Apple Newton on All About Jake

Newton BT-001

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 20:58:16 +0000

What is the BT-001#

Simply put the BT-001 is an internal bluetooth module for the Newton 2×00. It’s based on the same idea as PCBMan’s SER-001.

How does it work?#

Version 1.1 uses a Ericsson ROK 101 008 Bluetooth module. I bought several on eBay. These modules are Bluetooth 1.1 qualified, class 2 with an HCI interface.Version 1.0 was based on a BlueRadios radio module. It had a a 126 buffer IC on there to isolate the module when the external port is in use.

SVG Converter

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 20:29:12 +0000

What is This?#

This is a NewtonScript routine (not an application) that takes a Notes entry (paperroll stationery) and converts it into SVG code.

What’s it for?#

Maybe it will grow into an application someday.

Some what’s left to do?#

Well, the hardest part, believe it or not, is handling text and fonts.

SVG does not support text wrapping, so the converter will have to manually wrap the text.
It is hard to wrap the text when you don’t know how long each character is.
It is possible to embed the font into the SVG document, but that involves writing a Newton font-to-SVG converter. I’m not sure I really want to get that involved. (Though it is possible.) Then you’d be certain that the fonts in the SVG document render exactly as they do on the Newton.
Rich strings (text with inkWords mixed in) need to be handled too. I haven’t even looked at that yet.

The code#

A few constants are in a different file, but you should get the idea.

NUDrop

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 20:22:09 +0000

# What is NUdrop?

An application designed to be used as a backdrop for your Newton. Its main feature is tabs for quick access to the items in your drawer. The downloadable pkg of NUDrop has been on my Newton for several years and I recovered the package by emailing it to myself from there.

Use it at your own risk. (As always)

NewtonIM

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 20:14:36 +0000

# What is NewtonIM?

NewtonIM is a jabber client for the Newton Message Pad 2×000. It requires Newton Internet Enabler.

What does it cost?#

NewtonIM is free, of course. If you’d like to send me a Writewrite or two in thanks, however, it would be greatly appreciated (or at least the name of a supplier). I might break down and try those Nu screen guards, but I like my writerights! 🙂