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Check Master - Version 3.1
Copyright (C) 1990, 1991 by Valueware!
All Rights Reserved.
February 24, 1991
Table of Contents
1.0 Why Use Check Master 3.1? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 Check Master 3.1 - Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.1.1 New Features In Version 3.1 . . . . . . . . 2
1.2 A Word About the Distribution Method . . . . . . . . 4
1.3 Copyright Notice, Disclaimer, Trademark
Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.0 System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.1 System Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.2 Cursor Control Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
3.0 Using Check Master 3.1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.1 Main Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
3.2 Enter/Change Checks and Deposits . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.2.1 Enter a Bank Account (When Entering a
Transaction) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3.2.2 Entering Transactions . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.2.3 Changing a Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.2.4 Adding a Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.2.5 Table Listings - "Find" . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.2.6 Table Listings - Entering a New Record . . 14
3.2.7 Table Listings - Deleting a Record . . . . 15
3.2.8 Using Standard Transactions . . . . . . . . 15
3.2.9 Data Entry - How To Get a Table Listing . . 15
3.2.10 Other Transaction Entry Hints . . . . . . . 15
3.2.11 Printing Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.3 List Transactions for One Payee . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.4 Cancel Outstanding Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.5 Print Transaction Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.6 Maintain Lookup Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.7 System Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.7.1 Transaction Logging . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.0 Other Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.1 Printer Checks and Envelopes . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.2 Command Line Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.3 Memory Saving Option With Check Master . . . . . . . 22
Appendix A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Appendix B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Appendix C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Appendix D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
i
1.0 Why Use Check Master 3.1?
I have tried a number of commercial and shareware check management
systems over the years (all the way from my CP/M days on a tan case
Osborne I). Although I normally could get the programs to work, I
always had two distinct problems:
1) The applications did not get along very well with the
reality of sometimes (or even often) needing to use the
paper checkbook (like at the grocery store) to write
checks. The programs really wanted total control of how I
wrote checks.
2) Getting around the menu system was always too cumbersome
when faced with real world situations.
For example, suppose that I was in the area of the program
where I could cancel checks. Normally I would have gotten
there by starting at the 1) main menu, 2) choosing an
account to work with, 3) going back to the main menu, 4)
choosing a utilities menu, 5) choosing to cancel checks,
6) marking the transactions which were listed on the bank
statement, which could be three or four steps in itself.
Now suppose that while in the process of canceling checks
listed on the bank statement, I came across a transaction
that had not been entered - like a service charge for
using an automatic teller machine. In order to enter it,
I would have had to exit what I was doing, go back through
four or five menus to a main menu, only to have to go down
through two or three more menus before I could actually
enter the transaction. Then, it's back up to the main
menu just to get back down to where I was in order to
begin canceling transactions again.
The result of these two problems was always the same: the programs
could not fit into the real world well enough for me to bother using
them. Then at tax time, I'd always have a huge job which could have
been quite easy if I'd had a check management system that was simple,
practical and full-featured enough to work with throughout the year.
Hence, "Check Master" was born.
"Check Master" started as an application designed specifically to meet
my personal check management needs. It was written in a rather
obscure database language and although I could get to each of its
functions very quickly, it had a rough user interface. After using it
successfully for over a year for my own requirements, I totally
rewrote it using the Clarion Professional Developer with an eye
towards actually marketing "Check Master" to people who had similar
problems with their check management software. This time, I spent a
lot of time on the user interface. In addition, I added many features
which would enhance the functionality of "Check Master" to a much
wider audience - including small businesses.
The result is Check Master 3.1. I believe it to be the easiest, most
intuitive and most practical check management application anywhere.
1
1.1 Check Master 3.1 - Features
Unlimited number of transactions. (Actually, over 2.1 billion
entries).
Multiple Bank Accounts. Handles multiple number of bank
accounts (over 32,000).
Windows-like Interface. Multiple windows open and overlay each
other as different functions are called - it's quick and easy
to use. You don't need to go up and down through endless menu
structures to accomplish what you want.
Prints Checks. The check format is completely user-definable.
Addresses Envelopes. Uses windowed envelopes; the mailing
address is printed on the check.
Standard Transactions. Simple, effective way to save and
retrieve recurring transactions for easy entry.
Color or Monochrome. This is especially useful for operation
on a laptop.
On-line Help. You'll always know exactly what options are
available simply by pressing "F1".
Statement Reconciliation. Reconciling bank statements is as
simple as highlighting the transactions to be canceled.
Reports. Flexible reporting system is designed to help you
through the process of doing your taxes. All reports can be
directed to the printer, screen or a file.
Automatic File Caching. Extra DOS memory is dynamically
utilized by caching the transaction file and its indexes to
speed performance.
File Maintenance. An elegant and fully automated process to
delete old transactions (for instance, previous year records
after your taxes have been calculated).
Transaction Logging. This is a feature normally reserved only
for the most sophisticated business applications. If for any
reason - like a power outage - a transaction is only partially
completed (in other words, only some of the files have been
updated), the system will be automatically restored exactly to
its original state before the failure occurred the next time
you start "Check Master." Just reenter the transaction where
there was a problem. There is no need to worry about the
integrity of the files.
1.1.1 New Features In Version 3.1
Since the initial release of Check Master 2.0, there have been three
additional releases, version 2.1, 3.0 and now 3.1. Check Master 2.1
2
was a maintenance update which improved a number of features which are
outlined in Appendix D. Version 3.0 was almost a complete rewrite to
upgrade from Clarion 2.0 to 2.1 (the development software used to
write "Check Master"). Most internal procedures were modified to
speed operation and/or improve memory management. These changes are
also outlined in Appendix D. With Version 3.1, a number of
enhancements have been added to make "Check Master" even easier to
use:
1. The format of printed checks is now completely user-
definable.
2. When printing to the screen, the output will automatically
stop when the screen fills. No longer is it necessary to
manually stop the scrolling by hitting a key. In
addition, you can now escape when being prompted for
"Printer", "Screen", or "File".
3. A "Find" function has been added to the Standard
Transaction table listing to make it easier to locate the
desired transaction.
4. When entering "Deposits/Withdrawals" and "Canceled:
Yes/No", it is no longer necessary to hit the "Enter" key;
upon pressing "D" or "W" and "Y" or "N" the cursor will
automatically advance to the next field.
5. Rather than requiring the user to enter date ranges when
printing reports, they now automatically default to the
first and last date of the current year. They can be
changed if the user wishes just by entering other dates.
3
1.2 A Word About the Distribution Method
We at Valueware! are great believers in the shareware distribution
channel. But we are also realists. Therefore, the shareware version
of "Check Master" will not allow adding more than 40 transactions.
Other than this one limitation, the system is completely operational.
This many records should be enough for you to evaluate "Check Master,"
determine that it's a great program to manage your personal (or even
small business) finances and make a purchase decision.
But, instead of you sending us the license fee and then we copy and
send disks through the mail, we think we've got a better and easier
way. Since you have most likely downloaded "Check Master" from some
type of BBS, you must have a modem and are comfortable with the
process of downloading software. So we'll take advantage of that. To
receive the fully-operational version of "Check Master," just follow
these simple instructions:
1) Complete the Registration Form (Appendix A).
2) Send the completed registration form along with a check or
money order for $29.95 (plus $2.10 sales tax for Ohio
residents only) to:
Valueware! Inc.
651 Grayton Rd.
Berea, OH 44017
3) Allow one (1) week, then call the Valueware! BBS on:
(216) 234-9643 (300, 1200, 2400 baud)
4) Sign on to the BBS using the EXACT name and password you
used on the registration form and follow the special
instructions to download the latest, fully-operational
version of "Check Master."
If for any reason you have not downloaded the fully-operational
version after four (4) weeks from our receiving the registration form
and license fee, the money will be returned and/or check destroyed.
By using this distribution procedure, we can minimize the
administrative process, cut down on the hazards of mailing disks and
save you the postage costs.
You are encouraged to distribute the shareware version of "Check
Master." All we ask is that it be done by using the ORIGINAL file,
"CKMSTR31.ZIP".
The Valueware! BBS always has the latest shareware version of "Check
Master" available for downloading to each caller. Any special
announcements will be posted on the BBS. In addition, all other
Valueware! software products can be downloaded for evaluation. You
are welcome to call the BBS anytime.
4
1.3 Copyright Notice, Disclaimer, Trademark Acknowledgements
"Check Master" is copyrighted by Valueware! Inc. It is distributed
exclusively by using the shareware concept. If you find "Check
Master" of value, please register it.
Although "Check Master" has been thoroughly tested, this software has
no warranty, either expressed or implied. The use of this software is
at the user's own risk. Valueware! Inc. shall in no way be
responsible for any special, incidental, consequential or other
damages resulting from the use and/or misuse of this software. Every
effort has been made to test this software and its documentation for
possible errors, but no guarantee to that effect is made.
DESQview is a trademark of Quarterdeck Office Systems.
IBM is a trademark of International Business Machines Corporation.
Quicken is a trademark of Intuit Corporation.
Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
5
2.0 System Requirements
"Check Master" is designed to run on an IBM PC or compatible computer.
It requires a floppy drive with at least 475k free to hold the program
and data files, although a hard disk is recommended. It has run
successfully with over 400 transactions with as little as 400k of free
memory (determined using CHKDSK). Time-sensitive routines have been
optimized such that performance on an original 4.77 mhz PC is quite
acceptable.
Important! Because "Check Master" opens a number of files during
operation, make sure your CONFIG.SYS file contains the following:
FILES = 25 <--- Must be at least 25. If you get a
"too many files" error when the
program first loads, make the number
of files greater than 25.
BUFFERS = 20 <--- Optional; if you don't use a disk
cache, this will speed performance
significantly (see your DOS manual).
"Check Master" has been tested and runs successfully under DESQview
and Windows (including version 3.0).
2.1 System Organization
Because "Check Master" was designed expressly to be practical and easy
to use, there are a minimum number of menus required to access all of
its functions. Basically, the system is set up with one main menu
from which almost everything is accomplished - in fact, there are only
three sub-menus (one for reports and two utility menus).
Generally, "Check Master" works like this:
a) Pick an option from the main menu by highlighting it using
the arrow keys and pressing "Enter".
b) Anytime you need to choose something (such as a bank
account number, a payee, etc.) a table listing will be
presented from which to choose, again, by highlighting it
using the arrow keys.
c) When a table listing is shown, records can be edited by
pressing the "Enter" key, added by pressing the "Insert"
key or deleted by pressing the "Delete" key. The system
will automatically not allow some kinds of deletions to
insure data integrity.
d) Default values are used whenever possible to speed data
entry.
e) On-line help is always available just by pressing "F1".
6
2.2 Cursor Control Keys
When entering data into "Check Master," the following control keys are
used in entry fields:
Left Arrow Moves the cursor left.
Right Arrow Moves the cursor right.
Home Moves the cursor to the first space in the
entry.
End Moves the cursor to the space after the
last character.
Ins Toggles between overwrite and insert modes.
Del Deletes the character at the cursor and
pulls left.
Ctrl-Home Erases the entire entry field.
Ctrl-End Erases from the cursor to the end of the
field.
Backspace Deletes the character to the left of the
cursor and moves the cursor left one space.
7
3.0 Using Check Master 3.1
To begin using "Check Master," copy all the files into one directory
(for example, \CM) and type:
CKMSTR <--- Press "Enter"
"Check Master" will automatically create and/or open all necessary
files, even recreating index files if required. You will then be
presented with the main menu.
3.1 Main Menu
================================================
| Check Master 3.1 - (C) 1991 by Valueware! |
| 2/24/91 Memory - 222.3k |
|================================================|
| |
| |
| Enter/Change Checks and Deposits |
| |
| List Transactions for One Payee |
| |
| Cancel Outstanding Checks |
| |
| Print Transaction Reports |
| |
| Maintain Lookup Files |
| |
| System Utilities |
| |
| Quit |
| |
| |
==================[ F1 - Help ]=================
The menu items will be explained in a moment. However, before doing
anything else, the first thing you should do is press "F1" for help.
Notice that the help screen overlays the main menu. This is the way
all the windows work throughout the system. After reading the help
screen, press "Enter" to return to the main menu.
An explanation of what each of the menu items does follows:
Enter/Change Checks and Deposits. This is the option you will
use most often. From here you can:
a) View the transaction register (checkbook register).
b) Enter/change/delete transactions.
c) Enter/change/delete bank accounts.
d) Enter/change/delete payees.
e) Enter/change/delete transaction accounts.
f) Enter/change/delete standard transactions.
g) Print checks.
8
List Transactions for One Payee. This is a convenient way to
look at all the transactions for one payee. From here you can:
a) View the transaction register for one payee.
b) Enter/change/delete transactions.
c) Enter/change/delete bank accounts.
d) Enter/change/delete payees.
e) Enter/change/delete transaction accounts.
f) Enter/change/delete standard transactions.
Cancel Outstanding Checks. This is where you cancel
transactions to reconcile with the bank statement. From here
you can:
a) View the transaction register for all non-canceled
transactions.
b) Cancel transactions.
c) Enter transactions.
d) Enter/change/delete bank accounts.
e) Enter/change/delete payees.
f) Enter/change/delete transaction accounts.
g) Enter/change/delete standard transactions.
Print Transaction Reports. This is where all reports are
printed. They are:
a) All transactions for a specific bank account by
transaction account type (including subtotals for
each transaction account) between specific dates.
b) All transactions for a specific bank account by payee
(including subtotals for each payee) between specific
dates.
c) Transactions for a specific bank account and payee
between specific dates.
d) Transactions for a specific bank account and
transaction account between specific dates.
e) Transactions for a specific bank account between
specific dates.
Maintain Lookup Files. This is where the lookup files (bank
account, payee, transaction account and standard transaction)
can be maintained. While these files are normally maintained
while entering transactions, this option provides another place
to accomplish this task. From here you can:
a) Enter/change/delete bank accounts.
b) Enter/change/delete payees.
c) Enter/change/delete transaction accounts.
d) Enter/change/delete standard transactions.
System Utilities. This is where the system utilities are.
From here you can:
a) Change the display: color or monochrome.
b) Change whether transaction logging is on: yes or no.
c) Change check print spacing.
9
d) Delete old transactions before a specific date for a
specific bank account.
Quit. This will return you to the operating system.
3.2 Enter/Change Checks and Deposits
The best way to learn how to use "Check Master" is by using it. The
next sections will be explained in a tutorial format. Start by
selecting "Enter/Change Checks and Deposits" from the main menu. You
can select a menu item either by using the arrow keys to highlight the
item or by pressing the first letter of the item you wish to select.
3.2.1 Enter a Bank Account (When Entering a Transaction)
Press "Enter". You will be presented with the transaction register.
It displays a number of important pieces of information which will be
explained in Section 3.2.2. The cursor will be blinking at the
following prompt:
Bank Account Number: __________
Press "Enter". Normally you would be presented with a table listing
of all the bank accounts from which to choose. However because none
exists at this point, the entry screen also appears, partially on top
of the table. Notice the message, "Record will be Added." On all
file entry screens, there will be a message telling you whether you
are adding, changing or deleting a record.
========================================
| Bank Accounts |
|========================================|
| |
| Record will be Added |
| |
| Account No: |
| Bank: |
| Check No: 0 |
| Actual Balance: 0.00 |
| Bank Balance: 0.00 |
| List Order: 0 |
| |
=============[ F1 - Help ]====== 206.9k=
Enter the information for your bank account as follows:
Account No: <--- Actual account number.
Bank: <--- Bank name.
Check No: <--- This is the check number of the next check
to be written.
Actual Balance: <--- Current checking account balance.
This is automatically maintained by
the system however, if it ever needs
10
adjustment manually, it can be done
here.
Bank Balance: <--- This is the balance of all transactions
which have been canceled. Normally, this
will be the balance on the last bank
statement. This is automatically
maintained by the system however, if it
ever need adjustment manually, it can be
done here.
List Order: <--- Because "Check Master" can maintain
multiple bank accounts, the order that they
appear in a table listing is most
convenient if the most active account is
"1", the next most active account is "2",
and so forth. The system will not allow
duplicate entries here.
To alter the list order once a number of bank accounts are entered -
for example, changing the order of two bank accounts - change the
first bank account list order to a "3", change the second bank account
list order to a "1", then change the second bank account list order
back to a "2". This procedure will not create any duplicate list
order numbers.
Pressing "Enter" on the last field will automatically save the record,
close the entry screen and the table listing will now be active. The
new account just entered will be highlighted. Pressing "Enter" will
input that bank account into the transaction register.
3.2.2 Entering Transactions
Normally, the transaction register would then fill with the last 12
transactions for that bank account. However, because there are no
transactions, the entry screen will appear.
=================================================================
| Transaction Processing Account No: 0123456789 |
|-----------------------------------------------------------------|
| Withdrawal/Deposit: Withdrawal Canceled? No/Yes: No |
|-----------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
| Record will be Added |
| |
| Date: 2/24/91 |
| Check No: 101 |
| Payee: Amount: 0.00 |
| Account: |
| Comment: |
| |
==========================[ F1 - Help ]================== 207.9k=
Press "F1" for help to see how to maneuver around the entry screen
with arrow keys, "ESC", "Enter", "Ctrl-ESC" and "Ctrl-Enter". Enter a
transaction as follows:
11
Deposit/Withdrawal: <--- You have a choice of "Withdrawal" or
"Deposit" with the default Withdrawal.
You can use either the left/right
arrow keys or press "W" or "D" to make
your choice. To make it as easy as
possible, "Check Master" uses the same
screen for writing checks, making
deposits and automatic withdrawals.
To write a check, select the default
entry - Withdrawal - by pressing
"Enter" or "W".
Canceled?: <--- You have a choice of "Yes" or "No" with the
default No. You can use either the
left/right arrow keys or press "Y" or "N"
to make your choice. Generally, a
transaction will not be canceled by the
bank at the time you enter it so select the
default entry by pressing "Enter" or "N".
Date: <--- The date shown will be the DOS system date
for the first transaction entered.
Thereafter, the default date will be the
date of the last transaction entered. This
is especially convenient when entering a
number of transactions a day or two after
they actually occurred. Press "Enter" to
accept the default date.
Check No: <--- The check number will be the next check
number that you entered earlier for that
bank account. Press "Enter" to accept the
default entry. The check number will be
automatically incremented and maintained by
the system. If you are entering a Deposit,
this automatically defaults to "DEP". If
you are entering an automatic or ATM
withdrawal, just blank the field with
spaces - "AUTO" will automatically be
entered.
Payee: <--- You could type the payee in manually, but
don't waste the time. Just press "Enter".
(If you had been entering a Deposit,
"Deposit" would already have been entered
for you). A table listing of all payees in
the system will appear. Press "F1" for
help to see what the options are. There is
a lot you can do from here, but that will
be explained later. For now, just press
"Enter" to select the first record,
"American Express."
Amount: <--- Enter the actual check amount.
12
Account: <--- This is the transaction account which
categorizes your transactions. It is
particularly useful when preparing your
taxes. It works just like the payee field.
Press "Enter" and select "Credit Cards"
from the table listing.
Comment: <--- The final field is, optionally, for any
comments you want to make to help describe
the transaction. It will be printed on the
check as a memo.
Upon pressing "Enter" for the last time, the transaction will be
saved. It will take a few seconds to complete when transaction
logging is activated (see Section 3.7.1). Once completed, the entry
screen disappears and the transaction register now contains the new
entry.
The transaction register contains significant information about the
bank account you are working with:
1. Up to the last 12 transactions displaying the following
information:
a. Date - date of transaction
b. Chk No - check number
c. D/W - whether it is a "D"eposit or "W"ithdrawal
d. Can - whether it is canceled or not ("Y" or "N")
e. Payee - name of payee
f. Amount - deposits are positive numbers,
withdrawals are negative
2) The amount of available memory
3) The bank balance (the balance of the transactions which
are canceled)
4) The actual balance for that account as of today's date
The cursor will be at a prompt which says "Find:" - this feature will
be explained in Section 3.2.10.
That's it! That's all it takes to enter a check. It's easy because
"Check Master" makes the best use of defaults and lookup files to help
you throughout the process. But to really see the ease, power and
flexibility of "Check Master," let's continue.
3.2.3 Changing a Record
Press "F1" for help. As you can see on the help screen, if you press
"Enter", you can edit the highlighted record. Return from help and do
it, then change the amount. Press "Ctrl-Enter" while on the Amount
field to save the entry, thereby saving a few keystrokes. Once
completed, you will be back at the transaction register again with the
edited transaction highlighted and the actual balance adjusted for the
new amount. Notice that the bank balance has not changed. This is
13
because the transaction has not been canceled. Had you entered "Yes"
at the Canceled?: prompt, the bank balance would also have been
updated.
3.2.4 Adding a Record
Press "F1" again. As shown on the help screen, to enter a new
transaction, press "Insert". Return from help and do it. This time,
you will explore some of the other options when entering the payee
and/or transaction account.
Accept the defaults for Deposit/Withdrawal and Canceled? fields. This
time, change the date. Accept the default check number. Notice that
it was automatically incremented.
3.2.5 Table Listings - "Find"
Press "Enter" on the payee field. A table listing of all the payees
is presented. Now type "c" and the "Find:" prompt. Notice how the
highlighted bar automatically jumps to "Cash," the first payee
beginning with the letter "c". Now type "z". The bar drops down to
"Deposit" because there are no payees which begin with "cz". Now,
backspace (with the backspace key, not the left arrow) to erase the
"z". The bar jumps back to "Cash." Using this technique, you can
find the right payee very quickly, even if the payee file has hundreds
of entries in it.
Press "ESC" to return to the transaction entry screen. The prompt
should still be on the Payee field. Now, type a "c", then press
"Enter". The table listing of all the payees is presented with the
highlighted bar already on "Cash." You can also accomplish "finding"
the payee by entering a few letters in the Payee field on the
transaction entry screen. Note, that if you enter a payee on the
transaction entry screen which is not in the payee file, the cursor
will move to the payee which has "close" to the same spelling. It
will not automatically enter the new payee to the file. Therefore, if
you want to enter a new payee, just press "Enter" at the payee prompt
on the transaction entry screen and follow the instructions in Section
3.2.6 below - otherwise, you will have to type the name in again.
3.2.6 Table Listings - Entering a New Record
You should still be at the table listing of payees. Press "F1" for
help. Once again, the "Enter" and "Insert" keys operate as above.
Return from help and press "Insert" to enter a new payee. The entry
screen is self-explanatory. If the mailing address information is
entered, when checks are printed, the address is included on the
check. When completed, press "Enter" and the new payee will be added
and highlighted on the table listing. Press "Enter" again and it will
be automatically entered into the check.
Enter an amount. Using the same technique used above with the payee
field, enter a new transaction account and input it into the check.
Enter a comment (optional) and press "Enter". The entry screen will
disappear and the new transaction will be listed on the transaction
register in date order.
14
3.2.7 Table Listings - Deleting a Record
To delete a transaction, just highlight it and press "Delete". (See
Section 3.2.10 for additional information). The transaction entry
screen will open, prompting "Press Enter to Delete". To leave without
deleting the record, press "ESC". Once a record has been deleted it
cannot be recovered, so be careful. Delete the second transaction you
entered.
3.2.8 Using Standard Transactions
Let's add a deposit, this time by using a "standard transaction."
Press "Insert" to add a transaction. Press "F1" for help. As shown
on the help screen, a standard transaction can be entered by pressing
"F2". Return from help and do it. You will be presented with a table
listing of standard transactions from which to choose. Pressing
"Enter" selects the highlighted transaction, pressing "Insert" allows
you to enter a standard transaction and pressing "Delete" deletes that
record. (See Section 3.6 for a discussion on maintaining the standard
transaction file).
Press "Enter" to select the first standard transaction. The
transaction entry screen is instantly completed.
3.2.9 Data Entry - How To Get a Table Listing
Notice that the default date is the date from the last transaction
entered. As you begin editing the fields as required, note that when
the payee and/or transaction account fields have been entered with
values that exist in their respective files, no table listing is
presented. If you want the table listing to show, blank the field (or
delete at least enough of the entry to ensure that no match will be
found in the file) and press "Enter". The table listing will then
appear. This characteristic also holds true when prompted for bank
accounts.
3.2.10 Other Transaction Entry Hints
When the entry screen is completed, the deposit will be added to the
transaction register. Notice that all withdrawals show negative
amounts and all deposits are positive even though you always enter
transaction amounts as positive numbers.
The "Find:" prompt on the transaction register works similarly to the
way that it works on the payee or transaction account table listings
as explained in Section 3.2.5. In this case however, it "finds" the
transaction by the date. To highlight a specific transaction, just
enter the appropriate date. Note that the highlighted bar will jump
to the first transaction and stay there until the entire date has been
entered.
"Check Master" presents a table listing anytime you are being prompted
to enter a value for a bank account, payee, transaction account or
standard transaction. Pressing "Enter" will select the highlighted
record and automatically input it into the entry screen. If you want
15
to edit the highlighted record of a table listing, press "Ctrl-Enter".
The appropriate entry form will be presented.
To delete a record from a lookup file (bank account, payee or
transaction account), highlight the record and press "Delete". "Check
Master" will search the transaction and standard transaction files to
see if there are any entries which refer to the highlighted record.
If there are, the message, "Cannot DELETE; Record In Use" will appear.
Check Master will not allow such deletes in order to maintain data
integrity. Press "ESC" to continue.
The check number will normally be automatically incremented when
entering new checks. It will not increment when editing checks,
adding deposits or automatic withdrawals. "Check Master" determines
whether to increment the check number by examining whether the check
number on the selected transaction equals the "Check No" field for
that bank account. If they are equal, the "Check No" field is
incremented for the next check. If they are not equal, the field is
left as is. Therefore, if you set the "Check No" field for a bank
account to "20" and begin adding checks at number "1", the check
number will not automatically increment until you get to check number
"20". If your check number ever gets out of sync, such as in this
example, just edit the "Check No" field by editing the proper bank
account.
3.2.11 Printing Checks
From the transaction register, press "F1" for help. As shown on the
help screen, to print a check, all you need to do is highlight the
check you want to print and press "F2". Return from help. If you
have a printer connected, do it and notice the format of the check.
(See Section 3.7 and Section 4.1 for more information). Press "ESC"
twice and you should be back at the main menu.
Just think, you did all that from just one menu option! Let's
continue with the other options on the main menu.
3.3 List Transactions for One Payee
From the main menu, select "List Transactions for One Payee." The
familiar transaction register appears. Assuming that you did not quit
"Check Master," the bank account number already appears in the prompt.
Just press "Enter" to accept it. (Read Section 3.2.9 again if you
want to select/add another bank account). You are now prompted for a
payee. Type it in or just press "Enter" for the familiar payee table
listing. Select "American Express." Assuming that you did not delete
that transaction, it will appear in the transaction register.
You can enter/change/delete transactions just as above. The only
caveat is that when you enter a transaction with a payee other than
the one selected, while the transaction will be saved, it will not be
shown in this listing. This is because it has a payee that does not
match the selection criteria.
If you select a payee which has no transactions associated with it,
the payee prompt will clear, awaiting reentry.
16
Note that it may take a short time to list transactions for one payee
if the number of transactions which qualifies is high (say, 50+ on a
4.77 mhz PC).
Press "ESC" a couple of times (or "Ctrl-ESC" once) to return to the
main menu.
3.4 Cancel Outstanding Checks
From the main menu, select "Cancel Outstanding Checks." Enter the
bank account number if it is not already there by using the table
listing feature described above. All transactions in that bank
account which have not been canceled will be listed. To cancel a
transaction, simply highlight it, press "Enter", then confirm by
pressing "Enter" again. The canceled transaction will no longer show
on the transaction register.
You can add transactions by pressing "Insert" and proceeding as
explained in Section 3.2.2.
Assuming that you balanced with the bank as of the last statement, the
procedure when the new bank statement comes is very simple. Just
cancel the transactions listed on the statement, add any transactions
not in "Check Master" that are on the statement, such as an ATM fee,
and the balances should agree - on the first try!
If you mistakenly canceled a transaction, simply go to the main menu,
select "Enter/Change Checks and Deposits" and edit the incorrect
transaction.
3.5 Print Transaction Reports
From the main menu, select "Print Transaction Reports." A sub-menu
will appear as follows:
================================================
| Report Transactions |
|================================================|
| |
| |
| All Transactions by Account Type |
| |
| All Transactions by Payee |
| |
| Transactions for One Payee |
| |
| Transactions for One Account Type |
| |
| Transactions Between Dates |
| |
| Return to Main Menu |
| |
| |
==================[ F1 - Help ]========= 215.4k=
A brief summary of each report follows:
17
a) All transactions for a specific bank account by
transaction account type (including subtotals for each
transaction account) between specific dates.
b) All transactions for a specific bank account by payee
(including subtotals for each payee) between specific
dates.
c) Transactions for a specific bank account and payee between
specific dates.
d) Transactions for a specific bank account and transaction
account between specific dates.
e) Transactions for a specific bank account between specific
dates.
For each report, you will be prompted for the selection criteria,
using table listings whenever possible.
All transactions with dates equal to those entered will be included in
the report, e.g. if the beginning date is 4/12/90 and ending date is
4/13/90, all transactions for 4/12/90 and 4/13/90 will be included.
After the selections are made, you are then prompted with "Printer,
Screen, File." If you select:
Printer <--- You will be prompted to press any key to begin
the report, "ESC" to abort printing. A status
screen will review printing progress. Press any
key (except "ESC") to pause the report; any key
to restart. Press "ESC" to abort the report
while printing. Press "Enter" when complete.
Screen <--- The screen will clear and the report will begin
listing to the screen. Upon filling each
screen, a prompt will appear: "Press any key to
continue; ESC to abort." When completed, the
prompt will change to "Press any key to
continue."
File <--- You will be prompted for a filename (including
optional pathname and extension). As a
precaution against overwriting any important
"Check Master" data files, you cannot enter a
filename with the extension of ".DAT". If the
file already exists, you will be prompted
whether or not you would like to replace the
file. Once a filename is entered, you will be
prompted to press any key to begin the report,
"ESC" to abort printing. A status screen will
review progress. Press any key (except "ESC")
to pause the report; any key to restart. Press
"ESC" to abort the report while writing to the
file. Press "Enter" when complete.
18
3.6 Maintain Lookup Files
From the main menu, select "Maintain Lookup Files." A sub-menu will
appear as follows:
==========================================
| Maintain Lookup Files |
|==========================================|
| |
| |
| Enter/Change Bank Accounts |
| |
| Enter/Change Payees |
| |
| Enter/Change Accounts |
| |
| Enter/Change Std. Trans. |
| |
| Return to Main Menu |
| |
| |
===============[ F1 - Help ]====== 215.8k=
The options to maintain bank accounts, payees and transaction accounts
work exactly as described in Section 3.2. Note that each of these
files can also be maintained while entering transactions as described
in Section 3.2.10.
Note, the standard transaction file does not contain all the fields
which are required for transaction entry. For instance, the date
field is omitted because a fixed date would not normally be
appropriate so instead, the system date is automatically entered when
a standard transaction is used. The Check No. field in a standard
transaction has three possible entries:
1. "AUTO" - for automatic transactions, such as for ATM
transactions or bank charges
2. "DEP" - for deposits
3. Leave entry blank - By doing this, the next check number
will automatically be used.
The other fields are the same as those in the transaction entry
screen.
3.7 System Utilities
From the main menu, select "System Utilities." You will be presented
with the following sub-menu:
19
==========================================
| Maintain System |
|==========================================|
| |
| |
| Change Default Colors |
| |
| Change Transaction Logging |
| |
| Set Check Print Spacing |
| |
| Delete Old Transactions |
| |
| Return to Main Menu |
| |
| |
===============[ F1 - Help ]====== 216.0k=
If you select:
Change Default Colors <--- You are given a choice between
Color or Monochrome. You can use
either the left/right arrow keys
or press "C" or "M" to make your
choice. Once you leave this
screen, you will be returned to
the main menu and the change will
be instituted.
Change Transaction Logging <--- You are given a choice
whether you want to log
transactions automatically
or not. You can use either
the left/right arrow keys or
press "Y" or "N" to make
your choice. (See Section
3.7.1).
Set Check Print Spacing <--- You are presented with a screen
which shows all items printed on
a check as well as the spacing
between all of the items. The
default spacing, shown in
Appendix C, is for checks which
conform to the "Quicken" check
standard layout. The spacing can
be changed by selecting the
number you wish to change and
entering the new number. The
changes are automatically saved
upon pressing "Enter" on the last
field.
Delete Old Transactions <--- After entering the bank account,
you are prompted for the last
transaction date you want to
20
delete from the file. (Pressing
"ESC" will backup through the
screen to the menu).
Once entered, "Check Master" will delete all transactions for that
bank account before and inclusive of that date. In addition, the
payee and transaction account files will be purged of any records not
referenced by a transaction.
Remember, once a transaction is deleted, it is gone forever!
Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you write those
transactions to a file, as described in Section 3.5, before you delete
them so you can at least print them from DOS if you need to.
3.7.1 Transaction Logging
Logging transactions gives the best guarantee that if there is some
type of hardware failure or power outage, your files will remain
intact and correct. What actually occurs when saving a transaction is
as follows:
1. The transaction entry is saved to the transaction file
(CKBKTRAN.DAT), including index file updates.
2. The actual and bank balances are saved to the bank account
file (CKBKSYS.DAT), including index file updates.
If a hardware problem occurs between steps #1 and #2, the account
balances may not be correct as a transaction would have been entered
but the balances might not have been updated for that entry.
When transaction logging is on, a "picture" of each file is taken
before the files are updated. If the new record is not successfully
saved in both files for some reason (such as a power failure), the
next time "Check Master" is started up, the files are returned to
their original state as of the last "picture," before the last
transaction was entered. In this way, the transaction file and
account balances always stay in sync.
The chances of a system failure which occurs while saving a
transaction entry are remote, however, Murphy's Law suggests caution.
If you choose to disable transaction logging to improve performance
and some sort of problem does occur, you may have to edit the actual
and bank balance figures to make them correct.
21
4.0 Other Information
There are a few miscellaneous features to be discussed.
4.1 Printer Checks and Envelopes
The default format used for printing checks and envelopes is identical
to that used by "Quicken." Listed below is order information from
three different suppliers of checks and envelopes which use this
format:
Intuit NEBS Inc. Deluxe Computer Forms
540 University Ave. 500 Main St. and Supplies
Palo Alto, CA 94301 Groton, MA 01471 1275 Red Fox Rd.
(800) 624-8742 (800) 225-9550 P.O. Box 64046
(800) 468-8481 (in CA) St. Paul, MN 55164
(800) 328-0304
(612) 631-8500 (in MN)
4.2 Command Line Switches
"Check Master" is set up with certain defaults which can be
customized. First, the system will beep if an erroneous key is
pressed, such as typing a letter into a numeric field. Second, there
is a built-in screen saver which blanks the screen after 10 minutes of
inactivity. Pressing any key will restore the screen. Third, Num
Lock will automatically come on when entering fields requiring numeric
entry and go back to its original state for fields requiring
alphabetic entry.
These features may each be disabled using command line switches when
starting up "Check Master." For example:
CKMSTR /B=NO <--- Disables beep.
CKMSTR /V=0 <--- Disables the screen saver. By
replacing the "0" with a number, say
"5", the screen will be blanked after
five minutes.
CKMSTR /L <--- Disables keyboard locks. Important!
Some computer/keyboard combinations
may not work without this switch.
All three switches can be put on the command line to disable all three
features simultaneously.
4.3 Memory Saving Option With Check Master
This option should only be performed by advanced users!
You can reduce memory requirements about another 25k if a DOS
environment variable is set before running "Check Master." This can
be done by using the DOS "SET" command exactly (using no spaces) as
follows:
22
set clavm0=drive:\path,128
Assuming that "Check Master" is running in the "c:" drive, \cm
subdirectory, the command would be:
set clavm0=c:\cm,128
When you start "Check Master," it will open a special file (VMxxxx)
which will act as a memory cache for certain internal operations,
reducing memory requirements about 25k. However, overall performance
will be slightly slower as the number of disk accesses will increase.
Note that the file VMxxxx is automatically deleted when "Check Master"
is exited using the "Quit" command. If "Check Master" is not exited
in this fashion, that file (which is 128K) will remain. Because the
"xxxx" is a randomly generated number, the next time "Check Master" is
started, another file will be opened. Therefore, it is wise to check
to make sure these files are deleted as they use up disk space
unnecessarily.
23
Appendix A
To register for the latest, fully-operational version of "Check
Master," just follow these simple instructions:
1) Complete the Registration Form (attached below).
2) Send the completed registration form along with a check or
money order for $29.95 (plus $2.10 sales tax for Ohio
residents only) to:
Valueware! Inc.
651 Grayton Rd.
Berea, OH 44017
3) Allow one (1) week then call the Valueware! BBS on:
(216) 234-9643 (300, 1200, 2400 baud)
4) Sign on to the BBS using the EXACT name and password you
used on the registration form and follow the special
instructions to download the latest, fully-operational
version of "Check Master."
If for any reason you have not downloaded the fully-operational
version after four (4) weeks from our receiving the registration form
and license fee, the money will be returned and/or check destroyed.
By using this distribution procedure, we can minimize the
administrative process, cut down on the hazards of mailing disks and
save you the postage costs.
If you ABSOLUTELY MUST receive "Check Master" on diskette, then we
need to charge an additional $5.00 for diskettes, postage and handling
expenses. If this is your requirement, please indicate on your
registration form what size (3 1/2" or 5 1/4") diskette you need. A
diskette with the file CKMST31R.EXE, a self-extracting file which
includes all the files listed in Appendix B (except index files - they
will be created automatically), will be sent back to you as soon as
possible.
You are encouraged to distribute the shareware version of "Check
Master." All we ask is that it be done by using the ORIGINAL file,
"CKMSTR31.ZIP".
The Valueware! BBS always has the latest shareware version of "Check
Master" available for downloading to each caller. Any special
announcements will be posted on the BBS. In addition, all other
Valueware! software products can be downloaded for evaluation. You
are welcome to call the BBS anytime.
24
Registration Form
First Name: ____________________________________________
Last Name: ____________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________
City: ____________________________________________
State: ___________________ Zip: _____________
Valueware! BBS Logon Password: ______________ (Don't forget it!)
Where did you learn of "Check Master?" (Please be specific).
________________________________________________________
======================================================================
Order Information
Quantity Price Ea. Total
Check Master - Version 3.1 _______ $ 29.95 _______
Handling Charge ($5.00 - diskette orders only) _______
Size (3 1/2" or 5 1/4") _______
Sales Tax @ 7% (Ohio Residents Only) _______
Total _______
Thank you for your business!
Appendix B
Following is a list of "Check Master" files with a brief description
of each:
CKMSTR.EXE <--- "Check Master" system executable file.
CHKBOOK.HLP <--- Help file.
CKBKDEF.DAT <--- Contains system parameters.
CKBKTRAN.DAT <--- Contains all the transaction data.
CKBKTRAN.K? <--- Transaction index files.
CKBKSYS.DAT <--- Contains bank account data.
CKBKSYS.K? <--- Bank account index files.
CKBKPAY.DAT <--- Contains payee data.
CKBKPAY.K? <--- Payee index files.
CKBKACNT.DAT <--- Contains transaction account data.
CKBKACNT.K? <--- Transaction account index files.
CKBKSTDT.DAT <--- Contains standard transaction data.
CKBKSTDT.K1 <--- Standard transaction index file.
CKMSTR31.DOC <--- "Check Master" system manual.
Appendix C
Show below is the "Set Check Print Spacing" screen. The numbers shown
are those which set the spacing on printed checks to be compatible
with the format used by "Quicken".
====================================================================
| Set Check Print Spacing |
|====================================================================|
| ^ |
| 4 | |
| | |
|<------------------------- 71 ------------------------>mm/dd/yy | |
| ^ |
| 3 | |
|<-- 10 --->Payee-------------------------<---- 29 ---->********** | |
| 2 ^ |
|< 5 >Amount*************************************** | |
| 2 ^ |
|<-- 10 --->Address------------------ | |
| ------------------------- |
| ------------------------- |
| ------------------------- |
| 2 ^ |
|< 5 >Memo------------------------------------- | |
| ^ |
| 5 | |
| | |
| | |
============================[ F1 - Help ]===========================
Appendix D
"Check Master" maintenance update from version 2.0 to 2.1 - Changes
1. When canceling checks, the highlighted bar returns to the
first record in the table listing instead of the last.
This makes it easier to cancel checks in the order listed
on the bank statement.
2. A prompt has been added when printing to the screen to
allow the report to be canceled before it begins printing.
3. When deleting a payee or transaction account while
entering or editing checks, the transaction could change
from the one you were working on to another one. While no
damage was done to the files, it could be confusing. This
has been corrected.
4. The handling cost to receive diskettes by mail has been
reduced from $15.00 to $5.00.
5. The shareware version now permits up to 40 entries to
allow for a more thorough evaluation.
6. Current users of Check Master 2.0 can update to version
2.1 simply by using the new version of CKMSTR.EXE.
7. The manual has been updated to improve clarity.
"Check Master" major update from version 2.1 to 3.0 - Changes
1. The list of available reports has been increased to
include printing transaction subtotals by payee and/or
transaction account. These new reports will make your
taxes even easier to calculate.
2. On most screens, the amount of available RAM memory is
displayed (usually at the lower right corner). This is
especially useful when using Windows or Desqview when
trying to determine the amount of memory to allocate to
the program.
3. Transaction logging is now user-selectable. On some
slower PC's, the extra data integrity protection of
transaction logging could take 6 or 7 seconds to save the
transaction. This was unacceptable to some users, so it
can now be disabled if you want.
4. The "bank balance" (the balance which shows on your bank
statement) as well as the "actual balance" is now
displayed on the transaction register.
5. A "Find" function has been added to the transaction
register so that just by entering a date, the first
transaction with the date equal to or greater than the
date entered will be automatically highlighted.
6. The "Check No." field has been added to the "standard
transactions" file. You can now enter "AUTO", "DEP" or if
you leave it blank, the next check number will
automatically be entered when using a standard transaction
for transaction entry.
7. Standard transactions can now be maintained using a menu
option rather than just when entering new transactions.
This procedure is now similar to the way the other lookup
files are maintained.
8. The screen used when canceling transactions no longer
requires you to enter "N" or "Y". This not only
simplifies the entry process, but also reduces processing
time significantly.
9. Entries which give you a choice - such as Yes/No,
Deposit/Withdrawal, Color/Monochrome - have been
redesigned to be more intuitive.
10. Numeric formats throughout the system (including reports)
have been modified to include dollar-signs and commas
where appropriate.
11. The transaction register screen now includes a column
which shows whether the entry is a deposit or withdrawal
("D" or "W").
12. The ZIP code field has been expanded to 10 characters.
13. All screens have been updated to insure a consistent user
interface.
14. The manual has been updated to include the new features.
