Cassette Filenames And Built-in BASIC

I own an Atari 400 computer. Can you specify a filename for the 410 program recorder? Also, how do you run a program that asks you to remove the BASIC cartridge on the 600XL? Since BASIC is built-in, it seems like it might be impossible.

Doug Stevens

The tape operating system could have been written to allow filenames, but since tape access is sequential and so slow compared to a disk drive, filenames are not especially useful. You can instead use the tape counter to find and position programs. Be sure to leave plenty of space between programs, since the tape counter is not precise, and you could inadvertently write over a program.

Some programs require 48K, 8K of which is not available with a cartridge plugged in. These programs check for a cartridge and ask you to remove it before the program will run. The 600XL has only 16K, though, so this shouldn't be a problem. In any case, you can effectively remove (disable) the built-in BASIC by holding down the OPTION key while you turn on the computer.