Most computer systems recognize a break key as an interrupt request - interrupting command input or interrupting the display of data. Some computer systems will treat a control C character the same as a break key, but some don't. Break Key is a Desk Accessory which will emit a timed pulse of logic zero (line space or break key) over an asynchronous channel. The emission period can be controlled between the range of 80 milliseconds to 200 milliseconds. A typical period is ~160ms, so that is the default setting in the configuration.
When you first install Break Key, it will show you the default configuration which you may modify. If you want to view the configuration window again, hold the Option key down while selecting Break Key from the DA List.
I communicate with many different computer systems from my Mac, so I needed the ability to generate a break key from within the various terminal emulators that I use. Thus, the Break Key DA was written. I thought there may be other Mac users like me, so I wrote the DA with the intent to distribute it as shareware. If you find Break Key useful, please remit the meager amount that I have requested. I have spent many, many hours writing this software as shareware. It would have been a lot easier to bang out something quick and dirty that would have served my needs ! If you would like to see how a moderately complex DA is written - that handles resources, controls, dialogs, etc., pay the registration fee and add $2 or include a blank diskette and a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope, I'll send you the source code. It's written in LightSpeed C 3.0.
