1030 lines
51 KiB
Plaintext
1030 lines
51 KiB
Plaintext
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Archive-name: os2-faq
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Version: 2.0
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OS/2 Frequently Asked Questions List: User's Edition
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Release 2.0; April 25, 1992
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Compiled by Timothy F. Sipples
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Introduction: For changes/suggestions/additions please mail
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sip1@ellis.uchicago.edu. This List may be freely distributed. Mention
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of a product does not constitute an endorsement. Answers to questions
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closer to the bottom of the List may rely on information given in prior
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answers. Customers outside the United States should not necessarily
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rely on 800 telephone numbers, part numbers, or upgrade policies
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contained in this List.
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Release Notes: With OS/2 2.0 arriving in stores this List arrives at
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Release 2.0. Many thanks for the suggestions/corrections -- please keep
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them coming. Reminder to BBS operators and other archivists: please
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retain a copy of Release 1.9g of this List, the last release to cover
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OS/2 1.x in any detail. The Programmer's Edition of the FAQ List is
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coming; netmail bjaspan@mit.edu with your contributions. Questions 1,
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2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 17, 18, 22, 26, and 29 have been revised since
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Release 1.9z.
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Questions Addressed in this Release:
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(1) What is OS/2?
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(2) What are the differences between versions?
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(3) What is Extended Services/2?
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(4) How good is OS/2 2.0's DOS and Windows compatibility?
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(5) Where can I buy OS/2?
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(6) How much does OS/2 2.0 cost?
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(7) What hardware do I need to run IBM OS/2 2.0? Do I need a PS/2?
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(8) What applications are available for OS/2?
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(9) Where can I obtain OS/2 shareware and freeware?
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(10) I am having trouble installing OS/2 2.0. What should I do?
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(11) Will OS/2 2.0 work with my SuperVGA adapter?
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(12) Will OS/2 2.0 work with my printer?
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(13) How do I access HPFS partitions on my hard drive without booting
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from the hard drive? I'm getting error messages now -- how do I
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"repair" my hard disk?
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(14) I can't install OS/2 from Drive B. What's wrong?
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(15) Is there a Norton Utilities for OS/2?
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(16) Sometimes OS/2 2.0 will freeze when I run an application? What do
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I do?
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(17) My dealer doesn't know OS/2 from Unix. How can I get answers to
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my OS/2 questions?
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(18) Why should I use HPFS? What does it offer me? Does it work with
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DOS?
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(19) I'm a Unix wizard. How do I make OS/2 resemble Unix?
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(20) I prefer Windows. How do I make OS/2 2.0 resemble Windows (or
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OS/2 1.3)?
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(21) I would like to set up an OS/2 BBS. What is available?
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(22) Can I use COM3 and COM4 in OS/2 2.0?
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(23) How do I start a background process from the OS/2 command line?
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(24) What are CSDs, how do I tell which I have, and where do I get
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them?
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(25) How do I add new Adobe Type Manager typefaces?
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(26) How do I tweak OS/2 2.0 for maximum performance?
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(27) What networking products are available for OS/2 2.0?
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(28) Should I worry about viruses when running OS/2 2.0?
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(29) Are there any clever tricks that apply to OS/2 2.0?
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----------------------------------------------------------------------
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(1) What is OS/2?
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OS/2 is an advanced operating system for PCs and PS/2s with an 80286
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processor or better. It was codeveloped by Microsoft and IBM and
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envisioned as the successor to DOS.
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It was designed from the ground up with preemptive multitasking and
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multithreading in mind. It also protects applications from one another
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(a single misbehaved program will not typically disrupt the entire
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system), supports multimegabytes of physical RAM, and supplies virtual
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memory to applications as requested, breaking DOS's 640K barrier.
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As shipped, it does not support multiuser operation, although third
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parties have grafted multiuser capabilities onto the base operating
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system. Remote-OS, OS2YOU, Citrix, and PolyMod2 are four such products.
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Remote-OS is published by The Software Lifeline, tel. 407-994-4466, and
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OS2YOU is available from the OS/2 shareware/freeware sources (see
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Question 9). Citrix Systems can be reached at 305-755-0559. PolyMod2's
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publisher, MemSoft, can be reached at 407-997-????.
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------------------------------
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(2) What are the differences between versions?
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IBM OS/2 Version 2.0 (CSD Level 02000, see Question 24) is now widely
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available in retail release. Version 2.0 will run only on machines with
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an 80386SX processor or better. IBM is (now) developing OS/2 (and its
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Intel and non-Intel-based successors) independently but is involving
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third party PC manufacturers in its testing. Improvements include the
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ability to preemptively multitask DOS, Windows 2.x, and Windows 3.0
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(real and standard mode) applications (without purchasing any of these
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environments) in separate, robust, protected sessions; an object-
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oriented Workplace Shell (WPS); a multiple operating system boot
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mechanism; new 32-bit programming interfaces; support for more than 16
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MB of physical RAM; and more third party device drivers. It also
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provides EMS 3.2/4.0 and XMS 2.0/DPMI 0.9 (expanded and extended memory)
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services to DOS and Windows applications. OS/2 1.x applications,
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unmodified, still run under OS/2 2.0.
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IBM OS/2 Version 1.3 is the last release of OS/2 to operate on PCs with
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80286 CPUs. This version introduced built-in Adobe Type Manager (ATM),
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providing scalable typefaces for screen and printer, and reduced memory
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requirements. Procedures Language/2 (a.k.a. REXX), a powerful batch-
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oriented programming language, became a part of Standard Edition with
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this release. (A few OEMs are shipping Microsoft OS/2 Version 1.3, but
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Microsoft has all but abandoned OS/2 development.)
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OS/2 Version 1.2 was the first to incorporate the High Performance File
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System (HPFS, which supports long file names). With this release IBM
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OS/2 added a dual boot mechanism and IBM Extended Edition introduced
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REXX.
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OS/2 Version 1.1 was the first to include the Presentation Manager (PM)
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GUI/API, now an integral part of the operating system. Microsoft OEM
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versions added a dual boot mechanism with this release.
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OS/2 Version 1.0, introduced in 1987, was the first release of OS/2.
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Task switching was accomplished through a character-based shell and
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limited DOS compatibility was provided.
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------------------------------
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(3) What is Extended Services/2?
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Prior to Version 2.0, IBM offered two separate packages with each
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release of OS/2: Standard Edition and Extended Edition. Extended
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Edition included extra, bundled software products: the Communications
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Manager (for communication with IBM mainframes, minicomputers, and other
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hosts), Database Manager (a full, network aware, relational database),
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and LAN Requester.
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IBM has now unbundled the Extended Edition features, dropped LAN
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Requester from the package (now available separately, with IBM's LAN
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Server product), updated it for OS/2 2.0, and renamed it Extended
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Services/2 1.0. ES/2, by itself, no longer includes the base operating
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system as Extended Edition once did.
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This new arrangement makes it easier to update the base operating system
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with CSDs (see Question 24). And now ES/2 1.0 will run under OS/2 1.3
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Standard Edition as well as OS/2 2.0. Also, ES/2 1.0, like OS/2 2.0
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itself, is designed to operate on both IBM and non-IBM systems (see
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Question 7).
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------------------------------
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(4) How good is OS/2 2.0's DOS and Windows compatibility?
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OS/2 1.x justifiably earned a reputation for poor DOS compatibility.
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Since it was designed for the 80286, it could not run more than one DOS
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application at a time.
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The situation has changed dramatically with OS/2 2.0. Version 2.0
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preemptively multitasks DOS and Windows (real and standard mode)
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applications in separate, protected sessions, without purchasing either
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environment.
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OS/2 2.0 provides a complete DOS emulation equivalent to DOS 5.0. The
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operating system can provide each DOS application with up to 32 MB of
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EMS 4.0 (expanded memory), 16 MB of XMS 2.0 (extended memory), and/or
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512 MB of DPMI 0.9 (DOS Protected Mode Interface extended memory), all
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from its pool of physical and/or virtual memory (meaning you do not have
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to have as much RAM in your system as your applications request). These
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limits are in addition to the up to 730K free conventional memory
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supplied to each DOS application, even after mouse and network drivers
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are loaded. As in DOS 5.0, DOS code and device drivers may be loaded
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into high memory. A 386 memory manager like QEMM or 386Max is not
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needed -- these features are provided by OS/2 2.0 directly.
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The DOS emulation allows customization of device driver sets -- each DOS
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application shares a systemwide CONFIG.SYS and the equivalent of its own
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CONFIG.SYS. Also, there is a systemwide AUTOEXEC.BAT file; batch
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commands particular to each DOS application can be invoked using
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separate, application-specific batch files. And many DOS Settings are
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provided to fine tune each DOS/Windows application's behavior (e.g.
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IDLE_SENSITIVITY, VIDEO_RETRACE_EMULATION, etc). The most popular
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DOS/Windows applications on your hard disk will be migrated
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automatically when you install OS/2 2.0.
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In addition, OS/2 2.0 will boot one or more specific versions of DOS in
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separate sessions, to assist in running particularly difficult
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applications. So, for example, it is possible to multitask DOS 3.3, DOS
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4.0, DOS 5.0, emulated DOS, and Desqview running atop DOS, all in
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separate sessions, either windowed or full screen, all with the same
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and/or separate device drivers, TSRs, environment variables, etc. These
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boot images may be stored on a hard disk. (Under OS/2 2.0, the commands
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VMBOOT, VMDISK, and the Installation Guide will assist in booting real
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versions of DOS.)
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Standard graphics modes (generally up to the resolution of the desktop;
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see Question 11) are supported in DOS windows, as are selectable text
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mode typefaces. Cut/paste to/from windowed DOS applications is
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supported (to/from other DOS, OS/2, and Windows applications), including
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graphics cut/paste. Theoretically, OS/2 2.0 will run up to 240
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simultaneous DOS/Windows sessions; the practical maximum depends on
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system resources. OS/2 2.0 will provide math coprocessor emulation for
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DOS/Windows programs if a math coprocessor is not present or if the 386
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CPU's step level is below D0. (Check your 80386's step level using the
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utility 386Step, available from the OS/2 shareware/freeware sources; see
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Question 9. Run it under native DOS, i.e. not while running OS/2 2.0.)
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OS/2 2.0 will, in fact, run virtually all DOS applications in existence,
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including notorious ones such as Microsoft Flight Simulator, Wing
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Commander, Maple (latest version), MatLab (latest version), and others.
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Those that do not run generally fall into the following categories:
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(a) Programs that use Virtual Control Program Interface (VCPI) memory
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extenders or other extenders which require direct access to the 80386
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control registers. Since such applications are also all but
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incompatible with Windows, most vendors have program updates for DPMI
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compatibility, which OS/2 2.0 does support;
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(b) Application programs which attempt to directly address the physical
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sectors of an OS/2 managed nonremoveable hard disk drive. Such programs
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include UnErase in Norton Utilities, for example. Fortunately OS/2 2.0
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has a built-in UnDelete feature which is more robust than Norton's
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approach. (Consult the online Command Reference for information on how
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to enable UNDELETE);
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(c) Timing sensitive DOS applications. Certain DOS programs that
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generate digitized sound through the PC's internal speaker may have
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distorted sound. High speed, real time data collection may be
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compromised. These problems can often be minimized or even eliminated
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using OS/2 2.0's DOS Settings.
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(d) DOS programming debuggers. DOS applications running under OS/2 2.0
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are not permitted to access the debug registers DR0-DR7 from a DOS
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session. Also, DOS debuggers will not be able to set hardware
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breakpoints, and all read/write operations to debug registers in virtual
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8086 mode will be ignored.
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Generally DOS backup programs will work under OS/2 2.0, but they may not
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capture some of the OS/2 data (especially extended attributes) on the
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hard disk. OS/2 backup tools are available, notably IBM's PMTape, Sytos
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Plus, EZTape/PM, and a port of GNUtar. DOS-based disk caching software
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is not required since OS/2 includes a built-in, highly configurable,
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more efficient disk cache.
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DOS programs running under OS/2 2.0 are extremely fast. A single DOS
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application (no other applications open) running full screen under OS/2
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2.0 typically achieves 95-97% of the performance it would have under
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native DOS. If the DOS application performs any disk I/O it can
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actually operate faster than it would if running under native DOS. It
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is not unheard of for disk intensive DOS applications to run twice or
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even three times as fast under OS/2 2.0.
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If pure DOS is absolutely required, OS/2 2.0 includes a utility called
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the Boot Manager. The Boot Manager can provide a menu listing all the
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operating systems available on the system and will allow selection of
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any one at startup, with a default after timeout. The OS/2 1.x DualBoot
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method is still available as well. Consult the OS/2 2.0 Installation
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Guide for instructions on how to configure your system to use Boot
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Manager or DualBoot. Note that OS/2 2.0 need not be installed on Drive
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C -- it can reside on other volumes.
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Compatibility with Windows, a popular DOS extender, is provided by Win-
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OS/2, an environment based on Microsoft's Windows source code. It runs
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Windows 2.x and 3.0 real mode and standard mode applications under OS/2
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2.0, either on a full screen Windows desktop (with the familiar Program
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Manager and one or more Windows applications) or "seamlessly," alongside
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OS/2 applications on the WPS desktop. "Seamless" operation is available
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in VGA and XGA resolutions with OS/2 2.0 as it ships; see Question 11
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for information on third party drivers.
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CVTICO, a popular utility available from the OS/2 shareware/freeware
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sources (see Question 9), will convert Windows icons for use by the OS/2
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Icon Editor and/or OS/2-specific programs. (No conversion is necessary
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if the icons are to be used with Windows programs running under OS/2
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2.0.)
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OS/2 2.0 directly provides Windows enhanced mode features save one:
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services included in WINMEM32.DLL. Windows applications which utilize
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this DLL (e.g. Mathematica 2.0, Omnipage Professional 1.0) will not run
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under OS/2 2.0. Fortunately the number of WINMEM32 applications is few,
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and apparently the vendors of such applications will be shipping OS/2
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2.0 compatible updates.
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Windows applications are well integrated into the overall OS/2 WPS
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environment with DDE and Clipboard hooks, and OLE 1.0 is supported among
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Windows applications. Adobe Type Manager for Win-OS/2 comes with OS/2
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2.0 (see Question 25). Windows screen (for a full screen desktop) and
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printer device drivers will work under Win-OS/2. Such notorious Windows
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applications as Word for Windows, Norton Desktop (save portions
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described above), Toolbook, and screen savers such as After Dark work
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fine under Win-OS/2. Even the Windows Multimedia Extensions (and
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programs which utilize them) operate under Win-OS/2.
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Win-OS/2 departs from Microsoft Windows in that it allows more than one
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Windows desktop and can preemptively (rather than cooperatively)
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multitask Windows applications in separate, robust, protected sessions.
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Also, while the enhancements incorporated into Windows 3.1 are
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functionally incorporated into Win-OS/2, Win-OS/2 is not technically
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Windows 3.1 compatible. IBM has demonstrated 3.1-level Win-OS/2, and it
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is widely rumored that a free 3.1-level update will be available this
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summer. Aside from the Windows 3.1 applets there are no Windows 3.1-
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specific applications available. (Win-OS/2 will run the Windows 3.0
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applets, but it does not include them. Instead, a vast assortment of
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true OS/2 2.0 applets are provided, including a spreadsheet, database
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program, asynchronous communications program, time planning/scheduling
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applets, a true programmer's editor, the System Editor, an icon editor,
|
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games, and much more.)
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------------------------------
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(5) Where can I buy OS/2?
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Microsoft versions of OS/2 1.x are available only through OEMs (e.g.
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Compaq, Dell) or by purchasing Microsoft's LAN Manager 2.1 or SQL Server
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products. Microsoft has all but ceased OS/2 development, working
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instead on Windows and the future, high-end NT (formerly OS/2 3.0).
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IBM OS/2 Version 2.0 is available from most software dealers (including
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Elek-Tek, tel. 708-677-7660) and directly from IBM (tel. 800-3-IBM-OS2,
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800-465-1234 in Canada). OS/2 2.0 on 3.5 inch disks is part no.
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84F7586. For 5.25 inch disks, 10G2991. Media are high density. For
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compact disc, 10G2992. IBM OS/2 Version 1.3 is still available and may
|
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be ordered through many IBM dealers.
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IBM is trying to make OS/2 2.0 available everywhere DOS is purchased.
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If your dealer does not stock OS/2 2.0, call IBM's order line and
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mention the name of your dealer when you place your order. IBM also has
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plans to bundle OS/2 2.0 with new PS/1, PS/2, and non-IBM systems.
|
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|
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------------------------------
|
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(6) How much does OS/2 2.0 cost?
|
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IBM OS/2 2.0 retails for USD 195. However, in the United States
|
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introductory pricing is available through July 31, 1992, by calling
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IBM's order line (800-3-IBM-OS2). Upgrades are free from OS/2 1.x, USD
|
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49 from any version of Windows, USD 99 from any version of DOS, and USD
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139 without an upgrade. (An OS/2 1.x to 2.0 upgrade form, which you can
|
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print out and send in, is available from OS/2 shareware/freeware
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sources, see Question 9. Version 1.x Extended Edition licensees receive
|
||
a free upgrade to OS/2 2.0 and ES/2 1.0; Version 1.x LAN Server
|
||
licensees receive LAN Server 2.0 at no charge. All free OS/2 1.x to 2.0
|
||
upgrades are available until August 24, 1992.) Similar promotions are
|
||
in effect in Canada and other countries. Special pricing is available
|
||
for multiple OS/2 licenses. Educational discounts are available but may
|
||
not apply to the introductory prices. (IBM's educational inquiries line
|
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in the U.S. is 800-222-7257.)
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
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(7) What hardware do I need to run IBM OS/2 2.0? Do I need a PS/2?
|
||
|
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You need any PC, PC compatible, PS/1, or PS/2 with at least an 80386SX
|
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CPU, 4 MB (6 MB or more strongly recommended) of RAM (configured as 640K
|
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base plus the remainder as extended memory, with at least 3968K total
|
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RAM after system use), a 60 MB or larger hard disk (with 15-30 MB free),
|
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a supported video adapter (CGA, EGA, VGA, 8514/A, XGA, or third party
|
||
driver) with appropriate display, and a high density 3.5 or 5.25 inch
|
||
floppy drive for installation. A mouse or other pointing device is
|
||
strongly recommended. Allow extra RAM and hard disk space for OS/2-
|
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based networking, ES/2, and/or extra system loads (i.e. an extraordinary
|
||
number of large applications running simultaneously). When calculating
|
||
hard disk space requirements, subtract space occupied by files already
|
||
on the hard disk which are functionally included in OS/2 2.0 and may be
|
||
deleted, e.g. DOS, a 386 memory manager, Windows, Adobe Type Manager
|
||
with base typefaces, etc.
|
||
|
||
The WPS will not operate with the Monochrome Display Adapter or the
|
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Hercules Monochrome Graphics Adapter. Usually the WPS will fail to work
|
||
with monochrome EGA. However, some EGA adapters (e.g. Paradise
|
||
Monochrome EGA Card, ATI EGA Wonder) will emulate all color EGA modes on
|
||
TTL monochrome monitors and, thus, will work with the WPS.
|
||
|
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On (E)ISA bus machines, OS/2 specifically supports hard drive adapters
|
||
which conform to the Western Digital chipset interface standard (i.e.
|
||
nearly all MFM, RLL, IDE, and ESDI adapters) and Adaptec, Future Domain,
|
||
and IBM SCSI adapters. In addition, "generic" INT13 support is provided
|
||
for all other hard disk adapters. This "generic" support even embraces
|
||
such devices as Iomega's Bernoulli and SyQuest's removeable media
|
||
products. CD-ROM support is included as well. At present the OS/2 CD-
|
||
ROM driver does not work with all brands, but the DOS device drivers,
|
||
when suitably configured and installed, will still provide CD-ROM
|
||
services to DOS/Windows programs. Printer and plotter support is
|
||
discussed in Question 12.
|
||
|
||
Version 2.0 is explicitly supported on PC compatibles. IBM is offering
|
||
a money back compatibility guarantee in the United States. Should OS/2
|
||
2.0 fail to work on your compatible within the first 90 days of use, and
|
||
should IBM be unable to fix the problem, your purchase price will be
|
||
refunded. To date over 200 non-IBM models have been tested in IBM's own
|
||
labs.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(8) What applications are available for OS/2?
|
||
|
||
In addition to the thousands of applications available for DOS and
|
||
Windows, there are a couple thousand OS/2-specific applications
|
||
representing almost every category imaginable.
|
||
|
||
The DOS/Windows applications with 16-bit OS/2-specific counterparts
|
||
include Lotus 1-2-3, Freelance, Microsoft Word, Excel, Multiplan, Aldus
|
||
Pagemaker, Ventura Publisher, Corel Draw, WordPerfect, DisplayWrite,
|
||
DeScribe, Micrografx Designer, AutoCAD, Oracle, RBase, SAS, SPSS,
|
||
HyperAccess/5, DynaComm, Pro-YAM, Borland Sidekick, Paradox, Wingz,
|
||
Brief, QEdit, 4DOS, and many others. In some cases DOS and OS/2
|
||
versions ship together (e.g. Microsoft Word 5.5, Lotus 1-2-3 3.0,
|
||
Wingz).
|
||
|
||
OS/2 2.0 provides an attractive, 32-bit, Workplace Shell environment for
|
||
new applications; many do not have DOS/Windows predecessors. This new
|
||
class of 32-bit applications will include Lotus 1-2-3, Freelance,
|
||
cc:Mail, Notes, AmiPro, WordPerfect 6.0, N/Joy, DeScribe, Publisher's
|
||
Paintbrush, PFS:Works, CorelDraw, HyperAccess, Sybase, FAX/PM, and many
|
||
more. Over 1000 new 32-bit OS/2 2.0 applications are slated for release
|
||
in the next year.
|
||
|
||
OS/2-specific versions of popular utilities include PKZIP/UNZIP, SEA's
|
||
ARC, LHA, Zoo 2.1, many GNU tools, tens of different file finders,
|
||
desktop clocks, calculators, and many more. Programming languages
|
||
include Assembler, C++, COBOL, Pascal, C, Fortran, BASIC, REXX (included
|
||
with every copy of OS/2 2.0), Smalltalk, Modula-2, LISP, Forth, and
|
||
still more, from vendors such as Borland, Jensen and Partners
|
||
International, Watcom, Symantec (through its Zortech subsidiary), IBM,
|
||
Microway, and many more. A full 32-bit development package, GNU C/C++
|
||
2.1, is available from OS/2 shareware/freeware sources (see Question 9).
|
||
|
||
The IBM NSC BBS (tel. 404-835-6600) provides an online product database
|
||
of OS/2-specific software. A directory of OS/2 applications, IBM
|
||
document number G362-0029-00, is published by Graphics Plus, tel. 800-
|
||
READ-OS2. TINF is an applications listing (for use with the OS/2 help
|
||
facility) available from the shareware/freeware sources listed below.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(9) Where can I obtain OS/2 shareware and freeware?
|
||
|
||
Many BBSes hold large OS/2 libraries. Fernwood (tel. 203-483-0348) has
|
||
over 50 MB worth. The OS/2 Shareware BBS (703-385-4325), Bay Area OS/2
|
||
BBS (510-657-7948), and Greater Chicago Online (708-895-4042) carry
|
||
still more. The IBM NSC BBS has some shareware/freeware as well, along
|
||
with CSDs (see Question 24) and the PS/2 Assistant (an invaluable
|
||
resource for locating almost any sort of information on OS/2). IBM
|
||
Canada maintains several support BBSes (604-664-6466, 416-946-4255, and
|
||
514-938-3022 at 2400 bps; 604-664-6464 and 416-946-4244 at 9600 bps).
|
||
Information on IBM's new OS/2 BBS is included in the OS/2 2.0 package.
|
||
|
||
The Usenet conference comp.binaries.os2 carries OS/2 software. And
|
||
several sites are available via anonymous ftp. (No ftp? Send a single
|
||
line message with the word HELP to bitftp@pucc.bitnet or
|
||
ftpmail@decwrl.dec.com to learn about ftp mail servers.) They include
|
||
(with Internet node numbers and subdirectories):
|
||
|
||
hobbes.nmsu.edu 128.123.35.151 pub/os2, pub/os2-1.x
|
||
mtsg.ubc.ca 137.82.27.1 os2:
|
||
luga.latrobe.edu.au 131.172.2.2 pub/os2
|
||
msdos.archive.umich.edu 141.211.164.153 msdos/os2
|
||
funic.funet.fi 128.214.6.100 pub/os2
|
||
sun0.urz.uni-heidelberg.de 129.206.100.126 pub/os2
|
||
novell.com 130.57.4.1 os2
|
||
|
||
The last site should not be accessed weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30
|
||
p.m. Pacific Time.
|
||
|
||
Other sources include CompuServe ("GO IBMOS2") and a Bitnet/EARN archive
|
||
(send a single line message with the word HELP to
|
||
LISTSERV@BLEKUL11.BITNET for more information).
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(10) I am having trouble installing OS/2 2.0. What should I do?
|
||
|
||
First consult the Installation Guide and other materials accompanying
|
||
OS/2 2.0. Make sure your PC meets the system requirements in Question
|
||
7.
|
||
|
||
And if the following instructions do not help, fall back on IBM's toll
|
||
free technical support (available in the U.S. and described in the OS/2
|
||
2.0 package).
|
||
|
||
Certain PC compatibles have difficulty accepting OS/2 2.0 (CSD level
|
||
02000 only; see Question 24), particularly AT bus systems with RLL, MFM,
|
||
ESDI, or certain SCSI adapters (e.g. AMI SCSI adapters). The problem
|
||
usually appears in the form of FDISK errors, extremely slow copying to
|
||
the hard disk, or a whining/grating noise emanating from the hard disk.
|
||
|
||
IBM suggests a simple workaround. First, DISKCOPY Diskette 1 of your
|
||
OS/2 2.0 package. Set aside your original Diskette 1 and use the copy
|
||
from now on as if it were the original. Using a text editor, modify the
|
||
CONFIG.SYS file on Diskette 1 (the copy), replacing the line
|
||
"basedev=ibm1s506.add" with "rem basedev=ibm1s506.add." Boot the
|
||
Installation Disk, and proceed through the installation procedure
|
||
through the first five diskettes, then reinsert the Installation
|
||
Diskette as directed. Then after files have been copied from the
|
||
Installation Diskette the system prompts you to remove the diskette and
|
||
press ENTER to reboot. Do so, but immediately reinsert the Installation
|
||
Diskette as soon as the screen clears. Follow instructions (insert
|
||
Diskette 1 and press ENTER when prompted), then press ESC when prompted.
|
||
At the OS/2 command line, type:
|
||
RENAME C:\OS2\IBM1S506.ADD IBM1S506.XXX
|
||
COPY C:\OS2\IBMINT13.ADD C:\OS2\IBM1S506.ADD
|
||
replacing C: with the appropriate drive if you are installing elsewhere.
|
||
Remove Diskette 1, then press CTRL-ALT-DEL to reboot and to finish
|
||
installation.
|
||
|
||
The mouse selection menu provided when installing is a bit confusing.
|
||
The Logitech Mouse selection should be chosen if you have a Mouse
|
||
Systems PC Mouse or a Logitech C7 or C9 serial mouse ONLY. If you have
|
||
another Logitech pointing device, it is Microsoft compatible when
|
||
powered up, so select the appropriate Microsoft driver. If you are
|
||
using a Logitech C7 or C9 mouse and have been using native DOS, be sure
|
||
to issue the command MOUSE PC (or MOUSE 2 PC if your mouse is attached
|
||
to COM2) before booting into or installing OS/2. Alternatively, turn
|
||
off the system (to reset the mouse) before booting or installing OS/2.
|
||
(The Logitech Support BBS can be reached at 510-795-0408.)
|
||
|
||
Some PCs have trouble printing under OS/2 2.0. This problem can often
|
||
be traced to an interrupt conflict, or a substandard cable or printer
|
||
adapter. LPT1 uses IRQ 7 and LPT2, if installed, uses IRQ 5.
|
||
Interrupts should not be shared on AT bus machines. The SoundBlaster
|
||
card, for example, comes set to IRQ 7. Reset it to an unused interrupt.
|
||
|
||
Make sure adapters with on board ROMs are not conflicting with other
|
||
adapters. For example, many SuperVGA adapters use large chunks of upper
|
||
memory, and many hard disk adapters have on board ROMs which can be
|
||
mapped into this area and conflict. Adapters must cooperate in their
|
||
use of memory and interrupts and must not share address space or
|
||
interrupts. Check your product manuals for more help.
|
||
|
||
Be sure adequate free disk space is available before installing,
|
||
including space for a swap file. Drives compressed using Stacker or
|
||
similar utilities should be uncompressed before installing (unless
|
||
access to these drives is not needed). OS/2 2.0 is not presently
|
||
compatible with Stacker or similar utilities. However, an OS/2 2.0
|
||
version of Stacker is forthcoming.
|
||
|
||
Do not select HPFS when installing if your machine has 6 MB of RAM or
|
||
less. Doing so will likely result in diminished performance.
|
||
|
||
Automatic migration of your CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files is not
|
||
recommended. If you have Windows 3.1 installed on your system do not
|
||
migrate your Windows desktop.
|
||
|
||
Be sure your CMOS setup parameters are set correctly, especially those
|
||
relating to floppy drives.
|
||
|
||
Be certain your adapter's sector translation mode is enabled if you are
|
||
using an MFM, RLL, or ESDI hard disk drive with more than 1024
|
||
cylinders. The 1024 cylinder limit is a BIOS constraint.
|
||
|
||
Certain Quantum IDE hard disk drives require a free ROM update from the
|
||
manufacturer to work with OS/2.
|
||
|
||
"Autoswitching" on non-IBM EGA adapters should be disabled (usually with
|
||
a DIP switch or jumper setting). In rare cases it may be necessary to
|
||
switch third party VGA adapters into 8-bit mode.
|
||
|
||
OS/2 is particularly sensitive to bad RAM (often reflected in TRAP 2
|
||
error messages). Use a thorough RAM testing utility, and try not to mix
|
||
9 chip and 3 chip SIMMs/SIPPs.
|
||
|
||
The HP DeskJet and DeskJet Plus printers work, without loss of
|
||
functionality, using the Epson EPL-7000 driver (with Fast System Fonts
|
||
disabled and bin selection ignored). An explicit choice at installation
|
||
is provided for the DeskJet 500 -- look carefully. The Epson EPL-7000
|
||
driver may also be used to operate the DeskJet 500. As of this writing
|
||
a DeskJet 500C color driver (for OS/2-specific programs) is not yet
|
||
available.
|
||
|
||
Allow several minutes for OS/2 2.0 to build your desktop (and display
|
||
icons) at the end of installation -- take the Tutorial offered to you in
|
||
the meantime. Select Shutdown and reboot once after installation
|
||
completes to ensure that DOS/Windows applications will operate properly.
|
||
Avail yourself of the "Start Me" icon, the other online help, and the
|
||
README file located in the root directory. They will help in getting
|
||
started with the Workplace Shell, the new paradigm introduced with OS/2
|
||
2.0, and in properly configuring your system.
|
||
|
||
When installing over a beta version of OS/2 be sure to reformat.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(11) Will OS/2 2.0 work with my SuperVGA adapter?
|
||
|
||
If you have a SuperVGA adapter, OS/2 2.0 should initially be installed
|
||
using the standard VGA driver. (If you have an ATI Vantage or Ultra
|
||
adapter, or some other 8514/A hardware compatible adapter, install using
|
||
the 8514/A driver.) Then consult the README file OS/2 copies to your
|
||
root directory for more information on SuperVGA support.
|
||
|
||
OS/2 2.0 comes with basic mode switching capabilities to handle
|
||
applications which utilize SuperVGA modes. If OS/2 2.0 detects a
|
||
SuperVGA adapter it will list two SuperVGA support files, VSVGA.SYS and
|
||
BVHSVGA.DLL, in your CONFIG.SYS file. (A replacement VSVGA.SYS file,
|
||
fixing Tseng 4000 and TRAP E problems, is available from
|
||
shareware/freeware sources under the name VSVGAFX1; see Question 9.)
|
||
But to enable this mode switching support you must start a DOS full
|
||
screen session, issue the command SVGA ON, EXIT, Shutdown, and reboot.
|
||
SVGA ON creates a text file called \OS2\SVGADATA.PMI which describes
|
||
your SuperVGA adapter to the system. Then you may install high
|
||
resolution drivers. Aside from DOS applications (which may require
|
||
their own drivers), OS/2 2.0 requires up to three high resolution
|
||
support files:
|
||
|
||
\OS2\DLL\DISPLAY.DLL Workplace Shell display driver
|
||
\OS2\MDOS\WINOS2\SYSTEM\VGA.DRV Win-OS/2 full screen driver
|
||
\OS2\MDOS\WINOS2\SYSTEM\SWINVGA.DRV Win-OS/2 "seamless" driver
|
||
|
||
You may replace any one of these individually for high resolution
|
||
operation in each given mode, but be sure to keep a backup copy of the
|
||
original file(s). The "seamless" Win-OS/2 and WPS desktop driver files
|
||
must match (in terms of resolution and number of colors) if you wish to
|
||
run Windows programs "seamlessly." Any suitable Windows 3.0 SuperVGA
|
||
driver will work as a Win-OS/2 full screen driver, but be sure to use
|
||
the EXPAND utility (as described in README) when installing.
|
||
|
||
OS/2 1.3 SuperVGA drivers often serve, with some limitations, as WPS
|
||
desktop drivers. Use the command DDINSTAL to replace DISPLAY.DLL.
|
||
Setting IOPL=YES in CONFIG.SYS may be required when installing a new
|
||
DISPLAY.DLL.
|
||
|
||
As of this writing Trident is the only third party vendor with OS/2 2.0
|
||
high resolution drivers, although several other manufacturers have
|
||
promised drivers. When available they will be provided through OS/2
|
||
shareware/freeware sources (see Question 9).
|
||
|
||
IBM was unable to test all SuperVGA adapters, so if you are experiencing
|
||
problems report them through IBM's toll free support (in the U.S.,
|
||
described in the OS/2 2.0 package) or to the adapter manufacturer.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(12) Will OS/2 2.0 work with my printer?
|
||
|
||
OS/2 2.0 includes support for the Hewlett-Packard LaserJet, DeskJet (see
|
||
Question 10), and PaintJet families; IBM ExecJets, Proprinters,
|
||
Quickwriters, Quietwriters, Pageprinters, and Laserprinters; Epson dot
|
||
matrix and laser printers; Postscript devices; and other printers (e.g.
|
||
Panasonic) compatible with these families. A variety of IBM and HP
|
||
plotters is also supported.
|
||
|
||
DOS/Windows printer drivers continue to work for DOS/Windows
|
||
applications. OS/2 2.0 includes a large assortment of Windows printer
|
||
drivers for Win-OS/2. If necessary install Windows printer drivers
|
||
using the Win-OS/2 Control Panel. OS/2 2.0 and OS/2 1.3 printer drivers
|
||
are interchangeable.
|
||
|
||
If your printer is not compatible with one of the drivers supplied with
|
||
OS/2, check with the printer manufacturer first then with OS/2
|
||
shareware/freeware sources (see Question 9). If you own an IBM printer,
|
||
check with the Lexmark BBS (tel. 606-232-5653).
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(13) How do I access HPFS partitions on my hard drive without booting
|
||
from the hard drive? I'm getting error messages now -- how do I
|
||
"repair" my hard disk?
|
||
|
||
With IBM OS/2 2.0, insert the Installation Diskette, Shutdown (if
|
||
necessary), and reboot. When prompted insert Diskette 1 and press
|
||
ENTER. When prompted, press ESC. You will be given an OS/2 command
|
||
line prompt. From there you can make necessary changes to your hard
|
||
disk -- an OS/2 character mode text editor is handy for such changes.
|
||
(Make sure you backup CONFIG.SYS before making any changes so that you
|
||
can easily revert to the old version should things go wrong.)
|
||
|
||
You may use this diskette boot method to run CHKDSK on your DOS FAT,
|
||
OS/2 FAT, or OS/2 HPFS partitions. After you reach the command line,
|
||
insert Diskette 2. Then type A:\CHKDSK X: /F to repair most kinds of
|
||
damage to your hard disk, replacing X with the appropriate drive letter.
|
||
OS/2 CHKDSK will also remark your hard disk, if possible, as accessible
|
||
should OS/2 "lock it out" for some reason.
|
||
|
||
The best way to avoid the need to perform CHKDSK is to always select
|
||
Shutdown. Click on the Workplace Shell desktop background using mouse
|
||
button two to bring up the appropriate menu. Also, avoid deleting OS/2-
|
||
related files when using native DOS.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(14) I can't install OS/2 2.0 from Drive B. What's wrong?
|
||
|
||
IBM OS/2 2.0 can only be installed from Drive A, like DOS (unless your
|
||
BIOS supports booting from Drive B), or across a network (contact IBM
|
||
for more information on network installation procedures). If you have
|
||
the wrong disk size go back to your dealer and obtain the correct media.
|
||
Otherwise you could go inside your machine and swap floppy drive cable
|
||
connectors, use your system's setup utility to set the new CMOS
|
||
parameters, and then install OS/2 from the "new" Drive A. Sometimes the
|
||
floppy drive cable connectors will not be the same. If so you can
|
||
obtain an adapter plug.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(15) Is there a Norton Utilities for OS/2?
|
||
|
||
Not yet, although Norton Desktop, Norton Utilities, and Norton Commander
|
||
all work under OS/2 2.0's DOS/Windows sessions (with limitations noted
|
||
in Question 4). But the GammaTech Utilities should fill the role.
|
||
Contact their publisher at tel. 405-359-1219. Note that OS/2 2.0 has a
|
||
built-in UnDelete utility (see the README file or online help), and HPFS
|
||
is resistant to fragmentation (see Question 18).
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(16) Sometimes OS/2 2.0 will freeze when I run an application? What do
|
||
I do?
|
||
|
||
Before rebooting with CTRL-ALT-DEL, try CTRL-ESC. Do not hit additional
|
||
keys, do not move the mouse. Wait up to a minute. In most cases the
|
||
Window List or an error message will pop up. If you wish you may close
|
||
the offending application at that point. Try ALT-ESC if you have
|
||
disabled CTRL-ESC in that application's DOS Settings.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(17) My dealer doesn't know OS/2 from Unix. How can I get answers to
|
||
my OS/2 questions?
|
||
|
||
If your question is not answered in this List, post a note to the
|
||
appropriate Usenet conference: comp.os.os2.apps carries discussions
|
||
related to finding or using any application running under OS/2,
|
||
comp.os.os2.programmer addresses anything related to OS/2 programming,
|
||
and comp.os.os2.misc is for any other OS/2-related discussion. These
|
||
groups are watched closely by IBM's OS/2 development team. Also,
|
||
comp.lang.rexx discusses REXX programming. BLEKUL11 (on Bitnet/EARN)
|
||
distributes its own OS/2 conference by mail; send a single line message
|
||
with the word HELP to LISTSERV@BLEKUL11.BITNET for full instructions.
|
||
An unedited mailing list is also available; send a single line message
|
||
with the word HELP to LISTSERV@FRORS12.BITNET.
|
||
|
||
Your local FidoNet BBS may carry OS/2 echo conferences. If not, ask
|
||
your system operator to get ahold of them. CompuServe ("GO IBMOS2") and
|
||
Prodigy are also excellent resources.
|
||
|
||
The IBM NSC BBS was established as a support forum. That BBS's message
|
||
areas, product database, and PS/2 Assistant file(s) are invaluable
|
||
resources. Information on the new OS/2 BBS is included in the OS/2 2.0
|
||
package. In the United States IBM has toll free technical support
|
||
(described in the OS/2 2.0 package; report problems there), an OS/2
|
||
Hotline (general information, orders, upgrades, tel. 800-3-IBM-OS2), the
|
||
HelpWare Center (tel. 800-PS2-2227), and an educational inquiries line
|
||
(see Question 6). In Canada call IBM Personal Systems Software at 800-
|
||
465-1234. OS/2 2.0 developers should contact the IBM Developer
|
||
Assistance Program at 407-982-6408. IBM offers classes worldwide to
|
||
help in using and programming OS/2 2.0; call your local IBM branch
|
||
office (or the OS/2 Hotline) for more information.
|
||
|
||
OS/2 has its own magazines as well. To subscribe to IBM Personal
|
||
Systems Developer, a quarterly publication, telephone 407-982-1105. For
|
||
information on OS/2 Monthly send netmail to JDS Publishing at
|
||
72550.2440@compuserve.com or telephone 908-985-8358.
|
||
|
||
OS/2 2.0 books include Deitel and Kogan, "The Design of OS/2," Addison-
|
||
Wesley, ISBN 0-201-54889-5; and Que's "Using OS/2 2.0." Your bookstore
|
||
should be able to order these and other titles.
|
||
|
||
Any of the regular DOS or Windows resources (e.g. books, magazines,
|
||
shareware/freeware sources) will be useful since both environments come
|
||
with OS/2 2.0.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(18) Why should I use HPFS? What does it offer me? Does it work with
|
||
DOS?
|
||
|
||
HPFS offers long file names (up to 254 characters including the path,
|
||
greatly exceeding the "8 dot 3" limit in FAT/DOS file systems),
|
||
resistance to file fragmentation, improved media error handling, and
|
||
speedier disk operation, particularly on large hard disks, on systems
|
||
with more than 6 MB of RAM. HPFS is not case sensitive, although it
|
||
does preserve case in file names.
|
||
|
||
However, HPFS is not currently supported on removeable media, although
|
||
some programs (e.g. BACKUP) preserve long file names on such FAT disks.
|
||
Also, native mode DOS cannot access a HPFS partition. However,
|
||
DOS/Windows sessions running under OS/2 can use all files that conform
|
||
to the "8 dot 3" naming conventions, even if they are stored on HPFS
|
||
volumes.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(19) I'm a Unix wizard. How do I make OS/2 resemble Unix?
|
||
|
||
A great number of GNU and Unix utilities have been ported to OS/2 native
|
||
mode and are available from the shareware/freeware sources listed above.
|
||
A uucp package, UUPC/Extended, is available via anonymous ftp from
|
||
sun.soe.clarkson.edu, directory pub/uupc; netmail help@kew.com with
|
||
questions.
|
||
|
||
In addition, the Hamilton C Shell is available from Hamilton Labs, tel.
|
||
508-358-5715 or netmail 3890321@mcimail.com. The Thompson Toolkit, a
|
||
Bourne-like shell, is published by Thompson Automation, tel. 206-224-
|
||
1639. Thompson offers a version of awk as well. MKS (tel. 519-884-2251
|
||
or netmail pat@mks.com) publishes a number of standard Unix utilities
|
||
for OS/2. Argosoft (tel. 510-795-7921) publishes ARGO/UX, a BSD 4.3
|
||
Unix compatible environment. For OS/2-specific X Windows server
|
||
support, IBM provides an optional package available with its TCP/IP 1.2
|
||
for OS/2. The TCP/IP 1.2 base package includes a news reader as a
|
||
sample application.
|
||
|
||
DOS and Windows based utilities and aids still work fine under OS/2 2.0.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(20) I prefer Windows. How do I make OS/2 2.0 resemble Windows (or
|
||
OS/2 1.3)?
|
||
|
||
At first the Workplace Shell may seem strange and different. Use it for
|
||
a while and then decide.
|
||
|
||
If you still feel you want change how OS/2 2.0 works, follow the
|
||
instructions beginning on p. 29 in the "Migrating to the OS/2 Workplace
|
||
Shell" booklet.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(21) I would like to set up an OS/2 BBS. What is available?
|
||
|
||
OS/2 is an excellent environment for BBS operation (even using
|
||
DOS/Windows software), including large multiline facilities. Related
|
||
software will enable FidoNet capabilities, gateways to Usenet/UUCP,
|
||
nodelist processing, additional file transfer protocols, and more.
|
||
|
||
Five popular OS/2-specific BBSes are Maximus and Simplex (available from
|
||
the shareware/freeware sources listed above), Omega Point/2 (BBS tel.
|
||
404-564-1961), Magnum (tel. 818-706-9800, BBS tel. 818-706-9805), and
|
||
Multi-Net (tel. 503-883-8099, BBS tel. 503-883-8197).
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(22) Can I use COM3 and COM4 in OS/2?
|
||
|
||
COM3 and COM4 are supported on PS/2s without any additional effort. On
|
||
(E)ISA machines, some additions are required to CONFIG.SYS. Using a
|
||
text editor, include "(port number, base address, interrupt number)"
|
||
parameters next to the COM.SYS and VCOM.SYS filenames. One example:
|
||
DEVICE=C:\OS2\COM.SYS (3,3E8,5) (4,2E8,3)
|
||
DEVICE=C:\OS2\MDOS\VCOM.SYS (3,3E8,5) (4,2E8,3)
|
||
You do not have to include parameters for COM1 and COM2 (unless they are
|
||
somehow nonstandard).
|
||
|
||
Note that AT bus COM ports cannot be used at the same time if they share
|
||
interrupts because of bus design limitations (cf. Roger C. Alford,
|
||
"Under the Hood: How Interrupts Work," Byte, February, 1992, pp. 249-
|
||
256). PolyCom, a replacement driver available from the OS/2
|
||
shareware/freeware sources (see Question 9), supports up to eight ports
|
||
with the right hardware.
|
||
|
||
"Smart" (coprocessor controlled) multiport communication adapters should
|
||
be used when installing more than four ports. Such an adapter will work
|
||
with OS/2 if the manufacturer has written an appropriate driver.
|
||
Examples include IBM's ARTIC products, Digitalk (tel. 213-645-1082) and
|
||
Stargate (tel. 800-782-7428) adapters.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(23) How do I start a background process from the OS/2 command line?
|
||
|
||
Look up the START and DETACH commands in the online Command Reference.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(24) What are CSDs, how do I tell which I have, and where do I get
|
||
them?
|
||
|
||
CSDs are Corrective Service Diskettes, or bug fixes, periodically issued
|
||
by IBM. The OS/2 CSD level number may be obtained using the command
|
||
SYSLEVEL from the OS/2 command line prompt. CSDs are cumulative, i.e.
|
||
only the most recent CSD is required to bring a system up from any
|
||
previous CSD level. However, CSDs only apply within a major version
|
||
number. For example, an upgrade, not a CSD, would bring OS/2 Version
|
||
1.3 up to Version 2.0. Note also that each national language (e.g.
|
||
French, U.K. English) uses a distinct CSD.
|
||
|
||
CSDs may be ordered by anyone with an IBM customer number (usually large
|
||
sites) directly from IBM Defect Support (tel. 800-237-5511). OS/2 users
|
||
without customer numbers should ask authorized IBM dealers to order CSDs
|
||
from that source. Many dealers do not know about this program, so be
|
||
persistent. CSDs may also be downloaded from the IBM NSC BBS,
|
||
CompuServe ("GO IBMOS2"), or from other OS/2 shareware/freeware sources
|
||
(see Question 9). And CSDs may be ordered through IBM's new OS/2 BBS.
|
||
|
||
The most recent OS/2 2.0 CSD level will be listed in this List and in
|
||
the PS/2 Assistant files.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(25) How do I add new Adobe Type Manager typefaces?
|
||
|
||
OS/2 2.0 comes with built-in Adobe Type Manager for OS/2 and Win-OS/2.
|
||
A basic set of typefaces comes with OS/2 2.0 and is installed for use
|
||
under OS/2's ATM. To install these same typefaces for use under Win-
|
||
OS/2's ATM, go to the Win-OS/2 ATM Control Panel and install the
|
||
typefaces from Printer Diskette 5.
|
||
|
||
Each typeface should come with three separate files with PFB, AFM, and
|
||
PFM extensions. To install a typeface for use under Win-OS/2, use the
|
||
ATM Control Panel. To install a typeface for use with OS/2-specific
|
||
applications, select OS/2 System -> System Setup -> Font Palette -> Edit
|
||
Font... -> Add.
|
||
|
||
PFM files may converted to AFM files using the PFM2AFM utility,
|
||
available from many OS/2 shareware/freeware sources (see Question 9).
|
||
Also, AFM files for Adobe commercial typefaces can be obtained via
|
||
netmail; send a single line message with the word HELP to ps-file-
|
||
server@adobe.com for instructions.
|
||
|
||
With the exception of the basic set of typefaces that comes with OS/2
|
||
2.0, typeface files may be shared by OS/2 ATM and Win-OS/2 ATM. To do
|
||
so, install the typefaces to a directory listed in LIBPATH in CONFIG.SYS
|
||
(most conveniently \OS2\DLL).
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(26) How do I tweak OS/2 2.0 for maximum performance?
|
||
|
||
For OS/2 overall, the parameters MAXWAIT, TIMESLICE, PRIORITY,
|
||
PRIORITY_DISK_IO, and cache settings (in the DISKCACHE and/or IFS lines)
|
||
can be tweaked. These parameters are documented in the online Command
|
||
Reference.
|
||
|
||
If not using HPFS (which should only be used on systems with more than 6
|
||
MB of RAM), periodically defragment FAT partitions using an appropriate
|
||
utility. A shareware defragmenter for DOS called DOG (Disk OrGanizer)
|
||
works well. (You can boot DOS from a floppy disk to run such a
|
||
utility.)
|
||
|
||
For the Workplace Shell, drag shadows of most often used items to the
|
||
desktop or folders closer to the "surface" -- opening folders takes
|
||
time. Drag shadows of programs you use often (e.g. the Win-OS/2 full
|
||
screen Program Manager) to the Startup folder. Disable animation (go to
|
||
OS/2 System -> System Setup -> System -> Window).
|
||
|
||
For DOS programs, run full screen instead of windowed if speed is
|
||
important. In DOS Settings for each application: reduce conventional,
|
||
XMS, DPMI, and EMS memory allocations to the bare minimum required for
|
||
maximum performance; turn off VIDEO_RETRACE_EMULATION unless necessary;
|
||
adjust IDLE_SENSITIVITY; turn off DOS_BACKGROUND_EXECUTION if not
|
||
needed; change the HW_TIMER setting (particularly for games); enable
|
||
VIDEO_FASTPASTE if possible. Communications programs should use
|
||
hardware handshaking where possible (use OS/2's MODE COMx command if
|
||
necessary), and a buffered UART can prove helpful. For faster printing
|
||
set the DOS program's output port to LPTx.OS2 (where x is the printer
|
||
port number) -- use a "print to file" option if necessary. Other,
|
||
standard steps to enhance DOS performance (e.g. increasing BUFFERS in
|
||
CONFIG.SYS) of course apply.
|
||
|
||
For Windows programs, run using a full screen desktop if speed is vital.
|
||
The Win-OS/2 Full Screen icon set up by the installation program has
|
||
poor Settings. For better performance perform some of the same steps
|
||
outlined in the preceding paragraph. The same advice applies for
|
||
printer output. In addition, the Print Manager should be disabled (OS/2
|
||
provides a systemwide spooler). From the Win-OS/2 desktop close the
|
||
Print Manager, uncheck the "Use Print Manager" box from the Win-OS/2
|
||
Control Panel -> Printers section, then, using a text editor, edit the
|
||
\OS2\MDOS\WINOS2\SYSTEM.INI file, removing the ",!printman" entry from
|
||
the MAVDMApps line. (This last step will keep a warning dialog box from
|
||
appearing each time you start the Win-OS/2 desktop.) Consider disabling
|
||
the Public setting in the Clipboard.
|
||
|
||
Try reducing the number of on screen colors or dropping down in screen
|
||
resolution to enhance speed. Close (not just minimize; check the Window
|
||
List) unnecessary objects and applications. Consider adding more RAM.
|
||
|
||
Shadow RAM should be disabled (using your system's CMOS setup program)
|
||
for best performance unless that RAM is not released by the system for
|
||
use by OS/2.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(27) What networking products are available for OS/2 2.0?
|
||
|
||
In addition to DOS/Windows products, OS/2-specific TCP/IP support is
|
||
available from IBM, Essex Systems (tel. 508-532-5511), FTP Software
|
||
(send netmail to info@ftp.com), and others. NetWare Requester for OS/2
|
||
is available from Novell; NetWare server has been demonstrated by IBM.
|
||
IBM offers both NetWare and LAN Server 2.0 (basic and advanced) with LAN
|
||
Requesters. Microsoft offers LAN Manager 2.1 (which comes bundled with
|
||
OS/2 1.3) and is working on an OS/2 2.0-specific network requester. DEC
|
||
sells Pathworks for OS/2. [Banyan Vines? Others?]
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(28) Should I worry about viruses when running OS/2 2.0?
|
||
|
||
At present there are no OS/2-specific viruses. However, DOS/Windows
|
||
viruses can conceivably infect an OS/2 2.0 system. DOS/Windows
|
||
antivirus tools are just as useful in preventing such infection. Also,
|
||
IBM has an antivirus package which runs under OS/2 directly (without
|
||
DOS/Windows emulation), and others are on the way.
|
||
|
||
But OS/2 2.0 is likely to be much more resistant to viruses because of
|
||
its design. Viruses running in one virtual DOS/Windows session are
|
||
likely to be confined to that session. Low level disk access is
|
||
curtailed under OS/2 2.0, thus preventing most virus infection at that
|
||
level. And when a DOS/Windows virus does trigger, it is far less likely
|
||
to disrupt the entire system.
|
||
|
||
OS/2 2.0 is by no means virus proof -- no system is. But it should
|
||
prove more resistant to virus infection.
|
||
|
||
------------------------------
|
||
|
||
(29) Are there any clever tricks that apply to OS/2 2.0?
|
||
|
||
If you have installed the optional bitmaps, try clicking on the
|
||
Workplace Shell desktop background once with mouse button one and
|
||
pressing CTRL-ALT-SHIFT-O.
|
||
|
||
If you have a color monitor, try editing your CONFIG.SYS file so that
|
||
SET PROMPT=$e[32;40m$e[1m[$P]$e[0m
|
||
to obtain a more colorful OS/2 command line prompt. You can do the same
|
||
for your DOS sessions if you edit PROMPT in AUTOEXEC.BAT, assuming you
|
||
have ANSI.SYS loaded.
|
||
|
||
To force DIR to display your directories in alphabetical order, with the
|
||
subdirectories listed first, edit CONFIG.SYS so that
|
||
SET DIRCMD=/O:GN
|
||
and, if you wish the same for your DOS command line sessions, use DOSKEY
|
||
in AUTOEXEC.BAT (see the online Command Reference). DOSKEY also enables
|
||
command history. (Shutdown and reboot for changes to CONFIG.SYS to take
|
||
effect.)
|
||
|
||
--
|
||
Timothy F. Sipples Keeper of the OS/2 Frequently Asked Questions
|
||
sip1@ellis.uchicago.edu List, available via anonymous ftp from
|
||
Dept. of Economics 128.123.35.151, directory pub/os2/faq, or via
|
||
Univ. of Chicago 60637 netmail from LISTSERV@BLEKUL11.BITNET.
|
||
|
||
|