Re: best format for distribution (SHK? DSK? ZIP?)

[Eric Rucker <bhtooefr@gmail.com>]

On Jul 31, 3:11 pm, Ivan X <ivan...@yahoo.com> wrote:
> Hello A2 world,
>
> If I'm planning on distributing more of the Apple II software I've written
> on my web page, what's considered to be the best format(s) for distribution
> these days?
>
> The reason I ask is that I pretty much spend my time in Apple //e emulators,
> so I'm biased towards 140K disk image files because they're most convenient
> for me, and also quickly converted to disks via ADT Pro for those who are
> set up to do so.
>
> However, I realize some users download directly to their Apple II's,
> especially IIgs users; if so, I'd think image files would be less convenient
> because they require making back into disks, or utilities are needed to
> extract files from them, and I'm not even sure what exists for that, if
> anything.
>
> So, what's best? DSK? SDK? ZIP? SHK? 800K(PO)? Some combination of these?
> Something else?
>
> As an aside, what zip decoders exist? Any for 8-bit machines? Likewise, are
> there any tools for extracting files from disk images? (I wrote a
> ProDOS-based utility for extracting files from 3.3 images many years ago,
> which was crude but functional, and may be one of the items I want to put up
> if there isn't something better out there.)
>
> Thanks,
> Ivan.
>
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I'd say offer both .SHK and at least one disk image choice.

.SHK is easiest to work with on a real Apple II, unless you use
ADTPro.

.2MG or .PO is the best bet for a disk image, and you can do any size
that way. (Nothing wrong with a 140 kiB .PO, if it's what makes the
most sense. Just consider your audience when setting the size - some 8-
bit users might not have a 3.5" drive, whereas some IIGS users might
have gotten annoyed by their 5.25" drives and disconnected them.)