C O L O S S U S THE "STATE OF THE ART" BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE FOR THE IBM PERSONAL COMPUTER COPYRIGHT, 1985 BY THE FORBIN PROJECT & DAN P. PLUNKETT NOVEMBER 15th, 1985 COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1 1.1 IMPORTANT NOTICE 1 1.2 DISCLAIMER 1 1.3 COPYRIGHT NOTICE 2 1.4 CREDITS 2 2.0 COLOSSUS HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS 2 2.1 MODEMS 2 2.2 MODEM SWITCHES 3 2.3 NUMERIC RESULT CODES 3 3.0 COLOSSUS FILES 3 3.1 SYSTEM FILES 3 3.2 HELP FILES 4 3.3 MENU FILES 4 3.4 MESSAGE FILES 5 3.5 WELCOME FILES 5 3.6 BULLETIN FILES 5 3.7 OTHER SUPPORT FILES 6 4.0 THE COMMAND LINE 6 4.1 DEFINITIONS 7 4.2 EXAMPLES 9 4.3 BATCH FILES 10 5.0 GETTING STARTED 10 5.1 DEFAULT DRIVE 10 5.2 CONFIG.SYS FILE REQUIRED 10 5.3 RUNNING COLOSSUS THE FIRST TIME 11 5.4 SETTING UP THE SYSTEM FILES 12 6.0 USING THE QUESTIONNAIRE 14 7.0 COLOSSUS NETWORKING 16 7.1 NET-MAIL DESCRIPTION 16 7.2 GETTING A NET/NODE NUMBER ASSIGNED 18 7.3 HOW IS THE NET/NODE SYSTEM ORGANIZED? 18 7.4 NET-MAIL OPERATION 19 8.0 THE FUNCTION KEYS 20 8.1 DEFINITIONS: 20 9.0 THE ALT KEYS 22 9.1 AVAILABLE KEYS 22 9.2 DEFINITIONS 22 10.0 MAIN MENU EXPLAINED 27 10.1 MAIN MENU EXAMPLE 27 10.2 EXPLANATION 27 11.0 MESSAGE MENU (MMS) EXPLAINED 29 11.1 MESSAGE MENU EXAMPLE 29 11.2 EXPLANATION 29 COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 12.0 FILE MENU EXPLAINED 30 12.1 FILE MENU EXAMPLE 30 12.2 EXPLANATION 30 13.0 SYSOP MENU EXPLAINED 31 13.1 SYSOP MENU EXAMPLE 32 13.2 EXPLANATION 32 14.0 THE SYSOP'S "UPDATE MENU" EXPLAINED 34 14.1 UPDATE MENU EXAMPLE 34 14.2 EXPLANATION 34 15.0 COLOSSUS TECHNICAL REFERENCE INFORMATION 36 15.1 RECORD STRUCTURE FOR "USERS.BBS" 36 16.0 LATEST COLOSSUS UPDATES 36 16.1 COLOSSUS PROGRAM UPDATES 36 COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985 1.0 INTRODUCTION Colossus is a bulletin board program written in Borland's Turbo Pascal. Designed on an IBM Personal Computer, Colossus is compatible with the IBM PCjr and other IBM "Compatibles" like the Tandy 1000. Colossus is distributed under the "Userware" concept. You are encouraged to distribute this software to others as long as you DO NOT charge, in any shape or form, for this program. 1.1 IMPORTANT NOTICE Thank you for taking the time and expense of obtaining Colossus. We're sure after you've had a chance to look Colossus over, you'll agree it is a powerful bulletin board program which combines both speed and finesse. This program, like many others is distributed under the "Userware" concept. Since Colossus is not a program which appeals to a mass market, like a communications program for example, we depend on you --- the lonely Sysop --- to support our undertaking. It's important to note that in all actually very few users of Public Domain programs ever send the author their registration or donation. Being a Sysop, your rewards for running your board are often a simple "Thanks". I hope after you've used Colossus, and have chosen it over the many other programs available, you'll show your support by a simple donation. We could of offered gimmicks like full documentation, telephone support, etc.. for registration. We didn't, instead we're depending on you, the sysops', to help keep our program growing by showing your support by sending in your registration. Many of you will have Colossus running 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. This is more than other program you'll use, during this use we're confident we'll earn your support. Registration is easy. Send a $50.00 (or more) donation to the author: Mr. Dan Plunkett 9526 Ashbourn Drive Burke, VA 22015 In either case feel free to distribute Colossus freely and send us any comments or suggestion via net mail. 1.2 DISCLAIMER The Forbin Project and all other authors associated with the writing or evolution of Colossus are not responsible for any damage done to hardware/software/other peripherals by Colossus during running. All responsibility lies with the operator. COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985 1.3 COPYRIGHT NOTICE Colossus is a Copyright of The Forbin Project and Dan P. Plunkett. Colossus and affiliate programs distributed with it are not to be modified or distributed without the expressed written consent of The Forbin Project or Dan P. Plunkett. Colossus is NOT to be sold or used for or with illegal intentions under the penalty of law. 1.4 CREDITS Many hours have gone into the development of Colossus. Not just with writing code, but finding bugs, changing formats and testing things like the Networking and File area. A lot of these tests were done while running up healthy phone bills just so Colossus could be brought to you. Press Page Up to see a note from the author regarding credits. We would like to mention some of these people here: Dan Plunkett John Friel III Jim Harrer Scott Hunter Plus the many BETA TESTERS! Thanks guys for your help! 2.0 COLOSSUS HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS The following are considered the minimum "Baseline" requirements: A. 128K Memory B. One Disk Drive C. Modem D. Monitor 2.1 MODEMS Colossus automatically determines your incoming callers baud rate. In order for this to work, your modem must be able to send numeric result codes, support the Hays Command Set, and support DTR (Data Terminal Ready). The following modems have been tested to work with Colossus and are believed to be compatible: A. Qubie Internal/External B. Rixon PC212A Internal/External C. US Robotics Courier 2400 & Model 312 D. All Hayes E. Prometheus COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985 2.2 MODEM SWITCHES Your modem switches should be set as follows: 1. DTR Normal (UP) 2. Display numeric result codes (Down) 3. Result codes displayed (Down) 4. Modem does not echo. (Down) 5. Auto answer is on. (UP) 6. Carrier Detect is Normal. (UP) 7. Single phone line. (UP) 8. AT Command set is normal. (Down) 9. Escape Code (+++) will not disconnect. (Down) The above setting are provided as a reference only, your modem switches may differ. 2.3 NUMERIC RESULT CODES Colossus determines the incoming calls by receiving the numeric result code from your modem when the modem establishes carrier detect. Check your (Modem) owners manual for these numeric codes. As space permits we will list some of the more popular modems below. Note, these codes need to be place in your Colossus configure file when you run Colossus. Colossus defaults to the ARK 2400 listed below: USR COURIER 2400: ARK 2400 : 300 Baud # 1 300B # 11 1200 Baud # 5 1200B # 5 2400 Baud # 10 2400B # 10 3.0 COLOSSUS FILES There are several files that compose and allow Colossus to function. The first group are System Files, think of System Files as mandatory files that must be resident weather in your main Colossus directory or in a Ram disk. These programs are accessed by Colossus often during program operation. The rest of the files are Support files, and even though are not required, I'm sure you'll find them invaluable in your operation. 3.1 SYSTEM FILES Colossus.COM - Main System Program Colossus.000 - 1st System Overlay File Colossus.001 - 2nd System Overlay File Colossus.002 - 3rd System Overlay File COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985 3.2 HELP FILES You may edit these to fit your own personal taste. Main .HLP - Main Menu Help File MMS .HLP - Message Menu Help FIle Files .HLP - Files Menu Help File Sysop .HLP - Sysop Menu Help File Protocol.HLP - Extra help with Uploads/Downloads 3.3 MENU FILES Menu files contain all the information need to allow Colossus to dynamically build each callers Menu depending on their security level. Colossus displays a function only if a callers security level is high enough to access it. Therefore, a caller doesn't necessary see everything in a menu. This places you in control and allows you to tailor your board for your own individual needs. The format used is: Command, Command Description,,Security Level, Identifier Knowing the above, lets use the following example: B,ulletins,,5,A --- The "B" is the Command. This will be the letter your caller must type to access Bulletins. --- "ulletins" is your Command Description. This is how your description will be displayed in your menu body. --- "5" is the minimum Security Level required to see this function and allowed to access it. --- "A" is the Colossus Command Identifier (CCI) and should NEVER be changed. The CCI is constant in Colossus's programing. With one quick look, you'll realize that Colossus allows you to design your menus to suite your own personal taste. The only rule is.... you CAN NOT change the Command Identifier (CCI). Therefore, if you wanted, you could change Bulletins to read: P,
eg Board,,5,A
Or, Better yet...
A,nouncements,,5,A
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
3.3 MENU FILES Con't
Just remember, Never change the CCI (the last character on the
Command Line) and you can not use the same two Command Letters
in the same menu.
Colossus uses the following Menu Files:
Main .MNU - Main Menu
MMS .MNU - Message Menu
Files .MNU - Files Menu
Sysop .MNU - Sysop Menu
Update.MNU - Sysop System Menu
You can use EDLIN or a Word Processor like PC-Write to edit
these files.
3.4 MESSAGE/USERS FILES
The following files are created by Colossus and uses as system
files. If they are not found, they are created.
Messages .BBS - All messages are contained here.
Messages .PTR - Message pointers for scans, etc.
Users .BBS - Users profile & statistics
3.5 WELCOME FILES
You can use your favorite Word Processor, EDLIN, or any one of
several programs designed to make Graphic Welcome Screens.
Even though these files are not mandatory, they give your board
originality.
Welcome1 .BBS - The first screen displayed when
callers first connect.
Welcome2 .BBS - The second screen displayed after
your caller logs-in.
3.6 BULLETIN FILES
Bulletin files are designed the same way the welcome files are
created; either by using EDLIN or a Word Processor.
Bulletin .BBS - Main Bulletin screen, lists the
available bulletins.
BULLETx .BBS - Where x = 1-99. This number should
correspond to your bulletin listed
in bulletin.BBS
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
3.7 OTHER SYSTEM FILES
You may also add the following files to your system:
Edtorial .BBS - File which is shown to callers
when they request the Editorial
from the main menu.
Goodbye .BBS - This file is displayed when a
caller logs off the system.
Files .BBS - Used in the File Sub-Directory
for listing files available for
download in that area.
(See "Creating File Areas")
Quotes .BBS - Quote for the day for your callers
during log-on.
Alt-A .BBS - Dumps this file to the screen and
logs the caller off and LOCKS him
out on future calls. Works great
problem callers. (Jim's favorite)
300 .BBS - Dumps this file to callers
300 baud callers when 300 baud
callers are not allowed. Displayed
only when /3 is on the Command line
C .BAT - Batch file used to invoke Colossus
and has the necessary commands for
remote dropping to DOS for the SYSOP.
Remote .BAT - Required if you want to drop to DOS
from remote.
4.0 THE COMMAND LINE
The Command Line (CL) can be used to make Colossus start-up with
different parameters. It is used at the DOS Prompt, when you
boot Colossus
/C - Define the CD Mask
/D - Set the Daily Time Limit
/F - Set the Time Limit for First-Time Callers
/L - Set Logon Time Limit (amt. of time per logon)
/K - Set Daily Download Limit in amount of K
/2 - Use the Com2 Port
/P - Mandatory first-time caller Phone Number
/R - Invoke a Pre-Registered System
/W - Allow Sysops' to drop to DOS
/S - Default Security Level
/Q - Mandatory first-time caller Questionnaire
/U - Activate your Quote inserted file at sign-on
/3 - Disallows 300 baud callers.
/M - Modem Type.
/I - Initialize the Modem (For Ark Modems)
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
4.1 DEFINITIONS:
/Cx (x=1,2,4,8,16,32,64,128,256)
--------------------------------
This Switch tells Colossus where the bit the Carrier Detect
[CD] is located on your modem. If you have one of the KNOWN
supported modems listed in the Hardware Needs section, do not
use this. First try Colossus without this option. Then, if it
does not answer the phone when called, then find out your CD
MASK, and put it in. Colossus default to 128 which is used on
the more popular modems. A CD carrier detect bit located at
bit 64 would be:
COLOSSUS /C64
/Dx (x=1 to any #)
------------------
This switch sets the Daily Time Limit for all callers. The
default Daily Time Limit is 60 minutes. If a user uses all of
his Daily Time Limit for a particular day, he will be logged off
and will not be able to log back on. If the /Dx switch is not
used, then it is set to 60 minutes. If a user has a 60 minute
Daily Time Limit, he could sign on the system as many times as
he wanted until the 60 minutes was used up, or until a day had
passed. The following will set the Daily Time Limit to 100
minutes:
COLOSSUS /D100
/Fx (x=1 to any #)
------------------
The /Fx switch sets the First-Time Caller Time Limit. If you
wish to have a new caller have a lower time limit, then you can
set that time with this switch. If you wish, you can set the
First Time Caller Limit the same as the Logon Limit [see below]
so a new- user has the same amount of time as a veteran caller.
If the Fx switch is not specified used, then it is automatically
set to 30 minutes. The following will set the First Time Caller
Limit to 45 minutes:
COLOSSUS /F45
/Lx (x=1 to any #)
------------------
This switch sets the Time Limit per Logon. If the Daily Limit is
set to 100 minutes, and the Logon Limit is set to 50 minutes,
the user could use 2 full log-ons. This means a user can use 100
minutes that day, but only 50 minutes maximum for each logon. If
not specified used, the Logon Time Limit will set to 45 minutes.
The following will set the Logon Time Limit to 86 minutes:
COLOSSUS /L86
/Kx (x=1 to any number)
-----------------------
This switch sets the amount (in thousands of bytes (K)) a user
may download in one day. If he uses more than his limit, he
will not be able to download any more files that day. If not
specified used, the K Limit would be set to 1000. The following
will set the K Limit to 200k.
COLOSSUS /K200
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
4.1 COMMAND LINE DEFINITIONS Con't
/2
--
If used, this switch will tell Colossus to use the Com2 port.
Only use this if your modem is installed on Com Port 2.
/P
--
This switch will set Colossus to ask all first-time callers for
their home phone number.
/Rx (x=Nul, 1, 2, or 3)
-----------------------
This switch will set Colossus to a RESTRICTED system. There are
also 4 options to set up a restricted system. Here is a list of
the available options for the /R command:
Nul(just enter /R): Restricted System.
1 : First-Time Caller is forced into to leave a comment when he
gets to the Main Menu (but he can bort it w/o leaving
one).
2 : First-Time Caller is forced to fill out a Questionnaire when
he gets to the Main Menu.
3 : Immediate log-off
/W
--
This switch allows remote sysops' to drop to dos. By invoking
this switch, a remote sysop can sign on his own system and, by
entering a specific command, can then drop to dos.
/S
--
This switch allows the Sysop to set his default Security Level
for First-Time Callers. The default security level is 5 if this
switch is not used. The below would set a user's security level
to 12 upon signing on for the first time:
/S12
/Q
--
Using this switch will force a first-time caller to fill-out a
questionnaire before entering the system. As you may have
noticed, this is also an option for a RESTRICTED system. This
can be used with a Public System.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
4.1 COMMAND LINE DEFINITIONS Con't
/U
--
Activates Quotes.BBS; this file displays a different quote each
time a user signs on.
/3
--
If you want to limit your board to callers with 1200 or higher
speed modems, you can restrict access so 300 baud callers
receive a message "300 baud is not allowed at this time". Also if
you have the file 300.BBS available, that file will be dumped to
the screen too.
/M(1)
--------
A few modem require special treatment so Colossus can send them
Off-Hook when used locally, or dial other systems when its time
for Net-Mail. For this reason we have set up the following
switches for these modem (Note, if your modem is not listed then
chances are it doesn't require anything special):
/M1 = Rixon PC212A
NOTE: As our experience grows with all the different modems
available, we have the ability to add special modem commands to
fit your needs. If you can't get your modem to respond correctly
tells us about your modem type, and we'll try to help!
/I(300,1200,2400)
-----------------
Ark 2400 Modems must me initialized at 2400 baud in order for them
to receive 2400 baud calls. Therefore we have added a switch to
do this. As we have more experience with all the different
modems, this switch may, or may not, be need for modems
manufactured other than ARK. ARK 2400 owners must put the
following on the command line:
/I2400
4.2 COMMAND LINE EXAMPLES
A>COLOSSUS /D60 /L40 /K350 /P
These switches may be used in any order, and none must be used.
The following will set your system [in order] with a 60 minute
Daily Time Limit, 40 minute Logon Limit, 350k download limit,
and a First-Time Caller must enter his phone number before
entering the system. Enter your command line from the DOS prompt.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
4.3 BATCH FILES
It is advisable to use a batch file when running Colossus. Here
are some advantages:
- If an error occurs, it will reset with a batch file - If
there is an power outage, batch files could set up Colossus
again. - Helpful for using the Command Line
Of course batch files are not a MUST, but we recommend them. I
use a batch file called C.BAT on my system that invokes
Colossus; it is the following:
CTTY CON
COLOSSUS /S10 /D100 /L60 /F45 /W
C.BAT
This will set Colossus up with the proper parameters we
discussed in the Command Line section, and, if for any reason
Colossus drops to DOS, it will reboot itself. Batch files can
be named any legal DOS name, but must have a .BAT extension.
5.0 GETTING STARTED
If your like I was, what you really want to do is put the
Documentation aside, and get started running Colossus. Well
lets do just that, as you begin to get comfortable with the
operating system, you can refer back to this guide to further
explain in detail some of the features available in Colossus.
5.1 DEFAULT DRIVE
If you using a disk drive system, then you'll want to have all
the Colossus files located in drive A. Later after you find
your way around, you can set up Colossus so the Overlays and
other files can be located in a Ram Disk. But for now lets have
all the files resident in drive A.
If your running from a hard disk, then make a main Sub-Directory
for Colossus. Place all your Colossus files in this Sub-directory.
5.2 CONFIG.SYS FILE REQUIRED
As you begin running Colossus, we feel you will quickly agree it's
just plan FAST! Colossus is a complicated Communications program
which requires several files being opened at the same time. For
this reason, you'll need to have the following files and buffers
set in your Config.Sys files located on your root directory. If
you are unfamiliar with how Config.sys works, consult your DOS
directory, or ask any Colossus Beta Testers.
CONFIG.SYS should have the following settings:
DEVICE=FILES20
DEVICE=BUFFERS50
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
5.3 RUNNING COLOSSUS THE FIRST TIME
After you have all the Colossus files located on your default
drive, all you have to do, to get things running is type:
"Colossus" at your DOS Prompt. (Quotes not needed)
A>Colossus (Note just enter the word "Colossus")
The first thing you see is the registration screen, you have
registered your copy haven't you? If not, or you lose the
address where you can send your $50 bucks, we remind you here!
You'll also notice that Colossus has been dedicated to Ms. Dorothy
Stratten. In everyone's life, if your lucky, there is one person
who touches you in a special way, for Dan Plunkett, that person
was Ms. Stratten. For her epitaph press your arrow (cursor) up key.
For a quick listing of your keyboard commands press HOME for
your help listing.
Next you'll see Colossus loading-up and building your System
files. Now when you see the prompt "Colossus ready for calls
at....".
At this point, lets set up your configuration file. This is done
by holding down the ALT key AND pressing the F key (we refer to
this action as ALT+F). You should see:
Parameter Default
1. Messages must be proofed before users can read them.....No
2. Batch (Telink) protocol is available to users...........Yes
3. Colossus Node #..........................................0
4. Colossus Net #...........................................0
5. Alternate Node #.........................................0
6. Alternate Net #..........................................0
7. Should Colossus make long-distance calls at mail time?...No
8. All messages must be public..............................No
9. Security level to be considered a SYSOP..................50
A. Drive/Path for overlay files.............................\
B. Character (s) returned for 300 baud connect..............11
C. Character (s) returned for 1200 baud connect.............5
D. Character (s) returned for 2400 baud connect.............10
You need to change any defaults to match your configuration , see
section 9.2 for a complete explanation for the above.
When your finished entering all the above information, press the
ESC key to save your changes and return you to Colossus.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
Next to sign-on locally you need to hold down the ALT Key and
type the letter "S". Colossus will place your modem "Off
Hook" and prompt you for your First Name. Now, since your the
Sysop you can simply type SYSOP at the prompt and continue. If
you prefer to use your own name then you can do that also, just
keep in mind this is how you'll be signing on locally to do
Sysop Maintenance. Also, when you send a message, this will be
the Name imbedded in the FROM column in the message area. Lets
assume you just enter Sysop. Next it will prompt you for you
last name, and tap the return (or Enter) key. The last prompt
is to see, if everything is correct. Finish entering the info
until you get to the Main Menu.
Now that your at the Main Menu, hold down the Alt key and type
the letter "N" (ALT+N). You should see "Enter New Security
level" at this point enter 999 this will give you high enough
security level to access the SYSOP Utilities. Now, hit the
return key once and you'll see the Main Menu reappear, this
time with the tilities for Sysop listed.
5.4 SETTING UP THE SYSTEM FILES
The very next thing we must do is configure the System files.
To do this we must type 'U' at the Main Menu for "Utilities for
the Sysop." Next you'll see the Sysop Menu which includes "<4>
Update System Files." Select #4 and type return.
Next, the Update Menu will appear which looks like this:
Update Menu:
Net message system toggle Net file system toggle
age the Sysop tilities for the Sysop
age the Sysop:
Page the Sysop for 20 seconds if the Sysop has his page function
(F4) on. If the function is OFF the callers receives "Sysop not
available."
rint Users File assword, assword -- is for changing a callers password
rint Users File:
Prints the callers file to the printer. Be sure to have your
printer toggle "Lptr" light on.
>Help!
Displays the contents of the file "Sysop.HLP"
14.0 THE SYSOP'S "UPDATE" MENU EXPLAINED
The Update Menu is mainly used in setting up Colossus for the
first time or changing some of your boards Message and Files
areas. Once you have set up a few area, it will all fall into
place.
14.1 UPDATE MENU EXAMPLE
Update Menu:
Net message system toggle Net file system toggle
uit to MAIN MENU
ave system file pload Path
Lets start off by creating the first system file. This is done
by selecting 'C' for "Create/read a system files", Colossus will
respond with "System Number:" respond by typing 1 and return.
Colossus will respond with creating system record # 1. Now to
get an understanding how this is set up, type L for "List system
file". You'll see the following:
System Record #1
Message security..0
File security.....0
Upload Path.......
Download Path.....
Msg description...
File description..
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
At this point, some general explanations are in order. Each
system record contains the minimum security level required for a
caller to access the files and message board associated with that
system record.
The Upload & Download path are any legal DOS commands telling
Colossus where it can find the files associated with the file
description. You can set uploads to go into an "Upload file"
area or by subject. Here are a few examples of upload/download
paths:
The Following would send all the uploads to a sub-directory
called "Uploads" and allow the caller to download programs from a
sub-directory called "Games". Note: Colossus is the root
directory:
Upload Path.......C:\Colossus\Uploads
Download Path.....C:\Colossus\Games
The next example would send both uploads and downloads to the
same sub-directory:
Upload Path.......C:\Colossus\Games
Download Path.....C:\Colossus\Games
If your running on a disk drive system with your uploads and
download files on drive B, and not using sub-directories, you
could do the following:
Upload Path.......B:
Download Path.....B:
Lastly, you need to select the titles for these areas which will
be displayed when the caller wants to see the different
message and file area available on your board.
Other options include toggling a message or file area for net-
working.
When your done, and the record is the way you want it, be sure to
save the record before continuing on.
Also, a system record doesn't need to contain BOTH a File AND
Message area. You can have a File area and no Message board
assigned to that record. Simply set the message security high
enough so the caller can't access it.
IMPORTANT NOTE: WHEN YOUR FINISHED SETTING UP ALL THE SYSTEM
FILES, BE SURE TO RETURN TO THE MAIN MENU, SIGN-OFF (Goodbye),
THEN YOU MAY SIGN BACK ON. By signing off, is allows Colossus to
close all the files and set up the message area. Failure to do
this may cause a critical error when you enter the message area
for the first time.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
6.0 USING THE QUESTIONNAIRE
Colossus uses a simple procedure to generate the Questionnaire.
If a callers selects uestionnaire from the Main Menu, and you
do not have a file called Question.BBS on the root directory,
your caller will receive the following message:
"Sorry, No questionnaire today"
However, we recommend if you are not going to have a
Questionnaire on you bulletin board, you simply raise the access
level high enough in the Main.Mnu so the prompt will not even
show in the menu. This keeps the screen clean, and will not
confuse your callers (or waste their long distance dollars).
Questionnaires are simple text files that are interpreted by
Colossus. There is a very simple line oriented pseudo language
that interprets these scripts. There are only a couple of
"commands", and only two crude conditionals.
The answers to the questionnaire are put in a separate file,
without the questions. They are also normal ASCII text, but in a
fixed field format with field characters, to make post-
processing of the questionnaire easier.
The questionnaire consists of two files:
QUESTION.BBS The questionnaire script
ANSWERS.BBS The answers
Answers are appended to the end of the answer file; it is create
first if it does not exist.
The first character of each line tells Colossus what to do with
the line. This first character is a normal printable character.
If the first character is not one of the known commands, the
line is merely displayed.
The questionnaire commands are:
/
uestionnaire
tatistics <#>List active users
tatistics:
Displays the date Colossus first started running, number of
messages currently in the message are and the current system date
and time.
uestionnaire:
Invokes the questionnaire, QUESTION.BBS. Answers are placed in
the file called ANSWERS.BBS. You must drop to DOS (ALT+D) to
read these answers using either the TYPE or COPY command.
tilities for the Sysop:
Transfers to the Sysop Menu.
<#>List active users - Displays the users name, last date & time
called, and city and state they reside.
>Help with commands:
Displays MAIN.HLP which contains a brief explanation of all the
commands.
User Status:
Allows the caller to change their password or location, plus few
their vital statistics.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
11.0 MESSAGE MENU (MMS) EXPLAINED
The message menu is where all of you callers will visit to
partake in mail interaction. The first time they visit this area
Colossus will check to see if they have any NEW messages since
there last date called. If they do, Colossus will ask them if
they wish there mail to be MARKED for reading later. If the
caller selects this option, call their mail is flagged and when
they select the
can Messages
uit to MAIN MENU
uit to MAIN MENU:
Transfer to the Main Menu.
can Messages:
Scans message number, date written, to, from, subject, and board
number.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
tatistics of Files uit to MAIN MENU
12.2 EXPLANATION
tatistics of Files:
Displays the available disk space for uploads, total number of
Upload & Download kilobytes. Also, if the callers has uploaded
any files, Colossus will display the ratio of Uploads to
Downloads.
uit to MAIN MENU:
Transfer to the Main Menu.
13.0 SYSOP MENU EXPLAINED
Almost all the Sysop utilities are contained in Colossus. No
external program are need to do normal day to day maintenance.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
13.1 SYSOP MENU EXAMPLE
Sysop Menu:
<1>List active events <2>Create events
<3>Update Events <4>Update system files
<5>Modify users <6>List Comments
<7>List Callers Log <8>Pack users file
<9>Pack Messages files Delete Comments
Delete Callers file
uit to MAIN MENU
>Help!
13.2 EXPLANATION
<1>List active events:
Lists the current evens set in the scheduler. Displays the event
number, starting time, window length, schedule letter
designation, and displays whether it is ENABLED or DISABLED.
<2>Create events:
Colossus is a time driven program. One of Colossus's main goals
is to be maintenance free (or require very little upkeep on the
part of the Sysop). The scheduler is the function which keeps
track of all the duties to be perform.
When you select this function, Colossus will prompt you for the
event number. These numbers must be in chronological order (i.e.,
1,2,3,4, etc..). After you have selected a number, net you'll
need to enter the starting time. This time MUST BE ENTERED IN
MILITARY TIME with the hour and minutes separated by a colon.
For example 3:15pm would be entered as 15:15, or 4:00am would be
entered as 04:00.
Next Colossus will ask for the Window length, simple put, this is
the time you would like the event to last in MINUTES. So a
window length of 60 minutes would be entered as 60.
Next you need to tell Colossus which days you want the even to
happen. You may select Monday thru Sunday or All. Below is the
chart for easy reference:
0 = SUNDAY 2 = TUESDAY 4 = THURSDAY 6 = SATURDAY
1 = MONDAY 3 = WEDNESDAY 5 = FRIDAY 7 = ALL DAYS
Last is the schedule event (A..Z). As of this writing, the
following events may be activated:
SCHEDULE "A" : Net-Mail (See section 7.0)
SCHEDULE "Z" : Auto Pack Messages, invokes the pack
messages routine, the same as #9 from
the Sysop Menu.
<3>Update Events:
Allows you to update evens which have ALREADY been created. You
may Enable, Disable, Remove an event and also quit. your choice
is displayed as
uit.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
<4>Update system files:
See section 5.3 "Setting up the System Files"
<5>Modify users:
Is the area where you'll perform most of your Sysop Maintenance.
When you select this function, your first user record is
displayed. The format is as follows:
#1 Name: SYSOP
Calling From: Bakersfield, CA
Password: GreatProgram
Last Called: 9 Nov 85 15:10 Credit: 0 Pending: 0
Security: 50 Uploads: 0 Downloads: 0
ecurity,uit?
ecurity -- change a callers security level
uit ----- return to the Sysop Menu
<6>List Comments:
List comments left by callers from the Main Menu.
<7>List Callers Log:
Displays the most recent callers log-on, and activity.
<8>Pack users file:
Packs the user file. Purges the callers marked for deletion.
<9>Pack Messages files:
Packs the message file. Purges the messages marked as killed.
Delete Comments:
Deletes the Comments file.
Delete Callers file:
Deletes the Callers log.
uit to MAIN MENU:
Returns you back to the Main Menu.
uit to MAIN MENU
ave system file pload Path
14.2 EXPLANATION
Net message system toggle:
When a message area is used as your Net-Mail section, this
function will flag the message area for Net-Mail transactions.
When a message area is flagged as the Net-Mail section, a "*"
will be placed next to the Message description when the boards
are listed from the message menu. This function will place the
comment "Net Message Area" under the system record when listed.
Net file system toggle:
As of this time Colossus doesn't support files transfers in the
Net System. The file transfer "Telelink" is in current
development by the Forbin Project, and once finished will allow
automatic files transfers between Colossus Nodes. If will also
allow automatic Uploads and Downloads (*.*) between Colossus and
Qmodem.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
uit to SYSOP MENU:
Return to the Sysop Menu.
ave system file:
Very important. If you change a system record you MUST save your
changes before you change system records or return to the sysop
menu.
pload Path:
Any legal DOS Path you would like your uploads directed too.
COLOSSUS BULLETIN BOARD SOFTWARE NOVEMBER 15th, 1985
15.0 COLOSSUS TECHNICAL REFERENCE INFORMATION
We do not plan on releasing the source code for Colossus, however
we do feel some information maybe of use to our sysops to help
them understand how Colossus works, and handles a few routines.
If there is something you would like to know, which is not listed
here, please drop us a message via Net-Mail to Junior Country
200/3 and we'll consider adding it to this section.
15.1 RECORD STRUCTURE FOR "USERS.BBS"
User.BBS contains the following record structure:
Type
Users = Record
UserName : String[37]; { Users name }
CallingFrom : String[30]; { location }
Password : String[14]; { Password }
TimeDate : String[17]; { Last time called }
PhoneNumber : String[12]; { User phone number}
Credit, { Credit limit }
Pending, { Charges pending }
SecurityLevel, { Security level }
Uploads, { Number of ULoads }
Downloads, { Number of DLoads }
TotalUK, { Total K uploaded }
TotalDK, { Total K downlded }
TimesOn, { Number times on }
TimeLeft, { Time left today }
Last_Read, { Last message read}
Last_M_Area, { Last message area}
Last_F_Area: Integer; { Last file area }
Xpert, { Xpert toggle }
LockedOut, { allowed user? }
Deleted, { Mark for deletion}
Universal : Boolean; { Extra space }
End;
16.0 LATEST COLOSSUS UPDATES
Due to the fact Colossus is growing so fast, we have set up just
a few boards where you'll be able to get Revisions & Updates.
As the Colossus family grows, were sure this list will grow also!
New versions of Colossus are released on 15th of every month at
6pm (Pacific Standard Time). Send all net mail concerning bugs,
suggestions and comments to: Colossus Committee, Junior Country,
net 200, node 3.
16.1 COLOSSUS PROGRAM UPDATES
The latest Colossus Program & Overlays can be obtained from:
Board Name Sysop Number Location
---------- ----- ------ --------
Junior Country Jim Harrer 805/399-1329 Bakersfield, CA
The Forbin Project John Friel III 319/277-0041 Cedar Falls, IO
E N D O F F I L E