MailBITS/19-Aug-91

Longtime reader and contributor Ken Hancock sent along several comments regarding the last few issues. On the subject of data compression in the DoveFax+, Ken noted that V.42 is an error correcting protocol; V.42bis is the corresponding data compression protocol. As for menubar clocks, he recommends SuperClock 3.9, which works fine with System 7’s menu bar.

While he was at it, Ken sent along the information that Apple has released System 6.0.8. This new revision of the System software might seem to be a bit backward, but in fact Apple is providing System 6.0.8 solely for the benefit of users who need to coexist with System 7 users. The 6.0.8 package differs from 6.0.7 only in that it includes the same versions of the printer drivers as does System 7. This is most important for networked LaserWriter users, as all users of a single printer must use the same version of the printing software. You can accomplish this by installing the newer print drivers in an existing 6.0.7 setup, but Apple decided to make it less confusing for users by putting this software together in one package. Users who would like System 6.0.8 can get it from their usual sources: the local dealer or user group, or some of the on-line services. Internet users should be able to find it on Apple’s anonymous ftp server at ftp.apple.com.

An Info-Mac reader recently asked why merging each week’s issue with his TidBITS Archive requires so much disk space, and fellow TidBITSophile Ian Feldman was kind enough to answer for us. For the benefit of others who’ve been wondering, the merge process requires at least as much free disk space as the size of your archive plus the size of the new issue. The reason is that, at the end of the merge, the TidBITS stack compresses itself (using HyperCard’s Compact Stack command) to the smallest possible size, eliminating any free space within the stack. HyperCard does this by creating a brand new HyperCard stack and copying all of the cards, in order, from the original stack. It then deletes the original stack, and you’re left with a new one of the same name. Of course, as you’ve no doubt noticed, the process of copying the entire stack can also take quite a while.

A reader on America Online asked me to set the record straight regarding the product that opened up the integrated software market on the Macintosh. JoelS7 wrote that he isn’t sure, but he believes that Hayden’s Ensemble came first. Can anyone tell us for sure?

You may have noticed last week that Adam Engst, the TidBITS creator and usual editor, has a new permanent mailing address. He and Tonya are settling into their new apartment in Redmond, WA, and look forward to hearing from people once again. Adam’s Internet connections are not finalized yet, but he is on America Online regularly, and can be reached there as "Adam Engst," or you can send mail to their postal address on the first card of this issue.

Information from:
Ken Hancock — [email protected]
Ian Feldman — [email protected]
JoelS7 on America Online
Mark H. Anbinder — [email protected]