Volume 3 Number 7 Issue #50 Circulation 18,231 May 27th, 1997


We're Hiring. We have an immediate need for a full-time or part-time computer instructor. Applicants must be experts with DOS, Windows 3.1, and Windows 95 as well as the Microsoft Office line of products (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint). Interested applicants please mail your resume to PO Box 1453, Buffalo NY 14225 or fax to 716-833-6724. No phone calls please.


Q: I currently operate with a 286 computer that has DOS-based software customized for my company. My vendor told me that in order to upgrade my hardware, I would also have to upgrade my software at a considerable expense. An associate of mine told me that my DOS programs should run under Windows. Is this correct? > Brian, Williamsville NY

A: Brian, most DOS applications will run just fine under Windows 3.1, 95, and NT. You may need to create or modify a PIF (program information file) or ShortCut for that program which tells Windows what the proper DOS settings are to use (contact your software vendor for which settings need to be modified). Now, while it is possible that your software vendor really is just trying to soak you for a few more thousand dollars, there are some programs out there that simply will NOT run under Windows. The best thing you can do is to simply make a backup of your system and then give it a try. If it doesn't work, you can always restore from your original backup. >Rick


Is Your Software In The Dark Ages?

Do you have newer computer systems in your office, but you're still running ancient DOS-based software? We can take your old DOS database applications and re-write them with a nice new efficient Windows-based interface. You will benefit from the increased functionality and user friendliness of a Windows database. If you would like more information, please call and request document #705271. Why struggle with old software?


Upgrade Your PC To A Fast 6x86

Is your computer running a bit slow? Do you want to upgrade to today's latest software but find that your PC doesn't meet the minimum requirements? Are you tired of waiting for your computer? Allow us to recommend a motherboard upgrade. We can take your old 486 and upgrade it to a fast new 6x86 (Pentium-class) system for as little as $355. This price includes a new motherboard, processor, and service. If you would like complete details on this offer, please call and request document #705272. There is no obligation.


Q: What's the difference between a Pentium and a Pentium Pro?

A: The Pro uses a 64-bit internal data path, twice the size of a Pentium (think of it as the difference between a 4-lane and an 8-lane highway: same speed, but many more cars can get through). Because of this, the Pro can execute as many as five sets of instructions simultaneously. Furthermore, if there are not enough instructions to work on, the processor guesses at which ones will be needed next. Intel calls this Speculative Execution. In addition, the Pro can predict exactly where in memory the next instructions will be located - rather than having to search for them. The Pentium Pro tests as high as 61% faster than the Pentium 200 MHz chip. Only true 32-bit operating systems like Windows NT (not Windows 95) running 32-bit applciations will offer this kind of performance. There are also other processors such as the K6 from AMD and the M2 soon to be released from Cyrix. >Don


AMD K6-200 MMX is here! The Amicron Gamma 9705 includes the new 200 MHz K6 processor with MMX technology, 64 MB of RAM, a 4.0 GB Western Digital hard drive, a 4 MB PCI video card, 33.6 fax/modem, 16X CD-ROM drive, SoundBlaster AWE64 Wavetable sound card, huge 240W speakers (with a subwoofer), Windows 95 SR2, and our Gold Service Package. Now, a system like this comes with a $2884 price tag, but believe us, if you're into high-powered applications, - it's worth it. We have other systems available for businesses of all sizes. Complete packages starting at only $793. Request document #705273 for details.


COMPUTER TRAINING

The complete May-July 1997 schedule for open-enrollment classes in our Executive Training Center has been released. If you would like to learn more about the software you use - Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, WordPerfect, Windows 3.1/95/NT, the Internet, and more - then call and request document #705274 for a schedule, pricing, and details. We have classes available for everyone - individuals and corporate customers as well. We also offer on-site training. Call today for more information - or a detailed course outline. After all, your computer is useless if you don't know how to use it!


Now is the time for PCDoctor Preventative Maintenance service to make sure your computer is running properly. Only $49 carry-in or $59 on-site. Request document #705275 for details.


Call and request document #705276 for our Software Picks of the Month. We are always offering discounted prices on selected new software titles such as Microsoft Office 97 and System Commander.


Network your office computers together. Share printers, CD-ROM drives, Email, files, and more. It is a relatively easy and cost-effective way to greatly increase your office information efficiency! Request document #705277 for details.