ZX Format #07: Critique of ZX-Spectrum Software and Tools

Software for ZX-Spectrum.

Gura Andrey (EAGLE SOFT) Kurgan music by COOPER

The purpose of this article is for all programmers and users to finally understand that the vast majority of application and system programs (I don't want to offend anyone) are complete nonsense and rubbish. By keeping these programs, they waste what no one ever has enough of - namely space (disk space, etc.)

Graphic editors music by _

Many keep 100 versions of ARTSTUDIO and ARTIST editors. If you are in such a situation, then not everything is so dire. Because you can easily find ARTSTUDIO version 128k (if you have those "k") and delete everything else. You might ask: - Is that all? Will there be a more powerful editor?

- There won't be! I will answer. And there won't be one because ARTSTUDIO is already the most powerful graphic editor. Even IBM folks would like to have such an editor instead of Paint Brush and others.

And for those who sit all day scratching their heads, pondering what cool thing to create for Speccy, I will say that vector and three-dimensional graphic editors would not be superfluous. But I beg you, if you belong to the above-described category of people, then don't even try to create these editors because you won't come up with anything worthwhile. This also applies to those who have "seen" a computer for the first time.

By the way, a three-dimensional graphics editor exists, with its help games like DRILLER, DARK SIDE, CARRIER COMMAND, and others were made.

I want to add right away, delete all known font editors (and there are many, PROFESSIONAL FONT EDITOR is one of them), because you can create fonts in ARTSTUDIO. Do the same with sprite generators and editors. You only need a program that allows you to cut out sprites easily (as in Artstudio when working with windows), the rest will be taken care of, of course not without your help, by the Artstudio editor.

Assemblers

This is the most painful topic for ZX-Spectrum. The fact is that there is no assembler for Speccy. You immediately have a question: - What about GENS, TASM, MASM, and others? And how did all the games, demos, and various applications appear? Apparently, our programmers do not quite understand what an assembler is and have slapped countless TASM's, XAS's, ZXASSM's. In reality, these are just text editors with the ability to assemble text, the assembly process is fast, but what is the effectiveness of these assemblers? They have a huge number of disadvantages: the texts of all these "assemblers" are incompatible, the number of labels and macro definitions is limited, arithmetic capabilities are very limited, line numbering (this is very inconvenient when creating large programs, label length is no more than 8 characters, etc.). And understand that the speed of assembly is not the main thing!

From everything said above, one conclusion can be drawn - a real assembling program should look as follows (using the M80 assembler as an example): a separate program that assembles text typed in a standard text editor; able to work with a large number of labels and macros; working with arithmetic functions; label length up to 14 characters (it can be more, but there is no need to race for label length); the presence of the REPT directive. For those who do not know what REPT is, I explain. REPT is short for REPEAT, which means repeat in translation. By typing a simple combination:

REPT 32 
LDI 
ENDM 

you will save yourself from the tedious typing of 32 lines of LDI and save a lot of time.

And those who still did not understand anything or on the contrary want to learn more about the M80 assembler, I advise you to read its description. You will be amazed by all its capabilities: global labels, the ability to use procedures that you have long written and are in another file (included files), and much more.

P.S.: Owners of PROFI computers have long been using M80 in CP/M mode. And are very satisfied.

Music editors

There are two types of editors: INTERRUPT and DIGITAL.

The INTERRUPT type includes editors like ASM, SOUND TRACKER, SOUND TRACKER PRO. Among them, the most powerful editor is, of course, SOUND TRACKER PRO.

The DIGITAL type includes editors like DIGITAL STUDIO, INSTRUMENT, and DMM. INSTRUMENT does not have a compiler, so its use in programs is excluded. I prefer the DIGITAL STUDIO editor more. But I believe that digital music has no future on ZX-Spectrum, as playing music takes almost 100% of Z80's performance. And GENERAL SOUND is not as cool a concept as it is described in ZX-FORMAT, and many programmers and circuit designers understand this.

Other programs

There are several text editors on Spectrum, such as TLW, ZX-WORD, and others. But the standard for ZX-Spectrum should be the Speccy write editor. It has many good qualities: working with KOI and ALT; the ability to format text as you wish; the presence of all characters of the Russian and Latin alphabets, as well as graphic symbols.

There are also few good programs designed for printing texts and pictures on a printer. Their shortcomings are usually the same: inability to work with a printer through an external driver; inconvenience of work, incompatibility.

There are many programs for compressing graphic images, but the compression ratio is usually low. The best program for compressing pictures is COMPRES+. Its feature is that it compresses an image in 4 ways and selects the best one for that image.

Well, that's all. I think that after reading this article, you will free up quite a bit of space on your disks. And for those who want to learn more about the M80 assembler and the Profi computer, or just decided to write, here are my coordinates:

640011 Kurgan, 
Dostoevsky St. 76a-18, 
EAGLE SOFT 

P.S.: If I offended anyone, I apologize!

P.S.S.: But I am right in any case!

It seems that a person rummaged through their 10-year-old disks and proclaimed: I have seen everything that exists on Spectrum and I know that it is rubbish!

One can only sympathize with the author of this opus and wish them to read more instructions for new (and old) programs.

P.S. The author's spelling has been preserved as much as possible.

Contents of the publication: ZX Format #07

• From the Authors
  Update on SMUC, distribution issues, and plans for future ZX Format issues. Authors address outdated SMUC info and distribution problems of ZF-6. Upcoming content includes game descriptions and new projects.
• Аторы журнала
  Contact information and editorial team details for ZX-Format No.7. Provides mailing and electronic addresses, as well as contact phone numbers. Information on the availability of their website and specific contact instructions.
• Содержание номера
  The article provides an overview of notable software releases on the St. Petersburg market for autumn. It also includes detailed descriptions of games, programming tips, and hardware projects. Interviews, philosophical tales, and reader letters enrich the issue.
• Игрушки - Welcome
  An overview of software novelties for ZX Spectrum, including games like 'Los Angeles Drugs Bust' and 'Jungle Warfare'. Each game description provides insights into graphics, gameplay, and features. A variety of genres from action to strategy are covered, showcasing the diversity of software offerings.
• Игрушки - Алешкин А.В.
  The article describes the game 'TAI-PAN' as an arcade-economic game set in the 19th-century East, focusing on trading and survival amidst pirates and danger. It details the gameplay mechanics, such as trading goods, managing finances, and navigating seas with different ships. Despite its engaging plot and interface, the game didn't achieve much popularity in Russia.
• Игрушки - Soft
  A whimsical narrative in a fantastical world where colors converse with the Last, a character recounting tales of ancient humans, coders, and a mysterious past. The story explores themes of language, translation, and the creation of 'the Last' amidst fantastical beings like flying hippos and sea giraffes. It serves as a fictional narrative with humorous elements, blending science fiction with satire.
• Игрушки - Alex ASP
  A parody on Tolkien's 'The Lord of the Rings' named 'Bored of the Rings' by Delta 4 is explored. The text references adaptations, humorous adventures of characters like Fordo and Bimbo, and differing versions from Delta 4 over the years. Anticipated prequels and correspondence excerpts with Delta 4's Fergus McNeill are mentioned.
• Игрушки - Гил-Гелад
  The article provides a detailed guide on navigating the 3D Construction Kit interface for ZX Spectrum. It explains menu options for file management, game setup, and in-game conditions. Additionally, it covers object creation, editing, and logic implementation within the program.
• Программистам - Дмитрий Рудовский
  The article concludes the description of BB commands and provides tips on their usage. It details the usage of the CLOCK command for time and alarm management on ZX Spectrum. Additionally, it explains the SORT command for array sorting and introduces new logical and mathematical functions.
• Программистам - Angel
  Introduction to assembly programming for beginners, covering basic concepts and commands. Detailed explanation of processor registers and flags, with examples. Offers practical advice on transitioning from Basic to assembly language.
• Программистам - GreenFort
  Discussion on fast calculations in assembler for tasks like vector graphics and astronomy. Describes procedures for binary division and multiplication, with examples for different byte sizes. Highlights the adaptability of these methods for increased precision.
• Программистам - TP, Stinger
  Detailed technical description of the Mod file format for music composition on ZX Spectrum, focusing on structure and data offsets for title, instruments, and patterns.
• Программистам - Research
  The article describes the capabilities and limitations of the Convert program, focusing on its use for converting images to the BMC format. It includes technical details about the program's functions, such as dithering methods, sprite and screen format output, and the removal of extraneous dots. Additionally, the article briefly discusses the source code of X-Color and its potential applications.
• Обзор
  The article discusses the ENLiGHT'97 demo-party held in St. Petersburg on August 24, 1997, featuring platforms like Spectrum, Amiga, and PC. The event attracted around 1100 delegates, leading to overcrowding and technical issues, which caused the cancellation of the second day. Despite these issues, the event was generally enjoyable, and there is hope for another event in 1998.
• Обзор
  Review of VideoFAIR exhibition in Manezh with highlights on video and audio equipment. Amiga-service and various companies showcased their technological advancements in video editing and broadcast systems. Notable innovations include 3D laser-scanned displays and professional audio solutions.
• Железо - Nemo
  Discussion of KAY technology export to decentralize Spectrum production. Highlights potential benefits and challenges of local manufacturing. Emphasizes quality assurance and support systems.
• Железо
  The article describes the development of a new Scorpion motherboard, focusing on enhancing graphics, speed, and compatibility with modern peripherals like IBM keyboards and mice. It introduces the GMX (Graphic Memory Extension) board, designed to upgrade existing Scorpion models to match the capabilities of the new motherboard. The GMX board offers significant improvements in memory, graphics, and processing speed, while maintaining compatibility with ZX Spectrum and Pentagon standards.
• Железо
  The article provides a detailed overview of two popular audio amplifiers for ZX Spectrum users in St. Petersburg. It highlights the advantages and specifications of the 2 X 2W low-voltage amplifier and the 2 X 22W car amplifier. The article also includes a price list and ordering instructions through the 'Nemo' company.
• Примьера
  The article describes the improvements and features of the Turbo Assembler version 1.1 for ZX Spectrum. It highlights the differences from version 1.0, such as bug fixes, screen size changes, and added features like line editor and syntax checking. It also details the memory allocation and provides a guide on using the editor and compiler functions.
• Примьера - STS
  Description of the Riff Tracker MOD-editor for General Sound, its features, and functionalities. Provides detailed instructions on using editing and sample management. Notes on the current version limitations and expected improvements.
• Примьера - Paul Atrides, Alex Noman
  Presentation of Oberon Creative Pack, consisting of ZX-WinWord and Sprite Cutter. ZX-WinWord is a text editor combining text and graphics with advanced features. Sprite Cutter allows sprite creation and manipulation in various formats.
• Примьера
  Presentation of the second demo version of the game Headball by ZX-Masters, discussing its features and improvements since the first demo. The game offers two-player mode, four levels, three types of projectiles, various options, and computer difficulty settings. Availability of Turbo mode and enhanced synchronization and animation make it unique among other Spectrum games.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with Digital Reality about ongoing projects like DOOM and Paradise Lost. Discussion of challenges and progress in game development. Preview of their submissions for the ENLiGHT event.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with members of the newly formed group EXTREME. They work on demos for Spectrum and Amiga platforms and discuss their team members and activities. The interview also touches upon the state of the Amiga scene in Moscow.
• Интервью - Борис Прытков
  Interview with Samara-based Spectrum enthusiasts discussing their achievements and challenges. Emphasis on community building and publication of Oberon magazine. Efforts to establish a Spectrum network and convert the game WALKER.
• Интервью - Борис Прытков
  The article is an interview with members of the group Flash inc. discussing their projects for ZX Spectrum and PC, including a music editor with an innovative interface and a new multicolor graphic editor.
• Интервью - Михаил Акимов
  Interview with Moscow-based group Progress discussing their current work on Spectrum demos, plans for future projects on Amiga, and opinions on the Russian demoscene.
• Интервью - Михаил Акимов
  Interview with Felix about changes in the tech landscape, the enduring appeal of Amiga despite PC dominance, and his work on 'Winnie the Pooh - 2' for Spectrum.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with Slash about the ENLiGHT event, including sponsorship issues, attendee behavior, and the quality of music and demos. Discussion of the current state of the Spectrum and Amiga markets. Commentary on music trackers and the future of hardware development.
• Интервью - Ruster
  Interview with V. Mednonogov after ENLiGHT'97 discussing impressions of the event, future of Spectrum, and his current project 'Black Raven'. Mednonogov shares his views on new hardware and software development and the importance of copyright. He also discusses his plans for upcoming projects and the challenges faced in game development.
• Здесь был ты
  A satirical guide to gaining power and invisibility using magical rituals and Orbit gum.
• Здесь был ты - Saggitarius
  A contemplative novella about a man's existential journey after encountering a mysterious individual offering a device called the Stop Crane. Through flashbacks, the protagonist reflects on his life, uniqueness, and his desire to break free from societal constraints. Ultimately, he faces the moral dilemma of using the Stop Crane to transcend time and existence.
• Почта - Eagle Soft
  Critique of ZX-Spectrum software, highlighting the limitations of current programs and recommending the removal of outdated tools. Discussion on the limitations of assembly programs and the need for more efficient assemblers like M80. Evaluation of current music and graphic editors, with a focus on the redundancy of certain applications.
• Почта
  Discussion of reader inquiries on ZX Format distribution and content. Responses include details on acquiring issues and technical insights on the KAY-256 computer. The magazine also addresses criticism of its market outlook article.
• Почта
  This advertisement highlights XL Design Inc.'s software distribution campaign, offering games like 'Plutonia' and upcoming releases such as 'Mortal Kombat'. Mouse controllers are promoted with humorous selling points and pricing details. Studio LOGROS provides a wide range of software and peripherals, with options for local and remote purchases.
• Разное - Александр Сысоев
  The article discusses the creation of an RPG game by the OBERON GROUP, inspired by 'Eye of Beholder'. It describes the game's humorous plot set in a distant galaxy and the battle against invaders on a planet named Agima. The team invites musicians, artists, coders, and scriptwriters for collaboration.
• Разное - Viator
  The article describes the development of a new graphics editor called STATE OF THE ART for ZX Spectrum, aiming to improve upon existing editors like ART-STUDIO and ARTIST-2. The team AVALON, inspired by feedback from the SPECCY artist community, incorporates features from editors on Amiga and PC, while also addressing specific user requests. Key features include a user-friendly interface, enhanced magnify mode, advanced shape and window manipulation, and optimized performance.
• Разное
  Discussion on enhancing consumer quality of Spectrum computers without altering their technical specifications. Suggestions include improving existing support, developing platform ideology, and structural changes. The article also touches on the potential of electronic books and their commercial viability.
• Amiga Club - Максим Петров
  The article describes the author's admiration for the Amiga computer, emphasizing its aesthetic and technical merits compared to other platforms. It explores the author's programming experiences on Amiga, highlighting its efficiency and the impressive capabilities of its new hardware upgrades. The article concludes by reflecting on the unique community and passion of Amiga enthusiasts.