

    Information about the forthcoming release of Synchronet BBS Version 2.0
    =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=

    				Digital Dynamics
				February, 9 1994




Scheduled release date : April 1, 1994
Software upgrade price : $50 + s/h
                         (FREE for initial purchases after 08/27/93)
New sysop manual       : $10 + s/h



What's New in Version 2:
=======================

Programmable Command Shells:
---------------------------
Allows the customization of the BBS menu structures and commands. High-level
'BASIC-Like' command language allows simple programming without external
programs/add-ons. Multiple command shells available for your users to choose
from, including emulations of competing BBS packages. Multi-language support.
You can customize the default command shells to your liking or create
additional/replacement command shells for your specific BBS needs. The command
shell compiler is included FREE!


Message Base Format:
-------------------
Level II implementation of SMB message base format for high-speed, high-volume,
multi-network message storage and retrieval with significantly lower storage
space requirements. Extendable format for future needs, including multimedia!


File Base Format:
----------------
New storage format for file transfer database to lower storage space
requirements for file descriptions, eliminate the need for separated extended
descriptions, increase maximum number of files per directory, and more.


Binary Configuration Files:
--------------------------
Configuration files are now stored in binary format to reduce storage space
requirements and speed up the initialization process. Many configuration files
have been combined to reduce the total number of configuration files.


Swapping for All Executables:
----------------------------
Swapping to EMS, XMS, Extended Memory, or Disk for external programs from
ANYWHERE (no more shrinking for doors or the use of SHROOM). Swapping to
memory is EXTREMELY fast! As little as 288 bytes left resident!


External Program Sections:
-------------------------
Group your 'doors' into topical sections or leave them all in one section.
Same principle as Message Groups and File Libraries.


Generic int 14h Driver Support:
------------------------------
Non-UART serial devices are now supported provided an INT 14h DOS driver is
available for that device. Intelligent multi-port boards, network redirectors,
PADs, and other non-UART serial devices usually have INT 14h drivers for
applications (like BBS software) to access the device. Check with the
manufacturer of the device you wish to use for device driver availability.


Increased Third Party Support:
-----------------------------
Due to the public specification of the SMB message base format, many message
related program developers have begun development or expressed development
plans for supporting Synchronet Version 2. At the top of this list is Merlin
Systems of Ontario Canada (613-236-1138), developing an Internet gateway for
Synchronet Version 2. Interested developers should download SMB_100.ZIP for 
the complete technical specification and C libraries for the SMB format.


New Node Pricing (as of April 1, 1994):
--------------------------------------
  2 Node	$  99
  4 Node	$ 199  (currently $149)
  8 Node	$ 299  (NEW)
 16 Node	$ 399  (currently $199)
250 Node	$ 499  (currently $399)

If you currently own Synchronet and plan on upgrading your node license
in the near future, you'll save money if you upgrade before April 1. Node
upgrades are available for the price difference, plus 10% of the difference.


32-bit OS/2 Version:
-------------------
Initial release will be of the DOS version only. A native 32-bit OS/2 version
will be available 30 to 60 days following the release of 2.0. The price
structure for the OS/2 version will be somewhat higher (not yet determined) 
due to the increased complexity of the product, but upgrades from the DOS 
version will be available without loss of investment.

... And much more ...


Contacting Digital Dynamics:
---------------------------
Address: PO Box 501, Yorba Linda, CA 92686
  Voice: 714-529-6328
    FAX: 714-529-9721
    BBS: 714-529-5313
   Fido: 1:103/705
   RIME: 5115


