NewtNews-149-19Aug97
====================

by Steve Holden <newtnews@pobox.com>.  This is a weekly freeware
newsletter focusing on Newton Technologies and related topics.
NewtNews Copyright 1994-97 Steve Holden.  All rights reserved.  See
the Administrivia at end for details and FAQ info.  NewtNews Web site
is hosted at: <http://www.ridgecrest.ca.us/NewtNews/>.

This issue of NewtNews is sponsored in part by:

 + Brain Wash from Concept Kitchen wipes your screen clean --
   <http://www.conceptkitchen.com/htdocs1/products2.html#brain>

 + Buy a guide to what's on TV for your           C o u c h   F i r e !
   Newton <http://www.tempestprod.com/>

 + X-Port, KwikMenu, NewtPaint, Quicknames Pro, proCALC Ex - Newton 2.0
   solutions - <sales@landware.com> - <http://www.landware.com>

 + WinSlurp from Rare White Tiger Creations - Available via WWW at:
   <http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/heringermr/winslurp.htm>.

 + PowerTrans 3.0.2 - Multilingual Customizable Translator and Vocabulary
   Trainer - Speech on MP2K, eMate - Demo at: <http://www.travel-cs.com>

 + QuickFigure Pro v.3.1 - New version of the spreadsheet solution from
   PelicanWare! - <sales@pelicanware.com> - <http://www.pelicanware.com>

 + PowerMedia presents 'Arcade Game Pack' - Birds With Lances, Rocks
   In Space, Frogs vs. Cars - US$29.95 - <http://www.powermedia.com/~pmi>

 + PDA & HANDHELD DIRECT - Putting Technology in the Palm of Your Hand!
   800-279-4PDA 219-882-5228 [F]:219-845-0578 <http://www.pdadirect.com>

 + VITAMIN A MENU EDITOR - Stand Alone has released it's custom and caret
   menu editor and creator! - Demo at: <http://www.standalone.com/newton>

 + RidgeNet - ARA, SLIP, PPP access to the Internet from Ridgecrest, CA.
   <http://owens.ridgecrest.ca.us/RidgeNET/RidgeNETWelcome.html>


Table of Contents
-----------------

 1. Top News
 2. Comments from the Editor
 3. New and Updated Newton Technology
 4. New and Updated Newton Information
 5. Top Print Sources Of Interest
 6. NewtNews Tips and Tricks You Can Use On Your Newton
 7. Dear Newton Developer
 8. Other Handheld Technology News
 9. Other Tidbits of Information
10. What's Happening in Major Business/Technology Magazines?
11. Advertising Notes
12. Product and Service Information
13. Edupage, 11Aug97 thru 17Aug97
14. INNOVATION, 11Aug97
15. Administrivia


Top News
--------

** TRAFFIC ON COMP.SYS.NEWTON.PROGRAMMER TRIPLES?!? **

Posting traffic on the USENET newsgroup comp.sys.newton.programmer has
recently tripled since Newton, Inc. released the Newton Technology
developer tools for Macintosh and Windows for free.  It appears that this
move by Newton, Inc. was (in short term) at least very beneficial in
creating enhanced interesting in writing solutions for the Newton.  Long
term success will most likely be measured in continued traffic on the
list, an increase in newly released Newton solutions, and the most
evident gauge will be a 'similar' reduction in developer tools from other
handheld manufacturers.

** WEEKLY NEWTON PROGRAMMER CHAT **

In related news, Jim Bailey <jdb@shore.net> notes that every week on
Thursday evenings (9:30 PM EDT) there is an IRC (interrelay chat client)
discussion that focuses on programming for the Newton.  Topics vary each
week. The server is: irc.escapenet.net, the channel is: #Llamtalk.

** NEW IRDA PRINTING PATCH **

Douglas Luckie <luckie@pilot.msu.edu> noted on the USENET newsgroup
comp.sys.newton.misc the release of a new patch from Newton, Inc that
will speed up IrDA printing to IrDA savvy Hewlett-Packard LaserJet
printers for the MessagePad 2000 and the eMate 300.  For more info check
out: <http://www.newton-inc.com/product_info/sw/printpack.html#Upgrades>.

** NEWTON, INC. TO DROP APPLE BRANDING **

A recent 'MARKETING WEEK' has announced Newton, Inc is moving forward
with their new role as an independent subsidiary by removing the Apple
logo from the MessagePad 2000.  Current ads running in U.S.A. Today do
not have the Apple logo, and near term shipping product is also suppose
to be void of the six-color Apple logo. [HeadsUp]

** QUOTE OF THE WEEK **

    "If we're going to prosper we have to let go of
     the notion that for Apple to win, Microsoft has to
     lose." -- Steve Jobs, Apple's 'special advisor'.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  The New WriteRight Screen Enhancements protect your screen from
  scratches, reduce glare and improve your handwriting recognition by
  simulating the feel of writing on paper. WriteRights are available for
  all Newtons in packs of: 4-for $11.95, 8-for $18.95, and 12-for $24.95.
  Mention NewtNews and receive 10% off our 12-pack. For more information:
  415-929-1002 <Info@ConceptKitchen.com> <http://www.ConceptKitchen.com>
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  Notion 1.5 Enhanced for Newton 2.0 OS: Notion 1.5 is a powerful, easy
  to use tool that helps the mobile professional manage all the lists
  necessary to organize, integrate and communicate vital information.
  Includes Notion Connect for Import/Export from Mac or Windows desktop.
  From PelicanWare at $59.95+S&H (Upgrades $25+S&H). For more info:
  <info@pelicanware.com>. To order 800.655.6398 or visit resellers.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Comments from the Editor
------------------------

** HOW ARE YOU GOING TO GET TO WHERE YOU WANT TO BE?!? **

Forester Research just completed a survey on current vs. future desktop
PC operating system choices using 51 Fortune 1,000 companies.  Currently
the following are being deployed on 'desktops': 67% Windows 3.x, 13%
Windows 95, 10% Windows NT, and 10% Other.  In two years the projection
is: 3% Windows 3.x, 50% Windows 95/98, 43% Windows NT, and 4% Other.
[SOURCE: InfoWorld, 11Aug97, page 21]

The 'big' problem is going to be the migration from Windows 3.1 to
Windows 98, because Microsoft continues to maintain that Windows 3.1
desktops first migrate to Windows 95 and then to Windows 98, and that IS
managers should not expect direct Windows 3.1 to Windows 98 tools to be
available in the short term.

** LEARNING MORE ABOUT STONE YAMASHITA **

Last week, NewtNews wanted to learn more about one of Newton, Inc.'s new
advertising firm Stone Yamashita.  You can check out their WWW site at:
<http://www.stoneyamashita.com> but there isn't much available on the
site.  You can also check out the following pages in the book "Defying
Gravity": 01:27, 01:24, and 00:88. [EDITOR: Thanks to Flash for the
pointers.]

** SOME CORRECTIONS **

In last weeks issue we made incorrect reference that made it seem that
the Developer Depot advertisement section in MacTech magazine was
actually  'controlled by' MacTech magazine.  In reality, they are
completely separate autonomous entities that are operated by a parent
company.  For more information about this situation please contact: Neil
Ticktin <ceo@xplain.com>.

NewtNews incorrectly listed the price of Tactile Systems xWord in
the last issue of NewtNews.  The current list price is: US$20.  You
can learn more via: <http://rainbow.rmi.net/~rbruce/>.

Gerald Mesaric <gmesaric@hyperwave.com> notes that Apple CEO Sandy
Bennett's transcript from his visit to Newton Intelligence can be found
at: <http://www.rinzai.com/ni/transcripts/benett.html>.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  From your armchair, find your favorite
  shows using your Newton. Couch Fire is        C o u c h    F i r e !
  a TV  programming  guide that includes
  accurate, weekly updates via email. It combines the feel of a paper guide
  with  the intelligence of a Newton. Couch Fire's custom TV grid, searches
  and reminders mean you won't miss a thing.  <http://www.tempestprod.com/>
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  Still looking for a great screen protector?  Look at The BARRIER!!
     * Clearly Superior Protection
     * Abrasion, Chemical AND Thermal resistant
     * Indispensable!
  "Why doesn't Apple mount a Barrier on every unit? -- Marco Mailand (.ch)
  For more info: <http://www.roadrunnertracks.com> or call 800-882-8382
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


New and Updated Newton Technology
---------------------------------

** HOME INVENTORY SOLUTION DISCOUNTED FOR NEWTNEWS READERS **

n-Abled Solutions <http://www.n-abled.com> has announced the release of
Home Contents Inventory v1.0 for Newton -- a tool that was designed to
take notice of all of your possessions, including tracking costs, and
appraised values.  A demo has been posted to the WWW site listed above.
NewtNews readers can purchase the software for a limited time for
US$59.95 by mentioning NewtNews while ordering direct from n-Abled
Solutions (908.766.4043).  The list price of the software is US$79.95.

** MONTHLY GECKO MAGAZINE POSTED IN NEWTON BOOK FORMAT **

Gerald Fox <geraldfox@aol.com> has posted his Sep97 edition of Gecko -- a
monthly Newton magazine that includes product reviews, commentary
columns, and other fun 'Newton' stuff.  There is also a Newton Book
version that you can download to your Newton for reading when on the go.
For more info check out: <http://members.aol.com/geckoweb/gecko.html>.

** MAHJONGG GET BUG FIX **

Scrawl Software <http://www.scrawlsoft.com> has announced the availability
of Mahjongg 2.1 (ancient chinese game) -- a minor upgrade to 2.0 which
fixes several minor bugs that were found.  This version takes advantage
of the larger screen and greyscale capability of the newest generation of
Newton products.  It should also be noted that unlike earlier versions of
Mahjongg, versions 2.0/2.1 are crippled -- nonregistered users can only
play five different boards.  You can get more information by checking out
the URL listed above or by sending email to: <help@scrawlsoft.com>.

** NEW PRINT DRIVERS AVAILABLE WITH MORE PLANNED **

Joop Kaashoek <jck@insaltd.com> reports that INSA Limited has created
some new Newton printer drivers that will work with O'Neil Product
Development's ruggedized mobile printers.  You can download a demo
version from: <http://www.insaltd.com/oneildriver.shtml>.  INSA Limited
is also reportedly working on drivers for Comtec portable printers and
for Epson Stylus printers.

** RECENTLY POSTED NEWTON SOFTWARE **

    - Morgan Creek Medical's Footprint 1.01 [backdrop
      application] &  ProMedex 1.1v5 for Newton [point
      of care patient management]:
      <http://www.simplemed.com/>
    - Chris Frost's <jfrost@hiwaay.net> Washington
      DC's map of the Metrorail for Newton:
      <http://fly.hiwaay.net/~jfrost>
    - deep focus designs' OneTap Mute [sound volume
      control]: <http://www.deepfocus.com/>


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
$ NS BASIC  $ The latest implementation of this cool programming tool has an
$   3.6     $ easy to use graphic screen layout function, plus indexed file
$   with    $ communications, graphics and more!  Program directly on Newton
$  Visual   $ or with a PC or Mac.  Create packages in the Extras drawer and
$ Designer! $ much more. 260 pg handbook. Cost is $99+5 S&H for all Newtons.
$           $ <info@nsbasic.com>,  <http://www.nsbasic.com>,  416.264.5999
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  PDA and Handheld Direct, Everything you need for your Newton
   - Apple MessagePad 2000 Standard Model only $949.00 (#22005)
   - Apple MessagePad 2000 Business Bundle only $1099.00 (#22008)
   - MP130 Buy Back Program - Trade in your MP130 for special deals on
     MP2000 or other PDAs - Call for details: 219-882-5228
   - MP2000 Accessories: Rech. Battery $31.95 (#22209) AC Adapter $29.95
     (#22202) MP2K Pen $12.95 (#31227) -- Type II Flash Memory 4MB $98
     (#41070) 8MB $174 (#41073) 10MB $210 (#41074) 16MB $310 (#41077)
   - Revelar Connection Utilities (RCU) for Win and Mac $39.95 (#10071)
  To order 800-279-4PDA or 219-882-5228 or FAX 219-845-0578 [Source #161]
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


New and Updated Newton Information
----------------------------------

** EMATE AND CLOCKWORK GET BBC COVERAGE **

Ian Baker <newtonsales@imagian.demon.co.uk> notes that a recent BBC news
program had a story about Trevor Bayliss, the inventor of the ClockWork
radio (mentioned in a recent Edupage).  The program had some Q&A dialog
with a person from Apple, and loads of full screen shots of eMate being
'powered' by Trevor's ClockWork.

** NEW NEWTON PRODUCT ANNOUNCE LISTSERVER **

Robert Bruce <rbruce@tactile.com> has created a new software update
announcement list called "Newton Announce!".  The goal is to create a
single email point by which Newton software authors can propagate their
software press releases.  This list will be completely moderated by
Robert, so send him email directly to get a post sent to the complete
list.  For more information check out the following URL:
<http://rainbow.rmi.net/~rbruce/newtannsub.html>.

** NEWTON AT PC-CARD SIZE?!? **

Albert Zeeman <zeeman@worldonline.nl> would rather see a Newton in the
size of standard PC Card then in a Pilot size.  This way you'd always be
in sync, and you could plug-in to devices that you needed when you
decided to do something.  The first goal should be to plug the 'Newton'
PC Card into a laptop or a desktop system and let you have access to your
Newton data.  This request was inspired by the REX PC companion system
highlighted on: <http://www.franklin.com>.

** NEWTONTALK UPDATE **

Sean O'Shaughnessey <seanos@earthlink.net> reports that:

    "NewtonTalk is a mailing list that is dedicated to the
     discussion of Newton related technology.  The list is about
     3 weeks old now and has quickly grown to over 550
     subscribers (at the time of this writing) and regularly
     receives 30-60 posts per day!  Our sponsor for the month of
     August is NewtNews.

    "NewtonTalkers range from buyers to recent buyers to long
     time users to developers.  It is amazing at the amount of
     help that responses receive in just a few hours.  Some of
     the topics that have been discussed lately include:

        - How to connect to a payphone.
        - The best way to upgrade to a MP2k.
        - Which is better Pilot v. Newton.
        - What is the best modem (this is a very popular
          topic since many NewtonTalkers tend to use their
          Newtons for email and surfing.)
        - Where can I get the best price for a modem.
        - How does freezing work (most people use it but
          do you know how it works?)
        - Tips on fixing bad contrast.
        - Easter eggs
        - Heap management
        - and hundreds more.

    "When I started the list I was worried that there wouldn't be
     an interest since much of the discussion could parallel the
     newsgroups.  Obviously there is a desire to have this list
     and my favorite message lately talks about this:

    "... I don't go to the USENET anymore since if I
     fall behind there I can't follow along.  This mail
     I can read when I get a chance and stay up to date
     on the discussions ..."

     Sean O'Shaughnessey
     List Mom

You can learn more from: <http://www.esosoft.com/seano/subscribe.html>.

** USE A WEDGE TO PROP UP YOUR MP2K **

Michael Eisenman <MEisenman@symantec.com> notes that is pretty easy to
prop up the MP2K in landscape mode using a 'non-slip wedge between the
cover and the back of the MP2K."  Michael has been successfully using a
very portable "old mouse ball" as his wedge and notes that because it is
round it lets you tweak the angle better than a wedge in some other shape.

** MACWAY NEWTON MENTIONS **

Guy Kawasaki's MacWay Evangelist email listserver had a couple of Newton
blurbs recently including:

    - n-Abled Solutions' Home Contents Inventory 1.0
      <http://www.n-abled.com>
    - Borealis Home Inspector for MessagePad 2000
      <http://www.borealis-communication.com>
    - True North Gulliver [automated travel assistant]
      for Newton: demo available by calling 800.846.9278
      or by sending email to: <info@northisup.com>
    - Insanely Great Mac Classifieds [category for
      'PDA/Newton']:
      <http://www.insanely-great.com/class.html>

For more info about this excellent Apple, Macintosh, Newton, etc. ...
resource check out: <http://www.evangelist.macaddict.com/>.

It should also be noted that Apple Fellow Guy Kawasaki has an well
written and insightful article entitled "The beauty of metaphor" on page
84 of Forbes published on 25Aug97.  If every 'technology' product
followed Guy's advice in this column, then end-users would be very happy.

** OTHER NEWTON SITES WORTH A VISIT **

    - The Ultimate eMate site!:
      <http://home.sn.no/~onar/emate/>
    - MSNUG's Newton Site:
      <http://pilot.msu.edu/~luckie/msnug.htm>
    - The Newton Software Digest:
      <http://www.compulink.co.uk/~stormont/newton/weekly.htm>
    - Steve Sande <steve@pdantic.com> has posted an
      interesting read entitled "Am I Beginning To
      Dislike Windows CE?":
      <http://www.pdantic.com/n070997d.htm>


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
   WinSlurp! - Rare White Tiger Creations provides Newton Book publishing
   services and is NOW offering WinSlurp. A windows front-end to Slurpee
   which supports transferring notes back and forth between the Newton
   notepad and the PC desktop.  Available for downloading from this URL:
   <http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/heringermr/winslurp.htm>.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
   PowerMedia is your source for all the latest cutting edge Newton apps:
     + Super NotePad: Quick access arrows, encryption, tags, filters, etc.
     + DateMan 3.0: Complete agenda and contact management.
     + Stationary Construction Kit: Build your very own custom stationary.
   Commercially available at your favorite Newton retailer.  Or check out
   online demos via the following site: <http://www.powermedia.com/~pmi>.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Top Print Sources Of Interest
-----------------------------

[EDITOR: This is a collection of articles of potential interest to
NewtNews readers from the leading technology print newspapers,
newsletters, and magazines.]

** NEWTON SOLUTION SAVES INSURANCE ADJUSTERS TIME **

The publication "Insurance + Technology" published on 01Aug97 has a
section entitled "TECHNOLOGY WATCH" and it included a Newton blurb about
Seamless Software's  WriteOn-Adjuster v2.31.  This solution "enables
property claims adjusters to settle claims at the loss site in less time
than traditional, hand-written methods" by using an MP2K or MP130 in the
field to collect data and then upload the collected data to desktop PC
systems.  You can learn more by calling: 800.840.7414.

** FAMILY PC LOOKS AT HANDHELD DEVICES **

Chris Bergman <cptb-bergman@worldnet.att.net> notes that the:

    September 1997 issue of Family PC reviews the
    Message Pad 2000 and the eMate 300, as well as the
    PalmPilot Professional and Philips Velo 1 (pp 157
    - 160). The MP2K, eMate, and PalmPilot were rated
    "Family PC Recommended" with scores of 87, 85, and
    90, respectively.

    Although the PalmPilot was rated "tops" for
    keeping portable contact information, the review
    states that "for business or professional projects
    requiring more sophisticated applications, [the
    Message Pad 2000 is] the one to buy". The review
    of the eMate 300 was enthusiastic and positive,
    concluding that the "eMate 300 is a great tool -
    and a great industrial design - for anywhere, any
    time learning".

    Interestingly enough, the WinCE Velo 1 was NOT
    rated "Family PC Recommended" (score of only 81).
    The review found that "it may be too small to be
    useful", while at the same time it "doesn't fit in
    a shirt pocket". The review concludes with "Until
    [the Velo 1] incorporates handwriting recognition
    to augment the clumsy keyboard, we can't recommend
    it".

    Overall the reviews seem fair and accurate. As
    usual the PalmPilot gets good marks for low cost
    and small size, whereas, while praising the
    advanced features of both of the Newton offerings,
    the reviewer wishes they were less expensive. The
    poor review of the Velo 1 comes as a surprise,
    since it has had positive reviews in other
    magazines.

* EMATE IS WAY COOL DUDE **

Business Week <http://www.businessweek.com> recently ran an article
entitled "Apple's eMate - Cool Computer, Dude" written by Peter Burrows.
The article focuses on Thomas Meyerhoffer -- the designer of the eMate,
and how he was able to create not only an affordable mobile computer but
also that inspires kids.

** NEWTON GETS SOME GOOD COVERAGE **

The Dallas Morning News recently published an article entitled "Handheld
computers find market by scaling back uses" written by Alan Goldstein.
The article starts of with a sentence that includes "Newton" and "flop".
But notes that the latest Newton technology is experiencing a "healthy
rebirth".  The article also touches on the other main handheld operating
systems: PalmPilot, and Windows CE.  The article also include some
Dataquest projections -- in 1997 sales of devices are suppose to grow to
over 2 million units (22% increase over 1996), and by the year 2001 the
number of units sold should be in the 7.5 million range.

** NEWTON GETS BEAT OUT BY LAPTOP **

Benson Wen, President of ThinkFish (3D Graphics Technology company) notes
in Forbes (25Aug97) on page 18 in regards to how business executives use
technology -- "I use to carry around a Newton for phone numbers, but when
I got a laptop, I decided I didn't want to carry around two pieces of
heavy equipment.  So the laptop won.  But not for long. Cellphones are
getting way more complicated.  You will get addresses and calculators and
a whole lot of Pilot-like activities on them.  I bet we will see a
Pilot/cellphone that you'll be able to dock into a computer some time in
the future."

** DEFENDING THE EMATE **

The Aug97 edition of MacUser 'trashed' Apple's Newton Technology savvy
eMate 300.  Two eMate supports got their letters of displeasure printed
in the Feedback section on pages 11 and 12.   The Editors still feel
that the eMate 300 is under powered and lacking of 'true' educational
software, but note that their appears to be a huge ground swell of
support for the device.

** NEWTON USERS FIGHT FOR MP2K **

Todd Wilson has some very nice things to say about the MessagePad 2000 in
a "Letter to the MacWorld editors" entitled "Nuts about Newton" published
on page 17 of the Oct97 issue.  The Editors note that the MP2K is "in a
class all its own but still in an expensive class."

** HELPFUL MAJOR WEEKLY MAGAZINE WEB POINTERS **

    - Web Week: <http://www.webweek.com>
    - MacWeek: <http://www.macweek.com>
    - InfoWorld: <http://www.infoworld.com>
    - Computer Reseller News: <http://www.crn.com>
    - PC Week: <http://www.pcweek.com>
    - Network World: <http://www.nwfusion.com>
    - LAN Times: <http://www.lantimes.com>
    - Information Week: <http://www.informationweek.com>
    - Network Computing: <http://www.networkcomputing.com>


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
             A N N O U N C I N G   L E X I D R U G S - 97          +-------+
  K2 Consultants, Inc. has just announced the latest version of    | A R T |
  Drug Information Handbook with 5000 drugs and improved interface.+-------+
  Check out www.skyscape.com/k2 for all medical and non-medical    |  b y  |
  titles such as 5 Min. Clin Consult, Ferri's book for internists  |  K 2  |
  Archimedes Intelligent Calculator, Current Clinical Strategies   +-------+
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  Tim Constantine has several cutting edge Newton solutions: Flash - A
  Speed Reading Tutor; CrazyDice - Multi-player Strategy Game, and Clean
  Notes - Stationary w/o Lines.  For more info: <timconstan@kagi.com> or
  <http://www.kagi.com/timconstan>.  Tim is also available for custom
  Newton application development.  Send Tim email if you have a question
  about custom application development or about his cutting edge solutions.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


NewtNews Tips and Tricks You Can Use On Your Newton
---------------------------------------------------

** NO NONSENSE NUGGETS OF NEWTON KNOW HOW **

Compiled by Roger Coleman <Roger_Coleman@compuserve.com>

If you have similar tidbits for this column, please drop me a line!
<Roger_Coleman@compuserve.com>. Please include details of the Newton
model and OS that you are using.

** USE NEWTON SCREEN AS WRIST REST **

>From John A. Zinky <jzinky@bbn.com>:

    I am fairly tall (6'3") and can not use a laptop
    on an airplane because my hands naturally extend
    to the back of the tray table.  The Newton's
    detachable keyboard solves the problem.  I use the
    newton screen as wrist rest and put the keyboard
    beyond the screen, i.e backward from the typical
    keyboard in front of the screen.  The next trick
    is to get a big piece of velcro and stick the
    Newton screen at eye level on the seat in front of
    me. ;-).

** EXTENDED CHARACTER SET HWR WITH MP2K **

>From Dave Burrage <Dave_Burrage-CDB009@email.mot.com>:

    Did you know the Newton (MP2K) can recognize
    nearly all of the characters in the extended
    Macintosh character set?  For example, you can
    write a, e, i, o, or u with an umlaut (dieresis)
    above it and have it recognized correctly. Upper
    or lower case.  This is also true of the acute and
    grave accents over e's and a's and the German
    scharfes s (double ss).  All types of [brackets]
    and {braces} are recognized correctly.  The
    cedilla (as in fac,ade), the British pound (script
    L), Japanese yen, and the US cents symbols are all
    recognized correctly.  My Newton also recognizes
    rightside up and upside down exclamation points
    and question marks and tilda n, as used in
    Spanish. It recognizes the Scandanavian characters
    like the little circle above a and A in proper
    names like "Angstrom", the slashed "o", and the
    hat over "o" as in "La' Ho^pital".  It recognizes
    degrees Fahrenheit or degrees Celcius correctly.
    Dipthongs like ae and oe, section marks (styled
    S), and German quotation marks are also recognized
    with similar ease.  It even recognizes the
    backwards "P" paragraph symbol.

    Try THAT with Graffiti!

** TIPS WANTED **

Please send me any tips, hints, goodies, jokes, interesting facts or
similar bits of information for future issues of this column to me
<Roger_Coleman@compuserve.com>.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  PDA Panache is your single source for stylus solutions.  Custom stylus
  upgrades for Newton MP130 and MP2000.  Custom styli for WinCE, USR, and
  Sharp PDAs.  Wide selection of Pocket Styli for all tastes and budgets.
  Duo multi-function stylus/pen combo. Beacon L.E.D. lighted stylus. Stylus
  inserts for Cross & other popular pens.  More info: 800.270.7196 or
  516.467.4042, FAX: 516.467.6329, <http://www.PDAPanache.com> (secure)
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  PowerTrans 3.0 - Translator and Vocabulary Trainer - 60,000 Words -
  English, Spanish, German, French and Italian (no storage card required).
   + Customize the vocabulary and/or create new languages, attach notes
   + MP2K and eMate featured - speech, classroom multi-user, keyboards
   + Vocabulary Trainer - based on approved didactical learning system
  Checkout demo: <http://www.travel-cs.com> - contact: <info@travel-cs.com>
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Dear Newton Developer
---------------------

** INTRODUCTION & INCENTIVE **

This area is dedicated to trying to solve NewtNews readers programming
needs, and in turn hopefully lead to the creation of a legitimate Newton
shareware solution for the developer solving the problem.  If a developer
solves such a problem, NewtNews will give them a 50% price reduction for
any advertising service they order for that product in our Products and
Services area.  If you have a utility you need written, please let
NewtNews know by sending an email to: <newtnews@pobox.com>.

** SOME FRIENDLY SUGGESTIONS TO PAST REQUESTS **

Flash Sheridan <flash@pobox.com> suggests that Russell Sheinkopf use the
'Duplicate' routing slip to quickly create a follow-up appointment as
requested in last weeks "BETTER RE-SCHEDULING?!?"

Scott Gruby <sgruby@qualcomm.com> notes that NPReference on pages 17 - 22
has details about a native Newton function called: TimeInSeconds() that
should solve Ralf Hinz request from last week.

** A CARTOONIST'S DREAM TOOL **

Russell Sheinkopf <russells@pacificrim.net> is interested in something
he is calling the "cartoonist's dream!"  In summary:

    Replace a rough sketch with a finished drawing
    without the niggling details involved in erasing
    and replacing lines. Given sixteen shades of gray
    from 15-black to 0-null, you could draw a rough
    sketch in 15-black.

    Next, tap a button to change all 15-black to
    4-gray.

    Now use the light gray sketch as a template.
    Superimpose a revised drawing in 15-black.

    Tap a second button to change all 4-gray to
    0-null.  The rough sketch disappears, leaving
    only the revised drawing.

** POTENTIAL NEW HEAP HACK?!? **

Jason Kulas <JKULAS@BCBSCT.COM> notes that Newton, Inc. states that one
of the reasons that available heap is less on a MP2K then on a MP130 is
because of support for grayscale.  It is possible to turn the bit-depth
off?!?   And thus reclaim some heap space.  What if you only wanted 8
shades of gray, 4 shades of gray, or just B&W. Then you could just decide
that was more important: grayscale or heap.

** OUT OF THE BOX WIRELESS DATA CAPTURE?!? **

Alan Walker <grafxguy@thegrid.net> is looking for a 'out of the box'
Newton solution that:

    "... will allow us to capture field notes and data
     regarding repairs that can be sent wirelessly to
     the main service office on the next block.
     Ideally, we want to download the data into an
     Excel spreadsheet and develop a master repair
     call log."

** NEWTON AS A POST-CAD PLOTTING UTILITY **

Felipe Nieto <74052.335@compuserve.com> would like to generate a plot
file (ASCII text) in his desktop CAD program and then be able to download
this file to his MP2K.  The MP2K would then plot the file, and then
either over a cable or via IrDA print the file to a plotter.

** SHORT-CUT KEYS FOR MP2000 **

John Baughman <john@meganetwork.com> noted on the "NewtonTalk" list
server that he would be very interested in a utility that would let an
end-user installs or create custom shortcut keys for use with the
keyboard.

** MAPPING SOLUTION NEEDED **

Dr. Mark Ebell <ebell@pilot.msu.edu> finds it hard to believe that their
is no Newton equivalent to the Windows CE's MS Streets or Street Atlas
USA.  Even the Psion has a solution similar.  What Dr. Ebell really wants
is "street level detail for major cities with links to restaurants,
hotels, attractions, etc."


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  Need more Newton information?!?  NewtNews suggests you check out:
    + Newton Reference: <http://www.panix.com/~clay/newton/>
    + Always Newton Central: <http://newton.theonly.com>
    + NewtUser: <http://www.newtuser.com>
    + NewtWorld: <http://www.fw3.com/newtworld>
    + The Ultimate Newton: <http://shell.rmi.net/~rbruce/>
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  To much info in NewtNews for you?  Does all the Macintosh information
  make you want to puke?  Then maybe you should check out NewtNews-Savvy.
  For $20 you get 40 issues of just lean and mean Newton/PDA/Wireless
  information directly to your inbox of choice.  Send an email message
  with the subject containing 'NewtNews-Savvy' to <newtnews@pobox.com>
  and you'll get a sample issue and an order form.  Thanks for reading!
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Other Handheld Technology News
-------------------------------

[EDITOR: News collected via snail mail, major publications, USENET
newsgroups, email, and the WWW.  For more information about Farcast check
out: <http://www.farcast.com> and for more information about HeadsUp use:
<http://www.individual.com>.]

** PALMPILOT **

Brian Hall <brian_hall@markspace.com> notes the creation of a PageNow
PalmPilot project page that will track the status and features associated
with this recently announced product.  You can check it out at:
<http://www.markspace.com/pagenow_pilot.html>.

Some other PalmPilot links of potential interest:

    - Paragon Software:
      <http://paragon.mda.de/pilot.htm>
    - PilotGear H.Q.: <http://www.pilotgear.com>

** WINDOWS CE **

Marleen Winer <mwiner@teletype.com> notes that Byte (Aug97) has an
article about TeleType GPS on page 105, and a picture of the product
running on Windows CE on page 107.  Marleen also noted that TeleType GPS
will be hosted at the Hitachi booth at this Fall'97 Las Vegas Comdex. You
can learn more via: <http://www.teletype.com/gps>.

John Cox examines "Microsoft thinks thin: Windows-based Terminal
blueprint nears completion" on page 1 of Network World published on
11Aug97. The "Windows based Terminal" (WBT) documentation is according to
John based on Microsoft Windows CE 2.0 specifications.

LG Electronics has announced plans to incorporate an embedded wireless
modem built by Novatel Wireless into some of their next generation
Windows CE 2.0 devices. [Mark Moore, PC Week, 11Aug97, page 8]

Mark Moore notes the release of the new 8-MB Windows CE savvy Velo 1 by
the Philips Mobile Computing Group on page 46 of PC Week published on
11Aug97.

Hewlett-Packard has announced a US$100 price reduction in the United
States for their Windows CE savvy 320LX palmtop.  The new list price will
be US$599. [HeadsUp]

The Nikkei English News is reporting that Microsoft has plans to directly
attack Sharp's dominance in the Japanese palm-sized portable computers
market.  In the near future, expect to see more focus on Windows CE
devices, including more Japanese savvy software. [HeadsUp]

Some other Windows CE links of potential interest:

    - Free Lisp Interpreter for CE:
      <http://tigar.ucdmc.ucdavis.edu/pub/PocketLisp>
    - Windows CE Expense Tracker:
      <http://www.syware.com>
    - WindowsCE On-Line: <http://www.winceonline.com>

** PSION **

Some Psion links of potential interest:

    - The Computer Zone:
      <http://www.lightning-ics.com/cz>
    - Grapher Version 1.10 :
      <http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Bay/6740/index.html>
    - PLAN5 version 5.0 (10Aug97):
      <http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/andyc>

** OTHER DEVICES **

Nikon Electronic Imaging <http://www.nikonusa.com/> has released a new
digital camera called the Coolpix 300 Personal Imaging Assistant.  The
'heart' of the new device is that it includes a touch-screen LCD that
lets you control the cameras functions and settings.  The unit can store
132 color images in 4-MBs of internal space, and can also hold audio notes
associated with selected images.  The expected retail price is US$699.

Mark Moore covers the recent news of E.Com International's new handheld
device called 'Discovery' on page 8 of the PC Week issue published on
11Aug97.  The device runs Windows 3.1/DOS 6.22, includes a built-in
Motorola DataTAC modem, and 480 x 320  pixel screen.  The list price is
expected to be under US$1200.

Bruce Fraser reviews three new digital cameras in an article entitled
"Digital Cameras Coming Into Focus" on page 11 of MacWeek published on
11Aug97. All of them got 4/5 stars: Canon PowerShot 350, Kodak Digital
Science DC120 Zoom, and Minolta Dimage V.

Byte (Sep97) notes on page 24 that the following companies either have
silicon product or are sampling new mini-displays -- Silscape, Kopin,
DisplayTech, and Planar.  Barry Nance <barry@bix.com> also has a detailed
review of Wyse Technology's WinTerm 2930 on page 115.  For more info:
<http://www.wyse.com>.  And there is a short mention and a picture of the
Fujitsu Personal Systems' Stylistic 1200 pen tablet PC on page 144 in the
"What's New - Hardware" section.

Mark Moore notes the release of the new Sharp OZ-600 family of organizers
(offering improved desktop sync & new PIM features with prices ranging
from US$99-200) on page 46 of PC Week published on 11Aug97.

Some 'Other Handheld' links of potential interest:

    - HotPocket Update: <http://hotpocket.com>
    - HandJive Magazine (Aug97):
      <http://www.phosphor.com/handjive>
    - PC110-FAQ: <http://home.pages.de/~starli/>


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
   This space for rent.  For more info: <newtnews@pobox.com>.  Thanks.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Other Tidbits of Information
----------------------------

** WIRELESS & MOBILE **

Some Wireless & Mobile articles of potential interest:

    - "Wireless Telecom Inc. (WTI) Eases Wireless
       Network Installs by Mark Moore, page 22.
    - "Packet Radio Services Expand Two-Way Paging --
       Review: Ardis, RAM add options, writing new
       chapter in replies from mobile works" by Matt
       Krammer, PC Week, 11Aug97, page 83
    - "Wireless LAN vendors seek to improve on IEEE
       standard" by Stephen Lawson, InfoWorld, 11Aug97,
       page 54
    - "Alcatel, Stanford Telecom in Wideband Wireless
       Deal" by Joanne Taaffe, InfoWorld, 11Aug97, page
       59
    - "Ionica Fixed Radio Access System Soars" by Bill
       Frezza, Network Computing, 15Aug97, page 39

** LAPTOPS **

Some Laptop articles of potential interest:

    - "Notebook Vendors Lock Horns in Price War: HP
       cuts prices on OmniBooks by as much as US$650" by
       Mark Moore, page 41
    - "Hi-Tech Achieved With Class -- Case Study:
       School district adopts wireless LAN to bring PCs
       to students" by Kristina Sullivan, PC Week,
       11Aug97, page 83
    - "Compaq to Slash NoteBook Prices" by NewsBriefs,
       InfoWorld, 11Aug97, page 3

** APPLE & MACINTOSH **

Apple has resigned TBWA Chiat/Day as their new advertising agency.
[HeadsUp]

According to Time Magazine it was Steve Jobs that sold 1.5 million shares
of Apple stock two months ago.  [HeadsUp]

Apple is still in Mac OS licensing 'hell' with Macintosh clone vendors.
[HeadsUp]

Apple has reported that they sold 1.2 million copies of Mac OS 8 in the
first two weeks of availability.  You can learn more from the Mac OS 8
WWW site at: <http://www.macos.apple.com/macos8/>. [HeadsUp]

Apple has granted Florida's MacCenter exclusive rights to sell software
and hardware to Florida's K-12 education institutions.  [HeadsUp]

Other tidbits:

    - Peter Lewis <peter@stairways.com.au> has
      released RumorMill 1.1 [NNTP Server] &
      StreamWatcher 1.0 [Open Transport debugging tool]
      via: <http://www.stairways.com/>.
    - Chuck Shotton <cshotton@biap.com> has released
      NetEvents 1.0.1 [a scriptable set of TCP/IP
      services] at: <http://www.biap.com/downloads/netevents.html>.
    - Visioneer's "Hot Summer Scanner Sale" is
      offering the PaperPort vx for Macintosh for as low
      as US$119.  Learn more at: <http://www.visioneer.com/macsale>.
    - You can upgrade to Timbuktu Pro 4.0 for Mac OS
      for only US$29.95 via: <http://www.farallon.com/upgradetb2.html>.
    - John Delacour <JD@EREMITA.DEMON.CO.UK> has
      updated his Cihui Chinese input software on the
      WWW at: <http://www.eremita.demon.co.uk/cihui.html>.

** INTERNET **

Sun Microsystems has signed a deal with NCR that will enable NCR to sell
Sun's Solaris OS on Intel based workstations.  [HeadsUp]

IBM, Oracle, and Sun Microsystems have reportedly turned over their
"Network Computer Reference Profile" standard to the Open Group.  This
Java-based networking computer standard will be renamed "Network Computer
Profile".  [HeadsUp]

** OTHER SITES WORTHY OF A POTENTIAL BROWSE **

    - Wireless Computing's The Wireless Surfboard
      [keyboard]: <http://www.cpgs.com/wireless>
    - .xls: <http://www.xls.com>
    - The Morino Institue: <http://netpreneur.org>
    - Catera [Generation X Cadillac]:
      <http://www.catera.com>
    - Dayna's NetCenter [LAN products]:
      <http://www.netcenter3.dayna.com>
    - ACI's 4D [relational database]:
      <http://www.acius.com>
    - WinDrivers.com: <http://www.windrivers.com>
    - Audio Highway's Listen Up Player:
      <http://www.audiohighway.com>
    - Northern Light [Search Engine]:
      <http://www.nlsearch.com>


What's Happening in Major Business/Technology Magazines?
--------------------------------------------------------

** FAST COMPANY - AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 1997 **

Fluke <http://www.fluke.com> builds network diagnosic handheld devices.
Their business has grown from $270 million in 1991 to US$430 million in
1996.  Part of their success is attributed to creating 'teams' made up of
individuals from engeering, marketing, and finance.  Hosting the teams
for 100 days in a 'war room' environments with mandates to 'innovate' new
markets or improve current technologies.

Some 'words of wisdom' sound in a Q&A blurb on page 62 with AirMedia's
"Conent Guy" Lou Weiss -- 1.) Sending too much content is as useless as
sending none.  2.) Deliver 20% of the data that tells you 80% of what you
need to know. 3.) Consider the relative value or time-sensitivity of the
information.

This issue is focused on 'branding' and examines the following companies
success in branding: Starbucks, L.L. Bean, and Sony's Playstation
'group'.  It is a series of great articles that could be very useful to
the folks at Newton, Inc.

Pointers to some noteable homepages:

    - John Patrick <http://www.ibm.com/patrick>
    - Andy Oram <http://www.ora.com/people/staff/andyo>
    - Jeffery Harrow <http://www.digital.com/rcfoc/Home.html>

** WIRED - SEPTEMBER 1997 **

Some interesting items in this months 'Fetish' column edited by Bob Parks
starting on page 61 include -- 1.) Brielle's (888.274.3553) translucent
roll-up calculator for US$15 -- 2.) JVC's (800.526.5308) surround sound
speakers called the JVC SX-PRO3 (two speakers that can trick you into
thinking sound is also coming from behind you) for US$799 -- 3.) Raylink
(508.470.9095) wireless Access Point for US$1495 and the Raylink PC Card
for US$500.

Short blurb on page 156 that notes the new Nextel <http://www.nextel.com>
offering to 'roam' for free using their new Motorola built PowerPhone
iP370.

** THE RED HERRING - SEPTEMBER 1997 **

This is a special issue.  It details "The Digital Universe" by
highlighting "The Top 100 Technology Companies in 1997."  Advanced RISC
Machines (ARM) was listed #1 in the Best Products category, #2 in the
Best Partner category, and #3 in "Best Overall".  More details on ARM
were published on page 60.  Dragon Systems was listed as #5 in the
"Bloodiest Edge" cataegory, with also more info listed about the company
on page 66.

** FORBES ASAP - 25AUG97 **

David Freedman has an article that examines the how deregulation has the
potential to enable Brooklyn Union Gas to make 'profit' starting on page
45.  The article includes a picture on page 52 of two handheld devices
and another picture of a field worker writing on a wireless slate device
from Motorola.

** TRACKING MAJOR HANDHELD ADS **

HP has been running their two-page and one-page ads for their Windows CE
savvy HP 320LX in the following magazines:

    - Fast Company, Aug/Sep97, pages 120-121
    - Wired, Sep97, page 33
    - Forbes ASAP, 25Aug97, page 14

Intelifone <http://www.intelidata.com> has an ad for their "Web" savvy
desktop phone on page 155 of Fast Company (Aug/Sep97).  Same ad also runs
on page 188 of Wired (Sep97).

Philips-Magnavox <http://www.velo1.com> has one of their "Run Windows
Anywhere" ad for the Velo handheldPC on page 191 of Fast Company
(Aug/Sep97).

There is a two-page Tobshiba Libretto ad starting on page 72 of Wired
(Sep97).  This ad has also been running in many of the 'custom' airline
magazines found in airplanes.

Hitachi <http://www.hitachi.com> continues to advertise for their SuperH
RISC engine processor using their "Digital Wallet Prototype Ad" on page
21 and their "Multi-media Wristwatch Prototype Ad" on page 23 of Red
Herring (Sep97).


Advertising Notes
-----------------

HexDump is now advertising for their new giftReminder and HexPaint
applications.

If you are interested in advertising in NewtNews please send email to:
<newtnews@pobox.com>.  NewtNews is freeware because of the advertisers
that support this effort, and we appreciate their support.

When you purchase products from NewtNews vendors please mention that you
heard about their product in NewtNews.


Product and Service Information
-------------------------------

* HexDump Development Inc. presents:
   - giftReminder: store gift ideas, gift histories, and price
     comparisons for only $19.95 +S&H.
   - HexPaint: the ultimate gray scale paint program priced at
     $38.95 +S&H.
Free demos of HexDump's software available at  <http://www.hexdump.com>.
HexDump backs all it's software with a 30 day money back guarantee.

* TeleType GPS - New v2.0 - now includes U.S. Interstate Highways data
overlay. GPS software provides plot of your position on moving maps while
you drive or fly. Overlay packages include cities and towns, Interstates,
and special Aviation overlay for pilots. Bundles include GPS receiver and
software.  Never get lost again.  Email: <TeleTypeGPS@teletype.com> or
WWW to: <http://www.teletype.com/gps/> for more information.

* CATAMOUNT SOFTWARE offers the following:
   - POCKETMONEY assists you in balancing your checking, savings,
       credit card and loan accounts. Export and import transactions
       to Quicken, MYM and other desktop based program.
   - NAMIGATOR gives rapid access to Names. I know, I have over 5000.
   - MPG helps you keep your vehicle records in order. Track fuel
       economy, record mileage for tax purposes, schedule repeating
       vehicle maintenance items for multiple vehicles.
   - MORGAN is the Newton Media ORGANizer. Track CDs, tapes, records
       books, laserdiscs, videos, and more...
For more information call 802-372-9512, email <products@catamount.com>, or
visit our web site <http://www.catamount.com>.

* MAR SOFTWARE offers the following fine products:
   + NEW EXECUTIVE NEWTON STAND Rated a Must Buy by Newton Info
     Magazine. This is an exquisitely crafted stand of contemporary
     design for your Newton. Made of hardwood and anodized aluminum.
     Supports portrait or landscape mode. Clear beech or mahogany
     finish. $49.95+S&H.
   + NEW BILLS TO PAY PRO 3.5.6 Rated 5 out of 5 by Gecko Magazine!
     Easily track bills & expenses; create budgets & set alarm reminders.
     Also works with Pocket Quicken or PocketMoney. $39.95+S&H
MAR Software: <info@marsoftware.com> or <http://www.marsoftware.com>.

* GET AMIGO NOW! Did you know you can order AMIGO the premier 8000+ word
English/Spanish Dictionary Reference Tool and Translation program for the
Newton over the World Wide Web at: <http://www.1stopsoft.com>?  AMIGO is
available for US$24.95 and it comes with a full year of upgrades. For
more information contact ACCSYS by email at: <rkaplan@well.com>

* GPS MAP and GPS MAP LITE -- GPS based navigation with real moving maps,
showing all details as familiar from paper based maps.  Features -- map
calculator, route planning, database, history track, and mission
recorder.  Import your own maps from your Mac or PC at any scale.
Connects to most GPS receiver's offering a NMEA183 interface.  For more
info/demo: <http://www.soaring.de/gps/GPS_Map.html> or <gerds@micronet.de>.

* Newt Development Environment: develop object-oriented applications in
NewtonScript on the Newton (shareware: $49.50; tools, examples, support).
* Newt's Cape: create Newton books with text, graphics, tables, links,
and forms from HTML (via web browsing or Notepad) (shareware: $38.50;
tools, examples, support). For details, software, and registration info:
<http://www.netaxs.com/~weyer/newton/releases.html> or <weyer@netaxs.com>

* SOLUTIONS FROM LANDWARE. All work in the Newton 2.0 OS.
  - PROCALC EX: Programmable calc. w/ SAN & RPN, includes: proCALC 12c.
  - QUICKNAMES PRO: Rapid access to names and much more.
  - X-PORT: The 2.0 connection utility. Send/receive notes, contacts...
  - KWIKMENU: the Newton dashboard, includes GestureLaunch Lite.
  - NEWTPAINT: "MacPaint" on your Newton, w/zoom-in and screen shot.
  - SYNC+: Dates to Schedule+ 1.0 or 7.0
LandWare, 201-347-0031, <sales@landware.com>, <http://www.landware.com>

* Frustrated by the amount of time required to input long notes?  Looking
for a faster method?  GESTURE MOSAIC is a hybrid keyboard/recognition
system which enables the rapid (30-40+wpm) pen-based entry of text.  Now
updated for OS2.0, you can use it to quickly input text anywhere in your
Newton. FREEWARE versions are available at: <http://www.amtelcom.com/Mosaic>
For more information contact: <amtelmit@aol.com> or call: 800-696-6724.

* ChessPad 2.0 turns the Newton into a digital chess book and a portable
chess set. It contains 28 fully-annotated games played by the greatest
players of all time, 100 brilliant winning combinations by Morphy, Tal,
Fischer, and Kasparov, and 100 chess problems.  ChessPad can also import
games in Portable Game Notation format. Only $39.95. Clear Lake Research
713.663.7513 <DavidL62@aol.com> <http://members.aol.com/clrsch/chesspad.html>

* THE HANDHELD COMPUTER ALMANAC -- The definitive guide to handheld
products and services, from organizers to ruggedized systems. 150 pages,
600 companies, 1300 products and services in 50+ categories, with more
than 300 Newton products. Only $24.95 + S&H from Creative Digital
Publishing Inc. 30-day money-back guarantee. email: <hhca@cdpubs.com>,
URL: <http://www.cdpubs.com>, voice: 415.621.4252, fax: 415.621.4922

* NEW SCOREPAD 3.0.1 -- Golf scorekeeping package for Newton 2.0. Easily
keeps scores and statistics - analyze and graph the results. Figure your
unofficial handicap. Automatically calculates nassaus and skins. Keep
notes about each round and course.  Available for US$50 from Software
Unboxed <http://www.unboxed.com> or directly from Sun Sabre (513.459.9330)
with 10% by mentioning NewtNews. <http:members.aol.com/sunsabre/ScorePad.html>

* MoreInfo 4.1 - This integrated contact manager seamlessly integrates
the built-in Names, Dates, Calls and Notes applications.  This latest
version adds even more useful features to this already essential product.
MP2K savvy. Voted Best Newton Software for 1997 - mobilis Magazine
Reader's Choice Award. From SilverWARE at $69.95+S&H.  For demos check
out: <http://www.silverware.com> - <info@silverware.com> - 508.521.5262

* STAND ALONE offers a variety of Newton applications for Newton 2.0:
   - PACKAGE POPUP: instant access to all your packages, launch
      with a tap, automatically thaw and re-freeze. $15.
   - SECURE-A-NEWT: Password protect folders in your NotePad, Names,
      and Extras Drawer. Protect your info from prying eyes. $20.
   - KEYMAN: Adds function keys, a multi-function calculator, and a
      new keyboard designed for one-fingered typing. $20.
   - NOTEMAN: Instant access to the NotePad from any package. $10.
   - BACKGAMMON: The classic board game, brought to Newton. $20.
   - SUPER SORTER: Fast, Usable list management, featuring fully
      expandable and customizable list creation and editing. $20
For information about any of these or other Stand Alone products,
contact us at: <info@standalone.com>, or (312) 262-5150. Also check
out our Web site at: <http://www.standalone.com/newton>.

* NEW! 9th Volume of the Totally Incomplete PDA CD-ROM for Newton! This
CD-ROM from AMUG CD, Inc. contains over 1450 packages, 618 megs, and a
Newt 2000 only area. Works on Mac or PC. 2.x & 1.x Packages can be
downloaded directly from the CD to your MessagePad. Maximize your
Newton experience! ONLY $29 + S/H. Call AMUG 602.497-2244, or email
<sales@amug.org> to order! AMUG CD web page at <http://cdrom.amug.org/>.

* BUSINESS PRODUCTIVITY PACKAGES FROM PELICANWARE
   All packages for Newton 2.0 or better OS - Upgrades also available.
 - QUICKFIGURE PRO 3.1: Spreadsheet application  $59.95
 - NEWTCASE 3.0: The Ultimate Utility Suite (for 2.0 OS only)  $49.95
 - NOTION 1.5: High Performance List Manager  $59.95
 - AVAILWORKS 3.0: Text, spreadsheets, drawing, and graphing $79.95.
All from PELICANWARE.  For more details email: <info@pelicanware.com>,
vox: 503-221-1148, fax: 503-221-8709, or <http://www.pelicanware.com>.


Edupage, 11Aug97 thru 17Aug97
-----------------------------

** THE CHINESE PC MARKET **

China has overtaken South Korea as the largest market for personal
computers in the Asia-Pacific region, according to a Dataquest report.
Legend, mainland China's largest producer of personal computers, sold
100,000 PCs in the second quarter of this year, and the president of Intel
in China recently predicted that within a few years China will be the that
company's third largest market after the U.S. and Japan. (Financial Times
12 Aug 97

** FREELANCERS LOSE TO PUBLISHERS OVER ELECTRONIC REPRODUCTION **

A federal judge in Manhattan has ruled against freelance journalists who
argued that publishers should not be allowed to reproduce their work on CD
ROMs or in electronic databases without their permission and without paying
them beyond what they were paid for the original material.  At issue was
whether or not electronic reproduction of that sort is essentially
equivalent to archival versions of print media on microfilm, which are a
publisher's right under the Copyright Act of 1976.  The decision will be
appealed.  (New York Times 14 Aug 97)

** SONY, PHILIPS, AND HP WANT TO DO IT THEIR OWN DVD-RAM WAY **

Sony, Philips, and Hewlett-Packard have decided not to support the
industry's proposed technical standard for reusable DVD-RAM disks that
allow users to copy digital computer disks or record TV programming
digitally.  A Sony spokesman claims that the companies have superior
technology that can store 3 billion bytes of information on a disk compared
with the 2.6-billion byte standard proposed by the rest of the industry.
Industry analyst Richard Doherty says that "the DVD-RAM market at present
is computers, but everyone knows the big reward coming in 18 months to two
years is the consumer video disk recorder."  (New York Times 14 Aug 97)

** NEC IS LATEST DVD MANUFACTURER TO DROP INDUSTRY "STANDARD" **

Japanese manufacturing company NEC is going to proceed with development of
its own next-generation high-capacity rewritable disks for digital video,
audio and computer data. With the announcement, NEC becomes the fourth
major company (with Sony, Philips and Hewlett-Packard) to abandon the
"industry standard" for such disks.  (Investor's Business Daily)

** NOKIA ADDS SUPPORT TO MOBILE PHONE STANDARDS **

Nokia, Europe's largest manufacturer of mobile phones, is joining rivals
Alcatel, Ericsson and Siemens in developing standardized GSM-based wireless
technology capable of handling very high-speed multimedia mail and
full-motion video. (Investor's Business Daily 15 Aug 97)

** THE FUTURE OF SOFTWARE DISTRIBUTION **

Microsoft and Marimba have agreed to adopt a standard for broadcasting
software updates over the Internet.  The standard, which makes use of the
"Open Software Description" format, is also endorsed by Netscape and Lotus.
(Wall Street Journal 15 Aug 97)

** DRUDGING UP CRITICISM **

Gossip columnist Matt Drudge, whose newsletter is distributed via America
Online and the World Wide Web, has been taking a drubbing for two recent
stories he -- one about President Clinton and another about White House
adviser Sidney Blumenthal. Blumenthal is considering a libel suit and the
New York Times has lamented editorially that Drudge's work is an example of
the kind of shoddy journalism encouraged by what it called
"www.anarchy.net."   And Newsweek investigative reporter Michael Isikoff
says that Drudge is "a menace to honest, responsible journalism.  He's
clearly willing to go with anything, whether he's got any legitimate
sourcing, anything approaching legitimate verification.  He doesn't conform
to any journalistic standard or convention that I'm aware of.  And to the
extent that he's read and people believe what they read, he's dangerous."
(New York Times 15 & 17 Aug 97)


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  Don't forget to check out the freeware-monthly-Acrobat-savvy-version of
  NewtNews called NewtNews Pro: <http://members.aol.com/nnpro/newton.html>.
  Newton evangelists are "empowered" to download this file and print
  several dozen copies for distribution to company cafeterias, user groups,
  dentist offices, local computer stores, libraries, etc. ... Just do it!
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  NEED A NEWTON PROGRAMMER? NewtNews has a list of over 48 Internet based
  Newton programmers who are interested in working on vertical or
  horizontal market solutions.  Please send email to: <newtnews@pobox.com>
  if you would like the list or would like to be added to the list.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


INNOVATION, 11Aug97
-------------------

** TRENDS: SPEEDING TECHNOLOGY, WEARY USERS **

Looking at the accelerating rate of technological change, Shane
Greenstein of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign thinks that
the biological metaphors for technology may have to be replaced by ones
associated with earthquakes and tectonic movements.  A biological
metaphor such as "product life cycle" suggests an orderly progression
that no longer does justice to the frantic pace of modern innovation.
"With only rare exceptions, only technologists brag about the speed with
which things change today.  Vendors no longer boast about it; most just
endure each new competitive episode and celebrate surviving another day.
Except for the most technical user (or the most competitive office
situation), the speed of change comes too rapidly for most users."
(Shane Greenstein, "The Biology of Technology,"  IEEE Micro Jul/Aug 97)
<http://www.computer.org>

** STRATEGIES: BEING REALLY DIFFERENT ... ALL ALONG THE LINE **

Management professors Ian MacMillan (Wharton) and Rita McGrath (Columbia)
say that the creative organizations are the ones that think about their
customers' entire experience with a product or service (which they call
the "consumption chain") and find ways to distinguish themselves from
competitors at each and every point in that chain.  How?  By methodically
asking who-what-where-when-why questions about every aspect of the
customer's use of the product or service.  Example?  Oral-B asked the
question, how does a customer know that it's time to get a new
toothbrush? -- and  then developed a patented blue dye for coloring the
center of the bristles;  the color fades when the toothbrush is no longer
effective. Similar questions led to the following differentiation
strategies:  CarMax and AutoNation "selling" cars by letting customers
create their own selection process;  Compaq targeting installation time
as a source of differentiation and giving the customer a poster and a
video; Nordstrom seeking differentiation with a "no questions asked"
returns policy (and even gained national publicity when one Nordstrom
store manager took back a set of tires even though the company does not
sell tires).  The trick is to take a long look at each and every single
point in the customer's experience -- from the time of selecting it to
the time of consuming or discarding it - and to brainstorm possible ways
of distinguishing yourself -- at that single point -- from your
competitors.  (Ian C. MacMillan & Rita Gunther McGrath, "Discovering New
Points of Differentiation,"  Harvard Business Review Jul/Aug 97)

** INNOVATIONS: ONCE MORE, WITH FEELING **

Computer-generated speech has gotten a bad rap for being mechanical- and
monotonous-sounding, but the creator of a software program called Affect
Editor hopes to change all that.  When a user selects any of six emotions
-- annoyed, cordial, disdainful, distraught, impatient or plaintive --
the software assigns one of 21 integers to each of numerous acoustical
qualities representing aspects of pitch, voice quality, timing,
articulation and loudness.  For instance, plaintive speech is soft,
low-pitched and slurred, with minimal variability and many pauses.
Annoyed speech is characterized as loud, high-pitched, quick, with
irregular rhythms, inflections and precise enunciation.  The software is
on display at the Boston Computer Museum.  (Technology Review Aug/Sep 97)
<http://web.mit.edu/techreview/>

** MORE INFO ON INNOVATION **

Innovation is published weekly, with individual subscriptions available
at $15 a year. Topics are organized under the following headers: TRENDS,
STRATEGIES, and INNOVATIONS.  For a six-week free trial subscription to
Innovation, please send an email message to
<innovation-trial@newsscan.com> and in the subject line type the word:
'subscribe'.  You can also use the trial registration form on their Web
site at: <http://www.newsscan.com>.  For more info, send email to:
<gehl@newsscan.com> or <douglas@newsscan.com>


Administrivia
-------------

NewtNews Copyright 1994-97 Steve Holden.  All rights reserved.
Non-profit, non-commercial publications may reprint articles if full
credit is given.  Others please contact me.  NewtNews doesn't guarantee
accuracy of articles.  NewtNews does not express or imply any
endorsement of any businesses participating in this publication.  My
personal comments may be included in articles NewtNews reports by
highlighting them as -- [SDH: Comments].  Official NewtNews Editor's
comments are highlighted as -- [Editor: Comments].  Publication,
product, and company names may be registered trademarks of their
companies.  All trademarks used in this publication are for
informational purposes only and to the benefit of the trademark owner,
with no intention of infringing on that trademark.

Send contributions and comments to Steve Holden, Editor and Publisher
at: <newtnews@pobox.com>.  Other important NewtNews players include:

    - Reviews Editor: Bob Torres <btorres@io.com>
    - Newton Book: Mark Heringer <HeringerMR@pobox.com>
    - FTP site & email list admin: Bob Torres <btorres@io.com>

      SUBSCRIPTIONS: email <majordomo@tristero.io.com> with
                     'subscribe newt_news' as the body of your
                     message (no quotes)
        UNSUBSCRIBE: email <majordomo@tristero.io.com> with
                     'unsubscribe newt_news'
                WWW: <http://www.ridgecrest.ca.us/NewtNews/>
                FTP: <ftp://ftp.io.com/pub/usr/btorres/NewtNews>
                     <ftp://members.aol.com/NewtNews1>
                     <ftp://ftp.amug.org/pub/newton/news/newt-news>
                     <ftp://ftp.scamedia.com.au/pub/newtnews/>
   NEWTON REFERENCE: <http://www.panix.com/~clay/newton/>
 NEWTON CLASSIFIEDS: <http://pobox.com/~bnet/newton>

This edition of NewtNews was written with the help of: ushering for the
very popular (and pretty good) musical called 'Rent' at La Jolla
Playhouse's Ahmanson Theatre; dinner with Mike, Claire, and Ethan at San
Diego Brewing Company; and finally getting 'our' Boomerang pinball
machine fixed and now operational.

Disclaimer:  I am doing this on my own time, and on my own hardware
***********  and software not the government's or my employer's.
