SMART TEXT TS-2068
Copyright 1984 by Gulf Micro Electronics,
1317 Stratford Ave., Panama City, FL 32404.
(904) 871-4513.
Please note that this a limited review. I began with this program some time ago, but before my review was completed my 2068 “expired.” I hasten to note that the program had nothing to do with said demise.
Many programs may be evaluated and either reviewed or rejected in a single session at the keyboard. This IS NOT TRUE in the case of Bill Jones‘ SMART TEXT TS-2068. In fact, upon first reading the 70-page manual, my reaction was, “Egad, he has reinvented Wordstar!” Of course I jest. Nevertheless, a mere listing of the features and functons approaches the unbelievable.
Quoting from the attractive cover of the latest (and in my judgement, improved) 70-page manual, SMART TEXT TS-2068 is, “Integrated Administrative Software Featuring Data Base Management, Mailing List, Word Processing, Label Printing, Auto Letterheads, Form Letters, Repeat Print Multi-page Manuals [such as the one from which I am quoting], Direct Type-Print, Supports all Interfaces, Universal Printer Patch.” Versions are available for Cassette and all Interfaces, Zebra OS-64 Cartridge, Aerco Disk, and A&J Microdrive.
All the above features would appear to stretch the capacity of the un-expanded 2068. Bill Jones admits that his first version ate up all available memory before he had all the features he desired, and he was forced to “invent” what he terms “DENSE PACK BASIC.”
“DENSE PACK” being Bill Jones’ invention, I leave the full tutorial chore to him. And, of course, I hope he will write it up for a future issue of TSH. In brief, the system utilizes all of the memory saving tricks I ever heard of plus more that may forever remain “beyond my ken.” Such things as “PSEUDO-HEX variables” almost make sense to me, but such things as 10 conditional IF THEN statements with a few VALs thrown in residing in a single program line leaves me gasping for breath. Even so, IT IS BASIC and can be readily modified by following instructions contained in the manual. In this regard, it behooves one to LLIST the program for reference during the modifications. It only requires somewhere around 12 feet of paper on the 2040 printer, and the results may be wrapped around a couple of of pieces of broomstick or mop handle for manual scrolling. Of course the knowledgable user will perform any such modification on a “working copy” of the program. According to the manual the original program length was 32K. DENSE PACK yielded the current program length of only 20K.
Use of the “Universal Printer Patch” requires entry of certain data obtained from one’s printer manual (it should be noted that some older printers are sadly deficient in the manual department) and also may require editing of a few program lines. This operation is very thoroughly explained in the SMART TEXT MANUAL. Those who have ranted, raved, and resorted to strong language trying to make a printer behave will appreciate this feature.
SMART TEXT TS-2068 is menu-driven. In fact, there is an abundance of menus. Fortunately, the latest version of the manual has four pages of diagrams of menu relationships; a veritable “road map” to assist one in arriving at Proficiencyville. Data is stored in “array cells” or “data banks” by menu selection from whence it may be recalled in any desired order for further printing, or whatever. This results in a high degree of flexibility, but the rather complex system will require some study and usage before maximum productivity is attained.
I end up with mixed feelings concerning SMART TEXT TS-2068. It is much too complex a program for most of my writing chores. Yet, on the other hand, when I write The Great American Novel. . .I will probably also have to publish it.
Due to the time lapse, I hesitate to quote prices for the various versions of SMART TEXT TS-2068, so why not write or call Bill Jones at the above address or number. Tell him who sent you.