Re: Mac fork stipper program MIA (needed for A2s)

[pubpc1@library.ucla.edu]

shack@onyx.southwind.net (Randy Shackelford) wrote:
>Nathan Mates <nathan@visi.com> wrote:
>in response to my reply:
>>>Randy, why don't you just use GSHK, the GS specific Shrinkit, to
>>>open the files?  The GS handles resource forks fine, if you want
>>>to know.  That's much simpler than your round-about Mac based
>>>"solution."
>
>First comment: I have *never* had a problem with forked files, neither
>on my IIgs nor my //e with workstation card. Why? Because I use server
>volumes and file sharing to get files back and forth. You have no problem
>accessing any file on a server volume in ProDOS 8, provided every name
>in the path is ProDOS-legal. I am trying to lay to rest the myth that it
>is impossible to reliably get files to transfer. Actually I never use
>floppy disks, and two of my recycled AOL disks quit working on me while
>testing this process.
>
>Second comment: someone will have to explain to me how changing a few
>settings in the customize menu in Fetch is "round-about". Also, it's
>common for net client apps to use additional software to do stuff,
>either in the form of plug-ins or as helper apps.

It is round-about if you have a GS, which can use GSHK and GSCII+.

Look, I know you are trying to uncover the secret that the FAQ
doesn't want us to know: transfer from a Mac to an Apple II is
a snap.  I agree with you.  However, in your fight with Nate,
both of you have unwittingly lead people to believe that the GS
must use 8-bit Shrink-It! and 8-bit BINSCII and that the GS can't
handle resource forks with any program.

In your example, you said your _GS_ handled the files once ProTYPE
stripped the resource forks and typed them.  It would have been
better if you said your _//e_ did so.

For the record, if you have a GS and a copy of GSHK, none of this
argument or the "problems" listed in the FAQ apply!  GSHK does
not care one bit about the resource fork (and to those who do not
know, most GS programs HAVE a resource fork).  Also, GSCII+ will
debinscii any .bsq files without problem, unlike decrepit old
BINSCII.

What's needed for GS users is to get them a copy of GSHK (and maybe
GSCII+) in the first place.  Nate, how about suggesting to Steve
C. if he would sell disks containing them?  I believe Joe Kohn's
Shareware Solutions library already has such a disk.

All the pieces would then fall into place.

-Scott G.