PowerStrip 3.2 is very much like 3.1 from a functionality standpoint. Here are the real differences:
• smaller file size (80k, down from 170k)
• lower memory requirements (170k, down from 256k)
• better handling of temp memory
• able to toggle external battery awareness (some of us have 'em, some don't)
What it is
PowerStrip is a "passive" utility. That means it changes nothing on the system, it only reports the current state of affairs. PowerStrip can display, at your discretion, the following information:
√ current time
√ current date
√ free RAM
√ free disk space
√ whether AppleTalk is on or off
√ the currently selected printer
√ mouse coordinates
and for PowerBook users:
√ CPU speed
√ whether modem is on or off
√ elapsed charging time or elapsed battery time
√ battery voltage
√ battery level bar graph
√ battery voltage history graph
How to Use it
Just run it! The first time you run it, PowerStrip will display a set of default data windows. You can configure PowerStrip to hide these, or move them to the bottom, or whatever. Play around. You'll get the hang of it.
To configure the look of a window, option-click on that window. That will bring up a dialog box that will let you change the color of the text and background, or display the window across the bottom of the screen, or -- if you've option-clicked on the battery graph window -- you can set the battery full and battery low parameters that the graph will use.
You can also use the menu command "Configure Window..." under the "Configure" menu to select which window to change.
To hide a window, simply select it from the menu. It's important to note that the next time that window appears, it will be on the far right and at the top of the screen.
It's entirely possible to set up the windows in any sequence you like. Simply hide them all, and then choose all the windows you want displayed in the sequence you want them displayed.
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IMPORTANT
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It's important to note here that if things get hopelessly confused -- ugly colors, windows not showing up where you want them, etc. -- just trash the file "PowerStrip3.2Prefs" in the "Preferences Folder" in the "System Folder" AFTER you've quit PowerStrip. This assures PowerStrip will use it's factory default values the next time it runs.
If you like it
If you find PowerStrip useful, and you feel so overwhelmed with guilt that you insist on paying for it, that's fine. Under the "File" menu you'll see an option that says "Print Registration Form..." This option brings up a dialog box where you can enter some info about yourself (name, address, e-mail address, comments, etc). PowerStrip will then print a sheet of paper that you'll fold into thirds, insert some money or a check, tape closed, lick a stamp onto, and mail off to me.
Any revenue from PowerStrip will be put into my twins' college fund, so send as much as you can! If you can't send money, I understand. :( But please send a postcard of where you live, or an autographed copy of a book you've written, or an autographed 8x10 publicity photo if you're a celebrity.
If you work at the Cape or a related site (JPL, Edwards, etc.) I definitely want to hear from you. Write to mikeca@crt.com.
