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A new version of Protext surges into the already-heaving word processor arena; we find out if it's worth upgrading to the latest version of this popular program
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For a long time now, Protext has been regarded as the best option if you're looking for a powerful word processor which supports your printer's built-in fonts. While other programs make full use of GEM menus and alternative font systems, its no-nonsense display, wealth of features and speed make it the first choice of serious text crunchers.
The new version comes supplied on four disks, with manuals—User and Reference. It occupies nearly 3MBytes of disk space, so a hard drive is highly recommended. Protext runs from floppies, but with the larger dictionary and thesaurus files weighing in at about 400k each, there's loads of disk swapping to be done. You have
to configure Protext for your own system with a separate program where you specify the various options.
Protext has been criticized for its non-GEM interface and often confusing command system. A full command line system is available with every command explained in the manual, but functions can easily be accessed via a menu if you prefer.
Version 6 is even simpler, using more dialog boxes, giving it the friendliness of GEM without sacrificing speed. The drop-down menus have keyboard shortcuts too, but this can be a bit confusing, since some use the familiar key combinations while others adopt the style seen in many German programs now, with the keypress highlighted in the menu by the underscore character. Once you've got used to the shortcuts you can edit your text swiftly, resorting to the mouse for the odd feature or two.
• Dictionary editor • Graphic import • Improved interactive help system • Macro editor • PostScript support with the supplied driver • Scalable font support, if your printer has them • Style tags to enable transfer of layouts between documents • User-definable glossary for commonly used abbreviations
Most of the upgraded features fall into two categories — improving the friendliness of the program and enhancing its use to the pro or semi-pro writer.
The addition of style tags means you can create and save sets of formatting details to use regularly. If you produce your own magazines or newsletters with a DTP program, you can format each article you write with your house style without having to muck around with the document settings every time — a real time saver. Another bonus if you often use the same expression again and again is the Glossary. The word count function is vastly improved over previous versions. Protext now gives you document analysis as well as a straight count; you can list all words used either alphabetically or by frequency, and a full summary which even gives you the average length of your words and sentences.
"The new editing functions and document analysis features are very helpful for writers"
Previous versions of Protext have lacked one thing — graphics handling. While not out to compete with document processors, version 6 enables you to include images on your page, under certain restrictions. Protext doesn't display the image on-screen, so you don't get to see it until you print the document — a line is inserted into your text which tells Protext the filename and resolution of the picture. You aren't likely to use it in place of DTP software, but it's useful for letterheads and the like without having to print them separately. Graphic formats handled are GIF and PCX as used on the PC, IFF from the Amiga, and the usual IMG — but not the high-res Degas PI3.
Quality Protext's printout depends on your printer, since it uses no fonts itself, relying instead on those built into your printer. The obvious advantage is speed. Graphic font word processors often take ages to print single pages, but using the hardware fonts gives swift results. Really, you need to decide whether your printer fonts are up to it — with a standard 9-pin dot matrix, you won't be realizing Protext's full potential.
So is it worth upgrading from an earlier version? If you have v5 or earlier, then the answer is yes. The greatly improved dictionary and Collins' thesaurus are light years ahead of earlier ones, and the program is much friendlier to use. On the other hand, if you're currently using v5.5, the choice is a little more difficult.
If you take your writing seriously and want to use your ST for more than tapping out the odd letter, the answer is still yes. The new editing functions and document analysis features are very helpful for writers, and make the cheap upgrade cost worthwhile. A definite winner.
FRANK CHARLTON
Highs: • Fast and powerful • Excellent dictionary and thesaurus