PC Tools 7.0 - Central Point Software Inc.'s file management software

Home Office Computing, Sept, 1991

PC Tools 7.0

Rating: * * * *

VERSION REVIEWED: 7.0 LIST PRICE: $179 STREET PRICE RANGE: $120-$150 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: 640K IBM compatible; hard-disk drive recommended; DOS 3.0 or higher; 5.25- and 3.5-inch PUBLISHER: Central Point Software, (503) 690-8090, (800) 888-8199 PC Tools was the only DOS program tested that includes both a file-backup system and built-in virus protection, two extremely valuable capabilities (Norton and Mace offer backup and virus programs, but they're sold separately). In fact, PC Tools is a virtual cornucopia of utilities, including a full-featured DOS shell that effectively stream-lines file-management tasks, complete with file viewers that accurately display many database, spreadsheet, word-processing, and even PCX graphics files while you work with them. There are also a telecommunications utility, basic word processor, outlining and database programs, an assortment of financial and scientific calculators, an appointment scheduler, and an autodialer for calling a phone number through your modem, all available as stand-alone programs or as memory-resident utilities.

The latest version of PC Tools adds three worthwhile utilities for Microsoft Windows users: a file-backup program, a program launcher, and a file-undelete facility. Disk testing and fine-tuning capabilities have been improved dramatically. Also added was Commute, a program that lets you run another computer by remote control.

Whew! That's a lot to explain, but the extensive documentation handles the task admirably, and there is copious on-line help just an F1 key away. The generous selection of utilities, each of which delivers precisely what it promises, makes PC Tools an undisputed bargain.