Rush #01: AMIGA NEWS: Insight into Fast JPEG 1.10

RUSH> 
With this article, we open a series of publications dedicated to describing system programs for the Amiga computer. We will be glad if you want to share your own experience with all interested readers and send descriptions of programs that you have already mastered and studied well to the editorial office. Also, write about which specific programs you would like to see in our magazine. For now, we offer you to read the description of a decent graphic file viewer - "Fast JPEG"... 

Hello, girls and boys (especially the former)! I have the honor to present to your attention the description of a cool program called "Fast JPEG 1.10 by Christoph Feck, TowerSystems". This description is based on the official manual and personal experience, which amounts to about a year of using this brainchild of human minds and hands (~50000 of erotic pictures - this is no joke !!?.).

The description is divided into the following sections: 

INTRODUCTION 
FEATURES 
REQUIREMENTS 
INSTALLATION 
USAGE 
TIPS FROM THE EXPERIENCED 

Introduction-INTRODUCTION. 

Translating (???) the words of the program's author: one can learn that "... this is the fastest JPEG demonstrator available for free/open access for Amiga." In addition, this product is distinguished by good quality in terms of both performance and service, as well as design; "An important 'feature' is that quality has not been sacrificed for speed." The ability to display graphics at any resolution and palette from 16 colors (gray scale) to HAM 6/8 (Hold-And-Modify), plus the use of the "Floyd-Steinberg" effect, which is absolutely unnecessary for the mortal user. 

Features-FEATURES. 

- free/openly distributed (????!!!!....). 
- special AGA version included (for HAM8 mode). 
- Shell and Workbench interfaces. 
- control from keyboard and mouse. 
- ASL (file and screen mode request) supported. 
- ability to use as a resident. 
- only 27 Kb in size. 
- excellent quality, even in HAM mode. 
- carefully selected color palette and conversion algorithms. 
- Dithering to increase the number of visible colors. 
- graphics optimization. 
- It's fast!!! 

Requirements-REQUIREMENTS. 

Fast JPEG works on any AMIGA model. Large images may require 1 MB of memory, especially if other programs are running simultaneously. Most of the program's features are available only if you have OS 2.0 or newer installed. A special AGA version is included, which converts graphics to HAM8 mode. This version requires a 68020 processor (or better), at least OS 3.0, and, strangely enough, an AGA chipset. 

Installation-INSTALLATION. 

Choose FJPEG_ECS (OCS/ECS version) or FJPEG_AGA (AGA version), copy it wherever you like and rename it to FJPEG. 

Usage-USAGE. 

Launching from Workbench: 

There are three methods to launch Fast JPEG from Workbench: 
- Double-click the icon of the Fast JPEG and select images using the ASL file requester window (you can select several files at once); 
- Designate "FJPEG" as the required tool (in the default tool field) in the icon of your JPEG image. This can be done using the "Information" option from the Workbench's Iconmenu. Now you can simply double-click this icon, and Fast JPEG will launch automatically. 
- Single-click on FJPEG while holding Shift, select the desired images, and double-click on the last one. 

Launching from Shell: 

Fast JPEG will use all the names of JPEG images specified after its name as arguments, and it will display the images in the listed order (wildcard conditions can be used in the names). 

Key shortcuts: 

If the image has processed correctly, press the left mouse button or any key to proceed to the next one. Right mouse button/ESCape/Q/Ctrl-C - exit from FJPEG (only Ctrl-C works in the Shell window). If you are a lucky owner of a three-button mouse, you can press the middle button to select another file in the requester (the same result can be achieved by pressing the "N" button or Shift+left mouse button on a two-button mouse). Note: in version 1.0, the same result was achieved by pressing the right mouse button. 

Program options: 

The following options should be entered with a space after the name (FJPEG) in Shell, CLI, or Command line (Workbench option "Execute File"). The author threatens that the next version of the program will support "ToolType" and/or configuration files. There are two types of options: switches and options that require an argument. To enable a switch (an option marked with /S), you just need to enter its name. Options that require an argument are marked with /K and /N, which require a key expression and a number, respectively, after the "=" sign. 

Display options: 
--------------------------- 

ScreenMode/K or SM/K (display mode) The name of the display mode must be enclosed in quotes if it contains spaces. Example: ScreenMode="NTSC:Low Res Laced" If you enter "?" instead of the mode name, a window will appear with the available display modes (if you have OS 2.1), select one of them. 

Gray/S or Grey/S (gray) Gray scale color mode. 
Dirty/S (dirty) Disables the dithering function. This increases the speed of image processing but reduces quality. 

Slideshow options: 
--------------- 

Repeat/K/N (repeat) The number of cycles to demonstrate the list of images. 1 - by default. 

Forever/S (forever) Infinite tag. Images are displayed until you manually interrupt the demonstration. 

Delay/K/N (delay) Delay in seconds after each image. If you do not specify this option, FastJPEG will wait for any key press or left mouse click. 

Diagnostic options: 
----------------- 

Quiet/S (quiet) No output information in the Shell window. 

Time/S (time) Reports the time taken to process the image. 

Info/S (guess three times) Prints only the parameters of the image. The image is not displayed. 

Test/S (check your intelligence again) Full test of the image. If you "slipped" a "fake" image, the error code will be 5 (WARN). 

Other options: 
------------ 

NoBusy/S (do not occupy) Does not show the busy mouse pointer. 

Pointer/S (pointer) The pointer does not disappear after opening the image. 

Hide/S (hide) Processing occurs in the background, then the image is displayed on the front screen. 

LowMem/S (low memory) When the "Hide" option is set, the "old" screen remains on the display while the image is being processed. Use this option to eliminate this effect. 

Keyboard control: 
------------------------ 

Note: All the following actions are effective only on the active screen of FastJPEG. The cursor keys move at normal speed. Alt+cursor keys move slowly. Shift+cursor keys move quickly. Hold the spacebar on the current image if the Delay option is set. Ctrl+C, Q, Esc exit from FastJPEG. N next argument. Any other key - proceed to the next image. 

Error messages: 
-------------------- 

Not enough memory - not enough memory. 

Can't open screen - the image is too large to fit in Chip memory. 

Can't open file - file not found. 

Can't read file - file cannot be read (DOS error). 

Not a JPEG file - not a JPEG file. 

Error in JPEG file - error in the JPEG file data or the file contains modes not supported by this version of FastJPEG. 

TIPS FROM THE EXPERIENCED 

This section will be useful for those whose computer configuration is similar to mine: A600/KickStart 37.350 (OS 2.05)/2 MB ChipRAM/FDD 3.5"/HDD/CD-ROM Reader (Note: I think that the AMIGA model, the presence/absence of a "hard drive" and CD-ROM does not play a significant role). As is known, the JPEG format has some peculiarities - a palette of 24 bits (16777216 colors) or 8 bits (256 colors, gray scale) and very powerful compression, with loss of quality. Therefore, processing JPEG images on machines with "low" configurations requires a lot of time and memory. Therefore, I recommend using different configurations of FastJPEG: 

When working in Directory Opus (V 5.0): 

After launching Directory Opus on a 2-meter machine, there is very little memory left, and D.Opus itself consumes system speed. I think you would hardly want to view "full-color" images from Directory Opus. Therefore, the following configuration of FastJPEG is quite acceptable: FJPEG Gray Dirty (this will provide you with rather fast image processing and you will be able to understand what it depicts). 

MultiView: FJPEG (high-resolution color image (screen mode 320*512*HAM)). 

Viewing images from CD-ROM discs: 

Here you can "go all out". To have the maximum memory and the highest speed, I recommend launching FastJPEG from a separate startup script, an example of which is provided below. To run this script, you should "reset" your computer (Ctrl+LAmiga+RAmiga) and hold both mouse buttons. You will enter the system settings menu. Click on "Advanced Options" and disable all unnecessary devices (the description next to the device should change to "DISABLED") and cancel the startup-sequence. Exit "Advanced Options" using "USE". In the main menu, click on the device from which you want to start. In the appeared AmigaDOS window, enter the path of the script and its name. And here is the startup script: 

MakeDir RAM:ENV 
MakeDir RAM:ENV/CDplusplus 
MakeDir RAM:T 
Assign >NIL: ENV: RAM:ENV 
Assign >NIL: T: RAM:T 
Copy from SYS:Prefs/ENV-Archive/CDplusplus to ENV:CDplusplus 
Prompt % 
Avail flush 
Mount CD0: 
HDOff T1=1 
Echo "Starting JPEG viewer ..." 
SYS:GfxView/FJPEG SM=? 

In lines 6 and 12, you must specify your source paths and FastJPEG. In line 10, the HDOff program is launched, which you might not have. So if you do not have it or do not have a hard drive, delete this line. That's all... Enjoy and have fun.

Contents of the publication: Rush #01

• AMIGA NEWS
  Amiga Inc works on Amiga OS 3.5 with enhancements like CD drive and PowerPC support. Split development for M68K and PPC processors. Delayed release to late 1999 or early 2000.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Description of the 'Fast JPEG 1.10' viewer for Amiga, focusing on its features, installation, and usage. It highlights advantages like fast processing without quality loss and provides user tips. Readers are encouraged to share their software experiences.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Basic programming for classic Amiga, discussing challenges and sharing knowledge in Amiga coding. Overview of Amiga graphics capabilities and processor features. Introduction to Amiga assembly language specifics.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Overview of events related to the Amiga platform from early to mid-1998. Highlights include new hardware, software releases, and notable company collaborations. Future updates and developments are scheduled for the next issue.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Collection of cheats and secrets for classic Amiga games compiled by Postcard Man. Readers encouraged to share their findings on complex games. Selection of tips and level codes provided for various games.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Discussion of Phase-5's graphics cards and Permedia 2 processor capabilities. Details on Permedia 2's 2D/3D acceleration and compatibility. Mention of GLINT Delta processors and comparison of prices and availability.
• AMIGA NEWS
  Analysis of Amiga's survival in the 90s, highlighting community efforts and technological advancements. Discussion on hardware improvements and software development. Encouragement for further exploration and learning about the Amiga platform.
• Spectrum Programming
  Explanation of a fast method for real-time 3D graphics on the ZX Spectrum. Introduces efficient rotation and deformation techniques for 3D objects. Emphasizes improvements over traditional methods with practical examples.
• Spectrum Programming - Ticklish Jim
  Discussion of combining sound effects with music for Spectrum's AY chip. Examples from development of 'CSC: Deja Vu' and technical challenges faced. Contains practical guide and code examples.
• Spectrum Programming
  Discussion on byte mirroring and background restoration in ZX Spectrum programming, with examples.
• Spectrum Programming
  Comprehensive guide for system programmers with practical tips for creating efficient and user-friendly software, including coding techniques, device compatibility, and program testing strategies.
• Spectrum Programming
  Advanced coding techniques and modern graphics methods for ZX Spectrum. Tips for optimizing graphical procedures and coding on assembly. Useful advice for programmers to improve performance and efficiency.
• The End
  Reflections on the creation of the first issue of the magazine 'Rush', its goals, audience, and future development.
• ZX-SOFT - Вячеслав Медноногов
  Development updates on Vyacheslav Mednoy's new game 'Black Raven II', including gameplay changes, new spell introductions, and performance improvements.
• ZX-SOFT
  Overview of new features in the updated commander from REAL software for ZX Spectrum, including file management, autodetection, and media viewing. Improvements in text, font, and music handling. Questions addressed regarding future updates.
• ZX-SOFT
  Debate on which demo deserved the top spot at Funtop'98: Forever by DR or Refresh by XTM. Discussions in the demoscene community highlight the clash between technical prowess and conceptual depth. Different opinions reflect on the evolution of demoscene preferences.
• Authors
  Acknowledgment of contributors and partners in creating Rush magazine. Detailed roles of each author and collaboration insights. Recognition of technical support and media partnerships.
• Virtual Specky
  Discussion on converting graphics from PC to Spectrum, featuring insights from various experts. Techniques for improving conversion quality and tools like Photoshop are detailed. Emphasis on post-conversion refinement in Spectrum graphics editors.
• Virtual Speccy
  Discussion on the CBSpeccy emulator for ZX-Spectrum on Amiga, highlighting its features, community opinions, and technical performance. Criticisms and praises for its emulation capabilities, particularly compared to PC emulators. Examination of potential improvements and community debates around version updates.
• Virtual Speccy
  FAQ on ZX-Spectrum emulation on PC, covering popular emulators and file formats. Instructions for using different emulators and managing file types like Hobeta and TR-DOS. Discussion on Russian ZX-oriented servers and resources for enthusiasts.
• Introduction
  Introduction to the Rush magazine, emphasizing creativity, progressive scene, and the goal to create a superior information source. The magazine seeks to gather promising groups and offer a unique perspective. Focuses on content and atmosphere, welcoming creators to contribute.
• Introduction - Grunge
  Introduction to Rush, a new scenemag for Speccy/Amiga enthusiasts, aims to provide quality content and news while encouraging reader feedback.
• Interview - Konex
  Interview with ANTARES group after FUNTOP-98. Discussion on their demos, challenges, and future plans. Insight into the group's formation and dynamics.
• Interview - Kvazar, DUX
  Interview with Alexander Seleznev (KVAZAR), discussing his history with computers, the state of the ZX Spectrum scene, and future plans.
• Interview - Kvazar
  Interview with Vitebsk group POWER on demo 'Crazy Love', development experiences, and future projects.
• Informatorium
  Exploration of a CD with emulators for various platforms, highlighting Spectrum. Details the content organization and diversity. Concludes with insights from the CD-ROM Project's Spectrum software collection.
• Informacrium
  Compilation of interesting and useful Internet addresses related to Amiga resources, including magazines, hardware manufacturers, and software companies.
• Informacrium - Viator
  Overview of existing and upcoming publications on the Amiga platform. Discussion of the availability and distribution challenges for Amiga literature. Appeal for collaboration with new publications.
• About the Magazine
  Discussion on creating a multi-platform magazine focusing on Spectrum, Amiga, and PC. Emphasis on broader understanding of computer scene. Encourage professionalism and adaptation to changing technology.
• Parallel Worlds
  Overview of the evolution of Windows OS and PC processors from 1981 to 2000. Development milestones of MS-DOS, Windows, Intel processors, and competition with AMD and Cyrix. Challenges in maintaining compatibility with new processor technologies.
• Parallel Worlds
  Overview of Macintosh models and their relevance in design and graphics fields, covering prices and specifications from 1997-1998. Discussion includes the evolution of Apple's hardware, notably the PowerMac series, and compares new G3 processors with PC counterparts. It highlights the resurgence of Macintosh post-crisis and its ongoing influence in the market.
• Development of the Spectrum - Slider
  The article discusses a new graphical extension for the ZX Spectrum that enhances color palettes without increasing resource demands. By using a modified flash signal, new colors are created without interfering with existing software compatibility. The article provides implementation details and addresses practical usage concerns.
• Development of Spectrum
  Connecting a CDOS modem to the 'Compact-128' computer by addressing keyboard port conflicts. Description of hardware modifications to solve the issue. Solution includes automatic blocking using a transistor inverter.
• Development of Spectrum - Ars
  Discussion on AZX-Monstrum 512K development, its hardware compatibility, processor options, and potential enhancements in graphics and OS.
• Development of SPECTRUM
  Discussion of Clive Sinclair's new computer platform, the ZX2000, designed to outperform PCs with enhanced speed, affordability, and battery efficiency.
• Development of Spectrum - Андрей Савичев
  Examination of the evolution and ongoing relevance of the Z80 processor, and its role in embedded systems. Comparison of Z80 with its successors, highlighting advantages like energy efficiency and command enhancements. Overview of integrated Z80-based CPUs and their peripherals.
• Advertisement
  This article is an advertisement for Scorpion products including hardware for ZX Spectrum and Amiga software, along with pricing and ordering details.
• Advertising
  Collection of advertisements for Amiga and ZX Spectrum hardware and software, with contact information for sellers and details about the new Amiga magazine subscription.
• Advertisement
  Advertisement for X-TRADE's General Sound music board. Includes pricing, technical details, and purchase instructions. Features a FAQ section and compatibility info.
• Meaning Without Meaning - Viator
  Philosophical reflections on existentialism, immortality, and human destiny. The narrative weaves through stories of ambition, the quest for eternal life, and a utopian downfall. A blend of introspection and speculative fiction.
• Scene vs Professionals
  Exploration of the demoscene's creativity versus commercial game development. Discussion of potential for professional-quality programs by scene members. Call for collaboration with leading scene groups.
• Scene Chronicle - Андрей Савичев
  Reflections on ZX Spectrum's enduring appeal, its community's resilience, and its potential resurgence in Russia.
• Scene Chronology
  Overview of the Rush group's activities, including past projects, current endeavors, and future plans, with emphasis on software development and gaming.
• Scene Chronicles
  The article discusses various ZX Spectrum scene news, including game releases, demoparties, and updates from developers and teams.
• Chronicles of the Scene
  The article discusses the FUNTOP'98 international computer art festival held in Moscow, highlighting key events, notable attendees, and the various competitions held during the event.
• Scene Chronia
  Discussion on Amiga scene development through collaboration, addressing user isolation and promoting network expansion.
• Shell Management
  Статья описывает управление оболочкой для ZX Spectrum и Amiga, включая клавиши и функции для навигации. Упоминаются особенности работы на Amiga с PAL монитором и предоставляется контакт для поддержки. Также отмечено, что текстовые файлы имеют стандартную MS-DOS кодировку.