Tools

For me, AppleWin is an invaluable tool.  By running it on my laptops, I can take my Apple // with me, when I’m out and around.  The laundry room in my complex is right at the outer range of my wireless network, so I can take my laptop to the laundry room do stuff online and in AppleWin that otherwise I could not do if I relied on my actual Apple //c.  There are other places I can go with my laptop, like a couple of local restaurants and the library.  During nicer weather I can sit outdoors as well (not very likely, “The sun… ieeee, poof”,  flames and cloud of smoke ensue).

CiderPress is a utility for managing Apple II file archives and disk images.

If you are going to download files for your Apple II and your intermediate machine runs Windows, you are going to want a copy of CiderPress.  I run copies of AppleWin on both my Windows 7 and Windows XP machines and have CiderPress running on them also.

I also run a copy of AppleWin on my Ubuntu Linux laptop, using Wine.  Although I haven’t tried it yet, I would imagine CiderPress could be run under Wine also.

I’ve had CiderPress for a little while and haven’t even scratched the surface of its abilities.  If you use AppleWin, there is even a setting for connecting AppleWin and CiderPress.  With this set up, you can mount compressed disk images in AppleWin and CiderPress automatically decompresses the the image on the fly.

Originally, I was going to show you how to use different features of CiderPress.  I’ve changed my mind, as there are just so many different ways to manipulate file and disk images.  You’ll need to see the web site for CiderPress.

Hardware wise, the printer can be one of the biggest tools.  There is nothing like being able to run a printout of what you are working on and hold it in your hands.

My printer paper arrived.  I ordered a case of 1000 sheets through Amazon on Tuesday morning and it arrived Friday afternoon by UPS.  Looking at the box, I can’t help wondering if I ordered enough.  It stands about 5 or 5 1/2″ tall and doesn’t look like much, but as much printing as I remember doing, it should be fine.  I’m excited, but impatiently waiting for my ribbons.