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dPerfect Merge
Convert data base files to
Word Perfect secondary merge files
Copyright 1995 Newdorf Research All Rights Reserved
4212 North Lane, Del Mar, CA 92014
Barbara J. Feldman
CompuServe ID: 73170,216
E-mail: 73170.216@compuserve.com
VOICE: (619) 793-8300 (ask for Barbara)
FAX: (619) 793-9933
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dPerfect Merge is a copyrighted SHAREWARE program. You are
free to try this program for thirty days and to distribute it freely to
your friends and associates. Please distribute the self-extracting
archive file instead of the individual files. If you use this program
beyond the thirty day trial, you are required to register your copy. If
you include any part of dPerfect Merge in a system for resale, you
must register each copy of dPerfect Merge. See Page 27 for
registration details.
The complete shareware dPerfect Merge package contains the following:
dPERFECT.EXE -- Interactive translation utility
dPERFECT.DOC -- This documentation file
dPCONFIG.DBF -- Required configuration file
dP_REGIS.TER -- Registration form
dP_READ.ME -- A list of files in the archive
FILE_ID.DIZ -- Program description for BBS operators.
VENDINFO.DIZ -- Program description for shareware vendors
The registered version also contains:
dPERFBV.EXE -- Batch version of dPerfect Merge
This program is produced by a member of the Association of Shareware
Professionals (ASP). ASP wants to make sure that the shareware
principle works for you. If you are unable to resolve a shareware-related
problem with an ASP member by contacting the member directly, ASP
may be able to help. The ASP Ombudsman can help you resolve a
dispute or problem with an ASP member, but does not provide technical
support for members' products.
Please write to the ASP Ombudsman at 545 Grover Road, Muskegon, MI
49442 or send a CompuServe message via CompuServe Mail to ASP
Ombudsman 70007,3536.
Note: dBase is a registered trademark of Borland. Word Perfect is a
registered trademark of WordPerfect Corp. Clipper is a registered
trademark of Computer Associates. FoxBase and FoxPro are registered
trademarks of Fox Software.
Table of Contents
CREATE MERGE FILE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 1
"Enter path and filename of source data base file:"
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 1
"Enter key expression to create index:". . . . Page 2
"OR enter path and filename of existing index:"
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 2
"OR enter tag name of order within existing production
.MDX index:". . . . . . . . . . . . Page 3
"Enter record selection criteria:" . . . . . . Page 4
"There are ___ records that meet your criteria.Page 4
"Mark fields to be included with the PLUS key:"Page 5
"Want to save these parameters as a setup file? [Y/N]"
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 5
"Do you want to print a summary sheet? [Y/N]". Page 6
CHANGE dPERFECT MERGE CONFIGURATION . . . . . . . . Page 7
Default Configuration Parameters . . . . . . . Page 7
"Word Perfect version:". . . . . . . . . . . . Page 7
"Data base compatibility:" . . . . . . . . . . Page 7
"Logical values:". . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 9
"Color monitor:" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 9
"European character set:". . . . . . . . . . . Page 9
Use of the Configuration File. . . . . . . . . Page 9
REGISTRATION INFO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10
"Name of Registered Owner:". . . . . . . . . .Page 10
"Registration Key:" . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10
CompuServe Offer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10
dPerfect BV. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 11
USING dPERFECT MERGE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12
Help Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12
Using Setup Files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12
Versions of Word Perfect Supported . . . . . .Page 13
Using Word Perfect Merge Files . . . . . . . .Page 13
Network Capabilities of dPerfect Merge . . . .Page 15
Working Disk Space Required. . . . . . . . . .Page 15
Temporary Working Files. . . . . . . . . . . .Page 15
Minimum DOS Configuration Required . . . . . .Page 16
Index Key Expressions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 17
Record Selection Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 19
Troubleshooting Common Problems . . . . . . . . . .Page 21
DATABASE COMPATIBILITY GUIDE. . . . . . . . . . . .Page 22
BATCH VERSION OF dPERFECT MERGE . . . . . . . . . .Page 23
Using the Batch Version of dPerfect. . . . . .Page 23
Sample Batch File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 24
DEFINITION OF SHAREWARE . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 25
DISCLAIMER - AGREEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 25
REGISTRATION INFORMATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 27
FOR CREDIT CARD ORDERS ONLY . . . . . . . . .Page 28
BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER. . . . . . . . . . . .Page 29
dPerfect Merge
Convert data base files to Word Perfect secondary merge files
To start the program enter dPERFECT at the DOS
command line. If you are using a trial version, press any
key to pass the registration screen (or you will pause for 3
seconds). Answer each question followed by [Enter]. To
move between fields, use [Up arrow] and [Down arrow]. To
proceed without answering additional questions, use [F10]
to continue. To exit to the menu at any time, use [Esc]. To
clear a response field, use [Ctrl-Y]. To select a file from a
directory listing, use [F2]. To select a field name from a
field list, use [F4].
CREATE MERGE FILE
"Enter path and filename of source data base file:"
This is the source data base which will be read and
converted to a Word Perfect secondary merge file. This
can be any valid dBase III Plus, dBase IV, dBase 5,
Clipper, Foxbase, Foxpro or compatible data base.
Pathnames are required if your data base is not in the
current directory. The ".DBF" extension is optional. If you
enter a filename that doesn't exist or is not a valid data
base, you will get an error message. This is a required
field.
To view a directory listing use [F2]. Enter the directory path
you wish to view, including a DOS file skeleton using the
wildcard characters "?" or "*". To view all files use the "*.*"
skeleton. To view a listing of the current directory, just
press [Enter]. To scroll through the directory listing use [Up
arrow], [Down arrow], [Home] and [End]. To select a file,
use [Enter]. To exit from the directory listing without
selecting a file, use [Esc].
To use a previously created setup file, use [F3]. This will
recall all of your responses, such as the source data base
and the name of the merge file. For information on how to
create a setup file, see Page 5.
"Enter key expression to create index:"
This is an optional field. If you wish to dynamically create
an index for your data base, enter a single field name or a
compound key expression (e.g. STATE+CITY). Your
merge file will be sorted on this expression. For example,
to create mailing labels in zip code order, enter the zip
code field name from your data base. If you enter an
invalid expression or field name, you will not exit from this
field. Memo and logical fields are not allowed. To skip this
question, press [Enter]. For more examples, see "Key
Index Expressions" on Page 20.
The index created is erased before exiting the program. To
select a field from a list of field names, use [F4]. To scroll
through the list use [Up arrow], [Down arrow], [Home] and
[End]. To select a field name from the list, use [Enter]. To
exit the list without selecting a field, use [Esc].
To browse through your data base, use [F6]. Depending
on the size the file, it may take a moment to build the
browse. You can not modify your data within the browse.
To exit the browse, use [ESC].
"OR enter path and filename of existing index:"
This is an optional field. If you wish to sort your merge file
on an existing dBase III compatible index ("NDX") or an
existing Clipper index ("NTX"), enter the name of the index.
You do not need to include the file extension. dPerfect
Merge will assume the extension ("NTX" or "NDX") based
on your default data base as chosen in "Configuration". If
you enter a filename that does not exist, you will not exit
this field. If you enter a filename that is not a valid index for
the default data base (chosen in "Configuration"), you will
receive an error message. You cannot enter both an index
filename and a key expression to be indexed.
To view a directory listing use [F2]. Enter the directory path
you wish to view, including a DOS file skeleton using the
wildcard characters "?" or "*". To view all files use the "*.*"
skeleton. To view a listing of the current directory, just
press [Enter]. To scroll through the directory listing use [Up
arrow], [Down arrow], [Home] and [End]. To select a file,
use [Enter]. To exit the directory listing without selecting a
file, use [Esc].
To browse through your data base, use [F6]. Depending
on the size of the file, it may take a moment to build the
browse. You can not modify your data within the browse.
To exit the browse, use [ESC].
"OR enter tag name of order within existing production .MDX index:"
If you have chosen dBase IV / dBase 5 as the default
database in "Configuration", you can use an order in the
production index (".MDX"). Just enter the name of the tag.
Only tags within the production index of the same name as
the source data base can be accessed. For example, for
a data base "CLIENTS.DBF" and production index
"CLIENTS.MDX" that contains both ZIPCODE.NDX and
LASTNAME.NDX, you may enter either "ZIPCODE" or
"LASTNAME" as the tag name of the order.
To view a directory listing use [F2]. Enter the directory path
you wish to view, including a DOS file skeleton using the
wildcard characters "?" or "*". To view all files use the "*.*"
skeleton. To view a listing of the current directory, just
press [Enter]. To scroll through the directory listing use [Up
arrow], [Down arrow], [Home] and [End]. To select a file,
use [Enter]. To exit the directory listing without selecting a
file, use [Esc].
To browse through your data base, use [F6]. Depending
on the size of the file, it may take a moment to build the
browse. You can not modify your data within the browse.
To exit the browse, use [ESC].
"Enter path and filename of Word Perfect secondary merge file to be
created:"
This is the name of the file to be created and is a required
field. If the file exists, you will be prompted with a warning
message. The file extension is optional. If you do not
specify an extension, ".SF" is used. The merge file is
created in Word Perfect 6.0 format unless your
configuration file specifies otherwise. For information on
changing to older versions of Word Perfect, see "Change
dPerfect Merge Configuration" on Page 7. For more
information on using this file to create merge letters, see
"Using Word Perfect Merge Files" on Page 13.
To browse through your data base, use [F6]. Depending
on the size of the file, it may take a moment to build the
browse. You can not modify your data within the browse.
To exit the browse, use [ESC].
"Enter record selection criteria:"
This is an optional field. You may enter any valid dBase or
Clipper logical expression (up to 79 characters in length).
For example, you can use record selection to only convert
records for clients whose balance is greater than zero, or
only prospects from Tennessee. This is an advanced
feature. If you enter an illegal expression, you will receive
an error message. (See "Record Selection Criteria" on
Page 19 for examples and legal operators). Records that
are deleted, will not appear in the merge file. To skip this
field, just press [Enter] and each record in your source data
base file will be converted to a record in the merge file.
To assist in creating your expression, you can use [F4] to
select from a list of field names. To scroll through the list
use [Up arrow], [Down arrow], [Home] and [End]. To select
from the list, use [Enter]. To exit without selecting a field,
use [Esc].
To browse through your data base, use [F6]. Depending
on the size of the file, it may take a moment to build the
browse. You can not modify your data within the browse.
To exit the browse, use [ESC].
"There are ___ records that meet your criteria. Do you wish to re-enter
the criteria? [Y/N]"
To continue with the conversion, enter [N] or [F10]. If the
number of records doesn't seem correct, enter [Y] and
verify your responses and your record selection criteria.
Deleted data base records are NOT processed.
"Mark fields to be included with the PLUS key:"
Field names from your data base will be displayed. To
include a field in your Word Perfect merge file, use [+],
otherwise use [Space], [Enter], [Up arrow] or [Down arrow].
You must mark at least one field. Memo fields are now
supported and will appear in the field list and the merge file.
The default format for date fields is MM/DD/YY format (e.g.
04/30/90). Logical fields are converted to "YES" or "NO".
To change the format of either dates or logical values, see
"Change dPerfect Merge Configuration" on Page 7.
To include all your database fields in the merge file, use
[F5] Include all fields. To navigate between screens of field
names, use [Page up] and [Page down]. When you are
finished with your field selection, use [F10] Continue.
To browse through your data base, use [F6]. Depending
on the size of the file, it may take a moment to build the
browse. You can not modify your data within the browse.
To exit the browse, use [ESC].
"Want to save these parameters as a setup file? [Y/N]"
If you want to re-use these responses to create a merge file
at another time, (or to use with dPerfect BV) enter [Y]. You
will then be prompted for the name of the setup file. Do
NOT use an extension for the setup file -- dPerfect will save
the file with the extension ".MEM". You will be warned if the
setup file already exists. A setup file will save ALL of your
responses including:
1) Source data base file name
2) Expression to create index
3) File name of existing index
4) Word Perfect merge file name
5) Record selection criteria
6) Field selection
A setup file, however, does NOT save any of the
parameters included in the configuration file. To use the
setup file, see "Using Setup Files" on Page .12 A setup file
is required to use the batch version dPerfect BV (see Batch
Version of dPerfect Merge on Page 23).
"Do you want to print a summary sheet? [Y/N]"
A summary sheet will detail all of your responses and list
each field that you included along with its Word Perfect
field name. Word Perfect 6.0 fields are listed as FIELD(1),
FIELD(2), etc. The Word Perfect 5.1 (or 5.2) field names
are {FIELD}1~, {FIELD}2~, etc. The older versions of Word
Perfect use field names ^F1^,^F2^ etc. The summary
sheet is a useful tool for creating your Word Perfect primary
merge file. It is printed to DOS port LPT1.
In a Word Perfect 6, 5.2 ,or 5.1 primary merge file, you can
use either the numeric field names (e.g. {FIELD}1~), or
your alphanumeric data base field names (e.g.
{FIELD}zipcode~). Since WP 5.1 allows a maximum of 100
alphanumeric field names, you can mix the use of both
styles in your primary merge file. For example, if your
dPerfect merge file has 200 field names, you can use your
data base field names for the first 100 fields, and the
numeric field names for the remaining fields.
CHANGE dPERFECT MERGE CONFIGURATION
To exit from the configuration screen without saving your
changes, use [Esc] at any time. To save your changes use
[F10], or answer "Y" to "Save Configuration". To return all
values to the defaults, use [F5] followed by [F10].
Default Configuration Parameters
Word Perfect version: (1) WP 6.0
Data base compatiblity: (1) dBase III
Date format: (1) MM/DD/YY
Logical values: YES/NO
Color monitor: (1) Color palette one
European character set: (1) Do not convert
"Word Perfect version:"
dPerfect Merge will create a 6.x compatible merge file,
unless the version parameter is otherwise. When you first
retrieve the merge file in 5.x or 6.x, Word Perfect will
reformat for your default printer.
In a Word Perfect 6.x primary merge file, you can select
your field names from a pick list, by naming the dPerfect
Merge secondary file as the data form.
In a Word Perfect 5.1 or 5.2 primary merge file, you can
use either the numeric field names (e.g. {FIELD}1~), or
your alphanumeric data base field names (e.g.
{FIELD}zipcode~). Since WP 5.1 allows a maximum of 100
alphanumeric field names, you can mix the use of both
numeric and alphanumeric field names. For example, if
your dPerfect merge file has 200 field names, you can use
your data base field names for the first 100 fields, and the
numeric field names for the remaining fields.
"Data base compatibility:"
The default data base engine is (1) dBase III, a common
standard known as xBase consisting of DBF, .DBT and
.NDX files. If you are unsure of which choice to make, try
this one.
To use Clipper index files (.NTX), choose (2) Clipper.
Since dBase III and Clipper use compatible data base and
memo files (.DBF and .DBT), this choice only affects your
use of index files.
To use dBase IV or dBase 5 data bases and index files,
choose (3) dBase IV or 5. This will allow you to use a order
within a .MDX production index.
"Date format:"
The default date format is "03/30/90". To change to
European format (e.g. "30/03/90") use option (2)
DD/MM/YY or (3) DD.MM.YY. For dates like "March 30,
1990" use option (4) Month DD, YYYY. "Logical values:"
Logical values are converted to "YES" and "NO" unless you
specify other character strings up to a length of 8
characters each.
"Color monitor:"
dPerfect Merge will automatically detect whether your
monitor is color or monochrome. Some "color" monitors,
however, only display colors as shades of gray -- making
it very difficult to view the dPerfect Merge screens in color
mode. For these systems, choose (3) Force use of
monochrome (useful for laptops). If you have a color
monitor, you can choose between two color palettes,
primary or pastel.
"European character set:"
dPerfect Merge will convert the high Ascii characters from
decimal 128 to 175 (and 225), if you choose (2) Convert.
These are European characters, such as umlauts and
accents. For a faster conversion, choose (1) Do not
convert.
Use of the Configuration File
dPerfect Merge uses dPCONFIG.DBF to save
configuration parameters and to coordinate the naming of
temporary files for multiple users. This file must be in the
DOS path. If multiple users on a network are not all using
the same configuration (e.g. different version of Word
Perfect), each user must have his own copy of
dPCONFIG.DBF in his path. If the configuration data base
is erased or becomes corrupted, restore it from your
original distribution disk.
REGISTRATION INFO
When you register your copy of dPerfect Merge ($26 plus shipping) you
receive:
1) The latest version of dPerfect Merge
2) A printed manual
3) FREE!! dPerfect BV -- a command-line batch utility for creating
merge files without any user input
4) A registration key that will bypass the initial registration screen
5) 90 days of support via phone, fax, mail or CompuServe
6) Notice of future upgrades
7) A free introductory subscription to CompuServe and $15 usage
credit
8) Discounts on "Shareware Magazine" and "Public (software)
Library News"
To print an order form, use [F7] at the registration screen
or see Page 27. For more information, you can contact
me:
Newdorf Research
4212 North Lane
Del Mar, CA 92014
Barbara J. Feldman
CompuServe ID: 73170,216
VOICE: (619) 793-8300 (ask for Barbara)
FAX: (619) 793-9933
"Name of Registered Owner:"
Enter your registration name (either an individual or a company name)
exactly as shown on your registration letter.
"Registration Key:"
Enter the registration key that is provided in your registration
letter. You will not exit this field unless you have a valid
registration key. To exit without a registration key, leave the
field empty.
CompuServe Offer
FREE!! -- when you register, you are entitled to a free
introductory subscription to CompuServe Information
Service, the biggest national on-line information data base
and service. You will receive a private user ID number and
password, a $15 usage credit (up to 2 1/2 hours connect
time), and a complimentary subscription to
CompuServe's monthly magazine.
dPerfect BV
FREE! -- when you register, the command-line batch utility
dPerfect BV. This utility allows you to create merge files
without any keyboard input. Perfect for use in menus and
custom data base systems. Allows for the creation of
standard merge files by novices! dPerfect BV (Batch
Version) requires the use of a setup file. See "dPerfect BV"
on Page 23 for more information.
USING dPERFECT MERGE
Help Screens
Context-sensitive help screens are available from almost
every input field, by use of [F1]. Press any key to exit from
the help screen.
Using Setup Files
A setup file can be used three ways:
1) At the command line when invoking dPerfect (the
interactive version)
2) At the command line when invoking dPerfect BV (Batch
Version)
3) From within dPerfect -- at the first prompt for the data
base file name by using [F3].
To use a setup file at the command line, enter it as a /
parameter to either dPerfect or dPerfect BV on the DOS
command line. For example, to use setup file
ALLZIPS.MEM, start the program with:
dPERFECT /allzips
or
dPERFBV /allzips
In the interactive version, you will be given the opportunity
to change any of your responses. To continue without any
changes, press [F10] three times.
To recall a setup file from within dPerfect, use [F3] at the
first prompt in the Merge screen when asked "Enter path
and filename of source data base file". You will be given a
chance to view the directory listing by using [F2] View
Directory.
A setup file will recall ALL of your responses including:
1) Source data base file name
2) Expression name to create index
3) File name of existing index
4) Word Perfect merge file name
5) Record selection criteria
6) Field selection
A setup file will not save the configuration parameters
(such as Word Perfect version, or data format). Setup files
may be used with the interactive version (dPERFECT.EXE)
but are required with the batch version (dPERFBV.EXE).
For more information on creating setup files, see "Want to
save this parameters as a setup file?" on Page 5.
Versions of Word Perfect Supported
The default Word Perfect version is 6.0. To create a 5.2,
5.1, 5.0 or 4.2 compatible merge file, change the dPerfect
Merge configuration (from the main menu). Word Perfect
5.1/5.2 merge files include data base field names --
allowing you to create primary merge files using your data
base field names. Word Perfect 5.1 allows a maximum of
100 alphanumeric field names. Additional fields can be
accessed by their numeric field name (e.g. {FIELD}101~).
For more information, see your Word Perfect reference
manual.
Using Word Perfect Merge Files
dPerfect creates a Word Perfect secondary merge file. The
secondary file is the list of variable data (such as names,
addresses, phone numbers) that is merged with your fixed
data (primary file) to create form letters, mailing labels, etc.
To create the primary merge file (the actual form letter, or
mailing label format), use Word Perfect. Insert merge
codes for each variable field [Shift-F9], using either the
numeric or alphanumeric (WP 5.2/5.1 only) field name.
Using a printed summary sheet from dPerfect Merge, will
make it easier to remember the field names and numbers.
To begin a merge from within Word Perfect 6.0 Windows,
choose Tools/Merge [Shift F9]. Choose the dPerfect
Merge secondary file as the Data File. For ease in
creating a Form File (or primary file), choose your dPerfect
secondary file as the "Associated Data File."
To begin the merge from within Word Perfect for DOS, use
[Ctrl F9] [Merge] and name your secondary and primary
files. For additional information, see your Word Perfect
reference manual. Uses for dPerfect Merge include mailing
labels, personalized form letters, data base publishing,
directories, and lists. Network Capabilities of dPerfect Merge
dPerfect Merge will operate in a network environment
allowing multiple users to access common data bases
using record locking. If your source data base is
unavailable for shared use, you will be given the
opportunity to either retry or exit. The configuration file
dPCONFIG.DBF must be located in the DOS path. This
file is used to coordinate the naming of temporary files
among multiple users, and stores the configuration
parameters. If individual users need to have different
dPerfect Configuration parameters, place dPCONFIG.DBF
on a local or private drive. dPerfect Merge requires
Read/Write/Create/Delete privileges in the current directory
so that it may create and delete its temporary files.
Working Disk Space Required
dPerfect Merge requires approximately twice the space of
the merge file you wish to create. For example, if your data
base is 10 MB in length and you are converting 30% of
your records to a merge file, dPerfect will require 3 MB in
temporary disk space and 3 MB for your merge file --
totaling 6 MB.
Temporary Working Files
dPerfect Merge creates and erases a variety of temporary
working files. If the program is interrupted by a power
failure, or the system is rebooted while dPerfect is running,
the temporary files will NOT be erased. The temporary
files are created in the current directory, and are named
"DPTMPxxx.*" where xxx is a number from "000" through
"999". Minimum DOS Configuration Required
dPerfect Merge requires DOS 3.1 or greater and 512Kb
memory. dPerfect Merge works on dBase III Plus, dBase
IV, dBase 5, Clipper, FoxPro, FoxBase or compatible data
bases (.dbf and .dbt) and supports "ntx", "ndx", and "mdx"
index files.
dPerfect supports up to 1024 fields per data base and 510
selected fields per merge. dPerfect creates secondary
merge files for either Word Perfect 6.0, 5.2,5.1, 5.0 or 4.2.
CONFIG.SYS must contain "Files=10" or greater. For more
information on CONFIG.SYS, consult your DOS manual.
The configuration file dPCONFIG.DBF must be located in
the DOS path. This file is used to coordinate the naming of
temporary files among multiple users, and stores the
configuration and registration parameters. If individual
users on a network need to have different dPerfect
Configuration parameters, place dPCONFIG.DBF on a
local or private drive.
Index Key Expressions
Operator Type Meaning/
Example
--------------------------------------------------------------------------- -
+ C Concatenation
STATE+CITY
+ N Addition
TAX+AMOUNT
+ D+N Adds days to date
ORDER_DATE+AR_AGE
- D-N Subtracts days from date
CL0SE_DATE-LEN_ESCRW
- D-D Elapsed days between dates
SALE_DATE-LIST_DATE
DTOS() D Convert date to character
DTOS(SALE_DATE)
STR() N Convert numeric to character
STR(NUMBER)
VAL() C Convert character to numeric
VAL(CHAR_AMT)
Be sure to consider the data type of your fields when creating a key index
expression. Use DTOS(date_field) to convert dates to characterestype
suitable for indexing. To create multiple level sorts, use concatenation.
For example, to sort by state, followed by city, followed by sold date,
followed by last name and first name:
STATE+CITY+DTOS(SOLD_DATE)+LAST_NAME+FIRST_NAME
Record Selection Criteria
Operator Type Meaning / Example
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
= C,N,D Equal to
ZIPCODE="92561"
<> or # C,N,D Not equal to
STATE <> "TX"
> C,N,D Greater than
AMOUNT > 100
< C,N,D Less than
AMOUNT < 100
>= C,N,D Greater than or equal to
AMOUNT >= 100
<= C,N,D Less than or equal to
AMOUNT <= 100
$ C Contained within
PROD_TYPE $"1234"
.AND. L True if both expressions are true
STATE="TX" .AND. > 100
.OR. L True if either expression is true
STATE="TX" .OR. AMOUNT>100
.NOT. L True if expression is false
.NOT. STATE = "TX"
+ N Addition
AMOUNT+TAX > 1000
+ C Concatenation
FIRST+LAST="JOHNSMITH"
+ D+N Adds days to date
ORDER_DATE+10 < DATE()
- N Subtraction
GROSS-NET>10000
- D-N Subtracts daysfrom date
SHIP_DATE-10 <=ORDER_DATE
- D-D Elapsed time between dates
SHIP_DATE-ORDER_DATE > 10
* N Multiplication
AMOUNT*TAX_RATE > 1000
/ N Division
TOT_AMT/AVG_PRICE > 10
Record selection criteria must be logical expressions --
expressions that evaluate to either .T. (true) or .F. (false).
In addition to the operators listed above, any valid Clipper
function may be used (e.g. !EMPTY(AMOUNT)) Be sure to
use consider the data type of the fields that you are
selecting. The contents of data fields must be enclosed in
quotes. For example, if ZIPCODE is a character field:
ZIPCODE = 90304 Not a valid expression
ZIPCODE = "90304" Is a valid expression
Troubleshooting Common Problems
1) If you can not execute dPerfect Merge because of an "Out of Memory"
error, try adding the following to your CONFIG.SYS file:
SET CLIPPER=/E000
After adding this line, reboot your system and try again. I have heard of
users with DR DOS using EMS386.SYS with "FRAME=NONE" having
this problem. Good Luck!
2) If your database has high Ascii European characters, you MUST
CHOOSE the conversion option (2) in Configuration. Otherwise,
WordPerfect will interpret these characters as control codes, with
unpredictable results!
3) dPerfect Merge will not work with fields or filenames that begin with a
numeric character (e.g. "1TEST.DBF" or "1STNAME").
4) dPerfect Merge is not compatible with partial indices in dBase III mode.
5) dPerfect Merge is only compatible with .DBT memo files. Others are
not supported.
DATABASE COMPATIBILITY GUIDE
data base index memo
file OK? file OK? file OK?
dBase III Plus .dbf Y .ndx Y .dbt Y
(Borland)
Clipper .dbf Y .ntx Y .dbt Y
(Computer Associates)
dBase IV/5 .dbf Y .mdx Y .dbt Y
(Borland) (note 1)
Fox Base .dbf Y .dbt Y
Fox Pro2 .dbf Y .ndx Y .fpt (note 3)
.idx N
.cdx N
Alpha 4 .dbf Y .ndx (note2)
PC-File .dbf Y .ndx N .dbt Y
v5.0 & db & 6.5
(Buttonware)
Note 1: dBase IV or 5 .ndx index is only supported as a tag within a production .MDX file.
For a database without memo fields and no float type fields, try specifying it as dBase
III to use a single .NDX file . Also note that dBase 5 Paradox files are NOT supported.
Note 2: Conditional indices (index keys that contain filter conditions) are not compatible.
Other indices are compatible.
Note 3: Data bases with memo fields (.fpt files) are not compatible. All others are
compatible. BATCH VERSION OF dPERFECT MERGE
The Batch Version of dPerfect Merge (dPerfBV.EXE) is not a shareware
product, but is included in all registered versions of dPerfect Merge.
dPerfect BV (Batch Version) does the conversion in batch mode, and
does not require any keyboard input. dPERFECT BV uses a setup file to
specify all the input parameters. It is designed to be called from a DOS
batch file, from a DOS menu or from any program that can run external
.EXE files. It allows a programmer to integrate dPerfect Merge into a
customized system, without training the end-user on dPerfect Merge.
dPERFBV will clear the screen before executing, and restore the original
screen upon exit.
Using the Batch Version of dPerfect (dPERFBV.EXE)
To create a setup file for dPerfect BV, first use the interactive version
(dPERFECT.EXE) and save your input as a setup file. After the setup file
has been saved, call dPERFBV from the DOS command line or in a
batch file. Remember, the setup file is a required parameter. For
example:
dPERFBV /setup
dPerfect BV sets the DOS ERRORLEVEL as follows:
ERRORLEVEL = 1 Successful completion
ERRORLEVEL = 2 Fatal error
If there is an error, the user is warned as to the type of error -- and is
prompted to "Press Return To Continue". This is the only user input that
is required. When there is a successful completion, the user is returned
to the calling program (without requiring any user keystrokes).
WARNING: dPerfect BV does NOT warn before writing over an existing
merge file. Sample Batch File (dP_BTEST.BAT):
ECHO OFF
CLS
ECHO This batch file assumes a setup file named "TEST"
ECHO otherwise, the merge file will not be generated.
PAUSE
dperfbv /test
CLS
IF ERRORLEVEL 2 GOTO no_wp
ECHO Creation of merge file successful!
ECHO Word Perfect can be started with a macro that
ECHO will do the merge. The following assumes that
ECHO the macro is named "MERGE".
PAUSE wp /m-merge
GOTO end
:no_wp
ECHO An error prevented the creation of the merge file.
PAUSE
:end
DEFINITION OF SHAREWARE
Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software before buying
it. If you try a Shareware program and continue using it, you are expected
to register. Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial
software, and the copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific
exceptions as stated below. Shareware authors are accomplished
programmers, just like commercial authors, and the programs are of
comparable quality. (In both cases, there are good programs and bad
ones!) The main difference is in the method of distribution. Shareware
is a distribution method, not a type of software. You should find software
that suits your needs and pocketbook, whether it's commercial or
Shareware. The Shareware system makes fitting your needs easier,
because you can try before you buy. And because the overhead is low,
prices are low also. Shareware has the ultimate money-back guarantee
-- if you don't use the product, you don't pay for it.
DISCLAIMER - AGREEMENT
Users of dPerfect Merge must accept this disclaimer of warranty:
"dPerfect Merge is supplied as is. The author disclaims all warranties,
expressed or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of
merchantability and of fitness for any purpose. The author assumes no
liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the
use of dPerfect Merge."
dPerfect Merge is a "shareware program" and is provided at no charge
to the user for evaluation. Feel free to share the self-extracting archive
file with your friends, but please do not give it away altered or as part of
another system. The essence of "user-supported" software is to provide
personal computer users with quality software without high prices, and
yet to provide incentive for programmers to continue to develop new
products.
If you find this program useful and find that you are using dPerfect Merge
and continue to use dPerfect Merge after a 30 day trial period, you must
make a registration payment of $29 to Newdorf Research. The $29
registration fee will license one copy for use on any one computer at any
one time.
Commercial users of dPerfect Merge must register and pay for their
copies of dPerfect Merge within 30 days of first use or their license is
withdrawn. Site-License arrangements may be made by contacting
Newdorf Research. Anyone distributing dPerfect Merge for any kind of
remuneration must first contact Newdorf Research at the address below
for authorization. This authorization will be automatically granted to
distributors recognized by the (ASP) as adhering to its guidelines for
shareware distributors, and such distributors may begin offering dPerfect
Merge immediately. (However Newdorf Research must still be advised
so that the distributor can be kept up-to-date with the latest version of
dPerfect Merge.)
You are encouraged to pass a copy of dPerfect Merge along to your
friends for evaluation. Please distribute the self-extracting archive file
(rather than individual files) and encourage them to register their copy if
they find it useful. All registered users will receive a copy of the latest
version of dPerfect Merge, a printed manual and a registration key that
will bypass the initial registration screen.
dPerfect Merge REGISTRATION INFORMATION
When you register your copy of dPerfect Merge ($26 plus shipping) you
receive:
1) The latest version of dPerfect Merge
2) A printed manual
3) FREE!! dPerfect BV -- a command-line batch utility for creating
merge files without any user input
4) A registration key that will bypass the initial registration screen
5) 90 days of support via phone, fax, mail or CompuServe
6) Notice of future upgrades
7) A free introductory subscription to CompuServe and $15 usage
credit
8) Discounts on "Shareware Magazine" and "Public (software)
Library News"
9) Extra! Extra! For registered users only, the complete collection
of ASP shareware (updated quarterly) on CD-ROM. Only $25.
Site-License arrangements may be made by contacting Newdorf
Research. U$ funds on US banks only, please. Use the following order
form.
Barbara J. Feldman
Newdorf Research
4212 North Lane
Del Mar, CA 92014
VOICE: (619)793-8300 FAX: (619)793-9933
CIS: 73170,216
********** FOR CREDIT CARD ORDERS ONLY **********
You can order with MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover
from:
Public (software) Library Voice: (800)2424-PsL
P.O. Box 35705 Voice: (713)524-6394
Houston, TX 77235-5705 FAX: (713)524-6398
CIS: 71355,470
Any questions about the status of the shipment of the order, refunds,
registration options, product details, technical support, volume discounts,
dealer pricing, site licenses, etc, must be directed to Barbara at Newdorf
Research. Thank you!
************ FOR COMPUSERVE USERS ONLY **********
Order on-line and charge the fees to your CompuServe
account. Just GO SWREG and search for "dPerfect".
*******************
TO REGISTER dPERFECT MERGE
BY CHECK OR MONEY ORDER
Pricing 1- 10: $26 + Shipping
Disk Size: [ ] 5 1/4" [ ] 3 1/2"
Quantity:_________ X $ 26 $________
California Sales Tax (7.00%) $________
Shipping/HandlingQTY: ______ X $______ $______
[ ] U.S. $3.00 each
[ ] Mexico/Canada $4.00 each
[ ] Other Foreign $7.00 each
P.O. Surcharge QTY: ______ X $2.00 $________
(U.S. only -- for government agencies, universities, and
Fortune 500 companies)
EXTRA!!! ASP CD-ROM of Shareware!!
Only $25 $________
(may be shipped separately to insure you the lastest
quarterly release!)
Total Enclosed $________
Send check or money order (in US funds drawn on US bank, please)
to:
Newdorf Research
4212 North Lane
Del Mar, CA 92014
Name of Registered Owner:_______________________________________________
(list name or company exactly as you wish it to appear on the screen)
Contact Person:__________________________________________________________
Company:__________________________________________________________________
Address:__________________________________________________________________
City:______________________________________________________________________
State:______________________Zip:_______________________
Country:____________________________________________________________________
Phone: (_________)________________________________________
eMail address or CompuServe User ID:_________________________________________
Where did you get your copy of dPerfect Merge?________________________________
Comments and Suggestions:_____________________________________________________
