The Last Word 3.0 Reference Manual

<CTRL+Z>

Set toggles and test flags. Follow with one of the characters

 

below:

 

 

U

Put the keyboard into uppercase.

 

L

Put keyboard into lowercase.

 

I

Set insert mode.

 

O

Set overtype mode.

 

1-9 or 0 (0=10)

Select the appropriate text bank when

 

 

multiple banks are set up. Bank 1 is

 

 

always the MAIN (unextended) bank, and

 

 

2-10 correspond to banks of extended

 

 

memory.

 

B

Select the text bank the program was in

 

 

when the macro was called.

 

H

Hide the screen display.

 

U

Turn the screen on again.

 

These parameters should be in normal video and each setting

 

requires a separate <CTRL+Z>.

 

As well as setting flags, the <CTRL+Z> command can also test

 

certain conditions:

 

 

M

Test for block marking.

 

S

Test if any text is already selected.

 

C

Test for file edits since the text in memory

 

 

was last saved.

 

A

Test if file has already been saved.

You would precede these tests with a macro branch command.

The branch will occur if the above conditions are FALSE.

7.4.1 DISABLING THE SCREEN FROM MACROS

You can use the:

<SELECT+CTRL+Z> set toggles command

to turn the display on and off from within a macro. Follow with an "H" to "hide" any screen updates, and a "V" to make them visible. Nothing is actually printed to the screen when the display is disabled - the display will immediately change to reflect any changes made by the macro when it is switched on again. This is a great way to make macros run as if they were built-in commands, bypassing the prompts that usually whizz by on the command line. Certain commands - such as print, view, spool, disk menu and the four macro commands which display prompt information - re-enable the display automatically.

7.4.2 SPECIAL CHARACTERS

<CTRL+P>

Entered in a filename dialogue will enter the device, path and

 

name of the current file.

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Atari XL manual Disabling the Screen from Macros, Special Characters
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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.
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