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1990-10-13
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LaserGraf ASSISTANCE
CONTENTS
1. GENERAL DESCRIPTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
2. HOW TO DEFINE A GRID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
3. USING AND SAVING LaserGraf FILES . . . . . . . . . . . 5
4. PROBLEM SOLVING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
5. GLOSSARY (Definitions of Terms) . . . . . . . . . . . 6
6. ORDER AND LEGAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
The LaserGraf program described herein is the full-featured
commercial version. Users of the Evaluation version, LGS.EXE, will
be able to produce neither type of LaserGraf files nor print nor
edit calibrations.
"LaserGraf" copyright 1990 by W. Joseph Richards
Both the LaserGraf copyright and the LaserGraf Trademark
are assigned to New Atlantis Ltd.
All rights are reserved.
Page 1
1. GENERAL DESCRIPTION
LaserGraf is a program which creates rapidly on a LaserJet
printer a very wide variety of gridded papers for scientific,
technical, business, and personal use. These papers include both
logarithmic and linear grids and, for the latter, they may be evenly
divided (fixed) or measured (uniform) grids in centimeters, inches,
or a user-defined measurement system.
LaserGraf is an easy-to-use program which utilizes the graphics
capabilities of the H-P LaserJet printer (other laser printers may
be used if they have LaserJet emulation). It is not possible to
produce accurate results with this program on other types of
printers.
All grids are formed from "rules" and three classes of rules
may be defined: "main", "secondary", and "tertiary". For most
applications these are in decreasing width. A rule may also be
dotted instead of solid. Default values are built into the program:
pressing [Enter] accepts those defaults which are shown between
square brackets, e.g., [4].
A good way to understand this program better is to print a
pre-defined grid. To do this press "F" while the "Beginning Menu"
is displayed, then enter the name of a file with a ".LGF" extension,
[If you don't know a file name enter anything, then press <Enter>
again, the program will show you the available ".LGF" files.] When
you have entered a valid file name the "Summary" screen for it will
be displayed. Pressing any letter key (except "E" or "R") will
cause the calibration menu to appear. If "N" is selected the grid
will be generated. Note the line widths and the structure of the
printed grid. This should help you to create your own, custom grid.
You may create a completely original grid by simply answering
the displayed questions. You may also modify an existing ".LGF"
file if you only plan a few changes. To do this enter the file name
as described above and press "E" when the "Summary" screen is
displayed. You will be led through the whole definition process but
the values of the selected file will be shown in each case in square
brackets. To keep this established value simply press [Enter]. To
change anything enter a new value. When prompted for a file name
enter a new name or the old file will be overwritten.
If you selected an "L" file type, the new grid definition will
be saved as an ".LGF" file. If you (also) selected a "G" file type,
a file will be generated with the same name but with the extension
".GRF"; ".GRF" files will produce the same grid on a LaserJet
printer by simply using the DOS "Print" command. It is not necessary
to use the LaserGraf program to print a ".GRF" file (in fact, you
can't edit or change these files but they may be used, for example,
in DOS batch files.) You may also print a special grid without
saving it at all, simply select "N" for the file type.
Sample ".GRF" and ".LGF" files are included on the LaserGraf
program disk.
2. HOW TO DEFINE A GRID
After answering the beginning menu with a letter key other
than "D" or "F", the program asks for the paper size. The graph
frame size is the same for Quarto (Letter) and A4 sizes but the
margins are different. For the long sizes the ratio of the short to
long edges is 2 to 3.
Page 2
If the X axis is to be oriented along the short edge of the
paper, i.e., "portrait" orientation, answer "S" to the next
question. The only other choice is "L", i.e., "Long" or
"Landscape".
Log or Linear
Linear scales are of two types: Fixed and Uniform. Fixed
scales are those where the whole axis is evenly divided by the
specified rules (Note carefully that there is always one more space
than there are rules.) Uniform divisions are based on absolute
scales without regard to the overall size of the frame. LaserGraf
can provide internally scales based on both centimeters and inches.
Since the LaserJet works on an internal resolution of 300 dots per
inch LaserGraf also includes an "Other" scale category where the
user can define a measuring unit by indicating its size in dots,
i.e., 300ths of an inch. If this method is chosen take care to note
that when the program asks for the distance between main rules in
"Other" units it wants the measure in fractions of the unit, not in
dots (the "unit" will have already been defined in dots). In most
cases the main rules would be one [1] unit apart.
The LaserJet has a high dimensional printing stability.
LaserGraf uniform scales will be found to be quite precise and
reasonably accurate across the dimensions of the whole frame.
Actual points of reference are the centers of rules; all rules are
adjusted to this standard regardless of the selected width. The
only exception is the frame, or border, of the grid where the
reference point is the inner edge (for all sides).
Logarithmic scales are not as definable as are the linear
ones. The user can only select the number of cycles and the widths
of the rules. All the rule locations and divisions are calculated
by the program. The number of rules varies according to the number
of cycles, as might be expected. Grids with log scales are quite
complex and it is possible to define a grid that cannot be
reproduced by the printer. (See Section 4 in this regard.)
Rule widths
Generally narrow rules are the most satisfactory, especially
since the LaserJet produces such black lines. (When lighter-colored
toners become available they will be especially applicable to
LaserGrafs.) The defaults for line widths are 4, 2, and 1 dots for
the main, secondary and tertiary rules respectively. The main and
secondary rules are solid [S] by default and the tertiary rules are
dotted [D]. The user should note that one characteristic of very
narrow dotted rules is that the "dotting" is not completely uniform.
This is because such rules are not actually dotted but are lines
across a dot matrix, or gray scale. In some cases the line may look
almost solid but a check with a magnifying glass will confirm that
it is dotted.
Titles
A title may be specified for the grid. It will be printed
in the Courier 10 Bold font and will be centered at the top of the
page in parallel with the X axis. The title should be less than
about 70 spaces long.
The specification and characteristics of the LaserGraf file
types are discussed below; it is not necessary to save a defined
grid to print it.
Page 3
The Summary Table
When all questions have been answered the defined grid will
be summarized on the screen. If any item is not satisfactory, press
"E" and the whole definition cycle will be repeated. In this case,
however, the previously chosen values will appear between square
brackets, e.g., [L]. Pressing <Enter> will preserve this value; it
is not necessary to repeat the same entry. Items to be changed
should be adjusted as necessary. The whole process may be repeated,
as necessary. Pressing "R" while viewing the Summary screen
produces much the same situation as does "E" except the return is
to the Beginning Menu where, for example, an ".LGF" file could be
loaded; since this is a new start, OLD VALUES ARE NOT SAVED WHEN "R"
IS PRESSED.
Pressing any other letter key will cause the rules to be
generated. Calibrations may now be entered, if wanted. When the
calibrations are decided, pressing [F1] will cause the files to be
saved (if asked for) and the grid printed. The program will
terminate afterward.
Observations
LaserGraf grids make ideal originals for photo copying or for
offset printing. Users will find that printing these derivative
copies in lighter colors will result in grids more ideal for many
applications than will any commercially available product.
Physically larger or smaller grid papers may be created by using the
scaling capabilities of many copy machines. If a uniform grid is
needed in another physical size the "Other Units" feature can define
an original unit just the right size so that the scaled copy is
accurate. Millions of LaserGraf combinations are possible.
During the definition of a grid it is possible to start over
at almost any time. The user will note that where it is necessary
to [Enter] a value that could have several keystrokes, the [Ctrl-S]
combination won't work. However, where the key press works directly
without a subsequent [Enter] the process will always abort and
return to the beginning menu. This same observation also applies
to the use of the [Esc] key; in this latter case, of course, the
program terminates and the user is returned to the DOS prompt.
3. USING AND SAVING LaserGraf FILES
LaserGraf can save the results of a grid definition in two
forms. One file type -- that with an extension of ".GRF" -- stores
the complete command set that produces the printer output. This
file type, once produced, may be used thereafter by simply using the
DOS print command, thus....
PRINT <filename>.GRF or
COPY <filename>.GRF PRN
Please note that ".GRF" files include a concluding form feed.
In consequence using the DOS "PRINT" command will cause a second,
blank sheet to be ejected from the printer; the "COPY" command will
produce only the grid sheet.
Page 4
LaserGraf cannot modify or print a ".GRF" file from within
the program except for the time when it is first defined and
produced. If it is desired to print grids later using LaserGraf
itself an ".LGF" file must be employed. This file can only be used
with LaserGraf since it consists only of all the essential
parameters which define the grid. Because of this it is quite easy
and useful to start with an already defined grid if a similar one
is desired.
When the Beginning Menu is displayed pressing "F" gives the
opportunity to enter an ".LGF" file name. If there is an error
pressing [Enter] again causes the program to list the ".LGF" files
in the default directory. A further [Enter] causes a return to the
file entry box. If it is decided then not to load a file, [Enter]
anything, then press [Ctrl-S] or [Esc].
After a file is defined the program asks for the file types
to be produced. Entering "N" will permit printing of the currently
defined grid without saving it in any form. "L" will result in an
".LGF" file and "G" will result in a ".GRF" file. Both letters may
be entered at the same time and both files will result. After the
file type is asked for a file name is requested. It will be used
with both the ".LGF" and ".GRF" extensions. If an existing file is
being modified be sure to specify a new title or the old file will
be overwritten.
4. PROBLEM SOLVING
It is possible to define a grid which is too complicated for
the LaserJet printer to produce. If the printer does not print a
complete grid (and it reports an Error 21) the program will
nevertheless produce the specified files. The grid should be
recalled into the LaserGraf program using the ".LGF" file. It may
be possible to simplify the grid enough to get it to print by
eliminating or simplifying rules. Try the following....
1. Eliminate any specified title printed on the grid.
2. Change dotted rules to solid rules.
3. Reduce the number of rules by using fewer divisions.
If you use a LaserJet II, you may illustrate this problem
by trying to print UCMUCMQL.GRF. It is likely that this will fail.
For some other printers, e.g., Kyocera, there will be no problem.
The Hewlett-Packard Technical Reference Manual for the
LaserJet series II printer (Part No. 33440-90905) gives very brief
information on the "Print Overrun" (21) error (see pages 13-9 and
13-14). A mention is also made in the User's Manual for the same
printer (Part No. 33440-90901) in Appendix B-4. These references
may help understanding but there is no solution to this problem
other than to reduce the complexity of the defined grid.
5. GLOSSARY
The following trade names and marks which belong to the
Hewlett-Packard Company have been used in this manual:
LaserJet, LaserJet II, PCL (Program Control Language), H-P
A4 A paper size widely used in Europe measuring 297
by 210 millimeters (a ratio of 1:√2).
Fixed A term applied to linear scales where the entire
frame length is evenly divided.
Page 5
GLOSSARY, CONT.
Grid A matrix of lines upon which a graph is charted;
also refered to as a "graph", or graph paper.
Legal A paper size used primarily in North America; it
measures 8.5 by 14 inches.
Logarithmic A grid spacing where the line position is the
logarithm of a linear scale.
Quarto A paper size widely used in North America; also
called "Letter" size. Nominally 8.5 by 11 inches.
Rule A printed line and constituant part of a grid.
Uniform A term applied to linear scales which are ruled
according to a measurement system, e.g., inches
or centimenters.
______________________________________________________________
ORDERING INFORMATION
Commercial use of LaserGraf is controlled by
New Atlantis Ltd.
Int'l. Company Services
Sovereign House, Station Road
St. Johns, Isle of Man
United Kingdom
The full software and a more complete manual may be ordered
through any software dealer from New Atlantis or directly through
the following agents:
COMART Services Richards Industries
Park J.F.Kennedy 290 Ardmore
Ave. W. Churchill, 163 Des Plaines IL 60016
1180 Brussels, Belgium USA
The Shareware version of the program, LGS.EXE, may be freely
copied and passed on to other non-commercial users for evaluation
purposes. If the program benefits the user a contribution of $10.00
must be sent to: W.J. Richards at either of the above addresses.
Comments and suggestions are welcomed.
(See the legal statement on the following page.)
POSTPAID PRICES
(Specify 3.5" or 5-1/4" Disk)
USA: $29.95 U.K.: £17.95 (w/o VAT) Europe: BelFrs995 (hors TVA)
Page 6
LEGAL CONDITIONS
LaserGraf -- Version 1.1
Copyright (c) 1990 by W.J. Richards, all rights reserved.
Disclaimer of Warranties and Limitation of Liabilities
The LaserGraf programs consist of the following: LaserGraf
{LG.EXE or LGS.EXE}, LaserGraf Documentation {LG.TXT}, and several
graph files {*.LGF and *.GRF}.
LaserGraf and its documentation are distributed without
expressed or implied warranties. No warranty of fitness for a
particular purpose is offered. You, the user, are advised to become
familiar with all of the LaserGraf programs before relying on them.
You assume all risk for the use and operation of these programs.
You alone shall be responsible for any loss of profits, loss of
savings, or other incidental or consequential damages arising out
of the correct or incorrect use of these programs, even if the
copyright owner or his assignees have been advised of the
possibility of any damages. Neither the originator(s) nor the
seller(s) of this software warrant that this documentation is
accurate, nor that any of the LaserGraf programs (specified above)
operate as claimed.
By using any of these programs the user agrees to the above
limitations.
Evaluation Agreement
If the Evaluation version of LaserGraf benefits you in any way
or you make regular use of any of the programs, please contribute
$10.00. You will receive a certificate entitling you to full credit
for the donation if you wish later to upgrade to the full commercial
version of LaserGraf. You will also receive notifications of any
upgrades that may become available in the future.
The Evaluation ("ShareWare") version of LaserGraf may not be
used in any environment beyond individual home applications. The
program is distributed for evaluation purposes only and any useful
application of the program obligates the user to buy the commercial
version.
Unmodified copies of the LaserGraf Evaluation disk may be kept
for personal use or given to others on the condition that they
receive the copy with concurrence to the present terms.
User groups may distribute the LaserGraf Evaluation disk
provided that they notify New Atlantis Ltd. of their intention in
writing. If a fee is charged to copy and distribute this disk, the
fee may not exceed $5.00. No additions or "bundling" with other
software or hardware is authorized; all LaserGraf programs must be
included and no further LaserGraf files may be added.
The commercial version of LaserGraf (LG.EXE) may be used on
only one computer at a time and no copies may be given to third
parties for any reason, even temporarily. Derivative programs
(*.GRF) files may not be sold and the LaserGraf logo must not
be removed from the printed output of LaserGraf programs.
Page 7