NewtNews-18Feb97-Supplement
===========================

by Steve Holden <newtnews@pobox.com>.  This is a supplement issue for the
weekly freeware newsletter that focuses on the Apple Newton and related
technologies.  The supplement is published as a reference guide during
times when NewtNews is not being published.  NewtNews Copyright 1994-97
Steve Holden.  All rights reserved.  See the Administrivia at end for
details and FAQ info.

This issue of NewtNews is sponsored in part by:

 + K2 Consultants - best Medical titles for Newton use ART engine - more
   info/order via <http://www.skyscape.com/k2> <http://www.1stopsoft.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>

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

 + PDA Panache is your single source for stylus solutions - ORDERS:
   800.270.7196 - FAX: 516.467.6329 - <http://www.pdapanache.com>

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

 + BILLS TO PAY PRO 3.5.4 - Easily Track Bills & Expenses - Supports
   German - <info@marsoftware.com> - <http://www.marsoftware.com>

 + 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>

 + TeleType GPS and moving map for the Newton - Never get lost again -
   <http://www.teletype.com/gps/> - <TeleTypeGPS@teletype.com>

 + INFORMED FILLER FOR NEWTON - Custom Electronic Forms Integrated With
   Your Desktop - Shana Corp - <info@shana.com> - <http://www.shana.com>

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

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


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

 1. From the Editor
 2. Pen Computing, Jan/Feb 1997
 3. REVIEW: MoreInfo 4.0
 4. Mobile Computing, February 1997
 5. REVIEW: powerPen Software's powerBack
 6. Web Pointers
 7. mobilis
 8. TAPPED.IN
 9. Wireless for the Corporate User
10. The PDA Connection
11. NewtNews Pro
12. Edupage, 10Feb97 thru 16Feb97
13. INNOVATION, 10Feb97
14. Handheld Systems
15. REVIEW: The Pocket Liberator Palmtop Shoulder Holster
16. Advertising Notes
17. Product and Service Information
18. REVIEW: QuickFigure Pro (QFP)
19. Guest Opinion
20. Administrivia


>From the Editor
---------------

** WELCOME **

Hello!  Welcome to the third NewtNews-Supplement. The goal of this
supplement is to provide NewtNews readers with good reference material
during a week when NewtNews is not being published.  This issue includes
some software and hardware reviews, and some guest opinions.  If you have
any questions, suggestions, or comments, please send them ASAP to Steve
Holden at: <newtnews@pobox.com>.  Thanks!

** NEXT ISSUE OF NEWTNEWS **

The next issue of NewtNews (issue #131) will be published on 25Feb97.
For a complete look at a calendar of publication dates please check out:
<http://www.ridgecrest.ca.us/NewtNews/NN_schedule.html>.

** GOOD COVERAGE OF MACWORLD JAPAN **

Chikara "RIKI" Taniuchi <riki-t@yk.rim.or.jp> reports that the Newton
Japan Project Team (NJPT) will be providing extensive coverage of this
years MacWorld Expo in Tokyo that starts on 18Feb97 via the following
URL: <http://www.cyborg.or.jp/~newtonj/>.  If you have specific questions
about the conference, send them to: <newtonj@cyborg.or.jp>.

** SOME QUESTIONS ANSWERED **

Thirty-two people replied back to the NewtNews listserver post called "A
Message from the Newton System Group."  Most of the responses were
positive and thankful for the forwarded information.  There were a host
of questions included in many of the posts, and this is an attempt to
answer them --

    + Why did it take so long to get a word processor?

    I know of several third party developers who
    wanted to work on a word processor and it wasn't
    until Newton 2.0 supported an external keyboard
    that it seemed to make sense to have a word
    processor.  With Apple bundling their word
    processor on the 'new' MessagePad and eMate it
    makes it much harder for a developer to compete.
    The reason that their isn't a 'NewtWorks' for
    Newton 2.0 is that the NewtWorks reportedly uses
    Newton 2.1 specific features and is not backward
    compatible.

    + Where can I order a MessagePad 2000?  Will
    developers be able to buy the MP2000 early?

    Most of the current Newton/PDA/Macintosh hardware
    vendors are taking orders for the MP2000.
    Developers should be able to buy the MP2000 via
    their developer program, but no announcement has
    been made yet that I know of.

    + Why doesn't Apple provide the E-mate to the
    general public?

    I think the main reason is that the eMate was
    'created' by the Education groups at Apple who
    'just used' the available Newton technology.  Since
    this market is very loyal it does wonders for
    Apple marketing in this arena to say "We made this
    just for you!"  I am pretty sure that folks in the
    Newton System Group will be working soon (or maybe
    they are already working on) a more publicly
    available eMate.

    + I have no plans to buy a MP2K because of the
    size.  Do you think Apple will make a smaller
    Newton soon?

    I hope so, but their are reportedly some in the
    Newton System Group management who are not at all
    interested in making a smaller Newton.

    + What is the change in physical size/weight
    between a MP130 and an MP2K?

    The dimensions for the MP130 are: 8 x 4 x 1.25
    inches and the MP2K is: 8.3 x 4.7 x 1.1 inches.
    The MP130 weighs 1.0 lbs and the MP2K weighs 1.4
    lbs.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  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 info:
  415-929-1002 <Info@ConceptKitchen.com> <http://www.ConceptKitchen.com>
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  AvailWorks 3.0 - New version adds a text layer with spell-check, find
  and replace, and support for multiple page documents.  AvailWorks
  integrates text processing, powerful tables, dynamic business charts
  and graphs, and drawing and page layout tools into one convenient package
  for the Newton.  From PelicanWare at $79.95+S&H.  For more info:
  <info@pelicanware.com>. To order 800.655.6398 or visit resellers.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Pen Computing, Jan/Feb 1997
---------------------------

** FEATURES & NEWS **

The cover of this issue has three key words: 'COLOR' for Sharp's new
Zaurus; "SPEED" for Philips Velo 1; and "Beauty" for Apple's eMate 300.

Dominic Giangrasso has a focus article on page 18 entitled "Pen Computing
in Utilities."

Vernon Haung examines how the MessagePad 2000 will influence the 'Newton
in Healthcare' on page 33.

Peter Glaskowsky has an article called "Under the hood: Windows CE CPUs
and Chipsets" on page 33.

Tammy Parker has a good review of all the vendors 'racing' to offer
wireless HPC connectivity on page 42.

Interested in the new "mini' small PC Card formats?  Check out page 84
for William Ott's detailed article about them.

Other good stuff: Pen News by John Wilmot on page 12; Handheld cases on
page 80; and Pen Development Kits on page 83.

** OPINIONS **

Excellent PDA and handheld opinions from:

    - C.H Blickenstorfer on "reflections on emerging trends"
    - Andrew Seybold on "HPCs in wireless comms
    - John Jerney on "open memo"
    - Tim Schmidt on "rumors, gossip, opinions"
    - Dominic Giangrasso on "right tools for the job"
    - Tammy Parker on "wireless in virtual workplace"
    - Gerald Fox on "info from Japan"

** REVIEWS **

Hardware reviews of: Philips Velo 1; Hitachi HPC, Sharp Copernicus; Apple
eMate 300; Sharp ZR-3000; Sharp Color Zaurus; IBM Sure Point; Axonix 8X
CD-ROM; and KidDraw Tablet.

Software reviews of: Pocket AutoMap for Windows CE; Pocket MS Internet
Explorer 1.1; Win2Go 1.0 (Newton/PC); Merlin/Wordsleuth (Newton);
FormLogic 2.0 (Newton); Pilot Forms 1.0; Pilot Light;
TimeReporter/Expense Reporter for Pilot; and Paseo for Magic Link.

** PLATFORM FOCUS **

    - Windows CE by Staff and C.H. Blickenstorfer
      on page 32 & 40
    - Newton by David MacNeil on page 50
    - Pilot by Scott Sbihli on page 60
    - Zaurus by Daniel Rasmus on page 64
    - Magic Cap by Dan Hanttula on page 74

** ON THE WEB **

    - <http://www.pencomputing.com>


REVIEW: MoreInfo 4.0
--------------------

** ORGANIZE YOUR NEWTON **

by Calvin Grier <76330.3425@compuserve.com>

For the last year I've been looking for a way to increase the utility of
my Newton MP120.  I've always thought the built-in applications were a
little weak, and their connectivity needed some work.  MoreInfo 4.0 by
SilverWARE is a contact management tool for NOS2.0 that enhances the
connectivity of Notes, Names, and Dates in ways that seem to blur the
lines between them - which in this case is good!

A demonstration version of MoreInfo (MI) can be downloaded from
<http://www.silverware.com>.  The archive files contain three packages to
install on the Newton in about 414K of memory - though the preferences
application can be deleted later to free 39K.  These packages may be
installed on external stores and expire thirty days after installation.
Registration costs $69.95 and includes full documentation.

In a nutshell these packages add Note stationary, new ways to view Names
information and a linking tool to tie together related entries.  At a
Glance is included to help manage time critical information by showing
calls, to-dos and meetings in a three tiered display.

"At a Glance" provides a display that's a natural for the Newton Backdrop
even adding a "quick access" Notes button to the Status Bar.  If you want
another backdrop, At a Glance can be assigned to the text below the dates
icon - making access very easy, but causing a soup search each time it is
re-opened.  Normally it updates displayed to-dos, calls, and meetings
once at the beginning of each day.  At a Glance is easier to use and more
flexible than the Day's Agenda display available from Dates and provides
a more unified format allowing you to create/examine any links.

Enhancements to Notes include a stationary form that links to a name card
automatically, and the addition of an MI button to the Status Bar.  Names
gets the MI button plus a new layout format so you can see logged events
associated with each entry.  This Logbook layout is a powerful visual
tool indispensable for contact management.  The MI button provides quick
access to enhanced Add Meeting, To-do and Names slips that are only two
taps away.

A word of caution: creating a name card from Notes or Dates works great,
but MI keeps the process open until you look at the card from Names. This
allows for quick entry of names that you want to finish with an
associated appointment or call later.

Also included are enhanced alarms and Cardlinks.  You can now "link"
cards together by adding associations between entries in the Names
application including their relationships to each other - relative,
associate, secretary, etc.  I found I did not use this feature much.

The ability to link any meeting, anniversary, call, to-do, name, or note
to any other makes for a more cohesive PDA.  MI provides the tools to
create and manage those links.  However, it didn't seem to have a way to
link to outbox items, which would have been very useful to me.

Logged items show up in the Calls window of At a Glance.  Even meetings
and to-dos end up there.  I found this a little confusing because tapping
it brought up a popup menu with the option to log the logged entry! It
would be nice to have an iconic way to distinguish logged items from
completed items.  Perhaps in future versions we'll see logged outbox
items as well.

When sending/receiving faxes or printing items from the Notepad, MI
apparently it thought I was changing the Owner Setup information, which
would have caused problems with the product registration key.  I don't
know how I could have caused this, but it is a minor annoyance none the
less.

MoreInfo provides the kind of contact management integration WinCE may
never have and it benefits from the Newton philosophy of application
design.  MI seems a bit pricey, but it practically doubles the usability
of the Newton.  Organization is everything - and this application excels
at it.


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

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  TeleType GPS is software for the Newton which displays your location
  while driving or flying. The software includes a moving map which shows
  you where you are in relation to cities and towns. It is controlled by
  the Garmin 30 TracPack, a powerful yet small Global Positioning System
  (GPS) antenna.  Never get lost again. Email: <TeleTypeGPS@teletype.com>
  or WWW to: <http://www.teletype.com/gps/> for more information.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Mobile Computing, February 1997
------------------------------

** ARTICLES OF INTEREST **

Scott Koegler has a "Quick Spin" of Casio's HPC called the Cassiopea on
page 24.  The unit gets good marks for: familiar Windows CE interface,
backlit screen, paging-ready, and hardware contrast controls.  On the
minus side, Scott was not impressed with the 'kludgy' serial connector.

Rich Malloy has a "QuickSpin" of the new Sharp ZR-3000 on page 26.  The
unit gets positive marks for: low price (US$349), simple desktop
connectivity, small size & weight, and easy-to-learn interface.  It gets
negative marks for: lack of PC Card slot, lack of backlighting, and
inconsistent interface.

The "Industry Insider" Tim Bajarin <tbajarin@mcimail.com> has a "PDA
Wars: Pilot vs. HPC" article on page 37.  Tim has used "Apple, Psion, and
Zaurus" but didn't ditch paper daytimers until after using the Pilot.
After starting to use some of the new HPCs, Tim is being torn between
which PDA to use.

Steve Handler has a review of the latest PCS news and wonders if the
year of 1997 will be the boom or bust for PCS on page 64.

** REVIEWS OF INTEREST **

Short reviews with pictures of the following products:

    - Nokia 239 Flip Phone on page 28
    - Mitsubishi's AMiTY SP tablet on page 31

** HANDHELD ADS **

    - Philips Velo 1 (HPC)
    - Casio's Cassiopeia A-11 (HPC)
    - Mobile Planet (Newton, Sharp, HP, and Psion)
    - Japan Palmtop Direct (IBM PC110)
      800.641.5996
    - Psion Series 3c & Siena

** ON THE WEB **

    - <http://www.mobilecomputing.com>


REVIEW: powerPen Software's powerBack
-------------------------------------

** EXCELLENT FREEWARE BACKDROP UTILTIY **

by Charles Pickrell <chaasman@misnet.com>

Have you ever grown tired of turning on your MessagePad and seeing the
Notes screen?  After only two weeks of MessagePad 130 ownership, I did
(what can I say, I'm impatient).  So I began browsing the Web looking for
a new program to use as my backdrop when I stumbled across the powerPen
Web site at: <http://www.eecs.wsu.edu/~schlimme/newton/index.shtml> and
their 'cool' freeware program powerBack.

powerBack is a completely customizable backdrop application that you,
most interestingly enough, create on the web.  On the powerBack page you
fill in an on-line form to create such neat things as a page title and
sub-title, you can choose to display pickers to change owners and
worksites.  You can also display the owners address, e-mail, zip code,
and voice and fax numbers.  Want to display a picture of the wife and
kids on there as well?  No problem, just type in an address on the web
where the picture can be found, and it will be scaled and converted to
black and white for you.  There is also a selection of about twenty-four
pre-made pictures to choose from if you don't have any of your own. You
may also choose to display the date and time that when clicked upon
displays either the dates application or the clock.

There are many different status displays as well: battery level, volume,
heap, internal store, PCMCIA store, even a line graph (like a heart
monitor) that moves up and down as memory conditions change.  One
extremely useful feature for owners of the MessagePad 120 is the
Automatic Memory Clear that continuously clears out the heap (your
MessagePad's RAM) to keep from having crashes (that happen ever so often
with large programs like Pocket Quicken) when memory is low. I have
friend who swear by this feature, they say it takes the frustration back
out of their 120's.  Now you can customize powerBack to display icons
from the Extras program to display on the bottom of the screen and
program up a button bar to let you quickly get to your most-used
programs.  There are even buttons for sleeping, backlighting and
rotating. When you are done, just click on the build my application
button at the bottom of the screen and in just a minute or two, voila
your custom program is done and ready for download!

They say the best things in life aren't always free, well in this case
they are.  powerPen's programmers have graciously chosen to not charge
for their work, so anyone can go and download this today!  I think it is
safe to say the powerBack is my most used Newton application.  I gives me
a continuous look at my battery level and lets me quickly start
applications without the need to open Extras at all.  Most importantly
though, I have a MessagePad that doesn't look like anyone else's.  I must
commend Jeff Schlimmer, programmer of powerBack on an extremely innovative
system that ties the web and Newton Toolkit together in a most unique
way.  The MessagePad is a very personal device and powerBack has made it
even more so.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
$ 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 & HANDHELD DIRECT - December96 Specials - Cool Stuff for your Newton!
   - Apple MessagePad 130 $689 (#22003) Free Win2Go Software with Purchase
   - Type II PCMCIA Flash Memory for all Apple MPs - Mfg Lifetime Guarantee
     4MB $128 (#41071)  8MB $224 (#41073)  10MB $274 (#41074)
   - Revelar Connection Utilities $53.95 - Windows (#10070) Mac OS (#10071)
   -ohesive PDA.  MI provides the tools to
create and manage those links.  However, it didn't seem to have a way to
link to outbox items, which would have been very useful to me.

Logged items show up in the Calls window of At a Glance.  Even meetings
and to-dos end up there.  I found this a little confusing because tapping
it brought up a popup menu with the option to log the logged entry! It
would be nice to have an iconic way to distinguish logged items from
completed items.  Perhaps in future versions we'll see logged outbox
items as well.

When sending/receiving faxes or printing items from the Notepad, MI
apparently it thought I was changing the Owner Setup information, which
would have caused problems with the product registration key.  I don't
know how I could have caused this, but it is a minor annoyance none the
less.

MoreInfo provides the kind of contact management integration WinCE may
never have and it benefits from the Newton philosophy of application
design.  MI seems a bit pricey, but it practically doubles the usability
of the Newton.  Organization is everything - and this application excels
at it.


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

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  TeleType GPS is software for the Newton which displays your location
  while driving or flying. The software includes a moving map which shows
  you where you are in relation to cities and towns. It is controlled by
  the Garmin 30 TracPack, a powerful yet small Global Positioning System
  (GPS) antenna.  Never get lost again. Email: <TeleTypeGPS@teletype.com>
  or WWW to: <http://www.teletype.com/gps/> for more information.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Mobile Computing, February 1997
------------------------------

** ARTICLES OF INTEREST **

Scott Koegler has a "Quick Spin" of Casio's HPC called the Cassiopea on
page 24.  The unit gets good marks for: familiar Windows CE interface,
backlit screen, paging-ready, and hardware contrast controls.  On the
minus side, Scott was not impressed with the 'kludgy' serial connector.

Rich Malloy has a "QuickSpin" of the new Sharp ZR-3000 on page 26.  The
unit gets positive marks for: low price (US$349), simple desktop
connectivity, small size & weight, and easy-to-learn interface.  It gets
negative marks for: lack of PC Card slot, lack of backlighting, and
inconsistent interface.

The "Industry Insider" Tim Bajarin <tbajarin@mcimail.com> has a "PDA
Wars: Pilot vs. HPC" article on page 37.  Tim has used "Apple, Psion, and
Zaurus" but didn't ditch paper daytimers until after using the Pilot.
After starting to use some of the new HPCs, Tim is being torn between
which PDA to use.

Steve Handler has a review of the latest PCS news and wonders if the
year of 1997 will be the boom or bust for PCS on page 64.

** REVIEWS OF INTEREST **

Short reviews with pictures of the following products:

    - Nokia 239 Flip Phone on page 28
    - Mitsubishi's AMiTY SP tablet on page 31

** HANDHELD ADS **

    - Philips Velo 1 (HPC)
    - Casio's Cassiopeia A-11 (HPC)
    - Mobile Planet (Newton, Sharp, HP, and Psion)
    - Japan Palmtop Direct (IBM PC110)
      800.641.5996
    - Psion Series 3c & Siena

** ON THE WEB **

    - <http://www.mobilecomputing.com>


REVIEW: powerPen Software's powerBack
-------------------------------------

** EXCELLENT FREEWARE BACKDROP UTILTIY **

by Charles Pickrell <chaasman@misnet.com>

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


TAPPED.IN
---------

** VOL. 1 ISSUE 18 -- JANUARY 1997 **

INSIDE NSG: Q&A with Don Davis, Manager, Solutions Marketing Group in
Apple's NSG.  Don's main job is to "focus on Emerging Technologies"
(wireless, Internet, and modems) with an emphasis on Newton product
marketing, outbound marketing, and handling marketing issues with 3rd
party developers.

MARKETING FRONT: Q&A with Dave Russell, Manager of Product Marketing.
Dave answers questions about upcoming 'themes' for the MP2K and the eMate
300.  Dave also addresses 3rd party opportunities with these new units,
and that Apple plans to grow the Newton market.

VENDOR SPLENDOR1: Revelar Software -- the developer of RCU 2.2 for Newton
2.0 lets a Newton user to connect their Newton to their desktop computer.
RCU also offers the opportunity for other 3rd party developers to utilize
their Application Definition Format (ADF) file for data synchronization.
For more information call: 800.669.5191, email: <info@revelar.com> or WWW
to: <http://www.revelar.com>.

VENDOR SPLENDOR2: True North -- the developer of Gulliver (a travel
utility), and their expense report application called Out of Pocket which
lets a business user quickly create a custom expensive reports.  For more
information call: 603) 472-7888, email: <info@northisup.com> or WWW to:
<http://www.northisup.com>.

TECHIE TIP: Bruce Thompson, Newton DTS Engineer, tackles the subject of
"Newton Internet Enabler (NIE) 1.1 has been released" in this issue.

TOP PROJECT: Tactile System's Construction Industry Development Board
(CIDB) pilot system has been built for the Singapore government.  This
system was a cooperative project between BYTE SYSTEMS
<bytesys@pacific.net.sg> and Fullmark Data <http://www.fullmark.com.sg>.
This 'digital' paperless Newton application communicates with desktop
database systems running ACI's 4th Dimension using software called
CONQUAS.  For more information about Tactile System check out:
<http://www.rmi.net/~rbruce/>.

NEWTON PROGRAMMING COURSES:
    - Newton 2.0 Essentials; 24-28Feb97; Palm Springs,
      CA; $1500; Registration: 909.793.5995
    - Newton 2.0 Communications; 17-21Mar97; Ann
      Arbor, MI; $1500; Registration: 313.439.3828

For more info about TAPPED.IN send an email to: <tapped.in@newton.apple.com>.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  K2 consultants, Inc. has the best Medical titles for Newton. Just out is
  Dr. Ferri's popular book for internists with special offers! Get the hit
  references like Lexi-Comp Drug Handbook, 5 Min. Clin Consult, Archimedes
  Programmable Calculator, etc.  KJV Bible, Ole spanish translator & more,
  all working with our reknowned ART engine. See ART make a big splash at
  <http://www.skyscape.com/k2> or <http://www.1stopsoft.com> for info/sales.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Wireless for the Corporate User
-------------------------------

** JANUARY 1997 - VOL.6/NO.1 **

This is the 3rd annual Buyer's Guide 1997 for Wireless for the Corporate
User.  This expanded issue has:

    - Tutorials on implementing wireless solutions
    - Directory of System Integrators and VARs
    - Industry associations and user groups
    - Calendar of 1997 industry events

Folks with interesting advertisements in this issue:

    - Melard Technologies <http://www.melard.com>
    - Aironet (800.AIRONET)
    - BreezeCom <http://www.breezecom.com>
    - OTC Telecom <http://ezylink.com>

The list price of this magazine is US$5, and is well worth every penny
considering the quality and the depth of the information provided within
this edition.  For more info, check out: <http://www.wirelessmag.com>.


The PDA Connection
------------------

** VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2 **

This issue includes the following articles:

    - "Hand-Held & PDA Forum: PDAs in the Utilities
       Vertical Markets" by Phil Allingham
    - "PDAs aren't just PDAs anymore" by Jon Covington
    - "PDA Statistics: PDAia Implements New Research
       Program" by Phil Allingham
    - "Beyond Obvious: Marketing Where No PDA Has Gone
       Before -- Libraries" by Al Lieter
    - "Wireless Without Middleware" by Steven Baer
    - "Creating My Ideal PDA" by Al Beeman
    - "John Sculley Corrects The Red Herring" by John
       Sculley

IDC has published the following U.S. hand-held companion shipments in the
thousands:

    = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
    Categories           1996  1997   2000
    = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
    PDA                   163   256    624
    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
    Personal
    Organizers             45   120    789
    - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
    High-end organizers/
    PC Companions         581   733   1282
    = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =
    Total                 789  1109   2696
    = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = =

For more information about 'The PDA Connection' or PDAia (PDA Industry
Association) send an email to: <info@pdaia.org>.


NewtNews Pro
------------

** FEBRUARY 1996 **

Dave Hina <nnpro@aol.com> reports that the latest issue of NewtNews Pro
is out and can be downloaded from:

    - <http://members.aol.com/nnpro/newton.html>

It will also be available shortly from the Newton forum on AOL (keyword
"Newton").  Read the newsletter either offline or online in "pdf" format
(online version requires Netscape Navigator and Adobe Acrobat version
3.0).  The ReadMe included with the download gives additional details
about the purpose and audience of NewtNews Pro.


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


Edupage, 10Feb97 thru 16Feb97
-----------------------------

** APPLE TAKES WRITE-OFF FOR ACQUISITION OF NEXT **

Apple Computer is taking a $322 million write-off as the result of its
$400 million acquisition of Next, Inc.  Analysts believe the write-off
suggests that the company will not return to profitability this fiscal
year.  The company also announced the resignation of Heidi Roizen, who
had joined Apple a year ago to work with third-party software developers
and encourage them to write software for the Macintosh operating system.
She said the decision was personal: "It all came to a point where I made
the decision that this is not what I wanted to do with my life right
now."  (New York Times 11 Feb 97)

** VISA PLANS SMART CARD TEST **

Visa International will launch a major trial of "electronic purse" cards
in Great Britain, similar to the one it sponsored at the Atlanta Olympics
last summer.  Unlike the Olympic cards, the ones issued for the Leeds
trial will be equipped with both public- and private-key encryption
technology for security against hackers and other criminals.  The cards
contain a microchip storage capacity that can be credited and debited
with a monetary value over a telephone line or at an ATM machine.  (Wall
Street Journal 10 Feb 97)

** ORACLE DEVICE CAN FINGER HACKERS **

Oracle is marketing a palm-sized biometric security device that compares
a user's finger prints to sets stored in a central database before
allowing access to a computer.  The $500 unit, made by Sunnyvale,
Calif.-based Identix, "is the ultimate in security, because it doesn't
depend on what you know, but what you are," says Identix's CEO.  The
device can discern a real finger from a wax model, or from a glove with
someone else's print on it, because a collection of sensors track blood
flow, blood pressure and other signals as part of the identification
process.  (Wall Street Journal 10 Feb 97)

** THE ONE MAILBOX **

Octel Communications, the world's largest provider of voice-messaging
systems, has a new product called Unified Messenger that consolidates all
voice-mail, e-mail and fax  messages in a single mailbox accessible by
phone or computer.  The system, which works in concert with Microsoft's
Exchange e-mail system, enables workers to call up a list of voice and
e-mail messages on a computer screen, and play the voice messages back
through the PC's speakers.  Mobile workers can dial into the
voice-message system and retrieve e-mail messages that are read aloud in
a computer-generated voice. "There are definitely people who are
e-mail-centric and people who are voice-mail-centric," says Octel's CEO.
"Usually, sales and marketing runs on voice mail, while the rest of the
company uses e-mail.  Every single company I've come across has those
constituencies.  People need that gap bridged."  (Wall Street Journal 13
Feb 97)

** MICROSOFT TO OFFER RUSSIAN SPY PHOTOS **

Microsoft has contracted with North Carolina-based Aerial Images to
publish very high resolution (to one meter) photographs snapped by
Russian spy satellites.  The photos, which were all taken during the
1990s, are the first Russian-satellite-origin pictures to appear on the
Internet, says Aerial's VP.  The initial photos to appear on Microsoft's
Web site will show Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, Rome and
London.  The photos may be downloaded for a charge of $30 per square
kilometer, with the proceeds to be split between Aerial and the Russian
space agency.  The images are likely to be used by mapping services,
construction companies and developers, forestry workers and government
agencies, says Aerial.  (Wall Street Journal 13 Feb 97)

** APPLE SHINES UP PRODUCT LINE **

Apple is ready to announce the PowerBook 3400 computer it claims to be
"the fastest notebook computer in the world," along with new desktop
computers featuring higher performance and lower costs than current
models.  Saying that the company's objective "is to continue to dominate
the publishing area," executive vice president Marco Landi says the
company also will introduce a digital camera for personal publishing.  In
addition, Apple will begin marketing its Emate 300, which will sell to
schools in the U.S. for about $700.  (Financial Times 15 Feb 97)

** MAC CLONE SALES BOOST THE NUMBERS **

Sales of Apple computers slid to 5.4% in the fourth quarter of last year,
according to Dataquest Inc., but when Mac clone sales are added in, the
Macintosh market share rises to 7.2%.  About a third of the
Macintosh-type computers sold in the fourth quarter were non-Apple
machines, most of them going to corporate, rather than personal, users.
The corporate sales, not traditionally a strong market for Apple, boosted
the Macintosh share of the business market to 9.4% in December, up from
7.4% for most of last year. "What you see in the clone numbers is
potential:  that if Apple can just turn corner on all the bad publicity,
there are a lot of people in place to really grow this market," says a
Dataquest analyst.  (Wall Street Journal 14 Feb 97)

** VIRGIN NET **

Richard Branson, founder and head of Virgin Atlantic Airways, says the
airline plans to be the first to offer the Internet available via "Virgin
Net" at every seat, in every class, by year's end.  "Besides the things
you can now do on the Internet, there will be in-flight shopping, so that
your duty-free will be waiting for you when you arrive at your
destination. You can answer your e-mail, do research, and conduct all
sorts of business.  Of course, you can also get information about your
destination, make dinner and hotel reservations, book tours.  These are
things that you can do now, but may not have time for.  But on a long
flight, it could be a valuable service and provide fun."  (Forbes ASAP 24
Feb 97)


INNOVATION, 10Feb97
-------------------

** TRENDS: WEARABLE COMPUTERS WILL FUNCTION AS "SECOND BRAIN" **

The computer industry's huge strides in miniaturization are bringing us
ever closer to the day when computers will commonly be worn as clothing,
since "clothing is with us nearly all the time and thus seems like the
natural way to carry our computing devices."  MIT Media Lab researcher
Steve Mann uses a computer that has miniaturized into an otherwise normal
pair of eyeglasses; with the screen moved off the lap and up to the eyes,
he can simultaneously talk to someone and take notes without breaking eye
contact. Mann says that computer clothing will become a "visual memory
prosthetic" and perception enhancer.  "Clothing-based computing with
personal imaging will blur the boundaries between seeing and viewing and
between remembering and recording. Rather than narrowing our focus,
living within our own personal information domain will enlarge our scope
through shared visual memory that enables us to 'remember' something or
someone we have never seen."  (Steve Mann, "Wearable Computing:  A first
Step Toward Personal Imaging," Computer Feb 97)

** STRATEGIES: CHANGE AGENT, CHANGE THYSELF! **

Technological change implies cultural change, and "any new IT that
contains an idea about organizational change is an implied threat."  In
addition, information technology "contains change ideas packed in
vehicles that have only some of the conditions necessary for change."
The most seductive error is to regard technology as an externally applied
"magic bullet" that can solve all organizational problems.  But it is
"folly to approach such a complex, dynamic and chaotic process as
IT-enabled organizational transformation as a linear sequence of tasks
with defined roles and handoffs...  Everyone needs to be ready to do
whatever it takes.  Change is everyone's job...  In our view, at least
two team members should be designated as 'change agents' -- one IT
specialist and one nonspecialist. Further, the assignment should rotate
periodically, so that all team members can think through and practice
change management skills."  Why?  Because behavioral flexibility is a
critical factor in chaotic change processes. (M. Lynne Markus & Robert I.
Benjamin, "The Magic Bullet Theory In IT-Enabled Transformation,"  Sloan
Management Review Winter 97)

** INNOVATIONS: FREE SPEECH, IN A MANNER OF SPEAKING **

Swedish-based Gratistelefon offers its customers free phone calls
anywhere in Sweden, with one hitch -- both the caller and recipient must
listen to 10 seconds of advertising once every three minutes.  "After a
while you might get sort of annoyed by these interruptions, but I think
it's worth this little hassle for the savings you get," says one
satisfied customer.  "And the ads are only 10 seconds, so you're going to
listen to them.  It's not like you can do something else in that time."
The program is currently in a test phase, but Swedish advertisers are
enthusiastic about the possibilities, and the Gratistelefon technicians
are exploring ways to target phone call participants with different, but
simultaneous, ads touting merchandisers close to each caller's location.
(tele.com Jan 97)

** 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>


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  NEED A NEWTON PROGRAMMER? NewtNews has a list of over 40 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.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


Handheld Systems
----------------

** ISSUE 5.1 -- JAN/FEB 1997 **

Regular articles:

    - "Handheld News" by Steve Mann
    - "Hey Rocky! Watch Me Pull A Rabbit Outa My Hat"
       (Magic Cap) by Steve Mann
    - "Windows CE: The Rollout" by Steve Mann
    - "Handheld Mobility: Taking It to the Desktop" by
       Andrew Seybold
    - "IR Reflections" by Pat Megowan
    - "Profile: Wright Strategies, Inc." by Scott
       Sbihli
    - "NS Basic Corner: NetNews" (USENET reader) by
       John Schettino
    - "MoBettDrag" (Newton) by Mark Zeren

Reviews and Previews:

    - "Advanced Data Representation" by Robert Koekoek

Getting Started:

    - "Newton 2.1 Audio" by John Schettino
    - "Pilot Serial Programming" by Iain Barclay
    - "The Newton 2.1 Grayscale APIs" by Ray
       Rischpater

Features:

    - "GEOS Bugbashing" by Marcus Groeber
    - "UNIX and Pilots" by Kevin Flynn
    - "Newton Drag and Drop" by John Schettino
    - "Simon's Scriptoruim" (Magic Cap) by Brenda
       Holloway
    - "Windows CE: History & Design" by Bob O'Hara

Handheld Systems is also holding a conference and expo for handheld
system development the 24-26Apr97 at the San Francisco Airport Hilton.
You can get more information by sending an email to: <hhsc@cdpubs.com>.

For a complementary sample of Handheld Systems, go to Creative Digital's
Web page at: <http://www.cdpubs.com> fill out a request for a sample
issue, and email it to: <hhsj@cdpubs.com>.


$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  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 52 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!
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$

$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$
  If you are too cheap to pay $20 for weekly Newton/PDA/Wireless info,
  then check out the freeware-monthly-Acrobat-savvy-version of NewtNews
  called NewtNews Pro at: <http://members.aol.com/nnpro/newton.html>.
$-----------$------------$------------$------------$-----------$-----------$


REVIEW: The Pocket Liberator Palmtop Shoulder Holster
-----------------------------------------------------

** VERY GOOD NEWTON HOLSTER CASE **

by J. Leko <leko@ix.netcom.com>

Newton is a great, and versatile device but it suffers from one major
drawback - its form factor is too large to conveniently fit in a pocket.
This can be a problem since the only way it can truly be integrated into
one's life is to have it close by at all times.  For most people, this
means either carrying a bag, or case with Newton nestled inside (and the
speaker volume cranked up), or relegating one hand to the task.

Enter an innovative solution from OPUS 63 Design Labs, Inc., the Pocket
Liberator shoulder holster.  This has got to be one of the coolest ways
around to tote your MessagePad!  The Pocket Liberator provides a novel
approach to everyday Newton storage/luggage problems by providing a
sturdy convenient location in which to rest your silicon friend.  Well
designed and crafted, we found our test model to be quite comfortable
too.  The system is composed of two parts, the holster unit itself
available in four colors (i.e. orange, silver, blue, or black), and two
styles, and the shoulder harness which will accept up to two cases.

The PL-HA harness which comes in silver is necessary for each shoulder
holster, looping through its "eyes" to make the attachment. Its straps
are actually four long pieces of velcro independently riveted to a
leather centerpiece. This arrangement leaves the straps free to rotate,
and allows them to move with you for comfort.  First time holster wearers
will require a bit of patience as it takes a while for you to properly
adjust.  Once you are accustomed to it though, wearing it feels quite
natural.

Our tests were conducted on the PL-PTH model holster, a basic leather
pocket stitched to a board of synthetic material.  The pocket into which
the Newton is placed conveniently orients the speaker upward when
holstered allowing you to lower the volume.  To ensure that your PDA
remains in place during your daily activities, an elasticized strap
secures it.  We'd be happier if this strap were about a half-inch longer,
but have found that it stretches with use, and will hold adequately.
Lateral shock is countered through the use of elastic in one of the
pocket's sides - a very nice touch.  On this model, a pen holder is
placed on the pocket's front edge, and a nylon web on its top.  We found
the later a useful feature for attaching a beeper, or clipping an extra
pen.  On back, there is an elasticized fabric belt loop which helps to
stabilize the unit.  It adjusts with a series of snaps to conform to
people of various heights, and for shorties like us there is a sewn-in
belt loop.

With its non-intrusive style and comfort, we feel that this is the
perfect solution for on-the-go professionals who need both hands.  Need
to carry your PCMCIA cards with you too?  We recommend you get the
PL-PTH-D which has an additional compartment attached on top.  For even
more storage the system can be expanded by replacing the right underarm
support with the miscellaneous pouch holster.  There's even a cell phone
holster available. "But won't I look geeky?", you ask.  Actually we have
received several admiring comments from our co-workers, but all solutions
are easily concealed beneath a sportcoat.  Overall, we found the Pocket
Liberator shoulder holster system to be well thought-out, designed, and
constructed. A definite answer to your friends who complain that they
wouldn't want to amputate their hand by carrying a Newton.

For more information about the Pocket Liberator Palmtop Shoulder Holster
contact: OPUS 63 Design Labs, [V]: 718.706.6787, [F]: 718.706.7034,
[WWW]: <http://www.OPUS63.com>.


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

* MoreInfo 4.0 - This new version adds even more useful features to this
already essential product.  Version 4.0 now allows you to link together
any number of names, meetings, events, to dos, notes or calls all
through a single screen.  A powerful new "At a Glance" screen makes
managing your schedule effortless.  From SilverWARE at $69.95+S&H.  For
more info: <info@silverware.com> <http://www.silverware.com> 508.521.5262

* 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>

* 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>

* 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>

* 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! 7th Volume of the Totally Incomplete PDA CD-ROM for Newton! This
CD-ROM from AMUG CD, Inc. contains over 1800 packages, and 590 megs in
Mac and PC format. 2.0 & 1.x Packages can be downloaded directly from the
CD to your MessagePad. Maximize your Newton experience! $29 + S/H. Call
AMUG 602.497-2244, or email <sales@amug.org> to order! See our Newton CD
web page at <http://cdrom.amug.org/>.

* BUSINESS PRODUCTIVITY PACKAGES FROM PELICANWARE
   All packages for Newton 2.0 OS - Upgrades also available.
 - QUICKFIGURE PRO 3.0: Spreadsheet application  $59.95
 - NEWTCASE 3.0: The Ultimate Utility Suite  $49.95
 - NOTION 1.5: High Performance List Manager  $59.95
 - AVAILWORKS 2.0: 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>.

* 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 3000.
   - 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.
   - SILK makes your MP130 GLOW. Floating silk screen palette so
       the built-in buttons can be seen in the dark.
For more information call 802-863-5256, email <info@catamount.com>, or
visit our web site <http://www.catamount.com>.

* NEW BILLS TO PAY PRO 3.5 Rated 4.5 by Gecko Magazine! Now available
in German! For NOS 2.0. Includes support for stationery, enhanced
overview, and new printing options! Easily track bills and expenses;
create budget projections; and set alarms to remind you of bills coming
due. Send bill info to Pocket Quicken or Pocket Money. $39.95+S&H
MAR Software at: <info@marsoftware.com> or <http://www.marsoftware.com>.

* PDA Panache is your single source for stylus solutions. Our stylus
upgrades for your MessagePad are the ultimate in writing comfort and
control. Screen-safe writing tip guaranteed for life.
 - Telescoping styli for all Newtons in Black-Chrome, Gold & Sterling.
 - The "Duo" multi-function stylus/ball pen or pencil combo. With
   "EasyView" orange tip.
 - The "Beacon" LED lighted-tip stylus. Functional, slim and  elegant.
 - Low-cost Stick Styli. Custom Stylus Solutions for VARs/OEMs.
More info or Visa/MasterCard orders at: 800.270.7196, FAX: 516.467.6329,
Int'l: 516.467.4042, or visit our Web site: <http://www.pdapanache.com>

* INFORMED FILLER FOR NEWTON is your mobile data collection solution for
Inspection forms, Health Care forms ... in fact, for any forms you use!
Design custom forms on your Macintosh with Informed Designer (included).
Then, fill out your forms on the Newton quickly and accurately using
automatic defaults, choice lists, calculations and signatures.  Finally,
send completed forms directly to Informed Manager on your desktop for
further processing.  For a limited time when you mention this ad, you'll
receive both Informed Filler for Newton AND Informed Manager (for
desktop integration) for $99US (SRP $390US).  Contact Shana Corp. at:
800.386.7244, email: <info@shana.com> or WWW: <http://www.shana.com>.


REVIEW: QuickFigure Pro (QFP)
-----------------------------

** QFP MAKES SPREADSHEETS EASY **

By Don Modesto

I am a confirmed numeraphobe.  I am also a teacher (not math) so I have
to deal with a lot of numbers; QuickFigure Pro (QF) makes
number-crunching power easy.  I foresee it reducing my work load.
Instead of recording to paper and transferring to my the spreadsheet on
my desktop, I can just take my Newt into class and record attendance,
homework, and participation right there.

Re: Entry

Tap a cell and an entry slip appears with, among others, a pop-up menu of
editable functions .  Tap Edit and another slip appears allowing you to
add a function which you expect to use often.  The manual lists the ones
supported.

As usual, Newton pen input is cramped.  Unlike other programs which make
you fumble in those tiny slips with only a pen, QF includes an icon to
call up a keyboard for accurate entry.  You can set the prefs to have
this appear automatically.  Another button inputs an equals sign and two
more let you set text/ink text or numeric formats.

'Enter' your data and the slip disappears.  Tap an arrow and you can keep
entering without tapping on another cell.  The silk-screened arrows take
you up or down and QF puts two more arrows in the menu bar for going left
or right.

Hard Cell

As with anything on the Newt, space is a big issue.  QF's prefs allow you
to set a default column or change column widths by dragging but you can
only change one column at a time.  You can get around this by using a
template and/or copying imported documents into it.

Deleting columns (one at a time) also demands a work around.  I have
typed the last four paragraphs of this review while waiting for a column
to delete on spreadsheet with data in a 50 by 12 cell range: over seven
minutes by my stopwatch.  It's faster to select the range you want and
paste it into the range you don't. Inserting a column into the same sheet
took almost five minutes.  Plan carefully.  In contrast to the
sluggishness of columns, however, I was taken aback at how snappy the
charting wasless than a second for a range of 40 values.

The Prefs allow you to determine how many rows and columns are scrolled
with an arrow tap. 'Fast Scrolling' tells QF to keep the whole sheet in
memory so that scrolli/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>

* 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>

* 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>

* 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! 7th Volume of the Totally Incomplete PDA CD-ROM for Newton! This
CD-ROM from AMUG CD, Inc. contains over 1800 packages, and 590 megs in
Mac and PC format. 2.0 & 1.x Packages can be downloaded directly from the
CD to your MessagePad. Maximize your Newton experience! $29 + S/H. Call
AMUG 602.497-2244, or email <sales@amug.org> to order! See our Newton CD
web page at <http://cdrom.amug.org/>.

* BUSINESS PRODUCTIVITY PACKAGES FROM PELICANWARE
   All packages for Newton 2.0 OS - Upgrades also available.
 - QUICKFIGURE PRO 3.0: Spreadsheet application  $59.95
 - NEWTCASE 3.0: The Ultimate Utility Suite  $49.95
 - NOTION 1.5: High Performance List Manager  $59.95
 - AVAILWORKS 2.0: 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>.

* 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 3000.
   - 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.
   - SILK makes your MP130 GLOW. Floating silk screen palette so
       the built-in buttons can be seen in the dark.
For more information call 802-863-5256, email <info@catamount.com>, or
visit our web site <http://www.catamount.com>.

* NEW BILLS TO PAY PRO 3.5 Rated 4.5 by Gecko Mag (As a FileMaker user, I still can't
    synchronize my contact files).

    Go and tell the world what the MP2K does, make the software
    that people can transfer and synchronize with their files,
    and nobody will buy another PDA.

    If I would be there to give you an advice I would say: grow
    in marketing and software that makes sense for the future,
    cut costs (and as little jobs as possible) and you will get
    better products that cost less, bring in more revenue, and
    have less risk.

    Greetings from

    Karl Keiser
    Newton & Apple lover
    <kkeiser@access.ch>


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

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