Pen-Based Computing Soon Available Online

Pen-Based Computing will soon be available online. Already published monthly on both paper and as an electronic document for Newton PDAs, PBC will also be available as a fully viewable and printable electronic document on Macintosh and PC-compatible personal computers.

Starting next month, select subscribers will be able to read a fully formatted issue on a personal computer just as they can today on paper. In addition, readers will have the option of printing a single paper copy for times when they need to get away from the screen.

This electronic version, called Pen-Based Computing/Online, contains precisely the same material as the paper and Newton versions. However, by distributing the issue electronically, we are hoping to provide a faster, and more ecologically-sound method for getting breaking information into your hands.

We are exploring several methods of distribution including Internet ftp, along with sending a compressed and uuencoded message using Internet electronic mail. By distributing the issue as it is completed—and before it goes to the printer—readers will receive the issue at least one week in advance. From this first version, readers will require an Internet email account, along with access to the compress and uudecode programs. Freeware versions of both programs are easy to find for both the Mac and PC, and are standard on UNIX environments.

In the future, we will continue to expand the number of electronic mail systems supported. Also, you can expect the subscription rate for Pen-Based Computing/Online to be lower than the current paper rate, however the final pricing and terms have not been finalized.

If you have an email account on the Internet and are interested in receiving a sample issue and participating in the beta program for PBC/Online, send a message to [email protected]. Please fill out an electronic version of the regular subscription form on the back of each issue and include “Free Sample Issue of PBC/Online” as the subject of the message.

If you are a current subscriber, simply include your name, company name, and email address. Thanks for your interest and see you online.