ReadCIS documentation is designed to be read in Psion Data. Press <Enter> to see each topic. Some topics are longer than one screen, use <PgDn> to view all the text. Press <Psion-H> to toggle field labels, and <Psion-S> to find text in one field, faster %
than searching the entire document.
To read this file with a word processor, press <Psion-A> and "Save as Text" with "Newline" delimiter. The file is too large to open in Psion Word, although you can use a text viewer.
ReadCIS
ReadCIS is an offline reader to automate CompuServe access from the Psion Series 3a pocket computer. ThreeCIS is the script that performs the online work. ReadCIS is a different type of program than CompuServe's Information Manager (TM). All reading and
writing is done offline; the user does not press any keys while the script is running. This means the user must decide before starting the script what is to be accomplished during each online session.
ThreeCIS SCRIPT
Automatic online operations...
1. Dials and logs on through direct CompuServe nodes worldwide; through Infonet, Scitor, and Sprintnet international networks; through Datex-J and Datex-P in Germany, Fenics I in Japan, GNS Dialplus and Mercury in the UK, Israkav in Israel, Pos-Serve i;
n South Korea; Telepac in Switzerland; Transpac in France.
2. Receives CompuServe Mail messages and binary files, deletes or saves mail in online mailbox. Sends maximum five text mail messages per session, plus one binary mail file.> 3. Retrieves Executive News Service clipping folder articles.
4. Collects Associated Press Latest News and Sports Scoreboard summaries, UK Press Association stories, AP France, Australian Associated Press and Deutsche Presse-Agentur news headlines. b 5. Downloads Online Today stories, and if you are a ZiffNet member, MacBeat and MacWeek articles.# 6. Retrieves financial quotations. 7. Retrieves weather forecasts.
8. Visits three forums, collects waiting messages, new messages, or all messages posted in last 24 hours in selected sections, sends forum messages, and retrieves library files.w 9. Navigates to user selected online area, configures CIS for interactive use, calls user written script, or logs off.
ReadCIS SHELL
File Management...l10. Displays Cismail, news stories, financial reports, weather forecasts, and forum messages from In Basket.r11. Allows user to select Word, Reader, Textview or a vertical reader for reading news stories and forum messages.
12. Creates and edits Cismail, forum messages and replies in Out Basket. Files are automatically named and stored in the correct formats.X13. Allows user to optionally choose word processor with word wrap for Cismail creation.J14. Imports addresses from Data file address book or a CompuServe message.115. Prepares files to be sent via binary Cismail./16. Deletes message files, singly or in groups.217. Archives selected files to separate directory.
Script Management...;18. Creates, deletes, and shows status of script switches.
19. Toggles switches On/Off.620. Allows user to hide infrequently changed switches.)21. Launches script for online execution.
HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS
To use ReadCIS you must have:)Psion Series 3a computer with 3Fax modem;
-OR- all of the following: 1. Psion 3Link RS 232 interface;G2. Psion Modem Adapter Cable, or null modem adapter and gender changer;E3. Hayes compatible modem with hardware V.42 or MNP error correction.
If you do not have the 3Fax modem, Psion's Modem Adapter Cable is strongly recommended, because many null modem adapters do not connect the proper pins for RTS/CTS hardware handshaking.
At least one SSD is also recommended for reading news stories and forum messages. These files can be quite large, and the internal disk may provide inadequate storage. Also, an improperly configured modem can cause a serial overload, which may lock the
computer and require a reset. Files stored on the internal disk could be lost. If you use the internal disk, backup your files before each online session, and close applications to make the internal disk as large as possible.
FILE INSTALLATION
Copy all files to the \APP\READCIS\ directory on any Series 3a disk. To create this directory press <Psion-+> from the System screen, and type: \APP\READCIS Be certain to include the backslash at the beginning of the line.
'A complete installation will include...
Forums.sco
Logoff.sco Logon.sco
Reacarc.opa
Readcis.dbf
Readcis.hlp
Readcis.opa
Readfor.opa
Readset.opa
Rhscms.dyl
Services.sco
Sys$help.opo
Threecis.scoe
SYSTEM INSTALLATION
UThe ReadCIS installation procedure is slightly different than for other applications:
' 1. Press <Psion-I> from System screen.
2. Press <Tab>.
3. Select \APP\READCIS\ , (change disk if necessary to find it).
4. Press <Enter>.
5. Select "Readcis.opa" < (choose carefully, there are files with similar names).
6. Press <Enter>.
7. Press <Enter> again.
8. ReadCIS icon will appear.
If it is not already on your screen, you should also install the Comms icon. Attach 3Link or 3Fax to the Series 3a, press <Psion-I>, set Disk to C, and choose "Comms.app" or "Fcomms.app". It is most convenient to install ReadCIS and Comms side-by-side.
You should also assign a button to ReadCIS, as explained in "The System Screen" chapter of the "Series 3a User Guide". These instructions assume you have assigned it to [Control+Word].
REGISTRATION
ReadCIS and ThreeCIS are shareware, which means you can try the program before deciding to purchase it, and you may give copies of the trial version to other Psion Series 3a users to try. However, you cannot legally continue to use the program if you decW
ide not to register it, nor may you give copies of the registered version to others.
The trial version can send only one Cismail message per session, and visits only one forum. The registered version can send five mail messages, and works in three forums.
You may use the trial version for 14 days, and we will provide assistance to get the program to work with your modem during that period, but further support and customization are available only to registered users. To register, GO SWREG on CompuServe. If
you have a new CIS account, you will not be able to use SWREG until you receive your permanent password. The SWREG ID number is 3440, and includes both ThreeCIS and ReadCIS. The cost is $25.00.
%Alternately, you may mail payment to:
Dennis Lefebvre
Box 681269
Miami, FL 33168
6US ($25.00), or British (UKL16.00) funds only, please.
Upon receipt of your registration, we will send an additional program file via binary CompuServe Mail that will convert the trial version into the full version.
LICENSE
Registered users are licensed to use ReadCIS, including the ThreeCIS script, on a Psion Series 3a computer, and to make additional copies of the program files for backup purposes. Use of the program or script by more than one person requires additional l
icenses. The license is not transferrable, and users may not distribute copies of the "Readcis.reg" file, which is supplied separately from the "Readcis.zip" archive to registered users.
ReadCIS and ThreeCIS are copyright material of David Keppler and Dennis Lefebvre, all ownership rights are retained. Unlicensed use beyond a 14 day trial period is prohibited. The program and script work reliably on our computers, with our modems, but we
do not warrant that the software is error free, nor do we assume any liability for consequential, incidental or indirect damages of any kind, including lost data, telephone cost, or CompuServe charges. Use at your own risk.
RHSCMS.DYL is copyright material of Right Hand Software Ltd. and all ownership rights are retained. Unlicensed use is prohibited. While appropriate care has been taken in the creation of RHSCMS.DYL, Right Hand Software Ltd. does not warrant that the softw
are is error free. Indeed, Right Hand Software Ltd. disclaims all and any warranties relating to the software. Under no circumstances shall Right Hand Software Ltd. be liable for consequential, incidental or indirect damages of any kind arising from the
use of the RHSComs software.2
SUPPORT
pQuestions pertaining to the ThreeCIS Script should be sent to Dennis Lefebvre via CompuServe Mail at 71660,1273.
mQuestions pertaining to the ReadCIS Shell should be sent to David Keppler via CompuServe Mail at 100034,2641.
fQuestions pertaining to the interaction between ThreeCIS and ReadCIS may be addressed to either of us.
If you are unable to access CompuServe Mail, emergency requests may be faxed to Dennis Lefebvre +1-305-688-7661. This fax machine is in the US Eastern time zone and is unattended on weekends, holidays, and nights.@
NAMES
ReadCIS uses variables called Names. Before the script will run, information must be added to the Names file, following these procedures:
1. Start ReadCIS.
' 2. Press <Psion-+> to Configure Names.
3. Use the Connect Settings and Online Settings menus to open the dialogs and type a value for each Name. Press <Enter> after completing each dialog.
? 4. Press <Psion-X> to save the values and return to ReadCIS.
It is also possible to exit the Names maintainence without saving any changes by pressing <Shift-Psion-X>, or to use temporary values by exiting with <Psion-T>.
Name values are stored in the "Readcis.cfg" file, located in the \CIS\CONFIG\ directory. "Readcis.cfg" is initially created on the default disk. It may be moved to any Psion disk. Exit ReadCIS before attempting to move the file.
2.0.1
MULTIPLE CONFIGURATIONS
Name values are stored in the "Readcis.cfg" file, located in the \CIS\CONFIG\ directory. Alternate sets of Name values may be stored in other configuration files, which will appear in a list under the ReadCIS icon on the System screen. Multiple configura
tions may be useful if you have more than one CompuServe account, use ReadCIS with modems requiring different initialisation strings, to store access numbers for different geographic areas, or to access different sets of forums.
(To create an additional configuration...
"1) Press <Psion-X> to exit ReadCIS*2) Position cursor under the ReadCIS icon.$3) Press <Psion-C> to copy the file.?4) Type a name for the new configuration, 8 characters maximum.
5) Press <Enter>.
When restarting ReadCIS select a configuration file name and press <Enter>. Initially, a new configuration will be identical to the file that was copied. Press <Psion-+> to Configure Names and make the desired changes. To verify which configuration is in
use, press <Shift-Psion-H>.
2.1.1
MODEM NAMES, <Psion-O>
Initialisation String
Command to configure modem.
3Fax modem users set: &F\G1%C0.
Others, consult modem manual to determine the type of handshaking it supports, and commands to invoke it. If the Series 3a and modem are not set for same type of handshaking you will experience serial overflows, dropped characters, missed prompts and froz
en connections. Choosing the right settings is essential for proper script operation. Do not copy the string from CompuServe Information Manager, the requirements are incompatible. Never include the AT prefix, nor a ^M suffix, these functions are perfo
rmed by the script.
Here are guidelines for configuring modems other than 3Fax, but do not use any modem command without consulting the documentation...
- If using a V.42 or MNP error correcting modem with Psion's modem adapter cable, set the modem for Rts/Cts hardware flow control. This may be the default setting, or it may require a command such as \Q3, &K1 or &H1 depending on the model. Also, set the
modem to use V.42 or MNP error correction. Again, this may be the default, or it may require a command such as \N3, &Q5 or &M4. Flow control and error correction work together, misconfiguration of either parameter may produce similar problems.
- If using a V.42 or MNP error correcting modem, but with a generic null modem adapter, first try using Rts/Cts hardware flow control. However, if there are problems with serial overflows, dropped characters, or missing blocks of text, change to Xon/Xoff
software flow control. Typical commands are \Q1, &K2 or &H2, and the XONXOFF.ON switch is required, see topic 7.1.1. Either way, be sure to enable V.42 or MNP error correction.
- If using a modem that does not provide hardware error correction, use &F&C1&D2 as the Initialisation String and create an XONXOFF.ON switch as described in topic 7.1.1. ReadCIS may not perform satisfactorily with such modems, including modems that emul
ate MNP or V.42 with software.u
2.1.2
MODEM NAMES, <Psion-O>
Tone Recognition
.Control dial tone and busy signal recognition.
When set to the default value (X4) the modem will wait for dialtone before dialing, and report if the number called is busy. If the modem erroneously reports "NO DIALTONE" or mistakes ringing for "BUSY" signal, change to (X1). The script may not functio
n correctly with X0.
2.1.3
MODEM NAMES, <Psion-O>
Sound
Control modem loudspeaker.SSet to M1 to hear the modem dial and handshake. Change to M0 for silent operation.
2.2.1
DIALING NAMES, <Psion-D>
Exchange Type
Select tone or pulse dialing.
2.2.2
DIALING NAMES, <Psion-D>
Dialout Code
(Prefix to access outside telephone line.
Enter one or more digits to be dialed before all phone numbers, such as when dialling from a hotel or office. Optionally, place a comma after code to pause before dialing phone number, or W to wait for second dialtone.
2.2.3
DIALING NAMES, <Psion-D>
Autoexec Number
#Phone number used in AUTOEXEC mode.fSee topic 7.9.2 for information about the optional AUTOEXEC.ON switch which bypasses the script menus.
2.2.4
DIALING NAMES, <Psion-D>
Hotel Number
$"Hotel" phone number on Dialing Menu
Enter CompuServe access number used while traveling. In the US, consider the nationwide 1-800-331-7166 number. There is a $0.10 per minute surcharge, but this is often more economical than paying $0.75 per call at a hotel, especially with a high speed mod
em where online time is short.
2.2.5
DIALING NAMES, <Psion-D>
Home Number
$"Home" phone number on Dialing Menu.
Enter CompuServe access number used from home. This Name ignores the Dialout Code Name (topic 2.2.2), so one may leave the code permanently set as required for work or travel, and conveniently use ReadCIS from home.
2.2.6
DIALING NAMES, <Psion-D>
Work Number
$"Work" phone number on Dialing Menu.;Enter CompuServe access number used from business location.
2.2.7
DIALING NAMES, <Psion-D>
Other Number
$"Other" phone number on Dialing Menu#Enter any CompuServe access number.
2.3.1
USER NAMES, <Psion-U> Your Name
!User's full first and last names.
2.3.2
USER NAMES, <Psion-U>
User ID
CompuServe User ID.fBe careful not to enter any spaces before, within, or after the User ID number else logon may failure.
2.3.3
USER NAMES, <Psion-U>
CIS Password
CompuServe PasswordMEnter CompuServe password exactly as it is stored online, or logon will fail.
If a CIS Password is stored in this dialog it must be reentered before the User Names dialog can be viewed. This protects the password in the event the Series 3a is lost or stolen. If unable to access this dialog, exit ReadCIS and delete the \CIS\CONFIG\
Readcis.cfg file. If this file is deleted, the values for all Names will be lost and must be reentered before using the program.R
2.4.1
NETWORK NAMES, <Psion-W>
Network Login
!Reserved for future enhancements.
2.4.2
NETWORK NAMES, <Psion-W>
Network Password
!Reserved for future enhancements.
2.4.3
NETWORK NAMES, <Psion-W>
Network Address
!Reserved for future enhancements.
2.5.1
FORUM NAMES, <Psion-F>
Forum 1 Name
&The GO word used to navigate to Forum1_Forum1 is preset to CIS:PALMTOP, but change as needed, include the CIS:, ZNT: or ZMC: prefix.
2.5.2
FORUM NAMES, <Psion-F>
Forum 1 Sections
'The message sections to read in Forum1.
Preset to 1,18-20, to retrieve all Psion related messages. Change as needed, separating section numbers by commas or hyphens. Choose sections carefully, all new messages will be retrieved.
2.5.3
FORUM NAMES, <Psion-F>
Forum 2 Name
&The GO word used to navigate to Forum2PInclude the CIS:, ZNT: or ZMC: prefix. Forum2 is disabled in the trial version.
2.5.4
FORUM NAMES, <Psion-F>
Forum 2 Sections
'The message sections to read in Forum2.
List sections, separated by commas or hyphens. Choose sections carefully, all new messages will be retrieved. Forum2 is disabled in the trial version.
2.5.5
FORUM NAMES, <Psion-F>
Forum 3 Name
&The GO word used to navigate to Forum3PInclude the CIS:, ZNT: or ZMC: prefix. Forum3 is disabled in the trial version.
2.5.6
FORUM NAMES, <Psion-F>
Forum 3 Sections
'The message sections to read in Forum3.
List sections, separated by commas or hyphens. Choose sections carefully, all new messages will be retrieved. Forum3 is disabled in the trial version.
2.6.1
SERVICE NAMES, <Psion-S>
Ticker Symbols
Codes for financial quotations.
GO LOOKUP to find ticker symbols to list in this name, separated by commas, (e.g. XRBP, F). The QUOTES.ON switch is required to use this feature, see topic 7.5.1.
2.6.2
SERVICE NAMES, <Psion-S>
Weather City
!Name or code for weather reports.FThere are two weather service options, see topics 7.6.1 through 7.6.3.
|If using WEATHER1 switch, which retrieves report for a single city, enter the city name in plain English, such as LONDON,UK.
If using WEATHER2 switch, which retrieves reports for several cities, enter the city names in required format, separated by semi-colons. North American cities must include a two letter state or province postal code, such as MIAMI,FL; VANCOUVER,BC. Intern}
ational cities cannot be entered by name, a four letter code is required. Many of these codes are listed in ReadCIS <Help>.d
2.7.1
USER COMMAND NAME, <Psion-C>
User Command
5Optional command sent to CompuServe at end of script.
ReadCIS can be configured to "Remain Online" after completing automatic actions, permitting user to work interactively in terminal emulation mode. This command determines where the interactive session begins. Any valid CompuServe command can be used.
2.8.1
USER NAMES, <Psion-N>%User Name 1, User Name 2, User Name 3
Reserved for user scripts.
ReadCIS can be extended with user written scripts, see topic 7.9.9. These Names are available to store variables used in such scripts.
3.1.1
ONLINE SETUP: General
Configure CompuServe
The script cannot be tested with every possible combination of online parameters, but only a few setting are known to be required. Others are recommended for fast reliable operation.
% 1. Logon to CompuServe interactively
2. GO TERMINAL) 3. Select CHANGE PERMANENT SETTINGS Menu
4. Select DISPLAY OPTIONS Menu+ 5. Select CHARACTER SET and choose [ASCII]
0If any supplementary access networks are used...
) 6. Select TERMINAL TYPE/PARAMETERS Menu, 7. Select TERMINAL TYPE and choose [OTHER]( 8. Select OUTPUT DELAYS and choose [0]
Repeat all 8 steps for each network used. Also, repeat the process at each logon speed used (2400bps, 9600bps, 14400bps) because CompuServe maintains a separate profile for each network/speed combination.
gBelow are all my settings, with the ones that might affect the script operation marked with asterisks.
*** Required for all users. ** Required for supplementary network users * Recommended for all users
LOGON/SERVICE OPTIONS* *1 First service at logon [COMMAND]* *2 CompuServe Mail waiting [NOTIFY ONLY]+ 3 Personal menu established [NO]
(Select this to create or
change a personal menu.)+ 4 TOP goes to [MENU]+ 5 Online editor [EDIT]+ 6 Forum presentation mode [MENU]+ 7 Basic Service Alerts [NO]
PERM DISPLAY OPTIONS+ 1 PAGED display [YES]* *2 BRIEF prompts [YES]+ 3 CLEAR screen between pages [YES]+ 4 BLANK lines sent [YES]* 5 Line feeds sent [YES]* 6 Language Preference [ENGLISH]****7 Character Set [ASCII]
TERMINAL TYPE/PARAMETERS* **1 TERMINAL type [OTHER]* 2 Screen WIDTH [80]* 3 LINES per page [24]* 4 Form FEEDS [SIMULATED]* 5 Horizontal TABS [SIMULATED]* 6 Chars. received (CASE) [U/L]* 7 Chars. sent in CAPS [NO]* 8 PARITY [NONE]* **9 Output DELAYS [0]* 10 ERASE when backspacing [YES]* 11 Micro inquiry sequence at logon [NO]
FILE TRANSFER PROTOCOL* 1 PROTOCOL preference [SHOW MENU]
GRAPHICS SUPPORT* 2 GIF SUPPORT [NO]* 3 NAPLPS SUPPORT [NO]* 4 RLE SUPPORT [NO]
3.1.2
ONLINE SETUP, CompuServe Mail
Configure CompuServe Mail
GO ASCIIMAIL, and at the Mail! prompt type ADD NAM, press <Enter>, and follow the online prompts to verify that your name and postal address are stored in your online mailbox.This is necessary to send mail messages without embedding a From: line in the te
Then, type SET RETAIN and press <Enter>. If CIS responds "Current RETAIN is YES" just press<Enter> again, but if CIS responds "Current RETAIN is NO" you should activate this feature. To do so, type SET and press <Enter>. This menu appears:
CompuServe Mail Options Menu
[ ] Represents Current Setting
(yes/no options toggle) 1 EDITOR uses line numbers [NO]! 2 MODE of operation is [COMMAND]
(MENU, PROMPT, COMMAND)
3 Output is PAGED [NO]% 5 RECEIVE postage-due messages [YES]
6 SHOW Recipients [NO]
Type "SET RETAIN YES". CompuServe will reply **Please use menu options**, and redisplay the menu. Press 1 to toggle line numbers [YES]. Press 1 again to toggle line numbers back to [No]. (You are doing this only to force CIS to save the retain setting.) P
ress <Enter>, and CIS will ask "Make changes permanent for future CompuServe Mail sessions?" Answer Yes, and press <Enter>. CIS will respond "Current RETAIN is NO". Ignore this, just press <Enter>, and logoff.I
3.1.3
ONLINE SETUP, Latin-1
!Compatability with Latin-1 access
ReadCIS cannot display Latin-1 characters, including the British pound sign
, because the Series 3a uses a different character set than CompuServe. Most CIS access programs, including CompuServe Information Manager and CompuServe Navigator, set CIS to u
se Latin-1 characters for each online session, and permanent online settings can be as required by ReadCIS. However, a few programs require Latin-1 as the permanent online setting. The only such programs we are aware of are OzCIS and WigWam.
ReadCIS can coexist with these programs provided the permanent "Parity" setting is [ZERO] and the "First Service at Logon" is not [COMMAND]. An EIGHTBIT.ON switch is also required, see topic 7.1.3 before changing any online settings.
Unfortunately, when the Character Set is switched to Latin-1 the true parity setting is masked as [NONE]. To verify settings, follow these procedures...
1. Logon to CIS interactively
2. GO TERMINAL% 3. Select CHANGE PERMANENT SETTINGS
4. Select DISPLAY OPTIONS$ 5. Change CHARACTER SET to [ASCII]
6. Choose TERMINAL TYPE
7. Change PARITY to [ZERO]
8. Return to DISPLAY OPTIONS% 9. Change CHARACTER SET to [LATIN1]
10.Choose LOGON/SERVICE OPTIONS*11.Change FIRST SERVICE AT LOGON to [MAIN]
12.Type EXIT
13.Press 1 to confirm changes
4.1.1
RUNNING THE SCRIPT
6After configuring Names and performing online setup...
2 1. Attach 3Fax, or 3Link and modem, to Series 3a.
2. Start ReadCIS.
Y 3. Press <Psion-O>, or to remain online after the script is done, press <Shift-Psion-O>.
z 4. The ThreeCIS menu shows five options, discussed in topic 4.2.1. To select an option, cursor to it, and press <Enter>.
5. The script initializes the modem and displays the Dialing Menu, discussed in topic 4.2.2. Choose the node to call, and press <Enter>. The script will dial, logon and execute all online operations without user intervention. DO NOT PRESS ANY KEYS WHILE
THE SCRIPT IS ONLINE.
If the script displays a "No Answer", "No Dialtone", "Busy" or "No Carrier" alert, a menu will appear allowing you to Redial, Change the number you are calling, or Exit the script. Often, there will be a Hint explaining how to possibly correct the problem
All other alerts terminate the script and offer a brief explanation of the problem. Please record information displayed before pressing <Esc>.
CAUTION: If you switch away from the script while it is running you cannot return to it through ReadCIS. Instead, select the file "ThreeCIS" under the Comms icon.
6. At the end of the script the modem disconnects, and returns to ReadCIS. If you use <Shift-Psion-O> or <Shift-Psion-W> to "Remain Online", or if the modem does not disconnect and drop carrier properly, press <Psion-X> to return to ReadCIS.
4.2.1
ThreeCIS MENU
*The ThreeCIS menu displays five options...
V-Select Node: Use to move to next menu after setting toggles below for online session.
-Bypass Logon: Use to run script if already online. This allows manual logon, or with another script, if using a network ThreeCIS does not recognize, such as via an Internet connection. There is a delay before the script runs if the Cismail toggle is [Of
-Cismail: Use to toggle Compuserve Mail [On] or [Off]. The toggle is automatically set [On] if there are messages in the MAIL Out Basket. If the toggle is [Off], Cismail is bypassed; no mail is sent or retrieved. See topic 7.3 for Cismail options.
-Services: Use to toggle all news, weather and financial services [On] or [Off]. If it is [Off], all services are bypassed; no information is retrieved. This toggle is ignored until one or more service switches have been created, see topics 7.4 through 7
-Forums: Use to toggle all forums [On] or [Off]. The toggle is automatically set [On] if there are messages in the FORUMS Out Basket, if a GETFILE switch is set, or if the script is started in Read Waiting Mode with <Psion-W>. If the toggle is [Off] all fl
orums will bypassed; no forum messages or files sent or retrieved. See topic 7.7 for setting forum options.j
4.2.2
DIALING MENU
The first four options on the Dialing Menu correspond to the CIS phone numbers entered in the Dialing Names dialog: "Hotel", "Home", "Work" and "Other".
2The "Directory" option is discussed in topic 4.2.3
The "Manual" option permits direct entry of a number without storing it in the Names file. This choice ignores the Dialout and Tone Recognition Names, and always `blind dials` the literal number entered, without waiting for dial tone. Also use this opti~
on, leaving the number blank, when calling from a phone that requires one to dial from its own keypad or through an operator.&
4.2.3
DIALING DIRECTORY
"Directory ..." leads to submenus for CompuServe nodes in Asia, Europe and North America. These numbers are built into the script, and cannot be modified.
Only the local phone numbers are stored. Additional digits must be entered in the "Dialing Prefix & Area Code" Query for use outside the node's local calling zone . If the call is local, or to the Israeli, Swiss or US nationwide numbers, press <Enter> tL
o bypass the Query. Do not press <Esc>, because that will exit the script.
The digits entered in the "Dialing Prefix & Area Code" Query are dialed after the "Dialout" Name, and before the telephone number. Do not enter the same information twice. For example, if you usually stay at hotels that require a "9" prefix to access an
outside line, you might set the "Dialout" Name to 9, and then enter only the area code, if needed, in the "Dialing Prefix & Area Code" Query. However, if the places you stay have varied dialout procedures, you might leave the "Dialout" Name blank, and e1
nter everything in the Query each time you dial.
The Directory is designed for travel, if you use one of these nodes as your regular access point you will find it more convenient to enter the number in the "Home" or "Work" Name so you can call it directly from the Dialing Menu.
ReadCIS SCREEN
KAt the top of the ReadCIS screen is the menu bar. One menu is always open.
At the bottom of the screen is a status bar, above which are file lists showing the contents of the MAIL In and Out Baskets, SERVICES file directory, FORUMS In and Out Baskets, downloaded LIBRARY files, and SWITCHES On or Off status. The file lists are noM
t sorted alphabetically, and can be refreshed at any time by pressing <Esc>.
XAt the far right of the bar are indicators for the Text Reader and Mail Editor settings.M
5.1.1
READING CISMAIL MESSAGES
All Cismail retrieved in an online session is stored in the MAIL! file, shown in the MAIL In Basket. To read mail press <Psion-M>, the file is automatically loaded into Word, and can be used like any other document. To return to ReadCIS press [Control+Wo*
rd] or close the document with <Psion-X>.
5.1.2*CREATING CISMAIL MESSAGES WITH TEXT EDITOR
To create a Cismail message, start ReadCIS, or if you are already reading MAIL!, return to ReadCIS by pressing [Control+Word], then:
1. Press <Psion-C>.
2. The "Create Mail Header" dialogue will appear. On the first line type the CompuServe address to which you wish to send the message. Use <Down-Arrow> to move to the second line, and type the Subject of the message. Then press <Enter>.
Example:
To: Dennis Lefebvre 71660,1273
Subject: ReadCIS Test
If you maintain a Data file of CompuServe addresses on your Psion 3a, you can import an address from it into ReadCIS, see topic 5.4.1. Also, if the correspondent is listed in your CompuServe Mail *online* address book, you need only enter a name on the f
irst line.
`The same message can be sent to several addresses, by separating them with semi-colons. Example:
To: 71660,1273; 10034,2641
Subject: ReadCIS Test II
3. The Word application is started, in Text Editor mode, and the text from the dialogue is inserted in the file. Cursor down to the end of the Subject line, press <Enter> to move to the next line, and compose your message just like any Word document. D
o not use Latin-1 extended characters, including the British Pound sign, because they are lost when the message is sent. Word wrap is not implemented in Text Editor mode, you must press <Enter> each time the cursor reaches the right edge of the screen.
Toggle between Mail!, and the message you are creating, by pressing [Word]. Selected text can be copied between the documents with "bring" <Psion-B>.
G 4. Press <Psion-X> to close the file, and you are returned to ReadCIS.
ReadCIS automatically names the file, and stores it in the MAIL Out Basket. The first message is named Mail1, the second Mail2, and so forth through Mail5. The series of file names must be unbroken; if there is no Mail2 file, ThreeCIS will not look for Ma
il3, etc.
; 5. To edit a message already saved, press <Shift-Psion-C>.
5.1.2.1(CREATING CISMAIL MESSAGES WITH WORD WRAP
Two extra steps are required to create a Cismail message with word wrap implemented. The text editor method is easier, especially for short messages.
oFirst, press <Shift-Psion-U>, set mode to Word, press <Enter>, and proceed as in Text Editor method, steps 1-3.
Second, when done composing, press <Psion-A> and complete the dialogue as shown, using the filename shown in the status window, do not type a file extension:
File: Name Mail[1-5]
Disk [Default]
Use new file Yes
File type Text
If you do not set "Use new file" _Yes_ and "File type" _Text_ the file is saved in Psion Word's proprietary format, CIS is unable to read the embedded address, and the script fails.
After completing the dialogue, press <Enter>, then use <Psion-X> to return to ReadCIS. If you change even one character you must press <Psion-A> and complete the dialog again before exiting.
5.1.3
PREPARING BINARY CISMAIL
Binary mail allows the transfer of files via Cismail, although some files may not be suitable for transfer via XMODEM protocol. The script can send one file per session.
To prepare Binary Mail, press <Psion-B> <Tab>, navigate to the file you wish to send, press<Enter>. The file is copied to the MAIL Out Basket and named "Binary.out". The original file is unchanged. If there is a Binary file in the Out Basket, a Binary M
ail query will appear when you choose "Select Node" from the ThreeCIS Menu. Type the address and subject for the file, using arrow keys to navigate; press <Enter> only when done. <Esc> exits the script.O
5.2.1
READING SERVICE FILES
All news, weather and financial information files retrieved in an online session are stored in the SERVICES directory. To read financial quotations, press <Psion-Q>, and the QUOTES file is automatically opened in a monofont text editor to display columnar
data. To read the other SERVICES files, press <Psion-S>, choose a file, press <Enter>. You can use the file like any Word document. To return to ReadCIS, press [Control+Word], or <Psion-X> to exit the file.
Word can only open files up to about 40,000 bytes. Some news service files will exceed this limit, and cannot be read without Reader or another of the text viewers available in library 18 of CIS:PALMTOP, which display text files of unlimited length. Pr\
ess <Psion-U> to set ReadCIS to use one of these utilities to read Service and Forum files.t
5.3.1
READING FORUM MESSAGES
All forum messages retrieved in an online session are stored in the FORUMS In Basket. To read messages, press <Psion-F>, choose the Forum number to read, press <Enter>. To return to ReadCIS press [Control+Word], or <Psion-X> to exit the file.
Word can only open files up to about 40,000 bytes. Forum message files can easily exceed this limit, and cannot be read without Reader or another of the text viewers available in library 18 of CIS:PALMTOP, which display text files of unlimited length. ^
Press <Psion-U> to set ReadCIS to use one of these utilities to read Service and Forum files.
5.3.2
REPLYING TO FORUM MESSAGES
To create a forum reply, start ReadCIS, or if you are reading FORUM In Basket messages, return to ReadCIS by pressing [Control+Word], then:
1. Press <Psion-R>.
] 2. "Select Forum" dialogue appears, choose forum where reply is to be posted, press <Enter>.
3. "Create Forum Reply Header" dialogue appears, type the number of the message you wish to reply to, press <Enter>. Replies are posted by message number, no name or address is used.
WARNING: If you attempt to reply to a message that does not exist, or has scrolled off the forum, the script will fail. Enter the number carefully, and send your reply as soon as possible after reading the original message. Also, make certain to use the S
number of the message you are replying to, not the number of the "parent" message.
4. The Word application is started in Text Editor mode, and the text from the dialog is inserted in the file. Move the cursor to the end of the line, press <Enter> to move to the next line, and compose the message just like any Word document. Do not use
Latin-1 characters, including the British Pound sign, because they are lost when the message is posted. Word wrap is not implemented in the Text Editor, you must press <Enter> when the cursor reaches the right edge of the screen. CIS requires a carriag[
e return at the end of every line of a forum message, there is no option to use word wrap.
If both files are open in Word, toggle between the FORUM In Basket file you are reading, and the REPLY you are creating, by pressing the [WORD] button. Selected text can be copied between documents with "bring" <Psion-B>.
\ 5. When the message is complete, press <Psion-X> to close the file and return to ReadCIS.
Five replies can be created in each forum. ReadCIS automatically names the files, and stores them in the FORUM Out Basket. The replies to be posted in Forum1 are named Reply1a, Reply1b through Reply1e; those in Forum2 are named Reply2a, Reply2b, etc. File\
names are used consecutively, the script will not look for Reply1c if there is no Reply1b.
Each time a reply is sent the file "\CIS\_cisecho.txt" is created on the default drive. It will not show on the screen. You may ignore or delete the file; it is overwritten each reply. However, if the script fails while posting a reply this file may contaY
in a CompuServe error message, so please rename and keep it if you experience a problem.
9 6. To edit a Reply already saved, press <Shift-Psion-R>.b
5.3.3
CREATING A NEW FORUM THREAD
aTo start a new forum topic, start ReadCIS, or return to ReadCIS by pressing [Control+Word], then:
1. Press <Psion-N>.
` 2. "Select Forum" dialogue appears, choose forum where message is to be posted, press <Enter>.
3. "Create Forum Message Header" dialogue appears, type message address, subject and forum section where message is to be posted:
. Name: Name -or- ALL -or- SYSOP -or- *SYSOP Address: CIS User ID (optional)# Subject: Text, up to 24 characters
Section: Number 1-24
The message header is stored in a separate file, and will not be visible while composing the message. Do not include a TO: line in the message text.
4. The Word application is started in Text Editor mode. Compose message just like any other Word document. Do not use Latin-1 extended characters, including the British Pound sign, because they are lost when the message is posted. Word wrap is not imple
mented in Text Editor mode, press <Enter> each time the cursor reaches the right edge of the screen. CIS requires a carriage return at end of every line of a forum message, so there is no word wrap option.
c 5. When you have completed the message, press <Psion-X> to close the file, and return to ReadCIS.
You can create one new thread in each forum. ReadCIS automatically names the files NEW1, NEW2, and NEW3 and stores them in the FORUM Out Basket. The Message Header information is stored separately in files with an .ADD extension.
New forum messages are uploaded to CompuServe using YMODEM protocol. If you experience difficulty posting Replies, due to poor phone line quality, you may still be able to send a New message.
6. To edit a message already saved, press <Shift-Psion-R>. To edit the message header, press <Shift-Psion-N>. Use extreme care in editing the header, the formatting must not be changed, or the script will fail.
5.4.1#IMPORT COMPUSERVE ADDRESS FROM DATA
OTo import a CompuServe address from a Data file address book, in this format...
Name: David Keppler
Address: 100034,2641
/ 1. Press [Data] to switch to the address book.
2. Highlight both lines.. 3. Press [Control+Word] to return to ReadCIS.? 4. Press <Psion-Y>. The name and address are stored in buffer.# 5. Press <Psion-C> to Create Mail.
or1 Press <Psion-N> to Create New Forum Message.
/The name and address will appear in the dialog.
5.4.2#IMPORT COMPUSERVE ADDRESS FROM WORD
J 1. Highlight a name and address in a message you are reading with Word...
* SYSOP*Dennis Lefebvre [71660,1273]
- 2. Press [Control+Word] to return to ReadCIS= 3. Press <Psion-Y>. Name and address are stored in buffer. " 4. Press <Psion-C> to Create Mail
or0 Press <Psion-N> to Create New Forum Message
/The name and address will appear in the dialog.
Note that when importing a single-line address into the <Psion-N> dialogue ReadCIS splits the line into two parts, assuming that the first numeral is the beginning of the address. This may not always be correct, requiring you to manually edit the address.D
FILE MANAGEMENT
ReadCIS checks for the existence of files as a way of controlling activity during online sessions. If a file already exists, the script omits the online process where that file is created. This protects files against accidental overwrite, and also gives a,
way to skip a particular area temporarily.
6.1.1
MAIL FILE MANAGEMENT
If MAIL! is already in the MAIL In Basket, the script does not retrieve additional mail, although it can send outgoing mail. The MAIL! file must be deleted, archived or renamed before additional mail can be downloaded.
zAfter transmitting Cismail, remember to delete, archive, or rename the MAIL1 - MAIL5 files, else they will be sent again.
dRenaming a file with <Psion-J> has the advantage of leaving it visible in the MAIL In or Out Basket.
6.1.2
DELETE MAIL FILES
GTo delete Cismail files, press <Psion-D>, and choose from four options:
-Single File - Select and delete one MAIL file-In Basket - Delete all MAIL In Basket files.Out Basket - Delete all MAIL Out Basket files-All - Delete all MAIL filesR
6.1.3
ARCHIVE MAIL FILES
Archived files are moved to the \CIS\ARCHIVE\ directory on the default disk, and can be read by pressing <Psion-V>. Archives can be deleted with <Psion-K>.
!To archive a single MAIL file ...
1. Press <Psion-A>.
2. Select the file.$ 3. Type filename to use in archive.
4. Press <Enter>.
"To archive groups of MAIL files...
1. Press <Shift-Psion-A>.
2. Files are stored with the same names as used in the MAIL In and Out Baskets, but with an extension based on the current date. K 3. Accept the default extension for each batch of files, or type another. y
6.2.1
SERVICE FILE MANAGEMENT
If files exist in the SERVICES directory the script will not visit those areas to collect updated news stories, weather forecasts, or financial reports. Files must be deleted, archived or renamed before additional articles can be collected.
aRenaming a file with <Psion-J> has the advantage of leaving it visible in the SERVICES directory.
6.2.2
DELETE SERVICE FILES
cTo delete SERVICES files, press <Psion-P> and choose to delete a single file, or all service files.h
6.2.3
ARCHIVE SERVICE FILES
uArchived files are moved to the \CIS\ARCHIVE\ directory on the default disk. Archives can be deleted with <Psion-K>.
6. Press <Enter>.$ 7. Type filename to use in archive.
8. Press <Enter>.
Archived files can be read by pressing <Psion-V>. Word cannot open files larger than 40,000 bytes. Larger files should be renamed with <Psion-J>, and left in the SERVICES directory for reading with the Text Reader selected with <Psion-U>. G
6.3.1
FORUM FILE MANAGEMENT
If FORUM1, FORUM2 or FORUM3 exist in the FORUMS In Basket the script will not retrieve messages from that forum, although Replies, and New Messages will be sent, and library files will be retrieved. After transmitting forum messages delete or archive the'
files, else they will be sent again. $
6.3.2
DELETE FORUM FILES
ETo delete FORUM files, press <Psion-E>, and choose from four options:
.Single File - Select and delete one FORUM file.In Basket - Delete all FORUM In Basket files/Out Basket - Delete all FORUM Out Basket files.All - Delete all FORUM files_
6.3.3
ARCHIVE FORUM FILES
uArchived files are moved to the \CIS\ARCHIVE\ directory on the default disk. Archives can be deleted with <Psion-K>.
6. Press <Enter>.$ 7. Type filename to use in archive.
8. Press <Enter>.
Archived files can be read by pressing <Psion-V>. Word cannot open files larger than 40,000 bytes. Larger files should be renamed with <Psion-J>, and left in the FORUMS In Basket for reading with the Text Reader selected with <Psion-U>.
SWITCHES
ThreeCIS uses switches to determine optional online actions. ReadCIS creates and manages the switches, and shows which are ON or OFF above the SWITCHES area of the status bar.
Switches are files, with an .ON or .OFF extension. To create a switch, press <Psion-I>, type the switch name, press <Enter>. Switch is set "On" when created. To toggle switch On/Off, press <Psion-T>, choose the switch, press <Enter>. To remove a switch,
use <Shift-Psion-I>.
A switch name must be exactly correct or the script will ignore it. All switches are stored on the Internal disk, to prevent losing settings when reformatting an SSD. Switches are "zero byte" files, they use no space.
If the SWITCH list above the Status Bar becomes congested, hide some switches by pressing <Shift-Psion-T>, and setting the Hidden attribute _Yes_. This does not change the effect of a switch, but choose switches that are permanently .ON, such as 2400.ON
Use only if modem does not explicitly support Rts/Cts hardware handshaking, or if using a generic null modem adapter. Do not use with 3Fax modem.Q
7.1.2
MODEM SWITCHES
"9600.ON, 4800.ON, 2400.ON, 1200.ON
Sets serial port speed.
The default serial port speed is 19,200bps, or 4,800bps when using the 3Fax modem. When using a V.42 or MNP error-correcting modem the port speed should be set higher than the connect speed, but if it is set too high dropped characters may result in scri
pt failure due to missed prompts or commands. When using an older non-error-correcting modem the port speed should match the connect speed.
Therefore...
CONNECTION SPEED SWITCH
V.42 or MNP 14,400bps None
V.42 or MNP 9,600bps None!V.42 or MNP 2,400bps 9600.ON Psion 3Fax 2,400bps 9600.ON!Older modem 2,400bps 2400.ON
Any modem 1,200bps 1200.ON
....but if you experience problems, try setting the port one speed lower until a reliable connection is achieved. Set only one switch.
7.1.3
MODEM SWITCHES
EIGHTBIT.ON&Sets serial port to 8 bits, no parity.
This switch does NOT set ReadCIS to use Latin-1 characters. It is implemented only to provide compatiblity with the few CompuServe access programs that require Latin-1 as a *permanent* online setting. Please Do NOT use this switch unless it is absolutely
necessary, because it has not yet been fully tested. You do NOT need this switch to use CompuServe Information Manager (TM) or CompuServe Navigator (TM) with Latin-1 characters.
See topic 3.1.3 for a discussion of the online settings required to use this switch. The settings must be made before using the switch, and once they are made ReadCIS will be unable to logon without it. Some of the supplementary networks will not responG
d correctly when this switch is used, and you will be unable to logon.
_You are strongly encouraged to contact Dennis Lefebvre [71660,1273] before trying this feature.k
NETWORK SWITCHES
In many areas where there is no direct CompuServe node, it is possible to access the service through a supplementary data network. Each network has its own logon prompts and procedures. ReadCIS requires one or two switches to recognize and respond to th
e network called. There is a surcharge for using these networks, GO PHONES to obtain access numbers and to compare costs versus dialing long distance to a direct CIS node.
+ReadCIS recognizes two types of networks...
Scitor, Sprintnet and Infonet are international networks with nodes throughout the world. ReadCIS requires a separate switch for each international network.
Datex, Dialplus, Fenics, Israkav, Mercury, Pos-Serve, Telepac and Transpac are national networks that each provide service in a single country. Two switches are required to set the script to recognize and respond to national network logon prompts. The NEl
TWORK.ON switch sets the script to use a national network, and an additional switch identifies the country.
It is essential to disable data compression when using any supplementary network. With 3Fax use the %C0 command, with other modems "H0, S46=0, or &K0 may be the appropriate command, consult the modem documentation. CompuServe's own network does not use dd
ata compression, so it is safe to make this command a permanent part of your Initialisation String.
7.2.1.Infonet
INTERNATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
(INFONET.ON plus CPS.ON, CSF.ON or CSI.ON3Access CompuServe via "Infonet" network, worldwide.
Two switches are required to set the script to recognize and respond to the Infonet logon prompts. This network can be used to access CompuServe in many countries where there is no direct CIS node.
0Use INFONET.ON plus CSF.ON in Europe and Moscow.
NUse INFONET.ON plus CSI.ON in Brazil, Columbia, Indonesia and the Phillipines.
Use INFONET.ON plus CPS.ON in Mexico, South Africa, South Korea and Taiwan. Note, however, that there is a direct CIS node in Mexico City and less expensive access via Pos-Serve in Korea.!
7.2.1.Scitor
INTERNATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
SCITOR.ON2Access CompuServe via "Scitor" network, worldwide.
This switch sets the script to recognize and respond to the Scitor logon prompts. This network can be used to access CompuServe in many countries where there is no direct CIS node.
7.2.1.Sprint
INTERNATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
SPRINT.ON5Access CompuServe via "Sprintnet" network, worldwide.
This switch sets the script to recognize and respond to the Sprintnet logon prompts. This network can be used to access CompuServe in many countries where there is no direct CIS node.
7.2.2.France
NATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
NETWORK.ON plus FRANCE.ON)Access CompuServe via "Transpac" network.
These two switches are required to set the script to recognize and respond to network logon prompts. This network can be used to access CompuServe throughout France, and the access number is built into the Dialing Menu Directory feature.l
7.2.2.Germany
NATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
NETWORK.ON plus GERMANY.ON6Access CompuServe via "Datex-J" or "Datex-P" networks.
These two switches are required to set the script to recognize and respond to network logon prompts. These networks can be used to access CompuServe in many areas of Germany where there is no direct CIS node. The Datex-J access number is built into the D
ialing Menu Directory feature.
The Datex networks may not support V.42 or MNP error correction, which also provides modem-to-modem flow control. In the event of problems with garbled characters or missing blocks of text, set modem port speed to match the connect speed, and implement mo
dem-to-modem Xon/Xoff flow control, which is unrelated to the XONXOFF.ON switch. (With 3Fax use the undocumented \G1 command, with other modems &K7 or &I5 may be required. Consult the modem documentation.)
7.2.2.Israel
NATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
NETWORK.ON plus ISRAEL.ON)Access CompuServe via "Israkav" networks.
These two switches are required to set the script to recognize and respond to network logon prompts. This network can be used to access CompuServe in Israel, where there is no direct CIS node. ReadCIS only recognizes the Israkav 2,400bps logon procedure, o
the access number is built into the Dialing Menu Directory feature. Higher speed access is not yet supported.
7.2.2.Japan
NATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
NETWORK.ON plus JAPAN.ON-Access CompuServe via the "Fenics I" network.
These two switches are required to set the script to recognize and respond to network logon prompts. This network can be used to access CompuServe in Japan, where there is no direct CIS node. The script does not recognize the "Fenics II", "Tokyo Direct D*
ial (CPS)", or "NIFTY" access networks.
7.2.2.Korea
NATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
NETWORK.ON plus KOREA.ON.Access CompuServe via the "Pos-Serve" network.
These two switches are required to set the script to recognize and respond to network logon prompts. This network can be used to access CompuServe in South Korea where there is no direct CIS node.
7.2.2.Switzerland
NATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
NETWORK.ON plus SWISS.ON,Access CompuServe via the "Telepac" network.
These two switches are required to set the script to recognize and respond to network logon prompts. This network can be used to access CompuServe in areas of Switzerland where there is no direct CIS node, the access number is built into the Dialing Menu
Directory feature.Q
7.2.2.UK
NATIONAL NETWORK SWITCHES
NETWORK.ON plus UK.ON9Access CIS via "GNS Dialplus" or "Mercury 5000" networks.
These two switches are required to set the script to recognize and respond to network logon prompts. These networks can be used to access CompuServe in many areas of the United Kingdom where there is no direct CIS node.
7.2.3
COUNTRY SWITCHES
<Set switch to identify country where you are using ReadCIS.
This enables the Dialing Menu Directory to display the CIS nodes in that country, and is required for the NETWORK.ON switch to recognize national networks. If dialing across an international border, set the switch for the country you are calling, not the =
country where you are located. Set only one country switch.
Use this switch to prevent ReadCIS deleting messages from online CompuServe Mailbox after retrieval. If this switch is set the same messages will be retrieved again each session until they are deleted and binary mail will not be detected or downloaded.
7.3.2
COMPUSERVE MAIL SWITCHES
BINARY.ON
Retrieve binary CompuServe Mail
Use this switch to retrieve binary files sent via Cismail. Up to three files can be retrieved per session, shown as BINARY1, BINARY2 and BINARY3 in the LIBRARY directory.
A CONTENTS text file lists the binary files, and can be read with <Psion-L>, or deleted with <Psion-D>. The CONTENTS file should be read before going online again, because it will be overwritten if additional binary mail is received and you may be unable
to identify the binary files.
ReadCIS cannot detect or retrieve binary mail if the SAVEMAIL.ON switch is set. The messages and binary files are deleted after retrieval. Some files may be corrupted by XMODEM protocol used to retrieve binary mail. You are strongly advised to activate C<
ismail's RETAIN feature before using the BINARY.ON switch. o
7.3.3
COMPUSERVE MAIL SWITCHES
RECEIPTS.ON"Requests Cismail delivery receipts
Use this switch to request receipts showing when mail messages have been retrieved. Receipts will be requested for all Cismail messages sent while this switch is set, there is no option to request receipts on individual messages. There is an additional c
harge for using this feature.
7.4.1.1
EXECUTIVE NEWS SERVICE SWITCHES
ENS.ON,Retrieve articles from ENS clipping folders.
Use this switch to retrieve stories from up to three Executive News Service clipping folders. The stories will be saved as ENS1, ENS2 and ENS3 in the SERVICES directory. ENS will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additional stL
ories will not be retrieved until a file is deleted, archived or renamed.
ENS is one of Compuserve's most powerful tools, because it can collect wire service articles according to your personal criteria. If you have not used it, please download and read ENS.DOC from CIS:HELPFORUM before establishing any folders, and monitor th
em for several days before using ReadCIS to retrieve stories. It is very easy to collect a huge number of irrelevant or duplicate stories until you refine your criteria. ENS is a surcharged service, time spent downloading stories is billed at a higher a
rate than other ReadCIS Services. The ReadCIS authors cannot advise you on constructing folders.
7.4.1.2
EXECUTIVE NEWS SERVICE SWITCHES
ENS1.OFF, ENS2.OFF, ENS3.OFF(Block access to a particular ENS folder.
Retrieval of articles from a particular Executive News Serive clipping folder can be prevented with an ENS1.OFF, ENS2.OFF or ENS3.OFF Switch. There is no need to block a folder that does not exist, if you only use one or two folders the script will detectg
this automatically. There is also no need to use these switches if you do not set the ENS.ON switch.
Use this switch to retrieve the Associated Press "Latest News Summary". Stories are saved as APO in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. APO will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additio
nal stories will not be retrieved until the APO file is deleted, archived or renamed. Stories are updated on the hour, the same stories may be retrieved if you check more often.
Use this switch to retrieve the Associated Press Sports "Scoreboard". Stories are saved as APSCORES in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. APSCORES will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], ande
additional stories will not be retrieved until the APSCORES file is deleted, archived or renamed.
7.4.2.3
GENERAL NEWS SERVICE SWITCHES
PAO3.ON, PAO6.ON, or PAO12.ON%Retrieve UK Press Association Stories
Use the PAO3.ON, PAO6.ON or PAO12.ON switch to retrieve the 3, 6 or 12 newest UK Press Association stories. Stories are saved as PAO in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. PAO will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS S
ervices toggle is [Off], and additional stories will not be retrieved until the PAO file is deleted, archived or renamed. Stories are added continuously and some stories may be duplicates.
7.4.2.4
GENERAL NEWS SERVICE SWITCHES
APFRANCE.ON-Retrieve Associated Press France News Summary
Use this switch to retrieve Associated Press France "Le point sur l'actualiti francaise" et "Le point sur l'actualiti internationaile". Stories are saved as APRANCE and APFINTL in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command.
APFRANCE will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additional stories will not be retrieved until the APFRANCE and APFINTL files are deleted, archived or renamed.
7.4.2.5
GENERAL NEWS SERVICE SWITCHES
AAP.ON1Retrieve Australian Associated Press News Summary
Use this switch to retrieve the Australian Associated Press "Highlights of the AAP National Wire". Stories are saved as AAP in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. AAP will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services tq
oggle is [Off], and additional stories will not be retrieved until the AAP file is deleted, archived or renamed.
7.4.2.6
GENERAL NEWS SERVICE SWITCHES
DPA.ON-Retrieve Deutsche Presse-Agentur News Summary
Use this switch to retrieve the Deutsche Presse-Agentur "Schlagzeilen". Stories are saved as DPA in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. DPA will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additioX
nal stories will not be retrieved until the DPA file is deleted, archived or renamed.
7.4.3.1
COMPUTER NEWS SERVICE SWITCHES
OLT.ON
Retrieve Online Today News
Use this switch to retrieve CompuServe's "Online Today" stories. Stories are saved as OLT in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. OLT will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additional sto
ries will not be retrieved until the OLT file is deleted, archived or renamed. Stories are updated daily, the same stories may be retrieved if you check more often.
7.4.3.2
COMPUTER NEWS SERVICE SWITCHES
MACBEAT.ON
Retrieve MacBeat Stories
Use this switch to retrieve "MacBeat" stories. Stories are saved as MACBEAT in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. MACBEAT will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additional stories will J
not be retrieved until the MACBEAT file is deleted, archived or renamed.
MacBeat is part of Ziffnet, and you must enroll online for access to this extra cost area before using this switch. The script may fail if you attempt to cross the CompuServe / Ziffnet frontier without enrolling.n
7.4.3.3
COMPUTER NEWS SERVICE SWITCHES
MACWEEK.ON
Retrieve MacWeek Stories
Use this switch to retrieve "MacWeek" stories. Stories are saved as MACWEEK in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. MACWEEK will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additional stories will J
not be retrieved until the MACWEEK file is deleted, archived or renamed.
MacWeek is part of Ziffnet, and you must enroll online for access to this extra cost area before using this switch. The script may fail if you attempt to cross the CompuServe / Ziffnet frontier without enrolling.
7.5.1
FINANCIAL SERVICE SWITCHES
QUOTES.ON
Retrieve financial quotations.
Use QUOTES.ON switch to retrieve security prices, market indexes and exchange rates for codes entered in Ticker Symbols name. Quotations are saved as QUOTES in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-Q> command. QUOTES will not b
e retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additional prices will not be retrieved until the QUOTES file is deleted, archived or renamed. =
7.6.1
WEATHER SERVICE SWITCHES
FORECAST.ON
Retrieves local weather report
Use this switch to retrieve the weather report for the CompuServe node where you are logged on. This switch will not retrieve a forecast when using the US toll-free "800" node, nor any supplementary network. The report is saved as FORECAST in the ReadCIS
SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. FORECAST will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additional reports will not be retrieved until the FORECAST file is deleted, archived or renamed.
7.6.2
WEATHER SERVICE SWITCHES
WEATHER1.ON&Retrieves weather report for one city.
Use this switch to retrieve a weather report for one city stored in the "Weather City" Name. The city name can be entered in ordinary English, such as "LONDON,UK". The report is saved as WEATHER in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the
<Psion-S> command. WEATHER will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS Services toggle is [Off], and additional reports will not be retrieved until the WEATHER file is deleted, archived or renamed.
AThe WEATHER1.ON and WEATHER2.ON switches cannot be used together.
7.6.3
WEATHER SERVICE SWITCHES
WEATHER2.ON,Retrieves weather report for several cities.
Use this switch to retrieve weather reports for a list of cities stored in the "Weather City" Name. The report is saved as WEATHER in the ReadCIS SERVICES directory, and can be read with the <Psion-S> command. WEATHER will not be retrieved if the ThreeCIS
Services toggle is [Off], and additional reports will not be retrieved until the WEATHER file is deleted, archived or renamed.
The city names must be entered in specific formats, and separated by semi-colons. Cities in the United States and Canada must include the two letter postal abbreviation (e.g. Miami, FL; Regina, SK). International cities require a four letter code. For a
partial list of codes use the ReadCIS <Help> facility, and read the "Service Names" topic. If you enter an unrecognized city, CompuServe will display a list of possible matches, which will be captured in the WEATHER file so that you can revise your We
ather Name before the next online session, but reports for cities listed after the incorrect one will not be captured, and the script may fail.
AThe WEATHER1.ON and WEATHER2.ON switches cannot be used together.(
FORUM SWITCHES
ReadCIS normally performs identical actions in all three forums. These switches allow individual settings for each forum, and are set separately for Forum1, Forum2 and Forum3. The switch names end with a numeral that corresponds to the forum where the s
etting applies.
7.7.1
FORUM SWITCHES
"FORUM1.OFF, FORUM2.OFF, FORUM3.OFF
Block access to a forum.FUse one of these switches to bypass a forum while visiting the others.
7.7.2
FORUM SWITCHES
"NOHIGH1.ON, NOHIGH2.ON, NOHIGH3.ON+Prevent update of forum High Message Number
CompuServe tracks which messages you have read in each forum with an online High Message Number, to prevent retrieving the same messages twice. Use these switches to suppress the update if, for example, you intend to retrieve the messages again with your!
PC after returning from a trip.
7.7.3
FORUM SWITCHES
%WAITING1.ON, WAITING2.ON, WAITING3.ON2Retrieve only new forum messages addressed to you.
ReadCIS normally retrieves all new forum messages in the selected sections. Use these switches to retrieve only unread messages addressed to your User ID, in a particular forum. CompuServe calls these "waiting messages".
To check only for "waiting messages" in all three forums, it is not necessary to use these switches. Instead, go online with <Psion-W> or <Shift-Psion-W>.
Your High Message Number is not updated when retrieving waiting messages; you can logon again later to retrieve all messages without missing any. (For example, you may wish to retrieve and reply only to messages addressed to you while travelling, then r=
etrieve complete threads with your PC when you return home.)
7.7.4
FORUM SWITCHES
"ONEDAY1.ON, ONEDAY2.ON, ONEDAY3.ON2Retrieve all messages posted in the last 24 hours.
ReadCIS normally retrieves all new forum messages in the selected sections. Use these switches to retrieve all messages posted in the last 24 hours, which may be more, or less, depending on how recently you have visited the forum. Set this switch when vis
iting a forum for the first time to sample the message base, or when you have been offline for several days to "catch up" with forum discussions.
7.7.5
FORUM SWITCHES
%GETFILE1.ON, GETFILE2.ON, GETFILE3.ON
Retrieve forum library files.
Use theses switches to download files from the forum libraries. When the script starts, a Query appears requesting the names of the files to retrieve. Type the complete name of each file. The name must be exactly correct, and cannot include the ? or * "w
ildcard" characters. Use the arrow keys to move between the lines, press <Enter> only when done. Pressing <Esc> exits the script. The retrieved file will be stored, with the same name, in the ReadCIS LIBRARY directory \CIS\LIBRARY\ on your default disk.
Although the Query allows you to specify one file per forum, a file will only be retrieved if the switch is set for that forum. If there are two or more files with identical names in the same forum, you may receive the wrong file. The script continues if
it cannot find the file, or if you leave the file name blank. If you attempt to download a text file, CIS issues a "wrong file type" message. The script recognizes this, and the file is downloaded correctly. The Getfile function fails if you do not hav"
e access to Library 1 in a forum.
7.8.1
INTERACTIVE SWITCHES
TERMINAL.ON(Set CompuServe to 80x20 or 80x24 screen.
ReadCIS normally sets CompuServe to use a 50x16 screen after the automated pass. Most CIS areas reformat to this size, allowing use of the largest font. Use this switch if you prefer a traditional 80 column screen, or to access areas that do not reformat..
This switch uses the second smallest font.
&NOBLANK.ON must also be set for 80x24.m
7.8.2
INTERACTIVE SWITCHES
NOBLANK.ON
Suppress blank lines.
Use this switch to display more information per screen by omitting empty lines. Helps prevent menu tops from scrolling off, but the screen can be difficult to read. This switch is effective only after the script has finished running, it does not change /
the spacing of retrieved messages or articles.
7.9.1.1 PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Session Log
LOG.ON
Record online session.
Use this switch to record an online session. This allows verification that messages were sent, and may aid in the diagnosis of script failures. The log is stored as "Readcis.log" in the \CIS\ARCHIVE\ directory on the default disk, and may be viewed with tL
he <Psion-V> Read Archives command. It is overwritten each online session.
7.9.1.2 PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Session log
SLEUTH.ON.Record online session with control characters.
You may be asked to use this switch to record all characters sent or received during an online session to aid in the diagnosis of a script failure. The log is stored as "Sleuth.cis" in the root directory on the default disk. It is overwritten each online2
session. This switch disables the LOG.ON switch.
7.9.2
PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Menu Mode
AUTOEXEC.ON
Bypass all script menus.
In Autoexec mode the script bypasses the ThreeCIS and Dialing menus, automatically using the number stored in the "Autoexec Number" Name. Online actions are determined by defaults and switches, there is no opportunity to view or set the ThreeCIS toggles.
If dialing fails in this mode, the script automatically redials five times, and displays an error message if it cannot connect.
RPlease become familiar with the script's online actions before trying this switch.
7.9.3.1!PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Menu Toggles
MAIL.ON
Forces Cismail toggle [On].
The Cismail toggle is normally [Off]. If there are messages in the MAIL Out Basket, the toggle automatically comes [On]. This switch changes the default to [On], and the toggle can still be changed from the ThreeCIS menu. This switch is only a convenienc2
e, it is not required to send or receive Cismail.
7.9.3.2!PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Menu Toggles
SERVICES.ON
Forces Services toggle [On].
The Services toggle is normally [Off]. This switch changes the default to [On], and the toggle can still be changed from the ThreeCIS menu. This switch is only a convenience, it is not required to retrieve news articles, weather reports or financial quot
ations.
7.9.3.3!PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Menu Toggles
FORUMS.ON
Forces Forums toggle [On].
The Forums toggle is normally [Off]. If there are messages in the FORUMS Out Basket, or if a GETFILE switch is set, the toggle automatically comes [On]. This switch changes the default to [On], and the toggle can still be changed from the ThreeCIS menu. Y
This switch is only a convenience, it is not required to send or receive forum messages.
7.9.4&PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Conflict Checking
QUIET.ON
Disable informational messages.
ReadCIS can display an Alert if certain incompatible switches are set. Use the QUIET.ON switch if you do not wish to be reminded of these conflicts.
7.9.5
PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Sounds
ALARM.ON
Enable beeps.
Use ALARM.ON switch to sound a single beep after completing the automated online session, and also to confirm successful address import with <Psion-Y> command.
7.9.6
PREFERENCE SWITCHES: File Width
WRAP80.ON)Retrieve files with 80 character columns.
ReadCIS normally sets CompuServe Mail to 40 characters and all other areas to 50 characters wide, because the resulting disk files wrap for easiest reading in Psion Word. Use the WRAP80.ON switch if you prefer to retrieve all files with 80 character colum.
ns, such as for transfer to another computer.
7.9.7 PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Mail Editor
WORD.ON3Use Word Processor with word wrap to create Cismail
Use WORD.ON switch to change the default CompuServe Mail editor to Word. Composing Cismail in word processor mode is convenient, because word wrap is implemented. However, after editing each message you MUST press <Psion-A> to "Save as Text" AND set "UW
se new file Yes" else the file will be saved in Word format and the upload will fail.
The better solution is to leave Text Editor as the default and to press <Shift-Psion-U> to use Word only when creating a long message which requires extensive editing.
7.9.8 PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Text Viewer
READER.ON, TEXTVIEW.ON, VR3A.ON
Set default text viewer.
Use a READER.ON, TEXTVIEW.ON, or VR3A.ON switch to set default text viewer to "Reader", "Textview", or a vertical reader for displaying service articles and forum messages. The viewer can still be changed with the <Psion-U> command, but these switches saM
ve the setting between sessions. Do not set more than one of these switches.
7.9.9&PREFERENCE SWITCHES: Script Extensions
USER.ON+Call a script at the end of automated pass.
Use this switch to run custom script modules. The first module must be named "3USER.SCO" and located in the \SCO\ directory on any disk. The final module should CALL the "\APP\READCIS\Logoff.sco" module to use ReadCIS's logoff or "Remain Online" procedu
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