Hi folks,
As promised, I have just released version 1.18 of the PineTools software
for the ARMbo(o)k.
There are several changes in this release, all aimed at improving the
networking experience:
1) The auto network config program no longer checks for SetUpNet
file. This basically means that it will work correctly on all
ARMbooks (or should do). I have tested it on several here, and
it seems to be good. The network configuration is dynamic,
automatic, and effective.
2) You can create an obey file called "Shares" in
!Boot.Choices.Laptop and put *Share commands in it
eg. *Share SDFS::0.$ ARMbook
Or, to connect to another drive on your network:
*ShareFSicon HardDisc4
(for example)
This file will then be run when you connect, either via the
auto-networking program, or via !PineTools' "Activate USB net"
button.
This allows you to automate sharing drives/folders, but only
when the network becomes active. Or, you could do other things,
I guess - anything you can do with an Obey file, really! It
basically allows you to trigger commands only once your network
connection becomes live, which avoids error messages if you're
not connected at startup.
As usual, the software is available for free download from the ARMbook
users' download site. If you've not visited before, look inside the back
cover of your printed welcome guide for details. Make sure to download
1.18, the latest version.
About auto networking
=====================
If you haven't yet tried out the auto-usb-network feature, I strongly
recommend doing so - it's really nice. To access it, run !PineTools, then
click the *picture* above "Activate USB net". A window will open
providing more options including the automatic program. You can set it to
run at startup, which is probably the best way to use it.
It will quietly sit in the background, and monitor usb ethernet
connection. When connected, and with a live cable plugged in, it will
automate setting up the network and DHCP-ing a connection, then activate
things like Access (ShareFS) etc. If the adapter or cable is
disconnected, it'll respond accordingly, and if re-connected, it'll
restore your connection. All without the need to reboot.
I believe this can be particularly helpful for wifi adapters which may not
be fully initialised at bootup, which can prevent the traditional
PreDesk-based ethernet setup working without introducing lengthy delays.
With auto-network enabled, it'll bring up the network connection once the
wifi adapter wakes up and goes "live". Please note that I haven't had a
chance to get first-hand experience of this (time!) but I've had it
confirmed by others.
Basically this is the kind of automated network config that is possible on
other platforms, but is not normally possible for RISC OS. Life's better
with ARMbo(o)k! :)
Best wishes,
Andrew
--
R-Comp
22 Robert Moffat, High Legh, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 6PS
Tel: 01925 755043 Fax: 01925 757377 http://www.rcomp.co.uk
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