15 May 05
Download Page for "The Mill"
Version
Mill04a
by Jim Farrior, W4FOK
-- A computer program dedicated to wireless and land
line telegraphy --
The original
version of
this popular program was released in 1983 for the Apple (DOS only)
computer.
Introducing
a new version of "The Mill" (mill04a)
Please bookmark this page for easy
return.
Various issues have been
reported by those using XP or similar systems. A new version,
mill04a, has been developed that should work with all of the operating
systems presently in use. It
also includes some updates and corrects some glitches that were
reported in version
mill02a.
With respect to running DOS programs, there are two types of Windows
operating systems. The first type consists of those (like Windows 98)
that provide a convenient way to run DOS programs (under both Windows
DOS and true MS-DOS), and the second type consists of recent Windows
versions that don't
(like Windows XP).
Users of both types must download the mstr04a_.exe file to a
folder
of choice (other than C:\mill04a). When that file is executed, a
combination read-me and
installation file, "installC.bat", will run automatically. The read-me
portion of the file will display important information about the
installation and will then install the program in a C:\mill04a
folder. Using the means provided by the operating
system, first type users will be able to operate the
program from that folder under both Windows DOS and true MS-DOS in the
same manner
as with previous versions of "The Mill".
Some second type users, those having the FAT32 filing system system (in
lieu of the NTFS) may find that they can also run the program from the
C:\mill04a under Windows DOS; however, to have access to the serial
port output, the program must be run under true MS-DOS. This may
require booting the computer to a DOS boot disk.
Those second type users who can not run the program from the C:\mill04a
folder must
system-format a blank floppy and place the bootable floppy in
their A drive. They must then go to the C:\mill04a folder
and execute a combination read-me and installation file,
installA.bat, and
the program files previously installed in C:\mill04a will be
automatically copied to
the bootable floppy, thereby
creating a bootable "Program Disk". "The Mill" will open when the
computer is booted to the Program Disk. The program will operate
from the floppy without requiring access to the C drive, and will be
running in
true MS-DOS, which means that the serial port output will be available
for those who desire to operate sounders or keying relays.
If they wish, first type users
can also
follow the instructions provided for second type type
users and run the program from a bootable Program Disk. Some
may find this a more convenient way to run the program, especially
those who are using the program in connection with a railroad or marine
museum or a telegraphy demonstration.
The installation is explained in
greater detail in the read-me portions
of the installation files.
When the
program opens, a Getgoing file and Operational Notes can be accessed at
the Main Menu.
After you have downloaded and
have run the program,
please return to this page and use the e-mail link below to tell me
what computer and operating system you are using, and whether or not
the download and installation worked smoothly for you.
Important Notice: To prevent harvesting of my correct e-mail
address by web crawlers, the character x has been appended to the name
in my e-mail address. When the e-mail form comes up, you must delete
the x before you send the e-mail. Please send me an E-mail. Click here
Thank you.
Jim, w4fok since 1939, CFO #431