The Last Word 3.0 Reference Manual

running LW under an unsupported DOS, you MUST create a custom LW.SYS file containing the following line:

BANKED ON

Since LW can’t differentiate between used and free banks when running under an unsupported DOS, the internal list it builds when it first starts up is of ALL the extended memory banks present on the system. Therefore, if you wish to configure LW to use only specific banks of extended memory while co-existing with any installed RAMdisks or other parts of DOS residing in extended RAM, you must first know which banks of RAM are used by the operating system and specify only UNUSED banks after the “BANKS” statement.

Examples:

BANKED ON

BANKS 1,2,3,4

The above LW.SYS file used with an unsupported DOS on a 128K machine will cause LW to allocate three extended text banks, a 19K main text bank, and a single extended bank for its macro/paste/directory buffer.

BANKED ON

BANKS 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12

RESERVE 1

In the above example, assuming LW is running on a 320K machine under an unsupported DOS which is using the lowest four banks of extended memory as a RAMdisk, LW will allocate one bank for its macro/paste/directory buffer, six banks for extended text buffers, and reserve a single bank for use by extensions. It will do this while avoiding the lowest four banks of extended RAM (those in use by the operating system’s RAMdisk, and having the banking values $23, $27, $2C, $2F).

Clearly when using unsupported RAMdisks with LW, careful planning is required. However, when using an unsupported DOS with no RAMdisks or other components residing in extended memory, it’s safe to have an LW.SYS consisting of just a “BANKED ON” instruction. This will simply cause LW to use as many banks as it needs (up to a maximum of 16), yielding up to ten text banks. If there aren’t 16 banks fitted to the system, LW will simply use as many as it can find.

8.3.3 THE SEARCH PATH

The search path allows you to access LW’s config, macro, printer driver and font files from specified drives/paths on the system without typing the pathnames every time you load the files.

PATH D8:;D1:>LW

This line in a config file will cause LW to first search the current directory of drive 8 followed by the folder “LW” on drive 1 when loading fonts, macros, printer drivers and config files, when no other path has been supplied. Note that if the file is not found by searching the specified paths, the default drive will ALWAYS be searched last. Note also that LW’s default drive is not necessarily the same as DOS’s default drive (usually “D:”). LW’s default drive specifier is the same as the disk menu drive number and is prepended to all filenames for which no device identifier has been explicitly provided. If

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Atari XL manual Search Path, Banks 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12, Path D8D1LW
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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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