
If you own an ATARI personal computer or are thinking of acquiring one, this handbook is a must! It's an invaluable resource of operating and programming information that shows you, step-by-step, how to get the most performance from your machine, including user-defined high resolution graphics.
Written in easy-to-understand, non-technical language, the book assumes no prior computer knowledge; all you need is right here, including actual programming examples. The instructions are designed for an ATARI 800 model with BASIC cartridge CS14002, but most data also applies to the model 400.
Starting at point "A", you'll learn what a program is, what types of programs are available for your machine, and about the architecture of your computer (types of memory, graphics and special function keys, and available peripherals). The principles of program organization are covered, including flowcharts and their use, the difference between direct commands and statements, editing keys and the procedures for using them, and find out about error codes. Program storage and the how-to's for merging programs, using PRINT and POSITION to place words and characters on your screen, and how to use variables and string variables are covered in easy-to-follow sequence. Then, it's on to creating loops to save memory, the IF ... THEN and ON ... GOTO commands, and how to use subroutines to save computer memory space and programming time. Working with strings, finding and trapping errors, arithmetic functions, graphic modes (including control of colors and sound) and special computer functions like PEEK, POKE, and LOCATE are all explained and illustrated with program examples.
For even more graphics action, you find out how to work with the 6502 instruction set, and learn how to directly command the ANTICS graphics chip to allow more modes and colors on the screen than is possible with BASIC.