96-53 *** Time sensitive information - please read now. ***

To: All LINK libraries
From: Greg Barniskis, SCLS Automation (gregb@scls.lib.wi.us)
Date: September 19, 1996
Re: Switching LINKcat terminals to VT100 emulation


The use of Information Gateways requires that the majority of LINKcat terminals be set to use VT100 emulation. All PAC terminals must be changed to VT100 before October 1 and most staff terminals should follow suit. Terminals used exclusively for circulation (or connected to PC Backup computers) may be the exception to this rule. The use of receipt printers on primary circulation terminals requires the use of VT100 in any case, so the use of ADDS A2 should be a rare exception if used at all. Current plans call for ALL Wyse 150 terminals to be changed to VT100 - please contact Automation if you wish to note any exceptions for your library.

There are three simple setup changes required for this transition - two on your end and one at central site. The work at central site is scheduled to be completed in the late evening of Monday, September 23 or the early morning of Tuesday, September 24. The changes on your end need to be completed just prior to logging in on Tuesday.


The two changes you must complete before logging in on Tuesday:

1) Change the parameter F2: Personality = VT100

2) Change the programming of your Print/Send key (and other fkeys as needed)


SCLS is aware that there are some ongoing display problems associated with VT100 terminals. These have not been cleared up yet because they are "pseudo-random" - they are infrequent and it is often not possible to repeat a specific problem report. This makes the source of the problems very difficult to trace. We are working with Dynix and other equipment and software vendors to try to eliminate those problems we can trace. Until we do, please have patience. In the meantime, we refer you to LINK memo 96-33 on VT100 display problem troubleshooting. A copy of that memo is attached.

Also attached are copies of pages VIII-10 and VIII-11 of the LINK Troubleshooting Manual. These pages (previously distributed) describe how to program the Print/Send key for Wyse terminals in VT100 mode. Please make sure that these pages have been inserted in all copies of the Troubleshooting manual.

Finally, we remind you that Information Gateway services frequently make use of special keys on the keyboard. Specifically, you may need to use <Tab>, <Escape> and the <arrow> keys to navigate these services. When the PAC and staff terminals were installed, many of these keys were programmed to simulate <backspace> or <return> so that they did not interfere with LINKcat (which has no use for them). Since being installed, many of these keys have been reprogrammed for other purposes. Now, these keys should be deprogrammed, especially on all PAC terminals. On staff terminals where lots of keyboard shortcuts are needed you may continue to program these keys as you see fit, with the stipulation that you may have problems with Gateways on those terminals.


To deprogram a function key and return it to its "normal" behavior:

1) Hold down the <Shift> key and press <Setup> to enter the terminal parameter screen.

2) Press <F10> to enter function key editing mode.

3) Hold down the <Ctrl> key and press the <fkey> you wish to deprogram.

4) When the screen indicates "<Fkey> =", press the <Home> key to deprogram that fkey.

5) Return to step 3 to deprogram other keys, or

6) Press <F12>, then <space bar>, then <F12> to save the changes.