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U1 TTTTTT HH HH EEEEEE TT HH HH EE TT HHHHHH EEEE TT HH HH EE TT HH HH EEEEEE EEEEEEEEEEEEEE 8888888888 8888888888 EEEEEEEEEEEEEE 88888888888888 88888888888888 EEE 888 888 888 888 EEE 888 888 888 888 EEEEEEEEEE 8888888888 8888888888 EEEEEEEEEE 8888888888 8888888888 EEE 888 888 888 888 EEE 888 888 888 888 EEEEEEEEEEEEEE 88888888888888 88888888888888 EEEEEEEEEEEEEE 8888888888 8888888888 TTTTTT EEEEEE XX XX TTTTTT TT EE X X TT TT EEEE XX TT TT EE X X TT TT EEEEEE XX XX TT EEEEEE DDDDD II TTTTTT OOOO RRRRR EE DD DD II TT OO OO RR RR EEEE DD DD II TT OO OO RRRRR EE DD DD II TT OO OO RR RR EEEEEE DDDDD II TT OOOO RR RR (C.) Copyright 1986 Microsystems Research and Engineering All rights reserved II PREFACE E88 was originally designed as an editor to write assembler language code but has since been enhanced into a full function text and programming editor. Since the public domain release of version 1.00, the editor has been revised five times including this version. E88 is short for editor in 8088 machine language. The editor is written in 100% assembler language which accounts for it's compact size and lighting fast speed. This editor was designed and written on an IBM PC and is intended solely for use on IBM and compatible machines. The goal of this editor is to provide a new concept in text editing. It does not use all of the complicated keyboard commands associated with many editors and word processors. The result is a very fast, natural, logical, and easy to learn user interface. Most of the editing functions of E88 are direct, one keystroke, commands. This editor uses the IBM keyboard the way it was intended to be used, not the way some "ported over" programs use it. The function keys are used heavily but in a logical and easy to remember fashion. The numeric keypad/cursor control keys provide text control as it should be provided, fast, versatile, and full featured. All complex file control and setup functions are accessed via a menu driven command window with helpful prompts, which are brief but informative. A help screen is also provided from the command window and provides an abbreviated list of the editor's direct functions. E88 also provides two types of supplemental setup/default files which allow the user to tailor it to his own taste and uses. The first file is a general purpose default file which is loaded automatically when the editor is executed. This file, named E88SETUP. DEF, can be used to override the editor's internal defaults for screen colors, tabs, programmed keys, and default filename extensions. The second file is a specific purpose file which applies only to the file being edited. It is named after the edit file and given the extension of PGR. This file is searched for and automatically loaded after the edit file is specified. This "PGR" file, if found, will override all of the parameters included in E88SETUP.DEF and also set the pagers to predefined screens that were saved by the user for the edit file. The pagers are one of the most unique features of E88 and are explained fully in the following documentation. Creating the default files is very easily done from the command/setup window. If you are familiar with older versions of E88, then you will be pleased with this new edition. The new features definitly make the program more useful than ever before. The basic simplicity of operation has been retained even with the additional power. If you are not familiar with E88, then prepare yourself for a surprisingly fresh, new approach to text editing. The speed and power provided by E88 is unmatched by any other editor in its class. You will be able to master the commands and functions of E88 in just a few minutes and retain this knowledge after only a couple of sessions. You'll never dread loading and running a text editor again as long as you have E88. III HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS E88 will run on the IBM PC/XT/AT/PCjr and all true compatibles. The general system requirements are outlined below. Memory .......... 64-640 Kb. The edit file size is a function of free memory. Operating sys. .. MS/PC DOS version 2.00 or later. Video ........... Standard color graphics or monochrome display adapters are supported. The display adapter is selected automatically on systems with only one adapter installed, but may be user selected using startup options on multiple adapter systems. Disk ............ All disk I/O is controlled through standard DOS function calls. Any valid path and filename may be used in the file specification. Files ........... E88 reads/produces standard ASCII text files with an optional tab compression mode. Standard ASCII files are the type required by most assemblers and compilers. Tab compression mode provides a method of compressing text files to preserve disk space while still retaining DOS compatibility. Printer ......... The printer output from E88 is standard ASCII text which should be acceptable to all printers. It should also be noted that no filtering is done on the text when it is sent to the printer. The user may specify any special codes such as escape codes directly on a line in the file and force the printer to do whatever he desires. Some special characters in the IBM extended character set (above ASCII 127) as well as some control characters (below ASCII 32) may not be acceptable to some printers and could cause unusual looking printouts. Note that many printers may be controlled by encoding the desired control characters in the file by adding 128 to the basic ASCII code. For example the BEL character would be ASCII 135 instead of ASCII 7 ie. 7+128=135 IV C O N T E N T S PREFACE ......................................................... II HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS ........................................... III (1.) STARTING E88.................................................. 1 Filenames .................................................. 1 Options .................................................... 1 Examples ................................................... 2 Indirect mode ............................................ 2 Direct mode .............................................. 2 Miscellaneous .............................................. 2 (2.) THE EDIT SCREEN .............................................. 4 Top line information ....................................... 4 The remainder of the screen ................................ 4 Miscellaneous .............................................. 4 (3.) PROGRAM CONTROL .............................................. 5 The numeric keypad ......................................... 5 [Up] [Dn] [Lt] [Rt] ... Cursor keys ...................... 5 [Pg Up] [Pg Dn] ...... Scrolling ........................ 5 [Home] [End] ......... Scroll 1 line .................... 5 [Ctrl] [Home] ........ Home cursor ...................... 5 [Ctrl] [End] ......... Cursor to end of line ............ 5 [Ctrl] [Pg Up] ....... Line to top of screen ............ 5 [Ctrl] [Pg Dn] ........ Recover the last edit screen ..... 5 [Ins] ................. Insert a character ............... 5 [Del] ................. Delete a character ............... 5 Word processing mode ..................................... 6 The function keys .......................................... 6 [F1] .................. Command window call .............. 6 [Alt] [F1] ............ Instant help ..................... 6 [F2] .................. Printer call ..................... 6 [Alt] [F2] ............ Alternate printer call ........... 6 [F3] [F4] [F5] [F6] [F7] [F8] ... Pagers ................. 6 [Alt] [F5] ............ Go to TOF ........................ 7 [Alt] [F6] ............ Go to EOF ........................ 7 [Alt] [F7] ............ Rep. Load buffer ................. 7 [Alt] [F8] ............ Load buffer ...................... 7 [F9] .................. Insert a line .................... 7 [Alt] [F9] ............ Change line attribute ............ 7 [F10] ................. Insert a line from buffer ........ 7 [Alt] [F10] ........... Delete a line .................... 7 [Ctrl] [F1-F10] ....... Programmable characters .......... 7 [ENTER] ............... Record screen / Reset tab cnt. ... 8 [Ctrl] [Enter] ........ Toggle auto-indent mode .......... 8 [Tab] ................. Tab the cursor ................... 8 [Shift] [Tab] ......... Set the tabs ..................... 8 Additional information on functions ...................... 9 Command modes .............................................. 9 (E.) END the edit and save this file ..................... 9 (B.) BACKUP (create filename.bak) ........................ 9 (C.) CHANGE the filename (for saving) .................... 10 (H.) HELP ................................................ 10 (L.) LOAD another file (with options) .................... 10 (S.) SEARCH and [replace] string ......................... 10 V (P.) PARAMETER setup colors, tabs, etc. .................. 10 Setup window sub commands ......................... 11 (A.) to (G.) .............. Color select .......... 11 (H.) ...................... Change default ext. ... 11 (I.) ...................... Program func. keys .... 11 Special supplemental information about setup files .. 11 (T.) TAB compression now xxx ............................. 12 (Q.) QUIT * RETURN TO DOS * NO SAVE ...................... 12 APPENDIX A - E88 program compatibility ............................ 13 Memory resident programs ..................................... 13 Prokey ..................................................... 13 Sidekick ................................................... 13 Non resident programs ........................................ 13 Assemblers / Compliers ..................................... 13 Communications programs .................................... 13 Operating system files ..................................... 14 Data base data files ....................................... 14 APPENDIX B - The E88 help screen .................................. 15 A printable reproduction ................................... 15 A note about the help screen ............................... 15 APPENDIX C - License / Warranty / Trademarks ...................... 16 License .................................................... 16 Warranty ................................................... 17 Trademarks ................................................. 17 APPENDIX D - Registration ......................................... 18 Why should I register ? .................................... 18 Registration fees .......................................... 19 Updating the Archive ....................................... 19 Registration form .......................................... 20 1 >> Section 1 << STARTING E88 E88 may be started either directly or indirectly from the DOS prompt. There are also several options available to the user at runtime. This section will discuss filenames and options needed to begin an editing session with E88. >> 1.1 << FILENAMES Standard DOS notation is acceptable. d: [path] filename [.ext] If no path is specified then E88 will use the default directory. If no filename extension is specified then E88 will use it's user definable internal default. If the desired file to be edited does not have an extension then 3 blanks should be entered for an extension. >> 1.2 << OPTIONS E88 supports several options which may be specified on the DOS command line at execution. They are listed below. The /B option: The /B option will eliminate "blanking" of the display when the screen is scrolled. This feature is useful on machines which have the newer display adapters. The user may determine if his computer will tolerate this feature by starting E88 using the /B option and looking for display 'fetches' (interference) when the screen is scrolled. This option only applies to color graphics adapters and has no effect on monochrome displays. The /C option: The /C option will force the video output to be directed to the color graphics display adapter. This option is useful when a system is equipped with two adapters. See also the /M option. The /M option: The /M option will force the video output to be directed to the monochrome display adapter. This option is useful when a system is equipped with two adapters. See also the /C option. The /T option: The /T option will cause the editor to toggle into tab compression mode. Unless the mode is changed from the command window the loaded file will be saved tab compressed. The /W option: The /W option will direct the editor to function in word processor mode. This mode is discussed in detail later in the manual. The /E option: The /E option will suppress the end of file marker being added to the end of a saved file. Although most programs accept this format some may not require the marker. 2 The /I option: The /I option will start the editor in auto-indent mode. The cursor will be tabbed to the first tab stop each time <ENTER> is pressed. This mode may be toggled on and off by pressing the key combination <Ctrl> <ENTER> while in edit mode. >> 1.3 << EXAMPLES >> 1.3.1 << INDIRECT MODE To start E88 in indirect mode simply enter E88 at the DOS prompt. The editor will be loaded and will prompt the user for the edit filename. Startup options must be specified at the DOS prompt. example: C>E88 /B Would execute E88 with screen blanking disabled and prompt the user for a filename. example: C>E88 /B/C/W Would execute E88 with screen blanking disabled, force the video output to the color graphics adapter, and place the editor in word processing mode. The user would then be prompted for a filename. >> 1.3.2 << DIRECT MODE To start E88 in direct mode, the filename must be specified on the command line. example: C>E88 MYFILE.DOC Would execute E88, which would then load MYFILE.DOC for editing. example: C>E88 MYFILE Would execute E88, which would then load MYFILE.(default ext.) example: C>E88 /B/W \JUNK\THAT_OLD.BAT Would execute E88, disable screen blanking, place the editor in word processing mode, and load the file THAT_OLD.BAT from the pathed directory JUNK. example: C>E88 BBSLIST.(enter three spaces for the extension) Would execute E88 and load the file BBSLIST no extension, for editing. >> 1.4 << MISCELLANEOUS Startup option letters as well as filename specifiers are NOT case sensitive. e88 /m myfile.dat would work just as well as e88 /M MyfiLE.dAT. The spacing and order are important however. CORRECT: E88 [/option] [d:]\[path]\filename[.ext] s s s b b p l p a a a a a c c c s c k k e h e s s l l a a s s h h 3 The /T and /I options are reversible after the editor is executed all others are not. 4 >> Section 2 << THE EDIT SCREEN This section outlines the edit screen. It provides information relating to the top line status and also provides information on interpeting the displayed text file >> 2.1 << TOP LINE INFORMATION FILENAME LINE COL FREE MODE COM KEY:[F1] current | text | cursor | 78 char. | current mode| just a reminder file | line#| column | lines free| EDIT etc. | for command mode The indicated line number represents the current line that the cursor resides on IN THE FILE being edited. A line consist of a screen line. example: > this is supposed to represent text on the E88 screen > text text text text text text more text etc.. on and on > new line of text across screen starts at arrow on left represents 3 lines of the text file - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - >> 2.2 << THE REMAINDER OF THE SCREEN The remainder of the screen contains the text file that is being edited and also contains a "> " ,nothing, or the letter "F " in the first two columns of the screen on each line. An arrow "> "means that this is the beginning of a new line. If the first two columns are blank, the line is an extension of the previous line. There is no limit on line length. It is the user's responsibility to insure that the length does not exceed that which is acceptable to the assembler or compiler that the text file is to be used with. The letter "F " in the left two columns indicates that this line is available but not in use. The appearance of the first line marked "F " is the physical end of file. Although it is possible to type on these free lines, any text present on these lines will not be saved to disk. This feature will allow the user to make notes on these lines if desired, however these notes will not be saved or reloaded. >> 2.3 << MISCELLANEOUS The path is not shown on the top line filename area, however selecting the change filename option (discussed later) will display the current path. Extended lines are counted as a line when refering to E88's line number or free lines remaining information. They are however saved to disk as being one complete line of text. example: > this represents a line of text on the E88 editor screen which is extended ( notice no arrow ) into this line * 2 lines to E88 but only one long line to the disk file. 5 >> Section 3 << PROGRAM CONTROL This section provides information regarding program control. It outlines the use of the numeric pad, function keys, tabs, enter, and programmable keys. >> 3.1 << THE NUMERIC KEYPAD The numeric keypad provides standard cursor as well as complete and extended screen control. [Up] [Dn] [Lt] [Rt] The four arrow keys provide cursor control as expected but also provide screen control. Whenever a cursor movement would cause the cursor to be positioned off the top or bottom of the screen an automatic screen scroll will occur. This includes end wrap for the left and right arrows as well as simply holding the up and down arrow keys to force a scroll. [Pg Up] [Pg Dn] The page up and page down keys will cause an immediate 24 line scroll to the preceeding or following page of text. [Home] [End] The home and end keys will cause a 1 line scroll up and down. [Ctrl] [Home] The key combination of [Ctrl] [Home] will home the cursor. [Ctrl] [End] This combination will place the cursor at the end of the current line. [Ctrl] [Pg Up] This combination will make the current line the new top of screen [Ctrl] [Pg Dn] This combination will recover the last screen that edit activity occured on. This feature allows the user to scroll or page all over the place and still instantly recover the last screen where a letter was typed. [Ins] Toggles the insert mode. The insert and delete character keys work exactly like they do in the BASIC program editor. The insert key toggles on and off. Insert mode is indicated by a "fat" cursor. When insert is enabled, characters will be inserted into the line at the current cursor position while all characters to the right are moved and wrapped around to the next line if necessary. The editor will also insert an extension onto the line if needed. The insert mode is toggled off with any screen or cursor movement including tabs with the exception of backspace. Backspace backs up and deletes the character leaving the program in insert mode just like BASIC. [Del] Deletes the character at current cursor position. 6 >> 3.1.1 << WORD PROCESSING MODE Word processing mode is entered by using the /W option on the command line. This feature in no way magically transforms E88 into a word processor. It merely changes some of the key assignments and functions. These changes are outlined below. The insert mode becomes a true toggle. Pressing the insert key will cause a "fat" cursor as described in the insert key function above, but the editor remains in insert mode even with cursor movement. There are only two ways to exit insert mode, they are, press the insert key again, or position the cursor past the end of the current line. This feature is similar to the insert scheme used by many popular word processors. The Home and End keys also function differently. Pressing the Home key will cause the cursor to move to the start of the current line. Pressing the End key will cause the cursor to move to the end of the current line. Pressing Ctrl Home and Ctrl End will cause a one line scroll, preserving the single line scroll feature of standard mode. >> 3.2 << THE FUNCTION KEYS [F1] F1 calls the main command menu window, discussed in detail later. [Alt] [F1] Alt. F1 provides instant on-line help. This method of calling the help screen by-passes the command window. Help is still available from the command window, maintaining compatibility with older versions and supporting the needs of novice users. [F2] F2 calls the printer !? Make sure the printer is on (if it isn't DOS will indicate the error). Place the cursor on the line where the printout is to start and press [F2]. The printer will print lines and the cursor will move and the screen will scroll until any key is pressed or the end of file is reached. The cursor indicates the line currently being printed. Termination of the print will restore the screen and cursor to their previous positions. * Extended lines will be added together and printed just as if they were one long line. * New feature of ver. 4.00 [Alt] [F2] This key combination causes the same action as described above except that the arrows are printed. [F3] [F4] [F5] [F6] [F7] [F8] F3 through F8 are called pagers. Pressing these keys will cause the text to scroll instantly to a page that has been preset by the user. To preset the page for each key, simply scroll to the desired page, hold the shift key down, and press F3 to F8. That key is then set to the displayed page and will return to that point from anywhere in the text. These keys will remain set until reset, which can be done as often as necessary. Upon startup the pager keys are set up to split the file into equal parts. [F3] points at the first page and [F8] points at the last page in the file with all others equally spaced in between. This feature allows rapid access to any area in the file. This feature may be overridden by the PGR default file however. For more imformation about the PGR file see the setup mode section. 7 [Alt] [F5] This key combination will cause the editor to instantly locate on Line 0, Row 1, Col 2, of the file being edited. It is denoted as the Go to TOF command. [Alt] [F6] This is the Go to EOF command. The logic behind this command constantly keeps track of the current EOF even with changes in file length. When this key combination is pressed the editor will locate the cursor on Col 2 of the last line in the file. [Alt] [F7] This is the repeat load buffer command. This command is identical to the [Alt] [F8] command below except that the cursor is not moved down to the next line. Audible feedback is provided to verify the command was executed. This command is useful when a line needs to be duplicated several times. An example is the many 'DB' Pseudo-ops used in an assembly language data segment. [Alt] [F8] This is the load buffer command key combination. When this command is issued, the line that the cursor is on will be loaded into a 32 line buffer. The cursor will then move to the next line down, which, if the user desires, may also be loaded. Up to 32 lines may be stored in this manner and recovered with the [F10] key. The use of this command in combination with the [F10] key may used to do a block copy of up to 32 lines at a time. [F9] F9 will insert a line into the text directly above the line that the cursor is on when the key is pressed. [Alt] [F9] This key combination will toggle the attribute of the current line. It will change an extended line into a new line or a new line into an extended line. This can be used to seperate or join lines in the file. [F10] This key will automatically insert a line of text which has been saved in the 32 line buffer. The insert will occur at the current cursor position in the same manner that the [F9] key effects an insert. Lines may be saved into the buffer by the [Alt] [F8] load buffer command or by the [Alt] [F10] delete line command. [Alt] [F10] This key combination is the delete line command. When this command is used the current line will be deleted from the screen and the file will scroll up to fill the vacated space. The deleted line is not lost forever however, it is placed in a 32 line circular buffer. The last 32 deleted lines may be recovered by simply pressing [F10] after positioning the cursor at the desired insert position. Using the key sequences of [Alt] [F10] and [F10] in combination can be used to move a block of text (up to 32 lines at a time) from one place in the file to another. [Ctrl] [F1-F10] These key combinations print a special character which has been preprogrammed by the user for the particular function key. The programming of these keys is discussed later in the setup window instructions. The default character set for these keys is the set of line graphics characters. 8 [ENTER] The enter key is used much as with any other editor. When typing in text, hitting [ENTER] will cause the cursor to move to the start of the next line, inserting a line if it is at the end of file. [ENTER] also resets the tabs and records in memory the current text screen. There is one difference with this editor to many others including the Microsoft BASIC program editor. It is NOT necessary to press [ENTER] to insure that your screen changes have been preserved. The program logic automatically detects a screen change and records the new screen. This prevents the old BASIC problem of forgetting to press [ENTER] and having to re-type a change. [Ctrl] [ENTER] The key combination of [Ctrl] [ENTER] will toggle the editor's auto-indent mode. When in auto-indent mode the cursor is automatically tabbed to the first tab stop. This process is essentially identical to pressing [ENTER] and [TAB] in sequence. [Tab] The tab key tabs the cursor to the user preset tabs. [Shift]*[Tab] This key combination of shift and the tab key will set a tab on the screen. E88 supports 20 tab positions which can be set to function in almost any manner imaginable. To set the tabs: (1.) Press [ENTER] (this clears the tab count) *** See note 1 ! (2.) Move the cursor to the desired tab position. (3.) Hold down a shift key and press the tab key. (4.) Tab 1 is now set and the next tab is ready to be set. (5.) Repeat this procedure until the speaker beeps if desired. More on the tab function : 1. To set the first tab, which is the position that the cursor will move to when in auto indent mode, the editor must be NOT be in auto indent mode. This is because the cursor will automatically be tabbed by the [ENTER] key and the tab count WILL NOT be cleared. The tabs MAY be set when the editor is in auto-indent mode, however the user should be aware that the tab count will start with the second tab. For more information about auto- indent mode see [Ctrl] [ENTER] in this section. 2. The speaker will beep when the 20th tab is set. When the speaker beeps this indicates that the count is about to start over at the first tab. The tab function on both tabbing and setting the tabs is a rollover procedure. When the last tab is reached then the program will start over with the first tab again. There is no beep during normal tabbing, 3. The tabs can be set in any order desired. The cursor does not have to tab from left to right. For example 38,24,36,5,10,15,38, 24,36,71,... is a perfectly legal tab setup. The default tab setup is a repeating sequence of 2,12,22,42,2,12,22,42,2,12,22,42 and so on. 9 4. Any tab can be set at any time. Simply clear the tab count by pressing [ENTER]. Tab the cursor normally with the tab key while counting the number of tabs. When the desired tab is reached, position the cursor on the proper column and perform step 3 above. *** See note 1 if setting tabs in auto-indent mode. 5. The tab setup is saved within the setup file E88SETUP.DEF which is discussed later in the command mode section. To save the tab setup, the user must go into setup mode. (See command mode option "P.") Alphanumeric keys: Type as usual. >> 3.2.1 << ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON FUNCTIONS The circular buffer referred to in the previous function descriptions is used as temporary storage area for deleted and saved lines. The buffer is always available to accept 32 new lines. Circular implies that the last 32 lines either saved or deleted may always be recovered from the buffer. The lines are stored using "last in - first out" or "STACK" logic. Mini-Merge .... Another use for the buffer The circular buffer contents may be transfered from one file to another. The user may load the circular buffer with information from a file, select the (L.) option from the command window, load a new file, and dump the buffer contents into the new file. This feature is great for copying a small subroutine or a couple of paragraphs from one file to another. >> 3.3 << COMMAND MODES Pressing function key [F1] will call E88's command window. The command mode will allow the user to save, backup, or exit from editing as well as setup the editor defaults. The following information is provided to serve as a guide to the command mode functions. [Esc] The escape key will return to edit mode. (E.) END the edit and save this file This command will save the file to the drive and filename displayed in the upper left corner of the screen. The program will return to DOS when the save is complete. (B.) BACKUP (create filename.bak) This command will create a backup file using the displayed filename (as above) but with the extension of BAK. This command can be used as often as necessary during the edit to insure that a loss of power or other unthinkable event would not cause a loss of data. Note that no backup file is automatically produced as with EDLIN. 10 (C.) CHANGE filename (for saving) This command allows the user to save a file under a different name. This is useful in cases where a standard format is used to set up a source file. The user can load the standard file, change the name, and save the edited file without effecting the standard load file. When pressed, the current file specification will be displayed. The user may then press [ENTER] to return with no change or enter the new file specification. (H.) HELP This command provides a quick reference to most of the key functions as well as some very important program information. Press the escape key to return to editing. (L.) LOAD another file (with options) This command allows the user to load and edit another file without leaving the editor. The current file may be saved or discarded. See section 3.2.1 for information about how to use the (L.) command to merge data between files. (S.) SEARCH and [replace] string When this command is selected the user will be prompted for the search and replace strings. The strings may be up to sixteen characters in length. The search will begin at the current line position in the file and continue until the string is found or any key is pressed. If the string is found the screen containing the find will be displayed and the cursor will be positioned on the first character of the string. The user may then press [space] to skip and continue, [ENTER] to replace the string and continue, or [Esc] to end the search. Entering a null string in response to the search string prompt will cause the command to be terminated. Entering a null string for the replace string is OK however, since replacing with a null string simply deletes the search string from the file. Audible feedback is provided to the user during the search process and all information concerning the search is displayed on the top line. Pressing any key while the search is in progress will end the search. (P.) PARAMETER setup colors, tabs, etc. This command allows the user to setup the program default parameters. When this command is selected, a setup window will replace the command window. This window will present the user with a number of keys which will change the program parameters. If the user so desires, two setup files can be created from the setup window. Pressing Enter will create the file E88SETUP.DEF in the CURRENT directory. This file contains the set of colors, tabs, special characters, and the default extension that were in effect at the time of the save. Another file, "filespec".PGR may also be created from the setup window. Pressing Ctrl. Enter will create a file which is named for the edit file but given the extension of PGR. This file will reside in the same directory as the edit file and will be pathed to that directory automatically by E88. The PGR file is a special file associated only with the edit file. It contains all of the information in E88SETUP.DEF and also contains the currently set pagers when it was saved. 11 >> SETUP WINDOW SUB-COMMANDS << The following commands are accessable from the SETUP window and are sub-commands of the PARAMETER command. To reach these commands the user must select the (P.) option from the MASTER COMMAND WINDOW. (A.) to (G.) Setup window sub-commands These are the color select keys. The colors they effect are noted in the SETUP window when it appears on the screen. Each time a color select key is pressed, the color will change on the screen in the sequence of black, blue, green, cyan, red, magenta, yellow and white. Foreground and border colors will provide 16 increments of this sequence with the last 8 increments being the high intensity color set. Background colors increment 8 times. When the sequence is complete it repeats. When using E88 on a monochrome display adapter it will be necessary for the user to press the setup keys many times to effect a change. This is due to the limited number of attributes that the adapter is capable of displaying. The border color select option is also not functional when using a monochrome adapter. (H.) Setup window sub-command When the `H' option is selected, the window will be cleared and the user will be prompted for a new filename extension. A new extension must then be entered. The extension must consist of 3 characters although any three may be used including blank characters. Refer to the DOS manual for information regarding valid filename extensions. The new extension will be saved only if the program setup is saved from the main setup window. (I.) Setup window sub-command Selecting option `I' will open a setup window allowing the user to program the 10 function keys for special characters. The prompt will display the currently defined character for that key and request a new character be entered. The user may then enter the character or simply press [ENTER] to leave the character unchanged. The program will cycle through all ten characters and then return to the setup window. >> SPECIAL SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE SETUP FILES << This information is presented to allow the user to understand the loading process used by E88 so that the setup files may be used to their maximum advantage. Since some confusion and complaints were acknowledged with older versions of E88 it was felt that a complete description of this process should be provided. Please note that it is no longer necessary to create an E88SETUP.DEF file in each sub- directory to get the needed color changes. The E88SETUP.DEF file that resides in the root directory now serves as a master setup file. When E88 is executed it first searches the ROOT directory of the current drive for the file E88SETUP.DEF. If this file is found the editor will set it's internal parameters to those specified by this file. Thus, the user may create an E88SETUP.DEF file in the root directory of his disk and allow that file to serve as a MASTER setup file. This eliminates the need to put a setup file in each sub- directory just to get the screen colors to suit your taste. 12 Next, E88 searches the CURRENT directory for the file E88SETUP. DEF. If found then it sets it's parameters to those specified by this file. This will allow the user to create many setup files, one in each sub-directory, such that he can use the editor to do many different task without needing to reset the tabs, colors, or the default extension. An example would be to put a setup file in the communications directory that makes the default extension .DOC or .DAT and put one in the directory where "C" programming is done that sets the tabs up for indenting lines. There are dozens of places where these extra setup files may be useful. Next the edit file is prompted for or loaded, depending on the startup method used. And finally E88 searches for a file with the same name as the edit file but with the extension .PGR. This file, if found will again override all the previous parameters and set the pagers to the values they had when the .PGR file was created. The .PGR file is saved and searched for in the same directory that the edit file resides in. This file is mainly used for debugging source code since a programmer can set the pagers to areas in the edit file where he is working. After exiting the editor he may then reload the editor later and instantly page to these preset areas. If none of these files is found then E88 uses its' internal defaults. (T.) TAB compression now xxx This command toggles tab compression mode on and off. The current state of tab compression mode is displayed right on the screen in the command itself. ie. TAB compression now OFF. Pressing the "T" key will toggle this state. Tab compression compresses the file by using a process of imaginary tab stops in the disk file. E88 will automatically turn tab compression on and off when a file is loaded depending on whether tab characters are detected in the file. This method of file compression is completely compatible with MS-DOS. The DOS "TYPE" command will properly expand and display a tab compressed file for example. One reccommended use for tab compression is for electronic mail files. Since most "E" mail and BBS programs will expand tab compressed files properly, the use of this mode will reduce file size, and hence, upload time. Since the process is reversible, E88 may be used to expand or compress any text file and save it in the format desired. WARNING: Tab compression is not recommended for program source code since most compilers will not expand the inserted tab characters in data definitions. If you do save a source file using tab compression, DON'T PANIC the process may be reversed by reloading the file with E88, manually turning tab compression off and then saving the file. All general text files may be saved using tab compression however, and a fair savings in disk space can be expected. (Q.) QUIT * RETURN TO DOS * NO SAVE This option allows the user to return to D.O.S. without saving the file. When this option is selected the user may then press [Esc] to return to D.O.S or any other key to return to editing. 13 >> APPENDIX A << E88 PROGRAM COMPATIBILITY This information is provided for users who desire to use E88 in combination with, or as a supplement to, other MS-DOS applications. The information provided here was compiled primarily from user input. M.R.E. software request that all users who discover new uses for E88 or encounter compatibility problems when using the editor with other programs, please drop us a note. Include as much data as possible about how the program(s) work, or don't work, together. >> A.1 << MEMORY RESIDENT PROGRAMS >> A.1.1 << ProKey (R) If you are a ProKey user you must either suspend ProKey, so that all aspects of E88 will be functional, or if you desire, you can set up a specific macro set that allows the E88 function keys to work normally. Invoking E88 can then be done from a batch file that initiates your desired macro set as well as E88. Of course, when through with E88, your same batch file can restore your usual macro set. >> A.1.2 << SideKick (R) E88 works well with SideKick. The only reported problem is a slight loss of speed in cursor movement and screen scrolling. This is thought to be due to SideKick's sampling of the keyboard input in search of it's calling sequence. As one user described it, "Its like swapping from your warp engines back to impluse drive". >> A.2 << NON RESIDENT PROGRAMS >> A.2.1 << ASSEMBLERS / COMPILERS There have been no problems reported using E88 with any assembler or compiler. Several of the more popular programs that programmers report using the editor with are listed below. Microsoft MASM 4.00 (R) (C) Copyright Microsoft corp. Microsoft C Compliler " " " Microsoft Pascal compiler " " " Microsoft QuickBASIC compiler (R) " " " Borland Turbo Pascal (R) (C) Copyright Borland International Ashton Tate Dbase III (C) Ashton Tate (command language files only) >> A.2.2 << COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAMS Because of its small size and ease of use, E88 is widely used as the editor to match with ProComm (C) Copyright Datastorm Technologies Inc. Since the editor produces standard ASCII output it may be used to create and edit electronic message or text files for use with any communications package. Note that the tab compressed mode may be used with many "E" mail and BBS systems. The savings in file size and upload time could go a long way toward paying the E88 registration fee. 14 >> A.2.3 << OPERATING SYSTEM FILES E88 is 100% MS/PC DOS compatible. It is excellent for creating and maintaining .BAT and .SYS files. >> A.2.4 << DATA BASE DATA FILES DO NOT attempt to edit a data base record file with E88 without first making a backup. Although E88 is fine for editing the programming language for most data bases it is not compatible with the record files. E88 terminates a line when the last non-blank character occurs. Most data base programs use FIXED LENTH records and fill in the lines with blank characters. These files should be edited with the data base itself, not a text editor, since a change in the length in only one record will render the file useless ! If you are in doubt about the editor being compatible with any file MAKE A BACKUP FIRST !!! 15 >> APPENDIX B << THE E88 HELP SCREEN This appendix contains a printable reproduction of the E88 help screen for version 4.00. It may be printed out and used as a quick reference card. When editing with E88 the help screen may be called using either [Alt] [F1] or the command window option (H.). >> B.1 << A PRINTABLE REPRODUCTION Esc.to return * E88 version 4.00 abbreviated help menu * Esc.to return ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Function keys | Ctrl.- Function | Shift-Function| Alt.- Function | | | F1 = Comm. Window| F1 = spec. char.| F1 = No action| F1 = Instant help F2 = Printer call| F2 = spec. char.| F2 = No action| F2 = Print+arrows F3 = TOF / Pager | F3 = spec. char.| F3 = Set pager| F3 = No action F4 = Call pager | F4 = spec. char.| F4 = Set pager| F4 = No action F5 = Call pager | F5 = spec. char.| F5 = Set pager| F5 = Go to TOF F6 = Call pager | F6 = spec. char.| F6 = Set pager| F6 = Go to EOF F7 = Call pager | F7 = spec. char.| F7 = Set pager| F7 = Rep.buf.load F8 = EOF / Pager | F8 = spec. char.| F8 = Set pager| F8 = Load buffer F9 = Insert line | F9 = spec. char.| F9 = No action| F9 = Toggle attr. F10= Ins. buffer | F10= spec. char.| F10= No action| F10= Delete line ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Pg Up = Scroll to above page /W S| Shift Tab = Set a tab position Pg Dn = Scroll to below page |---W|-Ctrl. Home = Home cursor Home = Scroll one line back -^ |-I|-Ctrl. End = End of line End = Scroll one line ahead --^ T| Ctrl. Pg Up = Make the line TOS Ins. = Insert mode on C| Ctrl. Pg Dn = Last active screen Del. = Delete the character H| Ctrl. cursor = Word left & right Enter = Save screen and reset tabs | Ctrl. Enter = Toggle auto-indent ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Help support this software. Register your copy. See DOC file for info. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- >> B.2 << A NOTE ABOUT THE HELP SCREEN The /W S W I T C H indicates that these key functions are reversed when the editor is started using the /W option. See word processing mode for more details about the /W option. 16 >> APPENDIX C << LICENSE / WARRANTY >> C.1 << LICENSE E88 version 4.00 is being distributed under the "shareware" or user supported concept. This software is NOT free software. The use or reproduction of this software outside of the limits specified in this license agreement is prohibited. Non-registered users are granted a limited licence to use this software for a period not to exceed thirty days. During this period they should test and evaluate the software to determine if it will meet their needs. The use of this program beyond this limited time period requires registration. Non-registered users are not allowed to distribute this software without the express written permission of Microsystems Research & Engineering. The only exceptions to this distribution restriction are SYSOPS of electronic bulletin boards and distributors of public domain and user supported software. SYSOPS and software distributors must abide by the copying restrictions specified below. Registered users are granted the right to use E88 on only one computer at any time. Site licensing agreements are available for businesses, corporations, and government agencies. Write MRE software for more details. Registered users are also granted the right to copy and distribute E88 subject to the following conditions. E88 must be copied in its original unmodified form with the exception that the serial number of the distributor may be be changed to the new distributor's serial number. This exception only applies to registered users, SYSOPS who are not registered users must not alter the files in any manner. All of the files must be included in the copy. No fee or charge may be requested or paid to any licensee by the recipient of the copy. MRE software will however pay the licensee a distribution commission if any of his serial numbered copies are subsequently registered. In the event that a licensee's copy is granted a site license to a business, the licensee will receive a 10% commission based on the site license charge. E88 may not be distributed in conjunction with any other product without the express written consent of MRE Software. 17 >> C.2 << WARRANTY Microsystems Research and Engineering makes no warranty of any kind, express or implied, including without limitation, any warranties of merchantability and or fitness for a particular purpose. Microsystems Research and Engineering shall not be liable for any damages, whether direct, indirect, special or consequential arising from a failure of this program to operate in the manner desired by the user. Microsystems Research and Engineering shall not be liable for any damage to data or property which may be caused directly or indirectly by use of the program. IN NO EVENT WILL Microsystems Research and Engineering BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING ANY LOST PROFITS, LOST SAVINGS OR OTHER INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF YOUR USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE PROGRAM, OR FOR ANY CLAIM BY ANY OTHER PARTY. >> C.3 << TRADEMARKS IBM, IBM PC/XT/AT/PCjr and PC-DOS are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation. Microsoft, Microsoft BASIC, MS-DOS, and Microsoft Macro Assembler are registered trademarks of Microsoft Inc. ProComm is a registered trademark of Datastorm Technoligies Inc. Other tradenames are referenced where they occur. 18 >> APPENDIX D << REGISTRATION >> D.1 << WHY SHOULD I REGISTER ? E88 is distributed under the shareware concept. Shareware is a unique marketing concept born of the computer revolution. Users are allowed to obtain complete working programs to freely test and evaluate for a limited time period. If they find the programs useful then they are required to register their copy of the program. The small registration fee goes to support the authors and encourage them to continue to improve the software. Shareware depends on honesty. The computer programs are freely distributed as finished products. The authors of this type of program depend completely on the honesty of end users for compensation for their work. If you use a shareware program, any shareware program, please be honest and register your copy. Shareware is not free software. It requires just as much work and effort to produce as the highly advertised commercial products, but it usually sells for a small fraction of the price. With the introduction of version 4.00, MRE Software, the publisher of E88, is offering to reward registered users for their honesty. We are offering distributor status to all users who register their copy of our program. What this means is that we will pay a commission of $5.00 for each copy of E88 that is registered under the serial number of the user. When you register your copy of E88 you will be issued an official serial number by return mail. You may then replace the serial number on the registration form in this .DOC file with your own, and re-distribute the program. Then when we receive subsequent registration forms containing your serial number, you will be awarded a commission fee of five United States dollars paid by check on a monthly basis. MRE Software has instituted this distributor program because we strongly desire to promote the distribution of E88 and increase our registered user base. This is obviously not some new kind of "get-rich -quick" scheme, it is strictly business. There is no "pyramid" or "chaining" in effect here, you will receive a straight commission based on the distribution of your copy only. We are simply offering a computer program, itself well worth the registration fee, and giving users the incentive to further distribute it. If you distribute your copy to your friends, or upload it to a local BBS, then there is a chance that you could recover some, all, or maybe even profit from registering E88. In any case you will have your own registered copy of the editor, and receive priority support from MRE. There is one more point about our registration / distributor concept that you may be thinking about; our honesty. We guarantee that all commission fees will be paid. We know that anyone can test our system by simply registering a copy with a known serial number and checking to see if the fee is paid. We are not about to risk our intregity (or freedom) by cheating a valued customer out of his $5.00. If you are honest with us, we will be honest with you. 19 >> D.2 << REGISTRATION FEES The registration fee for E88 version 4.00 is only $25.00. This is one of the more resonably priced editors available anywhere. This fee also gives the user distributor status, allowing him the possibility to recover his investment. We know of no comparable commericial product that offers so much, for so little, to so many! In keeping with our policy of priority support to registered users, we are offering previously registered users a special invitation to become a distributor for only $10.00. If you are a registered user, you should have received a letter containing an official serial number by the time this version is released. To activate the serial number, fill out the registration form and indicate your user status in the place provided. Mississippi residents must add 6% sales tax. >> D.3 << UPDATING THE ARCHIVE After registering your copy of E88 you will want to change the serial number on the form below to your new serial number sent to you by MRE. To do this, just edit the E88.DOC file so that it contains your serial number, save it using the (E.) End command, and update the archive. The command is ARC U E88-V4.ARC E88.DOC E88-V4.ARC is the filename that was selected to distribute this program, however some Sysops prefer to use simply E88.ARC. 20 >> D.4 << REGISTRATION FORM This section contains the E88 registration form. It is meant to provide users with a convenient means to register. You may fill out the form right on your screen and print it using E88. Thank you for your support. Send your registration request to: MRE Software 150 Jones St. West Point, Ms. 39773 To print, place the cursor on the next line and press [F2]. REGISTRATION FORM YES! I would like to register my copy of E88. I have read the information contained in appendix C and D as well as tested the software and would like to support the efforts of MRE software and obtain my distributor number. SERIAL NUMBER OF DISTRIBUTOR : 0101549B5D Name .............: Street Address ...: City .............: State ............: Zip Code .........: Place an X by those that apply. _ I am enclosing $25.00 for first time registration. _ Registered user enclosing $10.00 to become a distributor. *** The following info is optional. Answer only those you wish.*** Company/Title ............: Age ......................: Where did you obtain E88? : Computer type/brand ......: Printer ..................: Monitor ..................: What do you use E88 for ? : _ Programming _ General editing _ Other If other please explain: I have the following comments / suggestions about E88: END OF USABLE SPACE