SIBO 'C' Software Development Kit 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Version 2.30 


March 1, 1999 


(C) Copyright Psion PLC 1991-98 


All rights reserved. This manual and the programs referred to herein are copyrighted works of Psion PLC, 
London, England. Reproduction in whole or in part, including utilization in machines capable of 
reproduction or retrieval, without express written permission of Psion PLC, is prohibited. Reverse 
engineering is also prohibited. 


The information in this document is subject to change without notice. 


Psion and the Psion logo are registered trademarks, and Psion, Psion MC, Psion HC, Psion Series 3, Psion 
Series 3a, Psion Series 3a, Psion Siena and Psion Workabout are trademarks of Psion PLC. 


TopSpeed is a registered trademark of Clarion Software Corporation. IBM, IBM XT and IBM AT are 
registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corp. Microsoft and MS-DOS are registered 
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Apple and Macintosh are registered trademarks of Apple Computer 
Inc. VAX and VMS are registered trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation. Brief is a registered 
trademark of Underware Inc. Psion PLC acknowledges that some other names referred to are registered 
trademarks. 


Contents 


1 Introduction to the WorkaDout ...........scscccsccesccsrccesecesccesscssecssecsseeseesessseesesessesseseseesseseseseeees 1-1 
SWitChiti 9: On-atid OFF csc s5 ssecbessyss55sodutn duet cpan ca soonss des panda sucess ssc cuap hash ante dees pes dbsvecup sass 1-1 
Switching on for the first time... eee eeeeeeeneeesseecsneeceseecesaeeesseecsaeecseeseseeeesaeeesaeers 1-1 
StALtUp SSDs. vs cosessscteresies ahs vissasds ues cabs yateanaa ihe sedagues badass cobssaehsaasahecabstustssnesans sabetiss 1-2 

The basic hard Wate: cesccccccseceicccsaccaeccdaceanccsvesanceaessancesevsercedescarcesvsdnecevsccencenvedsa ceneedeaceseadea 1-2 
IPLOGESSOM sa. vovasycustseedevetanteedoteveseds (ents beets lededss evils beetenedess Cotta beet deda tous beebevededagerss bushes 1-3 
Internal MeMOryscss.3 isha hesee ea yhetesiebeseentyheipetiadesycnetes vee deseenedals Sua deiyekaeaeeeeess 1-3 
Solid Statedisks (SSDS) sa. sss seesaheteck Geiss Ak cash aes ice Hen in cee Ghek Hk cae cee Heese aU dee 1-3 
Expansion modules <:.2:.2s:c.cneveiseut ens never sist vei ceavigussosh ues Saveeoabuanaes os aieees 1-3 
Communications’ POrts, .: siete. gedeasveg vest tefoceg ies bent ede vote seeghiet teseceiee paint dhteeeteuegeit aes 1-4 
"PE HOMSter sy cases seecevs gy feet ete beeen deh Sandee eee eaea a daee be ebudanoann edeedeeeddandaanedvvaeebidenieanedeebesy 1-4 
The Workabout Docking Station (Cradle) ............ccceccceeessceceeseeceeeeeneeeeeenneeeeeeneeeeeeeas 1-4 
POWer SUPPLY.ssasice ses sesetieasessie nite avd tht dia ev eaeead ies ey aaeeaE Vee Tne 1-4 
PRG TUS: «. sessthtees ectcede dart edenades Mes taseedeascatatedadeesdesaentadidetersdicnearadisedeaedieeectetedetiaedacbestathe 1-6 
Caution regarding lithium batteries 0.00.0... cee eeeeeeeeneeceneessneeceseeeesaeecsaeesseessneeeesaes 1-6 
DELEEI Fe sevchaticust ectewn vatetoansubest dev Ateteves tics den Selitle ces slive den alnveak tue stn talce sus biunetndaeneeeaveune gone 1-6 
Keyboard iccis scsi ites ccvescaeccstechaceeedcdaccvs ccaacevsdeaecesuccaa sen uccuaseauacaadeasdesacvsecesaevandeseevatcesediaa 1-7 
BUZZEi 2 ooccestitcatetevetans dc tcatetecstagece ecetutecstsench teal tude tatncnde cee tedstathsh Meath tucsscsuce tien siey 1-8 

The: basic: Software vs. fos. de lbess eevsas eavdivs Avda tseaeback Atadees dactdaes Auge bead devded Suan hiae estigs Anatase. 1-8 
Versions of the Workabout software ............::cccssececeesseeeeeeenceeeeeeaeeeeeenneeesseneeeeesneeeees 1-8 
ROM. component scicc.sississsadecisssuecasnastasaapesadaastestgtaspesed subs oseageie sont susvanesessakd Maceohaaess 1-9 
Command: Processor s:ac..:ccscciesesciedessecnedestvahed csnvabedesushedontdenedensanhedenuehe dveaseheduvatenecee 1-9 
System Screen and PIM applications 20.0.0... eeeeeesecesseeesseessseeceseeeesaeecsaeesseeesseeeesaes 1-9 

Resetting the Workabout ..........ccescceesscesseccesseeesseecscecscecsseecesaecesaeecsaeessaceseseesesaeeesaeeseaeess 1-10 
SOM TESCts aie. cori coors Se csctnk geet oe head a ath ecto od eh eteled aie teed AON tte 1-10 
Hard reset. cccses cess scavcessacat ceanceanceana cabevandevedeanacasesaa devedsanccaucues deveiaerccseccaacesvicaacesccaacees 1-10 
COld TESEt: ccesiee, cecditadsinattnessnt ated state voveintede delasids deiatelede lave degnintededadseteiadasebedadarevevacsteles 1-10 
What happens after a reset... eeeeeeseecssceceseeeesseeesseecsacecseecssaecessaeesseessteeesseeeesaes 1-10 

Customising the Workabout ..............cccesscceceeenceeceeecceecesneeeeceeenaeeceseneeeeseaeeeeeeeaseeensnneeeenees 1-10 
Hardware Customisation ............cc:ccccessccceesenceeeeseceeeeeeeeecesnneeeecesseeeeeseaeeeeeeeneeesseeeeess 1-10 
Software CUStOMISATION ...........:cecccceessseeeeeseeeeeeeeeeeceseeceeeeseaeeeceseaeeeeeeneeeeeneeeeeeneneeees® 1-11 

Connecting to other COMPULETS ......... eee eeeeeeseessseecsscecsseeceseecesaeeesaeecsaeecsaeecseesesaeeesatessaeers 1-11 
Hardware connection si.siss3.e.cccccsseicsvecueiessevendesvesendesesdardcenisenccseiderscovicanccesddendcnvcencens 1-11 
SOMWAre: CONMECHON 6.4. cecini Jes Aid cee cbs See RON oeeetid ses abcde eretnehes Glade dens abcteneteeeacts 1-11 

2 Writing Software for the Workabout................ccssssscssssssccsssseccssscesssscsccsssscscesssscsesssscsesssnees 2-1 

Basic programming ChOICES...........::ccceeeecceeeseceeceeneececeenceceeseaeeeceenneeeceeneeeeeseaeeeseeseeeeneaees 2-1 
Standard C (CLIB) or Psion C (PLIB) ou... cccccccssssccccccceesssssneeeeeeeeessesseeeeeeeeesseeaaee 2-1 
Writing the user interface ............ececcccceseccceeesneeeeeeeaeeceesnneeesseaeeeceenneeecseeeeeessaeeeesenees 2-2 
Synchronous or asynchronous Processing ..........:cseseccsseeceseeceseeesseeecseecsseeesseesesaeeesaes 2-2 

CUStoMisatiOn OPtlONS ..........ccccccessncceeesececeeseeeecseeneeeeseeeeeeeeaeeceecesneeeeseeaeeeceenaeeesesneeeeenees 2-3 
Replacin® the: Startup Shell: ss os5-Mcissioie Asti esabiantie Anis aivien Aivisstees 2-3 
Replacing the Command Processot...........::ccscccsssccessseeesseeeeseeeesseecseessneecsseeeesaeeesaeers 2-4 
Replacing the System. Screen ...3..35..ccesesiasesadacseostesisseendoeseesteauaceebdaasoesteaesdeesdbadoeckedist 2-4 
Adding System Screen applications ..........c:cesscesssecsscecsseeeesseeesaeecseecseecesaeeesaeessaeers 2-4 
Supplying:an autoexec files.ci.ccsaeapiean liane ante Ane seis 2-5 

Programming guidelines ............cceecccceessccceeeeeeceeseeeeceeseeeeeeeeeeeceesneeeeceeaeeeeeeeaeeeseenateeensas 2-6 
Some consequences of not running under the System Screen ...........ceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeneees 2-6 
Data inte srity:.iice.vel ist aise. pai ste naval halos Hie ae ein bi ea ain ee! 2-6 
AGO-FIES ss oseedeertedederst cgeatsh ebedetabeteriastatedetepedesavtadigeter obicevatidete wba echadeeetabvnrectahe 2-7 


No access to WLD: or ALMS? .0......ccccccecccccesecccceecceceecceseeeececeuecceeseecceseueccsseuecseseeceees 2-7 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Programming CxaMples...........seeeccesseesssecesseecsseecssceceseeeesseeesececsseecesseeesaeecsaeessneeseseeeenaes 2-8 
The: Vables:applyCation 's:. see. ecs sees teed ses oben ote tt dad avsk cee stetean sab env estedesh ant evened were 2-8 
The: Ledtestiapplicatt on .-.: ss.t.53 ocak civtaden us ioeks cobssah seul eoeieceh iota sguievesocebguhsqus eoubeavdgden ake 2-10 

Workabout specific environment variables ............cccccccessceesseesseeeeeceeeeneeeeneeeseeeeseeenseeensaes 2-10 
SSSVER waccgesdescedaveeniatevt deviated etiveaeavaateiehiveedovia tea edneidivie bei badeaeienen ba deh elated 2-10 
CBP O recoshnten ote a ian settee a ead sai tee led Sah Ook eater ah Ok, Ren loet NA Des, Bon loet al ace, ad 2-10 
CSPA-t0:C$PZi,. env ckn elie ik neni ol bavi wan ev oval seed Wari eweineas oleae. 2-11 
CBRE ote ssena cede vetvDied tot atgateceDecbschasedateneDigvustasteatessdicbantecidstetelestevtedidadesaleva cetedidetetstisess 2-11 
COPS casccescosivscelecevcesnvdiveceeugeatuatohise cued i eaivdivedanvies vecabhavecaiubesndusdiss Gavtauecsaeseeneionees 2-11 


Error! Not a valid heading level in TOC entry on page 1 


Command Processor MENUS ...........sseceeseeesseeeesseessseecseecsseecesaeeesaeecsaeecseeseseesesaeeesaeers 3-1 
Font sizes and ZOOM SettingS ..........cscceeeeccesseeesseecsseeeeseseecseecscecsseeeesseecsaeesseeseneeensaes 3-2 
Batch file processing. 2) ssi s2s8s evts2exs sats Aiveceis ove sees Ave favs chvs cies Ake eehs evssoes Baa subacewscovs aes 3-3 
aun chin Programs: scssscsiiseaiasnsceuteanieendeseapesteansteasasesDeenegasteatsenapeatesustentaaaneeasaayse «ak 3-3 
Synchronous and asynchronous programs...........seceeecesseessseecsneeesseeeesaeeesaeesseeseeeenes 3-4 
Fermin atin ® Programs... iss oisssi asset Asveessaeeiesiaeteal Abvies Lao desiastisss Ancaster ts 3-4 
‘Phe command line: editor’ 2s. cogs is s2.5 saves cavscebaded Sines eevtckes eed stage sttevesiel siseesnieeved aaveeeed ss 3-5 
Pausing the screen: displays, ss.sissssciisgsviceetesissestdashoentactagectdsieeetectaaantdstenteteageetdanteess 3-6 
Running multiple System Interfaces ......... eee eeeeeeseeesseecsseeeeseecesaeecsaeecsaeessseeesseeeesaes 3-6 
Piles:and GireCtOries’ os ssncsedveeetiveg Sane vaup ouste cep set sens ousted ste sutgoent-cupsaseautpeautetey sams svtgeateaestes 3-6 
File In’ Use error Messages, 2..2..,5.0teciyieetuseie denise eegeede denies deeded aie dete denreesese 3-6 
Default path and current CirectOry .......... cc eeeeeeseccsseceseesseecseeceseeessaeecsaeessneeesneeeesaes 3-6 
Specifying file names as command parameters «0.0.0... ce seeeseeeeseeeeeeeceseeeseneeeseerseeeeee 3-7 
Specifying paths as command parameters ............esceesecceseeceseeeseeecsseecseeseseeeeseeeesaes 3-7 
Wildcards..:2i.shts neh heat Rite al aoe pe Bate ey he aeiee ess 3-8 
The requirements of generality... eee ee eeceeseecesneecseecscecessaeeesaeecsaeecsseessneeseseeeesaes 3-8 
Alphabetical listins.4-i.2cs4ccisascstiaictistativesilathcs sts hoeeuds bests Montistbaaatoatisseniaeetionss 3-8 
IN OFA EONS 325 5255s Shek sceh sul ak eons a biota end Seb vce oh Sachs oui Siuycanh ss chgeed Setecbebseehes Daesibcevscre bacnebehes 3-8 
Set or clear file attributes (ATTRIB)............:cccccccssssssecceccesssessneeeeeeeeessesseeeeeeeeeseeenaes 3-9 
Run the calculator application (CALC)... ceeeeseseecsseeseseeceseeeesaeecsaeesseeenseeeeseneers 3-9 
Call a batch file from inside another batch file (CALL)... ccccccccceccceeesessteeeeees 3-9 
Display or alter current directory (CD) ........eeeeeeseceseeesseecsseeceeeeeesaeessaeecseneeessaeeesaes 3-10 
Chanse:direct6ry (GHDIR)::. ei sisacaveere tiie antiess Landis nathan seohie nthe pds abitaa ds 3-10 
Clear the Screen: (CLS): fsce here ocre heise. da tested ential erential eed 3-10 
Run the communications application (COMMS) .........:ceseeesseeceseeeeereeeseessneeeeneeeesas 3-10 
Copy file(s) (CORY) 3 sins ili Bini Shien el ind ale liend etait 3-11 
Run the database application (DATA) ........eeeeeeceseeeeesneeesneeeseeceseeeesaeeesaeessaeessaeeeees 3-11 
Display:date (DATE) s2.cc5s.cceesecustie.duos caus eabvtied tubs falstberensh shin Padhosenss Ra Paes 3-12 
Delete: fle(S)i(DEUS) sxc c.sesissestishigestest cent astagesteaioraneuap eae siseentdeaapseuasloasigaasganaaicasiens 3-12 
Full directory: listing ‘(DER):3: si sk ud segs hess ion Sskeeeuheiieieeiecd ogchenshccebiued sans coubedeagesh oncnenwate 3-12 
Display message, set or display echo mode (ECHO) ..........eseessesseeceeneeseneeesneeeeeeeeee 3-13 
Run the program, script or batch file editor (EDIT) «0.00... eee eeeeeeseeeeseeeeseeeeseeeeeneees 3-13 
Delete: file(s) (ERASE) wce.scisissatashesadaasees na aiitcseaebentacinte pdaviasatassengaweesteaiateendaseastan 3-14 
Display error state (ERRLEVEL) .........eceeceesesseesseecsseeceseeessaeeesaeecsaeecsaeesseeeesaeeesaes 3-14 
Terminate the Command Processor (EXIT) .............ccccssscccecceeessessseeeeeeeseseessseeeeeeeeeees 3-14 
List:open' files: (RULES)... 2..scissetreuks fovdecbedeseescees hia devia ee bivnina cas A wetevs Ake fetta weeens eben 3-14 
Run a command for the files in a set (FOR) ...........cccccesscsssccecceesssesseeeeeeeeessssseeeeees 3-15 
Format and re-label local volume (FORMAT) ............cc:cccccccccessessseeeeeeeeessessseeeeeeeeenes 3-15 
Jump to label in batch file (GOTO)... cee ceeeeececessseeeessneeeceeeaeeeeesnneeesseneeeessneeeess 3-15 
List commands or get help (HELP)...........eeceesceeeseecsseeesseeeeseeeesaeecsaeesseessneessseeeesaes 3-15 
Run command conditionally (IF) ...........:cccccceesssceeeeeseeeceeeeeeceeneeeeeeeeeeeeeeaeeceeeneeeeeseas 3-16 
Kill a process (KILL) .0........eeccccceessceceessceceesneeeeeesaeeecesneeecseaeeecssnaeeceeceeeeeeeseaeeeeeeanees 3-16 
Add/alter disk volume label (LABEL) .............::cccccccsssssscceceeeessessneeeeeeeeessessneeeeeeeeeees 3-16 
Start Link progrart (IINK)) |issscies2.4s sess chee doetcavssibt Ans tout ca vesies Ale devs euereses das Pot eawsoevs devas 3-17 
List logical device drivers (LLDEV)..........:::::ccccsssscceeeeeeeeeeneeeesenneeeseeneeeeeseneeeesetnaaees 3-17 
List physical device drivers (LPDEV)..........:ssccesscessseecsseeceseseeesseecsaeecsaeessneeseseeeesaes 3-18 
List: processes’ (EPROG) oa ssi easievidssiiciecetesiascaassisens aosiesevabachacsansebecuvacevedsansinasusuebeaes 3-18 
List segments (SEG) 5c cecus tess tectes sci dav lieben suis Ses actve cenatvns fevialve bevseeee ies ivedeveteueds 3-19 
Make directory (MD), ici stsnscstcainecsslaiedetda weceatatedeteates castactedah athasstateastag nea lniedes 3-20 
Display free memory (MEM)............:ceesceeesecceseeeseeesseecsacecsseaeeesaeecsaeessaeessneeessaeeesaes 3-20 


INDEX 


Make directory (MKDIR) .............ccecesccceeeenceeeesnceeeeeeneeeceseaeeeceeeeeeeseaeeeeeenaeeeseeneeeeeenee 3-20 
Suspend batch file processing (PAUSE )..........ceseesseessecsseeceseeessneecsaeecsaeesseesssaeeesaes 3-20 
Terminate current batch file (QUIT))..........ccccessscccccccesssesseceeeceeeesessseeeeeecesssesseeeeees 3-20 
Remove directory (RD)..........::ccscccecesscceceeseeeeceeneeeeeeeaeeeceenaceeeeeeeeeeseaeeeseeeaeeeseeneeeeeeeas 3-21 
Get the cause of the last system shutdown (REASON )............:cccsccceeesseeeeceeeeteeeeeenees 3-21 
Comment (remark) in batch file (REM).............cccccccccccesssesseeceeeeeessesseeeeeeeeessesseeeeees 3-21 
Rename file(s) (REN) ............cccccesssscceceessessnseceeeecesseesnsaeeeeceesesseseesaeeeeeceesessnsaeeeeeeeeess 3-22 
Remove directory (RMDIR)............cc:ccccesseceeeeseeeeeeeeeeecesnaeeeeseeeeeeseaeeeseenaeeeseeneeeeeeeas 3-22 
Display, set or delete environment variable (SET) ..........eeeeeseesseecsneeeeseeeeseeeeseeeesaee 3-22 
Alter system Settings (SETDEF) ccc csseesseeeeereesssesesesseseeees 3-23 
Run the spreadsheet application Sh3 (SHEET) ........ eee eeeeeesseeeeneeceneessceseseeseneeeesaes 3-24 
Shift batch file parameters (SHIPT).............:::cessssseceeeeeceeeeneeecesseeeceeneeeeeesneeeesseneeeees 3-24 
Start a process asynchronously (START)... eee eeeeeceesseeeceeseeesesseeeeceseeecesseeeess 3-25 
Stop,a process. (SWOP) ssc natalie ieatenietinner shies eit Noatesarhiel aes 3-25 
Display current time (PIME):0. 30005 so¢ ceusetestegssedekpsdessedg aces sctgedesseegunnd stp odeteedpstonectpens 3-25 
Type'a text file (TYPE) cccciseccavesseecevedsate cspdaetasvedaededeviaatedes donb cdevdsnadderdeioegevagabeaeebanties 3-26 
Display software version numbers (VER) ..........::essccessseesseesssceceseeeeseeeesaeesseesseeessaes 3-26 
Display the disk volume label etc (VOL) .........eeeeesceseseceeseetsseeceseeeesaeecsaeesseeesseeessaes 3-26 
Wait for a process to complete (WAIT) .0.... ee eee eeeseecsseeceseeeesseeesseecsaeessaeesseeeesaeeesaee 3-26 


Error! Not a valid heading level in TOC entry on page 1 


Psion Workabout Technical Specification ......... ce ceeseseseeceseeceseeeesseeesaeessaeecsseeseseeeeseaeers A-1 
Psion Workabout RS232 / RS232 TTL Interface Module - Technical Specification ......... A-3 
Psion Workabout RS232 / Barcode Interface Module - Technical Specification............... A-4 
Conversion of an HC barcode reader for Workabout COnNeCtiONn ...........:sseeeeeeeeeeeeeeee A-5 
Psion Workabout Vehicle Interface Cradle (VIC) - Technical Specification .................... A-5 
3 port and vehicle power OptiON............ecsesecessecsseeseeeceseeceseeeesaeecseesaeecseessneeseseeeesaes A-6 
1 port and vehicle power OptiONn............:::cccessccceeesteeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeeceseeecesnneeeeeeneeeeeeees A-7 
VIC Mounting: brackets: sc).ssisis: hese eesheihietae baile hisdead eid ciiibhiedediasues bidet A-8 
Vehicle:power 1nput:connectors; iss. stiee A siiessess arises thie oetinale arden asiis. estat A-8 
Conventional 9-pin RS232 serial POrts ...........eeeeeseeeesseeeeneeceneeseseeeesaeeesaeecseeseeeeses A-9 
Extended 15-way RS232 serial Port ...........cessccesecceseeeeeseecsseecseeesseeeesaeeesaeessaeesseeeeee A-9 
Psion ETP Connector.2i5..3 2aatied insist Bane cele ae ainidediee A-9 
Psion Workabout Docking Station - Technical Specification ...........eseeseeeeseeeeeeeeeneeeeneees A-10 
Introduction: 2c; aic ities iste ree ee vane teesaea A-10 
Vab amt ocean Mit OS et SN a dee eet ent lal eat a eee atone A-10 
Identification ssesiigev bel is Bee a orb ae ee i ae a) A-10 
Docking Station. Unit: .5.¢:h.scstece sce hecesedeeeeb ene esnsesues estersennpstelevesdcuboatyetheedbedesseshactpease A-10 
Maiti features: -ssscecysivecgistestecopeiyaese tiseeitesoyaees levies. Nenbaons diy belbehen yb mean Tee A-10 
StALUS ANGI CALOLS® «a fet S6es este bet Sheces catch eerie ses dated aacatec tact seh oul ont iasd ots osh uid ntentoet sen ate A-11 
Battery charging... c..sccccssecs ceevadaccsvceaes sat ccgeteandepecdacuvsccaa cus vecdasvauecdesaa devedsanccvescaa cevesees A-11 
Battery Status LED Conditions........... ce eeseesscsseeeeseessneecescecesaeeesecesatecsaeecsaeesseesesaeens A-11 
Charging both battery packs 0.00... ceeeeececeseeeesseeessecsaeecsscecssceceaecesaeesaeessaeessaeeseeeeses A-11 
Battery Fast Charging Conditions............:ccsesssccsseecsseeeeseeesecesceeesaeecsaeessseesesereeeene A-12 
Disharging prior to charging & capacity MeaSUFEMENt ........ eee eeteeeteeeeteeeeeeeeeeeee A-12 
Gar OTT SALES ies ess sce aces Me ede Do veses coteteets stebeded efupeans coyotes deg stetevess Mbsebovigetubewsoees cegerse A-12 
Charsing times! 3c...ysicatsiatiesesine aired stbe nett deste ee ibig dad derbaheeydeneieh A-12 
C@Bar srt elitr tat mi soso. Sse cae a ste Sect cans ols Satsc cone Shad okt ast stestnabuitennt Lestoreedteans A-12 
LIF Mounting Kat sess sccssveen cesccseecsnccdes seu ccgesenvccvecdactesccaa cevvecdaveaue vevaa devvesanccveiaescsbante A-12 
Workabout Holster with Socket Housing ...........seccsccesseccesseeesneecscecseecseecsseeeeseeeesaes A-12 
Workabout Docking Station ......... cee eeeeeeeseccseneeeseecseecsseecesaeeesaeecsaeecsneeeeseeeesaeessaeers A-13 
12V 1 amp unregulated Power Supply...........eeeeeeeeeccesseeesneecsneeceseeeesaeeesaeessaeeseeeeee A-13 


Appendix B - Differences between the HC Command Processor, the Workabout Command 


Processor anid MS-DOS wsssssssccosscsssccscassccescadascencassccsocadaccesesssedennaca cad cacesssdsesenanacascssedsesenscnoassssceane B-1 
| ho A c076 11 (610 (010 Regeenaee oe Rt fenteate Brats tee tae BOE ee aN pT Rae ew at gee tee eat eI eee AE B-1 

A DOut this appendix str csscieee cok abie ceviche eh wend see cu idl odevaued sevoeaans vesksenasebadse savkotncds B-1 

He lip wiatsecdeccedvataeasaccatecdvavacccaa cose dgswa vatecaa cevedsvavetddan cuvedsa vece cane Peavara ee an cous sopvdgsniGbeseats B-1 


iii 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Commands: secscisciasisstecieastceasivadueseisatcesedsetecspicatccavdeatccuyiaad cenvieadussvacsecessatadeesviave ces B-1 
File and directory names.............cccccccesscceesenceeeeenceceeseaeeceeseneeesseeeeceeeaeeecsenneeeeseneeeseess B-2 
IWATACAT AS 555.5802 esc bette ot caceseuescareceaneis areeeea Sestewesnatnes se tavtaoensareerendaos eeuteornesestioneneseienens B-2 
Batch‘ files:::..2/.cscndacsstat Asset acie david acts saat neh Rattan anther eden B-2 
Default:directory Structure ss is.3 csvascceita shes eveadice nih acias cesiiwee sta ahve savas ceeiaa dresden dteeenies eee B-2 
Launching programse, :ssics.ccdaieseaccatcaiceateackecarsathc canoe canaanteessadengsusasuuecusaginesuaconaeecs B-2 
Memory resident programs ............sccessccceseeceseecsseecsseecsseecesseeesaeecseecseeseseeeesaeeesaeers B-3 
Alphabetical MH Stti os so: csc sees song stig gst neyo e8h soho vad ould, saebs caw ase enue otete led stot ecupscebenegedageeueacehetees B-3 
Append directories to current data path (APPEND; MS-DOS)...........:eeseeeseeeeseeeeee B-3 
Set or clear file attributes (ATTRIB { UTE})...........eececcccceeesncceeeseeeeeeeseeeeeseeeeeeeeees B-3 
Set time to auto-switch-off (AUTO; HC)............ccccccccccccssssssseceeeeeeeseessseeseeeeeeeeeeseesaaes B-4 
Set backlight time-out (BACKLIGHT; HC)............ececccceesscceeesneeeeeeseeeeceeneeeeeseneeeess B-4 
Backup files (BACKUP; MS-DOS) ...........cc:ccceeeesseceeseceeeeeeaeeeeeseneeecneneeeecssaeeeeesneeeess B-4 
Start battery check program (BATCHK; HO)..........:cesceeseessseeceseeeesseeeseesseeeeseeensaes B-4 
Specify battery type (BATTERY; HC) ..0.... eee eeeeseecssseecsseessseeceseeeesaeecsaeessaeeesseeensaes B-5 
Control extended CTRL-C checking (BREAK; MS-DOS) ............ccccceeesceeeeeteeeeeeeees B-5 
Run the calculator application (CALC)..........ceeessecceseecesneesseecscecsseeeeseesesaeesseseeeees B-5 
Call a batch file from inside another batch file (CALL) .............cccccccccccceesssstteeeeeeeeees B-5 
Display or alter current directory (CD) ........ eee ceesecesseeceseeeeseecseeceeeeesaeeesseessseeensaes B-6 
Display or change character set (CHCP; MS-DOS)..........eeeseeeseeeeseeeeseeeeseeeeseeeesaes B-6 
Display or alter current directory (CHDIR)............ceeccesssessseessseeceseeeesaeeesaeecseeenenaes B-6 
Check or fix disk (CHKDSK; MS-DOS )...........:cccccccccsssssceceeeceessesneeeeeeeessessseeeeeeeeeees B-7 
Prompt user for choice (CHOICE; MS-DOS )...........:c:cccecseseeeceeeneeeceeneeeeessneeeeeeeeeeess B-7 
Change directory (CUS), isc sciee det ots ps suc oes otek sith osteo tateses dcethdensiteh tee ath tntuebeebecbadegents exh B-7 
Start another command processor instance (COMMAND; MS-DOS) .............::::eee B-7 
Run the communications application (COMMS) ..........eeceeeseesseeceseecsseeeeseeeesaeeesaeers B-8 
Compare two files (COMP; MS-DOS)............ccccceessseceeeseeeeeseaeeecesnneeesseeeeeesnaeeeeseanees B-8 
Set language file (CONFIG; HC)... eeceesscssseecsseeeeseecesaeeesaeecsaeecseeesseeessaeessaeers B-8 
Copy file(s) (COPY )ssistcassdeatcesiecatccsedsatccsedsetecsudsetedevdeadedevicae ceescndedevdcdegdevecebeuenceds oes B-8 
Set country (COUNTRY; MS-DOS) .........eeeeeeecccceceeeesssneeeeeeecesessnnneeeeceeeeeeesnaneeeeeeeeees B-9 
Change terminal device (CTTY; MS-DOS) ...0.......cccccesescceessneeeceeeneeeeesnneeeeenneeesteaaees B-9 
Brief directory listing (D; HC)... eee eeeeeeseeesseeceneeceseeceseeeesaecesaeecsaeecseesseeesseeessaes B-9 
Run the database application (DATA) ..........ceeseeeseeceseeceseeeeseeeesaeeceaeessaeesseeesseeeesaes B-9 
Display date [and time] (DATE)..............::ccceesecceeseneeeceeneeeeeseaeeeceseneeecseaeeeeeeeaeeesseanees B-10 
Compress a disk (DBLSPACE; MS-DOS) ..0.......cccccecescceeesnececeeeneeeceeneeeeseeneeeeesneeeees B-10 
Start the debug program (DEBUG; MS-DOS) ......... eee eeseeeeseeceseeeesseeeseesseeeeneeeesaee B-11 
Optimise files on a disk (DEFRAG; MS-DOS) ...........:c::cccesesseceeeeeeeeeeneeeeeeeeeeeeenees B-11 
Delete file(S):(DEL[E TE), :.2 eess6et at, tatewesigit sae pass cottons Mite Gis on dat ee eat ees B-11 
Delete a directory, subdirectories and files (DELTREE; MS-DOS) .............: eee B-12 
List devices (DEVICE; HC).............::::ccccccssssssnsscccesesssnsnssseccesssssnsesseeeeesssensnsseeeeseeess B-12 
Full directory listing (DIR) ...........ccccceeseccceesenceeceeneeeeeseneeeceenaeeecesaeeeeessaeeecesneeeesseeeeess B-12 
Compare two floppy disks (DISKCOMP; MS-DOS) .........eesceseseeseseessseeeeseeeesneeseaeers B-13 
Copy a floppy disk (DISKCOPY; MS-DOS) ..........ceeeeseceseeceeseeceneecseeceseeeesaeeesaeers B-13 
Load/start DOSKEY program (DOSKEY; MS-DOS) ......... cc eeceeeseeeseeeeneeeeseeeeseeeesaes B-13 
Load DOSSHELL graphical interface (DOSSHELL; MS-DOS)...........eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee B-13 
Display message, set or display echo mode (ECHO) ...........eeseeseessseecsseeeeseeeeseeeesaee B-14 
Run ‘file-editor (EDIT) 2k sesveccccsnthn asic. cen esos oas cadet as edaet eaeehe Seeds abot teevetives B-14 
Enable expanded memory (EMM386; MS-DOS)...........sccesseesseeceseeceseeceseeeesaeeesaeers B-14 
Display or set environment variable (ENV; HC)...........cceseceessecesseecsneeesneeseneeeeseeeesaee B-14 
Delete file(s)\(ERASE) <csca rs. 38s: 28 et Soot es etal et ist oie tsa cote ce Biot eat Bietee teats B-15 
Display error level (ERRLEVEL) ...........ccceeseesseesseesssceceseeeesaecesaeecsaeessaeesseeessaeeesaes B-15 
Error level value (ERRORLEVEL ).............cccccccccccccccceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees B-15 
Exit level: EXIT) scvoia. cae tees cbeaindesdeeece baci base dees ba nba eho ea EA eee B-16 
Expand a compressed file (EXPAND; MS-DOS).........eeceeeceeeseeceseeseseeseseeeesaeeesaeers B-16 
Get summary Help on command syntax (FASTHELP; MS-DOS) ........ eee eeeeeeeeeeee B-16 
Start FASTOPEN program (DOSKEY; MS-DOS)... eee eeseeceesseeeseeseeeeeeseeeees B-17 
Compare two files (FC; MS-DOS )...........cccccceesssceeeeneeeceeeaeeceeeseeeeeesnaeeeeesnneeeeseeeeess B-17 
Specify number of file control blocks (FCBS; MS-DOS )..........eeeceeeseeeeseeeeneeeeneeeeeaes B-17 
Partition a hard disk (FDISK; MS-DOS) .0........cecceccccccccccessessseeeeeeeeeseesseeeeeeeesseeeaaes B-17 
List open files/Specify number of files accessible (FILES) .0.......eeeceeseeeeseeseseeeeneeeeee B-18 
Find a text string in a file or files (FIND; MS-DOS)............cececccceceseeceeeeeeeeeeetneeeeeees B-18 
Run a command for the files in a set (FOR)............cccccccccccccceeessessneeeeeeeesssessteeeeeeesenes B-18 
Format device (FORMAT) ..........ccccssssccccccessessseeeeeceeessesnsceeeececesesseeeeeeecessessaeeeeeeeeenes B-18 
Display free memory (FREE; HC) ..............s:ceseseesseessonesssnevenseneneeeonseesnonessesersosenenees B-19 


INDEX 


Jump to label in batch file (GOTO) ......... cece eeeeecceeseceeseceeeeesaeeecesneeeeessaeeeseeeeeenaees B-19 
Load program to allow printing of colour screen (GRAPHICS; MS-DOS)................ B-19 
List commands or get help CHELP)............eeeeeceseceseeceseeceseeeesseecseecseeeeseeeesaeessaeers B-19 
Run command conditionally (IF) ..........:.cccecesccceesscceeeeeneeeeeeeeeeecesneeeeeeeaeeeeesneeeeeseneeeess B-20 
Install memory resident program (INSTALL; MS-DOS) .........eec ce eeeeeeseeeeneeeeneeeeeeeee B-20 
Connect two computers to share resources INTERLNK; MS-DOS)... eee B-20 
Start the Interlink server INTERSVR; MS-DOS) ..........::cccccccccccessssssteeeeeeeesssssteeeeees B-20 
Configure keyboard for language (KEYB; MS-DOS )...........eesceesecessneeeeneeeeneeseeeee B-21 
Kall: aiprocess: MLE) ive cceics cece tie ceacitat ceeck he soe sa tet oe aie al vast ons sa cede detec dentate doueeoaetady B-21 
Add/alter disk volume label (LABEL) ..............cccscccccccceesessneeeeeeeeeesessseeeeeeceessessaeeeees B-21 
List device drivers (LDEV; HC) ..........cccccccsssscccceccesssssseceececeessesseeeeeeeeseseessaeeeeeeeenes B-21 
Load program into upper memory (LH; MS-DOS).......... ees eeseeeeseeceeeeeseeseneeseeeeee B-22 
List logical device drivers (LLDEV)..........:..cccscccceseeeceeeeneeeceenaeeeceenneeeeseeeeeeseeeeeeees B-22 
Load and run program above first 64K block (LOADFIX; MS-DOS) ....... cee eeeeeeee B-22 
Load program into upper memory (LOADHIGH; MS-DOS)......... ce eeeeeeseeeneeeeneeeeee B-22 
Configure low battery warnings (LOWBAT; HC)..........ceseeeseeceseeeesseeceneersneeesseeensaes B-23 
List physical device drivers (LPDEV)...........scccesscesssecsscecsseeecesseecseessseecssaeeesaeessaeers B-23 
List: processes: zLPROC) <0. scsicceescancces ccaeceescedacedvccdaceavedda veaucdaeecancddaevatccdvevanceseveatccaeneas B-23 
List segments (LSEG): scicccedccdeccastsceasesssceccdghsvesauehatvacdessuusedasedupedeceuspacesodseedecvusticenanne B-23 
Display time/date of mastering (MASTER; HC)..........cceeeeeeseceereeceneecsseeseneeesseeeesaes B-24 
Make directory-(MD). i cccciset gece. cit cee g5t sea cette nei sea ca dea tun ances ealaen cutee cusestacdceenies onsedtee B-24 
Display free memory (MEM)............:s:ccceeescceeeeseeceesececeeseaeeceecessneeecseneeeesseaeeeeeseaeeeees B-24 
Optimise computer's memory (MEMMAKER; MS-DOS )...........:eeseeeseeseseeeeneeeeeeees B-24 
Set startup menu colours (MENUCOLOR; MS-DOS)... eeeeeeeeeeceeeeeeesnneeeeeeeeeees B-25 
Set startup menu item and timeout (MENUDEFAULT; (MS-DOS)............ eee B-25 
Define startup menu item (MENUITEM; MS-DOS)............cecccccessseceeeeteeeesteeeeeenees B-25 
Make directory (MKDIR) ..........cccccccccsesccceeeeeeeeseneeecesceeecseaeecceseeecseaeeeeseaeeesensaeeneaees B-25 
Configure system devices (MODE; MS-DOS) ..........eeeeeceseeceseeeeseeeeaeeseaeeseneeeneeeees B-26 
Display output one screenful at a time (MORE; MS-DOS) ....... eee eeeeceeeeeeeeneeeeeeeeee B-26 
Move file(s) (MOVE; MS-DOS)..........ceeeeeccesseecsseessneecseeceeecsseeeesaeecsaeessaeeseseseseeeses B-26 
Scan for viruses (MSAV; MS-DOS) ...........cccecsssccccessesseceeeeeeesssssseeeeessssneeeeeeeeeeseeenaee B-26 
Run backup program (MSBACKUP; MS-DOS)......... ce sceessesesceeeseeeeeeeeesseeesseeseneeeee B-27 
Provide CD-ROM access (MSCDEX; MS-DOS) .........c::cccccccccssssssseeeeeeesssessseeeeeeeseees B-27 
Provide technical details (MSD; MS-DOS )............:cccccccccsssssceeeeeessessseeeeecesssesseeeeees B-27 
Load country-specific information (NLSFUNC; MS-DOS) ...........ceseesseeeeseeeeeeeeeeee B-27 
Control whether the Notifier appears (NOTIFY; HC)... cee eeeeceeeseesseeceseeeeseeeesaee B-27 
Start with Num Lock on/off (NUMLOCK; MS-DOS )...........cccccssscceceeesssssseeeeeeeenes B-28 
Enable off-key handling (OFFENABLE; HC).......... cece eeseeeesceceseeceeeeceeessneeesseeeesaes B-28 
Specify search path for executable files (PATH; MS-DOS ).......... ee eeeeeeseeeeseeeeeeeeeeees B-28 
Suspend batch file processing (PAUSE )...........esceessessseeceseeceseeeesseeesseecsseecseeseseeeesaes B-28 
Power saving set/display/on/off (POWER; MS-DOS) .........eeeeeeeeeseeeeneeseneeteneeeeeeaee B-29 
Print text file in background (PRINT; MS-DOS) ............cceccesescceeseneeeeeeneeeeestseeetennees B-29 
Change command prompt (PROMPT; MS-DOS) .........ceeeeseeceseeceeseeseeesseeseneeeesaes B-29 
Run QBasic language (QBASIC; MS-DOS) ..........:ccccceeesseeceeeneeeeeeeneeeeeseeeeeeeeneeeeeeees B-29 
Exit current batch file only (QUIT)...........ccccscccesseceeeseneeeeesnneeeeseeeeeessaeeecesneeeeeseneeeess B-29 
Remove directory (RD))..c..scccccesccseccesecaaceeecchaceevecdacesveddaconucceaceuuccseecsnccssevanccaeevancesesens B-30 
Get the cause of the last system shutdown (REASON )...........:::cccccceeeseeeeceeeeneeeeeenees B-30 
Comment (remark) in batch file (REM).............ccccccccccccesesssecceeeeeessessneeeeeeeeessesseeeeees B-30 
Rename: file(s): GREN) sec scccteedoee shiek oh Gh cel EER AN RAL A it ee Re B-30 
Replace file(s) (REPLACE; MS-DOS )..........eecceeeseesseeeeseessseeceseeeesaeecsaeesseessseeensaes B-31 
Restore file(s) (RESTORE; MS-DOS) .0..........ccccesccscccccesssssncceeceeessesseeeeeeceessessaeeeees B-31 
Resume a suspended process (RESUME; HC) .........ceeseeesceesseeceseeeeseessseessneeseseeeesaes B-31 
Remove directory (RMDIR)............:c:ccccesssceeeeenceeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeceseeeeeseaeeeceeeaeeeeseneeeeeeees B-31 
Analyse/repair disk(s) (SCANDISK; MS-DOS)............:cc:ccceeeseeeeeeeeeeeeesseeeeesneeeeeeees B-31 
Set default path/environment variables (SET)............c::ccccsssceceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeneeeeeseneeeees B-32 
Set date and time (SETDATE; HC) ...........eccccecccccccccsssssssecceeceeessesseeeeeeecessessneeeeeeeeeees B-32 
Alter system settings (SETDEF) 0.0.0.0... eesessseeceseeceseecscecssceceseeeesseessaeesseessseeeesaes B-32 
Report MS-DOS version or display/update version table (SETVER; MS-DOS)......... B-33 
Install file sharing and locking (SHARE; MS-DOS )...........eesceescessseeceseeeeseeeeseeeesaes B-33 
Specify command interpreter (SHELL; MS-DOS) ....... cee eeeeeeseceseessseeeeeeeeeseeessneers B-33 
Shift batch file parameters (SHIPFT).............::cccessccccesseeceeseneeeceseeeceeeneeeesesneeeeeeneeeess B-33 
Setup/configure disk cache/buffering (SMARTDRV; MS-DOS) ....... eee eeeeeeeeeeeeee B-34 
Read, sort and write data (SORT; MS-DOS)............ccccccccssssssccceeeesssssseeeeeeeeessessneeeeees B-34 
Start a process asynchronously (START)... eee eesecceesseeeceesseeeeeseeeeeeseeeseeseeeees B-34 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Stop aiprocess:(S: TOR) se cwscnsdeicea teivaecteaetestegevtesesstaesucabudeaeseeubesnduvisiventneeyngevegeeene B-34 
Specify startup menu item as a submenu (SUBMENU; MS-DOS)...........eeeeeeeeeeeeeee B-35 
Associate path with drive letter (SUBST; MS-DOS) ............eeeecccesesseeeeeeteeeeeeteeeeeeees B-35 
Suspend a process (SUSPEND; HC) ..............:esseesseesseesseesseeresereseeeereseesereseresenesenes B-35 
Make a startup disk (SYS; MS-DOS) .0.........ceeeecccceeseeeeeesneeeeeeeneeecesneeeeenseeeeeseaseeees B-35 
Terminate a process (TERMINATE; HC).............ccccccesssscceeseneeeeeeeneeeeeeeeeeeseseeeesnnees B-35 
Display/(set) time (TIME) ............::ccceeseccceeseeeeceeneececenseeeeeenneeecseneeeeeeeaeeeessneeeeeseneeees B-36 
Display directory graphically (TREE; MS-DOS) ...........eeeeeeeeeeeneeeeseeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee B-36 
Typed text file (PYRE) s. cvesccisgevesensceeesuta Sovbdedsteesdultdees dts Sees cus sduke teadbvbe cadedveedeaPauneded st B-36 
Restore deleted files (UNDELETE; MS-DOS)............ccccccccccessssceeceeeessesseeeeeeeeeeeeeenaes B-36 
Restore a formatted disk (UNFORMAT; MS-DOS) ..........cccccsccccccceessessteeeeeeeeseeeneee B-37 
Display software version numbers (VERSION )............c:ceescceseseeeeseeceneeseteeseseeeeseeeesaee B-37 
Turn disk write verification on/off (WERIFY; MS-DOS).............c::ccccccccssssssseeeeeeeeeees B-37 
Display the disk volume label etc (VOL) ........ceseeseceeseeceseeeesseeesneeceaeecsacesseeessaeeesaes B-37 
Continuously check for viruses (VSAFE; MS-DOS) ...........:c:ccceeeeeseeeeeseeeeeeeneeeeseenees B-38 
Wait for a process to complete (WAIT)..........:cecccceesseeeeeeeneeeceenceeeeeeaeeeeestaseceesneeeeeteas B-38 
Configure Notifier appearance (WNOTIFY3 HC)..........:ceeeceeesceseeeesseeseneeesseeesseeeesaee B-38 
Copy directories, subdirectories and files COPY; MS-DOS) ou... eee eeeeeeseeeteeeeee B-38 


Appendix C - Differences between the Series 3a System Screen and the Workabout System Screen 


and Command Processor Memus ..............sccsssccsssscsssscsssecsssscscsssssssscsssscsssscssssssssssessssessssssssessones C-1 
Ti CR OGUCHOM es 7 55 23 Ak as Se Ses oP5 Fiks REGS Se Me se 5 Paes FEE Be Se seh Seu FANS Be So sev Saks SORT D Sa sesh ekg Sets Sedan ee ee C-1 
About this:appendix:::..:sc2isevetis sac seugaiieeaseansgcyseaiiestasmsgeaneaiiosiosetesycendeeteoeatesieasians C-1 
Hotkeysiseis2ticsiceevcagteivise yen ee Ga eho ee Ry canes oie ei Reali eed nee eee ee C-2 
Psion-A, Assign button/Set auto switch off times ......... ee eeeeesseecsseeseseeeeseeeesaeeseneees C-2 
Psion-B/Shift-Ctrl-B, Battery info... eeeesseecssneeeeseecseeceeeceseeeesaeeesaeessaeesseeseee C-2 
Shift=Psion-D; Dialling. sess. hot ieee ake tees ts anes Me tawtces Dabeto ds toetees atch ede tetees Gist ethe nates C-2 
Shift-Psion-E, Evaluate format ...........cccccccccccccccccccccccccccecececeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees C-2 
Psion-F, Format disk/Time and date format..............ccccccccccccccccceeceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees C-2 
Shift-Psion-F, Number formats/Time and date format.............ccccsscccccccessssssseeeeeeeeeees C-3 
Psion-G;:Creaté ew SOUP ir. iss nahh et adit ear en ites bint oue Had ebsites C-3 
Psion-K, Disc info/Toggle keyboard .0..........ceeseeessecesneeceneecsseeceseeeesseecsaeesseeesseeeesaes C-3 
Shift-Psion-N, Give 'Normal' system SCreen...........s:ccsescesscessseeceseeeesseecsseessaeessneeeesaes C-3 
Shift-Psion-M, Give 'Memory’ system SCreen) ..........esecesseccssseeesseecsseecsseeceseeeesaeeesaeers C-3 
Psion-O,:Auto:Switchi: OFF 92.2. cecob eit atte alt otvtuctees aetesta enced omectut eneslccecte C-3 
Psion-P, Set owner information ...........cccccccccccessssssecceeeeeessesseeeeeeeeeseeeeeeeseeeeeeeeeseeenaes C-4 
Psion=S;Setthe sound... sc2.09.c0tc ed. dezesiuidewecds saesivuvauneedasodueids voduesduvodecessveetusodusesceets C-4 
Time:Psion-S/Shift-Psion-S, Set summer time ................:0:ccseeeeeseeseeeeeseesssssssssensneenees C-4 
Psion-T, Set file attributes/Set time and date... ccccescccccccccesesssneceeeceeessesseeeeees C-4 
Psion-U, Usage monitor/Update lists ........ eee eeeeeeesseeeeneeceeeceeeceseeeesaeeesaeessaeesseesens C-4 
Psion-V, About Series 3a/Versions .........ccccccccecsssssccecccesssesneeeeeeeessesseeeesecesssesseeeeees C-4 
Shift-Psion-V, About application ......... ee ceeseeesecsseecsseecsseeessseeesaeecsaeecseessneeeeseeeesaes C-5 
Psion-W, Password/Toggle Wrap ..........ssccssscccsseeceseeeesseecseecsaceceseeessaeecsaeessaeessneeensaes C-5 
Psion=X¢ BxXi tics ocsescsssseescssussvendeaeecsivasaseis ses vesiet sabeas Sus osawasauedaa seeded et abevan Se eesieeweeete C-5 
PSion=¥j Printer fx. osce2e2lseresetes ores sd. conde vouceetudonteetu dbacsetlcottedeebeesMeoddeetiebecesteosueeskeeth C-5 
Psion-Space/Psion-Diamond, Caps lock on/off.......... cece eeeeeeeeeeeseeeeeeneeeeeeneeneees C-5 
Psion-Tab/Shift-Psion-Tab, Display full path in file-related dialogs... eee C-5 
Psion= ¥ Printer ceo cisrs.ceKieectsdesateless vesasis.voligessscalossauesleowss cases uesloowsouusesualoeseees C-6 
PSion=¥3 Printer v3 esccedetcoiissseeedivet gedivesusodieets souivadeovived. sotivadieodivedetouivbeueouivetesentvess C-6 
Psion... Printer :s.35.035.56s.bes3esevdoeodsiseediseviesodhivbes disevie. vidios disuvdesvdduvbesdiseveseuctovieeveds C-6 
Psion=¥., Printer 240030 atten tutes Ab hocetencn, Ab heated bho bbe taed abhetvids C-6 
S Witch taskessoidseiiec cei vevedesecded dedi tuvededu ces ceeds cus ecedueds coesuauandedseds veuge dvawcaane dean cevedesternucebes’ C-7 
IMIG TUS 3325S aecek oooh eth oes eet ch ee Ria eae ache elcid Rich va ted ree it oot 8s on Rls Sons C-7 
Pile@stienul.: «.seeastisvdcsstau cesta ies Aces Bids asides has ee oea de aaa: C-7 
DiSke A Gna 0c 3 sc sz ores Bias este ws os as Rad es eos in vest A eaters hen boven sh C-7 
ANPPSIMEMUs isssseesisscondssagcoigslaacedasaae case ssaoeebdsves sad sheets laaves sans sauecuadoane sans chbadesuense satesaseaes C-7 
DGG 0¥5 0 0) 11 ease ern Pee ee oe C-8 
Gomtrol mien 5:5 .08,.siscsees dicta ses cca seshssda dhs ssdbaseasacdasasas ibavaaisddasesceduaseadacdersseecuauessacaedee C-8 
Special MEM Ws sis cogs esses iets vex ces sci bodeh leven cosh besten teks ays Sosa Shay toss desta ates Sesictbsensiee ss C-10 
DlaMONnd) MENU s...2.45 ssentacicdstes aesatetedeles was ate ede eaee ne hod Ga ee ea C-11 
A RAT nes qs 01D Uepenenge ese eee OR OO a Pe C-11 


CHAPTER 1 


INTRODUCTION TO THE WORKABOUT 


The Workabout has been designed to be integrated into any computer system and to meet any application 
requirement: assisting with the making of deliveries, taking of orders, collecting or distributing 
information, servicing equipment, and so on. 


Every element of the hardware is configurable, from the plug-in megabyte-sized Solid State Disks, to the 
internal expansion slot for peripheral devices such as a serial port expansion card. 


Equally important is the multi-tasking operating system with full graphics and windowing capability. 
Applications can make productive use of the various fonts and emphases available, and can even display 
and manipulate diagrams, maps, and pictures. The result: software applications that are highly 
informative and intuitive to use, and which consequently improve operator acceptance and efficiency. 


The multi-tasking facilities - unique to the Psion ranges of handheld and pocket computers - significantly 
shorten software development times and greatly simplify otherwise complex issues ranging from the 
simultaneous monitoring of several peripherals through to sophisticated process control applications. 


Additionally the Workabout has built-in programming tools for easy application development. These 
include both a Command Processor and a graphic user interface (the System Screen), a sophisticated 
program editor and translator, and communications software. 


Switching on and off 


The Workabout can be switched on by means of the yellow On/Esc key, or off by means of the light grey 
Off key near the top left corner of its front face. 


There is no need to "exit" programs before switching the Workabout off. When the Workabout is next 
switched on, all current programs continue from their previous state. The contents of the internal RAM 
memory is preserved throughout the period of being switched off, without any significant current being 
drawn in the meantime. 


Switching on for the first time 


Note that when a Workabout is switched on for the first time (or following a reset), it will go into the 
Startup Shell. This will normally run any autoexec file that is found on a Startup SSD that is found on any 
local drive. If such a file is not found, the Startup Shell displays the Psion logo with a copyright message, 
followed by a startup message, as in the following illustration: 


To select a system interface for development purposes, just press the Menu key. The Startup Shell's 
Special menu is then displayed. 


Insert Startup (autoexec) SSD and press Enter 
or press Menu for System Interface 


1-1 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


The Special menu presents three options: 


e Selecting the Command processor option starts the Command Processor. The Workabout in due 
course presents an m> prompt to indicate that its Command Processor is ready to receive commands, 
and that the current drive is M: (internal). See the Workabout Command Processor chapter for 
further details 


e Selecting the System screen option starts the System Screen, displaying a set of icons that represent 
the built-in example PIM applications. The description of the use of these applications is beyond the 
scope of this manual. For information on how to create applications that run from the System Screen, 
see the Programming the Workabout chapter (which relies on information contained in the 
Series 3/3a Programming Guide). 


e Selecting the Restart shell option runs the Startup Shell again. The machine then repeats the 
sequence of operations described above. This is only of use if you want to run a customised Startup 
Shell. 


Startup SSD 


A Startup SSD must contain a file with the file name autoexec. This may be a batch file, with a file name 
extension of .btf, or it may be an executable program file with a file name extension of .img, .app, .opo or 
.opa. If this is what is required, and you have a Startup SSD to hand, (it is not provided by Psion), insert 
the Startup SSD and press Enter as instructed. 


If you have copied an autoexec file to M: this will be run on startup, without displaying the startup 
message described earlier. 


The basic hardware 


The Workabout is a member of the SIBO family of machines. This architecture is designed to minimise 
the size, weight and power consumption of the computer. In relation to the Workabout, the key 
components of the architecture are: 


e A sophisticated power management system that selectively powers subsystems under software 
control. 


e Solid State Disks (SSDs) that provide fast low-power silicon-based mass storage with no moving 
parts. 


e Asynchronous serial interface for Psion peripherals running at high speed, and for 
communications at 19,200 Baud. 


e A 16 bit NEC V30H processor, (essentially compatible with 8086 class). 


e Hardware protection of the system from aberrant processes (address trapping of out-of-range 
writes and a watch-dog timer on interrupts being disabled). 


e = Real-time clock. 
e ROM-resident system software. 
¢ Graphics LCD display. 


See the Introduction chapter of the PLIB Reference manual for further information about SIBO computers 
and the EPOC operating system that they all use. 


All aspects of the hardware of the Workabout have been designed with the following goals in mind: 
e Portability. 
e Robustness. 
e Splashproof. 
e Data security. 
e Ease of use. 
e =©Adaptability. 
e Long battery life. 


e Standards compliance. 


1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORKABOUT 


Processor 


The Workabout uses an industry standard 80C86-compatible 16-bit processor, the NEC V30H, running at 
a clock rate of 7.68MHz. 


The Workabout also contains a number of proprietary custom chips called ASICs, which are responsible 
for many of its more exclusive features. The principal ASIC chips are described in more detail in the 
Hardware Reference manual. 


Internal memory 


The amount of internal RAM memory on a Workabout varies from model to model. There are two basic 
models, with either 256KB or 1MB. 


All models have 1MB internal masked ROM. 
Solid state disks (SSDs) 


The standard Workabout has two solid state disk drives, which are the equivalent of disk drives on a PC. 
To access them, open the top cover by pressing down the catch to the left side of the Workabout's screen. 
The drawer then slides out of the machine. SSDs can be inserted into the disk drives in the top right and 
the bottom right of the drawer. 


SSD/Battery drawer eject 
button 


SSD/Battery drawer 


SSD in drive B: 


SSD in drive A: 


SSDs should be inserted with their upper faces (displaying large writing) uppermost. If you try to insert 
them upside down, by accident, you will find they don't fit properly into their slots - so there is no risk of 
any untoward damage, (unless you try to force them). 


The SSD drive at the top of the Workabout drawer is drive A:, and that at the bottom is drive B:. 
See the SIBO Computers Programmers Reference manual for further details regarding SSDs. 


Expansion slots 


There is an expansion slot inside the bottom end of the Workabout. This can contain a wide variety of 
interface devices. Possibilities include: 

e RS232/RS232 TTL serial interface. 

e RS232/Barcode reader interface (for a wand or CCD/Laser scanner). 


Sockets for the ports of these modules, (where fitted), are mounted as standard at the top end of the 
machine, above the screen . One socket may optionally be located on the left of the bottom end of the 
casing, below the keyboard. 


These are factory fitted options, and it is not possible for the expansion module or port sockets to be 
exchanged "in the field". Retro-fitting of expansion modules and sockets is possible, however. Contact 
Psion for further details. 


For further details of these modules refer to the Technical Specifications appendix of this manual. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


Communications ports 


On the Workabout, the port names (e.g. TTY:A) depend on both the position that the port is located on 
the machine and the way that the port is being used (e.g. RS232 or TTL): 


Bouomneny—C | sd Cd 
Tope [| SSC Cd CCS 
[Bottom eRTopriaht [A | | |__| 
Note: future hardware options may be available with different port assignments and positions. 
The Holster 


A plastic holster is available for storing the Workabout when it is not being used. It can be mounted on 
any convenient vertical surface. 


The holster incorporates positive latching to ensure that the Workabout is held reliably. A hand recess 
guarantees easy insertion and removal. It may be mounted in any suitable position. 


The Workabout Docking Station may also be fitted with the holster and the LIF Converter, (this 
combination is also known as a cradle). 


The Workabout Docking Station (Cradle) 
The Psion Workabout Docking Station (Cradle) has been designed to satisfy requirements for: 
e Secure mounting for the Workabout. 
e "Hands-free" operation. 
e Battery recharge. 
e¢ Mounting an additional Psion HC type expansion module, such as a printer or modem. 
The holster on the Workabout Docking Station (where fitted) is as described above. 


A separate battery pack slot is provided to allow a stand-alone battery pack to be recharged. The 
Workabout Docking Station also supports a fast recharge facility for the Workabout rechargeable battery 
pack in the charger slot. 


There is a LIF Converter on the Docking Station Cradle, for data exchange and external power to the 

Workabout. It is designed to be connected directly to a Workabout. The high reliability contacts of the 
LIF connector automatically engage when the Workabout is placed in the Docking Station cradle - no 
user-made connections are required. Alternatively an external power only LIF plug on a flying lead is 
supplied with the holsterless version of the Docking Station. 


Data may be exchanged at up to 19,200 Baud. 
Power supply 


The Workabout can be powered using a rechargeable nickel-cadmium battery pack, standard AA 
batteries, or an optional mains adapter. 


The Workabout will not switch on if there is no power source, or if the batteries are too low. Power is 
needed to operate the Workabout and to maintain the data stored in internal memory. The storage of data 
on SSDs, however, does not rely on the main power source. 


Connect this end to 


LIF converter Workabout LIF socket 


3Link lead connector 


At the bottom of the machine to the right, below the keyboard, is a socket for a LIF converter. To power 
the Workabout from a mains supply, plug the cable from the mains adapter into the LIF converter and 
then plug the LIF converter into this socket. The green power indicator light (near the Del key) will come 
on. This light indicates that the Workabout is being powered by an external source - even if the 
Workabout itself is not switched on. 


1-4 


1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORKABOUT 


The Workabout is also supplied with a small round lithium battery. This is the backup battery. It is 
essential because it keeps the internal memory secure in the absence of the main power source, for 
example, while the main batteries are being changed. It should be fitted before the main batteries, but note 
that the Workabout can not be run using only the backup battery. 


To see where to fit the backup battery, release the drawer at the top of the Workabout by pressing down 
the drawer eject button to the left of the screen (as for SSDs) until it clicks. Pull out the drawer to reveal 
the backup battery cover in the top of the drawer, towards the left hand side. 


The backup battery should last for approximately one year, provided the Workabout does not spend long 
periods with no other power supply. It is recommended that a new backup battery is fitted yearly. If the 
Workabout is left powered only by the backup battery, the battery will preserve the internal memory for 
approximately five days. 


To fit a new backup battery, slide back the backup battery cover and remove the old battery. Insert the new 
battery so that the positive side of the battery faces left (towards the outer edge of the drawer). Slide back 
the backup battery cover. 


The main batteries are also stored in the drawer of the Workabout, next to the two SSD drives. The main 
battery recess may contain a rechargeable battery cartridge pack. Do not attempt to disassemble a 
rechargeable battery pack. 


Main batteries 


A new set of alkaline batteries should last for about 80 hours of continuous use. A fully recharged battery 
pack should last for between 30 and 35 hours. Using the backlight (where fitted), or attached peripherals, 
will increase power consumption considerably. If left unused, a battery pack will slowly lose its charge 
over a period of approximately six months. 


1-5 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


To remove the rechargeable battery pack or batteries, switch the machine off and release the drawer using 
the drawer eject button to the left of the screen (as for the backup battery), pull the drawer out until the 
main battery compartment is revealed, then push and lift any battery pack or AA batteries from the top of 
the drawer. To fit the rechargeable battery pack or batteries back into the Workabout, slide into place, (left 
end first). Ensure that good connections have been made between the battery terminals and the contacts 
inside the battery recess, and close the drawer. The machine can now be switched on. 


The nickel-cadmium batteries in the battery pack can be recharged in three ways: 

e Trickle recharge by a Workabout Mains Adaptor (via a LIF converter). 

e = Trickle recharge by a Workabout Docking Station. 

e Fast recharge by a Workabout Docking Station, provided they are "fast charge" batteries. 
A second battery pack can be inserted in the Workabout Docking Station at the same time. 


The Workabout automatically displays a warning message, when switched on, if either the main or 
backup battery is low. Independently of this, there is a battery information dialog available from any 
application. This is accessed by pressing the Shift-Ctrl-B key combination. It displays the state of the main 
and backup batteries, and whether the batteries are alkaline or rechargeable, or whether an external power 
supply is being used. For correct information ensure that the drawer is securely closed. 


When the main battery is low, the Workabout may have enough power to display the screen and accept 
input from the keyboard, but not enough to write to Flash SSD or access expansion devices. The 
Workabout will turn off if an operation is attempted for which it does not have enough power. New 
batteries should be fitted, (or the existing batteries recharged), before the operation is tried again. 


In order to save power, the Workabout will, by default, switch itself off automatically, if left alone for five 
minutes. The "auto-switch-off" time can be changed to another value, if desired, or the Workabout set so 
that it does not auto-switch-off at all. 


The fuse 


The drawer of the Workabout contains a fuse (in the bottom of the battery compartment). This is to 
generally protect the circuitry of the machine if too much current is being drawn through the batteries. If 
the computer will not switch on, or has suddenly stopped working, it could be that a fault has caused the 
fuse to blow. It may be possible to see the melted wire inside the fuse through its glass tube. If the fuse has 
blown you should contact your Psion service centre. 


Note that, if the fuse blows, the backup battery will still preserve the memory of the machine. Furthermore 
the Workabout can still be powered from a mains adaptor via a LIF Converter. 


Caution regarding lithium batteries 


Note that there is a risk of explosion if lithium batteries are fitted incorrectly. Be sure that the backup 
battery is fitted so that the face of the battery containing the plus symbol is the one towards the outer edge 
of the machine. This is the flatter of the two faces. 


A Lithium battery should be replaced only with one of the same or equivalent type as the one supplied by 
Psion. Used lithium batteries should be disposed of according to the manufacturer's instructions. Always 
tape over the terminals before disposal. 


Screen 


The normal Workabout screen is a retardation film LCD, 62.4mm (2.45 inches) wide by 30mm 
(1.18 inches) high, displaying 240 pixels horizontally and 100 pixels vertically. The pixel dimensions 
are 0.27mm by 0.23mm, with a pitch of 0.30mm by 0.26mm. 


In the default (proportional) font, the screen displays seven lines, each with around 24 characters. If fewer 
characters are required to be displayed, a larger font can be used, to achieve a more striking screen image, 
(and vice versa). 


Changing the font is only one example of the graphics support supplied by the resident software. 


By default, the screen is illuminated by reflected light, using, (as throughout the Workabout), 
state-of-the-art technology. In case additional lighting is required, some variants (e.g. the 1MKB variant) 
are provided with a factory-fitted backlight. A backlight may also be retro-fitted to any model. This 
backlight can be switched on or off whenever the user requires, (bearing in mind that there is an 
inevitable additional drain on the batteries whenever the backlight is used). 


1-6 


1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORKABOUT 


512K 
RAM 


VAOOEAGE 


The switch for the backlight has a Sg symbol on it. In addition, the Workabout can be configured to 
switch off the backlight automatically once a given time period has elapsed. 


Screen contrast may be adjusted using the contrast key, which has a id symbol on it. Pressing this key on 
its own makes the background darker. Pressing Shift-Contrast makes the screen background lighter. In 
both cases the operation cycles round when the adjustment reaches the end of its range. 


Keyboard 


The keyboard features positive travel rubber keys with durable legends. 


Two keyboard layouts are available, depending on how the Workabout is to be used: 


e The standard full alphanumeric keyboard (57 keys). 


e The alphanumeric keyboard can be augmented with special characters used in Scandinavian and 
Western European countries. These characters can be printed on the key surround as a factory 
fitted option, (above and to the right of the relevant keys). The extra characters are accessed via 
the Psion modifier key once the "Special keyboard" has been selected. Note that the following 
diagram shows these characters, but that they are not present on the key surround of a standard 


machine. 


@QX@ED,; 


A) (6 MOGIG 
QaHNOOWM 
m) (N) 0) P) (@) @) 
1G JOW 
Ce) © © GBRGA 
( y _) (crt) (aes) workabout 


The following special keys are present: 


On/Esc 


Off 


Menu 


ce: (Backlight) Switches the backlight on and off, (where fitted). 


Switches the Workabout off. 


Switches the Workabout on, and functions as an Escape key, (used to clear a line of 
input or cancel an entry). 


The use of this is under application control, i.e. it is not used by any core system 
code. It may be acted upon by the foreground process, or by any process that captures 
the keypress including the Command Processor and System Screen. Used to bring up 
a set of menus. In the Startup Shell it brings up the Special menu that allows you to 
choose a system interface, or to restart the shell. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


d (Contrast) Controls the contrast of the LCD display. 


Del 


Enter 


¥ (Psion) 


Used to edit typing, and to delete items of various kinds, database records, for 
example. 


Terminates a line of input, exits a dialog, etc. 


An extra modifier key (analogous to Alt on a PC), recognisable by its familiar "cup 
and saucer" Psion logo. 


There are also several special keypress combinations: 


Shift-Esc 


Ctrl-Esc 


Psion-Tab 


Psion-Space 


Psion-Left 
Psion-Right 
Psion-Up 
Psion-Down 


Shift-Ctrl-B 


Buzzer 


The "Help" hotkey combination. The use of this is under application control, i.e. it is 
not used by any core system code. It may be acted upon by the foreground process, or 
by any process that captures the keypress including the Command Processor and 
System Screen. It is used to bring up a Help menu. It appears to any application 
exactly like the Help key on a Psion Series 3a. 


The "Help index" hotkey combination. It is used to bring up a Help index. It appears 
to any application exactly like the Ctrl-Help key combination on a Psion Series 3a. 


The "Task" hotkey combination. It allows switching between tasks. 


The "Caps lock" key combination. This is used to switch between normal and "Caps 
lock" modes. In normal operations lower case characters are the default, with upper 
case only when the Shift key is held down. In "Caps lock" mode, upper case 
characters are the default and lower case characters are obtained by holding down the 
Shift key. 


The "Home" key combination. The use of this is under application control. 

The "End" key combination. The use of this is under application control. 

The "Page Up" key combination. The use of this is under application control. 
The "Page Down" key combination. The use of this is under application control. 


The "Battery" hotkey combination. It displays battery information: main battery state 
and type, backup battery state and whether external power is present. It is available at 
all times regardless of what application is running, (it is implemented in the Startup 
Shell). Note: for correct information the drawer must be securely closed. 


The Workabout contains a piezo buzzer for beeps, key clicks, etc. 


The basic software 


The software running on a Workabout at any one time is a mixture of: 


e ROM resident core software (the "operating system"). 


e ROM resident utilities, such as the MS-DOS like Command Processor, OPL program editor and 
the LINK communications software. 


e ROM resident PIM application software, (the System Screen, database, calculator, spreadsheet 
and/or communications terminal emulator). 


e Application software, from an SSD or internal memory. 


e Library software, again from an SSD or internal memory. 


Versions of the Workabout software 


To see which version of ROM software is contained in any Workabout, enter ver at the > prompt in the 
Command Processor. The Workabout ROM version number is given, plus a separate version number for 
the EPOC operating system, and another one for the Workabout System Interface. 


1-8 


1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORKABOUT 


ROM components 


In addition to those files in the ROM that are common to all SIBO computers, there are several that are 
unique (or specifically adapted) to the Workabout. These include: 


sys$shll.img The Startup Shell, that displays the Psion logo when the machine is first 
switched on, or after a reset. It runs any autoexec file, and gives the battery 
information window. 


sys$cmdp.img The Command Processor, as described in detail in a separate chapter. 
sys$gsys.img The System Screen, as described in detail in a separate chapter. 
sys$ctry.cfo This file holds all the language-dependent text strings used by the 


operating system, as well as the standard keyboard layout information. It is 
used in preference to sys$ctry.int when you select the Standard keyboard 
option from the Command Processor's Control menu, or enter setdef /k0. 


sys$ctry.int This file holds all the language-dependent text strings used by the 
operating system, as well as the special keyboard layout information. It is 
used in preference to sys$ctry.cfo when you select the Special keyboard 
option from the Command Processor's Control menu, or enter setdef /k1. 


opl.dyl Provides the facilities needed to enable programs written in OPL to be run. 


oplts3.dyl Provides the facilities needed to enable Psion Series 3 type OPL programs 
to be run on the Workabout. 


The ROM also contains a number of built-in fonts (*,fon files). The Workabout fonts are identical to those 
used in the Series 3a and are described in the Text fonts section of the Introduction chapter of the Window 
Server Reference manual. 


To obtain a listing of all the files in the ROM, enter dir rom:: at the > prompt of the Command 
Processor. Note, however, that no file corresponding to EPOC itself appears in this listing. EPOC is the 
kernel of the operating system, and not a file in rom: :. 


Note: The ROM contains the file sys$soak.img. This is a soak test program that is intended for Psion use 
only. Since this program erases everything in memory, it should not be run. 


Command Processor 


This application is included in the ROM for the benefit of program developers. It provides a DOS-like 
command line interface. 


In addition to the familiar DOS commands there are several commands peculiar to the Workabout. Some 
provide information, such as usec. Others invoke features of the Workabout which are beyond the scope 
of DOS, such as start which runs processes asynchronously. 


This application can also run batch files. It is invoked transparently by the Startup Shell to run 
autoexec. btf if required. 


See the Workabout Command Processor chapter for further details. 


System Screen and PIM applications 


The System Screen application is included in the Workabout ROM as an example of a GUI application. It 
is very similar to the Series 3a System Screen. 


It provides much of the same functionality as the Command Processor, the major difference being that 
there is no batch file handling. 


Modified versions of the Series 3a personal information management (PIM) applications Data (database), 
Calc (calculator) and Comms (communications), and of the Series 3 Sheet (spreadsheet) are included by 
way of examples of the machine's potential. Most of the modifications concern the size of dialog boxes, in 
that a smaller dialog box font is used when the applications run on a Workabout. 


Details of the use of the System Screen and the PIM applications are beyond the scope of this SDK. An 
introduction to their use may be found in the Workabout User Guide that is available with Workabout 
machines. 


1-9 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


Resetting the Workabout 


It is rarely necessary to reset the Workabout. Even a serious bug in the application being developed is 
unlikely to cause the entire Workabout system to hang. For example, any illegal attempt by an application 
to write to data outside its own data segment will cause the operating system to terminate the application 
in a so-called panic. The same thing happens if an application leaves interrupts disabled for too long. In 
some instances of software failure, however, a reset may prove necessary. 


To avoid the possibility of losing any data used by an application, terminate all applications and save any 
important data to an SSD or a PC before performing a reset. 


Note: There are two holes at the top and bottom centre of the keyboard on the Workabout. Neither of these 
is for a recessed reset switch. 


Soft reset 


To perform a soft reset, press Psion-Ctrl-Del, (equivalent to Alt-Ctrl-Del on a PC, or pressing the reset 
switch on a Psion HC or Series 3/3a). You will hear a short warning buzz. The Workabout then turns off, 
abandoning all programs running at the time, without saving any data currently in use by them. The files 
in the internal memory (M:) will not be lost, however. 


Hard reset 


If, unusually, all the internal memory (including environment variables) is to be erased too, keep the Shift 
key held down while resetting the machine, i.e. press Psion-Shift-Ctrl-Del. You will hear a short warning 
buzz. This is known as a hard reset. It is essentially equivalent to using: 


e the reset switch on a PC 

e the reset switch with the ON/OFF key held down on a Psion HC 

e the reset switch with the ON/Esc key held down on a Series 3 

e the reset switch with the right-hand Shift key held down on a Series 3a. 


Cold reset 


If neither a soft nor a hard reset work, remove all power and wait a few minutes before restoring power. 
The machine must then be switched back on. You will hear a short warning buzz. This is called a cold 
reset and will, like a hard reset, also erase the contents of all internal memory. 


What happens after a reset 


Following a hard or soft reset, or the temporary removal of all power, the Workabout displays the Psion 
logo and startup message, as if switched on for the first time. 


Customising the Workabout 


This section describes some of the many ways a Workabout can be customised, to make it ideally suited to 
some particular set of needs. 


Hardware customisation 
A backlight for the screen may be retro-fitted to any model if required. 


Simple measures of hardware customisation include alterations to the labels and branding of the 
Workabout, changes to the colour scheme and new keyboard legends. The machine may also be fitted 
with a lockable battery/SSD drawer. More extensive hardware customisation, such as altering the 
keyboard layout, are possible. 


These measures of customisation are beyond the scope of this manual, which focuses instead on software 
customisation. Contact your distributor if you wish to investigate the possibilities of hardware 
customisation. 


1-10 


1 INTRODUCTION TO THE WORKABOUT 


Software customisation 


The Workabout is designed to facilitate software customisation. Although (unlike the HC) the contents of 
the ROM can not be reprogrammed, there are a number of ways in which the Workabout can run custom 
application software. These include: 


e supplying an autoexec file, 

e replacing the Startup Shell, 

e replacing the Command Processor, 

e replacing the System Screen, 

e adding further applications to those that run under the System Screen. 


Only the first of these techniques is recommended as a standard way of customising a Workabout. 
Nevertheless, the others are techniques that can be used if there is a particular reason for doing so. They 
are described in the Programming the Workabout chapter. 


Connecting to other computers 


This section describes standard serial connections between a Workabout and another computer, such as a 
PC or Apple Macintosh. The discussion is limited to describing connection to a PC, but similar 
considerations apply to connecting with other types of computer. 


Any connection between two computers involves a hardware connection and a software connection. 
Hardware connection 


Depending on the connectors fitted to the Workabout, a standard serial connection can be accomplished in 
either of two ways: 


e a standard serial cable connecting a Workabout RS232 socket (where fitted) to a serial port on 
the other computer. 


e a Psion 3Link serial cable connecting a Workabout, via a LIF converter, to a serial port on the 
other computer. 


Note: In order for the Workabout to recognise the presence or absence of the 3Link cable, the LIF 
Converter must be disconnected from the Workabout before attaching or removing the cable. 


Modern PCs have 9-pin sockets on serial ports; older ones have 25-pin sockets. It is common for PCs to 
have two serial ports, designated COM1 and COM2. If you only have one serial port on your PC, it will be 
COMI. 


Some Psion communications software running on the PC recognises other serial port designations, such as 
COMS3 or COM4. However, to ensure that communications will work in all cases, you should ideally 
connect the PC end of the cable to COM1 or, if that port is not available, to COM2. 


In either case the Workabout could be connected to the other computer via a modem and a suitable 
telephone line connection. The Psion 3Link serial cable is supplied with all the necessary software, and 
the accompanying documentation explains its use. 


A Workabout connected to a modem may be used with the Psion 3Fax SSD software (but note that the 
Workabout is not compatible with the Psion 3Fax modem). 


Software connection 
Communications software must be running on both machines that are connected via a serial cable. 


The Workabout contains Link software that, in addition to allowing the transfer of serial data, provides 
access to the filing system of the attached PC, provided that is also running suitable communications 
software. The Link software can be started on the Workabout either by use of the Command Processor's 
link command, or by selecting the Remote link option of the System Screen's Special menu. The Link 
software is described in the NCP and Link chapter of the I/O Devices Reference manual. 


The software on the PC should be Mclink, RCom (Remote Communications), or any other 
communications software intended for communicating with a Psion computer. The Mclink software is 
supplied with this SDK and is described in the Mclink, Mcprint and Slink chapter of the Additional 
System Information manual. RCom (Remote Communications) software is supplied with the Psion 3Link 
cable and is described in the accompanying documentation. 


CHAPTER 2 


WRITING SOFTWARE FOR THE WORKABOUT 


At the time of writing, either of two high level languages - C or OPL - may be used to develop application 
software for the Workabout, although further languages are likely to appear in the future. 


The use of OPL is described in the OPL Software Development Kit: this manual, not unnaturally, 
concentrates on development in C. 


Basic programming choices 
Standard C (CLIB) or Psion C (PLIB) 


As with all SIBO machines, a significant proportion of C code that has already written for other target 
computers can be transferred almost straightaway to run on a Workabout. The availability of the CLIB 
standard C library means that all that is required is to recompile and re-link the code. 


To take a very simple example, the program simple.c 
#include <stdio.h> 


int main (void) 
{ 
puts ("Hello world"); 
getchar(); 
return (0); 


} 
together with a project file simple.pr 


#system epoc img 
#model small jpi 
#compile simple.c 
#link simple 


will run on a Workabout without any difficulty whatsoever (see the chapter Building an Application in the 
General Programming Manual for further discussion of TopSpeed .pr project files and their usage). 


However, it is recommended that Workabout developers rewrite the above program to use the Psion- 
specific PLIB library, as follows: 


#include <p_std.h> 
#include <p_sys.h> 


int main (void) 
{ 
p_puts ("Hello world"); 
p_getch (); 
return (0); 


} 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


with the project file changed to: 


#system epoc img 
#set epocinit=iplib 
#model small jpi 
#compile simple.c 
#link simple 


The relative merits of CLIB and PLIB are described in the Building an Application chapter of the General 
Programming Manual and the Introduction chapter of the PLIB Reference manual, and will not be further 
discussed here. 


Since the use of PLIB functions is essential for accessing many of the built-in software features - the 
enhanced graphics facilities of the Window Server, for example - the remainder of this chapter is biased 
towards PLIB. 


Writing the user interface 
A SIBO interface can be written in one of the following ways: 


e Using console service functions such as p_printf, p_get1, and p_puts (or their CLIB 
equivalents). These functions can only produce simple row and column text-based output, but can 
be extremely useful when debugging an application. 


e Using functions in the Window Server library with the contents of each window backed up with a 
bitmap. This method is capable of producing a high quality graphical display, but can be 
expensive in terms of memory usage. 


e Using functions in the Window Server library with the contents of each window explicitly 
redrawn. This method is also capable of creating a high quality graphical display. Furthermore, it 
is more efficient than the use of bitmap backups, both in terms of memory usage and speed of 
drawing. 


If following either of the last two of these options, you have a further choice of approaches as follows: 


¢ Make direct use of PLIB and Window Server library functions only. This approach gives you the 
freedom to implement any form of user interface. However, development of any but a simple 
interface may require a significantly increased programming effort compared with the following 
two approaches. 


¢ Combine PLIB and Window Server calls with the HWIF library. This approach to application 
development, which uses standard C programming techniques, is described in the Programming 
in Hwif manual. It provides access, with some restrictions, to the elements of the built-in user 
interface that is used for the applications that run under the System Screen. 


e Use object oriented programming techniques, combining PLIB and Window Server calls with use 
of the built-in OLIB, FORM, HWIM and XADD libraries. This approach (referred to in this SDK 
as HWIM programming) allows full access to the elements of the built-in user interface, at the 
cost of an increased learning curve. See the Object Oriented Programming Guide for a 
description of the relevant techniques. 


These three approaches can, to some extent, be combined. It is, for example, permissible for programs 
developed predominantly using either of the first two approaches to make object oriented accesses to the 
OLIB library, which does not have any dependency on the choice of user interface. 


Synchronous or asynchronous processing 


There is a class of programs in which all input to a program comes via the keyboard. These programs can 
be schematised as follows: 


Initialise(); 

FOREVER 
{ 
ReadKeyFromKeyboard() ; 
ProcessKey (); 


} 


Whilst waiting for a key from the keyboard, the program "hangs", i.e. it is unresponsive to other sources 
of input. In this case the hanging of the program does not matter, as there are no other sources of input. 


The call ReadkeyFromKeyboard makes what is known as a synchronous read for a key; it is synchronous 
because it does not return until the keypress it is waiting for has been delivered: the return of the call 
making the request is automatically synchronised with the delivery of the keypress. 


2-2 


2 WRITING SOFTWARE FOR THE WORKABOUT 


Consider another example of synchronous i/o. In this case, a program that is printing data might be 
structured (at least in part) as follows: 


Initialise(); 

FOREVER 
{ 
PrepareLineToPrint (); 
SendLineToPrinter (); 


} 


This program loop terminates when there is nothing left to print. Now the process of sending a line of 
data to the printer might take some time. Furthermore, the printer's buffer could be full, in which case the 
program would have to wait for the buffer to empty a bit before being able to transmit the next line for 
printing. If the call sendLineToPrinter is implemented synchronously, the program will "hang" in this 
call until the data had been transmitted to the printer. In this state, the program is, again, unresponsive to 
other sources of input. 


A printing program could, and should, allow the user to terminate the printing while it is in progress by 
simply pressing a predefined key. This means that the program must remain responsive to keypresses even 
while data is waiting to be sent to the printer. Such a modification requires the synchronous call 
SendLineToPrinter to become asynchronous. 


The software on all SIBO machines has been explicitly designed to address these issues. For all but the 
simplest of programs the concept of asynchronous events 1s central to successful programming on the 
Workabout, and application developers are strongly urged to face up to this issue squarely, from the 
beginning. Example programs in the Fundamental Programming Guidelines chapter of the General 
Programming Manual cover the necessary concepts in a thorough yet straightforward manner. 


Customisation options 


The Workabout is designed to facilitate software customisation. Although (unlike the HC) the contents of 
the ROM can not be reprogrammed, there are a number of ways in which the Workabout can run custom 
application software. These include: 


e replacing the Startup Shell, 

e replacing the Command Processor, 

e replacing the System Screen, 

e adding further applications to those that run under the System Screen, 
e supplying an autoexec file. 


Only the last of these techniques is recommended as a standard way of customising a Workabout. 
Nevertheless, the others are techniques that can be used if there is a particular reason for doing so. 


Replacing the Startup Shell 


When the Workabout is first switched on (or following a reset), the Window Server sys$wsrv.img looks 
for and runs a program called sys$shll.img. It looks for this program in the root directory of all local 
drives, scanning them in alphabetical order, and finally in the ROM. Note that this is not the same search 
order as is used to locate program files that are executed from the Command Processor. 


The Window Server also looks for a program of this name, along the same path, whenever the Startup 
Shell terminates - either normally or abnormally - so as never to leave the Workabout without a version of 
sys$shil.img running on it. 


The program started in this way is called the Startup Shell. The built-in version is the program that, on 
start-up, looks for and runs any autoexec file or, if no such file is found, presents the Psion logo. 


The Startup Shell program in the ROM can clearly be replaced by one on an SSD. There is, however, only 
a very small RAM overhead involved in having the standard Workabout Startup Shell installed and, 
unless an application needs as much available RAM as possible, there is little advantage in replacing it. It 
may be of interest to note that this technique is, in fact, used by Psion during factory testing. 


During development and initial testing, a replacement Startup Shell should be given another name, such 
as workshil.img, and only renamed to sys$shll.img when you are sure that it is free of serious bugs. 


2-3 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


If a replacement Startup Shell is on an SSD, you can revert to the built-in version simply by removing the 
SSD and performing a soft reset. This will preserve any data in the machine's RAM. With a replacement 
startup shell on the M: internal drive, the only way to revert to the built-in Startup Shell is to perform a 
hard reset, or to remove all power from the machine - including the backup battery. This will also erase 
any other data held in RAM. 


Replacing the Command Processor 


The ROM Command Processor is provided for development work, supporting a rich variety of file 
management, task management, system configuration, and batch file processing commands. However, this 
functionality brings its own cost in RAM consumption that may well be undesirable for a Workabout 
running application software. For this reason the Command Processor is not loaded into RAM when the 
Workabout is first switched on. 


The Startup Shell on the Workabout, sys$shll.img, looks for a program called sys$cmdp.img if the 
Command processor menu option is selected from the System Interface selection dialog, or if the 
Command Processor needs to be loaded to execute a batch file. In either case it looks for the file in 

the root directory and then the \img directory of drive A:, and then in each of the other local drives 
(including M:). The drives are scanned in alphabetical order. If the file is not found in any local drive, the 
search concludes by looking in the ROM. The Command Processor program in the ROM can thus be 
over-ridden by one in any local drive. (Note that the search order is not the same as that used to locate 
program files that are executed from the Command Processor.) 


If a replacement Command Processor is on an SSD, you can revert to the built-in version simply by 
removing the SSD at a time when the Command Processor is not running. If the replacement is on the M: 
internal drive, reverting to the built-in version may be less easy. If the replacement Command Processor 
allows you to exit, you can do so and then rename or delete it from, say, the System Screen. Otherwise, the 
only option may be to perform a hard reset. 


One possible use of a custom Command Processor file is to discourage "hackers". Minimal custom System 
Interfaces could be provided on the same SSD as the autoexec file, and could even be copied automatically 
onto the internal drive. These custom System Interfaces would merely notify the user that their chosen 
option was not allowed and return them to their application program or to the Startup Shell. 


Replacing the System Screen 


The built-in System Screen and the applications that run under it are provided mainly to illustrate some of 
the possibilities for custom applications, but they may also be useful for development work. 


The Startup Shell on the Workabout, sys$shil.img, looks for a program called sys$gsys.img if the System 
screen menu option is selected from the System Interface selection dialog. It looks for the file in the root 
directory and then the \img directory of drive A:, and then in each of the other local drives (including M:). 
The drives are scanned in alphabetical order. If the file is not found in any local drive, the search 
concludes by looking in the ROM. The System Screen program in the ROM can thus be over-ridden by 
one in any local drive. (Note that the search order is not the same as that used to locate program files that 
are executed from the Command Processor.) 


If a replacement System Screen is on an SSD, you can revert to the built-in version simply by removing 
the SSD at a time when the System Screen is not running. If the replacement is on the M: internal drive, 
reverting to the built-in version may be less easy. If the replacement System Screen allows you to exit, you 
can do so and then rename or delete it from, say, the Command Processor. Otherwise, the only option may 
be to perform a hard reset. 


As with the Command Processor, one possible use of a custom System Screen file is to discourage 
"hackers". Minimal custom System Interfaces could be provided on the same SSD as the autoexec file, 
and could even be copied automatically onto the internal drive. These custom System Interfaces would 
merely notify the user that their chosen option was not allowed and return them to their application 
program or to the Startup Shell. 


Adding System Screen applications 


Strictly speaking, this technique should not be termed customisation, but is included for the sake of 
completeness. 


It is not a viable option for the vast majority of end-user machines, but can be a useful aid to development 
work. The following types of file, copied to any local drive, can be run under the System Screen: 


¢ application programs, written in C, with a .app extension and located in a \app directory (directly 
installable from the Install option of the System Screen's Apps menu) 


2 WRITING SOFTWARE FOR THE WORKABOUT 


e image files, written in C, with a .img extension and located in a \img directory (run from the 
RunImg icon that can be installed by means of the Install standard option of the System Screen's 
Apps menu) 


e translated OPL applications, with a .opa extension and located in a \opa directory (directly 
installable from the Install option of the System Screen's Apps menu) 


e translated OPL programs, with a .opo extension and located in a \opo directory (run from the 
RunOpl icon that can be installed by means of the Install standard option of the System Screen's 
Apps menu) 


Any such program written for the Series 3 will run without modification on the Workabout. 


In principle, Series 3a programs should also run on the Workabout. In practice, Series 3a programs may 
need some degree of modification to ensure, for example, that any dialogs and command menus will fit on 
the Workabout's screen. 


See the Series 3/3a Programming Guide for information on writing applications to run under the System 
Screen. 


Supplying an autoexec file 


Most end-user machines will run customised application software via the built-in autoexec mechanism, by 
which the Startup Shell will search for and run a file with the file name autoexec and an extension that is 
one of: .img, .app, .opo, .opa, or .btf. 


The Startup Shell first searches for a file with the name autoexec.img in the root directory and then in a 
\img subdirectory of drive A: The search for this file continues in all other local drives, taken in alphabetic 
order, that is, in B:, C: (if it is present) and M:. The Startup Shell does not look for autoexec.img in the 
ROM. 


If such a file is not found, the Startup Shell searches for other autoexec files in the following order: 
¢ an autoexec.app file in the root directory and a \app subdirectory 
e an autoexec.opo file in the root directory and a \opo subdirectory 
e an autoexec.opa file in the root directory and a \app subdirectory 
e an autoexec. btf file in the root directory and a \bff subdirectory 
In each case all local drives are searched in alphabetic order, as described for the search for autoexec.img. 


If an autoexec file is written in OPL (that is, it has an extension of either .opo or .opa) its execution 
requires the OPL runtime software provided by the file sys$prgo.img. The search for this file looks in the 
root and \img directories of all local drives (again in alphabetic order) and finally in the ROM. This 
search order allows the built-in sys$prgo.img to be replaced, if required. 


If the autoexec file is a batch file (that is, with extension .btf) the Startup Shell will need to locate and run 
the Command Processor, whose file name is sys$cmdp.img, to interpret the batch file. The search for this 
file looks in the root and \img directories of all local drives (again in alphabetic order) and finally in the 
ROM. This search order allows the built-in sys$cmdp.img to be replaced, if required. 


No command line parameters are passed to any autoexec file that is run by means of this mechanism. In 
practice, many .app or .img application programs may require command line data, such as the name of a 
data file to open. In such a case, the solution is to use a short autoexec. btf batch file that starts the main 
application program, passing it such command line data as may be needed. 


A further use for such an auxiliary autoexec batch file is to provide a convenient way to make any 
necessary alterations to the default machine settings before running an application. The following 
example batch file autoexec. btf illustrates both of these uses: 


REM Set 24 hour clock and Summer Time ON 

SETDEF /t24 /ts+ 

REM Run the MY_APP.IMG program, passing two command line parameters 
START my_app my_file my_param 


Note that the program is started asynchronously, by means of the start command. The advantage of 
doing this is that execution of the batch file continues to its termination once the program has been 
started. On termination of the batch file, the Command Processor will automatically be unloaded, thereby 
releasing as much memory as possible for use by the main program. 


2-5 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


An autoexec. btf batch file must not require any intervention from the user. It must not, for example, 
contain any pAusE commands. Any other command that may require confirmation from the user, such as 
DEL, must be used in the form (e.g. pzEL /y) that requires no such confirmation. 


See the Workabout Command Processor chapter for further information about writing batch files and 
using Command Processor commands. 


Programming guidelines 


Because of the close similarity between their operating systems and the built-in software libraries, 
programming for the Workabout is very similar to programming for the Series 3 and Series 3a. The 
information in this section concentrates largely on the more significant differences. Although of interest to 
all Workabout developers, some of the topics will be of particular significance to those who are already 
familiar with developing applications for the Series 3 and/or Series 3a. 


As has been mentioned earlier, programs written for the Series 3 or the Series 3a can, in principle, be run 
without modification on the Workabout, whether they are written using CLIB, PLIB, the HWIF library or 
the HWIM object oriented user interface. In practice, Series 3a programs may need some modification 
because of the smaller screen size on the Workabout. In HWIF or HWIM programs, menu bars, pull-down 
menus and dialogs may all need to be reorganised to occupy less space. Note, however, that the 
Workabout permits dialogs to be displayed in a small font (this is supported for both HWIF and HWIM 
programming) and this may eliminate the need to otherwise modify the dialog contents. 


One further point that may cause unexpected behaviour in an application transferred from, say, the 
Series 3 is the presence of additional keys, such as the Backlight key, on the Workabout keyboard. It is 
worth a careful check of the list of special keys, given in the Events chapter of the Window Server 
Reference manual, for differences in the various keypresses that are passed to an application running on 
different machines. 


Some consequences of not running under the System Screen 


All application software on the Series 3 and Series 3a is run from the System Screen (see the Series 3/3a 
Programming Guide) whereas on the Workabout it is not. With the possible exception of software used 
during the development process, Workabout application software is normally run by means of the 
autoexec mechanism, either directly or via an autoexec.btf batch file, as described earlier in this chapter. 
In this respect, programming for the Workabout has much in common with programming for the HC (but 
with the additional possibilities arising from the availability of grey when writing to the display and of the 
graphical user interface services provided by the built-in object libraries). 


Workabout applications that do not run under the System Screen have no need for the icon and shell data 
files that are built into each Series 3/3a application (usually with a .app extension) that can be directly 
installed under the System Screen. These files contain information specifically for the use of the System 
Screen, when installing and launching the application. See the Add-files section later in this chapter for 
more information on the files that may be built into a Workabout application. 


Applications that are not run under the System Screen obviously will not receive System Screen messages. 
One of the uses of such messages is to inform a Series 3/3a file-based application, while it is running, to 
open or create a different file. By default on the Workabout, information about which file to use can only 
be passed on start-up of the application, in the command line. 


In an HWIM application, command line processing is provided by the am_init method of the application's 
instance of (a subclass of) pwrmman. This processing is based on the assumption that the data in the 
command line is of the form supplied by the System Screen - as described in the Series 3/3a Programming 
Guide. If the application uses a different format for command line data, it will have to supply its own code 
to process that data. As for all applications running under EPOC, the command line data - with a leading 
count byte - is pointed to by the magic static DatcommandPtr. 


Data integrity 


Compared with those written for some other SIBO machines, a Workabout application is likely to be more 
critically dependent on access to data, stored either in RAM or in files. 


2 WRITING SOFTWARE FOR THE WORKABOUT 


Failure to access or to write data because the battery is too exhausted is likely to be disastrous if the user is 
away from a source of replacement power source. To some extent, this problem can be avoided by 
establishing a policy of regular battery replacement. In addition, the system software performs battery 
status checks each time the machine is switched on and will give the appropriate warning message if 
either the main or backup batteries need replacing. 


In some cases it may, however, be worth considering building regular battery status checks into the 
application software and giving the user application-specific warnings. Comprehensive information on 
battery status can be found by use of the PLIB functions, such as p_supply and p_supplyinfo, that are 
described in the Power supply section of the General System Services chapter of the PLIB Reference 
manual. 


Another potential source of problems is if a user opens the drawer, say, to change an SSD or to replace the 
batteries, and does not subsequently close it. In such a case, not only is the data on the SSDs inaccessible, 
but the Workabout is then susceptible to the ingress of dirt and moisture. If such a situation is possible, 
and is of concern, the application should make explicit checks at appropriate intervals. 


It is not possible to check for an open drawer by means of a call to the PLIB function p_iocchg, since 
EPOC only registers the change that is reported by this function at the time that the drawer is 
subsequently closed. Suitable methods of detecting an open drawer would be to attempt to access an SSD 
file that is known to exist, or to call p_dinfo for drives A: and/or B:. 


Add-files 


Any executable that is built to run on the Workabout may have up to four additional files, known as 
add-files, embedded within it. These files are combined with the main file by emake.exe, at the time the 
.img file is created. The inclusion of these files is controlled by the presence or absence of an add-file list 
(.afl) file with the same name as the .img file that is being created. See the Building an Application 
chapter in the General Programming Manual for further general information about add-files. 


The add-file list (aff) file is a plain text file, containing a list of up to four files that are to be embedded in 
the executable. An application that is to run under the system screen will generally have three embedded 
files: an icon, a resource file and a shell data file. Consider, for example, such an application, named 
myapp.app (by convention, a .img file containing add-files is renamed to have a .app extension). An 
appropriate add-file list file would be named myapp.afl and could have the following content: 


myapp.pic 
myapp.rsc 
myapp.shd 


The first and last of these three files are used by the System Screen when installing and running the 
application. In Series 3 and Series 3a applications, the icon may also be displayed in an application's 
status window, but the Workabout status window, however, never displays an application's icon. For 
further details of the icon and shell data files, see the Series 3/3a Programming Guide. 


In principle, the four possible add-files may be used for any application-specific purpose. An application 
for the Workabout will, in general, not be run from the System Screen and will therefore not need to 
contain embedded icon and shell data files. The application may, however, need to use a resource file and, 
although not mandatory, it is recommended that this file be embedded in the application. 


If the application contains an embedded resource file, and if the resource file is accessed via the OLIB 
RSCFILE Class, then the resource file must be embedded as the second add-file. This will almost certainly 
be the case for any application developed with the aid of the HWIM library. Such an application must 
have a resource file and will normally take advantage of the option for the pwrmman application manager 
automatically to create an instance of rscFr1ue. If there is no need for any other embedded files, a dummy 
file, preferably of zero length, must be created and included as the first embedded file, to ensure that the 
resource file occupies the second slot. 


No access to WLD: or ALM: 


The services required by the wip: device driver are supplied by the World application that is built into the 
Series 3 and Series 3a ROMs, but is not present on the Workabout. 


Similarly, it is the Time application on the Series 3 and Series 3a that provides the services required by 
the atm: device driver. Again, this application is not supplied on the Workabout. 


In consequence, any application using either of these device drivers will fail if run on the Workabout. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


Programming examples 


The vast majority of the examples that are supplied with this SDK are suitable for use on the Workabout. 
The Console examples (that is, those that use only the simple PLIB I/O functions for writing to the screen) 
are largely machine-independent and will run without modification. Most of the example applications that 
use either the HWIF or HWIM libraries will also run on the Workabout, unless they depend on, say, the 
wider screen of the Series 3a, or make use of facilities (such as the Series 3a's additional sound services) 
that are not available on the Workabout. 


The \sibosdk\wkdemo directory that can be installed from the Optional disk contains two examples, one 
written using HWIF and the other being an object oriented HWIM application. 


The Tables application 


The HWIF example is a modified version of the Tables program that is described in the Worked Examples 
in Hwif chapter of the Programming in Hwif manual. The unmodified version of Tables will, of course, 
run on the Workabout in compatibility mode, using a 240 x 80 region, centred vertically. 


Amongst other things, the Workabout version illustrates the modest number of changes that are, in 
general, necessary to convert a 'standard' Hwif application into one that is customised for running on the 
Workabout. Since the Tables program is described in some detail in the Programming in Hwif manual, 
the description here will concentrate on the changes that have been made. 


Apart from the project file, tables.pr, the entire source of the Workabout version of the application is 
contained in the single file tables.c. The application does not use a resource file and, if it is not run from 
the System Screen, it needs neither an icon (.pic) file nor a shell data (.shd) file. The Workabout version 
therefore does not need the tables.afl add-file list, nor any of the files that it lists. Note that, in the original 
HWIF version, the file tables.rsc is a zero-length dummy file, whose sole purpose is to ensure that 
tables.shd is added in the third add-files slot. 


The first modification is to switch out of Series 3 compatibility mode by setting the value of the variable 
_UseFullScreen to a non-zero value: 


GLREF_D UWORD _UseFullScreen; 


GLDEF_C VOID main(VOID) 
{ 
_UseFullScreen=TRUE; 
uCommontInit (); 
SpecificInit(); 
MainLoop () ; 
} 


In consequence, the application will occupy all 100 lines of the screen and the height of the main window, 
IN ReduceScreenSize, is changed from 80 to 100 pixels. Note that the use of a status window is 
maintained. This avoids changing the width of the window, which would otherwise introduce a large 
number of trivial changes to the code in terms of the horizontal positioning of the window contents. The 
status window on the Workabout does not show an application's icon, even if one is built into the 
application. When first started, the application has the appearance as shown below. 


COE D Syren) 
Node 
C4) (3) Ce) ©) 
iJ G@) GIG) 
o) CE) Ca) Gem) 
A) CB) (©) () (CE) C) 
S) 


CN ©) (P) (a) (A) 
uo fe SS A 
TM OW) OW) CO 
(a NY) REN 
Cs) CO @) SBIGH 


ye Ctrl) (pace) workabout 


2 WRITING SOFTWARE FOR THE WORKABOUT 


The vertical positioning of all the window's content is adjusted, not only because of the increased height of 
the window, but also because by default the Workabout uses an 11 point font (with font ID 
WS_FONT_BASE+9) whereas an 8 point font (with font ID ws_ront_Basg) is used when running in Series 3 
compatibility mode. The larger font is also needed when creating the edit box, in createEditor, that is 
used to receive the answer, as illustrated below. 


Score: 6 correct out of 6 
Testing all tables 
(up to 12 times 12) 


The code to create all but one of the dialogs of the original HWIF version remains unchanged, although 
their appearance changes since they make use of grey in the dialog border. The following illustration 
shows the Limits dialog. 


Score: 1 correct out of 1 


Limits for testing 


‘ 
‘Highest table. 12 \j4u) EX 
| 11:44 


Wed 25 


The dialog presented by selecting the Mode option, which selects whether to present tests on a particular 
multiplication table, or on all tables, is just too wide to be displayed in the normal font. This dialog is 
therefore set to use a smaller font: 


GLREF_D UWORD _SmallFontDialog; 


LOCAL_C VOID ChangeMode (VOID) 
{ 
H_DI_CHOICE ch; 
INT 3; 
TEXT buf [20]; 


_SmallFontDialog=TRUE; 


if (uOpenDialog ("Mode") ) 
return; 


The resulting appearance of the dialog is as follows: 


Score: 1 correct out of 1 
Testing all tables 


The application can be built in the normal way, by typing: 
make tables 


The easiest way of running it is to copy tables.img into a \img directory on the Workabout and then, from 
the Workabout's Command processor, typing: 


tables 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


The Lcdtest application 


The Lcdtest example is an HWIM application, using the object oriented techniques that are described in 
the Object Oriented Programming Guide. 


The application was written to test drawing to the Workabout's screen. It displays a variety of patterns, 
occupying every pixel. When first started, the application presents the display shown below. 


HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH 
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH 


The numeric keys, from 1 to 6 inclusive, switch to alternative display patterns, and pressing the 0 key 
inverts the current display pattern. 


The application has a small menu bar, with Control and Special menus. The Special menu offers an Exit 
option and the Control menu has options to test the backlight (assuming that it is fitted) and to test sound 


output. 
mummers) Control_|_Special_) cesses 
Backlight ~B 
Sound S| NN 


The dialog presented by selecting the Sound option is shown below. 


CDEFGHI JKLMNOPQRS TUUWXY ZABCDEF 
GHI JKLMNOP@QRS TUVWXY ZABCDEFGHI J 


|___Make test sound _/PPOR 
bl Duration (ticks) Abe 
‘Pitch(512/kHz) 3208 pcp 
=FGH 
I JKLMNOPQRS TUVWXY ZABCDEFGHIJKL 
MNOP@GRS TUUNXY ZABCDEFGHI JKLMNOP 


The Ledtest application is built by typing: 
make lcdtest 


Note that, since this application has a resource file that is read by means of an instance of the OLIB 
RSCFILE Class, the resource file is built into the application, in the second add-file slot. This requires an 
add-file list, Icdtest.afl, to be supplied, with contents: 


dummy .pic 
lcdtest.rzc 


The file dummy.pic is of zero length, and is used to ensure that the (Huffman compressed) resource file is 
built into the second add-file slot. 


Workabout specific environment variables 
The following environment variables are used only on Workabout machines. 


S$SVER 


Contains a text string representing the Workabout System Screen version number, for example, “1.00F’. 


C$P@ 


This environment variable is set when exiting from the Workabout command processor. It contains a 
single ASCII character representing the current drive, with a default value of ‘M’. 


2-10 


2 WRITING SOFTWARE FOR THE WORKABOUT 


C$PA to C$PZ 


The environment variable cspa may be set when exiting from the Workabout command processor, to 
contain a text string representing the current path on drive A. It is not set if the drive A path is to the root 
directory. 


Similar environment variables may be set for all other possible drives - csps to cspz inclusive. 


C$P£ 


This environment variable contains the parameters used by Link when accessed from the Workabout 
System Screen and/or Command Processor. 


C$P$ 


This environment variable is set following selection of the keyboard from the Command Processor or the 
System Screen. It contains a single byte whose binary value is either 0 (Standard keyboard selected) or | 
(Special keyboard selected). 


2-11 


CHAPTER 3 


THE WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


The Workabout Command Processor System Interface is started by selecting the "Command processor" 
option from the Startup Shell's command menu. 


Commands can then be entered by typing at the Command Processor, in response to a > prompt. Instead of 
commands being entered one at a time, batch files can be invoked, to run a series of commands 
consecutively - or simply to cut down on typing. For example, typing: 


xbat 


is shorthand for invoking all the commands stored in the file xbat.btf. Note that batch files must have the 
extension of .bff. 


The Workabout Command Processor provides an DOS-like utility for functions that can be executed from 
a command line. In addition to the familiar DOS commands there are several commands peculiar to the 
Workabout. Some provide information, such as LsEc, which lists the memory segments used by a process. 
Others invoke features of the Workabout which are beyond the scope of DOS, such as start, which runs 
processes asynchronously. The range of functionality covered includes file and SSD management, program 
management, information requests, and Workabout configuration. 


Although use of the Workabout Command Processor is similar to the way you would use the DOS 
command line, there are several important differences. For example: 


e Relative paths, such as ..\*.*, are not supported and the * wildcard in a file name is handled in 
a slightly different way from the way it is handled in DOS. 


e =In the Workabout Command Processor, environment variable names are case-sensitive. In 
addition, the content of an environment variable is not restricted to text, and may include binary 
data. 


The differences are explained in the later sections of this chapter. 
Two features are available in the Workabout Command Processor, but not in the DOS command line. 


e Asmall set of menu options can be accessed by pressing the Menu key. These are described in the 
Command Processor menus section of this chapter. 


e At the command line prompt, pressing Shift-Esc brings up a Help menu; pressing Ctrl-Shift-Esc 
brings up a Help index. 


Command Processor menus 


If the Menu key is pressed at any time when using the Workabout Command Processor, then a menu bar 
with three menus is presented. The options in these menus are mainly concerned with setting parameters 
and states that have a global effect. For the default machine settings, see the ss TDEF command in the 
Alphabetical listing section, later in this chapter. 


Each menu option may be accessed using an accelerator key combination that is shown in the menu, 
adjacent to the corresponding option. The available options and their corresponding accelerators are listed 
below. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


Time menu 
Time and date [Psion-T] Set the system time and date, (see Formats) 
Summer time [Shift-Psion-S] | Set summer time On or Off 
Formats [Psion-F] Set date to be displayed in one of three formats: 


Day month year 
Year month day 
Month day year 


Set the date separator to any non-alphanumeric character. 
Set the time format to either am-pm or 24 hour. 
Set the time separator to any non-alphanumeric character. 


Set the "start of week" day to any day of the week from 
Monday to Sunday. The default is Monday. 


Control menu 
Sound [Psion-S] Set all sounds to be On or Off. 
Set beeps to be Loud, Quiet or Off. 
Set keyclicks to be Loud, Quiet or Off. 


Auto switch off [Psion-A] Set auto switch off of the machine to Yes or No or "If no 
external power". 


Set the auto switch off time of the machine to any whole 
number of minutes between one and thirty. 


Set auto switch off of the backlight to Yes or No. 


Set the auto switch off time of the backlight to any whole 
number of minutes between one and ten. 


Set the backlight key as Disabled or Enabled. 


Special keyboard [Psion-K] Switch between "Special keyboard selected" and "Standard 
keyboard selected". There is no dialog. 


Special menu 
Remote link [Psion-L] Set remote link On or Off 


Set the baud rate to one of 300, 600,1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 or 
19200. 


Set the communications port to A, B or C. 
Set any extra parameters required. 


Wrap on [Psion-W] Switch between "Wrap is on" and "Wrap is off". When Wrap 
is on, displayed text does not disappear off the edge of the 
screen, but continues on the next line. There is no dialog. 


Zoom in [Psion-Z] Increase the character font size. 
Zoom out [Shift-Psion- Decrease the character font size. 
Z| 
Exit [Psion-X] Return to the Startup Shell (Psion logo) 


Font sizes and zoom settings 


The Workabout can display characters in many fonts. The command Processor uses five different font 
sizes. The use of Zoom in and Zoom out increases or decreases font size, (see above). Zooming in (from a 
larger to a smaller font) will re-display some of the information that scrolls off the top of the screen in a 
larger font size. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


The five different zoom settings give the following number of characters per line and lines of text on the 
screen: 


Font size Number of — Characters 
lines per line 
6 12 39 
8 9 29 
11 7 27 
13 6 23 
16 5 18 


Batch file processing 


Batch files are plain text files, containing a sequence of Command Processor commands, each on a 
separate line. By default, EPOC batch files have extension .btf. They are normally expected to be stored in 
a \btf directory. 


To invoke the batch file with name backup. btf, just type backup at the > prompt in the Command 
Processor. Batch files are always run synchronously. This means that while the batch file is executing, the 
user cannot task back to the Command Processor and continue to issue other commands. No additional 
commands can be typed into the Command Processor until any batch files it is executing have completed. 


If necessary, the full path of the batch file should be given too. Thus: 
loc::b:\batch\backup 

or 
rem::c:\workabt\devp\restore.bat 


The extension needs to be supplied only in cases where it differs from .btf: Note that Joc:: specifies the 
local filing system (the default) and rem:: specifies the remote filing system. 


If the batch file name is preceded by start (see Launching programs below) it will still be run 
synchronously; thus: 


start loc::b:\batch\backup 
is exactly the same as: 
loc::b:\batch\backup 
Batch files can also call other batch files, and so on, up to eight levels deep. 
If more complex functionality is required, a program should be written, to replace the batch file. 


Launching programs 


As well as running batch files, the Command Processor can be used to launch programs - either EPOC 
executables (typically with extension .img or .app) OPL programs (with extension .opo) or OPL 
applications (with extension .opa). 


Like batch files, these other programs are run simply by typing their name. 
Typing the line 

dojob 
has in fact the following effect: 


e The Command Processor checks for an internal command with the name tinx. If such a 
command is found, it is executed. 


e If no such command exists, the Command Processor looks for a file dojob.img in the ROM, and 
then in a \img directory on each of the local drives. If such a file is found it is executed. 


e If no such .img file exists, the Command Processor looks for a file dojob.app in the ROM, and 
then in a \app directory on each of the local drives. If such a file is found it is executed. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


e If no such .app file exists, the Command Processor looks for a file dojob.opo in the ROM, and 
then in a \opo directory on each of the local drives. If such a file is found it is executed. 


e Ifno such .opo file exists, the Command Processor looks for a file dojob.opa in the ROM, and 
then in a \app directory on each of the local drives. If such a file is found it is executed. 


e If no such .opa file exists, the Command Processor looks for a file dojob.btf in the ROM, and 
then in a \b¢f directory on each of the local drives. If such a file is found it is executed. 


In all cases, the local drives are searched in the order A:, B:, C:, M:. 


Note that, for example, a file dojob.img will be found in preference to a file dojob.btf. To ensure that a file 
with a specific extension is run, enter the extension explicitly, for example: 


dojob.btf 


A program may be run from a directory other than the standard directory for a file of that type, provided 
the directory is specified explicitly, for example: 


\mydir\dojob.img 


will execute the first dojob.img file that is found in a \mydir\ directory in one of the local drives (the drives 
are searched in the same order as is given above). 


In general, any drive, path and/or extension that is included in the command will confine the search 
appropriately. 


Additional command line parameters can be passed to a program. For example, 
dojob.app b: 
will execute dojob.app, passing it a command line containing the string "b:". 


Synchronous and asynchronous programs 


In contrast to batch files, which are always run synchronously (see above), programs can be run either 
synchronously or, exploiting the multi-tasking capabilities of the Workabout, asynchronously. 


By default, a program is launched synchronously, if its name is entered on its own. This means that while 
the program is executing, the user cannot task back to the Command Processor and continue to issue other 
commands. 


To run a program asynchronously, prefix the program name with the keyword start. This means that 
while the program is executing, the user can task back to the Command Processor and continue to issue 
other commands. 


When the program is started, it will by default (assuming that it has some form of user interface) take over 
the foreground screen. To access the Command Processor, or indeed any other tasks that may be running 
on the Workabout at the time, press Psion-Tab, ("Switch task"), as many times as is required. Every time 
Psion-Tab is pressed, a different program cycles into foreground. 


Note that there is no need to quit the foreground program in order to start another - start a new program 
by pressing the Psion-Tab key combination until you get into the Command Processor, then type the name 
of the program at the command line, (with or without the preceding start, as required). 


However, users should avoid starting up new programs unnecessarily - since each additional program 
reduces the processing time, memory and other resources available for the programs already running. 


Terminating programs 


Many programs contain mechanisms within themselves for the user to terminate them. For example, they 
may contain an Exit command. 


Alternatively, programs can be killed from the Command Processor, using either the stop or KILL 
commands. As is explained in the alphabetical listing below, stop should be used in preference to KILL 
whenever possible. The relevant menu options should be used to stop the built-in Psion applications. 


Note that if a program is run synchronously, it is not possible to terminate it by tasking to the Command 
Processor that launched it - since that Command Processor is inaccessible until the program terminates. 


The Psion-Shift-Ctrl-K keypress combination kills the current foreground process. In extreme 
circumstances, recourse to resetting the Workabout may be required. 


3-4 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


When a program launched from the Command Processor terminates, either normally or abnormally, the 
Startup Shell reports this fact to the user. 


The command line editor 


Up to 32 previous commands can be reviewed by means of the Up and Down cursor keys at the command 
line. Any previous command displayed in this way can be edited before being issued again. 


To clear the command line at any time, press Esc. 


As would be expected, each individual command is entered to the Workabout by pressing Enter after 
typing its name. The command name can never be abbreviated. The names of the built-in commands and 
their parameters are not case sensitive. Parameters to user-developed applications. however, may be case 
sensitive. 


Certain other keys and key combinations also have special effects in the command line editor, (or when a 
batch file is running). 


Enter Terminates a line of input. 

Del Del on its own deletes the character preceding the cursor, or any 
highlighted text (see below). 

Left/Right Move the cursor left or right along the line being edited. 

Up/Down Recall previous commands. The up and down arrow keys move backwards 
and forwards respectively through the last 32 commands (maximum) that 
were issued. 

Esc Esc on its own deletes the entire line. 


This keypress also breaks out of a batch file or a long listing, and will 
cancel a warT command 


There are also several special keypress combinations: 


Shift-Del 
Psion-Del 
Shift-Psion-Del 
Shift-Left 


Shift-Right 


Psion-Shift-Ctrl-Left 
Psion-Shift-Ctrl-Right 


Ctrl-Left 


Ctrl-Right 


Psion-Left 
Psion-Right 
Psion-Down 


Psion-Up 


Deletes the following character, (if no text is highlighted). 
Deletes from the cursor to the start of the line, (if no text is highlighted). 
Deletes from the cursor to the end of the line, (if no text is highlighted). 


Moves the cursor left, highlighting (in reverse video) all characters passed. 
If the Shift key is kept depressed and Right is then pressed the text will be 
unhighlighted again as the cursor passes. 


Moves the cursor right, highlighting (in reverse video) all characters 
passed. If the Shift key is kept depressed and Left is then pressed the text 
will be unhighlighted again as the cursor passes. 


Highlights (in reverse video) the current word. 


Highlights (in reverse video) the current line. 

This is somewhat pointless when editing batch files, since all you can then 
do is delete the line (which is more easily done by simply pressing Esc). It 
is supplied for the benefit of user-developed applications, which have 
access to the same editor. 


Moves the cursor to the beginning of the current word being edited, or of 
the preceding word if already in that position. 


Moves the cursor to the beginning of the next word to the right, or to the 
end of the line if already on the last word. 


Moves the cursor to the beginning of the line being edited. 


Moves the cursor to the end of the line being edited. 
Recalls last command issued. 


Recalls earliest recallable command. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


Shift-Esc The "Help" hotkey combination. It brings up the Command Processor Help 
menu. 

Ctrl-Shift-Esc The "Help index" hotkey combination. It is used to bring up a general Help 
index. 

Psion-Tab The "Task" hotkey combination. It allows switching between the 


Command Processor and other tasks, (if any). 


Ctrl-C The "Break" hotkey combination cancels a WAIT command. It has the 
same effect as pressing Esc. 


Ctrl-S The "Pause" hotkey combination. Pauses a batch file or a long listing. 


Pausing the screen display 


All commands automatically pause when a screenful of information has been displayed. In all cases, 
pressing Enter resumes the display. The Esc key can usually be used to terminate the command listing. 


Commands do not pause when being executed within a batch file. 


Running multiple System Interfaces 


It is not possible to run an additional copy of the Command Processor. If this is attempted by entering at 
the command line prompt of the Command Processor: 


start sys$cmdp 
a "File already exists" dialog will appear. 


It is, however, possible to run the System Screen at the same time as the Command Processor. To do this 
enter at the command line prompt of the Command Processor: 


start sysS$gsys 


The Task key combination (Psion-Tab) can then be used to switch between the two system interfaces, (and 
any other tasks that are also running). 


Only one copy of the System Screen may be started - if one is already running a "File already exists" 
dialog will appear. It is not possible to install the Command Processor in, or to start the Command 
Processor from, the System Screen. 


Files and directories 


File In Use error messages 


If any Workabout application has a file open, no other application is allowed to alter that file in any way. 
For this reason, some file commands may unexpectedly fail, when issued from the Command Processor. 


For example, it is impossible to make a complete copy of all the files in a directory if any one (or more) of 
these files is in use by another application. Commands to delete or rename such a file will likewise report 
an error. 


Default path and current directory 


Unlike MS-DOS, in which there is always a current logged directory for each different drive (and so there 
are as many current directories as there are drives), in EPOC there is only one current directory for each 
running process. Indeed, instead of referring to a current directory, it is preferable to refer to the current 
path, since the drive is included too (and the filing system). 


Unlike on the Psion HC, there is no single command to set the default path on the Workabout. The drive 
letter followed by a colon should be used to set the current drive in the Command Processor or in batch 
files, and the cb command to change the current directory. 


Note that if the current path is awork\, the effect of typing cd b:\play is the same in the Workabout 
Command Processor as in MS-DOS, but is limited to local drives. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


However, in EPOC, there is a different current path for each current application. Changing the path in one 
application does not alter the path in another application. This may be regarded as a significant 
improvement over MS-DOS, where the currently logged directories in the command processor are often 
annoyingly altered by running (synchronously!) another process. By the time the second process has 
terminated, the MS-DOS command processor may have been logged to a different drive and a different 
directory. 


Note that any changes to the path of the Command Processor inside a batch file will continue to have 
effect after the termination of the batch file, since no new process is run up just by virtue of a batch file 
being executed. 


Specifying file names as command parameters 
In all, a full file specification is regarded as having five parts: 
e 6A filing system (e.g. loc:: or rem::). 
e =A drive or device (e.g. b:). 
e =A path (e.g. \ or \accounts\jan\). 
e =A filename (e.g. job). 
e = An extension (e.g. .img). 


Frequently, it is possible to omit part of the full specification of the path of a file, when giving a filename 
as a parameter to a command in the Command Processor. Any missing parts of the filename will be filled 
in from the current path. In the Alphabetical listing below fi1espec implies a full file specification as 
listed above, filename means the name of the file only. 


For example, if the current path is m:\img\, the command attrib job.img -r operates on the file with 
full specification m:\img\job.img. However, the command att b:\backup\job.img operates, naturally 
enough, on the file b:\backup\job.img - regardless of the current path. 


If the current directory on b: is \img\, the command attrib b:job.img operates on a file b:\img\job.img 
(if one exists) - not on any file job.img in the root directory of b:. The reason for this is that the filename 
b-job.img 1s interpreted as having only the three parts: 


e =a drive (b:) 

e a basic name (job) 

e an extension (.img). 
Since the path component is missing, this is taken from the current path for the drive. 
To specify a file job.img on the root directory of b:, type: 

b:\job.img 
including the crucial \ character that indicates the path. 


Specifying paths as command parameters 


Just as it is often possible to omit part of the full specification of the path of a file, when giving a filename 
as a parameter to a command in the Command Processor, so also is it often possible to omit part of the full 
specification of a path (or directory name), when issuing a command such as ca, ma, or rd that expects a 
directory name as a parameter. Any missing parts of the directory name will be filled in from the current 
path. 


Thus if the current drive is m: and the current path is \img\, the command ma tools is equivalent to 
md m:\img\tools. Likewise cd tools 1s equivalent to cd m:\img\tools and rd tools is equivalent to 
rd m:\img\tools. 


When specifying a path, a trailing backslash can generally be used to clarify that a name is a directory 
rather than a file. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


Wildcards 


As in DOS, the wildcards ? and « may be used in the file name and/or the extension components of a file 
specification, where ? represents any single character and * represents zero or more characters. 


The use of « differs from its use in DOS in that, on the Workabout, it is possible to use, for example: 
a*b.* 
to select all files whose file name starts with a and ends with b. In DOS, a*b.* has the same effect as ax. *. 


The requirements of generality 


Evidently, although some of the syntax of commands such as ma and rd is similar to that of corresponding 
commands in DOS, in other aspects the requirements of the Workabout Command Processor syntax for 
these functions may be found more restrictive than in DOS. 


In fact, the extra restrictions stem from a central design feature of the EPOC operating system - the 
requirement for applications to be able directly to address files on a remote computer, where the remote 
filing system may well be other than DOS. Alternative remote filing systems that need to be borne in 
mind, as well as just DOS, include Unix, Vax VMS, and the Apple Macintosh operating system. 


Thus if the Workabout is connected to an Apple Macintosh computer, the following could be entered at 
the command line: 


dir rem: :hd40:Workdevp: stock 


Accordingly, the Workabout Command Processor does not simply approach filenames and path 
specifications in terms of prescence or absence of backslashes. For example, were the Command Processor 
to insert a backslash at the end of the above command, "on behalf of the user", this would, most decidedly, 
not be what the user intended. Instead, the approach is much more general, in terms of the five part 
breakdown of filename specifications discussed two sections previously. 


wom 


It should be noted that Psion computers allow the use, for example, of the "+" character in filenames, 
which is not allowed in MS-DOS for instance. For portability between filing systems and applications on 
different manufacturers machines it is recommended that only letters and numbers are used in filenames. 
At the very least filenames should be restricted to the MS-DOS naming convention. The allowed 
characters in an MS-DOS filename are: 


A-Z2 a-z 0-9 $ %® '" - @ { } ~ * 1! # ( +) & 
MS-DOS filenames are case insensitive, (upper and lower case letters are treated the same). 


Different DOS versions handle accented characters differently. It is recommended that accented characters 
are not used in filenames. 


Filenames that are keywords, the names of ports or device drivers, etc. on the Workabout or any remote 
system, should also be avoided, e.g. COM1, LPT2, etc. 


Similarly, the Workabout provides only limited support for the syntax of "double dot" (for the parent 
directory) and "single dot" (for the current directory). 


This extra discipline has its occasional drawbacks. However, the advantages that it brings with it are an 
important part of the vital inter-connectable feature of the Workabout. 


Alphabetical listing 
Notation 
This list of commands uses the following syntax: 
COMMAND supplied-parameter [optional-parameter | optional-parameter] 
or: 
COMMAND [optional-parameter] {supplied-parameter | supplied-parameter} 


Items shown in square brackets ( [ ] ) are optional. To include optional information, type only the 
information within the brackets. Do not type the square brackets themselves. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


The use of the vertical bar (| ) symbol between parameters means that one parameter OR the other 
parameter can be used, (but not both). Type only one parameter. Do not type the vertical bar itself. 


If there are alternatives but one or other must be included, the options are enclosed in curly brackets ( { } 
), if required for clarity. Type only one parameter. Do not type the curly brackets themselves. 


Shortened versions of commands are not available. In the above (generalised) example, com would not be 
an acceptable shortened form of commanp. The Workabout Command Processor thus differs from the Psion 
HC Command Processor which does allow command abbreviations. 


Commands can be typed in any combination of lower and upper case. For example, except where clearly 
stated to the contrary below, variants such as echo on and echo on are completely equivalent. 


A command keyword must be separated from any following parameter by at least one space character. 


Default values may be assumed if some options are not supplied. Default values of particular commands 
are given in the individual command descriptions which follow. 


Note: 

The following list actually contains entries that are not really commands of the Command Processor, in 
the strict sense, but are just the name of a program in the ROM, for example Linx. However, this 
distinction may seem irrelevant to the user, and so, for convenience, these commands are listed as well. 
DOS calls these external commands. 


ATTRIB Set or clear file attributes 


ATTRIB [system::][drive:][path]filename[.extension] [+a|-a] [+s|-s] [+h|-h] [+r]|-r] 
Set or reset the archived (a), system (s), hidden (h) and/or read-only (xr) attributes of a file. 


For example, attrib -a +s list.dat clears the archived attribute and sets the system attribute of Jist.dat, 
without altering its hidden or read-only attributes. 


For each of h, s, a, and r, a prefix of - clears the corresponding attribute, and a prefix of + sets it. The four 
attributes can be specified in any order, and any combination of the four bits can be set or cleared at once. 
Omitting all four is pointless: nothing will happen. 


The attris command accepts a file specification containing wildcards. 


Note that the ptr command includes the attributes of files as part of its display. 


CALC Run the calculator application 


[START] CALC 
Run the Calculator application, Calc. 
If preceded by start, Calc will be run asynchronously. 


Note: 
Help on using the Calculator application is available by pressing Shift-Esc. 


For full information on using the Calculator application, see the Workabout User Guide. 


CALL Call a batch file from inside another batch file 
[CALL ] [system::] [drive:] [path]batchfile[.extension] [batch-parameters] 
Calls a batch file from inside another batch file. 


Omitting the caLL command and just using the file specification "chains" the named batch file, and does 
not return to the current batch file on completion. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


CD Display or alter current directory 
CD [system::] [drive:] [path] 


Change to a different path, or (if path is omitted) displays the current path. Note that system: : can only 
be loc::. 


For example, to change the current directory from \work\product\ to \work\admin\, type: 
cd \work\admin\ 


To move to a directory below the current one, only the path from the current directory needs to be entered. 
So to change from \work\admin\ to \work\admin\forms\, the following command could be used: 


cd forms\ 


The trailing backslash in the above commands can be omitted. Thus cd forms instead of cd forms\ will 
do the same thing. 


Use cb [drive:]\ to change to the root directory of a drive, or of the current drive if drive: is omitted. 
For example, type: 
cd b:\ 
to change to the root directory of b:. 
Typing cd b: changes nothing and just displays the current path for b:. 
To change drive use: 


drive: 


CHDIR Change directory 


CHDIR [system::] [drive:] [path] 


Changes to a different path, or (if path is omitted) displays the current path. This command is exactly the 
same as cD. 


CLS Clear the screen 


Clear the screen, leaving the > prompt in the top left corner. 


COMMS Run the communications application 


[START] COMMS [system::] [drive:] [path] [filename[.extension] ] 
Run the communications application, Comms. 
If preceded by start, Comms will be run asynchronously. 


If no file specification is provided, and the current drive is m:, (and comms.sco does not already exist), a 
dialog is presented asking: 


Create "M:\SCO\COMMS.SCO"? 


If "Y' is then pressed the file m:\sco\comms.sco will be created, along with a file m:\scr\comms.scr, for 
later use. Note that files with the extension .scr are editable communications scripts files, and files with 
the extension .sco are translated communications script files. The user is then presented with the terminal 
emulation screen. 


Otherwise, if comms.sco does already exist, then no dialog is presented. Note that it does not matter 
whether comms.scr exists or not. 


If any system, drive or path is provided, but no filename, the comms.sco file will be placed in the specified 
location. The default directory for translated communications script files (extension .sco) is \sco\, and it is 
recommended that this is where all files of this type are kept. Note that the default directory for 
untranslated (editable) communications script files (extension .scr) is \scr\, and keeping all files of this 
type in their directory is also recommended. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


If a filename is given, a .sco file and a .scr file of that name will be created (as above) depending on 
whether they currently exist or not. 


An extension to the filename may be provided that differs from sco, but this is not recommended, since it 
would make identification of the file type difficult. 


Note: 
Help on using the Communications application is available by pressing Shift-Esc. 


For general information on using the Communications application, see the Workabout User Guide, and for 
full details refer to the Psion Series 3 3Link (RS232) manual. 


COPY Copy file(s) 


COPY source_filespec destination_filespec [/s] [/y] 

Copy one or more files or directories, possibly changing their names in the process. 

If the /s flag is used then all subdirectories of a specified source directory will also be copied. 
The /y switch allows overwriting without confirmation. 


Any part of the target filename that is not specified, (for example, the extension), and which cannot be 
filled in from corresponding parts in the current drive and path, is taken from the corresponding part of 
the first pathname. 


If the destination filename is that of an existing file, then that file will be overwritten. Unless /y is 
specified, a "File exists" dialog appears, requesting confirmation, before the file is overwritten. 


The wildcards « and ? can be used to copy multiple files. 
For example: 
copy fred.* a:\jim.* 


copies all files with a file name of fred, but any extension, from the current directory into the root of a.\, 
renaming them, without altering the extension in the process. 


As a possibly surprising example, if the current drive is m: and the current path is \, the command 
copy a:\file.lis file.oid has the effect of copying the named file to m-\file.old. 


The names of the source files are listed on the screen as they are copied. 


A file cannot be copied onto itself. If an attempt is made to do this, the copy command quits, and an error 
message such as the following is displayed: 


Copy failed : 0 files 


DATA Run the database application 
[START] DATA [system::] [drive:] [path] [filename[.extension] ] 

Run the database application, Data. 

If preceded by start, Data will be run asynchronously. 


If no file specification is provided, and the current drive is m-:, (and data,dbf does not already exist), a 
dialog is presented asking: 


Create "M:\DAT\DATA.DBF"? 
Otherwise, if data.dbf does already exist, then it will be presented directly for editing. 


If any system, drive or path is provided, but no filename, the data.dbf file will be placed in, (or retrieved 
from), the specified location. The default directory is \dar\, and it is recommended that this is where all 
database files are kept. 


If a filename is given, a .dbf file of that name will be created (as above) and/or presented for editing 
depending on whether it currently exists or not. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


An extension to the filename may be provided that differs from .dbf, but this is not recommended, since it 
would make identification of the file type difficult. 


For general information on using the Database application, see the Workabout User Guide. 


This application may be useful for quickly looking at or manipulating OPL data files. There are, however, 
certain restrictions and differences that must be borne in mind. See the Database files chapter of the SIBO 
OPL Technical Reference manual for further details. 


Note: 
Help on using the Database application is available by pressing Shift-Esc. 


DATE Display date 


DATE 


Display the current date in the default format, or that specified by the most recent szETDEF or menu 
command. 


The default display format is: 
dd/mm/yy 
For example 12/10/95 will be displayed if the current system date is 12 October 1995. 


If the day of the month or the month number itself has only a single digit, a leading zero is displayed. The 
first day of January 1996 is displayed as: 


01/01/96 
Use the Time and Date option on the Time menu to change the date. 


Use the setpEF command or the Formats option of the Time menu to change the format in which the date 
is displayed. 


DEL Delete file(s) 


DEL [system::][drive:][path]filespec [/s] [/y] 

Delete the specified file or files. 

If the /s flag is used, all subdirectories and the files in them are deleted. 

If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files 


To delete more than one file at a time, the wildcards * and/or ? can be used. Alternatively, the following 
deletes all files in the directory temp (in the current path): 


del temp\ 


The trailing backslash may be omitted, in which case a dialog is presented: "Delete all files in directory?". 
The Y key should then be pressed to carry out the deletion. 


As files are deleted, the names of the files deleted are listed on the screen. 


The erase command is exactly the same as peu. See also the command rp, which deletes directories. 


DIR Full directory listing 


DIR [system::][drive:] [path] [filespec] [/s] [/b] 


List all the specified files in a directory, together with their sizes, the time and date of their last 
modification, and their attributes. 


The listing pauses automatically after each screen of information, prompting the user to press enter to 
continue. 


The wildcards « and ? can be used in the file specification. 
The /s flag causes all subdirectories to be listed as well. 


The /b flag causes bare (filenames only) output to be displayed. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


ECHO Display message, set or display echo mode 
ECHO [[text]|[ON | OFF]] 
Display the message text, or set the echo mode in batch files, or display the current echo mode. 


For example: 


echo Processing Displays the message Processing on the next line of the screen. 
echo on Switches the echo mode in batch files to ON. 

echo off Switches the echo mode in batch files to OFF. 

echo Displays the current echo mode in batch files, e.g.: 


Echo is OFF 
or 
Echo is ON 


EDIT Run the text editor 


EDIT [system::] [drive:] [path] filename[.extension] 
Run the text editor program. 


The three different editors for batch files, OPL programs and communications scripts are implemented as 
aliases of the Word application. 


A filename must be given (no default names are provided). 


If no extension is given then an alias of Word that behaves as a batch file editor is started, and the 
extension defaults to .btf: In this instance there are no Translate and Run menu options available, since 
they are not relevant. 


If the filename is given an extension of .op/ then the Word alias behaves as an OPL program editor. If the 
filename is given an extension of .scr then it behaves as a communications script editor. In both these 
instances, Translate and Run menu options are available (translation is different for .scr and .op!l files). 


If a path is not given then \bif\, \op/\ or \scr\ is assumed as the directory for a batch file (.btf) an OPL 
program (.op/) or a communications script (.scr) respectively. 


If any other extension is given for the filename and no path is specified then the file will be put in a \btf\ 
directory. 


If you supply a partial path, the Command Processor will try to use the results of your last cp command on 
the relevant drive. 


If a filename is not supplied, the error message "Too few parameters" is displayed. 
If a filename is given, but no extension: 
e = Ifa file called filename. btf does not already exist, then a dialog is presented, asking: 
Create "M:\BTF\FILENAME.BTF"? 
If Y is then pressed the editor will display a blank file of name filename. btf, ready for editing. 


e = Ifa file called filename. btf does already exist, then no dialog is presented, and the existing file 
filename. btf is presented for re-editing. 


Similar dialogs and messages are presented for files with .scr and .opl extensions. 
When saved, or the editor is exited, files are stored in the specified directory. 


Notes: 

The ep1T command starts an alias of the Word application. When epit (or sTART EDIT) is used the 
process started will appear in an Lproc or Ls&c listing as an instance of Word. As well as using EDIT 
directly from the Command Processor or from a batch file, aliases of Word can be started from one of the 
editor icons in the System Screen. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


The first time that EpIT is used to run the batch file editor, the program editor or the communications 
script editor, a \wdr\ directory will be created (if it does not already exist). This directory is used for the 
storage of printer drivers and template files. Furthermore, the first time the program editor is used the 
default template default.o is stored in this directory. 


Help on using the Editors is available by pressing Shift-Esc. All the editors function in the same way. 


For further information on the various editors see the Workabout User Guide. There is more information 
on the Communications Script Editor in the Psion Series 3 3Link (RS232) manual. 


ERASE Delete file(s) 


ERASE [system::] [drive:][path]filespec [/s] [/y] 

Delete the specified file or files. 

If the /s flag is used, all subdirectories and the files in them are deleted. 

If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files. 


To delete more than one file at a time, the wildcards * and/or ? can be used. Alternatively, the following 
deletes all files in the directory temp (in the current path): 


erase temp\ 


The trailing backslash may be omitted, in which case a dialog is presented: "Delete all files in directory?". 
The Y key should then be pressed to carry out the deletion. 


As files are deleted, the names of the files deleted are listed on the screen. 


The command pet is exactly the same as grass. See also the command rp, which deletes directories. 


ERRLEVEL Display error state 


ERRLEVEL 
Display the error state, which may be TRUE or FALSE, e.g.: 
Errorlevel is FALSE 


It reports whether the last command or process to finish left ERRORLEVEL Set aS TRUE Or FALSE. This may be 
useful when debugging batch files. 


EXIT Terminate the Command Processor 
EXIT 
Present a dialog offering options to terminate the Command Processor or cancel the command. 


On confirmation of an ExT command typed directly into the Command Processor (or of the selection of 
the Exit option from the Special menu) the Command Processor is terminated. If there is no other task 
running on the machine, the Workabout will then automatically re-launch the Startup Shell process, as 
explained in the chapter [Introduction to the Workabout. If one or more other tasks are running, the 
machine will switch tasks to whichever running application was last used. 


If the exrT command is executed from a (nested) batch file, all levels of batch processing are terminated 
immediately and the confirmation dialog presented. On confirming the Ex1tT command, the Command 
Processor terminates in the same way as when ex1T is typed directly into the Command Processor. 


FILES List open files 


FILES [system::] [drive:] 


List all open files on the specified drive. For each file the full file specification, the program using the file 
and its process number are given. 


If the drive is not specified, open files on the current drive are listed. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


FOR Run a command for the files in a set 
FOR Svariable IN (set) DO command [parameters] 
Run a command for each file in a specified set of files. 


The replaceable parameter svariable is used by the ror command to hold the name of each file as it is 
being processed. 


The set of files is specified by set. The wildcards * and ? can be used. The parentheses are always 
required. 


The command to carry out for each file in the set is specified by command. The parameters or switches for 
the specified command are given by parameters, if the command needs any. 


To use the ror command in a batch file, specify ssvariable instead of variable. 
For example, to asynchronously run all application files in the a:\app\ directory: 
for %f in (a:\app\*.app) do start %f 
From within a batch file, this same sequence of operations would be performed by the line: 


for %%f in (a:\app\*.app) do start %%f 


FORMAT Format and re-label local volume 
FORMAT [drive:] [volname] 


Format a local volume i.e. a RAM or Flash SSD in drive A: or B:, or the internal drive M:RAMDRIVE. 
It also renames the volume with the optional voiname. 


The command detects the type of SSD and places the appropriate format information onto the disk. This 
information differs for Flash and RAM SSDs. 


For example, format a: will format the SSD in drive A: . 

The command, format b:data will format the SSD in drive B:, giving it the volume name "DATA". 
If drive: is omitted, a dialog appears asking if you want to format M:RAMDRIVE. 

Note that, once the format command is started, no warning is given before the formatting takes place. 


The mere fact that there are read-only files on an SSD or the internal drive will not prevent the it 
from being formatted. However, if an SSD has the write-protection switch set, it will not be possible to 
format it. 


The rormat command will fail if there is no SSD in the specified drive. In this case, the Format request 
will fail with the error message "Format failed. Not ready". 


Another reason for Format being disallowed for a disk would be if there are any open files on it. In this 
case, the rormaT request will fail with the error message "File or device in use". 


If an SSD needs to be to be given a volume name at a later date, then the LaBEL command may be used. To 
find the current volume name, use the von and/or ptr commands. 


GOTO Jump to label in batch file 


GOTO label 


Jump to the label 1abe1 in a batch file. 


HELP List commands or get help 
HELP [command] 
List the available commands, or supply help on a specific command. 


Press Shift-Off for access to the Help System, or Ctrl-Off for the Help Index. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


IF Run command conditionally 


IF [NOT] {ERRORLEVEL | stringl==string2 | EXIST filespec} command [command_parameters] 
Conditionally run a command or executable file, depending on one of three possible specified conditions. 


e ©The value of ERRORLEVEL., for example: 
IF ERRORLEVEL DEL *.tmp 


Note that ERRORLEVEL can only be TRuE or FALSE. The DOS syntax: 
IF ERRORLEVEL n ... 
is not supported 


e Whether two strings (string1 and string2) are equivalent, for example 
IF ?$1==? DEL *.tmp 


e Whether a specified file exists, for example: 
IF EXIST a:\img\tmp.img DEL a:\img\tmp.img 


KILL Kill a process 


KILL procname [/y] 


Kill the first process found to match the specification in procname. Note that this is intended for 
emergency use only. 


If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files, but should be 
used with extreme caution. 


To kill a specified instance of a number of running tasks, all with the same name, the exact process name 
must be found out and used. For example: 


kill job.$09 
or 
kill job.$14 


If there are no processes matching the specification, a notifier stating: 


Unknown process "Procname" 
will be presented. Use the tproc command to give the full process names of all current processes. 


A confirmation dialog is presented if a process matching the specification is found, reminding the user 
that x11 is for emergency use only: 


Kill "Procname" 
(Emergency only) 


Notes: 

KILL should only be used as a last resort, as it does not allow the process to tidy up before exiting. This is a 
problem with the Link application, for example, which starts a number of sub-processes that will not be 
shut down if Link is stopped with x1... To shut down a process, stop should normally be used in 
preference to KILL. 


The xrLi command is designed for use with badly behaved (perhaps partially developed) user-written 
programs. Built in Psion applications should be stopped using the options available from their menus, 
from the System Screen or by use of the stop command. 


LABEL Add/alter disk volume name 


LABEL [drive:] [volname] 
Label the volume in the specified drive with the label voiname. 


If the drive is omitted then the current local volume (i.e. an SSD in the current drive, A: or B:; or the 
internal ramdrive M:), will be re-labelled with the label voiname. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


If the name volname is omitted then a "Delete label" dialog will appear (unless the volume in the specified 
drive, or current drive, has no label). 


For example: 
label a:backup 
Will re-label the SSD in drive A: as "backup". 


If the command 1abei a: is now used then the dialog "Delete label "A:BACKUP"' will be displayed. 
Pressing Y then deletes the label, pressing N or Esc abandons the command. 


LINK Start Link program 


LINK [-b<baud>] [-p<port>] 


Starts the Link communication software on the Workabout. It is always run asynchronously, so start is 
never needed. 


If no parameters are supplied, the Link software is started with the default settings, or those used on the 
last occasion that Link was started, whether by means of the LInx command or via the dialogs available in 
the System Screen and Command Processor menus. 


The value of baud sets the baud rate. Possible values range from 19200 to 50 inclusive - for a full list of 
intermediate values, see the Serial Port chapter of the I/O Devices Reference manual. In the absence of 
the baud command line parameter, the baud rate defaults to 19200. 


The only time it is necessary to specify port is if there are serial expansion devices in the Workabout. 
¢ -p1 means to use the expansion RS232 port, (port A) 


e -p3 means to use the LIF socket (LIF Converter with attached 3Link inserted) as an RS232 serial 
port (port C) 


Otherwise, if port is not specified, the Link software simply uses the first available port in alphabetical 
order. 


Other parameters are also possible, but are omitted from the present description. See the chapter Mclink, 
Mcprint, and Slink in the Additional System Information manual. Just typing 1ink should suffice in the 
majority of cases. 


To terminate the Link software at some later stage, type: 
stop link 

A Yes/No dialog will be presented asking: 
Stop "Link"? 

y should then be pressed to stop Link. 


To discover whether or not Link software is running, type lproc 1ink. Note, however, that if the 1ink 
command is issued while Link is already running, no harm will be done. 


See the section Connecting to other computers in the chapter Introduction to the Workabout, for more 
details. 


LLDEV List logical device drivers 


LLDEV [device_spec] 


List all logical device drivers that match the supplied specification. The list includes all ROM-resident 
logical device drivers, as well as external ones that are currently loaded. 


If device_spec is omitted, all existing logical device drivers are listed. 
For example, entering 


lldev con 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


displays: 


Logical devices matching: con 
CON (unlimited units) 
Matches found 1 


The value given for units is the number of channels that the corresponding logical device driver can 
support. For the console device (con: ) an unlimited number of channels can be opened. 


LPDEV List physical device drivers 


LPDEV [device_spec] 


List all physical device drivers that match the supplied specification. The list includes all ROM-resident 


physical device drivers, as well as external ones that are currently loaded. 
If device_spec is omitted, all existing physical device drivers are listed. 
For example, entering 

lpdev fsy 
displays: 


Physical devices matching: fsy 
FSY.REM 

FSY.LOC 

FSY.ROM 

Matches found 3 


listing the three ROM-resident filing system device (fsy) drivers - for rem::, loc::, and rom::. 


LPROC 


LPROC [process_spec] 
List information about all specified processes. The information listed is: 
e The full process name (in the form procname.$07). 
e The size, in bytes, of the process data segment (given in hexadecimal). 
e The current state of the process. 
The total number of matches found is then displayed. 
If process_spec is omitted, information is listed for all current processes. 
Possible values of the state of the process are: 


CURRENT The process is currently receiving CPU time. 


List processes 


READY The process has some events ready to process, as soon as the CPU is given to the 


process by the multi-tasking scheduler. 


DELTA The process is "sleeping" (e.g. as a result of calling pausz with a positive 
parameter). 

sus The process has been suspended. 

SEM The process is waiting for some event to happen. 


Additionally, the text wsusp will be displayed if the process is waiting to be suspended. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


For example, entering 1proc may produce the display: 


Processes matching: * 
SYSSNULL.$01 0300 READY 
SYSSMANG.$02 ODAO SEM 
SYSSFSRV.$03 1320 SEM 
SYSSWSRV.$04 4DCO SEM 
SYSSSHLL.$05 14CO SEM 
SYSSCMDP.$06 4BCO CURRENT 
Matches found 6 


As a further example, entering lproc sys$sh11 may produce the display 


Processes matching: sys$shll 
SYSSSHLL.$05 14C0 SEM 
Matches found 1 


One common use of the 1proc command is to check whether Link software is currently running: 1proc 
link. 


Notes: 

For a process that is an alias of another program, using sTART procname (or just procname on its own) will 
start a process that appears to LpRoc as an instance of the base process. For example, all text or program 
editors are aliases of the Word application. In consequence, processes started with Ep1T or sTarRT EDIT all 
appear as instances of Word in an tprRoc listing. 


Note also that Sheet is the user-visible name of the Sh3 process. Thus, a process started with starRT SHEET 
or with sHEET will appear as an instance of Sh3 in the proc listing. 


LSEG List segments 


LSEG [process_spec] 
List all memory segments currently in use by the specified process(es). 


If process_spec iS omitted, the listing will include the memory segments used by all currently running 
processes. 


The information listed about each memory segment is: 
e Its segment address. 
e Its size in paragraphs (one paragraph is sixteen bytes). 
e Its access count. 

Values are displayed in hexadecimal. 

The total number of matches found is then displayed. 


At the end the display, the total size in paragraphs of all the free segments is given (this gives the same 
value, when converted into kilobytes, as the mzm command). 


For example, entering 1seg may produce the display: 


Segments matching: * 
SYSSNULL.$01 046E 0030 01 
SYSSMANG.$02 049E OODA O01 
SYSSWSRV.LDD 0578 O0E3 01 
SYSSFSRV.$03 065B 01B7 01 
SYSSWSRV.S$04 0812 0560 O01 
SYSSSHLL.$05 OD72 014C O01 
SYSSCMDP.$06 OEBE O4BC 01 
Matches found 7 

Total free segments = 6CFO 


Notes: 

For a process that is an alias of another program, using sTaRT procname (or just procname on its own) will 
start a process that appears to LsEG as an instance of the base process. For example, all text or program 
editors are aliases of the Word application. In consequence, processes started with Ep1T or sTarRT EDIT all 
appear as instances of Word in an tszc listing. 


Note also that Sheet is the user-visible name of the Sh3 process. Thus, a process started with sTaRT SHEET 
or with sHEET will appear as an instance of Sh3 in the tsze listing. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


MD Make directory 
MD [drive:]path 
Make a directory. 


A directory will be created as a subdirectory of the current directory, unless a different path is explicitly 
specified. 


It is possible to omit the trailing backslash from the path specification. 
The following commands both create a directory named \work\ in the root directory of the current drive: 


md \work\ 
md \work 


The command mxp1R (which is identical) is also available. 


MEM Display free memory 
MEM 
Display the amount of free RAM, in kilobytes, that is available to programs. 


Note that this, in general, exceeds the amount of bytes free in m:, as reported by a pIR command. The 
discrepancy is because some parts of internal memory are reserved for code and data segments; not all of it 
can be allocated to the contents of m-:. 


MKDIR Make directory 


MKDIR [drive:]path 
Make a directory. 


A directory will be created as a subdirectory of the current directory, unless a different path is explicitly 
specified. 


It is possible to omit the trailing backslash from the path specification. 
The following commands both create a directory named \work\ in the root directory of the current drive: 


mkdir \work\ 
mkdir \work 


The command mp (which is identical) is also available. 


PAUSE Suspend batch file processing 
PAUSE [text] 
Suspend batch file processing. 
The message text is displayed (if supplied). 
The prompt 
Press Enter to continue... 
is always shown. 


When Enter is pressed batch file processing continues by executing the next line of the current batch file. 


QUIT Terminate current batch file 


QUIT 


Terminate the current batch file. If batch files are nested, batch processing will continue at the line 
following that which contains the call to the batch file that executed gut. 


The command has no effect if typed directly into the Command Processor. 


3 - 20 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


RD Remove directory 
RD [drive:]path [/y] 

Delete a directory, including any files in it (and subdirectories). 

If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files. 


Note that, in contrast to MS-DOS, there is no requirement to delete all the files in a directory before 
removing the directory. 


In another difference from MS-DOS, it is perfectly possible, in the Workabout Command Processor, to 
remove the directory where the current path is. All that will happen is that subsequent commands such as 
dir may fail until such time as the current path is changed. 


As files and directories are deleted, their names are listed on the screen. 
The ra command does not accept a wildcard specification. 


The identical command rmprrR is also supported. 


REASON Get the cause of the last system shutdown 
REASON 
Display a numeric code indicating the cause of the last system shutdown, as follows: 


0 The system started up for the first time (or after a period during which all power had been 
removed, including the Lithium back-up battery). 


1 The hardware forced a shut-down because the main battery voltage became too low. This 
should not happen because the system software receives a non-maskable interrupt if the 
voltage drops below a certain threshold (but not low enough for the hardware to force a 
shut-down). This interrupt code automatically switches the hardware off. However, if the 
clean-up takes too long (because of a poorly designed device driver, for example) the 
hardware will force the machine off before the interrupt completes - in which case REASON 
returns 1. The environment variables and the contents of m: are preserved. 


3 Either: 
The user pressed Psion-Ctrl-Del to perform a soft reset. The environment variables and the 
contents of m: will have been preserved. 


Or: 
This reason is also given if the system was reset because a serious fault occurred while 
executing code in the operating system kernel. This could result from: 


a bug in the operating system or a system process; 
a program bug that managed to overcome the operating system's defences 
a hardware problem such as a RAM fault. 


The environment variables and the contents of m: will be preserved (unless the system 
detects a memory corruption). 


4 The user pressed Shift-Psion-Ctrl-Del to perform a hard reset. The environment variables 
and the contents of m: will have been cleared. 


For example, if the machine has previously lost all power, entering reason will return: 


Reset code: 0 


REM Comment (remark) in batch file 
REM [text] 

Comment (remark) in batch file. Note that rem must be followed by a space. 

The text characters become a comment in the batch file. 


Any text on a line preceded by rem becomes a comment that is not executed when the batch file is run. 
This is useful for temporarily removing a command line, for example, when debugging a batch file. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


REN Rename file(s) 


REN [system::] [drive:][path]filespec filename 
Change the name of a file or files. 
The command renames all files matching filespec - which can include wildcards. 
For example, the command: 
ren work.* play.* 


changes the names of all files called work in the current directory (regardless of extension) to play, with 
the extension being preserved across the rename. 


As files are renamed, they are listed on the screen. 


Because it is not possible to rename files from one directory to another, the command fails if any path 
specified with £i1ename (explicitly or implicitly) differs from that of rilespec. 


It is not possible to rename a file to have the same name as a file that already exists. 


RMDIR Remove directory 


RMDIR [drive:]path [/y] 
Delete a directory, including any files in it (and subdirectories). 
If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files. 


Note that, in contrast to MS-DOS, there is no requirement to delete all the files in a directory before 
removing the directory. 


In another difference from MS-DOS, it is perfectly possible, in the Workabout Command Processor, to 
remove the directory to which the current path is set. All that will happen is that subsequent commands 
such as dir may fail until such time as the current path is changed. 


As files and directories are deleted, their names are listed on the screen. 
The rmdir command does not accept a wildcard specification. 


The identical command ro is also supported. 


SET Display, set or delete environment variable 


SET [[var[=[value]]]| [varspec] ] 
Display or set the value of an environment variable, or delete the variable. 
With no parameters, the values of all current environment variables are displayed. 


If the environment variable var is given, but without any trailing equals (=) sign, the value of the 
environment variable is displayed. 


If the equals sign (=) is present, followed by a value, the environment variable var is set to the specified 
value. 


If the equals sign is present, but value is omitted, the environment variable var is deleted. 


If the environment variable specification varspec is given, the values of all environment variables 
matching the specification are listed. 


For example: 


set last Displays the value of environment variable 1ast. 

set last=34 Sets the value of 1ast to the string 34, creating it if it did not previously 
exist. 

set last= Deletes the environment variable last. 

set Sws* Displays the values of all environment variables whose names start with sws. 


Values are displayed inside square brackets. The list pauses when the screen is full. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


Note that environment names and values are both case dependent. Thus the environment variables group 
and Group would be distinct. 


The value (and, indeed, the name) of an environment variable may contain binary data. When displaying 
the content of an environment variable, non-printable byte values are displayed as <o04> or <o1>, for 
example. There is, however, no mechanism for setting binary values from the Command Processor. 


SETDEF Alter system settings 


SETDEF [AMnn][ABnn][DDMY | DMDY | DYMD][KO | K1][S+ | S-][T12 | 124] 

Alter system settings, (which are otherwise set by menu options). 

The sETDEF command on its own does nothing - it must be followed by at least one parameter. 
The allowed parameters are given below. 


AMnn Auto-switchoff the machine after nn minutes of inactivity. Range 01 to 30. Values 
outside this range will not give an error, but the setting will not be changed. 


ABnn Auto-switchoff the backlight after nn minutes of use. Range 01 to 10. Values outside 
this range will not give an error, but the setting will not be changed. 


DDMY Date format DD/MM/YY. Note that the separator (/) can be changed via the menus. 
DMDY Date format MM/DD/YY. 

DYMD Date format YY/MM/DD. 

Dn Set start of week to n, where 0 is Monday, | is Tuesday etc. 

KO Select standard keyboard. 

K1 Select special keyboard. 

S+ Sound on. 

s- Sound off. 

T12 Time format am-pm. Note that the separator (:) can be changed via the menus. 
T24 Time format 24 hour. 

TS+ Summer time on. 

TS- Summer time off. 


Sound settings for beeps and key clicks, zoom and text wrap on the screen are not configurable using 
SETDEF. 


The default machine settings are: 
e Auto-switchoff the machine after 5 minutes of inactivity. 
e Auto-switchoff the backlight after 10 minutes of use. 
e Date format DD/MM/YY. 
e =6The "start of week" default is Monday. 
e Standard keyboard, (unless the machine has been factory-configured for the special keyboard). 
e = All sound is on. 
e Beeps are loud. 
e = Key clicks are loud. 
e¢ Time format am-pm. The separator is a colon (:). 


e Summer time off. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


e Zoom is on setting 3 (see table for zoom settings in the Font sizes and zoom settings subsection 
earlier in this chapter). 


e Wrap is off. 


SHEET Run the spreadsheet application Sh3 


[START] {SHEET | SH3} [system::] [drive:] [path] [filename[.extension] ] 
Runs the spreadsheet application Sh3. Sheet is an alias for Sh3. 
If preceded by start, Sh3 will be run asynchronously. 


If no file specification is provided, and the current drive is m-:, (and sheet.spr does not already exist), a 
dialog is presented asking: 


Create "M:\SPR\SHEET.SPR"? 
Otherwise, if sheet.spr does already exist, then it will be presented directly for editing. 


If any system, drive or path is provided, but no filename, the sheet.spr file will be placed in, (or retrieved 
from), the specified location. The default directory is \spr\, and it is recommended that this is where all 
spreadsheet files are kept. 


If a filename is given, a .spr file of that name will be created (as above) and/or presented for editing 
depending on whether it currently exists or not. 


An extension to the filename may be provided that differs from .spr, but this is not recommended, since it 
would make identification of the file type difficult. 


Notes: 
Help on using the Spreadsheet application is available by pressing Shift-Esc. 


For further information on using the Spreadsheet application, see the Workabout User Guide. 


SHIFT Shift batch file parameters 


SHIFT procname 


Shift the replaceable parameters of a batch file one position to the left. Thus 1 becomes s0, 9 becomes 8 
etc. 


The command su1Ft alters the values of the replaceable parameters s0 to 9 inclusive by copying each 
parameter into the one prior to it. Thus the value of s1 is copied to 0, the value of s2 is copied to $1, and 
so on. This can be used to help write a batch file that does the same operation on an unspecified number of 
parameters. 


The su1rt command can also be used to construct a batch file that will accept more than 9 parameters (in 
addition to the name of the executable). If more than 9 such parameters are specified on the command 
line, those that appear after the ninth (<9) can be moved one at a time into s9 by repeated use of sHIFT. 


There is no reverse sHirT command. Once the sHirt command has been carried out, the value of 30 that 
existed before the shift is not recoverable. 


The following batch file, pstpzL.BtTF, shows how to use the sHirT command with any number of 
parameters. It deletes a list of files from a specific directory. The parameters are the directory name 
followed by any number of filenames. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


ECHO off 

REM PSIDEL.BTF deletes any number of files from a given directory. 
REM The command uses the following syntax: psidel dir filel file2 
SET fromdir=%1 

:getfile 

SHIFT 

IF "S$1"=="" GOTO end 

DEL %fromdir%\%1 /y 

GOTO getfile 

send 

SET fromdir= 

ECHO All done 


START Start a process asynchronously 


START procname 
Launch the given process and return immediately. 
Starts the first process found matching the specification in procname, (asynchronously). 


Notes: 

For a process that is an alias of another program, using start will start a process that appears to LsEe or 
LDEV as an instance of the base process. For example: all text and program editors are aliases of the Word 
application. Using start Ep1T will start an instance of Word. It will thus appear in an LPRoc or LSEG 
listing as an instance of Word. Using worp or sTarT worp is banned artificially. 


On the other hand, start sHEET will start an instance of the Sh3 application. Be aware that a process 
started with sH3 or START SH3 cannot, however, be stopped with stop sHEET. The user-visible name Sheet 
is only used to start an instance of the sh3.img program running. 


STOP Stop a process 
STOP procname [/y] 

Terminate the named process or processes matching the specification in procname. 

Processes are sent a termination message. 

If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files. 


To stop a specified instance of a number of running tasks, all with the same name, the exact process name 
must be found out and used. For example: stop job.$09 OF stop job.$14. 


For most applications, the effect of being stopped is identical to being killed, (see the kx1LL command). The 
application is interrupted immediately, with no chance being provided for data to be saved to file or to 
environment variables. However, an application can make use of the PLIB function p_onterminate to 
elect to receive an inter-process message instead of being summarily terminated. For further details, see 
the descriptions of p_pterminate and p_onterminate in the Error Handling chapter of the PLIB 
Reference manual. 


Notes: 

The stop command is designed for use with user-developed programs during the development process. 
Fully developed (and built-in Psion) applications would normally be stopped using the options available 
from their menus or from the System Screen. 


TIME Display current time 


Display the current time, in the default format, or the format specified by the most recent szETDEF or menu 
command. 


The default display format is: 


hh:mm:ss [am|pm] 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


For example 09:30:15am will be displayed if the current system time is fifteen seconds after half past nine 
in the morning. 


Use the Time and Date option on the Time menu to change the time. 
Use the setpEF command or the Formats option of the Time menu to change the format in which the time 


is displayed. 


TYPE Type a text file 
TYPE filename 
Print a text or batch file to the screen. 


The display pauses itself automatically after each screen full of text. 


VER Display software version numbers 


VER 


Display the Workabout ROM version number, the date and time that the ROM was mastered, the (EPOC) 
Operating System version number, the Shell version number and the (Text) System Interface version 
number. 


VOL Display the disk volume label etc 
VOL [drive:] 
Display information about the disk volume on the current or specified drive. 


This information includes the volume label, media type, free space in bytes and the total space in bytes. 
For RAM SSDs, the battery state is also given. 


To change the volume name use the LaBEL command. The label on a volume may also be changed when 
the volume is formatted using the rormat command. 


WAIT Wait for a process to terminate 
WAIT [procname] 
Suspend the Command Processor until the (named) process terminates. 
If a process name procname is supplied, the message: 
Waiting for "procname" 


is displayed and the Command Processor becomes non-interactive until such time as another process 
terminates. 


If no process name is given "any process" 1s substituted for "procname" and (for example) the message: 
Waiting for "any process" 

is displayed. 

To break out of this mode, press PSION+ESC. A Yes/No dialog is displayed, headed: 
Stop waiting for "procname" 

If n is pressed then a notifier stating: 
Waiting for "procname" 


is displayed, but if y is pressed then the waiting stops. 


3 WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


Commonly, this command will be used inside batch files in the following general pattern: 


<launch program asynchronously> 
<some processing> 


wait 


Example: 


START MYSERVER 

IF ERRORLEVEL QUIT 

START MY_APP 

IF NOT ERRORLEVEL WAIT MY_APP 
KILL MYSERVER /Y 


Notes: 

The nproc and nsec commands can be used to determine what processes are running. wart will only wait 
for processes started by the Command Processor (unlike stop and xru1 which hit anything with a 
matching name). Neither the proc nor the sec command can be used to determine how a process was 
started. 


For a process that is an alias of another program, using WAIT basename will wait for a process that appears 
tO LSEG Or LDEV as an instance of the base process (basename). For example: all text and program editors 
are aliases of the Word application. Using wart epit will wait for an instance of Word. Using wart worp 
is banned artificially. 


In contrast, WAIT SHEET can be used to wait for the termination of an instance of the Sh3 application that 
was started with sHEET or START SHEET. Be aware that a process started with sH3 or START SH3 cannot, 
however, be waited for with wAIT SHEET: you must Use WAIT SH3 instead. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMERS REFERENCE 


APPENDIX A 


TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 


Psion Workabout Technical Specification 


Physical characteristics 


Size 
Weight 


Screen 


Sound 


Power supply 


Internal 
Backup 


External 


Memory 


Built in 


System information 


Processor 
Operating system 


Communications 


Protocols: 


Language 


180mm x 90mm x 35mm. 
325g (including battery pack). 


Backlit (optional). 

240 x 100 pixel LCD. 

Size 62.4mm x 30mm (2.45" x 1.18"). 
Pixel pitch 0.30mm x 0.26mm 

Pixel size 0.27mm x 0.23mm. 


Piezo buzzer. 


Nickel-Cadmium rechargeable battery pack, or 2 x AA alkaline batteries. 
3V Lithium CR1620 battery. 


A Series 3 mains adaptor can be used in conjunction with the LIF Converter unit 
for main power supply and trickle charging, (see Expansion below). 
Vehicle power adaptor (24v & 12v cigarette lighter sockets), from Jan/Feb 1997. 


Psion Workabout Docking Station. 


1MB Masked ROM (for OS) and 256KB RAM or IMB RAM. 
Two SSD drives allow extra storage space on Flash/RAM SSDs, up to 8MB. 


NEC V30 running at 7.68MHz. 
EPOC. 


XMODEM, YMODEM (and ZMODEM, except in early models), giving 
compatibility with most computer communications software. 


Full script language with sample scripts allows automated log-on to 
electronic mail and other systems, and control of modems. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Expansion 


Internal 


External 


Peripherals 


Environment 


Operating temperatures 
Storage temperatures 
Operating humidity 
EMC 

Safety 

Drop 

Other 


Serial Numbers 


One internal expansion card can be installed. 

Currently an RS232/RS232 TTL serial interface and an RS232/barcode 
reader interface expansion module are available. These must be factory 
fitted. 


A combined external power supply connector and fast serial link connector 
LIF Converter unit is available. This plugs into the standard LIF socket 


External peripherals (such as a modems, printers or barcode readers) can be 
plugged into any suitable socket (where fitted). 


-20°C to 60°C.. 

-25°C to 80°C. 

0% to 90% non-condensing. 

FCC Part 15 Class B; CE Mark, E-Mark 
EN60950 

1m onto concrete on any face 

IP54 (dust proof & splash proof; some models). 


The following numbering system has been devised to cover all variants of Workabout. The code is 10 


Digit Alphanumeric: 


G_a_B_5_XX_xxxx 


G denotes that the product is a Workabout 


© can be A to Z and denotes the body colour and expansion variant: 


Letter Body 
Grey 
Grey 
Grey 
Yellow 
Yellow 


F Yellow 


moaw p> 


Variant 

Normal 

TTL + RS232 
Barcode + RS232 
Normal 

TTL + RS232 
Barcode + RS232 


B can be A to Z and denotes memory configuration: 


5 can be 1 to 9 and denotes year of manufacture: 


Letter Memory 
A 256KB 
B 512KB 
C 1MB 
D 2MB 
Digit Year 

1 1993 
2 1994 
3 1995 
4 1996 
5 1997 


A-2 


APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 


X can be 01 to 52 and denote the Week of manufacture: 
Digits Week 

Ol Starts first of Year at Monday 7a.m. 

52 Last Week of December 


XXxx can be 0000 to 9999 and is the unique numeric identifier for each PCB built in a week, giving 
10,000 permutations each week. 


Serial numbers prior to GXCXX310NM 


The RS232 port on both Barcode and TTL options uses a Maxim chip to perform the RS232 level 
conversion. This chip has a power saving feature which means that it will only power up when it detects 
RS232 signal levels on any of the inputs. This can cause a problem interfacing to devices which also 
incorporate the same Maxim chip, since neither device will power up. The Ericsson Mobidem 
incorporates this device and therefore earlier models of the Workabout had difficulty communicating with 
a Mobidem. A modification to the Barcode and TTL PCBs, disabling the power save feature, was 
introduced into production from serial number GXCXX310NM onwards. 


Psion Workabout RS232 / RS232 TTL Interface Module 
- Technical Specification 


This peripheral module provides: 
e =An RS232 (IBM PC/AT type) interface at 12V (EIA-232) levels. Connector: 9 way D-type male. 


e A TTL level RS232 interface at 5V CMOS levels together with a 5V power output at up to 200mA 
current drive capability. Connector: 9 way D-type female. 


The board can be operated at up to 19,200 Baud rate. 


The physical arrangement of the board and connectors inside the Workabout is shown below: 
RS232 RS232 


(0to5V) — (4/- 12v) 


Torson 26 way connector 
(connects the main board to 
the peripheral module) 


Flexi cable 


26 way flexi connector 


View from the front of the machine 


RS232 (AT) Cradle 
(+/-12v) (Connector) 


or RS232 TTL 


Remarks: 


e = =The Workabout can communicate to the RS232 interface or the RS232 TTL interface, but cannot talk 
to both at the same time. 


e The connectors at the top of the machine are in the default positions. 
- The D-type connector for RS232 may be fitted at the bottom, if required. 
The bottom RS232 connector and the top RS232 connector cannot both be fitted. 
- The D-type connector for RS232 TTL may be fitted at the bottom, if required. 
The bottom RS232 TTL connector and the top RS232 TTL connector cannot both be fitted. 


A-3 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


e The various input and output signals of the connectors are shown in the table below. 


Pin number RS232 TTL interface RS232 interface 
VCCEXT 


n. 
RX 
T 
G 
D 
R 
C 


4 
il, 
an u 


Q)A 


nf 


Note: Under normal conditions the signal levels into the TTL port should not exceed 5.5V DC. 
Connected devices should be designed or specified to guarantee this is not exceeded. Under fault or 
transient conditions 6V DC should not be exceeded. 


Ic 
x 
ND 
SR 
TS 
TS 
Ic 


al 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
6 
a) 
8 
9 


Psion Workabout RS232 / Barcode Interface Module 
- Technical Specification 


This peripheral module provides: 
e An RS232 (IBM PC/AT type) interface at 12V levels. Connector: 9 way D-type male. 


e A barcode wand interface, together with a 5V power output with up to 200mA current drive 
capability. Connector: 9 way D-type male (with click lock when mounted at the top of the 
machine, without click lock when mounted at the bottom) 


A Hewlett Packard microcontroller HBCR-1612 is used to read and decode the barcode external input, and 
then transmit the data as RS232 signals at up to 9,600 Baud. 


The physical arrangement of the board and connectors inside the Workabout is shown below: 


BAR CODE 
CLICKLOCK  RS232 


Torson 26 way connector 
(connects the main board to 
the peripheral module) 


Flexi cable 


26 way flexi connector 


View from the front of the machine 


BAR CODE Cradle 
or RS232 (Connector) 


Remarks: 


e = =The Workabout can communicate to the RS232 interface or the barcode interface, but cannot talk to 
both at the same time. 


e The connectors at the top of the machine are in the default positions. 

- The barcode connector may be fitted at the bottom, if required. The bottom barcode connector 
and the top barcode connector cannot both be fitted. 

- The RS232 connector may be fitted at the bottom, if required. The bottom RS232 connector and 
the top RS232 connector cannot both be fitted. 


A-4 


APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 


e = The various input and output signals of the connectors are shown in the table below: 


RSID eric 
1 


Ic 


0 mAOANI NN BW WN 


Conversion of an HC barcode reader for Workabout connection 


The details of the wiring changes needed to change the connector on a barcode reader from a six pin 
minidin for an HC to a 9 way D type for a Workabout are given below. These are the wires coming from 
the barcode reader itself to the connector that plugged into the HC. 


The wires connected to the six way minidin pins as below left need to be reconnected to the 9 way D type 
pins as below right. The signal directions given are from the HC/Workabout point of view. 


New 9 way D ype 
DSR input 

[2 [enable ———SS—~ utp 6 DTRSSCSCS~S utp | 
Ps [switch ————~‘finput_[ | noteonnested ———S—~sSCSC* 


TXD (barcode data) TXD (barcode data) 


VCCEXT (barcode power supply) | output | 9 VCCEXT (barcode power supply) 
-6_| GND (ground) [ [Tor 8 [GND Ground) | 


Important notes 


The software control for pin 2 on the old 6 way connector was never implemented, therefore extra 
program code may be required to implement the DTR function on the equivalent pin 6 in the new 9 way 
connector. 


Some barcode readers do not have all of the pins on the 6 way connected to anything, and some have 
wires that are not connected to any of the pins in the connector. Only make existing connections as above. 
Any wires or pins unconnected should remain unconnected in the 9 way connector. 


Workabout Vehicle Interface Cradle (VIC) 
- Technical Specification 


The Workabout Vehicle Interface Cradle (WVIC) is a peripheral for the Workabout that provides extra 
RS232 communications facilities for the Workabout, as well as being capable of providing both operating 
power and internal Ni-Cd battery charging current when supplied from either the main vehicle supply (at 
+12V) or an auxiliary 10V regulated supply (via the Extended 15-way RS232 port). The interface between 
the Workabout and the Cradle is through the standard Psion LIF connector in the base of the Workabout. 
The Workabout is held in place by the standard holster. The WVIC may be dashboard mounted with an 
optional mounting bracket which allows the unit to be angled for ease of use. 


Physical & Environmental 


Weight: 317g 

Size: 140mm (H) x 92mm (W) x 62mm (D) 
Temperature Range: Operation: 0° C to 50° C 

EMC EN5022, E marked 


Serial Communications 


The RS232 serial ports (one or three depending on variant) allow connection to a wide range of devices 
such as radio modem, GPS unit, printer, or input from vehicle information/management systems. 
Simultaneous connection to several such devices is possible with the three port variant. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Build options 


Two build options are available as standard products with either one or three RS232 ports and vehicle 
power input. The D-type connectors have screw locks. A total of four build variants are available: 


Vehicle Cradle build variants 


Number of Ports 12V vehicle power connector | Regulated 10V input via 15 way D type 


TRS232 Por (Sway Dyps) [| Cd CS 
3 RS232 Ports (1 x 15 way 
D-type, 2 x 9 way D-type) 


Note that the 10V power input versions must be built to order. 


Power supply 


Note that the unit accepts a 12v DC vehicle supply, and is not suitable for connection to 24v. In the case of 
a 24v or 36v vehicle, the power to the unit has to be taken from the vehicle’s 12v rail, or a suitable 
DC/DC convertor or dropper/regulator has to be used. 


The WVIC supplies enough current to charge a NiCd battery pack and run everything on the Workabout 
simultaneously, e.g. writing SSDs, backlight, powering port devices. The Workabout will not start 
draining the batteries as well as using power from the WVIC provided the supply is at least 11v DC. 


Current consumption figures for a 3 port 12V WVIC are as follows (all figs in mA): 


WVIC only a ee 
WVIC + Workabout (off), no batteries Ca Ea 
WVIC + Workabout (off) + rechargeable pack 


WVIC + Workabout (on) + rechargeable pack a dependent 
as above with VIC ports enabled and unloaded 


as above with ports all loaded 170 7 aoe on what is 
connected 


Additional current for backlight 50 


For peripherals connected to the Workabout, current consumption will depend on what the peripheral is. 


For a 10OV DC powered WVIC, 10mA should be deducted from the typical values, and 15mA should be 
deducted from the maximum values. 


3 port and vehicle power input option 

This variant of the WVIC (Psion part number 2800-0024) incorporates the following features:- 
e Power input from the vehicle 
e Surge suppression and regulation of the vehicle 12v supply to 10v DC 


e Vehicle ignition switch sensing for Workabout wake up. Power down of the Workabout is 
available under application control. 


¢ Conversion of Psion Fast Serial to RS232 
e = Trickle charge of the Workabout Ni-Cd rechargeable battery pack 
e 2RS232 ports - 9 way D-type with screw locks; 1 RS232 port - 15 way D-type with screw locks 


A-6 


APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 


Port F 


1 port and vehicle power option 


This variant of the WVIC (Psion part number 2800-0028) incorporates the following features:- 


Power input from the vehicle 
Surge suppression and regulation of the vehicle 12v supply to 10v DC 


Vehicle ignition switch sensing for Workabout wake up. Power down of the Workabout is 
available under application control. 


Conversion of Psion Fast Serial to RS232 
Trickle charge of the Workabout Ni-Cd rechargeable battery pack pack 
1 RS232 port - 15 way D-type with screw locks 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Mounting bracket 


A mounting bracket (Psion Part number 2400-0082) is available for mounting both options of the Vehicle 
Cradle. 


Vehicle power input connector 


ee Connector housing 


Pie Pin 3, vehicle -ve, ground 


*.__ Pin 2, vehicle ignition signal, 12v dc 


Pin 1, vehicle +ve, 12v de / 


Vehicle power in 


Switched 12V in 


The function of each pin is: 


1. Main 12V DC input from the vehicle power supply is internally surge suppressed, and 
regulated to provide a 10V rail which then powers the Workabout connected to the LIF. This 
10V rail is also used to drive a constant current source which supplies 83mA (nom.) to the 
BAT connection of the Workabout LIF socket, and hence to the internal Ni-Cd pack in a 
Workabout. 


2. Switched 12V in is used to provide a wake-up signal to the Workabout. When this signal 
goes high, the Workabout will receive a high level on its EXON line in the LIF connector. 
This connection is optional - see Extended 15-way RS232 serial port details. 


3. GND is the main ground return line for the vehicle power supply. 


A-8 


APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 


Conventional 9-pin RS232 serial ports 


The unit has two 9-way D-type connectors (female), which provide the same RS232 signals to the outside 
worlds as are normally found on the RS232 connector of a Workabout RS232 expansion interface, with 
the addition of a further pin, described below. The connections are: 


9 RI (but see below) 


The RI function is not directly supported by the serial port drivers on the Workabout; the state of the RI 
line can be read by the serial port driver on bit PA4 of the ASICS. 


These ports are accessed by the Workabout as standard serial devices, and are referred to as ports I and F. 
Port F is the closest of the two to the top of the unit when installed, and port I is that closest to the end of 
the unit holding the Workabout LIF connector. 


Extended 15-way RS232 serial port 


The unit has a further 15-way D-type connector at its bottom edge (adjacent to the 12V vehicle power 
connector). This provides the same functionality as the other two RS232 connectors (addressed as port C), 
as well as some extended functions, which are described below. The connections are: 


a 0) 

oO 
2S RX ata) ——OSC—~—SCSCSSC—C~—~—sRTS CSCS 
Ps S*d TX (data out) SCS SSCS TSS 


fa SSOSCSCSCSCCCS YR see Below ——SSSSC~*S 
ro] External WakeUp Gee below) [14.—S*(NCSOCSCS—S—SCS 


The RI function is not directly supported by the serial port drivers on the Workabout; the state of the RI 
line can be read by the serial port driver on bit PA4 of the ASICS. 


Pin 6, External WakeUp, is internally connected to pin 2 of the external 12V power connector, and can be 
used in the same manner to cause the Workabout to turn on when a voltage is presented on this pin. It can 
also be wired, in the users cable, to pin 8 (the DSR line) to provide a wake-up on reception of a DSR 
signal - this is the normal arrangement for Psion products with external wake-up signals. It follows that a 
connection from pin 6 to pin 8 should not be made at the same time as a connection to pin 2 of the 
external 12V input connector- this would result in the Workabout receiving wake up events at the wrong 
time, and could result in damage to the equipment connected to this port (though not to the VIC itself). 


Vin expects a 250mA, 10V, 10% regulated positive DC voltage , and can be used to power the VIC and 
Workabout, as well as supplying charging current to the internal Ni-Cd pack. Internal circuitry allows for 
both this supply and the 12V vehicle supply to be present at the same time, although only one of them is 
necessary. 


Psion LIF Connector 


The Psion LIF connector details are covered in Appendix A - Technical Specifications of the HC 
Programmers Reference manual. 


A-9 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Psion Workabout Docking Station 
- Technical Specification 


Introduction 


The Workabout Docking Station is designed to provide a multi-function mounting point for the Psion 
Workabout corporate hand held computer, (referred to in this technical specification as the computer). 


The Docking Station has the following features: 
e Battery management, including fast charge of batteries (fast model) 
e Small footprint 
e Reliable connection between the Psion and the docking station using the LIF connector 
e¢ Option for in-vehicle use 


e FCC, static and safety approval 


Variants 
A total of four build options available: 
1. Workabout fast charge 
2. Workabout trickle charge 
Note: Both the above variants are also available with vehicle support circuitry on board. 


This gives a total of 4 possible build variants. 


Identification 
PCB number and revision marked on PCB is common for all variants. 
The main visual differences that distinguish The Workabout fast charger from the HC fast charger are: 


Workabout fast charger: 2 pin 1.3mm DC jack fitted 
HC fast charger: 4 pin bulky power supply socket fitted 


Docking Station Unit 

Main features 

The Docking Station Unit has the following features: 
e Fast charging of the computer internal battery pack, (fast model). 
e Spare battery pack fast charging. 
e Stable desktop mounting. 


e Accepts some of the HC expansion modules which communicate via the Psion Fast Serial (PFS) 
protocol. These are accessible by any Workabout computer inserted into the Docking Station. See 
the table Psion HC build variant and accessories matrix at the end of Appendix A - Technical 
Specifications in the HC Programmers Reference manual for details. 


e Data transfer from the computer, (with the appropriate expansion module and software driver). 
e Simultaneous battery charging and data transfer, (if the Psion is not monitoring battery status). 
e Wall mounting and bulk head fitting designed in. 


e The battery compartment is factory configured to accept as standard the Workabout rechargeable 
battery pack. 


A-10 


APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 


Status indicators 
There are several LEDs on the front of the charger unit to indicate the following: 
e¢ Communications/data transfer 
e §=© Yellow during data transfer 
e Power status-On/Off 
¢ Green when charger is connected to mains power 
e¢ Main computer battery charging status (Fast model only, see Battery Status LED conditions) 
e Spare battery charging status (Fast model only, see Battery Status LED conditions) 
Battery charging 
The Docking Station has two charging modes: 
e = Normal 


e Software controlled. See the Cradle and Docking Station chapter in the I/O Devices Reference 
manual. 


If both the computer and the spare battery are fitted when the docking station is connected to mains 
power, charging priority will go to the spare battery. If the docking station is already connected to mains 
power , charging priority will go to whichever battery was plugged in first. 


The computer main battery can be discharged before charging commences. This feature is controlled from 
the computer. 


Note that the Slow Charge variant of the Docking station does not have a Battery Status LED. This is 
because it has only one status - charging. 


Battery Status LED conditions 


LED indication Battery status 


Flashing red Preparation for fast charging (two seconds) or 
Battery condition outside specified range - trickle charging or 


For the battery pack inside the Psion: discharging under software 
control or 


Error 


Steady red Charging 
Steady green Charged 


Flashing red/green Waiting or 


For the battery pack inside the Psion: discharging under software 
control, while the spare is fast charging 


Charging both battery packs 


If a spare battery is inserted into the Docking Station whilst a battery pack inside the Psion is being 
charged, charging of the spare pack will begin after the internal battery pack has been charged. 


If a Psion computer is inserted into the Docking Station whilst a spare battery pack is being charged, 
charging of the battery inside the Psion will begin after the spare pack has been charged. 


If both the Psion and the spare battery pack are inserted into the Docking Station at the same time, (or 
both are in the Docking Station prior to it being connected to the mains), the packs will not be charged 
simultaneously. In the case of the Fast Charge variant of the Docking Station their respective LEDs will 
flash red for about two seconds, until the charger decides which to battery pack to charge. The LED for 
the one charging then comes on red, and the other one's LED starts flashing red/green as it is waiting to 
be charged. For both Docking station variants the spare battery pack will normally be charged first. 


A-11 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Battery Fast Charging conditions 

The Fast Charge variant of the Docking Station can Fast Charge in the following conditions: 
Within the temperature range: 5 to 45 °C 

Voltage of the battery pack: 1.8 to 3.8V DC for the Workabout. 


If the battery pack temperature or voltage is outside the specified range, the charger trickle charges until 
the condition is within the allowable range, after which it will fast charge. A new or fully discharged 
battery pack (that has been left on for a long time) may have a voltage below the minimum for Fast 
Charging. 


If the battery temperature is within the allowable range and the battery status LED continues to flash red it 
is likely that the battery pack is faulty. 


Discharging prior to charging & capacity measurement 


The Psion's internal battery pack may be discharged, under software control, prior to charging. This is not 
possible with the spare battery pack. 


It is possible to charge the spare battery pack whilst discharging the main battery pack in the Psion. 


Software controlled discharging of the battery pack leaves the voltage above the allowable minimum for 
subsequent Fast Charging. 


Charging will automatically commence after the battery is discharged. 


Under software control it is also possible to measure the actual capacity or the remaining capacity of the 
battery pack inside the Psion computer. The discharging current for the Workabout charger is 
290mA + 5%. 


Fast Charging times 


A fully discharged battery pack takes approximately one hour to Fast Charge to 90-95% of its maximum 
capacity. If left in the Docking Station after this time it will be "topped-up" to its maximum capacity after 
a further two hours. 


Slow Charging times 


A fully discharged battery pack takes approximately 14 to 16 hours to Slow Charge to 100% of its 
maximum capacity. 


Charging limitations 


The Fast Charge and Slow Charge facilities only support the main Computer battery, not the battery of 
any attached peripheral. The HC Printer however, contains its own Quick Charge circuitry and may 
charge simultaneously under software control. 


LIF Mounting Kit 


The LIF mounting kit allows a LIF connector on the end of a cable to be fitted to a holster. 


The holster itself is a plastic moulding into which the computer can be inserted. This incorporates a 
positive latching mechanism which holds the computer securely in place. The holster does not include any 
electronics. 


The Clip cover and the 2 short screws that are fitted as standard to the LIF connector will need to be 
replaced with the blank cover and the 2 long screws supplied with the kit. 


Workabout Holster with Socket Housing 


The kit for the Workabout Computer consists of:- 
e HC holster 

e LIF connector support 

e LiF connector blank front cover 


e 2screws - type K2.2 x 12 mm CSK ( not shown) 


A-12 


APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 


Workabout Docking Station 


This is a Fast Charger with serial data communication capabilities supplied with a factory fitted 
Workabout holster, also known as a Workabout Docking Station. The cable from the hardware board to 
the LIF connector is protected by an over-moulded rubber grommet. 


A 12v 1 amp unregulated power supply is supplied with the docking station. 


Workabout Docking Station : UK Part 
Number 1801-0001-01 


Note: Euro part number 1801-0004-01, US part 
number 1801-0005-01 


12V 1 amp unregulated Power Supply : UK Part Number 2300-0197-01 
TL 


— 


~ ~S 


Note: Euro part number 2300-0210-01, US part number 2300-0211-01 


A-13 


APPENDIX B 


DIFFERENCES BETWEEN 
THE HC COMMAND PROCESSOR, 
THE WORKABOUT COMMAND PROCESSOR 


AND MS-DOS 


Introduction 
About this appendix 


This appendix compares the Psion HC Command Processor commands with the commands of the 
Workabout Command Processor and the MS-DOS Command Processor. It is provided for two purposes: 


e So that developers may easily convert batch programs written for the Psion HC into batch 
programs that will run on the Workabout. 


e So that developers familiar with writing MS-DOS batch programs may easily find the similarities 
and differences relating to writing batch programs for the Psion HC and the Workabout. 


It is not the purpose of this appendix to give the full syntax of MS-DOS commands, and <etc> may be 
used to indicate an incomplete syntax statement, (refer to your MS-DOS manual or MS-DOS Help). 
Furthermore MS-DOS is available in many versions. At the time of writing the current version was 6.2. 
Commands that are only for use in MS-DOS config.sys files have not been included if they have no 
relevance to Psion machines. 


Help 


Help about commands, (and other features of the machine), is not available from the system on the Psion 
HC, but is on the Workabout. Help is also available in current versions of MS-DOS. 


Commands 


Shortened versions of commands are not available on the Workabout (or in MS-DOS). For example, com 
is not an acceptable shortened form of commanp. The Workabout Command Processor thus differs from 
the Psion HC Command Processor which does allow command abbreviations. Where the full length HC 
command is longer than the Workabout command the extra HC characters are enclosed in braces, {}, in 
the heading. Optional characters for an HC command are enclosed in square brackets, [], in the syntax 
statement. 


B-1 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


File and directory names 


wom 


Psion computers allow the use, for example, of the "+" character in filenames, which is not allowed in 
MS-DOS, (see the copy command). 


On the Workabout a trailing backslash can generally be used to clarify that a name is a directory rather 
than a file, whereas on an HC, (as in DOS), a parsing error may occur. For example, if the current drive is 
m: and the current directory is \img\ the command: 


md tools\ 

will successfully create a directory on the Workabout, but not on the HC. 

In all, fully specified Psion filenames (£ilespec) are regarded as having five parts: 
1. A filing system (e.g. loc:: or rem::). 

A drive or device (e.g. b:). 

A path (e.g. \ or \accounts\jan\). 

A filename (e.g. job). 


Oi Ri ee, TS 


An extension (e.g. .img). 
In MS-DOS the file specification syntax \\server\ is analogous to the Psion filing system component. 


Wildcards 


The use of * differs from its use in DOS in that, on the HC and the Workabout, it is possible to use, for 
example: 


at bi ® 


to select all files whose file name starts with a and ends with b. In DOS, a*b.* has the same effect as 


ar. *. 


Batch files 


Batch files may only be run synchronously on the Workabout, (as in DOS), or on an HC. On the HC 
preceding the name of the batch file by @ is required, but not on the Workabout. In Workabout batch files 
@ suppresses echo, just like in DOS. 


On the Workabout batch files must have the extension .btf, (just as DOS batch files must have the 
extension .bat), but on the HC other extensions (though not advisable) are allowed. The Workabout stores 
batch files, by default, in a \bif\ directory. The HC has no default directory for batch files, (neither do DOS 
machines). 


On the HC it is not possible to pass parameters to a batch file, but on the Workabout you can pass as many 
parameters as will fit on the command line, (like DOS). Workabout batch files can also use IF...GOTO... 
constructs, unlike HC batch files, (but like DOS ones). 


Default directory structure 


On the Workabout there is a fixed default directory structure, into which files with specific extensions are 
placed. This directory structure is searched automatically for program files if full details are not provided 
of path and filename extension. The HC does not have a default directory structure, (neither do DOS 
machines). 


Launching programs 


The Workabout looks for filenames in the following order of extensions, if no extension is given: 


1. .img 
2. .app 
3. .opo 
4. .opa 
5. .btf 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


The order of searching on the Workabout is described in detail in the chapter The Workabout Command 
Processor. 


The HC, on the other hand, looks for filenames in the following order of extensions, if no extension is 
given: 


1. .opo 
2. .img 
3. .app 


The order of searching on the HC is described in detail in the chapter The HC Command Shell in the 
HC Programmers Reference manual. 


DOS machines do not have fixed search orders, and search paths must be specified using the paTH 
command. 


Memory resident programs 


The Workabout (or any other Psion SIBO machine) can have programs running asynchronously in the 
background, (see the HC Programmers Reference, Series 3 Programmers Reference and Workabout 
Programmers Reference manuals). An example of this is the LINK program. In contrast MS-DOS has 
Terminate and Stay Resident programs (TSRs) which are installed into memory (usually on boot up) but 
cannot run until control is passed to them, (MS-DOS is not multi-tasking). 


Alphabetical listing 


APPEND Append directories to current data path 


HC Command Processor 
Not supported. 
Workabout Command Processor 


Applications each have their own preferred path for data files. See the Default location of files section of 
the chapter The Workabout Command Processor in the Workabout Programmers Reference manual. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


APPEND <etc> 


Enables programs to open data files in specified directories as if the files were in the current directory. 


ATTRIB{UTE} Set or clear file attributes 


Note that the a flag on the Workabout or PC is exactly the same as the m flag on the Psion HC. 


HC Command Processor 


ATT[RIBUTE] [system::][drive:][path]filename.extension [+h|-h] [+s|-s] [+m|-m] [+r]-r] 
Sets or resets the hidden (n), system (s), modified (m) and/or read-only (xr) attributes of a file. 

A filename must be given. If all four attributes are omitted nothing will happen. 

The command does not accept a wild card specification. 


Workabout Command Processor 


ATTRIB [system::][drive:] [path] [filename] [.extension] [+h|-h] [+s|-s] [+a]-a] [+r|-r] 
Sets or resets the hidden (nh), system (s), archive (a) and/or read-only (r) attributes of a file. 


If all four attributes are omitted, attrib displays the existing settings. 
If the filename is also omitted then the attributes of all files in the current (or specified) path are 
displayed. 


The command does accept a wild card specification. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
ATTRIB [drive:][path]filename.extension [+h|-h] [+s|-s] [+a]-a]l [+r|-r] [/s] 


Sets or resets the hidden (hn), system (s), archive (a) and/or read-only (r) attributes of a file. 
The /s switch processes the current directory and all related subdirectories. 


If all four attributes are omitted, attrib displays the existing settings. 
If the filename and attributes are omitted then the attributes of the specified directory only are displayed. 
If both path and filename are omitted the attributes of all files in the current directory are displayed. 


The command does accept a wild card specification. 


AUTO Set time to auto-switch-off 
HC Command Processor 
AUT[O] seconds 


Sets the time for auto-switch-off. 


Workabout Command Processor 


Implemented via sETDEF. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. 


BACKLIGHT Set backlight time-out 
HC Command Processor 


BACK[LIGHT] [time] 


Sets the backlight auto-time-out to time, or if time is omitted, displays the current setting (in 
hexadecimal). 


Workabout Command Processor 
Implemented via sETDEF, (or system interface menus). 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


Some screen savers provide similar functionality. 


BACKUP Backup files 


HC Command Processor 

Files are backed up to a PC using MCLINK, RCom or PsiWin. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Files are backed up to a PC using MCLINK, RCom or PsiWin. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


BACKUP <etc> 
Backs up files from one disk to another, (MS-DOS versions 2.0 to 5.0). 


BATCHK Start battery check program 
HC Command Processor 
BATCHK interval 


Starts the program rom::batchk (if found), which monitors the voltages of the main and backup batteries. 


Workabout Command Processor 
Replaced by Shift-Ctrl-B. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


BATTERY Specify battery type 


HC Command Processor 

BAT[TERY] type 

Specifies which type of main battery is installed. 
Workabout Command Processor 
Replaced by Shift-Ctrl-B. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

Not supported. 


BREAK Control extended CTRL-C checking 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. This is not relevant to Psion machines. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. This is not relevant to Psion machines. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


BREAK [ON|OFF] 


Sets or clears extended CTRL-C checking. 


CALC Run the calculator application 
External command. 

HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

[START] CALC 

Run the Calculator application, Calc. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not supported, although calculator programs are available. 


CALL Call a batch file from inside another batch file 


Call a batch file from inside another batch file. 

HC Command Processor 

No command is required. The filename prefixed with an @, is all that is needed. 
@[system::] [drive:] [path]batchfile[.extension] 

Psion HC batch files always return to any calling batch file on completion. 
Workabout Command Processor 

[CALL ] [system::][drive:][path]batchfile[.extension] [batch-parameters] 


Omitting the caLL command and Just using the file specification "chains" the named batch file, and it then 
does not return to the calling batch file on completion. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
[CALL ] [drive:][path]batchfile [batch-parameters] 


Omitting the caLL command and Just using the file specification "chains" the named batch file, and 
control then does not return to the calling batch file on completion. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


CD Display or alter current directory 


Changes to a different path, or (if path is omitted) displays the current path. This is exactly the same as 
CHDIR. 


HC Command Processor 

CD [drive:] [path] 

Use cb [drive:]\ to change to the root directory of a drive. 

The HC maintains one machine-wide path. 

Workabout Command Processor 

CD [drive:] [path] 

Use cb [drive:]\ to change to the root directory of a drive. 

The Workabout maintains one path per local drive, plus a "current drive". To change drive use: 
drive: 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

CD [drive:] [path] or 

CD [..] to change to the parent directory 

Use cb [drive:]\ to change to the root directory of a drive. 

MS-DOS maintains one path per drive, plus a "current drive". To change drive use: 


drive: 


CHCP Display or change character set 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Psion-K can be used to switch the character set available from the keyboard. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

CHCP [nnn] 


Displays or changes the active character set. 


CHDIR Display or alter current directory 


Changes to a different path, or (if path is omitted) displays the current path. This is exactly the same as 
CD. 


HC Command Processor 

The cp command is used instead. 

Workabout Command Processor 

CHDIR [drive:] [path] 

Use cHDIR [drive:]\ to change to the root directory of a drive. 

The Workabout maintains one path per local drive, plus a "current drive". To change drive use: 
drive: 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

CHDIR [drive:][path] or 

CHDIR [..] to change to the parent directory 

Use cHDIR [drive:]\ to change to the root directory of a drive. 

MS-DOS maintains one path per drive, plus a "current drive". To change drive use: 


drive: 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


CHKDSK Check or fix disk 


HC Command Processor 
This is not relevant to HC machines. 
Workabout Command Processor 


The "Disk info" option of the "Info" menu in the System Screen gives information such as: the disk's 
label, its capacity, the amount of used space and the amount of free space. The vo, command also returns 
this information. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


CHKDSK <etc> 


Checks and displays disk status, or may be used to fix a disk. 


CHOICE Prompt user for choice 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


CHOICE <etc> 


Prompts the user to make a choice in batch programs. MS-DOS 6.0 onwards. 


CLS Clear the screen 


Clears the screen, leaving the > prompt and cursor in the top left corner. 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

CLS 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


CLS 


COMMAND Start another command processor instance 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. See the HC Programmers Reference manual. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not required, because the Command Processor can start many processes asynchronously. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

COMMAND <etc> 


Starts another instance of the command processor (shell). 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


COMMS Run the communications application 


External command. 

HC Command Processor 

Not available. 

Workabout Command Processor 

[START] COMMS [system::] [drive:] [path] [filename[.extension] ] 
Run the communications application, Comms. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


The INTERLNK command does similar things, as do many other proprietary programs. 


COMP Compare two files 
HC Command Processor 

Not available. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not available. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

COMP <etc> 


Compares two files and lists the differences between them. External command, up to MS-DOS 5, (c.f. rc 
in MS-DOS 6 onwards). 


CONFIG Set language file 


HC Command Processor 

CON[FIG] filename 

Changes the language data file to that specified. If £i1ename is omitted, the effect is to revert to the file 
sys$ctry.cfo. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Implemented via the seTtpEr command, (or the system interface menus). 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not supported. The country command in config.sys does similar things. 


COPY Copy file(s) 


Copies one or more files, possibly changing their names in the process. 
HC Command Processor 
COP[Y] source destination 


The source and dest ination file specifications can consist of a system and double colon, drive letter and 
colon, a directory name, a filename, or a combination of these. 


Several files cannot be combined into one file by using wildcards. 
Workabout Command Processor 
COPY source destination [/s] [/y] 


The source and dest ination file specifications can consist of a system and double colon, drive letter and 
colon, a directory name, a filename, or a combination of these. 


The /s switch allows copying of subdirectories. 
The /y switch allows overwriting without confirmation, (as in MS-DOS 6.xx). 


Several files cannot be combined into one file by using wildcards. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


coPY [/Y|/-¥Y] [/A|/B] source [/A|/B] [+ source [/A|/B] [+...]][destination [/A|/B]] [/V] 


The source and dest ination file specifications can consist of a drive letter and colon, a directory name, a 
filename, or a combination of these. 


By using wildcards or the [+ source [/A|/B] [+...]] Syntax, several files can be combined into one 
file. 


COUNTRY Set country 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. The conric command does similar things. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. The setpEF command sets which language file to use. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


COUNTRY=nnn <etc> 


Sets country-specific conventions in config.sys. Date and time formats are set in the country file. 


CTTY Change terminal device 
HC Command Processor 

Use the Psion SIBO Debugger, which provides similar functionality. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Use the Psion SIBO Debugger, which provides similar functionality. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


CTTY device 


Change terminal device. 


D Brief directory listing 
HC Command Processor 
D [/p] [filespec] 


Lists specified filenames in a directory, without any additional information except for the total size and 
the total number of bytes free on the current device. 


Workabout Command Processor 
The pir command has a switch (/») for bare output of filenames only. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


The ptr command has many switches to format directory listing output. 


DATA Run the database application 


External command. 

HC Command Processor 

Not available. 

Workabout Command Processor 

[START] DATA [system::] [drive:] [path] [filename[.extension] ] 
Run the database application, Data. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not available, though there are many proprietary programs on the market. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


DATE Display date [and time] 


HC Command Processor 


DAT IE] 

Displays the current date and time, in the format: 
day/d[d]/mth/yyyy hh:mm:ss 

For example: 
Thu/12/O0ct/1995 16:59:59 


will be displayed if the current system date and time is Thursday 12 October 1995, and it is one second 
before five o'clock in the afternoon. 


If the day of the month has only a single digit, no leading zero is displayed. One minute past noon on the 
first day of January 1996 is displayed as: 


Mon/1/Jan/1996 12:01:00 
The date must be set with serpat. 


Workabout Command Processor 


DATE 


Displays the current date in the default format, or the format specified by the most recent sETDEF or menu 
command. 


The default display format is: 
dd/mm/yy 
For example 12/10/95 will be displayed if the current system date is 12 October 1995. 


If the day of the month or the month number itself has only a single digit, a leading zero is displayed. The 
first day of January 1996 is displayed as: 


01/01/96 
The date must be set from the menus. See Time for displaying the system time. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


DATE [mm-dd-yy] 


Displays the current date, and prompts for it to be changed. Otherwise sets the date. 


DBLSPACE Compress a disk 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. This is not relevant to Psion computers. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. This is not relevant to Psion computers. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


DBLSPACE 


Compresses data on hard or floppy disks. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


DEBUG 


HC Command Processor 

The Psion SIBO debugger offers similar functionality. 
Workabout Command Processor 

The Psion SIBO debugger offers similar functionality. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


DEBUG 


Starts the debug program to allow debugging of executable files. 


DEFRAG 


HC Command Processor 


Start the debug program 


Optimise files on a disk 


Use the compress command in Psion RCom or a "Compress..." option in PsiWin. 


Workabout Command Processor 


Use the compress command in Psion RCom or a "Compress..." option in PsiWin. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


DEFRAG <etc> 


Reorganises files on a disk to optimise disk performance. 


DEL{ETE} 


Deletes the specified file or files. 

HC Command Processor 
DEL[ETE] filespec 

Workabout Command Processor 
DEL filespec [/s] [/y] 

or 

ERASE filespec [/s] [/y] 


If the /s flag is used, all subdirectories and files are deleted. 


Delete file(s) 


If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files. 
Note that, like in MS-DOS, confirmation is not asked for if a single file is being deleted. Unless /y is 
used, confirmation is always asked for if all files in a directory are being deleted. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
DEL filespec [/p] 
or 


ERASE filespec [/p] 


If the /p flag is used, prompts for confirmation before deleting a specific file. 


The DELTREE command is used to delete subdirectories and their files. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


DELTREE Delete a directory, subdirectories and files 
HC Command Processor 
Not available. 
Workabout Command Processor 
Use: 
DEL filespec /s 
or 
ERASE filespec /s 
MS-DOS Command Processor 
DELTREE <etc> 


Deletes a specified directory and all subdirectories and files. 


DEVICE List devices 


The Psion HC command performs a completely different function to the MS-DOS command. 
HC Command Processor 

DEV[ICE] [filespec] 

Lists all devices ("drives") in the filing system specified by filespec. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Re[placed by LupEv and LppEv. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

Loads a device driver. This is a config.sys command. 

DEVICE filespec <etc> 


However the mem command provides similar functionality. 


DIR Full directory listing 


Lists all the specified files in a directory, together with their sizes, the time and date of their last 
modification, and their attributes. 


HC Command Processor 

DIR [/p] [filespec] 

The /p flag causes the display to pause at the end of each screen. 
Workabout Command Processor 

DIR [drive:] [path] [filespec] [/s] [/b] 


The listing pauses automatically after each screen of information, prompting the user to press enter to 
continue, (except in batch files). 


The /s flag causes all subdirectories to be listed as well. 
The /b flag causes bare output to be used, (filenames only). 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


DIR [drive:] [path] [filespec] <etc> 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


DISKCOMP Compare two floppy disks 


HC Command Processor 


Not available. 


Workabout Command Processor 


Not available. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


DISKCOMP <etc> 


Compares two floppy disks. 


DISKCOPY Copy a floppy disk 


HC Command Processor 
Not available. 
Workabout Command Processor 


Use copy *.* /s (note that this does not format the target disk). 
Also available via a System Screen menu option for SSDs. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
DISKCOPY <etc> 


Copies a floppy disk. The target disk is formatted first. 


DOSKEY Load/start DOSKEY program 


HC Command Processor 

Not available. 

Workabout Command Processor 
This functionality is built-in. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 
DOSKEY [<etc>] 


Load/start the DOSKEY program. 


DOSSHELL Load DOSSHELL graphical interface 


HC Command Processor 
Not available. 
Workabout Command Processor 


Not available. The System Screen carries out similar functions to the MS-DOS Shell. 
This may be loaded directly from the Startup Shell, or by entering: 


start sysS$gsys 
in the Command Processor. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


DOSSHELL <etc> 


Loads the MS-DOS Shell graphical interface. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


ECHO Display message, set or display echo mode 
Displays the message text, or sets the echo mode in batch files, or displays the current echo mode. 

HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

ECHO [[text]|[ON | OFF]] 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


ECHO [[text]|[ON | OFF]] 


EDIT Run file editor 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

[START] EDIT [system::] [drive:] [path] [filename] [.extension] 


Runs the Psion file editor, which also translates and runs programs as determined by the source file 
extension. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
EDIT <etc> 


Runs the MS-DOS text file editor. This is an external command. 


EMM386 Enable expanded memory 
HC Command Processor 

This is not relevant to Psion computers. 

Workabout Command Processor 

This is not relevant to Psion computers. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

EMM386 <etc> 


Enable EMM386 expanded memory. 


ENV Display, set or delete environment variable 
HC Command Processor 

ENV [[var[=[value]]]|[varspec]] 

Displays or sets the value of environment variables, or deletes them. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. 

The set command, which is exactly equivalent, must be used instead. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not available. The set command is used instead. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


ERASE Delete file(s) 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

DEL[ETE] must be used instead. 


Workabout Command Processor 


ERASE [drive:] [path] filespec [/s] [/y] 
Deletes the specified file or files. 
The command DEL filespec [/s] [/y] is exactly the same as ERASE. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


ERASE [drive:] [path] filespec [/p] 


Deletes the specified file or files. 


The command DEL filespec [/p] is exactly the same as ERASE. 


ERRLEVEL Display error level 


Display the error level. 

HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 
ERRLEVEL 

Display the error level state (TRUE or FALSE). 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

Not supported. 


ERRORLEVEL Error level value 


ERRORLEVEL 18 not a command. It is the status of the last command that was executed. 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 


ERRORLEVEL 


Holds the error level value, (it is a Boolean value, TRuE or FALSE). Unlike DOS, Command Processor 
commands set ERRORLEVEL as applicable. The general use of ERRORLEVEL is in an IF statement: 


IF [NOT] ERRORLEVEL command 


Thus, for example, within a batch file, you can test for a directory, as follows: 


CHDIR \INC 
IF ERRORLEVEL MD \INC 
CHDIR \INC 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


ERRORLEVEL 
Holds the error level number (an integer in the range 0 to 255). An example of its use is: 


IF [NOT] ERRORLEVEL number command 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


EXIT Exit level 


HC Command Processor 


EXI[T] 


Exits the Command Shell. May be used to terminate second copies of the Command Shell that are no 
longer required. 


If the exrT command is typed into the first copy of the Command Shell, the HC will automatically 
re-launch a shell process, as explained in the Introduction to the HC chapter of the HC User Reference 
manual. 


If the rxrT command is found in a batch file, all that happens is that the batch file is terminated, and 
control passes back to the previous level of batch file (or to the command line). See the Workabout 
Command Processor gurt command. 


Workabout Command Processor 
EXIT 
Present a dialog offering options to terminate the Command Processor or cancel the command. 


On confirmation of an ExT command typed directly into the Command Processor (or of the selection of 
the Exit option from the Special menu) the Command Processor is terminated. If there is no other task 
running on the machine, the Workabout will then automatically bring the Startup Shell process to 
foreground, as explained in the chapter Introduction to the Workabout. If one or more other tasks are 
running, the machine will switch tasks to whichever running application was last used. 


If the rxrT command is executed from a (nested) batch file, all levels of batch processing are terminated 
immediately and the confirmation dialog presented. On confirming the rx1tT command, the Command 
Processor terminates in the same way as when ex1T is typed directly into the Command Processor. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


EXIT 
Terminates the Command Processor. 


If the extT command is found in a batch file, all levels of batch processing are terminated. The Command 
Processor terminates in the same way as when ex1T Is typed directly into the Command Processor. 


EXPAND Expand a compressed file 


HC Command Processor 


Not available. 


Workabout Command Processor 


Not available. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


EXPAND <etc> 


Expand a compressed file. 


FASTHELP Get summary Help on command syntax 
HC Command Processor 

Not available. 

Workabout Command Processor 


Not available. Use HELP [command] 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
FASTHELP [command] 

or 

[command] /? 


Gets summary Help as a listing of (all) command(s) and syntax. 
MS-DOS 6 onwards, (it is the same as HELP in MS-DOS 5) 


FASTOPEN Start FASTOPEN program 


HC Command Processor 

Not available. This is not relevant to Psion computers. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Not available. This is not relevant to Psion computers. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


FASTOPEN <etc> 


Starts the FASTOPEN program. 


FC Compare two files 
HC Command Processor 

Not available. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not available. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


FC <etc> 


Compares two files and lists the differences between them. External command, MS-DOS 6 onwards, (c.f. 
comp in MS-DOS 5). 


FCBS Specify number of file control blocks 
HC Command Processor 

Not available. This is not relevant to SIBO machines. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not available. This is not relevant to SIBO machines. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


FCBS <etc> 


Specifies the number of file control blocks (FCBs) that can be open at any one time. Used in config.sys 
files only. 


FDISK Partition a hard disk 
HC Command Processor 

Not available. This is not relevant to SIBO machines. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not available. This is not relevant to SIBO machines. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


FDISK <etc> 


Starts the MS-DOS FDISK program to partition a hard disk. This is an external command. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


FILES List open files/Specify number of files accessible 
This command is completely different for MS-DOS and SIBO machines. 


HC Command Processor 


Not available. 


Workabout Command Processor 


FILES drive: 
Returns the names of all open files on the specified drive. 
The program using each file, the process number and the full filename including the path are given. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


FILES=x 
Specifies the number of files MS-DOS can access at one time. Used in config.sys files only. 


Some networks provide a functionality similar to the Workabout r1Lzes command. 


FIND Find a text string in a file or files 
HC Command Processor 

Not available. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


FIND <etc> 


Searches for a specified text string in a file or files. 


FOR Run a command for the files in a set 
Run a command for each file in a specified set of files. 

HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 


Workabout Command Processor 


FOR %[%]variable IN (set) DO command [parameters] 
The extra % is needed in batch programs. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


FOR %[%]variable IN (set) DO command [parameters] 


The extra s is needed in batch programs. 


FORMAT Format device 


Formats a disk in the specified drive. 
The disk may be labelled with a volume name (label), volname 


HC Command Processor 
FOR[MAT] [drive:] [volname] 
Workabout Command Processor 
FORMAT [drive:] [volname] 


If the label voiname is not specified, any existing label is retained. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
FORMAT <etc> 


If the label is not specified, any existing label is deleted. 


FREE Display free memory 
HC Command Processor 

FRE [E] 

Displays the amount of free RAM in kilobytes. 

Workabout Command Processor 

The mem command performs a similar function. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


The mem command performs a similar function. 


GOTO Jump to label in batch file 


Jump to the label 1abe1 in a batch file. A label in a batch file occurs at the start of a line (preceded by a 
colon, :). It is not the same thing as the label mentioned in the rormat and LaBEL command descriptions. 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 
GOTO label 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


GOTO label 


GRAPHICS Load program to allow printing of colour screen 
HC Command Processor 

Not available. The HC has black and white graphics by default. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not available. The Workabout has black, grey and white graphics by default. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

GRAPHICS <etc> 


Loads a program to allow the printing of information displayed on a colour screen. Used in config. sys files 
only. 


HELP List commands or get help 


List commands or get help on a specific command. 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

HELP [command] 

MS-DOS Command Processor 


HELP [command] 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


IF Run command conditionally 


A command is run depending on one of three possible specified conditions. See also ERRORLEVEL. 

HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

IF [not] {ERRORLEVEL | stringl==string2 | EXIST filespec} command [command_parameters] 


The file specification can consist of a system and double colon, drive letter and colon, a directory name, a 
filename, or a combination of these. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


IF [not] {ERRORLEVEL nn | stringl==string2 | EXIST [[drive:]path]filename} command 


INSTALL Install memory resident program 


HC Command Processor 


Not supported. SIBO computers are multi-tasking, so can have many programs running at the same time. 
Use sprogname in a batch file for a similar effect to MS-DOS rnstatt. 


Workabout Command Processor 


Not supported. SIBO computers are multi-tasking, so can have many programs running at the same time. 
Use the start command in a batch file for a similar same effect to MS-DOS tnstatt. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


INSTALL [drive:][path]filename [command-parameters] 


Installs a memory resident program when MS-DOS is started up. Can only be used in config.sys files. 


INTERLNK Connect two computers to share resources 


HC Command Processor 
Use tink and MCLINK or RCom, or PsiWin. 


Workabout Command Processor 
Use tink and MCLINK or RCom, or PsiWin. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


INTERLNK [client[:]=[server][:]] 


Connects two computers using Interlink. MS-DOS 6.0 onwards. 


INTERSVR Start the Interlink server 


HC Command Processor 

Use tink and MCLINK or RCom, or PsiWin. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Use tinx and MCLINK or RCom, or PsiWin. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 
INTERSVR <etc> 


Starts the Interlink server. MS-DOS 6.0 onwards. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


KEYB Configure keyboard for language 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Use setpEF to set the keyboard, (or the system interface menu option). 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


KEYB <etc> 


Configures the keyboard for a particular language. 


KILL Kill a process 
Kills the first process found matching the specification in procname. Emergency use only. See stop. 

HC Command Processor 

KIL[L] procname 

Workabout Command Processor 

KILL procname [/y] 

If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

Not supported. 


LABEL Add/alter disk volume label 


Creates, changes or deletes the label on an SSD/disk in the specified drive, (using the label name). 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

LABEL [drive:] [name] 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


LABEL [drive:] [name] 
LASTDRIVE Specify maximum number of drives 
LDEV List device drivers 


Lists all specified logical and physical device drivers. 

HC Command Processor 

LDEV [device_spec] 

Workabout Command Processor 

There are separate commands to list logical and physical device drivers, LLpDEV and LPDEV. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not supported. The mem command provides a similar function. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


LH Load program into upper memory 
HC Command Processor 

Not relevant to SIBO machines. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not relevant to SIBO machines. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


LH <etc> 


Load a program into the upper memory area, or into a specified region or regions of upper memory. This 
is the same as LOADHIGH. 


LLDEV List logical device drivers 
Lists all specified logical device drivers. 

HC Command Processor 

The tpEv command lists both physical and logical device drivers. 

Workabout Command Processor 

LLDEV [device_spec] 

The list includes all ROM-resident device drivers, as well as external ones that are currently loaded. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not supported. The mem command provides a similar function. 


LOADFIX Load and run program above first 64K block 
HC Command Processor 

Not relevant to SIBO machines. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not relevant to SIBO machines. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


LOADFIX <etc> 


Loads a program into memory above the first 64KB block of conventional memory, and runs it. 


LOADHIGH Load program into upper memory 
HC Command Processor 

Not relevant to SIBO machines. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not relevant to SIBO machines. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


LOADHIGH <etc> 


Loads a program into the upper memory area, or into a specified region or regions of upper memory. This 
is the same as LH. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


LOWBAT Configure low battery warnings 


HC Command Processor 
LOW[BAT] state 


If state is on, the HC will check, each time the HC is switched on, for either of the batteries being low. 
On detecting a low battery, the HC will issue a warning. This will be in the form of an information 
message in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen. 


If state is orF, this behaviour will not take place. This is the default. 
Workabout Command Processor 


Not supported. On detecting a low battery when switched on, the Workabout will issue a warning. This 
will be in the form of an information message in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen. There is no 
command to switch this behaviour off. Use Shift-Ctrl-B for battery information at any time. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. 


LPDEV List physical device drivers 


Lists all specified physical device drivers. 

HC Command Processor 

Not supported. The Lpzv command lists both physical and logical device drivers. 

Workabout Command Processor 

LPDEV [device_spec] 

The list includes all ROM-resident device drivers, as well as external ones that are currently loaded. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not supported. The mem command provides a similar function. 


LPROC List processes 


Lists information about all specified processes. 
HC Command Processor 

LPR[OC] [process_spec] 

Workabout Command Processor 

LPROC [process_spec] 


This command is identical to that on the HC, except that the information is displayed slightly differently, 
(e.g. the number of matching processes is given). 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not supported. The mem command provides a similar function. 


LSEG List segments 


Lists all memory segments currently in use by the specified process(es). 
HC Command Processor 

LSE[G] [process_spec] 

Workabout Command Processor 


LSEG [process_spec] 


This command is identical to that on the HC, except that the information is displayed slightly differently, 
(e.g. the number of matches found is given). 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


MASTER Display time and date of mastering 


HC Command Processor 
MAS [TER] 


Displays the time and date when the ROM was mastered. 


Workabout Command Processor 


Not supported. This command is not relevant since the ROM cannot be reprogrammed. the time and date 
of mastering is given, however, by the ver command. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. 


MD Make directory 


Make a directory. This command is almost identical on all three types of machine. 


HC Command Processor 
MD [system::] [drive:]path 


A trailing backslash can be used in the path component. 


Workabout Command Processor 
MD [system::] [drive:]path 


A trailing backslash can be used in the path component. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
MD [drive:]path 


A trailing backslash cannot be used in the path component. 


MEM Display free memory 
HC Command Processor 

The identical rREz command must be used instead. 

Workabout Command Processor 


MEM 


Displays the amount of free RAM in kilobytes that is available to programs. More detailed information on 
memory usage is available from the "Memory info" option of the "Info" menu in the System Screen. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


MEM <etc> 


Displays the amount of free and used RAM in kilobytes, or more specific aspects of memory usage. 


MEMMAKER Optimise computer's memory 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. Not relevant to SIBO machines. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. Not relevant to SIBO machines. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

MEMMAKER <etc> 


Optimises the computer's memory usage. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


MENUCOLOR Set startup menu colours 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

The Workabout has a built-in menu system.. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 
MENUCOLOR <etc> 


Sets the foreground and background colours for the startup menu. Can only be used in config.sys files. 
MS-DOS 6.0 onwards. 


MENUDEFAULT Set startup menu item and timeout 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

The Workabout has a built-in menu system. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 
MENUDEFAULT <etc> 


Sets the default highlighted item on the startup menu, and the timeout. Can only be used in config.sys 
files. MS-DOS 6.0 onwards. 


MENUITEM Define startup menu item 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

The Workabout has a built-in menu system. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 
MENUITEM <etc> 


Defines an item on the startup menu. Can only be used in config.sys files. MS-DOS 6.0 onwards. 


MKDIR Make directory 


Makes a directory. 

HC Command Processor 

Not supported. The identical my command must be used instead. 
Workabout Command Processor 

MKDIR [drive:]path 

A trailing backslash can be used in the path component. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

MKDIR [drive:]path 


A trailing backslash cannot be used in the path component. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


MODE Configure system devices 
HC Command Processor 

The n1nk command and Communications Scripts can perform similar functions. 

Workabout Command Processor 

The t1nk command and Communications Scripts can perform similar functions. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

MODE <etc> 


Configure system devices. 


MORE Display output one screenful at a time 
HC Command Processor 

The Psion-Left key combination is used to pause output in the Command Processor. 

Workabout Command Processor 


The Workabout Command Processor pauses automatically after each screenful of output, except during 
batch file execution. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
MORE <etc> 


Displays output one screenful at a time. 


MOVE Move file(s) 


HC Command Processor 

A combination of copy and pe must be used. 
Workabout Command Processor 

A combination of copy and pEL must be used. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

MOVE <etc> 


Moves a file or files to a specified location. 


MSAV Scan for viruses 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 
Not supported. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 
MSAV <etc> 


Scans for viruses. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


MSBACKUP Run backup program 


HC Command Processor 

The MCLINK, RCom and PsiWin programs all include backup and restore facilities. 
Workabout Command Processor 

The MCLINK, RCom and PsiWin programs all include backup and restore facilities. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

MSBACKUP <etc> 


Runs the Microsoft Backup for MS-DOS program to backup or restore files, (MS-DOS 6.0). 


MSCDEX Provide CD-ROM access 


HC Command Processor 
The MCLINK, RCom and PsiWin programs all include remote file access facilities. 


Workabout Command Processor 
The MCLINK, RCom and PsiWin programs all include remote file access facilities. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
MSCDEX <etc> 
Provides access to CD-ROM drives. 


MSD Provide technical details 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 
Not supported. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 
MSD <etc> 


Provides technical details about your computer. 


NLSFUNC Load country-specific information 


HC Command Processor 


The language data file may be changed by using the conric command. 


Workabout Command Processor 


The characters available from the keyboard may be changed by defining the keyboard to use via the 
SETDEF command. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
NLSFUNC <etc> 


Loads country-specific information for national language support (NLS). 


NOTIFY Control whether the Notifier appears 


HC Command Processor 


NOT[IFY] state 


Controls whether the Notifier ever appears as a result of a file operation carried out by the Command 
Shell. 


Workabout Command Processor 
A notifier always appears when required. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


NUMLOCK Start with Num Lock on/off 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 
Not supported. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


NUMLOCK [ON|OFF] 


Specifies whether the Num Lock key is ON or OFF when the computer starts. Can only be used in 
config. sys files. 


OFFENABLE Enable off-key handling 


HC Command Processor 


OFFE[NABLE] value 


If value is 0, the Command Shell gives up its capture of the OFF key, thereby allowing other applications 
to capture this key to do their own processing of it. 


If value is any non-zero number, the Command Shell attempts to capture the OFF key again. 
Workabout Command Processor 
The Window Server always captures the Off key. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. 


PATH Specify search path for executable files 
HC Command Processor 

SIBO computers have built in search routines for executable files. 

Workabout Command Processor 

SIBO computers have built in search routines for executable files. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

PATH <etc> 


Specifies or displays the search path for executable files. 


PAUSE Suspend batch file processing 


Suspend batch file processing. 

HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

PAUSE [text] 

Any associated message may be given in the text. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

PAUSE 


A "Press any key to continue" message is displayed, but a separate EcHo statement is needed to display any 
other associated message. MS-DOS 5.0 onwards. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


POWER Power saving set/display/on/off 


HC Command Processor 

Power saving features are an integral part of SIBO machines. See the auto command, etc. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Power saving features are an integral part of SIBO machines. See the setpEF command,. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

POWER <etc> 


Turns power-saving on and off, displays power saving status and sets power saving parameters. 


PRINT Print text file in background 


HC Command Processor 

Other processes (tasks) may print while the Command Processor is being used. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Other processes (tasks) may print while the Command Processor is being used. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

PRINT <etc> 


Prints a text file as a background activity. 


PROMPT Change command prompt 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. Restricted screen size limits the practical size for the prompt. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. Restricted screen size limits the practical size for the prompt. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

PROMPT [text] 


Changes the appearance of the command prompt. 


QBASIC Run QBasic language 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. An OPL program editor and translator is provided in the ROM as standard, (see EDIT). 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

QBASIC <etc> 


Runs the MS-DOS QBasic language interpreter. 


QUIT Exit current batch file only 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

QUIT 

Exits the current batch file only. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

Not supported. Use Goto 1abe1 where :1abe1 1s the last line of the batch file. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


RD Remove directory 


HC Command Processor 


RD [drive:]path 

Workabout Command Processor 

RD [drive:]path [/y] 

Deletes a directory, including any files in it (and subdirectories). 

If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

RD [drive:]path 


Deletes an empty directory only. 


REASON Get the cause of the last system shutdown 
HC Command Processor 
Not supported. A message is, however, displayed automatically on switch-on after a system shutdown. 


Workabout Command Processor 


REASON 
Returns a code indicating the cause of the last system shutdown. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported 


REM Comment (remark) in batch file 
Comment (remark) in a batch file. 

HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

REM [text] 

A semicolon (; ) cannot be used instead of rem. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


REM [text] 


A semicolon (; ) can be used instead of rem in config.sys files, but not batch files. 


REN{AME} Rename file(s) 


Changes the name of a file or files. 

HC Command Processor 

REN[AME] [drive:] [path]filenamel filename2 
Workabout Command Processor 

REN [drive:] [path]filenamel filename2 
MS-DOS Command Processor 


RENAME [drive:] [path]filenamel filename2 


or 


REN [drive:][path]filenamel filename2 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


REPLACE Replace file(s) 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


REPLACE <etc> 


Replaces the files in one directory with those of the same name from another directory. 


RESTORE Restore file(s) 


HC Command Processor 
Not supported. Files are restored from a PC using MCLINK, RCom or PsiWin. 


Workabout Command Processor 
Not supported. Files are restored from a PC using MCLINK, RCom or PsiWin. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


RESTORE <etc> 


Restores backed up files from one disk to another, (MS-DOS 2.0 to 5.0). 


RESUME Resume a suspended process 


HC Command Processor 

RES [UME] procname 

Resumes the previously suspended process procname. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

Not supported. 


RMDIR Remove directory 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. The rp command must be used instead. 

Workabout Command Processor 

RMDIR [drive:]path [/y] 

Deletes a directory, including any files in it (and subdirectories). 

If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 

RMDIR [drive:]path 


Deletes an empty directory only. 


SCANDISK Analyse/repair disk(s) 


HC Command Processor 
Not supported. Not relevant to SSDs. 


Workabout Command Processor 
Not supported. Not relevant to SSDs. 


B - 31 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
SCANDISK <etc> 


Runs the Microsoft ScanDisk program to analyse a disk or disks and repair any errors. 


SET Set default path/environment variables 


This command does completely different things on each machine. 


HC Command Processor 
SET path 
Sets the system-wide default path. 


Workabout Command Processor 

SET [[var[=[value]]]|[varspec]] 

Displays or sets the value of, or deletes, environment variables. 
Equivalent to env on the HC. 


There is no single command to set the default path on the Workabout. The drive letter followed by a colon 
should be used to set the current drive in the Command Processor or batch files , and the CD command to 
change the current directory. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
SET [var=[string] ] 


Displays or sets the value of, or deletes, environment variables. 


SETDATE Set date and time 


HC Command Processor 
SETD[ATE] dd/mm/yy hh:mm:ss 

Sets the date and time. 

Workabout Command Processor 


Not supported. Date and time must be set from the menu of the Command Processor or System Screen. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not supported. Date and time must be set using the patz and trmz commands. 


SETDEF Alter system settings 


HC Command Processor 
Not supported. 


The machine configuration is set using the AUTO, BACKLIGHT, BATTERY, CONFIG, LOWBAT, NOTIFY, 
OFFENABLE and wnotiry commands. The configurability is completely different for the HC. 


Workabout Command Processor 


SETDEF [AMnn] [ABnn] [DDMY | DMDy | DYMD] [Dn] [KO | K1] [s+ | S-] [112 | 124] [TS+ | TS-] 
Alter system settings, (which are otherwise set by menu options). 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


Not supported. Date and time formats are set in the country file, using the country command. 


B - 32 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


SETVER Report MS-DOS version or display/update version table 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. Not relevant to SIBO machines. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. Not relevant to SIBO machines. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

SETVER <etc> 


Displays the MS-DOS version table. Reports a version number (earlier than the installed version) to 
programs or device drivers. Allows the version table to be updated. 


SHARE Install file sharing and locking 
HC Command Processor 

Built into the EPOC Operating System of all SIBO machines. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Built into the EPOC Operating System of all SIBO machines. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

SHARE <etc> 


Installs file sharing and locking capabilities on local and/or network drives. 


SHELL Specify command interpreter 


HC Command Processor 


Alternative command processors can be installed on HC machines - see the Customising an HC section of 
the Introduction to the HC chapter of the HC Programmers Reference manual. 


Workabout Command Processor 


Alternative command processors can be installed on Workabout machines - see the Customising a 
Workabout section of the Introduction to the Workabout chapter of the Workabout Programmers 
Reference manual. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
SHELL <etc> 


Specifies the name and location of the command interpreter to use. Can only be used in config. sys files. 


SHIFT Shift batch file parameters 


Moves the replaceable parameters of a batch file one position to the left. Thus 1 becomes s0, s9 becomes 
$8, etc. 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 
SHIFT 

MS-DOS Command Processor 
SHIFT 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


SMARTDRV Setup/configure disk cache/buffering 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. Not relevant to SIBO machines using SSDs and RAMdrives. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. Not relevant to SIBO machines using SSDs and RAMdrives. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


SMARTDRV <etc> 


Sets up or configures MS-DOS SMARTDrive which creates a disk cache in extended memory, or 
performs double buffering. 


SORT Read, sort and write data 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


SORT <etc> 


Reads input, sorts data and writes output to screen a file or another device. 


START Start a process asynchronously 


HC Command Processor 


Not supported. Processes are started asynchronously by simply entering their name, 
(unless preceded by &). 


Workabout Command Processor 


START procname 
Launch the given process and return immediately. 
Starts the first process found matching the specification in procname, (asynchronously). 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. MS-DOS is not multitasking. 


STOP Stop a process 


HC Command Processor 


Not supported. This is identical to TER {mINATE] on the HC, except that TER[MINATE] only stops the first 
process matching the specification. 


Workabout Command Processor 


STOP procname [/y] 
Terminates the named process or processes matching the specification in procname. 
If the /y flag is used, no confirmation is asked for. This is intended for use in batch files. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. 


B - 34 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


SUBMENU Specify startup menu item as a submenu 


HC Command Processor 
Not supported. 
Workabout Command Processor 


Not supported. The Workabout has a built-in menu system. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


SUBMENU <etc> 


Specifies an item in the startup menu as giving a submenu when selected. Can only be used in config.sys 
files. MS-DOS 6.0 onwards. 


SUBST Associate path with drive letter 


HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 
Not supported. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 
SUBST <etc> 


Associates a path with a drive letter. 


SUSPEND Suspend a process 


HC Command Processor 

SUS[PEND] procname 

Suspends the first process found matching the specification in procname. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. 

MS-DOS Command Processor 

Not supported. 


SYS Make a startup disk 


HC Command Processor 

Not relevant to SIBO machines. 
Workabout Command Processor 
Not relevant to SIBO machines. 
MS-DOS Command Processor 
SYS <etc> 


Creates a boot disk containing hidden system files, the command processor, etc. 


TERMINATE Terminate a process 


HC Command Processor 

TER[MINATE] procname 

Terminates the first process found matching the specification in procname. 
Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. Replaced by: 


STOP procname 


B - 35 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


This is identical to TER[mMINATE] on the HC, except that all processes matching the specification procname 
are terminated. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. MS-DOS is not multitasking. 


TIME Display/(set) time 
HC Command Processor 
Not supported. pate displays both the current system date and time. 


Workabout Command Processor 


TIME 


Displays the current time, in the default format, or that specified by the most recent seTDEF or menu 
command. Time must be set via the menu system. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


TIME [hours: [minutes[:seconds[.hundredths]]][A|P]] 


Displays the system time or sets your computer's internal clock. 


TREE Display directory graphically 
HC Command Processor 

Not supported. 

Workabout Command Processor 

Not supported. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


TREE <etc> 


Displays a directory graphically. 


TYPE Type a text file 


Prints a text or batch file to the screen. 
HC Command Processor 
TY[PE] filename 


There is no provision for the display to pause itself automatically. However, the user can pause the display 
at any time, in the usual way, by pressing PSION-LEFT. 


Workabout Command Processor 


TYPE filename 
The display pauses itself automatically after each screen full of text. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


TYPE filename 


UNDELETE Restore deleted files 


HC Command Processor 
Not available. 
Workabout Command Processor 


Not available. 


APPENDIX B - COMMAND PROCESSOR DIFFERENCES 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


UNDELETE <etc> 


Restores files previously deleted using the pEL or ERASE command. 


UNFORMAT Restore a formatted disk 


HC Command Processor 
Not available. 
Workabout Command Processor 


Not available. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


UNFORMAT <etc> 


Restores a disk previously erased by using the rormMat command. 


VER Display software version numbers 
HC Command Processor 
VER[SION] 


Displays the (EPOC) Operating System version number, the (HC) ROM version number, and the 
(Command) Shell version number. 


Workabout Command Processor 


VER 


Displays the (Workabout) ROM version number, the date and time that the ROM was mastered, the 
(EPOC) Operating System version number, the Shell version number and the Command Processor version 
number. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


VER 


Displays the MS-DOS version number. 


VERIFY Turn disk write verification on/off 


HC Command Processor 
Not available. 
Workabout Command Processor 


Not available. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


VERIFY [ON|OFF] 


Switches disk write operation verification on or off. 


VOL Display the disk volume label etc 
HC Command Processor 
Not supported. 


Workabout Command Processor 
VOL [system::] [drive:] 


Displays the system, drive, volume label, media type, free space and total space for the disk volume in the 
current or specified drive. 


B - 37 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


VOL [drive:] 


Displays the volume label and serial number of the disk volume in the current or specified drive. 


VSAFE Continuously check for viruses 


HC Command Processor 


Not available. 


Workabout Command Processor 


Not available. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


VSAFE <etc> 


Continuously monitors the computer for viruses. 


WAIT Wait for a process to complete 


Wait until a process completes. 


HC Command Processor 


WAI [T] 
The process cannot be named. 


Workabout Command Processor 


WAIT [procname] 
A process name may be given if required. 
Suspends the Command Processor until the applicable process completes. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. MS-DOS is not multitasking. 


WNOTIFY Configure Notifier appearance 


HC Command Processor 


WNO[TIFY] state 
Configures the appearance of the Notifier. 


Workabout Command Processor 


Not available. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 
Not supported. 


XCOPY Copy directories, subdirectories and files 


HC Command Processor 

Not available. 

Workabout Command Processor 
Use copy /s. 


MS-DOS Command Processor 


XCOPY <etc> 


Copies directories, their subdirectories and the files in those subdirectories. 


APPENDIX C 


DIFFERENCES BETWEEN 


THE SERIES 3A/3C SYSTEM SCREEN AND THE 


WORKABOUT SYSTEM SCREEN AND COMMAND 


PROCESSOR MENUS 


Introduction 


About this appendix 


This appendix compares the Psion Series 3a/3c System Screen with the options of the Workabout System 
Screen and the Workabout Command Processor menus. Where relevant related Psion HC and Psion Siena 
features are also included. It is provided to highlight the differences between the machines so that 
developers may easily adapt to working with (and designing user interfaces for) the Workabout. 


Principal differences centre on: 


restricted screen size 


different keyboard 
backlight 

ports 

sound 


built in applications 


menu names need to be abbreviated 

less options can be fitted on each menu 

the analogue clock is too big for the Workabout and Siena Status/Info windows 
icons are too big for the Workabout status window 

certain keys are not present (Diamond, Icon buttons) 

not present on the Series 3a or Siena, available on Series 3c variant 

the Workabout can have several ports 

the Series 3a/3c has digital sound recording and playback 


the Time and World applications are not present on the Workabout, (Data, Calc, 
Sheet, Program, RunOpl, Comms, Script and RunImg applications are present) 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Note that the Workabout Command Processor is only mentioned where relevant since it has only a small 
number of menus, menu options and corresponding hotkeys. 


Hotkeys 


When assigning "hotkeys" ("accelerators") to certain key combinations in the applications that you write it 
is important to note the differences that exist between the Psion HC, the Series 3a/3c, Siena and the 
Workabout. 


Psion-A Assign button/Set auto switch off times 


Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


mt 


The Psion-A hotkey brings up the 'Assign button to "Icon_button 
name above one of the Series 3a/3c icon buttons. 


dialog, where "Icon_button" is the 


Workabout System Screen 


There is no "Assign button" option on the 'File’ menu. The Psion-A hotkey brings up the "Set auto switch 
off times" dialog instead. 


Psion-B/Shift-Ctrl-B Battery info 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 
The Psion-B hotkey brings up the 'Battery info' dialog in the System Screen only. 


Workabout System Screen 
The Psion-B hotkey does nothing. For battery information Shift-Ctrl-B can be used at any time. 


Shift-Psion-D Dialling 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Shift-Psion-D hotkey brings up the 'Dial settings’ dialog, (not present on the Siena). 

Workabout System Screen 

The Shift-Psion-D hotkey does nothing. 


Shift-Psion-E “Evaluate” format 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Shift-Psion-E hotkey brings up the 'Set "Evaluate" format’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Shift-Psion-E hotkey does nothing. 


Psion-F Format disk/Time and date format 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Psion-F hotkey brings up the 'Format disk’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Psion-F hotkey brings up the 'Format disk’ dialog. 


Workabout Command Processor 
The Psion-F hotkey brings up the 'Set date and time formats’ dialog. 


APPENDIX C - MENU DIFFERENCES 


Shift-Psion-F Number formats/Time and date format 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Shift-Psion-F hotkey brings up the 'Set number formats’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Shift-Psion-F hotkey brings up the 'Set date and time formats’ dialog. 

Workabout Command Processor 

The Shift-Psion-F hotkey does nothing. 


Psion-G Create new group 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 
The Psion-G hotkey brings up the 'Create new group’ dialog. 


Workabout System Screen 


The Psion-G hotkey does nothing. New application groups cannot be created on the Workabout. 


Psion-K Disc info/Toggle keyboard 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Psion-K brings up the 'Disk info’ window. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Psion-K brings up the 'Disk info’ window. 

Workabout Command Processor 


The Psion-K hotkey toggles between ‘Standard keyboard' and 'Special keyboard’. The text for this option 
in the associated menu changes accordingly. 


Shift-Psion-N Give 'Normal' system screen 


Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


The Shift-Psion-N hotkey switches the System Screen to 'Normal' mode without the 'Memory used' bar at 
the bottom. 


Workabout System Screen and Command Processor 
Shift-Psion-N does nothing. 


Shift-Psion-M Give 'Memory' system screen 


Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


The Shift-Psion-M hotkey switches the System Screen to 'Memory' mode with the 'Memory used" bar 
displayed at the bottom. 


Workabout System Screen and Command Processor 
Shift-Psion-M does nothing. 


Psion-O Auto switch off 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Psion-O hotkey brings up the 'Set auto switch off times’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen and Command Processor 


Psion-O does nothing, (Psion-A is used instead). 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Psion-P Set owner information 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Psion-P hotkey brings up the 'Set owner information’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Psion-P hotkey does nothing. 


Psion-S Set the sound 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Psion-S hotkey brings up the 'Set the sound’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Psion-S hotkey brings up the 'Set the sound’ dialog. 


The ‘Alarm sounds' option is not present because the Workabout does not have digital sound capabilities, 
unlike the Series 3a/3c. 


Time:Psion-S/Shift-Psion-S Set summer time 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

To set the summer time on/off the hotkey is Psion-S within the Time application. 

The Shift-Psion-S hotkey does nothing. 

Workabout System Screen 

To set the summer time on/off the hotkey is Shift-Psion-S (there is no Time application). 

Workabout Command Processor 

The Shift-Psion-S hotkey brings up the 'Set summer time’ dialog. 


Psion-T Set file attributes/Set time and date 


Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


The Psion-T hotkey brings up the 'Set file attributes’ dialog. (Note that the Psion-T hotkey brings up the 
‘Set time and date’ dialog in the Time application.) 


Workabout System Screen 


There is no 'Set file attributes' option on the 'File' menu. The Psion-T hotkey brings up the 'Set time and 
date’ dialog instead. 


Workabout Command Processor 
The Psion-T hotkey brings up the 'Set time and date’ dialog. 


Psion-U Usage monitor/Update lists 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Psion-U hotkey brings up the 'Usage monitor’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Psion-U hotkey updates the lists of files displayed under each application icon. 


Psion-V About Series 3a/3c/Versions 


Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


The Psion-V hotkey brings up the Series 3a/3c copyright screen, which shows the EPOC O/S version 
number. 


APPENDIX C - MENU DIFFERENCES 


Workabout System Screen 


The Psion-V hotkey brings up the 'Software versions’ window, which shows the ROM version number, the 
date and time the ROM was mastered, and the EPOC O/S version. 


Shift-Psion-V About application 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


The Shift-Psion-V hotkey brings up the 'About"Application_name" window for the currently highlighted 
application (with the name "Application_name"). 


Workabout System Screen 
The Shift-Psion-V hotkey does nothing. 


Psion-W Password/Toggle wrap 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Psion-W hotkey brings up the 'Set password’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Psion-W hotkey does nothing. A system password cannot be set on the Workabout. 

Workabout Command Processor 


The Psion-W hotkey toggles between 'Wrap on' and 'Wrap off. Word wrap is only applicable to the 
Workabout's restricted screen within the Command Processor. 


Psion-X Exit 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


The Psion-X hotkey does nothing in the System Screen. The system Screen cannot be exited and is always 
a running process. 


Workabout System Screen 


The Psion-X hotkey brings up the 'Exit System Screen’ dialog. The System Screen can be exited, since 
there is always at least one other process running (the Startup Shell). 


Psion-Y Printer 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Psion-Y hotkey brings up the 'Printer configuration’ window. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Psion-Y hotkey does nothing. 


Psion-Diamond/Psion-Space Caps lock on/off 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

The Psion-Diamond hotkey switches Caps Lock on and off. 

Workabout System Screen and Command Processor 


The Psion-Space hotkey switches Caps Lock on and off, (there is no Diamond key). this is actually 
implemented in the Startup Shell process which runs in the background, so it applies to any application. 


Psion-Tab/Shift-Psion-Tab Display full path in file-related dialogs 
Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 
To display the full path in file-related dialogs, Psion-Tab or Shift-Psion-Tab may be pressed. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Workabout System Screen and Command Processor 
To display the full path in file-related dialogs, Shift-Psion-Tab must be pressed. 


Psion-Tab is used for task switching - see below. 


Psion-+ / Psion-> Make directory 
Psion Series 3a/3c System Screen 

The Psion-+ hotkey brings up the ‘Make directory’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen 
The Psion-+ hotkey brings up the ‘Make directory’ dialog. 


Siena System Screen 


The Psion-> hotkey brings up the ‘Make directory’ dialog, (Psion-+ only available via numeric keypad). 


Psion-- / Psion-< Remove directory 
Psion Series 3a/3c System Screen 

The Psion-- hotkey brings up the ‘Remove directory’ dialog. 

Workabout System Screen 

The Psion-- hotkey brings up the ‘Remove directory’ dialog. 

Siena System Screen 


The Psion-< hotkey brings up the ‘Remove directory’ dialog, (Psion--, [Psion-Minus], is allocated to 
“Remove application’). 


Psion-/ / Psion-- Remove application 


Psion Series 3a/3c System Screen 


The Psion-/ hotkey brings up the ‘Remove “App” application’ dialog, where “App” is the currently 
highlighted application. 


Workabout System Screen 


The Psion-/ hotkey brings up the ‘Remove “App” application’ dialog, where “App” is the currently 
highlighted application. 


Siena System Screen 


The Psion-- hotkey (Psion-Minus) brings up the ‘Remove “App” application’ dialog, where “App” is the 
currently highlighted application, (Psion-Fn-D would be too awkward). 


Shift-Psion-O Control menu 
Psion Series 3a/3c System Screen 

Does nothing. 

Psion Workabout System Screen 

Does nothing. 

Siena System Screen 


The Psion-O hotkey brings up the ‘Control’ menu, (the screen is too narrow to fit this on the main menu 
bar). 


APPENDIX C - MENU DIFFERENCES 


Switch task 
Psion HC 


TASK switches forwards one task. 
SHIFT-TASK switches backwards one task. 


Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


Shift-System (icon button) switches forwards one task. 
Shift-Psion-System switches backwards one task. 


Psion Workabout System Screen and Command Processor 


Psion-Tab is used for task switching (forwards only). 
On the Series 3a/3c this accelerator is used to display the full path in file-related dialogs.. 


On the Workabout Shift-Psion-Tab is used to display the full path in file-related dialogs, and does not 
switch backwards one task. 


SS —_____————____________________________ 
Menus 


Some menu options that are present on the Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen are not present on the 
Workabout System Screen, are on a different menu, or have a slightly different functionality. 


File menu 

Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

Copy file Brings up the 'Copy file’ dialog, with 'Subdirectories' and "Modified only' choices 

File attributes Brings up the 'Set file attributes’ dialog. 

Backup files The 'File’ choice list allows 'All’ or Modified since last backup’. 

Psion Workabout System Screen 

Copy file Brings up the 'Copy file' dialog, which does not have 'Subdirectories' and 'Modified 
only' choices, (restricted screen height). 

File attributes Not present. 

Backup files The 'File' choice list allows ‘All’ or 'Since last backup’, (shortened to fit in window). 

Disk menu 

Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

Default disk Brings up the 'Set default disk’ dialog. 

Psion Workabout System Screen 

Default disk Not present (this option is on the 'Control' menu). 

Apps menu 


Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


mt 


Assign button Brings up the '"Assign button to "Icon_button" dialog, 
where "Icon_button" is the name above one of the Series 3a/3c icon buttons. 


Psion Workabout System Screen 


Assign button Not present (there are no icon buttons on the Workabout). 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Info menu 


The differences are: 


Psion Series 3a/3c System Screen 


Set owner 
Disk info 
Battery info 
Usage monitor 


About Series 
3a/3c 


About application 


Versions 


Brings up the 'Set owner information’ dialog. 
Displays Disk A , Internal disk I and Disk B. 
Brings up the 'Battery info' window. 

Brings up the 'Usage monitor’ dialog. 


Brings up the Psion Series 3a/3c startup screen, giving the Epoc/OS version number 
and copyright dates. 


Brings up a window of information about the currently highlighted application. 


Not present, (see 'About Series 3a/3c' above). 


Psion Workabout System Screen 


Update lists 
Disk info 

Set owner 
Battery info 
Usage monitor 


About Series 
3a/3c 


About application 


Versions 


(In the Series 3a/3c and Siena ‘Set preferences’ dialog) 

Displays Disk A , Internal disk I and Disk B. 

Not present. Owner details cannot be set on the Workabout. 

Not present. Battery information is obtained by pressing Shift-Ctrl-B. 
Not present. There is no usage monitor on the Workabout. 


Not present, (see 'Versions' below). 


Not present. 


The ‘Software versions' window is presented, giving the ROM version number, date 
and time of mastering, and the Epoc/OS version number. This, along with the 
copyright screen in the Startup Shell, replaces the 'About Series 3a/3c’ option of the 
Series 3a/3c. 


Psion Siena System Screen 


Set owner 
Disk info 
Battery info 
Usage monitor 


About Siena 


About application 


Versions 


Brings up the 'Set owner information’ dialog. 

Displays Disk A (external drive) and Internal disk I only. 
Brings up the 'Battery info' window. 

Brings up the 'Usage monitor’ dialog. 


Brings up the Psion Siena startup screen, giving the Epoc/OS version number and 
copyright dates. 


Brings up a window of information about the currently highlighted application. 


Not present, (see ‘About Siena’ above). 


Control menu 


The differences are: 


Psion Series 3a/3c System Screen 


Sound 
Printer 


Auto switch off 


Dialling 


Brings up the 'Set the sound’ dialog, which includes an 'Alarm sounds' choice. 
Brings up the 'Printer configuration’ dialog. 


Brings up the 'Set auto switch of' dialog - there are no backlight choices for the Series 
3a/3c where a backlight not present, (options present for backlit Series 3c variant). 


Brings up the 'Dial settings’ dialog. 


"Evaluate" 
format 


Number formats 
Set time and date 


Time and date 
format 


Status window 


Default disk 


APPENDIX C - MENU DIFFERENCES 


Brings up the ‘Set "Evaluate" format’ dialog. 


Brings up the 'Set number formats’ dialog. 
Not present - set from the Time application. 


Not present - set from the Time application. 


Brings up the 'Status window display’ window - the 'Clock type’ can be Digital or 
Analog. 


Not present - this option is on the 'Control' menu.. 


Psion Workabout System Screen 


The name of this menu is abbreviated to 'Ctrl'. 


Sound 


Printer 


Auto switch off 


‘Dialling’ option 


"Evaluate" 
format 


Number formats 
Set time and date 


Time and date 
format 


Status window 


Default disk 


Brings up the 'Set the sound’ dialog - there is no 'Alarm sounds' choice, (the 
Workabout does not have digital sound capabilities). 


Not present. 


Brings up the 'Set auto switch of times' dialog, which has three choices for the 
backlight. 


Not present. 


Not present - moved to the 'Set preferences’ option of the 'Special' menu. 


Not present - moved to the 'Set preferences’ option of the ‘Special’ menu.. 
Brings up the 'Set time and date dialog’. 


Brings up the 'Set time and date dialog’. 


Brings up the 'Status window display’ window - there is no 'Clock type’ choice (only a 
Digital clock is allowed). 


Brings up the 'Set default disk’ dialog. 


Psion Workabout Command Processor 


This menu contains ‘Sound’, 'Auto switch off and ‘Special keyboard’ options only. The 'Special keyboard' 
option is implemented as a choice in the 'Preferences' option of the 'Spec' menu in the Workabout System 


Screen. 


Psion Siena System Screen 


Accessed from the ‘Special’ menu by using the ‘Control...’ option. 


Sound 
Printer 


Auto switch off 


Dialling 


"Evaluate" 
format 


Number formats 
Set time and date 


Time and date 
format 


Brings up the 'Set the sound’ dialog, which includes an 'Alarm sounds' choice. 
Brings up the 'Printer configuration’ dialog. 


Brings up the 'Set auto switch of' dialog - there are no backlight choices for the Siena 
(a backlight is not present). 


Not present - the Siena has a piezo buzzer, not a speaker. 


Brings up the 'Set "Evaluate" format’ dialog. 


Brings up the 'Set number formats’ dialog. 
Not present - set from the Time application. 


Not present - set from the Time application. 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Info window 


Default disk 


Brings up the 'Info window display’ window - there are no 'Clock type’ or ‘Disk 
indicators’ options because the Info window is too narrow, (it is otherwise identical to 
the Series 3a/3c Status window). 


Not present - this option is on the 'Control' menu.. 


Special menu 


The differences are: 


Psion Series 3a/3c System Screen 


Set preferences 
Password 
Remote link / 
Communications 


Tips 


Exit 


Brings up the 'Set preferences’ dialog, which includes an ‘Update lists' choice. 
Brings up the 'Set password' dialog. 


Brings up the 'Remote link’ dialog - there is no 'Port' choice since the Series 3a/3c 
only has one port. (Note that the option is called Communications on the Series 3c 
and there is a ‘Power setting’ option, for Low and High Infrared power levels.). 


On Series 3c only - to control whether a Tip is displayed when the machine is 
switched on. 


Not present - the system Screen cannot be exited and is always a running process. 


Psion Workabout System Screen 


The name of this menu is abbreviated to ‘Spec’. 


Set preferences 


Password 


Remote link 


Create new group 
Tips 


Exit 


Brings up the 'Set preferences’ dialog, which does not include an ‘Update lists' 
choice, but has the "Number formats’ and '"Evaluate" format’ choices (on the Control 
menu of the Series 3a/3c and Siena), plus a 'keyboard' choice to swap between 
Standard and Special keyboards. 


Not present - you cannot set a system password on the Workabout. 


Brings up the 'Remote link’ dialog - there is a 'Port' choice since the Workabout can 
be fitted with several ports. (Note that there is no ‘Power setting’ option, because 
there is no Infrared communications. ) 


Not present - you cannot create groups on the Workabout. 
Not present. 


Brings up the 'Exit System Screen' dialog. The System Screen can be exited, since 
there is always at least one other process running (the Startup Shell). 


Psion Workabout Command Processor 


This menu contains 'Remote link’, 'Wrap on/off’, 'Zoom in’, "Zoom out’ and 'Exit' options only. The "Wrap 
on/off option is not implemented anywhere in the Workabout System Screen menus. Because it toggles 
word wrap on and off, the text for this option changes from 'Wrap on' to 'Wrap off accordingly. 


Psion Siena System Screen 


Control... 
Set preferences 
Password 


Communications 


Tips 


Exit 


Brings up the Control menu, (which is not present on the menu bar). 
Brings up the 'Set preferences’ dialog, which includes an 'Update lists' choice. 
Brings up the 'Set password' dialog. 


Brings up the ‘Communications’ dialog - there is no 'Port' choice since the Siena only 
has one port. There is a ‘Power setting’ option, for Low and High Infrared power 
levels. (Note that the option is called ‘Remote link’ on the Series 3a and Workabout.) 


To control whether a Tip is displayed when the machine is switched on. 


Not present - the system Screen cannot be exited and is always a running process. 


APPENDIX C - MENU DIFFERENCES 


‘Diamond’ menu 


The differences are: 

Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 

Normal Switches the System Screen to not show the 'Memory used' bar at the bottom. 
Memory Switches the System Screen to show the 'Memory used' bar at the bottom. 


Psion Workabout System Screen 


This menu is not present, (there is no Diamond key, and the screen is of restricted height). 


Time menu 


The differences are: 


Psion Series 3a/3c and Siena System Screen 


This menu is not present. The "Time and date’, ‘Summer times' and 'Formats' options are in the menus for 
the Time application. 


Psion Workabout System Screen 


This menu is not present. The 'Set time and date’ and 'Time and date format’ options are in the 'Ctrl' 
menu. 'Summer time' is incorporated as a choice in the 'Set time and date’ dialog. 


Psion Workabout Command Processor 


This menu contains "Time and date’, ‘Summer time’ and 'Formats' options. 


INDEX 


.btf files 
Workabout, 1-2 
add files 
Workabout, 2-7 
APPEND 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-3 
applications 
differences in SIBO systems, C-1 
Apps menu 
Series 3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-7 
asynchronous programs 
Workabout, 3-4 
ATTRIB 
Workabout command, 3-9 
ATTRIB{UTE} 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-3 
AUTO 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-4 
autoexec file 
Workabout, 2-5 
autoexec. btf 
Workabout, 1-2 
backlight 
differences in SIBO systems, C-1 
BACKLIGHT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-4 
BACKUP 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-4 
bar code reader 
conversion of HC reader for Workabout, 
A-5 
batch file processing 
Workabout, 3-3 
batch files 


command processor - HC - Workabout and 


MS-DOS, B-2 
BATCHK 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-4 
BATTERY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-5 
battery pack 
Workabout docking station slot, 1-4 
BREAK 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-5 


buzzer 
Workabout, 1-8 
C$P$ 
environment variable Workabout, 2-11 
C$P@ 
environment variable Workabout, 2-10 
C$PE£ 
environment variable Workabout, 2-11 
C$PA to C$PZ 
environment variable Workabout, 2-11 
CALC 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-5 
Workabout command, 3-9 
CALL 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-5 
Workabout command, 3-9 
CD 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-6 
Workabout command, 3-10 
CHCP 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-6 
CHDIR 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-6 
Workabout command, 3-10 
CHKDSK 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-7 
CHOICE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-7 
clocks 
differences in SIBO systems, C-1 
CLS 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-7 
Workabout command, 3-10 
cold reset 
Workabout, 1-10 
COMMAND 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-7 
command line editor 
Workabout, 3-5 
command processor 
alphabetic listing Workabout, 3-8 


batch files - HC - Workabout and MS-DOS, 


B-2 

commands - HC - Workabout and MS- 
DOS, B-1 

differences - HC - Workabout and MS- 
DOS, B-1 


directories - HC - Workabout and MS-DOS, 


B-2 


file and directory names - HC - Workabout 


and MS-DOS, B-2 


file name wildcards - HC - Workabout and 


MS-DOS, B-2 
help - HC - Workabout and MS-DOS, B-1 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


launching programs - HC - Workabout and 
MS-DOS, B-2 
memory resident programs - HC - 
Workabout and MS-DOS, B-3 
syntax restrictions Workabout, 3-8 
Workabout, 1-2, 1-9, 3-1 
command processor menus 
Workabout, 3-1 
command shell 
see also command processor, B-1 
command syntax 
Workabout, 3-8 
commands 
command processor - HC - Workabout and 
MS-DOS, B-1 
COMMS 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-8 
Workabout command, 3-10 
communications ports 
Workabout, 1-4 
COMP 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-8 
CONFIG 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-8 
connecting 
Workabout, 1-11 
Workabout hardware, 1-11 
Workabout software, 1-11 
Control menu 
Series 3a/c System Screen, C-8 
Siena System Screen, C-9 
Workabout Command Processor, C-9 
Workabout System Screen, C-9 
COPY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-8 
Workabout command, 3-11 
COUNTRY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-9 
cradle 
docking station Workabout, 1-4 
CTTY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-9 
customising 
Workabout, 1-10 
Workabout hardware, 1-10 
Workabout software, 1-11 
D 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-9 
DATA 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-9 
Workabout command, 3-11 
data integrity 
Workabout, 2-6 
DATE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-10 


Workabout command, 3-12 
DBLSPACE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-10 
DEBUG 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-11 
DEFRAG 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-11 
DEL 
Workabout command, 3-12 
DEL[ETE] 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-11 
DELTREE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-12 
DEVICE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-12 
Diamond menu 
Series 3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-11 
DIR 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-12 
Workabout command, 3-12 
directories 
command processor - HC - Workabout and 
MS-DOS, B-2 
directory current 
Workabout, 3-6 
Disk menu 
Series 3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-7 
DISKCOMP 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-13 
DISKCOPY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-13 
docking station 
Workabout, 1-4 
Workabout specification, A-10 
DOSKEY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-13 
DOSSHELL 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-13 
ECHO 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-14 
Workabout command, 3-13 
EDIT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-14 
Workabout command, 3-13 
EMM386 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-14 
ENV 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-14 
environment variable 


C$P$ - Workabout, 2-11 
C$P@ - Workabout, 2-10 
C$PE£ - Workabout, 2-11 
C$PA to C$PZ - Workabout, 2-11 
S$SVER - Workabout, 2-10 
Workabout specific, 2-10 

ERASE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-15 
Workabout command, 3-14 

ERRLEVEL 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-15 
Workabout command, 3-14 

ERRORLEVEL 
keyword - command processor, B-15 
keyword differences - HC - Workabout and 
MS-DOS, B-15 

events 
Workabout, 2-2 

EXIT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-16 
Workabout command, 3-14 

EXPAND 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-16 

expansion ports 
Workabout, 1-3 

FASTHELP 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-16 

FASTOPEN 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-17 

FC 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-17 

FCBS 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-17 

FDISK 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-17 

file and directory names 
command processor - HC - Workabout and 
MS-DOS, B-2 

file in use error 
Workabout, 3-6 

File menu 
Series 3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-7 

file name wildcards 
command processor - HC - Workabout and 
MS-DOS, B-2 

file names 
Workabout command line, 3-7 

file specification wildcards 
Workabout, 3-8 

FILES 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-18 
Workabout command, 3-14 

files and directories 
Workabout, 3-6 


INDEX 


FIND 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-18 
fonts 
Workabout, 1-9 
Workabout sizes, 3-2 
FOR 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-18 
Workabout command, 3-15 
FORMAT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-18 
Workabout command, 3-15 
FREE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-19 
fuse 
Workabout, 1-6 
GOTO 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-19 
Workabout command, 3-15 
GRAPHICS 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-19 
hard reset 
Workabout, 1-10 
hardware interrupts 
Workabout, 3-21 
HC bar code reader 
conversion to Workabout connector, A-5 
help 
command processor - HC - Workabout and 
MS-DOS, B-1 
HELP 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-19 
Workabout command, 3-15 
hot keys 
differences in SIBO systems, C-2 
icons 
differences in SIBO systems, C-1 
IF 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-20 
Workabout command, 3-16 
Info menu 
Series 3a/c System Screen, C-8 
Siena System Screen, C-8 
Workabout System Screen, C-8 
INSTALL 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-20 
INTERLNK 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-20 
interrupts hardware 
Workabout, 3-21 
INTERSVR 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-20 
key 
Backlight Workabout, 1-7 


iii 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Contrast Workabout, 1-8 
Del Workabout, 1-8 
Enter Workabout, 1-8 
Menu Workabout, 1-7 
Off Workabout, 1-1, 1-7 
On/Esc Workabout, 1-1, 1-7 
Psion Workabout, 1-8 
key combination 
Ctrl-Esc Workabout, 1-8 
Psion-Down Workabout, 1-8 
Psion-Left Workabout, 1-8 
Psion-Right Workabout, 1-8 
Psion-Space Workabout, 1-8 
Psion-Tab Workabout, 1-8 
Psion-Up Workabout, 1-8 
Shift-Ctrl-B Workabout, 1-8 
Shift-Esc Workabout, 1-8 
key Psion 
Workabout, 1-7 
KEYB 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-21 
keyboard 
Workabout, 1-7 
keyboards 
differences in SIBO systems, C-1 
keys special 
Workabout, 1-7 
Workabout batch file processing, 3-5 
Workabout command line editor, 3-5 
Keyword 
ERRORLEVEL, B-15 
KILL 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-21 
Workabout command, 3-16 
LABEL 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-21 
Workabout command, 3-16 
launching programs 


command processor - HC - Workabout and 


MS-DOS, B-2 

LCD display 
Workabout, 1-6 

LDEV 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-21 

LH 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-22 

LINK 
Workabout command, 3-17 

lithium battery 
Workabout, 1-6 

LLDEV 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-22 
Workabout command, 3-17 

LOADFIX 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-22 


LOADHIGH 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-22 
LOWBAT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-23 
LPDEV 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-23 
Workabout command, 3-18 
LPROC 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-23 
Workabout command, 3-18 
LSEG 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-23 
Workabout command, 3-19 
MASTER 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-24 
MD 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-24 
Workabout command, 3-20 
MEM 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-24 
Workabout command, 3-20 
MEMMAKER 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-24 
memory resident programs 


command processor - HC - Workabout and 


MS-DOS, B-3 
menu accelerators 
differences in SIBO systems, C-2 
menu names 
differences in SIBO systems, C-1 
menu options 
differences in SIBO systems, C-1 
MENUCOLOR 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-25 
MENUDEFAULT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-25 
MENUITEM 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-25 
MKDIR 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-25 
Workabout command, 3-20 
MODE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-26 
MORE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-26 
mounting bracket 
VIC (Vehicle Interface Cradle), A-8 


MOVE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-26 
MSAV 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-26 
MSBACKUP 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-27 
MSCDEX 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-27 
MSD 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-27 
NLSFUNC 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-27 
NOTIFY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-27 
NUMLOCK 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-28 
OFFENABLE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-28 
opl.dyl 
Workabout, 1-9 
oplts3.dyl 
Workabout, 1-9 
path 
Workabout command line, 3-7 
PATH 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-28 
path default 
Workabout, 3-6 
PAUSE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-28 
Workabout command, 3-20 
pausing screen display 
Workabout, 3-6 
ports 
communications Workabout, 1-4 
differences in SIBO systems, C-1 
Workabout expansion, 1-3 
POWER 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-29 
PRINT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-29 
processor Workabout 
NEC V30H, 1-3 
program launching 
Workabout, 3-3 
programming 
Workabout, 2-1 
programming choices 
Workabout, 2-1 
programming examples 
Lcdtest Workabout, 2-10 


INDEX 


Tables Workabout, 2-8 
Workabout, 2-8 
programming guidelines 
Workabout, 2-6 
programs asynchronous 
Workabout, 3-4 
programs synchronous 
Workabout, 3-4 
programs terminating 
Workabout, 3-4 
PROMPT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-29 
Psion-- hotkey 
S3a/c, C-6 
Siena System Screen, C-6 
Workabout System Screen, C-6 
Psion key 
Workabout, 1-7 
Psion-/ hotkey 
S3a/c, C-6 
Workabout System Screen, C-6 
Psion-+ hotkey 
S3a/c, C-6 
Workabout System Screen, C-6 
Psion-< hotkey 
Siena System Screen, C-6 
Psion-> hotkey 
Siena System Screen, C-6 
Psion-A hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-2 
Workabout System Screen, C-2 
Psion-B hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-2 
Psion-Ctrl-Del 
Workabout, 1-10 
Psion-Diamond hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-5 
Psion-F hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-2 
Workabout Command Processor, C-2 
Psion-G hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-3 
Psion-K hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-3 
Workabout Command Processor, C-3 
Workabout System Screen, C-3 
Psion-O hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-3 
Psion-S hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-4 
Workabout System Screen, C-4 
Psion-Shift-Ctrl-Del 
Workabout, 1-10 
Psion-Space hotkey 
Workabout System Screen and Command 
Processor, C-5 
Psion-T hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-4 
Workabout Command Processor, C-4 
Psion-Tab hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-5 
Workabout System Screen and Command 
Processor, C-7 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Psion-U hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-4 
Workabout System Screen, C-4 
Psion-V hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-4 
Workabout System Screen, C-5 
Psion-W hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-5 
Workabout Command Processor, C-5 
Psion-X hotkey 
Workabout System Screen, C-5 
Psion-Y hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-5 
QBASIC 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-29 
QUIT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-29 
Workabout command, 3-20 
RD 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-30 
Workabout command, 3-21 
REASON 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-30 
Workabout command, 3-21 
REM 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-30 
Workabout command, 3-21 
REN 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-30 
Workabout command, 3-22 
REPLACE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-31 
reset cold 
Workabout, 1-10 
reset hard 
Workabout, 1-10 
reset soft 
Workabout, 1-10 
RESTORE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-31 
RESUME 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-31 
RMDIR 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-31 
Workabout command, 3-22 
ROM components 
Workabout, 1-9 
RS232 / bar code interface module 
specification, A-4 
RS232 / RS232 TTL interface module 
specification, A-3 
running programs 
Workabout, 3-3 


S$SVER 
environment variable Workabout, 2-10 
SCANDISK 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-31 
screen 
Workabout, 1-6 
screen display pausing 
Workabout, 3-6 
serial numbers 
Workabout, A-2 
Series 3a/c and Workabout 
system screen differences, C-1 
SET 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-32 
Workabout command, 3-22 
SETDATE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-32 
SETDEF 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-32 
SETVER 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-33 
SHARE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-33 
SHEET 
Workabout command, 3-24 
SHELL 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-33 
shell replacing 
Workabout, 2-4 
SHIFT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-33 
Workabout command, 3-24 
Shift-Psion-D hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-2 
Shift-Psion-E hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-2 
Shift-Psion-F hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-3 
Workabout System Screen, C-3 
Shift-Psion-M hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-3 
Shift-Psion-N hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-3 
Shift-Psion-O hotkey 
Siena System Screen, C-6 
Shift-Psion-S hotkey 
Workabout CommandProcessor, C-4 
Workabout System Screen, C-4 
Shift-Psion-System hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-7 
Shift-Psion-Tab hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-5 
Workabout System Screen and Command 
Processor, C-6 
Shift-Psion-V hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-5 


Shift-System hotkey 
S3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-7 
SHIFT-TASK hotkey 
HC, C-7 
SMARTDRV 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-34 
soft reset 
Workabout, 1-10 
software customisation 
Workabout, 2-3 
SORT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-34 
sound 
differences in SIBO systems, C-1 
Workabout, 1-8 
Special menu 
Series 3a/c System Screen, C-10 
Siena System Screen, C-10 
Workabout Command Processor, C-10 
Workabout System Screen, C-10 
specification technical 
docking station Workabout, A-10 
RS232 / bar code interface module, A-4 
RS232 / RS232 TTL interface module, A-3 
Vehicle Interface Cradle (VIC), A-5 
VIC (1 port and vehicle power option), A-7 
VIC (3 port and vehicle power option), A-6 
VIC conventional 9-Pin RS232 serial ports, 
A-9 
VIC extended 15-way RS232 serial port, 
A-9 
VIC mounting bracket, A-8 
VIC Psion LIF connector, A-9 
VIC vehicle power input connector, A-8 
Workabout, A-1 
SSD drives 
Workabout, 1-3 
START 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-34 
Workabout command, 3-25 
start up SSD 
Workabout, 1-2 
startup shell 
Workabout, 1-2, 2-3 
STOP 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-34 
Workabout command, 3-25 
SUBMENU 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-35 
SUBST 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-35 
SUSPEND 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-35 
Switch task 
key press, C-7 
synchronous programs 
Workabout, 3-4 


INDEX 


SYS 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-35 
sys$cmdp.img 
Workabout, 1-9, 2-4 
sys$ctry.cfo 
Workabout, 1-9 
sys$ctry.int 
Workabout, 1-9 
sys$gsys.cmdp 
Workabout, 1-9 
sys$gsys.img 
Workabout, 2-4 
sys$shll.img 
Workabout, 1-9, 2-3, 2-4 
sys$wsrv.img 
Workabout, 2-3 
system interfaces multiple 
Workabout, 3-6 
system screen 
adding applications Workabout, 2-4 
differences Series 3a/c and Workabout, C-1 
differences Workabout and Series 3a/c, C-1 
replacing Workabout, 2-4 
Workabout, 1-2, 1-9 
TASK hotkey 
HC, C-7 
Task switch 
forwards 
Series 3a/c and Siena, C-7 


Task switch backwards 
HC, C-7 
Series 3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-7 
Task switch forwards 
HC, C-7 
Workabout System Screen and Command 
Processor, C-7 
TERMINATE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-35 
TIME 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-36 
Workabout command, 3-25 
Time menu 
Series 3a/c and Siena System Screen, C-11 
Workabout Command Processor, C-11 
Workabout System Screen, C-11 
TREE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-36 
TYPE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-36 
Workabout command, 3-26 
UNDELETE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-36 
UNFORMAT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-37 
user interface 
Workabout, 2-2 


WORKABOUT PROGRAMMING GUIDE 


Vehicle Interface Cradle (VIC) 
specification, A-5 
VER 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-37 
Workabout command, 3-26 
VERIFY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-37 
VIC (Vehicle Interface Cradle) 
1 port and vehicle power option, A-7 
3 port and vehicle power option, A-6 


conventional 9-Pin RS232 serial ports, A-9 


extended 15-way RS232 serial port, A-9 
mounting bracket, A-8 
Psion LIF Connector, A-9 
specification, A-5 
vehicle power input connector, A-8 
VOL 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-37 
Workabout command, 3-26 
VSAFE 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-38 
WAIT 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-38 
Workabout command, 3-26 
wildcards 
in Workabout file specification, 3-8 
window server 
Workabout, 2-3 
WNOTIFY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-38 
Workabout 
add files, 2-7 
adding system screen applications, 2-4 
ALM no access, 2-7 
autoexec file, 2-5 
autoexec.btf, 1-2 
basic hardware, 1-2 
basic software, 1-8 
batch file processing, 3-3 
clock rate, 1-3 
cold reset, 1-10 
command line editor, 3-5 
command processor, 1-2, 1-9, 3-1 
command processor menus, 3-1 
command syntax, 3-8 
command syntax restrictions, 3-8 
commands alphabetic listing, 3-8 
communications ports, 1-4 
connecting, 1-11 
connecting hardware, 1-11 
connecting software, 1-11 
customising, 1-10 
customising hardware, 1-10 
customising software, 1-11 
data integrity, 2-6 
directory current, 3-6 
docking station (Cradle), 1-4 
docking station battery pack slot, 1-4 


viii 


environment variables - specific, 2-10 
events, 2-2 

file in use error, 3-6 

file names in command line, 3-7 
files and directories, 3-6 

font sizes, 3-2 

fonts, 1-9 

fuse, 1-6 

hard reset, 1-10 

hardware interrupts, 3-21 

holster, 1-4 

introduction to, 1-1 

keyboard, 1-7 

keys special, 1-7 

lithium battery, 1-6 

non system screen applications, 2-6 
opl.dyl, 1-9 

oplts3.dyl, 1-9 

path default, 3-6 

path in command line, 3-7 
pausing screen display, 3-6 

power supplies, 1-4 

program launching, 3-3 
programming, 2-1 

programming choices, 2-1 
programming examples, 2-8 
programming examples Lcdtest, 2-10 
programming examples tables, 2-8 
programming guidelines, 2-6 
programs asynchronous, 3-4 
programs synchronous, 3-4 

RAM internal, 1-3 

ROM, 1-3 

ROM components, 1-9 

screen, 1-6 

serial numbers, A-2 

soft reset, 1-10 

software customisation, 2-3 
sound, 1-8 

specification, A-1 

SSDs, 1-3 

start up SSD, 1-2 

startup shell, 1-2, 2-3 
synchronous or asynchronous, 2-2 
sys$cmdp.img, 1-9, 2-4 
sys$ctry.cfo, 1-9 

sys$ctry.int, 1-9 

sys$gsys.cmdp, 1-9 

sys$gsys.img, 2-4 

sys$shll.img, 1-9, 2-3, 2-4 
sys$wsrv.img, 2-3 

system interfaces multiple, 3-6 
system screen, 1-2, 1-9 
terminating programs, 3-4 

user interface, 2-2 

wildcards in file specification, 3-8 
WLD no access, 2-7 


Workabout and Series 3a/c 


system screen differences, C-1 


Workabout bar code reader 


conversion of old HC reader, A-5 


Workabout command 


ATTRIB, 3-9 
CALC, 3-9 


INDEX 


CALL, 3-9 


ERRLEVEL, 3-14 
EXIT, 3-14 
FILES, 3-14 
FOR, 3-15 
FORMAT, 3-15 
GOTO, 3-15 
HELP, 3-15 

IF, 3-16 

KILL, 3-16 
LABEL, 3-16 
LINK, 3-17 
LLDEV, 3-17 
LPDEV, 3-18 
LPROC, 3-18 
LSEG, 3-19 
MD, 3-20 
MEM, 3-20 
MKDIR, 3-20 
PAUSE, 3-20 


START, 3-25 
STOP, 3-25 
TIME, 3-25 
TYPE, 3-26 
VER, 3-26 
VOL, 3-26 
WAIT, 3-26 
Workabout command processor 
differences from system screen, C-1 
Workabout Docking Station 
specification, A-10 
Workabout processor 
NEC V30H, 1-3 
Workabout special keys 
batch file processing, 3-5 
command line editor, 3-5 
Workabout system screen 
differences from command processor, C-1 
XCOPY 
command differences - HC - Workabout 
and MS-DOS, B-38 


