Title: Buried Software Utilities in the Simtel and 'pcmag' Archives created by PC Magazine Note: as of 9/2006, you find this archive still on the net: http://www.umich.edu/~archive/msdos/util/pcmag/ W. Curtiss Priest, Director, CITS Center for Information, Technology & Society 466 Pleasant St., Melrose, MA 02176 Voice: 781-662-4044 BMSLIB@MIT.EDU Fax: 781-662-6882 WWW: http://Cybertrails.org Software Technical Note March 22, 2001 Buried Software Utilities in the Simtel and 'pcmag' Archives created by PC Magazine Introduction ------------ One of the best documented sources of PC utilities is a regular feature of PC Magazine. Yet, when these got archived in Simtel (and elsewhere), they were bundled with others in ZIP files with only the magazine volume and number, and single word descriptors of what each issue contained. As a result, some "leaked" out and became stand-alone utility entries at various BBSs and sites, but not very regularly. The same thing happened to authors who created multiple utilities and then published them to the net, again, as one large ZIP file. Those are even harder to find something useful in because there aren't often single word descriptors of what's inside. Solution -------- The Internet at this point in time -- the year 2001 -- does not provide free access to journal archive citations or full text. You can go some place on the net, such as www.zdnet.com, but the entire PC Magazine archives require a subscription. You can also go to OCLC or InfoTrac which contain citations and often full text, but you need, again, to subscribe to gain access. Some of us with college affiliation can access the "citation databases" as part of the school's extended library resources -- a "site license." And, some of InfoTrac (they have many "levels" of service) can be found at some public libraries. And, if you are lucky, you are allowed to bring a floppy disk, and "download" citations (and full text). Search Strategy --------------- Folk on the net are used to search engines where there is essentially "one field." But, in magazines and books there are multiple fields (author, publisher, date, etc.) So a search strategy at such a site (search strategies that pre-dated the Internet by 20-30 years) involves the use of both boolean operators and field designations. And, unlike free stuff on the net, part of the reason these resources cost more is someone often attaches very specific keywords or descriptors to the items, so that the search can be very specific -- obtaining articles you want and ignoring the others. The search statement at OCLC's Microcomputer Index database looks like: ((so: pc and so: magazine)) and (de= "utility program") not ((pt: software and pt: review)) These finds all utility programs in Pc Magazine except for those articles tagged "software review." This produced 163 articles. Without the removing of the software reviews, there were 1200 articles. But, OCLC coveres only the period from 1989 to the present. To fill in the gap for the earlier utilities (DOS utilities), the Infotrac database called Gen'l Reference Ctr (Magazine Index) was also searched. The search statement there was: Jn (Pc magazine) and Ke (Utility Program) not Ke (software review) not Ke (evaluation) This search was similar to the above, but notice that the field descriptors differ and I also excluded articles tagged as "evaluation." For the period 1985 to 1999 there were 72 articles (but over double that if the ones tagged "evaluation" were not removed). One other Oddity ---------------- Since descriptors are assigned by hand, the numbers of articles vary between databases with the same search strategy. In this case, when I also searched Infotrac from 1989 to the present (corresponding to the period in OCLC which produced 163 articles), the search only returned 75 articles for that entire period. And, more curious, some of the articles returned in Infotrac's smaller set were some not in the OCLC search. But, upon examination of obviously missing articles in the Infotrac search, I found that unlike OCLC, many articles were simply tagged "utilities" rather than "Utility Program." Running yet another search: Jn(Pc magazine)and Ke(Utilities) not Ke(software review)not Ke(evaluation)not Ke(Utility Program) produced another 456 articles. While some of these articles sometimes describe non-PC Magazine written utilities, there was no way to reduce the set via the search statement. So, for completeness, this document contains I. The 163 articles from OCLC II. The 72 articles from Infotrac from 1985 to 1989 III. The 75 articles from Infotrac from 1989 to the present with tag "Utility Program" IV. The remaining 456 articles from Infotrac from 1985 to the present with tag "Utilities" but not "Utility Program" V. A sample Simtel directory of DOS PC Magazine archives for January 14, 2001 ftp://mirrors.aol.com/pub/simtelnet/msdos/pcmag/00_INDEX.TXT VI. An expanded listing of the files named in those archives ftp://mirrors.aol.com/pub/simtelnet/msdos/pcmag/00_PCMAG.ZIP VII. Out-of-Print books about PC Magazine Utilities VIII. Programs listed in 1988 DOS POWER TOOLS How to use this document: ------------------------ Using your wordprocessor you can search on words and find articles that mention them. When searching on file names, you may wish to use case-insensitive searching as Simtel entries are mostly in lower case. If you use the shareware utility "LOOKFOR.COM" (curiously not in the Simtel archives) you can do proximity searching of this file. LOOKFOR, for example, will let you find multiple words that are close together. (If you want this program, just e-mail me.) Once you find what you want, you can then match the volume and number with the Simtel archives for files up to 1997 or for files later than 1991, you can access the ZDnet ftp site matching on year, month, day of the issue (see below). There may still be archives at Compuserve under their Computer Pro area ($4.95/mo. subscription). As for fairly recent files (last few years) Ziff-Davis does operate a free download site (at this time): http://www.zdnet.com/pcmag/downloads/index.html So, for example, the recent Petzold program (below) ClockRack can be found by entering ClockRack in the search box. The download contains the source, the .hlp help file, and the executable. It does not include the article about the program but the download page does contain an extended description of the program. Curiously, searching on LFNDir (below) not only turned up the program, but also "Utilities - 1998" and "Utilities -- F to L" But, if you try searching for these directly, they don't appear. These categories were listed under a blue banner called "Top PC Magazine Items" in the listings for LFNDir. And, if you search on "Utilities" you come across a "Utilities Guide" -- but this appears to be a search area for commercial products. If you try to go to "The Latest Utilities: PC Magazine Utilities Discussion" you must subscribe at $4.95/mo. And the "Top Downloads" only lists programs where the word 'utilities' is in the actual name of the the file. However, there is a short cut to "Utilities" on one of the bars (and in the frame to the left under "Pick a Category"): http://www.zdnet.com/pcmag/downloads/utilities.htm There is also a path to here labeled "Software Library's Utilities" from the "Utilities" search above. And here, a search on "Utilities" produces 57 hits from and area: http://hotfiles.zdnet.com via their use of the Thunderstone "texis" search engine. And in all cases various shareware utilities from other sources are mixed in with any written by a PC Magazine writer/programmer. There is no sense of inclusivity but rather "popularity" of the programs listed here. Alternatively, there is an FTP area for PC Magazine at Ziff-Davis: ftp://zdftp.zdnet.com/pcmag ftp://ftp.zdnet.com/pcmag The first directory and site was not obvious. When downloading a file from the web site, I noticed it was downloading from the above server. So I put ftp://zdftp.zdnet.com in my browser and came to the root directory. I presume 'zdftp' is a mirror site for 'ftp.' Here the earliest magazine archive is the year 1991. To some that will sound very old and to me that sounds fairly late. Most of the DOS utilities were written before this date. They give this listing example: /pcmag/1999/0323 = March 23rd, 1999 issue One disturbing problem. If I go to do an FTP search at http://ftpsearch.lycos.com/?form=medium and enter the file 2both.zip that I found under /pcmag/1991/0312, it does NOT find the file at the ZD site. The files in the MSDOS section of Simtel end in 1997. Some Windows utilities are mixed in with the "MSDOS archives." The citations here cover both MSDOS and Windows. I am always bothered when files are available on the net, by everyone relying on the originator, here, PC Magazine. Already the files prior to 1991 are missing from the site. What's to happen in another few years? Will 91-95 disappear? Or, worse, will access become restricted in some way? Comments to improve this document are welcome. ************************************************************************** I. The 163 articles from OCLC Record No.: 00PI10-060 Author: Seymour, Jim Title: A successor to Magellan, R.I.P.? Source: PC Magazine (October 3, 2000) v23 n5 p107 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Company Name: Lotus Development; SilverLakeTech.com Product Name: Magellan; PC Data Finder 5.5 Abstract: Describes a search for a file-finding program to replace the discontinued Magellan utility from Lotus Development Corp. Mentions that Magellan quickly searches and indexes the text content of the user's hard drive, generates a list of files containing a user-specified key word, and provides one-click entry into the file. Explains that Magellan was discontinued because Lotus did not know what to make of it and how to sell it priced at $70 to $100. Introduces PC Data Finder 5.5 ($99) from SilverLakeTech.co Indicates that it comes close to the functionality of Magellan. Cites PC Data Finder's support of multiple file formats, Boolean logic, and interface similar to Windows. Indicates, however, that price may pose a hindrance to some users. Concludes with the recommendation to take advantage of a 15-day trial offer. Descriptor(s): File Management; Utility Program; Indexing; Market Research; Disk Files; Document Management System ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PIO9-037 Author: Petzold, Charles Title: ClockRack tracks world time -- A configurable rack of clocks on your desktop eases time-zone confusion Source: PC Magazine (September 1, 2000) v19 n15 p131 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Product Name: ClockRack Abstract: Describes ClockRack, a free Windows-compatible utility that can be downloaded from the "PC Magazine" Web site. Defines ClockRack as a virtual array of clocks that is displayed on the microcomputer system's desktop. Explains that ClockRack helps users keep track of time in various parts of the world and eliminates the tediousness of mentally computing the time difference. Says that ClockRack can be configured as an auto-hide application bar so that it does not take up desktop space when not needed. Cites features such as display of any number of clocks, choice between analog and digital representations, large database of world locations to which the user can add location, and time-setting function based on National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Time Service Centers. Includes four screen displays. Descriptor(s): Clock; Realtime; Utility Program; International ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-253 Author: Petzold, Charles Title: Seize the moment -- ScreenSeize lets you capture and save any portion of your screen Source: PC Magazine (May 23, 2000) v19 n10 p127 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Product Name: ScreenSeize Abstract: Describes ScreenSeize, a free utility program from "PC Magazine." Explains that ScreenSeize enables users to save images from a computer screen and has been designed to meet all contingencies. Indicates that the Windows operating system has a screen-capture facility with limited uses. Mentions that in ScreenSeize, capture can be activated by a click on the mouse button, a hotkey, or a timer. Cites an Automatic Save option for capturing multiple images in sequence. Presents the choice to capture an entire screen, a selected object or area, a dialog box, or an application window. Points out that ScreenSeize works under Windows NT 4.0, Windows 98, and Windows 95. Says that the magazine's Web site contains ScreenSeize's programming information. Includes three screen displays. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Information Storage; User Interface ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-252 Author: Rubenking, Neil J Title: Windows start-up and shutdown screens -- Change the images displayed every time your PC boots and shuts down Source: PC Magazine (May 23, 2000) v19 n10 p123-124 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Company Name: Microsoft Product Name: Microsoft Windows Abstract: Presents a method for changing the images displayed onscreen during Windows PC startup and shutdown. Explains that Windows will display the Logo.sys file found in the root directory of the boot drive, which represents a bitmap in the correct format. Mentions that if Logo.sys is missing, Windows will extract the default startup bitmap from Io.sys. Indicates that Logo.sys is a simple bitmap file while Io.sys is a system file that should not be loaded into the Paint application. Says that Logow.sys and Logos.sys files store the shutdown bitmaps. Describes how to create startup and shutdown bitmaps using Paint. Suggests how to rename Logow.sys and Logos.sys in order to prevent their display. Elaborates on the procedure for restoring the default bitmap displays. Includes a sidebar and two screen displays. Descriptor(s): Computer Instruction; User Interface; Utility Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-229 Author: Gunnerson, Gary Title: Collaborative Web publishing Source: PC Magazine (May 23, 2000) v19 n10 p149 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Interwoven; NetObjects; Worldweb.net Product Name: TeamSite 4.0; NetObjects Authoring Server 2000; Expressroom Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to collaborative Web page authoring tools. Presents comparisons of three products from three providers on roles and permissions, Web site and page design, collaboration, and publishing. Products reviewed (and rating on a scale of one to five) are: Expressroom ($75,000) from Worldweb.net of Alexandria, VA (888,703) - 2; NetObjects Authoring Server 2000 ($1,395) from NetObjects Inc. of Redwood City, CA (650) - 3; and TeamSite 4.0 ($70,000) from Interwoven Inc. of Sunnyvale, CA (408) - 4. Explains that TeamSite stands out because of flexibility in letting users define their own roles, ease of dragging and dropping an existing Web site into it,integration with third-party Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) tools, and a function that lets multiple contributors split off duplicate branches to work on them separately and then merge them again later. Includes two screen displays and a product summary. Descriptor(s): Web Page Authoring; Web Tools; Web Publishing; Utility Program; Collaboration; Workgroup Computing; Client-Server Computing Grade: B C D ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-220 Author: Mendelson, Edward Harris, Jack Title: Design a great site -- Whether you need an interactive Web site or a basic home page, today's Web authoring products make it easier than ever to build... Source: PC Magazine (May 23, 2000) v19 n10 p134-152 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to Web page authoring tools. Presents a table comparing eight tools from eight providers on 15 criteria including interface, wizards, predefined Web effects, ease of complex Web site design, and support for JavaScript and Dynamic Hypertext Markup Language (DHTML). Products reviewed (and rating on a scale of one to five) are: Adobe GoLive 4.01 ($300) from Adobe Systems Inc. - 4; Dreamweaver 3 ($299) from Macromedia Inc 5; HomeSite 4.5.1 ($89) from Allaire Corp. - 4; HoTMetaL PRO 6. ($100) from SoftQuad Software Inc. - 3; Microsoft FrontPage 2000 ($150) from Microsoft Corp. - 5; Namo WebEditor 3.06 ($79) from Enova Software Inc. - 4; NetObjects Fusion 5.0 ($299) from NetObjects Inc.- 4; and Trellix Web 2.6 ($69) from Trellix Corp. - 3. Explains that Dreamweaver and Microsoft FrontPage received the "Editors' Choice" merit. Includes fifteen screen displays, three sidebars, a glossary, two tabl! es, and ten product summaries. Descriptor(s): Web Page Authoring; Web Tools; Web Sites; Design; Utility Program; Application Development; Client-Server Computing ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI06-049 Author: Rubenking, Neil J Title: Sweep away the scraps -- FindOrphans lets you locate and safely remove orphaned files Source: PC Magazine (June 6, 2000) v19 n11 p139 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Product Name: FindOrphans Abstract: Presents FindOrphans, a free utility from "PC Magazine" which scans all local hard drives and analyzes the dependency relationships among the files in Microsoft Windows 95, 98, NT 4.0, and 2000. Says that it can scan and remember the files on any number of removable disks. Mentions that when scanning is completed, it identifies orphan files and problem files. Notes that it provides a way to safely and reversibly remove orphan files. Points out that FindOrphans had been inspired by the earlier utility FDDLLs. States that FindOrphans addresses the situation in which support files remain on the hard drive after a program has been uninstalled. Declares that orphan files are support files that no longer have any programs interdependent with it. Says that orphan files take up hard disk space for no purpose. Includes four screen displays. Descriptor(s): File Management; Utility Program; Disk Files ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI06-015 Author: Clyman, John Title: Know your site -- Whether you're in charge of designing, coding, or the bottom line, don't assume you know everything about your Web site - until... Source: PC Magazine (June 6, 2000) v19 n11 p169-182 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: WebTrends; WebSideStory; Active Concepts; Sane Solutions; MyComputer.com Product Name: WebTrends Log Analyzer 5.0; HitBox Pro; Funnel Web Professional 3.6; NetTracker 4.5 Enterprise; SuperStats Professional Abstract: Presents a buyer's guide to Web management utility programs. Displays a table comparing five products from five providers on setup, ease of use, performance, automation, reporting, analysis, configurability, result value, and guidance. Products reviewed (and rating on a scale of one to five) are: Funnel Web Professional 3.6 ($499) from Active Concepts of San Francisco, CA (800, 415) - 5; HitBox Pro ($19) from WebSideStory Inc. of San Diego, CA (858) - 5; NetTracker 4.5 Enterprise ($995) from Sane Solutions LLC of North Kingstown, RI (800, 401) - 4; SuperStats Professional ($19) from MyComputer.com Inc. of Orem, UT (801) - 3; WebTrends Log Analyzer 5.0 ($499) from WebTrends Corp. of Portland, OR (503) - 5. Indicates that WebTrends received the "Editors' Choice" merit. Includes five sidebars, two tables, three diagrams, four photos, three screen displays, and five product summaries. Descriptor(s): Web Management; Web Tools; Client-Server Computing; Utility Program; Benchmark Testing Grade: A A A B C ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI04-236 Author: Sipe, Steven E Title: Size Windows with precision Source: PC Magazine (April 18, 2000) v19 n8 p157 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Product Name: WinSize Abstract: Presents the free WinSize utility program from "PC Magazine." Mentions that WinSize is for setting a window in the Microsoft Windows operating systems to exact dimensions, which helps in Web page building and in adjusting the monitor's aspect ratio. Mentions the absence of a window-resizing function in Microsoft Windows. Presents the initial step of positioning the mouse cursor on the edge of a window and clicking the left button to view the window's dimensions in pixels. Explains that the new dimensions will appear in the small yellow ToolTip status window. Says that it is compatible with Windows 95, Windows NT 4.0, and Windows 98. Presents the suggestion to use the WinSize Plus! pack to see the dimensions update continuously during resizing within Windows NT 4.0 and Windows 95. Includes three screen displays. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Windows; User Interface; Design; Web Page Authoring ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI03-019 Author: Brown, Bruce Brown, Marge Title: Manage Web page printing -- Tame Web page printing using your browser, Office applications and some handy utilities Source: PC Magazine (March 7, 2000) v19 n5 p115-118 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Company Name: Microsoft; Netscape Communications; Hewlett-Packard Product Name: Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0; Navigator 4.08; Web PrintSmart 2.0 Plus! Abstract: Discusses typical problems encountered with Web page printing. Cites losing content outside print margins, wasting paper when only a few lines print on a page, printing a whole page when only a portion is needed, and tying up a printer for a long time to print huge Web page graphics. States that both Internet Explorer 5.0 and Netscape Navigator 4.08 have printing shortcuts that can save time and paper and generate useful output. Instructs on specific printing techniques and options to use with Internet Explorer 5.0 and Netscape Navigator 4.08. Focuses on Web page-printing utilities that are being developed by printer manufacturers. Features the HP Web PrintSmart 2.0 Plus! ($30) from Hewlett-Packard and WebRecord, which is bundled with Creative Pro software from Canon. Contains five screen displays. Descriptor(s): Web Tools; Publishing; Printer; Web Browsers; Web Sites; Tutorial; Utility Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-066 Author: Cohen, Alan Title: Window dressing Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p234 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to third-party "Windows-dressing" utilities. Says that these utilities enable the user to customize the Windows user interface. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are: WindowBlinds 1.2 ($19) from Stardock Corp. - 5; Chroma 1.02 ($20) from Thematic Software - 4; Webshots Desktop ($0) from The Webshot Corp. - 4; Cool Desk 99 v2.85 ($12) from ShellToys - 4; NeoPlanet 5.1 ($0) from NeoPlanet - 5; Hotbar.com ($0) from Hotbar.com - 3. Explains that WindowBlinds 1.2 enables users to change the style and appearance of the interface in Windows and in applications, with hundreds of themes that replicate a certain look. Notes that NeoPlanet 5.1 offers a browser that works with AOL and Internet Explorer 4 or later. Includes two screen displays. Descriptor(s): Operating Systems; User Interface; Utility Program; Windows; Interface; Web Browsers ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-065 Author: Dreier, Troy Graven, Matthew Title: PDA tools Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p233 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to utility programs for personal digital assistants (PDAs). Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are: Sign-On ($19) from CIC (800) - 4; MagicText ($17) from Synergy Solutions (800) - 5; BackupBuddy NG ($29) from Intelligent Systems (800) - 5; Launch 'Em 2 ($10) from Synergy Solutions - 5; StarTap 4.5 ($10) from Thumbs Up Soft - 5; bUseful Utilities Pak 2.0 ($59) from Bsquare Corp. - 5; PocketFlash 1.0 Beta ($0) from Conduits Technologies - 4. Cites MagicText's collection of editing tools for the Palm platform. Cites BackupBuddy NG's ability to reinstall databases and applications on the Palm. Explains that Launch 'Em gives Palm users an intuitive way to organize applications. Explains that StarTap lets Windows CE users place shortcuts for favored desktop applications. Explains that bUseful has ten tools that will improve the Windows CE experience. Includes two photos.! Descriptor(s): Personal Digital Assistant; Utility Program; Mobile Computing; Hand-held Computer; Portable Computer; Editor; Backup ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-064 Author: Randall, Neil Title: Surfing & downloading Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p231 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyer's guide to utility programs that extend the surfing and downloading functions of Web browsers. Reviews 15 utilities, dividing them into four categories: download managers, bookmark managers, browser toolbars, and ZIP utilities. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale from one to five are: Download Accelerator Plus ($0) from SpeedBit - 4; Netzip Download Demon 3.2 ($0) from Netzip - 4; Go!Zilla v3.5 ($0) from Aureate Media - 4; URL Manager 2000 ($15) from Author Direct Shareware - 4; AcqURL ($35) from GT Technologies - 4; Backflip ($0) - 5; Clickmarks ($0) - 5; BookMarkBox ($0) - 4; Snippets.com ($0) - 5; EntryPoint ($0) - 5; PKzip 2.70 ($39) from PKWare - 5; WinZip ($22) from Nico Mak Computing - 5; ZipMagic 2000 ($24) from Mijenix Corp. - 5; FreeZip 1.4.8 ($0) - 4; CuteZip ($NA) from GlobalScape - 4. Includes one screen display and one sidebar. Descriptor(s): Web Tools; Online Searching; Information Retrieval; Compression; Web Browsers; Utility Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-063 Author: Rubenking, Neil J Title: System diagnostics Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p229 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to utility programs that do system diagnostics and troubleshooting. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are: AMIDiag 6.0 ($99) from American Megatrends - 5; WinCheckIt 6.5 ($49) from TouchStone Software Corp. - 5; SpinRite 5.0 ($89) from Gibson Research Corp. - 4; DiskMapper 2 ($49) from MicroLogic Corp. - 5; VMware 2.0 ($299) from VMware Inc. - 5; System Commander 2000 ($49) from V Communications - NA; Compuware BoundsChecker 6.2 ($549) from Compuware - 4. Notes AMIDiag runs in real-mode DOS to identify all kinds of hardware problems. States that WinCheckIt's QuickCheck routing runs a quick diagnostic of all system devices. Says when it detects a problem, it runs a wizard-style troubleshooter, which offers possible solutions. Notes DiskMapper provides unparalleled visual representation of disk space usage. Says VMware lets user run in multiple OSs simultaneously. Includes ! one screen display. Descriptor(s): Diagnostics; Utility Program; Troubleshooting; Enterprise Computing ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-062 Author: Randall, Neil Title: Modem user Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p227 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to utility programs that bolster the performance of modems. Reviews ten utilities, dividing them into two categories: dial-up networking enhancements and Internet Protocol (IP) optimizers. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are: DUN Manager 2.0 ($40) from Magenta Systems - 5; Ras+ Dialer 2000 ($17) from DigitalWeb - 5; Bob Connect 1.2 ($15) from Bobline - 4; ConnectPal Professional 6.40 ($17) from Pendulab - 4; Dial-up Toolkit 1.0 ($20) from Mayneware - 4; DU Meter 2.2 ($15) from Hagel Technologies - 4; SpeedConnect Internet Accelerator ($29) from CBS Software - 4; Internet Boost 99 ($55) from Bonzi Software - 2; Speedlane Internet Optimizer ($29) - 2; and Modem Booster 1.0 ($19) from InKline Global - 2. Includes benchmark test results. Descriptor(s): Modem; Utility Program; Internet Access; Accelerator; Speed; Input/Output; Optimization Compatibility: IBM PC ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-061 Author: Giebel, Thomas W Title: Web authoring Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p225 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Ipswitch; Watchfire; Mach5 Software; Bradbury Software Product Name: WS_FTP Pro 6.05t; Linkbot Pro 5.0; FastStats 2.69a; TopStyle 1.51 Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to Web page authoring utility programs. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are: TopStyle 1.51 ($50) from Bradbury Software - 4; WS_FRP Pro 6.05t ($40) from Ipswitch - 5; Linkbot Pro 5.0 ($400) from Watchfire - 5; FastStats 2.69a ($100) from Mach5 Software - 5. Says that WS_FTP Pro includes utilities that let users create scripts for automating the uploading of selected files on a scheduled basis. States that Linkbot Pro enables decreases the likelihood of broken links when adding new pages or updating outdated ones. Adds that it also catches many other common errors. Explains that FastStats rapidly provides a tree-view set of reports about a Web site's visitors, their surfing habits, and what brought them to the site. Explains that TopStyle eases the creation and design of Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) stylesheets. Includes one diagram. Descriptor(s): Web Page Authoring; Utility Program; Web Tools; Web Sites Compatibility: IBM PC Grade: A A A B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-060 Author: Randall, Neil Title: Windows 2000 tools Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p221-222 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to utility programs that are interoperable with Microsoft's Windows 2000 operating system. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are: PerfectDisk 2000 ($49) from Raxco Software - 5; RepairDisk Manager ($149) from Raxco Software - 4; Diskeeper 5.0 ($46) from Executive Software International - 5; ERD Commander ($249) from Winternals Software - 4; ERD Commander Professional ($324) from Winternals Software - 4; NTFSDOS Pro ($149) from Winternals Software - 4; Remote Recover ($299) from Winternals Software - 4; NTFS for Windows 98 ($49) from Winternals Software - 4; FastMove 2000 ($39) from TouchStone Software - 5. Presents five well-known utilities still undergoing development: McAfee ViruScan and McAfee WebShield SMTP from Network Associates; and Norton AntiVirus 2000, pcAnywhere, Norton Ghost, and Mobile Essentials from Symantec Corp. Includes three screen displays. Descriptor(s): Operating Systems; Windows; Utility Program; Interoperability; Compatibility; Enterprise Computing ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-056 Author: Schenk, Rob Title: Desktop migration; have it your way Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p215-216 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: AlohaBob; Miramar Systems; Altiris Product Name: AlohaBob's PC-Relocator 1.2; Desktop DNA 1.0; PC Transplant Pro 1.0 Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to utility programs for desktop migration. Presents a table comparing three products from three manufacturers on Windows settings and preferences migration, network settings migration, application settings migration, data migration, and management/logging/monitoring. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are: AlohaBob's PC-Relocator 1.2 ($49) from AlohaBob of Miami Lakes, FL (888, 305) - 3; Desktop DNA 1.0 ($245) from Miramar Systems Inc. of Santa Barbara, CA (800, 805) - 3; PC Transplant Pro 1.0 ($245) from Altiris Inc. of Lindon, UT (888, 801) - 3. Mentions that none of the utilities under review merit the "Editors' Choice" designation because all of them require in-person contact with the desktop PC during preparation for migration. Includes three product summaries, one sidebar, one screen display, and one table. Descriptor(s): File Management; Desktop Software; Enterprise Computing; Utility Program Compatibility: IBM PC Grade: C C C ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-045 Author: Alwang, Greg Title: Disk utilities -- Grappling with gigabytes Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p204-212 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to disk utility programs. Reviews ten utilities, dividing them into three categories: rollback, partitioning, and imaging. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are: ConfigSafe Desktop Edition 3.0 ($40) from imagine LAN Inc. of Nashua, NH (800, 603) - 4; GoBack 2.1 ($50) from Wild File Inc. of Plymouth, MN (612) - 5; SecondChance 2.0 ($69) from PowerQuest Corp. of Orem, UT (800, 801) - 4; PartitionMagic 5.0 ($69) from PowerQuest Corp. of Orem, UT (800, 801) - 5; System Commander 2000 ($79) from V Communications Inc. of San Jose, CA (800, 408) - 4; Drive Image 2.02 ($69) from PowerQuest Corp. of Orem, UT (800, 801) - 4; and Norton Ghost 2000 Personal Edition ($69) from Symantec Corp. of Cupertino, CA (800, 408) - 5. Gives GoBack, PartitionMagic, and Norton Ghost the "Editors' Choice" designation. Includes ten product summaries, three screen displays, three tables, an! d one sidebar. Descriptor(s): Hard Disk Drive; Utility Program; Enterprise Computing; Disaster Recovery; Disk Duplicator; Optimization ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-034 Author: Roberts-Witt, Sarah L Title: Filtering; return to sender Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p190-197 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Elron Software; Symantec; Content Technologies; Tumbleweed Communications Product Name: CommandView Message Inspector; Mail-Gear; MailSweeper; WorldSecure/Mail Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to electronic mail filtering utility programs. Presents a table comparing four products from four manufacturers on installation and administration, policy rule creation and customization, filtering controls, and message actions. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are : CommandView Message Inspector ($10,995) from Elron Software Inc. of Burlington, MA (800) - 4; Mail-Gear ($4,533) from Symantec Corp. of Cupertino, CA (408) - 2; MailSweeper ($8,251) from Content Technologies Inc. of Kirkland, WA (425) - 3; WorldSecure/Mail ($11,195) from Tumbleweed Communications Corp. of Santa Clara, CA (800) - 3. Awards CommandView the "Editors' Choice" designation. Includes four product summaries, two screen displays, one diagram, two sidebars, and two tables. Descriptor(s): Filtering; Utility Program; Electronic Mail; Security; Messaging Grade: B D C C ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-028 Author: Freed, Les Title: Corporate antivirus -- Germ warfare at work Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p176-186 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: F-Secure; Panda Software International; Trend Micro; Symantec Product Name: F-Secure Anti-Virus; Global Virus Insurance 24h-365d; NeaTSuite; Norton AntiVirus Enterprise Solution Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to corporate antivirus utility programs. Presents a table comparing four products from four developers on installation, configuration, management, updating, scheduling, notification and logging, scanning, and disinfection. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are : F-Secure Anti-Virus ($46) from F-Secure Corp. of San Jose, CA (888, 408) - 3; Global Virus Insurance 24h-365d ($40) from Panda Software International of San Francisco, CA (415) - 3; NeaTSuite ($39) from Trend Micro Inc. of Cupertino, CA (800, 408) - 4; Norton AntiVirus Enterprise Solution ($31) from Symantec Corp. of Santa Monica, CA (310) - 4. Notes that Norton AntiVirus received the "Editors' Choice" designation. Includes four product summaries, one diagram, four screen displays, three sidebars, two tables, and benchmark test results. Descriptor(s): Virus; Utility Program; Security; Enterprise Computing; Network Management; Client-Server Computing Grade: C C B B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-022 Author: Seltzer, Larry Title: Retail antivirus -- Be very afraid Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p164-174 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Aladdin Knowledge Systems; McAfee.com; Norman Data Defense Systems; Symantec; Panda Software Product Name: eSafe Desktop 2.2; McAfee VirusScan 5.0; Norman Virus Control 4.72; Norton AntiVirus 2000; Panda Antivirus Platinum 6.15.01 Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to antivirus utility programs designed for individual users. Presents a table comparing five products from five providers on ease of use, installation, configuration, scanning, scheduling, updates, and performance. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are : eSafe Desktop 2.2 (free) from Aladdin Knowledge Systems Inc. of Seattle, WA (888) - 3; McAfee VirusScan 5.0 public beta ($30) from McAfee.com Corp. of Santa Clara, CA (800, 972) - 4; Norman Virus Control 4.72 ($80) from Norman Data Defense Systems of Fairfax, VA (888, 703) - 3; Norton AntiVirus 2000 ($36) from Symantec Corp. of Cupertino, CA (800, 541) - 5; and Panda Antivirus Platinum 6.15.01 ($59) from Panda Software of Los Angeles, CA (800, 415) - 5. Says that Norton AntiVirus 2000 received the "Editors' Choice" designation. Includes five product summaries, eight screen displays, four sidebars, two tables, an! d benchmark test results. Descriptor(s): Virus; Utility Program; Security; Microcomputer System; Macro Compatibility: IBM PC Grade: C B C A A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI05-018 Author: Mendelson, Edward Title: Suites; not so suite Source: PC Magazine (May 9, 2000) v19 n9 p156-160 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: McAfee.com; Symantec; Ontrack Data International Product Name: McAfee Office 2000 PRO; Norton SystemWorks 2000 Professional Edition; Ontrack SystemSuite 2000 Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to suites of utility applications. Presents a table comparing three products from three providers on installation, support, interface, updates, diagnostics, uninstaller, registry, security, antivirus, integration, and disk maintenance. Products reviewed and ratings given on a scale of one to five are : McAfee Office 2000 PRO ($70) from McAfee.com Corp. of Santa Clara, CA (800, 972) - 3; Norton SystemWorks 2000 Professional Edition ($99) from Symantec Corp. of Cupertino, CA (800, 541) - 4; Ontrack SystemSuite 2000 ($60) from Ontrack Data International Inc. of Eden Prairie, MN (800) - 4. Explains that Ontrack SystemSuite 2000 received the "Editors' Choice" designation for providing the most thorough integration of applications. Includes three product summaries, three screen displays, four sidebars, benchmark test results, and two tables. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Integrated Software; Bundled Software; Enterprise Computing; Management Grade: C B B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 00PI01-203 Author: Seltzer, Larry Title: System savings time -- When the clock runs out on your PC, a system recovery tool can take it back to when things were working smoothly Source: PC Magazine (January 18, 2000) v19 n2 p37-42 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: WildFile; imagine LAN; DuoMark International; LANovation; PowerQuest Product Name: GoBack 2.1; ConfigSafe Desktop Edition 3.0; 9Lives 1.0; PictureTaker Personal Edition 2.0; Second Chance 2.0 Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to system recovery tools. Features five products from five manufacturers. Explains these tools are designed to repair a malfunctioning computer. Says they let users un-do anything that was done to a Windows-based system, even if Windows will not boot. Says they also help clean out a system when performance begins to degrade. Recommends GoBack 2.1 ($70) from WildFile Inc. of Plymouth, MN (888). Names it PC Magazine Editors' Choice. Also includes ConfigSafe Desktop Edition 3.0 ($39.95) from imagine LAN Inc. of Nashua, NH (800); 9Lives 1.0 ($49.95) from DuoMark International Inc. (310); PictureTaker Personal Edition 2.0 ($59.95) from LANovation of Minneapolis, MN (800); and SecondChance 2.0 ($70) from PowerQuest Corp. of Orem, UT (801). Includes six screen displays and two sidebars. Descriptor(s): Disaster Recovery; Backup; Utility Program; Microcomputer System; Software Tools Grade: A C C C B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI11-223 Author: Dvorak, John C Title: Inside track Source: PC Magazine (November 16, 1999) v18 n20 p85 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: INSIDE TRACK column mentions Intel's shift from Slot 1 to Socket 370 processing. Suggests that although Intel claims the speed limitations of the slot to be the reason for the change, it is nore likely to be a cost issue. Also reports on Intel's European public relations snafus, found to be quite politically incorrect. Says that Linux converts who complained about the high price of Windows are requesting their money back for unused preinstalled copies of the Windows operating system. Says the Fourmilab site in Switzerland features numerous Autodesk strategies as well as utilities for UNIX, Windows, and Palm computers, and observations of Autodesk founder, John Walker, including a diet plan and science fiction. Notes several changes in the flash memory market and says the Smart Media format has been abandoned by all but Olympus. Mentions the release of a seven CD-ROM set of the entire archive of Mad magazine. Descriptor(s): Microprocessor; Public Relations; International; Operating Systems; Competition; Utility Program; Magazines ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-078 Author: Roberts-Witt, Sarah L Title: Make Net work, not play Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p189-204 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: SurfWatch Software; Learning Company, The; Kansmen; Secure Computing; NetPartners Internet Solutions Product Name: SurfWatch@Work; CyberPatrol for Microsoft Proxy Server; LittleBrother Pro; SmartFilter for Microsoft Proxy Server; WebSense for Microsoft Proxy Server Abstract: Introduces a buyers' guide to corporate monitoring/filtering solutions for Internet access. Features five products from five manufacturers, each designed to make the Internet a tool, not a time-waster. Recommends SurfWatch@Work ($995, 50 users) from SurfWatch Software Inc., a division of Spyglass Inc. of Los Altos, CA (800). Names it PC Magazine Editors' Choice. Also reviews Cy Patrol for Microsoft Proxy Server ($1,395, 100 users) from The Learning Company of Framingham, MA (800); LittleBrother Pro ( 10 users) from Kansmen Corp. of Milpitas, CA (800, 408); SmartFilt for Microsoft Proxy Server ($3,250, 1,000 users) from Secure Computing Corp. of San Jose, CA (800); and WebSense for Microsoft Proxy Server ($5,000, 1,000 users) from NetPartners Internet Solutions Inc. of San Diego, CA (800, 619). Includes five screen displays, one diagram, two sidebars, and one scorecard. Descriptor(s): Filtering; Security; Internet; Utility Program; Software Tools Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible Grade: A B B B B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-077 Author: Seltzer, Larry Title: Going up, going down Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p185 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Ipswitch; TransSoft; GlobalScape; BulletProof Software; Sean Hu Product Name: WS_FTP Pro 6.0; FTP Control 3.0 Pro; Cute FTP; BulletProof FTP; Cupertino Version 1999-01-22 Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to file transfer protocol (FTP) utilities. Features five utilities from five manufacturers. Explains that Web site builders frequently use FTP clients to send the HTML and other files that make up a site to the server. Adds that software companies such as Netscape maintain FTP servers for users to find and obtain software. Notes that these tools are for those who use FTP frequently and are not necessary for just the occasional user, since the browser's FTP capability would suffice for infrequent use. Recommends WS_FTP Pro 6.0 ($37.50, direct) from Ipswitch Corp., making it the PC Magazine Editors' Choice. Also reviews FTP Control 3.0 Pro ($29, direct) from TranSoft Ltd.; Cute FTP ($34.95, direct) from GlobalScape Inc.; BulletProof FTP ($29.95, direct) from BulletProof Software; and Cupertino, Version 1999-01-22 (free download) from Sean Hu. Includes one screen display. Descriptor(s): Data Transmission; Software Distribution; File Management; Software Tools; Utility Program Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible Grade: A B B B B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-071 Author: Moskowitz, Jeremy Title: Essential NT utilities Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p179-180 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Winternals Software; Executive Software International Product Name: BlueSave; Diskeeper for Windows NT Workstation; ERD Commander; NTFSDOS Tools; Undelete for Windows NT Workstation Abstract: Introduces a buyers' guide to Microsoft Windows NT utilities. Features five products from two manufacturers. Explains that these utilities provide troubleshooting for PCs running Windows NT Workstation, noting that they are designed to handle the complexities of the operating system. Products reviewed include: BlueSave ($99) from Winternals Software of Austin, TX (512); Diskeeper for Windows NT Workstation ($50, street) from Executive Software International Inc. of Glendale, CA (800); ERD Commande ($249) from Winternals Software; NTFSDOS Tools ($89) from Winter Software; and Undelete for Windows NT Workstation ($50, stre Executive Software International. Includes two screen displays. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Network Operating Systems; Software Tools; Network Management; Operating Systems Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible; Microsoft Windows NT Grade: B B B B B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-062 Author: Haskin, David Rigney, Steve Title: Dice & dupe drives Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p173-176 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: PowerQuest; Altiris Product Name: PartitionMagic; RapiDeploy Abstract: Introduces a buyers' guide to disk utilities. Reviews two types of disk utilities: disk partitioning (four products) and disk imaging (four products). Explains that partitioning allows users to better organize data, make more efficient use of disk space, and run multiple operating systems. Recommends PartitionMagic ($70, street), a partitioning tool from PowerQuest Corp. of Orem, UT (800, 801), and names it PC Magazine Editors' Choice for the category. Says that disk imaging, or disk-cloning, tools takes a snapshot of an entire disk or partition and copy it to another disk or one or more PCs. Recommends RapiDeploy ($315, 25 users), a disk cloning tool from Altris Inc., a division of KeyLabs Inc. of Lindon, UT (888, 801). Names it PC Magazine Editors' Choice for the category. Includes benchmark test results and one sidebar. Descriptor(s): Optimization; Disk Drive; Utility Program; File Management Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible Grade: A A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-056 Author: Rigney, Steve Title: Get a safety (Inter)net Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p159-162 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Connected; ackup; Atrieva Product Name: Connected Online Backup; ackup; Internet FileZone Plus Abstract: Introduces a buyers' guide to online backup services. Features three services from three vendors. Recommends Connected Online Backup($19.95) from Connected Corp. of Framingham, MA (888, 508). Names it PC Magazine Editors' Choice. Also includes ackup ($99, per year) from ackup Corp. of San Diego, CA (888) and Internet FileZone Plus ($9.99, per month, 100MB) from Atrieva Corp. of Seattle, WA (888, 206). Explains that these services are a good alternative for backing up important data to a remote server, via the Internet. Says all three services use file compression to reduce the time requires to perform such backups; however, notes that it is still rather time-consuming. States that all are automated to some degree and backups can be scheduled to run unattended. Concludes that these services provide a good alternative for individual users to back up important data at a remote location. Includes one scorecard, two sidebars, an! d five screen displays. Descriptor(s): Backup; Utility Program; Internet; Remote Computing; Server Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible Grade: A C B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-050 Author: Mendelson, Edward Title: Service your PC online Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p156-157 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Trend Micro; Intel Corp.; Network Associates; Symantec Product Name: HouseCall; Intel AnswerExpress Support Suite; McAfee Clinic; Norton Web Services; Oil Change Abstract: Introduces a buyers' guide to online utilities services. Points out that such online tools can provide services such as virus scanning, online backup, and technical support. Points out that there are advantages in keeping files up to date; however, warns that certain tools are only effective if they keep constant watch over the system. Reviews five services from four vendors: HouseCall (free) from Trend Micro Inc. of Cupertino, CA (800, 408); Intel AnswerExpress Support Suite ($49.95, first three months; $9.95, each additional month) from Intel Corp. of Hillsboro, OR (888); McAfee Clinic ($5.95, per month) from Network Associates Inc. of Santa Clara, CA (408); Norton Web Services ($29.95, per year; or $3.95 per month) from Symantec Corp. of Cupertino, CA (800); and Oil Change ($29.95, per year) from Network Associates Inc. of Santa Clara, CA (801). Includes six screen displays. Descriptor(s): Diagnostics; Backup; Internet; Utility Program; Troubleshooting; Virus Grade: B B B C C ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-045 Author: Simon, Barry Title: Tune up your PC Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p141-150 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Symantec; Touchstone Software; Network Associates Product Name: Norton Utilities 4.0; Check-IT 98; First Aid 2000 Abstract: Introduces a buyers' guide to computer diagnostic programs. Features four products from three manufacturers. Explains that such programs can identify and repair software and hardware conflicts, prevent problems that can lead to crashes, and enhance performance by defragmenting hard disks and cleaning out junk files. Points out that many of these tools are now part of Windows and are not necessary unless the user is experiencing problems. Adds that they often go beyond what Windows programs can do. Names Norton Utilities ($50, street) from Symantec Corp. of Cupertino, CA (800) as the PC Magazine Editors' Choice. Also reviews Check-IT 98 ($50, street) from Touchstone Software of North Andover, MA (800, 978); First Aid 2000 ($40, street) and Nuts & Bolts 98 ($50, street) from Network Associates of Santa Clara, CA (800, 801). Includes three screen displays, five sidebars, and one scorecard. Descriptor(s): Diagnostics; Utility Program; Software Tools; Troubleshooting Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible Grade: A C B C ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-041 Author: Rigney, Steve Title: Defend your network Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p123-138 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Trend Micro; Symantec; Network Associates Product Name: NeaTSuite; Norton AntiVirus for Windows NT/NetWare; Norton AntiVirus for Exchange/Notes; Total Virus Defense Enterprise Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to network antivirus solutions. Features four solutions from three manufacturers. Says that the products protect every network component, including file servers, e-mail servers, and client PCs. Adds that all of the products are certified by the International Computer Security Association (CSA), which means that they can detect all of the viruses known to be ``in the wild.'' Recommends NeaTSuite ($1,145, 25 users; $1,680, 500 users) from Trend Micro Inc. of Cupertino, CA (800, 408). Names it PC Magazine Editors' Choice. Also includes Norton AntiVirus for Windows NT/NetWare ($499.96, 10 clients) and Norton AntiVirus for Exchange/Notes ($795, 25 clients) from Symantec Corp. of Cupertino, CA (800, 408); and Total Virus Defense Enterprise ($14, per node, 5000 nodes or more) from Network Associates Inc. of Santa Clara, CA (800, 408). Includes one scorecard, one diagram, two sidebars, two screen displays, ! and benchmark test results. Descriptor(s): Virus; Utility Program; Network Management; Security; Networks; Bugs; Enterprise Computing Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible Grade: A B B B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-031 Author: Seltzer, Larry Title: Defend your PC Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p111-120 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Symantec Product Name: Norton AntiVirus Deluxe Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to desktop antivirus software. Features nine products from nine manufacturers. Points out that the Internet has made the need for antivirus software greater, because it makes it easier to transfer virus files to a computer. Explains that the typical antivirus program scans files, drives, and folders for viruses, and monitors the system in the background against any unusual activity. Recommends Norton AntiVirus 5.0 Deluxe ($50, street, includes one-year of definition updates) from Symantec Corp. of Cupertino, CA (800). Calls it ``the most effective virus protection in an easy-to-use package.'' Says that it provides a simple and easily accessible interface and integrates with Windows 98's task scheduling feature, instead of adding its own. Names it the PC Magazine Editors' Choice. Includes one diagram, two sidebars, one scorecard, benchmark test results, and three screen displays. Descriptor(s): Virus; Utility Program; Software Tools; Troubleshooting; User Interface; Upgrade Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible; Microsoft Windows 98 Grade: A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-028 Author: Mendelson, Edward Title: Full-service packages Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p109 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Symantec; Network Associates Product Name: Norton SystemWorks; McAfee Office Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to full-service software utilities suites. Features two products from two manufacturers. Points out that these suites provide a collection of tools at a price much lower than if the user bought each utility individually and at the same time, provide a single installation and one main user interface. Notes that the suites provide antivirus, diagnostic, crash protection, uninstall, and other utilities. Recommends Norton SystemWorks ($69.95, Standard Edition; $99.95, Professional) from Symantec Corp. of Cupertino, CA (800). Names it PC Magazine Editors' Choice. Also includes McAfee Office ($99.95) from Network Associates of Santa Clara, CA (800, 801). Includes one scorecard and one screen display. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Virus; Diagnostics; Software Tools; Competition; User Interface Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible Grade: A B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI05-027 Author: Morris, John Title: The complete PC toolkit Source: PC Magazine (May 4, 1999) v18 n9 p100-204 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Introduces a special buyers' guide, ``The 1999 Utility Guide.'' Features individual buyers' guides to today's utility options: full-service packages, desktop antivirus solutions, network antivirus solutions, performance boosters, online utilities services, online backup solutions, Web research solutions, instant messaging, disk drive management options, Windows NT-specific tools, upload/download management, Internet access management, and filtering programs. Points out that utilities are a necessa addition to any computer, even one that is configued to exact specifications and explains that they are designed to help maintain a system's performance and productivity. Mentions the influence o the Internet on today's utility options, including online services, noting that they provide many of the same features traditionally available in packaged software. Includes 17 sidebars, three diagrams, six scorecards, 30 screen displays,! and three benchmark test results. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Software Tools; Virus; Management; Backup; Web Tools; Filters ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI02-216 Author: Brown, Marge Title: Utilities Source: PC Magazine (February 23, 1999) v18 n4 p143 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Intelligent Systems; Bsquare; Sierra Imaging; Communication Intelligence Product Name: BackupBuddy 3.05; bPrint 2.0; Image Expert CE 1.0; QuickNotes Pro 1.0 Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to utilities for Palm OS and Windows CE-based handhelds. Features capsule reviews of four titles from four manufacturers. Highlights BackupBuddy 3.05 ($15, street), from Intelligent Systems, distributed by PalmPilot Gear H.Q. of Arlington, TX (800). Says it is an easy-to-use backup solution for Palm devices and names it a finalist in the ZDnet Shareware awards. Also features bPrint 2.0 ($29.95, direct) a printer utility from Bsquare Corp. of Bellevue, WA (888); Image Expert CE 1.0 ($49.95, direct), a digital image management solution from Sierra Imaging Inc. of Scotts Valley, CA (887); and QuickNotes Pro 1.0 ($39, direct), a note-taking utility for keyboard or stylus from Communication Intelligence Corp. of Redwood Shores, CA (800). Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Software Tools; Backup; Printer; Image Management; Image Processing Compatibility: Palm OS; Microsoft Windows CE ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 99PI01-201 Author: Shaffer, Gail Title: Free (and nearly free) stuff and where to get it Source: PC Magazine (January 19, 1999) v18 n2 p100-114 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to free and nearly free software that can be downloaded from the Internet. Covers seven categories, including system utilities, Microsoft Office add-ons, Internet tools, communications tools, organizational tools, Web development tools, and games. Includes product requirements, price, Web address, and a brief description. Explains that users can keep freeware, trialware is free but crippled and may ultimately time out, and shareware programs nag users to register and pay for the software, adding that if users do not, the program times out after 30 days or so. Includes a sidebar, ``Tips on Web downloading and Storage,'' advising users to keep copies, Regedit (but only if they are proficient with Regedit), check for viruses, save order numbers or similar information that appears on the browser before downloading; and create a special folder on the disk for downloaded ZIP archives. Includes seven scree! n displays and two product source guides. Descriptor(s): Web Sites; Shareware; Web Tools; Games; Utility Program; Add-on ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI12-225 Author: Dvorak, John C Title: John C. Dvorak's inside track Source: PC Magazine (December 15, 1998) v17 n22 p89 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Company Name: Olympus; Sony; Kodak; Microsoft; Adobe Systems Product Name: Microsoft PhotoDraw 2000 Abstract: INSIDE TRACK column notes Olympus's introduction of the phrase ``filmless camera'' to promote its digital camera line. Claims that Olympus is definitely leading the way in digital camera development. Says that Kodak and Sony are expected to follow suit. Mentions the increase in competition in the photo-manipulation software market, including a ``battle'' between Microsoft and Adobe to offer the coolest product. Calls Microsoft's PhotoDraw 2000 fabulous, an easy way to create quick graphics for Web pages or presentations. Compares the competition among the image market to the once-great competition in the utilities market. Notes that this competition quickly ceased, as most users were buying two or more of these competing products. Descriptor(s): Digital Camera; Marketing; Competition; Image Processing; Special Effects; Utility Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI11-244 Author: Sipe, Steven E Title: Create a personalized start page -- Page1 gives you a starting point for accessing the World Wide Web Source: PC Magazine (November 17, 1998) v17 n20 p255-257 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Company Name: PC Magazine Online Product Name: Page1 Abstract: Discusses Page1, a downloadable utility for Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows NT 4.0 which provides a means for customizing one's Web start page. Explains that it is available for download free of charge from PC Magazine Online, through anonymous FTP, or by mail. Explains that it is a simple way to create a start page with one's own list of links. Mentions that the source code, written in C++ with Microsoft Foundation Classes (MFC) is also available for programmers. Provides step-by-step instruction on how to create a start page using the utility and notes that the process is fairly straightforward. Also points out that the style of the page, including the font and color, can be customized easily using HTML. Includes two screen displays and two sidebars. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Web Page Authoring; Shareware; Software Tools ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI10-215 Author: Brown, Bruce Title: The written word -- Edit and enter data faster on PDAs with these three handwriting recognition utilities Source: PC Magazine (October 20, 1998) v17 n18 p52-53 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Advanced Recognition Technologies; ParaGraph, a division of Vandem; Communication Intelligence Product Name: ARTrecognition; Calligrapher 5.1; Jot Pro Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to handwriting recognition utilities designed to update a Palmtop PC's data entry capabilities. Covers ARTrecognition ($60) from Advanced Recognition Technologies of Chatsworth CA (888, 818); Calligrapher 5.1 ($50) from the ParaGraph division of Vandem of San Jose CA (888, 612); and Jot Pro ($29) from Communication Intelligence Corp. of Redwood Shores CA (800, 650). States that all three products can be downloaded via the Web. Mentions ARTrecognition's ability to recognize English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese printed characters, and Calligrapher's ability to recognize printed characters and cursive writing, both separately and in combination. Points out Jot Pro's ability to decipher the Graffiti alphabet used with 3Com Palm devices. Includes one screen display. Descriptor(s): Handwriting Recognition; Foreign Language; Hand-held Computer; Web Tools; Utility Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI09-260 Author: Randall, Neil Title: Maintaining your Windows 98 system -- A set of very useful tools in Windows 98 will help you keep your system functioning at its peak Source: PC Magazine (September 22, 1998) v17 n16 p245-247 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Presents a discussion of the Windows 98 Maintenance Wizard and the System Configuration Utility. Says the primary function of the Maintenance Wizard is to keep the user organized to perform the tasks of checking the hard disk for errors, deleting unneeded files, and defragmenting the disk, by enabling automatic scheduling of the ScanDisk, Disk Cleanup, and Disk Defragmenter system utilities. Adds that each of these utilities is customizable. Notes that both the Maintenance Wizard and the System Configuration Utility provide a means to speed the system boot process by preventing programs in the StartUp folder from loading. Says the configuration utility offers a total of six tabs to control a different element of the start-up process. Concludes, ``System maintenance is never much fun, but it's necessary, and now we have very few excuses not to perform it.'' Includes three screen displays. Descriptor(s): Maintenance; Productivity Software; Operating Systems; Utility Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI05-090 Author: Knoblaugh, Rick Title: An antidote to aliases -- LFNDir displays long filenames under DOS, instead of cryptic aliases containing tildes Source: PC Magazine (May 5, 1998) v17 n9 p303-306 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Product Name: LFNDir Abstract: Describes LFNDir, a command line program that lets user view Windows 95 long filenames under DOS, and is available free for download from the PC Magazine Web site, or by mail. States that LFNDir's syntax and output closely match those of the DOS DIR command when DIR is executed from within a Windows 95 DOS box. Explains that LFNDir supports all DOS disk formats, but not the new FAT32 disk format introduced with Windows 95B. Notes that LFNDir improves upon DIR by allowing user to use wildcard characters in specifying pathnames, right up to the last path element. Attention is given to the FAT structure, wherein each disk has a fixed number of root-directory entries located in the sectors that immediately follow the FAT sectors. Considers subdirectories, and the layout of the long-filename directory entries. Explains how LFNDir determines which sectors are inhabited by the DOS file system structures. Includes two screen displa! ys, two illustrations, and one sidebar. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Directories; DOS; Windows; User Interface; Disk Files Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible; Microsoft Windows; Microsoft Windows 95 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI05-022 Author: Mendelson, Edward Title: Stroke saver -- MJMSoft Design's KeyText automates your most frequent keyboard and mouse actions Source: PC Magazine (May 5, 1998) v17 n9 p76 Pub. Type: Software Reviews Company Name: MJMSoft Design Product Name: KeyText 1.0 Abstract: Presents a very favorable review of KeyText 1.0 ($25), a keyboard and mouse automation utility from MJMSoft Design Ltd. of Edinburgh, UK. Runs on IBM PC compatibles with 500K hard disk space and Windows 95 or NT 4.0 or later. Explains that KeyText performs the four basic tasks of entering text, scheduling programs, pushing dialog-box buttons, and gathering text from the clipboard. States that user can store the text of such repeatedly typed objects as their name and e-mail address, as KeyText ``items,'' and have the program enter it into an application when user selects the item from Keytext's menu. Features include the ability to enter the current date and time anywhere in an automated text string, and the ability to launch the browser and open any Web site assigned to the menu or a hotkey. Concludes that KeyText is the most powerful, elegant, flexible, and unobtrusive automation utility available for Windows 95 and NT. In! cludes one screen display. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Keyboard Actuator; Keyboard; Text; User Interface; Input/Output; Mouse Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible; Microsoft Windows 95; Microsoft Windows NT Grade: A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI05-006 Author: Nash, Sharon Perenson, Melissa J Title: Utilities: E-mail extras Source: PC Magazine (May 5, 1998) v17 n9 p36 Pub. Type: Software Reviews Company Name: Simplify Development; GFI Fax & Voice; CS2Exchange Software; Expert Software; Sierra Solutions Product Name: MailRoom for Windows 4.0; Emailrobot for Exchange/SMTP; CS2OutlookExpress; Animated E.Mail; MailRoom for Internet 2.3 Abstract: Presents favorable reviews of five e-mail utilities for IBM PC compatibles, including MailRoom for Windows 4.0 ($79 per user) from Simplify Development Corp. (603), Emailrobot for Exchange/SMTP ($495) from GFI Fax & Voice Ltd. (888), and Whew! ($9.95) from WordCruncher Publishing Technologies (801). Also reviews CS2OutlookExpress ($25) from CS2Exchange Software (540), and Animated E.Mail ($15) from Expert Software. States that MailRoom is a document imaging application that can deliver browsable documents to an e-mail inbox. Adds, Emailrobot automates and manages company's corporate and Web site e-mail. Notes Whew! is an e search utility and CS2OutlookExpress converts e-mail data from CompuServe 3.0 to Microsoft Outlook Express 4.0. Sidebar reviews MailRoom for Internet 2.3 ($55) from Sierra Solutions (310). Says it provides a simple, elegant design, and support for long file names. Includes four screen displays. Descriptor(s): Electronic Mail; Utility Program; Web Tools; Search Engines; Conversions; Enterprise Computing Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible; Microsoft Windows; Microsoft Windows 95 Grade: B B B B B ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI07-078 Author: Rubenking, Neil J Title: Personalize your start menu with DecoMenu -- Now you can use a customized bitmap to decorate the Windows 95 or 98 start menu Source: PC Magazine (July 1, 1998) v17 n13 p313-322 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Explains how to use freeware utility DecoMenu to supplant aspects of the standard Microsoft Windows start menu with a customized bitmap. Says DecoMenu supports Windows 95, Windows NT 4, Windows 98, and Windows NT 5, although the latter two operating systems are still in beta testing. Explains that it allows user to decorate the Start menu with their own bitmap, replacing the six or seven icons for the main section of the Start menu. Says user can put company logo or brand home computer with favorite sport, pet, or hobby. Points out that the software has an easy-to-use, wizard-style, question-based interface. Notes the software displays a preview of start menu changes before they are actually implemented. Describes each step in the process in detail, and provides extensive information on how the software works. Includes discussion of display speeds, extracting bitmaps and icon images, and other functions. Includes two screen! displays and one sidebar. Descriptor(s): Icon; Shareware; Utility Program; Programming Aids ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI09-091 Author: Rubenking, Neil J Title: Explorer Notes 2.0: make a note of it! -- An enhanced, Windows 98-compatible version lets you add descriptive notes to files displayed in Explorer Source: PC Magazine (September 1, 1998) v17 n15 p269-276 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Profiles the latest release of Explorer Notes 2.0, a utility program for the personal computer that enables the user to display notes on every file or folder in a system. Notes the previous version was only compatible with Windows 95 and was incompatible with Internet Explorer 4.0. Says while the 2.0 does not display the notes directly in Windows Explorer, the user can view, add, or edit notes for a file or folder by right-clicking the context menu. Adds the program allows the user to review, edit, back up, and otherwise manage notes he or she has associated with the particular files. Notes if the user deletes, moves, or renames a folder in Windows Explorer, Notes will update the corresponding notes automatically. Adds the user can also use a file's associated note to locate a file on a hard disk. Includes two screen displays. Descriptor(s): File Management; Window Software; Utility Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI06-274 Author: Rubenking, Neil J Title: Freely manage file associations -- Freedom of Association finds and fixes your Windows 95 file-association problems Source: PC Magazine (June 30, 1998) v17 n12 p271-274 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Company Name: PC Magazine Online Product Name: Freedom of Association Abstract: Provides a detailed discussion of the Freedom of Association (free) utility program, a 32-bit Windows application written in Delphi, and available as a download from PC Magazine Online. Says the program runs under Windows 95 and Windows NT 4.0. Gives a thumbnail explanation of Windows file associations, and provides step-by-step instructions on how to get started with the utility. Offers a highly-detailed guided tour of the utility, including finding and fixing problems, executing an undo, reading extensions, and writing registry files. Notes the utility enables the user to review all registered extensions, review the file types associated with those extensions, clean up invalid entries, correct invalid associations, and add extensions to existing file types. Includes three screen displays and one sidebar. Descriptor(s): File Management; Utility Program; Problem-solving; Programming Aids ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI04-276 Author: Rubenking, Neil J Title: Create and solve Word-letter puzzles Source: PC Magazine (April 21, 1998) v17 n8 p227-230 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Product Name: PC Ladder Abstract: Explains the utility program PC Ladder, which lets you create, solve, and print ``word ladder'' puzzles. States that to solve such a puzzle, the user transforms a starting word into an ending word (usually an opposite) by changing one letter at a time, using a real word at every step. States that the mathematician Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (better known as Lewis Carroll) is credited with inventing this word puzzle. Says PC Ladder will solve most puzzles in a few seconds, but occasionally will take a little longer. Requires Microsoft Windows 95, NT 4, and NT 3.51. Says the author hopes the techniques discussed here will inspire other software authors to think about how other users interface with programs. Includes two screen displays and a sidebar. Descriptor(s): Puzzles; Games; Utility Program; Computer Instruction; Application Development; Word Games; Interface Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible; Microsoft Windows 95; Microsoft Windows NT ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI06-045 Author: Wolking, Gregory A Title: Avoid the DOS prompt -- MultiRen lets you rename groups of files from within Windows Explorer Source: PC Magazine (June 9, 1998) v17 n11 p269-276 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Provides a profile of MultiRen, an program that enhances Windows Explorer with a sophisticated feature called Multiple Rename. Says it runs under Windows 95 or Windows NT 4. Explains to access MultiRen, select two or more files from within Explorer, right-click for the context menu, and select Multi Rename. Adds MultiRen supports special commands that add sequence numbers to filenames, force uppercase or lowercase, and more. Explains how to use MultiRen, how to create a file list, rename files, sequence numbers and use templates. Offers a chart explaining MultiRen commands, including the functions of each. Concludes MultiRen is a simple but powerful program that demonstrates some useful Windows programming tricks. Contains one chart and one screen display. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Operating Environment; Software; Programming Language ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI08-076 Author: Sipe, Steven E Title: Organize downloads with HandsDown -- Create lists of Internet files for downloading at your convenience in batch mode Source: PC Magazine (August 1, 1998) v17 n14 p347-354 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Presents a profile on HandsDown, a free-downloadable utility program made available by the magazine. Says HandsDown requires Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows NT 4.0 or better, and the Windows WinInet communication routines, which come with Windows. Explains that it lets it the user use the Windows Clipboard to create a list of files for download from FTP or Web servers, then download the files all at once and save the list as a project file for later use. Adds, a command line option lets user schedule downloads using Task Scheduler in Windows 98 or System Agent, available with the Windows 95 Plus! Pack. Concludes that if the users download files on a regular basis, they might appreciate the convenience that HandsDown offers. Includes four screen displays. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Operating Systems; Web Server ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI04-033 Author: Rubenking, Neil J Title: Don't waste disk space -- Dupeless ferrets out duplicate files on your hard disk and helps you decide which ones to blow away Source: PC Magazine (April 7, 1998) v17 n7 p259-264 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Company Name: PC Magazine Online Product Name: Dupeless Abstract: PC TECH UTILITIES column introduces Dupeless, a 32-bit Delphi-based Windows application designed to find, and remove, duplicate files from a hard disk. Notes that this is a good utility to run once a month, to clean the hard disk and recover disk space. Claims that it works by comparing filenames and file sizes, and there is also an option to compare date and time stamps. Adds that it also allows the user to define exclusions, including specific folders or extensions. Explains how Dupeless was written in order to give it the ability to recognize several definitions of duplicates using an alternative to the typical MD5 algorithm. Also, recommends that programmers overview the ShFileOperation API for a simple information function. Includes one screen display, one product source guide, and one program listing. Descriptor(s): File Management; Utility Program; Windows; Programming Aids; Application Development; Tutorial; Algorithm ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI04-023 Author: Plain, Stephen Title: Utilities Source: PC Magazine (April 7, 1998) v17 n7 p131, 134 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Presents a special report on Java-based utilities. Includes six products from six manufacturers. Points out that unlike traditional utility programs, Java utilities are not designed for specific operating systems or applications. Explains that Java utilities provide specific functions, rather than enhancing performance. Notes that Java utilities focus on content management. Suggests that Java is a natural choice for Internet and intranet applications. Mentions that they have benefited from the introduction of JavaBeans for the creation of third-party add-ons, such as spell-checkers. Includes three screen displays. Descriptor(s): Java; Utility Program; Application Development; Intranets; Internet; Add-on ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI04-022 Author: Randall, Neil Title: Internet applications Source: PC Magazine (April 7, 1998) v17 n7 p120, 130 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide to Java-based Internet applications as part of a special report on Java applications. Features the following products: Dart-Pro, a Java-based e-mail program from NetAccent Inc., of Downers Grove, IL (630); Novita LifeLetter, an e-mail client that offers the advantages of Java without compromises from Novita Communications Inc., Santa Clara, CA (408); Ding! which can be thought of as an office in/out board with the immediacy of the telephone and the reach of the Internet by Activerse Inc., of Austin, TX (800, 512); VolanoChat a full-featured chat package from Volano LLC, San Francisco, CA (415); MerzScope a Java-based In utility from MerzCom Inc., Laval, Quebec, Canada (510); and NetResults a server-based application that indexes any text-base files from Innotech Multimedia Corp. of North York, Ontario, Canada (416). Calls these applications full-featured. Includes three screen displays. Descriptor(s): Internet; Java; Electronic Mail; Messaging; Utility Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI04-019 Author: Coffee, Peter Title: Java applications -- Although Java has received much attention, until recently it has been slow to find its way into mainstream applications Source: PC Magazine (April 7, 1998) v17 n7 p107-134 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Introduces a buyers' guide to Java applications. Features guides to products in four categories: productivity applications (seven products from seven manufacturers), financial applications (two products from two manufacturers), Internet applications (six products from six manufacturers), and utilities (six products from six manufacturers). Notes that the number of Java-based off-the-shelf applications is slowly increasing, and claims that the quality of these applications is improving. Reports mixed resul testing, with the Java applications proving to be efficient. However, their installation was frustrating and difficult. Argues that generally the Java applications do not offer the level of performance of their Windows counterparts. However, points out they have the advantages of portability, platform independence, lower cost. Includes one diagram, one sidebar, and eleven screen displays. Descriptor(s): Java; Application Development; Productivity Software; Financial Planning; Internet; Utility Program; Benchmark Testing ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-267 Author: Wolking, Gregory A Title: Read on-screen documents with ease -- Scroller lets you scroll windows automatically at the speed of your choice Source: PC Magazine (March 24, 1998) v17 n6 p259-266 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Presents a description of Scroller, a utility program for reading long documents on-screen. Without this program, users read a screen of text, stop reading, aim the mouse, click the scroll bar, relocate their place in the document, and start reading again. This program scrolls the window, line by line, at a rate specified by the user. This 32-bit applications runs under Windows 95 and NT 4.0. Describes how to install the application, its impact on external files, and how to uninstall it if desired. Describes the steps the author took in identifying tasks the program had to accomplish and the programming techniques used to accomplish them. Includes instructions on how to obtain Scroller online or by mail and tips on how to use it once it is installed. Includes one screen display. Descriptor(s): Software Tools; Utility Program; Tutorial; Programming Instruction; Reading ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-257 Author: Proffit, Brian Stone, M David Title: Do tasks in other OSs -- Windows 95 is the leader on desktops, but there will always be other OSs. Here are some utilities for them Source: PC Magazine (March 24, 1998) v17 n6 p221-224 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents capsule reviews of utility programs for OSs other than Windows 95. No "Editors' Choice" was named for any category in any OS. Programs for OS/2 include three antivirus programs, six backup programs, four desktop managers, four disk managers, four interface programs, and eight system utilities. For Windows NT there are four antivirus programs, five backup programs, three disk managers, four interface programs, and two system programs. For Windows 3.x and DOS there are 10 utilities but are not grouped by category. Includes one illustration and four screen displays. Descriptor(s): Operating Systems; Utility Program; OS/2; Software Review; DOS; Backup Compatibility: Microsoft Windows; IBM PC Compatible ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-256 Author: Beizer, Doug Anderson, Jennifer Mendelson, Edward Canter, Sheryl Title: Complete your Net toolbox -- Here we've pulled together a few more tools to help you make more productive use of your time online Source: PC Magazine (March 24, 1998) v17 n6 p213-219 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Product Name: BulletProof FTP 1.03; CheckMail 32 1.50 Abstract: Presents a buyers' guide, in tabular form, to a number of miscellaneous Internet utilities, including three floating toolbars, two Web outliners, a bookmark synchronizer, two Web graphics managers, 16 e-mail notifiers, 16 FTP utilities, and browser utilities in five categories. "Editors' Choice" honors went to CheckMail 32 1.50 ($12) in the e-mail notifier category and BulletProof FTP 1.03 ($29.95) in the FTP utilities category. No other "Editors' Choices" were announced. Includes one illustration, two tables, and six screen displays. Descriptor(s): Internet; Web Tools; Software Review; Utility Program Compatibility: Microsoft Windows; IBM PC Compatible Grade: A A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-246 Author: Morris, John Giles, Douglas Haskin, David Schneider, Michael L Title: Take care of other tasks -- From compressing files to enhancing printer output, this assortment of utilities will help you get the most out of your PC Source: PC Magazine (March 24, 1998) v17 n6 p163-174 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: PKWare Product Name: PKZip 2.60 for Windows Abstract: Presents reviews of miscellaneous utilities for Windows 95. Includes reviews of seven file compressions utilities, seven disk utilities, six data security utilities, three surveillance utilities, two multiboot utilities, two display utilities, three sound and storage utilities, and two printer utilities. Most of the reviews are very brief, and only one category - file compression - had an "Editors' Choice." The winner in that category was PKZip 2.60 for Windows ($49) from PKWare Inc., (414). This version of the program has an improved graphical interface. It is available in both 16- and 32-bit versions and zipping and unzipping can be done either with the aid of a Wizard or using a standard interface. The program is noteworthy for its interface and speed. It can read and extract BinHex, GZIP, MIME, TAR, uuencoded, and xxencoded files. It can also search for and sort files by name, size, and date. Includes one ill! ustration and 14 screen displays. Descriptor(s): Compression; Wizards; Encryption; Sound; Printer; Utility Program; Software Review Compatibility: Microsoft Windows; IBM PC Compatible Grade: A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-244 Author: Mendelson, Edward Title: View files faster -- These handy tools extend Windows Quick View and let you have a quick look at just about any type of file without installing the software Source: PC Magazine (March 24, 1998) v17 n6 p157-161 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Inso Product Name: Quick View Plus 4.5 Abstract: Presents reviews of five file viewer programs which allow viewing files without the requirement of launching the application that generated them. These programs also include some management features and all but one - which is specialized for CAD viewing - are priced below $60. Viewing a file requires only right-clicking on a filename in Explorer and selecting the viewer from a menu or opening a file from the viewer's dialog box. Most word processing or spreadsheet files appear with formatting intact and graphics files can be zoomed in and out. Users can also view files in text or hex mode. Includes a buyers' guide comparing features of the programs reviewed. Quick View Plus 4.5 ($50) from Inso Corp., Boston, MA (800, 617) is the "Editors' Choice." Includes one illustration, one table, and five screen displays. Descriptor(s): File Management; Software Review; Utility Program; Document Viewer; Computer Aided Design Compatibility: Microsoft Windows; IBM PC Compatible; 486-based PC Grade: A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-242 Author: Stone, M David Title: Back up your work -- There's no excuse for not protecting your valuable data. These utilities make backing up your work as easy as 1, 2, 3 Source: PC Magazine (March 24, 1998) v17 n6 p149-152 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Seagate Software Product Name: Backup Exec for Windows 95 Abstract: Presents reviews of four backup programs for Windows 95. Although Windows 95 includes two backup packages--XCOPY and Microsoft Backup - Microsoft Backup can restore files only to the drive and directory they came from and does not offer the capability of disaster recovery, and XCOPY requires a level of comfort with the DOS command line that not everyone has. Two of the programs reviewed allow users to treat a tape drive as a disk drive, so files can be read from tape using any program that can normally read from a disk. A sidebar presents a brief description of four online backup services which can store backup files on the Net and another sidebar describes Safety Net Pro ($21.95) a minimalist backup program that saves only essential files including the Windows registry and all .INI files. Backup Exec for Windows 95 ($99) from Seagate Software Inc., Heathrow, FL (800, 407) is the "Editors' Choice." Includes one il! lustration and five screen displays. Descriptor(s): Backup; Software Review; Utility Program Compatibility: Microsoft Windows 95; IBM PC Compatible Grade: A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-237 Author: Mendelson, Edward Title: Clean up your hard disk -- Too many downloads? One of these uninstaller utilities will safely rid your system of unwanted files and old applications Source: PC Magazine (March 24, 1998) v17 n6 p139-146 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: Quarterdeck Product Name: CleanSweep Deluxe Abstract: Presents reviews of six uninstaller programs which can clean up a system more completely than Windows 95's Add/Remove Programs applet. These programs scan a hard disk to create a complete database of files including a library of links and dependencies which tell them which DLLs and other files are required to run specific apps - a feature lacking in Add/Remove. When an app is installed, an uninstaller records the names of files added or changed and data modified in the registry and INI files so when the app is removed or archived, the program deletes only those files that were added or changed. An insert presents four reasons why one needs an uninstaller. Includes a buyers' guide comparing features of programs reviewed and a benchmark test. CleanSweep Deluxe ($60) from Quarterdeck Corp., Marina del Rey, CA (800, 573) is the "Editors' Choice." Includes one illustration, two tables, and four screen displays. Descriptor(s): File Management; Utility Program; Software Review Compatibility: Microsoft Windows; IBM PC Compatible; 486-based PC Grade: A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-236 Author: Simon, Barry Title: Solve PC problems -- Here's an array of tools and suites to help you fix what's ailing your PC or let you fine-tune your system for better performance Source: PC Magazine (March 24, 1998) v17 n6 p125-137 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: CyberMedia; Network Associates Product Name: First Aid 98; Nuts & Bolts Abstract: Presents reviews of seven troubleshooting utility programs and suites. Traditionally, such programs concentrated on hardware, reporting a diagnosing IRQ and DMA problems, but with plug-and-play they have shifted the emphasis to software troubleshooting. These programs address problems of unwanted files left by old programs, shared files getting lost, disk fragmentation, and others. A sidebar describes three Internet programs that deliver software updates and another sidebar describes crash protection features included in five of the products reviewed. Includes a buyers' guide comparing features of the programs reviewed. An insert gives five reasons why one needs a troubleshooting program. FirstAid 98 ($40) from CyberMedia Inc., Santa Monica, CA (800, 310) and Nuts & Bolts ($50) from Network Associates Inc., Santa Clara, CA (800, 408) ar "Editors' Choice" for beginners and power users, respectively. Includes one il! lustration, nine screen displays, and two table Descriptor(s): Troubleshooting; Utility Program; Software Review Compatibility: Microsoft Windows; IBM PC Compatible; 486-based PC Grade: A A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-234 Author: Morris, John Brown, Bruce Canter, Sheryl Mendelson, Edward Title: The 1998 utility guide -- For our annual roundup of desktop utilities, we tested 225 products to find the best tools to help you get the most out of your PC Source: PC Magazine (March 24, 1998) v17 n6 p100-224 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Abstract: Presents PC Magazine's annual roundup of the best of PC utilities, based on tests of 225 products "from antivirus to Zip." Says the essential toolkit will have an antivirus program, a troubleshooting program, an uninstaller, a backup program, and a file compression program (and recommends eight optional goodies). Lists the utility features already in Windows based on beta versions of Windows 98 and NT 5.0 Workstation. Includes a directory of programs tested. "Editors' Choice" honors are given in most categories. Program categories are: troubleshooting; antivirus; uninstallers; personal backup; file viewers; file compression; hard disk utilities; data security; multiboot utilities; other hardware utilities; Internet security suites, parental filtering, search and navigation, FTP utilities, and other utilities; and DOS, Windows 3.1, and OS/2 utilities. Includes 27 illustrations, 111 screen displays, 11 tab! les, and one graph. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Backup; Internet; Security; Troubleshooting; Diagnostics; Software Review ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI01-235 Author: Boling, Douglas Title: Changer2 livens up your desktop -- Automate changes to your screen saver, wallpaper, pointers, and desktop theme Source: PC Magazine (January 20, 1998) v17 n2 p243-248 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Provides a profile on Changer2 ($NA), a Windows 95 utility available for download from the PC Magazine Online site. Claims that Changer2 automates changes to the desktop, giving the desktop a different look every time the utility is run. Explains that it allows the user to specify changes to the wallpaper, pointer, screen saver, and desktop theme, giving it a choice to select from for the changes. Overviews installation and setup of the utility, including how to set the parameters via item selection. Also discusses how the setup works, with an explanation of how the source code works. Points out that this version is an update of a Windows 3.1, and notes the differences in the program. Includes one screen display and one product summary. Descriptor(s): Utility Program; Screen Savers; Window Software; Task Automation ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI01-217 Author: Morris, John Stone, M David Title: Second looks Source: PC Magazine (January 20, 1998) v17 n2 p80 Pub. Type: Hardware Review Company Name: Verity; SyQuest Product Name: Verity KEYview Pro; SyQuest SyJet Abstract: Presents a second look of two products previously reviewed by PC Magazine, and notes changes and/or their real-world performance. Includes the KEYview Pro ($49; $29, upgrade), a file viewer originally from FTP Software and now available from Verity Inc. Notes that it has been upgraded to 6.0 to address stability problems, and adds new features such as a hex viewer and support for the latest office suite file formats. Also spotlights the SyJe ($399), a 1.5GB removable disk drive from SyQuest. Reports that after several months of day-to-day use, it is still a relia impressive product. Adds that it is definitely one of the top performing removable drives, and notes that the company is working on a utility that will allow the drive to be recognized by Windows 95 and Windows NT as a fixed disk. Includes one photo. Descriptor(s): Disk Drive; File Management; Document Viewer; Removable; Upgrade; Utility Program ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-092 Author: Rubenking, Neil J Title: Screens: a screen-saver manager -- Schedule screen savers for holidays, special events, and days of the week Source: PC Magazine (March 10, 1998) v17 n5 p259-268 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Introduces Screens, a utility program which can be used to schedule screen savers by day of the week or special dates. This is a 32-bit program that runs under Windows 95 or NT 3.51 or higher. It can be obtained by downloading or by mail. Includes instructions on how to use the program overall as well as specific instructions on how to program it to display a particular screen saver on a special day. When the program does not find a special-event screen it uses the default screen saver defined on the "Default" tab. The program makes a list of available screen savers by examining all files in the Windows directory and System directory for files with the extension .SCR. Includes a brief description of how the program determines whether a given day is special or not and describes calculated dates and also describes some of the API functions used to store and manipulate screen savers. Includes one screen display. Descriptor(s): Screen Savers; Utility Program; Programming Design; Tutorial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-084 Author: Sipe, Steven E Title: Installation toolkits -- We look at five packages that give developers a quicker way to produce professional-looking installation programs Source: PC Magazine (March 10, 1998) v17 n5 p239-244 Pub. Type: Buyer and Vendor Guide Company Name: InstallShield Software Product Name: InstallShield Express 2; InstallShield Professional 5 Abstract: Presents reviews of five installation programs. Historically, most programs came with custom installation programs which required many lines of Visual Basic or C code. These programs were built for a specific installation and in many cases had to be rewritten for each new product and sometimes for each version of the same product. The programs reviewed here handle many of the common tasks such as checking for disk space and checking for write permission on target drives and also include an uninstall feature. Each of the products reviewed has strengths and weaknesses but all provide a core set of features required for building a professional-quality installer. A table summarizes the features of each of the programs reviewed. InstallShield Express 2 ($245) and InstallShield Professional 5 ($795) from InstallShield Software Corp., Schaumburg, IL (800) are the basic and advanced "Editors Choice" selections, respective! ly. Includes one illustration, one table, and six screen displays. Descriptor(s): Programming Aids; Utility Program; Software Review Compatibility: IBM PC Compatible; Microsoft Windows Grade: A A ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI03-010 Author: Beizer, Doug Title: Return to sender Source: PC Magazine (March 10, 1998) v17 n5 p40 Pub. Type: Product Announcement Company Name: America Online; Omron Advanced Systems Product Name: Mail Controls; MailJail Abstract: Announces two e-mail utility programs for filtering out unwanted junk e-mail. Mail Controls (free) from America Online (800) lets AOL subscribers set mail acceptance levels to receive e-mail from AOL members only, members plus specified domains or addresses, or all sources. MailJail ($24.95 download, $29.95 on CD) from Omron Advanced Systems (408) has a knowledge base of more than 400 rules with new filtering rules added monthly using MailJail's online service. It can check whether a message comes from a frequent correspondent or a known spammer, in which case it is blocked. The program learns the user's e-mail preferences before identifying and filtering unwanted mail. It checks the entire content of each message to ensure that no junk mail slips through. Includes two screen displays. Descriptor(s): Electronic Mail; Filtering; Utility Program; Spamming ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI02-279 Author: Sipe, Steven E Title: Download Web sites -- Avoid waiting for individual Web pages to load: SiteSnagger downloads entire Web sites Source: PC Magazine (February 24, 1998) v17 n4 p229-232 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Presents SiteSnagger, a utility program for downloading Web sites. The downloaded sites are displayed in a tree display with a Table of Contents, and are available for browsing offline. SiteSnagger can be configured by specifying the number of levels to download, the number of pages to download (which overrides the number of levels when it is reached), and limiting links to other servers. The program generates a log of every file it downloads and of the level of each item. It is a resource-intensive utility - for large sites it will require as much as 2MB free memory and or course hard disk requirements can also be heavy. Provides a brief description of the inner workings of SiteSnagger, tells how the program extracts HTML tags, and how it navigates links. Provides information on how to obtain the files for this and other programs in the PC Tech articles from the Net or by mail or fax. Descriptor(s): Web Sites; Utility Program; Tutorial ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI02-081 Author: Deurbrouck, John Title: The ins and the outs -- InOutBd lets every employee in your company keep track of who's in and who's out Source: PC Magazine (February 10, 1998) v17 n3 p257-262 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Abstract: Presents a utility program, InOutBd, a small Web server which can be used to keep track of which employees are in or out of the office. Anyone with a PC and a TCP/IP network can use this program to maintain a personal in/out board. The program is available for download from PC Magazine or by mail and the source code is also available. Describes how to set up the program and how to use it once it is operational. Provides instructions on how to customize its display and presents a brief discussion of the security aspects of the program which, although it can connect to outside computers, makes only very limited information available. Concludes with a brief discussion of methods of handling HTTP with Microsoft Foundation Classes. Some Web servers will require more complex status boards, but for simple requests with simple responses, InOutBd will be useful. Includes five screen displays. Descriptor(s): Web Server; TCP/IP; Utility Program; Tutorial; Window Software; Human Resources ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI02-073 Author: Buehler, Steve Title: Bits and pieces Source: PC Magazine (February 10, 1998) v17 n3 p226 Pub. Type: Articles, News & Columns Company Name: Executive Software; Raxco Product Name: Diskeeper; PerfectDisk NT Abstract: MULTIPLE ACCESS column discusses defragmentation tools. Historically servers had no defragging tools - to recover lost disk space one unloaded the entire file system to tape and reloaded it. Microsoft has incorporated defragmentation in the Windows Plus! pack but much of corporate America has avoided Windows 95. Two companies have recently introduced defragmenters. Executive Software has introduced Diskeeper in versions for NT Server and NT Workstation. A Lite version will be bundled with Windows NT 5.0. Raxco has introduced PerfectDisk NT which also does standard defragmentation but also has an optimization feature which watches how the user works and which files are accessed most often. It moves these files near to Windows NT's Master File Table to minimize head-disk movement. Defragging is not a necessity but it does guarantee that the hard disk throughput will not slow down over time. Descriptor(s): Hard Disk Drive; File Management; Utility Program; Product Announcement Compatibility: Microsoft Windows; IBM PC Compatible ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI02-011 Author: Beizer, Doug Title: Better your browser Source: PC Magazine (February 10, 1998) v17 n3 p40 Pub. Type: Product Announcement Company Name: Ethos Software; Primenet; Webcom Product Name: Ethosware 2.5; NetLaunch 3.13a; Auto WinNet95 4.1 Abstract: Announces three new browser utilities. Ethosware 2.5 ($24.95) from Ethos Software Corp. (617) allows users to cut and paste the addresses of files desired for download. It connects to the Net, downloads the files at the scheduled times, and then closes the connection. It offers diagnostic and repair tools to correct errors due to protocol, modem, dialing, and Internet connections. NetLaunch 3.13a from Primenet can launch or close e-mail, browse and news services when the user connects or disconnects from th Net. Programs can be added by dragging their shortcuts into the launch-list window. AutoWinNet95 4.1 ($29.95) from Webcom (800) can automate dial-up, file transfers, Web navigation, and e-mail according to a preset schedule. It supports an unlimited number of mailboxes and supports advanced formatting. Includes two screen displays. Descriptor(s): Web Browsers; Utility Program; Scheduling; Electronic Mail ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Record No.: 98PI02-007 Author: Nash, Sharon Title: Software shopping online Source: PC Magazine (February 10, 1998) v17 n3 p36 Pub. Type: Product Announcement Product Name: Ch