Connecting to a PC There exists a package called MCLink, but it's not very good... If you want DOS based programs, try Psion's RCom instead. If you want Windows based connectivity, then Psiwin will do the job. (Download free from Psion. If you have trouble downloading, then I would suggest buying the 3LIB CDROM. Psiwin will connect to the MC if you set the speed at 19200baud on both ends. Just remember one thing: Never try to use Psiwin's Backup function... It will first close all running programs to avoid open files before backing up... The problem is that the Link program is a standalone program on the MC... (Psiwin ends up killing the link :-) The original cable used to connect the MC to a PC might be difficult to obtain, but it has the same plugs and pinout as the end on the Psion S3/S3a's serial lead.(The part of it that goes between the pod and the PC) The plug that goes into the MC is the same as used on 'Busmouse' type PC mouse's. (Common around 1990. look at garage sales) They look almost like PS/2 connectors... (I will try to upload a pinout soon)

Style sheets The MC's Text processor can save the defined styles used in a document separately... The style sheet name will be suggested as ending.tps where the first part is the same as the last part of your documents name... When you open a file without style information, the Text processor program will first look in the same folder as the document for a stylesheet with a first name the same as the last name of the file, and if it can't find it there, then search the < >Default folder(M:\ until you change it). If the file is found, then it is applied to the file you're opening.

File associations If you want to make the system recognize certain filetypes as belonging to an application, then you just create a file called DEF.EXT and sace it in the Root of a local disc. (I suggest M:\ ) A typical file might look like this: tp.app=txt,ext,diz,me Use one line per app, and list all the extensions it is to recognize on the line. (Adding the EXT bit allows you to associate this file with the Text processor. the DIZ file is for File_ID.DIZ file that often accompanies Shareware/Freeware, and the ME is for read.ME files ) Just remember that the application must be able to handle the format of the file...

The rechargeable battery packs After 10 years the battery pack is probably not too good any longer... To repair it, it's just a question of replacing the cells. If you peel off the label on the pack, you'll find the screw that holds it together. The 1000mA battery pack uses special size cells known as 4/5 A size.(43mm long 17mm diameter) These can be bought at Maplin UK (order code AG18U ) or at RS Components (order code 196-6709 ) The replacement cells are 1200mA, so will need somewhat longer to fully recharge. These batteries are 'tabbed' for soldering. Make certain to bend the tabs so that they don't poke outside of the battery stacks. Othervise you won't be able to close the pack! I don't know which cells are used in the 600mA battery pack, but I belive that it is tabbed AA cells. DO NOT fall for the temptation of using Ni-mh cells! The chargeing circuit IS NOT built to handle them. At best, you would have to increase the recharge time, at worst, the battery pack might overheat...