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Atari XL manual Transpose Characters

Models: XL

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The Last Word 3.0 Reference Manual

A screenshot of the completed macro is shown below.

Save the macro as “FONTSET.MAC” and then load it with <Shift+Ctrl+M>. Now, when you press <Shift+Ctrl+O> and type – for example – MACRO at the “Font set” prompt, LW will load both the 40 and 80 column versions of the MACRO font (if either font can’t be found on disk, the macro will simply terminate).

We can refine this macro further by hiding screen updates. By placing the <Select+Ctrl+Z> set options command in the macro, followed by H immediately before the first <Select+Ctrl+F> Load Font command, we can turn off the screen at that point. We could place <Select+Ctrl+Z> followed by V to turn it on at the end of the macro, although in this case it’s not really necessary since screen updates are automatically re-enabled when a macro ends or is prematurely terminated by an error or the <Esc> or <Break> keys.

The revised macro looks like this:

In operation, the macro is now indistinguishable from a built-in command.

TRANSPOSE CHARACTERS

LW doesn't have a command to transpose mistyped characters, but we can create this command using a macro.

Note: this macro is included in the LW.MAC macro supplied on the distribution disk, along with macros to transpose words and paragraphs.

We'll write the transpose adjacent characters macro first.

We'll put this macro on <ESCAPE> <CTRL+T> for transpose. To make entry of this macro easier, first type <CTRL+CAPS> to go into "control" mode. This feature disables LW's commands, enabling you to type control keys without preceding them with

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Page 48
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Atari XL manual Transpose Characters
Page 47 Page 49

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.