtualNET, Fido, UUCP, WWIV based, QWK format, and VRIME is in development for RIME based) - Unsurpassed menuing and BBS presentation options - Easy to learn VSCRIPT script language programming and modifying - Built in QWK door for Offline Readers - Built in ansi Full Screen Editor (w/ 36+ text color choices) - X,Y,Zmodem, Zmodem Batch and HS-Link downloads and uploads (BBS & Network) - Automatically adds Archive comments to uploads - Files attached to email local and Network - Automated offline file requesting - Automated Networked File requesting (networked feature). - Surveys and Voting - Multiuser Teleconferencing with port status, paging and seperate "rooms" - Prepared text uploads in email & messaging (even from inside of the editor). - Easy to use quoting feature in email and messaging (Configurable Quoter) - Configurable 'N' scans - Easy to set up Games and other external online programs (nearly unlimited presentation options) - Save to ascii/ansi text any public or private message - Form letters - Unlimited number of message subs, file dirs, games and other databases - User defined macros (32,767 lines per macro) - Built in user time bank - System bulletins and textfiles across drives - Random messages (up to 3 lines) - User phone charge accounting system - Up to 20 seperate timed events per day (or put multiple in a batch file) - 36+ user definable ansi screen colors (including background color) - File archive viewing. - Access coding throughout - Unique Dual purpose (ansi color and ascii) menuing system. - Pull down menus (PDM) configurable. - Full messaging and file search functions - Efficient binary storage of messages and all system text - Built in daily clean-up. - Optional System activity display at logon - Fast Login from console - Configurable WFC Screen blanking - Mail forwarding (even across multiple networks, and multiple types) - Assignable function key Control Panel at WFC - Highly informational and customizable WFC.COM screen. use THEDRAW to customize - Full CD Rom or WORM capable databases - Runs as a door in whole OR in components from nearly any other BBS program - Extensive log information - Macro capable Networking software included - Built in Ansi/RIP Autodetect - Read and write Email from WFC - Enhanced and definable Sysop functions - Split Screen Chat - "Pseudo" Dos (allows sysop to perform Dos functions w/ user online) - Multi-Mail Mailing lists (up to 9 lists) - Multi network CC:s - Definable Moderator (SubOp) fields for message and file bases - SysOp security uploads - Uses full advantage of DSZ for upload and log info - Ansi Taglines (optionally random) - Built in BBS Diagnostics - Definable Function Blocks for totally configurable hot key menus - STACKed menu functioning capable (Up to 999,999 menus stacked upon 1) - Configurable Autovalidation of SysOps - Supports optional use of FOSSIL driver - Ascii, Ansi, and Enhanced Ansi operation with Pull Down Menus - Multiple SysOp/Co-SysOp feedback. - Handles/Real Names/Annon toggle for each messaging sub and file uploads. - Auto-callback account verification and reverse call capability - Message bases and file areas can be either "Flat" or "Layered" arrangements - Online Hypertext help system - Built-in Online User Test/Quiz system * Who is the author of VBBS? --------------------------- Roland De Graff Holland MI * CORE Support BBS ----------------- Virtual ComTech International Inc. VirtualComTech Node 1 --> 1 616 399 4818 VirtualComTech Node 2 --> 1 616 399 8791 Secondary Support BBS/On-line registrations: VBBS Business Board Node 1 --> 1 210 787 8974 VBBS Business Board Node 2 --> 1 210 787 0088 =============================================================== [3.1.37] - GRAPEVINE BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION * GRAPEVINE'S PRICES * For Grapevine utilities write * INTRODUCTION ---------------- Multi-node; FidoNET(s) support (MSG tosser included); built-in QWK and BlueWave mail; ASCII, ANSI, AVATAR, RIP, and NAPLPS support; multi-node; editable prompts; Desqview aware; and much more! Easy setup, maintainance, and use. AUTHOR - mike.hindle@f700.n353.z1.fidonet.org * GRAPEVINE'S PRICES -------------------- $55 (canadian) registration. $40 US 27 (British Pounds Sterling). * For Grapevine utilities write ------------------------------ Internet E-Mail: jschone@eis.calstate.edu jeff.schoner@solar.org OR FidoNET Net-Mail to Jeff Schoner @ 1:103/900.985. =============================================================== [3.1.38] - Tiny Host UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [3.1.39] - GAP BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * Requirements * Main features * PRICES * COMPANY'S ADDRESS * Requirements ---------------- IBM AT or 100% compatible (386 required to run Multi User under a Multi Tasking system such as Desqview). 640K memory 1 360K floppy drive 1 Hard Disk (20MB minimum) CGA, EGA, or Monochrome monitor Hayes Smartmodem or 100% compatible DOS 3.3 or greater. ANSI.SYS which is loaded upon boot up SHARE.EXE (if running on a network or other type of multi-user system) * Main features ---------------- None specified beyond the usual message bases, file areas, text sections, and DOOR.SYS type doors. * PRICES -------------- Single Node - $ 79.00 3 Node - 159.00 6 Node - 259.00 99 Node - 359.00 Upgrades (difference in total price) Product Support Renewal (1 year) 35.00 Printed Manual 10.00 * COMPANY'S ADDRESS --------------------- GAP Development Company 24242 Porto Fino Dana Point, CA 92629 =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 3.2 - OPEN YOUR WINDOWS TO THE WORLD! =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [3.2.01] - Ghost BBS Ghost BBS is an enhanced host for Procom for Windows. Author of Ghost is Greg Hommel - Internet address: gregg.hommel@canrem.com =============================================================== [3.2.02] - PowerBBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION * Features for PowerBBS for Windows 4.0 * PowerGenerator * Hardware * Installation and Support * Pricing and Ordering Information * Product Pricing * PowerBBS Support Sites * PowerBBS Internet Mailing List * PowerBBS App Reference List ----------------------------------------- * INTRODUCTION ---------------- Hicksville, NY, January 2 -- PowerBBS for Windows 4.0 is scheduled for release January 20, 1994. This latest incarnation of the first Windows BBS program breaks new ground with a proprietary Windows terminal program for use as a client. This new client, PowerAccess 1.0, allows callers to PowerBBS 4.0 systems to interact with the BBS using a Windows multimedia interface. Callers connecting to PowerBBS systems with PowerAccess will see icons, buttons, shapes and graphics. They will also hear Windows WAV and MIDI files if they have a sound card. This makes PowerBBS systems much easier to use than standard ANSI based systems. Unlike standard ANSI and RIP systems, this client-server approach to BBSing permits callers to perform tasks simultaneously. Callers will be able to transfer files while chatting in teleconferrence, reading mail, or performing other BBS related operations. All operations are easily handled with a simple point and click interface. Callers can even upload and download files at the same time, all while still interacting with the other parts of the BBS. PowerAccess also has strong graphics support. Callers can request previews of graphics from the BBS before downloading. Previews are only about 7,000 bytes and provide true 24 bit color. If a caller decides to download a graphic, he can choose to view it directly from within PowerAccess. There's no need to switch to another program just to see the file. PowerAccess also has its own built-in mail reader. Downloading mail and reading it off-line is fully automated. Callers can even download and upload mail simultaneously. The mail reader comes with an address book where callers can enter commonly used E-Mail addresses. There is also a special "groups" feature that permits the callers to group E-Mail addresses for broadcasting a message. PowerAccess also supports ANSI and ASCII. This enables a caller to run ANSI based doors on PowerBBS systems. Callers can use PowerAccess to call standard ASCII and ANSI BBSs eliminating the need to switch to an ANSI based terminal. PowerAccess is distributed royalty free to PowerBBS sysops and is free to all callers. PowerBBS for Windows 4.0 is a full featured BBS package that has grown considerably since its release in 1989. The BBS supports ANSI/ASCII/RIP callers in addition to callers with PowerAccess giving it the broadest possible caller base. The Telnet/FTP add-on gives the sysop instant access to callers from around the world through a SLIP connection. * Features for PowerBBS for Windows 4.0 ------------------------------------------ * Messaging Up to 1,000 message areas (public or private) Internal QWK Mail Support Support for Internet mail and newsgroups Support for FIDO style mail Public and private file enclosures Flexible security for message areas Support for Microsoft Mail via MAPI Gateway * Files Windows based file manager for easy file maintenance Bulletproof security Multiple file areas Support for third party upload checking programs Automatic importing of file_id.diz files Built in support for viewing contents of ZIP files CD-ROM support Internal X/Y/Z-modem and Kermit protocols Proprietary bidrectional protocol for PowerAccess connections * Teleconference Supports multiple "rooms" Each room can have separate actions and/or moderators Restrict room access by security level Actions can have sound for PowerAccess callers * Database Support for dBASE compatible databases via PowerBase add-on Single record and multirecord views One database can be linked to teleconference as a User Registry Support for indexing Download files directly from a database * Other features Built in programming language with over 60 commands Over 80 "macros" to display caller information Support for doors using DOOR.SYS even for PowerAccess callers Caller ID support Send/Receive Fax support Free Software Developer's Kit to create BBS add-ons Highly customizable Multiple language support Support for ratios and/or credit systems Support for handles * PowerGenerator ----------------- PowerGenerator is required to make custom screens for callers to your BBS using PowerAccess. If PowerGenerator screens are not available, PowerBBS will use ANSI versions of those screens. Menu screens can be created using PowerGenerator. If these custom screens are not available, PowerBBS will automatically create generic versions of these screens. PowerGenerator is an extremely easy to use and very powerful screen creation program. Features include: Color icons that can be inset or raised 3-D fonts that can be inset, raised or shadowed Buttons Various shapes with different borders Import graphics as background bitmaps or pictures on the screen or both! Objects can have sound attached to them Full access to all internal PowerBBS menu commands Special proprietary PowerAccess only commands * Hardware ------------ Supports modems up to 28.8 Supports ports locked at up to 57600 Up to 8 remote nodes per PC Local nodes only limited by memory PCs can be networked together to add more nodes Runs on any Windows compatible network Network log-ins supported Support for multiport cards such as Digiboard Requires 386 with 4M RAM and Windows 3.1 or WFWG 3.1 * Installation and Support ------------------------- Four line BBS open 24 hours a day for free unlimited tech support Comes with 200 page illustrated manual * Pricing and Ordering Information ------------------------------------ PowerBBS comes complete with 3.5" disks and a bound manual. If you continue to use PowerBBS beyond a reasonable trial period (45 days), you are legally and morally obligated to register the software or discontinue using it. PowerAccess is a royalty free terminal package. No charge is required for its use. Upgraders: If you have not received an upgrade notification in the mail, contact Russell Frey on the Support BBS with your sysop name and serial number to get the latest pricing information. * Product Pricing ------------------ PowerBBS v4.0 (1 Node) $109 PowerBBS v4.0 (2 Nodes) $199 PowerBBS v4.0 (4 Nodes) $399 PowerBBS v4.0 (16 Nodes) $699 PowerBBS v4.0 (255 Nodes) $1299 PowerSuite* $199 Telnet/FTP Add-On** $149 PowerBase $149 [included in PowerSuite] PowerGen $50 [included in PowerSuite] *PowerSuite includes PowerEdit, PowerBase, PowerGen, and MAPI! **Allows both Incoming & Outgoing TELNET & FTP sessions for complete INTERNET connectivity! Note: Orders may be placed by credit card at 1-800-242-4775 or 1-713-524-6394. Or Fax your order to: 713-524-6398: include your Credit Card Number, expiration date, and card holders name when faxing an order. Make Check or Money orders in $US$ drawn on a US bank, payable to Russell Frey. Send it to: Russell Frey 35 Fox Court Hicksville, NY 11801 Please leave any inquiries about pricing to Russell Frey on the Support BBS. Call 800-242-4775 voice or BBS 516-822-7396 for additional pricing information Download the fully functional shareware version from the Support BBS at 516-822-6948 (2400), 516-822-7396 (14400) or 516-822-7568 (28800) or FTP Powerbbs.ic.net * PowerBBS Support Sites ------------------------- - PowerBBS Support BBS: 516-822-7396 or 516-822-7568 - Compuserve: GO PBBS - America Online: Search the Telecom Forum files for "PowerBBS" - FTP sites: powerbbs.ic.net or powerbbs.mhv.net * PowerBBS Internet Mailing List ----------------------------------- Send mail to "majordomo@ic.net" and write "Subscribe PowerBBS" in the body of the message. * PowerBBS App Reference List -------------------------------- 2/27/95 "*" = New or updated since last group send of the "App Reference List" PowerBBS Files ============== * PowerBBS v4.01 (PBBS401A.ZIP/PBBS401B.ZIP) Russell Frey * PowerAccess v1.01 (PACC101.ZIP) PowerBBS Computing * PowerGenerator v1.01 (PGEN101.ZIP) Brad Friedman Quick Patches ============= * PowerBBS v4.0 --> v4.01 (BBS401.ZIP) Russell Frey * PowerAccess 1.00 --> 1.01 (P100-101.ZIP) PowerBBS Computing PowerBBS Information ==================== * PowerBBS 4.0 Press Release & screen shots (PBBS4INF.ZIP) * PowerGenerator Press Release & screen shots (PG1INFO.ZIP) PowerBBS Utilities ================== * Powredit v2.2 (POWRED22.ZIP) Bill Ebina * WhoCalld v4.0 (WHOCALL4.ZIP) Bill Ebina * TopUser v4.0 (TOPUSER4.ZIP) Bill Ebina * LogOff v1.0 (LOGOFF.ZIP) Bill Ebina PowrUSER v1.0a (POWRUS1A.ZIP) Brad Friedman & James Carr PowrNODE v1.0 (POWRND1.ZIP) Brad Friedman PowrSTRIP v0.4 (POWRST04.ZIP) Brad Friedman PowrNEWS v1.1 (POWRNW11.ZIP) Brad Friedman & Ronny Brodin Pdoor*sys v2.6 (PDRSYS26.ZIP) Stephen Nolan * PBBS Administrator v4.01(ADMN401.ZIP) Todd Calvin PowrSort v0.8 (POWRSRT8.ZIP) Mark Newton PowerBBS - MS Mail Gateway v1.6 (?) Ronny Brodin ZipView v1.0 (?) Ronny Brodin PBBS Interactive Help v0.9(?) James Carr Birthday Generator v0.2 (BDAY02.ZIP) James Carr PB3ALV96 (PB3ALV96.ZIP) COOKWARE Software * PowerTICK v1.0 (?) Charles Jones PBBS File List Manager v1.32 (PFLM131.ZIP & PFLMUP32.ZIP) Gerral Reeves PowerBBS-Only Doors =================== * Poker for PowerBBS v1.0 (CSSPOK1.ZIP) Bill Ebina * BlackJack for PowerBBS v1.0 (CSSBJK1.ZIP) Bill Ebina * In-Between for PowerBBS v1.0 (CSSINB1.ZIP) Bill Ebina * Pyramid Solitaire v1.01 (CSSPYS1.ZIP) Bill Ebina * Hi-Lo for PowerBBS v1.01 (CSSHILO1.ZIP) Bill Ebina * Golf Solitaire for PowerBBS v1.0 (CSSGLF1.ZIP)Bill Ebina Graffitti Wall v0.1 (?) James Carr General Store v0.1 (?) James Carr ******************************************************************* + PowerBBS Software and utilities are available for download on the 4-line PowerBBS support bulletin board at (516) 822-7396 [9600-14400] connections or (516) 822-7568 [2400-28800 bps] . + Also available on both Compuserve (GO PBBS), America Online, and via FTP at powerbbs.ic.net (If anyone has updates or can fill in missing or incorrect info, please send info to Brad_Friedman@cville.com. Apologies in advance. BF) =============================================================== [3.2.03] - Front Line for Windows TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION * Features * Host Mode Features * Where can I download Frontline? * Contacting the Author * Registering Front Line ------------------------------------------- * INTRODUCTION --------------- Front Line is basically a replacement for Terminal For Windows. More importantly it can be used as a Front End for Excalibur (PDQComm Replacement) or as a simple host for the desktop. Frontline is very simple to use and the only part that is different from other terminal programs is the host options. * Features ----------- - Potocols: Xmodem Checksum, XmodemCRC, XMODEM -1K(YMODEM), Ymodem-G, Ymodem Batch, Zmodem, Compuserve B +, ASCII - Multiple Comm Port Configurations - ANSI, TTY, VT100, VT52 Terminal Modes - Font Settings on the Fly - Change Terminal Colors - Support Serial Ports 1 - 8 - Scroll Back Features - Capture Data - Baud Rates - 1200 - 57600 - HOST MENUS - Basic Message System for the SysOp - Configurable Basic Menus (Host Mode) - Use Ansi Screens - Uploading / Downloading * Host Mode Features -------------------- The Host subsytem of FrontLine supports: - X/Y, Kermit, ZModem Download/Upload protocols. - Log Manager which is very useful with MultiLine Systems - Editable Logon - Ansi Menu Support - Email To Sysop - User Listing which can request Address Information if the Sysop Desires. - Comm 1-8 support, Bauds 1200-57600. * Where can I download Frontline? -------------------------------- Frontline is currently available on America Online in the Windows Forum. Keyword; Win * Contacting the Author ------------------------ Internet: mcsonic@netcom.com AOL: Sonic Mike or Via Internet: sonicmike@aol.com BBS: 916-349-8517/8540 (ANSI or Excalibur Users) * Registering Front Line ------------------------ To register send a self addresses stamped envelope with one high density (1.44) three & a half inch floppy disk & registration fee of $20, to: SONIC SOFTWARE P.O. BOX 41073 SACRAMENTO,CA 95841 =============================================================== [3.2.04] - WinBBS Contact Information: Steve Martyn TechMate Communications Inc. 112-4001 Don Mills Road Willowdale, ON M2H 3J8 Canada Internet: E-mail: martyn@idirect.com Home Page: http://techmate.idirect.com/ Modem: (416) 498-0594 (To download WinBBS/Client) TechMate Online: (905) 508-1842 (Requires WinBBS/Client) Voice: (416) 493-0966 Fax: (416) 498-8537 ************************************************************** Chapter 4 - BBSing With OS/2 ************************************************************** =-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 4.1 - OS/2 Q&A =-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [4.1.01] - WHAT IS OS/2? Os/2 is a preemptive, multitasking operating system with a windowing, grapihcal interface developed and distributed by IBM. =============================================================== [4.1.02] - WHY NOT JUST DOS? In most cases, a BBS needs a multtiasking operating system to run multinode. The major contenders for this functionality are Desqview, Windows, and OS/2. Desqview runs on top of DOS and therefore carries the extra overhead. Windows, while also running on top of DOS, is not a true preemptive, operating system. =============================================================== [4.1.03] - WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF OS/2 AS A BBS? OS/2 does not run on top of DOS, and is a preemptive, multitasking operating system. It not only runs OS/2 BBS systems, but also multitasks DOS-based BBS systems. =============================================================== [4.1.04] - WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF OS/2 AS A BBS? It is a full operating system. It is not dedicated to the BBS processes. The BBS proecsses are competing with operating system processes. =============================================================== [4.1.05] - WHAT BBS SOFTWARE RUNS IN OS/2? Most DOS-based BBS systems will run in a OS/2 DOS shell. A few other developers have built special versions of their BBS systems, optimized to run in OS/2's DOS shell. A still smaller number of BBS systems are written specifically for OS/2. =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 4.2 - OS/2 SHAREWARE/FREEWARE BBS SOFTWARE =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [4.2.01] - Oblivion UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [4.2.02] - KITTEN TelPro Technologies BBS: 804-442-5865 Registration Fee: $195 FEATURES --------- DOS and OS/2 optimized versions. RIP support Multiline Multilanguage =============================================================== [4.2.03] - LORA v2.33-1 FEATURES --------- - Shareware DOS and OS/2 optimized evrsions - Supporting up to fuor different message bases ta the same time, Fido-Base (*.MSG), the QuickBBS(also known as Hudson message base), the PIP-Base and the new Squish-Mail made by Scott J. Dudley. - Supporting up to 500 message/file areas. - Compatible built-in Front-End Fidonet Mailer, FTSC-0001, WaZOO and full EMSI capable. - Supporting multitaskers, leaving not used time to the active task, and local networks. - Integrated multiline chat. - Supporting up to twenty different languages, for a full international system. - Support for RemoteAccess 1.11, Maximus CBCS 2.00 and SuperBBS 1.16 compatible Embedded Commands. - Built-in TimeBank, FileBank, BBS List and UserVote doors. - Support for off-line mail readers compatible witht he QWK packet format. =============================================================== [4.2.04] - MAGNUM Gilmore Systems BBS: 805-379-3210 FAX: 805-379-1340 Registration Fee: $75 Features --------- - True OS/2 BBS. - 33-node(1 LAN, 32 dialup) capable. - A DEMO version (2-node: - 1 dialup + console) is also available, restricted to 128 users, 128 files, 128 messages, Magnum to Magnum remote mail is deactivated. - Supports IBM Artic and Digiboard cards. - 26 Message Conferences, Optional 'Extended MessageBase' module provides up to 6,656 - 26 File Xfer areas, Optional 'Extended FileBase' module provides up to 6,656 - Thread supporting message sysetm. - "MILC" commands(MAGNUM Interpreted Language Commands) - Off-line message format supported: Magnum's POWER, and QWK format. - Remote Job Entry (RJE) allows users to start jobs (programs) which run concurrently to their session which will continue to run after the user has logged off. - QWK mail format for off-line reading (and message entry/reply) is supported. - Games and other programs which run under OS/2 can all be run as a Child Process. A publicly available tihrd-party program (downloadable from MAGNMU BBS) will allow Magnum to run virtually any DOS-based door program. This capability reqiures both Magnum version 7.00 and OS/2 2.1. - Group Chat is available on all nodes. - Magnum BBS will run on a Local Area Network by purchasing additional copies of Magnum BBS for more DIAL-IN lines. - Optional CALLBACK available separately. =============================================================== [4.2.05] - Maximus Support BBS#(613)389-8315 FEATURES ---------- DOS and OS/2 optmiized versions. Free for non-commercial use. Multilingual Multinode Multinode chat MECCA macro language programming Support for the following doors: LASTUSER.BBS(Opus 1.03), DORINFO1.DEF (QuickBBS andR BBS), CHAIN.TXT (WWIV), ACLLINFO.BBS (WildCat!), and DOOR.SYS. =============================================================== [4.2.06] - Virtual BBS (VBBS) Virtual Technologies BBS#(616)399-4818 FAX:616-399-8934 Registration Fee: $99 FEATURES --------- - DOS and OS/2 optimized versions. - Multinode support for up ot 1028 users on-line is available; the shareware version supports up to 4 users on-line - Supports up to 999 networks completely transparently at any one time, including VNETtype, FIDOtype, WWIVtype, and UUCP-type. - Built-in FIDO front end mailer (No need for Front Door) - DigiBoard support in channel configuration - Built-in QWK door for off-line readers - VSCRIPT script alnguage programming - Multi-user teleconferencing - User-defined macros - Full CD-ROM or WORM capable databases - Split-screen chat function available - Supports optional use fo FOSSIL driver - Support for the following doors: DORINFO1.DEF( QuickBBS an dRBBS), CHAIN.TXT (WWIV), DOOR.SYS. =============================================================== [4.2.07] - AdeptXBBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * INTRODUCTION * CONTACT INFO * DOWNLOADING AdeptXBBS * AdeptXBBS features * ADD-ONS ------------------------------------ * INTRODUCTION ---------------- (Info current as of 01/20/95) AdeptSoft of Boca Raton, FL., announces a public wide beta of their AdeptXBBS 32-bit BBS Software. AdeptXBBS is an OS/2, 32-bit, multi-threaded, multi-user, Presentation Manager BBS. AdeptXBBS incorporates the best that is OS/2: speed, reliability, power, and flexibility combined with a user interface is totally customizable; every prompt and menu can be changed, edited and configured. AdeptXBBS gives robust support for DOS and OS/2 doors, built-in QWK and Bluewave offline mail support; built-in FILE_ID.DIZ and CD-Rom support AdeptXBBS also supports any valid OS/2 serial device, named pipes and network connections. Also available as add-ons are: a REXX programming subsystem and an INTERNET subsystem. AdeptXBBS's REXX programming subsystem gives total access and complete control over all aspects of the BBS software, including all memory variables and all internal functions. AdeptXBBS's INTERNET subsystem features seamless e-mail (POP/SMTP), newsgroups, FTP, TELNET, Finger and LISTSERV capabilities. * CONTACT INFO --------------- AdeptSoft can be reached via e-mail at adeptsft@gate.net. * DOWNLOADING AdeptXBBS ------------------------- AdeptXBBS can be FTP'd from the following Internet sites: gate.net - /pub/users/adeptsft - adept_90.zip hobbes.nmsu.edu - /os2/incoming - adept_90.zip AdeptXBBS is available from the following Fidonet BBS's: The Abandoned Land I - 1:213/760.0@Fidonet - (702)359-1138 The Abandoned Land Ii - 1:213/761.0@Fidonet - (702)359-0629 Erasmus - 1:142/113.0@Fidonet - (203)666-5113 The DogStar BBS - 1:222/10.0@Fidonet - (705)946-6209 The DogStar BBS - 1:222/11.0@Fidonet - (705)942-8370 OS/2 Shareware BBS - 1:109/347.0@Fidonet - (703)385-6268 VFC AdeptXBBS requires the OS/2 HPFS File System. * AdeptXBBS features ---------------------- AdeptXBBS has support for: o DOS and OS/2 Doors, using the DOOR.SYS, and Session Info drop files o The ability to run redirected OS/2 programs o Completely custom menu system o Completely custom prompts system o Multi-Lingual support o TTY, ANSI, AVATAR, ANSI-TE2 graphics, auto ANSI, and ANSI-TE2 detection o Multi-node, multi-user chat o Internet Telnet Support o Named Pipe Support AdeptXBBS file system supports: o Multi CD-Rom changers o FILE_ID.DIZ o File Tagging o Virus Checking o Archive Conversion o Archive Viewing/Extraction o Files.BBS/00index.txt importing o Password protected files, and file areas o Age limited files, and file areas o Extensive file area and individual file security o Built in support for the Xmodem, Ymodem, Ymodem-G, Sealink, Zmodem, and ZedZap protocols AdeptXBBS message base system has support for: o File Attaches o Password Protection o Extensive security features o Context sensitive searches o Message tagging o .QWK, Bluewave, Fidonet Point, and Text exporting o Last Read Pointer Manipulation o Unlimited Message Areas, Message Per Area, and Message Size. (The current file system (FAT, and HPFS) will break before the BBS does) o Full Screen, and Text Message Editors o Full Reply Linking/Threading o On the fly compression of messages. AdeptXBBS mailer has support for: o FTS-001 through FTS-009 Fidonet standards o Around 20 additional FSC proposals o File Attaches, File Requests o WAZOO, EMSI, and DietIFNA mail sessions o Complete events handling, with external program support o Fidonet v7 Nodelist support o Auto Execution of a fax program for FAX connects o Completely and seamlessly integrated into the software o Remote mailer function requests * ADD-ONS ---------- REXX programming subsystem and an INTERNET subsystem. AdeptXBBS's REXX programming subsystem gives total access and complete control over all aspects of the BBS software, including all memory variables and all internal functions. AdeptXBBS's INTERNET subsystem features seamless e-mail (POP/SMTP), newsgroups, FTP, TELNET, Finger and LISTSERV capabilities. AdeptXBBS's Internet sub-system requires a OS/2 TCP/IP stack or OS/2 Warp. ADDITIONAL third-party Internet products currently under development: OS2CHAT is a third- party product in development for AdeptXBBS. IRCII is a third-party product that will have an AdeptXBBS specific version. UUCP is a third-party product written to seamlessly integrate into AdeptXBBS. Beta versions of these products will be available to registered users. =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 4.3 - OS/2 COMMERCIAL BBS SOFTWARE =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [4.3.01] - OraComm Oracomm Support BBS, (612)894-5879 Sales and Support for Oracomm Multiline BBS Software Surf Computer Services, Minneapolis, MN ------------------------------------------------------------------ [4.3.02] - Bulletron-OS/2 From: buletron@jazzmin.vnet.net (Bulletron-OS/2) Newsgroups: alt.bbs.internet Subject: B U L L E T R O N OS/2 BBS Software Date: 8 Oct 1996 13:03:59 GMT Bulletron-OS/2 ============== http://www.bulletron.com Visit us today and download the Demo. Bulletron is the simplest and most powerful OS/2 BBS in the world. Expandable and flexible enough to meet the needs of the largest corporation, yet simple enough to be mastered by non-technical people in less than an hour. Key Features Include: - Operate any number of lines within a *single* OS/2 session. You don't need to open a session per phone line. - No limit to the number os user accounts. - No limit to the number of personal and public messages. - Can service 2,000 concurrent users with one PC; 446,000 concurrent users per installation using LAN technology. - Up to 32,000 sub-boards can be defined. - Over 32,000 access levels and unlimited special interest groups can be defined for controlling access to sensitive information. - Extremely rapid access to any information in the system is provided through a balanced binary tree filing systems. - Inter-office e-mail and news can be transmitted over exisiting LAN wiring or Internet using TCP/IP and named pipes protocols. - Simple, single layer menus display all new message and file since last logon in all message areas. - Conferencing message areas allow people to add comments on news messages for group discussion. - Users can automatically generate Carbon Copies to groups of users. - Order entry facility processes VISA, American Express, Master Card and Discover Order forms with Validity checking. - FAXback feature allows users to have graphic documents sent to any FAX machine or FAX modem. - DOOR interfaces are provided, for executing other programs remotely or accessing mainframe databases. - Systems in different parts of the country can be connected using propietary Bulletnet(TM) technology so that mail and news bulletins posted in one city automatically appear at all location overnight. - Systems in different parts of the country can have their Chat areas connected together. - Matchmaker database can attach questionnaires to user accounts and messages. Questionnaires can be attached to user accounts to implement a technical support human resource database. - All menus, help messages, and prompts are changeable by the system operator for complete customization or for foreign language systems. - An operator at the local console can monitor up to ten sessions simultaneously to provide help for new users. - Remote new account setup can be disable and accounts can be preloaded from an external file such as registration numbers. - Onsite setup, training and custom programming available. The demo copy comes with all the features and the complete manual. Remember, you need to have OS/2 installed in order to try Bulletron. http://www.bulletron.com Online Technologies -------------------- Email: buletron@vnet.net Voice: (516) 689-2457 Fax : (516) 689-0167 Contact: Andy Tornquist ************************************************************** Chapter 5 - PC HARDWARE ************************************************************** =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 5.1 - PC HARDWARE =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [5.1.01] - What basic hardware do I need to start a BBS? In two short words a computer and modem. To get into more details, once you decide what BBS/server software you'll be using - the software package should list the minimun requirements to run their software. OTHER RELATED TOPICS: [10.1.02a] - BSD/OS Hardware Hints 14.6 - CARRIER DETECTED =============================================================== [5.1.02] - What hardware is needed to add more phone lines? UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 5.2 - NETWORKING YOUR PC BBS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [5.2.01] - INTRODUCTION This section (Networking you PC BBS) is designed to give the basics on how to make a networked BBS. There are a lot of FAQ's out there that can be more helpful than what can be written here, especially with the networking and using individual BBS software, but this will give you a place to work from. =============================================================== [5.2.02] - WHAT IS A NETWORK? A networked BBS is one that has multiple computers 'hardwired' through some non-phone connection to each other, and they can send information to each other. If this is in a corporate environment, there might be just one computer with modems, with not only people calling in, but calling out as well, for telecommuting and the like. For most private use BBS's out there, however, all the machines on the network have modems on them taking calls. We'll look mainly at that aspect. =============================================================== [5.2.03] - WHAT DO I NEED FOR A NETWORK? Assuming that your BBS software can handle multiple computers with multiple modems, all you need to make a network is an Network Interface Card (NIC), the wires going to each computer, the 'topology' of the network, and a Network Operating System (NOS). =============================================================== [5.2.04] - THE TOPOLOGY This is a fancy term for how the wiring will be laid. This is mainly dependent on the wiring used. There's two main types: The Bus and the Star. =============================================================== [5.2.05] - HOP ON THE BUS The bus is a series connection of computers. One to the other to the other to the other, with resistors at the end of the cable to tell the network you've hit the edge. It's probably the cheapest way to get into networking. However, if you are worried about one node (a computer on the network) going down, this is a bad way to go. The wire breaks in any way, shape or form, and the whole net comes crashing down. =============================================================== [5.2.06] - HITCH YOUR DREAMS TO A STAR The other way to connect them is in a star configuration. All computers talking to one central hub. It's more expensive because you have to buy that hub. That costs from about $150 to easily over $1000. Unless this network will also support a few hundred other users, stick with the cheap, non-SNMP, non manageable hubs. =============================================================== [5.2.07] - THE NIC This is a card that will be installed into the computer and is dedicated to network transmission. There are a lot of them out there. You can easily pay from $30 to over $400. However, sometimes, you do get what you pay for. It is suggested to find a big company that will stand behind their product, both with driver updates and tech support when things don't work. You can do 3Com, Intel, Allied Telesis, SMC, Eagle, or others. =============================================================== [5.2.08] - THE NOS & NETWORK TYPE Now this one is a very good problem. A lot of people are looking into this, not just for a BBS setup but for a variety of other applications too. The following is a list and brief description of some of the more popular networking software. =============================================================== [5.2.09] - NOVELL NETWARE Netware, by Novell, has to be by far the most popular NOS. Alot of companies run Netware, and there's all sorts of addons and support for it. It's a good, reliable, robust operating system. There's version 3.x and 4.x, with 3.x being more for small to medium companies and 4.x for Wide Area Networks and large companies. You'll be looking (as of 1 July 1994) at Netware 3.12 for your setup. 3.11 is also acceptable. Now, there's one major drawback to Netware: It has to be installed on one dedicated server. Dedicated means you can't do anything else with that machine but run it as a server. Netware 3.12 will run on a 386. =============================================================== [5.2.10] - LANTASTIC Lantastic, by Artisoft, is a peer-to-peer NOS. What does that mean to you? No dedicated server machine. So you don't have all sorts of money tied up in a machine that does nothing but manage your network. Before Windows for WorkGroups came along, this was the ONLY reliable and cheap peer-to-peer setup. It still is extremely popular, for one very important reason: it runs in DOS. Windows for WorkGroups is great as long as you're in Windows. As of 1 July 1994, Lantastic 6.0 has just hit the streets, and the price is very reasonable. =============================================================== [5.2.11] - Windows for WorkGroups As mentioned in the Lantastic section, this is Windows only. =============================================================== [5.2.12 ] - The New Kid In Town: CoActive I'll quickly glance over CoActive, because there's one major problem with it: speed. The idea is simple enough: Give everyone an adapter to hang off the parallel port of your computer, run regular phone line between the machines, and run a peer to peer network with the greatest of ease. Each node takes about 10 mintues to set up, and that's pretty darn good. The price makes it even more attractive. However, it is not recommended if speed is a factor, it has an extremely slow transfer rate. It runs as a serial port, so the max it can do is 115K/second, where standard Ethernet pulls about 10 times that. If you have small files, or run a message-only board, you could get away with CoActive, but for anyone else it is not recommended. =============================================================== [5.2.13] - EtherWave This is another new one, very fresh on the market. It's from Farallon, and it's called Etherwave. Main claim to fame: You can 'daisy chain' machines on Ethernet. big problem: The ones near the end of the chain are very slow, and you still need a NOS to run this thing. =============================================================== [5.2.14] - Timbuktu Pro for Windows From: amy@farallon.com (Amy Roberts) Newsgroups: comp.newprod Subject: Timbuktu(r) Pro for Windows Date: 8 May 1995 20:37:26 -0400 Sender: zorch@ftp.UU.NET Approved: zorch@uunet.UU.NET Distribution: world Message-ID: NNTP-Posting-Host: ftp.uu.net Keywords: Farallon; Timbuktu Pro for Windows; LAN, WAN, Internet, network management, novell, pc, software, windows Timbuktu(r) Pro for Windows Access anything or anyone on your network, from anywhere. Farallon's Timbuktu Pro for Windows is networked remote control with integrated remote node software for workgroups, remote workers, and help desk administrators. Timbuktu Pro works over your LAN, WAN, the Internet, or over dial-up or ISDN lines to give you total LAN access. You can remotely control not only your own PC, but any PC on your network. Provide instant user support to anyone, wherever they are. Retrieve and transfer files. Read e-mail. Update client/server databases and workgroup applications like Lotus Notes from afar. For the business user, Timbuktu Pro for Windows lets you stay in touch from home or on the road. For the network manager and help desk administrator, Timbuktu Pro is ideal for troubleshooting a user's computer, updating software, and training--all from where you are. System Requirements * One license required per computer * Novell IPX v2.12 (or higher) and/or a Windows Sockets-compatible TCP/IP-based network such as: + Microsoft TCP/IP-32 + NetManage Chameleon v4.01 + Novell LAN Workplace v4.2 + Trumpet Winsock v2.0 + Network TeleSystems TCP Pro v1.0 + For an updated list call Farallon * 386 or higher with 4MB RAM (8MB highly recommended) * Approximately 3MB hard disk space required for installation * Windows 3.1 or Windows for Workgroups 3.11 * DOS 5.0 or higher * Optional: For remote dial-in, you will need a Shiva LanRover, Windows NT 3.5 Remote Access server, Windows 95 Dial-UP Server, or any other PPP-compliant remote access server. Timbuktu Pro for Windows version 1.0 is now shipping. The product is available in twin-pack, 10-pack, 30-pack and 100-pack configurations. US street prices range from $70 per user for a twin pack to $42 per user for a 100-pack. Farallon also offers volume purchase pricing. All of Farallon's products are available from resellers worldwide. For more information, URL: http://www.farallon.com Anonymous ftp: ftp.farallon.com/pub Customer Service: info@farallon.com 1-510-814-5000 =============================================================== [5.2.15] - How does all this hardware help me? Well, suddenly you can share your BBS files over your whole setup. In the Netware setup, you have one central location for all your files, for easy backup and maintenance options. In 3.12, you can hang a CDROM or two off the server, to give even more storage capability and value to your BBS. Suddenly, your nodes can be 'light' nodes, doing nothing but answering calls, with an 80 MB or so HD, and all the file storage is kept on the server. For the Peer-to-peer, each machine can have one special section for each file area, like games or utilities, and all the other people look to that area for the files. Still easy to maintain. Also, a network is a heck of a lot faster than standard serial ports, and easier to send big files from one machine to the other. =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 5.3 - CD-ROMS & YOUR PC BBS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [5.3.01] - How do I add a CD-rom to my BBS? UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [5.3.02] - Can I have more than one CD-Rom for my users to access? UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [5.3.03] - Do I need any special software to run a CD-rom(s)? UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [5.3.04] - Books & other resources when using a Cd-rom on your BBS From: FZDX57A@prodigy.com (Karen Thomas) Newsgroups: alt.bbs.allsysop Subject: PUT YOUR FILES ON CD-ROM!!! Date: 2 May 1995 04:08:39 GMT C U S T O M C D Description: -------------- Utilizing the latest in CD-ROM technology, CUSTOM CD will create an IBM compatible DOS or Windows CD-ROM according to your specifications, using your source material, on a high quality compact disc of your choice, in about a week.* It's that simple. CD-ROMs can hold up to 650 MB of data. + Each customized CD-ROM is carefully mastered, produced, and tested, to assure error-free duplications. Satisfaction is guaranteed! + Customized CD-ROMs are ideal for system back-ups and data storage. Source Material accepted: -------------------------- CD-ROM 5.25" floppy 3.5" floppy DC-2120 (QIC-80) Ordering Info: --------------- You specify HOW you would like the data to be "set-up" on the CD-ROM. You specify what directories and sub-directories you would like created, and were files should be placed. (The mastering technician will be happy to answer and questions or to help you do this.) We offer three brands of compact discs, Maxell, Sony, and TDK. These are ALL high-quality "gold" discs. Pricing information: -------------------- 540 MB disc $28 650 MB disc $35 additional $17 *turn-around time averages one 3-5 days plus shipping time on a single disc order. If you would like to receive more information and an order form, send your US mail address to: CUSTOM CDS@AOL.COM SASE to: CUSTOM CD 3870 Central Ave, #202 Ft. Myers, FL 33901-8241 ************************************************************** CHAPTER 6 - ADD-ONS AND UTILITIES FOR PC BBSES ************************************************************** =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6.1 - BBS ADD-ONS/UTILITIES =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [6.1.01] - What is RIPScrip? RIPscrip graphics are EGA quality graphics that are displayed over the modem. The BBS sends special codes which are interpreted by a special term program and draws the screen for the user. The results can be impressive. While there are other graphic protocols, such as NAPLPS and ROBO/FX, which are better than RIP (supporting VGA and better resolutions), RIP is the only one which can be made with simple ASCII sequences. This is good, since when you understand which codes do what (they are confusing), you can actually edit the screens in any text editor (although you won't see the picture, just the codes). There are a bunch of shareware programs which give you the power to draw your own RIP screens, using lines, circles, boxes, fonts, and other cool stuff. Several BBS programs also have special support for RIP, such as (but not limited to) Renegade, WildCat, and Synchronet. Other BBS authors are planning to RIP-enable their systems soon. =============================================================== [6.1.01A] - TeleGrafix Communications Date: Thu, 4 Jan 1996 16:07:02 -0800 (PST) From: TeleGrafix Information To: customer@telegrafix.com Subject: Introducing RIP-2 Multimedia Graphics for the Internet Sender: owner-customer@telegrafix.com Precedence: first-class Reply-To: information@telegrafix.com Following two years of development, TeleGrafix Communications is offering you FREE communications software to try RIP-2 (Remote Imaging Protocol-2). RIP-2 is a new technology that enables you to create TV-style multimedia presentations or electronic newspapers that fly through the Internet and ordinary phone lines at dazzling speeds using regular modems. We expect RIP-2 to quickly become an important Internet technical standard like HTML, Java or VRML. We invite you to sample RIP-2 multimedia on TeleGrafix's Vector Sector BBS at (714) 379-2133. To fully experience it, please download the "shareware" RIPterm v2.2 communications software from the BBS. RIPterm costs you nothing unless you choose to register it with TeleGrafix for upgrades and tech support. RIP-2 technical data and RIPterm v2.2 also are available for download at http://www.telegrafix.com on the World Wide Web. RIP-2 encodes graphics as hyper-compressed ASCII text files that are as little as one-tenth the size of other formats, and introduces new elements to online publishing such as multiple-column screen layouts. RIP-2 is fully compatible with the Internet and any wired or wireless communications networks that use 7-bit or 8-bit ASCII text. It's the only online multimedia technology usable via any communications link without special protocols such as TCP/IP, dedicated servers or other custom software. TeleGrafix is now accepting requests from software developers and online system operators who want copies of the RIP-2 Internet multimedia language specification when it is published in early 1996. The first generation of RIP technology, introduced in 1993, is the world's BBS graphics standard. It is used on thousands of BBS systems, and is supported by dozens of online software vendors including Delrina, Galacticomm, Hayes and Mustang. Inexpensive RIPaint-2 multimedia authoring and publishing software is available from TeleGrafix for US$99.95 through January 31, 1996. All purchases include 25 bonus copies of RIPterm communications software valued at $500. Web browser "plug-ins" are slated for release in early 1996. TeleGrafix will pay BBS sysops and Internet webmasters who place RIP-2 software on their online systems for public downloading. Details and applications are available on the Vector Sector BBS and Web site. TeleGrafix Communications Inc. 16458 Bolsa Chica Road, Suite 15 Huntington Beach, California 92649 Voice: (714) 379-2131 Fax: (714) 379-2132 BBS: (714) 379-2133 WEB: http://www.telegrafix.com Internet: information@telegrafix.com TeleGrafix Communications, Inc. Sales: (714) 379-2141 16458 Bolsa Chica, #15 Fax: (714) 379-2132 Huntington Beach, CA 92649 BBS: (714) 379-2133 WWW: http://www.telegrafix.com FTP: ftp.telegrafix.com =============================================================== [6.1.02] - What is a fossil driver? Fossil drivers were invented in the mid 80's, when not every modem and/or serial device was 100% compatible. Fossils made sure that your program could talk to your modem, regardless of how oddball the modem. It does this by intercepting signals from the program, and converting them into something the modem can understand. These days, fortunately, the problems are much less severe. Fossils are used mostly because a BBS program that supports them doesn't have to be constantly updated to handle new speeds or protocols, just the fossil. The word "fossil" is actually an acronym for "Fido-Opus-Seadog Standard Interface Layer". Where can I download a fossil driver? --------------------------------------- FTP: XMISSION.COM The following available to download, - Fossil driver BNU v1.70 - X00 fossil, version 1.50 - A program called Video Fossil v1.10, which is needed if you want to run Binkley Term with colors. =============================================================== [6.1.02A] - WinFossil From: woodruff@halcyon.com (Bryan A. Woodruff) Newsgroups: alt.bbs.allsysop Subject: WinFossil: 32-bit FOSSIL for Windows 95 Date: Sat, 30 Dec 1995 19:06:24 GMT Organization: Northwest Nexus Inc. Running your BBS under Windows 95? This driver/utility dramatically enhances performance of FOSSIL-aware MS-DOS applications running under Windows 95. Shareware. http://www.halcyon.com/woodruff/www ftp://ftp.halcyon.com/local/woodruff/WinFossil/wnfossil.zip ========= Bryan A.Woodruff Internet: woodruff@halcyon.com Woodruff Software Systems BBS: +1 206 888 2407 North Bend, WA FTP: ftp.halcyon.com/local/woodruff =============================================================== [6.1.03] - What do I need to offer fax services to my users? Several BBSes/server software offers built-in faxing or gives the ability to add on third party software to add a fax feature to your online service. Check with the software vendor first. RELATED TOPIC(S): [6.1.03a] - BGFAX 1.40 =============================================================== [6.1.03a] - BGFAX 1.40 TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * BRIEF SUMMARY OF MAJOR NEW FEATURES * FRONTEND MODE * REAR END MODE * SEND MODE * INITIALIZATION * CONTACTING THE AUTHOR OF BGFAX ---------------------------------------------- * BRIEF SUMMARY OF MAJOR NEW FEATURES ----------------------------------------- a. OS/2 executables now included (in addition to the DOS executables) b. EXAR based fax modem related bugs in BGFAX addressed c. VIEW now supports VESA SVGA display modes for viewing faxes d. VIEW now supports printing in PCL mode (LaserJet, DeskJet) e. CALLER ID info in /HOST mode is now saved to DOBBS.BAT files BGFAX allows SYSOPs to accept faxes on their BBS line. BGFAX can also send faxes. (While BGFAX was originally designed just for sysops, it can also be used by Mr. Joe User who hates TSR based fax programs.) BGFAX is a tool designed for use with any Class 2 compliant fax modem. The fax modem must also support fully functional ADAPTIVE ANSWERING. Common Class 2 fax modems include the Supra, Practical Peripherials (may require purchase of a newer ROM revision if you are using an older model), Zoom, etc. BGFAX also directly supports ZyXEL fax mode. (AT#B1+FCLASS=6). BGFAX will not function with Class 1 only fax modems. Common Class 1 only fax modems include all non-v.32 turbo USR fax modems, Digicom Scouts, the AT&T Dataport, and the SupraLC. BGFAX can be used in FOUR distinct modes. * FRONTEND MODE ---------------- BGFAX will answer the telephone line ITSELF, handle events, pass data calls to a front end compatible BBS, and take fax calls. * REAR END MODE ---------------- BGFAX will be called from another program when an incoming fax is detected. FidoNet sysops using front end mailers such as FrontDoor, Intermail, D'Bridge, Dutchie, etc. are required to use this mode. The mailer must support the ability to exit to BGFAX when a fax is coming. * SEND MODE ----------- BGFAX has the ability to send faxes to another fax machine. (At this time, the file to be sent must already be in converted fax format.) * INITIALIZATION ----------------- BGFAX will only initialize the modem, and then quit. This mode is provided for people who need to use BGFAX in rear end mode, but their Fido mailer (or BBS software) will not allow the long initialization strings required for fax usage. * CONTACTING THE AUTHOR OF BGFAX --------------------------------- B.J. Guillot 2611 Rushwood Circle Houston Texas 77067-1941 Voice 713-893-9320 Data/Fax 713-893-9124 INTERNET: st1r8@jetson.uh.edu Fido 1:106/400 Tranquility Base (BGFAX support BBS) is now on the Internet! You can TELNET/FTP/VMODEM to IP address 199.3.234.248 to logon. [BGFAX140.ARJ is located in "..\BGFAX" on the FTP:199.3.234.248] BGFAX140.ARJ is available at FTP.CSN.NET in the "/Computech" =============================================================== [6.1.04] - Front-End Mailers The FTP site XMISSION.COM carries the following Front-End mailing programs. - FrontDoor 2.02/NC - FrontDoor 2.12/Shareware - D'Bridge 1.54 =============================================================== [6.1.05] - Offering online magazines to your users Many sysops want to offer magaiznes for their users to read online. Xpresslink is just one of the several online magazines available for sysops to offer to their users. Subject: New Magazine From: xpressli@news.delphi.com (XPRESSLINK@DELPHI.COM) Date: 30 Sep 1994 22:07:56 -0000 Message-ID: <36i27s$k0d@news.delphi.com> Xpress LiNK We are pleased to announce the release of Xpress LiNK, a unique on-line magazine featuring dazzling graphics and an impressive GUI (Graphical User Interface). The magazine will be offered to SysOps at no-charge and supported by selected companies offering support forums for their products. Xpress LiNK focuses on the on-line community with an assortment of articles designed to appeal to its readers. For example the premier issue includes articles covering the Internet, Shareware reviews, BBS Software, Online services and many other topics. The magazine will be offered as a door, and currently supports PCBoard, Wildcat, Searchlight, spitfire, GAP, RBBS and any other BBS software that writes the CHAIN.TXT, DOOR.SYS DORINFOx,DEF, CALLINFO.BBS, PCBOARD.SYS, or the GENERIC.SYS drop file. Xpress Link also supports non-standard IRQs, fossil drivers, and digiboards. The magazine requires any communication program that supports the RIPscrip graphics protocol. Currently all the major Communication packages either have RIPScrip support or will incororate it shortly. A partial list of communications software currently offering RipScrip support follows: Qmodem Pro Telix(shareware) SoftTerm(sharware) WinRamp(shareware) RIPterm(freeware) Procomm and RESNOVA (a macintosh based terminal package) are in the process of being updated to include the RIPscrip standard. Xpress Link will autodetect the absence of a RIPScrip compatible terminal and will provide single-key downloading of the freeware version of RIPTerm. Xpress Link will premier with the November issue, which will be released October 20th. If interested, we will upload an issue a month starting October 20th. Respond by E-mail to start your free subscription. Double your money back if not fully satisfied ;) Mike Dispirito, Distribution Manager =============================================================== [6.1.06] - Adding Games to your online service There's a large population of computer users who use their modem to play interactive/real-time games online. Sysops who want to offer online games to their users have a huge list of games to pick from. I can't begin to count the amount of posts I've seen in the Alt.bbs newsgroups titled: "How do I add Doom to my BBS" or "What online games can I add to my BBS?." Suggestions to sysops: log on to other BBSes/online services, search their file libraries for online games. Several BBSes and FTP sites archive BBS utilites. Once you pick a game(s) - before installation, first make sure it meets the requirements to be compatible with the BBS software you're running. =============================================================== [6.1.07] - SHOPPING ONLINE UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6.2 - FILE CHECKING PROGRAMS =-=-=-=-=-=-==-==-=-==-==-=-= [6.2.01] - When users upload files, what utilities are avilable to check for viruses & duplicates? UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6.3 - QWK MAIL =-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [6.3.01] - What is QWK mail? UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [6.3.02] - The BBS software I chose did not include QWK mail capabilties, how do I add QWK mail to my BBS? UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== [6.3.03] - What QWK mail software is available? UNDER CONSTRUCTION =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6.4 - BBS DOORS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [6.4.01] - What is a BBS door? Loosely put, a door, as the name implies, is a gateway outside the BBS software. Doors can be anything, games, database applications, credit card registration systems, just about anything. Most doors are run by the BBS itself or by a batch file outside the BBS. The door program itself interfaces with the communications and the modem, and takes over from the BBS software after it unloads. ============================================================ [6.4.02] - What doors are available? Doors are so numerous that this question is hard to answer. If you have a purpose in mind, you can generally find a door to suit it. Listed below, misc resources where doors can be downloaded. ------------------------- From: dnskiesling@telis.org (David Kiesling) Subject: BBS Utilities http://www.calbbs.com/personal/p_00005/salty.htm Date: Sun, 24 Nov 1996 23:34:06 GMT --------------------------------------------------------- -----------SaltySoft BBS Utilities--------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------- http://www.calbbs.com/personal/p_00005/salty.htm Some for TriBBS, some compatible with many BBS types. The page is updated as new programs are released. MAILING LIST AVAILABLE! Sign up to get some email when new programs are online. I ACCEPT REQUESTS! Want some sort of BBS utility but can't find exactly what you're looking for? Let me know all the details and I'll do my best to make what you need. information: dnskiesling@telis.org =============================================================== [6.4.03] - How do I install a door? Say you just found the perfect game you want to add to your BBS, but you're unsure on how to configure it. This is a general set of steps to follow to configure most door programs out there: 1. Install the program. Some programs are compressed, needing uncompression programs such as PKUnzip, ARJ, etc. Others have their own installation software, which may or may not uncompress it. Others have a set of instructions in a file like READ.ME, READTHIS.1ST, README.NOW, etc. Make sure to follow the instructions as they are written, and try not to shortcut it unless you know what you are doing. 2. Doors usually have a configuration program or file containing various options. While most doors have options of their own, here are a few setup options and guidelines that are fairly common: a. DROP FILE NAME/TYPE: This file is the file that the door software gets most of its information from. From this file, the door can get the user name, speed, location, and many more items, some BBS dependant. In order for a door program to be supported, your BBS usually must support a similar drop file type. For instance, PCBoard, which supports it's own PCBOARD.SYS file and a generic file called DOOR.SYS, could only be used with door programs that can use one of these two files. Here are some sample BBS packages and their drop files: ------------------------------ BBS Drop File(s) ------------------------------ WWIV CHAIN.TXT PCBoard PCBOARD.SYS, DOOR.SYS RBBS DORINFO1.DEF RyBBS CURRUSER.BBS WildCat! CALLINFO.BBS There are some shareware programs that will translate door drop files into (probably) a format readable by your BBS. Check your local BBS's for such converters. After you know what drop file to use, configure the door to use it, as said in the docs. NOTE: Some drop files, depending on the BBS system, may also include the below configuration options, in which case you may not have to configure for them. b. COM PORT: The COM port the BBS is on. If you are running more than two lines, you may have trouble with this DOOR program unless it has controls over options b and c. This is because after going past two lines, you cannot assign standard COM port designations to each line. (See section on Multi-line door setups) c. IRQ - This is the Interrupt the communications port is on. If you are running one or two lines, you should select the default choice, or leave this option out, unless your serial board is oddly configured. For multi-line systems, you should choose the IRQ of the port it's on. (See section on Multi-line door setups) d. Base Address - This is the base address of the communications port. As with IRQ, unless running a multi-line system or an abnormal serial card, keep the defaults. If the door does not have defaults, the standard values for these are: - COM1, COM3: IRQ - 4 Base Address - 3f8 - COM2, COM4: IRQ - 3 Base Address - 2f8 e. Other modem/hardware information - Some doors will ask for various other information, such as whether to use hardware or software handshaking. Most of this should be set the same as the BBS is. If you are unsure, check the documentation. f. A note about VBRUN: Some doors that are written in basic need a utility called VBRUN in order to execute. This utility is BASIC's runtime module, and is usually not included in the door package. If, during testing, the door wants the location of a runtime module, this is what you need to look for. Most BBS's should have a copy, or know where to find one. After these are configured, various items about the door itself must be configured. For a game, it may be the number of turns per day, for a credit card system what types of cards are supported, etc. Configure these as you wish. 3. Test the door in local mode, if it is has such an option. Most doors have a command line switch, or some other way of runing the door in 'local' mode. Local mode allows you to use the door without a modem/serial line attached, and is usually good for testing. The purpose of testing ahead of time before adding it to the BBS is to make sure the the door itself is properly configured. Testing in local mode will pick up errors such as bad/missing filenames, improper configuration files, etc. 4. Install on the BBS itself - In all cases, check the documentation of the BBS software you have selected for proper configuration. Most BBS's do it one of two ways: (1) The door is run by the BBS itself. In this case, you need to configure the BBS software, which will usually have a set of configuration options relating to doors. When it asks you for the path to execute the door, input the path of the executable/batch file for the door. NOTE: Doors run on BBS's of this type may have problems with memory usage. For this reason, some BBS's have a special option to let you 'minimize' the memory usage. If you're experiencing memory problems, use this option. (2) The door is run outside the BBS in another batch file. In this case, an sample external batch is usually included with the BBS package. Most of these look similar to this: :cycle RunBBS ; Run the BBS program if errorlevel 50 goto DOOR_A if errorlevel 40 goto DOOR_B if errorlevel 30 goto DOOR_C if errorlevel 20 goto end ; test for each :DOOR_A tw2002 ; Run Trade Wars, a game goto cycle ; go back to the bbs :DOOR_B vote goto cycle ; vote and return :DOOR_C ccard goto cycle ; get a credit card, return :end ; end it off. In this manner, when the BBS exits, depending on the DOS errorlevel the batch file will execute a myriad of different programs. Some BBS's have preset errorlevels, and such BBS packages, like SpitFire, should have sample batch files with these presets. Others have configuration options to let you change the errorlevels, in which case you might have to create your own, personal batch file. The above should work for most BBS's of the batch file type. If you change this, remember that the 'if errorlevel' calls MUST be in descending order, because of the nature of the call. After the door itself is configured, you may have to add a menu entry or some other way of accessing it. Make sure, if sure BBS is up and running at the time, with non-sysop callers calling in, that the menu entry is set at sysop security level to prevent others from trying a potentially faulty door. 5. Test it online - This is a MUST. If you have another line, call into your BBS and test the door online, or have a friend do it if you don't have another line/modem to spare. If the door fails to operate, try tweaking the settings some, making sure that it has the same hardware/software setup as the BBS. If all goes well, you're ready to open it to the public. You can now change that sysop-only menu entry to a normal one. 6. Open it to the public - Now it's ready to be released into the wide world of BBS doors. After following these guidelines, you should be able to install and configure most door softwares. =============================================================== [6.4.04] - Notes of Multi-line systems 1. Multi-node systems, systems that use Windows, or DesqView, or OS/2, etc., should be aware that not all door programs were meant to be running at the same time. For instance, the old version of Trade Wars, a popular BBS game, could not have more than one node running it at one time. This is because of various restrictions that DOS, and the door program itself, put on file sharing. The door program will usually say in the documentation whether it supports Multi-node systems. If it does, follow the above configuration. If your BBS system does not share its configuration files, you must configure it for each node, or some nodes will be missing it. 2. Internal Multitaskers. These BBSs, such as The Major BBS, TBBS, Falken and more, do their multitasking internally, instead of with something like DesqView or Windows. Such BBS's may have an interface to use normal doors, but most require you to use only option modules meant for their BBS, since they didn't build it to multitask all kinds of programs. Use your manual to install such software, since it varies system to system. =============================================================== [6.4.05] - Notes on DOORWAY DOORWAY is a program that lets you run normal DOS programs that do not support comm routines, as doors. There is an inherent problem in this, though, because DOS programs are very finicky. Several DOS programs use direct screen writes, and, while DOORWAY supports these, can be very tricky. Graphics programs, obviously, are not supported. Another problem with common DOS programs is security. If the program offers anything like a shell to dos or a command running option, you probably don't want to offer it, unless you trust the people using it, or you found a way around. To install DOORWAY, use the above instructions, but when it comes to running the executable, run DOORWAY with its command line instead. If in need, most BBSs will carry a copy of DOORWAY, usually as DRWY____.ZIP or DOORWAY.ZIP. =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 6.5 - ANSI & THE PC BBS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= UNDER CONSTRUCTION ************************************************************** CHAPTER 7 - SYSOPING WITH MACINTOSH/APPLE ************************************************************** =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 7.1 - What hardware is needed to run a BBS on a Macintosh? =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= The Basics - Almost any Macintosh from a Macintosh Plus on can run a BBS, but the most powerful packages require a 68030 and higher to run effectively. Speed on BBS's can be increased by getting a faster drive, because much of what a BBS does is access the hard drive to gain information. =============================================================== [7.1.01] - A minimum machine Using text only (ANSI or VT100) packages, you can use almost any Mac with 1 meg of memory. Using the graphical BBS's can be used on a Mac Plus and up, but performance severely degrades. But the bright point is that being the Mac, most packages will run on any machine from a Plus up. =============================================================== [7.1.02] - Hard drives and accessing information The hard drive will be the most important factor in speed on you BBS. With a BBS you are accessing information contained on your hard drive. So relative speed is increased by increasing the speed of your hard drive. Thus the fast the hard drive used, the faster your BBS will be. The new Macintoshes the 630 serires uses slower IDE drives ( and cheaper to Apple) They will slow your BBS down and should not be used in operating a BBS. The relative speed of your CPU will have more of an effect on NovaLink Pro than it will on First Class, Hermes and TeleFinder. This is because NovaLink Pro caches into RAM much of its information, and is more dependent on its processor. As I hear of other BBS's performance I will update this section. =============================================================== [7.1.03] - Accelerating your Macintosh BBS A BBS relies heavily on disk drive access in order to access information on your hard drive so as much of your BBS as possible should be loaded into RAM in order to speed up access. RAM is much faster than any hard drive available. You can do this by adding a RAM Disk from your control panel ( as much RAM as is available from your configuration). Your Disk Cache should be set at a megabyte for optimum performance. FWB Hammer also has a SCSI accelerator that is supposed to increase disk access time dramatically. =============================================================== [7.1.04] - CD ROMS and your BBS Most of the BBS packages will allow you to easily add a CD ROM to your set-up. This easily allows for large amounts of shareware to be available for your users. With a sit-c resource ( a descriptor of the file contained in a "stuffed" or otherwise compressed file) you can have a brief explanation of every program on the CD explained to your callers. The Arizona Mac Users Group(AMUG) publishes a semi-yearly update called "BBS in a Box" that has the latest versions of the most important Mac Shareware (9,000 files). It is also organized for easy insertion into your BBS. (Call Wanzata Technology 1-800-735-7321 ) for ordering information. Educorp Publishes multiple shareware volumes also. (1-800-843-9497) Mega ROM and Giga ROM are also titles that may still be published. With the Apple Control Panel - PC Exchange - an IBM DOS or Windows CD can be mounted for your BBS. =============================================================== [7.1.05] - Networking Macs to create larger BBSes A Mac BBS can expand the number of simultaneous connections that it can handle bynetworking the BBS into multiple servers, each handling a part of the load. Instead of using modems to connect Mac BBSUs, you can have a BBS provide the same function as your modem users, but over the network. Many corporations use their Mac BBS as a mail server or a groupware coordinator. =============================================================== [7.1.06] - Can I use my BBS software on a PowerPC and will it perform better? As of the writing of this FAQ, only NovaLink Pro and TeleFinder runs in native Power PC code. Since most BBS speed is related to the hard drive, the Power PC will not by itself speed up your BBS. For CPU intensive applications like NovaLink Pro, it will make a significant difference. There are two severe known problems with the Power PC as a BBS server. The first is that no more than four NUBUS cards can be added to a Power PC. This is an operating system limitation. Quadra and below can address 16 NUBUS slots. Because of the way expansion boxes work, and that three slots are all the largest Power PC has at this time, this is a severe limitation to 14 lines per Mac physically possible. The other is that TCP runs in emulation not native mode, so TCP throughput is slowed considerably over a Quadra. System 7.5 will offer TCP built into the system. Apple will introduce a new way of dealing with communication with System 7.6 in January where the native Power PC TCP will be included in a new implementation of TCP. =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 7.2 - Setting up the phone lines with a Macintosh =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [7.2.01] - Serial ports on a Mac "I'd like to start my BBS with a few phone lines, how do I setup multiple phone lines on a Macintosh? " Each Mac comes equipped with two serial ports both of which can be used by most BBS packages. They will support transfer rates up to 38,400 baud ( the maximum rate that a Mac serial port can transfer information without buffering of the NUBUS Cards.) Since the Mac comes standard with a multi-tasking operating system, simultaneous connections are easy to set up with the Mac. =============================================================== [7.2.02] - Multiport cards for expanding the number of lines What hardware is needed?" To go beyond two phone lines, you will need to add a multiport serial card or a SCSI expansion box. The NUBUS cards are meant to be inserted in the expansion slots on your Macintosh. Hurdler Nubus cards from Creative Systems - Dual and Quad serial port cards for the Mac. Capable of up to 57,000 baud performance per port. 2 port $299, 4 port $379. Hustler Nubus cards from Creative Systems - a card designed for the new V. Fast modem. Capable of speeds up to 230,000 baud on one port, or 115,000 baud on two ports. Available in two port versions only. $329 QuadraLink - These cards can still be found, but the manufacturer is out of business. They did not have buffering necessary for multiple high speed connections, though they offered economical 4 serial port cards. Digiboard by Digitek offers an eight port card, but as of this writing the board has numerous software bugs and is not recommended by ANY of the Mac BBS manufactuers. The board also does not offer a carrier detect pin (for detecting when the callers modem hangs up) in its current mode, making it less attractive for sysops. =============================================================== [7.2.03] - SCSI interfaces for expansion The SCSI expansion box connects like a hard drive to your SCSI chain, but adds four additional serial ports to you system. Creative Systems - Hurdler standalone - SEQS - Adds four serial ports to any Mac with a SCSI interface in a standalone box. $695.00 Creative Systems 4701 Randolph Road, Suite #12 Rockville, MD 20852 USA (301) 984 - 0261 Fax (301) 770-1675 =============================================================== [7.2.04] - Other connection types for the Macintosh TCP - The standard interface to TCP/IP network hardware, MacTCP also makes it possible for more than one TCP/IP based application to run on a Macintosh at any one time. For example, you can simultaneously use a Telnet program, an FTP program, andshare a file system via NFS when you use MacTCP to provide the interface to your TCP/IP network. MacTCP is Apple's implementation of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) TCP/IP Protocols. MacTCP's software interface is a Control Panel, which means that it loads when your Macintosh boots. It will be built into version 7.5 of the Macintosh system. UUCP - UNIX to UNIX protocol. Used for receiving batch news and mail from the Internet X.25 An economical network used to give local presence to a national networks. ( Compuserve for example uses an X.25 network to give local access all across the US) ISDN A new way of sharing voice and high speed data transmissions on the same line. Very popular in Europe and expanding use in the US. SLIP - SLIP stands for Serial Line Internet Protocol. SLIP is a "non-standard" for framing IP packets and shipping them over a serial line (e.g. a cable, or a pair of modems), thus allowing a home machine to dial up and become part of the Internet. Effectively, SLIP turns a serial port into a logical ethernet port. Many workstations and terminal servers can support SLIP. On the Macintosh side, several vendors offer SLIP modules forMacTCP. Macintosh software which communicates with the outside world via MacTCP will continue to work over SLIP,albeit somewhat more slowly due to the relatively low bandwidth of modem connections. CSLIP - CSLIP stands for Compressed SLIP. CSLIP reduces the size of the headers in IP packets by eliminating a certain amount of redundancy. This improves interactive performance. PPP - PPP stands for Point-to-Point Protocol. PPP can support both synchronous and asynchronous connections and protocols that are not IP-based (such as AppleTalk). It provides specifications for error correction, feature negotiation, escaping control characters, etc. PPP is becoming more and more popular, especially as MacPPP, a MacTCP extension available via anonymous FTP from merit.edu in pub/ppp, has matured into a stable and viable alternative to the various available MacTCP SLIP LAPs. Although SLIP continues to be more prevalent than PPP, PPP is likely to become more popular in the future. =============================================================== [7.2.05] - Setting up a high speed Macintosh Network on the Internet. Required items for this implementation: 1. MacTCP (or equivalent) 2. Network Cabling and Software (10 Base T Etherwave recommended) 3. Internet connection (T-1 , though 57K or 14.4 Slip will do.) 4. Router, CSU, and DSU for direct connection (can be rented). 5. Modem (14.4 or better preferred) for dial up slip connection. 6. Server software and/or client software for Internet access. There are two limitations on any use of Internet. One set from your system, and another set from any other system you work with. The closer any system is to the Internet's main backbone(s), the faster access to it is, and the smaller the chance of non-delivery of any packet. Other factors are, Telnetable or not, FTPable or not, Gopher server or not, WAIS or not, and many more. You must keep in mind what kind of people will be connecting to the Internet through you, and what kind of people will be connecting to you through the Internet. Is your information valuable, or is your information something people can have for free? Do you feel safe without good security, or do you need something in the lines of a firewall? All these things can limit your services. Do not think that all limitations are bad though, many are required tokeep your service viable. Once you have decided what you would like your server to do, it is time to pick the software. There are many different applications that provide many different services. Some of the things that are very important in all software are: 1) The ability to directly connect to Internet (no add ons). 2) The ability to handle long messages.( above 32k) There may not be too many, but its the important one that is that will get you every time. A strong commitment from the developers to continue to develop the software along multi-purpose lines for Internet use. =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 7.3 - MODEMS & THE MACINTOSH BBS =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [7.3.01] - Modems Because of the Macintosh's closed box design for most Mac's the most common modem is an external modem. See the section titled: "Carrier Dedected" for a list of modem companies. =============================================================== [7.3.02] - Carrier detect and the Macintosh Carrier detect allows your program to determine when a caller is still connected to your server. If the connection is un-expectantly broken, your software should immediately reset the modem and wait for the next call. Early Macs, 128, 512k, Mac Plus, LC, LCII, MacIIvx, some Performas, , Powerbook 100, have no carrier detect pin in their serial ports. Newer Macs all have this implemented. Your BBS should allays use Carrier Detect cables in order to make sure that this important function works. =============================================================== [7.3.03] - Hardware handshaking and the Macintosh Hardware handshaking is a system whereby the Macintosh and modem ensure that no data is lost. If a Macintoshes internal buffer of data becomes full it asserts a DTR line telling the modem to stop transmitting. Your cables must support hardware handshaking as well as Carrier detect. Your standard modem cables may not have carrier detect and hardware handshaking capabilities built in. Most cables shipped with modems do NOT have these capabilities, as do most mail order cables. If you can buy your cable from your BBS software supplier, you should. =============================================================== [7.3.04] - High speed modems With the advent of high speed modem capable of 230,400 baud with compression, can my Mac handle them? Sure, you should make sure that your software has a modem driverfor your particular 28k modem. Also make sure you are using a high speed serial Nubus card couple with a high speed hardware handshaking and carrier detect cable. Or you can use an Ethernet connection to the Internet. The Macintosh will handle any v.fast or v.34 modem with no problem, but realize that the standard is not complete (as of 8/94) and that the modem purchased with a v.fast chip will have to be upgraded to a v.34 standard later - though some modem manufacturers are offering FREE upgrades. With the cost being within $50 per modem of a 14.4 all sysops should consider buying only 28k modems because of the speed difference it will offer callers, and the time that it will free up your BBS for more callers by allowing faster downloads. =============================================================== [7.3.05] - Special pricing on modems for SYSOPS. Read any of the Magazines mentioned at the end of this FAQ and they will have charts showing the latest special ( cheaper?) pricing for Sysops from modem manufacturers. I have found that your local giant electronic discounter may have better prices than the manufacturer offers today. =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 7.4 - Commercial BBS software for the Macintosh =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [7.4.01] - NovaLink Pro NovaLink offers a complete line of bulletin board services. Clients access electronic mail, message forums, file libraries including CD-ROM, databases, real-time conferences and chats as well as access public networks including the Internet and FidoNet, perform high speed text searches, write scripts, gateway to popular e-mail packages and create custom applications. NovaLink clients can logon through serial, AppleTalk, Communications Toolbox, X.25 and TCP/IP connections. NovaLink features include InfoLink, Distributed Processing, NovaScript, Internet Access, AppleSearch support, Gateways, Interface Flexibility, External Applications and Automatic Menu Generation. InfoLink is a wide area networking solution that links multiple NLP servers together, to exchange messages and keep files and information synchronized and up-to-date that is a standard capability built into every NovaLink system. NovaLink Professional can distribute server loads among multiple Mac computers for greater capacity. A single Mac Quadra can handle 40-60 simultaneous users (depending on connection type). Adding additional CPU's gives NLP virtually unlimited expandability. NovaLink Professional provides its own scripting language, NovaScript. NovaScript, English-like in syntax, can fine-tune the performance and capabilities of your server. External applications can be developed by any C programmer and several external programs can be obtained ( Freeware or shareware) to enhance NLP. NovaLink enables users to access an AppleSearch server on-line, which allows users to conduct powerful high speed text searches of unstructured documents with English-like queries. NovaLink's MacTCP support means that anyone using the Internet can Telnet into an NLP server or users can Telnet out to other host systems on the Internet. NovaLink Professional 3.1 supports Internet standards for e-mail (SMTP) and Usenet News Groups (NNTP). NovaLink also supports UUCP through an external gateway. Finally, NovaLink provides direct TCP support without using the Macintosh Communications Toolbox. NovaLink supports NovaTerm* Graphics for Mac users and RIPscrip* for Windows and DOS users. . NLP supports more than one configuration file, so that Sysops can offer alternate user interfaces to their clients. For conventional terminal programs, NovaLink also supports ANSI, VT100 and TTY, so that anyone can logon to your server regardless of platform type. NovaLink Professional automatically generates a graphical and command line interface for each type of interface supported. ResNova Software, Inc. 5011 Argosy Drive, Suite #13 Huntington Beach, CA 92649 Sales: (714)379-9000 Info Server: (BBS)- (714)379-9004 Internet: Sales@ResNova.com Fax: (714)379-9014 NovaLink Professional 3.1 Base Configuration-$119.00 The Base Configuration includes one modem connection, 10 NovaTerm modem clients, unlimited VT100 clients, unlimited DOS graphical clients , acarrier detect modem cable and a free One-Year subscription to NovaCentral for on-line technical support and update information. Additional Modem and Network Connections-$100.00 Ea. NovaTerm Modem Clients NovaTerm modem clients, depicted below, are purchased in groups. Additional Clients-Price 50-$60.00 100-$120.00 200-$200.00 500-$299.00 1,000-$499.00 Call for pricing above 1,000 Internet Kit (NNTP & SMTP only)-$500.00 UUCP Gateway-$500.00 TCP/IP Professional Option-$1,200.00 This package includes four simultaneous TCP connections, 20 NovaTerm network clients and Unlimited VT100 support. The TCP/IP option allows NovaLink to connect to a TCP LAN and the Internet. With this option, NovaLink can send and receive Internet mail (SMTP) and Network News groups (NNTP) and provide full Telnet access. This package requires Mac TCP. FidoNet Point Mailer $75 QuickMail Gateway-$500.00 NovaLink AppleSearch Gateway-$1,500.00 AppleSearch Server-$1,799.00 High speed text search engine licensed by Apple NovaLink AppleSearch Server & Gateway-$3,000.00 NovaLink AppleTalk Access-$150.00 NovaLink AppleTalk Option-$600.00 NovaLink X.25 Option-$1,750.00 NovaTerm Network Clients NovaTerm network clients, depicted below, are purchased in groups (network users include AppleTalk, X.25 and TCP/IP). Additional Clients-Price 25-$500.00 50-$900.00 100-$1,600.00 200-$2,800.00 500-$5,000.00 Above 500-Call for larger site licensing information =============================================================== [7.4.02] - FirstClass TOPICS IN THIS SECTION * Introduction * Contact Info * FirstClass Price List * FirstClass Servers * Remote User Licensing * FirstClass Services * Gateways * Serial Upgrades * Training * Additional Documentation * Direct orders to ------------------------------------------------------- * Introduction ----------------- FirstClass is a multi-platform communications system that integratesfull fledged e-mail with workgroup communication services and offers the same ease of use, functionality and high performance over network or modem. One FirstClass server combines the following application functionality in one integrated system: Complete office electronic mail Network conferencing for electronic discussions Remote-access or network bulletin board system (BBS) Conferencing Multi-Platform & Language Support Of course one of the primary reasons to use FirstClass as an on-line system lies in the strength of its multitasking graphical interface. Modem access is efficient and permits background transfer of files (in both directions simultaneously) even while reading mail, chatting or using other system features. FirstClass as a BBS , has the ability to access and search CD-ROMS or other volumes on-line is very useful, as is the ability to send mail to any user or conference the BBS user has permission to. Administrators may accurately track what users have uploaded or downloaded what through statistics and billing features. They can create custom icons and background pictures. Accommodate users of any computer type through a command-line interface to FirstClass similar to the shell if they call with a VT100 compatible terminal. * Contact Info ---------------- SoftArc Inc. 100 Allstate Parkway Markham, Ontario CANADA L3R 6H3. SoftArc Inc. 1902 Ridge Road, #325, West Seneca, New York, USA, 14224 Tel: 416-299-4723 Fax: 416- 754-1856 FirstClass: 416-609-2250 Internet: sales@softarc.com WWW: http://www.softarc.com * FirstClass Price List ------------------------ FirstClass is a client/server communication system. To run FirstClass, purchase at least one FirstClass Server licensed for the number of clients that will retain an account on your server, and the services they will require. FirstClass Servers of any platform may be purchased and licensed separately to form distributed communication networks. The FirstClass Client software is freely distributable, and is available in a number of languages. FirstClass Servers configured with user licenses and optional services address internal and external communications needs in an organization. 1. Select a FirstClass server. 2. Choose licenses for the numbers and types of users required. Two classes of user licenses are available. Regular users may access the server via LAN, WAN, modem or Internet connections. Remote users may only access the server over modem or Internet connections. Sites may mix both regular and remote users on a given server. 3. Select optional services and gateways to enable features beyond those included in the base server. * FirstClass Servers ---------------------- S50-FCSRVW FirstClass Server for Windows $495.00 Includes FirstClass Server for Windows, FirstClass Client for Windows and FirstClass Designer for Windows & documentation. Also includes five client reference cards. Server requires Windows NT (Workstation or Server). Client runs on Windows 3.1 or later. User licensing Included: 5 Regular Users (plus administrator) Service Included: Windows Services for FirstClass Network Protocol Included: IPX Remote Sessions Included: 2 S10-FCSRVM FirstClass Server for Mac OS $495.00 Includes FirstClass Server for Mac OS, FirstClass Client for Mac OS and Power Macintosh, and FirstClass Designer for Mac OS plus documentation. Also includes five client reference cards and a hardware handshaking modem cable. Server and client will run on any Macintosh Plus or better. User licensing Included: 5 Regular Users (plus administrator) Service Included: Mac OS Services for FirstClass Network Protocol Included: AppleTalk Remote Sessions Included: 2 S60-FCSRWE FirstClass Enterprise Server for Windows $1,995.00 Standard FirstClass Server for Windows including all optional FirstClass Services. Server requires Windows NT (Workstation or Server). Client runs on Windows 3.1 or later. User licensing Included: 5 Regular Users (plus administrator) Services Included: Windows Services for FirstClass Mac OS Services for FirstClass TCP/IP Services for FirstClass Text Services for FirstClass Network Protocols Included: IPX, AppleTalk, TCP/IP Remote Sessions Included: 2 S70-FCSRME FirstClass Enterprise Server for Mac OS $1,995.00 Standard FirstClass Server for Mac OS including all optional FirstClass Services. Server and client will run on any Macintosh Plus or better. User licensing Included: 5 Regular Users (plus administrator) Services Included: Mac OS Services for FirstClass Windows Services for FirstClass TCP/IP Services for FirstClass Text Services for FirstClass Network Protocols Included: IPX, AppleTalk, TCP/IP Remote Sessions Included: 2 Regular User Licensing Regular users may connect to a FirstClass server by network or remote connections. For each server, purchase one or more of the following licenses. U20-FC5R 5 Regular User License $395.00 U21-FC10R 10 Regular User License $695.00 U22-FC25R 25 Regular User License $1,495.00 U23-FC50R 50 Regular User License $2,495.00 U24-FC100R 100 Regular User License $4,295.00 U25-FC250R 250 Regular User License $9,595.00 U26-FC500R 500 Regular User License $17,995.00 U27-FC1000R 1000 Regular User License $34,995.00 * Remote User Licensing ------------------------ Remote users licenses are suitable for customers, suppliers, and others who may only connect to FirstClass over remote connections. For each server, purchase one or more of the following licenses. U35-FC50T 50 Remote User License $395.00 U30-FC100T 100 Remote User License $695.00 U31-FC250T 250 Remote User License $1,495.00 U33-FC500T 500 Remote User License $2,495.00 U34-FC1000T 1000 Remote User License $4,295.00 * FirstClass Services ----------------------- These upgrades determine the types of clients that can connect to a server and the protocols they can use for the connection, beyond those supported by the basic server package. U47-FCMS Mac OS Services for FirstClass $495.00 Server license to enable Mac OS user connections over AppleTalk or modems using FirstClass Client for Mac OS. U49-FCWS Windows Services for FirstClass $495.00 Server license to enable Windows user connections over IPX or modem connections using FirstClass Clients for Windows and/or Simple MAPI (upon availability). U14-FCTCP TCP/IP Services for FirstClass $995.00 Server license to enable FirstClass Client/Server and Server/Server connections over TCP/IP. Enables connections between FirstClass Clients and servers of all platforms. U46-TXTS Text Services for FirstClass $495.00 Server license to enable remote VT100 logins. Also enables IPX or modem connections from FirstClass Client for DOS (upon client availability). * Gateways ------------ Gateways and extensions expand the feature set and connectivity of FirstClass and work with any FirstClass Server. Products listed here are SoftArc products. See SoftArcs FirstClass Solutions Guide for a listing of third party gateway and extension products. G13-WCCM FirstClass Gateway for cc:Mail $495.00 Gateway between FirstClass and Lotus cc:Mail. Translates mail and attachments between FirstClass and cc:Mail users. G17-WMSM FirstClass Gateway for Microsoft Mail $495.00 Gateway between FirstClass and Microsoft Mail. Translates mail and attachments between FirstClass and MS Mail users. G11-MUUCP FirstClass UUCP Internet Gateway for Mac OS $495.00 Gateway between FirstClass and the Internet. Supports mail and newsgroups. Requires UUCP account with a service provider and dedicated Mac OS CPU. G12-FCFAX FirstClass Fax Gateway for Mac OS $495.00 Send fax messages from FirstClass with graphics and text attachments. Requires dedicated Macintosh CPU. * Serial Upgrades -------------------- H12-HD8P DigiBoard PC/8e for Windows $695.00 Internal card physically allows connection of up to eight modems to a FirstClass server for Windows. Requires Four Remote Session Upgrade licenses, sold separately. H13-HD16 DigiBoard PC/16em for Windows $1,495.00 Internal card and external concentrator physically allow connection of up to 16 modems to a FirstClass Server for Windows. Can be expanded with additional concentrators up to 64 ports per card. Requires Four Remote Session Upgrade licenses, sold separately. H11-HHQS Creative Solutions Hurdler for Mac OS $295.00 Internal NuBus card physically allows connection of four modems to a FirstClass Server for Mac OS. Includes four hardware handshaking modem cables (needed for high speed modem connections). Requires Four Remote Session Upgrade license, sold separately. H14-HD8M DigiBoard Nu/8i for Mac OS $895.00 Internal NuBus card physically allows connection of eight modems to a FirstClass Server for Mac OS. Includes eight hardware handshaking modem cables (required for high speed modem connections). Requires Four Remote Session Upgrade licenses, sold separately. H10-FCHHCBL Hardware Handshaking Modem Cable for Mac OS $25.00 Allows reliable high speed modem use with Mac OS CPU. One included with FirstClass Server for Mac OS. Recommended for each server modem on a Mac OS computer. U15-FCFP Four Remote Session Upgrade $395.00 Increases number of remote access sessions available to server. Each session accommodates a modem or a single simultaneous remote TCP/IP user. License installs on any FirstClass Server. * Training ----------- SoftArc offers training for FirstClass administrators and users. Contact SoftArcs training department at 905-415-7000 for full details. Travel and accommodation not included. T10-FCADT Basic FirstClass Administrator Training $995.00 Two day hands-on course offered at SoftArcÕs training facility in Canada. Includes all training materials and extra administration documentation. T11-FCADV Advanced FirstClass Administrator Training Pricing TBA This hands-on course is aimed at administrators of mature systems. Topics include advanced connectivity, customization and troubleshooting in a multiplatform environment. T12-FCUST Basic FirstClass User Training $90.00 Two hour hands-on course for those new to FirstClass client. Offered in conjunction with administrator training. Priced per user. T13-FCDES FirstClass Designer Training $235.00 Introduction to system customization using FirstClass Designer. Topics include background pictures, sounds and custom icons. * Additional Documentation ------------------------------- FirstClass Servers ship with single copies of both administrator and user documentation matching the platform of the server package. Additional manuals may be ordered. - M13-FCUSRW Using FirstClass for Windows $15.00 - M11-FCUSRM Using FirstClass for Mac OS $15.00 - M14-FCREFW FirstClass Client for Windows User Reference Card (x5) $10.00 - M12-FCREFC FirstClass Client for Mac OS User Reference Card (x5) $10.00 - M50-FCADMIW FirstClass Administrator Manual Set (Windows Server) $50.00 - M10-FCADMIN FirstClass Administrator Manual Set (Mac OS Server) $50.00 Educational pricing available upon request. This price list effective May 20th, 1996 and is guaranteed valid for North American customers only. All prices in U.S. funds. This price list supersedes all previous price lists and is subject to change at any time without notice. FirstClass, the FirstClass logo and SoftArc arch are registered trademarks of SoftArc Inc. All rights reserved. Other product names are the property of their respective copyright holders. Minimum shipping & handling charges $25 to USA & Canada, $60 to Europe (EU) and $80 elsewhere. Incremental shipping charges for larger orders on request. * Direct orders to ------------------- SoftArc Inc. 100 Allstate Parkway Markham, Ontario CANADA L3R 6H3. Telephone Orders: 1-800-SOFTARC (763-8272) or 905-415-7000 Faxed Orders: 1-905-415-7151 E-mail: orders@softarc.com SoftArc does not sell direct to customers in countries where it has official representation. Contact SoftArc for distributor information worldwide. ______________________________________________________ SoftArc Inc. Global Area Communications 100 Allstate Parkway, Markham, Ontario, CANADA, L3R 6H3 1902 Ridge Road, #325, West Seneca, New York, USA, 14224 Tel: 905-415-7000, Fax: 905-415-7151, FirstClass: 905-415-7070, Sales: 1-800-SOFTARC Internet: info@softarc.com, http://www.softarc.com SoftArc International Ltd., Block 1, Unit D, Shannon Business Park, Shannon, Co. Clare, Ireland Tel: +353-61-472-877, Fax: +353-61-472-388 NOTE: For info on the FirstClass Windows Server, see section: 2.2.07 of this FAQ. =============================================================== [7.4.03] - TeleFinder TeleFinder 3.2 runs on all Macs from the Plus through the Quadras, and is 32-bit clean, System 7 "Savvy," and includes full balloon help for the user. Its administrative and program modules can be fully controlled via AppleEvents. Multi-node chat ( up to three nodes) and Instant Messages.Use of styled text in text files, e-mail and message topics using proprietary client software. On-line previews of GIF, JPEG images, QuickTime movies and PICT files. Expanded file descriptions up to 32K. Resizable e-mail windows. Automatic template for electronic mail. Capable of managing up to 32,000 users, its icon- and menu-based graphical user proprietary interface provides electronic mail, conferencing, and Z-modem file transfers. TeleFinder's multi-server architecture supports multiple BBS nodes running on separate Macs on a network. Additionally, TeleFinder's full implementation of AppleEvents supports advanced functionality such as automatic on-line registration, full remote administrative capabilities, and control of the BBS's server programs. Features include a menu-driven terminal interface with user- selectable TTY or ANSI graphics options, and unlimited paths using Access Groups. Each access group supports separate welcome messages, privileges and custom icons. TeleFinder Group Edition supports a find file function. Using "BBS TeleFinder" also supports caller and file transfer statistics. Spider Island Software tel (714) 669-9260 fax (714) 669-1383 BBS (714) 730-5785 Internet: support@spiderisland.com AppleLink: D4955 America Online: SpiderIsla Spider Island Software Price List ( World-Wide ) As of 5/1/94 TeleFinder Group Edition version 3.2 multi-line BBS system for unlimited users and multiple nodes. $425 NetConnect version 1.01 Single-zone license $149 Multi-zone license $295 TeleFinder Pro version 2.2 Macintosh communications software with off-line reader for Telefinder BBS's. $15 TeleFinder/User for Windows 1.0.3 $250 =============================================================== [7.4.04] - Hi BBS Below is e-mail which I (Claire Walters) received from: Laurent Zagury, Manager, Consulting services XBR Communications Inc Unit Price Qty discount Unit Price (US$) 3 to 9 (US$) hi-BBS SoHo 88$ 15% 75$ (1 channel and 5 mail boxes) Additional 5 mail boxes * 30$ 15% 25$ Windows for Soho 50$ 15% 43$ hi-BBS-2 channels 369$ 15% 314$ hi-BBS-Windows interface 170$ 15% 145$ Interface for 2 channels only hi-BBS-4 channels 569$ 15% 484$ hi-BBS-8 channels 1,069$ 15% 909$ hi-BBS-16 channels 1,569$ 15% 1,334$ hi-BBS-32 channels 2,069$ 15% 1,759$ hi-BBS-64 channels 2,569$ 15 2,184$ hi-BBS-256 channels 3,069$ 15% 2,609$ hi-BBS-Windows interface 270$ 15% 230$ for 4 channels and up Thank you for listing XBR in this listing. Best regards, __________________ Laurent Zagury Manager, Consulting services XBR Communications Inc E-mail: laurent@xbrcom.qc.ca ----------------------- Headers ------------------------ From laurent@xbrcom.qc.ca Tue Oct 4 15:17:44 1994 Return-Path: Received: from sales by xbrcom.qc.ca (NX5.67c/NX3.0M) --------------------------------------------------------------- - Unlimited number of modem lines with their networked server option. - Unlimited number of files. Hi-BBS files can be split over as many remote volumes as you care. - Finder-based organization of files. - CD's and remote volumes can be added at any time, without disruption of the server or users. - Server does garbage collection tasks in the background, without disruption of connected users. - AppleTalk support included. TCP/IP, X.25 and ISDN fully supported as well. - Mac & Windows graphic user interfaces. - Command Line Interface included. - Apple Events and alias support - Apple's XTND translation technology fully supported. Open any kind of document as a memo. - Offline mail composition included. - Upload sections. The Upload sections can be located anywhere, locally or on a remote volume. - E-mail section with multiple attachments (incl. sound), return request, mail forwarding and replies. - Multiple online conferences. Users can participate in more than one at a time. - Fully threaded public forums, with multiple attachments and text formatting. - Multi-volumes file transfer/information sections. - File tagging for postponed downloading, and auto-disconnect at end of transfer. XBR Communication voice 514-489-1001 Fax 514-489-4996 BBS 514-489-0445 Internet - Support@XBRcom.qc.ca JP@xbrcom.qc.ca Applelink : XBR =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 7.5 - Text based, Shareware & Keyware Macintosh BBS software =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [7.5.01] - Hermes II Hermes II is distributed as keyware (i.e. you can use it for 30 days , but if you don't register it within 30 days, the software will not work). Registering Hermes II gives you a serial number that allows you to use it further. Hermes II will run on the Macintosh Plus and above. Hermes II must be run on System 6.0.4 or above. It also requires that you install the Macintosh Communications Toolbox if you donUt use System 7. It also requires 2000K of memory to run, more if you run more than one node, have file directories with more than 200-300 files each, or run external applications. It supports both ANSI and VT100 mode. Hermes allows up to 64 file directories, 10 message forums, with up to 30 sub-forums within each forum. Hermes II supports many features such as external applications, CD-ROM and Tabby support, threading in message forums, even an internal screen saver. Hermes also supports a feature called "Multiple Feedback" which will allow feedback to be sent to cosysops or any other users. The users to be sent mail can be configured by the sysop. Hermes has a feature called the File Manager for uploading new files and deleting or editing files already online. It also allows you to multiple select files for deleting. You can also select whether you want your file libraries to be sorted alphabetically or by date. You can also add descriptions for your files from the File Manager. As far as sysop options, Hermes II will also allow both a local and a fast logon as well. Hermes also provides many options in user features that a sysop may set up for each user, such as whether the user can post, chat, send e-mail, etc. But it also allows the sysop to decide if the user can post or read anonymous messages, list users, change a message, or see upload info. Also, you can restrict any user below a certain age from accessing certain areas of your board... The host also allows you to chat with users, squelch users (prevent them from typing any commands while you are modifying something such as their access), give temporary sysop privileges just for the time he/she is online, etc. Finally, Hermes has a few features such as allowing you to create form letters (such as validation messages, expired accounts, etc.), store them, then later retrieve and send them easily. There is a status bar on your screen that displays information about who's online now and that users' statistics, who called last, the number of posts, uploads and downloads for the day . Hermes II can also allow you to create a "Trash Users" file, that will not allow users to log on with certain handles that might be slightly offensive. Computer Classifieds 12819 SE 38th #101 Bellevue, WA 98006 206-643-2316 (voice) 206-643-7830 (fax) 206-643-2874 (BBS) Current Programmer - Robert Rebbun Documentation by Lloyd Woodall Primary Program by Frank Price, III =============================================================== [7.5.02] - Mansion ZSys Software P.O. Box 65981 West Des Moines, Iowa 50265-0981 Mansion will run on a Macintosh Plus or better, and supports speeds from 300 to 38400 baud. Mansion also allows the sysop to use multiple drives for file libraries, supports the use of CD-ROMs, and uses several different flavors of Xmodem for downloading. It allows up to 32767 conferences, 999 library sections, 32767 membership accounts, and up to 999 messages per conference. Some of Mansion's features supported include ASCII graphics, the ability for users to move very quickly around the BBS using the teleport command. Users can page the sysop if there is a problem, or use the help folder provided with Mansion to help with such topics as using the conferences, downloading files, sending messages, and so on. Mansion also has the ability to assign sounds to certain key events. Events such as when a user pages the sysop, when mail is sent to the sysop, when a caller drops carrier or times out, and at what speed the caller is calling in at. Users also have search ability with Mansion. Users can search for other members, search for members with similar interests (users can enter up to a 40 character string upon first logging in), can check for new messages addressed to them since their last call, or can look for new files since last logon or from any date they choose. Mansion provides support for the sysop. It can provide a detailed account of the activities on your conferences, generate a list of applications that have not been approved by the system, and give you information about the activities of callers such as number of messages posted, files uploaded, and download. Mansion also creates logs of any errors the BBS encounters, a log file used by Mansion external applications, and a list of logons to the BBS. It also allows the sysop to do a fast local login to get on the board quickly, without having to input account name and password. Finally, Mansion allows the use of external applications written for Mansion, and scripting capability to enhance the BBS. It has a random quote feature built-in, allows callers to send packages (files) to other members, and allows the sysop to send garbage across the line before hanging up on a user. America On-line: MarkT15 JamesP51 FidoNet: 1:290/2.1 1:285/13.1 Internet: Mark_Toland%cedsm@uunet.uu.net James_Podlasek@theboard.omahug.org QuickMail: Mark Toland 515-224-1721 FidoNet: MANSION echo ZSys BBS (515) 279-3073 The Board BBS (402) 331-4521 Price: $94.95 per New Registration of Mansion Nine BBS Software. =============================================================== [7.5.03] - Public Address Public Address v0.9b9 Public Address offers serial/modem, AppleTalk ADSP and TCP/IP-telnet connections, all-asynchronous serial IO, as many ports/lines as memory will allow, as many concurrently connected users as memory will allow, as many BBS users as disk space will allow, no maximum number of message bases or transfer directories, as many messages or files in each message base or transfer directory as disk space will allow. It also supports XModem (Checksum & CRC), YModem, YModem-G, and ZModem transfers, uses a very fast 16-color ANSI screen driver, supports external mailers, and can sublaunch an external mailer for events as well as crashmail Public Address is completely modular. Everything the online user sees is controlled by modules, which can be added and rearranged by the Sysop. The interface information for writing modules in Pascal, C and C++ is currently available to all those who are interested on the authors BBS at (503)485-7781. The interface consists of over 200 routines passed from the application/engine. This documentation also contains the source code to all stock modules. How to contact the author : colengc@efn.org Support BBS: (503)485-7781 (28.8K baud) =============================================================== [7.5.04] - Second Sight Second Sight The FreeSoft Company Second Sight Order Department 105 McKinley Road Beaver Falls, PA 15010 Voice (412) 846-2700. Fax (412) 847-4436. BBS (412) 846-5312 Originally Written by Scott Watson. Version 3.0 by Jeff Dripps. Second Sight 3.0 is a multi-line Bulletin Board System for the Macintosh. Within this complete integrated package is everything a Sysop needs to set up, run and maintain a full featured multi-line, Color ANSI Bulletin Board System. Second Sight 3.0 requires 750K of RAM per node. The number of nodes is limited only by machine memory and Nubus slots available (NuBus slots are required for additional serial ports). Each node would consist of a copy of Second Sight, a modem cable, a modem and a telephone line. Second Sight is a menu driven system, that is, it operates by offering the connected client a list of choices. There is no limit to the number of menus that you can define. Group mail is supported. A single message can now be sent to a group of users. Supports NewUser.Survey and LogOff.Survey at logon and logoff time. Price $199 =============================================================== [7.5.05] - WWIV A note from Terry Teague dated June 1996. A Macintosh version of the WWIV software available as shareware/donation ware. Full setup available on the BBS in a Box CD. ANSI and VT100 access only. No longer supported by its author (last version released was v3.0). Do not send mail to the addresses listed in the software documentation, as they are no longer valid. " Regards, Terry Teague =============================================================== [7.5.06] - PANCAKE Features: Uses little memory (200k for 2 nodes) Gen Import (TabbyNet or MacKennel) importing (ditto) Importing occurs in a seperate app that multitasks! Editor Externals (Line Editor implemented, Full Screen left for third party) Sysop Internal Editor (A nice Text Edit window for the sysop's posts and mails) User Directories (Every user has his own directory that holds all his stuff) Command Line Shell for those who like it CLI Hotkey Shell for those who like hotkeys Percent variables (used everywhere, in all strings, and in all text files) Port negotiation so that your favorite term program can be launched without screwing up a port! Built in screen saver (Customizable with percent variables) Status Bar is completly customizable also! News reading optimized for ease of use Vax type help system that is completely customizable Chat can use Speech Manager to speak the Chat Reason! Paging options (Users can page a sysops Numeric pager) Nodes are dynamically created and detroyed (much like PA). Contact: ferrari@netaxs.com Ferrari's Shop at 610-971-9172. =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 7.6 - The Macintosh and Public Networks =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [7.6.01] - Internet access Internet --------- In the past few weeks I have seen many posts about making a Mac an Internet site. One way of doing this is through BBS's running on a Mac platform. There are two Mac BBS platforms that can support Internet services in varying capacities. I have not included platforms that support UUCP only, or a use of the Mac comm toolbox and networking through there to supply a limited telnet in capability. I wanted to concentrate on the more robust and graphical interfaces of NovaLink Pro and First Class. These two packages post quite a bit of traffic on the Internet through various schemes and below is a comparison of their basic Internet capabilities as of 9/15/94: TELNET IN Novalink - Telnet in capabilities built in. Installed with a key file. Users access the machine like a modem user, but they come in over a telnet session. The terminal program (NovaTerm) can be used so long as the machine its on has a SLIP or other Internet connection running. Instead of selecting modem as connection type, the user selects TCP and enters the server address. Supports up to 64 connections - limited only by MacTCP. Cost $1200 ( Included as package telnet in telnet out, SMTP mail and NNTP newsgroups for $1200 total for ALL features) Shipping since 1993. First Class - Telnet capabilities. Should work like any other inbound network connection. Supports up to 64 connections - limited only by MacTCP. Cost $995 Promised in fourth quarter 1994 TELNET OUT NovaLink - Telnet out built in. Installed with a key file. Just click on a Telnet icon and enter the address to where you want to go. Works the same as any other telnet server. A user can also pre-defined area to telnet to so you can have your users click on an icon and they telnet over to another server. Cost $1200 ( Included as package telnet in telnet out, SMTP mail and NNTP newsgroups for $1200 total for ALL features) Shipping since 1993 First Class - Not available or announced. Maury Markowitz has said that they will leave this to outside third party developers. No third party announcement of telnet out have been made to the best of my knowledge. INTERNET E-MAIL NovaLink - SMTP or UUCP. Cost - SMTP $1200 - ( Included as package telnet in telnet out, SMTP mail and NNTP newsgroups for $1200 total for ALL features) UUCP from Hologate $495 Shipping since 1993 First Class - UUCP or SMTP No internally developed product, even though it has been on the Softarc price list for over one year. Latest word is will be "in the future". The only SMTP mail server is from third party developer Delphic Software. Needs separate machine to get the feed, and then gates over to the First Class server. Need to Ethernet (or Appletalk) the two machines together. Hologate is also testing a future product to offer SMTP access. SMTP Cost $995.00 (includes NNTP news) Shipping 9/94 UUCP - Softarc has their own UUCP product in late beta(currently on version 26) to ship 4th quarter 1994. Hologate and one other company offer UUCP gateways at $495 each I believe. USENET NEWSGROUPS NovaLink - NNTP Cost - (Included as package telnet in telnet out, SMTP mail and NNTP newsgroups for $1200 total for ALL features) Shipping since 1993 First Class - NNTP Included as part of the SMTP mail server from third party developer Delphic Software. Needs separate machine to get the feed, and then gates over to the First Class server. Need to Ethernet (or Appletalk) the two machines together. ExpressNet/SMTP can handle SMTP mail, NNTP and INN news, has a built-in mail list server, finger server, signature line management utility, alias manager, and gives the FirstClass administrator complete control over the font, size, style, and color of the Internet messages being imported to FirstClass. Cost $995 ( Includes SMTP Mail) Shipping 9/94 WWW (HTML - Mosaic access) NovaLink - Announced HTML incorporated into all messages, whether E-mail, newsgroups, forums, etc. The local server option will be included in the base package. The networked HTML Novalink will serve as a Web server for the Internet or your own private network. The client NovaTerm will serve as an HTML client to the NovaLink server. These features will be featured in a fourth quarter 1994 release of NovaLink. Cost - Each server will come with local HTML links ( including GIF's, Quicktime movies and sound) at the base price. Networked links version price is unknown. First Class - Best explained with a quote from Maury Markowitz(of Softarc - makers of First Class) in alt.bbs.first-class on 9/6/94 "I DID say that we tend to leave CLIENT support to 3rd parties. For example, we will most likely not build in HTML decoders ourselves, that's something we leave to our talented developers..." FTP, Gopher etc. - These items are not yet available on any package. The developers of NovaLink and First Class have made noises that they or third party developers will develop these options for their packages. None have been formally announced that I am aware of. Please note that with HTML built into Novalink, gophering will be available as a web function. FILE HANDLING PROBLEMS..... The Internet and its vast information resources put a severe strain on the average Mac trying to handle the information flow. PROBLEMS THAT MAY OCCUR: Large amount of messages. - The Macintosh operating system in its current form limits to 32,000 files per volume ( hard drive partition) If your Mac handles a lot of Usenet groups, and you keep the messages for several days, 32,000 messages could easily overflow your partition if it were set up as one message per file. NovaLink - Has gotten around this by creating only one file per message forum, no matter how many messages are in that forum. This is a solution used on the PC side by many developers, and is used only by NovaLink on the Mac side. First Class - can handle 32,000 messages per volume. Solution is to segment your hard disk into several volumes. Message Length. The Macintosh operating system uses a text editor that has a maximum message length of 32k. Many Internet posting are over 32k in length. NovaLink - Has rewritten the text editor to handle message length only limited by available RAM when tossing messages into the forum/mail area that it belongs in NovaLink. First Class - Can only handle 32k message lengths. When a message is longer, it breaks them up into 32k chunks and automatically numbers then 1/4, 2/4 etc.. Softarc says this will be fixed in mid-1995. All major Mac BBS's can use UUCP for mail/news but the best combo for being "live on the Internet for Telnet/mail/newsgroups is: NovaLink - Buy the professional package ( $1200) and have a SLIP or better connection to the Internet. This will allow telnet in and out, SMTP ( Direct access) mail and NNTP newsfeeds. This package has been shipping for a year. First Class - Buy the telnet kit from Softarc (available 4th quarter 1994) for INBOUND connections ($995) and the SMTP kit from Delphic software ($995) and Ethernet your two Macs ( one is needed for the SMTP gateway the other for First Class) together for faster access. This will allow inbound telnet, SMTP mail, NNTP newsfeeds, and finger capabilites. ExpressNet/SMTP can handle SMTP mail, NNTP and INN news, has a built-in mail list server, finger server, signature line management utility, alias manager, and gives the FirstClass administrator complete control over the font, size, style, and color of the Internet messages being imported to FirstClass. =============================================================== [7.6.02] - NovaWorld Unlike any other network, NovaWorld is breaking ground revolutionizing the electronic communication networking with an simple to use, yet very powerful linking system. Integration into the Internet. Any system can link into the master hub, InfoPort in Denver via Telnet and exchange messages, mail and files. By using the Internet as a backbone, the speed of the system increases and the costs decrease. Of course systems can also call via modem to link into the system on regular phone lines. Internet E-Mail for any network connection. No other software needed. No fancy scripts need to find the Internet, just address your mail and link into your hub. Multi-hop mail to any system (or the Internet) simply by putting the user name/ system name. Replies are automatically routed back to the originating system. ANY Internet newsgroup needed can be gated to your BBS. Replies are sent seamlessly as a reply, with no special characters needed. Easy linking through InfoLink. Just a few mouse clicks and a SYSOP can link a message forum or file forum. Subscription to the system forums is easy. No need to have your network hub set your distribution, It is all automatic. Thus a SYSOP can start or stop forums automatically, without human intervention. Files can be shared with ease among all of the system, making it a good shareware system for authors. PC compatible as well as Macintosh shareware will be distributed. Multiple interface options to call into the net with a Macintosh GUI, RIP graphics for the PC, ANSI, or VT100. NovaWorld the first Network designed with a human in mind. Hub sites have been established in Europe, and Canada. Over 100 systems have joined since its 3/94 inception. NovaWorld inquiries should be sent to: James Barry jmbarry@infoport.com jmbarry/InfoPort on any NovaWorld system InfoPort BBS (303) 429-0291 or telnet infoport.com Snail Mail to: P.O. BOX 620805 Littleton, CO 80162-0805 Voice messages (303)657-9667 =============================================================== [7.6.03] - OneNet The OneNet Member Network is an organization of private individuals around the world who own FirstClass systems and hook them together to exchange mail and conferences. While OneNet members use FirstClass and take advantage of its built-in gateway features, the OneNet is completely arm's-length from SoftArcQwhich has nothing to do with its operation. A core set of conferences is shared by all systems in the network and contains discussions of interest to all computer users. These conferences cover a wide variety of topics and include networked support conferences from many computer industry vendors, including SoftArc Inc., developers of FirstClass. One of the most popular conferences on the network is one in which Apple employees routinely log on to give unofficial advice to other users. Gatewaying systems can pick their choice of conferences they wish to carry from the backbone hub systems, which already distribute more than 400 forums (much as a magazine distributor gives retailers many choices from which to pick.) The OneNet Member network now includes more than 500 systems across the world. There are regional hub sites in Europe, Japan, Australia, Africa, North and South America and Hong Kong. More than a half of a million people use the OneNet at the time of this writing. The OneNet Member Network Primary Hub is located in Boulder Colorado. For questions on how to find your local OneNet Member Network system, or how to get a 'feed' into the OneNet, call 303-444-2205. To get more general information about the OneNet, call the OneNet Los Altos system by modem at 415-948-1349 or try our voicemail system 415-948-4775. Earthmail inquires should go to: Scott Converse, OneNet Executive Director 4546 El Camino Real, # 127 Los Altos, California 94022 USA Internet address: OneNet@OneNet.com or Scotto@OneNet.com Scott Converse, Executive Director, OneNet Member Network Contact via modem @ 415-948-1349, via voice line @ 415-948-4775 =============================================================== [7.6.04] - Fido Net on the Mac FidoNet is a network of BBS's linked worldwide by using common technology to share messages and E-mail in a series. Almost every kind of computer has a way of accessing FidoNet. All Mac BBS's have the ability to tap into the amateur BBS network. There are thousands of BBS's linked to the various Fido based networks and many Mac BBS's are amoung them. FidoNet is available through the Mac by using several packages as externals that then import the FidoNet messages in bulk and sort them out to the Macintosh BBS in a separate step. There are several packages available for Mac BBS software. Tabby is the grandfather of all packages, but appears to have been stopped being supported. MacKennel, and Aeolus are the other two packages that appear to still be around. Please E-mail the editor with any changes to this, as I feel there must be other Fido packages out there. MacKennel is a series of FidoNet compatible mailers written by Craig Vaughan, author of the MacWoof point package for the Macintosh. MacKennel offers two levels of performance for the Macintosh BBS operator: Level 1 - Basic Point Mailer: * Manual or Automatic session operation * Supports seamless integration with NLP, Telefinder, Hermes and Tabby compatible BBS systems. * Unlimited echo support * ARC and ZIP mail bundle processing with automatic compression type detection * Supports both 4D and "pointnet" addressing methods * WaZoo (ZedZap) and FTS-0001 sessions Level 2 - FidoNet Node Mailer: All the features of Level 1 plus: * Multiple modes of operation: * "Front end" mailer for any BBS that accepts ADSP nodes * Smart Doggie backend mailer * Tabby style backend mailer * Stand alone mailer - no BBS required (requires MacWoof to read/create messages) * Operations can be fully scheduled on a daily or weekly basis. Scheduled operations include: * Automatic polling of multiple nodes * Scheduled launching of other applications for maintenance or utility functions * System Restart or Shutdown * Can be configured for "Continuous/Crash" mail operation * Allows the Sysop to "lock out" callers during specified time periods such as Zone mail hour * Fully "zone" and aware with both direct and "host" routing of netmail * Fully supports points and/or other nodes for echomail distribution * No limit on the number of nodes receiving an echo * Nodelist support with automatic "nodediff" updating Pricing: Level 1 $75.00 Level 2 $150.00 MacKennel - Craig Vaughn (703) 241-5492 (BBS) FE.MAN@Genie.GEIS.COM Also up and coming is Aeolus Fido Net point mailer Aeolus For more details, contact: Delphic Software ExpressNet/SMTP PO Box 7604 Internet: info@delphic.com Redlands, CA 92375-0604 America Online: Delphic Sw (909) 792-7932 Voice eWorld: Delphic Sw (909) 792-4902 FirstClass Tabby is the name of a program that is no longer made or supported for importing Fido files to your Mac. Tabby may be still found at various sites around the BBS community (including BBS in a Box CDUs) ************************************************************** CHAPTER 8 - UNIX AT YOUR SERVICE ************************************************************** =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 8.1 - Unix Q&A =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [8.1.01] - What's a Unix? UNIX is an operating system. The original version, called Unics, was written by Ken Thompson at AT&T's Bell Laboratories in 1969. In 1973, Thompson and Dennis Ritchie (co-creator of the C programming language) rewrote it in C. Since C compilers are available for many systems, UNIX has been "ported" or rewritten to run on various systems under various names. If you've ever used Solaris or SunOS on a Sun workstation, HP/UX on a Hewlett-Packard, AIX on an IBM, AUX on a Mac, IRIX on a Silicon Graphics workstation, or Xenix or Linux on a PC, you've used a version of UNIX. =============================================================== [8.1.02] - The Pros & Cons of a Unix BBS The greatest strength of UNIX is that it was written from the ground up, as a multi-user system for networked computers. Therefore, almost any BBS running on UNIX automatically has multi-user capabilities, and providing network and communication services is also simple. UNIX is not a system for the novice, though. It's a fairly technical system, and for a BBS written on one version of UNIX to run on another version, the source code usually must be reconfigured and recompiled. The cheapest UNIX systems usually cost $3000 or more. =============================================================== [8.1.03] - What factors should I consider when starting a BBS on UNIX? First and foremost, you should consider what sort of service you want to provide. If you want fast-moving message areas, perhaps a small chat area, and possibly a link to some sort of informational system, one of the Citadels would be your best choice. If you want to focus on the informational system, with the BBS as part of it, PANDA would be best. For e-mail and net-news, XBBS is the way to go, and if you have a Linux PC, you can use UniBoard or DOC. Secondly, you need to consider how large a system your UNIX computer can support. A fast PC can probably handle four or five users at once. A ten-thousand dollar workstation can probably handle twenty or thirty. If you want to handle a thousand users at once, you'd better have deep pockets. Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, you need to consider how users will connect to your system. You can connect modems to your UNIX computer and let them dial in, or you can establish a connection to the Internet and let them connect over the network, or both. The Internet lets multiple users from around the world connect over the same link, so its appeal is obvious, but if you just want to serve your local community, you might do just as well without it. You can even go halfway, and have your computer call the network just to send and receive electronic mail every night. =============================================================== [8.1.04] - Where can I get the UNIX BBS FAQ? While surfing around the net looking for info on UNIX BBS software I found the UNIX BBS FAQ. This section is a pointer to the UNIX BBS FAQ. I will continue to add to the UNIX sections of the BBS FAQ, however, the UNIX FAQ may have additional info that might be helpful as well. =============================================================== From: tree@bbs.dsnet.com (System Administrator) Newsgroups: alt.bbs.unixbbs,alt.bbs,alt.answers,news.answers Subject: Unix BBS Software Frequently Asked Questions Followup-To: poster Organization: DSnet Approved: news-answers-request@MIT.EDU Reply-To: unixbbs@dsnet.com Archive-name: unix-faq/bbs-software/faq Posting-Frequency: every 15 days Version: 1.4 Last-modified: 1994/12/07 Contributions to the UNIX BBS FAQ can be emailed to: unixbbs@dsnet.com This FAQ was previously maintained by news@wolves.durham.nc.us (Gregory G. "Wolfe" Woodbury). Unfortunately Greg found he didn't have the time to keep the FAQ updated so I have taken over the job. Duane Davis root@dsnet.com The following packages are covered in the UNIX BBS FAQ: AKCS AWBBS Caucus Citadel/UX Commune/IX drealm EBBS (Eagle's Nest) GDXBBS ix/MBox Magpie MBS QueBBS pbbs (Pink BBS) PBBS (Pirate BBS) brand-x TEAMate TERM UBBS (Ultimate) Unidel UniBoard (UnixBBS) VA.PEN Waffle WhatBBS (a perl BBS) XBBS Z/Max Xchange yabbs =============================================================== =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 8.2 - UNIX SHAREWARE/FREEWARE BBS SOFTWARE =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [8.2.01] - Citadel/UX Citadel/UX runs on UNIX, but looks and feels just like a Citadel on a PC, Amiga, or Atari ST. At least a half-dozen BBSes on Internet run versions of this software. It focuses on fast-moving message bases. =============================================================== [8.2.02] - DOC DOC - short for "Dave's Own Citadel" - is descended from Citadel/UX. It adds a few new functions, and supports more users. Internet's biggest DOC BBS can handle nearly 1,000 users at once. =============================================================== [8.2.03] - PANDA PANDA is an information server developed at the University of Iowa. It's not explicitly a BBS, but it can provide BBS-style message bases within a larger information system. It isn't truly shareware, but it doesn't have a set price either - you get to work out your own deal. =============================================================== [8.2.04] - UBBS 1.01 (Linux) From chris@quicksys.net Tue Jan 24 20:08:07 1995 Message-Id: From: chris@quicksys.net (Christoph Strozyk) Subject: BBS FAQ Unix Section To: clairew@pluto.njcc.com Date: Wed, 25 Jan 1995 02:08:03 +0100 (MET) Ubbs productinformations, Textrelease 1.1 (This is a fast translation from German, please ignore any language errors for now.) These are the answers to some common questions about Ubbs. We hope, this informations are helpfull for you. What is Ubbs? Ubbs stays for Unix Bulletin Board System. The author of the basic version is Jean Francois Gagnon from Quebec in Canada. The actual developement of Ubbs is made by quick System Service. quickSyS owns all rights on Ubbs source. Ubbs is a clone of Remote Access 0.04 with many Unix based enhancements, it comes with all features needed for a professional multiline mailbox. for first time users it look simmilar to RA. Why is Ubbs so flexible? You can generate with the prg `umenu` you own menus. The hole menu system is in your hands. Menus can be combined with files for displaying, supported are ASCII and ANSI files. Ubbs gets the correct file dependent on the users configurations/terminal emulation. These files may contain a lot of extra escape sequences for displaying statistic (online time, download ratios,user name, ...) and more. Configure your own menu system, based on our provided samples. This feature gives your mailbox your own look and feel, and yourself an unlimited freedom in flexibility. You can edit the standard system files and change them. Some standard files are: logo, maxlogon, newsuser1, welcome, nospace, readhelp, sleep, notfound, notavail, private, xferhelp, paged, ... . All messages in Ubbs come from changeable ASCII/ANSI Files. All internal messages come from textfiles, actually we provide the languages english, german and french. You can add your preverred languages very easy. While running Ubbs, the user can change the actual message language on the fly. Q: Since when does Ubbs exist? A: 1990. Q: Who was the first customer in europe? A:In 1993 the europan union looked for an easy to use multiline mailbox to include into a project. Ubbs was, and is, the best choice. The projects name is: "Agricultural Extension Service Project, Ungarn, Proj. Nr. 7.991.731" Within this project, quickSyS installed Ubbs and teached users and administrators about Ubbs. Q:Documentation? A:The documentation for Ubbs is written in english. It contains all essential informations on about 100 pages. The documentation will be always adapted to new features by our technical documentation stuff. Q:How can your users access Ubbs? A:User can login via modem, terminal, rlogin, telnet, xterm, multiscreens or any other login feature of your unix system. Some of our customers use extensive access methods by ISDN and X.25. Q:What message system does Ubbs support? A:Ubbs has it's own message database. There exist gateways to Unix Mail (RFC #822) and News (rnews). Coming soon: We work on an ftp interface with full accounting. Updates? Registered customers can get updates from our service mailbox, ftp server or by nuucp for a limited time of 6 month for free. We offer no general free access to our ftp servers. Q:Which platforms does Ubbs support? Linux SVR4.2 (Unixware,..) SCO Unix SVR3.2 SVR4.0 (Dell, ..) Solaris 2.3, 2.4 (Sparc) Sun OS 4.1.x NextStep Here is a SHORT overview of the features: multiline, multilanguage, multiline Chat message database, user database mail and news interfaces configuration programs curses based user database editor/analyse tool, curses based logfile for every tty user online time and up/download accounting interactive questionary language menu functions: Goto Menu, Gosub Menu, Return from Gosub, Goto StkClr, Display, Select Menu, Execute, Version, Logoff, Usage Graph, Page Sysop, Questionary, User List, Time, Stats, Exit to OS, Change Location, Change Password, Change Length, Page Clearing, Page Pausing, Change ANSI Mode, Mail Check, Read Messages, Scan Messages, QuickScan Messages, Delete Messages, Post a Message, Pick Areas, Move File, Directory, Files List, Download, Upload a File, ist archive contents, Search for keyword, Search Name, New Files, View File, File path, Display w/hotkeys, Message Editor, Change Hotkeys, New Mail, Clear Areas, Display and Wait, Stamp Log, Download W/Spec, Message Areas, File Areas, Today's Callers, Who's online, Change Disturb, Send Message, Download any file, Browse Node, Change Home Phone, Change Data Phone, hange Escape Sequence, Define Escape Sequence, Change Language. Price: $25 Demo Version, any platforms, 2 lines, limited for 30 day usage period. Documentation as PostScript file. $99 Linux version, limited to 2 lines. Not expandable. Not for commercial use. Documentation as PostScript file. $399 commercial version, all platforms, 2 lines $675 commercial version, all platforms, 4 lines $1995 commercial version, all platforms, 16 lines $3495 commercial version, all platforms, 32 lines $5995 commercial version, all platforms, 64 lines call commercial version, all platforms, unlimited lines $25 documentation set All commercial version include printed documentation. We limit only the numbers of same time logins, not the number of devices. You can limit/allow access by devices and speed. Please ask for special versions. Further questions? Call us, or write to chris@quicksys.net Company informations: quick System Service Christoph Strozyk Sprockhoeveler Str. 55 58455 Witten Germany Tel. +49-2302-28133-0 Fax. +49-2302-28133-6 -- Christoph Strozyk | quick System Service, chris@quicksys.net Sprockhoeveler Str. 55 | Consulting and Software Development 58455 Witten, Germany | +49-2302-28133-0 voice, +49-2302-28133-6 fax =============================================================== [8.2.05] - UniBoard From: pizzi@nervous.com (Riccardo Pizzi) Subject: UniBoard 2.0 beta2 uploaded on ftp.wariat.org Message-ID: Sender: pizzi@nervous.com (Riccardo Pizzi) Organization: the Nervous Consulting Headquarters, Rimini, Italy Date: Fri, 24 Feb 1995 03:02:17 CET UniBoard 2.0beta2 is available for FTP: ftp.wariat.org:/pub/uniboard/svr3 binaries for SCO/ISC and other 386 SVR3s ftp.wariat.org:/pub/uniboard/svr4 binaries for UnixWare and other 386 SVR4s ftp.wariat.org:/pub/uniboard/linux binaries for Linux 1.0.8 or later Sun Sparc and FreeBSD 2,0 versions should be available on the same site in a couple days. For those who doesn't know about UniBoard, point your favourite browser to: gopher://gopher.apk.net:70/00/uniboard/uniboard - or - send mail to with the following in the message body: SEND LIST QUIT This is a little mail server that can send you most of the info you need. Ciao, Rick -- Riccardo Pizzi @ the Nervous Consulting Headquarters, Rimini, ITALY E-Mail: pizzi@nervous.com ZyX/FAX: +39-541-23111 V.FC: +39-541-27135 Nervous Consulting brought you UniBoard, the great UNIX BBS package. INFO: uniboard@nervous.com or gopher://gopher.apk.net:70/00/uniboard/uniboard =============================================================== [8.2.06] - XBBS 7.21 XBBS is a menu-driven system which offers message bases, e-mail, and Usenet news-reading capabilities. Users can't move through it quite as quickly as they can in Citadel, so it's easier to keep up with the discussions. Sanford Zelkovitz sandy@alphacm.rmii.com Home of XBBS 1200/2400/Telebit PEP/FAX 719-548-0782 4800/9600/14.4K/28.8K 719-548-0757 Voice: 719-548-9971 =============================================================== [8.2.07] - Magpie BBS Magpie BBS, (212)420-0527 Support/Demo System for Magpie BBS/Conferencing Software Steve Manes, New York, NY =============================================================== [8.2.08] - UnixBBS v1.03 Introduction -------------- UnixBBS is a complete USENET-compliant BBS package for Unix SYSV R3/R4 on Intel platforms (386/486). For more info, send e-mail to pizzi@nervous.com. UnixBBS v1.03 is available on Akademia Pana Kleksa Public Unix by calling: (216)241-7541 Log in either as 'bbs' (for [x,y,z]modem download) or 'nuucp' (for an uucico session) and request these files: UBBS103a.tar.Z # PD archiver programs UBBS103b.tar.Z # the UnixBBS binaries UBBS103c.tar.Z # the config files and dirs UBBS103d.tar.Z # documentation UBBS103p.tar.Z # PD file transfer protocols If you are in Europe, you could call the Development Site instead: +39 541 27135 HST,PEP,V32 log in as 'bbs' and download from file area #8. What's new in UnixBBS 1.03 -------------------------- * Added support for carbon copies in email section when sending mail. * Added support for carbon copies in email section when replying to mail. * Multiple newsgroups posting is now allowed. A new token named 'AdditionalGroupsAskLevel' in Config.bbs is used to declare the minimum access level required to be asked for additional newsgroups when posting new messages. Also, the 'a' flag in the message base definition files should be used to designate the groups that allow this feature. To post to additional groups as well as the current one, the user should have access and post permissions to all the groups specified. * A new token in Config.bbs 'EnableQuestionnaire' can be used to turn the questionnaire function on or off. If disabled, the questionnaires can still be accessed from the Main Menu, but new users will no longer be prompted for questionnaire compilation when they first log in. * Support for four different outbound mail address formats have been added. The new token 'MailboxAddressFormat' should be used to specify which format to use for outgoing email. * An RFC822 "Reply-To:" header has been added to outgoing news articles. * The separator character used in mailbox names is now definable from the Config.bbs file by modifying the value of the 'MailboxNameSeparator' token. Although the dot '.' used by UnixBBS 1.02 is correct from the RFC point of view, it has been reported to that some mailers are not compatible. * A minor bug in bbsmon was fixed that caused the input command in chat or kill screen to be executed even if no ENTER key was pressed if the refresh timeout occurred while some value was being entered on the input line. The bbsmon release id was changed from 1.20 to 1.21. * A check on the device names given on bbsmon command line has been a