Claris has the works as newcomer solution
I HAVE recently purchased a notebook computer (a Macintosh) which came with Claris Works software. This software has so far been easy enough to use with its word processing, graphics, database, spreadsheets and even communications functions.
I have also tried my colleague's Microsoft software package on her Macintosh and found it equally appealing and user friendly. At this point, I am still a computer ''newcomer'' and I do not have any particular preference between Microsoft and Claris Works.
I would like to stick to one overall software package and continue to upgrade it as the software improves. Which one would be more widely applicable, extensive in its functions and more powerful? MAK WING-NGA North Point Stick with Claris Works. You've got it for nothing and it's just as good as Microsoft Works.
''Works'' packages are great to get going with when you are a beginning, but they do have their limitations, particularly when it comes to functionality.
When you find yourself advancing to the point where you need more functionality than a ''works'' package offers you, then consider buying the full-blown versions of the software you will need, i.e. word processor, spreadsheet and the like. Until then, what you have is all you probably need.
IN response to the question and answer in this column last week, reader Vince Loden offers interested parties a copy of freeware called CacheOut that does pretty much what Animals, the program recommended, can do.
Those interested in receiving a copy of CacheOut can fax me at the number below.
In addition, most recent upgrades to popular commercial applications are compatible with the Macintosh Quadra's 68040 chip.
The following is a list of compatible software (non-compatible versions within brackets): Microsoft Word 5.0 and 5.1 (4.0 or earlier).
Microsoft Excel 4.0 (3.0 or earlier).
PageMaker 4.2 (4.0 or earlier).
FreeHand 3.1.
Illustrator 3.2 (3.0).
QuarkXpress 3.1 or 3.1.1.
Adobe Photoshop 2.5 and 2.01 (2.0).
Mr Loden also offers a English-language consultancy service for Mac users. He can be paged on 1163883 call 650.
COMPUTER work at the office has become a nightmare. Some of my colleagues have developed carpal tunnel syndrome. My question is, do you know of a product that will help me when I'm not using my own computer? Many times, I have to use computers in otheroffices, and although my computer is set up to reduce strain, most are not.
JOHN LAM Causeway Bay Carpal tunnel syndrome, sometimes called the business affliction of the 1990s, is a painful condition that affects people who type on typewriter or computer keyboards for long periods of time.
In past columns, special keyboards, mechanical desk braces and keyboard pads have been discussed. But, as you say, most of these devices are not portable and, with the exception of the wrist pads, are fairly uncommon.
A new product that might make things easier for you is the MouseMitt glove.
MouseMitt is a fingerless glove made of expandable Lycra with a built-in wrist pad.
The pad provides a cushion between the wrist and the desk or keyboard surface. The pad is fairly thick and gently keeps the wrist in a more natural position. A slick patch on the glove allows you to glide your hand over smooth surfaces.
MouseMitt comes in two styles and a variety of sizes, colours and patterns.
MouseMitt Computer Glove is a single glove (specify right or left) with a small pad. This glove is intended for those who find they need support when using a mouse.
MouseMitt KeyBoarders is a pair of gloves intended for keyboard use. The built-in pad is nearly twice as wide.
MouseMitt Computer Glove sells for US$9.95; a pair of MouseMitt KeyBoarders sells for US$19.95.
To order, call MouseMitt International in the US on (408) 335-9599.
