Message of the Month:
Welcome to the January 2019 issue of A.P.P.L.E. Member News, the newsletter for informing our members about the going on within the group. We want to first wish everyone a Happy New Year and to give a hearty welcome to our new members. For those who have renewed their subscriptions this month, we thank you for your continued support. The A.P.P.L.E. Users Group is first and foremost for the benefit of our members and as such, we endeavor to give you the latest releases and information before the general community receives it.
Announcements:
We got to doing our regular updates to the systems over the new year and members will find a few new goodies on the A.P.P.LE. website. The first item is the return of the A.P.P.L.E. Crate. The A.P.P.L.E. Crate has always been our forums for discussions in the group going all the way back to the early days of the group.
Now the Crate is back online after a long hiatus and many false starts, we believe we now have it back and nearly ready for prime time. We will be further populating the base system with documents and postings here with the help of a couple of our long time members.
To use the A.P.P.L.E. Crate Forums, click on the Members menu item on the main menu. The third item in the section is the A.P.P.L.E. Crate as shown in the graphic:
Once you have selected the A.P.P.L.E. Crate menu item, the A.P.P.L.E. Crate will appear on the page. as shown below:
You do not need to log in to a separate account for this. It is all part of your A.P.P.L.E. members account. This allows us to seamlessly incorporate everything into one basket of data.
We are also currently in the process of recovering old message databases which will be incorporated through our knowledge base as quickly as we can.
Also, if you missed our December issue of the newsletter, you might want to re-visit it. Denis Molony let us know that he has once again updated the Apple II Disk Browser to support our hybrid disks which were discovered recently in the library as we were testing some of our older disks in an effort to prepare for full WOZ format support.
Disk Browser Version 1.0.33 is also available from the DiskBrowser website.
Work is continuing on the the forthcoming re-production of the 1982 A.P.P.L.E. In-Depth series book, “All About DOS: Enhanced Edition.” This book will be more than 320 pages when completed and will be a must have not only for the Apple programmer who works with DOS but also for those just learning the Apple II and are looking for methodologies to advance their knowledge of the machine. The articles above are also part of the book as well as additional information from John Keoni Morris, creator of Applesauce. We have made good progress and have the entire book typeset with final proofreading being performed as we speak. Stay tuned for more on this.
************************************************************************
You will find links to all of our books, fulfilled by Lulu, listed at: www.callapple.org/books. Now that the colder days of the year are fast upon us, A.P.P.L.E. has begun the long process of catching up on those tasks that the hot days of summer make difficult.
************************************************************************
Call-A.P.P.L.E. Magazine:
The Fall and the Winter editions of Call-A.P.P.L.E. magazine are both now in the library for our members to download and enjoy and we have the impending Spring 2019 issue coming sometime mid February.
We have been trying to catch up our production schedule on a number of fronts as illness has overtaken several members of our staff this fall. However, we push on with the help of A.P.P.L.E. members volunteering their time and efforts to help us keep up. We thank those who have been there for us during these tough months.
The Magazine PDFs are available to our members after logging in and visiting the first Magazine menu’s pop out), at 80oversize pages, lots of great technical and other articles. Check it out.
Out project that we have undertaken to return all of our magazine issues to the online library is still ongoing, To date, this project is about 80% completed with the several of the 2004 issues still being reproduced. Some issues from 2005 to 2011 are still missing due to re-working of the existing PDF files for better readability. We hope to finish soon so that our members will be able to download all magazine PDFs for free.
Other Miscellaneous:
As noted last month, the website has been updated to WordPress 5.0. With this update comes a number of changes for posting articles on the website. If you are posting items, be sure to include the following items:
- Categories (Select 1main, 1 sub)
- Tags (Up to 5-7)
- Featured Image (set in the right column under the document tab)
- List Code as a Code section (Click on the Plus sign and select Code in the editor)
All A.P.P.L.E. Members are welcome to post articles to the website. All articles should be Apple computing related, should be substantive and informative and should be the author’s original work or a derivative of another named work. For an example of what an article should look like when completed, check out this article from the 1982 issue of Call-A.P.P.L.E. magazine.
For those of you who have followed our Virtual Apple II website over the years, sadly the only browser the emulator continues to work in is Apple’s Safari browser on both the PC and Mac. To use the plugin, you will need to download the plugin from the website and ensure that it is turned on in the Safari Preferences/Websites pane. The system will give you a warning about using the plugin however, and unfortunately it ceases working in Safari 12 due to Apple, Inc.discontinuing support for traditional plugins. Update: We now have located an emulator which will allow us to salvage the Virtual Apple II website. This so far only applies to the Apple II side with the IIgs side still being looked at. Once this update is applied, we will make an announcement on the A.P.P.L.E. website.
*** APDAlog is coming soon! The scanned issues will be available for download sometime within the next week or so. A.P.P.L.E. was the founder of APDA (Apple Programmers and Developers Association). ***
The only missing issue of the APDAlog at this point is v1n2 published in October 1986. These newsletters give a full perspective on the products which were available from APDA at the time. Early issues of the APDAlog were 30-40 pages while the later issues were over 70 pages.
Prior to installing the new A.P.P.L.E. Crate forums software, we had announced that we would be using SLACK. This is no longer the case as we will be keeping everything integrated into the main website as much as possible.
Finally, Our MECC.co project received one more major push over the New Year’s holiday in an effort to complete the entire project. While we now have about 99% of the manuals, some 330 total documents, there are still a few obscure items missing from the library. We will be publishing a list of those missing items after the New Year’s scan batch. Our thanks go to Antoine Vignau and Mark Pilgrim for their relentless pursuit of the software. A new batch of software will be sent to Antoine in February with the intention of making the entire library available prior to KansasFest.
The A.P.P.L.E. Catalog
New Books From A.P.P.L.E.
All About DOS: Enhanced Edition (coming Early 2019)
All About DOS: Enhanced Edition is an updated version of the original A.P.P.L.E. In Depth book All About DOS from 1982. This book contains a fully re-typeset and modernized version of the book and includes more than 320 pages of DOS tutorials and utility programs and is a fine addition to your AP.P.L.E.library. Included is a utility to moveDOS to the language card, DOS speedups, Catalog manipulation routines, random to sequential (and back) file conversion, re-locatable code files, direct sector read/write, DOS 3.3 bug fixes and exotic patches. Loaded with nifty tricks and techniques. Production of the book is nearing completionand availability will be early 2019.
New Games From A.P.P.L.E.
Thanks to a coordinated effort from the original publisher and A.P.P.L.E. staff, the rare Apple II game, Lordlings of Yore, is once again available exclusively from A.P.P.L.E. We have acquired the publishing rights to the game and are producing a limited edition, high-quality box of the game, complete with floppy disk and manual.
The remastered Lordlings of Yore manual in paperback and hardback is available for order today through our bookstore with the disk image being available for download. Pricing for the Lordlings of Yore box and disk will be announced once initial production runs are completed.
Also coming to the A.P.P.L.E. realm is the Jeff D. Kostinoff produced game Caterkiller. This action game was produced by Jeff in 1983 and is being re-released with a new manual and physical floppies. Also on the horizon is the complete Synergistic Software games library for the Apple II in physical floppy disk form. Collectors will want to get these floppy disks early as they will be limited runs. The pre-order pages for the games will be available soon. The physical floppies will be available in a similar time frame as Lordlings of Yore.
Other News
While we always endeavor to produce content for Call-A.P.P.L.E. magazine that is of interest to our members, we always are looking for new writers for the magazine. If you have an article you would like to see published for our members, be sure and send it to editor@callapple.org.
A.P.P.L.E.’s 40th anniversary is closing out with a number of improvements. Items which we had planned for the year are slowly coming together with additional products coming down the pipes. This year also marked the 40th product mark for the A.P.P.L.E. Book Store with a number of new software products also in the works.
| A Message from Apple Land: Be sure and check out the new Apple Lisa QuadPort Serial Board for UNIX & XENIX -With Software Available from VintageMicros for $379 |
| The new QPB brings Lisa UNIX and XENIX to every Lisa user. This new Lisa board is ready to run Lisa and XENIX with no research on these arcane systems necessary. Lisa UNIX and Lisa XENIX is no longer ONLY for the elite! Sapient Technologies and VintageMicros provides a kit that includes Microsoft/SCO XENIX and UniSoft UniPlus+ UNIX on compact flash cards that are compatible with the X/ProFile hard disk system. These pre-installed distributions offer a working operating system right out of the box, and are accompanied by a guide that walks the user through basic administrative tasks, connectivity instructions, and more. Instructions for installing the compact flash card(s) and adjustments to the X/ProFile are also provided. Of course users are also free to install the their own versions of these operating systems themselves on original Apple ProFile or Widget drives using original guides and software available on Bitsavers and other areas of the Internet. http://vintagemicros.com/catalog/apple-lisa-quadport-serial-board-unix-xenix-with-software-p-303.html |
Amazon Link to Support A.P.P.L.E.
Using our Amazon link is another way you and your friends can support the A.P.P.L.E. user group and our efforts – there is no cost to you. We get a little credit when you click the link before purchasing any products, and complete the purchase in that same session (and same browser window): https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect-home/callapple-20
Lulu Coupon
Every few days, we update the time-limited coupon code offered by our online book store, LULU.com. These coupon codes are on the main www.callapple.org website in the pinned article at the top of the news page. When you are purchasing A.P.P.L.E. books, be sure and check the A.P.P.L.E. website for the latest discount codes.
2018 A.P.P.L.E. Books
Read more about our books at: www.callapple.org/books
Tome of Copy Protection
Apple Pugetsound Program Library Exchange (A.P.P.L.E.), Bruce Jones, and Lane Roathe are proud to announce the immediate availability of the book Tome of Copy Protection. Copy protection is designed to keep people from making copies of a disk. Because of the complexity and ‘hidden’ aspects of copy protection, most people have little or no idea how this protection works. This 380 page book is designed to help you understand what is going on with your protected Apple II disks, and possibly show you how to copy them, or create your own copy protection scheme.
The Apple’s Apprentice
Apple Pugetsound Program Library Exchange (A.P.P.L.E.) and Roger Wagner are proud to announce the immediate availability of the book The Apple’s Apprentice. In a world of computer magazines where the target audience leans toward the adult side of life, comes The Apple’s Apprentice – the first computer magazine produced for beginners and kids of all ages, from 8 to 80. Put your feet up on a chair, relax, and learn about Apple II computers in an informative, fun way. All three issues have been lovingly restored, so that you can enjoy the amazement and wonder of computing in 1984.
All About Applesoft: Enhanced Edition
Asa comprehensive guide to Applesoft BASIC, “All About Applesoft” examines the construction and use of the BASIC programming language on a variety of levels. This new “Enhanced Edition,” encompassing 280 fact-filled pages,features the improved readability of modern fonts and typesetting, memory maps,example programs, many programming references, how-to’s, and a glossary –making it the go-to reference for Apple II programmers.
The Apple House:
How to Computerize Your Home Using Your Apple II Computer
Apple Pugetsound Program Library Exchange (A.P.P.L.E.) and John Blankenship are proud to announce the immediate availability of the book The Apple House: Howto Computerize Your Home Using Your Apple II Computer. Originally published in 1984 by Pearson Education, Inc, the new 186 page book is completely remastered and re-typeset. Additionally, all of John Blankenship’s custom home automation software featured in the book has been retyped and made available on a free disk image. No digital copies of this software are otherwise available online or found in John Blankenship’s personal disk archives.
Big Mac: Macro Assembler
A new, expanded paperback manual for the popular Apple II machine language programming tool Big Mac: Macro Assembler. Originally published in 1981 by A.P.P.L.E. from author Glen E. Bredon, the new 128 page manual combines for the first time Big Mac, along with Big Mac.LC,Symbol Cross-Reference, and Symbol Symon that expand its capabilities.
Blankenship BASIC
Anew manual for the Apple II programming language Blankenship BASIC by John Blankenship. Beyond improved readability from modern typesetting, this80 page manual makes using, understanding, and expanding the programming language easy. John assisted us with this release, and he is eager to see how people expand their programs. Blankenship BASIC, last released 1987, expands the power of Applesoft BASIC by vastly expanding available commands and capabilities for Apple II programmers of all levels. Programs are written with a sophisticated line editor and complete compiler. BASIC will be easier, faster, more structured, more fun, and especially more useful.
Microwriter IIe
A new manual for the Apple II word processor MicroWriter by William H. Starbuck. MicroWriter is a screen-oriented word processor for the Apple II computer that is easy to use and will satisfy the needs of most users. It shows as much text as possible so that you can see your words in context. It is more complex than the simplest word processors, and simpler than the most complex ones.
Other A.P.P.L.E. Books:
Featured at: www.callapple.org/books
Cyber Jack: The Adventures of Robert Clardy and Synergistic Software
CyberJack chronicles Robert Clardy’s adventures throughout his self-made career as a computer programmer. He shares business advice, humorous stories, and insightful experiences of creating and expanding Synergistic Software – a company best-known for popular computer games for the Apple II, Atari, IBM PC, Commodore 64, Commodore Amiga,and Mac. During the past 37 years of programming and publishing software, Clardy either wrote, designed, or directed the development of over 400 published programs. He changed the way users related to their computers and the games that they played. For example, Dungeon Campaign released in 1978 was the first graphical RPG adventure. While he enjoyed creating and publishing software, Clardy made sure to have fun along the way while revolutionizing the computer industry…
Synergistic Software: The Early Games
Synergistic Software, founded by Robert C. Clardy, established itself as a computer game company in 1978 and produced more than 160 titles over the next 20 years,encompassing games, business, educational, and utility software. This book focuses on Synergistic’s early games between 1978 and 1982, primarily for the Apple II computer, and includes enhanced manuals for: Apventure to Atlantis, Bolo, Crisis Mountain, Death Run, Doom Cavern, Dungeon Campaign,Escape From Arcturus, Microbe, Nightmare Gallery, Odyssey, Procyon Warrior,Sorcerer’s Challenge, Tank Attack, U-Boat Command, and Wilderness Campaign. Additionally, two manuals for the Atari 800 are included: Probe One and Warlock’s Revenge. As a bonus, Clardy shares detailed insights into what makes a good computer game and the programming challenges he experienced.
What’s Where in the Apple: Enhanced Edition
A comprehensive guide to the hardware and firmware organization and architecture of the Apple II computer, What’s Where in the Apple discusses concepts and programming techniques useful for mastering the inner workings and hidden mechanisms of the Apple II. Last published in 1984, this new edition is the most complete and accurate edition ever created, featuring improved readability, new coverage of the Apple IIe and Apple IIc, and a forward and historical perspective by Robert Tripp.
The Colossal Computer Cartoon Book: Enhanced Edition
The best collection ever of computer cartoons from the 1970’s, with over 250restored and enhanced cartoons about Robots, Office, Computer Dating,Calculators, Computers, and related technology. Laugh, chuckle, giggle or groan and have a little cybernetic fun! Includes a new preface from original publisher David H. Ahl.
Nibble Viewpoints: Business Insights from the Computing Revolution
Nibble Viewpoints is a chronology of events, philosophy, and management models that guided the birth and growth of the Apple magazine Nibble, created by Mike Harvey. It starts with the history and the seeds that became Nibble using
Mike’s editorial pages from each issue from 1980 to 1992. The
management models evolved from his experience running large
corporations, but became capsules of experience that guided the strategy
and growth of Nibble through the years. They have universal
relevance to business operations,planning, problems, and opportunities
in business . . . and in life. Nibble Viewpoints also traces the rise and fall of the Apple II computer over its amazing history.
The WOZPAK: Special Edition
The WOZPAK: Special Edition, first released in 2013 in Softcover and Hardcover, has been upgraded with a forward by Don Williams and some additional information on the back cover. The WOZPAK was the official technical manual for the Apple II, out of print since 1980, now with dramatically improved readability and new content. Features extensively restored handwritten notes,drawings and program listings from Steve Wozniak and other computing legends. Forwards from computing legends Steve Wozniak, Randy Wigginton, Andy Hertzfeld, Robert Clardy, Keith Walls, Don Williams,and Wendell Sander.
Call-A.P.P.L.E. Magazine – 1979 Compendium
This 346 page book is available in both paperback and hardback formats and includes all issues of Call-A.P.P.L.E. magazine from 1979. Includes a new forward from early A.P.P.L.E. board member Don Williams, and articles and programs from Apple computing legends including: John Draper, Val Golding, Andy Hertzfeld, Dan Paymar, Bruce Tognazzini, RogerWagner, and Randy Wigginton.
Call-A.P.P.L.E. Magazine – 1978 Compendium
The 1978 Compendium includes all the rare issues of the first year of Call-A.P.P.L.E. magazine, fully enhanced and restored. With a forward by A.P.P.L.E. Founder Val J. Golding, the 120 page book features articles and programs written by many Apple computing legends including: Darrell Aldrich, Ron Aldrich, John Backman, Dan Chapman, Robert Clardy, John Cook, John Covington, Jeffrey Finn, Val Golding,Alan Hill, Dick Hubert, Bob Huelsdonk, Gene Jackson, Neil Konzen, S.H. Lam,Steve Paulson, Dana Redington, Michael Scott, Dick Sedgewick, Michael Thyng, Roger Wagner, Michael Weinstock, Randy Wigginton, Don Williams, and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak.
The Apple II Monitor Peeled
Last published by A.P.P.L.E. in 1979, this release returns William E. Dougherty’s book to print and for the first time in Hardcover. Writing programs for an Apple II computer is simplified by having a useful reference for the Apple II Monitor that describes how to make use of a particular feature. The Apple II Monitor Peeled examines the Apple II Monitor and ROM address range $F800~$FFFF, and provides a useful reference for Peeks, Pokes, and Calls.
GBBS Pro Bulletin Board System: Version 2.2
GBBS Pro is a user-friendly, highly-modifiable Bulletin Board System (BBS) for communications and entertainment. It has advanced features that can be configured by a novice, yet challenge advanced programmers. Originally released between1980 and 1993 for Apple II computers, this new 2.2 version features additional error checking and improved reliability. Experience the world of BBS’s from days gone by and start your own BBS system!
Turtlesoft: Turtle Graphics for Applesoft
A new softcover manual for the popular Apple II graphics programming tool Turtlesoft: Turtle Graphics for Applesoft. Originally published in 1983 by A.P.P.L.E., the new manual features revised formatting and now includes the 15sample programs with screenshots. In addition to the original Turtlesoft DOS 3.3 version by Robert Gallup, John Brooks converted it to work with ProDOS. Both Turtlesoft disk images are available. Besides Turtlesoft, the disk images also include the sample programs.
A.P.P.L.E. Contacts
Webmaster: webmaster@callapple.org
Sales: sales@callapple.org
Press Inquiries: press@callapple.org
Article Submissions: editor@callapple.org
