Embedded Commands, Stage 1 Commands, L20Return

The Last Word 3.0 Reference Manual

All the above commands will read any included files (see later) unless you comment out include statements. This means that you can always know exactly where you are on the printed page, even in documents made up of many different files.

5.4 EMBEDDED COMMANDS

LW has a wealth of print formatting commands which will allow you to tailor your printed output exactly to your needs. Formatting commands follow these simple rules:

Formatting commands consist of 1 or 2 letter alphanumeric symbols, entered in reverse video, often followed by numeric or textual arguments.

Formatting commands may be in either upper or lowercase.

Numeric arguments of formatting commands are entered in reverse video.

String arguments (footer lines, header lines and filenames) are entered in normal video.

Stage 1 formatting commands, either singly or grouped together, must be the first things on a line. They may be optionally terminated with a <Return>. Note: if a string of Stage 1 formatting commands end in <Return>, a blank line will NOT be output in the printed document.

Formatting commands must not contain extraneous spaces.

Here are some examples of print formatting commands:

l20<Return>

Sets the left margin to 20.

l20r60hello<Return>

Sets the left margin to 20, the right to 60, then prints "hello." 20 spaces from the left of the page.

fcPage <Return>

Defines a running footer which prints the current page number.

5.4.1 STAGE 1 COMMANDS

The following commands, entered as inverse characters in upper or lower case, affect the size and layout of the page. Generally, they should be the first things on a line. Where numeric arguments are required (n), these are entered, also in reverse video, directly after the command. Several commands may be placed together consecutively on a line. Commands may be followed by a <RETURN> (which will NOT print).

<n>	First page to print.	a2	will start output at page 2. Default is 1.
	Set bottom margin, default 61. This is measured in lines from the
<n>
	top of the page, and is the last line on which body text will print.
	With a page length of 66, a bottom margin of 61 will print 5 blank
	lines at the foot of each page. Ensure you leave enough lines to
	print your footer (if any), which may be up to 3 lines long. If the
	footer doesn't fit, it won't print.
	5-28

XL specifications

The Atari XL series, launched in 1982, represented a significant evolution in home computing, building upon the foundation laid by the Atari 400 and 800 systems. This line of computers included popular models such as the Atari 600XL and 800XL, both of which combined affordability with robust capabilities, making them attractive options for home users, educators, and enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of the Atari XL series was its color display capabilities. The systems supported a resolution of 320x192 pixels with a vibrant palette of 128 colors, which enabled rich graphics for games and applications. This was complemented by the system's powerful Antic graphics chip that allowed for advanced video display modes, making the Atari XL series particularly popular for gaming and multimedia applications.

Another key technology driving the Atari XL series was its use of the 6502 processor, which delivered efficient performance and allowed for smooth multitasking. The systems typically came with 64KB of RAM, expandable to 128KB, providing ample memory for running multiple applications simultaneously, a notable feature in comparison to other microcomputers of the time.

The Atari XL series also introduced a new, user-friendly operating system known as Atari DOS. This improved disk management capabilities, making it easier for users to manage files and applications on floppy disks. The systems were equipped with built-in BASIC programming language, enabling users to dive into programming and coding, fostering a generation of hobbyists and developers.

Each model in the Atari XL series came with a distinctive keyboard design, offering both a chic and functional layout. The keyboards were known for their tactile feel, making them suitable for typing and coding over extended periods.

Additionally, the Atari XL computers were compatible with a wide range of peripherals, such as printers, modems, and disk drives, enhancing their versatility. Users could also take advantage of a rich library of software, including educational programs, productivity tools, and an ever-growing selection of games.

The Atari XL series not only boasted solid technology and capabilities but also garnered a devoted community. The systems contributed to a vibrant culture of gaming and computing in the early 1980s, which remains fondly remembered by enthusiasts today. With their combination of innovative technology, user-centric design, and a diverse software library, the Atari XL series played a crucial role in the evolution of home computing.