  
                  *---== ST REPORT ONLINE MAGAZINE ==---*
                         """""""""""""""""""""""""
                                       
                                       
                     "The Original Online ST Magazine"
                      _______________________________
  July 14, 1989                                             Vol III No.96
  =======================================================================
  
                         ST Report Online Magazine
                        __________________________
                          Post Office Box   6672
                          Jacksonville,  Florida
                               32236 ~ 6672
  
                               R.F. Mariano
                            Publisher - Editor
                 _________________________________________
                   Voice: 904-783-3319  10 AM - 4 PM EDT
                     BBS:  904-786-4176   12-24-96 HST
                    FAX: 904-783-3319 12 AM - 6 AM EDT
                 _________________________________________
  
             **  F-NET NODE 350 ** FIDOMAIL NODE 1:363/37  **
              Our support BBS carries ALL issues of STReport
                                    and
               An International list of private BBS systems
               carrying STReport for their users  enjoyment
 
    __________________________________________________________________ 
    
 > Issue: #96 STReport        The Online Magazine of Choice! 
   ------------------- 
     - The Editors' Podium                   - CPU REPORT
     - STACY Released??                      - Release Dates Important?
     - EA's POPULOUS                         - SSI's RED LIGHTNING
     - HDX 3.01 Huge Partitions OK!          - Inside SHAREWARE
     - MAIL ORDER LOWBALLERS!                - ST REPORT CONFIDENTIAL 
      
  =======================================================================
       AVAILABLE ON:      COMP-U-SERVE  ~  DELPHI  ~  GENIE  ~  BIX
  =======================================================================
    
 > The Editor's Podium

     Hmmm, mid  July, and  still ..nothing exciting, just the hot humid air
 so typical of the summer months, but wait, picture this if you will, Atari
 as a  huge aircraft  carrier, CVN  ATARI.   After many  months of serious,
 careful plotting and planning, CVN ATARI has now come about and heads into
 the  wind.    Windsocks  are  full  and  the decks are ready to launch all
 planes.  The skies of the computer world will be filled with  the launched
 attack aircraft  of CVN  ATARI.   Hmm ..kinda cryptic?  You bet!  Just pay
 careful attention to the course of current events for the next few weeks..
 And you thought just the weather was hot???

     Meanwhile, users from coast to coast are waiting patiently for the new
 TOS and of course,  STACY, PORTFOLIO  and the  Handheld Arcade.   From all
 indications, Atari  will have  a banner Christmas season as they will have
 the products readily available and be advertising across the nation.    We
 have been  clamoring that Atari is back for the last six weeks and now, we
 are resolute in saying it.  1989 will be a year to be remembered.

                                                     Ralph.....


                             "ATARI IS BACK!"



  **********************************************************************



   NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE

                          FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

     COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME

                              to the Readers

                         ST REPORT ONLINE MAGAZINE
                      The Online Magazine of Choice!

                         NEW USERS SIGN UP TODAY!

             Call any of the St Report  Official BBS numbers 
                     (Listed at the top of ST REPORT)
                                    or
                   Leave E-mail to St Report - R.Mariano

           Be sure to include your full mailing address so your 
             Compuserve kit can be immediately mailed to you!



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  ***********************************************************************




 > CPU REPORT
   ========== 
   Issue # 30


 by Michael Arthur


 Remember When....

       In 1983, an alliance  of several  Japanese computer  makers tried to
 break  into  the  low-end  computer market with the Microsoft-designed MSX
 standard, but decided  otherwise  when  the  industry  went  into  a small
 recession in 1984?


 CPU Systems Roundup X
 ======================


       Practical Dream Computer Systems II:  The Less Things Change
       ------------------------------------------------------------


 Part I

       In the  computer user's quest for faster, more powerful systems that
 will do more than the "older" computers, much of the focus in the computer
 industry  has  been  on  the  high-end  of  the market, showcasing low-end
 workstations like the NeXT system, or high-end microcomputers, such as IBM
 Clones using the 80386 chip.  Since these computers are VERY expensive, we
 try not to  pay  attention  to  them,  but  ultimately  we  find ourselves
 fantasizing about what would be our Dream System, the one computer that we
 would have really gotten IF  we  had  the  money.    But  even  though the
 majority of  computer owners  end up  buying low/middle  end computers, it
 seems that, instead of dreaming about  owning a  Dream System  one day, it
 would be  better to  think about  how to  make a  Dream System that, while
 providing great power and versatility,  is  priced  reasonably  enough for
 most computer users to purchase....

      To attempt  to determine  if this  is feasible, I have made a list of
 "Practical"  Dream  Systems  that  could  be  configured  from  the  major
 computers in the low/middle end of the market, and compared their features
 to make an objective opinion about which is the best.  I ignored variables
 like  operating  systems  and  software,  and  concentrated  on the actual
 computers' features and speed, the largest hard disk you could attain, and
 the best  graphics that system could provide.  While operating systems and
 software are a definite factor in a computer, I wanted to aim for the best
 hardware itself, to which you could add the other items.

       All of  the Practical  Dream Systems  shown cost from $3000 to $5000
 dollars, since surveys have shown that the majority of computer owners own
 systems that  are in  that price  range.   Also, all  of the Dream Systems
 should have from 1 - 2 Megabytes of RAM, since this is  quickly becoming a
 requirement for  applications software.   For example, AppleWorks GS takes
 up 1.25  Megs of  RAM just  to boot  up, and  MultiFinder, as  well as the
 Amiga's OS,  need 2  Megs of RAM to be able to multitask several programs,
 as well as to run more smoothly.   Since the  main reason  for a Practical
 Dream System  is to  provide more  "bang for  the buck", a large factor in
 deciding a system's worth will be its price/performance  ratio, to  see if
 it meets the criteria for having "Power Without the Price"....

       After doing some research, I found several configurations that could
 truly claim to be "Affordable Dream  Systems".    Shown  in  no particular
 order, here is my list:

        (Warning:  Do not be surprised by the Retail Prices Shown.)

 System #1
 ---------

       -  Dell System 220 - Total Cost of System: $3800.00 Dollars.

      This IBM  Compatible is  a 20 MHZ 80286 system with 1 Megabyte of RAM
 onboard, 3 IBM PC AT expansion slots, a  3.5" 1.44  Meg disk  drive, and a
 built-in EGA/VGA  video board with a VGA Monitor.  To augment this system,
 a Dell 1 Meg SIMM RAM Card and a CompuAdd 70 Megabyte Hard Drive  would be
 added....

 So, with this system, you would have:

       Dell System 220 with VGA Board/Monitor (Cost: $2600.00)
       Dell 1 Megabyte RAM Upgrade (Cost: $500.00)
       CompuAdd 70 Megabyte External Hard Drive (Cost: $700.00)

 EGA Graphics Resolution: 640*350 with 16  Colors out of 64

 VGA Graphics Resolution: 320*200 with 256 Colors out of 256,000
                          640*480 with 16  Colors out of 256,000


 Faults with System:  The fastest 80287 math coprocessor currently
                      available runs only at 8 MHZ, meaning that there
                      isn't an appropriate math chip for the 20 MHZ 80286.


 System #2
 ---------

      - Macintosh Plus with Radius Accelerator - Total Cost: $4100.00


       The Macintosh  Plus has a 7.83 MHZ Motorola 68000 chip, 1 Meg of RAM
 onboard, and 128K Mac ROMS.  To enhance this system, I have added a Radius
 Accelerator  16  Plus,  with  a  16  MHZ  68020  w/68881 Math Chip, one of
 MicroTech Inc.'s MicroSnap MacDIP 1 Megabyte  RAM boards,  boosting system
 memory to 2 Megs, and La Cie's Cirrus 70 Meg Hard Drive.  

       Also, I decided to use a Mac Plus instead of the newer Mac SE, which
 has 256K Mac ROMs, since the  Mac Plus/Radius  Accelerator combo  is up to
 2.5 times  faster than  a Mac  SE, and costs $3100.00, about the same as a
 standard Mac SE.  Oddly enough, since only the Mac II has Expansion boards
 capable of  using Color QuickDraw, the major feature of the 256K Mac ROMs,
 having 256K Mac ROMs isn't much of a benefit for the Mac SE....

 So, with this system you would have:

       Macintosh Plus w/1 Meg of RAM (Cost: $1800.00)     
       Radius Accelerator 16 Plus (Cost: $1300.00)
       1 MicroTech MicroSnap MacDIP 1 Mb RAM Board (Cost: $200.00)
       La Cie's Cirrus 70 Megabyte Hard Drive (Cost: $800.00)


 Macintosh SE Resolution:  512*342 in Monochrome Resolution.


 Faults with System:  Lacks a Color display, having a monochrome resolution
                      which is only adequate at best.  It is also
                      comparatively expensive....


 System #3
 ---------

       - Amiga 500 w/SubSystem 500 - Total Cost of System: $3299.00

       The base system is an Amiga 500 with  512K of  RAM, and  1 expansion
 slot which  can be  used as  a cartridge port.  Along with this would be a
 CSA Midget Racer board, which has a 14.32 MHZ 68020 w/68881 Math Chip, and
 a SubSystem  500 from  Pacific Peripherals,  which allows the Amiga 500 to
 use two Amiga 2000 Boards.   Also, a  M.A.S.T. Minimegs  RAM board  with 2
 Megs of  RAM onboard,  for 2.5  Megs of system RAM, and a 65 Megabyte Hard
 Drive from ABCO Inc., would be included.

 So, with this system you would have:

       Amiga 500 w/color monitor (Cost: $1000.00)
       CSA Midget Racer 68020 Accelerator Card (Cost: $500.00)
       Pacific Peripherals SubSystem 500 (Cost: $250.00)
       Minimegs RAM Card w/2 MB of RAM (Cost: $830.00)
       ABCO Inc. 65 Megabyte Hard Drive (Cost: $719.00)


 Amiga Resolutions: (Not including Overscan)

                   320*200 with 32 colors out of 4096
                   320*200 with 64 colors out of 4096 (Extra Half-Brite)
                   320*200 with 4096 colors at the same time (HAM Mode)
                   640*200 with 4 to 16 colors
                   640*400 with 2 to 16 colors (interlaced)


 Faults with System:  None whatsoever.  An EXCELLENT system....


 System #4
 ---------

      - Mega 2 ST w/Turbo-16 Accelerator Board - Total Cost: $3134.00

       This is a Mega 2 ST with 2 Megs of  RAM, 1  Expansion Slot,  and two
 Color and  Monochrome Monitors.  Along with this would be a Monitor Master
 from Practical Peripherals, to  handle  system  use  of  both  monitors, a
 Turbo-16 Accelerator  Board from  FAST Technologies, having a 16 MHZ 68000
 chip.  Also, a 65 Megabyte Hard Drive made by ABCO Inc. would be included,
 as well  as JRI's JS-4096 board, which can display 64 colors out of a 4096
 color palette, in low resolution.

 So, with this system you have:

       Mega 2 ST w/Color & Monochrome Monitors (Cost: $2000.00)
       Practical Peripherals' Monitor Master (Cost: $50.00)
       Turbo-16 Accelerator Board (Cost: $300.00)
       JRI JS-4096 Video Board (Cost: $75.00)
       ABCO Inc. 65 Megabyte Hard Drive (Cost: $719.00)

 Atari ST Resolution: 320*200 with 16 Colors out of 512
                      640*200 with 4  Colors out of 512
                      640*400 with Monochrome Resolution

 With JS-4096 Board:
                      320*200 with 64 Colors out of 4096

 Faults of System:  Could use more expansion slots.  A math coprocessor and
                    68020 support wouldn't hurt either....


 System #5
 ---------

   - Apple IIgs w/TransWarp GS Accelerator Board - Total Cost: $4170.00

       The base system is  an Apple  IIgs with  512K of  RAM, a  65816 chip
 which runs  at 2.8  MHZ, 3  Expansion Slots,  and a Color RGB Monitor.  In
 addition  to  this,  two  peripherals  made  by  Applied  Engineering, the
 TransWarp  GS  Accelerator  Board,  which  uses  a 7 MHZ 65816 chip, and a
 GS-RAM Memory Card, with 1.5 Megs  of  RAM  onboard,  would  be  added on.
 Also, a Western Digital Preference 40 Megabyte Hard Disk is included.


 So, with this system you have:

       Apple IIgs w/512K RAM, RGB Monitor (Cost: $1650.00)
       TransWarp GS Accelerator Board (Cost: $400.00)
       GS-RAM 1.5 Meg Memory Board (Cost: $920.00)
       Western Digital Preference 40 Megabyte Hard Drive (Cost: $1200.00)

 Atari ST Resolution: 320*200 with 32 Colors out of 4096
                      640*200 with 16 Colors out of 4096
                      640*400 with 4  Colors out of 4096

 Faults of System:  Is far too expensive for the features it provides....


      Notice I did not mention products that are not shipping yet, like the
 68030 TT, or products which have not been fully announced, such as Atari's
 new ST Laptop....

       In Part I of this series, I have given a list of the best affordable
 systems to currently be found in  the market,  and shown  their individual
 features.   In Part II these "Practical" Dream Systems will be compared to
 each other, in order to determine the "best" one.

       Based on this article  alone, you  could safely  say that  the Apple
 IIgs System is not a contender, given that every other system provides FAR
 greater capabilities for a lower price.  Also, it seems that the Macintosh
 System, while  still keeping  its power,  has greatly improved in terms of
 price/performance.  The IBM Dream System, while having great capabilities,
 isn't as  well priced  as before.  While both may not be affordable to ALL
 low-end computer users, they ARE priced well enough for a significant part
 of the low/middle end of the market.

       However, it  seems that the Amiga 500 System has broken ahead of the
 Mega 2 System in terms of performance, as  while it  is in  the same price
 range as  the Mega 2 ST System, it has greater speed and more RAM than the
 Mega 2.  Both of these systems pass the "Power Without the Price" criteria
 well,  as  they  are  the  least  expensive  systems in this list, and are
 equally powerful Dream Systems.  But given that  the Mac  and IBM Systems'
 cost is  now near  the same  price range as the Amiga and Mega ST systems,
 price/performance may be more important than ever in  determining the best
 system....

 But ponder, if you will, this question:

 1)   Will low/middle  end microcomputers  ever become indistinguishable in
 capabilities to high-end microcomputers?




 > CPU REPORT CONFIDENTIAL 
   -----------------------


 Morristown, NJ     Both the Open Software Foundation (OSF) and the new
 --------------     Unix International Inc., an alliance of companies who
                    support AT&T's control of Unix, have agreed to follow
                    the standards for Unix set by X/Open, an international
                    organization which has previously set basic standards
                    for different versions of Unix.

                    However, since OSF/1, the OSF's version of Unix, was
                    always designed to meet X/Open and POSIX standards, and
                    given that X/Open isn't likely to resolve the issue of
                    a standard Graphical User Interface for Unix....

 Cupertino, CA      Since the large demand for the Macintosh IIcx, a
 -------------      compact version of the Mac IIx, has caused both sales
                    of the Macintosh II to drop drastically, and strained
                    Apple's manufacturing operations, some industry
                    analysts expect Apple to stop producing the Mac II
                    within a few months, in order to make more Mac IIcx
                    computers.

                    Both the Mac IIx and the new IIcx use the 68030 chip,
                    while the Mac II uses the 68020.  Since Apple has said
                    that Release 7.0 of the System/Finder will use the
                    68030 chip to provide virtual memory, and stated that
                    Release 8.0 may only be compatible with the 68030, this
                    may be a step in making the 68030 the standard chip for
                    the Macintosh....

 Palo Alto, CA      Now that its merger with Apollo Computer is completed,
 -------------      Hewlett Packard has announced that it will integrate
                    Apollo's Network Computing System (NCS) for network
                    operations into its products by 1990.  This seems to be
                    part of HP's efforts to unify its product line with
                    Apollo's, while still maintaining support for current
                    computers.

                    As part of this, HP intends to make both its and
                    Apollo's workstations compatible with OSF/1, the first
                    release of the Open Software Foundation's new Unix
                    standard, by the end of 1990.  However, since HP plans
                    on producing a 68040-based workstation by that time,
                    HP may eventually discontinue Apollo workstation
                    products, and concentrate on its own offerings....

 Frankfurt, FDR     Siemens, a major West German computer maker, has agreed
 --------------     to ship 300,000 IBM Clones to the Soviet Union.  As
                    part of the agreement, which will be worth over
                    $500 million dollars over the next three years, Siemens
                    is providing training and education for the 8086 and
                    80286 systems.  Given that the Soviet Union has a VAST
                    demand for computers, especially in the educational, 
                    research, and business sectors, this should help both
                    the IBM PC's popularity there, and the dire need for
                    computers in Soviet society.  Oddly enough, it is said
                    that the Soviets chose Siemens PCs because of their
                    flexibility with paying options....






  _______________________________________________________________________



 > PRACTICAL! STReport InfoFile     Excellent support for Usergroups!!
   ============================



                           FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

                   NEW SUPPORT CLUB FOR ST USER GROUPS!

       Tucson, AZ.  Practical  Solutions has  initiated a  new program, the
 Atari  Computer  Enthusiasts  (ACE)  Support  Club,  for all Atari ST user
 Groups.  The ACE Support Club allows User Groups to  obtain one  free copy
 of each Practical Solutions' product for a one-time membership fee.

       Here's how  it works:   A  group wishing  to join  sends a Letter of
 Application, signed by an Officer of the User Group, along with a check or
 money order  for $25  and a request for their first product (only one at a
 time can be requested).   The  product of  their choice  is sent  FREE and
 becomes the  property of the User Group.  The User Group then presents the
 item at a regular group  meeting  and  subsequently  reviews  it  in their
 newsletter.

       When the  group is  ready to receive their next product, they simply
 send in a copy of their  newsletter where  the review  appeared with their
 next choice.   Their  Practical Solutions' product selection is then sent,
 again free of charge!  ACE Support Club membership limits a User  Group to
 one free copy of each product.

       Practical Solutions has always received support from User Groups and
 we feel that this is a way to show our appreciation for  their enthusiasm.
 The ACE  Support Club  gives us a chance to become more involved with User
 Groups whose existence is vital to the Atari ST community.   Their members
 direct feedback  is also immensely valuable in aiding the direction of all
 of our products and services.

            Letters of application and inquires can be sent to:

                         Practical Solutions, Inc.
                    Attn: ACE Support Club Coordinator
                            1135 N. Jones Blvd.
                             Tucson, AZ  85716
                           Phone: (602) 322-6100






  ______________________________________________________________________



 > A Release Date -  STR Feature      Why are delays so common place?
   =============================



                                                HOW ABOUT A DATE?
                                                =================


 by R.F. Mariano

     At my  age,  the  expression  ..How  about  a  Date?    Would,  in all
 probabilities mean;  perhaps you would care for some fruit?  (A Date, from
 the date palm tree..).  Actually,  it could  mean most  anything, but here
 and now,  the meaning  is simple to see.  For example, when a release date
 is set for a  new product  to debut,  everyone waits  with anticipation of
 enjoying the wonders of the new product(s).  Then we find that the date is
 set back for one reason or  another.   Usually, the  adjustments are quite
 justified.   Originally, most folks would expect this article to be highly
 critical of Atari.  Well... surprise, surprise!  For the last few weeks we
 have  been  checking  into  the  delays surrounding the release of the new
 products.  Pleasantly surprised, we are happy to say the  delays are going
 to more than worth the wait.

     This is  going to  be Atari's year!  Actually, it will be the first of
 many to come, we  at  STReport  are  willing  to  wager  that  this year's
 revelations  will   generate  more  excitement  than  when  the  ST  first
 appeared!!  So what if a few of the products are a little late!   Yup! You
 heard that  from me  <grin>.  No, please don't think wrong of me for being
 pro Atari, but there comes a time when  all the  cards in  play are called
 and believe  me, the  shakeout is  at hand.   Atari  will come  out of the
 background hands higher than the rest.

     In the past STReport has been, at times, highly critical  of Atari and
 certain of  it's practices  and procedures.  The record speaks for itself.
 Hopefully, somewhere along the line some  of what  we presented influenced
 the course  of the "current events" which are soon to be made known to all
 interested parties.

             ATARI IS DEFINITELY ON THE MOVE UPWARD & FORWARD!





  _______________________________________________________________________



 > HDX 3.01 STR Tech Notes  MAJOR Improvements of Atari Hard Disk Software
   =======================



                                                                 6/28/89


             Atari Advanced Hard Disk Utilities Release v3.01
                      Copyright  1989 Atari Corp.


 Atari Computers of Sunnyvale CA is  pleased  to  announce  the  release of
 version 3.01  of its  Hard Disk  Utilities package.  This new version will
 supercede all previous versions  of  this  software  package  and  will be
 packaged in all Megafile units made from this point on.

 This program may be copied and distributed freely as long as this ARC file
 is intact and the programs contained within are not changed or modified in
 any way.   Atari  Computers retains the right to modify and or change this
 program without notice.  This program and its related files  have not been
 released to the public domain.

                                 WARNING:

 Because some  units delivered between May 7th and July 1st may contain HDX
 v3.00 (diskette part number CA400307-002), it  is important  that any hard
 drive that  has had HINSTALL run from v3.00 be installed with version 3.01
 (diskette part number CA400307-003) at once.    Version  3.00  of  the HDX
 utilities contains  a serious  'bug' that  could leave data written to the
 hard drive in a scrambled and unusable condition.  Data  read in  from the
 hard drive  is not  affected.  Please follow the directions outlined below
 for installing a new autoboot driver  on  your  hard  drive  to  cure this
 problem.

 Note:  
 Both 3.00  and 3.01  remove the  previous size  limit of  16 megabytes per
 partition, however, using partition sizes  larger  than  16  megabytes may
 cause some  'disk doctors,' hard drive 'de-fragmenting' programs, or image
 backup programs to  operate  improperly.    Please  consult  the companies
 marketing  these  programs  and  test  them with sample data that will not
 matter if lost or scrambled.

 The HDX301.ARC file should contain:

       AUTO.ARC          <---- Contains files needed for AUTO folder
       HDX.ARC           <---- Contains files needed for HDX folder
       HINSTALL.ARC      <---- Contains files needed for HINSTALL folder
       README.1ST        <---- This file you are reading


 The AUTO.ARC file should contain:

       AHDI.PRG          <---- Floppy hard drive boot program
       FOLDR100.PRG      <---- Increases system folder limit


 The HDX.ARC file should contain:

       HDX.PRG           <---- hard drive utility program
                               (format, partition etc)
       HDX.RSC           <---- Resource file for HDX.PRG
       SHIP.PRG          <---- Parks hard drive for moving
       WINCAP            <---- Data file for HDX.PRG


 The HINSTALL.ARC file should contain:

       COLDBOOT.PRG      <---- Restarts your ST
       HINSTALL.PRG      <---- Installs your hard drive as autobooting
                               device
       HINSTALL.RSC      <---- Resource file for HINSTALL.PRG
       SHDRIVER.RAW      <---- Date file for HINSTALL.PRG


 Please unARC the files into the appropriate folders on a blank floppy disk
 in drive A:

 The  HDX,  HINSTALL,  and  AHDI  programs  are  the  same as found in your
 original hard drive boot disk with the following exceptions:


 o   More than four (4) partitions per hard  drive are  now supported.   No
     upper limit to partitions.

 o    Partitions can now be larger than 16 megabytes.  Maximum size is     
     now either drive capacity or one (1) gigabyte, whichever is smaller.

 o   Removable media is now supported (i.e.: Megafile 44).

 o   The markbad option in HDX is now more effective in detecting bad
     sectors on media.

  To install your existing Atari Hard Drive with HDX v3.01 (autobooting):
  =======================================================================

 o   Re-boot your system with HDX 3.01 in drive A:

 o   Double-click on the floppy icon for drive A:

 o   Next, double-click on the folder icon labeled HINSTALL.  Locate and
     execute the HINSTALL.PRG file within that folder.

 o   Install the autoboot file on your hard drive following the
     directions in your Megafile manual.

 o   Last, exit HINSTALL and execute the COLDBOOT.PRG file found within
     the same folder.

 o   The computer will now re-boot with HDX 3.01 installed.

 o   DO NOT place the AHDI.PRG file inside the AUTO folder of your
     autobooting hard drive (drive C:).

  To install your existing Atari Hard Drive with HDX v3.01 (floppy boot):
  =======================================================================

 o   Re-boot your system with HDX 3.01 in drive A:

 o   Double-click on the floppy icon for drive A:

 o   Next, double-click on the folder icon labeled HINSTALL.  Locate and
     execute the HINSTALL.PRG file within that folder.

 o   Remove the autoboot file on your hard drive following the
     directions in your Megafile manual.

 o   Last, exit HINSTALL and execute the COLDBOOT.PRG file found within
     the same folder.

 o   The computer will now re-boot with HDX 3.01 installed.

 o   Make sure a copy of the new AHDI.PRG is in the AUTO folder of whatever
     disk is  in drive  A: at  power-up or  re-boot time.  DO NOT place the
     AHDI.PRG file inside the AUTO folder of your hard drive (drive C:).





  ______________________________________________________________________



 > Red Lightning!  STR Review   The beginning of a New Era for SSI...
   ==========================


                                                JUST FOR OPENERS...
                                                ====================


 by Ron Brunk


    I originally intended to do a full review of this  latest strategy game
 from SSI,  however the  sheer magnitude of the scope of this game prevents
 me from doing it justice based  on a  few days  experience.   Therefore, I
 intend to give you an overall summary of the game at this time, and follow
 up with a detailed review later.

     Red Lightning was developed by Norm Koger (who's first effort, another
 complex  strategy  game  called  "Stellar  Crusade",  never  achieved  the
 recognition many feel it deserved).  It is a simulation of what  the first
 month of  a war  in north-central europe in the early 1990's would be (not
 taking current troop reduction talks into account, of course).  References
 cited are  from Janes  Publishing, recognized as an authority in all areas
 of military hardware.  The complexity of RL ranges from  very simple (just
 move the  armies and  let them fight) to extremely complex.  Complexity is
 increased by taking control  of options  that are  otherwise controlled by
 the computer.  Some of these options include:

     Limited  intelligence:  determines  whether  the human player sees the
 entire board, or is limited to  intelligence received  from satellites and
 recon missions.

     Air  Campaign:  individual  air  assets  can be assigned to particular
 missions  (air   superiority,   strike   missions,   ground   support,  or
 reconnaissance) or can be controlled by the computer.

     Sub-division deployments: The readiness (forward, reserve, or rest) of
 individual units can be set manually or, once again, left to the computer.

     Pact competence: 5 selectable levels affect  the PACT  (Warsaw) units'
 rate of recovery from fatigue, combat modifiers, and the computer player's
 intelligence.

     Chemical Weapons: allowing the use of these favors the PACT player due
 to the extent that the real Warsaw Pact has prepared for it.

     Season: the weather (which changes from day to day) affects many areas
 of combat.  The season chosen  affects the  predominant weather  that will
 occur.

     North  Atlantic/Special  Ops:  battle  in  the  North sea, Norway, and
 Iceland affect conditions at the front in Europe.  You  have an  option to
 divert assets  to this  campaign, or  allow the  computer to run the whole
 show.  The special ops option also allows you to land marines  or airborne
 units, or  assign special  forces to sabotage/recon missions.  This option
 also allows the use of tactical  battlefield missiles  by the  PACT player
 only.

     While the  above list  of options  seems rather intimidating, they can
 all be de-selected to allow a simple first  game, and  then phased  in for
 subsequent games as the player becomes familiarized with game play.  

     Although I don't want to go into too much detail at this time, I would
 like to note that resolution of  battles is  very realistic,  not just "my
 big tank  stomps on  your little  tank".  In fact, most battles that occur
 are a whittling down process that creates weak  points which  can be later
 exploited.    Some  of  the  factors  that affect a battle (other than the
 weapons involved) are:

          Whether the defending unit is dug in or moving

          Type of terrain the defender is on

          Artillery support within 2 hexes

          Air support

          Weather

          Readiness and deployment levels of sub-units

          Battle modifiers

          Survivability of each sub unit

          Existence of chemical weapons

     While the above list is, once  again, rather  intimidating, it  is all
 done automatically by the computer.  Exact equations are in the appendices
 for those into that type of thing.  While they  are not  required reading,
 knowledge  of  how  each  factor  affects combat will help tremendously in
 planning combats.

     Well, that's enough for now.  If this type of game is your cup  of tea
 (and it  probably is  if you  are still  reading at this point) I strongly
 recommend you take a good look at this program at your local  dealer.  Or,
 stay tuned for the full review to come.


      


   _____________________________________________________________________



 > Atari Stock ~ STReport
   ======================


                                                   THE TICKERTAPE
                                                   ==============


 by Glenn Gorman



    Atari Stock  dropped 1/4 of a point on Wednesday, and up 3/8 on Friday.
 Finishing up the week at 8 3/8 points.  No change from  the previous week.
 The markets were closed for the July 4th holiday.


                                                            Glenn Gorman

                          +---------------------+
                          |  ATARI STOCK WATCH  |
                          | Week 07-03 to 07-07 |
 +=======+==========+===========+=============+============+=============+
 |       |  Monday  |  Tuesday  |  Wednesday  |  Thursday  |  Friday     |
 +-------+----------+-----------+-------------+------------+-------------+
 | Sales |     606  |     ----  |        406  |       505  |    1179     |
 +-------+----------+-----------+-------------+------------+-------------+
 | Last  |   8 3/8  |    -----  |      8 1/8  |     8 1/8  |   8 3/8     |
 +-------+----------+-----------+-------------+------------+-------------+
 | Chg.  |    ----  |     ----  |       -1/4  |      ----  |    +1/4     |
 +=======+==========+===========+=============+============+=============+
 | From > THE CAVE ST BBS <> 609-882-9195 <> 300/14400 HST <> F-NET #351 |
 +=======================================================================+





  _______________________________________________________________________



 > FUNCTIONZ! STReport InfoFile     An idea whose time has come...
   ============================



                       Regent Software Introduces...
                                Functionz!
                     The Function Key Labeling System

    The  idea  of  keyboard  templates  has  been  around  since  the first
 computer operator stuck  a  post-it  note  to  the  side  of  his computer
 terminal.   Templates are already available for most of the major computer
 programs out there.  Some  software  publishers  even  include  a template
 with their word processors and databases.

    Functionz takes  the idea  of templates  one step further.  The problem
 with most templates is they only work with one program.   We  designed the
 Functionz  plastic  label  stands  to  slide  easily  into  your  computer
 keyboard;  When you change programs, just pull out one Functionz stand and
 insert another one.

    The Functionz   program  disk brings unusual functionality and power to
 an otherwise inexpensive computer accessory.  You will find all  the usual
 drop-down menus and windows, plus text may be selected using the mouse and
 a special Clipboard for cut, copy and paste functions.

    Recorded on the Functionz disk is  a collection  of predefined function
 key   labels.   Just load  a label file and print.  Plus additional labels
 can be found on Compuserve and GEnie.  We've also  taken the  paper out of
 our program  by adding  a full-function  HELP menu  to the  menubar.  Free
 technical support is provided to registered users.

    Functionz is guaranteed not to crash or bomb.   Hundreds  of hours have
 been spent  testing and  debugging the  program.   The result is a mature,
 well crafted program that is ready for you to use now!

    The  complete  function  key  labeling  system   includes  6  specially
 engineered plastic  label stands,  label maker  program disk, and complete
 instructions  for  only  $24.95 list.   The  Functionz Supply  Package has
 an additional 8 plastic label stands for only $13.95.

    Functionz will bring you improved productivity and less stress the next
 time you have to use your computer keyboard.

                                Sincerely,
                                Frank Cohen
                         Founder, Regent Software


    P.S.  - If ordering direct from Regent Software please add $2 per  unit
 for  shipping.    California  addresses  must  add  6.5% State Sales  Tax.
 Personal and business checks accepted.  U.S. Dollar funds only.   Canadian
 orders add  $3 per  unit for shipping.  All other international orders add
 $5 per unit for shipping.

                             Regent Software 
                              P.O. Box 14628 
                         Long Beach, CA 90803-1208
                Phone: (213) 439-9664   FAX: (213) 434-2310

    



  _______________________________________________________________________



 > SHAREWARE  STR Feature    For whom the Bell Tolls, We mustn't forget
   ----------------------


                                                  "IT'S A FAMILY AFFAIR"
                                                  ======================


 Dear Ralph:

     Thank you for your interest in my fonts.  I  read the  ST REPORT where
 you called me a 'font fiend', and don't know whether to be sorry or happy.
 It can be taken in two ways.  From my wife's point  of view,  a font fiend
 is like a opium fiend, a strong addiction to something with little purpose
 except pipe dreams.  I have learned not to wake her at 3:00 AM to show her
 the progress that I have made in a particularly unusual font.

     (Unfortunately, I  really did  need the  help, since after 2 AM, I did
 tend to forget to kern the letters properly, and often  needed to  turn my
 monitor on  its side  so that I could see what I was doing.)  However, the
 last thing that she sees before she goes to bed is several  new characters
 of a  font, and  the first  thing that  she sees when she wakes up is more
 characters.

     And now we are having series fights over fonts, how  they should look,
 what the  shapes of  the various  letters should be.  I like fat 'O's.  To
 me, a little meat on an  O is  beautiful, it  gives you  something to grab
 hold  of,  it  catches  your  eye  when you read it.  However, slimness is
 endemic among females.  My daughter  gangs up  on me  and takes  my wife's
 side on  the O's.   "What other letter would want to be next to such a fat
 O.  Daddy, please make it  slim and  beautify."   Even neighbor's children
 would come  in, look at several of my favorite letters, poke each other in
 the ribs and start snickering at one another.

     My wife's last criticism is all the time that I  have spent  on fonts.
 First I  started writing  GDOS fonts,  taking FONTZ! and making lovely 300
 dpi fonts for laser printers.  Next I started to translate them  into soft
 fonts for  HP laser jet II printers.  I got up to 25 megabytes of fonts on
 disks scattered all over the place.    I  generated  solid  fonts, outline
 fonts, textured  fonts, and  even several  plaids.  Now I am doing Calamus
 fonts, from the various  DOVER  books  of  fonts.    With  only  500 fonts
 illustrated in  those books, and at the rate of 1.5 fonts per week, I will
 transfer all of the fonts into Calamus style fonts in less than six years.

     Now she  is asking  if I  will get  rich on the fonts.  I really don't
 think so.  I have  been  keeping  track  on  GENIE  and  about  250 people
 download these  fonts per week.  Less than 1% of them have sent in for the
 rest of the missing letters in the fonts.   I  think that  this is because
 the ATARI  community does  not realize  how much it must support Shareware
 authors, otherwise, large corporations will decide what is and what is not
 to be  published.   My wife  thinks it  is because of my fat 'O's.  Ralph,
 please make a judgement.

                                                       Thank you.

                                                       Sol Guber


 PS; Should I leave the 'O's out of the demos just in case?


 Ed. note,  actually, Sol is the "FONT GURU"  <<grin>>

  



                                      
   _____________________________________________________________________



 > Mail Order Low Ballers! STReport FOCUS    Are they good for the market?
   ======================================


                                                  QUICK PROFIT ARTISTS
                                                  ====================
 by R.F. Mariano


     The burning issue on hand  is  the  typical  "PRICE  RAPIST"  found in
 almost all mail order configurations.  We are in full agreement with Holly
 Stowe RT/SYSOP on GEnie when she  relates to  the mail  order slaughter of
 realistic retail  pricing of hardware in the ST market place.  The vicious
 practices of a number  of east  coast, price  slashing, mail  order houses
 who, while  trying to  appear as  standup storefront dealers, seem to rely
 upon the basic fact  that the  dealers and  affectionados will  assume the
 responsibility of  both minor  and major support of those who purchase the
 cut rate product.

     Truly, the user is the clear looser in these price  mongering affairs.
 For example,  the ST  userbase lost an excellent company on the west coast
 Astra...because of,  as  Lou  put  it,  "price  slashing,  that  takes the
 profitability out  of the  sale".  Users, please be warned, competition is
 the healthiest situation  one  can  ask  for,  competition  does  not come
 strictly  in  price!    Forget  the  John's  Bargain  Store  junk.    Real
 competition is not in  price  wars!    It's  in  service,  repair, quality
 products and  development of new products.  Where can a company, like say,
 Astra justify R&D for new goodies when they are getting  their throats cut
 by low ball artists who are only interested in the super quick profit line
 and not the long haul.  Never, in 'any' marketplace has there been one LOW
 BALL outfit  that lasted more than 3 years!  The sad part is, they take so
 many good, honest and conscientious firms with them.  

     The best example is the dealers we had for the Atari lines a few years
 ago, when  the mail  order cut  throats got  done, Atari had less than 200
 dealers nationwide!  Atari almost lost the whole ball of  wax.   Of course
 in  the  process,  many  dealers  closed their doors forever and many more
 swore never to carry Atari again.   When  asked why  they would  not carry
 Atari again the answer was always the same; "we will not carry any product
 whose manufacturer allows it's dealers to be clobbered  by cut  throat low
 ball artists". 

     In today's  marketplace, we  find that  there are schmaltz low ballers
 attempting to make sure the hard drive marketplace  narrows to  one or two
 "outlets" and  not much  more.   If the users continue to buy strictly for
 price, they soon will learn the  real  cost  will  be  in  the aftermarket
 service  and/or  repairs.    Sure,  there are those who say full guarantee
 etc... but, the fine print that often is not presented says a  bunch more.
 Or better  yet, does  that guarantee also mean that the low baller will be
 in business at the time the  service is  needed?   Or, will  those who are
 still  barely  in  the  business  as  a  result  of  the lowballer's slimy
 practices be left with, "the only right thing  to do",  helping those with
 downed equipment.   ie; where do the owners of Astra products go now?  So,
 go right ahead Mr. User, be the smart buyer and  buy for  the lowest price
 you can get....go for it, and cast another vote for the demise of genuine,
 full service, competition.

     The Hard Disk industry is still  in it's  embryonic development stages
 and will  be for some time to come, when it does stabilize, we are sure to
 find that the day of the lowballer will be history.  In the meantime, you,
 the users, can bring about the stabilization needed simply by being a more
 sophisticated shopper.  Please do not shop for any of  your computer needs
 only by the lowest price, if not, ultimately you will, unwittingly, be the
 real victims.





  ______________________________________________________________________



 > EMBEDDED CONTROLLERS STReport InfoFile    Are they really for you?
   ======================================



                                                 TO EACH HIS OWN!
                                                 ================

 by William J. Walker


     Controllers for hard disks  are the  "brains" of  the system,  and for
 many of  us the  controllers have  been; Winchester, Adaptek and recently,
 OMTI.  Back in the 8 bit days, the "big" deal was the ST225n hard disk, we
 saw them  in the  Supra units  and others...  by now, most of us know what
 the "N" means.  If not, it means; "this unit has an  embedded (integrated)
 controller".   We hear from many circles that the "N" type drives are more
 reliable and easier to handle... to a point, this is  true.  Unfortunately
 by stating  that the  "N" or embedded drives may be more reliable than the
 more common drive/controller combination,  can  give  rise  to  cause many
 potential first  time purchasers  of a hard disk system to become somewhat
 further confused.  The point is that; in the embedded  unit, there  are no
 extra ribbon  cables and  connectors involved nor, are there the shielding
 and cable routing problems to  deal  with  and  that  these  are  the main
 considerations  in  the  reliability  curve.    There  are, however, other
 considerations that must be brought into play:
  
     ANY hard disk mechanism  using  an  embedded  controller,  ("N" type),
 occupies a  full SCSI address (each mechanism).  Example: In an over/under
 cabinet we have two "N" type drives, the address' would be SCSI  0, LUN 0;
 SCSI 1,  LUN 0.   In the same cabinet we now have two Identical Mechanisms
 that are NOT "N" types but use an external controller the address would be
 SCSI 0  LUN 0  & LUN  1 ,  the difference  being, only one SCSI address is
 occupied!!  Since there is a limited amount  of address'  available, it is
 wise to  seriously consider  choosing between  the use of the N type drive
 or, the drive/controller combination.    The  drive/controller combination
 permits up to (4) FOUR drives per SCSI address.  New products are becoming
 available for the ST, and many of them use the  DMA port.   Each  of these
 products will  require an  address of their own.  Choosing wisely now will
 avoid the dilemma of running out of addressing later on.

     And please remember, you get what you pay  for.   By the  way, the "N"
 type drive  is cheaper  to assemble, less ribbon cables and connectors are
 needed and of course, there is no controller card, shields  or extra power
 connectors involved.  Please, choose wisely.

     On  the   other  hand,   we  find  that  the  benefits  of  using  the
 controller/drive combination outweigh the appropriate efforts that must be
 taken to produce a credible Hard Disk System. 
  
     A)-  Less  SCSI  addresses  occupied.    The  Embedded "N" type drives
          require a separate SCSI address for EACH mechanism.  
                          (only 7 are available)
  
     B)- In certain cases, the roms used in the "N"  drives have  created a
          good deal of consternation on the part of the users.
  
     C)- Controller/Drive combo systems yield MORE storage per mechanism.
  
     D)- In  most cases,  the Rate  HD program  clearly shows  non "N" type
          drives are somewhat faster.
  
     E)- In terms of servicing, the  non  "N"  type  drives  are relatively
          easier to service in the field (as far as controller problems are
          concerned).

     In summation,  the future  may very  well be  in the  direction of the
 embedded controller,  what with  the ESDI systems etc.. for now though, we
 are all in the present, not the future, and the controller/drive combo, at
 this time, offers more benefits and flexibility to the user.
   
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------



 > F-NET STReport OnLine    Reader Mail, "telling it like it is...."
   =====================




         I enjoy  ST Report  and hope  you will  continue to circulate your
 interesting and thought provoking  electronic magazine.   I'm  sure I echo
 the thoughts  of many  of your  readers when  I say that you do accomplish
 much in keeping the Atari community informed.

         I do, however, take  issue with  some of  your editorial positions
 and those  expressed in several articles you have published.  For the last
 several issues of STR, you have emphasized that Atari is  on the  move and
 that the  Atari community needs to halt the habit of Atari bashing; that a
 united Atari community is the best for all.  Well....I don't agree.

         Conflict _can be_ healthy.  Honest discussion of pros and  cons of
 any issue  usually benefits  all participants.  Using that theme, if Atari
 is wrong  or  failing  in  some  way,  the  issues  should  be  raised and
 discussed.   Such a discourse may seem divisive, but as each of us defines
 truth in terms of our own experiences, adding the experiences of others to
 our knowledge base expands our concepts.

         Conversely,  there  is  nothing  more  unproductive to any task or
 endeavor than what I call a "yes man".  We've all met them.  These are the
 people who  contribute nothing  to any discussion, they just execute their
 tasks, even if they feel that mistakes  are  being  made.    They  seek to
 ingratiate themselves personally with those in charge and whether for lack
 of moral courage  or  unbounded  ambition,  they  never  state  an opinion
 counter to their supervisors.

         ST Report  has made its reputation by not being an organization of
 "yes men".  You have reported events and evaluated their  meaning in terms
 of your  own experiences  and have not held back.  The criticisms you have
 leveled have been mostly  on target  and worth  saying.   I sincerely hope
 that your  recent emphasis  on cohesiveness  in the  Atari community isn't
 heralding the end of your "tell it like it is" approach to reporting.

         Is Atari _really_ on  the move?   If  so, perhaps  it's to  a city
 other than  Sunnyvale, but  I see  no concrete evidence of "moving" toward
 anything new.  Many Atari bashers  are devoted  Atari Computer enthusiasts
 who would  like nothing  better than  to see  Atari take  the US by storm.
 However, long experience with Atari has caused us  to develop  a "wait and
 see" attitude,  or as  we say  in Missouri, "show me".  Regardless of what
 has been announced by Atari or shown at various Expo's,  the Atari product
 line ends  with the  Mega, just  as it  has for over a year.  The proof is
 what is ON the dealer's shelves in the  US now.   I'm  not suggesting that
 the new  machines announced won't be released, just that like the new TOS,
 I'll accept it when my dealer has one to sell me.  A product  in the hands
 of  developers  or  a  prototype  on  display  at  an industry show is not
 something "I" can buy.

         Where is all this  promised  Atari  support?    What  has _really_
 changed?   I submit  that _nothing_  has changed  except the  style of the
 rhetoric  because  of  a  new  spokesman.    Where  is  all  this promised
 advertising in  the US?   Perhaps  it's sitting  in the same folder as the
 promised media blitz before last Christmas's retail season.  People do not
 buy what  they don't  know exists.   User Group efforts can only go so far
 and  while  this  word  of  mouth  effort  may  be  cheap   and  effective
 advertising, it's  woefully inadequate  to the task of re-emergence in the
 US market.

         But why isn't Atari advertising?   There are  marketing text books
 full of  how to  advertise and  why.  The concept is not foreign to Atari.
 Perhaps the real problem is one of differing  goals.   The average Atarian
 sits here  in wonderment at the size of the US market, knowing Atari could
 sell far more machines with effective  advertising.   Our goal  is to have
 Atari become  a prominent  force in the US computer marketplace which will
 bring software developers back in the  Atari  market  as  well.    We want
 sophisticated  applications  software  that  will  push the machine to its
 limits.  These are our goals as users and we're  impatient.   But what are
 Atari's goals?

         In  fairness,  I  assume  that  our  impatient  time line for goal
 achievement is far shorter  than Atari's.   All  we have  to do  is dream.
 Unfortunately,  Atari  is  hampered  by  the  details  of  reality and the
 practicality of achieving those goals.  I also  believe that  Atari's goal
 is not  as grandiose nor as far reaching as ours.  I believe their goal is
 restrictive and conservative, such as "having xx machines in the US by the
 end of  next year".  Do you see the significant difference?  With our goal
 of taking over a significant portion of the market share in the  next year
 (remember, this  is our  emotions talking, not necessarily cold logic), we
 would set entirely different objectives than we would if we  only wanted a
 conservative number  of "xx machines by year end".  We would have national
 advertising in  all  media  (in  our  make  believe  world,  we  also have
 unlimited resources),  we'd promote  the excellent Atari Software by third
 party developers (software sells  machines,  not  vice-versa)  as  well as
 Atari software,  we'd bend  over backwards  for developers in technical as
 well as equipment support, and we'd support our  users and  User Groups to
 the nth degree.

         But, alas,  the real  Atari does  have limited resources and those
 resources will determine what  goals are  possible and  just as important,
 how far  away goal  achievement is  targeted.  What we don't know, is what
 Atari's real goals are (not the ones they publicize) and how soon.   If we
 assume that  Jack Tramiel is a smart businessman, then we also must assume
 that what Atari is actually doing, vice what they are saying, is revealing
 Atari's real  purpose and  method.  Why?  Because smart businessmen are in
 control of what their company does.  Things don't just happen on their own
 in well controlled organizations.

         In spite  of all the announcements, shows, and hype, what is Atari
 actually doing?   Where  do you  see their  products and  how numerous are
 they?   How much display space is devoted to those products where you find
 them?  How  much  advertising  do  you  see  on  television,  in magazines
 (computer  and  other  types),  in  newspapers?  Are there any projects of
 public interest  gaining them  free advertising  through normal journalism
 efforts?  What kind of support are they providing to all Users Groups (not
 just those who do shows for them)?  How well are they supporting those who
 buy their  products?   How well are they supporting third party developers
 and software publishing houses?  Are they producing products that are well
 made  and  long  lasting?    Do  they  operate  error  free?   Are product
 announcements followed by a timely  and  well  coordinated  release?   Are
 dealers treated well and are their orders shipped to them promptly?

         By now you should see my point that Atari's goals are far short of
 what we as the "Atari Community" would like to see.  Is  this wrong?   Not
 necessarily, but  limited long range goals produce even more limited short
 range efforts and objectives.   I'll  have to  take Commander  Data's line
 from Star Trek and say that, "I have insufficient information available to
 form an hypothesis.", about their long range goals.  I  would, however, be
 willing to  bet that  their goals  are no where near as extensive as those
 desired by the user community.

         We in the user  base should  be watchful  and critical  and try to
 garner  the  information  from  events  that  will help us predict Atari's
 goals.  We should examine their announcements/pronouncements carefully and
 look for  the proof  in corporate  action, not  in their  rhetoric.  If we
 don't like the sum of the  information our  examination provides,  then we
 had better  be vocal  and speak  out loudly.   Who knows, Atari might even
 listen.

                                Doc Holiday
                  Flash BBS, St. Louis, MO. F-Net System

 Editor Note:
     Doc, "yes men" we will never be!  Of that, you can  be sure.   However
 we  do  believe  in  giving  Atari  a  chance, especially with her new and
 "dynamic" leadership.  One point is  difficult to  dismiss, the  top Atari
 execs  all  own  stock  and  have  stock  options  that  are hinged on the
 performance of Atari.  Besides, Sig Hartmann made it very  clear that this
 year it HAD to happen if it were to happen at all.  Based on that premise,
 we encourage the userbase to wait  out the  next few  weeks.   We too have
 expressed  the  feelings  of  "they  have  told  us enough about the labor
 pains...now, for heaven's sake ..SHOW US THE BABY ALREADY!!"   We have the
 feeling we  are going  to see  the whole  dadgum nursery!   That means new
 products and policies......and perhaps a few neat surprises. 


   


  _______________________________________________________________________



 > ST REPORT CONFIDENTIAL   "The Bottom Line..."
   ======================



 - New York City, N.Y.                        ****  STACY RELEASED??  ****
   -------------------

     The Scandinavian Countries... Denmark?  Well, mind you now, this  is a
 rumor, a  rather strong  rumor though,  that the Stacy is available in the
 Scandinavian Countries...  Additionally,  we have  from the  same reliable
 source, that  the first  STACY units are promised to those who have strong
 ties to the music  fields and  those who  have been  closely involved with
 Atari and  it's Midi fields.  We applaud this loyalty to those who support
 Atari  and  it's  US  endeavors  and  certainly  encourage  this  positive
 interaction  between  Atari  and  the special interest groups dedicated to
 promoting Atari's best interests.



 - Washington, D.C.                **** ENHANCED ST TO COMPLIMENT TT!! ****
   ----------------

     The Enhanced ST? - the ST Plus (The European Name), once again, simply
 rumor.   However, it is reported that the Enhanced ST will be a moderately
 priced, 1 - 4mb  ST having  stereo output  and 4096  colors.   Also, these
 machines are  alleged to  be compatible with the TT as will be the rest of
 the ST lines. 


 - Miami, FL.       ***** ACTIVISION RELEASES "THE REAL GHOSTBUSTERS" *****
   ----------

     The Real Ghostbusters, based on  the  afternoon  cartoon  show, offers
 great  two  player  action  comprised basically of the shootem-up commando
 type games.  The graphics are colorful and  move quite  well.   The sounds
 are terrif!  Ghostbusters!  The screen scrolls in eight directions and the
 action is likely to  occurs in  almost location  imaginable, ie; rooftops,
 the desert etc..  this is a fun game.



 - San Francisco, CA.                      **** POPULOUS IS AMAZING!! ****
   ------------------

     So you  want to  play God?   Here  is your chance!  Populous is one of
 those games that will become  more  fun  as  you  develop  your  skills in
 playing the game.  The feeling of power is very evident, ie; watching your
 opponent create a vast population, only to have it devastated  by you with
 an earthquake,  volcano or flood.  The graphics are superbly presented and
 the attention payed to detail  is  of  the  highest  level.    Populous is
 definitely in  a world of it's own, you will enjoy every minute of playing
 it.  Electronic Arts has outdone themselves with this one....



 - San Diego, CA                    ***** UPGRADE THAT FALCON SYSTEM! *****
   -------------

     Here's the official Spectrum HoloByte Atari  ST FALCON  upgrade policy
 for version  1.1!!!   Customer Support  will be mailing out notices to all
 registered owners as soon as version 1.1 is released.   The upgrade notice
 will  also  inform  all  owners  that  version the missions disks are also
 available.  If you  want only  the upgrade  to version  1.1, it  will cost
 $7.50.    In  return,  you  will  receive  a new Disk 1 along with a short
 addendum to  the manual.   For  those customers  who were  notified of the
 upgrade price  quoted before,  they will  be honoring it through September
 15th.  

     The mission disks for  FALCON will  be released  shortly after version
 1.1.  The mission disks will offer new landscapes, new ground targets, new
 enemy planes, and of course, new missions.  The mission  disks will retail
 for $24.95.   In  return, the  customer will  receive not only the mission
 Disk 1 but also the upgrade  to version  1.1 along  with documentation for
 both new disks.



 - Baltimore, MD.              ***** BIG BUX SLATED FOR PORTFOLIO ADS *****
   --------------

     According  to  informed  sources  in  the advertising fields Atari has
 slated a cool 14 million  dollars  to  be  used  in  familiarizing  the US
 Marketplace with the new Portfolio.  That ought to make the Atari name and
 computers somewhat more recognizable.





   _____________________________________________________________________



 > STReport InfoFile     High Quality, Custom constructed hard drives....
   =================



                      ABCO COMPUTER ELECTRONICS INC.
                               P.O. Box 6672
                     Jacksonville, Florida 32236-6672
                                Est.  1985
                 _________________________________________

                   Voice: 904-783-3319  10 AM - 4 PM EDT
                     BBS: 904-786-4176   12-24-96 HST
                    FAX: 904-783-3319  12 PM - 6 AM EDT
                 _________________________________________
                                        
                   HARD DISK SYSTEMS TO FIT EVERY BUDGET
                   _____________________________________
                                        
   All systems are complete and ready to use, included at NO EXTRA COST
                 are clock/calendar and cooling blower(s).
                                        
              ALL ABCO HARD DISK SYSTEMS ARE FULLY EXPANDABLE
                 (you are NOT limited to two drives ONLY!)
                   (all cables and connectors installed)
                                        
                    SEAGATE HARD DISK MECHANISMS ONLY! 

                          ICD HOST ADAPTERS USED
                                EXCLUSIVELY

                  * ADAPTEK 4000/4070/5500 CONTROLLERS *

                      * OMTI HIGH SPEED CONTROLLERS *
                                        
  42mb #SG44710   569.00 - (1) mech    65mb #SG60101   729.00 - (1) mech
  85mb #SG840110  949.00 - (2) mech   132mb #SG3A1210 1149.00 - (2) mech

               ***  264mb #SGT41776 1889.00 - (4) mech  ***

        The above are just a few of the types of systems available.
    (over sixty configurations are available, flexibility is unlimited)
                                        
      * Embedded controller ("N" type) drives - Special Order Only *


            *** ALL Units: Average Access Time: 26ms - 30ms ***

    ALL UNITS COMPATIBLE WITH --> MAGIC SAC - PC-DITTO/II - SPECTRE/GCR
                                        
             LARGER units are available - (special order only)

                                        
                 ***  Available for ST - Amiga - IBM   ***
                                        
                 LOWBOY - STANDARD - DUAL BLOWER CABINETS
              FAST Cabinets  - Custom Walnut WOODEN Cabinets
                         TOWER - AT - XT Cabinets

                      * ALL POWER SUPPLIES UL APPROVED *

                  12 month FULL, UNCONDITIONAL Guarantee
                         (A FULL YEAR of COVERAGE)

                   WE SHIP WITH * FEDERAL EXPRESS * ONLY
                   _____________________________________

                       Personal Checks are accepted.

                              ORDER YOURS TODAY!

                       904-783-3319    9am - 8pm EDT





  ______________________________________________________________________



 > A "Quotable Quote"
   =================



        "The Despondency of a Scion engenders grevious retribution 
                 ....of the highest order and magnitude!"

  


                             "ATARI IS BACK!"

 --------------------------------------------------------------------------
 ST-REPORT  Issue #96   "Your Independent News Source"       July 14, 1989
                    ALL RIGHTS RESERVED  copyright 1989
 --------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Views, Opinions and Articles Presented herein are not necessarily those of
 the  editors,  staff,  ST  Report   or CPU Report .  Reprint permission is
 hereby granted, unless otherwise noted.    All  reprints  must  include ST
 Report or  CPU Report  and the  author's name.   All information presented
 herein is believed correct, STReport or CPU Report, it's editors and staff
 are not responsible for any use or misuse of information contained herein.
 --------------------------------------------------------------------------
