13th DRAFT - Revised for Compiled Version 6.0 - 88-10-31
This software is distributed as ShareWare
User-Supported Software
Licensed under the terms and conditions noted herein
CREATIVE RESOURCES
773 Somerset Place
Concord, CA 94518
(415) 685-6387
COPYRIGHT 1984 - 1988 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
FOREWORD. _________
The accompanying disk contains the executable files, data
and memory variable files and report forms
(extension .EXE, .DBF, .DBX, .MEM and .FRM, respectively)
for QCHECK3 - the CREATIVE RESOURCES checking account
management system compiled using WordTech's QUICKSILVER
Diamond Release dBASE-III/dBXL compiler. Two modes of
operation are available. One is oriented toward the
generic (small to medium) business, while the other is
tailored toward personal use, both accessible from a
single program, QCHECK3.EXE. Version 4.x and 5.x included
the ability for the user to custom-define the suggested
memo codes for both business and personal checking
notations to best suit his or her own uses, user-defined
function key macros for "Pay-To" entries (with on-line
help for their definitions), and printer setup strings for
other printers. In addition, adequate disk space is
confirmed during key operations, to minimize the
possibility of loss of data from a "disk full" condition.
Version 6 further improves file handling for remote
subdirectories and different drives accessed, revises the
main menu for light-bar style access, adds on-line help
for the main menu selections, completely revises the edit
function for easier access to any entry, next, previous,
or any other location, on-line edit help, orientation by
listing of adjacent entries without leaving edit, and adds
the ability for user-definable screen display colors (if
you do not like those furnished), including both standard
keyboard and "point & shoot" selection of colors to be
used.
Alternatively, a source code versions of the above
programs are available on request, allowing customization
by the user, and standard dBASE/dBXL interactive commands.
The sample checkbook register data file is TEST3.DBF.
This sample documentation and outline contains notes on
the instructions on booting up the system, and suggestions
for use.
NOTE: THE COMPILED VERSIONS OF THE CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT
SOFTWARE WILL RUN "AS-IS", AND NO OTHER SOFTWARE IS NEEDED. THE
UN-COMPILED VERSIONS REQUIRE THE USE OF dBASE-III PLUS, dBXL, OR
FOXBASE, WHICH IS NOT INCLUDED HEREWITH.
This software is distributed as ShareWare - User-Supported
Software -- Licensed under the terms and conditions noted herein.
COPYRIGHT 1984-1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES - i - 88-10-31 COPYRIGHT 1984-1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES - i - 88-10-31 COPYRIGHT 1984-1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES - i - 88-10-31
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
REGISTRATION FORM REGISTRATION FORM REGISTRATION FORM ____________ ____ ____________ ____ ____________ ____
Please mail with your check or money order for the registration
fee. Upon registration, you will be sent the latest version of
the program and documentation, including source code (if
requested). You will also be advised of new versions when they
become available.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT IS ONLY AVAILABLE FOR REGISTERED USERS.
No. Floppy Drives ________ Size(s) 5.25 in 3.50 in
No. Hard/Fixed Disk Drives ________ Capacity (MB) ________
Operating System/version ____________ Total RAM installed ________
Monitor/video board type _________________________________________
Current Version of QCHECK3 being Registered: _____________
What do you like about QCHECK3? Please take as many lines as
necessary to express your opinion:
What don't you like about QCHECK3?
How could QCHECK3 be improved?
From what source did you acquire your copy of QCHECK3?
MAIL TO: CREATIVE RESOURCES - 773 Somerset Place - Concord, CA 94518
COPYRIGHT 1984-1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES - ii - 88-10-31 COPYRIGHT 1984-1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES - ii - 88-10-31 COPYRIGHT 1984-1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES - ii - 88-10-31
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
TABLE OF CONTENTS. TABLE OF CONTENTS. TABLE OF CONTENTS. _____ __ _________ _____ __ _________ _____ __ _________
Foreword i
Registration Form ii
1 Introduction & ShareWare License 1-1
2 System Requirements 2-1
3 Getting Started 3-1
Expanded Command Line Options 3-8
* 5 Program Options Descriptions 5-1
H - Main Menu Help (hidden) 5-2
0 - Exit to Operating System Level 5-4
1 - Enter New Checks & Charges 5-5
2 - Enter Deposits 5-8
3 - Enter Canceled Checks / Deposits 5-9
B - Browse Mode - Edit/Cancel Checks and
Deposits (hidden) 5-9
4 - Enter Canceled Deposits (hidden) 5-11
5 - Balance Inquiry/Reconciliation 5-12
6 - Print Reports of Checking/Deposit Activity 5-13
Printer Setup Strings 5-16
7 - List the Last Part of the Check Register File 5-20
8 - Edit the Check Register File 5-21
9 - Restart for New Check Register File 5-24
L - List or Export the Entire Check Register File 5-25
U - List Only Uncanceled Checks/Deposits 5-27
C - Create a New Check Register File 5-28
A - Adding Machine Routine (Calculate Amounts) 5-30
D - Date Utility Routine (Monthly Calendar) 5-31
M - Edit User-Defined Memos & Function Key Macros 5-32
S - Set Screen Display Colors (hidden) 5-34
6 Error Messages 6-1
Warning on Disk-Caching Software Usage 6-2
7 Suggestions for Users 7-1
Index I-1
Appendix
A Revisions Notes/History A-1
B Checkbook File Structure B-1
* - Note: Former Section 4 now moved to Appendix B
COPYRIGHT 1984-1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES - iii - 88-10-31 COPYRIGHT 1984-1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES - iii - 88-10-31 COPYRIGHT 1984-1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES - iii - 88-10-31
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Menu selections include new check/charge entry, deposit entry,
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
******************* S H A R E W A R E ******************
User-Supported Software
If you have received this program from another user and find it of
value, your $35 Registration Fee will support continued development.
Registered users will receive the latest version, be advised of
updates and future versions, and receive technical support.
NOTE: ONLY REGISTERED USERS ARE ENTITLED TO SUPPORT.
HELP SUSTAIN THE SHAREWARE CONCEPT - REGISTER YOUR COPY !
CREATIVE RESOURCES
773 Somerset Place
Concord, CA 94518
(415) 685-6387
Regardless of whether you register or make a contribution, you
are encouraged to copy & share this program as described below.
---------------------------------------------
SHAREWARE user-supported software is a bold concept in
distributing computer programs, first widely publicized by Andrew
Fluegelman with PC-TALK, and is based on two basic principles:
First, that the value and utility of software is best assessed by
the user on his/her own system. Only after using a program can
one really determine whether it serves your own individual,
personal applications, needs, and tastes.
Second, that copying of programs should be encouraged, rather
than restricted. The ease with which software can be distributed
outside traditional commercial channels reflects the strength,
rather than the weakness, of electronic information.
The user-supported concept:
Anyone may request a copy of a user-supported program by sending
a blank, formatted disk to the program author together with an
addressed, postage-paid return mailer. A copy of the program,
with on-disk documentation, will be sent by return mail on the
user's disk.
The program carries a notice suggesting a registration fee for
the program. Registering or making a contribution is voluntary
on the part of the user, however, it must be recognized that it
is only through registration fees that development costs are
defrayed and therefore allow further development. Users who do
not register are not rewarding honest efforts of the author, and
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Unregistered users will miss out on notices of upgrades, bug
fixes, information on other available software that may be of
interest, and most importantly, they are not eligible for
technical support. Also, any complaints or suggestions for new
or revised features will be more readily received from registered
users than from unregistered users.
If you obtained this software in the compiled form, the
registration fee will obtain for you the latest version of the
program, and (on request) a printed copy of the documentation,
and (on request) a complete source code listing on-disk for the
program. A registration form is located elsewhere in this user
reference manual, and also in a disk file for easy printing. In
addition to providing a means of identifying the users who
support this program, it also provides a way to advise the author
of any suggested changes or additions desired for future
versions.
The program may also be ordered by mail for an advance
registration.
Regardless of whether a contribution is made, the user is
encouraged to copy the program for trial use by others on a
private, non-commercial basis. Payment for use is discretionary
on the part of each subsequent user, BUT THE COPYRIGHT IS
RETAINED BY THE PROGRAM AUTHOR/ORIGINAL DEVELOPER.
*** NOTICE: Users of this program are granted a limited
license to make copies of this program for trial use
by others on a private, non-commercial basis.
This limited license does not include --
1. distributing this program in connection with any other product
except with written permission in advance from the author.
2. making the program available for any consideration except
a nominal 'disk fee' not to exceed $10.00
3. distributing the program in modified form.
Your cooperation will be appreciated.
NEWS FLASH !! - Also check with Creative Resources for
information on QLIB3 - a new ShareWare program for keeping track
of your collection of software by easily creating and updating
your personal, company, or user group software library catalog.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
SECTION 2 - SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS. ______ _____________
Minimum system (hardware and software) requirements are the same
basically as for dBASE-III/dBXL:
o IBM-PC or PC-AT Compatible computer system
(non-compatible MS-DOS computers need a special version
of QCHECK3, which will work even if standard dBASE-III
will not. Contact Creative Resources for more info.)
o 410k bytes of RAM (640 kB or more is Highly Recommended)
(up to 64kB of EMS memory can also be accessed by QCHECK3)
o PC/MS-DOS 3.1 or later
o Two or more floppy disk drives (360kB or greater cap'y)
or
One or more floppy disk drives and hard (fixed) disk
(HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
o 80 x 24 CRT or monitor, monochrome or color
o Printer (optional) (recommended)
All program (.EXE), memory variable (.MEM), report form (.FRM),
ERROR.TXT and the CONFIG.SYS files for the compiled version
require about 330kB of disk space. Additional space is used by
this documentation file. This compares with about 80kB of disk
space needed for the uncompiled versions, however, they require
the additional space for dBASE-III Plus or dBXL, for a much
higher disk space total (over 500k).
Before using them for the first time, it is highly recommended
that you make "working" copies of the "distribution" disk of the
compiled program files, and put away the original distribution
disk(s) for safekeeping. This is called "backing up" your
originals, and is outlined in the "Getting Started" Section,
below.
The total disk space needed depends on the size of the check
register data file(s). It is suggested that for very large files
that different data files be created for each year or account.
This also improves data security, and reduces the potential for
loss of large amounts of data if a catastrophic computer system
failure occurs. (Of course, we all back-up all our data on a
regular basis, so this isn't so important, is it??) Typically, a
500 record check register file (ie: 500 checks, charges and
deposits) requires about 36k of disk space.
The following sections outline the operations of the QCHECK3
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
SECTION 3 - GETTING STARTED. _______ ________
This documentation assumes a working knowledge of your own
computer system: how to turn it on, boot it up, format disks,
copy and delete files and programs, and run general application
programs, or that someone is available to assist in these areas
as needed.
Before beginning, prepare at least two working disks on which you
will place all the QCHECK3 command programs and check register
data files. It is suggested that a third disk be used for the
file containing the user manual, and to not store it on the
working disks, to save disk space on those disks.
FOR THE COMPILED VERSIONS: It is possible to put the operating
system, the checking account error, data and report files and the
checking account management program (BUT NOT this documentation
file) on a single 360kB disk, however, it is probably not a good
idea, to avoid the danger of inadvertently running out of disk
storage space as your checking data file(s) increase in size as
you add information to them. WARNING: IF YOU RUN OUT OF DISK WARNING: IF YOU RUN OUT OF DISK WARNING: IF YOU RUN OUT OF DISK
SPACE, THE PROGRAM WILL CRASH, YIELDING A QuickSilver RUN-TIME SPACE, THE PROGRAM WILL CRASH, YIELDING A QuickSilver RUN-TIME SPACE, THE PROGRAM WILL CRASH, YIELDING A QuickSilver RUN-TIME
ERROR #026, AND YOU MAY LOSE PART OR ALL OF YOUR DATA. BE SURE ERROR #026, AND YOU MAY LOSE PART OR ALL OF YOUR DATA. BE SURE ERROR #026, AND YOU MAY LOSE PART OR ALL OF YOUR DATA. BE SURE
YOU HAVE AT LEAST TWICE AS MUCH FREE DISK SPACE AS THE SIZE OF YOU HAVE AT LEAST TWICE AS MUCH FREE DISK SPACE AS THE SIZE OF YOU HAVE AT LEAST TWICE AS MUCH FREE DISK SPACE AS THE SIZE OF
THE CHECK REGISTER FILE YOU ARE USING (TO ALLOW FOR TEMPORARY THE CHECK REGISTER FILE YOU ARE USING (TO ALLOW FOR TEMPORARY THE CHECK REGISTER FILE YOU ARE USING (TO ALLOW FOR TEMPORARY
FILES THE PROGRAM GENERATES AS IT WORKS). A simple check is made FILES THE PROGRAM GENERATES AS IT WORKS). A simple check is made FILES THE PROGRAM GENERATES AS IT WORKS). A simple check is made
to help check for adequate disk storage space, but it can still to help check for adequate disk storage space, but it can still to help check for adequate disk storage space, but it can still
"miss-the-boat" in certain instances. The checking account "miss-the-boat" in certain instances. "miss-the-boat" in certain instances.
program and all associated working files will fit comfortably on
a single 360 kB or 1.2 MB floppy or 3.5" (720 kB or 1.44 MB)
disk. For 2-Drive systems (ie: floppy only...) that cannot (or
choose to not) accommodate all system tracks, the .EXE
program, .MEM and ERROR.TXT files, report forms and all data
files on a single disk, it is suggested that the operating system
files, the QCHECK3.EXE program, and the ERROR files be on the
same disk, usually A:, and all your check register (.DBF), check
memo variable (.MEM ) and color (.DBX) data files be on the other
disk, usually Drive B:. Hard (fixed) disk computer systems will
not have these problems (as well as being faster), and are
therefore recommended. (Note: See the end of this section for a
warning on the using QCHECK3 with "disk caching" software on hard
disks).
It is acceptable on hard disk systems that the Checking System
program, QCHECK3.EXE and data files be located in the same
subdirectory, as accidentally corrupting your software is less
probable than with the uncompiled dBASE-III/dBXL version. If you
choose to locate your .EXE files in a different directory, you
may need to invoke the MS/PC-DOS PATH command (refer to your
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
The following general steps are used to create a set of working
disks: a. Make a duplicate, backup copy of the original
software distribution disk.
b. Copy/extract the needed files onto one or more working
floppies, or your hard disk, and run the software.
Before we outline these steps in detail, you need to know that
for this entire user manual, the following format or convention
is used for User Input: <A> means type the single character A,
not the < or the >. Sometimes the computer will respond
immediately, other times you must also do a carriage return
( <ret> ). Also, when the text references <Ctrl> plus another
key, (ie: <Ctrl>-<S>), it means hold down the <Ctrl> key and then
type the other key, just as if it were another <Shift> key.
Also, <Ctrl> is often abbreviated by using the ^ symbol, such as
^S or ^P, etc.
To make a duplicate backup copy of the original software, on a 2-
floppy drive system:
o Insert a blank, formatted disk in Drive B:
o Insert the QCHECK3 distribution disk in Drive A:
o Now type: COPY A:*.* B: /v <ret>
Note: <ret> = carriage return
The QCHECK3.EXE program and all its associated files for
distribution cannot fit on a single floppy in their normal size,
so they have been condensed into a special compressed format
using the ShareWare utility PKARC/PKXARC into what is known as a
"self-extracting archive" file, which will fit on a single
floppy, and can create its own "expanded" files for running the
program. ( For more information and use of .ARC files, check
with your user group to obtain the latest version of the
excellent PKARC/PKPAK family of programs. )
To make a Working Copy of the QCHECK3 System on a floppy which
can be used to start or "boot-up" your computer, you would follow
these general steps: Insert the backup copy of the disk for
QCHECK3 in one of your disk drives, and extract those files
necessary for running the Checking Account Management System to
another blank, formatted disk, which may or may not contain the
operating system "boot" tracks and COMMAND.COM. Then extract the
data and some ancillary files onto a second floppy, and finally
extract the user manual onto a third different floppy. This task
has been eased by the use of three MS-DOS batch files,
EXTRCTB1.BAT, EXTRCTB2.BAT, and EXTRCTB3.BAT which are used,
respectively, for extracting to the first, second and third
blank floppies. On a 2-floppy drive system, with all system and
data files to be on a "bootable" disk in Drive A:, the procedure
for creating a working QCHECK3 system disk might be:
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
o Create a "bootable" floppy disk by formatting one with
the command: FORMAT B:/S <ret>. When done, remove the
disk from Drive B:
o Create one or more additional (non-bootable) floppy
disks by formatting one with the command: FORMAT B:
<ret>. When done, remove the 2nd disk from Drive B:
o Insert the blank, formatted working disk (with the
operating system and COMMAND.COM on it) in Drive B:
o Insert the QCHECK3 backup disk copy in Drive A:
o Now type: EXTRCTB1 <ret>
(Alternately, you can type:
QCHECK36 B: QCHECK3.EXE *.TXT *.MEM *.FRM <ret>
Then: QCHECK36 B: *.DB* *.SYS <ret>
o This copies the Checking Program (QCHECK3.EXE), the
xxxxx.MEM files containing function key macros and
check memo suggestions plus printer setup codes, the
Report Forms (CCHRPORT.FRM & DCHRPORT.FRM), a required
CONFIG.SYS file, a sample data file (TEST3.DBF), the
file for changing screen colors (COLORS.DBX) and the
QuickSilver ERROR.TXT file from the disk in Drive A:
onto the "boot" disk in Drive B:.
o Then insert your second working disk, for data, into
Drive B: and type: EXTRCTB2 <ret>
(Alternately, you can type: QCHECK36 B: *.DB* *.FRM *.MEM <ret>
o This copies the Checking Program sample data file,
memory variable files for user-defined function key
macros and check memo codes, printer setup codes,
colors, and the report forms onto a working data disk
in Drive B:.
o Then insert your third working disk, for data, into
Drive B: and type: EXTRCTB3 <ret>
(Alternately, you can type: QCHECK36 B: *.DOC <ret>
o This copies/extracts the user manual onto a working
data disk in Drive B:
o Remove the Backup QCHECK3 disk from Drive A: and
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Unless otherwise indicated, all examples in this manual assume
that drive A: contains the operating system and QCHECK3.EXE
program and ERROR.TXT files, and that drive B: contains the
QCHECK3 function key macro/memo (.MEM) files, report forms (.FRM)
and check register and colors data files (.DBF & .DBX). If this
is not so, please adjust your actions accordingly.
If you are working with a single floppy drive plus hard (fixed)
disk system, all programs and files may reside on the hard disk.
It is recommended that you create a separate subdirectory for all
your checking files, and then Change Directories [CD \(pathname)]
to make that your "default" directory before invoking the
checking account management system. This will make it easiest to
run, as you then need not enter either a drive designation (ie:
C:) nor path name (ie: \CHECKING) prefix to your filenames in
order to get the desired files. Two sample batch files
(PCHECK3.BAT and BCHECK3.BAT) are included that can automatically
use the \CHECKING subdirectory with a data file name for either
personal or business checking functions.
Regardless of whether you are using a floppy-based or hard disk
system, you MUST have a file in the root directory of your MS/PC-
DOS "boot" disk called CONFIG.SYS, and it MUST include the
following two lines somewhere in it:
FILES=20 (or greater than 20)
BUFFERS=20 (or greater than 20)
This is a requirement of dBASE-III Plus/dBXL and the QUICKSILVER
compiler, to avoid an error message "TOO MANY FILES OPEN AT
ONCE". (The reason for this is too technical to bother with
here, but can be found in a Technical Reference Manual for your
computer and operating system.) A sample of the minimum
CONFIG.SYS file to support the Checking System is included on the
distribution disk. DO NOT copy it over to your existing DOS disk
directly if you already have one. In that case, be sure that
your existing CONFIG.SYS contains those lines, and add or change
them to suit, using any ASCII line editor, such as EDLIN. If you
do not already have a CONFIG.SYS file on your "boot" disk, merely
copy the one included herewith over to your boot disk. You must
then "re-boot" the computer to make it be recognized.
Verify that all the required files are on the working disk (using
the DIR command or equal), and then remove the Checking System
distribution disk and store it away for safe keeping.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
The following files are included (for both personal and business
checking systems) on the distribution disk(s) for the COMPILED
VERSIONS:
GROUPS I & II - EXECUTABLE CHECKING PROGRAMS. ______ _ _ __ _ __________ ________ _________
QCHECK3.EXE Business and Personal Checking System Program
GROUP III - COMMON ROUTINES AND FILES _____ ___ _ ______ ________ ___ _____
FOR BUSINESS OR PERSONAL CHECKING. ___ ________ __ ________ _________
TEST3.DBF Sample Data File
CCHRPORT.FRM Checks Report Form File
DCHRPORT.FRM Deposits Report Form File
CONFIG.SYS Special PC/MS-DOS file configured for supporting
QCHECK3 usage on any computer system.
ERROR.TXT Special QuickSilver file configured for
supporting QS error messages.
BMEMFUNC.MEM File containing suggested memo codes and
function key macros for "Pay-To" entries for
business mode (user defined)
PMEMFUNC.MEM File containing suggested memo codes and
function key macros for "Pay-To" entries for
personal mode (user defined)
PRINTSET.MEM File containing the user-defined printer
setup codes.
COLORS.DBX File containing the user-definable color
codes for screen display colors (not needed
on monochrome systems or if the default
colors are not to be changed).
GROUP IV - REFERENCE FILES. _____ __ _ _________ ______
EXTRCTB1.BAT Batch file to extract files to the first
working floppy diskette.
EXTRCTB2.BAT Batch file to extract files to the second
working floppy diskette.
EXTRCTB3.BAT Batch file to extract files to the third
working floppy diskette.
CHECKING.DOC This Document - Reference Manual/User's Guide
BROWSE.COM A better way to display text files, used by
README.BAT
READMExx.xxx One or more files containing additional
information not included in the other
documentation.
PRINTDOC.BAT Batch file to ease printing this manual
Other files may also be included for your information or
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Once you have successfully transferred all the appropriate files
onto your working diskette (or hard disk), you are ready to try
the program(s). It is suggested that you read these instructions
and follow these steps while sitting in front of the computer, to
actually see what the messages and responses are, and to get
familiar with the program. Often, it is much easier to do it,
than to describe it or to understand it from the text alone.
To begin, turn on your computer, and "boot" it with either your
bootable working system disk, or any other "boot disk".
If your computer does not automatically read and set the
computer's system date, from an internal clock, it is recommended
that you enter the correct information manually first, to gain
maximum advantage of the file time stamping of PC/MS-DOS. Refer
to your PC/MS-DOS Reference Manual.
Then, again, at the operating system level (A\:> prompt), with
the QCHECK3 Checking Account Management System working program on
your working disk in Drive A:, and the Checking Account System
Data disk in Drive B:, type:
A\:> qcheck3 <ret> _______ _____
This invokes or starts up QCHECK3, automatically recognizing and
utilizing either color or monochrome video adapters as installed.
The screen will clear/erase, and the shareware and log-on
messages for the QCHECK3 Checking Account Management System will
appear. Either press any key to continue after reading the
message, or wait until it clears itself and proceeds
automatically. You will then be asked if you want to do Personal
or Business checking or if you want to Create a new check
register file.
If you wish to proceed immediately to create a new check register
data file you may do so at this time. Simply enter <C> for
Create. Then follow the steps outlined in the subsection on new
data file creation covered later in this section. The first time
you use QCHECK3, it is recommended that you "try it out" using
the furnished sample file, so either enter <P> or <B> as desired,
and then continue.
If you do not ask to create a new file, the program will then ask
for the check data file name to use. The first time you use this
program, the check register data file to use is (assuming your
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Upper or lower case letters are both acceptable. This file
contains sample data, and may be used to get some ideas of ways
to arrange your information to make it most useful and accessible
to you.
If you do not know, or cannot remember the name of your check
register data file, hit a carriage return/enter. The program
will ask you for the disk to search for possible files (with the
extension .DBF). If the logged (or "default") disk is the
correct one, simply hit a carriage return again, or enter the
correct disk drive designation (B:, C:, etc.) to check and then a
carriage return, and a listing of dBASE data files (in the
default directory) will be displayed for your information.
The program will again ask for the name of the check register
data file to use. Enter one of the filenames from the listing,
or the drive designation (optional), DOS pathname (optional), and
filename from another disk or directory, then a carriage return.
The program will check for the existence of that file, and if it
doesn't exist, will advise you with a screen message and then
loop back to the question for disk for directory listing. This
will continue until you either successfully enter an existing
filename or hit <Esc> to exit to the operating system. (Tip: If
you are having trouble getting QCHECK3 to accept your entry as a
valid file, check for typo's or mis-spellings of what you are
entering. Computers are dumb, and take things literally, even if
you know what you want, the computer might not...)
Upon entering the name of an existing file, its full drive, path
and filename will be displayed in the upper right corner of this
and most subsequent screens. The drive and path associated with
that file then becomes the "default" location of the check
register data file. This also means that all .MEM, .FRM and .DB*
files must be on the same "default" drive, but need not be on the
same drive as QCHECK3.EXE and ERROR.TXT.
BEWARE: Be sure to use a valid check register file for your BEWARE: BEWARE:
filename, as the program will yield unpredictable results,
including a probable program CRASH, if you successfully enter the
name of some other existing file that is either not a dBASE-III
file or has the wrong data file structure. Fortunately, if such
a problem does cause a program crash, no harm will be done to the
incorrectly chosen file.
Note to Hard Disk Users: Assuming you have invoked the QCHECK3
from your hard disk, hitting a <ret> at any question for the
default drive letter is acceptable, and will result in using your
hard disk (C:, D:, etc.) as the default, and the directory where
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
EXPANDED COMMAND LINE OPTIONS: EXPANDED COMMAND LINE OPTIONS: EXPANDED COMMAND LINE OPTIONS: ________ _______ ____ ________ ________ _______ ____ ________ ________ _______ ____ ________
Alternately, you can directly choose the check register data file
to use, whether to use personal or business checking, and to
force monochrome display, as desired, all from the command line.
QCHECK3 automatically checks for a color graphics card and
invokes a colored display if found. I hope you like the colors
chosen. They can be modified by using the Setcolor routine from
the Main Menu. Owners of monochrome (non-graphics) display
adapters will not have access to this feature. See the
subsection on setting display colors for more information.
If you prefer a "black & white" (monochrome) operation, you can
invoke it at the command line, as described below, this allows
direct access to over-ride the automatic selection of color mode
on color graphics adapter compatible systems (such as Compaq
portable, some laptops, and others) which may not "look" as good
in the color mode on their monochrome screens. Also, a command
line option is available to allow you to choose either personal
or business, and then go directly to the Main Menu screen,
bypassing the question and answer screen completely. Feel free
to experiment to see which you prefer.
The expanded command line is invoked as follows:
A:\> QCHECK3 <datafile> <type> <monochrome>
Where: each option is separated from the next by a single space
<datafile> = the name of the data file to be used, as described
in the user reference manual. If not specified,
then you cannot use the balance of the options.
QCHECK3 INCLUDES FULL PATH NAME SUPPORT.
<type> = P or B - a single character to denote <P>ersonal,
or <B>usiness Checking Routines as desired. The
default is personal checking. If blank or not
specified, then you cannot use the balance of the
options.
<monochrome> = M - a single character to force an override of
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
For example, to log onto the Personal checking system, using the
sample data file on Drive B:, in monochrome mode on a color video
system, enter:
QCHECK3 B:TEST3 P M
If you only want to use the Monochrome override, use the full
command line options with nonsense characters for the options not
used. The program will recognize the "garbage" as nonsense
(telling you the file was not found), and go into the full
question and answer log-on sequence for the other options, ie:
QCHECK3 badname z M
will give an error message for unknown filename, invoke the
Personal Checking routines (by default), and come up in
Monochrome mode. You will then be prompted for a data file name,
default drive specification, etc., as described above. To do the
same thing for Business checking, you could use:
QCHECK3 badname B M.
Also included with this version are a couple of sample batch
files, PCHECK3.BAT and BCHECK3.BAT, which illustrate how you
could use batch files to invoke personal or business checking in
a subdirectory called \CHECKING, for a Monochrome graphics
system, directly accessing any filename in that directory.
Simply type : PCHECK3 test3 to see how it works......
88-10-31 - Version 6 - If you choose to change the screen display
color selections, and then make the changes permanent (see
Section 5 for how to do this), QCHECK3 will save the colors
chosen in a special file on the default disk and directory. The
next time you use QCHECK3, the "M" option will not work to
override the color mode. If you subsequently change your mind
and wish to utilize the monochrome mode, simply use the MS-DOS
command:
DEL COLORS.MEM <ret>
to erase that file from your data disk, thereby re-enabling the
original color/monochrome selections. This is covered in more
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________
NOTE: 88-10-31 - It has been noted that some types or brands of NOTE: 88-10-31 - It has been noted that some types or brands of NOTE: 88-10-31 - It has been noted that some types or brands of
"disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the
performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and
operational problems with QCHECK3. This seems to be a compiler operational problems with QCHECK3. This seems to be a compiler operational problems with QCHECK3. This seems to be a compiler
related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the
program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being
explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution.
In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QCHECK3 In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QCHECK3 In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QCHECK3
occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc), the first place to occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc), the first place to occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc), the first place to
check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your
computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software, computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software, computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software,
remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the
computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate
further problems of this nature with QCHECK3. Naturally, you can further problems of this nature with QCHECK3. further problems of this nature with QCHECK3.
re-invoke the disk-caching software when not using QCHECK3.
Known discrepancies or incompatibilities have occurred with
Golden Bow's VCACHE, Mace Utilities CACHE, CACHE-EM, and MCACHE.
Use of QCHECK3 in conjunction with SpeedStor's SC (SpeedCache)
appears to function properly. If you have further information
(good or bad) on this, please contact Creative Resources. Thank
you.
It is from the Main Menu that all built-in command routines are
executed. The following sections contain outline each selection
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SECTION 5 - PROGRAM OPTIONS DESCRIPTIONS. _______ _______ _____________
Now that you have begun the sample run, you should be at the
Main Menu. If this is not so, go back to the previous sections
and begin again. The Main Menu (Personal Checking) screen should
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Note: The only difference in this display between the Personal
Checking System and Business Checking System is the some of the
titles at the top of the screen. The other differences between
those programs are related solely to the suggested single letter
Memos in the Check Entry and Edit screens, and the definitions of
the Function Key macros which can be used to easily enter
repetitive "Payees". In all other respects, the actual check
register data files are identical, and you can use either program
version with any data file. As noted above, you can modify these
memo code suggestions and function key macros (See Option M,
below).
The Version 6 Main Menu includes "light-bar" style access to all
visible options, by simply using the cursor key arrows to move
the light-bar up and down the list to the option desired. Then
press the <Ret> key to accept the choice. Hidden selections
(covered below), may only be chosen by pressing the letter or
number of the hidden choice. Hidden selections are included for
options either not normally needed, or for compatibility with
earlier releases, or to bypass certain question/answer sequences
to proceed directly to a pre-determined action desired.
A brief description of each Main Menu Option is included below
and is also summarized in an on-line help Option H:
Main Menu Option H - MAIN MENU HELP SCREENS. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ ____ ____ ________
If you do not know or cannot remember the overall functions of
any of the main menu options (including the hidden options),
simply press <H> at the main menu prompt, regardless of the
location of the highlighted bar.
The screen will clear and then display a series of screens
outlining the options available from the main menu (please see
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Main Menu Option 0 - EXIT TO Operating System Level. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ __ _________ ______ ______
This is largely self-explanatory. Option 0 exits the program,
and automatically deletes the "memo" index files that may have
been created during the current program session. The index file
deletion is transparent to the user, and requires no
intervention. (This is done to avoid cluttering up your disk
with un-needed files, as the index is re-created each time it is
used).
Note: You may also type <Q> or <X> or <Esc> to Exit.
It is strongly recommended that after exiting QCHECK3 that you
immediately make a "back-up" copy of your data files, onto a
different floppy disk, to keep as a spare, in case something
happens to the copy on your working data disk or hard disk. This
can save you many hours of wasted work in the event you have a
catastrophic failure of your computer of software which wipes out
your files. This is good policy to follow in general, for all
your software.
For hard disk users: This general policy also virtually
eliminates the need for an overall hard disk "BACKUP/RESTORE"
exercise, since you will always have a copy of the latest
versions of your files. It also makes it easier to transfer
these files to a different computer at your convenience.
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Main Menu Option 1 - ENTER NEW CHECKS & CHARGES. ____ ____ ______ _ _ _____ ___ ______ _ ________
This option is used for entering check register information on
checks written, bank service charges, and other miscellaneous
debits against your account, including cash advances. The input
screen is designed to simulate the layout of a check, to make it
easier to find the correct information to be filled in (Fig. 5-4).
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
When all the checks/charges are completed, enter a <0> at the
opening question ( Check Number ?), and then a carriage return
(<ret>) to exit back to the Main Menu. Alternately, you can
simply hit <Esc>, with no <ret>.
When filling in any field, if the information suggested in that
field in the data screen is correct or unchanged, merely hit a
carriage return to confirm its accuracy. Use the cursor arrows,
DEL and INS to change items that cannot be merely overwritten.
NOTE: When filling in Amounts of the checks, a whole number
amount need only be filled in without a decimal point (80.00 =
80), then hit a carriage return to accept the value. HOWEVER,
if the full decimal amount is entered (21.34), the cursor will
jump to the next field (MEMO) without need of any carriage return.
The suggested date field is taken from the date last entered, or
last date in the check register. Merely overwrite with the
correct information, as appropriate. This technique was used,
rather than taking the current system date, to better accommodate
users who do not need or wish to enter check activity on a daily
basis.
A powerful feature of QCHECK3 is the availability of both user-
definable function key "macros" which may be used for filling in
routine or highly repetitive entries for "Pay To", and on-line
help as to the current definitions of those function keys. To
determine the current definitions of the function keys, simply
position the cursor into the "Pay To" data entry area and hit
Function Key F1. A window will open below the "Pay To" field,
with an abbreviated listing of each function key's value. This
powerful new feature provides an easy way to consistently enter
information with a minimum of keystrokes, and is fully
customizable by the user, via a selection from the main menu.
To use the function key macros, simply determine which one is
desired, hit any key to close the help window (if open), and then
hit the appropriate function key. The current value of that key
is a "character string" that automatically writes into the "Pay
To" field, almost like magic. Note that on the original
definitions included with QCHECK3, that the character string
includes a "dummy" date format for easy reference, and is one
space less than the total field length (so that it does not
automatically jump to the next field). Function Keys F2 through
F9 are user-definable in this program, with F1 reserved for Help,
and F10 a universally available means of clearing any field to
the right of the current cursor position (defined as <Ctrl>-<Y>).
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There are two sets of function key macros and suggested check
memo codes, one for the business and one for the personal
checking operation modes. You can edit the originally furnished
eight function key macros or the lines of suggested memo codes to
suit yourself as outlined later under the discussion of Option M.
The function key macro and memo code set used is chosen
automatically by the operation mode chosen on start-up (personal
or business). This allows up to two different sets of "macros"
and memo codes for each diskette or subdirectory used for data
files - for whatever purpose you desire. This means that if you
do not need separate "personal" and "business" modes, you could
use this feature to provide different macros and memo codes for
different checking accounts, or some other different purpose.
Upon completing the final check data field entry, you will be
presented with a chance to confirm saving the data. At this
final question answer <Y> to accept the check, <N> if it's still
not right (which returns you to the "Check No. ?" question, or
<Q> or <Esc> to just quit back to the Main Menu. Alternately,
you can simply hit <Esc> at any time to quit back to the Main
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Main Menu Option 2 - ENTER DEPOSITS. ____ ____ ______ _ _ _____ _________
This option is used for entering check register information on
deposits and credits to your account.
The program is set up to only accept numbers in the amount and
date fields. All deposits have an automatically entered number
(NO) field, NO = 0. The MEMO field has a room for a brief
description (12 characters, max.). Upon initial entry, all
deposits and credits are assumed not canceled, and a .F. is
automatically included in the cancellation flag (CAN) field of
the record for each.
The program automatically goes to the end of the check register
file, and then asks for the amount of the deposit to be entered.
A suggested amount of $0.01 is put on the screen. If a deposit
is to be added to the check register, enter the correct
deposit/credit amount, then hit a carriage return to gain access
to the rest of the data fields to be filled in. For consistency
with the Check Entry routine, the sample form is set-up
similarly, but the "TO" section is already filled in as
"**DEPOSIT**".
When all the deposits/credits are completed, enter a <0> at the
"AMOUNT ?" question, and then hit a carriage return to exit back
to the Main Menu. Alternately, you can simply hit <Esc>, without
<ret>.
When filling in any field, if the information suggested in that
field in the data screen is correct or unchanged, merely hit a
carriage return to confirm its accuracy. Use cursor control
commands (arrows, <INS>, <DEL>) to change items that cannot be
merely overwritten.
Do not be concerned if you accidentally hit a carriage return at
the opening $ 0.01 amount. You can use the cursor arrows go back
and Edit it to the correct number before making the last data
entry. Furthermore, before the routine proceeds to the next
deposit, you must confirm that all data for this deposit is
correct. Otherwise, a <N> or <n> answer will ignore all the
deposit data just entered, and let you try again. Once again,
alternately, you can simply hit <Esc> at any time to quit back to
the Main Menu.
As on check entry, the suggested date field is taken from the
date last entered, or last date in the check register. Merely
overwrite it with the correct information, as appropriate.
When all fields are filled, you will be presented with a chance
to confirm saving the data. At this final question answer <Y> to
accept the deposit, <N> if it's still not right (which returns
you to the AMOUNT ? question, or <Q> or <Esc> to just quit back
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Main Menu Option 3 - ENTER CANCELED CHECKS / DEPOSITS. ____ ____ ______ _ _ _____ ________ ______ _ _________
This option is used as part of the checkbook balancing actions to
reconcile the computer records with the bank statement. Three
modes and types of cancellation are available: Browse mode for
all items, and individual cancellation mode for either checks or
deposits. You can individually cancel checks or deposits, but
not both at the same time in the "individual cancellation" modes.
You will be asked which you desire.
This option begins by clearing the screen, and asking if you want
to cancel both checks and deposits in Browse mode (B), or
individual Checks (C), or individual Deposits (D) or to Quit (Q).
BROWSE MODE CANCELLATION OF CHECKS AND DEPOSITS. BROWSE MODE CANCELLATION OF CHECKS AND DEPOSITS. BROWSE MODE CANCELLATION OF CHECKS AND DEPOSITS. ______ ____ ____________ __ ______ ___ _________ ______ ____ ____________ __ ______ ___ _________ ______ ____ ____________ __ ______ ___ _________
In the Browse cancellation mode (B), all items in the check
register data file are available for inspection and editing, in
the order in which they were entered. The standard dBASE-
III/dBXL editing commands are used (cursor arrows, INS, DEL,
PgDn, etc.) Each item is displayed on its own line, NOT in a
check-like format. The COMPILED version emulates true Browse
mode, and asks for the record to start with, then displays only
the next 10 records for editing. The fields are arranged such
that the cancellation field is at the right side of the screen,
making it simple and very fast to cancel large numbers of items
at one sitting, just by hitting the <T> key (for True, canceled)
for each item to be canceled. NOTE: Be extremely careful, as
other areas of editing are also possible in this mode, and
inattention to what you are doing could have disastrous results
(like being unable to find some of your checks or deposits.....).
When all changes are completed, hit <PgDn> to accept them (or hit
<Esc> at any time to quit back to the main menu without saving).
A bar will appear at the bottom of the screen for you to select
whether to Exit & save the changes, save & go to the Next 10
records, save & go to the Previous 10 records, or to Quit with no
changes. Simply enter <E>, <N>, <P>, <Q>, or <Esc> as desired.
NOTE: As a convenience to the user, Browse cancellation mode is
also available directly as a hidden selection from the main menu,
avoiding the need to answer the question on individual check or
deposit cancellation. You may also cancel checks and deposits
during EDIT operations (see Main Menu Option 8, below).
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NOTE: If you have already canceled your checks and deposits as
part of the cancellation in Browse mode, you may skip the step
for individual cancellation of Checks (C) or Deposits (D).
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NOTE: If you have already canceled your checks and deposits as
part of the cancellation in Browse mode, you may skip the step
for individual cancellation of Checks (C) or Deposits (D).
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Main Menu Option 5 - BALANCE INQUIRY/RECONCILIATION. ____ ____ ______ _ _ _______ _______________________
This routine is used to finalize the reconciliation of the check
register data file with the current bank statement. The program
adds up all outstanding (uncanceled) checks and all outstanding
deposits, and displays the subtotals. It then asks for the
bank's balance on the current statement. The program then adds
the bank balance to all outstanding credits/deposits, subtracts
the outstanding checks/debits, and displays the current balance.
This should agree with your checkbook register. (See Fig. 5-5).
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Main Menu Option 6 - PRINT REPORTS OF CHECKING/DEPOSIT ACTIVITY. ____ ____ ______ _ _ _____ _______ __ ________________ _________
This option is one of the most useful in the whole program. It
prints a summary of all checking or deposit activity in the
current check register data file, sorted by check/deposit memo.
It also has the ability to selectively "filter" out all but a
portion of the output, making it much easier to get information
on only that part of the check register of interest. The
filtering will be covered below.
When this option is selected, you will first be presented with a
choice of generating reports for Checking, Deposits, or to Quit
back to the Main Menu. Simply enter <C>, <D>, or <Q> as
appropriate.
After choosing one of the report types, the lower portion of the
screen will clear, a confirmation of which type of report (Checks
Only or Deposits Only) was requested will be displayed, and one
of two sets of queries will be presented for your "filtering"
request.
The complete range of "filters" is available for the checking
reports, while only an abbreviated one is appropriate for
deposits.
For reports on checks, you will be asked for:
Beginning Check Number: _______
Ending Check Number: _______
Written To: ___________________________
* Beginning Date: _________
* Ending Date: _________
* Memo/Category: _______________
Only the bottom three queries (starred above) are available for
the deposit report range, since all deposits have a Number of
[0], and have the field for Written To set to [*** DEPOSIT ***]
For your convenience, the computer will suggest the check number
range based on the first and last check numbers in the register
file. Note, however, that the last number may not be the highest
number (and the first may not be the lowest) if you use the
Tips/Suggestions section ideas for numbering cash advances,
service charges, etc. (unless it happens to be the last (or
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If you want the entire range of checks, charges, etc. listed, and
to avoid the possibility of numbers outside the (inexact) range
shown, you may enter a "0" (zero) for both the lowest number and
the highest number. This cancels a filter by check number.
Entering any other single non-zero number in both places will
cause a report for only that one check (if it exists).
Otherwise, if you only want the checks/charges numbered in a
certain range, just enter that range. For instance, to only see
checks 2001 to 2020, simply enter 2000 (or 2001) as the beginning
check number and 2021 as the ending check number.
The same technique applies to the beginning and ending dates
queries. To get checks or deposits only for, say JUNE, simply
enter 06/01/yy as the beginning date, and 07/01/yy as the ending
date (yy = current year in the file). This assures that all June
checks or deposits are shown. The safest way to assure all
entries are reported is to put a start date even before the one
suggested, and an end date after the end date suggested. This
will assure that even out-of-sequence-dated items are included in
a full run of all entries.
The real power in this routine comes from the selective reporting
using the "Written To" and "Memo" filters. These queries may be
used fully filled in; or to get ranges, only put in the part you
want to match.
For example, suppose you wanted to know how many checks you had
written to Procter & Gambles Company and also Proctor-Silex
Company, for the whole year. First, "zero out" or override (as
outlined above) the computer suggested beginning and ending check
numbers. Then enter only "PROCT" in the Written To field, then
blank (or override ) the dates and hit <PgDn> to skip the Memo
query. You will then obtain a report of all checks that were
Written To anyone starting with the first five letters "PROCT".
Similarly, to see only those deposits from paychecks, adjust as
needed the computer suggested dates as noted above ("check
numbers" and "written to" are not shown for deposit reports), and
enter "PAY" in the Memo/Category query field. You will then get
all deposits noted as "PAY", as the first three characters in the
Memo/Category field. (Assuming that PAY is how you noted those
entries.)
If you are interested in only one specific Payee or Memo, simply
type in all the characters of its name, and unless there are
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Conversely, if you want to know about one specific Payee or Memo,
but cannot remember exactly how you entered it, simply request a
report for everything with the first several characters being
what you expected. Keep trying different search criteria until
you obtain what you want. If it takes an inordinate number of
tries to get what you want, just print the whole contents, and
look for it by eye. You might also consider whether you need to
be more consistent in your data entry the next time you enter new
items. (You can always EDIT these items. See Option 8, below).
After entering the filters, you are now ready to get your report.
When the filters/search query has been answered, the lower
portion of the screen will clear, the query to be made will be
displayed for confirmation/reference, and you will be asked if
you want a printed or screen report.
Normally, reports are used with a printer (Sub-Option <P>), and
some systems may hang-up if one is not used, or if the printer is
not on-line when this option is invoked. You may also simply get
a QuickSilver error message. To do a quick check for errors or
inconsistencies, you may wish to use the screen output (Sub-
Option <S>) first. This is also a good approach when you are
just searching for unspecified information, such as outlined
above.
If you have failed to have a printer available and on-line when
asking for the printed report, and the computer system "hangs
up", you will have to follow the procedure specific for your
computer. For instance, you may have to perform a "warm boot"
with <CTRL>-<ALT>-<DEL>, losing "everything" you currently have
in memory. You may also lose the ability to access the checking
account data file you were just using, and have to start over
again. (This is unlikely, but possible.) The message here is:
Pay attention to what you are doing!!
The report uses standard 80-column, 8-1/2 x 11 paper, and does
not pause between pages, which means that "fan-fold", "pin-feed"
paper is required.
A report will be generated, with each memo/category sorted, with
subtotals, by MEMO field, and at the bottom, an overall total is
printed. Reports for checks are sorted on the entire MEMO field,
so consistency of data entry is important. NOTE: In the NOTE: In the NOTE: In the
interests of minimizing subtotaling category problems, allowing interests of minimizing subtotaling category problems, allowing interests of minimizing subtotaling category problems, allowing
for a wider variety of memos for the same type of items in the for a wider variety of memos for the same type of items in the for a wider variety of memos for the same type of items in the
Deposits, only the first three characters are used for Deposits, only the first three characters are used for Deposits, only the first three characters are used for
subtotaling on the reports of deposits. That means you can subtotaling on the reports of deposits. That means you can subtotaling on the reports of deposits. That means you can
safely enter "PAY 88-01-10" for one deposit, and "PAY 88-01-17" safely enter "PAY 88-01-10" for one deposit, and "PAY 88-01-17" safely enter "PAY 88-01-10" for one deposit, and "PAY 88-01-17"
for another, and still have them end up in the same subtotal for another, and still have them end up in the same subtotal for another, and still have them end up in the same subtotal
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
If printed output is selected (<P>), then before the printing is
started, you will be asked for an overall report title, up to 52
characters long, which may be used in any way desired, or left
blank. One example of a title would be: "WELLS FARGO ACCOUNT
# 2, Checking Activity to 87-09-03" or something similar.
NOTE: QCHECK3 automatically re-formats whatever title you enter NOTE: QCHECK3 automatically re-formats whatever title you enter NOTE: QCHECK3 automatically re-formats whatever title you enter
to be only "proper" words (ie: first letter capitalized, the rest to be only "proper" words (ie: first letter capitalized, the rest to be only "proper" words (ie: first letter capitalized, the rest
lower case). This means you no longer have to worry about lower case). This means you no longer have to worry about lower case). This means you no longer have to worry about
capitalization or shift keys.... capitalization or shift keys.... capitalization or shift keys....
You are then asked (for a printed report) if you want a form feed
sent to your printer, in case you have just finished something
else in the middle of the sheet, and you want to start the
checking report to start at the top of the next page, rather than
in the middle of the sheet. Just answer <Y> or <N> as you
desire.
You will now have an opportunity to modify the fonts or way the
printer prints characters, using a user-defined "printer set-up
string", which is stored in the dBASE memory variable file,
"PRINTSET.MEM". Users of other software, such as SuperCalc,
Quattro, Lotus, some word processors, or others, will be familiar
with the concept of set-up strings or initialization codes. In
order to utilize this feature, you will need to refer to your
printer's user or reference manual, and be prepared to do a
little experimentation the first times until you achieve the
desired result, as noted below.
First, you will be advised of the current value of the set-up
string. As delivered, the original printer set-up string will
show "** NONE **". This means that the current setting of the
printer will not be changed. That is, if you have, through some
other software or hardware, already set the printer to, say,
condensed mode, it will remain so set. On the other hand, if you
already have the printer set for full-size characters, you may
wish to print out in condensed mode; this is a way to do so. If
you do not wish to modify the current set-up string, simply enter
<N> or <ret>. To change it, enter <Y> or <y>. As usual, no
carriage return is needed for the program it accept this one
character answer. Note that the reports are set up to print in
full size (10 cpi) print on standard 8.5 " wide paper, so no
printer set-up codes are needed, unless so desired.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
To change the current set-up string, you will have to enter the
appropriate codes shown in your printer's user manual, probably
discussed under "Programming your printer" or something similar.
For example, to obtain condensed (17 cpi) printing on an Epson or
IBM graphics compatible printer, answer <Y> to change the set-up
string, then enter the following, when requested for the new
value:
CHR(15)
Just type this in, exactly as shown, including the parentheses,
then hit <ret> to accept it. This is one possible code for
setting Epson compatible printers to condensed mode. Other codes
may require multiple entries, ie:
CHR(27)+"(s16H"
is the set-up string for Hewlett-Packard LaserJet printers for
condensed mode. This may seem like "Greek", but if you want a
special looking output, you will have to "play along".
The "CHR(27)" represents the ASCII character <Esc>, which would
otherwise not be able to be entered directly (because the program
would think you were doing something else...). Many printer set-
up codes utilize CHR(27) + "something", and are therefore often
referred to as "Escape Codes". Note also, that in this and
similar cases you MUST enter exactly the same punctuation and
upper/lower case letters, as the ASCII value of upper case
letters is NOT the same as the ASCII value of their lower case
equivalent. You may wish to refer to your MS-DOS Operations
Manual for more on this. Suffice to say that there is a wide
variety of printing effects possible (condensed, expanded,
emphasized, italic, super-small, etc.), limited only by your
printer's capabilities, but you will have to experiment to
achieve the desired results.
The current limit of the length of the printer set-up string is
up to 40 characters, which seems like a lot, until you have
several effects you wish to employ simultaneously. This should
be sufficient for most uses, but if not, please contact Creative
Resources for a special version with more length, on request.
Whatever set-up string is entered will automatically be saved for
use on the next printing. Remember that if you want to switch
between different printer modes you will have to enter the
different set-up string each time it is to be changed. If you do
not need to change it, it will be retained at its last value.
(If you change the initial codes and then want to go back to
"NONE", simply enter a blank initialization string at the prompt).
This report is valuable for cash flow analysis, and with the
proper arrangement of MEMOs, is a real time-saver at tax time. A
sample of a portion of a typical report is included on the next
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
This procedure uses a dBASE-III Plus/dBXL report form called
CCHRPORT.FRM. The corresponding report form for deposits is
DCHRPORT.FRM. As noted above, these reports are set up for
standard 8.5 in x 11 in paper using normal size printing. They
are standard dBASE report forms and may be easily modified by the
user who already has a copy of dBASE-III Plus, dBXL or FoxBASE.
Sample Report (portions...)
PAGE NO. 00001 SAMPLE REPORT OUTPUT - TEST3.DBF To 84-09-15
09/17/84
Checks subtotaled by Memo/Category
CHECK PAY TO THE ORDER OF DATE AMOUNT
NO WRITTEN
* Memo/Category type : (note: entered with no memo used)
2270 Wherehouse Records (6 disks) 04/10/83 54.68
2300 void 05/01/83 0.00
** SUBTOTAL **
54.68
* Memo/Category type : $
2266 Cash 04/07/83 30.00
8351 cash advance $ 05/14/83 40.00
** SUBTOTAL **
70.00
* Memo/Category type : A
2301 C & R Investments - apt. 05/01/83 1250.00
** SUBTOTAL **
1250.00
* Memo/Category type : B
8409 SERVICE CHARGE SEPT 09/25/84 7.50
** SUBTOTAL **
7.50
* Memo/Category type : F
2304 Alpha-Beta food 05/15/83 38.09
2308 Cheeselovers cheese order 10/31/83 58.25
** SUBTOTAL **
96.34
(etc....)
* Memo/Category type : U
2263 P G & E BILL 3/16/83 04/07/83 57.25
** SUBTOTAL **
57.25
** TOTAL **
3996.46
Note that the checks are sorted by Memo. The report date is
generated automatically using the internal computer system date.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Note, that you can use the standard dBASE-III Plus/dBXL/-
QuickSilver keystrokes <CTRL>-<S> ( ^S ) to pause scrolling at
any time during the report output for the Compiled version.
Touching any key [it is recommended to use <Space-Bar> or <Ctrl>-
<Q> (^Q) as that key] will resume the scrolling until the next
time ^S is used.
Each category of entry is subtotaled, and the total amount of
checks or deposits in the portion of the check register file
output is also reported. These features are especially
convenient at tax time, both for totaling categories for
deductions, and to ensure that no deductible items are left
unaccounted. The deposit report can also serve as a double check
of your deposits for income against employer W-2 or 1099 forms,
etc.
One area of potential difficulty is that if you are not
absolutely consistent in filling in your MEMO fields, you may
obtain a report that has several different subtotals and
categories for what was intended to be the same MEMO. Using the
single-letter codes from the check entry screen will mitigate
this problem. Should this problem occur, simply edit the
offending items using the Edit option, or even Check Cancellation
Browse mode (carefully), then re-run the report. This is one
reason why you may wish to use the screen output option <S>,
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Main Menu Option 7 - LIST THE LAST PART OF THE CHECK REGISTER FILE. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ ___ ____ ____ __ ___ _____ ________ _____
This option is valuable for viewing the last portion of the check
register file, to find out what was last entered in the computer.
Only the last 15 records are displayed, to speed the display
process. A printout of this display may be obtained by using the
standard PC/MS-DOS screen-print procedure, <SHIFT>-<PrtSc>.
Again, whenever a printer is needed, beware that it is available,
or your computer system may hang-up, as noted above.
We find that it is very useful to use Option 7 at the beginning
of any session when new checks or deposits are to be entered or
canceled, to assure that the computer files are updated from the
right place in the checkbook's check register.
See also Option L and Option U for other screen data file Listing
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Main Menu Option 8 - EDIT THE CHECK REGISTER FILE. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ ___ _____ ________ _____
This option allows the Editing or correction of any item in the
check register file. It is set up to display and allow
correction of data in almost exactly the same way as the original
check data entry routine, except that the cancellation field,
CAN, (.T. or .F.) is also available. This routine was completely
rewritten for Version 6 to utilize "Menubar" access to all
records in sequential or non-sequential order for extremely easy
and powerful edit/query capabilities.
When you first invoke Main Menu Option 8, the screen will clear,
and then display the first entry in the check register, which
will most likely be the opening balance (Fig. 5-6). Below the
check/deposit display will be a "menubar" of available actions
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
The other menubar options are summarized below. They may be
invoked by entering the first letter of the option, ie: <N> for
Next, <P> for Previous, <R> for Retrieve.
Navigation Commands: Used for quickly moving around the database. Navigation Commands: Navigation Commands:
Option B - Beg - go to the beginning of database.
Option E - End - go to the end of database
Option N - Next - go to the next record
Option P - Prev - go to the previous record
Option S - Skip - move forward or backward in the data file by a
specified number of records. You will be prompted for the number
of records to skip. Simply enter a number for a forward skip, or
a minus number (ie: -5) for a skip backward. If you attempt to
skip beyond the beginning or end of the file, you will get a
message to that effect, and the display will then go to the first
or last displayable record.
Option R - Ret - retrieve a record by record number. When you
invoke this option, the data screen will clear and you will be
asked for the record number to retrieve. Enter the number and
then <Ret>. The program will immediately display the record
requested. The Retrieve menubar option was set up to find any
item by record (NOT check or charge) number in the file, both for ______
speed of accessing individual items, and also because
deposits/credits all have a NO = 0, which would make direct
access more difficult by using "NO" field. It is for this reason
that the data entry and some other screens always display the
current record number, for your reference.
NOTE: The exact results of these commands will depend on the use
of any "filter" or scope set, as outlined below.
Scope Commands: Used to limit the scope of your actions. Scope Commands: Scope Commands:
Option F - Filt - set a "filter" on database. This is used to
allow you to only operate on items that match in certain ways
that you define. When you invoke this option, you will be
prompted to confirm setting or canceling a filter. If you
respond <Y> for yes, the data screen will clear to blanks.
Simply fill in any combination of dates, check number, Payee,
memo, etc. that is of interest. When finished, hit <PgDn> to
accept the filter. Your subsequent actions for navigation,
listing, retrieval, and modifying the data will be restricted to
only records that match the "filter" you have set. When you have
completed the actions or queries desired on this "filtered"
range, simply choose menubar option <F> again, then <C> to cancel
the filter or <Y> to set a new filter condition. You may then
perform subsequent operations on the new filtered range (or all
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Orientation Commands: These options are used to help you orient Orientation Commands: Orientation Commands:
yourself on the relationship of the current record to its
adjoining ones.
Option L - List - display records on screen. Upon choosing this
option, the lower portion of the screen will clear, and display
all records starting from the currently displayed one. As each
screen fills, the QCHECK3 will pause and ask if you wish to see
more or not. If you respond <Y>, the next set of records will be
displayed, until the end of the file is reached. If you respond
<N>, you will be returned to the edit screen. Note that only
records AFTER the current record are displayed. To see records
before the current one, you will have to Skip or otherwise move
backward from the current position.
The edit/correction routine is also handy to get a display of
individual records, and may be easier to read for a single record
than the standard screen Listing options (# 7, L, and U ).
NOTE: The exact results of these commands will depend on the use
of any "filter" or scope set, as outlined above.
Editing the Records: Option M - Modify - edit the current check Editing the Records: Editing the Records:
or deposit record. Once you have located the record(s) to be
edited, by a combination of the navigation, scoping and
orientation options available, enter <M> to modify the currently
displayed record. The bottom of the screen will clear and then
display the suggested memo codes for the appropriate personal or
business checking mode in use. The cursor will move to the first
field (Check/Deposit No.), and you may then make whatever changes
are desired. (Tip: Remember, that to be handled properly for
cancellation and reports, all Deposits MUST have a number of 0
(zero)).
In addition to allowing the overwriting of any field's current
information, all the other standard dBASE-III Plus/dBXL full-
screen editing commands and QCHECK3 function key macros are
available. The data file itself is not changed until the last
<return> at the end of the page, and you have confirmed saving
the data, so that you can go back to re-edit items on the screen,
if you make another error. Also, you can always Edit the same
record more than one time if you think you need to make further
changes.
Terminating the Edit Session: Option Q - Quit - terminate the Terminating the Edit Session: Terminating the Edit Session:
current activity and return to the Main Menu
An alternate approach to editing records is to invoke the <B>
hidden menu selection from the Main Menu, to perform editing in a
BROWSE-type mode, directly from the Main Menu, which uses the
Check/Deposit Cancellation/Browse routine for multiple entry
editing in one session. See check/deposit cancellation, Option 3
description, above, for more information on this approach.
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Main Menu Option 9 - RESTART FOR NEW CHECK REGISTER FILE. ____ ____ ______ _ _ _______ ___ ___ _____ ________ _____
This option is pretty much self-explanatory. It is a convenience
feature to allow the user to access a different checking account
file while running the program, without having to exit all the
way back to the operating system and re-starting from there.
The program responds by clearing all current index files, and
then proceeds to the question of checking type or new file
creation, the request for the name of the new check register data
file and location of the disk drive for command files, as on
initial program startup, outlined above. You may include a drive
designator and subdirectory path in the file name. If the
pathname is too long to fit on the current screen line, it will
simply wrap around, but this has no effect on the correct file
name used.
Once these questions are answered, the Main Menu comes back on
the screen, and all previous selections are available for the new ___
check register file, which you will note has its name displayed
as the active file in the upper left corner of the screen.
Note: To enter data in a new, empty, check register file, it is
necessary to have first "created" the file, using Option C,
as outlined below.
Also, note that for convenience, this option can also be selected
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Main Menu Option L - LIST or EXPORT THE ENTIRE CHECK REGISTER FILE. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ __ ______ ___ ______ _____ ________ _____
This option is valuable for viewing the contents of the check
register file, to find out what all records contain. QCHECK3
also provides the ability to directly print out the raw file or
export it in a form suitable for importing into an electronic
spreadsheet.
Upon choosing this option from the Main Menu, you will be asked
if you want a Screen listing, output to a Printer or output to a
File (for export to a disk file that can be read by SuperCalc,
Quattro, Lotus, or other electronic spreadsheets, or other
software. Simply answer <S>, <P> or <F> as appropriate.
The listing always starts with the first record in the data file.
Inasmuch as the check register will likely contain more records
than can fit on the screen at one time, for screen listings, the
display will scroll as each additional record comes on the
display until the screen is filled. Scrolling automatically
pauses at about every 10 lines displayed, so that you can examine
any portion of the listing. The display will resume scrolling
upon pressing any key. It is recommended that <Space-Bar> be the
key pressed, as it has no other potential function.
See also Option 7 and Option U for other screen data file Listing
options.
If you choose File listing, the output file name for export used
the same as the check register, but the filename extension of
".CSV" for comma-separated-value file. (A .CSV file is a
standard ASCII file with a line for each record in the data file
and each field separated from its adjacent one by a comma.) You
will be warned that it will automatically overwrite any existing
file of the same name, and given a chance to escape without doing
so. If not aborted, the new file will be created on the same
drive and in the same subdirectory as the current working check
register file, and may be imported into the spreadsheet as a CSV
file or Lotus-style as /File,Import,Numbers. From there on, just
handle it like any other electronic spreadsheet file. Remember,
though, that any changes you make in the spreadsheet file must be
duplicated manually in the data file, if you want consistency.
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EXPORT FILE FORMAT - FOR SPREADSHEET USE. EXPORT FILE FORMAT - FOR SPREADSHEET USE. EXPORT FILE FORMAT - FOR SPREADSHEET USE. ______ ____ ______ _ ___ ___________ ____ ______ ____ ______ _ ___ ___________ ____ ______ ____ ______ _ ___ ___________ ____
The actual format of the output file has been modified slightly
from a normal dBASE ".CSV" format for easier import into a
convenient spreadsheet layout, with built-in spaces separating
certain fields for readability. The new format is suitable for a
spreadsheet set up as follows:
Column Column Field Explanation....
Width Included
A 9 NO (check/charge number/deposit = 0)
B 3 (blank - separates fields...)
C 25 CTO (pay to...)
D 9 AMT (amount of check/charge/deposit)
E 9 (user entered formula --> for running balance...)
F 4 CAN (canceled = .T., not canceled = .F.)
G 1 (blank - separates fields...)
H 9 DATE (date of check/charge/deposit)
I 15 MEMO (memo code or abbreviation...)
In my own SuperCalc4 spreadsheet, the initial line has the
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Main Menu Option U - LIST ONLY UNCANCELED CHECKS/DEPOSITS. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ ____ __________ ________________
This option is valuable in combination with the statement
reconciliation exercises for rapidly determining exactly which
checks and deposits are still listed as outstanding (Uncanceled)
in the check register data file. It avoids having to manually
inspect the entire data file for a .F. in the cancellation flag
(CAN) field. If your bank statement contains a notation for a
check not in sequence on cancellations, it is then very easy to
cross-reference/verify that the "missing" checks on the statement
are the same as the outstanding uncanceled checks in the data
file, or that they have been previously canceled, say, the month
before. It is also valuable for reminding you of any checks that
have not cleared for several months, or checks/charges/deposits
with inadvertent duplicate numbers or out of sequence
cancellation which were missed during normal cancellation
exercises. This routine can save much valuable time in locating
"stale" checks or problems such as these.
Once again, the screen will scroll as each record comes on the
display until the screen is filled. Again, scrolling
automatically pauses at about every 10 lines displayed, so that
you can examine any portion of the listing. The display will
resume scrolling upon pressing any key. It is recommended that
<Space-Bar> be the key pressed, as it has no other potential
function. As usual, you can also exit directly to the Main Menu
using <Esc>.
See also Option 7 and Option L for other screen Listing options.
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Main Menu Option C - CREATE A NEW CHECK REGISTER FILE. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ______ _ ___ _____ ________ _____
This option was created specifically for the user who is not an
experienced dBASE-III Plus/dBXL programmer, and does not know how
or does not care to manually create a new check register data
file with the necessary file structure to use with this program.
It is also the only way for users of the COMPILED Versions to
create files without having a copy of dBASE-III Plus or dBXL.
No check register shell need be present, as the program will
create the new check register data file directly.
As noted in the Start-Up section, you may create a new check
register data file directly during log-in by choosing <C> at the
log-in screen. To create a new data file after already having
logged on to use another file, you can choose Option C from the
Main Menu. Upon choosing either approach, the operation is
similar, as follows.
The program will ask for the name of the new check register data
file. It is strongly advised that only a "legal" filename be
used. For PC/MS-DOS systems, that means a maximum of 8 legal
characters for the primary filename, as only the 8 character
primary filename is needed, and the extension defaults to ".DBF".
The definitions of "legal" characters may be found in your
computer's operating system reference manual.
It is suggested that meaningful files names be used, and the
Suggestions for Users section, below, contains some hints which ___________ ___ _____
may be of interest.
If the requested filename matches with an existing file, you will
be warned of that fact, and asked if you wish to overwrite the
existing file. If you choose this option you will permanently
destroy all information in that existing file, so be careful!
Otherwise, simply answer <N> and you will be allowed to request a
different filename for the new file.
When the new file is created, you will be so advised at which
point you can continue program operations (to the Main Menu or
the Log-on screen as appropriate) by hitting the <Space-Bar>.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
To create your first usable check register file, follow these
steps:
1.) Start the program with just the command: QCHECK3 <ret>.
2.) At the log-on screen, choose Option <C> to create the
new data file
3.) Enter the desired name of the new data file as noted
above. The newly created file will NOT become the
active data file, and must be chosen as such.
4.) You will be returned to the log-on screen to proceed as
appropriate, either with the new file or a previously
existing one.
Alternately, if you created the new data file via Option C from
the main menu, it will NOT become the active data file, and must
be chosen, as follows:
4.) Upon returning to the Main Menu, choose <9> or <R> to
Restart the program
5.) Enter the name of the new data file just created, then
proceed as outlined above.
In either case, the newly created file then becomes the active
data file, having only one record in it, with a notation of
"OPENING BALANCE", an amount of $0.00, and a dummy date. The
first thing to do upon getting to the Main Menu is to choose
Option 8 to manually edit the first record to suit your
situation.
Attempting to first Restart, and trying to use your expected data _____
file name (prior to having actually created it) will either cause
an abort to the operating system (since the file does not yet
exist), or perhaps some unpredictable results (if you
inadvertently call out an otherwise unrelated filename). Follow
the above procedure for best results.
Obviously, you could also simply choose to re-start, then select
<C> to create a new file, rather than choosing <P> or <B> and an
existing file name. There is more than one way to get to your
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Main Menu Option A - ADDING MACHINE ROUTINE - CALCULATE AMOUNTS. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ______ _______ _______ _ _________ ________
This option was added as a convenience feature to provide an
internal calculator function to the QCHECK3 Checking Account
Management System, avoiding the need for a desktop calculator or
external software such as SideKick or other similar software.
Operation of the adding machine routine is pretty self-
explanatory. Its use is totally independent of the check
register files, and can be used for any purpose for the four
basic functions of add/subtract/multiply/divide. See Fig. 5-7.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Main Menu Option D - DATE UTILITY ROUTINE - MONTHLY CALENDAR. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ _______ _______ _ _______ _________
This option was added for user convenience for obtaining any
calendar or date information.
This utility can display a calendar for any month and year,
including leap years. Upon selecting this option, you will be
prompted for the month and year to be displayed. The default
answers with reflect the current month and year.
After answering these questions, the screen will clear and then
display the requested month and year calendar. To display the
same month, previous year; the next month; the previous month;
the same month next year; or to return to the prompt for a
totally different year, simply enter the number of the desired
choice from the bottom of the screen display (Fig. 5-8).
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Main Menu Option M - EDIT USER-DEFINED MEMO SUGGESTION LISTING. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ ____________ ____ __________ ________
This option was added in accordance with user feedback. It
allows you, the user, to modify the contents of the function key
"macros" and also the memo code suggestions at the bottom of the
check entry and editing screens. (Hint: It pays to register
your software, both to give you a chance to provide feedback on
what you want added or changed, and to assure that you get notice
of these types of upgrades....)
These suggested memo codes and the definitions of the function
keys used as "macros" for "PAY TO" entries are now stored in two
dBASE memory variable files called BMEMFUNC.MEM and PMEMFUNC.MEM,
and this routine allows instant access for changing function key
macro or any suggested memo code line, in any way desired, within
the field widths available (19 characters for macros, 76
characters for memo codes), for up to five lines of suggested
memos for each personal and business checking screen. Having two
files of these definitions offers the opportunity for the user to
have two sets of function key macros and two sets of memo codes
available for any use desired. One set is accessed automatically
when you invoke the Personal Checking operations mode, the other
by invoking Business Checking.
In addition to the function key macro flexibility, this means
that not only can you display fewer or more lines of memo
suggestions, but you determine how many columns of memo codes are
displayed by directly editing and lining them up yourself.
Upon choosing this option, (after a brief message to be patient
while the variables are set up) you will be presented with the
eight current function key macro definitions plus the five lines
of current memo suggestions (five each for personal and business
checking). See Fig. 5-9. They are edited similarly to the check
data browse mode emulation.
The current function key definitions are each displayed next to a
symbol for its appropriate function key used: F2 through F9.
Simply type in the desired changes. You can also use the
existing function key macros to aid in moving one definition from
one function key assignment to another, ie: hit F3 while editing
the definition for function key F4 to redefine to the same
definition currently used by F3, then change F3 to be what its
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Main Menu Option S - SET SCREEN DISPLAY COLORS. (Hidden Option) ____ ____ ______ _ _ ___ ______ _______ _______
This option - available, but not shown (hidden) on the Main Menu
- is intended for those users who are not satisfied with the
default colors in QCHECK3, and who wish to change them to
something more pleasing for themselves. It is only available
when running QCHECK3 on video graphics equipped computers, either
color or monochrome graphics that are IBM color graphics card
(CGA, EGA or VGA) compatible. It will not work on systems with
monochrome display adapters (MDA, or Hercules mono) that the
software cannot recognize as graphics compatible. Also, if you
have only a monochrome display (Compaq portable or similar
setup), you will probably be better off simply invoking QCHECK3
with the M (monochrome) command line option (see Getting Started,
Section 3, above) rather than trying to customize with this
routine. It is, however, up to you.
This routine is written to accept colors in plain English, with
the computer internally converting the colors into the
appropriate codes for its use. Upon choosing this option,
QCHECK3 will convert the current color codes in use into their
English names, and display them on the screen as shown in
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
If you choose to modify the colors, the cursor will be placed on
the first field, ready to accept your changes. Simply type in
the desired color to be used and press <ret>. If an unrecognized
color is entered, the program will so advise and ask if you wish
to pick a color from a list. If you choose to pick, you will be
presented with a window with all valid color choices and their
associated codes. You need only use the cursor arrows to
highlight the one desired and press <ret> to select it. Its name
will be entered for you in the current field, and the cursor
will move to the next field. This technique is often referred to
as "point & shoot" selection.
Continue for the remaining color choice fields, or hit <PgDn>
when finished.
You will then be asked if you wish to save these color
selections. A <Y> answer will retain these colors for the rest
of this session with QCHECK3. If you answer <N>, the original
colors will be re-displayed and you may either Modify them or
Quit to the Main Menu.
If you did save the new colors, you will then be asked if you
wish to save these these selections for future sessions. If you
answer <N>, the new colors will only be used for the remainder of
this session of QCHECK3, and will revert to their original values
the next time you use the program. If you answer <Y>, the colors
will be saved in a special file, COLORS.MEM, on the default data
disk and directory, and will be used for all future sessions of
QCHECK3.
Note: Once you have saved these colors into COLORS.MEM, its
existence on the default data drive and directory will override
any attempt to use QCHECK3 in monochrome mode (unless you make
the colors match the defaults used in monochrome mode). To
change this, simply erase the COLORS.MEM file using the DOS
command:
DEL COLORS.MEM <ret>
You may then start over with any other mode of color operation.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
SECTION 6 - ERROR MESSAGES. _____ _________
There are two kinds of error messages which may be encountered
during execution of the QCHECK3 Checking Account Management
System. They are: internal program error messages and dBASE-III
Plus/dBXL/QuickSilver error messages.
It has been attempted to handle all the most common error
situations with more friendly internal error messages. If an
unanticipated "glitch" occurs, however, the more cryptic
QuickSilver error messages may occur. If this occurs, do not
panic. Although more intimidating, a study of the exact wording
of the error message will often provide the correct response.
If you cannot figure out the problem and how to correct it,
usually it is relatively safe to hit the <Escape> button once or
twice until you get a "QuickSilver Escape - Cancel, Ignore or
Suspend? Called by QCHECK3.EXE " or similar type of prompt.
Simply type <C> for cancel, and you will exit to the operating
system level, at which point you can re-start the program. This
may not be the fastest solution, but it is probably the safest.
Your check register file should then be checked to be sure that
the last entries were accepted and not "glitched", and then you
can proceed to finish the interrupted session normally.
In extreme cases, (for instance, if the keyboard "locks up") it
may be necessary to perform a warm or cold boot/reset. This is
extremely rare, but not impossible. If this occurs, be
particularly careful in checking your data file when you restart
the program. Generally speaking, however, no errors will be
found, or only minor ones in the last record, which can be easily
corrected/edited. You may, however, have lost the last couple
of records, so check carefully.
The procedure for performing the warm boot (on an IBM-PC-
compatible, <CTRL>-<ALT>-<DEL>) or cold boot (on a IBM-PC-
compatible, turning it OFF then back ON--only a last resort) may
be found in your computer's owner's reference manuals .
The listing and brief explanation of the built-in error messages
furnished with the Checking Account Management System has been
deleted from this on-disk version of the manual, as it is mostly
redundant with the detailed explanations of each option.
NOTE: 88-03-31 - SEE SECTION 1 ABOVE FOR THE PROBLEMS WITH DISK NOTE: 88-03-31 - SEE SECTION 1 ABOVE FOR THE PROBLEMS WITH DISK NOTE: 88-03-31 - SEE SECTION 1 ABOVE FOR THE PROBLEMS WITH DISK
FULL ERRORS (USUALLY QS RUN-TIME ERROR #026). FULL ERRORS (USUALLY QS RUN-TIME ERROR #026). FULL ERRORS (USUALLY QS RUN-TIME ERROR #026).
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________
NOTE: 88-10-31 - It has been noted that some types or brands of NOTE: 88-10-31 - It has been noted that some types or brands of NOTE: 88-10-31 - It has been noted that some types or brands of
"disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the
performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and
operational problems with QCHECK3. This seems to be a compiler operational problems with QCHECK3. This seems to be a compiler operational problems with QCHECK3. This seems to be a compiler
related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the
program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being
explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution.
In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QCHECK3 In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QCHECK3 In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QCHECK3
occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc), the first place to occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc), the first place to occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc), the first place to
check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your
computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software, computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software, computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software,
remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the
computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate
further problems of this nature with QCHECK3. Naturally, you can further problems of this nature with QCHECK3. further problems of this nature with QCHECK3.
re-invoke the disk-caching software when not using QCHECK3.
Known discrepancies or incompatibilities have occurred with
Golden Bow's VCACHE, Mace Utilities CACHE, CACHE-EM, and MCACHE.
Use of QCHECK3 in conjunction with SpeedStor's SC (SpeedCache)
appears to function properly. If you have further information
(good or bad) on this, please contact Creative Resources. Thank
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
SECTION 7 - SUGGESTIONS FOR USERS. ___________ ___ ______
This section contains several suggestions that have been found to
be convenient for using the QCHECK3 Checking Account Management
System. They are not mandatory, but may be useful, and
informative. In other words, "It works for me!".
As noted above in several places, just like any standard IBM-PC
compatible session, the user can get a printout of the current
screen activities at any time by using the operating system
screen-print procedure <SHIFT>-<PrtSc> at any time. This is
sometimes referred to as a "screen-dump". Again, as in earlier
Section 5, above, beware of taking any action which requires a
printer unless you have one available, and it is on-line, to
avoid "hanging-up" your computer system, with potentially
disastrous results.
Also as noted above, any time screen scrolling occurs, dBASE-III
Plus/dBXL/QuickSilver supports the use of <CTRL>-<S> (^S) to
pause the scrolling. Touching any key (it is recommended to use
<Space-Bar> or <Ctrl>-<Q> as that keystroke) will resume the
scrolling until the next time ^S is used.
As outlined in the descriptions of Options 3 and 4, it is
important to remember to use non-duplicating check/charge
numbers, and to enter deposits in the order in which they will be
canceled. If duplicate check/charge numbers are used, the
Option 3 program will only find the first occurrence of that
number to cancel. If you have reason to suspect that the use of
a duplicate check number is the cause of a lack of successful
reconciliation with your bank statement, you can use Option U to
List all outstanding checks, make a note of the record number for ____ _ ____ __ ___ ______ ______
the duplicate check numbers, and manually Edit the CAN field
using Option 8 - EDIT, or the Browse mode of Option 3.
The avoidance of duplicate numbering is outlined below.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Most banks today seem to include a listing of check numbers on
each statement, to make it easier to balance your checkbook. The
difficulty is that service charges and miscellaneous debits, such
as cash advances often do not have reference numbers reported to
the account holder, at least until the arrival of the bank
statement. You may find it of benefit to make up your own
numbering system for these items, to use for entering data prior
to arrival of the bank statement, or if the bank does not include
such information at all.
The Checking Account Management System, QCHECK3, will not
currently accept characters other than numbers in the "NO" field.
For this reason, we here at CREATIVE RESOURCES have been using a
series of numbers that do not conflict with any other reference
numbers on our data files. We have found it convenient to assign
monthly service charges a number consisting of the 2-digit year
plus 2-digit month, for instance, "8708" for August 1987 service
charges. This is convenient for locating the position in the
check register, and is sufficiently out of sequence with our
usual check numbers to avoid the possibility of a duplication
there. Cash advances often have reference numbers on the
receipts from the ATMs, however, if not, we suggest a similar
numbering scheme to the service charges. We use "870704" to
reference the 4th cash advance taken in August, 1987, for
instance.
We are always happy to accept any further suggestions you may
wish to pass along. If you have any other comments or
suggestions, please contact us. Also, if, after obtaining the
uncompiled version of the Checking Account Management System, you
customize it to better suit your own needs, and wish to have it
compiled, we would be happy to assist you, for a low nominal fee.
CREATIVE RESOURCES
773 Somerset Place
Concord, CA 94518
(415) 685-6387
Thank you for your interest and registration/donation for
QCHECK3, the CREATIVE RESOURCES Checking Account Management
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
SECTION I - INDEX. ______
This section contains a partial index of pertinent data for your
easy reference. Also be sure to refer to the table of contents
and the discussion of which ever main menu option is involved.
-------------------
1099 Forms, 5-19
2-Floppy Drive System, 3-2, 3-6
Adding Machine Routine - Calculate Amounts, 5-30
Advance Registration, 1-3
ASCII Value, 5-17
Automated Teller Machine (ATM), 5-3, 7-1
Backing Up Your Originals, 3-1
Balance Inquiry/Reconciliation, 5-12
Bank Service Charges, 5-3, 7-2
Bank's Balance On The Current Statement, 5-12
BMEMFUNC.MEM, 3-5, 5-32
Browse Cancellation Mode (B), 5-3, 5-8
Browse Mode, 5-6
Calendar (Dates) Routine, 5-31
Cash Advances, 5-3, 5-2, 7-2
Cash Flow Analysis, 5-18
CCHRPORT.FRM, 3-5, 5-18
Changing The Current Printer Set-Up String, 5-16
Changing The Current Function Key Macros, 5-32
Characters Used For Subtotaling On Reports, 5-15
Check Or Charge Number Cannot Be Found, 5-10
Checkbook Balancing Actions, 5-9
Checkbook File Structure, B-1
Closing The Help Window, 5-6
COLORS.DBX, 3-5, 5-35
Condensed (17 cpi) Printing On An Epson/IBM Printer, 5-17
Condensed (17 cpi) Printing On A H-P LaserJet Printer, 5-17
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
If The Balance Displayed And Your Checkbook Do Not Match, 5-12
If The Keyboard "Locks Up", 6-1
If The Printer Is Not On-Line, 5-15
If The Requested Filename Matches With An Existing File, 5-28
If You Cannot Figure Out The Problem, 5-1
If You Run Out Of Disk Space, 3-1, 6-1
Importing/Exporting Into An Electronic Spreadsheet, 5-26
Including A Drive Designator And Subdirectory Path, 5-24
Individual Cancellation Mode For Checks Or Deposits, 5-9
Individual Check Cancellation Mode (C), 5-10
Individual Deposit Cancellation Mode (D), 5-11
Information On Deposits And Credits, 5-6
Initialization Codes (For Printer), 5-17
Internal Program Error Messages, 6-1
Introduction, 1-1
Lack Of Successful Reconciliation With Your Bank, 6-1
Legal Filename, 5-28
List Only Uncanceled Checks/Deposits, 5-27
List Or Export The Entire Check Register File, 5-26
List The Last Part Of The Check Register File, 5-20
Lotus, Import/Export To, 5-25, 5-26
Main Menu Options, 5-6
Making A "Back-Up" Copy Of Your Data Files, 3-2
Meaningful Files Names, 5-28
Memory Variable Files, 5-32
Memos, B-1, 5-32, 6-2
Menu Selections, 5-2
Miscellaneous Debits, 5-3
Modifying The File Structure And Command Programs, B-1
Modifying The Printer Fonts, 5-17
Modifying The Memo Code Suggestions And Function Key Macros, 5-2, 5-32
Monochrome Override (Command Line Option), 3-9, 5-35
Monthly Bank Service Charges, 5-2, 7-2
Moving A Definition From One Function Key To Another, 5-32
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Pausing Scrolling, 5-19
PKARC/PKXARC, 3-2
PMEMFUNC.MEM, 3-5, 5-32
Print Report Of Checking/Deposit Activity, 5-14
Printer Set-Up String, 5-17
Printer Set-Up String (Length Of), 5-18
PRINTSET.MEM, 3-5, 5-17
Program Options Descriptions, 5-1
QCHECK3 Registration Form, ii
QLIB3, Another Creative Resources Program, 1-4
Quattro, Import/Export To, 5-25
Quicksilver Run-Time Error #026, 3-1, 6-1
Reconcile The Computer Records With The Bank, 5-9
Reconciliation Of The Check Register Data File, 5-12
Record Numbers, 5-22
Report Types, 5-13
Restart For New Check Register File, 5-24
Resume The Scrolling, 5-19
Revision Notes & History, A-1
Reformating Report Title To Proper Nouns, 5-16
Sample Check Register Data, 3-5, 5-2
Sample Of A Portion Of A Typical Report, 5-18
Sample Run, 5-2
Screen Dump, 5-12
Screen-Print Procedure, 5-1
Selective Reporting Using The "Written To" And "Memo", 5-14
Self-Extracting Archive File, 3-2
Service Charges And Miscellaneous Debits, 7-2
Set-Up String For Epson & IBM Printers, 5-17
Set-Up String For Hewlett-Packard LaserJet Printer, 5-17
Set-Up String Entered Is Automatically Saved, 5-17
Setting/Resetting Screen Display Colors, 5-34
Shareware, 1-1, 1-3
Shareware License, 1-1, 1-4
SideKick, Use Of, 5-30
Single-Letter (Memo) Codes, 5-19
Spreadsheet Conditional IF, 5-26
Stale Checks, 5-27
Suggested Date Field, 5-4
Suggested Memo Codes, 5-32, 7-1
Suggestions For Users, 5-3, 7-1
SuperCalc, Import To, 5-17, 5-26
SuperCalc, Quattro, Lotus, Or Other Electronic Spreadsheet, 5-26
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Table Of Contents, ii
Tax Time, 5-15, 5-19
TEST3.DBF, 3-5, 5-2
The Beginning Of Any Session, 5-20
The "File:" Line, 5-1
To Make A "Default" Directory Before Invoking, 3-4
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
APPENDIX A - REVISION NOTES/HISTORY. ________ _ _ ________ ______________
This appendix highlights the changes made during the life of this
program. It may be of interest to those with older versions of
the software who are upgrading, and others for intellectual or
programming related reasons.
Version 1.0 - 87-01-19/87-05-29 - Initial release.
Version 1.01 - 87-07-15 - Not released separately. Allows
entering <B> directly at the Main Menu
for Browse-type editing, in addition to
the listed Option <8> for single record
editing. Merged into Version 1.10
release.
Version 1.10 - 87-07-17 - Allows direct entry of the checking
data file name at the command line,
skipping intermediate prompts for data
file name and drive. Works only for
the default directory for any valid
drive. See the end of Section 3 for
instructions.
Version 1.11 - 87-07-21 - Modified report of checking activity to
ask for report title for printed report
only.
- 87-08-19 - Modified and shortened documentation,
deleted manual error message and index
section on disk file, combined all
files into PKARC self-extracting
archive file to fit on a single disk
for easier distribution.
Version 2.01 - 87-11-27 - Program rewritten for both versions in
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Version 2.1 - 87-11-29 - Added Adding Machine Routine for easier
adding up of your check register
without the need for desktop calculator
or other software such as SideKick.
Also slightly revised colors in color
mode, some screens, made deposit
cancellation option a hidden selection,
expanded cancellation mode to include
both checks and deposits. Fixed
scrolling displays.
Version 2.11 - 87-12-06 - Upgraded Adding Machine Routine to
handle multiply/divide as well.
Version 2.12 - 87-12-13 - Fixed minor bug in filter for
uncanceled check listing.
Version 3.0 - 88-01-17 - Expanded report generator option to
include both checks and deposits, in
separate reports. Changed report forms
slightly for better readability. Added
front-end "filter" for these reports
for selective output of only that part
of the file of interest - by check no,
payable to whom, dates, and
memo/category. Added display of which
check file name is current. Revised
most display title sections for more
consistency & better looks. New larger
program and document files now require
PKARCing again to fit on a single disk.
- 88-01-18 - Corrected write up on filters...
Version 3.1 - 88-03-15 - Major upgrade to file listing Option L
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Version 4.0 - 88-03-31 - Major upgrade to allow user-defined
memo code suggestions on check
entry/edit screens. Also improved ease
of use and speed of operation of browse
edit/cancellation routines, and
additional items of consistency for
screen display and method of escaping
from operations, including reports
options, file listings, and deposit
entry routines. Also, added unlimited
number of attempts to enter a valid
check register filename (had be limited
to 2 tries), and prevents using the new
file name CHKMEMOS.DBF, which would
crash the program.
Version 4.1 & 4.2 - 88-04-15 - Several minor changes and minor
bug fixes have been incorporated,
including a change of storing the
suggested check memos in a file called
CHKMEMOS.MEM, rather than CHKMEMOS.DBF.
Other minor changes for screen
consistency and slightly revised screen
prompts. Added ability to export .CSV
file for use with electronic
spreadsheet such as SuperCalc4,
Quattro, Lotus, etc.
Version 5.0 - 88-05-15 - Totally revised user-defined memo
suggestions and combined with new user-
defined function key assignments for
"Pay-To" entry, including on-line help
for current F-Key definitions, replaced
single CHKMEMOS.MEM with PMEMFUNC.MEM
and BMEMFUNC.MEM, added user-defined
printer setup strings, calendar look-up
function, and simplistic check for
adequate available disk storage space
prior to allowing key operations which
require additional space. Revised
shareware donation.
Version 5.01 - 88-05-20 - Minor revision to .CSV export format
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
Version 6.0 - 88-10-31 - Major revision. Includes changeover of
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
APPENDIX B - CHECKBOOK FILE STRUCTURE. _________ ____ __________
Although the QCHECK3 checkbook management system is set up to
avoid the need to use dBASE-III Plus/dBXL commands directly, it
may be useful to know some of the inner workings of the system
and file structure. In particular, the size of the fields used
for each check register entry will determine how convenient it is
to use. In database parlance, a "field" is one type of
information, such as the check number, the date, or the amount,
and each set of fields for one check is known as a "record", or
one line in the data file.
The sample data file (TEST3.DBF) included, and all new check
register data files each have the same structure, as shown below
(the number of records and date of last update may differ on your
copy):
Field Field Name Type Width Dec
1 NO Numeric 6
2 CTO Character 25
3 AMT Numeric 10 2
4 CAN Logical 1
5 DATE Character 8
6 MEMO Character 12
** Total ** 63
After over four years of use and continuing improvement of this
system (originally developed for dBASE-II), these values have
proven to be the best mix of ease of use/display and convenience.
Note, that these field sizes will give good output for an 80 x 24
screen (as well as for the reports generated to fit on 8-1/2 x 11
paper in full size print) that is, each check takes up only one
line on the screen or page. The experienced dBASE/dBXL user can
easily modify the file structure and command programs to suit
larger fields (Un-compiled versions only!).
The names of each field are pretty much self-explanatory, but are
described in more detail below.
NO - The field for check or charge number. Deposits are all
given a NO = 0. See the user suggestions for ideas
on numbering items other than your checks, such as
cash advances or bank service charges, etc.
Note that the use of "0" for deposits is the reason
why the Edit routine depends on the data file record
numbers, rather than check numbers, for finding items
to be edited. See below for more information on this.
CTO - The field for whom the check is made payable.
Deposits are automatically given a TO = **DEPOSIT**.
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
AMT - The field for the amount of the check, charge or
deposit. No + or - sign is needed. Even (or whole)
dollar amounts need not have the decimal point or
cents entered.
CAN - The field to denote whether an item has been canceled
on the current checking account statement from the
bank. Newly entered checks and deposits are given a
single character logical value of .F. (false), the
cancellation routine allows you to change this to .T.
(true).
DATE - The date field is automatically generated, based on
the last entered data. You merely need to enter the
new numbers, slashes ("/") are entered for you. All
dates are in the form "mm/dd/yy". No checking is
performed for valid dates, ie: 02/31/85 will be
accepted. Note: this is a character field, not a
dBASE-III DATE field type, as a carry over from its
dBASE-II roots, and to avoid some limitations of
dBASE date type data (not occurring with
dBXL/QS).....
MEMO - The check and deposit entry routines have a selection
of standard single letter memos for categorizing each
check for the output report. If none of the standard
categories fits, the memo field of 12 characters is
generally adequate to describe some sort of
identification.
The output report arranges the checks by MEMO, and
subtotals for each category. This is a valuable tool
for tax reporting, and in itself saves more than the
cost of the program. It is important to use
consistent memo names as the report generator sorts
and subtotals for each different memo. See Report
Generator (Option 6) description for more
information.
As noted above, the combination of these fields makes up one
record or line in the data file for each check, charge, or
QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL. QCHECK3 - CHECKING ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM USER MANUAL.
In practice, you do not need to know the field names or field
widths, as they are called out in complete English terminology,
with the field width shown with delimiters, as installed with
your copy of the source code. The field names are needed,
however, if you do any customization of the data file structure
or command programs (Un-compiled versions only !!), or if you
wish to use dBASE-III Plus/dBXL to generate other queries on the
