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GLM: GRAPHICS (pictures) LIBRARY MANAGER
by
James P. Trunck
Documentation Manual
Release 1.00
Copyright (c) 1990
by
JPT SOLUTIONS, INC.
All Rights Reserved.
----------
The following are trademarks or service marks of the
respective companies:
MICROSOFT - Microsoft Corporation
IBM - International Business Machines Corporation.
HP - Hewlett-Packard Corporation
GIF and Graphics Interchange Format - CompuServe, an
H&R Block company
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Overview 1
Program Requirements 2
Regular Verses Demonstration Version 3
Files 4
Installation 5
Running GLM 6
General Screen Layout 7
Selecting Choices from Menus 7
Selecting Choices from the Prompt Line 7
Data Editing 8
Getting Started Quickly 9
Quick Start 10
Main Menu 11
Files Menu 13
Merge Menu 16
Pictures Menu 19
Reports Menu 21
Categories Menu 26
Set-Up Menu 28
Help Screen 30
Exiting GLM 30
Concluding remarks and information 31
Warranty and version information 32
APPENDICES
A - File Names and Extension Usage 33
B - Viewing and Quality Rating Codes 34
C - ASCII Layout Format 35
D - MS Basic Layout Format 36
E - Picture Layout Classification Codes 37
GLM Page 1
-------------------------------------------------------------------
========
OVERVIEW
========
Graphics Library Manager, or GLM, is a single program to manage
one or more databases containing information about graphics
picture files. All of the key information you may need to know
about a picture is maintained. Each database is maintained as a
single file containing the data in various tables and all of the
ISAM (indexed sequential access management) indices.
Four indices are maintained for viewing, manipulating, and
reporting of the graphic picture files; they are: name (alpha)
order, file size order, file date order, and none - indexing off.
RECORDS CAN BE ADDED TO THE DATABASE IN A VARIETY OF WAYS,
INCLUDING READING EXISTING DIRECTORIES WHERE YOUR PICTURE FILES
ARE LOCATED TO AMASS THE BASIC FILE INFORMATION AUTOMATICALLY.
IN THE CASE OF GIF PICTURES, THE RESOLUTION AND PALETTE
INFORMATION MAY BE AUTOMATICALLY ASCERTAINED AS WELL. YOU CAN BE
USING GLM ALMOST IMMEDIATELY WITH BASIC INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR
ENTIRE PICTURE COLLECTION IN A GLM DATABASE!
Also, information can be read from ASCII files (in the proper
order and formatting) to automatically build database records,
and from other programs (providing the field order and format
agree with GLM's requirements). And of course, records can be
manually entered. Every effort has been made to make it as
effortless as possible to get your GLM database(s) filled quickly
and easily.
Every field of information maintained can be edited. There are
no hidden or "program" fields. And all important information
about a picture is maintain; the fields include:
File name and File Extension
File size
File date
Description of the picture
Author of the picture
Location where store in your library
Source of file (where acquired from) and acquisition date
picture's horizontal and vertical resolution in pixels
(GIF's only) and palette number of colors, together
with a code to signify it is a color or B&W palette
Five point grading scale for quality of the picture
Five point rating scale for the viewing rating of the picture
28 categories to group pictures within
Screen filling and position coding system
GLM Page 2
-------------------------------------------------------------------
A variety of reports are included, to provide summaries as well
as lists. Reports can be viewed in various sorted orders, with a
great deal of flexibility in selection criteria. For instance,
the database can be listed in file name order, listing only those
files that begin with the letter "D" through "G". If the
indexing is set to file sizes, all files in the file size range
of 100,000 to 156,250 bytes could be listed, or if the date index
is selected, all files with a file date of 03/1/90 through
4/15/90 could be listed. Summary reports are available as well,
summarizing all files with the letter they begin with, or by the
categories that you have defined.
The set-up option from within the program (and always available)
allows you to store the drives and paths where your pictures are
located, the databases are stored, where back-up files should be
placed, etc. Temporary changes may be made while the program
operates without permanently changing the default values you have
defined.
You may also view your picture files directly from inside of GLM
by using your favorite viewing program. As you view a database
record, you may select the view option, which causes GLM to run
your favorite viewing program telling it the name from the
current picture's record. When you are done viewing the picture
and terminate the viewing program, control is returned to GLM
exactly where you left.
====================
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
====================
GLM requires 640K of RAM, a color monitor, and either (1) a hard
disk or (2) two floppy disk drives. An IBM compatable 286 or 386
computer is recommended.
Reports are printed in 80 columns maximum, and are formatted for
standard 8.5" x 11" paper. All reports may be sent to the screen
or a printer. The printer must be connected to LPT1:. All
reports' margins have been designed to print with a HP laserjet
printer as well.
The program will occupy about 291K of disk space. The initial
database will be 65K, and the system information file will have
a file length of 212 bytes.
GLM Page 3
-------------------------------------------------------------------
==========================
REGULAR VERSE DEMO VERSION
==========================
The regular version and demonstration version are nearly
identical; the differences are:
The shareware demonstration version permits only 24 records
in the database, and only a single pre-named database. You
cannot create and use differently named databases. This
version may be freely copied, duplicated and distributed as
outlined herein. The intent is simple - you cannot
appreciate the program until you try it, and the more people
that do, the better! We are confident they will purchase
the regular GLM version after previewing the demo version.
Please feel free to distribute the demonstration version,
with all of its associated files, to other BBS systems, your
friends, and any other potential purchasers.
The regular version of GLM is the full featured, licensed,
version, without any of the above limitations. Any number
of records may be maintained, limited only by your disk
space. You may name and create as many different databases
as you wish. It costs money and is licensed to users. It
may not be copied nor duplicated nor distributed without the
expressed written consent of JPT Solutions, Inc.
In this manual, GLM will be the general reference. The demo
version will work exactly the same, except for above stated
limitations. When some difference needs to be stated, it will
be.
GLM Page 4
-------------------------------------------------------------------
=====
FILES
=====
The files included in the distribution are set forth in Appendix
C. Review the files, their file extensions, and purposes at this
time.
The program is named GLM.EXE.
The documentation manual is named MANUAL.DOC.
An empty database will have an initial file size of 64K with
about 29K of that amount available for records. As more space is
needed in the database, the database will increase in 32K
increments with about 28K of each 32K available for records. GLM
databases end with the file extension of "GLM", i.e.,
"database.GLM". Please note that when GLM allocates file space,
it does not mean that space has been filled with records;
initially, it is only "preparing it for records" per se.
A file containing paths, your viewer's name, etc. is maintained
so this information does not have to be entered every time you
run the program. This file's name is GLMINFO.GLM. It is
automatically created the first time you run GLM and all paths
used by the program are set to the current default path. It is
suggested you place GLM in its own sub-directory and run it with
that sub-directory being the current default sub-directory.
Several other files may be created, or used by GLM, at your
option. The filename must be the same as the database you are,
or intend on, using. The file extension will vary; the ones used
by the program are:
.GLB - backed-up copy of the database (a duplicate).
.MBF - records extracted from the database in Microsoft
Basic Format.
.ASC - records extracted from the database in ASCII, record
delimited format.
.GLM - actual database files.
Appendix A lists all filenames and extensions used by GLM.
GLM Page 5
-------------------------------------------------------------------
============
INSTALLATION
============
Installing GLM is easy; it merely requires copying the GLM.EXE
program to your hard disk or another floppy disk as a working
copy« Neither GLM, or the shareware version GLM, are copy
protected.
Copy GLM.EXE from the distribution diskette to the hard
drive and sub-directory of your choice as a working copy of
the program. Creating a separate sub-directory for GLM is
recommended. GLM may be run from a floppy diskette, but it
is not recommended; however, if you wish to do so, copy
GLM.EXE from the distribution diskette to another floppy
diskette. Do not use the distribution diskette.
Store the distribution diskette in a safe place after the
working copy has been prepared.
Installation is complete.
GLM Page 6
-------------------------------------------------------------------
===========
RUNNING GLM
===========
Switch to the drive, and sub-directory, where the working copy of
GLM is now located. It is important you are always in the
drive/path where the working copy is located when you run the
program. This is because the parameters file, which GLM looks at
when it begins execution, is presumed to be in the active default
directory.
To run GLM, simple type "GLM" at your DOS prompt and press the
[ENTER] key. GLM will load and display its title page screen.
Press the [SPACE BAR] to remove the title page and bring up the
program's Main Menu.
Select the activities you desire from the Main Menu and sub-menus.
When you desire to leave GLM, select "QUIT" from the Main Menu.
After pressing the [ENTER] key, you will be returned to the DOS
prompt. Do not "break" out of the program; loss of data, or the
complete corruption of your database, may result!
The first time you run GLM the program will tell you it could not
find the GLM System file, AND that one has been created. This
message will appear as you leave the title page and before the
Main Menu appears. This is OK. The required system parameters
file has been automatically created for you (its contents may be
edited in the "SET-UP" choice from the Main Menu). This message
will not appear in subsequent runs of GLM, unless GLM's drive and
sub-directory is not the default drive/directory when you start
GLM.
GLM Page 7
-------------------------------------------------------------------
=====================
GENERAL SCREEN LAYOUT
=====================
All of the screens of GLM have a similar layout. Menus are
presented on the top three lines of each screen (report screens
excluded). The bottom line (line 25) is used for prompts, and
particular questions the program needs to ask you. The remaining
middle portion of the screen is used for data display.
============================
SELECTING CHOICES FROM MENUS
============================
Menu choices are selected by moving the [LEFT ARROW] or [RIGHT
ARROW] keys until the desired choice is highlighted. Either
arrow key may be pressed repeatedly to arrive at the desired
choice. The menus are "wrap arounds", i.e., when the arrow passes
the last choice in a given direction, it highlights the one at
the opposite end. Also, menu choices may be selected by pressing
the key that corresponds to the first capitalized letter in a
menu choice. Doing so will immediately highlight the respective
choice. Every choice within a given menu has a different first
capitalized letter.
Once highlighted the choice is then implemented by pressing the
[ENTER] key. A choice will not commence until the [ENTER] key is
pressed.
======================================
SELECTING CHOICES FROM THE PROMPT LINE
======================================
The prompt line is the very bottom line of the CRT screen. It is
used to display warnings or messages to the user, and to ask for
decisions on the user's part. A prompt will tell you which key
to press; the key or the choices will be enclosed in brackets
"[]"'s, i.e., the enter key will be expressed as "[ENTER]" and
the space bar would be "[SPACE BAR]".
When a question is posed to the user, the key press choices will
be listed inside of brackets as well. If more than one choice is
available, they will be separated by commas or slashes.
Unlike Menu choices, pressing a key in response to a Prompt line
question or message, will cause the immediate implementation of
your choice. Pressing [ENTER] is not necessary nor should you do
it. Invalid key presses in response to a question or prompt will
cause the computer to beep; the prompt will remain until you
press a valid key press choice.
GLM Page 8
-------------------------------------------------------------------
============
DATA EDITING
============
The fields of information in each record may need to be edited,
new records added manually, information for searches entered, and
paths changed, etc. Entering or changing any of these fields of
information is considered data entering.
When multiple fields can be entered or changed, such as when
entering a new picture record, or editing an existing picture
record, the [UP ARROW] key will move the cursor to the preceding
field, and the [ENTER] or [DOWN ARROW] keys will move the cursor
to the next field of information. Pressing the [ESC] key will
terminate editing of multiple fields.
Within fields, the [HOME] key will place the cursor at the
beginning of that field, and the [END] key will place the cursor
at the end of that field. The [BACKSPACE] and [DELETE] keys will
remove characters as their names imply. The [INSERT] key toggles
between insertion of letters within a field and typeover of
letters in a field.
Pressing [ENTER] will always terminate the editing of a
particular field. When only one field may be edited, control
will return to the program to continue on. When multiple fields
may be edited, pressing [ENTER] moves the cursor to the beginning
of the next field; [ESC] must be pressed to terminate editing
multiple fields and return control to the program.
GLM Page 9
-------------------------------------------------------------------
=======================
GETTING STARTED QUICKLY
=======================
GLM is distributed with a sample fill file with about 12 records.
This file can quickly and easily be turned into a database, and
it is suggested this be done, so you can see how GLM works.
While this documentation manual explains how to do this in
detail, perform the following steps to get started. It is assumed
you are in the GLM sub-directory with the program and all
distribution files copied to it. Begin by running GLM, then:
1. At the Title Page, press [SPACE BAR] to begin.
2. At the Main Menu, select FILES and press enter. You
will then be in the FILES MENU.
3. Select CREATENEW and press [ENTER] twice. The default
file name will have appeared in the filename space and
a new database will have been created. It has no
records in it.
4. Select FILL from the FILES MENU and press [ENTER]. You
will be presented with the FILLING MENU.
5. Select BASIC and press [ENTER].
6. Select EXECUTE and the database will be filled from the
fill file (GLMPIXS.MSF) on the distribution diskette.
7. Select QUIT from the FILLING MENU and you will be
returned to the FILES MENU.
8. Select QUIT from the FILES MENU and press [ENTER]; you
will be returned to the MAIN MENU.
9. Select PICTURES or REPORTS to view the records in your
new database (GLMPIXS).
10. When you are done, select EXIT from the MAIN MENU, and
press [ENTER] twice to return to the DOS prompt.
GLM Page 10
-------------------------------------------------------------------
==============
QUICK START-UP
==============
Although you could have skipped step 10 on the previous page and
stayed in the GLM program, this was the best time to demonstrate
the quick start-up feature. Now start the program again, and
perform the following steps to see how quickly you can be inside
of your database. The database uses the default name "GLMPIXS",
which was created in step 3 on the previous page. It will be
used in the following example.
Run the program and at the Title Page's prompt to "Press [SPACE
BAR] to continue", instead slowly press the [ENTER] key FIVE
times. The program automatically assumes typical key presses
for the initial use of the program. What will happen is (1) the
Main Menu is displayed, (2) the Files Menu is selected, (3) Open
is selected from the Files Menu, (4) the default file name is
used, and (5) Exit was selected after the database opened, and
you were then returned back to the Main Menu, with "Pictures"
now displayed. Pictures would be you next logical choice if you
wished to look at records, etc.
That's how simple it is to get your database open and ready for
use! You may make those five [ENTER] key presses as fast
as you like - the program will catch up. Remember, you cannot
accidentally do much, if any damage. The menu require the
pressing of the [ENTER] key to execute your choice, and serious
actions require an affirmative response to a specific prompt.
"NO" or [ESC] will get you out of those "serious" situations,
even if you do not understand what may happen - choose them if
you are unsure.
Also please remember, while some of the program's most advanced
and powerful features are designed just for use with GIF
pictures, the vast majority of the features and overall use of
the program will work for any picture format - MAC, PCX, etc.
GLM is the picture information database program.
GLM Page 11
-------------------------------------------------------------------
=========
MAIN MENU
=========
All activities stem from selections in the Main Menu. This menu
is presented after the title page has been displayed, and it is
the point from which the user should exit the program. Each item
in the Main Menu represents a group of related tasks that the
program performs. The choices are arranged as they typically
would be used during a session, i.e., from left to right. The
choices are:
FILES - Selecting this option will cause the File
Menu to appear. FILES is where databases are
opened, created, the database directory may
be examined, database records may be
extracted into other files or filled from
other files, and the database is backed-up.
MERGE - Selecting this option will cause the Merge
Menu to be display. MERGE is where the
database may be automatically filled from
reading directories where picture files are
located. The entries are held in a temporary
file so they may be edited before merging
them into the active database. Various input
options (from the directory) and output
options (to the database) may be selected.
This option cannot be executed until a
database file has been opened.
PICTURES - Selecting this option will cause the PICTURES
Menu to be displayed. PICTURES is where
individual records are added, edited,
deleted, and viewed, as well as calling your
favorite viewing program to display a
picture. This option cannot be executed
until a database has been opened.
REPORTS - Selecting this option will cause the REPORTS
Menu to be displayed. REPORTS options
include selecting the report of your choice,
whether it will be displayed on the screen or
your printer, the range of the records to be
used, and the indexing method desired. This
option cannot be executed until a database
has been opened.
GLM Page 12
-------------------------------------------------------------------
MAIN MENU - Continued
CATEGORIES - Selecting this option will cause the
CATEGORIES Menu to be displayed. Every
database has a separate set of categories.
This option displays the categories and
allows them to be edited.
SET-UP - Selecting this option will cause the SET-UP
Menu to be displayed. SET-UP is where the
various drive/paths may be set, the default
database's name, and the viewer's name are
maintained. The GLMINFO.GLM file is updated
from this menu.
HELP - Display information on the general screen
layout, and how to select items from menus.
QUIT - Command to choose when the user desires to
quit, exit the program and return to DOS.
All database buffers are written to disk and
the database will be closed before the actual
exit to DOS occurs.
GLM Page 13
-------------------------------------------------------------------
==========
FILES MENU
==========
This menu must be select at least once each session - to open the
database file you with which you wish to work. After a file has
been opened, the "QUIT" option will be automatically highlighted.
The program automatically assumes you wish to return to the MAIN
MENU after opening a program. Options in the menu also allow you
to dump the contents of the database in ASCII or MS Basic format
to separate files, with the view that you may wish to manipulate
the information with other programs, such as word processors, etc.
Similarly, the menu allows you to read pre-formatted ASCII or MS
Basic formatted files into your database. You may automatically
back-up your database from this menu, and look at directories as
well. And last, databases are created from this menu.
Do not use the FILL (except as requested in the GETTING STARTED
section of this documentation) or EXTRACT options with the demo
version of the software, as the required file layouts are not
given in the demo version; incorrectly laid out files will corrupt
the database data records.
PATH - Selecting this option permits you to change
the path that is stated in the path box. You
may change the path with the SETUP option
from the MAIN MENU as well. Changes here
will not be permanent. You cannot change the
database path when a database is open.
OPEN - Select this option to open a database for
use. The first time you select this option
after starting the program, GLM will
insert the default database name into the
space. The default file name will not be
inserted on second or subsequent database
openings during a session. The database in
the path specified will be opened. If the
database does not exist in the given path, an
error message will be displayed. If the
database exists, it will be opened, and the
current number of picture records will be
indicated.
GLM Page 14
-------------------------------------------------------------------
FILES MENU - continued
CREATENEW - Use this option to create a new database. If
another database is opened, you will be asked
if it may be closed first; answer "yes" to
proceed. If you answer "no", creating a new
database will cease. Insert the desired name
for the database. It will be checked to see
if that filename already exists in the given
path; if not, the database will be created.
This option must be used to create a
database. The program will not overwrite an
existing database will a new, blank database.
The only way to delete an existing database
is from the DOS command prompt; the program
has NO facilities to erase an existing
database.
DIRECTORY - Select this option when you wish to review
the directory at the given path. You will be
prompted if you wish to view all files in
that directory, or just the ones with the GLM
file extension for it's databases. Select
your response or press [esc] to not display a
directory listing. The listing will appear
in the data area of the screen; it is
unsorted. If it will take more viewing space
than available, you will be prompted to press
the [SPACE BAR] to view more or the rest of
the directory's entries. Only file names are
presented.
FILL - Selecting this options allows you to
automatically add records to the open
database from an outside source - an ASCII
file or MS basic formatted data file. Either
file must be in the prescribed order (see
appendix). Using this option allows you to
transfer existing lists into GLM, eliminating
the need to key in entire records of
information. The input Fill file must have
the same filename as the database filename in
use, and the appropriate file extension which
denotes the type of file (.ASC or .MBF).
You will get very strange results if you have
not set up the input files correctly. A menu
will be presented upon selecting this option,
asking you which format the Fill file will be
in. You then can chose to execute (fill the
database) or to quit and return to Files Menu.
GLM Page 15
-------------------------------------------------------------------
FILES MENU - Continued
EXTRACT - This option is the reverse of the FILL
option. You may extract the database records
in either ASCII or MS Basic format, which
will be in the forms outlined in the
appendix. The data may then be processed
with other software. Selecting EXTRACT will
present the FORMAT MENU, from which you
select the format, then execute the extract
or quit back to the FILES MENU. All records
will be extracted into an ASCII or MS Basic
formatted file, bearing the same file name as
the database, with the appropriate (.ASC or
MBF) file extension.
BACKUP - Selecting this option will create a back-up
of your database in the "Back-up" path
(defined in the MAIN MENU / SET-UP / PATHS /
BACK-UP option. The backed-up duplicate copy
of the entire database file will have the
back-up extension on it. It will be the same
size as the present file, so be sure there is
sufficient space for it at the back-up
location. The program cannot recover from an
"insufficient disk space" DOS error.
EXIT - This option will return you to the MAIN MENU.
GLM Page 16
-------------------------------------------------------------------
==========
MERGE MENU
==========
The function's purpose is to automatically read directories, put
the directory information into a mini internal database file,
allow you to edit these picture records, and then insert them
into the active database. This one of the fastest ways to build
basic records about your picture library. For GIF pictures, the
resolution and palette information may be automatically obtained
as well as the basic directory information. The options allow
you control the records that will be built as the directory is
read, and which records from the mini-database will be added to
the active database. Each mini database record may be edited to
provide all the information for a database record, so when it is
merged into the active database, it will be a complete full
record.
Additionally, the VIEW option allows you to view the actual
picture in that directory (providing you have installed an
appropriate view program). This is a very helpful aid to fill
the various fields of a record.
Usage is basically from a left choice to right choice basis for a
session. To start over, merely start with the left choice in the
menu and proceed again to the right. Each GETDIR erases the
contents of the "current" mini database and replaces it with the
current directory's contents. Do not start over until you have
saved any prior directory read in and edited and put the final
records into the active database via the MERGE command (assuming
you did wish to merge some or all of the entries into the
database).
The menu choices and there functions are:
PATH - This option allows you to change the
path displayed in the top box in the
data area of the screen. This is the
picture path, where directories and
pictures will be read from and the
information obtained. It may be changed
with this option on a temporary basis
(the duration of the program's run), or
permanently changed in the MAIN MENU -
SETUP option.
GLM Page 17
-------------------------------------------------------------------
MERGE MENU - Continued
INPUTOPTIONS - This option allows you to set the three
input selection criteria (left box in data
area). The input options determine which
entries in the directory will be read, etc.
You will be prompted with the appropriate
choices to respond to each criteria. Each
time you select this menu option, all three
criteria must be chosen. To leave a choice
"as is", press the [ENTER] key, and it will
not change.
REVIEWDIR - This option works the same as the DIRECTORY
option in the FILE MENU. It allows the
directory at the given path to be displayed.
GETFILES - This option does the actual work of
reading the directory, and acting per the
input options. A small box will appear
at the bottom of the data area, indicating
which file is being read and if a picture's
resolution is being obtained, etc. NOTE:
The directory cannot have more than 256
directory entries in it.
EDIT/VIEW - Selecting this option will bring up an
editing menu, to allow you to browse
through the entries, and edit or delete
them as you please. The VIEW option
allows you to view the picture currently
displayed in the record area, providing
you have an appropriate viewing program
installed. "FIRST, PREVIOUS, GET, NEXT
and LAST" are positioning commands, to
position the file pointer and display
the respective record. "GET" requires a
filename and file extension be given at
the prompt.
OUTPUTOPTIONS - Output options determine which records
from the mini database will be inserted
into the active database when MERGE is
executed. All three criteria must be
answered when this option is selected.
Press [ENTER] if you do not wish to
change a criteria. Like, INPUTOPTIONS,
you will be prompted with the possible
responses for each criteria.
GLM Page 18
-------------------------------------------------------------------
MERGE MENU - Continued
MERGE - Selecting this option inserts the
records, according to the Output
Options, into the active database.
Subsequent viewing of the database from
the PICTURES menu or the REPORTS menu,
will show these records in the database.
EXIT - Selecting this option will return you to
the MAIN MENU.
INPUT OPTIONS control which directory file entries will be placed
in the file to be merged into the database. Three options are
provided; they are (1) input extension, (2) Source date = File
date, and (3) Get resolution. If you specify a particular file
extension, then only those directory entries with a matching file
extension will be placed in the merge file. Specifying the Source
date will equal the File date, automatically fills the Source date
field of the record with the same date as the file's directory
date. Specifying to "Get Resolution" will cause all directory
entries with the "GIF" file extension to have their resolution
informationed looked up and placed into the resolution and palette
fields for those merge file entries.
OUTPUT OPTIONS contol which merge file entries are actually placed
into the database. Three options are provided. ASK ON DUPLICATES
will check the merge file name against the database to see if that
name already exists in the database, and if so, prompt you to see
if it should be added. AUTOMATIC INSERT will automatically insert
each (non-duplicate) entry into the database; if this option is
set to "NO" then you will be asked on each entry if that one should
be inserted. NEWER DATES ONLY will compare the merge file's File
Date against the date indicated and insert only those merge file
entries with new dates. This allows you to add some entries from
say a hard disk subdirectory, later obtain more files from a BBS,
which would create newer file dates, and then only add those
entries at a later session. The NEWER DATES option is especially
useful if you download pictures from a BBS and your communications
software always puts the downloads into a particular subdirectory.
The files may be left to accumulate in that subdirectory, but only
the newer sessions added into the database, automatically avoiding
prior additions to the database from that subdirectory.
GLM Page 19
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=============
PICTURES MENU
=============
This function allows you to display, add, edit, delete, or view
the records in the database. The actual pictures may be viewed,
if you have an appropriate viewer designated.
The choices are:
INDEXING - Selecting this option will prompt you to
select one of the indexes used by GLM.
Records are either index in file name order,
file size order, file date order, or none.
ADD - Select this option when you wish to manually
add a record to the database. When finished
entering the fields of information, press the
[ESC] key.
EDIT - Select this option when you wish to change
one or more fields of information of the
currently displayed record. Press [ESC] when
you are finished changing fields. All
indices are automatically updated after the
record has been edited.
DELETE - Deletes the record currently displayed on the
screen. You will be prompted to be sure you
desire the record to be removed from the
database. The next record will be displayed
after a delete, or the previous record if you
deleted the last record according to the
active index, or a blank record if you
deleted the only record in a database.
Records must be manually re-inputted with the
ADD command if the information was
accidentally deleted. GLM automatically
reclaims deleted record space by re-using it
with the next ADD.
FIRST - Positions the database pointer at the first
record in the database, according to the
active index, and displays that record in the
data area.
GLM Page 20
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PICTURES MENU - Continued
PREVIOUS - Positions the database pointer a the prior
record to the one displayed, and displays
that record if possible. The order is
according to the active index. If their is
no previous record (you are at the beginning
of the database), you will be prompted of
that fact.
GET - Prompts you for information to perform a
search for the desired record. The
information requested for the key search
depends on the active index.
NEXT - Opposite of PREVIOUS. Points to, and
displays, the next record according to the
active index. If there is not a next record
(you are at the end of the database according
to the current index), you will be prompted
of that fact.
LAST - Points to and displays the last record in the
database, according to the active index.
VIEWER - Activates the viewer you have previously
designated via shelling to it, and passing
the name of the currently displayed record's
file name to it, so it may display that
picture. Upon completion of your viewer
program's operation, the process should
return you back to this menu with the current
record, etc., displayed. NOT ALL VIEWERS
WORK WITH GLM; you must experiment at your
own risk to see if a viewer program will work
properly with GLM. VPIC, Version 2.6, by Bob
Montgomery, does work and is recommended, as
an example.
EXIT - Returns you to the MAIN MENU.
GLM Page 21
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============
REPORTS MENU
============
This function displays (on the CRT screen) or prints (to your
printer) reports of and about the records in the database. All
printed reports print on standard 8.5 x 11 inch paper at 10 CPI.
The top and bottom margins have been designed to work on laserjet
printers as well. NO special printer initialization strings are
required.
In addition to several data boxes indicating the status of
various options, this screen has a VERTICAL menu in it as well;
it is for the actual selection of the report desired.
The choices are:
CHOICES - This selection activities the reports choice
menu, which is the upper left box in the data
area of the screen. This menu is a vertical
menu, where the report may be selected by
pressing the either the associated number of
the report, [1-0] keys, or using the [UP
ARROW] or [DOWN ARROW] keys. The selected
report will be highlight in the same manner
as with any other menu. To "fix" that
selection, then press the [ENTER] key.
INDEXING - Three indices are kept on each database - by
file name, file size, and file dates. The
currently active index is displayed in the
lower left box in the data area. Selecting
this option allows the index to be changed.
This option affects the order that list
reports are printed or displayed.
RANGE - The index that is active determines which
range options may be employed, i.e., if file
size is the active option, then a range of
file sizes may be selected, but not file
names. Selecting this option allows you to
set a beginning and ending criteria range for
printing or displaying records in list
related reports. Creatively used, range
options allow you to zero in on data about
your database, and determine interesting
conclusions.
GLM Page 22
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REPORTS MENU - Continued
SCREEN - Selecting this option toggles the output of
reports, and selects that reports will be
printed to the screen. The current setting
is display in the upper right hand box in the
data area of the screen.
PRINTER - Selecting this option toggles the output of
reports, and selects that reports will be
printed to your printer. The current setting
is displayed in the upper right-hand box in
the data area of the screen.
EXECUTE - When you have selected the desired report
number, sorting index, ranges, and output
mode, select this option to actually display
or print the report. If you wish a second
copy of a report, select it twice in
succession (the second time after the
PRINTING MENU reappears on the screen). It
is NOT necessary to change any of the other
options before selecting EXECUTE; EXECUTE may
be selected anytime you are satisfied with
the other options.
EXIT - Selecting this options returns you to the
MAIN MENU.
Ten report formats are included with GLM; however, with the
indexing and range options, the combinations of different reports
that can be generated are nearly endless! In addition, some
reports prompt you for more display information.
The reports are grouped into three types - summary total type
reports (reports 1-4), general list reports (reports 5-7), and
list reports by rating criteria (reports 8-10). Due to the
complexity of these reports, there are some differences between
the way they display on the CRT screen and are printed on your
printer. The actual data layout does not change, but the paging
must change.
A brief summary of each report choice begins on the next page.
GLM Page 23
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REPORTS MENU - Continued
REPORT #1: SUMMARY BY FILE NAMES
This summary report keys on the first letter of file names.
Files beginning with a digit (0-9) are placed in the "#"
category, and all other alphabetical characters have their
own category. Any other beginning character is placed in a
28th category. Three viewing options are provided -
alphabetically by initial file letter, initial file letters
sorted by file size, and initial file letter sorted by file
number of records beginning with that letter. On the screen
these are presented as separate reports; all three reports
are automatically printed when the printer is selected for
output. The alphabetical range option will affect the
results.
REPORT #2: SUMMARY TOTALS BY CATEGORIES
If you have elected to use the Categories option and defined
categories, this report will summarize file totals (count
and aggregate bytes of this pictures) by the defined
categories. If you have not defined any categories, this
report cannot be displayed or printed.
REPORT #3: SUMMARY TOTALS BY VIEWING RATING CODES
This report summarizes the number of records and aggregate
bytes of the pictures associated with the Rating Code by the
pre-defined Rating Codes.
REPORT #4: SUMMARY TOTALS BY QUALITY RATING CODES
This report summarizes the number of records and aggregate
bytes of the pictures associated with the Quality Codes by
the pre-defined Quality Codes.
REPORT #5: LIBRARY SOURCE LISTING
This report lists filenames and file information, including
where the picture is stored in your library. Records are
printed one per line; it is most useful to ascertain if you
already have a particular picture when you are pursuing BBS
lists. The range option and indexing option affects which
pictures will be displayed or printed.
REPORT #6: PICTURE INFORMATION LISTING
This report contains information from each record relative
to the actual picture. Records required two lines each with
a blank line in between for readability. The range and
indexing options affect which records will be outputed.
GLM Page 24
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REPORTS MENU - Continued
REPORT #7: COMPLETE DETAILS LISTING
This reports contains all of the fields of information
stored in each record. Records require three lines each,
with a blank line in between each entry. The range and
indexing options affect which records will be displayed or
printed.
REPORT #8: INFORMATION LIST BY CATEGORY
This report is in the same print line format as Report #5,
but is sorted by Category Codes, with a new page beginning
at each category. The range and indexing options will
affect which records are displayed or printed.
REPORT #9: INFORMATION LIST BY QUALITY CODE
This report is in the same print line format as Report #5,
but is sorted by Quality Codes, with a new page beginning at
each category. The range and indexing options will affect
which records are displayed or printed within each Quality
Code.
REPORT #10: INFORMATION LIST BY VIEWING RATING CODE
This report is in the same format as #8 or #9, except page
breaks are by Viewing Rating codes. Reports 8, 9, and 10
all operate the same, except for the use of different
ratings as the main sort criteria.
Ranges can be indicated to extract (display or print) only
selected sets of data for most reports. For instances, if you
desired to run Report 5, the library listing report, but only
list those records beginning with the letter "D", you can easily
do so - select the "NAMES" index and the Range of "D" to "D".
Three ranges are provided, and are used in conjunction with the
active indexing method. You can only change the range associated
with the active indexing method. Changing the active indexing
method allows you to then change the range, when RANGE is next
selected.
GLM Page 25
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REPORTS MENU - Continued
Each range asks for a beginning value and an ending value. To be
completely inclusive the values should be:
ALPHABETICAL: "0" (ZERO) TO "Z"
FILE SIZES: 0 (ZERO) TO "9999999"
DATES: 11/11/11 TO 12/31/99 or some other all
inclusive range per your database.
Rating codes, either Viewing or Quality, are set forth in
Appendix B. Several of the report options key on these codes.
Usage is optional, but if the respective reports are desired,
they must be placed in the records. The Viewing and Quality
rating codes are pre-defined in GLM.
GLM Page 26
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===============
CATEGORIES MENU
===============
Categories are user definable, and are stored as a separate table
within the database file. Each database has its own categories
table. The code for each category is a single character or digit
(characters are stored in upper case regardless of how entered).
Categories codes must be unique, i.e., two categories cannot both
have "D" as their code. Twelve different categories are
possible. Each category code has a description associated with
it, which is used in various reports.
The categories table will always appear sorted alphabetically on
the CRT screen.
Changes made in the categories will not be reflected within the
actual database records themselves. Accordingly, if you
eliminate a category code, that code will still remain in all
database records containing it. Those records would then be
placed in the "other" category when reports were displayed or
printed. Accordingly, it is recommended you think out your codes
carefully before adding records, or appropriate records would all
have to be edited manually afterwards to reflect changes in
respective category codes.
The choices are:
ADD - Adds a new category code and its description
to the list, if space is available in the
table. Only 12 categories may be defined for
a given database, but this has been found to
more than adequate in our testing.
EDIT - Allows a category code or its description to
be changed. The list is resorted and
re-displayed as needed. Duplicate codes are
not allowed. The actual database records are
not updated if a category code changes; only
the Category Table is changed.
DELETE - Delete a given entry from the Categories
Table. You will be prompted to indicate
which category code (not the list number) you
wish to delete. After deletion, the list
will be resorted and re-displayed. Please
note, the deleted code is only changed in the
Category Table; records with that delete
code, still have that Category Code in their
record.
GLM Page 27
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CATEGORIES MENU - Continued
CLEARALL - Don't like your Category Table? this option
deletes ALL entries from the Category Table.
Its purposes is intended only when a
wholesale restructuring is desired. Whatever
category codes you placed in the respective
database records are still in each record.
EXIT - Returns you to the MAIN MENU.
As stated earlier the Category Table is totally user definable.
An example of what you might do is:
A - Animal pictures
M - Mountain scenes
N - NASA pictures
R - River scenes
etc. up to the 12 category limit per database.
The combination of multiple databases and separate category tables
within each database permit the categorization of picture files in
almost unlimited ways, and as general or specific as you desire.
Some careful thought about the contents of your databases and the
categories therein beforehand will allow you arrangements meeting
your exact needs.
GLM Page 28
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===========
SET-UP MENU
===========
GLM uses various pieces of information at different times in the
execution of the program. This information is stored in the
system file, may be edited from the SET-UP MENU, and then saved.
These "default" values will be used when needed by the program,
eliminating the need for the information to be keyed in each time
it is needed.
The choices are:
DATABASE - Allows you to store the name of a default
database, the name of which will be
automatically inserted into the database name
field when you desire to open or create a
database. The program will not create
duplicate databases, unless they will be in
different paths. This option eliminates the
need to type in the name of your most used
database every time you use GLM.
VIEWER - This option allows you to store the name of a
viewer program in GLM, which GLM will attempt
to shell to and display a picture. The
filename and program's extension must be
provided. Not all viewing program's work
(none that start from a .BAT file, for
instance). The viewing program must be
capable of accepting a path and/or a filename
as a parameter. Only a few programs have
been tested. VPIC, Version 2.6 by Bob
Montgomery has been tested, and is
recommended. You will have to experiment, at
your own risk, to see if you can utilize this
function. NO warranties are express nor
implied about the use of this function or any
particular viewing program.
GLM Page 29
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SET-UP MENU - Continued
PATHS - Selecting this option presents another menu
to change any of the paths GLM allows you to
set. The paths are (1) for the database(s),
(2) for the viewing program, (3) for
pictures, (4) for Fill Files, (5) for Extract
files, and (6) for back-up copies of a
database. Each submenu item corresponds to a
path in the path box.
SAVE - Selecting this option saves the various
parameters to disk, making them the current
defaults, as well as the future defaults
whenever GLM is run. This option must be
selected to save any changes.
EXIT - Returns you to the MAIN MENU.
GLM Page 30
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====
HELP
====
This is not a menu per se, but rather a display screen detailing
basic help on the operation of the program, and MAIN MENU
choices. It is two screen pages long. Select HELP when you wish
to refresh yourself on the MAIN MENU options and their purposes.
====
QUIT
====
This selection is not a menu, per se. Selecting this option is
the appropriate manner to exit the program back to your DOS
prompt. Note that all menus, except the Main Menu have EXIT as
the right most choice. This is because all other menus exit to
a menu. Only the QUIT choice from the main menu exits to DOS.
GLM Page 31
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==========
CONCLUSION
==========
This concludes the GLM manual, except for appendices which
follow.
GLM has been designed by a graphics picture collector for
graphics picture collectors. If you liked the program, let us
know. If you disliked the program, or have ideas on how to
enhance it, especially let us know. You criticisms, either
positive or negative, will be appreciated. Write us at:
JPT SOLUTIONS, INC.
P.O. BOX 68968
SCHAUMBURG, ILLINOIS 60168
Jim Trunck, the author, may be reached via CompuServe; his CIS
full name and number is (messages are checked every other week):
NAME: JAMES P. TRUNCK ID NUMBER: 75130,412
Also, Jim Trunck can be reached at IBBS 708-885-2151; this BBS
is checked almost daily; his ID on this BBS is ID0112.
As previously noted in this manual, GLM shells to a viewing
program passing the name of a current picture's filename and
extension to that program. A command line is generated
consisting of the viewer path, the filename but not the file
extension of the viewing program, a space, then the picture path
and finally the picture's filename and extension. Depending on
how a viewing program works and its size, as well as your DOS,
this methodology permits you to view a picture, as if the viewing
program was part of GLM. Not all viewing programs will work, and
only a few have been tested.
We have tested the viewing feature with Bob Montgomery's
VPIC.EXE, particularly version 2.6. We have no affiliation with
Mr. Montgomery, but do recommend his program. VPIC is a
shareware program, but requires a fee for use after an evaluation
period of time. His program may be obtained from various BBS's.
YOU MUST EVALUATE IF HIS PROGRAM, OR ANY OTHER VIEWING PROGRAM,
WILL WORK PROPERLY WITH GLM AT YOUR OWN RISK. JPT SOLUTIONS,
INC. ASSUMES NO LIABILITY OF ANY NATURE WHATSOEVER ABOUT TRYING
OR USING A VIEWING PROGRAM IN CONJUNCTION WITH GLM.
Finally, a special thanks to Roger Stearns for his assistance in
preparing the documentation, beta testing GLM, and offering
comments to make GLM a better product.
GLM Page 32
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========
WARRANTY
========
GLM is distributed without warranties of any kind or nature. Use
of the demonstration version, or purchasing the regular version
is without warranty included. JPT Solutions assumes no liability
of any nature whatsoever, including damages of any nature
whatsoever, with the use of GLM.
JPT Solutions, Inc. will replace a damaged diskette of the
purchased version, but only if:
you return the defective diskette postage paid; and,
you include $2.50 to cover JPT Solutions' cost of return
shipping and handling back to you; and,
and it is returned within 30 days of purchase.
The documentation and actual software code are subject to change
without notice. Purchasers will receive the most current
version available.
GLM Page 33
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APPENDIX A
FILE NAMES AND EXTENSIONS USED BY GLM
Files used by GLM:
database.GLM - An actual database file
database.GLB - Backed-up copy of a database file
database.MBF - Fill or Extract file in Microsoft Basic
format
database.ASC - Fill or Extract file in ASCII format
GLMINFO.DAT - GLM's system file containing default values
GLM.EXE - The actual GLM program.
Other files distributed with GLM:
GLMORDER.DOC - GLM order form in general ASCII format
MANUAL.GLM - GLM documentation manual (this file) in
general ASCII format
WHATIS.GLM - General information about GLM
GLMPIXS.MBF - Sample Fill file containing about a dozen
records to be inserted into an initially
created database for demonstration and
evaluation purposes.
NOTES:
1. Fill files must have the same filename as the active
database, and the appropriate file extension denoting
the type of data within the fill file.
2. Extract files will automatically create the filename
based on the active database file name, and append the
appropriate file extension onto the name, based on the
menu option selected as to the desired contents.
3. Any valid DOS filename may be used for a database's
file name; consult your DOS manual about file naming
conventions.
GLM Page 34
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APPENDIX B
VIEWING AND QUALITY RATINGS
GLM uses various pre-defined ratings when preparing reports.
There usage is optional in a database, but necessary for the
respective reports.
VIEWING RATINGS
Single character codes, denoted by the following alphabetical
characters, similar to what the motion picture industry uses.
X - X-rated viewing contents
R - Restricted rated viewing contents
P - Potential Guidance suggested
G - General viewing
N - Non rated
U - (or blank) Not yet classified
QUALITY RATINGS
Single character codes, denoted by the following alphabetical
characters, to indicate the quality of the picture or its
contents.
E - Excellent
G - Good
A - Average
F - Fair
P - Poor
" " - Blank = not yet classified
GLM Page 35
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APPENDIX C
ASCII FILE LAYOUT SPECIFICATIONS
(For FILL and EXTRACT Options)
This information is not distributed with
the demonstration shareware version.
GLM Page 36
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APPENDIX D
MS BASIC FORMAT FILE LAYOUT SPECIFICATIONS
(For FILL and EXTRACT Options)
This information is not distributed with
the demonstration shareware version.
GLM Page 37
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APPENDIX E
A PICTURE LOCATION CLASSIFICATION CODE SYSTEM
The relative location and area of the screen used by pictures may
be stored in GLM; a three character field is provided for this
purpose. The values in the field, or its use at all, is at the
user's option. This appendix provides a set of sample codes for
classification which could be employed:
Basically, this system assumes the screen is either divided into
relative thirds - horizontally or vertically, halved, or
quartered, and the actual picture takes up all or most of the
respective space. The codes are:
FS - Full screen (uses all of the screen), or
ALL - All or full screen (same as above)
SC2 - Screen centered - about 1/2 filled
SC3 - Screen Centered - about 1/3 filled
SC4 - Screen centered - about 1/4 filled
T50 - Top 1/2 of screen - horizontal picture
B50 - Bottom 1/2 of screen -horizontal picture
M50 - Middle 1/2 of screen - horizontal picture
L50 - Left 1/2 of screen - vertical picture
C50 - Center 1/2 of screen -vertical picture
R50 - Right 1/2 of screen - vertical picture
T33 - TOP 1/3 of screen - horizontal picture
M33 - Middle 1/3 of screen - horizontal picture
B33 - Bottom 1/3 of screen - horizontal picture
L33 - Left 1/3 of screen - vertical picture
C33 - Center 1/3 of Screen - vertical picture
R33 - Right 1/3 of screen - vertical picture
ULQ - Upper left 1/4th of screen
URQ - Upper right 1/4 of screen
LLQ - Lower left 1/4 of screen
LRQ - Lower right 1/4 of screen
