22817 1-MAY 17:14  T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Tandy 1000HX Upgrade (Re: Msg 22743)
     From: TAHITI       To: MARPON

The NEC V20, which replaces the 8088 and the 8088-2, and the NEC V30, which
replaces the 8086, are able to read, decode, and execute an instruction sent to
them simultaneously.  Intel chips do these tasks ONE STEP AT A TIME.
The NEC V series chips process faster, even at the same clock rate, and are so
good that the NEC replacement for the 80286, the NEC V50, was never marketed
due to legal pressure from Intel.

The NEC V series is 100% compatible with the 8088 and 8086 Intel versions.
Tandy used the V20 in the 1400HD.  Hope this answers your questions.

-*-

22818 1-MAY 17:50  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22811)
     From: TOMFANN      To: RECORDZ (NR)

I am almost certain that it is Deskmate 3, although exactly what version
number I don't know (3.xx).  The manager of my local RS said she would order
replacement disks for me from Tandy Software Replacement, just as if I had
trashed a certain disk.  I don't want to get all of them because they are
$7.50 each and I really don't want to use Deskmate.  I think I'm going to get
Ensemble from Geoworks for it.

I do know that the Deskmate interface that is in ROM and that comes up as
soon as I power up looks identical to the Deskmate 3 that is in the '91 cat.

..Tom Fann

-*-

22819 1-MAY 17:54  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22812)
     From: TOMFANN      To: WESF

The TL/3 has a 10MHz 286 and supports high-density floppy drives right out of
the box (although it came with a double-density drive, 3.5").  The TL/3 also
has a built-in mouse port that is separate from the joystick ports and the
serial port.

I seem to be the only one with a TL/3, so don't feel bad.

..Tom Fann

-*-

22820 1-MAY 17:56  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22813)
     From: TOMFANN      To: TVDOG

What is this "Practical Guide" for the TL that you mention?  What info does it
give?

..Tom Fann

-*-

22821 1-MAY 18:03  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22814)
     From: TOMFANN      To: SERAPIONS

The service manual for the TL/3 says the memory management mode is "Real mode
only".  Is that what you mean by being unable to make use of expanded memory?
(Whatever that is.....)

..Tom Fann

-*-

22822 2-MAY 23:39  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22814)
     From: TVDOG        To: SERAPIONS

Hi.

A minor point re:  expanded memory.  The 1000TL cannot use _extended_
memory.  _Expanded_ memory is a whole 'nother animal, and I have 2M of
it in my TL.  Most big DOS programs seem to be written to use expanded
memory nowadays, and it's well worth it in my opinion if you can find
an EMS card cheap.
- tvdog

-*-

22823 2-MAY 23:47  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22815)
     From: TVDOG        To: SERAPIONS

Rehi.

Concerning programming:  I usually write in assembler, but there are times
when I just want to do a brute-force hack to get something done, and I
think Basic might be good for that.  I've never written anything in Basic,
though; I've used Pascal, Fortran, and C in addition to assembler.  Mainly
it's the principle of the thing:  these Tandy's, limited though they are,
have some nice features if we could only find out about them.

About DOS:  The more time I spend with this thing, the more commands I
use.  But again, it's the principle:  why include *any* feature on a
computer if you're not going to document it?
- tvdog (who's now trying to learn what he didn't in college)

-*-

22824 2-MAY 23:51  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22820)
     From: TVDOG        To: TOMFANN

"A Practical Guide to the Tandy 1000 TL" is one of three booklets that
came with the system when it was sold.  It is Tandy's idea of an owner's
manual.  What there is of Tandy's version of DOS and Basic, as well as some
information on how to do upgrades, is in here.  I don't know what manuals
came with the TL/3, but I would imagine that there was something similar.
- tvdog

-*-

22825 3-MAY 18:14  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22821)
     From: SERAPIONS    To: TOMFANN

Hello,     5-3-94
     Yes, unfortunately the 1000tl (tl/3 ?) does not run in the mode that
allows expanded memory, I think it is called "protected mode".  The maximum
RAM I can install is approx. 700K bytes.  386 and 486 machines can have much
more RAM, in the range of 4 mega bytes.     Serapions


-*-

22826 3-MAY 22:29  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22822)
     From: TOMFANN      To: TVDOG

Would you kindly tell me what is "extended memory" and "expanded memory" and
what an EMS card is?

..Tom Fann

-*-

22827 3-MAY 22:33  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22824)
     From: TOMFANN      To: TVDOG

Thanks for that information.  According to National Parts, no such manual was
supplied with the TL/3.  Would you say "A Practical Guide" is worth ordering?

..Tom Fann

-*-

22828 3-MAY 23:20  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22822)
     From: SERAPIONS    To: TVDOG

Hello,
     What kind of MPU is in your computer?  The ibm-xt machines can't handle
more than 700k or ram, correct.  The 386 and 486 machines have the extra
address lines which will address more memory (ram).
             What are you studying now?    Serapions


-*-

22829 6-MAY 00:17  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22823)
     From: SEAFROMAN    To: TVDOG

Hi TVDOG -

I noted that you said you program in assembly. Have you ever done any coding
for serial communications? I'm having a time trying to figure out the logic
involved using interrupt driven serial communications. Any thughts? Thanks!

Jeff Seawell
Lynchburg, Va
seafroman@delphi.com

-*-

22830 6-MAY 00:26  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22826)
     From: TVDOG        To: TOMFANN

Sure.  Extended memory is memory that 286 and higher processors can
address.  It extends beyond the 1 megabyte that the 8086 can address,
and it takes advantage of the additional address lines that the newer
processors can address.  The 8086 has 20 address lines, and 2^20 is
1 megabyte, hence the limit.  The 286 has 24, and the 386 et seq. have
32, giving them more addressing capability, if those lines are present
on the motherboard.  The TL has a 286, but does not have the lines on
the board to support extended memory.  The TL/3 is the same.

Expanded memory is bank-switched (I'll get to that) memory that is addressed
inside the 8086's 1M address space; any IBM-compatible can use expanded
memory.  Normally, 64 kilobytes of that 1M, address space that is not
normally used by something else, is taken by the expanded memory card,
which divides the space into 16 kilobyte parts.  But the memory addressed
at those addresses is not constant - there are "page mapping" registers
on the card that can be programmed to decide which of the many 16-kilobyte
segments of memory the EMS card contains are addressed.  A program that
uses expanded memory swaps the memory it needs in and out using these
registers, or, rather, using a standard interface to the registers provided
by a memory-resident program called an "expanded memory manager."  The
amount of memory that a program can use in this way varies with the
capabilites of the expanded memory card, but can go as high as 32 megabytes.

Expanded memory has lots of uses.  I use it for a task-switcher, so I can
switch between 3 different DOS sessions, without "shelling-out" of anything.
The task switcher swaps the conventional memory belonging to each session
out to expanded memory, so the program that is swapped out can start over
when I switch back to it.  In addition, many programs use expanded memory
for their own purposes.  The simplest way is to swap out the program itself
when you shell out from it.  Cshow uses expanded memory to decompress and
display .jpg picture files.  I have a .mod player that will use it to store
.mods.  Database programs can use the space to store database files while
you work on them.  Spreadsheet programs can use it to store large spread-
sheets.

EMS means "Expanded Memory Specification."  Lotus was the original instigator.
You will also see LIM, which means "Lotus/Intel/Microsoft."  Microsoft has
to have their hand in everything.  On some old computers that don't have
640k on the motherboard (like the original 1000), expanded memory can "fill
out" the 640k.

A couple things expanded memory won't do.  It won't let you run Windows 3.1.
You need extended memory for that.  There are other programs like that.  But
if extended memory is not an option, as it isn't for me or for you, expanded
memory is a good choice.

Hope this helps!

tvdog

-*-

22831 6-MAY 00:42  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22827)
     From: TVDOG        To: TOMFANN

I can believe that that exact manual was not supplied, but not that no
such manual was supplied.  There *must* have been an owners manual
supplied with the TL3.

You can get technical information from Tandy by calling Tandy Technical
Faxback at (817) 323-6586 with a touch-tone phone.  They will fax you
back technical info free of charge.  For computers, the catalog number
is 2512.  I haven't really used this service, I just tried it once, so
I don't know what you can get.  You might try this, though, and see where
it gets you.

If you don't find satisfaction with Tandy, I have the name and phone number
of Tandy's regional manager where I live (Maine), and I would be happy to
forward your complaint to him.  Tandy has a new president now, and he is

You can reach Tandy computer support at (817) 878-6554.  Computer support
for MS-DOS machines is at (817) 878-6875.  Finally, Tandy can be mailed at:

Tandy Computer Support Services
400 Atruim One Tandy Center
Fort Worth, Tx. 76102

(er, atrium)

I should add that I have not tried these numbers.  I wish you all the best.
I am the owner of a 1000TL, and I would be happy to help you with any
technical questions I can.

tvdog

-*-

22832 6-MAY 00:45  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22828)
     From: TVDOG        To: SERAPIONS

286.  The 286 has 24 address lines, but they are not all on the TL mother-
board.  The IBM AT (the original) was a 286 also, but it had the address
lines.

I'm studying Tandy's now. :-)

tvdog

-*-

22833 6-MAY 00:50  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22829)
     From: TVDOG        To: SEAFROMAN

Sorry, Jeff, haven't confronted that monster yet.  I have an old (is there
any other kind) TVI 925 that I plan to connect to this computer sometime.
Talk to me then!

There is a nice article in the MS-DOS Encyclopedia (ISBN 1-55615-174-8)
about interrupt-driven communications that you may wish to consult.

Best wishes, Jeff.  (Hehe.)

tvdog (Jeffrey L. Hayes)

-*-

22834 6-MAY 22:23  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22819)
     From: WESF         To: TOMFANN

Your computer isn't the only one better than mine!  The only ones worse are
those 8088 machines.  I've got them beat.  Mine is an 8086 - 16 bit!  Not
much to brag about though.  Not with Pentium's out there!  Maybe one day I'll
get a new computer...maybe...

Wesley

-*-

22835 6-MAY 22:26  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22824)
     From: WESF         To: TVDOG

Some guide!  I've got the same type of thing for my SL.  Not anything at all
about jumper switches and that sort of thing.  Not very in-depth at all.
That's Tandy for ya.

Wesley

-*-

22836 7-MAY 01:40  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22833)
     From: SEAFROMAN    To: TVDOG

Hi Jeff -

I figured it could hurt to ask. :) I got this one book and it's got me
started on serial communications and today, I actually had some success. I
programmed it to dial the modem and it worked. Been working on that for
about a week now. Now I have to figure out what to do next. Any suggestions?
:) I've almost bought the MS-DOS encyclopedia on several occassions but the
price always causes me to shy away. I suppose one of these days I'll b reak
down and buy it.

Jeff Seawell
Lynchburg, Va
seafroman@delphi.com

-*-

22837 7-MAY 16:16  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22836)
     From: TVDOG        To: SEAFROMAN

Hi, Jeff.

Sounds like you are doing fine with your serial comm project. :-)

I paid around $70 for the MS-DOS Encyclopedia a few years ago, and I use
it so much it's totally ragged - just a pile of loose papers.  Can't say when
I'll shell out for the new version ...
-tvdog

-*-

22838 7-MAY 17:13  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22825)
     From: GLENTZ       To: SERAPIONS

Expanded memory is the kind that all computers can use. Extended memory can only

be used by 286 and higher machines. Extended memory is what is being used when
you see advertisements for machines with 4MB, 8MB, 16MB etc. Extended memory
is what Windows 3.1 uses. Expanded memory is the kind where your computer sets
up a 64Kb "window" into a much larger memory pool. The computer just moves
different parts of the pool into the window when it needs to. Expanded memory
is slow because of this "paging" compared to regular memory and extended memory
They made expanded memory because the 8088 cpu could only physically address
1Mb of ram and programs like Lotus 123 needed more room for "BIG" spreadsheets.
So Lotus, Intel and Microsoft came up with this paging technique and called it
expanded memory. The first spec was called LIM 3.2 Expanded Memory Spec.

Greg(GLENTZ)

-*-

22839 7-MAY 20:43  General Information
     HELP!!!!!
     From: CHERYLMNM    To: ALL

I've just encountered a problem which needs help.  I received a disk that I
then placed into my A: drive and attempted to format.  The disk was a used disk
that I had obtained from a friend, which had been used presumably to back up a
hard drive.  There wa
s no write protection tab in place (5 1/4 dd disk), but I got a write
protection error when I attempted to format.  Now, any attemt to write anything
to any disk on any drive brings up a write protect error.  I have a Tandy
1000EX, 640K memory, one 5 1/4,
and one 3 1/2 disk drive.  I need to learn how to fix this, or I'm up the creek
on any of the business that I do like word processing or programming.  Please
somebody out there help!  I've even tried turning off the computer and letting
is rest for a coupl
e of hours.  Contact me on Delphi CHERYLMNM.


-*-

22840 8-MAY 13:56  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22837)
     From: SEAFROMAN    To: TVDOG

Hi Jeff -

What can I say, if I keep at something long enough, I get lucky! :)

The price I saw on it (from a MS-Press brochure) was something like $125. Of
course it probably includes a bit more current information than your volume
has. I did happen to buy a couple of books today, Using Assembly Language
from Que books and Undocumented DOS from Addison Wesley. Peter Norton's
books are good but I don't like his Microsoft attitude of "you don't need to
know about that" when discussing certain aspects of the PC or assembly
language. From looking at the shelves of the book store, it seems the
publishers either think all you want to know about is C or that you are a
"dummy". I don't think I would ever buy a book in which the title inferred
that I was a "dummy". :)

Jeff Seawell
Lynchburg, Va
seafroman@delphi.com

-*-

22841 8-MAY 13:56  General Information
     RE: HELP!!!!! (Re: Msg 22839)
     From: SEAFROMAN    To: CHERYLMNM

Hi Cheryl -

You say that after trying to use that one disk in your drive that now
neither of the drives will work? You may have to take off the cover and see
if you knocked a wire loose or something. I couldn't imagine what else would
affect both drives like that at the same time.

Jeff Seawell
Lynchburg, Va
seafroman@delphi.com

-*-

22842 8-MAY 14:30  General Information
     RE: HELP!!!!! (Re: Msg 22839)
     From: STANB        To: CHERYLMNM

Cheryl,

Are you sure that the disk you obtained from your friend was in fact a DD
disk, and not a HD disk?  If your floppy drive is a DD drive, remember you
can't do anything with HD disks.  I know because I've unknowingly tried
it.  It didn't cause any sort of damage to the drive though.

Stan


-*-

22843 8-MAY 22:18  General Information
     RE: HELP!!!!! (Re: Msg 22839)
     From: KA5S         To: CHERYLMNM

Get a bootable disk with a virus scan program on it; boot from that, and see if
you
haven't picked up the FORMS virus.  If you have, then try to reinstall DOS on
the HD and re-scan.

Cortland

-*-

22844 8-MAY 23:08  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22831)
     From: SERAPIONS    To: TVDOG

Hello,    5-8-94

>
I should add that I have not tried these numbers.  I wish you all the best.
I am the owner of a 1000TL, and I would be happy to help you with any
>technical questions I can.
>
     I also have a 1000tl and am interested in learning more about the
circuitry.  Do you have the service manual with schematics?  I have the 286
manual from Intel along with the 1000tl service manual from Radio Schack.
                              Serapions


-*-

22845 8-MAY 23:09  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22832)
     From: SERAPIONS    To: TVDOG

Hello,    5-8-94
     I already know a little about addressing the 386 MPU, "paging",
"descriptors", etc.  Are you studying the hardware of the 1000tl?
                              Serapions


-*-

22846 9-MAY 02:23  T1000/1200/3000
     BASIC Patch
     From: DAIRYLADY    To: STANB

Hi, Stan!

   I thought I'd better move this to the Tandy SIG...

   Yep, that was waiting in the ton of mail piled on my desk when I got
home. I must confess Sue told me by E-mail that it would be in there, but
that was quite some time ago, and I'd almost forgotten.

   Hey, what if somebody who knows how to use DEBUG were to locate the
POINT function problem in Screen 7/8 and construct a PATCH for it in our
GW-BASIC 3.20.20? I still have about a half dozen programs that I typed in
that can't be converted to use in VGA because they have the POINT function
somewhere in them.

   I just thought of something else...  Back before the 8-key patch was
announced, I had gotten a cute little shareware file, written in BASIC,
called Birdsong. It worked fine the first time through, but got hung up on
the 8/up-arrow, then wouldn't work at all after that. I put it away and
didn't get it out again until after the patch was installed, but it still
wouldn't work anymore. What do you suppose happened?

   It's nice to be back...

                                            Sue



-*-

22847 9-MAY 22:31  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22830)
     From: TOMFANN      To: TVDOG

Thank you for your very clear explanation of extended and expanded memory.
Now I have just one more question:  when I go to the software store and a
box of software (a game, or an educational program, let's say) says "Requires
2 Meg", what does that mean?  Is that requirement referring to extended or
expanded memory?  On the software labels that give the hardware requirements,
I have never seen "extended" or "expanded" memory mentioned.  You did mention
Windows, so I suspect they are referring to extended memory, which the TL's
don't have.  Am I right?

..Tom Fann

-*-

22848 9-MAY 22:36  General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22831)
     From: TOMFANN      To: TVDOG

Thanks for the phone numbers.  I am happy to find someone so knowledgeable!  I
will give them a call and let you know the results.

..Tom Fann

-*-

22849 10-MAY 00:50 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22822)
     From: VYANKEY      To: TVDOG

Have you tried getting the manuals from TANDY SOFTWARE ASSEMBLY?

-*-

22850 11-MAY 02:51 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22840)
     From: TVDOG        To: SEAFROMAN

I have Peter Norton's _Programmer's Guide to the IBM PC & PS/2_, which
has been useful.  I agree that he tends to leave things out.  Don't have
_Undocumented DOS_ yet, but I've heard many good things about it.  There
is an errata listing for it floating around on the net, but that may not
be for the version you have.  Right now, I have Intel's _Microprocessor
and Peripheral Handbook_; I need to get out and copy the pages I need out
of it before it has to go back to the library.  The "dummy" books are OK
for beginners, I guess, but they could have nicer names. :-)

- tvdog

-*-

22851 11-MAY 02:54 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22844)
     From: TVDOG        To: SERAPIONS

I have the technical reference manual (cat. no. 25-1517), and there are
schematics in it.  Is the service manual different?
- tvdog

-*-

22852 11-MAY 02:58 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22845)
     From: TVDOG        To: SERAPIONS

I'm studying old forum messages now. :-)  Lots of information there.
Don't understand the reference to the 386; the TL is a 286, but isn't
designed to run in protected mode, so I've mostly neglected that part
of it.
- tvdog

-*-

22853 11-MAY 03:02 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22847)
     From: TVDOG        To: TOMFANN

Yes, I think you are right, "Requires 2 Meg" - extended.
- tvdog

-*-

22854 11-MAY 03:04 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22849)
     From: TVDOG        To: VYANKEY

No - how do you contact Tandy Software Assembly?
- tvdog

-*-

22855 11-MAY 19:30 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22850)
     From: SEAFROMAN    To: TVDOG

Hi Jeff -

I'm really enjoying _Undocumented DOS_. I had previously been using files
prepared by Ralf Brown and Dave Williams but they would get cumbersome at
times and they would never go into any great detail. One of the co-authors
of this book is Ralf Brown. It gives quite a bit more explanation and plenty
of examples. It even gives you a disk with some utilities on it. This book
gets a Froman's two-thumbs up!

Jeff Seawell
Lynchburg, Va
seafroman@delphi.com

-*-

22856 11-MAY 22:25 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Tandy 1000HX Upgrade (Re: Msg 22817)
     From: JEF4617      To: TAHITI

Gee,I thought the v20 worked by allowing more coal into the boiler! Thanx for
the info!

-*-

22857 11-MAY 23:20 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22848)
     From: DAIRYLADY    To: TOMFANN

Hi, Tom!

   I've been reading about your TL/3 find for $200, which I think is a
pretty good price for it. (Pacific Computer Exchange in Portland, OR,
which deals primarily in used Tandy products, wants $295 for the CPU and
keyboard, and $145 for the monitor - when they have them).

   By way of background on the 1000-series computers: at a time when IBM
and compatible computers in the same price range only offered 4-color CGA
graphics and beep for sound, Tandy offered 16-color CGA and 3-voice sound.
They improved each year, culminating in the 1000TL (1989), 1000TL/2 (1990),
and 1000TL/3 (1991). The 1000RL and 1000RLX were a kind of reintroduction of
a basic 1000-series computer after almost everybody already had VGA and a
80386SX processor as the standard. So, at the time they were current models,
the TL series offered a lot for the money. Even with 80286 processors,
however, they were never intended to be IBM/AT compatible, rather better
IBM/XT compatibles. The graphics and sound capabilities were accessed
through the special versions of GW-BASIC and DOS 3.3 that came with them.
They also had a Music program and a Sound program that utilized the sound
chip built onto the motherboard. There were also many software publishers
that wrote programs that could take advantage of the special Tandy features.

   Now, about DeskMate: Somebody else already explained that DeskMate
offered a "GUI" before Windows kind of preempted everybody else. It is
efficient and "just right" in my opinion for anything less than a 386SX. In
the TL computers, the DeskMate interface, "kernel" of DOS, and a spell
checker were built into ROM, making the computer bootable without a boot
floppy disk - i.e. mistake-proof for beginners. This was a terrific
innovation when most computers were still sold without hard disks. The
remainder of the DeskMate "integrated" package was made up of basic
applications called Text, Worksheet, Filer, Draw, Address Book, Calender,
Telecom, and a few others. Before Windows hit the scene, several publishers
produced DeskMate-based versions of their programs, just as they do
Windows-based versions now. I have DeskMate versions of Lotus 1-2-3, Q & A
Write, Quicken, and PFS:First Publisher just to mention a few. You can run
*any* DOS-based program designed for 640K or less on a TL-series computer
however, and you can run it from a List Box on the "Desktop." I have many,
many such programs by now. Two months ago, I finally got stumped on running
one program from a List Box (still can't do it), but it is a new upgrade of
a highly technical dairy program from North Carolina State University, and
it is recommended that you have "at least a 386SX computer." The program
runs fine on my 1000TL with the addition of a "shell= " line in my
CONFIG.SYS file. Anyway, I still run everything else on this old TL and
can't find an excuse to buy a new computer, except that I just *want* one of
these exciting new computers! (Shucks, I thought the dairy program might
provide me with an excuse).

   About manuals: forget "owner's manual" as a term. The various TL
computers have had different sets of documentation. The original TL, which I
have, came with a Getting Started with DeskMate booklet, a DeskMate Users
Reference Manual, A Practical Guide to the Tandy 1000TL, and a booklet on
using the Music & Sound applications (which were not included in the Users
Reference). The Practical Guide had the basics of operating the computer,
the basic commands for DOS and GW-BASIC, and some basic instructions for
adding optional equipment to the computer. Technical reference manuals (the
kind that tell about servicing or repairing the "no user serviceable parts")
can only be special ordered and cost about $50. These include schematics.
The TL/2 and TL/3 had much less documentation in printed form and more
extensive online help (F1), plus an online tutorial ("Welcome to DeskMate").
I believe the TL/2 and TL/3 came with all the DeskMate applications
preloaded on the hard drive, but there were also backup diskettes. Under the
circumstances of your purchase, I can see where these diskettes might have
mysteriously disappeared. Unless the DeskMate applications or DOS files are
missing from the hard drive, I'd just make my own backup disks and put them
away in case you ever crash the hard disk. If people wanted more DeskMate
documentation, they were generally referred to a book called, "Getting the
Most Out of DeskMate 3," by Michael A. Banks, published by Brady, and
available at the time at most R.S. stores and popular bookstores. Now you
have to get lucky and find somebody who is willing to part with their copy
or find it a used book store. You were always expected to learn DOS and
BASIC from third-party books. You can still special order the technical
reference manual for the TL/3 from R.S. (it still costs the same).

   My advice? Don't expect the TL/3 to do something that it wasn't intended
to do, such as run software written for newer computers. Stick with the
solid DOS-based 640K programs, and learn what all the TL/3 *can* do, which
is considerable. Especially how to set up List Boxes and tailor the Desktop
to your liking. And get a good printer.

   Since most of the people presently working at Radio Shack stores weren't
there when the TL series was current, don't expect them to be able to help
you with questions. Instead, get help here whenever you need it. There is
usually at least one person who has the same computer or one close to it!

   I hope this answers your original questions. Enjoy your find...

                                            Sue


-*-

22858 12-MAY 03:29 T1000/1200/3000
     Wondering about DeskMate files ...
     From: TVDOG        To: ALL

Hi, all.  Been making a nuisance of myself here already, I know.

I've been perusing the old forum messages from the database, and I see
the number of times that people had trouble running DeskMate after they
upgraded the video in their systems to VGA.  The solution given was
always simple:  go to the local Radio Shack and get a copy of DMVDVGA.RES
or DMVSVGA.RES.  The reason these people didn't have the drivers:  they
didn't come with DeskMate in ROM on those systems that had it.

I have DeskMate in ROM on my TL.  I also have at least one misnamed file:
DMVID.EXE is named FPVID.EXE - I know it's the same file because it
displays its name when invoked without parameters.  I also have DMVDEGA.RRS,
DMVD1000.RRS, DMVDCGA.RRS, DMVDHERC.RRS, DMVDVGA.RRS, and DMVDMCGA.RRS.
What's the difference between .RES and .RRS?  Did all those people have
the file all that time, but didn't know it?  Seems too stupid to be true.

Is it?  Is REN DMVDVGA.RRS DMVDVGA.RES all they needed?  Wondering ...

- tvdog

-*-

22859 12-MAY 03:52 T1000/1200/3000
     Tandy video as dual monitor?
     From: TVDOG        To: ALL

Rehi, all.  Just another question that arose in my mind while reading the
old forum messages.  I have a couple more years to go before I get to the
current ones, so forgive me if it's been covered.

VGA has the capability to be disabled, this capability being included so
that IBM PS/2 model 25 and 30 that had the MCGA could have both VGA and
MCGA monitors, where the MCGA used the same address space as that used by
the VGA.  Therefore, on a system with VGA, Int 10h AH=12h BL=32h AL=01h
disables access to the VGA video buffer and all the ports on the VGA card.
Same, with AL=00h reenables VGA.

Seems to me the Tandy video built into the motherboard is in the same
situation.  Ah, but how to enable the Tandy video?  Simply write to the
Planar Control Register at port 65h with bit 2 set.  Write with bit 2
clear to disable again.  I don't have VGA, but I can attest that the
built-in video memory remains stable (and displayed) when video access
is disabled.

So why can't you use Tandy video as the secondary monitor on a system with
VGA?  Or, if you're not interested in that, why can't you use the 128k of
memory for, say, TSR's that don't require video?  (Lack of software support
not being an excuse, since we can supply that. ;-) )

Was everybody wrong when they said you can't use the 128k video memory on
the SL/TL for anything after installing VGA?  Anybody with VGA want to check
it out?

- tvdog

-*-

22860 13-MAY 00:58 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Tandy 1000HX Upgrade (Re: Msg 22817)
     From: MARPON       To: TAHITI

Thank you very much for that response regarding the NEC V-20 chip. That was
an excellent explanation in language even I could understand! I'm glad
you're out there, thanks again.

-*-

22861 13-MAY 01:04 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: upgrade Nec v20 chip (Re: Msg 22778)
     From: MARPON       To: HOWARD2344 (NR)

I replaced the 8088 chip in my Tandy 1000HX with the NEC V-20 with little
trouble at all. You simply pop the old chip out and replace it with the
V-20. Just make sure you are careful, of course (i.e., grounding to
prevent static, don't bend the pins), and you will be impressed with
the difference. Try it, you'll like it.

-*-

22862 13-MAY 20:21 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22851)
     From: SERAPIONS    To: TVDOG

Hello,   5-13-94
      I think you mentioned in one particular post that you have the INtel
manuals for the 286 MPU.
     The 1000tl service manual suggest that you buy the intel manuals.
 Well, have you read any of them yet?  What are you studying, the
programming or the hardware?           Serapions


-*-

22863 13-MAY 20:22 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22852)
     From: SERAPIONS    To: TVDOG

Hello,
     Yes, I have studied the 386 addressing a little.  It is much more
complicated than the old 8086 (80286) when run in the mode (protected) which
allows addressing of the full 4 Meg byte memory.  Whether it is called
"extended" or "expanded".
     You see, it is possible to upgrade RAM on the 1000tl, but only to about
700k bytes, this is a slight extension beyond the 640k bytes (dos).
     The first chapter of the service manual might be fun to discuss.
                                     Serapions


-*-

22864 14-MAY 08:56 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Wondering about DeskMate files ... (Re: Msg 22858)
     From: DAIRYLADY    To: TVDOG

   Some people have successfully made DMVDVGA.RRS work on their system by
renaming it to DMVDVGA.RES, as you mention. The name of the file varies
according to which DeskMate version you have, or which set of "runtime"
files you may have acquired with programs running under DeskMate from other
publishers. For instance FPVID.EXE probably is a runtime version of
DMVID.EXE supplied with the DeskMate version of PFS:First Publisher, which
was bundled with the original 1000TLs. The VGA files were not found in ROM
because most people did not have VGA at the time the 1000TL was a new
computer, and the standard TL configuration was for "Tandy 16-Color
Graphics" using a CM-5 or CM-11 monitor.

   Whenever I've upgraded my system (VGA monitor, DMP240 printer, CDR-1000
CD-ROM drive, etc), the Radio Shack folks where I trade have always
anticipated my need for certain new driver files and made sure that I got
them at the time of the purchase. When I read of the problems some people
have had with this, I am always amazed and sorry to hear it.

                                            Sue


-*-

22865 14-MAY 08:56 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Tandy video as dual monitor? (Re: Msg 22859)
     From: DAIRYLADY    To: TVDOG

   Boy, you like to ask hard questions, don't you? I don't have the answer,
but if anybody does know how this can be done, I'd like to know it, too -
because I have my old CM-ll monitor and some old programs that won't run on
VGA (just a few). It would be fun to be able to switch back and forth
without having to open the case and remove the VGA card - which I don't do,
because it is a nuisance.

                                            Sue


-*-

22866 14-MAY 14:42 General Information
     Re: Help!!!!!
     From: CHERYLMNM    To: ALL

Thanks guys!  It would seem that it's only my A: drive thats affected.  My B:
drive works fine and receives writes perfectly.  However, when I switch drives
at boot-up, [F3], the former B: drive, which has now become the A: drive, no
longer accepts writes.
  This leads me to believe that it's not likely a loose wire.  I'm about to try
a virus clean-up, and if that doesn't work, the local Tandy repair shop is
likely to get a visit from my lowly 1000 EX.  In any event, I'm open to any
further ideas that any of
 you might have, with much gratitude.  CHERYLMNM.

-*-

22867 14-MAY 16:59 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Wondering about DeskMate files ... (Re: Msg 22864)
     From: TVDOG        To: DAIRYLADY

Thanks, Sue.  I did try FPVID CGA and DMVDCGA.RRS, and they worked as I
suspected.  Nice to know if I get VGA I already have the driver.
jef

-*-

22868 14-MAY 17:04 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Tandy video as dual monitor? (Re: Msg 22865)
     From: TVDOG        To: DAIRYLADY

There was a "Tandy Dual Display Adapter," part number 25-3045, that
MISAL commented on in message #14121 (1989).  If this was a card that
plugged into an expansion slot, it would perhaps show that Tandy video
can work as secondary.  (?)

jeff

-*-

22869 14-MAY 17:07 General Information
     upgrading UART in Tandy 4860
     From: KRUEGERJ     To: ALL

I have also posted in The Portable Place, but thought I would throw this out
for comment here, as well.  I would like to improve the COM1 throughput under
Windows by switching the 8250 UART to a 16550.  Has anyone ventured into the
innards of a Tandy notebook to do this?  The company has indicated that they
have no such chip to offer, and if I wanted to pursue it, I would have to
match the specs myself, and then say goodby to the warranty.

-*-

22870 14-MAY 17:22 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22863)
     From: TVDOG        To: SERAPIONS

I have the 286/287 Programmer's Reference.  The 286 can address 16 MB
in protected mode, but as you point out you can't use that on the TL.
The 386 goes up to 4 gigabytes, does it not?

What did you find in the first chapter of the service manual?

Jeff

-*-

22871 15-MAY 01:47 T1000/1200/3000
     Free LIM 4.1 for Micro Mainframe
     From: TVDOG        To: ALL

Hi, all.  This may be my last message here (so I think in my paranoid
moments), but here it is.

I have written a LIM 4.1 driver for the Micro Mainframe 5150.  The MMF
5150 came with LIM 3.2.  People who bought the card back then have been
paying ~$50 to get the new driver, since the card originally came with
a driver for LIM 3.2.  MMF has provided a driver which doesn't work
with much software that is out there.  Since this card is the only EMS
card *known* to work with all the 1000-series, it is important that the
current driver be available.

As I say, I have written one.  From scratch.  I never saw MMF's 4.0 driver.
I wrote it based on the spec.  I have over 70 kB of code (ask for it) to
prove that it's mine.  It's free.

Write to me.  For free, you get:  the driver, the docs, or the source.  Or
all three.  You may already have MMF's driver, but you can get my driver
for free and see if it's better.  It can't be worse.  There are no viruses
or trojans in it.  You can look at the source and see for yourself.  Assem-
ble it yourself.

I want you to use it, to give it away, to lie about it and say it's yours.

I submitted it to Delphi a while ago, and they haven't acted on it.  I asked
them why, and they didn't bother to answer.  Well, maybe I know why, and
maybe you do too.  Maybe it's because our sponsor, _PCM_ (a fine magazine)
has a long tradition with a certain advertiser.

I don't know why.  I have it.  Let me give it to you.

- tvdog

-*-

22872 16-MAY 01:52 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Free LIM 4.1 for Micro Mainframe (Re: Msg 22871)
     From: DAIRYLADY    To: TVDOG

   Why don't you "sneak" it into a different database, then just tell
everybody where it is :-)  I'm sure somebody (database, that is) will accept
it. Ask Jeff Seawell (SEAFROMAN) about putting it in the Custom Forum 68
database.

                                            Sue

-*-

22873 16-MAY 02:45 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Free LIM 4.1 for Micro Mainframe (Re: Msg 22871)
     From: SEAFROMAN    To: TVDOG

Hi Jeff -

I don't have an expanded memory board on my TX but I would be interested in
seeing the source for the driver (it's in assembly, isn't it?). Is the
source something that you can e-mail to me or would you rather do it another
way. I'm always ready to learn something new. Thanks!

Jeff Seawell
Lynchburg, Va
seafroman@delphi.com

-*-

22874 16-MAY 22:50 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: 360K floppy (Re: Msg 22724)
     From: JHICKLE      To: WESF

Just bought 2 of 'em for $12 each from Hi-Tech components. They were
mentioned in last issue of "68 micros" (Email DSRTFOX for subscription info);
and an outfit called Crazy Bob's had them for $9.

-*-

22875 16-MAY 23:25 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22854)
     From: VYANKEY      To: TVDOG

I just had R.S. Manager buddy call.  The number is for internal use only.
Vince Yankey
N7YVL
vyankey@delphi.com
vince yankey@1/303:3

-*-

22876 17-MAY 23:39 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22857)
     From: TOMFANN      To: DAIRYLADY

Thank you for a most informative reply.  I captured your reply to study
later.  I have purchased the service manual (less than $10) and the Deskmate
"Getting Started" and "Reference" manuals also, but neither mentions the
special sound and graphics capabilities.  None of the Deskmate apps are on
the hard drive, unfortunately.

..Tom Fann

-*-

22877 18-MAY 00:06 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22875)
     From: TVDOG        To: VYANKEY

Which numbers are for internal use only?  As far as I know, all of the
numbers I listed are available to the general public.  The faxback service,
in particular, is something anyone can use.

This is the subject of a continuing thread on comp.sys.tandy.  Apparently,
some Radio Shack personnel believe that faxback is only for store workers.
This is known to be false.  (And it's not the first time people have been
misinformed by RS store personnel, I might add.)  Fact is, it is much
cheaper for Tandy to fax you the information you need with an automated
service that to pay techs by the hour to talk to you on the phone.  I,
personally, have tried the faxback service, just once (I don't have a fax
modem yet, so it's prohibitive for me just now), and they _do_ answer, and
they _will_ send you stuff.  Tell your friend to check again.

- tvdog (Jeffrey L. Hayes)

-*-

22878 18-MAY 00:19 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Free LIM 4.1 for Micro Mainframe (Re: Msg 22872)
     From: TVDOG        To: DAIRYLADY

Sue:

I never thought of "sneaking" it in somewhere, I'll bear that in mind. :-)

It seems that my posting here got them off the dime, so to speak.  EMS41.BIN
is now in the new upload section on the PC Compatibles database.  Search
for "ems".

I have another program I will probably upload tonight.  It is a trivial
little time-waster that lets you "play" your Tandy like a piano, using the
3-voice sound chip (you need BIOS support for the keyboard intercept and
PC-compatible scan codes).  It is so small, I'm including the source code
with it; the whole .zip file is less than 10k.  The source code might be
of interest to those wishing to program the sound chip.  You can play 3
octaves, 3 notes at a time.

Do you have some recommendations for me from the database?  (I stand in awe
of your reply to Tom Fann.)

Cordially,

Jeff (tvdog)

-*-

22879 18-MAY 00:25 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Free LIM 4.1 for Micro Mainframe (Re: Msg 22873)
     From: TVDOG        To: SEAFROMAN

Jeff,

Thank you for your interest.  I will be mailing you a copy of the source,
as you request (yes, it's in assembly - device drivers almost *have* to be
written in assembly).  I have to write everything in assembly anyway, since
I can't afford a compiler (*snif*).

I would be interested in seeing how your serial communications project is
progressing, if you'd care to send the source for that.  I would like to
learn new things too.  (Now, back to those old forum messages ...)

Jeff Hayes (tvdog)

-*-

22880 18-MAY 22:42 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: 360K floppy (Re: Msg 22874)
     From: WESF         To: JHICKLE

really?  I would love to get ahold of one.  Can you give me some more
information on the places selling these drives?  I would REALLY appreciate it.

Wesley

-*-

22881 18-MAY 23:43 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: 360K floppy (Re: Msg 22880)
     From: JHICKLE      To: WESF

I bought from:  Hi-Tech component Distributors, 59 S. La Patera Lane,
GOleta, CA 93177   805-681-9961

TEAC 1/2 height 360K FD55BR, $12
TEAC full height 720k (5.25 inch) FD55F-15-U, $15

according to "68' Micros" they also have 1.44M drives for $29.

The units I have look new, but their ad in Computer Shopper says some items
may be refurbs or used.

 -jim

-*-

22882 19-MAY 15:43 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Tandy 1000HX Upgrade (Re: Msg 22860)
     From: TAHITI       To: MARPON

Any time!

-*-

22883 19-MAY 21:23 General Information
     A Drive Malfunction
     From: RB777        To: ALL

Can anyone explain? When I read "dir" the contents of the disk in A, I get the
a/help
correct info. If I insert a different disk and type dir, I get the index of the
/help
first disk, not the second. What gives?

-*-

22884 20-MAY 01:36 General Information
     RE: A Drive Malfunction (Re: Msg 22883)
     From: BRIPLEY      To: RB777

Hi RB777,

    This was recently discussed in depth in the PC SIG Forum.  I don't
remember the names of participants or subject lines to search, but I'll bet
if you ask this question over there, someone will tell you where to look, or
have the answer for you.  Good luck.

Ben

-*-

22885 20-MAY 02:01 General Information
     Adding memory to Tandy 2500 SX/20
     From: EHGOROBERT   To: ALL

two 256k SIMMs and replaced them with the 1 megs.  I then ran the setupsx
program.  No matter what I tried, it never showed the additional memory.  I'm
stuck thwith the 1 meg built in.  Any ideas?  Please e-mail me.  Thanks

-*-

22887 20-MAY 21:38 General Information
     RE: A Drive Malfunction (Re: Msg 22884)
     From: RB777        To: THANKS, I'LL (NR)

Thanks, I'll give it a go. Dick

-*-

22888 21-MAY 01:32 General Information
     RE: A Drive Malfunction (Re: Msg 22887)
     From: BRIPLEY      To: RB777 (NR)

Hi Dick,

You're welcome.  Sorry I didn't have time yesterday to go into detail, and I
actually didn't remember this stuff until today!  I think the gist of the
discussion in the other SIG concerned a `changeline sensor', which is
optical in 3.5" drives rather than mechanical.  When it fails to detect a
disk change, DOS still has the old directory in memory and shows you that
again.  I'm not sure if it's easily repaired, but I think a `work-around' can
be accomplished by setting DOS to a different drive and then back again, or
maybe just by doing a `dir c:' and then back to `dir a:'.

Hope this helps.

Ben

-*-

22889 21-MAY 18:27 General Information
     RE: A Drive Malfunction (Re: Msg 22883)
     From: JHICKLE      To: RB777 (NR)

Could be a broken drive change line in the controller-to-floppy cable.

-*-

22890 21-MAY 19:22 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Free LIM 4.1 for Micro Mainframe (Re: Msg 22879)
     From: SEAFROMAN    To: TVDOG

Hi Jeff -

Thanks for sending me a source copy of your driver. I can see that you're in
a much more advanced league than I am. I've recently bought me a couple of
more books becuase there were a FEW things that I wasn't straight on in
Assembly language. Sure, I'll send you my miniscule copy of source code for
communications (if I can find a copy that I haven't butchered yet <G>).
Maybe you can figure out what I need to do next. Thanks!

Jeff Seawell
Lynchburg, Va
seafroman@delphi.com

-*-

22891 22-MAY 20:02 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22877)
     From: VYANKEY      To: TVDOG

All I remember from when I worked there they wouldn't do anything without
store number and employee name for the TSA number.  I worked there before the
faxback number so I don't know about that.
Vince Yankey
N7YVL
vyankey@delphi.com
vince yankey@1/303:3

-*-

22892 23-MAY 22:38 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Tandy video as dual monitor? (Re: Msg 22859)
     From: GLENTZ       To: TVDOG

I have a concern/question. When computer boots with a video card installed
(ie VGA) normally the video memory-oops just realized you'r talkiing about
computers that could be upgraded with the 128K video ram so all of lower 640K
is available. What you suggest would probably work therefore. My 1000SX can't
be expande in this way so I don't think it would work since the Tandy video
memory comes from DOS 640K memory. I upgraded to VGA long ago but still have
my CM-10 monitor in its box. Keep up the good work.

Greg Lentz(GLENTZ)

-*-

22893 23-MAY 23:19 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Free LIM 4.1 for Micro Mainframe (Re: Msg 22871)
     From: GLENTZ       To: TVDOG

TVDOG, Please read my messages 21573, 21575. They talk about alternative
EMS boards that work in 1000 series. Both are still available. Also there
is now a board from PC Enterprises that works in 1000 series computers. They
advertise in PCM. I know what you mean about PCM and their advertisers' assoc.
Know if you could just write a driver for that extra 128K of useless video mem
that a lot of people have because they went to EGA/VGA.


Keep up the good work

Greg Lentz(GLENTZ)

PS Sorry about the incorrect word in the last sentence(Know VS Now)

-*-

22894 24-MAY 02:07 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Free LIM 4.1 for Micro Mainframe (Re: Msg 22893)
     From: TVDOG        To: GLENTZ (NR)

Yes, you are right.  The two Intel boards will work, and they are probably
a better choice if one is buying a new EMS card.  I didn't know that when
I wrote the docs for EMS41.BIN.

Of course with the SX you don't have the extra 128k to worry about.  Any
program that made use of that memory would be restricted to the TL's and
RL's (and maybe the TX).  I could write a program to test the concept, but
without VGA I would have no way of testing it.  (Any volunteers? :-)
J.L. Hayes

-*-

22895 24-MAY 02:31 General Information
     RE: New TL/3 (Re: Msg 22852)
     From: RICKSLAW     To: TVDOG


EDIT


-*-

22896 24-MAY 02:42 T1000/1200/3000
     TANDY 1000 NL UPGRADE HEPL NEEDED
     From: RICKSLAW     To: ALL

I AM ATTEMPTING TO LEANR IF IT IS POSSIBLE TO UPGREADE A NL 1000, 286 RUNNING @
8MHZ W/ 640K TO THE POINT THAT THE MACHINE WOULD RUN WINDOWS 3.1 AND MICROSOFT
WORD FOR WINDOWS V.5 OR BETTER.  THESE MACHINES WOULD BE USED STRICTLEY FOR
WORD PROC. AND NOTHING ELSE.  PERHAPS A CHIP WHICH MIGHT RUN @ 20 MHZ, IF POSS,
A 287, AND 4M OF RAM, &/PERHAPS VID3O RAM?  OR HOW ABOUT AN INTEL ABOVE BOARD,
EVEN THO THEY DO NOT APPEAR TO BE AVAILABLE.  ANY REPLIES DEEPLY APPRECIATED.
RICKSLAW

-*-

22897 24-MAY 02:58 General Information
     POTENTIAL UPGRADE OF T NL 1000'S
     From: RICKSLAW     To: TVDOG

TVDOG,
TODAY S MY FIRST DAY ON DELPHI, AND AFTER READING A COUPLE OF YOUR
MESSAGES/RESPONSES, YOU APPEAR TO BE A GREAT SOURCE OF KNOWLEDGE RE TANDY.
HOPE YOU CAN HELP....:-}  I'D LIKE TO UPGRADE 3 - 1988 VINTAGE NL 1000 MACHINES
TO RUN WINDOWS 3.1 AND WORD (V 5
 OR SIX (DON'T KNOW WHY THOSE CHARACTERS APPEARED INSTEAD OF BACK SPACE AND A
SPACE))  THESE MACHINES WOULD BE USED STRICTLY FOR WORD PROC.
PERHAPS EITHER AN ABOVE BOARD (INTEL) IF STILL AVAIL.,?? OR FASTER
286,+287,+VIDEO RAM,+ 4M DRAM?? WHAT DO YOU THINK.  YOUR ( OR ANYONE'S REPLY)
WOULD BE DEEPLY APPRECIATED.
RICKSLAW


-*-

22899 24-MAY 22:01 T1000/1200/3000
     T10  CPU
     From: JOKELLY      To: ALL

Does anyone know if the Cyrix chip that will upgrade from a 286 to a 486
will work on a 1000TL?  I'd be willing to try it if I thought it would work.
What about power supply problems?  8 bit processing?  Any other problems that
I should be aware of?

This is my old computer that my dad's now using.

Any help and/or opinions will be appreciated.

Thanks :)

Jo

-*-

22900 25MAY94-2330 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: Free LIM 4.1 for Micro Mainframe (Re: Msg 22871)
     From: JEF4617      To: YOU'RE TOO D (NR)

Hmmm.

-*-

22901 26MAY94-0026 General Information
     RE: POTENTIAL UPGRADE OF T NL 1000'S (Re: Msg 22897)
     From: TVDOG        To: RICKSLAW (NR)

Aw, shucks.  You should see some of the *real* experts talk!  I'm just a
newbie like you, I just talk too much.

Anyway, I have mailed an extended reply to you, based on the assumption that
the 1000NL (which I have not heard of) is similar to the 1000TL (which it
sounds like and which I have).  If anyone knows what the 1000NL *really* is,
I would be as eager to hear as you are.

Tandy's are good machines, very reliable - you will not regret having gotten
them.
- tvdog
 (Maybe Rick means a 3000NL?)

-*-

22902 28MAY94-0023 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: T10  CPU (Re: Msg 22899)
     From: TVDOG        To: JOKELLY

I've heard of this chip.  What's its name?  There's also a Cyrix 286->386
chip - 32S86?  I wouldn't worry about power, and if it's designed to replace
a 286 I wouldn't worry about the width of the data bus, either.  I heard
that the Cyrix 386 replacement for the 286 could fail if certain pins on
the 286 are not connected on the motherboard - and on the TL, some are not.
What does Cyrix say?  There are daughterboards for the TL with a 486  on them
sold by DCS.  Of course, the TL is still an XT-class machine and a 486 only
speeds it up.

-*-

22903 28MAY94-1158 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: T10  CPU (Re: Msg 22902)
     From: JOKELLY      To: TVDOG

Cyrix said if it was a plug-in chip that it would work.  I took a look and
found only plug-in type chips.  My biggest problem was trying to idendity
the right chip.  Tandy didn't provide a diagram of the mother board and
I don't understand the code #s on the Tandy chips.

Who is DCS?  Do you know what the daughter board costs?  Maybe that would be
a safer way to go if the costs are comparable.

I have no trouble working on my own computer, but when I get inside the Tandy
it's like I've entered another world.  It seems like they always put things
together so that you'd have to come back to them to make any changes.  That's
one of the main reasons I went to another computer when I upgraded.

Jo

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22904 29MAY94-1055 T1000/1200/3000
     v20 chip reply
     From: HOWARD2344   To: ALL

   I seen the reply about the v20 chip and I wanted to thank the person but
I lost the message. I have a 1000a which is an 8088 but I had read that in
some models of 8088's it is necessary to replace the clock crystal and
something else. I don't want to mess everything up just for alittle extra
speed. Radio Shack doesn't want to give you any help with these older
machines they just want to sell you a new machine. I have since purchased a
486sx33 and I am giving my t1000 to my mother trying to get her interested
in computing. I read on a post that someone said that Tandy's  are very
reliable that sure is the truth. I decide not to buy another Tandy because
of the service after the sale. They just don't want to here from you after
it's sold, at least that is my experience.

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22905 30MAY94-0029 Printers and Peripherals
     Printer Drivers
     From: DOUGFARRELL  To: ALL

Does anyone out there know of a printer driver for windows 3.1 for the
Tandy CGP-115 printer/plotter?  Does anyone out there even remember that
little beauty?  Believe it or not, I still have a working one and a use for
it in windows.  So if anyone could help me out, I'd appreciate it.
Thanks in advance.

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22906 30MAY94-1700 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: T10  CPU (Re: Msg 22903)
     From: TVDOG        To: JOKELLY

The 286 is either an AMD or Intel chip.  It is a large, square PLCC chip
near the front center of the motherboard.  It is labelled U31.

I made a mistake.  The daughterboard is sold by Micro Systems, not DCS.
It goes for $279.  Call 1-800-548-5182, request item #CPU486.

DCS sells replacement motherboards for the TL with 486 starting at $539
installed, if you want to go that route.  Call 1-800-537-3539.

For future reference, what is the Cyrix chip number?  What's its cost?

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22907 30MAY94-1916 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: T10  CPU (Re: Msg 22906)
     From: JOKELLY      To: TVDOG

The chip that you get depends upon the socket type.  It's called "Make It
486."  The cost is 249.90 without a math coprocessor and $299.90 with one.
At the cost you quoted for the daughter board, that sounds like a safer way
to go.  I'll call and see if they will send me some info & specs on it.

There weren't any Intel chips so it must be an AMD.  I remember seeing on
with U31 on it.  I had figured it was the CPU chip, but wasn't sure.  I'm
used to the Intel chips.

Thanks for all you help.  I'll let you know what we find out and what we
decide.

JO

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22908 31MAY94-2243 T1000/1200/3000
     RE: T10  CPU (Re: Msg 22906)
     From: SERAPIONS    To: TVDOG

Hello,    5-31-94
     With the price of a brand new Tandy computer being about $1100.00, does
it really make since to upgrade your present computer.  You know, $500. for
a motherboard, and $500. for a nice hard drive, the upgrades could amount to
thousands of dollars.  It seems like every year they come out with a new
microprocessor.  There is a 486 that does 100 megaherz, and in the near
future there will probably be a read-write CD Rom.

     I still want to know what you think of the Technical manual for the
1000tl.  I tried posting messages on the "Tandy" newsgroup on the internet
once, but didn't find anything interesting there.  Do you know of any other
Tandy bulletin boards?  What do you think of the recent issue of PCM
magazine?                        bye, Paul     Serapions


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22909 31MAY94-2332 General Information
     Modems...
     From: ELCORDOVEZ   To: MISAL

Greetings Misal...
    My friend has an older Tandy...I am
trying to help him find an inexpensive
2400, 1200, or even 300 baud modem...
so that we could communicate on delphi.
    I was wondering if you could give
us any leads as to where to find a
derately priced modem...
                  thanks for your time...                  elcordovez

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