Commodore VICWRITER Computer Manual

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VICWRITER
USER GUIDE
VIC3305 — diskette
VIC3386 — cassette
С: commodore
COMPUTER
Commodore Business Machines, Inc.
1200 Wilson Drive * West Chester, PA 19380
Commodore Business Machines, Limited
3370 Pharmacy Avenue * Agincourt, Ontario, M1W 2K4
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
This manual was prepared on a COMMODORE 8000 series computer
system using a word processor. The files were then electronically
transmitted into a phototypesetter and typeset by
RANDALL TYPOGRAPHIC LTD, London W4
without compositor intervention. The manual was printed and bound by
CARTER LITHO, Slough
Special thanks to Gail Wellington, Marilyn Rutley and Della Phillips who
helped with the preparation of this manual.
VICFILE USER GUIDE
COMMENTS AND ERRATA REQUEST
TO THE READER
To the best of our knowledge, this manual is technically and
typographically correct at the time of going to print. However, no matter
how fine we make the sieve for catching errors, sometimes a few slip
through.
If you notice any mistakes, we would be grateful if you would notify us of
them. Comments, criticisms and suggestions are also earnestly solicited.
Yours sincerely,
C . hg
Claire E. Dixon
Technical Author
COMMODORE BUSINESS MACHINES (UK), LTD.
675 Ajax Avenue
Trading Estate
Slough, Berkshire 51.1 4BG
ENGLAND
iii
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
COPYRIGHT — SOFTWARE PRODUCT
This software product is copyrighted and all rights are reserved by:
LANDSOFT
The Courtyard
152-154 Ewell Road
Surbiton
Surrey
The distribution and sale of this product are intended for the original
purchaser only. Lawful users of these programs are hereby licensed only to
read these programs from the medium into the memory of a computer
solely for the purpose of executing the programs. Duplicating for any
other purpose, copying, selling or otherwise distributing this product is a
violation of the law.
COPYRIGHT —MANUAL
This manual is copyrighted and all rights are reserved. This document may
not, in whole or in part be copied, photocopied, reprinted, translated,
reduced to any electronic medium or machine readable form or
reproduced in any manner without prior consent in writing from
COMMODORE BUSINESS MACHINES, LTD., Software Product
Manager.
DISCLAIMER
Although programs are tested by COMMODORE before release, no claim
is made regarding the accuracy of this software. COMMODORE and its
distributors cannot assume liability or responsibility for any loss or damage
arising from the use of these programs. Programs are sold only on the
basis of this understanding. Individual applications should be thoroughly
tested before implementation. Should you require installation,
maintenance or training, please consult your COMMODORE dealer.
iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION ONE — INTRODUCTION
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1.5.1
1.5.2
1.5.3
1.6
1.7
1.7.1
1.7.2
1.7.2.1
1.7.2.2
1.7.3
1.7.3.1
1.7.3.2
1.7.3.3
1.7.4
INTRODUCTION TO VICWRITER................ 1-1
INTRODUCTION TO THE USER MANUAL........ 1-1
AN OVERVIEW OF VICWRITER.................. 1-2
INTRODUCTIÓN...........ee-reovccocoorecccooce. 1-2
WHAT IS VICWRITER ?.............e0.e.—res0croo. 1-2
HOW TEXT 15 УТОКЕр.......................... 1-2
WHAT CAN VICWRITER DO ?..............ee..e.. 1-3
Saving and Retrieving TeXt........0.0000000000000 00000 1-3
Printing TeXt...0.0.0.000000000 00er aa 0 aa a ea aa an eu 000 1-3
Editing Text............22220 0000 a see nca ane 00010 1-3
EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS. ................. ‚ 1-3
THE HARDWARE............erooroeorrecarorovevcos 1-3
THE VICWRITER SOFTWARE. ................... 1-4
PRECAUTIONS............eomreroosooceococcorare 1-5
THE WORKING ENVIRONMENT. ................ 1-5
CARE OF DISKETTES... iii 1-5
CAREOF CASSETTES... 0 0006 .1-6
BACKING UP INFORMATION. ...........eeocoo.. 1-7
GETTING STARTED... cities 1-7
CONNECTIONS. ..........eecrcrecerecocereoreone.. 1-7
TURNING ON THE COMPONENTS. .............. 1-8
The Hardware. ........ooeececcecooroorocarooroereo 1-8
Problems that may Arise. ........eeeocoecrrorerccooo. 1-10
THE VICWRITER SOFTWARE................... 1-10
Loading from Cassette. .....0.0.000000000000 0000000004 1-10
Loading from Diskette.............ecercorverareo. 1-11
Running VICWRITER........... cc. iit, 1-11
TURNING THE SYSTEM OFF.................... 1-12
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
SECTION TWO — LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.2.1
2.3.2.2
2.3.3
2.4
2.4.1
2.4.2
2.4.3
2.4.4
2.4.4.1
2.4.4.2
2.4.4.3
2.4.4.4
2.4.4.5
2.4.4.6
2.4.4.7
2.5
2.6
2.6.1
2.6.2
2.7
2.8
2.8.1
2.8.2
2.9
2.9.1
2.10
2.11
INTRODUCTION. ...........ee 008r0or0cacecoae.. 2-1
ABOUT THE EXAMPLE. ............emecocorcaroo 2-1
GETTING STARTED... 04e ae ee en a 006 2-1
FORMATTING A BLANK DISKETTE.............. 2-2
LOADING VICWRITER...........eeeorcooccccrooco 2-4
Loading from Cassette. .........e_.ee_ceorenovercoo. 2-4
Loading from DiskK..........ee.ereororerorcccrereo. 2-5
OPERATING VICWRITER..........e.eeeocoveracoo 2-5
СВЕАТИМС А РАСЕ ОЕ ТЕХТ.................... 2-6
TYPING THE TEXT... iin 2-7
USING THE FUNCTION KEYS. .........e.e.ereoo. 2-8
CHECKING THE TEXT.............—.ecoorcacorceo 2-8
EDITING THE TEXT. .............e.es0oerroecacooo 2-9
Overwriting Text.........eeeeereocoverecroreoocoon.. 2-10
Inserting Text..........eerereoerororoococo recreo. 2-10
Deleting Text...........r_eeorcocorrecarerercenec.. 2-11
Inserting Lines. .........eeeeorcrereoossosooreroceom. 2-11
Setting a Tab Position. ...........em.eceroreroarer. 2-11
Copying Text... ooo iii, 2-12
Ending the Editing. ........... cc ovina, 2-13
PRINTING THE TEXT..........e000scsorrmocereo. 2-13
SAVING THE TEXT... cite iin 2-14
SAVING ON CASSETTE. ..........e.eeorccvecooo 2-14
SAVING ON DISKETTE...........e.eseccacorea. 2-15
CLEARING THE EDIT BUFFER. ................. 2-15
LOADING THE TEXT... iin. 2-16
LOADING TEXT FROM CASSETTE.............. 2-16
LOADING TEXT FROM DISKETTE.............. 2-17
VIEWINGTHE TEXT ........ coi. 2-17
DELETING LINES ОЕ ТЕХТ..................... 2-18
ENDING THE SESSION. ...........eoerervorocar. 2-18
CONCLUSION ............ecesorccsrorecococrer. 2-19
vi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION THREE —- THE OPERATING SECTION
INTRODUCTION TO OPERATING SECTION... .... 3-1
KEYBOARD MODE (O or I)..........e....eoscoroo 3-1
SCAN/EDIT MODE (S)..............e.000ccocacoo 3-3
PRIMARY MODE (P)..............e0000.0eceveroo 3-4
USING THE VICWRITER OPTIONS............... 3-4
CREATING TEXT. .........eeseorocreoarerorea... 3-5
TYPING A PAGE OF ТЕХТ....................... 3-6
COMMANDS AVAILABLE KEYBOARD MODE....3-7
Select Sub-Mode............ceecoeceecencoreraorer.. 3-7
Set a Tab Position. ...........e..e.eeo0ecococorocooo 3-8
Delete a Character. ...........o_eooecoccoerrecrerecre.. 3-8
Insert a New Line..........eoeresccsororeorecraco.. 3-8
Clear a Line..........eeerescscsrooaeconooreoerarenm.. 3-8
Shift Text to the Right..............—e—eorcarecoraer. 3-8
Shift Text to the Left. ......0.0000000000000 0010000000 3-11
End of Text Marker... ane see 0e 3-11
Return to Scan/Edit Mode (S)..............e..e.... 3-11
EDITING EXISTING TEXT.........Ñ.............. 3-11
COMMANDS AVAILABLE SCAN/EDIT MODE...3-12
Delete Lines of Text...............e000c00recco. ‚..3-12
Delete a Single Line of Text (D)............00…00000 3-14
Сору а ВЮюсК о? Тех! (С).......................... 3-14
Моуе а В1осК о? Тех( (М). ......................... 3-16
Move a Line of Text..........eeecocecreorocrrereceoe 3-17
View Memory Space (B)............eocercsrecocre. 3-17
Enter Keyboard Mode (K)..............._eem_eerccao. 3-18
Exit to Primary Mode (X)...............e0esesccoo. 3-18
OTHER AVAILABLE COMMANDS......... ee 3-18
Increasing the Width of the Page.................... 3-18
Decreasing the Width of the Page................... 3-19
PRIMARY MODE (P)............e.eresvoccoccooo 3-20
COMMANDS AVAILABLE IN PRIMARY MODE. .3-21
Output Text to Diskette or Cassette (0). ............. 3-21
Input Text from Diskette or Cassette (I). ............. 3-23
Print Text.........eerreooorccaceocorrecrere reee. 3-24
vii
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
3.4.1.4 Clear the Edit Buffer. ............. citi. 3-24
3.4.1.5 Enter Зсап/Ваи Мод@е ($)......................... 3-25
3.4.1.6 End the Program.............. citi. 3-25
3.5 DISKETTE HANDLING COMMANDS. ........... 3-25
3.5.1 DISKETTE FORMATTING............eenmeconvcoo 3-25
3.5.2 SCRATCHING DISK FILES. ............ee.e..... 3-27
APPENDIX A — KEYBOARD NOTES
APPENDIX B- CONDITION CODES
GLOSSAR Y
INDEX
TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure
1-1 THE HARDWARE CONNECTED. ................. 1-4
1-2 THE SCREEN AT POWERUP..................... 1-9
1-3 THE FIRST VICWRITER SCREEN. ............... 1-12
2-1 THE SCREEN AT POWERUP..................... 2-2
2-2 SCREEN DISPLAY IN SCAN/EDITMODE......... 2-6
2-3 THE COMPLETED TEXT. ................ ooo. 2-9
3-1 THE SCREEN IN KEYBOARDMODE.............. 3-5
3-2 UNALIGNED NUMBERS..............e..eo0000... 3-9
3-3 NUMBERS AFTER ALIGNMENT ................. 3-10
viii
INTRODUCTION
SECTION ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 INTRODUCTION TO VICWRITER
VICWRITER is a versatile word-processing program which allows you to
create, store and modify text. VICWRITER can be used to write reports,
standard letters, memos, mailing lists, in fact, any text you like. Text can
be saved on cassette tape or diskette so that you can recall it and print it
out again as you require. Changes and updates can be easily made, printed
and stored.
1.2 INTRODUCTION TO THE USER MANUAL
The VICWRITER manual caters for the first time user with no knowledge
of VICWRITER by providing a training section to get you started. It also
acts as a handy reference guide for the more experienced user. The manual
is divided into three sections as outlined below:
SECTION ONE — INTRODUCTION
This section describes what VICWRITER is and how it works in broad
terms. It also includes a description of the equipment required to run
VICWRITER, a list of the precautions to be followed to prevent damage
to your diskettes or cassette tapes and instructions on how to turn your
system on and off safely and to load VICWRITER.
SECTION TWO — LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
This section is designed to train the first time user in the operation of
VICWRITER. This is accomplished by means of a simple step-by-step
example.
SECTION THREE — THE OPERATING SECTION
This section describes each command available, how it works and how to
use it. Several examples are included.
1-1
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
APPENDIX A —- KEYBOARD NOTES
This section describes the use of the cursor control and INST/DEL keys.
APPENDIX B—- CONDITION CODES
A list of Condition Codes generated by VICWRITER is given, along with
their meaning and the action to be taken when they occur.
GLOSSARY
This contains a list of terms used in this manual and their definitions.
1.3 AN OVERVIEW OF VICWRITER
1.3.1 INTRODUCTION
This section contains an explanation, in very general terms, of how
VICWRITER works and what it can do. Detailed descriptions of each
function are not given here but can be found in Section 3, the Operating
Section of this manual.
1.3.2 WHAT IS VICWRITER ?
VICWRITER is a WORDPROCESSOR which allows you to create, store
and manipulate text using the VIC 20 computer system. The program
provides several commands which you can initiate by simply typing a single
letter and any parameters the command requires. These commands enable
you to produce letters, reports or any text you like to your own
specifications. No knowledge of, or experience with, computers is
necessary for you to use VICWRITER effectively and with confidence.
1.3.3 HOW TEXT IS STORED
VICWRITER allows you to save any letters or reports you write on
cassette tape or diskette so that you can look them up later and make
changes to them or. print them out. A space is allocated for your text on
the diskette or cassette. This is called a file. You give each file a unique
name so that you can reference it.
CR a a Es Er НР НН ор се LE Моно ры В]
INTRODUCTION
1.3.4 WHAT CAN VICWRITER DO ?
1.3.4.1 Saving and Retrieving Text
VICWRITER allows you to save the text that you create. Storage may be
on diskette or cassette. You can recall it for reviewing, to make
amendments where necessary or print it out.
1.3.4.2 Printing Text
VICWRITER allows you to print out your text permitting you to specify
the width of margin you require on the page. You can stop the printing of
a page whenever you like.
1.3.4.3 Editing Text
VICWRITER provides several commands to allow you to change text until
it is in the form you require. The commands include inserting and deleting
lines and characters, setting tab positions, copying and moving blocks of
text, creating right aligned or left aligned text, clearing all text to the right
of the cursor position on a line and checking that you have not run low on
memory space.
1.4 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
1.4.1 THE HARDWARE
The VICWRITER program is designed to be used with a COMMODORE
VIC 20 computer system. The elements of this system are as follows:
1. A COMMODORE VIC 20 computer.
2. A COMMODORE VIC 1548 Disk Drive Unit and connecting cable
(if you have VICWRITER on diskette).
3. A COMMODORE C2N Cassette Unit (if you have VICWRITER
on cassette).
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
4. A COMMODORE VIC dot matrix printer and connecting cable.
5. A suitable television set or monitor.
6. An 8K or 16K (RAM) VIC memory expansion cartridge.
7. Three three-amp fused mains plugs.
The equipment must be connected as shown in Figure 1-1.
VIC 1530
VIC 20 Cassette
Computer Unit
di Mi a Mii a ee a
E. du
— J
VIC 1540 VIC
Single Drive Graphic Printer
Fioppy Disk
FIGURE 1-1 THE HARDWARE CONNECTED
1.4.2 THE VICWRITER SOFTWARE
The VICWRITER program is supplied on a diskette or a cassette. Since
the diskette cannot be duplicated, two copies are provided. Further
copies, if required, may be obtained from your COMMODORE dealer.
The VICWRITER cassette contains two copies of the program (one on
each side).
1-4
INTRODUCTION
1.5 PRECAUTIONS
VICWRITER is easy to use and relatively foolproof. However, some
simple precautions must be observed to protect the information in your
system from being distorted or destroyed.
1.5.1 THE WORKING ENVIRONMENT
In order to gain maximum efficiency and facilitate trouble-free operation,
your VIC 20 computer system requires a controlled working environment.
Avoid excessive heat, smoke or dust. What is comfortable for you is also
satisfactory for the computer. A well regulated power supply is essential as
any sudden increase or decrease in power will adversely affect the smooth
running of your computer. If you suspect that this is likely to occur, your
COMMODORE dealer can analyse the problem and recommend
solutions.
1.5.2 CARE OF DISKETTES
Diskettes must be handled with care. The following rules must be obeyed
in order to protect the information stored on your diskettes:
1. Keep the diskette in its storage envelope whenever it is not in the
drive unit.
2. Store the diskette in a diskette library case or other suitable rigid
container.
3. NEVER leave the diskette on top of the drive unit.
4. Keep diskettes away from magnets and magnetic fields such as
those generated by transformers, electronic motors, loudspeakers
and telephone bells.
5. Do not write on the diskette jacket or label with a lead pencil or
ball-point pen. Use a felt-tip pen or fill out the label before
attaching it to the diskette.
1-5
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
19.
11.
12.
13.
14.
Do not expose diskettes to excessive heat or sunlight. The
recommended temperature range for the storage and use of
diskettes is 50 to 120 degrees F.
Do not touch the diskette surface or centre hole. Hold the diskette
only on the encased area.
Do not attempt to clean the diskette. Abrasion will result in the
loss of stored information.
Do not turn the drive unit on or off whilst the diskette is in place.
Gently load the diskette into the drive unit. Rough handling or
forcing may damage the centre hole.
Do not remove the diskette whilst the program is loading.
Never remove the diskette from the drive unit whilst the drive-
active indicator light is lit or while the disk unit is whirring.
Never bend the diskette. Always keep it flat.
Do not attach notes to the diskette with a paper clip or staples.
1.5.3 CARE OF CASSETTES
The following rules should be obeyed in order to protect the information
stored on your cassettes and care for your cassette unit.
1.
2.
Keep the cassette in its box whenever it is not in the cassette unit.
Keep the cassettes away from magnets and magnetic fields such as
those generated by transformers, electric motors, loudspeakers and
telephone bells.
Do not expose cassettes to excessive heat or sunlight. The
recommended temperature range for storage and use of cassettes 1s
50 to 120 degrees F.
1-6
INTRODUCTION
4. Do not touch the exposed tape as this will leave moisture and dirt
on the tape’s surface.
5. Make sure that your cassette unit is at least three feet away from
the television set or monitor.
6. Keep the lid of the cassette unit closed when not in use.
7. Periodically de-magnetise the cassette heads using a de-magnetiser.
The heads should also be cleaned after every ten hours of playing
time using a standard head cleaning cassette. Both these products
are available from audio shops.
8. Check that the cassette tape is not loose on the spools before
inserting it into the cassette unit. Loose tape can be wound tightly
onto the spool by inserting a pencil into one of the two holes in the
cassette and turning it in the direction required.
1.6 BACKING UP INFORMATION
It is essential that at least two copies are kept of all the information you
have stored so that you will not lose this information if a diskette or
cassette becomes damaged. The way to do this is to save each page twice
on separate diskettes or cassettes.
1.7 GETTING STARTED
This section contains a brief explanation of how to turn on the
COMMODORE VIC 20 computer system and how to load, and then
RUN, VICWRITER.
1.7.1 CONNECTIONS
The VIC 20 computer system must be connected as shown in Figure 1-1.
Ensure that each component is switched off before connecting it to the
mains supply.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
1.7.2 TURNING ON THE COMPONENTS
1.7.2.1 The Hardware
The components of the VICWRITER system should be turned on in the
following order:
1. The T.V. set or monitor.
2. The COMMODORE VIC 20 computer (first ensuring that the 8K
or 16K (RAM) memory expansion cartridge has been inserted, label
uppermost, in the expansion port of the VIC).
3. The COMMODORE VIC 1549 disk drive unit (if you are using
one).
4. The COMMODORE VIC printer.
The expansion port of the VIC is the large slot at the rear of the computer.
The ON/OFF switch on the computer is of the rocker type and is located
on the right side panel of the computer. Press the projecting half of the
switch. After a few seconds, the screen will appear as shown in Figure 1-2.
INTRODUCTION
FIGURE 1-2 THE SCREEN AT POWER UP
The BYTES FREE message will read 19967 if you are using a 16K and
11775 if using an 8K memory expansion cartridge.
The switch on the disk drive unit is also of the rocker type and is situated
at the rear of the unit on the right hand side. Press the projecting half of
the switch. The two lights on the disk drive, the red drive light and the
green power light, will both come on. After a few seconds, the red drive
light will go off. —
The ON/OFF switch on the printer is again of the rocker type and is
located on the left hand edge of the machine. Press the projecting half of
the switch. The print head will move to the centre of the page and then to
its original position. The printer need not be switched on until it is
required.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
1.7.2.2 Problems that may Arise
If any component of the system does not come on, or the screen display is
not as shown, or the disk unit lights do not conform to the sequence
above, turn the system off. Ensure that the cables and mains supply are
properly connected and try again. If the trouble persists consult your
COMMODORE VIC dealer.
1.7.3 THE VICWRITER SOFTWARE
VICWRITER is a program contained on diskette or cassette. The
following two sections describe the method of loading the VICWRITER
program.
If you have purchased the diskette version proceed to Section 1.7.3.2.
1.7.3.1 Loading from Cassette
Open the cassette unit by pressing the STOP/EJECT key. Remove the
cassette from its box and with the exposed tape towards you insert it into
the cassette unit. Close the lid on the cassette unit. To load VICWRITER
type:
LOAD“ VICWRITER”,1,1
or:
LOAD““‘’,1,1
and then press the RETURN key.
VIC will ask you to:
PRESS PLAY ON TAPE
1-19
INTRODUCTION
Depress the PLAY button and the tape will begin to move. The following
sequence of messages will then appear:
OK
SEARCHING FOR VICWRITER
FOUND VICWRITER
LOADING
About 5 minutes will elapse.
Now proceed to Section 1.7.3.3.
1.7.3.2 Loading from Diskette
Remove the diskette from its protective sleeve. Insert the diskette into the
drive ensuring that the label on the diskette is facing up and that the write
protect tab is to the left. Gently push the diskette into the drive and close
the disk drive door by pushing down the tab at the front of the door. To
load VICWRITER type:
LOAD **>. 8.1
and then press the RETURN key.
The red disk drive light will come on for a few seconds and the drive will
whir quietly. The following sequence of messages will appear:
SEARCHING FOR *
LOADING
1.7.3.3 Running VICWRITER
When VICWRITER has been loaded, the screen will appear as shown in
Figure 1-3.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
FIGURE 1-3 THE FIRST VICWRITER SCREEN
You are now ready to use the VICWRITER word processor.
1.7.4 TURNING THE SYSTEM OFF
If using the disk drive unit, first ensure that the drive unit is not whirring.
Push the drive door inwards and then let it rise to the open position.
Remove the diskette, place it in its protective sleeve and store it in a safe
place. If using the cassette unit press the STOP/EJECT key to eject the
cassette. Remove the cassette and return it to its box.
Switch off the equipment in the reverse order from that used when turning
on, i.e. the printer, the drive unit, the computer and finally the T.V. set or
monitor.
WARNING
DO NOT TURN THE SYSTEM OFF BEFORE
REMOVING THE DISKETTE FROM THE
DRIVE UNIT
1-12
TRAINING
SECTION
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
SECTION TWO
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
2.1 INTRODUCTION
The following section is designed to train the first time user in the
operation of VICWRITER, by means of a step-by-step example. Not all
the options available are incorporated into the example but enough are
used to give you an idea of what VICWRITER can achieve. More detailed
information about the functions is given in the Operating
Section, Section 3.
2.2 ABOUT THE EXAMPLE
The example used is very easy to follow. It is important that you work
through each stage from start to finish. Don’t start in the middle. When
you have completed it you should feel confident enough to try your own
examples and use more of the functions available. (See the Operating
Section.)
2.3 GETTING STARTED
The following operations detail how to load VICWRITER from either a
cassette tape or a floppy disk.
Before loading the program ensure that an 8K or 16K memory expansion
cartridge has been inserted into the expansion port of your VIC. The
expansion port is the large slot at the back of the VIC. NEVER insert the
expansion cartridge with the VIC switched on. The switch to turn off the
VIC is to the right of the keyboard and on the side. When the VIC is
switched on, the screen appears as in Figure 2-1.
2-1
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
FIGURE 2-1 THE SCREEN AT POWER UP
The bytes free message will read 19967 if you are using a 16K and 11775 if
using an 8K memory expansion cartridge. The flashing blue square is
called the cursor, which allows movement around the screen. If you are
not familiar with using the cursor control keys and the INST/DEL key,
read Appendix A before proceeding with your training.
2.3.1 FORMATTING A BLANK DISKETTE
If you are using the diskette version of VICWRITER and you want to save
your pages of text on diskette you must first format a diskette. This simply
prepares the diskette so that you can save information on it. You will need
this blank diskette later on in the training section.
WARNING
THE FORMATTING OF A DISKETTE THAT
ALREADY CONTAINS DATA WILL
PERMANENTLY ERASE ALL OF THE DATA
ON THE DISKETTE.
2-2
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
Remove the diskette from its sleeve and insert it into the VIC 1549 disk
drive unit. The diskette must be inserted with the label uppermost and the
square notch on the diskette to the left. Holding the diskette horizontally,
gently push it into the narrow slot at the front of the drive. Once it is in its
place flip down the tab on the drive. The tab is in the centre of the slot.
To format the diskette type:
OPENI15,8,15:PRINT #15,’ N@:DISK 1,01’
and press the RETURN key
The red light at the front of the disk drive unit will come on and the drive
unit will whir for several seconds. VIC displays the message:
READY
If the red light does not come on check that the power is switched on (the
green light at the front of the drive will be on) and that the disk drive is
attached to the back of the VIC 20. Press the RUN/STOP key and re-type
the command shown above.
After the READY message has appeared type:
CLOSEIS
and press the RETURN key.
The red light on the drive unit will come on and after about 30 seconds will
go out and VIC displays the READY message again. Your diskette is now
formatted, i.e. is ready to receive text created by VICWRITER. For
further details on disk formatting refer to Section 3.5.1 of the Operating
Section. Please note that disk formatting can only be done outside the
VICWRITER program.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
2.3.2 LOADING VICWRITER
2.3.2.1 Loading from Cassette
Remove the cassette tape from its box and insert it into the cassette unit.
Make sure that the cassette is rewound to the beginning. If it is not, press
the REW key on the cassette unit. After the cassette is rewound press the
STOP/EJECT key.
To load VICWRITER type:
LOAD“”’,1,1
and then press the RETURN key.
The screen displays:
PRESS PLAY ON TAPE
Now depress the PLAY button on the cassette unit and the VIC displays:
OK
SEARCHING
FOUND VICWRITER
LOADING
and briefly SEARCHING again.
This will take about five minutes after which the first VICWRITER screen
appears. If the load was successful, i.e. the screen appears, press the
STOP/EJECT key on the cassette deck, remove the cassette and return it
to its case. Now proceed to Section 2.3.3. If an error message appears (e.g.
LOAD ERROR) press the STOP/EJECT button and, rewind the tape
and carry out this section again. Alternatively, load the copy on the other
side of the cassette. Now proceed to Section 2.3.3.
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
2.3.2.2 Loading from Disk
Remove the diskette from its sleeve and insert it into the VIC 1549 disk
drive unit. The diskette must be inserted with the label uppermost and the
write protect tab on the diskette to the left. Holding the diskette
horizontally, gently push it into the narrow slot at the front of the drive.
Once it is in place flip down the tab on the drive. The tab is in the centre of
the slot.
To load VICWRITER type:
LOAD “*”* 8,1
and then press the RETURN key.
VIC displays:
SEARCHING FOR *
LOADING
This will take about 38 seconds after which the first VICWRITER screen
appears.
If the load was successful, flip up the tab on the slot at the front of the
drive. The diskette will disengage and move slightly forward. Remove the
diskette and return it to its protective sleeve. If the message LOAD
ERROR appears instead, remove the diskette, turn the disk drive off using
the switch at the back of the drive to the right, then turn it on again. Now
carry out this section again. If this is unsuccessful try the backup copy of
the diskette, if this still proves to be unsuccessful have your drive unit
serviced.
2.3.3 OPERATING VICWRITER
Once the program is loaded you are ready to begin to create text. The
screen displays:
VICWRITER md=P
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
on the top line and the cursor will be on the second line. The letters ‘md’
are short for mode and P is short for Primary. There are three modes and
the commands available in each are different. (See Sections 3.2.2, 3.3.1,
and 3.4.1.)
2.4 CREATING A PAGE OF TEXT
Type S60. This is displayed as S 60 on the second line. The 60 tells
VICWRITER that you want a page width of 60 characters. The width of
the page can be set at any value between 20 and 80 characters but 60 is a
typical width giving average margins on your VIC printer. The default
value is 80, i.e. if you do not specify a width it is set at the maximum.
Now press RETURN. The screen appears as in Figure 2-2.
FIGURE 2-2 SCREEN DISPLAY IN SCAN/EDIT MODE
2-6
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
The mode is now S which is short for Scan/Edit Mode. The line number
001 is also displayed indicating the line on which you are typing. The white
line at the bottom of the screen (the base line) resembles a piece of
typewriter paper. The up-arrow (1) indicates where the next character to
be typed will appear.
The numbers on the lower white line indicate at which position you are
typing. To use VICWRITER to create text you must specify K for
keyboard, which will then allow you to use the keys like a typewriter.
When K is typed the mode indicator changes from S to O, indicating
Keyboard Mode.
Now type K. A K will appear at the top left of the screen and the mode
indicator will change to O signifying Overwrite Sub-mode. (It is called a
sub-mode as it is part of the Keyboard Mode.) This allows you to type
anything you like on the white line at the bottom of the screen.
2.4.1 TYPING THE TEXT
The keys on the VIC keyboard can be used in the same manner as those on
a typewriter, using the SHIFT key to obtain upper-case characters.
Throughout the following sections the abbreviation VC will be used for
the vertical cursor key, and HC for the horizontal cursor key. Simply press
the appropriate key once for each occurrence of the abbreviation. (See
Appendix A for their uses.)
Type in the following text (that which is written in italics), trying to make
as few mistakes as possible. If you do mis-spell a word refer to Appendix A
which will help you to correct it. Leave two spaces after a full stop and one
space after a comma.
VC HC HC HC HC Vicwriter is a versatile and easy to use word processing
package. It acts just like a typewriter, but with VICWRITER it is far easier
to correct mistakes. It comes in both disk and tape form and represents
good value for money.
Now press the RETURN key to create a new paragraph.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
HC HC HC HC No longer will you have to sit and wonder if a word will fit
onto a line. VICWRITER automatically puts a word onto the next line, if
it will not fit on the current line, to make your work look neat and
professional.
Press RETURN to end the paragraph.
2.4.2 USING THE FUNCTION KEYS
The function keys are the tan keys on the right of the keyboard.
VICWRITER enables you to use two of these keys, F5 and F7 to scan the
page faster than by using the cursor control keys. This will save you time if
you are at the end of a long page of text and want to go back up to the first
line of the page.
FS This allows rapid vertical movement DOWN 10 lines.
F6 This is obtained by holding the SA7F7 key down and pressing FS.
This allows rapid vertical movement UP 19 lines.
F7 This allows rapid horizontal movement to the RIGHT 16 places.
F8 This is obtained by holding the SHIFT key down and pressing F7.
This allows rapid horizontal movement to the LEFT 10 places.
2.4.3 CHECKING THE TEXT
Move back to the top of your text by holding down the SHIFT key and
pressing the F5 key once. It is likely that you have made a few mistakes so
locate them now as follows. Move down to the first line of text by pressing
the vertical cursor control key. Scan each line in turn by holding down the
horizontal cursor control key so that each line moves past your view.
When you reach the right margin of the page the cursor will automatically
move down to the left margin of the next line.
To stop and correct a word, simply take your finger off the HC key. If
necessary, move back to the word using the shifted HC key. (See
Appendix A for details of cursor control and editing words.)
2-8
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
Finish your scanning at the space after the full stop following the word
‘professional’. The up-arrow will be pointing at the space after the full
stop. This is IMPORTANT to the rest of the example. The screen should
appear as in Figure 2-3 below:
FIGURE 2-3 THE COMPLETED TEXT
2.4.4 EDITING THE TEXT
Now that you have typed in and checked this text, you can make some
changes. By using the F5 and F7 keys on the right of the keyboard you can
move about the page more quickly than by using the cursor controls which
only move one character or line at a time.
J
|
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
2.4.4.1 Overwriting Text
The first alteration is on line 002. Change the word ‘Vicwriter’ to capital
letters. To do this press:
SHIFT and FS
VC
SHIFT and F7 (4 times)
HC (3 times)
so that the up-arrow is under the ‘i’.
Now press the SH/FT/LOCK key. This locks the keyboard in upper-case
characters. Re-type the letters in the word and they change into capital
letters. This is called overwriting as it replaces the characters with whatever
is being entered from the keyboard. Press SHIFT/LOCK again to return
to lower-case characters.
2.4.4.2 Inserting Text
Next, change the word ‘acts’ on the third line to the word ‘behaves’. The
new word is longer than the one it will replace, so you cannot just
overwrite it as it will also overwrite the ‘ju’ in ‘just’. Press the VC key and
type beha
Now press the CTRL key and then type ves
The word has been inserted without overwriting the word ‘just’. All the
text on the line to the right of ‘behaves’ has moved along three places.
Pressing the CTRL key in the Keyboard Mode puts the program into Sub-
mode I for Insert. (See Section 3.2.2.1 of the Operating Section.) This
creates a space for the character that is typed and all the text to the right of
the cursor position will be moved along one place.
To get back to Overwrite (O) Sub-mode you must now press the CTRL
key again.
2-10
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
2.4.4.3 Deleting Text
Now delete the words ‘neat and’ from line 909. Press the VC key 6 times
and the HC key 8 times to position the up-arrow in the space between
‘and’ and ‘professional’. Now press the INST/DEL key 9 times.
You should see the characters to the left of the cursor disappear as you
press the INST/DEL key. The word ‘professional’ will move to the left to
fill in the space.
2.4.4.4 Inserting Lines
The text would look better if it had a heading and it is not too late to insert
one. Move to line 001 by using the SHIFT and F5 key together.
Unfortunately the text starts at line 902 and there is not enough room for a
heading. You need two extra lines before the text. If you look at the lower
left of the keyboard you will see a key labelled with the COMMODORE
logo. In VICWRITER this key is used to insert lines. Hold this key down
and press the up-arrow key twice.
The text has moved down two lines giving two extra lines on which you
may write. Move to line 001 by pressing SHIFT and VC twice.
2.4.4.5 Setting a Tab Position
To accent the title it can be underlined after it is typed. It would be more
convenient to go beneath the first letter of the heading after it is entered
instead of going back to the beginning of the next line. To do this you
must set a ‘tab’.
Press the RUN/STOP key.
A blue square appears below the up-arrow (1) on the base line. This
indicates that a tab has been set.
Now type:
The merits of VICWRITER
and press RETURN
2-11
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
The cursor will be positioned under the “T’ on the next line. Now press the
“ - key 23 times to underline the heading and press RETURN.
The cursor again moves to the tab position. As you don't want this tab
position again, press SHIFT and F7 twice to reach the left margin. Press
the RUN/STOP key to reset the tab position to the extreme left.
2.4.4.6 Copying Text
Suppose you want the second paragraph twice. To copy text you must be
in the Scan/Edit Mode (S), so press the CLR/HOME key and the mode
indicator changes to S.
Now type:
C
the screen displays C on the second line
Position the cursor at the first line of the paragraph (line 008) by using the
vertical cursor key. The line begins with “No longer......... ” Press the
RETURN key. The screen displays:
C 008;
Now position the cursor at the end of the paragraph by pressing the VC
key 3 times; the line (line #11) begins with ‘make your....... > Press the
RETURN key. The screen displays:
C 008,011;
Press the RETURN key again. The screen displays:
C 008;011;011
The paragraph has been copied so that it appears below the original. A
block may be repeated any number of times by simply moving to the new
starting location and pressing the RETURN key again. Now press the
CLR/HOME key to end copying.
2-12
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
2.4.4.7 Ending the Editing
Type K to return to the Keyboard Mode (0). Move to the first blank line
after the text (line #16) by using the VC key.
Type #
The # is obtained by pressing SHIFTED 3. This symbol is used to indicate
the end of the text to the printer.
Now press the CLR/HOME key and then type X. The mode will now be
Primary (P) and the screen will be clear of text. The CLR/HOME key
returns you to Scan/Edit Mode (S) and the X returns you to Primary
Mode (P).
2.5 PRINTING THE TEXT
Before commencing this section ensure that you have a VIC printer
connected to your computer and that the printer is on. (Consult the
printer manual for instructions.) Type:
P screen displays P
10 screen displays P 10
Now press the RETURN key twice.
The printer will print the text that you have created. If nothing happens
clear the command by pressing the CLR/HOME key and then check that
your printer is connected. (See Section 1.4). Then type in the command
again.
The 19 indicates to the printer that you want a 18 character left margin
before the text. When printing has stopped press the CLR/HOME key
and the command will disappear.
2-13
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
2.6 SAVING THE TEXT
VICWRITER allows you to store your page of text on cassette tape or
floppy disk, so that it may be retrieved for reviewing, printing or changing
at a later date.
2.6.1 SAVING ON CASSETTE
Insert a blank cassette into the cassette unit. (See Section 2.3.2.1.) Type:
О screen displays O
1 and press RETURN screen displays O 1;
hippo screen displays O l;hippo
Now press the RETURN key.
This will save the text, naming it ‘hippo’ on the cassette. The VIC will
display:
PRESS RECORD AND PLAY ON TAPE
Press down the PLAY and REC buttons on the cassette unit ensuring that
they are both engaged.
VIC displays:
OK
SAVING hippo
The characters > > 4 appear at the top right hand corner of the screen.
This is a Condition Code (See Appendix B) and indicates that the save was
successful. Press the CLR/HOME key to clear the Condition Code. Now
proceed to section 2.7.
2-14
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
2.6.2 SAVING ON DISKETTE
Before using any diskette for the first time it must be formatted. This
simply prepares your diskette so that you can save information on it. For
details on how to format a diskette see Section 2.3.1.
Insert a blank formatted floppy diskette into the disk drive unit. (See
Section 2.3.2.2.) Type:
O screen displays O
8 and press RETURN screen displays O 8;
hippo and press RETURN screen displays O 8;hippo
This will save the text on the diskette naming it ‘hippo’. The VIC displays:
SAVING
The characters > > 4 appear at the top right hand corner of the screen
after a few seconds. This is a Condition Code (see Appendix B) and
indicates that the save was successful. Press the CLR/HOME key to clear
the Condition Code.
2.7 CLEARING THE EDIT BUFFER
The EDIT BUFFER is the name given to the area of memory which is used
to store your text. Clear this area by pressing the SHIFTED C key and
then press the RETURN key.
WARNING
THIS COMMAND SHOULD ALWAYS BE
USED WITH CAUTION AS THE CONTENTS
CANNOT BE RESTORED WITHOUT
RETYPING UNLESS THEY HAVE BEEN
SAVED ON CASSETTE OR DISKETTE FIRST.
Now type S60 and press RETURN. Press the VC key several times and you
will see that you now have a blank page. This is because you have cleared
the Edit Buffer. Type X to return to Primary Mode (P).
2-15
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
2.8 LOADING THE TEXT
Now recall the text which you saved.
2.8.1 LOADING TEXT FROM CASSETTE
REWIND the cassette before trying to load the file. When the cassette has
been rewound, press the STOP/EJECT button. Next type:
I screen displays I
I and press RETURN screen displays I 1;
hippo and press RETURN screen displays I 1;hippo
Make sure that you have entered the name correctly (no capital letters).
VIC displays:
PRESS PLAY ON TAPE
Depress the PLAY button. VIC displays:
OK
SEARCHING FOR hippo
FOUND hippo
LOADING
After about 38 seconds the characters > > 4 appear at the right hand
corner of the screen (see Appendix B) to indicate that the load is
successful. Press the CLR/HOME key to clear the Condition Code.
If the Condition Code does not appear after 3 minutes or the screen does
not display ‘found’, stop and rewind the tape and then press the
STOP/EJECT button. Press the RUN/STOP key on your VIC and then
press CLR/HOME. Now carry out this section again, making sure that
you specify the correct name and that the tape is rewound right to the
beginning. Now go to Section 2.9.
2-16
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
2.8.2 LOADING TEXT FROM DISKETTE
Type:
I screen displays I
8 and press RETURN screen displays I 8;
hippo and press RETURN screen displays I 8;hippo
Make sure that you have entered the name correctly (no capital letters).
VIC displays:
SEARCHING FOR hippo
LOADING
The characters > > 4 appear at the right hand corner of the screen to
indicate that the load is successful. (See Appendix B.)
If the Condition Code does not appear, or a different code appears or
‘loading’ is not displayed after a few minutes press the RUN/STOP key
and then the CLR/HOME key to clear the command. Remove the
diskette from the drive unit first flipping up the tab on the front of the
drive to disengage it. Turn the drive unit off using the switch on the right
hand side of the back of the drive unit and then switch it back on again.
Put the diskette back into the drive unit making sure you have the label
uppermost and the square notch to the left. Press the CLR/HOME key to
clear the Condition Code. Now start again from the beginning of this
section.
2.9 VIEWING THE TEXT
Type:
S screen displays S
60 screen displays S 60
Now press the RETURN key and you will be in Scan/Edit Mode. Press
the VC key several times and you will see that your page of text is back in
the Edit Buffer. (See Section 2.7.)
2-17
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
2.9.1 DELETING LINES OF TEXT
Suppose that you do not like the sentence beginning ‘No longer....."” on
line 908. To delete this sentence you will have to delete this line and half of
the next line. To delete the first line move down to line 008 using the VC
key. Type:
D and press RETURN screen displays D 008;
Now press RETURN again and the line will be deleted. The screen
displays:
D 008;008
Press the CLR/HOME key to clear the command.
Now delete the remainder of the sentence by pressing the HC key 16 times
and then press K to enter Keyboard Mode (0). You need to be in Sub-
mode (1) to delete characters so press the CTRL key. Next press the
INST/DEL key 16 times so that the V is at the left boundary of the page.
To re-align the paragraph you must insert spaces. To do this press the
space bar twice. Press the CLR/HOME key to return to Scan/Edit Mode.
2.19 ENDING THE SESSION
Type X to return to Primary Mode (P)
Pressing SHIFTED E will terminate the program and the VIC will have a
screen display as at power up indicating that you are back in VIC BASIC.
This command will clear the program and any text held in the Edit Buffer.
Therefore it should be used with CAUTION.
Now hold down the SHIFT key and press the E key.
2-18
LEARNING TO USE VICWRITER
2.11 CONCLUSION
Now that you have completed the Training Section you should have a
good idea of how VICWRITER works. More detailed information on the
commands available can be found in the Operating Section, together with
some commands you have not yet used, such as right and left alignment of
text, clearing text to the right of the up-arrow and moving blocks of text.
You can now use the program to create your own letters and reports and
with a little practise you will soon be an expert at using VICWRITER.
NOTES
2-19
SECTION
THE OPERATING SECTION
SECTION THREE
THE OPERATING SECTION
3.1 INTRODUCTION TO THE OPERATING
SECTION
The following is designed as a reference section which can be used in the
day-to-day operation of VICWRITER to find answers to questions as they
arise.
VICWRITER uses 3 modes - PRIMARY (P), SCAN/EDIT (S) and
KEYBOARD (K), the latter has two sub-options O or I. The initial letter
of each mode is always displayed on the top line of the screen and indicates
what commands are available to you at that level.
When you have loaded the program (see Section 2.3.2) VICWRITER
displays the following:
VICWRITER md =P
The letters ‘md’ are the abbreviation for mode.
The following three sections explain each mode and the commands that
are available within that mode. References are given to the more detailed
instructions in Sections 3.2, 3.3, 3.4 and 3.5.
3.1.1 K- KEYBOARD MODE (0 or I)
Keyboard Mode is indicated by a K on line two of the screen. It allows you
to type in text from the keyboard which is then stored by the program in
the Edit Buffer. This is an area of memory which is used to retain any text
created or recalled from diskette or cassette. The Keyboard Mode has two
sub modes, I and O. The status is usually O for OVERWRITE, which
means that any characters you type will replace the original characters.
Keyboard Mode also allows you to insert characters (see Section 3.2.2.1)
using the INSERT (I) sub-mode.
3-1
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
In addition to allowing you to type in text, Keyboard Mode has the
following options to help you to modify your text:
Set a Tab Position
VICWRITER will automatically begin each line of text at position 1, i.e.
the extreme left margin of the page. This position may be changed using
VICWRITER's tab option. See Section 3.2.2.2.
Delete a Character
Removes one character at a time from the text. See Section 3.2.2.3.
Insert a Character
Causes all characters to the right of the position indicated by the up-arrow
to move one place to the right as each new character is typed. See Section
3.2.2.1.
Insert a Line
Creates a blank line on which you can then type. See section 3.2.2.4.
Clear a Line
Deletes all text from the right of the up-arrow to the end of the line. See
Section 3.2.2.5.
Shift Text to the Right
Moves characters to a new position to the right of the original. See Section
3.2.2.6.
Shift Text to the Left
Moves characters to a new position to the left of the original. See Section
3.2.2.7.
Set End of Text Marker #
Indicates to the printer when to stop printing. See Section 3.2.2.8.
Enter Scan/Edit Mode
Exits from the Keyboard Mode so that you can use the commands
available in Scan/Edit Mode. See Section 3.2.2.9.
THE OPERATING SECTION
3.1.2 S-SCAN/EDIT MODE
This mode allows you to modify text which already exists in the computer.
It includes 6 options which are initiated by typing a letter followed by any
parameters necessary to carry out the command. A brief description of
each option follows:
Delete (D)
Removes a line or several consecutive lines of text. See Section 3.3.1.1.
Copy (C)
Duplicates a block of text. A block may be repeated any number of times,
memory space allowing. See Section 3.3.1.3.
Move (M)
Moves a block of text from one place to another, deleting the original
block. See Section 3.3.1.4.
View Memory Space (B)
Checks that you are not running short of memory space for your text. See
Section 3.3.1.6.
Enter Keyboard Mode (K)
Changes from Scan/Edit to Keyboard Mode. See Section 3.3.1.7.
Exit Command (X)
Leaves Scan/Edit Mode so you can use the commands available in
Primary Mode. See Section 3.3.1.8.
3-3
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
3.1.3 P-PRIMARY MODE
This mode allows you to save, recall or print the text after it has been
created. You cannot create or modify text in this mode. (See Section 3.4.)
The commands within Primary Mode are as follows:
Output (0)
Stores your page of text on diskette or cassette for future use. See Section
3.4.1.1.
Input (1)
Recalls previously saved pages of text from diskette or cassette. See
Section 3.4.1.2.
Print (P)
Prints the text currently in the Edit Buffer. See Section 3.4.1.3.
Clear (C)
Empties the Edit Buffer of all text, thus allowing you to type in a new
page. See Section 3.4.1.4.
Enter Scan/Edit Mode (S)
Exits Primary Mode and enters Scan/Edit Mode so that you can use the
commands available in that mode. This command also enables you to set
the required width of the page in the range 20 to 86 characters. See Section
3.4.1.5.
End Program (E)
This command should be used with caution as it terminates the program
and clears it from memory. Any text held in the Edit Buffer will be lost
unless it has been stored on cassette or diskette before the command is
used. See Section 3.4.1.6.
3.1.4 USING THE VICWRITER OPTIONS
The sections above contained brief descriptions of all VICWRITER
options. The following sections contain detailed instructions for operating
each command. They are structured logically so that you can create your
text, then edit it and finally print it out and/or save it.
3-4
THE OPERATING SECTION
3.2 CREATING TEXT
This section contains all the options available in Keyboard Mode to help
you create and edit your text. When text is stored within the computer it is
in an area that is called the Edit Buffer. This is the area of memory which
is used to store any text created using VICWRITER. Keyboard Mode is
indicated by a K on line two of the screen. Before creating text and
entering Keyboard Mode you must first specify the page width required in
Primary Mode. Press S and then enter a number from 20 to 80 (sixty is
common) and press the RETURN key. Then type K. The screen will
appear as shown in Figure 3-1.
FIGURE 3-1 THE SCREEN IN KEYBOARD MODE
3-5
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
You can now type anything you like on the screen using the keys as you
would on a typewriter. The O on line one stands for overwrite and this
indicates that any character you type will overwrite the character
positioned above the up-arrow on the blue line. When you are first typing
this is a space or blank. The up-arrow acts as the cursor indicating where
the next character you type will appear. Text can only be entered or
altered when it is on the line above the blue line. The blue line is known as
the base line.
The numbers on the lower white line indicate at which position you are
typing. Each number represents 10 character positions along the page. The
numbers will range from 1 to 8 (for a maximum page width of 80
characters) so that if you specify a page width of 609 characters the
rightmost number will be 6. Each block of 10 is subdivided into 10
characters, indicated by a dash, with the fifth character of each block of
10 being a plus sign to indicate the half way point.
The cursor control keys at the lower right of the keyboard can be used to
move about the page and the two function keys FS and F7 can be used for
faster vertical or horizontal movement. (See Section 2.4.2 for instructions
on how to use the function keys and Appendix A for information on the
cursor keys.)
When you move down a new page using the vertical cursor key, a question
mark appears to the left of the white base line. This indicates that the
current line is the bottom of the page. If you then move back up the page
using the SHIFTED vertical cursor key the question mark will disappear.
3.2.1 TYPING A PAGE OF TEXT
To create a page of text using the cursor keys (see Appendix A) move to
the place where you want your first words positioned. You can then type
the text using the keys as you would on a typewriter. Do not move to the
next line when you reach the end of the first line, just continue typing. If
the last word on the line is too long to fit on that line VICWRITER will
automatically transfer the whole of the word to the next line.
When you come to the end of a paragraph, press the RETURN key and
VICWRITER will move down to the next line so that you can start your
next paragraph.
THE OPERATING SECTION
3.2.2 COMMANDS AVAILABLE IN KEYBOARD MODE
CTRL Select sub-mode
STOP Set tab position
DEL Delete a character
CBM (1) Insert a new line
CBM (=) Clear a line
CBM > Shift text to the right
CBM < Shift text to the left
# End of text marker
CLR Return to Scan/Edit Mode (S)
Note: CBM refers to the COMMODORE logo key on the lower left of the
keyboard.
3.2.2.1 Select Sub-Mode
When you enter the Keyboard Mode you will be in the O Sub-mode
(OVERWRITE). Text typed in this mode will replace the characters on the
baseline.
Pressing the CTRL key on the left of the keyboard activates the I Sub-
mode (INSERT). In this mode, space will be made for characters being
typed, i.e. all text to the right of the cursor position will be moved along.
If inserting causes the rightmost word to be too long for the current line,
VICWRITER will transfer the word to the line below and move all the
characters on the next line to the right to compensate. This allows you to
insert words, lines or whole paragraphs without having to re-type any of
the text. To return to Overwrite (0) Sub-mode press the CTRL key again.
The Insert Sub-mode also effects the operation of the DEL key. When
using the DEL key in the Insert Sub-mode, VICWRITER will not only
close up the words on that line but it will also bring up words from the
following lines thus closing up the spaces in the text completely.
3-7
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
3.2.2.2 Set a Tab Position
When you enter the Keyboard Mode (O), the tab is set on the extreme left
boundary. By moving the up-arrow position and pressing the RUN/STOP
key a new tab position can be set. A blue block will appear on the line
below the base line indicating the tab position. Only one tab position can
be set at a time. When entering text, exceeding the right boundary or
pressing the RETURN key will move the cursor to the tab position. The
tab position in effect becomes a temporary new left margin location. To
remove the tab, position the line so that the up-arrow is at the extreme left
boundary and press the RUN/STOP key.
3.2.2.3 Delete a Character
Pressing the INST/DEL key will remove the character to the left of the
current cursor position and close up the words on that line to occupy the
space of the deleted character. In the Insert Sub-mode (see Section
3.2.2.1), the INST/DEL key will also bring up the words from the
following lines and so close up the spaces in the text completely. In the O
mode this will not occur.
3.2.2.4 Insert a New Line
Pressing the COMMODORE logo key and the | key together will insert a
blank line at the base line position. If the keys are held down there 1s a
repeat action, i.e. blank lines are inserted until the keys are released.
3.2.2.5 Clear a Line
Pressing the COMMODORE logo key and the left arrow (—) key situated
at the top left of the keyboard will delete the text that is on the base line to
the right of the up-arrow.
3.2.2.6 Shift Text to the Right
Pressing the CBM key and the > key moves the text on the base line to the
right of the tab position so that the rightmost character of the text is at the
position of the up-arrow. This is done by removing all trailing blanks and
inserting leading blanks and is useful for aligning, for example, columns of
figures.
3-8
THE OPERATING SECTION
NOTE
The tab position must be to the left of the cursor
position. You must set the tab prior to aligning the
text. (See Section 3.2.2.2.) |
Example: You have a list of figures of varying lengths, all starting in
column one as shown in Figure 3-2.
FIGURE 3-2 UNALIGNED NUMBERS
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
You wish to align them so that all the rightmost characters are in line. Set
the tab for column one by moving the cursor to the left margin and
pressing the RUN/STOP key. Move the cursor 15 positions to the right
using the horizontal cursor key. Now move up the screen to the first
number you wish to align, using the shifted vertical cursor key. Hold down
the COMMODORE logo key and press the > key. The number will move
across so that the first digit is in the cursor position. Now move down to
the next line by pressing the vertical cursor key. Press the logo key and the
> key together and the second number will move across to the cursor
position. Repeat this procedure for each number. The screen will appear
as shown in Figure 3-3.
FIGURE 3-3 NUMBERS AFTER ALIGNMENT
THE OPERATING SECTION
3.2.2.7 Shift Text to the Left
Pressing the Commodore logo key and < key together moves the text on
the base line which is before the up-arrow back to the left so that the
leftmost character is at the position of the tab marker. All leading blanks
are removed and trailing blanks are inserted. This is useful for aligning text
to form a table, for example columns of names, and for repositioning rows
of text which are already aligned but are in the wrong position.
NOTE
The tab position must be to the left of the cursor
position and, unless you require the text to be
moved to the left margin of the page (column one),
must be set before aligning the text.
3.2.2.8 End of Text Marker
A # entered in column one (i.e. the extreme left margin of the page) of a
BLANK LINE is used to indicate the end of the text. The printer will stop
when it sees this character. Any text following the # will NOT be printed
(see Section 3.4.1.3 for printing instructions) until you press RETURN
again. Using this character will help you to set out your pages on the line
printer.
3.2.2.9 Return to Scan/Edit Mode (S)
Pressing the CLR/HOME key will exit from the Keyboard Mode (0) and
return you to the Scan/Edit Mode (S).
3.3 EDITING EXISTING TEXT
This section contains detailed information on using the commands
available in Scan/Edit Mode to modify existing text, check on the memory
space left for storing the text and increase or decrease the paragraph
width. Commands typed in this mode are displayed on line two of the
screen. To clear a command at any time simply press the CLR/HOME
key.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
If an illegal operation is attempted, Condition Code 3 (see Appendix B)
will appear in the top right hand corner. This message can be cleared by
pressing the CLR/HOME key.
To enter Scan/Edit Mode from Primary Mode type S. You must then
specify the width of the page you require. If no page width is specified, i.e.
after typing $ you press the RETURN key, VICWRITER will
automatically set the page at 88 characters wide. If you attempt to set a
page width outside the 20 and 80 characters restriction, Condition Code 3
will be displayed at the top right corner of the screen. To clear this you
must press the CLR/HOME key and then re-enter the command.
To create a page width of 69 characters (which is about standard):
Press $ screen shows S on line two.
Type 60 and then press RETURN.
To enter Scan/Edit Mode from Keyboard Mode press the CLR/HOME
key.
3.3.1 COMMANDS AVAILABLE IN SCAN/EDIT MODE
Delete lines of text
Copy a block of text
Move a block of text
View memory space
Enter Keyboard Mode (O)
Exit to Primary Mode (P)
KEE Z AOD
Two other facilities are included in this section although they are not used
solely in Scan/Edit Mode. These enable you to change the width of a
paragraph after it has been set up.
3.3.1.1 Delete Lines of Text
This command deletes consecutive lines of text between two cursor
positions. To DELETE a block of text:
Type D screen displays D on line two of the screen.
THE OPERATING SECTION
Position the cursor so that the first line of the text to be deleted is on the
base line using the cursor control keys.
Press RETURN screen displays D line no;
Position the cursor, using the cursor control keys, so that the last line of
the text to be deleted is on the base line.
Press RETURN screen displays D line no:line no
All the text between these lines will then be deleted.
NOTE
DO NOT enter the line numbers. Positioning the
text and pressing RETURN automatically does
this. The first line number must be less than the
second line number otherwise Condition Code 3 is
displayed in the top right hand corner of the
screen. To clear the message, press the
CLR/HOME key. Repeat the block specification
in the correct order.
For example, you wish to delete some text beginning at line 7 and ending at
line 12:
Press D screen displays D on line two
Position the cursor on line 7 using the cursor control keys
Press RETURN screen displays D 007;
Position the cursor on line 12 using the cursor control keys
Press RETURN screen displays D 997,012
All the text within and including lines 7 and 12 is deleted.
Press the CLR/HOME key to clear the command.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
3.3.1.2 Delete a Single Line of Text (D)
Type D
Position the page so that the line you wish to delete is on the base line.
Press the RETURN key twice.
This will delete the text which is on the base line. Press the CLR/HOME
key to clear the command.
3.3.1.3 Copy a Block of Text (C)
This command enables you to duplicate a block of text, inserting it where
required. You must be in Scan/ Edit Mode (S) to use this command. (See
Section 3.4.1.5.) To copy a block of text type:
C screen displays C on line two
Position the text, using the cursor contro! keys, so that the top line of the
text to be copied is on the base line.
Press RETURN screen displays C line no;
Position the text, using the cursor control keys, so that the bottom line of
the text to be copied is on the base line.
Press RETURN screen displays C line no;line no;
Position the text, using the cursor control keys, at the line to which you
want to copy the text (note the copy will be inserted below the line on the
base line).
Press RETURN screen displays C line no;line no;line no
The block of text will then be duplicated.
THE OPERATING SECTION
NOTE
DO NOT enter the line numbers. Positioning the
line on the base line and pressing RETURN
automatically does this. The first line number must
be less than the second line number and the third
line number must not fall within the block of text
being duplicated.
For example, if you wish to copy a block starting at line 18 and ending at
line 40, you CANNOT insert it after line 15 as this falls within the block of
text. Condition Code 3 will appear in the top right hand corner of the
screen if you attempt this. The Condition Code is cleared by pressing the
CLR/HOME key.
Example: To copy some text which begins at line 9 and ends at line 28,
placing it after line 38, type:
C screen displays C on line two
Position line 9 on the base line using the cursor control keys
Press RETURN screen displays C 909;
Position line 20 on the base line using the cursor control keys
Press RETURN screen displays C 009;020;
Position to line 38 using the cursor control keys
Press RETURN screen displays C 009;020;034
The text between and including lines 9 and 20 will appear after line 38 as
well as in its original position.
A block may be repeated any number of times by positioning the cursor to
the line after which you wish to copy the text and pressing the RETURN
key again.
Press the CLR/HOME key to end the command.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
3.3.1.4 Move a Block of Text (M)
This command is similar to Copy (see Section 3.3.1.3) but in this case the
original block of text is deleted, i.e. M simply moves a block of text from
one place to another.
To MOVE a block of text type:
M screen displays M on line two
Position the text, using the cursor control keys, so that the top line of the
text to be moved is on the base line.
Press RETURN screen displays M line no;
Position the text, using the cursor control keys, so that the bottom line of
text to be moved is on the base line
Press RETURN screen displays M line no;line no;
Position the text at the line to which you want to move the block. (Note
that the block will be inserted below the text on the base line.)
Press RETURN screen displays M line no;line no;line no
This will move the text and delete the original.
NOTE
DO NOT enter the line numbers. Positioning the
text and pressing RETURN automatically does
this. The first line number must be less than the
second line number and the third line number must
not fall within the block of text being duplicated.
Condition Code 3 is displayed in the top right hand
corner of the screen if an illegal copy command is
attempted. To clear this press the CLR/HOME
key.
3-16
THE OPERATING SECTION
Example: To move a block of text which starts at line 30 and ends at line
35, repositioning it after line 9, type:
M screen displays M on line two
Position to line 30 using the cursor keys
Press RETURN screen displays M 039:
Position to line 35 using the cursor keys
Press RETURN screen displays M 030;035;
Position to line 9 using the cursor keys
Press RETURN screen displays M 030;035;009
The text between and including lines 39 and 35 will be moved to the
position beginning after 9. Lines 30 to 35 will be deleted. Press the
CLR/HOME key to end the command.
3.3.1.5 Move a Line of Text
To move a single line type M and then position on the line you wish to
move and press RETURN twice. Then position to the new location and
press RETURN. This will move the line, deleting it at its original location.
Press the CLR/HOME key to end the command.
3.3.1.6 View Memory Space (B)
Typing B allows you to see how much memory is unused, expressed in
bytes. If the amount is low (i.e. below 10 bytes) you should save the page
on diskette or cassette or print it out. This will ensure that you do not run
out of space for the final lines of the text. Any text typed after memory is
full will not be stored in the Edit Buffer. Once you have saved the text you
can clear the Edit Buffer (see Section 3.4.1.4) and type the remaining text
on a new page.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
3.3.1.7 Enter Keyboard Mode (K)
By pressing the K key you can pass control to the Keyboard Mode so that
the text can be typed into the Edit Buffer from the keyboard thus allowing
you to create or amend text. A K will appear on the second line of the
screen. See Section 3.2.2 for the commands available in Keyboard Mode.
3.3.1.8 Exit to Primary Mode (X)
By pressing the X key you leave the Scan/Edit Mode (S) and return to
Primary Mode (P). (See Section 3.4.) This will not affect the contents of
the Edit Buffer.
3.3.2 OTHER AVAILABLE COMMANDS
Section 3.3 described how to define the width of a page i.e. to specify the
maximum number of characters each line could contain. The instructions
that follow will enable you to increase or decrease the width, if you decide
to change this value after text has been entered.
3.3.2.1 Increasing the Width of the Page
To increase the width of the page after text has been typed in, follow the
procedure below. Each paragraph you wish to alter should be done
separately, otherwise the first sentence of a new paragraph will be placed
directly after the last sentence of the preceding paragraph.
1. Press the CLR/HOME key to return to Scan/Edit Mode unless
you are in this mode already.
2. Press X to enter Primary Mode.
3. Re-enter Scan/Edit Mode (see Section 3.3) specifying the new page
width.
4. Press K to enter Keyboard Mode.
5. Set the tab (see Section 3.2.2.2) to the position of the leftmost
character of the text to be altered.
9.
THE OPERATING SECTION
Position the up-arrow at the first column position, i.e. the extreme
left margin of the page on the last line of the text to be altered.
Select the Insert Sub-mode (I) by pressing the CTRL key.
Press the INST/DEL key and then press the SHIFTed vertical
cursor key.
Repeat step (8) for each line, up to the first line to be altered.
When you view the page, you will see that the text has expanded to fill the
new longer lines. To change subsequent paragraphs, using the same page
width, carry out steps (5) to (9).
3.3.2.2 Decreasing the Width of the Page
To decrease the width of the page after text has been typed in, follow the
procedure below. Each paragraph you wish to alter should be done
separately, otherwise the first sentence of a new paragraph will be placed
directly after the last sentence of the preceding paragraph.
1.
Set the tab (see Section 3.2.2.2) so that it aligns with the leftmost
character of the text to be altered.
Position the cursor at the first line of the text to be altered.
Select the Insert Sub-mode (I) by pressing the CTRL key. Before
proceeding further, work out how far across the page you will need
to push the lines to achieve the smaller page width required. For
example, if you specified a page width of 50 originally and you now
find you need a page 30 characters wide, you must move each line
across 20 places using the space bar. Similarly if your page was 80
characters wide and you want to reduce it to 49 you must move
each line across 40 characters using the space bar. The numbers
below the blue line at the bottom of the screen may help you.
Use the SPACE bar to push the text as far to the right as is
required to give you the new page width.
Press RETURN and repeat step (4) for each line.
3-19
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
6. Select Overwrite Sub-mode (O) by pressing the CTRL key.
7. Reposition the up-arrow at the first character of the first line you
wish to alter. Using the INST/DEL key move the characters to the
extreme left margin (unless you require the line indented as for
example at the beginning of a paragraph). Move to the first
character of the next line by using the cursor keys and repeat step
(7) for each subsequent line.
8. Return to Primary Mode (P) by pressing the CLR/HOME key and
then pressing X. Re-enter Scan/Edit Mode (S) (see Section 3.3)
specifying the new shorter line length .
When you view the text, you will find that the page width has decreased.
3.4 PRIMARY MODE (P)
Commands typed in this mode are displayed on the second line of the
screen. After the required key is pressed, the parameter (if applicable) is
entered and the RETURN key is pressed to initiate the command. Before
the RETURN key has been pressed, the INST/DEL key can be used to
erase an incorrect parameter so that it can be corrected. The command can
be cleared by pressing the CLR/HOME key.
If an illegal parameter is entered, Condition Code 3 (see Appendix B) is
displayed at the top right hand corner of the screen. When the code
appears it is necessary to clear the command by pressing the CLR/HOME
key and then re-entering it.
This mode is entered when the program is first loaded, or from the
Scan/Edit Mode (S) when the X key is pressed.
3-20
THE OPERATING SECTION
3.4.1 COMMANDS AVAILABLE IN PRIMARY MODE
Output text to diskette or cassette
Input text from diskette or cassette
Print text
Cancel contents of Edit Buffer
Enter Scan/Edit Mode (S)
End program
m N CO о
3.4.1.1 Output Text to Diskette or Cassette (0)
Format: O device no;filename
This command saves text that is in the Edit Buffer, storing it on diskette or
cassette. The device number can be either:
a) | (indicating output to cassette)
b) 8 (indicating output to diskette)
The filename can be up to 11 characters long and should be unique to the
diskette or cassette. For example to save some text called “ILETTER' on
cassette:
Press O the screen shows O
Press 1and RETURN the screen shows O 1;
Type /LETTER
Press RETURN the screen shows O 1; 1LETTER
Your VIC will then ask:
PRESS RECORD AND PLAY ON TAPE
If at this point you decide that you don’t want to save the letter, you must
press the RUN/STOP key (Condition Code 4 will then appear) and then
the CLR/HOME key. If you press the REC and PLAY buttons on the
cassette unit, your VIC displays:
OK
SAVING ILETTER
3-21
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
This may take several minutes, depending on the amount of text to be
saved.
NOTE
If you attempt to save text on diskette using a
filename you have already used once, Condition
Code 4 will appear almost immediately and the red
light on the front of the drive unit will be flashing
but YOUR TEXT WILL NOT BE SAVED.
Therefore, beware if saving appears to be very
quick.
If this does occur remove the diskette from the drive unit, turn the disk
drive off using the switch on the right at the back and then turn it on
again. Insert the diskette into the drive unit. Press the CLR/HOME key
and re-enter the command using a different file name.
When saving has finished, Condition Code 4 (see Appendix B) will appear
at the top right hand corner of the screen. This indicates that the save was
successful. Press the CLR/HOME key to clear the Condition Code.
If a Condition Code other than 4 is displayed, indicating that the save was
NOT successful, clear the code by pressing the CLR/HOME key and try
to save the text again.
Be careful to keep a record of your filenames for future reference. You
should always make two copies of any text just in case one copy becomes
damaged or lost. If you are saving on diskette make sure that the diskette
is formatted first. See Section 3.5.1 for instructions on diskette
formatting.
3-22
THE OPERATING SECTION
3.4.1.2 Input Text from Diskette or Cassette (I)
Format: I device no;filename
This command loads a text file from diskette or cassette into the Edit
Buffer. Existing text stored in the Edit Buffer will be overwritten.
The device number can either be:
a) 1 (indicating input from casseite)
b) 8 (indicating input from diskette)
For example to load some text called ‘1LETTER’ from diskette:
Press / the screen shows I
Press 8 RETURN the screen shows | 8;
Type /LETTER |
Press RETURN the screen shows I 8; 1LETTER
VIC displays:
SEARCHING FOR ¡LETTER
LOADING
[f the operation is successful Condition Code 4 will be displayed at the top
right hand corner of the screen. If any other Condition Code appears,
refer to Appendix B for the meaning of the code and the action to be
taken. Press the CLR/HOME key to clear the Condition Code.
Note that if the following was entered:
| 8;1*
the first file on the diskette whose name began with “1” would be
loaded. 18;1LET* would load the first file beginning with 1LET” and so
on. For this reason it is advantageous to begin each of your text files on
diskette with a different number. For example: ILETTER, 2LETTER,
3LETTER and so on. The name of the required file can be loaded by just
entering the first character. For example to load 3LETTER type:
| 8;3*
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
3.4.1.3 Print Text
Format: P margin width
This command enables you to print out the current text in the Edit Buffer.
The margin width required plus the longest line width in the Edit Buffer
must not exceed 89 characters. For example, if you specify your page
width (see Section 3.4.1.5) as 78 characters and your margin as 15
characters, the total is greater than 809 characters and Condition Code 3
will be displayed (see Appendix B). To clear this, press the CLR/HOME
key and re-enter the command with a margin which gives a total of less
than 89 characters, for example 19. If no margin is specified, i.e. you type
P and then press the RETURN key twice, the printer will print your text,
starting at column one of the paper.
To print, first ensure the red POWER light on the printer is on. To print
with a margin of 10:
Press P screen shows P
Enter 10 screen shows P 10
Press RETURN twice
Printing commences with each line indented by 10 characters.
To STOP printing press the RUN/STOP key. To recommence printing
press the RETURN key. If your text is separated by lines containing a # in
column one (see Section 3.2.2.8) the printer stops when it encounters this
character. This enables you to align the paper at the top of a new page if
you wish. To continue with the next block of text press RETURN again.
To terminate the command press the CLR/HOME key.
3.4.1.4 Clear the Edit Buffer
Format: SHIFT C
WARNING
THIS COMMAND SHOULD BE USED WITH
EXTREME CAUTION. IT CLEARS THE
CONTENTS OF THE EDIT BUFFER, ie.
DESTROYS WHAT IS THERE. STORE THE
CONTENTS FIRST. (SEE SECTION 3.4.1.1.)
3-24
THE OPERATING SECTION
Clear allows you to start a new page of text. Type a SHIFTed C and press
the RETURN key to initiate the command.
3.4.1.5 Enter Scan/Edit Mode (S)
Format: S page width (in range 20 to 80)
This command passes control to the Scan/Edit commands (see Section
3.3) so that text may be created or manipulated.
3.4.1.6 End the Program
Format: SHIFT E
WARNING
THIS COMMAND SHOULD BE USED WITH
EXTREME CAUTION. IT TERMINATES THE
PROGRAM AND CLEARS IT FROM THE
MEMORY. ANY TEXT HELD IN THE EDIT
BUFFER WILL BE LOST.
Before using this command save any text that may be required again (see
Section 3.4.1.1). When End is executed VIC will return you to the screen
as at power up.
3.5 DISKETTE HANDLING COMMANDS
The following two sections contain instructions for formatting your
diskettes and keeping diskettes up-to-date by deleting (scratching) files
you no longer need.
3.5.1 DISKETTE FORMATTING
Whenever a new diskette is to be used it must first be formatted. This
prepares the diskette so that it is ready to accept information.
Format: OPEN15,8,15:PRINT #15,”’N@:name,id’’:CLOSE15
3-25
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
The ‘name’ can be up to 16 characters long. For example DISKI,
MEMOS, REPORTS.
The ‘id’ is a 2 character identifier which should be unique for each new
diskette you use. You could use identifiers in ascending order, for exam-
ple, 01, 02 up to 99. Letters can also be used, for example, AA, AB, Al,
2X etc.
To format a diskette with the name EXAMPLE and the identifier 01 type:
OPENI15,8,15:PRINT £ 15, ”N0:EXAMPLE, 01”
and press the RETURN key.
The red light at the front of the drive unit will come on and the drive unit
will whir for several seconds. VIC will display the READY message.
If the red light does not come on check that the power is switched on (the
green light at the front of the drive unit will be on) and that the disk drive
is attached to the back of the VIC 20. Press the RUN/STOP key and re-
type the command shown above.
After the READY message has appeared type:
CLOSEI1S and press the RETURN key.
The red light on the drive unit will come on for about 39 seconds after
which VIC will display the READY message. Your diskette is now ready to
receive text created by VICWRITER.
IMPORTANT
Formatting can only be done outside the
VICWRITER program. Make sure you have a for-
matted diskette ready whenever you use
VICWRITER because if you realise you need a
diskette when you are using VICWRITER, exiting
the program will cause you to lose the current page
of text you have in memory.
3-26
THE OPERATING SECTION
3.5.2 SCRATCHING DISK FILES
Scratching simply means removing a file from the diskette. This allows you
to delete any pages that you no longer require.
Format: OPENI15,8,15: PRINT #15,°’S@:filename’’:CLOSE15
The filename must correspond to a file of text on the diskette. For
example to delete a file called LETTERIS type:
OPEN15,8,15:PRINT 415, SO:LETTER15”” and press the RETURN
key.
The red light at the front of the drive unit will come on. If the red light
does not come on check that the drive unit is switched on (the green light
should be on) and that it is connected to the back of your VIC 20. Press
the RUN/STOP key and then re-type the command.
When scratching has finished VIC will display the READY message. Now
type:
CLOSEI1IS and press RETURN
IMPORTANT
Scratching files can only be done outside the
VICWRITER program.
3-27
A В
PE EE SPELL PR FLARE
DO ES
KEYBOARD NOTES
APPENDIX A
KEYBOARD NOTES
CONTROLLING THE CURSOR
The “cursor” is the flashing block below the READY which appears on
the screen when you turn on the computer. The position of the cursor
determines where the characters will appear on the screen when you type
them. There are two keys on the keyboard of your VIC computer which
control the principal movement of the cursor on the screen. These are the
keys marked CRSR, one marked with horizontal (left and right) arrows
and one with vertical (up and down) arrows.
Depressing the key with the horizontal arrow will move the cursor one
space to the right. Pressing this key whilst holding down the SHIFT key
will move the cursor back to the left. Similarly, the vertical CRSR key will
move the cursor down and with the SHIFT key depressed will move it up.
If you want the cursor to return directly to the upper left corner of the
screen which is called the HOME position, simply press the key marked
CLR/HOME. Practice moving the cursor around the screen using these
keys.
NOTE
Within VICWRITER the cursor appears as an up-
arrow (|) on the base line in Keyboard Mode and
Scan/Edit Mode. Note that the page moves rather
than the cursor, i.e. if you press the horizontal
cursor key the page will move to the left.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
CORRECTING TYPING MISTAKES
Before starting to use your VIC program, you should know how to correct
typing errors so that you need not worry if you press the wrong key from
time to time. Correcting errors is simple on the VIC 20 computer. Try it.
Type the following anywhere on the screen:
Where errorrs are conserned the ky to scksess is try.
To correct ““errorrs”, place the cursor over the ‘‘s’’. Now press the
INST/DEL key once. You will now have:
errors
The DELETE function takes the letter under the cursor and “pulls” it,
along with all the following text, one position to the left. This action
covers whatever was originally in the position to the left of the cursor.
Next place the cursor over the “s”” in “conserned”” and press the c key.
Notice how the computer simply overwrites whatever is under the cursor.
Now place the cursor over the “y” in “ky”. Hold down the SHIFT key
and press the INST/DEL key once. Notice how the INSERT function
““pushes” all of the text to the right of the cursor one position, leaving a
blank space under the cursor where you can now type the missing “e”.
Try out these techniques yourself by correcting ‘‘scksess’’.
Before proceeding with any other activity on the screen press RETURN.
The computer will display the message:
?syntax error
ready
You may now load VICWRITER as explained in Section 2.3.2.
A-2
CONDITION CODES
APPENDIX B
CONDITION CODES
The Condition Codes are displayed in the top right hand corner of the
screen in the form > > 3. All except Code 4 are used to highlight error
conditions. If a Condition Code is displayed, check its meaning and then
clear the code by pressing the CLR/HOME key. This will then allow you
to enter the command again if an error occurred or enter another
command if the last one was successful.
CODE : 1
MEANING
The space allocated to the Edit Buffer has been exceeded.
ACTION
Reset with the CLR/HOME key. To continue, save text entered so far and
clear the Edit Buffer (see Section 3.4.1.4). Then type in the rest of the text
on a new page.
CODE : 3
MEANING
The last parameter entered was illegal.
ACTION
Reset with the CLR/HOME key. Check the permissable parameter values
under the appropriate command description in the Operating Section.
CODE : 4
MEANING
This is not an error situation. The last command invoked has ended
successfully.
ACTION
Reset with the CLR/HOME key.
B-1
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
CODE : 5
MEANING
An error occurred whilst a file was being loaded.
ACTION
Reset with the CLR/HOME key. If you are using a diskette, make sure
that the diskette has been formatted and that the disk drive unit is
attached to the VIC. Make sure that you specify the correct file name. If
you are using cassette, rewind the cassette and try loading again.
CODE : 6
MEANING
An attempt was made to load an invalid file.
ACTION
Reset with the CLR/HOME key. Ensure that the correct file name is
specified.
GLOSSARY
GLOSSARY
BASE LINE
The line above the dark blue line at the bottom of the screen. All
characters that are typed in Keyboard Mode will appear here.
CHARACTER
Each individual symbol which appears on the screen, whether it is a letter,
a number, punctuation mark, or space, i.e. everything that is created by
pressing a key.
CONDITION CODE
A number used to indicate the status of an operation, mainly used to
indicate error situations.
CURSOR
The flashing square which appears on the screen when VIC is switched on.
Any character typed will appear in the position indicated by the cursor. In
VICWRITER the cursor is represented by the up-arrow (1) on the blue
line near the bottom of the screen.
DEVICE NUMBER
A number used to distinguish input or output to cassette from input or
output to diskette. A 1 denotes input/output to cassette, an 8 denotes
input/output to diskette.
EDIT BUFFER
The area of VIC’s memory used to store any text created using
VICWRITER, or loaded into the program from diskette or cassette.
FILE
The space allocated on the diskette or casstte for storing your page of text.
FORMATTING
Before using any new diskette it must be prepared or formatted. Once
formatted it can be used to save your text files.
FUNCTION KEY
One of 4 tan keys situated on the right side of the keyboard. VICWRITER
uses F5 and F7 for fast scanning vertically and horizontally respectively.
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
INSERT SUB-MODE (I)
A Sub-mode (I) which is used for inserting characters at the cursor
position. All text to the right of the cursor position is moved to the right to
make space for the inserted character.
KEYBOARD MODE (0)
This mode (O) allows the user to type text into the Edit Buffer from the
keyboard. It is entered from the Scan/Edit Mode (S).
MODE
Displayed on the top line of the screen as md =P. Indicates commands
available at that level. The three modes are P, S and K.
OVERWRITE SUB-MODE (O)
In this Sub-mode (O) typing over text will replace the characters above the
up-arrow with whatever is being entered from the keyboard.
PARAMETER
A variable specified by the user to produce text in the way required. For
example, the margin required for printing.
PRIMARY MODE (P)
The highest level in the program. This mode is displayed when you first
enter the program. Commands entered in this mode are displayed on line 2
of the screen. After the required key is pressed, the parameter (if any) is
entered and the RETURN key pressed to initiate the command.
SCAN/EDIT MODE (S)
This mode is entered from Primary Mode (P). It allows the user to display
and modify text in the Edit Buffer.
SCRATCHING
Deleting a file containing a page of text on diskette.
SUB-MODE
The lowest level mode available, part of the Keyboard Mode. Overwrite
and Insert are Sub-modes and are obtained by pressing the C7RL key. Lor
O (Insert or Overwrite) appears on the top line of the screen.
TEXT
Anything which you type onto a page in Keyboard Mode is text. All text is
stored in the Edit Buffer.
G-2
INDEX
INDEX
Page
Alignment of text
tothe left... iii ieee 3-11
to the Tight... oii ii i i i a a en aa are ee 3-8
Backing up information... iii iii ieee 1-7
B Command. ..... coi tire 3-17
Cancelling Commands...........e.e_o_erescsrooroerocococoro 3-11,3-20
Cassette
care Of.........eoceor0roeaceoranearocreroorerecororecarercoca 1-6
loading from.......ñ..eceereoseccroreoreerecare. 1-10,2-4,2-16,3-23
Clearing
the Edit Buffer. ....... ccna. 2-15,3-24
line to right of cursor........2202000 00 4e a ii tie nee na 000 6 3-8
Condition Codes. .............eeéercereerecoroocorrocarenrereerone B-1
Copy command. .......oéeooeeeerereveroecscorcoeaorecaocorece, 2-12,3-14
Creating teXt.............eooecoreossoreccrereccorocrenrenre.. 2-6,3-5
Cursor control keys. ............o_eooreoverererererecrecoreecrer 2-7
Decreasing page width.......20020000 000 ae ea a aa a na ae aa ea a aa ae 0 3-19
Deleting
characters ..........c_eceerersecorecoreororeonorreronceroc eo. 3-8
lines. ......ooerecroooecarococoadcarecoararacernarcercaceao 2-18,3-12
Diskette
(671 280) 5...) каво квон ооо вовововов ое вовооввооввое 1-5
formatting.........._oeoeocoecooccsesccororesococorereretrer. 2-2,3-25
loading from.........eoecweeceoccrorocoororoeren 1-11,2-5,2-17,3-23
Edit Buffer
clearing............r_eeaorcsovcreccreorererarcrorecoereoce, 2-15,3-24
use Of........eoceoanecooororecrroeredarcarcerarcarercereoco 2-15,3-5
Editing text...........e_c_eoececeooocrorecoracererecorer cerca, 2-9,3-11
End of program command..........._eceeocerecccrreceoecar. 2-18,3-25
End of text marker.........0100200000 00 aa aa a ae ae a aa 0000 0 2-13,3-11
Exit to Primary Mode...............eeo ooreccoc0rrecoreceeo 2-13,3-18
Exit to Scan/Edit Mode..............oeecreocccccaooeescor. 2-13,3-11
1-1
VICWRITER USER GUIDE
Filenames.......ooonroerecoroecavercerecocacarecarercarecernae, 3-21,3-22
Formatting a diskette. .............eo_ooeeeenocsrooocororeoao 2-2,3-25
Function keys. ..... te teeter eee 2-8
Hardware
connecting........_ec_eecoecoooccorerecdoracrerasarercacreaeorem 1-7
requirements. .........e._..eoocceooecosrocrrercnaoarecacanraare 1-3
turning ON......._.eeoceoorerecocreracracenecnanonarorere vera 1-8
Increasing page Width...........oeeerrereoccoreocorecacoreceae, 3-18
Inserting
characters.........eoéreecreoocoroocsocorerecarercarocorenaea 2-10,3-7
lines. ........e..ee0rererecororecorecr error erercer rre. 2-11,3-8
Insert Sub-mode.............eeeeece_ecrecodoocoererocoreoova 2-10,3-7
Keyboard Mode. ............—eooe0eweecsccorerecerecacere, 2-7,3-1,3-5
Left alignment of teXt.............e__eeceeecceesorocacerereroreco 3-11
Loading
VICWRITER ............eo_ecereresnoccosrerorecorerorar. 1-10,2-4
text from cassette.........oeeeercordccoreroroororcerenare, 2-16,3-23
text from diskette..........co..weeorcocccocooresocorocecro 2-17,3-23
Margin setting........—e.—.eorerescororecreono.. 2-6,2-13,3-12,3-24,3-25
Memory expansion cartridge............reeeoecrcecccarereceroo 1-4,2-1
Mode
Keyboard (K).............eeeec0scescooraereoncocerecar 2-7,3-1,3-5
Primary (P).............. teeter, 2-5,3-4,3-20
Scan/Edit (Sasse i ee eee 2-6,3-3,3-11
Moving blocks of text. ... ovine iii iii ie tee 3-16
Overwrite Sub-mode.........._.eeeeeorcececrreorocrerverxo 2-7,2-10,3-1
Page width,setting........0.0.00.000040000 0000000000040 RER 2-6,3-12,3-25
Primary Mode. ............e.eeoccorecorrcroorrearececoroo 2-5,3-4,3-20
Printing teXt.........c_.—eoceooroorocrcrecor on aceooorerac., 2-13,3-24
Question mark................. eee ea 3-6
1-2
INDEX
Rapid page scanning..........._eec_ecsreeesoorscoescoocorerecerorere, 2-8
Saving text
on Ccassette.........ñeweoererceooccorecorcecoororerececarere, 2-14,3-21
on diskette........... _—e_er_eeceeonoccorerororecocracario,. 2-15,3-21
Scan/Edit Mode.............eoeocoooeQccoorccocacccerecrecee. 2-6,3-3,3-11
Scratching diskette files..............o-ewocercarcooocacoreerane 3-27
Shift text
to theleft..............ooeercwodocooeccorocrracaroaracace ae. 3-11
to the right... oii i i i ii i i titers anne 3-8
Tab position. ........e.e_r_e.eeeorovecrececreorecroceneccarer. 2-11,3-8
Turning on hardware......... _oe_eeeeococororccorroocecocer nee. 1-8
1-3
VICWRITER
VICWRITER is a word-processing program which easily enables you to
create, store, and modify text on your VIC 20 colour computer. VICWRITER has
many uses both at home and in business; some typical applications include:
Personal Letters
Business Letters
Reports
Memoranda
Mailing list labels
By using VICWRITER you can relieve the boredom of typing identical text time
and time again, whilst retaining the essential features of a typewriter. As you type
the characters appear on a line near the bottom of the VIC screen. When the screen
width is full the line moves to the left, just as the paper does in a manual typewriter.
You can specify the width of margin you require for your page by using one single
command, allowing a page width of as little as 20 characters per line or as many
as 80. |
VICWRITER also allows you to check that you are not running short of memory
ce to store your text so that, if need be, you can save it before the space runs
out. Text can be stored on cassette tape or on diskette so that you can recall it later -
and make amendments, or print it out using the VIC Printer.
This package also includes a comprehensive guide to using VICWRITER,
which contains a number of useful applications both at home and in business. Two
copies of the program are included, providing a back-up if required.
NOTE: VICWRITER requires the use of a VIC 1540 Single Drive Floppy Disk
Unit for the diskette-based package or a VIC 1538 Cassette Unit for the cassette-
based package. Both versions require the use of either an 8K or 16K RAM Memory
Expansion Cartridge, and a VIC Printer. These items are available from
Commodore dealers.
43467 0
© Landsoft Limited
© Commodore Electronics Limited |
All rights reserved. No part of this program or accompanying instruction manual
may be duplicated, copied, transmitted or reproduced in any form by any means
without the prior written permission of Commodore Home Computer Division
COMMODORE BUSINESS MACHINES, INC.
1200 Wilson Drive, West Chester, PA 19380
3370 Pharmacy Ave., Agincourt, Ontario, Canada M1W 2K4
Made in U.S.A.
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