The Last Word 3.0 Reference Manual

5 PRINTING WITH LW

LW's print processor is one of the most comprehensive of any Atari word processor. Useful features abound to make life easier when printing complex documents.

5.1 PREVIEWING TEXT

<CTRL+V>

Preview printed pages. Text is sent to a 20 line, 80 column

 

window almost exactly as it will appear when printed. Page breaks

 

appear as rows of dashes, and page wait is active if selected.

 

Pause the output with <CTRL+1> or by holding down <SELECT>

 

or <OPTION>. Pressing <START> at any time will skip to the next

 

page, and <BREAK> will return you to the editor.

5.2 KEEPING TRACK OF PAGINATION

<CTRL+?>

"Where's the cursor on the printed page?" This is an innovation

 

also seen on TextPro, and simply prints the page and line number

 

of the text under the cursor.

5.3 EDITOR PRINT COMMANDS

<SHIFT+CTRL+P> Print text. This brings up a menu of 3 choices. Pressing "P" will send text straight to the printer. Choosing "S" previews text in exactly the same way as <CTRL+V> from the editor. "D" allows you to type a filename and send formatted output to disk or another device (default filename extender is "PRN"). Note that the preview screen always becomes active when printing documents. Output can be abandoned by pressing <BREAK>.

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Image 27
Atari XL manual Printing with LW, Previewing Text, Keeping Track of Pagination, Editor Print Commands, Ctrl+V

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.