Can I use dBase, Lotus 1-2-3, WordStar, etc. along with Indian scripts supported on GIST?
Ans.: Yes. This is the most significant feature for the people who are planning to have large databases and applications running on the PC platform. In fact any commercial software that was meant for use with English language only, can now be used with your script. All with the help of GIST card. However, software like Lotus 1-2-3 do not allow the 8-bit character sets. So, the 7-bit mode has to be enabled by pressing Alt-M-7 combination before using such software. This 7-bit mode is provided only for Indian script family and is not usable with other scripts like Thai, Tibetan, Sinhalese. There are other equivalent packages like Quattro which allow 8-bit characters and they may be used instead. The only limitation is that GIST card will work with text-mode software only. It does not work with graphics mode software like Microsoft Windows, AutoCAD, etc. Now, the same functionality can be got under MS-Windows etc. by using the GIST-ISM package. It uses ISFOC fonts to display the various s
