BackWater II Manual - Command Descriptions

There are different levels of commands available to the users of Backwater depending on the level of access they are allowed. Users who are not logged on have a restricted command set available to them. Logging on with your user number gives you additional commands that can be used. Remote sysops (Level 4 users) have additional maintance commands available. The local Super user has several more commands available to maintain the system.

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BackWater II Manual -- Commands available to all users



AU - AU[thors] (no parameters) (show version/authors)

Displays version number, authors, and system information.

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ALL --- ALL (show all new messages)

When you log on the system with your user number, the system will place you at the end of the last message that was on the system the last time you were on. This holds true no matter which room you move to. Thus to see only the new messages, just use the PRINT command immediately after entering each room.

The ALL command provides a way to look at all new messages in all the rooms without having to individually select each room and issue the PRINT command. The one exception is the MAIL room. You must specifically use the MAIL command to see any private mail that has been sent to you.

When you use the BYE or OFF command, the last message number entered on the system will be stored in your user record. The number is used the next time you log on to determine the last message read. The assumption is made that you read all messages previously to issuing the BYE or OFF command. If you have read your mail, the mail that you have read will be deleted from the system when you use the BYE or OFF command.

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ANSI --- ANSI [Y/N] (ANSI mode select)

Must have a parameter of Y or N for "Yes" or "No", or T or F for "True" or False". If a Y or T is given, then ANSI mode will be selected. If a N or F is given, then ADM3 emulation mode will be selected. Default at start of call is "N" (not selected). When you login, ANSI will be set to your last setting (see SET command). The command is given in the form "ANSI Y" or in the form "ANSI N".

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AP --- AP[ply] (no parameters) (apply for user #)

Used to apply for a user number to allow greater access to the system. When you apply for a user number, you will be asked for a first name, a last name, where you are calling from, and a password. The length of all four cannot exceed 35 characters, but the individual lengths may be adjusted to suit your need. This allows long names (though the password will be restricted in length) or a long password with a short name. A user name (first and last) must be at least 2 characters and no more then 22 characters long. Where you are calling from can take up from 2 to 30 characters (less that used by your name). The remaining space is allocated to your password. The user number is provided by the system.

If you are already logged on as a user it is assumed that you wish to change your password. An application can be requested at anytime. When the system first answers a call, it always assumes user #0 unless you log in. Initial use of the apply command will flag a note to the sysop about the request. Upon approval you will be granted greater access to the system.

The command is given in the form "AP" after which you will be asked for the specific information needed. For more information on how to apply for a user name and number, enter the command "HELP NAME".

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BBS --- BBS (list local area BBS systems)

You can obtain a list of other local area BBS systems by entering the command "BBS". This list is rather lengthy, so you may want to capture it to a file on your system to read at your leisure. The list is updated on an irregular basis.

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BO --- BO[ttom] [S] [-][###] (go to bottom)
END --- END [S] [-][###] (go to bottom)

If no number is given, goes to the last line of the currently selected disk, makes it current, and prints the line. If a positive number is given, then the current line becomes that many lines below the line you were on. If a negative number is given, then the current line becomes that many lines up from the bottom of the selected disk. If the "S" session parameter is given, then session numbers are assumed rather than line numbers. Note that if you enter data on the disk, that means that the last line of the disk is the last line of your session, and the first line you entered is the first line of your session. When a session number is referenced, then the current line will become the first line of the indicated session.

The command is given in the form of "BO" for go to bottom, "BO 10" for go to 10th line up from bottom, or "BO S" to go to bottom session, or "BO S 2" to go to the second session up from the bottom.

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BY --- BY[e] (no parameters) (terminate call)
OF --- OF[f] (no parameters) (close files)

The BYE command causes system to hangup and terminate your call.

The OFF command is the opposite of the ON command. It causes the files to be updated and closed. This is the same as the BYe command.

When you use the BYE or OFF command, the last message number entered on the system will be stored in your user record. The number is used the next time you log on to determine the last message read. The assumption is made that you read all messages previously to issuing the BYE or OFF command. If you have read your mail, the mail that you have read will be deleted from the system when you use the BYE or OFF command.

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CA --- CA[ll] (no parameters) (print call log)
LOG --- LOG (no parameters) (print call log)

Shows current call number and message number. Also shows the length of time for this call, and time left.

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CC --- CC [Y/N] (control characters visible)

Must have a parameter of Y or N for "Yes" or "No", or T or F for "True" or "False". If a Y or T is given, then the control characters will be printed as capital letters preceeded with a "^". If a N or F is given, then control characters will be printed as normal characters. Default at start of call is "Y" (visible). When you login, CC will be set to your last setting. The command is given in the form "CC Y" or in the form "CC N".

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CH --- CH[ange] [sp][del][string][del][cr] (remove string)
CH --- CH[ange] [sp][del][string][del][del] (remove string)
CH --- CH[ange] [sp][del][string][del][del][#] (rem str in # lines)
CH --- CH[ange] [sp][del][string][del][string][del] (replace string)
CH --- CH[ange] [sp][del][string][del][string][del][#] (rep str in # lines)

The change command consists of two basic types, and takes on five different forms. The first type of the change command is the delete string. The change works on the current line, it looks for all of the occurances of the specified string, and removes them. The rest of the line is scrunched together.

Because of the form of the command, it is somewhat specific in how it is entered. The command "CHange" is to be followed by a space, followed by a delimiter character. Valid delimiters are: / \ . , ' " or a single space. If a space is used as the delimiter, the space immediately following the CHange command is assumed to be the first delimiter.

The first delimiter is followed by the string to remove which is followed by a trailing delimiter that matches the first one. A third delimiter may also be provided if so desired. (i.e. CH /string//) for those who are used to that form.

Once the command is finished, the current line will be redisplayed. The string can be removed from more than one line if desired by adding a number after the third delimiter. The command "CH /string//5" would search 5 lines starting with the current line for the specified string and remove the specified string from each line if found.

When the multi-line string command is given, only the total lines changed is displayed rather than displaying each line as it is changed. The current line pointer is always left at the line that it was on before the change command was given.

The replace string form of the change command works like the remove string form of the command, but contains a second string between the second and third delimiters. Thus the command "CHange /old string/new string/" would search the current line for "old string" and replace it with "new string". During the change, the line length is adjusted to fit any changes. If the line length exceeds 79 characters the extra characters are truncated off the end of the line. Once the change is finished, the changed line will be redisplayed.

Multiple lines can be changed as with the remove string form of the command by adding a number after the third delimeter. This will cause the number of lines specified to be searched and the indicated change made in each line if the specified string is found. As with the remove string form of the command, the lines are not displayed if a multi-line change is requested. Instead the number of lines changed will be displayed when the command is finished. The current line pointer will always be left at the line that it was at before the change command was given.

If the requested data string is not found, then the message "NOT FOUND" will be printed. The CHange command is only allowed within your own session. Once a change is made, it cannot be unchanged.

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CO --- CO[lour] [Y/N] (enable ANSI colour)

Must have a parameter of Y or N for "Yes" or "No", or T or F for "True" or "False". If a Y is given, then the display will be shown in colour via ANSI colour control. If a N is given, then the colour mode will be disabled. Default at the beginning of the call is CO N. When you login CO will be set to your last setting (see SET command). The command is given in the form of "CO Y" or "CO N".

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DA --- DA (no parameters) (select Drive A)
DB --- DB (no parameters) (select Drive B)

The DA command selects drive A and opens it for use. If the drive wasn't already open, then the current line is set to one. Drive A is always selected at the beginning of the call. The command is given in the form "DA".

The DB command selects drive B and opens it for use. If the drive wasn't already open, then the current line is set to one. Drive A is always selected at the beginning of the call. The command is given in the form "DB".

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DE --- DE[lete] [-][###] [del] [-][###] (delete line(s))

Deletes the specified line or lines. If no number is given, the current line is assumed. If a positive number is given, that line becomes current, and is deleted. If a negative number is given, we go up that many lines, make it current, and delete it. If a second number is given then all the lines starting from (and including) the first one specified down to (and including) the last one specified are deleted. If the number given is negative, it is assumed to refer to that many lines above the current line.

When only a single line is to be deleted, the line will be printed first and a prompt asking if you really want to delete the line will be presented; "DELETE (Y/N) ? ". If you answer with "Y", "Yes", "T", or "True", the line will be deleted, otherwise the delete command will be aborted, and the specified line will not be deleted. The current line pointer will be left at the line specified for the delete.

If a multiple line delete is requested, you will be prompted: "Delete ### > ### (Y/N) ?" where the deletion of the line range requested is given. If you answer with anything but "Y", "Yes", "T", or "True", the delete command will be aborted, and the specified line will not be deleted. The current line pointer will be left at the first line specified for the delete.

An attempt to delete outside your own session will cause an error message to be given. The [del] in the command example is any non-numeric character or word or a single space. "DELETE FROM LINE 10 TO LINE 20" would be an acceptable form of the delete command. Unlike KIll, deleted lines may be undeleted with the UNdelete command. (See HELP KILL.)

A deleted line is shown with a "@" following the line number when line numbers are on. In addition, deleted lines will be shown in inverse video when ANSI is on (Y). If Color is on, deleted lines will be shown in red.

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DOC --- DOC[tor] (artificial stupidity program)
ELI --- ELI[za] (artificial stupidity program)

You can enter into the world of artificial stupidity by selecting DOCtor. Learn more about your innermost feelings, cure your neuroses, or generate new ones! Have fun. Use ^C or enter "QUIT" to return to the command prompt.

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DO --- DO[wn] [S] [-][###] (Go down ### lines)

Goes down the number of lines specified on the currently selected disk from the current line, makes it the new current line, and displays the line. If no parameter or "0" is given, then "1" is assumed. If the number is preceeded with "-" the command is reversed and it goes up instead of down. Trailing data on the command line is ignored, thus "DOwn 10 more" will go down ten lines. "DOwn a line" would get translated to "DO 1".

If the "S" session option is given, the command works on sessions rather than lines. If a session number is referred to, then the current line becomes the first line of the indicated session. Thus "DOwn 2 Sessions" would place the current line pointer at the first line of the 2nd session down from the current session.

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EL --- EL [Y/N] (enable eol delay)

Must have a parameter of Y or N for "Yes" or "No", or T or F for "True" or "False". If a Y or T is given, then a delay of 1/4 second will occur at the end of each line. If a N or F is given, then no delay will occur. Default at the start of the call is "N". When you log in EL will be set to your last setting (see SET). The command is given in the form of "EL Y" or "EL N."

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EN --- EN[ter] (enter mode)
ADD --- ADD (add lines)

Selects enter mode. Data is entered at the end of the disk. Enter mode is exited by typing a control C. If the control C is entered while a line is being typed (no CR yet) that line will not be saved. An alternate form of exit from the enter mode is to send two consecutive carriage returns.

Note that any entry that occurs means that the last line of the disk is the last line of your session, and the first line you entered is the first line of your session. Your session is terminated and the user file updated when you use the "BYe" command. You can use the REplace or CHange commands to edit your entry. The form of the enter command is "EN".

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EP --- EP[rompt] (no parameters) (enter prompt)

When you give this command, you will be asked to type a single character. This character will become the enter prompt. The enter prompt will be sent when BWMS II is waiting for an input. This provides a means to trip automatic programs when an input is required. If you enter a carriage return, then no prompt character will be sent. The default prompt at the beginning of the call is none. When you log in, the prompt character will be set to your last setting (see SET command).

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FA --- FA (Find All)

Find all the occurances of in the currently selected disk file. When an occurance is found in a line, the line is displayed and the search moves on to the next line. Because of the operation of the command, the format is strict. It consists of the two letters FA followed by a space, followed by the string to search for. If the command is FA, the last used string for the FA or FI command is used for the search. The command FA will search for a blank line, while the command FA will search for a space.

Searching starts at the beginning of the disk (line 1) and progresses to the end of the disk at which point the search is terminated. The current line is then returned to the line you were on prior to the initiation of the search.

When a line is found with the requested string in it, it will be displayed. It is usually best to have line numbers on "NU Y" during the search so that the line number that the string was found in can be used for later reference.

If no string has been previously provided since the call began, a blank line ( only) is searched for as default. If the requested data string is not found, then the message "NOT FOUND" will be displayed. If a control C is sent while a search is in progress, the search will stop, and the find command will be abandoned. The current line pointer will be returned to the position at which it was before the find command was given. The command is given in the form "FA BackWater". The command is case specific.

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FI --- FI[nd] (find data)

Find the first occurance of in the currently selected disk file starting with the line following the currently selected line. When an occurance is found in a line, the current line pointer is moved to that line, and the line is displayed.

Because of the operation of the command, the format is strict. It consists of the two letters FI followed by an optional [nd], followed by a space, followed by the string to search for. If the command given is FInd, the last used string for the FI or FA command is used for the search. The command FInd will search for a blank line, while the command FI will search for a space. If no string has been previously provided since the call began, a blank line ( only) is searched for as default.

If the requested data string is not found, then the message "NOT FOUND" will be printed. If the current line is the last line on the disk, then searching will begin with the first line on the disk. If a control C is sent while the command is in operation, the command is aborted and the current line is left at the line at which the system was on when the control C was sent. The command is given in the form "FI BackWater". The command is case specific.

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GO --- GO [command] (command preface)
PL --- PL[ease] [command] (command preface)

A command may be preceeded with the two letter preface of "GO". The preface is simply thrown away and the command following is parsed instead. This allows the command form of "GO TO LINE 21" which would cause line 21 to be made current and displayed.


A command may also be preceeded with the "PLease" preface. The preface is simply thrown away and the command following is parsed instead. This allows the command form of "PLEASE GO TO LINE 21" to be given, which would cause line 21 to be made current and displayed. (See the "GO" command.)

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? --- ? [cmd] (display help information)
H --- H[elp] [cmd] (display help information)
HEL --- HEL[p] [cmd] (display help information)
CMD --- CMD [cmd] (display help information)
GE --- GE[neral] [cmd] (display help information)
NA --- NA[me] [cmd] (display help information)
MAN --- MAN[ual] (no parameters) (display all help information)

Display help information. There are 2 forms of the help command: "HElp" and "?". If no parameter is provided, then a one screen display of the available help commands is displayed. If a parameter of a valid command is given, then specific information on that command will be displayed. Thus the command "HELP LIST" or the command "? LIST" will show help information for the LIST command. If the command referenced is unknown, "HELP CMD" will be shown.

If the MANual command is given, the entire list of all help information is displayed. This command is intended for those who wish to capture a local copy of the manual for BWMS II.



HELP CMD (general help)

Most commands are based on a two or three letter sequence. Parsing is done by searching on the first two or three letters, and directing processing to the appropriate subprocess based on the command. If a numeric value is found rather than a command, the "LiNe" command is assumed.

For commands that expect a numeric parameter, the command line is searched for the numeric value. Anything else in the line is ignored. For commands that expect a second numeric value, a delimiter is expected between the first and second numbers of a non-numeric value (a space, a comma, word, or group of words). Numbers can be positive or negative (though not all commands will accept negative numbers).

For commands that require a Y or N response, the answer "Yes", "No", "True", or "False" may be given. The first Y, N, T or F that is found in the command line is assumed to be the response. For commands that don't expect a parameter the rest of the command line is ignored.

The find and change commands look for strings as per the definition of the commands. The ON command being special is parsed per its definition. The HElp command also is parsed as per definition. If a command is not found the error message "INVALID COMMAND" will be printed. If an error occurs while processing a command, the error message "INVALID PARAMETER" will be displayed.

For commands that can operate on sessions, if a "Session" or "Message" parameter is found before or after the first or second numeric parameter the command is assumed to be a session related command rather then a line related one.

For help on individual commands, enter the command "HELP" followed by the specific command you wish to see. For more information on the use of the system, enter the command "HELP GEneral".



HELP GE --- HELP GE[neral] (General System Information)

While entering data, there are two ways to get out. The first is to use a control C, which if given will cause the current line being entered (if any) to be discarded, and you are returned to that command processor. The second way is to type two CR's in a row. When a line is entered with no data, it sets a flag, and if another line is entered with no data, then the line is discarded and you are returned to command mode.

Anytime a control C is typed the current command is terminated and you are returned to command mode no matter where you are. Anytime a control S is received from the line, BWMS II will stop sending data. Any other character received will start the data being sent again.

While entering data or commands, the line can be edited by typing a control H (BS) to backup (a BS SP BS is sent to erase the character on your terminal). If the pointer is at the beginning of the line a control G will be output for each BS received, and no BS SP BS will be echoed. A delete character received will cause the previous character to be removed from the line, and the character being removed will be displayed. A maximum of 79 characters can be entered in a line. Any characters that exceed the 79 character miximum will be discarded, and a control G (bell) will be echoed for each character.

While in enter mode, BWMS II will echo each character as it receives and processes it. When a carriage return is received, the data will be saved to disk, and the carriage return (optionally followed by a line feed if LF Y is set) will be echoed when BWMS II is ready to receive the next line. You can use the EPrompt command to specify your own prompt character. Since most systems store data as a line terminated with a carriage return followed by a line feed, BWMS II discards any line feed that immediately follows a carriage return (first position in the new line) while in enter mode.

Null characters are always discarded when they are received. As such, all characters received can be entered into the data base except control C, null, and delete. In addition, no more than two blank lines in a row are allowed, and a line feed will be discarded if it is the first character in the line. Nulls are filtered at the low level and never passed on to the system, thus they can be used for delays if needed.

If no activity occurs (as determined by no data being sent) for 15 minutes, the system will automatically perform the BYE command. The length of time allowed on-line is limited. A message indicating that an automatic logoff will occur is displayed five minutes prior to logout. At one minute prior to the automatic logoff a message indicating such will appear. A minute later the automatic logoff (BYe) will happen. You can see how much time you have remaining by using the TIme command. For more information see "HELP CMD".



HELP NAME (Applying for a user name/number)

After answering the call, the system will log you in as user zero. This is called the "null user". While some access is currently allowed at the null user level, it is restricted use. The exact restrictions may change as time and circumstances dictate. To gain access to more functions and a freer use of the system, you may apply for a user number through the use of the "APPLY" command.

When you apply, you will be given a number between 20 and 998. The system will pick the number from a pool of available user numbers. The number is chosen by looking for a free user number. Once a free number has been found, you will be asked for your name and where you are calling from.

A note about names: BWMS II stores user names and passwords in a special protected user file. In order to provide the maximum flexibility and protection for your name and password, the maximum length of each individual portion is adjustable. The maximum length of the combination of your first name, last name, where you are calling from, and password cannot exceed 35 characters. Your name must consist of only letters and numbers, but your password may contain any typable character (including spaces).

Although your full name can be up to 22 characters long, only the first 16 characters are significant. A space will always be inserted between your first and last name when it is displayed in the user list.

If after you make your application you find you wish to change your password just reapply at any time after logging on under your old password. If you forget your password, just apply for a new user number and let one of the operators know that your old user number is invalid so that it can be freed up for reuse. Inactive users will be periodically purged from the system based on need. (If we need the space and you haven't been active for over a year you will probably be purged from the system.)

Once your application is complete, you may log in with your new user number at the command prompt with the ON # command the next time you call in (see HELP ON).

Applications are limited to one per call. User logins are also limited to one per call. For more information see "HELP AP", or for general information on the system "HELP GEN".

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HER --- HER[e] [S] [-][###] (here command)

This command works exactly like the "LiNe" command, if no parmeter is given, it shows the current line. If a positive number is given, that line is made current and is displayed. If a negative number is given that many lines up from the current line is made current and displayed.

If the "S" session option is given, then the numbers refer to sessions rather than lines. If a session number is referred to, the current line will become the first line of the indicated session. The command is given in the form of "HERE", "HERE 22", "HERE -10", or "HERE S 2".

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KI --- KI[ll] [-][###] [-][###] (kill line(s))

Kills the specified line or lines. If no number is given, the current line is assumed. If a positive number is given, that line becomes current, and is killed. If a negative number is given, the line up that many lines up from the current line is made current and killed. If a second number is given then all the lines starting from (and including) the first one specified down to (and including) the last one specified are killed. If the second number is negative, it is assumed to be that many lines above the current line.

When only a single line is to be killed, the line will be displayed first and a prompt asking if you really want to kill the line will be presented. If a multiple line kill is requested, you will be prompted in the form of "KILL ### > ### ?" where the killing of the line range provided is given. An attempt to kill outside your own session is not allowed and will cause an error message to be given. is any non-numeric character or word or a single space. Thus the command "KILL FROM LINE 100 TO LINE 110 PLEASE" is an acceptable form of the command. Unlike DElete, once a line is killed it is not recoverable. (See HELP DElete)

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LF --- LF [Y/N] (send line feeds)

Must have a parameter of Y or N for "Yes" or "No", or T or F for "True" or "False". If a N or F is given, then all CR/LF sequences will be replaced as CR only. If a Y or T is given, then all carriage returns will be followed with a line feed. Default at the start of the call is "Y". The LF value will be set to your last setting when you log in (see SET command). The command is given in the form "LF Y" or "LF N".

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LN --- LN [S] [-][###] (go to line)
LIN --- LIN[e] [S] [-][###] (go to line)
TO --- TO[p] [S] [-][###] (go to line)
# --- [-]# (go to line)

Goes to the line number specified on the currently selected disk, makes it the current line, and displays the line. If no parameter or "0" is given, the current line is displayed. If a negative number is given, then the new current line becomes that many lines above the current line. Any data after the command is ignored, thus "LINe 10 please" will go to line 10 and display it.

If the "S" session option is provided, then the number refers to sessions rather than lines. When a session number is referred to, the current line will become the first line of the indicated session. The command is given in the form of "LN 10", or "LN -10", or "LN 2 S", or "LN -2 S".


The command TO or TOP goes to the line number specified on the currently selected disk, makes it the current line, and prints the line. If no parameter or zero is given, then line 1 (top) is assumed. If a negative number is given, the current line becomes that many lines up from the current line position. Any data following the command on the line is ignored, thus "TO 10 please" will go to line ten. "TOP" would get translated to "TO 1".

If the "S" session option is given with the TO command, then sesison numbers are referrd to rather than line numbers. When a session number is referred to, the current line becomes the first line of the indicated session. The command is given in the form of "TOP", or "TO 10", or "TO S 2", or "Please go to line 10".


If a number is given by itself as a command, the specified line will become the current line and will be displayed. If a negative number is given, the current line will become the line that is that many lines up from the current line. The command is given in the form "20" or "-20".

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LI --- LI[st] [S] [-][###] [-][###] (list lines)
REA --- REA[d] [S] [-][###] [-][###] (list lines)

Prints lines starting at the line specified. If none is specified, then all lines are printed starting from the top of the disk (line 1). If a second number is provided, then printing will be in the range between the first and second numbers. is any non-numeric character or word or a single space. If a negative number is provided, then it is assumed to reference the line that is that many lines previous to the current line.

The READ command is exactly the same as the LIST command.

If while printing a control C is received, the printing is terminated and the current line become the line that was being printed. Any data that follows the command is ignored, thus "LIst 10 please" will start printing from line ten.

If the "S" session option is provided, then the number refers to sessions rather than lines. Session printing begins with the first line of the indicated session. If the first number provided is greater than the second number, printing will occur backwards.

The command is given in the form "LIST", or "LI 2", or "LI 10, 20", or "PLEASE LIST ALL SESSIONS FROM 2 THROUGH 10".

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LO --- LO[st] (no parameters) (print lost message)

Displays "LOst" message.

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NP --- NP[rompt] [Y/N] (enable enter mode number prompt)

Must have a parameter of Y or N for "Yes" or "No", or T or F for "True" or "False". If a Y is given, then line numbers will be printed while in enter mode. If a N is given, then the line numbers will not be printed. Default at the beginning of the call is NP Y. When you log in NP will be set to your last setting (see SET command). The command is given in the form of "NP Y" or "NP N".

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NU --- NU [Y/N] (turn line numbers on or off)

Must have a parameter of Y or N for "Yes" or "No", or T or F for "True" or "False". If a Y is given, then line numbers will be printed while listing messages. If a N is given, then the line numbers will not be printed. Default at the beginning of the call is NU Y. When you log in NU will be set to your last setting (see SET command). The command is given in the form of "NU Y" or "NU N".

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ON --- ON [###] (user login)
LOGON --- LOGON [###] (user login)
Password: [xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx]

The ON command turns on the system. If no parameter is given, then drive DA is selected and the message "FILE ON" is printed. This causes the file information for DA to be loaded into memory ready for use. If a command that requires the disk information to be in memory is given before the ON command, then the ON command will be performed automatically and you will be logged in as user #0.

If a number is given after the ON command, then it is assumed to be a user number, and the user login request is performed. If the number exists, then the password will be asked for with the prompt "Password: ". The password given is checked against the password that is valid for that user number. If the password given is incorrect, then login is denied. Once login has been achieved, the system will be set to your last control setting, and the current line will be set to the last line on drive DA when you last called. If the disk has been changed since you last called, then the current line will be set to line one.

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PR --- PR[int] [S] [-][###] [-][###] (print lines)

Prints out the number of lines specified. If none is specified, all lines are printed starting with the line following the current line. If the number given is negative, printing will be in reverse (successive lower lines). Printing always starts with the line following the current line (for negative printing, the previous line). If two numbers are given, then the lines in that range are printed. The current line pointer is left at the last line that is printed.

If while printing a control C is received, printing will be aborted, and the current line will become the line being printed when the control C was received. Any data following the command on the line is ignored, thus "PRint 10 more lines please" will print the next ten lines.

If the "S" session option is provided, the session number specified is printed. If the number given is negative, then the session that many sessions previous from the current session is printed instead. If no session number is given, then the current session is printed starting with the first line of the session. The line pointer is left at the last line of the session that was printed. The command is given in the form "PRINT", or "PR 10", or "PR -5", or "PR S 3", or "PR 10, 20", or "PR Sessions 5 to 7", or "print session -2".

When you log on the system with your user number, the system will place you at the end of the last message that was on the system the last time you were on. This holds true no matter which room you move to. Thus to see only the new messages, just use the PRINT command immediately after entering each room.

Alternately, you can see the new messages in all the rooms by using the PRINT ALL command, or the ALL command.

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RE --- RE[place] [-][###] (replace line)

Goes to the specified line on the disk and replaces it with a new line to be entered. When the command is given, the line is displayed and a prompt is printed asking if you really want to replace the line.

If no number or zero is given, then the current line is replaced. If a negative number is given, then the line that is that many lines up from the current line is prompted for replacement.

Any data following the command on the line is ignored, thus "REplace 10 please" will go to line ten and do a replace. Once a line has been replaced it cannot be unreplaced. If while entering the new line the input is aborted (control C), the old line will be left alone. You can only replace lines within your session.

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TAR --- TAR[get] (simple minded game)

You can play a very simple-minded game called Target by entering the command TARget. If you have ANSI set to Y, or COlour set to Y the ANSI cursor control will be used. If both are off then ADM3A cursor control sequences will be used. Use ^C to exit the game.



WUMP --- WUMP[us] (begin a Wumpus game - show status)
SHOO --- SHOO[t] ### (try to shoot the Wumpus)

You can play the Wumpus game at any time by entering the command "WUMPUS" at the command prompt. At anytime during the game you can see your current status by entering the "WUMPUS" command as well. When the game starts you will be shown your starting position. You can move to a new location by entering the number of the room you wish to go to. To try to shoot the Wumpus enter the command "SHOOT ###" (where ### indicates the room number you wish to shoot to). Remember, if you don't hit the Wumpus he will move. If he is next to your room, he may move into your room and eat you. If you move into his room he will also eat you. If you move into a room that has a bottomless pit you will fall in it and die. There are bats in these caves, so beware!

If you shoot an arrow in a direction that is not one of the adjacent rooms it will go wild. Who knows where it will end up. It may hit you, or if you are real lucky, maybe the Wumpus. The game continues until you win or lose.

You can still use the regular commands while the game is operational, the only exception is that entering a number by itself will not take you to that line while the Wumpus game is active it will instead be assumed to be a command to move to a new room in the Wumpus cave.

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XT --- XT[est] [###] (test pattern)
TE --- TE[st] [###] (test pattern)

Displays a test pattern. If no parameter is given, a margin of 76 is assumed. Otherwise the given margin is used. If anything other than a positive number is given it is ignored and a margin of 76 is assumed.

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TI --- TI[me] (no parameters) (show current time info)
ST --- ST[ats] [x] (show usage statistics)

The Time command shows current system time, time on line, and time remaining.



The STats command shows a minute by minute daily average of the system usage. The table is shown with one line per hour in six groupings of ten minutes each on the line. When a '0' appears in a minute position, it means that the system has not been used at that time for over nine days. If a '1' appears, it means that the system was used at that time within the last 24 hours. A '9' appearing in a minute position means that the system has been consecutively used at that time for the past nine days.

Each minute position is incremented once per day when used, and decremented once per day when not used. The minimum number possible is 0, and the maximum number possible is 9.

If you use the eXtend option with the command, then a hour/day usage map will be displayed instead. The extended map is displayed in a similar format to the standard map except that it has a resolution of hours and days rather than minutes and hours.

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UN --- UN[delete] [-][###] [-][###] (undelete line(s))

Undeletes the specified line or lines. If a second number is given all the lines starting from (and including) the first one specified down to (and including) the last one specified are undeleted. If the number given is negative, it is assumed to refer to the line that is that many lines previous from the current line. The current line will be set to the last line that was undeleted.

You are not allowed to undelete outside your own session. An attempt to undelete outside your own session will cause an error message. is any non-numeric character or word or a single space. Lines are deleted with the DElete command. The command is given in the form "UN", or "UN 20", or "UN 10 to 20", or "UNdelete -1", or "Please Undelete lines 4 through 21".

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UP --- UP [S] [-][###] (go up ### lines)

Goes up the number of lines specified on the currently selected disk from the current line, makes it the current line, and displays it. If no parameter or zero is given, then line one is assumed. If a negative number is given, the command is reversed, and it goes down instead of up.

If the "S" session option is given, the number refers to sessions rather than line numbers. When a session number is referred to, the current line becomes the first line of the session.

Any data given after the command on the line is ignored. Thus "UP 10 more" will go up ten lines. The command "UP a line" would get translated to "UP 1".

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US --- US[er] [###] [###] (show user information)

If no number is given, a list of all current users on the system is displayed. If a number is provided, then that specific user will be displayed. If two numbers are given, the users within that range will be displayed. If a name or a part of a name is given then a list of all users by that name or that contain the part of the name will be displayed.

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BackWater II Manual -- Commands available to assigned (logon) users



CA --- CA[ll] (no parameters) (print call log)
LOG --- LOG (no parameters) (print call log)

Shows current call number and message number. Also shows the length of time for this call, and time left. A list of the last 64 callers is then displayed.

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EX --- EX[it] (no parameters) (exit BWMS)

This command is used to exit the BWMS message system. It was intended to allow expansion to other uses for the system, and was used during the transition from BWMS to BWMS II to access the new system during development. Without disrupting normal operation.

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LEV --- LEV[el] [#] (change access level)
Password: [xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx]

Allows the access level to be changed. If no number is given, access level zero is assumed. If a number is given, then the access level will be changed. When the access level is changed, you will be asked to enter your password again with the "Password:" prompt. When you log in, your highest level of access is automatically selected for you.

When you use the enter command, your access level will be reverted to level zero. This is to protect previous entries from being destroyed by an upload failure.

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MAI --- MAI[l] (read private mail)

The MAIL command will list all current mail you have waiting. When you log off the system, the mail will be automatically deleted to make room for new mail. If you have private mail waiting, you will be notified when you logon to the system. To send private mail see the PRIVate command.

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PRIV --- PRIV[ate] ### (enter a private message)
DONE --- DONE (send the message)
SE ---SE[nd] (send the message)

The PRIVATE command allows you to send private mail to another user. You must privide a user number, and you must be logged onto the system with your own user number to send private mail. This allows the mail handler to properly handle the mail. The user must be a valid user. You will automatically be placed in the enter mode by the PRIVATE command. You can exit the Edit mode at any time and re-enter it later if you wish. If you wish to look at a message in another room you can select the alternate room and come back to the mail room to finish your message later. The Mail room in room 3, so just select "ROOM 3", or DC to get back to the mail room. You can then use the ENter command to continue entering your message. When you are done use the command DONE or SEND to send the message. If you forget to send the message, it will automatically be sent when you hangup. See the MAIL command on how to read a private message.

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ROOM --- ROOM (room name) (select a room)
BLU --- BLU[e] (no parameters) (select blue room)
LAD --- LAD[ies] (no parameters) (select ladies room)
MALL --- MALL (no parameters) (select mall room)
MEN --- MEN[s] (no parameters) (select mens room)
WOM --- WOM[ems] (no parameters) (select ladies room)

With the ROOM command you can move between the rooms by entering the name of the room you wish to go to. Rooms are identified by the available room names displayed when you log on to the system with your user number. The command line prompt will be preceeded by the name of the room you are currently in. To see the list of available rooms, use the ROOM command without a name. You do not need to preceed the room name with the ROOM command to go to a room.

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SET --- SET (no parameters) (set user flags)

The SET command causes the current Y/N settings and custom enter prompt to be saved to your user file. When the SET command is given, the next time you call the settings that were in effect when you entered the SET command will be selected when you log on to the system.

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BackWater II Manual -- Commands available to level 4 users



CA --- CAl[l] [###] (print call log or find call # session)
LOG --- LOG [###] (print call log or find call # session)

If a number is not provided, shows current call number and mes sage number, the length of time for this call, and time left. A list of the last 64 callers is then displayed.

If the optional number is provided, searches for the session produced during that call number on the current disk. If the session is not found, then the error message "NOT FOUND" is displayed. When the first line of the call session is reached it is made current, and then displayed.

Note that the call number referred to is the real call number, and not the session number. Session numbers are counted sequentially starting from the first session on the disk and always start with session one as the first session on the disk. Call numbers are sequentially counted from the first call to BWMS II and are not related to disk session numbers. The form of the command is "CALL", or "CALL 1234", or "LOG 2345".

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DE --- DE[lete] [-][###] [del] [-][###] (delete line(s))

A deleted line is shown with a "@" following the line number when line numbers are on. In addition, deleted lines will be shown in inverse video when ANSI is on (Y). If Color is on, deleted lines will be shown in red.

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EXEC --- EXEC[utive] (no parameters) (select executive room)

This command is used to allow remote sysops to leave meassages to each other relating to system maintance.

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HN --- HN [Y/N] (Show Header Names)

When set to N user names will not be displayed in the session headers. When set to Y, the session header names will be displayed. This is useful to speed up listings since the user file doesn't have to be searched when the session header is to be displayed.

If a negative is given, then a list of all Twited users is displayed. A user is "twited" automatically if they use the "F" word, or by the determination of the sysop that they are overly abusing the system or other users. Only the sysop can untwit a user (of course a user can always activate another user name).

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MES --- MeS[sage] [-][###] (goto message session number)
MS --- MeS[sage] [-][###] (goto message session number)

Searches for the session that was entered during the specified message number on the current disk. If the sesison is not found, the error message "NOT FOUND" will be displayed. If no message number is given, then goes to the top of the current session. When the first line of the session is reached and made current, it is displayed.

Note that the message number referred to is the real message number, and not the session number. Session numbers are counted sequentially starting from the first session on the disk and always start with session one as the first session on the disk. Message numbers are sequentially counted from the first message that was entered on BWMS II and are not related to disk session numbers. The form of the command is "MSG", or "MES 1234", or "MSG 2345".

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SE --- SE[ssion] [-][###] (goto session)

This command goes to the specified session, makes the first line of the session current and displays it. If no session number is given, then the first line of the current session will be made the current line. If the number given is negative, then the session selected will be the session that many sessions up from the current session. The command is given in the form of "SE", or "SE 5", or "SE -2".

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XP --- XP[rotect] [-][###] [-][###] (protect lines)
PRO --- PRO[tect] [-][###] [-][###] (protect lines)

Write protects current line if no parameter given. Goes to indicated line and protects it if a number is given. If a range is given, then protects all lines in the range. If the number given is negative, then it is assumed that the number is that many lines up from current line.

This protects from accidental erasure of important messages. An attempt to delete, change, or otherwise modify a protected line will cause the message "LINE IS PROTECTED" to be printed and the command will be aborted. Protected lines show a "$" in the space position following the line number whenever line numbers are on. In addition, when ANSI is on (Y), the line will be highlighted (bold). If color is on, the line will be shown in magenta. Use the "XU" command to unprotect lines.

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XU --- XU[nprotect] [-][###] [-] [###] (unprotect lines)
UN --- UN[protect] [-][###] [-] [###] (unprotect lines)

Unprotects current line if no parmeter given. Goes to indicated line and unprotects it if a number is given. If a range is given, then unprotects all lines in the range. If the number given is negative, it is assumed that the number is that many lines up from current line. Protected lines show a "$" in the space position following the line numbers whenever line numbers are on. In addition, when ANSI is on (Y), the line will be highlighted (bold). If color is on, protected lines are displayed in magenta. Use the "XP" command to protect lines.

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BackWater II Manual -- Commands available to the super user



AR --- AR[chive] (no parameters) (archive disk)

The Archive command transfers the currently selected disk to be written to an archive file. This command is only available from the console.

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LOC --- LOC[al] (no parameters) (local operation)

The Local command prevents the system from responding to the modem so that local mainatnce can be done undistrubed. The message "System unavailable" is sent to anyone who tries to call in.

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MA --- MA[ximum] (no parameters) (set timeout to maximum)

The MAximum command sets the system timeout to the maximum possible. This prevents the system from timing out while performing local maintance.

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SY --- SY[stem] (no parameters) (return to DOS)

The SYstem command causes the program to be immediately terminated. WARNING: the link data is not saved, nor is the call log updated. Any entry made will *NOT* be saved. Use the BYE command first if you have done an entry or it will all be lost! This command is only available from the console.

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TR --- TR[uncate] [###] (truncate disk)

This command truncates all lines below the current line if no number is given. If a number is given, that line is made current and trancation occurs below that line. Negative numbers are not allowed.

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US --- US[er] -1/-2 -- Show Twits/New users (show user information)

This command expansion for the User command allows the super user to review those users who are new (unassigned), or who are Twited out. If the user number given is -1, a list of the twits are shown. If the user number given is -2, a list of the new users are shown. The system automatically twits a user if they use foul language. A twited user only has access at the lowest level.

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ZAP --- ZAP [###] (zap/edit user)

This command is used to allow the local editing of the selected user parameters. For security reasons, this command is only available locally to the super user.

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BackWater II Manual -- Non-functioning commands




IN --- IN[sert] [-][###] (insert mode)

Note: The insert command never worked. It required a bunch of work to revise the file format to make it work, and no one (me) found the the time to do it.


Selects insert mode. If a number is not provided, ENter mode is selected and data is entered starting at the line below the current line. If a number is provided, that line will be made the current line before the insert mode is entered. If the number given is past the last line on the disk, or the current line is the last line on the disk, then normal enter mode will be selected.

The Insert mode is exited by typing a control C. If the control C is entered while a line is being typed (no CR yet) that line will not be saved. An alternate form of exit from the insert mode is to send two consecutive carriage returns. You are not allowed in insert lines outside your own session.

Note that any entry that occurs means that the last line of the disk is the last line of your session, and the first line you entered is the first line of your entry. Your session is terminated and the user file updated when you use the "BYe" command. You can use the REplace or CHange commands to edit your entry. The form of the command is "IN", or "IN 10".

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MOV --- MOV[e] [-][###] (move lines)

Note: The move command never worked. It required a bunch of work to revise the file format to make it work, and no one (me) found the the time to do it.

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BackWater II Manual -- Eggs



EAST - EAST (no parameters) (show east message)
WEST - WEST (no parameters) (show west message)
NORT - NORT[h] (no parameters) (show north message)
SOUT - SOUT[h] (no parameters) (show south message)
XYZZ - XYZZ[y] (no parameters) (show xyzzy message)

These commands don't do anything other than to show a short message that anyone who has played Big Cave Adventure will be familar with.

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