OS/2 Warp Frequently Asked Questions List

By Timothy F. Sipples

Introduction and Credits
OS/2 Warp Frequently Asked Questions List
 * User's Edition (U.S. English)
 * Release 3
 * February 20, 1995

Compiled by Timothy F. Sipples

Copyright (c) 1995 by Timothy F. Sipples All Rights Reserved.

For changes, suggestions, or additions please mail tsipple@vnet.ibm.com or write:
 * Timothy F. Sipples
 * IBM Personal Software
 * One IBM Plaza (07/SS4)
 * Chicago, IL 60611
 * U.S.A.
 * FAX (312) 245-7624

I cannot acknowledge your contribution(s) individually, but they are greatly appreciated.

Mention of a product does not constitute an endorsement. Customers outside the United States should not necessarily rely on 800 telephone numbers, page numbers, part numbers, or upgrade policies contained in this List. Electronic mail addresses are in Internet form; use addressing appropriate to your mail system. Certain product names, including OS/2, OS/2 Warp, and Windows, are trademarks and registered trademarks of their respective holders.

This List is freely distributable for non-commercial purposes. (For commercial purposes, please contact the author.) If you redistribute the List, please include all the original files. The views expressed in this document are not necessarily those of IBM Corp.

This List is updated regularly and is distributed through various computer networks and online services, including the Internet, CompuServe, GEnie, and many BBSes.

Both ASCII text and OS/2 Warp Information Presentation Facility (INF) versions of the List are provided. To view the INF version of the List, go to any OS/2 Warp command line prompt (e.g. double click on "OS/2 Window") and type: VIEW WARPFAQ.INF

The ASCII text version may be viewed using any text editor, word processor, or file listing utility. The text version is intended to answer any questions you may have before actually obtaining and using OS/2 Warp. You will find that the INF version provides a much more attractive List, with hypertext links, fast indexing, and, increasingly, illustrations.

If you have not received all three files (WARPFAQ.ICO, WARPFAQ.INF, and WARPFAQ.TXT), please ask your system operator to make sure he/she is receiving the correct and complete package.

(0.1) Release Notes
However, due to the magnitude of the changes required for this release of the List, revision marking is not included.

BBS operators and archive maintainers: please retain Versions 2.1E, 2.0L, and 1.9G of this List, the last versions to deal specifically with OS/2 Versions 2.1x, 2.0x, and 1.3x, respectively.

(0.2) Recent Developments
OS/2 Warp Version 3 is here! Please see (0.4) for the latest on this exciting new release.

To coincide with the release of OS/2 Warp Version 3, over 40 software developers have announced new software products. Here is a sampling: Other vendors expect to ship major new OS/2 Warp applications later this year, including Corel Office (including Corel Draw 6) from Corel Systems, Macromedia's Director (for multimedia presentations), games such as Doom and SimCity 2000, and even the first home "edutainment" CD-ROM title from CBS and IBM.

Independent estimates now put the OS/2 installed base at over eight million users. At the time of this writing, OS/2 Warp ranks as the top selling PC software in the marketplace.

The IBM Independent Vendor League offices have moved. For general information on the IVL, contact Lucy Darbisi at 203-452-7704 or by FAX at 203-268-1075. For product accreditation and support please call Gail Ostrow at 203-384-9996 or FAX 203-368-6379. The Independent Vendor League supports OS/2 Warp consultants, book authors, trainers, and other professionals.

(0.4) Special Report on OS/2 Warp
"It's time..." -- Leonard Nimoy

On October 11, 1994, IBM announced its boldest entry into the burgeoning home and small office software market, OS/2 Warp Version 3. Widespread on-the-shelf availability of OS/2 Warp occurred on November 4th in the United States.

OS/2 Warp is the latest in a line of releases which have achieved broad acceptance in corporations around the world (and in many other segments of the software market). Over eight million people use OS/2 today, and that number just keeps growing. However, previous releases were criticized for being difficult to install, short on the list of included device drivers, consuming too much memory, an "industrial" appearance rather than a flashy one, and having bundled applications which were not appealing. In short, it was criticized for not appealing strongly enough to home and small business users, many of whom are struggling with an ageing 16-bit Windows environment and who are craving for something better.

Nonetheless, OS/2 has always been praised for its reliability, superior compatibility with existing DOS and Windows applications, true preemptive multitasking system-wide, and a state-of-the-art 32-bit programming environment for friendlier and more powerful applications. Features which have made it the most popular 32-bit software in the world and which have earned it over 50 major awards, including PC Magazine's Editor's Choice and Infoworld's Product of the Year.

IBM has, quite simply, "consumerized" OS/2 in creating OS/2 Warp. OS/2 Warp is the fastest, friendliest, and most powerful version of OS/2 yet. And, in concentrating on improving OS/2 in areas which matter most to home and small business users, IBM has ended up making OS/2 better for everyone, especially for current Windows users.

Here is but a sampling of the features and improvements you'll find in OS/2 Warp:
 * Lower memory requirements. OS/2 Warp really runs on a PC with as little as 4 MB of memory, and it races on a system with 8 MB. But no matter how much memory your PC has, OS/2 Warp now gives more memory to applications. That means speed, and that means you finish your work faster. And, naturally, since this is OS/2, memory management woes are a thing of the distant past. Get over 600K of free base memory in your DOS sessions, even after all your drivers are loaded. (Get over 700K free if your DOS application requires no more than CGA graphics!)
 * Enhanced Workplace Shell. OS/2's Workplace Shell has been praised for its ease-of-use for quite some time, but there are still major improvements to it in OS/2 Warp. A new LaunchPad lets you drag and drop the programs, folders, and other objects you use most frequently to a quick-access button bar. The LaunchPad is fully customizable, and it's always ready when you need it. The Workplace Shell now has palette awareness (so background bitmaps always look their best), "Comet Cursor" so you won't lose track of your mouse pointer, customizable mouse pointers, Pickup and Drop menus (so you won't have to open, shift, and resize windows before you drag and drop), automatic closing of parent folders (if desired) and an Open Parent menu option, animated icons (so that folders actually pop open when you double click), backup and recovery of your desktop (so you never lose your setup), an Undo Arrange option (if you accidentally rearrange your desktop when you didn't mean to), opaque background icon text (so they really stand out against a complex background bitmap), drag and drop setting of background bitmaps, and much more. And the default colour scheme? Dull, boring grey is gone, replaced with a soothing teal background and much more colourful icons. Plus it's easier than ever to find objects, thanks to the much simplified Find window (just a single click away from the LaunchPad).
 * Performance improvements. With the addition of new 32-bit code, the Workplace Shell is now much speedier. Folders pop open and close in record time. Shutdown races for the finish. Printing benefits from a new 32-bit engine, so more complex images are processed more swiftly. And printing no longer requires that you dedicate a precious interrupt (IRQ 7) to the task, very convenient for AT bus systems. OS/2 Warp can handle the hard disk much faster, particularly when formatting and checking (CHKDSK) the disk, particularly with the High Performance File System (HPFS). OS/2 Warp starts up faster (and with many fewer, if any, distracting device driver messages). Most importantly, perhaps, the "industrial" OS/2 logo you saw in previous releases has been replaced with a sleek new OS/2 Warp logo (which you can even use as a background bitmap).
 * Installation. Installation has been a sore point for many first-time OS/2 users. The problem wasn't so much that their hardware devices weren't supported, it was that available device drivers were not included with OS/2. OS/2 Warp changes that, with generous built-in support for both older and newer video cards, CD-ROM drives (even non-SCSI models, including IDE drives), sound cards, TV tuner cards, video capture cards, mice, printers, PCMCIA, and SCSI cards. You won't have to go fishing for OS/2 device drivers nearly as often (if at all). Plus there's now a one-button "Easy Install" option. OS/2 Warp will automatically interrogate your PC to find out what hardware is installed then put in the correct device drivers. Without asking dozens of questions. Multimedia support is now part of the main installation -- no tacked-on procedure. Selective Uninstall lets you deselect and remove those features you thought you might want but really didn't need -- no more poking around your \OS2 directory, hoping you delete the right files.
 * BonusPak. Gone are most of the "applets" found in previous releases of OS/2 (although you may use them from your prior release of OS/2). Instead, IBM has spent a considerable amount of time collecting true 32-bit OS/2 applications which are both useful and which demonstrate the power of OS/2 Warp. About a dozen applications are included in the BonusPak, accompanied by a friendly installation program (which, if you have a sound card, will even play music). The BonusPak applications include:
 * System Information Tool. Do you remember how large your hard disk is? How many colors your video card is displaying with OS/2 Warp? How sensitive your mouse is? How much memory you have installed? Visit the System Information Tool to find out the answers to these questions and more. Part of the high-end IBM Netfinity for OS/2 hardware management product, it's now yours free of charge in OS/2 Warp. There's even a feature to list all the device drivers in your OS/2 Warp system, along with version dates.
 * Internet Connection. Certainly the highlight of the entire BonusPak, this set of applications (including Gopher, Ultimedia Mail, Telnet, ftp, and so on) gets you connected to the entire Internet using a dial-up SLIP connection. Registration on the IBM Global Network is a simple button click, and you don't have to memorize arcane commands or learn about IP addresses. You can also use your own Internet provider if you do not wish to use IBM's. However, you get three free hours of connect time on the IBM Global Network with every copy of OS/2 Warp. Send and receive Internet mail (even mail with sound and video attachments), explore the World Wide Web with the IBM Web Explorer, browse weather maps and online library catalogs with Gopher, and even chat with other OS/2 Warp and Internet users in the Internet's newsgroups. And, only with OS/2 Warp, you don't have to wait while you are downloading a file or complex Web document - go do something else. OS/2 Warp delivers real multitasking, so you never have to wait.
 * Person to Person. For desktop videoconferencing and collaboration on projects, or for a new way of communicating that's just plain fun, IBM's Person to Person is included with the BonusPak. Person to Person gives you a Chalkboard which lets you share bitmaps (including copies of spreadsheets, documents, and other windows on your desktop) with other Person to Person users across a network, by modem, or even over the Internet Connection. What you draw or put in your Chalkboard is immediately sent to all the other people in your Person to Person "conference call." You can also share the contents of your Clipboard and carry on a live conversation by keyboard. With appropriate hardware, you can also transmit live video. Save plane fare and work on projects with your friends and colleagues without actually being in the same room.
 * Compuserve Information Manager. Access Compuserve in grand style. There's even an icon for the OS/2 forums, so you can get speedy answers to your OS/2 Warp questions.
 * HyperAccess. Dial up BBSes, Dow Jones, MCI Mail, BIX, GEnie, and many other online services with this richly featured communications software. It even includes dialling directories and ZModem. And, remember, downloading or uploading a file under OS/2 Warp doesn't mean you have to wait to do something else.
 * Faxworks. Send and receive faxes of unlimited length using the most popular fax software for OS/2, Faxworks. You can even send faxes from DOS and Windows applications. Simply print to a printer port (LPT3 by default) as if it were an IBM Proprinter X24E. Faxworks will automatically log all traffic so that you can review it at any time. It supports drag and drop faxing, and it is even integrated with the phone book in IBM Works.
 * IBM Works. Real word processing (with spell checking), database, charting, spreadsheet, address book, phone book, calendar, and other applications for getting essential work done, right out of the box, with OS/2 Warp. All these applications are tightly integrated, thanks to OS/2 Warp's System Object Model. Drag a spreadsheet into your word processing document and it's linked. No arcane menu options or contortions required. The IBM Works Event Monitor will even notify you when you have an appointment you need to keep and, thanks to OS/2 Warp's real multitasking, you won't miss that notification just because your computer is doing something else.
 * Multimedia Viewer. An application which gives your computer the ability to deal with "foreign" multimedia files, everything from Kodak Photo CD images to Sun .AU audio files from the Internet. There's even a Light Table (a new folder type which you can use anywhere in the Workplace Shell) which gives thumbnails of all your bitmaps and images to let you catalog and categorize your collection. If you are a photographer, or use desktop publishing, think of all the time you'll save.
 * Video IN. Formerly a $199 product by itself, IBM Ultimedia Video IN is included free of charge in the BonusPak. Winner of Byte Magazine's Best of Comdex award, Video IN lets you record software motion video files (AVI files) in either Ultimotion or Indeo formats. You can record in real time or from still images (images which come either from sets of bitmaps or from a computer controlled laserdisc player). Many popular video capture cards are supported for recording from external video sources. However, you don't need a video capture card to use Video IN. You can construct an animated weather sequence (like the ones you see on television) from weather images you download from the Internet, for example.
 * DOS and Windows capabilities. With the new Windows FastLoad option, you can preload all of the Windows environment under OS/2 Warp when you boot, so that Windows applications that you start from the Workplace Shell pop up in no time flat. And OS/2 Warp supports those very few applications which require Win32s (such as MathCAD). For DOS and Windows programs, OS/2 adds better virtual DMA handling, which means applications such as games will run smoother and faster. And creating a program object for a DOS or Windows application will automatically pull in the correct settings from OS/2's database - it's no longer a separate procedure. IBM even includes settings for over 250 of the most popular DOS, Windows, and OS/2 games.
 * System recovery options. What did you do if OS/2 couldn't boot? You may have had to reinstall in the past. No longer. Now OS/2 Warp comes with several great features to let you figure out what went wrong (and, more importantly, to prevent something from going wrong in the first place). A small OS/2 character mode text editor is now included on your OS/2 Warp boot diskettes, so you can change critical files without the Workplace Shell, if need be. You can now make a set of utility diskettes (for emergencies) using a program in the System Setup folder. A Maintenance Desktop is provided alongside your regular desktop (and you can even use it while OS/2 Warp itself is installing). When you boot OS/2, you will now see a white box in the upper left hand corner followed by "OS/2." Hit ALT-F1, and a menu pops up with several options (such as immediately dropping to a command line, using archived desktops, etc). You can even choose to have this menu display at every bootup, with or without a timeout. Hit ALT-F2, and you see a list of every device driver load, as it loads, so if your system is stalling you can determine the exact problem. There are queue enhancements to prevent lockups. Hit CTRL-ESC if an application grabs control of the input queue, and you are back in charge much quicker. Plus you can now (optionally) enable type ahead, so that you can start typing before an application loads.
 * Multimedia enhancements. Beyond the features in the BonusPak (Video IN and the Multimedia Viewer), the base OS/2 multimedia features have been enhanced and improved. Support is built-in for compressed audio formats (including ADPCM) so that you can record and play back WAV files which take up far less disk space. MPEG video is supported with the Reel Magic card. You can display live video signals in a window on your OS/2 desktop with such cards as the Win/TV. Performance is much improved, and the amount of memory required for multimedia is lower. New system sounds and sound effects are provided. Additional multimedia files (including Kodak Photo CD images) are included on the CD-ROM version of OS/2 Warp. The DIVE (Direct Interface Video Extensions) API has been enhanced, to better support fast action games and animation under OS/2.
 * Miscellaneous. There are literally thousands of other improvements in OS/2 Warp. For example, the credits screen is now back. If you have installed the optional bitmaps, you can now find out who created OS/2 Warp by clicking once on the desktop background and pressing CTRL-ALT-SHIFT-O (i.e. hold down CTRL, ALT, and SHIFT, and tap the letter O key). Colour palettes have been separated into Mixed Colours and Solid Colours, so you can pick colours that will look good even on a 16 colour VGA system. Scheme palettes are larger and have more exciting selections. The Information folder contains quite a bit more detailed information and many more documents (while the plain text README file has rightly shrunk) on topics such as performance considerations and Windows programs in OS/2. The Tutorial is both artistic and useful, with a button for Windows users to learn equivalent functions, a Practice button (to let you practice new steps), and a Do It button (to let the Tutorial actually perform a task, such as opening the Games folder). The OS/2 Mahjongg game is included in the base installation. DOS programs such as the DOS Editor and MSD, and the Win-OS/2 Program Manager, are automatically placed as program objects in the appropriate folders. Adobe Type Manager can now be turned off for Windows programs (the default). A SESSION_PRIORITY setting allows for boosting the responsiveness of individual DOS or Windows programs. OS/2 Warp will install over (and use, for running Windows applications) Windows 3.1 and 3.11, and Windows for Workgroups 3.1 and 3.11.

The best news is that, aside from the much maligned applets in OS/2 2.x, nothing was taken away from OS/2 Warp. The most popular 32-bit operating system for the PC was simply made better for everyone.


 * What versions of OS/2 Warp are available?

OS/2 Warp will be available across the entire range of OS/2 products. OS/2 Warp Version 3 is the first. This product is an upgrade for DOS, Windows, and OS/2 for Windows users. It uses an existing copy of Windows or Windows for Workgroups on your PC's hard disk to provide compatibility with Windows applications. (If a copy of Windows is not available, OS/2 Warp Version 3 will still support DOS and OS/2 applications.)

Next, OS/2 Warp Version 3 with Win-OS/2, now available, is designed as an upgrade for "full pack" OS/2 users or for new PCs without DOS/Windows. It is identical to OS/2 Warp Version 3 except that it contains Windows code (to run Windows applications).

Other versions of OS/2 Warp (for SMP and networking) are also planned. If you purchase OS/2 Warp now, a discounted upgrade to the so-called network version of OS/2 Warp will be available. (The upgrade consists of a larger BonusPak; the base OS/2 Warp software does not fundamentally change.)


 * Can I upgrade from "full pack" OS/2 2.x to OS/2 Warp Version 3?

The short answer is no, that OS/2 Warp Version 3 with Win-OS/2 is a more convenient upgrade. However, if you are willing to reformat, you can purchase and install OS/2 Warp Version 3 to run DOS and OS/2 applications. If you install Windows before installing OS/2 Warp Version 3, you can also run Windows applications. IBM does not recommend such an upgrade without reformatting. Or, at the very least, you should completely remove all traces of OS/2 (with Win-OS/2) from a diskette boot. That means you should remove the following directories: \Desktop \Nowhere \Delete \OS2 \MMOS2 \PSFonts \Spool and the following files: AUTOEXEC.BAT CONFIG.SYS OS2BOOT OS2KRNL OS2LDR OS2LDR.MSG OS2VER README WP ROOT. SF Since I have to install Windows from DOS, how can I create an OS/2 Warp Version 3 system with 100% HPFS?

If you wish to run with no DOS (FAT) file systems (all HPFS), it is more convenient to use OS/2 Warp Version 3 with Win-OS/2, now available. However, it can still be accomplished with OS/2 Warp Version 3 (without Win-OS/2) by following these steps:
 * 1) Create an empty FAT drive on any PC;
 * 2) Boot DOS from diskette and escape to the command line;
 * 3) Insert Windows Diskette 1 in Drive A and enter SETUP;
 * 4) Install Windows (Custom install preferable);
 * 5) Using a utility such as PKZIP, create a set of diskettes which contains the entire contents of the \WINDOWS directory just created;
 * 6) Install OS/2 Warp Version 3, reformatting everything to HPFS in the process;
 * 7) From a DOS command line, restore the contents of the \WINDOWS directory to the same drive (Drive C, for example) where it was originally installed and set these backup diskettes aside for future use (label them "Win-OS/2");
 * 8) Run OS/2 Warp's Selective Install, pass by the first panel, and make sure that the checkbox next to Win-OS/2 is checked, then click on the Install button;
 * 9) Insert original Windows diskettes when prompted;
 * 10) Shutdown and reboot.

Alternatively, you can use a free utility called WSETUP, available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources, to install Windows 3.1 from within OS/2 Warp. Or you can use a new product, Partition Magic from PowerQuest, which can convert a DOS FAT hard disk into HPFS, on-the-fly, retaining all existing files in the process.


 * Does OS/2 Warp support Windows VxDs?

No. OS/2 Warp Version 3 does not support VxDs (or, more precisely, VxDs which compromise system integrity are not supported). Microsoft is actively discouraging use of VxDs (because applications which use them cannot run under NT and may not run under Windows95), and IBM recommends that you not invest in software which requires them. Most software vendors will probably be releasing updates of their products which do not use VxDs (or native OS/2 Warp versions of their applications).

Fortunately, the number of applications which require VxDs is very small, and, of those applications, most are related to networking (for which there are most often superior native OS/2 alternatives).


 * Will OS/2 Warp Version 3 get rid of my DOS and Windows when I install it?

Absolutely not. Like a good application would, OS/2 Warp Version 3 leaves your native environment untouched, so you can always return to it safely and conveniently. DOS/Windows is preserved using DualBoot by default. (Boot Manager is also available.) You can even use OS/2 Warp's OSDELETE command (from an OS/2 diskette boot) to remove OS/2 Warp should you wish to do so. Install OS/2 Warp Version 3 with confidence.


 * Can OS/2 Warp read my drives compressed with Stacker, DoubleSpace, DriveSpace, or SuperStor?

Not by itself. It will safely ignore such drives if they exist. If you would like to continue using compressed drives, then Stacker Version 4 for OS/2 is right for you. Stacker for OS/2 can not only read and write Stacker compressed drives, but it can also safely convert DoubleSpace, DriveSpace, and SuperStor compressed drives to the more popular Stacker format.


 * How do I get OS/2 Warp Version 3?

Walk into any software dealership and ask for it. It is readily and widely available to all software dealers, either directly from IBM or through distributors. The best price is available through your dealer, although you can order the product from IBM directly.


 * How much does OS/2 Warp Version 3 cost?

With all of OS/2 Warp's features, including the BonusPak, the U.S. single unit price is usually under $80 (list price is $129).

Discounted upgrades to OS/2 Warp Version 3 are available for the following users (U.S. terms):
 * OS/2 for Windows (purchased August 1, 1994, to December 31, 1994): $50 off (only with rebate coupon affixed to box).
 * All other OS/2 for Windows users: $25 off (only with in-store rebate coupon, if available).

OS/2 Warp Version 3 with Win-OS/2 has a list price of $199. A discounted upgrade to OS/2 Warp Version 3 with Win-OS/2 is available to all OS/2 2.1x "full pack" users and carries a list price of $129. Estimated street price on the upgrade is under $80.

Other discounts may apply for additional licenses, VALU agreements, etc. Pricing and availability may vary outside the United States, so consult your local OS/2 software dealer for details.


 * OS/2 Warp is available on what types of media?

OS/2 Warp Version 3 (and OS/2 Warp Version 3 with Win-OS/2) are available on 3.5 inch diskettes and CD-ROM (with 3.5 inch boot diskettes). OS/2 is no longer available on 5.25 inch diskettes. See (4.2).


 * How much does it cost to use the IBM Global Network for the Internet Connection?

Rates vary by country, so no one answer will necessarily apply. The latest rate information for your country is displayed when you first register with the IBM Global Network using OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection. You are asked then to agree to the terms. Three hours of free access are provided with every copy of OS/2 Warp, and you will not incur any charges until you use more than three hours or fail to cancel your account within three months of registering.

In the United States, there are two primary rate plans: either $12.95 for 6 hours per month or $29.95 for 30 hours per month (with per hour charges for additional hours). Generally speaking, you will enjoy lower rates for accessing the Internet through the IBM Global Network if you do not live in a major city (where other Internet providers may be competing) or if you travel and need access from two or more locations. The IBM Global Network provides worldwide access with local dial-up numbers all over the world. Most other Internet providers only provide service within a specific metropolitan area. OS/2 Warp provides the capability to connect either with the IBM Global Network or an Internet provider of your choice, so you should feel free to shop for the most attractive rates for your situation. Most independent Internet providers will readily assist you in configuring OS/2 Warp to access their services, so do not hesitate to ask.


 * Can I use Warp's Internet Connection with IBM TCP/IP for OS/2?

Yes. This combination is now supported by IBM. Make sure that you install the latest Service Pak(s) for IBM TCP/IP for OS/2, however. Also, when the OS/2 Warp Internet Dialer is active, all TCP/IP traffic will be routed through your dial-up connection (and traffic through your network card will be suspended). When you close the Dialer, traffic will resume through your network card.

I can't wait for the so-called network version of OS/2 Warp. How do I get OS/2 Warp to use my network card to access the Internet?

Assuming your network card is connected into the Internet already (perhaps at a university), any of the following software packages will allow OS/2 Warp's Internet software to work over your network card:
 * IBM LAN Server 4 Requester (Client) for OS/2
 * IBM DCE Client Kit for OS/2
 * IBM AnyNet/2
 * IBM TCP/IP Version 2 for OS/2 Base Services Kit with latest Service Pak

The least expensive of these (under $50 typically) is the LAN Server 4 requester. However, it is not sold separately with diskettes. The diskettes for the requester are bundled with IBM LAN Server 4. If you know someone who has IBM LAN Server 4, you can legally obtain a copy of the requester from that person if you purchase a separate license card for the requester from IBM or any IBM software dealer.

The DCE Client is the second least expensive (under $65 typically) method, and diskettes are provided (not just the right to copy) when you purchase it.

Please note that when you are using OS/2 Warp's Internet Dialer, all traffic will be routed over the dial-up connection and any traffic over the network card will be suspended. If you close the Internet Dialer, traffic over your network card will resume. Also please be advised that IBM has not completed testing on OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection in combination with any product which provides TCP/IP for network cards except for IBM TCP/IP Version 2 with the latest Service Pak. Nonetheless, many OS/2 Warp users are using these suggested combinations of products with great success and little apparent difficulty. IBM expects to officially "bless" these suggested combinations in the near future.


 * Will all my current software work with OS/2 Warp?

With very few exceptions, yes. IBM has tested OS/2 Warp against huge numbers of applications and networking packages, including the Novell Netware Client Kit for OS/2, Communications Manager, IBM TCP/IP for OS/2, the LAN Server requester, and much more. Any specific application notes are contained in the Application Considerations online document, located in the Information folder in OS/2 Warp.

(1.0) Fundamentals
The following questions are addressed in this section:

(1.1) What is OS/2 Warp?
OS/2 Warp is an advanced operating system for PCs with an 80386 processor or better. It was developed by IBM as the successor to DOS, the operating system developed for the original IBM PC.

OS/2 started as a joint project between IBM and Microsoft in the mid 1980s and was first released in late 1987 (at that time designed for the IBM PC/AT and other 80286-based systems). Microsoft was a public and vocal supporter of OS/2 for years, issuing several of its own releases and promoting OS/2 application development. Bill Gates, for example, stated that, "...OS/2 is the platform of the '90s." However, OS/2 versions from 1.3 onward have been the responsibility of IBM.

OS/2 Warp was designed from the ground up with preemptive multitasking and multithreading in mind. "Preemptive multitasking" means that the operating system is responsible for allocating processor time to the one or more applications which are running. (Cooperative multitasking, as found in Microsoft Windows or the Macintosh's System 7, requires that each application surrender the processor after a certain amount of time. If one application refuses to yield, all the other applications stop running.) "Multithreading" means that programs can start subtasks which will then be executed by the operating system in the background. For example, a word processor may create a separate thread (subtask) to handle printing or saving to disk. When the user asks the word processor to perform one of these tasks, the word processor creates a new thread and control returns to the word processor (and the user) immediately. The subtask is executed by the operating system in the background. The user is then free to ask the word processor to perform another task without waiting for the thread to complete. Applications which utilitize multithreading can be much more responsive to the user.

OS/2 Warp also protects applications from one another (a single misbehaved program will not typically disrupt the entire system), supports all addressable physical RAM, and supplies virtual memory to applications as requested, breaking DOS's 640K barrier.

An OS/2 Warp demonstration diskette (which will run on any PC with VGA or better, and DOS or OS/2) is available from IBM by calling 800-3-IBM-OS2. The OS/2 Warp demo diskette may also be downloaded; see (3.2).

(1.2) Differences Between Versions
What are the differences between versions?


 * IBM OS/2 Warp, Version 3 is the newest and most advanced version of OS/2 ever created. This release is aimed squarely at the rapidly growing home and small business software market. Yet, in addressing the concerns of these demanding consumers, it offers significant advantages to the large number of traditional IBM and OS/2 users, including those in big businesses and government. A few of the enhancements include a BonusPak of full fledged applications (including one button access to the Internet), the LaunchPad, many more device drivers, and significant performance improvements. Please see (0.4) for more information.
 * IBM OS/2 Version 2.1 is the previous release of OS/2, which added Windows 3.1 compatibility, multimedia support (including software motion video), and more device drivers. With Version 2.1 IBM ended the practice of including extra features in its own, preinstalled versions of OS/2 that were not found in the off-the-shelf package. OS/2 2.1x and OS/2 for Windows propelled OS/2 into the mainstream PC marketplace. The latest Service Pak for OS/2 2.1 is level 06300.
 * IBM OS/2 Version 2.0 is the first release of OS/2 which will run only on machines with an 80386SX processor or better. With this release IBM started developing OS/2 (and its Intel and non-Intel-based successors) independently but continued to involve third party PC manufacturers in its testing. Improvements included an object-oriented Workplace Shell (WPS); a multiple operating system boot mechanism; better DOS and Windows support [see (1.3) ]; new 32-bit programming interfaces; support for more than 16 MB of physical RAM [see (2.6) ]; and more third party device drivers. OS/2 1.x applications, unmodified, still run under OS/2 2.0 (and later).
 * IBM OS/2 Version 1.3 is the last release of OS/2 to operate on PCs with 80286 CPUs. This version introduced built-in Adobe Type Manager (ATM) [see (5.5) ], providing scalable typefaces for screen and printer. Procedures Language/2 (REXX), a powerful batch-oriented programming language, became a part of Standard Edition with this release. [See (5.11) .] (A few vendors are shipping Microsoft OS/2 Version 1.3, but Microsoft has ceded all OS/2 development to IBM.)
 * OS/2 Version 1.2 was the first to incorporate the High Performance File System (HPFS) [see (1.5) High Performance File System]. With this release IBM OS/2 added a dual boot mechanism and IBM Extended Edition [see (3.10) Extended Services] introduced REXX.
 * OS/2 Version 1.1 was the first to include the Presentation Manager (PM) GUI/API. Microsoft OEM versions added a dual boot mechanism with this release.
 * OS/2 Version 1.0, introduced in late 1987, was the first release of OS/2. Task switching was accomplished using a character-based shell and limited DOS compatibility was provided.

Versions of OS/2 from 2.1 on have been made available in two packages: one containing built-in Windows code to run Windows applications (sometimes called the "with Win-OS/2" or "full" package) and the other which can use an existing copy of Windows (optional) to run Windows applications (the "for Windows" or "without Win-OS/2" package).

(1.3) DOS and Windows Compatibility

 * How good is OS/2 Warp's DOS and Windows compatibility?

OS/2 1.x [see (1.2) Differences Between Versions] justifiably earned a reputation for poor DOS compatibility. Since it was hampered by the 80286, it could not run more than one DOS application at a time.

The situation changed dramatically with OS/2 2.0, and OS/2 Warp adds further refinements. OS/2 Warp Version 3 preemptively multitasks DOS and Windows (standard and enhanced mode, including Win32s) applications in separate, protected sessions.

OS/2 Warp provides a complete DOS emulation equivalent to DOS 5.0 or later. The operating system can provide each DOS application with up to 32 MB of EMS 4.0 (expanded memory), 16 MB of XMS 2.0 (extended memory), and/or 512 MB of DPMI 0.95 (DOS Protected Mode Interface extended memory), all from its pool of physical and/or virtual memory (meaning you do not have to have as much RAM in your system as your applications request). These limits are in addition to the up to 730K free conventional memory supplied to each DOS application, even after mouse and network drivers [see (3.8) Networking Products] are loaded. As in DOS 5.0 or later, DOS code and device drivers may be loaded into high memory. A 386 memory manager like QEMM is not needed - these features are provided by OS/2 Warp directly.

The DOS emulation allows customization of device driver sets - each DOS application shares a system-wide CONFIG.SYS and the equivalent of its own CONFIG.SYS. Also, there is a system-wide AUTOEXEC.BAT file; however, batch commands particular to each DOS application can be invoked using separate, application-specific AUTOEXEC.BAT files. And many DOS Settings are provided to fine tune [see (5.6) Performance Tuning] each DOS/Windows application's behaviour (e.g. IDLE_SENSITIVITY and SESSION_PRIORITY). Most of the popular DOS/Windows applications on your hard disk will be migrated automatically when you install OS/2 Warp, so that program icons will be set up for them. Applications which are automatically recognized include over 250 of the most popular DOS, Windows, and OS/2 games.

In addition, OS/2 Warp will boot one or more specific versions of DOS in separate sessions, to assist in running particularly difficult applications (e.g. DOS networks, MSCDEX and CD-ROM drivers). So, for example, it is possible to multitask DOS 3.3, DOS 4.0, DOS 5.0, DOS 6.0, DOS 6.2, PC-DOS 6.3, DR-DOS, OS/2 Warp's DOS, and DESQview running atop DOS, all in separate sessions, either windowed or full screen, all with the same and/or separate device drivers, TSRs, environment variables, etc. DOS boot images may be stored on a hard disk. These procedures are described in the online Command Reference (under VMDISK), Master Help Index, and in the printed manual. See also (5.9).

Standard graphics modes generally up to VGA resolutions; see (2.2) are supported in DOS windows, as are selectable text mode fonts. Cut/paste to/from windowed DOS applications is supported (to/from other DOS, OS/2, and Windows applications), including graphics cut/paste. Theoretically, OS/2 Warp can run up to 240 simultaneous DOS/Windows sessions; the practical maximum depends on your PC's performance.

OS/2 Warp will, in fact, run virtually all DOS applications in existence, including notorious ones such as Microsoft Flight Simulator, Wing Commander, Maple, MatLab (Version 3.5k or later), AutoCAD (Release 12 requires maintenance version C2 or later), and others. Those that do not run generally fall into the following categories:
 * 1) Programs that use Virtual Control Program Interface (VCPI) memory extenders or other extenders which require direct access to 80386 control registers. Since such applications are also all but incompatible with Windows, most vendors have updates for DPMI compatibility;
 * 2) Applications which attempt to directly address the physical sectors of an OS/2 managed non-removable hard disk drive. Such programs include UnErase in Norton Utilities [see (3.4) Disk Utilities]. Fortunately OS/2 Warp has a built-in UnDelete feature which is more robust than Norton's approach. (Consult the online Command Reference for information on how to enable UNDELETE);
 * 3) Timing sensitive DOS applications. Certain DOS programs that generate digitized sound through the PC's internal speaker may have distorted sound. High speed, real time data collection may be compromised. These problems can often be minimized or even eliminated using OS/2 Warp's DOS Settings, including the SESSION_PRIORITY setting.
 * 4) Certain DOS programming debuggers. DOS applications running under OS/2 Warp are not permitted to access debug registers DR0-DR7 from a DOS session. Also, DOS debuggers will not be able to set hardware breakpoints, and all read/write operations to debug registers in virtual 8086 mode will be ignored.

See (3.12) for information on OS/2 backup issues.

DOS-based disk caching software is not required since OS/2 Warp includes a built-in, highly configurable, efficient disk cache (available even for CD-ROMs). See the online Command Reference for details.

DOS programs running under OS/2 Warp are extremely fast. A single DOS application (no other applications open) running full screen under OS/2 Warp typically achieves 95-97% of the performance it would have under native DOS. If the DOS application accesses the hard disk frequently, such as with database software, it can actually operate up to several times faster than it would if running under native DOS.

If pure DOS is absolutely required, OS/2 Warp includes a utility called the Boot Manager. The Boot Manager can provide a listing of all the operating systems available on the system and will allow selection of any one at startup, with a default after timeout. The OS/2 DualBoot method (to switch between DOS and OS/2 only) is still available as well. Consult the printed OS/2 Warp manual for instructions on how to use Boot Manager or DualBoot. Note that OS/2 Warp need not be installed on Drive C - it can reside on other volumes see (4.3).

Compatibility with Windows, a popular DOS extender, is provided by either Win-OS/2, an environment based on Microsoft's Windows source code, or by an actual copy of Windows 3.1, Windows 3.11, Windows for Workgroups 3.1, or Windows for Workgroups 3.11. See (1.2) for details. OS/2 Warp supports Windows 3.x enhanced mode (including Win32s) and standard mode applications, either on a full screen Windows desktop (with the familiar Program Manager and one or more Windows applications) or "seamlessly," alongside OS/2 applications on the Workplace Shell desktop. "Seamless" operation is available with all video drivers that ship with OS/2 Warp (VGA or better). See (2.2).

Several icon conversion utilities can convert Windows icons for use by the OS/2 Icon Editor and/or OS/2-specific programs see (3.2). (No conversion is necessary if the icons are to be used with Windows programs running under OS/2 Warp.)

OS/2 Warp directly provides all Windows enhanced mode features save one: support for Windows virtual drivers (VxD). Services provided by WINMEM32.DLL and Win32s are supported. See (0.4) for more information.

Windows applications are well integrated into the overall OS/2 Workplace Shell environment with DDE and Clipboard hooks, and OLE (Object Linking and Embedding) is supported among Windows applications. Adobe Type Manager [see (5.5) Adobe Type Manager] comes with OS/2 Warp (for both OS/2 and Windows applications), and TrueType fonts still work fine with Windows applications. Windows screen (for a full screen desktop) and printer device drivers will work under Win-OS/2 [see (2.2) SuperVGA Support]. Such notorious Windows applications as Word, Norton Desktop (save portions described above), Toolbook, and After Dark work fine under Win-OS/2. Even applications which rely on the Windows Multimedia Extensions (supplied as part of Windows and Win-OS/2) operate without trouble. [See (3.6) Multimedia for information on the OS/2 multimedia extensions, MMPM/2.] Even the Windows applets run just fine.

OS/2 Warp's Windows support (called Win-OS/2) departs from plain Microsoft Windows in that it allows more than one Windows desktop and can preemptively (rather than cooperatively) multitask Windows applications in separate, robust, protected sessions, at the user's option. Also, both DOS and OS/2 applications can be started from the Win-OS/2 Program Manager.

In short, OS/2 Warp is generally regarded as the most DOS and Windows compatible among the new crop of 32-bit operating systems (NT included). It is also generally regarded as a better DOS multitasker than DESQview.

(1.4) Availability and Cost of OS/2 Warp

 * Where can I buy OS/2 Warp, and how much does it cost?

In the United States IBM OS/2 Warp Version 3 is available directly from IBM by calling 800-3-IBM-OS2. Call for the latest information on pricing - promotional pricing may be in effect. Both diskette (3.5 inch media) and CD-ROM versions are available. The CD-ROM version contains diskette images (so you can create a set of installation diskettes from the CD-ROM) as well as extra multimedia and Kodak Photo CD files. Express shipping is provided with all orders placed through this toll free number.

IBM part numbers are as follows: Upgrade packages are designed to upgrade OS/2 2.1 or 2.11. "ALC" means Additional License Certificate, in other words simply a license card (without manuals or media) representing the right to use OS/2 Warp on an additional PC.

OS/2 Warp is now available from almost any software dealer (including Corporate Software, Egghead, Software Etc., and many others). Software dealer pricing is lower than that available directly from IBM - often $10 or $20 lower.

OS/2 Warp costs about the same as Microsoft Windows for DOS and roughly one fifth to one third as much as the base (not to mention server) versions of Windows NT, NeXTStep, Solaris, and UnixWare.

In Canada phone 800-465-1234 to order. In the U.K. phone the OS/2 Solution Centre at 0285-655888 or IBM at 0256-841818 or 0800-919-929. In all countries, any IBM software dealer or office can fulfil your OS/2 Warp order. Pricing varies from country to country.

IBM is trying to make OS/2 Warp available everywhere DOS is purchased. If your dealer does not stock OS/2 Warp, take your business elsewhere (and explain why). IBM bundles OS/2 Warp with most new PCs, and several other vendors, including AST, Compaq, Everex, Northgate, ALR, Unisys, Dell, Ariel Design, Vobis, Escom, Toshiba, Osbourne, and Tangent, will either preload OS/2 Warp automatically or by request.

IBM offers two money back guarantees in the U.S.: a 30-day, no questions asked, money back guarantee, and a 90-day compatibility guarantee [see (2.1) Hardware Requirements].

If you intend to purchase many copies (usually over 100) of any IBM software product (including OS/2 Warp), be sure to ask your software dealer or IBM representative about VALU agreements. Using VALU, you can save significant amounts of money on your software purchases and benefit from special promotions.

In many countries outside the United States, a fully functioning 45-day trial version of OS/2 Warp on CD-ROM is available through PC oriented magazines, computer shows, dealers, and other outlets.

(1.5) High Performance File System (HPFS)

 * Why should I use HPFS? What does it offer me? Does it work with DOS?

HPFS is an installable file system (IFS) provided with OS/2 Warp which may optionally be used instead of (or alongside) the standard DOS-style FAT (File Allocation Table) file system. HPFS offers long file names (up to 254 characters including the path, greatly exceeding the "8 dot 3" limit in DOS's FAT file system), contiguous storage of extended attributes (without the EA DATA. SF file used by FAT), resistance to file fragmentation, improved media error handling, smaller cluster size, support for larger file storage devices (up to 512 GB), and speedier disk operation, particularly on large hard disks, on systems with more than 6 MB of RAM. HPFS is not case sensitive, although it does preserve case in file names.

However, HPFS is not currently supported on removable media, although some programs (e.g. BACKUP) preserve long file names on such FAT disks. Also, native DOS cannot access a HPFS partition without a special utility. However, DOS/Windows sessions running under OS/2 can use all files that conform to the "8 dot 3" naming conventions, even if they are stored on HPFS volumes. (FAT is not required for compatibility with DOS and Windows applications running under OS/2 Warp.)

Note that PowerQuest has released Partition Magic, a utility which can convert the DOS FAT file system to OS/2 HPFS on-the-fly, leaving all your files intact. Partition Magic also allows you (free space permitting) to repartition your hard disk without destroying any files. This utility can save an enormous amount of time in managing your hard disks. Contact your favourite OS/2 Warp software dealer to order Partition Magic.

(1.6) Why Choose OS/2 Warp?
Why should I choose OS/2 Warp over its competitors?

There are many products which compete with OS/2 Warp, at least to some extent. Before comparing OS/2 Warp with those products, it is important to understand what strengths OS/2 Warp brings to the table.

OS/2 Warp requires a PC with a 386SX (or better) and preferably 6 MB of RAM (or more). If you do not have the hardware required to run OS/2 Warp (and cannot conveniently upgrade), other choices should be considered. However, OS/2 Warp is considered by far the "lightest" (in terms of resource requirements) of all the new crop of 32-bit operating systems (which includes Microsoft NT, NeXTStep, Novell UnixWare, and Solaris). Furthermore, IBM has made great strides in reducing the amount of memory required by OS/2 Warp. A PC which is well-equipped to run Windows for DOS is also well-equipped to run OS/2 Warp.

OS/2 Warp is based on a stable, proven design (which started with OS/2 1.0, introduced in 1987). Today's OS/2 Warp barely resembles Version 1.0, yet applications written for that version still run under OS/2 Warp, unmodified. OS/2 1.x found ready markets in so-called "mission critical" applications, including automatic teller machines for banking, point-of-sale systems, process control and factory automation, network software, and more. Other operating systems (particularly NT) have not had the benefit of a long period of testing and reliable operation.

As noted in (1.3) DOS and Windows Compatibility, OS/2 Warp is generally acknowledged to be the most DOS and Windows compatible 32-bit operating system on the market. OS/2 Warp users have access to the broad range of software written for these environments (in addition to the growing library of native OS/2 Warp software) without sacrificing compatibility or performance. Again, this ability stands in contrast to the mediocre DOS and Windows compatibility (and performance) found in such operating systems as NT, NeXTStep, Solaris, UnixWare, Linux, and others. NT, for example, cannot tolerate most DOS device drivers, has no specific DOS session features, and will not run DOS graphics applications in windows on the desktop. (NT also does not include any support for PCMCIA cards or Advanced Power Management, so common in notebook computers.) IBM calls OS/2 Warp "the integrating platform" because it actually lends functionality to all applications, even if you only run DOS and Windows programs.

Currently DOS (with or without Windows) is the most common operating environment on PCs (with OS/2 Warp in second place and closing the gap). OS/2 Warp provides several advantages over plain DOS/Windows, such as:
 * Preemptive multitasking. OS/2 Warp can run more than one application at the same time, and no application can ever take all the CPU attention away from the other tasks. Downloading files, formatting diskettes, printing, mathematically intensive tasks, and other computer-hogging jobs can run reliably, in the background, freeing your computer so you can work more effectively and save time.
 * Multithreading. OS/2 Warp applications can be written to use threads (also known as subtasks). Threads also run in the background so that an application never stops responding to your input. For example, with the DeScribe word processor's multithreaded printing, you can tell the application to print the file then immediately make another revision, without waiting for the document to even spool to the print queue.
 * Enhanced Configurability. Your DOS applications, for example, can have individually tailored CONFIG.SYS settings - no rebooting required. So, if you want to play that game of Wing Commander, you do not have to get rid of your TSRs and network drivers beforehand.
 * Crash Protection. Every application running under OS/2 Warp is isolated from all the other applications. If one application decides to write to random areas of memory, OS/2 Warp will promptly notify you of the offence. All your other applications continue to run, unharmed. Neither DOS nor Windows offer such complete protection. For example, if you have a Windows application which likes to crash (cause a GPF error), OS/2 Warp can run it in a separate Win-OS/2 session. If the application self destructs, all your other DOS, Windows, and OS/2 Warp applications which may be running never miss a beat. No operating system is totally crash proof, but OS/2 Warp is widely considered to be extremely reliable, both because of its design and because of its maturity.
 * Workplace Shell. Literally millions of dollars are spent on Windows desktop replacements and accessories (such as Norton Desktop, PC Tools, and so on). If you do not like the Windows Program Manager and File Manager (still available under OS/2 Warp), OS/2 Warp's Workplace Shell is worthy of your attention. Folders can be nested. Objects (including files) can have long names (so you don't have to remember what "Y6EDGQTR.ILK" means). Your desktop is almost infinitely customizable: every folder can have a different colour or background, for example. And consistency is maintained throughout the Workplace Shell. Want to print a file? Drag it to the printer object. Fax it? Drag it to the Fax object. Open it? Drag it to an application program object. Delete it? Drag it to the Shredder.
 * Access to OS/2 Warp Applications. There's only one way to add OS/2 Warp applications to your PC: add OS/2 Warp. Many of these applications are not available for any other operating system. For example, Watcom's VX-REXX and HockWare's VisPro/REXX let you create fully graphical applications in no time flat. (VX-REXX recently won PC Magazine's Editor's Choice award.) Lotus cc:Mail for OS/2, which takes full advantage of the Workplace Shell, makes e-mail simple. IBM's Ultimedia Builder/2, Workplace/2, and Manager/2 are the best multimedia authoring tools available anywhere, better than anything for Windows, says PC Magazine. And you can only play Galactic Civilizations for OS/2, the Number 1 PC game according to a recent Internet list, when you're running OS/2. OS/2 Warp allows you to run the largest library of 32-bit applications available for the PC.

OS/2 Warp costs less (much less) than its competitors. OS/2 Warp is a best seller and continues to gain ground on plain DOS/Windows, meaning application developers and hardware manufacturers take notice (most recently Corel Systems and Toshiba). OS/2 Warp is likely to be the most popular operating system on PowerPC systems. OS/2 Warp coexists peacefully with your existing DOS/Windows setup (using either DualBoot or Boot Manager), so you can make the switch at your own pace. OS/2 Warp continues to capture industry awards. Most recently, Windows Magazine named OS/2 to its Top 100 list. And, for the second straight year, OS/2 won Overall Product of the Year from the readers of Infoworld. (OS/2 also earned Infoworld's Software Product of the Year and the Interoperability Award. In fact, OS/2, with three of the highest awards all to itself, was the only product to win more than one award.) As an OS/2 Warp user, you'll be joining the over eight million OS/2ers around the world who are experiencing a new level of performance when they use their PCs.

But shouldn't I wait for Windows95 ("Chicago")?

Most industry observers believe that Chicago (Windows 95) will not be available until far into 1995. In other words, Microsoft is promising a product which will offer some of OS/2 Warp's features at some point in the future. Even if you think you are interested in Chicago, OS/2 Warp will not suddenly render your PC unable to run it. So why not upgrade to OS/2 Warp in the meantime?

Yet there are several good reasons why you may not be making that upgrade. First, like most first releases, Chicago will suffer from its share of bugs. It will take a considerable amount of time (and expense) to solve these problems. Second, OS/2 Warp is by no means standing still. By the time Chicago is released, OS/2 Warp could possibly enjoy another upgrade. (The time between new releases of OS/2 has been averaging about 14 months. The last major Windows update, Version 3.1, was introduced in April, 1992.) In other words, it will have features (such as support for Symmetric Multiprocessing and the PowerPC) that are not even contemplated for Chicago. Or, in still other words, vapourware (software which does not yet exist) always sounds more appealing than real software on the surface, because software vendors can make whatever claims they like.

Chicago will not support any OS/2 Warp applications (whose number is only growing with time). On the other hand, OS/2 Warp now supports the Win32s programming interface for 32-bit Windows applications. The resource requirements for Chicago will increase over Windows 3.1 (at the same time IBM has fine tuned OS/2 Warp to use less memory and perform better) -- at best Chicago will demand a PC no less powerful than that demanded by OS/2 Warp.

Byte and Windows Sources have pointed to some architectural problems with Chicago. These publications have cited Chicago's pervasive use of 16-bit subsystems (which will cause "thunking," i.e. a performance hit for calls made by 32-bit applications), failure to protect 16-bit Windows applications from crashing the entire system (which OS/2 Warp already prevents), and the 16-bit locking mechanism (which means that 16-bit Windows applications will not be preempted by Chicago, possibly resulting in hung background file transfers, poor multimedia performance, and other problems, even for 32-bit applications). Moreover, reportedly all video and network device drivers for Windows 3.1 must be rewritten to work with Chicago. A recently published book, "Undocumented Windows95," even suggests that new 32-bit Windows applications may still depend on real mode vestiges from ordinary DOS.

Finally, Microsoft made similar promises (on the overwhelming success to be achieved by NT and Windows for Workgroups, most recently). These promises have not come to pass. It is far from certain whether Chicago will satisfy the marketplace.

For a concise, researched, official view of OS/2 Warp when compared to the as-yet-unreleased Windows95, IBM has published a whitepaper which is available from online services such as CompuServe and the Internet.

(2.0) Hardware
The following questions are addressed in this section:

(2.1) Hardware Requirements
What hardware do I need to run IBM OS/2 Warp? Do I need a PS/2?

You need any ISA (AT bus), EISA, VESA Local Bus, PCI, or Microchannel PC compatible with at least an 80386SX CPU, 4 MB (6 MB or more strongly recommended) of RAM, an 80 MB or larger hard disk (with 20-70 MB free, depending on which features you wish to install), a supported video adapter (CGA, EGA, VGA, SuperVGA, 8514/A, XGA, or third party driver) with appropriate display (VGA or better strongly recommended), and a high density 3.5 inch diskette drive for installation. A mouse or other pointing device is strongly recommended. Allow extra RAM and hard disk space for OS/2-based networking [see (3.8) Networking Products], Extended Services [see (3.10) Extended Services], and/or extra system loads (i.e. an extraordinary number of large applications running simultaneously). When calculating hard disk space requirements, subtract space occupied by files already on the hard disk which are functionally included in OS/2 Warp and may be deleted, e.g. DOS, a 386 memory manager, Adobe Type Manager [see (5.5) Adobe Type Manager] with base typefaces, etc.

The performance of OS/2 Warp itself will not be increased appreciably with the addition of a math coprocessor. However, certain applications may benefit.

The Workplace Shell (WPS) will not operate with the Monochrome Display Adapter or the Hercules Monochrome Graphics Adapter. Usually the WPS will fail to work with monochrome EGA. However, some EGA adapters (e.g. Paradise Monochrome EGA Card, ATI EGA Wonder) will emulate all colour EGA modes on TTL monochrome monitors and, thus, will work with the WPS.

The following dual monitor configurations are supported: VGA (or most SuperVGA) with Monochrome Display Adapter (not Hercules), 8514/A with VGA, XGA with VGA, and XGA with one or more other XGA. A secondary monitor is most often used with code debuggers that explicitly support such configurations. The Workplace Shell desktop is currently shown only on the primary display (except for the STB MVP-2 and MVP-4 ISA and Microchannel display adapters which do support the Workplace Shell desktop spanning multiple monitors - contact STB at 214-234-8750 or FAX 214-234-1306 for more information; and the Double Edge video card from Nth Graphics, phone 800-624-7552).

OS/2 Warp specifically supports hard drive adapters which conform to the Western Digital chipset interface standard (nearly all MFM, RLL, IDE, and ESDI adapters) and Adaptec, Future Domain, DPT, BusLogic, MediaVision/Trantor, and IBM SCSI adapters. [True OS/2 Warp drivers for most SCSI adapters, e.g. Always, Trantor, Rancho, Procomp, Corel Systems, Seagate, Mylex, CE Infosys, Ciprico, NCR, and others are available directly from the adapter manufacturers or from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.] In addition, "generic" INT13 support is provided for all other hard disk adapters. This "generic" support even embraces such devices as Iomega's Bernoulli and SyQuest's removable media products (but for best results contact Iomega or SyQuest for an OS/2 Warp driver).

OS/2 Warp driver support is available for nearly all CD-ROM drives. The list below describes the drivers included with OS/2 Warp. If your CD-ROM drive is not on the list, it is in all likelihood a close cousin (or follow-on model) to one of the CD-ROM drives on the list, and OS/2 Warp will automatically recognize it using the closest match. Be sure to ask the manufacturer of your CD-ROM drive for advice if OS/2 Warp is not recognizing it. Most IDE CD-ROM drives are also supported. For CD-ROM drives that use their own adapter cards (that are not attached to SCSI adapters), you may need to know which interrupt (IRQ), DMA channel (if any), and port addresses are used by the CD-ROM adapter in order to correctly configure OS/2 Warp. Please consult the printed OS/2 Warp manual for guidance.
 * CD Technology
 * T3301
 * T3401
 * Chinon
 * 431
 * 435
 * 535
 * Compaq
 * Dual Speed
 * Creative Labs
 * OmniCD
 * Hitachi
 * 1650S
 * 1750S
 * 3650
 * 1950S
 * 3750
 * 6750
 * IBM
 * CD-ROM I
 * CD-ROM II
 * Enhanced CD-ROM II
 * ISA
 * Mitsumi
 * CRMC-LU002S
 * CRMC-LU005S
 * CRMC-FX001
 * CRMC-FX001D
 * CRMC-FX001DE
 * NEC
 * Intersect 25
 * Intersect 36
 * Intersect 37
 * Intersect 72
 * Intersect 73
 * Intersect 74
 * Intersect 82
 * Intersect 83
 * Intersect 84
 * MultiSpin 4Xe
 * MultiSpin 4Xi
 * MultiSpin 3Xe
 * MultiSpin 3Xi
 * MultiSpin 3Xp
 * MultiSpin 38
 * MultiSpin 74-1
 * MultiSpin 84-1
 * 2vi
 * 260
 * Panasonic
 * 501
 * LK-MC501S
 * 521
 * 522
 * 523
 * 562
 * 563
 * Philips
 * LMS CM-205
 * LMS CM-225
 * LMS CM-205MS
 * LMS CM-206
 * LMS CM-225MS
 * LMS CM-226
 * LMS CM-215
 * LMS CM-207
 * Pioneer
 * DRM-600
 * DRM-604X
 * Plextor
 * DM-3028
 * DM-5028
 * 4PLEX
 * Sony
 * CDU-31A
 * CDU-33A
 * CDU-7305
 * CDU-7405
 * CDU-531
 * CDU-535
 * CDU-6150
 * CDU-6201
 * CDU-6205
 * CDU-6251
 * CDU-7201
 * CDU-7205
 * CDU-55D
 * CDU-55E
 * 541
 * 561
 * 6211
 * 7211
 * 7811
 * 6111
 * Tandy
 * CDR-1000
 * Texel
 * 3021
 * 5021
 * 3024
 * 3028
 * 5024
 * 5028
 * Toshiba
 * 3201
 * 3301
 * 3401
 * 4101
 * Wearnes
 * CDD-120

OS/2 Warp's CD-ROM support includes audio, ISO 9660/High Sierra, CD-ROM/XA, and Kodak Photo CD (including multisession) compatibility for those CD-ROM drives which support these standards. An OS/2 Warp CD-ROM device driver automatically provides CD-ROM services to DOS and Windows applications running under OS/2 Warp. In other words, you do not need to load DOS CD-ROM device drivers when you are running OS/2 Warp. However, in the unlikely event you cannot locate an OS/2 Warp driver for your CD-ROM drive, you may use the DOS CD-ROM device drivers in a specific DOS session [see (5.9) Specific DOS Sessions for details].

OS/2 Warp drivers for some non-SCSI Hitachi CD-ROM models are available by calling either Laser Resources (800-535-2737) or Proline (415-692-5262); ask for CDREXT5D. Storage Devices offers OS/2 drivers for its parallel port attached peripherals, including its CD-ROM drive.

See (2.3) for information on OS/2 printer and plotter compatibility.

OS/2 Warp is explicitly supported on non-IBM PC compatibles. IBM is offering a money back compatibility guarantee in the U.S. Should OS/2 Warp fail to work on your compatible within the first 90 days of use, and should IBM be unable to fix the problem, your purchase price will be refunded. To date over 2000 non-IBM models have been tested in IBM's own labs.

(2.2) SuperVGA Support
Will OS/2 Warp work with my SuperVGA adapter?

Consult the OS/2 Warp printed manual for complete information on SuperVGA support.

OS/2 Warp contains built-in 256 (or more) colour drivers for most SuperVGA adapters based on the following chipsets: These chipsets are used in the vast majority of SuperVGA adapters. OS/2 Warp also supplies "generic" SuperVGA support for other chipsets (such as Chips & Technologies and Realtek) which allows full screen DOS and Windows applications to run in SuperVGA modes, but OS/2's Workplace Shell runs in VGA resolution. If a high resolution driver for your SuperVGA card is not included with OS/2 Warp, contact the video card manufacturer for the correct driver. Many drivers included with OS/2 Warp support HiColour (65,536 colours) and even TrueColour (16 million colours) modes if you have enough video memory.
 * ATI
 * 28800
 * Mach 8
 * Mach 16
 * Mach 32
 * Cirrus Logic
 * 5422
 * 5424
 * 5426
 * 5428
 * 5430
 * 5434
 * Headland Technology
 * HT209
 * IBM
 * VGA 256c
 * S3
 * 864
 * 86C801
 * 86C805
 * 86C928
 * Trident Microsystems
 * TVGA 8900C
 * Tseng Laboratories
 * ET4000
 * ET4000/W32
 * ET4000/W32p
 * ET4000/W32i
 * Weitek
 * Power 9000
 * Power 9100
 * Western Digital
 * 90C24
 * 90C31
 * 90C33
 * 90C11
 * 90C30

Some SuperVGA adapters (notably ATI's Vantage and Ultra lines) are 8514/A hardware compatible and will function in 1024x768 256 colour mode with OS/2's built-in 8514/A driver.

Regular Windows 3.1 display drivers may be used for the full screen Win-OS/2 desktop. To install a Windows 3.1 display driver under Win-OS/2, simply replace the fdisplay= entry in the SYSTEM.INI file with the name of the Windows .DRV file supplied by the vendor, and copy the .DRV file to the Win-OS/2 SYSTEM directory. Note that you may have to use the EXPAND program supplied with Windows or Win-OS/2 to decompress the vendor's .DRV file.

Settings for your SuperVGA display are controlled from the System object in your System Setup folder (which is located inside the OS/2 System folder). There you can change video modes and even set the refresh rates for those modes according to your monitor's capabilities.

(2.3) Printer Support
Will OS/2 Warp work with my printer?

OS/2 Warp includes support for the following printers (partial list; see below): The above list is abbreviated; certain models are not listed. If your printer is not listed, consult both the OS/2 Warp printed manual and your printer's manual to see if your printer emulates one of the above models. For example, the Canon BubbleJet Model BJ-10e printer works well with the IBM 4070 IJ driver.
 * AST
 * TurboLaser
 * Agfa
 * Matrix ChromaScript
 * Compugraphic 9400PS
 * Compugraphic 400PS
 * Apple
 * LaserWriter II NT
 * LaserWriter II NTX
 * LaserWriter Plus
 * LaserWriter
 * Brother
 * HJ-100i
 * HJ-400
 * HL-10PS
 * HL-10DPS
 * HL-10V
 * HL-10h
 * HL-1260
 * HL-4PS
 * HL-4V
 * HL-630
 * HL-631
 * HL-641
 * HL-645
 * HL-655M
 * HL-660
 * HL-6
 * HL-6V
 * HL-8PS
 * HS-1PS
 * HS-1PS2
 * M-1309
 * M-1324
 * M-1809
 * M-1824L
 * M-1909
 * M-1924L
 * M-4309
 * Compaq
 * Pagemarq 15
 * Pagemarq 20
 * Citizen
 * PN48
 * ColorMaster Plus
 * 6603
 * 6613
 * 6613XF
 * Colormate
 * PS
 * Dataproducts
 * LZR-1260
 * LZR-2665
 * Digital
 * DECcolorwriter 1000
 * LN03R ScriptPrinter
 * LPS PrintServer 40
 * Epson
 * AP-2250
 * AP-3250
 * AP-3260
 * AP-5000
 * AP-5500
 * ActionLaser 1000
 * ActionLaser 1500
 * ActionLaser 1600
 * ActionLaser II
 * DFX-5000
 * DFX-8000
 * EPL-7000
 * EPL-7500
 * EPL-8000
 * EX-1000
 * EX-800
 * FX-1050
 * FX-1170
 * FX-286e
 * FX-850
 * FX-870
 * Generic 24 pin
 * Generic 48 pin
 * Generic 9 pin
 * Generic ESC2P
 * JX-80
 * LQ-1010
 * LQ-1050
 * LQ-1070
 * LQ-1170
 * LQ-150
 * LQ-2500
 * LQ-2550
 * LQ-500
 * LQ-510
 * LQ-570
 * LQ-850
 * LQ-860
 * LQ-870
 * LQ-950
 * LX-800
 * LX-810
 * MX-80
 * Stylus 300 Inkjet
 * Stylus 800 Inkjet
 * Stylus Color Inkjet
 * Generic Postscript printer
 * Hewlett-Packard
 * 7470A Plotter
 * 7475A Plotter
 * 7550A Plotter
 * 7580A Plotter
 * 7580B Plotter
 * 7585A Plotter
 * 7585B Plotter
 * 7586B Plotter
 * Color LaserJet PS
 * Color LaserJet
 * ColorPro
 * DesignJet 200
 * DesignJet 220
 * DesignJet 600
 * DesignJet 650C
 * DeskJet 1200C
 * DeskJet 310
 * DeskJet 320
 * DeskJet 500
 * DeskJet 500C
 * DeskJet 510
 * DeskJet 520
 * DeskJet 540
 * DeskJet 550C
 * DeskJet 560C
 * DeskJet Plus
 * DeskJet Portable
 * DeskJet (Original)
 * DraftMaster I
 * DraftMaster II
 * DraftMaster MX
 * DraftMaster RX
 * DraftMaster SX
 * DraftPro
 * LaserJet 2000
 * LaserJet 4 Plus
 * LaserJet 4
 * LaserJet 4M
 * LaserJet 4M Plus
 * LaserJet 4L
 * LaserJet 4ML
 * LaserJet 4MP
 * LaserJet 4MV
 * LaserJet 4P
 * LaserJet 4Si MX
 * LaserJet 4Si
 * LaserJet 4V
 * LaserJet 500 Plus
 * LaserJet Classic
 * LaserJet IID
 * LaserJet III
 * LaserJet IIID
 * LaserJet IIIP
 * LaserJet IIISi
 * LaserJet IIP Plus
 * LaserJet IIP
 * LaserJet Plus
 * LaserJet II
 * PaintJet XL HP-GL/2
 * PaintJet XL300
 * PaintJet XL
 * PaintJet
 * IBM/Lexmark
 * 2380
 * 2381
 * 2390
 * 2391
 * 3816
 * 4019 LaserPrinter
 * 4029 LaserPrinter
 * 4037 LaserPrinter
 * 4039 LaserPrinter
 * 4070 IJ
 * 4072 ExecJet
 * 4076 ExecJet II
 * 4079 Color Jetprinter
 * 4201 Proprinter II
 * 4201 Proprinter III
 * 4201 Proprinter
 * 4202 Proprinter IIXL
 * 4202 Proprinter IIIXL
 * 4202 Proprinter XL
 * 4207 Proprinter X24
 * 4207 Proprinter X24E
 * 4208 Proprinter XL24
 * 4208 Proprinter XL24E
 * 4216-031
 * 4224
 * 4226 Model 302
 * 5183 Portable Printer
 * 5201 Quietwriter II
 * 5202 Quietwriter III
 * 5204 Quickwriter
 * 6180 Plotter
 * 6182 Plotter
 * 6184 Plotter
 * 6186 Plotter
 * 7371 Plotter
 * 7372 Plotter
 * 7374 Plotter
 * 7375 Plotter
 * Personal Page Printer II
 * Personal Page Printer
 * 4047
 * 4076 Color
 * WinWriter 600
 * IBM Null (Plain Text/Daisy Wheel)
 * Kyocera
 * F-1000
 * F-1000A
 * F-2000A
 * F-2200S
 * F-3000A
 * F-3300
 * F-5000
 * F-5000A
 * F-800
 * F-800A
 * F-820
 * FS-1500
 * FS-1500A
 * FS-1550
 * FS-1550A
 * FS-3500
 * FS-3500A
 * FS-400
 * FS-400A
 * FS-5500
 * FS-5500A
 * FS-850
 * FS-850A
 * P-2000
 * Q-8010
 * Linotronic
 * 100
 * 200
 * 300
 * 500
 * NEC
 * Colormate PS/40
 * Colormate PS/80
 * LC-890
 * Silentwriter 1097
 * Silentwriter 95
 * Silentwriter 95f
 * Silentwriter 97
 * Silentwriter S62P
 * Silentwriter LC 890XL
 * Silentwriter2 290
 * Silentwriter2 Model 90
 * Okidata
 * OL830-PS
 * OL840-PS
 * OL850-PS
 * OL870
 * ML-192
 * ML-193
 * ML-320
 * ML-321
 * ML-3410
 * ML-380
 * ML-390
 * ML-391
 * ML-393
 * ML-395
 * ML-395B
 * ML-520
 * ML-521
 * ML-590
 * ML-591
 * Olivetti
 * LP-5000
 * Panasonic
 * KX-P1123
 * KX-P1124
 * KX-P1124i
 * KX-P1150
 * KX-P1180
 * KX-P1191
 * KX-P1624
 * KX-P1654
 * KX-P1695
 * KX-P2023
 * KX-P2123
 * KX-P2124
 * KX-P2130
 * KX-P2135
 * KX-P2180
 * KX-P2624
 * KX-P3123
 * KX-P3124
 * KX-P3624
 * KX-P4400
 * KX-P4401
 * KX-P4410
 * KX-P4420
 * KX-P4430
 * KX-P4440
 * KX-P4450
 * KX-P4450i
 * KX-P4451
 * KX-P4455
 * KX-P5400
 * KX-P5410
 * Phaser
 * Phaser Card (Postscript)
 * QMS
 * 1060 Level 2
 * 1660 Level 2
 * 1725 Print System
 * 2025 Print System
 * 3225 Print System
 * 420 Print System
 * 4525 Print System
 * 860 Print System
 * 860 Plus Print System
 * ColorScript 100 Model 10
 * ColorScript 100 Model 30
 * ColorScript 100 Model 30si
 * ColorScript 100
 * ColorScript 210
 * ColorScript 230
 * ColorScript Laser 1000
 * IS X320T
 * Magicolor Laser Printer
 * PS 1500
 * PS 1700
 * PS 2000
 * PS 2200
 * PS 2210
 * PS 2220
 * PS 410
 * PS 800 Plus
 * PS 800
 * PS 810 Turbo
 * PS 810
 * PS 815 MR
 * PS 815
 * PS 820 Turbo
 * PS 820
 * PS 825 MR
 * PS 825
 * Qume
 * ScripTEN
 * Seiko
 * ColorPoint PS Model 4
 * ColorPoint PS Model 14
 * ColorPoint PSN Model 14
 * ColorPoint PSN Model 4
 * ColorPoint2 PSF
 * Personal ColorPoint PS
 * Personal ColorPoint PSE
 * Professional ColorPoint PSH
 * Star
 * LS-5 EX
 * LS-5
 * LS-5TT
 * NX-1001
 * NX-1040R
 * NX-1500
 * NX-2415
 * NX-2420R
 * NX-2430
 * SJ-144
 * SJ-48
 * XB-2420
 * XB-2425
 * XR-1020
 * XR-1520
 * Texas Instruments
 * MicroWriter
 * OmniLaser 2108
 * OmniLaser 2115
 * MicroLaser PS
 * MicroLaser Pro 600
 * MicroLaser XL PS
 * MicroLaser 16 Turbo
 * MicroLaser 6 Turbo
 * MicroLaser 9 Turbo
 * MicroMarc Color
 * MicroWriter PS
 * Tektronix
 * Phaser 200J
 * Phaser 200e
 * Phaser 200i
 * Phaser 220J
 * Phaser 220e
 * Phaser 220i
 * Phaser 300J
 * Phaser 300i
 * Phaser 440
 * Phaser 480
 * Phaser 480J
 * Phaser II PX
 * Phaser II PXe
 * Phaser II PXi
 * Phaser II PXiJ
 * Phaser III PXi
 * Phaser III PXiJ
 * Phaser IISD
 * Phaser IISDJ
 * Phaser IISDX
 * Phaser PX
 * Phaser PXi
 * Varityper
 * VT-600
 * Wang
 * LCS15 FontPlus
 * LCS15

IBM, NEC, Canon, and other printer manufacturers have OS/2 Warp drivers for their printers available for download from BBSes. Contact your printer's manufacturer for assistance. These downloadable drivers include older IBM models (such as the IBM 5152 Graphics Printer and 5201 Quietwriter I), NEC dot matrix printers, and Canon laser and BubbleJet printers. The IBM/Lexmark BBS can be reached at 606-232-5653.

DOS and Windows printer drivers continue to work for DOS and Windows applications. Use the Win-OS/2 Control Panel to install Windows printer drivers for use with OS/2 Warp.

Printer Troubleshooting for OS/2 Warp

If you are experiencing trouble printing, be sure to consult the "Printing in OS/2" online document (located in your Information folder) and the OS/2 Warp printed manual for assistance. Common problems are usually solved using one of the following methods:

1. If you are using a Postscript printer, and you are having difficulty printing with Windows applications, particularly over a network, try adding the following line to the Postscript section of your WIN.INI file: CtrlD=0

2. If you experience slow printing, or if you see a long series of repeated characters (or garbage) appearing in your printed documents, try editing your CONFIG.SYS file using any text editor (such as the OS/2 System Editor or Enhanced Editor). Locate the line BASEDEV=PRINT01.SYS and add the parameter /IRQ so that the line reads BASEDEV=PRINT01.SYS /IRQ. Shutdown and restart your system for the change to take effect. This change will not affect printing over a network and it does not apply to Microchannel systems. 3. Make sure that your printer port is properly configured, at the correct port address for LPT1 (or LPT2, if used), and that your printer port is generating the correct interrupt (IRQ), and that no other adapter in your PC is using the same port address or interrupt. See (4.1) Installation for details. 4. Make sure that the cable to your printer is properly shielded, grounded, has all 25 pins wired, and that it does not extend more than 15 feet or 5 meters. Ideally the cable should be no more than 6 feet or 2 meters in length. 5. To improve performance when printing from DOS or Windows applications, configure your application to print to LPT1.OS2 (or LPT2.OS2 for printer port 2). (WordPerfect for DOS benefits greatly after making this change.) Use the application's "print to file" feature, if necessary. For Windows applications, use the Win-OS/2 Control Panel to route printer output to LPT1.OS2.

(2.4) COM3 and COM4 Support
Can I use COM3 and COM4 in OS/2 Warp?

COM3 and COM4 are supported on most PS/2s without any additional effort. On ISA, EISA, PCI, and VESA LocalBus machines, some additions are required to CONFIG.SYS. Using a text editor, include "(port number, base address, interrupt number)" parameters next to the COM.SYS filename. One example: DEVICE=C:\OS2\BOOT\COM.SYS (3,3E8,5) (4,2E8,10) Parameters for COM1 and COM2 need not be included (unless they are somehow nonstandard). OS/2 Warp must end up with sequentially numbered logical COM ports, if possible. For example, if (physical) port two is not installed but port three or port four is installed, start numbering using (2,...) in the DEVICE lines. See the OS/2 Warp printed manual and the online Command Reference for more information. If these efforts fail, try the SIO drivers [available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources]. Note that IRQ 2 is actually redirected to IRQ 9 on the AT bus, so use (...,...,9) in the above COM.SYS settings if your serial port is set to use IRQ 2.

AT bus COM ports cannot be used at the same time if they share interrupts because of bus design limitations (cf. "Under the Hood: How Interrupts Work," Byte, February, 1992). An adapter which provides more flexibility in interrupt selection [e.g. the 16-bit model from STB; see (2.5) Specific Hardware Recommendations] may prove helpful. Also, PolyCom, a replacement driver available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources, supports up to eight ports with the right hardware (Xenix-compatible multiport adapters).

"Smart" (coprocessor controlled) multiport communication adapters should be used when installing more than four ports. Such an adapter will work with OS/2 if the manufacturer has written an appropriate driver. Examples include: Company     Telephone Number IBM (ARTIC) (800) PS2-2227 Digiboard   (612) 943-9020 Stargate    (216) 349-1860 Arnet       (615) 834-8000 Computone   (404) 475-2725 Comtrol     (612) 631-7654 CTC Systems (415) 966-1688 Equinox     (305) 255-3500 I-Concepts  (214) 956-7770 Specialix   (408) 378-7919 Stallion    (408) 395-5775 Quatech     (216) 434-3154

(2.5) Specific Hardware Recommendations
Are there any specific hardware recommendations?

Here are some of the peripherals and adapters that are particularly well suited to OS/2 Warp. Use these recommendations as general guidelines for adding peripherals to your OS/2 Warp PC. When you buy a new PC, remember to ask for OS/2 Warp preloaded. When you purchase a new add-on for your PC, remember to ask about OS/2 Warp drivers and compatibility.


 * Sound cards. There are many excellent sound cards on the market for OS/2 Warp. Two of the best are the IBM Audiovation (available for both AT bus and Microchannel) and the Creative Labs SoundBlaster 16 SCSI-2. This model SoundBlaster includes a built-in SCSI port for CD-ROM drives, tape backup devices, etc., and OS/2 Warp's built-in Adaptec 152x SCSI driver will work with the card. OS/2 Warp also includes the correct SoundBlaster audio driver. An OS/2 Warp driver diskette for the Audiovation adapter is available either with the card or from the IBM PC Company BBS at 919-517-0001.
 * 16550AFN Buffered UART Serial Port Adapters. Improves high speed serial communications performance. Price: $35 for a two port adapter from Zero-One Networking (phone 800-255-4101 or 714-693-0808). Ask about adapters with parallel ports.
 * Four Port 16550AFN Buffered UART Serial Adapter. The STB 4-COM adapter is available for $110 delivered by calling 800-735-5266 Ext. 64 (or 919-286-1502 Ext. 40). The 16-bit STB adapter provides four buffered serial ports, each with an independently selectable interrupt and address. IRQs above 7 are supported for each port. Up to two of these adapters may be installed in the same system (for up to eight buffered serial ports). Four six inch 8-pin DIN to DB9 male converter cables are supplied. Fifteen month manufacturer's warranty and free technical support from STB.
 * CD-ROM Drives. True SCSI-2 CD-ROM drives (double speed or better) are preferred over other CD-ROM drives. They are easier to configure, perform better, and can be easily transferred to another PC (particularly portable, external drives). They can also be more easily attached to many notebook computers. The SoundBlaster 16 SCSI-2 adapter, mentioned above, can provide the SCSI port for a CD-ROM drive.
 * SuperVGA cards. A wide variety of SuperVGA cards work well with OS/2 Warp. Many users find that cards based on the S3 chipsets are among the most compatible and represent the best values.
 * RAM (Memory). Your first choice when you wish to upgrade your PC to enhance the performance of OS/2 Warp. Choose good quality, name brand memory, and make sure that parity checking is included. (Some new PCs are attempting to get by with non-parity RAM. To ensure that all your memory is operating correctly, parity checked RAM is preferred. In fact, many higher end systems, especially servers, use error correcting memory for reliability.)
 * Hard Disk Drives. For a PC with one or two hard disks, each 512 MB or less in size, IDE hard disks represent the best value. They are inexpensive, and they perform well. However, SCSI hard disks with a good quality OS/2 Warp compatible SCSI adapter are generally a better choice when you have more than one hard disk in your PC and/or you wish to use hard disks larger than about 512 MB in size. SCSI also provides the opportunity to add tape backup, CD-ROM, and other devices. Caching hard disk adapters are generally useful only after you have added main memory (RAM) to the PC itself.
 * Tape Backup Devices. Cheap tape drives (which attach to your PC's diskette controller quite often) are quite tempting, and they work well under OS/2 Warp with backup software such as IBM's DualStor and MSR's BackMaster. However, a SCSI tape drive (such as a 4 mm DAT drive) is now only a little more expensive. Each 4 mm cartridge can hold 2 GB of data (uncompressed) or more. With hard disks growing larger and larger, you may wish to invest in a high capacity tape drive.
 * Processor/Motherboard. If you need to save money, save it by getting a system with a less powerful processor. OS/2 Warp will benefit most from adding main memory (RAM), and generally least from upgrading the processor. Since OS/2 Warp multitasks so well, the need for raw speed is usually less. (If you use another operating system, where you spend time waiting for tasks to complete, and where you cannot put tasks in the background and still get other work done, you can imagine that a faster processor would be of greater benefit.) However, make sure that your PC's motherboard contains an OverDrive socket, and preferably one that supports symmetric multiprocessing (SMP) and the Intel MPS 1.1 standard. That is, a system into which you can place a second processor chip and have both processors run at the same time. If you then run OS/2 for SMP, which supports two or more processors, you have a much more powerful system should you choose to upgrade. Also, the more processor cache memory you can afford in your PC, the better. However, if you can find a system which also uses so-called interleaved memory, OS/2 Warp will benefit tremendously. Many systems designed as servers use faster interleaved memory.
 * Notebook Computers. The critical factor when choosing a notebook computer for OS/2 Warp is support for PCMCIA card slots. Most notebooks are now supported, but be sure to check ahead of time. If your notebook computer is not listed in OS/2 Warp's list of PCMCIA drivers, choose either the closest match (in terms of manufacturer) or try each, one by one, in turn. Midwestern Micro notebooks, for example, appear to work well with OS/2 Warp's AST PowerExec PCMCIA driver. Toshiba now preloads OS/2 Warp on its notebooks, on request, and all IBM Thinkpads will ship with OS/2 Warp preloaded.
 * Network Adapters. Any network adapter with an "IBM LAN Server" or "IBM OS/2 NDIS" driver (usually supplied on a diskette with the card) will work fine with OS/2 Warp. Ethernet (especially 10BaseT) is a popular choice for PC networking. IBM, 3Com, Cabletron, Intel, and SMC are some of the most popular brands. However, many large companies have upgraded their Token Ring networks to 16 Mbps, so if you are looking for a good value for a small network, 4 Mbps IBM Token Ring adapters for both AT bus and Microchannel are inexpensive and thoroughly standardized. Setting up a small OS/2 Warp network with Artisoft's LANtastic for OS/2? Try an IBM MAU (Multistation Access Unit), as many Token Ring cards as you need (used 4 Mbps cards are under $50), and cables. Look in the back pages of LAN Times, The Processor, PC Week, and other publications which are read by larger corporate computer users, and you'll see great bargains on good quality networking products. See (3.8) Networking Products for some more advice.

(2.6) More Than 16 MB RAM
Can I use more than 16 MB of RAM?

OS/2 Warp will address all the RAM in your system. If the BIOS recognizes the memory, OS/2 Warp will find it and use it.

However, on certain systems the RAM beyond the 16 MB boundary may be used as a fast swap area. OS/2 Warp relies on its swap file, SWAPPER.DAT, to hold code and data which cannot fit into real memory (i.e. to provide virtual memory). If the swap file (and applications) can only be accessed via a hard disk adapter which uses 24-bit DMA for disk access (e.g. the Adaptec 154x series), then the system must move code and data below the 16 MB boundary before it can write it to disk. This "double move" is costly (in terms of performance), and often OS/2 Warp will merely use all the RAM above the 16 MB boundary as a fast swap area (before writing to disk) to avoid the problem. It is up to the hard disk adapter driver, however, to decide how to handle this situation.

Only AT bus adapters are limited to 24-bit DMA. Microchannel, EISA, VESA LocalBus, and other 32-bit adapters are not so limited. Moreover, only a select few AT bus hard disk adapters utilize DMA. Nearly all MFM, RLL, ESDI, and IDE adapters, and most SCSI adapters, do not use DMA for disk access.

Suffice it to say that, regardless of your present hardware, OS/2 Warp will take advantage of it as best it can. However, if you are planning new hardware purchases, you may wish to take this particular hardware design limitation into account. Specifically, if you plan to install more than 16 MB of RAM in your system, either choose a 32-bit hard disk adapter (Microchannel or PCI, for example) or choose an AT bus adapter which does not utilize DMA for disk access (a standard IDE adapter, an Adaptec 152x series SCSI adapter, or a Future Domain SCSI adapter, for example). The performance trade-off is highly system dependent, however. You may find that even DMA adapters such as the Adaptec 154x series outperform the alternatives in certain cases.

(2.7) Device Driver List
What device drivers are available that aren't included with OS/2 Warp?

Here is a list of a few of the device drivers (and their common filenames) available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources. New and updated OS/2 Warp device drivers are being released almost every day, so use this list only as a rough guide. If you do not see the driver you need listed, you may be able to use one of OS/2 Warp's built-in drivers or a "generic" driver. If you develop PC hardware, and wish to create an OS/2 Warp driver, contact the IBM Developer Connection (800-6-DEVCON in the United States, for example) to obtain the OS/2 Device Driver Development Kit.
 * 3Com Etherlink III: 3C5X9.ZIP
 * 8255 PIO Adapter: 2.ZIP
 * Allied Telesis AT-1700T Ethernet: 17LANOS2.ZIP
 * Alpha Research SCSI: SCSIOS.ZIP
 * Always 7048 CD-ROM: AL7048.ZIP
 * Always AL-7000 SCSI: IN2000.ZIP
 * Always IN-2000 SCSI: ALIN2OS2.ZIP
 * AMI SCSI: AMI0OS2.ZIP
 * Apple CD-150/Sony CDU-8002 CD-ROM: CD-150.ZIP
 * Appoint Gliffic Plus: GLIFF1.ZIP
 * ARNET SmartPort Plus: ARNETOS2.ZIP
 * Artpad (Pen for OS/2): ARTPAD.ZIP
 * Aztech 268-01 CD-ROM: AZT268-1.ZIP
 * Aztech 268-03 CD-ROM: AZT268I.ZIP
 * Beethoven Superspin CDD-110 CD-ROM: WEARNES.ZIP
 * Boca Vortek: OS21_VR.ZIP
 * Boca Voyager: VOYOS2.ZIP
 * Calcomp (Pen for OS/2): CALCMP.ZIP
 * Canon BubbleJet printers: BJOS2.ZIP
 * Canon Laser printers: CANLBP.ZIP
 * CE-Infosys SCSI: CEI5630.ZIP
 * Chinon 431, 435, 535 CD-ROM: CHINON.ZIP
 * Chips & Technologies video: C&T643.ZIP
 * Compaq Concerto (Pen for OS/2): CNCRTO.ZIP
 * Conner IDE hard disks (automatic power down): CONNER.ZIP
 * Cornerstone and ImageAccelerator: IAOS2102.ZIP
 * Cyrix 486DLC Cache Enabler: CYRIX.ZIP
 * Diamond Stealth 64: 8OS21.ZIP
 * Diamond Viper VLB video: OS2102.ZIP
 * Digiboard PC/X: 594M.ZIP
 * Digiboard PC/X, MC/X: 309K.ZIP
 * Digiboard driver for IBM LAN Distance: 1142A.ZIP
 * Dolphin 8000 AT CD-ROM: DOLAT001.ZIP
 * DTC 2290 EISA IDE: 32EIDE2.ZIP
 * DTC SCSI: DTCSCSI.ZIP
 * DTC VESA LocalBus IDE: 32EIDE.ZIP
 * Generic 800x600-16 video: SVGA16.ZIP
 * Goldstar R400/R420 CD-ROM: GSCD4X.ZIP
 * Gravis Ultrasound: GUSOS202.ZIP
 * Hercules Dynamite: DYNAMITE.ZIP
 * Hercules Graphite: AGX1596.ZIP
 * IBM 4/10 GB 4 mm DAT: IBM410.ZIP
 * IBM Image Adapter/A: IAAOS2.ZIP
 * IBM Infrared Wireless LAN Adapter: IRLAN.ZIP
 * IBM LANStreamer: DB12.ZIP
 * IBM MWave DSP: OS_2D.ZIP
 * IBM PS/2 Model 95 Info Panel: PS2INF.ZIP
 * IBM Token Ring Busmaster: IBMTRBMO.ZIP
 * Inmos Transputer: TRANSP.ZIP
 * Iomega Bernoulli: BERN231.ZIP
 * Logitech MouseMan/Sensa: L_MS_OS2.ZIP
 * Matrox MGA II+ video: MATROX12.ZIP
 * Microsolutions Backpack CD-ROM: BPCDOS2.ZIP
 * Miro 10SD, 20SD, ERGO video: MISD111.ZIP
 * Miro 20SV, 40SV, ERGO video: MISV101.ZIP
 * Mozart audio: MOZART06.ZIP
 * NCR 53C810 SCSI: NCR810.ZIP
 * NCR video: NCROS215.ZIP
 * NEC 260 IDE CD-ROM: NEC260.ZIP
 * NEC Pinwriter printers: NECPIN.ZIP
 * NET-420C Ethernet: NET420C.ZIP
 * Novell NE-2000 Ethernet: LSNE2.ZIP
 * Number 9 GXE, GXE64, GXE64P: 64OS2.ZIP
 * Number 9 Trio: TRIOOS2.ZIP
 * PC Speaker (MMPM/2): SPKRDD22.ZIP
 * Pentium Workaround (For Flawed CPU): 586NPX.ZIP
 * Promise IDE: OS2DRV11.ZIP
 * QLogic SCSI: QL10OS.ZIP
 * RACAL Interlan NI5210 Ethernet: NI5210O.ZIP
 * RACAL Interlan NI9210 Ethernet: S12963.ZIP
 * Reveal/AZI audio: SCROS2.ZIP
 * Seagate ST-01/ST-02 SCSI: ST01_102.ZIP
 * Sixgraph Wizard 900 video: P9OS2140.ZIP
 * SPEA Mirage P-64 video: MIRAGEP.ZIP
 * Spider Black Widow: BWPOS2.ZIP
 * Spider SC-100E Ethernet: S12960.ZIP
 * STB Express PCI video: EXPOS2.ZIP
 * SummaSketch II: SUMMA.ZIP
 * Teac CD-55 CD-ROM: CD55OS.ZIP
 * TEKRAM DC-800B SCSI: TEKRAM.ZIP
 * TEKRAM IDE Caching controller: DC620OS2.ZIP
 * Texas Instruments TI-4000 Quickport mouse: OS2MICE.ZIP
 * Trantor SCSI: OS2-TSL6.ZIP
 * Trident 9440 video: OS2_9440.ZIP
 * V-7 Mercury video: OSMIP202.ZIP
 * V-7 Mirage video: OSMIR202.ZIP
 * Wacom (Pen for OS/2): WACOMD.ZIP
 * Wearnes DD110/Orchid CDS3110 CD-ROM: CDD110.ZIP
 * Weitek P9x00 video: P9X00HI.ZIP
 * Western Digital/SMC Ethercard Plus: EOO215.ZIP

(3.0) Software
The following questions are addressed in this section:

(3.1) Applications

 * What applications are available for OS/2 Warp?

In addition to the thousands of applications available for DOS and Windows, there are over 2,500 OS/2-specific applications representing almost every category imaginable. OS/2 Warp provides an attractive, 32-bit, Workplace Shell environment for new applications; many do not have DOS/Windows predecessors. Here are just a few: OS/2 Warp versions of popular utilities include Info-Zip's Zip and Unzip, ARC, LHA, Zoo 2.1, many GNU tools, tens of different file finders, desktop clocks, calculators, and many more. Programming languages include Ada, APL, Assembler, BASIC, C, C++, COBOL, Forth, Fortran, Icon, LISP, Modula-2, Pascal, PL/1, Prolog, REXX (included with every copy of OS/2 Warp), Smalltalk, and still more, from vendors such as Borland, Cabot, Clarion, IBM, Microway, Symantec (through its Zortech subsidiary), Watcom, and many more. Two free ports of the 32-bit GNU C/C++ compiler, GCC/2 and EMX/GCC, are available [see (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources]. See the Programmer's Edition of the OS/2 Warp Frequently Asked Questions List for more information on OS/2 Warp programming tools and utilities.
 * AIM/SDS
 * Galactic Civilizations
 * Tensor
 * Alpha Software
 * AlphaFour
 * Artisoft
 * LANtastic for OS/2
 * Athena Designs
 * Mesa 2 Spreadsheet
 * BocaSoft
 * System Sounds
 * WipeOut Screen Saver
 * Borland
 * C++
 * ObjectVision
 * Interbase
 * Cawthon Software
 * Chipchat Wireless Communicator
 * Computer Associates
 * CommonView
 * Compete!
 * Datacom
 * dBFast
 * Easytrieve Workstation
 * IDMS
 * PAN/LCM
 * QbyX
 * Realia COBOL
 * Realizer
 * RET
 * Simply Accounting
 * SuperProject
 * Telon/PWS
 * Textor
 * Unicenter
 * Corel Systems
 * CorelDraw
 * CorelOffice
 * Ventura Publisher
 * Creative Systems Programming
 * Golden CommPass
 * DeScribe
 * DeScribe 5
 * DUX
 * SimCity
 * Global Village
 * Faxworks Pro
 * Faxworks LAN
 * Hilgraeve
 * HyperAccess 5
 * KopyKat
 * HockWare
 * VisPro/REXX
 * VisPro/C /C++
 * IBM
 * ADSM
 * AnyNet/2
 * APL
 * Book Manager
 * C Set++
 * CallPath/2
 * CICS
 * Communications Manager/2
 * Continuous Speech Series
 * DB2
 * DCAF
 * DCE
 * Developer Connection
 * Device Driver Kit
 * DirecTalk/2
 * DualStor
 * EduQuest educational software (including Columbus and Illuminated Books)
 * FlowMark
 * FormTalk
 * Hyperwise
 * LAN Distance
 * LAN Server 4
 * LAN Server for Macintosh
 * LAN Server Ultimedia
 * NetFinity
 * Person to Person/2
 * PL/I
 * Programmer's Toolkit
 * Prolog
 * Screen Magnifier/2
 * Screen Reader/2
 * SearchManager/2
 * SOM Toolkit
 * TCP/IP
 * THINKable/2
 * Time and Place/2
 * TranslationManager/2
 * Ultimedia Builder/2
 * Ultimedia Perfect Image/2
 * VideoCharger
 * VisualAge
 * VisualGen
 * VisualInfo
 * Visualizer
 * VoiceType Dictation for OS/2
 * VRPG
 * (Many others)
 * Lotus Development
 * 1-2-3
 * Freelance Graphics
 * Notes
 * cc:Mail
 * Ami Pro
 * Maxis
 * SimCity 2000
 * Micrographx
 * Draw
 * Designer
 * Microrim
 * R:Base
 * OneUp
 * S.M.A.R.T.
 * WindowWasher
 * Online Data
 * OnCmd xBase
 * Proportional Software
 * DCF/2 (disk compression)
 * Software Corp. of America
 * Poly/PM
 * TalkThru
 * Stac Electronics
 * Stacker 4
 * Sundial Systems
 * Relish
 * Sybase
 * System 10 SQL Server
 * Symantec
 * Fastback Plus
 * Norton Commander
 * Zortech C++
 * Watcom
 * C++
 * Fortran
 * SQL Server
 * VX-REXX

The IBM PC Company BBS (919-517-0001) provides an online product database of OS/2-specific software. A directory of OS/2 applications, IBM document number G362-0029, is published by Graphics Plus (phone 800-READ-OS2). The OS/2 Development Tools Guide is available free of charge by calling the IBM Developer Assistance Program at (407) 982-6408. TINF [see (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] is an applications directory (for use with the OS/2 VIEW facility).

(3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources
Where can I obtain OS/2 Warp shareware and freeware?

See (4.11) OS/2 Warp BBSes for information on bulletin board systems that support OS/2 Warp.

On the Internet, the Usenet conference comp.binaries.os2 carries OS/2 software. And several sites are available via anonymous ftp. (No ftp? Send a single line message with the word HELP to bitftp@pucc.bitnet or ftpmail@decwrl.dec.com to learn about ftp mail servers.) Some are (with Internet node numbers and subdirectories): ftp-os2.cdrom.com             192.153.46.2     pub/os2 ftp-os2.nmsu.edu              128.123.35.151   os2 software.watson.ibm.com       129.34.139.5     pub/os2 mtsg.ubc.ca                   137.82.27.1      os2: access.usask.ca               128.233.3.1      pub/archives/os2 luga.latrobe.edu.au           131.172.2.2      pub/os2 funic.funet.fi                128.214.6.100    pub/os2 pdsoft.lancs.ac.uk            148.88.64.2      micros/ibmpc/os2 ftp.uni-stuttgart.de          129.69.1.12      soft/os2 src.doc.ic.ac.uk              146.169.2.1      computing/systems/os2 zaphod.cs.uwindsor.ca         137.207.224.3    pub/local/os2 ftp.luth.se                   130.240.18.2     pub/pc/os2 ftp.informatik.tu-muenchen.de 131.159.0.198    pub/comp/os/os2 The ftp-os2.cdrom.com library is available on CD-ROM from Walnut Creek (phone 510-947-5996). A quarterly subscription is available. Profit Press (phone 800-843-7990) also offers OS/2 shareware and freeware on CD-ROM. EMS (phone 301-924-3594) offers an OS/2 shareware/freeware library on diskette.

Other sources include CompuServe, Prodigy, America Online, GEnie, BIX, and numerous other online services. See (4.7) Online Services.

IBM has been releasing freely distributable employee written software (e.g. Excal, Visual REXX) and OS/2 patches to these electronic archives.

(3.3) "Must Have" Shareware and Freeware
What are the "must have" shareware and freeware titles?

Here are some of the shareware and freeware selections that have proven popular among OS/2 Warp users. Where available, an approximate filename is provided. However, since version numbers are changing frequently, please bear in mind that some of this information may be dated. Also, please register any shareware you use - your support will ensure a continuing supply of capable OS/2 Warp shareware.


 * 4OS2 Version 2.5 (4OS225B.ZIP): A replacement command interpreter from JP Software. A must for command line users.
 * BlackHole (BLCKH3.ZIP): A Workplace Shell object that destroys anything dragged to it.
 * BookShelf (BOOKSHLF.ZIP): Utility which presents a coherent menu of all available INF files on your system. Creates an OS/2 bootable diskette.
 * C-Kermit 5A(190) (CKO190_.ZIP): A terminal emulation and modem communications program featuring the Kermit file transfer protocol.
 * CONFIG.SYS Editor (CFGED1B.ZIP): A Presentation Manager utility which eases CONFIG.SYS editing.
 * emTeX (various): Provides professional typesetting and document composition.
 * EMX/GCC (various): Powerful C/C++ compiler with programming aids and enhanced libraries.
 * Enhanced Editor Toolkit and Accessories (various): Add-ons to the Enhanced Editor (EPM) which provide editor macro capabilities, documentation, and various accessories.
 * Extended Attributes Backup (EABK23.ZIP): Saves extended attributes so that non-EA aware backup software preserves all necessary OS/2 data.
 * FM/2 Utilities (FM2UTILS.ZIP): FAT/HPFS defragmenters and more.
 * Galleria (GALLER22.ZIP): Graphics manipulation and screen capture utility. Also try PM Camera for screen capture.
 * GhostScript PM (GSPM26.ZIP): Postscript interpreter and viewer.
 * GTAK GNU tar (GTAK24.ZIP): Tape archive (backup and restore) utility. Supports SCSI tape drives.
 * HSwitch (HSWTCH02.ZIP): A task list for full screen sessions.
 * IBM Configurator and Pricer (ICPAUSA.ZIP): Prices IBM personal computer systems and accessories.
 * Icon Extractor (ICON_170.ZIP): Converts Windows icons to OS/2 format. Icons can be extracted from Windows executables. Assigns icons via drag and drop. Deletes undeleteable objects.
 * Icon Programming Language (ICON88.ZIP): A simple yet powerful programming language for many platforms, including OS/2 Warp. Supports graphical applications.
 * Info-Zip's UnZip 5.1 (UNZ512X2.EXE): Extract files from ZIP archives. PKZip 2.x compatible. Supports extended attributes. Companion utility, Zip 1.9, also available.
 * INI Maintenance (INIMT33D.ZIP): Edit and maintain your vital OS/2 INI files.
 * Internet Relay Chat (IRC2_021.ZIP): Connection to the Internet Relay Chat system. Works with OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection software.
 * McAfee's Virus Scan (OSC214.ZIP): Detects viruses. Companion Virus Clean and Net Scan utilities also available.
 * Minesweeper (DMINE121.ZIP): A game which requires you to avoid the mines in a minefield. Several other versions are available.
 * MR/2 (MR2_220.ZIP): Reader for BBS QWK mail packets. File manager and program launcher.
 * NetSuite (NSUITE1B.ZIP): A collection of popular Internet software packages.
 * OS2Exec (OS2EXEC.ZIP): Start any OS/2 program from any OS/2 DOS session.
 * OS2You (OS2YOU30.ZIP): OS/2 remote control over a modem or LAN connection. Companion program PM2You, for control of graphical applications, including DOS and Windows, is also available.
 * PMMPEG (PMMPG21A.ZIP): A software-only MPEG video player for OS/2 Warp -- perfect when using the Internet.
 * PM 'Poze (PMPOZE.ZIP): Music composition software for OS/2 Warp with support for MOD music files.
 * PM UUEncode/Decode (PMUUE120.ZIP): A friendly UUEncode/Decode utility for converting binary files to plain ASCII text and vice versa. Handy when using OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection.
 * PMView (PMVU86B.ZIP): Shareware GIF, JPEG, etc. image viewer with slideshow and drag-and-drop features. Other image viewers include JoeView, Image Archiver, and PMJPEG.
 * Pretty Good Privacy (PGP26OS2.ZIP): Encryption/decryption of files for enforcing privacy.
 * PS Assistant (PSAST101.ZIP): Provides information on most of the IBM personal computer product line, including OS/2.
 * psPM (PSPM2.ZIP): Displays a graphical representation of the processes running on an OS/2 system and allows termination of any or all.
 * 'Roids (ROIDS23.ZIP): The classic Asteroids game updated for OS/2 Warp, with multimedia.
 * Screen Blanker (BLANKR47.ZIP): Customizable screen saver and desktop lockup utility.
 * SIO COM Drivers (SIO145.ZIP): Replacement serial port drivers which offer enhanced performance.
 * Souper (SOUPER12.ZIP): Downloads e-mail and new messages in newsgroups from the Internet for later reading, offline. Works well with Yarn for OS/2.
 * StartD (STARTD22.ZIP): Provides the capability to start DOS sessions with specific, custom DOS Settings from the OS/2 command line.
 * UUPC/Extended (various): Provides uucp connection for mail, news, and other services.
 * Visual REXX (VREXX2.ZIP): Provides the ability to write REXX programs which use Presentation Manager windows, scroll bars, menus, and other features.
 * Workplace Shell Backup (WPSBK30.ZIP): Backup the OS/2 desktop.
 * Workplace Shell Tools (WPTOOL09.ZIP): Creates or deletes standard Workplace Shell objects.
 * Worldwide OS/2 BBS List (OS2WORLD.ZIP): List of BBSes around the world where OS/2 is the predominant area of discussion and where large OS/2 software archives are held.
 * Zap-o-Com (ZOC203.ZIP): A popular, full featured modem communications application from Germany.
 * ZipStream (ZS103A.ZIP): On-the-fly disk compression using a safer, file-by-file approach. Works with both FAT and HPFS.
 * ZTreeBold (ZTB120.ZIP): One of several file managers for OS/2 Warp. Others include FileJet, ADU/2, OS/2 Commander, and literally over a dozen others.

(3.4) Disk Utilities
Is there a Norton Utilities for OS/2 Warp?

Not yet, although Norton Desktop, Norton Utilities, and Norton Commander all work under OS/2 Warp's DOS/Windows sessions [with limitations; see (1.3) DOS and Windows Compatibility]. Also, Norton Commander is now available for OS/2 Warp.

However, there are at least three sets of system utilities just for OS/2 Warp: GammaTech Utilities, JFS Utilities, and Graham Utilities. All are available from dealers specializing in OS/2 Warp software. Note that OS/2 Warp has a built-in UNDELETE command (see the online Command Reference for instructions on how to enable UNDELETE), and HPFS is resistant to fragmentation [see (1.5) High Performance File System].

(3.5) Running a BBS Under OS/2 Warp
I would like to set up an OS/2 Warp BBS. What is available?

OS/2 Warp is an excellent environment for BBS operation (even using DOS/Windows software), including large multiline facilities. Related software will enable FidoNet capabilities, gateways to Usenet/UUCP, nodelist processing, additional file transfer protocols, and more.

Six popular OS/2 Warp BBSes are Maximus, Lora, and Simplex [available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources), Omega Point/2 (BBS 404-564-1961), Magnum (phone 818-706-9800, BBS 818-706-9805), and Multi-Net (phone 503-883-8099, BBS 503-883-8197).

For more information on operating a BBS under OS/2 Warp (with conferences devoted to the subject) log on to one of the OS/2 Warp BBSes listed in (4.11) OS/2 Warp BBSes.

(3.6) Multimedia (MMPM/2)
What do I need for OS/2 Warp multimedia applications?

OS/2 Warp includes support for both the Windows multimedia extensions and MMPM/2, the OS/2 Warp multimedia extensions, at no extra charge. OS/2 Warp's MMPM/2 includes software motion video support for IBM Ultimotion, Intel Indeo, and Autodesk FLI/FLC files. Software motion video provides playback of video clips in a window under OS/2 Warp. (Video for Windows will operate correctly under Win-OS/2, but Ultimotion is far more capable than Video for Windows. Ultimotion supports higher frame rates, larger image sizes, better synchronization of video and audio, stretching, and, often, simultaneous playback of two or more video clips, even with background tasks running.) An accelerated display adapter and a fast processor can help improve the quality of software motion video.

Drivers for the following multimedia adapters (audio, video capture, video display, MPEG, etc.) are included with OS/2 Warp: If you have an audio card that is not on this list, it may still work with a similar driver. For example, the MediaVision ProAudio Studio and ProAudio Spectrum Plus (see below) sound cards will work with the ProAudio Spectrum 16 driver. Also, many ATI sound cards work with the Creative Labs SoundBlaster or SoundBlaster Pro driver. Some ATI sound cards, however, require a BIOS upgrade.
 * AITech WaveWatcher
 * AudioDrive (ESS 688)
 * Business Audio (AD1848)
 * CEI Video Clipper
 * Compaq Business Audio
 * Creative Labs SoundBlaster
 * Creative Labs SoundBlaster 16
 * Creative Labs SoundBlaster AWE32
 * Creative Labs SoundBlaster Pro
 * Creative Labs VideoBlaster
 * Hauppauge Win/TV
 * IBM M-Audio
 * IBM Thinkpad Audio (Crystal)
 * MediaVision Jazz 16
 * MediaVision ProAudio Spectrum 16
 * New Media Graphics Super VideoWindows
 * OmniComp M&M Basic
 * Samsung VideoMagic
 * Sigma Designs Reel Magic
 * Sound Galaxy NOVA 16 Extra
 * Toshiba 4700C
 * Toshiba 6600C

Other drivers (including one for the popular Gravis Ultrasound) are available either from the manufacturer of your sound card or from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.

If you do not have a sound card, there is a MMPM/2 driver for the standard PC speaker, also available from OS/2 Warp shareware and freeware sources. However, this driver demands a huge amount of processor attention and does not provide sound quality that even approaches the simplest sound card.

Note that the MediaVision ProAudio Spectrum Plus operates correctly when using the built-in MMPM/2 ProAudio Spectrum 16 driver. However, to obtain full functionality you must change the PARAMSTRING line in the [ibmwavepas1601] section of the file \MMOS2\MMPM2.INI after installation of MMPM/2. Using a text editor (like the OS/2 System Editor), change the line so that BPS=8 instead of BPS=16. This change causes MMPM/2 to default to 8-bit audio (since the ProAudio Spectrum Plus does not support 16-bit audio).

REXX programs [see (5.11) REXX] can be used to play, record, and manipulate MMPM/2 audio and video files. For more information on REXX and MMPM/2, consult the online Multimedia with REXX document (located in the Multimedia folder).

More information on IBM's OS/2 Warp multimedia extensions (MMPM/2) and tools, Ultimotion, multimedia hardware, and IBM multimedia titles (e.g. Illuminated Manuscript) is available through IBM's Multimedia Office (phone 800-426-9402 ext. 150).

Support for DOS and Windows applications which require access to a sound card will depend on which sound card you have. Generally such applications will work fine. At the worst you may have to turn off MMPM/2 support and/or run only one DOS or Windows application which requires use of the sound card at a time. At best you can run DOS, Windows, and OS/2 applications which use the sound card at the same time. For advice on setting up DOS, Windows, and OS/2 multimedia applications, consult the Multimedia online document, located in your Information folder.

(3.7) Viruses

 * Should I worry about viruses when running OS/2 Warp?

At present there are no viruses specific to OS/2 Warp. However, DOS/Windows viruses can conceivably infect an OS/2 Warp system. DOS/Windows antivirus tools are just as useful in preventing such infection. Also, IBM has an antivirus package (AntiVirus/2) which runs under OS/2 Warp directly (without using a DOS or Windows session). To order AntiVirus/2, call 800-551-3579 (800-465-7999 in Canada). Other antivirus packages for OS/2 Warp include Central Point's AntiVirus, McAfee's SCAN and CLEAN, and Dr. Solomon's Antivirus Toolkit, Dr. Cohen, and F-PROT.

But OS/2 Warp is likely to be much more resistant to viruses because of its design. Viruses running in one virtual DOS/Windows session are likely to be confined to that session. Low level disk access is curtailed under OS/2 Warp, thus preventing most virus infection at that level. And when a DOS/Windows virus does trigger, it is far less likely to disrupt the entire system. In fact, OS/2 Warp is most vulnerable when it isn't in charge (i.e. when native DOS is being used). A DOS virus then has free reign to write to the hard disk and possibly disable OS/2 Warp. The greater risk comes from leaving OS/2 Warp.

OS/2 Warp is by no means virus proof -- no system is. But it should prove more resistant to virus infection.

(3.8) Networking Products

 * What networking products are available for OS/2 Warp?

Unfortunately, PC networking can be a complicated subject. The simple act of connecting two PCs can be easy, though, if you understand a little bit about how networks operate (and how they relate to OS/2 Warp). With that caveat in mind, here is a plain English introduction to networking with OS/2 Warp.

Drivers for Network Adapters

OS/2 Warp drivers are available for nearly all network adapters because of OS/2's dominant position as the software of choice for PC networking. There are two types of OS/2 Warp network drivers in general use: NDIS and ODI. ODI is only used by the Novell Netware Client Kit for OS/2. NDIS drivers are used for all other OS/2 networking software in common use.

If you only wish to connect your OS/2 Warp PC to Novell Netware servers using the Novell Netware Client Kit for OS/2, then you should use an OS/2 ODI network card driver. The driver will likely be supplied with the Novell Netware Client Kit for OS/2 (see below).

If you do not plan to run the Novell Netware Client Kit for OS/2, or you plan to run it in combination with other OS/2 networking or communications software, you should plan on using the OS/2 NDIS (also sometimes known as the IBM LAN Server) driver for your network card. The OS/2 NDIS driver is almost always found on a diskette accompanying your network card or can be obtained directly from the manufacturer. It may also be included in the OS/2 networking software you purchase (for example, IBM LAN Server 4 or Artisoft's LANtastic for OS/2). OS/2 NDIS drivers for many network adapters are also available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources, as well as vax.ftp.com via Internet anonymous ftp. Drivers for 3Com adapters are available via anonymous ftp from ftp.3com.com, from the 3Com Support BBS, or from CompuServe (GO THREECOM). Drivers for Cabletron adapters are available via anonymous ftp from ftp.ctron.com.

Make sure you request the driver intended for OS/2 Version 2.0 or later. OS/2 NDIS drivers written for earlier releases of OS/2 can be used, but they will require that you edit the accompanying .NIF file so that more recent installation programs will recognize it.

The Novell Netware Client Kit for OS/2 can use OS/2 NDIS drivers if you install an ODI to NDIS converter. This converter (or "shim") is supplied as part of either IBM's Network Transport Services/2 (LAPS) or the replacement product, IBM Multiprotocol Transport Services (MPTS/LAPS). (NTS/2 should be considered an earlier version of MPTS.) MPTS forms the core of all OS/2 Warp networking software. It provides the installation and configuration utility for matching network card drivers with networking protocols. IBM licenses MPTS to many vendors, and it is included with most OS/2 networking products. MPTS is almost always the first software you should install (after OS/2 Warp) to allow your PC to access a network. Using MPTS, you simply select your network card(s), then select which networking protocol(s) you wish to run with your network card(s), and MPTS takes care of the rest.

What Networking Protocols are Available?

There are few (if any) networking protocols which are not available for OS/2 Warp. A networking protocol is simply the language used for communicating with other systems across the network. OS/2 Warp allows you to use multiple networking protocols, at the same time, over the same network card, should you need to, so you can mix and match as need be (without taking away precious memory from your DOS applications). Sometimes networking protocols are available by themselves (packaged without any client software to take advantage of the protocol). For example, the IBM LAN Server 4 requester (client) software includes all the programs you need to access a server (or peer) running IBM LAN Server 4. It also includes MPTS with NetBIOS (the primary protocol used for communicating with systems running LAN Server, Windows for Workgroups, and NT, among others). However, the same MPTS includes other protocol support, including TCP/IP, 802.2 (SNA/APPN), and the ODI to NDIS converter (used to run the Novell NetWare Client Kit for OS/2). Other times OS/2 networking software comes with everything you need in one box. Still other times the software which uses a particular networking protocol is packaged separate from MPTS and the protocol support. For example, the Internet Connection, part of OS/2 Warp's BonusPak, works only with a modem using a dial-up connection to the Internet unless you add MPTS (which provides TCP/IP protocol support for network cards).

There are four primary networking protocols for PCs in use today. If you are just starting to venture into the world of PC networking, you need not understand everything about these protocols, but you should know what popular OS/2 Warp networking software uses each.


 * TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol)

As the name suggests, TCP/IP is the predominant protocol used for connecting systems into the Internet. Due to the popularity of the Internet, and due to the fact that TCP/IP is available for a larger variety of systems than any other networking protocol, TCP/IP use is growing rapidly. TCP/IP is designed to be routed over wide area networks, so it is well suited for campus environments and for connecting many remote locations. However, TCP/IP has several disadvantages. It can be difficult to configure (although OS/2 Warp's TCP/IP support is the easiest yet devised). It treats all network traffic the same, regardless of its importance. It is not very efficient handling exceptionally busy network links. It cannot guarantee delivery of real time information (and thus doesn't work particularly well with audio and video). Finally, NFS (Network File System), the software used to share disks over a TCP/IP-based network, lacks features and performance.

The following software packages for OS/2 Warp provide TCP/IP protocol support for network adapters (in other words, they include MPTS):
 * IBM DCE Client Kit for OS/2
 * IBM LAN Server 4
 * IBM LAN Server 4 Requester (Client) for OS/2 (comes with LAN Server 4)
 * IBM AnyNet/2
 * Most other products with MPTS

The following software packages for OS/2 Warp provide TCP/IP protocol support plus TCP/IP access software beyond that included with OS/2 Warp: Includes both client and server software, including telnetd, ftpd, rshd, rexecd, and more. Add-on kits are available for NFS (server and client), X Window Server, Domain Name Server, X.25 Extended Networking, and more. Other protocols (such as NetBIOS) can be encapsulated and routed over TCP/IP. (MPTS provides the support to do so.) WinSock support is provided with OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection software, so you can run any TCP/IP or Internet software designed for Windows under OS/2 Warp. See (0.4) Special Report on OS/2 Warp for additional information on TCP/IP, the Internet, and OS/2 Warp.
 * IBM TCP/IP Version 2 for OS/2 Base Services Kit (requires latest Service Pak)
 * IBM TCP/IP Version 2 for OS/2 Accessory Kits (require latest Service Paks)


 * NetBIOS/SMB

NetBIOS is the "native" protocol used by IBM LAN Server, Artisoft's LANtastic (Version 5 and later, including LANtastic for OS/2), Windows for Workgroups, Microsoft Windows NT, Microsoft LAN Manager, and several other PC-based network software packages. The protocol is fairly well standardized, and all these systems can "talk" to one another. NetBIOS is the highest performance networking protocol available for PCs (or, more precisely, IBM LAN Server 4 Advanced has been rated the fastest PC network server by LANQuest Labs when compared with Microsoft NT Advanced Server, which uses NetBIOS, and Novell Netware, which uses the IPX protocol). However, its major disadvantage is that it cannot be easily routed over wide area networks (see above).

The following software packages for OS/2 Warp provide NetBIOS protocol support for network adapters: The following software packages for OS/2 Warp provide NetBIOS protocol support for your network card plus access software for sharing disks, printers, etc., over a NetBIOS-based network: The premier peer-to-peer networking package for OS/2 Warp. Quickly, easily, and inexpensively connects you to other OS/2 Warp PCs with LANtastic or IBM LAN Server, and Microsoft Windows for Workgroups and NT PCs. LAN Times raves that LANtastic for OS/2 is much easier to use than any other version. Rated the fastest network operating system by LANQuest Labs. Available in both Entry and Advanced versions, and second only to Novell Netware in marketshare, IBM LAN Server 4 now includes both TCP/IP and NetBIOS protocol support, drag-and-drop administration, better documentation, and a host of other enhancements. Winner of "Best of Show" at Networld+Interop. Offers connection to any NetBIOS-based server, even using NetBIOS over TCP/IP. Also offers limited peer-to-peer networking. Diskettes containing this software are included with IBM LAN Server 4 only. In short, for small peer-to-peer networks, Artisoft's LANtastic for OS/2 is an excellent choice. When your needs grow, IBM LAN Server 4 Entry Edition fits the bill. And, when your needs require the fastest PC server you can get, IBM LAN Server 4 Advanced Edition is the wise move. IPX is a protocol which was designed by Novell. It is used to connect to Novell Netware servers and to PCs running Personal Netware.
 * IBM LAN Distance
 * IBM Network Transport Services/2
 * IBM Communications Manager (Version 1.1 or later)
 * Most other products with LAPS
 * IBM DCE Client Kit for OS/2
 * IBM AnyNet/2
 * Most other products with MPTS
 * Artisoft's LANtastic for OS/2
 * IBM LAN Server 4
 * IBM LAN Server 4 Requester (Client) for OS/2
 * IPX/SPX

The following software packages for OS/2 Warp provide IPX protocol support and Netware access software for your network card: Updated regularly (the latest version is Release 2.11), the Netware Kit for OS/2 is freely available from Compuserve, OS/2 Warp BBSes, and many other electronic sources. (Novell collects revenue from higher priced servers and provides free or nearly free client software.) To use the Netware Kit with OS/2 NDIS drivers (and other OS/2 Warp networking software), be sure to select Netware support when you configure your network card using MPTS. If you only plan to use your network card to access Novell Netware servers, you can use an OS/2 ODI driver (if available). A kit which allows you to install the regular Novell Netware 4.01 server software on an OS/2 PC. Your complete Netware server can then run alongside any other DOS, Windows, or OS/2 applications, even IBM LAN Server 4, on the same PC. IBM's enterprise networking protocols are collectively referred to as SNA (Systems Networking Architecture). These are the protocols used to connect PCs to other PCs, midrange systems (such as the AS/400), and mainframe systems (such as the ES/9000). SNA protocols are similar to TCP/IP in that they are being used to connect a variety of different systems together. However, SNA protocols offer features such as rollback/commit options (for keeping databases in sync), priority markers (for giving more important traffic preference), and better utilization over busy networks.
 * Novell Netware Client Kit for OS/2
 * Novell Netware for OS/2 (from IBM)
 * 802.2/SNA

Communications Manager/2 is a comprehensive package designed for enterprise networking with SNA protocols using dial-up, ISDN, coax, or network links. Terminal emulation (IBM 3270, IBM 5250), file transfer (IND$FILE), APPC/APPN, SDLC, LU 8.2, and more are all included. In other words, all the access software you need for taking advantage of IBM's enterprise networking is in one integrated package. Communications Manager/2 Version 1.1 (or later) includes NTS/2 (LAPS).

What Other Networking Packages are Available for OS/2 Warp?

The four primary protocols are not the only protocols in use today (and they are not the only protocols which are available for OS/2 Warp). Other packages include: Designed to run alongside a PC running IBM LAN Server 4, LAN Server for Macintosh allows the same server to be accessed by Apple Macintoshes on the network. It makes an IBM LAN Server 4 system look like an AppleShare server.
 * DEC Pathworks (DECnet)
 * Banyan Vines Requester (Client) for OS/2
 * AppleTalk (included with Lotus Notes for OS/2)
 * IBM LAN Server for Macintosh

In addition, there are many other software packages designed for networks which are also designed for OS/2 Warp. Some are servers (Lotus Notes, cc:Mail Post Office for OS/2, and database servers such as IBM DB2 for OS/2 and Sybase System 10 SQL Server). Some are gateways and middleware (for example, IBM LAN Distance, which provides secure dial-up access to your office network; your modem behaves just like a network card, up to the speed of your modem). Some help manage networks (like IBM Netview for OS/2, IBM NetFinity, and CA-Unicenter from Computer Associates). Some let you control a PC over the network (IBM DCAF, Hilgraeve's KopyKat, and SCA's Poly/PM, for example). Some automate backups over a network (IBM ADSM). Some check for viruses (IBM Antivirus/2, McAfee ViruScan for OS/2). Some help you install software over a network (IBM LAD/2, IBM NetView Distribution Manager). And some just simply don't fit into any neat category (including Global Village's Faxworks LAN, IBM DCE, IBM SOM Toolkit, and IBM Time and Place/2). By no means is this a comprehensive list. And these software packages aren't reinventing the wheel; they all use one (or more) of the above mentioned networking protocols to communicate. So, for example, you might choose Artisoft's LANtastic for OS/2 and the Lotus Smartsuite for OS/2 (which includes cc:Mail for OS/2) to set up a small PC network with electronic mail, since cc:Mail works fine with NetBIOS.

Suffice it to say that OS/2 Warp is the most connected PC operating system, and it connects with style. Infoworld, in fact, calls OS/2 the best network client (and awarded it the "Interoperability Award").

(3.9) Peer-to-Peer Networking
How do I connect an OS/2 Warp machine into a peer-to-peer network?

There are three preferred packages for connecting your OS/2 Warp PC into a peer-to-peer network: Simplest, easiest, and least expensive. Rated 4.5 (out of a possible 5 points) by LAN Times. Connects with other LANtastic PCs (DOS, Windows, and OS/2), IBM LAN Server, Microsoft LAN Manager, Windows for Workgroups, and Windows NT.
 * Artisoft's LANtastic for OS/2

NFS (Network File System) is the standard way to share disks with other systems across a TCP/IP network (including the Internet). The IBM NFS Kit turns any OS/2 Warp PC into an NFS client and server. If you want to participate in a peer-to-peer network with many Unix-based workstations (including IBM's RS/6000s), this choice is best. If you have TCP/IP protocol support from some other networking product (such as one which includes MPTS), the IBM TCP/IP Version 2 for OS/2 Base Services Kit is not absolutely required.
 * IBM TCP/IP Version 2 for OS/2 with NFS Kit

APPN/APPC protocols for peer-to-peer networking are provided in this comprehensive package for IBM enterprise networking with SNA. Your OS/2 Warp PC is a full peer with midrange systems (such as the IBM AS/400) and mainframes (such as the IBM ES/9000). If these acronyms are foreign to you, try LANtastic for OS/2.
 * IBM Communications Manager/2

(3.10) Extended Services
What is Extended Services?

Prior to Version 2.0, IBM offered two separate packages with each release of OS/2: Standard Edition and Extended Edition. Extended Edition included extra, bundled software products: the Communications Manager (for communication with IBM mainframes, minicomputers, and other hosts), Database Manager (a full, network aware, relational database), and LAN Requester.

Later, IBM unbundled the Extended Edition features, dropped LAN Requester from the package (now available separately, with IBM's LAN Server), updated it for OS/2 2.x, and renamed it Extended Services 1.0. ES, by itself, did not include the base operating system as Extended Edition once did.

Most recently, IBM has stopped selling Extended Services, splitting it up into DB2 for OS/2 (a full 32-bit relational database) and Communications Manager/2. With each component available "a la carte," you can configure your OS/2 Warp system to your exact specifications (almost always at a lower cost), and you are free to substitute similar products from other vendors (so you aren't locked into IBM's offerings).

To install the now obsolete Extended Services 1.0 under OS/2 2.1 or later, you must replace the ESSTART.CMD file on ES Diskette 1 with the ESSTART.BAK file found in the \OS2\INSTALL directory. Remember to keep a backup of the old file.

(3.11) Internet Connection
How do I connect my OS/2 Warp PC to the Internet?

The following information is adapted from a chapter appearing in the forthcoming book Internet Secrets from IDG Books, a comprehensive guide to the Internet.

IBM's flagship software for PCs, OS/2 Warp, ships with a BonusPak of full fledged 32-bit applications, including a suite of Internet access applications. This section describes those capabilities, why you might choose OS/2 Warp to connect to the Internet, and how to configure and customize some of the special features found in the OS/2 Warp Internet Connection.

What is OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection?

The Internet Connection supplied with the basic OS/2 Warp package provides everything you need to access the Internet using a direct dial-up SLIP or PPP connection. There are two modem dialers supplied with the package. One registers you with the IBM Global Network (currently the only worldwide dial-up Internet service provider) and the other lets you sign onto any third party provider of your choice. Three free hours of Internet access on the IBM Global Network are provided with every copy of OS/2 Warp.

OS/2 Warp's BonusPak also includes Person to Person, Video IN, Multimedia Viewer, and other applications which enhance the capabilities of the Internet Connection software. Person to Person allows you to engage in "conference calls" on your PC, where you can exchange information using a shared chalkboard and even broadcast video signals if you have a high speed connection and the necessary hardware. Whatever you copy into your chalkboard (such as a Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheet) is seen by others in your Person to Person conference. Participants can draw lines, add text, point to items, and annotate inside the shared chalkboard window. Person to Person works over many types of networks, including the Internet Connection. Video IN allows you to record video clips from a VCR, laserdisc player, or other video signal using any of several video capture adapters for your PC. However, even if you do not have a video capture card, you can use OS/2 Warp's Video IN to create animated weather sequences, for example, like those you see on television as part of the weather forecast. You can use the Internet Connection to download weather maps of your favorite part of the world, then assemble those weather maps into a movie using Video IN. Multimedia Viewer extends OS/2 Warp's multimedia capabilities so that you can view and collect several image types (such as Kodak Photo CD, TIFF, GIF, Targa, and others) as well as play back audio files from other systems (such as the Sun .AU format), file types which are common on the Internet.

OS/2 Warp has several key benefits, all by itself, which make it a powerful platform for accessing the Internet. One of OS/2's key strengths for years has been its ability to reliably handle communications (including modem traffic) in the background along with other tasks. OS/2 Warp provides true preemptive multitasking and multithreading (often called "real multitasking"). Other operating environments, including Microsoft Windows and Macintosh System 7, provide cooperative multitasking. The difference is that OS/2 Warp, and not individual applications, is in charge of your PC's processor. In a cooperative multitasking system, if one programmer writes one application which does not yield control of your PC's processor back to the operating system in timely fashion, everything else stops running. Unfortunately that failure happens all too often. With OS/2 Warp, you can reliably and confidently download a file from the Internet using ftp, browse the World Wide Web using the IBM Web Explorer, format a diskette, print a document using your favorite word processor, and still run other DOS, Windows, and OS/2 applications. File transfers will not abort, and connections won't be dropped, simply because you try to go do something else.

With OS/2 Warp, you are encouraged to go spend your time doing other things while receiving information from the Internet (or doing anything else, for that matter). That capability allows you to save a lot of online time (and charges), because you can have several tasks running at once. (Many OS/2 Warp users, for example, run two or more copies of the IBM Web Explorer simultaneously. While one is retrieving a page from the World Wide Web, the other can be read, without in any way disturbing any other task.) Preemptive multitasking also means that OS/2 Warp can be used just as easily as a server, delivering information over the Internet as requested. OS/2 Warp systems are used as ftp, gopher, and even World Wide Web servers, for example.

Finally, many "Internet in a Box" packages are sold in software dealerships, often for $100 or more. The entire OS/2 Warp package, including the BonusPak with the Internet Connection, is typically priced at $79 or less. The user community for OS/2 Warp is active, enthusiastic, and fast growing, and you can get help, advice, and assistance from members of that community through the Internet, even on a real time basis.

Installation

The Internet Connection (and other BonusPak applications) comes on a separate set of diskettes (or CD-ROM) in the OS/2 Warp package. Inside the BonusPak box you'll find a brief manual explaining each of the BonusPak applications and how to install them. A common installation program is provided (INSTALL.CMD) which you should ordinarily use. Select those applications you wish to install, one-by-one, from the common installation program.

If you have the CD-ROM version of the OS/2 Warp BonusPak, be sure to select the correct version for the country where you live. The BonusPak CD-ROM contains directories (such as US for United States and NO for Norway) for the various countries of the world. Run INSTALL.CMD from the correct directory.

Note that you do not have to shutdown and reboot your PC until after you have installed all the BonusPak applications you wish to use, after you have exited the common installation program. You do not need to reboot after installing each single application.

To shutdown your OS/2 Warp PC, either:
 * 1) Move the mouse pointer so that it is pointing anywhere on the desktop background. Tap the right (second) mouse button. Select Shutdown. Or,
 * 2) Click on the Shutdown button (can also be a little picture of a PC with a moon on the screen) located on the LaunchPad.

A proper shutdown will assure that all the changes you have made to your desktop will be saved.

Registering with the IBM Global Network

Even if you plan to use a third party Internet provider, you should register with the IBM Global Network to use your three hours of free time. The Internet Connection software is designed to be upgraded over a modem, and the IBM Global Network will automatically update your OS/2 Warp Internet Connection to the latest version when you first sign on. Plus, you can download the IBM Web Explorer (a free World Wide Web browser for OS/2 Warp) by double clicking on the Retrieve Software Updates icon, located in your IBM Internet Connection for OS/2 folder. If for some reason you do not wish to sign onto the IBM Global Network, you can retrieve the latest version of the Internet Connection software and the Web Explorer via anonymous ftp from ftp.ibm.net.

The latest rate information for your country is provided when you sign on to the IBM Global Network. When the rates are displayed, you are given the opportunity to then proceed with sign on or abort. Generally speaking, IBM Global Network's rates are attractive if you either travel from place to place (and need local access to the Internet from two or more cities, especially abroad) or if you must dial long distance (and incur extra charges) to dial another Internet service provider. If you live in a major metropolitan area, well served by other Internet service providers, and you rarely (if ever) need access to the Internet from other cities, you might want to investigate other providers (which may be less expensive).

After you have installed the Internet Connection and restarted your OS/2 Warp PC, you should see a folder called IBM Information Superhighway on your desktop. Double click on this folder to open it, then double click on the IBM Internet Connection for OS/2 folder. Inside you will see a folder called IBM Internet Customer Services. Double click on this folder, then double click on the Registration icon located inside. Follow the instructions provided to sign on. Make sure your modem is turned on and working. If you do not know which type of modem you have, just choose Default. Make sure you select the correct speed for your modem. A V.32bis modem, for example, usually will work best set to 19,200 bps.

If you ever need help accessing the IBM Global Network, double click on the Customer Assistance icon (located inside the IBM Internet Customer Services folder), and click on the Ask for help button. Telephone numbers and other ways of reaching IBM Global Network support worldwide are provided.

Be sure to write down your account information (especially your password). You will need your password every time you wish to sign on to the IBM Global Network to access the Internet. You can sign on to the IBM Global Network using the IBM Internet Dialer program (in your IBM Internet Connection for OS/2 folder) or by double clicking on any of the available applications (such as Gopher).

You can modify the settings for your modem, local access number, and other settings from the Dialer. Start the Internet Dialer, then click on the Cancel button to prevent your modem from dialing. A second window, which provides information on the commands send to your modem, will pop up. Just click on the settings button, and an OS/2 settings notebook for the Dialer will then appear. This settings notebook is a common fixture in OS/2 Warp, and it is used for altering the properties of virtually any object. Click on the tabs of the notebook to switch among categories of settings, and click on the arrows in the lower right of the notebook to flip pages back and forth.

Internet Connection Applications

The key Internet applications are included with OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection. They include Gopher, NewsReader/2, Ultimedia Mail/2 Lite, telnet, telnet 3270, and ftp. (The IBM Web Explorer is available for download using the Retrieve Software Updates program.) These applications are straightforward counterparts to versions for other platforms. However, there are some special features unique to OS/2 Warp.

NewsReader/2

The Internet Connection's NewsReader/2 is a graphical application to access NNTP (Network News Transport Protocol) Internet news servers. This application communicates with the news server over your connection with the Internet provider to receive messages contained in the 7,000 plus forums found on the Internet. Facilities are provided for reading messages, posting or mailing replies, using your favorite text editor, and even decoding so-called Rot13 messages, which is an encoding method often used by people who wish to provide mild protection against accidental reading of a message. For example, Rot13 can be used to encode messages which contain information about the plot in a new movie, including its conclusion, and you as a reader have to go through the task of directing NewsReader/2 to decode the Rot13 text if you want the information. :note.NewsReader/2 is not a "threaded" newsreader, meaning that it does not provide total flexibility over following "chains" of messages by subject. However, you can achieve nearly the same effect by changing NewsReader/2's settings to sort newsgroups by subject.

Many Internet messages are intended to be viewed on dumb terminals, where the characters on a given line can line up exactly with characters located on lines below. People often construct elaborate (or not so elaborate) text "drawings," using vertical bars, dashes, and other characters to create boxes and other shapes, lines, and pictures. These features will not display correctly unless you are using a monospaced (as opposed to proportionally spaced) typeface. In NewsReader/2, you can select either the System VIO or System Monospaced screen fonts (in your choice of sizes) to get better results when viewing messages that contain these features.

The first time you start NewsReader/2, you will be prompted to obtain the full list of available newsgroups. Allow NewsReader/2 to fetch this list, but go ahead and use some of the other Internet Connection applications while the list is downloading.

Ultimedia Mail/2 Lite

This mailer is POP compliant, so you can use it with any Internet service provider which provides a POP mail server. It also supports MIME mail, so you can easily send and receive binary attachments to e-mail (including multimedia files, Kodak Photo CD images, etc).

The Ultimedia Mail/2 Lite folder contains the various parts of this e-mail application. To check whether you have received any electronic mail, simply double click on the In-basket icon. After Ultimedia Mail has connected to the server, any e-mail in your in-box will be displayed with some basic information (subject, author, etc). The icon to the left of each piece of mail may contain a number inside. If so, it indicates that the message has not only a text part, but also attachments (such as binary files). The number indicates the total number of parts contained in that piece of e-mail (the main text counts as one part). Simply double click on a piece of e-mail to open and read it. A menu is available for each piece of e-mail. Simply point to the piece of e-mail and tap the right (second) mouse button. You can use this menu to delete e-mail that you do not wish to read, for example. :note.Use the sample e-mail that the IBM Global Network sends you to practice reading, editing, and deleting Internet electronic mail.

You can save e-mail in folders, collecting related pieces of mail in any chosen categories. Mail that you send is automatically saved in its own folder so that you have a record of correspondence with other people. To draft a new piece of e-mail (and send it to someone else), double click on the New Letter icon. The main window for composing e-mail will then appear. :note.Every time you connect to your Internet service provider, be sure to check your In-basket. You will not be automatically notified that you have e-mail waiting. However, most POP mail servers will hold your e-mail for long periods of time, so if you do not remember to check, your mail won't be lost just because you hang up. :note.Ultimedia Mail Lite supports drag-and-drop extensively. To attach a file or picture to a new letter, for example, simply drag the file or picture to the rectangular area to the left of the message entry area. To save a file attached to received e-mail, drag out of the rectangular area to the desktop or a folder.

When you use the IBM Global Network to access the Internet, your e-mail address is username@ibm.net, where "username" is whatever name IBM assigned to you when you registered. You can give this Internet address out to other people, and they can send e-mail to you from anywhere in the world.

telnet and telnet 3270

The templates for these applications are located in the Application Templates folder (located in the IBM Internet Connection for OS/2 folder). To create a telnet session, for example, simply "tear off" one of the telnet templates and drag it to any other folder (or to the desktop). Remember that OS/2 Warp, by default, uses the second (right) mouse button to drag and drop. Then fill in the host information with the name of the system you wish to reach using telnet. The telnet 3270 (for accessing mainframe computers across the Internet) and ftp templates work similarly. If you don't want to create an icon for every system you log onto, use the telnet, telnet 3270, and ftp icons located in the Internet Utilities folder.

You can cut and paste using the Internet Connection's telnet and telnet 3270 applications. (The telnet 3270 icon is used for accessing IBM mainframe systems over the Internet. For example, you can reach the IBM OS/2 BBS subscription service and other IBMLink services by using telnet 3270 to connect to ibmlink.advantis.net.) Command line (character mode) versions of these applications are available as well (from any OS/2 command line, full screen or windowed). :note.The telnet and telnet 3270 applications do not include built-in file transfer capabilities. If the system you wish to connect to supports it, simply open another window and use ftp to transfer files. However, some systems will not allow ftp for sending and receiving files (CompuServe, for example, which is reachable by using telnet to connect to compuserve.com). If so, you may wish to use the freely available C-Kermit for OS/2 as a replacement for telnet. C-Kermit, and many other OS/2 Warp Internet packages, are available from the ftp sites listed below.

ftp

The OS/2 Warp Internet Connection comes with both command line (character mode) and graphical versions of ftp (file transfer program) for sending and receiving files from various servers on the Internet. (Popular ftp servers for OS/2 software are listed below.)

The graphical version (FTPPM) first presents a window which prompts you for login information (such as user name and password). Many servers are so-called "anonymous" servers (meaning that a user name of "anonymous" will allow you to log on and retrieve any files located in public directories). You should, however, still enter your e-mail address as a password. (Some anonymous ftp servers even require it.) Ordinarily you can leave the Account entry blank; some systems (primarily IBM mainframes) may require it, but most do not.

The main FTPPM window has two primary sections. At the top you will see a view of your own PC's hard disk, and you can navigate through directories and select files just as you would with most other applications. In the section below, you will see a directory listing from the remote ftp server, and you can navigate through its directories very similarly.

There are two common pitfalls encountered by first time users of FTPPM. The most common is forgetting to select the correct file type before transferring a file. There are two file types available: ASCII (plain text) and binary. The default is ASCII, but the default may not be appropriate depending on the type of file you are trying to send or receive. Also, you should remember that most remote ftp servers are case sensitive (so if you have to type a file name, be sure the case you type matches its directory listing, letter for letter). Finally, be sure that you have indicated where you want files to go when you download files from remote servers. Otherwise, FTPPM is likely to place them in the root directory on your PC's hard disk, and you may not want them there.

Gopher

Gopher is supplied with OS/2 Warp and provides the ability to navigate through a set of servers on the Internet which are all interconnected. You can double click on menus and files listed in your Gopher window to navigate across various Internet servers. Weather maps, software, library catalogs, and much more are available.

OS/2's Gopher is quite straightfoward. You can readily distinguish between files and submenus by looking at the icons to the left of each menu item. Submenus are indicated by gopher icons. If you double click on a submenu, you will get a window with a new set of options displayed. :note.Gopher will, by default, create a new window when your menu selection takes you to another server. You can use this fact to speed up your searches, because you can go back to the original window and select another menu option to branch off in a different direction. In fact, as with other applications on OS/2 Warp, you can use other Gopher windows while one is still downloading information from a server. To get a list of all the open Gopher windows, simply bring up the OS/2 Warp Window List by pressing CTRL-ESC.

IBM Web Explorer

The IBM Web Explorer is a free, downloadable addition to your Internet Connection. You can install it on your system by double clicking on the Retrieve Software Updates icon.

The Web Explorer, like Mosaic and other browsers, is designed to access the Internet's World Wide Web. It is a fully multithreaded browser, meaning that it can receive multiple incoming streams of information simultaneously. This multithreaded design speeds up retrieval of WWW pages.

You can configure the Web Explorer to use practically any external program for viewing various file types (audio, video, pictures, etc). However, by default the Web Explorer will use both internal viewers and (if installed) the BonusPak's Multimedia Viewer, to handle the wide variety of file types stored in WWW pages. Many of these file types are not native to the PC, and the Multimedia Viewer can convert such files to PC readable formats. (For example, Sun .AU audio files are very common, and the Multimedia Viewer includes support for listening to these audio files.)

Because the World Wide Web is highly graphical, you will get best results by using the Web Explorer on a display with 256 colours or more. Also, WWW pages can be large (and take lots of time to download). However, there are many ways you can make your time on the World Wide Web much more efficient using the Web Explorer. These tips include:

1. Use two (or more) copies of the Web Explorer simultaneously. While one is downloading a page, you can be reading and selecting a link in another. By default, OS/2 Warp will not start multiple copies of any object simply by double clicking on its icon again. To change this default behavior, simply point the mouse pointer at the Web Explorer program object, tap the right (second) mouse button, then select Settings. The familiar OS/2 settings notebook will appear. Click on the Window tab, and change the object open behavior to open another window. Close the settings notebook, then double click on the Web Explorer icon to launch another copy.

2. Use the QuickList feature to save favorite pages you have visited. The Web Map feature can help you track where you've been.

3. Save pictures and even entire WWW pages using OS/2 Warp's drag-and-drop features. The pictures and other elements in a WWW page, as viewed by the IBM Web Explorer, are objects. Using the right (second) mouse button, you can drag and drop a picture of Barney the Dinosaur, for example, to your OS/2 Warp desktop or any folder to save it. You can use this method to rapidly create an animated weather sequence from weather maps (in tandem with the BonusPak's Video IN application). Be careful, though, that you do not violate any copyright restrictions.

Resources on the Internet for OS/2 Warp Users

You can receive help, information, tips and techniques, and other assistance using OS/2 Warp through the Internet. The OS/2 Warp community on the Internet is large and friendly. Here are just some of the places to visit:


 * Newsgroups
 * comp.os.os2.misc
 * comp.os.os2.advocacy
 * comp.os.os2.apps
 * comp.os.os2.networking.misc
 * comp.os.os2.networking.tcp-ip
 * comp.os.os2.programmer.oop
 * comp.os.os2.programmer.tools
 * comp.os.os2.programmer.porting
 * comp.os.os2.programmer.misc
 * comp.os.os2.games
 * comp.os.os2.setup
 * comp.os.os2.bugs
 * comp.os.os2.beta
 * comp.os.os2.announce
 * comp.binaries.os2
 * comp.lang.rexx
 * anonymous ftp
 * ftp-os2.cdrom.com
 * ftp-os2.nmsu.edu
 * software.watson.ibm.com
 * gopher
 * index.almaden.ibm.com
 * World Wide Web
 * http://www.ibm.com
 * http://www.ibm.net
 * http://www.mit.edu:8001/activities/os2
 * Internet Relay Chat (IRC)
 * #os/2

Popular Additions to the Internet Connection

You can retrieve free and low cost software to add to your OS/2 Warp system from the anonymous ftp sites listed above. Here are some of the most popular: More applications are being written and released with each passing month, so consult the OS/2 newsgroups and ftp sites for the latest.

You can also use any Windows Internet software with OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection. The Internet Connection includes WinSock support (using the WINSOCK.DLL file). Please be sure, though, that the WINSOCK.DLL file supplied by the Internet Connection is the only file by that name on your PC's hard disk.

Using Third Party Dial-Up Internet Providers

You need not use the IBM Global Network to access the Internet with OS/2 Warp. (However, three hours of free access is free time, and you should use it at least to get the latest versions of Internet software.) The Internet Connection (after using the Retrieve Software Updates program) supports connections to almost any third party Internet service provider using the standard SLIP or PPP protocols. The dialer even supports scripting using OS/2's built-in REXX programming language, so it can respond to any given login procedure used by your preferred Internet provider. (A sample script, ANNEX.CMD, is provided with the Internet Connection to get you started. Consult the online help for complete information on how to create such a script. In most cases, though, either you will not need a special script or your Internet service provider of choice has the necessary information you need to get connected. Be sure to ask your provider for instructions using OS/2 Warp to connect.)

The Dial Other Internet Providers icon is located in the Internet Utilities folder and is the application used (instead of the IBM Internet Dialer) to access third party providers. You can place several different providers (and dial-up access numbers) in the Dial Other... directory. Be sure to select SLIP, CSLIP (SLIP with VJ compression), or PPP protocol, as appropriate. Once connected to your Internet provider, all the Internet Connection applications will operate exactly the same way, provided the numeric Internet addresses for the various servers required (nameserver, POP mail server, etc.) are correctly configured.

Using OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection with a Network Card

See (0.4).

At the time of this writing, IBM has started testing a release of OS/2 Warp with additional bundled applications (including full support for ethernet, Token Ring, and other network cards) formerly sold separately. This so-called "OS/2 Warp for Networks" is scheduled for release sometime in the first half of 1995. The larger BonusPak, with the extra networking software, will be available as an upgrade for base OS/2 Warp as well.

(3.12) Backup Software
What backup software is available?

Generally DOS backup programs will work under OS/2 Warp, but they may not capture some OS/2 data (especially extended attributes) on the hard disk without the assistance of utilities such as EABackup [see (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources].

OS/2 Warp backup tools are available, notably: Note that BackMaster now supports portable tape drives designed to attach to a parallel port, including those made by Colorado/HP, as well as other tape drives (SCSI and non-SCSI).

Keeping your data and applications safe and secure means that you have a well rehearsed backup and restore strategy. This strategy should be tested, because your backup is only useful if it can be restored. Make sure that the OS/2 Warp backup software you choose has the features you need for your backup strategy and that it supports a wide variety of tape backup systems (including yours).

(3.13) Multiuser Extensions and Security
What multiuser extensions and security options are available?

OS/2 Warp, as it ships, does not provide multiuser capabilities. These capabilities are provided by add-ons which deliver security, network access by many users, remote control capabilities, or some combination of features. Commercial products for remote and network access include: Products which provide security features (including software designed to protect OS/2 Warp in a computer lab, where PCs are used by many different people, one at a time) include: As always, you should contact each vendor for additional information so that you can determine which software best meets your needs for security, remote access, network access, and multiuser capabilities with OS/2 Warp.

(3.14) Disk Compression Software
What on-the-fly disk compression software is available?

Stacker 4 for OS/2 and DOS (Stac Electronics, phone 619-431-7474), DCF/2 (Proportional Software, phone 303-484-2665), and ZipStream (shareware, Carbon Based Software) are available for OS/2 Warp.

Stacker provides on-the-fly disk compression for FAT drives only. The product provides compression for both DOS and OS/2 in the same package, and it will convert MS-DOS DoubleSpace, DriveSpace, and PC-DOS 6.x SuperStor/DS disk compression into Stacker format.

DCF/2 compresses both FAT and HPFS drives. The DCF/2 container file can even be located on other devices besides hard disks.

ZipStream is available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources. It works with both FAT and HPFS, and it compresses files individually (without using a large container file).

(3.15) Dealers Specializing in OS/2 Warp
Are there any dealers that specialize in OS/2 Warp products?

The following software dealers are either totally or predominantly geared to OS/2 Warp customers:
 * Below Zero (800-461-2777, 403-547-0669, or FAX 403-547-1018). Based in Calgary. Will export to the United States and other countries.
 * Indelible Blue (800-776-8284, 919-834-7005, or FAX 919-783-8380). Offers a huge selection of OS/2 software at reasonable prices. Based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and will export.
 * Mfg's Rep. Co. (800-808-4672, 415-525-2700, or FAX 415-525-2707). One of three California-based dealers specializing in OS/2 Warp software.
 * Office Solutions (800-897-APPS, 310-439-5567, or FAX 310-438-7888). Another major California-based OS/2 Warp software vendor. "Supported by Team OS/2," and courts OS/2 user group members aggressively.
 * OS+ Resource (800-804-8588 or FAX 310-804-6154). The third California-based OS/2 software dealer, stocking a wide variety of applications.
 * OS/2 Solution Centre (44-285-641175 or FAX 44-285-640181). Primarily for European OS/2 Warp users, but will export elsewhere. Offers some OS/2 Warp titles available no where else. Located in Gloucestershire, England. Discounts available to members of the International OS/2 Users' Group.
 * OS/2 Express (800-672-5945 or FAX 301-770-1720). OS/2 Professional magazine's mailorder operation for OS/2 software and accessories.

(3.16) Image Scanners
How can I use my scanner with OS/2 Warp?

There are three basic approaches to using your image scanner with OS/2 Warp. In decreasing order of attractiveness:

1. Buy Native OS/2 Warp Software. Real 32-bit OS/2 software gives you the best results, integrates well with other OS/2 applications, and works reliably. OS/2 software packages for scanners are now available, including Applause from Solution Technology (407-241-3210 or FAX 407-997-6518) and ImpOS2. (Applause is available in versions for Logitech and HP scanners.)

2. Use Existing DOS/Windows Software (SCSI-based Scanner). Many scanners for PCs are attached to SCSI adapters (like those from Adaptec) for which there are OS/2 .ADD device drivers. You can use your existing DOS or Windows scanner software if you follow these steps:
 * 1. Load the OS/2 .ADD driver for your SCSI adapter. OS/2 Warp will do so automatically for Adaptec, BusLogic, DPT, IBM, and MediaVision/Trantor SCSI adapters. You need a BASEDEV=XYZ.ADD line in your CONFIG.SYS file in order to load the correct driver, where XYZ.ADD is the name of the OS/2 driver file for your SCSI adapter.
 * 2. Configure OS/2 Warp for ASPI support. Make sure that the following two lines are in your CONFIG.SYS file: BASEDEV=OS2ASPI.DMD DEVICE=X:\OS2\MDOS\VASPI.SYS where X is replaced with the drive where OS/2 is installed.
 * 3. Load TWAIN device drivers in a DOS/Windows session and run the software. Your scanner or scanning software probably came with a device driver for so-called TWAIN support which is designed to work with ASPI (Adaptec SCSI Programming Interface). Since you have just configured OS/2 Warp to provide ASPI services to your DOS and Windows sessions, you can now load device drivers (such as TWAIN drivers) and software which uses ASPI. (Since OS/2 Warp is providing ASPI services, do not attempt to load DOS or Windows SCSI or ASPI drivers.) Consult the documentation accompanying your scanner and/or scanning software for additional advice.

3. Use Existing DOS/Windows Software (non-SCSI Scanner). If your scanner is attached to a proprietary adapter (often not a SCSI adapter), you may use a specific DOS session under OS/2 Warp to load the necessary device drivers (including a driver for the proprietary adapter) and run your scanning software.

(4.0) Installation, Maintenance, and Support
The following questions are addressed in this section:

(4.1) Installation
'''I am having trouble installing OS/2 Warp. What should I do?'''

First consult the printed manual and other materials accompanying OS/2 Warp. Make sure your PC meets the system requirements in (2.1) Hardware Requirements. And if the following instructions do not help, fall back on IBM's free technical support (phone 800-992-4777 in the United States). You can also use the (4.10) Problem Report Form. For help with printing, see (2.3) Printer Support.

Configuring PC Devices

The most common problems in installing and configuring OS/2 Warp occur because two or more devices in your PC are sharing interrupts (IRQs), port I/O addresses, memory address space, or DMA (Direct Memory Access) channels. Any system with AT bus slots (even systems with only EISA or PCMCIA slots) can exhibit configuration problems to at least some degree if the various devices are not configured properly. (Microchannel systems are designed to be Plug and Play and are the only systems which avoid these problems. OS/2 Warp supports Plug and Play for PCMCIA, which prevents potential configuration problems unless you add a docking station with AT bus and/or VESA Local Bus slots.) Such configuration problems are actually not related to OS/2 Warp in particular; they are due to the way PC hardware is designed and can affect all software (see below).

More precisely, if your PC is using any AT bus or VESA Local Bus adapters, you must be extremely careful to configure these cards properly so that no system resources (including IRQs) are used by more than one device. Unfortunately so-called Plug and Play (for AT bus) will not be the answer to configuration problems, since any AT bus adapter which does not support the Plug and Play specification (very few do today) can (and often will) come into conflict with other devices, and even a Plug and Play PC probably will not be able to determine what resources that "old" card is using. In short, be careful.

How to configure the devices in your PC will depend on both the device and the PC. With Microchannel PCs (designed to be Plug and Play ever since their introduction), configuration is done entirely in software, automatically, using a Reference Diskette. With AT bus cards, DIP (Dual Inline Package) switches and jumpers are the norm. However, devices which are built into PCs with AT bus and/or VESA Local Bus slots are sometimes configured using software, either on diskette or built into the PC's ROM BIOS setup program.

If you do have a PC with AT bus and/or VESA Local Bus slots, you should write down the names of all the devices in your system and the IRQs, I/O addresses, memory space, and DMA channels that they use. Create a chart with this information, and keep it with your PC. Every time you add or remove a device (or change a device's configuration), you should record these changes on your PC's chart. Use the information below as a guide to get you started, bearing in mind that PCs do vary, and you will need to confirm each piece of information. In OS/2 Warp you can use the RMVIEW command to explore your PC's use of resources (as seen by OS/2 Warp). At any OS/2 Warp command line, type RMVIEW /? for an explanation of the command's options.

As stated above, there are four kinds of resources which any device in your PC can use:
 * Interrupts (IRQs). When an event occurs which your PC needs to respond to (such as clicking a mouse button), a signal (called an interrupt) is sent to your PC's processor by the interrupt controller. The interrupt controllers (there are two) are responsible for monitoring sixteen IRQ lines, numbered 0 to 15. The first controller responds to IRQs 0 to 7. The second controller handles 8 to 15. Only the first controller is actually allowed to "talk" to your computer's processor. If the second controller receives an interrupt (for example, as a result of a network card signalling incoming information), it signals this event to the first controller by triggering IRQ number 2 and passing the true IRQ number (8 to 15) to the first controller.

This design is called a "cascade," and it is important to understand because many adapters which you can install inside your PC claim to use IRQ 2. In fact, they are actually using IRQ 9. When the AT bus was created (as an upgrade from the 8-bit slots found in the original IBM PC and PC/XT), this cascade design was adopted so that IRQs 8 to 15 could be added without a radical redesign. Since IRQ 2 was needed so that the first controller could "listen" to the second, the original IRQ 2 was rewired to IRQ 9. Therefore, 8-bit cards are able to use IRQs 0 to 7 (except 2) and 9. Any 16-bit AT bus cards are able to use IRQs 0 to 15 (except 2), for a total of 15 possible interrupts. Still, the documentation accompanying many adapters suggests that IRQ 2 can be used when, in fact, IRQ 2 was rewired (as part of the card slot) to trigger IRQ 9 long ago.

No devices in your PC should ever share IRQs (unless you have a Microchannel PC, where sharing of these fifteen available IRQs is allowed.) Most PCs use the following default IRQ assignments: "Available" simply means that typically (not always) these IRQs are not prereserved for particular devices and, if not already taken, may be used by other adapters.
 * Port I/O Addresses. Most devices in your PC require a range of memory addresses (usually 8 bytes) located low in the range of possible addresses. These are called port I/O addresses, and, for shorthand, they are typically recorded using just one number three digits in length. For example, COM2 (communications port 2) normally uses the port I/O addresses 02F8 through 02FF (hexadecimal), but often the documentation for a device which can use a COM2 assignment simply refers to the address range required as 2F8 (sometimes called a base address, or base I/O address).

Port I/O addresses are locations in memory where your PC's processor can place information (to be received by a device) or read information (to be retrieved from a device). So, for example, one of the available eight port I/O addresses used by COM2 is used for receiving information from, for example, a modem. A second location is used to pass information on to the modem, to be sent out. Each device which requires port I/O addresses may not use all eight available, but, nonetheless, port I/O addresses are reserved in blocks of eight. No other device in your PC can share another device's port I/O addresses.

Fortunately, conflicts involving port I/O addresses are rare. To avoid conflicts, make sure that you record any port I/O address blocks used by any of the add-in cards inside your PC. Devices which are built into your PC (such as your PC's keyboard controller) use standard port I/O addresses which are well understood by manufacturers of add-in cards, and so add-in cards cannot be set to use these blocks. Still, one adapter can conflict with another if your PC's chart is not recorded carefully. COM ports use the following port I/O addresses by default: Device  Port I/O Address Block COM1    3F8 to 3FF COM2    2F8 to 2FF COM3    3E8 to 3EF COM4    2E8 to 2EF Some 8514/A compatible video cards (notably those made by ATI) may use port I/O addresses which are ordinarily reserved for COM3 or COM4. Reconfigure COM3 and/or COM4 (if present) to avoid conflicts. Common add-in devices which use port I/O addresses include network, SCSI, and sound cards.


 * Memory Address Space. In the PC design, a range of memory addresses (typically from hexadecimal A000:00 to DFFF:FF) was set aside for the use of add-in adapters (including video). Adapters can use banks of memory (of varying sizes) in this range to allow your PC's processor to run programs from ROM (Read Only Memory) located on the adapter and to communicate with the adapter (for example, by placing information into video memory for display on your PC's screen). Video cards, SCSI adapters, video capture cards, network cards, and even sound cards are common users of memory address space in this region.
 * DMA Channels. DMA (Direct Memory Access) channels are used by devices which need to access your PC's main memory (RAM) directly, without requiring attention from your PC's processor. Using DMA can help increase the responsiveness of your system, freeing your PC's processor to do other things. Like IRQs, DMA channels are numbered 0 to 15, but all sixteen are available (none are cascaded). DMA channel 2 is normally reserved for the diskette controller. Most others are available for use by some SCSI adapters, network cards, sound cards, video capture cards, tape backup controllers, some CD-ROM adapters, and other devices. As with any other PC resource, DMA channels cannot be shared. Conflicts can cause your system to stop working.

If you think configuring PCs with AT bus and/or Local bus slots is harder than it should be, and requires more expertise than should be necessary, you are probably right. However, there are solutions (both current and proposed) to these hardware configuration nightmares. One has been on the market since 1987, namely Microchannel. The PCI bus is also configured through software, automatically, providing Plug and Play. And OS/2 Warp supports Plug and Play for PCMCIA. Some manufacturers and vendors are working on Plug and Play for the AT bus. However, these technologies for the older AT bus (and for VESA Local Bus) don't address the core problem, namely systems which have the capability to accept adapters which are not designed for any Plug and Play scheme. Nearly all the AT bus and VESA Local Bus adapters on the market today, not to mention all such adapters purchased over the years, do not support Plug and Play. Drop such a card into even the best Plug and Play PC, and suddenly you are back trying to figure out which devices are using which resources in order to resolve conflicts.

IBM recommends that, as a consumer, regardless of the software you choose to run, you purchase a PC with a full understanding of these issues. If you choose a PC with Microchannel, PCI, and/or PCMCIA slots exclusively, you will be buying a system which is much easier to configure, saving you time and money. (If these designs mean the PC is more expensive, it may be worth the higher initial expense to save time and money over the life of the system.) If you purchase a system with EISA, AT bus, and/or Local Bus slots, in order to make such a system easy to configure with Plug and Play you should demand from the manufacturer both Plug and Play BIOS (in the system itself) and all Plug and Play adapters. The moment an adapter which is not Plug and Play ready is added to such a system is the moment when your configuration work might begin.

Other Installation Issues

Code         Description 0000         Divide by zero error 0001         Debug exception 0002         Non-Maskable Interrupt (usually memory parity error) 0003         Breakpoint (one byte INT 3 instruction) 0004         Overflow 0005         Bounds check (BOUND instruction) 0006         Invalid opcode 0007         Coprocessor not available 0008         Double fault 0009         (Reserved) 000A         Invalid TSS 000B         Segment not present 000C         Stack exception 000D         General protection 000E         Page fault 000F         (Reserved) 0010         Coprocessor error 0011-001F    (Reserved) 0020-00FF    Available for external interrupts via INTR pin
 * Be sure your CMOS setup parameters are set correctly, especially those relating to floppy drives. RAM should be given sufficient wait states and precharge cycles. Test with cache memory and/or shadow RAM disabled if necessary. The AT bus should run at 8 MHz. For best performance, make sure all your RAM is set to be cacheable.
 * Older Adaptec SCSI adapters may require a free BIOS upgrade to recognize hard disks larger than 1 GB. Adaptec can be reached at 800-442-7274 or 408-945-8600. Some Quantum LPS105AT IDE hard disks require a free ROM update (to Version 2.6) from the manufacturer to work with OS/2.
 * If your AMI keyboard BIOS is below Revision F you may need an update. Contact Washburn & Assoc. (phone 716-248-3627) for an inexpensive replacement.
 * Check to make sure keyboard DIP switches are set correctly. For example, if the keyboard is attached to a system with an AT bus it should typically be switched to "AT" mode.
 * "Autoswitching" on non-IBM EGA adapters should be disabled (usually with a DIP switch or jumper setting). In rare cases it may be necessary to switch third party VGA/SuperVGA adapters into 8-bit mode and/or disable "autosense." See (2.2) SuperVGA Support.
 * OS/2 Warp is particularly sensitive to bad RAM or cache memory (often reflected in TRAP 0002 error messages). Use a thorough RAM testing utility, and try not to mix 9-chip and 3-chip SIMM/SIPP memory modules. When upgrading, avoid adding RAM which is not rated (in nanoseconds) at least as fast (i.e. with an equal or lower number) as the RAM already in the system.
 * Allow several minutes for OS/2 Warp to build your desktop (and display icons) at the end of installation - take the Tutorial offered to you in the meantime. Be sure to take a look at the documents found in the Information folder, too.
 * Try disconnecting any tape backup device if "Cannot find COUNTRY.SYS" messages are encountered when booting OS/2 Warp. This error message may also indicate that OS/2 Warp cannot find its boot drive, usually because of an improperly loaded or omitted hard disk .ADD device driver.
 * An Always IN-2000 SCSI adapter with BIOS 3.06A or 3.20 requires an updated version from the manufacturer. A companion 8-pin serial PROM chip may also need to be updated. Contact Always at 818-597-9595. Also ask about non-IBMINT13.I13 driver support.
 * The TI TM4000 notebook may require a BIOS update to run OS/2 Warp; phone 817-771-5856 for help. Also ask about an OS/2 Warp driver for the QuickPort trackball. Before installing OS/2 Warp on this machine, be sure to set Advanced OS Power off and HDD Motor Timeout Always On in the second page of the machine's setup screen.
 * For the technically advanced user, the following list of TRAP error codes may help you in addressing OS/2 Warp problems. Report any such TRAPs to IBM using the (4.10) Problem Report Form.

(4.2) Installing from Drive B
I can't install OS/2 Warp from Drive B. What's wrong?

IBM OS/2 Warp can only be installed starting from Drive A, like DOS (unless your BIOS supports booting from Drive B). After booting from Drive A, OS/2 Warp can then be copied from CD-ROM or across a network. (For more information on installation across a network, see Remote Installation and Maintenance, IBM Publication No. GG24-3780. Related publications include Automated Installation for CID Enabled OS/2, IBM Pub. No. GG24-3783, and Automated Installation for CID Enabled Extended Services, LAN Server and Network Transport Services/2, IBM Pub. No. GG24-3781.) You could open your machine and swap floppy drive cable connectors, use your system's setup utility to set the new CMOS parameters, and then install OS/2 Warp from the "new" Drive A. Sometimes the floppy drive cable connectors will not be the same. If so you can obtain an adapter plug.

You may also use IBM's twin "bootstrap" diskette images [see (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] to boot from a 5.25 inch Drive A and install using 3.5 inch OS/2 diskettes inserted into Drive B. These two diskettes are also available free of charge from IBM OS/2 Warp Technical Support. However, this procedure should only be used if absolutely necessary.

Since an ever increasing number of PC software packages is only available on 3.5 inch diskettes (or CD-ROM), IBM recommends that you take the time now, if at all possible, to reconfigure your PC so that you have a 3.5 inch Drive A.

(4.3) Hard Disk Partitioning
What is the best way to partition my hard disk for OS/2 Warp?

There is no single best way to partition your hard disk for OS/2 Warp. For some advice on the subject you should consult the printed documentation accompanying OS/2 Warp. Opinions vary, even among experts.

What is partitioning?

Your PC's hard disk is organized into sections called partitions, much like an apartment building is split into separate units. Each section or unit can be used for a different purpose, with different furniture (files) contained inside. Like an apartment building, the partition walls can be torn down, moved, and rebuilt, but usually at great expense and with a lot of disruption. The furniture (files) must be moved out of the unit (partition) and saved before remodelling (repartitioning). When you run out of space inside a partition, you can either split your furniture (files) among two or more units, or you can remodel.

With DOS (and with OS/2 Warp) partitioning may not even be a concern because it may have been done already, automatically. Quite often your PC arrives with one hard disk containing just one partition - the simplest configuration. When you install OS/2 Warp, by default it will be copied alongside DOS (if it exists) to this one partition (Drive C), and you will be able to switch between plain DOS and OS/2 Warp using DualBoot. (An icon is placed in your OS/2 Warp Command Prompts folder which lets you switch to plain DOS, and the BOOT /OS2 command lets you switch back to OS/2 Warp. Note that the BOOT program is located in the \OS2 directory, so you may have to use the command C:\OS2\BOOT /OS2 so that DOS can find the program.)

However, there are reasons why you may wish to set up separate partitions and/or repartition your hard disk(s). In OS/2 Warp, the FDISK utility (or the Advanced installation program) allows you to repartition. First some definitions: These definitions hint at some complexity should you decide you wish to partition your hard disk(s) in some way other than single, large primary partition(s). Remember that repartitioning involves backing up all your files, partitioning your hard disk as desired, reformatting each logical drive, and restoring files. (See below for an exception to this procedure.) Consequently, because of the work involved, you may opt to avoid repartitioning anyway. (It also means that you should think carefully about how to organize your hard disk(s) so that you avoid work later on.)

Some Advice

To simplify these decisions, you should keep in mind that, in general, partitions are meant to be used to separate that which must be separated of necessity. The partitioning system was invented to allow your PC to store multiple operating systems which had different types of file systems (in other words, different ways of storing files on your hard disk). DOS uses the so-called FAT (File Allocation Table) file system, for example. Unix might use a Berkeley file system, a completely different way of storing the information required to manage directories of files. Because these file systems might be incompatible, separate areas of the hard disk (partitions) must be set aside, with one operating system never touching the other's partition(s).

OS/2 Warp (in its basic package) supports two file systems: the DOS FAT scheme and HPFS. So, as you might expect, if you want both DOS and OS/2 Warp, and you wish to use HPFS on the same (physical) hard disk, you need two partitions (one for DOS and its FAT file system, one for HPFS), even though OS/2 Warp itself could be located on the FAT logical drive. You want to choose partition sizes so that each logical drive can handle expected growth in the number and sizes of new files that are added to each.

That advice suggests (correctly) that you should not impose separate partitions for other reasons, generally speaking. For example, never create a separate logical drive for your OS/2 Warp swap file or print spool files. Also, it rarely makes sense to create a separate drive to divide application or program files from data files (for backup purposes, for example). With both DOS and OS/2 Warp's file systems, subdirectories should be used for that purpose.

Restrictions

There are reasons why you might be forced to create separate partitions despite tendencies not to. For example, the DOS FAT file system grows less and less efficient (from both a performance and storage standpoint) as the size of a logical drive grows. Moreover, the FAT file system can only cope with a maximum partition size of two gigabytes. Hard disks larger than 2 GB using the DOS FAT file system must be divided. Also, on many PCs, because of BIOS restrictions, your startable (primary) partition must be physically located entirely below the 1024th cylinder on your hard disk (or, roughly speaking, it must be no larger than about 511 MB). When the original IBM PC was designed and first sold in 1981, hard disks were small, (usually 10 MB or less in size), expensive (in the thousands of dollars), slow, and relatively uncommon, so the BIOS built into the system was never designed to boot from such "enormous" hard disks. While your first, startable partition (the one containing DOS and/or OS/2 Warp) must often be located entirely below the 1024th cylinder, another partition can be created which spans this cylinder and occupies the remainder of the hard disk (HPFS recommended).

"Ideal" Arrangements

What does all this boil down to? In a perfect world, starting from scratch, there are probably two common, "ideal" configurations. If you wish to use both DOS and OS/2 Warp on the same PC, and switch between plain DOS and OS/2 Warp easily, you should partition your hard disk as follows: If you wish to use OS/2 Warp exclusively, there's probably nothing better than:
 * 1) Boot Manager (1 MB);
 * 2) Primary Partition with Drive C, FAT file system, containing DOS (large enough to contain DOS itself plus all the files which you expect you will need to get access to when running plain DOS);
 * 3) Extended Partition with one logical Drive D, HPFS, containing OS/2 Warp (remainder of the hard disk).
 * 1) Primary Partition with Drive C, HPFS, containing OS/2 Warp (entire hard disk).

Of course, we do not live in a perfect world, and you are probably not starting from scratch, so, for sheer convenience (or other reasons), your chosen partitioning scheme will vary. If you find that the partitioning you choose does not suit you, the worst that can happen is that you will need to create a complete backup of all your files and restore those files after reorganizing your hard disk. A new software package called Partition Magic from PowerQuest can ease even this procedure, because it allows both on-the-fly conversion of FAT to HPFS (keeping files intact, where they are) and, as long as free space permits, movement of the partition lines (a bit like a sliding wall in an apartment building). Regardless, you should have a backup strategy that preserves all your important information.

How are drive letters assigned?

A common source of confusion arises with the assignment of drive letters. Both DOS and OS/2 Warp use drive letters (C, D, etc.) to refer to logical drives. Some applications (including Windows and OS/2 Warp itself) depend on these drive letters to a great degree, so that if you repartition, and the drive letter changes (so that the application believes it is located on a different drive, because a different drive letter was assigned to its drive), the application may not run correctly (or at all).

OS/2 Warp assigns drive letters in the following order (with some oversimplification here): then, when OS/2 Warp is started, the primary partition containing DOS will not be assigned a drive letter, and the drive containing OS/2 Warp will be assigned C. When DOS is started from the Boot Manager menu, the drive containing OS/2 Warp will be assigned D. (This "shift" in drive letters argues for having only one primary partition when using Boot Manager, or for making the OS/2 Warp primary partition HPFS, which is skipped by DOS.) Confused by all these partitioning rules and outcomes? Remember: keep it simple.
 * 1) A and B are reserved for the first and second diskette drives in the PC, regardless of whether or not they are actually installed and available.
 * 2) C is assigned to the first logical drive found in an active primary partition. In practice, C is assigned to the logical drive containing DOS or, if installed to a primary partition, the logical drive containing OS/2 Warp. If C is not assigned to a primary partition's logical drive, and that primary partition is physically located ahead (in front) of the logical drive which was assigned C, that primary partition will be totally skipped. In other words, if the partitions are as follows:
 * 3) Boot Manager
 * 4) Primary Partition (DOS, FAT)
 * 5) Primary Partition (OS/2 Warp, FAT)
 * 1) The next drive letter(s) (D, E, etc.) is(are) assigned to the remaining primary partitions' logical drive(s), in sequence, located on all the hard disks in the system.
 * 2) The next drive letter(s) is(are) assigned to logical drive(s), in sequence, in the extended partitions located on all the hard disks in the system.
 * 3) The next drive letter(s) is(are) assigned to other devices connected to the PC (such as CD-ROM drives).
 * 4) Drive letter(s) can then be assigned (not necessarily in sequence) to remaining drives, such as network drives.

(4.4) Starting OS/2 Warp from Diskette (and CHKDSK)
How do I access HPFS partitions on my hard drive without booting from the hard drive? I'm getting error messages now - how do I "repair" my hard disk?

With IBM OS/2 Warp, insert the Installation Diskette, Shutdown (if necessary), and reboot. When prompted insert Diskette 1 and press ENTER. When prompted, press the F3 key. You will be given an OS/2 Warp command line prompt. From there you can make necessary changes to your hard disk - an OS/2 Warp character mode text editor called TEDIT is provided on the OS/2 Warp Installation Diskette for such changes. (Make sure you backup CONFIG.SYS before making any changes so that you can easily revert to the old version should things go wrong.)

You may use this diskette boot method to run CHKDSK on your FAT or HPFS volumes. After you reach the command line, insert Diskette 2. Do not log to another drive. Type CHKDSK X: /F to repair most kinds of damage to your hard disk, replacing X with the appropriate drive letter. OS/2 Warp CHKDSK will also mark your hard disk as accessible, if possible, should OS/2 Warp "lock it out" for some reason. It will also allow Workplace Shell drive objects to open properly if they are not functioning correctly. Repeat for each drive letter you wish to check and/or correct.

"Errors" may be reported by CHKDSK if OS/2 Warp was booted from the hard disk. These "errors" are normal. Since the hard drive is in use by OS/2 Warp itself (and files are open) CHKDSK is unable to accurately report errors.

The best way to avoid the need to perform CHKDSK is to always select Shutdown before turning off your PC. Click on the Workplace Shell desktop background using mouse button two to bring up the appropriate menu. Also, avoid manipulating OS/2-related files when using native DOS. Finally, enable auto-checking for all your hard disk volumes. For HPFS volumes use the /AUTOCHECK parameter in the IFS=...HPFS line in your CONFIG.SYS. For FAT volumes use the AC parameter in the DISKCACHE line of your CONFIG.SYS. See the online Command Reference for details.

The Create Utility Diskettes program, located in the OS/2 Warp System Setup folder, is designed to create a set of three diskettes which can be used to get to an OS/2 Warp command line prompt (and to provide the essential utilities often used when booting OS/2 Warp from diskette, including FDISK and TEDIT). If for some reason you cannot boot OS/2 Warp from the hard disk, these diskettes are handy for conducting emergency repairs.

(4.5) Technical Support
How can I get answers to my OS/2 Warp questions?

If your question is not answered in this List, post a note to the appropriate Usenet conference on the Internet. (You can use NewsReader/2, part of OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection, to read and post messages in Internet newsgroups.) These groups are watched closely by OS/2 Warp experts from IBM. Also, comp.lang.rexx discusses REXX programming.

Internet Relay Chat (IRC) has a dedicated channel (#os/2) which provides round-the-clock, real time OS/2 Warp support and information thanks to the efforts of several volunteers. A version of IRC for OS/2 Warp is available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.

The latest IBM AIX, RS/6000, and OS/2 Warp related product announcements are now available via Internet anonymous ftp from ibminet.awdpa.ibm.com (192.35.233.1) in directory /pub/announcements.

You can also obtain OS/2 Warp information through the Internet's World Wide Web (WWW). You can use the IBM Web Explorer (available for use with OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection) to browse these URLs: Your local FidoNet BBS may carry OS/2 Warp echo conferences and/or OS2NET. If not, ask your system operator to join them. CompuServe (GO IBMOS2), Smartnet (an international network of PCBoard BBSes), and Prodigy (JUMP OS/2 CLUB) are also excellent resources.

The IBM PC Co. BBS's (modem 919-517-0001) message areas, product database, and PS Assistant file(s) are invaluable resources. For information on the IBM OS/2 Warp BBS (available through IBMLink) please call 800-547-1283. In the United States IBM has free technical support (phone 800-992-4777; some services require a toll call), an OS/2 Warp Hotline (general information, orders, upgrades, phone 800-3-IBM-OS2; ask about OS/2 Warp videotapes, T-shirts, and other accessories), the HelpWare Center (for help with IBM brand PCs, phone 800-PS2-2227), a software order line (phone 800-IBM-CALL), and two FAX information services (phone 800-IBM-4FAX and/or 800-IBM-3395). In Canada phone IBM Personal Systems Software at 800-465-1234.

OS/2 Warp developers should contact the IBM Developer Assistance Program (phone 407-982-6408); membership is free. (You may also join on CompuServe with GO OS2DAP. IBM's DAP can also be reached by Internet mail at wwdap@vnet.ibm.com.) The OS/2 Warp Developer's Connection CD-ROM, containing a wide selection of development tools and code, is available from IBM (phone 800-6-DEVCON to order in the United States; in Canada, phone 800-561-5293; in Europe, phone 45-3-252-6588 or FAX 45-3-252-8203; elsewhere, phone 61-2-354-7684 or FAX 61-2-354-7766.) (The OS/2 Warp Device Driver Kit CD-ROM is also available from the Developer Connection order centers.)

IBM offers classes worldwide to help in using and programming OS/2 Warp; phone your local IBM branch office (or the OS/2 Warp Hotline) for more information, or call IBM Education and Training at 800-IBM-TEACh. IBM Education and Training also has information on testing to become a certified OS/2 Warp and/or IBM OS/2 LAN Server professional. OS/2 Warp education and training is also available from any of the third party providers listed in the directory provided with every copy of OS/2 Warp. If you did not receive a copy of this directory, please contact the IBM OS/2 Warp Hotline at 800-342-6672 to request one. For more information on the IBM Independent Vendor League (and to find out how to be listed in the Solutions Directory), please call 203-452-7704 or FAX 203-268-1075. You may also dial the IBM I.V. League BBS at 203-380-8264.

If you need to reach any individual at IBM, but you do not know that person's direct telephone number, call the IBM Switchboard at 800-IBM-3333. If you need to send electronic mail to any IBM employee who is reachable via the Internet, but you do not know that employee's address, try sending a message to nic@vnet.ibm.com with a Subject line that reads whois Smith, John (replacing Smith, John with the last name and first name of the person you are trying to reach). Leave the body of the message empty.

See (4.9) for information on OS/2 Warp publications. Any of the regular DOS or Windows resources (e.g. books, magazines, shareware/freeware sources) will be useful since OS/2 Warp supports DOS and Windows applications.

(4.6) Corrective Service Diskettes
What are CSDs, how do I tell which I have, and where do I get them?

CSDs are Corrective Service Diskettes, or bug fixes (Service Paks), periodically issued by IBM. The OS/2 Warp CSD level number may be obtained using the command SYSLEVEL from an OS/2 Warp command line prompt. CSDs are cumulative, i.e. only the most recent CSD is required to bring a system up from any previous CSD level. However, CSDs only apply within a major version number. For example, an upgrade, not a CSD, would bring OS/2 Version 2.1 up to Version 3. Note also that each national language (e.g. French, U.K. English) uses a distinct CSD.

CSDs may be ordered by phoning 800-494-3044. Customers with IBM customer numbers (usually large sites) should order through IBMLink. Outside the United States, ask an authorized IBM dealer or representative for the CSD. CSDs may also be downloaded from the IBM PC Co. BBS (modem 919-517-0001), CompuServe (GO IBMOS2), or from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources. And CSDs may be ordered through IBM's OS/2 Warp BBS.

The latest, current OS/2 Warp CSD level will be listed in this List and in the PS Assistant files. At present there is no Service Pak for OS/2 Warp. The latest Service Pak for OS/2 Version 2.1 and OS/2 for Windows is Level 06300.

(4.7) Online Services
Which online services support OS/2 Warp, and how do I join?

IBM's official non-IBM online service for OS/2 Warp user and developer support is CompuServe (GO IBMOS2). In the United States you can obtain a free introductory CompuServe membership by calling 800-524-3388 and asking for Representative 239. (Note that it is now possible to connect to CompuServe through the Internet from anywhere in the world at no extra charge. Simply telnet to compuserve.com.)

IBM maintains an unofficial presence on many other networks, including the Internet. (You can use OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection to access the full range of Internet services.) For general information on the Internet consult one of the many books describing the network. One example: The Whole Internet by Ed Krol, O'Reilly & Associates (phone 707-829-0515), ISBN 1-56592-025-2. Once you start using the Internet you should peruse the information files posted to the news.answers newsgroup to familiarize yourself with Internet resources.

The OS/2 Warp Roundtable (Page 1400, Keyword OS2) has opened on GEnie. To subscribe to GEnie, set your communications software to half duplex and either 1200 or 2400 bps then have your modem dial 800-638-8369 (800-387-8330 in Canada). Upon connection, type HHH and press RETURN. At the U#= prompt type SIGNUP and press RETURN, then follow the directions given.

Delphi not only provides full access to the Internet (GO INT), but there is also a dedicated OS/2 Warp forum (GO CUS 41) available on the service. The base rate is only $20 for 20 hours of access per month. To sign up for Delphi's five hour free trial and save the $19 sign-up fee (if you end up joining permanently), (1) call 800-695-4002 with your modem; (2) at the CONNECT message press ENTER a couple times; (3) at the USERNAME prompt type JOINDELPHI and press ENTER; (4) at the PASSWORD prompt type CUSTOM41 and press ENTER; (5) follow the instructions to sign up for the service. (Your five free hours expire at the end of the calendar month you sign up for Delphi, so you probably will not want to sign up at the end of the month unless you use the free time right away.)

Prodigy, BIX, any many other online services also offer OS/2 Warp support and information.

(4.8) User Groups
Are there any OS/2 Warp user groups?

The following OS/2 Warp user groups meet regularly. You can obtain the most up-to-date list of OS/2 Warp user groups and SIGs (Special Interest Groups) using the IBM Web Explorer to connect to URL http://www.austin.ibm.com/pspinfo/ibmpcug.html. If your favourite OS/2 Warp user group is not listed below, please mail details to ibmpcug@vnet.ibm.com. See (6.1) Promoting OS/2 Warp for information on IBM assistance to OS/2 Warp user groups.

Note that addresses given are mailing addresses, not necessarily meeting locations. Also, please respect the time of individuals named below. Most are volunteers. Inquiries should relate to the activities of the group.
 * Australia
 * Melbourne PC User Group, OS/2 SIG 66 Albert Road, 2nd Floor South Melbourne, Victoria 3205
 * Sydney PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box E162 St. James Sydney, NSW 2000
 * Austria
 * Anwender/2-The Styrian OS/2 Users Group Merangasse 82/II/9 A-8010 Graz
 * Belgium
 * Alex Wyckmans OS/2 User Group Belgium Maurits Sabbestraat 128 B-2800 Mechelen +24-2-536.81.24
 * OS/2 Working Group GUIDE Karel Van der Haegen, K.U. Leuven Faculteit E.T.E.W., Dienst Informatica Naamsestraat, 69 Leuven, B-3000
 * Canada
 * Alberta
 * Central Alberta OS/2 User Group Greenwood Business Centre c/o BRIDGE Scientific Services 205, 10607 - 82 Street Edmonton, AB T6A 3N2
 * Calgary OS/2 User Group c/o David Volk P.O. Box 2844 1680 West Calgary, AB T2P 3E3
 * British Columbia
 * Vancouver PC Users' Society, OS/2 SIG c/o Jonathan Story P.O. Box 12 Vancouver, BC V6C 2L8
 * Rick Bird Victoria OS/2 User Group 2518 Wentwich Road Victoria, BC (604) 390-7196
 * Multitasking SIG (OS/2) c/o Greater Victoria PC Users Assoc. P.O. Box 5309, Station B Victoria, BC V8R 6S4
 * OS/2 LAN Users Group c/o Tracey Kerr, IBM Canada Ltd. 1803 Douglas St., 2nd Floor Victoria, BC V8T 5C3
 * Manitoba
 * Winnipeg OS/2 User Group c/o Paul Marcino P.O. Box 2914 Winnipeg, MB R3C 4B5
 * Nova Scotia
 * OS/2 Atlantic Users Group IBM - Canada 1969 Upper Water St., 12th Floor c/o Natalie Wilson Halifax, NS B3J 3R7
 * Mr. Ralph Mercer Annapolis OS/2 Support Group Box 5080 Greenwood, NS BOP 1NO (902) 765-8824
 * Ontario
 * Ottawa OS/2 Users Group IBM Canada Ltd. Attn: Karen Wright 55 Metcalfe Street Ottawa, ON K1N 8X1
 * Kawartha Computer Club, OS/2 SIG 460 Scriven Road Bailieboro, ON K0L 1B0
 * David Jones Personal Computer Club of Toronto, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 5429 Station A Toronto, ON M5W 1N6 (416) 274-4811
 * Peter Kraiker Toronto OS/2 Sysops (TorontOS/2) 508 Soudan Ave. Toronto, ON M4S 1X3 (416) 480-0360
 * George Oliver OS/2 Corporate Focus Group TCS (Canada) Ltd. 700 Dorval Drive, Ste. 202 Oakville, ON L6K 3V3 (905) 849-1390
 * Joseph A. Kovacs K-W OS/2 Corporate Users Group 33 Manor Park Crescent Guelph, ON N1G 1A2 (519) 767-0894
 * London OS/2 Users Group John Roesner c/o Links Custom 1000 Pond Mills Road London, ON N6N 1A2
 * North Bay OS/2 Users Group c/o Michael Lavallee 790 Laurentian Ave. North Bay, ON P1B 7V2
 * Quebec
 * Gilles Kirouac Club OS/2 de Quebec as: Systemes Myriades 3652 Chemin St-Louis Ste-Foy, QC G1W 1S9
 * Estrie Area OS/2 User Group c/o Francois Menard P.O. Box 142 Sherbrooke, QC J1H 5H8
 * Gilbert Lefebvre Club des Utilisateurs d'OS/2 de Montreal 10214 Ave Peloguin Montreal, QC H2C 2J8 (514) 382-9858
 * Saskatchewan
 * Regina OS/2 User Group c/o P. Takis Skagos 3438 Keohan Cr. Regina, SK S4V 1J5
 * Germany
 * OS/2 User Group Deutschland c/o Heide Davis, PC & PR GmbH Kölner Straße 51 Mechernich-Kommern, D-5353
 * Olaf Scherdin OS/2 User Group of Flensburg Swinemünder Str. 3 24944 Flensburg +49-461-32880
 * Honduras
 * Usuarios de OS/2 c/o Tulio Enrique Tercero GBM de Honduras, APDO 310 Tegucigalpa
 * Holland
 * Holland User Group OS/2 (HUGO) c/o Paul Van Keep Lange Kerkdam 113 Wassenaar, BT 2242
 * New Zealand
 * Christchurch OS/2 User Group P.O. Box 3712 Christchurch, 8001
 * New Zealand PC Assoc. Inc., OS/2 SIG c/o Graeme Roberts P.O. Box 14025 Wellington, 6030
 * Wellington OS/2 Users Group c/o Andrew McMillan 15 Airlie Rd. Karehana Bay, Plimmerton 6251
 * Russia
 * Constantin E. Protopopov Russia OS/2 User Group c/o International Computer Club Room 53,54 proezd Serova 4 Centre Moscow, 101813 (095)482-0837
 * South Africa
 * Cape Town OS/2 User Group P.O. Box 4034 c/o Glenn Fermoyle Cape Town, 8000
 * Ukraine
 * Kharkov OS/2 User Group 47 Lenin Ave. Institute for Low Temperature Physics and Engineering Kharkov, 310164
 * United Kingdom
 * Jan Bevans International OS/2 User Group c/o Mike Gove Barton House Barton Lane Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 2EE +44-(01285) 644522
 * U.S.A.
 * Alabama
 * Michael Franklin Escambia County Computer User Group, OS/2 SIG 717 Douglas Ave. Brewton, AL 36426 (205) 867-3327
 * B.J. Jacobs Mobile Area OS/2 User Group 4720 Morrison Drive Mobile, AL 36608 (205) 342-8945
 * Alaska
 * Jacquelyn M. Briskey Alaska Computer Society, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 240945 Anchorage, AK 99524 (907) 562-0105
 * Arizona
 * Esther and Bill Schindler Phoenix OS/2 Society 5515 North 7th St. Suite 5-133 Phoenix, AZ 85014 (602) 585-5832
 * Sierra Vista IBM PC UG, OS/2 SIG c/o Kevin McCrory 4931 Loma Loop Sierra Vista, AZ 85635
 * Les Stein Tucson Computer Society, OS/2 SIG 5702 East 8th St. Tucson, AZ 85711-3214 (602) 790-7746
 * Keith Wood OS/2 User Group for Northern Arizona 1448 E. Maricopa Cottonwood, AZ 86326 (602) 634-2404
 * California
 * Fred Zimble Greater South Bay PCUG, OS/2 SIG 2800 Plaza Del Amo, #99 Torrance, CA 90503 (213) 621-5181
 * Alan DuBoff Los Angeles OS/2 Technical Architect Group 6507 Whitaker Ave. Van Nuys, CA 91406 (818) 989-4423
 * Steven Christ Long Beach IBM Users Group, OS/2 SIG 3618 Maine Ave. Long Beach, CA 90806 (310) 490-0930
 * Jamie Jemison Hughes Aircraft OS/2 User's Group Hughes Aircraft Co. Bldg. C05, Room 2070 1600 Forbes Way Long Beach, CA 90810 (310) 816-6185
 * Scot Gould Inland Empire OS/2 Users Group Keck Science Center 925 North Mills Ave. Claremont, CA 91711-5916 (909) 621-8555 ext. 3197
 * Craig Swanson San Diego OS/2 User Group 11080 Camino Propico San Diego, CA 92126 (619) 987-5955
 * Rollin White North Orange County Computer Club, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 7283 Huntington Beach, CA 92615-7283 (714) 968-3143
 * Mike Lyons Orange County IBM PCUG, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 1779 Brea, CA 92622-1779 (714) 990-0580
 * Bert Langer Southern California OS/2 User Group 982 N. Batavia St. Unit B-11 Orange, CA 92667 (714) 532-2298
 * Len Zakas Channel Islands PC UG, OS/2 Corner P.O. Box 1213 Camarillo, CA 93011 (805) 388-8452
 * Tony Ermie Tule Fog Computer Club, OS/2 SIG 2231 Memory Visalia, CA 93277 (209) 733-4875
 * Tony Ricciotti High Desert OS/2 Users Group 8 Cypress Ave. Edwards, CA 93523 (805) 258-4312
 * Sandeleh Francis Fresno PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG #395 Fresno, CA 93726-6137 (209) 229-0473
 * Steven Decato Naval Postgraduate School, OS/2 SIG Box 1259 Monterey, CA 93943 (408) 899-9625
 * Sandy Rockowitz Bay Area OS/2 User Group c/o Guy Scharf Software Architects, Inc. 2163 Jardin Dr. Mountain View, CA 94040-2253 (415) 755-3124
 * San Francisco OS/2 Users Group c/o Bob Barber, AOSI 250 World Trade San Francisco, CA 94111
 * Hank Stephenson San Francisco PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG 465 Laidley San Francisco, CA 94118 (415) 586-0700
 * Jeremy Stadlberger Teenage OS/2 Users Group 3817 22nd St. San Francisco, CA 94114 (415) 826-9403
 * Gerald Brown OS/2 User Group World Savings and Loan 794 Davis St. San Leandro, CA 94577 (415) 297-7881
 * Vallejo OS/2 User's Group c/o Dennis Dorsey 157 Mitchell Ct. Vallejo, CA 94590
 * Jerry Silverstein San Jose IBM Club PC Club, OS/2 SIG L63/026-210G IBM SSD-SP San Jose, CA 95193
 * Ann Tecklenburg Stockton OS/2 User Group 7509 East Kettleman Lane Lodi, CA 95240 (209) 333-0312
 * Loyd Reedy Ripon PC User Group, OS/2 SIG 1146 7th St. Ripon, CA 95366-2569 (209) 599-6486
 * Gary Kawaye California OS/2 Users Group c/o State of California Teale Data Center 2005 Evergreen St. Sacramento, CA 95815 (916) 263-1884
 * Charlie Kotan Sacramento PC User Group, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 460 Cedar Ridge, CA 95924 (916) 641-4007
 * Colorado
 * Robert Saenz Rocky Mountain OS/2 User Group ISSC 5600 North 63rd St. Boulder, CO 80314 (303) 924-2881
 * Jeff Shapiro Colorado Springs PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG c/o John Pearson P.O. Box 1028 Colorado Springs, CO 80901 (719) 473-6569
 * Robert Wagner Old Colorado I/S OS/2 Users Group 2423 Hagerman St. Colorado Springs, CO 80904-3228 (719) 471-8306
 * Connecticut
 * David Pinard New England OS/2 User Group c/o Ron Beauchemin ABB C-E Services, Inc. 200 Great Pond Drive Windsor, CT 06095 (203) 954-1872
 * Florida
 * PC User's Group of Jacksonville, OS/2 SIG c/o Brad Davis Barnett Technologies MC 076-005 4800 Spring Park Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32207
 * Peter Davies NW Florida OS/2 User Group 5736 Bronco Pl. Milton, FL 32570-4003 (904) 626-4118
 * Brian Walton Alachua County Computer Users Group, OS/2 SIG 3100 SW 35th Place Apt. 6-B Gainesville, FL 32608 (904) 371-8009
 * Homer Whittaker Central Florida Computer Society, OS/2 SIG 1501 Magnolia Ave. Winter Park, FL 32789 (407) 628-8877
 * Carlos M. Echinique Miami OS/2 Users Group 8780 SW 82nd St. Miami, FL 33173-4126 (305) 596-8271
 * Steve Matus Ft. Lauderdale Computer UG, SIG-32 8461 NW 31st Place Sunrise, FL 33351-8904 (305) 748-7237
 * Doug Azzarito South Florida OS/2 User's Group 2399 NW 30th Road Boca Raton, FL 33431-6212 (407) 982-3700
 * Tim Bryce Tampa Bay OS/2 Users Group M. Bryce & Assoc., Inc. 777 Alderman Rd. Palm Harbor, FL 34683 (813) 786-4567
 * Harvey Bruneau Tampa PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG 9402 Hidden Ridge Place Tampa, FL 33637 (813) 985-3338
 * Pinellas IBM PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG c/o Michael C. Grogg 1510 Barry St., #J-2 Clearwater, FL 34616-4410
 * Georgia
 * Robert L. Cannon Atlanta PC User Group, OS/2 SIG c/o Robert Cannon 3070 Presidential Drive Suite 220 Atlanta, GA 30340 (404) 455-4177
 * John D. Hopkins University of Georgia OS/2 Users Group Gilbert Health Center Univ. of Georgia Athens, GA 30602-1755 (706) 542-8640
 * Illinois
 * James Schmidt North Suburban Chicago OS/2 User Group William M. Mercer, Inc. 1417 Lake Cook Road Deerfield, IL 60615 (708) 317-7405
 * Dwight Cannon West Suburban Chicago OS/2 User Group Microfocus 1842 Centre Point Dr. Suite 128 Naperville, IL 60593 (708) 955-0082
 * Timothy F. Sipples Downtown Chicago OS/2 Users' Group One IBM Plaza (07/SS4) Chicago, IL 60611 (312) 245-4003
 * Melissa Woo Champaign-Urbana OS/2 User's Group Environmental Health & Safety Bldg. 101 S. Gregory St., MC-225 Urbana, IL 61801 (217) 244-6655
 * Britt Hagen Central Illinois OS/2 Users Group Illinois Dept. of Insurance c/o Kurt Wellbaum 320 W. Washington Springfield, IL 62767 (217) 524-0455
 * Indiana
 * Indianapolis Computer Society, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 2532 Indianapolis, IN 46206
 * Fort Wayne OS/2 Users Group c/o Stephen Gutknecht 3724 Shannon Drive Fort Wayne, IN 46835
 * Purdue OS/2 User's Group c/o Philip Polstra P.O. Box 2 Otterbein, IN 47970-0002
 * Iowa
 * Bob Wruck Des Moines OS/2 User Group 12824 NW 127th Ct. Des Moines, IA 50325 (515) 276-3606
 * Tom Peterson OS/2 SIG University of Northern Iowa Gilchrist 255 Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0007 (319) 273-6460
 * Kentucky
 * Alan McCutchen Kentucky-Indiana PCUG, OS/2 SIG 1108 South Brook St. Louisville, KY 40203-2716 (502) 587-8285
 * Lousiana
 * David Arbour Baton Rouge OS/2 User Group 6333 Feather Nest Lane Baton Rouge, LA 70816-2733 (504) 753-9637
 * Maryland
 * Ron Wright Capital PC User Group, OS/2 SIG 51 Monroe St., Plaza East Two Rockville, MD 20850 (301) 762-6755
 * Paul Demmitt Central Maryland Micro UG, OS/2 SIG 9337 Angelina Circle Columbia, MD 21045-5110 (410) 381-8939
 * Eric Erickson Hagerstown Computer Club, OS/2 SIG 12 West Magnolia Ave. Hagerstown, MD 21742-3347 (301) 733-7312
 * Massachusetts
 * Marcia Gulesian Boston Computer Society, OS/2 SIG 1073 Main St. Concord, MA 01742 (508) 369-3918
 * Kent Lundberg M.I.T. OS/2 Technical Users' Group M.I.T. Room 38-591 77 Massachusetts Ave. Cambridge, MA 02139 (617) 253-1938
 * Michigan
 * Edward Trumbo Greater Detroit OS/2 User Group 16251 Ryland Redford Twp., MI 48240-2512 (313) 876-8802
 * Users' PC Organization, OS/2 SIG c/o Skip Osterhus 3631 E. Meadow Ct. Okemos, MI 48864 (517) 349-6024
 * Mary DeVries West Michigan OS/2 User Group c/o Spartan Field Engineering 537 76th St. SW Grand Rapids, MI 49509 (616) 678-8562
 * Nancy Smith Delta DOS User's Group, OS/2 SIG 1023 9th Ave. South Escanaba, MI 49829-3101 (906) 786-9240
 * Minnesota
 * Ben Bornstein Hutchinson Computer Users Group, OS/2 SIG 735 N. Main St. Hutchinson, MN 55350 (612) 587-6219
 * Marcus Krumpholz Minnesota OS/2 Users Group 7300 12th Ave. South Minneapolis, MN 55423 (612) 866-1618
 * John Bald Twin Cities PC User Group, OS/2 SIG 5701 Normandale Rd. Edina, MN 55424 (612) 929-5850
 * Mississippi
 * Mike Erickson Jackson County PC User's Group, OS/2 SIG 1209 Canal St. Pascagoula, MS 39567 (601) 935-2970
 * Missouri
 * Ron Gines Gateway/2 OS/2, Inc. 3838 Humphrey St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 771-6176
 * Connie Nusser Heartland Windows User Group, OS/2 SIG c/o IBM Corp. 2345 Grand Ave. 4 Satellite Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 556-6637
 * Phillip Wilson Mid-Missouri OS/2 User Group P.O. Box 30645 Columbia, MO 65205-0645 (800) 385-7074 ext. 2884
 * Nebraska
 * Finis Cook Omaha OS/2 Users Group IBM Corp. 450 Regency Pkwy. Omaha, NE 68114 (402) 493-9101
 * Dottie Smith Lincoln OS/2 Users Group State of Nebraska, Central Data Proc. Nebraska State Office Bldg., Lower Level Lincoln, NE 68509 (402) 471-4857
 * Nevada
 * Las Vegas OS/2 User's Group c/o Dr. NHA Karunaratne P.O. Box 94316 Las Vegas, NV 89193-4316
 * Rob Winchell Las Vegas PC User Group, OS/2 SIG 1350 East Flamingo Rd., #188 Las Vegas, NV 89119 (702) 736-3788
 * New Hampshire
 * Frank Richards New Hampshire OS/2 User Group P.O. Box 71 Marlow, NH 03456 (603) 446-7307
 * New Jersey
 * Bruce Leiwant Northern New Jersey OS/2 User's Group 280 West Mount Pleassant Ave. Livingston, NJ 07039-2729 (201) 762-6086
 * OS/2 User's Group of Monmouth County c/o Keith Brodhead, Jr. 71 Stockton Ave. #4 Ocean Grove, NJ 07756
 * Nick Cvetkovic Assoc. of PC Professionals, OS/2 SIG 808 Richard Road Cherry Hill, NJ 08034 (609) 779-0202
 * Charles Hujdu Philadelphia HUB PC User Group, OS/2 SIG 16 West Judith Drive Blue Anchor, NJ 08037 (609) 882-4422
 * Peter Cohen Central Jersey PCUG, OS/2 SIG 1112 Ruby Drive Toms River, NJ 08753 (908) 905-1005 ext. 279
 * New York
 * Bill Zack New York OS/2 Users Group (NYPC) c/o William H. Zack & Assoc. 10 Robert Ct. Fairfield, CT 06430 (203) 255-2979
 * Todd Armstrong OS/2 Jam Session for Finance & Securities IBM Corp. 33 Maiden Lane, 12th Floor New York, NY 10038 (212) 493-2998
 * Don Pearson Danbury Area Computer Society, OS/2 SIG Distributed Data Proc. Corp. Crichton Castle de Lancey Road North Salem, NY 10560-9763 (914) 669-9622
 * Craig Smith Westchester OS/2 Users Group 42 Barker Ave., Suite 4G White Plains, NY 10601 (800) 995-0400
 * H. Stanley Smith Rockland PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG 9 Chestnut Grove Ct. New City, NY 10956-2713 (914) 634-6618
 * Phil Mandato Long Island OS/2 User's Group IBM Corp. 2 Jericho Plaza Jericho, NY 11753 (516) 349-3920
 * Charles Suhr Capital District OS/2 User Group 158 Brookline Road Ballston Spa, NY 12020 (518) 885-5786
 * Tony Lanzafame Capital District Computer Enthusiasts, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 1910 Schenectady, NY 12301 (518) 436-1381
 * Stewart Davis Central NY PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG 4760 Broad Road Syracuse, NY 13215 (315) 492-3745
 * Raymond Kenniston Mohawk Valley PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG 185 Otsego St. Ilion, NY 13357 (315) 894-2396
 * Frog Computer Society, OS/2 SIG c/o Nick Francesco 321 Executive Office Bldg. Rochester, NY 14614-1701
 * Rochester OS/2 User's Club c/o Jerry Seward 5 Spicewood Lane Rochester, NY 14624-3117
 * North Carolina
 * Rich Cottle Triangle OS/2 User Group P.O. Box 98461 Raleigh, NC 27624-8461 (919) 676-4190
 * Bill Calvin Charlotte OS/2 User Group G-A Technologies P.O. Box 31474 Charlotte, NC 28231 (704) 334-3282
 * Ohio
 * David Jackson Columbus Computer Society, OS/2 SIG 140 East Town Street Columbus, OH 43215-5195 (614) 225-3555
 * Rod Hacker Nationwide OS/2 User Group 3 Nationwide Plaza Mailstop 3-09-02 Columbus, OH 43215 (614) 249-8054
 * Andrew J. Nicola Far West OS/2 Professionals 4832 Clague Road North Olmsted, OH 44070-3760 (216) 734-0287
 * Charlie Sweet Greater Cleveland PC UG, OS/2 SIG IMax Associates 981 Keynote Circle, Suite 2 Cleveland, OH 44131 (216) 351-2120
 * Garey Smiley NE Ohio OS/2 Users Group P.O. Box 1888 Akron, OH 44314 (216) 848-1312
 * John Kozacik Cincinnati PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG 3723 Petockey Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45227 (513) 271-4109
 * Kevin Royalty Team OS/2 Cincinnati Users Group 11460 Mill Road Cincinnati, OH 45240 (513) 745-8490 ext. 8547
 * Anthony Cogan Dayton Microcomputer Assoc., OS/2 SIG 1324 Holly Ave. Dayton, OH 45410 (513) 254-3811
 * Oklahoma
 * Oklahoma City PC UG, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 12027 Oklahoma City, OK 73157-2027
 * Janice L. Briggs Tulsa Computer Prof. User's Assoc., OS/2 SIG IBM Corp. 2 Warren Place 6120 South Yale Tulsa, OK 74136 (918) 493-4755
 * Don Singleton Tulsa Computer Society, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 690180 Tulsa, OK 74169 (918) 622-3417
 * Oregon
 * Bob Seeder Portland PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG Attn: Resource Manager 921 SW Morrison, Suite 545 Portland, OR 97205 (503) 292-9639
 * TEAMOS2.PDX c/o Albert Gaylord 5425 SW Seymour St. Portland, OR 97221
 * Pennsylvania
 * Linda Watson Pittsburgh OS/2 User Group IBM Corp. 4 Allegheny Center, 2nd Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15212 (412) 237-7972
 * Ray Hric Computer Users of Erie, OS/2 SIG c/o Tom Kuklinski P.O. Box 1975 Erie, PA 16507-0975 (814) 866-5396
 * Henri McVey Lancaster Microcomputer Users Group, OS/2 SIG 714 N. Marshall St. Lancaster, PA 17602-2162 (717) 396-9406
 * Pennsylvania Computer Society, OS/2 SIG c/o Bill Wolff Wolff Data Systems 836 Redgate Road Dresher, PA 19025
 * Mike Antonucci Delaware Valley OS/2 User Group c/o Tim Howey 30th Street Station Philadelphia, PA 19105 (215) 388-8615
 * Larry Lavins Philadelphia Area Computer Society, OS/2 SIG c/o LaSalle University 1900 West Olney Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19141 (215) 878-9608
 * Exton PC Council, OE SIG c/o Allan Owen 310 N. High Street West Chester, PA 19380
 * South Carolina
 * Palmetto PC Club, OS/2 User Group c/o Paul S. Beverly P.O. Box 10, 3C2 Columbia, SC 29202
 * Upstate IBM PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG c/o Philip Yanov P.O. Box 5521 Greenville, SC 29606
 * Charles Izard Hilton Head Island Computer Club, OS/2 SIG c/o Harry Skevington 16 Forest Drive Hilton Head Island, SC 29928 (803) 689-9771
 * Tennessee
 * Music City PC User Group, OS/2 SIG c/o Alan Ashendorf 488 Saddle Drive Nashville, TN 37221
 * Tad A. Duet Nashville Area OS/2 Users Group c/o DRT Systems International 402 BNA Dr. Suite 403 Nashville, TN 37217 (615) 731-5649
 * Steve Harris Chattanooga OS/2 Users Group TVA MP 3B-C 1101 Market St. Chattanooga, TN 37402 (615) 751-7753
 * Arnold Sprague East Tennessee PC UG, OS/2 SIG 808 Fairfield Dr. Knoxville, TN 37919-4109 (615) 584-8482
 * Memphis PC Users Group, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 241756 Memphis, TN 38124-1756
 * Texas
 * North Texas PC UG, OS/2 Developers SIG P.O. Box 780066 Dallas, TX 75378-0066
 * North Texas PC UG, OS/2 End Users SIG P.O. Box 780066 Dallas, TX 75378-0066
 * Toby Pennycuff Dallas/Ft. Worth OS/2 User's Group 1211 Wilshire Blvd. Arlington, TX 76012-4623 (817) 963-9566
 * Daryle Swink Houston Area League of PC Users, OS/2 SIG 10700 Fuqua #303 Houston, TX 77089 (713) 922-1614
 * Ira Wilsker Golden Triangle PC Club, OS/2 SIG 5770 Clint Lane Beaumont, TX 77713-9531 (409) 880-8193
 * Neal Krawetz Texas A&M OS/2 Users Group Dept. of Computer Science Texas A&M University College Station, TX 77843 (409) 822-3650
 * Tim Hoke Alamo PC Organization, OS/2 SIG 14118 Kings Meadow San Antonio, TX 78231 (210) 493-3845
 * Howard Hyten OS/2 Users Group 1200 Barton Hill Dr., #222 Austin, TX 78704 (512) 471-4291
 * Andrew J. Gnoza III Southwest International PC Club, OS/2 SIG 633 Agua Caliente El Paso, TX 79912-2226 (915) 833-0539
 * Utah
 * Bob Angell Utah Computer Society, OS/2 SIG AIMS 1238 Fenway Ave. Salt Lake City, UT 84102-3212 (801) 583-8544
 * Neil Wagstaff Utah Valley PC User Group, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 233 Provo, UT 84603 (801) 377-2100
 * Vermont
 * Bruce Alvarez Burlington OS/2 User Group 52 Central Ave. South Burlington, VT 05403 (802) 862-7451
 * Virginia
 * Frank McKenney Richmond PC User's Group, OS/2 SIG McKenney Assoc. 3464 Northview Place Richmond, VA 23225 (804) 320-4887
 * Steven Grim Mid-Atlantic OS/2 User Group 1478 Petite Ct. Virginia Beach, VA 23451-6013 (804) 422-6692
 * Carol Deyerle Government and PC Users Group of Roanoke, OS/2 SIG IBM Corp. 111 Franklin Plaza Roanoke, VA 24011 (703) 981-9411
 * Washington
 * Ward Kaatz Pacific Northwest OS/2 User Group 748 North 79th St. Seattle, WA 98103 (206) 625-1755 ext. 5802
 * West Virginia
 * PC HUG, OS/2 SIG 517 Ninth St. Suite 904 Huntington, WV 25701
 * Wisconsin
 * John (Rip) Edmundson Milwaukee Area IBM PCUG, OS/2 SIG 5870 Dunvegan Dr. New Berlin, WI 53146-4808 (414) 679-9075
 * Yi-sen An IBM Wisconsin OS/2 Users Group IBM Corp. 411 E. Wisconsin Ave. Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 223-6147
 * Tom Ender Madison PC User's Group, OS/2 SIG P.O. Box 2598 Madison, WI 53701-2598 (608) 873-9117
 * Joe Mangal Central Wisconsin Computer Society, OS/2 SIG 3440 Evergreen Dr. #4 Plover, WI 54467 (715) 344-3137
 * Tim Klaver Fox Valley Tech. College PC UG, OS/2 SIG 1825 N. Bluemound Dr. Appleton, WI 54913 (414) 730-4700 ext. 2075

(4.9) Books and Magazines
What OS/2 Warp books and magazines are available?

OS/2 Warp has its own magazines: OS/2 Developer Magazine (phone 800-WANT-OS2 or 708-647-5960, FAX 708-647-0537), Inside OS/2 (phone 502-491-1900), OS/2 Professional (phone 301-770-7302), and OS/2 Magazine (Miller-Freeman; phone 800-765-1291 or 415-905-2200, or FAX 415-905-2499).

Many OS/2 Warp books can be ordered by calling the IBM OS/2 Warp Hotline at 800-342-6672. Or you may obtain OS/2 Warp books through most computer book sellers. The most popular, general user guides to OS/2 Warp include OS/2 Warp Unleashed (by Moskowitz and Kerr), Inside OS/2 Warp (published by Que), and Your OS/2 Warp Consultant (by Herb Tyson). Other books (both new and updates to existing OS/2 titles) are also available.

Several publishers specialize in OS/2 Warp. For example, Van Nostrand-Reinhold publishes perhaps the largest selection of books (particularly on programming topics) relating to OS/2 Warp. If you cannot find a good selection of OS/2 Warp books at your favorite computer book vendor, ask your dealer to order the titles that interest you or contact one of the (3.15) Dealers Specializing in OS/2 Warp.

IBM publishes technical guides on various OS/2 Warp topics called "redbooks." To order these and other IBM publications phone your local IBM office and ask for the Librarian or phone 800-765-4IBM. Many IBM publications are available in both printed and CD-ROM formats. Some IBM publications are also available by calling IBM Technical Books at 800-IBM-PCTB.

(4.10) Problem Report Form
How do I report an OS/2 Warp problem to IBM?

If you would like to send an OS/2 Warp bug report to IBM, you may phone IBM at 800-992-4777 (in the U.S.) or you may fill in the OS/2 Warp Problem Report Form and mail it to IBM via CompuServe or the Internet.

The Problem Report Form helps IBM solve your problem more quickly, especially if you include all the relevant details. IBM then has to ask fewer questions in order to determine the problem.

To use the Problem Report Form, follow these steps:
 * 1) If you are reading the INF version of this List, press CTRL-F. This panel will then be saved to a file named TEXT.TMP.
 * 2) Using a text editor (like the OS/2 Warp System Editor), open either TEXT.TMP or the plain text version of this List.
 * 3) Delete all the extra lines in the file so that only the OS/2 Warp Problem Report Form remains.
 * 4) Fill in all the requested information using your text editor.
 * 5) Save the Form to disk (as file name OS2PROB.TXT for example).
 * 6) Upload the file to CompuServe Mail or the Internet, and send the Form to IBM. (The exact procedure will depend on the service and the software you use.)

You may use the Problem Report Form as many times as you need to, but please include only one problem per copy.

-- Submit an OS/2 Warp Problem Report  --

This support is eligible for U.S. customers only.

Customers should use this form to report a suspected OS/2 Warp defect to IBM support. IBM employees should refer to the OS2DFECT FORUM in IBMPC for instructions on how to report an OS/2 Warp defect.

If you have how-to or other questions about OS/2 Warp, please refer to these sources:
 * The OS/2 Warp on-line documentation and README file.
 * If you have a CompuServe ID, you may submit an item to the appropriate section within the forums under IBMOS2 (GO IBMOS2).
 * Many bulletin board systems contain user forums where OS/2 Warp users share information and ideas on OS/2 Warp.

Please provide as much information as possible on your problem. Feel free to add additional space, or remove sections of the form that are not relevant to your problem. CONTACT PERSON: __________________________________

PHONE NUMBER:  (___) ___-____ x____     Phone number where you can be FAX NUMBER:     (___) ___-____ x____     contacted between 8-5, M-F. Electronic Mail: _________________________________

Note: Support will normally be handled electronically through CompuServe mail. IBM may contact you via telephone if it appears it will expedite resolution to the problem.

Would you rather be contacted by phone? Y _ N _

ONE LINE DESCRIPTION OF THE OS/2 WARP PROBLEM: _________________________________________________________________

DETAILED PROBLEM DESCRIPTION - If possible, provide step-by-step recreation scenario. Also, please include any fixes or workarounds you may have already tried. __________________________________________________________________

Enter any error messages that occur: _____________________________

Select the appropriate answers by placing an "X" in the space indicated. Can you recreate the problem? Y _  N _ Has the problem occurred on more than one system? Y _  N _   Unknown _

OS/2 WARP OPERATING SYSTEM SOFTWARE CONFIGURATION: OS/2 Warp Version 3 ......: _   CSD Level: _____ OS/2 Warp V3 with Win-OS/2: _   CSD Level: _____ OS/2 for Windows .........: _   CSD Level: _____ OS/2 Version 2.1x ........: _   CSD Level: _____

NOTE - CSD = Corrective Service Diskette. Use the SYSLEVEL command to determine, if unknown.

HARDWARE CONFIGURATION (provide as much as possible): Brand and model of PC: ___________________________________ Microprocessor:  Intel _  Other (specify) _______________ Type:    286 _  386SX _  386 _  486SX _   486 _   Pentium _ Speed: __ MHz Total RAM ....:  __ MB Disk drive ...: ____ MB File System:   FAT _     HPFS _     Both _ Manufacturer: ___________________ Model # _______ Type: IDE _ SCSI _  MFM _  RLL _  ESDI _  Unknown _ Manufacturer and model # of disk controller: ______________________ Manufacturer, revision #, and date of System BIOS: ________________ Manufacturer and model # of video adapter: ________________________ Manufacturer and model # of display: ______________________________ Memory installed on video adapter: _____ EGA _ VGA _ SVGA _ 8514 _ XGA _ Diskette Drive A: 3 1/2" _  5 1/4" _ Diskette Drive B: 3 1/2" _  5 1/4" _ List other adapters installed:  _____________________ _____________________                                _____________________

TRAP INFORMATION - If a TRAP occurs and results in the 16 bit trap display similar to the following, enter any of the register values that you recorded:

SESSION TITLE: __________________________________________________ TRAP____ AX=____  BX=____   CX=____   DX=____   BP=____   SI=____   DI=____ DS=____  ES=____   FLG=____  CS=____   IP=____   SS=____   SP=____ MSW=____ CSLIM=____  SSLIM=___   DSLIM=___    ESLIM=____   CSACC=__ SSACC=__ DSACC=__    ESACC=__   ERRCD=____   ERLIM=____  ERACC=__ ________________________________________________________________

If a TRAP occurs and results in the 32 bit trap display similar to the following, enter any of the register values that you recorded:

TRAP ____ ERRCD=____  ERACC=____    ERLIM=________   EAX=________  EBX=________ ECX=________ EDX=________   ESI=________  EDI=________   EBP=________ FLG=________  CS:EIP=____:________  CSACC=____   CSLIM=________ SS:ESP=____:________ SSACC=____   SSLIM=________   DS=____  DSACC=____ DSLIM=________ CR0=________   ES=____  ESACC=____  ESLIM=________ CR2=________ FS=____ FSACC=____  FSLIM=________   GS=____  GSACC=____ GSLIM=________

THE SYSTEM DETECTED AN INTERNAL PROCESSING ERROR AT LOCATION ##____:________ - ____:____. _____, ____  ________ INTERNAL REVISION _.___,  __/__/__

PRINTER - If this is a printer problem, please provide the following: Printer Vendor: __________________  Model ....: ________________ Driver Name ..: __________________  Port Used : ________________ Printer is attached to: Local _   LAN Server _    Host _

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER - If this is a problem with Communications Manager, please provide answers in this section:

Communications Manager/2 ...Version: ___ CSD Level: _______ OS/2 Extended Services 1.0.........: ___ CSD Level: _______ Describe your Communications Manager configuration (DFT, T-R, etc): ________________________________________________________________ LOCAL AREA NETWORK - If this is a local area network problem, please enter information about the LAN involved: LAN SERVER:    OS/2 LAN Server Version 1.3  : _   CSD Level: ________ OS/2 LAN Server 2.0 Entry .. : _  CSD Level: ________ OS/2 LAN Server 2.0 Advanced : _  CSD Level: ________ OS/2 LAN Server 3.0x Entry ..: _  CSD Level: ________ OS/2 LAN Server 3.0x Advanced: _  CSD Level: ________ OS/2 LAN Server 4.0 Entry .. : _  CSD Level: ________ OS/2 LAN Server 4.0 Advanced : _  CSD Level: ________

LAN REQUESTER: LAN Server 4 Requester .....: _  CSD Level: ________ LAN Server 3.0x Requester...: _  CSD Level: ________ LAN Server 2.0 Requester....: _  CSD Level: ________ OS/2 EE 1.3 Requester.......: _  CSD Level: ________

DOS LAN REQUESTER: LS 4.0 Requester ...........: _  CSD Level: ________ LS 3.0x Requester ..........: _  CSD Level: ________ LS 2.0 Requester ...........: _  CSD Level: ________ OS/2 EE 1.3 Requester ......: _  CSD Level: ________ DOS Version: ____ DOS Vendor: _________________

Is the failing system a Domain Controller? Y _   N _ Is the failing system an additional server? Y _   N _ DATABASE MANAGER or DB2/2 - If this is an OS/2 DATABASE MANAGER or DB2/2 problem, please enter information about the DataBase Manager problem below. DB2/2 .... Version: ______  CSD Level: __________ Extended Services 1.0 ...... CSD Level: __________

SQL Error Code ....: ________ Secondary Return Code: ________ Error occurs when database is being accessed as: Stand Alone ......: Y _ N _ Requester (Client): Y _ N _ Database Server ..: Y _ N _ Using RDS ........: Y _ N _ Using LAN ........: Y _ N _ If the error is occurring at a requester, can the problem be recreated at the server? .....: Y _ N _ Error occurs in which application? Query Manager.....: _ LI ..............: _ (Command Line Interface) User Application..: _ If a trap has occurred, provide the SQLABEND results: _____________________________________________________ PLEASE REVIEW ALL OF THIS PROBLEM REPORT BEFORE SENDING. When you are ready to send this OS/2 Problem Report, send the form via electronic mail to
 * Base OS/2 problems - Base Support
 * All Other problems - Product Support

(4.11) OS/2 Warp BBSes
What OS/2 Warp BBSes can I dial?

The following BBSes hold large OS/2 Warp libraries: (The monthly Worldwide OS/2 Warp BBS Listing, available from these BBSes, lists others.) The IBM PC Company BBS (modem 919-517-0001) has some shareware/freeware as well, along with CSDs [see (4.6) Corrective Service Diskettes] and the PS Assistant (an invaluable resource for locating almost any sort of information on OS/2 Warp). For information on IBM's OS/2 Warp BBS phone 800-547-1283. IBM Canada maintains several support BBSes:
 * (416) 946-4244
 * (416) 946-4255
 * (514) 938-3022
 * (604) 664-6464
 * (604) 380-5441

(4.12) IBM Telephone Directory
IBM has so many telephone numbers. Which do I use?

Here are some of the telephone numbers at IBM that are of particular importance to OS/2 Warp users. Please consult the PS Assistant [available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] for additional IBM telephone numbers.


 * IBM Developer Connection (800-6-DEVCON). Accepts orders for and provides information on the IBM OS/2 Warp Developer Connection and Device Driver Kit CD-ROM subscriptions.
 * IBM Education and Training (800-IBM-TEAC). Supplies information on classes and training for all IBM products, including OS/2 Warp. Also provides information on professional certification testing for IBM software products such as OS/2 Warp and OS/2 LAN Server.
 * IBM EduQuest Order Center (800-769-8322). Accepts orders for and provides information on IBM's products for K-12 education (students, faculty, and staff are eligible), including "Columbus," "Illuminated Books and Manuscripts," and other multimedia educational software for OS/2.
 * IBM Help Center (800-756-4IBM). The "800 number for all 800 numbers" in the United States. If you're not sure which number to call, start here. The operator will stay on the line until you're satisfied you've reached the right party.
 * IBM Independence Series Center (800-426-4832). Provides information and literature on any of IBM's software products for people with disabilities, including Screen Reader/2 and Screen Magnifier/2.
 * IBM Information Center (800-IBM-3333). IBM's United States "switchboard" -- can be used to reach any IBM employee.
 * IBM Information Center TDD (800-426-3383). For hearing impaired callers using TDD, provides access to other IBM hotlines when you're not sure whom to call.
 * IBM Multimedia Help Center (800-241-1620). Technical support for most of IBM's multimedia software products, including Person to Person for OS/2.
 * IBM OS/2 Warp Hotline (800-3-IBM-OS2). Accepts orders for OS/2 Warp, certain OS/2 Warp software titles, OS/2 Warp video cassettes, t-shirts, mouse pads, computer furniture, and other OS/2 Warp-related items. For United States residents.
 * IBM OS/2 Warp Technical Support (800-992-4777). The product support line for OS/2 Warp in the United States. Look in your OS/2 Warp package for a blue card describing product support services. Some services may require a toll call.
 * IBM PC Technical Books (800-765-4IBM). Accepts orders for most IBM publications from anyone in the United States.
 * IBM Personal Systems Software Canada (800-465-1234). For general inquiries and orders from Canadian residents for any OS/2 Warp-related product.
 * IBM Publications Canada (416-474-7000). Accepts orders for any IBM publication, including the OS/2 Warp Online Book Collection, shipped to any Canadian address.
 * IBM Publications U.S. (800-879-2755 opt. 1). Accepts orders for any IBM publication shipped to any address in the United States.
 * IBM Ultimedia Tools Center (800-887-7771). Provides information and literature on IBM's Ultimedia software products, including Ultimedia Builder/2, the multimedia authoring tool.

(5.0) Using OS/2 Warp
The following questions are addressed in this section:

(5.1) Making OS/2 Warp Resemble Unix
I'm a Unix wizard. How do I make OS/2 Warp resemble Unix?

A great number of GNU and Unix utilities have been ported to OS/2 Warp native mode and are available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources. A uucp package, UUPC/Extended, is available via anonymous ftp from ftp.clarkson.edu, directory /pub/uupc; mail help@kew.com with questions.

In addition, the Hamilton C Shell is available from Hamilton Labs (phone 508-358-5715 or mail 3890321@mcimail.com). The Thompson Toolkit, a Bourne-like shell, and awk are published by Thompson Automation (phone 206-224-1639). MKS (phone 519-884-2251 or mail pat@mks.com) publishes a number of standard Unix utilities for OS/2 Warp. An OS/2 Warp version of lint is available from Gimpel Software (phone 215-584-4261). OS/2 Warp comes with full featured Internet access software called the Internet Connection. For OS/2 Warp-specific X Windows server support, IBM provides an optional package available with its TCP/IP Version 2 for OS/2. (Hummingbird and AESoft also sell X-Window server kits for OS/2 Warp.)

DOS and Windows based utilities and aids still work fine under OS/2 Warp.

(5.2) Making OS/2 Warp Resemble Windows
I prefer Windows. How do I make OS/2 Warp resemble Windows?

Spend some time with the Workplace Shell first. Browse the online Tutorial, Master Help Index, and Information folder. Once you are used to the Workplace Shell, you may find that you will never want to go back.

If you still prefer Windows-like behaviour, follow the instructions in your OS/2 Warp printed manual (or consult the online Command Reference) to use the MAKEINI utility with the WIN_30.RC configuration file.

Note that you can run the Win-OS/2 Program Manager "seamlessly" on your OS/2 Warp desktop, and you can use it to launch DOS, Windows, and even OS/2 Warp applications. Using the Program Manager in this way can make even hard core Windows users more comfortable.

(5.3) Recovering from Crashed Sessions
Sometimes OS/2 Warp will freeze when I run an application. What do I do?

Before rebooting with CTRL-ALT-DEL, try CTRL-ESC. Do not hit additional keys, do not move the mouse. Wait up to a minute. Either the Window List or an error message should pop up. You may close the offending application at that point; allow some time for it to close. (Try ALT-ESC if you have disabled CTRL-ESC in that application's DOS Settings. If you do not get any response, press CTRL-ESC or ALT-ESC repeatedly until the dialog appears.) Note that the Workplace Shell can recycle, independent of running applications, if it crashes.

If the system is badly disabled, sometimes pressing CTRL-ALT-NUMLOCK twice will result in a prompt to create a dump diskette. You may do so (the online Command Reference describes dump diskettes), or at that point you may reboot with CTRL-ALT-DEL.

To prevent applications from automatically restarting see (5.10) Clever Tricks. To restore the desktop to "factory defaults," and for other system recovery options, use ALT-F1 when OS/2 Warp starts (when you see the white rectangle as OS/2 Warp boots).

(5.4) Starting Background Processes
How do I start a background process from the OS/2 Warp command line?

Look up the START and DETACH commands in the online Command Reference.

If you wish to start a DOS session with non-default settings, use a utility such as STARTD. If you wish to start an OS/2 Warp session from a DOS session, try OS2EXEC. Both (and several others) are available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.

(5.5) Adobe Type Manager
How do I add new Adobe Type Manager typefaces?

OS/2 Warp comes with built-in Adobe Type Manager (ATM) for OS/2 Warp and Win-OS/2. A basic set of typefaces (Courier, Helvetica, and Times New Roman) comes with OS/2 Warp and is installed (if selected) for use under both OS/2 Warp's and Win-OS/2's ATM.

Each typeface you install under OS/2 Warp and/or Win-OS/2 should come with at least two separate files with PFB and AFM extensions. To install a typeface for use under Win-OS/2, use the ATM Control Panel. The Win-OS/2 ATM Control Panel will then build a PFM file from the AFM file if a PFM file is not already included. To install a typeface for use with OS/2 Warp-specific applications, select OS/2 System -> System Setup -> Font Palette -> Edit Font -> Add.

PFM files may converted to AFM files using the PFM2AFM utility, available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources. (However, these converted AFM files sometimes produce unusual results.) AFM files for Adobe commercial typefaces are available via Internet anonymous ftp from ftp.mv.us.adobe.com; the PFB files are available for purchase from Adobe. Many public domain typefaces for OS/2 Warp's ATM are available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources. AllType (Atech Software, phone 800-786-FONT), FontMonger (Ares Software, phone 415-578-9090), and Fontographer convert between TrueType and Adobe Type 1 formats.

Typeface files may be shared by OS/2 Warp ATM and Win-OS/2 ATM. To do so, install the typefaces using both the Font Palette and Win-OS/2 ATM Control Panel, specifying the same target path each time (most conveniently \PSFONTS).

Note that in some releases of OS/2 IOPL=YES should appear in CONFIG.SYS for proper operation of ATM. This setting is the default.

(5.6) Performance Tuning
How do I tweak OS/2 Warp for maximum performance?

For advice on tuning OS/2 Warp (including information on running games) please consult the documents located in the Information folder. Also, several tools have been developed to help tune OS/2 Warp for performance, notably:

Here are some basic steps you can take to improve the performance of your OS/2 Warp PC:


 * Use FastLoad so that Windows applications start faster. Start the Win-OS/2 Setup program, located in your System Setup folder. There is a checkbox marked "FastLoad." Check this box to enable the FastLoad feature. When you start OS/2 Warp, a DOS session with Win-OS/2 will be started automatically and preloaded so that Windows applications will start faster. However, enabling FastLoad will increase the amount of time required to start OS/2 Warp.

FastLoad will not provide any benefit if (a) you have enabled the "Separate session" feature for your Windows application(s); (b) your FastLoad session is set for a different mode than your Windows application(s). In other words, if your FastLoad session is set for Enhanced mode, the Windows applications you start from the OS/2 Warp desktop must also be set to Enhanced mode. You can adjust the FastLoad mode setting by using the Win-OS/2 settings button in the Win-OS/2 Setup notebook. The mode setting for a Windows application is controlled from the settings notebook for that application. If the mode settings are not identical, FastLoad can actually hamper performance.
 * Adjust the disk cache size. Generally, OS/2 Warp can make better use of your PC's memory for applications, so you will usually want to keep the size of your disk cache modest. There are at least three types of disk caches available: FAT, HPFS, and CD-ROM. All are controlled by the CONFIG.SYS file. Normally OS/2 Warp will set the disk cache sizes correctly for your PC's amount of memory. However, you may wish to make changes, especially if you have added or removed memory from your PC.

As a rule of thumb, the total size of your disk caches (combined) should be about 10% of your PC's available memory. For example, if you have a system with 12 MB of memory, then you can spare a little over a megabyte (1024K) for disk cache. The cache sizes for the three most popular OS/2 Warp file systems are controlled using the following lines in CONFIG.SYS: DISKCACHE=xxxx[,...] FS=[...]HPFS.IFS /CACHE:yyyy [...] IFS=[...]CDFS.IFS /C:zz [...] (for FAT, HPFS, and CD-ROM, respectively). The "[...]" notation above indicates that additional, optional parameters are available for these lines. Replace "xxxx" or "yyyy" with the size of the cache you would like (in Kilobytes). For example, to set a cache size of 1 MB for the FAT file system: DISKCACHE=1024 Replace "zz" with the size of the CD-ROM cache you wish to set, in 64K segments. For example, to set a cache size of 128K for the CD-ROM file system, use: IFS=[...]CDFS.IFS /C:2 For more information on setting disk cache sizes, please refer to the online Command Reference.


 * Relocate the OS/2 Warp swap file. For maximum performance, the swap file (controlled by the SWAPPATH line in CONFIG.SYS) should be located on the most used drive on the least used hard disk on your PC. Also, preallocating a larger swap file (8, 12, or even 16 MB) can increase performance. See your online Command Reference for details on SWAPPATH.
 * Speed printing by dedicating IRQ 7. With OS/2 Warp, the default printing method is to poll the printer port (much like DOS). This method is compatible with a wide variety of PCs and printers, but sometimes printing speed suffers. For faster results, enable interrupt-driven printing. See (2.3) Printer Support for details.

(5.7) Measuring Performance and Memory Usage
How do I measure OS/2 Warp performance and memory usage?

OS/2 Warp does not treat system resources like DOS. Memory is treated as a virtual resource, used intelligently. For example, OS/2 Warp will retain unused, "dormant" code in memory if that memory is not otherwise required, on the assumption that that code may be used again. Also, all but a small portion of OS/2 Warp (and most applications, no matter how many are running) may be paged to disk should a large amount of physical memory be required. Utilities which display "free" memory, then, are only useful for rough, relative measurements. (Such utilities also often fail for another reason: many only report the largest contiguous block of free physical RAM. And a few will never report more than 16 MB of RAM because they were designed for OS/2 1.x.)

Similarly, utilities which purport to measure system load (e.g. Pulse) should not be relied upon for definitive performance measurement. Subjective assessments are often much more reliable. Pulse (and similar utilities) rely on a measurement of processor time allocated to a thread running at OS/2 Warp's lowest priority. This method is sometimes subject to erroneous results.

That said, more rigorous system performance optimization and monitoring tools include IBM's System Performance Monitor/2, BenchTech (Synetik, phone 303-241-1718), OR/SysMon (International OS/2 User Group, phone +44-285-641175 or FAX +44-285-640181), CPU Monitor (BonAmi), and Performance 3.0 (Clear & Simple, phone 203-658-1204).

Note that OS/2 Warp's swap file is designed to behave with hysteresis. It will not shrink in size as easily as it grows, under the assumption that swap space needed once may be needed again. It should shrink given enough time and continued, less intense system loads.

(5.8) Displaying Background Bitmaps
My background bitmap does not display correctly. What's wrong?

Colour bitmap images used for the Workplace Shell screen or folder backgrounds may not display correctly (may have distorted or missing colours) due to incorrect matching with OS/2 Warp's default palette. Unlike Windows, by default OS/2 Warp does not adjust the palette to accommodate background bitmaps (to keep the rest of the desktop from experiencing colour distortions). Applications, though, can always control the palette selection when they are in the foreground.

If you would like OS/2 Warp's Workplace Shell to change palettes, when possible, to make your background bitmap(s) look better, check the "Workplace shell palette aware" checkbox, located on the first page of the System object (which is located in your OS/2 Warp System Setup folder). Alternatively, you may use the numerous background images which have been specifically prepared for the Workplace Shell [available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] or you may use an image editing/conversion utility which can create a proper, system palette-matched bitmap file. For example, JoeView [available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] may be used to import noninterlaced GIF, Windows BMP, and PCX files and save them as palette-matched OS/2 Warp BMP files.

Note that background bitmap images impose some additional overhead, taking up RAM and disk resources. You should probably use them sparingly. Also, if you have set a Win-OS/2 background bitmap you may experience desktop colour distortions when running Windows programs "seamlessly." Disable the Win-OS/2 background bitmap to remedy the problem.

(5.9) Specific DOS Sessions
How do I boot a real version of DOS from within OS/2 Warp?

Booting a real version of DOS under OS/2 Warp provides certain features that the OS/2 Warp emulated DOS sessions cannot. For example, a specific DOS session can provide access to devices (like CD-ROM drives) and networks for which there are only DOS device drivers. A specific DOS session can also help get DOS applications which generate spurious "divide by zero" errors running again.

You may be able to run only one such session per hardware device (if that device is not under OS/2 Warp's direct control). So, for example, if you have your DOS networking software loaded in one specific DOS session, you may not start another, similar session which also accesses the same network card.

Specific DOS sessions are discussed in the online Command Reference (under VMDISK), the Master Help Index, and the printed OS/2 Warp manual. You should consult those resources first. However, if you are still unsure how to configure your system to run specific DOS sessions, follow these steps:

DEVICE=FSFILTER.SYS DEVICE=C:\OS2\MDOS\HIMEM.SYS DEVICE=C:\OS2\MDOS\EMM386.SYS DEVICE=C:\OS2\MDOS\ANSI.SYS Change the "C:" drive letter if OS/2 Warp is installed on another drive. Add any other lines as required for your application (like CD-ROM or networking), but do not include any XMS, EMS, mouse, or memory management device drivers. Make sure that everything is referenced with a drive letter and path, as above. C:\OS2\MDOS\MOUSE changing "C:" if necessary. Add any additional lines (like PATH, SET PROMPT, and so on) as required by your application. Make sure that \OS2\MDOS is referenced in the PATH.
 * 1. Create a bootable DOS diskette. Insert your DOS system diskette into Drive A and reboot. When you arrive at the "A>" prompt, type FORMAT A: /S and press ENTER. (Note that you may wish to format the diskette for the smallest capacity possible, to save hard disk space later on. For example, a 5.25 inch double density - not high density - diskette may be formatted to just 160K by adding the /1 /N:8 parameters to the FORMAT command.) When prompted, insert a blank diskette into Drive A and press ENTER. When the FORMAT operation is complete, remove the diskette and restart OS/2 Warp.
 * 2. Copy FSFILTER.SYS to the diskette. Double click on OS/2 System -> Command Prompts -> OS/2 Window. Insert the diskette you just formatted into Drive A. Copy the following file to your startable diskette: \OS2\MDOS\FSFILTER.SYS.
 * 3. Set up CONFIG.SYS. Using a text editor (like the OS/2 System Editor) create the file A:\CONFIG.SYS with the following lines at the top:
 * 4. Set up AUTOEXEC.BAT. Likewise, create a file named A:\AUTOEXEC.BAT and make sure that the first line reads:
 * 5. Test your DOS diskette. Once you have configured the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files as you wish, double click on OS/2 System -> Command Prompts -> DOS from Drive A:. A DOS session should start. Test for the functionality you need (like access to your CD-ROM reader or network). If the session is not working properly, press CTRL-ESC and shut down the session, edit CONFIG.SYS and/or AUTOEXEC.BAT as required, and repeat the test.
 * 6. Create the diskette image. When you are satisfied that your specific DOS session diskette functions properly, go back to the OS/2 Window and type VMDISK A: C:\DOS.IMG to create a diskette image file. (If you want the file to be located on another drive or in another directory, change "C:\" accordingly.)
 * 7. Create a program object for your specific DOS session. Drag a program object from your Templates folder to any target folder. When the notebook opens, enter a single asterisk (*) in the Program Name field, then click on the right arrow in the lower right. Select either DOS Window or DOS Full Screen for the session type, as desired. Click on the DOS Settings button, click OK, and scroll down until you find the DOS_STARTUP_DRIVE property. Enter C:\DOS.IMG in the field at the upper right. (If your image file is not located on Drive C in the root directory, make the necessary changes.) Change any other DOS Settings if necessary. Click on the Save button, then click on the General tab. Give your program object a name. Then close up the notebook.

You should now be able to double click on your new program object to start your specific DOS session. If you require access to your diskette drive (Drive A), use the FSACCESS command. See the online Command Reference for details.

When formatting your bootable DOS diskette, you may wish to use additional command line parameters to create a diskette with a reduced capacity. The "smaller" the diskette, the less room the diskette image file created by VMDISK will take on your hard disk. See your DOS manual for details, or use the example given above.

(5.10) Clever Tricks
Are there any clever tricks that apply to OS/2 Warp?

SET RESTARTOBJECTS=STARTUPFOLDERSONLY to your CONFIG.SYS. To manually disable automatic application restart when booting OS/2, hold down the left CTRL, left SHIFT, and F1 keys simultaneously from the time the mouse pointer appears until icons are displayed on the desktop. CALL=C:\OS2\MODE.COM COM2:38400,N,8,1,OCTS=OFF,RTS=ON,BUFFER=ON configures COM2 for high speed RTS handshaking and buffered I/O. [Moreover, the MODE command can be used to determine whether your system has a buffered UART (National Semiconductor 16550A or equivalent), nearly essential for high speed communications. Use the command: MODE COMx (where x is the communications port number) from an OS/2 Warp command line. If you see anything but "BUFFER = N/A" then you have a buffered UART for that port.]
 * To force DIR to display your directories in alphabetical order, with the subdirectories listed first, add the line SET DIRCMD=/O:GN to CONFIG.SYS; and, if you wish the same for your DOS command line sessions, add the same line to AUTOEXEC.BAT. You may also wish to run DOSKEY to enable the command history feature. (Shutdown and reboot for changes to CONFIG.SYS to take effect.)
 * Hold down SHIFT while resizing text windows to make size changes permanent.
 * If you want to configure your printer port(s) for shared access (so that DOS programs like LapLink, for example, can use them directly), go to your printer object, click on it with mouse button two, select Open -> Settings, select the Output tab, then double click on the port you wish to share. Check the appropriate box.
 * While running a DOS graphics program in a window, use the graphics cut and paste feature to clip a picture and paste it into the Icon Editor. You can then quickly and easily create custom icons for your applications.
 * To disable the automatic application restart feature, add the line
 * If you wish to dispense with the Workplace Shell (and its overhead), particularly on low memory systems, change the line SET RUNWORKPLACE... in CONFIG.SYS to read SET RUNWORKPLACE=C:\OS2\CMD.EXE (replacing C, if necessary, with a different drive letter). In fact any program with job control (e.g. Enhanced Editor, HyperAccess/5) can be used as the shell. [Character mode alternatives to the Workplace Shell are now available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.]
 * To implement a small scroll back buffer for your OS/2 Warp command line windows, use the command MODE CO80,102. This procedure may be automated by adding /K MODE CO80,102 in the Optional Parameters section of the OS/2 Window program object settings.
 * If you do not want any command line parameters passed to a program object that you start (for example, if you customize the desktop menu so that it has an additional option which starts a command line prompt) place a lone % in the Optional Parameters section of the program object settings. If you do wish to pass parameters, but you want the extraneous information that the Workplace Shell passes to the object to be ignored, try putting && REM % in the Optional Parameters section after the parameters you wish passed.
 * If you want to move an icon a small distance, "grab" it from the edge nearest the direction you want to move the icon.
 * A clever way to manipulate files that are locked when the Workplace Shell is running (e.g. display drivers) is to add the line CALL=CMD.EXE at the end of CONFIG.SYS. Then Shutdown and reboot. The system will restart with an OS/2 Warp command line prompt. Type EXIT to proceed into the Workplace Shell. Using CALL is also a convenient way to configure OS/2 Warp's serial ports using the MODE command. For example:

You can use either CDDBOC or SHIFTRUN instead of CALL; both utilities are available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.

Another way, which works well with display drivers, is to copy the new DLL(s) to its(their) own directory (say, C:\NEW), then place that directory name first in LIBPATH in CONFIG.SYS. Shutdown and reboot. OS/2 Warp will use that(those) DLL(s) before it attempts to use the one(s) located in \OS2\DLL. To switch back to the old driver, edit CONFIG.SYS and remove C:\NEW from LIBPATH, then Shutdown and reboot. o Insert a blank diskette in Drive A, click on the stubborn object with mouse button two, select Move, select the Path page, enter A:\, press ENTER, then format the diskette; o Use the WPSTools or Black Hole, available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources. (The WPSTools can also recreate desktop objects that have been lost.) SIZE=0 C:\OS2\MDOS\ANSI.SYS loads the ANSI.SYS device driver into high memory in that particular session. SETBOOT /IBD:C Change the last letter (C) if you want to boot from another drive. Disk buffers will be flushed, but Workplace Shell settings will not be saved.
 * To shutdown without a mouse, press CTRL-ESC, select the Desktop, then press the spacebar (to deselect any icons, if necessary), SHIFT-F10, and select Shutdown.
 * Selective Install/Uninstall should be used with caution when changing mouse, multimedia, or display drivers. Verify that proper changes have been made to CONFIG.SYS.
 * If your settings notebooks do not display but are listed in the Window List, click on the name of the settings notebook in the Window List (brought up with CTRL-ESC) with mouse button two and select Cascade.
 * If your \OS2\*.INI files have grown large, use the CopyINI or WPSBackup utilities to shrink them. Both are available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.
 * To restart the Workplace Shell (without saving desktop settings, perhaps after an accidental Sort), use a utility such as psPM [available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] to terminate PMSHELL.
 * To get rid of a WPS object that cannot be deleted, try one of the following:
 * To load a device driver into high memory in a particular DOS session change the DOS_DEVICE setting for the session and add SIZE=0 before the path and filename for the device driver. For example, the following DOS_DEVICE entry:
 * To reboot the machine from the command line, use:
 * The settings notebooks now support drag and drop operations for assigning icons and for changing menus.

To change the icon for an object, first open the settings notebook (click on the object with the secondary mouse button, then select Open -> Settings). Click on the General tab. Then drag any other object to the icon located on the General page of the settings notebook. The object's icon will change to match. If you want to restore it to its former state, click on the Undo button.

To assign actions to menus, open the settings notebook, then click on the Menu tab. Click on any of the items in the Available menus section (or Create another). To add an Action, drag the desired program object to the Actions on menu section. C: (assuming OS/2 Warp is installed on Drive C; change if necessary) MAKEINI OS2.INI LOCK.RC
 * To quickly maximize a window, double click on its title bar. To restore the window to its former size, double click on the title bar again.
 * If you have UNDELETE enabled, but you want to delete an occasional file without the overhead incurred by having UNDELETE capability, use the /F parameter with the DEL command. Using this parameter (in either a DOS or OS/2 Window) will bypass the routine which moves the file(s) to the directory specified by the DELDIR environment variable. The file(s) is(are) deleted faster, but you will not be able to undelete it(them). The /N parameter will prevent prompting ("Are you sure?").
 * OS/2 Warp includes the ability to set a power on password. However, if you have forgotten your password, and you cannot unlock your desktop when you turn your machine on, try the following. Start OS/2 Warp from a diskette boot [see (4.4) Starting OS/2 Warp from Diskette] to get a command line prompt. At the prompt, enter the following commands:


 * If you are using a 1024x768 display driver (such as 8514/A), but you do not want the icons scaled up in size from 32x32 to 40x40, patch the display driver file (e.g. \OS2\DLL\8514_32.DLL) using DEBUG or a similar utility. Search for the hexadecimal byte sequence 28 00 28 00 20 00 20 00 and replace the two 28 values with 20. Reboot for the change to take effect, and be sure to keep a backup copy of the original file.
 * To hide your entire desktop, single click on any icon on the desktop, press CTRL-ESC, then press CTRL-SHIFT-ESC. To return the desktop to normal, press CTRL-ESC then double click on Desktop.
 * If you would like to have a Presentation Manager application start up minimized, first set up a program object for it by dragging a Program template from the Templates folder. Then, on the first page of the notebook, enter the full path and filename of the PM program, but deliberately misspell it. Click on the arrow in the lower right to turn the page, then check the Start minimized checkbox. Click on the left arrow to turn the page back, then correct the misspelling. Fill in any other information, as desired, then close up the notebook. The program object is now ready to start your PM application minimized.
 * To get approximately 730K free in your DOS sessions, change VIDEO_MODE_RESTRICTION in the session's settings to CGA (unless your application requires more than CGA graphics capabilities).
 * In a full screen, character mode OS/2 Warp session it is normally impossible to copy text from the screen to the Clipboard. To get around the problem, try setting your printer object to hold all print jobs, press the PrintScreen key while the full screen OS/2 Warp session is active, return to the printer object and double click on the print job icon for the PrintScreen, then cut and paste from the editor.

(5.11) REXX
How do I use REXX? What does it do?

REXX is built into every copy of OS/2 Warp (where it is also known as Procedures Language/2). It is a general purpose, interpreted programming language which was first released on IBM mainframes over a decade ago. REXX is extremely easy to learn and use. It is particularly strong at string manipulation, and it has features which are difficult to implement in compiled languages (like the ability to read its own source code or execute a string as a command).

OS/2 Warp applications can use REXX as a common scripting language, which means that users need not learn separate macro or script languages for each application. For example, the OS/2 Warp versions of Lotus 1-2-3 and Borland ObjectVision will interface with REXX. OS/2 Warp's multimedia extensions (MMPM/2) contain a REXX interface, so REXX programs can play, record, and manipulate sound and video files. And REXX can be used to create complex batch files (with interactive prompting), since it is integrated so tightly into OS/2 Warp's command processor. Moreover, a trio of REXX visual builders (programming tools which help create even complex REXX applications quickly and easily using simple, drag and drop manipulation of on screen objects), HockWare's VisPro/REXX, Watcom's VX-REXX, and Gpf REXX, are now available.

For more information on OS/2 Warp's REXX interpreter, see the REXX Information online documentation located in the Information folder. For more information on REXX generally, consult the REXX Frequently Asked Questions List [available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources]. Or consult one of the many books available on REXX under OS/2 Warp, including OS/2 REXX: From Bark to Byte (IBM Publication No. GG24-4199) and REXX Under OS/2 by G.F. Gargiulo (Wiley, ISBN 0471-519-014).

Here are some REXX hints and tips: DIR *.TXT | RXQUEUE as an example. (In other words, pipe the program output to RXQUEUE.) To use this program output in your REXX program, try /* Sample */ WHILE QUEUED > 0 PARSE PULL X SAY X END REXXTRY DO X=1 TO 10;SAY X;END
 * If you wish to place program output in the REXX queue (for processing by a REXX program), try
 * To execute REXX commands interactively from the command line, use the REXXTRY command. For example:

(5.12) ANSI Escape Sequences
What ANSI escape sequences can be used?

ANSI escape sequences provide cursor and screen control in OS/2 Warp character mode sessions. By default ANSI support is turned ON (although it may be turned off with the command ANSI OFF). ANSI support is also available in DOS sessions if the device driver ANSI.SYS is loaded. See the online Command Reference for details.

The following ANSI escape sequences are available: Key ESC Refers to ASCII code 27 (i.e. the Escape key) .... Replace with additional attributes, if desired Erase Functions ESC[2J - Clear screen and home cursor ESC[K - Clear to end of line Set Graphics Rendition ESC[#;#;....;#m Set display attributes where # is            0 for normal display 1 bold on            4 underline (mono only) 5 blink on            7 reverse video on             8 nondisplayed (invisible) 30 black foreground 31 red foreground 32 green foreground 33 yellow foreground 34 blue foreground 35 magenta foreground 36 cyan foreground 37 white foreground 40 black background 41 red background 42 green background 43 yellow background 44 blue background 45 magenta background 46 cyan background 47 white background ESC[=#;7h Put screen in indicated mode where # is            0 for 40x25 black and white 1 40x25 color 2 80x25 black and white 3 80x25 color 4 320x200 color graphics 5 320x200 black and white graphics 6 640x200 black and white graphics 7 to wrap at end of line ESC[=#;7l Resets mode # set with above command Keyboard Reassignments ESC[#;#;....#p The first ASCII code defines what is to be changed; the remaining codes define what it is to be changed to; strings are permitted.
 * 1)    Replace with the appropriate number

Examples: ESC[65;81p - A becomes Q ESC[81;65p - Q becomes A  ESC[0;68;"dir";13p - Assign the F10 key to a DIR command. The 0;68 portion is the extended ASCII code for the F10 key and 13 is the ASCII code for a carriage return. Other function key codes: F1=59, F2=60, F3=61, ... F10=68.

You can use ANSI escape sequences in the PROMPT environment variable to create complex command line prompts. See the online Command Reference (under PROMPT) for details.

For example, if you have a colour monitor, try editing your CONFIG.SYS file so that SET PROMPT=$e[32;40m$e[1m[$P]$e[0m to obtain a more colourful OS/2 Warp command line prompt. (Case is significant in the example given.) You can do the same for your DOS sessions if you edit PROMPT in AUTOEXEC.BAT, assuming you have ANSI.SYS loaded. Note that the $i portion of your PROMPT will enable the help line at the top of the window or screen. It is not included in the example above.

(6.0) Miscellaneous
The following questions are addressed in this section:

(6.1) Promoting OS/2 Warp
What can I do to promote OS/2 Warp?

OS/2 Warp is selling well, but there are steps you can take to assure that hardware devices and software will be available for OS/2 Warp in the future. Customer requests do matter.


 * Politely, firmly, and repeatedly request driver support from printer, video adapter, and other hardware manufacturers.
 * When you receive a mailing for DOS/Windows software with a postpaid envelope, return the order form marked "Please send information on your native OS/2 Warp version."
 * Start a user group at your location. Contact Gene Barlow or Richard Woolsey at IBM (phone 214-402-6456) or mail ibmpcug@vnet.ibm.com for assistance. Think about how you can publicize your user group. For instance, most local newspapers and television stations will print/broadcast meeting announcements for free. Your local cable television company will be happy to broadcast a videotape of your meeting on the public access channel.
 * Correspond with members of the computer trade press. Ask for reviews of OS/2 Warp software, hardware compatibility testing with OS/2 Warp, OS/2 Warp benchmarking, etc. Respond politely but forcefully to press you think unfair; praise good reporting.
 * When you purchase a new system, ask the vendor to install OS/2 Warp, and to offer credit for dropping DOS and Windows. If the vendor refuses, you may wish to take your business elsewhere. Compaq, Everex, AST, Northgate, Toshiba, Vobis, Escom, Osbourne, Patriot, CompuAdd, ALR, Unisys, Dell, Tangent, IBM, Ariel Design, and others all offer systems with OS/2 Warp preloaded.
 * Make sure your company (or yourself) specifies OS/2 Warp compatibility when purchasing new products.
 * Demonstrate OS/2 Warp to friends, relatives, and associates.
 * Ask your computer store to stock OS/2 Warp software titles, have OS/2 Warp demonstration machines, etc.
 * Pass along useful OS/2 Warp shareware and freeware to your local BBS. Be sure to register OS/2 Warp shareware.
 * Write an outstanding piece of shareware or freeware [see (4.5) Technical Support for details on joining DAP]. IBM has been known to recognize such work with rewards. Also, ask authors of DOS/Windows shareware and freeware if they would port to OS/2 Warp, or volunteer.
 * Recommend products that work well under OS/2 Warp; dissuade people from purchasing products that do not.
 * Wear OS/2 Warp pins, shirts, buttons, and other souvenirs. Contact the Lees/Keystone OS/2 Warp Merchandise Center (phone 914-273-6755 or FAX 914-273-9187) or the IBM OS/2 Warp Hotline (phone 800-3-IBM-OS2) to order such items.
 * Join Team OS/2, an international organization of volunteers who are OS/2 Warp enthusiasts and are actively sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm with others. These activities include supporting OS/2 Warp user groups, running OS/2 Warp BBSes and online conferences, demonstrating OS/2 Warp at retail stores and other public places, encouraging and helping others to install OS/2 Warp, answering OS/2 Warp questions, and much more. Membership is not limited to IBM employees. For information on Team OS/2 events you should monitor the TEAMOS2 echomail conference on your local FidoNet BBS. If your local BBS does not carry TEAMOS2, ask your system operator to get it. See (4.11) OS/2 Warp BBSes for the names and numbers of several BBSes which carry TEAMOS2. To join Team OS/2, send your name, address(es), and telephone number to Vicci Conway (netmail 76711.1123@compuserve.com or FAX 407-982-1229). Include information on your activities to date and a one line description of yourself for the public Team OS/2 list.

(6.2) How to Create INF Files
How can I create INF files?

Creating INF files (like the OS/2 Warp Frequently Asked Questions List you are reading now) is remarkably straightforward. All you need is the Information Presentation Facility Compiler (IPFC), part of the IBM Developer's Toolkit for OS/2 Warp Version 3 (available separately or as part of many development environments such as Borland C++ for OS/2, IBM C Set ++/2 and First Step, and CA-Realizer), and a text editor (like the Enhanced Editor included with OS/2 Warp). You can also purchase and/or download tools specifically designed to create OS/2 Warp help/INF files, including IBM Hyperwise, IPFE, and many more.

Online IPFC documentation is included with the Toolkit, but you may also wish to order the printed Information Presentation Facility Guide and Reference, IBM Publication No. S10G-6262. See (4.9) Books and Magazines for ordering instructions. Note that the Toolkit is part of the low cost OS/2 Developer's Connection CD-ROM. See (4.5) Technical Support for details.

If you wish to include illustrations in your INF file you can use any graphics software which can generate OS/2 Warp bitmaps and/or metafiles. (For example, you may create your illustration in IBM Works, paste the illustration into Picture Viewer, then save the illustration as a metafile. Both IBM Works and Picture Viewer are included with OS/2 Warp.) A screen capture utility [like PM Camera or Galleria, available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] can also prove useful.

The May, 1994, issue of OS/2 Magazine contains an article written by Timothy F. Sipples on writing OS/2 help files. You may wish to consult this article for an introduction to the IPFC tag language.

(6.3) What is IBM?
What is IBM?

IBM (International Business Machines Corp.) is the world's largest provider of computing solutions. The company's software operations make IBM the largest software company in the world, with approximately $12 billion in annual revenue. IBM Corp. provides direct employment to approximately 220,000 people worldwide. Its stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: IBM), and it is one of the Dow Jones 30 Industrials.

IBM was founded in the early part of the 20th century when its business primarily consisted of the manufacture and sale of scales, tabulating machinery, and other instruments for government and industry. During World War II, IBM was invaluable to the war effort. Its scientists designed and built the first electronic computer (the Mark I). Beginning in the 1950s, IBM manufactured and sold computer systems to large numbers of other companies, revolutionizing the conduct of business worldwide. The company achieved dominance (and remains preeminent) in many areas in the computer and software industries. IBM is the world's largest holder of patents relating to computing (including software) technologies, for example. The company has engaged in basic research for decades, resulting in such products as the diskette drive. Its scientists have most recently pioneered such areas as superconductors, perpendicular recording techniques, and manipulation of individual atoms to record information.

Today IBM manufactures, markets, and services a wide range of computing products. Hardware products include the ES/9000 family of mainframe computers, AS/400 line of midrange computers, RS/6000 workstations, Thinkpad notebook computers, Aptiva home/small business PCs, and IBM brand PCs for government and business. Software products include operating systems (OS/2 Warp, MVS, VM, OS/400, AIX, PC-DOS, and many others), databases, communications, networking, multimedia, CAD/CAM, programming, and much more. IBM also competes in areas such as banking systems (automatic teller machines, check processing equipment, etc.), point-of-sale systems (cash registers, barcode scanners, etc.), factory floor systems (computer controlled production equipment, robotics, monitoring), and much more. IBM also produces computers and software designed so that persons with disabilities can enjoy life to the fullest. Products such as Screen Reader/2, Screen Magnifier/2, and many more are available through IBM's Special Needs Division.

Through its joint ventures, subsidiaries, and partnerships, IBM is engaged in a wide variety of other lines of business. For example, Sears and IBM are co-founders of Prodigy Services Company. Sears and IBM also jointly own Advantis (part of the IBM Global Network), a company providing network connections (including connections to the Internet) to individuals, companies, and institutions around the world. IBM, Apple, and Hewlett-Packard each hold stakes in Taligent, a software company producing object-oriented technologies for inclusion in several operating systems, including OS/2 Warp. Apple and IBM each own half of Kaleida, the company producing ScriptX, a standard architecture for producing multimedia presentations. IBM's EduQuest designs and markets PCs and software for K-12 education, including "Columbus" and "Illuminated Books and Manuscripts" (multimedia software titles for OS/2).

A complete history of IBM, as well as a full report on IBM's current and future endeavors, would occupy volumes. However, the few paragraphs included here should give you an idea of the scope of IBM's business activities.

Mr. Louis Gerstner is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of IBM Corp., headquartered in Armonk, New York, U.S.A. Mr. John Thompson is head of IBM Software, the worldwide organization responsible for developing and marketing all of IBM's software products. Mr. Leland ("Lee") Reiswig ("The Blue Ninja") is the President of the Personal Software Products Division at IBM, the division which develops OS/2 Warp and many of IBM's software products for PCs. The bulk of the Personal Software Products Division workforce is based in Boca Raton, Florida, and Austin, Texas.

(6.4) IBMRALLY MIDI File
What is the MIDI file IBMRALLY that I get with OS/2 Warp's multimedia?

If you have a sound card which can play back MIDI files, you can use the MIDI Player (in your Multimedia folder) to listen to any of the sample MIDI files provided with OS/2 Warp. IBMRALLY.MID is an instrumental recording of IBM's theme song, "Ever Onward IBM."

Here are the words so that you can sing along. Bear in mind that the lyrics date back decades, when women were not routinely employed in most industries (especially engineering and computing).

There's a feel-ing ev'ry where of big-ger things in store, Of new hor-i-zons com-ing in-to view. Our aim is clear: to make each year ex-ceed the one be-fore, Stay-ing in the lead in ev'ry-thing we do. The will to win is built right in, It will not be de-nied, And we will go a-head we know by work-ing side by side. Ev-er On-ward, Ev-er On-ward, That's the spir-it that has brought us fame. We're big but big-ger we will be. We can't fail for all can see That to serve hu-man-i-ty has been our aim. Our pro-ducts now are known in ev'ry zone. Our rep-u-ta-tion spark-les like a gem. We've fought our way thru and new Fields we're sure to con-quer too For the Ev-er On-ward I-B-M. Ev-er On-ward, Ev-er On-ward, We're bound for the top to nev-er fall. Right here and now we thank-ful-ly Pledge sin-cer-est loy-al-ty To the cor-por-a-tion that's the best of all. Our lead-ers we re-vere, And while we're here, Let's show the world just what we think of them! So let us sing men, sing men, Once or twice then sing a-gain For the Ev-er On-ward I-B-M!

(7.0) Glossary of Terms
The following terms are often used in conjunction with OS/2 Warp:
 * APAR:A bug fix which has been (or will be) created by IBM to address a very specific problem. (Example: "Please send me APAR 09761.")
 * ASPI:Adaptec SCSI Programming Interface: a standard set of services used by backup, scanning, and other types of software which require access to a SCSI adapter. OS/2 Warp comes with ASPI support for DOS, Windows, and OS/2 applications.
 * BonusPak:Free, full fledged applications included with OS/2 Warp at no extra charge. The BonusPak includes HyperAccess, Faxworks, Person to Person, the Internet Connection, Compuserve Information Manager, Video IN, IBM Works, and other applications. These applications not only demonstrate how powerful and easy-to-use OS/2 Warp really is, but they also let you get to work (or play!) right out-of-the-box.
 * CID:"Configuration/Installation/Distribution": a term usually used to refer to the ability to install an operating system or application remotely, over a network. (Example: "IBM TCP/IP 2.0 for OS/2 is now CID-enabled.") See.
 * CSD:"Corrective Service Diskette(s)": see.
 * DASD:"Direct Access Storage Device": disk space (most commonly a hard disk drive). (Example: "I do not have enough DASD for this new application."
 * DCE:"Distributed Computing Environment": an open software standard, created by the Open Software Foundation and backed by IBM and other vendors, which allows for applications to operate across a network and distribute the workload without a significant investment in programming. DCE supports common directory services (for accessing resources on a network), security (for preventing unauthorized or runaway applications from wreaking havoc on a network), and other management features. OS/2 Warp is a key platform for DCE, and IBM produces the most advanced implementations of DCE available on the market.
 * DMA:"Direct Memory Access": circuitry provided on all PCs to allow peripherals (such as disk controllers) to transfer data to memory directly, without the assistance of the computer's processor. Appropriate use of DMA can often help to improve overall system performance.
 * DPMI:"DOS Protected Mode Interface: a method used by some DOS applications (including Windows) to access memory beyond 640K on 80286 (or later) processors. OS/2 Warp can provide DPMI memory to DOS and Windows applications. See EMS and XMS.
 * EA:"Extended Attribute": up to 64K of assorted data stored with any file under OS/2. Such data may include file type (e.g. "Plain Text"), icons, comments, and other information which is best left outside the file itself. Only OS/2 applications can create and modify extended attributes.
 * EMS:"Expanded Memory Specification": one of several types of memory (beyond 640K) that can be used by certain DOS applications. OS/2 Warp can provide EMS memory to DOS applications. See DPMI and XMS.
 * ES:"Extended Services": see.
 * FAT:"File Allocation Table": the disk format introduced by DOS. See HPFS.
 * GA:"General Availability": available for purchase as a shrinkwrapped product from IBM and its dealers.
 * HPFS:"High Performance File System": see (1.5) High Performance File System.
 * IFS:"Installable File System": refers to an OS/2 driver used to manage a file system type. Available IFSes include NFS (used with TCP/IP networks), CD-ROM, HPFS, and HPFS386 (supplied with IBM LAN Server Advanced).
 * IPL:"Initial Program Load": starting a PC's operating system (i.e. booting or rebooting). (Example: "Please IPL your system now.") See also RIPL.
 * ISV:"Independent Software Vendor": a software developer, other than the provider of the operating system (such as IBM and OS/2), which produces applications for that operating system (e.g. Borland is an OS/2 ISV, producing Borland C++ for OS/2).
 * LA:"Limited Availability": available only from IBM to certain customers.
 * multitasking:Running two or more applications "simultaneously," dividing the computer processor's attention among them. (In fact, the two or more applications only appear to run simultaneously because the processor switches between them rapidly.) Cooperative multitasking, such as that found in Microsoft Windows and Macintosh System 7, requires that each application be written so as to "surrender" the computer's processor at regular intervals so that it can devote attention to other running applications. If one application for some reason refuses to yield the processor, all other applications stop running. Preemptive multitasking, as found in OS/2 and Unix, for example, leaves the operating system in charge of delegating processor time to each running application. The amount of attention given depends on the operating system's scheduler, the logic which assesses (and perhaps adjusts) the priorities of various tasks and assigns processor attention accordingly.
 * multithreading:An operating system's ability to manage what are sometimes called lightweight processes, namely subtasks which are spawned by applications. For example, a word processor may be written so that any printing operation is put in a separate thread. This thread is then run alongside the word processor itself, in the background, so that control returns immediately to the user of the word processor. OS/2 1.0 was the first major operating system to support threads. See multitasking.
 * object:The basic unit of interaction in OS/2 Warp. In some environments, such as Windows, users work only with files. In other environments, such as the Macintosh, users work with documents and applications. In OS/2 Warp, users work with objects (of which files and documents are but two types). OS/2 is easy to use because objects are generally not restricted in the ways they can be used based on computer-oriented restrictions (such as the length of names for objects). Rather, objects can be treated in very similar ways when using OS/2, with differences related to more human ideas of how things behave. For example, in OS/2 Warp every object (including the desktop itself, which is a folder-type object) has a pop-up menu, brought up with a click of the second mouse button. Printer objects have unique menu options (such as Change Status and Set Default). Likewise, document objects have other possible menu selections (such as Print). Disk objects have Format. But the whole point is that the user, not the computer, dictates how objects can be used and manipulated, insofar as possible.
 * OpenDoc:A set of technologies (slated for inclusion in OS/2 Warp in 1995) which, together, will deliver unprecendented flexibility in the way applications and objects can be combined, manipulated, and transformed by people using computers. OpenDoc recognizes that people are creating more and more complex documents, including documents which contain embedded runnable code (such as multimedia sound and video clips which activate with a mouse click), and they need a way to store, manage, link, and revise such documents, without unnecessary complexity. OpenDoc is a standard supported by members of the Component Integration Laboratories, including IBM, Apple, WordPerfect, Lotus, Novell/Wordperfect, and many other vendors. SOM is a key technology found in OpenDoc (and the Workplace Shell and its applications, including IBM Works, demonstrate several aspects of OpenDoc technology today).
 * PM:"Presentation Manager": the underlying services used by programmers and the Workplace Shell (see WPS) to provide windows, scroll bars, dialog boxes, and other essential interface elements.
 * PMR:"Problem Management Record": a number assigned by IBM to track a customer-reported problem. (Example: "I have opened PMR Number 9X534; please reference this number if you call again.")
 * PPP:"Point-to-Point Protocol": a standard communications method used to carry network protocols (especially TCP/IP) over a modem, ISDN, or other serial connection. Although PPP requires more overhead than SLIP, it is considered its successor. PPP is available, free of charge, for OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection.
 * RIPL:Remote Initial Program Load: the capability to boot (start) a PC (load its operating system) over a network. See IPL.
 * seamless:Refers to the ability to run Windows applications alongside OS/2 and DOS applications on the Workplace Shell (see WPS) desktop as opposed to the full screen Win-OS/2 desktop. (Example: "Will this video driver support seamless Windows?")
 * SLIP:"Serial Line Internet Protocol": or a means of sending TCP/IP network traffic over a modem or ISDN connection. SLIP is used when connecting to an Internet provider (such as the IBM Global Network) using OS/2 Warp's Internet Connection.
 * SMP:"Symmetric Multiprocessing": a set of technologies in which two or more computer processors (CPUs) are managed by one operating system to provide greater computing power to applications. With SMP, processors are treated more or less equally (with applications able to run on any or perhaps all processors in the system, interchangeably, at the operating system's discretion). Simple MP usually involves assigning each processor to a fixed task (such as managing the file system), reserving the single main CPU for general tasks. OS/2 for SMP provides true SMP capabilities on a variety of systems, including those which are compatible with the Intel MPS (Multiprocessing Specification) 1.1 standard.
 * SOM:"System Object Model": the underlying design which allows applications running on OS/2 Warp to be so tightly integrated, able to share data and, indeed, runnable objects quickly and easily. The Workplace Shell is the largest and most complex OS/2 application based on SOM, but there are many other applications which use SOM extensively (such as IBM Works, cc:Mail for OS/2, Chipchat Wireless Communicator, IBM Workframe 2.1, DeScribe Version 5, Mesa for OS/2, and more). For programmers, SOM is fully compliant with CORBA standards, fully distributable (over a network) without any programming changes, and is true object technology, with inheritance, encapsulation, and polymorphism. SOM objects running on OS/2 Warp are fully protected from one another and do not share the same address space. SOM is one of the key technologies in OpenDoc, is available on many other platforms, and has been declared a U.S. Federal Government open software standard.
 * SP:"Service Pak": see CSD. Sometimes numbered (e.g. "SP 2") to refer to a particular Service Pak.
 * Taligent:A company founded by IBM and Apple (with Hewlett-Packard also a major shareholder) with a mission to create a set of object-oriented software technologies, including the Taligent frameworks, for use by its parent companies in their products (including OS/2 Warp).
 * TCP/IP:"Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol": a protocol, widely available and implemented across a huge range of systems, which allows information to be transmitted across a network. TCP/IP is the protocol used by the Internet, and it is used over a SLIP connection in OS/2 Warp's built-in Internet Connection.
 * URL:"Universal Resource Locator": standard notation for locating and accessing information on the Internet which is used with a World Wide Web browser (such as the IBM Web Explorer).
 * Win-OS/2:IBM's customized version of Windows, based on Microsoft's own source code, which provides compatibility with Windows applications under OS/2. Windows is not emulated when it runs under OS/2; a real copy of Windows, only slightly modified, is used. OS/2 Warp is available both with and without Win-OS/2. The version of OS/2 Warp without Win-OS/2 is designed to use an existing copy of Windows or Windows for Workgroups (if present) to run Windows applications under OS/2 Warp. When running this way, that copy of Windows or Windows for Workgroups is also often called Win-OS/2.
 * Workplace OS:A set of technologies (not a product itself) which IBM is using to create future versions of OS/2 Warp (such as OS/2 Warp for PowerPC) and other operating systems. Key to this set of technologies is the IBM Microkernel (based on the Carnegie-Mellon Mach microkernel) and the ability to support multiple "personalities." Workplace OS technology allows IBM (and, in fact, other vendors) to create portable, reliable operating systems which are easily reconfigured to meet the needs of any buyer.
 * WPS:"Workplace Shell": OS/2 Warp's most commonly used user interface which provides icons, folders, drag-and-drop configuration, settings notebooks, and other features necessary for user interaction with the operating system and its applications.
 * XMS:"Extended Memory Specification": a method used by some DOS applications for accessing extended memory (beyond 640K) on 80286 (or better) processors. OS/2 Warp can provide XMS memory to DOS applications. See DPMI and EMS.