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AUTOMAN User guide
AutoMan - Automatic Network Management Software
Version 1.01
Thank you for purchasing AUTOMAN software, or if you
are viewing a shareware version, for taking the trouble to
obtain it!.
If you are familiar with installing and running network
software, you will probably be able to install the program
and get it running within minutes. However you will not be
able to reap the full benefits from the program until you
have fully read the manual.
!!! - Important notes
Experienced PC users will find this product compatible in
"look and feel" to many other products on the market, and
therefore easy to use. There are however a few features
available that cannot be found under menu options, which
are identified with !!!. Users who prefer to postpone the
reading of the manual for a few months would be well
advised to at least scan through the manual for all items
marked !!!.
If a README. file exists on your distribution disk, PLEASE
READ IT FIRST !
All information in this manual is accurate at the time of
publication. GO Software however reserves the right to
update the software and manual without notice.
AUTOMAN - A SHAREWARE PRODUCT
Automan is available as a shareware product. If you have
not yet purchased the software, and are viewing a
shareware version of the program, we hope you will find
the program useful.
A few words about shareware
You should think of shareware software as "Try before you
buy". Therefore you are free to use and distribute this
product as you wish, for evaluation purposes. If you then
decide that you wish to continue to make use of the product
a registration fee becomes due. Payment should be made
by crossed cheque, in UK Sterling. Payment in other
currencies can normally be arranged. See section entitled
Payment terms at the end of this manual.
Upon receipt of this fee you will be sent :
1] Disks containing the latest version of the software,
without a registration screen !
2] Additional utility programs
3] An easy to read, indexed, bound manual
4] Access to telephone support
Additionally we may have
5] A choice of DOS versions for the DOS help
6] Help files in other European languages. Please specify
any other language required on the order form.
An order form can be printed from within the program
under an option in the help menu.
At the time of purchase you can also purchase future free
updates which will be despatched as they become available.
Future developments will include the improvement of the
editor, and an increase in the number of parameters able to
be specified. Any suggestions passed to us will be gratefully
received and may appear in future releases.
****************************************************************
When distributing software please distribute the file AUTOM.EXE.
This will save you both time and money, and will ensure that all
files are distributed together.
****************************************************************
SOFTWARE SUPPORT
Whether or not you have yet purchased the software, if you
should have any problems with the software, feel free to
write or fax us, we will do our best to solve your problem.
Go Software
York House
Cross Road
Heald Green
Cheadle
Cheshire
England
United Kingdom
SK8 3LW
FAX : 44-(0)-625-536763
Preface
Liability
Go Software accept no responsibility for any loss, directly
or indirectly, due to failure or inability to use the software,
or for failure of the software itself. While every effort has
been made to ensure that this manual is accurate GO
Software accept no responsibility for loss due to inaccurate
data in this manual.
Copyright Restrictions
YOU ARE FREE TO MAKE AND DISTRIBUTE AS MANY COPIES OF THE
SOFTWARE (INCLUDING ALL PROGRAM AND DATA FILES) AS YOU WISH.
All products supplied remain the property of GO Software.
Software is supplied on a "Licence to use" basis only. Any
distribution, modification or copying of any manuals (except
those contained in a file with the program), except for back-
up purposes, is strictly prohibited. This software must not be
re-sold.
Copyright 1991 by GO Software, all rights reserved. No part
of this manual may be reproduced in any manner
whatsoever without express written permission of Go
Software.
Rights of ownership are limited by the copyright laws of the
United Kingdom. It is against the law to reproduce any of
this manual in any way without express written consent of
GO Software.
A single copy of the manual may be made for BACK-UP
PURPOSES ONLY!
Network Use
The program was designed to help administration of
networks. It is not however designed as a multiuser
program, and the Software license permits the AUTOMAN
files only to be used by a single machine at any one time. If
you do not comply with this requirement you are not only
breaking copyright restrictions but also you risk losing some
or all of your AUTOMAN configuration.
Details of site licences are available on request.
The licence to use remains effective until terminated. You
may terminate it only by destroying all literature, software
and copies of the software. The licence will also be
terminated should any of the licence conditions be broken.
Trademarks
IBM is a registered trademark of International Business
Machines Corporation
MS-DOS Is a registered trademark of Microsoft corporation
Novell is a registered trademark of Novell Inc.
Contents
AUTOMAN - A SHAREWARE PRODUCT
A few words about shareware
SOFTWARE SUPPORT
Preface
GO Software Guarantee Conditions
Copyright Restrictions
Trademarks
Acknowledgements
Contents
Introduction
System Requirements
Package Contents
Updates
Installation
AutoMan Tutorial
Configuration
0 Help
1 Installation help
2 Command line options
3 Utility Programs
4 Getting Started
5 Inserting a new parameter
6 The AUTOMAN text editor
7 Main menu options
8 Getting the most out of AUTOMAN's features.
Appendix A - Automatic load of AUTOMAN
Stage 1
Stage 2
Appendix B - Error Messages
Appendix C - Trouble shooting
DOS Batch file problem sheets
Appendix D - Warranty
Conditions of Sale
Index
Introduction
The software, for IBM compatible PC's and the DOS
operating environment consists of one executable program,
one help file and a number of utility programs. The program
allows the user to create a parameter file which holds the
operational information. All files, with the exception of the
AM*.* utility programs, must be kept in the same directory.
AutoMan runs on any IBM Compatible PC with at least 256K
of free RAM.
AUTOMAN has the following features :
1] Automatic file processing
Automan will automatically process any batch, executable or
command file, at any time, on any day or days throughout
the year. This allows network maintenance tasks which had
previously been an annoying chore, to simply disappear.
Once installed and configured, the program will soon be
saving you so much time you will wonder how you ever
managed without it!
Automatic file processing allows you to free yourself from
network chores like clearing down transaction files and
sending messages at set times each day. It allows users to
have utility programs run at fixed times, and database
reports automatically generated right at the end of the week.
It allows network supervisors to automatically run Anti-Virus
programs every hour, and receive weekly reports on the
status of the network. It allows the automan PC to
automatically become a communications gateway PC each
night.
Various utility programs supplied with the full Automan
version allow simulation of keyboard input, such as AMFILL
which fills the keyboard buffer with characters, or AMNUM
which will take control of the Num Lock key. These can be
used within batch files to automate the operation of virtually
any PC program.
Configuration is done by inserting up to 250 "Parameters".
Each time a parameter is processed, a record is placed in the
Transaction Log file, the program unloads itself, the batch
file or program is run, and the program then re-loads itself.
This operation ensures that the system does not restrict the
memory available to run programs.
Configuration takes place under options contained in the
Edit menu, A Command string can be passed to any batch
file or program, and functions within Automan allow you to
pass the current day, date and time as command string
parameters to the file at the time of processing.
[Section 5 - Inserting a new parameter & Section 8
2] Disk space monitoring
Ensuring you maintain adequate disk space on network
disks can be a major task. Once you have a few users
making simultaneous use of the print server you can soon
fill up all remaining disk space and cause programs to start
failing. Automan will monitor space on all of your drives and
warn you of any disk that is filling.
You simply specify the minimum space that you can allow on
the network, and Automan runs a warning batch file (which
you create) when the space drops below this critical level.
Automan DOS utility programs allow you to create both a
visible and audible warning of the problem within the
warning batch file.
[Section 7.51 - Monitor menu - Disk status & Section 8]
3] Monitoring of critical data recording activity
File status monitoring allows you to be warned if a critical
data recording PC on the network has failed. Applications
may be for example, to monitor a Shopfloor data collection
or Telephone logging PC. Once configured, Automan will
monitor files to ensure that recording is still active. Any
failure of recording will result in the processing of a
warning batch file.
[Section 7.52 - Monitor menu - File status & Section 8]
4] Integral Batch file editor / De-bugger
The Automan editor is designed for editing batch files. The
standard pull down menu options make using the editor
straight forward.
You can merge files, change the case of the text, and cut
and paste text [Using Shift & cursor keys to highlight the text
to modify].
View the current "DOS" screen at any time by pressing F4,
or jump into a DOS shell with Shift F4.
View Structure allows you to view all the statements which
affect the flow of the batch file [For example, CALL and IF
statements].
Using the menu option, or the F8 key, you can run any of
the batch file statements individually from within the editor,
allowing you to check each line as you write it. You can
even run the whole batch file from start to finish from within
the editor, with break points allowing you to stop operation
on any line in the batch file.
[Section 6 - The AutoMan text editor
5] Context sensitive & DOS help
On-line, Context sensitive help is available for every DOS
command you can think of (And all of those that you can't,
which you can access through the DOS help menu). You
wont have to look at your DOS manual again! Of course,
comprehensive help on all aspects of Automan is also
available via the F1 key.
[Section 0 - Help]
6] Other features
Shell Options allow you to build in your own menu of
programs which may relate to Automan. For example you
may need to frequently load a program enabling you to
grant directory rights to Automan. Including this program in
the Automan menu will mean the program is instantly
available to you at all times.
External editor allows you to specify a text editing program,
allowing you to continue to use your favourite text editor to
edit batch files if desired.
There are two modes of Automan. The first is monitor mode
when the program automatically carries out tasks for you.
The second is menu mode, in which you configure Automan
parameters, set-up disk and file monitoring, and create and
debug batch files if required. On-line help on all DOS
commands is also available in this mode.
The program normally displays a screen showing
parameters which are being monitored (Referred to as the
MONITOR SCREEN). Menu options are accessed by
pressing the ALT key. After the ALT key has been
pressed, and until the program returns to the monitor
screen, the program is said to be in MENU MODE. While
the program is in menu mode, monitoring of any kind
ceases.
Although ideally the program should be active throughout
the day, thereby monitoring disk and file status at all times, if
machines are scarce, merely loading the program at night
each day will still ensure that all parameters are processed -
the system will "Catch up" on any parameters that are
overdue.
You may distribute the software provided with this program,
though you must not re-produce the manual.
System Requirements
AUTOMAN requires an IBM PC or compatible Personal
Computer with at least 256K of free RAM and DOS, version
3.30 or higher. No hard disk is necessary. The program will
run on a standalone PC, however the purpose of the
program is to ease maintenance of networks, therefore the
PC ought to be connected to a PC network. The slowest of
PC's will allow you to use AUTOMAN very successfully,
however you may find that certain programs you choose to
run with AUTOMAN require a faster speed, or a higher
specification.
Testing has been carried out on many standard networks,
including NOVELL, and operation was found to be
completely satisfactory. The program is unlikely to cause
any problems on any network.
Package Contents - FULLY LICENCED VERSIONS ONLY
1 x AUTOMAN Manual (This manual !)
1 x Registration Card
2 x 5.25" / 3.5" Program disks Containing
Automan programs
AUTOMAN.EXE Main executable program
AUTOMAN.HLP Help file
AUTOMAN.PRM Blank parameter file
INSTALL.EXE Installation program
AUTOMAN.LST Manual listing
And possibly
README. - Additional information
Utility programs
AMSLEEP.EXE
AMFILL.EXE
AMCAPS.EXE
AMNUM.EXE
AMAPPEND.EXE
AMBEEP.EXE
AMREBOOT.EXE
+ Other Utility Programs developed since release of Version 1.00
Demonstration batch files
NOSPACE.BAT
EXAMPLE.BAT
Should any of these items be missing or damaged when you
receive the package you should immediately contact GO
SOFTWARE.
Updates
You many have purchased one or three free updates of
future versions with AUTOMAN. These will be sent on to
you as new versions are completed.
If you report any bugs in the software a corrected copy will
additionally be distributed free of charge, provided you
have purchased the software.
If you find the program is limiting you in some way, or if you
have any suggestions on how to improve the program, we
would be only to pleased to hear from you.
Installation
[For shareware installation, simply unzip the files into a
single, preferably empty directory, then continue from option 6.]
Installation is fairly straight forward provided you follow the
following simple procedure. Help on installation is available
at any time by pressing F1. Press ESC to exit help.
Make a back-up copy of the disks!
1. Turn on the computer from which you wish to install the
software and boot DOS.
2. Logon to the network, ensuring that you have full access
to the drive and directory which you wish to install the
software onto.
3. Place AUTOMAN disk 1 in a local drive
4. Type
A:INSTALL or B:INSTALL
depending on which drive the disk is in
5. Follow the instructions on the screen, pressing the enter
key when required, after each selection:
Enter the drive letter which you want to install the
software onto.
Enter the directory on this drive which you want to
install the software into. (The software will create the
directory if required, if it does not exist).
Enter the drive letter to install the software from (The
same drive as selected in 3.)
If all the parameters that you have specified are correct
press the Y key to initiate installation. Pressing N will return
you to the top line of the install program allowing you to
change any parameters as required.
Installation of the software is now complete.
6. Now can run the software by changing to the directory
you installed the software into and typing
AUTOMAN
[You may instead type the full pathname of the program
ie F:\P\AM\AUTOMAN]
[If you have installed the software into a directory
which has a search mapping to it you may simply type
AUTOMAN from your current directory.]
7. Configure the software as described in the chapter
Configuration.
8. Finally you should configure your network so as to
automatically load the program when you boot the computer
that the program is going to run on. Further details of this
are provided in appendix A.
AUTOMAN runs the parameters you specify in the
parameter file by creating a batch file called
AUTOMANB.BAT, exiting the AUTOMAN.EXE program
and running that batch file. Once the required file has been
run, the AUTOMANB.BAT reloads AUTOMAN.EXE and
awaits it's next operation.
It is therefore crucial that you give AUTOMAN full rights in
the directory that it's programs are stored in. You must also
ensure that this batch file, and the AUTOMAN parameter
file, AUTOMAN.PRM is never flagged as read only.
This operation also ensures that you will have the maximum
memory available to you for running any executable files
specified. AUTOMAN takes up effectively no memory
overhead!
AutoMan Tutorial
Once installation is complete, and before any configuration
takes place (While the AUTOMAN.PRM file is still 120
bytes in size), a tutorial can be run. This tutorial explains a
number of basic configuration options of the program, and
demonstrates ways in which the program may help you. We
would advise you to run this tutorial if you are not familiar
with the software.
The tutorial is made up from help pages, which are also
available via the help key (F1), and the Other Automan help
menu (Accessed by pressing TAB after F1). These will be
available at any time for reference in the future.
The option to run the tutorial will be given after the initial
introduction information pages.
Configuration
0 Help
1 Installation Help
2 Command line options
3 Utility programs
4 Getting started
5 Inserting new parameters
6 Automan text editor
7 Main menu options
8 Getting the most out of Automan
0 Help
There are two types of help available to you within the
program, Automan operational help and Dos command help.
All operational help is listed in the configuration section of
this manual, Dos help is only available via the Automan
program (Although this information will be duplicated in a
more enhanced form in your Dos manual). Dos help is
based on version 3.30.
Help is accessed in the program by pressing the F1 key.
You will probably find it more convenient to refer to the
help there than in this manual when actually configuring,
although you may find this useful for a general overview.
1 Installation help
See Installation Section
2 Command line options
/M
Immediately brings the program straight into Menu mode,
equivalent to a user pressing the ALT key. AMFILL could
be used to access the menu further.
filename
Immediately brings the file into the Automan editor,
provided the filename is valid.
3 Utility Programs
Various utility programs are provided which will enable you
to do even more with batch files than you can already.
Useful hints on ways you might use them are provided.
Help on each of these programs can be obtained by typing
the filename without any parameters.
You will probably find these programs more useful if you
keep a copy of them in a directory which has a search
mapping to it. (See you DOS reference manual for more
information.
!!! AMBEEP Causes the computer to emit a number of beeps
AMFILL Fills the keyboard buffer with any characters
AMCAPS Turns the caps lock key on / off
AMNUM Turns the number lock key on / off
AMSLEEP Puts the computer to sleep for any number of seconds
AMAPPEND Appends text to the end of a text file
AMREBOOT Reboots the PCAMBEEP
This causes the computer to emit a number of beeps. The
format of the command is :
ARBEEP To emit one beep
ARBEEP n To emit n beeps at 1 second intervals.
Press ESC to abort.
AMFILL
This forces characters into the keyboard buffer. It can be
used in batch files, therefore allowing the computer to
simulate keyboard operation of an operator. Up to sixteen
characters can be forced into the buffer.
The format of the command is as follows :
AMFILL characters
Where characters can be any mixture of the following,
Any normal keyboard character
Any ASCII character, entered as it's ASCII number
enclosed in curly brackets {}
Therefore the command,
AMFILL 1{13}3{9}Y{27}{27}
Would simulate the following keyboard input,
1
ENTER
3
TAB
Y
ESC
ESC
Cursor movement commands can also be incorporated as
follows,
Cursor Left {0}{75} Right
{0}{77}
Up {0}{72} Down
{0}{80}
Page Up {0}{73} Down
{0}{81}
Home {0}{71} End
{0}{79}
Insert {0}{82} Delete
{0}{83}
Other control key combinations can be found out by using
the AMFILL utility without specifying any parameters in the
command line. You will then be prompted for a keypress,
upon which the keys code(s) will be displayed.
AMCAPS
This allows you to turn the CAPS LOCK key on or off as
required.
The format of the command is either,
ARCAPS ON .... Turns the CAPS LOCK on, if it isn't
already on.
or
ARCAPS OFF .... Turns the CAPS LOCK off, if it isn't
already off.
AMNUM
This allows you to turn the NUM LOCK key on or off as
required.
The format of the command is either,
AMNUM ON .... Turns the NUM LOCK on, if it isn't
already on.
or
AMNUM OFF .... Turns the NUM LOCK off, if it isn't
already off.
AMSLEEP
This will make the computer wait for a specified number of
seconds, unless any key is pressed, which will call the
program to terminate. The format is as follows :
ARSLEEP n
Where n is an integer number of seconds to pause for.
AMAPPEND
This allows you to append a single line of text to the end of
any text file. The format of the command is as follows :
AMAPPEND filename string
Where filename is the text file which you want to append to
String is the data you want to add.
AMREBOOT
This allows you to reboot the PC. The Format is :
AMREBOOT OK
4 Getting Started
Once you have installed the software you are ready to start
configuring the system for your requirements. All
configuration is done via menu options. There are three
areas which you may wish to configure, corresponding to
the three boxes that initially appear on your screen:
!!! 1) Disk space monitoring
This allows you to receive a warning whenever network
disk space drops below a critical level. Any number of
drives can be monitored simultaneously.
!!! 2) File monitoring
If you have a PC on the network which records critical
information (eg. telephone call logging), you can monitor
that recording is still active, with this option.
!!! 3) Parameter processing
This allows you to run almost any batch, .exe or .com file
automatically at any time on any day or days you choose
during the year. During processing the program has near
zero memory overhead, so the only constraints are
provided by the PC which you run the software on.
Press ALT to access the menu.
Individual menus can also be accessed directly by holding
down the ALT key while pressing the first letter of that
menu (ie ALT E for Edit menu).
Batch file format
No special additions must be made to any batch file you wish
to run. You should however be certain that you CALL all
child batch files and do not simply specify them in the file.
For instance if you want to run a batch file called
CHILD.BAT from within a batch file you are operating
through AUTOMAN you must specify it in a call statement,
ie,
CALL CHILD.BAT
You should also ensure that you explicitly specify all drives,
directories and print queues you want to use, in each batch
file that you write. You will certainly encounter problems if
you assume that the current drive and directory when the
batch file is processed is always going to be, say
F:\P\AUTOMAN.
Always start the batch file by specifying a new default drive
and changing to a new default directory, unless of course
you simply want to enter one line in the batch file containing
a full path name.
Be sure not to change any drive mappings that are used by
the automan system to new drives. So doing may cause
operation to cease.
5 Inserting a new parameter
ALT Edit Insert
This displays a window which allows you to enter the
required parameters. Pressing the ESC key at any time
returns you to the menu, WITHOUT SAVING any
modifications made. The current parameter number, and
total number of parameters are displayed in the top right
hand corner of the window. The maximum number of
parameters that can be inserted is 250. The following fields
are available for data entry :
Time [Obligatory] The time to run the
parameter
Date The date (or code) to
run the parameter
File [Obligatory] The .BAT, .EXE or
.COM file to be run
Comment A comment for your
reference only
Directory [Obligatory] The directory the file is
stored in
Command$ A command line to be
passed to the file
Pressing F4 at any time displays the last DOS screen, and
Shift F4 takes you temporarily into DOS (Type exit to return
to program).
File formats The AUTOMAN parameter file - AUTOMAN.PRM
AUTOMAN.PRM contains all configuration information
about the system. If any problem occurs with loading
parameters it will almost certainly be because of a problem
with this file.
The parameters are as follows :
PASS The system password
DEF The default batch file directory
EDIT An external editor
AUTO Automatic generation of batch file headers (0 off / 1 on)
MD0 Disk monitoring parameters
MF1 File monitoring parameters
SHL1 Shelled program specifications
These are followed by the timed parameters eg :
01:00:00 ALL 0.BAT
F:\AUTOMAN\BATCH\
5.01 Inserting a new parameter - Time field
This field allows you to specify the time the parameter is to
be run. Enter the time in the format HH:MM:SS [ie 12:49:30].
If you do not enter the time in the correct format the
program will try to correct it for you, but if it is still not
correct you will hear a beep and be unable to continue to
the next option.
You are also unable to specify a time which already exists,
or a time between 23:59:50 and 00:00:10. Neither can a time
finishing at 1 or 2 seconds past each minute be specified.
This is to avoid possibility of a conflict between monitoring
and parameter processing, Disc monitoring being carried
out at 1 second past the minute, while file monitoring takes
place at 2 seconds past the minute.
The program will naturally try to process every parameter
exactly on time. However, if a parameter runs for a length of
time such that the following parameter is overdue, the
program upon reloading will immediately run the overdue
parameter. This ensures that the program will always
process every entry made in sequential order although not
necessarily exactly on time.
To cancel this continuous processing hold down ALT as the
program is being re-loaded and access the Options Reset
automan option.
5.02 Inserting a new parameter - Date field
!!!
This field can have a large number of varying parameters.
If your entry does not correspond to one of these
parameters the computer will again beep and not allow you
onto the next entry. The possible entries are as follows:
Blank
If the date field is left blank the entry will only be processed
on working days of the week, ie Monday to Friday
inclusive.
DD
A number which represents the Nth day of the month [ie 02
for the second day of the month]. The entry will then be
processed only on the Nth day of each month.
DD/MM
Representing the Nth day of the Mth month. [ie 02/09 would
correspond to the second day of the ninth month]. The
entry will then be processed only once per year on this day.
ALL
The entry will be processed on everyday of the year,
including Saturdays and Sundays.
MON-SUN
You can specify the entry to run only on a certain day of the
week.
Valid entries are : MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN
FMON-FSUN
You can specify that the entry is only run on the first day of
any month, ie the corresponding entry for the first Monday
of each month would be FMON. Valid entries are : FMON
FTUE FWED FTHU FFRI FSAT FSUN
LMON-LSUN
This allows you to run entries only on the last day of each
month.
ie FSUN would run the entry only on the last Sunday of
each month. Valid entries are : LMON LTUE LWED
LTHU LFRI LSAT LSUN
5.03 Inserting a new parameter - File field
This is the file which will be processed when the time
criterion are met.
!!!
You can specify either a batchfile [.BAT], executable
[.EXE] or a command file [.COM] in this option. The default
extension which will be added if no other is specified is
.BAT
Pressing RETURN with a blank field will display a list of
files for the default directory, and allow you to search
through directories for the individual file you require, by
specifying different paths.
The file need not necessarily already exist, you will be
warned if it doesn't. If the file does not exist, and you have
specified a batch file, you will be given the option to create
it after you have entered all the other parameters. If it exists
you will be given the option to edit it if it is a batch file.
Creation and editing of batch files can normally be carried
out with the AUTOMAN text editor, which contains an
integral DOS debugger. Specifying a batch file allows you
to run a number of executable and DOS commands
together, whereas an executable, perhaps specified with a
command line argument, will keep the overall system tidier.
5.04 Inserting a new parameter - Comment field
This is for your reference only and allows you to easily see
what each entry does.
If you subsequently choose to create the entry's batch file,
this comment together with the file name and default
directory, will be automatically entered at the top of the
batch file, if Options Automatic Headers is set on.
5.05 Inserting a new parameter - Directory field
Directory Specify here the drive and directory which the
file to be run is held in. ie F:\P\AUTOMAN\
You must always specify a full path name, ie drive and
directory. You will be given the option to create the
directory if it does not already exist, but will not be able to
proceed to the next option until the directory does exist.
5.06 Inserting a new parameter - Command$ field
Specify any command line which you want to pass to the
program.
!!!
There are additionally four options which you can use, by
themselves or in conjunction with any other parameters, in
this field as follows :
!DATE
This is converted to the date at the time of processing, which
allows you to pass the current date to a program. The format
of the date is European (DD/MM/YYYY).
!ADATE
As !DATE but returns date in American format
(MM/DD/YYYY)
!TIME
This is converted to the time when the file is processed. The
format of the time is HH:MM:SS
!DAY
This is converted to the short name of the day of the week
at the time of processing. The format will be MON TUE
WED THU FRI SAT or SUN.
A command string entered as for example,
TODAY IS !DAY THE !DATE. IT'S NOW !TIME.
might result in the following command line being passed to
the program,
TODAY IS WED THE 31/01/91. IT'S NOW 12:13:14.
6 The AUTOMAN text editor
Editing and creation of files can be done with the built in text
editor which allows editing of files up to 500 lines long, and
seventy nine characters wide (More than enough for all but
the longest of batch files).
The AUTOMAN Text editor menu is accessed by pressing
F10, or by holding down the ALT key and pressing the first
letter of a menu (ie E for Edit menu). ALT R will not
however display the Run menu.
Press ESC to exit the AUTOMAN editor.
Your current line, and number of bytes free in the editor is
displayed at all times on the bottom line.
This editor has a few features that will allow you to create
batch files more quickly than you have in the past, with
fewer errors.
If a new file is being created the filename, directory, title &
date and time which the file was created on are automatically
entered into the first three lines of the file as comments, if
Options Automatic Headers is set on.
The editor also incorporates some debugging options.
The scroll bar on the right of the editing screen shows your
current cursor position relative to the position of the last line
of text in your file.
The editor is simple to use, but does not incorporate word
wrap (which is not suitable for creation of batch files).
The AUTOMAN text editor - Menu options
Shortkey
File Save F6
As new file
Exit Esc
Merge with
Print F7
Dos Shell Shift F4
Edit Insert line ALT I
Delete line CTRL Y
Upper case
Lower case
Proper form
Cut
Paste
Copy
View Dos F4
Search Find
Repeat last find F3
Change
Run Step F8
Batch Shift F5
Continue F5
Debug Breakpoint toggle F9
Clear breakpoints
The AUTOMAN text editor - Editing functions
Most standard cursor movement keys are supported.
Cursor right and left can be used to move the cursor without
disturbing the text which it is moved over. Home and End
move the cursor to the beginning and end of the line
respectively. Page up and down displays the next and
previous screens respectively. Insert toggles the editors
insert mode on and off. Delete deletes the character at the
current cursor location. Pressing backspace normally
removes the character preceding the cursor
location and moves the cursor one position to the left, but if
the cursor is in the first column the previous line will be
removed, provided the line contains no text.
ALT-C clears a line of all text, while ALT-R will restore the
text originally in place before any editing was carried out.
6.10 The AUTOMAN text editor - Menu options - File menu
Save F6
Saves the current file under it's original name. Any previous
version of the file is automatically overwritten.
As new file
Saves the file under a new file name. If the file exists you
will be warned so, and must confirm that the file is to be
overwritten.
Exit Esc
Exits the editor and returns program to the main Automan
menu. If any changes have been made to the document, the
program will ask you if you want to save the file. If the file is
not saved, all changes to the document will be lost.
Merge with
This allows you to merge the current text file with another
text file (The merge file). The merge file is inserted at the
current cursor line position. If the file is invalid or to large to
be merged no merging will take place. Selecting this option
will prompt you for a merge file name. This can be any valid
filename, and need not be a full path definition.
Print
This option will print the current file held in memory to your
LPT1 port.
Dos Shell Shift F4
Loads a version of the command processor. This is also
available at any time in the editor using Shift F4. The last
Dos screen is also restored before the command processor
is loaded. Type EXIT to return to the program after
selecting this option.
6.20 The AUTOMAN text editor - Menu options - Edit menu
Insert line ALT I
This inserts a blank line at the current cursor position.
Delete line CTRL Y
This deletes the line at the current cursor position.
Upper case
This converts the whole file to Upper case (Capitals)
Lower case
This converts the whole file to Lower case ("Small letters")
Proper form
This converts the first letter of each label or remark to
upper case, and the remainder of the string to lower case.
Cut, Paste and Copy
These three options allow you to delete, move or copy
more than one line of text within the file.
Cut and Copy both take a copy of selected text and hold the
text in memory. Cut however removes the text from the file,
while copy leaves the text unchanged.
Selection of text is carried out by holding the shift key down
while using the cursor movement keys. Selected text is then
highlighted. Cursor keys supported are Up, Down, PG Up,
PG Down, CTRL-Home, CTRL-END. CTRL-Y (Edit /
Delete line), acts in the same way as Cut, by selecting,
deleting and holding a copy of a single line in memory. This
can therefore be pasted elsewhere in the file.
Paste inserts the text last selected into the file in the line
above the current cursor position. Pasting cannot take place
if there are insufficient free lines at the end of the file, or if
no text has previously been selected.
6.30 The AUTOMAN text editor - Menu options - View menu
View F4
This temporarily restores the last Dos screen to enable
viewing of the last actions in DOS. Press any key to return
to the Automan program screen.
View structure
This shows the basic structure of the batchfile, the
statements which affect the program flow. All labels, .BAT's,
CALL's GOTO's and IF's are shown. This is for viewing
only, press ESC to return to edit mode.
View remarks & structure
As view structure, but additionally shows remarks.
6.40 The AUTOMAN text editor - Menu options - Search menu
Find
This allows for location of any string of characters in the
file.Searching is carried out without regard to capitalisation.
Enter the characters to be searched for and press return.
Searching can then be repeated using the repeat last find
option.
Repeat last find F3
Repeats a search for the last "Find" requested.
Change
This allows changing of text. The string to be searched for
must be entered, followed by the string that this will be
replaced with. Searching for text begins on the first line.
Confirmation is required for each change - press Y to
change the text, N to leave the text unchanged.
6.50 The AUTOMAN text editor - Debugging functions
One of the problems with batch files is that they are normally
difficult to get right first time. The AUTOMAN editor gives
you a number of debugging functions to make your batch
file writing easier.
Step by step processing
Run current batch file from start
Run current batch file from current line
Breakpoints
View DOS Screen
Exit to DOS
6.51 Debugging functions - Run current batch from start
Menu F10 Run Batch
Short key Shift F5
This "Runs" the current batch file from the start to finish,
unless a breakpoint is encountered, where execution will
stop. Batch file execution is step by step.
See also Step by Step processing.
!!!
Execution also can be stopped by holding down the ALT
key.
Note: A file being edited in the editor is not saved until you
save it. You are therefore advised to save the file regularly
while developing a batch file, especially while using the
Debug options. Use F6 to save quickly.
6.52 Debugging functions - Run batch from current line
Menu F10 Run Continue
Short key F5
This option is similar to run batch file from start, but this
"Runs" the current batch file from the current line to finish,
unless a breakpoint is encountered, where execution will
stop. Batch file execution is step by step. See also Step by
Step processing.
!!! Execution also can be stopped by holding down the ALT
key.
Note: A file being edited in the editor is not saved until you
exit the editor. You are therefore advised to save the file
regularly while developing a batch file, especially while
using the Debug options. Use F6 to save quickly.
6.53 Debugging functions - Breakpoints
Menu F10 Debug Toggle Breakpoint
Short key F9
To clear breakpoints
Menu F10 Debug Clear breakpoints
Breakpoints will cause batch file execution to halt when
processing reaches that line. Any number of breakpoints
can be set.
Breakpoints can be removed using Toggle Breakpoint [F9],
which will toggle the current line to or from a breakpoint, or
by Debug Clear Breakpoints, which clears all breakpoints.
Data in the file is not affected in any way by breakpoints.
Use breakpoints to stop execution just before a place where
you know there is a problem. Using shift F5 will then run the
batch file straight to this point.
6.54 Debugging functions - Step by step processing
Menu F10 Run Step
Short key F8
The AUTOMAN editor provides a debugging feature,
which allows you to execute commands one by one
(Provided free memory allows) allowing you to check each
command as you write it. Either the short key or the menu
option causes the current line to be executed in DOS.
AUTOMAN then switches to the DOS screen, and once the
command has been processed displays the original and
current path, remaining in this screen until another key is
pressed, when AUTOMAN returns to the editing screen.
!!!
If a line to be debugged contains AMFILL, AMFILL and
the following statement will be processed together.
!!!
Note: There are limitations to the effectiveness of this
debugger.
Each command is processed individually in a new "Shell",
therefore new DOS memory variables cannot be set, and
commands that branch to elsewhere in the batchfile will
have no effect. Other commands may not necessarily work
so be aware of this possibility! This manner of operation also
means that the amount of memory you have available is
restricted. Do not expect to be able to run large executable
programs with this option.
Note: A file being edited in the editor is not saved until you
exit the editor. You are therefore advised to save the file
regularly while developing a batch file, especially while
using the Debug options. Use F6 to save quickly.
6.55 Debugging functions - View DOS screen
Menu F10 View Dos
Short key F4
You can view the DOS screen at any time while in the editor
by pressing F4. This allows you to re-view the result of the
last DOS command.
6.56 Debugging functions - Shell to DOS
Menu F10 File Dos shell
Short key Shift F4
Exit to DOS temporarily at any time while using the editor by
pressing Shift + F4. To return to the program you must type
EXIT and press return.
7 Main menu options
7.11 File Menu - Open file
This allows you to open and edit any text file, without having
the file specified within a parameter.
The TAB key can be used to toggle between the two
windows. A file highlighted in the second window will be
retrieved when the return key is pressed. A different file
specification can be placed in the top window to display
other files.
7.12 File Menu - Print
This allows printing of a number of system text files. Files
are printed to the LPT1 port, unless it is not ready, when
you will receive a warning to that effect.
Parameter file
This prints the AUTOMAN parameter file,
AUTOMAN.PRM.
All entries which you have created, and any defaults set are
held in this text file.
Log file
This option prints this AUTOMAN.LOG system log file.
Current batch
This will print the file in the currently displayed entry,
provided it is a Batch file.
7.13 File Menu - Shell
This displays a sub menu allowing access to DOS Shell, or to
an external program specified in Options Shell menu option.
Shell Menu - DOS Shell [Shift F4]
Immediately exits to a DOS shell. To return to the program
type Exit and press return.
It is most important that you remember to return to the
program after using this option. Failure to do so may result in
programs you use subsequently to "Crash".
This option is also available at all times once in menu mode
by pressing Shift F4.
7.14 File Menu - External Editor
This option allows you to load an external text editor to allow
you to overcome the width and length restrictions of the
Automan editor. If a batch file is displayed as the current
parameter, it will be loaded provided the editor accepts a
filename on the command line.
The editor is merely run in a "Shell", therefore the amount
of memory you have available within the editor may be
limited.
Once the editor is left you will immediately be returned to
Automan.
Use Options Menu / External editor to define an external
editor path.
7.15 File Menu - Exit Automan
Exits AUTOMAN after a confirmation message has been
acknowledged. This is also available when in monitor mode
by pressing ESC.
7.16 File Menu - Information
This displays information about the currently selected file.
The date is in European format (DD/MM/YY).
Size is the number of bytes in the file.
Lines is the number of lines in the file (Batch files only).
7.21 Edit Menu - Insert a parameter
This allows you to insert a new parameter.
A parameter is a record which has information on a file to
process and a time to process the file at. See section 5 for
more information.
7.22 Edit Menu - Delete a parameter
This allows you to delete a parameter that has been
previously entered.
This firsts displays the list of current parameters.
Once a parameter has been selected, confirmation is
needed that the current parameter is to be deleted. Press Y
to delete the entry, N to return to the Edit menu.
Pressing ESC returns you to the Edit menu without deleting
any parameters.
7.23 Edit Menu - Search
This allows selection of a new parameter. Once selected the
parameter is displayed in the parameter processing window,
allowing the other edit menu options to be used on the file.
7.24 Edit Menu - Edit Parameter
This allows for changing of all the fields which were set in
the Insert parameter option. See Insert parameter for
further help.
7.25 Edit Menu - Copy this parameter
This makes a copy of the currently selected parameter,
without the time to allow editing of one or all of the items.
7.26 Edit menu - Process
The currently selected parameter will be immediately
executed when this option is selected.
This will not affect future processing of either the selected
parameter or any other parameter by the system, and may
indeed result in the same parameter being processed twice
in a row.
A log of the transaction is made in the log file, with the word
OPER placed in the record.
7.27 Edit Menu - File
Provided the currently selected parameter is for a batch file,
this option enters the AUTOMAN editor, loading the
selected batch file. See AUTOMAN Text editor for further
help.
7.31 View menu - Calendar
This displays a calendar.
The current date is highlighted (or flashes). Move from
month to month using cursor left / right. Move from year to
year using cursor up / down.
7.32 View menu - DOS Screen
This allows you to switch to viewing the current DOS
screen.
This option is also available at all times while in menu mode
by pressing F4
7.33 View menu - Log file
This allows you to view AUTOMAN.LOG system log file.
Use CURSOR DOWN and CURSOR UP to move through
the file line by line.
Use PAGE DOWN and PAGE UP to move through the file
page by page.
Use CURSOR RIGHT an CURSOR LEFT to view text to
the right or left.
Use CTRL HOME to go to the top of the file.
Use CTRL END to go to the last line of text in the file.
The scroll bar and scroll arrows give an indication of your
where your current viewport is, relative to the file as a
whole.
Transaction Log Format
Each time an entry is processed, the all data associated with
that file is recorded in the text file AUTOMAN.LOG.
The data recorded is as follows :
Actual Day, date & time entry was processed
Parameter Planned Date & time for process or, OPER, if the
file was processed from the menu.
A record of whether the file to be run did not exist. (This is
left blank if the file existed, but set to NO FILE if the file did
not exist).
The file that was run (Or should have been run).
The parameters which were passed to the file at the time.
This file can also be printed from a menu option.
7.41 Options menu - Default file directory
This sets a default directory for your batch files.
When inserting a new batch file the system will automatically
assume that this is the directory which you want to create the
file in. If no default file directory has been defined the
default file directory will be taken as the directory from
which AUTOMAN was loaded.
7.42 Options menu - External editor
This sets the path for an external editor, to allow editing of
larger batch files from within the program.
Enter a full path name, or simply an .EXE or .COM file
which can be found on a search path, eg. either
F:\PUBLIC\DOS\EDLIN
or
EDLIN Provided EDLIN can be found on a search path
Use the File Menu / External editor option to load the editor.
The currently selected batch file will be automatically
loaded if the editor is able to accept a file name as a
command line option.
7.43 Options menu - Reset Automan
This Deletes the AUTOMANB.BAT system file, and resets
the Automan system to process parameters only from the the
current time.
!!!
Automan relies on a batch file, AUTOMANB.BAT, stored
in the same directory as AUTOMAN, to know which
parameter to process next. Parameters are always
processed sequentially, even though an "Overrun" or
system crash may cause a subsequent parameter to be
processed late.
If you wish to cancel sequential processing, and start afresh,
with parameters only being processed from the actual
current time, you must select this option.
Parameter processing - Order of processing
!!! Each time AUTOMAN loads, entries are processed as
though the time is one second after the time the last program
was run. This, together with the restriction on parameters
times to unique times, ensures that all entries are processed,
but means that entries are not necessarily processed at the
exact time that they should be.
For example, if an entry that began processing at say
12:30:30 lasted half an hour and the time the next entry was
due to start, was say 12:30:45 AUTOMAN would run the
second entry at about 13:00, half an hour "Late".
AUTOMAN will only run an entry if the program is
displaying the monitor screen (ie not in Menu Mode).
To interrupt constant processing, hold down the ALT key
as the program is being re-loaded.
7.44 Options menu - Password
This allows you to define a password for entry into the
menus, or exiting the program. Confirmation of the
password must be given. All leading and trailing spaces are
trimmed from the password.
If the password is forgotten it can be deleted by modifying
the first line of the parameter file, deleting the scrambled
text after PASS:.
You are likely to want to give Automan considerable rights
on your network. These would also be available to anyone
who had access to the machine if no password is specified.
Even if a password is specified, a user could still gain access
to Automan by CTRL-BREAKing the Automan process
batchfile when a parameter was being processed. To avoid
risk of this we advise you to additionally lock the machine in
a separate room, especially if an Auto-Login procedure has
been set-up (Another opportunity to gain access to
Automan's rights).
7.45 Options menu - Automatic headers
This toggles Automatic headers on and off.
!!!
Automatic headers on will result in the file name, directory
and creation time being automatically placed on the first
three lines of a newly created batch file.
7.46 Options menu - Shell options
This allows you to build your own sub menu of external
programs which may relate to AUTOMAN.
This may for example be used to define a program which
can be used to allocate rights to users, (Or Automan!) so that
you don't need to constantly move between the two
programs.
The options are then accessed via the File / Shell menu.
The two sub menu options available are :
Insert option
Prompts for a new menu option. Options can either be a full
path name or files held on a search path.
Delete option
Displays a menu of all current options, allowing deletion of
one option.
7.51 Monitor menu - Disk status
Allows you to install disk monitoring.
This allows you to be alerted if the space on any of your
network drives is dropping below a critical level.
The fields to be filled are very similar to the Insert
parameter fields and are as follows.
Warning batch file
The batch file which will be run should the disk space fall
below the minimum value.
Drive & Directory
The drive and directory which this file is to be stored in.
Drives to be monitored
The drive letters of any drives to be monitored. Up to 26
drive letters can be monitored simultaneously, allowing you
to monitor the maximum number of drives.
Monitor space
Here, specify the minimum number of bytes which must be
available before you are warned of a problem. If any drive
space falls short of the number of bytes specified the file
you specified in Warning batch file will be run. The letter of
the Drive or drives that failed will be passed to to the batch
file as a command string.
Monitor interval
Specify, in minutes, the time to elapse between each check.
7.52 Monitor menu - File status
This allows monitoring of status on up to three files. The
specified warning batch file will be processed if the file to
be monitored has not changed in the period between two
successive system file monitor checks.
Warning batch file
The batch file which will be run should the monitored file
not change in between checks.
Drive & Directory
The drive and directory which this file is to be stored in.
File to be monitored
The full path name of the file to be monitored.
Monitor start and finish times.
Specify the times to start and end disk monitoring, the
monitor period.
Monitor interval
Specify, in minutes, the time to elapse between each check.
This should be greater than the maximum time that the file
could remain unchanged, within the monitor period.
7.53 Monitor menu - Reset Monitoring
These options allow you to reset disk or file monitoring.
Once selected you must confirm that monitoring is to be
reset. Monitoring reset removes all monitoring fields.
7.61 Help menu - Help
Provides on-line help on aspects of the program.
Available at all times while in menu mode by pressing F1.
7.62 Help menu - About automan
Displays information about Automan.
7.63 Help menu - Order Automan
Prints a form to allow easy ordering of the program.
7.64 Help menu - Register
This option allows you to remove the Delayed Registration Screen
once you have purchased the Software. Removal of the screen is
done by supplying the program with a "Key" number.
Once you have purchased the program, select this option, then
answer No to the question "Have you obtained a key ....". Select
Yes to print the Key Request Form to your local LPT1 port.
Answer the questions with appropriate answers for your Company.
If you do not have a fax number your key will be returned by post.
Please return the form by Fax (Preferably) or Mail to Go Software.
We will then return your key number.
Once you have the Key Number, select this option again, answering
Yes to "Have you obtained a key..." and enter the key number. If
the correct key number is entered the key will be saved to disk
and the registration screen will then only appear briefly after
AutoMan has loaded.
The key number is stored in the file AUTOMAN.REG
8 Getting the most out of
AUTOMAN's features.
The following provides you with a guide as to areas which
you may find useful to automate.
!!!
Disk monitoring
File monitoring
Transaction file cleardown
User Messages
Spreadsheet macros
Report generation
Report distribution
Mainframe Gateway file transfer
Network configuration
Disk monitoring
One of the commonest problems with networks is that of the
network disks filling. The Disk Monitoring option allows
monitoring of the status of any network hard drives that
AUTOMAN has access to, thereby giving you warning of
any such problem before it occurs.
When you use this option you must specify the critical
number of bytes which should be kept available and the
drives which you want to check. If any drive space falls
short of the number of bytes specified, the file you specify
will be run, with a parameter passed to it of the Drive or
drives letter[s] that failed.
For example, suppose you have four drives (or volumes) on
the network, F G H and I. If you want to receive a warning
if any of these have less than 5 MB free you might enter the
following as parameters.
Warning batch file NOSPACE.BAT
Drive & directory F:\P\AUTOMAN\BATCH\
Drives to be monitored FGHI
Monitor space 5
Monitor interval 1
The batch file, F:\P\AUTOMAN\BATCH\NOSPACE.BAT
might have the following format, for a Novell network,
SEND "LESS THAN 5MB FREE ON %1:" TO
EVERYONE
Which, if prompted by only 3MB being free on drive F
would result in the following message being sent to
everybody logged on to the network.
FROM AUTOMAN>> LESS THAN 5MB FREE ON F:
File monitoring
This allows you to monitor whether a file is changing within
a set period of time.
Suppose you have your companies PABX connected to a
PC on the network, recording information about phone calls
that have been made. You will want to ensure that this PC
has not failed, and you can do this by seeing if the file has
changed within a certain period of time. If it has not changed
in this time it is likely that the computer is no longer
recording data (although of course, in this case, it may also
mean no phone calls have been made in the period - hence
ensure you specify a sufficiently long monitoring period!).
You could perhaps use the following configuration :
Warning batch file TELDEAD.BAT
Drive & Directory F:\P\AUTOMAN\
File to be monitored F:\P\TEL\PHONE.LOG
Monitor start Time 09:00:00
Monitor end Time 17:00:00
Monitor interval 5
Where F:\P\TEL\PHONE.LOG is the file to be monitored.
For a Novell network you might use the following batch file,
SEND "CHECK STATUS OF %1" TO EVERYONE
If at 09:00 the PHONE.LOG file had not altered in the
previous five minutes this would then result in the following
message being sent,
FROM AUTOMAN>> CHECK STATUS OF
F:\P\TEL\PHONE.LOG
Transaction file cleardown
Many systems generate log or journal files which will
eventually fill the disk if not maintained. Novell is no
exception, creating the file NET$ACCT.DAT in the
SYSTEM directory, which records when users logged
on/off.
This information is rarely required for more than a few
weeks after it has been recorded and can therefore be
cleared down in some manner.
You could set up the following parameter line to clear down
a file on the first day of each month, at 02:00 in the morning,
when the file is unlikely to be being used,
Time 02:00:00
Date 01
File CLEARLOG.BAT
Comment CLEARDOWN A LOG FILE
Directory F:\P\AUTOMAN\
The batch file may be as follows,
F:
CD \P\AUTOMAN
COPY AUTOMAN.LOG AUTOMAN.OLD
DEL AUTOMAN.LOG
Even AUTOMAN needs some management !
If it is necessary to keep a copy of the logfile, why not
instead copy the file on to the end of a full logfile, using say
COPY AUTOMAN.ALL + AUTOMAN.LOG
AUTOMAN.TMP
DEL AUTOMAN.ALL
REN AUTOMAN.TMP AUTOMAN.ALL
then compress AUTOMAN.ALL using one of many file
compression programs, then delete AUTOMAN.ALL,
leaving just the compressed file.
If you compress the file, remember to decompress the old
full log file as the first command in the batchfile!
User Messages
How many times have you sat down at a PC at about the
same time each day and sent the same message to all users
on the network? For instance, must everyone logout for
your lunchtime back-up, or do you ask people to collect
consumables every Monday morning? Any messages like
this can be easily set up to automatically be sent whenever it
is required. For a Novell the parameter you might need is as
follows,
Time 12:55:00
Date
File SEND.EXE
Comment LOGOUT FOR LUNCH
Directory Z:\PUBLIC\
Command $ "TIME FOR LOGOUT AND LUNCH" TO EVERYONE
Spreadsheet macros
Many spreadsheets surprisingly still do not include the
ability to run a macro from the command line. This would
normally severely limit the amount of automation that could
be achieved for various processes, however AMFILL will
allow you to overcome this by first filling the keyboard with
the commands necessary to run any macro. Note that
AMFILL need not necessarily be used within a batch file
run by Automan, you could use it within any batch files.
Report generation
Use the AMFILL program to allow you to automatically run
a report from within a program and then exit.
For instance, suppose you have a database program called
SALES which records sales (Surprised?) data for your
company, and which has a program option numbered 4
which produces a report of sales made that week. Suppose
Escape needs to be pressed from the main menu to return to
dos.
You could set-up AUTOMAN to run the following batch file
every Sunday night at 11:00, giving you a report on Monday
morning of sales for the previous week :
F:
CD \P\SALES
CAPTURE Q=PQ1
:The following command fills the keyboard buffer with a 4
and an Escape.
AMFILL 4{27}
: ^ Starts the report running (Option 4)
: ^ Exists the program and returns to DOS
:The following command loads the database program
DATABASE SALES
Many options are available with AMFILL. See the section
entitled Utility programs for more information.
Report distribution
If any of your companies reports are redirected to files,
(and they almost certainly all can be - with Novell use the
CAPTURE CR=filename command) and you have a good
print server, you can distribute reports weekly automatically
around the company.
Perhaps you have a production report which is always
complete by Tuesday night. Set up a batch file to run at say
23:00:00 every Tuesday which prints the report to a number
of print queues as follows (Sorry this applies to Novell
again),
CAPTURE Q=PQ1
COPY F:\PRODUCT\REPORTS\OUTPUT.TXT LPT1
CAPTURE Q=PQ2
COPY F:\PRODUCT\REPORTS\OUTPUT.TXT LPT1
etc
Mainframe Gateway file transfer
If you have a PC Network to Mainframe gateway which
allows for command line driven file transfer, you may be
able to set-up the system to automatically process user
transfer requests at set times during the day.
The low memory requirement of AUTOMAN, together with
the way it processes jobs, should enable operation in
conjunction with all gateway programs to be trouble free.
Use the AMAPPEND utility program to allow users to
append transfer requests to a single transfer batchfile.
Suppose the gateway program which queues files for
transfer is called QFILE. Users could append to the transfer
batch file with the following format.
CD F:\P\AUTOMAN
AMAPPEND F:AMQFILE.BAT QFILE OUT
F:\P\XFILE.DAT :TRANS.XFILE
Where OUT indicates transfer from the PC network to the
Mainframe, and the following two entries represent network
and Mainframe names respectively.
If AUTOMAN is set-up to run the AMQFILE.BAT file, files
will be transferred to (or from) the Mainframe whenever the
parameter is processed.
Network configuration
Operation documentation is rarely kept up to date or printed
out when it ought to be. It would be good practise to
develop documentation on day to day running of your
network, ensure it is maintained by always working to it, and
print a hard copy of all your network documentation once a
month. Then if your operators should be away you will at
least have some chance of avoiding total chaos!
Start by creating a text file listing jobs along with a time that
they need to be carried out. Then create a batch file that
runs say once a month under AUTOMAN, which prints
absolutely all your configuration information out. You may
be able to use AMFILL to gain additional information from
Spreadsheets or Word-processors.
The batch file may appear something like this,
CAPTURE Q=PQ1
COPY F:\D\CONFIG\OPERATE.DAT LPT1
COPY F:\P\AUTOMAN\AUTOMAN.PRM LPT1
COPY F:\P\GATEWAY\GATEWAY.PRM LPT1
Appendix A - Automatic load of AUTOMAN
In order to make AUTOMAN's operation as simple as
possible you should devote some time to making sure that it
will be loaded automatically whenever you re-boot the
machine that you want it to run on. This will ensure minimum
problems when you down the server or the power fails.
The process can be split into two stages, the first being
common to all machines, regardless of which network they
are to attach to. The second stage is that of attaching to your
particular network. The basic approach for a Novell
network is outlined.
Stage 1
Ensure a suitable network card is fitted in the
AUTOMAN machine and that you know the
configuration of the card. For security of data, you
should place the machine in a secure room which can
only be accessed with a password, number or key.
Format a floppy disk as a system disk. This will be
outlined in your machines DOS manual, but the
basic command you will need is
FORMAT d: /S
Where d: is the drive to be formatted.
You may then need to add or adjust the
CONFIG.SYS file depending on which programs
you intend to run with AUTOMAN. AUTOMAN
requires that CONFIG.SYS should be set up with at
least the following settings,
FILES=10
BUFFERS=5
It is more likely for other programs that you will
need to set both to at least 20.
See your DOS manual and each program manual
for further information.
Create a text file called AUTOEXEC.BAT on this
floppy. Use any suitable text editor (One will have
been supplied with your version of DOS).
Stage 2
Novell Networks
Think of a new user name for the AUTOMAN system
to logon as [AUTOMAN might be a suitable user name
perhaps].
Copy the network drivers IPX.COM and NETx.COM,
for the configuration of the installed Network card and
DOS version, to the floppy disk.
Edit the AUTOEXEC.BAT file on the floppy disk,
adding the commands
IPX
NETx
to the end of the file. Follow these with
F:
LOGIN username
Where username is the name you thought of in part a.
Create a new user in SYSCON with the name you
thought of in part a.
Using SYSCON, restrict the allowable login addresses
to only that of the AUTOMAN machine (Refer to your
Novell manual if you are unsure of how to do this).
Disable the requirement for a password (If desired and
the machine is secure)
Give the AUTOMAN user as many rights as necessary
to enable it to run all the required programs.Alter the
user's login script so that a drive is mapped to the
directory where the AUTOMAN programs are stored.
Use perhaps,
MAP W:=FS1/SYS:\P\AUTOMAN
Ensure that you have given the user rights to this
directory.
Edit the AUTOEXEC.BAT file on the floppy to include
the following,
W: or any drive as specified previously
AUTOMAN
Your completed batch file should now read something like this :
IPX
NET3
F:
LOGIN username
W:
AUTOMAN
You would also be wise to include a command to cast-
off messages from the Automan PC. This will ensure
that execution of the program will continue undisturbed
by all messages.
Exit the editor and boot the AUTOMAN machine for
testing.
If you have trouble please consult the appendix on trouble
shooting and thoroughly read this and your network manual
before seeking assistance from us.
Appendix B - Error Messages
All error messages that appear are normally self
explanatory.
Any file or channel errors are accompanied with a file
name which caused the error. More often than not,
errors in connection with files, will be caused by
insufficient rights in a directory, or attributes of a file
being restrictive. Normally all files must be Non-read
only, Non-system and not hidden.
Memory errors, or total system crashes, are likely to
occur only when you push the program to it's absolute
limits and ignore warnings of reduced available
memory. If you have a large amount of memory
resident software loaded, giving only a small amount of
memory free, you are likely to encounter these
problems sooner.
Other errors are likely to occur only if you try to force
incorrect data into fields. You should at all times take
note of the in-built de-bugging features and act on all
informative messages.
Do not alter the parameter text file with a text editor as
this is more than likely to cause conflict or corruption of
the file. The file is provided in text form merely to allow
easy listing from within batch files / DOS.
Appendix C - Trouble shooting
If you have any problem firstly break the situation down
into discrete small modules so that you can be sure
EXACTLY what the problem is.
Your Rights!
The most likely source of problems that you will
encounter is that you have insufficient rights in a
directory, or to a file, that you are trying to use. It is
quite likely that you will soon develop the system to use
many directories and files, and the best way to ensure
that you have rights to the various directories, and do
not make mistakes in the batch file, is to use the debug
options in the editor.
Automatic log on
If you are having problems automatically booting the
computer you should first print out the
AUTOEXEC.BAT file on your floppy and execute the
commands step by step. This will allow you to isolate the
exact location of the problem
The two most likely problems are that the username
either doesn't exist, or that you do not have sufficient
rights in a directory.
Editing of files inoperable
The most likely cause here is that the file has been
flagged as read only. You can usually change this by
using the following command on the file :
ATTRIB -r filename
Batch file problems
If there is a problem with the operation of a batch file
firstly ensure that the batch file works satisfactorily from
the DOS command line, that is when you as opposed to
AUTOMAN initiate it. If it does not work then, you
have to solve the problem, but the hints on this page
may help you.
Should the problem be within AUTOMAN and you fail to
find the cause of it, please take a copy of the following
pages and fill them in. Also list out the offending batch file
and directory by directory, as specified in the file, list your
rights in that directory. The command for finding your rights
in a directory will be found in the network manual.
Then please enter all pieces of paper in an envelope, and
write to our address, or fax them direct to our fax number,
available within the program.
DOS Batch file problem sheets
TO: Return Address:
GO Software
York House
Cross Road
Heald Green
Cheadle
Cheshire
England
United Kingdom
SK8 3LW
FAX : 44-(0)-625-536763
Your name
Your companies Telephone
Your companies FAX
Should be
DOS Version (type ver) Greater than 3.30
Network in use
Network version
AUTOMAN Serial number
Licensed to
Drive AUTOMAN programs are stored on
Directory AUTOMAN programs are stored in
The AUTOMAN User's rights in this directory FULL
The result of running ATTRIB on AUTOMAN.PRM
The result of running ATTRIB on AUTOMANB.BAT
The amount of memory on in your computer Greater than 512K
The amount of free memory before AUTOMAN is loaded
(Use CHKDSK A:?)
The company that manufactured the computer AUTOMAN uses
The model of computer AUTOMAN uses
A full description of the problem, here :
Appendix D - Warranty
As terms and conditions of use of this software, GO Software
accepts no liability whatsoever for direct, incidental or
consequential damages or loss, such as, but not limited to,
loss in anticipated profits or benefits, caused by malfunction
in any way, of the software, or it's misuse, or any defect with
the software, or any of the goods supplied with it.
By using this software the purchaser accepts that any such
faults are not able to be claimed for in any way against GO
Software, or any of the persons involved with the company,
or of any companies distributing the software.
This warranty states the purchasers specific legal rights and
conditions of use. It does not affect or in any way diminish
any statutory or legal rights.
Conditions of Sale
Prices
Prices quoted from GO Software to any company
remain valid for the following twenty eight days. After
this period Go software may change prices without
prior notice. However any user currently in possession
of a shareware version of the product may pay the
price contained in the literature and code of that
product.
Delivery
Delivery of all goods to destinations elsewhere in the
UK is paid for by GO Software, except where special
delivery has been requested, or where installation /
consultancy has been requested, when travelling
expenses, and when necessary any other expenses as
necessary, must be paid for by the purchaser. Delivery
will only be made to the order address. Delivery my
standard mail to destinations outside the UK will be paid
for by GO Software. Any special deliveries however
must be paid for by the purchaser.
Payment terms
Credit terms
(Subject to satisfactory references when required). For
official company orders, payment shall be made on or
before the 28th day after delivery.
Cash with order
Payment for the order total, including VAT should be
made by crossed cheque payable to GO Software.
GO Software is VAT registered in England No. 561
1642 61
Foreign Currency.
A cheque raised in most western foreign currencies
(eg. US$, French Franc, German DM etc.) can be
accepted BY ARRANGEMENT (You MUST get in
contact with us first! - Fax us and we will normally reply
the following day.). The amount payable will be the
equivalent, at the current exchange rate, of the Sterling
price.
Index
About automan, 47
AMAPPEND, 18
AMBEEP, 16
AMCAPS, 18
AMFILL, 17
AMNUM, 18
AMSLEEP, 18
AutoMan Tutorial, 11
AUTOMAN.EXE, 10
AUTOMAN.PRM, 10,21
AUTOMANB.BAT, 10
Automatic load, 57
Batch file format, 20
Batch file problem sheet, 63
Batch file problems, 61
Breakpoints, 34
Change, 32
Command line options, 15
Command$ field, 26
Comment field, 25
CONFIG.SYS, 57
Configuration, 12,20
Contents, vii
Copy this parameter, 39
Copyright, v
Cut, Paste and Copy, 31
Date field, 23
Debugging functions (Editor), 33
Delete line, 31
Directory field, 26
Disk monitoring, 45
Disk space monitoring, 19
Disk status, 45
Dos Shell, 30
Edit menu (Editor), 31
Editing functions (Editor), 29
Error Messages, 60
Exit (Editor), 30
External Editor, 38
File field, 25
File menu (Editor), 30
File monitoring, 19
File status, 46
Find, 32
Getting Started, 19
Getting the most out of AUTOMAN, 48
Guarantee, iv
Help, 13,47
Help, DOS, 13
Information, 38
Insert line, 31
Inserting a new parameter, 21
Installation, 8
Installation help, 14
Introduction, 1
Liability, iv
Lower case, 31
Mainframe Gateway file transfer, 54
maximum number of parameters, 21
MENU MODE, 3
Menu options (Editor), 28
Merge with (Editor), 30
Monitor interval, 45
MONITOR SCREEN, 3
Monitor space, 45
Network, v
Network configuration, 56
Open file, 37
Order of processing, 43
Package Contents, 6
Parameter processing, 19
Proper form, 31
Repeat last find F3, 32
Report distribution, 54
Report generation, 53
Reset Automan, 42
Reset Monitoring, 46
Run batch from current line, 34
Run current batch from start, 33
Save (Editor), 30
Save As new file (Editor), 30
Search menu (Editor), 32
Shell Menu, 37
Spreadsheet macros, 52
Step by step processing, 35
SUPPORT, iii
System Requirements, 5
The AUTOMAN text editor, 27
Time field, 22
Trademarks, vi
Transaction file cleardown, 51
Transaction Log Format, 41
Trouble shooting, 61
Updates, 7
Upper case, 31
User Messages, 52
Utility Programs, 16
View, 32
View menu (Editor), 32
View remarks & structure, 32
View structure, 32
Warranty, 65