CFOG's PIP, July 1987, Volume 5 No. 9, Whole No. 57, page 10

"Hardwire": A Program to Transfer Files Between Laptop Computers and Desktops

by Kevin P. Murphy

Copyright 1987 Kevin P. Murphy, all rights reserved.

About 3 years ago, I purchased a Radio Shack TRS80/100 "lap portable" computer for doing field research. My "big" base computer was my Osborne 1. As is often the case, I found that, the Portable 100 might be compatible with the O1 but that neither the Radio Shack publication that offered a program which was supposed to make file transfer possible, nor the Radio Shack sales personnel who were supposed to understand my machine, were able to make such file transfers happen. Fortunately, CFOG counted among its members Henry Kisor, who had developed such a program. For three years I have used it, with satisfying results, to transfer information up to the O1.

Recently, I purchased a Kaypro 2X to take the load off my aging Ozzie, and to enable me to stay in business should the O1 quit functioning. I purchased the Kaypro from Pomerleau Computing, located in Hyde Park (312-667-2075). Naturally, I wanted to retain the ability to transfer the Model 100's files to the "big" computer. Before trying the Kisor program, however, I learned of a software program, called "Hardwire" that has been developed by Pomerleau. I was impressed by Hardwire's features, which include the ability to transfer files both ways. I purchased the software shortly after purchasing the 2X, and I have been well satisfied with it. It is menu driven, fast, and easy to use. I believe that the software has been reviewed in the locally published "ComputerPeople Monthly," and I know that it was reviewed in the July issue of Computer Shopper.

Hardwire is laden with useful features that permit its use with the Model 100, NEC 8201, and Epson PX-8 (Geneva) to convert files from one word processor to another, and to transfer files between two personal computers. The software comes in CP/M and MS-DOS versions. I found the small (approximately 20 page) manual to be complete and coherent, enabling me to start using the software quickly and accurately. In my experience, at least, that is no small accomplishment for a manual to achieve.

Finally, I found the staff at Pomerleau to be helpful, in terms of ability, and in willingness, to help. That was nice, too.

Either version of Hardwire may be purchased for $39.95, or both for $59.95. If you need a null-modem or other special cable, they may be purchased from Pomerleau at varying prices, depending upon the cable.