home
***
CD-ROM
|
disk
|
FTP
|
other
***
search
/
Wildcat Gold - The Optical BBS
/
Wildcat Gold - The Optical BBS (The Golden ROM Series)(Volume 4 Number 1)(The Digital Publishing Company)(1992).ISO
/
sdn
/
odizk281.sdn
/
ODIZK281.ZIP
/
OMNIDIZK.DOC
< prev
next >
Wrap
Text File
|
1991-08-06
|
49KB
|
1,090 lines
tm
OMNIDiZk
Version 2.81
"Cataloging & Labeling Your DiZks"
From Unicorn Software Limited
Created By:
Charles P. Schell IV
Copyright (C) 1990-91 Unicorn Software Limited
{Portions Copyright (C) 1987-90}
All Rights Reserved
OMNIDiZk is a trademark of Unicorn Software Limited
dBase III is a trademark of Ashton-Tate
_______
____|__ | (R)
--| | |-------------------
| ____|__ | Association of
| | |_| Shareware
|__| o | Professionals
-----| | |---------------------
|___|___| MEMBER
Unicorn Software Limited
P. O. Box 911
Wabash, IN 46992-0911
CIS:70272,3317
Unicorn Software Limited is 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-
9427 or send a Compuserve message via CompuServe Mail to ASP Ombudsman
70007,3536"
LICENSE AGREEMENT
OMNIDiZk is a "shareware program" and is provided at no charge to the
user for evaluation. Feel free to share it with your friends, but
OMNIDiZk must be distributed in unmodified, complete form, including this
Reference Guide and License Agreement. Also, OMNIDiZk may not be
distributed in conjunction with any other product. 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 OMNIDiZk and continue to use OMNIDiZk
after a reasonable trial period, you must make a registration payment of
$25.00 to Unicorn Software Limited, P.O. Box 911 Wabash, IN 46992-0911. Or
you can use your MC, Visa, AmEx, or Discover by calling the
Public(software)Library at 800-2424-PsL or 713-524-6394 or by FAX to
713-524-6398 or by CompuServe to 71355,470 or by mail to PsL, PO Box 35705,
Houston, TX 77235-5705. These numbers are for ordering only, order #10210.
For information about dealer pricing, site licensing, shipping of product,
returns, latest version number or technical support call 219-563-HOME or
write to Unicorn Software Ltd. directly.
The $25.00 registration fee will license one copy for use on any one
computer at any one time. You must treat this software just like a book.
An example is that this software may be used by any number of people and
may be freely moved from one computer location to another, so long as there
is no possibility of it being used at one location while it's being used at
another. Just as a book cannot be read by two different persons at the same
time.
The OMNIDiZk cataloging program is protected by United States Copyright Law
and International Treaty provisions. All rights are reserved.
Non-registered users of OMNIDiZk are licensed only to use the program on a
trial basis for the sole purpose of determining whether or not it meets
their requirements. All other use requires registration.
Commercial users of OMNIDiZk must register and pay for their copies of
OMNIDiZk within 30 days of first use or their license is withdrawn.
Site-License arrangements may be made by contacting Unicorn Software
Limited.
You are encouraged to pass a copy of OMNIDiZk along to your friends for
evaluation. Please encourage them to register their copy if they find that
they can use it. All registered users will receive a copy of the latest
version of the OMNIDiZk system, free updates and another Unicorn Software
program to try.
WARRANTY
Unicorn Software Limited makes no warranty of any kind, express or implied,
including without limitation, any warranties of merchantability and/or
fitness for a particular purpose. Unicorn Software Limited shall not be
liable for any damages, whether direct, indirect, special or consequential
arising from a failure of this program to operate in the manner desired by
the user. Unicorn Software Limited shall not be liable for any damage to
data or property which may be caused directly or indirectly by use of the
program.
IN NO EVENT WILL UNICORN SOFTWARE LIMITED BE LIABLE FOR ANY DAMAGES,
INCLUDING ANY LOST PROFITS, LOST SAVINGS OR OTHER INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF YOUR USE OR INABILITY TO USE THE
PROGRAM, OR FOR ANY CLAIM BY ANY OTHER PARTY.
The License Agreement and Warranty shall be construed, interpreted and
governed by the laws of the state of Indiana.
CONTENTS
Why...................................................................... 1
Features................................................................. 1
Concept.................................................................. 2
UNIEMM................................................................... 2
Mouse Users.............................................................. 3
Getting Started.......................................................... 3
Data Drive, Read Drive & FileName........................................ 3
Save Data & Auto Numbering............................................... 4
Extended And/Or Expanded Memory.......................................... 4
Colours & Date Format.................................................... 5
The System & Universals.................................................. 5
Sample Data.............................................................. 6
Add...................................................................... 6
Codes.................................................................... 6
Sub Directories.......................................................... 6
File Descriptions........................................................ 7
Update Files/Description/Supplemental Info............................... 8
Erase.................................................................... 8
Close 'Nuf............................................................... 8
Lists&Labels............................................................. 9
Criteria................................................................. 9
Print Outs Available..................................................... 9
OMNIFind!................................................................10
Utilities................................................................11
Default & Printer SetUp..................................................11
Quik Info & Shell To DOS.................................................12
UPGRADING TO 2.81........................................................12
dBase Compatability......................................................13
Error Messages...........................................................13
Swapping Errors..........................................................13
Technical Support........................................................14
Other Unicorn Programs...................................................15
Upgrade History..........................................................18
Usually, I take two months off between development of programs. Having
just released OMNIMeal, I was kicking back and clearing my mind. What else
does a developer do during a period like this -- what else play computer
games!
As I sat there in the Oddly-Angled Room, I knew that baseball had something
to do with the solution. It had been a long time since I'd played Zork II,
so the thrill of the game was still there even though I had won playing it
once before. So I sat swinging the club and running imaginary baselines,
but getting nowhere. So, I did the next thing all good adventurers do -- I
called a friend with a "hints" disk. Actually, there are three disks in
the set, and my friend had all three.
After I got the disks home, it occurred to me that these were the first
floppies I had added to my collection in a LONG time, so I had to break out
my label maker program, my files program, and my catalog program (All three
registered Shareware) and document them into my collection. As I ran all
three disks through the gauntlet I knew there had to be a better way -- a
one stop program that would let me print a nice label, catalog, find files,
and organize. After talking to several friends they, like I, had to use
several different programs to get the desired result.
So, OMNIDiZk was born. It will:
Read a floppy into memory and let you save the data (The saving is
optional).
Let you enter a 21 character title, 4 digit DiZk number, 3
character code and two lines of remarks up to 65 characters each.
Let you add file descriptions. You have the option of using the
same description for all files, or describing them individually using a
full screen editor.
Print out 4 X 1 7/16, 1 15/16 X 2 3/4, or 3 1/2 X 15/16 labels of
the file names.
Print out 4 X 1 7/16, 1 15/16 X 2 3/4, or 3 1/2 X 15/16 labels of
the file names and descriptions.
Print out diZk sleeves for 5.25" dizks with file names or files
names and descriptions.
Print out or write to a file complete or select listings and
catalogs.
Print out a complete list of all file information, or write that
information to a file.
-1-
Perform Find! searches on any filename, description, date, title,
DiZk number (alphanumeric), code, or remarks.
Allow complete Updates of DiZks, Descriptions, or of just the
Supplemental info.
Let you set the printer codes to match your printer.
Let you set up the colours, and select data and read drive.
Let you use Auto numbering of DiZks.
Creates a dBase compatible file with filenames in it.
Uses Mouse if available.
Supports DOS 5.00
The User can set the colours, printer codes, default data drive and data
file name. There are no 'crippled' features or options. The only
difference between the shareware and registered versions is the lack of
'plea' screens on the registered version and the clarity of the Users
conscience.
Hardware Requirements: 300K RAM, IBM graphics/laser printers, mono or
colour monitor, can operate on one/two HD Floppy or one/two hard disk
drives.
Other Requirements: MS-DOS 2.11
Concept:
To help you catalog and label your floppy disks (5.25 or 3.50). The
program will read the disk and save the information or just dump it to your
printer. You can also add a description for each file.
QEMM.SYS And Other Extended Memory Managers:
Occaisionally a problem will be incurred by a person using QEMM.SYS
or other extended memory manager. This has to do with the way that the SYS
file manages memory vs the way that the program wants to use the extended
memory (The program will attempt to use extended memory automatically, if
it is available).
On the distribution disk there is a program called UNIEMM.COM (This can be
renamed to any legal file name EXCEPT the name of the EXE program). If you
attempt to run the program and get a DOS ERROR or RUN ERROR message at the
top of the screen, use the UNIEMM utility to start the program. It
will tell the program you are using an extended memory that has this
-2-
anomoly and command the program to remain in low memory instead of
switching to extended memory. After passing these instructions to the
program, the program will start with no other commands needing to be
entered.
Mouse Users:
YOU must activate the mouse prior to the start of the program. Two Button
Users: The Left Button serves as the return/enter key, The Right Button is
the ESC key. Three Button Users: Same as two button Users, and the middle
button is the F1 key.
Getting Started:
DO NOT INSTALL THE PROGRAM IF YOU ARE ALREADY USING IT SEE THE
INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO UPGRADE THE PROGRAM BELOW.
The following files MUST be on the same disk drive or sub directory:
COLOUR.SET
FEWUSER.DAT
FILELIST.DAT
HELP.DBT
HELP.PLS
NEWUSER.DAT
OMNIDIZK.EXE
PRINT.SET
RED.INT
RED.STS
UNIEMM.COM
OMNIDIZK.DOC
Type OMNIDIZK or UNIEMM to start.
When you first start the program, the computer will bring up the Default
Set Up screen first. Just enter the info requested. When you name the
DiZk Drive, the program will automatically copy the data files to that
drive for you ! So Have a disk ready. In order to create new data DiZks
see below. About 350 records can be stored on a single 360K floppy DiZk.
First the Default Set Up screen will appear, you must make the following
decisions at this time:
Data Drive: Whatever drive you will save data on.
Read Drive: The drive the program is to read for information.
File Name: Any eight character filename allowed. Reserved names are TEMP
& NEWUSER. NOTE if you decide later to change the data drive you are using
-3-
you must FIRST copy all the files with the DAT and NTX extensions to the
new location THEN enter the program and using the Default SetUp (From the
Utilities Menu) set the drive to the new location. If you wish to create
additional data files see details below.
Save Data?: You can choose to save the DiZk file data and use the Find! and
other functions. "Y" or "N". If you select "N" at the end of the session
the data files will purge themselves and be blank next time you start.
Auto Numbering: This allows the computer to enter the next available number
when adding a new DiZk. The DiZk number can be alphanumeric. If you
answer Y, adding will take a few seconds longer: The program will search
and find missing numbers to use first before it goes to the next number.
For example you have dizks numbered 1-10, later you delete dizk 5; the
program will use 5 before using 11.
Use EXTENDED Memory: If you desire to use EXTENDED Memory answer Y.
{EXTENDED Memory is the RAM in your system from 640K to 1 Meg, EXPANDED
Memory is that Memory above 1 Meg.}
K To Protect: This is the amount of K you wish OMNIDiZk to attempt to
protect because you have it in use by TSRs, RAM DiZks, etc. If the program
already in the EXTENDED Memory does not protect the space it uses, this
option allows you to try to let OMNIDiZk protect the space for it. This is
not 100% effective. Only trial and error will tell what will work and what
won't. Example: You have a 256K RAM DiZk in EXTENDED Memory, you would
specify 256 for K To Protect.
WARNINGS ON USING EXTENDED MEMORY:
It is recommended that if you use OMNIDiZks EXTENDED Memory capabilities,
you do NOT install anything else that uses EXTENDED Memory; but if you must
install a RAM DiZk or some other program that uses EXTENDED Memory, it is
possible that the other program that uses EXTENDED Memory is intelligent
enough to protect the memory it uses. THIS IS NOT THE NORM.
Unicorn Software will NOT be responsible for destructive results from using
EXTENDED Memory with OMNIDiZk. If you tell OMNIDiZk to use EXTENDED
Memory and you already have a diZk cache installed that is using the same
EXTENDED Memory (and you fail to protect the K used, or if the protection
fails), you can crash your hard drive! This happens because OMNIDiZk may
write over the EXTENDED Memory in use by the diZk cache.
NONE OF THIS APPLIES TO EXPANDED MEMORY ONLY EXTENDED MEMORY.
Use DiZk Swapping: Answering 'Y' will allow OMNIDiZk to swap parts of the
program to EXPANDED Memory or DiZk to conserve RAM (258K RAM to be exact).
-4-
One note: The only time the answer should be 'N' is if you are operating
from a floppy drive, do not have EXPANDED Memory, and there is not at least
280K space free on the floppy for the program to swap to.
Colours:
Are as follows:
Color Letter
------------------
Black N
Blue B
Green G
Cyan BG
Red R
Magenta RB
Brown GR
White W
------------------
Date Format:
You have the following choices:
A=American MM/DD/YY {Default}
B=British DD/MM/YY
F=French DD/MM/YY
G=German DD.MM.YY
I=Italian DD-MM-YY
You can always go back and change any of these settings by using the Set
Defaults option on the Utilities Menu.
The System:
Is designed using KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) so not much information is
needed to get started. Here are a few notes to help you use the system:
Universals:
The ESC key will take you back one menu (Mouse Users use Right Button).
The box in the upper right hand corner of the screen will contain
information on how to move around, and data entry tips.
The last line of the screen will tell you what the highlighted option does.
All menu entries can be selected with the light bar, or by pressing the
-5-
first letter of the option (Mouse Users when highlited the Left Button will
activate the option).
By pressing the F1 key at any time you can have Quik Info displayed. This
is data YOU enter. To change the Info, just use the Quik Info Set Up
option from the Utilities Menu. I suggest using this for tracking the
Codes you use.
The F10 key will bring up Help for a particular item, if no Help is
availble for that item, it will allow you to enter the help index. From
the index you may select any of the topics of help available. The Help
file was not written by the same person who wrote this manual, therefore it
might help better explain something to you than this manual does and vice
versa. The file HELP.DOC has all of the Help screens in ASCII format so
you can print or view them outside of the program.
Sample Data:
There is one DiZk of sample data already in the system. It is for your use
to play with all the functions of the program, prior to entering your own
data. Make sure to delete it before you start entering your own data.
Add:
After reading the DiZk a screen will appear to let you Title the DiZk (up
to 23 characters), add DiZk number (up to 4 Alphanumeric characters), add a
Code (Up to 3 Characters), add Remarks (Two lines 65 characters each).
***NOTE: If you plan on using 2 3/4 wide labels you need to limit to
Remarks to 40 characters, Descriptions to 29 characters, and Titles to 15
characters. This is the longest that type of label will handle. A ^ on
the screen shows these limits. For 3 1/2 labels the Remarks can be no more
than 52 characters long, and Descriptions no more than 39 characters; this
is marked by the second ^.
Codes:
I suggest the following:
G = Games UNI = Unicorn Software Programs *grin*
U = Utils WP = Word Processors
D = Data Bases GR = Grafix
DOC = Documents SW = Share Ware
L = Language H = Home
Of course you can make them anything you like.
Sub Directories:
The program does not read files within a subdirectory, but it does read and
-6-
handle the Sub Directory name as a file (ie /TEMP <DIR>) and it can be
described and handled as a file. If you want to read a Sub Directory into
the system:
1. Add the diZk Root Directory.
2. Return to the main menu and then use the Shell To DOS option
from the Utilities Menu. While exited, use the CD option to change to the
read drive from the root to the desired subdirectory.
3. Return to the Drive/Directory that OMNIDiZk is in and type in
EXIT.
4. Return to the Add Option and Add the subdirectory, using the
same DiZK number.
5. Repeat for all subdirectories you desire to read.
{Note: This also works to Add your hard drive to OMNIDiZk}
Why OMNIDiZk doesn't read Sub Directories:
Memory. The program would take up more RAM, with the way DOS operates now,
than it already does. Since Subdirectories on floppy drives are not widely
used and in cases where they are treating it as a file will provide enough
capability to document them properly (ie: PRINT <DIR> 1-03-91 Print
Drivers.) I decided to drop this capability in favour of using less memory.
Descriptions:
After you Add you have the option of changing/updating file descriptions.
The program will allow you to use one file description for all files, or to
use a point and shoot menu to make changes. If you choose to use the same
description for all of the files the program will default to the Title for
this description, if you don't want to use that, just type over any
description you do want to use.
You can also enter R for review at this point. This will allow you to put
one file description for all files, then go into the point and shoot menu
to make adjustments or to omit files from the catalog (see below on how to
omit files).
The point and shoot menu brings up one screen of files at a time use the
Up/Down Arrow keys until the lite bar is on the file you want to select and
then the Return key to make changes. When you are done with a screen hit
the PageDown key. At that point you can use the Up/Down Arrow keys to move
forward or backward through the rest of the files or Home to complete the
changes.
-7-
By using the PageUp key you can choose not to include a particular file in
the catalog, it will be marked with a left arrow symbol. This does not
delete it from your dizk, it just does not include it in the catalog file.
It will still change or add the description on the dizk itself. Hitting
the PageUp key a second time will include the un-omit the file.
Change:
When you select this option the screen will display up to 32 DiZk numbers
and titles. Move the light bar to the one you want to Update and press the
enter key. The ESC key will take you back to the Main Menu and the
PageDown key will bring up the next 32 titles. When the program reaches
the bottom of your file it will start again.
You also have the option of looking for a specific DiZk number or title
(These will always be the last two displayed, so use the end key to get to
the bottom and select the one you want).
Update Files/Description/Supplemental Info:
When in Change mode you have the choice of updating either Files,
Descriptions or Other Info. If you choose files put the DiZk in your Read
drive, for Other Info you do not need the DiZk.
If you are updating files, after the files have been written to the DiZk
you have the opportunity to transfer the old file descriptions and/or
change/update the descriptions. See Add for how this function works.
If you are updating Supplemental Info, when you are complete with one
DiZk and hit the PageDown key you have the option of going to the next
DiZk in the file (PageDown) or the previous DiZk (PageUp). If you are
using the DiZk Title or Number options only DiZks with that title or number
will be displayed. Hit the Home key to exit out of Update.
Erase:
When you select this option the screen will display up to 32 DiZk numbers
and titles. Move the light bar to the one you want to Update and press the
enter key. The ESC key will take you back to the Main Menu and the
PageDown key will bring up the next 32 titles. When the program reaches
the bottom of your file it will start again.
You also have the option of looking for a specific DiZk number or title
(These will always be the last two displayed, so use the end key to get to
the bottom and select the one you want).
Close 'Nuf:
By entering DiZk Title option on the Change or Erase screens you will be
-8-
prompted to enter the title of the DiZk you wish to deal with. You do not
have to enter the full title, only the first few words, or even letters. In
Update this will allow you to view all the records that are Close 'Nuf to
what you entered. EXAMPLE: Entering "ZORK" will bring up "ZORK II", "ZORK
HINTS" and "Beyond Zork". Capitals and lower case are seen as the same.
Lists&Labels:
You have a choice of using all the DiZk info, or using a criteria.
Criteria:
You can choose to print out for specific codes (Close 'Nuf does not apply
here) or you can select individually from the entire list.
Individual selection is accomplished by choosing the number next to the
title you wish to include (these numbers are NOT the DiZk numbers). To
deselect just enter the number again. PageDown brings up the next
screen of titles, ESC Aborts the use of individual selection and
Home completes selections.
Print Outs Available:
Listing:
You have the option of writing to a file (DiZkLIST.TXT on your data drive)
or printing the information. This will output the DiZk number, title,
code, and remarks for either all of selected criteria.
Catalog:
You have the option of writing to a file (CATALOG.TXT on your data drive)
or printing the information. This will output the DiZk number, title,
code, remarks and all file info (including name, size, date, and
description) for either all of selected criteria. This will print out the
DiZk number, title, code, and remarks for either all of selected criteria.
Labels:
Description Labels:
Prints file names and descriptions for selected DiZks (The large labels
also include the file date). If the information will take up more than one
label the program will print out subsequent labels until all of the
information is printed. You can always put the extra labels on the DiZk
sleeve. This type of label is great for ZIP files since only a few will
fit on a DiZk and what is in them is more important than just the file
names. The Remarks lines for the small lines are trimmed to the first 52
characters of each line (to get them to fit) for the large labels they are
-9-
complete.
File Name Labels:
Prints file names for selected DiZks ( 4 across on small labels 5 across on
large labels). If the information will take up more than one label the
program will print out subsequent labels until all of the information is
printed. You can always put the extra labels on the DiZk sleeve. This type
of label is great for single program DiZks when what the filenames are is
is more important than the descriptions.
Large Versus Small Versus Medium Labels:
Large labels are 4" X 1 7/16". Small Labels are 3 1/2" X 15/16". Medium
labels are 1 15/16"X 2" (3.5" dizk labels). You will be given the option
of checking printer alignment before the program starts. It is recommended
that you always do this before printing. It will reprint the test print
repeatedly as long as you answer Y.
File Name Sleeve & Komplete Sleeve:
Produces a sleeve for 5.25" dizks with either file name information or file
name and descriptions. Each sleeve takes one standard 8.5 X 10 piece of
paper to produce. The sleeve will have two different types of lines on it:
Cut Out Lines (which are represented by -----s) and Fold Lines (which are
represented by ........s). All you need to do is cut the sleeve out and
fold where shown. Apply tape or glue to the flaps to hold the sleeve
together.
File List:
Will print a listing of every single file, size, date and description for
the DiZks you select. It takes a lot of space to do this! It is
recommended for use with a hard drive only. You do have the option of
writing this information to a file (FILELIST.TXT on your default drive) or
sending it to your printer.
ESC to Abort P to Pause:
These options are available during printing to help if you need to make
adjustments. They are sometimes NOT immediate, depending on your printer
buffer size and the speed of your printer. If you hit P you will be
prompted to hit any key to continue; therefore if you hit P twice the
program will pause for a second and then continue. You can not Pause
writing to a file, only Abort.
OMNIFind!:
Can help you find all of the DiZks in the data file that have a particular
-10-
Title as well as Code, File Name, Description, Date, or Remark. Using
"Close 'Nuf" you can Find! any record easily, ie enter as much information
as you remember and it will search based on your input, even if it is only
one letter.
You will first be shown a display screen to help you narrow down your
Find!, just select the desired dizk title/file name from the list and a
complete display of that dizk will appear. NOTE: PageUp on these display
screens will take you back to the previous record, PageDown to the next
record, Home will take you to the top of the list, End to the bottom and
ESC will return you to the OMNIFind! menu; use the Arrow Down key to see
the second page of a particular DiZk.
If you are Find!ing File Name, Date, or Description the file name requested
will flash on and off to alert you to its whereabouts. This makes them
easy to find in a screen full of information.
Utilities:
Indexing:
You have the option of putting the file in DiZk number, Title or Code
order.
Build For Speed:
Should be run occasionally to keep the files in speedy sequence order.
Chase Buster:
This feature should be run if you get blank records in your data file, by
accident.
Default SetUp:
See above (Getting Started) for info. To make a New data dizk: Blank out
the Default Data Drive, then hit PageDown. The program will then allow you
to enter a new data drive and new file name.
Printer SetUp:
This allows you to customize the printer codes used by the program. These
codes can be found in your printer manual. The codes that the program has
when originally distributed are for the Epson FX100. You will need to know
the code for 10 cpi (Pica), 12 CPI (Elite), Enlarged, Condensed (17CPI) and
Double High/Wide, Sub Script and N/72 Line Spacings. If your printer
cannot handle double high/wide DON'T PANIC, just leave it blank; the
program will use Enlarged for that entry. You do not have to enter the ESC
part of the code, the program will add that automatically. For example ESC
-11-
119 must be entered as "119" (Do not enter any " "s!).
Quik Info SetUp:
This allows you to change the information that is displayed when you hit F1
key. You have 6 lines. This can be helpful for storing codes or other
info you might need while in the program.
Shell To DOS:
You can shell temporarily to DOS by using that option on the Utilities
Menu. If you have not allowed DiZk Swaps: the file COMMAND.COM must be on
the same DiZk as the other programs and in the root directory and you must
return to the subdirectory/drive of OMNIDiZk prior to entering EXIT to
return to the program. If you have allowed DiZk Swaps location of
COMMAND.COM files and returning to subdirectory are not important.
Upgrade To 2.81 From 2.50 Or Earlier:
If you are using a version prior to 2.81 of OMNIDiZk this will help you
upgrade your existing data files. Before installing ANY of the programs
files:
1. Copy the ALL files with the DAT extension from your existing
sub directory or diZk onto a work diZk or sub directory and set aside.
2. Copy all of the files from the distribution dizk containing
version 2.81 onto your existing dizk or sub directory.
3. Start the program and complete the Default Set Up screen as you
desire, then from the Main Menu go to the Utilities Menu. Select
the Upgrade To 2.81 option from the Utilities Menu.
4. Once selected you will be prompted for the sub directory or
dizk location and the file name of the old files. DO NOT INCLUDE
THE DAT EXTENSION! For example your old data file name was DIZKS
and you have copied it to sub directory TEMP on you C: drive. When
prompted you would enter: C:\TEMP\ for location and DIZKS for name.
5. The program will import all of the old files into version 2.81.
6. Registered Users have the option of just mailing their old data
files (and .75 in stamps) to Unicorn and having them Upgraded for
them.
Upgrade To 2.81 From 2.60 Or Earlier:
If you are using version 2.60 of OMNIDiZk this will help you upgrade your
existing defaults file. Before installing ANY of the programs files:
-12-
1. Rename the file COLOUR.SET to COLOUR.OLD. ie RENAME COLOUR.SET
COLOUR.OLD.
2. Copy all of the files from the distribution dizk containing
version 2.81 onto your existing dizk or sub directory.
3. Start the program and when the Default Set Up screen appears
type in the word UPGRADE for filename, then hit the PageDown key.
4. The program will then import your old default information and
accept your old data files.
5. Registered Users have the option of just mailing their old
default data file (and .75 in stamps) to Unicorn and having them
Upgraded for them.
**WARNING** Failure to upgrade from your old defaults file will result in
your data files being over written by the program.
dBase Compatibility:
The file starting with F and your data file name (ie data file DIZKS.DAT
would have the F file FIZKS.DAT) is a file containing all of your filenames
and can be used by dBase without any other alteration. *WARNING* If you
alter the contents of this file, or in any other way resort it it will be
incompatible with OMNIDiZk. It is advised that you copy this file to
another name and use the copied file rather than the F File.
Error Messages:
Error Messages will appear at the top of the screen when an error occurs.
The most common errors are "Open" which means the program can't find the
data files and "Printer not ready". You will be given the choice of
correcting the problem or aborting. "Printer not ready" can appear if your
printer is not printing as fast as the program is sending information, just
answer Y to the "Retry" question to continue.
Swaping Errors:
If you get an error message in the center of your screen that says: {No
Space On DiZk To Swap or Error Writing File} this is caused by lack of free
space on your disk drive, check for free space and if less than 280K space
is free, turn DiZk Swapping option off (Set Defaults Menu). If the error
says {Memory Error During Swap}: 1. Turn off EXTENDED Memory use and retry,
or 2. Check your EXPANDED Memory driver to make sure it is correctly
configured.
-13-
Technical Assistance & Latest Versions:
Both registered and unregistered Users can obtain technical assistance by
calling (219) 563-HOME (4663). Unregistered Users will need to provide the
name and address of where they obtained the software from in order to gain
this assistance. This will let us go back to that company if they are
distributing an older version and it helps us track who is distributing the
program. The number is manned (by a human) from 6:00 to 9:00 PM EST, all
other hours by an answering machine.
*******************
Unicorn Software Support conferences exist on the following BBSs:
** The Kokomo BBS: 317-457-9100
** The RoadHouse BBS: 317-784-2147 (FIDONET 1:231/290)
Both BBSs allow first time downloads and will always have the latest
versions of Unicorn's software. Unicorn Software programs are available via
"File Request" from The RoadHouse BBS (1:231/290). You can FREQ the magic
name "UNICORN" from 1:231/290 for information on Unicorn Programs and their
FREQable "magic" names.)
*******************
Also, we monitor the Shareware conference on the following networks: RIME,
Intelec, NANet, MediaNET, and NAPNet.
The regional hub for RIME in Indiana (IBM-NET) will upload any of
Unicorn's files to the net on request:
** IBM-Net BBS: 317-882-5575
*******************
All of Unicorn's programs are also available through the Shareware
Distribution Network (SDN), and may be downloaded from any SDN location.
The Central Indiana SDN contact point is:
** Someplace BBS 317-353-9981 (FIDONET 1:231/120)
The above listed BBSs will always have the latest versions within hours of
release. Additionally, these BBSs have proven to be reliable and worth the
cost of every minute of connect time. Even if you are not looking for our
latest versions: Give Them A Call!
-14-
Other Unicorn Programs:
All programs are MSDOS compatible, run on 256K RAM, use IBM graphics/laser
printers, mono or colour monitor, and can operate on one/two or hard DiZk
drives (except DayMaster which requires a hard or high density drive). The
User can set the colours, printer codes, and default data drive. There are
no 'crippled' features or options. The only difference between the
shareware and registered versions is the lack of 'plea' screens on the
registered version and the clarity of the Users conscience.
The *Master Series
AlbumMaster - To help you catalog your Albums and assist you in printing
catalogs, listings and labels for the front of the Album. There are entries
for Album Number, Title, Artist, and up to 12 Tunes on each side as well as
Category and 3 User defined fields. The User can also define three entries
for use as producer, writer, opinions etc. The program will hold up to
9999 Albums (depending on DiZk space) and can be used to find even a single
song. It will also produce a list of every Tune you have in addition to the
regular catalogs. Multiple data field Finds! and User designed listing make
this a must have for audiophiles.
CassetteMaster - To help you catalog your cassette tapes and assist you in
printing catalogs, listings and inserts for the case and front of the tape.
There are entries for Tape Number, Title, Artist, and up to 14 Tunes on
each side as well as Category. The User can also define three entries for
use as producer, writer, opinions etc. The program will hold up to 9999
Tapes (depending on DiZk space) and can be used to find even a single song.
It will also produce a list of every Tune you have in addition to the
regular catalogs. The case inserts not only print all the tunes, artist,
and title but the User defined info as well. Find! and Criteria print
option make this very useful for the 'home recorder' or the 'store bought'
cassette tape user.
VideoMaster - To help you catalog your video tapes and assist you in
printing catalogs, standard and User customized listings and labels for the
spine and front of the tape. There are entries for Tape Number, Title,
Rating, Start Point, Star, Co Star, three User defined entries and a seven
line Synopsis as well as Category. You can find any tape by any field. The
system will handle up to 9999 entries, depending on DiZk space. The
program can handle up to 5 titles per tape, great for the home video buff.
PostCardMaster - The program will help you compose post cards and maintain
addresses on DiZk. Then you may retrieve either listings of the addresses
and cards, address labels, 3X5 cards, 4X6 post cards or Roladex cards. The
primary purpose of the program is to print post cards, and address them for
you. Post cards cost 1/3 the price of a letter and in some cases are
equally as good ie meeting notices, invitations, change of address. This
-15-
program is a replacement for an earlier Unicorn program released in 1984
called FORWARD2.
DayMaster - The program provides User with trivia, birthdays,
anniversaries for a particular date, but also allows User to include their
own information for any date. It also gives a quote for the day, and
informs User of any reminders (Weekly/Daily/Monthly/Single/Annual/Range Of
Dates) the User might have. All of this can take place at boot up or any
other time User activate the program. The data file contains over 2500
historical events and quotes. {$25}
CDMaster - To help you catalog your CDs and assist you in printing
catalogs, listings and labels for the case and front of the CD. There are
entries for CD Number, Title, Artist, and up to 24 Tunes as well as
Category and 3 User defined fields. The program will hold up to 9999 CDs
(depending on DiZk space) and can be used to find even a single song. It
will also produce a list of every Tune you have in addition to the regular
catalogs and case inserts. Find! option locates CDs by any of the data
fields or by a User defined mix of data fields.
The OMNI* Series
OMNIDiZk - A DiZk cataloger and labeling utility. Features: Reads a
floppy into memory and lets you save the data (The saving is optional);
Print out 4 X 1 7/16 or 3 X 15/16 labels as well as catalogs; Perform Find!
searches on any files that you have saved; Print lists of every file in the
data file; Allow complete Updates of DiZks or of just the title info; Let
you enter a 23 character title, 3 character code and two lines of remarks
up to 52 characters each; Let you set the printer codes to match your
printer; you can also set the colours, and select the data and read drives.
OMNIDay - Handles up to 10 Users with PassCode protection for privacy,
optional encryption of data with 10,000 possibilities per User automatic
entry of text date line and a full function text editor to handle entries.
The data file is dynamic (only as large as entries) and can be located on
any drive. Entries can be from 1 to 5000 lines with the ability to change
history (Alter Entry) and the ability to make history vanish (Erase
Entry). The Reminisce feature allows user to 'thumb' through entries or
they can print out the entire opus or selected dates. User: defines printer
codes, names data file, sets screen colours, names the opus and enters
their name into program for use on screen and in reports.
The Comp* Series
CompUser - It is a rated cyclopedia with the names, addresses and phone
numbers of shareware distributors, hardware companies, authors, computer
clubs, BBSs and more. Almost 4000 entries are in the complete database and
it is updated almost daily with revisions being mailed out every 90 days.
-16-
The program creates, edits & prints post cards, address labels and more. It
will also import new data and allow the user to change the data in the
file. Great for clubs (looking for authors and distributors), shareware
authors (looking for markets), shareware libraries (looking for authors),
BBS Users (looking for new BBSs) and the average Comp{ter}User (looking for
all of the above). All entries are rated A,B,C,D, or F for size of
operation and the way that they conduct business. This alone makes it
worthwhile because Users can avoid poorly rated businesses that have
historical problems and lack good customer service.
DiZk4D - The first dizk cataloging system specifically written for 4DOS.
DiZk4D will: Read a floppy into memory and lets User save the data (The
saving is optional). Lets the User enter a 21 character title, 4 digit DiZk
number, 3 character code and two lines of remarks up to 65 characters each.
Change or add file descriptions. Users have the option of using the same
description for all files, or describing them individually using a full
screen editor. Prints out 4 X 1 7/16 or 3 X 15/16 labels of the file names
or of file names and descriptions. Prints out or writes to a file complete
or select listings and catalogs. Prints out a complete list of all file
information, or writes that information to a file. Perform Find! searches
on any filename, description, date, title, DiZk number (alphanumeric),
code, or remarks. Allows complete Updates of DiZks or of just the title
info. Lets User use Auto numbering of DiZks. {$25} To get any of the above
titles check with your favourite Shareware dealer or do one of the
following:
1. Send three blank formatted DiZks per title to Unicorn and we'll copy
it off. {Each title takes one DiZk the extra DiZks cover P&H}
2. Send $3 to Unicorn per title and we'll take care of the rest.
Enjoy!
Charles P. Schell IV
-17-
Updates & New Stuff
2.20 Improved Update and Delete functions making them Lite Bar
menus.
Improved DOC
Fixed All Known Bugs
Add DiZk Number field
2.30 Added Pause And Abort Print
2.50 Quik Info key added
Released
3/01/91 File Description field added
Program now reads file size, and date info.
DiZkFind! section broadened.
2.60 File Structure changed to make the system 43% faster.
Released {Based on tests done with an 8088 using a data file of 100
4/20/91 DiZks.}
1 15/16" X 2 3/4" labels added.
Upgrade from previous versions to 2.60 added.
Data file now fully relational.
2.70 Added Date formats of the world.
Made all backgrounds textured and redesigned all menus.
Added a point and shoot command to omit specific files from
the catalog during Add or File Update options.
2.80 Added Disk Sleeves (2 Styles).
Released
7/18/91 Uses Mouse if available.
Support for MS-DOS 5.00 added.
Context Sensitive Help System added.
-18-