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23586 2MAY95-0223 General Information
RE: Radio Shack - JUNK (Re: Msg 23582)
From: SEAFROMAN To: MRUPGRADE
Terry -
>> My motivation for browsing theh SIG,, had to do with curiousity as to
>> what was happening with PCM Mag?? And I found myself responding to a
>> message. One-a yur <g> folks started the string.
Nah, the originator of this thread wasn't one of us. Some joker out of the
blue jumped in and started bad mouthing anything made by Tandy as being
junk. It's one thing if someone should solicit someone's opinion and then
they reply "yeah, I like it" or "nah, don't waste your time". Tandy users
catch alot of negative bias, mostly from persons who have little or no first
hand knowledge of Tandy PCs. I don't think you qualify for that group. But
back to the point, this joker jumped in to this forum and just cut lose. I
normally don't behave as such but it irked me so I cut lose back on him/her.
I suppose it was bad form on my part to even respond to the initial comment
but as a long time Tandy user, I felt the need to speak up.
>> There attempt at proprietyism,, didn't stop with CoCo. Model I thru IV
>> as well,, were RS for thhe only support. You don't see them around
>>either,, anymore do you?
Models I through IV were primarily in the pre-DOS days, when there wasn't
any clear cut leader in an OS. Of course, when you have your own OS, it'll
probably require a specific kind of hardware to use with it (like CoCo). But
when it became clear DOS was the favored OS, Tandy came out with a DOS
compatible machine. But to fault Tandy for building a proprietery machine is
a bit much. Most every manufacturer designs their product in such a way.
Ford would want you to buy Ford parts and GE wants you to use GE parts in
your refridgerator or washing machine, etc...
>> Why my anumosity? When you sell someone a product, then hide support for
>> it,, it tend to have that effect. If you bought a Ford,, and they wouldn
>> set the carberaator,, because you had "gimmix Spark plugs installed",,
>> or insisted that you first remove them,, thaT'ud be a little stupid. But
>> that seemed oto be their attitude on computers.
I've never had to take any of my three Tandys in for any kind of repairs so
I can't comment on that. :)
>> I didn't say they made only one printer for one computer. what I said
>>was when writing graphic drivers,, FOUR DIFFERENT rs PRINTERS NEEDED FOUR
>> DIFFERENT DRIVERS, T then theu'd write one for everyone else. i.e. the
>>others didn't make them so odd-ball as to be non standard.
I don't think this is a valid statement. Last time I checked on my Windows
installation disks, there was one disk with just printer drivers. Several
for HP, several for Epson, several for IBM etc... As a matter of fact, there
wasn't any kind of driver for any Tandy printer but I use one of the Epson
drivers in Windows and it works like a charm.
>> And I'm not one-a those guys who think CoCo's are for everyone,, there
>> are other bigger computer which do many things better. The CoCo does
>> fine for me, and my buiusiness. But then I wrote my own software.
I have similar sentiments about Tandys in general. But it's like they say,
it's not what you got but what you can do with it. :)
Jeff Seawell
Lynchburg, Va
seafroman@delphi.com
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23587 2MAY95-2031 General Information
RE: Radio Shack - JUNK (Re: Msg 23586)
From: MRUPGRADE To: SEAFROMAN
Gosh Jeff,,, doncha know what a "junk computer is"???
Any computer ut <g> mine!
Ahhhh for theh good ol' days of computer wars.
I leaned quite osome years ago, there is no best computer,, there is just a
best computer for you and "your needs".
Terry Simons UPGRADE Editor
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23588 6MAY95-2213 T1000/1200/3000
RE: Dmgif GIF/JPG viewer for DeskMate (Re: Msg 23532)
From: GLENTZ To: TVDOG
I'll give it a try.
Greg Lentz(GLENTZ)
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23589 6MAY95-2231 General Information
RE: Radio Shack - JUNK (Re: Msg 23583)
From: GLENTZ To: TVDOG
Concerning PCM Magazine, Although I haven't called since Jan of this year
they were still planning on producing some kind of magazine. The lady told
me they weren't sure of the format yet. I haven't tried to get a refund of tehe
money I sent to renew my sub last spring for 2 years. Have you heard anything
more recent? What about refunds?
Greg Lentz(GLENTZ)
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23590 7MAY95-0026 General Information
RE: Radio Shack - JUNK (Re: Msg 23589)
From: TVDOG To: GLENTZ
PCM hasn't produced a magazine yet. I heard something about them trying
to put out an electronic version, but I don't recall the specifics, and
it was a one-time deal. They haven'
t returned anyonee's money.
_Computer News PC_ seems to be stepping in as the successor.
Jeff (tvdog)
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23591 7MAY95-1925 General Information
dmgif
From: POGI To: ALL
I downloaded dmgif a few days ago. this is great! Its good to have a new
DeskMate toy. Personaly, I think DeskMate and all the programs that work with
it are much better than windows. I dont have to buy a lot of memory and super
large harddrives and DeskMate programs are much easier to learn. I wish Tandy
would go back to selling Deskmate stuff.
pogi@delphi.com
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23592 10MAY95-2111 General Information
RE: dmgif (Re: Msg 23591)
From: TESTRAKE To: POGI
> I downloaded dmgif a few days ago. this is great! Its good to have a new
> DeskMate toy. Personaly, I think DeskMate and all the programs that work
> with it are much better than windows. I dont have to buy a lot of memory
> and super large harddrives and DeskMate programs are much easier to learn.
> I wish Tandy would go back to selling Deskmate stuff.
For most people, computers and software are tools. For some of us, tools
like DeskMate and DOS are perfectly satisfactory, and do the job we need
done. Others require tools like Windows 3.x, Windows NT, OS2, UNIX, etc.,
along with properly powered PC's to run them.
Right now, Windows 3.x has the lion's share of the market, and that is
the area where software developers are concentrating.
-Dick-
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23593 10MAY95-2207 General Information
RE: dmgif (Re: Msg 23592)
From: POGI To: TESTRAKE
-clip-
> Right now, Windows 3.x has the lion's share of the market, and that is
> the area where software developers are concentrating.
> -Dick-
>
>
Yes I agree but sometimes it seems as if they are leaving us home users and
tinkerers' behind.
pogi@delphi.com
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23594 11MAY95-1916 General Information
Windows on a Tandy 486 25x
From: 1008OM To: ALL
I have a Tandy 486 25SX that I initially setup Windows in the VGA mode
which I believe is in the 16 color mode. I upgraded the video to 1MEG from
516K? and tried using the various graphic options that came with Windows but
either it locks up or a message that it is in a conflict so I brought back
the video option back to VGA. Is there a different video program that I need
to get to run it in the 256 color mode? ........ thanks
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23595 14-MAY 01:00 General Information
RE: Radio Shack - JUNK (Re: Msg 23464)
From: 1008OM To: KLUCK (NR)
Working at Radio Shack for a couple of years you wouldn't believe the
computers and peripherials that were returned for one reason or another.
I have written letters in this forum that Radio Shack stuff is JUNK JUNK
JUNK and their prices are out of this world when compared to other shops.
The professional help in itself from the manufacturer was pitiful. I would
find the answers to things before I recieved a reply which many times were
incorrect. In fact I posted one here a few days ago about a video problem and
even called a Radio Shack store locally here and none of the sales people could
answer it or even
the Manager. Eventually I found a video program for the Tandy I have and that
took care of the problem. Still no answer on it on this forum. Anyway,
the way I see it Radio Shack needs to keep up with the times.
BTW, the sales people work at a MINIMUM salary per hour with a quota of
making over $65 PER HOUR. You could have a big sale one day and not have
anything else that week and you would end up making MINIMUM wage anyway. I have
seen
full time sales people making MINIMUM wage for 40 hours. That's horrible. No
wonder Radio Shack keeps making money money money. They keep for themselves.
I'm not referring to the Managers who are able to make decent wages but they do
work hard. Ever wonder why the sales people are pushy? Just a thought on how I
feel.
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23596 14-MAY 15:06 General Information
RE: Radio Shack - JUNK (Re: Msg 23595)
From: TESTRAKE To: 1008OM (NR)
> Working at Radio Shack for a couple of years you wouldn't believe the
> computers and peripherials that were returned for one reason or another.
I don't think Tandy, or anybody else, ever made *every* component of a PC,
so I guess it's possible for any OEM to have returns due to failures of
parts which were bought from other suppliers. I do think that many returns,
of any complicated product, are not the cause of any inherent defect,
but because the buyer doesn't read the instructions or manual carefully.
I've never had your experience of working for Tandy, so you are more
knowledgeable than myself on the subject, but I need to say that I've never
had any more problems of Tandy equipment (computers or otherwise) than from
any other maker. One of the benefits of dealing with Radio Shack, IMO, is
that if there *IS* a problem, one can return the merchandise very easily.
One problem I have experienced is the difficulty of getting reliable
technical advice from store personnel, but you can run into that anywhere
you buy a computer. In my area, there are a half dozen Radio Shack stores
within easy driving distance. I personally know of a couple manager types
who I regard as highly knowledgeable about computers. I also have met some
sales clerks who I wouldn't waste my breath asking any tech question! Of
course, if a store is paying minimum wage, they can't expect to hire highly
knowledgeable help.
All in all, I'd have to say, that except for a few minor glitches, my
experiences with Tandy have been mostly positive.
-Dick-
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23597 17-MAY 05:46 T1000/1200/3000
RE: Xenix (Re: Msg 23571)
From: STEVE152 To: WESF
Sorry it took so long for me to reply, been real busy lately with no time
for the computer :(
I'd like to have the 4 port card if you have no need for it. I'm
not familiar with the 3000HD, is the hard drive in an external case?
I'd like to add a secondary drive on my 6000, and I need one to get my M12
working.
Thanks, Steve.
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23598 18-MAY 19:41 T1000/1200/3000
High Density A: drive
From: TOMFANN To: ALL
Has anyone ever replaced the 720k 3.5" standard floppy drive in a TL/3 with
a NON-TANDY high density (1.4Mb) 3.5" drive? The standard A: drive gets its
power from the ribbon cable. I can use a Y-type adapter cable for the power,
connecting it to the 5.25" type power cable for the B: and C: drives, but I
am concerned about that +5 volts on the ribbon cable. I want to install a
TEAC high density drive in place of the standard Tandy drive (with the blue
button). Advice, anyone?
..Tom Fann
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23599 18-MAY 21:38 Pocket Computers
Zoomer
From: RAYDW To: ALL
Can anyone help me with my Tandy Zoomer...... I need to know
how to connect it to my computer. Email me at raydw
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23600 19-MAY 21:07 T1000/1200/3000
RE: Xenix (Re: Msg 23597)
From: WESF To: STEVE152
Don't worry about taking soo long to reply...I haven't had time to really even
turn the computer on in the last three days or so...
Am I assuming that you are using Xenix? As for the 4 port card, I am not
completely sure how it works or anything else much for that matter. How much
would you be willing to give for it (wouldn't want much)? And I'd refund all
but shipping to ya if it doesn't work. As for the hard drive in my 3000HD, it
is an internal 40 meg MFM. I just upgraded to a 386 dx/40 and took most all
the parts out of the 3000HD and put them into my new case/motherboard setup.
I may be willing to sell this old MFM as soon as I can get the money together
to buy a new one, that is if you are interested in it. It is MFM interface,
5 1/4 half height. I can't guarantee how long it would run, as it's probably 8
years old or more, and has a high-pitched whine to it... By the way, what is
M12?
Wesley
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23601 20-MAY 01:11 T1000/1200/3000
RE: Xenix (Re: Msg 23600)
From: STEVE152 To: WESF
Yes I'm using Xenix, I understand that the 4 port card only works under Xenix.
How's $20? Where are you located? I'm in Florida.
I'd like to get the MFM drive when you're ready to part with it.
The M12 (model 12) I have in addition to the model 6000 has a dead hard drive.
It has a 6000 upgrade kit in it. I've been told that most any MFM driv a TTL type monitor, it wouldn't work with VGA. Where
can I buy such a card?
..Tom Fann
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23604 27-MAY 09:40 T1000/1200/3000
RE: Q:tandy 1000SX upgrading (Re: Msg 23603)
From: TVDOG To: TOMFANN
The ATI Wonder card, sold by DCS Industries (800) 922-7257 (part #79082),
is what I had in mind.
This is a combination EGA/SVGA card designed to work with any monitor
(mono TTL, CGA, EGA, or VGA). When attached to the CM-11, it displays
EGA video. 350-line modes are simulated by interlacing; the screen flicker
is reportedly pretty bad, though.
More commonly, some EGA cards will use the CM-11 in 200-line modes.
Jeff (tvdog)
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23605 28-MAY 22:19 General Information
Upgrading tandy 2100
From: ALFSIM To: ALL
I have a Tandy 2100 and would like to upgrade from a 130 meg HD
to a larger one. Also I would like to bring my RAM up to 8
MEGS.Do I have to use Tandy parts or can I use aftermarket
parts?
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23606 29-MAY 08:19 General Information
RE: Windows on a Tandy 486 25x (Re: Msg 23594)
From: KA5S To: 1008OM (NR)
Sounds to me as if you may have a memory allocation conflict. Find
out what areas of extended memory your driver uses and exempt that form emm386.
Cortland
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23607 29-MAY 08:24 General Information
RE: Radio Shack - JUNK (Re: Msg 23596)
From: KA5S To: TESTRAKE
I worked in Tandy COmputers at Fort Worth and you are of course correct;
no manufacturer -- even IBM, the biggest! -- makes everything that goes
into its computers. Tandy did its best, even building its own chassis and
having an exclusive arrangement wth a board fabrictaion firm for PC boards.
In addition, Tandy required things like floppy drives to come without
bezels, so as to fit in their own plastic front panels. This ended as the
cost became more important.
I do not believe Tandy _ever_ made money by _building_ its own computers,
though that is the normal reason to make something. Tandy COmputers sold
only to Tandy, and had a smallproduct run, too smallto economize on
components.
Tandy Computers is now history, of course.
Cortland
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23608 29-MAY 08:25 T1000/1200/3000
RE: High Density A: drive (Re: Msg 23598)
From: KA5S To: TOMFANN
There was a Tnady cable made that had tehpower wires punched out so you
could use a reagualr drive.
Cortland
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23609 30-MAY 23:06 T1000/1200/3000
RE: Xenix (Re: Msg 23601)
From: WESF To: STEVE152
Sorry for taking sooooo long to reply...been so busy this month, I've only used
40 minutes of my time online for Delphi this month. $20 sounds ok for the 4
port card. I'm located in VA. If interested...how about sending $10 in
advance, and when you get it and it works ok, send the other 10 plus shipping.
Sound fair?
As for the hard drive, I'm biding my time anxiously awaiting the time when I
can afford to replace it. It has a major high pitched whine to it, and I can
in no way shape or form guarantee it. If you want it, I'll be glad to part with
it just as soon as I have the money to get a new one...which hopefully won't be
too long, as I need some more storage space too. Well, it is an MFM drive,
5.25 form factor, 5 heads 989 cylinders, 17 sectors/track. MFM as far as I
know, but I can't guarantee it. What's it worth to ya once I get it replaced?
Like I said, it could die the day you get it for all I know...that's assuming
it lives till you get it!
Lemme know...
Wesley
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23610 31-MAY 00:06 T1000/1200/3000
RE: Q:tandy 1000SX upgrading (Re: Msg 23604)
From: TOMFANN To: TVDOG
Flicker, eh? I wondered how EGA or VGA could be gotten from a CM-11. Well,
I don't consider flicker acceptable for extended use. Thanks for the info.
..Tom Fann
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23611 31-MAY 00:13 T1000/1200/3000
RE: High Density A: drive (Re: Msg 23608)
From: TOMFANN To: KA5S
I couldn't find such a cable in any of my old catalogs. Would you happen to
know the catalog number?
..Tom Fann
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23612 31-MAY 04:14 T1000/1200/3000
RE: Xenix (Re: Msg 23609)
From: TVDOG To: WESF
Not my conversation, Wes, but I thought you'd like to know that most of the
time a whining hard drive is not a cause for concern. The vibration is
caused by the drive's grounding strap and can be fixed if desired by gluing
some foam rubber to the strap. Otherwise, it is harmless and can be ignored.
Jeff (tvdog)
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23613 31-MAY 11:26 T1000/1200/3000
RE: High Density A: drive (Re: Msg 23611)
From: KA5S To: TOMFANN
No... sorry! I remember we had a deal of trouble at Tandy while we were
still using both types, though, as the wrong cable wold blow out a trace on the
FD board. Easily fixed... but a pain!
Cortland
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23614 31-MAY 12:06 M4D/4P/4/III/I
Help! Video gone
From: KA5S To: ALL
My mother -- God Bless her! -- has a completed novel on TRSDOS6.1
disks... and her M4P video has quit. Looks to me as if either the\
horiz output transistor is bad or the HV rectifier, as after replacing
the fuse, the CRT filament came on... but not video. This used to have quite
intense video, so I do not think the tube is shot, and I wonder
if anyone here can offer hints on what to replace. I've no service
manual (well, I do... buried in a storage locker in Texas!) to look
for part numbers. I am already guessing it might be the horizontaloutput,
as there's noting but 12 volts on that.
Anyone?
thanks,
Cortland
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