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__________________________
TASKBASE 1.2
__________________________
User's Guide
Paradigm Software Systems
1735 Rusk
De Pere, WI 54115
Distributed by: EZX Distributing
Unit 58177, 17077 Texas Av.
Webster, TX 77598-0080 USA
VISA/MC/Discover/AX orders may call 1.800.359.9539 Toll Free
Copyright (C) 1989, 1991 by Paradigm Software Systems
All Rights Reserved
TABLE of CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction ........................................... 1
1.1 What is TaskBase? An Overview ................... 1
1.2 TaskBase Files ................................... 2
1.3 System Requirements .............................. 3
1.4 TaskBase Installation ............................ 4
1.4.1 Installation .............................. 4
1.4.2 Running TaskBase from a Hard Drive ........ 4
2.0 TaskBase Help Guide ................................... 5
2.1 TaskBase Help System - Overview .................. 5
2.2 Adding TaskBase Records .......................... 6
2.3 Updating TaskBase Records ........................ 7
2.4 Using Notes ...................................... 7
2.5 Deleting Records ................................. 8
2.6 Sorting/Selecting TaskBase Records ............... 8
2.6.1 Setting Sort Criteria ..................... 8
2.6.2 Setting Filter Criteria ................... 9
a. Auto Tickler Selection ................ 9
b. Auto Overdue Selection ................ 9
c. Auto Completion Selection ............. 9
d. Custom Filter ......................... 10
2.7 Categories ....................................... 11
2.7.1 Switching Categories ...................... 11
2.7.2 Renaming Categories ........................ 11
2.7.3 Deleting Categories ....................... 12
2.7.4 Adding Categories .......................... 12
2.7.5 Transferring Tasks ........................ 12
2.7.6 Copying Tasks ............................. 12
2.8 Printing .......................................... 13
2.8.1 Report Types ............................... 14
2.8.2 Reports - Selecting Information ........... 14
2.8.3 Supported Printers ......................... 15
2.8.4 Report Printout Destinations .............. 15
2.9 Using the DOS Shell ............................... 16
2.10 Utilities - General ............................... 16
2.10.1 Setting the DOS Path ..................... 16
2.10.2 Setting the Memory Swap Size ............. 17
2.10.3 Setting TaskBase Screen Colors ........... 17
2.10.4 Optimizing TaskBase's Data Files ......... 17
2.10.5 User-Defined Applications Menus ........... 17
2.10.6 Selecting a Printer ...................... 18
2.11 Quitting TaskBase ................................ 18
3.0 When/If Problems Occur ................................ 19
4.0 Wrapping it Up! ....................................... 20
5.0 Warranty / Licensing Agreement ........................ 21
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 1
_____________________________________________________________________________
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 What is TaskBase? An Overview.
Basically, TaskBase is a very sophisticated `to-do'
list type program. It was born out of frustration with
trying to track all those little job
responsibilities/tasks which seem to keep coming from
everywhere. I got real tired of having an office
absolutely littered with little slips of paper,
`sticky' notes, etc, there had to be a better way! I
wanted to be able to categorize the tasks which I had
been assigned, dependent upon where they came from,
type of task, completed tasks, etc. In addition, I
wanted to be able to keep some type of status report on
the various tasks, or commitments, which I had
undertaken. Although I looked at several `to-do list'
type programs on the market, I was at a loss to find
one which allowed any degree of status reporting and
categorization, much less both abilities in the same
program. Now, I know that I'm not the only the person
out there in the working world who seems to be getting
hit with things to do from every direction, and asked
for status reports on a moments notice. Being
fortunate enough to know a little programming, I
developed TaskBase to help me organize my life, and by
making it available to the computing public, hopefully
it will provide an immeasurable amount of relief
throughout the working world!
TaskBase allows you to set up numerous categories of
things to do. For example, you may set up different
lists for administrative, technical, and personal type
tasks - be inventive, TaskBase will do whatever you
want.
TaskBase allows you to attach notes, as much as 32
pages worth, to each and every task you have! This
allows you to keep an ongoing status report of
anything. And if you're boss wants to know what's
going on, simply select the records of interest and
print them out with the attached notes - how easy! You
can output the records in any order via the `sort'
command, and even filter out those records which you
don't want to see with the `select' command. Through
sort and select, you can customize your reports to any
degree you desire.
Well this provides a pretty good method to manage your
commitments, but I also found that I had to make a
conscious decision to run TaskBase in order to use it.
This problem has been minimized by the incorporation of
a single layer menu system into TaskBase. This allows
you to use your favorite word processor, database, etc,
without ever leaving the TaskBase system. Personally,
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 2
_____________________________________________________________________________
I recommend starting TaskBase from your `autoexec.bat'
file, then access your other applications from within
TaskBase. In this way, you can always return to
TaskBase, at the point where you left it, to update
task status, add tasks, etc.
All in all, TaskBase should provide you with a fairly
decent method for organizing/tracking your various
tasks and commitments.
1.2 TaskBase Files
The files necessary for the operation of TaskBase are
as follows:
TASKBASE.EXE Main Program File
RR_PR1.MEM Printer Configuration Files
RR_PR2.MEM
RR_PR3.MEM
RR_PR4.MEM
RR_PR5.MEM
RR_PR6.MEM
RR_PR7.MEM
RR_PR8.MEM
TMCOL.MEM TaskBase Configuration File for Color
Systems
TMMON.MEM TaskBase Configuration File for
Monochrome Systems
HELP.DBF TaskBase Help Files
HELP.DBT
HELP.NTX
WORKLIST.DBF TaskBase Data Files
WORKLIST.DBT
USER.NTX
TASKBASE.DOC This Documentation File
COMMENT.FRM User Comment Form
1.3 System Requirements
Basic Necessities:
IBM PC/XT/AT/PS2 or compatible
640 K RAM
Hard Disk Drive
Monochrome or Color Monitor
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 3
_____________________________________________________________________________
TaskBase comes with a set of seven printer
configuration files, including:
1) Epson EX/FX/JX/RX/LQ
2) Epson MX
3) Hewlett Packard LaserJet 500/+/II
4) IBM Graphics
5) Panasonic KX-1091
6) Star Gemini 10X/15X
7) Texas Instruments 850/855
If your printer is not listed, you have three options:
1) Try one of the other printers to see if it may be
compatible with yours. For instance, several
dot-matrix printers provide emulation of the IBM
Graphics printer and several lasers provide
emulation of the HP LaserJet.
2) Use the `Generic Printer' option on the printer
selection menu. This option should work with any
printer, however, special printer effects, such as
bolding, will not be available.
3) Have Paradigm Software Systems create a special
printer driver for you. Call Paradigm for further
information.
1.4 TaskBase Installation
1.4.1 Installation
a. Make a subdirectory on your hard disk in
which you will put the TaskBase system, i.e.,
the following command sequence may be used:
C:
MD TASKBASE
CD TASKBASE
Note that this sequence also makes the
`TASKBASE' directory your default
drive/directory.
b. Place your TaskBase 1.2 Master disk in drive
A.
c. Enter the following command:
COPY A:*.* C:\TASKBASE
d. Remove the disk from drive A and store in a
safe place.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 4
_____________________________________________________________________________
1.4.2 Running TaskBase from a Hard Drive
a. Switch to the TaskBase directory, if you're
not already there, by using the following
command sequence (example):
C:
CD TASKBASE
b. Start TaskBase by entering `TASKBASE' at the
DOS prompt.
c. Select the default category, `GENERAL', and
press return.
NOTE: If TaskBase does not find the
necessary database files in the current
directory, it will prompt you to allow it to
create them.
d. Press `F9' to enter the utilities menu and
proceed through the options, except
Optimization, to setup TaskBase for your
preferences.
HINT: IF YOU HAVE THE NECESSARY EQUIPMENT TO
USE A RAMDRIVE, SELECT IT AS THE `DOS PATH'
WHICH TASKBASE WILL USE TO STORE TEMPORARY
FILES. THIS WILL GREATLY ACCELERATE THE
PROCESS OF ACCESSING DOS AND RUNNING
APPLICATIONS FROM YOUR USER-DEFINED MENU.
2.0 TaskBase Help Guide
This section of the User's Guide contains the text of the
TaskBase On-Line Help System as it was originally written, i.e.,
before user modifications were made. (The titles have been
expanded for clarity.) The comprehensiveness of the help
system makes additional operating instructions unnecessary.
2.1 TaskBase Help System - Overview
The TaskBase Help System consists of three major
components:
1. The On-Line Help System
(User Definable - See Below)
2. This User's Guide
3. Screen Prompts
This Help System can be accessed from any point within
TaskBase simply by pressing the `F1' key. It has been
designed to answer most questions concerning the actual
use of the TaskBase system. If it doesn't address your
particular needs, try consulting the User's Guide. The
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 5
_____________________________________________________________________________
User's Guide contains information concerning TaskBase
system requirements and installation procedures. If
questions still exist, call Paradigm Software Systems
at the number provided in the User's Guide.
To use this system, highlight the desired topic using
the up/down arrow keys, then press `ENTER'. In most
cases, the help screen will appear, but in others,
additional choices will be presented. When finished
reading the screen, simply press `ESC'. Throughout
TaskBase, pressing the `ESC' key backs you up one step,
and in this case, will back you out of the help system
and return you to the main TaskBase system.
Most TaskBase operations are directed by on-screen help
throughout the program. This has been designed to be
your primary guide.
USER DEFINABLE HELP SYSTEM
You may augment any of the help screens in TaskBase
simply by using help, displaying the selected screen,
making your edits/additions, and pressing `F10' to
save. Your new screen will appear as the help screen
forever more, that is, unless you decide to change it
again. Let me emphasize, there is nothing sacred about
these screens, make them work for you!
2.2 Adding TaskBase Records
Adding records to the TaskBase tracking system is as simple
as pressing `F3' to activate the task addition screen.
The following information may be added at this time:
Description: A short description, up to 240
characters of the task/commitment which
you want to track. NOTE that the screen
will only display the first 40
characters of the description, however,
your printed reports will contain the
complete description.
Date Assigned: The date which you received the task or
made the commitment. The entry defaults
to today's date, however, you can simply
change it by typing over it. All dates
are in the format MM/DD/YY.
Date Due: The date by which the task must be
completed.
Priority: You can assign a priority, or
importance, factor to any task by
entering a single digit number, 0 to 9,
in this field. Making 1 the most
important allows you to sort your lists
with the most important tasks at the top.
Date Done: The date which you completed the task.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 6
_____________________________________________________________________________
Toggle through the fields, adding/changing information
as you go, by using either the up/down arrow keys or
the `ENTER' key. (NOTE: you must use the `ENTER' key
from the last field, `Date Done'.) You will then be
prompted to either `Modify' or `Save'.
Modify - Allows you to perform additional editing of
the information in the current record.
Save - Saves your updated record.
When you select SAVE, TaskBase analyzes the information
to make a preliminary judgement if the information
seems reasonable. For example, entering an assigned
date which is actually in the future will prompt
TaskBase to ask you if this is correct. Of course, you
can say `Yes' and TaskBase will accept the entry,
however, if you say `No', TaskBase will allow you to
edit the erroneous information.
Pressing `ESC' at any point in the addition process
will return you to the main TaskBase system without
adding a new record.
<< See Also *Updating Records* >>
2.3 Updating TaskBase Records
Pressing `F2' allows you to update any of the
information displayed on the screen for the currently
highlighted record. Toggle through the fields,
changing any information as you go, by using either the
up/down arrow keys or the `ENTER' key. (NOTE you must
use the `ENTER' key from the last field, `Date Done'.)
You will then be prompted to either `Modify' or `Save'.
Modify - Allows you perform additional editing of the
information in the current record.
Save - Saves your updated record.
When you select SAVE, TaskBase analyzes the information
you have entered to determine if it is potentially
invalid. For example, TaskBase will warn you if you
have entered an assigned date that is actually in the
future, if you have entered a due date which is earlier
than the assigned date, etc. TaskBase gives you the
opportunity to edit the information, but, of course,
you can always tell TaskBase that you actually want it
the way you entered it.
Pressing `ESC' at any point in the update process will
return you to the main TaskBase system without making
any changes to your records.
<< SEE ALSO *Adding Records* >>
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 7
_____________________________________________________________________________
2.4 Using Notes
Using Notes are one of the big advantages of the
TaskBase tracking system. Up to 32 pages of notes
(approximately 64 Kbytes) may be tagged to any entry by
simply pressing `ENTER' and typing away! Following the
directions given at the bottom of the note screen,
pressing `F10' will save the note - pressing `ESC' will
exit the note screen without saving.
The notes feature allows you to maintain an ongoing
status report for each of your tasks, including
documentation of meetings, phone calls, problems,
delays, etc. Just the thing when the boss wants an
update on your progress!
Your notes will be printed with the reports when you
select the `with Notes' report option contained in the
print routine.
2.5 Deleting Records
You may delete records from your task lists when you're
SURE you've finished with them, but beware, once you
delete them - they're gone!
Another option is to set up one or more categories for
old tasks. This way, you maintain a historical record
of task activities, of course, this depends on disk
space and your own priorities.
Deleting a task is as simple as highlighting the task,
pressing the `F6' key, and answering `Y' to the `Are
you sure?' type question. If you change your mind,
answer `N' to the question and you will be returned to
the program with no harm done.
2.6 Sorting/Selecting TaskBase Records
Pressing the `F4' key presents you with a choice of
either setting your own sorting or filtering criteria.
2.6.1 Setting Sort Criteria
This option allows you to control the order in
which your tasks are displayed on the screen and
in reports. When you select sort, you will be
shown a selection box from which you may choose
the information to sort by. Simply use the arrow
keys to select the information, then press
`ENTER'. In addition, you may connect several
selection conditions together if you wish.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 8
_____________________________________________________________________________
After selecting the sort group(s), you may
experience a short delay while the program
regroups your records. NOTE: The more groups
which you include in your sort, the slower
subsequent program execution will be.
TaskBase will retain your sort preferences each
time you enter the program.
2.6.2 Setting Filter Criteria
This option allows you to select those records
which meet selection criteria which you establish
via the on-line prompt screens. Only those
records meeting your criteria will be displayed.
Three preset filters have already been
established, including Tickler, Overdue Selection,
and Completion filters. A forth choice, Custom
Filter, allows you to create your own special set
of conditions. Each of these options is described
below.
a. Automatic Tickler Selection
TaskBase allows you to automatically select
those tasks which are coming due. Upon
selecting this option, TaskBase prompts you
for a starting and ending date upon which to
establish to range of uncompleted tasks which
will be displayed. The default dates
provided are today's dates, therefore, simply
pressing ENTER will provide you with a list
of those tasks which are due today.
NOTE: Changing categories cancels the
selection conditions and all records in the
new category will be displayed.
b. Automatic Overdue Selection
TaskBase allows you to automatically select
those tasks which are overdue. Upon
selecting this option, TaskBase prompts you
for a target date which is used to serve as
the endpoint for the overdue list. The
default is today's date, therefore, simply
pressing ENTER will provide you with a list
of overdue tasks as of today.
NOTE: Changing categories cancels the
selection conditions and all records in the
new category will be displayed.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 9
_____________________________________________________________________________
c. Automatic Completion Selection
TaskBase allows you to automatically select
those tasks which have been completed. Upon
selecting this option, TaskBase prompts you
for a starting and ending date upon which to
establish the range for completed tasks to be
displayed. The default dates are today's
dates, therefore, simply pressing ENTER will
provide you with a list of those tasks which
you have completed today.
NOTE: Changing categories cancels the
selection conditions and all records in the
new category will be displayed.
d. Custom Filter
TaskBase allows you to create a `filter'
which may be used for displaying only those
records which meet a condition that you have
set.
When you select this option you will be
presented with a window which allows you to
select the information by which you want to
`filter' the data. The choices are: Date
Assigned, Description, Date Due, Date Done,
and Priority. An additional choice is
<Restore All>, which resets any filters you
have selected and redisplays all the data for
the particular category.
After selecting a `field' to use for your
filter, TaskBase will present you with a list
of `operators', i.e.:
> Greater Than
< Less Than
>= Greater Than or Equal To
= Equal To
=< Less Than or Equal To
<> Not Equal To
$ Is Contained In - FOR DESCRIPTION FIELDS
ONLY
(This option allows you to specify a
string which may be found in your
`description field'. For example, if
the description contained the string:
"Complete/Mail TaskBase Registration"
entering any of the following strings
would result in these items being
selected; Mail, mail, MAIL, mAIl, It,
Reg, TRA, compl, etc. NOTE that the
search is NOT case-sensitive.
Additionally, you will be given the
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 10
_____________________________________________________________________________
option to include the NOTES in this
search.)
After selecting the operator, you will be
prompted to enter the information which you
want to use as the selection criteria.
Finally, you will be asked if you want to
specify another set of conditions, or to
return to TaskBase using the conditions you
have already set. If you specify another set
of conditions, which will further narrow the
scope of the items which will be displayed,
you will be returned to the first selection
screen, and the whole process will be
repeated. NOTE: Chaining multiple
conditions together uses `AND' logic.
All selection conditions are cancelled when
you switch categories.
2.7 Categories
TaskBase categories allow you to group your tasks into
bunches of related items. The concept is similar to
subdirectories,i.e., its a lot easier to find something
in 5 different lists of 20 things than in a single list
of 100, especially if the different lists have helpful
titles. TaskBase category titles can be up to 36
characters long!
With TaskBase categories, you can easily switch between
categories, transfer a task to a different category, or
even copy a task to a different category (i.e., the
task would then be in both the current and the selected
categories).
2.7.1 Switching Categories
TaskBase contains three different ways to switch
to a different category.
The normal way to switch categories is by pressing
the `F7' key and selecting `Change Category'. You
will then be given your list of categories from
which to select. Highlight the desired category
by using the up/down arrows and then select it by
pressing `ENTER'.
Additionally, you will be prompted to select a
category when you initially enter the TaskBase
system, and also when you delete the last record
in a category.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 11
_____________________________________________________________________________
2.7.2 Renaming Categories
TaskBase allows you to quickly rename the current
category by selecting `F7', Categories and
selecting `Rename Category'. You will then be
prompted for a new category name. If you change
your mind, simply press `ESC' to abort the
process.
2.7.3 Deleting Categories
TaskBase allows you to completely delete the
current category by selecting `F7', Categories and
selecting `Delete Category'. You will be
presented with an `Are You SURE!' question to give
you a chance to change your mind. Remember, if
you say `Y', the current category, and all tasks
contained within it, will be gone forever! After
the deletion, TaskBase will prompt you to select a
new category.
2.7.4 Adding Categories
TaskBase categories are generally added by
pressing the `F7' key,and then selecting `<Create
Category>'. You will then be prompted for a new
category name, which can be up to 36 characters
long. After entering a category name, you will be
transferred to the new category. A task record is
provided to get you started in the new category,
`First entry ...', which you should edit first.
There is no limit to the number of categories
which you may make.
2.7.5 Transferring Tasks Between Categories
TaskBase allows you to transfer a task from one
category to another. For example, you may have a
category for completed tasks. When you complete a
task, you can transfer it to the completed tasks
category to keep from cluttering up your list of
active tasks.
Transferring a task is done by highlighting the
desired task using the up/down arrow keys,
pressing `F7' to display the `Category Options'
screen, and selecting `Transfer'. A listing of
your categories will then appear from which you
can pick. (Of course, selecting the same category
will not result in a transfer.)
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 12
_____________________________________________________________________________
2.7.6 Copying Tasks Between Categories
TaskBase allows you to copy a selected task from
the current category to another. Unlike transfer,
this process will result in the task, including
associated notes, appearing in both the current
and the selected category.
Copying a task is done by highlighting the desired
task using the up/down arrow keys, pressing `F7'
to display the `Category Options' screen, and
selecting `Copy'. A listing of your categories
will then appear from which you can pick. (Of
course, selecting the same category will not
result in a copy being made.)
2.8 Printing
Although TaskBase provides only four report types;
Selected Records with/without Notes and All Records
with/without Notes, it can be very versatile.
Choosing the Selected Records option is used to print a
report of those items which appear on the screen at the
point you press `F8' to enter the print routine. This
mode can be very versatile because you select,
on-screen, the tasks to be printed using the
`F4-Sort/Select' option. Basically, the task list you
see on the screen is the task list which will be
printed.
<< See Also *Printing - Report Types* >>
<< See Also *Printing - Select Info* >>
Alternatively, choosing the All Records option provides
a report of all the entries in the TaskBase system
grouped by category.
Either report type gives you the option of including or
excluding your notes from the printed report.
Several printer drivers are available which should
cover most printer needs.
<< See Also *Printing - Printers* >>
Three different print destinations are also available.
You can print to either a printer, the screen, or to a
file for later printing.
<< See Also *Printing - Destinations* >>
The print routine is accessed by pressing `F8-Print'.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 13
_____________________________________________________________________________
2.8.1 TaskBase Report Types
TaskBase contains four basic reports:
Selected Records with Notes
Selected Records without Notes
All Records with Notes
All Records without Notes
Choosing the `Selected Records' option provides a
report which is very similar to your current
screen display, i.e., they give the category,
priority, date assigned, description, date due,
and date done. In addition, they print the date of
the report at the top. You `Select' the records
which will be printed by selecting the category,
then further narrowing the scope with the
F4-Sort/Select routines. Only those records
displayed will be printed. NOTE that the record
selection routine must be done prior to selecting
the print routine (F8).
Choosing the `All Records' option provides a
comprehensive report of all entries in the
TaskBase system grouped by category.
Each option allows you to elect to print your
notes. If you do, the note will be printed
immediately below the item to which it belongs.
2.8.2 TaskBase Reports - Selecting Information
The tasks to be printed are selected and ordered
before you ever select the print routine. This is
done through the `F4-Sort/Select' option from the
main screen.
Basically, the reports are WYSIWYG (what you see
is what you get).
If you have already entered the print routine, and
decide that you aren't happy with the tasks you
have selected, simply press `ESC' and you will be
returned to the main TaskBase system.
2.8.3 Supported Printers
TaskBase includes 10 different printers,
including:
Epson EX/FX/JX/RX Epson MX
Epson LQ HP LaserJet 500/+
HP LaserJet II IBM 80 CPS Graphics
Panasonic KX-1091 Star Gemini 10/15-X
TI 850/855 Generic Printer
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 14
_____________________________________________________________________________
If your printer is not on the list, read your
printer manual to find out if it emulates any of
the above, i.e., generally IBM, HP or Epson, and,
if not, select the `Generic Printer'. Printing
with the `Generic' printer works fine, but special
printer effects such as bolding, underline, and
italics will show up as regular print.
2.8.4 TaskBase Report Printout Destinations
You are given the choice of three destinations
after selecting a report format; Screen, Printer
or File. The default choice is screen. Use the
up/down arrow keys to highlight a different
destination and press ENTER to change the
destination.
Printing to the printer begins immediately.
TaskBase will warn you if the printer is not ready
and allow you to ready the printer and try again.
If you decide not to print at this point, simply
press ESC.
Printing to file provides you with another
selection box to determine the type of file to
print, either a file which is formatted for your
selected printer, or a simple DOS text file for
later incorporation into you favorite word
processor. NOTE TaskBase prompts you for a
filename under which you want the report saved.
If you want it in a drive/directory other than
where TaskBase is, you can include a full drive
and path identifier. For example, if you
specified that you wanted the report to be saved
to drive a: with a filename of tvreport, you would
enter "a:tbreport". To later print the report
from DOS, you would use the following command:
A:>PRINT TBREPORT.PRN (TaskBase adds the PRN
extension)
2.9 Using the DOS Shell
TaskBase allows you to jump out to DOS to perform any
little job without actually leaving the program. In
addition, you are able to specify a particular program
to execute when jumping to DOS!
In this case, the program you specify will run, and
when you quit it, you will return directly to TaskBase.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 15
_____________________________________________________________________________
We jump out to dos by taking a `snapshot' of the
computer's memory - writing it to disk - and then
reading it back into memory when you return. Doing
this requires some information from you about memory
requirements and disk drives, which is handled by the
TaskBase Utilities menu.
<< See Also *TaskBase Utilities* >>
<< *DOS Paths* >>
<< *DOS Memory* >>
<< *User Menus* >>
2.10 Utilities
The TaskBase utilities allow you to control the
environment in which you are working when using the
program. The changes made in the utilities selection
are remembered by TaskBase even when you exit the
program, until you decide to change them again.
2.10.1 Setting the DOS Path
TaskBase allows you to temporarily exit to DOS
without leaving the program. It does this by
writing a snapshot of the computer's memory to
disk when you exit to DOS, and then reading the
memory back from disk and into the computer's
memory when you return. This option allows you to
specify where you want the temporary file to be
placed.
By default, TaskBase will write the file to the
current default drive/subdirectory, which is
generally fine when running TaskBase from a hard
disk, however, floppy disk users may want to have
a blank, formatted floppy in another drive to use
for the temporary file. NOTE, in either case, the
operation will be speeded up greatly if you can
set up a ramdisk to direct the file to!
2.10.2 Setting the Memory Swap Size
TaskBase allows you to specify the amount of
memory to free up when accessing DOS. This is
particularly useful if you are working with floppy
disks and only need enough memory to jump out of
TaskBase to perform some simple DOS functions or
run small programs. If you have a hard-disk, you
can generally free up enough memory to run just
about any application you have.
To free the maximum amount of memory, enter `0' as
the amount. NOTE, TaskBase will free up all but
about 10K of memory when this option is selected.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 16
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The only disadvantage to freeing up more memory
than you need is the time lost in writing/reading
the temporary memory/disk file.
CAUTION: Do not load any TSR (Terminate and Stay
Resident, i.e.Sidekick) type programs with this
option as this will disrupt the system memory map
and TaskBase will not be able to be recalled. TSRs
must be loaded before starting TaskBase.
<< Sidekick is a registered trademark of Borland >>
2.10.3 Setting TaskBase Screen Colors
TaskBase allows you to exercise complete control
over your screen colors by simply selecting the
`Colors' option from the `Utilities Menu' and
following the prompts. Although I'm partial to
the default color palette, of course, everybody's
taste is different (some are REAL different!).
The final option on the screen colors menu is to
personalize the header bar. This option allows you
to replace the `TaskBase 1.2' with a name/phrase
of your choosing.
2.10.4 Optimizing TaskBase's Database Files
Database files, which is basically what TaskBase
is, are notorious for slowing down after extended
use. This is due to an accumulation of deleted
records and note information. I strongly suggest
that you run the optimization routine periodically
to maintain satisfactory system performance, and
to minimize the disk space required by the TaskBase
data files. NOTE: By routine, I would suggest a
frequency of about weekly, more or less depending
upon the amount of editing/deleting you do.
2.10.5 User Defined Applications Menus
TaskBase allows you to create a simple menu system
from which you can run your favorite applications
programs without leaving TaskBase. The `User
Menu' routine allows you to add, edit, and delete
items on your menu. In addition, the routine
allows you to specify the amount of memory
required for the application, and even allows you
to create/edit DOS batch files! NOTE: When you
delete a menu entry, the associated batch file, if
present, is also deleted.
This system is not designed to replace some of the
fancier menu systems which are available, and if
you are currently using one of these, I don't
expect that you will replace it with this one.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 17
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However, you can identify the other menu system on
the TaskBase user menu and actually exit TaskBase
and enter your menu system. When you leave the
menu system, you will be returned to TaskBase
right where you left off.
2.10.6 Selecting a Printer
TaskBase allows you to select a printer from a
list of several supported printers. You should do
this before you print a report for the first time.
If your printer is not among those listed, you
have two options: First, consult your printer's
users manual to see if your printer will emulate
one of those listed. For example, many dot-matrix
printers will emulate the IBM Graphics Printer.
Second, select the `Generic Printer' option, which
allows you to print all the reports, however,
special print attributes such as bolding will not
be available.
2.11 Quitting TaskBase
Sounds simple right, press `ESC' and say `Y' to exit -
and it is just this simple. But PLEASE, always leave
in this manner. Never turn the computer off in the
middle of the program or you may find that you're
missing records the next time you use TaskBase.
All disk-resident databases, and TaskBase is no
exception, require some housekeeping when they are done
being used. TaskBase takes care of this for you when
you properly exit the program. Exiting improperly does
not give it a chance to do the necessary housekeeping.
While on the topic of lost records, I can't stress
enough the importance of backing up your files. In the
case of TaskBase, the important file skeletons are
*.db?, *.ntx, and *.mem. Routinely backing these
files up to ANOTHER DISK will save you alot deal of
headaches at some point in the future. If problems do
occur, simply copy the backup files back to the
TaskBase disk or directory.
3.0 When/If Problems Occur
If you have problems running TaskBase, try the following
suggestions:
- Ensure that your CONFIG.SYS file allows for at least 20
files and 20 buffers, i.e., it should contain the
following lines:
BUFFERS = 20
FILES = 20
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 18
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NOTE: If you have problems running some large
application programs from within TaskBase, you may have
to set the `files' value even higher to ensure that DOS
has enough file handles available.
- Ensure that you have plenty of disk space available.
- While you may put the actual TASKBASE.EXE file in any
directory, as long as it is in your search path, all
other files must exist in the directory from which you
start TaskBase. If not, TaskBase will give you an
error message stating that the necessary files don't
exist. NOTE that this does not apply to the help
files, however, if you do want to use help, they must
be in the current directory.
While we have done our best to make sure that problems don't
occur, Murphy's Law says that we have missed some little bug
which is sure to pop up as soon as someone else goes to use
TaskBase. Software updates are generally marketed by
touting new, improved features, but they also serve to fix
bugs which were missed in the previous version of the
program. If you think you have found a bug, please complete
the attached comment sheet, or call Paradigm Software
Systems, to make us aware of it so that we can address the
problem in future updates. In return, we will provide you
with a free update as our way of saying THANKS!
The worst bug you can find will result in an error message
appearing at the top of your screen. If this occurs, please
record the message EXACTLY so that we have a clue as to
where the problem has occured. Also try to describe the
sequence of events which lead to the problem.
4.0 Wrapping it Up!
We hope you find TaskBase to be as helpful as we have. The
key to success is inventiveness in selecting your
categories, AND religously updating your entries. Like
anything, TaskBase will only be as useful as the effort you
put into it, however, it provides you with a unique platform
to effectively track your commitments, and their status,
with a minimum of effort.
Finally, we would appreciate it if you would take a few
moments to print/complete the `TaskBase Comments' sheet
(file COMMENT.FRM) to let us know what type of enhancements
you would like to see in future versions.
We want to make TaskBase work for you!
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 19
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5.0 Warranty / License Agreement
5.1 Warranty
The magnetic media on which the TaskBase software is
recorded is warranteed to be free from material defects for
a period of one year from the date of shipment. If a defect
should occur during this time frame, simply return the
original diskette to Paradigm Software Systems for a
replacement. NOTE: Paradigm Software Systems will not be
responsible for replacement of a faulty diskette which has
been physically abused.
The TaskBase software is provided as-is, without
warranty of any kind, either express or implied. Paradigm
does not warranty the suitability of the TaskBase
system for any particular purpose. The availability of a
demo version of the TaskBase system provides the
end-user with sufficient opportunity to determine applicability
of the TaskBase system for the intended purpose.
In no event shall Paradigm Software Systems be liable
for any direct, incidental or consequential damages
attributable to the use of this software.
5.2 Software Licensing Conditions
Use of the TaskBase system denotes acceptance of
the following conditions:
5.2.1 Paradigm Software Systems is the owner of the
TaskBase system. You do not purchase the
software, but a non-exclusive license from
Paradigm Computer Systems to use it.
5.2.2 The TaskBase system may be used on only a
single computer at any given time. You may make
backup copies of the master disk for safekeeping
purposes, however, the copies may not be distributed
to others.
The TaskBase system may be placed on a network
provided that a license has been purchased for each
network node having access to the TASKBASE.EXE file.
5.2.3 The program/documentation are copyrighted by Paradigm
Software Systems. You may not remove or conceal any
copyright notice appearing on the program or in the
documentation.
5.2.4 The TaskBase system contains computer code
which is proprietary information of Paradigm
Software Systems. You may not decompile, translate,
reverse engineer, or disassemble this program, nor
create any derivative works from it.
TaskBase 1.2 USER'S GUIDE Page 20
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5.2.5 You may transfer ownership of the TaskBase
license provided that the following conditions
are met:
a. You permanently transfer all copies of the
program in your posession, including the
master disks, backup master disks, and copies
which may exist on your hard drive, AND
b. the recipient accepts all terms of this
license agreement.
5.2.6 This license agreement remains in effect until
you return the program to Paradigm Software
Systems, or properly transfer or destroy all
copies of this program in your possession.
5.2.7 Breaching any of the aforementioned license
conditions is sufficient grounds for Paradigm
Software Systems to terminate the license
agreement. In particular, unauthorized distribution
of the TaskBase system may result in legal
action to reclaim damages due to Paradigm Software
Systems.
If you do not accept these terms, return this package
unused within 30 days and you will be given a full
refund.
** TaskBase 1.2 Comment Form **
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Your comments about this software and its documentation are very valuable
to us! We exist only to provide the user with a commitment tracking
system which is comprehensive but simple to use. Our only method for
knowing about necessary changes is from you, the user.
Name: ____________________________________________
Company: ____________________________________________
Title: ____________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________
____________________________________________
City,State: __________________________ Zip ____________
Phone: _________________
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** COMMENTS **
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