Remote Control Software

Any of these remote control packages will accomplish the task of controlling another PC from a distant machine. Since all of the programs are easy to use, perform the same functions, and provide excellent security, there is no one clear winner. If your aim is to control Windows programs remotely, then Carbon Copy for Windows is the fastest software. It falls short in running DOS based programs and has greater hardware requirements because it is a Windows application. Norton pcAnywhere is a reliable program that rivals Carbon Copy for Windows' speed, even when controlling a Windows program remotely. Its support for DOS is better. Close-Up is the easiest to install, will run DOS programs without problem, and can run Windows programs as well. Under Windows, DOS programs can be executed in a window or as a full screen application. However, its speed ratings when working in Windows have been among the slowest. Carbon Copy for the Mac brings most of the features of the Windows version of this program to the Macintosh environment. The software allows users to control remote Macintosh computers, and to perform file transfers in the background. It does not permit a PC to control a Mac or a Mac to control a PC. List prices for these programs are $179 to $199 for packages with host and remote software, but street prices range from approximately $100 to $120. A 9600 baud modem with data compression (yielding a net speed of about 14,400 bits/sec) and error correction costs approximately $200 to $300.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)