Joe's OS/2 Tips - Number 8: Difference between revisions

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{{JoesTips}}
{{JoesTips}}


Introduction
==Introduction==
 
Well it's been nearly 2 months since the last tips, and I had better get something down in electrons. Thanks to Rick Berkley in the USA, my tips will be finding their way onto many OS/2 FTP sites around the world. Shortly I'll be joining Internet, therefore I will respond more directly to queries.
Well it's been nearly 2 months since the last tips, and I had better get something down in electrons. Thanks to Rick Berkley in the USA, my tips will be finding their way onto many OS/2 FTP sites around the world. Shortly I'll be joining Internet, therefore I will respond more directly to queries.


What's in this Issue.
What's in this Issue.
*File Management Utilities.
*File Management Utilities.
**DirMan
**DirMan
Line 17: Line 15:
*Quickie notes on the March Beta.
*Quickie notes on the March Beta.
*OS/2 Comms Solutions.
*OS/2 Comms Solutions.


==THE GREAT FILE UTILITY ROUND UP==
==THE GREAT FILE UTILITY ROUND UP==
Line 23: Line 20:


===DirMan ver 2.01f===
===DirMan ver 2.01f===
This is a very nice PM-only directory manager, with many features.
This is a very nice PM-only directory manager, with many features. All functions are accessible via simple icons or pull down menus. DirMan uses the same principles as OS/2's desktop, using the mouse. In that the left button is for action and the right button is for option (this is the right-handed mouse setup), hence everything in DirMan functions as expected.
All functions are accessible via simple icons or pull down menus.
DirMan uses the same principles as OS/2's desktop, using the mouse. In
that the left button is for action and the right button is for option (this
is the right-handed mouse setup), hence everything in DirMan functions
as expected.


Unlike a lot of older OS/2 applications, DirMan can handle Long File
Unlike a lot of older OS/2 applications, DirMan can handle Long File names. Hence this is a very useful feature on HPFS drives, especially if you have directories like "g:\joes OS!2 Tips\Edition eight."
names. Hence this is a very useful feature on HPFS drives, especially
if you have directories like "g:\joes OS!2 Tips\Edition eight."


EG, Double Click on a program and DirMan will then execute it.
EG, Double Click on a program and DirMan will then execute it. Special note, any programs you start will remain working until you actually go to those apps and close them down, even if you were to exit DirMan (Unlike previous versions of DirMan, they would also be closed), this is a nice functional idea. This could also be extended to be a nice front end menu-like program for OS/2.
Special note, any programs you start will remain working until you
actually go to those apps and close them down, even if you were to
exit DirMan (Unlike previous versions of DirMan, they would also be
closed), this is a nice functional idea. This could also be extended
to be a nice front end menu-like program for OS/2.


DirMan has many customizable features, from choosing which text-editor
DirMan has many customizable features, from choosing which text-editor you prefer to use, to using files from within archives. With its easy to use macros, you can easily add many functions to DirMan.
you prefer to use, to using files from within archives. With it's easy to
use macros, you can easily add many functions to DirMan.


For instance, I like to use the Multi-threaded LIST utility to view
For instance, I like to use the Multi-threaded LIST utility to view text files.
text files.


To Install this Option, take the following steps.
To Install this Option, take the following steps.
    1. With Mouse, select SETUP.
# With Mouse, select SETUP.
    2. Then Macros.
# Then Macros.
    3. Then Push the ADD button.
# Then Push the ADD button.
    4. Enter in LIST, as the description.
# Enter in LIST, as the description.
    5. Enter in LIST /, at the macro...NB My List is in my PATH.
# Enter in LIST /, at the macro...NB My List is in my PATH.
    6. Select whichever screen mode you prefer.
# Select whichever screen mode you prefer.
    7. Select Auto Close (same as OS/2 Program folder option.)
# Select Auto Close (same as OS/2 Program folder option.)
    8. Press the OK button.
# Press the OK button.
    9. Press the Cancel Button (Suggestion to Author, make an OK
# Press the Cancel Button (Suggestion to Author, make an OK button).
    button).
At this stage we now have the list function active. Try it, go to your OS/2 config.sys file, tag it with left mouse button, then press your right mouse button (to pull-down the Macro menu) and then select LIST. Then presto, list should now be listing your config.sys.
 
At this stage we now have the list function active. Try it, go to your
Os/2 config.sys file, tag it with left mouse button, then press your
right mouse button (to pull-down the Macro menu) and then select LIST.
Then presto, list should now be listing your config.sys.


I should point out that the / (of LIST /) is a special flag which
I should point out that the / (of LIST /) is a special flag which defines a full path name and filename. There are other options for the macros, but in the style of OS/2, just press F1 for extended help on these extra flags (As I am not writing the manual).
defines a full path name and filename. There are other options for the
macros, but in the style of OS/2, just press F1 for extended help on
these extra flags (As I am not writing the manual).


All the colours and fonts are changeable either permanently via the
All the colours and fonts are changeable either permanently via the OPTIONS pull down menu, or temporarily with OS/2 Font and Colour Palettes. The latter option is nice, but I wish the changes made by OS/2 Palettes would be saved, Maybe this will be in future releases.
OPTIONS pull down menu, or temporarily with OS/2 Font and Colour Palettes.
The later option is nice, but I wish the changes made by OS/2 Palettes
would be saved, Maybe this will be in future releases.


===FILE COMMANDO ver 2.0===
===FILE COMMANDO ver 2.0===
This is a very fast text based directory manager. It's best feature
This is a very fast text based directory manager. Its best feature is its ability to display 2 separate directories, this does allow quick tagging, copying or moving functions between directories.
is it's ability to display 2 separate directories, this does allow quick
tagging, copying or moving functions between directories.


File Commando (FC) uses a text INI file to obtain all the necessary
File Commando (FC) uses a text INI file to obtain all the necessary options. You can configure what text file viewer to use, to what program to run when viewing/running a file.
options. You can configure what text file viewer to use, to what program
to run when viewing/running a file.


With this kind of simple setup, you can specify that all GIF's
With this kind of simple setup, you can specify that all GIFs should be viewed by VPic, and that all INF files should be viewed by OS/2's VIEW command, or that your LZH archives should be listed with LH32.
should be viewed by VPic, and that all INF files should be viewed by
OS/2's VIEW command, or that your LZH archives should be listed with
LH32.


FC can also handle long file names.
FC can also handle long file names.


This program is also executable from an OS/2 boot-disk. Hence it
This program is also executable from an OS/2 boot-disk. Hence it is ideally suited to navigating around your hard drive, to handle things like DLL upgrading or INI backups/restores. I like this application because it's fast and small.
is ideally suited to navigating around your hard drive, to handle
things like DLL upgrading or INI backups/restores. I like this
application because it's fast and small.


===FILEJET===
===FILEJET===
Is another Text based application with many features. Unfortunately,
Is another Text based application with many features. Unfortunately, it's crippled via long delays with sign-on screens etc, but then again it does make you register it, if you like it.
it's crippled via long delays with sign-on screens etc, but then again
it does make you register it, if you like it.


FileJet, to me, is too complex for new users. The screen is full of
FileJet, to me, is too complex for new users. The screen is full of different key combinations, but if you like Xtree you may feel at home as its layout is similar.
different key combinations, but if you like Xtree you may feel at home
as it's layout is similar.


FileJet comes with a DOS version which is identical, except that it
FileJet comes with a DOS version which is identical, except that it can't access long file names, as expected under DOS.
can't access long file names, as expected under DOS.


===MrFILEPM===
===MrFILEPM===
This is a program designed by an IBM employee, who prefers speed
This is a program designed by an IBM employee, who prefers speed rather than OS/2 Drive's Object. It's very fast in accessing directory structures, but it has some limitations. It's customizing features are very basic, and would require more work than DirMan's Macros. Also
rather than OS/2 Drive's Object. It's very fast in accessing directory
MrFILEPM is a space hungry beast, and when compared to DirMan's space requirements (40k less) and features, I'd have to choose DirMan any day.
structures, but it has some limitations. It's customizing features are
very basic, and would require more work than DirMan's Macros. Also
MrFILEPM is a space hungry beast, and when compared to DirMan's space
requirements (40k less) and features, I'd have to choose DirMan any day.


Only advantage is that this is free software.
Only advantage is that this is free software.


===SUMMARY===
===SUMMARY===
If you like Text based apps, and lets face it, we all came from some
If you like Text based apps, and lets face it, we all came from some form of Text based system, File Commando is the hackers choice.
form of Text based system, File Commando is the hackers choice.


Otherwise, for everyday use DirMan is probably the best on offer, for
Otherwise, for everyday use DirMan is probably the best on offer, for a easy to use interface and it's advanced macro support.
a easy to use interface and it's advanced macro support.


FileJet may be of use for X-Tree Gold lovers and people who need to work
FileJet may be of use for X-Tree Gold lovers and people who need to work in both DOS and OS/2.
in both DOS and OS/2.


MrFilePm is probably only a first release version, but for programmers
MrFilePm is probably only a first release version, but for programmers it may be an answer for a fast and efficient pm file manager.
it may be an answer for a fast and efficient pm file manager.


==ADDING MENU OPTIONS TO YOUR POP-UP WPS MENUS==
==ADDING MENU OPTIONS TO YOUR POP-UP WPS MENUS==
The following steps work on most OBJECTS.
The following steps work on most OBJECTS.


    This example is based on the Desktop Folder settings on the same
This example is based on the Desktop Folder settings on the same menu that you select Shut-down, I am going to add in DirMan.
    menu that you select Shut-down, I am going to add in DirMan.
# On the Desktop, Click with right mouse button.
# Select Open [Arrow], then Settings.
# On the Notepad, select the MENU page / Chapter.
# Make sure You have got the "Primary Pop-up Menu" highlighted, if not, use the mouse's left button.
# Now go down to the 2nd (beside the empty (maybe, depending on your setup) text box) "CREATE ANOTHER" and click on it.
# Now Type in the title you'd wish to have on the menu. In my case 'Dir Manager'.
# Go down to the Name field, and type in the full path and file name to DirMan.<br/>OR<br/>Use the Find Program Option. Special Note, tell the locate folder the object you are after is a program file, otherwise the find will return no results.
# Press OK.
# Close the WPS Folder Notepad.
At this stage, press the right mouse button, and you should notice now that at the bottom of the menu, Dir Manager (Or whatever you called it). Simply click on this option, and up comes DirMan.


    1. On the Desktop, Click with right mouse button.
You can also add things like an Os/2 CMD line and other useful options. One tip, if you make your usual everyday programs part of this menu, you'll have less icons on your desktop, plus it's harder to accidentally delete your menu options.
    2. Select Open [Arrow], then Settings.
    3. On the Notepad, select the MENU page / Chapter.
    4. Make sure You have got the "Primary Pop-up Menu" highlighted,
      if not, use the mouse's left button.
    5. Now go down to the 2nd (beside the empty (maybe, depending on
      your setup) text box) "CREATE ANOTHER" and click on it.
    6. Now Type in the title you'd wish to have on the menu.
      In my case 'Dir Manager'.
    7. Go down to the Name field, and type in the full path and file
      name to DirMan.
OR  7. Use the Find Program Option.  Special Note, tell the locate
      folder the object you are after is a program file, otherwise
      the find will return no results.
    8. Press OK.
    9. Close the WPS Folder Notepad.
 
    At this stage, press the right mouse button, and you should notice
    now that at the bottom of the menu, Dir Manager (Or whatever you
    called it).  Simply click on this option, and up comes DirMan.
 
    You can also add things like an Os/2 CMD line and other useful
    options. One tip, if you make your usual everyday programs part of
    this menu, you'll have less icons on your desktop, plus it's harder
    to accidentally delete your menu options.


==COMPRESSION WITH INFOZip's ZIP==
==COMPRESSION WITH INFOZip's ZIP==
 
This is a very interesting program, in that ZIP/UNZIP combo has all the features of PKWares 2.04g plus it can handle long file names and extended attributes. Also, in many cases, can compress better than PKware's zip. The main advantage is that it is an OS/2 program and has (to my knowledge) no known bugs.
    This is a very interesting program, in that ZIP/UNZIP combo has all
    the features of PKWares 2.04g plus it can handle long file names and
    extended attributes. Also, in many cases, can compress better than
    PKware's zip. The main advantage is that it is an OS/2 program
    and has (to my knowledge) no known bugs.


==More on HPFS and FAT usage? When? Why? Access ability?==
==More on HPFS and FAT usage? When? Why? Access ability?==
Recently I've been getting asked if I should use HPFS or not.


    Recently I've been getting asked if I should use HPFS or not.
The answer is hard, as some people have ideal hardware platforms and others have lesser systems. So I have decided to give a few guidelines, many of which are in OS/2's readme file normally found on disk 7 (Werid stuff, don't ask me why IBM does it this way, since most problems in installing, are in the first 5 disks! And no one thinks to look past the first 2 disks for a readme file, I didn't first time round).
 
    The answer is hard, as some people have ideal hardware platforms
    and others have lesser systems. So I have decided to give a few
    guidelines, many of which are in OS/2's readme file normally found
    on disk 7 (Werid stuff, don't ask me why IBM does it this way, since
    most problems in installing, are in the first 5 disks! And no one
    thinks to look past the first 2 disks for a readme file, I didn't
    first time round).
 
    Deciding Issues.
 
    CPU type
      386SX-25 (and 386DX-20) and below - you're better with FAT, as FAT
                                          will use less CPU time.
      386SX-33 and above - Depending on system RAM, and partition size
                            go for HPFS. READ ON!
 
    SYSTEM MEMORY
      6 meg or Less - FAT, as HPFS requires a lot of physical ram, and
                      you will adversely affect your system's performance.
 
      8 meg or More - Go for HPFS, unless your running a low speed CPU.
                      LOOK ABOVE.
 
    PARTITION SIZES
      30 MEG or less - IBM feels that HPFS advantages will only come
                        into play with larger partition sizes.
 
      NB there's is some discussion about this, and as to whether or not
      the minimum should be higher. For interest sake, I run my BBS
      software  and message base on a 30 meg HPFS partition, with no
      noticeable performance problems.  So I believe the minimum to be
      30 Meg.
 
      30 meg or More - If you have enough RAM and a powerful enough
                        CPU, got for HPFS.


    WHY HPFS?
===Deciding Issues===
;CPU type
:386SX-25 (and 386DX-20) and below - you're better with FAT, as FAT will use less CPU time.
:386SX-33 and above - Depending on system RAM, and partition size go for HPFS. READ ON!
;SYSTEM MEMORY
:6 meg or Less - FAT, as HPFS requires a lot of physical ram, and you will adversely affect your system's performance.
:8 meg or More - Go for HPFS, unless your running a low speed CPU. LOOK ABOVE.
;PARTITION SIZES
:30 MEG or less - IBM feels that HPFS advantages will only come into play with larger partition sizes.
:NB there's is some discussion about this, and as to whether or not the minimum should be higher. For interest sake, I run my BBS software and message base on a 30 meg HPFS partition, with no noticeable performance problems. So I believe the minimum to be 30 Meg.
:30 meg or More - If you have enough RAM and a powerful enough CPU, got for HPFS.
;WHY HPFS?
This is another question worth further thought. Many DOS programs and OS/2 Applications will be much faster on HPFS than normal FAT, since the caching of HPFS partitions is far superior.


    This is another question worth further thought. Many DOS
The HPFS File System tries to keep fragmentation to a minimum by placing files into available hard drive real estate, so that it won't casue the program to be split up. Many OS/2 programs, can be written to request X amount of Hard drive space and then the HPFS File System will
    programs and OS/2 Applications will be much faster on HPFS than
attempt to find, on it's partition, X amount of unused space. Hence Fragmentation is minimal.
    normal FAT, since the caching of HPFS partitions is far superior.


    The HPFS File System tries to keep fragmentation to a minimum by
TIP. To defragment a partition (HPFS) move your files from that partition to another, or floppies, then copy them back again. This way the HPFS file system will then be able to correctly write, with no fragmentation, your files.
    placing files into available hard drive real estate, so that it won't
    casue the program to be split up.  Many OS/2 programs, can be written to
    request X amount of Hard drive space and then the HPFS File System will
    attempt to find, on it's partition, X amount of unused space.  Hence
    Fragmentation is minimal.


    TIP.  To defragment a partition (HPFS) move your files from that
;ACCESS ABILITY?
    partition to another, or floppies, then copy them back again.  This
If your running a small hard drive and boot manager to allow you to boot DOS, it's advisable to make all your partitions FAT, so that you can access all your drive space from DOS. (also, partition your drive accordingly, I've discussed this in an earlier edition).
    way the HPFS file system will then be able to correctly write, with
    no fragmentation, your files.
 
    ACCESS ABILITY?
 
    If your running a small hard drive and boot manager to allow you to
    boot DOS, it's advisable to make all your partitions FAT, so that
    you can access all your drive space from DOS. (also, partition your
    drive accordingly, I've discussed this in an earlier edition).


==Quickie notes on the March Beta==
==Quickie notes on the March Beta==
 
Well, as normal, I couldn't resist to make a few short comments about the current beta, unfortunately I'm bound by a non-disclosure contract, so the details will have to wait......but here are a few quick tip-bits.
    Well, as normal, I couldn't resist to make a few short comments
* WinOS/2 is reported to be faster than Windows 3.1 in all functions and now can be run in enhanced mode. Me being Software Racist, won't windows unless someone pays me ;-)
    about the current beta, unfortunately I'm bound by a non-disclosure
* INI files have been upgraded for speedier access.
    contract, so the details will have to wait......but here are a few
* Has a good comms driver. (unusual for IBM ;-) sorry)
    quick tip-bits.
*Runs more dos games, straight out of the box. This is from a friend, I have no HDD space for Games.... ;-)
 
*More print drivers.
    - WinOS/2 is reported to be faster than Windows 3.1 in all functions
*More video drivers.
      and now can be run in enhanced mode. Me being Software Racist,
*More Sound Card drivers.
      won't windows unless someone pays me ;-)
*Comes with MMPM/2
 
*Generally faster all round.
    - INI files have been upgraded for speedier access.
*Most, if not all Bugs from December's Beta have been squashed.
 
Has this wet you mouth yet? BTW I recommend people who are running GA, to buy safety belts for your mouse and chair, as your not going to believe your eyes.
    - Has a good comms driver. (unusual for IBM ;-) sorry)
 
    - Runs more dos games, straight out of the box. This is from a
      friend, I have no HDD space for Games.... ;-)
 
    - More print drivers.
 
    - More video drivers.
 
    - More Sound Card drivers.
 
    - Comes with MMPM/2
 
    - Generally faster all round.
 
    - Most, if not all Bugs from December's Beta have been squashed.
 
    Has this wet you mouth yet? BTW I recommend people who are running
    GA, to buy safety belts for your mouse and chair, as your not going
    to believe your eyes.


==OS/2 Comms Solutions==
==OS/2 Comms Solutions==
I am glad that Ray Gwinn has gone OS/2, as he (and friends) alone have gone out and produced a BRILLIANT coms driver for OS/2. Even IBM likes it, because until the March Beta, hardly anyone who ran serious high speed coms could rely on OS/2's COM.SYS/VCOM.SYS drivers.


    I am glad that Ray Gwinn has gone OS/2, as he (and friends) alone
===Where COM.SYS/VCOM.SYS fails.===
have gone out and produced a BRILLIANT coms driver for OS/2.  Even IBM
Both of OS/2's comms drivers are ideal if you don't wish to push your com ports to the limits as they can't handle the high speeds required/liked by people like myself...e.g. most of us OS/2 Sysops don't like getting 1550CPS rates, when you should be able to get 1650+CPS rates out of a v32Bis modem. Nor do we like having continuous CRC failures, or data overruns caused by either faulty or slow CTS/RTS handshaking.
likes it, because until the March Beta, hardly anyone who ran serious
high speed coms could rely on OS/2's COM.SYS/VCOM.SYS drivers.
 
    Where COM.SYS/VCOM.SYS fails.
 
    Both of OS/2's comms drivers are ideal if you don't wish to push your
    com ports to the limits as they can't handle the high speeds
    required/liked by people like myself...eg most of us OS/2 Sysops
    don't like getting 1550CPS rates, when you should be able to get
    1650+CPS rates out of a v32Bis modem. Nor do we like having continuous
    CRC failures, or data overruns caused by either faulty or slow CTS/RTS
    handshaking.
 
    DOS users could not achieve speeds greater than 9600 BPS.
 
    Windows, well it was worse.
 
    Where COM.SYS/VCOM.SYS worked.


    Slow coms, OS/2 succeeds nicely, especially if there was no
===DOS users could not achieve speeds greater than 9600 BPS.===
    requirements for CTS/RTS handshaking.
Windows, well it was worse.


    Where SIO/VSIO/VX00.sys Works.
===Where COM.SYS/VCOM.SYS worked.===
Slow coms, OS/2 succeeds nicely, especially if there were no requirements for CTS/RTS handshaking.


    As of version 58H, Ray Gwinn has included FOSSIL support directly
===Where SIO/VSIO/VX00.sys Works===
    in his DOS coms drivers, hence many of the DOS BBS packages (DOORS
As of version 58H, Ray Gwinn has included FOSSIL support directly in his DOS coms drivers, hence many of the DOS BBS packages (DOORS etc) will now work without having to worry about what OS/2 wants to do. Ray's drivers allows me to punch 1700cps through my modem in
    etc) will now work without having to worry about what OS/2 wants to
both directions, whereas the COM.SYS would be hard pushed even to get 1550 CPS.
    do. Ray's drivers allows me to punch 1700cps through my modem in
    both directions, whereas the COM.SYS would be hard pushed even to
    get 1550 CPS.


    The DOS support is FANTASTIC, in that it's quite easy to obtain
The DOS support is FANTASTIC, in that it's quite easy to obtain similar results under a DOS comms package, but you then face the problem of having a slower system. As always, Use an OS/2 Comms package, you will be better off.
    similar results under a DOS comms package, but you then face the
    problem of having a slower system. As always, Use an OS/2 Comms
    package, you will be better off.


    Where SIO/VSIO/VX00.SYS fails.
===Where SIO/VSIO/VX00.SYS fails===
Ray's coms drivers have one small problem, some of the older OS/2 apps are written in mind to use COM.SYS, which has some unusual time critical areas which Ray's versions don't have. Hence this causes problems...TE/2 doesn't really like SIO.SYS, in that it creates CRCs etc, and suffers odd slow-downs...(at least in earlier versions of SIO).....


    Ray's coms drivers have one small problem, some of the older OS/2
THEREFORE, I recommend Ray's COM Alternatives, it's a ideal performance booster for all your comms work.
    apps are written in mind to use COM.SYS, which has some unusual time
    critial areas which Ray's versions don't have.  Hence this casues
    problems...TE/2 doesn't really like SIO.SYS, in that it creates CRCs
    etc, and suffers odd slow downs...(at least in earlier versions of
    SIO).....
 
    THEREFORE, I recommend Ray's COM Alternatives, it's a ideal
    performance booster for all your comms work.


==THE END==
==THE END==
Well unfortunately Borland's C/C++ OS/2 compiler didn't arrive in time to be reviewed, but hopefully I will have some time in the future to do a review. Also, I am expecting to have several Accelerator Video cards to look at running under OS/2. SOFTDATE.TXT wasn't Upgraded this time, as I have not got the time spare to bring it up to date.....Any Takers?


Well unfortunately Borland's C/C++ OS/2 compiler didn't arrive in time to be
BTW, Please excuse any spelling typos, or bad grammar, as I am being pushed for time. Anyone want to do a few Uni Assignments, boring things really, programming under UNIX or worse Macs (Yuck).
reviewed, but hopefully I will have some time in the future to do a
review. Also, I am expecting to have several Accelerator Video cards to
look at running under OS/2.  SOFTDATE.TXT wasn't Upgraded this time, as
I have not got the time spare to bring it up to date.....Any Takers?
 
BTW, Please excuse any spelling typos, or bad grammar, as I am being pushed
for time. Anyone want to do a few Uni Assignments, boring things
really, programming under UNIX or worse Macs (Yuck).
 
If you wish to contact me, about various topics I have covered, or if
you have suggestions, the easy method is via a message in one of the
following mail networks in their OS/2 area.


WORLDNET             61:6700/1
If you wish to contact me, about various topics I have covered, or if you have suggestions, the easy method is via a message in one of the following mail networks in their OS/2 area.
FIDONET             3:640/830
WORLDNET       61:6700/1
INTERNET             s303842@cello.cs.uq.oz.au
FIDONET         3:640/830
  Only a Temporary address, and a lot of the times the University of
INTERNET       s303842@cello.cs.uq.oz.au
  Queensland's server is down and hence mail has a good chance of being
Only a Temporary address, and a lot of the times the University of Queensland's server is down and hence mail has a good chance of being bounced back to you.
  bounced back to you.


Or via SNAIL MAIL
Or via SNAIL MAIL
 
Joe's OS/2 Tips
Joe's OS/2 Tips
540 Johnson Road
540 Johnson Road
Forestdale, QLD, Australia, 4118.
Forestdale, QLD, Australia, 4118.
 
 
Or via the BBS
Or via the BBS
 
+61-7-800-3521
+61-7-800-3521
Hours 0700-0215 Australian Eastern Standard Time
Hours 0700-0215 Australian Eastern Standard Time
1200-14.4k baud rates.
1200-14.4k baud rates.
 
Or Via VOICE
Or Via VOICE
 
+61-7-800-4447
+61-7-800-4447
Most times I am around the phone, but the answering machine will take care of you otherwise. Sorry, I can't afford to return an international call.
 
Most times I am around the phone, but the answering machine will take
care of you otherwise. Sorry, I can't afford to return an international
call.

Latest revision as of 02:18, 23 May 2023

Joe's OS/2 Tips
  1. Number 1
  2. Number 2
  3. Number 3
  4. Number 4
    1. Catalog - 1992-10-03
  5. Number 5
    1. Catalog - 1992-11-29
  6. Number 6
    1. Catalog - 1993-01-01
  7. Number 7
    1. Catalog - 1993-02-07
  8. Number 8

Introduction

Well it's been nearly 2 months since the last tips, and I had better get something down in electrons. Thanks to Rick Berkley in the USA, my tips will be finding their way onto many OS/2 FTP sites around the world. Shortly I'll be joining Internet, therefore I will respond more directly to queries.

What's in this Issue.

  • File Management Utilities.
    • DirMan
    • File Commando
    • FileJet
    • MrFilePM
  • Adding options to your WPS pop-up menus.
  • Compression with InfoZip
  • More on HPFS and FAT usage? When? Why? Access ability?
  • Quickie notes on the March Beta.
  • OS/2 Comms Solutions.

THE GREAT FILE UTILITY ROUND UP

In the spirit of TeamOS/2, I now present a summary of features on the main shareware/freeware packages in use for file Management.

DirMan ver 2.01f

This is a very nice PM-only directory manager, with many features. All functions are accessible via simple icons or pull down menus. DirMan uses the same principles as OS/2's desktop, using the mouse. In that the left button is for action and the right button is for option (this is the right-handed mouse setup), hence everything in DirMan functions as expected.

Unlike a lot of older OS/2 applications, DirMan can handle Long File names. Hence this is a very useful feature on HPFS drives, especially if you have directories like "g:\joes OS!2 Tips\Edition eight."

EG, Double Click on a program and DirMan will then execute it. Special note, any programs you start will remain working until you actually go to those apps and close them down, even if you were to exit DirMan (Unlike previous versions of DirMan, they would also be closed), this is a nice functional idea. This could also be extended to be a nice front end menu-like program for OS/2.

DirMan has many customizable features, from choosing which text-editor you prefer to use, to using files from within archives. With its easy to use macros, you can easily add many functions to DirMan.

For instance, I like to use the Multi-threaded LIST utility to view text files.

To Install this Option, take the following steps.

  1. With Mouse, select SETUP.
  2. Then Macros.
  3. Then Push the ADD button.
  4. Enter in LIST, as the description.
  5. Enter in LIST /, at the macro...NB My List is in my PATH.
  6. Select whichever screen mode you prefer.
  7. Select Auto Close (same as OS/2 Program folder option.)
  8. Press the OK button.
  9. Press the Cancel Button (Suggestion to Author, make an OK button).

At this stage we now have the list function active. Try it, go to your OS/2 config.sys file, tag it with left mouse button, then press your right mouse button (to pull-down the Macro menu) and then select LIST. Then presto, list should now be listing your config.sys.

I should point out that the / (of LIST /) is a special flag which defines a full path name and filename. There are other options for the macros, but in the style of OS/2, just press F1 for extended help on these extra flags (As I am not writing the manual).

All the colours and fonts are changeable either permanently via the OPTIONS pull down menu, or temporarily with OS/2 Font and Colour Palettes. The latter option is nice, but I wish the changes made by OS/2 Palettes would be saved, Maybe this will be in future releases.

FILE COMMANDO ver 2.0

This is a very fast text based directory manager. Its best feature is its ability to display 2 separate directories, this does allow quick tagging, copying or moving functions between directories.

File Commando (FC) uses a text INI file to obtain all the necessary options. You can configure what text file viewer to use, to what program to run when viewing/running a file.

With this kind of simple setup, you can specify that all GIFs should be viewed by VPic, and that all INF files should be viewed by OS/2's VIEW command, or that your LZH archives should be listed with LH32.

FC can also handle long file names.

This program is also executable from an OS/2 boot-disk. Hence it is ideally suited to navigating around your hard drive, to handle things like DLL upgrading or INI backups/restores. I like this application because it's fast and small.

FILEJET

Is another Text based application with many features. Unfortunately, it's crippled via long delays with sign-on screens etc, but then again it does make you register it, if you like it.

FileJet, to me, is too complex for new users. The screen is full of different key combinations, but if you like Xtree you may feel at home as its layout is similar.

FileJet comes with a DOS version which is identical, except that it can't access long file names, as expected under DOS.

MrFILEPM

This is a program designed by an IBM employee, who prefers speed rather than OS/2 Drive's Object. It's very fast in accessing directory structures, but it has some limitations. It's customizing features are very basic, and would require more work than DirMan's Macros. Also MrFILEPM is a space hungry beast, and when compared to DirMan's space requirements (40k less) and features, I'd have to choose DirMan any day.

Only advantage is that this is free software.

SUMMARY

If you like Text based apps, and lets face it, we all came from some form of Text based system, File Commando is the hackers choice.

Otherwise, for everyday use DirMan is probably the best on offer, for a easy to use interface and it's advanced macro support.

FileJet may be of use for X-Tree Gold lovers and people who need to work in both DOS and OS/2.

MrFilePm is probably only a first release version, but for programmers it may be an answer for a fast and efficient pm file manager.

ADDING MENU OPTIONS TO YOUR POP-UP WPS MENUS

The following steps work on most OBJECTS.

This example is based on the Desktop Folder settings on the same menu that you select Shut-down, I am going to add in DirMan.

  1. On the Desktop, Click with right mouse button.
  2. Select Open [Arrow], then Settings.
  3. On the Notepad, select the MENU page / Chapter.
  4. Make sure You have got the "Primary Pop-up Menu" highlighted, if not, use the mouse's left button.
  5. Now go down to the 2nd (beside the empty (maybe, depending on your setup) text box) "CREATE ANOTHER" and click on it.
  6. Now Type in the title you'd wish to have on the menu. In my case 'Dir Manager'.
  7. Go down to the Name field, and type in the full path and file name to DirMan.
    OR
    Use the Find Program Option. Special Note, tell the locate folder the object you are after is a program file, otherwise the find will return no results.
  8. Press OK.
  9. Close the WPS Folder Notepad.

At this stage, press the right mouse button, and you should notice now that at the bottom of the menu, Dir Manager (Or whatever you called it). Simply click on this option, and up comes DirMan.

You can also add things like an Os/2 CMD line and other useful options. One tip, if you make your usual everyday programs part of this menu, you'll have less icons on your desktop, plus it's harder to accidentally delete your menu options.

COMPRESSION WITH INFOZip's ZIP

This is a very interesting program, in that ZIP/UNZIP combo has all the features of PKWares 2.04g plus it can handle long file names and extended attributes. Also, in many cases, can compress better than PKware's zip. The main advantage is that it is an OS/2 program and has (to my knowledge) no known bugs.

More on HPFS and FAT usage? When? Why? Access ability?

Recently I've been getting asked if I should use HPFS or not.

The answer is hard, as some people have ideal hardware platforms and others have lesser systems. So I have decided to give a few guidelines, many of which are in OS/2's readme file normally found on disk 7 (Werid stuff, don't ask me why IBM does it this way, since most problems in installing, are in the first 5 disks! And no one thinks to look past the first 2 disks for a readme file, I didn't first time round).

Deciding Issues

CPU type
386SX-25 (and 386DX-20) and below - you're better with FAT, as FAT will use less CPU time.
386SX-33 and above - Depending on system RAM, and partition size go for HPFS. READ ON!
SYSTEM MEMORY
6 meg or Less - FAT, as HPFS requires a lot of physical ram, and you will adversely affect your system's performance.
8 meg or More - Go for HPFS, unless your running a low speed CPU. LOOK ABOVE.
PARTITION SIZES
30 MEG or less - IBM feels that HPFS advantages will only come into play with larger partition sizes.
NB there's is some discussion about this, and as to whether or not the minimum should be higher. For interest sake, I run my BBS software and message base on a 30 meg HPFS partition, with no noticeable performance problems. So I believe the minimum to be 30 Meg.
30 meg or More - If you have enough RAM and a powerful enough CPU, got for HPFS.
WHY HPFS?

This is another question worth further thought. Many DOS programs and OS/2 Applications will be much faster on HPFS than normal FAT, since the caching of HPFS partitions is far superior.

The HPFS File System tries to keep fragmentation to a minimum by placing files into available hard drive real estate, so that it won't casue the program to be split up. Many OS/2 programs, can be written to request X amount of Hard drive space and then the HPFS File System will attempt to find, on it's partition, X amount of unused space. Hence Fragmentation is minimal.

TIP. To defragment a partition (HPFS) move your files from that partition to another, or floppies, then copy them back again. This way the HPFS file system will then be able to correctly write, with no fragmentation, your files.

ACCESS ABILITY?

If your running a small hard drive and boot manager to allow you to boot DOS, it's advisable to make all your partitions FAT, so that you can access all your drive space from DOS. (also, partition your drive accordingly, I've discussed this in an earlier edition).

Quickie notes on the March Beta

Well, as normal, I couldn't resist to make a few short comments about the current beta, unfortunately I'm bound by a non-disclosure contract, so the details will have to wait......but here are a few quick tip-bits.

  • WinOS/2 is reported to be faster than Windows 3.1 in all functions and now can be run in enhanced mode. Me being Software Racist, won't windows unless someone pays me ;-)
  • INI files have been upgraded for speedier access.
  • Has a good comms driver. (unusual for IBM ;-) sorry)
  • Runs more dos games, straight out of the box. This is from a friend, I have no HDD space for Games.... ;-)
  • More print drivers.
  • More video drivers.
  • More Sound Card drivers.
  • Comes with MMPM/2
  • Generally faster all round.
  • Most, if not all Bugs from December's Beta have been squashed.

Has this wet you mouth yet? BTW I recommend people who are running GA, to buy safety belts for your mouse and chair, as your not going to believe your eyes.

OS/2 Comms Solutions

I am glad that Ray Gwinn has gone OS/2, as he (and friends) alone have gone out and produced a BRILLIANT coms driver for OS/2. Even IBM likes it, because until the March Beta, hardly anyone who ran serious high speed coms could rely on OS/2's COM.SYS/VCOM.SYS drivers.

Where COM.SYS/VCOM.SYS fails.

Both of OS/2's comms drivers are ideal if you don't wish to push your com ports to the limits as they can't handle the high speeds required/liked by people like myself...e.g. most of us OS/2 Sysops don't like getting 1550CPS rates, when you should be able to get 1650+CPS rates out of a v32Bis modem. Nor do we like having continuous CRC failures, or data overruns caused by either faulty or slow CTS/RTS handshaking.

DOS users could not achieve speeds greater than 9600 BPS.

Windows, well it was worse.

Where COM.SYS/VCOM.SYS worked.

Slow coms, OS/2 succeeds nicely, especially if there were no requirements for CTS/RTS handshaking.

Where SIO/VSIO/VX00.sys Works

As of version 58H, Ray Gwinn has included FOSSIL support directly in his DOS coms drivers, hence many of the DOS BBS packages (DOORS etc) will now work without having to worry about what OS/2 wants to do. Ray's drivers allows me to punch 1700cps through my modem in both directions, whereas the COM.SYS would be hard pushed even to get 1550 CPS.

The DOS support is FANTASTIC, in that it's quite easy to obtain similar results under a DOS comms package, but you then face the problem of having a slower system. As always, Use an OS/2 Comms package, you will be better off.

Where SIO/VSIO/VX00.SYS fails

Ray's coms drivers have one small problem, some of the older OS/2 apps are written in mind to use COM.SYS, which has some unusual time critical areas which Ray's versions don't have. Hence this causes problems...TE/2 doesn't really like SIO.SYS, in that it creates CRCs etc, and suffers odd slow-downs...(at least in earlier versions of SIO).....

THEREFORE, I recommend Ray's COM Alternatives, it's a ideal performance booster for all your comms work.

THE END

Well unfortunately Borland's C/C++ OS/2 compiler didn't arrive in time to be reviewed, but hopefully I will have some time in the future to do a review. Also, I am expecting to have several Accelerator Video cards to look at running under OS/2. SOFTDATE.TXT wasn't Upgraded this time, as I have not got the time spare to bring it up to date.....Any Takers?

BTW, Please excuse any spelling typos, or bad grammar, as I am being pushed for time. Anyone want to do a few Uni Assignments, boring things really, programming under UNIX or worse Macs (Yuck).

If you wish to contact me, about various topics I have covered, or if you have suggestions, the easy method is via a message in one of the following mail networks in their OS/2 area.

WORLDNET        61:6700/1
FIDONET         3:640/830
INTERNET        s303842@cello.cs.uq.oz.au

Only a Temporary address, and a lot of the times the University of Queensland's server is down and hence mail has a good chance of being bounced back to you.

Or via SNAIL MAIL

Joe's OS/2 Tips
540 Johnson Road
Forestdale, QLD, Australia, 4118.

Or via the BBS

+61-7-800-3521
Hours 0700-0215 Australian Eastern Standard Time
1200-14.4k baud rates.

Or Via VOICE

+61-7-800-4447

Most times I am around the phone, but the answering machine will take care of you otherwise. Sorry, I can't afford to return an international call.