+=================================  NMP  ====================================

==================  Network Modem Program, Second Generation  ================

=====================  by Network Products Corporation  ======================


=================
Table Of Contents
=================

1.   NMP Introduction and Overview
	 A.  NMP
	 B.  NCSI
	 C.  Network Products Corporation
2.   Shareware NMP
3.   Registering
4.   Technical Support
5.   Network Products Family of Gateways
6.   Contacting NPC
7.   Documentation Notes
8.   NMP Installation
	 A.  Installing from Network or Harddrive
	 B.  Installing from Floppy
	 C.  Installation Notes
9.   Using the NMP
	 A.  Loading the NMP
	 B.  Loading NCSI
10.  Testing the Communication Server
11.  NMP Named Ports
12.  NCSI Utilities
13.  Third-Party Communication Applications
14.  NCSI and Windows
15.  Further Information and Assistance
16.  Developing for NCSI
17.  License and Trademark Information
18.  Registration Form


==================================
1.  NMP Introduction and Overview
==================================

NMP Shareware v2.12.73

	The NMP is a high-performance software communication server.  The NMP
controls the COM port on a PC, allowing it's use from a different PC across
the network.  The NMP allows the sharing and pooling of Modems, serial
connections to host computers, or other asynchronous communication devices on
a network.

	Virtually any asynchronous serial device attached to the COM port can be
shared, thus saving the cost and difficulty of connecting a modem and
telephone-line or host connection to every network workstation.  When multiple
NMPs are used, or when a multiport communication server is used (like NPC's
ACS), groups of asynchronous devices can be pooled permitting a user to
choose from a group of devices without the necessity of specifying a
particular device.

	A common use of the NMP is to share a single modem among many users.
This modem may be used to access Electronic Bulletin Board Systems (EBBS),
the Internet,  or information services, like CompuServe or Lexis.

	The NMP is easy to use.  Simply run the NMP executable on a network
workstation that has a modem and that workstation is now a network modem
server.  Run the NCSI client program and a NCSI-compatible application on a
workstation that wants to use the modem on the modem server, and that
workstation running NCSI can now communicate with that modem across the LAN.

	A single NMP allows users to share a single COM port on a single PC
among multiple client workstations.  Multiple NMPs can be utilized on a
network, each running on it's own PC.  There is virtually no limit to the
number of NMPs on a LAN, however each copy can control only a single COM port
on the PC it is run on.  The single COM port controlled by the NMP can not be
used by multiple client workstations simultaneously.  When a single client is
actively using the port, it is unavailable for use by other clients.  After a
client workstation is done using the port, it can be used by others.
Connections can be established or released by the client application at any
time.  Multiple ports on a single PC can be shared using Network Product's
ACS.

	For speed, performance, features, and stability the NMP has no peer.  The
current product is the result of over 10 years of product evolution.


NCSI, an Industry Standard

	NCSI (Network Communication Services Interface), pronounced "NEX-see",
is an Application Programming Interface (API) developed by Network Products
Corporation.  The NCSI TSR provides the client workstation with an interface
to the NMP network communication server.

	NCSI is an amazingly versatile program.  Among other things, NCSI provides
network users with naming services that allow the pooling of asynchronous
communication resources.  By using NCSI's naming service, a descriptive name
can be assigned to a single port or group of ports, thus greatly reducing
confusion over a port's function.  Additionally a NCSI user can either choose
from a virtual pool of asynchronous devices, or choose a specific device.
Similar devices can be pooled together, letting a user choose a resource by
the type.  NCSI can support up to 9 simultaneous connections on the client
workstation allowing the user to run multiple communication sessions
concurrently. NCSI also provides higher data transfer rates than any other
network asynchronous communication server interface.  NCSI supports Novell's
NetWare, Banyan Vines, and 100% compatible NetBIOS networks including
Microsoft's LAN Manager, Windows-for-Workgroups, and IBM's PC LAN.

	NCSI is supported by a wide variety of communication applications, and
does not rely on a proprietary Network Products application for use.  Most
commercial communication applications support NCSI.  A list of supported
applications is included in this archive.  If you don't see your favorite
application on this list, contact the manufacturer of your application; they
may have a NCSI-compatible version.  For an updated list, contact the NPC BBS
at the number given below.

	NCSI provides the application designer with a standard interface for
network asynchronous communication services.  NCSI also supplies the
application designer with primitives that allow server port parameters to be
changed from within the application.

	NCSI has been licensed to some companies under it's own name, and also
under other names.  Some companies have attempted to make drivers that
emulate NCSI's functionality, with limited success.  NCSI is a very complex
product, and is the premier client interface for sharing asynchronous and X.25
ports on a network.  NCSI is the fastest, and most robust communication server
interface available.


Network Products Corporation

	Network Products Corporation (NPC) pioneered the field of asynchronous
network communication servers.  Formed in 1985, NPC is dedicated to developing
products that provide essential connection capabilities between LANs and other
devices.

	Network Products Corporation was the original OEM manufacturer and
supplier of Novell's NACS/NASI communication server, Gateway Communication's
G-Asynch communication server, and Evergreen's Flexcom server.  NPC has
provided communication server and other LAN technology to many other
companies, both in the past and presently.


==================
2.  Shareware NMP
==================

	The NMP is shareware.  If you use it regularly you should register
it.  NPC and it's re-sellers have marketed the NMP quite successfully for
five years at $195!  Shareware enables us to cut our marketing costs and
increase our production, allowing us to offer the NMP for only $49!
Registered users get a professionally printed manual, the latest production
software including software to run the NMP as a dedicated or a non-dedicated
server, Windows drivers with no nag window, and telephone technical support.

	The most current copy of the shareware version of the NMP may be
downloaded from NPC's BBS at (818) 441-6933.  The EBBS supports v.32bis.
Set your communication software for 8 data bits, 1 stop bit and no parity.

	This shareware copy of the NMP is fully functional.  It contains
everything necessary to establish a modem pool.


===============
3.  Registering
===============

	To purchase a copy of the NMP send a copy of the registration form
along with payment to Network Products Corporation at the address supplied.
A registration form is at the end of this document and also separately under
the file name REGISTER.FRM.  Users outside the continental United States
should contact our sales department at 818-441-6504 for purchase and shipping
information.


=====================
4.  Technical Support
=====================

	Technical support for our shareware is ONLY supplied via our EBBS at
818-441-6933, by fax at 818-441-6894, or by CompuServe mail via ID
75300,1105. Internet email support is available at
techsupport@networkproducts.com. Address questions on the EBBS to the
SYSOP and you should receive a reply soon after posting your question or
problem.

	Registered users receive free telephone technical support in
addition to the electronic technical support.


===========================================
5.  The Network Products Family of Gateways
===========================================

	Network Products makes servers for Advanced NetWare, NetBIOS, and
Vines network operating systems.  The NMP is one of a family of modem sharing
and network communications products available from NPC.  Other products
include the ACS, a dedicated or non-dedicated communication server offering
exceptional performance available from 4 to 32 port versions; the ACS/SA, a
self contained, 2 port, communication server that requires only a network
connection site and AC power for operation, available for ethernet for NetWare
IPX, Microsoft's LAN Manager, and Windows-for-Workgroups networks; and the
XCS, an X.25 gateway that provides network  workstations access to an X.25
packet-switched network.  For more information about NPC products, see the
section on Contacting NPC.


==================
6.  Contacting NPC
==================

	To contact NPC write or phone:

	Network Products Corporation
	1440 West Colorado Boulevard
	Pasadena, California  91105

	(voice) 818-441-6504
	(fax) 818-441-6894
	(EBBS) 818-441-6933 (8,N,1,V.32bis)

	CompuServe 75300,1105
	Internet 	mail	techsupport@networkproducts.com
						sales@networkproducts.com
				web		http://www.networkproducts.com

==============================
7.  A Note About This Document
==============================

	Some text editors do not display the "second generation" designation
after NMP correctly.  The  character is simply a super-scripted numeral 2
as in "squared" or "to the second power."

	The DOS program EDIT should have no trouble displaying or printing this
document.

	You can print this document on many printers by copying the file to the
printer port.  The DOS command to do this would simply be:

	COPY README.TXT LPT1:


=====================
8.  NMP Installation
=====================

	The NMP software can either be installed from a local hard drive, a
network drive, or a floppy.  Please read through this guide before installing
the NMP.


Installing From a Hard Drive or a Network Drive

1.  Be sure there is at least 2 megabytes of free space.

2.  Create a temporary directory from which to work.

3.  Place the NMP2.EXE file in this directory.

4.  Execute the NMP2.EXE file from within this directory.  This will create
	several sub-directories and files within the temporary working directory.

5.  After un-archiving the NMP2.EXE file, run the INSTALL.EXE file.  The
	installation program will guide you through the installation.  


Installing From a Diskette

1.  If installing from a diskette, use a newly formatted high-density floppy. 

2.  Execute NMP2.EXE and specify the destination drive.  Use the syntax
	"NMP2 A:" if the A: drive is desired destination drive.  The files 
	will un-archive to the diskette.  

3.  Change to the drive containing the newly created installation files and
	type "INSTALL" to start the installation.  The installation program 
	guides you through the installation.


Installation Notes

	The installation program requires approximately 560K of free memory to
execute.  If this is not available, the configuration may not be complete
and it may be necessary to run CCONFIG.EXE after the NMP installation to
configure the communication server properly.

	The installation program asks for three file location designations.  The
first is for the server itself, the second is for the client programs &
utilities, the third is for the server configuration utility.  For simplicity
you can specify the same location for all files.  If the same location is
specified for all files, the NCSI client interface should be copied to a
location available to all client workstations.

	During installation you have the option of testing the server.  If you
do, the program will start the server, start NCSI, and start BTTY.  Once in
BTTY type CONNECT PORT to connect to the port and then type some characters to
see if they loop back.  If characters appear, all should be well.  To exit
BTTY hit the f10 key.

	During installation you will be asked to specify your network operating
system.  While most installations are pretty clear, some people get confused
about NetBIOS network operating systems.  In general, the following network
operating systems should be installed using the following LAN types:

Lantastic                 NETBIOS Compatible Network (Datagram Services)
Windows for Workgroups    NETBIOS Compatible Network (Datagram Services)
LAN Manager               NETBIOS Compatible Network (Datagram Services)
PC LAN                    NETBIOS Compatible Network (Datagram Services)
LAN Server                NETBIOS Compatible Network (Datagram Services)
NT Server w/WFW Client    NETBIOS Compatible Network (Datagram Services)

DEC LAT                   NETBIOS Compatible Network (Session Services)
DECNet                    NETBIOS Compatible Network (Session Services)

Windows for Workgroups running on another network operating system should be
installed for the type of network operating system it is running on top of.

	For additional information on installing the NMP on specific networks,
look in this archive for network-specific text files and check the Network
Products EBBS Text File section.


==================
9.  Using The NMP
==================

	The NMP communication server consists of two parts: the NMP server
itself (NMP.EXE) and the client interface TSR (NCSI.EXE).  The NMP should be
loaded only on the machine with the modem.  NCSI should be loaded on EACH
machine that needs access to the NMP communication server.  Only one instance
of the shareware NMP can be started at a time on a single LAN.  Multiple
instances of the NMP can run on the LAN only if: each one runs on it's own
PC, and each one is a separate registered copy.

Loading NMP

	Load the workstation interface drivers normally used to access the network
on the machine that will serve as the NMP communication server.  Make sure
there is a modem attached and that it is turned on.  Load the NMP server by
switching to the directory containing the NMP server software and type:

	  NMP

The server will load in memory and stay resident.  Be sure that the user
running the machine hosting the NMP does not run software that uses the
same COM port that the NMP is using.  Do not load the shareware NMP server
software on more than one machine on a network.

	The NMP may be removed from memory if it was the last TSR program
loaded.  Type the command SERV-REL.  This will down the NMP and remove it
from memory if possible.


Loading NMP2 under Windows

	Users who are not running real-mode network drivers and those desiring
to conserve DOS session memory while running Windows on the NMP host machine
can load the NMP from WINSTART.BAT.  When loaded from WINSTART.BAT the NMP
will be terminated if the host machine exits Windows.


Loading NCSI

	NCSI should be loaded on every client workstation that requires access
to the NMP.  NCSI should be loaded after loading the workstation interface
drivers normally used to access the network.  NCSI is the client workstation
interface component that allows NCSI-compatible applications to use the NMP
server. NCSI does not need to be loaded on the NMP server workstation unless
that workstation also requires access to the shared modem.  To load NCSI
simply type:

	NCSI

while in the sub-directory containing the NCSI executables.

	NCSI is a TSR interface and can be removed from memory by running the
program NCSI-REL.  NCSI can be loaded high, but it is best to avoid memory-
optimization programs, as many misinterpret NCSI's memory needs.

	NCSI supports several command line switches that enhance and modify
NCSI's operation:  Type "NCSI -?" without the quotes to display a list of
available switches.  The syntax is simply NCSI, hyphen, and the command-
line switch desired, as in the above example to display available switches.

	Some common switches are:

c    disables the NCSI command interpreter; most applications do not use
	the NCSI command interpreter, but some like BTTY do; check with
	the communication application manufacturer to see if this option
	can be used.  Disabling the NCSI command interpreter lowers NCSI's
	memory requirements.

n    Sets NCSI users name.  The user name will appear in CCONSOLE when
	a client connects to the port.

v#   Sets number of virtual circuits.  By default NCSI supports up to
	nine virtual circuits on one client workstation.  With nine virtual
	circuits a single user could connect to up to nine communication
	ports simultaneously on one client workstation.  When using a
	single NMP only one port is available, so this feature cannot be
	used.  When multiple NMPs or multiport servers are employed,
	certain DOS applications and applications in multi-tasking
	environments like Windows or Desqview can access multiple ports
	simultaneously.  Reducing the number of virtual circuits allowed
	when multiple simultaneous connections are not a requirement
	lowers NCSI memory requirement.

w   Allows loading NCSI in a DOS "box" or "window" when using Microsoft
    Windows in 386-Enhanced mode. This is not required when loading NCSI
    prior to loading Windows. When loaded in this fashion, NCSI services
    will not be available to applications in DOS sessions.  See the text
    file for additional information on running with Windows.

	After loading NCSI, load and run your NCSI-compatible application.
The NMP shareware includes a minimal communications utility named NTERM that
is NCSI compatible.

	The network versions of most major communications applications also
offer support for the NCSI interface.  There is also a variety of remote-
control and special-purpose applications that also use the NCSI interface.
If your favorite application is not on the list, contact your software
manufacturer to check availability of a NCSI compatible version.  A list of
NCSI compatible applications is included in this package.  A copy of the
current list is also available for download from the NPC BBS.  Follow the
instructions given above to access the NPC BBS.


=====================
10.  Testing The NMP
=====================

1.    Load the NMP on the workstation with the modem that will serve as the
communication server.

2.    Load NCSI on the client workstation that will access the communication
server.

3.    Load BTTY and at the NCSI 1:1> prompt type CONNECT [PORT_NAME] where
[PORT_NAME] is the general or specific name on the NMP server.  If the name
was not changed during installation the command would simply be CONNECT PORT.

4.    If the connection to the port is successful, BTTY will report it is
connecting to the port and leaving the command interpreter.

5.    If a modem is connected to the port type AT and press enter to see if
the modem responds "OK" or "0".  If not, try typing ATZ or AT&F.  If these
do not work, check that the modem is on, that cabling is good, and that the
NMP is configured to access the correct COM port.  If a device other than
a modem is connected to the serial port, check for a login or other prompt
from the host.


=====================
11.  NMP Named Ports
=====================

	NCSI searches for available ports by name.  Each port on each
communication server has a general name and a specific name.  Any specific
port can be used by specifying the specific name in the communication
application accessing the server.  When multiple servers or servers with
multiple ports reside on the network, it is possible to simply use a port
that is not in use, without knowing which are available.  When multiple ports
share the same general name, and the general name is specified in the
communication application for use, NCSI will search for an available port
and attach to it.  It is possible to establish useful naming conventions such
as "MODEM" and "MINI" to allow users to connect to a generic type of
asynchronous service.  Users don't need to know if a certain port is
available, just that they want to use a "MODEM" or access the "MINI."

	When configuring the NMP communication server, either upon
installation or when using CCONFIG, the port names will show in the Asynch
Port Configuration window with the convention GENERAL_NAME:SPECIFIC_NAME.


==============
12.  Utilities
==============

	The NMP comes with a set of utilities which provide great flexibility 
in the use of the NMP.  Major utilities provided include extensive on-line 
help that should assist with the use of the utility.  The primary utilities 
are:

CCONFIG, which configures the NMP.  Run CCONFIG.EXE in the same directory
containing the NMP executables and configuration file.

CCONSOLE, which allows the remote management and configuration of the NMP
server.  The default supervisor password is the word "SUPERVISOR".  CCONSOLE
provides great flexibility and control of the NMP operation.  CCONSOLE can
be used from any workstation on the network.

NTERM, a limited NCSI-compatible terminal-emulation communication application. 
NTERM support VT-100 ANSI terminal emulation and XMODEM transfer protocols.
NMP/NCSI ports are chosen in NTERM's configuration menu.

CLIST, lists NPC communication servers on the network.  CLIST /A will show
server ports on the network, their general and specific names and the status
of the port.

BTTY, a NCSI-compatible teletype emulator.  Useful for testing the NMP server
because of its simplicity.  Type HELP at the "NCSI 1:1>" prompt for help.  
Hitting the f10 key exits the program.

NCSIport redirects Windows comm calls, allowing non-NCSI aware Windows comm
applications, like TERMINAL, to work with NCSI.  See the text file for
instructions on its installation and use.


=================================================
13.  Using Third-Party Communication Applications
=================================================

	Most commercial applications support NCSI.  Even though NPC has worked
closely with applications designers over the years, programmers are free to
implement NCSI support in a variety of ways.

	Third-party applications that are NCSI-aware require setup to use the
NMP.  Some applications support NCSI in slightly different ways.  In general,
choose a NCSI or NASI (Novell's name for NCSI) service instead of a COM port
and specify a service by it's name.  For information on using specific
applications, refer to your application documentation or contact the
manufacturer.

	Most applications that support NCSI put the NCSI-connection selector in
the same spot as the COMn port selectors.  For example, if a list is presented
of available connection devices, it might look like this:

	COM1
	COM2
	COM3
	COM4
	NCSI/NASI
	INT14

	The NCSI/NASI selection is the correct choice.

	Generally after choosing NCSI or NCSI/NASI, a dialog box will appear
asking you to configure the ports or services you want to connect to.  The
"ports" or "services" are the names given the NMP server ports.  If it has
not been changed, the NMP port is called PORT (strangely enough).  You can
check your port names by using the utility CLIST and typing CLIST /A in DOS
while the server is running.

	Some applications, like BTTY, make you type commands to connect to ports.  
In BTTY the command to connect to a port called PORT would simply be:

CONNECT PORT


=====================
14.  NCSI and Windows
=====================

	To use NCSI with a compatible Windows application, load NCSI prior to
loading Windows or in WINSTART.BAT.  See the text file on Windows and NCSI for
more information on the options available.  NCSI can be loaded in a DOS
session in enhanced-mode Windows by supplying NCSI with the "-w"
command-line switch.  If using NCSI-compatible DOS applications while in
Windows, place the VNCSI.386 file located on the NCSI Program Utilities
diskette in the \WINDOWS\SYSTEM directory and modify the SYSTEM.INI file
so that the "network=" setting under "[386Enh]" section contains a comma
after the last entry and then VNCSI.386.


Windows COMM.DRV Redirection

	Many Windows applications that have not specifically been designed to
operate with NCSI can also use the NMP server. A Windows comm port
redirector, NCSIport, is contained in the same sub-directory that
contains the NCSI utilities BTTY, CLIST, etc.

See NCSIport.TXT for more information.


=======================================
15.  Further Information and Assistance
=======================================

	For additional information on using the NMP, you may wish to consider
registering your NMP.  Registered users receive unlimited technical support,
a professionally printed manual, and the latest production software.  For
information on registering, please contact Network Products.  Limited
technical support for non-registered users is supplied through our EBBS.  Send
questions or messages to the EBBS Sysop.

Notes on specific issues, like installing for Windows for Workgroups, are
included in separate documents supplied in this archive.


========================
16.  Developing for NCSI
========================

	NPC supplies developer's with a developer's kit that includes sample
source-code in C, Basic, & Assembly which can be cut and pasted into the
developer's own application.  Technical assistance, co-marketing arrangements,
and other services are also supplied by NPC.  Please contact NPC for more
information.


======================================
17.  License and Trademark Information
======================================

	The NMP name, software, and it's associated files are protected by
the copyright laws of the United States and international copyright treaties.

This software is a shareware version of commercial software available from
Network Products Corporation and it's resellers and may be used only to
determine suitability of the commercial software.  You may reproduce and
distribute copies of these files so long as all files including this README
file are distributed together.  No fee shall be charged for the copying or
distribution of these files without written consent from Network Products.

You may not receive any payment, commercial benefit, or any consideration for
the reproduction, distribution, or use, either alone or in combination with
any other software or hardware, of this software without written consent from
Network Products Corporation.

NMP, ACS, ACS/SA, Asynchronous Communications Server, Second Generation,
and Asynchronous Communications Server Second Generation/Stand Alone are
trademarks of Network Products Corporation.

NCSI, Network Modem Program, Second Generation, and XCS are registered
trademarks of Network Products Corporation.

IBM is a trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.

NetWare and Novell are registered trademarks of Novell, Inc.

Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.  Microsoft is a registered
trademark of Microsoft Corporation.

Lexis/Nexis is a trademark of Lexis/Nexis and Mead Data Central, Inc.

CompuServe is a registered trademark CompuServe, Inc., an H&R Block company.

All other names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
owners.


THE FILE OR THE FILES CONTAINED THEREIN MAY NOT BE DISASSEMBLED, REVERSE-
ENGINEERED, NOR ALTERED IN ANY WAY.  EXCEPT AS RESTRICTED BY LAW, THE SOFTWARE
PROGRAMS CONTAINED IN THE FILE AND ALL ASSOCIATED FILES ARE PROVIDED "AS IS"
WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND.




------------------------------------------------------------------------------



18.  =======================  NMP Registration Form  =======================






Name _________________________________________________


Address ______________________________________________


City _______________________________  State __________


Zip _____________________  Country ___________________




----------------------------------------------   Qty.     Price     Total


NMP                                             _____   @  $49      _____       

Includes current production software,            
manual and unlimited technical support.

Shipping and Handling for orders within                       
the Continental U.S.                             _____   @  $7.25    _____

California residents add 8.25% sales tax         _____   @  $4.04    _____

Other                                                                _____


Total Enclosed                                                    $ _______



International orders should contact Network Products for shipping and 
handling rates.

Send a copy of this order form along with appropriate payment to:

Network Products Corporation
1440 West Colorado Boulevard
Pasadena, California  91105
U.S.A.
