🚀 go-pugleaf

>Any one else out there notice that since December 1st Microsoft does not offer
>free support anymore for their BASIC products (at least PDS).  Now you have to
>call either a 900 number, 800 number with credit card, CI$, or Genie.
 
I heard of Novell doing much of the same thing with their Network products, but
but so far excellent support for their DRDOS 6.0.
 
I have been courted recently by Spectra Publishing for their PowerBasic 3.0
which is to begin shipping at the first of the year.  Since Microsoft tells
me the upgrade path from PDS is Visual Basic, I have also been looking for
a path to take - either another Basic Compiler, a C compiler (know ZERO C) or
pursuing both.  I am tired of having carrots dangled in front of me and then
finding the carrot being moved so I don't plan on getting Visual Basic even
though it is reported to be a good product - I am gaining a bigger distaste
for Microsoft as each day goes by with their compiler and operating systems
tactics. (You might have guessed since I purchased DRDOS 6.0)
 
I have taken Spectra Publishing up on their upgrade offer and they were kind
enough to give me a competetive upgrade from PDS 7.1.  I do not have any
experience with the company, but their advertising keeps beating the drum
about support for their product.  (Note:  PcSig, Shareware Magazine, and
Spectra Publising are either one and the same, or owned by the same holding
corporation).
 
If you think you might be interested in learning more about them, you might
want to give them a ring at 1-800-245-6717 (ext 4114 per letter, but the
person who answered my call helped me).  I have turned on the Quik_basic
echo in Fidonet in hopes of learning more about the company between now and
the arrival of the package.  Oh, BTW, they do promise a 30 day money back
guarantee if not satisfied - price $149, upgrade for $59 from TurboBasic 1.0+,
PowerBasic 2.0+ (and in my case I went from PDS 7.1 for the upgrade price).
 
Eddie