30 Jul
2021
30 Jul
'21
5:39 p.m.
On 7/30/21 4:36 PM, Fred Cisin via cctalk wrote:
Well, form letters are "important".
But, once microcomputer word processing matured, they could be done
easily and much better.
An acquaintance was working on creating an emulation of the MT/ST, as a
way for those who were familiar with the MT/ST and/or actually liked it,
to be able to continue unchanged on a microcomputer.
But, then he started adding features.? Besides delaying the completion
until it was no longer relevant, it was suggested that he change the
name from "MT/ST" (pronounced "empty ST") to "FULL ST".
One of the shortcomings of the MT/ST when compared to word processors is
the lack of a good "mailmerge" option. You could code a stop code on
the tape, where the typewriter would allow for manual fill-in-the-blanks
operation, but that gets pretty cumbersome when dealing with hundreds of
copies.
Superseded by the MC/ST system, the "mag card" Selectric in 1969. Far
more convenient and better integrated into the typewriter itself (no
separate keypad). The MC/ST II in 1973 introduced the ability to
"batch" up to 50 cards.
Here's a promo film from the period, narrated by the guy driving his
road yacht with the AM radio and chatting about it.
https://youtu.be/bW_jJjUarp0
--Chuck