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ZIP'R Professional
For Windows
Version 2.25
Copyright c 1993-1996 by
Stevenson Technical Services, Incorporated
108 Second Avenue West, PO Box 297
Bertha MN 56437-0297 USA
Phone/FAX: 218-924-2050
The STSI BBS: 218-924-2060
Internet: http://www.stevetech.com
E-Mail: support@stevetech.com
Welcome!
Thank you for using ZIP'R Professional For Windows! ZIP'R Pro is
a hard drive utility designed to automatically decompress an
entire program before it is executed, launch the program, and
compress it after it is exited, all accomplished within the
Windows environment. This process saves valuable hard drive
space by storing programs in compressed form when they are not in
use. ZIP'R Pro can use an existing compression program such as
PKZIP / PKUNZIP, ARJ, or LHA, or it can use built-in compression
that is compatible with PKZIP 2.0!
Requirements
To run ZIP'R Pro reliably, you will need the following:
· Windows 3.1 or Higher & A Mouse
· IBM PC, PC-Compatible or MS-DOS Computer
· Hard Drive and 640K RAM
· EGA Color or VGA Color Monitor
Disclaimer / License Agreement
What is 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 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.
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.
Disclaimer - Agreement
By using ZIP'R Professional For Windows, users indicate their
acceptance of the following terms:
"ZIP'R Professional For Windows is supplied as is. The author
disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, including,
without limitation, the warranties of merchantability and of
fitness for any purpose. Neither STSI, The STSI BBS, or any
STSI employees will be held responsible for any damages, direct
or consequential, which may result from the use of ZIP'R
Professional For Windows."
"Information in this documentation is subject to change without
notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of STSI.
STSI may make improvements and/or changes in this documentation
or in the products and/or programs described in this
documentation at any time."
ZIP'R Professional For Windows 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 ZIP'R
Pro and continue to use ZIP'R Pro after a reasonable trial
period, you must make a registration payment of $49.95 (+S&H) to
Stevenson Technical Services, Inc. (STSI). This registration fee
will license one copy for use on any one computer at any one
time. You must treat this software just like 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, ZIP'R Pro should not be used
on two different computers at the same time.
Commercial users of ZIP'R Professional For Windows must register
and pay for their copies of ZIP'R Professional For Windows within
30 days of first use or their license is withdrawn. Site-License
arrangements may be made by contacting STSI at (218) 924-2050.
Anyone distributing ZIP'R Pro for any kind of remuneration must
first contact STSI 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 ZIP'R Pro immediately. (However
STSI must still be advised so that the distributor can be kept up-
to-date with the latest version of ZIP'R Pro.)
You are encouraged to pass a copy of ZIP'R Pro 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 ZIP'R Pro, along
with a printed manual and bonus disks.
ASP Notice:
STSI is a member of the Association of Shareware Professionals
(ASP). ASP wants to make sure that the shareware principle works
for you. If you are unable to resolve a shareware-related
problem with an ASP member by contacting the member directly, ASP
may be able to help. The ASP Ombudsman can help you resolve a
dispute or problem with an ASP member, but does not provide
technical support for members' products. Please write to the ASP
Ombudsman at 545 Grover Road, Muskegon, MI 49442-9427 USA, FAX
616-788-2765 or send a CompuServe message via CompuServe Mail to
ASP Ombudsman 70007,3536.
Registration
ZIP'R Pro is distributed under the shareware concept. You may
try ZIP'R Pro for a period of two weeks. After this period, you
must either discontinue using it, or register it. A single-user
license is only $49.95 (+$5.00 S&H in the U.S., or $10.00 S&H on
Foreign Orders). This price includes a printed manual, the
latest version on 3 1/2" diskette, and a Registration Name and
Number (good for all 2.x releases) allowing you to register your
copy of ZIP'R Pro.
To receive a temporary registration number over the telephone,
call STSI at (218) 924-2050, and charge it to your Visa,
MasterCard, American Express, or Discover credit card. Upon
request, you will receive a temporary registration name and
number over the telephone that can be used until you receive your
actual registration package in the mail. This will allow the
creation of more than 5 ZPW files and the removal of all nag
screens (including the About Box). For further registration
information and pricing, please read the REGISTER.DOC file
included with ZIP'R Pro.
If you are already a registered user of ZIP'R Pro For Windows,
you should have received a registration name and number with your
registration packet. Information is contained in this manual
about how to register your copy of ZIP'R Pro to remove any
limitations or nag screens.
How To Order
To register, do ONE of the following (whichever you prefer):
1. Call The STSI BBS at 218-924-2060 and order online. We
accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit
cards. This method of ordering can be performed 24-hours a day,
7-days a week. (Ordering this way is fast and easy, allowing us
to process your request quickly.)
2. To order using our voice line, call 218-924-2050. Please
have your credit card handy.
3. You can FAX your order to 218-924-2050. Simply fill out the
registration form provided with the program (REGISTER.DOC),
include your credit card information on the bottom of the form,
and sign it. (Most FAX transmissions will be automatically
routed to the FAX machine. If you have problems reaching our FAX
machine, wait until after the first ring, press 11, and then
begin transmitting.)
4. Send PRIVATE CompuServe mail to 76300,3066, stating that you
would like to register this program. Please include your name,
address, telephone number, credit card number, and credit card
expiration date. Also include the name you want the program
registered to, such as your company's name, etc. If you want to
receive a temporary registration code that can be used until you
receive your order in the mail, simply request this, as well.
(Comments and questions are also welcome when you place your
order.)
5. Mail the registration form along with your payment to:
Stevenson Technical Services, Inc. (STSI)
108 2nd Avenue West, PO Box 297
Bertha, MN 56437-0297 USA.
Technical Support:
Technical support is available through the following means:
Internet:
Access STSI's internet home page at http://www.stevetech.com.
Check the bulletins for information on the latest versions of
our software. Software updates can be downloaded through our
web site or via anonymous ftp to stevetech.com (files are
located in the \pub directory).
Internet Mail:
STSI will respond to messages sent via the Internet. Send any
tech support related questions, comments, or suggestions to
support@stevetech.com.
The STSI BBS:
New versions of this program will be posted here as soon as
they are available. The STSI BBS uses a U.S. Robotics
V.Everything modem, which is capable of V.FAST, V.32bis, V.32,
and 2400 baud connect speeds. The access number for The STSI
BBS is 218-924-2060. Technical support questions posted on the
bulletin board system should be addressed to Craig Stevenson.
STSI FAX:
STSI has a FAX machine on-line 24 hours-a-day to accept FAX
transmissions. Technical support questions / problems may be
faxed to 218-924-2050. Most FAX transmissions will be
automatically routed to the FAX machine. If you have problems
reaching our FAX machine, wait until after the first ring,
press 11, and then begin transmitting.
Telephone:
Technical support calls may be placed at (218) 924-2050. Office
hours are from 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, Monday thru Friday, Central
Standard Time (CST).
Please read the following before placing a technical support call
to STSI:
1. Read the documentation files (and the help screens, if
available). Most questions can be answered by simply reading the
docs.
2. If you have a modem, call The STSI BBS and download the
latest version. (Read Bulletin #1 on our BBS to find out the
latest version and release date of this program. When
downloading a file, keep in mind that STSI's programs are always
posted in area 27.) After you download the latest version, try
it and see if you are still experiencing the same problem. We
attempt to fix problems as soon as we become aware of them, and
post the updated versions on the bulletin board system. (Check
the .REV revision file for information on feature enhancements
and bug-fixes.)
3. If you still cannot find an answer, contact us through one of
the means outlined above. We will do our best to assist you and
answer any questions you may have.
4. When calling or leaving a message, please be prepared to
answer the following questions: What version of this program are
you using? What problem(s) are you having, if any? What type of
computer CPU do you have (486DX2-66, etc.)? What version of DOS
are you using? Please be as specific as possible. The more
specific you are, the faster we will be able to assist you.
5. When placing a technical support call via telephone, please
be seated behind your computer. We may ask you to perform a
couple of simple tasks in order to help us narrow down any
potential problems.
6. When speaking with any of our employees, please be
considerate. Speak clearly, explaining your problem as carefully
as possible. Please do not use any harsh or inappropriate
(profane) language.
7. If one of our employees is able to help you, and you continue
to use this program, register it! We cannot continue to produce
quality programs without the continuing support of our users.
Installing ZIP'R Pro
Backup First!
Before using ZIP'R Pro for the first time, you should perform a
backup and test its integrity. Since ZIP'R Pro will compress
entire directories into a single file, your potential losses
are much greater if the compressed files become lost or
corrupt.
The Setup Program
From Program Manager, select File, Run. Browse for files, log
to the drive and directory where you are installing ZIP'R Pro
from, and execute the file "SETUP.EXE". The ZIP'R Pro For
Windows installation program will ask you where you are
installing ZIP'R Pro from (usually, the current directory), and
the location where the program files should be stored. The
default destination directory is C:\ZPROWIN. ZIP'R Pro can be
installed on any drive on your system, including network
drives.
After you select the destination directory, the setup program
will prompt you for the correct path to your \WINDOWS and
\WINDOWS\SYSTEM sub-directories. (ZIP'R Pro needs to copy
several PIF files to the \WINDOWS directory and a couple of
DLL's to the \WINDOWS\SYSTEM sub-directory in order to operate
properly.) Once you specify the correct Windows and System
directories, ZIP'R Pro will begin copying files from the source
path to the destination path. If you are upgrading from a
previous version, ZIP'R Pro will issue a warning before
overwriting the ZPROWIN.INI file. This file contains user-
specific settings, such as your registration name and number.
If you have already set up your registration information and/or
user preferences, answer "No" to instruct ZIP'R Pro not to
overwrite this file. When the installation process is
complete, ZIP'R Pro will prompt you whether you want it to
create a program manager group and icon. If you select Yes, a
group and icon will be created. Once this is complete, the
setup program will end.
Un-Installing ZIP'R Pro
If you decide that you do not want to use ZIP'R Pro or that it
does not meet your needs in some way, you can perform the
following steps to un-install it. (These steps assume that you
have a basic knowledge of DOS and DOS-based commands.)
1. Open an MS-DOS prompt.
2. Log to the directory where you installed ZIP'R Pro For
Windows (usually C:\ZPROWIN).
3. Erase the ZIP'R Pro program files and remove the directory.
4. If you originally installed ZIP'R Pro under Windows 3.1, log
to the Windows directory and erase the files ARJ.PIF, LHA.PIF,
PKZIP.PIF, and PKUNZIP.PIF. (If you originally installed ZIP'R
Pro under Windows 95, these files were not installed to your hard
drive.)
5. Log to the Windows - System directory and erase the files
XEXEC.DLL, XADOS.EXE, XADOS.PIF, XANT.EXE, XAWIN16.EXE, and
XAOS2.EXE.
6. One last file, called "BWCC.DLL" was copied to your
C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM sub-directory during the installation process.
Although this file was part of the ZIP'R Pro installation, you
may not want to delete it since other programs on your hard drive
may also need this file to operate properly. We recommend that
you do NOT delete this file.
7. When you have finished, type "EXIT" to return to Program
Manager.
ZIP'R Pro Feature List
ZIP'R Pro For Windows is a spin-off of the popular ZIP'R Pro For
DOS product. ZIP'R Pro For Windows contains most of the features
found in ZIP'R Pro For DOS. The following list shows some of the
features available in ZIP'R Pro For Windows.
· Automatic Compression & Decompression
· Automatic Program Launching
· Query Option (Optional Compression)
· Update Option (Fast Recompression)
· Sorted Extraction (PKUNZIP Only)
· Built-In Compression Routines
· Compression to Floppy Disks (PKZIP Only)
· Store Compression Files On Any Drive/Directory
· Compress/Decompress Only Option
· Automatic Network/Multitasker Detection
· On-Line Help Available
· Option To Test Archive Integrity
· Selective Extraction / Exclusion
10 Reasons To Use ZIP'R Pro
1. Saves Valuable Hard Drive Space!
Even though hard drive prices have dropped substantially in the
past year, the prices are still out of range for many computer
users. In addition, computer programs have become much larger,
requiring far more space than they used to. ZIP'R Pro can
double, and in some cases triple, the amount of data that can
be stored on a hard drive. Programs like SuperStor, Stacker,
and DoubleSpace typically achieve compression ratios around 30
- 35%. Even hard drives that use these on-the-fly compression
programs can usuallly save an extra 20% or more.
2. Does Not Require 40 - 50K Of Valuable Memory!
Programs like SuperStor, Stacker, and DoubleSpace require that
you surrender 40 - 50K of valuable conventional memory to use
their services. ZIP'R Pro does not! For users who are already
cramped for conventional memory, ZIP'R Pro is clearly the way
to go.
3. Automatically Executes Programs After Decompressing Them.
ZIP'R Pro automatically launches programs after they are
decompressed. This allows you to continue with your work while
ZIP'R Pro takes care of the rest. Rather than manually
decompressing, launching, and recompressing your program, ZIP'R
Pro makes the entire process automatic.
4. Works On Networks.
ZIP'R Pro has the built-in ability to detect when program
execution is occurring in a network environment. ZIP'R Pro
takes extra steps to protect your data, such as making sure
that no one else can access your program at the same time you
are using it. Potentially dangerous situations are monitored
and handled elegantly by ZIP'R Pro.
5. Safe and Reliable!
One comment we receive regularly from our users is that ZIP'R
Pro For DOS is "safe and reliable". We have taken steps to
make sure that same reliability exists in ZIP'R Pro For
Windows.
6. Store Compressed Programs On Any Drive And In Any
Subdirectory.
One feature of ZIP'R Pro is the ability to store compressed
files on any drive and in any subdirectory. This is a powerful
feature, giving you complete control of the compression and
decompression processes.
7. Compress Programs To Floppy Diskettes (PKZIP only)
Having the ability to store compressed files on floppy
diskettes gives you more flexibility, allowing you to
completely remove programs from your hard drive, if necessary.
A special switch within the ZIF Editor Pro allows you to turn
on DOS Verify, ensuring the integrity of your data.
8. Much Cheaper Than Buying A New Hard Drive!
ZIP'R Pro is a great way to double your hard drive capacity
without breaking your budget. Priced at just $49.95 (+$5.00
S&H, USA) (see REGISTER.DOC for more information), ZIP'R Pro
gives you the extra space you need to delay the purchase of
that next hard drive.
9. Compress programs at will using Query option.
Using ZIP'R Pro's Query option, users can decide on-the-fly
whether or not to compress a program. With a simple keypress,
ZIP'R Pro either recompresses the program, or leaves it
uncompressed during times when you're in-and-out more than
usual.
10. Update option makes program recompression fast and easy!
Using the Update option, (available only with PKZIP), ZIP'R Pro
can significantly speed up the recompression process. Rather
than waiting for a completely new compressed file to be
created, the old file is updated with any changes that have
occurred since the file was decompressed. You'll be amazed at
the dramatic difference in speed!
Getting Started / Tutorial
In order to understand how ZIP'R Pro works, it is a good idea to
test it on a simple program before attempting to use it on any
mission-critical applications. This section will walk you
through setting up a simple program and compressing it with ZIP'R
Pro. It uses the Solitaire program supplied with Microsoft
Windows 3.1, so everyone performing this test should see
successful results. This tutorial assumes that you have
successfully installed ZIP'R Pro and created a program group and
icon within Program Manager. It also assumes that Microsoft
Windows is located in the C:\WINDOWS directory on your hard
drive.
1. The first step is to create the test program that we will
compress in this tutorial. From Windows, open an MS-DOS
prompt, and change to the root directory of your C: drive by
typing the following commands:
C:
CD\
Then create a directory for the Microsoft Solitaire program
(using the DOS command to make a directory) by typing the
following:
MD SOL
Change to the Windows directory by typing the following:
CD\WINDOWS
Copy the files needed to run Solitaire to the SOL directory
we created by typing the following:
COPY SOL.* C:\SOL
Two or three files will be copied to the Solitaire directory
we created (SOL.EXE, SOL.HLP, and in some cases, SOL.INI).
When the copying process is finished, type "EXIT" to return
to Program Manager.
2. Execute ZIP'R Pro by double-clicking on the icon created in
Program Manager by the setup program. The ZIP'R Pro desktop
will appear. You will see the menu, but since you have not
created any .ZPW files yet, you will not see any icons within
the window. (A .ZPW file is a program customization file that
instructs ZIP'R Pro where the program is located, where the
compressed file should be created, and much more.)
3. Select New from the File menu (or click on the New File
button on the toolbar). The ZPW editing screen will be
displayed.
4. In the ZPW Filename field, enter "c:\zprowin\sol.zpw" (no
quotes). Press TAB to move to the Executable File field and
enter the name of the file to be executed. In this case, you
would enter "c:\sol\sol.exe" (again, don't enter the quotes).
If you prefer, you can use the Browse button to search for the
executable file and select it. When you press TAB to move to
the Parameters field, ZIP'R Pro automatically enters
"c:\sol\sol.zip" in the Compressed File field.
5. Solitaire does not require any parameters, so you can leave
the parameters field blank. Since this is a Windows
Application, you should also leave the Application Type field
set to "Windows App". The settings in the other fields do not
need to be changed.
6. Click on the Ok button. ZIP'R Pro will save this file as
"sol.zpw", and you will see an icon appear on the ZIP'R Pro
desktop. Note that all of the .ZPW files are stored in the
ZPROWIN sub-directory. (Normally "C:\ZPROWIN")
7. Click on the "SOL" icon, and ZIP'R Pro will prompt "Launch
sol now?". After clicking on the Yes button, ZIP'R Pro will
make sure that Solitaire is not compressed and that the
executable file exists on the hard drive. Then, it executes
Solitaire. (Play the game here!)
When you are finished playing Solitaire, close the application
by double-clicking on its close box. Solitaire will be closed
and a status window will pop up on your screen, and show you
the progress as it compresses the files SOL.EXE, SOL.HLP, and
SOL.INI into 1 file called SOL.ZIP. When it is done compressing
the program, the three program files will be deleted, and the
file SOL.ZIP will be left behind in the C:\SOL directory. You
have just finished compressing your first program with ZIP'R
Pro!
8. The next time you want to run Solitaire, simply execute
ZIP'R Pro, and click on the "SOL" icon again. This time, ZIP'R
Pro will display the status window and decompress the program.
When the decompression process is finished, Solitaire will be
executed. Just as illustrated above, when you exit Solitaire,
ZIP'R Pro will recompress it.
Editing Files
ZPW Filename
The entry typed in this field will be the name of the .ZPW file
used to contain the program preferences entered on this screen.
(This file can be referenced on the ZIP'R Pro command line to
execute this program.) This filename should reflect the name
of the program being executed, and must be contained in the
ZIP'R Pro sub-directory (usually C:\ZPROWIN).
Executable Filename
This field should contain the full path and filename of the
file to be executed. You must add the correct extension of the
file you wish to execute (.BAT, .COM, or .EXE). If you specify
an incorrect extension, ZIP'R Pro will not be able to find the
correct file. If you are not sure what the file is called, use
the Browse button to search for it. When you find the right
file, highlight it from the Browse dialog and click the OK
button. The filename will be placed in this field.
Parameters
This field can optionally contain any parameters that should be
passed to the program being executed. Enter all options that
should be passed to the executable program in this field.
Maximum Users
This field should be used to specify the maximum number of
concurrent users (or accesses) that should be allowed for this
program at the same time. For example, if a network program is
only licensed for five users, you will want to enter 5 in this
field. This tells ZIP'R Pro not to allow more than 5 users
into this particular program at the same time. Under normal
Windows operation, you may run the risk of opening multiple
sessions of the same program at the same time. It would be to
your benefit to enter 1 in this field. That way, ZIP'R Pro
will only allow you to execute one copy of this program at a
time. The default for this field is 1. (Special Note: The
unregistered version of ZIP'R Pro only supports a maximum of 5
concurrent users in one program at the same time. In order to
have access for more than 5 users, you must register ZIP'R
Pro.)
Compressed Filename
Enter the full path and filename of the compressed file that
will be created and used by ZIP'R Pro in this field. After you
exit from the chosen program, ZIP'R Pro creates the compressed
file in the location specified in this field, along with the
filename you specify. When ZIP'R Pro creates the compressed
file, it will append a .ZIP extension for files created with
PKZIP or Internal ZIP compression, a .ARJ extension for files
created with ARJ, or a .LZH extension for files created with
LHA.
The compressed file can be created on any drive and in any sub-
directory, including floppy diskettes. Common locations for
the compressed file include the directory where the program is
executed from, a special archive directory on your hard drive,
a floppy diskette (only available with PKZIP), or network
drive. If you attempt to create a compressed file on a floppy
diskette, the compressed file must be located in the root
directory. In this case, the entry in the Compressed Filename
field would look like this: "a:\testfile.zip". The compressed
file cannot be created in a directory on a floppy diskette.
Compression Type
Place a check mark next to the name of the compression program
you want to use to compress the specified program and its sub-
directories. ZIP'R Pro supports ARJ, LHA, PKZIP, Internal ZIP
(built-in compression compatible with PKZIP 2.0), and No
Compression.
The default entry for this field is "Internal ZIP". If you
choose to use ARJ, LHA, or PKZIP, make sure you enter a valid
path for the selected program on the Compression Paths screen
available from the Settings menu.
Update Option
(PKZIP and Internal ZIP Compression Only)
The "Update" option is a ZIP'R Pro feature which can
significantly reduce the time required to recompress a program.
Normally, when ZIP'R Pro decompresses a program, it extracts
all of the program files and sub- directories, and deletes the
old compressed file. During the compression process, ZIP'R Pro
creates a new compressed file, and moves all of the program
files and sub-directories into it. This method makes the most
efficient use of hard disk space, but can require a significant
amount of time to recompress the program, depending on the
number and size of files that need to be compressed.
The "Update" option of ZIP'R Pro can save a tremendous amount
of time in this process. Instead of deleting the old
compressed file when the program files and sub-directories are
extracted, ZIP'R Pro leaves it in its original location. When
the compression process starts, ZIP'R Pro updates any files
and/or sub-directories that have been added or changed, and
deletes any files and/or sub-directories that have been deleted
since the program was extracted. In essence, if no files or
sub-directories were added, changed, or deleted since the
program was decompressed, ZIP'R Pro does not need to update any
files. The old compressed file is left in the directory while
ZIP'R Pro deletes the program's files and sub-directories.
Placing a check mark in this box instructs ZIP'R Pro to use the
"Update" option when compressing this program. (Note: The
"Update" option is only available for PKZIP and Internal ZIP
Compression.)
The amount of time that can be saved when using the "Update"
option varies between programs. I encourage you to try this
option on a few of your own programs. Here are a few hints
that I've discovered from experimenting with this option.
1. The greatest difference in speed will be noticed on
programs that have large files and/or files that have not
changed. It takes a very long time to compress large files
using the normal compression method. With the update method,
if PKZIP detects that these large files are identical to the
ones already maintained in the compressed file, all it needs to
do is delete these files out of the directory, and the
recompression process is complete!
2. You may notice that any lower-level sub-directories within
the program are always updated when the update option is
enabled. Since directories are deleted when a program is
compressed, PKZIP must create these directories before
decompressing the program. When PKZIP attempts to update the
compressed file, it detects that the directories have
"changed", and therefore, is forced to update them in the
compressed file.
3. This option is useful to speed up the recompression process
on most programs, but it may actually increase the time of
compression on others. The programs that may not compress as
quickly with the update method are ones that have large numbers
of small files and/or ones that have many files added, changed,
or deleted during each session. If you're not sure, use a
watch and time each method to see which way would save the most
time.
Query Option
The "Query" option is a ZIP'R Pro feature that allows users to
choose, after the program is exited, whether or not it should
be compressed.
If this box is checked, ZIP'R Pro will query (ask) the user
whether or not the program should be compressed each time the
selected program is exited. This allows the user to have more
control over the compression process, instead of having to
decide in advance whether a program should be compressed.
Test Integrity
When Test Integrity is checked, ZIP'R Pro will tell the
compression program being used to perform an integrity check on
the archived files.
Application Type
Select whether the program to be executed is a Windows
Application or a DOS Application. ZIP'R Pro For Windows can
execute either type of program from the Windows environment.
Advanced Options
Compress / Decompress Program Only (Do Not Execute)
This advanced feature of ZIP'R Pro allows you to specify
whether or not ZIP'R Pro should attempt to execute the
program file once the program has been decompressed. If this
box is checked, ZIP'R Pro will only decompress the program if
it is in compressed format, and only compress the program if
it is in non-compressed format. This option is potentially
dangerous to the novice user. Caution is advised.
Check For Child Processes Before Compressing
When this check box is selected, ZIP'R Pro checks to make
sure that the application ZIP'R Pro launched and any
secondary applications launched by the main application are
completely closed down before attempting to recompress the
main program.
As an example, one of our users reported a problem with
Microsoft PowerPoint v4.0 not working properly with ZIP'R
Pro. Apparently, PowerPoint hands control off to a separate
file and terminates the main POWERPNT.EXE file. Once ZIP'R
Pro detected that the main EXE file was no longer in use, it
tried to recompress the entire program, even though a sub-
program was actually running. As another example, we found
that attempting to print a long document from Ami Pro 3.0
causes a similar dilemma. When Ami Pro terminates, Ami Print
(AMIPRINT.EXE) continues to remain on the desktop until all
of the data has been sent to the printer. If Ami Pro is
closed while the printing process is still running, ZIP'R Pro
would again detect that the main application had closed, and
would try to recompress it without waiting for AMIPRINT.EXE
to finish.
This "Child Process Checking" feature (which is enabled by
default) detects when a program launches a "child"
application. For example, ZIP'R Pro is able to detect when
Ami Pro launches Ami Print. Before starting the compression
process, ZIP'R Pro makes sure that BOTH Ami Pro and Ami Print
have been closed.
Use Alternate Directory as Program Parent Directory
When this box is checked, the Program Parent Directory field
is enabled for entering the parent directory for the program
being compressed.
Program Parent Directory
Advanced users will want to use this optional field for
programs with unique requirements. While most programs
locate their primary executable file in the parent program
directory, some programs locate their primary executable file
in a lower-level sub-directory. A good example of this
problem is found with Borland Pascal 7.0.
Borland Pascal uses a master directory called C:\BP.
Underneath this directory are several more lower-level sub-
directories. Instead of placing the executable file BP.EXE
in the C:\BP sub-directory, as most programs would do,
Borland Pascal places this executable file in the C:\BP\BIN
(one of the lower-level sub-directories mentioned above).
In order to compensate for situations like this, ZIP'R Pro
allows users to specify a parent directory for the program.
In the case of Borland Pascal, the Executable File field
given on the front screen would contain "C:\BP\BIN\BP.EXE".
To compress all files and directories from the main
subdirectory (C:\BP and below), the Program Parent Directory
field would contain "C:\BP".
Use Alternate Directory To Launch Executable Program
When this box is checked, the Launch Directory field is
enabled for entering the directory where the program will be
launched, or executed, from.
Launch Directory
This field allows users to optionally enter the directory
where the selected program will be executed from, if it is a
directory other than the one where the program resides. For
example, the program Microsoft Works (C:\WORKS\WORKS.EXE)
could be executed from a directory such as C:\DOCS. This
would allow Microsoft Works to edit files in the C:\DOCS sub-
directory without the need to change to that directory from
within the program.
Browse
Selecting the "Browse" button will display a file browsing screen
to allow you to search for the executable file for the selected
program. Once a file is selected from this screen, the drive,
directory, and name of the executable file will be automatically
pasted into the "Executable File" field.
Floppy Options
This screen allows users to select options to be invoked when
creating a compressed file on a floppy diskette.
Important Note: Options for floppy diskette compression will
only work when PKZIP / PKUNZIP is used as the compression
program. Also note that the Update option can NOT be used when
compression is occurring to floppy diskettes.
One of the following options can be selected as the default
when creating a compressed file on a floppy diskette.
No Action (Do Not Erase Files and Directories)
Erase All Files and Sub-Directories
Format Destination Diskette (Quick Format)
Format Destination Diskette (Full Format)
Format Low-Density Disk in High-Density Drive (Quick Format)
Format Low-Density Disk in High-Density Drive (Full Format)
For an explanation of these options, see the Backup Guide
supplied with PKZIP 2.0.
Use DOS Verify
If you want DOS Verify to be turned on when compressing files
to a floppy diskette, place a check mark in the "Use DOS
Verify" check box. This adds an extra level of security to
make sure that files are created error-free.
Compression Options
PKZIP Compression Options
These PKZIP / PKUNZIP options may be used to choose less
compression in exchange for more speed, or more compression
in exchange for less speed.
PKZIP 2.04 Compression Options
e0 No Compression / Store (PKZIP 2.0 Only)
es Super-Fast Compression (PKZIP 1.1 or 2.0)
ef Fast Compression (PKZIP 2.0 Only)
en Normal Compression (Default) (PKZIP 2.0 Only)
ex Maximum Compression (PKZIP 1.1 or 2.0)
In addition to these options, additional options are
available with PKZIP 2.04g to solve specific hardware and
software compatibility problems. These options are as
follows:
Disable 32-Bit Instruction Usage
Disable DPMI Support
Use Slow MemCopy
Disable EMS Usage
Disable XMS/UMB Usage
Disable Network Detection
Each of these parameters is explained in the troubleshooting
section of the PKZIP documentation. To use any of these
options, place a check mark beside the corresponding entry on
the Compression Options screen.
ARJ Compression Options
The following compression options are available for people
using ARJ.EXE to compress / decompress programs. The default
ARJ compression setting is to use the -m1 switch.
-m0 switch
-m1 switch
-m2 switch
-m3 switch
-m4 switch
-m1 -jm switch
-m2 -jm switch
-m1 -jm1 switch
-m2 -jm1 switch
Test Temporary ARJ Archive
In addition to these options, ARJ allows users to test the
temporary archive that is created when compressing files.
To do this, place a check mark in the "Test Temporary
Archive" check box.
Internal ZIP Compression Options
The following compression options are available when using
Internal ZIP compression:
Compression Method
Use Best Method (default)
Deflate
Implode
Shrink
Store
When using Internal ZIP, you can specify if files should be
compressed using the Deflate, Implode, Shrink, or Store
methods, or you can let ZIP'R Pro use the Best method,
depending on each file. The best compression ratios can be
achieved using the Deflate method, while the least
effective is Store, which simply stores the program file
inside the .ZIP file without compressing it.
Compression Method Options
Deflate Level
When the deflate compression method is being used by the
Internal ZIP compression routines, a deflate level can be
specified to improve the overall compression. The range
of values is from 1 to 9, with 1 being the least
compression, and 9 being the most. The higher this value
is set, the more time will be required to compress the
program. The default value for this field is 5.
Implode Match Length & Implode Repetitions
The implode match length and repetitions settings can be
adjusted to improve compression or speed on files that
are imploded. The match length must be in the range of 4
to 288, and the repetitions much be in the range of 4 to
960. The default value for both fields is 4. The higher
the numbers, the greater the compression will be on
imploded files.
Special Options
Use Selective Extraction
(PKUNZIP Only)
When this box is checked, Selective Extraction is turned on,
and only the files listed in the Selective Extraction File
List will be extracted from the .ZIP file when this program
is decompressed. The original .ZIP file is preserved
(similar to the process used when Update Option is enabled).
After the program is exited, the original .ZIP file is
updated with any changes that were made during the current
session. When Selective Extraction is enabled, Query Option
is ignored, and the Update Option is always used. All
multiple-user access features are disabled when using
Selective Extraction. Only one user is allowed into a
program at a time when Selective Extraction is enabled.
Selective Extraction File List
This box contains a list of the files that should be
extracted from the .ZIP archive when the program is
decompressed. Rather than extracting an entire archive, you
can choose to decompress only the files that are needed for
program execution. This can dramatically speed up the
compression and decompression process. For example, to run
the Norton Utilities SFORMAT.EXE, the only files needed are
SFORMAT.EXE and NORTON.INI. By entering these two files,
PKUNZIP will only extract the two files specified before
executing SFORMAT.EXE.
When entering filenames into this file list, wild cards may
be used, such as *.EXE, *.DOC, ???.CFG, etc. If a filename
is entered that does not exist in the .ZIP file, PKUNZIP.EXE
will not attempt to extract it, and it will not issue an
error message.
Be very careful when using this option! If you forget to
extract a file necessary for proper program execution, your
program could terminate unexpectedly or issue error messages.
Use Selective Exclusion
(PKUNZIP Only)
When this box is checked, Selective Exclusion is turned on,
and all files listed in the Selective Exclusion File List
will be excluded from the extraction process when the .ZIP
file is decompressed. When Selective Exclusion is enabled,
Query Option is ignored, and the Update Option is always
used. All multiple-user access features are disabled when
using Selective Exclusion. Only one user is allowed into a
program at a time when Selective Exclusion is enabled.
Selective Exclusion File List
This box contains a list of the files that should be excluded
from the extraction process when the .ZIP archive is
decompressed. Rather than extracting an entire archive, you
can choose to exclude certain files that are not needed for
program execution or operation. This can dramatically speed
up the compression and decompression process. For example,
most programs do not require *.DOC files to be present in
order to run successfully. By entering "*.DOC" into the
Selective Exclusion File List, PKUNZIP will not extract these
files, saving time during the compression and decompression
processes, and disk space while the program is running.
When entering filenames into this file list, wild cards may
be used, such as *.EXE, *.DOC, ???.CFG, etc.
Be very careful when using this option! Excluding a file
that is necessary for proper program execution could cause
your program to terminate unexpectedly or issue error
messages. Also remember that if Selective Extraction AND
Selective Exclusion are both enabled, Selective Exclusion
files take precedence. That means that if PROGRAM.EXE is
listed in both file lists, it will always be excluded.
Use IN Commands
When this box is checked, IN Commands are enabled, and any
DOS commands listed in the IN Commands memo field will be
executed prior to executing the selected program.
IN Commands
IN Commands are DOS commands that are executed prior to
running the selected program. An example of this would be to
swap a printer port prior to executing the program. Another
example would be to flush and disable write caching before
running a disk utility program.
To use this feature, enter any necessary DOS commands that
should be executed prior to going "IN" to the program in the
corresponding memo field.
Important! Do NOT attempt to invoke or remove TSR (Terminate
and Stay- Resident) programs from memory with IN or OUT DOS
commands. This is virtually guaranteed to cause conflicts
with ZIP'R Pro. If you need to invoke a TSR before running a
program, or remove one after exiting a program, see the
section on TSR Pre-Program and TSR Post-Program Commands.
Use OUT Commands
When this box is checked, OUT Commands are enabled, and any
DOS commands listed in the OUT Commands memo field will be
executed after the selected program has been exited or
terminated.
OUT Commands
OUT Commands are DOS commands that are executed after exiting
the selected program. An example of this would be to swap a
printer port back to its original state after exiting from
the program. Another example would be to re-enable write
caching, if it had been previously disabled using the IN
Commands, after exiting from a disk utility program.
To use this feature, enter any necessary DOS commands that
should be executed after going "OUT" of the program in the
corresponding memo field.
Important! Do NOT attempt to invoke or remove TSR (Terminate
and Stay- Resident) programs from memory with IN or OUT DOS
commands. This is virtually guaranteed to cause conflicts
with ZIP'R Pro. If you need to invoke a TSR before running a
program, or remove one after exiting a program, see the
section on TSR Pre-Program and TSR Post-Program Commands.
Use TSR Pre-Program Commands
When this box is checked, TSR Pre-Program Commands are
enabled, and any DOS commands listed in the TSR Pre-Program
Commands memo field will be executed prior to executing the
selected DOS program.
TSR Pre-Program Commands
Just like IN Commands, TSR Pre-Program Commands are DOS
commands that executed prior to executing the selected DOS
program. The main difference is that TSR Pre-Program
Commands invoke one or more TSR (Terminate-and-Stay-Resident)
programs. TSR's can be a bit tricky to handle due to the
fact that ZIP'R Professional cannot tell what memory has been
used by any TSR's that load later. But ZIP'R Professional
makes TSR's easier to manage by creating a "TSR Container
File". This file is simply a temporary batch file that
contains commands that surround the command line used to
execute the program with the TSR (Pre) and TSR (Post)
commands. When the program is executed, this batch file is
executed instead of the program, allowing TSR's to load and
unload while ZIP'R Professional is dormant. No user
intervention is required. ZIP'R Professional automatically
creates, and then deletes this temporary batch file. TSR's
that can be loaded and unloaded via command line parameters
can usually be invoked successfully with this method. The key
point to remember is to unload TSR's in the REVERSE order
that they were loaded. The following example illustrates
this concept more clearly.
TSR (Pre) Commands :
TSR1 (Load)
TSR2 (Load)
TSR (Post) Commands:
TSR2 (Unload)
TSR1 (Unload)
TSR2 must be unloaded first, since it was the last TSR
loaded, and is loaded last in memory. Once TSR2 is unloaded,
TSR1 may be safely unloaded, because it is now the last TSR
in memory.
The important point to remember is that if you load a TSR
before executing the program, you MUST unload it after
exiting the program. Otherwise, control will not be returned
to ZIP'R Pro. When this happens, ZIP'R Pro will not perform
the compression process, resulting in several problems. If
the Update option was enabled, the compressed file will still
be in the compressed file directory, and the program files
will still be in the program directory. This could be
dangerous, if you don't know what you're doing. It is
recommended that you delete the compressed file before
attempting to execute the program again. You may also find
some files in the \ZPROWIN sub-directory with a .U00 or .P00
extension. If no one else is accessing the program at the
time, you should delete them. To avoid such problems as
these, either don't load TSR's at all, or make sure that you
unload them using the TSR (Post) Commands.
Use TSR Post-Program Commands
When this box is checked, TSR Post-Program Commands are
enabled, and any DOS commands listed in the TSR Post-Program
Commands memo field will be executed after exiting from, or
terminating, the selected DOS program.
TSR Post-Program Commands
Just like OUT Commands, TSR Post-Program Commands are DOS
commands that executed after exiting from, or terminating,
the selected DOS program. The main difference is that TSR
Post-Program Commands remove one or more TSR (Terminate-and-
Stay-Resident) programs from memory. TSR's can be a bit
tricky to handle due to the fact that ZIP'R Professional
cannot tell what memory has been used by any TSR's that load
later. But ZIP'R Professional makes TSR's easier to manage
by creating a "TSR Container File". This file is simply a
temporary batch file that contains commands that surround the
command line used to execute the program with the TSR (Pre)
and TSR (Post) commands. When the program is executed, this
batch file is executed instead of the program, allowing TSR's
to load and unload while ZIP'R Professional is dormant. No
user intervention is required. ZIP'R Professional
automatically creates, and then deletes this temporary batch
file. TSR's that can be loaded and unloaded via command line
parameters can usually be invoked successfully with this
method. The key point to remember is to unload TSR's in the
REVERSE order that they were loaded. The following example
illustrates this concept more clearly.
TSR (Pre) Commands :
TSR1 (Load)
TSR2 (Load)
TSR (Post) Commands:
TSR2 (Unload)
TSR1 (Unload)
TSR2 must be unloaded first, since it was the last TSR
loaded, and is loaded last in memory. Once TSR2 is unloaded,
TSR1 may be safely unloaded, because it is now the last TSR
in memory.
The important point to remember is that if you load a TSR
before executing the program, you MUST unload it after
exiting the program. Otherwise, control will not be returned
to ZIP'R Pro. When this happens, ZIP'R Pro will not perform
the compression process, resulting in several problems. If
the Update option was enabled, the compressed file will still
be in the compressed file directory, and the program files
will still be in the program directory. This could be
dangerous, if you don't know what you're doing. It is
recommended that you delete the compressed file before
attempting to execute the program again. You may also find
some files in the \ZPROWIN sub-directory with a .U00 or .P00
extension. If no one else is accessing the program at the
time, you should delete them. To avoid such problems as
these, either don't load TSR's at all, or make sure that you
unload them using the TSR (Post) Commands.
TSR2 must be unloaded first, since it was the last TSR
loaded, and is loaded last in memory. Once TSR2 is unloaded,
TSR1 may be safely unloaded, because it is now the last TSR
in memory.
The important point to remember is that if you load a TSR
before executing the program, you MUST unload it after
exiting the program. Otherwise, control will not be returned
to ZIP'R Pro. When this happens, ZIP'R Pro will not perform
the compression process, resulting in several problems. If
the Update option was enabled, the compressed file will still
be in the compressed file directory, and the program files
will still be in the program directory. This could be
dangerous, if you don't know what you're doing. It is
recommended that you delete the compressed file before
attempting to execute the program again. You may also find
some files in the \ZPROWIN sub-directory with a .U00 or .P00
extension. If no one else is accessing the program at the
time, you should delete them. To avoid such problems as
these, either don't load TSR's at all, or make sure that you
unload them using the TSR (Post) Commands.
Using The ZIP'R Pro Desktop
The ZIP'R Pro desktop allows you to create new files, edit
existing files, and run programs, all within a single interface.
To create a new file, select New from the File menu, or click on
the New File speed-button on the toolbar.
To edit an existing file, select Open from the File menu, or
position your mouse over a program button, click the right mouse
button to display the popup menu, and select Settings from the
popup menu. Either of these methods will let you edit an
existing file. To run a program, click on the program button
associated with the program you want to run. ZIP'R Pro will
decompress the program (if necessary), execute it, and recompress
it using the options you specified when you set up the file.
The popup menu can also be used to launch or delete the program
settings file, or to change the icon displayed on the program
button.
Cleanup Files
The Cleanup Files option is used to erase left-over signal
files that are created by ZIP'R Pro to track concurrent access
to a compressed file on networks and under multitaskers. These
signal files help ensure that a user cannot attempt to
decompress or compress a particular program while another user
or process is accessing it. Normally, these files are deleted
when the program is exited. However, if the computer hangs, or
if the compression or decompression processes are stopped
abnormally, these files may not be deleted, and will prevent
ZIP'R Pro from allowing access to a particular program. This
option searches the ZIP'R Pro directory and deletes any left-
over signal files. Before using this option, make sure that
ZIP'R Pro is not being used on any active programs. For
further information on the Cleanup Files option, see the
Questions and Answers section at the end of the documentation
file.
Cleanup Password
The Cleanup Password menu option can be used to change the
password required to access the Cleanup Files option described
above. Normally, a cleanup password is not needed to access the
Cleanup Files option, but network administrators may want users
to enter a password before using the Cleanup option. If a
cleanup password already exists when this option is selected, you
will be required to enter the existing password to ensure that
you have sufficient security to perform this operation. After
entering this existing password, type the new password and save
the changes.
Compression Paths
ARJ Directory
Enter the directory where ARJ.EXE is located, using the
format "C:\ARJ\". Do not add the actual filename or
extension. When you enter a directory name in this field,
ZIP'R Pro will make sure that the directory exists. If an
invalid directory is entered, an error message will be
displayed.
LHA Directory
Enter the directory where LHA.EXE is located, using the
format "C:\LHA\". Do not add the actual filename or
extension. When you enter a directory name in this field,
ZIP'R Pro will make sure that the directory exists. If an
invalid directory is entered, an error message will be
displayed.
PKZIP Directory
Enter the directory where the files PKZIP.EXE and PKUNZIP.EXE
are located, using the format "C:\PKZIP\". Do not add the
actual filename or extension. (Both of these files must be
located in the same sub-directory.) When you enter a
directory name in this field, ZIP'R Pro will make sure that
the directory exists. If an invalid directory is entered, an
error message will be displayed.
Defaults
Manually Create Sub-Directories Under OS/2
Users who are running ZIP'R Pro under OS/2 in combination
with Novell's NetWare Requester will want to enable this
option. Problems have been reported when using PKUNZIP in a
global network session, where PKUNZIP cannot create the sub-
directories properly during the decompression process. (This
problem has been reported to PKWare.) When this option is
enabled, ZIP'R Pro will manually created the needed sub-
directories before instructing PKUNZIP to decompress the
compressed file.
Sorted Extraction
(PKUNZIP Only)
When Sorted Extraction is set to "Yes", ZIP'R Pro will
extract files from the .ZIP archive in alphabetical order.
This feature is especially useful on network drives that
generally prevent utilities of this nature from working. If
this option is set to "No", files are extracted in the order
in which they appear in the file.
Sub-Directory Deletion
(PKZIP 2.04g Only)
Disabling sub-directory deletion will instruct PKZIP 2.04g
not to delete any of the program's sub-directories (located
under the parent directory) when compressing a program. The
default is On, which means that PKZIP will automatically
delete the lower level sub-directories once the compression
process is complete.
Use Atomic Lock Files
When the network/multitasker features of ZIP'R Pro are being
used, users can specify whether or not atomic lock files are
used. For a discussion on atomic lock files, see the
"Networks / Multitaskers" section of this documentation.
Show Hints
This check box allows you to specify whether or not the popup
hints are displayed when the mouse cursor is moved over the
top of a control on the screen. This setting affects whether
or not hints are displayed on the editing screens. It does
not affect hints on the toolbar.
Confirm Before Launching Program
This option controls whether or not ZIP'R Pro displays a
confirmation message when you press a program button to
launch the program. The confirmation message gives you the
opportunity to verify that you want to run the program.
Launch Compression As
This setting allows you to specify how program compression
will occur. If you select Icon, compression will occur in a
minimized window, allowing you to continue your normal work
without monitoring the compression process. Otherwise, if
you select Window or Full Screen, ZIP'R Pro will display the
compression process in a window on your desktop. If you are
using an external compressor (PKZIP, ARJ, or LHA), ZIP'R Pro
will use the settings defined in the corresponding PIF file.
The files PKZIP.PIF, PKUNZIP.PIF, ARJ.PIF, and LHA.PIF were
transferred to your \WINDOWS directory during the
installation process.
Launch Decompression As
This setting allows you to specify how program decompression
will occur. If you select Icon, decompression will occur in
a minimized window, allowing you to continue your normal work
without monitoring the decompression process. Otherwise, if
you select Window or Full Screen, ZIP'R Pro will display the
decompression process in a window on your desktop. If you
are using an external decompressor (PKUNZIP, ARJ, or LHA),
ZIP'R Pro will use the settings defined in the corresponding
PIF file. The files PKZIP.PIF, PKUNZIP.PIF, ARJ.PIF, and
LHA.PIF were transferred to your \WINDOWS directory during
the installation process.
Register ZIP'R Pro
Registration Name
If you are a registered user of ZIP'R Pro, enter your
registration name in the Registration Name field. The
Registration Name cannot be longer than 36 characters. If you
are not a registered user, please read the "Registration Terms"
section below.
Registration Number
If you are a registered user of ZIP'R Pro, enter your
registration number in the Registration Number field. If you
are not a registered user, please read the "Registration Terms"
section below.
Network Users
When you register ZIP'R Pro for a network license, you will
receive a registration code that supports a specific number of
network users. In order for your registration code to work
properly, you must enter the exact number of stations your
network license is registered for. If you are not using ZIP'R
Pro on a network, simply enter 0.
Registration Terms
ZIP'R Pro For Windows is shareware. You may try ZIP'R Pro for
a period of two weeks. If you continue using ZIP'R Pro after
the initial two week period, you must register it. Standard
registration is only $49.95 (+ $5.00 S&H). Registered users
will receive the newest version of ZIP'R Pro on diskette, along
with a printed manual, a registration number, and bonus
diskettes. To register, call (218) 924-2050. We accept Visa,
MasterCard, American Express, and Discover, as well as personal
checks and money orders. If you wish to register by mail,
print out the order form entitled REGISTER.DOC, and send it to:
Stevenson Technical Services, Inc.
108 Second Avenue West
Bertha MN 56437-0297 U.S.A.
Integrating ZIP'R Pro Into Windows
While ZIP'R Pro allows you to access all of your programs and
execute them directly from the desktop interface, you may want to
launch them from a standard Program Manager icon. To accomplish
this, follow the directions given below.
1. Open the Program Manager group where you want to place the
program's icon.
2. Select New from Program Manager's File menu. When prompted
for the type of New Program Object to add, select a Program Item,
and click on OK.
3. Enter the Program Item Properties as shown below,
substituting the program you are using.
Program Item Properties:
Description: Microsoft Word
Command Line: ZPROWIN WINWORD
Working Directory: C:\ZPROWIN
In this example, the name of the ZPW file would be WINWORD.ZPW.
When "WINWORD" is passed to ZIP'R Pro on the command line, ZIP'R
Pro bypasses the desktop interface and immediately executes the
program referenced in the ZPW file.
If you are modifying the properties of an existing program, you
can simply change the Program Item Properties, as shown in the
example below.
Program Item Properties:
OLD Description: AmiPro
Command Line: AMIPRO.EXE
Working Directory: C:\AMIPRO
NEW Description: AmiPro
Command Line: ZPROWIN AMIPRO
Working Directory: C:\ZPROWIN
4. To change this program's icon, use the "Change Icon" button
accessible within the Program Item Properties dialog box.
5. When you are finished making changes, click on the OK button
to save your settings. To execute this program, simply double-
click on it as usual.
Modifying Pif Files
When ZIP'R Pro compresses or decompresses a program using ARJ,
LHA, or PKZIP/PKUNZIP, it uses the settings in the corresponding
PIF files, called ARJ.PIF, LHA.PIF, PKZIP.PIF, and PKUNZIP.PIF,
respectively. These files were copied to your Windows directory
during the installation process.
Directory Requirements
Important: Do NOT add any text to the "Start-up Directory"
field in any of the PIF files named above!
The "Start-up Directory" field MUST be blank for each
compressor / decompressor to work properly. ZIP'R Pro
automatically changes to the proper directory before
compressing or decompressing the selected program. If a
directory is specified in this field, Windows changes to that
directory when launching the compression program, regardless of
the instructions it received from ZIP'R Pro.
Full Screen, Windowed, and Icon Displays
When ZIP'R Pro executes a compression or decompression program,
it can display the program Full Screen, Windowed, or Minimized
(as an icon). To execute it as an icon, change the "Launch
Compression As" and "Launch Decompression As" settings on the
Defaults screen (accessible from the Settings menu) to "Icon".
If you want to display the compressor / decompressor as a Full
Screen application, which allows you to monitor the compression
and/or decompression processes more closely, change the
"Display Usage" option in the corresponding PIF file to "Full
Screen", and change the "Launch Compress As" value to either
Window or Full Screen. The default for this field is
"Windowed", which displays the compression and decompression
processes in a window on the desktop.
How Effective Is ZIP'R Pro?
ZIP'R Pro can save a typical computer user a substantial amount
of hard drive space. Most users have several programs on their
hard drives that are seldom used, but take up a tremendous amount
of hard disk real-estate. Rather than deleting these programs
completely, ZIP'R Pro allows these programs to be accessed when
needed, storing them in a compressed form when they are not in
use. The amount of hard drive space saved depends totally on the
effectiveness of the compression program used by ZIP'R Pro. As
compression programs improve, so will the ratios that ZIP'R Pro
is able to achieve.
The compression programs used by ZIP'R Pro do not provide "on-the-
fly" data compression. As a result, there is a time delay during
the compression and decompression processes. However, ZIP'R Pro
does not require 50K of valuable memory, either. In addition,
ZIP'R Pro does not degrade the performance of the computer system
as the "on-the-fly" data compression programs do.
A performance comparison of the three compression programs
currently supported by ZIP'R Pro is shown in the following table.
The test directory consisted of 33 files, plus a sub-directory
which contained an additional 17 files.
Test Directory Size Using Microsoft MS-DOS 5.0
Compression Type Bytes Compression Overall
Compression
Original Baseline 2,980,853 - -
MS-DOS 2,980,853 0% 0%
New Baseline 2,980,853 - 0%
Additional compression obtained using ZIP'R Pro:
Compression Bytes Compression Overall
Compression
No Compression 2,980,853 0% 0%
PKZIP 1.1 (ZIP) 1,536,688 48% 48%
PKZIP 2.0 (ZIP) 1,401,026 53% 53%
LHA Compression 1,428,393 52% 52%
ARJ Compression 1,406,625 53% 53%
Test Directory Size Using DR DOS 6.0 (with SuperStor)
Compression Bytes Compression Overall
Compression
Original Baseline 2,980,853 - -
DR DOS w/SuperStor 1,992,704 33% 33%
New Baseline 1,992,704 - 33%
Additional compression obtained using ZIP'R Pro:
Compression Type Bytes Compression Overall
Compression
No Compression 1,992,704 0% 33%
PKZIP 1.1 (ZIP) 1,551,360 22% 48%
PKZIP 2.0 (ZIP) 1,408,512 29% 53%
LHA Compression 1,444,864 27% 52%
ARJ Compression 1,423,872 29% 52%
You can see by this table that SuperStor was only achieving an
overall compression ratio of 33%. Using ZIP'R Pro with PKZIP 2.0
allowed an extra 20% savings on hard drive space!
Compressing To Floppy Disks
There are several items to consider carefully before compressing
any program(s) to a floppy diskette.
PKZIP Only
Compression to floppy diskettes is only available when
PKZIP/PKUNZIP is used as the compression program. Compressing
programs to a floppy diskette using ARJ, LHA, or Internal ZIP
is not supported at this time.
Store ZIP Files In The Root Directory
Compressed files must be stored in the root directory of the
floppy diskette. Creating files in compressed form in a sub-
directory on a floppy drive is NOT supported.
Beware Of Bad Floppies
Keep in mind that floppy disks can fail frequently. We
recommend that you do not store any mission-critical programs
on floppy disks. Use them only for non-essential programs.
Danger Areas
When compressing a file to a floppy diskette, the default
"Floppy Option" is to "Erase All Files and Sub-Directories".
When this option is turned on, you cannot use one disk to store
multiple compressed programs. If you attempt to do this, PKZIP
will erase any existing files on the disk before creating the
new file, causing you to lose any other compressed files you
stored on that same disk. If this is confusing to you, simply
follow this rule: Only compress one program on a floppy disk
(or set of disks, if your compressed file consumes more than 1
disk).
Version 2.15 of ZIP'R Pro added another option to the "Floppy
Options" screen. This option, called "No Action (Do Not Erase
Files and Directories)", does not allow PKZIP to erase the
contents of a disk before creating the new compressed file.
This option may be desired in cases where you want to store
several compressed programs on the same diskette (as long as
all of the programs can fit on one disk). However, this
feature can also be dangerous if you don't fully understand
what takes place. Consider the following example:
Program 1 is very large, and requires a 2-disk set in order for
PKZIP to successfully create the compressed file. As PKZIP
creates the compressed file, it places a volume label on the
first disk with the text "PKBACK# 001" and a volume label on
the second disk with the text "PKBACK# 002". Program 2 is then
compressed onto the end of disk 2 in the previous set.
However, since this is a new compressed file, PKZIP re-labels
the volume on the disk as "PKBACK# 001". When you attempt to
decompress Program 1 back onto your hard drive for execution,
PKZIP will not be able to recognize the second disk in the set,
because its volume label has been changed!
As you can see, this could cause some very sticky problems. If
you decide to use the "No Action" feature, we recommend that
you only place programs on the same disk if they all use the
same volume label. In essence, if you have three compressed
files that would all fit on one disk, you should be able to use
this feature without a problem.
Cautions When Using ZIP'R Pro
Do NOT attempt to use ZIP'R Pro to compress any directories
containing files that are referenced in your CONFIG.SYS or
AUTOEXEC.BAT. If you wish to compress the DOS sub-directory,
copy any such files to the root directory of the hard drive, and
update the paths in your CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT. Also be
cautious when compressing directories that contain memory
managers, caches, and utilities that may be needed to boot your
machine. These directories may be compressed, but any files
needed for booting the machine must be copied to the root
directory, and the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT paths updated
accordingly.
Keep in mind that in order to properly decompress a program,
there must be enough free space on the hard drive to contain all
the extracted files in addition to the original compressed file.
After the files have been successfully extracted, the compressed
file is deleted. Likewise, when compressing a program,
sufficient space must be available for the original program files
and the newly created compressed file. After the compressed file
has been successfully created, the original program files are
deleted. ZIP'R Pro will issue a warning message if it determines
that there is not enough free hard drive space, but if you are
performing other operations within Windows that consume disk
space, you must run out of available space in the middle of the
decompression process. Be very cautious when you are low on hard
drive space!
When upgrading to PKZIP 2.0, test the reliability of the
compression and decompression processes before trusting it with
your data! PKZIP 2.0 has some documented problems with fast
machines (486/25 and up) using external CPU memory caches. Read
the troubleshooting section of the PKZIP 2.0 documentation for
more information.
ZIP'R Pro Troubleshooting Hints
Question:
I can't get ZIP'R Pro to compress one or more of my programs.
On one program, I am receiving an error message that ZIP'R Pro
is currently being used by the maximum number of users allowed.
Another program that I try to run causes ZIP'R Pro to issue an
error message stating that another user is compressing or
decompressing this program. On yet another program, ZIP'R Pro
just exits without issuing an error message or trying to
compress the program. What is the problem?
Answer:
If ZIP'R Pro won't compress the program's files and sub-
directories after it is exited, or if you receive an error
message that ZIP'R Pro is currently being used by the maximum
number of users allowed, check the .ZPW file. If the fields
are all correct, check the \ZPROWIN sub-directory for files
with any of the following extensions:
.U00 through .UFF
.P00 through .PFF
.N00 through .NFF
.CSF
.DSF
.SXF
.SXT
.ZSF
These are token (signal) files created by ZIP'R Pro to track
concurrent access to a compressed file on networks and under
multitaskers. This ensures that a user cannot attempt to
decompress or compress a particular program while another user
or process is accessing it. Normally, these files are deleted
when the program is exited. However, if the computer hangs, or
if the compression or decompression processes are stopped
abnormally, these files will not be deleted, and will prevent
ZIP'R Pro from compressing the program's files and sub-
directories. The filename (8-character prefix) of these files
should match the name of the compressed file specified in the
.ZPW file. ZIP'R Pro provides a quick and easy solution to the
problem of leftover signal files. Make sure that ZIP'R Pro is
not being used on any active programs, execute ZIP'R Pro, and
run the Cleanup Files option from the ZIP'R Pro Settings menu.
The Cleanup Files option is used to erase all signal files in
the ZIP'R Pro sub-directory. This option should be used with
care to ensure that no other processes are using ZIP'R
Professional. (Erasing signal files that are in use by other
programs could cause unpredictable results.) After ZIP'R Pro
has finished erasing any signal files, it will display a list
of all files that were found and erased.
The most common reason that any of these types of files are
left behind is due to a computer hang. When the computer
hangs, control is not returned to ZIP'R Pro, so ZIP'R Pro
cannot delete them as part of the cleanup process. They can
also be left behind due to a TSR not being unloaded in the TSR
(Post) Command process if it was loaded in the TSR (Pre)
Command process. As mentioned earlier, this can also cause
control to not be returned to ZIP'R Pro, in which case, these
files would not be deleted.
Question:
Can ZIP'R Pro leave a program uncompressed after it has been
previously compressed with ZIP'R Pro?
Answer:
Yes! Simply enable the "Query" option in the program's .ZPW
file. This option can be accessed by enabling the Internediate
or Advanced level interface. Before ZIP'R Pro attempts to
recompress the program, it will ask you if you want to compress
it. Answer "No" to the prompt, and the program will remain
uncompressed. Another option is to use the Compress /
Decompress Only option, located on the Advanced ZIF Options
screen. This will quickly compress or decompress your program
(based on its current state), and exit without attempting to
execute or recompress the program.
Question:
I can't seem to get some of my programs to run properly. I
receive various error messages. What am I doing wrong?
Answer:
The most common problem among ZIP'R Pro users is incorrect
setup of the .ZPW file being used. The following list gives
some hints and tips for filling in each field when editing a
.ZPW file. (Note: Some of these fields may only be visible
when using the Intermediate or Advanced level interface. If
you are using the Beginner level interface, ignore the fields
that do not appear on your screen.)
ZIP'R Pro Filename
Make sure that this field contains only characters that can
be used as part of a filename. To find out which characters
may or may not be used as part of a DOS filename, see your
DOS reference manual.
Executable File
You must place the correct extension of the program to be
executed on the filename. If ZIP'R Pro issues an error
message that it contain find the program, make sure you have
checked for the proper extension in this field. (The
extension must be .EXE, .BAT, or .COM. You cannot use a .PIF
extension!)
Parameters
Enter any parameters exactly as you would enter them after
the program name, if you were using a DOS command line. If
you are passing multiple parameters, separate each one with a
space.
Compressed Filename
Do not place an extension for the compressed file in this
field. ZIP'R Pro automatically adds the correct extension at
run time. If the compression program used is Internal ZIP or
PKZIP, the extension will be .ZIP. If the compression
program in ARJ, the extension will be .ARJ, and likewise, if
the compression program is LHA, the extension will be .LZH.
Compression Type
If you want to decompress a previously compressed program
without recompressing it, use the Query option, and select
"No" when prompted. Do not try to changed the type of
compression if your program is currently in a compressed
state.
Test Integrity
Check this box ONLY if you want the compression program to
perform an integrity check on the archived files once they
have been compressed.
Query Option
Check this field when you want ZIP'R Pro to prompt you before
compressing a program. This allows you to specify "on-the-
fly" whether a program should be compressed.
Update Option
This option is only available for use when ZIP (PKZIP /
PKUNZIP) is selected as the Compression Type. If any other
option is selected, the Update Option field will be grayed
and disabled.
Question:
I am receiving the error message "Unable to run COMMAND /C
...". What is wrong?
Answer:
You are probably running DR DOS, and do not have COMMAND.COM
available on your path. For some reason, DR DOS does not copy
COMMAND.COM into the \DRDOS sub- directory at installation
time, making it unavailable on the path. The solution here is
simply to copy COMMAND.COM from the root directory into the
\DRDOS sub-directory. Another alternative is to add the root
directory to the PATH= statement in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
ZIP'R Pro is able to detect if COMMAND.COM cannot be found, and
issues a warning message.
Question:
I'm trying to use ZIP'R Pro For Windows under OS/2 in
combination with the Novell NetWare Requester. I'm receiving
errors when PKUNZIP.EXE tries to extract files that are in sub-
directories under my main program? What is wrong?
Answer:
When using OS/2 Version 2.1 in combination with the Novell
NetWare Requester, PKUNZIP cannot re-create lower-level sub-
directories when decompressing a program. (This problem only
appears in a global network session.) If you are experiencing
these types of problems, disable sub-directory deletion on the
Advanced Options screen of ZIP'R Pro. This will instruct PKZIP
not to delete sub-directories when it compresses the program.
That way, PKUNZIP will be able to successfully extract all
files in the archive when it decompresses the program.
Another alternative is to enable "Manual Sub-Directory Creation
Under OS/2" which is located on the Advanced Options screen
(accessible from the Settings Menu).
Question:
What networks / multitaskers does ZIP'R Pro recognize?
Answer:
ZIP'R Pro currently recognizes/supports the following operating
systems / environments:
Windows
OS/2
DESQView / DESQview/X
Novell
LANtastic
10Net
Comments From ZIP'R Users
The following list shows samples of some of the comments we have
received on ZIP'R / ZIP'R Pro:
"ZIP'R Pro (is) an archive automator that adds attractive menus,
hotkeys, and help screens. Best of all, you don't need to know a
thing about batch programming to use it."
- Computer Shopper
April 1994
"Works as advertised. Seamless integration.... I think you have a
superb product."
- Toronto, Ontario
"ZIP'R is going to save you money, and more important hard disk
storage space. It will save you money AND headaches by not
having to purchase a disk compression program such as Stacker or
SuperStor.... Support shareware and give this program a try. I
know you will use it, NO ONE ever has enough hard disk space."
- Throughput (The S.W.I.P.C.C. Inc. Journal)
March 1993
"Really neat program."
- Dresden, Tennessee
"There is an excellent interface for setting up each program
within ZIP'R... Once a program has been set up, it's operation
within ZIP'R is transparent to the user. One advantage to those
who can't afford the 40 to 50 K of RAM required by other
compression programs is that ZIP'R only requires 2.5K RAM when it
has finished loading your program. When you have become familiar
with the program you will wonder how you ever managed without
it."
- read.me (The Personal Computer Club of Toronto)
October 1993
"...thanks for a great product."
- Edgewood, New Mexico
"It's (ZIP'R is) a program of professional quality, worth
registering ... It helps me to avoid Double Space..."
- The Netherlands
Products By STSI
Stevenson Technical Services, Inc.
108 Second Avenue West
Bertha MN 56437-0297
Phone / FAX: (218) 924-2050
The STSI BBS: (218) 924-2060
Internet: http://www.stevetech.com
Internet Mail: support@stevetech.com
(Visa, MasterCard, American Express, & Discover Accepted)
· BBS Informant <ASP> Comprehensive BBS List / Search Door!
BBS Informant is a comprehensive BBS door used for adding,
listing, and searching through BBS names and numbers. BBS
Informant stores over 40 fields of data on each BBS! Store up to
3 phone numbers, software & version, sysop, emphasis, rate,
location, number of lines, storage space, CD-ROMS, date of
origin, services offered, summary, and much more! Network
support is included! BBS Informant works on Wildcat, PCBoard,
and any BBS that supports DOOR.SYS.
Registration Fee: $49.95
· BOOT'R <ASP> -DOS Multiple Configuration Manager
BOOT'R allows the management of multiple configurations on a
single machine. BOOT'R can modify the CONFIG.SYS, AUTOEXEC.BAT,
and more. Modify up to 5 files for each configuration. Useful for
changing files such as NET.CFG too! Ideal for creating custom
configurations for memory-hungry games. Easy to use push-button
interface w/mouse support! Online reference tools!
Registration Fee: $34.95
· CompuSlave For Windows <ASP> Master Your Messages!
CompuSlave imports CompuServe forum messages from a capture file
into a database. Search the entire database for key words or
phrases. Create your own stand-alone, customized technical
support resource using the combined knowledge of the CompuServe
forum members. Ideal tool for tech support personnel,
programmers, network administrators, or any user who routinely
searches the CompuServe forum messages for information. Easy to
use Windows interface! Sample import file is included.
Documentation contains helpful hints on how to create a
CompuServe forum message capture file.
Registration Fee: $49.95
· Infodex <ASP> - Multipurpose Database!
Infodex is a versatile database manager used to keep track of
names and addresses, equipment, computer software, books, and
much more! Includes a FREE-FORM layout. Add, delete, or
rearrange fields EASILY! Search for text in any field. Import
and export to a delimited text file. Quickly browse through a
list of records. Easy push button interface! Both protected-
mode and real-mode versions are included to support various
memory requirements.
Registration Fee: $34.95
· QwkSlave <ASP> - QWK Packet Message Database!
QwkSlave imports QWK mail packets, storing each message as a
database record. Add, edit, delete, print, browse, sort, &
search through messages. Cross referencing makes finding an
original message and its response as easy as a mouse-click.
Ideal as a technical support reference tool. Network support is
included. Easy to use push-button interface!
Registration Fee: $49.95
· Replicator For DOS <ASP> - The Diskette Database / Duplicator!
Replicator is a disk image utility designed to create images of
diskettes and catalog them in a database. Use optional
compression to reduce the image size. Recreate disks as needed.
Store up to 10 lines of descriptive text for each disk image in
the database. Database entries can be modified at any time.
Easy push button interface! (286 or higher)
Registration Fee: $49.95
· Replicator For Windows <ASP> - The Diskette Database / Duplicator!
Replicator is a disk image utility designed to create images of
diskettes and catalog them in a database. Optionally compress
image files and scan disks for viruses. Recreate disks as
needed. Store up to 10 lines of descriptive text for each disk
image in the database. Database entries can be modified at any
time. Network support included. Easy to use Windows interface!
Registration Fee: $49.95
· ZIP'R Pro For DOS <ASP> - Compression Utility For DOS!
ZIP'R Pro stores programs in compressed form when they are not
being used. Use ZIP'R Pro to automatically decompress a program,
execute it, and recompress it again. Uses ARJ, LHA, PKZIP, or
built-in compression. Integrate with a menu system, or use ZIP'R
Pro's button menu. Works with networks & multitaskers. Easy to
use push-button interface with mouse support!
Registration Fee: $49.95
· ZIP'R Pro For Windows <ASP> - Compression Utility For Windows!
ZIP'R Pro stores programs in compressed form when they are not
being used. Use ZIP'R Pro to automatically decompress a program,
execute it, and recompress it again. Uses ARJ, LHA, PKZIP, or
built-in compression. Integrate with a Windows icon, or use
ZIP'R Pro's desktop to launch the program of your choice.
Network/Multi-user support is included.
Registration Fee: $49.95
Programs Mentioned
ARJ is copyrighted by Robert K Jung.
AutoMenu is copyrighted by Magee Enterprises.
DESQview is copyrighted by Quarterdeck Office Systems.
DR DOS is copyrighted by Digital Research Inc.
LANtastic is copyrighted by Artisoft, Inc.
LHA is copyrighted by Haruyasu Yoshizaki.
MS-DOS is copyrighted by Microsoft.
Novell is copyrighted by Novell.
OS/2 is copyrighted by IBM.
PKZIP is copyrighted by PKWARE, Inc.
PKUNZIP is copyrighted by PKWARE, Inc.
QEMM is copyrighted by Quarterdeck Office Systems.
QuikMenu is copyrighted by OSCS Software Development, Inc.
Stacker is copyrighted by Stac Electronics, Inc.
SuperStor is copyrighted by AddStor, Inc.
Tame is copyrighted by PowerSoft, Inc. and David G. Thomas.
Windows is copyrighted by Microsoft.
XSpawn is copyrighted by Yaniv Golan.
ZIP'R is copyrighted by Stevenson Technical Services, Inc.