     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                             Page 1 Of 10
     ======================================================================
                                                                   11/09/97
     Hi!

          Do you want to learn how to write computer programs?  And know
     little or nothing about it?  Or about computers?  Then Really Basic
     BASIC is just what you need!  Whether you are only curious, looking
     for a hobby, or taking the first step toward becoming a professional,
     RBB is the place to start.

          Regardless of background, ability, or skills, you will succeed. 
     Some will progress quickly, others more slowly.  But this is not
     important, for it's not a race.  You will progress.  And continue to
     do so.  You will achieve the level of expertise you seek.  You're
     going to love it!

          Getting started is the hard part.  If you haven't installed RBB,
     you need to do so.  Please see Installing RBB below.

          Next you need to decide which of the two versions to run.  RBBWIN
     runs only in Windows.  RBBDOS will run in either MS-DOS or Windows,
     but runs best without Windows.  Except for slight differences, the
     versions are identical.  

          Whatever your choice, you can switch to the other whenever you
     wish.  All records and files are available to either version.  A
     Windows user may choose RBBWIN, then later find it more convenient to
     use RBBDOS.  Or they may find it runs more efficiently.  So choose to
     suit; you can always switch.

          Once RBB is running, the rest is a snap!  Just follow the
     directions.  Nothing can go wrong you can't fix.  So go for it!   
     If you get stuck, give us a call.  The number is 209-742-6783.  
     On the Web we're bob@tiptopsoft.com.  On CompuServe, use 75041,2006  

          If you are a parent or teacher guiding the work of others, be
     sure to see PTGUIDE.TXT on the disk.  

          Enjoy!

                                      Tip Top Software

     ====================================================================
     Contents: Here's what you will find in this file.

          Installing RBB: Using INSTALL  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  2
          Uninstall: Removing RBB from your system   . . . . . . .  2
          How To Get The Current Version: Visit our Web site . . .  2
          Getting Started: It's easy!  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  3
          About The Boss: Forget it if you are the only user . . .  4
          System Requirements: The minimum system  . . . . . . . .  4
          Older Systems: RBB is available for a 286  . . . . . . .  4
          Troubleshooting: When to give up and call for help . . .  5
          RBBBOSS: A tool for schools  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  7
          A Note To Teachers: We have a deal for you . . . . . . .  7
          Site Licenses: For schools only  . . . . . . . . . . . .  7
          Limited Warranty And License Agreement: The contract . .  8
          Support Policy: We are available . . . . . . . . . . . .  8
          ASP Policy Statement: And other notes  . . . . . . . . .  8
          Packing List: Descriptions of files  . . . . . . . . . .  9
          Help With Your Programs: We may be able to assist! . . . 10
          Contact Information: How to get hold of us . . . . . . . 10     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                            Page 2 Of 10
     =====================================================================
     INSTALLING RBB: Using INSTALL
          If you are running in Windows, you have already run INSTALL, so
     will find nothing you need in this section.  However, if you had or 
     are having a problem installing, please give us a call.  We will have
     you up and running right quick.

          If you have the MS-DOS version, you have already unzipped the
     file you downloaded or received on disk into a directory.  All that
     remains to be done is to run INSTALL in this directory.  As files are
     moved to the directory you select, they are deleted in this one.  
     Only the zip file will remain when the installation completed.  Again,
     If you have any problems, please give us call.  We will be glad to
     help.

          In case you have the Windows version but don't have Windows, 
     the install program won't go because it is a Windows' program.  While
     it includes RBBDOS, the MS-DOS version of RBB, you won't be able to
     get to it unless you have access to a system running Windows.  In any
     case, you will find it more convenient to obtain a copy of RBBDOS.ZIP. 
     It can usually be found in the same place you got what you have.  Look
     for RBBDOS.ZIP or RBBDOSnn.ZIP where nn is the version number.  If you
     can't find it, you can download it on the web from tiptopsoft.com, or
     give us call and we will get a copy out right away. 



     ======================================================================
     UNINSTALL: Removing RBB from your system

          To delete RBB, run UNINSTALL.  It will delete anything installed
     you have not moved, with two exceptions: DVDLL.DLL and VDV.386.  These
     files are installed in your Windows directory when RBB is first run in
     Windows.  The uninstall program does not delete them, because they may
     be required by other applications you are using.  

          Further, UNINSTALL does not delete files created for you by RBB.
     For example, if you ran through the order procedure, you will find
     ORDERED.TXT remains.  And in the Work directory, your program files
     will remain.  You need to delete these files, then the work directory.
     Also delete whatever remains in the main directory, and delete it as
     well.  For a brief description of files, see the Packing List below.



     ======================================================================
     HOW TO GET THE CURRENT VERSION: Visit our Web site 

          RBB undergoes constant change.  The latest version, including all
     fixes and enhancements, can be downloaded from our web site at 
     tiptopsoft.com 
          You can check the date of the release of the version you have by
     selecting "Your Version" under "About RBB" in the main menu.  We
     anticipate release of a new version every three months or so.  Note    
     that upon purchase of a license, we ship the latest version.     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                            Page 3 Of 10
     =====================================================================
     GETTING STARTED: It's easy!

          * When RBB is run the first time, you will be asked to accept the
     terms of the Limited Warranty and License Agreement.  Just press Enter
     or click with the mouse to do so.  (For your reference, a copy of this
     agreement is provided below.)

          * Next you will be asked to enter a user ID.  The first four
     letters of your name work well.  You need one, even if you will be the
     only user.  RBB uses your ID to keep track of where you are and what
     needs doing next.  Hundreds of people may be using RBB at the same
     time.  RBB keeps everything straight by referring to user IDs.

          * For each new user, RBB opens with a brief Guided Tour that
     introduces the fundamentals needed.  It explains a lot about RBB and
     makes getting started easier.

          * After the tour, you will get a welcome message, a new file will
     be created for your use, and you will be off and running.  RBB will
     guide your every step!

          * Feel free to explore options available, but it's best to simply
     follow suggestions and directions.  The idea is to keep things as
     simple as possible while getting started to avoid confusion.

          * The Lessons: In each, you are led step-by-step in the creation
     of a program.  You will then want to check out the Sample and Tasks
     as described below.  When you feel you understand what has been
     presented, go on to the next one.  Sometimes it's a good idea to go
     on, even if you are still a bit confused.  Things tend to clear up 
     over time.  You can always go back to a previous lesson.

          * The Samples: When you are satisfied with your program, be sure
     to load the corresponding Sample to compare your work to ours.  But
     remember there is no such thing as right or wrong here.  If your
     program runs and you are content, it's good.  Period.  Still, you may
     get an idea or two you would like to try, or maybe use later.

          * The Tasks: With each lesson, there are four problems to be
     solved by writing a new program.  The best approach is to read through
     all four, pick the two that seem most interesting, then write a
     program for each of them.  Even if none of them interest you, be sure
     to do at least one.  This is essential to your success.

          *A Recommendation: Be patient with yourself.  Writing computer
     programs is not easy at first.  But surprisingly, it takes no special
     skills to become quite good at it.  It does take time, though.  And
     patience.  Don't be concerned about mistakes.  You will make lots of
     them, for everybody does.  But you will learn to fix them.  Doing so
     is just part of what programming is.  So relax and go for it!     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                            Page 4 Of 10
     =====================================================================
     ABOUT THE BOSS: Forget it if you are the only user

          RBB includes a lot of tools useful to parents working with their
     children and to teachers working with students.  In these cases, there
     has to be a Boss, someone who is in charge.  But if you are the only
     user, you are also the Boss.  You can sign on with a user id of BOSS
     and press Enter when asked for a password, then use all the neat
     things built in for the Boss.  But you won't need to.  Here's why.

          Most of the tools available allow the Boss to control how RBB
     runs.  For example, if the Boss doesn't want the printer used, RBB can
     be instructed to deny usage.  But as an individual user, you won't
     want any controls.  As delivered, RBB is set up for an individual
     user.  All controls are turned off.  That is, all features are 
     available.  

          On the other hand, if you will guide the work of others, you
     will want to know more about the options available, including that of
     setting recommended school defaults.  Please see PTGUIDE.TXT on the
     disk for details.


    
     ======================================================================
     SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: The Minimum System

          As mentioned above, there are two versions of RBB.  The system
     requirements differ.  For RBBWIN, it's easily stated.  If your
     computer is running version 3.1 of Windows or a later one, RBBWIN will
     run.  You need about three megabytes of hard disk.

          RBBDOS requires much the same system, but only 640K of memory. 
     It requires an enhanced 386+ processor and a VGA monitor.  Use of a
     mouse is optional, for all features are accessible with keystrokes. 
     It requires about two megabytes of disk space.  

          Also note that RBBDOS requires a mouse driver, whether run in
     Windows or in MS-DOS.  The program will run just fine without one, but
     the mouse can not be used.  Since all options are available from the
     keyboard, this in no way effects the performance of the program.



     ======================================================================
     OLDER SYSTEMS: RBB Is Available For A 286

         We have a version for many older systems, provided there is
     support for a VGA monitor.  We can not guarantee success, but you may
     want to try it.  If interested, please call and give us the details
     about your computer.  We will do the rest.  Please see Contact
     Information at the end of this file.
     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                            Page 5 Of 10
     =====================================================================
     TROUBLESHOOTING: When To Give Up And Call For Help

     What To Try First|
          A modern computer loaded with software is a very complex system. 
     Sometimes things go wrong you will never see again.  So one thing you
     should try with any program that quits is to just exit and restart it. 
     It that's no go, try a warm boot by pressing and holding down Ctrl and
     Alt, then pressing Del.  This will often clear things up.  Worst case,
     turn the computer off, wait at least ten seconds, then turn it back
     on.  (Note the ten second wait is very important.  A circuit board can
     be damaged by snapping the power off, then right back on again.)

          The latter procedure is called cold booting.  It's just like
     turning the computer on for the first time in the day.  There are
     internal conflicts and confusions this can fix.  However, if you hit
     the same error, don't bother to try it again.  The problem is clearly
     connected in some way to RBB, not your system.


     RBB is running but it can't find a file

          When RBB starts up, it checks to see files and directories are
     where they are expected to be.  You will be informed if anything is
     amiss.  RBB also checks as possible when you make changes, as in a
     path or file name.  Still, something may slip passed all the built in
     checking.  If you know how to do so, it may help to exit the program
     and check to see the directory structure is correct and the file you
     need is there.  If you don't want to tackle this, or don't know how,
     give us a call.

          If you are just getting started with RBB, you can reinstall the
     system.  The problem is, this erases any record of your work.  It does
     not, however, erase your programs.  So you may want to give it a try.


     The Program Crashes

          A sophisticated error handling routine is built into RBB.  If an
     error occurs, RBB will trap it, inform you of what has happened, and
     try to indicate what can be done to fix the problem.  If you get such
     a message, it's worth your time to check out the suggestion.  You may
     be able to solve the problem easily.

          Given an error that halts the program, though, it's usually not
     this simple.  Even though RBB checks a lot of things when an error
     occurs, it's not always possible to point directly at the problem. 
     Specifically both the program and the error handler monitor the
     printer and diskette drives carefully, yet it's possible to miss
     something.  So even if there's no clue given, it's worth the time to
     check out the following.

          PRINTER: If RBB was trying to print, check to see if the printer
     is turned on and on-line.  See if there's paper and check for a jam. 
     Also there may be a loose cable.  These things are easy to check, so
     it's worth the trouble to do so.  But don't bother with anything
     exotic, like checking your printer set up.  If it was running earlier,
     this won't solve the problem.  If you feel the printer may have
     failed, run it with another program.  Likely it will work just fine. 
     This won't help in using RBB, but it will ease your mind.

     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                            Page 6 Of 10
     =====================================================================
     TROUBLESHOOTING: (Continued)

          DISKETTE DRIVE: If RBB was trying to read or write to a drive,
     check to be sure there's a diskette in the drive.  Be sure the drive
     door is properly closed.  Sometimes this is hard to see.  Try removing
     the diskette and putting it back in.  Also look for a label that has
     come unglued and is jamming something.  And you might want to try
     another diskette.  Once in a great while you will find a bad one.  And
     RBB may not have seen this as the problem.

          CABLES: While it's very unlikely, make a quick check to see if
     one has come lose.  It does happen.

          MEMORY: If there is any suggestion you have run out of memory,
     you may need help to figure what is happening.  But here is a thought. 
     When RBB starts up, it reads the amount of memory it finds available. 
     If there is less than RBB would like to have, the size of the editor
     is decreased until there is room to run.  This only means you will be
     unable to load quite as large a program.  But once loaded, you should
     be able to work with it.  However, a problem can occur if you have
     other programs running in the background, and one of them rushes in
     and grabs memory RBB thought was available.  If this is what happened,
     there are only two solutions.  Shut down background programs when
     running RBB.  Or be sure they are running in memory when RBB starts so
     it will not expect more memory than is always available.


     About RBBLOG.DT

          If you have tried the above and continue to get an error, there
     is nothing for it.  You will have to give us a call.  Before doing so,
     however, we need a copy of RBBLOG.DT.  This is the file to which RBB
     writes whenever there's a problem.  It provides information about your
     system and what the program was doing when it failed.  It is an Ascii
     text file so it can be loaded into most any editor or word processor
     and printed.  If RBB is running, there is an option to print it in the
     Boss's menu.


     So It's Time To Call!

          We are pretty good at fixing things, so please do not hesitate to
     call.  Sure.  There may be something wrong with your system.  But if
     your other programs are working, it is likely our problem and not
     yours.  Whatever the case, we want to get you up and running again. 
     So call.  Okay?  

          Our number is 209-742-6783.  We are generally available business
      days from 9 to 3 New York time.  On CompuServe, we can be reached at
      75041,2006.  On the web, we are bob@tiptopsoft.com.  Our mailing
      address is 5092A Tip Top Road, Mariposa, CA 95338.


     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                            Page 7 Of 10
     =====================================================================
     RBBBOSS: A tool for schools

          If you are a licensed user, a copy of RBBBOSS was delivered with
     RBB.  If you are using RBB personally, you will have no need for it. 
     It is strictly a tool for schools and parents who are homeschooling.
     Please see PTGUIDE.TXT on the disk for details.



     ======================================================================
     A NOTE TO TEACHERS: We have a deal for you

          A complimentary evaluation copy of Really Basic BASIC, set up
     specifically for schools, will be shipped upon receipt of a request in
     writing from your principal or other district administrator.  It
     differs from the evaluation version in that it contains the full set
     of lessons, and all nagging is eliminated.  We will also include a
     copy of RBBBOSS.EXE and printed copies of the User Manual and the
     Parent-Teacher Guide.




     ======================================================================
     SITE LICENSES: For schools only

          The following prices are effective for educational institutions
     as of October 1, 1997.  They are subject to change without notice. 
     They include a forty percent educational discount, more on volume,
     shipping and handling charges, one master disk and set of printed
     manuals per thirty copies or part there of.  Please note these prices
     apply if and only if ...
          
          * Each copy of RBB purchased in accordance with the license 
               aggreement is installed on only one system or used
               at only one station on a network.  However, an
               installed copy may be moved to another system so
               long as it is deleted from the first.

          * At most two individuals are eligible for support.  

      Qty    Copy  Total      Qty    Copy  Total      Qty    Copy  Total
        1   44.00     44       10   17.50    175      100    7.00    700
        2   33.50     67       20   13.30    266      200    5.31   1062
        3   28.33     85       30   11.33    340      300    4.51   1353
        5   23.20    116       50    9.24    462      500    3.68   1840

               Please call for quotes on quantities not specifically 
          given above.  Also call for costs of any additional master 
          disks, support, or services required.  Contact Information 
          is provided at the end of this file.

               When ordering, please submit an official purchase order 
          that fully defines what is needed.  We respond promptly.     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                            Page 8 Of 10
     =====================================================================
     LIMITED WARRANTY AND LICENSE AGREEMENT: The Contract

            You must assume all risk in using Really Basic BASIC.  
     Tip Top Software warrants that all will perform substantially as
     described in the documentation and that the disk delivered will be
     free of defects in material and workmanship for ninety days.

          THE ENTIRE LIABILITY OF THIS WARRANTY IS LIMITED TO THE
     AMOUNT PAID BY YOU AND SHALL NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES,
     ENCOMPASS ANY OTHER DAMAGES.  TIP TOP SOFTWARE SPECIFICALLY
     DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING,
     BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR
     FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

          Further, if you are using the evaluation version of RBB, you 
     agree to delete it from your system in the event you decide not
     to purchase a license within the 30-day evaluation period.



     ======================================================================
     SUPPORT POLICY: We are available!

          Whether you are evaluating RBB or have purchased a license, we
     want the program to run correctly on your system.  Given a problem,
     please call.  We will get right on it.  What you found may be a bug
     which, when fixed, assures no other customer will see it.  So it is
     to our advantage to help.  Besides, it's the right thing to do!  

          We offer support for a period of thirty days.  We set this limit
     only because there must be one.  In practice, users who experience
     problems usually do so in the first few days after installation.  
     In fact ten days is more than enough for most users.  Still, should a
     problem occur beyond the support period, please call.  We will help as
     possible.



     ======================================================================
     ASP POLICY STATEMENT: And Other Notes

           Really Basic BASIC was produced and is supported by Bob
     McElwain, a member of the Association of Shareware Professionals
     (ASP).  The ASP wants to make certain the shareware principle works
     for everyone.  If you are unable to resolve a shareware-related
     problem with an ASP member by contacting the member directly, the ASP
     would like to help.  You are invited to contact the ASP Ombudsman. 
     While the ASP can not provide technical support for any product, they
     can assist in resolving differences between yourself and an ASP 
     member.  Please feel free to write to the ASP Ombudsman at 545 Grover
     Road, Muskegon, MI USA 49442-9427.  The fax number is 616-788-2765.  
     Or address CompuServe Mail to the ASP Ombudsman, 70007,3536.


     Bob is also a member of ...

           NCTM: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

           CTM:  California Teachers of Mathematics

           ESC:  Educational Software Cooperative     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                            Page 9 Of 10
     =====================================================================
     PACKING LIST: Descriptions Of Files [Not all apply to all versions.]

     DV      .INI: Initialization file required by Windows
     DVDLL   .DLL: A library file installed in your Windows directory
     DVMDI   .DLL: A library needed by RBBWIN

     DVSERVER.EXT: The server for RBBWIN
     FILE_ID .DIZ: Brief description of RBB for vendors
     HISTORY .TXT: A brief revision history

     INSTALL.DT:   Data for INSTALL.EXE
     INSTALL.EXE:  The installation program
     MAINMENU.REB: Resource file for RBBWIN

     ORDER   .TXT: The order form.  Given below; available within RBB
     PTGUIDE .TXT: Abstract of the Parent-Teacher Guide
     RBB     .CFG: Miscellaneous data needed by both versions of RBB

     RBB     .ICO: The RBB icon, used by the program and by Windows
     RBB     .INI: Not presently in use
     RBB     .REM: A BASIC program of interest to those with a compiler

     RBB286  .EXE: RBB compiled for use with an 80286 processor
     RBBBOSS .EXE: Tools for school use
     RBBDOS  .EXE: MS-DOS version of Really Basic BASIC

     RBBDOS  .ICO: Windows icon for the MS-DOS version in Windows
     RBBFACE*.ICO: Happy/sad face icons used in some messages
     RBBINIT .DT:  User data; expands as users are added

     RBBLESS .DT:  Data used by RBB to guide users through the lessons
     RBBLOG  .DT:  On error, important data is written to this Ascii file.
     RBBMAIN .EXE: The principal Windows working file

     RBBMAIN .PIF: Required for Windows
     RBBMAN  .DT:  On-screen manual
     RBBRECS .DT:  User records; expands as users are added

     RBBTEXT .DT:  Data for messages
     RBBWIN  .EXE: Windows version of Really Basic BASIC
     RBBWIN  .REB: Resource file for RBBWIN

     RBBWIN  .PIF: Required by Windows
     README  .TXT: This file
     UNINSTAL.EXE: The uninstall program

     UNINSTAL.ICO: The uninstall icon for Windows
     VDV     .386: A library file installed in your Windows directory
     VENDOR  .DOC: Notes for vendors, on-line services and BBS operators 

     VENDINFO.DIZ: As above
     VENDINFO.DOZ: As above

          Other Files
     *SAMPLE. BAS: The Samples or solutions for each Lesson.  If RBB is
                   located in C:\RBB, the Samples are in C:\RBB\SAMPLES
     *       .ICO: With the exception of *.ICO listed specifically above,
                   these are the icon files used in messages.  If RBB is
                   located in C:\RBB, the icons are in C:\RBB\ICONS.  Any
                   or all may be replaced.  See Icons in the Index of the
                   manual for details.     ReadMe for Really Basic BASIC                           Page 10 Of 10  
     =====================================================================
     HELP WITH YOUR PROGRAMS: We may be able to assist!

          Being stuck is a terrible position to be in.  If it happens to
     you, or you simply have a question, Tip Top Software would like to
     help.  Send us a copy of your program and question via email.  Keep in
     mind we are in business to sell and support software, so we do not
     promise to respond.  Still, we are generally able to do so.  We will
     do our very best to get back to you promptly.

          We can be reached on the web at bob@tiptopsoft.com.  On
     CompuServe, use, 75041,2006 as the ID.  US Mail works, but we need a
     copy of your program we can run, which means you need to send one on a
     diskette.  Our address is Tip Top Software, 5092A Tip Top Road,
     Mariposa, CA 95338.

          If we feel your question and our answer may benefit others, we
     will post both on our web site: tiptopsoft.com.  You may want to check
     here for other questions answered, programs you can download, and the
     latest information we have about RBB in particular and Basic in
     general.




     =====================================================================
     CONTACT INFORMATION: How to get hold of us

           We welcome ideas, suggestions and criticism.  And we are
     ready to help as we can.

               * To order, call 800-799-8047.  For support, the number 
                 is 209-742-6783.  We are available business days from 
                 9am to 3pm, New York time.  

               * Our ID on CompuServe is 75041,2006.  

               * On the web, contact bob@tiptopsoft.com

               * Address correspondence to:

                         Tip Top Software
                         5092A Tip Top Road
                         Mariposa, CA 95338.  
  
          Please include a phone number; it's often quicker and easier to
     just call.  By whatever route, we would enjoy hearing from you!

          The latest evaluation version of RBB can be downloaded from the 
     web at tiptopsoft.com.  If you are running Windows, you need
     RBBWIN.ZIP, which includes the MS-DOS version.  If you are not running
     Windows, you need RBBDOS.ZIP.

                                             Tip Top Software








               End Of File: ReadMe For Really Basic BASIC
