
INFO.TXT file for DataShow to PC-DOS.


DataShow is a SHAREWARE program  in which  You can make  powerful pre-
sentations,  all sorts of games,  simple or advanced tutorials, spark-
ling demonstrations for programs or products, etc.

DataShow can be considered  to be a MULTIMEDIA TOOL  because you  as a
user can make all sorts of scripts that has sounds, sparkling graphics
and motion included.

You are encouraged  to distribute DataShow as much  as you like.  HOW-
EVER, you may not alter in any way the files included here.

AND if You decide to use DataShow  for more than A MONTH TRIAL PERIOD,
you must REGISTER.  This will  give You  a hole range  of registration
bonuses.  Also  (and perhaps  more important)  it  makes  new releases
possible;  funds are necessary...  So support the ShareWare principle;
register Your DataShow software!

To obtain information  on how to register,  read the information  fur-
ther  below,  and read  the "About DataShow" section  from within  the
help menues in DataShow. You can start DataShow by simply typing SHOW.
And You can begin a short demonstration by typing SHOWDEMO.

Do READ the following pages,  they are packed  with much very relevant
information!  Also Read further on to see,  which great features Data-
Show actually offer to You.

Sincerely

Rene Michael Plambek,
The author of DataShow,
Master of Business Administration and Computer Science



OVERVIEW:



1. THE SHORT TOUR.
------------------
   1.1. WHAT THIS ARCHIVE CONSIST OF.
   1.2. ADVERTISEMENT FOR DATASHOW.
   1.3. WHAT'S NEW IN DATASHOW.
   1.4. HOW TO ORDER DATASHOW.
   1.5. ORDER FORM FOR DATASHOW.

2. THE GRAND TOUR.
------------------
   2.1. INTRODUCTION.
   2.2. REGISTERING DATASHOW.
        2.2.1. Why register?
        2.2.2. How to register.
   2.3. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS.
        2.3.1. Behind the curtains.
   2.4. QUICK START / HOW TO USE DATASHOW.
        2.4.1. Jump right in.
        2.4.2. Your first script.
        2.4.3. Script examples.
        2.4.4. Command line parameters.
   2.5. DISTRIBUTION POLICIES.
        2.5.1. Individuals.
        2.5.2. BBS Systems / Sysops.
        2.5.3. Shareware vendors.
        2.5.4. Business users.
        2.5.5. Descriptions.
   2.6. ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS
        2.6.1. Examples/tutorial.
        2.6.2. Bug reports.
   2.7. LEGAL STUFF
        2.7.1. Credits.
        2.7.2. Legal notices and disclaimer.
        2.7.3. Users license.
   2.8. SUPPORT
        2.8.1. Addresses/Numbers.



**********************************************************************
1. THE SHORT TOUR.
**********************************************************************

The following chapter contains a brief overview of what you can expect
to find in the DataShow shareware trial edition, new features  are de-
scribed, and you can see how to order the complete DataShow package.



1.1. WHAT THIS ARCHIVE CONSIST OF.


The naming convention for DataShow Pro is DSHOWxx.yyy, where the xx is
the version number,  and yyy is the archive compressor used,  eg. ZIP,
LZH or ARJ. Please keep these conventions when you pass DATASHOW on.

INFO    .TXT  This file here, about features and registration.

NEWS    .TXT  Changes in DataShow.
ORDER   .TXT  The order form for DataShow.
REFER   .TXT  A reference text on all commands in DataShow scripts.

MANUAL  .TXT  The complete text based manual for DataShow.

SHOW    .EXE  The DataShow integrated environment. To start type SHOW.
SHOW    .HLP  Help file to be used from the integrated environment.

SHOW    .ICO  Windows (tm) icon file for DataShow.

CAPTURE .EXE  Program to capture screens from other programs.

SHOWDEMO.BAT  A demonstration of DataShow. To start type SHOWDEMO.
PROMOTE1.SHW  The DataShow demonstration script.

*.SHW
*.SCR
*.WAV
*.SND         Support files for promote1.shw
*.GRA
*.PCX
*.GIF
*.FLI

GUIDE.EXE     A self extracting file containing the following:
  GUIDE.BAT   A guide to using DataShow. To start type GUIDE.
  GUIDE.SHW   The DataShow guide script.
  GUIDE*.*    Support files for guide.shw.

GAMES.EXE     More example games for DataShow. Extract separately.

EXAMPLES.EXE  More example scripts for DataShow. Extract separately.



1.2. ADVERTISEMENT FOR DATASHOW, version 1.0A, 1st. Oct. 1995, PC-DOS.


Here's a list of the many things that DataShow can do for you:

Ever wanted  to present  your products on a fair,  and ATTRACT general
public or customers ATTENTION?

Ever been wondering  how to create beautiful PRESENTATIONS to be shown
on a screen or an overhead projector to your boss or to clients?

Ever wanted to create PROMOTION disks that you safely can send to your
potential customers, and impress them with a professional promotion?

Ever wanted  to create powerful DEMONSTRATION programs,  that show all
the features of your program  or product,  and you have to do a lot of
work?

Ever wanted to make  TUTORIALS or TEACHING programs,  that can be used
at training sessions, courses or in schools?

Ever wanted to show animated figures in presentations or make your own
GAMES easily?

Ever wanted to create MULTIMEDIA slide shows?


WELL, the ULTIMATE SOLUTION is HERE!!!! A real CREATIVITY TOOL!!!!


DataShow is a SHAREWARE program  that makes it easy  for you to create
demonstration programs,  slide shows, beautiful displays, hot scripts,
(school) tutorials, games, etc...


Here is a list of features from the current version of DataShow:
----------------------------------------------------------------
It contains an integrated environment, in which you can:

Create scripts (programs) in a specially designed editor
  - You can easily select between available commands:
    - An entirely new concept called "point and click programming"

Have a powerful and easy script language at your disposal
  - It's a 4 GL like script language with high level commands
    - Don't fiddle with many low level commands, do it easily
  - The same commands work in both text and graphics mode
  - Commands include:
    - MUSIC, for attracting attention
      (NOW plays WAV/VOC files, through Speaker, Adlib, Sound Blaster)
    - MATH, for calculations, eg. making scripts for schools
    - TALK, for speaking to the amazed audience
    - READ, for getting input from a user
    - EFFECT, for generating special effects on screen
    - SHOW SCREEN, to present captured text screens (see below)
    - SHOW SCREEN, shows graphics from DataShow, PCX or GIF files
    - SHOW SCREEN, shows FLI animations
    - SHOW SLIDE, many screens with option to move for-/backward
    - SHOW CHART, show chart made in Chart Center or imported
    - SPRITE, design and show your own sprites as animations
    - MOUSE, use a mouse in scripts for better user interface
    - Lots of other commands for writing and presenting on screen

Create graphic drawings to be incorporated into your scripts
  - You can paint in freehand, use a mouse, write graphic texts...
  - You can change colors, select boxes or circles, etc.
  - High resoultion SVGA (Super VGA) / VESA supported
  - Read/Save drawings in PCX format

Design your own text mode screens, for eg. prototyping purposes

Have a full help system available throughout DataShow

Have mouse support throughout the integrated environment

Have your scripts or graphics printed on a printer

Have scripts run from the integrated environment or commandline

A resident program called CAPTURE, captures text or graphic screens
  - Capture text screens, and alter them in the textmode Design Center
  - Capture graphic screens in PCX format, manipulate in Draw Center
  - The screens can also be shown from a DataShow script

For the graphic capabilities you'll need CGA, EGA or VGA(+)!


DATASHOW is currently available in English at a BBS near you !!!!

The latest version will always be available at:

              Danish Key Board, Copenhagen, Denmark
              <=9600 baud, N, 8, 1
              + 45 3325 5600

              Dan BBS, Copenhagen, Denmark
              <=19200 baud, N, 8, 1
              + 45 4362 5880

              Skyline (Euro Board), Switzerland
              <=9600 baud, N, 8, 1
              + 41 2867 5179

              EXEC-PC BBS, USA
              <=9600 baud, N, 8, 1
              (414) 789 4360
              - Look in the Mahony file collection

              CHANNEL-1 BBS, USA
              <=9600 baud, N, 8, 1
              (617) 354 2505

Search for keyword or description: DATASHOW



1.3. WHAT'S NEW IN DATASHOW.


In the READ.ME section  of the DataShow  help menus  you'll always see
the latest news about additions and changes. A brief overview is given
here:

Pro Version 1.0A:
-----------------
- NEW! File Center.
- Improved looks in all Centers.
- Improved sound playing rutines.
- More nested DO FILE commands.
- PRINT command added.

Version 7.0A  is the last in the line of the  "normal"  Data-
Show series.

To bring DataShow  into line with  an upcomming  Windows ver-
sion,  a DOS DataShow Pro version 1.0A  is now released.  La-
ter a Windows DataShow Pro version 1.0A will follow.

The primary difference between 7.0A and the Pro version 1.0A,
is that you in the Pro version now have the choise to operate
on exact coordinates in graphics mode.

In the older  DataShow versions,  many coordinates  worked as
relative to text mode.  Thus eg. the GOXY command  had a sca-
ling factor automatically associated,  which meant converting
a script from text mode to graphics mode should be easier.

Unfortunately  it also made exact graphics mode manipulations
impossible.  And in the comming Windows version,  you have no
text mode  at all.  Therefore in the Pro series,  you can now
choose to use the scaling factor  with the SET OLDXY command,
or change your scripts.

Version 7.0A/6.0A:
------------------
- Cheaper price for registered version.
- Now only 80286 and up is supported.
- Better SVGA graphics support for 256 color screens and animations.
  - PCX load, draw and save from Graph Center, now also in SVGA.
- Even FASTER in script execution due to improved tokenizing.
- Enhancements to Centers in the integrated environment.
- Many small fixes and enhancements.
- Continued command enhancements.
  - eg. FILE command for reading and writing text files.

Version 5.5A/5.0A:
------------------
- NEW! Animation Center for making sprites.
  - Enhanced Animation Center (16 or 256 colors, more frames).
- SPRITES command for making animations and games.
  - Enhanced sprite functions (SPRITE FRAME).
- MANUAL.TXT complete text manual included.
- More script examples included in EXAMPLES.EXE, GAMES.EXE.
- Support addresses included in this revised INFO.TXT file.
- Some command restructuring has taken place:
  - CALL has been placed under DO
  - DO has been added the FILE parameter
  - WINDOW has been put as parameter to SCREEN

Version 4.3A/4.2A/4.0A:
-----------------------
- Much enhanced Graphic Center, now many graph modes and PCX editing.
- Better sound support, play VOC/WAV via PCspeaker/Adlib/SoundBlaster.
- Now you can show FLI type (animation) files from scripts.
- More graphics drawing functions in Graphics Draw Center.
- NEW! Chart Center for dazzling charts.
- Print charts to printer from Print Center.
- Many command enhancements, Use a mouse in scripts with MOUSE command.

Version 3.8A/3.5A:
------------------
- Tokenize script files for better performance and distribution.
- Graphic modes supported are now CGA, EGA, VGA, SVGA.
- More PCX type graphmodes supported (Also CGA files).
- More GIF type graphmodes supported.
- NEW Easy! Slide Center from within DataShow.
- Up to 50 slide lines in Slide Center.
- Many script command enhancements, eg.:
  - MUSIC command, NOW supports .WAV files through PC speaker.
  - SHOW SLIDE command for easier handling of screen slides.
  - IF command has been extended and enhanced.

Version 3.0A (from 2.5A):
-------------------------
- Much enhanced and improved Drawing Center from within DataShow.
  - Mouse is supported in the graphic drawing screen.
- Enhanced Capture program
  - Save graphic screens in PCX format as well as text screens.
- Many script command enhancements, eg.:
  - READ command (new)
  - MATH command (new)
  - VARIABLE command (more types)



1.4. HOW TO ORDER DATASHOW.


If you wish to register,  please complete and mail the form below, to-
gether with the registration fee.  Send the letter (R)ecomended if you
want to make absolutely sure it is received.  In US Dollars  the regi-
stration fee  is USD $40 for the program plus USD $10 for handling and
shipping.  Look further below for payment in other currencies and mail
address.


WHAT YOU'LL GET:
----------------
You'll then receive a diskette with the following registration bonuses:

    - You'll receive a nice and easy to use installation program.

    - You'll receive the latest available version  of the program, and
      that version of DataShow will have a proper serial number.

    - You'll also receive the latest SHOWUTIL pack, a DataShow utility
      pack in which you can generate sound files, do conversions, etc.

    - You'll receive  documentation in a form (plain ASCII text)  that
      can be printed on a printer. It totals more than 150 pages.

    - You'll receive a lot of sound and graphics files (SND, WAV, PCX).

    - And you'll receive SHOWRUN, a runtime version of DataShow (with-
      out all the menues,  a program  that only runs scripts  from the
      command line), that you can distribute freely together with your
      own scripts.

    - In total you'll receive more than 100 files, giving MegaBytes of
      great programs and sparkling graphics and sounds.


Customer countries now include:

- USA,         - France,      - Germany,     - Australia,   - Denmark,
- Holland,     - Finland,     - South Africa,- Argentina,   - Canada,
- Chile,       - Austria,     - Switzerland.


SPECIAL OFFER:
--------------
Be quick. Register DataShow Pro V. 1.0 and receive an extended instal-
lation program as a bonus. With the extended installation program, you
can easily and safely distribute your own programs and files.  The ex-
tended installation program  will be sent with your registered version
absolutely free of charge. It is also quality software, a product like
the programs many companies sell in it's own right.


METHOD OF PAYMENT:
------------------
Registration with Bank Cheque is necessary.  Registration with  Credit
Card is unfortunately not possible, due to Danish laws.  Send a Cheque
made out to  Rene Michael Plambek.  Please also enter  the information
requested  below  in the order form  and send it  by airmail  (just to
speed things up a bit).

Orders from Europe can also be paid by transferring the money via GIRO
(postal orders).  RMP Data's Danish Giro number: 7 31 80 22.


PRICE:
------
The prices stated in this document are all for one registered copy. If
you or your company  need  to have one or more copies of DataShow (in-
tegrated environment) the prices are as follows:

Copy   USA, World    Denmark      Germany     France       England

1-4    USD $50 each  DKK 300 ea.  DEM 75 ea.  FRF 275 ea.  GBP 35 each
>=5    USD $30 each  DKK 200 ea.  DEM 50 ea.  FRF 175 ea.  GBP 25 each

Prices above includes registration, handling and shipping. This should
make prices  about equal  between International and Danish  customers.
If you have large orders  please state that in a letter and we'll work
out an agreement. Site licenses can be negotiated.

ONCE  you have  registered  a version,  be aware  that the program  is
only used  by one person at one time  on one computer.  Just as if you
have bought a book. A book can only be read by one person in one place
at one time.  (This goes for the integrated environment,  not the run-
time version that you also receive).

If you  see a need  to use  DataShow  (the integrated environment)  in
several places  at one time - Please register the number of copies you
need separately, according to the pricelist above.


NOTICE about UPGRADES:
----------------------
If  you are a registered user  of DataShow,  you can always upgrade to
the latest version of DataShow, once you see it advertised.  Just fill
in  the form below,  enter the word "Upgrade", and your serial number,
send it together with a Bank Cheque for US$ 20 and US$ 10 for handling
and shipping (Or equivalent currency as mentioned above).  You'll then
receive  the latest version  of DataShow  with a proper serial number,
together with  all  the other  registration bonuses  that you received
(or perhaps more than) when you first registered.


SHIPMENT:
---------
I'll ship your order as soon as possible after the payment is received
but please allow up to 4 weeks for handling and shipping.


--Cut here------------------------------------------------------------


1.5. ORDER FORM FOR DATASHOW (Oct. 95, Pro 1.0A).


I hereby (with my signature) give permission to draw Ccy:____,Amt:____
from method of payment (eg. bank cheque) ____________.  The payment is
for the order of the latest version of the program DataShow.  The per-
mission and a Bank made Cheque is given to Rene Michael Plambek.

Bank Cheque Number.....: _____________________________________________

Signature..-REQUIRED-..: _____________________________________________

TO:                            FROM:

Rene Michael Plambek           Name.......: __________________________

                               (Company)..: __________________________

                               (Title)....: __________________________

Fussingsvej 1, 1. sal          Address....: __________________________

2300 Copenhagen S.             City,State.: __________________________
                                                              Zip Code
Denmark                        Country....: __________________________

                               Phone Number: _________________________

                               Today's date: _________________________

rene.plambek@dkb.dk            E-mail Addr.: _________________________

                               From where did you get DataShow: ______

                               Which version of DataShow is it: ______

                               Diskette format (choose one):
                               5.25" disk....:  360K [_]  OR  1.2M [_],
                               OR  3.5" disk.:  720K [_]  OR 1.44M [_]

                               Computer type (choose one):
                               8088/6[ ], 80286[ ], 80386[ ], 80486[ ]
                               OR Other: _____________________________

                               Screen type (choose one):
                               CGA[ ], EGA[ ], VGA[ ], XGA[ ], SVGA[ ]
                               OR Other: _____________________________

                               Please send me  the registration  bonus
                               free of charge:           Yes[ ], No[ ]

                               Upgrade (Enter old serie): ____________

--Cut here------------------------------------------------------------



**********************************************************************
2. THE GRAND TOUR.
**********************************************************************

This chapter gives a more indepth description of DataShow. You are gi-
ven a "quick start" guide,  answers to common questions,  distribution
and legal matters, as well as support policies.



2.1. INTRODUCTION.


The first version  of DATASHOW became available in early 1990.  It was
made to be  an inexpensive program  that could  be used on fairs  so a
computer  could be left  with a presentation running.  It was actually
used  for just that,  and the promotion  included  screens  from  Word
Perfect,  Lotus 123,  accounting and other financial software. Specta-
tors  and customers  at the fair could get an idea about the different
programs.  DATASHOW itself  was working  "behind the scenes".  Shortly
thereafter I decided to release DATASHOW as a Shareware program.

Now DATASHOW  can be used by all sorts of people.  The programmer that
wish to demonstrate  his programs,  The fruit store  that wish to pro-
mote it's fresh fruit,  The computer store  that wants  a presentation
running  in it's windows  on one of their computers,  The sales execu-
tive that wants  to make a presentation for customers or the boss,  Or
by school teachers  that wish to make  simple interactive  or advanced
tutorial programs  for their students.  You name it and MULTIMEDIA can
be the solution. The integration of Graphics, Sound and Motion opens a
hole new world of opportunities.  DATASHOW is the inexpensive and easy
way into the world of MULTIMEDIA.

Although the term  "must have"  is probably  the  most misused word in
the software industry,  if there ever was a program that fell into the
"must have" category,  it is DATASHOW.  I'm sure  you will enjoy using
the program as much as I have enjoyed writing it.

DATASHOW is a feature packed program.  Take the time to master it  and
you'll be  producing shows  that you never dreamed of!  The best thing
about DATASHOW is  that it is easy to use,  it's fun to play with  and
you can try it  before you decide  to buy it!   DATASHOW is incredibly
fast and powerful, but it is also incredibly easy to use.



2.2. REGISTERING DATASHOW.


With all the above statements,  we can actually go forward to tell you
how you can register DATASHOW.


2.2.1. WHY REGISTER?
--------------------
Apart  from the many bonuses  that you receive  directly from me  (the
bonuses are  described  earlier in this file),  registration will also
disable the ending screen,  so the program  will stop running  without
you being required to press a key to exit.  The "nag screen" was added
as a reminder to unregistered users,  not to harass them. The unregis-
tered version  and the registered version  are identical  in function,
with the exception of the aforementioned "feature".

When you register DATASHOW,  you are paying me for the time and effort
that went into,  and continues to go into  developing DATASHOW.  It is
also  the only legal way  for you  to continue using the program.  You
will sleep better knowing you have paid for ShareWare programs...


2.2.2. HOW TO REGISTER.
-----------------------
DATASHOW is a very powerful program.  It took a long time to write and
there are still many enhancements planned for the future of it.  A re-
gistration fee  is required  if you wish  to continue  to use DATASHOW
after you try it.  A single registration is all it takes,  you will be
registered for life.  For a minimal Upgrade fee  and postage,  you can
receive upgrades by mail.

Credit Card Orders / Money Orders:
----------------------------------
Unfortunately Danish law  and thus the Danish Banks do not allow indi-
viduals  to withdraw money  from other peoples  Credit Cards  by using
the account number.  So DATASHOW can only  be ordered by mailing me  a
Bank Cheque.

Bank Cheque:
------------
Mail is the way to do it:  Print out the enclosed ORDER FORM from this
document (see under HOW TO ORDER) and fill in the blanks in the appro-
priate parts. Mail your registration fee (eg. USD $50,-) to:

    Rene Michael Plambek
    Fussingsvej 1, 1. sal,
    2300 Copenhagen S.
    Denmark

If you cannot print out  the order form  from this file,  you can just
send the following information instead:

    Name (First & Last)
    Street Address
    City, State, ZIP
    Amount of $ enclosed
    Version of program you currently have
    Where you got your copy of DATASHOW

Specify floppy disk format,  5 1/4" 360K  or 3 1/2" 720K. Bank Cheques
only please.  PLEASE,  DO NOT  send greenbacks!  Please make all  Bank
Cheques payable to Rene Michael Plambek.

If your registration is received  within two weeks  of the planned re-
lease  of a major upgrade,  I will hold your registered version  until
the upgraded version is released.

I will ship your order as soon as possible.



2.3. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS.


Important Information and System Requirements:

Operating system:
DATASHOW doesn't check for the operating system version. It can be run
with DOS version 2.0  and up,  but then again here - there are reasons
for new versions.  DATASHOW  has been tested  and runs fine  under DOS
versions 3.30, 5.0, 6.x. - 5.0 and up gives you more memory so you can
benefit from that.  DATASHOW can also be run  under WINDOWS v. 3.x and
OS/2 2.x and can be run as DOS sessions under both.  Note however that
the sound procedures are screwed up by these multitasking environments.

Processor:
DATASHOW will run on machines with Intel 80286 or greater.  Some func-
tions will be slower on a less powerful machine.

Memory:
You need at least 512K RAM free  after loading DOS and TSR's etc.  The
more memory you have over 512K before starting the program, the better.

Hard Disk:
Run DATASHOW  from a sub-directory on a Hard Disk.  Make sure you have
at least 2 Mb free on the hard disk that DATASHOW is installed and run
from.  The more free space you have, the more images you'll be able to
have installed along with DATASHOW.

Monitor:
A CGA,  EGA or VGA card and monitor  is a requirement  to run the pro-
gram. You can run text mode scripts on monochrome screens as well, but
you'll miss the graphics. NOTE: Make sure your monitor as well as your
video card supports the modes you try to use. Mode 320x200x256 is sup-
ported on ALL VGA cards.

Mouse:
A Microsoft compatible mouse  and mouse driver is an option.  DATASHOW
can run  if there is not a mouse installed,  but a mouse  makes life a
bit easier.  If you have problems with the mouse, it is usually due to
an older version of the mouse driver.  Always try with the latest.

DATASHOW uses overlays:
In order to allow  for as much free RAM below 640Kb  while the program
is running,  DATASHOW uses Borlands  VROOM technology  to overlay por-
tions of itself in its .EXE file (internal overlays).

For this reason,  DO NOT COMPRESS the SHOW.EXE file with an executable
file compressor  such as PKLITE or LZEXE.  If the SHOW.EXE is compres-
sed it will not run properly.

Do not change  the name of the program!  You may place  DATASHOW  in a
directory specified  by your path  and run DATASHOW  from any drive or
directory, including a network drive.  The program will find  the help
file if you haven't changed the name of the program.

This only goes for the integrated environment (SHOW.EXE)  and does not
apply to the runtime version (SHOWRUN.EXE) that registered users rece-
ive. Because it is smaller it does not need internal overlays and thus
it can be compressed.


2.3.1. BEHIND THE CURTAINS.
---------------------------
Here's a little technical information:

A. SWAPFILES:
DATASHOW uses memory swapfiles for some operations.  Provided the pro-
gram terminates normally,  all the swapfiles and other temporary files
will be erased.  The swapfiles  are placed in the same directory  that
DATASHOW is stored in.

If something happens  and the program terminates  abnormally,  you can
delete  the swapfiles manually.  You'll find them  with  the extension
.SWP.  Usually DATASHOW  will erase  the swapfiles  when it  no longer
needs them or when the program ends.

B. IMAGE FILE FORMATS, GIF and PCX:
DATASHOW  uses the GIF file format  and the PCX file format.  All fla-
vours of GIF  and PCX  are supported.  In the PCX format, the first 16
colors  will be saved in the image header  and the full  256 color pa-
lette  will be tacked on the end of the file,  in accordance  with the
PCX format specification.

The reason I use GIF and PCX  is because I felt that those two formats
represent the greatest number of images available today. GIF is useful
because of it's device independence  and cross platform and O/S usage.
PCX because of it's use  in most drawing programs  and image file con-
verters.

C. HOW?:
DATASHOW is written in Borland Pascal v. 7.0  using a text mode  tool-
box from Turbo Power. With the many tasks that DATASHOW does, some as-
sembler programming is also unavoidable. Fortunately in Borland Pascal
7.0 one has the opportunity  to use object oriented code.  This has in
some respects made life easier. I decided to upgrade from Turbo Pascal
5.5 to Borland Pascal because I could get it from the US for a reason-
able price and because  it supports easy building of programs for WIN-
DOWS.  But Borland Pascal still makes straight forward code  so at one
point in time  I might  look into  another suitable product  that does
better optimization (eg. Stoney Brook Pascal).

D. WHO?, The DATASHOW Team:
Programmer....: Rene Michael Plambek,  Copenhagen, Denmark
Documentation.: Rene Michael Plambek,  Copenhagen, Denmark

Over time,  several beta testers has attributed with valuable time and
information. Thank you all of you.

Special Thanks  to my family for putting up with me spending all these
late nights with my computer.



2.4. QUICK START / HOW TO USE DATASHOW.


If you are the type of user who likes to jump right in (I am!), follow
these instructions to start up the program. Don't forget to hit the F1
key and read necessary portions of the online manual - and do read the
rest of these notes though! There is a lot more to DATASHOW than meets
the eye.


2.4.1. JUMP RIGHT IN.
---------------------
To start the DataShow program, you can take the following  as an exam-
ple.  If you have problems with starting DataShow,  please ask someone
with computer experience near you for help.

1.  Change to the drive DATASHOW is on. Assuming DATASHOW is stored on
    your C: harddisk drive, type:

         C:

    and tap your Enter key.

2.  Change to the directory DATASHOW is stored in. Assuming DATASHOW is
    stored in your C:\DATASHOW directory, type:

         CD \DATASHOW

    and tap your Enter key.

3.  Now you should be ready to run the program, type:

         SHOW

    and tap your Enter key.

When the main menu of the program pops up, you can hit the F1 key.  In
the help menu you could select the first topic (Help on help). Read it
through and you'll have an idea of how DataShow reponds to your input.
Also try the help menu named "The main menu" - there you'll get infor-
mation about what hides behind the main menu. You can see, what you'll
get once you tap any of the function keys F1 to F10 in the main menu.


2.4.2. YOUR FIRST SCRIPT.
-------------------------
Fire up DataShow.  From the main menu, hit  the F3 key  to go into the
Script Center. Now you're in an editor and you are at line 1.

Hit the F9 key and select SCREEN from the menu.  A new menu pops up in
which you select CLEAR.  In the editor the line SCREEN CLEAR will show
up. Your first command is entered you're now at line 2.

Hit the F9 key again  and select WRITE.  A question menu will be shown
with the options "1. text, 2. variable".  In this case we want to show
a plain text,  so you respond by pushing the 1 key.  Now a blanked out
window is show, and you can enter the words "Hello world". Hit <Enter>
and the full command line is shown in the script center.

Then you hit the F9 key and select WAIT. From there you select seconds
and type in the number 4.  When you hit <Enter>,  the line is shown as
line 3 in the script center.

Now you have made  your first very simple script in DataShow,  and you
are ready to run it. Before you do that, you must save it. Push the F2
key and select "Save" (it should already be highlighted since DataShow
knows that something has been entered).  Give it the name "hello.shw".
When you hit <Enter> a message saying  the file has been saved will be
shown.  When you're in the script center again,  you hit F10 to return
to the main manu.

Select F2 Run, select "From start" and select the file you just saved.
The script is processed line by line and you can see the result on the
screen.  Now you're ready to expand the script and make beautiful pre-
sentations.

Remember to use the F1 key often...  Most of the time  you can get in-
formation on a specific subject.


2.4.3. SCRIPT EXAMPLES.
-----------------------
In the Script Center  you can also try to load the example script that
comes with DataShow. Hit F2 and select "Load file". Write PROMOTE1.SHW
and tap the enter key. This will load the promotion file into the edi-
tor. Look it through. This will give you an idea about  how to build a
script of your own.  When you run it  from the main menu,  you can see
the many things DataShow can do.

Also another script is included.  This script  will guide you  through
the creation of a simple script so you can get an idea of how to do it
all yourself. The script is called GUIDE.SHW. Run it and look at it as
described above  (look at it in the script center, and run it from the
main menu). Before you can run it, you have to extract the files. That
is done by executing the GUIDE.EXE file. Write GUIDE

Finally there are more scripts included in the file EXAMPLES.EXE.  You
have to run the file and the scripts will self extract. There are text
files included, describing each of the examples. Write EXAMPLES


2.4.4. COMMAND LINE PARAMETERS.
-------------------------------
Command line parameters  are variables  that can be entered in  at the
same time the program is run  that effect certain options.  To use the
command line parameters,  first enter  the name of the program  on the
command line, in this case:

    C:\DATASHOW> SHOW

Then hit your spacebar  and enter the command line parameter.  You can
enter any DATASHOW script file name (usually with an .SHW extension).

    C:\DATASHOW> SHOW PROMOTE1.SHW

This is also what happens  in the file SHOWDEMO.BAT.  So you can  just
use that to start a short tour of the integrated environment.



2.5. DISTRIBUTION POLICIES.


DATASHOW is distributed as Shareware.  Shareware is *the* best type of
software, it's software you can try before you buy!

Paying for Shareware is called "registering".  If you bought a copy of
this software through a disk vendor,  a copy off a rack of software in
a store, paid to download the software from a BBS,  or got a copy from
a friend;  you did not register it.  You are entitled  to evaluate the
software  but you should  read the sections here below in its entirety
before you evaluate the program.

You may, and are encouraged  to share this program with others so that
they may try it. Please distribute the program in the original package
you received it in, whether it be a ZIP file,  a LZH file or whatever.
If you received  the DATASHOW files  in uncompressed form, and want to
compress the files  before distribution,  please distribute it  with a
filename of DSHOWxx.yyy  where xx  is the version  (10 for 1.0, etc..)
and where yyy is the extension that the compression program provides.

Example: DATASHOW, Ver 1.0A, compressed by PKZIP would be DSHOW10.ZIP.


2.5.1. INDIVIDUALS.
-------------------
There are two types of DATASHOW users,  REGISTERED and UNREGISTERED.

Registered users have paid RMP Data DIRECTLY for the program  and have
received  a diskette  and an invoice from RMP Data.  The diskette con-
tains a version  that has a proper serial number, eg. not the word Un-
registered written in the main menu.

Unregistered users are evaluating the program  and may do so for a pe-
riod not to exceed  one month  from the time  when they first  receive
the package.  All users are encouraged  to pass  the unregistered pro-
gram on to others so they may evaluate it also. But do not alter it!

Important!  Keep your unregistered,  original,  complete,  compressed,
copy, of this release as a backup and for passing on to others.

Although you may not be aware of it,  if you bought a copy of DATASHOW
from  a Disk Vendor,  off the rack  in a software store,  or wherever;
you are  still an UNREGISTERED user.  This is not said  to insult your
intelligence,  but it has become necessary to make this pain-stakingly
clear.  I do not mandate that a limit be set on how much a distributor
can charge per disk,  but it must be clear  with you  that you did not
buy this software, you paid a duplication fee for it. RMP Data entrust
distributors to make this clear to people before they buy a disk,  but
for my own self-interest, I want to make it clear here as well.

Support Shareware Authors: Use and Register Shareware!


2.5.2. BBS SYSTEMS / SYSOPS.
----------------------------
BBS Systems  have the right  to keep DATASHOW  on their board  so that
users  are able  to get it from them.  This is provided  that DATASHOW
isn't  actually used  on a daily basis.  If the program  is being used
in a noncompressed form,  please register it  as a normal registration
and keep the compressed unregistered version on your board.


2.5.3. SHAREWARE VENDORS.
-------------------------
Any shareware vendor  is allowed to have DATASHOW  in their catalogue,
provided they follow some simple conditions laid out here below.

Also I would appreciate  a letter from the Shareware vendors  that in-
clude DATASHOW  in their catalogue.  This will ensure  that I can send
you the Shareware vendor  new versions  as they become available.  Af-
terall -  if I do not know  that you have  my program,  how can I send
you a new version.  This also ensures that you have the latest version
for your customers.

Who are considered Shareware vendors?:
- Any Shareware Vendor.
- Any "Rackware" Vendor.
- Any CD-ROM distributor.
- Any Company,  business or individual  who charges a disk duplication
  fee to copy software.  Or any company  that includes Shareware  pro-
  grams on preinstalled harddisks.

Who isn't:
- Any BBS system*.  Public BBS systems  may charge  for the  access to
  their file base and still not be in the vendor class.
- Any online service network* like Compuserve, Genie, Internet, etc.

* NOTE:  This does  not apply to shareware vendors who also sell their
  products online.

The terms of a distribution license are as follow:

1. You agree  not to alter  any of the files  I provide you.  All the
   files mentioned in a list above, must be distributed all together.

2. You agree  to make  a "Shareware Notice"  visible on any catalogue,
   advertisement or in store display that DATASHOW is included in.

3. If DATASHOW is to be packaged for retail sale (rackware),  an obvi-
   ous notice be on the package stating that DATASHOW is shareware and
   that  purchasing your product  does not  constitute payment  to the
   author.  It must also state  that payment to the author is required
   if the  product  is  to be used  past it's evaluation period.  This
   statement  must be on any catalogue  or advertisement that DATASHOW
   is included in.

4. You should use a technically accurate description  for DATASHOW  in
   your catalogue.  I will be happy to provide you with  a description
   if you require one (also see further below).

I am available  by BBS  and  by mail  for any questions  you may have.
Please don't hesitate  to ask me for assistance  if you have any ques-
tions concerning DATASHOW.  I wish to ensure that all DATASHOW product
descriptions are technically accurate  and that any problems  that you
might have  with the program,  or problems  your customers  might have
are addressed.  I am here to support you!


2.5.4. BUSINESS USERS.
----------------------
If this program is to be used by a BUSINESS,  (ie: used to make a pro-
fit), it must be registered prior to its use.  Registrations are given
on  a single use only license,  meaning  the program may be used  on a
single machine (CPU) at one time.  Although,  it can reside on as many
machines as you want,  it must not be used on more than one at one ti-
me, just as if you have bought a book.  A site license  is negotiable,
contact the author for more information.


2.5.5. DESCRIPTIONS.
--------------------
These descriptions can be used by Shareware Vendors and Bulletin Board
Service Upload Descriptions.

1 liner short:
DataShow Pro V. 1.0, MultiMedia/Games/Slides!

5 Line Description:
DataShow Pro V. 1.0, MultiMedia/Games/Slides!
Easy to use integrated environment for making
presentations, tutorials, demos, games, animations.
Use graphics and sounds to attract attention.
PCX/GIF, VOC/WAV via speaker, SB, ADLIB.

Also you can use the FILE_ID.DIZ description if you like.  For verbose
description you can use  the advertisement section  found in this file
or you can contact me for advertisement on paper (campaign material).



2.6. ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS.


Below are the most commonly asked questions about DATASHOW:

--
Q. Why does DataShow (the executable) have to be so big?

A. Well, many programs comes with 10-50 support files that all have to
be located in the same directory. It is generally your task to keep it
all together or your program wont work. DataShow is made with the idea
that it should be easy for users to see what is what.  Therefore Data-
Show contains all the graphics drivers and fonts necessary. These take
up a lot of space! - So DataShow has to use a technology called inter-
nal overlays.  This means that DataShow during program execution reads
only portions of itself into the computer memory.

--
Q. Why is DataShow in English?

A. English is understood  in many places around the world,  and in the
US,  people have gotten used to quality shareware programs.  These two
factors gives  a large market  for DataShow.  Also since  I was an ex-
change student in Fletcher Senior High School in Jacksonville, Florida
for one year,  English comes somewhat natural to me.  Offers have been
made to translate DataShow  into German and Spanish, but it is quite a
task.  The program itself is easy to translate,  but the documentation
constitutes many hours of work, and it is a moving target (changes are
often made). If you are interested in translating DataShow to your own
language, please write to me, and we can work out the specifics.

--
Q. My '386 have 1 Mb of memory, why can't I use high graphic modes?

A. The amount of  VIDEO MEMORY  determines  what modes  you can access
with the program.  Not the amount  of memory  in your machine  (called
RAM).  Some VGA cards can be upgraded  with more memory,  some cannot.
Contact  the manufacturer  of your video card,  or consult  your users
manual for more information.  NOTE: Most machines that come with a VGA
card  included on  the motherboard  only  have 256K  of  Video Memory,
therefore  the  highest  mode  you  will  be able  to access  will  be
640x400x256, and that is only if the video card is based on one of the
VESA chipset. See the next question...

--
Q. I have an "Off Brand" VGA card with 512K of video memory,  how come
I can't access modes greater than 320x200x256 with DATASHOW?

A. If your card  is not based on the VESA chipset, it will not be able
to access modes higher then 320x200x256. See the next question...

--
Q. I have  a VGA card  with a VESA chipset.  All of the modes  but one
works. Why?

A. Sometimes  a video card  will be BASED on  one of  the more popular
chipsets but the similarity stops there.  Sometimes the implementation
is complete, other times it is not.

Some video cards come with a Terminate, Stay Resident (TSR) program to
make  the card emulate the VESA standard.  If you have such a program,
try loading the VESA emulation program and then running DATASHOW.

--
Q. Why can't DATASHOW  support every VGA video card?  There is a stan-
dard for these things, isn't there?

A. The VGA driver has autodetect logic  for the most popular chipsets.
Only  a fool  would make  a statement  that their program  can support
EVERY VGA card ever built. There are just too many variants and really
no standards.

--
Q. Do you really expect people  to send you $50 for a program they al-
ready have?

A. YES!  I believe in Shareware and believe it is the best way to mar-
ket this type of software.  If people  wish to do  more serious things
with DATASHOW  they can only benefit from registering.  That's one  of
the reasons why you don't "get it all" in the unregistered version. In
the registered package you get approx. 100 files, a total of 2 Mb.

--
Q. $50 is sort of inexpensive  for such a powerful program.  Why don't
you charge more?

A. I believe the program is worth more myself (now isn't that strange).
I also believe  that people shouldn't have to spend a small fortune on
their software. All of the documentation for the program is online and
there is no option  for a printed manual (you'll have to print one out
yourself from a registered version Ascii file) or a nice cardboard box,
thereby  keeping costs down.  There is also the savings from using the
Shareware method of distribution.  All of these savings  are passed on
to the user.

--
Q. Where does the name DATASHOW come from?

A. The name DATASHOW  comes from the fact  that you can use it to make
all sorts of SHOWs on a DATA machine. DATA SHOWs in any way you like.

--
Q. I have a suggestion  or a feature  I would like  to see included in
the next release of DATASHOW. Would you like to hear it?

A. Yes!  I don't mind suggestions  or ideas on improving  the program.
Keep in mind  that  I do get  a lot of suggestions  from many sources,
some of which I implement immediately,  some of which I shelve for la-
ter releases.  I do read them all though. I find that if you mail them
to me they are easier to go through than you listing them over a tele-
phone line - therefore please mail suggestions  to me and I'll usually
give you  an answer.  You can also get in touch with me by BBS's  (see
the support list above, where new releases of DataShow are posted).


2.6.1. EXAMPLES/TUTORIAL.
-------------------------
Coincident  with the release  of Version 3.0A  was the release  of the
DATASHOW Example Pack. Compiled by Rene Plambek, this package contains
many examples and tutorials on things you can do with DATASHOW.  It is
available in the packed file EXAMPLES.EXE (self extracts).

Additions to the pack are welcome.  So if you  have made  some scripts
that you would like  to share  with other DATASHOW users,  please send
them to me.

IF you are not a registered user,  and I find the scripts  or drawings
valuable, and of general interest, you'll be able  to get a registered
version with a discount of USD $20. All you have to do is send the ex-
amples to me. I'll then write you a letter telling you if the examples
are OK'ed. If they are, you send me a cheque for USD $30,- and receive
your fully registered version.

The more examples of great ways to use DATASHOW, the better, right?


2.6.2. BUG REPORTS.
-------------------
If you have a problem with the program and think it is a bug, I am in-
terested  in hearing about it.  Before you contact me please make sure
it is a bug by first looking up  the function  in the manual  and also
reading the KNOWN PROBLEMS and the Q and A sections.



2.7. LEGAL STUFF.


Here at the end, a little bit of the boring stuff. But it's necessary,
so please don't hang up yet, - read it anyway.


2.7.1. CREDITS.
---------------
Credit given  where credit is due.  But to mention  only  a few of the
copyrighted materials  that is used in conjunction with DATASHOW would
be unfair to the rest, so as not to leave anyone out this should cover
it.

All names,  copyrights  and trademarks of products  and companies men-
tioned throughout  this documentation  are trademark (TM) and/or copy-
right (C) of their respectful owners.


2.7.2. LEGAL NOTICES AND DISCLAIMER.
------------------------------------
I,  Rene Michael Plambek retain  ALL rights  to distribute and collect
fees for this software.  This software  IS NOT RELEASED  TO THE PUBLIC
DOMAIN!!! IT IS NOT FREE!!! It is OWNED by me and only me!

You, as a user have the right to possess and distribute this software.
YOUR MAY NOT MODIFY,  DISASSEMBLE or change in any way, this document,
the SHOW.EXE file or any other file included in the DATASHOW package.

You may  not collect any fee,  real or otherwise  for  the transfer of
this software.  Exception:  You may recover  the cost of  distribution
(ie:  phone transfer costs, floppy disk/mailers, postage). It is to be
understood,  with the party  that  is charged these fees,  that paying
transfer costs  does not constitute  a registration fee  to the author
and  that  a registration fee  is still required  after evaluating the
software.

All vendors  or business  that wish to distribute DATASHOW  must do so
in accordance with the guidance  set forth above in the section entit-
led "DISTRIBUTION POLICY".

All files  included in this package  must be distributed together  and
may not be modified  in any way  by anyone other than Rene Plambek.  I
reserve the right to refuse anyone the right  to distribute this soft-
ware with a written notice.

DISCLAIMER NOTICE:
------------------
I,  Rene Michael Plambek  accept  no responsibility  for any  damages,
real or otherwise that this program may cause.

I make no guarantees  that this program works as described in this do-
cument file or anywhere else.  This software is provided  "AS IS" with
no guarantee, expressed or implied. Use it at your own risk!

You will hold me harmless from damage,  loss  and expense  arising di-
rectly or indirectly  from your acts and omissions in copying and dis-
tributing the Program.


2.7.3. USERS LICENSE.
---------------------
UNREGISTERED USERS:  Users who have not registered their copy of DATA-
SHOW,  are hereby granted permission  to try DATASHOW  for a period of
one month before they must discontinue using the program or register.

REGISTERED USERS:  Users who have registered DATASHOW may use the pro-
gram on a single computer.  The registered version  of the program may
reside on more then one computer at one time,  provided it is not pos-
sible to use more than one copy at one time.



2.8. SUPPORT.


First off,  if you have a question  and feel that you need to call me,
please  go through  the manual  and see  if your question  is answered
somewhere. If you are calling to tell me that your "supported" card is
having trouble with a certain video mode,  try a new mouse driver. The
best drivers come from Microsoft and Logitech. Mouse drivers have been
causing me a lot of grief. Try a new one, you'll be surprised!

Here is my policy on support:

I like to support you! But I have found it difficult to give "on-line"
phone support. Because questions are often thought better through when
they are written  down on paper,  sending me  a letter  or getting  in
touch with me via one of the listed BBS's is often a better idea.

Also since I live in Europe  the time zone is a bit different.  We are
usually + 6 hours from EST. So you can reach me from 1pm till 4pm EST.
That is 7pm till 10pm Danish (Central European) time.

I do not accept collect calls! I will try to solve any problem you are
having on the spot. If I can't, I'll give you a good time to call back.
Otherwise I'll send you a letter.

If you wish to get in touch with me via BBS, the best way is to log on
to my "home" BBS here in Denmark (Unique - see the phone number above)
and leave me a message.  You can  (if you have a BBS fido net address)
also get in touch with me via Net Mail.


2.8.1. ADDRESSES/NUMBERS.
-------------------------
Letters can be sent to the address  written above under registrations.
You can also contact me via one of these computer addresses.

My FidoNet address is:

    2:235/98.43

My Internet (e-mail) address is:

    rene.plambek@dkb.dk

Except for -occational- vacations,  I check my mail box regularly, and
I will get back to you with an answer as soon as possible!


---------------------------- END OF TEXT -----------------------------