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Epson PX-8 User Manual

Epson PX-8
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3.8 Using Utilities and Application Program with
CP
1M
Computers are normally used to run applications programs, for example to write
text using a word processor. These programs are loaded from the disk into the
memory
of
the computer when they are needed.
For
this reason they are often
called transient commands
to
contrast them with the built-in commands. Such
programs are given the file extension .COM meaning a command type
of
file.
They are executed by typing the name
of
the file without the extension as
if
they were a command. For example
to
use the file TERM. COM which
is
a pro-
gram
to
use the PX-8 as a terminal, you would simply type the word TERM
after the
CP
1M
prompt.
3.8.1 Utilities
The PX-8
is
provided with a ROM which contains a number
of
programs which
are used for common day
to
day management
of
the computer, for example
transfering
files
and changing parameters. They perform the following functions:
PIP
is
a program for copying files.
STAT
is
a program to determine the status
of
the disks and perform general
housekeeping functions.
SUBMIT
is
used
to
process a sequence
of
commands.
XSUB
is
used
to
allow input from the keyboard with SUBMIT.
CONFIG
is
used to change system parameters which are not changed often.
TERM
is
a program
to
allow the use
of
the PX-8 as a terminal.
FlUNK
is
used
to
transfer files between the PX-8 and other computers.
These programs are discussed in detail in the following pages.
Other programs are often provided with
CP
1M. These are discussed in section
3.10. Please consult your dealer for further information.
3-32
3.8.2 Application programs
You
will
also use programs such as Portable WordStar™ and Portable Calc™.
They will have instruction manuals which will give you details
of
how
to
use
them. Whatever media they are provided on, ROM, Microcassette tape or floppy
disk, they will have a file in the directory which
is
a .COM file
to
run them.
They are executed in the same manner as the utility programs. They are tran-
sient commands
of
a different kind.
3-33

Table of Contents

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Epson PX-8 Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandEpson
ModelPX-8
CategoryLaptop
LanguageEnglish

Summary

Chapter 1 Overview

1.2 Hardware Configuration

Describes the PX-S hardware components, including CPU, memory, keyboard, display, and interfaces.

1.3 Software Configuration

Chapter 2 Starting Up and Operating the PX-8

2.1 Starting Up

Provides precautions for computer and AC adapter usage, and procedures before switching on the PX-8.

2.2 Operating The Computer

Details operating the computer, including keyboard functions, special keys, and screen modes.

2.2.2 Switching the PX-8 on and off

2.2.4 Alternative reset sequences

Chapter 3 Operating the Computer Under CP/M

3.1 What Is CP/M?

Introduces CP/M as a popular operating system for microcomputers and its advantages.

3.2 Files And File Names

Explains file storage, naming conventions, primary names, extensions, and wildcards.

3.3 Starting To Use CP/M

Details using CP/M, including disk drive names, changing disks, and warm starts.

3.4 Using The Keyboard Under CP/M

Describes keyboard functions under CP/M, including programmable function keys and character deletion.

3.6 The Concept of Logical And Physical Devices

3.7 The CP/M Built-In Commands

Lists and explains essential CP/M built-in commands like DIR, ERA, REN, SAVE, TYPE, and USER.

3.8 Using Utilities and Application Program with CP/M

Covers CP/M utilities (PIP, STAT, SUBMIT, XSUB, CONFIG, TERM) and application programs.

3.8.6 CONFIG

Chapter 4 Input and Output Devices and Optional Additions to the PX-8

4.1 Storage of Files and Data

Discusses file storage options including Microcassette drive and optional floppy disk drives.

4.1.1 Microcassette Drive

4.2 RS-232C Interface

Explains the RS-232C interface, its operation modes, protocols, and examples of use.

4.3 Serial Interface

4.4 Using Printers with the PX-8

Chapter 5 The System Interface

5.1 The CP/M Configuration

5.2 The IOBYTE

5.3 The File Control Block (FCB)

5.4 BDOS Function Calls

5.6 The BIOS Interface

5.7 The Entry Address of the BIOS Subroutines

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