One of the problems encountered when changing from a tape-based system to disc storage is that tape-based programs that use the first page of graphics memory will no longer run. This is because, with the exception of DeltaDos, the disc controller takes that area over to use as work space. Of course the controller could always be unplugged when you want to use such programs. However, this constant disturbing of the connectors would do the contacts no good at all. A better idea is to effectively deta eh the Dos using a software switch (as was published in DU many moons ago). Better still would be to shift the disc workspace to a position where it is unlikely to get in the way, and this is precisely what Pulser Software set out to do with Discup. With Discup installed the workspace starts somewhere above 32000. This means that not only will programs that need the first page run but the disc is still useable. In fact, Pulser claim that using Discup, "nearly all graphic programs will run". It was this claim I decided to put to the test first. Imagine being able to play Jet Set Willy without having to remove the controller; it seemed to good to be true.

Unfortunately, such was indeed the case. All four of the programs I chose for my test (Manic Miner, Jet Set Willy, Fire Force and Superkid) either failed to load with Discup installed, or loaded then crashed when run. However my biggest disappointment came when Paul Wicks' Mode 24 semigraphics, published in DU October 86, also crashed.

In short it would be fair to say that if Brian Gadgets Disc Detach program didn't help, then Discup will not either. Two sources of irritation were that first it was necessary to load the program then wait for the disc motor to stop before typing EXEC. Failure to do this meant that the disc ran continuously. Secondly, the system obviously interfered with the error routine, as every error was reported as an ?FE error, no matter what the cause!

The first of these is easily overcome using a short Basic program feature a delay via the TIMER command. Indeed so simple is it that I can't understand why it was not included on the disc. After all, RUN 'DISCUP' looks a lot more professional than the method used. The second problem is a good deal more serious; all you will really know is that an error has occurred. As to what sort of error, it will be guesswork. Where this system does score is that when a program does run, the disc can still be used. This means that unprotected programs, i.e. those printed in DU which poke the graphics pages to achieve their display, can now be stored on disc without alteration. If you have a lot of this type of software then Discup would be a worthwhile investment. The price means that you have not got much to lose Discup runs only on the Dragon 64 (or upgraded 32) and is available for Dragon - Dos or SuperDos £6.