Originally, I had no intention of writing a weekly series, but my ratings online
seem to be favorable and I firmly believe that consumers need to be kept
apprised.

Zip Technology received my defective ZipGSX on November 19, 1990 and a new one
was shipped out on that same date.   It arrived this week and I eagerly, but
cautiously, opened the package.  I was determined to follow the instructions to
the letter.

The first order of business was to run the software.  It was handily launched
from the "Wings" main screen.   The software was impressive in Hyperstudio stack
format.  Well designed windows allow the user to learn about the ZipGSX, to
become familiar with ZipGSX installation and to install a variety of useful
configuration files.

There are a  minimum of three methods to configure the ZipGSX using the software.
 Included are a CDev, a utility system file and CDA.  Personally, I found the
ZipGSX utility program the most useful.  It is important to note that the
software will override any dip switch settings on the ZipGSX.   After some
software experimentation I thought, " If the board works as well as the software,
then I'd be enthralled."

I held my breath, turned on the monitor and booted my IIGS.  Ugh!  Those
rectangular squares reappeared on the "Wings" initial screen again. Then, I
attempted to run a number of programs.  Bang! Crash!  ReadyLink was nonfunctional
and I experienced disaster when trying to run Sound Shop and Publish It Three.  
"Where's that support number!" I mumbled to myself.  Fortunately, I was able to
get through to Zip Technology immediately and I asked to speak to Steve Meadows. 
My call was handled efficiently and in few moments I was speaking to Steve. 
Steve and I are on a first name basis.  It doesn't surprise me; I'm such a
nuisance.

Steve discussed the matter with me and requested that I disable the ZipGSX, but
leave the board in place.  I was told that if problems still existed, then the
board was the culprit because it was not "communicating" properly with my IIGS. 
Sure enough, those rectangular blocks were still haunting me.  Out came the
ZipGSX and it was put back in its shipping box.

"Well," Steve said, "I've got one more suggestion."

"I'm listening; go ahead."

"We've got some new prototype boards coming in that are supposed to take care of
problems like the ones that you've experienced."

"How long is the delay,"  I inquired.

"Suppose to be in by the end of this week, but could go into next week."

"Well Steve, I'll give Zip one more opportunity to rectify this situation before
I call it quits."

As you all can see, I haven't been satisfied to date, but I am affording Zip the
opportunity to make amends.  Stay tuned for the next episode.

written by, Paul T. Klenk