RJScott: Good evening! For Q-Link, I'd like to welcome Jim Butterfield, known in many areas as "Mr. Commodore" because of his vast knowledge of the product. Jim is here tonight to answer your questions regarding Commodore products. Hello Jim, good to "see" you again.
Buttrfield: I'm ready whenever you are. Good evening. If you're new to this kind of session… …remember that I'm very busy at this end, looking at questions… ..and getting answers ready. If you ask a question, it waits in a queue until I see it… ..so depending on how many questions are waiting, your answer might take a while.
QuestionHi! Got a quick question for you. I am writing an APL interpreter for the '128 and desire to use the math routines in the basic ROM. I have figured out how to use most of them but the one for converting floating point to ASCII (located at $AF09) is giving me a hard time. Do you know how to tell it where in memory the ASCII string is stored? I would apprecieate any help you can give me.
Buttrfield: (We're starting on a highly technical question, folks… …don't let it scare you … DUMB questions are also welcome). As I recall, the ASCII values are stored at the start of page 1… ..that's hex $0100 or decimal 256 … ..a binary zero usually follows the last digit. Email me if trouble continues.
QuestionAnything NEW U R working on NOW!!??
Buttrfield: I'm putting together a simple bookkeeping program… …that I hope to upload to my SPECIAL EDITION area soon… …other than that, messing around with the machines and seeing what looks like fun.
QuestionHow long can I let my computer system to stay on(I have a C-64,1541,1660 modem and thomson monitor),without damaging it(from over heating)?
Buttrfield: No limitation. I know I guy in England that runs eight-month programs! (The poor guy is terrified of power failures)!
QuestionHow much would a connector for a non-commodore cassette drive to c-64 cost?
Buttrfield: I've seen these made commercially, but don't know if they are still available… …the tricky part is this: the computer needs to control the cassette motor.. (not just send and receive bits).. ..and that takes some neat interfacing with the PAUSE control on the recorder.
QuestionReading your article in Compute!'s Gazet te a while back about Commodore 128 Memory Expansion for the 128, I'm curious whether you know how to set up a RAM DISK with the 512 or 128k expansion
Buttrfield: I don't know of a RAMDisk program avilable yet… …The Transactor (Richard Evers) is working on one… …Now, Commodore have released a RAMdisk package for the 1764, BUT… ..it's not too good (uses tooo much main memory so far). Somebody's GOTTA write one soon!
QuestionI installed a reset switch & can get back my program, but how do I get back my data & string arrays?
Buttrfield: Elmer, is this on the 64? (Think it must be).. (..MikeL sez he has a RAMdisk for the 1750 … wanna EMail him?) Getting back data and string arrays is not easy… ..you will need to reconstruct your end-of-variables pointer and.. ..the corresponding end-of-arrays pointer (NOT EASY)… ..there might be a utility for it but I don't know of one offhand. FOURTEEN questions are waiting. That means your question will likely take about 20 minutes…
QuestionWhoops, in my earlier question, I asked about converting floating point to ASCII I meant to ask about converting ASCII to floating point. I would apprecieate any help, but if the answer is too involved I will E-MAIL you. Thanks.
Buttrfield: Whoops. I think that one is tricker. (Another technical one, folks!)… …seems to me you get involved in moving the Text Pointer… …I fear it will be messy. Try EMAIL.
QuestionWhat kind of system do you have now?
Buttrfield: All sorts. At the moment, I'm in Windsor Ontario, using a 64 at a retail store… (SysteMan Computers) … with a zillion people from the user group looking over my shoulder. (Windsor is right across the river from Detroit). At home, I have ALL KINDSA systems, of course.
QuestionIf there is not a local number in your area is there a toll free number for Q?
Buttrfield: You must call the closest Tymnet or Telenet node … check the QLink directory.
Questionhow do i read data on disk from a progrm such as high scores for a game?
Buttrfield: No general rule I can think of. Depends on how the program stored it. … …most hackers snoop through the file to see if they can "spot" the area they want … ..but that's not an exact science.
QuestionWhy did Commodore Orphan the Vic20?
Buttrfield: I suspect coz people were not buying it any more. (Commodore ain't dumb … they don't make 'em if they can't sell 'em) (…I'm getting lotsa theories from the user group here…) (..the peanut gallery is active…)
QuestionDo you have any knowledge of the Amiga 1000 – 2000 – 500 ????
Buttrfield: Yup. Some. Whattya wanna know?
QuestionOk,I have a 1670 Modem,And "Sometimes" when I turn the System on…The Modem makes a Buzzing sound and other Wierd sounds…'Just Wondering'?
Buttrfield: Have you checked it for fleas? ..Ummm.. the 1670 speaker is supposed to be mute until you make a phone connect… …if it still works OK otherwise, don't worry.
CommentI have a Ram Disk Program to whoever asked about the 128 Ram Expansion!
Buttrfield: (Above from MikeL).
QuestionDo you think it is possible to make burst reads with a c-128 & 1571 in 64 mode?
Buttrfield: Yup. A lotta work (machine language stuff), but all the pieces are in there ready to work.
QuestionHow soon will the Amiga 500 be available and could you give us some as to the nature of entry level Commodore Software That will be available
Buttrfield: I can't speak for Commodore, but I suspect there will be units out to the dealers very soon… ..(think a month or so).. ..(skeptic here sez before Xmas! Faugh!)
QuestionMr. Butterfield,I know a little Basic, and I have bought your book on ML! I would also like to learn Pokes in Basi c (I haven't gotten into the book yet).. Which is easier to learn first…Pokes or ML????
Buttrfield: You will always collect a number of favorite POKEs for your 64 early in the game… ..(for screen colors, for sound, for sprites, etc.)… ..Later, when you do Machine Language, the same addresses will still be usable.
Questionwhat do you think about the Lt. Kernal??
Buttrfield: Well conceived operating system to implement a good, fast, high capacity hard disk… …not TOTALLY compatible with everything, but well designed.
QuestionHow do you smooth scroll (in BASIC) verticaly? In the Programers Ref. Guide it doesn't explain good enough. I have tried it their way.
Buttrfield: Not easy in Basic, but possible. This takes more detail than I can give here… ..wanna EMail and we might do it on a CIN board?
QuestionHow would one prepare an interface from the 64's Audio outut to a RCA type plug for input jacks on the back of a component system?
Buttrfield: Easiest way is to use an adaptor cable called "5-pin DIN to 4 RCA"… (also called an octopus cable), available from Radio Shack… The 5-pin connector will fit in the 9-pint slot… ..then you haft mess around to find out which connector is the audio… (Radio Shack keep changing the color scheme). >>> THIRTY-THREE QUESTIONS!!! ???? Aaaaarrrrrrgh!
RJScott: (Poor Jim) :: wink ::
Questiondoes anybody know if KINGS QUEST is coming out for the C128 under Electronic Arts
Buttrfield: I don't. (This question from V H Dude)
QuestionHOW DO I SEND A ONLINE OLM MESSAGE??
Buttrfield: Call up the QLink Post Office. Select "Send Online Message".
QuestionI've heard much about adding a second SID chip to the 64 to provide Stereo sound. Do you know if this is possible and if so, is it practical. It seems like it would involve a lot of knowledge in electronics and the 64 it self. Do you have any knowledge of the cost, time and equipment involved in this sort of project?
Buttrfield: It's possible, but takes a considerable technical level… …you also have to work to GET the chips. Don't think I can give meaningful estimates here … try hardware board.
QuestionANY 1764 SOFT WARE OUT YET????
Buttrfield: That's the 64 RAM Expansion cartridge… …other than the RAMDisk from Commdore, there's the GEOS 1.3
QuestionJim, did U write a BBS Called Punter-Net
Buttrfield: No, Steve Punter did that.
Questionany ideas why commodore gave us smart pe ripherals but ran them serial, not parallel?
Buttrfield: Serial was originally intended to be as fast as parallel…
Miss Chris: eileenc
Buttrfield: ..long story, but Commodore got into a technical snarl… …and ended up SLOWING DOWN the whole thing. (.. doncha hate it when EVERYBODY wants to get in on the act, Miss Chris?? )))
Questioni have a 64, the question is when i use my computereyes video digitalizer i don't capture the emage very well, would a suporrt program like "doodle" help me?
Miss Chris: always the ham
Buttrfield: I suspect so … it's handy to be able to edit the picture and neaten it up.
QuestionDo you have an Amiga? Is the 2000 out yet? If you have an Amiga, tell me some about programming Hires in BASIC. I am thinking about buying an Amiga soon. Should I get the 1000 or 2000?
Buttrfield: Yes, have an Amiga. Think the 2000 is shipping to dealers but have no details… Get the 2000 if you need PC compatibility or much memory … else the 1000 is just fine… Hires in AmigaBasic isn't hard … no time to give details here but check the manual.
QuestionWhy cann't a "dumb" copier be developed that relies on drive speed and timing. This type would copy everything based on the time it was loaded into the computer and then send it back to disk the same way.
Buttrfield: Not sure what you have in mind, Frank37, but logging detailed timing… …and then replicating it is VERY demanding on the computer. The idea is sound, though … but it would be H*LL to implement, I think.
QuestionIf you were entering a computer field to day (as in college) what would you major in?
Buttrfield: Depends on your interest. Computer Science? Business administration? Math? I prefer to see "combinations of skills" rather than just one major.
QuestionAfter formatting, I download disk and
Buttrfield: ..and? Then what?…
QuestionWhat protocol do they use here in Qlink? Is it Punter Protocol? Just a safer way of sending it?
Buttrfield: Think it's a unique protocol, but don't know… ask at a QLink auditorium session.
QuestionJust how difficult is it to learn ML?
Buttrfield: Not hard once you realign your thinking … but THAT sometimes takes time. Machine Language gets you into picky detail, which some hate and others delight in.
CommentHow did that guy make a comment? I did not ask the Q, but I am interested in the RAM disk.
Buttrfield: He (like you) just asked a question, and I decided to classify it as a comment.
Questionhow can i print something which has been saved to disk and shows as a seq file?
Buttrfield: IF it's a simple data file (likely), a simple program such as SPRINT will list or print it… ..sometimes (as with .LIB programs) it's not listable in any simple way. But you can always try.
QuestionWhat R your views on the new Commodore IBM clones? How do they rate to others?
Buttrfield: I'm told by users that they are fine, quality machines. don't have any hands-on experience myself. THIRTY NINE QUESTIONS … there will be a wait for YOURS to come up…
QuestionWhat are the leading word processing programs for the C-64?
Buttrfield: Paperclip, Speedscript, Paperback/Pocket Writer
QuestionIs it possible to go from 64 mode to 128 mode under program control and still execute a command?
Buttrfield: No, I don't think it can be done.
Questionany 1764 programs out yet(COMMODORE 64)
Buttrfield: (Answered previously). Not much.
QuestionSince GEOS128 is monochrome, is it even possible to have color in 80 column bitmap mode on the C128?
Buttrfield: Yes, with some limitations. I don't work much in this area.
Questionwhat is happening with commodore softwar when about all the major stores are droping commodore? It is hard to find commodore software in a store now. WHY?
Buttrfield: I think it depends on the area. If you have nothing locally, you CAN use mail order…. Some areas seem to be doing well. In any case, check with local user groups, BBS's, (and here).
QuestionJust how can you 'figure out' what number to poke into what address to do whatever?
Buttrfield: Memory maps have been published in lots of places… ..such as "The Complete Commodore Inner Space Anthology" (from The Transactor)… ..browse through 'em and you'll get ideas as to what to try.
QuestionWhy isn't the ENHANCED SIDPLAYER public domain like the older one?
Buttrfield: I believe COMPUTE! magazine has strong ideas as to ownership of software… …I suspect you could get PERMISSION to use within a club community, but they would not permit.. .."public domain"-ing.
QuestionHave you heard of Basic 8.0? What is it?
Buttrfield: Nope. Might be a commerical product, but I don't think Commodore are involved in it.
Questionin ilegal telecom hacking, is it true that there is programs to help you…. if so, what is the name of it?
Buttrfield: There are a number of programs, including "blue box" programs… ..but they are not only illegal, many are poisoned with "trojan horses" to wreck your computer.
QuestionWhich book would you prefer (If you did not have your books out) to learn the ML for the C64? I've bought a few of your books, but they are a tab too confusing, and would like to learn ML with ease, not dumping everything in Values, and flags, and the such.
Buttrfield: Not sure how to answer that… ..it may depend on your own learning style. Some readers say they like Richard Mansfield's book… ..and there are others, but can't give a list right now.
QuestionHow do you upload
Buttrfield: Check with a QHELPER for advice.
QuestionDo you know of anyway to have CP/M on the 128 recognise all 154 tracks on the SFD-1001 disk drive?
Buttrfield: Not offhand. Might be difficult unless you want to dive into the DOS inner structure.
Questionhear of any >>real<< (vt100 emulation ,etc.) terminal software for the volks 6470 modem?
Buttrfield: I'm told that there's one by MicroTechnics Solutions that's OK.
CommentFor the one asking about scrolling, Horizontally, or Vertically, leave me EMail, and I can explain it to you. That, or I will upload a program which does both. Which ever would be easier.
Buttrfield: Above commend from THE V.
Questionwhy so many glitches on raster IRQ's?!
Buttrfield: The raster IRQ is a highly time-sensitive job… …so if other jobs get in the way, you'll see the split screen "twitch".
Questioncan you reformat a disk, if your old program won't load anymore?
Buttrfield: Your old program DEFINITELY won't load if you do… …but if you have trouble with a disk, I would toss it. Why ask for more trouble?
Questiondid you get my question?
Buttrfield: (Asked 33 minutes ago). Yes .. you will have seen the answer by now.
QuestionHow do you feel about some programs being so heavily protected that they are either unreliable in loading or damage the disk drive??
Buttrfield: I don't like it. If you paid good money for a program, you should demand that it work well. If it misbehaves (because of protection or any other reason).. SEND IT BACK. (unless you stole it, in which case, don't).
QuestionMr Butterfield, did you first study to p rogram, or did you start out in Basic and have to advence from there?
Buttrfield: I started programming in 1963, before Basic was in general use… …so I learned machine language before Basic.
QuestionIs the delay in the time that a message is sent to Q-link and the time it is put on the screen due to software or hardwar because I want to do a modem game using joysticks and keyboard and I want to hav realtime simultaneous play between oppo- nents.Can this delay be shortened? If so how far? Considering transmission time from modem to modem.
Buttrfield: The delay is mostly in the communications facilities… ..you're going through a network called "packet switching" and your stuff must wait behind other ..stuff. There's also a delay in QLink if they are busy. EXPECT SOME DELAY. You can't avoid it.
QuestionIn games like Raid on Bungeling Bay and Zone Ranger, Rambo,etc. how do you make a graphic screen scroll in all those directions? where do the graphics go after it scrolls off the screen, and how do they get back on the screen when you move the opposite direction
Buttrfield: The graphics are delivered from the program, which supplies the extra ones as needed, and throws ..away the stuff not needed for the screen. It's a bit complex.
QuestionDoes commodore plan any new HARD DRIVES in the near future?
Buttrfield: Commodore don't seem to do ANY … they leave that to other vendors.
QuestionWith the release of 3 different memory expanders for commodore computers, none of which seem to readily work "multi-modedly", it would seem commodore would release a module that runs in all modes on the 128 or a module for the 64 AND 128. Would you say this was a move to increase profits? (not releasing an idividual module) or just un-practical
Buttrfield: I think Commodore are a little confused, and hoping somebody will find a good use for them. ..and it may happen.
QuestionJim, if I want to ask you a question via
Buttrfield: ..Email? sure. But try to finish the question.
QuestionSorry, Jim. What name do I send it to?
Buttrfield: To BUTTRFIELD, as above.
QuestionAny ideas why I can't get 2 drives to work with my GEOS prg? 1 drive is #8, 1 is #9. (it wouldn't work before I changed the drive #s.
Buttrfield: It should. It works fine on mine. Check the cables. Printer off?
QuestionI missed Lou Wallace's Forum did anybody catch the release date for BASIC8.0?
Buttrfield: (Above questionn from V H DUDE).
QuestionHaving a hard time using common sense.
Buttrfield: Ask for help on the Telecommunications board, FILMOREB.
Questionwhat does SYS mean? jow do i use it to my advantage?
Buttrfield: SYS means "call the address given as a machine language subroutine". ..when you have a machine language program, (runs fast!) you can call it with SYS.
Questionis there any way to convert a c128 hi res picture so that it can be printed on the okimate 10 with the c64 software included?
RJScott: .
Buttrfield: I've heard that OKIMate have an accessory called, PLUG and PLAY, that might… ..make this possible. Not sure how easy it is to find.
QuestionHave U seen or heard much about the image digitizer 4 the Amiga? (DigiView, i think.) Is it good quality? Color? What is required to digitize the picky? How long does it take? How does the Hires BASIC compare with C-128?
Buttrfield: Digiview has been well spoken of by those who have it… (slow, but good results). Uses video camera and "gels". Hires Basic is VERY GOOD on the Amiga, and has more scope than the 128 (more colors, combintions)
QuestionAre there any hard disks 4 Amiga? Cost? Quality? do U have 1?
Buttrfield: I think the objective is to supply a "generic" interface so that any.. "standard" (IBM, SCSI) hard disk can be interfaced. Can't give details .. don't have one… …but best on the Amiga 2000 or 1000 with Sidecar.
QuestionOn the Amiga, is it fairly easy to LOAD and display a hi-res picture in BASIC?
Buttrfield: Most high res pictures are in "IFF" format, which needs special handling… …I suspect a Basic program can be written to do it (not simple), but haven't seen one yet.
QuestionOn the C-128, can TRAP be used to detect disk errors such as FILE NOT FOUND? Used in such a way as to prevent crashes when this type of error occurs?
Buttrfield: I seem to recall that TRAP catches some disk errors but not all… …I would still place more reliance in disk status DS or DS$.
CommentComment… I know they don't use Punter, but I wish they did (on QLink) cuz Punter is about twice as fast as whateve r they use.
QuestionIs it possible to go from 64 mode to 128 mode under program control and still be able to execute a predetermined command?
Buttrfield: Nope.
QuestionIs there any software available for use with the cbm model 4040 dual and if so how do i get it?
Buttrfield: It's getting tougher. You used to be able to get Buscard or CLink for this work.. (hardware, not software), but I don't know if you can get 'em any more. (I assume you're talking about a C64 interface).
QuestionWhat hardware does the Q-Link system use for it's mainframe??
Buttrfield: I'm told it's a STRAD (a mini computer)
Commentcant wait thank you
Buttrfield: ..you can read it in the transcript. (..hope it worked out all right)..
QuestionWhen will the C-128D model be generally availible? What approximate retail price should I be looking for?
Buttrfield: Don't know. Hope soon … but ask on a Commodore forum.
QuestionJim, Do you have info on RAM expansion for the 64? If so would I be better off with RAM or 2nd disk drive?
Buttrfield: Depends on software availability. Right now, the RAM Expansion is useful mostly for GEOS 1.3. ((( 34 questions pending. Grunt. )))
RJScott: 🙂
Questionis commodore going bankrupt?
Buttrfield: No … they're running a slim profit.
QuestionAre there any programmable databases for the C128 other than superbase?
Buttrfield: Pocket filer. Maybe DFile. Not sure what else.
QuestionWhat is your opinion on various language s? What ones do you know? Do you know and like C? I am beginning to learn C now. Thanx.
Buttrfield: Basic is free and comes with the machine, so it will ALWAYS be popular. C is OK for machine-level types, but it costs and takes efforts to learn… If it does what you want, go for it.
QuestionAre you using an Amiga a lot? Is it beco ming your favorite machine? If not, why not?
Buttrfield: The Amiga is nice and has many good features. But the majority of users I talk to are still… … on 64/128 machines, and I spend lotsa time there.
Questioncan you really that trojen horse bit?
Buttrfield: Don't understand the question. A Trojan Horse is a program that looks attractive… ..but causes damage when you let it in your machine.
QuestionOne last question. The commodore 128 supports 80 columns with a monitor and cable. Is it possible to SIMPLY build an interface for a TV. Not especially for critical viewing, possibly to run a BBS and take advantage of the extra speed involved in FAST MODE while still being able to view what appears on the screen.
Buttrfield: If you're asking about 80 columns on a TV set .. no … .. few TV sets will give you the resolution to be easily readable.
QuestionHave you heard or seen commodore's laptop? The name included 128 in the name. It was a true laptom with a LCD screen and micro tape device. Seen article about 18 months ago in adds
Buttrfield: The LCD (laptop) was shown at CES shows but later scrapped by Commodore.
QuestionDoess tge iee flash interface mess up
Buttrfield: Don't know it. Sorry.
QuestionAre there programs out 4 writing on MFM disk with a 1571? I would like to make a file copier that would read files in CBM mode, and write them in MFM mode to be loaded on an IBM compat.
Buttrfield: Think you want THE BIG BLUE READER. It should do it all.
Questionhow do i get a copy of instructions to run a certain program?
Buttrfield: (Try buying it?) Or … look for a file called .DOCS or .INST or README. Or shout for help.
Questionhey, are you going to answer anything??
Buttrfield: Naaaaahh. Just goofing around.
Questionhow long does it take to answer a question?
Buttrfield: Takes me about ten seconds. Takes you longer coz you gotta wait for the question to come up.
QuestionHow can I use Fractals on tehe 128
Buttrfield: Fractals is a special type of math (graphics math). You'd use it with plotting programs… …you'll need to read up on the subject.
QuestionCompute ever rate hard drives 64/128? If so, do you remember the issue… Month, year. Also, do you recall the ICT being discussed?
Buttrfield: Don't recall offhand. I think RUN has done so recently.
QuestionDid you ever meet a beer you didn't like? David Bradley
Buttrfield: No … but Moosehead comes close.
QuestionWhat programming language do you… consider to be the most powerful.
Buttrfield: Machine Language is the most powerful, but takes the most detail work.
QuestionHave you used the new C64 memory
Buttrfield: Briefly. Seems to work OK.
QuestionDoes it really make the C64 more usefull
Buttrfield: (As before) so far only with GEOS 1.3
QuestionWhat is a good printer for the C-128
Buttrfield: Some like the STAR NP10 … there are lotsa others … ask on the hardware board.
QuestionWhat do you think of the Geos that is coming out for the 128?
Buttrfield: More memory and more disk capacity make it a better idea.
Questiondumb question but what is Geo's
Buttrfield: It's a piece of software by Berkeley Software, GEOS is:… Graphic Environment Operating System … ..comes packed in the box with every new 64C. (Nice on graphics and things).
QuestionJim, I know your area of expertise is more in the soft than hard area, but… When I turn my 64 on I get my printing in all mixed up colors about 1/4 of the time. Sometimes my text colors will go blooey in the midst of a prg. & then OK a bit later. Does this sound like a problem that could get more serious or cause damage? Might it be a "color chip"?
Buttrfield: Could be a video chip. First, check your cable to see it's not running by a source of… ..interference; check adjustments on your TV set… ..if none of these, maybe video chip, maybe power supply.
QuestionJim, how do you underline on the mps803? I Email-ed Commodore, but they sent me the message on their bulletin board for underlining on the dps1101 with Speedscript. The manual says it can be done, but the code sequence in the book doesn't do it!?
Buttrfield: Gosh, I don't know. Holler for help on the hardware board. (above question from JAFFRE)
QuestionCan the 512k expansion for the C128 be used in both C128 and C64 modes?
Buttrfield: Yes it can. You don't have STASH and FETCH commands in the 64, of course.
CommentThe tutoring center know offers tutoring in telecommuncations every Wednesday at 10 pm…it is being taught by RUN Columnist, David Bradley. In response to a previous telecommunica- tions question, eh!
Buttrfield: (Bradley also offers wise advice on choosing a beer).
QuestionWould a telecom. game that used regular telephonee provide realtime speed and eliminate the delay from modem to modem? Unlike packet switching network?
Buttrfield: Yes. But Long Distance charges are much more costly.
Commentcomputereyes by digital vision works well on my 64
QuestionTyroneW: Is it possible to get a copy of instructions to run a certain program
Buttrfield: (As before) Holler for help on the C.I.N. here.
CommentComspec is coming out with an Amiga hard drive…they make quality products there! Like their ram expansion board as well as countless other things over the years
Questionspeaking of that SIDECAR, have you ever seen one? !!!
Buttrfield: Yup, but haven't USED one.
QuestionCan I use the Amiga with a 1902 monitor to full color? If not, what monitor do I need, and what is the cost? Also, do U know the approximate cost of DigiView?
Buttrfield: The 1902 is an RGBI monitor … you need a full RGB monitor. Can't give price info on monitors or Digiview… (in Canada, prices are different anyway).
QuestionCould you explain, I saw on "Q" where they talked about a new ROM chip that is for the 1571 and one for the 128 to help correct some problem?
Buttrfield: Yes. The 128 has some minor annoyances, and the 1571 some MAJOR bugs… ..Commodore is putting out new ROM chips that may be plugged into these machines and will fix the bugs (mostly). I recommend them, especially the 1571 one.
QuestionIs there a disk allignment for the 1571
Buttrfield: Yes. I like the Cardinal DISK PHYSICAL EXAM package.
QuestionCan you help me with geos??
Buttrfield: What do you have in mind? (You can snoop the GEOS board on C.I.N.)
CommentIf somebody has 4040 questions, tell them that they should ask DavBradley about them in the TPUG section of the User Group Support Center.
QuestionWhare did (DOES) the 4040 drive hook into the Commodore Computer.
Buttrfield: Which Commodore computers? The PET and CBM hook right to the cable. With the 64, you'll need.. ..a hard-to-find hardware interface.
QuestionI am working on a BASIC/ML 2 Drive Copy prg for the 64. The R/W of each sector is the ML part. PROBLEM: When the R/W is done in BASIC the program works fine but VERY slow. When the R/W is in ML, and the program returns from the ML routine, I get a ?DEVICE NOT PRESENT error when trying to "U2" the sector. What do you think?
Buttrfield: Think you're doing something wrong. Try pulling status a lot (select channel 15 and $FFE4)
QuestionWhat ports do Commodore use? IEEE, RS232 USER/CARTRIDGE?
Buttrfield: Depends on the machine. 64 uses SERIAL, RS232, CARTRIDGE, JOYSTICK, VIDEO, CASSETTE, USER.
Commentcomment: re the person and the 4040's .. perhhpas he should contact TPUGMAIL and and ask them.
QuestionIs it possible to write viable programs on the Amiga in 68000? Everyone seems to program it in C.
Buttrfield: Yes, but there's more work to do… ..in Assembler, you'll need to establish who called you (CLI or WB) and do specific code based.. ..on this. (Not truly hard, but messier than C…)
QuestionHow do you make work disks on geos after you put v1.3 on it?
Buttrfield: You do DATA disks by calling the FORMAT option and going from there… …you can't really copy the master disk.
QuestionIs RJ asking all these questions? 🙂
Buttrfield: Just cause you see his name up there doesn't mean he's the only one here… …all the people in the auditorium are not shown..
RJScott: While only YOUR name and the names of those of us on stage show on your screen there are others here. All you have to do to see how MANY are here is Press F7 select LEAVE the AUDITORIUM but do NOT LEAVE. Instead, list Public Rooms and you'll see how many folks are here with us.
QuestionI'm perfectly happy with my C-64 (had fo r many years).. why should I move up to a C-128? What advantages??
Buttrfield: If you're happy, you're happy. Game over. Some like the 128 for: 80 columns, faster disk load, more memory, more disk space.
CommentI think the new products from digital solutions make use of the 64 ram expan- sion… I saw an illustration of Amiga Basic. Said: 256k system bytes, 25k for Basic. Seems kind of chincy.
Buttrfield: You mean chintzy. You can modify the space used for Basic if you need more.
Questioncan i change c64 screen logo?
Buttrfield: You can produce a customized ROM chip that will change the power up message.
QuestionI hear that they are giving away GEOS with every new commodore sold now. If you already have a computer, are you locked into paying the rediculous price of $60 for it? Is it worth it? What abou 128 version?
Buttrfield: You hafta get in legitimately, one way or the other… (See if you can find a new owner who'll give up his/her GEOS for $20)… the 128 version is expected, ummm, June.
QuestionWhere can I get the Cardinal Disk exam package?
Buttrfield: I'll supply it in a moment, if I can find it…
Questioncall CHRIN at $FFCF. I use $FFCF and $FFD2.
Buttrfield: (a tech note) For files, $FFCF and $FFE4 are identical. Cardinal Software: 14840 Build America Dr., Woodbridge VA 22191.
QuestionWhere is your section on Qlink? How can I get to it?
Buttrfield: I have a program section in Software Showcase, Special Edition. Thank you all. Good night, from Windsor, Ontario.
RJScott: For Q-Link, I'd like to thank Mr. Butterfield for providing us with another informative Forum. For those who may have arrived late, you'll be able to download the entire Forum Transcript from our News & Information department under the category "Features" within a few days. Thank you Jim, thank you all, and