2.2 - MULTI-PLATFORM BBS SOFTWARE - THE OFFICIAL BBS FAQ

Table of Contents	01	02	03	04	05	06	07	08	09	10	11	12	13	14	15	I	II	III

Chapter 2 TOC	para 2.1	para 2.2	para 2.3	para 2.4	para 2.5

************************************************************ T-H-E O-F-F-I-C-I-A-L B-B-S F-A-Q ********************************************************** CHAPTER 2 - PC COMMERCIAL BBS SOFTWARE ********************************************************** 2.2 - MULTI-PLATFORM BBS SOFTWARE [2.2.01] - BBBS [2.2.02] - FIRSTCLASS SERVER [2.2.03] - PCBOARD BBS [2.2.04] - SEARCHLIGHT BBS [2.2.05] - WILDCAT! ************************************************************
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= 2.2 - MULTI-PLATFORM BBS SOFTWARE =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= [2.2.01] - BBBS HOME: http://www.bbbs.net/ --------------------------------------------------------------- [2.2.02] - FIRSTCLASS SERVER Macintosh users: For information about Softarc see section; [7.4.02] - FirstClass SoftArc Announces Windows Version of Leading Workgroup Communication Server FirstClass Server for Microsoft Windows to Offer Same E-Mail, Conferencing, Database and Remote Access Functions as Best-Selling Macintosh Product MARKHAM, Ontario - SoftArc Inc., a leading developer and manufacturer of enterprise-wide, cross-platform group communication software, today announced a version of its popular FirstClass enterprise communications server for Microsoft Windows. In conjunction with SoftArc's FirstClass client software - already available for Windows, Macintosh and terminal emulation environments - the new FirstClass Windows server will offer sites with PC servers the full power of FirstClass (previously Macintosh server-based). SoftArc's president, Steven Asbury, acknowledged the influence of strong customer demand in the company's decision to release a Windows server version. "The installed base of FirstClass users has grown rapidly since the product's release three years ago - in fact doubling to over 2,000,000 user licenses in the last year. While this currently makes FirstClass the best-selling group communication software package, we believe there is an even greater pent up demand based on the number of customers requesting a Windows version of our plug-and-play FirstClass server. This new product will allow us to satisfy that demand." The FirstClass Windows server will require a 386 or better CPU running at least Windows 3.1, and will recognize popular PC serial expansion hardware for support of multiple modems. When running under Windows NT, the FirstClass server will offer higher performance and support for additional simultaneous users. FirstClass servers optimized for Windows NT and Windows 95 will be made available following this initial product release. Users of existing FirstClass client software will be able to transparently connect to either the new Windows server or existing Macintosh servers. The Windows server will seamlessly integrate with existing FirstClass servers by network, WAN or modem connection for e-mail exchange and discussion database replication. As with the Macintosh product, the new FirstClass server will accommodate modem and multiprotocol network connections (IPX, NetBIOS, TCP/IP and AppleTalk) as well as take advantage of asynchronous disk I/O and other advanced file system features supported by Windows. While the FirstClass Windows server will work with existing FirstClass gateways, third party developers are working on Windows versions of their shipping FirstClass products. TGF Technologies of Burlington, Vermont, Delphic Software of Redlands, California and World Connect of Toronto all plan to release Windows versions of their FirstClass gateways and extensions. The FirstClass Windows server is now in beta testing and is scheduled for volume shipment in the second quarter of 1995. The price will be the same as SoftArc's current server for Macintosh, available for $690 with licensing for 10 users. Additional platform and protocol options and user licenses will be sold separately. FirstClass is the leading cross-platform, enterprise-wide group communication system, with 2.5 million user licenses sold worldwide. FirstClass integrates state-of-the-art e-mail with group conferencing, access to existing corporate databases, forms processing, real-time discussions and on-line communications functions. FirstClass offers the same ease of use, functionality and robust performance over network or modem, and operates in Macintosh, Windows, DOS, OS/2 and terminal emulation environments. The product is available in 12 languages and is used by businesses, educational institutions, governments and private individuals in more than 30 countries. SoftArc is headquartered in Markham, Ontario, Canada. SoftArc Inc. Global Area Communications SoftArc Inc. 100 Allstate Parkway Markham, Ontario CANADA L3R 6H3. SoftArc Inc. 1902 Ridge Road, #325, West Seneca, New York, USA, 14224 Tel: 905-415-7000 Fax: 905-415-7151 FirstClass: 905-415-7070 Internet: sales@softarc.com WWW: http://www.softarc.com --------------------------------------------------------------- [2.2.03] - PCBOARD BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * FEATURES * REQUIREMENTS * PCBoard ADD-ONS * PCBoard unregisterable ------------------------------------------ ------------ * FEATURES ------------ - Packet switch support - Full Internationalization of dates & code page - FOSSIL support for virtually any intelligent serial card(/M code) - File attachment to messages - Multiple daily events - Full support for 2 byte international character sets - Built-in .QWK message packet support - Jukebox & "slow" CD-ROM support - Incoming Fax support - Carbon-Copy list support - Return Receipt message support - Caller-ID support - ALIAS support by conference area - RIPscrip support for remote callers - PPL (PCBoard Programming Language Compiler) (Optional) - Automatic 16550 UART recognition & support - Intelligent & non-intelligent multi-port serial card support - Full screen text editor - ANSI graphics support - Full color operation - Thread reading of messages - Supports up to 65,535 conference (message base) areas - 36 file transfer protocols supported - Supports 37,767 DOORS per conference - Real-Time 255 channel node chat (CB chat) - Long message headers for all NetMail programs including Internet, Usenet & others. - Local network logins for in-house e-mail support - Direct connect support for in-house serial networks & PADS - Communicates directly with OS/2 COMM drivers to allow large number of multiple nodes under OS/2 - Automatically detects OS/2 operation for time-slice control - Full network support for any NetBIOS compatible network, including Netware, LAN tastic, 3-Com, Vines & more. - Full remote DOS access for SysOp if desired - True & complete multi-lingual language support --------------- * REQUIREMENTS --------------- IBM PC compatible Minimum 320k RAM DOS 3.1 or higher Modem to support remote dial-in - PCBoard/M Needs 80386 CPU or higher since code is written using 80386 instructions for maximum speed. ------------------- * PCBoard ADD-ONS ------------------ * PPL Compiler The PPL Compiler allows you to change or add features to your PCBoard system. Simply write your code in a BASIC like language, compile, and attach your results to PCBoard. * PCBoard Toolkit The PCBoard Toolkit allows you to write extensive DOOR programs in either C or C++ (Borland or MS). Clark Development provides all the communication, display and file routines needed to produce a truly professional PCBoard DOOR program. PCBoard Bulletin Board Software ------------------------------- PCBoard was a premiere Bulletin Board System (BBS Software), which set the standard for the BBS industry from 1983 untill 1995. PCBoard supports dial-in and local connections, and can be telneted using a third party telnet driver. PCBoard includes support for standard and non-standard COM ports, plus intelligent and non-intelligent multi-port hardware. PCBoard was available in 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 250, 1000 and 1000+ node (concurrent users) packages. PCBoard supports as many as 16 dial-in lines on a single PC using Multi-port hardware with OS/2 or DESQview. PCBoard includes support for 255 channel node chat (CB Chat), RIP 1.54 Graphics, Multiple Languages, QWK Message Packets, 65,535 Conferences, up to 36 File Transfer Protocols, ------------------------- * PCBoard is Discontinued ------------------------- PCBoard can no longer be purchased. Clark Development filed for bankrupcy in 1995, and the software is no longer being supported or developed. Their last known address was: Clark Development Company Inc. Voice: 801-261-1686 3950 South 700 East Suite 303 FAX: 801-261-8987 Murray, UT 84107-2173 Orders: 800-356-1686 http://www.pcboard.com Telnet: bbs.pcboard.com Sales: sales@saltair.com This was their last known price list: Products DOS/WIN/OS/2 --------------------------------------------------------------- PCBoard 2 User $ 99.00 PCBoard 5 User $ 149.00 PCBoard 10 User $ 199.00 PCBoard 25 User $ 249.00 PCBoard 50 User $ 299.00 PCBoard 100 User $ 399.00 PCBoard 250 User $ 499.00 PCBoard 1000 User $ 999.00 All Packages include the PCBoard Programming Language (PPLC) PCBoard Internet Collection (PCB/IC) $ 99.00 MetaWorlds Personal Server (2 user) $ 99.00 MetaWorlds Community Server (8 user) $ 249.00 MetaWorlds Enterprise Server (Unlimited) $ 499.00 PCBoard MetaWorlds Interface Kit $ 199.00 MetaWorlds Client/Server Option $ 199.00 MetaWorlds Developers Kit $ 299.00 PCBoard Toolkit ($150 with PCBoard Purchase) $ 179.00 DOORWAY $ 40.00 PCBoard World Wide T-Shirt $ 17.50 PCBoard CD-Rom $ 49.00 ---------------------------------------------------------------- [2.2.04] - SEARCHLIGHT BBS TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: CONTACT INFO * Searchlight BBS Version * Files available at the Searchlight web site * Feature Summary * Searchlight Benefits * Specifications * RIP Graphics * Full-Screen Editor * Menu Building * Doors System * Modem/Serial Support * Message System * Users and Security * Electronic Mail * File Transfer System * Multilanguage Support * Sysop Utilities * Expandability * System Requirements * Upgrades and Technical Support * Searchlight Software Price List --------------------------------------------- ----------------- * CONTACT INFO ----------------- TeleGrafix Communications, Inc. 128 S. Loudoun St. Winchester, VA 22601 Sales: Voice: Fax: BBS: (540) 678-4051 (540) 678-4050 (540) 678-4052 (540) 678-4053 www.telegrafix.com ftp.telegrafix.com sales@telegrafix.com --------------------------- * Searchlight BBS Version --------------------------- Overview: Searchlight BBS was one of the 5 most popular BBS programs in the early to mid 1990s. A Computer, modem and phone line were all you need to set up a Searchlight BBS system featuring configurable menus, an easy to use interface, message conferences, file libraries, email, chatting, and more. You can even install optional programs, like databases, order entry systems and surveys. Your BBS can be used with just a modem -- or it can operate on the Internet using the Telnet protocol. Searchlight 5 gives you the best of both worlds: a DOS version you can run on older machines, and a 32-bit Windows version you can run on modern Windows 9x and Windows NT equipped PCs. The Win32 versions of Searchlight were first produced in 1995 by the original author, Frank LaRosa of Searchlight Software. This is one of the few Win32 BBS programs to fully support the RIP Graphics protocol, as well as providing a fossil aware telnet interface allowing DOS doors to run under dialup or telnet. In 1998 Searchlight BBS was taken over by Pat Clawson of TeleGrafix Communications, Inc.- the inventors of RIPscrip graphics. The crew over at Searchlight Software have decided to go off and do other things. Not wanting the product to die, they had looked for someone to carry on their torch. Telegrafix owner Pat Clawson purchased both Searchlight BBS and Spinnaker Web server for an undisclosed sum of money. Their new version 5.1 of Searchlight is both a demo edition, and the fully registered edition all in one. If you don't have the registration key, then the software will act as a demo copy allowing you play with up to 2 nodes, but only up to 3 user accounts (SYSOP and GUEST count as two of those) That's it. Enough to let you determine if you want to purchase Searchlight, but not enough to run a real system. ------------------------------------------------ * Files available at the Telegrafix web site ------------------------------------------------ Searchlight 5.1 Demo Software Various Support Files are available including upgrade patches, development tools and free add-ons. ------------------- * Feature Summary ------------------- Graphical Interface Easy to Use True GUI Interface Vector & Bitmapped Images Digital Sound Non-Proprietary Client Works with any RIP, ANSI or TTY terminal Graphical clients for Windows, DOS & Macintosh Fully Configurable Build Custom Menus Edit Prompts and Strings No complex script languages Nothing extra to buy External Doors Support Door.Sys, Dorinfo.Def, PCBoard.Sys Support Run any DOS Program Online Run Doors on the Same PC as Your BBS Fully Internet Compatible Integrated Support for Email and Newsgroups Supports Popular Telnet, FTP, WWW Addons ------------------------ * Searchlight Benefits ------------------------ An Easy to Use Interface: Many BBS programs let you use the Remote Imaging Protocol (RIP) to draw menus with graphics and mouse buttons. But that�s all they do. They don�t offer true GUI features like scrollbars or pick lists. And they can�t build RIP menus, so if you change their defaults, you have to purchase a paint program and draw the new screens yourself. Searchlight 5.1 has RIP support built-in, not tacked-on. Our fully graphical RIP interface lets you use a scroll bar to navigate through message lists and file directories. You can read messages and tag files with mouse clicks and select choices from pick lists, dialog boxes and graphical menus. And since Searchlight creates RIP on the fly, you can reconfigure your system without manually redrawing the screens. We can even incorporate your favorite RIP files automatically. And Searchlight is the only BBS software that gives you Local RIP Graphics -- so you can see and use the RIP graphics interface on your computer (or any computer on your LAN). Other BBS packages make you call your BBS from another computer if you want to see RIP, and they can�t give you a RIP interface at all if you�re using a LAN. RIPterm 3.0 Support: TeleGrafix RIPterm 3.0 is a non-proprietary host that supports multimedia objects like photographic quality images and sound effects -- and Searchlight 5.1 is the first and only BBS software to fully support RIPterm 3.0. You can display JPEG images, associate WAV sounds with events, and display any RIPterm 3.0 compatible file with Searchlight 5.1. The configuration program makes it easy to use images and sounds without learning the RIPscrip language or using an expensive RIP paint program. Just plug in your filenames and go! And Searchlight 5.1 supports both RIPterm 3.0 and RIPterm 1.54, so you can give your RIPterm 2.0 callers multimedia features without sacrificing support for callers using the older version of RIPterm. No other BBS software offers you this flexibility -- Searchlight does it automatically. Searchlight gives you simple, point and click customization so you can easily modify our menus, build new menu branches, change prompts and terminology, even redesign your entire system. Install doors and external utilities by typing the appropriate DOS commands into a form -- you don�t need to understand batch files or error levels. Install your modem with one keystroke -- we detect your modem brand and automatically make the optimal settings. Comprehensive Doors Support: A hobbyist might want to run external programs ("doors") to let callers play games. A business might need to let callers run custom applications online. Some BBS programs don�t support doors at all -- others make you purchase a shell utility (like Doorway). Searchlight supports the most popular door formats, so you can run programs made for any BBS system. And we�re the only BBS to include built-in support for DOS shells and text-based DOS programs. Just select the "direct video" option and you can run any DOS program online -- including programs like FoxPro, dBase, and Paradox or applications created with Clipper or Clarion. Internet Support: These days, the ability to interface to the global "information superhighway" is essential. Searchlight�s Uumail option offers seamless support for internet mail addresses, so you can send and receive internet messages as easily as you do local messages. Your callers don�t have to join a special conference or learn a special procedure to send internet mail. Just add a "send internet mail" button to your menu -- Searchlight does the rest! And when you�re ready to move beyond mail and usenet into the realm of ftp, telnet and world wide web, you�ll be glad that Searchlight is fully compatible and extensively field tested with quality third party internet utilities from companies like Murkworks, Zialink and Mystic Valley Communications. A Complete System: Some companies tried to sell stripped down packages and charge extra for the features you need most. Every copy of Searchlight 5.x includes our menu editor and language customization tools, the most popular file transfer protocols, Fossil and DigiBoard support, a QWK mail host, a built in DOS shell and a full set of Sysop utilities. We even include a free RIP terminal that you can distribute to your callers. ----------------- * Specifications ----------------- * RIP Graphics - RIPscrip v3.0 support. - Local RIP graphics on the BBS computer. - Automatic transfer feature that makes Searchlight faster in RIP mode by downloading frequently used menu files and icons on an as-needed basis. - Built-in RIP GUI features including scroll bars, pop-up menus and dialog boxes. - Full screen message and file browsers with mouse file tagging. - RIP menu designer and style editor. - Copy functions that allow you to easily duplicate existing RIP styles. - Automatic selection of RIP, ANSI or Ascii screens. - Regulate doors and menu choices by RIP availability or RIP version number. - Users can select large or small font for viewing and entering messages. * Full-Screen Editor - Supports most common cursor control keys, function keys and WordStar command sequences. - Uses full ANSI set for fast screen updating. - Mouse support (RIP & local). - Quote individual lines from original message. - Upload text with any internal protocol. * Menu Building - Create and edit menus with mouse-driven menu editing tool. - Copy functions that allow you to easily duplicate existing menus. - Up to 64 commands per menu with no limit to total number of menus in system. - Nest menus up to 40 levels deep. - Over 100 internal command functions can be arranged in any way you choose. - Add door programs to any menu. - Execute up to 64 commands in sequence. - Regulate access to commands and menus by 10 criteria, including RIP version. - Design custom RIP, ANSI or Ascii screens for any menu (or use built-in displays). - A point-and-click method of assigning conferences and file directories to any menu. * Doors System - Run any text based DOS application online without third-party add-on products. - FOSSIL emulation feature that lets you run doors and other programs that require a Fossil driver through Searchlight's built-in communications drivers or DigiBoard ports. - Compatible with most existing Door products. - Emulates DOOR.SYS, PCBOARD.SYS, DORINFO.DEF. - Built-in DOS shell capability. - Write your own door programs without serial programming. * Modem/Serial Support - Supports any base address and interrupt (IRQ). - 16550 buffered UART support. - FOSSIL driver support. - Support for Intelligent DigiBoard multiport cards. - Support for intelligent Equinox multiport cards. - Support for generic BIOS/INT14 drivers. - Recognizes all connect speeds up to 28,800. - Supports locked baud rates up to 115,200. - Hands-free automatic modem configuration. * Message System - An "instant reply" feature for chat messages that lets you chat without interrupting your work in progress. - No limit to number of conferences or messages per conference - "One file per conference" storage architecture offers the best combination of speed, size and reliability - Fast message searching in headers and/or text - Indexed personal message scans - Full thread maintenance including global thread operations (kill, forward, download entire threads) - Message forwarding, carbon copy, text upload & download, auto purge of old messages - Attach binary files to messages - Support for much larger messages. * Users and Security - Unlimited number of user accounts. - Encrypted user passwords for maximum security. - 24 independent security flags plus 256 levels. - Over 16 million security combinations. - Regulate access to conferences, file areas, menu choices, doors, menu branches, quoting, netmail features, and more. - Read-only conference areas. - Upload-only and download-only file directories. - Mutually exclusive security groups. - Alias names. - Caller ID logging. * Electronic Mail - True private mailboxes for each user - Read new mail automatically at log-in - Recipient name lookup and name completion - Internet address support - Multizone (4D) Netmail support - Carbon copy, alias and group names - Automatic mail logging feature * File Transfer System - Unlimited number of directories and files. - All directories indexed by name and date. - Files from multiple DOS directories may be combined into a single Searchlight directory. - Individual file passwords. - Copy, delete, rename and move files. - View internal directories of ZIP, LZH, ARJ and SQZ files. - File descriptions up to 400 lines. - Dynamic download counts in directory listings. - Tag files with mouse clicks or single-keystrokes. - Built in Zmodem, Xmodem/CRC & Xmodem/1K. - Up to 15 external protocols supported including HSLink. - Auto-processing of uploads supported. - Partial filename completion. - Improved CD-ROM handling procedure that optimizes file transfers from CD-ROM discs and other low speed media, especially on multiuser systems. - Local upload and download for LAN use. - Supports automatic FILE_ID.DIZ importing. * Multilanguage Support - Offer up to 64 languages online. - Language files can redefine some or all text prompts and menus. - Callers' language choices saved as default for future logins. - Choose from popular languages offered by Searchlight Software or create your own translations with included tools. * Sysop Utilities - All sysop functions are available from a remote location. - Most sysop functions can be run with callers online. - Purge old users & messages by date, access level, content, and other criteria. - Rename users (changes name in messages, too). - Global adjustments to user access levels & attributes. - Rebuild indexes & repair damaged files. * Expandability - Multizone Fidonet (echomail & netmail) support. - QWK offline mail module included free. - Internet mail support. - Compatible with all front-end mailers & mail tossers. - Free high-level software development kit for rapid development of new applications. * System Requirements - Minimum 350K RAM per node. - Supports most multitasking operating systems including DESQview (recommended) and OS/2. - Supports most local area network (LAN) systems with unlimited nodes on a LAN. - Supports up to 10 lines on a single PC (requires 33mhz '486, - DESQview operating system, Intelligent DigiBoard). - Internal program structure that reduces Searchlight's conventional memory footprint. * Upgrades and Technical Support - Free unlimited technical support. - Voice support available during business hours. - Continuous support via BBS, CompuServe, internet mail, and Fidonet/SL_NET conferences. - No additional charge for support BBS access. - 100% of purchase price credited toward license upgrades. ------------------------------------ * Searchlight Software Price List ------------------------------------ Here's a complete list of Telegrafix's products and prices. You can order Searchlight products via WWW at: http://www.telegrafix.com/ If you prefer to order by phone, call (540) 678-4051 during business hours (10am to 4pm EST). Searchlight BBS Software 1 to 3 Line Version* ................................. $49.95 Additional nodes, each ............................... $9.95 Unlimited Line Version+ .............................. $399.95 Spinnaker Web Server ................................. $249.95 RipKit (RIPaint, RIPview, RipTel, Cgm2RIP) ........... $49.95 --------------------------------------------------------------- [2.2.05] - WILDCAT! TOPICS IN THIS SECTION: * CONTACT INFO * TECHNICAL SUPPORT * PRODUCTS AND PRICING * Wildcat! 5 for Windows 95/NT * True Client/Server Technology * So What is Client/Server? * Isn't It Complicated? * Standard Wildcat! 5 Modules * Optional Wildcat! 5 Modules * How Do I Set Up a Client/Server BBS? * How Do Callers Connect? * What Internet Services Can I Offer? * What Hardware Will I Need? * What about Novell and LANtastic Networks? * Can it Run Doors? * Release Information and Pricing * What are the Plans for the DOS Version of Wildcat!? -------------------------------------- ---------------- * CONTACT INFO ---------------- Mustang Software Inc. P.O. Box 2264 Bakersfield, CA 93303-9943 (805) 873-2500. WWW: http://www.mustang.com/ ---------------------- * TECHNICAL SUPPORT ---------------------- - Free technical support by phone Monday-Friday, 9 am-5pm Pacific Time (805) 873-2550 - Automatic notification of program updates - Software upgrades at a reduced price - 24-hour access to Support BBS - BBS access to download utilities written by Mustang software - PC Vendor Forum on CompuServe (GO PCVENA) ------------------------ * PRODUCTS AND PRICING ------------------------ - Wildcat! 4 Single Line - economical and easily installed BBS software flagship product requires only a telephone line, a personal computer and a modem. Suggested Retail Price: $129 - Wildcat! 4 MultiLine 10 - extends the functionality of Wildcat! 4 Single Line by supporting up to 10 simultaneous users through your LAN, multitasking environment or combination. Suggested Retail Price: $249 - Wildcat! 4 MultiLine 48 - has all the features of the MultiLine 10 with support for up to 48 concurrent users. Ideal solution for medium-sized LANs. Suggested Retail Price: $499 - Wildcat! 4 MultiLine Platinum - supports up to 250 concurrent users with all the features of the other MultiLine packages. Includes a complimentary one year subscription to the Platinum Customer Access Program. Suggested Retail Price: $799 - Wildcat! 4 BBS Suite - includes everything you need to set up and maintain a complete BBS environment: Wildcat! MultiLine Platinum BBS, wcPRO database utilities, wcFAX-on-demand server, wcGATE Internet/MHS mail gateway, wcCODE development toolkit and a Includes a complimentary one year subscription to the Platinum Customer Access Program. Suggested Retail Price: $999 - wcPRO Utilities - provides powerful user, message and file database maintenance capabilities. Also includes wcFAX, our fax-on-demand processor. Suggested Retail Price: $99 - wcGATE Internet/MHS Messaging Gateway - enables callers to send and receive Internet E-Mail and news from your BBS without having to know a single Internet command. Also supports satellite connections as well as Novell's MHS. Suggested Retail Price: $149 - wcCODE Custom Online Development Engine - lets you develop custom applications to enhance or change Wildcat!'s operation. BASIC-like syntax makes it easy to use the more than 250 built-in functions. Suggested Retail Price: $149 - Auto Update Plan - for those who have purchased Wildcat! 4, this is the easiest and most economical way to receive all minor updates for 12 months. Suggested Retail Price: $50/year - Platinum Customer Access Program - priority customer service plan includes priority technical support phone line answered by specially trained staff in under 5 minutes. Suggested Retail Price: $199/year - QmodemPro for Windows - winner of the 1994 Dvorak Award for Outstanding Telecommunications Technology, this product combines data, fax, and Remote Imaging Protocol (RIP) graphics into one outstanding package. Suggested Retail Price: $99 - QmodemPro for DOS - still the best DOS-based communications program on the market. Includes RIP graphics, off-line mail reader, a full line of file transfer protocols and a full-featured phonebook. Suggested Retail Price: $99 - QmodemPro for Windows/Network 5 Pack - includes a 5 user pack of QmodemPro for Windows with a network install program and support for Novell's NASI/NACS modem sharing protocol. Suggested Retail Price: $399 - Off-Line Xpress for Windows - the new Windows version of the classic Off-Line Xpress .QWK-compatible mail reader. Includes spell checker, address book, search and filtering. The perfect choice for managing your BBS mail. Suggested Retail Price: $49 -------------------------------- * Wildcat! 5 for Windows 95/NT -------------------------------- 01/16/96 * Interactive Multimedia Reaches the On-line Application Market Mustang Software is developing a system to empower the corporate, business, small office and hobbyist community to offer full on-line multimedia to customers, staff and prospects. It will be released as Wildcat! 5 for Windows 95 and Windows NT and it has entered beta testing at several hundred locations. Wildcat! 5 is a true Windows 95 or Windows NT client/server application designed to provide a BBS-based solution for a broad range of customers. It delivers an exciting interactive multimedia experience for callers by allowing the system operator to make use of familiar multimedia tools, including JPEG and GIF editors, for customization of the caller interface. For backward compatibility all aspects of the system are accessible via standard ANSI connectivity but when accessed using the free remote client, the caller is greeted with an exciting multimedia experience. The support engine for offering remote graphics to the caller is included at no additional cost, and the Wildcat! Navigator suite is slated for free distribution. Wildcat! 5 takes full advantage of the new multitasking in Windows 95 and the robust server operations in Windows NT to provide a solution for every online need. The Windows 95 platform has been selected to support small to medium load systems while the Windows NT platform was chosen to provide high performance on-line solutions utilizing its single and multi-processor support. ---------------------------------- * True Client/Server Technology ---------------------------------- The Bulletin Board System arena is the latest market segment to be courted by advertisements touting the benefits of "client/server" technology. However, upon closer inspection, "client/server" is often used to refer to the use of a proprietary remote program (the client) to dial into a BBS application (the server). While the use of a remote graphic client is an exciting aspect of many of the newer BBS technologies including Wildcat! 5, it does not represent true client/server functionality at the application program level, the location where its true power can be unleashed. ----------------------------- * So What is Client/Server? ----------------------------- Client/server, at its simplest level, is an architecture that involves client processes requesting service from server processes. Client/server computing recognizes that those client modules need not all be executed within the same memory space, that is, the processes that distribute the information need not all be a part of the same single program. Separation of the client and server modules provides improved security and performance. By implementing a BBS with a core information server, and routing that information using a number of application clients at the sysop's location, a system can be established that delivers more information at greater speed, even on a single PC running Windows 95. ------------------------- * Isn't It Complicated? ------------------------- Client/server can be as simple as running two or three familiar programs on a single PC or as intricate as a multiple-PC network running several applications on each PC. The beauty of client/server model is that once you understand the relationship between the different executable programs (the clients and the server) you can set it up in any of several ways that best meet your needs. The client/server model of Wildcat! 5 can be as simple as a server and all clients running on a single PC. The computer can operate under Windows 95 or Windows NT Workstation or Server. This configuration offers the most compact system and allows for total management from the single BBS computer. An alternative to operating all client executables on a single PC is to distribute the processing over a Microsoft Network. The server executable runs on a Windows NT (workstation or server) PC while the client modules can be run on either the server PC or networked PCs running either Windows 95 or Windows NT. The advantage of separating some client operations from the server is increased power through distributed processing. For example, in an extremely active system the sysop may find it advantageous to establish three PCs, one for the Server and TCP/IP connectivity, including WWW access, and two others, each running a rack of 32 modems with its own copy of the Modem Controller Client. Use of the client/server model provides a number of advantages: 32-bit Windows multitasking means no additional multitasking software is needed and 16-32 lines can be run easily without loading multiple copies of the BBS. The entire BBS configuration in our client/server model can be modified even while in full operation, but only by authorized personnel. The system server accepts change requests and implements them as soon as usage permits. The number of inbound sessions on a single computer is significantly increased. Thanks to the enhanced multitasking of both 32-bit Windows platforms, a much larger number of connections is possible on any given PC. As inbound access (via modem, telnet, HTTP, etc.) reaches the processor limits for any given PC, additional client PCs can be added which communicate automatically with the server. Clients for modems, HTTP, telnet and other activities can be operated on a single PC or on a variety of additional systems, depending on load. This new generation BBS can truly isolate the core of the host activities, providing secure, private system access even to local users. The server portion of the system is established in an area on disk with restricted user access. The server controls all access to messages, files and other system information. Requests are submitted to the server by all support programs and third-party utilities through an easily adopted application program interface (API). This methodology has the added advantage of allowing the actual BBS program-flow code to be written in wcCODE and to be fully customizable. True Client/server technology provides total flexibility. It allows the sysop to offer a BBS on a desktop platform and to expand the system capabilities as desired. ------------------------------------- * Standard Wildcat! 5 Modules ------------------------------------- Included With Every BBS Create a Foundation The following modules and clients come with the standard Wildcat! 5 package. * Server module This module provides the base functionality for processing all database and configuration requests through a published API structure. * Local or LAN Client This module is included with every package and is used by anyone connecting at the host PC. It can also be used by anyone on the network for local login. It is an ANSI text connection. Note that the graphical Wildcat! Navigator which is designed for remote connection also can be used locally for a graphical local connection. * Online Client This module is included with every package and answers the phone for all dial-in lines. It can present the BBS information to a caller in ANSI, ASCII or in full graphics when called with the free Wildcat! Navigator. * QWK Echo Client This module is included with every package and handles QWK mail exchange processing between the host and other BBSs. * TAPI Client This module is included with every package and provides a link to the Windows Telephony Application Program Interface. It talks to TAPI-aware add-on cards or hardware that offer ISDN, X.25 or other connectivity. * Wildcat! Navigator This module is a set of freely-distributable Windows programs for callers to experience full multimedia when connected. This program suite operates on Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT and any OS/2 release with Windows support. It can also be run locally, over a LAN or via a telnet connection. The core language of the Wildcat! Navigator is HTML, the language of the World Wide Web. --------------------------------- * Optional Wildcat! 5 Modules --------------------------------- Increase Client/Server Power The following modules are optional add-on accessories and are purchased separately. * Internet Connectivity Package This optional accessory package handles Internet connectivity and includes several individual clients: UUCP Module - This module handles Internet email and newsgroup support via UUCP. It includes a program for connecting to an internet service provider via dial or UUCPD, and tosses messages into the Wildcat! system. Callers can send and receive Internet email and participate in newsgroup message exchange. It also supports feeding messages to downline nodes. (available as part of the initial release) Telnet Module - This module enables the Online Module to also answer inbound telnet callers. It connects callers to the BBS when they connect from a remote internet site. In this mode it acts as a telnet server. With the telnet module installed the BBS also supports outbound telnet sessions requested by callers, connecting them to other locations on the internet. In this mode the BBS acts as a telnet client for the caller. Inbound telnet connections support ANSI, ASCII and the Wildcat! Navigator interface. (available as part of the initial release) FTP Module - This module enables the Online Module to also answer FTP connection requests. It responds to inbound FTP file requests and functions as a FTP server. Requests can be made anonymously for a restricted file set, or using a name and password on the BBS for FTP access to files based on the caller's access profile. This module also allows callers to make FTP requests to locations outside the BBS. (available as part of the initial release) WWW Module - This module functions as an HTTP proxy server that allows inbound callers using the Wildcat! Navigator to surf the World Wide Web. It also supports inbound HTTP connections from callers using any browser, allowing them to view the BBS HTML screens. (available as part of the initial release) PPP Module - This module allows callers to make a connection to the BBS with any Winsock layer to establish a path for true TCP/IP connectivity. With a PPP connection callers can run their choice of applications while connected to the net, including mail applications such as Eudora, other telnet clients, and browsers other than the Wildcat! Navigator, such as Netscape. (available as part of a maintenance update after initial release) Dynamic HTML Module - This module provides BBS connectivity to inbound callers connecting using a WWW browser. It functions as an HTTP server that dynamically creates HTML files for file and message data and is fed by a set of display files in HTML format customized by the sysop. (available as part of a maintenance update after initial release) SMTP Module - This module provides support for simple mail transfer protocol. It provides full management for sending and receiving internet email. (available as part of a maintenance update after initial release) * IRC Module This module provides a link to internet relay chat to expand the live discussion capabilities of the BBS. It functions as an irc client for callers. Note that standard inter-node chat is supported without this module. * NNTP Module This module provides support for network news transfer protocol messaging and processes mail from an Internet NNTP server (many providers offer nntp mail services). It provides the link to allow callers to read and reply to usenet newsgroups. * wcEXCHANGE Mail Client This optional module provides a link to Microsoft Exchange using the Windows Mail Application Program Interface. It provides a mechanism to have both email and conference mail be routed to Exchange on a local area network. * wcCODE Development Package This optional package is a new, enhanced high-speed 32-bit development language so powerful that all standard BBS functions are written in it. The wcCODE package allows the sysop to create custom BBS operations and programs to be run by the caller. * wcCODE Plus Pack For total customization of all online activity the wcCODE source for all ANSI/VT-100 BBS functions is available for purchase. (Requires wcCODE) * ODBC Database Client This optional module provides remote connectivity to database processing using the ODBC standard, accessible via wcCODE applications. * wcREPORTS [wcPRO] This optional module provides extensive reporting on BBS usage and activities. * wcBILLING This optional module provides a complete billing for pre-pay or post-pay systems. * wcSUBSCRIBE This optional module provides for online processing of credit cards and personal checks. Real-time processing requires an internet connection and batch processing is available via modem. You must have a merchant account to make use of the credit card processing, but no merchant account is required for the online check processing. ---------------------------------------- * How Do I Set Up a Client/Server BBS? ---------------------------------------- The configuration of Wildcat! 5 is very similar to the DOS Wildcat! BBS except that all configuration programs are 32-bit graphic Windows applications. Once you have run the installation and configuration programs you maintain the BBS using other Windows applications that provide functionality similar to the DOS Wildcat! MAKEMENU, MAKEWILD, MAKEQUES, wcFILE, and other support programs. --------------------------- * How Do Callers Connect? --------------------------- There are several methods for callers to connect to your Wildcat! 5 BBS and several types of presentation: Dial-in modem callers using a standard comm package receive standard ANSI screens, just like WC4. Dial-in modem callers using the free Wildcat! Navigator package receive a full graphical HTML presentation. The BBS main "page" and all other informational pages such as bulletins, etc. are created by the sysop as HTML (www) documents using any HTML editor. We expect to bundle an HTML authoring tool with the package. Telnet inbound connections using a standard telnet or comm package receive ANSI screens, just like WC4. (requires the Internet Connectivity Package) Telnet inbound connections using the Wildcat! Navigator receive a full graphical HTML presentation. (requires the Internet Connectivity Package) FTP inbound connection requests can log in as "guest" or "anonymous" for limited file access as set by the sysop, or can log in as a BBS user with the correct password for full file lists based on BBS access profiles. (requires the Internet Connectivity Package) HTTP inbound can be made using any browser (Netscape, Mosaic, etc.) and will receive dynamically generated HTML pages for files and messages, with other information and other "pages" prepared by the sysop as HTML documents. (requires the Internet Connectivity Package with the Dynamic HTML Module, expected in 2nd qtr '96). --------------------------------------- * What Internet Services Can I Offer? --------------------------------------- If you add the Internet Connectivity Package your callers can make use of a number of Internet services by dialing in using any ANSI terminal. By connecting to you over a standard phone line they are able to establish an internet email address, telnet to any other internet location, access files via ftp at any other location, and they can participate in internet newsgroup discussions. If they dial-in using the free Wildcat! Navigator they can do all the above plus surf the World Wide Web using the browser included in the Navigator. After the release of the additions to the Internet Connectivity Package expected in 2nd quarter '96, callers can expand their Internet connectivity to allow them full use of any internet applications they desire since you will be able to provide them with a PPP connection. ----------------------------- * What Hardware Will I Need? ----------------------------- Wildcat! 5 was designed to provide a platform for everything from a single line BBS to a 1,000 line corporate connectivity server. The same set of client/server modules are used in all installations. For a simple one or two line BBS the easiest installation platform would be a 486/66 PC with 8 MB of memory running Windows 95. The standard communications ports in the PC can be used and the sysop just needs to run the Server Module and the Online Client. Minimize these two programs on the desktop and your BBS is operational. To login locally you run the Wildcat! Navigator for a full graphical BBS session. As the BBS expands the sysop might add a multiport card from Digi, Comtrol, Stallion, Equinox or any other manufacturer that offers Windows 95 or NT support. A 4 or 16 port card can be installed in the same 486 PC to increase line count and the only additional hardware changes might be to add additional memory to 16 MB. The same Modem Client will handle the additional lines with the installation of a line count increase module. Further expansion of the BBS can be accomplished in many ways. As line count increases the power of the PC can be increased to handle the added load by moving to a Pentium 90-120 MHz CPU. With the technology available today it is entirely possible to operate a single-box PC that can address hundreds of incoming lines and other connections by taking advantage of the multi-processor capabilities of the Windows NT platform. Multiport cards from 16 to 128 ports are readily available for the NT platform. For those that would rather make use of a LAN environment for BBS connectivity, Wildcat! 5 also has a solution. By using Windows NT (Server or Workstation) the sysop can establish a server PC that handles the core server duties and allows separate PCs to handle different aspects of the remote connection. Each Client module can be operated on a networked PC running Windows 95 or NT, and will communicate with the server PC automatically. No messy drive mappings and no specific Networking components are required, other than those that come with Windows NT (workstation or server) and Windows 95. This type of distributed processing system really make sense for large systems with several different types of access, including local, TCP/IP, modem, X.25 and ISDN. Different client processes can be run on less-powerful PCs depending on their load. --------------------------------------------- * What about Novell and LANtastic Networks? --------------------------------------------- Wildcat! 5 is totally compatible with NetWare or LANtastic. A workstation PC on a LAN can run Windows 95 or Windows NT and operate the complete BBS. Other LAN PCs can access the BBS using the Local/LAN client. Although the BBS PC can access files located on the NetWare or LANtastic server drives, all BBS server and client files must be located on PCs running NT or 95 with the exception of the downloadable files, which can be located anywhere on the LAN. The same cabling for NetWare or LANtastic connectivity (ethernet is assumed) is automatically used by the Windows networking to share BBS client/server data using TCP/IP. ---------------------- * Can it Run Doors? ---------------------- Wildcat! 5 supports DOS-based doors on all port connections, and includes a program for DOS program redirection. However, operation of 16-bit DOS doors does limit the number of lines that can be supported on any given PC. Programs specifically written in the new 32-bit wcCODE are an exception, and do not cause this system degradation. Testing is the only method to determine the actual impact of a specific DOS door on your Wildcat! 5 system. Each DOS door affects system performance differently depending on the language it was developed in and what resources it uses. * Doors under Windows NT Doors do not require any modification and operate in their own memory session for each node. Door operation is virtualized, a process that isolates the door itself from the port, and prevents it from knowing whether it is talking to a standard com port, a DigiBoard or a telnet connection. All doors all think they are talking to a standard COM 1. For specifics on how to run doors, see Part 2 of this document. * Doors Under Windows 95 Doors must be able to talk to the actual port in use for each node via DOS. Unless the door is written in wcCODE it will not be able to access multiport boards that use a Windows 95 driver. For specifics on how to run doors, see Part 2 of this document. ------------------------------------- * Release Information and Pricing ------------------------------------- No specific release date has been set for Wildcat! 5, but the target date is early 1996. The majority of the program modules are expected to be available in 1st quarter `96 but some optional modules will not become available 2nd quarter or later. The Wildcat! Navigator will be posted for download and wide-area testing in January. A patch upgrade to the wcSERVER component of the Preview CD ROM will also be made available at that time to enable CD owners to make use of the Wildcat! Navigator for their callers. Product MSRP 75% off 66.6% off Availability ------------------------------ ---- ------- --------- -------------- Wildcat! 5 M2 (2 node + local) $149 $ 37 $ 49 1st qtr.`96 Wildcat! 5 M16 (16 node) $349 $ 87 $115 1st qtr.`96 Wildcat! 5 M32 (32 node) $699 $174 $230 1st qtr.`96 8 Pack Node Increase $199 $ 49 $ 65 1st qtr.`96 32 Pack Node Increase $699 $174 $233 1st qtr.`96 wcEXCHANGE Module $499 $124 $169 1st qtr.`96 wcCODE Development Lang. & IDE $149 $ 37 $ 49 1st qtr.`96 wcCODE Plus Pack $349 $ 87 $115 1st qtr.`96 Internet Connectivity Package $249 $ 62 $ 83 1st/2nd qtr.`96* NNTP Module ------to be set----- 2nd qtr.`96 IRC Module $149 $ 37 $ 49 2nd qtr.`96 ODBC Database Client $799 $199 $265 2nd qtr.`96 wcREPORTS [wcPRO] $149 $ 37 $ 49 2nd qtr.`96 wcBILLING $149 $ 37 $ 49 2nd qtr.`96 wcSUBSCRIBE $ 99 $ 24 $ 33 2nd qtr.`96 * Portions of this product will be added following the initial release, see previous text for details. key - MSRP - Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price 75% off - to participants in the special Pre-Release CD program 66.6% off - to any Wildcat! sysop with a valid registration number ----------------------------------------------------- * What are the Plans for the DOS Version of Wildcat!? ----------------------------------------------------- The current DOS version of Wildcat! will continue to be supported and updated by its own separate team of engineers. We have no current plans for a native OS/2 BBS system and do not anticipate such development in the foreseeable future. NOTE: The products & prices above were listed on the Wildcat! web page January 1996. ===============================================================

**************************************************************
                T-H-E  O-F-F-I-C-I-A-L  B-B-S  F-A-Q
**************************************************************
               CHAPTER 2 - PC  COMMERCIAL BBS SOFTWARE  
**************************************************************
  2.2 - MULTI-PLATFORM BBS SOFTWARE  
    [2.2.01] -   BBBS  
    [2.2.02] -   FIRSTCLASS SERVER  
    [2.2.03] -   PCBOARD BBS  
    [2.2.04] -   SEARCHLIGHT BBS  
    [2.2.05] -   WILDCAT!  
**************************************************************

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
2.2 - MULTI-PLATFORM BBS SOFTWARE
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

[2.2.01] - BBBS

HOME:  http://www.bbbs.net/

---------------------------------------------------------------

[2.2.02] - FIRSTCLASS SERVER

Macintosh users: For information about Softarc see section;
[7.4.02] - FirstClass

SoftArc Announces Windows Version of Leading Workgroup
Communication Server

FirstClass Server for Microsoft Windows to Offer Same E-Mail,
Conferencing, Database and Remote Access Functions as
Best-Selling Macintosh Product

MARKHAM, Ontario - SoftArc Inc., a leading developer and
manufacturer of enterprise-wide, cross-platform group
communication software, today announced a version of its
popular FirstClass enterprise communications server for
Microsoft Windows.  In conjunction with SoftArc's FirstClass
client software - already available for Windows, Macintosh and
terminal emulation environments - the new FirstClass Windows
server will offer sites with PC servers the full power of
FirstClass (previously Macintosh server-based).

SoftArc's president, Steven Asbury, acknowledged the influence
of strong customer demand in the company's decision to release
a Windows server version.  "The installed base of FirstClass
users has grown rapidly since the product's release three years
ago - in fact doubling to over 2,000,000 user licenses in the
last year.  While this currently makes FirstClass the
best-selling group communication software package, we believe
there is an even greater pent up demand based on the number of
customers requesting a Windows version of our plug-and-play
FirstClass server.  This new product will allow us to satisfy
that demand."

The FirstClass Windows server will require a 386 or better CPU
running at least Windows 3.1, and will recognize popular PC
serial expansion hardware for support of multiple modems.  When
running under Windows NT, the FirstClass server will offer
higher performance and support for additional simultaneous
users.  FirstClass servers optimized for Windows NT and Windows
95 will be made available following this initial product
release.

Users of existing FirstClass client software will be able to
transparently connect to either the new Windows server or
existing Macintosh servers.  The Windows server will seamlessly
integrate with existing FirstClass servers by network, WAN or
modem connection for e-mail exchange and discussion database
replication.  As with the Macintosh product, the new FirstClass
server will accommodate modem and multiprotocol network
connections (IPX, NetBIOS, TCP/IP and AppleTalk) as well as
take advantage of asynchronous disk I/O and other advanced file
system features supported by Windows.

While the FirstClass Windows server will work with existing
FirstClass gateways, third party developers are working on
Windows versions of their shipping FirstClass products.  TGF
Technologies of Burlington, Vermont, Delphic Software of
Redlands, California and World Connect of Toronto all plan to
release Windows versions of their FirstClass gateways and
extensions.

The FirstClass Windows server is now in beta testing and is
scheduled for volume shipment in the second quarter of 1995.
The price will be the same as SoftArc's current server for
Macintosh, available for $690 with licensing for 10 users.
Additional platform and protocol options and user licenses will
be sold separately.

FirstClass is the leading cross-platform, enterprise-wide group
communication system, with 2.5 million user licenses sold
worldwide.  FirstClass integrates state-of-the-art e-mail with
group conferencing, access to existing corporate databases,
forms processing, real-time discussions and on-line
communications functions.  FirstClass offers the same ease of
use, functionality and robust performance over network or
modem, and operates in Macintosh, Windows, DOS, OS/2 and
terminal emulation environments.  The product is available in
12 languages and is used by businesses, educational
institutions, governments and private individuals in more than
30 countries.  SoftArc is headquartered in Markham, Ontario,
Canada.

SoftArc Inc.
Global Area Communications
SoftArc Inc.
100 Allstate Parkway Markham, 
Ontario CANADA L3R 6H3. 

SoftArc Inc.
1902 Ridge Road,
#325,
West Seneca,
New York, USA, 14224

Tel: 905-415-7000  
Fax: 905-415-7151  
FirstClass: 905-415-7070
Internet: sales@softarc.com
WWW: http://www.softarc.com

---------------------------------------------------------------

[2.2.03] - PCBOARD BBS

TOPICS IN THIS SECTION:
* FEATURES
* REQUIREMENTS
* PCBoard ADD-ONS

* PCBoard unregisterable


       ------------------------------------------

------------
* FEATURES
------------
- Packet switch support
- Full Internationalization of dates & code page
- FOSSIL support for virtually any intelligent serial card(/M code)
- File attachment to messages
- Multiple daily events
- Full support for 2 byte international character sets
- Built-in .QWK message packet support
- Jukebox & "slow" CD-ROM support
- Incoming Fax support
- Carbon-Copy list support
- Return Receipt message support
- Caller-ID support
- ALIAS support by conference area
- RIPscrip support for remote callers
- PPL (PCBoard Programming Language Compiler) (Optional)
- Automatic 16550 UART recognition & support
- Intelligent & non-intelligent multi-port serial card support
- Full screen text editor
- ANSI graphics support
- Full color operation
- Thread reading of messages
- Supports up to 65,535 conference (message base) areas
- 36 file transfer protocols supported
- Supports 37,767 DOORS per conference
- Real-Time 255 channel node chat (CB chat)
- Long message headers for all NetMail programs including
  Internet, Usenet & others.
- Local network logins for in-house e-mail support
- Direct connect support for in-house serial networks & PADS
- Communicates directly with OS/2 COMM drivers to allow large
  number of multiple nodes under OS/2
- Automatically detects OS/2 operation for time-slice control
- Full network support for any NetBIOS compatible network,
  including Netware, LAN tastic, 3-Com, Vines & more.
- Full remote DOS access for SysOp if desired
- True & complete multi-lingual language support

---------------
* REQUIREMENTS
---------------
IBM PC compatible
Minimum 320k RAM
DOS 3.1 or higher
Modem to support remote dial-in

- PCBoard/M
Needs 80386 CPU or higher since code is written using 80386
instructions for maximum speed.

-------------------
* PCBoard ADD-ONS
------------------

* PPL Compiler
The PPL Compiler allows you to change or add features to your
PCBoard system. Simply write your code in a BASIC like
language, compile, and attach your results to PCBoard.

* PCBoard Toolkit
The PCBoard Toolkit allows you to write extensive DOOR programs
in either C or C++ (Borland or MS). Clark Development provides
all the communication, display and file routines needed to
produce a truly professional PCBoard DOOR program.


PCBoard Bulletin Board Software
-------------------------------
PCBoard was a premiere Bulletin Board System (BBS Software), which
set the standard for the BBS industry from 1983 untill 1995.
PCBoard supports dial-in and local connections, and can be telneted
using a third party telnet driver.
PCBoard includes support for standard and non-standard COM
ports, plus intelligent and non-intelligent multi-port hardware.
PCBoard was available in 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 250, 1000 and 1000+
node (concurrent users) packages.  PCBoard supports as many as 16
dial-in lines on a single PC using Multi-port hardware with OS/2
or DESQview.  PCBoard includes support for 255 channel node chat
(CB Chat), RIP 1.54 Graphics, Multiple Languages, QWK Message
Packets, 65,535 Conferences, up to 36 File Transfer Protocols,


-------------------------
* PCBoard is Discontinued
-------------------------

PCBoard can no longer be purchased. Clark Development filed for
bankrupcy in 1995, and the software is no longer being supported
or developed.


Their last known address was:


      Clark Development Company Inc.          Voice: 801-261-1686
      3950 South 700 East Suite 303             FAX: 801-261-8987
      Murray, UT 84107-2173                  Orders: 800-356-1686
      http://www.pcboard.com                 Telnet: bbs.pcboard.com
      Sales: sales@saltair.com





This was their last known price list:


  Products                                         DOS/WIN/OS/2
---------------------------------------------------------------
  PCBoard 2 User                                       $  99.00
  PCBoard 5 User                                       $ 149.00
  PCBoard 10 User                                      $ 199.00
  PCBoard 25 User                                      $ 249.00
  PCBoard 50 User                                      $ 299.00
  PCBoard 100 User                                     $ 399.00
  PCBoard 250 User                                     $ 499.00
  PCBoard 1000 User                                    $ 999.00
   *All Packages include the PCBoard Programming Language (PPLC)

  PCBoard Internet Collection (PCB/IC)                 $  99.00

  MetaWorlds Personal Server           (2 user)        $  99.00
  MetaWorlds Community Server          (8 user)        $ 249.00
  MetaWorlds Enterprise Server       (Unlimited)       $ 499.00
  PCBoard MetaWorlds Interface Kit                     $ 199.00
  MetaWorlds Client/Server Option                      $ 199.00
  MetaWorlds Developers Kit                            $ 299.00

  PCBoard Toolkit ($150 with PCBoard Purchase)         $ 179.00
  DOORWAY                                              $  40.00
  PCBoard World Wide T-Shirt                           $  17.50
  PCBoard CD-Rom                                       $  49.00

----------------------------------------------------------------

[2.2.04] - SEARCHLIGHT BBS

TOPICS IN THIS SECTION:
* CONTACT INFO
* Searchlight BBS Version
* Files available at the Searchlight web site
* Feature Summary
* Searchlight Benefits
* Specifications
  * RIP Graphics
  * Full-Screen Editor
  * Menu Building
  * Doors System
  * Modem/Serial Support
  * Message System
  * Users and Security
  * Electronic Mail
  * File Transfer System
  * Multilanguage Support
  * Sysop Utilities
  * Expandability
  * System Requirements
* Upgrades and Technical Support
* Searchlight Software Price List

         ---------------------------------------------
-----------------
* CONTACT INFO
-----------------

TeleGrafix Communications, Inc.
128 S. Loudoun St.
Winchester, VA 22601  Sales:
Voice:
Fax:
BBS: (540) 678-4051
(540) 678-4050
(540) 678-4052
(540) 678-4053

www.telegrafix.com
ftp.telegrafix.com
sales@telegrafix.com



---------------------------
* Searchlight BBS Version
---------------------------
Overview:
Searchlight BBS was one of the 5 most popular BBS programs
in the early to mid 1990s. A Computer, modem and phone line
were all you need to set up a Searchlight BBS system featuring
configurable menus, an easy to use interface, message
conferences, file libraries, email, chatting, and more.
You can even install optional programs, like databases,
order entry systems and surveys. Your BBS can be used with
just a modem -- or it can operate on the Internet using the
Telnet protocol. Searchlight 5 gives you the best of both
worlds: a DOS version you can run on older machines, and a
32-bit Windows version you can run on modern Windows 9x and
Windows NT equipped PCs.

The Win32 versions of Searchlight were first produced in 1995
by the original author, Frank LaRosa of Searchlight Software.
This is one of the few Win32 BBS programs to fully support
the RIP Graphics protocol, as well as providing a fossil aware
telnet interface allowing DOS doors to run under dialup or telnet.


In 1998 Searchlight BBS was taken over by Pat Clawson of
TeleGrafix Communications, Inc.- the inventors of RIPscrip
graphics. The crew over at Searchlight Software have decided
to go off and do other things. Not wanting the product to die,
they had looked for someone to carry on their torch.

Telegrafix owner Pat Clawson purchased both Searchlight BBS and
Spinnaker Web server for an undisclosed sum of money.


Their new version 5.1 of Searchlight is both a demo edition, and
the fully registered edition all in one. If you don't have the
registration key, then the software will act as a demo copy allowing
you play with up to 2 nodes, but only up to 3 user accounts
(SYSOP and GUEST count as two of those) That's it. Enough to let
you determine if you want to purchase Searchlight, but not enough
to run a real system.




------------------------------------------------
* Files available at the Telegrafix web site
------------------------------------------------
Searchlight 5.1 Demo Software


Various Support Files are available
including upgrade patches, development tools and free add-ons.

-------------------
* Feature Summary
-------------------
Graphical Interface
Easy to Use  True GUI Interface
Vector & Bitmapped Images  Digital Sound

Non-Proprietary Client
Works with any RIP, ANSI or TTY terminal
Graphical clients for Windows, DOS & Macintosh

Fully Configurable
Build Custom Menus  Edit Prompts and Strings
No complex script languages  Nothing extra to buy

External Doors Support
Door.Sys, Dorinfo.Def, PCBoard.Sys Support
Run any DOS Program Online
Run Doors on the Same PC as Your BBS

Fully Internet Compatible
Integrated Support for Email and Newsgroups
Supports Popular Telnet, FTP, WWW Addons






------------------------
* Searchlight Benefits
------------------------
An Easy to Use Interface: Many BBS programs let you use the
Remote Imaging Protocol (RIP) to draw menus with graphics and
mouse buttons. But that�s all they do. They don�t offer true
GUI features like scrollbars or pick lists. And they can�t
build RIP menus, so if you change their defaults, you have to
purchase a paint program and draw the new screens yourself.

Searchlight 5.1 has RIP support built-in, not tacked-on. Our
fully graphical RIP interface lets you use a scroll bar to
navigate through message lists and file directories. You can
read messages and tag files with mouse clicks and select
choices from pick lists, dialog boxes and graphical menus. And
since Searchlight creates RIP on the fly, you can reconfigure
your system without manually redrawing the screens. We can even
incorporate your favorite RIP files automatically.

And Searchlight is the only BBS software that gives you Local
RIP Graphics -- so you can see and use the RIP graphics
interface on your computer (or any computer on your LAN). Other
BBS packages make you call your BBS from another computer if
you want to see RIP, and they can�t give you a RIP interface at
all if you�re using a LAN.

RIPterm 3.0 Support: TeleGrafix RIPterm 3.0 is a non-proprietary
host that supports multimedia objects like photographic quality
images and sound effects -- and Searchlight 5.1 is the first and
only BBS software to fully support RIPterm 3.0. You can display
JPEG images, associate WAV sounds with events, and display any
RIPterm 3.0 compatible file with Searchlight 5.1.
The configuration program makes it easy to use images and sounds
without learning the RIPscrip language or using an expensive RIP
paint program. Just plug in your filenames and go!

And Searchlight 5.1 supports both RIPterm 3.0 and RIPterm 1.54,
so you can give your RIPterm 2.0 callers multimedia features
without sacrificing support for callers using the older version
of RIPterm. No other BBS software offers you this flexibility
-- Searchlight does it automatically.

Searchlight gives you simple, point and click customization so
you can easily modify our menus, build new menu branches,
change prompts and terminology, even redesign your entire
system. Install doors and external utilities by typing the
appropriate DOS commands into a form -- you don�t need to
understand batch files or error levels. Install your modem with
one keystroke -- we detect your modem brand and automatically
make the optimal settings.

Comprehensive Doors Support: A hobbyist might want to run
external programs ("doors") to let callers play games. A
business might need to let callers run custom applications
online. Some BBS programs don�t support doors at all -- others
make you purchase a shell utility (like Doorway).

Searchlight supports the most popular door formats, so you can
run programs made for any BBS system. And we�re the only BBS to
include built-in support for DOS shells and text-based DOS
programs. Just select the "direct video" option and you can run
any DOS program online -- including programs like FoxPro,
dBase, and Paradox or applications created with Clipper or
Clarion.

Internet Support: These days, the ability to interface to the
global "information superhighway" is essential. Searchlight�s
Uumail option offers seamless support for internet mail
addresses, so you can send and receive internet messages as
easily as you do local messages. Your callers don�t have to
join a special conference or learn a special procedure to send
internet mail. Just add a "send internet mail" button to your
menu -- Searchlight does the rest!

And when you�re ready to move beyond mail and usenet into the
realm of ftp, telnet and world wide web, you�ll be glad that
Searchlight is fully compatible and extensively field tested
with quality third party internet utilities from companies like
Murkworks, Zialink and Mystic Valley Communications.

A Complete System: Some companies tried to sell stripped down
packages and charge extra for the features you need most. Every
copy of Searchlight 5.x includes our menu editor and language
customization tools, the most popular file transfer protocols,
Fossil and DigiBoard support, a QWK mail host, a built in DOS
shell and a full set of Sysop utilities. We even include a free
RIP terminal that you can distribute to your callers.




-----------------
* Specifications
-----------------
* RIP Graphics
- RIPscrip v3.0 support.
- Local RIP graphics on the BBS computer.
- Automatic transfer feature that makes Searchlight faster in
RIP mode by downloading frequently used menu files and icons on
an as-needed basis.
- Built-in RIP GUI features including scroll bars, pop-up menus
and dialog boxes.
- Full screen message and file browsers with mouse file tagging.
- RIP menu designer and style editor.
- Copy functions that allow you to easily duplicate existing
RIP styles.
- Automatic selection of RIP, ANSI or Ascii screens.
- Regulate doors and menu choices by RIP availability or RIP
version number.
- Users can select large or small font for viewing and entering
messages.

* Full-Screen Editor
- Supports most common cursor control keys, function keys and
WordStar command sequences.
- Uses full ANSI set for fast screen updating.
- Mouse support (RIP & local).
- Quote individual lines from original message.
- Upload text with any internal protocol.

* Menu Building
- Create and edit menus with mouse-driven menu editing tool.
- Copy functions that allow you to easily duplicate existing
menus.
- Up to 64 commands per menu with no limit to total number of
menus in system.
- Nest menus up to 40 levels deep.
- Over 100 internal command functions can be arranged in any way
you choose.
- Add door programs to any menu.
- Execute up to 64 commands in sequence.
- Regulate access to commands and menus by 10 criteria, including
RIP version.
- Design custom RIP, ANSI or Ascii screens for any menu (or use
built-in displays).
- A point-and-click method of assigning conferences and file
directories to any menu.

* Doors System
- Run any text based DOS application online without third-party
add-on products.
- FOSSIL emulation feature that lets you run doors and other
programs that require a Fossil driver through Searchlight's
built-in communications drivers or DigiBoard ports.
- Compatible with most existing Door products.
- Emulates DOOR.SYS, PCBOARD.SYS, DORINFO.DEF.
- Built-in DOS shell capability.
- Write your own door programs without serial programming.

* Modem/Serial Support
- Supports any base address and interrupt (IRQ).
- 16550 buffered UART support.
- FOSSIL driver support.
- Support for Intelligent DigiBoard multiport cards.
- Support for intelligent Equinox multiport cards.
- Support for generic BIOS/INT14 drivers.
- Recognizes all connect speeds up to 28,800.
- Supports locked baud rates up to 115,200.
- Hands-free automatic modem configuration.

* Message System
- An "instant reply" feature for chat messages that lets you
chat without interrupting your work in progress.
- No limit to number of conferences or messages per conference
- "One file per conference" storage architecture offers the
best combination of speed, size and reliability
- Fast message searching in headers and/or text
- Indexed personal message scans
- Full thread maintenance including global thread operations
(kill, forward, download entire threads)
- Message forwarding, carbon copy, text upload & download, auto
purge of old messages
- Attach binary files to messages
- Support for much larger messages.

* Users and Security
- Unlimited number of user accounts.
- Encrypted user passwords for maximum security.
- 24 independent security flags plus 256 levels.
- Over 16 million security combinations.
- Regulate access to conferences, file areas, menu choices,
doors, menu branches, quoting, netmail features, and more.
- Read-only conference areas.
- Upload-only and download-only file directories.
- Mutually exclusive security groups.
- Alias names.
- Caller ID logging.

* Electronic Mail
- True private mailboxes for each user
- Read new mail automatically at log-in
- Recipient name lookup and name completion
- Internet address support
- Multizone (4D) Netmail support
- Carbon copy, alias and group names
- Automatic mail logging feature

* File Transfer System
- Unlimited number of directories and files.
- All directories indexed by name and date.
- Files from multiple DOS directories may be combined into a
single Searchlight directory.
- Individual file passwords.
- Copy, delete, rename and move files.
- View internal directories of ZIP, LZH, ARJ and SQZ files.
- File descriptions up to 400 lines.
- Dynamic download counts in directory listings.
- Tag files with mouse clicks or single-keystrokes.
- Built in Zmodem, Xmodem/CRC & Xmodem/1K.
- Up to 15 external protocols supported including HSLink.
- Auto-processing of uploads supported.
- Partial filename completion.
- Improved CD-ROM handling procedure that optimizes file
transfers from CD-ROM discs and other low speed media,
especially on multiuser systems.
- Local upload and download for LAN use.
- Supports automatic FILE_ID.DIZ importing.

* Multilanguage Support
- Offer up to 64 languages online.
- Language files can redefine some or all text prompts and
menus.
- Callers' language choices saved as default for future logins.
- Choose from popular languages offered by Searchlight Software
or create your own translations with included tools.

* Sysop Utilities
- All sysop functions are available from a remote location.
- Most sysop functions can be run with callers online.
- Purge old users & messages by date, access level, content, and
other criteria.
- Rename users (changes name in messages, too).
- Global adjustments to user access levels & attributes.
- Rebuild indexes & repair damaged files.

* Expandability
- Multizone Fidonet (echomail & netmail) support.
- QWK offline mail module included free.
- Internet mail support.
- Compatible with all front-end mailers & mail tossers.
- Free high-level software development kit for rapid
development of new applications.

* System Requirements
- Minimum 350K RAM per node.
- Supports most multitasking operating systems including
DESQview (recommended) and OS/2.
- Supports most local area network (LAN) systems with unlimited
nodes on a LAN.
- Supports up to 10 lines on a single PC (requires 33mhz '486,
- DESQview operating system, Intelligent DigiBoard).
- Internal program structure that reduces Searchlight's
conventional memory footprint.

* Upgrades and Technical Support
- Free unlimited technical support.
- Voice support available during business hours.
- Continuous support via BBS, CompuServe, internet mail, and
Fidonet/SL_NET conferences.
- No additional charge for support BBS access.
- 100% of purchase price credited toward license upgrades.

------------------------------------
* Searchlight Software Price List
------------------------------------
Here's a complete list of Telegrafix's products and
prices. You can order Searchlight products via WWW at:
http://www.telegrafix.com/

If you prefer to order by phone, call (540) 678-4051 during
business hours (10am to 4pm EST).




Searchlight BBS Software
1 to 3 Line Version* .................................  $49.95
Additional nodes, each ...............................   $9.95
Unlimited Line Version+ .............................. $399.95


Spinnaker Web Server ................................. $249.95
RipKit (RIPaint, RIPview, RipTel, Cgm2RIP) ...........  $49.95

---------------------------------------------------------------

[2.2.05] - WILDCAT!

TOPICS IN THIS SECTION:
* CONTACT INFO
* TECHNICAL SUPPORT
* PRODUCTS AND PRICING
* Wildcat! 5 for Windows 95/NT
* True Client/Server Technology
* So What is Client/Server?
* Isn't It Complicated?
* Standard Wildcat! 5 Modules
* Optional Wildcat! 5 Modules
* How Do I Set Up a Client/Server BBS?
* How Do Callers Connect?
* What Internet Services Can I Offer?
* What Hardware Will I Need?
* What about Novell and LANtastic Networks?
* Can it Run Doors?
* Release Information and Pricing
* What are the Plans for the DOS Version of Wildcat!?

                    --------------------------------------

----------------
* CONTACT INFO
----------------
Mustang Software Inc.
P.O. Box 2264
Bakersfield, CA 93303-9943
(805) 873-2500.

WWW: http://www.mustang.com/

----------------------
* TECHNICAL SUPPORT
----------------------
- Free technical support by phone
  Monday-Friday, 9 am-5pm Pacific Time
  (805) 873-2550
- Automatic notification of program updates
- Software upgrades at a reduced price
- 24-hour access to Support BBS
- BBS access to download utilities written by Mustang software
- PC Vendor Forum on CompuServe (GO PCVENA)

------------------------
* PRODUCTS AND PRICING
------------------------
- Wildcat! 4 Single Line - economical and easily installed BBS 
software flagship product requires only a telephone line, a 
personal computer and a modem.

Suggested Retail Price: $129

- Wildcat! 4 MultiLine 10 - extends the functionality of Wildcat! 
4 Single Line by supporting up to 10 simultaneous users through 
your LAN, multitasking environment or combination.

Suggested Retail Price: $249

- Wildcat! 4 MultiLine 48 - has all the features of the 
MultiLine 10 with support for up to 48 concurrent users. Ideal 
solution for medium-sized LANs.

Suggested Retail Price: $499

- Wildcat! 4 MultiLine Platinum - supports up to 250 concurrent 
users with all the features of the other MultiLine packages. 
Includes a complimentary one year subscription to the Platinum 
Customer Access Program.

Suggested Retail Price: $799

- Wildcat! 4 BBS Suite - includes everything you need to set up 
and maintain a complete BBS environment: Wildcat! MultiLine 
Platinum BBS, wcPRO database utilities, wcFAX-on-demand server, 
wcGATE Internet/MHS mail gateway, wcCODE development toolkit 
and a Includes a complimentary one year subscription to the 
Platinum Customer Access Program.

Suggested Retail Price: $999

- wcPRO Utilities - provides powerful user, message and file 
database maintenance capabilities. Also includes wcFAX, our 
fax-on-demand processor.

Suggested Retail Price: $99

- wcGATE Internet/MHS Messaging Gateway - enables callers to 
send and receive Internet E-Mail and news from your BBS without 
having to know a single Internet command. Also supports 
satellite connections as well as Novell's MHS.

Suggested Retail Price: $149

- wcCODE Custom Online Development Engine - lets you develop 
custom applications to enhance or change Wildcat!'s operation. 
BASIC-like syntax makes it easy to use the more than 250 
built-in functions.

Suggested Retail Price: $149

- Auto Update Plan - for those who have purchased Wildcat! 4, 
this is the easiest and most economical way to receive all 
minor updates for 12 months.

Suggested Retail Price: $50/year

- Platinum Customer Access Program - priority customer service 
plan includes priority technical support phone line answered by 
specially trained staff in under 5 minutes.

Suggested Retail Price: $199/year

- QmodemPro for Windows - winner of the 1994 Dvorak Award for 
Outstanding Telecommunications Technology, this product 
combines data, fax, and Remote Imaging Protocol (RIP) graphics 
into one outstanding package.

Suggested Retail Price: $99

- QmodemPro for DOS - still the best DOS-based communications 
program on the market. Includes RIP graphics, off-line mail 
reader, a full line of file transfer protocols and a 
full-featured phonebook.

Suggested Retail Price: $99

- QmodemPro for Windows/Network 5 Pack - includes a 5 user pack 
of QmodemPro for Windows with a network install program and 
support for Novell's NASI/NACS modem sharing protocol.

Suggested Retail Price: $399

- Off-Line Xpress for Windows - the new Windows version of the 
classic Off-Line Xpress .QWK-compatible mail reader. Includes 
spell checker, address book, search and filtering. The perfect 
choice for managing your BBS mail.

Suggested Retail Price: $49




--------------------------------
* Wildcat! 5 for Windows 95/NT
--------------------------------
01/16/96

* Interactive Multimedia Reaches the On-line Application Market
Mustang Software is developing a system to empower the 
corporate, business, small office and hobbyist community to 
offer full on-line multimedia to customers, staff and 
prospects.  It will be released as Wildcat! 5 for Windows 95 
and Windows NT and it has entered beta testing at several 
hundred locations.

Wildcat! 5 is a true Windows 95 or Windows NT client/server 
application designed to provide a BBS-based solution for a 
broad range of customers. It delivers an exciting interactive 
multimedia experience for callers by allowing the system 
operator to make use of familiar multimedia tools, including 
JPEG and GIF editors, for customization of the caller 
interface. For backward compatibility all aspects of the system 
are accessible via standard ANSI connectivity but when accessed 
using the free remote client, the caller is greeted with an 
exciting multimedia experience. The support engine for offering 
remote graphics to the caller is included at no additional 
cost, and the Wildcat! Navigator suite is slated for free 
distribution.

Wildcat! 5 takes full advantage of the new multitasking in 
Windows 95 and the robust server operations in Windows NT to 
provide a solution for every online need. The Windows 95 
platform has been selected to support small to medium load 
systems while the Windows NT platform was chosen to provide 
high performance on-line solutions utilizing its single and 
multi-processor support.

----------------------------------
* True Client/Server Technology
----------------------------------
The Bulletin Board System arena is the latest market segment to 
be courted by advertisements touting the benefits of 
"client/server" technology.  However, upon closer inspection, 
"client/server" is often used to refer to the use of a 
proprietary remote program (the client) to dial into a BBS 
application (the server). While the use of a remote graphic 
client is an exciting aspect of many of the newer BBS 
technologies including Wildcat! 5, it does not represent true 
client/server functionality at the application program level, 
the location where its true power can be unleashed.

-----------------------------
* So What is Client/Server?
-----------------------------
Client/server, at its simplest level, is an architecture that 
involves client processes requesting service from server 
processes. Client/server computing recognizes that those client 
modules need not all be executed within the same memory space, 
that is, the processes that distribute the information need not 
all be a part of the same single program. Separation of the 
client and server modules provides improved security and 
performance. By implementing a BBS with a core information 
server, and routing that information using a number of 
application clients at the sysop's location, a system can be 
established that delivers more information at greater speed, 
even on a single PC running Windows 95.

-------------------------
* Isn't It Complicated?
-------------------------
Client/server can be as simple as running two or three familiar 
programs on a single PC or as intricate as a multiple-PC 
network running several applications on each PC. The beauty of 
client/server model is that once you understand the 
relationship between the different executable programs (the 
clients and the server) you can set it up in any of several 
ways that best meet your needs.

The client/server model of Wildcat! 5 can be as simple as a 
server and all clients running on a single PC. The computer can 
operate under Windows 95 or Windows NT Workstation or Server. 
This configuration offers the most compact system and allows 
for total management from the single BBS computer.

An alternative to operating all client executables on a single 
PC is to distribute the processing over a Microsoft Network. 
The server executable runs on a Windows NT (workstation or 
server) PC while the client modules can be run on either the 
server PC or networked PCs running either Windows 95 or Windows 
NT.  The advantage of separating some client operations from 
the server is increased power through distributed processing.  
For example, in an extremely active system the sysop may find 
it advantageous to establish three PCs, one for the Server and 
TCP/IP connectivity, including WWW access, and two others, each 
running a rack of 32 modems with its own copy of the Modem 
Controller Client. Use of the client/server model provides a 
number of advantages:

32-bit Windows multitasking means no additional multitasking 
software is needed and 16-32 lines can be run easily without 
loading multiple copies of the BBS.

The entire BBS configuration in our client/server model can be 
modified even while in full operation, but only by authorized 
personnel. The system server accepts change requests and 
implements them as soon as usage permits.

The number of inbound sessions on a single computer is 
significantly increased. Thanks to the enhanced multitasking of 
both 32-bit Windows platforms, a much larger number of 
connections is possible on any given PC. As inbound access (via 
modem, telnet, HTTP, etc.) reaches the processor limits for any 
given PC, additional client PCs can be added which communicate 
automatically with the server. Clients for modems, HTTP, telnet 
and other activities can be operated on a single PC or on a 
variety of additional systems, depending on load.

This new generation BBS can truly isolate the core of the host 
activities, providing secure, private system access even to 
local users. The server portion of the system is established in 
an area on disk with restricted user access.  The server 
controls all access to messages, files and other system 
information. Requests are submitted to the server by all 
support programs and third-party utilities through an easily 
adopted application program interface (API). This methodology 
has the added advantage of allowing the actual BBS program-flow 
code to be written in wcCODE and to be fully customizable.

True Client/server technology provides total flexibility.  It 
allows the sysop to offer a BBS on a desktop platform and to 
expand the system capabilities as desired.

-------------------------------------
* Standard Wildcat! 5 Modules
-------------------------------------
Included With Every BBS Create a Foundation

The following modules and clients come with the standard 
Wildcat! 5 package.

* Server module
This module provides the base functionality for processing all 
database and configuration requests through a published API 
structure.

* Local or LAN Client
This module is included with every package and is used by 
anyone connecting at the host PC.  It can also be used by 
anyone on the network for local login. It is an ANSI text 
connection. Note that the graphical Wildcat! Navigator which is 
designed for remote connection also can be used locally for a 
graphical local connection.

* Online Client
This module is included with every package and answers the 
phone for all dial-in lines. It can present the BBS information 
to a caller in ANSI, ASCII or in full graphics when called with 
the free Wildcat! Navigator.

* QWK Echo Client 
This module is included with every package and handles QWK mail 
exchange processing between the host and other BBSs.

* TAPI Client
This module is included with every package and provides a link 
to the Windows Telephony Application Program Interface.  It 
talks to TAPI-aware add-on cards or hardware that offer ISDN, 
X.25 or other connectivity.

* Wildcat! Navigator
This module is a set of freely-distributable Windows programs 
for callers to experience full multimedia when connected.  This 
program suite operates on Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT 
and any OS/2 release with Windows support. It can also be run 
locally, over a LAN or via a telnet connection. The core 
language of the Wildcat! Navigator is HTML, the language of the 
World Wide Web.

---------------------------------
* Optional Wildcat! 5 Modules
---------------------------------
Increase Client/Server Power

The following modules are optional add-on accessories and are 
purchased separately.

* Internet Connectivity Package
This optional accessory package handles Internet connectivity 
and includes several individual clients:

UUCP Module - This module handles Internet email and newsgroup 
support via UUCP. It includes a program for connecting to an 
internet service provider via dial or UUCPD, and tosses 
messages into the Wildcat! system. Callers can send and receive 
Internet email and participate in newsgroup message exchange. 
It also supports feeding messages to downline nodes. (available 
as part of the  initial release)

Telnet Module - This module enables the Online Module to also 
answer inbound telnet callers. It connects callers to the BBS 
when they connect from a remote internet site. In this mode it 
acts as a telnet server. With the telnet module installed the 
BBS also supports outbound telnet sessions requested by 
callers, connecting them to other locations on the internet. In 
this mode the BBS acts as a telnet client for the caller. 
Inbound telnet connections support ANSI, ASCII and the Wildcat! 
Navigator interface. (available as part of the  initial release)

FTP Module - This module enables the Online Module to also 
answer FTP connection requests. It responds to inbound FTP file 
requests and functions as a FTP server. Requests can be made 
anonymously for a restricted file set, or using a name and 
password on the BBS for FTP access to files based on the 
caller's access profile. This module also allows callers to 
make FTP requests to locations outside the BBS. (available as 
part of the  initial release)

WWW Module - This module functions as an HTTP proxy server that 
allows inbound callers using the Wildcat! Navigator to surf the 
World Wide Web.  It also supports inbound HTTP connections from 
callers using any browser, allowing them to view the BBS HTML 
screens. (available as part of the  initial release)

PPP Module - This module allows callers to make a connection to 
the BBS with any Winsock layer to establish a path for true 
TCP/IP connectivity. With a PPP connection callers can run 
their choice of applications while connected to the net, 
including mail applications such as Eudora, other telnet 
clients, and browsers other than the Wildcat! Navigator, such 
as Netscape. (available as part of a maintenance update after 
initial release)

Dynamic HTML Module - This module provides BBS connectivity to 
inbound callers connecting using a WWW browser. It functions as 
an HTTP server that dynamically creates HTML files for file and 
message data and is fed by a  set of display files in HTML 
format customized by the sysop. (available as part of a 
maintenance update after initial release)

SMTP  Module - This module provides support for simple mail 
transfer protocol. It provides full management for sending and 
receiving internet email. (available as part of a maintenance 
update after initial release)

* IRC Module
This module provides a link to internet relay chat to expand 
the live discussion capabilities of the BBS. It functions as an 
irc client for callers.  Note that standard inter-node chat is 
supported without this module.

* NNTP Module
This module provides support for network news transfer protocol 
messaging and processes mail from an Internet NNTP server (many 
providers offer nntp mail services). It provides the link to 
allow callers to read and reply to usenet newsgroups.

* wcEXCHANGE Mail Client
This optional module provides a link to Microsoft Exchange 
using the Windows Mail Application Program Interface.  It 
provides a mechanism to have both email and conference mail be 
routed to Exchange on a local area network.

* wcCODE Development Package
This optional package is a new, enhanced high-speed 32-bit 
development language so powerful that all standard BBS 
functions are written in it. The wcCODE package allows the 
sysop to create custom BBS operations and programs to be run by 
the caller.

* wcCODE Plus Pack
For total customization of all online activity the wcCODE 
source for all ANSI/VT-100 BBS functions is available for 
purchase. (Requires wcCODE)

* ODBC Database Client
This optional module provides remote connectivity to database 
processing using the ODBC standard, accessible via wcCODE 
applications.

* wcREPORTS [wcPRO]
This optional module provides extensive reporting on BBS usage 
and activities.

* wcBILLING
This optional module provides a complete billing for pre-pay or 
post-pay systems.

* wcSUBSCRIBE
This optional module provides for online processing of credit 
cards and personal checks.  Real-time processing requires an 
internet connection and batch processing is available via 
modem.  You must have a merchant account to make use of the 
credit card processing, but no merchant account is required for 
the online check processing.

----------------------------------------
* How Do I Set Up a Client/Server BBS?
----------------------------------------
The configuration of Wildcat! 5 is very similar to the DOS 
Wildcat! BBS except that all configuration programs are 32-bit 
graphic Windows applications. Once you have run the 
installation and configuration programs you maintain the BBS 
using other Windows applications that provide functionality 
similar to the DOS Wildcat! MAKEMENU, MAKEWILD, MAKEQUES, 
wcFILE, and other support programs.

---------------------------
* How Do Callers Connect?
---------------------------
There are several methods for callers to connect to your 
Wildcat! 5 BBS and several types of presentation:

Dial-in modem callers using a standard comm package receive 
standard ANSI screens, just like WC4.

Dial-in modem callers using the free Wildcat! Navigator package 
receive a full graphical HTML presentation. The BBS main "page" 
and all other informational pages such as bulletins, etc. are 
created by the sysop as HTML (www) documents using any HTML 
editor.  We expect to bundle an HTML authoring tool with the 
package.

Telnet inbound connections using a standard telnet or comm 
package receive ANSI screens, just like WC4. (requires the 
Internet Connectivity Package)

Telnet inbound connections using the Wildcat! Navigator receive 
a full graphical HTML presentation.  (requires the Internet 
Connectivity Package)

FTP inbound connection requests can log in as "guest" or 
"anonymous" for limited file access as set by the sysop, or can 
log in as a BBS user with the correct password for full file 
lists based on BBS access profiles. (requires the Internet 
Connectivity Package)

HTTP inbound can be made using any browser (Netscape, Mosaic, 
etc.) and will receive dynamically generated HTML pages for 
files and messages, with other information and other "pages" 
prepared by the sysop as HTML documents. (requires the Internet 
Connectivity Package with the Dynamic HTML Module, expected in 
2nd qtr '96).

---------------------------------------
* What Internet Services Can I Offer?
---------------------------------------
If you add the Internet Connectivity Package your callers can 
make use of a number of Internet services by dialing in using 
any ANSI terminal. By connecting to you over a standard phone 
line they are able to establish an internet email address, 
telnet to any other internet location, access files via  ftp at 
any other location, and they can participate in internet 
newsgroup discussions.  If they dial-in  using the free 
Wildcat! Navigator they can do all the above plus surf the 
World Wide Web using the browser included in the Navigator.

After the release of the additions to the Internet Connectivity 
Package expected in 2nd quarter '96, callers can expand their 
Internet connectivity to allow them full use of any internet 
applications they desire since you will be able to provide them 
with a PPP connection.

-----------------------------
* What Hardware Will I Need?
-----------------------------
Wildcat! 5 was designed to provide a platform for everything 
from a single line BBS to a 1,000 line corporate connectivity 
server. The same set of client/server modules are used in all 
installations.

For a simple one or two line BBS the easiest installation 
platform would be a 486/66 PC with 8 MB of memory running 
Windows 95. The standard communications ports in the PC can be 
used and the sysop just needs to run the Server Module and the 
Online Client.  Minimize these two programs on the desktop and 
your BBS is operational.  To login locally you run the Wildcat! 
Navigator for a full graphical BBS session.

As the BBS expands the sysop might add a multiport card from 
Digi, Comtrol, Stallion, Equinox or any other manufacturer that 
offers Windows 95 or NT support. A 4 or 16 port card can be 
installed in the same 486 PC to increase line count and the 
only additional hardware changes might be to add additional 
memory to 16 MB. The same Modem Client will handle the 
additional lines with the installation of a line count increase 
module.

Further expansion of the BBS can be accomplished in many ways. 
As line count increases the power of the PC can be increased to 
handle the added load by moving to a Pentium 90-120 MHz CPU. 
With the technology available today it is entirely possible to 
operate a single-box PC that can address hundreds of incoming 
lines and other connections by taking advantage of the 
multi-processor capabilities of the Windows NT platform.  
Multiport cards from 16 to 128 ports are readily available for 
the NT platform.

For those that would rather make use of a LAN environment for 
BBS connectivity, Wildcat! 5 also has a solution. By using 
Windows NT (Server or Workstation) the sysop can establish a 
server PC that handles the core server duties and allows 
separate PCs to handle different aspects of the remote 
connection. Each Client module can be operated on a networked 
PC running Windows 95 or NT, and will communicate with the 
server PC automatically. No messy drive mappings and no 
specific Networking components are required, other than those 
that come with Windows NT (workstation or server) and Windows 
95. This type of distributed processing system really make 
sense for large systems with several different types of access, 
including local, TCP/IP, modem, X.25 and ISDN.  Different 
client processes can be run on less-powerful PCs depending on 
their load.

---------------------------------------------
* What about Novell and LANtastic Networks?
---------------------------------------------
Wildcat! 5 is totally compatible with NetWare or LANtastic. A 
workstation PC on a LAN can run Windows 95 or Windows NT and 
operate the complete BBS. Other LAN PCs can access the BBS 
using the Local/LAN client.

Although the BBS PC can access files located on the NetWare or 
LANtastic server drives, all BBS server and client files must 
be located on PCs running NT or 95 with the exception of the 
downloadable files, which can be located anywhere on the LAN.  
The same cabling for NetWare or LANtastic connectivity 
(ethernet is assumed) is automatically used by the Windows 
networking to share BBS client/server data using TCP/IP.

----------------------
* Can it Run Doors?
----------------------
Wildcat! 5 supports DOS-based doors on all port connections, 
and includes a program for DOS program redirection. However, 
operation of 16-bit DOS doors does limit the number of lines 
that can be supported on any given PC. Programs specifically 
written in the new 32-bit wcCODE are an exception, and do not 
cause this system degradation.  Testing is the only method to 
determine the actual impact of a specific DOS door on your 
Wildcat! 5 system. Each DOS door affects system performance 
differently depending on the language it was developed in and 
what resources it uses.

* Doors under Windows NT
Doors do not require any modification and operate in their own 
memory session for each node. Door operation is virtualized, a 
process that isolates the door itself from the port, and 
prevents it from knowing whether it is talking to a standard 
com port, a DigiBoard or a telnet connection.  All doors all 
think they are talking to a standard COM 1. For specifics on 
how to run doors, see Part 2 of this document.

* Doors Under Windows 95
Doors must be able to talk to the actual port in use for each 
node via DOS. Unless the door is written in wcCODE it will not 
be able to access multiport boards that use a Windows 95 
driver. For specifics on how to run doors, see Part 2 of this 
document.

-------------------------------------
* Release Information and Pricing
-------------------------------------
No specific release date has been set for Wildcat! 5, but the 
target date is early 1996.  The majority of the program modules 
are expected to be available in 1st quarter `96 but some 
optional modules will not become available 2nd quarter or later.

The Wildcat! Navigator will be posted for download and 
wide-area testing in January.  A patch upgrade to the wcSERVER 
component of the Preview CD ROM will also be made available at 
that time to enable CD owners to make use of the Wildcat! 
Navigator for their callers.


Product                         MSRP  75% off 66.6% off Availability
------------------------------  ----  ------- --------- --------------
Wildcat! 5 M2 (2 node + local)  $149    $ 37    $ 49     1st qtr.`96
Wildcat! 5 M16 (16 node)        $349    $ 87    $115     1st qtr.`96
Wildcat! 5 M32 (32 node)        $699    $174    $230     1st qtr.`96
8 Pack Node Increase            $199    $ 49    $ 65     1st qtr.`96
32 Pack Node Increase           $699    $174    $233     1st qtr.`96
wcEXCHANGE Module               $499    $124    $169     1st qtr.`96
wcCODE Development Lang. & IDE  $149    $ 37    $ 49     1st qtr.`96
wcCODE Plus Pack                $349    $ 87    $115     1st qtr.`96
Internet Connectivity Package   $249    $ 62    $ 83   1st/2nd qtr.`96*
NNTP Module                     ------to be set-----     2nd qtr.`96
IRC Module                      $149    $ 37    $ 49     2nd qtr.`96
ODBC Database Client            $799    $199    $265     2nd qtr.`96
wcREPORTS [wcPRO]               $149    $ 37    $ 49     2nd qtr.`96
wcBILLING                       $149    $ 37    $ 49     2nd qtr.`96
wcSUBSCRIBE                     $ 99    $ 24    $ 33     2nd qtr.`96


* Portions of this product will be added following the initial 
release,  see previous text for details.    

key - MSRP - Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price
75% off - to participants in the special Pre-Release CD program
66.6% off - to any Wildcat! sysop with a valid registration number

-----------------------------------------------------
* What are the Plans for the DOS Version of Wildcat!?
-----------------------------------------------------
The current DOS version of Wildcat! will continue to be 
supported and updated by its own separate team of engineers.  
We have no current plans for a native OS/2 BBS system and do 
not anticipate such development in the foreseeable future.

NOTE: The products & prices above were listed on the Wildcat! web 
page January 1996.

===============================================================