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1991-07-17
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OSCAR version 1.04
A file management utility.
Copyright (C) 1991 Duane P. Fridley
All Rights Reserved
OVERVIEW
========
OSCAR is a "shareware" file management utility that allows the user
to view both the Source and Destination directories for purposes
of:
* Copying Files.
* Moving Files.
* Erasing Files.
* Viewing/Editing files (With user supplied Viewer/Editor).
* Renaming Files or Directories.
* Setting File or Directory Attributes.
* Creating New Directories.
* Erasing Directories.
* Sorting Files by Name, Extension, Size or Date.
* Wild Card Marking of files for Multiple Operations.
* Wild Card UnMarking of files for Multiple Operations.
* Running (Exec) files.
* DOS shell.
OSCAR's main feature is that it will show you exactly how much free
space you will have on both source and destination BEFORE the operation
is started (Copy, Move, Erase). (see Limitations of OSCAR)
DEFINITION OF SHAREWARE
=======================
Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software
before buying it. If you try a Shareware program and continue
using it, you are expected to register. Individual programs
differ on details -- some request registration while others
require it, some specify a maximum trial period. With
registration, you get anything from the simple right to continue
using the software to an updated program with printed manual.
Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial software,
and the copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific
exceptions as stated below. Shareware authors are accomplished
programmers, just like commercial authors, and the programs are
of comparable quality. (In both cases, there are good programs
and bad ones!) The main difference is in the method of
distribution. The author specifically grants the right to copy
and distribute the software, either to all and sundry or to a
specific group. For example, some authors require written
permission before a commercial disk vendor may copy their
Shareware.
Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software. You
should find software that suits your needs and pocketbook,
whether it's commercial or Shareware. The Shareware system makes
fitting your needs easier, because you can try before you buy.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 2
And because the overhead is low, prices are low also. Shareware
has the ultimate money-back guarantee -- if you don't use the
product, you don't pay for it.
GETTING STARTED
===============
If you have a hard copy of this file in hand you are off to
a great start!
INSTALLATION ON A HARD DRIVE
----------------------------
There are two (2) ways to install OSCAR on your HARD DRIVE
so you can call up the program from anywhere on your hard drive.
First the EASY way:
1) USE the hard drive installation utility OSCARHDI.COM provided
on your distribution diskette. If you don't have it check
your local BBS for a file named OSCAR???.EXE or OSCAR???.ZIP
(where ??? is the version number) OR send me a blank 5 1/4 diskette
and a note telling me where you obtained the program and I'll send
you a current version WITH the OSCARHDI installation utility.
Now the HARD way!:
1) Copy the distribution files onto your HARD Drive in a
subdirectory of your choosing.
Example:
--------
If you wish to create a directory for OSCAR take
the following steps:
a) Log on to your hard drive by typing d:
Where (d) is your hard drive letter.
(e.g. C:, D:, etc...) And strike return.
b) At the drive prompt d:\> type MD DirName
and strike return.
(For our example we'll use OSCAR for a DirName)
c) Log into the Directory you just created by
typing CD OSCAR and strike return.
d) Insert your distribution diskette into your
A: drive if it isn't already there and type
COPY A:*.* without the quotes. This should
copy all the files on your distribution diskette
into the directory you just created.
2) Next make sure that the directory that you copied OSCAR
into is in your PATH= statement in your AUTOEXEC.BAT
file. If you don't have an AUTOEXEC.BAT file now's the time
to make one! (Consult your manual on DOS on how to make one)
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 3
Example:
--------
a) Use an editor or word processor set in ASCII format
to load your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. If you don't see
a PATH= statement in this file then add one:
Type PATH= and continue typing the drive and directory
that you copied OSCAR's files into.
(e.g. PATH=C:\OSCAR)
b) If you already have a PATH= statement in your
AUTOEXEC.BAT file append the drive and directory
for OSCAR on to the end of the string.
(e.g. PATH=C:\DOS;C:\OSCAR)
^
|_ There MUST be a ; between drive
paths!!
NOTE: If your drive and directory already exists in the PATH=
statement you do NOT have to append the drive and directory on
the end of the string!
Now we're almost done!
3) Now (still in your editor) add the following line:
SET OSCAR=C:\OSCAR
^
|_ The same drive and path you used
for the PATH= statement.
This statement adds an environment variable to DOS so
OSCAR can determine where its main program is to save
setup information.
4) Finally, save this file in ASCII format (Consult your editor
or word processor manual on how this is done). And reboot
your computer by pressing the Ctrl-Alt-Del keys at the same
time.
WHEW!! Now we're done. Don't you wish you had used OSCARHDI?
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 4
;----------------------------------------------------------------;
; A little about the PATH= statement in AUTOEXEC.BAT files: ;
; What does the "PATH= statement do?" ;
; ;
; Simply put the PATH= statement tells DOS where to look for ;
; commands that you type on the command line. ;
; ;
; Example: ;
; -------- ;
; If your AUTOEXEC.BAT file contains the following line: ;
; ;
; PATH=C:\DOS;D:\TURBO ;
; ;
; and you type the following line at the drive prompt(cmd line) ;
; ;
; C:\>TURBO.EXE ;
; ;
; DOS will search the current directory for a file named ;
; TURBO.EXE and if the file isn't found then a search is made ;
; of all the drives and directories specified in the PATH= ;
; statement in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. If the file still isn't ;
; found then you are greeted with the familiar: ;
; ;
; "file not found" ;
; ;
; To learn more about the PATH= statement consult your DOS ;
; users guide. ;
;----------------------------------------------------------------;
OPERATION
=========
GETTING STARTED
---------------
After you have installed OSCAR on your hard drive type
OSCAR at the drive prompt and strike return.
Or, if you don't have a hard drive,
Insert the BACKUP diskette of OSCAR (You DID make a BACKUP didn't
you?) into a drive. Log into that drive and type OSCAR. At this
time OSCAR will load and an opening screen will appear with my name
and version of OSCAR. Then, OSCAR will display its main screen.
THE MAIN SCREEN
---------------
There are two windows on the main screen labeled "Source" and
"Destination". On initial startup of OSCAR you will see a window
requesting that you select a Destination Drive. (see DRIVE SELECTION)
After you select the Destination Drive the top line of the screen
shows a menu line with the current "MODE" of operation highlighted
in the center of the screen.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 5
Located at the bottom of the windows are the current file count
and free space for the viewed drive and directory. These numbers
will be updated as you mark files for Erase, Copy or Move operations.
NOTICE: OSCAR does NOT show you a hole mess of gee whiz numbers on
the screen, like:
Marked files: xxx
Marked bytes: xxx,xxx
Number files: x,xxx
etc...
I saw no need to clutter the screen with all those numbers when their
only use is to determine if your files will FIT on the destination or tell
you how much free space you will have if you do something with the marked
files. Basically, making you reach for your calculator and determine
what will be left on your source and/or destination before you do some-
thing with the files. OSCAR calculates the result for you BEFORE YOU DO
THE OPERATION and UPDATES THE FILE COUNT AND FREE SPACE IN BOTH THE WINDOWS
so you know how much free space and files you will have BEFORE you do any
operation (ERASE, MOVE, COPY)!!! No more calculator.
DRIVE SELECTION
---------------
To select a new source or destination drive use the hot key
selection Alt-S (Source) or Alt-D (destination). At this time OSCAR
will show you possible drive selections and request that you select
one. Active keys for drive selection are:
Arrow right......Moves cursor right.
Arrow left.......Moves cursor left.
Space Bar........Moves cursor right.
Drive letter.....Selects that drive IF listed.
Alt-I............Scans all drives listed and shows free space.
Return...........Selects the highlighted drive letter.
Escape...........Aborts drive selection.
Alt-I (Drive information)
-------------------------
This feature is shown to you when you initially load OSCAR
then on subsequent calls to change your Source or Destination
drive you must use the key Alt-I to access this information
again. I originally had the drive information displayed every
time you wanted to change drives however the scan can sometimes
take a little bit of time, especially if you have a couple of
floppy drives on your system. HEY, I got tired of waiting!!
This feature is extremely useful if you are about to Move or
Copy a hole mess of files to floppies. Now, all you have to
do is switch floppies and rescan until you find a floppy that
has a lot of free space on it without having to load the files,
then look to the bottom of the window to see how much free space
there is left.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 6
OSCAR's Main Screen
-------------------
__________ Pull Down Menus _ Current Mode Header Time
| | | |
V V V V
Files Options XXXXX MODE F1-Help F10-Menu hh:mm
|-------------| Source |--------------||-----------| Destination |-----------|
| (Current Source Path Window) || (Current Destination Path Window) |
|-----------------------------------|-||-----------------------------------|-|
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| (Source Files Window) | || (Destination Files Window) | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
| | || | |
|-----------------------------------| ||-----------------------------------| |
| File(s) XXXXX Free XXXXXXXXXXX | || File(s) XXXXX Free XXXXXXXXXXX | |
|----------^---------------^--------|-||-----------------------------------|-|
|_ # files in | ^ ^
current <Dir> | |___ Relative location in file list ___|
|
|_ Free space on current drive
Notice, I've purposefully tried to keep the clutter to a minimum on
the "Menu Line" besides saving screen space I hope this makes OSCAR
easier to use by removing the confusion factor of A LOT of options on
the screen.
THE MENU LINE
-------------
The menu line is located on the top line of the screen along with
the current time (If your PC has an internal clock!). This line
has highlighted letters and function keys.
To "pull down" the File Menu hold down the "Alt" key and press the
letter "f" the File Menu will appear. Or select F10.
Use the arrow keys to move around just to get a "feel" of how OSCAR
works. As a matter of fact all highlighted letters on the "MAIN Screen"
are active HOT Keys and are activated by the "Alt" key combination.
Alt-S Select a new Source drive
Alt-D Select a new Destination drive
Alt-F Pulls down the File Menu
Alt-O Pulls down the Options Menu
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 7
F1 Shows the help screen
F10 Pulls down the File Menu
Press F1 to view the help screen and examine it.
This screen shows all the keys that OSCAR uses.
THE FILES AND OPTIONS MENUS
---------------------------
The Files Menu
--------------
To select an operation from the files menu type the highlighted
letter, use an "Alt-letter" selection, or highlight the operation
you wish to do and strike return.
Current Files menu selections are:
Copy.........Used for Copying files.
Erase........Used for Erasing files/directories.
Move.........Used for Moving files.
Rename.......Used for Renaming files/directories.
Attribute....Used for changing file/directory attributes.
New <Dir>....Used for Creating new directories.
Quit.........Used for Exiting the OSCAR program.
Notice if you select Copy, Move or Erase the top Menu Line is
updated showing which "MODE" of operation you are currently in.
(see THE "MODES" OF OPERATION below for details on the various
operating MODES of OSCAR!)
The Options Menu
----------------
The OPTIONS menu contains options to change the way OSCAR
runs or to perform operations related to files but not assigned
a Hot Key.
Current Options menu selections are:
Viewer/Editor set..For changing your current Viewer/Editor.
Tight Fit(floppy)..For obtaining maximum fit on floppies.
DOS Shell..........For Shelling out to DOS in the current <Dir>.
Viewer/Editor set
-----------------
Select this option if you wish to change your current
Viewer/Editor. (See SETTING THE VIEWER/EDITOR below.)
Tight Fit(floppy)
-----------------
Select this option while in COPY or MOVE MODE to obtain maximum
fit of your marked files when you are copying or moving a "hole
mess" of files to floppies.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 8
When you select this option OSCAR removes all primary marks
and replaces them with secondary marks, then the Source directory
is sorted by Size in descending order and the secondary marks are
reconverted into primary marks. By doing this OSCAR is able to
mark all your large files first leaving the smaller files to
fill in the gaps thus giving you the "best" fit.
(See COPY MODE, Copy Feature).
THE SOURCE AND DESTINATION WINDOWS
----------------------------------
The Source and Destination windows contain information about the
current Drive and Directory selected. When you first select a new
Source or Destination Drive OSCAR loads the Root Directory for the
selected drive. The format for the windows is as follows:
"mFILENAME EXTX,XXX,XXX RHSA ddmmmyy" or "mFILENAME EXT <Dir> RHSA ddmmmyy"
m...........The filemark (Primary "->", Secondary ".", None " ").
FILENAME....The file name.
EXT.........The file extension
X,XXX,XXX...The file size.
R...........Means file has Read-Only attribute bit set.
H...........Means file has Hidden attribute bit set.
S...........Means file has System attribute bit set.
A...........Means file has Archive attribute bit set.
dd..........Day file was changed/created (1-31).
mmm.........Month file was changed/created (Jan-Dec).
yy..........Year file was changed/created.
<Dir>.......Indicates a subdirectory.
Below the headers "Source" and "Destination" is the current Drive,
Path and Viewed Files Mask. Currently there is only ONE mask *.*!
To the right of each window is a "hashed" row with a bright marker
in it. This bright marker shows the approximate location in the
directory list of files. When it reaches the bottom you are at the
end of the file list.
At the bottom of the windows you see the file count for the current
Drive and Directory. Also you are given the current Free space on the
selected drive.
You may page up, page down, go to the start of the directory (Home),
go to the end of the directory (End) or "Jump to Files".
To "Jump to Files" simply type the first letter of any file and watch
OSCAR jump thru the files that start with the letter you type.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 9
Example:
For this example we will concentrate on the Source window.
However, remember the Destination window is exactly the same.
|-------------| Source |---------------|
|D:\A86\OSCAR\*.* | <--Shows the
|------------------------------------|-| current viewed
| \Root | | drive and
| \A86\ | | directory.
->OSCAR COM 32,129 ...A 7Jul91 | |
|.FOO DOC 322,999 R.S. 10Dec80 | |
| OTHERSTU FF1 12 .H.A 29Mar85 | |
| JUNK <Dir> .... 10Jan91 | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|------------------------------------| |
| File(s) 6 Free 10,260,480 | |
|------------------------------------|-|
In this example we can see we are viewing all the files contained
in D:\A86\OSCAR. The total file count is six (6) with 10,260,480
bytes free on drive "D:". The file OSCAR.COM is marked with a
primary file mark, is 32,129 bytes in size, with the Archive
bit set and was last changed/created on July 7, 1991. It's that
easy! (see FILE MARKS)
Notice there is a subdirectory here called JUNK and what
are those first two entries? OSCAR displays the first two
entries whenever you enter into a subdirectory to make maneuvering
around the tree easier. (see MANEUVERING AROUND THE TREE)
FILE MARKS
----------
OSCAR currently displays two (2) different kinds of file marks.
* Primary
* Secondary
Primary file marks are represented by a bright arrow pointing
at a file. If a file has a this mark pointing to it the file
has been selected for a major operation (i.e. ERASE, COPY or MOVE).
All this means is that the file will be operated on depending
on your current mode of operation. For example, if you are in
ERASE MODE and press Insert (Ins) all your files will have primary
marks pointing to them. If you were to continue with the erase
operation all the files with primary marks would appear in the
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 10
erase verification window and would be erased if you answer yes (Y)
to the verification string.
Secondary file marks are represented by a bright dot next to
a file. If a file has this mark next to it the file has been marked
for action. However, the action cannot be completed. For example,
if you are in COPY or MOVE mode, have a floppy disk loaded for
your destination and mark all files in the source window there is
a chance that you will see secondary marks. All this means is that
OSCAR recognizes that you wish to copy or move all these files
however, not all the files could fit on your floppy, thus the
secondary marks. If you were to continue with the copy or move
operation by striking return to invoke the copy or move verification
window and answer yes (y) to the question. OSCAR will copy or move
the primary marked files then recognize that there are more files
to copy or move and prompt you for a new destination to send
the secondary marked files to.
MANEUVERING AROUND THE TREE
---------------------------
In this section we will discuss the methods used for maneuvering
around a directory tree in OSCAR.
Our first discussion will center around maneuvering throughout a
tree in VIEW MODE then I will discuss moving around in COPY, MOVE
and ERASE MODE's.
Maneuvering Around in View Mode
------------------------------
Suppose our "tree" on drive D: looks like this:
\Root
|
|--FOOBAR
|--WALTER-------|--INVENTOR-------|--PUBLIC
| | |--STUFF
| |--HELPME
|--IMLOST
We will start our journey from the Root directory, travel
to the PUBLIC directory, then return back to the Root directory.
We will only be looking at the Source window; however, moving around
in the Destination window is identical. Here is what we see when
OSCAR initially loads the root directory in the Source window.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 11
|-------------| Source |---------------|
|D:\*.* | <--Shows the
|------------------------------------|-| current viewed
File cursor--> | FOOBAR <Dir> .... 1Jan80 | | drive and
| WALTER <Dir> .... 1Jan81 | | directory.
Secondary mark!--> |.OSCAR COM 33,190 ...A 7Jul91 | | (e.g. We are
| IMLOST <Dir> .... 1Jan80 | | viewing drive
| | | D:'s Root dir
| | | and we are
NOTE: | | | viewing all
This window | | | files *.*)
is representative | | |
of what you would | | |
see for our | | |
"imaginary" drive | | |
in this example | | |
only! Your | | |
display will be | | |
different. | | |
| | |
| | |
|------------------------------------| |
| File(s) 4 Free 10,260,480 | |
|------------------------------------|-|
Notice that all the root directories are listed. It is important
to note that "OSCAR.COM" has a secondary mark, because when you leave
the current directory you will LOSE that mark! Now, to start our
journey toward the subdirectory "PUBLIC" we will use the down arrow
key to highlight "WALTER" with the file cursor. Next we will strike
return to start our outward journey.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 12
OSCAR "Views" the subdirectory "WALTER" giving us the following
display:
|-------------| Source |---------------|
|D:\WALTER\*.* |
|------------------------------------|-|
File cursor--> | \Root | |
| \ | |
| INVENTOR <Dir> .... 1Jan80 | |
| OSCAR DOC 255,190 R... 7Jul91 | |
| HELPME <Dir> .... 1Jan80 | |
| READ_ME DOC 2,048 ...A 7Jul90 | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|------------------------------------| |
| File(s) 6 Free 10,260,480 | |
|------------------------------------|-|
Notice that now there are two new entries at the top of the
Source window. If you were to strike return with the "\Root"
entry highlighted by the file cursor you would be returned to
the root directory (i.e. the first screen we saw) the second
entry "\" would also return us to the root. Later we will see
how the second entry will enable us to return to the previous
directory.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 13
Now, we will continue our journey out to "PUBLIC" by using
the arrow keys to highlight "INVENTOR" and then striking return to
"View" the subdirectory "INVENTOR". OSCAR loads this subdirectory
and gives us the following display:
|-------------| Source |---------------|
|D:\WALTER\INVENTOR\*.* |
|------------------------------------|-|
File cursor--> | \Root | |
| \WALTER\ | |
| PUBLIC <Dir> .... 1Jan80 | |
| OSCARHDI COM 5,190 ...A 7Jul91 | |
| STUFF <Dir> .... 1Jan80 | |
| CURSOR 8 24,102 ...A 7Jul91 | |
| OVERWRT 8 5,032 ...A 7Jul91 | |
| DISPATCH 8 32,456 ...A 7Jul91 | |
| MACROS 8 12 ...A 7Jul91 | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|------------------------------------| |
| File(s) 9 Free 10,260,480 | |
|------------------------------------|-|
Notice the second entry now reads "\WALTER\". If we were to
strike return on this entry we would move back to the directory
we just came from.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 14
Now we will use the jump to files feature to highlight "PUBLIC".
To do this we strike the letter "P" on the keyboard and OSCAR
immediately jumps down to highlight "PUBLIC". We then strike return
to "View" the subdirectory "PUBLIC".
|-------------| Source |---------------|
|D:\WALTER\INVENTOR\PUBLIC\*.* |
|------------------------------------|-|
File cursor--> | \Root | |
| \WALTER\INVENTOR\ | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
|------------------------------------| |
| File(s) 2 Free 10,260,480 | |
|------------------------------------|-|
And, here we are in the subdirectory "D:\WALTER\INVENTOR\PUBLIC"
Well, that wasn't too bad. But look for OSCAR to start displaying
a graphical tree in the not to distant future for easier moving around.
Returning back to the root is easy, just highlight "\Root" and you
will be returned back to where we started, in the root directory
of drive "D:".
Maneuvering Around in Copy, Move and Erase Modes
-----------------------------------------------
Moving around in Copy, Move and Erase mode is almost identical to
moving around in View mode except for the following two considerations:
1) To view a subdirectory, or file, use the hot key "Alt-V".
2) When viewing a new directory remember, ALL file marks WILL
be LOST!
Swapping the Windows
--------------------
There may be a time when you would like to swap the contents of
the windows (i.e. Move the contents of the Source window into the
Destination window and visa-versa). To do this simply press the
Tab key on your keyboard.
NOTE: If you have files marked you will LOSE ALL marks.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 15
THE "MODES" OF OPERATION
========================
OSCAR currently has four (4) "MODES" of operation, they are:
* VIEW MODE (For directly Viewing files. You supply the viewer.)
* ERASE MODE (For Erasing marked or highlighted files/directories.)
* COPY MODE (For Copying marked files.)
* MOVE MODE (For Moving marked files.)
VIEW MODE
---------
When OSCAR first comes up you will be in "VIEW MODE". In
VIEW mode you have full control of the file cursor, you may change
windows freely. You may also mark files in the SOURCE window for
possible future action. All marks in View Mode are secondary marks,
that is, they haven't actually become full-fledged marks. Secondary
marks are represented by a bright dot while full-fledged marks are
represented by a bright arrow pointing to the file. You may mark
files in VIEW MODE by using the following keys:
Ins...Marks ALL files in the current directory
Del...UnMarks ALL files in the current directory
+ ...Marks the highlighted file
- ...UnMarks the highlighted file
* ...Wild Card marking
In View Mode you may view or edit files by striking return on
the highlighted file. OSCAR then invokes your viewer/editor and
passes the highlighted filename to your editor. To return to OSCAR
just exit (quit) your editor.
Active keys in VIEW MODE
------------------------
a..Z ..........Jumps to the respective file.
Ins ...........Secondary marks all files.
Del ...........Removes all secondary marks.
Tab ...........Swaps the windows.
+ ............Secondary marks the highlighted file.
- ............Removes the highlighted file's secondary mark.
* ............Invokes the Wild Card marking facility.
F1 ............Displays the help screen.
F2 ............Invokes the sort method menu.
F3 ............Executes the highlighted file (.COM, .EXE or .BAT).
F10 ...........Invokes the Files pull down menu.
Alt-A .........Invokes the Change Attribute Facility.
Alt-C .........Enters COPY MODE.
Alt-D .........Change Destination Drive.
Alt-E .........Enters ERASE MODE.
Alt-F .........Invokes the Files pull down menu.
Alt-M .........Enters MOVE MODE.
Alt-N .........Invokes New Directory facility.
Alt-O .........Invokes the Options pull down menu.
Alt-R .........Invokes the Rename facility.
Alt-S .........Change the Source Drive.
Alt-V .........View the Highlighted file or directory.
Alt-X .........Exits OSCAR.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 16
Arrow Up ......Move file cursor up.
Arrow Dn ......Move file cursor down.
Arrow Left ....Change the active window.
Arrow Right ...Change the active window.
Space Bar......Move file cursor down.
Return ........View the Highlighted file or directory.
Escape ........Exits OSCAR.
ERASE MODE
----------
In "ERASE MODE" you may only mark files for action in the SOURCE
window. Notice that as you mark files the free space is updated at
the bottom of the Source window for each file that you mark.
Erase Mode also will allow you to erase the highlighted file or
directory by striking Return on the highlighted file/directory.
To use this feature you must NOT have any files marked.
(See MARKING FILES)
If you DO have files marked and strike return OSCAR will
bring up the ERASE verification window. This window is just
a double check to see if all the files you wish to erase are
correctly listed. If everything looks "right" press (Y) to
begin the erase procedure. If you don't like what you see press
return or Escape to exit the ERASE procedure.
Active keys in ERASE MODE
------------------------
a..Z ..........Jumps to the respective file.
Ins ...........Primary marks all files.
Del ...........Removes all primary marks.
Tab ...........Swaps the windows.
+ ............Primary marks the highlighted file.
- ............Removes the highlighted file's primary mark.
* ............Invokes the Wild Card mark facility.
F1 ............Displays the help screen.
F2 ............Invokes the sort method menu.
F3 ............Executes the highlighted file (.COM, .EXE or .BAT).
F10 ...........Invokes the Files pull down menu.
Alt-A .........Invokes the Change Attribute Facility.
Alt-C .........Enters COPY MODE.
Alt-D .........Change Destination Drive.
Alt-F .........Invokes the Files pull down menu.
Alt-M .........Enters MOVE MODE.
Alt-N .........Invokes New Directory facility.
Alt-O .........Invokes the Options pull down menu.
Alt-R .........Invokes the Rename facility.
Alt-S .........Change the Source Drive.
Alt-V .........View the Highlighted file or directory.
Alt-X .........Exits ERASE MODE (Puts you back in VIEW MODE).
Arrow Up ......Move file cursor up.
Arrow Dn ......Move file cursor down.
Space Bar......Move file cursor down.
Return ........Erase the Highlighted or marked file(s)/directory.
Escape ........Exits ERASE MODE (Puts you back in VIEW MODE).
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 17
COPY MODE
---------
Like in Erase Mode you may ONLY mark files for action in the
SOURCE window. Take note of the DESTINATION free space at the
bottom of the destination window is updated for each file that
you mark.
Please note that OSCAR will mark files that will "Fit" on the
destination drive with primary marks (bright arrows) and will mark
files that will NOT "Fit" with secondary marks (bright dots).
This brings us to a "feature" of OSCAR.
COPY FEATURE:
-------------
Suppose you have a whole slew of files in a directory on your
hard drive you would like to copy to diskettes for transportation.
Instead of using A LOT of diskettes with unused space on them you
would like to 'squeeze' as much on them as possible. Put away
your calculator because OSCAR will give you the optimum fit easily!
Follow these steps for optimum fit:
1. Enter COPY MODE.
2. Put a blank formatted diskette into A or B drive
and select that drive for your destination (Alt-D).
3. Freely mark the files that you wish to copy using (+)
or (*).
4. Pull down the Option menu (Alt-O) and select "Tight fit".
5. Strike return and answer yes(Y) at the Copy Verification
window.
Don't worry if OSCAR didn't primary mark all the files you wished
to copy. They couldn't all fit on the destination and OSCAR will
prompt you for a new destination if you wish to continue copying
files.
If you do want to continue copying the remaining files to another
floppy change diskettes and answer Yes(Y) to the Continue Copying
window. Keep doing this until all your files have been copied.
Please note that if you answer No(N) then OSCAR will remove your
remaining file marks! I have done this on the premise that if you
don't what to continue copying files then why do you need the marks?
If anyone has a problem with this let me know and I'll change it.
Remember, after you have marked files for COPY you may still change
your destination "at will" and OSCAR will recalculate what files will
fit!
If you DO have files marked and strike return OSCAR will
bring up the COPY verification window. This window is just
a double check to see if all the files you wish to copy are
correctly listed. If everything looks "right" press (Y) to
begin the copy procedure. If you don't like what you see press
return or Escape to exit the COPY procedure.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 18
Active keys in COPY MODE
------------------------
a..Z ..........Jumps to the respective file.
Ins ...........Primary marks all files.
Del ...........Removes all primary marks.
Tab ...........Swaps the windows.
+ ............Primary marks the highlighted file.
- ............Removes the highlighted file's primary mark.
* ............Invokes the Wild Card mark facility.
F1 ............Displays the help screen.
F2 ............Invokes the sort method menu.
F3 ............Executes the highlighted file (.COM, .EXE or .BAT).
F10 ...........Invokes the Files pull down menu.
Alt-A .........Invokes the Change Attribute Facility.
Alt-D .........Change Destination Drive.
Alt-E .........Enters ERASE MODE.
Alt-F .........Invokes the Files pull down menu.
Alt-M .........Enters MOVE MODE.
Alt-N .........Invokes New Directory facility.
Alt-O .........Invokes the Options pull down menu.
Alt-R .........Invokes the Rename facility.
Alt-S .........Change the Source Drive.
Alt-V .........View the Highlighted file or directory.
Alt-X .........Exits COPY MODE (Puts you back in VIEW MODE).
Arrow Up ......Move file cursor up.
Arrow Dn ......Move file cursor down.
Space Bar .....Move file cursor down.
Return ........Erase the Highlighted or marked file(s)/directory.
Escape ........Exits COPY MODE (Puts you back in VIEW MODE).
MOVE MODE
---------
Move Mode works exactly like Copy Mode except that files are
moved from the source window to the destination window. That is
the files are copied from the source window to the destination
and then the file is deleted from the source. If the Source and
Destination drives are the same OSCAR uses the more efficient RENAME
feature of DOS when moving the files (i.e. It's a WHOLE lot Faster!).
The Copy feature works exactly the same for Move Mode.
(see Copy feature above)
Remember, after you have marked files for MOVE you may still change
your destination "at will" and OSCAR will recalculate what files will
fit!
If you DO have files marked and strike return OSCAR will
bring up the MOVE verification window. This window is just
a double check to see if all the files you wish to move are
correctly listed. If everything looks "right" press (Y) to
begin the move procedure. If you don't like what you see press
return or Escape to exit the MOVE procedure.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 19
Active keys in MOVE MODE
------------------------
a..Z ..........Jumps to the respective file.
Ins ...........Primary marks all files.
Del ...........Removes all primary marks.
Tab ...........Swaps the windows.
+ ............Primary marks the highlighted file.
- ............Removes the highlighted file's primary mark.
* ............Invokes the Wild Card mark facility.
F1 ............Displays the help screen.
F2 ............Invokes the sort method menu.
F3 ............Executes the highlighted file (.COM, .EXE or .BAT).
F10 ...........Invokes the Files pull down menu.
Alt-A .........Invokes the Change Attribute Facility.
Alt-C .........Enters COPY MODE.
Alt-D .........Change Destination Drive.
Alt-E .........Enters ERASE MODE
Alt-F .........Invokes the Files pull down menu.
Alt-N .........Invokes New Directory facility.
Alt-O .........Invokes the Options pull down menu.
Alt-R .........Invokes the Rename facility.
Alt-S .........Change the Source Drive.
Alt-V .........View the Highlighted file or directory.
Alt-X .........Exits ERASE MODE (Puts you back in VIEW MODE).
Arrow Up ......Move file cursor up.
Arrow Dn ......Move file cursor down.
Space Bar......Move file cursor down.
Return ........Erase the Highlighted or marked file(s)/directory.
Escape ........Exits ERASE MODE (Puts you back in VIEW MODE).
MARKING FILES
-------------
There are currently 3 ways for you to mark files:
1) Individually.
2) By wild card.
3) Mark/UnMark all.
You may mark files individually by highlighting the file you
wish to mark and pressing the '+' key or press the '-' key to
unmark.
To mark/unmark files by wild card press the '*' key to invoke
the wild card menu. When in the menu you may mark multiple wild cards
for operation by highlighting the mask to use and pressing '+' or '-'
and striking return OR, you may simply strike return on the mask you
wish to use. (see WILD CARD MARKING)
To mark all the viewed files press insert (ins).
To UNmark all the viewed files press delete (del).
WILD CARD MARKING
-----------------
To wild card mark a mess of files in the source window press
'*'. You will then be in the wild card marking facility. Select
a mark type by using the up/down arrow keys or space bar and
striking return (Esc aborts). Then the mask table will appear.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 20
While in the mask table the following keys are active:
Arrow up.......Moves the mask cursor up.
Arrow down.....Moves the mask cursor down.
+ ............Marks the highlighted mask.
- ............Unmarks the highlighted mask.
Space Bar......Moves the mask cursor down.
Return.........Marks files according to the marked or
highlighted mask(s).
Escape.........Exits the mask table without marking.
Also on the table is a entry called "Make a Mask". If you
highlight this entry and press return a box will open to allow
you to enter a ONE time mask. This is helpful if you don't see
the mask you wish to use on the table. When entering the mask
all wild cards recognized by DOS are recognized (?, *) leading
blanks are truncated.
RUNNING (EXECing) A FILE
------------------------
To run, or execute, a file take the following steps:
1) Highlight the file you wish to run (COM, EXE or BAT).
2) Press F3 to invoke the Run a File facility.
3) If the file is a .COM or .EXE file you will be prompted
for a command tail. Strike return if none.
4) OSCAR will run the file.
5) To return to OSCAR exit or quit the program that
you executed.
What is a "command tail"?:
--------------------------
A command tail is anything that you would type AFTER the
filename at the DOS command prompt ("d:\>").
Example: C:\>PKUNZIP[.EXE] -C OSCAR100.EXE
^ ^
| |_Everything from here to the
| end is the Command Tail.
|_Filename you are running
NOTE: There is a chance that DOS or OSCAR will not be able to
run your selected file. If this is the case you will
see an error message and an error code.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 21
Possible error codes and their meanings:
Code Means
---- ---------------------
02 file not found
03 path not found
04 too many open files
05 access denied
08 insufficient memory
13 disk write protected
15 drive not ready
1B sector not found
1D write fault
1E read fault
1F general failure
22 disk change invalid
SHELLing OUT TO DOS
-------------------
To shell out to DOS press F4. This will give you the DOS
prompt at the current active drive and directory.
Type 'EXIT' to return to OSCAR.
SORTING FILES
-------------
To sort the viewed files press F2 and select a sort method
by using space bar and up/down arrow keys to highlight the sort
you want and strike return (Escape will exit the Sort menu with
no change in the current sort method).
Current Sort menu selections are:
Filename.....Ascending sort by Filename (Nested Extension).
Extension....Ascending sort by Extension (Nested Filename).
Date.........Ascending sort by Date (Nested Filename, Extension).
Size.........Descending sort by Size (Nested Filename, Extension).
No Sort......No sort (Disp. files the way they are saved on disk).
When you activate the Sort menu you will notice an arrow
marking one of the above choices, this indicates which sort
is currently in use.
RENAMING FILES OR DIRECTORIES
-----------------------------
To rename a file or directory take the following steps:
1) Highlight the file or directory you wish to rename.
2) Enable the Rename facility by hot key (Alt-R) or
thru the Files menu.
3) Enter the new name when prompted and strike return.
(Escape aborts.)
4) OSCAR will rename the file or directory if the new
name is valid (i.e. the name you enter has no wild
cards '?' or '*').
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 22
NOTE: To rename a Directory you MUST have DOS version 3.00 or
higher!
SETTING FILE ATTRIBUTES
-----------------------
To set the file attributes in the active directory use the hot
key selection of Alt-A this will enable the Attribute facility.
The following keys are active in the Attribute window:
Space Bar.....Toggles the highlighted attribute (Yes, No).
Arrow right...Moves the attribute cursor to the right.
Arrow left....Moves the attribute cursor to the left.
Arrow down....Moves the file cursor down.
Arrow up......Moves the file cursor up.
a..Z .........Jumps thru the viewed directories files.
Return........Sets the file attributes.
Escape........Exits the Attribute facility
Example:
Let's say you would like to set the attributes on a file named
"FOO.COM" to be Read-Only, System, and Archive. To accomplish this
do the following:
1) Highlight the file "FOO.COM".
2) Enable the Attribute facility by hot key selection (Alt-A)
or thru the File menu (Alt-F or F10).
3) Use the right and left arrow keys and the space bar
to toggle the Read-Only, System, and Archive bits so
they read "Yes" and all other bits read "No".
4) Strike return when you are satisfied that the bits
read correctly, this will "Set" the attributes for the
file. (Notice that the attributes are updated on the
screen to reflect your changes.)
5) Press Escape to exit the Attribute facility.
Special NOTE:
-------------
You do NOT actually set the highlighted file's attributes UNTIL
you strike return. Merely toggling the bits and pressing Escape,
or moving to a different file thru the arrow up/down keys, will NOT
set the file's attributes to what you toggled. You MUST strike
return to set the new attributes.
OSCAR will even allow you to "hide" directories. To do this
simply set the hidden bit to "yes" in the archive facility.
FILE ATTRIBUTES
---------------
If you are unclear what "file attributes" are maybe this will
help to clear things up.
DOS allows you to assign special flags to files and directories.
These flags are used internally by DOS for certain functions and
some, all or none of these flags are set when you create a new file
or update an existing file (edit). These flags are referred to as
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 23
file "attributes". Many programs utilize the file flags in their
operation but there are some programs that totally ignore the flags.
Example:
When you use your favorite word processor to type a letter to
Mom, your word processor sets the archive flag on the file you
just created. This flag can then be inspected by another program
to determine what to do with the file. Most of us have no need to
know or even care about this information, however armed with the
knowledge of file attributes we open up another door to taking
control of our PC's.
File attributes and generally what they are used for.
-----------------------------------------------------
Archive.........Used by DOS's BACKUP program to determine
if a file should be backed up. If this flag
is set the BACKUP program knows that this file
is new or changed since the last BACKUP and it
must be backed up again. After the file has
been backed up the BACKUP program clears this
flag.
System..........Mainly a carry over from UNIX. If this flag is
set it means that the file is part of the an
operating system. (e.g. files such as MSDOS.COM,
IBMBIOS.COM usually have this flag set)
Read Only.......This flag tells DOS whether the file can be
changed or not. Files with this flag set cannot
be deleted or changed by DOS. (a very handy
feature!) Remember, OSCAR can and WILL delete
Read Only files, if you want to.
Hidden..........If this flag is set the file will NOT appear
in a directory listing by DOS. (another very
handy feature!) Remember, OSCAR shows ALL files,
even hidden files. This flag has the little
known ability to "hide" directories and it is
the only flag that can be set on a directory.
CREATING DIRECTORIES
--------------------
To create a subdirectory, in the current active directory, use
the hot key selection of Alt-N. You will be prompted for a new
directory name, and IF the name is valid, OSCAR will create it and
put you there!
Example:
Let's say you wish to create a new SubDirectory called "STUFF"
in the current active directory. To accomplish this do the
following:
1) Activate the New Directory facility by hot key (Alt-N)
or thru the File menu (Alt-F or F10).
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 24
2) You will be prompted for the new directory name.
Enter "STUFF". (The Escape key aborts.)
3) Press return to accept the new name.
4) If the directory name is valid (i.e. No wild cards, ? or
*, and it doesn't already exist) OSCAR will create the
directory and put you "in" the new directory.
ERASING DIRECTORIES
-------------------
To erase (remove) a directory take the following steps:
1) Enter Erase Mode by hot key (Alt-E) or thru
the File menu (Alt-F or F10).
2) Highlight the directory that you wish to erase using
arrow up/down and/or "Jump to" files feature.
3) Make sure you have NO files marked by using the Del
(Delete) key on your keyboard.
4) Strike return and answer "Y" to the "Erase Directory?"
prompt.
5) OSCAR will erase the directory ONLY if it is empty.
SETTING THE VIEWER/EDITOR
-------------------------
To initially set the Viewer/Editor just strike return with a file
highlighted. OSCAR will prompt you for a new editor path name.
You MUST enter the entire drive, path, and filename of your editor!
Example:
Let's say you wish to use LIST.COM as a file Viewer for OSCAR.
To set up OSCAR to call LIST, take the following steps:
1) Make sure you know the ENTIRE drive, path, and filename
of LIST.
Where: "drive" refers to the disk drive that LIST is located on.
"path" refers to the subdirectory location of LIST.
"filename" refers to the entire filename of LIST.
For this example let's suppose that LIST is on drive E:, in
the subdirectory \UTIL, and LIST's entire filename is LIST.COM.
2) Make sure you are in VIEW mode and have a file Highlighted.
3) Strike Return to invoke the Viewer/Editor installation
window.
4) Answer yes (Y) to "Do you wish to enter a new viewer/editor
pathname?"
5) Enter the FULL drive, path and filename for LIST.
In this example you would enter,
"E:\UTIL\LIST.COM" (Without the quotes of course)
6) Strike return when you have entered the correct drive,
path and filename.
7) If you have entered everything correctly OSCAR will call
up LIST passing to LIST the highlighted file for viewing.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 25
NOTE: OSCAR will attempt to "save" the viewer editor so every time
you run OSCAR the viewer will already be installed. If you
are greeted by an error message, this means that OSCAR could
not find the main OSCAR.COM file to save the new information.
If this is the case you will still be able to view files,
however the next time OSCAR is loaded you must enter the data
again to view/edit files. (see INSTALLATION ON A HARD DRIVE
above for proper installation of OSCAR.)
Special NOTE: It has come to my attention that having to enter the
entire drive path and filename is a REAL pain in the
butt! So in the not to distant future, probably as
you are reading this, I will be working on an upgrade
to make life easier when selecting a new Viewer/Editor.
LIMITATIONS OF OSCAR
--------------------
OSCAR currently requires about 70k-128k of memory to run.
File handling capability: 356 files in a directory.
DOS version 2.0 or higher is required.
At least 2 disk drives are required.
NOTE:
OSCAR will give an accurate display of free space ONLY if
you don't use a hard drive compression program! A hard drive
compression program compresses/decompresses files as they are
run saving drive space. While these programs are excellent
for the purpose of saving disk space there is NO way I can
determine the compression size of a file BEFORE it is
transferred to, or from, your hard drive! Sorry.
CLOSING COMMENTS
----------------
OSCAR is still in its infancy, but is growing at light speed.
Your comments are encouraged and greatly appreciated for they help
me to bring a truly usable program to the people and hopefully some
thing that is easy to use and powerful. If you don't like a feature,
have an idea for improvement, wish to comment, OR you would like to
register please feel free to drop me a line.
FUTURE PLANS
------------
These are ideas that I plan on implementing in future versions
of OSCAR. They are in no particular order of importance and the
list may not show all ideas for improvement. I cannot guarantee
in what version or time period that they will be implemented and
available. I'll do my best.
* After drive selection, a presentation of the selected
drive's directory tree for selection of a subdirectory.
* A TREE MODE in which entire branches of subdirectories
may be operated on and still keep with the OSCAR exclusive
report on free space BEFORE the operation is started.
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 26
* OSCARV an intelligent viewer to be used with OSCAR.
* Increased file handling capability.
* Improved marking abilities.
* Hooks for using PKUNZIP to unpack selected files in
ZIP or EXE files still giving a report on free space
BEFORE the unpacking procedure.
* Ascending/Descending sort selection.
* Edit the Wild Card Masks.
* On-line context sensitive help.
* Multiple viewed files mask.
* PRINT MODE for printing marked files.
* RESURRECT MODE for recovering Erased (deleted) files.
* A mouse interface.
* Color implementation.
Pretty ambitious don't you think? However, don't be misled that
OSCAR is limited in what it can do. In it's present incarnation
OSCAR is a powerful and useful utility that I hope you can and will
use. Remember, your support helps me to improve this product and
hopefully bring to you a powerful utility you won't what to be
without.
DISCLAIMER - LICENSE AGREEMENT
==============================
Users of OSCAR must accept this disclaimer of warranty:
"OSCAR is supplied as is. The author ,Duane P. Fridley, disclaims
all warranties, expressed or implied, including, without limitation,
the warranties of merchantability and of fitness for any purpose.
The author assumes no liability for damages, direct or conse-
quential, which may result from the use of OSCAR."
OSCAR is a "shareware program" and is provided at no charge
to the user for evaluation. Feel free to share it with your
friends, but please do not give it away altered or as part of
another system. The essence of "user-supported" software is to
provide personal computer users with quality software without
high prices, and yet to provide incentive for programmers to
continue to develop new products. If you find this program
useful and find that you are using OSCAR and continue to use
OSCAR after a reasonable trial period, you must make a reg-
istration payment of $20 to Duane P. Fridley. The $20
registration fee will license one copy for use on any one
computer at any one time. You must treat this software just like
OSCAR v1.04 Manual Page - 27
a book. An example is that this software may be used by any
number of people and may be freely moved from one computer
location to another, so long as there is no possibility of it
being used at one location while it's being used at another.
Just as a book cannot be read by two different persons at the
same time.
Commercial users of OSCAR must register and pay for their
copies of OSCAR within 30 days of first use or their license
is withdrawn. Site-License arrangements may be made by con-
tacting Duane P. Fridley.
Anyone distributing OSCAR for any kind of remuneration must
first contact Duane P. Fridley at the address below for
authorization. This authorization will be automatically granted
to distributors recognized by the (ASP) as adhering to its guidelines
for shareware distributors, and such distributors may begin offering
OSCAR immediately (However Duane P. Fridley must still be advised so
that the distributor can be kept up-to-date with the latest
version of OSCAR.).
You are encouraged to pass a copy of OSCAR along to your
friends for evaluation. Please encourage them to register their
copy if they find that they can use it. All registered users
will receive a copy of the latest version of the OSCAR system, bug
notices, notices of new releases, AND can receive, newer, major
releases (i.e. 2.0, 3.0, etc...), at the cost of $10.
Duane P. Fridley
6220 Newberry Rd. #115
Indianapolis, In. 46256
Ph. (317) 595-9214
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
---------------
Special thanks to Scott Farnsley for his useful comments while I was
developing this program, Robin Yarnell for Bug Reports, and my father
Gene Fridley who forever changes the way I look at things. And last
but not least my "room doggie", Roger Yount, for the name OSCAR (if you
want to know "Why OSCAR?" ask him!).
OSCAR was written entirely using A86 and D86, that superb shareware
assembler and debugger by Eric Isaacson.
****************************************************************************
* Support shareware! REGISTER YOUR USE! *
* *
* Your support helps Authors to develop software packages such as this one!*
****************************************************************************
A86 and D86 are Copyright 1990 by Eric Isaacson
PKUNZIP is Copyright 1990 by PKWARE Inc.
LIST is Copyright 1983-1990 by Vernon D. Buerg
THIS PROGRAM AND MANUAL ARE COPYRIGHT (C) 1991 BY DUANE P. FRIDLEY
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
