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1986-02-03
|
69KB
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1,526 lines
+----------------------------------------------------+
| AUTOMENU |
| Version 3.01 |
+----------------------------------------------------+
| by Marshall W. Magee |
| |
| (C)Copyright Magee Enterprises 1983, 1985 |
| ALL RIGHTS RESERVED |
+----------------------------------------------------+
| This version of the documentation, software |
| and copyright supersedes all previous versions of |
| AUTOMENU. |
+----------------------------------------------------+
July 15, 1985
=================================================================
COPY NOTICE
This software is a user-supported software package and is
protected by a federal copyright. The use of this software
program is expressly prohibited, except as authorized herein. If
you have received this software from another user and found this
software useful, the author would appreciate your sending a
contribution of thirty dollars. Without the written consent of
the author, users of this software and documentation are granted
a limited license to make an evaluation copy for trial use on a
private, non-commercial basis. This license does not include
distribution of this software package:
1. In connection with any other product or service
2. For general use within a company or institution
3. For any consideration or 'disk fee'
4. Distribution in modified form
If you wish to be registered for updates in AUTOMENU, you
will be required to send a contribution of thirty dollars. When
updates are made, we will let you know. Also if you have any
comments or suggestions concerning AUTOMENU send them to the
address below. A copy of this message can be obtained by
pressing "C" while in the AUTOMENU program. Updates and other
exciting programs will be available in the future. Please
support the free enterprise system. Thank you!
MAGEE ENTERPRISES
6577 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.
Norcross, Georgia 30092-3796
CompuServe [70167,2200]
=================================================================
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
----------------- ------
1.0 INTRODUCTION 4
1.1 Benefits and Advantages 4
1.2 Hardware & Software Requirements 5
1.3 How Does AUTOMENU work 5
2.0 GENERAL INFORMATION 6
3.0 HOW TO USE AUTOMENU 6
3.1 Setting up AUTOMENU for the first time 6
3.2 AUTOMENU Menu Definition File (MDF) 6
3.3 How to run AUTOMENU 8
3.4 Functional Characteristics 8
3.5 Mouse Support 9
3.6 Uses and Performance for Floppy Diskette Systems 10
3.7 Uses and Performance for Fixed Disk Systems 10
3.8 Error Messages 10
4.0 REFERENCE SECTION 11
4.1 Examples of AUTOMENU Menu Definition Files 11
4.1.1 AUTOMENU.MDF 11
4.1.2 AUTOM001.MDF 12
4.2 Examples of Batch files 13
4.2.1 Floppy Diskette Version 13
4.2.2 Fixed Disk Version 13
4.2.3 Example of AUTO.BAT 14
4.3 Example of a Configuration File 14
4.4 Menu Definition File Functions 14
4.4.1 ( % ) - Title 14
4.4.2 ( * ) - Option 14
4.4.3 ( ? ) - Option Help 15
4.4.4 ( ^ ) - Password 15
4.4.5 ( ~ ) - Coded Password 15
4.4.6 ( @ ) - Alternate Menu Definition File 15
4.4.7 ( - ) - Direct DOS Command without Pause 16
4.4.8 ( = ) - Direct DOS Command with Pause 16
4.4.9 ( ! ) - Batch DOS Commands Resident 16
4.4.10 ( + ) - Batch DOS Commands Non-Resident 17
4.4.11 ( . ) - Comment 17
4.4.12 ( # ) - End of Menu Definition File 17
5.0 CUSTOMIZATION 18
5.1 Patch for Tandy 2000 18
5.2 Changing Colors 19
5.3 Custom Switches 19
5.3.1 Auto Screen Blackout 19
5.3.2 Time Display 19
5.3.3 Control Break 19
5.3.4 Mouse Capability 20
5.3.5 Country code 20
5.3.6 Color or Black and White 20
5.4 Default filename for Menu Definition File 20
5.5 Default filename for Temporary Batch File 20
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued) PAGE
----------------------------- ------
6.0 USER SUPPORT 20
6.1 Problems 20
6.2 Updates 21
6.3 Assembler Source Code 21
6.4 Contacting the Author 21
6.5 Corporate Users 22
6.6 Dealers, Value added resellers, and Consultants 22
7.0 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT AUTOMENU 23
7.1 History 23
7.2 Author of AUTOMENU 23
8.0 CONCLUSIONS 24
8.1 User-Supported Software 24
8.2 Future 24
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 4
1.0 INTRODUCTION
-----------------
AUTOMENU is the solution to the problem of learning all the
DOS commands required to access many different application
programs. No longer will the user be required to type in a list
of commands to find the program they are looking for. With a
single press of a key, almost any application program can be made
available. AUTOMENU provides the user with an easy to read and
understandable menu of options to choose from. It automatically
executes the commands required to bring the selected menu option
to the user's fingertips. AUTOMENU provides the user with the
capability to set up their own customized menu systems. The user
can define the menu titles, the menu options displayed, and DOS
compatible commands required to carry out each of these menu
options.
1.1 Benefits & Advantages
--------------------------
- AUTOMENU can become memory resident, requiring the loading of
the Menu Definition File and the AUTOMENU program only once
- The software is entirely written in FAST ASSEMBLER language
- Program requires only 11,000 bytes of storage space on disk
- Execute any DOS command, program, or batch file directly without
creating a batch file to be executed outside AUTOMENU.
- Password Protection on any or all menu options
- Works on the PC, XT, PC Jr., Portable, AT, and 3270-PC
- Memory is allocated dynamically, using only what it needs
- Ability to define eight individual menus per Menu Definition File
- Eight menu options per menu
- Individually titled menus, automatically centered
- Compatible with floppy diskette or fixed disk systems
- Help Messages and Option help
- Many individual features that can be changed easily with
the AUTOMENU Installation Utility
- Mouse support to choose menu options
- Supports all monitors including the Enhanced Graphics Adapter
- The software is well-behaved; using only accepted programming
practices.
- Automatic Screen Blackout to save monitor
- Option to switch from the color to monochrome monitor and back
- Current date displayed in three different formats
- Current time displayed in 12-hour or 24-hour format while in menu
- Amount of Memory Available for use is displayed
- Status of Keyboard displayed (Caps Lock, Num Lock, Scroll Lock)
- Multiple keys perform the same functions for logical selection
- Updates available to registered users
- Sets ERRORLEVEL to 1 if error occurs in software
- A printed copy of the assembler source code is available
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 5
1.2 Hardware & Software Requirements
-------------------------------------
These are the minimum requirements of AUTOMENU:
* Compatible machine or (PC, XT, PC Jr., Portable, AT,
and 3270-PC)
* DOS (2.0, 2.1, 3.0, 3.1)
* Minimum of 30KB of free memory
* Monochrome and/or Color Monitors
1.3 How does AUTOMENU Work
---------------------------
AUTOMENU is designed to be the direct interface with the
user, so as not to allow the user direct access to DOS itself.
The software reads a Menu Definition File containing the
information needed to display options for the user to choose from
and the DOS commands to reach these options. During the setup
process, the user can choose various methods of reaching the
application program or DOS command requested by the option.
AUTOMENU has the ability to execute a command directly, in that,
AUTOMENU remains dormant in memory waiting for the application
program or DOS Command to finish before springing back to life.
The second concept used by AUTOMENU is the facility provided
by DOS, called batch files. A batch file contains a list of DOS
commands that you wish to be executed by entering one command. A
good example of a batch file is AUTOEXEC.BAT. This batch file is
executed automatically by DOS at boot time. It should contain
commands desired or needed to initialize your system. Examples
might be to set up a RAM disk or setting the time for your clock
card. This method when used by AUTOMENU builds a batch file
containing the commands required to carry out the menu option
selected. To use this method requires the use of the batch file
called AUTO.BAT. AUTO.BAT contains two commands; the first is
AUTOMENU, which executes the menu program, and the second is
AUTOTEMP, which is a batch file containing commands written to it
by AUTOMENU. After selecting your desired option from the menu,
AUTOMENU creates AUTOTEMP.BAT which in turn is executed by
AUTO.BAT. The AUTOTEMP.BAT batch file will contain the commands
required to execute the selected option. Although the use of
batch files are popular with most other menu systems, this
approach is both slow and antiquated and users should use the
direct DOS command capability whenever possible.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 6
2.0 GENERAL INFORMATION
------------------------
The files distributed with AUTOMENU are listed below. Be
sure that you have all of them. If not, please feel free to
contact us.
AUTOMENU COM <- Main AUTOMENU program
AUTOMENU MDF <- Menu Definition File
AUTOM001 MDF <- Secondary Menu Definition File
AUTO BAT <- Batch file to call AUTOMENU
AUTOMENU DOC <- Documentation for AUTOMENU
AUTOINST COM <- Installation Utility program
This version is the third major release of AUTOMENU. Old
AUTOMENU users will find many changes and additions and should
take the time to read the entire USERS GUIDE. Only then can you
take advantage of the many individual enhancements.
3.0 HOW TO USE AUTOMENU
------------------------
The best way to learn how to use AUTOMENU is to experiment
with it. There are examples listed here in the documentation and
examples included with the package.
3.1 Setting up AUTOMENU for the first time
-------------------------------------------
A text editor, such as EDLIN or WordStar, and a knowledge
of DOS are required to initially set AUTOMENU up. Thereafter, its
use consists of simply selecting options from the menu. Start
by formatting a new diskette and loading the diskette with the
Disk Operating System. Copy the four files listed below onto the
diskette. To gain some idea of what AUTOMENU looks like, execute
the program AUTOMENU and select the option 'Print Directory to
screen'.
AUTO.BAT
AUTOMENU.COM
AUTOMENU.MDF
AUTOM001.MDF
3.2 AUTOMENU Menu Definition File (MDF)
----------------------------------------
The default Menu Definition File used by AUTOMENU is called
AUTOMENU.MDF which contains all the information needed by
AUTOMENU to build the menu. Before starting, determine what you
plan to title your menus, what menu options you wish to have, and
the DOS commands required to execute those options. This
information can then be used to build a Menu Definition File.
Below is a small example.
%TITLE OF MENU ONE
.THIS IS A COMMENT LINE
.TO PLACE HELPFUL INFO
*OPTION ONE OF MENU ONE
?OPTION HELP
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 7
^OPTION PASSWORD
-DIRECT DOS COMMAND WITHOUT PAUSE
*OPTION TWO OF MENU ONE
+DOS COMMAND
+DOS COMMAND
%TITLE OF MENU TWO
*OPTION ONE OF MENU TWO
+DOS COMMAND
*OPTION TWO OF MENU TWO
!DOS COMMAND
!DOS COMMAND
#END OF MENU FILE
The software determines the difference of the items listed
in the Menu Definition File by the first character in each line.
These special characters are listed below (See Reference Section
for more information):
Character Name Function Performed
--------- -------------- ---------------------------------------
% percent sign title
* asterisk option
? question mark option help
^ circumflex password
~ tilde coded password
@ at sign alternate menu definition file
- minus sign direct dos command (resident) no pause
= equal sign direct dos command (resident) pause
! exclamation batch dos commands (resident) no pause
+ plus sign batch dos command (non-resident)
. period comment
# pound sign end of file
The maximum length for each line of information is 50
characters. The maximum number of menus that can be defined by
one menu definition file is eight, with a maximum number of eight
options per menu. The number of DOS commands that can be
defined for an individual option is unlimited. However, the
overall size of the menu definition file is limited to about 1000
lines of information. The memory used by AUTOMENU is dynamically
allocated depending on the size of the file. Use the example
below as a guide to setting up the AUTOMENU.MDF file.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 8
Example contents of AUTOMENU.MDF
+---------------------------------+ This is the title of the menu
|%MY MAIN MENU | <- marked by the percent sign.
|*Directory of Drive A: | <- This is a menu option marked
|+DIR A: | by a star.
|+AUTO | <- This is a DOS compatible
|*Format A: | Command marked by a plus sign.
|?Initialize Diskette in Drive A: | <- This Option Help marked by a
|-FORMAT A: | Question Mark.
|*Word Processing Menu | <- This menu option will change the
|+CHDIR \TEXT | present directory to a TEXT sub
|+AUTO | directory, and will load a
|*Copy Automenu.doc to printer | different AUTOMENU.MDF.
|-COPY AUTOMENU.DOC PRN: | <- This is a direct DOS
|*Return to Disk Operating System | command, it will be
|+REM Welcome to DOS | performed while AUTOMENU
|+REM Enter 'AUTO' for Menu | remains in memory.
|#End of data for AUTOMENU | <- This marks the end of menu data
+---------------------------------+ file marked by a pound sign.
3.3 How to run AUTOMENU
------------------------
There are two ways to run AUTOMENU. The first way is to
execute a batch file called AUTO.BAT. This batch file will
execute AUTOMENU and then allow the execution of a batch file
built by AUTOMENU, if the non-resident batch feature are used.
The second way to execute AUTOMENU is directly by entering
AUTOMENU at the DOS prompt or placing AUTOMENU in your
AUTOEXEC.BAT file. Using this method will allow for only the use
of the resident features of AUTOMENU. If an error occurs during
the execution of AUTOMENU, the return code (ERRORLEVEL) is set
for detection by the DOS batch processor.
This software also allows for the specification of a Menu
Definition File on the Command Line at the DOS Prompt. This will
override the default Menu Definition Filename AUTOMENU.MDF.
Examples:
A>automenu d:\data\dos.mdf ( read in DOS.MDF as the MDF )
or
A>AUTOMENU [drive:][path][Menu Definition Filename]
3.4 Functional Characteristics
-------------------------------
The menu options or menu items can be selected in various
ways. The particular menu option with the arrow pointing to it
can be selected by pressing the return key. The arrow pointer
can be moved to another menu option by using the up and down
arrow keys. A menu option can also be selected by pressing the
number value or FUNCTION KEY corresponding to that menu option.
If more than one menu has been defined, the user can change to
the other menus by pressing F10 to go forward one menu and F9 to
go backwards one menu. The user also has the ability to switch
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 9
active monitors from monochrome to color and back again by
pressing the letter "S". However, this changing of active
monitors will not occur if another monitor is not available.
This software also has a built in screen blackout feature; if the
machine remains inactive inside the menu for more than three
minutes, the screen will be turned off until the user presses a
character key on the keyboard.
While the user is at the menu, various fields of information
are being displayed. The Menu selected tells the user how many
menus are available and which particular one is being displayed.
The user is also informed of the status of the keyboard toggles
CAPS LOCK, NUM LOCK, and SCROLL LOCK. The status of the CTRL,
ALT, and SHIFT keys are also displayed. This status is helpful
in teaching users the difference between a CAPS LOCK and the CTRL
key; the fact that one is a toggle and the other is temporary.
The memory available field displays the amount of available free
memory which is not allocated by AUTOMENU. This is helpful in
determining if enough memory is available to load another
application program. The option help field is also displayed at
the bottom of the menu above the status block. This field
displays additional information about the current option being
pointed to by the pointer, but only if the field has been defined
by the option.
A list of the valid commands while in AUTOMENU:
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 Select option on menu
F1, F2, F3, F4 Select option on menu
F5, F6, F7, F8
Up arrow Move arrow pointer up
Down arrow, space Move arrow pointer down
Return key Select option being pointed to
F10, PgDn, right arrow Go to next menu
F9, PgUp, left arrow Go to previous menu
Home First Menu
End Last Menu
S Switch active monitor (COLOR/MONO)
C Print Copy Notice
Any other key Prints Help Message
3.5 Mouse Support
------------------
AUTOMENU supports the use of a mouse to allow the user to
move the pointer and to select an option. Moving the mouse up
and down simulates the use of the up and down arrow keys which
moves the option pointer up and down on the menu. Moving the
mouse from side to side will simulate the use of the left and
right arrow keys which will then display other menus if they were
defined. Pressing any of the mouse buttons will simulate the
pressing of the return key which selects the option being pointed
to. The mouse interface which AUTOMENU uses to control the mouse
is provided by the mouse manufacturer through a device driver or
DOS resident program. AUTOMENU looks for this support through
interrupt 33H. The only manufacturer that provides this support
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 10
to our knowledge is MOUSE SYSTEMS, INC. for their mouse called
"PC-MOUSE". They have provided its users with both a device
driver and DOS resident mouse interface. If this interface is
installed, AUTOMENU will detect its presences and communicate
with the interface.
3.6 Uses and Performance for Floppy Diskette Systems
-----------------------------------------------------
For a floppy based system, placing the AUTOMENU files on a
newly formatted diskette will enhance AUTOMENU's performance.
The use of a RAM drive and the copying of the COMMAND.COM file
into this RAM Drive will also help. The Customization section
can also help to change the location of where the temporary batch
file is written. For example, the RAM Drive.
3.7 Uses and Performance for Fixed Disk Systems
----------------------------------------------------
On a fixed disk system, where several sub-directories
usually exist, AUTOMENU provides an easy way to change to a
different directory and execute a program or load another
AUTOMENU.MDF file with a different set of options. The DOS PATH
command works well within a fixed disk environment and gives the
user the ability to execute most programs from any sub-directory.
A good example would be to create a sub-directory called PUBLIC
and within this sub-directory place the programs and batch files
commonly used; for example: BASICA.COM, DISKCOPY.COM, FORMAT.COM
along with AUTOMENU.COM and AUTO.BAT. A good example of an
AUTOEXEC.BAT file to setup your fixed disk system is contained in
the reference section.
3.8 Error Messages
-------------------
There are various types of errors available with AUTOMENU.
(1) Error reading "MENU DEFINITION FILE" file
This error occurs when the program cannot find or read
the Menu Definition File. Can also occur if the file is
not in the correct format.
(2) Invalid Filename
The filename given to AUTOMENU is too long.
(3) Not enough Memory available to load MDF
The Menu Definition File is too big to fit into
available memory.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 11
(4) AUTOMENU requires DOS 2.0 or Higher
This software will not operate under DOS 1.0 or DOS 1.1.
(5) Not enough memory to load COMMAND.COM
To execute any direct DOS commands requires at least
17KB of Memory to load COMMAND.COM.
(6) COMSPEC= Not found in Environment
AUTOMENU requires this information to be in the
environment to find COMMAND.COM.
(7) Can't write "TEMPORARY BATCH FILE" file
This error occurs when the program cannot write to disk
or no space is left on disk to write file or disk is
write protected.
(8) Command error
This error occurs when the user presses any key not
defined by the program, and as a result the "MENU HELPS"
will be displayed. These helps will then be removed on
next valid command.
4.0 REFERENCE SECTION
----------------------
4.1 Examples of AUTOMENU Menu Definition Files (MDF)
-----------------------------------------------------
4.1.1 AUTOMENU.MDF
-------------------
...................................................
. AUTOMENU Menu Definition File
.
. By Marshall W. Magee
...................................................
%Automenu Application Menu
*Word Processor
?Run the PERSONAL EDITOR program (Password = IBM)
~JCN
-pe
*Install AUTOMENU
?This will allow you to customize AUTOMENU
+AUTOINST
+AUTO
*Basic
?Run BASIC directly
-basica
*Check fixed disk
=CHKDSK/F
*Print Directory to screen
=DIR
*DOS COMMAND MENU
?Load AUTOMENU Simply DOS Menu
@autom001.mdf
*Copy AUTOMENU Documentation to line printer
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 12
?Prints Document to PRN:
-COPY AUTOMENU.DOC PRN:
*Disk Operating System
?Return to Disk Operating System
+ECHO OFF
+ECHO +---------------------+
+ECHO | Returning to DOS |
+ECHO +---------------------+
+ECHO | Enter > AUTO < |
+ECHO |to return to the Menu|
+ECHO +---------------------+
+ECHO ON
.
.------------------------------
. Define another sub-menu
.------------------------------
.
%******* Executive Diversions *******
*Chess
!CD \GAMES
!CHESS
!CD \
!AUTO
*Backgammon
!CD \GAMES
!BACK
!CD \
!AUTO
*JUMPJOE
!CD \GAMES
!JUMPJOE
!CD \
!AUTO
# END OF AUTOMENU.MDF
4.1.2 AUTOM001.MDF
-------------------
%Automenu Simple DOS
*Directory of Drive A:
?Will display all files of drive A:
=DIR A:/P
*Directory of Drive B:
=DIR B:/P
*Check diskette in Drive A:
=CHKDSK A:
*Check diskette in Drive B:
=CHKDSK B:
*Format a data diskette in B:
^BOB
?Format disk in Drive B: using "ZFORMAT B:"
-ZFORMAT B:
*Format diskette in B: with system on it
?Format disk in Drive B: using "ZFORMAT B:/S/V"
^BOB
-ZFORMAT B:/S/V
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 13
*Return to Main Menu
?Will return to Main Menu
@automenu.MDF
%Backup Menu
*Prepare diskette in A: to be used for backup
+ECHO Enter Ctrl-Break & "Y" to STOP format
+PAUSE
+ZFORMAT A:
+AUTO
*Total Backup of Drive C:
+BACKUP C:\ A:/S
+AUTO
*Update backup for files changed on Drive C:
+BACKUP C:\ A:/S/M
+AUTO
#END OF AUTOM001.MDF
4.2 Examples of Batch Files
----------------------------
4.2.1 Floppy Diskette Version
------------------------------
Contents of AUTOEXEC.BAT
+--------------------------------+
|AUTO |
+--------------------------------+
4.2.2 Fixed Disk Version
-------------------------
Example contents of AUTOEXEC.BAT good for fixed disk systems
+---------------------------+
|ECHO OFF | <- Don't display commands that follow
|TIME | <- Request present time
|DATE | <- Request present date
|COPY COMMAND.COM D: | <- Copy COMMAND.COM to RAM Drive
|SET COMSPEC=D:\COMMAND.COM | <- Tell DOS new location of COMMAND.COM
|PROMPT $P $G | <- Prompt to show present sub-directory
|PATH=C:\PUBLIC | <- Path to sub-directory PUBLIC on C:
|VERIFY on | <- Disk read after write check
|AUTO | <- Execute AUTOMENU batch file
|REM autoexec.bat | <- Remark statement in batch file.
|REM by Marshall W. Magee |
|REM on 07/02/83 |
+---------------------------+
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 14
4.2.3 Example of AUTO.BAT
--------------------------
Example of AUTO.BAT
+---------------------------+
|ECHO OFF | <- Don't Display commands that follow
|AUTOMENU | <- Execute AUTOMENU program
|IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO QUIT | <- Check for ERROR during AUTOMENU
|AUTOTEMP | <- No Error, Execute AUTOTEMP.BAT
|:QUIT | <- Label for error goto statement
|ECHO ON | <- Display commands that follow
+---------------------------+
4.3 Example of Configuration File
----------------------------------
This is an example of a CONFIG.SYS which can be placed on
the root directory of a fixed disk. DOS checks for this file when
the computer is first started and interprets the text commands
within.
+-------------------------------+
|BUFFERS=10 | <- Set buffers to ten
|DEVICE=C:\PUBLIC\VDISK.SYS | <- Sets up a ram drive
|DEVICE=C:\PUBLIC\QLPT1.SYS | <- Sets up a print spooler
|DEVICE=C:\PUBLIC\MSMOUSE.SYS | <- Loads mouse device driver
+-------------------------------+
4.4 Menu Definition File (MDF) Functions
-----------------------------------------
This section describes the various functions that can be
defined in the Menu Definition File (MDF). The MDF is a standard
text file that is read by AUTOMENU to obtain the information
needed to display the menu. The file consists of lines of
information ending with a carriage return and line feed
characters. The first character of each line is used to define
the function of that line to AUTOMENU. Below is a list of the
valid functions and a description of each.
4.4.1 Title
------------
( % ) - Title - a title must be defined for each individual
menu. This title will be displayed on the second line on the
menu. The Title will be also be centered automatically. In each
MDF the user can define eight individual menus in this file.
4.4.2 Option
-------------
( * ) - Option - this is the actual item displayed for the
user to choose from. There is a limit of eight different options
to each of the eight individual menus in the file.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 15
4.4.3 Option Help
------------------
( ? ) - Option Help - will cause the text that follows to be
displayed as a description for the option that the arrow pointer
is pointing to. The text is centered automatically and printed
on a line above the status block at the bottom of the menu.
EXAMPLE: *AUTOMENU Documentation
?This Option prints Document to printer
4.4.4 Password
---------------
( ^ ) - Password - the text that follows this function will
be used as the password required by the user to gain access to
that option selected. A max of 30 characters is allowed for
password. The example below would require the user to enter the
password "DOS". The password checking routine does not try to
determine any difference between UPPER and lower case letters.
EXAMPLE: *Return to Disk Operating System
^DOS
4.4.5 Coded Password
---------------------
( ~ ) - Coded Password - the text that follows this symbol
will be used as the password required by the user to gain access
to that option selected. A max of 30 characters is allowed for
password. The example below would require the user to enter the
password "ABC". The password checking routine does not try to
determine any difference between UPPER and lower case letters.
This option is different in that each character in the password
that is written into the MDF is shifted one character to the
right. If you wanted a user to enter the password "ABC" , shift
each letter to the right to cause a coding effect on the
password. For Example: A is shifted to B; B is shifted to C; C
is shifted to D.
EXAMPLE: *Return to Disk Operating System
~BCD
4.4.6 Alternate MDF
--------------------
( @ ) - Alternate MDF - this specific option will cause the
text that follows to be treated as the name of another Menu
Definition File (MDF). When the user selects an option with this
listed under it, AUTOMENU will read the new MDF and change the
menu display accordingly to show the options in the new MDF. The
MDF filename can be any valid DOS filename and can include drive
name and path. The file can also be a hidden file. If for
example, the MDF called "DOS.MDF" was on drive D: in
subdirectory PUBLIC, the following example shows an example on
how to get AUTOMENU to read that file as a MDF.
EXAMPLE: *Load DOS Command Sub Menu
@d:\public\DOS.MDF
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 16
4.4.7 Direct DOS Command without Pause
---------------------------------------
( - ) - Direct DOS Command - this specific option will cause
the text that follows to be interpreted as a valid DOS command.
A limit of one Direct DOS command per menu option. When the user
selects the menu option, AUTOMENU loads a second COMMAND.COM and
requests this Direct DOS Command to be executed while AUTOMENU
remains resident in memory in a dormant state. But as a result,
the memory available is reduced by minimum of 14K, memory which
was allocated to AUTOMENU and the second COMMAND.COM. When the
DOS command is finished, AUTOMENU will regain control and will
display the menu without rereading the MDF. This function acts
as if the command were entered at the DOS level. As DOS normally
does, it will search both the present directory and any other
directories specified by the DOS PATH command. And with this
function, AUTOMENU does not pause before displaying the menu when
it regains control.
EXAMPLE: *Format diskette in drive B:
-FORMAT B:/S/V
4.4.8 Direct DOS Command with Pause
------------------------------------
( = ) - Direct DOS Command - this function works the same as
the function above, but when AUTOMENU regains control the user is
required to press the space bar or any button on the mouse to
return to the menu.
4.4.9 Batch DOS Commands Resident
----------------------------------
( ! ) - Batch DOS Commands - this function defines a DOS
command to be executed in a DOS batch file. There is no limit to
the number of commands that can be defined under each menu
option. AUTOMENU will create a batch file containing the lines
marked with this function. After the batch file is written,
AUTOMENU will execute this batch file in the same manner as the
function Direct DOS command ( - ) above. In other words, AUTOMENU
remains resident during the execution of this batch file.
EXAMPLE: *Execute 123 in it sub-directory
!cd \lotus123
!123
!cd \
4.4.10 Batch DOS Commands Non-Resident
---------------------------------------
( + ) - Batch DOS Commands - this function defines a DOS
command to be executed in a DOS batch file. There is no limit to
the number of commands that can defined under each menu option.
AUTOMENU will create a batch file containing the lines marked
with this function. After the batch file is written, AUTOMENU
will return to the Disk Operating System.
To make use of this function it requires the use of one
batch file used with AUTOMENU and it is called AUTO.BAT.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 17
AUTO.BAT contains two commands: the first is AUTOMENU, which
executes the menu program, and the second is AUTOTEMP, which is
the name of the batch file containing commands written to it by
AUTOMENU. After selection of the desired menu option from the
menu, AUTOMENU creates AUTOTEMP.BAT which in turn is executed by
AUTO.BAT. AUTOTEMP.BAT batch file will contain the commands
required for the menu option selected. It is important that the
last command be AUTO, so that AUTOMENU regains control. If not,
the user will be returned to DOS.
EXAMPLE: *Directory of Diskette in Drive A:
+DIR/P
+PAUSE
+AUTO
To date this method is the most commonly used by menu
systems similar to AUTOMENU. This method has an advantage and
disadvantage, the advantage is that AUTOMENU does not remain
resident in memory, reducing the memory requirements of the user.
The disadvantage of using this method is that batch files execute
slowly and in addition require the reloading of the AUTOMENU
program when the batch file is finished.
This paragraph explains a BUG in the DOS 3.0 batch
processor, that might be construed as a problem with AUTOMENU.
DOS gives the user the capability of executing a batch file from
a batch file. The problem is that if a batch file calls another
batch file; the users memory is decreased by 80 bytes. This
memory could then only be recovered by rebooting the user's
system. The problem would continue if the second batch file
called a third batch file, resulting in an additional 64 bytes of
memory loss. Any further chains to other batch files would
continue to allocate the users memory in 64 byte pieces until
their was none left to allocate. For most users, this problem is
never even noticed and/or does not become a problem, but it is an
interesting discovery. This bug does not occur in DOS 1.0, 1.1,
2.0, or 2.1. And this BUG in DOS 3.0 has been corrected with DOS
3.1.
4.4.11 Comment
---------------
( . ) - Comment - this function is used to place a comment
inside the MDF. AUTOMENU simply ignores this line all together.
Anything can be placed on this line.
4.4.12 End of Menu Definition File
-----------------------------------
( # ) - End of MDF - this function is used to inform
AUTOMENU that it has reached the end of the MDF. AUTOMENU will
stop reading there, and information that follows will be ignored.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 18
5.0 CUSTOMIZATION
------------------
The program AUTOINST.COM has been made available to help
customize the many individual features of AUTOMENU. Also allows
user to reset all features to their original defaults. To run
this program enter the following command:
A>autoinst
This will make the changes to AUTOMENU.COM. If you have
renamed AUTOMENU.COM to some other name, you can specify the new
name in the command line and include an optional drive and path
name.
A>AUTOINST [d:][path]AUTOMENU.COM
or
A>autoinst c:\public\menu.com
Once AUTOINST is executed, it will check to make sure the
file specified exists and that this is the correct file to be
changing for this version of AUTOINST. The user will be given
the choice to change colors, custom switchs, filenames, and a
choice to reset all features to their original values. Other
changes to customize AUTOMENU can be made in such areas as keys,
messages, and sounds among others. For more information write a
letter to the address listed on page one. Future versions of the
AUTOINST will address these area as the need warrants.
5.1 Cursor Patch for Tandy 2000
--------------------------------
This patch will fix programs related to the Tandy 2000.
A>debug automenu.com <- Run DOS's DEBUG on AUTOMENU
-F 038C L2 0A 41 <- Turn Cursor off
-F 1D6A L6 B8 07 0E CD 10 C3 <- Beep on error or password
-F 18A5 L7 B4 01 B9 0A 01 CD 10 <- Turn Cursor on
-F 2167 L7 B4 01 B9 0A 01 CD 10 <- Turn Cursor on
-F 22BE L7 B4 01 B9 0A 01 CD 10 <- Turn Cursor on
-F 1851 L1 02 <- Change mode set to 80 B&W
-F 21F3 L1 02 <- Change mode set to 80 B&W
-W <- Write Changes made
Writing xxxx Bytes
-Q <- Quit Debug
A>debug autoinst.com <- Run DOS's DEBUG on AUTOINST
-F 05F0 L2 0A 41 <- Turn Cursor off
-F 174B L9 50 B4 01 B9 0A 01 CD 10 58 <- Turn Cursor on
-F 176D L7 B4 01 B9 0A 01 CD 10 <- Turn Cursor on
-F 17D8 L7 B4 01 B9 0A 01 CD 10 <- Turn Cursor on
-F 173D L1 02 <- Change mode set to 80 B&W
-W <- Write changes made
Writing xxxx Bytes
-Q <- Quit Debug
A> <- Returned to DOS, all Done.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 19
5.2 Changing Colors
--------------------
This option on the menu will allow the user to easily change
the colors of both the foreground and the background of each area
on the menu. Each area is displayed in its current color and by
moving the pointer with the cursor keys the user can select the
area to change. The left and right arrow keys then allow for
changing of the colors quickly. The page up and page down keys
also allow for quick changing of background colors. The HOME and
END key allow the user to change the foreground color from high
to low or low to high intensity. Pressing the S key will switch
the active monitor from monochrome to color or color to
monochrome and then only if the other monitor is available. All
these commands are listed on the color installation screen. A
mouse would simulate the cursor keys if used. The user can change
the color of any area to black on black to effectively erase this
area from being displayed on the screen.
5.3 Custom Switches
--------------------
This option on the menu allows the user to change individual
switches inside AUTOMENU. The cursor keys are used to select the
item to change. The left and right arrow keys are used to cycle
through the possible choices for each switch. All these commands
are listed on the custom switches screen. A mouse would simulate
the cursor keys if used.
5.3.1 Auto Screen Blackout
---------------------------
Three switches are associated with auto screen blackout.
The length of time before the menu is removed from the screen can
be changed anywhere from 1 to 15 minutes. When blackout occurs a
message will be displayed to inform the user what has happened to
the menu. This message will scroll every 30 seconds. This
message can be disabled or enabled. The third option can be to
turn the auto screen blackout ON or OFF all together.
5.3.2 Time Display
-------------------
The user can select the time display format to be either
12-hour format with AM and PM displayed or 24-hour format as
displayed by DOS.
5.3.3 Control Break
--------------------
AUTOMENU can be set to intercept all Control Breaks that the
user enters while under the control of AUTOMENU. This provides
for additional security and helps prevent the user from ending up
in DOS by mistake. Note, this option will not stop Control Breaks
issued by the user during the execution of Batch DOS Commands
using the Non-Resident feature.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 20
5.3.4 Mouse Capability
-----------------------
This switch will disable AUTOMENU's capability to use a
mouse regardless of the presence of the mouse interface provided
by the mouse manufacturer. If this switch is enabled, AUTOMENU
will check for the mouse interface at INT 33H and if it is not
there AUTOMENU will not respond to the mouse.
5.3.5 Country Code
-------------------
The date displayed at the bottom of the screen can be set to
be displayed in the following three formats:
USA = Month Day, Year -> July 2, 1960
EUROPE = Day Month Year -> 2 July 1960
JAPAN = Year Month Day -> 1960 July 2
5.3.6 Color or Black and White
-------------------------------
This option allows the user the filter out all colors that
would be displayed and only show their low and high intensity
attributes. This black and white format is good for those users
with amber monitors such as the PC Portable or users who prefer
black and white. This result could be obtained by changing the
colors in the Color Installation section, but this is much
faster. This switch does not effect colors set in the other
section.
5.4 Default filename for Menu Definition File
----------------------------------------------
This option allows the user to define the filename that
AUTOMENU will look for to load the Menu Definition from. The
filename can be preceded by a drive and path name specification.
5.5 Default filename for Temporary Batch File
----------------------------------------------
This option allows the user to define the filename that
AUTOMENU will create as the batch file to contain the Batch DOS
commands. The filename can be proceded by a drive and path name
specification. This allows for the batch file to be created on
an non-write protect drive or a RAMDISK. The batch file could
also be placed in the sub-directory defined by your path command.
This option makes it unnessesary to have the AUTOTEMP.BAT batch
file on all your sub-directories. Note: If you change the name
from AUTOTEMP.BAT to something else, please make the change in
AUTO.BAT also.
6.0 USER SUPPORT
-----------------
6.1 Problems
-------------
If you have problems with AUTOMENU, please read this manual
first to make sure you do understand everything. We have tried
to provide a problem-free product but sometimes we make mistakes.
If you think you have found a problem please take the time to
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 21
write us and explain your problem to us. All registered users
will be informed of any problems and their solution. Make sure
that you include the following information to help us evaluate
the problem:
1. Version of DOS used
2. Machine type, memory, monitors, etc.
3. Any application executed before AUTOMENU
4. Your address and telephone number
5. Where and how you obtained AUTOMENU
6. Which version of AUTOMENU you are using
6.2 Updates
------------
AUTOMENU changes to respond to the requests of its users.
Therefore if you wish to be registered for notices of updates in
AUTOMENU, you will be required to send a contribution of thirty
dollars. When updates are made, we will let you know. Please
use the invoice included at the end of this document. Also
include information on where you obtained this software.
6.3 Assembler Source Code
--------------------------
The source code for this software consists of more than
5,000 lines of code or about 85 printed pages and is written
entirely in assembler language, including the installation
utility. A printed listing of the assembler source code and
documentation in a bound book form is available ONLY to
registered users for $20.00 (Outside USA or Canada add $15.00 for
postage). This offer is for those users who are both interested
in assembler language and the inter-workings of this software.
The source code is not available to users in diskette form.
For those interested, the source code was composed with
IBM's Personal Editor and assembled with IBM's Macro Assembler
Version 2.00 under DOS 3.1.
6.4 Contacting the Author
--------------------------
The best way to reach the author is to drop a postcard in
the mail. The address provided will be good at least for the next
15 years. If you write a letter or drop a postcard in the mail
to us, we can send you the information on how to contact us more
directly by phone. The CompuServe ID number provided on the
first page is the personal user ID for the author of this
software. He can be reached by sending E-Mail to his user ID.
There is no official telephone number listed in the phone book
for MAGEE ENTERPRISES.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 22
6.5 Corporate Users
--------------------
AUTOMENU is the solution to problems many businesses are
having and is worth more than the thirty dollars requested.
Therefore, corporate users are expected to register each one of
the copies of AUTOMENU they are using. Corporate users please
use the invoice below and also include the name of the person to
contact with notices of updates.
6.6 Dealers, Value added resellers, and Consultants
----------------------------------------------------
AUTOMENU is your ticket to setting up a turnkey system for
your customers. This software was designed for this use. If you
would like to use AUTOMENU and include it with your packages,
please write to us. The basic requirement will be that you or
your customer must pay the thirty dollars. You cannot give this
software to your customer without first making sure that the
payment of thirty dollars will be made. This requirement is for
your protection since this software is protected by a federal
copyright, and the author is therefore the only party that can
receive any consideration or payment for this software.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 23
7.0 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT AUTOMENU
------------------------------------------
7.1 History
------------
The first version of AUTOMENU was written during the summer
of 1983. The program was the solution to teaching new users too
much information about the use of the computer. Turning the
computer on should be the hardest part for the user. But, now
that more than one application can be made available on a fixed
disk, an easier method must be available to both access and
manage these applications. Exposure to a personal computer users
group showed that many users out there had the same problem.
After testing AUTOMENU on these users for six months, it was
decided to make the program available to everyone who had the
desire to use it. Version 1.6 of AUTOMENU was originally placed
onto only one Remote Bulletin Board System (RBBS) in Auburn,
Alabama. In days, AUTOMENU had spread like wildfire to many
different bulletin boards throughout the United States. Within a
few weeks, the first letters concerning AUTOMENU arrived.
Letters containing ideas and suggestions about both the problems
and the limitations of version 1.6 prompted a major update to
version 2.0. That version released in October 1984, has remained
unchanged until now, the official release of this version 3.0.
To date, AUTOMENU is being used by fifty or more reported users,
many of which are corporations including such names as:
American Express Grant Corporation
AMSCO King County, Washington
James B. Beam Distilling Company Ladd Petroleum Corporation
Becton Dickinson and Company Long Island Water Corporation
Brigham Young University Memorex GMBH
Coca-Cola Occidental Crude Sales, Inc.
Citibank Pacific Gas & Electric
Deloitte Haskins & Sells Seven-Up Company
Ernst & Whinney Vertical Software Incorporated
General Electric Veterans Administration
Because of the support of both individuals and corporations,
AUTOMENU will continue to strive to be the best product of its
kind available.
7.2 Author of AUTOMENU
-----------------------
Marshall W. Magee was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia.
At present, he is an undergradute student studying engineering at
Auburn University in Alabama. During the past eight years, he
has worked in all areas of software design and development.
Working with a wide variety of computers developing everything
from large accounting systems on mainframes to small custom
programs for small businesses. While at school, he works part-
time and sometimes full-time for various computer companies and
for the school of engineering at the university. His responsibles
include the management of programmers and the design and
maintenance of various software packages as well as teaching
classes on computer related topics.
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
AUTOMENU Version 3.01 USERS GUIDE Page 24
8.0 CONCLUSION
---------------
AUTOMENU is the result of many hours of design and
development on the part of the author. It is his desire that as
many people as possible find this software useful.
8.1 User-Supported Software
----------------------------
This software is made available under the concept of User-
Support Software, in which users support the author. While
support is expected from most users in the form of a monetary
contribution, there are additional methods that can be considered
support from the user. Passing information about AUTOMENU to your
friends, personal computer clubs, businesses, and electronics
bulletin boards would help AUTOMENU. Another method of support
could be the writing of reviews to be sent and printed by
computer magazines and/or computer club newsletters.
8.2 Future
-----------
There will always be improvements in this software as the
need warrants. Any comments or suggestions concerning AUTOMENU
would be greatly appreciated. Updates and other exciting programs
will be available in the future. Please support the free
enterprise system. Thank you!
=================================================================
End of Documentation for Version 3.01 of AUTOMENU
(C)Copyright MAGEE ENTERPRISES 1983, 1985 All Rights Reserved
-----------------
INVOICE
-----------------
BILL FROM: MAGEE ENTERPRISES DATE: _________
6577 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.
Norcross, Georgia 30092-3796
BILL TO: _________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
Attention: __________________ Telephone: _____________
QUANTITY ITEM COST PER UNIT TOTAL COST
======== ===================== ================= ================
____ AUTOMENU Program 3.01 $30.00 _______
____ Printed Source Code $20.00 _______
================================================= ================
(Outside USA or Canada add $15.00 for postage) $15.00
Total Amount .... _______
==================================================================
Make checks payable to: MAGEE ENTERPRISES
