PC Magazine
May 24, 1999
602Pro PC SUITE
By Stephen W. Plain

602Pro PC Suite, from Software602 ($49.95 direct), comprises word processor, spreadsheet, photo-manipulation, and integrated desktop programs. Each component has the comfortable look and feel of a feature-complete application. The package, a 13.7MB download, lacks a database program but offers mail-merge functionality in its 602Text word processor, which works with existing CSV and DBF files as well as ODBC data sources.

602Text has all of the standard word-processor building blocks, including multiple floating toolbars, various views, selectable type styles, a spell- checker, and a thesaurus. Also included are such built-in Web features as an HTML Look view, a preview of the HTML source, and menu entries for transferring files to and from the Internet via FTP or HTTP.

In testing, we noted that the dictionary and thesaurus were not as complete as we expected, but we found plenty of nice surprises. The program offers form objects such as Submit buttons, radio buttons, drop-down select-list boxes that simplify HTML coding, and a built-in e-mail merge feature.

The suite's spreadsheet program, 602Tab, closely mimics the look and behavior of Microsoft Excel, albeit with a simplified feature set. The program also supports all of the basic calculation, financial, and statistical functions. 602Tab opened our Lotus 1-2-3 and Excel 97 workbooks, and graphing was literally a one-click affair. We simply highlighted data and hit the chart button, then chose among 16 chart styles.

602Photo is the bundle's photo-manipulation program. It opens all major graphic file formats and lets you apply a number of effects, including diffuse, red-eye removal, and embossing. Also included is Picture Tuning, a feature that lets you apply sequential adjustments using nine example previews.

The suite presents a unified face with 602Desk--a desktop file management program. This application lets you organize your files via cabinets, binders, and folders; it features document previews similar to those of photo management software. 602Desk has a central interface for your scanner, e-mail, and fax programs as well.

602Pro PC Suite easily surpasses its price in value. The component applications are simple to use and offer usable home companions to the mainstream business suite you use at the office.