Re: Cross-Works - changing AWKS files to MS/DOS

[glyn@cs.UAlberta.CA (Reade Glyn Devin)]

In article <d684777@pro-scat.cts.com> archm@pro-scat.cts.com (Arch Mirrielees) writes:
>Am soliciting reactions from any users of CrossWorks, the program designed
>to convert files written with AppleWorks to MS/DOS, and vice versa.
> 
>My specific interest is moving AppleWorks spread sheets to Lotus 1.2.3.
> 
>And, if capable, is/are there any limitation(s) on the version numbers (of
>AWKS or Lotus) involved?

(Assuming AWKS is Appleworks Classic:    )

I use Appleworks 3.0 and my wife has an (old) version of Lotus 1.2.3 (v2).
I have noticed no data loss from the Apple to the IBM on spreadsheet
files nor word processor files (to WordPerfect 5.1).  I suspect that newer
versions of Lotus will similarily compatible.

Note that not all features of v5.1 can be imported back into appleworks,
such as graphics, etc.

I have not tried any database transfers, nor spreadsheet transfers to the
Apple.

>Any responses would be greatly appreciated - either pro or con.

Translations in general seem to be transparent.

It has an Appleworks-like interface, but is limited; for example, 
directory-walking is not supported -- you must go to the change-path
menu item, then back to whatever other mode you were using if you
want to change directories.

As long as you have serial cards/ports in both your IBM and Apple,
the package comes with everything you need.  You will likely have
to change some of your control-panel settings (if you're on a IIgs).
It supports both modem and zero-slot LAN (serial-port cable) transfers
at up to 19200bps.

It is by no means my favorite software package, but it gets the job
done, which is all I ask of it.

If you were asking for AppleworksGS<-->Lotus conversions, this would
be dependant on the ability of AppleworksGS to write Appleworks Classic
spreadsheet files; Crossworks does not understand AWGS-format files.  
As it has been a long time since I used AWGS, I do not remember if this
can be done.

>Would prefer answer(s) via E-mail, but if you think others would be
>interested, please put them on the net.

csa2 is the appropriate forum.  I hope this is what you were looking for.

--Devin Reade		glyn@cs.ualberta.ca