TS-2068 SAFE DISK UP-DATE is a general publications to support TS-2068 Users. SDU is orientated to those serious users who have already, or intend to upgrade to Disk Drive system. SDU is written for all levels of user programming. The expert programmer will likely think that the content is too basic, and the novice will feel that it is too advanced. To the latter, knowledge is gained by the study of details that are foreign, as no one learns from re-hashing what one already knows. There are many TIMEX CLUBS, one within your commuting range. These clubs provide a great opportunity to benefit from the exchange of programming information. Some produce club newsletters that are well worth subscribing to. I subscribe to no less than four of these club publications. Current listings of active clubs can be found in Time Designs Magazine, SyncWare News, and Computer Trader Magazine, all of which are “MUST SUBSCRIBE TO” publications that support the TS-2068. TO THE EXPERT PROGRAMMER, this issue is a bit weak on Machine Language programming, but I’ll bet that you can find some new kinks in BASIC that will support your programming efforts. AND, the program “SDOS MAIL MERGE” is a natural for assemblying into MC. We will do that in the next issue. Why dont one of you MC artists beat me to the punch and send in a article on this? Do it and your works will be published.
SYNTAX: While SDU is “Disk Drive Orientated”, and is now slanted to the Safe Disk Operating System (SDOS), all programming presented can easily adapt to any other Disk Controller syntax, and to Cassette. SDU will begin to support other disk systems as writers begin to support SDU. I received a nice letter from Mr. Larry Kenny of LARKIN ELECTRONICS inquiring if SDU is a “General Publication for the TS-2068”. YES, it is intended to be just that. BUT, to cover all systems, I need WRITER CONTRIBUTIONS from those who use the systems. I would love to add a “LARKEN DISK SECTION”. Larry Kenny deserves much credit for developing the LARKIN DISK and for his perseverance. He even has a “Universal DOS DISKETTE” that is compatable with the Oliger SAFE DISK System. I haven’t tried that, but would like to.
AERCO FD-68 DISK SYSTEM: David Hill started a nice newsletter for Aerco FD-68 Disk Users. I subscribed and received two issues of FD-68 User and I must admit that my money’s worth was received in the two issues. BUT, it appears that FD-68 USER is gone. The current issue is well past its time and correspondance to Dave is being returned “no forwarding address”. Maybe this is hasty, and I’ll be sure to correct it if it proves to be so. If the latter is the case, I dont want to compete for FD-68 users, but would like to invite all to subscribe to SDU. If FD-68 User does not resume, then perhaps we can start a special section in SDU to serve the Aerco users. Again, WRITER SUPPORT will be needed and welcomed.
OUTLOOK: A publication builds upon the effectiveness of its content and the enthusiasm of the user group that it represents. Both equals success. I am enthusiastic and I project about 300 subscribers by mid 1988 and increasing. When we reach that point, a break even situation will exist and consideration will be given to expand coverage and to change to a bi-monthly schedule. BUT, First Year First! I am committed to a full year of publication of SDU before even checking on RED INK (losses). Then we will decide. Best O Computing to all.
WINTER COMPUTER FEST IN ORLANDO, FLORIDA: Right in the midst of Disney World, Sea World, Circus World, nearby to the East Coast Beaches and to the Space Center. What a great place to combine a Computer Fest and a Family Vacation! The details will unfold between issues of SDU. Watch for news in TDM, SYN, and TDM. Eric Johnson, 249 N. Hardin Ave, Orange City, FL 32763, is your contact. He needs your support for success.