PCjs Machines
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PC-SIG Diskette Library (Disk #3056)
[PCjs Machine "ibm5170"]
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CDROM.TXT
T h e P C - S I G L i b r a r y o n C D - R O M
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
This may well be the greatest collection of software ever compiled.
The PC-SIG Library on CD-ROM is our premier collection of the entire
PC-SIG library. It has over 3000 different, and complete applications
for your every need. Every shareware program we have is on one disc;
over 700 megabytes (unzipped) of software you can have immediate access
to.
Easy to use, all you have to do is insert the disc and type 'GO' at the
DOS prompt. We've included all the tools you need for fast easy access
to the programs and their descriptions.
Whether you're interested in Accounting or Windows, there's a shareware
program for you on the PC-SIG Library on CD-ROM.
Winner of the Optical Publishing Assn's Best Consumer Product Award.
Shareware for every imaginable need: Accounting Chemistry Educational
Engineering Games Hypertext Networks Programming Spreadsheets Utilities
Word Processing
# # #
PC-SIG UPDATES PC-SIG LIBRARY ON CD-ROM
For Immediate Release
PC-SIG LIBRARY ON CD-ROM UPDATED TO INCLUDE A NEW USER INTERFACE AND MORE
THAN 800 MB OF PROGRAMS June 21, 1992, SUNNYVALE, CALIF. - PC-SIG, Inc.
today announced availability of The Eleventh Edition of the PC-SIG Library
on CD-ROM. The PC-SIG Library on CD-ROM contains over 800 megabytes of
shareware and includes more than 300 new programs, 550 updated programs,
and the addition of 75 megabytes of Windows 3.x shareware. The
user-interface has been completely re-engineered to take advantage of the
HyperWriter! hypermedia and multimedia authoring system from NTERGAID, Inc.
The implementation of HyperWriter! provides significant performance and
ease of use enhancements. Programs can access and download much faster
than with previous editions. Programs have been reorganized and indexed
for better referencing. Users just c lick with a mouse, or point with the
cursor, on a program name to see a complete description of the program.
Downloading or copying a program is handled automatically by HyperWriter!
Addition of a preview option is especially important for anyone who uses
images, icons, or fonts. "You can preview the whole library of images to
find the right one," according to Bruce Kent, product development manager.
"This CD finally makes it possi ble to conserve your disk space and paper,
yet still have all the information you need to make an informed decision,"
said Kent.
All new and updated programs have been reviewed and tested by PC-SIG. Every
program goes through extensive virus checking using the most recent version
of VIRUSCAN from McAfee Associates, and other anti-virus software.
According to Kent, "In the ten ye ars we've distributed shareware, we have
never had a confirmed report of a virus on any of our distributed programs
or CD-ROMs."
The PC-SIG Library on CD-ROM, Eleventh Edition has a list price of $179.
Upgrades from previous editions are available for $99.
Users of PC-SIG's Essential Home & Business Collection CD-ROM can upgrade
for $120.
PC-SIG CD-ROMs are distributed worldwide through a network of distributors
and resellers. Based in Sunnyvale, Calif., PC-SIG, Inc. markets and
supports one of the world's largest collections of shareware for IBM PCs
and compatible systems. PC-SIG also publishes Shareware Magazine, which is
devoted solely to shareware. The magazine is availa ble by subscription
and on newsstands nationwide.
System Requirements:
IBM PC/XT/AT PS/2 or compatible with 640K memory, DOS 3.1 or higher and
Microsoft MS-DOS CD ROM extensions, and a hard drive. Microsoft compatible
mouse supported and VGA highly recommended.
To Order in the U.S.A.: Call 800-245-6717 and ask for Customer Service.
Outside the U.S.A. call (408) 730-9291 for the name of the dealer in
your country.
PCSIG.TXT
P C - S I G
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Welcome to the world of Shareware, state of the art software you can
actually try before you buy.
Shareware, a term coined in the early eighties, refers to the method of
distribution chosen by the software authors. With shareware, you can
receive a program and put it through its paces without having to pay for
it. If you find the program useful, and choose to keep the program, then
you pay a modest registration fee to the author.
For the last nine years, PC-SIG has been providing shareware and public
domain software to its customers and members. Since 1982 PC-SIG has
developed an unprecedented library of shareware programs, constantly
updated, consistently strong in every category. Our library of
shareware contains over 2700 titles divided into 120 logical categories.
Every program we add to the library is thoroughly reviewed and tested to
insure that each one meets the high standards of reliability and value we
insist upon and you expect. As a result, our library doesn't contain
every shareware program available, just those that really work.
PC-SIG has grown into the premier distributor of shareware and and
shareware information by producing shareware collections on CD-ROM,
publishing an encyclopedia of shareware, and by publishing Shareware
Magazine, a bi-monthly magazine distributed world-wide.
Quality and support - guaranteed. All of our programs are guaranteed
virus free. We've isolated our systems and check every program
submitted to insure that no viruses make their way to your computer or
ours.
Our support staff is available by phone as well as on our BBS to help
you with questions about installation and operation of PC-SIG's
products.
Through our network of international distributors, PC- SIG strives to
bring you the most current, exciting, technically advanced software
available as shareware.
If you can't find the software you need in PC-SIG's library, it may well
not exist.
To order the latest in Shareware, in the U.S.A: Call (800) 245-6717
Outside the U.S.A. call (408) 730-9291 for the name of the dealer in
your country.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
SHAREMAG.TXT
S H A R E W A R E M A G A Z I N E
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Shareware Magazine has distinguished itself as the only internationally
distributed periodical devoted to the use and business of shareware.
Shareware Magazine provides detailed reviews of new products,
hard-hitting comparisons of shareware programs with regular retail
software, and timely information about changes in the industry and the
latest technology.
Intriguing columnists and regular features add to the excitement. The
beginners section sheds light on new user's concerns regarding
everything from choosing the right operating system to alleviating the
intimidation of using on-line systems.
Educational sections focus on how low cost shareware can aid in
classroom learning, curriculum development, and as a forum for
discussing the impact of computers and technology in schools.
Graphics Gallery renders expert advice and suggestions on how to better
work with graphics, desktop publishing, CAD systems, and the Windows
environment.
Programmers benefit from others experience in developing new programs or
polishing existing ones as well as choosing the right programming
language.
And columnists provide that subjective component, sometimes
controversial, that calls for a closer look at the way we compute and
how shareware effects what we do.
Published bimonthly, Shareware Magazine is available on a subscription
or at your local newsstand or computer bookstore. In conjunction with
PC-SIG, there are special benefits for subscribers as well as
opportunities for discount purchases from PC-SIG.
To Order, in the U.S.A.: Call 800-245-6717 and ask Customer Service.
Outside the U.S.A. call (408) 730-9291 for the name of the dealer in
your country.
SIGORDER.TXT
[B]
FROM: ___________________________
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___________________________
PC-SIG Inc.
[A] [B]
1030-D East Duane Avenue
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_____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ total ______
One year subscription to Shareware Magazine $12.95 ______
Super Saver Membership $34.95 ______
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*** PC-SIG Library on CD-ROM 11th Edition *** $159.00 ______
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Upgrade to the 11th Edition from ANY previous edition
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If you have any comments or suggestions, please let us know!
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Ask for operator #2316
*****
TO PRINT THIS ORDER FORM, PRESS ANY KEY AND
THEN "Quit" ONCE TO RETURN TO THE MAIN MENU.
SELECT "Print Reply Form."
GUIDE.TXT
ToyBox (tm) II User's Guide
Copyright 1991, 1992 Virtual Magic Software
All Rights Reserved
Virtual Magic Software (tm)
P.O. Box 615
Fort Monmouth, NJ 07703
CompuServe: 70304,2045
Prodigy: CJKH33A
Member of the Association of Shareware Professionals
INTRODUCTION...................................................2
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS............................................2
REGISTRATION INFORMATION.......................................3
INSTALLING TOYBOX II...........................................4
STARTING TOYBOX II.............................................4
MOVING AROUND IN TOYBOX II.....................................5
ADDING A PROGRAM OR PAGE.......................................7
REMOVING A PROGRAM OR PAGE....................................10
VIEWING/MODIFYING A PROGRAM OR PAGE...........................10
SETTING HELPER WINDOW OPTIONS.................................10
RUNNING AN INSTALLED PROGRAM..................................11
PAINTER.......................................................12
TIPS AND TECHNIQUES...........................................14
COMPATIBILITY WITH EARLIER VERSIONS...........................16
LICENSE AND WARRANTY..........................................16
(Any last-minute additions/corrections to this User's Guide are
listed in the README.TXT file on disk.)
============
INTRODUCTION
============
ToyBox II is a beautiful, powerful EGA/VGA graphical program
manager designed for users of all ages. Program managers, often
called menu programs, allow you to run a program by choosing it
from a list of programs on the screen. You don't have to remember
cryptic DOS commands for each program. When you're finished
running a program, the program manager automatically reappears,
allowing you to select another program to run. Graphical program
managers go a step further and use colorful pictures or icons to
represent programs.
ToyBox II is unique because it has all the features found in
program managers designed for adults, yet it can be safely and
easily used by young children. It is incredibly easy to set up
programs to run from ToyBox II. Simply enter the program title,
where the program is on disk, and the name of the icon you want to
use to represent the program. File pick-lists make your job even
easier. When you're finished, ToyBox II will create a large 3-D
button with the icon you've chosen. From then on, you or your
child can start the program simply by moving the cursor or mouse
pointer to the button and pressing a key or clicking a mouse
button. Children really enjoy being able to start their own
programs without help.
You can design your own icons with the easy-to-use icon editor
built in to ToyBox II, or you can use readily-available Microsoft
Windows icons. ToyBox II allows you to set up multiple levels of
menu pages which can hold several thousand programs (if you have
that many). You can password protect individual programs or
entire menu pages. You can assign hotkeys to run particular
programs or open menu pages. You also have the option of
providing variable program parameters at the time you run a
program. ToyBox II requires no memory for its own use while it is
running your programs.
===================
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
===================
- MS-DOS 3.0 or later
- EGA/VGA
- 512K RAM
- Hard Disk
- Microsoft-compatible Mouse (optional)
2
========================
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
========================
We distribute ToyBox II as a shareware program, which means we
allow you to try the program out before you pay for it. If you
find ToyBox II helpful and continue to use it, please send a $29
(U.S.) registration fee to:
Virtual Magic Software
P.O. Box 615
Fort Monmouth, NJ 07703
We have included an order form (ORDER.TXT) on disk which you can
print out if you desire. If you choose not to use the order form
to register, we need to know your name, address and desired disk
size (3.5" or 5.25") to fulfill the order. New Jersey residents
must add 7% sales tax ($2.03 per copy). We accept checks and
money orders in U.S. funds drawn on U.S. banks. We recommend you
do not send cash.
You can also order by credit card (VISA, MC, AmEx, Discover) from
Public (software) Library by calling 800-242-4PsL (from overseas:
713-524-6394) or by FAX (713-524-6398) or via CompuServe
(71355,470). Ask for item #10535. These numbers are for ordering
only. Virtual Magic Software can NOT be reached at these numbers.
For information about dealer pricing, volume discounts, site
licensing, the status of shipment of the product, the latest
version number or for technical information, or to discuss
returns, contact Virtual Magic Software directly at the above
mailing address. You can also contact us on CompuServe
(70304,2045) or Prodigy (CJKH33A). If you have any questions or
comments about ToyBox II, even if you have not yet registered,
please let us know. It is through your comments and suggestions
that we can make ToyBox II and future products even better. When
you register, we'll send you a disk containing the latest version
of ToyBox II, plus a collection of hundreds of Microsoft Windows
icons which you can use in ToyBox II. Registered users are
entitled to free technical support for as long as we distribute
the program. Technical support will be provided via mail,
CompuServe and Prodigy. We'll also send you notice of upgrades
and additional Virtual Magic Software products in the future.
This program is produced by a member of the Association of
Shareware Professionals (ASP). ASP wants to make sure that the
shareware principle works for you. If you are unable to resolve a
shareware-related problem with an ASP member by contacting the
member directly, ASP may be able to help. The ASP Ombudsman can
help you resolve a dispute or problem with an ASP member, but does
not provide technical support for members' products. Please write
to the ASP Ombudsman at 545 Grover Road, Muskegon, MI 49442 or
send a CompuServe message via CompuServe Mail to ASP Ombudsman
70007,3536.
3
We encourage you to pass along a copy of ToyBox II to friends,
associates, computer bulletin board systems, etc. To ensure only
unmodified versions are distributed, we ask that you distribute
only the original, unaltered compressed versions of the program.
Please encourage others to register their copy if they find the
program useful.
For license and warranty information, please see the "License and
Warranty" section at the end of this User's Guide.
====================
INSTALLING TOYBOX II
====================
Normally ToyBox II is distributed as a single compressed file
named either TOY202.EXE or TOY202.ZIP. After you have
decompressed this file, the following files which make up the
complete ToyBox II program should be in a single directory on your
hard disk: TB2.BAT, TB2MAIN.EXE, SEE.EXE, TB2.INF, TB2-NU.INF,
TB2-SI1.INF, TB2-SI2.INF, GUIDE.TXT, README.TXT, REGISTER.TXT,
ORDER.TXT, VENDOR.TXT, FILE_ID.DIZ, TOYBOX.ICO, eight internal
files that end with a ".TBI" extension, and 30 sample icon files
that end with a ".ICN" extension. If you desire you can move the
text (".TXT") files, the icon (".ICN") files, and TOYBOX.ICO to
another directory, but the remainder of the files must not be
deleted and must remain together in one directory.
After you have installed some of your programs to run under ToyBox
II, you may see some additional files with a ".$$$" extension. Do
not move or remove these files. You should periodically back-up
these files, as well as the ".INF" files, because they contain
information on the programs you have installed in ToyBox II.
==================
STARTING TOYBOX II
==================
FROM THE DOS PROMPT
First change to the directory containing the ToyBox II files (or
ensure this directory is in the PATH statement in your
AUTOEXEC.BAT file), then type "TB2". ToyBox II automatically
detects whether your system has an EGA or VGA compatible graphics
card and switches to the highest graphics mode available. It will
also detect the presence of a mouse if you have a mouse driver
installed. If you have display problems, such as part of the main
ToyBox II page not being visible, or the mouse pointer not
displaying, you can force ToyBox II into the correct graphics mode
4
by typing "TB2 E" for EGA or "TB2 V" for VGA. If the mouse
pointer still doesn't display, check to ensure you have a mouse
driver properly installed.
You can include the "TB2" command in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file to
cause ToyBox II to automatically run when you turn on your
computer. If you aren't familiar with the purpose and contents of
your AUTOEXEC.BAT file, we recommend you have someone help you
with this.
FROM MICROSOFT WINDOWS
We've included a special icon for Microsoft Windows named
TOYBOX.ICO. Follow instructions in the Microsoft Windows User's
Guide to install and run ToyBox II as a DOS application under
Windows.
==========================
MOVING AROUND IN TOYBOX II
==========================
When you open a window, such as the Helper window described later,
it pops up on top of the current page and any windows that may
already be displayed. The top window is always the active window.
You can only access objects (normally buttons and text boxes) that
are in the active window.
SELECTING OBJECTS - MOUSE
Move the mouse pointer to the desired object and click any of the
mouse buttons. To make it easier for small children, all mouse
buttons have the same effect.
SELECTING OBJECTS - KEYBOARD
1) ALT Key: Objects normally have an ALT key combination
associated with them. Most objects have one or more words under
them or to the right of them describing the function of the button
or box. One of the letters in the words will have an underscore
beneath it. To select the object, hold down the ALT key and press
the letter that is underscored. For example, at the Helper
window, to select the Add Program or Page button, hold down the
ALT key and press "A". Some buttons don't have text descriptions.
The keys to select these buttons are:
5
- STOP Button: ALT+S (only at title page)
- Painter Button: ALT+P (only at title page)
- Information Button: ALT+I (only at title page )
- Close Window Button: ESC
- Helper Button: ALT+H
- OK Button: ALT+O
- Up-Arrow Button: Page Up
- Down-Arrow Button: Page Down
2) Outline Cursor: In some windows you must use the arrow
keys on your keyboard to move from one object to the next. A red
outline cursor will indicate the current object. To select the
current object, press the ENTER key. (If you have a mouse, this
red outline cursor can be turned off if you intend to use only the
mouse to select objects. See "Setting Helper Window Options"
below for instructions.)
EDITING TEXT
To add programs to ToyBox II, you must enter certain program
information such as program title, filename, etc., into text
boxes. This section describes the general procedures for entering
and editing text in text boxes.
1) Positioning the Text Cursor (Mouse): Move the mouse
pointer directly to the desired location within any of the text
boxes in the active window and click one of the mouse buttons. The
text cursor (a thin black vertical line) will move to the mouse
pointer position.
2) Positioning the Text Cursor (KeyBoard): Select the
desired text box using the ALT key combinations or up and down
arrow keys as described above. Move around within the text box by
using the left and right arrow keys. Pressing the TAB key or
ENTER key will move the text cursor to the next text box.
Pressing the TAB key while holding down SHIFT key will move the
text cursor to the previous text box.
3) Entering Text: After positioning the text cursor, begin
typing. The text will be inserted at the text cursor location.
ToyBox II will not allow you to enter more text than will fit
inside the text box.
4) Deleting Text: To delete a character to the right of the
text cursor, press the DELETE key. To delete a character to the
left of the text cursor, press the BACKSPACE key.
CLOSING THE ACTIVE WINDOW OR PAGE
Select the button in the upper left corner of the window/page with
the mouse or press the ESCAPE key.
6
SAVING CHANGES
After you have made configuration changes, such as adding a new
program or disabling the STOP button, you must save these changes
to disk. Do this by selecting the OK button with the mouse or
typing ALT+O. If you decide you don't want the changes to be
made, simply close the window without saving them.
MOVING BETWEEN PAGES
Page buttons are treated identically to program buttons. When you
select a page button, the page is displayed. To close the current
page and return to the previous page, select the button in the
upper left corner of the page or press the ESCAPE key.
========================
ADDING A PROGRAM OR PAGE
========================
Open the Helper window by selecting the Helper button (the red
cross) or by typing ALT+H. Select the Add Program or Page button
to open the Add Program or Page window. This window contains the
following objects:
1) Files Button: Select this button to open a window
containing a list of files and directories on the current drive.
Selecting a file from the list will automatically fill in the Path
and Program text boxes. Directories are indicated by a backslash
("\") at the end of the name. Selecting a directory will cause
the files for that directory to be displayed. Selecting the "..\"
entry will display the files of the parent directory of whatever
directory you are currently in. If the file list contains more
than 16 files and directories, select the blue arrow buttons (or
press the Page Up and Page Down keys) to display the next or
previous 16 files. ToyBox II can store 1024 directory/file names
at a time. If the current directory contains more than 1024
directory/file names, ToyBox II will only display the first 1024.
If you wish to add a program from a drive other than the current
drive, you must enter the Path and Program information manually,
as described below.
2) Icons Button: This button works the same as the Files
button except that it lists only ToyBox II icon (*.ICN) files.
Use this to automatically fill in the Icon text box.
3) Copy Button: Select this button to copy all program
information currently in the Add Program or Page window to a
temporary storage area in memory or "clipboard". This information
can later be pasted into another program being added or modified.
The information remains in the clipboard until you: (1) overwrite
7
it by using the Copy button again, (2) run an application, or (3)
exit ToyBox. You cannot copy information if the Page button
(discussed below) is set to "YES".
4) Paste Button: Select this button to paste clipboard
information to the program currently being added or modified.
This is useful if you want to duplicate the same program button on
more than one page.
5) Button Title Text Box: Enter a title for the program or
page button. This title will appear under the button. If you are
entering information for a page button, this will also be the
title at the top of the page when it is opened.
6) Password Text Box: You may enter an optional password
which a user must enter to start the program or open the page.
Passwords are always displayed on the screen as a series of
asterisks. This prevents someone looking over your shoulder from
viewing the password on the screen.
7) Key Text Box: You may enter an optional hotkey to be
used to select the program or page. You can use any printable
character as a hotkey. Upper and lower case letters are treated
as the same letter. Ensure that no two program/page buttons on
the same page have the same hotkey, or ToyBox II will always
select the first one it finds. (Note these are not ALT key
combinations. If you enter "M" as the hot key to run a "Mickey
Mouse" program, you will just have to press the "M" key to run the
program, not ALT+M.)
8) Path Text Box: Enter the drive/directory of the program.
The easiest way to do this is to use the Files button, which will
automatically fill in the correct information for both Path and
Program text boxes. Drive information is optional if the file is
on the same drive as ToyBox II. Directory information is optional
if the file is in the same directory as ToyBox II or one of the
directories listed in the DOS PATH statement. The directory must
begin with a backslash ("\").
Example: C:\NATHAN\GAMES\
9) Program Text Box: Enter the command to execute the
program, plus any optional parameters.
Example: MICKABC /E
10) Icon Text Box: Enter the complete path and filename of
the icon to be displayed on the button. The easiest way to do
this is to use the Icons button described above, which will
automatically fill in the correct information. Drive information
is optional if the icon file is on the same drive as ToyBox II.
Directory information is optional if the icon is in the same
8
directory as ToyBox II. The directory must begin with "\". If
you don't put an extension on the file name, ToyBox II will assume
a ".ICN" extension.
Example: C:\ICONS\ABC.ICN
ToyBox II can only use icons in ToyBox format, normally
represented by a ".ICN" extension. These icons can be designed
using the Painter icon editor built into ToyBox II. A number of
sample icons are included on the ToyBox II disk. Some of these
icons were designed from scratch with Painter. Others are
Microsoft Windows icons that were imported and converted by
Painter. For instructions on designing and importing icons, see
the "Painter" section below.
11) Page Button: Setting this to "YES" indicates that
information being entered is for a button that will open a page
(submenu). In this case, anything entered in the Program and Path
text boxes is ignored. ToyBox II allows up to five levels of
pages, which can hold thousands of programs.
12) Wait Button: Setting this to "YES" causes ToyBox II to
wait for ENTER to be pressed before redisplaying the current page
after running the program. This is useful if you need time to
view the results of the program before ToyBox II reappears.
13) Variables Button: Setting this to "YES" allows you to
enter additional command line parameters at the time you run the
program. This is useful if you sometimes run the same program
with different parameters.
14) Batch Button: Set this to "YES" if the program is a
batch file (a file with a ".BAT" extension), otherwise the program
will not return to ToyBox II after it runs. Another option for
running a batch file (and actually the preferable option) if you
are using MS-DOS 3.3 or later, is to leave this set to "NO" and
precede the program name with the word "CALL" in the "Program"
text box.
Example: CALL MCGEE.BAT
15) OK Button: After you have entered all necessary
information, select the OK button with the mouse or press ALT+O to
save the information to disk and close the window. To close the
window without adding the program/page, select the Close Window
button in the upper left corner of the window or press the ESCAPE
key.
9
==========================
REMOVING A PROGRAM OR PAGE
==========================
Open the Helper window by selecting the Helper button (the red
cross) or by pressing ALT+H. Select the Remove Program or Page
button to open the Remove Program or Page window. This window
lists the names of all the program/page buttons on the current
page. Select the program/page buttons you wish to remove, then
select the OK button or press ALT+O. To close the window without
removing any programs, select the Close Window button with the
mouse or press the ESCAPE key. Removing a program from ToyBox II
does not delete the program from disk. It still exists and can be
run normally from DOS or later added back to ToyBox II. (If you
try to remove a button for a page that itself has subpages, you
will get a message saying "Pages containing subpages were not
removed." To remove the button in a case like this, you must
first close the Helper window, open the page containing the
subpages, and remove all the subpages individually.)
===================================
VIEWING/MODIFYING A PROGRAM OR PAGE
===================================
Open the Helper window by selecting the Helper button (the red
cross) or by pressing ALT+H. Select the View/Modify Program or
Page button to open the View/Modify window. This window lists the
names of all the program and page buttons on the current page.
Select the program/page button you wish to view or modify. A
window titled View/Modify Program or Page will pop up containing
the current information for that program/page button. You can
make any desired changes using the same techniques used in the Add
Program or Page window.
=============================
SETTING HELPER WINDOW OPTIONS
=============================
All pages have a Helper window which you can use to add, remove or
view/modify program buttons on that page. However, the following
options are displayed only on the Helper window for the ToyBox II
title page.
1) STOP Button: Setting this to "NO" disables the STOP
button on the ToyBox II title page. To exit the program when the
STOP button is disabled, you must press ALT+S. As an additional
level of security, you can password protect the ALT+S function.
See paragraph 6 below.
10
2) Helper Button: Setting this to "NO" disables the Helper
button on all pages. To open the Helper window when the Helper
button is disabled, you must press ALT+H. As an additional level
of security, you can password protect the ALT+H function. See
paragraph 6 below.
3) Disk Access: Setting this to "NO" disables the Read Icon
and Write Icon buttons in Painter. Disabling these buttons allows
a child (or other user) to use Painter without being able to
access the disk and possibly corrupting files. To access the Read
Icon button when disk access is disabled, you must press ALT+R.
To access the Write Icon button when disk access is disabled, you
must press ALT+W.
4) Sound: Setting this to "NO" turns off the occasional
sounds that ToyBox II makes when certain keys are pressed. This
in no way affects the sound in the programs that you run under
ToyBox II.
5) Cursor: Setting this to "NO" turns off the red outline
cursor used to indicate the current object on pages. Users
without a mouse should leave this set to "YES". Users with a
mouse can turn the cursor off if desired.
6) Password: Enter an optional password a user must enter
when attempting to exit the program with ALT+S or attempting to
open the Helper Window with ALT+H. The same password applies to
both. This password has no effect on individual programs or
pages. Passwords for these are set in the Add Program or Page or
the View/Modify Program or Page windows.
7) OK Button: After you have set the options the way you
want them, select the OK button with the mouse or press ALT+O.
This will save the current settings to disk and close the Helper
window. No changes take effect until they are saved to disk. To
close the Helper window without saving any changes, select the
Close Window button with the mouse or press the ESCAPE key.
============================
RUNNING AN INSTALLED PROGRAM
============================
After you have added a program button to ToyBox II, you can easily
run the program by selecting the program button with the mouse,
selecting it with the arrow keys and pressing ENTER (if the red
outline cursor is enabled), or pressing the hot key associated
with the program. If you have entered the path and program
information correctly, the program will start normally as it would
from the DOS command line. When you exit the program, ToyBox II
will take over again and display the current page.
11
=======
PAINTER
=======
Painter is an icon editor built into ToyBox II. With Painter you
can design your own 32x32 pixel, 16 color icons for programs you
install in ToyBox II, or you can import Microsoft Windows icons
and convert them to ToyBox format.
PAINTING ICONS - MOUSE
Choose a color by selecting any of the 16 palette buttons with the
mouse. The current color will always show in the box above the
palette buttons. After selecting a color, position the mouse
pointer in the desired square on the large icon grid box, then
press any mouse button. The square will change to the current
color. To paint multiple squares with the same color, hold one of
the mouse buttons down while dragging the mouse pointer over the
squares you want to paint. As you paint the icon on the large
grid box, you will also see the effects displayed on the actual-
size button to the right of the large grid box.
PAINTING ICONS - KEYBOARD
Choose a color by moving the red outline cursor to the desired
palette button with the arrow keys, then press the ENTER key. The
current color will always show in the box above the palette
buttons. After selecting a color, press the SPACEBAR to move the
cursor to the large icon grid box. Move the small yellow grid
cursor to the desired square using the arrow keys, then press the
ENTER key. The square will change to the current color. To paint
multiple squares with the same color, hold down the CTRL key as
you press the left arrow, right arrow, Page Up, and Page Down
keys. The squares will be painted as the grid cursor moves over
them. (NOTE: There are technical considerations with the IBM PC
keyboard which force us to use CTRL-Page Up and CTRL-Page Down
instead of CTRL-Up Arrow and CTRL-Down Arrow. We realize it's
more awkward than it should be.) To move the cursor back to the
palette buttons, press the SPACEBAR again.
FILL ALL BUTTON
Select this button to fill the entire grid with the current color.
12
READ ICON BUTTON
Select this button to read in an already-existing icon from disk.
Selecting this button will cause a window with a text box to pop
up. Enter the path and file name of the icon file in the text
box.
Example: C:\ICONS\ABC.ICN
The easiest way to do this is to select the Files button, which
will cause a window containing a list of files to pop up. This
file list behaves exactly as the Files button described in the
"Addding a Program or Page" section. Drive information is
optional if the icon file is the on same drive as ToyBox II.
Directory information is optional if the icon file is in the same
directory as ToyBox II. The directory must begin with "\". If
you don't put an extension on the file name, Painter will assume a
".ICN" extension. After you have entered the icon file
information, press the ENTER key to read the icon file. The icon
will be displayed on the large icon grid box and the actual-size
button to the right. To close the window without reading an icon,
select the red Close Window button.
WRITE ICON BUTTON
Select this button to save the displayed icon to a disk file.
Selecting this button will cause a window with a text box to pop
up. Enter the path and file name you wish to save the icon as.
Use the same procedures as described in the previous paragraph.
The only difference is that you must select the OK button with the
mouse or press ALT+O to save the file to disk. To close the
window without writing the icon to disk, select the Close Window
button.
IMPORTING MICROSOFT WINDOWS ICON FILES
To import a Microsoft Windows icon file (normally with a ".ICO"
extension), read it in like you would a normal ToyBox II icon.
Painter will make the conversion as it reads the file in. After
you have made any desired changes to the icon, write it to disk.
If you use the same file name, do not use the ".ICO" extension or
you will write over the Windows version of the icon file. If you
don't specify an extension, Painter will attach a ".ICN"
extension.
Thousands of Microsoft Windows icon files are freely available
from bulletin board systems and on-line services such as
CompuServe and GEnie, or available for a small charge from
shareware disk vendors, or available for a substantial charge from
commercial software vendors.
13
Painter can only import MS Windows icons that are in 32x32x16
format (32 pixels by 32 pixels by 16 colors). The vast majority
of MS Windows icon files available are in this format. Most MS
Windows programs do not have separate icon files. Instead, the
icons are included in one of the program files (".EXE" or ".DLL").
A single program file can have several icons stored in it.
Painter cannot extract the icons from these files, but there are
several shareware programs that can extract the icons and put them
into separate icon files that Painter can import.
===================
TIPS AND TECHNIQUES
===================
RUNNING MULTIPLE COMMANDS
ToyBox II allows you to directly run one program or DOS command
per program button. If you need to set up a button to run a
series of programs or commands, you can do this by creating a
batch file containing all the necessary commands and setting up a
program button to run the batch file. To easily create batch
files you can set up a program button to open your favorite text
editor or word processor. The editor that is included with MS-DOS
5.0 provides a quick, easy way to create, view and edit batch
files and other text files. Here is a sample setup for a program
button to run the DOS editor:
Button Title: MS-DOS Editor Page: NO
Password: (your choice) Wait: NO
Key: E Variables: YES *
Path: C:\DOS\ Batch: NO
Program: EDIT
Icon: C:\TB2\EDIT.ICN
* Setting Variables to "YES" will allow you to specify the
file to edit as a command-line parameter at the time you run the
editor.
FILE MANAGER
ToyBox II does not include built-in file management features, but
you can easily set up a program button to access your favorite
file management program. The DOS Shell included with MS-DOS 5.0
provides a graphical file manager for copying, deleting and moving
files and directories. Here is a sample setup for a program
button to run the DOS Shell program:
14
Button Title: MS-DOS Shell Page: NO
Password: (your choice) Wait: NO
Key: S Variables: NO
Path: C:\DOS\ Batch: NO
Program: DOSSHELL
Icon: C:\TB2\SHELL.ICN
DOS COMMAND LINE
In some cases you may find that you need to execute a program or
DOS command from the DOS command line. You have two choices. The
first choice is to exit from ToyBox II, execute the command and,
when you're finished, start ToyBox II again. A better solution,
particularly if you will need to do this on a recurring basis, is
to set up a program button to put you at the DOS command line
temporarily without exiting ToyBox II. This is done by using the
COMMAND function of DOS. The following sample program button,
when selected, will display the DOS prompt. You can run any
programs/commands as you normally would from the command line. To
return to ToyBox II, type EXIT at the command line and the current
ToyBox II page will reappear.
Button Title: MS-DOS Prompt Page: NO
Password: (your choice) Wait: NO
Key: S Variables: NO
Path: C:\DOS\ Batch: NO
Program: COMMAND
Icon: C:\TB2\DOS.ICN
MICROSOFT WINDOWS PROGRAMS
If you run Microsoft Windows, but also have a number of DOS (non-
Windows) applications, you may find it convenient to run Windows
as a program under ToyBox II. You can install program buttons in
ToyBox II for each of your DOS applications and set up your
AUTOEXEC.BAT file to automatically open ToyBox II. Since ToyBox
II loads much faster than Windows, you won't have to wait for
Windows to load before you access your DOS programs. You can then
set up a program button to open Windows as follows:
Button Title: Microsoft Windows Page: NO
Password: (your choice) Wait: NO
Key: W Variables: NO
Path: C:\WINDOWS\ Batch: NO
Program: WIN
Icon: C:\TB2\WIN.ICN
15
Another technique is to set up a page called "Windows Programs"
and create separate program buttons for each of your Windows
applications. To automatically load Windows and run a specific
Windows application, enter the Path and Program information as you
would for a normal DOS application, then precede the program name
with "WIN". Here is a sample program button set up to load
Windows and run Quicken for Windows:
Button Title: Quicken Page: NO
Password: (your choice) Wait: NO
Key: W Variables: NO
Path: C:\QUICKENW\ Batch: NO
Program: WIN QW.EXE
Icon: C:\TB2\QUICKEN.ICN
===================================
COMPATIBILITY WITH EARLIER VERSIONS
===================================
The configuration files for ToyBox II are incompatible with
earlier versions of ToyBox. If you are upgrading from an earlier
version, you must reinstall programs in ToyBox II. The icon files
are compatible. You can use the icons supplied with earlier
versions, as well as any icons you have created yourself.
====================
LICENSE AND WARRANTY
====================
THIS PROGRAM IS SUPPLIED AS IS. THE AUTHOR DISCLAIMS ALL
WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION,
THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND OF FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE.
THE AUTHOR ASSUMES NO LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES, DIRECT OR
CONSEQUENTIAL, WHICH MAY RESULT FROM THE USE OF THIS PROGRAM.
ToyBox II is a "shareware program" and is provided at no charge to
the user for evaluation. Feel free to share it with others, but
please do not give it away altered or as part of another system.
The essence of "user-supported" software is to provide personal
computer users with quality software without high prices, and yet
to provide incentive for programmers to continue to develop new
products.
If you find ToyBox II helpful and you continue to use it after a
reasonable trial period, you must make a registration payment of
$29 to Virtual Magic Software as described in the "Registration"
section of this User's Guide. The $29 registration fee will
license one copy for use on any one computer at any one time. You
must treat this software just like a book. An example is that
this software may be used by any number of people and may be
freely moved from one computer location to another, as long as
16
there is no possibility of it being used at one location while
it's being used at another. Just as a book cannot be read by two
different persons at the same time.
Commercial and organizational users of ToyBox II must register and
pay for their copies of ToyBox II within 30 days of first use or
their license is withdrawn. Site licenses can be arranged by
contacting Virtual Magic Software.
ToyBox II is a copyrighted program distributed as shareware.
Distributors approved by the Association of Shareware
Professionals (ASP) may immediately distribute ToyBox II. Others
wishing to distribute ToyBox II for payment must first contact
Virtual Magic Software for authorization. Not-for-profit users
groups may distribute ToyBox II, and charge a fee for copying and
disks, without prior authorization. Electronic bulletin board
systems (BBSs) may distribute ToyBox II without prior
authorization.
ToyBox is a trademark of Virtual Magic Software.
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
MS-DOS is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Quicken is a registered trademark of Intuit.
17
ORDER.TXT
ORDER FORM
TO: FROM:
Virtual Magic Software _________________________________
P.O. Box 615
Fort Monmouth, NJ 07703 _________________________________
_________________________________
CompuServe: 70304,2045
Prodigy: CJKH33A _________________________________
_________________________________
___ copies of ToyBox II @ $29.00 each ________
New Jersey residents add 7% sales tax ________
($2.03 per copy)
TOTAL ________
Disk Size: ___ 3.5"
___ 5.25"
You can also order by credit card (VISA, MC, AmEx, Discover) from
Public (software) Library by calling 800-242-4PsL (from overseas:
713-524-6394) or by FAX (713-524-6398) or via CompuServe
(71355,470). These numbers are for ordering only. Virtual Magic
Software can NOT be reached at these numbers.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
The following information is entirely voluntary:
1. Which of the following do you have on your computer system?
Floppy Drives: ___ 3.5" (720K) ___ 5.25" (360K)
___ 3.5" (1.4M) ___ 5.25" (1.2M)
Video Display: ___ EGA ___ VGA ___________________Other
Mouse: ___ Yes ___ No
2. Where did you obtain your shareware copy of ToyBox II?
______________________________________________________
3. Which of the following age groups will be using ToyBox II?
___ Pre-School ___ Junior High ___ Adult
___ Elementary ___ High School
README.TXT
==========
TEXT FILES
==========
ToyBox II contains the following readable text files:
README.TXT - This file
*GUIDE.TXT - User's Guide
*REGISTER.TXT - Registration information
*ORDER.TXT - Order form you can print out
VENDOR.TXT - Info for disk vendors and other distributers
FILE_ID.DIZ - Standard file used by bulletin board systems.
The files with an asterisk (*) can be viewed or printed from
inside of ToyBox II:
1) Type "TB2" to start ToyBox II.
2) At the main title page select the New User button with
the mouse pointer or press ENTER on the keyboard.
3) At the New User page select the file you wish to view.
You can also use your own text editor or word processor to view or
print any of these files.
Please read the User's Guide to become familiar with all of the
capabilities of ToyBox II. License and Warranty information is
contained in the User's Guide.
============================
SELECTING OBJECTS - KEYBOARD
============================
For those users without a mouse, we've extracted the following
paragraphs from the Users Guide (GUIDE.TXT) to give you a quick
start on using the keyboard to move around in ToyBox II. If you
have a mouse, just point and click on the various objects. You
should read the Users Guide for complete information on all of the
capabilities of ToyBox II.
1) ALT Key: Objects normally have an ALT key combination
associated with them. Most objects have one or more words under
them or to the right of them describing the function of the button
or box. One of the letters in the words will have an underscore
beneath it. To select the object, hold down the ALT key and press
the letter that is underscored. For example, at the Helper
window, to select the Add Program or Page button, hold down the
ALT key and press "A". Some buttons don't have text descriptions.
The keys to select these buttons are:
- STOP Button: ALT+S (only at title page)
- Painter Button: ALT+P (only at title page)
- Information Button: ALT+I (only at title page )
- Close Window Button: ESC
- Helper Button (the red cross): ALT+H
- OK Button: ALT+O
- Up-Arrow Button: Page Up
- Down-Arrow Button: Page Down
2) Outline Cursor: In some windows you must use the arrow
keys on your keyboard to move from one object to the next. A red
outline cursor will indicate the current object. To select the
current object, press the ENTER key. (If you have a mouse, this
red outline cursor can be turned off if you intend to use only the
mouse to select objects. See "Setting Helper Window Options" in
the Users Guide for instructions.)
===============
SEE FILE VIEWER
===============
The included SEE file viewer (copyright Pinnacle Software) is used
by ToyBox II to view/print text files. The complete SEE program
consists of four files: READ.ME, SEE.EXE, SEE.DOC and SEE.MAX.
Read the SEE.DOC file for Pinnacle Software's terms for
distributing these files as a standalone program. However, when
distributing ToyBox II, you must include these four files.
REGISTER.TXT
========================
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
========================
We distribute ToyBox II as a shareware program, which means we
allow you to try the program out before you pay for it. If you
find ToyBox II helpful and continue to use it, please send a $29
(U.S.) registration fee to:
Virtual Magic Software
P.O. Box 615
Fort Monmouth, NJ 07703
We have included an order form (ORDER.TXT) on disk which you can
print out if you desire. If you choose not to use the order form
to register, we need to know your name, address and desired disk
size (3.5" or 5.25") to fulfill the order. New Jersey residents
must add 7% sales tax ($2.03 per copy). We accept checks and
money orders in U.S. funds drawn on U.S. banks.
You can also order by credit card (VISA, MC, AmEx, Discover) from
Public (software) Library by calling 800-242-4PsL (from overseas:
713-524-6394) or by FAX (713-524-6398) or via CompuServe
(71355,470). Ask for item #10535. These numbers are for ordering
only. Virtual Magic Software can NOT be reached at these numbers.
For information about dealer pricing, volume discounts, site
licensing, the status of shipment of the product, the latest
version number or for technical information, or to discuss
returns, contact Virtual Magic Software directly at the above
mailing address. You can also contact us on CompuServe
(70304,2045) or Prodigy (CJKH33A). If you have any questions or
comments about ToyBox II, even if you have not yet registered,
please let us know. It is through your comments and suggestions
that we can make ToyBox II and future products even better.
When you register, we'll send you a disk containing the latest
version of ToyBox II, plus a collection of several hundred
Microsoft Windows icons which you can use in ToyBox II.
Registered users are entitled to free technical support for as
long as we distribute the program. Technical support will be
provided via mail, CompuServe and Prodigy. We will also send you
notice of upgrades and additional Virtual Magic Software products
in the future.
This program is produced by a member of the Association of
Shareware Professionals (ASP). ASP wants to make sure that the
shareware principle works for you. If you are unable to resolve a
shareware-related problem with an ASP member by contacting the
member directly, ASP may be able to help. The ASP Ombudsman can
help you resolve a dispute or problem with an ASP member, but does
not provide technical support for members' products. Please write
to the ASP Ombudsman at 545 Grover Road, Muskegon, MI 49442 or
send a CompuServe message via CompuServe Mail to ASP Ombudsman
70007,3536.
We encourage you to pass along a copy of ToyBox II to friends,
associates, computer bulletin board systems, etc. To ensure only
unmodified versions are distributed, we ask that you distribute
only the original, unaltered compressed versions of the program
Please encourage others to register their copy if they find the
program useful.
For license and warranty information, please see the "License and
Warranty" section in the User's Guide (GUIDE.TXT on disk).
VENDOR.TXT
============================
INFORMATION FOR DISTRIBUTORS
============================
ToyBox (tm) II - Version 2.02
A Graphical Menu System for Kids of All Ages
Virtual Magic Software (tm)
P.O. Box 615
Fort Monmouth, NJ 07703
CompuServe: 70304,2045
Prodigy: CJKH33A
ASP Member
DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS
-------------------------
ToyBox II is a copyrighted program distributed as shareware.
Distributors approved by the Association of Shareware
Professionals (ASP) may immediately distribute ToyBox II. Others
wishing to distribute ToyBox II for payment must first contact
Virtual Magic Software for authorization. Not-for-profit users
groups may distribute ToyBox II, and charge a fee for copying and
disks, without prior authorization. Electronic bulletin board
systems (BBSs) may distribute ToyBox II without prior
authorization.
We suggest using TOY202.* as the archive filename for the
ToyBox II version 2.02 files.
SUGGESTED SHORT DESCRIPTION
---------------------------
ToyBox II: A Graphical Menu System for Kids of All Ages
SUGGESTED MEDIUM DESCRIPTION
----------------------------
ToyBox II - a new graphical DOS menu system designed with
kids in mind. Powerful, but so simple, even young children can
use it to start their own programs without assistance. Large 3-D
buttons with colorful Windows-compatible icons represent your
programs. Superb EGA/VGA graphics. Mouse optional.
SUGGESTED LONG DESCRIPTION
--------------------------
Finally a graphical interface designed with kids in mind.
ToyBox II is a new graphical DOS menuing system with the powerful
features adults need, but so simple, even young children can use
it to start their own programs without assistance. ToyBox II
displays large 3-D buttons with colorful, Microsoft Windows-
compatible icons to represent your DOS and Windows programs. So
instead of trying to remember cryptic DOS commands, you or your
child can press a single key or click a mouse button to start any
program. To make things easier for small hands, all mouse buttons
have the same effect and no double-clicks are required. You can
also set options that prevent inquisitive young power users from
leaving ToyBox II or accessing any areas you don't want them to
get into.
Behind the scenes, ToyBox II's features are anything but
childlike: multiple levels of nested menu pages that can hold
several thousand programs; passwords for programs and pages;
hotkeys; variable program parameters; file pick-lists for easily
adding programs; and a built-in icon editor for designing your own
icons. ToyBox II can run any COM, EXE, or BAT file, or any DOS
command, and it does not remain in memory while it is running your
programs. Superb EGA/VGA graphics.
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
-------------------
MS-DOS 3.0 or higher / EGA or VGA / 512K RAM / Hard disk /
Mouse (optional)
REGISTRATION FEE/BENEFITS
-------------------------
Registration fee is $29.00. Registered users receive a disk
containing the latest version of ToyBox II, as well as a
collection of several hundred Microsoft Windows icons that can be
used in ToyBox II. Free technical support.
VERSION HISTORY
---------------
Version 2.00 was the initial release of ToyBox II, a much
more powerful follow-on to the original ToyBox program. Version
2.01 fixed one small bug and made some minor changes to the
graphical interface. This version had very limited distribution.
Version 2.02 fixes another small bug and makes some more very
minor changes to the graphics.
(Copyright 1992 Virtual Magic Software)
Directory of PC-SIG Library Disk #3056
Volume in drive A has no label
Directory of A:\
CDROM TXT 3972 6-24-92 1:25p
TOY202 ZIP 131372 5-27-92 8:07p
SHAREMAG TXT 1837 1-21-92 6:11a
PCSIG TXT 2335 1-21-92 6:09a
GO EXE 26022 1-10-92 12:14p
SIGORDER TXT 3332 6-25-92 2:28p
GO-STRT DAT 534 9-30-92 9:35a
PKUNZIP EXE 23528 3-15-90 1:10a
GO-FORM DAT 3109 6-29-92 3:26p
9 file(s) 196041 bytes
121856 bytes free