CoSession for DOS Host User Guide

Introduction

We've provided a copy of CoSession Host, a high- performance,
remote control program for PCs.  This software, along with a
modem, lets service and support personnel run software from a
remote location, as if their PC and yours are one and the same.

What is CoSession

CoSession software provides PC "remote control".  That is, it
lets a user at one PC take control of a second PC, as if the user
were sitting at the second PC, typing on its keyboard and viewing
its screen.  This gives the "remote control" user the ability to
run programs, access data, print reports, or simply observe the
operations of another computer user.

To use "remote control" capabilities, the appropriate CoSession
software must be loaded on both PCs, and a communication link
must be established between the two PCs.

Therefore, it doesn't matter if the second PC is just across the
room or all the way across the country. When the "remote control"
PC user presses a key on their keyboard, the "controlled" PC
responds as if the key had been pressed on its own keyboard (or a
mouse can be used to "remotely control" mouse-capable programs.)
Furthermore, whatever the "controlled" PC displays also appears
on the screen of the "remote control" PC.

Besides basic "remote control," CoSession provides numerous
advanced capabilities, including functions to:

o   Transfer files between PCs (including unattended and
background transfers), using highly efficient data compression
and error correction methods

o   Redirect printing from the "controlled" PC's printer to the
"remote control" PC's printer

o   Capture and replay remote control screens or entire sessions

Terms and Concepts

In order to establish a remote control session, CoSession
software must be loaded on both computers. Your PC is called the
Host.  The Host is the computer that runs the applications
software.

The other PC, at the location of the support technician, is
called the Remote PC.  Typically, your Host PC will call into the
Remote PC when you need support.  This document focuses on the
Host installation and operation for both Windows and DOS
operation.

To simplify the discussions and procedures in this book, it is
important that you understand the few concepts and standard terms
described briefly in this section.

TSR and Background Operation

Both the Host and Remote programs are TSR (Terminate and Stay
Resident) programs.  (TSR programs are also sometimes called
"memory-resident" or "pop-up" programs.)

This means, for instance, that when you execute the Host program,
it displays a banner screen, loads a portion of itself into your
PC's memory, and then returns you to the DOS prompt.  The loaded
program portion "stays resident" in memory after you return to
DOS, where it remains until you "re-boot" your PC or "unload" it
(as described later in this manual).

Before You Begin

You need to know which communications port your modem uses.  This
port is usually COM1 or COM2.  You should also know the brand
name, model, and serial port speed (baud rate) for your modem.

Baud Rate Note: (AKA "bps")  Modems use one baud rate between the
modem and the PC serial port (the DTE or serial port speed), but
can provide different speeds for communication between modems.
Refer to your modem manual for the recommended Serial Port Speed
setting for your modem -- the higher the better.  Some
recommendations are:

Modem Speed     Serial Port Speed
-----------     -----------------
2400                2400-9600
4800                9600
9600                19,200
14,400              19,200-38,400
28,800              38,400

Performance

Several products have been tested with CoSession and several
memory and system configurations.  A few key features to be aware
of are discussed here.

Memory Requirements

The CoSession Host TSR (Terminate and Stay Resident) program must
be loaded first -- before you can make a connection.  CoSession
occupies 77KB of RAM when it is running.

To minimize the free base-memory requirement for the Host TSR, we
recommend that, if you have extended memory, you specify that an
extended memory manager (i.e., HIMEM.SYS and EMM386.SYS) be
loaded in your CONFIG.SYS file.  This allows CoSession to load as
much of itself as possible into Upper Memory and to leave more
base memory free for running other products.

Refer to your other software product documentation for specific
details about its memory requirements.

COM Port Testing

If you have any questions or doubts about your COM (serial) port
configuration or its IRQ settings, and wish to use CoSession
Host, we recommend that you test your COM ports before loading
the HOST program, and that you do not attempt to test them while
the HOST is loaded or connected on-line.

If the COM port tests are successful, HOST should work properly,
once configured, and you may then test the rest of your hardware
locally or by remote control. Customized or unknown COM port
settings can prevent the operation of either the Host or the COM
port tests.

System Requirements and Recommendations

- IBM PC, XT, AT, PS/2 or compatible
- DOS Version 3.1 or higher
- Approximately 300KB of available hard disk space
- 2400 Baud or faster modem
- Approx. 512K of memory (enough memory to run your applications
after booting DOS and loading CoSession Host which requires 5K to
77K of memory).

Installation

This installation section takes you through the steps for copying
CoSession files to the appropriate location on your disk drive,
configuring the product for dial-in and dial-out capabilities,
and the selecting from available security options. Installing
CoSession

1. Insert the diskette containing the CoSession Host
communication software in your floppy disk drive. Assuming the
disk is in drive A:, at the DOS prompt type:

A: INSTALL [ENTER]

2. Choose option 1, Install the HOST CoSession files. Follow the
on-screen instructions to specify where to install the files. The
default directory is HOST.

3. Specify Yes, when prompted to alter settings for COM port,
etc.

4. The installation process prompts you to specify the COM port,
modem type, and speed for your system. If you do not do so at the
time of installation, you will have to run the Phone Book program
at a later time to establish configuration and incoming call
access.

5. When asked if you want to update all of the entries in the
Phone Book that already exists, answer Yes.

This will place your correct configuration in the phone book, in
place of the default configuration values in the pre-configured
Phone Book. Using CoSession Host CoSession offers a wide range of
features that provide flexibility, power, and ease of use.  As
you use CoSession, you will find that you use some features often
and others seldom.

This section provides a quick overview of nearly all of the types
of tasks you can perform with CoSession Host.

The Importance of the Phone Book

The heart of CoSession is the Phone Book. Each Phone Book Entry
contains all the information CoSession needs to connect with
another system.  It indicates the phone number to be used to make
a call, and COM Port information such as baud rate, port number,
and modem type.  A Phone Book Entry can also optionally activate
security features such as password checks and dial back.

Overview of a Typical Remote Control Session

Before running the Host software for the first time, it is useful
to review a typical remote control session. You can then know
what to expect during your first actual session.

Summary of Remote Control Connection Steps

Typical procedures for establishing a remote control connection
can be summarized as follows (the rest of this chapter includes
details on each step):

1.  Decide which user (Host or Remote) will initiate the call and
which will answer.  Although either user can initiate the call,
in most cases, it is the Remote user who initiates the call and
the Host user who answers.  For your first few sessions, you
might find it easier to answer the call.

2. Identify a Phone Book entry that is appropriate for the
connection you will make (or, if necessary, create one).
Specifically, the Phone entry must have the following defined (as
a minimum):

    The correct type for the modem (or Direct Connect cable), and
the correct COM Port and Baud rate

    If you will be initiating the call, the Phone Number of the
    other PC

Note: If you are answering, you may find that the DEFAULT Phone
Book entry is often appropriate.

3.  The PC user who decided to answer the call loads the
CoSession software (Host or Remote) and goes into Wait for Call
mode.

4.  The PC user who decided to make the call loads the CoSession
software (Host or Remote) and uses the CoSession Call function to
initiate the call.

5. Unless there is a problem, the Remote PC software now
establishes a remote control connection with your PC.

The Remote Takes Control

Once the connection is established, the Remote PC screen looks
like your PC's screen.  The Remote user can then run and control
applications on your PC using their keyboard (and mouse, if
appropriate).  As they do this, you will see the results on your
screen.  This may look a bit peculiar at first, as your PC seems
to move its own cursor, type its own characters, etc. However,
this provides an excellent means for a Remote user to "show" you
the operation of a particular application.

In fact, you and the Remote user are actually sharing control of
your PC.  That is, you can interact with your PC just as if the
Remote user was not connected. For example, the Remote user can
watch on their PC's screen while you control the application.
This can be very useful for training or support. As you can see,
it is just as if the Remote user were sitting with you in your
office, working together on your PC.

About Mouse Control

By default, only the Remote user has mouse control during a
Remote Control connection.  However, the remote user can give you
mouse control as well (i.e. shared mouse control) by pressing
[CTRL]+[ALT]+[U].  Be sure that the Remote user knows if you need
to share mouse control during a session.

File Transfers

A connected Remote user can initiate "background" file transfers.
Thus, they can copy files to or from your PC while you continue
working on other applications. For example, if you need some
updated files, you can simply load the Host software in Wait for
Call mode and then continue with your work.  When the Remote user
is ready, they can call your PC, copy the needed files, and then
disconnect, all without disturbing your use of your PC - you just
keep right on working as usual. You can initiate file transfers
(in the "foreground," not the background) using the COCOPY
command-line file transfer utility.  COCOPY is especially useful
in batch files used for unattended or automated operations.

Using Other Programs Included in the Host Software

Besides the HOST communication program, the Host software also
includes some utility programs for such things as selecting
program options and managing Phone Books.  These programs are
listed below:

PHONE:  Add, change, delete, or view Phone Book Entries.

OPTIONS:  Change or view configuration settings that affect
Remote Control mode operations.

PRINTO:  Change or view settings that control the Remote user's
ability to redirect printing from your PC applications to the
Remote user's printer.

COCOPY:  Allows the Remote PC to do command-line file transfers
between Host PC and connected Remote PC.

SUNLOAD:  Remove Host software from memory. This chapter
summarizes procedures for each of these. Reference chapters later
in this manual provide more detailed discussions.

Special Situations

A few situations require changing Option settings before you
continue. These are described below.

CGA Monitor

If you have an older CGA video card, you may see "snow" on your
screen when using CoSession.  To eliminate the "snow" change the
Eliminate Screen Snow Option setting to YES.

Slow Screen Updates or Scrolling Problems on Remote PC - ANSI.SYS

If a Remote user notices that screen updates are slow and
scrolling causes screen redraws, then your PC (the Host) is
probably using the device driver ANSI.SYS (check the CONFIG.SYS
file if you are unsure), but has Host Options set incorrectly.
If your PC is using ANSI.SYS and is using DOS 4.1 or earlier,
then the Special Console Driver Option on your PC should be set
to YES or AUTO.   Please refer to the Options section for
information on accessing options.

Remote Has No Keyboard Control

Some emulation products (like IRMA and the AST5250) and other
applications take direct control of the keyboard BIOS routine on
your PC.  If your Host Options are set incorrectly, this causes
Remote user keystrokes to be ignored when they are trying to
remotely run the software on your PC.  To let the Remote user run
such applications remotely, the Special Keyboard Handling Option
must be set to YES on your PC.  Please refer to the Options
section for information on accessing options.

Graphics Mode Screen Restrictions

You cannot use Hot Keys or the Chat Window if the Host PC
application is currently running in graphics (vs. text) mode.


Starting CoSession Host

Phone Book Considerations

Remember that you can't connect with a Remote PC unless you have
an appropriate Phone Book entry.  Therefore, you must have
created such an entry before making a connection.  For that
reason, we next explain how to add Phone Book entries.

Other Phone Book Possibilities

The Phone Book menu also offers the following choices:

Change:  modify or view an existing Phone Entry

Delete:  remove a Phone Entry

Sort:  sort Phone Book Entries into alphabetical order; this is
required to use the Speed Search feature


The Basic Command Line

The basic HOST command works for many situations, but has the
following restriction:

o The Host will be answering the call from the Remote user

o The settings in your DEFAULT Phone Book entry are appropriate
for the connection being made

o A Remote user can not run applications on your PC that are
using CGA graphics mode; however, they can run applications that
are using text mode or EGA, VGA, or Hercules graphics mode
(assuming the Remote user's PC has a compatible display adapter
and monitor, as discussed later)

If your situation doesn't fit within these limits, then you must
use one or more command line options as described in the
"Command Line Options" topic.

To load CoSession Host into memory (answer option only):

1.  From the DOS prompt, change to the drive and directory where
you installed the Host software. For example, if your Host
directory is C:\HOST, at the DOS prompt, enter the following:

	C:  [ENTER]
	CD  \HOST [ENTER]

2.  To load the Host software into your PC's memory in Wait for
Call mode (using the DEFAULT Phone Book entry), enter:

	HOST [ENTER]

Note:   This assumes that you have not changed the Option
Auto-Answer On Loading from its default setting of Yes.

    The program displays a startup message.  After this message
appears, the DOS prompt will re-appear.  If you need to, you can
now run other applications. CoSession will answer the incoming
call in "background."


Command-Line Options

CoSession Host's operation can be modified in many ways by adding
optional arguments to the command line.  (An argument is one or
more characters or words added to a command that modify the
operation of the program it executes).

Note: For ease of use, the command line, with arguments, can be
placed in a batch file.

The full command structure is:

    HOST {argument_list}

where {argument_list} is an optional list of additional command
line arguments.

Controlling Memory Use

The HOST program uses between 61K and 73K of memory, depending on
how many features are activated when it is loaded.  For example,
providing file transfers without data compression takes less
memory than file transfers with data compression.

The -m command line argument lets you exchange capabilities for
memory requirements, as shown in the table below.

     Command Line Memory Use Arguments

Argument:           -mO  -m1** -m2  -m3
Memory used         61K  71K   73K  65K
---------------------------------------
Text mode            X    X     X    X
CGA Graphics                    X
CGA "Snow" Fixed*         X     X    X
Hercules Graphics    X    X     X    X
EGA Graphics         X    X     X    X
VGA Graphics         X    X     X    X
Compression on
File Transfers            X     X

Notes:  1.  *  eliminates screen "snow" exhibited by some older
CGA systems.

    2.  ** default mode is -m1 if no -mx argument is used

For example, consider the following command lines (which are
equivalent because -m1 is the default):

    HOST
	   or
    HOST -m1

Either of these would allow remote control of text or graphics
mode applications on a Hercules, EGA, or VGA system, and would
also allow data compression for fast file transfers.  However,
these command lines would not allow control of CGA graphics mode
applications (which would require the -m2 argument).

The command HOST -m0 uses the least memory.  It allows remote
control of all applications except CGA graphics. However, file
transfers will be slower because data compression is not
available.

Making a Call

To make a call you use the -c argument.  The command line
structure is:

    HOST -cname

where name, which is optional, is the name of a Phone Book entry
(see later in this chapter or in Chapter 6 for Phone Book
details).  If name is not specified, then the DEFAULT Phone Book
entry is used.

For example:

    HOST-cCORPMKTG

makes a call using the Phone Book entry named CORPMKTG.

Waiting for a Call

To wait for a call you use the -a argument.  The command line
structure is:

    HOST -aname

where name, which is optional, is the name of a Phone Book entry.
If name is not specified, then the DEFAULT Phone Book entry is
used.

For example:

    HOST  -aCORPMKTG

waits for a call using the connection and security settings in
the Phone Book entry named CORPMKTG.

Note:   If you have not changed the Auto-Answer on Loading Option
from its Yes default setting, then the command HOST is equivalent
to the command HOST -a, (i.e., HOST automatically loads the
software in Wait for Call mode using the DEFAULT Phone Book
settings).

Disconnecting

To disconnect a call you use the -x argument.  The command line
structure is:

    HOST -x

If a modem was used, this also resets the modem.

Note: Only one end of a remote control connection needs to issue
a disconnect command.  For example, if the Remote user
disconnects at their end, you don't need to disconnect at your
end.

Voice/Data Switching

The Voice/Data Switch argument, -v, is an advanced option that
let's you switch from voice to data communication modes.  The
command line structure is:

    HOST - v

Important: This function is only useable if you can access a
phone that is connected to the modem you will use.  This is an
advanced feature. It is recommended that you have some experience
with CoSession before trying it.


Combining Arguments

You can combine arguments in a single command line. For example,
the command line:

    HOST -m0 -aHOME

loads the Host software using minimum memory and awaits a call
based on the HOME Phone Book entry.

This is equivalent to using the two command lines:

    HOST -m0
    HOST -aHOME

Phone Book Utility

From the Phone Book Menu, you may Add new numbers, Delete
numbers, Change the information in a Phone Book Entry, Sort
entries, and configure COM ports and modems.

    To access this utility from within the HOST directory, type:

    PHONE [ENTER]

Adding a Name

1.  If you are adding a new name to your directory of a person or
company whom you wish to call or whom you wish to be able to call
you, choose Add from the Phone Book Menu.

2.  Type in the name for the person or company, then complete the
Description and Phone number as appropriate.  Do not forget to
include all appropriate numbers you need to access the number you
wish to call. Note:   The use of commas inserts a two-second
pause before dialing continues.

3.  Type in a Login Name and a Password that are specific to the
individual or company heading in the Phone Book Entry.  If you
have Password Protection activated in the Options section (as
discussed above), and the Remote PC uses the correct Login and
Password that you have assigned to them, they will be able to
remotely access your system (if the Host TSR is loaded).

Editing a Name

1.  If you wish to edit an entry in the Phone Book, choose Change
from the Phone Book Menu.

2.  Use the [TAB] key to move the highlight cursor to the items
you wish to modify, then type in the new value.

3.  When you have completed making the desired changes, choose
[F10] to save the new changes (or [ESC] if you wish to revert to
the previous values).

Changing COM Port Information

1.  If you need to change some of the original setup
specifications for your COM port or your modem, from the DOS
prompt in the HOST directory, type:

        PHONE [ENTER]

2.  Press [F4] (Change), then move the cursor down to the COM
Port section of the Phone Book Entry dialog box.

3.  To change Port, press [P] to toggle through the available COM
Ports.

4.  To change Baud Rate, press [B] to toggle through the
available baud rates.

5.  To change the Dial Mode, press [D] to toggle through the available
dial modes.

6.  To change Modems, press [M], then move the highlight cursor
to your modem by name or type. Modem Type Note: If you cannot
find your modem specifically, but it is Hayes-compatible with DIP
switches, select Hayes Basic.  If it is Hayes-compatible without
DIP switches, select Hayes Extended, which configures your modem
automatically (without the need for DIP switches).

Important Note: If your modem has DIP switches, be sure they are
set to allow the modem to recognize the true states of the Data
Terminal Ready (DTR) and Carrier Detect (CD) signals. Otherwise,
you may have problems making and receiving calls.  Please refer
to your modem documentation for further information.

Options Utility

This utility lets you activate password protection. The Password
Protection keeps unauthorized personnel from gaining access to
your system and files.  If you have Password Protection
activated, and if a caller does not know the appropriate
Password, they will not have access to your system.

1.  From the DOS prompt in the HOST directory type: 

    OPTIONS [ENTER]

2.  From the Options Menu, choose Security.  Highlight the
Password Protection option and press [ENTER]. Then press [F10] to
Save and Exit.

3.  If you wish, you may restrict access to specific drives and
directories by typing in the available drive and directory path.
Multiple drives and directories can be specified using
semicolons.

        For example:   C:\PUBLIC;C:\UTILITIES;A:;B:;F:\BIN

    Once you define a drive and path, remote access may only be
made to the drives, directories, and subdirectories that you
specify. Note:   A drive letter must ALWAYS precede the
directory.

4.  When you have completed making changes to the Host Options,
choose Save, then choose Close.  Choose only Close if you wish to
exit this dialog box without making changes.

Note:   Make sure that the entries in your phone book have Login
Names and Login Passwords.  If they do not, they will not be able
to access your system.


Running CoSession Host

Before using CoSession, be sure your PC's modem is turned on and
properly connected to the specified communications port.

CoSession Host is a terminate-and-stay-resident program.  It
loads and runs in the background, awaiting local keystrokes or a
remote connection to become active.  You should load any other
TSR programs you need before loading the HOST, or make sure that
TSRs you do use can be unloaded after using them for a remote
connection.  Otherwise you will not be able to subsequently
remove the HOST TSR from memory.

1.  To run the software, change to the HOST directory, and type:

        HOST [ENTER]

2.  Once loaded, you may call up the Host program to select it's
options at any time from within DOS by typing:

    [ALT] + [LEFT SHIFT]

Receiving A Call

Once you have loaded the Host software, your PC is ready to
receive a call from a Remote PC. After the person using the
Remote PC software dials up your modem, and after your Host PC
answers, the Host and Remote PCs exchange information to validate
the call.  After validation and the screen clears to show the
Remote PC what is on your screen, the Remote user may then
operate your PC.

Initiating A Call

    You may also initiate a call to a Remote PC by typing the
    following:

            HOST -cNAME [ENTER]

"NAME" is the Phone Book Entry name (exactly as entered in the
phone book).

You should be sure, by prior arrangement, that the Remote PC is
ready to receive your call before attempting the modem
connection.

Ending A Remote Control Session

    To terminate an active connection, at the DOS prompt, in the
HOST directory, type:

        HOST -x [ENTER]

This process disconnects the call and resets your modem
automatically to the configured state (awaiting a call, or
requiring you to specifically place or await a call). Unloading
CoSession to Free Up Memory

    You can unload the CoSession Host TSR from memory by changing
to the HOST directory and typing:

            HOST -U [ENTER]

Note:   If you have loaded any TSR programs after loading HOST
into memory, you will have to remove these before you can remove
HOST from memory.


Advanced Topics

Advanced Command Line Options

CoSession's operation can be modified in many ways by adding
optional arguments to the command line.  These arguments, unlike
the setup Options, are effective only for the session being
started.

This section describes the available command line arguments.

Note:   For ease of use, the command line, with arguments, can be
placed in a batch file.

Directory Options (Host and Remote Use)

CoSession can be installed in different environments. This
section describes some of the options, including network
installation.

CoSession can be installed on any drive and in any directory.
Furthermore, the CoSession data files can be stored in a
different directory than the CoSession install directory.

The CoSession data files consist of the following: 

Phone Book (SESSION.RMP), Options (SESSION.CFG), and Modem
configuration files (SESSION.MDM).  If you move any of the data
files to a different directory, then you must move all of the
data files.

However, if CoSession is not installed on drive C: in \HOST, and
you want to load CoSession from a directory that is not the
install directory, or use SESSION.xxx data files in a different
directory, then the following options must be used:

    -eD:PATH  where D: specifies the drive where

CoSession is installed, and PATH specifies the directory where
CoSession is installed.  (This is not required for Host
Utilities).

    -dD:  where D: specifies the drive where the data files
(SESSION.xxx) are installed.

    -pPATH  where PATH specifies the path where the data files
(SESSION.xxx) are installed.


For example, the command:

    HOST  -dC:  -p\MYPHONES -cSALESNYC

loads HOST from the current directory and makes a call (because
of the -c argument, explained later) using the SALESNYC Phone
Book entry from the Phone Book in C:\MYPHONES.

Notes:  1.  If the CoSession data files have been moved to a
different directory than the install directory, then the
directory option arguments must also be used with the PHONE,
OPTIONS, PRINTO, and TCONFIG utilities.  For instance, assuming
the environment used in the previous example, you would access
the Phone menu utility with the command PHONE -dF:  -p\COSJONES

    2.  For convenience, put the command lines with appropriate
directory arguments into batch files.  However, note that, if a
batch file is in the same directory as the program it executes,
then the batch file must have a different root name than the
program (e.g., you can not have a batch file named HOST.BAT in
the same directory as HOST.EXE).


Floppy Drive    

CoSession can be installed and executed from a floppy drive.

For example, the command below loads Remote from the root
directory of the diskette in drive A:

    REMOTE  -eA:\  -dA:  -p\


The -oN Special Operation Options

You can modify some operations of the HOST programs at loading by
using the -oN command-line option, where different N values cause
different effects, as follows:

Note:   You can add the N values together for a combination of
options. For example, -o10  if you want option 2 and 8.  Also,
some options do not work with both Host and Remote programs, but,
in some cases, using options when loading the Host software can
affect Remote operation while connected.

N=      Usage
-------------
1   If you do NOT want CoSession to cycle back to an auto- answer
mode after every call; normally, CoSession cycles back to an
auto-answer mode after every connection, if it was originally put
into an auto-answer mode.

2   (Host only)  If you want CoSession to always take over the
printing BIOS vector when the remote printing option is selected,
even when not connected.  Normally CoSession takes over the
printing BIOS vector for remote printing only when there is an
actual connection.  Typically, this option is required with
network print spool utilities that are loaded after CoSession.

8   (Host only)  If you do NOT use a Hercules compatible graphics
adapter and CoSession beeps when you try to hot key to menus, or
totally garbles the remote PC screen.

16  If your PC locks up when you attempt loading CoSession; some
PC clones with a particular type of BIOS do not support a clock
initialization that CoSession attempts when loading, this option
inhibits this clock initialization.

32  (Host only)  If you have a Hercules compatible video card and
the remote screen displays improperly when in Hercules graphic
mode.

128 (Host only)  This causes CoSession to get the current cursor
position via BIOS rather than directly via hardware; if, when you
remotely execute a particular application, the REMOTE.EXE screen
does not get updated, try this option.

    NOTE: This option is now a default. If you select - o128 you
will implement hardware cursor checking.

256 (Host only)  This causes CoSession to adjust its timing
handling to assume one timer interrupt every 5 milliseconds
versus every 55 milliseconds; this assumes an increase of about
12 to 1; you would use this option with an Alloy NTNX system.

512   To toggle the OUT1 bit in the UART Modem Control Register
when initializing the port; used by some internal modems as a
hardware reset.

1024  If using a mouse driver on HOST and, when connecting, you
want the REMOTE mouse driver to be initialized to the HOST mouse
driver state; HOST and REMOTE mouse drivers may need to be same
version; useful if connecting to a mouse driven application
already active on the HOST.

2048  To inhibit a disconnect if a timeout occurs on the "other
end OK" message exchange; by default, if CoSession does not
receive an "other end OK" message at least once per minute it
will assume a problem and disconnect.

4096  (Host only)  If Host PC is an AT&T 6300 series or
compatible and/or the Remote PC, when connected, scrolls
improperly and appears to be using a 43-line display mode, then
use this option with the Host application.

8192  (Host only)  If the Remote PC, when connected, scrolls
improperly, and changing the Host Hardware Option Special Console
Driver (available through OPTIONS) has no effect (after
restarting the connection), then use this option with the Host
application.


The -nN Special Operation Options

The -nN options handle some special cases not covered by the -oN
command-line options, where different N values cause different
effects, as follows: Note:   You can add the N values together
for a combination of options.  For example, -n10 if you want
option 2 and 8.

8   Suppresses CoSession use of 16550A UART FIFO buffers

16  (Host only) use on Host for some applications where the
colors on a Remote PC don't match the Host colors (e.g.,  if
remotely running Lotus 1-2-3 in WYSIWYG mode; this option
suppresses the sending of Palette Register information from the
Host to the Remote).

32  (Host only) use with EMSHOST on the Host if not sharing the
expanded memory page with any application; this allows EMSHOST to
avoid having to constantly save and restore the EMS map whenever
it processes an interrupt (see later EMSHOST discussion for more
details)


Other Special Operation Options

CoSession supports several other special operation options:

-b  (Host only)  If using a PC3270 style keyboard with more than
101 keys.

-f  Causes flow control to be used to stop receive data prior to
any file transfer disk I/O; if you experience transmit or receive
errors during file transfers, particularly at speeds greater than
2400BPS and/or on LANs when doing I/O to the file server, try
loading with the "-f" option.

-h  (Host only)  Causes HOST to swap to its own Program Segment
Prefix (PSP) before making any DOS calls; this may resolve
problems  when a foreground application uses up all available
file handles leaving none free for HOST.

-lxxx  (Remote only)  Enables logging, where xxx is an optional
operator ID.

-q  (Remote only)  Used with REMOTE -C (as described in next
topic), inhibits any display of menu screen during call attempt
(i.e., is a "quiet" mode).

Syntax: 

    REMOTE -C -Q

-r  (Host only)  Automatically redirects both LPT1 and LPT2 Host
printers to corresponding Remote printers without having to use
Print Menu (overides Print Menu Port Assignments)

-s  (Host only)  Use  with the Genius 66-line display mode.

-w  (HOST program only)  Suppresses ability to Hot Key to Chat Window

-y  (HOST program only)  Causes Host (instead of Remote) to initiate a
login when Host answers.

-zX Sends Chat display print to printer other than LPT1, where X=1 for
LPT2 and X=2 for LPT3

Available Memory

If you have an especially memory-hungry application, and there is
still insufficient memory to load HOST, you have two options:

o   Check for other memory resident programs or drivers that are
being loaded by the Host's AUTOEXEC.BAT or CONFIG.SYS.  After
making a backup, edit either (or both) of these files to remove
any statements that load programs or drivers that are not
required. Then, re-boot the system and try again with HOST.

o   If the Host is a 386 computer with DOS 5.0 ,QEMM, or 386MAX,
load HOST into high memory with the LOADHI command as described
later.

Modems and Cables

Most technical support calls we receive concern modems not being
installed properly or port parameters not being specified
correctly. Therefore, before you call, please read this section.

Cabling Pin Arrangements (Modem & Direct)

25 PIN              Modem
-------------------------
XMIT  2 ------    2   XMIT
RCV   3 ------    3   RCV
RTS   4 ------    4   RTS
CTS   5 ------    5   CTS
DSR   6 ------    6   DSR
GND   7 ------    7   GND
DCD   8 ------    8   DCD
DTR  20 ------   20   DTR

9 PIN				Modem
-------------------------
DCD   1 ------    8   DCD
RCV   2 ------    3   RCV
XMIT  3 ------    2   XMIT
DTR   4 ------    20  DTR
GND   5 ------    7   GND
DSR   6 ------    6   DSR
RTS   7 ------    4   RTS
CTS   8 ------    5   CTS
RI    9 ------    22  RI

Direct Connect Cables ( Null Modem )

25 PIN              25 PIN
--------------------------
XMIT  2 ------    3   RCV
RCV   3 ------    2   XMIT
RTS   4 ------    5   CTS
CTS   5 ------    4   RTS
DSR   6 ------    20  DTR
GND   7 ------    7   GND
DTR   20 ------6  DSR

9 PIN				9 PIN
-------------------------
RCV   2 ------    3   XMIT
XMIT  3 ------    2   RCV
DTR   4 ------    6   DSR
GND   5 ------    5   GND
DSR   6 ------    4   DTR
RTS   7 ------    8   CTS
CTS   8 ------    7   RTS

9 PIN				25 PIN
--------------------------
RCV   2 ------    2   XMIT
XMIT  3 ------    3   RCV
DTR   4 ------    6   DSR
GND   5 ------    7   GND
DSR   6 ------    20  DTR
RTS   7 ------    5   CTS
CTS   8 ------    4   RTS

Modem Selection

If the modem you are using is on the CoSession modem list, then
select it as described in the instructions for the Phone Book.

If the modem you are using is not listed by CoSession then do the
following:

1.  If you are using a modem that doesn't use DIP switches to
define DTR (Data Terminal Ready) and DCD (Data Carrier Detect)
handling, then select Hayes Extended as your modem type.  Set the
baud rate to match the ???highest speed of your modem, e.g. 1200,
2400.???

2.  If you are using a modem with DIP switches for DTR and DCD,
then check the switch settings as described below and select
Hayes Basic as your modem type. Also, read the following sections
to make sure your modem is installed and configured correctly .

Customized Modem Control Strings

CoSession provides a long list of predefined modems. Each modem
definition is composed of a series of modem strings and a series
of Yes/No switches that define how characters are sent and
received from the modem, and how certain modem operations are
invoked.

You can customize each of the modem types to control any
asynchronous modem as well as to "script" connections through
PBXs, modem pools, or X.25 public PADs, over leased lines, or
literally to any device that requires a text "handshake".  The
strings of any of the modems can be edited, including having
their name changed.

CoSession provides eight modem types called Custom1 through
Custom8 that are blank.  It is suggested that Custom1 through
Custom8 be used to add modems or scripts that are not otherwise
provided by CoSession. It is best to edit the existing modems
strings only if you are using the particular modem and need to
customize its use.

Look at the predefined modem strings for detailed examples.

All of the modem strings are stored in the file SESSION.MDM.

To Define Custom Strings:

1.  Select the Phone Book Add or Change function. 

2.  Choose the Modems parameter.

3.  Use the arrow keys or the mouse to highlight the modem
selection you want to edit.

4.  Press [F1] to view or change the modem string.  

5.  Use the arrow keys to move between fields.  When in the field
you want to edit, the default mode is overtype.  If you want to
insert characters, then press the [INS] key.  Press [INS] again
to end insert mode.  [DEL] will delete characters.

6.  When you are finished, press [F10] to exit and save your
changes.  Press [ESC] to exit without saving your changes.


Special Characters

When defining the modem strings several characters have a special
meaning.  These are as follows:

    ~   : 1/2 second delay
	 ,	: 2 second delay
	\ 	: carriage return
	| 	: line feed
	@	: send a break signal
	^	: control  (for example, ^A = <<Ctrl>> A)
	] 	: end-of-string (terminates the string)
	;	: wait for response delimiter
  #xxx  : wait for xxx seconds for defined response, 1-999 are valid
	?	: insert ring count, example, S0=?; the ring count 
          is set with Option - Answer on Ring Count.

In order to have any of the special characters above treated
normally, precede the character with the slash character /, for
example, /@.  To have / treated normally, specify it as //.

String Descriptions

The strings that can be defined are as follows:

MODEM NAME:  The name to be displayed in the modem window and the
Phone Book entry modem field

INITIALIZE:  This string is used first on a Call, on a Wait For
Call, and on "voice first" Voice connection when switching to
data mode

DIAL PREFIX:  This string is used on a Call after the INITIALIZE
string, and before the string in the phone number field of the
current phone book entry

DIAL SUFFIX:  This string is used on a Call after the string in
the phone number field of the current phone book entry

AUTO-ANSWER:  This string is used on a Wait For Call after the
INITIALIZE string

DISCONNECT:  This string is used on a Hangup, and after the user
has picked up the telephone handset on a Voice Switch

VOICE SWITCH:  This string is used on a Voice Switch before the
user is asked to pick up the telephone handset

DATA SWITCH-ORIG:  This string is used on a Voice Switch when
switching to data mode, and after the INITIALIZE string on a
"voice first"; it is used for the originating side of the
connection

DATA SWITCH-ANSW:  This string is used on a Voice Switch when
switching to data mode, and after the INITIALIZE string on a
"voice first"; it is used for the answer side of the connection

CONNECT RESPONSE: This string defines the minimum expected in the
connect response message receive on a Call, Wait For Call, and
Voice Switch when switching to data mode

INTER-CHAR DELAY:  This is a Yes/No field which defines whether
characters sent to the COM port are to be spaced at 200
millisecond intervals or sent as fast as they can be by
CoSession.  This option is necessary for some modems that are
sensitive to the speed at which characters are sent.

FIX BAUD RATE:  This is a Yes/No field which defines whether
CoSession should change its baud rate based on the connection
speed of the modem. Some modems with compression can have an
effective throughput of greater than 9600 baud even though the
connection between the modems is at 9600 baud.  To achieve this
increase in speed the characters must be sent from CoSession to
the modem at the higher baud rate, 19,200 baud in many cases; the
modem then compresses the data and transmits it at 9600 baud. The
effective throughput is greater than 9600 baud because of the
compression the modem achieves.

H/W FLOW CONTROL:  This is a Yes/No field which defines whether
the modem uses RTS/CTS hardware flow control.  Most modems do not
use RTS/CTS flow control; MNP error correcting modems and many
multiplexers do.  If you are using an MNP modem or a multiplexer
you should set this field to Yes.

Debugging Modem Strings

There are two ways to debug modem strings:

o   Use CoSession's COM Port Window function to manually enter
modem strings to be sure they work

o   Turn the COM Port Monitor Option ON; then, when you select
CALL, you can watch commands sent and data received form the
modem

Modem Switch Settings

CoSession needs to control and know the condition of your modem
and phone line.  This requires switches on your modem to be set
properly. If your modem has switches, check the following:

DTR - Data Terminal Ready - must be controlled by CoSession and
NOT set to always be true or ignored. DTR is used by CoSession to
tell the modem it is ready to connect.  If your modem has a
switch to force DTR to always be true or for the modem to ignore
DTR, it must be disabled.

DCD - Date Carrier Detect (or CD) - CoSession uses this to sense
complete connections.  Modem must be set to recognize the actual
line state and NOT force CD to be true or ignored.

The following is a list of some specific modem switch settings:

    Hayes 1200 - Switches 3 & 8 down, all other switches up.

    Hayes 1200B internal - Switch 3 down, all others up.

    Hayes 2400 - no switches.

    U.S. Robotics Courier HST/DUAL/V.32 - Switches 1,2,4,6,7,10
up, all others down.

    U.S. Robotics Sportster,2400E - Switch 1 & 6 off, all others on.

    U.S. Robotics Sportster MNP - All switches up.

    Microcom AX - Front switches 2 & 8 down, rear switches 6 & 7
down, all others up.

    Microcom QX - Front switches 2,3 & 8 down, rear switches
2,3,6,7 & 8 down, all others up.

    Multitech 224E - Bottom switch 1 up.  Inside switch 1 down.
RTS jumper set to Normal.


Troubleshooting

If you encounter problems using CoSession, this section should
help you isolate the problem and resolve it.  In addition, the
index may be useful in resolving problems.

Many special situations can be addressed through command line
arguments.

If these efforts do not resolve your problem, please call
Triton's technical support for assistance.  See the Customer
Support Information appendix for contact details.

Keyboard or Mouse Problems

Many technical support questions concern the keyboard or mouse
and not having keystrokes or mouse movements on the Remote
recognized on the Host.  In other words, a Remote user can see
what's happening on the Host but cannot control it.  Below is a
typical problem and solution.

PROBLEM: My Host PC is not responding when I press the CoSession
Hot Keys, or Chat mode doesn't seem to work.

EXPLANATION: First, note that, because of DOS limits on mixed
display modes, Hot Keys and the Host Chat Window do not work (on
the Host) if a Host application is currently running in graphics
mode (vs. text mode). Because nearly all Windows screens (except
full-screen DOS) are in graphics mode, this limitation applies to
Windows applications.

    The other potential Hot Key problem is that the Host
application currently running (or memory resident) is
intercepting keystrokes and is not "passing them on" to
CoSession.  In some cases, changing the CoSession Hot Key using
the Options Menu will resolve this problem.

Modem Problems

If you suspect modem problems, you should review these problems
and cures.  If you don't find your problem, refer to the Modems
and Cables section for further information.

PROBLEM: My high-speed (9600 baud or higher) modem doesn't work
correctly, but I set the Phone Book BAUD field to match my
modem's highest speed.

EXPLANATION: Some high-speed modems (especially those using MNP
or other hardware compression systems) use one baud rate between
the modem and PC serial port but deliver a different effective
baud rate for communication between modems (e.g. nearly all
modems with a 14,400 baud effective rate between modems require a
baud rate different than 14,400 between the PC serial port and
the modem).  Refer to your modem's manual to find the recommended
baud rate setting for the COM port used by the modem.

PROBLEM: When you do [F6] to disconnect, your line does not
hang-up and your modem does not reset.

EXPLANATION: The DTR switch on your modem is set incorrectly.
Your modem is ignoring the DTR signal from CoSession.  Check your
modem manual to change the DTR switch.  If your modem does not
have switches then use the Hayes Extended modem setting in your
Call ID.

PROBLEM: Your modem will not dial.

EXPLANATION: This may be a DTR problem.  See the previous explanation.

PROBLEM: When the other computer disconnects your modem does not
disconnect the line.

EXPLANATION: The DCD or CD switch on your modem is set
incorrectly. Your modem is assuming that CD is always true and
does not recognize that the line has been disconnected.  Check
your modem manual to change the DCD or CD switch.  If your modem
does not have switches then use the Hayes Extended modem
selection in your Phone Entry.

PROBLEM: When I try to CALL or WAIT FOR CALL, CoSession
immediately fails.

EXPLANATION: An immediate failure indicates that CoSession is not
able to make contact with the modem.  This is probably due to a
port conflict.  A port conflict occurs when two or more cards in
the computer have the same port address or when CoSession is
directed to the wrong port.

    Many add-on cards and internal modems have switches that are
used to define COM port assignments.  The COM port can be 1,2,3
or 4 and no two cards can have the same assignment.  You should
verify that this is the case.

    Another possibility is that you have specified the wrong port
number in the Phone Entry you are using. Check and make sure the
Port number in the Phone Entry matches the port number that the
modem is connected to.

PROBLEM: My computer does not answer incoming calls or the other
computer does not answer my call.

EXPLANATION: First verify the phone number.  Next, verify that
each modem is connected properly to its PC and  phone line.

    For CoSession to answer a call it must be in WAIT DIAL-IN
mode.  If this fails you may have an incorrect port, modem type,
or baud rate specified. If using the Call Menu, be sure you are
highlighting the right Phone Entry before selecting Wait For
Call.  If you set CoSession to automatically Auto Answer then be
sure the DEFAULT Phone Book entry has the correct Port
Parameters.

PROBLEM: I dial out at 2400 Baud and the connection is made at
1200 Baud.

EXPLANATION: The remote modem may be a 1200 Baud modem or, if the
remote computer is set for automatic Auto Answer, then the
DEFAULT Phone Book entry may not be set for 2400 Baud.

Problems With Direct Connect

If you are unable to make a connection with a direct cable then
check the following:

1.  The Phone Book entry used on both computers must be set for
the same baud rate.  Each entry must also be set for the proper
port and a modem type of Direct Connect.

2.  One machine must be in a Wait for Call Mode.

3.  The Cable being used must be a null-modem cable as defined in
Appendix C.

    To verify that items 1 and 3 are correct, the COM Window can
be opened on both machines (using the Call Menu).  Any keystrokes
typed on one machine should appear on the other.

Note:   If CoSession is set to automatically Auto Answer, it uses
the DEFAULT Phone Book entry, which must have the correct port
and baud rate, and a modem type of Direct Connect.###

Scrolling And Slow Screen Updates

PROBLEM: Whenever the display on the Host scrolls, the entire
screen on the Remote is redrawn or is very slow in updating.

EXPLANATION: CoSession should scroll the display on the Remote
quickly. If this is not occurring, the Host is probably using a
console driver like ANSI.SYS.  Check the Host PC's CONFIG.SYS
file for a command line like device = ANSI.SYS.

If such a line exists, and the Host is using DOS 4.01 or earlier,
then, on the Host, set Option - Special Console Driver to YES or
AUTO.  If Special Console Driver is set to YES and the display is
slow, try setting it to NO.  (For DOS 5.0 or later this should
always be set to NO).

If this doesn't solve the problem, then use the -o8192 special
option: i.e. start the Host program using either HOST  -o8192  or
HOSTMENU -o8192.

PROBLEM: The Remote screen is updating slowly in Full Speed mode.

EXPLANATION: There is probably something constantly changing on
the screen like a clock.  The Remote user should switch to
Synchronous mode by pressing <<Ctrl>><<Alt>><<S>>.

File Transfers

In general, you get the best file transfer performance with
CoSession if you use CoSession's data compression to transfer
uncompressed files.

IMPORTANT: File transfer speed will be adversely effected if you
let CoSession File use file compression during the transmission
of files that are already compressed (e.g. "arc'ed" or "zipped"
files). Therefore, before transferring an arc'ed file, the Remote
user should press <<Alt >><<O>> at the File Transfer main screen
and change the FIle Compression option to OFF.

CoSession's compression works fine with the MNP level 5, V.32bis,
and V.42bis compression found in many modems.

-- END --

