Acorn News Service Newsletter
Issue: 173 (12 December 2004)
Featured site this issue: http://www.drobe.co.uk/extra/awards2004/
General News
The ARM Club Midlands Show - Show reports
Drobe Best of 2004 Awards for RISC OS
Voting is now open at Drobe for their Best of 2004 Awards, which recognise
those who have contributed most to the RISC OS platform this year. The
categories are:
- Best commercial software
- Best non-commercial software
- Best RISC OS hardware product
- Best RISC OS event of 2004
- Best show of ingenuity
- Best general contribution to the platform
- Top own goal
The list of nominees can be seen at:
<http://www.drobe.co.uk/riscos/artifact1234.html>
and votes can be cast at:
<http://www.drobe.co.uk/extra/awards2004/>
(people without a Drobe account will need to register for a free account)
Three randomly chosen voters will win copies of Desktop Repton Plus - the
classic Acorn era puzzle game enhanced in time for Christmas 2004. Voting
closes on the 30th December 2004, so get your vote in as soon as you can!
Commercial News
The Advent Charity Giveaway from Stuart Tyrrell Developments
Until Christmas, Stuart Tyrrell Developments are offering items which are
available free of charge by means of a free prize draw. Simply check
<http://www.stdevel.com/AdventCharityGiveaway.html> from 1st to 24th of
December, for new items which appear each day. Note down the draw code of
the item you want to enter the draw for (max. one per item).
Then send an e-mail as detailed on the site, containing the draw code in
the Subject header of the e-mail, and your name and a full UK postal
address, including postcode, in the body.
Entries for each item will be drawn on a random basis, and winning items
will be sent out completely free of charge.
Christmas is traditionally a time to consider those who may be less
fortunate than ourselves, and Stuart Tyrrell Developments would like to
take the opportunity of this series of draws to encourage participants to
make a personal donation to a registered charity of their choice. At
Christmas time, Stuart Tyrrell Developments choose to support Shelter -
further details of this charity and its work may be found at
<http://www.shelter.org.uk/>. Please make your own donation direct to the
charity of your choice, not via Stuart Tyrrell Developments.
Prize draw information and rules:
<http://www.stdevel.com/charitytandc.html>
Castle unveils RISC OS support for the MiMagic 5
Castle Technology Ltd is pleased to announce RISC OS support for the
NeoMagic MiMagic 5 Applications Processor. The MiMagic 5 is ARM 9 based
and suitable for a wide range of handheld Information Appliances.
The MiMagic Applications Processor offers one of the lowest power and
smallest form-factor packages. Together with excellent multimedia features
and performance the MiMagic 5 processor is a world class product.
The addition of the MiMagic 5 to the ever growing list of processors that
RISC OS supports is a considerable benefit for the wider RISC OS
community. Castle is pleased to announce that the support for the MiMagic
5 is the result of work being done by Tematic for large OEM customers in
the embedded space.
Further information is available at:
<http://www.neomagic.com/product/mimagic5.asp>
Development boards for the MiMagic 5 application processors will shortly
be available with evaluation copies of RISC OS 5. Developers interested in
the MiMagic 5 application processor should contact Castle Technology Ltd
for further details.
<http://www.iyonix.com/>
Desktop Repton PLUS
Desktop Repton PLUS is now available for all RISC OS computers running
RISC OS 3.5 or above. New in this release: hi-resolution PC graphics, all
of the levels from the new PC release of Repton 1 and, depending upon
uptake, a possibility of further upgrades.
The price remains GBP19.95 with upgrades at GBP6, both cases plus GBP1
postage. There are some special extras along the way which will only be
made available to purchasers of Desktop Repton PLUS.
To order, e-mail <david.bradforth@alligatagroup.co.uk> giving your
full contact details and machine specification, and state whether it is an
upgrade or new purchase. An invoice will be supplied by return which, when
paid, will get you your software.
Less than half price Pocket Reader
4D are offering the Siemens PocketReader OCR Pen and RISC OS software at
less than half price.
This compact OCR Pen Scanner 'reads' printed text converting it to type
rather than a picture, and stores up to 20 A4 pages internally. The text
can then be transferred quickly by the supplied serial cable to your
computer. RISC OS and Microsoft drivers are supplied, drivers for many
other OSs are available for free download.
The PocketReader is now available for just GBP25 (plus GBP5 delivery if
required). Normal price inc postage GBP62.
<http://www.cjemicros.co.uk/4d/>
Messenger Pro 3 upgrade scheme
R-Comp have announced the first release of Messenger Pro 3. This new
version of one of the platform's most respected e-mail applications
represents a new era in its development, infused with new programming
talent to drive it forwards.
The Messenger Pro 3 upgrade is a little different to the way things have
been done in the past - rather than being one "final" release, Messenger
Pro 3 will be an ongoing upgrade scheme, with enhancements and new
features being added along the way. Unlike other similar arrangements, you
will not be charged a subscription, just a one-off upgrade fee. Most
R-Comp software owners will be familiar with their regular e-mail updates
to software, and MusicMan (released Jan 2004) is a recent example of how
this type of rolling development works.
The single biggest change in this version is a move to a new multi-tasking
engine which makes the use of Messenger Pro 3 much smoother and slicker.
The way various group windows open is now far more intelligent, with
window sizes being dynamically adjusted to reduce the time you waste
resizing windows to "get a better view". The software combines the ability
to store window size/position with this dynamic sizing to ensure that the
software feels natural.
The software has received significant attention to its user interface,
bringing it inline with OS4/Adjust/OS5 feel, as well as adjusting many
windows to make them operate more sensibly and naturally.
Messenger Pro 3 is designed to work on both 26 bit Risc PC and similar
machines, as well as 32 bit Iyonix machines in a "one-size-fits-all"
manner, so upgrading ensures your product is compatible whatever RISC OS
path you choose in the future.
The Messenger Pro 3 upgrade scheme costs GBP19, and is available now. It
can be ordered by phone (01925 755043), fax (01925 757377), e-mail or web
site <http://www.rcomp.co.uk/>.
Broadband solutions from R-Comp now include NetFetch2
All R-Comp broadband (ADSL or Cable) solutions are now shipping with the
new, well-received NetFetch 2 connection/transfer software (SRP GBP25),
and also include necessary cables, microfilters and widely praised
networking printed manuals (SRP GBP12).
ADSL and cable routers each cost GBP99 including VAT and delivery (and the
above bundle).
ADSL-in-a-box (GBP199) additionally includes both RISC OS and Microsoft
network cards, cables, and instructions covering how to network both
RISC OS and Microsoft Windows.
Network-in-a-box (GBP225), for cable broadband and modem users, includes
the same features as ADSL-in-a-box but also has a parallel printer port
for printer sharing, and R-Comp Network Printer Drivers 2 software (SRP
GBP40).
Versions of the above with added Wireless networking support are also
available.
<http://www.rcomp.co.uk/>
A3 printing at A4 prices
4D have acquired a small quantity of refurbished HP8000n A3 Laser printers
available to you for GBP270.
The HP laserjet 8000n features:
- 1200 dpi, 24 pages per minute, 16MB memory, PCL 6 and Postscript lvl2
- RAM-based mopying with dynamic RIP-once for fast, efficient multiple original prints (mopies) over your network
- Handles paper sizes up to 11 x 17 inches
- Offers straight-through paper path to prevent curling of heavier media and envelopes
- RISC OS Driver supplied
Prices:
- HP 8000n: GBP270
- HP 8000n + 2000 page extra tray: GBP420
- HP 8000n + 2000 page extra tray & Multi bin: GBP495
- Delivery, if required: GBP70
- Duplex option: GBP290 (RRP GBP473)
- New 15,000 page Toner cartridge: GBP140
All items above are refurbished with a three month RTB Warranty. Please
check availability before ordering.
<http://www.cjemicros.co.uk/4d/>
7th software release RISC OS desktop card game
Moan is a card game for one to four players. It is played with two packs
of cards, including the jokers, giving 108 cards in the deck. The deck is
placed face-down in the middle of the table with the players distributed
around it.
Each player is dealt eleven cards. The top card in the pack is placed next
to the pack, face-up. The players take turns taking a card from the
middle, making their move(s) and then dropping a card into the middle. The
winner is the first person to complete the round for level ten.
See <http://www.7thsoftware.com/moan/> for more information and
screenshots, or to download a free demo version.
The full version of Moan can be purchased from 7th software for GBP14.99.
Simply send a cheque or postal order made out to "7th software" to
7th software, Unit 4, Townsend Mews, Wilburton, Cambridgeshire, CB6 3SQ.
Please indicate if you would like to receive the software by e-mail as
there is an additional charge of GBP2.50 for media, post and packing of
Moan on a CD.
For a limited period only, Moan can be purchased for an offer price of
just GBP9.99. Offer ends 31st Jan 2005. Optional P+P charges still apply.
<http://www.7thsoftware.com/>
Liquid Silicon excess stock Christmas games offer
Buy two of the following games and get the cheapest one for half price:
- Abuse GBP20
- Chaos Engine GBP19.50
- Heretic & Hexen GBP32
- Quake GBP21
- Tek GBP30
Offer subject to availability and ends 2004-12-31.
<http://www.liquid-silicon.com/>
10) Castle's DIY IYONIX pc kit available again
Castle recently announced that, following the success of the launch of the
DIY IYONIX pc kit in October 2004, the DIY kit is now available again for
a limited period (until 17th December 2004).
The kit enables customers to select the specification and case that suits
them, and potentially can also save hundreds of pounds.
The DIY IYONIX pc kit is available before 17th December 2004 for GBP729
including VAT. The kit includes the following items:
- IYONIX pc micro ATX motherboard featuring:
600MHz Intel xScale processor, 10/100/1000 networking, 200MHz DDR RAM
slot, connectors (2xIDE, FDD, audio in & out, microphone, 2 x CD in),
four PCI slots, podule backplane, RISC OS 5 pre-installed.
- Geforce 2 MX 400 PCI graphics card
- Motherboard fixing kit
- Motherboard I/O panel with serial number
- RISC OS Hard drive image CD (for installation onto hard drive)
- Motherboard assembly instruction sheet
- Cable kit (including HDD, CD, FDD)
- Component buying specification document (for Case, PSU etc.)
Optional extras, at special prices, include the following (# recommended
minimum purchase):
- 5 port USB PCI card (2 external, 3 internal)
- Maxtor hard drive (40GB, 80GB, 120GB)
- 200MHz PC 2100 DDR RAM (128MB, 256MB, 512MB, 1024MB)
- Sony CDRW drive (choice of Beige or Black)
- Sony Floppy disc drive (choice of Beige or Black)
- Mitsumi Floppy disc drive/seven-in-one card reader
- Wide range of fully compatible CRT & LCD Monitors.
- Choice of keyboards and mice
- Bundled software - Oregano2, Writer+, Fireworkz, Messenger Lite, Cdburn lite.
- IYONIX/RISC OS 5 Welcome Guide
Please note: due to the wide interpretation of standards, some 'out of
specification components' may not work correctly with an IYONIX
motherboard. The DIY IYONIX PC KIT comes with a list of tested and
supported components. Whilst other components may work correctly Castle
can take no responsibility for the performance of computer components that
it has not tested. All computer components sold by Castle are guaranteed
to function correctly with an IYONIX motherboard and come with a full 12
month, return-to-base warranty.
UK delivery GBP15. Overseas delivery by quotation. All prices include VAT.
This offer is limited to a maximum of 2 DIY IYONIX PC KITS per customer.
See the IYONIX pc web site for more details:
<http://www.iyonix.com/>
PD/Shareware News
New software summary
- BasText, convert tokenised BASIC to text
A command line tool to convert tokenised BASIC files to Text files and
vice versa. Also includes APCS compliant assembler routines which can be
included in and called from your own programs. GPL.
<http://www.xs4all.nl/~erikgrnh/riscos/bastext.html>
- ezkzo, desktop puzzle game
A shareware desktop puzzle game.
<http://www.cloudsprinter.com/software/ezkzo.zip>
- VNC, GUI
WIMP frontend for VNCserver and viewer programs that allows you to set
and save basic options.
<http://www.mjprice.net/archez/vnc.zip>
- Wari, seeds in hollows game
A seeds in hollows game (like Mancala or Bantumi) is now available for
the RISC OS desktop. Play is for 2 people, although one can be the
resident robot. The idea is to capture more seeds than your opponent,
through logical deduction and cunning. The robot will play on one of six
levels and play is explained in an on-board text box.
<http://www.maceng.karoo.net/BG/wari.html>
Updated software summary
- ChoX11 v0.30
Xlib replacement library used in X ports to RISC OS.
<http://www.riscos.info/xlib/>
- Delirium v2.50
Screensaver control and configuration utility. This version is 32 bit
safe, can be started prior to the Desktop, includes bug fixes, and is
relicensed under the GPL.
<http://delirium-saver.sourceforge.net/>
- Desklib v2.60
The C Wimp Library for RISC OS. Various bug fixes and enhancements.
<http://www.riscos.info/desklib/>
- Flash v0.411.1.1
A port of the GPL Flash player from Linux to RISC OS. Nominally Flash 3
compliant, though it is capable of playing Flash 4 movies. This version
includes a fix for non-32bit sound buffering code, scales the output
correctly rather than cropping to the window size, and has support for
compressed flash movies.
<http://www.ecs.soton.ac.uk/~jmb202/>
- FTPs v0.22
A simple FTP server for RISC OS. Main improvements in this are full
listing of huge directories, and improved interworking with other
clients, including, to some degree, Firefox.
<http://www.rosery.net/riscos/>
- GCC v3.4.4-pre2
The latest development version of GCC for RISC OS, a collection of
compilers. This version includes a number of Unixlib updates from the
GCCSDK team.
<http://gccsdk.riscos.info/>
- GraphDraw v2.68
Data plotting application. This version has a completely new HTML format
manual, incorporated within the application Help. Other changes include
bug fixes, and feature tidying.
<http://www.chris-johnson.org/software/graphdraw.html>
- Graphite v0.40
An editor for flowchart-like diagrams. The most important changes in
this version are: major speed improvements; grid / grid-lock; and base
styles.
<http://www.zpages.de/>
- Imagemagick v6.0.6.2-1
A command line tool for image manipulation. Updated based on feedback
from a Unix Porting Project (UPP) subscriber.
<http://www.chocky.org/unix/indexes/graphics.html#imagemagick>
- LaBella v4.00
A comprehensive and popular freeware application for printing labels.
This is a fairly major upgrade which mainly adds support for CD Labels
and also gives the option to print sideways. There are several other
minor improvements to the user interface, a complete revision of the
manual, and a couple of minor bug fixes.
<http://users.argonet.co.uk/users/rayfavre/dwapps.html>
- RemotePrinterFS v1.01
Use network printers that supports either the JetDirect or LPD protocols
from Printers. This version fixes a potential bug when using a
Gimp-Print printer definition file, and spooling is slightly faster.
<http://www.sbellon.de/sw-modules.html>
- RDesktop v20041203
Terminal services client that lets you log into remote sessions on
Microsoft Windows 2000 Server and XP Pro machines. Much faster than the
previous version.
<http://www.chocky.org/unix/indexes/terminal.html#rdesktop>
- SDL Library v1.2.7
The SDL (Simple Direct Media Layer) library enables many programs using
it to be easily ported to RISC OS. Updated to the latest CVS.
<http://www.riscos.info/sdl/>
- SideDiff v2.3x
A front-end for the GNU 'diff' utility, which compares two similar files
and lists the differences between them. SideDiff presents this
information for you in a pair of parallel-scrolling windows, using a
user-definable colour scheme and display font. This version adds outline
font and global clipboard support and fixes bugs.
<http://www.bigfoot.com/~chrisbazley/utilities.htm#sidediff>
- Sourcery v0.50
A development tool that manages all of the source code and resources
that make up a project. Assorted fixes including: generated makefiles
improved; output window scrolls to end of output automatically; start up
progress bar displayed; all project types can now have resources if
required; fixed display problem with filer style windows; tool sequence
menus tidied; fixed problem editing source code.
<http://www.really.demon.co.uk/Pages/normal/software/software.html>
- UnitConv v2.20
Converts between various units, generally SI and Imperial, but there are
also some more specialised conversions, such as energy equivalents. The
application also includes some other calculators, such as a bin/oct/dec/
hex calculator.
<http://www.chris-johnson.org/software/unitconv.html>
Club News
Upcoming meetings
- DARC (Derbyshire), 13th December - Gadgets Galore
<http://www.darc-comp.org.uk/>
- SAUG (Southampton), 13th December
<davehigton@dsl.pipex.com>
- BAUG (Bottisham), 14th December
<http://www.baug.org.uk/>
- EAUG (Essex), 14th December - A Christmas special
<http://www.watsnees.demon.co.uk/fw/eaug/>
- LAUG (Liverpool), 14th December
<http://www.italia.co.uk/laug/>
- BARUG (Bristol), 15th December
<http://www.barug.co.uk/>
- RONWUG (North West), 15th December - Advantage Six, A9 demo
<http://www.ronwug.org/>
- ROUGOL (London), 20th December
<http://rougol.jellybaby.net/>
- WROCC (Wakefield), 3rd January - AGM (members only)
<http://www.wrocc.org.uk/>
- WAUG (Wessex), 8th January
<http://www.mfraz.freeserve.co.uk/waug/>
- NKACC (Kent), 13th January
<http://nkacc.roundel.net/>
- ICENI (Ipswich), 19th January
<http://www.btinternet.com/~icenicomputerclub/>
- RISC OS South West, 26th February
<http://users.argonet.co.uk/users/acornshow/>
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