> Well, kids, I was sent some code that takes a stab at turning the
> X*Change datastream into netnews articles and stock quote files.
I must say, I was very happy to hear this, and to see the code.
It is a definate start on the right track. Slowly, we are
progressing with rejuvanating the archaic software XIS has
provided us, and we are turning this service into what it should
be.
> (1) It compiles.
Here we seem to have a problem. From everything I have heard so
far, the *NIX users have a useable piece of software. However,
myself and I'm sure the majority of others on this list are
concerned with an MS-DOS version, as well as Amiga. I am in the
unfortunate situation of having a UNIX system at work where I
can get this file to compile, but I have no X*Press capability
there. My feed is at home, where I have an IBM machine.
As some of you may recall, I started this list some time ago.
It was my hope that the subscribers would ban together (as they
have) and re-vamp the software (as they have). For this, I am
quite happy. The list has taken off, and we have made a 500%
improvement in the service by releasing this code.
It is my feeling that we can get the ball rolling even faster if
someone can develop this recent code into an executable that
will work on MS-DOS machines, as well as Amiga's (not the same
executable, obviously). Let's all remember that the Amiga
users have been abandoned by XIS, and their only hope to be able
to use the service is if we can come up with a better piece of
software.
My request is simple (on paper). I am asking someone with
MS-DOS programming experience to take this recently released
code, and compile it on a DOS machine. Develop an executable,
no matter how crude, and distribute it to the list. As well,
the same request goes out to a fluent Amiga programmer.
Let's all remember that XIS has the biggest backing by DOS users
(so says XIS), and if we can present the fact that we have such
a developing package, perhaps we will inspire others to join in.
And perhaps, just perhaps, XIS may see light of day and back us.
Whatya say? Is someone up for it? Let's hear what everyone
thinks about my idea. Is it possible?
Sean
--- Sean Petty undr!seanp@tredysvr.Tredydev.Unisys.COM ICBMnet: 39'58'12"N 75'84'26"W seanp@undr.org