PUBLISHED BY ■■ SCHOLASTIC INC. DECEMBER 1983 FAMILY VOLUME I NUMBER 4 SI. 95 A Guide to Word Processing sS"s^^eo T^"^^"^ By Peter McWilliams seidom^-feu you 76956"14008' 1 2 Buyer's Guide to Joysticks, Paddles, and Tf ak-Balls Specia Christmas for Ma Computer tsrands AT LAST: THE WHOLE ' TRUTH ABOUT FLOPPIES. Amazing book reveals - all! -. How to keep from 3 brainwashing your disk ; so it never loses it's :- memory, :■ How fingerprints can , actually damage disks. Unretouched Kirlian photographs of UFO's (Unidentified Floppy Objects)! The incredible importance of making copies: the Department of Redundancy Depart- ment-and whatgoes on when it goes on! Power- ful secret methods that scientists claim can ac- tually prevent computer amnesia! Alt this, and much more . . . In short, it's an 80- page plain-English, graphically stunning, pocket-sized definitive guide to the care and feeding of flexible disks. For The Book, ask your nearest computer store that sells Elephant" disks, and bring alon^ one and one half earth dollars. For the name of the store, ask us. ELEPHANT MEMORY SYSTEMS' Morketed exclusive/y by Leading Edge Products, Inc.. Information Systems and Supplies D/Vfsion, 55 Providence Highway, Norwood.MA 02062. Can loll free h800-343-84i3. /n,Massachusetts, calf collect (617) 769-8150, Telex 951 -624. THE SECRETS OF PERFECT MEMORY: ONE AND ONE HALF EARTH DOLLARS TRUNKS FOR THE Introducing the most logical place to store Elephant Memory Systems® (or lesser brands of disks): The Trunk. With its alphabetized library index, you can file or retrieve up to 60 disks, instantly. The Trunk is made of durable molded plastic with a hinged, one-piece lid, to keep disks safe from dust, dirt, and other detriments which disks despise. And, it's portable. Because the lid doubles as a carrying handle so your Elephant Memory Systems® disks can go anywhere you do. There's a model for 5V4" and 8" floppies, as well as a cassette-and-game file and a special Atari® version. So if you're looking for the best disk storage system on the market . . . The Trunk is an open-and-shut case. IHE imiNK. ENDORSED DV ELH>HANTS. Elephant Memory Systems* Disks AjvJUine of top-quality floppies, in virtually every 5W and 8' model, for compatibility with virtually every computer on the market. Guaranteed to meet or exceed every industry standard, certified 100% error-free and problem-free, and to maintain its quality for at least 12 million passes hr over a Ife-time of heavy-duty use). Marketed exclusively by Leading Edge Products, Inc., Information Systems and Supplies Division, 55 Providence Highway, Norwood, Massachusetts 02062. Call: toll-free 1-800-343-8413; or in Massachusetts call collect (6171 769-8150. Telex 951-624. nUMILY FEATURES 54 A NO-HASSLE WAY TO SHOP? by Jane Wollman Beat the crowds and save money to boot just by pounding on your computer keys — with the right connection. 58 THE LAYMAN'S GUIDE TO WORD PROCESSING by Peter McWilUams Best-selllng author McWilliams makes even rank beginners understand why word processing has become such a popular computer application for home use. PLUS: A SURVEY OF POPULAR PROGRAMS FOR POPULAR COMPUTERS Page 54 66 A YOUNG GIRL'S FANTASY TURNS TO FORTUNE by James Delson Adventure game designer Roberta Williams turned her talents for storytelling into successful software packages published by the company she heads with her husband, Ken. 70 BUYER'S GUIDE TO JOYSTICKS, PADDLES, AND TRAK-BALLS All you need to know to choose the right hand controller for you and your computer. PLUS: 24 ■■ PLAY-TEST" REVIEWS 76 AUTOMATIC PILOT by Lester Brooks Four homeowners, who've turned science fiction into fact with easy-to-install home-controlling equipment, maj' be part of a wave of the future. PLUS: HOME CONTROL PRODUCTS 81 HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN COMPUTER COVER FOR JUST A FEW DOLLARS by Elaine Balkman Latimer, with Joey Latimer It takes Just a small investment of time and money — and a little sewing skill — to protect your computer. 84 THINGS COMPUTER SALESPEOPLE SELDOM TELL YOU by Roger Schulman Asking the right questions when you buy a computer can save you hours of frustration and rage — and a bundle of money. PLUS: IF YOU'RE BUYING A COMPUTER, HERE'S WHAT YOU SHOULD LOOK AT 96 10 GIFTS YOUR COMPUTER WANTS FOR CHRISTMAS by P. Gregory Springer If your computer makes life easier for you, don"t forget to return the favor— it's sure to pay off for vou as well. 100 HOW PEOPLE AND MACHINES CAN WORK IN HARMONY by Jane WoUman Part two of a special report on ergonomics. PLUS; A CAPSULE GUIDE TO AN ERCONOMIC WORKSTATION Page 96 88 WHAT'S A COMPUTER? California kids have some offbeat answers. 90 GAMES FOR TWO . TEN by Phil Wiswell A selection of games guaranteed to gather crowds of players around the computer, OR Page 88 DECEMBER 1983 PUBLISHED BY SCHOLASTIC INC. VOLUME 1 NUMBER 4 PROGRAMMING PRODUCTS DEPARTMENTS 107 THE PRQGRAMMER For cnihusiasis of all levels. 110 HOLIDAY PROGRAMS by Joey Latimer Trim your electronic tree lo music, make your own, personalized wrapping paper, and di\a'y up liollday chores with programs for Apple. Atari. Commodore 64 and VIC- 20, IBM, Tl, Timex, and TRS-80 computers. 140 PUZZLE Shopper Search: Finding Mom at the department store. 144 READER.WRITTEN PROGRAM Writinff letters in code — making your own character set. 158 WHAT'S IN STORE 14 pages of product announcements and reviews. 158 NEW HARDWARE ANNOUNCEMENTS The latcHl ill the field: Maris 1400XL. Timex's 2000, TRS-80's PC-4, Chalk Board's PowerPad, and more, 162 NOVELTIES AND NOTIONS A compendium of computer-related items including disk pouches, coloring books, calendars, computer printout greeting banners, and more. 164 SOFTWARE GUIDE Quick lakes on two dozen new and noteworthy programs. 170 SOFTWARE REVIEWS 182 BOOK REVIEWS Page 66 EDITOR'S NOTE 14 BEHIND THE SCREENS People, News, and Trends 20 HOME.SCHOOL CONNECTION Take a lesson from teachers — choose educational software the way they do. by Mindy Pantiel and Becky Petersen 26 GAMES Giving games as gifts, by James Delson 32 HOME BUSINESS A successful home accountant. PLUS: TIPS FOR STARTING YOUR OWN HOME ACCOUNTING BUSINESS. by Jeremy Schlosberg 38 COMPUTING CONFIDENTIAL Addicted to computers. by Sarah Korium 44 COMPUTING CLINIC Questions from readers. 48 LIGHT TOUCH The Man Who Bought Too Many Peripherals, by David Kovacs 104 BASIC BOOTH A monthly cartoon. 186 THE PRIMER A multipart reference guide that appears each month. 199 ADVERTISER'S INDEX 200 SIGN OFF Avoiding the "Piano Lesson Syndrome." by Barbara Schwartz Copyright © 1983 by Scholastic Inc. All rights reserved. r^ ^J tj Computer enthusiast Alan Alda uses the ATABI 800XL Computer System. Alda reports: "It's going all the time!" :xiinH ^"^ Introducing; the Atari XL Home Computers: We made them smart enough to know you're only human. '•«»«'<S!: ^Odift^ ©1983 Atari. Inc. All rights reser/ed. ^\^ A Warner Communications Company. he new ATARI XL Home Computers prove that you can blend state-of-the-art technology with good old fashioned friendh- ness. What's a friendly computer? For one thing, it's a computer that speaks your language. Both the new ATARI 600 XL'" and the new ATARI 800 XL'" Computers come with a built-in BASIC language that uses the same simple English you use to converse with the rest of the world. Press the HELP button, not the panic button. Every ATARI XL Computer comes with a HELP key. Some- thing you won't find on any other home computer. New programs are becoming available that let you use this key for helpful "prompts" when you're unsure of what to do next. Press another special key and your ATARI XL automatically performs a self-diag-nostic check— a feature that can save you a needless trip to one of our more than 1,000 ATARI Service" Centers. The ATARI 600XL: It Gets Smarter As You Do. With 16K of memory, the inexpensive ATARI 600XL can handle over a thousand programs: including education, home man- agement, word processing and personal development. Like all ATARI Home Computers, it gives you 256 colors, four sound chan- nels and Atari's unsurpassed graphics. But unhke a lot of other computers, the ATARI 600 XL is ready to grow when you're ready to grow. Every ATARI XL Com- puter is fully compatible with every ATARI peripheral ("periph- erals" are added on to expand what your computer can do). ATARI peripherals include: a low-cost, letter-perfect printer for word processing. A telephone modem that lets you use your tele- phone to connect your computer to other computers thousands of miles away. A disk drive and a cas- sette recorder to store data. And Trak— Balls'" and joysticks to use with Atari's unequalled lineup of great arcade hits. An ATARI 600 XL Computer can be turned into a very brainy 64K computer at a very affordable price. The ATARI 800XL: Power Enough For Over 2,000 Programs: With 64K of built-in memory (as much as the more expensive Apple and IBM computers), the ATARI 800XL can take on any of over 2,000 software programs. That's five times as many as a Commodore 64. There's VisiCalc^' for elec- tronic spreadsheets— faster than the fastest accountant. The Home Filing Manager™ to help keep track of everything from medical records to phonograph records. Family Finances to keep up with your cash flow. Educational pro- grams hke 'Juggles'Rainbow"2 that helps preschoolers develop skills necessary for recognizing the al- phabet. Even "An Invitation To Programming,™" for learning how to program. When You've Grot Our Computer, You've Got Our Number. Ifyouever find yourself stuck, or have any questions at all, just give us a call. 800-538-8543. (In California, 800-672-1404.) Feel free to talk it over. Because if there's anything friendlier than an ATARI Home Computer, it's the humans who make them so friendly. You'll do more with Atari Home Computers. -«»xy. ^VisiCalc is a registered trademark Dt VisiCorp, trademark o( The learning Company. 1 tl you're all thumbs at the 4afboard, MasterTypewill make you a computer whiz. MasterType #1 on everybody's list . . . the first step in computer literacy. MasterType delivers. It is the one and only typing program that dares to be fun without being intimidating. It combines the fast action of video games with the best typing skills develop- ment techniques available. The result? Highly motivated and enjoyable learning. After each of the 18 action-packed program segments, you'll see how you measure up. And you'll become so caught up in the action that before you know it, you'll become a master at the keyboard, calling all the shots. On disks for Applet Atari^ Commodore 64^ $39.95 IBM-PC $49.95 New Atari'' and Commodore 64* cartridges now available. TneSaitbonughSYSieni. gl$earborou(^h Systems, Inc., 25 N. Broadivav. Tarryiown. NX 10591, 1-800-882-8222 |ln NY: 1-9H-332-4545I 730 Broadway. New York. NY 10003 EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEr Claudia Cohi DESIGN DmECTOR Vincent Cecl SENIOK EDITOR Laura Bernstein FEATURES EDITOR Nick Sullivan LlFESl-lfLES EDITOR Sarah Kortum TECHNICAL EDITOR Lance Paavola REVIEWS EDITOR John D. Wallace, Jr. COr^' AND RESEARCH CHIEF Vamlle Martin Kahn COIT AND RESEARCH ASSIS'I'ANT Linda Williams DESIGN ASSOCIATE James C. Montalbano ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR Barbara Sevan TECHNICAL ASSISTANTS Donald Chin, Taz Cook, Al Drayton, Gary Lee, Alexander Whilaker ADMINISTRATI\'E ASSISTANT Megan Van Peebles CONTRIBUTIN'G EDITORS James Delson. John Jainschlgg. Joey Latimer, Ben Rubensteln TECHNICAL AM) EDUCATION CONSULTANT Walter Koelke PUBLISHING PUBLISHER Shlrrel Rhoades ASSOCIATE PUBLISHEti/ CIRCULATION AND MARKETING Vince Dema ClHCUI^TION MANAGER Harold Shain C<RCUIJ\TION STAI'I-' Linda Cucinello, Deirdre McMurray, Mark Mltton BUSINESS MANAGER Steven Abromowltz PRODUCTION MANAGER David J. Lanfie Advertising Sales Offices EAST COAST REPRESENTATION 730 Broadway. New York, NY 10003 ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Harold L, Leddv (212)505-3585 ASSOCIATE ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Charlene D. LeGrand (212) 505-3586 MARKETING DIRECTOR Michael H. Tchong (212) 505-3589 NORTHEAST MANAGER Steve Rosen Tield (212) 505-3587 MinWEST REPRESENTATION 730 Broadway, New York, NY 10003 MIDWEST MANAGER Lisa Kunin (212) 505-3588 WEST.SOUT<fWEST REPRESENTATION 385 Sherman Avenue. Suite 1 Palo AJto. CA 94306 (4151327-6090 WESTERN MANAGER Robert S. Pack (4151327-6090 SOUTHWEST MANAGER Marty Navarro 4000 MacArthiir Blvd., Suite 3000 Newport Beach. CA 92660 (714)851-1593 TELEMARKETING MANAGER Lisa Kunln (212)505-3588 Enjoy a world of learning and leisure with the Sakota Model SC-100 Color CRT Monitor Model SC-100 accepts a composite video signal; has a modem streamlined design; includes an audio speaker and an earphone jack for privacy of operation and is compatible with fine popular personal computers. Your SAKATA monitor will enhance your pic- ture comparable to the most expensive computers available. Improve your education and increase your fun with SAKATA CRT DISPLAY MONITORS .... "We Promise Performance",.. Also available: Model SC-200 13" RGB high resolution COLOR CRT MONITOR. Model SC-300 13" RGB super high resolution COLOR CRT MONITOR. Model SG-1000 12" monochrome high resolution CRT MONITOR (green). Model SA-1000 12" monochrome high resolution CRT MONITOR (amber). SAKATA CRT MONITORS are available wher- ever personal computers are sold or write for tech- nical and illustrated literature and prices. SAKATA U.S.A. CORPORATION 651 Bonnie Lane, Elk Grove Village, niinois 60007/(312)593-3211 800-323-6647 (outside Illinois) "Serving industry worldwide since 1896" HowMintoudi KoalM ToudiTablet puts the controls atyour fingertips. laint the screen with colorful graphics or play lightning- fast games with just a touch of your finger The KoalaPad'Touch Tablet makes using your com- I puter more fun than ever before. ■*d^ Just moving your finger across Jrthe special touch-sensitive surface ^^^controls graphics, game ^^, commands, and much ^ ^ more. It's a great way to get the most out of your computer while you just sit back and I V i \wlhy()iifcon^uter. relax. The KoakPad fits comfortably in the. palm of your hand for easy use And once you have it in Dancing Bear" brings a funny, furry cabaret star right into ynur home ivherc your own programmed per- formances will win applause every lime. your hands, it's hard to put down. That's because, the KoalaPad does C much more than joysticks,^ paddlecontrollersorthe "mouse." Each KoalaPad set is packaged with a KoalaWare'" graphics program* for creating beautiiil. high-resolution graphics right on the screen. spider Eater" the game that attacks musical eilucation with n I'onicious appetite, taking a bite out of the task of teaming Ihe musicai scale. And that's just the beginning. There's a iill line of KoalaWare pro- grams to choose from with a perfect Logo Design Master'" uses computerized graphic design to help children and adults learn the basics of program - tning and prepare for more advanced applications. combination of entertainment and education. Add a touch of excitement today to your Applef Atari® Commodore® orlBM^computen See the KoalaPad Touch Tablet at the computer store nearest you. To locate the dealer in your area, call toll free 800-227-6703. (In Califomia, 800-612-7979.) (^tioala Technologies CorpDralion We make computing more personal'." SpelUcopter" takes off into the world of spelling with aerial acrobatics to challenge young students. 'Software included wiih Touch Tablet rarlcs vHh computer type. SoaliiPai KoalaViarf, l^ffj IJcsifyi Mister, Spider Ealer, 2nd l>ancinR Bwr ar« Irade- marb of Knala Technologies CflrpnratlDn. Spellicopler IS a trademark of ik^ifinft'ate. Inc. KoaiaTechnobgies Corporation, 3100 Patrick Henry Drive. Santa Clara, Ca. 95050 UNICORN TREASURES MAKE LEARNING A TM PLEASURE Ages 5-13 Each Unicorn educational game teaches as it entertains. All of our treasures have been developed at The Computer Learning Center for Children. Written by edu- cational experts who make them fun, our games feature colorful, high re- solution graphics, multiple difficulty levels, beautiful music, and are completely user friendly with simple on-screen instructions. You'll be delighted to use them year after year as your child's educational needs change. Look for our growing line of quality educational games. You won't know what you're missing until you've. seen a Unicorn. Available at your local dealer or call or write Unicorn for our free brochure App*e- Alafi. Commodore 64 and IB^^■PC are Irademarks of Apple Computer Corp.. Atari Inc.. Commodore Electronics LTD and International Business Machines Corp. rtspectitfely. Copynghr 1 983 by Unicorn Software Company. All rights reserved. Available for Apple, Atari, Commodore 64 and IBM-PC Computers. Disk versions only. UNICORN SOFTWARE"^ 1775 East Tropicana Avenue #8 Las Vegas, Nevada 89109 <702) 798-2727 or (702) 798-5990 FAMILY COMPUTING SCHOLASTIC INC. CORPORATi Maurice R. Robinson, founder. 1895-1982 I'HESIDENT. CHIEF EXECUTJVE OFFICiiH AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOAKD Richard Robinson VtCECHAlKMAN OF THE BOARD EMEUITUS Jack K. Llpperi NATIOHAL ADVISORY COUNCIL Dr. Sidney P. Marland. Jr., Chairman, former Superintendent of Schools and U.S. Commissioner of Education Dr. Gregor>' Anrig. President, Educational Testing Service Elaine Banks, Past President. National Association of Elementary School Principals Brother James Kearney. F.M.S.. Superintendent of Schools. New York Archdiocesan School System Dr, Lola Jane May. Mathertiailcs Consultant. Winnetka. Illinois, Public Schools Dr. Wilson Riles, Ibrtner Superlniendcnt of Public Instruction. Slate Deparment of Education, California Dr. Richard Ruopp. President. Bank Street College of Education Dr. Robert Scanlon, former Secretary of Education. State Department of Education, Pennsylvania FAMILY COMPUTING IISSN 0738-6079) Is pub- lished monthly by Scholastic Inc., 730 Broad- way, NY. m' 10003. Subscriptions: In the U,S, and possessions, 12 Issues for SI 7,97: outside the U,S. add S6 (surface mall) and S24 (air malll- Office of publication. Box 2700. Monroe, Ohio. 45O50-2700, Application to Mall at Sec- ond Class Postage Rates is pending at Monroe, Oh Id. 45050-9998 and additional offices. POST- Mi\STtCR; Send address changes and notice of undelivered copies to FAMILY COMPUTING. P.O. Bo.t 251 1. Boulder, Colorado 80322, Print- ed in U.S.A. Copyright >:: 1983 by Scholastic Inc. All rights reserved. BASF QUALIMETRICFLEXYDISKS^ BUILT FOR ETERNITY-WARRANTED FOR A LIFETIME. BASF Qualimetrk FlexyDisks* offer you more... an extraordinary new lifetime warranty.* The BASF Quaii- metric standard is a dramatic new international standard of quality in magnetic media. ..insurance that your most vital information will be secure for tomorrow when you enter it on BASF FlexyDisks today. We can offer this warranty with complete confidence because the Qualimetric standard reflects a con- tinuing BASF commitment to perfec- tion... a process which begins with materials selection and inspection, and continues through coating, pol- ishing, lubricating, testing, and 100% error-free certification. Built into our FlexyDisk jacket is a unique two-piece liner This BASF feature traps damaging debris away from the media surface, and creates extra space in the head access area, insur- ing optimum media-to-head align- ment. The result is a lifetime of outstanding performance. When your information must be secure for the future, look for the distinctive BASF package with the Qualimetric seal. Call 800-343- 4600 for the name of your nearest supplier. trv' v-t^a't-t' j-'a ..x ENTER TOMORROW ON BASF TODAY •Conrdff BAif lor wiri^nty details. © !Sai. BASF Systems Corporslion, Bedlord.MA SOPHISTICATED SOFTWARE OF AMERICA- PRESENTS GRAFIX - ARTIST" (Commodore 64' version) THE LATEST IN EDUCATIONAL GRAPHICS SOFTWARE DESIGNED WITH THE CONSUMER IN MIND CREATE EXTRAORD[N/\RY COLOR - GRAPHICS USING THE: • Joystick Mode • Program Mode • Program lo Picture Utility |for your basic or mactiine-language programs) GRAFIX- ARTIST" provides comprehensive • Reference Card • Introduction • Help Screen • Demo's NO COMPUTER EXPERIENCE IS NECESSARY Children, parents, artists, educators will enjoy the ease-of-use and options GRAFK-ARTIST* provides, - COMING SOON - GRAFK-PRINTER- and GRAFIX-DESIGNER" Dealer and Distributor Inquiries Inuitcd Kins cj( Prulsls. PA 1'406 (2151265-2277 m Rri^tctitd TTtdffnAriu oi Cammodtiir Buimvu Hachinn. [nc TEXAS INSTRUMENTS 99/4A FLIGHT SIMULATOR Learn to fly with the Dow— 3 Gazelle, a real- istic IFR simulation of a typical 4-place pri- vate plane* It is not a game. A manual with 30 pages of text plus 7 figures helps the novice learn to fly. Experienced pilots will enjoy flying the ILS approach. Response time under I sec average. Display shows full panel (10 dials and II light^si and indi- cates position of runway for landing. Real- istic sound effects. See reviews in Jan 83 99'er and Jun 83 .AOPA Pilot. Requires joy- stick. Cassette, $30. EDITOR/ASSEMBLER The Dow E/A turns your Tl into an assem- bly language machine. For use with Tl's Mini Memory Module. Fast and convenient. Allows use of entire R.A.M. Manual includes sample program with detailed explanations. See review in Aug 83 99'er- Cassette. S25. ASSEMBLY LANGUAGE PRIMER Teaches Tl assembly language in step by step fashion for Basic programmers. Explains con- cepts In detail with many enamples. This is what you have been waiting for if you haven't been able to understand the Tl Edlt- or/Assetnbler manual. S20 (Dow E/A and PRIMER S40) For a<fdltional information, wriEe or call 412-521-9385. To order, send check or MO U.S. funds: JOHN T. DOW 6360 Rosemoor Street Pittsburgh, Pa. 15217 Postage to U.S. and Canada included. (If foreign, add U.S. S2.1 Pa, residents add 5% 12 FAMILY COMPUTING EDITOR'S NOTE LET US HELP YOU PROGRAM SOME FUN INTO YOUR HOLIDAYS Each Christmas season brings mul- titudes of new computers into Amer- ican homes. And with the computer comes a lot ofjoy — and a lot of con- fusion and frustration. After the boxes are opened and the system as- sembled, a chorus of voices can be heard saying, "Now what?" in every issue of family computing we tr\' to say "Here's what!" We fea- ture stories of families using their computers in countless ways, but our special gifts to our readers — ev- ery month — arc our programs. Be- cause we've chosen to focus all our attention on how families use com- puters at home, we're able to tie In our programs with popular activities that are taking place each month. Joey Latimer, who writes many of our holiday programs, is busy in his California mountain cabin writing fall programs In the spring and spring programs in the fall. Aware that many of our readers are just starting out. we try to keep most of our programs short enough so they don't try even a novice's pa- tience. And, to make it as easy as possible lo key in our program list- ings, we include versions for all of the most popular computer brands sold for home use. Our computer lab is always busy, filled with programmers working un- der the direction of Lance Paavola, our technical editor. Each program goes through several rewrites until it's as concise as possible. Lance's standards for excellent programming never falter, which means that as our readers start tr>'ing their hand at programming themselves, they start with excellent models to emulate. So, as you try our Christmas Tree program (p. 1 10 ), create your own wrapping paper (p. 128 }, or ponder over our puzzle (p. 140), remember that as early as last summer pro- grammers were humming the back- ground music that goes with our tree, testing the paper programs, and trj'ing their hand at the puzzle. Another gift to you is this month's cover by renowned cartoonist George Booth. Each month his special hu- mor will be found in the pages of FAMILY COMPUTING, under ihe heading "BASIC Booth." We hope you're smiling at your computer this holiday season, and at some of the fun and success we'll be bringing you issue after issue. Meanwhile, all of us at family complt- IN'G wish all of you a wonderful time computing. CLAUDIA COHL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF This Christmas, Atari and Commodore* owners will go out of their minds. It'll take about 30 seconds. Because once you boot a Datamost game on your Atari home computer, or your Commodore 64, you'll come face to screen with the most mind-blasting games ever. And what better time to go out of your mind than Christmas? Our Music Will Have You Hearing Things. Going out of your mind never sounded so good. Because now our games have music. You heard right. Music. Original Music. Through out. And scored just for our newest releases. You'll go nuts over it. Our Graphics Will Have You Seeing Things. You and everybody else. Because our games are so great- how great are they? -they're so great you'll want to play them again and again and again. And then your friends will go bonkers over them. THE TAIL OF BETA LYRAE.^"* Changes as yaupiay. Unpredict- able. Impossible to master, (No one hasJ) DATAMOSl And they'll want to play. And then your family will want to play. And then total strangers off the street will want to play and . . . Mind-blowing arcade-quality action like this makes it one mad world, pal. We'll Torment You Right From The Start. No time to settle down and get comfy The tension begins building the moment you boot the game. Terrific screen titles tease you with the game's objective, scenario, characters. And while you wait, hand twitch- ing over the Joystick, you'll find out what planet you're on. What the fuss is all about. Why you're involved. And perhaps of singular importance to you personally, how to keep from being obliterated. So get ready to get the most out of your mind. The most out of our minds: By getting the most out of ours. Datamosl. Inc. . 8tH3 Fullbrijjht Ave. . Chatsworlh. CA 91311. (213) 709-1202 Atari is n trariemark of Atari Computer. *Comm()dure 64 is ii I rii(k'm.irk cif Conimtxlore Bus: ness Machires. Inc. TM Reffstered Trademark of DalamosS cosmic tl.\m-:l^. Four games in one. Four times the challenge! Incredible graphics. .MO.\'STER SMASH. "' Deathly strategy, \fa$h the tttonsiers.' Let the visitors tive^ NIGHTRAIDERS.'^ Straff a city under siege tcilh 3D angler! selective firing' rovndabovt:" Sharpens your shoot 'em up skills. 24 different game screens. Ha b it-fortni ngJ COHEf^'S TOWERS." You 're the ma ilboy in a big city skyscraper. Work your way to the top. MR, ROBOT.'' Screens scream uith color, action and sound! Design your own screen St too- BEHIND THE SCREENS PEOPLE, NEWS, ANP TRENPS EDITED BY JOHN WALLACE Everybody, On-Line! Computer Educalitn Assistance Act sponstr Frank Laulenberg. The so-called computer revolution has taken the country by storm, and while many sectors of our society have managed to stay afloat and arc Indeed prospering because of it. oth- ers have been left behind and arc somewhat adrift. Recognizing this "accessibility gap," Senator Frank R. Lautcnbcrg (D-NJI introduced a bill in September to ensure that every- one tias proper and equal exposure to the new technologies. Titled the Computer Education As- sistance Act, the bill calls for Si 50 million to be spent annually over the next four years, for the purpose of helping schools plan and implement computer use. Lautenberg says that "half the bill's funds are designated for poorer districts." This would bal- ance what he sees as an inequity of access between schools in suburbs and those in cities, such as his own Newark, Paterson, and Camden. If you've got a good bite-sized piece of computer-related news involving people, trends, or innovations, let's hear it. We will pay S25Jor each itern we publish. Write to Behind the Screens, c/o family coHPi.TiNG. 730 Broadway. New York. NY 10003. Lautenberg emphasized the impor- tance of the planning stage in schools' introduction of computers in the curriculum. "Clearly, comput- er education is not a substitute for the three Rs," he said. "Computers are more like pencils than books. As educators come to view computers... as tools, they will begin using them in exciting and mind-expanding ways, which is their true promise." Lautenberg can appreciate the ad- vantage of being well informed of and well adjusted to the computer age. Thirty years ago he and two col- leagues started a basic bookkeeping firm. By the time he left the compa- ny last year, it had grown into a multimillion dollar computer-based data-processing firm employing over 16.000 people in offices across America and In four other countries. The Senator is concerned chiefly with the issue of exposure to the po- tential of computers. "A report in The New York Times said that in Westfield, Nevv Jersey, 50 percent of the students had contact with com- puters," Lautenberg said. "But when you get lo poorer districts, you see that kids don't have them at home, they don't have them at sciiools. We're hoping that this bill will show people who don't have the exposure, that there's nothing to fear, and that there's more to computers than just games." The bill requires that schools make their facilities avail- able for adult education during nonschool hours. "There are very few jobs that won't have some sort of computer interface," he says. As for his own family, Lautenberg says that all of his three children have put the computer to extensive use. "My youngest son is 15. His sis- ters use computers a great deal at work, but he's still at the stage where he spends too much time playing games." he told family COMPUTING. Says Lautenberg, "We're just try- ing to show that this isn't like a slide rule arithmetic device. The computer's not a fancy engineering tool. A lot of people in the work force are afraid that you have to have a college degree to work these things. That's just not true." IWo-Computer Households The two-computer household may become the latest trend in {he rapid- ly changing world of consumer elec- tronics. Like autos before them, computers are proving invaluable for many families. And for many, even computers in tandem are becoming a necessity, according to the results of an 1 1.000-family survey conduct- ed by the Illinois-based research iirm, Talmis. "It's not only that these families arc moving up to better computers," reports Talmis researcher Jeanne Dictsch. "In many cases, families arc buying the same computer again." As many as one out of six computer- using families plans to purchase a second one within the next year. The reasons var\'. according to Dictsch. For one thing, it seems that use of computers has increased dra- matically among preteens. They're frequently using the family comput- er for school work. And they're find- ing that more and more software is becoming available for them to choose from. Teens are discovering the advantages of word processing and. according to Talmis Marketing Research Director Hank Butler, fam- ily-managing mothers arc drawn to the home-accounting possibilities in numbers larger than analysts had initially anticipated. Many families arc clearly still test- ing the limits and potential of their new machines. But before long, if Mom. Dad. and the kids all continue to itch for a turn, the two-computer household may be as common as the two-car garage. » 14 FAMILY COMPUrrNC WHILE OTHER COMPUTER COMPANIES ARE BUSY SETTING NEW PRICES, SPECTRAVIDEO IS BUSY SETTING NEW STANDARDS. MSX"* and LOCO™: TWO more reasons why Spectravideo is leading the way in Personal Computers. White price wars and confusion reign ail around us. Spectravideo goes about its business, setting stan- dards by whicti oil other personai computers will soon be judged. MSX and LOGO are the two latest ex- amples of tiow Spectravideo is rocking-ard restioping -ttie personai computer industry. MSX AND LOGO. It is now history that, on June 15 1983. Spectra- video. Inc. joined with most ol Japan's largest electronics firms to launch MSX: The most far-reaching personal computer standard in history. MSX is the name given to a specific hardware./software corv (iguration that mokes product Interchangeability possible. While Spectravideo is proud to p>ar1icipate In MSX, we are even prouder of this fact; It was our own SV-3 18 computer that was used as a prototype (or the MSX design! There are two important ospecfs to this. First, all future MSX hardware-i.e. computers, peripherals, appliances-will be based on several key design elements o( the SV-318. What does this mean to you. the consumer? A great deal, because when you buy an SV-3 1 8. you will not only be able to use all o( Spectravideo s own software and hard- wore-you'll also be able to take advantage of all the remorkoble new equipment that will be coming from other MSX participants. In addition, ttie softwore aspect of MSX wos largety inspired by the software built into the SV-3t8. From the outset. Spectravideo offered built-in Micro- soft BASIC as its resident interpreter. Now. Microsoft also makes a LOGO program compatible with the SV.318. It was Spectravideos Microsoft BASIC LOGO that fwlped to make MSX possible. Another standard ttiat Spectravideo con take credit for is the built-in Joystick Cursor Control Built right into ttie SV console, this control is alwoys at fingertips and is much easier and (aster to use ttxin extemol joysticks or conventional editing controls. Certain engineering elements that helped to make this built-in control possible have also been incor- porated into MSX OTHER STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE. While these are the computer standardizations that Spectravideo helped to initiate, they by no means represent the whole SV-3 1 8 story. This remorkoble computer has also established many standards of excellence that other personal com- puters now aspire to: ■ Bultt-ln Super txtended Mlerotott BASIC-Makes the $V-3 18 the Hist truly programmable atfordable compuleri m txtrooramarY MemorY-32K ROM expandable to 96K. arx} 32K HAM expandable (via bank switctiing)to an amoBng 2S6K. m Unparalleled txpandablllfy-A lull supporting system ol 14 peripheials. including our new Cotecovision'*''' Game Adapter. 7SIot Expander Unit, floppy Disk Drive, Data Cassette. Interlace Cartridges, etc. m More Available SoHware-Buill-in CPM compatibility gives you immediate access to over 3000 existing so/t. ware programs. Plus, you can utilUe Spectravideo's own fine sottwaie iibrory- m Advanced Grxipliics Capablllties-n>e SV-3IB otters W colors in higti resolution, and more importantty. 32 pro- grammable sprites ttKil allow tremendous control of movable screen objects. m Many ottier tine featuresSuctr as ZSOA Microprocessor with last (3.6) mlerrKJl ctocJk. top-kX3ding cartridae slot. lO user-proa^ammable special /unction keys. 3 sound ctKirmels (8 octaves per ctiannel!). low prolile and attractive styling. Computer systems you'll grow into, not out of. comp»t>btr w>fiw«r« stMnttrd led BASIC ts a tradsmsrk ol Mtci FOR UNDER $300. FORKEYBOAf?DC»4Ly SPECTRA VIDEO !NC. 39 W, 37in Slreet. Nbw Vofk. N.V 10018 BEHIND THE SCREENS Computer Intruders, Under Thumisi The Finx 401 may help reduce criminal csfflpvler capers. Computer raiders are the scourge of the information age. But hackers who gain unauthorized access to computerized files may have finally met their match. The developer of an extraordinary "fingerprint scanning device" claims that he has a solution that will allow institutions relying on computerized files and networking to put a lid on the electronic intru- sions wreaking havoc with their sys- tems. The manufacturer is a compa- ny based In White Plains, New York, called Fingermatrix. The product is a small peripheral that hooks up to the computer and electronically scans fingerprints. The would-be user places a finger into the device and keys in a personal identification code. Only those whose fingerprints and ID codes have been registered with a particular computerized net- work would be permitted access to its information or services. It all sounds like something out of a James Bond movie or an episode of "Get Smart," but, in fact, the Fin.x 401, as it's called, has been in devel- opment since 1976. It's been tested and approved for use by the U.S. Air Force to prevent trespass into a com- puter used for controlling strategic aircraft command. Also, at First In- terstate Bank of California and Chase Manhattan Bank in New York City, they have been installed to pre- vent thefts in their electi-onic funds transmission services. The device was originated to han- dle large systems — for in.stance. "(banking) situations in which the average transaction involves from a half million to a million dollars," ex- plains Fingermatrix Product Man- ager Rich Kjeldson. But this sum- mers widely publicized penetration of important computer records at the Sloan-Kettering Institute for Cancer Research in New York and a nuclear weapons lab in New Mexico have dramatized the importance of expanding its application to prevent "raiding" taking place from the home. With computerized home banking on the rise and the use of popular telecommunications net- works such as The Source growing steadily, home computer users will want to secure their own records and information against roving elec- tronic intruders. At about 87,000 a piece, the de- vices are still prohibitively expensive. Kjeldson says that a home version is likely "to develop when the need dic- tates that increased volume of sales would enable us to reduce costs for the unit." There has to be some way to pre- vent curious computerniks from roaming at large in records where they don't belong. Finx 401 prom- ises to be one way for the computer industry' to put the troublesome raider under its thumb. Apples and Oranges Don^'t Mix Apple Computer Company has been waging war against a different kind of alien invader — Apple-like comput- ers advertised to run with most Ap- ple software, imported primarily from Taiwan, and selling at half, sometimes a third, the price. (The company has already put its foot down regarding the native-born, Philadelphia-manufactured Franklin. A federal appeals court ruled in Sep- tember that the makers of Franklin computers breached sensitive copy- right laws by copying part of Apple's operating system into their comput- er's built-in memory.) Now with the help of U.S. Cus- toms, the company is attempting to halt the proliferation of incoming Apple "work-alikes." which go by such curious names as the Apollo, the Orange Plus Two. the Golden II, and (ironically) the Lemon, Accord- ing to Karen Robinson, a superviso- ry Import specialist with the U.S. Customs Service in Los Angeles, fakes frequently filter into the coun- try via the mails or Europe, or are carried in directly from the Far East, by unsuspecting business people and tourists deceived by fast-talking dealers. An attorney for Apple esti- mated that more than 1,500 imita- tions have been confiscated so far. "Typically, what happens is that someone who is traveling abroad will spend time shopping around for goods commonly known to be sold cheaper in the East," Robinson ex- plains. "In little back alleys there are entire rows of shops selling these counterfeit computers." With the taste of a bargain on their lips, un- informed travelers purchase the cheaper Apple work-alike, only to re- turn home either to have their mer- chandise confiscated by customs of- ficials, or finding that damaged parts are irreplaceable and unser- viceable. "Counterfeit dealers are mislead- ing buyers," says one attorney repre- senting Apple. "Dealers are saying that no, there's no problem with U.S. Customs." On the contrary, be- cause Apple has registered its com- puter with the Customs Service, any reproductions are confiscated when detected by officials. Carriers of the counterfeits are not reimbursed, "The penalty is the confiscation," re- ports Robinson. Taiwan, where most of the fakes originate, is trying to prevent expor- tation of these bad Apples. But ac- cording to Robinson, attempts to stem the tide of computers flowing out of the country have been largely unsuccessful, Robinson explained that counter- feits do not necessarily resemble the original machines. It's Just that they use the same operating system and machine code. As for whether or not IBM PC, Atari, or Commodore computers also have their counterfeit counterparts, Robinson says: "There are other computers being counterfeited, but we can only enforce valid U.S. copy- rights which have been registered with U.S. Customs. "I believe the IBM PC is being counterfeited, " she speculates, "be- cause of Its huge market. Anything that popular would be counterfeited." 1 6 FAMILY COMPUTING FAMILY COMPUTING is a highly practical and en- joyable gift— that keeps on bringing pleasure throughout the year. Within 1 0 years, the number of American i^ouseholdswith home computers is expected to reach 30 million! That's why we created Family Computing. Month after month, Family Com- puting offers useful features and articles like these... Rating the Software • Building Your Computer Console for $25 • The Little ComputerThat Could • Computer Baseball • Keeping Up with Your Children • Two Weeks at Computer Camp • Visicalc Helps You Pick a College, Plan a Trip • Care and Feeding of Your Com- puter • PLUS, everything you need to know about home computers. You will receive handsome greet- ing cards so you can personally announce your gifts. (After De- cember 1 St, cards will be sent in your name). IT'S THE PERFECT GIFT FOR ANYONE WITH A HOME COMPUTER. FamilyComputing, the timelynew maga- zine from Scholastic, provides plenty of new, practical, educational, recreational, and fun ideas for using the home computer. irSTHEPERFEaGIFTFORANYONETHINKlNGOFBUY ING A HOME COMPUTER FOR HOME USE. Written in plain English, this non-technical magazine will take the confusion out of the widearray of hardware and softw/are that's available Lots of hard-hitting detail on what's new . , . what's best . . . what it cost3 ... and how people use it. IT DELIVERS THE BENEFIT OF SCHOLASTIC. For over 60 years. Scholastic has madelearning easy and fun. Today it is a major force in teaching computer literacy. Now Scholastic closes the "computer gap" with this new magazine. IT'S A GIFT OF THE FUTURE. Family Computing helps everyone developtheskiilsvitalforthis new computer age. Each issue brings new challenges and suggestions on subjects such as improving school performance . . . careers . . . home use . . . businesses, plus games, puzzles and fun for the whole family YOU'LL GET SPECIAL SAVINGS, TOO. A perfect gift--and at a perfect price. The first gift, or your own subscription is just $1 5. 97, a savings of $7.43 offthe cover price. Each additional gift is just $ 1 3.97— so the more gifts you give, the more you save. And we'll even bill you next year if you prefer! PLUS AN EXTRA FREE GIFT! Give a gift and get a gift! With your order, you'll also receive a copy of our COMPUTER DICTIONARY This illustrated, easy-to-understand reference guide contains over 500 terms and explanations, written to help everyone develop a working knowledge of the computer. Available only from Scholastic, the COMPUTER DiaiONARY is ship- ped directly to you upon receipt of payment. If order card is missing, please mail your holiday gift order to: FAMILY COMPUTING • P.O. Box 2512 • Boulder, Colorado 80321 Can a computer make you cry? Right now, no one knows. This is partly because many would consider the very idea trivolous. But it's also because whoever successfully ans- wers this question must first have answered several others. Why do we cry? Why do we laugh, or love, or smile? What are the touchstones of our emotions? Until now, the people who asked such questions tended not to be the same people who ran software companies. Instead, they were writers, filmmakers, painters, musi- cians.They were, in the traditional sense, artists. 4f Were about to change that tradition, The name of our company is Electronic Arts. Software WORTHY OF THE MINDS THAT U oE IT. We are a new association of electronic artists united by a com- mon goal — to fulfill the enormous potential of the personal computer In the short term, this means transcending its present use as a facili- tator of unimaginative tasks and a medium for blasting aliens. In the long term, hov/ever, we can expect a great deal more. These are wondrous machines we have created, and in them can be seen a bit of their makers. It is as if we had invested them with the image of our minds. And through them, we are learning more and more about ourselves. We learn, for instance, that we are more entertained by the involve- ment of our imaginations than by passive viewing and listening.We learn that we are better taught by experience than by memorization. And we learn that the traditional distinctions — the ones that are made between art and entertainment and education — don't always apply. TOWARD A LANGUAGE OF DREAMS. In short, we are finding that the computer can be more than just a processor of data. It is a communications medium: an interactive tool that can bring peoples thoughts and feelings closer together, perhaps closer than ever before. And while fifty years from now, its creation may seem no more important than the advent of motion pictures or television, there is a chance it wiU mean something more. Something along the lines of a universal language of ideas and emotions. Something like a smile. "^ 'The first publications of Electronic Arts are now available. We suspect you'll be hearing a lot about them. Some of them are games like you've never seen before, that get more out of your computer than other games ever have. Others are harder to categorize — and we like that. Watch us. WeVe providing a special environment for talented, independent software artists. It's a supportive environment, in which big ideas are given room to grow. And some of America's most re- spected software artists are beginning to take notice. We think our current work reflects this very special commitment. And though we are few in number today and apart from the main- stream of the mass software market- place, we are confident that both time and vision are on our side. Join us. We see farther Electronic Arts TOLEARNMOREofnuoBTpoumg numhfTofada-arKitonceii'eafrte •joutfa^mlicampmer store efioituiaK izlxtnmcATudiakrniaretyixw. writs ii\iii ^."i Campus Drive. San Malett, I :,iJi/tmir WDJor cailfWJ OT7J?I. Software artists? "im not so'^^ sure there ate any software artists yet!' says Bill Budge ."We've got to earn that dtle." Picmtcd here are a few people who have cotnc as dose to earning it as anyone we know, That's Mr. Budge hitnself, creator of PINBALL CONSTRUCTION SET, at the upper right.To his left are Anne Westiall and Jon Freeman who, along with their colleagues at Free Fail Associates, cnrated ARCHON and MURDER ON THEZINDERNEUF Left of them is Dan Bunten of Ozark Softscape, the firm that witjte M.U.LETo Dan's left are Mike Abbot (top) and Matt Alexander (bottom), authors of HARD HAT MACK. In the center is John Field, creator of AXIS ASSASSIN and THE LAST GLAD- IATOR, David Maynard, lower right, is the man responsible for WORMS? When you see what they've accom- plished, we think youll agree with us that they can call themselves whatever they want. HOME-SCHOOL CONNECTION TAKE A LESSON FROM TEACHERS Choose Educational Software the Way They Do BY MINDY PANTIEL AND BECKY PETERSEN Can a computer in the home live up to all the boasts of manufacturers? Can a microcomputer serve as a storehouse of knowledge? Can it really enable families to discover new solutions to old problems and educa- tional opportunities they hadn't imagined? Can it help children get better grades, provide a wonderful tool for helping with homework and writing term papers, and make it easy to pick up a foreign language or even write home-grown computer programs? IT ALL DEPENDS ON SOFTWARE You bet! Don't doubt those adver- tising claims. A computer in your home can be transformed into a valuable educational tool for anyone from preschoolers to grandparents — when outfitted with high-quality educational software. But, where does the family with a toddler ready to identify colors, a six-year-old be- ginning reader, a junior high math nut, or a college-bound high school student find the best cdui;ational software? Good educational software for all ages and abilities does exist, but you'll have to do some home- work to find it. Most local computer stores carry only five or six different lines of edu- cational software at most, but a MINDV PANTLEL and BECKY PETERSEN, HOW partners in a communications company, haue between them experience In Journalism, education, and computers. They are contributors to Teaching and Computers and Etecironic Learning (both published by Scholastic Inc.). quick examination of the most re- cent School Microtoare Directory re- veals that as many as 200 manufac- turers now have 2,000 educational software packages currently on the market. In order to effectively dis- cern the good from the bad, take a lesson from the teachers in your schools. Follow their example in finding and then judging the merits of educational software packages. WHERE TO LEARN ABOUT eOOD SOFTWARE Begin by looking at in-depth re- views of educational software written by objective reviewers, preferably in- dividuals with educational creden- tials and computer classroom experi- ence. If you want to go beyond reviews in a consumer publication (such as FAMILY COMPUTING), your school district reference book collec- tion should include such education- al publications as School Microware Revieiv. Courseware Report Card. MicwSlFT Revteivs, or EPIE Micro- Courseiuare PRO/FILES. Or you could encourage your public library or local computer dealer to place a subscription to at least one of them. You might also want to consult an educational computing magazine, such as Electronic Learning or Teaching and Computers (both pub- lished by Scholastic Inc.). 20 FAMILY COMPUTING THE BEST REASON FOR HAVING A HOME COMPUTER. Your children . , ,to give them a headstart with computers. That's why we created the Early Games series for them. We're educators as well as computer specialists. We create games that teach children important skills. There are five programs in the Early Games series Early Games for Young Children is a set of nine entertaining activities for children ZVz to 6. They can work with numbers and letters and create colorful pictures. MatchmaKer uses shapes, sizes, directions and colors to help children develop reading readiness skills. Children ages 5 to 12 can learn to play melodies with Early Games Music Piece of Cake turns math problems into, well, a piece of cake. And Fraction Factory takes the work out of fractions. Early Games feature multiple activities, easy to use picture menus, and colorful graphics. The games are fun, children love to play them I Thafs why they learn from them. And that's the best reason for having a home computer for the name of your nearest dealer call 800-328-1225 counterpoint software, inc. 4005 west sixty-fifth street • minneapalis. mn 55435 [612] 92S-78BB • CBQOl 328-1283 HOME-SCHOOL CONNECTION If computers are used for Instruc- tion in j'Our local schools, don't over- look the teachers as a good resource for locating appropriate educational software. At the elementary level, the teacher can tell you what Is being used in the classroom and what to look for to best help your child, be it reinforcing or enriching the school curriculum or remediating weak- nesses. In junior high school, tracking down this type of information be- comes more difficult because com- puter applications vary widely de- pending on the subject area. Get teenagers to narrow down their in- terests or weak areas first; then ask teachers of those subjects for their recommendations. Whether your source of informa- tion is a local computer store, a pub- lished review, or a teacher, the next step is to determine if the package is worth the dollar investment. Just like teachers, parents need to be- come informed educational software cvaluators. They face the same situa- tion in judging the merits of educa- tional software, the bottom line al- ways being whether or not the program provides children with a valuable, well-designed learning ex- perience that utilizes the power of the computer. EDUCATORS' STANDARDS Most educational software is de- signed for one of the foHowing major purposes: to provide drill-and-prac- tice of basic skills; to introduce a subject to a learner through a tutori- al program: or to model real-life situ- ations through simulations. A fairly new category, referred to as "fun learning" software, allows students more freedom to explore and learn at the same time and is generally less formal. In all cases, the important issue is whether learning is en- hanced by use of the computer. Lets take a look at some stan- dards used by educators to deter- mine if a software package being considered is of high quality. Par- ents can apply these standards effec- tively with a few modifications for home use. Hardware Requirements. Ef the software you arc about to consider has not been designed for the com- puter you have, keep looking. A pro- gram written for the Atari 800 wiU not work on the Apple lie unless the EDUCATIONAL SOFTWARE TEST Directions Yes No D n Yes No D □ D D D D D D Yes No D n Yes No D □ n n D n Yes No D □ D □ D D D a D n Yes No D D D D □ D D n ;: Place a check mark in the box that you think best answers the question. Hardware Requirements Will this software run on our computer? DecumenfotSen 1. Is each program option summarized? 2. Are step-by-step instructions included for each option? 3. Are sample screens and commands used to illustrate how the program works? 4. Is a troubleshooting section Included? Educational Validity Has the program been tested and validated widely? Content 1 . Is the program written for the age and grade level of my youngster? 2. Is it challenging without being too difficult? 3. Does it blend with the school curriculum? Presentation 1 . Are the beginning instructions clear? 2. Arc additional instructions included on each screen? 3. Is a cursor used to tell when and where to answer? 4. Are the computer responses nonjudgmental and patient? 5. Can the child get help if needed? Motivation 1. Arc the graphics fun? 2. Do they motivate rather than distract? 3. Is sound used only in a positive way? 4. Are games nonviolent? publisher has developed two differ- ent versions, one for each machine. Programs that work on the school's computers will not necessarily work on your computer at home and vice versa. You may decide to purchase the same type of hardware the school is using, especially if your lo- cal district has made provisions for a lending library of software. Documentation. For home use. check to make sure the written ma- terials have a summary of the vari- ous program options and an instruc- tion section that takes you step-by-step through each one. Com- plete documentation should also in- clude sample screens and com- mands, as well as a troubleshooting section. Teachers will go one step further, looking for more complete educational goals and objectives, a technical section, and support mate- rials in the form of worksheets and suggested classroom activities. Educational Validity. You will find that most educational software packages come complete with a sales pitch, claiming how much children love the program. That's not enough. Check to see how well the program has been tested. This infor- mation, if it exists, usually appears in the documentation. Test data from an entire school district or sev- eral districts is much better than rave reviews from a single teacher or, worse yet. a computer program- mer who very likely has no back- ground in education. Content. In some ways, buying software for children is similar to choosing a game or a book. First and foremost, you need to make cer- tain that the software is written at an appropriate age and grade level for your youngster. For example, software for young children that pre- sents a large amount of printed in- struction on the screen would be In- appropriate for that age level. And some educational packages claim to meet the needs of an extremely wide range of ages. Be skeptical of soft- ware that says it can be used from first grade through high school. A program that is too difficult or a reading level that is too advanced for young children will only lead to frus- tration and confusion. And with an older child, a program that offers no challenge or that progresses too slowly will bring about boredom, and chances are it won't be used. Presentation. Good educational programs should have clear instruc- tions both at the beginning of the 22 FAMILY COMPUTING m . ':'■- . ■ ' . k .-.--.L'^vilV-- ■■■..', J " ^^ . .^ 1 A 1 ■ 1 1 r T' THEY CALL HIM RS"GANS Name: A Home: School: Hobbies: ^t;* ^- "Math Maze is neat because vou do more than just add and subtract numbers all tiie time. You've got to find them first. And then get there before you get caught. "It's got real good graphics. I can even change the background color. And make the math as diallengmg as I want. "There's lots of mazes, too. But the best thing is, I can make up my own. So when my fiiends come over, I've always got some- thmg new." DESIGNWARE ON CREATIVITY. Children learn the most through creative problem solving. That's why Math Maze, like so many DesigiWare games, is an open-ended exercise that challenges and nourishes young minds. In a way thaf s a lot of fun. DesignWare programs encourage kids to draw on something they just happen to have an unlimited supply of- imagination! ApjjlellinrtiMtetedtradcmjAof Apple Computn. inc. IBM is a regiittred tndtmaik of Interoatioial Biuineu MKhmM. Atari is a rtgiBteitd ttademiik oE Atan, lac SPELLING, MATH, OR LANGUAGE Games like Math Maze, Spellicopter^ and Creature Creator^ inspire youngsters to tap into that fertile idea-field. To actively become part of the program, in effect aeating "new" games as they go along. And all the while building up sohd skills in the basics. And all the while having a lot of plain old fun. DesignWare. We make learning come alive. On Apple nf IBM® and Atari® computers. Ask for DesignWare products at your local software retailer. Or call us at 800-572-7767 (in California, 415-546-1866) and ask for our free catalog. As Jason Gans says, "Hey —they don't caU me 'Numbers' for nothing, you know!" De/ionUkife LEARNING COMES ALIVE HOME-SCHdOL CONNECTION program and along the v/ay. Young- sters do not always assume that they should "press the space bar to con- tinue" and they easily forget how to exit a program or select a different option unless reminded frequently. A cursor should be used to indicate when the computer is waiting for a response and where it should ap- pear. Instructions should also be simple, yet complete enough for a child to be able to run the program alone once parents have helped witK an introduction and a practice run through or two. When it is the computer's turn to give a response, that message should always be nonjudgmental, friendly, and patient. A ehild should have the option to seek help if he or she is struggling with a question, and rewards for correct answers should be exciting, though not dis- tracting. Motivation. This is the fun part. Educational software is filled with captivating graphics, bells and whis- tles, and flashing colors and re- wards. Just make sure that such de- vices, besides being fun, serve some educational value. Graphics and col- ors should appear on the screen quickly so that they motivate rather SOURCES OF EDUCATIONAL SOFTWARE REVIEWS Courseware Report Card 150 West Carob St. Compton, CA 90220 Eiecironic Learning 730 Broadway New York, NY 10003 EPIE Micro>Cowrseware PRO/ FILES EPIE Institute P.O. Box 839 Water Mill, NY 11976 MicreSlFT Reviews Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory 300 S.W. Sixth Ave. Portland, OR 97204 Sclieel Micreware Reviews Dresden Associates Box 246 Dresden, ME 04342 Teaclting and Computers 730 Broadway New York, NY 10003 than distract, and sound, if used at all, should not be used to signal an incorrect answer. Calling attention to a wrong answer is upsetting to children, especially if others are lis- tening. Well-designed game formats serve as great motivators for children, pro- viding opportunities to improve speed and accuracy through drill- and-pracllce and to solve problems through simulations. Parents may want to make sure, though, that the games are nonviolent and that they foster individual self-improvement rather than competition. Because many of the software packages that provide good comput- er-learning experiences for children at home are the same as those being used in classrooms, these education- al standards developed by teachers can be put to good use by parents. Remember that good educational software should be easy for children to understand and operate without a great deal of adult supervision and. of course, be well matched to the child's age and grade level. It should be well tested and validated, but fun and challenging, too. Use the check- list on p. 22 to see if your choices make the grade. S Record Keeper (IM CARTRIDGE) $ 95 MINI JIN I ALL IN ONE, ONE FOR ALL! onlv "MJ is a winner..." "Learn MINI JINI Record Keeper in 20 minutes" Commander Magazine "Super duper database for VIC-20 and COMMODORE 64" Software Int'l Anyone who keeps records can use MINI JINT Record Keeper". 89 Administrators Bill payers Bookkeepers Bond clippers Checkwriters Collectors Families Hobbiests Card writers Libraries Medical persons Organizaiions Parly planners Post offices Salespersons Sctiools Store owners Students Teams Writers Plug in a cartridge for 50 to 500 records on tape or dislt. Print labels and reports, alphabetize, do math and statistics. NO EXTRA MEMORY REQUIRED Application Templates $14.95 each Milk ^gf' Dealer inquiries invited AVAILABLE IN SPANISH MINlJINr Archlvo Instante (tm) Coming soon; FRENCH, GERMAN and ITALIAN 5-/5 files with easy to use instructions. Organize ttie Hamsnack |tml Classroom planning (tm) Party plan (tm) Commodore 64 and VIC 20 are registered trademarks of Commodore Electronics. Ltd. JINI MICRO-SYSTEMS, Inc. I DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM DESIGN '' BOX 274 KINGSBRIDGE STN., RIVERDALE, NY 1 0463 (21 2) 796-6200 24 FAMILY COMPUTING • ATARI • APPLE • COM 64 • <OLE<0 J^ FROM THE FIRSrMAN THE LAST WOR^ IN VIDEO CAMEI ix T ^ cy^ -\t-^ TM designates a trademark of Sierra On-Line. Inc. i8 1983 Sierra On-Une. Inc. or Sydne/ Devefopment Corp. B.C. characters © FleW Entarprises, Inc. 1983. Manufaclured under license from Coleco Industries. Inc. GAMES MORE POPULAR THAN THE PUNCH BOWL Computer Gomes and the Spirit of Christmas BY JAMES DELSOH "Tis the Season to Be On-Line"* Tis the season to be on-line. Get computerized, you won't be sad. Boot a game up, you'll dojustjine. Learn about it now, and you'll be glad. Timex-Sinclair or Atari IBM, Commodore. Apple, too, Texas Instruments and others Get a bunch oj bytes, you won't be blue! It's always a real challenge waiting up all night for Santa. Christmas af- ter Christmas there is the same old stuff on TV: movies you've seen a dozen times, sitcom repeats you nev- er really wanted to watch the first time around. No matter what you do, no matter how hard you try, you eventually nod off before Senor Kringle arrives. And in the morning you wake up to discover that he did eat the milk and cookies you left for him. but never bothered to wake you up and say thanks. He just left the loot and took off. Well, here's the foolproof plan to make old St. Nick stick around: boot up a classic computer game like Temple oJApshai on your Apple, Atari, or IBM PC and leave a note saying he'll have to wake you to learn the rules. No doubt, when Christmas day breaks, you'll both still be glued to the screen, fending off beetles and ghostly wraiths. And how about Christmas morn- ing? If Santa brings a brand-new computer, be sure to read all the in- structions before trying to play with it. This isn't a windup toy, you know. Take the time to learn its ba- sic setup, then expand your gray matter. Parents note: It's Christ- mas— if all they can think of is rip- ping open those boxes and getting their hands on the computer, let your kids skip breakfast for once. Look at it this way: if they set the whole thing up the right way, maybe you'll be able to grab a second cup of coffee before you're pressed into computer game competition. JAMES DELSON IS KAMILY COMPlTriNGSgamcS critic. Next month, he'ti open the new year with a rundown ojhisjavontes. •Sung ro the tune of 'Deck the Halls." ^ <^ \fejjj,jj.j» .-mz^ ^ ^ l^ ^ ^ 'y^CC'-fy'.f'-^'"y'-^^''''''^''^^''/7/'7// ^ Q mull t:'- .■•■■•; 1 \ \% ■,'r.rrr.-'i'U Li iv ■2^/v////y// /^/y/,/( (,/„^, ,„ f„,/,^^y^/;/y., ,,/, ,^,, ^^^.fj: BRINGING DISTANT RELATIVES CLOSER Christmas is family time — perhaps more than any other time of the year. If they're properly used, com- puters can help make this a memo- rable holiday involving all members of the clan. Regular playing sessions conducted at my house on weekends and lesser holidays are always collec- tive, compelling affairs. Playing games, especially Interac- tive games in which players and spectators alike pitch in their two cents worth of ideas and sugges- tions, is the perfect icebreaker in multiple family-member situations. People who were strangers one mo- ment wouldn't think twice about clapping each other on the back af- ter having put their wits together to construct a set of wings from seem- ingly unrelated objects, as players do in the graphic adventure game for Apple. Atari, and IBM PC computers, Ulysses and the Golden Fleece. Dis- tant cousins, with whom you've rarely conversed, much less compet- ed, but who always show up for the holidays, could be candidates for a rousing game o( River Raid for the Atari. Invite them to join you in pi- loting a jet fighter in close combat, nailing enemy ships, and shooting down attacking tanks and helicop- ters. You'll find it more popular than the punch bowl. The squirms that accompany Great-Aunt Esme's fifteenth annual retelling of an old family tale might 26 FAMILY CO.MPUTING WOULD YOU SHELL OUT $1000 TO MATCH WITS WITH THIS?. Meet your match. Meet Infocom games: perhaps the best reason in software for owning a personal computer. In fact, people have been known to purchase computers and disk drives solely for the purpose of playing our games. And they haven't been disap- pointed. Because Infocom 's prose stim- ulates your imagination to a degree nothing else in software approaches. Instead of putting funny little creatures on your screen, we put you inside our stories. And we confront you with start- lingly realistic environments alive with situations, personalities, and logical puzzles the like of which you won't find elsewhere. The secret? We've found the way to plug our prose right into your imagination, and catapult you into a whole new dimension. If you think such an extraordinary experience is worth having, you're not alone. Everything we've ever written-ZORK" I, II, and III, DEADLINEr' STARCROSSr' suspended:' The wit- ness;" planetfall;' ENCHANTERr' and INFIDEU- has become an instant best- seller. For the simple reason that Infocom offers you something as rare and valu- able as anything in software— real entertainment. At last, you can fritter away your eve- nings playing a computer game without feeling like you're frittering away your computer investment. Step up to Infocom. AH words. No pictures. The secret reaches of your mind are beckoning. A whole new dimension is in there waiting for you. (For more information on Infocom games contact: Infocom, Inc., P.O. Box 855, Garden City, NY 11530.) inFocom The next dimension. For\-(Hir: Apple [1. Atari. Commodore 64. CPJM S:W,C Rainbuu-. DEC BT-U. I BNf . MS-DOS 2.(1. NEC APC. NEC PC-8000, Osborne. T[ I'rofessional. Tl S»»1A. TRS-8C Model 1. TRS-80 Model III. GAMES finally subside as you engage the old storyteiler in an enthralling text ad- venture. Just ease her down in front of your computer screen and intro- duce her to Wizardry. She may balk at the idea of creating her own game character. She may pooh-pooh the prospect of reasoning her way through a whimsical riddle. But once she's hooked, as eveiyone is who tries these superb programs, giggles of delight will certainly re- place stifled yawns as the family be- comes involved in the achievement of a shared goal. Togetherness and comradcry arc natural by-products of adventure gaming. The only complaint you may run up against is going to come from the kids, who'll complain that the old folks are monopolizing the family machine. Give them their due. even if Great-Aunt Esme has just made sixth level as a mage. Surely they'll let her play along when they descend into the dungeons of The Sword of Fargoal for the Commodore 64 and VIC'20. climb the world's greatest mountains in Alpiner for the Tl-99/ 4-A, or run for office in President. Elect for the Apple. And instead of having to sit through the same old song and dance about how much they've grown, by example of their expanding powers of reasoning, ihcy can show the relatives just how much they've learned. SIX OR EIGHT CHAIRS, A POLICEMAN, AND NO SODA In preparing the house for Christ- mas season gaming, its a good idea to set aside a room with space for six or eight chairs, with a table or other surface nearby for food and drinks. Anything edible or potable in the vicinity of the computer is strict- ly verboten. Nothing demolishes the fun as quickly as the dread "Soda syndrome." "Oops. I'm sorry" doesn't make up for wrecked equipment. Make sure that whoever is responsi- ble for the care of the computer acts as a police officer. No matter how of- ten people swear they'll be good, someone is going to forget and bring along that half-filled can of soda or half-catcn morsel of fruitcake. Al- though unpopular at first, the family Scrooge will minimize the risk of ca- tastrophe. The extra chairs in your holiday computer room may be empty when the gaming begins, but they'll be filled in short order as strangers to this phenomenon realize what they've been missing. Computer FAMILY COMPUTING CHRISTMAS SHOPPING LIST FOR BEGINNERS AND BEYOND: Alpiner, Ages 4 + ; available tor Tl- 99/4A; /see Software Guide, p. 166!. Crush, Crumble and Chomp! Ages 10 -H : available for Apple 11/11 plus/lie; Atari 400/800/1200; Commodore 64; TRS-80 Model 1 (level 2)/ni; Epyx. 1043 Kiel Ct.. Sunnyvale, CA 94089: (408) 745-0700. Pinball Censtruclien Set, Ages 12-1- ; available for Apple 11/11 plus/lie; Atari 400/800/1200; Electronic Arts, 2755 Campus Dr., San Mateo. CA 94403; (415)571-7171. President Elect, Ages 12+.; avail- able for Apple 11/11 plus/llc/lll: Strate- gic Simulations, 883 Sticrlin Rd,, BIdg. A-200, Mountain View. CA 94043; (415) 964-1353. River Raid, Ages 6+ ; available for Atari 400/800/1200; Isee Software Guide, p. 1661 Sword of Fargoal, Ages 10+ ; available for Commodore 64/ VlC-20; [see Software Reviews, p. 1 78]. Ulysses and the Golden Fleece, Ages 12+; available for Apple II/II plus/lie; Atari 400/800/1200: IBM- PC; [see Software Reviews, p. 180}. Wizardry, Ages 10+ : available for Apple 11/11 plus/lie; IBM-PC: Sir-tech, 6 Main St., Ogdensburg, IVY 13669; (315)393-6633. FOR INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED PLAYERS: Archon, Ages 12+ : available for Ap- ple lyil plus/lie: Atari 400/800/1200; Commodore 64: Electronic Arts. The Road to Gettysburg, Ages 12 + , available for Apple 11/11 plus/lie: {see Software Reviews, p. 1 78j. Sammy Lighlfoot, Ages 10 + ; available for Apple 11/11 plus/lie; Com- modore 64/VIC-20; Sierra On-Line. Sierra On-Line Bldg, . Coarsegold, CA 93614. (209) 683-6858. Temple of Apshai, Upper Reaches of ApshaS, Ages 10+ ; available for Apple II/Il plus/lie; Atari 400/800: IBM PC: [see Software Re- views p. 1801. Zerk I, II, and III, Ages 12 + ; avail- able for most machines: (see Soft- ware Guide, pp. 1661. FOR THE ADVANCED AND MORE ADVENTUROUS: Flight Simulator, Ages 12+ ; avail- able for IBM PC: Microsoft, 10700 Northup Wav, Bellevue. WA 98004 : (206) 828-8080. Knight of Diamonds and Lega* cy of Llylgamyn, Ages 12 + ; avail- able for Apple 11/11 plus/lie; IBM PC; Sir-tech. sales figures are going to rise before Christmas — that's expected. But the potential for new converts during the holiday season is wailing to be tapped. Wait to sec the January sales figures. 'TIS THE SEASON TO BE ON-LINE Unlike television, computers make reasonably good companions. They offer the chance for kids (and adults) to exercise the cerebral cortex, not just send it out for lunch. Show me a kid who won't choose Santmy Lightfoot or Archon over reruns of "Mission Impossible," and I'll cat my disk drive. Of course, computers make terrific parent sitters, as well. Sisters, cousins, and aunts are all guaranteed to fall for the highly play- able and constantly entertaining Crush. Crumble and Chomp!, in which players assume the role of a famous movie monster, or Pinball Construction Set. in which you de- sign, build, and modify your own electronic pinball table. If you're giving games, by all means, don't guess which ones your loved ones will want. That point can't be emphasized enough. Sur- prises are nice, but this is a very specialized market. Each gamer has his or her druthers, just as each game has its own flavor and feel. It's too easy to go wrong when there are more useless games out there than good ones. Often, you'll be able to match a close one's interests or hobbies with a suitable game. Greek mytholog>' buffs will enjoy Ulysses and the Golden Fleece, while aspiring avia- tors and dreamers will get a kick out of Microsoi't's Fliglit Simulator for the IBM PC. Would-be seafarers will love to set sail with Strategic Simu- lations' new Broadside, a complex game for the Apple in which players select or build a vi^arship of their own and set sail in 18th-cen(ury seas. If you're a computer game giver or taker and you don't know where to turn, this list of tried and true games may help you out. Many have been reviewed in this and previous issues of FAMILY coMi'uriNG. You may be able to try out some of them at your local computer store. Not every shop owner will let you. but it's worth a tr\' and it may save you some money and hurt feelings. A parting wish: May your mind be lucid and bright, and may all your programs boot Just right! IH 28 FAMILY COMPUTING GIVE YOUR KIDS A LESSON THEY'LL NEVER FORGEl When kids have fun and leam at the same time, they're more hkely to remember more of what they've learned. What's more, when they associate the two together— learning becomes an enjoyable activity. So they'll do more of it. That's the basic principle behind the Learning Fun Series from EPYX. FUN WITH MUSIC. PARENTS TAKE NOTE. Fun with Music™ is designed to appeal to both you and your children. It comes with a songbook and has two modes of play. In the first mode, you can enter songs from the songbook— or compose your own. Then play the songs back, adding or removing notes and changing tempo or key. Your com- puter is like a musical instrument with memory, and you see every note of it dis- played on your screen. The second mode lets you play your song in a fun-filled action game. You control a drum major trying to touch the notes before a small but pesky poodle catches up to him and slows down the parade. Either way, Fun with Music gives you and your whole family the perfect mix of learning and play. FUN WITH ART. JUST PICTURE IT. Creating art on the video screen is one of the newest forms of "high-tech" play for kids. And adults, for that matter Plus there's nothing to clean up afterwards. Fun with Art'" uses the computer and joystick to transform your TV screen into an artist's canvas with astonishing results. 128 colors, numerous brush strokes, all kinds of geometric shapes, and special fill-in and magnifying options are some of the 24 different modes and features available to create works of art never before possible. Fun with Art brings out the artist in you, no matter what your age! MORE LEARNING FUN ON THE WAY. These two are the first of an extensive series of Learning Fun games we have planned. Look for these, as well as other EPYX titles, wherever computer software is sold. LEARNING FUN SERIES. ■w.^ R. ffl River Raid "and Kaboom! ' are here. And your Atari" home computer just became more fun than ever. Because River Raid and Kaboom! have been re-designed to take full advantage of home com- puter capabilities. Far beyond anything you've ever experienced before in video games. Unique gi'aphics, aisp detail and brilliant sound all come together with spectacular impact. River Raid^ the battle adventure up the "River of No Return." The realism of Carol Shaw's River Raid is utterly amazing. It challenges your reflexes, stamina and sti'ategic savvy as you battle yoLu* way up the winding river. Enemy choppers. Jets. Tanks. Hot-air balloons. Ships. All out to blow you to smithereens. But you stiike back. Keeping one eye on the ever- changing terrain. Bridges. Mountains. Canyon walls. Islands. One false move and it's curtains. And if you're up to it, now you can skip easier sections of the river and get right to the heart of the battle. — gins-n Everything that made River Raid such a smashing hit is here. And tons more. Kaboom!", the award- winning game of catch with buckets and bombs. Lany Kaplan's Mad Bomber is back. The buckets ai'e back. But now, in Paul Willson's adaptation, you can di'op the bombs, while someone else tiies to catch them. Imagine dropping bombs. Faster and faster. T) the ever- quickening pace of the 1812 Overture. You shift right. Left. Back again. All the way right. He misses! You win! Now it's yom- turn to catch. The pressure mounts. The bombs start flying. You dash to catch them. And so it goes on into the night. And eveiytime 3^ou hit a new high score, it's displayed after the game, just lilce at the arcade. Kaboom! and River Raid for your Atari home computer. They're here. Just for the fun of it. Acti\-tsion is a registered trademark of Acrivision. [nc. Atari is a iVRistered ti'ademark <if Atari. Inc. c 1983 Activisiim, Inc. AcnVisioH HOME BUSINESS GIVING UP the 9-to-5 SHIFT For a Successful Home Accountant Business BY JEREMY SCHLOSBERG A shiny blue '57 T-Bird cruises down the main road in Spencer. New YorH: it seems to be the street's newest ob- ject. Planted in the midst of Tioga County farmland. Spencer — with its worn storefronts and idiosyncratic wood'frame houses — appears to a visitor as a town lost in time. Never mind Spencer's one supermarket and solitary bank: were you to dis- cover that residents here were still pumping their water out back and reading by gaslight, you might not be too surprised. Follow the T-Bird till the road ends, then take a left. See the saw mill on the right? Across from that is the Wild house. Has been since 1905. Inside is a curious mixture of the expected — a wood-burning stove that heats the house In the winter, antique family heirlooms on dis- play— and the unexpected. There. In a chamber off the dining room, sits Donna Wild's TRS-80 Model II com- puter, dot-matrix printer, and Xerox copier. Since October of 1982. Donna has been running an accounting busi- ness from that little room. Calling her operation Computer Connection. Donna specializes in bookkeeping for small local businesses. She start- ed Computer Connection with one client and a bank loan for a comput- er. A year later, the business is bursting out of its original office, with the demands of more than 25 clients — ranging from a chain saw sales and repair shop to a small local heating oil company. For iivcr three quarters of her clients. Donna does all the bookkeeping — from balancing checkbooks to generating income statements that tell businesses whether they arc making or losing money. The rest of her clients use Donna for specific serv'ices. such as JERENnrscHLOSBiiKG is ajree-lancc writer living in Ithaca, New York. He is edilor ofQ magay.ine, a small alternative biweekly in Rochester. New York, and is a regular contributor to Upstate magazine. payroll or income tax returns. Not bad for a woman whose prior attempt to launch an accounting business ended Ui failure eight months later. That was in 1980. Donna had just received an account- ing degree from a local community college. Confident, personable, and dedicated to her skills, she estab- lished a home business, only to find it painfully frustrating. "I was so limited by the number of people I could serve," she remembers, "that I decided I might better go to work for someone else." And in the spring of 1981 she did. getting a job as a full- time bookkeeper for one of her cli- ents. THE COMPUTER DIFFERENCE Still confident, personable, and dedicated. Donna now commands a thriving business. The difference be- tween her current business and her old one? The number of clients she can handle at once. The reason? That anachronistic addition to the Wild household — Donna's personal computer. As a full-time bookkeeper Donna discovered the machine that would free her to work for herself. In Feb- ruary of 1982, when her boss pur- chased a TRS'80 to handle the of- fice's pajToll chores. Donna became excited by the possibilities she saw in computerized accounting. "The computer." says Donna, "is the most fantastic thing that has ever happened to accounting." Ac- counting, for the uninitiated, in- volves the perpetual entering and manipulating of numbers in an ar- ray of different bookkeeping docu- ments. Sales are recorded into a led- ger, expenses into a journal: together, the figures proceed to a general ledger, from which the ac- countant calculates a trial balance. This done, income statements and balance sheets can be drawn up. "Each one of those times," says Don- na, alluding to traditional pencil- and-paper accounting, "you're re- 32 FAMILY COMPUTING m-.-'^s^r^d-'i :.'->aip'?tes-Tg=sy The popular choice for popular computers ... at a popular price. The Color-I Monitor is designed to perform superbly with your Apple II, Atari or VIC Commodore personal computer and others. Highly styled cabinet. It accepts a composite video signal to produce vivid, richly col- ored graphic and sharp text displays. Very reasonably priced, the Color-I is a giant step above home TV sets and other monitors. Just write, or call to receive complete specifications ■ FCC/ULapprov on the Amdek Color-I Monitor . 2201 Lively Blvd. • Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 ^ (312)364-1180 TLX: 25-4786 REGIONAL OFFICES: Calif. (71 4)662-3949 Amdek . . . your guide to innovative computing! ■ Quality 260(H) x 300(V) line resolution. U= Built-in speaker and audio amplifier. ■ Front mounted controls for easy adjustment. ■ Interface cables available for Atari and VIC Commodore computers. ■ FCC/UL approved. Texas (81 7) 498-2334 HOME BUSINESS writing those numbers by hand. With a computer, you put them in once — the income statement is gen- erated aulomatically once the Indi- vidual statistics are entered." Just by pressing a button, "Even on a small company's books, the computer cuts out two or three hours of work," Donna says. Days, she says, can be saved on a big job. Beyond sheer speed, accounting by computer offers unparalleled ac- curacy. Paper ledgers can conceal one mistaken figure in a sea of num- bers. A computer ledger, on the oth- er hand, demands balance with ev- ery single entry; a user can never proceed when the debit and credit columns arc not equal. Having had little previous comput- er experience. Donna is a testament to the power of mind over matter. "1 am not a technical person," she free- ly admits. "The computer is nothing but a glorified tool," she si resses."You can do whatever you want with it." What Donna wanted was her own business: In the computer, she knew she had found a valuable associate. LAYING THE GROUNDWORK By the summer of 1982, Donna had handed in her resignation, giv- ing herself ample time to buy her computer and software before leav- ing her job for good at the end of September, Her experience with and good feelings about the TRS-80 led her to choose it as the machine for her own office. A Radio Shack computer center in Binghamton, 45 miles away, provid- ed Donna with the ideal computer- shopping environment. "I would go in there and sit down with them," she recalls, "and they would spend hours with me. They'd put a pro- gram up on the screen and say, 'Here, play with it for a while,' In a couple of hours you can't really find out a lot, but you can see whether or not it's going to run for you." As Donna spent the end of the summer of 1982 familiarizing her- self with her new equipment, she also began to lay the personal groundwork for her new business. Since large, established business- es usually already have accountants. Donna set her sights on new, small businesses. She knew that most people who start new businesses are bound to visit bankers, for capital, and lawyers, for logistical particu- lars. Donna's course was clear. "I got a large supply of business cards and gave them to bankers and lawyers in the area. I said. 'Look, you all know me. You know that 1 do a good job. I'd appreciate it if you recommended me.' And they did." It pays to use connections, and in a town like Spencer (population about 2.500). Donna Wild, a resident since 1960. had a lot of them. To promote her new business to the public. Donna took out adver- tisements— both in the '^'ellow Pages and in a couple of small local papers. Those and an initial two-week period spent talking in person to anyone and everyone she could, have been all the self-promotion she's had to do. SUCCESS FROM THE START Computer Connection got off to a nice, steady start, averaging two new clients a month from October of 1982 through April of 1983. After that, says Donna. "It Just started snowballing." Since this spring, she's been averaging four to five new clients a month. Business grew so terrifically that she found herself un- able to handle everything alone, computer or no computer. This past summer, she hired someone part time to input data. From the beginning. Donna has been buying her software one pro- gram at a time, in response to grow- ing needs. She uses the TRS-80 business programs: beginning with Genera! Ledger, she now has Pay- roll and Accounts Receivable, each purchased to handle specific tasks for specific clients of hers. Even as an accountant, however. Donna finds that her most utilized piece of software is not any of the business packages but her Profile 11+ data-base program. She com- pares it to a blank piece of paper "Ihal you can write on, and add. subtract, divide, and multiply on." Donna uses Profile for inventory and for municipal accounting, as an ex- pandable filing cabinet for client data and as an endlessly manipuia- blc mailing list. To her, the possibili- ties are limitless. — ^ TIPS FOR STARTING YOUR OWN HOME ACCOUNTING BUSINESS You cannot start a computerized bookkeeping business without an accounting background. But you can get one going with little or no experience with computers. Here are seven steps to guide you: 1. Brusk up en your account- ing— all of il. "You've got to know how to do everything up through the tax return." says Donna Wild. 'Take courses if ncccssar>' to strengthen any of your weaker areas. 2. Don't be intimidated by expense. Sure, these machines cost a lot; a bank, however, might be interested in helping you out. Tell your banker what you want to do. explain how much you'll need, and demonstrate how you'll pay it back — on paper. "If you've got good credit," says Donna, "it can be started on a shoestring." 3. Equipment first, clients sec- ond. You have to be familiar with what your computer and software can do, because it's the first thing potential clients will ask you. Donna suggests having your computer and your programs for at least a month before you go public. 4. Don't expect to master your software quickly. Most ac- counting programs will take a solid 40 to 80 hours to learn. Don't cut corners — take one step, read it, do what it says, and understand it he- fore you go to the next step. 5. Advertise. Get your name out there consistently. Donna advertises in the Yellow Pages, and weekly in local papers. If people see your name week in and week out. says Donna, "they'll get the idea that your busi- ness isn't a Oy-by-nighl operation." 6. Be as thorough with your own plans as you are with your clients' books. Continually re- search software for advancements and developments. Nearly evei-y ma- jor brand of personal computer has its own magazine these days; this is the best place to start your research. Maintain a working relationship with the store in which you pur- chased j'our computer — the salespeo- ple there can often keep you in- formed about new and improved software. 7. Your machine's a ma- chine— you are a person. Keep it that way. A good deal of what an individual accountant can offer is personalized service; in the end. peo- ple will hire \'ou not for your silicon chips but for your skills and quality of service. — jekemy schlosberg 34 FAMILY COMPUTING iK^^Rf lifferetic Unless you want the best price, performance and quality. The other guys' printers have always been ade- quate. But why settle for adequate when you can have the best. The quiet new Riteman personal printer from Inforunner for j'our computer. Made possible by over 38 years of manufac- turing expertise, Inforunner has produced the best printer ever. Inch for inch, we've packed more heavy-duty quality and performance inside our compact Ritenian printers at a lower cost than the competition. Compare feature for feature. With the Riteman you get uni- or bi-directional printing running easily at 120 cps with friction, pin, and tractor feed at no extra cost. You can use your own stationery, labels, fan fold or pin feed paper. So all your printing gets done faster. The Riteman is Epson-compatible for inter- facing with most personal computers. Like Apple and IBM. And with a wide variety of print modes including italics, super and sub- scripts with true descenders. So your letters and other printouts look their best. And it runs with many popular software packages including graphics. See for yourself how easily this incredibly low-priced printer, with the best price/perfor- mance/quality combination, fits into a briefcase — at your nearest computer dealer. ASK YOUR DEALER or call toll free (800) 824-3044. In California (800) 421-2551. Inforunner Corporation, 1621 Stanford Street, Santa Monica, CA 90404. Inforunner's Riteman IHSTRlIMTKi'WOiil.inVtDK -■Ai[]iif \>i n ri-ffiriti-reii iraiU'mHrk nf .\|i|ili' <"i«nipuU'r Inc. IHM is a rfiiiisioroil tra(|pni;irk nf IBM rnriMiralinti Kpson is a rt'KiskTi'H inidemftrk nf Kpscin AniiTu-a HOME BUSINESS With her software, her knowledge, and her professional approach, Don- na can take the most chaotic box of receipts and turn It into a polished, balanced ledger. As an independent, home-based accountant. Donna can either travel to her client's office, or have her client come to her, "which- ever is more convenient," she says. "It's a very relaxed atmosphere here," she adds, "and that's one of the things my clients like. They come here and we put on a pot of coffee, sit down at the dining room table, and talk." Donna is in contact with her cli- ents as each case demands. "My big- gest clients I'll talk to weekly." she says. "And I'd say 1 talk to 80 per- cent of my clients once a month." FROM E4IRBANKST0 TUCSON, E4YTE4CHES IT RIGHT! E4Y! helpsyourchild learn matn or spelling and makes It fun! Fay That Math Wornan is a non-violent animated program that uses number lines to illustrate /low the four basic math operations work. Fay's antics tie the abstract concept to a visual level so your child will understand. It is more than drill and practice. The program also as two game levels (watch out for the "random numbers"!) For children in grades 1 to 4. On diskette for the Apple and Commodore 64. OnlyS29.95 Fay The Word Hunter searches for words in an exciting underwater world. She needs your child's help to find them. By directing Fay to find the hidden words and expose them with her laser beam your child will focus on the visual form of these words and build good spelling skills. Watch out for the crabs and sharks! The program includes 3000 of the most used words and an Authoring System which allows you to program for special needs. Designed for children in grades 3 to 10, adults will like it too! Available for the Apple on diskette. Only $34.95 Fay! She's no nonsense, but she's never dull! Fay! See her at a dealer near you, Or write or phone today. DIDATECH SOFTWARE Dept, C549 Box C34069 Seattle, Wa. 98124-1069 In Canada: Suite 549 - 810 West Broadway Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4C9 (604) 687-3468 Donnas family — her husband and four children — has backed her all the way with Computer Connection. Her youngest boy, who is 14 years "THE COMPUTER IS THE MOST FANTASTIC THING THAT HAS EVER HAPPENED TO ACCOUNTING." old. even has a plan. "He keeps tell- ing me he's going to go to college, come back, take my business over, and make me a millionaire," she chuckles. "He doesn't think account- ing, he thinks computing." As for husband, John, he"s "very interested and supportive," though Donna admits that he doesn't ex- press that much direct curiosity about her computerized business. What does he do? "He's in quality control at IBM," reports Donna. Oh, so he's already familiar with computers. "No," laughs Donna, shaking her head. "He's never used one." As it turns out, he works on IBM's federal projects, and has little to do with computers per se. Unlike his ambitious wife, who is planning some big things for the next few years. "I have very strongly been thinking about franchising," she says. She's already been helping people informally: "I have probably had a hundred phone calls from peo- ple in the surrounding areas who have seen my advertising, and have said 'How did you do this?" "I see the market for a lot of these businesses," she says. "Maybe 1 would start by offering classes, and grow from there." Ultimatety. she en- visions Computer Connections all over: independent accounting busi- nesses that she sets up, provides equipment for, services when neces- sary'— in return for a percentage of monthly sales. "There are franchises that are big corporations, yet the name says quality. That's the one thing 1 would preserve. If you give people the per- sona] service and the respect they deserve, then your services are going to be in demand. "1 want to get big," says Donna Wild. "But I'm never going to lose that personal touch. That's an atti- tude more than anything else." And that attitude can't be taught. S 36 FAMILY CO.MI'UTINC Tvf-^ «^t'.^ ^-auvi^l^;^^ ,e;y;*=**--J>--' 'iM^^^^:(,i^f^^JjSS S'S^i^W'^, r^sa-^ ^.SJ?^%'- -:iW- industry breqkthrQugh. CV'trx fc^^s^ip 5^4+ :-»y;--^w»,'>^'*:.".!!.-^ -*s= ."T'lfi^V -'' *¥S^-:*^ ■■■fJi Wfp-- ".-** SA , '-n- .»"■ " l_. . .T,T. ?^-,fc?^ii?r^/^SaE •??.5Ai? ^i^rS^ -HV-rtl-r- tri*^????: ?s;»»^r^J WSS;^/: :-irrt- NEW 2 (yes TWO!) YEAR UNCONDITIONAL WARRANTY ONALLAMDEK MONITORS. ^&; It's new . . . It's exciting ... ^^*^ , . . another first for the industry with Amdelc's bold 2-year war- ranty on monitor electronics , . . and an unprecedented 3-year warranty on monitor CRT's. Yes. it includes all parts & labor' And, all warranties in existence are automatically extended to the new 2-year warranty. Amdek has always been thoroughly commitied to the highest quality standards , quality that's inherent in every monitor component and every connection . . . quality that's triple checked before every sHipment. That's why we dare to offer this extended warranty. You expect top quality equipment to operate trouble-free for years. We agree This industry-first warranty is our answer to your expectations. Enjoy Amdek performance . . . and keep coming back for more! See our complete line of color and monochrome monitors, plus the new 3" disk drive, plotters and expansion boards at your local authorized Amdek dealer. 2201 Lively Blvd. • Elk Grove Village, iL60007 (312)364-1180 TLX, 25-4786 REGIONAL OFFICES, Coiif. (714) 662-3949 • Texas (817) 498-2334 Amdek . . . your guide to Innovative computing! AMDEK OFFERS LOCAL SERVICE ON MONITORS AND DISK DRIVES Now all Xerox service centers across the USA are equipped to service and repair Amdek monitors, plotters, and disk drives including their new 3" micro-floppydisk drives. Contact your local Amdek dealer for more details. COMPUTING CONFIDENTIAL ADDiaED TO COMPUTERS BY SARAH KORTUM Jonathan Franklin first saw the school computer room on a tour with his math class. Only weeks be- fore the 14-year-old freshman had left family and friends 3,000 miles away in San Francisco for boarding school in New Hampshire. "! don't think the computer room caught my eye at first," recalls Jonathan, now 17. "1 didn't say. 'Gosh, this is where 1 want to spend the rest of my life!" " But it was where he ended up spending most of his winter. Only 5'1" and 98 pounds at the time. "I really looked like .some sort of young, new person thei-e," recalls Jonathan, who has since shot up to 5'1 1". "I wore glasses — they weren't wires, they were sort of gray plastic. I was the only ninth grader on a [dormi floor of all seniors and ju- niors. They all liked to abuse me be- cause 'Here's this little guy.' "I wasn't shy and embarrassed." Jonathan continues. "I was very loud on the outside, 1 did a lot of wandering through the dorm, mak- ing a nuisance out of myself I al- ways tried to make bad jokes. I lacked the ability to communicate with people, the ability to really sym- pathize with people. I just wasn't very personable. I was solitary in the sharing of my feelings and under- standing how other people felt. "Often in a new environment, you don't have much confidence," ex- plains Jonathan of his first year at Phillips Exeter Academy- "The com- puter room was an easy place to go and hide. It's the ideal escape. "It was something that was in my lifestyle at home." continues Jona- than, who first learned to program in 1979 when his family bought an Apple II computer. "It was familiar in the sense that I knew what I was doing. So 1 turned to it." Seeing a computer, "I just got ex- cited," says Jonathan. "Here's this thing that would do things with me, that wouldn't cut me down. It would never say, 'No,' or 'I have to go eat SARAH KORTUM Is UJestyles editor oj FAMII-Y COMPUTING. Jonathan Franklin, with San Francisco Bay in the background. lunch, see you later." It never Judged me or made criticisms. It was some- thing you could control. You tell it what to do, and it does it. it was al- ways there. It was so dependable." Was the computer his friend? "Oh no — what a horrible idea!" responds Jonathan. "The computer was there, it wasn't my friend! In the same way that it couldn't be mean to you, it couldn't be nice to you. It was a one- sided affair, so to speak! "But the computer gave me confi- dence because I was good at some- thing. People would come to me with their homework, and 1 would be ex- cited because someone was actually relying on me." GROWING APDICTION The growth of his addiction "was very subtle," recalls Jonathan. "1 didn't realize what was going on. All of a sudden I was spending eight hours a day in the computer room. "1 would often get up at 6:30 and skip breakfast and trudge across the barren, winter wasteland to the com- puter room, and wait for it to open at 7:00 so I could gel some time in before my first class." Heading to the computer room. Jonathan would feel "excited" as he contemplated some new solution to a programming problem, such as how to move the ship in a game he was writing. He was spending more and more time working on projects that weren't assigned. And though he never cut his classes. Jonathan wasn't devoting the time he should have been to homework. At night he could still be found in the computer room. When it came time to leave, "1 was frantic! 'Oh no! I gotta cram Just one more idea in!" " He would log off with only three minutes to go before last call at the dorm, "and run off into the snow and into the dorm, huffing and puff- ing. Often I'd bring a printout and put aside my French books and start scribbling." His grades started slip- ping. Computer addiction is "more ac- ceptable than drugs or alcohol." says Jonathan. "Most of the other addic- tions are passive, or fun. But with computers the rationale is that you're actually producing something. But it's basically the same as other addictions in how It influences your actions. "The main sign is when you start skipping things that you used to en- Joy. "When you lose the sense of re- 38 FAMILY COMPUTING BabylsFiist SoftHaie What software does the well- educated toddler prefer? Ask Adam. He plays with the full line of PDI interactive story- book software. Why? Because Adam's mother knows children from 3-6 don't have to read to have fun learning with PDI software. Each storybook package includes a voice-based cassette ynchronized for the Atari com- uter. The cassette combines a earning game and a story read aloud by a profes- sional actor. While listening to the story, your child is asked to direct the action on screen by mov- ing the joystick. 1^^ As the story progresses, your child becomes part of the action, while acquiring new skills. Best of all, the voice track helps children use PDI programs with- out assistance. When PDI programs talk, chil- dren listen. And learn. Parents will listen, too. And what they'll hear is the sound of children developing pre-reading skills, including letter recognition and number concepts. But more than talk, we've got action, too. From Sammy the Sea Serpent to the Adventures of Oswald, all PDI Pre-School pro- grams include bright colors, charming music and friendly characters children warm up to quickly. If alf that's not enough to seil you on PDI software, this should. PDI has commissioned a study to measure the effects of our soft- ware on pre-school children. The study, a first of its kind, was supervised by educators special- izing in pre-school development. We'll be glad to send you the results, if you'll send us a post- card with your name and address tO: "The PDI Pre-Schooi Study" c/o Program Design, Inc. 95 East Putnam Avenue Greenwich, Conn. 06830 Program Design, Inc. •Atari is a trademark of Atari, Inc. COMPUTING CONFIDENTIAL sponslbllity to others and to your- self. I was skipping meals. 1 was staying up later than my bedtime to run through programs in my mind. 1 started losing a sense of what's right and what's wrong." NONSTOP PROGRAMMING Most of Jonathan's lime at the computer was spent programming games, "mainly space games and shoot-'em-up games," he says. "One of the crucial things in using a com- puter, as in everything else, is know- ing when to stop. 1 was never good at that! I'd write one program and put it down and write another, and then I'd join the two. And then I'd write a third one and make it a tril- ogy! The longest program I ever wrote was the one where I lumped all my programs together! "It came to about 1,700 lines (of BASIC). It's sort of like a clay sculp- ture that you keep on adding to but you never fire or glaze it, you just keep glopping more and more clay on until it becomes unmanageable!" ■What absorbed Jonathan the most was the process. "I didn't really care that much about the finished prod- uct. 1 never sat and played the game, c.\ccpt to test it. After 1 was satisfied that it worked the way 1 wanted it to, it was on to the next one. " Jonathan never shared his work with others during that period, though he would fantasize about how someone might enjoy it. "There was no feedback. It was more self- satisfaction because 1 wasn't really involved with people at that point." Even in the computer room, "I was never very social," recalls Jonathan. "1 was the person who was sort of Jelling with the machine, not watch- ing the time. "I wouldn't say that what I learned from the computer during that peri- od has helped me that much." con- cludes Jonathan. "1 was already computer literate, on (my family's! Apple. When you're addicted, things come out so crazy and crooked. Looking back, 1 think that what's most important is to write a pro- gram cleanly and logically. That's when you really start learning. You can write five hundred dumb, boring programs, but if you have one good idea, and you execute it well, that one is much more worthwhile. It cer- tainly is quality not quantity. "But seeing that I never got away. I never got an aerial view of my pro- gramming and what 1 was actually doing. Computers are so involving, if you get obsessed with them, you of- ten don't realize it. "Nothing alarmed me. I was going along on my own mern' way think- ing that computers are great, com- puters are going to save the world. Everybody is going to have to use them. I'll get a head start. "1 would have been infuriated if somebody had come along and said. 'Stop it. You won't do that anymore.' I probably would have said, 'I'm sor- ry, no, 1 have to keep doing this, for the good of mankind!' That driven sort of reaction. "When I wrote home, which wasn't very often, a lot of the time it was about how great computers are. I've recently seen some of the letters. and they're just fanatical! My mother would write and ask if fwas making friends. I'd just sort of shrug [her queries) off. THE TURNING POINT "The turning point was spring va- cation." Jonathan flew back home to San Francisco, leaving his programs behind. "1 left school thinking, "Oh no, what am 1 going to do without the [school's] computer?' But the va- cation was good in that it forced me to step back and look at that one conglomeration of programs I'd been working on al! winter. 1 realized it was not that worthwhile. "When I left there was snow on the ground and gray skies. 1 came back to a new world. People were playing Frisbee, the sim was out. School was going to be over in two months. Evcrj'body is happier in the spring. And that positive attitude really changes the way you think. I real- ized I didn't have to hide." Jonathan is now a senior al Exe- ter, and was recently voted proctor of his dorm, making him a liaison between the students and the facul- ty. He is on the board of WPEA, the student radio station. And he has developed a number of close friends, though he hasn't Jorsaken his old companion: the computer. Jonathan spends about an hour a day writing programs and papers on his Kaypro II portable computer. "But it's like a part-time Job now." he says. He is the author of this month's Puzzle program. [R] IS YOUR CHILD BECOMING A COMPUIER ADDICT? Here are some words of advice from one who has been there and back. 1 . DON'T MAKE EXCUSES "Parents like to think that their children are special and really smart," says Jonathan Franklin, a 17-year-old reformed computer ad- dict. Often when parents look at a child who is overdoing it on the computer, they tend to think. " 'Oh well, at least he's getting something done, and he's exercising his mind.' " Don't turn your back to "how obses- sive a computer can become." 2. TRY AND TALK "Once I saw addiction coming along. I'd bring it up," says Jona- than. "I'd say, 'Look, I'm aware that you're spending an awful tot of time at the computer.' It's worth learning what your son or daughter is think- ing about." But don't push them to talk. "Acknowledge the problem but don't overemphasize It. It may be just a stage." 3. DON'T FORCE ABSTENTION Jonathan advises that except with young children, "something you shouldn't do is make solid rules: 'You cannot use the computer be- tween the hours X and Y. You can- not use disks B and C without my permission.' Because if you say, 'Don't eat the cookies, don't cat the cookies,' the one thing a kid is going to do is eat the cookies. You don't want to police the situation. Because freedom is part of learning," 4. ENCOURAGE INTERACTION "If 1 knew my kid was getting too involved in the computer, 1 would try to underhandcdly get him or her in- volved in other things," says Jona- than. "1 wouldn't blatantly say. 'You gotta go out and make friends,' but I would say, "Why don't you invite one of your friends over who uses the computer?' With friends over, they're bound to digress," 5. LEARN ABOUT COMPUTERS YOURSELF "If parents involve themselves, it makes the computer less of a soli- tary activity." says Jonathan, "It's good to have a friend to talk things over with. A computer Is just one way to bring a family closer together. " 40 FAMILY COMPUTING GET THE JUMP ON MATH With Scott, Foresman Math Action Games Frog Jump is a great way for your children to learn to work with numbers. Or they can take a Space Journey to learn how to work with percents. Pyramid Puzzler, Star Maze, Picture Parts, and Number Bowling help with multiplication. . . division. . . basic facts. . . decimals and fractions. Math Action Games get youngsters deeply involved in the excitement of discovering and mastering fundamental mathematics. Children have fun and learn at the same time. There's a Math Action Game for every age group. Exciting formats challenge participants, moving them through three levels of difficulty. Games can be competitive or non-competitive, so children play them again and again. Each game uses color, music, animation, and sound effects to trigger quick thinking and accurate response. Math Action Games can give your youngster the incentives and the satisfaction he needs to master math. It's an ideal supplement to any school mathematics program. Games are available for most popular microcomputers. SCOTT, FORESMAN... Products with tomorrow in mind. Buy Math Action Games wherever quality software is sold or write: Scott, Foresman and Company Electronic Publishing Division 1900 East Lake Avenue Glenview, Illinois 60025 We just made owning an Atari computer a lot more logical. Introducing the Rana 1000 disk drive. It's a whole new game for Atari computers. This two digit LED readout displays a code that tells you everything you need to know. This beeping button tells you your write protect feature is keeping your information safe. When Rana Systems introduced the Elite Series of Apple' cotnpatible disk drives, we didn't know what a tremendous impact they would make, It turned out to be a tine so outstanding in perfor- mance, styling, capacity and price, that it instan- taneously made us a major force in the market. Well, needless to say the response was so great that we were forced to create the same highly ad- vanced disk drive for Atari." A disk drive that when coupled with Atari's computer could perform everything from accounting, financial planning, and stock charting, to word processing, business management, and letting you write your own pro- grams. Plus, we made it simple enough for a child to use, for learning anything from the alphabet to a foreign language. Working with a diskette versus plaiying with a cassette. Let's face it. The only reason Atari made a cassette option to their computer was to make it affordable. But now you don't have to settle for less. Because now you can get a diskette for your Atari computer which outperforms their cassette and costs Va less than their disk drive. With Atari's cas- sette you only get half the functions of a com- puter compared to what our floppy disk can give you. Their cassette is not only limited in the soft- ware available, but it also takes 20 times longer to get the information you need. And Rana's disk The remaining buttons beep when touched, and provide readouts on density storage, error status, and drive number, This button beeps when you touch it, and the LED readout tells you what track you're on. drive offers twice the storage capacity of either their cassette or disk drive. Why even sfylewise our new low profile design not only looks 100 times more spectacular, but it occupies 3 times less space. And our new Rana 1000 also gives you a piece of its mind every time you use it, because our disk drive gives you informa- tion as well as takes it. And we think that says a lot. The disk drive that has all the answers. Rana offers you a myriad of features Atari couldn't even conceive of. Like five eiectronic func- tions on the front panel that actually beep and give you a LED readout when touched. Our disk drive tells you what track you're on, and what density and how much information you're storing. It lets you switch from a single density of 90,000 letters to a double density of 180,000 letters, on a single diskette. And. we have a write protect feature which protects your diskette from being erased. In fact, no other disk drive can offer you that. As you can see, it was easy to build a disk drive superior to Atari's. Because for every reason you buy a disk drive, Rana has superior technology. The Rana 1000 disk drive. It brings your Atari computer to a higher level of sophistication for a price one third lower than Atari's. So your choice shouldn't even be a matter of logic. Just common sense. RHnfloySIGnnS Always a step ahead of the originals. 21300 Superior SIreel Chatsworlh. CA 9131t 213.709.S484 For deal Br information call loll Iree: I-B00-421-Z207. In Calitorniaonly call, 1-800-262-1221. Sourer; Number: TCT-654 »Apple is a registered Irademark of Apple Compuler. Inc r Atari is a registered Irademartc of Alaii. Inc.. a Warner Communications Company COMPUTING CLINIC PUBLIC DOMAIN SOFTWARE/ SAVING TO TAPE/ CRT EMISSIONS CONTROVERSY BY WAUER KOETKE What is "public domain" soft- ware and wiiere do I find it? Software that can be legally copied by everyone is called public domain software. No one has a copyright on public domain software. Since some hardware manufactur- ers (Atari and Commodore in partic- ular) make public domain software available through their dealers, start looking for it at your local computer stores. In addition, many stores have their own collection of public domain programs. All of this is usu- ally available for the cost of a tape or disk, plus a small handling fee. Local user groups arc also a good source. Bring some blank tapes or disks to a meeting and you should be able to obtain some public do- main material. You might also check with your local school system. If there's a good source of inexpensive software, the students or teachers are almost sure to know about it. One of the largest collections of high-quality public domain educa- tional software is available from the SOFTSWAP Microcomputer Center (San Mateo County Office of Educa- tion; 333 Main Street: Redwood City. CA 94063). Send them a stamped, self-addressed envelope and ask for their disk order form. While 1 encourage your search for public domain material, I also sug- gest that there is truth in the old saying, "You get what you pay for." Most authors of good original mate- WAl.TF.H KOKTKl-; inlrotluced computers into U.S. public schools, linking the Lexington. Massachusetts, system to a mainframe in W64. In 1969 he worked ivilh Seymour Papert. inventor of LOGO, who brought that programming language to the same school system. He has Liirit(efi/or Creative Computing and Microcomputing magaxines, and frequently lectures about computers to parents and educators. rial are interested in being pub- lished commercially, and under the protection offered by copyright. Several major microcomputer malcers are losing hundreds of millions of dollars this year. Are these companies Itiieiy to survive? Should I buy from one of them and risk the loss of ser- vice/support in the future? If I could accurately predict the fu- ture of just two or three companies I'd own a magazine instead of work- ing for one. When a company such as the Osborne Computer Corp., which makes just a few products for a single marketplace, loses lots of money, survival is unlikely. When a company such as Texas Instruments or Warner Communications [maker of Atari computers), with many products in many markets, loses money in one market, corporate sur- vival is quite likely. Your concern, however, is justi- fied. 1 do not recommend purchas- ing a microcomputer if you aren't reasonably confident that it can be supported — with software, peripher- als, and service — for the next five years. This means that the manufac- turer and your local dealer who pro- vides the service must remain in business. I wouldn't worry beyond five years because at that time you will probably be able to purchase a more capable system for less than the cost of repairing an old one. I'm a freelance writer who uses a word processor — which means I spend several hours a day in front of a monitor. Should I be concerned about harmful emis- sions or other potential health hazards? You've asked what has been, and I expect will remain, a controversial question for a long time. Bell Tele- phone of Canada, for instance, is aware of the controversy, and per- mits pregnant operators of video dis- play terminals to transfer to other jobs during their pregnancies. On the other hand, a two-year study by the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences re- cently concluded that the regular use of video display terminals will not impair vision. Meanwhile, 9-to- 5, a national association of office workers, uses a hot line to collect proof of the need for federal safety regulations for workers using video display terminals. And on goes the controversy. Video display terminals, including TVs, do emit very small amounts of X-rays, ultraviolet light, and positive ions. For about SI 25 you can pur- chase a Somashicid that will block almost all of the low-level radiation. Check with your local computer store for availability. If you're worried about the prob- lem, you can take a few steps on your own. Be sure to use a mono- chrome display rather than a color display for word processing, or any application that requires reading text or numbers for long stretches of time. The resolution is much better. Amber on black displays arc best for the eyes. Green on black is your sec- ond-best choice. Also check your lighting. The opti- mum lighting for work with pencil and paper is brighter than the opti- mum lighting for work with a video display. Tilt and turn your screen to eliminate glare; to do so, you may have to rearrange your work area. Can you clean heads on disk drives as you can on tape re- corders? Yes, it's possible, but 1 advise you not to do it yourself. There are just too many pitfalls, since you must 44 FAMILY COMPUTING . Ml (f. \ \ \ FiimUy, computer games 31m ^vant >iHir kids to pk^ Spinnaker makes computer games kids love to play. But some of our biggest fans are parents. Because on top of all the fun and excitement, our games have something more. True educational value. They help develop a child's learning skills, in all kinds of fun ways. 5o Spinnaker games aren'tjust computer games. They're Learning Games. They're written by top educators who know how to make learning fun. And by expert game programmers, who use colorful graphics, animation and sound to make our games so exciting, your kids may not even realize they're learning, They're having too good a time! That's why children love us. And parents love us. And why we're already the leader In the field of home edu- cational software. 5o if you're looking for computer games that you'll like as much as your kids will, look for Spinnaker's line of Learning Qames (in disk and cartridge') at your local retailer Spinnaker We're giving computer g^n^s ar -"i^s^ ■> games a good name. ■■»■■"" ^ "■■ "■ sPffmoKeff We make learning fun. 019B5, 5pinnaher Software Cofp All rigtits reserved Apoie.ibH and Atafiane tegi^te'ea uaaemarha of Appie Computer. Inc. intetnalional Business Machines Corp and fttarj, inc . tcspecliveiy Commodore fefl isa trademarh of CorrmodoreElectlonlcsLi'milea X COMPUTING CLINIC open the disk drive, perhaps tempo- rarily disconnect some components, and then clean a relatively fragile, finely adjusted readywrite head. Under normal circumstances. I suggest having your local dealer or service center clean, demagnetize. and realign your disk heads on an annual basis. The dealer can also adjust the speed of the drive. If there have been any factory-suggested modilications. these should also be completed. The annual checkup should be reasonably priced and will contribute significantly to reliable use. There arc several head-cleaning andffree-ftoa / at thelfip^f a'switch | |...and many other high-performance features l»fi_ ■ FULL 1-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY. Ask us about Kraft's complete line of computer produ(|ts. I t^^FT SYSTEMS COMPANY 450 W. California Ave., Vista, CA 92083 • (619) 724-7146 A division of Carlisle Corporation 'All of the above have registered trademarKs. disks available. But, in my experi- ence, they have made no identifiable difference in disk performance, re- duced maintenance requirements, or cleared up an existing problem. Fur- thermore, they can actually wear down the heads if used too often. Does it matter if you leave your disit drive door open wiien net in use? Open or closed — 1 don't believe it makes any difference at all. If it does, then at least one of the hard- ware makers should have mentioned the subject in a manual. None did. I've iiad trouble storing pro- grams on tape. Some get saved and seme den't, but there's no identifiable pattern. Any ideas? Look at the tape heads. They should be smooth and spotless. If you can .sec dark streaks, the heads are very dirty and should have been cleaned some time ago. Since even minute particles on the read/write heads will degrade the performance of your cas- sette recorder, you should clean the heads every couple of weeks. I sug- gest using cotton swabs and a head- cleaning solution available at most record stores. You can also purchase special head-cleaning cassettes, but I believe that a swab in the hand does a much better job. Whenever you clean your recorder, I also suggest demagnetizing the heads. This can be done with a hand-held demagnetizer (available for less than SlO] or a battery- powered demagnetizer (available for less than S25). which looks like a cassette. The batterj'-powcrcd device should give more consistent results. If cleaning and demagnetizing don't eliminate your problem, try us- ing a higher quality tape. Average- quality audio tape should be suffi- cient. Lower grades can give inconsistent results with computer data. If problems persist, the computer or recorder will most likely require service. Be sure to get an estiinate before having your recorder re- paired. The cost of parts and labor may make purchasing a new record- er a better choice, g; Send your questions, general or tna- chine specific, to: kamilv comi'iitiko, Com- puting Clinic. 730 Broadway. New York. NY 10003. Please include name, ad- dress, and phone number. 46 FAMILY coirfPirriNC FiSiR! Computer 21 28 Route 38 ■ Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08002 Telephone: 609/482-5900 • Telex: 837-385 Franklm ACE 6 a trademark ol FranWm Computef Corp. Apple ts a tegslered IrademartiOf Apple Coinpuler Inc. LIGHT TOUCH THE AAAN WHO BOUGHT TOO AAANY PERIPHERALS BY DAVID KOVACS ^^ne morning last week was ex- ceptional!)' beautiful, so 1 unplugged myself from my micro for a stroll along a nearby beach in search of creative inspiration. There, among the driftwood, was a verj' strange looking bottle, with a piece of paper inside. Hmm, I thought. Either I've been playing too many games of Zork, or this is real. Oddly. 1 was almost hop- ing for something in the way of a real-life adventure as I pulled out the cork. There, folded inside, was a very long document on tractor-feed paper. The printing was dot-matrix, and the message was a strange one indeed. THANK YOU FOR OPENING THIS MESSAGE!" it began enthusiastical- ly. "PLEASE DONT IGNORE IT! I AM COUNTING ON YOU FOR HELP!" Any doubts I had about its authen- ticity were dispelled. This wasn't fan mail from some flounders. This was a real message. The letter's tone became calmer. 'I am writing this from a deserted is- land, light years from civilization, where 1 am now living until my san- ity returns. Please realize that I was not shipwrecked. 1 chose to come here. I like it. There is peace, and se- renity. What made me come here? What was it that almost drove me out of my mind? I can sum it up in one word: peripherals. "I still remember the day 1 brought my computer home from the store. Like a kid on Christmas morning, 1 lore through the packing material, placed it on my desk, plugged it in, and turned to the first page of the DAVID KOVACS is a Chicago-based freelance wrUer who occasionalkj finds his computer amusing. He would gladly consider paying "a couple hundred dollars" jor a progrant that writesjokes. manual, eager to begin processing my words, balancing my checks, and 'Vising' my Gale. 1 couldn't wait to start living my lifelong fantasies of fighting pirates and goblins, manag- ing a big-league baseball team, and defending the planet from certain destruction. "But these pleasures were not to be. Little did 1 know that buying a computer was like walking into the front gate of an amusement park. There before your eyes await endless varieties of fun and excitement. But if you want to get on the rides, it's going to cost you. "First there were the disk drives. One wasn't enough — the well- equipped system should have at least two. And you couldn't just buy the drives, of course. There was also the matter of an interface card — one of a series of many-chipped crea- tures I was to encounter. I found that the going rale for these inter- face cards, whatever their function, always seemed to be 'a couple hun- dred dollars.' I gulped, realizing that I could be spending dozens of 'cou- ple hundred dollars. ' "1 began to get a sinking feeling in the pit of my budget. What about our family's vacation plans? How could 1 explain to them that we couldn't afford to go away this year because we had to buy an eight-inch hard disk drive instead?" I noticed that the pages of the let- ter began to be more and more tear- stained. 1 read on. "Oh. the peripherals were inge- nious, all right. They could do just about everything. One turned a 40- eolumn screen display into 80 col- umns. Another gave you extra mem- ory. There was another with the 48 KAMIl.Y COMMUTING ■/MM At last ... a computer magazine that talks to the kids who are talking the new language Right now, your kids are talking a new language: COMPUTER LANGUAGE. They're trying out new programs. Crossing new boundaries of com- munication. And experimenting with their computers' memory-the power oi K. And they're having fun doing it! That's why K-POWER'"-the brand new computer magazine for kids from Scholashc-is so important to your kids. Because it's packed with the same energy and excitement that makes pre-teens and teens want to learn all there is to know about comput- ers. With articles that teach them by asking them to take part-and be part of the future. Your kids will learn about exciting new programs-and ways to write their own. About the problems l#r other members of the computer generation are finding-and solv- ing. About the brightest new stars in the computer field-and about some very surprising new technology. And K-POWER'" is kids. With input from its own K-NET-an elec- tronic network of computing kids. Plus jokes, tips, book and software reviews, interviews, games and contests. K-POWER™ is where your computer-age kids will turn to learn. Give your kids K-POWER"" at a special Charter price. And right now, 12 issues of K- POWER™ -including the Premier Issue-are yours at the special Charter rate of only $15.97. That's over 30% off the cover price! Just mail in the coupon or attached post-paid card to subscribe today! "~^JS%^^ SAVE30_% NOW-get 12 monthly issues of K-POWER'"- beeinning with the spe- cial Premier Issue-at the special Charter rate of 515.97 (a savings of over 30% off the cover price!). D YES, please enter a 12 issue Charter subscription to K-POWER'" [ In my child's name. 1 understand that the I subscription will begin with the special I February 1984 Premier Issue. | I also understand that 1 may cancel my I I I satis- UP' child's subscription if not completely fled and receive a full refund for al mailed copies D Payment enclosed D Please bill me later | I I Child's name. Address , Age- City- State- . Zip- L Parent's Signature Return to: K-FOWER '" 730 Broadway New York, NY 10003 K-POWEK Is 1 Irjdi'nurk nl Scholjstu: Inc The magazine for the computer generation. LIGHT TOUCH exotic name of Z-80 that was not a turbocharged sports car, but anoth- er smorgasbord of chips that my friends said I really just had to have. There was even a "peripheral periph- eral"— a little fan that kept things from overheating with all those tur- bocharged cards back there. m^ks I got on the phone to or- der them all, 1 had to gasp for air several times. I distinctly remember the face of my VISA card turning into a hideous, satanic face that seemed to be saying, 'You'll be sorry!' "And these interfaces were only the beginning. Did I want to use my own TV set to see what my computer was saying? I couid. Ail I needed was an RF modulator — an item that worked fine, except that the screen display wasn't clear enough to u.sc with my word-processing program. No protilem. though. All I needed to buy was a monitor — a mere couple hundred more dollars (unless I want- ed color). As 1 clutched my month's paycheck in hand and left the house for the computer store, my wife and children looked at me with tears in thejr eyes. My four-year-old asked, 'Mommy, docs Daddy love the com- puter more than me?' "But still I forged ahead. Of course, I wanted to have printed copy, so all 1 needed was a printer. This little item (and, of course, its accompanying interface card) would only run me a couple thousand dol- lars, I cringed as I signed over my family's livelihood, wondering if Computer Hackers Anonymous might be opening a chapter in my community soon. "I did notice that the computer was helping me to balance my checkbook. After signing away a couple hundred dollars at a time, there wasn't much left to balance. What was left quickly went toward the printer memory buffer card (so 1 could print and work at the same time), a set of matching joysticks, and the endless varieties of software that seemed marvelous, yet which seemed to call for just one more pe- ripheral to make them work. "Finally, I said to my family, 'Enough! No more! Daddy isn't going to buy any more peripherals!' My children cheered. My wife wiped away a tear from her eye. With a new feeling of hope and excitement, I grabbed all of the wires from my sys- tem, and plugged them into the wall. I slid on the ON button, and watched in horror as the lights in PLAY AN ACTIVE PART IN YOUR CHILDREN'S COMPUTER EDUCATION ... Watch grades increase, they'll take more interest In school Send coupon for FREE COPY of just published 16 page catalog Offers 73 of the top programs being used in schools across the country. Programs cover a wide range of sub- jects, aconnplete range of grade levels. Your kids will benefit from the extra computer learning time you can give them at home! Programs developed for use with Apple II, Apple lie, TRS-80 ill microcomputers. MAIL COUPON BELOW THE WORLD ALMANAC Education Division 1278 West 9th Street Cleveland, OH 44113 Mail me your FREE 16 page EDUCATIONAL SOFTWARE "84 Catalog of 73 approved programs for classroom and home use. my house flickered and then blacked out. One last trip to the store to spend my last couple hundred dol- lars on a voltagc-rcgulator-powcr- shortagc-prcvcnter peripheral, and 1 IF THIS POOR FELLOW CHUCKED IT ALL ANDWENTTOUVEON AN ISLAND, THEN WHY IS THIS LETTER ON TRACTOR-FEED PAPER? was at last ready to start using my computer." Here, my correspondent evidently went insane. All kinds of the most unprintable language filled the next eight sheets, which he had scratched out with huge red Xs. On the last page, it read: "My system never did work. Some- thing in the system was down. And if you have ever tried to check which one of a dozen little peripherals aren't working, you'll know my frus- tration. I won't describe what hap- pened. A young child might be read- ing this letter. Suffice to say that it was not pretty. I don't think my neighbors will ever forget the sounds they heard from my house that night. But now all is fine. I have escaped the stresses of my former life. 1 have regained a calm, inner peace on this island paradise. " ■0ut wait a minute, 1 thought to myself. If this poor fellow chucked it all and went lo live on an island, then why is this letter on tractor- feed paper? Why the dot-matri.x printing? What kind of a system did he use to write it? There at the end of the letter it said: "Even though [ knew 1 was go- ing lo live on an island, I still want- ed to have a computer. So I traded in my whole system and bought a little portable thing with no peri- pherals. It computes, displays, and prints, all by ilsclf. 1 love it. The problem is, I'd like to find a modem that would be compatible with it, so I don't have to keep sending letters in bottles. ' I looked in the bottle, and there in the bottom were two crumpled up Si 00 bills. "I've enclosed my last couple hundred dollars to buy the modem," read the tearstained last sentence."! hope it covers the cost."iWi 50 KAMtl.Y COMI'irriNO ^UKl tsiche&tool d^cjo k i I GO That's an easy one: HesWare™ educational software. The children with the most answers in school are usually the children who enjoy learning. HesWare helps develop your child's interest in learning by making it fun. And along the way, develop familiarity and proficiency with computers — a skill that is becoming more and more essential to success. HesWare educational software combines enjoyment with a creative learning experience. Unlike video games, HesWare educational programs involve Vour child — and that keeps their interest. Whether it's creating colorful and artistic pictures with Turtle Graphics, making up funny faces with Pacemaker;™ or helping America's favorite canine, Benji, save kidnapped scientists (and learn about the solar system in the process,) or any of the programs in our education library, HesWare gives your children a positive attitude toward learning and technology It's not expensive to give your child a headstart on the future. HesWare programs are available for most popular home computers, including the Commodore VIC 20r Commodore 64]" Atari® and IBM? HesWare educational software. Just one of the ways HesWare is expanding the computer experience. And mm mmg expanding your child's horizons. Look for them at your Jw^CMSlfVI favorite software retailer. KKC^WmoK WS. Human Engineered Software, 150 North Hill Drive, Brisbane, CA 94005 800-227-6703 (in California 800-632-7979) Dept. C20 Pleases the tough customeK HesWare is a trsdernark of Human Enjineered Software. Facemakei is a tudemark of Spinnaker Software- VIC 20 and Comirodme 6* are trailematks of Comnrodore riectronics Ltd Atari is a registered trademark &f Atari, Inc ISM is a regrstered trademark of tniernalionat Business Machines. Ct983 » 1 : 9 ijj: 13 mV ■ 1 ^B .■'?Cr:«,.|.^-.-'-ii . ■ 31 m f^_0:fsi^iS[lp^-^-;^^ ■'?J^?*i*i ~-r-_/~ i»-i.'. '^"■■- "'■- '. - ■ ■"'"■. Now the excitement of original arcade graphics and sound effects comes home to your computer introducing ATARISOFI™ A new source for computer software. If you own a Commodore VIC 20 or B4, a Texas Instruments 99/4A, an IBM or an Apple II, you can play the original arcade hits. DONKEY KONG by Nintendo, CENTIPEDE™ PAC-MAN, DEFENDER, ROBOTRON: 2084, STARGATE and DIG DUG. [On the 11 9g/4A you can also play Protector II, Shamus, Picnic Paranoia and Super Storm. 3 So, start playing the original hits on your computer Only from ATARISOFT Some games also available on Coleco Vision and Intelfivision. Now your computer fits the arcade hits. DONKEY KOMG, Mano and NINTENDO are trademarks and © Nintendo 1381, 1983. PAC-MAN and characters are trademarks nf Baliy Midway Mfg. Co. sublicensed to Atari, Ire by Namcn- America. Inc.DEFENDEFIisa tradeTOirk of Willrams Electronics. Inc.. manufactured under license from WiHiams Electronics. Inc flOBOTHON: 20B4 is a trademark and O of Wlliams 1983. manu- factured under license from Williams Electronics, Inc STARGATE is a trademark and ® of Williams 19S1 . manufactured under license from Williams Electronics. Inc DIG DUG is created and designed by Namco Ltd. manufactured under license by Atan Inc Trade- marks and O Namco 1982. PROTECT DPI II is a trademark of Syn- apse Software Corporation, manufactured under license by Atari. Inc. SHAMUS IS a trademark of Synapse Software CarpDration, manufactured under license by Atari. Inc PICNIC PARAMOIA is a trademark of Synapse Software Corporation, manufactured by Atari, Inc SUPER STORM is engineered and designed by Synapse Software CorporatiDn. manufactured under license by Atan. Inc. ATARISOFT '" products are manufactured dy Atan. Inc. for use on the above referenced machines and are not made, licensed or approved by the manufacturers of these machines, COfi^MODDRE B4. VIC 30, TEXAS INSTRUMENTS 99/4A. IBM. APPLE, COLE- CO VISION and INTELLI VISION are respectively trademarks nf Commodore Electronics Limited, Texas Instruments. International Business Machines Co^. , Apple Computer Inc. . Coieco industries. Inc. and Mattel. Inc A © Warner Communications Company 0 19H3 Atan, Inc All nghts reserved I 1 CompleCe this coupon and we'd keep you up to date on the newest hits from ATARISOFT™ City State Zip Telephone PRODUCT OWNED: (Check one) □ T 1-99/4 A □ Commodore ViC 20 n IBM PC □ Inteiti vision I 1 Commodore 64 Q] Apple il I I ColecoVisEon Q Other Mail to: Atari. Inc., P.O. Box 2943, So. San Francisco, CA 94080. asms DiMeasiouM, iu.usTR.tTto.1 by brookte maxu'ell PHOTOGRAPHED BY AVTHOXV LOEW 54 FAMILY COMPUTING Way to Shop? BATTLING HOLIDAY CROWDS , /ONE'S FAVORITE WAY TO SHOP. NOW, THERE APPEARS TO BE AN ALTERNATIVE. BY JANE WOLLMAN here are two kinds of people. Those who begin their Christmas shopping well ahead of the season's first jingle bell. And those who wait until nearly Christmas Eve. DECEMBER I9B3 55 'ELECTRONIC SHOPPING HAS BEEN AN EASY WAY TO ACQUAINT THE FAMILY WITH COMPUTING." JANE WOLLMAN IS alSO tile author oj "How People and Machines Can Work in Harmony." Pan one was published in last month's issue; Part two appears in this issue. 56 FAMILY COMPUTING Dave Dolsen had always belonged to the second group. That's because shopping was one of his least favorite activities. And bucking holiday crowds made the chore even more of a hassle. But this year things are different. Dave started to gift shop early — and leisurely — from the comfort of his own home. This year. Dave is Christmas shopping by computer, and so are his wife. Jo Pat. and their two children, Wendy, 15. and Doug. 14. The Dolsens. who live in Pueblo. Colorado, are members of Comp-U-Store, a 24-hour shop- at-home service that offers a variety of brand- name products at substantial discounts. Comp-U-Store. the country's leading home shopping service, specializes in appliances and electronic devices, but you're likely to find al- most anything — from diamond earrings to box springs and mattresses — in its extensive list- ings that can appear on your computer's video display. The service, which offers as many as 50.000 different products at discounts ranging from 10 to 40 percent off retail list price, can be accessed from virtually any microcomputer or data terminal using a modem, a peripheral de- vice thai allows communication over phone lines. HOW TO SHOP There are several ways to find bargains on the Comp-U-Store data base: by browsing through its categories, such as video equip- ment, sporting goods, and cameras: by seeking price and feature information about particular models; by discovering what's available in a particular product area according to your fea- ture and price specifications; and by bidding on products in a nationwide weekly auction. Many people use Comp-U-Store — which was launched in 1981 under the name Comp-U- Star — mainly for comparison shopping to help negotiate low prices with local retailers. Products and prices on the big data base are updated daily. At the time of this writing, members could spend as little as S20 i'or a pen- and-pcncil set or as much as $4,000 for a pro- jection television system. A special section called the "Databascment" has super-duper bargains — such as a 25-inch console color TV for $399 or a 35mm automatic focus camera priced at Si 39. Right now. Comp-U-Store 's big- gest sellers arc videocassette recorders, dis- counted about 30 to 35 percent. Given Comp-U-Storc"s steep reductions, the money saved by buying even one major product each year could well be worth the S25 annual membership fee and time charges you're billed to hook into the system. Connect rates, ranging from eight and a third cents to 30 cents a minute. var>' according to time of day, your modem speed, and the way you enter the system — cither directly or through Compu- Serve, Dow Jones, or The Source information services. (You must join Comp-U-Store to buy. but you may use these networks to access the data base and browse around.) When you Ijccome a member of Comp-U- Store and sign up for direct access, instead of going through an Information service, you're issued an ID number and password, plus a membership number and an access code. To shop, you make sure your modem is properly hooked up, then dial a local number. When you hear a "connect" signal, you press co.N'TROL c on the keyboard, and the system will ask you to tvpe in your numbers and password, which links you to the Comp-U-Store comput- er. A screen will appear, saying welcome to COMP-U-STORE and your shopping can now begin. The whole process takes Just a couple of minutes. If you use an information service like The Source to gain access, the sign on procedure Is slightly altered, but it doesn't take much more time. Shopping is easy. To find the product you're looking for. you type in brief responses WHAT YOU CAN BUY Comp-U-Store now offers more than 50,000 name-brand products, and it continues to expand. At the moment, its offerings Include choices in the following categories: 1. Appliances. Air conditioners, dish- washers, refrigerators, sewing machines, and more. 2. Cameras and Optical Equipment. In- cluding special lenses, movie and slide pro- jectors, and binoculars. 3. Cars and Car Stereos. Everything from cassette decks to Corvettes. 4. Flatware and Crystal. 5. Luggage. 6. Sporting Goods. Bowling balls, golf clubs, tennis racquets, and tents and other camping equipment. 7. Stereos and Audio Equipment. Clock radios, turntables, receivers, etc. 8. TV and Video Equipment. 9. Other Electronics. Use your computer to buy another computer! Or a phone an- swering machine, radar detector, and com- puter accessories and software. 10. Miscellaneous. The most varied list of all: beds and box springs, power tools, lamps, string instruments, pianos, typewrit- ers, watches, and more. THE MONCr SAVED BY BUYING EVEN ONE MAJOR PRODUCT EACH YEAR COULD BE WELL WORTH THE $25 ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEE. to a series of on-scrccn menus. All ordering is also handled on-line, again by punching in ihc appropriate requested information; and mer- chandise may be either charged to your VISA or MasterCard account or paid by check. Pur- chases can be delivered amT.vherc in the U.S. Comp-U-Store. a division of the Stamfoi'd- bascd Comp-U-Card International, Inc.. has some 10,000 members nationwide. It carries no inventor}', but lists products from manufac- turers, wholesalers, and retailers, who ship or- ders directly to customers by United Parcel Ser- vice or by truck. Thus, the electronic service is able to keep prices low because it bears no overhead costs from stocking goods. (Comp-U- Storc gets a five percent commission on each order it processes.) INCREASING THE INVENTORY 13ave Dolsen, who has bought video game cartridges reduced by 30 percent as gifts, and crystal stemware at 25 percent below retail price, says he'd routinely purchase more from Comp-U-Store if it had a wider product selec- tion. Dave — and other armchair browsers — may be doing a lot more shopping since the service plans to add new categories soon and is also expanding its selection of computers and software programs. This year Comp-U-Slorc plans to add some special Christmas-time items to its merchan- dise mix, including gourmet food, wines and spirits, books, and bed and bath fashions. Comp-U-Storc says it offers 50 to 90 per- cent of products on the market within its 10 categories (see box). In addition, it regularly schedules specials on such items as women's and men's clothing — merchandise it does not maintain on the fixed roster. THE DRAWBACKS if there arc areas where Comp-U-Store falls short, they may lie in its product descriptions and delivery procedure. Some members, like Don Mahoncy of El Cajon, California, say the descriptive text accompanying some products tends lo be somewhat stingy. Since there are no illustrations, Mahoney complains, "this means you have to go out to a store to look at an item before ordering." Mahoney has used the service to buy sophisticated audio gear as gifts for friends and clients of his financial consulting firm. He occasionally buys equip- ment for the stereo store he owns, because Comp-U-Store 's prices beat other suppliers. A flip through the data base shows that specifics do vaiy, depending on the product. For instance, a generous amount of informa- tion is given about refrigerators, while nothing more than pattern names are supplied with listings of sterling silverware. One obvious solution, of course, is to pro- vide pictures as well as text. Although Comp-U- Store does plan to add photographs or possibly even video movies, this enhancement is at least five years away because of the difficulty of de- veloping a technology' ihat's'cconomically feasi- ble, according to E. Kirk Shclton. president of Comp-U-Card's electronic service division. When it comes to deliver>'. Comp-U-Store*s system is, in theory, commendable. You're sent an order confirmation indicating when to ex- pect the product— on average, within three weeks — and the name of the vendor supplying it. Frequently, though, delivery dates are missed and items arrive months after they've been ordered — and paid for. When there's a snafu, you arc given the option of wailing for the item, requesting a sub.stitutc, or canceling the order and receiving the refund. "The biggest problem is getting the ven- dors to have what Comp-U-Store says they have. " says Deborah Dellinger, of Stewarts- town. Pennsylvania, a member who had to wait months for some of the items she ordered. Nonetheless, she hopes to buy a grand piano through the service and is planning lo use Comp-U-Store for all her major Christmas pur- chases. According to Shclton, delivery glitches usually are caused by manufacturer product shortages, situations that surface some time after the companies have specified availability dates. "Often manufacturers lie or say they ex- pect to have the product." he says. "But what it boils down to is suppliers really not knowing how their production schedules will shape up." Another area of potential annoyance is re- turning products, since Comp-U-Store emphat- ically discourages exchanges. Therefore, it's a good idea to be sure the item you order is exactly what you want. "If there's a real prob- lem, we'll make a swap or refund your money," says Shelton, "but if you use a TV set for three months and then decide you don't want it. we won't take it back." Two of the best things about subscribing to Comp-U-Store: there's no minimum pur- chase obligation, and if you're not happy with the service, you can drop it any time and your S25 fee will be refunded. Dave Dolsen says that because of its practi- cal application, electronic shopping has been "an easy way to acquaint the family with com- puting." He now even refers to shopping — an activity that used to Irritate him — as "enter- taining and enjoyable." Not to mention convenient. 'Where else but "on line" can you go to buy a bowling ball at 8:00 in the morning? Bi WHERE ELSE CAN YOU BUY A BOWLING BALL AT 8:00 IN THE MORNING? DECEMBER 1983 57 The Layman's Guide to Word Processing THE ABCs OF WP, AND WHAT YOU NEED TO START. BY PETER McWILLIAMS PETER McWILLIAMS IS the author of The VJord Processing Book, Questions & Answers on Word Processing, and Word Processing on the IBM, all published by Prelude Press. 58 FAMILY COMI'UTING ILLLSTILWiOX BY GEORGE BOOTH I n business, the typing pool has been re- placed with the WP Department. "WP," of course, stands for Word Processing. Two short years ago. when I started writing about word processing, even many publishers didn't know what it was. "What's word processing?" they asked. We've all leatned a lot. Today, almost everyone knows that word processing has something to do with using a machine to write, just as food processing has something to do with using a machine to chop. But word processing, really, has nothing to do with machines. Word processing takes place in the human mind. Selecting words to fit a concept, then arranging and rearranging those words until they form a sentence, is what word processing is all about. The machines — from wax tablet and stylus, to pen and ink. to type- writer, to computer — are simply there to help us remember what's already been processed. Personal computers offer the best method yet for recording the processing of the mind. They allow change so easily. Take the composi- tion of a simple note to accompany your son to the store: "Give one pound of hamburger to Billy." You look at the sentence and decide you'd like to start off the note with "Please," and add the word "lean" before hamburger. If using pen and paper, you might be able to sneak in the "Please," but the "lean" is more troublesome. Most people don't want to rewrite the note (Bil- ly already has his coat on and is waiting as patiently as Billy can), so the butcher is treated to: "Please Give one pound of hamburger to Billy. (Lean.)" With a computer and a word-processing program, the note appears on the computer's screen before it's printed. Adding I'i.ease, mak- ing the "G" in GIV'K lowercase, and adding lean before ha-Mburger is an easy task. When it looks right on the screen, you can print it and Billy is on his way. Now, I'm not suggesting you use a comput- er to correspond with your grocer. Notepads and pencils will be around well into the 21 si century. But how about correspondence to friends, relatives, members of Congress, and teachers? Wouldn't the ability to change things around come in handy? SECOND DRAFTS A BREEZE As any professional writer will tell you. clarity in writing comes from rewriting. Few authors are satisfied with their "first draft." Similarly, most people are not satisfied with the first draft of a letter, but they send it any- way: recopying is such a chore. And because they're not satisfied with first drafts, many people postpone important letters — sometimes indefinitely. With a word processor, second, third, cind fourth drafts are easy. Words, sentences, and paragraphs can be removed, rearranged, or added with ease. When it looks right, you can even run a program that will cheek your spell- ing and punctuation, and point out possible grammatical errors, before printing the final copy. Kids, loving computers as they do, are far more likely to learn the fundamentals of good writing with a word processor than with pencil and paper. GERSHWIN'S PIANO When the specter of a teacher saying. "This paper is messy with all these crosscuts — copy it over," is removed, kids can experiment with style, alteration, editing. In short, they can be creative. Who knows what budding geniuses are just waiting for a tool that removes all the paperwork from writing. I often wonder what might have happened to George Gershwin if his brother Ira had not been given a piano. For young children, computerized word processing is particularly appealing. Generally, a child's ability to grasp a language develops faster than his or her ability to hold a pencil and make the intricate symbols of our alpha- bet. Pushing the button marked "A" on a key- board takes far less manual dexterity than forming the letter "a" on a piece of paper. With a computer, a child's mind is not held back by the still-developing physical coordination. Further, word processing teaches kids (and parents) the fundamentals of a computer and keyboard far better than, say, BASIC pro- gramming. Most kids will need to write letters and reports far more frequently than they'll need to write programs. Not only is writing made easier (and better] with a word processor, but writing the same thing to several people is a breeze, The next time you return from vacation, you'll need to write about your adventures only once. After printing Aunt Fanny's letter, all you need do is change dear aunt fanny, to dear uncle louie, and Uncle Louie gets a personalized letter of his own. For those not in Ihc letter-writing habit, and for those who have as many rela- tives as I do. this feature alone will save you a year or two over a lifetime. Some programs will change the name and address automatically. If you're politically ac- tive, you can send a letter expressing your views to evcrv'one in Congress in the lime it once look you to write only four or five letters. On a smaller scale, with a mailing list of your friends on a computer, you can send out per- sonalized invitations, thank you notes, and Christmas letters in less time than it once took you to address the envelopes. THE SIX BASIC ELEMENTS OF WORD PROCESSING Now don't let the dozens (sometimes) of features some word-processing programs offer intimidate you. To successfully and happily do word processing on a computer, you need to know only six things: WHO KNOWS WHAT BUDDING GENIUSES ARE JUST WAITING FOR A TOOL THAT REMOVES ALL THE PAPER- WORK FROM WRITING. DECEMBER 1983 59 ANY HOME COM- PUTER IS A MORE POWERFUL WRITING MA. CHINE THAN EVEN THE MOST EXPENSIVE ELEC- TRIC TYPE- WRITER. 1. How to open (start) a file. 2. How to insert text. 3. How to delete text. 4. How to move the cursor around. 5. How to close (end) a file. 6. How to print a file. Everything else in word processing comes under the heading of Extra Added Features — which you may want, but you do not need. Knowing how to do these six things will make your home computer more powerful than even the most expensive electric typewriters. Why? Opening a file on a typewriter means putting in a sheet of paper. That's not so hard. Then, the text entered is tjped directly onto that sheet. So far, so good. But. deleting text from a sheet of paper is hard. It often means starting from scratch again. Deleting text on a computer is easy; you just type over the text you want to delete, or move the cursor around to erase. Therein lies the advantage of comput- erized word processing over typewriting: Change on computers is effortless. Furthermore, on most typewriters, if you want a second copy printed, you insert another sheet of paper and start typing it all over again. If you want a second copy printed on a comput- er, you push a button, WORDS, WORDS, WORDS In addition to all the other bits of computer Jargon, here arc a few terms you're likely to stumble across on the path from typewriting to word processing: File> A file is the method the computer uses to store a collection of words. It can be anything from a shopping list to The Great American Novel. Think of it as an empty Hie folder into which you can put as many (up to the amount limited by the computer's memory) or as few words as you like. Word Wrap. This sounds like something you put around your words to keep them fresh — sort of a Saran Wrap for writers. In fact, word wrap refers to the ability of most word- processing programs to begin new lines auto- matically. Anyone who has used a typewriter knows that as the end of each typewritten line approaches, a bell dings and you must manual- ly indicate when and where the next line be- gins. With word wrap, the computer listens for its own internal bell and starts a new line with- out troubling you. Chpracters. A character is any number, letter, or punctuation mark. Justification. No, this is not a set of good reasons why you need a word processor. It re- fers to the margins and whether they are straight (justified) or not straight (ragged). Most typewriters produce justified left margins and ragged right. Some word-processing pro- grams can produce both justified left and right margins, making the printed text more resem- ble a book. Most people turn off the right justi- fication for correspondence: it's a dead give- away that you're using a computer. Block. Any group of words in your file that you select. Once a block is marked, you can move it, copy it, add it to another file, or get rid of it altogether. Insertion. This allows you to insert a word, sentence, or paragraph anywhere In the text. It also allows you to read another file into the file you are currently working on. Your va- cation, for example, might be in a file named 1NDIA.\'A. While writing a letter, when you got to the point where you wanted to tell Aunt Harriet about your glorious two weeks in Grand Bend, you could add Indiana. (The original file Indiana remains intact for future letters, memoirs, and National Geographic articles.) Search and Replace. This feature allows you to find any word or phrase in the file and replace it with any other word or phrase. If this year's vacation was very much like last, yosem- ITE could be replaced by disneylakd in your an- nual vacation letter in a matter of seconds. Printer Controls. These arc various in- structions ("controls" or "commands") sent to the printer by the computer while a file is printing. It tells the printer to underline, bold- face, do subscripts [the 2 in H2O), superscripts (the 2 in E = mc2). or carry out other special print functions. In other words, these com- mands format the words on your screen so they are printed out the way you want. That is, assuming your printer can do the things you want. WHAT YOU NEED TO START To do word processing at home, you'll need a computer, a word-processing program, and some kind of printer. In putting together your writing machine, there are a few other details to consider. Keyboard. The most important part of a computer for word processing is the keyboard. The easiest keyboards to use are real key- boards, such as the ones found on electric typewriters. Flat keyboards, such as those found on the Timcx Sinclair 1000 or the Atari 400, make processing more difficult — although not impossible. Some computers have little rubber keys, known as chiclet keys, because they look and feel like Chiclets chewing gum. Although word processing with chiclet keys is possible, regular keyboards (with what are sometimes known as "full travel" keys) are preferable. Screens. Screens are also important, Your TV will provide an acceptable canvas for your prose if you write only a few letters a week. If, however, you're planning a magnum opus, you might want to invest in a monochrome moni- tor. Not only is monochrome (green-and-white, say, rather than color) easier on the eyes, the characters tend to be sharper, thus easier to read and work with. On some computers, the screen displays only 16 lines, and for some people this is 60 KAM1LY COMPUTING ESC FOR MENU sf£»r?ifHf^gsm ???s>i«'_"«« nOBY DICK Chapter 1 By Hirmn Htlvillc a little and see the uateru part of the uorld. It is a nay I nave of cfriuins off the spleen^ and resulatina the circulation. Mheneuer I find Huself 9rouing 9riii about the Nouth; uhtfieuer it is a danpj drizzly Mouenber in ny soulj uheneucr I find , [l matm Immi t It Ham IrlfM Ibi Mt tml^ Urn OfHtn* CtrKin* Mil-tM^ Hrl-r (If n>Hi (K-^ Orl-I (UJ> OrhT CtfM CliHflMf C«>l-\ ta Cbl-* 11. kMa WtliM« IWif .1- tHHf Mf nil liri^ CtrHf llaf ton «-l Ctrhlin)— (Irl-lini^ OrM ■If m^- 1 .If (RHb I -it CK^ 1 *H!M CM-< •>»lt ta> eirt« ■••It n>Hi .11 ll_ 1M«0 ^ta .tiM .t*i«a» 1 .fa l««M 1 °*" tmi^ uwmi umt enough. Those who write frequenlly might pre- fer lo ssec 24 lines (about half a typewritten page) displayed at once. Printers. There are two basic types of printers most commonly used for word pro- cessing at home: dot-matrix and letter-quality. Dot-matrix printers form letters and numbers using little dots, like the signs at banks dis- playing the time and temperature. Letter-quaJi- ty printers print fully formed characters, one after another, like an electric tiTDewriter does. Dot-matrLx printers are fairly inexpensive, print fast, and produce acceptable but far from elegant, results. Letter-quality printers cost more, print more slowly, but produce better results. Storage. Also necessary is some kind of storage device — either a cassette tape recorder or a disk drive (or two). Disk drives are certain- ly preferable, but thousands of people word process on cassettes every day. Disks generally hold more information, and can access that Information faster. Disks also lend to be more reliable than cassettes. The amount of storage capacity is mea- sured in kilobytes, or Ks. One double-spaced, typewritten page of text, with generous mar- gins, equals about 2K. If a disk holds lOOK, for example, it will store about 50 pages of text. WORD-PROCESSING PROGRAMS— A CADILLAC OR A CHEVY? Word-processing programs are available for almost every personal computer made. They range in power from "it-might-be-easier-if-you- did-this-by-hand" types to those with more fea- tures than you'd need to run an office. CK»pt«r 1 Bu Harnan HcluiUc Call N« Ishnael. Sone years aao — ntvtr Hind how long precisely — having little or no Honev in ny pursti and rticul ■ - - : IS tne nam character s naner are weather and tine inportant? is he happy? hou old is he? HQBV DICKi- Byf Heritan Helvillev Call He IshHael. SoMe years ago — , J never Hind hou Ions precisely — having, i little or no Honey in Hy purse, and not,, Ihing particular to interest He on shore, i, I thought t would sail about a little alV .nd see the watery part of the world. It*' j is a way I have a driving off the splee n, and regulating the circulation. I*ien ewer I find Myself growing grin about th > e Houth; whenever I find nyself inuolunt L i^ariiy pausing before coffin warehouses, and bringing up the rear of every funerSu, I I neet; and especially whenever mi hypIF J?5^?»t such an upper hand of t»e, that it If you arc a professional vifriter, or plan lo do business correspondence from home, you should consider the purchase of a full-feature computer with word processing. These pack- ages run — complete with letter-quality print- er—from S2.300 to more than $5,000. In this category you might want to investigate either the Morrow or the Kaypro. These are fine ma- chines, readily available, and great values — es- pecially when you consider that the purchase price includes enough free software to open your own store. Both machines come with WordStar, a program that has become the standard for high-powered word processing on personal computers. If, on the other hand, you write a few let- ters a month, and the kids do fewer than one report for school each week, a simple program on whatever general family computer you've chosen (or arc thinking of choosing) will be fine. If you already have a printer, a basic word- processing program should add no more than S200 to the price of your computer. Almost every word-processing program — even the ones costing S29.95 — will offer you the six functions necessary for word process- ing. AH other features are luxury' options, but some find certain luxury options — such as air- conditioning — invaluable. Word processing may or may not change your life. It will almost certainly change your correspondence (probably for the better). For some, word processing is the central use of a home computer. For others, it's just another helpful task the personal computer can per- form. If you write more than a letter or school report a week, you'll be glad word processings entered your life. 1. The HAN'K -STREET w'Ttnrji guides (he user through any one of its wriiing. editing, or priming modes with questions above the text. Here, you merely type "Y" or "N" (o tell the computer whether you want the highlighted text erased. If you make a mistake, you can then "undelete" the erasure. Bank Street Writer. /or Atari 800 and Apples, has a 40-columri screen display. 2. .APPLE WRITER II. /or Apple U plus and lie. also has a 40-column screen display, which can be expanded to 80 with an 80-column card installed. It has a rare split-screen Jeature, which allows you to show two parts of one textJUc on screen at once, To ansiver the questions sliown here, a student can "scroll" through the text of Moby Dick on the top half of the screen tojind the answers. 3. FiKWRnr.K. for Apples and the IBM PC. has an 80-column screen display. S/!oii>n here is a HELP menu. If you're ivriting aJUe andjorget how to set a margin tab. or how to scroll the cursor down, you can switch to the HELP menu tojind the proper command. 4p paperclip. /or the Commodore 64. has a 40-column screen display, but lacks the sophisticated word- wrap capability of most ivord-processing programs. Notice that words are broken unnaturally at the end of a fine instead of carried over injull. For instance, the is broken into th on one line, and E on the next. Paperclip as shown here is In the "search and replace" mode: At the top oj the screen it asks, search STRING? You can answer with any word, and the program will then ask, REPLACE string? To give an example, you can change the word i to me throughout the text. DECEMBER 1983 61 Features to Look for in a Word- Processing Program While all word-processing programs allow the six main functions noted In the main article — opening and closing files, inserting and deleting text, moving text around, and printing out — some implement these functions more con- veniently and faster than others. The realistic approach is to test as many word-processing programs as possible before buying, and to do so with some knowledge of what the state of the art in word processing can provide. Remember that no program will overcome entirely the limitations of your computer, such as lack of lowercase letters, lack of shift key, or a small screen display. To change these things, the hardware must be modified. Outlined below is a list of what we feel are desirable features in a word processor. Few, if any. of the word- processing programs available for microcomputers Imple- ment all these features, though some come very close lo, or actually surpass, all our standards. WHAT YOU SEE IS WHAT YOU GET: The best word processors display on-scrccn what will ultimately appear in the final printed document. Thus, underlined text appears underlined, centered text appears centered, screen margins duplicate print margins, etc. ONE MODE OPERATION: For maximum convenience, all writing and editing func- tions of a word-processing program should be accessible within a single "write-edit" mode. Having to switch into a special "edit" mode to make simple corrections is time consuming. COMMANDS: All but the most complex functions of a word processor should be accessible through simple (preferably one- or two-keystroke! commands. When CTRL/key combinations are used (pressing the control key in combination with one other key), the combinations should be chosen sensi- bly. For example, pressing CTRL/I for "insert" and CTRL/D for "delete" makes more sense than pressing CTRL/Q and CTRL/: for these same functions. HELP MENUS: Explanations of functions and the commands needed to implement them should be available to the user when editing a file. Some programs require that you exit the file and go to a main menu, or consult the manual. IDIOT PROOFING: The user should be required to verify, with a "yes" or "no," before any potentially destructive functions (block delete, file delete, clear buffers, etc.) are carried out. FILE COMPATIBILITY: Text files created by a word-processing program should be stored to disk in a format normally readable by the computer. For example, it is convenient to be able to edit BASIC programs with the word processor, then store these files to disk and be able to load them directly for running. MOVING THE CURSOR: Cursor-control keys serve to move the cursor by a single space or line. Simple commands should allow "scrolling" of text up and down, and fast movement to the beginning or end of text. ADDING TEXT: Its possible to insert or add text anywhere in the docu- ment in two ways. The preferable method is by overstrik- ing existing text, which automatically deletes it. The sec- ond choice is to insert new text, then delete the old text. DELETING TEXT: All word processors can delete single letters to the left and right of the cursor by a single keystroke. Additional and praiseworthy features on some programs include: de- letion of single word, sentence, paragraph, or block with one or two keystrokes maiximum. MOVING TEXT: This amounts to "cut and paste" editing. It should be possible to move a fair-sized block of text from one section of a document lo another by a simple process of highlight- ing the block using the cursor and Issuing a "cut" com- mand: then moving the cursor to the point of insertion and issuing a "paste" command. Ideally, both "cut" and "paste" commands should be supported by dedicated function keys. A similar highlighting procedure should allow block deletion and block copying. A verj' advanced feature is the ability to take a block of text from one document file and Insert it in another. FILE-MANAGEMENT FUNCTIONS: A word-processing program should be able to provide the user with an index of the files contained on the cur- rent document disk. It should be possible to rename files, wrlte-protcct them (preventing accidental erasure), as well as delete them after verification, The word processor should also be able to initialize and format diskettes as required by the operating system. PRINTING FUNCTIONS: All programs allow you to print out a file document after you've finished writing, editing, and storing it. Some pro- grams allow you to do much more. On these, It's possible to configure the program to support a variety of printers. Simple print functions such as boldface and underlining should be supported cither by on-screen formatting or by codes imbedded in text. It should be possible to alter margins, linespacing, pilch, and justification of the print- ed document, as well as to add headers and foolers, from within the word processor. Special features of a particular printer should be made accessible by allowing printer con- trol codes to be embedded in text. DOCUMENTATION: The bottom line. Even a great word-processing program can be undermined by poor documentation. If possible, don't let the salesperson walk you through the demonstra- tion. Pick up the manual and try to figure things out for yourself. While it's true that any word processing will lake a week or so to get used to. you want to know that you'll be able to use it again easily after a long layoff. 62 FAMILY COMPUTING POPULAR WP PROGRAMS BY COMPUTER The following summary reviews cover the most popular word-processing programs for the various computers listed here. For Apple, IBM, Commodore, and the CP//\A format there are many more programs available. But, when shopping around, you may want to look at the standards first. APPLE WP PROGRAMS As in most software categories, a long line of word- processing programs Is available for Apple computers. Ap* pie Wriler II, Screenwriter 11, and Bank Street Writ- er arc the most popular made- for- Apple programs, and with the addition of an 80-column card and aCP/M disk, high-powered packages (such as WordStar) will run. On the Apple II plus, all these programs work much more efficiently with a shift-key modification, though it's a S50 operation that voids the Apple warranty. Without the modification, making capital letters is an arduous, annoying process. The Apple He comes factory-built with a regular typewriter-style shift key. Apple Writer 11 Is a satisfactory program, and relative- ly easy to use, though it is not particularly powerful. You cannot "overwrite" text, but must first delete the error and then insert new text. And, when working on one file, you cannot get a disk directory of other files without rebooting the master disk. However, it does have a good HELP menu, with a list of commands. With an 80-column board installed, it provides 80 columns of text. And it has a rare split-screen feature, which allows you to display two por- tions of one file (the beginning and the end, say) on the screen at one time. Screenwriter 11 is somewhat more powerful, and offers a 70-column screen display without an 80-column board. This is a major plus. It also permits intricate print for- mats, including underlining, and footnotes. In some cases, however, the same function, such as inserting text, has two different control commands, depending on the mode you're writing in. This takes some getting used to, and can be annoying. So can the slow process of loading and saving a file, and the slow response time to keyboard commands. Nonetheless, many users consider Screen- writer II to be the best word-processing program written specifically for the Apple. It will do almost anything the average user could want. Bank Street Writer, developed for children but power- ful enough for adults, is probably the easiest word-pro- cessing program on the market to learn and use. Five or 10 minutes and you'll be off. There's a command directory at the top of the screen above the text, so you always know what "mode" you're in (erase, delete, move. etc.). Its ques- tion-and-answer routines make giving print commands a snap, and it adapts automatically to most printers. The drawbacks: a 40-column screen display, and the need to shift into different modes every time you want to move the cursor. This can slow down the fleet-fingered. But, all in all, it's a snappy program that establishes a new standard in its price range. At the opposite extreme is Pie Writer, a very powerful package with a lot of functions and commands — too many, probably, for the average user. But many of the commands are quite simple — "E" for edit, "C" for catalog, etc. — and if you want to go further you can. With an 80- column card. Pie Writer permits display of 128 charac- ters; the screen scrolls to the right to let you see more than 80. This is most useful if you need to make charts. At its price (S149), it's a lot of power for the dollar. Pf S: Write, part of the PFS family of business programs, is also at- tractively priced at SI 25. APPLE WRITER II: Apple Computer Inc., 20525 Mariani Ave., Cupertino,, CA 95004; $150; S195 for Apple lie ver- sion. BANK STREET WRITER: Broderbund. 1938 Fourth St.. San Rafael. CA 94901; S95: available for Apple and Atari. SCREENWRITER II; Sierra On-Line, 36575 Mudge Ranch Rd., Coarsegold, CA; 93614; SI 25. PIE WRITER: Hayden Software Co., 600 Suffolk St.. Lowell, MA 01853: $150. PFS: WRITE; Software Publishing Corp.. 1901 Landings Dr., Mountain View, CA 94043; $125; lie only. ATARI WP Although comparable in raw power to the Apple 11 plus, the Atari computer is not widely supported with word- processing software. Yet the few Atari word-processing packages that exist are all fairly complete, friendly, full- functioned tools. Of these, the best is Letter Perfect. Driven largely by CTRL/Kcy combinations, Letter Perfect has a full range of block-move and copy commands, as well as global search and replace, screen justification, tabbing, insert and overstrike modes, and a variety of delete functions. Epson, Atari, Diablo, and Qume printers are supported on-line, and the software can easily be configured to work with others. Letter Perfect comes in both disk and car- tridge format, the disk format in two versions, one sup- porting the Bit-3 80-column card. The program is compatible with a range of powerful subsidiary software for data-base management and list- processing applications. Its only weaknesses are the poor quality of its documentation and the fact that its files are incompatible with those of Atari DOS. However, publisher LJK sells an Inexpensive disk-utility program allowing the transfer of files from LJK DOS to Atari DOS and the reverse, as well as file merging. PROGRAMS The Atari Word Processor is also a fairly powerful program, though less economical of memory than Letter Perfect. Disk-based, it demands a minimum of 48K memory. Command menus appear on-screen with text. The editor has a full range of cursor-move, block-move, search, and replace commands, plus a variety of insert and delete options and an "undo-dclctc" function. In edit- ing, text Is formatted to 80 columns: the Atari's 40-col- umn screen scrolls over it horizontally. This prevents the user from seeing entire lines of text, but allows reliable "what you see is what you get" print formatting from within the edit mode. Documentation is excellent, and a disk tutorial is in- cluded, along with a narrative audio cassette. Unfortu- nately, Word Processor supports only the Atari dot-ma- trix and letter-quality printers; owners of other printers buy at their own risk. AtariWriter, also by Atari, is a cartridge-based proces- sor. Within its editor, AtariWriter is largely command- driven via CTRL/Key combinations. There are no HELP menus. AtariWriter formats text in 40 columns, but aside from this limitation, preserves most of the editing functions of the Atari Word Processor, including the DECEMBER 1983 63 handy "undo-delete" function. AlnriWriter supports both Atari and Epson printers (and compatibles), and has some exotic print features, including a double-column printing format. Text files may be saved either on disk or tape, and transferred freely from one to the other. Docu- mentation is quite good. Text Wixard. by Datasoft, is comparable In some re- spects to Letter Perfect — it is a high-quality, full-func- tion word processor at an attractive price. Disk-based, the program is entirely compatible with Atari DOS, and can be used as a program text editor. Text Wizard is largely command-driven, both within the editor and in other function areas. Menus are conspicuously sparse in this program, though command structures are logical and can be memorized easily. Text Wizard formats text on-screen in 40 columns. Files may be merged, and portions of text moved from one file to another quite conveniently — an advanced feature. Output formatting is very powerful, ac- complished by imbedding control characters in text. Print margins can be set with unusual precision, and double- column printing is possible. Documentation is clear, con- cise, and gives full explanations of all commands, along with examples. ATARIWRITER; Atari. P.O. Box 61657. Sunnyvale, CA 94086: S99,95, ATARI WORD PROCESSOR; Atari, address above; S149.95. LETTER PERFECT; LJK Enterprises, P,0, Box 10827. St. Louis. MO 63129: S99; Atari 400/800 (Apple II plus/lie version SI 49.95). TEXT WIZARD; Datasoft. 9421 Wtnnetka Ave.. Chats- worth. CA 91311; S49.95; Atari 400/800. CQMMODORE 64 and The Commodore 64 is a powerful and popular computer with sophisticated graphics capabilities. It is not surpris- ing, therefore, that quite a few word-processing packages are available for it. What is surprising is the almost uni- formly mediocre quality of these products. Some seem to have been adapted more or less directly from software designed for the older, less capacious VlC-20 — and most have weaknesses that make them inappropriate tools for the serious writer. An important point to note when shopping for a C-64 or VIC word-processing package is whether or not the soft- ware supports the Commodore RS-232 port. Use of this port is required for most letter-quality printers. Many of the word-processing programs for the Commodore com- puters support only the Commodore serial port as a device driver. In effect, this means that only Commodore print- ers, or others compatible with the Commodore serial pro- tocols, may work with these programs. Quicit Brown Fox is a cartridge-based word processor available for VIC-20, Commodore 64, and a variety of other computers. QBF allows use of the RS-232 port with a few minor restrictions. There are separate modes for text en- try and editing; moreover, editing is line-based and some- what clumsy. However, all common editing functions are available, and the program includes some advanced text- management functions, such as the inclusion of standard "boilerplate" paragraphs from common disk files. Print formatting is by imbedded control characters, and overall print control is menu-driven. Unusually powerful in some respects and surprisingly weak in others. Paper Clip, available in disk format for the Commodore 64, is among the most expensive [SI 25) of the C-64 word processors. Its producers have adopted an unusual form of copy-protection; Unauthorized copies of the program will not run without the insertion of a special device — included in the package — into the front joystick port of the computer. Paper Clip allows text entry in a variety of "virtual" screen widths, ranging from 40 to 124 columns. It allows full-screen editing; however, text breaks unevenly at the ends of screen lines, and attempts to manually reformat this text to improve on-screen readability will ruin the VIC'20 WP PROGRAMS appearance of the text as it is printed out. Among Paper Clip's more advanced features are column editing (allow- ing definition of a mid-screen column of text or figures as an edit block), the ability to add columns of figures imbed- ded in text, and insertion of boilerplate text from common disk files. Text may be stored on disk or cassette tapes. Easy Script 64. by Commodore, is available in both disk and cartridge formats for the C-64. The program suffers from the same lack of true word-wrapping as does Paper Clip — but otherwise seems to be marginally supe- rior to the more expensive program in ease of use and versatility, particularly in formatting printed output. Easy Script's editor allows the usual cursor-move, block- move, and copy. Insert, and delete functions. Subsidiaiy programs for file-management applications, such as merges and mailing lists, are available to the user on the program disk, and may be selected from the main Easy Script menu. A wide variety of printers, including RS- 232C systems, work with Easy Script. Its documentation is unusually comprehensive, HESWriter is available In formats for both VlC-20 and Commodore 64. The program is cartridge -based, and does not support the RS-232 interface in its current version. Least expensive of the word processors reviewed here. HESWriter nevertheless supports a full range of func- tions, including word wrap, copying and block moves, string search, and a variety of deletes — and allows full- screen editing. HESWriter files may be freely merged, and may be stored to disk or tape. Print formatting is accom- plished via control characters embedded in text, and the range of print control functions is extensive. A best-seller. EASYSCRIPT 64; Commodore Inc.. 1200 Wilson Dr.. West Chester, PA 19380; $80; Commodore 64. HESWRITER; Human Engineered Software, 71 Park Lane. Brisbane. CA 94005; S39 (VIC-20); $49 (Commo- dore 64). PAPERCLIP: Batteries Included. 71 McCaul St., Toron- to, Ontario, Canada M5T2X1: SI 25: Commodore 64. QUICK BROWN FOX; 548 Broadway. Suite 4F, New York. NY 10012; S65; VIC-20. Commodore 64. CP/M WP To take care of basic business, such as transmitting information to the screen and memory, a computer de- pends upon its operating system program. Most home computers run their own, proprietary operating systems, making one brand of computer functionally incompatible with others. Over the past several years, however, several microcomputer operating system standards have PROGRAMS emerged. Of these, the most widely used is the CP/M oper- ating system (Control Program for Microcomputers), avail- able on a wide variety of machines that use the Z-80 microprocessor. Computers designed primarily for busi- ness, such as Osborne. Kaypro. and North Star, were built around CP/M, But. many general-purpose computers can operate in the CP/M mode with the addition of a Z-80 64 FAMILY COMPUTING circuit board and a CP/M program on disk. And, if you want a professional word-processing program, you'll prob- ably have to turn to a CP/M program. WordStar is one of the best word processing programs around. Put simply, WordStar can do almost anything any other word-processing program can do and has be- come the standard by which others are measured. Ifs not cheap ($495), it's not particularly easy to learn, and It's certainly not for everyone — but if you're considering any serious and ongoing writing, printing, and/or mailing, look here first. One particularly nice feature is that you can display the command menus on-screen with the text when in the training-wheel stage, and banish them to the nether world of the computer's memory when you're in second gear. They're still only a button away. WordStar requires two disk drives. Perfect Writer's not far behind, and it's cheaper. Though it can do almost anything, some people find it a cumbersome program to learn, and to print out from. It's recommended only for those who know their way around a CP/M system. Peachlext may be a compromise between WordStar and Perfect Writer. Its functions satisfy the needs of both semi-ocassional and professional users, and it's rela- tively easy to learn and use. But it has several configura- tions, and a specific 80-column card and printer must be specified for the dealer's special installations. PERFECT WRITER: Computer Services Corp. of Ameri- ca, 1400 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, CA 94709; CP/M, IBM PC; S395. WORDSTAR: MicroPro International, 33 San Pablo Ave., San Rafael, CA 94903; S494; CP/M: two disk drives re- quired. PEACHTEXT: Peachtree Software, 3 Corporate Square #700, Atlanta, GA 30329: S500: CP/M. IBM PC WP There's no shortage of word-processing programs for the IBM PC. Both WordStar and Pie Writer, mentioned above, are configured to run on the IBM. IBM's own word- processing program, Easy Writer 1. is an improved ver- sion of Easy Writer, which was originally published for the Apple. Better than both of these is Easy Writer 11. It's great for screen formatting (with tabs, margin sets), and the hard copy printout is identical. PFS: Write, a companion package to the popular PFS: File data-base program and other PFS programs, can merge data from these programs. It requires an IBM PC with 128K RAM, and two disk drives are recommended. One nice feature: What you see on the screen is what you get when you print. The new word-processing program from Microsoft, the company that provided IBM's MS DOS operating program. is called Microsoft: Word. It's already considered one of the best around. You can work in eight different screen PROGRAMS "windows" at one time, allowing you to write from notes. And you can write in three columns. One of the more popular PC programs, especially for those who don't need to merge mailing lists with their word-processing flics, is Volkswriter. Since a lot of peo- ple use it, it's not hard to find help at a PC users group. And in the low-cost category there's Wordvislen, a $50 package. EASY WRITER II; Information Unlimited Software; 281 Arlington Ave., Berkeley, CA 94707 VOLKSWRITER; Lifetree Software, Inc., 177 Webster St. #342, Monterey. CA 93940; $195. PFS WRITE; Software Publishing Corp., 1901 Landings Dr.. Mountain View. CA 94043: S140. WORDVISION; Bruce & James. 4500 Tuller Rd„ Dublin. OH 43017; S50. MICROSOFT WORD; Microsoft. 10700 Northup Way, Bellevue, WA 98004: S395. Tl WP PROGRAMS Shopping for a TI word-processing program Is easy — ^you have only one choice. Tl Writer, a program in plug-in cartridge form, is published by Te.\as Instruments. Be- sides the cartridge, you need a disk to store text flies. Peripheral expansion box, disk drive, and 32K RAM card (S550) required. Tl WRITER: Texas Instruments, P.O. Box 10508, Lub- bock. TX 74908: S99 MINI Ti WRITER: Texas Instruments; SI 9.95: on cas- sette; 4K mini-memory required. TRS-80 WP When TRS-80 users talk about word processing, the program most often mentioned is Scripsit. This Is mostly because the Radio Shack program has been around longer than most others, and has satisfied most everyone. It runs on the Model I, III. and 4, and. in the Color Scripsit version, on the Color Computer. It's not a fancy word- processing program — it has no HELP menus, cannot move a block of text, and is not particularly good on print formatting — -but it's competent and dependable. SuperScripsit, however, the newer, upgraded version, takes care of most of these drawbacks, and it has a HELP menu. Ditto for Daisy, a "patch" program designed to be used in conjunction with Scripsit. Palsy can handle very complex print formats, and is a must for those who want to create technical reports of any kind. A more powerful program than Scripsit, and a great value at SI 25, is Newscrlpt. Among other things, it has a built-in spelling-checker program, and allows you to print files in special character fonts. Underlining, boldface and other print formats are also available. Newscrlpt's power is easily harnessed, with its Primary Options Menu and various HELP menus. It's a well thought-out pro,gram. PROGRAMS Electric Pencil, one of the first word-processing pro- grams ever published, is also good value for the money (S79). It's been refined several times to keep tip with the market, and can be thought of as TRS-80 users' answer to Bank Street Writer. Like Scripsit, it comes up in con- versation, and don't overlook little Zorlof . which is slower than Scripsit but excells at print formatting. DAISY: Med Systems Software. P.O. Box 3558, Chapel Hill, NC 27514; $75: TRS-80 Model I, III, and 4. ELECTRIC PENCIL; IJG Inc.. 1953 W. 11th St., Upland, CA 91786: $89; TRS-80 I. III. 4; available in cassette ver- sion for 16K machines. NEWSCRIPT 7.0; Prosoft Software; Box 839: North Hol- lywood, CA 91603; S125; 48K Model 1, III and 4. SCRIPSIT: Tandy Corp., 1800 One Tandy Center, Ft. Worth, TX 76102; $99: TRS-80 Model 1, III. 4: Color Scrip- sit for Color Computer: $39.95. SUPERSCRIPSIT; Tandy Corp: $199; TRS-80 Models I. III. and 4. ZORLOF: Anitek, Box 361136, Melbourne, FL 32936: $69. DECEMSER 1BB3 65 A Young Girl's Fantasy Turns to Fortune AS A CHILD, ROBERTA WILLIAMS WAS SCOLDED FOR CREATING STORIES. NOW HER IMAGINATION PAYS OFF IN COMPUTER ADVENTURES. BY JAMES DELSON #Mo "WHAT'S FUNNY ABOUT MY SUCCESS IS THAT I USEP TO GET INTO TROUBLE FOR TELLING STORIES. NOW I MAKE A LIVING AT IT." JAMES DELSON, the gaiues critic Jor FAMILY COMPUTING, has written for Psychology Today and Film Commenl. and is currently working on his eleventh screenplay. 66 FAMILY COMPUTING lany of us dream of designing a hit com- puter game— Just one in our UJetime. Thirty- year-old Roberta Williams has Jive games to her credit — all written in the past three years. Amazingly, bettveen the time she ivas 10 and 26. she didn't even play, much less Invent, any gam.es. "Myjirst games career began and ended by age 10 with the playing of Candy Land." the designer told family computing contributing editor James Delson when they met recently. But Williams has risen like a phoenix out of the ashes of her 16-year hiatus from game playing to become one of the country's leading game designers, creating such adventures as Time Zone, The Dark Crystal, and Mystery House. Born and raised in the suburbs of Los Angeles. Williams recalls that the high spots oj her childhood were those times she would spin tall tales Jor her friends and relatives about her experiences playing Candy Land, the board game that leads children along a trail of gumdrops. lollipops, and other sweets lo a gingerbread house. "If you really look at it. Candy Land is like an adventure ganie." says Williams. "You're going through this little Jantasyland. When I told my friends and cousins these wild stories about my adven- tures there, they'd tell their parents, who would then call my parents to get them to slop me from making up such lies." As Williams reached puberty, her interest in storytelling gave way to miniskirts and boy chasing. She soon married, had two children, and worked brlejly in various computer-relat- ed Jobs, tier imagination took a rest for more than a decade, to be aroused when, at age 26, she discovered computer games. In the next three years she designed five trend-set- ting computer adventure programs. Her credits read like a brief history of ad- venture games, beginning with herjirsl pro- gram. Mystery House, which broke ground as the first illustrated adventure scenario. Wiz- ard and the Princess, the first color graphics adventure game, led lo the simpler Mission Asteroid. Time Zone, which fills six double- sided disks and more than 1 .500 screens with 39 interlocking scenarios, is the biggest game ever manufactured, while The Dark Crystal was the first "advenlurization" of a motion picture into a game. Now she has two new projects: Family Circus, based on the popular comic strip, and a new adventure program so lop secret that she can't even disclose its title, although she will discuss some of its innova- tive elements. Williams and her husband. Ken. continue to revolutionize the Jield with programs from Sierra On-Line. the California- based software company they founded in 1980. "What's funny about my success now llsj I used to get into trouble for telling stories." Williams said. "Now I make a living at it." FCj Why are adventure games so appealing to VOIl"? you? Williams; Most computer games offer a way of escaping life, but adventures go further. They offer me the chance to tell stories. FCs How old are kids who play adventure games? Williams: Most kids from about nine and up enjoy them, but the puzzles require a thought process kids don't develop until they are about 11 or 12. Even my son, who's nine and has lived with adventure games since he was six, can't play alone. By about sixth grade, age level doesn't matter. It's the experience one's had in playing that counts, FC: Computer games tend to be regarded as male-oriented activities. How can more girls and women get acquainted with them? How can you get someone to play who's simply not interested? Williams: Well, I was that way until about four years ago. My husband used to bring home a computer terminal for his work. He would access the big IBM mainframe in down- town L.A.. and then, when he'd linished his work, he'd play games like Star Trek and Colos- sal Cave (now Adventure). He kept trjang to get me to play, but I didn't want anj'thing to do with it. A lot of women don't understand com- puters, act bored by them, and are basically intimidated by seeing iheir husbands slaving over them night and day, so they're just turned off to the whole idea. But finally, like me, many of them kind of wander over when their hus- bands arc playing and within five minutes they're hooked. FG: Discovering Aduenlure was a turning point in your life? Williams: It was amazing, because once 1 started playing it. I realized I'd been waiting my entire life for something like it. FC: Did you become a fanatic? Williams: 1 was up until three or four every night. I wasn't cleaning the house. 1 wasn't taking care of the kids. 1 would even go to bed thinking about how I could get past the drag- on! When 1 finally solved it, I tried to find other good adventure games, but they didn't add up to what 1 thought they should be, so I figured I'd try and write one of my own, FC: And that's how Mystery House came about? -Williams: Yeah, I just sat down and designed It. Then Ken programmed it and wc took out an ad in Micro magazine to see if it might attract any public interest. We thought we might be able to make a little extra money on the side. We were amazed! It sold like gangbust- ers and gave us the money to start our own company. FC: What motivated you to write Time Zone on so grand a scale? Williams: I was always disappointed when ad- venture games ended. I wanted them to go on forever, the same way you feel about a really good book or movie. So I tried to write an adventure game that would go on for a long time. FC: What is the playing time for a complete game of Time Zone? Williams: I figure that the average computer game player spends about 10 hours a week at the keyboard. At that rate it would take about six months to finish Time Zone. If I had to do it over again 1 might only make It half the length it is. But I'm glad I did it because not many people can claim to have done anything like it. It's sort of the adventure game's answer to Cecil B. DeMille's The Ten Commandments. Not that many people are going to try and play it, but when they do, it'll be something they'll remember for a while. FC: Are adventure games best played by groups or single people? Williams: It really depends on personal prefer- ence. Some people like to shut themselves up in a room and play. They don't want to be bothered. Others wouldn't think of playing without somebody else there. It's almost as If the shared experience were as important as the game. FC: Do you worry about some people lifting your game ideas for their own programs? In Time Zone, players travel through space and across seven conti- nents, in eras ranging from 400 million B.C. to 4082 A.D. "TO EVEN WANT TO PLAY ADVENTURE GAMES YOU'VE GOT TO ENJOY READING AND HAVE SOME SORT OF IMAGINATION." DECEMBER 1983 67 Inspired by Jim Hen- son's animated movie. The Dark Crystal ex- piores the battle be- tween the good Gel- Jlings and the evil Skeksis. "I DON'T KNOW HOW TO PROGRAM, WHICH HAS HURT ME." Williams; I can't be concerned about what other people do. It's a fact of life In this busi- ness that If you do something new or good there will be a number of clones following it onto the market. It happened with Mystery House and Wizard and the Princess, and prob- ably will happen with all our new games as they come out as well. I just believe that you do what you do, and nobody else can do what you do better. It comes down to technique, crafting the puzzles, and, basically, how interesting the whole game is. That can't be passed on to any- one else. That's In your mind, so I don't worry about It. FC: You've come so far in such a short period of time. Do you wonder about what lies ahead, or do you have your future mapped out? Williams: About two years ago things were kind of scary. We thought we'd created this animal we couldn't control. It was almost as if it was growing in spite of us. Now we've been around three and a half years and we're more sensible and practical about things. It's an In- dustry that has so much pressure on you to create and be good and stay one step ahead of everybody else that you don't often have time to reflect any more on what's happened or what's going on. All we think about are everyday pres- sures. FCt Can you describe your work habits in cre- ating an adventure? Williams: Let me start off by saying that 1 don't know how to program, which has hurt me, but which we have managed to work around by my being able to supervise each game from beginning to end. Anyway, the first thing 1 do is think up the game's concept. Then I draw the "map" of the game board. It's a veiy basic map. limited to defining the areas that the player will pass through on the adventure. I just map out where you can go, then decide what the places are that you're going to. Now, what's going to happen to you? Well, as in Time Zone, having a witch swoop down on you in the streets of London a hundred years from now is illogical, so that's out. But there'll still be cars, so you can get run over if you cross the street without going with the green light. I create "puzzles"— anyplace you get stuck— and they can be as easy (to solve) as opening doors or as complex as having to make a series of decisions in the proper order. FC: What does the map look like as you get into more advanced stages of planning? Williams: A mess. But I can tell by looking at it, without any words or any other material, what's going on. That way I can iix any faults or problems there are before I start writing. I wrrite page after page, room by room, exactly what Is supposed to happen. The programmers have to totaljy understand the game, so I can't leave anything out. It's like writing a book. Everything has to be defined: the pictures as they should appear on the screen, every possi- ble move the player can make, every message, everything the player might want to say in that room, descriptions of each room, everything. FC: What about room descriptions? Have you abandoped that style in the new game you're working on? Williams: Yes. That's a big difference. By eliminating the description we had to improve the picture, and that paid off for us. The pic- tures are better than anything we've ever done. It doesn't say where you are. It just assumes that you can see where you are and what's around you. FC: Do you ever go back and make changes once the "book" is finished? Williams: Only if It's absolutely necessary. Be- cause once you make one tiny little change in a game like that ... FC: You get a ripple effect, where everything it touches has to be changed as well? Williams: Yeah. I don't like to get into that. FC: How do you approach the problem of rules complexity in designing your games? Williams: I decide who the game's for and take it from there. All the games I've done be- fore have been for adults, so the rules were tailored for them. Children have been in the back of my mind, however, with the wish that 68 FAMILY COMPUTING they could grasp everything. The game I'm de- signing now is called Family Circus, based on the cartoon strip of that name. It's for children 10 to 17, so I have lo think of simplicity. it's really three separate games, each in- volving one of three kids in the strip: Dolly, Jessie, and Billy. The rules are the same for all three games, but theyYe on different difficulty levels, depending on the age and skills of the player. For example, with Dolly, the game teaches you how to go through the house, find your things, pick them up, and ligure out where they should be put away in the right place. FCj Is it a fantasy game? Williams: No, each of the games revolves around the house and the back or the front yard. So if you're Dolly you can; 1) jump on your parents' bed; 2) look under the bed; 3) leave the room; or 4) look out the window. Depending on the number chosen, different things will happen. FC: Is there a point system? Williams: No, the payoff is a happy face for the right place and sad faces for the wrong places. If you're Jessie, you have to learn right from wrong, and if you're Billy, it gives you chores to do, and you have to do them correctly with the right items. There's very simple puzzle solving in the game, but it's more or less given 10 them on a silver platter. FC: What can you say about your other new game? Williams: It's a totally animated program, so far beyond what's available on the market to- day that there's only one computer capable of handling it at this time, and I'm not permitted to say which one. Your character can duck, walk, climb. Jump, swim, run. leap, crawl, stoop, throw things, and shoot a bow. It has 3- D effects, so you can go behind objects or walk in front of things. You still type into it. talk to it, and it talks back. But now there are full sentences, instead of Just two words. FC: When you say fully animated, does that mean if you tell your character to walk, it keeps walking until you tell It to stop? Williams: Yes. And there are other characters in the game, both bad and good, whom you en- counter and have to deal with immediately. because the game's in real time. Everything happens as you see it. So if you happen upon an ogre, you can run away, hide bcind a rock, or do something else. But you've got to deal with It instantly, or you're killed. People are going to be killed a lot in this game when they're learning how to play It. FC: What other characters do you face? Williams: There are four or five bad guys. each with their own personalities, abilities, and character traits. The ogre's slow, so you can run away from him. The witch swoops down on her broom and tries to get you. so you have to duck and dodge or hide behind a tree to evade her. If you're chased by a wolf you have to climb a tree, because they can't. FC: Some of the adventure games I've played are so frustrating that I just want to get up and walk away forever. How do you approach the question of frustration when designing a game? Williams: That's one of the biggest things to know how to do, and I'm not sure where it comes from. With me, it's intuition. But I'm also committed to the idea of being completely logical. If you just sit and think things out in my games, the answers are always logical. How could you open a door if you didn't have a key? Use a credit card, or a hair pin if you bent it. Try to think of ways of doing things that aren't the normal way, but that still are possible. Things in my games are always there right in front of your nose. People may have a tendency not to look where its most obvious. They want to make it harder on themselves. FC: What is the relationship between the game designer and the player? Williams: They're adversaries. Wits versus wits. I try to thwart the player as much as possible, but without being too bad. Give 'em a little challenge, a little fun, then let 'em win.[R| Wizard and ihe Prin- cess. the_first graphic adventure in color, was ihe onlij computer game 10 remain on Sol'talks bestseller listjbr more than a year. "I TRY T© THWART THE PLAYER AS IMUCH AS POSSIBLE, BUT WITHOUT BEING TOO BAD." DECEMBER 1983 69 BUYER'S GUIDE TO JOYSTICKS, PADDLES, TRAK-BALLS WITH 24 "PLAY-TEST" REVIEWS "GIVE ME BUT LEVER AND PLACE TO STAND, AND I SHALL MOVE THE WORLD." —ARCHIMEDES (CIRCA 250 B.C.) As computers become ever more complex and powerful, it is a group of fairly simple devices that arc placing this power in human hands. Handheld controllers — paddles, joysticks, trak-balfs, and other more specialized instru- ments such as "mice" — are changing the way we interact with computers. The language of hand control is graphic, fluid, and versatile. Primarily designed for use with game and graph- ics programs, these simple devices allow you to move ob- jects, to point at objects, and to choose among alternatives (on a menu, say), far more efficiently than a keyboard does. In this month's Buyer's Guide, wc examine the current crop of hand controllers, learn how the major types work, what they can do, and how to choose the right controller for a particular computer and application. BASIC CONSIDERATIONS Almost ever>' popular brand of computer can use several classes of hand controller. However, a given controller is usually not compatible with more than one brand of com- puter (though Atari and Commodore computers can use the same types of joysticks and paddles). In certain cases, conlrollcr/computer incompatibility can be overcome by purchasing an adapter. Nonetheless, before you buy you should make sure that the controller you want works with your computer. Remember to check for software compatibility too. Most published software Is controller-specific — a program will be designed to handle input from one class of controller (paddle, joystick, trak-ball, etc.) and no other. A note on the software package will almost always stale what kind of controller a program requires. You should test a variety of controllers with the kind of software you intend to use before buying one. PADDLES Paddies, also called "pots," are the oldest and simplest of controllers. Their name derives from association with the granddaddy of video games. Pong, which used comparable knob-type controls. Now, paddles arc best used for "slide and shoot" action games, such as Space Invaders. Turning the paddle knob a certain number of degrees causes the screen object to move in a straight line — cither side-to-side or up-and-down. Alternatively, the number signals produced by a paddle can also serve as numeric input. For example, certain programs use paddles to indi- cate the frequency of musical notes or set the angle at which three-dimensional graphic images will be displayed. The game controller ports of most popular computers can each support a pair of paddles. Thus, paddles arc generally sold in pairs, two handheld units connected by a "Y" cable to a single plug. Right-handed paddle sets (with the fire button on the right) are easier to find than left- handed ones, though several manufacturers produce dou- ble-button "Icfty-righty" versions. When shopping for paddles, look for units that can be held comfortably in the palm with the thumb laid out straight over the fire button. Having to press the button repeatedly with the tip of a bent thumb can strain liga- ments and cause discomfort. The proper size for a paddle knob depends on the uses to which the paddle will be put. For action games, a larger knob may be better because it can be rolled with the palm more quickly from one end of its range to the other. For nonaction games, pointing games, and graphics applica- tions, a small knob, which can be turned in tiny incre- ments with the fingertips, may offer more control. Signs of a high-quality paddle include: a knob that turns smoothly, without friction; a firm, tactile button press; construction with screws instead of glue; and good sealing at the joints to protect against dust. JOYSTICKS Joysticks — here, there, everywhere. Their name derives from a British slang term used to describe the control rod of an airplane. And, internally, the modern joystick is a direct descendant of the miniature remote control units used by model airplane hobbyists since the early 1960s. And it has moved from the arcade into the home. There are two types of joystick on the market: analog and digital, otherwise known as pot-tj^pe and switch- type. Atari, Commodore, and TI computers use digital joysticks; Apple, IBM, and Radio Shack micros use the analog variety. Digital Joysticks. The control afforded by a digital joystick is limited to eight directional signals, plus the signal from the flre button. Digital joysticks cannot con- trol the absolute position of a screen object or its speed. Many different styles of digital joystick arc available, the majority designed for compatibility with Atari and Com- modore computers. Most can also be used with a TI-99/4A. but require a plug-adapter. Prices for these controllers range from under SlO to more than SlOO; and you can choose from a dizzying array of features enhancing re- sponsiveness, user comfort, and durability. Responsiveness in a digital joystick is largely a matter of switch speed — the ease, rapidity, and accuracy with which one or two of the four built-in switches can be closed by pressing the stick. This translates in practical terms to the amount of time it takes to set into motion an object on the screen in a given direction. Switch speed depends less on the type of switch used than on the design of the linkage between the switch and the base of the handle. Inexpensive joysticks usually have a simple linkage, the base of the shaft pressing more or less directly on the switches themselves. Sticks of this type 1. Wico Bat-Handle "Atari-slijle" Joystick; 2. Wico Boss Joystick: 3. TG Products Apple Trak-Ball: 4. Wico IBM Joystick; 5. TG Products "Atari-style" Enjoystick; 6. TG Products Apple/IBM Joystick. 70 FAMILY COMPUTING DECEMBER 1983 71 are generally less responsive than sophisticated models such as the Kraft Switch-Hitter, which employ more sensi- tive floating or lever linkages between shaft and switches. Complex linkages can also give a digital stick more "play" — allowing it to be pressed over further before en- countering resistance. Stiffer sticks tend to cause fatigue, forcing the hand holding the shaft to fight against the hand steadying the joystick "s base. In addition, a stick with some play Is less susceptible to shaft breakage than stiffer models. The life expectancy of digital sticks may also be enhanced by designing wear- prone parts, such as the shaft, in durable materials tike steel, rather than the customary nylon and plastic. This also gives sticks an appealing heft and balance. Additional features that may contribute to a stick's per- formance include multiple fire buttons, interchangeable grips, suction cups for tabletop mount, rapid-iire options, and calibration controls for adjusting shaft play and trig- ger sensitivity. Analog Joysticks. Analog joysticks have a much smaller shaft than digital joysticks, and it is connected by a ball-and-socket or other "floating" arrangement to a pair of potentiometers. The resulting double signal can control a screen object's position and speed. The ball-and-socket arrangement allows the stick-free motion through a full 360 degrees. Judging the responsiveness of an analog Joystick in- volves measuring how much of this wide vertical deflec- tion is actually significant to control. Some very respon- sive models, such as the Kraft Apple-compatible joysticks, produce their entire range of values within a few degrees of the center position. Moving the stick beyond this radius causes no further response on the screen. Sticks of this type are generally preferred for arcade-type games requir- ing rapid motion, though they suffer In fine control. Other less-responsive analog sticks spread their range of values more evenly over a wider deflection, slightly de- creasing the speed with which a screen object can be moved from one position to another, but proportionally increasing sensitivity and fine control. This type of stick is preferable for graphics applications. Unlike a digital joystick, which is "null" only in the upright centered position, an analog joystick ceases to affect a screen object when the stick itself is not in mo- tion. Thus self-centering, an assumed feature on digital sticks, may be considered a significant option on analog models. Most of the better Emalog sticks offer user-selecta- ble self-centering, allowing the centering feature to be engaged for games and the like, and disengaged for freer use with graphics and similar applications. Joysticks that offer this option often offer user-adjustable electronic cali- bration as well, by which the user can align the electronic response of the stick to correspond to its physical behavior in a variety of ways. Since the shaft of an analog joystick moves freely through a wider radius, it is not nearly as susceptible to fracture as that of a digital joystick, nor does it contribute significantly to fatigue. We find that the comfort of using an analog stick depends almost wholly on the design of the base and the position of the buttons, and that larger bases are somewhat more comfortable to hoid in extended use. Piro BuNons; Table Mounts. For gaming, we prefer sticks that have base-mounted buttons to those with but- tons on the handle. The separation of positioning and firing motions seems lo aid accuracy, though in some very fast-moving games a player might wish to have the option of engaging a shaft-mounted button to take advantage of the one-hand, grip-and-fire reflex. Opinions run the gamut on the issue of table-mounted vs. handheld joysticks. In certain piay tests, handheld sticks, particularly those with shorter grips, came out con- I. Triga Command "Atari-sCyle" Joystick: 2. Kraft Apple Paddles: 3. Amiga "Atari-style" Powerstick; 4. Kraft Apple Joystick: S. Atari 2600 Joystick: 6. Wico Command Control Trak-Ball: 7. Newport "Atari-style" Prostlck II (Texas Instruments adadpter); 8. Kraft Switch Hitter "Atari-style" Joystick: 9. Atari Paddles: 10. Datasoft "Atari-style" he Stick: I I . Discwasher "Atari-style" Pointmaster sistently better. Three-dimensional games, such as Zaxxon, seem particularly well suited to handheld joystick control. The reason for this, we feel, is that the unusual perspective of the game is easier to master when one's joystick is not locked Into a perpendicular position. Then again, table-mounted joysticks seemed to do better for 2-D scrolling games, such as Fort Apocalypse or Pac-Man. 72 FAMILY COMPUTING TRAK-BALLS In addition to the conventional joysticks and paddles, manufacturers have created a number of alternative con- troller designs for special markets and applications. Most alternative controllers are designed to electrically emulate conventional devices— that is, they look to the computer like a joystick or a paddle, while affording the user a special means of physical interaction or control. Many controller alternatives are arcade clones, copies of the input devices peculiar to certain top-rated video games. The trak-ball is an example of such a device. It was first made popular in the arcades by games such as Mis- sile Command and Centipede, but is now finding use as a more general Input tool. The simplest kind of trak-ball emulates an analog joy- stick, except it has a sphere-shaped actuator. Devices of this type, produced for Apple and IBM by Wico, offer ex- traordinary speed and accuracy of control. Other models, such as the Wico trak-ball for Atari and Commodore com- puters, allow less control over positioning, speed, and accuracy. And Radio Shack's Color Computer Movie functions as an upside-down trak-ball. which you roll across a flat surface. Trak-balls are compatible with joystick software, but are suited to a narrower range of applications. Because a trak- ball must be in motion in order to move a screen object, it is best suited for use in situations requiring precise mo- tion over fairly limited distances. t DECEMBER 1983 73 PLAY-TEST REVIEWS OF CONTROLLERS FOR APPLE, ATARI, COMMODORE, IBM, TRS-80, AND Tl MICROS The controllers outlined below were tested several times by several reviewers. In evaluating joysticks and trak-balls, four types of software were used in order to get a feel for the controller in different types of applications. 1) A con- tinuous-motion, fine-scrolling game. Example: River Run. This kind of game tests overall responsiveness, lateral positioning control, and trigger response; 2) a maze-type game. Example: Pac-Man. Tests utility of a controller in four-way format, i.e., vertical and horizontal motion only — no diagonal; 3) an eight-way arcade game. Example: Final Flight. Tests general accuracy of control in eight ATARI/COMMODORE/TI Pigilwl Jpys»kfcs PRODUCT: 3600 COMPATJV: Atari handedness: Right CONSTRUCTION: Average to flimsy HANDLE: Medlum-slze TRICCER(S): One, base- mounted lefL side for thumb press. Adequate firing speed, ACTION: Stiff COMFORT: Poor in extended play OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Good. Best in eight-way arcade and continuous fine-scrolling. PRICE: $9.95 COMMENT: The standard. Handle sized appropriately for both children and adults. You can't go wrong. PRODUCT: VIC Jeyslick COMPANY: Commodore HANDEDNESS: Left/Right CONSTRUCTION; Fllmsy HANDLE: Medium-Size TRIGOERIS): One, base-mounted, center, for thumb press. Average response. ACTION: Stiff COMFORT: Poor OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Average. Four- way maze best. PRICE: S8.95 COMMENT: Look elsewhere. PRODUCT: 8'Directienal Controller COMPANY: Texas Instruments handedness: NA* CONSTRUCTION: Fairly robust HANDLE: Medium-Size TRiGGEKiSi: One. shaft-mounted for thumb press ACTION: Average to stiff COMFORT: Fair OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Fair. Best on four-way maze games. Poor fine positioning. • NA means that thefire button is on the center shaft. thus making the controller suitable Jor right- or left-hand action. PRICE: S34.95 pair COMMENT: Joysticks come two to a set, with a single unified plug. Incompatible with Atari and Commodore. PRODUCT': Peintmosler COMPANY; Discwasher HANDEDNESS: NA* CONSTRUCTION: Fairly robust HANDLE: Large pistol grip TRiGGERfsi; One. shaft-mounted for thumb press. Allows rapid firing. ACTION: Fairly loose COMFORT: Fair. Judged difficult to hold by some OVERALL I'ERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Good. Eight-way arcade. PRICE: S 16.95. COMMENT: Poor fine positioning. Gives no real feeling of control. PRODUCT: Switch Hitter COMPANY: Kraft Systems HANDEDNESS: Left/Right CONSTRUCTION: Fairly robust HANDLE: Small TRiCGERis): Two (1/r) base- mounted for thumb press. Response good. ACTION: Quite loose COMFORT: Excellent OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Good. Poorest In graphics, best in eight-way arcade, PRICE: S19.95 COMMENT: Extremely responsive — takes some time gelling used to. Base sized very well. product: Le stick COMPANY: Datasoft HANDEDNESS: NA* CONSTRUCTION: Quite robust HANDLE: Medium-size (see comment) TRIGGER(S): One. shaft-mounted for thumb press ACTION: {see comment) COMFORT: Fair OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION; Average. Best in continuous fine-scrolling games. PRICE: S24.95 directions, accuracy with which a controller registers the diagonal signal; 4) a graphics application program. Exam- ple: Pinball Construction Set. Tests fine positioning con- trol. Trak-balls were also tested with games like Missile Command and Centipede, which were originally designed for trak-ball control. Paddles are supported by a fairly limited library of soft- ware, probably because joysticks have supplanted them In recent years as the controllers of choice. The paddles eval- uated here were tested with a variety of programs from FAMILY cOMPirriNG's library. COMMENT: Baseless joystick activated by gravity switches when stick is tilted. Requires loo much wrist action for positive directional control. Fine control is poor. Stick inappropriate for applications requiring reliable self-centering. Stick locks In current direction if squeezed — supposed to be a feature, but looks more like a bug. PRODUCT: Prestick 11 company; Newport HANDEDNESS; Left/Right CONSTRUCTION: Very robust HANDLE: Short, ball end TRiGGERisi: Two (1/r) base- mounted on front for Index- linger press. ACTION: Average to stiff COMFORT: Good. Base Is well shaped. OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ application: Good. Fine positioning excellent. Good for four-way maze, eight- way, graphics. PRICE: $24.95 COMMENT: A very nice stick. Can switch from four-way to eight-way action. T! Adapter available. PRODUCT; Command Joystick COMPANY: Triga HANDEDNESS: NA* CONSTRUCTION: Veiy robust handle: Very large, knurled rubber grips TRIGGERISI: One. Shaft- mounted for Index-finger press. Very fast response. ACTION: Average to loose COMFORT: Fair. Some complain that knurled grips hurt their hands. OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Good. Surprisingly accurate line- posltloning. Best for continuous fine-scrolilng and eight-way arcade. price: SI 5.95 COMMENT; An unusually large handle may make this stick Inappropriate for young children. PlstoI-type trigger makes It look like a weapon. PRODUCT: Bat Handle COMPANY; Wico HANDEDNESS: Right, NA* (sec trigger) CONSTRUCTION: RobUSt handle: Large, bal-shaped TRIGOERIS): Two. One base- mounted for thumb press (right hand), one shaft- mounted for thumb press. Switch selectable. ACTION: Quite loose COMFORT: Good OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ application: Good, Best for eight-way arcade. PRICE: S29.95 COMMENT: A real arcade-quality stick. Wlco has two other versions of the same basic design: one with a ball- handle shaft (Red Ball), the other with interchangeable grips (3-Way). Some find base of stick difficult to hold for extended periods. PRODUCT: En|oystick company: TG Products HANDEDNESS: Lcft/Rlght (SCC comment) CONSTRUCTION: Fairly flimsy HANDLE; Small TRICGERIS): One, base-mounted on side for thumb press. Trigger unit may be reversed for left-handed use. ACTION: Loose COMFORT: Good. Hexagonsil base is easy to hold, OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Good, Bcst on eight-way arcade. PRICE: 829,95 COMMENT: Reversible trigger is nice Idea, but could be better designed. Reversing the trigger briefly exposes wiring In the interior of the stick. If switch is made frequently, this may contribute to shortening the product's life. PRODUCT: Pewerstick COMPANY: Amiga HANDEDNESS: Lcft/Rlght 74 FAMILY COMPUTING CONSTRUCTION: Fairly robust FWNni.E: Ver>' small TRIGCER(S|: Two, base-mounted on sides for thumb press action: Very loose comfort: Too small for adults lo use comfortably. Perfect for kids. OVERALL KERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Fair. Best In continuous fine-scrolling. Graphics poor. PRICE: S9.99 comment: a good stick for children. Joystick does not self-center, which can be troublesome in fine- positioning applications. A pair of the same sticks, plus compatible lo TI. is available for S 19. 99. PRODUCT: Quick Shot COMPANY: Spectravideo HANDEDNESS: Right/NA* HANDLE: Large, pistol-grip CONSTRUCTION: Fairly robust TRiGCERisi: Two, onc base- mounted for thumb press, the other shaft mounted for thumb press ACTION: Quite stiff OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Fair. Best for eight-way games. PRICE: SI 8. 95 COMMENT: An average stick. Knurled base makes it fairly easy to hold. Unusually stable in table mount. Digilal Trwk Balls F'KOUUCT: Trak-Ball COMPANY: Wico HANDEDNESS: Right coNSTi*iJCTioN: Very robust TRicGERisi: One button, mounled flush with lop panel for thumb or Index finger press. COMFORT: Very good. Ball rolls smoothly and unit may be held in hand or placed on table. OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Good. Fine positioning quite good. Best for eight-way games and graphics. PRICE: $49.95 coMAtENT: Within ils range, an excellent controller. Wico also makes a version of this ball that is plug-compatible with TI. PRODUCT: Accuball Controller COMPANY: Acculronics HANDEDNESS: Right CONSTRUCTION: Average TRIGCERISI: One top-mounted button for thumb or index- finger press COMFORT: Fair. Ball does not roll very smoothly when unit is handheld. OVERALL PERFORMANCE' APPLICATION: Fair. Fine positioning erratic. Best for eight-way games. PRICE: $24.95 COMMENT: A fairly good trak- ball. Number two in a field of two. Paddles (The TI computer is not paddle-compalihle.) PRODUCT: Paddle Pair COMPANY: Atari ilANDEDNESS: Right coNSTRucTiON: Fairly robust TRiGGER(Sj; One per unit. Side- mounted for thumb press. COMFORT: Very good. Unit is rounded lo fit in palm. OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Good. Accuracy of positioning quite precise and does not waver. PRICE: S14.95 pair. COMMENT: A good paddle. Suitable for a range of applications. APPLE/iBM/TRS-80 COLOR Joysticks PRODUCT: Apple lie Joystick COMPANT: Apple Computer HANDEDNESS: Right CONSTRUCTION: RobuSt TRiGGERisi: Two, base-mounlcd for thumb press. Quite responsive. HANDLE: Small, steel shaft. plastic-lipped AcrriON: Quite smooth. Good, even pressure against centering springs. COMFORT: Very comfortable to use. Base is well-sized for hand. OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Good. Fine control, fair. Best for continuous-scrolling games. price: S59.95 COMMENT: Attractively styled to match Apple He console. Plug fits external Joystick port on He. User-adjustable centering and electronic calibration. PRODUCT: Apple/IBJWyCoCo Joystick COMPANY: Kraft Systems HANDEDNESS: Right CONSTRUCTION: Verj' robust HANDLE: Short, metal shaft. Knurled tip. TKiGGERiSi: Two. base- mounted. Onc on top for thumb press, other on front for index-finger press. Very responsive. Color coded. ACTION: Excellent. COMFORT: Extremely comfort- able to hold. Roughened sur- face keeps grip firm. Top panel of unit Cilted back for table mount. PRICE: 864.95 PRODUCT: Apple/IBM Joystick COMPANY: Wico HANDEDNESS: Right CONSTRUCTION: Robust HANDLE: Large, knurled plastic TKiCGEKisi: Two. Basc-mounted on lop for thumb press. Buttons siKe-coded, ACTION: In self-centering mode, somewhat stiff. In free mode, somewhat loose. COMFORT: Very comfortable. Finger notch in base for firm grip. OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Good. Large stick makes game play easier, particularly for fast-moving eighl-way games- PRICE: S49.95 COMMENT: Adjustable self- centering. An interesting stick. Arcade quality for Apple and IBM. PRODUCT: Radio Shack Joystick COMPANT: Tandy Corporation HANDEDNESS: Right CONSTRUCTION: Fairlv flimsy handle: Turned metal shaft TRiGGERis): One, base-mounted for thumb press. ACTION: Smooth COMFORT; Fair. Unit well-sized to hand. PERFORMANCE: Good. BCSt for eighl-way arcade games. PRICE: S39.95 COMMENT: Selectable self- centering and electronic calibration. Far bcller than the last generation of CoCo joysticks. PRODUCT: Apple/IBM Joystick COMPANT: TG Products HANDEDNESS: Right CONSTRUCTION: Average HANDLE: Small, metal shaft. Plastic tip. TRIGCERISI: Two. Both top- mounted for thumb press. ACTION: Fair, lacking somewhat in smoothness COMFORT: Fair. Square case somewhat difficult to hold. OVERALL PERFORM/WCE/ ApPLiCATioN: Average. Best for eighl-way games. Fine posilioning only fair. PRICE: S59.95 comment; Selectable self- cenlering. Adjustable centering. An adequate replacement joystick. Plug fits internal game I/O socket on II plus/lie. ACTION: Very smooth. Ball spins well in bearings. COMFORT: Good. Unit is light enough to be held In hand or placed on lap. OVERALL PERFORMANCrE/ APPLICATION: Good. Best for graphics. PRICE: S89.95 COMMENT: Best of Ihe Apple Irak-balls. Works with CoCo. handedness; Right CONSTRUCTION: RobuSt TRIGCERISI: Two. base-mounted for thumb press. Size-coded. OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION; Very good. Best for eight-way games. PRICE: S64.95 COMMENT: User-selectable self- centering, user-adjuslable centering. Vciy responsive Slick. Requires some getting used to. May be too responsive for effective graphics use. Plug fits inicrnai game I/O socket on II plus/lie. PRODutrr: TC Apple Trak- Ball COMPANY: TG Products HANDEDNESS: Right CONSTRUCTION: Robust TRIGGERISI: Two. Top-mountcd In recess for thumb press. ACTION: Fair. Ball moves somewhat roughly on bearings. COMFORT: Good. Recess mounting of buttons prevents hands from interfering with one another in use. OVERALL PERFORMANCE/ APPLICATION: Fair. Ball has insufficient freedom of movement. Best for graphics. PRICE: S59.95 COMMENT: A nice-looking ball. Recessed buttons are a good idea. Paddles Trak>Balls product: Command Control COMPANY: Wico PRUuucT: Apple Paddle Pair COMPANY: Apple HANDEDNESS: Right CONSTRUCTION: RobuSt TRIGGERISI: One per unit, side- mounted for thumb press ACTION: Good, knob movement very smooth COMFORT: Very Good. Unit shaped and sized to fit well in palm. PERFORMANCE: Good. Fine positioning is positive and does not vary. PRICE: S34.95 COMMENT; A good paddle. Shape of unit is well Ihoughl-oui. PRODUCT: Kraft Apple/IBM Paddle COMPACT; Kraft Systems Kr\NDEDNESS: Right CONSTRUCTION: Very robust TRicnEKiSi: One per unit, base- mounted for Ihumb press actios: Good. Smooth rotafion. COMFORT; Good. Rough surface grips easily. Top panel lilted back for lablctop mount. PEi^FORMANCK: Good. Fine positioning is excellent. PRICE: $49.95 comment: An elite paddle for the Apple [Ri DECEMiSEK !<JH3 75 Automatic Pilot YOU CAN FOLLOW THE LEAD OF THESE FOUR HOMEOWNERS WHOVE USED EASY-TO- INSTALL EQUIPMENT TO TURN SCIENCE FiaiON INTO FAQ. SOON ENOUGH, HOME CONTROL AAAY EVEN BE PRAQICAL BY LESTER BROOKS 76 KAMI I.V COMPUTING I he tantalizing aroma of sizzling bacon, hot toast, and freshly brewed coffee — all prepared automatically — tickles the nose of Allan Gins- berg even before the lights go on and his radio alarm nudges him fully awake each morning. Ginsberg's day gets off to a predictably tasty start for he has harnessed his house to his computer. Besides preparing breakfast, the computer executes an extraordinary range of chores for the young, single executive from Be- thesda. Maryland. Electronic pioneers like Ginsberg have tak- en a giant step toward 21st-century living by turning over to their computers repetitive, eas- ily forgotten, or simply tedious tasks. While computerized home control is still in its infan- cy, and still somewhat short of practical, some of today's applications hint at the time- and money-saving possibilities for the future. With today's readily available hardware and software, your computer can turn lights on and off, control heat and air-conditioning, start appliances doing such diverse chores as cooking dinner, washing clothes, warming a hot tub, and watering the lawn. Some comput- ers have been turned into electronic nannies, rocking cribs or dimming lights in children's rooms. Computers are also being used for sen- try duty, where sensors detect intruders, and for theft prevention, as specially programmed lights and radios turn on and off to mislead burglars into believing the family is at home instead of away on vacation. Computers are even capable of phoning the police to report burglaries in process. Until about four years ago, home control was the domain of electrical engineers and elec- tronics nuts. They assembled their systems from components purchased at electronic spe- cialty shops, or through advertisers in electron- ics magazines. Today, you can purchase plug- in components at Radio Shack, Sears, and local hardware and department stores, and hook them to almost any computer. It's not that expensive, unless you want a control sys- tem with lots of gimmicks (and a Tiffany price tag), and it's not that difficult, "If I can do it. anybody can," says Ginsberg. "I can barely pro- gram my computer. And I bought all the com- ponents at local shops." ELEGANT SIMPLICITY The least complicated of these control sys- tems is elegantly simple: You develop the schedule for turning lights and appliances on and off, and record that data on cassette or disk. (Home control programs can be bought as commercial software, or written yourself. See sample on next page.) The commands from that program go from your computer, through an interface, and to a controller unit. The con- troller unit gives signals through your house wiring to "modules" that plug into your stan- dard electric receptacles. You plug your lamps and appliances into these modules (see dia- gram). The signal from the controller unit to a specific module turns the electric current on or off, and dims or brightens the lamps. For ceil- ing lights, which aren't plugged into a wall receptacle, there's a special module to replace your existing wall switch. And there are mod- ules made specifically for heavy-duty appli- ances. Why do people control their homes by com- puter? If you're Allan Ginsberg, you do it be- TO SIMULATE fMOONLIGHT IN THE SALTWATER AQUARIUM, ULTRAVIOLET BULBS WAX AND WANE. LESTER BROOKS IS a ueteranjreelance writer who Hues in New Canaan. Connecticut. He is a former officer of the Chase Manhattan Bank and the U.S. Foreign Serotce, He has written nine books, including Great American Autos, and writes frequently on cotnputer and business topics. 78 FAMILY COMPUTING cause you love to see how many functions you can put on automatic. He's programmed his computer to turn on the electrical gadgets that cook the bacon (a "Baconeer") and boil his 3- minute egg (an "Egger"'). toast his bread, and brew his coffee. But breakfast is only a starter on Ginsberg's menu of home control. FROM SUNRISE TO MOONSET The lights, heat, air conditioner, and sprinkler are on the system. And his Jacuzzi is brought to 102° every night al the same time. He has installed light sensors and motor-con- trolled drapes so that the computer can deter- mine when to open and close the curtains. For his 300-gallon. indoor saltwater aquarium, Ginsberg has programmed light changes that simulate the transitions from dawn to dusk and moonrise throughout the 24-hour cycle. To simulate moonlight, ultraviolet bulbs wax and wane. Door and window sensors signal the computer when touched; if that happens, the police arc called, automatically, 2K IS ENOUGH Ginsberg has three computers: an Apple He. an IBM PC. and a Centurian. It is this latter one, with only 2K of memory, that runs most of Ginsberg's system. He says it has more than enough memory to keep the system going and is a breeze to set in motion, 'It just asks me when 1 want something to go on, and I say. 'Saturday at 11 a,m,, etc' There's no program- ming involved," The cornerstone of Ginsbergs system is a BSR Controller. This Is connected to the Cen- turian computer, designed specifically for home-management systems, and to modules plugged into receptacles. On signal from the computer, the controller triggers the modules either on or off, and the appliances follow suit. Ginsberg also has the BSR Telephone Re- sponder unit that makes it possible for him to call home and instruct the controller to turn specific appliance or light modules on or off. This way he can start the roast in the oven or turn on the air-conditioning ahead of schedule. if he's arriving home early. ELECTRONIC NANNY A somewhat less conventional home-con- trol application was that tried by Karen and Edward Adler of Sands Point, New York. Their Apple computer was two years old when their first child was bom in 1980. Although lawyer Adler had been fascinated with electronic gad- gets as a teenager, and had dreamed of an automated house, he hadn't done amthing about it. When the Adlers brought baby Heather home from the hospital, however, they quickly turned to the computer for help. Heather, it turned out, was a restless, colicky baby, whose cries roused her parents half a dozen times a night. To keep her happy and minimize the sleepless nights. Ed rigged the baby's crib on springs so that it rocked when she awoke and tossed about. Then he hooked a burglar alarm. which switched on when activated by noise or motion, into the computer's game port. The burglar alarm started a tow-speed motor whose shaft resolved and gently tugged a cord that rocked the crib. According to a simple seven- line loop program that Adler wrote in BASIC, the computer turned off the motor after a few minutes, by which time the baby was asleep again. This went on for two years, until Heather outgrew the colicky syndrome. Meanwhile, the tb'tlO€ketr Program Tlie Crib-Rocker program that Edward Adler wrote to rock his restless daughter's crib is dis- armingly simple. Here's how it works; lU RtCI QRHj. CRIB-ftOCItR RKUQRt^M Lis KbM hy ED (lULtR iflUG. 19VB» ~.a CRYINb = -l6;tS7!MLIVtif-ENT ■" - 11-286: ROUIER = ItjasfiOt-KUN = - 1629^1 fiOL I tJFf = -162V6 40 IF fEEK<i;RYtNQ) > 12/ OR I ■EEM iMQVfchiiM f J ■ 11-7 THEM eOSDti ftOClLR 5a bOTU 40 laU ROPiE ROCKDN.BiREM BTART RDCKEfi iiu FDR T = I ro saiaauiMEXT t ]_a ir PEEK (CRY INB) ■ 12/ THEN BDTO I I« 1 ;0 f-c*:e Ruci-aFF, i:for r = i to ibbbbsmexi r I-IB RETURN 1. Line 30 assigns names to numbers used la- ter in the program. Adler did this to make the programs logic clearer, but it is not necessarj'. For e.xample. when sound and motion sensors are plugged into the game control ports, the comput- er can determine their status by looking at the values In memory locations -16287 and -16286 (called CRYING and movement). The memory loca- tions are indicated in the Applesoft 1! BASIC Pro- gramming Reference Manual. 2. Line 40 reads. In effect: If the sound or mo- tion sensors arc activated, then go to the kockek 'subroutine beginning in line 100. When a sensor is activated, the value of the corresponding mem- ory location becomes greater than 127. a figure also taken from the manual. 3. If the sensors are not activated, the comput- er proceeds to line 50, where it Is told to goto line 30. Once again, it checks Ihc sensors. This loop continues until sound or motion is delected. 4. Line 100 starts the crib rocking, by turning on one of the four game control outputs (also called "annunciators"). This triggers a relay, which starts a motor, whose shaft is connected to the crib. Again, the value to poke (o) is indicated in the manual. 5. In Line 110, the for t= i to 3Cmoo time delay keeps the motor on for about a minute. 6. Line 120 reads, in effect: If the cr\Mng con- tinues, GOTO line 1 10 and keep the motor running for another minute. T. Line 130 reads: If crying has ceased (mean- ing the computer fails the IF test) the annunciator is turned off (poke. 1 1. This stops the motor. Then there is a slight pause (the for t= i to loooo time delay) to let the crib stop rocking. 8. Then, obeying the return statement in line 140, the computer goes back to the next state- ment following the GO.st)n call, or line 50. There, it is told to GOTO line 30, and begin the sensor- checking loop again. [Note: The program was written in integer BASIC, which varies slightlyfrom most other BASICs. I HOME CONTROL PRODUCTS COMPLETE CONTROL SYSTEMS Generally include controHer, clock timer. and modules; often Include voice recogni- tion and voice sjTithesis. Can control lights, appliances, healing/cooling systems, securi- ty systems, and other electrically controlled devices. These systems generally connect to computers via the standard RS232 serial in- terface. Homebrain Salem Industrial Park P.O. Box 137. Route 222 E. White House, NJ 08888 (201) 534-9700 81,499 Waldo Artra.Inc. P.O. Box 653 Arlington. VA 22216 (7031 527-0455 S599 (Apple lis. plus S199 for voice synthe- sizer kit); S399 (Heath/Zenith assembly kit. plus SI 99 for voice sjTithcsizer kit) TomorrewHouse System Compu-Home Systems, inc. 3333 E. Florida Ave. Denver. CO 80210 (303) 777-6600 S895 and up (Apple and compatibles) COMMAND UNIT/CONTROLLERS These units perform many of the same func- tions as the complete systems, but cannot control as many electrical outlets. Command units don't usually have built-in voice syn- thesis, built-in clock timers, or modules. They most often connect with the BSR X-10 system and modules. Check before buying to make sure that the unit will connect to your computer; most require a standard serial interface (RS232) or the IEEE serial inter- face. CmC BUSSler C64 Connecticut Microcomputer. Inc. 36 Del Mar Dr. Brookflcld. CT 06804 (203) 775-4595 S495 (Commodore 64: RS232 serial inter- face; IEEE 488 serial interface) CSI System 1200 Microprocessor Associates, Inc. P.O. Box 3438 Nashua. NH 03061 (603) 888-9900 SI 70 (RS232 serial interface) SciTrenics RC-100A 523 S. Clewell St. Bethlehem. PA 18015 (215) 868-7220 S259 (S-100 bus; IEEE 696 serial interface) Device Master Tecmar 6225 Cochran Rd. Solon. OH 44139 (216)349-0600 S245 (IBM PC) CLOCK TIMERS These units function as calendar, clock, and timer, so that you can set a control schedule for several weeks at a time. The schedule can var>' from day to day. SciTrenics RTC-100 (Address above) S199 (S-100 bus; IEEE 696 serial interface) The Clock #01 •229 Mountain Computer. Inc. 300 El Pueblo Rd. Scotts Valley, CA 95066 (408) 438-6650 S280 (Apple II plus, lie) MODULES These plug into electric receptacles and re- ceive signals from the computer via the con- troller. Items such as lamps and appliances that are plugged into the modules are turned on or off according to the signals. BSR X.I 0 System BSR (USA) Ltd. Route 303 Blauvelt, NY 10913 (914)358-6060 Command unit (S49) Lamp Module (822) Appliance Module (8161 Wall Switch Module (816) Thermostat Controller (S60-S80) Also sold under Sears and Plug 'n Power brand names. PROGRAMS These can be in cassette or disk format, or built into the controller. The programs, gen- erally sold in conjunction with the control- ler, contain the control schedule and send signals to modules at the proper time. SENSORS These devices detect heat or light changes. and noise and motion. If the controller is programmed to turn off the boiler when it reaches a certain temperature, the signal to do so originates with the sensor. Or. if an alarm is to sound when a door is touched, the signal will come from the sensor. Sen- sors can, be found at electronics stores and Radio Shack stores. HOME CONTROL PRODUCTS CAN BE BOUGHT AT SEARS, RADIO SHACK, AND HARDWARE STORES. DECEMBER 19S3 79 Adiers carefully tracked Heather's diet and cor- related it with the computer log of her restless- ness. They hoped to determine which foods might be affecting her. They experimented with changing nap and meal times and food until they found the combinations that result- ed in the most peaceful nights. "The computer saved us a lot of sleepless nights," says Ed. The whole system, besides the computer, cost him about S20 for parts. ENERGY ASSESSMENT Now that the rock-a-bye crib is no longer needed, Ed is monitoring energy use of his heating and air-conditioning systems. Electric thermostats, hooked into one of the Apple's game ports, run outside the house, to the attic and basement. A sensor hooked to the oil burn- er or air conditioner runs to the other game port. The computer keeps an up-to-the minute log of all temperature changes and correspond- ing oil burner use, allowing for direct compari- son. Ed can get a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly printout of this data in figures or in the form of a bar chart. And he also discovered that when he turned his electric water heater off at night, in the hope of conserving energy, it took as much electricity to restore it to usable temperature as it did to keep the heat on all night. A TIGHT PROGRAM Adler's current home-control program. which he wrote mostly in BASIC but with some routines in machine language, is a far cry from the seven-line loop program that put Heather to sleep, it is so long, and stores so much daily information, that all of the computer's 48K RAM memor>' is used up. If he wants to use the computer for other tasks, he must momentari- ly dismantle the home-control system. But it need not always work that way. Da- vid Staehlin, a highway construction engineer in Albuquerque, New Mexico, programmed his 48K Heath H8 computer to control lights, heat- ing and cooling systems, and lawn sprinklers. "The entire control system took up only 8K. I had it running in background mode 24 hours a day, and still had capacity for other tasks." Still another way of computerizing a home Is the package approach. Instead of assembling his system component by component. Robert 80 FAMILY COMPUTING Willson of Cincinnati has Installed a complete "TomorrowHouse" system in his home. The To- morrowHousc, which costs S895 and up de- pending on what capabilities you want, and works with Apple computers, was designed as an energy conservation system. It turns lights on and off and monitors temperatures minute- by-minutc. alternately turning the heat up or down. It also calls the police when an intruder triggers the security system. And it can do more yet. "GOOD MORNING, JONATHAN" Jonathan, as Willson calls his Tomorrow- House system, wakes him each day with a me- chanical-sounding "Good morning. Master." Then Jonathan reports the time, temperatures indoors and outdoors, and Willson's appoint- ments for the day. Jonathan's sjmthetic-voice capability is probably the most unusual part of his repertoire, but fortunately you can shut him up if you want with a simple command to the computer. The TomorrowHouse system is easy to in- stall, according to Willson. "You can do it if you can snip wires and use a screwdriver. And you really don't do any programming. You just an- swer a series of questions TomorrowHouse asks you. You basically give the computer a profile of what you want the house to be like. You can schedule up to nine weeks at a time — every day different or every day the same," says Willson. LIFE IMITATES ART Jonathan's announcements are backed up by memos on the computer monitor. They give date and time, and a floor plan of the house showing which lights or appliances arc on and whether the garage door is open or closed. And even the temperature of the hot tub. Well, you get the Idea. It seems that people who like home control by computer like hot tubs. So maybe it's a bit of a gimmick or fad that's not for everyone. But, remember the 1970s movie. The Demon Seed, about a com- puter that controls a scientist's house? That was science fiction, and the science fiction has become a reality. Which means that practical benefits, a little difficult to pinpoint now, may soon follow. Right, Jonathan? "Yes. Master." [K A home control system works like this.- 1. A program tells the computer when lights or appliances are to be tamed on or ojf. 2. The cornputer is connected, through an interjace. to a controller unit. 3. The controller is plugged into an outlet, and its insfrucliorts are carried through the house wiring to all other outlets. 4. A module, plugged into one of these outlets, receives its instructions. 5. A coffee pot. or any other electrical device plugged into the module, is turned on or off. How to Make Your Own Computer Cover for Just a Few Dollars WITH A SAAALL INVESTMENT OF TIME AND MONEY YOU CAN PROTEQ A VALUABLE ASSET— YOUR COMPUTER. BY ELAINI BALKMAN LATIMER, WITH JOEY LATIMER ^^ne afternoon, as the sun angled its light through our windows and across our computer table, the com- puters faded from my vision and I saw only dust. Tons of dust! And al- though I'm a far cry from the stereo- typed mad-rag housewife, I became alarmed. The realization that there was that much dust and dirt around, even after a thorough clean- ing, made me think seriously about getting covers for our computers. After checking into the price of mail-order covers, though, 1 was in- spired to create my own. I had to laugh at first because I can hardly sew. Since that first chuckle, how- ever. I've turned pieces of fabric into smooth folds. You can too! Here's how: SUPPLIES One yard of fabric per computer Sewing machine Seam puller Yardstick Straight pins Iron Pencil OPTIONAL ITEMS: Waterproofing Iron-on letters Matching thread Scissors Pinking shears Tape measure Chalk Ironing board Paper Seam binding ELAINE LATIMER iS becoming afrequent contributor to family COMPUTING. Her last articie, "How to Be the First Computer on Your Block," appeared in the October issue. .1. STEP GATHERING MATERIALS i "'■30^^^ "*si #^- After figuring out what I'd need and making a list, I rummaged around the house and came up with everything except the fabric. On the bargain tables at my local fabric store I found several poly-cotton fab- ' rics like those used in pictures of computer covers shown in maga- zines. After a few minutes of look- ing, feeling, and smelling, however, I decided on two yards of finely ribbed corduroy. (The two yards were enough to cover the Commodore 64, our new Atari 800, and my mis- takes.) The total, including match- ing thread, came to $4.71! This would barely cover the cost of ship- ping mail-order covers. 2. STEP. PREPARING THE FABRIC "Before you do anything," my high school sewing teacher would insist. "always wash, dry. and iron cotton fabrics. This keeps your final prod- uct from shrinkingwhen you wash it." She was right. Washing and ironing the fabric makes it much easier to work with. When your fabric is ready, spread it out on a flat surface with the wrong side of the material facing up. Now you're all set for measuring and drawing the pattern onto the fabric. 3. STEP^^V MEASURING AND PATTERN-MAKING Measure the computer from bot- tom front to bottom back and from bottom left side to bottom right side. Add two inches to each measure- ment for a hem allowance, then jot the numbers down on a piece of pa- per. These are your outer measure- ments. Using a yardstick, measure and draw — with chalk — a rectangle on the fabric using the outer mea- surements as the sides (see diagram on next page). DECEMBER 1983 81 1 ^ 111/-" I + ^ 1 D 1 A n . TV," iai'"l K B ■* 1 ' c 3" ± h— 3y."-»+- 16" .^-^3V."-»^; : : ; i \. LEFT SIDE; B. RIGHT SIDE; C. FROlNi; •». dhi_n; b. iwr ^■»I/-" S lai/-" - ni ITFC AAFAl^l IPFAAFMT<; 6" & T'A" ^ INNER MEASUREAAENTS Now, measure the lop dimensions of your computer from front to back and from left to right. These are your inner measurements. Measure the back of the computer, from the bottom to top. Add a one- inch hem allowance (pictured as a broken line in the diagram), and you have the vertical measurements for the back of the computer ("D" in di- agram). Measure the front of the comput- er, add a one-inch hem allowance, and you have the vertical measure- ment for area "C." the front of the computer. To determine the horizontal (left and right) measurements for areas "A" and "B" you must measure the side of the computer, from bottom to top. at it's highest point, and add a one-inch seam allowance. Draw your inner lines onto the fabric. Be sure to extend ihcnT through the outer lines. Doing this will form the corner sewing lines (see diagram). 4. STiP' CUTTING AND FITTING Cut the pattern out along the out- side lines. Next, lay the cut piece over your computer and determine where the top corners of the computer are. They should be right under the point at which your inner lines meet. Notice the two lines that run downward at each corner? Pin those lines together. Make sure the pins are right on the line. When all cor- ners are pinned, you're ready to sew. 82 FAMILY COMPUTING 5. STEP ^^ W SEWING Sew the corners along the lines you've pinned, removing the pins as you go. Clip away the extra fabric, leaving hair an inch from the scam. Press the seam open and stitch along the edge of the opened fabric to prevent fraying. I found it easy to see whether or not my hem was even and to check the length by setting the computer on top of a stack of books. When the hem looks right, sew it. My hem measured about a quarter of an inch. If you line the fabric up with the outside of your sewing ma- chine foot and keep your eyes on the seam as you're sewing, your hem line will be straight. Once the sew- ing is completed, cut off the excess. Now, turn the cover right side out and place it over your computer. Measure and pin up the hem. Seam binding is optional. 6. STEP' OPENINGS FOR CORDS Measure the circumference of the cord. Mark this on the material as the opening needed for the computer's cord(s). Draw a second outline a quarter lo a half inch Inside the iirsl lo create a fold-under seam. Cut out this sec- ond hole, and cut quarter-inch diag- onal slits at the corners. Then fold the seams under and pin. Sew close to the edge, clip away the excess fabric, and. using a hot iron, press the entire cover. Be sure to re- move all threads hanging down from the underside. OPTIONS Waterproof your cover with one of the available spray products on the market. Sew or iron on initials, names, or numbers. If you're very creative, you could do your own nee- dlepoint or embroidery, [g; DECEMBER 1983 83 Things Computer Salespeople Seldom Tell You WHEN SHOPPING FOR A COMPUTER, WHAT YOU DONT KNOW CAN HURT YOU. BY ROGER SCHULMAN ROGER SCHULMAN IS the coauthor of Seven Simple Steps to Buying, a Personal Computer, and Seven Simple Steps to Buying a Personal Computer for Your Child, to be published by Warner Books in the spring oj 1 984. He currentiy ivrltesjor Newsweek magazine. 84 FAMILY coMPirrmG I he salesperson in the computer store smiled and held up a briefcase-size machine with a keyboard on it. "This is the computer for you," he said. That sounded like good news to me. I opened my mouth to speak but he wasn't fin- ished yet. "It does everything, it has built-in word processing, built-in BASIC, and a built-in appointments program. And. It's got a built-in disk drive." He laid the computer gingerly on his desk and folded his hands together. "Should 1 write up an order?" I blinked. "How much is it?" "With 48K RAM option, about SI, 500." "No, don't write up an order. 1 think I'd like to take some time, try it out — think it over." The salesperson pressed his lips together. "But why?" he asked. "It does everything you want." I laughed. "How do you know? You never asked me what I want." WHAT'S LEFT UNSAID IS OFTEN MOST IMPORTANT When I walked into the computer store that day, I was interested in learning about the new portable I'd heard about. As ! left. I realized I hadn't found out much about the new ma- chine, but I did get a lesson on computer sales- people. The salesperson 1 had just gladly walked away from certainly wasn't doing me any good, and 1 couldn't see how he was doing his store any good either. What he was saying bothered me — but what bothered me even more was what he wasn't telling me. A computer salesperson is often your primary source for information about computers. And when it comes to shop- ping for computers, what you don't know can hurt you. Salespeople — computer, automobile, or otherwise — have one thing uppermost In their minds as they approach you, flash a smile, and extend a hand: Can I sell this person some- thing? There's nothing wrong with that atti- WHEN SALESPEOPLE SAY: 'Tou can use this computer with a TV or mewitor/^ YOU SHOULD ASK: "What monitors are com- patible with the computer, what kind of cables do I need to connect them, and how much do they cost?" WHEN SALESPEOPLE SAY: "This dot-matrix printer is designed to wori( vfUh your rr computer YOU SHOULD ASK: "Do 1 need a special inter- face or special cables to connect it to my comput- er? How much do they cost? And can it print out the special graphics char- acters my computer pro- duces?" lude — after all. you're there to buy something. But. unlike other salespeople, computer sales- people work in one of the most rapidly chang- ing fields, and that gives them an added re- sponsibility: They must be educators as well as sellers. As a computer shopper, its important to keep your ears tuned to catch what salespeople leave out as they tell you about a particular computer, program, or accessory. First, let's take a look at what computer salespeople can't tell you without your help. Then, we'll see what salespeople seldom tell you unless you ask them directly. YOU TAKE THE LEAD Good salespeople want to sell something you need rather than what they're pushing. Their first Job should be to find out about those needs so they can translate them into the right computer system for you. To do that, they need your help. Take some time to think about what you want and need from a computer system. You needn't become an expert on computers, but you shouldn't walk up to a salesperson knowing nothing. Read a few magazines. Thumb through a book or two. Consider the different jobs a com- puter can do: play games, word process, en- hance education, help with the budget, etc. Once you have an idea of what you want a computer system to do for you, you can stride up to a computer salesperson with confidence and say, "I'm interested in buying a computer system to do A, B, and C. Can you help me learn a little more about what 1 should buy?" Unless you have that question ready to roll off your tongue, a lot of salespeople won't give you a chance to ask it. Here are a few more important questions to ask. Often salespeople will steer you away from these questions, or pass them off with an unsatisfactory answer. Keep probing until you get the information you need to make a deci- sion, QUESTIONS TO ASK What do I need for a working system, and how much will it cost me? You need more than just the keyboard unit, or Central Processing Unit, to make a complete system. Salespeople often fail to tell you that you need cables to hook up a monitor or printer; that you need a special interface to connect the printer; that you need software to do almost ciny of the wonderful things they talk about; and that you need a tape recorder or disk drive to store any information. All of this, of course. costs money — a lot more money than the sales- person originally said you'd have to part with. Is everything I want fully compati- ble? You should double-check with your sales- person to make sure that every piece of hard- ware you want to buy — the computer, the tape recorder or disk drive, the printer, the mo- dem— can connect and work together. If they WHEN SALESPEOPLE SAY: ''Iff yoii want more memory, you can expand the RAM to 64K/' YOU SHOULD ASK: "What do I have to buy to do this? Can I do it my- self, or do I have to send the computer back to the company?" WHEN SALESPEOPLE SAY: 'This is a great computer for word processing/' YOU SHOULD ASK: "Is the keyboard comfort- able for extended use, and how many characters per line does the screen display?" WHEN SALESPEOPLE SAY: "Just taice this modem home and hooic it up to your phone, and you've got the world at your fingertips.' rr YOU SHOULD ASK: "Is the modem designed to work with my comput- er? And don't I need soft- ware to make the modem work?" DECEMBER 1983 85 IN eiNmAL, THE MORE KEYS A COMPUTER HAS, THE QUICKER AND EASIER IT WILL BE TO USE. IF YOU'RE BUYING A COMPUTER, HERE'S WHAT YOU SHOULD LOOK AT Figuring out what kind of computer best suits your needs means wading through a torrent of terminology and numbers. You hear it from salespeople, you read it in ads. But not all the manufacturer's specifica- tions need concern you. For example, if you're interested in games, then a comput- er's sound and graphics capabilities are more important than its text display. If you want to use the computer for word process- ing, then the type of keyboard and text dis- play are of primary importance. Following are brief descriptions of the categories manufacturers and dealers refer to in their sales presentations. Memory. The amount of RAM memory a computer has will affect the kind of ^oft- ware it can run. Word-processing, electron- ic-spreadsheet, and other business-applica- tions software generally require a minimum of 48K RAM to be used effectively. To run game or educational software, or write pro- grams, you need considerably less memory. Typically, some of a microcomputer's memory will be preempted by certain built- in programs, such as a BASIC interpreter and an operating system. Thus, even if a computer is advertised as having 64K of memory, not all of this memory will be avail- able to the user. The computer's built-in (ROM) memory is not accessible to the user. Generally, a computer with a larger ROM will have more built-in features, or a more extensive BASIC, with less user-available memory. Keyboard. The kind of keyboard a computer has will dictate its efficiency for certain tasks. The more keys a computer has. the easier and quicker it will be to use. A typewriter-style keyboard is important for word processing and writing large pro- grams, but less necessary if a computer is to be used primarily for entertainment. For business or home-management applica- tions, a separate numeric keypad, which acts like a calculator, is a big plus. Special function keys, which are used to carry out frequently used instructions, and indepen- dent cursor keys will make any keyboard quicker and easier to use. Video oulpiil. Most home computers do not come with a video screen and must be connected to a TV set or monitor ac- quired separately. A TV provides sufficient image resolution for most casual home use: for more intensive use, particularly where 80 columns of text will be displayed, a moni- tor is preferable because it provides a sharp- er, clearer image. Monitors often require special cables for hookup. See "Buyer's Guide to Monitors," in the October issue. Text display. Many computers offer a 40-column text display, about the maximum number of characters a TV can resolve legi- bly. Some computers may feature, or offer as an expansion option, the ability to display 80 columns of text. This is standard for word-processing or spreadsheet use. The availability of both upper- and lower-case let- ters Is also important for word processing. Computers featuring special graphics char- acters or multicolored text modes are desir- able for educational or entertainment use, Graphics. High-resolution color graph- ics arc standard on some microcomputers. Important factors for comparison are the number of colors available and the range of graphics resolution. This is measured in terms of "pixels" (picture elements), vertical- ly and horizontally. The more pixels, the sharper the screen image. "Sprite" graphics, or "player missile" graphics, featured on some computers, al- low the user to define a variety of graphics objects and manipulate them on the screen. Sound. Microcomputers generally offer from one to four voices, or channels, of mu- sical sound, and cover varying octave ranges. The quality of sound is most impor- tant for game playing, or for those who wish to experiment with musical composition. Beyond this, some computers offer speech synthesizers, which can pronounce words. Languages. The BASIC language is built in (or available in plug-in cartridge form) In most microcomputers. Dialects of BASIC differ, particularly in the area of graphics commands. If your ititerests lie in programming, search for a computer that supports Extended BASIC. To be programmed in other languages, most computers require an additional cir- cuit board or specialized software. If young children are to use the computer, languages to look for are PILOT and LOGO, which are becoming increasingly important in educa- tion. PASCAL, FORTH, FORTRAN, LISP, COBOL, and other optional languages may be important for the user who wishes to experiment with programming. 86 FAMILY COMPLrriNG don't connect easily, you may have to have spe- cial cables or interfaces made at electronics shops. Try to avoid this nuisance like the plague. It's worth taking the time to actually connect everything in the store, if possible, and see if it runs well. If you're buying at a large department or discount store, this won't always be possible. This is one of the sacrifices you make when buying discount. Is there any good software for the cemiiuler I want? Don't let salespeople talk about software in a general way. This often means they don't have much to say. Ask them to demonstrate a few programs of the type you're looking for. If they can't produce the software, don't accept promises that "It's com- ing soon." Some people who made this mistake have ended up with a computer that served as an expensive piece of sculpture for months be- fore the software finEilly arrived. Can this system expand with my needs? Even when buying your first comput- er, you should look to the future. If you fall in love with computing, you'll eventually want to expand your system with peripheral devices — maybe even a speech or music synthesizer. Or you may want to expand the computer's RAM memory, the number of characters you can dis- play on the screen, or the number of colors your computer can produce. The right time to find out how far a computer can expand — and how much that expansion will cost — is before you buy. What about service and support? Sup- port refers to what a store or manufacturer will do to help you learn how to use your system correctly: service refers to what they will do if something you buy is defective or breaks down. Make no mistake: Many stores include the cost of service and support in the price tag. so you might as well get what you're paying for. Hardware and software are serviced sepa- rately, so ask these questions about both. What's the manufacturer's warranty? Does the store offer its own warranty? Is there in-store repair service? Does the manufacturer offer a toll-free number you can call if you need help? Can you return defective products? Does the software include a backup copy? If not, will you be able to make a backup copy at home or get a backup from the manufacturer? WHAT ALWAYS GOES UNSAID: "YOU'RE THE BOSS!" You shouldn't expect salespeople to answer all of your questions instantly. It's far easier for appliance salespeople to know all about dish- washers than it Is for computer salespeople to know everything about their stock in trade. But If the salespeople you meet don't answer your questions and compound that fault by being rude or abrupt, you've got a right to complain. Remember the most essential fact that most computer salespeople don't teU you: As the customer, you're the boss! SI WHEN SALESPEOPLE SAY: 'nrou can't go wrong— this comput- er does everything and only costs $99/' YOU SHOULD ASK: "How much will it cost to put together a working system — ^with a tape re- corder (or disk drive), TV (or monitor), printer, and all the cables?" WHEN SALESPEOPLE SAY: "Buy it iiere, you pay $299. Buy it at JoJo's Computers, you pay $399.' r# YOU SHOULD ASK: "Do you give c week of training sessions like Jo- Jo's does? And do you get a one-year warran- ty?" WHEN SALESPEOPLE SAY: "If you iMfant to go beyond BASIC, you can also use the LOGO and PASCAL languages on this computer/' YOU SHOULD ASK: "What format do these languages come in? Does it mean I'll have to buy a disk drive?" DECEMBER 19S3 87 WhaFs a Computer? Since kids and computers make such o natural match, we turned to them with this difficult question. Here are answers given to FAMILY COMPUTING contributing editor Joey Latimer by some California kids. lv^^.;v.uo\ ^* i^c\ vt^ ft COMPUTER IS SOMETHING YOU MESS UP ON fiUTH KAUFMAN -f HAT BUSlNfc.|o 88 FAMILY COMPUTIN A COMPUTER IS H DOG WITH 16K r 4 XteS " TO DO PROGRAMMING fi COMPUTER IS LIKE TEACHING ft CAT NEW TRICKS LYLAMARQUEY 'fl COMPUTER TQ SOMETHING TMflT r^r, WHAT YOU Sflv COPIES 1?^ t '^x"^; ■^; ft COMPUTER X| ft TYPEWRITER' ftT.^- 1 t^tlXED TMTQU^^ ^ UECEMHKK 1983 89 Games for Two • • • or Ten PLAYING COMPUTER GAMES SHOULDNT BE A LONELY EXPERIENCE. YOU CAN INCLUDE YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY OR HOST A PARTY WITH ONE OF THESE SELEQIONS. ttY PHIL WISWELL fi / \i y ^^iwecf. ^ 90 FAMILY COMPUTING u 'nfortunately. when it comes to computer games, most peoples imaginations tend to stray into the arcade. There, rows upon rows of blinking, beeping, whirring boxes hold the soli- tary player translixcd, alone with a pocketful of quarters. Placed in the warm setting of a family or living room, however, computer games are uniquely different from their arcade step-sis- ters. They can become much more "'social" ma- chines. Whereas arcade action is generally lim- ited to one or two players engaged in shoot-'em-ups or inazes — pursuits that do build refle-xes, timing, and hand-eye coordina- tion— home computer games and the environ- ment of the living room are genuinely condu- cive to family interaction. And the nature of human competition is more keenly felt when a game includes two or more minds simulta- neously. Many multiplaycr games are so fascinating to watch and play that they interest and involve an entire group of players with a special kind of entertainment. These games tend to be richer and less predictable than the single-player type. Human opponents, after all, make mis- takes, use trickery, experiment with weird strategies, and always learn something about their opponent. And learning something about your friends and family is what play is all aboui. Almost everyone in the family should be able to enjoy these games, since all it takes is the skill to operate a keyboard or a joystick to share in the fun. The following recommenda- tions are designed to encourage everyone to play and to play together through the computer. SPORTS Soccer by Thorn EMI. available for Atari 400/ 800/1200 (canridge). S44.95: Joysticks re- quired. Owners of Atari computers often brag about having four joystick ports, but not many sports games have made use of this feature- Soccer is a four-player game that by itself near- ly justilies the purchase of extra joysticks. The playlield consists of three screens that scroll back and forth depending on the position of the ball. True to the real sport, each team has 1 1 players on the field. A player can intercept passes, trip opponents, dribble the ball, pass it to a teammate, or make a goal shot. Now for the neat part; Up to four people can each use a joystick and play on the same team against the computer, and at any point in the game, a quick press of your joystick button allows you to control the player nearest the ball. What all this spells is T*E*A'M*W*0*R*K. and it really feels great! With three or four against the computer, or with two against two. you get a lot of shouting, a lot of laughing, and a lot of role-playing, but more important, you get the deepest sports game of team strategy on the market. Soccer is a wonderful family computer game, and it's recommended for all age groups. Pecathlen by Microsoft, available for Apple II/II plus (disk). S24.95; controllers required. In the four years since Decathlon was first published, nothing has come along to replace it. Although players must alternate turns, it's still one of the best games to pull out in a social situation because of the variety of its 10 events and its ability to accommodate up to six play- ers. (The computer even calls you — by name — to the starting line for each event.) An awards ceremony is included at the end. Decathlon Is easily understood because it simulates events you're familiar with: the 100- metcr dash, long jump, shot put, high Jump, 110-meter hurdles, discus throw, pole vault, javelin throw, and. finally, an exhausting 1.500-meter run. Running is pretty straight- forward— a matter of tapping two keys as rap- idly as possible — but a combination of different keys is used for a complicated event such as the pole vault. Two fingers get up your running momentum, a press of another key plants your pole (in the box, one hopes), then a second kejqDunch causes your athlete to do a hand- stand on the pole, and a final tap makes your competitor let go. Fair warning: Don't be sur- prised if you don't clear the bars in the pole vault or high jump the first day you play this game. Decathlon is a game of timing rather than of wrist jerking, and strategic planning plays a very important role. For this reason and for the sake of newcomers, the computer will ask whether you wish to start the decathlon or run practice heats for specific events to warm up, so to speak. Teamwork is the key to Soccer, an action- packed challenge/or one-to-Jour players. PHiLwiswELL. a video- and computer-games critic, is the author of a series oj one-hour video cassettes, called How to Beat Home Video Games. His at-home office is often crowded with neighbors and Jriends (including those ojhis two-year-old son) who come to play one or more oJ the 700 games that line his shelves. DECEMBER 1383 91 Worms? players must train their siimy serpents to move while competing to track the largest percentage of the screen. Championship Baseball by Milton Bradley, available/or TI-99/4A (cartridge) S59.95. with voice recognition: $49.95. without voice recog- nition. The MBX Expansion System (S129J is required for voice recognition; Joysticks re- quired. Sports games on computers have always been complicated tay the need to access so many different team members, and games thai use fewer players than regulations call for don'l offer the rich strategic detail that is possible. Often, by the time you punch the proper but- ton and begin to chase the ball, the batter has rounded first base! Championship Baseball and the MBX unit do away with that through a technological innovation: voice recognition. Before the first pitch is thrown, both play- ers program the computer to recognize nine words that will identify their defensive team members. Thus, when the ball is hit to third base, you will have control of that position the moment you say "third" or "Brooks" or "Net- tles" or whatever word you've chosen to repre- sent your third baseman. A command such as "first" will cause "Brooks" to throw the ball to first base, and the computer will attempt to execute double plays upon the multiple com- mand "second, first." The defensive player uses both a headset/ microphone and a 64-key input pad. which chooses speed and type of pitch. Introducing finer stateg>r than previous video versions of our great American pastime. Batting and run- ning are done with the traditional joystick method. And the game not only understands English — il speaks English, as an umpire calls the balls, strikes, and outs. STRATEGY Richechet by Epyx. available Jor Apple Wile. Atari 4001800. VlC-20 (disk and cassette). S29.95. Richochet is evcrj'thing a two-player com- puter strategy game should be: ll makes use of the computer's ability to simulate games thai cannot be played in the physical world. Each player controls six moveable pieces, shaped like narrow rectangles, initially ar- ranged "bowling-pin fashion" in front of the goals you must protect at opposite sides of the screen. Each player also controls two cannons, one in each corner, aimed at 45-degree angles. The dots on the playfleld are there only to help you visualize the path a ball will take from either cannon. When a ball hits the top or bot- tom wall or a playing piece, it (urns 90 degrees and continues until one of two things happens: it exits the field between the goal and the can- non, or hits a cannon, rendering it unable to shoot for several turns. The pieces are used to block opponents' potential shots at your goals and cannons. But here's the catch — when a piece is hit, it turns from north-south to cast-west (or vice versa), which makes the game increasingly complicat- ed as some shots bounce around 50 or 60 times before coming to rest. This is displayed visually and audibly in an exciting, almost ar- cade fashion as the ball caroms off everything in sight. Worms? by Electronic Arts, available for Atari 800/1200. Commodore 64 (disk). S35. Worms?, a game of impressive, unique graphics, is one you'll have fun with, but it didn't necessarily start out that way. The game is based on a magazine article about a group of scientists at Cambridge and MIT who were working on patterns that could be created by artificial, mathematical, logically trained worms. Worms? takes off from there. As with Ricochet, the playing board is a field of dots, and each player simultaneously has a worm on screen that must be trained in order to move. Initially the worm, consisting of one small line connecting two dots, is "dumb." That is. on the "go" command, it shoots straight to the next dot, but stops and waits for your command: left, RiGtrr. down, up, or some combination. The worm then knows what di- rection to head in. Players take turns giving their worms instructions, but after a while the worms begin to move on their own. When one worm reaches an impasse, it must be trained how to tackle it before the other worms can continue moving. The object is to capture the most territory on the board. There are six directions for each dot, and the player to lay the last line to a dot wins thai territory, which changes to the color of his or her line. This game is rather abstract (you really can't expect yourself to understand idealized 92 FAMILY COMPUTING mathematical worms), but you can sure have fun and create the most beautiful three-dimen- sional line drawings you've ever had a hand in. And since most people end up playing by intu- ition, children and adults often compete at the same level. Concentration by HesWare, VIC-20 (cas- sette), S15.95. (Note: Although this game was recently discontinued, inventory remains high in many stores. Contact your dealer for auailability information.) This two-player challenge is recommended for its appeal to young children. Most people, even youngsters, seem to know the rules upon sight of the screen: There are 48 boxes on the match board, and behind each box is a symbol. The idea is to find matching symbols by alter- nating turns. During each turn a player may turn over only two boxes. It's a game of memory, and though the first matchboard is always the same, succeeding boards vary the symbol locations, making it very difficult to remember them. Manipulating the game is a breeze, done with a single joystick shared by the players. Just move to the box you want and press the button to reveal the symbol. You can't do any- thing wrong or get confused. Although Con- centration can be played solo, it's not recom- mended. The game Just doesn't make it without human competition. M.M.L.E. by Electronic Arts, available for Atari 400/800/ 1200XL, 48K. Commodore 64. $40 (disk) : Joystick required. This one-to-four-player graphic adventure game about carving a living from raw land ma- terials is a very social experience, attracting spectators like few other games. If the game isn't immediately exciting, the music will en- tice players from all corners of the house. The title stands for Multi Use Labor Element, a kind of mechanical mule that each player must use throughout the game. Not unlike the real animal, a M.U.L.E. takes on the personality of a stubborn character and your job is to get it to work for you in the most efficient manner. First, you must outfit your M.U.L.E. at the store, and this is an important part of the game because the equipment your M.U.L.E. carries dictates the kind of colonization you can attempt. The object, of course, is to cause your Investments to pay off more than those of your opponents. There are 44 plots of land you can buy at auction, each with a monetary, as well as stra- tegic, value. The planet, not unlike Earth, has three types of terrain: river areas, plains, and mountains, and each is particularly well suited for one type of activity. For example, food culti- vation is done most effectively on a plot near the river, and mining for minerals should be .ivinj RooH . . . his IS i lai^e and iHppessive fooh, vhose fumishings kspeajc the great personal walih of the Sohieps. The south sije of tm fddh has a laqt kay winJoH, noH closed, Muh looks cut onto the front Mard. On the iBst side is a Isige fieldstone fireplace nith nood piled kside it. A lai^e doable dooniay leads into tls itain hall and is the only exit fron the rooH. Pictures of Krs. Rotner s colonial ancestors hang on one nail. Ihe MOM contains rather fomal seating for at least fifteen people, in several gfoupi of ckiK arid couches. lailes and cabinets, all of tfe finest )ta}»qariy and sainut, costplete its fuKiishings, On one of tk tables is a P. totbap is sitting on tis sofa Isfs. Rk. F/jlnef is sitting Isre, biitting. ^ Hr, Baxter is sitting l»re reading a hook. } K-OHMHI m. ROEHEK HUH IHE SBICIM Wll Vou CdTi't see any SUICIM mil Isre. >fiCaiSE m. KlHEftS OF HUE5E! " ., ,, ^, ' "Hhat?^ she cries, "fcrder?" She wgains her coNiosuw and asks, "I thought he comitted suicide, Kith his i«aicine.' ..-^•«^^«,«^j, done in the mountains for the greatest reward. (Note to parents: M.U.L.E. was designed to ap- peal to both teens and adults. One of your options is to greedily spend a night at the local pub, gambling, in the hopes of Increasing your wealth.) It ail sounds fairly realistic, and because the game is "refereed" by the computer it is even more so — the computer periodically "cheats," introducing the random element of luck to an otherwise strategic contest. New World by Epyx. available for Apple II. TRS-80 (disk and cassette). S29.95. The New World consists of 13 potential col- onies across North and South America that you, as monarch of England, France, or Spain, must try to establish for your very own. One, two. or three can play, but three is ideal be- cause, for instance, when England takes a strong lead, France and Spain can join forces and try to take over English colonies. in turn, players must purchase equipment and recruit crews to set sail for the New World. Once you've colonized a territory, you can dig for gold, attack the native population, or sit back and collect taxes from the colonists. (His- tory does not recommend this last choice!) Don't count on anything in New World because the game is full of surprises, randomly generat- ed to keep players on their toes. The TRS-80 version is entirely text-based, and the Apple II adds a few graphic scenes, but nothing outstanding. Either version is good for youngsters since the game does not let you make mistakes or get confused. You are asked questions, given choices, and directed to the consequences. Recommended for the Colum- bus in all of us. All Baba fay Quality Sojtiuare. available for A text adventure. Deadline tests sleuths' skills in a race against the clock. Using interrogations, obsemations, and logic, players attempt to solve the mysterious homicide. DECEMBER 1983 93 One oj the more realistic compulerized pinball games. David's Mldnighl Magic Incorporaws even ihe tilljeamre. Apple Il/ll plus/He. Atari 400/800 (disk). S32. 95: Joysticks required. This classic adventure game accommo- dates up 10 four players, each using his or her own joystick. Operation is simple enough for youngsters because the computer prompts you 10 move by displaying your choices. If you don't react within three seconds, the computer as- sumes you arc resting this turn. The scenario is familiar: The princess has been kidnapped, and you, AJi Baba. must find your way through the dangers of Arabia and rescue her. Players do not cooperate in this game, because the goal is to get to the princess first. One of the most interesting aspects of the game is the wide variety of weapons you can carty with you. Your turn will allow you to move according to factors such as your strength and what objects you are carrying. And if you find the game too difficult, you can change the skill level while playing. The game is graphically appealing in high resolution, and the view is from overhead. Ali Baba is high fantasy, and though you have your share of battles that you can light, re- member that Ali Baba in myth was nonviolent. You will, of course, encounter potentially vio- lent situations: daggers and poison and un- trustworthy characters. Protect yourself, build strength, and leave avoidable lights behind you. Ali Baba is one of the best multiplayer games for Atari computers, and its variety of play options makes playing it over and over enjoyable, even after successful rescues. Deadline by Infocom, available for Apple lI/II phis/IIe/IH. Atari 400/800/1200X1 (diskj. S39.95: Commodore 64. IBM PC. Osborne. TI- 99/4A (disk). S49.95. Deadline is an interactive murder mj'stery whose object is to accuse the correct suspect with enough hard evidence by nightfall (a 12- hour game-time deadline). As the detective, you are provided with much more than a disk — you also get a lengthy Interview with the charac- ters, including the widow of the deceased, a police memo and lab report, a coroner's report, a letter from the crime scene, and a bag of tablets found near the body. And Ijecausc you will never solve this crime without serious study of all the evidence off screen as well as on. the e.\perience feels very real. This is an excellent puzzle requiring logical thinking and clever, sometimes intuitive, de- ductions, which makes solving the case easier with more than one player. The entire game consists of text — there are no graphics on screen- — but it's great text! Like other Infocom games. Deadline has a vocabulary of more than 600 words it can understand, most of which you have to discover by trial and error. Figuring out which words work is half the fun. Using short or complex sentences you can walk anywhere in the house, examine anything you find (and send it lo the lab for fingerprint- ing), and talk to the many suspects, some of whom hold valuable information. There are many possibilities to explore, and the game, like real life, doesn't wait for you to stumble on clues. If you aren't in the right place at the right time asking the right question, loo bad — you'll have to look for the answer elsewhere! ARCADE ACTION David's Midnight Magic by Broderbiind, available Jor Apple II plus/Ue. Atari 400/800/ 1200. and Commodore 64 (disk). S34.95. David Snyder, designer of the original Ap- ple version of this game, will go down in history for his contributions to computer pinliall de- sign. The tabic is so beautifully created and the action is so similar to the real thing that you may find yourself reaching for a quarter to start a new game. The game displays scores for one to four players, but if you think creatively, up to eight can play — pair into teams and let each control one flipper side. A set of Ilippcrs on the upper part of the table as well as one near the drop- out hole deepens the strategy and increases the action considerably from other computer pin- ball games, Many of the trappings of real pinball have been figured into the design of the table — roll- overs, multiple balls in play, a tilt feature, and a memorv' for the high score once the disk is removed from the drive. Maxe Craxe Construction Set by Data Trek. available for Apple I!, 48K (disk), S34.95. This disk is just what its name sounds like: a tool box full of all the things you need to 94 FAMILY COMPUTING create your own original maze/chase games that will make you forget about Pac-Man. Each of the 10 different basic boards represents a level of design and you can put them together in any order. You can also play the 10 different screens, some of which are quite challenging, before you try to create your own. In essence. each is like a little demonstration. But the real fun comes when you make your own game, and don't be surprised if a good part of the fun is ihc building process itself. That's where you can use more heads than one to help design and play-iesl the screens. And, like model building or learning to paint, this can be a real opportunity for parent- child interaction while you are learning to pro- gram a computer in the easiest possible way. You can alter the maze shape, creating endless winding passages or open, free-form boards. Dots, encrglzers. exit tunnels, and monsters are placed at will, along with a mov- ing random bonus prize. And then you can fine-tune the board by giving the monsters in- dividual levels of intelligence and setting your character's speed. If you don't like the looks of the premadc game characlcrs. you can use a graphics-generating device to create and color your own shapes. This is a really mar\-clous program, and maze fanatics who own an Apple should not be without Maze Craze. It's simple enough for a child to operate, while complex enough to cre- ate high-quality videogames. HONORABLE MENTION KabpORi! by Aciiviaion. available for Alari 400/800 (cartridge). S34.95. Originally designed as a single-player "catch the bombs" game on the VCR, this ver- sion more than doubles the excitement by al- lowing a second player to control the movement of the bomber. Computer Stocks & Bonds by Avalon Hill, aoailable Jor Apple U/U plus/lie. 48K (disk). 32K (cassette): Atari 400/800. 40K (disk). 32K (cassette): Commodore 64 (disk and cassette): TRS-80 1. Ill (disk and casseltel: disk. S25: cassette. $20. This electronic version of the classic board game accommodates up to four players. But because you can buy. trade, and sell at any time, not jusl in turn, the action is more fran- tic. And there's plenty of opportunity for under- the-table wheeling and dealing. A good family computer board game. Wixprd of Wor by Roklan, available Jor Ap- ple U (disk). S39.95: Atan 400/800 (carlridge). $44.95. The two-player version is a very cooperative game and a unique challenge. Players often find themselves walking through the monster- filled labyrinths back-io-back. protecting each other. There's a good deal of violent activity — when played alone, it's a "get them or they get you" situation. But when played with two peo- ple, your behavior becomes more defensive than offensive, since one of your goals is to protect your partner. Nonetheless, the object remains to mow down all the monsters you can in an effort to get to ihc next maze. An excel- lent translation of the coin-operated game. Lode Runner by Broderbund. available Jor the Apple U. 48K (disk). $34.95: Joystick re- quired. In this new ladder maze, which combines elements from many familiar games, your ob- ject is to recover loot from 150 different screens! But, more important, it has a game generator for creating your own screens and stringing them together into original games of Lode Runner. Another great family kit. Murder on the Zinderneuf by Electronic Arts, available for the Atari 400/800 and Com- modore 64 (disk). S40. This cleverly written murder mystery is set in a dirigible. To solve it you must "case the blimp." grill suspects, ask questions of appro- priate people, and eventually make an accusa- tion. This is a terrific game played by demo- cratic vote at a party. The Arcade Machine by Broderbund. avail- able Jor the Apple U and Atari 400/800. 48K (disk). S59.95. This is a programming kit for creating your own arcade style shoot-'cm-ups and Is in- credibly simple to operate. Players design at- tack formations, enemy speed and movements, and much more, including the graphic design of the characters themselves, SJ Murder on ihc Zindfirneuf .sends players airborne in a blimp, wliere they lake llic roles qfjamous (it'taciives in solving a murder mystery. DECEMBER 1 983 95 10 Gifts Your Computer Wants for Christmas JUST A FEW NECESSARY FRILLS TO AAAKE LIFE BETTER FOR BOTH OF YOU BY P. GREGORY SPRINGER wWh DO YOlf THROW THE TV UNDER THE BED WHEN YOU FINISH WATCHING IT? p. GREGOHY SPRINGER, a freelance writer from Urbana. Illinois, is a correspondent Jor The New York Times and Variety. 96 FAMILY COMPUTING 'hen I called up a catalog of my computer Jiles last iveek. I got a surprise. Myfiles hadn't been erased or tampered with, but there ivere 10 neuj ones. Where had they come from? I read them through and kneiv at once who'd authored them. It was my computer — or elves in the disk drive — who had snuck a Jew holi- day gift requests onto my disk. I hate to admit it, but some were quite reasonable (and some were a bit pricey). I finally concluded that what's good Jor my computer is probably good Jor me. loo. 9 Computers need roofs over their heads, too. Over time, dust will destroy disks and gum up keyboards. For less than S50. you can buy quilted dust covers for computers and peripherals, if you like the homespun look (Quilted Dust Covers, Covers A Lot. P.O, Box 369, La Honda. CA 94020). Canvas covers with monogrammed letters and brand logos also add a more personal touch than ordinary plastic see-through kinds. But the most appreciated gift may be the simplest and least expensive: Buy a large piece of attractive fabric, hem the edges, fold and sew boxed triangular comers, and — volla! — your computer knows you really care, [See "How to Make Your Own Computer Cover Jor Just a Few Dollars, " p. 81.] 2 SHADE Screen glare or reflections, caused by sunlight or electric light, can cause eye- strain. A tinted stick-on screen may help lessen that ache. Some commercial screens are leaded to prevent potentiall)' harmful rays from pass- ing through. Others simply restrict the glare from overhead or outside lighting. The stick-on screens may be flat or molded, and made of glass or plastic. The SDC An- tiglare Screen is a woven mesh of synthetic material that allows light from the CRT to pass through, but reflects no other tight at all (SDC Antiglare Screen, Screen Data Corporation. 240 Cedar Knolls Rd., Cedar KnoUs. NJ 07927: S44.50). Some people insist that a colored sheet of acrylic, bought for less than a dollar at an art supplies store will serve the purpose as well as anything — and then you can choose among violet, orange, chartreuse, blue, or any other color, not just the traditional green or amber. Alternatively try a monitor tilt stand, which allows you to rotate the monitor and tilt it back and forth to avoid glare (Microcomputer Accessories. Inc.. 1545 Pontius Ave., Los Ange- les. CA 90025). 3 SPACE still stuffing your beloved electronic workhorse into the closet after hours? Is that any way to treat a member of the family? Do you throw the TV under the bed when you finish watching it? Most computers really want rooms of their own, including a lock on the door. That may not always be possible, but at least give your computer some protected space, safe from spilled milk or last year's stacked baseball bats. Find a corner where the computer can re- side full time. A regular office desk will hold most computers, although carpenters in our town have found that simple tabletops re- named as "computer desks" are bringing in a lot of business. [See "How to Build a Compac, Computer Console for $25," in the Premier is- sue of FAMILY COMPUTING, and loofcjor "How to Build a Computer 'Murphy Bed' " in the Janu- ary issue.] 4 WRITING SUPPLIES If you're going to have a computer in the house, make it write. First, learn to type. There are learn-to-type programs for many computers, which teach your fingers how to fly over the keyboard. Next, choose a word-pro- cessing program with the capabilities you need; search/replace, move or erase blocks of text, underlining, etc, [See "Word Processing." on page 58. \ In addition, grammar checkers can tell you when your wording is archaic or awkward (but they won't know if verbs agree with nouns), and spelling checkers will catch you when you write nieghbor or Hoiloween (but they can't tell when weigh should be way]. For typing, composing, and editing, a well- supplied word-processing library will almost let your computer do your homework for you. Test before you buy, if possible. Some word-process- ing programs are quirky and cumbersome. And price varies tremendously. The powerful little Zorlqf. which 1 use on my TRS-80, has many capabilities available only on other software costing four times as much. 5. HARD COPY It's easier to write a thank you note or a term paper or a business letter with a computer, but isn't it a waste of time without a printer? Choosing which printer to buy can be as complicated as buying a computer. Do you need a thermal, dot-matrix, or letter-quality printer? Graphics capability? A serial or paral- lel interface? Will the printer work with your software? The cost has dropped amazingly for certain dot-matrix printers, and if all you need is a printed record of your work, these are fine. Letter-quality printers, whose output is virtual- ly indistinguishable from expensive typewrit- ers, are higher priced, bigger, noisier, slower — and considered by some to be more wonderful all around. [See "Buyer's Guide to Printers" in the November issue. ] IF YOU'RE GOING TO HAVE A COMPUTER IN THE HOUSE, MAKE IT WRITE. ILLUSTfMTlONS BY BILL UASSO DECEMBER 1983 97 RISING FROM AN 8K WEAKLING TO A 64K MEMORY MASTER IS SOMETHING ALL LITTLE COMPUTERS ASPIRE TO. Once you've chosen a printer, you may find it detracts from your time on the computer. If you have to print out multiple or vcr>' long files, the computer has to wail for the printing to finish before it frees up for use again. A printer buffer is another useful piece of hardware. It stores in memory the text you want to print, and lets you use the computer while the print- ing takes place. Buffers cost from S200 to S2,000, depending on how much memory they have. Spoolers work like buffers. They are pro- grams, imbedded in some software, that free the computer from the printer. Some word pro- cessors have spoolers built in, as do certain Disk Operating Systems. 6. READING MATTER The only way a working computer becomes obsolete is when its capacity is ig- nored by the user. Read. The rising ocean of ink from material written by, for. and about computers makes it hard to know where to begin and how to keep afloat. But take a stab at it. You'll find more uses for your computer with the help of an outside book or magazine. Un- like a refrigerator manual, your computer refer- ence book isn't the last word on what you can do with the machine. It may be fairly impossi- ble to read as well. Luckily, the computer book market is booming and you should keep an eye on texts that apply to your machine — for pro- grams, hints, debugging lips, information ex- change, balm and reassurance. A magazine subscription makes a nice, ongoing gift too. 7, MUSCLES Rising up from an 8K weakling to a 64K memory master is something all little com- puters aspire to. Most computers have this ability to build up their strength, and it may pay to improve your computer to meet your growing needs. There are many ways a computer can grow. Adding memory is just one of them. Some com- puters allow for a complete upgrade, easing the inevitable threat of obsolescence. New Disk Op- erating Systems, such as the widely used CP/M, can be incorporated by adding peripheral boards or a floppy disk, thus opening up a vast supply of software. New programming lan- guages, such as LOGO or PASCAL, may broad- en your capacity to create and learn beyond BASIC. A disk drive instead of a tape recorder, and^or an 80-column screen may also be used for your applications. Proceed with caution, though. A computer desk cluttered with unnec- essary add-ons may detract from the practical- ity of the essential tool. 8 FAST TALK A modem is a computer's link to the outside world. When all the brands and makes of computers get together over the phone, they speak the same language (ASCII). Human lan- guage should be so adaptable. But once they call each other, what's there to talk about? Plenty. Modems and supporting software (called communications software or terminal software) can upload (transmit) and download (receive) many kinds of information: 98 FAMILY COMPtrriNG games, electronic mail, merchandise orders, news, stock market quotes, movie reviews, en- tertainment directories, and club bulletins. And, they allow you to "chat" with another computer user, by typing in a message on the keyboard. Modems cost between $60 and S600, de- pending on how fast they transmit data, their ability to answer and originate calls, or dial automatically. Because telecomputing will have a growing importance in the computer world, some new computers, such as the Kaypro and the TRS-80 Model 100, have built-in modems. 9 STOCKING STUFFERS Floppy disks make the perfect stocking stuffers. Most computer owners can neither keep enough disks, nor keep them in order. Disks tend to fill up and foul up. A box of generic disks, costing about $20 for a pack of 10, makes a fine gift. You might also want to organize the disks you already have lying around your desk. Fancy plastic disk holders sell from $15 to 850, but a shoebox covered with colorful contact paper works well — another loving touch. To aid in organization, consider color-cod- ed disks. These are somewhat more expensive, but if you have trouble keeping track of disks the way some people do with keys, colored disks are what the doctor ordered. Red for fi- nancial data, green for addresses, blue for re- ports or letters, etc. (Rainbow Box Colored Disks, 10 disks in red, orange, yellow, green, and blue. Now available in other colors, Cen- Tech Inc.. 183 Cottage Ave., Sandy. UT 84070; $34.95.) Another good idea is to have a duplicate set of disks — in case the dog eats the originals. For each working disk, you should have a backup copy. Making backups seems like a nuisance, but it doesn't take long. And sooner or later it will save you some time and effort, which makes the extra effort worthwhile. 10 BODYGUARDS It's pretty hard to hurt a com- puter, but accidents do happen. Spilled milk, blueberry muffin crumbs, and surges or drops in electric power are the most likely culprits. So keep some tools handy. A set of miniature screwdrivers (Including Phillips], wrenches, and tweezers can be used to tighten loose wires or parts, and to reach foreign substances gum- ming up the works. Tweezers are particularly helpful for getting jammed paper out of printer wheels. A small typewriter brush and/or a small vacuum cleaner is great for keeping your key- board in spit-and-polish condition. As for glitches in the power line, preventive medicine is in order. Various products to regu- late the flow of electric power exist, from simple multiplug power strips — which hold all the plugs for computer and peripherals and regu- late minor surges — to uninterruptable power systems that actually take over power for 20 minutes In case of a blackout (Electronic Pro- tection Devices, Inc.. P.O. Box 673, Waltham, MA 02254). During thunderstorms, it's not a bad idea to unplug the computer altogether — lightning can send hardware-damaging shock waves through the power lines. Static electricity, leaping off your winter rug and clothes, may not harm the hardware, but it can cause the program you're working on to go berserk. A hard plastic floor covering un- der the computer desk can help, as will the household spray for "static cling," Static Guard. This can be found at many drug and grocery stores. DURING THUNDER- STORMS, IT'S NOT A BAD IDEA TO UNPLUG THE COMPUTER ALTOGETHER- LIGHTNING CAN DAMAGE HARDWARE. Weill Very Jew stones left unturned on this list! I don't expect tojuljill all these requests this year, but I do see the virtue in all of them. Shelter, shade, and space, for instance, all make the computer more accessible and easi- er to use. And everything else will make the computer more powerful, and thereby expand its usefulness to me. I'm sure that's what the computer had in mind.M DECEMBER 1983 99 How People and Machines Can Work in Harmony PART TWO OF A SPECIAL REPORT ON ERGONOMICS BY JANE WOLLMAN I JANE WOLLMAN iS alSO thc author of "A No-Hassle Way to Shop?" in (fas issue. Part one qj' her report on enjonomics was published last month. 100 FAMILY COMPUTING t happens to most families when they buy the first computer for their home. Everyone is so excited about learning how to handle the machine that no one gives much thought to the table and chair used for working at it. Any available furniture will do. new owners simply assume. And so family members — who may range a great deal in size — wind up sitting on folding kitchen chairs and perching the com- puter on card or coffee tables. It doesn't take long to discover that these makeshift arrangements can be highly uncom- fortable and may even cause painful backache, cramped muscles, and eyestrain— problems that can reduce the joy of computing. Fortunately, these disturbing side effects can be prevented by setting up an ergonomic work center. Ergonomics is the science of adapting equipment and working conditions to meet human needs. And by using crgonomical- ly designed furniture and accessories, you can make the hours spent at your computer a lot more comfortable — and productive. (Last month, in part one of this report on ergonom- ics, we described guidelines and useful devices for avoiding eyestrain and noise from printers.) CHAIRS Buying a chair that properly supports the small of your back is thc first step to ache-free computing. Dennis Meyers, a television engi- neer living in New Rochclle, New York, learned this the hard way from months of sitting in a bridge chair at his home computer screen. "Af- ter an hour or so. I'd begin to squirm around." he says. "And then when 1 stood up to go to another part of the desk, the chair would some- times fold up and collapse behind me." You'll want a swivel chair on self-locking casters, with short, recessed arms that will let you move in close to the desk. The seat ought to be fairly firm, and you should be sitting with most of your body, weight on your buttocks and your feet fiat on the floor. This distribution will take the pressure off your thighs: such stress, if excessive, can lead to restricted circulation and, eventually, to blood-vessel damage. By all means, take lots of time to try out chairs in the store before buying. The best-designed chairs allow you to vary the height of both seat and back, and provide continuous support as you lean forward and back. These chairs also are pneumatically con- trolled— using cylinders of compressed gas — and can be precisely adjusted by pressing le- vers while you're seated. Some of the more adaptable pneumatic chairs include Alma Desk Company's Zucomat Series, priced from about S535, and the Prima I! series, about $435, from Martin Instrument Company, which fea- tures tiltabie seats as well. DESKS Once you've found the right chair, the next consideration should be the work surface. "What you're looking for is a harmonious rela- tionship between the table, keyboard, and chair," notes Michael Wodka, a senior associate at an Ann Arbor, Michigan, research and of- fice-consulting company. There is a growing selection of computer desks, tables, and stands, priced from about S60 to almost S2.000, designed especially for home use. Besides your physical comfort, when choosing a work station you must also keep in mind the size of your computer, the uses you put it to, and any near-term equipment-expan- sion plans. \. IMi I ""^mmmffm ^.... :^^' i j ILLUSTRATIOHS BY CAKTSK COODHICH DECEMBER 19B3 101 KEEPING ELBOWS FLEXED AT A 90- DEGREE ANGLE IS CONSIDERED THE MOST COMFORTABLE POSITION. A CAPSULE GUIDE TO AN ERGONOMIC WORKSTATION To enjoy the most comfortable, convenient and carefree computing, you should keep the following suggestions in mind. SCREEN 1. To avoid glare, don't place the display facing a window. 2. Use a low-glare screen, or place an an- tiglare filter over the screen. 3. Tilt the screen so that a minimum of light is reflected on it. 4. The top of the display should be at eye level. 5. Is the resolution sharp enough for the work you need to do? (A higher resolution is better for word processing or spreadsheet work because of the large amount of text. ) 6. People who use computers for long pe- riods of time should tell their eye doctors during annual exams. A doctor may want to prescribe special lenses. #^;^'' KEYBOARD 1. Detached units are often more com- fortable and convenient. 2. If youll be doing a lot of word process- ing, consider using a palm rest. PRINTER 1. Thermal printers are quieter than Im- pact printers. 2. To muffle noise, place the printer in an acoustical cabinet lined with foam. 3. Carpet the floor — but use carpeting woven with antistatic threads or an acrylic mat that automatically discharges static when stepped on. 4. If your printer is apt to vibrate a near- by computer, consider moving it to a sepa- rate table so as not to disturb the unit. 5. Those who can afford it may want to insulate the entire workroom. CHAIRS 1. Look for a swivel chair on self-locking casters with short, recessed arms. 2. The chair must properly support the small of your back, and you should be able to vary the height of both seat and back. DESK 1. The desk must work together with your chair, table, and other accessories. 2. Keep in mind the size of your comput- er, the uses you plan to put it to, and any expansion plans. 3. Sitting with your elbows flexed at a 90- degree angle is considered the best position for keying in data. 4. Ideally, the keyboard and monitor sur- faces shottld be separate, so they can be raised, lowered, or tilted. 102 FAMILY coMPtrrrNG Once again, focus on adjustability. Ideally, both keyboard and video display surfaces should be separate, or articulated, sections that can be raised, lowered, and tilted accord- ing to your needs. Sitting with your elbows flexed at a 90-degree angle is considered the most comfortable position for keying in data; and both desk and chair should be adjusted accordingly, advises Richard Koffler, publisher of The Ergonomics Newsletter, in Santa Moni- ca, California. The most flexible work station units typi- cally come designed as computer stands, which are also narrower and take up less space than desks or tables. Two intelligently planned stands are Rangine Corporation's triple-tier ar- ticulated system, priced at S450, and Taylor Woodcraft's S349 pedestal stand. The latter's height is pneumatically controlled, and it has a keyboard ledge adjusting from 22 to 28 Inches high. Next to work stations with adjustable sur- faces, the most beneficial desks and tables come with a keyboard shelf permanently fixed a few inches lower than the rest of the desk to make typing more comfortable and a rear raised platform to elevate the video display. Ergonomic computing can also include the convenience of keeping materials within arm's reach; and many desks arc available with shelves and cabinets to store peripheral equip- ment, manuals, paper, and other supplies. One of the more reasonably priced and well-appoint- ed systems is Gusdorf Corporation's #4270 desk and #4290 hutch, together costing $258, which includes a lap drawer and five shelves. The display ledge is height-adjustable and can be mounted on either the right or left side. Look for other special features available with some desks, such as single-cord multi- outlet packs for plugging in equipment cables; compartments for holding disk drives and dis- kettes: a built-in telephone jack; and metal static strips for discharging electrical static, which can interfere with computer functions, KEYBOARDS Although chances are the keyboard won't be the predominant factor in your choice of computer, you might keep in mind that the detached type — as opposed to one that comes as part of the processing unit — is more com- fortable and convenient to use. You can posi- tion it virtually anywhere on the desk, and, when you're not typing in data, you can slide it out of the way to, for instance, make room to write in longhand. In addition, many desks come with separate dropped ledges on which to place the keyboard. No matter which keyboard you use, if word processing is a major activity, you may want to purchase a foam-filled palm rest, such as one from Litton Business Furniture, priced at $25. It clamps onto the edge of the desk or ledge and reduces strain from long periods of typing. PRINTER TABLES Many computer desks come equipped with special slotted surfaces to feed paper to a print- er. But if your printer is one that's apt to vi- brate the computer standing next to it. you might like to invest in a separate printer table, priced from Si 00. The most efficiently designed units will have a shelf to hold the supply of paper and some provision to catch completed printouts. (You can, however, attach a separate basket to accumulate "hard" copy at the rear of almost any printer table.) If you buy a separate printer table, be sure it can be used with the type of printer — bottom- or rear-feed — that you own. Some tables, however, can accommodate both types of paper feed. ACCESSORIES Like palm rests and monitor turntables (the latter discussed in last month's issue), there are a number of computing accessories avail- able to boost your comfort level. For instance, you could consider a pair of nonslip footrcsts if your feet don't quite reach the floor or if you are prone to back strain. (Don't use phone books — they slide around.) Two footrests give you more flexibility to roll from place to place along the length of your desk. One reasonably priced model, at S27.95, is made of steel, topped with ribbed rubber, and can be pur- chased from Misco Computer Supplies and Ac- cessories, a New Jersey mail-order company. Another item that could come in handy — if you are somewhat reluctant to replace your fa- vorite desk with a computer work station — is a special top with a lowered, adjustable keyboard shelf that converts a standard desk into an ergonomic model. Hamilton-Sorter Co., for one, makes these tops, priced at SI 49. Happily, It doesn't require a major invest- ment to find comfort while computing. Some- times just an inexpensive piece of furniture can make all the difference. For instance, Rich- ard Lang, a ninth-grader in Franklin Square. New York, kept his computer on a snack table in his bedroom. To reach It, Richard had to sit hunched over on the bed to work the comput- er, while straining to see the video screen that stood on his dresser. Then the Langs installed a table with an attached display platform. Apart from remedying Richard's aching neck and back, the table also provides room for peripheral equipment the family plans to add this year. "Before, the only way to have space for everything was to keep buying more snack tables," says Richard's mother, Joann. "That would have become pretty hairy." But the ergonomic home computer cen- ter— designed to meet human needs — means more than merely working at a neat, unclut- tered desk. It can make the difference between suffering chronic aches and pains from twist- ing and turning at the computer or keeping your feet on the ground and staying healthy, [«| CONSIDER A PAIR OF NONSLIP FOOTRESTS IF YOUR FEET DON'T REACH THE FLOOR. DECEMBER 1983 103 I 104 FAMILY COMPUTING We pROVOkE,/ilVIUSE,STilVluUTE,SpUR, dELiqhT,AWAkENjNTRiliUE,ChALLENqE... — WETicklEThEIVliNd. M C * ^ ■ 1 §==■' fer S^iM^ w^^^^^^^^ Atafi 400ytOO/120(»L. amJ IBM-PC. If you're looking for computer programs that can satisfy you in special ways, take a look at CBS Software. We've got progroms thot tickle the mind. SUCCESS WITH MATH SERrES" (Apple, Atari, Commodore) Students who want to get ahead in math — or, students who wont to catch up— will find these clossroom- lested programs add up to positive results! ADDITION/SUBTRACTION and MULTIPLICATION/DIVISION, are for elemen- tory level and up, LINEAR EQUATIONS is for grades 7-10, and QUADRATIC EQUATIONS is for grades 8-11. MASTERING THE SAT'" (Apple, IBM)- It's a private tutor that helps college-bound students score better on the Scholastic Aptitude Test! Developed with the National Association of Secondary School Principals. MASTERrNG THE COLLEGE BOARD ACHIEVEMENT TESTS: ENGLISH COMPOSI- TION™ (Apple, IBM)— This comprehensive, self-paced preparation program covers the four categories of questions found in the ECAT — helps students analyze their need for further study CHARLfS GOREN: LEARNING BRIDGE MADE EASY™ (Apple, IBM)- You'll play better bridge by actually learning from the world's foremost bridge authority, Charles Goren. O I9a3 CBS Inc. A Unit of CBS Jnc , Ore Fowcett Ploce. Greenwich, CT 0683A. (M3) 62?-2503 "Apple' is n liodemork 0l Apple Compuler, lnc 'A?on' is a Irobefnorii of Atorj. Inc. "CCW is a ifOdenwrV of Children's Computer Wortihop, Ifk. 'Comnwiore' is 0 lrod«nork of CommaJorfi Business M^hines. Inc "lEW is a frtxteitvtrit of Inlematkyxil Business Mochines Corp. MYSTERY MASTER'": MURDER BY THE DOZEN" (Apple, Commodore, IBM)- Mystery buffs con sharpen their deductive reasoning skills on this exciting and enter- taining concept in crimebreaking: the compudunit! Twelve crimes can be investi- gated by up to four players in a race to unmosk the perpetrator, MATCH-WITS'" (Apple, IBM)- Here's a challenge to your knowledge and powers of concentration and memory. Play it solo- better yet, in competition— and if that's not enough, progrom in your own challenges! We know you're itching for software thot con do more for you. Discover CBS Soflwore. And let us tickle your mind. SOFTWARE Specfravideo's new letuickshof III gives you a belter handle on Coleco Games VAth ^Dectravideo's new Quickshof^ III Iciystick, you'll realty be able "to handle" those challenging Colecovislon games. . ynhether it's Coleco's own games or the exciting ones Spectravideo now makes for Colecovlsion. Not only is ttie QulckstK)t III a big im- provement over other Coleco-compatible joysticks, we think it's the most advanced, superbly-crafted joystick controller in the world. The two buttons (for separate functions) on the grip make one-hand play possible, and this is a real advantage. However, if your trigger fingers tire, your can simply switch to two-hand control by employing the two fire buttons on the controller base. The grip itself is contoured and unbelievably comfortable, and the easy- read Numeric Keypad allows you to select game levels and numt>er of players. The Quickshot III also features self- siabiliang suction cups and a converrlent extra long cord. If you're tired of coming out second best to those tough (but fun) Colecovlsion games, pick up the Quicksfiot III. And show 'em who's boss. Two sets of Independent tire buttons. Special "Easy Read" Numeric Keypad, More comfortably designed contoured tiandle. Extra long cord plugs into either Colecovlsion game machine or Spectra Video's Coleco Game Adapter. Built-in suction cups. .d^^. ■^ii^ssPRUinEa. Quickshotlll AIJ Specir^vjdeo products are lepresented Nationwide by The Lexington Group (201 ) 664-361 1 ColecovJaton ts a Irademark of Coleco Industries, Inc. "5 ^ -^ ll.UISTIIATIOSS nv .lOSIlUA GOSFIF.I.D M B HOLIDAY PROGRAMS Page 110 Three programs to make your holiday season a special one with the help of your computer. PUZZLE Page 140 Can you find your mother in a crowded department store? Your only clues are the people on her gift list. READER-WRITTEN PROGRAM Page 144 Baffle your friends — write a letter in code! A program that lets you create your own character sets on the Atari. ILLUSTHATION HY JIM CHEHKY III •^^mlf WE'RE VERY HARD ON OUR SOFTWARE You might even say we're perfectionists. Because at Softsmith'," we give our software the hardest workout, the toughest testing, the most rigorous evaluation. The result is software that has earned our confidence, and will justify your trust. In particular, we do three things that make Softsmith software the most dependable you can buy. 1, We're picky. Out of the hundreds of programs Softsmith evaluates every month, we choose to publish very few. A lot of good pro- grams are rejected; but we think you can't be too picky when it comes to personal computer soft- ware. Our selectivity is your best assurance of quality. 2. We complain a lot. If you were a programmer, and Softsmith accepted your program, you would have a right to be proud. But you shouldn't go on vacation yet. Because no matter how good that program may be, Softsmith evaluators will suggest some improvements; politely, but firmly. We may complain a lot, but 3. We insist on plain English. After we've made the best program better, we're still not finished. Because we know that even the best program is no good if it's too hard to use. So we put a lot of time and effort into translating our instructions from computerese into plain English. people thank us later. We publish software you can trust. Yes, we pick our programs carefully. And complain a lot to make them better. And insist on plain English instructions. The result is a library of personal computer software you can depend on. Even if you don't know a Pascal compiler from an emulation subroutine. Softsmith has programs you can trust for all the most popular personal computers. Programs for Education, Home Manage- ment, Entertainment, Word Processing, Business, Communications and Programming. Ours is the largest library of quality software under one brand name. So before you choose a software package for your computer, make sure someone's taken the time to be hard on it. Make sure it's Softsmith, the software you can trust. Ask for Softsmith brand software wherever computers or software are sold. Or call us TOLL-FREE at (800) 341-4000 for the name and location of your nearest dealer. Sollsmith Corp., 1431 Doolittle Dr., San Leandro.CA 94577. A company of The Software Guild:" K SOFTSMITH S (3 P T W A R E L I 13 K A R Y SMITHWRITER JUMPS OVER THEQUICKBROWN FOX Take a great leap forward in word processing with Smithwriter, from Softsmith'" Corporation. It's the dependable, inexpensive and easy-to-use text-handling pro- gram for your Commodore 64 or VfC-20.* Smithwriter uses its power to simplify the mechanics of writing. Other programs require multiple keystroke commands for most editing functions. Smithwriter does them with a single stroke. And Smithwriter's simplicity car- ries over to the instructions, too. They're written in that rarest of all computer languages, plain English. Don't let the simplicity fool you, though. Smithwriter does things you would expect to find in pro- grams costing at least 3 times as much: automatic centering, super- and subscript printing, underlining, italicizing and double-width spacing. The pro- gram is already configured for the most popular printers, so you can start using it right away. Whetheryou're writing the Great American Novel or letters to friends, Smithwriter is the pro- gram you should trust with your words. It's part of the Softsmith library of quality software. All Softsmith programs have been painstakingly tested, improved and clearly documented to create the most dependable brand of software you can buy. Softsmith has the largest library of software programs under one brand name, for all the most popular personal computers. Programs for Educa- tion, Home Management, Enter- tainment, Business, Communica- tions and Programming. All are backed by our Toll-Free customer service number, to give you expert help if you need it. Ask for Softsmith brand software wherever computers or software are sold. Call us Toll-Free at (800) 341-4000 for the name and location of your nearest dealer. Dealer inquiries invited. ■Requires 16K expander lor VIC-20. Available on d isk or cassette for botti the Commodore 64 and VIC-20. Commodore and VIC-20 are (rademarks of Commodore Business fulachines, Inc. Quick Brown Fox is a trademark of Quick Brown Fox. SOFTSMITH SOFTWARE L I 15 R A K HOLIDAY PROGRAMS CHRISTMAS TREE BY JOEY LATIMER ■ ■ D ^^^^^1 1 ^H ^F 0 ^^^^H 1 ^1 ^P G ' ^1 1 ^H 10 I i ■ "'J ' ' Lj VIM ^^^^^HH in 1 ■l^^^^B ^^^^H HJPlHi Ibhi I) THEN 400 The Commodore 64 version of Christmas Tree As the snow falls outside, your family can gather 'round the computer with glasses of eggnog and fall under the spell of our Christmas Tree program. Watch your computer trim a tree on the screen and surround its base with beautifully wrapped pre- sents, while the tree lights flicker to the familiar tune of an old Christmas song. [Note: The TRS-80 Models I & III and Timex versions do not include music. 1 256 + PEEK (115) Apple! Christmas Tree IB HM ~ PEEK (116) 20 HIMEM; HM - 23 3(3 DIM LISHTOB) ,BOX (3,2) ,S<64) 40 BR 30 POKE -16302,0 60 CALL -199B 70 INC = 2 B0 COUNT ~ 19 90 CaLOR= 4 100 FOR A ■= 7 TO 33 110 HOLD = A 120 FOR B = 1 TO 2 130 GOSUB 2000 140 NEXT B 150 COUNT = COUNT - 1 160 INC = INC + 2 170 NEXT A 180 READ C,L,H,X 190 IF C = -1 THEN 250 20O CDLaR= C 210 FOR A = L TO H 220 VLIN X,44 AT A 230 NEXT A 240 GOTO 180 2S0 COLOR- 13 260 FOR A = 1 TO 13 270 READ F,e 2B0 PLOT F,G 290 NEXT A 30P) FDR A = 1 TO 3 ?:0 READ BOX (A,l) ,B0X(A,2) 320 NEXT A 330 FOR A = 12 TO 17 340 COLORE 10 350 IF A <> IMT (A / 360 PLOT A,B0X(1 , 1) 370 PLOT A, BOX (2,1) 3B0 PLOT A, BOX (3, 1) 390 GOTO 430 400 PLOT A, BOX < 1,2) 410 PLOT A, BOX (2,2) 420 PLOT A, BOX (3,2) 430 NEXT A 440 CDLOR= 13 450 FOR A = 36 TO 44 460 TEMP = A 470 C0LOR= 3 480 IF TEMP - 2 * INT (A / 2) THEN HLIN 24,28 AT A 490 NEXT A 500 COLOR* 1 510 FDR A = 30 TO 36 520 VLIN 42,44 AT A 530 NEXT A S40 CDLOR= 2 550 HLIN 30,36 AT 43 560 PLOT 33,42 570 PLOT 33,44 5B0 FOR A = 1 TO 50 590 READ LI6HT(A) 600 NEXT A 610 COLOR= 5 620 VLIN 4,6 AT 20 630 COLOR" 3 640 PLOT 20,3 650 LCOUNT = 1 660 FOR X = 0 TO 22 670 READ Y 6Ba PaKE(HM - 22 + X),Y 690 NEXT X 700 FOR A = 1 TO 64 710 READ S(A) 720 NEXT A 730 VAR = 31 740 GOSUB 1000 750 VAR = 63 760 60SUB 1000 770 VAR = 31 780 GOSUB 1000 790 COL = INT(RND(1) ♦ 9) + 1 800 IF COL > 2 AND COL < 6 THEN 790 ai0 COLOR= COL 820 PLOT 20,3 830 FOR I = 1 TO 500 840 NEXT I TO VAR STEP 2 850 GOTO 730 1000 FOR B = 1 TO 1010 X = S(B) 1020 Y = S(B + 1) 1030 Y = 49980 / Y 1040 X = X * (400 1050 I = INT <X / 1060 J = X - 256 * 50 THEN COLORE INT (RND (1) ■ Y) ♦ .25 :S6) I 1070 POKE 6, J 1080 POKE 7,1 1090 POKE 8,Y 1100 CALL HM - 22 1110 IF LCOUNT * 9) + 1 1120 PLOT LISHTCLCOUNT) ,LIGHT(LCOUNT + 1) 1130 LCOUNT = LCOUNT + 2 1140 IF LCOUNT >= 50 THEN LCOUNT = 1 1150 NEXT B 1160 RETURN 2000 PLOT COUNT, A 2010 FOR C = 1 TO INC 2020 PLOT COUNT + C,A 2030 NEXT C 2040 A <= HOLD + 1 2050 RETURN 3000 DATA 8,19,21,35,11,3,5,38,11,7,10,37 3010 DATA 5,8,8,37,2,12,17,39,9,24,28,36 " ^ 1 10 FAMILY COMPUTING For canmies ^^4io aie serious about FUN.., Now, you can get brand-new computer games for families who want more than shoot-'em-up space wars with flat stick-figure graphics. These are absorbing one-of-a-kind games that will treat you to the most advanced color animation ever for the Apple® Personal Computer. Children delight in the bubble-gum colors and cartoon-like anima- tion. Grownups and game connoisseurs are challenged by the ex- pert skills and strategy required to survive to the final rounds. Look for this new software — aeated by Optimum Resource, Inc. and distributed by Weekly Reader Family Software — in finer computer stores. Or call toll-free 1 -800-852-500 Dept AC-6. Apple liar Apple I[ + . with 4SK jnd one disk drive. 3 3 DOS jtid Apple He or Apple Ifl. Keyboard, pdddles or lay stlck- Sackybeii. Old Ilpnstdes, Cktvdry and Fii City ate registered trade- marks of OpMmum ResDuice. [nc. Apple and Apple N. Il + .IIeandllUre registered trade- marks of Apple Computer, Inc. Aj^2g-G6 old Ironsides"" Thrilling 2-piayer naval bat- tle. Use the wind, compasses, cannons to outwit your op- ponent! Detailed graphics recreate true sailing ejcpeil- ences. Poster. Log Book in- cluded. Ages 8 to 99. Only $39.95 StlcJtybeai™ Bop Animated shooting galleries of Stlckybears. ducks, planets, more. Pop-up game, poster, stickers included. Ages 3 to 99- Only $39.95 NEW Chivalry'" Unique baardgsme and soft- ware combination. To rescue the king, play 20 animated games of skill and chance — Jousting, tournaments, etc. For 1 to 4 players. Sturdy 21" X 24" gameboard, playing pieces, poster, instructions, strategy hints included. Ages 8 to 99- Only $49.95 NEW Fat City'" Operate a wrecker to flatten buildings as garbage cans are hurled at you from windows. 9 different towns. Poster, stickers Included. Ages S to 99. Only $39.95 NEW Stlckybear™ BaskeCbounce Win points by catching fall- ing bricks, donuts or stars be- fore running out of baskets. 16 rounds. Poster, desk-top mobile, stickers Included, Ages 3 to 99 Only $39-95 Weekly Reader Family Software A division of Xerox Education Publications Middletovm, CT 06457 HOLIDAY PISOGRAMS 3020 3030 3040 3050 3060 3070 3080 3090 3100 3110 3120 3130 314S 3150 3 1 i0 3170 3180 3190 DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA 1,30,36,42,-1,-1,- 4,38,4,39,3,40,4,' 5,41,3,42,4,42,5,' 40,42,44,39,41,43 5,41,3,42,4,42,5, 40,42,44,39,41,43 21 ,9,24,20,21 , 11 , 16,21,26,34,8 ^-■ -1,-1 40,5,40,3,41 ,4,41 47.4.43.4.44 42,4,43,4,44 ,^1 ,^a ,--.t , o, J ;i',33, 10,27,25, 32,31 , 13 , 33, 16 29, _ 30 , a 7S 30, a, 30 230,7, 166,6, 164,8 234,234, 136,208,2! 198,7,208,238,96 2,196,3,262,1 ,262 1 ,330,6,330,2,330 3,247,4,292,4,262 2,49980,2,392,2,3' 394,2,392,2,349,6 294,6,392,2,349,2 19,11,24,15,21,16 30,26, 19,22, 17, 16 ,21 ,26, 14,24, IB ,31,29,30,15,27,27 , 173,48,192,234 50 ,202,208,242 ,4,262,4,294,3,330 ,2,294,2,330,4,349 ?3, 2, 330, 6, 440, 2 ,349,2,349,2,349,2 ,349,2,330,4,330 Atoril ehrtstmas Tree 10 GRAPHICS 1 1 20 READ C, X,Y,Z,D,F 30 COLOR C 40 PLOT X,Z 50 DRAWTD Y,Z 60 X=X-D 70 Y=Y+D 80 Z=Z+1 90 IF Z=F THEN U0 100 GOTO 40 110 READ C,X ,Y,Z,F,S 120 IF X=-l THEN 190 130 COLOR Z 140 PLOT X,Z 150 DRAWTD Y,Z 160 Z=Z+S 170 IF Z>F-3 THEN 110 190 60T0 140 190 READ P,D,X,Z 200 IF P=-l THEN 310 210 FOR T=l TO D 5TEP 2.5 220 SOUND 2,P, 10,15 230 NEXT T 240 BOUND 2,0, 10,0 250 C=INT(RND<i)*9>+l 260 IF C=7 THEN 250 270 COLOR C 2B0 PLOT X , 2 290 DRAWTO X , Z+2 300 GOTO 190 318 RESTORE 1980 320 GOTO 190 1000 DATA 12,40,40,8,. 12,158,1,38,42,150,191 1010 DATA 1,4,19,34,169,191,1,7,52,60,169,191 1020 DATA 1,6,44,50,176,191,2,8,19,34,179,183 1030 DATA 1,8,23,26,169,191,1,14,25,26,165,170 1040 DATA 1,3,46,47,171,177,1,11,46,47,176,191 1050 DATA 1,2,52,60,175,178,1,2,52,60,180,184 1060 DATA 1,2,55,55,169,191,1,6,52,60,176,183 1070 DATA 1,-1 ,-1,-1 ,-1,-1,-2 1080 DATA 108,125,48,148,81,187,54,135,81,63 1090 DATA 29,106,81,375,42,42,72,125,27,149,64 1100 DATA 125,26,129,64,63,41,106,64,375,47,82 1110 DATA 64,125,38,37,72,125,50,124,64,125,43 1120 DATA 140,60,250,34,119,85,250,32,89,72 1130 DATA 250,37,100,81,250,39,69,0,125,31,140 1140 DATA 108,125,36,147,81,187,45,116,81,63 1150 DATA 39,130,81,375,43,77,72,125,35,62,64 1160 DATA 187,50,124,64,63,43,140,64,250,34 1170 DATA 119,64,125,32,89,72,125,48,148,64 1180 DATA 125,54,135,60,250,29,106,85,250,42 1190 DATA 42,72,250,26,129,81,259,41,106,0,125 1200 DATA 47,82,53,125,38,37,53,125,37,106,64 1210 DATA 125,39,69,48,373,31,140,53,125,36 1220 DATA 147,53,125,45,116,60,125,39,130,60 1230 DATA 375,43,77,60,125,35,62,60,125,50,124 1240 DATA 72,125,43,140,53,375,34,119,60,125 1250 DATA 32,89,60,125,48,148,64,125,54,135,64 1260 DATA 230,29,106,108,250,27,149,81,187,26 1270 DATA 129,81,63,41,106,81,250,47,82,72,250 1280 DATA 38,37,64,125,37,100,64,63,39,69,64 1290 DATA 375,31,141,64,125,36,147,72,125,45 1300 DATA 116,64,125,39,130,60.250,43,77,85 1310 DATA 250,35,62,72,250,50,124,81,250,50 1320 DATA 124,0,250,40,5,-1,-2,-1,-1 1330 DATA 39,130,81,375,43,77,72,125,35,62,64 1340 DATA 125,26,129,64,63,41,106,64,375,47,82 1350 DATA 47,82,53,125,38,37,53,125,37,100,64 Nole: This program will not work on older Atari 400s. Commodore 6/11 Christmas Tree lid Phi NT CHR* (14/> 20 POKE 53280.0 25 POKE. 53281,0 30 r-QKE 5328 1,0 40 READ B.CH,CO 'r.iB IF &=-2 THEN 14ld o0 FDR Z-1 ro B 70 READ >, . T 80 FOR P=X-U000 ro Y+1000 90 POKE P,CH 100 POKE P+54272.C0 110 NE<\( F 1J0 NEXT Z 130 GOfU 40 140 RESTORE 150 READ X,^ ,Z 160 IF I --^ THEN 150 170 V=54296 180 W=542 76 190 A=54277 200 HF =54273 210 LF=54272 .:; tl 5=54278 .i-J.M PH=54275 240 PL=54274 250 POKE V, 15 2e>0 POKE W. 17 ;:70 POKE A, 190 280 PUKE PH,15 29a POKE PL, 15 300 READ H.L ,ij,P 311? II- H-- L I HEW 14W 320 POKE HF.H 330 POKE LF ,L 340 FOR A=D-50 TO D-20 350 PUKE &, 136 360 NEXT X 370 FOR T"l (O D/5 380 NEXT 390 POKE HF,B 400 POKE LF,0 410 POKE w,a 420 P=P-H000 430 POKE P,81 440 C0=INT<RND(1)#9>■^2 450 IF C0=PEEKCP-i-54272) OR CD=3 OR CO=5 THEN 440 460 POKE P-^54272,C0 470 GOTO 250 10045 DATA 20,160,5,83,33,122,124,161,165,201 1010 DATA jaS, 240, 246, 279, 287, 318, 328, 358, 368 1020 DATA 397,409,436,450,475,491,515,531 1030 DATA 554,572,593,613.632,654,672,694 1040 DATA 711,735,750,776,789,817,828,856 1050 DATA 4,160,9,882,884,922,924,962,964 1060 DATA 1002,1004,2,160.6,952,954,992.994 1070 DATA 2.102,8,953,953.993,993,1,38,10 1080 DATA 913,913,2,160.7,916,920,996,1000 1090 DATA 3,160,4,918,918.956,960,998,998,1 1100 DATA 83.2,958,956,3,219,14,927,934,967 1110 DATA 974,1007,1014,1,0,5,972.972,-2,-2 1120 DATA -2,36, 12t.. 125,205.51,97, 187,565,51 1130 DATA 97,62,857,51,97,375,305,57,172,250 1140 DATA 716,64,188,18 7,751,64,188,62,842,64 ' " ' , " S) 112 FAMILY COMPUTING HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 1150 DATA 188 1160 DATA 125 1170 DATA 837 1180 DATA 51 , 119(3 DATA 125 1200 DATA 51, 1210 DATA 187 1220 DATA 555 1 230 DATA 64, 1240 DATA 127 1250 DATA 2S0 1260 DATA 76, 1270 DATA 105 12B0 DATA 125 1 290 DATA 673 1300 DATA 57, 1310 DATA 149 1320 DATA 12S 1 330 DATA 805 1340 DATA SI, 1350 DATA 188 i;'60 DATA 375 1370 DATA 731 1380 DATA 48, 1390 DATA 97, I 375, ,285 i, 321,64, ,48,127, 97,250,6 ..,638,51 , 97,3 75,5 ',683,64, i,64 , IBS, 188, 125, ',250,794 Q , 555 ,0,0 ,252, 125, ' , 375 , 830 , 683 , 69 , ,68,149 172,1 25 , 125,837 .,565,64, i,51,9?, 1 ,97,250,7 \ 125,830 ,716,64, ,64,188, 127,250, 250,43,0 ,64, 188 188, 125 375,405 i73,0,0, 97,187, 21,57,1 188,62, 125,760 609,68, 57,172 .,125,73 774,64, ■,76,232 149, 125 125,849 837,76, ,68,149 188,250 B7,716, 74,57, 1 ,64, 188 1 88 , 1 25 125,849 683 , 57 , , 0 , 250 , , 125 ,727 ,57, 125, 449, 72, 1 731 , ,57, 149, ,250 1 ,76 188, ,794 ,68, 252 , , 125 ,857 51,9 72,2 ,62, ,751 ,68. 172, 43,- ,854 ,68, 172, 794, 51,9 25,7 64,1 172, 250, ,760 ,252 125, ,449 ,68, 149, 375, ,203 ,38, 7,12 50 , 5 449, , 57 , 149, 250, 1,-1 ,37, 172 149,375 250,849 38,126 7,62, 830 74,64,188 88,250 1 25 , 438 805,48 ,51,97 ,125,685 521,86 ,76,252 149,375 125,405 727,68 ,64, 188 126,250 5,751 21 ,64 64, 18B 172,125 250 , 203 555 ,51 ,-1,-1 VtC-291 Christmas Tree lid PhiNC LHR*(147( 20 F'GKE 3687 9. a 30 READ B,CH,Ca 40 IF &=-2 THEN 130 50 FOR Z = l TO B 60 READ A,V /0 FDR P=X + 7000 TO 'i'+7000 80 POh^'E P.CH 90 POKE P+30 720, CD L00 NEXT P 110 NEXT I 120 BQTQ 30 1 .'.(:) RESTORE 140 READ X.Y.Z 150 :F Z\-.'-2 then 140 160 POKE 36B78, 15 170 SP=368 76 180 READ S,D,F 190 IF D=-l THEN 130 200 F'QKE SP,S 210 FOR T=l TO D+S0 220 NEXT T ZZtd POKE SP,0 240 PORE 'V.W 250 P==Pf?000 260 POKE P,B1 270 CO=INT (RNDa>*7)+l 280 IF CO=5 OR CO=PEEK(P+30720> THEN 270 290 F'OKE P+30720,CO 300 GOTO 160 10B0 DATA 16,160,5,734,734,755,757,777,779 1010 DATA 798,802,819,925,841,847,862,870 10^-0 DATA 083,893,905,915,926,938,947,961 1030 DATA 969,993,990,1006,1012,1028,1033 1040 DATA 1051,1054,1074,5,160,1,1086,1086 1050 DATA 1.108,1108,1130,1130,1152,1152 1060 DATA 1174,1174,2,160,7,1121,1128,1165 1070 DATA 1172,3,160,6,1124,1124,1143,1150 1080 DATA 1168,1168,1,0,1,1146,1146,2,102 1090 DATA 4,1154,1156,1176,1178,1,88,3,1133 1100 DATA 113;,2, 160,4, 1155, 1155, 1177,1177 1110 DATA 3,160,2,1114,1117,1136,1139,1180 1120 DATA 1183,4,62,5,1116,1116,1138,1138 1130 DATA 1158, 1 161 . 1 182,1182, 1 .83,2, 1160 1140 DATA 1 160,-2,201 , 125, 9<?1 ,215, 187,910 1150 DATA 215,63,1037,215.375,799,219,125 1160 DATA 1004,223,187,958,223,63,1068,223 1170 DATA 375,863,223,125.974,219,125,1062 1180 DATA 223,125,823,225,250,869,212,250 1190 DATA 1055,219,250,1073,215,250,928,0 h£ 1200 DATA 125,1021,201,125,991,215,187,910 1210 DATA 215,63,1037,215,375,799,219,125 1220 DATA 1004,223,187,956,223,63,1066,223 1230 DATA 250,863,223,125,974,219,125,1062 1240 DATA 223,125.323,225,250,869,212,250 1250 DATA 1055,219,250,1073,215,250,928,0 1260 DATA 125,1021,228,125,991,228,125,910 1270 DATA 223,125,1037,231,375,799,228,125 1260 DATA 1004,228, I 25,958,225, 125,1068,225 1290 DATA 375,869,225,125,1055,225,125,1073 1300 DATA 219,125,929,228,375,1021,225,125 1310 DATA 991,225,125,910,223,125,1037,223 1320 DATA 250,799,201.250,1004,215,187,958 1330 DATA 215,63,1068.215,250,863,219,250 1340 DATA 974,223,125,1062,223,63,823,223 1350 DATA 375, 869, 223, 125. 105';,. 219, 125. 1073 i360 DATA 223,123,925,223,250,1021.212,250 1370 DATA 991,219,^50,910,215,250,1037,0 1380 DATA 250,712,-1,-1,-1,-1 IBM PCIChrlstmas Tree 10 DIM MU(4B,2) ,1.1 (19,2) 20 FOR 1=1 TO 48 30 READ nU<I , 1) ,MU(I ,2) 40 NEXT I 50 FOR 1=1 TO 19 60 READ LI (I , 1) ,H (I ,2) 70 NEXT I 80 KEY OFF 90 CLS 100 L=l 110 T=40 120 FOR N:=l TO 18 130 Ai-=SIRINti*(L,219) 140 PRINT TAB( T ) ; A* 150 L=L+2 160 T=T~1 170 NEXT N 130 ftf=BTRlNB* (3,219) 170 FOR B=l TO 5 200 F'RINT TAB (39) ; A* 210 NEXT B 220 LOCATE 21 ,24 230 A*=STRIN6*(5,177) 240 F'RINT A* 250 PRINT TAB<24);A* 260 F'RINT TAB (24) ; A* 270 LOCATE 22,30 280 A*=STRING*(8, 176) 290 PRINT A* 300 LOCATE 23,30 310 PRINT A* 320 LOCATE 21 ,33 330 PRINT CHR*(145) 340 LOCATE 20,44 350 A*=STRING*( 12, 17B) PRINT Af LOCATE 21,44 PRINT A-* LOCATE 22,44 PRINT A* LOCATE 23,44 PRINT A* LOCATE 21,49 COLOR 0,7 CHR*(21) 7,0 360 370 380 390 400 410 420 430 440 450 460 470 480 490 500 510 520 530 540 550 560 PRINT COLOR CT = 1 LM=24 60SUB 10B0 LM--4B GOBUB 1000 LM=24 GQBUB 1000 LOCATE 1,40 F-RINT CHR*(186) SOTO 480 JjvlirN DECEMBER !983 121 COMPLETE WORD PROCESSING (Everything you need for word processing — LIST PRICE M800.00) SALE 5995 00 COMPLETE SMALL BUSINESS SYSTEM (Everything you need to computerize your business — LIST PRICE '2200.00) SALE $ 1195 00 LOOK AT WHAT YOU GET WITH EACH SYSTEM PACKAGEf!! • The powerful 84K Commodore 64 Computer! (More features than Apple II) • 170K Commodore 64 Disk Drive! • Box of 10 "Loran" Disks! • Gemini 10X Starmicronics 10" Carriage Deluxe. 120CPS, Dot Bit Addressable Tractor-Friction Printer! • Deluxe Cardco Printer Interface! ' • Box of Printer Paper! • Your choice of 12" Green Screen or Amber Screen Monitor! The *995 complete word processing system includes: "Script-64 Executive Word Processor Program, 80 columns in color, 20,000 word customizable dictionary, powerful mail merge" — List Price $130) The M195 complete small business system includes: "General Ledger, Accounts Payable and Check Writing, Accounts Receivable, Payroll, Inventory, Database Manager" — List Price $595) 15 DAY FREE TRIAL We give you 15 days to try out these SUPER SYSTEM PACKAGES!! If it doesn't meet your expectations, just send it back to us prepaid and we will refund your purchase price!! 90 DAY IMMEDIATE REPLACEMENT WARRANTY If any of the SUPER SYSTEM PACKAGE equipment or programs fail due to faulty workmanship or material we will replace it IMMEDIATELY at no charge! Add $50.00 for shipping and handling!! • LOWEST PRICES • 15 DAY FREE TRIAL • 90 DAY FREE REPLACEMENT WARRANTY • BEST SERVICE IN U.S.A. • ONE DAY EXPRESS MAIL • OVER 500 PROGRAMS • FREE CATALOGS ] WE DO NOT EXPORT TO OTHER COUNTRIES EXCEPT CANADA. Enclose Cashiers Check, Money Order or Personal Check. Allow 14 days for delivery, 2 to 7 days for phone orders, 1 day express mail! Canada orders must be in U.S. dollars. We accept Visa and MasterCard. We ship CO.D. P|^^pf^pn|2FS I^^E LOVE OUR CUSTOMERS) BOX 550, BARRINGTON, ILLINOIS 60010 Phone 312/382-5244 to order Commodore ■ 64 (80 Columns in Color) I 40 or 80 col limns in color or black and white, turns your computer into a Business Machine' Rated best by COMMODORE, This is the finest word processor available Features include line and paragraph inseftion/deielion. m- dentation, right and left justification, titles, page numbering, characters per inch, etc. All features are easy to use and understand With tabs, etc. SCRIPT-64 even includes a 250 word diclionaryfspelling checker to make sure your spelling is correct The dictionary is user customizable to any technical words you may use. Furthermore, all paragraphs can be printed in writing and everyday letters a snap. To lop things off. there is a 100 page manual and help screens to make learning how to use SCRIPT-64 a snap This word proc- essor Is so complete we cant think of anything it doesn't have When combined with the complete database you have a powerful mailmerge and label program that lets you customize any mailing list with personalized letters. List $99.95. S«l» $79.00. 'Coupon Price I $59.00, (Disk only.) I SCRIPT-64 20.000 WORD DICTIONARY Allows you 10 check spelling on 20.000 most often mispelled words! List 129 95 Sale $19.95. iDisk only,! SCRIPT-64 DATABASE This is a user friendly database that makes any information easy to store and retrieve The user defines the fields and then can add, change, delete and search for any category he wants When combined with the SCRIPT.64 Executive Word Processor you can search out any category (zip codes, hair color, etc ) and print super personalized letters. List $89.00. Sal* $69.00. Coupon Price $46.00. (Disk only.) ■WRITE NOW" WORD PROCESSOR t Finally, a word processor that is easy to use and easy to learn This cartridge system has all the features of professional systems at [only a fraction of the cost. Some features include: margin setting, word wrap, search and replace, centering, page numbering, user defined characters, plus ascii code set thai allows you to use all Ihe features of your prmler. List $49.94. Sals $44.95. "Coupon $39.95. (Cartridge). "WRITE NOW" MAILING LIST 1 600 names, addresses, etc. can be sorted and formulated m any order and by any category (zip code, name, etc ) for merging into the "write now" word processor. Fantastic speed. List S34 95 Sale $24.95, Coupon $14.95. (Disk only.) I TOTAL WORD PROCESSOR PLUS 5.2 This top quality word processor was specially designed for PROTECTO ENTERPRIZES, Features include line and paragraph insert and delete, right and left justification, multiple copies, and line spacing Extra functions include mailmerge. embedded footnotes, extra user defined character sets, plus a complete label program. List $69 90. Sals $56,00, 'Coupon $37,00 Tape; $42.00 Disk. TOTAL TEXT WORD PROCESSOR 2 . 6 This is a complete word processor program which allows you to create and format professional looking documents. Features include: page numbering, margin control, full screen editing and footnotes. Tape — List $44.95. Sale $39.00. 'Coupon $26.00 Disk — List 1 $49.95. Sale $42.00. •Coupon $29.00. QUICK BROWN FOX WORD PROCESSOR Nalionally advertised all purpose word processor that uses menu control to let you manipulate your text. Includes the features most I often asked for including right and left justification, wordwrap, and more. List $69.00. Sale $59.00, •Coupon $40.00. (Cartridge), • LOWEST PRICES • 15 DAY FREETRIAL • 90 DAY FREE REPLACEMENT WARRANTY * BEST SERVICE IN U.S.A. • ONE DAY EXPRESS MAIL • OVER 500 PROGRAMS • FREE CATALOGS WE SHIP C.O.D. HONOR VISA AND MASTER CHARGE ADD $3,00 SHIPPING FOR C.O.D. ADD S2.00 MORE SPECIAL SERVICES: One Day — Express Mail add $10,00 ENTERPRIZES '^^ loveourcustomersi BOX 550, BAHRINGTON, ILLINOIS 60010 Phon« 312/382-5244 to order HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 1000 FOR 1=1 TG LM 1010 SOUND MU(I,1) ,MU(I ,2) 1020 LOCATE LI<CT,1 ) ,LI (CT,2) 1030 CT=CT+1 1040 IF Cf -IV THEN CT=i 1050 IF RND<1)<.2 THEN PRINT CHR*<219) ELSE P RINT CHR*(2) lB(ba NEXT I 1070 RETURN 2000 DATA 293,6,392,6,392,6,392,6,32767,6 2010 DATA 440,6,32767,6,493,6,493,6,493,6 2020 DATA 32767,6,32767,6,493,6,440,6,493,6 2030 DATA 523,6,32767,6,369,6,32767,6,440,6 2040 DATA 32767,6,392,6,32767,6,32767,6 2050 DATA 587,6,587,6,493,6,659,6,32767,6 2060 DATA 32767,6,587,6,587,6,523,6,523,6 2070 DATA 32767,6,32767,6,523,6,523,6,440,6 20B0 DATA 587,6,32767,6,32767,6,523,6,523,6 2090 DATA 473,6,493,6,32767,6,32767,6 2100 DATA 3,40,5,36,5,42,7,42,8,38,9,40,9,34 2110 DATA 10,44,11,38,11,46,12,35,12,49,13,41 2120 DATA 16,35,16,44,16,53,17,34,17,42,17,51 rt-99mAI Christmas Tree 10 CALL CLEAR 20 CALL SCREEN (2) 30 A*="FF00FF00FF00FF00" 40 CALL CHAR (128, A*) 50 READ C5,CHAR,F,e 60 IF CS=-1 THEN 140 70 CALL COLOR(CS,F,B) 80 READ X,Y 90 FOR ROW=X TO V 100 READ COL, REP 110 CALL HCHARCRDW, COL, CHAR, REP) 120 NEXT ROW 130 GOTO 50 J 40 RESTORE 1130 150 READ DUR,FRE,RQW,COL 160 IF DUR=-2 THEN 140 170 CALL SOUND (DUR,FRE,0) 180 C0=INT(RND*l2)+2 190 IF CD=13 THEN 180 200 CALL COLOR (3. CO, 3) 210 CALL HCHARCRDW, COL, 48) 220 GOTO 150 1000 DATA 11,113,3,3,3,19,16,1,15,3,15,3 1010 DATA 14,5,13,7,13,7,12,9,11,11,11 1020 DATA IJ , 10.13,9, 15,9, 15,8,17,7,19 1030 DATA 7,19,6,21,5,23,12,120,11,11,20 1040 DATA 24,16,1,16,1,16,1,16,1,16,1,9 1050 DATA 96,6,6,22,24,6,9,6,9,6,9,5,64 1060 DATA 12,1,21,21,10,1,2,43,12,10,22 1070 DATA 24,10,1,6,9,10,1,8,91,14,16,23 1080 DATA 24,18,3,18,3,4,56,8,1,22,22,19 1090 DATA 1,13,128,9,16,21,24,22,5,22,5 1100 DATA 22,5,22,5,7,80,7,7,21,24,24,1 1110 DATA 22,5,24,1,24,1,10,111,7,1,22 125,294,15,18 1140 DATA 187,392,6,15,63,392,19 1150 DATA 392,12,11,125,440,17,2 1160 DATA ^94,9,13,63,494,18,15, 1170 DATA 16,12,125,494,19,6,125 1180 DATA 25,125,494,7,17,250,52 1190 DATA 250,370,13,20.250,440, 1200 DATA 392,15,23,125,30000,9, 1210 DATA 294,19,10,187,392,13,1 15, 18,375,392,7,17, 125 12, 187,494,6. 15,63,494 1240 DATA 250,494,12,11,125,494, 125,440,9, 13, 125,494, 1 523 ,16,12, 250 , 370 ,19,6 19,25,250,392,7, 17,125 12, 11,125,587, 13,20,1 20, 125,494,15,23,375,6 1120 DATA 1130 DATA 1220 DATA 1230 DATA 1250 DATA 1260 DATA 1270 DATA 1280 DATA 1290 DATA 1300 DATA 125,567,19,10,125,587, , 18,375 ":,187 375,494 ,440,19 3,11,17 10,20,250 13,125 4.63,392 •,440,16 ,19,18 17,22 5,10,250 ,250,440 , 30000 5,587, 10 59 , 1 7 , 8 18,15 1.310 DATA 1320 DATA 1330 DATA 1340 DATA 1350 DATA 1360 DATA 1370 DATA 1380 DATA 1390 DATA 1400 DATA 1410 DATA 1420 DATA 1430 DATA Timex Sinclair 1000 w/ 16K RAM Path/ Christmas Tree 10 DIM A* (25) 20 Dlr-1 &t(2,5; 30 DIM C*(2.3) 40 FOR N=l TO 25 50 LET A4:(N)=CHR* 12B 60 NEXT N 70 LET Bi:(l)=CHR* 1 28+CHR* 1 28+CHRf 136+CHR * 12S+CHR* 128 80 FOR N=l TO 5 90 LET B*(2.N)=CHR*. 136 100 NEXl N 110 LET C*(n=CHR* 128+CHR4 136+CHR* 128 120 LET C*(2>=E*(2. TO 3) A* ( TO I ) Af ( TO 3 ) A* ( TO 5 ) A*( TO 5) A*( TO 7) A* ( TO 9) rtl ( TO 11 ) A*( TO 111 130 PRINT FAB 15; 140 PRINT TAB 14; 150 PRINT TAB 13; 160 PRINT TAB 13: 170 PRINT TAB 12; 180 PRINT TAB 11; 190 PRINT TAB IB; 200 PRINT TAB 10; 210 PRINT TAB 9; A* ( TO 13) 220 PRINT TAB 8;A*( TD 15) 230 PRINT TAB 7!A*( TO 17) 240 PRINT TAB 7sA*< TO 171 250 PRINT TAB 7;A*< TO 17) 260 PRINT TAB 6;A*( TO 19) 270 PRINT TAB 5;A*i TO 21) 280 PRINT TAB 4;A*( TO 23) 290 PRINT TAB 3; A* 300 FOR N=l TO 5 310 PRIN1 TAB 14;Afl TO 3) 320 NEXT N 330 PRINT AT 18 , 4; BJ: ( 1 ) ; AT 19.4;B.T(2) 340 PRINT AT 20 , 4 : Bi^ ( 1 i ; AT 2l.4;B*(l) 350 PRINT hT 18, IBsrft 1 I ; A1 19,10;l.*(1) 360 PRINT AT 20 . l»t C* l2) ; AT 21,10:C?(1) 570 PRINT AT 19 . 1 6: Ci < 1 ) ; A T 20.1B;LM(2) 3B0 PRINT AT 21 . 18;C*( 1 ) :Hr l':',22sA*\ TO 5) 20, ; Bf < 2' ; (W 390 PRINT AT 400 UNPLOT 35,33 410 UNPLOT 27,30 420 UNPLOT 24,23 4:'0 UNPLOT 16, 17 440 PRINT AT 0,15;CHR* 13B 450 UNPLOT 38,29 460 UNPLOT 22, 2B 4 70 UNPLOT 25,28 480 PRINT AT 0,15;CHR.f 131 490 UNPLOT 31 ,28 500 UNPLOT 37, 2& 510 UNPLOT 19,23 520 PRINT AT B,1S5CHR* 136 530 UNPLOV 29,22 540 UNPLOT 39.22 550 UNFLDl 20, 16 560 PRINT AT 0.15;CHR* 131 570 UNPLOT 26.16 580 UNPLOT 34, 17 590 UNPLOT 42, Ic O00 PRINT AT 0,l5:C.HR* 138 ;Af( TO 5) ^ 124 FAMILY COMPUTING TimeUJCRKS Has It All! Very Definitely People-Friendly Software Programs for your Commodore 64 Computer. INMENT PROGRA -~ The Money A Practical "How-To" Learning Approach to Basic Programming. WALL STREET A competitive game of financial speculation based on realistic financial models for 1 -4 players. No special investment knowledge required. Presidential Campaign You fiave been nominated for the office of President of the United States. You must formulate & conduct a nationwide campaign to win the confidence & support of the American voters. If you're looking for more out of your personal computer than shooting at a bunch ofspace bugs, look to TIMEWORKS. Timeworks. masters in the development of "strategy" programs, will challenge your gaming skills to their maximum! You can stay alive if you don't think, but. . .you won't stay alive along! Can you accept our challenge? The Electronic A Check Recording, Sorting and Balancing System. Can be interfaced with THE MONEY MANAGER to transmit actual expense data directly to your Budget Program. Data Manager A General Information Storage and Retrieval System— with Exclusive "X-SEARCH" Feature. EDUCATIONAL An Adventure-In- Learning Game, A Challenging and Enjoyable Way to Develop Algebra Skills. BUSINESS SYSTEMS BUSINESS SYSTEMS Write for the FREE illustrated TIMEWORKS catalog. TIMEWORKS, INC. 405 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield,IL 60015 (312) 291-9200 ASeriesof 7 Manage- ment Information Programs flexibly designed to accom- modate all small & medium size business accounting requirements. Each Timeworks Program is designed to be extremely easy to use by anyone familiar or unfamiliar with computers, or even the principles of accounting. Create your own unlimited array of reports— easily & quickly. YOU select the information you want, and YOU determine the sequence of the Report Column Headings. All the features you need to business effectively and efficiently. Your favorite dealer should be stocking TIMEWORKS programs by now, but if he doesn't have what you want, just let us know, TlfnCUJCR|C5l You Deserve the Best! HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 610 UNPLOT 21.13 620 UNPLOT 29,3(1 630 PLOT 25.28 640 PRINT AT 0,15;CHR* 131 650 PLOT 38,29 660 PLOT 19,23 670 PLOT 29,22 680 PRINT AT 0,15;CHft* 138 690 PLOT 39,22 700 PLOT 31 ,28 710 PLOT 22,26 720 PRINT AT 0,15;CHR* 131 730 PLOT 37,26 740 PLOT 29,36 750 tiD(D 440 TRS-80 Color Computer/Clirfsfmas Tree 10 CLSiB) 20 V=l 30 L=31 40 R=31 50 FOR H=L TO R 60 IF V>23 THEN 130 70 SET<H,V,1) B0 NEXT H 90 V=V+1 100 L=L-1 1 10 R=R+1 120 60T0 50 130 READ U,D,L,R,C0 140 IF U=-2 THEN 220 150 V-U 160 FOR H=L TO R 170 SETCH,V,CO) 1B0 NEXT H 190 V=V+1 200 IF V>D THEN 130 23 0 GOTO 160 220 RESTORE 230 READ DUM 240 IF DUMO-1 THEN 230 250 Ca=RND(7)+l 260 IF 00=1 THEN 250 270 READ N,D,H,V 280 IF H=-l THEN 220 290 SET(H,V,CQ) 300 SOUND N,D/16 310 BOTD 250 1000 DATA 24,31,30,32,2,26,31,11,17,8,29,29 1010 DATA 11,17,4,27,31,15,15,4,27,31,22,27 1020 DATA 6,27,31,24,24,7,29,29,22,27,7,29 1030 DATA 29, 24, 24, 3, 27;31, 37, 51, 4, 29, 29 1040 DATA 37,51,1,27,31,46,46,3,29,29,46 1050 DATA 46,8,-2,-2,-2,-2,-2,-1 1060 DATA 108,125,32,4,147,187,43,19,147 1070 DATA 63,22,15,147,375,48,22,159,125 1060 DATA 19,19,170,187,36,9,170,63,24 1090 DATA 22,170,375,38,16,170,125,28,7 110B DATA 1E«, 125, 31 ,13,170,125,31,19,176 1H0 DATA 250,36,22,140,250,25,10,159,230 1120 DATA 12.22,147,250,39,12,255,125,32 1130 DATA 4,108,125,43,19,147,187,22,15,147 1140 DATA 63,48,22,147,375,19,19,159,125,36 1150 DATA 9,170,187,24,22,170,63,38,16,170 1160 DATA 250,28,7,170,125,31,13,159,125,31 1170 DATA 19.170,125,36,22,176,250,25,10,140 1160 DATA 250,12,22,159,250,39,12,147,250,25 1190 DATA 10,255,125,12,22,185,125,39,12 1200 DATA 185,125,32,4,170,125,43,19,193 1210 DATA 375,22,15,185,125,48,22,185,125 1220 DATA 19,19,176,125,36,9,176,375,24,22 1230 DATA 176,125,38,16,176,125,28,7,159,123 1240 DATA 31,13,185,375,31,19,176,125,36,22 1250 DATA 176,125,32,4,170,125,43,19,170,250 1260 DATA 22,15,108,250,48,22,147,187,19,19 1270 DATA 147,63,36,9,147,250,24,22,159,250 1280 DATA 38,16,170,126,28,7,170,63,31,13 1290 DATA 170,375,31,19,170,125,36,22,159 1300 DATA 125,25,10,170,125,12,22,176,250 1310 DATA 39,12,140,250,32,4,159,250,43,19 1320 DATA 147,250,22,15,255,250,31,1 1330 DATA -1,-1,-1,-1 TRS-80 Models I & miehrtstmas Tree 10 CLB 20 X=l 30 Xl=63 40 ;<2=63 50 Y=2 60 FOR Z=X1 TO X2 70 BET(Z,Y) 80 NEXT Z 90 X=X+1 100 X1=X1-1 110 X2=X2+1 120 Y=Y+1 130 IF X039 THEN 60 140 READ X1,X2,Y1,Y2 150 IF Xl=-1 THEN 210 160 FOR 7=X1 TO X2 170 BET (Z, YD 180 NEXT 1 190 Y1=Y1+1 200 IF Y1>Y2 THEN 140 ELSE 160 210 READ X1,X2,Y 220 IF Xl=-1 THEN 270 230 FOR Z=X1 TO X2 240 RESET ( 2, y) 250 NEXT Z 260 GOTO 210 270 READ X1,X2,Y 280 IF Xl=-1 THEN 340 290 FOR Z=X 1 TO X2 300 RESET (Z,V) 310 NEXT Z 320 Y=Y+1 330 IF Y<=47 THEN 290 ELSE 270 340 SET (53, 42) 350 SET (54,43) 360 READ X,Y 370 IF X=-l THEN 420 380 IF PQINT<X,Y) THEN RESET (X,Y) Y) 390 FOR T=l TO 250 400 NEXT T 410 SOTO 360 420 RESTORE 430 READ DUM 440 IF DUM=-2 THEN 360 ELSE 430 100E) DATA 32,47,41,47.50,57,43,47 IBIB DATA 47,69,95,42,47,-1,-1,-1 1020 DATA 44,69,95,45,-1,-1.-1,39 1030 DATA 87.42,-1,-1,-2,61,7,81, 1040 DATA 58,20,63,14,87,29,51,37 1050 DATA 24,51,17.71,12,33,34,58 1060 DATA 80,27,79,20,66,9,56,11 1070 DATA 36,42,32,40,29,69,24,73 1080 DATA 63,29,82,33,98,38,66,9, 1090 DATA 7,81,38,74,31,59,20,63, 1100 DATA 51,37,94,35,45,24,51,17 1110 DATA 34,58,35,30,37,80,27,79 1120 DATA 56,11,71,36,42,36,48,32 1130 DATA 24,73.17,53,27,63,29,82 1140 DATA 66,9,87,29,63,2,-1,-1 ELSE SET(X, , 60 , 66 , 39 ,-1,32,47 ,40,41 ,S6 38,74,31 ,94,35,45 , 35 , 30 , 37 71,36,48 ,17,53,27 87,29,61 14,87,29 ,71,12,33 ,20,66,9 ,40,29,69 ,33,98,38 AirCHTIOM PROGRAMMERSI FA_MiLy eoMb-miiSG wants to publish your best original computer programs. We prefer programs under 100 fines, especially games or those that have useful applicaUons In the home. Send a disk or tape containing tiL'o copies t^ your program plus a listing Ipreferably a printout J to The Programmer, familv compotinc. 730 Broddujay. New York. NY 10003. In- clude your name, age, address, day and night phone numbers, com- puter model, program titles with brief descriptions, and the letKt of BASIC and memory required. We will pay SSOfor those we publish. If you want your disk or tape relumed, enclose a stamped, self-ad- dressed maiier. family coMi'UTiNO cannot assume responslb(J(ty/or the loss oj or damage to any unsolicited mgt^ials. 126 FAMILY COMPUTING ;:'.:'-itf^5i,:: f**«V INTRODUCING SARGON III. THE FIRST CHESS GAME THAT'S TOUGH ENOUGH FOR BORIS AND EASY ENOUGH FOR BOBBIE. Sargon IIT frnm H-3^;rl<-r c^c. ■-" Tt's the ultimate h s y i. play each other while it monitors moves lor consis- tency with mles of play. You can also query Sargon for move suiisestions. If you're playing alone, you can ask Sargon for alternate moves after it makes its best move. Sargon III provides the most complete and inior- mative user manual, making it easier for the novice to learn. It includes diagrams from the U.S. Chess Federation, suggestions for better play, and descrip- tions of 107 great games of history. Sargon III runson Apple II, II + , He, the IBM Personal Computer and other popular compatibles. So visit vour local retailer and ask for Sargon III by name. Or call 1-800-343-1218 (In MA 617-937-0200). Hayden Software, 600 Suffolk St., Lowell, MA 01853. It's simply the best move you can make. SaiKoi) HI is a ix-jilMLTud tiadi.ni;iik ol Hayden Solnviii-c. Appifisii ivyiili.-ro<.l ir;idi:m;irk ul Apple Compulcr, Inc. IBM is :i ifgiMciod lr;idL-m;irk ul Iinernaiional Business Maeliine Corp. SAROOnill HAYDEN SOFTWARE 1 -:jr^ HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 6- WRAPPING PAPER BY JOEY LATIMER Do you often find yourself still wrapping gifts on Christmas morning? And right when the doorbell rings, announcing the ar- rival of all your gift-laden relatives, does your wrap- ping paper supply run out? Do you then run around the house in a state of panic searching for a quick substitute? Well, if you have a computer and a printer, search no more. Type in this personalized wrapping paper program for a Christmas tree de- sign. You won't even have Appiel Wrapping Paper 100 HOME "THIS PRDGRflM PRINTS" "HOLIDAY WRAPPING PAPER to write a card! When you run the program, the com- puter will ask you for the name of the giver and the name of the recipient and will print this information on the wrapping paper. You can easily modify the program to create your own picture by changing the design in the data statements: no other changes are necessary if your design fits into seven short DATA statements tike ours. Afterward, you might want to color the pa- per in with crayons. 'PLEASE PRESS <RETURN> AFTER EACH R 160 170 1B0 190 200 210 220 230 240 300 310 350 360 370 400 420 450 FROM 460 PRINT 470 GOTO 480 PR# 0 2000 DATA "WHO FR* "WHO FD* IS THE PRESENT FROM" IS THE PRESENT FOR" 1 10 PRINT 120 PRINT 130 PRINT 140 PRINT EPLY. " 150 PRINT PRINT INPUT PRINT INPUT HOME PRINT PR I NT GET nt IF R* = "" THEN FOR A = ! TO 8 READ T*(Aj NEXT A PR# 1 FDR P = 1 TO 8 PRINT T*-(P)T*(P)T*(P)T*(P>T«(P)T*<P) NEXT P PRINT TAB (21) "TO FR:r 'WHEN YOUR "PRESS ANY PRINTER IS READY," KEY TO START PRINTING. 230 F0$ HAPPY HOLIDAYS ■•70 2010 2020 2030 2040 2050 2060 2070 DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA DATA ■»- *0»»#*»D* ****0**»*** I 'PLEASE PRESS < RETURN > AFTER EACH R Aiaril Wrapping Paper 10 DIM T*(117) 20 DIM FR*a5> 30 DIM F0*(15) 40 DIM THP*<1S) 100 PRINT CNR* (1251 110 PRINT "THIS PROGRAM PRINTS" 120 PRINT "HOLIDAY WRAPPING PAPER 130 PRINT 140 PRINT EPLY." 150 PRINT 160 PRINT "WHO IS THE PRESENT FROM"; 170 INPUT FR* 180 PRINT "WHO IS THE PRESENT FOR"; 190 INPUT FO* 200 PRINT CHR*{125) 210 PRINT "WHEN YOUR PRINTER IS READY," 220 PRINT "PRESS ANY KEY TO START PRINTING. 250 OF'EN tt 1,4,0, '"K" 260 GET #1 ,A 270 PRINT "TO STOP PRINTING," 2B0 PRINT "PRESS THE SYSTEM RESET KEY. " 300 FOR A=l TO a 310 READ TMP* 320 TMP*=TMP*(2,14) 330 T* ( 1 3*A-1 1 , 1 3*A+ 1 ) =TMP* 350 NEXT A 360 OPEN #7,8,0, "Pi " 370 FOR P=l TO 8 380 L=13*P-11 390 R=13»P+1 400 PRINT #78T*(L,R) T*(L,R) ;T*(L,R> 420 NEXT P 450 PRINT #7;CHR*(9);CHR*(9> ;CHR*(9); "TO *; " HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM " j FRS 460 PRINT #7 470 GOTO 370 2000 DATA 2010 DATA 202B DATA 2030 DATA 2040 DATA 2050 DATA 2068 DATA 2070 DATA ;T*(L,R) ;T*(L,R) ;T*(L,R) ; ;FO + **# *0**# *»**0*» *o*****o# I 128 FAMILY COMPUTtNC I IVs still around if you know where to look. We are Kangaroo™ Inc., dedicated to just plain fun for kids 3 to 8 years old. Jeepers Creatures^" - 30 basic animals with interchangeable heads, torsos, and legs or tails. Create an owligator or an octo- catfish or one of over 26,000 funny colorful combinations in this goofy collection of mixed up animais. My House-My Home^" - Let's move into the house on Some- where Street. It's ready for fur- nishing and family. Oops, you put the kitchen sink in the bedroom and Aunt Nellie's bed in the kitchen. That's silly. Jeepers Creatures and My House-My Home have no win- ners or losers, no right or wrong answers, no high scores to beat, just hundreds of hours of crea- tive play. Give your child's imagination a boost with Kangaroo games designed for Apple and Atari computers. CkANqAROO TM Jeepers Creatures and My House-My Home are each available for $34.95 at your software dealer or from Kangaroo, Inc., 332 South Michigan Ave. Suite 700, Chicago, IL 60604, (312) 987-9050. Visa, MasterCard and personal checks accepted. For a pocket full of fun. fe1983 Kangaroo Inc. What to jdst (0 JBf i 'Apple Is a registered rrademark of Appl^ompulers. Inc. Atari is a registered trademark of Atari, mc. Grapfitcs created witti Pengul^oftware's Graphics Magic You know Scholastic. We've been mak' ing learning fun for over 60 years. Now this leading name in educational puty- lishing takes the lead in computer educa- tion. Now we make Wizware ", a new line of microcomputer software. ^ ScholasticWbfMmv '"^mfs /n 60 years we've learned a lot about devel- oping kids ' reasoning and math skills. We've put this know-how into Square Pairs,'" a game in which children 5 to 8 match words, numbers and patterns. With Turtle Tracks!" youngsters 9 and up have endless hours of fun creating colorful computer graphics, while learning reason- ing skills and the principles of programming. Microzine'"* is an innovation in computer education — a programmed magazine that kids read, "talk" to and help write. It stim- ulates creativity in children 10 and up. There's nothing like a learning party to get kids excited about education. That's the idea behind Electronic Party,'" a maze game in which children 5 to 8 also create original computer graphics. Scholastic Wizware'" is compatible with Apple,"' Atarif TI-99/4A, VIC-20f Commo- dore 64,* and IBM^PC. ^^Scholastic Wizware 'Graphics CfBaled with Penguin Software's Graphics Magic/an. Apple is a registered trademark of Appte Computer. Inc. Atariisa registered fraderrmrk of Atari Division. Warner iDamniur}icatkxis, hc- ViC-20 and 64 are registered trademarks of chmmodofe E/ectrof}ics Lid. IBM is a registered trademark of iatetnationai Business Mactiines Corp. ll.99laAl Wrapping Paper 100 CALL CLEAR PRINT PRINT PRINT PRINT 1 10 120 130 140 EPLY. '• 150 PRINT PRINT INPUT PRINT INPUT CALL 'THIS PROGRAM PRINTS" 'HOLIDAY WRAPPING PAPER. "PLEASE PRESS <ENTER> AFTER EACH R 160 170 180 190 200 210 220 230 240 250 270 Y. " 280 300 310 350 370 400 <P) 410 420 450 DAYS "WHO FR* "WHO FD* CLEAR IS THE PRESENT FROM"; IS THE PRESENT FOR" PRINT -'WHEN YOUR PRINTER IS READY," PRINT "PRESS ANY KEY TO START PRINTING." CALL KEY (0, KEY, STATUS) IF STATUS=0 THEN 230 CALL CLEAR PRINT "TO STOP PRINTING, HOLD DOWN ANY KE OPEN «1: "PIO" FOR A=l TO 8 READ Ti:(A) NEXT A FOR P=l TO 8 PRINT #1:T*(P) ;T*(P>;T*CP) 5T*(P) ; T*(P) ;T* GOSUB 1000 NEXT P PRINT #1:TAB{21) ; "TO ";F0*;' FROM "iFR* HAPPY HOLI 460 PRINT 470 GOTO 1000 CALL #1: ::70 KEY (0, KEY, STATUS) 1010 IF STATUS=0 THEN 1030 1020 STOP 1030 RETURN 2000 DATA " + 2010 DATA " *** 2020 DATA " *0#*» " 2030 DATA " ♦***0** " 2040 DATA " *0#*»«*0* " 2050 DATA " ♦*#»0***»** " 2060 DATA " I 2070 DATA " " Timex Sinclpir 10001 Wrapping Paper 10 Ijlt'i 20 LET 30 LET 40 LET 50 Lt.T 60 LlT 70 LLl BB LET V0 Lt/I 110 PRINT 120 PRINT 130 PRINT 140 PRINT REPLY . " 150 PRINT 160 PRINT 170 INPUT 180 PRINT 190 INPUT i * i.t). IJ r«<l;=" ■t*(2>-" T*<3;==" 15(4)--" »0»*» I 1*(7)= T^rco*--' "THIS PROGRAM PRINTS" "HOLIDAY WRAPPING PAPER. "PLEASE PRESS < ENTER >" ■AFTER EACH "WHO F* "WHO R* IS THE PRESENT FROM?" IS THE PRESENT FOR?" 200 CLS 210 PRINT "WHEN YOUR PRINTER IS READY," 220 PRINT "PRESS ANY KEY TO START F'RINTING." 270 PRINT , "TO STOP, PRESS AND HDLD","T HE <S> KEY. " 280 IF 1NKEY*="" THEN GOTO 2B0 370 FOR P-1 TO 8 400 LPRINT T*(P)sT*(P) ;Tif (P) sT*(P) ;T*<P) ;T*C P) 410 IF INKEY*="S" THEN STOP 420 NEXT P 450 LPRINT TAB 21; "TO ";R*!" HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM "?F* 460 LPRINT 470 SOTO 370 TRS-80S & IBM PCIWrappIng Paper 100 CLS 110 PRINT"THIS PROGRAM PRINTS" 120 PR I NT "HOLI DAY WRAPPING PAPER" 130 PRINT 140 PRINT"PLEASE PRESS <ENTER> AFTER EACH REP LY. " 150 PRINT 160 PRINT"WHD IS THE PRESENT FROM?" 170 INPUT FRS 180 PRINT"WHO IS THE PRESENT FOR?" 190 INPUT F03: 200 CLS ING. 210 PRINT"WHEN YOUR F'RINTER IS READY," 220 PR I NT "PRESS ANY KEY TO START PRINT 230 R*=INKEY* 240 IF R* = "" THEN 230 300 FOR A = 1 TO 8 310 READ T* (A) 350 NEXT A 370 FOR P = 1 TO 8 400 LPRINT T*(P) ;T*(P) ;T*!P> ;T*(P) ;T*(P) ;T*(P FO* " HAPPY HOLIDAYS ) 420 NEXT 450 LPRINT TAB (21) "TO FROM " FR* 460 LPRINT 470 GOTO 370 2000 DATA" + 2010 DATA" *** 2020 DATA" *a*** " 2030 DATA" »*-»»0*# " 2040 DATA" ■»0«****0* 2050 DATA" **#*0****** " 2060 DATA" I 2070 DATA" Note: If you have a TRS-80 Color Computer, substitute PRlnfr *-2 for lpkint in lines 400. 450. and 460. TIPS TO THE TYPIST 1 . When you type program lines into your computer, be sure to copj' them ex- actly as written. Numbers, punctuation marks, and spaces are verj' important! 2. Remember to press RE- TURN or ENTER after ev- ery completed program line, 3. Run the program when you finish typing it in by typing RUN and pressing the RETURN or ENTER key. If the computer gives you an error message, don't panic. Mistakes can be fixed. List the program by typing the word ljst and pressing the RETURN or ENTER key and double- check each line. A foolproof way to correct a mistake is to type in the entire line again (including its line number). When you list the program again, you should find the new line In place of the old, 4. If you need more help, read the programming guide written for your com- puter. It will answer ques- tions that can't possibly be covered here. 5. When all else fails , . . turn off the computer and relax. e£l 132 FAMILY COMPUTING t AARDVARK /4€t€04t So^tiMifte PRESENTS. . . JOUT QUESTION, ABSOLUTELY — IJCADE STYLE GAME AVAILABLE, THAT WE KNOW OF. DUNGEONS OF DEATH. . .A serious 0 & D type game for you up to 6 players at a lime. You get a choice of race and character, on screen mapping otl^e maze, ac' 10 grow from game to game, and a 15 page ma?lL Requires extended basic on TRS-80C- IVVAILABLE ON: TRS-SDC(ISK). CMD M. V]C20(13K), rRS-80C 32K DISC STOCK llTDOl TAPE: S19.9S DISK: t24.95 . .ST AND FURIOUS. You become the wizard fighting off the thunderbolts of an angry Zeus. Multiple action. Are you good enough to keep up as the difficulty increases wave after wave. Hours of challenging fun. This is one game you may never completely master. AVAILABLE ON: TRS-B0C(16K), CMD 64. VIC 20(13K) SIPCK #1007 TAPE:$24.9S DISK: $29.95 m\ PYRAMID... Our toughest and mosl inlnguoing adveniure. Average time though th( 50-70 hoyrs, Ciues everywhere and some very ingenious problems This one is popular around the world. AVAILABLE ON: TRS-80C (16K) CMD 64 VtC 20 (13K] TtMEX/SINCLAIR TI/99-4A STOCK 45002 TAPE: St9.9S DISK S24.9S AARDVARK /4ctMK So^UiMUne IS AVAILABLE AT SOFTWARE RETAILERS EVERYWHERE IF YOUR LOCAL COfWIPUTER OR SOFTWARE STORE DOES NOT CARRY IT — ASK THEM WHY NOT. SEND ONE DOLLAR FOR ILLUSTRATED CATALOG, DEALER INQUIRES INVITED A (fifferent kind of adventure Played on a computerger^eratedmapot Alesia, Youleadasmall ' band of exployers on a mission to conquer tfre Citadel ot f^oorlock. Takes 3-5 hours to play and is compfetely different each time. AVAILABLE ON: TRS-B0C(16K) CMD S4 ' VIC Z0(13K) TIMEX/SINCLAIR Ti99/4A, EXTENDED BASIC REQUIRED ON Tl STOCK* 7007 TAPE:J19.9S OtSK: J24.95 Quest is also available on TRS-SOCas a 32K extra memory, extra fun advenlurB. It's a little more diKleull, and will test tlie most experienced explorer of the kingdom. STOCK WIIOS TAPE: $24.95 DISK: $29.95 HOURS OF FUN AND ENJOYMENT FROM THE ' ADVENTURE PLACE" TO ORDER: SEND AMOUNT INDICATED PLUS $2.00 SHIPPING, PER ORDER. INCLUDE STOCK NUMBER, QUANTITY DESIRED AND YOUR PREFERENCE OF TAPE OR DISK. BE SURE TO INDICATE TYPE OF SYSTEM, AMOUNT OF MEMORY, ETC. WHEN USING CHARGE CARD TO ORDER BY MAIL, BE SURE TO INCLUDE EXPIRATION DATE. CHARGE CARDS WELCOME 1 -800-624-4327 PHONE ORDERS ACCEPTED 8:00 A.M. TO 8:00 P.M. E.S.T. MON-FRI AARDVARK f4etam So^t4^€tne 2352 S. COMMERCE RD. WALLED LAKE, Ml 48088 313/669-3110 HOLIDAY PROGRAMS CHORE ASSIGNER BY JOEY LATIMER "What d'ya mea-a-a-n I have to wash the dishes? But Mom. that's not fair!" Is this a familiar cry every time you assign a task to one of your kids? Then Chore Assigner is just the program for you! Let your computer dele- gate responsibilities, with a random name selection. Not only will your comput- er remain impervious to the anguished cries after- wards, but it will make the task assignment process seem like fun! Watch your children hold their breath as their names flash on and off the screen while the computer decides. To use Chore Assigner, type in a task and the names of all the possible candidates. After the com- puter selects a person, his or her name will disappear from the list, and the rest of the names will be available for a new chore. Or you can start all over Apple/Cliere Assigner 4Ci hurit 3i} PRINT 60 PRINT 70 PRINT again, with a different group of people. This pro- gram is Ideal for the end- less variety of chores that arise at holiday time. 'THE CHORE A5SI6NER" 'TYFE THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE AVAILABLE S0 PRINT "FOR DOINS CHORES; THEN PRESS vRETUP N .-- . " 9a It i{ 1 J- 13 150 lofl 17a ISH 190 210 S20 230 (NPur p B = P Dll-1 N**P) HOME PRINT FRim FOR N TVPE THE NAMES PRESS <RErUftN-. 1 ro P , fiNE AT A TIME. "' AFTER EACH NAME. INPUT Hi<H) NEXT N HOME PRINT "TrFf^ A CHORE THAT NEEDij TO BE DONE 240 250 260 270 280 290 310 320 330 340 350 360 370 380 .390 400 410 420 PRINT "THEN PRESS .:R'eTLIRN>. " INPUT CH* HOME PRESS (PETURN:. AND THE" COMPUTER WILL rICK A PERSON" AT RANDOM lO CuMRLE fE THE CHORE. CHRil a::,- THEN .1.10 PRINT ■ PR I NT ' PRINT ' SET R* IF R* HOME PRINT ■THINKING " FOR T = 1 TO 600 NEXT T FOR A = 1 TO -tNi iRNLmI) R = INI ■.PNDU; * Fl +1 IP N*(R) = '•' THEN 450 HOME PRINT PRINT FAEUiB) N*(R) * 150) + 50 430 FOR T = 1 TO 40 440 NEXT i 450 NEXT f. 460 IF N4:iR) = "" THEN 370 470 HOME 480 PRINT N*\R)!" HAS BEfc.N PICKED TO" 490 FRINI CH* 500 N*(R) = "" 510 PR I H r 520 B = Et-1 530 FOR X - 1 TO P 540 IF N*(X) = "" THEN 560 550 PRINT N*CX) 560 NEXT X 570 IF B = 1 THEN 690 580 PRINT "ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR CHORES 590 PRINT 600 PRINT "DO YOU WANT ID" 610 PRINT "D ASSIGN A NEW CHORE" fe20 PRINT "2) QUIT" 630 PRINT 640 PRINT "TfPE A NUMBER:" 650 PRINT "THEN PRESS <RETURN>." 660 INPUT N 670 QN N BOTO 220,700 690 PRINT "LUCKED OUT 1 " 700 END Atari/ Cliore Assigner la bIM CH*<40i 20 D I M NA* ( 1 0 :■ 40 PRINT L'HR*(i:;"=i) ■-..0 PRINT "THE CHORL ASSIGNER" '-<0 PRINT 70 PRINT "TYPE THE MIJMBER Of- PROPL f- AVAN ARI.J.- 80 P N>. " 90 1 100 ) 10 120 130 140 150 160 170 1S0 190 200 210 220 230 240 250 260 270 280 300 310 320 330 340 350 360 370 380 390 400 410 4 20 430 440 450 460 ONE AT A TIME. ' AFTER EACH NAME. RINT "FOR DOING CHOREB; THEN PRE3B -RLTUR NPUT P B = -F' DIM Nf(10*P) FDR I-^l TO 10+p NEXT I PRINT CHR*<125) PRINT "TYPE THE NAMES. PRINT "PRESS -RETURN.; FOR N=l TO P INPUT NAf N$ < 1 0»N-9 < 1 0*N .1 =N Af NEXT N PRINT CHRt<175) PRINT "TYPE A CHOKE THAT NEEDS TO BE DONE PRINT "THEN PRESS RETURN,;." INPUT CH* PRINT CHRf(i::S) PRINT "PRF;SS <RETt,JRN:-- AND THK" PRINT "COMF-UTER WILL PICK A PERSON" F-'RIHT "AT RANDOM TO COMPLFITF THE CHORE." OF'EN ttJ ,4,0, "K" GET HI ,A CLOSE #1 PRINT CHR*<t2'5i PRINT "THINKING " FDR T=l TO 600 NEXT T FOR X-1 TO INT(RND(0) *100)+50 R:-INT<RND(0)*F)-s-l IP MS <• ! 0*R-9 , 1 0*R-9 ) t, " " THEN 450 CHR*(125> PRINT PRINT PR I NT FOR T-^a TO 40 NEXT T NEXT X IF N*(I0«R-9, 10+R-9I ^ ;(J-f UP>*R-9, ia»R) THPri 7,7 B 1 34 FAMILY COMI'IITING CDfTim * DflTfi cnmpuTER HDUSE, inc. EXCITING NEW CONCEPTS IN EDUCATION • Toddler Tutor* • Primary Math Tutor* • Math Tutor* • English Invaders Games* • Sketch & Paint* ARCADE STYLE GAMES • Supercuda* • Pegasus Odyssey* • Ape Craze* • Escape MCP* • Maelstrom* • Firing Line* • Pakacuda* • Centropods* HOME UTILITIES • Basic Tools! • Multi-Level Marketing Manager (Direct Selling) t • Cash Managert Serving the Needs of Commodore Computers for Four Years. Call for the Dealer or Distributor Nearest to You. t Commodore 64' vVIC 20' •Both i: campuTER HDUSE, mc. 320 Summit Avenue Milford, Michigan 48042 (313) 685-0113 Arcade Style Games are High Res Full Machine Code. Commodore 64 and VIC 20 are Registered Trademarks of Commodore Business Machines, Inc. HOLIDAY PROGRAMS 47B PRINT CHR*<125) 480 0" 490 PRINT N*( 10*R-9, 10#R) ; " HAS BEEN PICK PRINI CHJ 500 N*fl0*R-9,10*R-9>=" " 510 PR I NT 520 B=B-1 £.3-0 FOR X=I TO P 540 IF N*(10*X-9, 10*X-9>=" " THEN 560 550 PRir'4T Nf(lB*X-9, 10*X) 560 NEXT X 570 IF B=l THEN 690 580 PRINT "ARE STILL AVAILABLE; FOR CHORES 590 PRINT 600 PRINT "PC VOU WANT TO" 610 PRINT "1) ASSIGN A NEW CHORE" 620 PRINT "2) QUIT" 630 PRINT 640 PRINT "TYPE A NUMBERj " 650 PRINT "THEN PRESS < RETURN;." 660 INPUT N 670 ON N BDTD 220,700 690 PRINT "LUCKED OUT!" 700 END Commodore 64 & VIC<20/CAore Assignor 4u- 50 £.0 70 B0 (M> 9B iiz;!?i 110 IbtJ 160 170 180 190 210 220 230 PRINT PRINT PRINT PRINT PRINT LHK*(i4/j "THE CHORE ■ IVPE THE r 'FUI-' DOINb ASSiQjNER" iQ. OF PEOPLE CHORES: THEN AVAILHBLt " PREBS <RETUR INPUT F B=P i) I M n% y !■-■ } PRINT CHh*(14.') PRINT "TYPE THE NAMES. PRINT " PRESS iRETURN;: FOR N=l TO P INPUT N*<N* NEXr N PRINT CHft$(14yi TAB';4; "TYPE hND CiJNi-'L PRINT BE DUNE: : " Z40 PRINT ■THEN PREBS iRETURN; 250 iivlPUT 260 PRINT 270 PRINT 28(3 PRINT 290 F-RINI "fVf KrtNuuH . TO 310 LJET R* 320 IF R*<.. :^CHH* a ;■■ > then .r-.ui 330 PRINI 340 FRINl " 350 FOR T-l, ,3t.0 NEXT T FOR >■-•=] TO I;-JI iRMD <1 >*i50) -^r.'e R=iIi'Jl '. Ki-U.. ', \ ! *P) +1 IF N*iRJ="" THEN 450 PRINT CHR*1147. PR I NT PRINT TAB'-e) N-lkR( FOR T=l TO 40 NEXT T NEXT X IF N*^R)="" THEN 370 PRINT CHR*a47) ONE Hi A TIME. " AFTER EACH NAME. A LHORt THhT Nf_EDS TO 370 3B0 390 400 4 10 420 43 « 440 '1S0 4o0 4 70 4B0 490 500 510 520 530 540 >5W ;60 570 '■THEN PREB CH* CHR* i 14;-; "PRESS .RETURN " COHPUTPP; MIL I ^CHH* I 1 3 > CHR*(I47( " iHlNKlNfi i 0 600 THE" A PERSiJN. ": ETE THf: r.HORF PRINT NfCR? ; PRINT CH* PRINT ■fci=B-l FOR X=l iO F IF N*(X)="" F-RINf N*(A) NEXT X IF B= 1 THEN HAS BEEN PICKED IO" I HEI-J '.biB "ARE SI ILL AVAILf^DLE. "DO VOU WANT TO" "1) ASSIGN H MEW CHDR ".:■■ QUIT" "1 YPE A NUHBER: " "THEN F'RESS ^RE^URN;^. N 580 PRINT 590 PRINT fMH l-'I'i I N i' 610 PRINT 620 PRINT o30 PRU-il 640 PRINI 6S0 PRINT 660 INPUT 670 ON N GOTO 220.700 690 PRINT "LUCKED OUT! 700 END TI-99/4A/Cfcore Assigner 30 randomi;:e 40 call clear 50 print "the chore assigner" 60 PRINT 70 PRINT "TYPE THE NUMBER OF F'EOPLE": LE FOR DOING CHORES;" 80 PRINT "THEN PRESP <ENTER:- . " 90 INPUT P 100 B=:P 110 DIM N*{20) 140 CALL CLEAR 150 PRINT "TYF---E THE NAMEE , ONE AT A": RESS '-CENTER > AFTER" 160 PRINT "EACH NAME." FOR N=l TO P INPUT N*(Ni NEXT Fi GALL CLLrtR PRINT "TYPE A CHURE I HAT NEEDS TO PRINT "BE DONE; THEN PRESS CENTER INF-UT CH-t CALL i::lear PRINT "PRESS -VENTER PRINT "COMPUTER WIL PRINT "AT RANDOM TO Ou INPUT R* CALL CLEAR PRINT "THINKINin. . . 1 . " FOR T^- 1 TO 2P0 ITEX'" T F' OR X --= 1 f 0 INT '■ 1 B>-RND ) + R^-INT (P«RND) +1 'hMhILAB TIME. 170 IBB 210 2::P' 230 240 250 260 230 290 310 330 340 350 360 370 3S0 390 400 ■•? 1 0 430 440 450 460 4 70 480 490 500 510 520 530 540 550 560 570 5B0 590 600 610 620 630 640 650 660 670 690 700 AND THE" F-ftk 1^ PERSON" u 1 HE CHIJRE . ■• m ;N*(R; IF N-J (R)="" THEN '*50 CALL CLEAR PRINT PRINT " FOR T==] TO 55? NEXT T NEXT X IF N*:(R)~"" THEM 370 CALL CLEAR PRINT N*<R);" HAS BEEN FICKED TO PRINT N *■ ( B ^ PR I NT e^;^P"l FOR X--' CH* 1 TO P IF N*(X.'="" PRINT N-xrA) NEXT X IF B ---■:( THEN THEN S60 690 PRINT PRINT PRINT PRINT PRIWT PRINT PRINT PRINT INPUT ON N PRINT END "ARE STILL AVAILABLE," "DO YOU WANT TO" "]) ASSIGN ANOTHER CHORE" "2> QUIT" " T YPE "THEN N BOTO 220, A NUMBER; " PRESS < enter: ^00 "LUCKED OUT! ES