FOURTH ANNUAL ANTIC SHOPPERS GUIDE
by GIGI BISSON Antic Assistant Editorwith
NAT FRIEDLAND
and
JACK POWELL
of the Antic Staff
This has been a year of exciting changes in the Atari marketplace. Here's Antic's selection of over 100 best products-of every type-available for Atari computers during the 1985 holiday season.
In certain widespread categories, such as printers, modems and video monitors, so many makes and models are compatible with the Atari that we cannot possibly test every product on the market. The Antic picks in these categories are the best of these products with which we have had first-hand experience.
HARDWARE
8-bit COMPUTERS
ATARI 130XE
The 130XE showed up in stores this spring without any fanfare. It has
been selling fast-at prices as low as $119.97-and customers are more than
satisfied. With twice as much memory as the 800XL, this 128K computer is
capable of running "serious" productivity software without any compromise.
Yet the 130XE is totally upward-compatible with all the
rest of Atari's 8-bit computers (no other company has ever maintained such
compatibility) and the sleek new keyboard is a joy to operate. A computer
this good, selling for less than what the 800XL cost in 1984, would have
been simply unimaginable 18 months ago.
$149.95
ATARI 800XL
It's hard to believe that the 800XL-along with the legendary 800 the
best 64K personal computer ever made-is now selling for less than $100
and no longer is in production. If Atari continues to market a low-priced
64K computer in the U.S., it will be same 65XE model which is available
in Canada and overseas. However, the 800XL is still a fine choice for first-time
computer buyers in 1985, with its solid base of good software and self-teaching
books.
$99.95
16-bit COMPUTERS
ATARI 520ST
Here is the future of Atari. The 520ST arrived in July with 512K memory,
a 360K, 3 1/2-inch disk drive, a color monitor, a two-button mouse and
the GEM icon-driven operating interface, and a choice between 640x400 monochrome
monitor or a 512-color RGB monitor. This computer package costs less than
a stripped-down 64K Apple IIe.
There has never been a personal computer as powerful as
the 520ST available at anywhere near the below-$ 1,000 price. The ST series
is driven by the same Motorola 68000 microchip used in the Macintosh, the
high-powered 68000 runs on the ST at a speed of 8Mhz (eight million cycles
per second). The ST's built-in interfaces include RS-232 serial, Centronics
parallel, MIDI and three types of video input. The keyboard is controlled
by its own microprocessor and includes a 10-key pad, one-touch cursor section,
10 programmable function keys and an UNDO key.
$799.95 with monochrome monitor
$999.95 with color monitor
260STM,
260STFM
At this writing, Atari says it is still planning an October release
of the 260ST model announced at the June Consumer Electronics Show. The
260STM ($399.95) was to have 256K memory. It would sell without a monitor,
and a television RF modulator would be built-in. GEM would be in memory-conserving
ROM chips instead of on disk. (Atari has promised that 520ST owners will
be able to obtain the finalized GEM on simple plug-in chips at "nominal
cost.") A 260STFM model was to include a built-in 3 1/2-inch disk drive
and sell for $499.95.
Atari Corporation, 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 (408) 745-2000
(Model numbers and prices of Atari Corp. products described in this Shoppers Guide may be subject to change.)
See the ST SECTION in this issue for the Shoppers Guide to ST Peripherals and Software.
DISK DRIVES
ATARI 1050
This dependable "no frills" drive simply reads and writes disks, with
no digital readouts, no printer ports, no on-board bells and whistles.
But it is a proven reliable performer that does the job well, supports
single and enhanced density and is immediately compatible with all Atari
software. Comes with well-programmed DOS 2.5 disk operating system.
$199.95. Atari corp., 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. (408) 745-2000.
INDUS GT
Indus has reduced the price of the "Mercedes" of Atari drives. This
reliable disk drive has a sexy, high-tech look and has been recently enhanced
with Syncromesh, a DOS that runs it faster than ever. The front panel flaunts
a flashing digital display and four control buttons. Whisper quiet, the
Indus supports single, enhanced and double density and comes in a compact
carrying case that converts to a disk library. You also get software including
DOS XL, a simple word processor and a spreadsheet.
$324.95. Indus Systems, 9304 Deering Avenue, Chatsworth, CA 91311. (818) 882-9600.
PRINTERS
STAR SG-10
Offering both speedy draft quality and great-looking "near letter quality,"
the SG-10 dot-matrix printer is a worthy successor to Star's deservedly
popular Gemini 10X. Antic has successfully used the SG-10 with AtariWriter,
PaperClip, HomePak, Letter Perfect, Print Shop, and every program from
our March 1985 Printer Issue. We also use the "near letter quality" mode
to prepare all the program listings in the magazine. Sold for much less
than the list price at many outlets. Interface required.
$299.99. Star Micronics, Inc. 200 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10166. (212) 986-6770.
EPSON DX-10
Don't let the low price fool you. Epson's first daisy wheel printer
offers true letter-quality for the masses. It's no speed demon at 10 characters
per second and it doesn't come with a tractor feed. But the DX-10 is a
real value breakthrough with excellent type quality and costly features
like boldface, underlining, superscript, subscript and easily changed cartridge
ribbon. Interface required.
$299. Epson America, Inc., 2780 Lomita Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90505. (213) 539-9140.
C. ITOH 8510 SEP+
A fast dot-matrix printer that's built like a tank, for years of heavy
business or academic use. The "near letter quality" type is bold and clear-about
what you'd get on a manual typewriter with a cloth ribbon. Speedy 180 cps
at draft mode, full ASCII character set with true descenders, subscript,
superscript, underlining, friction and tractor feed. Interface required.
$549. C. Itoh Digital Products, Inc., 1011 Francisco Street, Torrance, CA 90502. (213) 327-5939.
ATARI XDM121,
ATARI XMM801
As Antic went to press, Atari told us that two new printers for the
8-bit computer line would arrive in October. The $229.95 letter quality
XDMl2l is a daisy wheel printer. The $199.95 XMM804 dot-matrix model supports
graphics and prints 80 characters per second. Either model uses the Atari's
regular SIO connectors and will daisychain with disk drives.
Atari Corp., 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. (408) 745-2000.
COLOR PRINTERS
OKIMATE 10
The Okimate 10 is a small, quiet and inexpensive thermal printer that
prints 8" x 5 1/4" color images on single sheet or tractor feed paper.
It comes with a slow, poorly designed BASIC program that will make color
printouts from most Micro Illustrator files, if you have an XL/XE computer
with 48K memory and DOS 2. However, the way to get truly impressive color
printouts from the Oki is to use RAMbrandt software ($19.95, Antic
Catalog, AP157) and coated ink-jet paper.
$208 including Atari interface. Okidata Corp., 532 Fellowship Road, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054. (609) 235-2600.
MONITORS
COMMODORE 1702
Yes, it's a first. You are actually seeing Antic Magazine recommend
a product from Atari's arch-rival. Until arrival of Atari's long-promised
line of $150 monitors, the popular Commodore 1702 may well be the best
deal around for color/ sound video. The big plus here is the sharp color
image provided by the 1702's separate chrominance and luminance output,
which will also go great with your VCR. Standard video output is also provided.
$225. Commodore Computer, 1200 WIlson Drive, West Chester, PA 19380. (800) 247-9000.
AMDEK 300A
This amber monochrome monitor makes for easy reading, especially when
doing a lot of word processing or database entry. We use this here at Antic
with an Atari 800 computer and our busiest letter-quality printer. It does
the job well.
$199. Amdek, 2201 Lively Boulevard, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007. (312) 36-4-1180.
NEC 1215
This color monitor offers clear, crisp hues with equally good sound.
You can adjust brightness, color, tint, volume and sharpness. At Antic
it's a favorite for game-playing. Note: Color monitors cannot support 80-column
screens, most desirable for word processing. (Not that it's easy to find
an 80-column enhancement for Atari today.)
$399. NEC Home Electronics, 1401 EstesAvenue, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007. (312) 228-5900.
UNIQUE
U.S. DOUBLER
A simple hardware modification for your 1050 disk drive that gives
you true double density. Supports the ultra-fast I/O features of SpartaDOS
disk operating system.
$69.95 including SpartaDOS. lCD Inc., 1220 Rock Street, Suite 310, Rockford, 1L61 101. (815) 229-2999.
OMNIMON
Unravel the secrets of top programmers. This easy hardware modification
provides a resident machine language monitor and lets you examine commercial
programs in memory while they run.
$69.95. CDY Consulting, 421 Hanbee, Richardson, TX, 75080. (214) 235-2146.
PROBURNER
This professional-quality EPROM bumer is a cartridge that plugs right
into your Atari and programs chips from its own built-in socket. It can
be used to program a wide variety of EPROM and EEPROM types. And it's easier
to use than any other bumer made for the Atari.
$149, 32K cartridge. Thompson Electronics, 7 Jackes Avenue, Suite 502, Toronto, Ontario M4T 1E3, Canada. (416) 960-1089.
C.E.A. HOME CONTROL
If you want to use your Atari to regulate a home appliance control
system, the C.E.A. hardware-software package uses a joystick port interface
to start or stop as many as four devices. A heater/ac temperature controller
is included, and the BASIC software is reprogrammable.
$89.95, 48K disk. Computer Engineering Applications, RO. Box 4878, Las Vegas NV 89127.
COMPETITION PRO 5000
Designed to bring an "arcade feel" to the Atari, the Model 5000 joystick
features a microswitch assembly for greater accuracy and higher scores.
Comes with a five-foot cord and unconditional two-year warranty.
$17.95. Competition Pro, 2609 Greenleaf Avenue, Elk Grove, IL 60007.(312) 228-1810.
COMPUTEREYES
As soon as a review copy of this slow-scan video acquisition system
arrived at Antic, we set up a video camera and started digitizing pictures
of everyone who would sit still long enough. Then we printed out the images
with Print Shop, tinted, retouched and defaced them with touch tablets,
and even sent them out on CompuServe. You can also capture images from
videotape recorder, video disk or live TV. Includes interface module and
software on disk. For $399.95, the package includes a basic black &
white video-camera.
$129.95, 48K disk. Digital Vision, Inc., 14 Oak Street, Suite 2, Needham, MA 02192. (617) 444-0940.
S.A.M.
(Software Automatic Mouth)
S.A.M. is a voice synthesizer on a disk that sounds just about as good
as the much more expensive "black box" voicemakers. S.A.M. is fun, flexible,
easy to use and has a good manual. You can add speech to your own BASIC
and machine language programs. S.A.M. uses only 9K memory and works with
all Atari computers.
$59.95, 16K disk. Tronlx, 8295 5. La Cienega Boulevard, Inglewood, CA 90301. (213) 215-0529.
INTERFACES, BUFFERS
ATARI 850
The Atari 850 Interface Module is a versatile tool that converts data
from your computer into formats compatible with the RS232 serial standard
used by most modems, and also for the Centronics parallel standard used
by most printers. It's not easy finding an 850 at your local computer store.
See August, 1985 Antic for a list of dealers.
$87-$1 60, depending on dealer. Atari Corp., 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086, (408) 745-2000.
QUADRAM MICROFAZER
Quadram's Microfazer is a printer buffer that eliminates those frustrating
pauses as you wait for your 25-page masterpiece to print. The Microfazer
comes in different buffer sizes. Three are listed below When choosing,
figure on 2K per printed page.
$179/8K, $299/64K. Quadram Corporation, 4355 International Boulevard, Norcross, GA 30093, (404) 923-6666.
INTERFAST-1
The Interfast-l is a programmable printer interface with 4K RAM for
use as a printer buffer or as storage for custom character sets. A software
utilities disk is included to allow for downloading character sets into
the Interfast-l and using those character sets with your word processing
program and graphics printer. It provides a Centronics parallel interface.
Used as a buffer, it stores about two text pages.
$129.95. Advanced Interface Devices, P0 Box 2188, Melbourne, FL 32901. (305) 242-2772.
MODEMS
ATARI 1030
What more can we say about the inexpensive and widely used 300 baud
Atari 1030 modem? All you need is 16K and a telephone line-you can telecommunicate
without even an interface or a disk drive. However, disk communications
software is included, along with a free introductory subscription to CompuServe
and Dow Jones Retrieval Service.
$59.95. Add-On Systems, 524 Second Street, San Francisco, CA 94107.
HAYES SMARTMODEM 1200/2400
Hayes is the industry standard. The Smart-modem 1200 ($599) offers
solid construction, direct connection, automatically adjusted baud rate,
internal speaker, auto-answering and the best documentation around. You
can use it with radioteletype, as a data line monitor, as a local network
or you can configure internal DIP switches to suit your needs. The 2400
($899) offers all of these features plus 2400 baud, compatibility with
Bell 103, 212A and CCITTB.22 communication standards, auto answer, autodial,
non-volatile memory, and is software controlled, so no extemal switches
are needed.
Hayes Microcomputer Products, 5835 Peachtree Corner East, Norcross, GA 30092. (404) 449-8791.
SIGNALMAN EXPRESS
Anchor Automation is replacing the MKXII, with the Express, a competitively
priced ($399), 99.9% Hayes compatible with more features for the same price.
This direct-connect, multiple-baud modem has autodial, auto answer, 18
programmable set registers, eight LED lights, eight dip switches, speaker
with volume control and a memory chip that stores 10 phone numbers. You'll
need an RS-232-to-DB cable (about $22) to connect to the 850 interface.
Two year warranty.
$399. Anchor Automation, 6913 Valjean Avenue. Van Nuys, CA 91406. (818) 997-7758.
ONLINE SERVICES
Hourly rates and membership fees for commercial online services are subject to change. Contact individual companies for latest information. You'll need a modem to hook up.
COMPUSERVE
The leading online information service, Compuserve offers stock quotes,
news, weather, airline reservations, games, recipes, shopping and special
interest groups on dozens of topics-including the ANTIC ONLINE edition
and an active SIG * Atari with hundreds of downloadable programs. Evening
and weekend rates are $6 per hour for 300 baud and $7.75 for 1200 baud.
$40 entry fee. Highly addictive.
500 Arlington Center, Box 20212, Columbus, OH 43220. (800) 848-8199; in Ohio (614) 457-8600.
DELPHI
Delphi offers news, electronic mail, and searchable databases. But
it specializes in user-created files, which may be either public or private.
Seek expert advice, confer in realtime with other users, and look for SIG*Atari
and ANTIC ONLINE too. Lifetime registration is regularly $49.95, which
includes two free evening hours. Evening and weekend rate is $6 an hour
for 300 or 1200 baud.
3 Blackstone Street, Cambridge, MA 02139. (800) 544-4005; in MA (617) 491-3393.
THE SOURCE
Now this strong general-information online network also offers speedy
2400 baud premium service. Membership fee of $49.95 includes unlimited
free time to learn the system in an online tutorial. Latest pricing is
by the minute. Evening and weekend rates per minute are: 14 cents for 300
baud, 18 cents for 1200 baud and 20 cents for 2400 baud.
1616 Anderson Road, McLean, VA 22102. (703) 734-7500.
GAMES COMPUTERS PLAY
Enter gameworld... log on and suddenly you're in a wonderland of bold,
state-of-the-art online color graphics. Your Atari's playmate is a powerful
300 megabyte minicomputer that offers spectacular interactive games, real-time
conferencing, electronic mail and public domain downloads. Requires 48K
disk drive, 1200 baud modem recommended. Evening and weekend rate is $6
an hour.
112 East Market Street, York, PA 17401. (717) 848-2660.
SOFTWARE
The software in this section runs on all 8-bit Atari computers, unless a required minimum memory size is specified in the entry. Software for the new 16-bit ST models is described in this issue's ST Section.
GRAPHICS
RAMBRANDT
RAMbrandt produces spectacular color or monochrome images in five graphics
modes. It has onscreen windowing, three text fonts, zoom, paint, animation,
rubber stamp, 128 colors onscreen at once and many additional high-powered
features. This is the only Atari graphics software you can buy that is
compatible with the inexpensive Okimate 10 color printer.
$19.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, AP157.
MICRO-PAINTER
Micro-Painter is the. original and best-known joystick drawing program
for Atari, and it set a standard format for graphics files. It uses Graphics
7 1/2, a high resolution, four-color mode. The program's drawing tools
include rubber band, fill and magnify. Just as Antic was going to
press, we learned that the manufacturer was shutting its doors. So if you
can't find Micro-Painter at a nearby store, PD Micropaint Artist
is a public domain program (Antic Catalog, PD053) that does the same job.
$34.95, 48K disk. DataSoft, 19808 Nordhoff Place, Chatsworth, CA 91311. (213)701-5161.
MICRO ILLUSTRATOR
You can't just go into the store and buy Micro Illustrator. This is
the graphics software that comes with virtually all touch tablets and light
pens made for the Atari. The easy-handling four-color drawing program features
line, circle, mirror and fill modes-and offers many styles of "brushes"
to draw with. Your finished pictures can be saved on disk in compacted
form, or in standard MicroPainter format.
ATARI TOUCH TABLET
The stylus has a built-in button controller and won't get lost because
it's attached by cable to a sturdy tablet. This is the easiest tool for
creating fine Atari graphics. But it can be tough to find. Runs powerful,
easy-to-use Micro Illustrator software (under AtariArtist brandname) in
a handy cartridge.
$59.95, 32K cartridge. Atari Corp., 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. (408) 745-2000.
KOALAPAD,
KOALA LIGHT PEN
The KoalaPad's Atari version may be hard to find in stores this Christmas.
But the manufacturer has assured us that the popular graphics tablet is
still being manufactured and supported for the Atari. Available at the
same price is the Koala Light Pen, which also uses Micro Illustrator on
disk. Call Koala's toll-free number for your nearest dealer.
$99.95 each, 48K disk. Koala Technologies, 2065 Junction Avenue, San Jose, CA 95131. (800) KOA-BEAR.
GAMES
BALLBLAZER,
RESCUE ON FRACTALUS
The long-awaited Lucasfilm arcade games are everything you would expect
in the "Star Wars" tradition. Ballblazer puts you at the controls of a
hovercraft-like Rotofoil in the year 3097 as you participate in a futuristic
soccer bout. Rescue on Fractalus puts you in the cockpit of a Valkyrie
Fighter cruising at mach 7.2. This space-age flight simulator takes you
over detailed fractal landscapes and offers 16 levels of play. From the
exquisite animation while the games are loading, to the music and the challenging
action-these games define state-of-the-art.
$40 each, 48K disk. Epyx, Inc., 1043 Kiel Court, Sunnyvale, CA 94089. (408) 745-0700.
M.U.L.E.
Colonize a planet with the "aid" of the balky Multiple Use Labor Element
robots. Food and minerals are quite limited. So, do you cooperate with
the other players (up to four) or do you double-cross them?
$22.95, 48K disk. Electronic Arts, 2755 Campus Drive, San Mateo, CA 94403. (415) 571-7171.
ODESTA CHESS
The better microcomputer chess programs, like this one, are currently
competitive with even some mainframe programs-and certainly play chess
well beyond the skill of most non-pro humans. Larry Atkin, who programmed
Odesta Chess, also helped write the ground-breaking CHESS program at Northwestern
University.
$69.95, 48K disk. Odesta Corp., 4084 Commercial Avenue, Northbrook, IL 60062. (312) 498-5615.
SPY VS. SPY
Cartoonist Antonio Prohias' black and white peak-capped secret agents
have been double-crossing each other in Mad Magazine since 1960. You and
your opponent leave traps for each other-bombs, electrified water, guns
with strings attached to the trigger-and rely on an arsenal of remedies.
Brings out the sadist in you!
$29.95, 48K disk, First Star Software, 18 E. 41 Street, New York, NY, 10017. (212) 532-4666.
LIFESPAN
Lifespan is a surrealistic collection of five games that takes you
on a kaleidoscopic journey through human existence-and gives you much to
think about afterwards. Programmer John O'Neill has been called "the Salvador
Dali of computer games.
$17.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, LS100.
GREAT CROSS COUNTRY ROAD RACE
This is the Ferrari Dino of race games. It's got variety, clever illusions,
great sounds and scenery. None of that crash-and-burn mentality here. In
this game, your opponent is time-and you'll spend lots of it losing yourself
in one of the best releases of the year.
$24.95, 48K disk. Activision, 2350 Bayshore Frontage Road, Mountain View, CA 94043. (415) 960-0410.
FLIGHT SIMULATOR II
The most advanced flight simulation program available for the Atari
puts you in the pilot's seat of a Piper Cherokee Archer. Features color
scenery of Chicago, New York, Seattle and Los Angeles, and 80 usable airports.
Remember, this is a sophisticated training program that requires learning
very precise and detailed operating instructions.
$49.95, 48K disk. Sublogic Corporation, 713 Edgebrook Drive, Champaign, IL 61820. (217) 359-8482.
TRIVIA QUEST
The big difference between this game and others of the genre is that
it incorporates trivia questions into a race around a game board (ala Trivial
Pursuit.) It's also the first trivia game to utilize the graphic and scrolling
capabilities of the Atari with first-rate graphics and animation.
$39.95, 48K disk. Royal Software, 2160W. 11th Avenue, Eugene, OR 97402. (503) 683-5361.
F-15 STRIKE EAGLE
Your first mission sends you to Libya to bomb military airfields. Launch
into aerial combat with this almost too realistic joystick-controlled computerization
of seven sky battlezones over the Mid-East and Viet Nam. You get state-of-the-art
weapons systems, computerized radar, eight supersonic guided missiles,
18 bombs and a 20 mm cannon with 1,000 rounds of ammunition.
$34.95, 48K disk. MicroProse Software, 120 Lakefront Drive, Hunt Valley, MD 21030. (301) 667-1151.
KENNEDY APPROACH
Strap on your headset and pop a few No-Doz tablets-you'll be glad when
this shift is over. This exciting air traffic controller simulation even
includes computer-generated speech. Rescue passengers from emergencies,
and control 20 different aircraft coming in from all directions to land
at the nation's busiest airports.
$34.95, 48K disk. Microprose Software, 120 Lakefront Drive, Hunt Valley, MD 21030. (301) 667-1151.
GAME SOFTWARE YOU CAN TRUST
You could walk into a store blindfolded and buy almost any Atari title from these publishers with the confidence that you now own a highly enjoyable game or application. Most of these products require 48K memory and a disk drive. Prices range from $19 to $60.
Text Adventures:
INFOCOM
Infocom is almost synonymous with critically acclaimed, slickly packaged
interactive text adventure games. Like paperback novels, they come in genres
such as science fiction, fantasy, detective mysteries and Indiana Jones-ish
thrillers. Unlike paperback novels, the lead character is you
Many Infocom games are packaged with goodies like maps,
lab reports, journals, hieroglyphic stone rubbings and truly hilarious
manuals. Our favorites are the pure fantasy worlds (Zork, Enchanter, Sorcerer)
and anything written by Steven Zeretsky (Planetfall). This year's biggest
hit was Hitchiker's Guide to the Galaxy, based on the eccentric Douglas
Adams novel.
Infocom, Inc. 55 Wheeler Street, Cambridge, MA 02138. (617) 492-1031.
Strategy War Games:
STRATEGIC SIMULATIONS INC.
In these historically accurate, complex military simulations, you can
wear the shoes of Napoleon, Eisenhower and other fabled commanders as you
lead your nation to battle.
Some of the SSI titles we reviewed enthusiastically this
year are Computer Ambush, Reforger '88, Kampfgruppe and Broadsides. Classic
introductions to the genre include Field of Fire and Eagles.
Strategic Simulations, Inc., 883 Stierlin Road, Bldg. A-200, Mountain
Viev, CA 94043. (415)
946-1200.
BRODERBUND/SYNAPSE
In 1985, one of the most successful publishers of game and applications
software joined forces with another outstanding publisher that specialized
in Atari software. Now, you can't miss with almost any Atari title from
Broderbund or Synapse.
For proof, try the addictive ladder action of Loderunner
or Pharaoh's Curse, the high-flying excitement of Choplifter or Blue Max
2001.
Broderbund/Synapse. 17 Paul Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903. (415) 479-1170.
EDUCATION
SAT PREP
Your college-bound offspring might groan when they unwrap S.A.T. preparation
software instead of a tape deck that costs just as much, but they'll thank
you for it later Computer Preparation for the SAT by Harcourt, Brace,
Jovanovich includes 3 disks and a 50-page manual. They offer a fine 469-page
book How to Prepare for the SAT (sold separately for $7.95). Krell's
College Board SAT Exam Preparation Series includes a 47-page booklet
and an intimidating set of eight double-sided disks.
$79.95, 48K disk. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich, 757 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017. (800) 543-1918.
$229.95, 48K disk. Krell Software, 1320 Stony Brook Road, Stony Brook, NY 11790. (516) 751-5139.
WIZTYPE
No more hunting and pecking as you PEEK and POKE. You'll have fast
fingers in no time, along with a laugh or two with the "Wizard of Id" comic-strip
characters as your guide. WizType is more than a typing tutor-it teaches
proper finger positioning, lets you create your own typing lessons, and
includes an amusing game.
$34.95, 48K disk. Sierra Online, P.O. Box 485, Coarsegold, CA 93614. (209) 683-6858.
DUCKS AHOY,
SEAHORSE HIDE N' SEEK
You're in Venice in a gondola and have to pick up ducks who want to
go to Lido Beach. But watch out for the hippo who upsets boats. Ducks Ahoy!,
developed by Joyce Hakansson Associates, helps young children with their
fine motor coordination and counting skills. The crisp graphics, adorable
ducks and equally cute sound effects make Ducks Ahoy! one of the years'
best.
Sea Horse Hide 'n' Seek is anotherJoyce Hakansson winner.
By manuvering a seahorse through a coral reef and away from old wrecks
and lagoon fish, this adventure program teaches kids about underwater life.
$12.95 each, 16K cartridge. Ages 3-6. CBS Software, One Fawcett Place, Greenwich, CT 06836. (203) 622-2614.
HALLEY PATROL
We can't imagine a more timely gift for the astronomy buff than Halley
Patrol. With this joystick-driven, astronomically accurate program, you
can watch the comet fly through space against a high-resolution scrolling
map. Celestial coordinates indicate the best time and location to view
the comet. Flip the disk for an educational graphic presentation on the
history of Halley.
$17.95, 48K disk. Ages 12 to adult. Antic Catalog, AP159.
SPACE BASE
A must if you own a telescope. This graphically stunning scrolling
map and space atlas offers detailed scientific data for hundreds of the
brightest stars. With its extensive documentation, the program is equivalent
to a college-level introductory astronomy class.
$19.95, 48K disk. Ages 12 to adult. Antic Catalog, AP142.
EARTH VIEWS
It's rare when educational software programs are more than just computerized
textbooks. Earthviews is a computerized atlas and adventure/trivia game
that features detailed high resolution maps and a 3-D view of earth rotating
on any axis.
$19.95, 48K disk. Ages l2 to adult. Antic Catalog, AP141.
STICKYBEAR NUMBERS
Children's book illustrator Richard Hefter's Stickybear series is lauded
by educators as an educational software classic Stickybear shows flapping
geese, waddling penguins and chugging trains in groups of one through nine,
depending upon the number key that the child presses. Children learn how
to count, add and subtract, and get a Stickybear counting book, poster
and stickers too.
$29.95, 48K disk. Ages 3-6. xerox/weekly Reader, 245 Long Hill Road, Middletown, CT 06457. (203) 347-7251.
TINK'S ADVENTURE,
TUK GOES TO TOWN,
TONK IN THE LAND OF
BUDDY-BOTS,
TINK'S SUBTRACTION FAIR
For years, writer Mercer Mayer has been delighting children (and the
Antic staff) with his funny little mechanical monsters. In Tink's Adventure,
children get a chance to learn the alphabet and the computer keyboard.
When Tuk Goes To Town, there are adventures leading to spelling and vocabulary
practice, memory building and hours of fun. Tonk in the Land of the Buddy-Bots
has six games, each with four levels of play, ensuring a fairly long game
time. Tonk's Subtraction Fair strengthens math skills as Tonk goes to a
carnival and plays five different games. The animated robots and music
will draw the whole family to the computer screen.
$34.95 each, 48K disk. Ages 4-8. Mindscape, Inc., 3444 Dundee Road, Northbrook, IL 60062. (312) 480-7667.
SPEEDREAD
Look out Evelyn Woods! This excellent, well-documented program increases
your reading speed, improves eye movement, character and word recognition,
and peripheral vision. Reading Compuserve at 1200 baud will be a piece
of cake.
$64.95, 16K disk. net Corp., 536 Weddell Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. (415) 797-9600.
COMMUNICATIONS
HOMEPAK
This package integrates word processing, a filing manager and telecommunications-ideal
for serious telecommunications users. Written by Russ Wetmore and used
by all his fellow CompuServe SIG * Atari sysops. It's worth buying just
for HomeTerm, a telecommunications program that will work with just about
any 300 or 1200 baud modem.
$49.95, 48K disk. Batteries Included, 30 Mural Street, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 1 B5, Canada. (416) 881-9941.
SMART 1030
For less than one tenth of the price of a Hayes Smartmodem, you can
use Smart 1030 software to upgrade your 1030 modem for compatibility with
the Hayes standard command set, plus additional features like autodial,
onscreen help commands and a BBS database. It also allows you to use other
popular modem programs without the hard-to-find Atari 850 Interface Module.
$19.95, 16K disk. E&B Computer Services, P.O. Box 292506, Columbus, OH, 43229.
BBS CONSTRUCTION SET
Now you can personalize your bulletin board without needing to write
programs. Create online surveys, 65,792 security levels, private email
and more. Supports 300, 1200 and 2400 baud modems.
$24.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, AP146.
CHAMELEON
If you want to log on to a mainframe from home, (or Kermit between
an XL and an ST) you need the Chameleon CRT Terminal Emulator. This invaluable
program lets your Atari act like a variety of computer terminals such as
a DEC VT-52 or IBM 3031. Wide-screen 80-column emulation, UNIX-compatible,
autodial. Supports Hayes-compatible and Atari 835/1030 modems.
$19.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, AP113.
BACKTALK
State-of-the-art telecommunications software for 300, 1200 and 2400
baud. With Backtalk your Atari can autodial other BBS's in the middle of
the night and upload or download files in any of three protocols. Extra-large
buffer supports l30XE RAMdisk. You can create unlimited macro libraries.
Written in compiled ACTION! by the programmers of Paper Clip and Synfile+.
$19.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, AP154.
LANGUAGES & TOOLS
BASIC XE
BASIC XL had long been the classiest, most powerful BASIC language
available for Atari programmers. Now new BASIC XE is here from O.S.S. to
harness the full 128K memory of the 130XE computer- yet it also works with
Atari XL computers. BASIC XE is said to run Atari BASIC programs at least
twice as fast, and it comes with an array of new statements, automated
editing features and extra utilities.
$79, cartridge plus 48K disk. Optimized Systems Software, 1221B Kentwood Avenue, San Jose, CA, 95129. (408) 446-3099.
INSTEDIT
Create custom character sets with your joystick. Build arcade-style,
high resolution game routines. Instedit has been used by more professional
Atari programmers than any other character editor. Requires Atari BASIC.
$15.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, AP117.
ACTION!
This amazingly fast and powerful language blends elements of Pascal
and C-but is much easier to program on the Atari. ACTION! contains a superior
screen editor that makes programming a joy and was the basis of the outstanding
Paper Clip word processor.
$99, 16K cartridge. Optimized Systems Software, 1221 B Kentwood Avenue, San Jose, CA 95129. (408) 446-3099.
DEEP BLUE C
C is the most widely accepted programming language for the new generation
of big-memory personal computers like the ST The Deep Blue C Compiler is
a proper subset of C, so programs written for it will run almost without
change on computers supporting the full language. Requires 48K, and a text
editor such as Word Magic.
$19.95. Antic Catalog, AP114.
KYAN PASCAL
Finally, a Pascal for the Atari that doesn't require two disk drives
and a computer science degree to use. This is a fast version with all of
the features of Standard Pascal, the teaching and programming language
widely used in colleges. Comes with a built-in editor, search and replace,
and a library of graphics routines. Compiles files directly into assembly
language.
$69.95, 64K double density disk. Kyan Software, 1850 Union Street, #183, San Francisco, CA 94123. (415) 775-2923.
MAC/65 ASSEMBLER EDITOR
If you want to program in assembly language, MAC/65 is the assembler
editor to buy. It's compatible with the Atari Assembler Editor, as long
as you don't use MAC/65's powerful extra commands. MAC/65 contains a speedy
compiler and a truly excellent debugger.
$80, 16K disk; $99, 16K cartridge. Optimized Systems Software, 1221 B Kentwood Avenue, San Jose, CA, 95129. (408) 446-3099.
MMG BASIC COMPILER
Convert your BASIC programs into binary machine language files that
will run up to 15 times faster than the original. Unlike other compilers,
MMG will also produce assembly source code which you can analyze and alter.
Choose between integer and floating point arithmetic and put your data
statements anywhere. Available in both double and single density, requires
BASIC.
$99.95, 48K disk. MMG Micro Software, P.O. Box 131, Marlboro, NJ 07746. (201)431-3472.
SHERLOCK 1050
With this disk sector editor you can customize any program in your
library on the Atari 1050 (or 810) disk drive. You don't need to be an
assembly language programmer to modify commercial software, alter programs
to easily access RAMdisks, change title screens, customize menus, even
disassemble from the disk itself. Any machine language file will reveal
its secrets to Sherlock.
$19.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, AP155.
PRINTING
PRINT WIZ
This powerful printer dump mixes text and graphics for hardcopies from
most of the popular printers. Can print sideways on the page. Includes
special handlers for popular graphics programs. Changes type size directly
from your keyboard. By the author of Kwik Dump (Antic, March 1985).
$29.95, 16K disk. Allen Macroware, P.O. Box 2205, Redondo Beach, CA 90278. (213) 376-4105.
LISTER PLUS,
PICTURE PLUS
These two utilities (sold separately) can stretch your dot-matrix printer
to its limits. Lister Plus ($19.95) among many other things, dumps any
listed file (including programs) to the printer using any custom character
set you choose. Picture Plus ($29.95) manipulates most types of picture
files, so you can save them in standard files that can be used with a BASIC
program, or dump them to the printer in any of four sizes. Requires BASIC
and 48K disk.
Non-Standard Magic, P0. Box 45, Girard, OH 44420. (216) 539-6033.
PRINTSHOP (& LIBRARIES)
Just open any Atari users group newsletter to see samples of how popular
this graphics printing program is. Virtually foolproof to operate, no wonder
Print Shop is Broderbund's best seller. Unwrap this one before Christmas.
In minutes, you'll be cranking out nifty Christmas cards, wrapping paper
and signs.
Volumes I & II of the Print Shop Library ($24.95 each)
are collections of icons, doodles and dingbats ranging from bowling pins
to safety pins. These popular illustrations feed right into your Print
Shop and pop up everywhere in newsletters, school reports, and brochures.
$49.95, 48K disk. Broderbund Software, 17 Paul Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903. (415) 479-1170.
GRAPHIC SHOP
Now you can use your graphics editing tools such as Micro-Painter,
KoalaPad or Atari Touch Tablet to create decorative icons and graphics
files for Broderbund's Print Shop graphics printing program.. We've been
using Graphics Shop at Antic to convert digitized photos taken with Computereyes
into portraits of the staff. Then we print them out with Print Shop and
place our faces on greeting cards, letterheads and other goodies to send
home to Mom.
$19.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, AP156.
WORD PROCESSING
PAPER CLIP
When we use a product day after day to produce this magazine, you know
it has the Antic Seal of Approval. We write and edit every word with Paper
Clip before transmitting the copy to our typesetter via modem. PC lives
up to the manufacturer's claim that it's a professional word processor
suitable for people who do heavy writing. Paper Clip is easy to learn,
offers a split screen with cut-and-paste between both windows, one-key
macros, readable characters with true descenders, double-column printing,
and virtually every editing feature you'd find in word processing software
at ten times the price.
$59.95, 16K disk. Batteries Included, 30 Mural Street, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 1B5 Canada. (416)881-9941.
LETTER PERFECT
Switching between modes (i.e. edit to print) as well as zipping throughout
your document is a breeze with Letter Perfect. You can move from word to
word, beginning to end of text easily. Letter Perfect lets you chain files
(but not move text from one file to another) and runs easily with a variety
of printers. It includes a spelling checker of approximately 30,000 words.
If you want a larger dictionary to which you can add words, you can add
UK's Spell Perfect ($79.95).
$99.95, 32K disk. UK Enterprises, 7852 Big Bend Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63119. (314) 962-1855.
ATARI WRITER+
As Antic goes to press, we've only seen an early beta test copy of
AtariWriter+. But if It gets to the stores in time for the holidays you
should check it out- especially if you're a fan of Atari's original word
processing software. Atariwriter + promises a built-in mail merge and spelling
checker, plus full use of the l30XE's extra memory for file space
$49.95 approximately. Atari Corp., 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086. (408) 745-2000.
WORD MAGIC
This new, enhanced version of the Word Magic word processor has pop-up
menus, online help files,- cut and paste features, and a variety of type
fonts-all for under $20. Use a joystick or trakball to move the cursor
and scan files rapidly. Comes with Graphic Magic bonus program that
mixes your own graphics with text for printing on an Epson or Gemini. Now
uses extra memory in l30XE computer.
$19.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, AP130.
SPELL MAGIC
Daniel Webster would roll over in his grave if he could see this 34,000-word
integrated computerized dictionary. Run your Word Magic (or other
AtariWriter-compatible) documents through this spelling checker and watch
mistakes disappear. Spell Magic has online help, online menus, and lets
you add your own dictionaries of up to 10,000 words each.
$19.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, AP144.
$24.95 for all three-Spell Magic, Word Magic and Graphic Magic.
PRODUCTIVITY
SYNCALC,
SYNFILE+
This spreadsheet and database are the keystones of the best integrated
(file-compatible) productivity applications series for the Atari currently
available. Each program in the series is powerful, yet easy to operate
with pop-up menus and simple commands. SynCalc is the best Atari spreadsheet
on the market, and it's compatible with VisiCalc files. SynFile + is a
powerful database system, but under hard use it reveals some bugs and has
inadequate report writing capacity. Also in the series: Syntrend,
a combined graphing and statistical program; SynStock, which tracks
and displays charts of your stock market holdings.
$49.95 each, 48K disk. Synapse (Broderbund) Software, 17 Paul Drive, San Rafael, CA 94903. (415) 479-1170.
HOME ACCOUNTANT
This popular package has been around a while on many different computers.
Menu-driven Home Accountant tracks five checkbooks, displays graphs, makes
balance sheets and forecasts. It can even print checks, a highly useful
feature for professionals and small businesses that don't need a full accounting
system. Compatible with Continental's annual Tax Advantage ($69.95), which
does year-round tax planning and then prints out your Form 1040 line-by-line.
$74.95, 48K disk. Continental Software, 671 Valjean Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 90045. (800) 421-3930.
CREATIVE PROCESS
Creative Process is the Atari's first outline processor like "Think
Tank." It's a conceptual organizing tool for making sense out of your busy
agenda. This calendar, project manager, and time manager will make it easier
for you to be more productive and creative.
$19.95, 48K disk. APX AP151.
HOMECARD
HomeCard moves you closer to a paper-less desk. This computerized rolodex
file brings your Christmas list, mailing list, personnel files and little
black book into the electronic age. Create and print custorn labels, even
autodial phone numbers with an Atari 1030 or Hayes-compatible modem. From
Sparky Starks and Russ Wet-more, who programmed HomePak.
$24.95, 48K disk. Antic Catalog, RW100.
PEACHTREE ACCOUNTING
Finally, there is a genuine business accounting package for the Atari
that handles most needs of a professional office, retailer, or other small
company. Peachtree's Back To Basics accounting system was successful on
the IBM and Macintosh before the Atari version came out. Includes Accounts
Payable, Accounts Receivable and General Ledger modules. Prints attractive
reports, address labels, even computer-issued checks. Computes finance
charges, produces customer master lists and sales journals.
$195, 48K, two disk drives required. Peachtree Software, 3445 Peachtree Road N.E., Atlanta, GA 30326. (404) 239-3165.
DATA PERFECT
This powerful database comes from the same company that makes the Letter
Perfect word processor-so it's no surprise that the two programs are compatible.
While not as easy to learn as Synfile +, Data Perfect has better report
writing and global change capability. Works best with two disk drives.
$99.95, 32K disk. UK Enterprises, 7852 Big Bend Boulevard, St. Louis,
MO 63119. (314) 962-1855.