Hi folks, As a continuation from previous post, I thought I should point out some answers to frequently asked questions on software (mostly for majority or newbies' benefit). Some of them are old queries while others are specific to a type of BrailleNote or an operating system. The information is mostly based on Apex (with variation for other models) - questions that appear frequently on this list (well, at least those I read for the past five years or so):
1. What is KeySoft? keySoft (keysoft.exe) is the program suite that powers BrailleNote. Technically, this is the user interface system that HumanWare has implemented on top of Windows CE (see question 2). In theory (not confirmed yet), KeySoft receives input from users and passes it to the operating system and vice versa using its own way of presenting information. Not all features on the BrailleNote are implemented on keysoft.exe - there are modules that work together or runs in addition to keySoft, such as Internet Explorer for Windows CE (iexplore.exe) and media modules (kswmedia.exe) among other things. 2. What is an operating system: In simple words, an operating system can be thought of as a special program or programs which allows a user to use a computer system, which includes hardware, software and things in between. Essentially, it is a special software managing day to day run of a computer via memory management, communication between programs and performing other crucial tasks so that a computer (such as BrailleNote) can function. 3. What is Windows CE? Windows CE is a special operating system from Microsoft for specialized, embedded devices. The aim of this OS (operating system) was to power special computers designed for industrial and specialized applications, such as information appliance, GPS systems and so forth. Even though we have a similar product known as Windows Mobile (now Windows Phone), these two should not be confused - Windows CE is the backbone while Windows Mobile (technically KeySoft for BrailleNOte) is the user interface. 4. Can a user run external programs or write one on KeySoft? Theoretically, it is possible to run or even write an external program for BrailleNote models. However, in order for this to happen, a crucial tool called Software Development Kit (SDK) specific to KeySoft is required. According to MSDN documentation, an SDK for Windows CE device is a collection of functions and tools for a particular device so that a programmer can write programs designed for the device in question. Since this is not available, programmers cannot write third party programs (although we wish we'd do it for practicing programming skills, with some of us writing games and other utility software to be ported to KeySoft later). If one wishes, one can write program code using any programming or markup language, although in terms of actually running that program, it is not possible. As of 2010, only programs written by HumanWare can be run under KeySoft. 5. Can a user run programs designed for PC's on BrailleNote? No. As it turns out, the internal "wording" (program structure) differences between programs for PC's and Windows CE devices prevents this. Also, because of processor differences, programs designed for regular computers cannot run. 6. Are there "hidden" features in KeySoft? Yes, although some of them were not documented. Some users call them "easter eggs" - hidden features in programs. This includes a Tetris game, a facility to test WPA Personal (PSK) encryption and performing Flash Disk format. 7. Are there hacks available for KeySoft? Yes. Should not be confused with "hidden features," as hacks use existing features to perform "unusual" tasks. As of 2010, the best well-known hacks are running system commands via command prompt, modifying system sounds (with consequences), renaming file extensions to unzip compressed archives and viewing KeySoft debug messages through serial port. Please do not ask me about how these can be done (at least not here), as doing it at wrong times or resetting an Apex (for one of them in particular) would result in loss of "some data". 8. Do I necessarily have to reinstall KeySoft to reinitialize data? No. Resetting a BrailleNote or using a known command under a hidden menu usually restores system files. For instance, if one deletes General folder, the next time KeySoft restarts, this folder will be recreated with default files restored. That is all I can think of... Anything else? Cheers, Joseph (UCR) ___ Replies to this message will go directly to the sender. If your reply would be useful to the list, please send a copy to the list as well. To leave the BrailleNote list, send a blank message to [email protected] To view the list archives or change your preferences, visit http://list.humanware.com/mailman/listinfo/braillenote
