NewtNews-151-09Sep97
====================

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:

 + 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>

 + 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>

 + 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 Information
 4. New and Updated Newton Technology
 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. Advertising Notes
11. Product and Service Information
12. Edupage, 01Sep97 thru 07Sep97
13. INNOVATION, 11Aug97
14. Administrivia


Top News
--------

** JOBS BRINGS "MAC HELL" TO NEWTON WORLD?!? **

John Markoff wrote a piece for the New York Times (NYT) on 04Sep97 that
suggested that at a recent Apple Board Meeting those in attendance
decided to not let Newton, Inc. spin-off.  There were quotes apparently
from Jobs circulating on 08Sep97 saying the 'bring the Newton back to
Apple rumor was true.'

The Markoff article claims that Apple has plans to refocus all Newton
technology on building eMate like devices and other 'networking computer'
devices.  At the heart of this decision is Steve Jobs, who is apparently
making most of the decisions at Apple.  Jobs who has a history of not
being very positive of the Newton -- he called it a "scribble pad" at
Apple World Wide Developer Conference (WWDC) in May 1997 -- has made
Newton developers, 3rd Party vendors, Newton evangelists, and Newton
users very nervous.  Newton, Inc. is surprisingly silent on this news
considering their quick response to the MP2100 rumors.

For more information check out:

    - <http://www.sjmercury.com/news/breaking/docs/081055.htm>
    - <http://www.nytimes.com/library/cyber/week/090697apple.html>
    - <http://www.rinzai.com/ni/>
    - <http://www.nando.net/newsroom/ntn/info/090697/info4_1481_noframes.html>
    - <http://www.austin360.com/tech/stories/09sept/06/apple6.htm>

[SDH: If Steve Jobs is going to do with the Newton what he has done to
the Macintosh in the last four weeks, then God help us.  I think that if
all this is 'true,' then you'll find Newton developers leaving the Newton
platform quicker than 'butter melting on a hot bun.'  Jobs has an agenda
which may be as big as his ego at this point.  No doubt his 'vision'
includes heavy lobbying from Oracle's "Network Computer" Ellison, and
could care less about the Newton community we have built here.]

** MICROSOFT OUTLOOK SOLUTION IN THE WORKS **

Gareth Robertson <gnt@netnitco.net> notes that PDA Direct's webpage
<http://www.pdadirect.com> is advertising for a new software product
called 'Outlink' that is suppose to allow Newton devices to sync with
Microsoft's Outlook.  The software is suppose to be due by the end of
Sep'97.  For more information call: 800.279.4732.

[EDITOR: If anyone has any more information about Outlink please let
me know.  Who are the developers?  Where is my beta?!?  Thanks!]

** DIGITAL HAS A NEW STRONG ARM **

A widely circulated press release from Digital has announced the recent
news of a new 200-MHz StrongARM processor.  The PR also includes quotes
from Newton, Inc. COO Sandy Bennett saying the chip makes "Java" easier
to deploy."  This chip is also going to be used in future Windows CE v2.0
savvy devices.  For more information check out:
<http://www.infoworld.com/cgi-bin/displayStory.pl?97092.wstrong.htm>.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  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>
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  QuickFigure Pro 3.1 - Spreadsheet for Newton 2.0 or better operating
  systems. Supports 255 x9999 cell worksheets, landscape mode, direct
  cell entry, worksheet linking, delayed recalc, and over 70 functions.
  Includes QF Exchange for Import/Export with Excel from Mac or Windows.
  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
------------------------

** I'D BE REMISS ... **

I'd be extremely remiss if I didn't dedicate this issue to the memory of
another wonderful human being -- Mother Teresa.  She gave selfishly for
others all of her life, and her passing last week also saddened my heart.
I am the first to admit the similarities between Princess Diana and
Mother Teresa are difficult to pin down, but each of them 'cared' for
others in a very positive and supportive way.  And in the end, both will
create legacies that will insure others will continue in their very noble
efforts.

** SORRY IF MY BEING HUMAN BOTHERED YOU **

Several folks were pretty 'pissed off' that I dedicated last weeks issue
to Princess Diana's memory of 'caring'.  It is a sad state of affairs.
The dedication to Mother Teresa probably won't make them happy either.

All I can say is I am human.  I have feelings.  I don't often pour my
feelings out in NewtNews.  But I am dedicated to NewtNews, and I do my
best to provide excellent technical content, exciting information, and
hopefully I help you map out what is going on not only in the handheld
world but in the technology world in general.  Opinions matter.
Directions matter.  Focus matters.  Life stuff matters.

NewtNews is a passion for me.  If it wasn't, it would not have ever
gotten past its' first year.  I love doing it.  In that love, comes some
feelings every once in a while.  If this offends you, then exit from the
list.  Flaming me does nothing but get me all bent out of shape and
stressful.  Both are something that I definitely can have less of in my
life.

** BACK TO OUR REGULARLY SCHEDULED PROGRAM **

Enough already ... here is the latest issue of NewtNews.  Packed with a
ton of good information, helpful pointers, and some tidbits that should
make your technology journey a little less bumpy.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  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/>
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  DON'T TOUCH THAT SCREEN --
  until you protect it with The BARRIER Screen Protector!
    *  Clearly Superior Protection
    *  Chemical, Abrasion and Thermal resistant
    *  Given 9 out of 10 by Newton 2000 Underground
  For more info: <http://www.roadrunnertracks.com> or call: 760-431-5483.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


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

** CHANCE TO WIN A MP120 **.

Steve Webber <steve@webber.com> reports that WebSmart Internet Services
is running a sweepstakes program and two of the Grand Prizes are MP120s.
There are other prizes available and the drawing will occur on 10Dec97.
For more information check out: <http://www.websmart.net>.

** SINE OF THE TIMES NEWS **

Sine of the Times reports that their CardMEDIA solution is 100%
compatibility with HyperNewt from Foundation Systems.  You can check out
version 1.1 of CardMEDIA via: <http://www.sineware.com/products>.

Sine of the Times is also reportedly in the process of beta testing
a bibliography program called 'CiteCard' for Newton 2.x devices.

** HYPERNEWT NEWS **

Newton Intelligence <http://www.rinzai.com/ni/> had HyperNewt author Adam
Tow from Foundation Systems on their weekly Sunday 5 p.m. EDT chage on
31Aug97.  You can learn more about HyperNewt via: <http://www.tow.com>.

Adam also posted an interesting article to comp.sys.newton.misc recently
outlining "HyperNewt Heap Issues -- 9/4/97".  You should be able to track
down the article using: <http://www.hotbot.com>.

** NS BASIC NEWS **

NS BASIC has reportedly recently experienced some DNS problems with their
ISP.  These problems have been fixed, but if there is a problem in the
future please send email to: George Henne <ghenne@ibm.net>.

George also notes that there is a new comparison piece posted on the NS
BASIC WWW site at: <http://www.nsbasic.com/comparison.html> that outlines
the similarities and differences between NS BASIC and the Newton Tool Kit
(NTK).

** NEWTON RELATED JOB **

Gary Greco <garyr@powermedia.com> reports the PowerMedia has some
openings for those in the Oregon state area experienced with packaging
and shipping software titles.  Other positions could also open up in the
near future.  Send Gary email if you are interested.

** NEWTON USER GROUP NEWS **

Kenneth Wong <kenneth@cybpage.com> reports that the 2nd Singapore Newton
Users Group was held on 07Sep97 at McDonald's Serene Centre.  Send
Kenneth email if you'd like to join the group.

The Stanford Newton User Group meets at 7 pm on the second and fourth
Tuesday of each month; so the next two meetings are 09Sep97 and 23Sep97.
The meetings are held in Palo Alto at the Printer's Inc Bookstore Cafe at
310 California Ave.  For more info: <http://pobox.com/~snug/>.

** UPDATE ON WHAT IS HAPPENING AT NEWTONTALK **

Sean O'Shaughnessey <seanos@earthlink.net> reports that NewtonTalk now
has 682 subscribers (as of this writing).  The discussions have been
numerous and very helpful.  A very short list of some of the topics
includes:

    - Using a Newton modem on a business line
    - Infrared printing speeds
    - Connection problems to some ISPs
    - German version of MP2K
    - Battery questions
    - Help with sync
    - Using money management software
    - Eclipses (and other Easter Eggs)
    - Printers
    - Travel tips
    - PT100
    - NetHopper
    - Acoustic modems
    - HyperNewt
    - Various programming questions
    - Keyboard volume

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

** MACWAY NEWTON MENTIONS **

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

    - Interesting story entitled "Macs in Schools Are
      Still the Best" has a Newton mention
    - News of Apple's 20th Anniversary Macintosh and
      eMate receiving I.D. Magazine's Annual Design
      Review awards
    - Specials for PageNOW! for Newton:
      <http://www.markspace.com/>
    - News of Concept Kitchen new WriteRight Screen
      Enhancements. <http://www.conceptkitchen.com>
    - DataStorm Information Systems is conducting an
      Internet survey that is giving away MP120 for
      participating. <http://www.dsis.com>
    - RoadRunner Tracks has announced that their new
      Barrier Screen Protector for Newton and eMate are
      being used on Digital Scout's football scouting
      software for the Newton.  For more info:
      <http://www.roadrunnertracks.com> or
      <http://www.digitalscout.com>

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

** SOME OTHER NEWTON MENTIONS **

Ken Laws' <LAWS@ai.sri.com> THE COMPUTISTS' COMMUNIQUE (TCC) published on
28Aug97 (Vol. 7, No. 56) has a section entitled "Portable Computing" with
several Newton mentions.  For more information about this great
newsletter check out: <http://www.computists.com>.

The issue TidBITS#395/01-Sep-97 <http://www.tidbits.com/> had a quick
Newton mention in an article entitled "Two Heads Better than One?"
written by Adam Engst.

And the following sites were recently updated:

    - Newton 2000 Underground:
      <http://www.skyport.com/nelson/newton/main.shtml>
    - "Top Signs that you are a Newton PowerUser":
      <http://home.hkstar.com/~hknug/poweruser.htm>
    - Newton Central: <http://newton.theonly.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 Technology
---------------------------------

[EDITOR: Sorry for the quick and dirty listing of all the new Newton
software and hardware in this format.  I ran out of my allotted time.]

** MORE NEWTON SAMPLE CODE POSTED **

David Fedor <fedor@newton.apple.com> reports that Newton, Inc.'s WWW site
has some new updated Developer Technical Support (DTS) sample code.  You
can learn more via: <http://www.newton-inc.com/dev/>.

** NEW HARDWARE **

Concept Kitchen <http://www.conceptkitchen.com> has announced the release
of their next generation of WriteRight Screen Enhancements all currently
shipping Newton related devices.

HI-RIZER <http://www.hi-rizer.com/whatsnew.htm> has redesigned their MP2K
car mount.  The new retail price is US$125.  HI-RIZER is also offering
between 08Sep97 and 08Sep97 a host of special deals on their "Xpress for
MP 110-2000" and "HI-RIZER desktop for MP2K" products.  Check out their
WWW for more details.

Ken Alan at Farallon noted on comp.sys.newton.misc that the following
currently shipping Farallon PC Card (#PN595-TP) will support Newton OS
2.1 with Newton Internet Enabler 2.0 when it ships.

** NEW SOFTWARE **

K2 <http://www.skyscape.com/k2> has released their 1997 version of the
King James Bible (KJV97) for Newton that uses K2's ART interface engine.
The list price is US$44.95.

Sine of the Times <http://www.sineware.com/products/CardMedia> is now
shipping their "collection manager" for the Newton called CardMedia 1.0
-- track CDs, books, and inventory items using this Names extension.  The
intro price is US$10 and a 30-day demo is available.

There is a new version of the Macintosh to Newton 'calendar sync' utility
called ClockWork.  Version 10.b2 can be found at on the Centsoft WWW site
at: <http://www.centsoft.com/ClockWork/Files.html>.

SDH EngSoft has released a freeware Date summary utility called
"DateView" v1.0. For more info:
<http://www.netaxs.com/~weyer/newton/newtpkgs.htm#apps>.

Deep Focus Designs <http://www.deepfocus.com/> is now shipping their
alarm utility called Roosta.

Foundation Systems <http://www.tow.com> is now shipping their
'hierarchical filing system' called HyperNewt 2.0.

SilverWARE <http://www.silverware.com> has announced MoreInfo 5.0 for the
Newton MessagePad.  The new version of the 'popular' contact manager and
scheduling application includes a host of new features by is still
seamlessly integrated with the built-in Newton applications.  The
software should be shipping on 08Sep97 and will retail for under
US$85.00.  Check their WWW site for upgrade information and other offers.

Serg Koren's VisualNewt Software <http://www.VisualNewt.com/> has
announced new versions of: Newt's Paper v0.6 [USENET newsreader]; Newt's
Battery 1.1 [free battery and power status utility]; and Newt's Weather
08/31/97-1 [weather monitoring solution via Internet connections]

JRAd consulting has announced the creation of a 'Transcriptionist
Template Archive' via: <http://jrad.seagull.net/tsTemplates.html>.

Toad Hollow Software <http://www.pobox.com/~toadhollow/> has released the
entire National Football League game schedule via a freeware Dates
utility called "NFL '97".

Richard  Li <clli@dover.cityu.edu.hk> has posted version 1.1 of his
PkgPopper utility via: <http://www.ee.cityu.edu.hk/~clli/pkgpopper.html>.

Scrawl Software <http://www.scrawlsoft.com> is now offering a beta of
PT100 (V0.995b) their premiere NIE savvy Telnet tool and VT100 emulator.

Lars Immisch <lars@ibp.de> has released a new version of SonyMeeting
(Sony VCR programming utility) that now supports Philips VCRs.  You might
expect a name change soon.  Download via:
<http://pobox.com/~immisch/sonymeeting.html>.

DMP Systems <http://www.netacc.net/~dmpsyst> has released Sound To Soup
v1.01 -- a program that will enable you transform a NotePad recording
into a soup and have that sound available for the Newton OS to use in any
place that you can select sounds.  The software posted as 45-day
demoware, and carries a US$10 shareware fee.

Steve Weintraut <stevenw9@aol.com> has released version 2.8 of Zachary's
Wheel -- a "Wheel of Fortune" style game for Newtons.  For more
information: <http://members.aol.com/stevenw9/index.html>.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
   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.]

** MP2K IS TOP INTERNET HANDHELD **

Ronald Steyer <Ronald.Steyer@Uni-Mainz.DE> notes the German magazine
"Internet Professional" published in Sep97 looks at what it takes to be
Internet savvy using: Psion, PalmPilot, Casio HPC, Nokia 900, and Newton
MP2K.  The latter -- the MP2K -- was awarded an Editor's "unreserved
recommendation" as the best possible connection device.  The runner up
was the Nokia 9000.

** SEAMLESS WIRELESS NEWTON IN BENETT'S DREAMS **

Cynthia Bournellis examines "Free Of Apple, Newton Plots Its Future" in
the 25Aug97 edition of Electronic News.  The article notes a 'vision' of
Newton, Inc.'s COO Sandy Benett of a future 'convertible' MessagePad that
includes a retractable cell phone similar in size to the Motorola StarTac
running Newton technology.

** NEWTON SCORES WELL IN REVIEW FOR SELF EMPLOYED PROFESSIONALS **

Michael Koldner has a 'huge' one page review of the MessagePad 2000 on
page 62 of Self Employed Professional published Sep/Oct'97.  The article
is entitled "Newton MessagePad 2000:  Good things (other than chocolate)
come in small packages.  The unit gets a ton of great things said about
it, and is award 5 starts our of 5 stars -- "Overall, the Newton
MessagePad 2000 lives up to its promise to simplify your life and bring
power to the palm of your hand."

** BYTE HANDHELD PRS MAKE IT TO THE NEWS LISTSERVERS **

As previously mentioned in past issues of NewtNews -- Byte Magazine
published on 01Aug97 has a host of 'handheld' related articled including
a: Lab Report judging best overall hardware and Lab rating results. The
main article is written by Michelle Campanale and is entitled "Hand-Helds
Get Serious: These tiny computers offer robust performance, surprising
functionality, and true portability." The Newton mentions are less than
stellar, and in many ways pretty negative. The focus of the article is
mostly on comparing the many Windows CE devices against each other.

** NEWTON STILL PLAYING MAJOR ROLE IN TRAVEL ARTICLE **

NewtNews readers Christian Dreyer <cdreyer@magnet.ch> and Kee Hinckley
<azgul@utopia.usweb.com> both note that the Wall Street Journal has a
Newton mention in an article written by Joan Indiana Rigdon entitled "A
Lesson in Dodging Runaway Bales of Hay".  The writer of this 'travel'
journal article is using the MP2K to type and turn in articles. Some of
the comments about Newton travel woes are pretty important.  For more
info check out: <http://engaged.well.com/nEngaged/mPane.cgi?c=WSJ7&t=161>
or <http://interactive.wsj.com/edition/resources/documents/gv.htm>.

** NEWTON ON POINTCAST **

Several NewtNews readers including Michael Eisenman
<MEisenman@symantec.com> noted a Newton mention in "Technology Gives
Vacations a Modern Edge" posted to PointCast <http://www.pointcast.com>
in the CNN Interactive & Sci-Tech section.  Others like, Steve Sande
<ssande@msp.psco.com> also noted that Newton, Inc. has also been
purchasing 'ad space' on PointCast running their 'Replace Your Laptop'
ads.

** SOME OTHER WEB SITES WITH NEWTON MENTIONS **

    - Olaf Coenen <coenen@informatik.uni-koeln.de>
      notes that MSNBC has a 'positive' Newton review
      at: <http://www.msnbc.com/news/104587.asp>.
    - The Sunday (24Aug97) color comic strip "The
      Norm" <http://www.thenorm.com> has a 'MP100
      Newton' like mention.

** 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@rogercoleman.demon.co.uk>

If you have similar tidbits for this column, please drop me a line!
<newton@rogercoleman.demon.co.uk>. Please include details of the Newton
model and OS that you are using.

** STORE SECRET NOTES IN OWNER INFO **

>From Lee Golden <WLeeGolden@aol.com>:

    Newton 2.0 Only.

    I store a lot of confidential text items in the
    Notes portion of my Owner card. Things such as my
    registration numbers for all my software; some
    credit card numbers; passwords, etc. [I also wrote
    the word "secret" at the bottom of the list of
    Notes. You'll see why in a minute.]

    Because I keep this confidential info there, I use
    the PIN number for access to the Owner Info [check
    the 'use system password' box in Owner Info
    Prefs]. When I need information out of the Notes,
    I simply tap Assist, tap the pick list and click
    on Find secret. Assist opens the Find slip, with
    the word secret in it. Click Find and the PIN
    entry pad opens. Voila! Instant access to my
    "secret" Notes. Try it the old way, by clicking
    Extras, clicking Owner Info, entering your PIN,
    clicking your Owner Card, clicking the scroll bar,
    then clicking Notes, and you'll see why my way is
    much faster. You also begin to experience the true
    effect of Assist.

** EASY FOLLOW-UP MEETINGS IN DATES **

>From Richard Maguire Braine <brainer@rmbphoto.netkonect.co.uk>:

    Newton 2.0 Only.

    [NewtNews-148-12Aug97 & NewtNews-149-19Aug97
    reported] -- "Russell Sheinkopf
    <russells@pacificrim.net> would like a utility
    that would 'elegantly' allow for follow-up
    appointment scheduling.  Russell would like a way
    to make a copy of an appointment icon.  Then,
    after placing the icon copy in the clipboard, you
    would simply find any available appointment time
    and drag the icon to its new location. Slick."

    This function is effectively built into Dates:
    simply drag the meeting or event to the side of
    the screen and go to the date for the new meeting.
    Drag the clipboard item to the time of day at
    which the new meeting is to be set. To maintain
    the original meeting in your Dates you can double
    tap the clipboard item and drag it back to the
    original time BEFORE going to the new date, thus
    leaving the meeting in the clipboard for the
    creation of further meetings.

** 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@rogercoleman.demon.co.uk>.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  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>.

** SEVERAL GOOD SUGGESTIONS **

Peter Davson-Galle <P.DavsonGalle@utas.edu.au> is looking for several
solutions:

    - Newton to desktop connection that enables direct
      'document' editing.
    - tool to do footnotes in NewtWorks
    - heap tool that realizes that only a 'soft reset'
      will cure any problems and offer to reset when
      this 'event' occurs.

For specific information send Peter email.

** HEBREW FONTS?!? **

Alan Wiener <ajwiener@mindspring.com> is looking for Hebrew fonts for the
Newton.  Send him email with a pointer if you have one.

** MINI-KEYBOARD COVER?!? **

Mark Ebell <ebell@pilot.msu.edu> thinks that a MP2K cover that is
actually a mini-keyboard that plugs into the 'hidden serial port' slit
would be an outstanding Newton accessory.

** NEWTON TO/FROM PALMPILOT LINK **

Jonathan Cardozo <cardozo@roguewave.com> thinks an enterprising Newton
developer should team with an equally 'awesome' PalmPilot developer and
build a set of utilities that would enable Newton to/from PalmPilot sync
and data exchange.

** PRINTING TO A CITIZEN II PRINTER?!? **

Brent Deverman <deverman@pilot.msu.edu> is looking for a print driver
that would let his MP2K print to a Citizen II Printer.

** KEEP HEAP USAGE TO A MINIMUM **

Jason Kulas <JKULAS@BCBSCT.COM> would like to 'evangelize' to all Newton
developers to keep the use of heap to a minimum.  While functionality,
GUI, algorithms, etc. ... are very important, Jason thinks that
conserving heap should be a #1 priority.  Jason also thinks that
developers should publicly state what their heap usage and requirements
are in any documentation they provide with their product.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  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 **

Andy Feibus <amf@mindspring.com> has a major Information Week Labs report
called "A Desktop In Your Palm" starting on page 65 of Information Week
published on 25Aug97.  The article looks at all the pluses and minuses
surrounding the PalmPilot. InformationWeek Online v3.0 has a pointer to
more information about an IW Labs report on the PalmPilot handheld
computer.  You can learn more via: <http://techweb.cmp.com/iw/645/45olplm.htm>.

Some other PalmPilot links of potential interest:

    - SoftMagic's HOG v1.0 [a helpdesk application]:
      <http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/2049>
    - Chronos v0.57:
      <http://www.lon.hookup.net/~aball/>
    - Concept Kitchen's Hipster case:
      <http://www.conceptkitchen.com>
    - Netscape Communicator Conduit:
      <http://www.pilotgear.com>
    - Yeechang Lee's "Reviews of the 3Com PalmPilot":
      <http://www.columbia.edu/~ylee/pilot-reviews.html>
    - PalmPilot Desktop 2.1 Upgrade:
      <http://www.usr.com/palm/custsupp/readme21.html>

** WINDOWS CE **

Philips has reported posted a 'performance accelerator' to their WWW site
stating that it improves speed on the Velo by 15%.

Dan Holoski <dholoski@ix.netcom.com> posted a recent article to the
USENET newsgroup comp.os.ms-windows.ce that might be of potential
interest.  It was entitled "My week with my Velo1," and you should be
able to track it down using: <http://www.hotbot.com>.

There is a rumor on the Internet that NEC has plans to drop the price of
their current Windows CE handhelds to US$199 without a cradle and US$299
with a cradle.

Andre Kvitka <andre_kvitka@infoworld.com> has a 'Product Review' of "HP's
320LX more usable, but size is still an obstacle" on page 110 of
InfoWorld published on 25Aug97.  In the end, Andre writes -- " ... the
320LX is best suited for simple Web browsing and for staying in touch
with the office via fax or email.  Users wishing to be more productive
still need to schlep along a notebook."

Some other Windows CE links of potential interest:

    - mnCE magazine for users of Windows CE:
      <http://www.pmn.co.uk/pmnce/>
    - Edwin M. Black Consulting:
      <http://www.sanctum.com/surfers/edzpage/edzpage4.htm>
    - Philips VELO 1 FAQ: <http://www.kensai.com/velo>
    - WinCE 2.0 news via @Computerworld:
      <http://cwlive.cw.com:8080/home/online9697.nsf/All/970902microsoft>
    - WinCE Infocom interpreter [FrotzCE10.zip]:
      <ftp://ftp.gmd.de/if-archive/infocom/interpreters/frotz/>
    - WinCE On-Line: <http://www.winceonline.com>
    - Visual CE [database and forms builder]:
      <http://www.syware.com>
    - Windows CE IRC Conference logs:
      <http://www.ntplx.net/~smakofs/chatlog.htm>

** PSION **

Michael Caton at PC Week Labs has an indepth review of the Psion Series 5
handheld on page 54 of PC Week published on 25Aug97.  The article is
entitled "Quite a Handful from Psion: Series 5 packs plenty into PDA;
easier to use than CE devices" and includes a picture which among other
things highlights the full size keyboard.

Some Psion links of potential interest:

    - PSIIDB online:
      <http://www.psion.priv.at/psion/psiidb.htm>
    - EDD [Delivery Date Calculator]:
      <http://www.cix.co.uk/~narnia/bsge/psion.htm>
    - PsiTrain 1.07 Released:
      <http://www.boink.demon.co.uk/psion/>
    - Time Code Calculator v1.0:
      <http://www.emer.sgi.ch/tccalc.html>

** OTHER DEVICES **

Franklin <http://www.franklin.com> has a host of new Bookman 'plugin
cards' for their "Bookman Sidekick Palmtop" organizer products.  These
plugins work with different Bookman specific products: dictionary,
thesaurus, encyclopedia, spelling, language translation, Quicken, PIM,
diet, nutrition, cookbook, wine guide, movie reviews, etc ...  Franklin
also has a line of Rolodex savvy PIMs (pricing between US$9.95-49.95.
However, their most interesting new product is REX PC Companion -- Type
II PC Card that can plug into a laptop's PC Card slot and sync to
Sidekick 98, Microsoft Schedule+ & Outlook, Act!, and Lotus Organizer.
The card weights 1.4 ounces and has a built-in screen giving the user
access to: calendar, contacts ('cardfiles'), to-do lists, memos, and
alarms.

There is a Libretto WWW site <http://libretto.basicink.com> that has
details about a listserver that is devoted to everything Libretto.

Precision Guesswork's POCKETWatch [a network monitoring/analysis tool]
for the HP200LX has been posted to the following WWW site:
<http://www.guesswork.com/pocket.html>.

The Phoenix Group has a new handheld called the "Nightingale," and you
can get more information about the unit via: <http://www.ivpgi.com>.

There is suppose to be a new 'Chinese and Japanese' handwriting solution
available with more information supposedly at:
<http://www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Bay/6697>.  In related news Nigel
Ballard <nigel@joejava.com> has also posted new 'PDA entry methods' in is
'Word' section on: <http://www.joejava.com>.

Douglas <krone@nwu.edu> reports the availability of IBM PC110s via the
following URL: <http://www.dynamism.com/pc110.html>.

Julie Strietelmeier <julies@iquest.net> has announced the creation of a
"The Gadgeteer web pages" via:
<http://www.geocities.com/ResearchTriangle/9327>.

Information Week (01Sep97) awarded EOrganizer its "Web Site of the Week"
award on page 10.  This Web based PIM includes email based reminders.
For more information check out: <http://www.eorganizer.com>.

Pentax <http://www.pentax.com> has a new U$700 digital camera called the
EI-C900 that comes with an "LCD docking station" expected to be released
in Oct'97. [Kelly Ryer, MacWeek, 25Aug97, page 9]


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  Back-up your Newton to a desktop Mac through your Ethernet Network
  without having to switch to Localtalk. Upload Newton packages and print
  to Appletalk network printers too. Farallon offers four Newton-to-
  Ethernet solutions, including EtherWave, the daisy-chainable technology
  that connects up to 7 devices to one Ethernet port. For more info visit:
  <http://www.farallon.com/markets/solutions/newtsolutions.html>.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

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


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

** WIRELESS & MOBILE **

Tegic Communications <http://www.tegic.com> has recently announced a new
text input technology they are calling "T9" that would be ideal of
deployment on future cellular phones, handhelds, and two-way pagers.  The
first major player in the mobile comms market to license 'T9' has been
announced as Samsung.

Associated Press on 05Sep97 reported that Motorola is working on a new
cellular phone that is Internet ready.  The 'phone' will be equiped with
a external viewfinder called a "CyberDisplay" that will able to display a
"a full page of e-mail or a full Web page."

Some Wireless & Mobile articles of potential interest:

    - "Ardis Launches Two-Way Pagers" by John Spooner,
       PC Week, 01Sep97, page 51 [Includes a picture of
       Research In Motion's US$500 Inter@ctive Messenger]
    - "New Book Nails Wireless Network Technology" by
       Sara Humphry, PC Week, 01Sep97, page 122 [ISBN#
       0-13-839051-7]
    - "Clueless About Wireless" by R.J.T., Information
       Week, 01Sep97, page 12
    - "Vendors air combination Web browser and phone:
       Alcatel, Nortel, and Samsung ready $500 Webphone,
       an alternative to desktop PCs" by Ellen Messmer,
       Network World, 01Sep97, page 10
    - "Much ado about 802.11: The long awaited
       standard for wireless LANs may be nothing to shout
       about after all" by Michelle Rae McLean, LAN
       Times, 18Aug97, page 59

** LAPTOPS **

Power Computing <http://www.powercc.com> is suppose to launch in the near
future their new line of Intel based laptops and desktop systems.

Andre Kvitka <andre_kvitka@infoworld.com>  has a 'Product Review' of the
"Libretto 50CT good for executives on the go" on page 112.  PROS:
"Beautiful screen; full set of standard features; compact, light design."
CONS: "Keyboard too small for touch typing; mouse buttons awkwardly
positioned; expensive."

Gael Core <gcores@aol.com> has an article entitled "Lightening the laptop
support load: Managers wonder how to connect handheld computers" on page
45 of LAN Times published on 18Aug97.  There are no Newton mentions but
the article sites a study by International Data Corporation that labels
handhelds into three groups: 'PC Companions' -- clamshell designs with
keyboards price between US$400-800; 'personal companions' pen-based open
faced devices priced between US$250-$400; and PDAs priced at US$600 and
up (the MessagePad falls in this category).   The article also devotes a
lot of space to the premise that the current 'rapid growth' in the
handheld market is because of Windows CE.

Some Laptop articles of potential interest:

     - "Nimantics rolls out 2.65-lbs. subnotebook," PC
       Week, 'News Digest,' 25Aug97, page 48
    - "Puma Eases the Pain of Too Many PIMs: But so
       far, IntelliSync software is limited to
       synchronizing Organizer 97, Outlook 97 data" by
       Michael Caton, PC Week, 25Aug97, page 54
    - "Notebook CPU: Intel Power Play" by Lisa Digarlo
       & John Spooner, PC Week, 01Sep97, page 1

** APPLE & MACINTOSH **

CakeWalk <http://www.cakewalk.com> has announced a version 3.5 of their
cross-platfrom 'music software' solution called Metro v3.5 (Professional
MIDI Sequencing).  The software is designed to work "in tandem" with
Macromedia's DECK II software.

Claris <http://www.claris.com> has announced new versions of FileMaker
Pro (FMP) and Claris Home Page (CHP).  The software is expected to ship
in early Oct97.  The version numbers will v4.0 and v3.0 respectively.

St. Clair Software <http://www.stclairsw.com> has released version 2.7.6
of Default Folder -- a system extension that adds functionality to the
standard file dialog.

Farallon Communications <http://www.farallon.com/> is now shipping their
Netopia routers for Fractional T1 and T1 connections using Frame Relay,
PPP or Cisco-HDLC encapsulation.

Glenn Howes <grhowes@xnet.com> is now shipping his MRJ 1.5 savvy version
of InCDius 1.0 beta 4 -- an excellent CD management utility.  You can
check it out at: <http://www.xnet.com/~grhowes/>.

NeoLogic Systems <http://www.neologic.com> is now shipping NeoAccess 5.1
-- a "cross-platform object database management system (ODBMS) now
includes a distributed object model which facilitates the construction of
single user systems that draw data from multiple databases."

Terry Morse Software <http://www.terrymorse.com/> is now shipping
version 2.0b7 of Myrmidon -- a Web authoring tool for the Mac OS.

ASCENT SOLUTIONS' PKZIP for Macintosh <http://www.asizip.com> is now
shipping.  This new shareware solution will compress and decompress
ZIP files.

** INTERNET/OTHER **

International Data Corporation (IDC) reports that in 1996 there were over
32 million new email users world wide.  What email software did they use
when they started? -- 26% IBM/Lotus, 17% Netscape, 14% Microsoft, 9%
QUALCOMM, 4% Software.com, 3% HP, and 20% Others. [Information Week,
25Aug97, page 14]

Forbes published on 08Sep97 has a great article devoted to
'cypher-libertarians' starting on page 172 and devotes the cover to this
issue with a digital picture of Sameer Parekh (C2Net) with a bold yellow
title of "This guy wants to overthrow the government."  The actual
article is written by Josh McHugh and is under the banner of 'Technology:
Cryptography.'

Nicholas Petreley <nicholas_petreley@infoworld.com> has some nice things
to say about his experiences using a Navio Enhanced TV device in his
column "Down To The Wire" published in InfoWorld (01Sep97) on page 108.

** OTHER SITES WORTHY OF A POTENTIAL BROWSE **

    - Home PC's "Search Party: 25 Tips to Help You
      Track Down Anything on the Web"
      <http://www.homepc.com>
    - VEMail: <http://www.imagemind.com>
    - Adaptec's EZ CD-Creator Pro:
      <http://www.adaptec.com>
    - SoundForge XP: <http://www.sonicfoundry.com>
    - Star Trek for Windows 95:
      <http://www.siue.edu/~amartig/startrek.html>


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

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
-------------------------------

* 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>.

* HEXDUMP INTRODUCES -- HexPaint for 2.1 OS 16 gray scale paint
application.  Filters include invert, rotate and flip. Icon editor allows
custom icons. Plug-in architecture along with the free Plug-In SDK allows
for custom tools. HexPaint includes the Paint Transfer application for
Mac conductivity. US$38.95+S&H. Demo available at <http://hexdump.com>.
HexDump backs all its 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.


Edupage, 01Sep97 thru 07Sep97
-----------------------------

** "DEEP BLUE" GETS DEEPER **

The IBM RS/6000 SP computer "Deep Blue" -- widely known for its chess
victory over world chess champion Garry Kasparov -- has received hardware
and software enhancements expected to make that product line 58% faster.
Much of the speed increase is due to the latest version of IBM's 604e
Power PC microprocessor.  (New York Times 1 Sep 97)

** PC FIXX SEEKS TO FRANCHISE PC REPAIR **

A small Seattle firm called PC Fixx is hoping to franchise the computer
repair business, offering Nordstrom-style service with McDonald's-style
convenience.  The company, which is currently seeking investors, plans to
acquire computer repair businesses around the country and convert them to
PC Fixx franchises.  Using a network of repair depots and service vans
linked to a telecommunications center, PC Fixx could offer repairs in a
matter of hours rather than days.  A study by Dataquest estimates that
the U.S. PC repair market will grow at 21% a year to nearly $1.9 billion
in 2001. (Tampa Tribune 1 Sep 97)

** NEXT GENERATION OF SOFTWARE WILL BE NONPROPRIETARY, SAYS ELLISON **

Oracle CEO Larry Ellison says the age of domination by one software
company's technical standards is over:  "The next generation of software
will not, cannot, be based on proprietary technology that belongs to one
company.  We're living in the dawn of the information age, not the dawn
of the Microsoft Age or the dawn of the Age of Redmond.  The next
generation of computing, network computing, will not be dominated by any
one company or any one person.  The age in which we live can't be
controlled by a single human being.  Nation-states resent it, individuals
resent it."  (Upside Sep 97)

** IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY MAY COME ... BUT THEY WON'T PAY **

A recent study by Forrester Research says the future of the Web
definitely does not lie in the subscription-based model.  Even online
gaming, which was touted as the exception to the rule, has fallen far
short of expectations, and a Forrester analyst says the findings are
"another nail in the coffin for subscription services."  The study
estimates the number of paying subscribers to Internet gaming services,
such as the Total Entertainment Network, at around 600,000.  That number
is expected to double by 2001, a growth rate too slow to sustain the
industry.  "We've watched their membership lists for six to eight months,
and we see them growing by hundreds, not by the thousands they need to
make this a viable business." Forrester predicts that gaming sites, like
everyone else, increasingly will rely on advertising rather than
membership fees for their revenue stream, reaching an 80/20 ratio by
2001.  (CIO 1 Sep 97)

** CYBER THREATS OF CONCERN TO PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION **

The President's Commission on Critical Infrastructure Protection says
that federal spending on research and development of defenses against
"physical and cyber threats" needs to be "jump-started" by raising those
expenditures (currently at $250 million a year) to $500 million in 1999
and $100 million each succeeding year until they reach $1 billion in
2004. (Washington Post 6 Sep 97)

** MICROSOFT'S SIMONYI ON JAVA -- "IT'S THE MONKEES ALL OVER AGAIN" **

Microsoft applications creator Charles Simonyi says Sun Microsystems'
Java language falls in the same category as Lisp, Smalltalk, Ada and all
the other "revolutionary" languages that claim to boost programmer
productivity: "It's the Monkees.  They had a few hits and then
disappeared.  Java will be the same.  It will be totally forgotten.
Microsoft is the Beatles." Simonyi says Sun's claims to have solved the
problem of programming component software are suspect:  "These problems
have not even been solved at Microsoft, in one company.  How could anyone
solve it across the Net?" (Forbes ASAP 25 Aug 97)


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

** TRENDS: WHERE WILL THE JOBS (REALLY) BE IN THE 21ST CENTURY? **

MIT economics professor Paul Krugman doesn't believe all those
predictions by pundits who say that the jobs of the future will be in
high technology areas.  "Historically, the opposite has happened:  job
growth tends to be greatest in the areas that new technology affects the
least."  Krugman points out that in the Labor Department's list of
occupations with the largest job growth, the top five categories are
cashiers, janitors and cleaners, salespeople, waiters and waitresses, and
nurses -- i.e., jobs having face-to-face contact with the consumer or
"dealing in a hands-on way with the unpredictable messiness of the
physical world."  So the typical worker of the 21st century "will be
doing precisely the kinds of thing that you can't do over the Internet."
(Paul Krugman, "What's Ahead For Working Men And Women," New York Times
31 Aug 97)

** STRATEGIES: SOFTWARE DESIGN -- NATURE'S WAY **

Pattie Maes, who heads the Software Agents Group at MIT, believes in
doing "applications-motivated" or "applications-driven" basic research,
and tackles research problems only when there is a real need for tackling
them. But hasn't Artificial Intelligence always been searching for the
most general solution, rather than solutions to specific small problems?
Maes says:  "Often we say that Artificial Intelligence has 'physics
envy.' AI researchers hope they'll find the general principles for x and
y.  For example, many people in AI hoped and still hope that there could
be a generic problem solver and other such very general principles that
would apply across all problem-solving domains."  Rejecting this magic
bullet approach, Maes and her group are approaching artificial
intelligence more in the way a biologist would, rather than a physicist.
"There are a lot of principles, not just five or three.  there are lots
of different mechanisms that are all useful and interacting, just like
what you would find in an organism or an ecosystem.  For example,
research into animal behavior shows us that the behavior of an animal is
the result of many simple components interacting -- a huge bag of tricks,
so to speak -- rather than the result of any generalized complex
reasoning and representation modules." (Interview with Pattie Maes,
"Humanizing The Global Computer," IEEE Internet Computing Jul/Aug 97)

** INNOVATIONS: QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY **

In the unending quest for an uncrackable code, scientists now are turning
to the world of quantum physics.  "The security of quantum cryptography
is based on the laws of nature," says a physicist at Los Alamos National
Laboratory.  "Unless there's something totally wrong with our
understanding of quantum mechanics, then these transmissions should be
utterly secure." The code would be sent through optical fibers in a
series of light pulses called photons.  Researchers like the idea of
quantum cryptography because it's immune to the "brute force" approach
that many crackers take -- using computers that crunch numbers day and
night until they come up with the correct decryption key.  Because the
normal rules that govern matter, motion and time become meaningless in
the quantum world, even the most powerful supercomputer couldn't crack a
quantum code if it crunched till the end of the universe.  And it's
spy-proof as well, because any attempt to intercept the transmission
would disrupt the signal, alerting the communicators to the presence of
an intruder.  (Tampa Tribune 25 Aug 97)  <http://www.tampatrib.com>

** 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>


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This edition of NewtNews was written with the help of: Street Scene 1997,
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