SoundTrack: COMP. BY DJ.DARKMAN/SSG OF COZ
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About the management in the DEJA VU shell.
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Starting from the fifth issue, two different shells are used in the magazine: the old one, which is little different from the shell of the fourth issue, and a completely new shell, which is specially written to support machines with 256k memory and above (Scorpion, PROFI, KAY, Pentagon 256/512, ATM, and Sprinter in emulation mode of the aforementioned machines, as well as for operation in Shalaev's emulator in PROFI mode).
Description of the new DEJA VU shell.
So, controlling the cursor:
1) Kempston mouse;
2) Right Sinclair joystick;
3) Kempston joystick;
4) Q,A,O,P - cursor movement;
SPACE,0,M - FIRE.
Hotkeys:
"EDIT","BREAK" - cancel the current function;
"W","UP" - to the beginning line by line;
"S","DOWN" - to the end line by line;
"E","LEFT","CS+3" - to the beginning page by page;
"D","RIGHT","CS+4" - to the end page by page;
"1" - turn off/on next music;
"2" - color/monochrome;
"SS+3" and "SS+S" - save the current text to disk!
Note: CS=Caps Shift
SS=Simbol Shift
CS+3=True Video
CS+4=Inv Video
UP,DOWN,LEFT,RIGHT=cursor keys.
How to move windows?
Position the cursor on the top left corner of the window, press fire - the window will be highlighted with a flashing frame. Then, using the "mouse" or the cursor movement keys, move the frame to the desired location and press fire (all in the best traditions of Work Bench or WINDOWS 59 - whatever you prefer).
How to work with Set Up?
Pressing fire outside the main menu or pressing "Cancel" will bring up a menu with five icons. I will describe them from left to right.
1) Application - it's simple.
2) Music work menu:
a) "turn off/on next" - "press" once to turn off the music, "press" a second time to turn on the next one, a total of 19 tunes! The author of the music is displayed in the text in the very first line! More precisely, not the author, but the information contained in the music itself. The same effect is achieved by pressing the "1" key in text mode;
b) "turn off auto change" - after "pressing" this "button", when loading the next article, the music will not change;
c) "turn on auto change" - everything is the opposite - the music will change when loading the next article.
3) Color parameters work menu:
a) "black-and-white/color" - that's how it is;
b) "active window color" - select color for the window available for work;
c) "inactive windows color" - select color for windows not available for work;
d) "Background color" - select color for the picture.
4) "Mouse" menu (at the request of viewers):
a) "turn on mouse" - if the Kempston mouse is not connected, there will be a glitch;
b) "turn off mouse" - it won't be polled - press without fear!
5) Set Up - the most important:
a) "save" - all colors, window positions, and music state (on/off) will be saved in the setup sector;
b) "load" - all parameters will be loaded from the setup sector;
c) "standard" - factory parameters.
Note: settings are recorded at level #3D13, when loading the magazine, the setup sector is read first.
How to achieve frame scrolling in line-by-line movement mode?
First of all, it should be explained that frame scrolling is when the printing of the page is done in one interrupt (1/50 sec.) Frame scrolling in the magazine is only possible in TURBO mode. In Scorpion, TURBO mode is enabled programmatically! If you do not have a turbocharged machine, everything will work in two frames, and there is a chance (very small) of corrupting two bytes in the screen area!
What else is there in the new shell?
A new Screen Saver. There is now an exit from the Saver by mouse movement! A request for confirmation of saving text to disk! The cursor now changes depending on the function being performed in that area! Therefore, there is no point in describing the zones in the text, although they are the same as in the old shell! Some semblance of a Scroll Bar has been implemented; you need to position the cursor on the scale-indicator in the upper right corner of the screen and press FIRE - you will get to the corresponding area of the text. You can even try to move the cursor without releasing FIRE up/down! I will emphasize again that this is an additional function and is mainly intended for quick navigation to the beginning/end of the text! That's all I have on the new shell!
* * *
Description of the old shell.
Initially, the design and management in the shell were designed by me based on the convenience of work, modern appearance, as well as based on user requirements for electronic publications. So, you can control the cursor in the magazine using the following devices:
1) KEMPSTON MOUSE
2) KEMPSTON JOYSTICK
3) RIGHT SINCLAIR JOYSTICK
4) KEYBOARD (Q,A,O,P,SPACE)
5) CURSOR JOYSTICK
KEMPSTON MOUSE - the first pressed button becomes the "FIRE" button, the opposite button becomes the "CANCEL" button accordingly. This applies to the two outer buttons; the middle button is not polled.
KEMPSTON JOYSTICK - polled via port #1F. If your KEMPSTON is connected to port #DF, it may also work, but it's not guaranteed!
RIGHT SINCLAIR JOYSTICK - or keys 6,7,8,9,0 - I don't think there will be any problems!
KEYBOARD (Q,A,O,P,SPACE) - If you have completely absent all joysticks and the mouse, you will have to poke these buttons!
CURSOR JOYSTICK - analog of the cursor keys, "0"-FIRE!
Polling of the left SINCLAIR JOYSTICK is not supported (because it is left-handed!), PROTEC JOYSTICK (because I don't know how to poll it), "AY"-MOUSE (since M.IWAMOTO said that it's not branded!), as well as "keys" S,X,O,P,M! In addition, starting from the second issue, "hot" keys have been implemented in the magazine:
"EDIT" - cancel the current function;
"BREAK" - cancel the current function;
"W" - to the beginning line by line;
"S" - to the end line by line;
"E" - to the beginning page by page;
"D" - to the end page by page;
"1" - turn on/off music;
"2" - color/monochrome;
"3" - save the current text to disk!
It should be noted that SAVE TEXT works at level #3D13, so this function is characterized by all erroneous situations of TR-DOS. No confirmation request is displayed! Be careful! The text is saved in the ZX Ibm text editor format; if you need IS-DOS format, then at the end of the file, using the monitor, set code #03! Before unloading the text, "drying" of the text occurs, i.e., all control codes and graphics are removed! This procedure takes a considerable amount of time (up to 10 seconds), depending on the length of the text! Also, the text can be saved by "pressing" the icon with the letter "S". Almost anywhere, pressing FIRE leads to the execution of some function. If you "poke" away from the menu, another menu will appear! If you doubt your actions, don't be afraid to press an unfamiliar "button" or "icon" - nothing terrible will happen! In text viewing mode (i.e., when you have selected an article), there are some peculiarities. A well-established method of splitting the text window into zones, implemented in ZX-Format, is applied. Pressing FIRE in these zones leads to line-by-line or page-by-page scrolling of the text up or down. The zones look as follows:
TEXT WINDOW:
┌───────────────────┬────────────────────┐
│ │ / │
│ / │ / │
│ TO THE BEGINNING │ TO THE BEGINNING │
│ LINE BY LINE │ PAGE BY PAGE │
│ │ │
├───────────────────┼────────────────────┤
│ │ │
│ TO THE END │ TO THE END │
│ LINE BY LINE │ PAGE BY PAGE │
│ / │ / │
│ │ / │
└───────────────────┴────────────────────┘
I think that dividing the text window into zones in this way is more logical than in the ZX-Format we all respect. Starting from the second issue, another additional mode has been implemented - the image viewing mode. Here too, everything is very simple, the zones look like this:
GRAPHIC WINDOW:
┌────────────────────────────────────────┐
│ │
│ To the previous picture │
│ / │
│ / │
│ │
├────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ │
│ / │
│ / │
│ To the next picture │
│ │
└────────────────────────────────────────┘
Exiting the mode - "BREAK" and "EDIT", in addition, "hot" keys work:
"W" and "E" - to the previous picture;
"S" and "D" - to the next picture.
Next, one more point. In text viewing mode, pressing CANCEL leads to exit to the shell. As I already said, for the mouse, CANCEL is one of the buttons, and for the keyboard, CANCEL is BREAK and EDIT. With the "icons" - switches MUSIC ON/OFF and COLOUR/MONOCHROME, I think you will figure it out without problems; I will just say that these functions are available both from the shell and from the text viewing mode. As is often the case, there will be people who like a lot, as well as those who do not like a lot. So, write without hesitation, we are not mean and do not bite, and no letter will be left unattended! You will find the editorial addresses in the section "FROM THE AUTHORS". Starting from the fourth issue, to change the music, it is enough to press the "music on/off" button twice or the "1" key in text viewing mode! That's all I wanted to say about the shell and management in it.
Contents of the publication: Deja Vu #05
- Аперативчик - Max
Detailed instructions on managing the DEJA VU interface, highlighting different input methods and navigation commands. Explanation of the new and old interfaces for enhanced user experience. Discussion on additional features like frame scrolling and music management.
- Аперативчик - Max
Discussion on supporting machines with more than 128k memory, leading to separate shells for 128k and 256k systems. Testing was mainly done on Scorpion and Profi, with functionality on other models anticipated. Article includes guidance on unpacking source files and insights on using improved algorithms.
- Тема - M.M.A
This article explores the theory behind digitizing sound on ZX Spectrum, focusing on sampling and quantization processes. It provides practical insights into converting sound files using specific hardware and software. Additionally, it offers methods to enhance sound quality while working within the hardware limitations.
- Theme
The article discusses the Save Our Scene initiative aimed at uniting Spectrum users and developers to promote software distribution and enhance the scene's development.
- Charter of the Amazing Soft Making Association
Discussion of the founding charter of the Amazing Soft Making association, detailing its goals, membership criteria, and operational principles.
- Theory of Magazine Creation
The article provides a detailed guide for aspiring magazine creators, focusing on technical aspects such as interface design, memory management, text formatting, and music integration for ZX Spectrum publications.
- Solder Drop
The article provides a personal account of purchasing and using the General Sound device for ZX Spectrum, detailing installation and sound performance. It discusses the initial issues encountered and praises the enhanced audio experience in compatible games. The author encourages further software adaptation for the device and reflects on multimedia capabilities with simultaneous hardware use.
- Solder Drop
The article discusses the capabilities of Sound Forge 4.0c for professional audio processing on PCs, highlighting its extensive features such as sound editing, effects, and restoration tools.
- SOFTWARE
The article reviews the latest software developments for the ZX Spectrum from Samara, including updates to MAXSOFT SCREEN PACKER, File Commander, and new applications like S-Terminal.
- SOFTWARE - Card!nal
Review and walkthrough of the logical graphic adventure game 'Operation R.R.' with detailed level instructions. Discussion on game elements like music choice and graphic design. Mentions new coder MAX/CYBERAX/BINARY DIMENSION's involvement.
- SOFTWARE
Discussion on the current state and evolution of the demoscene, highlighting the rise of 4K intros and upcoming competitions like FUNTOP'98.
- CODING
Article discusses assembly language coding techniques for optimizing screen scrolling on ZX Spectrum, featuring example code and performance analysis.
- CODING - RLA
The article explores stack manipulation techniques during second type interrupts for graphical effects on ZX Spectrum. It discusses solutions for preserving data integrity when interrupts disrupt graphical operations. Practical examples are provided to handle stack issues efficiently.
- CODING
The article describes the MS-PACK packer and its DEPACKER, detailing usage scenarios and providing BASIC and assembly code examples for handling packed files. It emphasizes optimizing performance by allowing unpacking with interrupts enabled and separating the DEPACKER from packed files. Additionally, it includes insights on programming techniques for loading and executing BASIC files on ZX Spectrum.
- CODING
The article discusses various coding techniques for ZX Spectrum, focusing on sprite rendering, rotation algorithms, and optimization methods to enhance performance.
- ANOTHER WORLD
Discussion on the evolution of multimedia technologies and their impact on various fields, including education and entertainment. It covers advances in computer hardware and software that have facilitated the integration of audio, video, and text. The article reflects on past developments and speculates on the future of multimedia systems.
- ANOTHER WORLD
Comparison of PC and Amiga systems highlighting performance, software costs, and user experience with multimedia capabilities.
- Honor Roll
Interview with PROGRESS discusses their creative journey on ZX Spectrum and AMIGA, addressing challenges in demomaking and the current state of the scene.
- Honor Roll
The article details the activities and future projects of the Eternity Industry team, based in Kovrov, including successful releases and collaborations with other groups.
- Honor Roll
Discussion of the Artcomp'98 festival, focusing on its mail-in format and guidelines for various competitions, including demo, graphics, and music categories.
- Honor Roll
The article provides a glossary of terms used in the demo scene, explaining roles such as musician, coder, and graphician, as well as different types of demos and effects. It serves as a useful resource for understanding the terminology and dynamics of the community. This is a descriptive piece aimed at educating readers about the jargon of the demo scene.
- Honor Roll
The article discusses the issues with mouse support in various ZX Spectrum magazines and the frustrations of users when encountering compatibility problems. It critiques developers for not adhering to standards, leading to poor user experiences. The author expresses the importance of consistent improvements in software for the ZX Spectrum community.
- Honor Board
The article discusses the process of creating tricolor images for ZX Spectrum using Photoshop and a simplified approach. It outlines how to divide an image into RGB channels and convert them for use on the Spectrum. Additionally, it provides tips on how to manage the files for optimal results.
- Honor Roll
The article discusses the comparison and perspectives on various computer systems, particularly emphasizing the strengths of AMIGA over PC and advocating for appreciation of all machines.
- Seven and a Half
Article discusses the humorous absurdities and peculiarities of military training and academia, blending satire with real anecdotes and witty observations.
- Seven and a Half
The article provides a satirical manual on programming methodologies, mocking the rigidity of formal programming practices and advocating for a more creative approach to coding.
- Seven and a Half
Instructions on safe sex practices, including guidelines on eligibility, preparation, and actions during and after the sexual session, along with handling emergency situations.
- Seven and a Half
The article discusses a call for a talented artist in Krasnodar for a ZX Spectrum group, raises concerns about the unethical practices of Scorpion regarding software rights, and critiques a video review of E'97.
- Seven and a Half
The article 'Семь и 1/2' narrates a humorous picnic adventure involving the editorial team of Deja Vu, highlighting their camaraderie and mishaps while preparing a barbecue.
- Trial of the Pen
The article is a humorous take on the fictional adventures of Winnie the Pooh as he interacts with computers and friends, discussing the absurdities of technology and daily life.
- First Pen
The article discusses the new section in Deja Vu dedicated to fantasy and science fiction literature, featuring book reviews and reader participation in content creation.
- Advertisement
The article is an advertisement section from Deja Vu #05, promoting collaborations with designers and musicians for future issues, and offering various software and hardware for ZX Spectrum.
- News
The article announces the launch of a new magazine, AMIGA RULES, focused on the AMIGA computer, addressing the lack of quality Russian-language publications. It aims to provide information on programming, hardware, software, and gaming, while fostering a community among AMIGA enthusiasts. The magazine will include contributions from readers and regular updates on the AMIGA scene.
