CompuShow 2000! is a program for viewing graphics on IBM compatible computers. The instructions for using the program are a combination of Help screens and program documentation. You access a help screen by pressing F1 at any point where you want a brief explanation of whatever you're currently working on. The program documentation is accessed (for reading on the screen or printing to your printer or a disk file) from the Help/Documentation menu. I
Tab to a topic and press Enter. Press ESC to put this help screen away.
Using
File Window Options Setup Help
Help
Help
Documentation
About
Help
Index
Using Help
What you're reading right now is a "Help screen". Press F5 or click the zoom icon
in the upper-right corner to Zoom it to full screen. When the text of any help screen extends beyond the window, you'll see a slider on the scroll bar at the right side and can scroll with the cursor arrows or by clicking on the scrollbar or dragging the slider with a mouse: z
Up arrow
Page Up
Slider
Page Down
Down Arrow
Left
Right
Arrow
Arrow
Page
Page
Left
Right
You know that you've seen all of a help screen if there is no slider on the right scroll bar (it all fits on one screen) or if the slider has reached the bottom of the right scroll bar (you've reached the end of the help text). To see how this works, scroll through this text until you reach the end, which says "End of Using Help". T
Most Help screens have some highlighted items ("keywords") that lead to other screens. For example the two items below lead to the help index and to the screen describing the help menu. Use the tab key to move from one keyword to another, then press Enter to choose that item. Double-click a Help keyword to choose that item with a mouse.
Help
Index Help
Help screens generally (this one is an exception) have a keyword at the very top which takes you back to the previous screen, so as you select keywords to step down into more detailed help screens, you can also step back up to the top (the Help Index).
When you're finished with help, press ESCape or Alt+F3 or click on the close icon
in the upper-left corner to close the help window.
End of Using Help
Help
Documentation
Read all the program documentation on the screen and/or print it on your printer.
Help
About
Information about this program.
File
window F3
Drive F2
Copy Alt+C
Move Alt+M
Rename Alt+R
Erase Alt+E
Tag F7
Make
directory
Remove
directory
Shell
Exit Alt+X
Help
Index
File
New window
Opens a new file window on the specified drive.
File
Drive
Select the letter of a disk drive.
File
Copy the current
file(s) to a different
window. The original file(s) remain in the current window and are duplicated in the second window. You may also drag the file(s) with the left mouse button.
(related command: Move).
File
Move the current
file(s) to a different
window. A duplicate copy of the file(s) are made in the second window. If the copy is successful (you didn't run out of room, etc.), the original file is erased from the current window. You may also drag the file(s) with the right mouse button.
(related command: Copy).
File
Rename
Change the name(s) of the current
file(s). To change the name of a single file, just enter the new name (such as "NEWNAME.FIL"). To change the names of a group of tagged files, you'll need to enter a mask containing wildcards. For example:
TAGGED FILES MASK RENAMED TO
sample.doc
sample.bak
another.doc
*.bak
another.bak
more.doc
more.bak
command.com
comsys.com
autoexec.bat
???sys.*
autsys.bat
config.sys
consys.sys
File
Erase
Erases (removes) the current
file(s) from your disk.
File
This command lets you tag or untag files according to a mask (eg. *.* means all files) or you may press the + key or right-double-click to tag or untag individual files. Tagged files have a checkmark
following the name.
File
Make directory
Create a new directory by entering a valid
name for it.
File
Remove directory
Removes the focused (highlighted) directory. You can't remove "." (this directory) or ".." (which points to the directory above this one). Also, you can't remove a directory which contains files or other directories, and you can't remove the current (logged) directory.
File
DOS Shell
Leave the program temporarily to perform a DOS command or run another program. 9
To return to this program, type EXIT at the DOS prompt.
File
Quit this program.
"different window"
You may Copy or Move files from one window to a second window. The second window must be open on a different drive or directory.
"current file(s)"
Copy, Move, Rename, and Erase use the focused (highlighted) file. These commands only work on files, not <dir> directories or <vol> the volume label. Also, if the focused file is tagged, all tagged files are processed.
"Valid Name" B
Valid file and directory names have to follow certain DOS rules: J
Names may contain letters and numbers and ONLY THESE special characters: !
_ ^ $ ~ ! # % & - { } ( ) @ ' `
(Therefore, they MUST NOT contain spaces, commas, etc.)
They can have one to eight characters in the "base name", and an optional period and up to three characters in the "extension". #
You can't use the reserved names: I
CLOCK$ CON AUX NUL
COM1 COM2 COM3 COM4
LPT1 LPT2 LPT3 PRN
A directory can't have duplicates. So, assuming you already have a file named "ABC.1": O
copying a file named "ABC.1" to that directory will REPLACE the existing file 8
an attempt to rename another file to "ABC.1" will fail 8
an attempt to make a directory named "ABC.1" will fail
Of course, you may have a file named "ABC.1" in any number of DIFFERENT directories, but it can't appear more than once in the same directory.
Select a different
window as the destination to Copy or Move the current
file(s).
Confirm
Click the mouse or press Tab to move the focus and then press Enter to select Okay or Cancel. M
You're asked to confirm any Copy, Move, Rename, Erase, or Remove
directory.
Okay
If you choose Okay, the dialog
box is put away and the action is performed.
(related button: Cancel)
Cancel
If you choose Cancel the dialog
box is put away and no action occurs. (Esc always cancels a dialog box, even if there's no Cancel button.)
(related button: Ok)
Window
Standard window elements include a title
bar, scroll
bars, close and zoom icons. k
Overlap
Tile
Cascade
Next F6
Previous Shift+F6
List
Size/Move Ctrl+F5
Zoom F5
Close Alt+F3
Close
all
Help
Index
Window
Title
Windows with numbers 1-9 allow you to select the window by holding down the Alt key and typing the window number. Move a window by dragging the title bar with the mouse.
Window
Vertical and horizontal scroll bars allow you to scroll windows as you would with the keyboard by clicking the mouse (or dragging the slider). z
Up arrow
Page Up
Slider
Page Down
Down Arrow
Left
Right
Arrow
Arrow
Page
Page
Left
Right
Window
close zoom
icon icon
resize
corner
Window
Overlap
Overlapped Windows
(see also: Tile, Cascade)
Window
Tiled Windows
(see also: Overlap, Cascade)
Window
Cascade
Cascaded Windows
(see also: Overlap, Tile)
Window
Cycle forward through the windows on the desktop.
Window
Previous
Cycle backward through the windows on the desktop.
Window
Switch to a different window by selecting from a list of all open windows.
Window
Size/Move
This command lets you move a window with the arrow keys and change the size of a window by pressing Shift along with the arrow keys. Press Enter when you've finished adjusting its size and position. y
You can also move a window by dragging its title
bar with the mouse, and change its size by dragging the Resize
corner.
Window
Choose Zoom to resize the active window to the maximum size. If the window is already zoomed, you can choose this command to restore it to its previous size. You can also click the Zoom icon or double-click on the window's title bar.
Window
Close
Closes the active window. You may also click the Close icon.
Window
Close All
Closes all open windows.
Options
Directory
Screen
Graphics
Help
Index
Options
Directory
Directory Options affect all file windows.
Directory Options
[ ] Show
Hidden/System
File
Masks
Sort
By Display
Case
( ) Name ( ) Lower Case
( ) Extension ( ) Upper Case
( ) Size
( ) Date/Time
Display
Fields
Sort
Direction [ ] Size
( ) Forward [ ] Date
( ) Backward [ ] Time
Options
Directory
File Masks
Wildcards: the asterisk (*) represents a group of characters, the question mark (?) represents a single character.
The file mask "*.*" displays all files, since the two asterisk wildcards match any character in the name and in the extension. Specify which files you want to appear by entering one or more masks, separated by a blank, comma or semi-colon. For example: B
*.EXE;*.COM;*.BAT
AUTO*.BAT,CON*.SYS
C?MMAND.C?M AUTOEX?C.?AT
This entry has a "history list". Click on the
icon or press the down arrow to select from a list of your previous choices.
Options
Directory
Hidden files are not normally shown. Turn this on to see all files.
Options
Directory
Sort By
The file directory may be sorted by name, extension, size or date. For example, sorting by Date/Backward puts the newest file at the top of the list. !
When sorted by Name/Forward, pressing "A" jumps to the first file starting with "A"; then pressing "B" jumps to the first file starting with "AB" (and BackSpace allows you to back up a character.) This search works ONLY on files (not <dir> or <vol>) and ONLY when sorted on Name/Forward.
(related option:Direction)
Options
Directory
Direction
The file directory may be sorted forward or backward. For example, sorting Backward on Size puts the largest file at the top of the list.
(related option:Sort
Options
Directory
Lower Case Upper Case
command.com COMMAND.COM
Options
Directory
Fields
Specify which fields you want to see. With all fields on, you'll have two columns on a standard 80 character screen, three columns on a 132 character screen. Turning some fields off may give you more columns. Keep in mind that turning Size off will also turn off display of <vol> and <dir> indicators.
Options
Screen
Screen Options
Resolution Window
open
( ) 1 80x25 ( ) Overlap
( ) 2 80x43 ( ) Tile
( ) 3 80x50 ( ) Cascade
( ) 4 80x60
( ) 5 132x25 Window
close
( ) 6 132x43 [ ] Reposition
( ) 7 132x50
( ) 8 132x60 Tile
mode
( ) Rows
( ) Columns
Mouse
Options
Screen
Resolution
All PC video boards have a standard 80x25 text mode. EGA adapters also have a 43-line mode, and VGA adapters have a 50-line mode. The Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) has defined additional text resolutions, which will be available IF you have a VESA-compliant Super-VGA, AND the Super-VGA supports the modes, AND the board's VESA BIOS Extensions support the modes.
Options
Screen
Mouse
If you have an EGA or VGA adapter, you may select between a standard mouse cursor and one of eight smooth-motion mouse cursor shapes. If the smooth-motion mouse causes problems (scrambled characters) change to the standard mouse cursor instead.
Options
Screen
Window open
When a new window is opened, this setting determines how it's positioned on the screen. (see Overlap, Tile, Cascade).
Options
Screen
Window close
This setting determines what happens to the other windows, when one window is closed. If reposition is not checked, remaining windows stay where they were. If it is checked, other windows are automatically repositioned, according to the window
open choice.
Options
Screen
Tile mode
Determines whether tiled windows are placed above and below or side by side.
Rows:
Columns:
Options
Graphics
Graphics Options
Display
one
Options
Display
tagged
Rescale
Seconds
Options
Graphics
Options
Quiet
comments
Tiff
thumbnails
Dither
gamma
correction
Options
Graphics
Options
Quiet
With Quiet mode on, the program makes no sounds.
Options
Graphics
Options
If a GIF (Tiff, or IFF/LBM/HAM) file contains comments, you're asked whether you want to read them after it's displayed. Turn this feature off to ignore them.
Options
Graphics
Options
Some Tiff files contain both a full-size image and a second, smaller "thumbnail". With this feature on, thumbnail images are displayed.
Options
Graphics
Options
Dither
"Dithering" is a technique used to simulate a large number of colors when displaying in a mode that has fewer colors. Dithering provides the best quality display, but takes additional time.
Options
Graphics
Options
gamma
Some full-color (eg. JPEG and Targa) graphics have a gamma of "1.0". This option corrects the gamma for display on PC monitors (which generally have a gamma of approximately 1.7) so that the image doesn't look dark and "muddy".
Options
Graphics
Display one
When you select a single file for display, this setting controls the mode select dialog. If checked, the dialog allows you to select the display mode. If not checked, the program displays the graphic immediately, in the best available mode.
Options
Graphics
Display tagged
When you select one of a group of tagged files: T
"No dialog" displays them immediately in the best available mode for each graphic. b
"One time" presents the mode select dialog, and "locks" the display to the mode that you select. <
"Each time" presents the mode select dialog for each file.
Options
Graphics
Rescale
"Rescale None" displays all graphics in their original size. If an image is larger than the screen, you may pan around it (provided that your computer has enough memory) using the mouse or arrow keys. _
"Rescale Most" causes all but monochrome (2-color) graphics to be rescaled to fit the screen. <
"Rescale All" means that all graphics will fit the screen.
Options
Graphics
Seconds
Specifies the number of seconds that each graphic remains on the screen before the program moves on to the next.
Setup
Identify
video
Video
driver
Video
modes
Memory
Help
Index
Setup
Identify video
(See SETUP.DOC for detailed instructions)
Attempts to identify the Super-VGA and presents a list of possibilities to help you select a video
driver, if you don't know what type you have.
Setup
Video driver
Move the highlight to the driver you want and select Okay.
To use the special capabilities of your video card which go beyond the standard (CGA, Hercules, EGA, MCGA, or VGA) modes that are built-in to the program, select the driver designed for your video card.
If you have a modern Super-VGA, the "VESA BIOS Extensions" driver is probably the best choice. For an older (pre-VESA) Super-VGA, use the identify
video function, if you don't know which driver to select. ^
To disable video driver modes which don't work on your system, use the video
modes function.
Setup
Video modes
Enable modes and features that DO WORK by checking them [X]. Disable any that DON'T WORK by removing the check.
Video
Driver
Modes
Other
Modes Other
Features
Super-EGA
Setup
Video
modes
driver
After trying each of the video
driver
modes, disable those that don't work on your system. If none of the driver modes work, you either need to select a DIFFERENT video driver, or perhaps "none". (See SETUP.DOC for detailed instructions.)
Setup
Video
modes
modes
Although not standard graphics modes, the 320x400 and 360x480 modes work on true register-compatible VGAs. Q
The PCjr graphics modes are also available on a number of Tandy 1000 computers.
Setup
Video
modes
features
Some (early) EGA adapters could not do hardware panning. This setting affects only 16-color EGA (and VGA) modes.
The VGA DAC (the color palette) is set either through the video BIOS or by directly programming the VGA registers. Changing this selection may improve the performance (and avoid "flicker") during Alt-R palette rotate.
Setup
Video
modes
If you have a "Super-EGA" capable of 640x480x16 display, enter the (decimal) mode number listed in your owners manual. Some common examples: f
Ahead 38
Genoa 115
Paradise 80
Tseng Labs 37
Zenith 18
Setup
Memory
(See SETUP.DOC for detailed information) |
Set the "Limit" for EMS and/or XMS to control how much and which kind of memory the program uses for the "virtual screen".
The program uses EMS, up to the specified limit, if there's at least 64k available. Set the limit to anything less than 64 to disable use of EMS.
If EMS isn't used, the program uses XMS, up to the specified limit, if there's at least 192k available. Set the limit to less than 192 to disable use of XMS. P
If neither EMS nor XMS is used, the virtual screen is DOS memory (below 640k).
Select the mode to be used to display the graphic(s).
Full writes: !
fD:\PICS\PUPPY.GIF
Short writes:
sD:\PICS\PUPPY.GIF
Rotate does:
rD:\PICS\FRACTAL.GIF
After the display, delay and pan, the palette is rotated though one cycle.
In addition to reading the program documentation on screen, you may also press Alt+P (or click on Print at the top of this screen) to print it on your printer or write it to disk. You may find it very handy to have a printed copy to refer to while you use the program. 0
Print Documentation
Left margin (0-20) 5 Print to
(
) LPT1
Text width (65-160) 75 ( ) LPT2
( ) LPT3
Top margin (0-16) 0 ( ) COM1
( ) COM2
Text height (50-84) 59 ( ) Disk
Okay
Cancel
When you select "Print", you'll have an opportunity to specify margins. The default values for margins, width and height should work on any dot-matrix printer. Laser printers may not be able to print all the way to the edge of the paper, so you may need to adjust the margins, width and height to fit the available page size. (PRINT THIS DOCUMENT TO CHECK YOUR SETTINGS FOR MARGINS, WIDTH AND HEIGHT.)
If your printer has a "control panel" (or a utility program) which allows you to change character size and/or line spacing, you can specify margins so that the documentation will fit those printer settings. ^
^
+-------------|
| v
Top margin is the number of blank lines at the ^
top of each page. Keep in mind that most dot- |
matrix printers start printing almost an inch |
down from the top of the page with Top margin |
set to 0. |
<-+-> |
| Left margin is the number of blank characters to |
+--"indent" each line. A Left margin provides extra |
blank space for punching holes in the pages. |
|
Text width is the number of characters of text to |
print on each line: |
<---------------- Text width -------------------> |
|
Text height is the number of lines to print down ---+
the page. |
|
So, Left margin plus Text width must be less than |
or equal to the number of characters that your |
printer is set for, and Top margin plus Text |
height must be less than or equal to the number |
of lines that your printer can print per page. v
The "Print to" setting lets you print to a parallel printer port (LPT1, LPT2, or LPT3), to a serial printer port (COM1 or COM2) or to a disk file (in the same sub-directory as the program). If you're not sure, use LPT1.
What's New: Changes by Version, Last Minute Changes
Great new "desktop" design, with pull-down menus, clickable status bar, and context-sensitive help.
Moveable, resizeable, overlapping windows. Open up to NINE windows on different drives and directories at the same time. Copy or move files with a mouse by dragging them from one window to another.
In addition to the standard 80 column by 25 line mode, may be run in 80x43 mode on an EGA, 80x50 on a VGA, and 80x60, 132x25, 132x43, 132x50, or 132x60 on Super-VGAs with VESA BIOS support for those modes. 8
Complete control of directory window contents! Show all files with the familiar "*.*" file mask, or by a list of specifications such as "*.gif;*.bmp;*.pcx;*.jpg". Sort by name, extension, size, or date, forward or backward. Display in UPPERCASE or lowercase. Turn on or off display of file size, date, or time.
All CompuShow 2000! program documentation and setup functions are accessed from inside the program. In addition to the context-sensitive help screens, you can read the complete user's guide and other documentation on the screen or print it on your printer (with complete control of page width, length and margins.) Video driver selection, control of display modes, and EMS/XMS memory use are specified from the setup menu. t
Tag files in multiple windows (in different directories, even different disk drives) to display in a timed "show". t
Improved memory management routines make more DOS memory available for decoding those memory-hungry JPEG graphics.
New zoom function for images displayed in a 256-color Super-VGA mode, switches to 320x200x256 (and back) so you can pan around the enlarged image. H
New support for "HAM 8" format and improved rescaling of Amiga images. +
Grayscale JPEG (JFIF) and Targa graphics.
Version 1.01
------------
Fixed documentation print - menu problem. L
What's OLD (and possibly dangerous)!
===================================
Since December 1989, we've seen a number of programs claiming to be CompuShow version "8.01", "8.31", "8.51", etc. appear on electronic bulletin boards. Generally these counterfeits have been "hacked" from version 7.0 or 7.2, with the documentation and on-screen version number changed.
This supposedly "new" version usually has 1989 file dates. A hack of version 7 will not have any of the other changes made to CompuShow since 1989. In particular, it won't have the "CompuShow 2000!" name or look. #
Our best guess is that these counterfeit programs are a direct result of BBSes that limit downloads based on "credit" for uploads. Evidentally, some people are so desperate to get credit that they'll "hack together" a counterfeit program when they don't have anything legitimate to upload.
Apparently the only malicious intent is to disappoint anyone who's looking for the latest version. However, there have been some (unconfirmed) reports of VIRUSES attached to some counterfeit programs, so it's best to play it safe! If you find a program that fits the above description, by all means ERASE IT IMMEDIATELY and inform the SysOp that it's a counterfeit program, and others should be notified that it may be destructive. |
See Q&A.DOC for information about sources where you can always find the latest, complete, legitimate version of CompuShow.
Video overview
--------------
CompuShow 2000! knows what "class" of video adapter (CGA, Hercules, EGA, MCGA, or VGA) you have and therefore what graphics display modes are available. This means that you DON'T NEED TO DO ANYTHING SPECIAL in order to display graphics on ANY IBM COMPATIBLE graphics adapter. m
However, there are two situations that CompuShow 2000! can't know about unless you tell it; either that your video board has PROBLEMS with certain display modes, or that it has ADDITIONAL display modes that go beyond the capabilities of a "plain vanilla" board. For example, to get the most out of a Super-VGA, you'll want to select the right video driver for it.
Note that the "first time" you execute the program (whenever there's no 2SHOW.SAV file) it automatically selects the video driver for VESA BIOS Extensions if your video card has a VESA BIOS. 7
A simple "test procedure"
-------------------------
In the instructions that follow, we talk about "testing" various video modes. Here's how to find out whether a particular mode works on your computer: !
Press F4 for Graphics Options.
Press "S" (as needed) to turn ON the mode select dialog.
Press "A" (as needed) to turn ON rescaling.
Select a graphic file, SPECIFY THE MODE THAT YOU WANT TO TEST, and "Okay" to display in that mode: e
If the text screen remains (perhaps just changing color) your video card doesn't work in that mode.
Of course, if the graphic appears, but your monitor loses sync (and the image "rolls" or "scrambles"), you also want to treat that as a failure. b
If only PART of the image appears, or it writes over itself, you probably have the wrong driver.
However, keep in mind that the display in any particular mode may not be the BEST QUALITY for that specific image, so a "grainy" or "jagged" display doesn't mean that the graphic mode DIDN'T WORK. 7
"Built-in" graphics modes
-------------------------
All "IBM standard" graphics displays, Hercules monochrome graphics, and two non-standard 256-color modes (which work on the PS/2 and register-compatible VGAs) are "built-in". #
Mode (width x height x colors) Cga PCjr Ega MCGA VGA
While you SHOULD NEVER HAVE TO USE IT, you can override the automatic video detection:
2SHOW /Ax
where x is H for Hercules, C for Cga, B for EGA with monochrome monitor, E for EGA, M for MCGA, or V for VGA. G
Enabling/Disabling built-in modes
---------------------------------
Use the "Video modes" function of the Setup menu (Alt-S, M) to enable or disable these built-in modes and features:
The non-standard 320x400x256 and 360x480x256 modes work on the PS/2 and all hardware-compatible VGAs, giving a "plain vanilla" VGA something approaching Super-VGA quality. However, laptops in particular (perhaps some others) may not be able to do one (or both) of these modes. e
PCjr graphics modes (320x200x16 and 640x200x4) are also available on a number of Tandy 1000 models. ~
Some (early non-IBM) EGA adapters could not do hardware panning. If your EGA graphics display is "scrambled", turn this off.
The program can set the color palette in MCGA/VGA 16 and 256 color modes either through the video BIOS or by programming the hardware directly. You may find that one technique is smoother (or quicker) than the other (check it by rotating the palette).
If you have a "Super-EGA", with a 640x480x16 mode, your owner's manual should indicate the "mode number" (you'll need to enter the DECIMAL mode number). 3
Extended Graphics Modes
-----------------------
In addition to the built-in display modes, CompuShow 2000! supports a wide-range of extended graphics adapters by means of over thirty special video drivers (which are listed, below). Of course, if your adapter doesn't go beyond the standard modes, then you DON'T NEED a video driver. 6
There are three functions on the Setup (Alt-S) menu:
Setup / Identify video
This function attempts to identify the type of Super-VGA installed in your computer and presents a list of possible matches (if it includes "VESA", that's PROBABLY the best choice). There's no way for it to detect the "early video adapters" (listed below), but if you have one of them, you undoubtedly know what type it is.
Setup / Video driver
Pick a video driver by moving the highlight bar and then selecting "Okay".
Test each video driver mode (letters K-Y) as described above. If NONE of them work, try another video driver (or just select "none").
There are a number of reasons why SOME modes might not work; they may require a different model adapter, or more video memory than you have installed on your card, or perhaps your monitor isn't capable of a particular resolution. Also note that some video cards (eg. some ATI) only support a resolution like 800x600 if you use their "setup" or "install" program to specify that your monitor is capable of that mode.
Setup / Video modes
Disable any video driver modes that don't work correctly.
Video Drivers
-------------
Drivers are listed alphabetically in four groups: N
Modern Super-VGAs
Older Super-VGAs
Modern non-SVGAs
Early video adapters
____Modern Super-VGA adapters_______________________________ P
A modern Super-VGA should have VESA BIOS Extensions (VBE). The Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) is an industry organization and every major video board manufacturer belongs. They've established a standard so that software developers no longer have to 'scramble' to keep up with dozens of different ways of programming Super-VGA adapters from different manufacturers. The VBE are in the Video BIOS ROM chip on most high quality Super-VGA boards. (Some of the lower quality boards may require you to load the VBE as a TSR program, although hopefully this practice is dying out.) a
Our VESA video driver supports all 20 VESA Super-VGA graphics modes, in 16, 256, 32k, 64k, and 16m colors and resolutions ranging from 640x400 through 1280x1024. (CompuShow 2000! is limited to 15 video driver modes. While we have yet to find a board with over 15 VESA modes, a special selection routine is used to pick the 15 "best" modes in the VBE.) O
In the early days of VESA, some board manufacturers failed to support all the graphics display modes in their VBE. If your board's VBE doesn't support the modes that it should, contact the manufacturer for an upgrade. If you're having trouble with a Diamond (SpeedStar, Stealth, Viper, etc), see the note at the end of this document.
Early Oak VGAs had a serious BIOS bug (which was apparently corrected in later models). Attempting to use a video mode which wasn't available on a particular model would prevent the board from doing graphics again until the computer was re-booted. So if you find a mode that doesn't work (and disable it), you may have to re-boot the computer before you can use the other graphics modes.
[Available modes depend on the video adapter and DGIS interface]
Hercules GraphxStatn
640x400x256 640x480x256 800x600x256 1024x768x256 1024x768x256 640x480x32k 512x480x16m G
[The first 1024x768x256 is interlaced,
the second is non-interlaced]
IBM XGA
1024x768x16 640x480x256 1024x768x256 640x480x64k
IBM 8514/A
640x480x16 1024x768x16 640x480x256 1024x768x256 :
[Load the "adapter interface" (HDILOAD) in AUTOEXEC.BAT]
TIGA
[Available modes depend on the video adapter and TIGA interface] >
____Early video adapters____________________________________
Amstrad PC1512
640x200x16 &
ATI Graphics Solution (plantronics)
320x200x16 640x200x16
AT&T 6300
640x400x2 640x400x16
AT&T DEB
640x400x16
Cirrus
640x400x16 720x540x16 800x600x16
Hercules InColor
720x348x16
IBM CGA
160x100x16
IBM PGC
640x480x256
Plantronics
320x200x16
Tandy 1000SL/TL
640x200x16 9
Problems with Diamond VGAs
--------------------------
Unfortunately, we've had literally dozens (perhaps hundreds?) of calls and messages from people having trouble getting a Diamond VESA BIOS to work. For months, the Diamond tech support area on CompuServe has been "buzzing" with angry messages from frustrated Diamond customers! k
As of this writing (1/94) we've been contacted by Diamond tech support, and it sounds like they're FINALLY looking into their VESA BIOS bugs. While there's no way of knowing how long it may take them to fix the problems, it does appear that they're now working on them, so PLEASE CONTACT THE DIAMOND TECH SUPPORT people to see if they have a fix for your model. )
In the meantime, since Diamond's VESA BIOSes have had so many bugs, a couple of ShareWare replacements have proven to be the only answer for some Diamond models. One is specifically for the Diamond "Viper" model. It can be found as VPRVS*.ZIP in CompuServe's IBM hardware forum (GO IBMHW) in library 3. The other is a "universal" VESA BIOS (which supports 15-20 Super-VGA chipsets). It can be found as UVBE*.ZIP in the IBMPRO forum, library 12. We'll have a copy of each (which may not be as up-to-date as CompuServe) on the GraF/X BBS (602-282-9035).
Printing overview
-----------------
Printing of all graphics to a wide variety of printers is a feature of the enhanced/registered version of CompuShow 2000! (This standard/ShareWare version does not print graphics). y
The following is a list of the supported printers, along with a few questions and answers related to printing graphics. #
Printer Drivers
---------------
All printer drivers (except the IBM Compact Printer) support both a "fast" print mode and a "quality" mode. All drivers support printing in black and white and "negative" (black and white negated, which is good for any maps or charts which are basically white lines on a black background). Color printer drivers also print color graphics (in color). %
A GENERIC 8 pin color driver for 24/216" graphics line spacing. Tested on a Star NX-1000 Rainbow and Citizen MSP-50. Similar to EX-800, LX-800, FX-86e, LX-86, LX-80.
Color 8 pin (JX-80)
A GENERIC 8 pin color driver for 20/180" graphics line spacing. Similar to JX-80, LQ-1500, ALPS ALQ200.
Color 24 pin (LQ-2550)
A GENERIC 24 pin color printer for 24/216" graphics line spacing. Similar to LQ-2550.
Okidata 290 series color
Tested on a model 292.
IBM Color Printer
Vertical dot spacing is 84 dpi.
Hewlett Packard PaintJet.
Ink colors are different from the color DeskJets. >
A GENERIC driver for 8 pin printers that specify line spacing in multiples of 1/216"
IBM/EPSON 8pin (n/180")
A GENERIC driver for 8 pin printers that specify line spacing in multiples of 1/180"
Citizen MSP 10/15/20/25
A GENERIC driver for 8 pin printers that support 72 and 144 dpi.
KX-P2624 (24 pin: LQ1050)
A GENERIC driver for 24 pin printers.
KX-P2624 (ProPrntr XL24E)
For the IBM Pro Printer XL24E and compatibles (including some Canon Bubble-Jets?).
HP DeskJet 75/300 dpi
Prints slightly darker than the LaserJet driver.
HP LaserJet 75/150 dpi
For Laser Jets with limited memory installed.
HP LaserJet 75/300 dpi
For Laser Jets with adequate memory installed.
HP Thinkjet [MDL 2225C]
Supports 96 and 192 dpi.
IBM Compact
Has one graphics mode, at 70 dpi
NEC 8023
May also work with the C.Itoh Prowriter.
Okidata ML92/ML93
Prints 7 pin graphics. ?
Printer Questions and Answers
-----------------------------
I JUST GOT AN HP DESKJET 500C (OR 550C). DO YOU HAVE A DRIVER FOR IT? `
We've tried for MONTHS to get ink color information through the HP Peripherals Developers Program, and a number of DeskJet owners have called HP to complain to them and attempt to get the technical information. We're still trying to track down the specifications we need, but at this point it looks like HP will never provide the information we need. 9
WHEN I PRINT IN QUALITY MODE, I ONLY GET A PARTIAL PAGE
You're out of (computer) memory. Printing in quality mode on most color printers and laser printers above 150dpi requires more than 640k of memory (in other words, at least 1meg of either EMS or XMS). The program must expand, rescale and dither the entire image to 'virtual screen' memory (see the Help/About box) before it starts to print. If you don't have enough memory, the program prints as much of the image as possible, starting at the top. If you've only got 640k (or less) memory, you'll be limited to printing in fast mode. If you have more memory, but haven't allocated EMS or XMS, check your DOS manual for HIMEM.SYS, EMM386.SYS or similar extended/expanded memory managers. If you have both EMS and XMS, use the Setup/Memory function to control which type (and how much) is used. &
WHY DO SOME PICTURES PRINT SIDEWAYS?
Graphics that are 2 colors and are "taller" than they are "wide" are printed in 'portrait' orientation, at 8x10". Other graphics are printed in 'landscape' orientation, at 7.5x10" (the same 4:3 aspect ratio as the screen). s
THE LIGHTS ON MY HP LASER PRINTER BLINK FOR A FEW SECONDS AND THEN IT EJECTS A BLANK (OR PARTIALLY PRINTED) PAGE.
The printer may not have enough internal memory to store BOTH soft fonts and the graphics data. You need to remove soft fonts from printer memory to print graphics. With minimum memory installed, you may only be able to print at 75 dpi in Fast mode. '
PRINTING TO MY LASERJET IS VERY SLOW! n
If you're printing to a LaserJet, DeskJet, PaintJet, or any printer that prints ONE ROW OF DOTS AT A TIME, use EMS memory, not XMS! In Windows, create a PIF with XMS=0k and EMS=1280k. In DOS, use an EMM386.SYS statement in CONFIG.SYS (following HIMEM.SYS, if you have it). Note the following comparison of EMS vs. XMS times (in minutes and seconds) on a 386/SX-16. Z
24-pin 8-pin LaserJet 300dpi
1800x900 900x720 3000x2250
(ems) (xms) (ems) (xms) (ems) (xms)
expand: 0:09 0:09 0:09 0:09 0:09 0:09
dither: 2:53 2:53 1:12 1:12 11:30 11:30
print: 0:40 0:55 0:18 0:42 5:50 55:30 <--- !!!
So printing to a LaserJet at 300dpi takes FIFTY MINUTES LONGER WITH XMS memory than with EMS memory!
+-------------------------------------------+
| C o m p u S h o w 2 0 0 0 ! |
+-------------------------------------------+
| Standard Version 1.00a |
+-------------------------------------------+
| for the |
| IBM PC, XT, AT, PCjr, PS/2 |
| (and compatibles) |
| with |
| Hercules Monochrome Graphics Adapter |
| or |
| Color Graphics Adapter (CGA) |
| or |
| Enhanced Graphics Adapter (EGA) |
| or |
| Multi-Color Graphics Array (MCGA) |
| or |
| Video Graphics Array (VGA) |
+-------------------------------------------+
| User's Guide |
+-------------------------------------------+
User's Guide overview
---------------------
CompuShow 2000! is a program for viewing graphics on IBM compatible computers. The instructions for using the program are a combination of Help screens and program documentation. You access a help screen by pressing F1 at any point where you want a brief explanation of whatever you're currently working on. The program documentation is accessed (for reading on the screen or printing to your printer or a disk file) from the Help/Documentation menu: 8
WHATSNEW.DOC What's new in this version, last minute notes.
BASICS.DOC Installing on your computer. Terms and techniques.
2SHOW.DOC This user's guide.
VIDEO.DOC Detailed instructions to help you get the most
out of your video adapter. Video questions and
answers (Q&A).
PRINTER.DOC A list of all printer drivers that come with the
enhanced/registered program and printer Q&A.
Q&A.DOC Frequently asked questions and answers.
CATALOG.DOC More graphics-related software.
ORDRFORM.DOC Software order form.
Program Files
-------------
2SHOW.EXE --+
2SHOW.HLP +-- The CompuShow 2000! program.
2SHOW.DRV --+
2SHOW.SAV ----- Saved settings and options.
Viewing a picture
-----------------
When you select a file, CompuShow 2000! examines it to determine whether it's a graphic file that can be displayed:
CompuServe GIF Dr. Halo TIFF
CompuServe RLE ColoRix/EGA paint GEM/Ventura IMG
MacPaint Targa JFIF (JPEG)
PC Paintbrush PCX IFF/ILBM/HAM
PC Paint PIC Windows BitMaP
If it's not one of these, an information box tells you so. Selecting a graphic file brings up the mode select dialog. The top line shows the type of file, the size and number of colors in the image.
All available graphics display modes are on radio buttons with the best mode selected. This "best mode" is based on the size and number of colors in the picture and what the program knows about the capabilities of your computer. If your video card has problems with some display modes, or has additional (Super-VGA, etc.) display capabilities, check the video documentation (VIDEO.DOC) for setup instructions. s
You can display any graphic in any mode, by selecting its radio button. Push the Okay button to show the picture.
You can turn off the mode select dialog so that the picture is displayed immediately when you select the file. Check [F4] Graphic Options (and the F1 Help screens) for this and other options. 5
Viewing several pictures
------------------------
When you select any one of a group of tagged files, they're displayed one after another, with a delay between images. If you've tagged files in several windows, selecting any tagged file shows all tagged files (in all windows). l
[F4] Graphic Options lets you set the time between images, "lock in" one display mode for all images, etc:
With the delay set to ZERO seconds, you can do any of the "During graphic display" functions listed below. ESCape or right-click interrupts the sequence, any other key or left-click moves ahead to the next image. The program goes through the list of tagged files one time.
With the delay set to 1-9 seconds, the images are displayed in a repeating loop, until you interrupt them by pressing a key or clicking the mouse. 1
During graphic display
----------------------
As the image is being displayed, press ESCape (or right-click) to interrupt. The partial image will remain on the screen; press ESCape (or click) to exit the graphic. ,
Images larger than the screen may be "panned", using the mouse or arrow keys, provided that you have enough "virtual screen" (computer memory) available as shown on the Help/About box. (Keep in mind that the image WON'T BE LARGER THAN THE SCREEN, IF RESCALING IS TURNED ON in [F4] Graphic options). C
Tab displays the file name, graphic size, and display resolution.
If the graphic is displayed in a 256-color Super-VGA (video driver) mode, press "Z" to "Zoom" the image to 320x200 (which you may pan around), and "Z" again to return to the original mode. '
Alt-N negates any monochrome display.
Adjust the colors of an image displayed in an MCGA, VGA, or "Super-VGA" 16 or 256 color mode. Alt-G displays a color image as grayscale. Alt-N negates a grayscale display. Alt-C returns to Color. -
PgUp/PgDn brightens/darkens the image, and:
RED: decrease [F1] [F2] increase
GREEN: decrease [F3] [F4] increase
BLUE: decrease [F5] [F6] increase
Press Alt-F10 (hold down the Alt key and press [F10]) to save the adjusted color palette to disk. When you display the file again, the program automatically uses this saved palette (press [F9] to see the original color palette; [F10] to switch back to the saved color palette.) \
On an EGA, you can do a similar color adjustment for images displayed in modes 7, 9, or Z:
The sixteen EGA colors are numbered 0 to 9 and A to F (color zero is always the background). To select a color to adjust, type the color number (0..9 or A..F). That color will flash, so that you can see where it is and decide whether it should be adjusted. In addition to using F1..F6 to adjust red, green, and blue, you can "step through" all sixty-four EGA colors in color number sequence: .
COLOR NUMBER: decrease [F7] [F8] increase
CompuServe GIF Graphics
-----------------------
With the release of GIF version 89a (July '90) several exciting new features are supported: 4
Text may be included for display with the graphic. '
A "user input" request causes CompuShow 2000! to wait for you to press a key before continuing, to allow you time to read text, etc. To indicate that it's waiting for you, the program "ticks". Press ESCape or right-click to interrupt further processing; any other key or left-click to proceed. X
Delays between images may be used for animation or to allow time for you to read text. |
Transparency may be used to create non-rectangular images (or text characters) to appear "on top of" the underlying image. {
Images may appear which are "disposed of" by restoring to either the background color or the previous (underlying) image.
Comments may be included by the person creating the GIF. After you've viewed a GIF with comments, you're asked whether you want to read them. Press "Y" or left-click to read the comments; press 'N', ESCape, carriage return or right- click to skip comments.
As a rule of thumb, transparency and restore to previous functions in a 640x480x256 GIF will require either EMS/XMS memory or a 640k system, with no RAM resident programs loaded (TSRs, RAM disks, etc.), so that at least 530k of memory is available. If there isn't enough memory available, the transparent color will be displayed, and restore to previous will be handled as a restore to background.
See CATALOG.DOC for information about "CompuMake Tools" for converting your existing graphics images to GIF, including support for all features of the GIF89a format. -
Command-line options
--------------------
When you start CompuShow 2000!, it automatically opens a window on the same drive and directory as the focused (top) window from last time (except for windows on drive A: or B:). You can tell it to open up to nine windows on the command line (note that "2SHOW ." opens a window on the current drive and directory): D
Display a single file, and eXit to DOS with the image on screen: "
2SHOW /X C:\PICS\FLOWER.PCX
Although it's not really a command line control, if you have an older color adapter such as a CGA with a monochrome monitor, and find it hard to read the screen, execute the DOS command "MODE BW80" before starting the program (put "MODE BW80" in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.) When started in BW80 mode, CompuShow 2000! uses a special monochrome color set: black, gray, and white. (The enhanced/registered CompuShow 2000! allows you to select whatever colors you want for all areas of the screen.) /
A scripted slide show
---------------------
The enhanced/registered version of CompuShow 2000! allows you to create slide show scripts to automatically show graphics from any drive and directory, using the best display mode or a specified mode, with control of (up, down, left, right) panning, to run continuously or quit after one pass. You can set up "unattended" shows, specifying a delay in seconds between images, and even rotate the palette for dramatic fractal shows. You can also set up scripts for operator-attended shows, so that it waits for a keypress before moving ahead to the next image, and can even back up to previous images. '
Printing graphics
-----------------
The enhanced/registered version also prints all graphics on a wide range of printers. See the printer documentation (PRINTER.DOC) for a list of supported printers and related information. ?
Uploading to a Bulletin Board
-----------------------------
We encourage you to copy and share the Standard/ShareWare version of CompuShow 2000! with others, but please be considerate when you upload to a BBS or give a copy to a friend. Be sure you include 2SHOW.EXE, 2SHOW.HLP, and 2SHOW.DRV, but PLEASE DO NOT include your 2SHOW.SAV file. O
BBS SysOps and ShareWare Distributors
-------------------------------------
We appreciate the distribution of CompuShow on electronic bulletin boards, ShareWare disks, and CD-ROMs. If you're a BBS SysOp or ShareWare distributor, contact me with your name and address and I'll add you to our mailing list. You'll receive the latest complete standard version of CompuShow 2000! by mail as new versions are released. 7
Viruses and Trojan Horses
-------------------------
Due to the growing concern over computer viruses, Trojan horses, and other malicious programs, BBS SysOps and ShareWare distributors have started establishing "direct from author" libraries. We feel this is an excellent policy, and expect to see it become more common as time passes.
(Just to put in one last "plug"), your concern about possible "virus infection" is another reason to register the ShareWare that you intend to continue using. F
This program is copyrighted software. However, you are encouraged to copy and share this standard version with others, so long as no charge is made for the software, and it's unmodified and copied in its entirety, including all program documentation and all support files. It may be distributed via modem, provided that all files are transmitted (archived) together.
Notice that ShareWare is copyrighted software. It's not "Public Domain" software, nor is it "free" software. If you continue to use this program beyond a reasonable "trial period", not to exceed 21 days, you must register and pay for it.
Your registration fee makes it possible for us to continue to improve the program and to provide similar high quality software at reasonable prices. D
IF YOU USE THE PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL PURPOSES, YOU MUST REGISTER. \
For your registration fee you receive the latest complete version of the enhanced program. n
As a registered user, you'll be notified as new versions are released, and may upgrade for a nominal charge. (
For your convenience, we've included an order form (ORDRFORM.DOC) with space for all the required information. (Complete it by hand or with a word processor.) Orders are shipped first class mail, and registration puts you on our mailing list for notification when future versions are available.
Disclaimer
----------
This software is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. In no event shall Canyon State Systems and Software be liable for any damages arising out of the use or inability to use this program.
Credits
-------
Graphics Interchange Format(c) copyright CompuServe Inc.
GIF(sm) is a Service Mark property of CompuServe Inc.
This software is based in part on the work of the
Independent JPEG Group
Smooth Mouse Driver(c) copyright 1992 Andy Hakim
Andy Hakim, P.O. Box 70392, Houston, Tx 77270-0392
Thank you for your support: r
Bob Berry
Canyon State Systems and Software
Post Office Box 86
Sedona, Az. 86339-0086
Voice phone: (602) 282-5070
CompuServe: [76555,167]
Internet: 76555.167@compuserve.com
GEnie: r.berry7
EMail: (602) 282-9035
Copyright (c) 1994
Canyon State Systems and Software (tm) Sedona, Az.
Worldwide Rights Reserved
Frequently Asked Questions
==========================
The Right Stuff
---------------
IN JULY OF 1992, WAS COMPUSHOW USED BY THE CREW OF THE SPACE SHUTTLE ON MISSION STS-50 TO VIEW DIAGRAMS OF AN EXPERIMENTAL LIFE SUPPORT SYSTEM WHICH THEY NEEDED TO REPAIR, WHEN THEIR PRIMARY "TEXT AND GRAPHICS SYSTEM" JAMMED AND SCANNED GRAPHICS IMAGES HAD TO BE TRANSMITTED TO THEM FROM THE GROUND? :
(Oh, thanks for asking!) The answer is a resounding YES! !
Download sites
--------------
WHERE CAN I FIND THE LATEST VERSION OF COMPUSHOW?
The standard, ShareWare version of CompuShow is available from literally hundreds of sources all over the world. We supply the latest version to dozens of ShareWare distributors, such as Software Excitement and PC-SIG, and mail disks to hundreds of electronic bulletin boards, including America Online and Internet, as well as directly posting to CompuServe, GEnie, and the GraF/X BBS. ,
CompuServe: GO PICS, LIBrary 3, CSHOWA.EXE -
GEnie: the IBMPC RT, LIBrary 14, CSHOWA.ZIP >
GraF/X: 602-282-9035, the CompuShow support area, CSHOWA.EXE j
America Online: The latest version will always be in the RECOMMENDED UTILITIES library at keyword "ART".
Internet: The information that I have on Internet 'ftp' sites is that "It's on WSMR-SIMTEL20.Army.Mil (192.88.110.20), garbo.uwasa.fi (128.214.87.1), OAK.Oakland.Edu (141.210.10.117), wuarchive.wustl.edu (128.252.135.4), ftp.uu.net (137.39.1.9), nic.funet.fi (128.214.6.100), src.doc.ic.ac.uk (146.169.3.7) or rana.cc.deakin.oz.au (128.184.1.4), or by e-mail through the BITNET/EARN file servers." '
Converting to GIF
-----------------
HOW CAN I CONVERT OTHER GRAPHICS TO GIF FORMAT? WHAT'S "COMPUMAKE TOOLS"? N
CompuMake Tools, our graphics conversion utility is described in CATALOG.DOC )
CompuShow upgrades
------------------
I'M A REGISTERED COMPUSHOW USER AND WANT TO GET COMPUSHOW 2000!
While it's a completely different program, you don't need to re-register. We'll switch your registration over to CompuShow 2000! for $16 (less than half price!) 6
WHAT'S YOUR POLICY ON UPGRADES FOR REGISTERED USERS? {
As we release new versions of CompuShow 2000!, registered users are notified by mail, and may upgrade for a nominal cost. L
I JUST SAW A NEW VERSION ON A BBS, BUT HAVEN'T RECEIVED AN UPGRADE NOTICE! )
New releases of CompuShow sometimes seem to travel at the speed of light. Our first step is to post a new release on CompuServe, GEnie and the GraF/X BBS and then mail copies to our list of BBS SysOps and ShareWare distributors. It may take a couple of weeks to mail notices to registered users.
Keep in mind that "minor revisions" (like version 1.01 compared to 1.00) have small changes that don't justify a mailing to all registered users. If you want to upgrade to the latest "minor revision", contact me for costs.
Finally, keep in mind that you may have found a COUNTERFEIT! (See WHATSNEW.DOC for more information about hacked versions of CompuShow.) /
CompuShow and Windows
---------------------
I'M HAVING PROBLEMS USING COMPUSHOW IN WINDOWS
We've had some (limited) success making Windows work. In general it seems that some Windows drivers don't like DOS applications to do graphics, however sometimes these will make a difference: !
Make a "PIF" file for CompuShow =
Run Windows in standard mode, rather than 386 enhanced mode
Put FILES=60 in CONFIG.SYS 7
If CONFIG.SYS has EMM386.SYS add "D=48" to that line. ;
Unrecognized Graphics Files
---------------------------
I DOWNLOADED A GIF FROM A BBS, BUT COMPUSHOW SAYS IT'S NOT A GIF
It was probably uploaded by someone with an Apple computer, and has the infamous 128 byte "MacBinary header". A legitimate GIF file starts with "GIF87a" (or "GIF89a") in the first six bytes, so this "header" which some Apple software tacks on the front end of the file, actually creates a corrupt GIF. If the BBS SysOp doesn't have a program for stripping the header, we have one (UNMACA.EXE) on the GraF/X BBS, and CompuServe, GO PICS, LIBrary 14. E
I KNOW I'VE GOT A LEGITIMATE GRAPHIC IMAGE, BUT IT'S NOT RECOGNIZED K
Some programs which claim to produce a standard graphic file, may not conform to the official specification. If you find examples that CompuShow can't handle, we'd appreciate a copy of the file, so that we can add support for the format. However, some compression schemes (such as RIX) are confidential, so we can't support them. 7
WHY CAN'T I DISPLAY "JPEG" FILES CREATED BY "GIF2JPG"
Here's a quote from the Independent JPEG Group, under the heading SOFTWARE THAT'S NO HELP AT ALL: "Handmade Software's shareware PC program GIF2JPG produces files that are totally incompatible with our programs. They use a proprietary format that is an amalgam of GIF and JPEG representations. However, you can force GIF2JPG to produce compatible files with its -j switch, and their decompression program JPG2GIF can read our files (at least ones produced with our default option settings)."
GIF files
---------
WHERE DO GIF FILES COME FROM?
WHERE CAN I FIND A DESCRIPTION OF THE GIF FILE FORMAT?
WHERE CAN I GET MORE GIF GRAPHICS?
HOW CAN I CREATE A GIF FROM A PHOTOGRAPH?
The GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), pronounced "JIF", was designed by CompuServe and the official specification released in June of 1987. Since that time, it has become very popular, due to several factors. -
First, GIF uses an efficient compression routine which makes graphics files significantly smaller than in virtually any other format. Secondly, by design, it's an INTERCHANGE format. Graphics may be created by paint programs, fractal generating programs, on scanners or video capture boards. The originating computer might be an IBM, Apple, Color MAC, Amiga, or virtually any type of computer. Since most computers with graphics capabilities have (at least one) GIF display program, the graphics can easily be "moved" from one type of computer to another.
As GIF was created by CompuServe, the Graphics Support forum (PICS) is the place to find complete, accurate, and up-to-date information about GIF. If you're not a CompuServe subscriber, but are seriously interested in trying graphics programming, I do recommend subscribing (call 1-800-848-8199, operator 229, to sign up or to verify current costs. As of 4/91 it's $39.95 for a "start-up" subscription which includes a hard-bound user's guide, a subscription to the CompuServe Magazine, and $25 credit toward connect time. Their connect rates (as of Feb '93) are 300 baud $6.00/hour, 1200,2400 baud $8.00/hour and 9600,14400 baud $16.00/hour. l
We've had a number of requests for "disks full of GIFs" or other graphics files. While CompuShow has been included on ShareWare disks with GIFs of various descriptions, these disks did not come from Canyon State Systems. We don't sell or distribute GIFs or other graphics files, with the exception of a few samples that are included on the enhanced program disk.
The best place to look for GIF images is CompuServe; "GO GRAPHICS" for a menu of graphics forums, containing literally thousands of images and related files. GIF images are also beginning to appear in significant numbers on other commercial services and a number of BBS's. v
Our personal favorite scanning service is Spectrum Scanning (800-822-6200) followed closely by JPix at 219-267-3980.
The following registered users of CompuShow operate bulletin boards. Other registered users who would like to be added to this list, please contact me. F
New Dimensions BBS 408-274-5550 has a large and growing GIF library. n
The Godfather BBS 813-289-3314 has a free public-access section and an adult section requiring subscription. J
Adline USA BBS 708-260-8818 for GIF files online and a scanning service.
Event Horizons Commercial BBS has 64 lines to access 2.2 giga-bytes of graphics at up to 9600 baud. In addition, they have a mail order catalog service with world-wide shipment:
Subscribers 800 GO MODEM Event Horizons
1200/2400 bps 503 697-5100 311 Avenue "B", Suite 209
USR HST 9600 bps 503 697-5126 Lake Oswego, OR 97034
V32 9600 bps 503 697-5129 Voice: 503 697-7700
Oracomm Technical Support 612-894-5879. ~
The Slacc Stack BBS in St. Louis 314-367-1903 has a growing selection of GIF graphics and the entire PC-SIG library on line. F
The Hideout BBS in Newton NC 704-464-7235 features "many GIF files".
America Online with over 6000 GIF images. Call 1-800-827-6364 for a free (Graphical User Interface) software sign-up kit and the first month's membership free. N
The Public Connection in Ft Worth TX 817-738-7336 (has no 'adult' graphics). I
Graphics House BBS in Minot ND 701-839-8306 has "4 or 5 thousand GIFs". [
Shawn McClain operates a scanning service at 818 Cherokee Trace, Grand Prairie, TX 75051.
WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REMOVE FROM THIS LIST ANY BBS WHICH TAMPERS WITH ANY COMPUSHOW DOCUMENTATION OR FAILS TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENT THAT COMPUSHOW MUST BE DISTRIBUTED UNMODIFIED AND INTACT.
CaSSS Software Catalog
======================
CompuMake Tools
---------------
In response to a number of requests for a graphics conversion utility, we've assembled "CompuMake Tools", a set of programs to convert raster graphics images to GIF, supporting all features of GIF versions "87a" and "89a".
A hard disk is REQUIRED. CompuMake Tools manipulates images on the hard disk, so that the amount of computer memory doesn't limit the size of the graphic you can work with.
A graphics adapter is NOT REQUIRED for conversions, although an MCGA or VGA is recommended for functions that involve selecting specific colors for text, frames, background, etc.
Convert FROM:
CompuServe GIF Ega Paint
CompuServe RLE ColoRIX
MacPaint IFF/ILBM/HAM
PC Paintbrush Targa
PC Paint Microsoft Windows Paint (BMP)
Dr. Halo TIFF
GEM/Ventura IMG
Convert directly TO single-image GIF graphics (or BMP).
The image may be automatically "trimmed", removing solid color borders encoded as part of the image, or you can bypass trimming. Any size graphic may be rotated 90, 180, or 270 degrees. Output in either interlaced or non-interlaced GIF format. The global color map may be sorted with the most used colors first. Convert to 16 or 64 level grayscale. Add single or multiple "frames" around the image. Create multiple-image GIF graphics.
A major design feature is a direct interface with "PicLab", a Public Domain program included with CompuMake Tools. CompuMake works with PicLab to create multiple graphics images with a single color map and combine them into a multiple-image GIF graphic. 5
Incorporate any or all features of GIF version 89a. z
Delays and user input.
Transparency.
Restore to background.
Restore to previous image.
Plain text.
Comments.
With a "toolbox" concept in mind, CompuMake Tools accept file names and other parameters "on the command line", to allow you to use them in batch files, which have three definite advantages.
Since manipulating and combining graphics can take quite a while (even on a fast 486), you can start a batch file "job" and go get a cup of coffee.
If you want to "fine tune" the graphic you've created, you can make changes to the batch file and rerun it from the beginning, or even pick it up from a mid- point. w
Batch files you've already used can be "models" for similar tasks, making the new project that much easier to set up.
A tutorial with sample graphics and batch files are included to illustrate a number of graphics conversions including a full-blown multiple image GIF89a. +
Mail a check or money order payable to "Canyon State Systems", in US dollars, drawn on a US bank. A Canadian Postal Money Order in US Dollars is acceptable. Sorry, no C.O.D.s. ]
Credit card orders by paper mail (with signature, please), electronic mail, or voice phone. .
PAPER MAIL: Canyon State Systems Y
Post Office Box 86
Sedona, AZ 86339-0086
VOICE PHONE: 602-282-5070 R
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm MST
1600-2400 GMT
ELECTRONIC MAIL: CompuServe: 76555,167
Internet: 76555.167@compuserve.com
GEnie: r.berry7
GraF/X email to Bob Berry: 602-282-9035
Basic instructions overview
---------------------------
This document tells you how to install CompuShow 2000! on your computer, and illustrates the many ways you can perform actions with the keyboard or a mouse. If you're familiar with modern PC software, you should have no trouble using CompuShow 2000! However, whether you're a novice or power user, you may find examples here describing terms and techniques that are new to you: $
the MENU RADIO BUTTONS
HOT KEYS INPUT LINES
the STATUS BAR HISTORY window
FOCUSED items push BUTTONS
DRAGGING with a mouse DEFAULT button
DIALOG boxes SELECTING items
CHECK BOXES DOUBLE-CLICKING a mouse
Installing CompuShow 2000!
--------------------------
Install on a computer which only has FLOPPY DRIVES by executing:
COPY A:*.* B:
to copy everything from a disk in drive A: to a formatted disk in drive B: e
To install on a HARD DISK, we recommend that you put the three CompuShow 2000! program files (2SHOW.EXE, 2SHOW.HLP and 2SHOW.DRV) in a directory by themselves. There's no need to put the program in the same directory as your graphic files, and in general it's a good idea to avoid mixing a lot of programs and other files in one big 'catch-all' directory. +
Make a new directory, and "move into" it:
MD \2SHOW
CD \2SHOW
To copy the program from a floppy disk in A:
COPY A:*.*
To copy the program from somewhere else on your hard disk (assuming you downloaded it to a directory named \DOWNLOAD):
COPY \DOWNLOAD\2SHOW.*
In order to be able to execute CompuShow 2000! "from anywhere": v
PATH <-- you type this
PATH=C:\PROGRAMS;C:\BATS;C:\DOS <-- DOS responds
select one of the directories on the path (I'd pick "C:\BATS", in this example), and create a batch file with the DOS EDIT program (or a word processor):
EDIT C:\BATS\2SHOW.BAT
type in:
C:\2SHOW\2SHOW %1 %2 %3 %4 %5 %6 %7 %8 %9
then Alt-F X Y (to exit the edit program and save the file)
The menu, hot keys, and status bar
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The pull-down MENU (across the top of the screen) contains entries for all the things you can do in the program. Many of these operations have HOT KEYS assigned to them. For example, in the File menu, you'll find "New window F3", so pressing the F3 hot key is a short-cut to open a new window.
The STATUS BAR (across the bottom of the screen) does two things. First, it shows some of the most used hot keys, both as a reminder and also so that you can click the hot key on the status bar to "push it" with a mouse. Secondly, as you move across the menu bar and pull down menus, the status bar shows a short description of the menu item that's FOCUSED (the one at the highlight bar). !
Using the menu
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Here are examples of various ways to call up the Graphics Options dialog:
___With the keyboard___ 5
F4: press the hot key assigned to Graphics Options. `
Alt-O: Since the O in Options (on the menu bar) is highlighted, it's the hotkey for that menu.
F10: moves the focus to the menu bar. Then, either move across to Options with the arrow keys and press enter, or just press O.
After using Alt-O or F10 to pull down the Options menu, either move the focus with the arrow keys and press enter, or just press "G".
___With a mouse___ L
Click "F4 Graphics options" on the status bar at the bottom of the screen. s
Click "Options" on the menu bar at the top of the screen to pull down the Options menu, then click on "Graphics".
Move the mouse to "Options" on the menu bar, hold the left button down, pull the focus down to "Graphics" and release the button. (This press-move-release operation is known as DRAGGING with the mouse.)
Dialog boxes
------------
Some settings, presented as CHECKBOXES [X] may be turned on or off. Others appear as RADIO BUTTONS (.) and selecting one setting turns the others off (like the pushbuttons on a car radio). There are also INPUT LINES, where you type something, and these usually have a HISTORY of your previous entries. At the bottom of each dialog box are "Okay" and "Cancel" BUTTONS, with the color of "Okay" indicating that it's the DEFAULT.
___With the keyboard___ @
Move from section to section with the TAB key. Turn check boxes on or off with the spacebar. Change radio buttons with the arrow keys. Pull down the history for an input line with the down arrow key, scroll through the previous responses with the arrow keys and press enter. Press the default button by pressing enter. u
You can also change checkboxes and radio buttons and press Okay or Cancel buttons by typing the highlighted letter.
___With a mouse___ W
Change checkboxes, radio buttons, access history and push Okay or Cancel by clicking. '
Directory windows
-----------------
The program automatically opens one directory window, which shows what's on your computer; a listing of the files on your disk.
Sometimes beginners think that CompuShow 2000! has "pictures inside it", and ask how they "import" more pictures, or get "other CompuShows" that have different pictures. Just remember that CompuShow 2000! is the PROGRAM (the "computer tool") that displays pictures, and the pictures are actually graphics FILES ON YOUR DISK(S). Wherever the files are located on your disk(s) you can move around, find and display them. O
File/Drive [F2] lets you switch the current window to a different disk drive. O
File/New window [F3] lets you open additional windows, up to a total of nine!
SELECT a file by DOUBLE-CLICKING (click twice, quickly) with the LEFT mouse button or move the focus to it with the arrow keys and press the spacebar.
Selecting a directory <dir> moves you into that directory. Keep in mind that DOS uses "." to mean THIS directory, and ".." to mean the directory ABOVE THIS ONE. b
If the disk has a volume label <vol> selecting it jumps immediately to the root (top) directory.
TAG a file by DOUBLE-CLICKING with the RIGHT mouse button or press the "+" key. A checkmark following the file name indicates that it's tagged. (A second right-double-click or "+" key untags it.) /
Advanced "Good Stuff"
---------------------
CompuShow 2000! is also a tool for organizing your files. As an example, let's say you have GIF files (pictures) mixed in with other files that you downloaded from your local BBS in a directory named "C:\BBS", which is in the current window. G
1. Press [F3] (File/New window) to open another window (on drive C:). :
2. Select ".." (or <vol>) to move to the root directory. L
3. Pull down the File menu, select "make sub-directory", and enter "GIFS". )
4. Select "gifs <dir>" to move into it. `
You now have a new, empty C:\GIFS directory in window 2 and your C:\BBS directory in window 1. F
5. Switch back to window 1, by pressing Alt-1 or [F6] (Window/Next). e
6. Press [F7] (File/Tag) and enter "*.GIF" to tag all files in the current window which end in GIF.
7. Press Alt-M (File/Move) and select window 2 as the destination, or drag a TAGGED file with the RIGHT mouse button from window 1 to window 2. s
You've just moved all the GIF files from your "cluttered" BBS directory into a new directory of their own. Notice that using Alt-M (File/Move) or dragging with the right mouse button MOVES the files (they're now in C:\GIFS and have been erased from C:\BBS). Using Alt-C (File/Copy) or dragging with the left mouse button COPIES the files (you have them in both places).
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