Introduction, Overview of the Last Word

The Last Word 3.0 Reference Manual

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 OVERVIEW OF THE LAST WORD

Welcome to THE LAST WORD, the brand new 80 column word processor for Atari XL/XE computers, and one of the most powerful text editors ever written for the 8-bit Atari. The Last Word (LW) combines many of the innovative features found in public domain text editors like TextPro with capabilities of established commercial packages such as AtariWriter Plus and The First XLEnt Word Processor. This means LW offers:

Full 80 column editing on-screen (switchable to 40 columns at any time)

Horizontally scrolling editing window of up to 240 columns

Editing of up 10 files simultaneously on a memory expanded machines

Sophisticated keyboard macro language

80 column print preview

Versatile cut and paste features

Search and replace, including reverse search

High speed editing, even at the top of large files

Comprehensive on-line help system

Feature-packed file selector/file management menu with up to 80 filenames in a scrolling window and support for SpartaDOS X directories with time/date stamps

Support for SpartaDOS X, MyDOS, DOS 2.5 and many DOS 2 derivatives

User-definable tab ruler

Customizable, plain-text printer drivers

Plain-text configuration files

Completely redefinable keyboard layout

All international characters visible on the screen

Comprehensive print formatting commands

Automatic heading levels

Indents, hyphenation, and much more...

First written in 1999 and completely revamped ten years later to use an 80 column display, LW is one of the few word processors to be written for the Atari XL/XE in the last twenty years.

1-5

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.