The Last Word 3.0 Reference Manual

By working out where in the table the key combination you want to redefine resides, you can totally remap the keyboard. For example, you could have the following line in LW.SYS:

KEY 10,97

This will redefine the <P> key so that when you press it, the lowercase letter “a” will be produced. Note that this means that pressing <P> will produce the letter “a” everywhere in the program. The most useful application for this would be to produce things like DVORAK keyboard layouts.

You could use this tool to redefine the commands in LW, too. As another example, perhaps we want to put the “Cut” command on <Ctrl+X>, as it is in all Microsoft Windows applications. First, we work out where <Ctrl+X> is in the keyboard table. “X” is character 22 in the table, and the control characters are in the third block of 64 bytes, so we add 128 (to skip the first two blocks) to 22 and we get 150. LW’s “Cut” command is called with ATASCII code 3 (Ctrl+C), so this is the code we want <Ctrl+X> to produce. So we write:

KEY 150,3

This statement in LW.SYS will redefine <Ctrl+X> so that it produces the <Ctrl+C> character. Not only does this mean that <Ctrl+X> will now be a “Cut” command, but it also means that <Ctrl+Esc>,<Ctrl+X> will now (perhaps confusingly) put the <Ctrl+C> character into your document. One advantage of this method is that it won’t upset macros in any way: <Ctrl+C> in a macro will still call LW’s “Cut Block” routine.

Something to consider when redefining the keyboard in this way is that for every key you redefine, you need to redefine its “complement”, otherwise you will have two keys producing the same code. For example, if you’ve redefined <Ctrl+X> to call the cut command (which was on <Ctrl+C>), you need to redefine another key to produce the ATASCII code 24 (Ctrl+X) in order to operate the “Exit to DOS” command. It’s wise to plan things out beforehand, otherwise it can become confusing. However, it’s perfectly possible to remap the keyboard so that many of the keyboard commands follow the mnemonics of those in Microsoft Windows applications, and such a keyboard file (WINKEYS.SYS) is supplied on the distribution disk as an example.

Note that the 1200XL’s function keys are fully supported by LW, and you can assign the commands of your choice to the twelve possible key combinations.

8.6.2 REMAPPING COMMANDS USING MACROS

The second way of redefining the keyboard takes advantage of LW’s macro capability and has the advantage that each key will still produce the expected character. Using macros, however, it’s possible to translate a command keystroke into a different one before it gets processed by the program.

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Atari XL manual Remapping Commands Using Macros, KEY 10,97, KEY 150,3
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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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