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Archive-name: os2-faq/user/part2
Version: 2.1A
  
[Part 2 of 4]

DAT) model is $650.  All will work with GTAK tape backup software [See 
(3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] when attached to an OS/2 supported 
SCSI adapter.  

o Irwin Accutrack Tape Drive with EZTape/PM.  Several dealers offer the 
Irwin Accutrack series of tape drives bundled with EZTape for DOS, Windows, 
and OS/2.  Prices start at about $200.  

o 16550AFN Buffered UART Serial Port Adapters.  Improves high speed serial 
communications performance.  Price:  $35 for a two port adapter from 
Zero-One Networking (phone 714-693-0808).  Ask about adapters with parallel 
ports.  

o Four Port 16550AFN Buffered UART Serial Adapter.  The STB 4-COM adapter 
is available for $119 delivered by calling 800-735-5266 Ext.  64.  The 
16-bit STB adapter provides four buffered serial ports, each with an 
independently selectable interrupt and address.  IRQs above 7 are supported 
for each port.  Up to two of these adapters may be installed in the same 
system (for up to eight buffered serial ports).  Four six inch 8-pin DIN to 
DB9 male converter cables are supplied.  Fifteen month manufacturer's 
warranty and free technical support from STB.  

o Creative Labs SoundBlaster.  Original (Revision 2.0), Pro, and 16ASP 
models are available from many suppliers and provide audio output for OS/2 
multimedia applications.  Prices range from about $90 to $250.  

o IBM M-Audio Adapter.  Available in either AT bus or Microchannel models 
for the same price.  Provides compact disc quality audio reproduction and 
recording capabilities under OS/2.  Price:  $235 from IBM Direct (phone 
800-IBM-2YOU) or $222 from IBM Educational Sales (phone 800-222-7254).  

o MediaVision ProAudio Spectrum 16.  The PAS 16, as it is known, offers 
compact disc quality audio reproduction and recording capabilities and an 
on board SCSI port (for CD-ROM drives and other peripherals).  Available 
from several dealers for about $150.  The Logitech SoundMan 16 is identical 
to the PAS 16 (and sometimes less expensive), although it does not include 
a SCSI port.  MediaVision's new ProAudio Studio, a more expensive adapter, 
is also supported under OS/2 2.1.  All three are AT bus adapters.  
  
  
  Related information: 
  
  (2.1) Hardware Requirements 
  (2.2) SuperVGA Support 
  (2.4) COM3 and COM4 Support 
  (2.6) More Than 16 MB RAM 
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
  

(2.6) More Than 16 MB RAM

 Can I use more than 16 MB of RAM? 

OS/2 2.1 will address all the RAM in your system.  If the BIOS recognizes 
the memory, OS/2 will find it and use it.  

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

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

Suffice it to say that, regardless of your present hardware, OS/2 will take 
advantage of it as best it can.  However, if you are planning new hardware 
purchases, you may wish to take this particular hardware design limitation 
into account.  Specifically, if you plan to install more than 16 MB of RAM 
in your system, either choose a 32-bit hard disk adapter (Microchannel or 
EISA, for example) or choose an AT bus adapter which does not utilize DMA 
for disk access (a standard IDE adapter, an Adaptec 152x series SCSI 
adapter, or a Future Domain SCSI adapter, for example).  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (2.5) Specific Hardware Recommendations 
 

(2.7) Device Driver List

 What device drivers are available that aren't included with OS/2? 

(This section will be completed in a future release of the OS/2 Frequently 
Asked Questions List.)  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
 

(3.1) Applications

 What applications are available for OS/2? 

In addition to the thousands of applications available for DOS and Windows, 
there are a couple thousand OS/2-specific applications representing almost 
every category imaginable.  

The DOS/Windows applications with 16-bit OS/2-specific counterparts 
include:  

  o Aldus 

     - Pagemaker 

  o AutoDesk 

     - AutoCAD 

  o Borland 

     - Sidekick 
     - Paradox 
     - Brief 

  o Corel Systems 

     - CorelDraw 

  o DeScribe 

     - Word Publisher 

  o FutureSoft 

     - DynaComm 

  o Hilgraeve 

     - HyperAccess/5 

  o IBM 

     - DisplayWrite 
     - DisplayWrite Composer 

  o Informix 

     - Wingz 

  o JP Software 

     - 4OS2 (4DOS for OS/2) 

  o Lotus Development 

     - 1-2-3 
     - Freelance Graphics 
     - Notes 
     - cc:Mail 

  o Micrographx 

     - Designer 

  o Microrim 

     - R:Base 

  o Microsoft 

     - Word 
     - Excel 
     - Multiplan 
     - Mail 

  o New England Software 

     - Graph-in-the-Box 

  o Omen 

     - Pro-YAM 

  o Oracle 

     - Database 

  o SAS Institute 

     - SAS 

  o SemWare 

     - QEdit 

  o SPSS Inc. 

     - SPSS 

  o Ventura 

     - Publisher 

  o WordPerfect Corp. 

     - WordPerfect 
  
and many others.  In some cases DOS and OS/2 versions ship together (e.g.  
Microsoft Word 5.5, Lotus 1-2-3 3.0, Wingz).  

OS/2 2.1 provides an attractive, 32-bit, Workplace Shell environment for 
new applications; many do not have DOS/Windows predecessors.  This new 
class of 32-bit applications will (or does) include:  

  o Borland 

     - ObjectVision 
     - C++ 

  o Computer Associates 

     - ACCPAC Simply Accounting 
     - Compete! 
     - Consensus 
     - dBFast 
     - Realizer 
     - SuperProject 
     - Telon/PWS 
     - Textor 
     - Unicenter 

  o Corel Systems 

     - CorelDraw 

  o DeScribe 

     - Word Publisher 

  o Hilgraeve 

     - HyperAccess/PM 

  o Lotus Development 

     - 1-2-3 
     - Freelance Graphics 
     - Notes 
     - cc:Mail 
     - Ami Pro 

  o Microformatic 

     - Fax/PM 

  o Micrographx 

     - Draw 
     - Designer 
     - (All others) 

  o Microrim 

     - R:Base 

  o Proportional Software 

     - DCF/2 (disk compression) 

  o SofNet 

     - Faxworks 

  o Spinnaker 

     - PFS:Works 

  o Stac Electronics 

     - Stacker 

  o Symantec 

     - Norton Commander 
     - Zortech C++ 

  o Vienna Software Publishing 

     - N/Joy: The World of Objects 

  o WordPerfect Corp. 

     - WordPerfect 
     - Office 
     - Presentations 

  o ZSoft (WordStar) 

     - Publisher's Paintbrush 
  
and many more.  Over 1200 new 32-bit OS/2 2.1 applications have been 
released to date.  

OS/2-specific versions of popular utilities include ZIP/UNZIP, ARC, LHA, 
Zoo 2.1, many GNU tools, tens of different file finders, desktop clocks, 
calculators, and many more.  Programming languages include Assembler, C++, 
COBOL, Pascal, C, Fortran, BASIC, REXX (included with every copy of OS/2 
2.1), Icon, Smalltalk, Modula-2, LISP, Ada, Prolog, Forth, and still more, 
from vendors such as Borland, Clarion, Watcom, Symantec (through its 
Zortech subsidiary), IBM, Microway, and many more.  Two free ports of the 
32-bit GNU C/C++ compiler, GCC/2 and EMX/GCC, are available [See (3.2) 
Shareware and Freeware Sources].  Fortran to C (f2c) and Pascal to C (p2c) 
translators are also available.  (See the Programmer's Edition of this List 
for more information.)  

The IBM PC Company BBS (404-835-6600) provides an online product database 
of OS/2-specific software.  A directory of OS/2 applications, IBM document 
number G362-0029, is published by Graphics Plus (phone 800-READ-OS2).  The 
OS/2 Development Tools Guide is available free of charge by calling the IBM 
Developer Assistance Program at (407) 982-6408.  TINF [See (3.2) Shareware 
and Freeware Sources] is an applications directory (for use with the OS/2 
VIEW facility).  

  
  Related information: 
  
  (1.3) DOS and Windows Compatibility 
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
  

(3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources

 Where can I obtain OS/2 shareware and freeware? 

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

On the Internet, the Usenet conference comp.binaries.os2 carries OS/2 
software.  And several sites are available via anonymous ftp.  (No ftp?  
Send a single line message with the word HELP to bitftp@pucc.bitnet or 
ftpmail@decwrl.dec.com to learn about ftp mail servers.)  Some are (with 
Internet node numbers and subdirectories):  

 
  ftp-os2.cdrom.com              192.153.46.254   /os2
 
  ftp-os2.nmsu.edu               128.123.35.151   pub/os2
 
  software.watson.ibm.com        129.34.139.5     pub/os2
 
  mtsg.ubc.ca                    137.82.27.1      os2:
 
  access.usask.ca                128.233.3.1      pub/archives/os2
 
  luga.latrobe.edu.au            131.172.2.2      pub/os2
 
  funic.funet.fi                 128.214.6.100    pub/os2
 
  pdsoft.lancs.ac.uk             148.88.64.2      micros/ibmpc/os2
 
  ftp.uni-stuttgart.de           129.69.1.12      soft/os2
 
  src.doc.ic.ac.uk               146.169.2.1      computing/systems/os2
 
  zaphod.cs.uwindsor.ca          137.207.224.3    pub/local/os2
 
  ftp.luth.se                    130.240.18.2     pub/pc/os2
 
  ftp.informatik.tu-muenchen.de  131.159.0.198    /pub/comp/os/os2
 
 
The ftp-os2.nmsu.edu library is available on CD-ROM from Walnut Creek 
(phone 510-947-5996).  EMS (phone 301-924-3594) offers an OS/2 
shareware/freeware library on diskette.  

Other sources include CompuServe (FIND OS/2) and archive servers (send a 
single line message with the word HELP to listserv@cc1.kuleuven.ac.be or 
mail-server@rus.uni-stuttgart.de for more information, or use ftp).  
TRICKLE servers are also available outside the United States.  For more 
information on TRICKLE services, including automatic file subscription 
procedures, send a single line message with the word HELP to any one of the 
following sites nearest you:  

  Country       Address 
  Austria       TRICKLE@AWIWUW11.BITNET 
  Belgium       TRICKLE@BANUFS11.BITNET 
  Colombia      TRICKLE@UNALCOL.BITNET 
  France        TRICKLE@FRMOP11.BITNET 
  Germany       TRICKLE@DEARN.BITNET 
  Israel        TRICKLE@TAUNIVM.BITNET 
  Italy         TRICKLE@IMIPOLI.BITNET 
  Netherlands   TRICKLE@HEARN.BITNET 
  Sweden        TRICKLE@SEARN.BITNET 
  Turkey        TRICKLE@TREARN.BITNET 
                TRICKLE@TRMETU.BITNET 
  
IBM has been releasing freely distributable employee written software (e.g.  
Visual REXX) and OS/2 patches to these sites.  

  
  Related information: 
  
  (3.3)  "Must Have" Shareware and Freeware 
  (3.5)  Running a BBS Under OS/2
  (3.7)  Viruses
  (4.6)  Corrective Service Diskettes 
  (4.11) OS/2 BBSes 
  

(3.3) "Must Have" Shareware and Freeware

 What are the "must have" shareware and freeware titles? 

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

o OS2Exec (OS2EXEC.ZIP):  Start any OS/2 program from any OS/2 DOS session.  

o Worldwide OS/2 BBS List (OS2WORLD.ZIP):  List of BBSes around the world 
where OS/2 is the predominant area of discussion and where large OS/2 
software archives are held.  

o 4OS2 Version 1.1 (4OS232.ZIP):  A replacement command interpreter from JP 
Software.  A must for command line users.  

o StartD (STARTD.ZIP):  Provides the capability to start DOS sessions with 
specific, custom DOS Settings from the OS/2 command line.  

o Icon Extractor (ICON_160.ZIP):  Converts Windows icons to OS/2 format.  
Icons can be extracted from Windows executables.  Assigns icons via drag 
and drop.  Deletes undeleteable objects.  

o Mr.  File/PM (MRFILEPM.ZIP):  File manager and program launcher.  

o Workplace Shell Backup (WPSBK7.ZIP):  Backup the OS/2 desktop.  

o Extended Attributes Backup (EABK202.ZIP):  Saves extended attributes so 
that non-EA aware backup software preserves all necessary OS/2 data.  

o Visual REXX (VREXX2.ZIP):  Provides the ability to write REXX programs 
which use Presentation Manager windows, scroll bars, menus, and other 
features.  

o Icon Programming Language (ICON88.ZIP):  A simple yet powerful 
programming language for many platforms, including OS/2.  Supports 
graphical applications.  

o EMX/GCC (various):  Powerful C/C++ compiler with programming aids and 
enhanced libraries.  

o Enhanced Editor Toolkit and Accessories (various):  Add-ons to the 
Enhanced Editor (EPM) which provide editor macro capabilities, 
documentation, and various accessories.  

o INI Maintenance (INIMNT1E.ZIP):  Edit and maintain your vital OS/2 INI 
files.  

o Info-Zip's UnZip 5.0 (UNZ50X32.EXE):  Extract files from ZIP archives.  
PKZip 2.x compatible.  Supports extended attributes.  Companion utility, 
Zip 1.9, also available.  

o GTAK GNU tar (GTAK212.ZIP):  Tape archive (backup and restore) utility.  
Supports SCSI tape drives.  

o MR/2 ( MR2_139.ZIP):  Reader for BBS QWK mail packets.  

o TE/2 (TE2_123.ZIP):  A full featured terminal emulation and modem 
communications program.  

o PMComm (PMCOM110.ZIP):  As full featured as TE/2, but with a Presentation 
Manager interface.  

o C-Kermit 5A(188) (CK5A188.ZIP):  A terminal emulation and modem 
communications program featuring the Kermit file transfer protocol.  

o SIO COM Drivers (SIO100.ZIP):  Replacement serial port drivers which 
offer enhanced performance.  

o McAfee's Virus Scan (OSCN102.ZIP):  Detects viruses.  Companion Virus 
Clean and Net Scan utilities also available.  

o Minesweeper (DMINE110.ZIP):  A game which requires you to avoid the mines 
in a minefield.  Several other versions are available.  

o Galleria (GALLERIA.ZIP):  Graphics manipulation and screen capture 
utility.  

o FracInt 17.2 (PMFRA2.ZIP):  Render fractal images.  Also converts among 
several image formats.  

o IBM Configurator and Pricer (ICPAUSA.ZIP):  Prices IBM personal computer 
systems and accessories.  

o PS/2 Assistant (PS2AST72.ZIP):  Provides information on most of the IBM 
personal computer product line, including OS/2.  

o Install B (INSTB.ZIP):  Allows installation of OS/2 from 3.5 inch media 
when Drive A is a 5.25 inch high density floppy drive and Drive B is a 3.5 
inch high density floppy drive.  

o emTeX (various):  Provides professional typesetting and document 
composition.  

o BlackHole (BLAKHOL3.ZIP):  A Workplace Shell object that destroys 
anything dragged to it.  

o CONFIG.SYS Editor (CFGED1B.ZIP):  A Presentation Manager utility which 
eases CONFIG.SYS editing.  

o BootOS2 (BOOT2X.ZIP):  Creates an OS/2 bootable diskette.  

o psPM (PSPM2.ZIP):  Displays a graphical representation of the processes 
running on an OS/2 system and allows termination of any or all.  

o Workplace Shell Tools (WPTOOL02.ZIP):  Creates or deletes standard 
Workplace Shell objects.  

o GhostScript PM (GS252PM.ZIP):  Postscript interpreter and viewer.  

o OS2You (OS2YOU27.ZIP):  OS/2 remote control over a modem or LAN 
connection.  Companion program PM2You, for control of graphical 
applications, including DOS and Windows, is also available.  

o UUPC/Extended (various):  Provides uucp connection for mail, news, and 
other services.  

o TedP (TEDP090.ZIP):  Text editor, under 10K in size -- perfect for an 
emergency boot diskette.  

o BookShelf (BOOKSHLF.ZIP):  Utility which presents a coherent menu of all 
available INF files on your system.  

o VSwitch (VSWITCH.ZIP):  A task list for full screen sessions.  
  
  
  Related information: 
  
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
  

(3.4) Disk Utilities

 Is there a Norton Utilities for OS/2? 

Not yet, although Norton Desktop, Norton Utilities, and Norton Commander 
all work under OS/2 2.1's DOS/Windows sessions [with limitations; See (1.3) 
DOS and Windows Compatibility].  Also, Norton Commander is now available 
for OS/2 2.1.  

However, the GammaTech Utilities should fill the role.  Contact their 
publisher at 405-359-1219.  Note that OS/2 2.1 has a built-in UnDelete 
utility (see the online Command Reference), and HPFS is resistant to 
fragmentation [See (1.5) High Performance File System].  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (1.3) DOS and Windows Compatibility 
 (1.5) High Performance File System 
 

(3.5) Running a BBS Under OS/2

 I would like to set up an OS/2 BBS.  What is available? 

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

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

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

 
 Related information: 
 
 (2.4)  COM3 and COM4 Support 
 (4.11) OS/2 BBSes 
 

(3.6) Multimedia (MMPM/2)

 What do I need for OS/2 multimedia applications? 

OS/2 2.1 includes both the Win-OS/2 multimedia extensions and MMPM/2, the 
OS/2 multimedia extensions, at no extra charge.  OS/2 2.1's MMPM/2 includes 
software motion video support for both IBM Ultimotion and Intel Indeo 
files.  Software motion video provides playback of video clips in a window 
under OS/2.  (Video for Windows will operate correctly under Win-OS/2, but 
Ultimotion is far more capable than Video for Windows.  Ultimotion supports 
higher frame rates, larger image sizes, better synchronization of video and 
audio, and, often, simultaneous playback of two or more video clips, even 
with background tasks running.)  An accelerated display adapter and a fast 
processor can help improve the quality of software motion video.  

Drivers for the Creative Labs SoundBlaster series, MediaVision ProAudio 
series, and IBM M-Audio Capture and Playback Adapter are provided with 
MMPM/2.  Other drivers should be available from (3.2) Shareware and 
Freeware Sources, or contact your adapter vendor for information on OS/2 
driver support.  (MediaVision will be releasing a patch which allows the 
Creative Labs Soundblaster driver to operate with SoundBlaster clones, like 
their own ThunderBoard.  The original SoundBlaster and certain ATI 
SoundBlaster clones may require a low cost upgrade from the manufacturer to 
work with MMPM/2.)  A driver for the PC speaker will be released by IBM in 
June, 1993, but this driver demands a huge amount of processor attention 
and does not provide the fidelity that audio adapters do.  

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

MMPM/2 drivers should also be available for Digitan and Omni sound 
adapters, directly from their manufacturers.  VideoLogic's (phone 
617-494-0530) DVA-4000 supports video capture and video display in OS/2 
windows as does New Media Graphics's (phone 508-663-0666) Super 
VideoWindows.  Tecmar (phone 800-624-8560 or 216-349-1009, or FAX 
216-349-0851) offers various OS/2 multimedia products, including the 
ProSound audio adapter.  

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

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

 
 Related information: 
 
 (1.3)  DOS and Windows Compatibility 
 (2.5)  Specific Hardware Recommendations 
 (3.2)  Shareware and Freeware Sources 
 (4.5)  Technical Support 
 (5.11) REXX 
 

(3.7) Viruses

 Should I worry about viruses when running OS/2 2.1? 

At present there are no OS/2-specific viruses.  However, DOS/Windows 
viruses can conceivably infect an OS/2 2.1 system.  DOS/Windows antivirus 
tools are just as useful in preventing such infection.  Also, IBM has an 
antivirus package (AntiVirus/2) which runs under OS/2 directly (without 
DOS/Windows emulation).  McAfee's OS/2 SCAN and CLEAN have been released, 
as has Dr.  Solomon's Antivirus Toolkit for OS/2 from Ontrack Systems.  
Others (Dr.  Cohen, for example) are in development.  

But OS/2 2.1 is likely to be much more resistant to viruses because of its 
design.  Viruses running in one virtual DOS/Windows session are likely to 
be confined to that session.  Low level disk access is curtailed under OS/2 
2.1, thus preventing most virus infection at that level.  And when a 
DOS/Windows virus does trigger, it is far less likely to disrupt the entire 
system.  In fact, OS/2 is most vulnerable when it isn't in charge (i.e.  
when native DOS is being used).  A DOS virus then has free reign to write 
to the hard disk and possibly disable OS/2.  The greater risk comes from 
leaving OS/2.  

OS/2 2.1 is by no means virus proof -- no system is.  But it should prove 
more resistant to virus infection.  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (1.3) DOS and Windows Compatibility 
 

(3.8) Networking Products

 What networking products are available for OS/2 2.1? 

In addition to DOS/Windows products, OS/2-specific TCP/IP support is 
available from IBM (phone 800-IBM-CALL), Essex Systems (phone 
508-532-5511), FTP Software (send mail to info@ftp.com), and others.  (A 
freeware SLIP implementation, PMNOS, is available; see (3.2) Shareware and 
Freeware Sources.)  The NetWare Workstation Kit 2.01 for OS/2 is available 
from Novell (phone 800-873-2831) and IBM for a small charge; it is also 
available free of charge from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.  Note 
that NetWare 4.0 Server (including all the NLMs) can run alongside OS/2 2.1 
at the same time, making OS/2 2.1 the only operating system providing 
nondedicated NetWare 4.0 server and client capability (a boon for 
administration and dual LAN Server/NetWare servers, for example).  IBM 
offers both NetWare and LAN Server 3.0 (Basic and Advanced) with LAN 
requesters.  Microsoft sells LAN Manager (which comes bundled with OS/2 
1.3).  An OS/2 2.1 LAN Manager Requester, part no.  96F8359, is available 
from IBM; Microsoft offers a similar requester with LAN Manager 2.1a (or 
later).  DEC sells Pathworks (Version 2.0b) for OS/2.  Banyan Vines 5.5 (or 
later) includes an OS/2 2.x requester.  

OS/2 NDIS MAC drivers for most network adapters are available from (3.2) 
Shareware and Freeware Sources, as well as vax.ftp.com via Internet 
anonymous ftp.  Drivers for 3Com adapters are available via anonymous ftp 
from ftp.3com.com, from the 3Com Support BBS, or from CompuServe (GO 
THREECOM).  Drivers for Cabletron adapters are available via anonymous ftp 
from ftp.ctron.com.  

Peer-to-peer networking under OS/2 2.1 is best accomplished (at the moment) 
with either a TCP/IP or APPN product, like IBM's TCP/IP or Communications 
Manager/2, respectively.  TCP/IP (with NFS) is available for nearly all 
platforms, so it is a particularly good choice in a mixed environment.  
Artisoft is reportedly working on an OS/2 version of LANtastic; contact the 
company for details.  Note that LANtastic 5.0 can run in an OS/2 2.1 DOS 
session, providing either client or server capability (including access to 
HPFS long filenames for DOS clients).  IBM may have its own offering in the 
near future (a repackaging and upgrade of the peer-to-peer support already 
provided in LAN Server 3.0).  This support can interoperate with Microsoft 
Windows for Workgroups.  

Infoworld recently called OS/2 the best PC operating system for networking 
in a mixed environment (i.e.  with multiple network protocols and/or 
platforms).  With IBM's Network Transport Services/2 at the base (i.e.  by 
working through a single NDIS interface, using "shims" if necessary), 
multiple network protocols can share the same network adapter under OS/2, 
avoiding contention.  OS/2 is equally adept as network client, server, 
and/or peer.  It is flexible enough to meet the needs of almost any network 
user.  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (1.3)  DOS and Windows Compatibility 
 (3.2)  Shareware and Freeware Sources 
 (3.9)  Extended Services 
 (3.12) Multiuser Extensions and Security 
 (5.9)  Specific DOS Sessions 
 

(3.9) Extended Services

 What is Extended Services? 

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

IBM has now unbundled the Extended Edition features, dropped LAN Requester 
from the package (now available separately, with IBM's LAN Server), updated 
it for OS/2 2.x, and renamed it Extended Services 1.0.  ES, by itself, no 
longer includes the base operating system as Extended Edition once did.  

This new arrangement makes it easier to update the base operating system 
with CSDs [See (4.6) Corrective Service Diskettes].  And now ES 1.0 will 
run under OS/2 1.3 Standard Edition as well as OS/2 2.x.  Also, ES 1.0, 
like OS/2 2.x itself, is designed to operate on both IBM and non-IBM 
systems [See (2.1) Hardware Requirements].  

While Extended Services will remain available, IBM has decided to further 
separate the ES components.  DB/2, a full 32-bit relational database, is 
available separately as a replacement for ES's Database Manager.  
Communication Manager/2 is now also available by itself.  With each 
component available "a la carte," you can configure your OS/2 system to 
your exact specifications (almost always at a lower cost), and you are free 
to substitute similar products from other vendors (so you aren't locked 
into IBM's offerings).  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (1.2) Differences Between Versions 
 (2.1) Hardware Requirements 
 (3.8) Networking Products 
 (4.6) Corrective Service Diskettes 
 

(3.10) Special Software Offers

 Are there any special software offers I should know about? 

Here are some of the OS/2 software products that represent particularly 
good values.  Most prices do not include shipping and handling.  

o FaxWorks.  SofNet is offering a native OS/2 fax application which 
supports faxing from DOS, Windows, and OS/2 applications.  SendFax, Class 
1, Class 2, Brooktree, Intel, and other faxmodems are supported.  The 
standalone version is just $99 direct from SofNet (phone 800-4FAXWORKS or 
404-984-8088, or FAX 404-984-9956); ask about network versions.  

o Novastor's Novaback Tape Backup Software.  This package supports a wide 
variety of tape drives, but check ahead to see if yours is supported.  
Available for $112 from Programmer's Connection, phone 800-336-1166 or 
216-494-8715.  

o IBM C Set ++.  IBM has released its C++ compiler for OS/2 at a special 
price.  Through August 31, C Set ++ is $175 on diskette, $149 on CD-ROM.  
To order call 800-342-6672 in the U.S.  or 800-465-7999 in Canada.  Outside 
North America, contact your local IBM dealer.  C Set ++ on diskette is IBM 
Part No.  61G1175; on CD-ROM, 61G1412.  

o Borland C++ for OS/2.  Available from Below Zero in Calgary (phone 
800-461-2777, 403-547-0669, or FAX 403-547-1018) for about $136 U.S., 
including shipping.  Add GST in Canada.  Below Zero will export outside 
North America.  

o IBM PL/I.  Not everyone is a PL/I programmer, but IBM is offering free 
copies of Workframe/2 with every purchase and free product videos.  Phone 
800-426-3346 ext.  STL10 for more information on the two packages 
available.  

o IBM TCP/IP for OS/2.  The universal peer-to-peer networking solution.  In 
the United States the base package is available for $131 from IBM Direct 
(phone 800-IBM-2-YOU); NFS (for disk sharing) and X Windows add-ons are $95 
each.  Part numbers are 02G6968, 02G6970, and 02G6980, respectively.  Both 
3.5 inch and 5.25 inch media are included in each package.  Additional 
license certificates are available at a lower cost.  

o New Lotus Applications.  Lotus 1-2-3 2.0 and Freelance Graphics 2.0 for 
OS/2 are now available.  These 32-bit, Workplace Shell and HPFS aware 
applications are available at the same prices as the DOS and Windows 
counterparts.  For educational discounts in the United States contact 
Douglas Stewart Co.  (phone 800-279-2795).  

o Imara ScanTool.  Imara Research Corp.  is offering its OS/2 ScanTool 
software at a special price of $99 with a 30 day money back guarantee.  
Works with HP ScanJet, ScanJet Plus, ScanJet IIP, and ScanJet IIC scanners.  
Saves files as PCX, raw TIFF, or compressed TIFF.  Phone Imara at 
416-581-1740 (or FAX 416-581-1605) for more information or to order.  

o DeScribe.  DeScribe 4.0, the first 32-bit Workplace Shell and HPFS aware 
word processor for OS/2, is available for $275 from the IBM OS/2 Hotline 
(phone 800-3-IBM-OS2).  To qualify for this price you must have purchased 
something else (anything else, e.g.  the $15 March OS/2 2.1 Beta CD-ROM) 
through the Hotline.  The price includes any minor maintenance and the next 
full release of DeScribe.  DeScribe is also available at the educational 
price of $125 by calling 800-448-1586 or 916-646-1111, or by FAX at 
916-923-3447; ask for Monica.  

o Conner Backup Exec.  Conner, through some recent acquisitions, has 
obtained expertise in OS/2 backup software.  Backup Exec is the latest 
effort, on sale at a special price of $69.  Call 800-468-2587 for more 
information or to order.  

o Corel Draw 2.5.  Corel Systems has dropped the price of Corel Draw 2.5 
for OS/2 to just $199 (list).  

o Corel SCSI Software.  Corel Systems offers a SCSI driver package which 
will give you additional support for removeable media (such as 
magneto-optical drives) under OS/2 (and DOS).  This package is available 
for $64.95 from Computability (phone 800-554-9948 or FAX 414-357-7814).  

o PFS:Works.  Spinnaker has slashed the price of PFS:Works for OS/2, an 
integrated software package providing word processing, spreadsheet, 
charting, database, and communications functions.  Many dealers are 
carrying PFS:Works for OS/2 for under $40, including Indelible Blue (phone 
919-834-7005, FAX 919-783-8380).  

o WordPerfect 5.2.  WordPerfect Corp.  will ship WordPerfect 5.2 for OS/2 
in June, 1993.  If you already have WordPerfect 5.2 for Windows, you may 
obtain the diskettes for the OS/2 version for about $25, thanks to 
WordPerfect's generous multiplatform license.  (A manual is extra.)  
Contact WordPerfect for details, including educational and nonupgrade 
pricing.  WordPerfect can be reached at 800-451-5151 or FAX 801-222-5077.  

o Norton Commander.  Through June 30, Symantec is offering the Norton 
Commander for OS/2 for just $49.  Norton Commander is a file manager and 
menuing system.  To order phone 800-343-4714 or FAX 303-727-4611.  

o Relish.  Relish is a 32-bit PIM (personal information manager), handling 
scheduling and calendar functions.  Relish is now available for only $69 
directly from Sundial Systems; mention the "OS/2 User Group Birthday 
Special" when ordering.  A demonstration version of Relish is available 
from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.  

o IBM DB2/2.  The single user version of IBM's Database 2 for OS/2 is on 
sale through August 31 for just $199 (part no.  62G3648).  This powerful, 
32-bit database is the successor to the Database Manager found in Extended 
Services.  Server versions are available.  
  
  
  Related information: 
  
  (3.1) Applications 
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
  

(3.11) Backup Software

 What backup software is available? 

Generally DOS backup programs will work under OS/2 2.1, but they may not 
capture some OS/2 data (especially extended attributes) on the hard disk 
without the assistance of utilities such as EABackup [See (3.2) Shareware 
and Freeware Sources].  

OS/2 backup tools are available, notably:  

 
  Software Title           Company              Telephone
 
  PMTape and PS2Tape       IBM                  (800) IBM-CALL
 
  Sytos Plus               Sytron               (508) 898-0100
                                                BBS (508) 898-2608
 
  EZTape and Backup Exec   Irwin (Conner)       (800) 821-8782
 
  DMS/Intelligent Backup   Sterling             (916) 635-5535
 
  FileSafe                 Mountain             (408) 438-2665
 
  KeepTrack Plus           Finot                (800) 748-6480
 
  Back in a Flash!         CCT Inc.             (612) 339-5870
 
  NovaBack                 NovaStor             (818) 707-9900
 
  OBackup                  ?                    See (3.2) Shareware and  
                                                Freeware Sources
 
  BackMaster               MSR Development      (409) 564-1862
 
  MaynStream               Maynard              (407) 263-3500
 
 
The OS/2 BACKUP utility is best used from an OS/2 diskette boot [See (4.4) 
Starting OS/2 from Diskette].  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
 (4.4) Starting OS/2 from Diskette 
 

(3.12) Multiuser Extensions and Security

 What multiuser extensions and security options are available? 

As shipped, OS/2 does not support multiuser operation, although third 
parties have grafted multiuser capabilities onto the base operating system.  
These products include:  

 
  Software Title       Company              Telephone
 
  Remote-OS            Software Lifeline    (407) 994-4466
 
  OS2You               ?                    See (3.2) Shareware and  
                                            Freeware Sources
 
  Citrix               Citrix Systems       (305) 755-0559
 
  PolyMod2             MemSoft              (407) 997-6655
 
 
PC/DACS (Pyramid, phone 203-257-4223) offers security (for multiple users, 
one at a time, in a lab setting for example).  

IBM LAN Server provides local security (as well as LAN-oriented multiuser 
features).  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (3.8) Networking Products 
 

(4.1) Installation

 I am having trouble installing OS/2 2.1.  What should I do? 

First consult the Installation Guide and other materials accompanying OS/2 
2.1.  Make sure your PC meets the system requirements in (2.1) Hardware 
Requirements.  

And if the following instructions do not help, fall back on IBM's toll free 
technical support (phone 800-992-4777 in the United States) and/or consult 
IBM's Tips and Techniques file [See (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources].  

o Some PCs have trouble printing under OS/2 2.1.  This problem can often be 
traced to an interrupt conflict, a substandard cable, an interfering 
software security "dongle," or a faulty printer adapter.  LPT1 uses IRQ 7, 
and LPT2, if installed, uses IRQ 5. Interrupts should not be shared on AT 
bus machines.  The SoundBlaster, for example, comes set to IRQ 7. Reset it 
to an unused interrupt.  

o Make sure adapters with onboard ROMs are not conflicting with other 
adapters.  For example, many SuperVGA adapters use large segments of upper 
memory, and many hard disk adapters have onboard ROMs which can be mapped 
into the same areas.  Adapters must not share address space or interrupts.  
Check your product manuals for more help.  

o Be sure adequate free disk space is available before installing, 
including space for a swap file.  Drives compressed using Stacker or 
similar utilities should be uncompressed before installing (unless access 
to these drives from OS/2 is not needed).  [An OS/2 version of Stacker is 
available, as is Proportional Software's (phone 303-484-2665) DCF/2 
on-the-fly disk compression package.] 

o Do not select HPFS when installing if your machine has 6 MB of RAM or 
less, or diminished performance will likely result.  Change the IFS=...HPFS 
line in your CONFIG.SYS to REM IFS=...  if necessary.  

o Be sure your CMOS setup parameters are set correctly, especially those 
relating to floppy drives.  RAM should be given sufficient wait states and 
precharge cycles.  Test with cache memory and/or shadow RAM disabled if 
necessary.  The AT bus should run at 8 MHz.  For best performance, make 
sure all your RAM is set to be cacheable.  

o If you are using the IBMINT13.I13 driver to access an MFM, RLL, or ESDI 
hard drive, and the hard drive has more than 1024 cylinders, be certain 
your hard disk adapter's sector translation mode is enabled.  

o Some Quantum LPS105AT IDE hard disks require a free ROM update (to 
Version 2.6) from the manufacturer to work with OS/2.  

o If your AMI keyboard BIOS is below Revision F you may need an update.  
Contact Washburn & Assoc.  (phone 716-248-3627) for an inexpensive 
replacement.  

o Check to make sure keyboard DIP switches are set correctly.  For example, 
if the keyboard is attached to a system with an AT bus it should typically 
be switched to "AT" mode.  

o "Autoswitching" on non-IBM EGA adapters should be disabled (usually with 
a DIP switch or jumper setting).  In rare cases it may be necessary to 
switch third party VGA/SuperVGA adapters into 8-bit mode and/or disable 
"autosense."  See (2.2) SuperVGA Support.  

o OS/2 is particularly sensitive to bad RAM or cache memory (often 
reflected in TRAP 0002 error messages).  Use a thorough RAM testing 
utility, and try not to mix 9-chip and 3-chip SIMM/SIPP memory modules.  
When upgrading, avoid adding RAM which is not rated (in nanoseconds) at 
least as fast (i.e.  with an equal or lower number) as the RAM already in 
the system.  

o Allow several minutes for OS/2 2.1 to build your desktop (and display 
icons) at the end of installation -- take the Tutorial offered to you in 
the meantime.  Avail yourself of the "Start Here" icon, the other online 
help, and the README file located in the root directory.  They will help in 
getting started with the Workplace Shell and in properly configuring your 
system.  

o When installing over a beta version of OS/2 be sure to reformat.  

o To install the Upgrade Edition of OS/2 2.1, DOS or OS/2 must already 
reside on the hard disk.  If Diskette 1 is not write protected then the 
installation program will record a file indicating that upgrade terms have 
been satisfied and, in the future, will not require DOS or OS/2 on the hard 
disk to install.  

o OS/2 uses the same diskette format as DOS, so use DISKCOPY to backup the 
installation diskettes and verify that none have been corrupted.  

o Owners of IBM PS/2s should make sure that any applicable ECAs 
(engineering changes) have been performed and that the most recent 
Reference Diskette is in use.  Reference Diskettes are available from the 
IBM PC Co.  BBS (modem 404-835-6600).  

o Try disconnecting any tape backup device if "Cannot find COUNTRY.SYS" 
messages are encountered when booting OS/2.  

o An Always IN-2000 SCSI adapter with BIOS 3.06A or 3.20 requires an 
updated version from the manufacturer.  A companion 8-pin serial PROM chip 
may also need to be updated.  Contact Always at 818-597-9595.  Also ask 
about non-IBMINT13.I13 driver support.  

o The TI TM4000 notebook may require a BIOS update to run OS/2 2.1; phone 
817-771-5856 for help.  

o For the technically advanced user, the following list of TRAP error codes 
may help you in addressing OS/2 problems.  

     Code           Description 
     0000           Divide by zero error 
     0001           Debug exception 
     0002           Non Maskable Interrupt (usually memory parity error) 
     0003           Breakpoint (one byte INT 3 instruction) 
     0004           Overflow 
     0005           Bounds check (BOUND instruction) 
     0006           Invalid opcode 
     0007           Coprocessor not available 
     0008           Double fault 
     0009           (Reserved) 
     000A           Invalid TSS 
     000B           Segment not present 
     000C           Stack exception 
     000D           General protection 
     000E           Page fault 
     000F           (Reserved) 
     0010           Coprocessor error 
     0011-001F      (Reserved) 
     0020-00FF      Available for external interrupts via INTR pin 

o For the technically advanced user who wishes to install a secondary 
diskette controller (provided it uses a separate DMA channel, IRQ, and I/O 
address), the following parameters are available for the 
BASEDEV=IBM1FLPY.ADD line in CONFIG.SYS:  

     Parameter   Description 
     /MCA        Load on Microchannel machine 
     /A:x        Adapter ID (where x is 0 or 1) 
     /IRQ:x      Interrupt level (where x is a number) 
     /DMA:x      DMA channel (where x is a number) 
     /P:hhhh     Controller I/O address (hhhh) 
     /U:x        Drive number (where x is 0 to 3) 
     /F:ccc      Drive capacity (where ccc is 360KB to 2.88MB) 
     /CL:tttt    Changeline type (where tttt is NONE, AT, or PS2) 
     /SPEC:hh    Controller specify bytes (hh) 

    Example: 
    
    BASEDEV=IBM1FLPY.ADD /A:0 /DMA:3 /IRQ:10 /P:370 /U:0 /F:360KB
    
  
  
  Related information: 
  
  (2.1) Hardware Requirements 
  (2.2) SuperVGA Support 
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
  (4.6) Corrective Service Diskettes 
  

(4.2) Installing from Drive B

 I can't install OS/2 2.1 from Drive B.  What's wrong? 

IBM OS/2 2.1 can only be installed starting from Drive A, like DOS (unless 
your BIOS supports booting from Drive B).  After booting from Drive A, OS/2 
can then be copied from CD-ROM or across a network.  (For more information 
on installation across a network, see Remote Installation and Maintenance, 
IBM Publication No.  GG24-3780.  Related publications include Automated 
Installation for CID Enabled OS/2 2.0, IBM Pub.  No.  GG24-3783, and 
Automated Installation for CID Enabled Extended Services, LAN Server 3.0 
and Network Transport Services/2, IBM Pub.  No.  GG24-3781.)  If you have 
the wrong disk size go back to your dealer and obtain the correct media.  
Otherwise you could open your machine and swap floppy drive cable 
connectors, use your system's setup utility to set the new CMOS parameters, 
and then install OS/2 from the "new" Drive A. Sometimes the floppy drive 
cable connectors will not be the same.  If so you can obtain an adapter 
plug.  

You may also use IBM's twin "bootstrap" diskette images [See (3.2) 
Shareware and Freeware Sources] to boot from a 5.25 inch Drive A and 
install using 3.5 inch OS/2 diskettes inserted into Drive B. This procedure 
should only be used if absolutely necessary.  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
 (4.1) Installation 
 

(4.3) Hard Disk Partitioning

 What is the best way to partition my hard disk for OS/2? 

There is no single best way to partition your hard disk for OS/2.  For some 
advice on the subject you should consult the IBM OS/2 Installation and 
Planning Guide, available for download from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware 
Sources, and the OS/2 Installation Guide in the OS/2 package.  

It can be useful to place OS/2 by itself in a separate partition of about 
40 or 50 MB.  If you then elect to experiment with beta releases of OS/2, 
you can reformat that particular partition quite easily to erase all old 
code.  The swap file can be placed on another partition; its location is 
determined by the SWAPPATH line in CONFIG.SYS.  

Partitioning should be performed by booting the OS/2 Installation Disk.  
Executing FDISK from the command line will not allow certain functions to 
be performed.  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (1.5) High Performance File System 
 (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
 

(4.4) Starting OS/2 from Diskette (and CHKDSK)

How do I access HPFS partitions on my hard drive without booting from the 
hard drive?  I'm getting error messages now -- how do I "repair" my hard 
disk?  

With IBM OS/2 2.1, insert the Installation Diskette, Shutdown (if 
necessary), and reboot.  When prompted insert Diskette 1 and press ENTER.  
When prompted, press ESC.  You will be given an OS/2 command line prompt.  
From there you can make necessary changes to your hard disk -- an OS/2 
character mode text editor on diskette is handy for such changes.  (Make 
sure you backup CONFIG.SYS before making any changes so that you can easily 
revert to the old version should things go wrong.)  

You may use this diskette boot method to run CHKDSK on your FAT or HPFS 
volumes.  After you reach the command line, insert Diskette 2. Do not log 
to another drive.  Type CHKDSK X:  /F to repair most kinds of damage to 
your hard disk, replacing X with the appropriate drive letter.  (If you are 
checking a HPFS disk, use /F:3 if you have the time.)  OS/2 CHKDSK will 
also mark your hard disk as accessible, if possible, should OS/2 "lock it 
out" for some reason.  It will also allow Workplace Shell drive objects to 
open properly if they are not functioning correctly.  Repeat for each drive 
letter you wish to check and/or repair.  

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

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

Several utilities [including BOOTOS2; See (3.2) Shareware and Freeware 
Sources] can create a single, bootable OS/2 diskette (as a convenience).  
Preloaded versions of OS/2 2.0 can create a bootable diskette pair from the 
Welcome folder.  (This step, along with a full BACKUP after a diskette 
boot, should be performed immediately upon receipt of any IBM preloaded 
OS/2 2.0 system.)  

 
 Related information: 
 
 (1.5) High Performance File System 
 (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources 
 

(4.5) Technical Support

 How can I get answers to my OS/2 questions? 

If your question is not answered in this List, post a note to the 
appropriate Usenet conference:  comp.os.os2.apps carries discussions 
related to finding or using any application running under OS/2, 
comp.os.os2.networking looks at networking issues, comp.os.os2.advocacy 
deals with opinions and speculation, comp.os.os2.programmer.porting helps 
programmers move applications over to OS/2 from other operating systems and 
environments, comp.os.os2.programmer.misc addresses anything else related 
to OS/2 programming, comp.os.os2.beta explores beta releases of OS/2, 
comp.os.os2.ver1x supports all releases of OS/2 prior to Version 2.0, 
comp.os.os2.announce carries important OS/2 announcements, comp.os.os2.bugs 
discusses possible bugs found in released versions of the operating system, 
comp.os.os2.multimedia fosters conversation about OS/2 multimedia 
(including MMPM/2), comp.os.os2.setup offers a place to talk about setup 
and installation issues, and comp.os.os2.misc is for any other OS/2-related 
discussion.  These groups are watched closely by OS/2 experts from IBM.  
Also, comp.lang.rexx discusses REXX programming.  

Internet Relay Chat (IRC) has a dedicated channel (#os/2) which provides 
round-the-clock, real time OS/2 support and information thanks to the 
efforts of several volunteers.  If you are not familiar with IRC, ask your 
system administrator for help.  

A LISTSERVer distributes its own OS/2 conference by mail; send a single 
line message with the word HELP to listserv@cc1.kuleuven.ac.be for full 
instructions; or send the same message to listserv@frors12.circe.fr for 
information on an unedited mailing list.  To subscribe to the Multimedia 
Presentation Manager/2 [See (3.6) Multimedia] mailing list, send a single 
line message with the phrase SUBSCRIBE MMOS2-L (Your Name) to 
mail-server@knex.via.mind.org.  

Your local FidoNet BBS may carry OS/2 echo conferences and/or OS2NET.  If 
not, ask your system operator to join them.  CompuServe (FIND OS/2) and 
Prodigy are also excellent resources.  

The IBM PC Co.  BBS's (modem 404-835-6600) message areas, product database, 
and PS/2 Assistant file(s) are invaluable resources.  Information on the 
IBM OS/2 BBS is included in the OS/2 2.1 package.  In the United States IBM 
has toll free technical support (phone 800-992-4777), an OS/2 Hotline ( 
general information, orders, upgrades, phone 800-3-IBM-OS2; ask about OS/2 
videotapes, T-shirts, and other accessories), the HelpWare Center (phone 
800-PS2-2227), a software order line (phone 800-IBM-CALL), two FAX 
information services (phone 800-IBM-4FAX and/or 800-IBM-3395), and an 
educational inquiries/order line (phone 800-222-7257).  In Canada phone IBM 
Personal Systems Software at 800-465-1234.  

OS/2 2.1 developers should contact the IBM Developer Assistance Program 
(phone 407-982-6408); membership is free.  (You may also join on CompuServe 
with GO OS2DAP.)  The OS/2 Professional Developer's Kit CD-ROM, containing 
a wide selection of development tools and code, is available from IBM 
(phone 800-3-IBM-OS2 to order in the United States for $20, express 
shipping included; in Canada, phone 800-465-1234; in Australia, phone 
Rohaini Cain or Mike Voris at 13-2426 ext.  7684; elsewhere, contact the 

[Continue with Part 3 of 4.]
-- 
Timothy F. Sipples       |READ the OS/2 FAQ List 2.1A, available from
sip1@kimbark.uchicago.edu|192.153.46.254, anonymous ftp, in /os2/all/info/faq,
Dept. of Econ., Univ.    |or from LISTSERV@BLEKUL11.BITNET (send "HELP").
of Chicago, 60637        |[Post to ONE newsgroup only AFTER reading the List.]