Welcome to our Personal Accounts Suite for the Psion Series 3C/Mx and Acorn Pocket Book.
As it stands, this Shareware version is fully-working with no disabled functions, but will allow only a limited number of entries, such as 3 Accounts, 5 Standing Orders, 5 Budget Categories, 5 Shares and 5 Rooms for the Home Inventory etc. Registration will give you more realistic values, such as 20 Accounts and 50 Standing Orders in each Group, and 50 Budget Items, 50 Shares and 20 Rooms. Please note that registration does not involve reloading the program, but simply typing in a registration code to release the 'lock'.
FILE DETAILS
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The program consists of the following essential files:
\APP\RMRBANK.APP The main program file (and only essential one)
The following optional files:
\APP\BANK\RMRBANK.PIC Optional Opening Picture
\APP\BANK\RMRBANK.HLP Optional Help File for Core program
README.TXT "Get you started" instructions for new users
RMRBANK1.TXT A Tutorial on using the program
RMRBANK2.TXT Instructions on the Optional Modules in ASCII Text Format
RMRBANK3.TXT Advanced Instructions in ASCII Text format
ADVANCED FEATURES
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The Advanced Options Module 1 offers you the following additional functions:
Look Ahead Mode to predict the state of your finances sometime in the future.
Default Transactions for those regular entries.
A æLast Transaction RepeatÆ function
A pull-down page of Account details where you can store such things as Account numbers.
Automatic numbering (for cheques, or in my case registrations !)
A æFindÆ function in the Archive screen.
The Advanced Options Module 2 offers you the following additional functions:
Export and Import function in various formats, including Quicken.
A æPay BillsÆ option, similar to that used in MS Money. (Also needs BANKORD.OVL)
Ability to allocate tax (VAT, GST etc) to transactions.
Pull-down Info windows giving settings for each Group and Account.
CONFIGURATION MODULE
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The Optional Configuration Module allows you to change a large number of the settings within the program. These settings are remembered, so you can remove this module once the program is setup to your liking.
INSTALLATION
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To Install the program, carry out the following actions:
1. Copy RMRBANK.APP to your \APP\ directory.
2. If you wish to load any of the optional modules, generate a Sub-directory \BANK\ under the \APP\ directory, i.e. \APP\BANK\
3. You can then copy any of the optional files to the sub-directory \APP\BANK\ if you wish to use any of the extra facilities.
4. If you want to use the optional Print system, as well as copying the file BANKSPRT.OVL into the \APP\BANK\ Sub-directory, you will need to put the S3APRINT.DYL file into an \OPD\ directory. (Note that this latter file is common to all my programs, so if you are running more than one of them, you will only need one copy of this file)
5. Install RMRBANK.APP using <PSION-I> as described in the Psion manual.
RUNNING THE PROGRAM
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If you fancy a challenge, you can learn everything you need to about the program by playing with it and checking the effect of each MENU selection, as well as the effect of pressing <ENTER>, <DELETE>, <TAB> or <ESC> in each screen. However, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, at least read Part 1 of this set of instructions first. I suggest you then work through the tutorial in Part 2, which will familiarize you with all the basic capabilities of the program. If you do 'fly blind' and get into trouble, please read the rest of this document before asking me to help. The majority of questions I receive could have been answered by reading this document. Those that couldnÆt I have included in the FAQ file.
If you do get a problem, PLEASE read the full instructions. I have yet to be asked a question that wasn't already fully explained in the instructions or the FAQ file !!
All comments, and registrations, still gratefully received.
REGISTRATION
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If you wish to register the program, you can do so by post (snail-mail), or on-line RegNet (credit cards).
If you are using the postal service, please send a cheque (check) for 20 UK pounds or US$30 or 60DM or 30 Euros payable to 'RMR Software' (or the equivalent in 'real money' in your actual currency - no foreign currency cheques please), to one of the following addresses (please include a stamped, self-addresed envelope or an E-Mail address for the reply) :
RMR Software
c/o 6000 Natick Court
Burke, VA 22015
USA
RMR Software
c/o 46 Mortimer Road
Kempston
Bedford
MK42 8RE
ENGLAND
RMR Software
c/o PSIOlogic Versand
Sudentenstrasse 46
D 63571 Gelnhausen
GERMANY
Please note these are the addresses of our 'agents'. Registration codes will be sent out fairly quickly, but if you send a technical query, it will have to be redirected to us, so might take a few weeks to reply. If you have access,we can be reached by E-Mail at support@rmrsoft.com.
If you wish to register using a credit card you can register on the WWW through RegNet, the Registration Network. RegNet can be reached by e-mail: orders@reg.net or on the World Wide Web: http://www.reg.net/ or in the USA by calling 1-800-WWW2REG (1-800-999-2734) or the easiest way is by following the links from our WWW Home page at:
http://www.rmrsoft.com/
This program has been allocated the REGNET Number: 203 and this should be quoted. Again, the notification tends to get to us within 24 hours and we reply within another 24 hrs. (Note that paying by this method will also involve an extra US$5 handling charge)
In each case, we (or our agent) will then send you a personalised registration code to enter (select the option either via the Menu or with <Ctrl+Z>) to remove the 'nag' screens and allow full use of the program. Note that you will NOT need a new copy of the program, all the functionality is already there but just needs 'unlocking' by the registration code. We will also ensure that this code remains forward compatible for future versions of the program so, unlike other programs, we will not be asking for a further fee for an upgrade to the Series 3 version.
IMPORTANT POINTS TO NOTE
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1. The configuration file and registration details are saved in the \OPD\ directory on your default drive, so don't be surprised if you lose that information (and registration) if you delete these files or change the default drive.
2. Please do NOT try changing the name of a Group from the system screen. The title you use for a Group is used for all the data files, not just the one shown under the icon. If you do wish to rename a Group, simply use the 'Save As' file command from within the Program, to save the Group under a new name, change to that new Group, then use the 'Delete Group' command to get rid of the original.
3. I have provided a BACKUP and RESTORE option (<PSION-B> and <PSION-R> in the Accounts screen) to enable you to keep a COMPLETE copy of all your data files somewhere else on the system. Although there have only been 3 recorded cases of complete data loss in S3ABANK, I am not so arrogant as to say that there isn't a 'bug' in there waiting to trap the unwary. Personally I use this option every couple of days, as well as Backing up regularly on a PC. I think the program is safe, but I still wouldn't trust it completely. Basically, if you lose some data and you haven't kept a backup of some description, don't expect any sympathy from me !!
4. To register the program, press <PSION-$> and CAREFULLY enter the code obtainable from me (or my agent) for the registration fee.
5. Important Note for Non-United Kingdom Users: Before starting to enter data, press <PSION-C> and select your country as the Base Currency and the Group Currency. If your country is not shown, jump forward to the 'Currency' part of Part 3 to see how to add your country.
OTHER PROGRAMS FROM RMR
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If you like the look of this program, why not have a look at our other programs. A full list is as follows...
For the EPOC series of machines
S5Bank : A Personal Accounts Suite
RMRTask : An Extended Task (ToDo) Manager.
RMRNotes : A Note Taker/Jotter program
RMRSol : Solitaire card game
RMRUtils : A Utility/Conversion program
RMRZip : A Compression/Archive file
RMRFile : A File Manager program
RMRArt : Artist/Drawing program
RMRBoxx : A logic game
RMRFruit : A fruit machine game
RMRCar : A Company Car Manager
RMRHome : A Home Inventory program.
RMRFuel : A Fuel Consumption Monitor.
RMRContact : An ACT-like Contact Manager
RMRText : A Text/Hex Editor
RMRMonth : A Month view for Agenda
Vactrac5 : A Leave/Vacation tracking program
Some of these are also available in other languages, such as French, German, Spanish, Dutch, Italian etc. See the Home Page for details.
For the Psion S3mx/a/c:
RMRBank : A Personal Accounts Suite
S3ATask : An Extended Task (ToDo) Manager.
S3ADraw : A Drawing/Icon Viewer/Editor.
S3ACollect : A Collection (Records, Books, Stamps etc) Manager.
S3AHome : A Home Inventory program based on the Quicken version.
S3APlan : A Budget Planner based on the Quicken Financial Planner.
S3AFuel : A Fuel Consumption Monitor.
S3AInvest : An Investment Tracking Program.
S3AExpenses : An Expense Account Monitor.
With the exception of S3ATask, these programs are also available for the Siena, and just use the prefix 'SNA' rather than 'S3A' or 'RMR', i.e. SNABank
For the Psion S3 'Classic'
S3Bank : A Personal Accounts package.
These (or later versions) should all be available at the same location where you found this program. If you cannot get them, a disc and Stamped Addressed Envelope to any of the addresses will get you copies of all the programs. (Make sure you specify the platform)
Alternatively, you can always visit our home page on the World-Wide Web, where there are full details of the programs, and news of any upgrades or enhancements or known bugs. Again, the address is:
http://www.rmrsoft.com/
In the future, we intend to leave 'Beta' versions of the next versions of the programs on these sites, as each new enhancement is incorporated. If you don't mind taking the odd risk, that will be a way of continually updating your program.
If you've found this program useful and want to try some other Psion programs, why not try 3-Lib ??
This program is copyright of 'RMR Software Limited'
Please feel free to:
(i) Upload this software to any electronic bulletin board or WWW site.
(ii) Demonstrate the software and its capabilities or
(iii) Give copies to potential users, so that others may have the opportunity to obtain a copy for use in accordance with the licence terms contained in this file.
Notice to users: Carefully read the following legal agreement. Use of the software provided with this agreement (the "software") constitutes your acceptance of these terms. If you do not agree to the terms of this agreement, promptly remove the software together with all copies from your computer. User's use of this Software is conditioned upon compliance by user with the terms of this agreement.
The software is protected by copyright law and international treaty provisions. You acknowledge that no title to the intellectual property in the software is transferred to you. You further acknowledge that title and full ownership rights to the software will remain the exclusive property of RMR Software, and you will not acquire any rights to the software except as expressly set forth in this licence. You agree that any copies of the software will contain the same proprietary notices which appear on and in the software.
Reverse engineering. You agree that you will not attempt to reverse compile, modify, translate, or disassemble the software in whole or in part.
I do not warrant that the software is error free. I disclaim all other warranties with respect to the software, either express or implied, including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement of third party rights.
There is no liability for consequential damages. In no event shall I or my suppliers be liable to you for any consequential, special, incidental or indirect damages of any kind arising out of the delivery, performance or use of the software, even if I have been advised of the possibility of such damages. In no event will my liability for any claim, whether in contract, or any other theory of liability, exceed the licence fee paid by you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Question 1. When I update a Transaction that had 'split categories' the Budget Categories didn't update. Why ?
Answer: Memory limitations. I have enough memory to store one category, so that will be updated if you update or delete the transaction. However, I cannot spare the room to store up to 4 more categories with the split values. Therefore, if you use 'split categories, remember it is a 'once-only' update of the categories. Just as a reminder, the word 'Split' will appear as a reminder if you have Categories selected for the middle column.
Question 2. I keep getting 'No System memory' reports when I have plenty available.
Answer: In fact, the system is complaining that the program is exceeding it's maximum 128K that it is allowed. it has nothing to do with the total system memory, as the program checks that itself before it starts. I have tried to squeeze every last byte out of the system, but in some cases I have tried too hard. To cure it just select 'Cache Size' in the Set Preferences menu and reduce it by 1000 bytes at a time until the problem goes away.
Question 3. I get 'File Not Found' when I try to print using PSIWIN ?
Answer: Try using the built-in applications. If they don't work either you are missing a file called PSIPRINT.DYL which PSIWIN should have put into your \WDR\ directory along with PSIPRINT.WDR. Re-run PSIPRINT Setup to see if that helps, otherwise contact Psion.
Question 4. I can't get the Quicken Export/Import to work ?
Answer: Here's a few pointers:
a. The QIF file is simply a set of instructions in an ASCII text file, so it can be examined with any text editor. So, do an Export from S3ABANK and then compare that with a QIF file from Quicken (or MSMONEY) and see if you can see any difference.
b. If the Import command doesn't recognise your file, make sure it has a QIF extension, and if you still get the <No Files> message then press <TAB> and navigate your way to where the file is stored (normally it defaults to looking in the \BANK\ directory.)
c. Remember you have only 100 transactions/per account before you need to archive some, so if your Quicken account has more than that then do it in a few goes.
d. If you want to use the Quicken Import/Export on a MAC, then when you start up the Psion Link software, from the File menu select the preferences option. Next select the Text files preferences and add .QIF to the list of text files. Then all files exported from S3ABank get uploaded as text files and Quicken can import them correctly. Otherwise QIF exported from S3ABANK files are assumed to be binary files and are given that attribute.
Question 5. Why can't I have more transactions, categories, rooms etc etc...."
Answer: There are two factors which preclude having any more of these parameters:
The first relates to those aspects such as Budget Categories, Rooms, and Accounts, where they are needed in a dialog to select just one. The way the Psion dialog works limits the total length of all the descriptions to 255 characters. Initially, I made it so there were, for example, 25 Budget Categories of a description length of 10 characters. However, this was rather a simplistic approach, as many of the categories, such as 'Car' and 'Gas', were much less than 10 characters. Accordingly, in later versions, I have allowed many more categories and just monitored the length of the descriptions. If the total approaches 255 you are warned that you will have to reduce the length of some existing categories before you enter any more.
The second factor is the usual one of memory. Unlike a PC, where the majority of the memory map is available, in the S3A, each program is limited to 64K for the program and 64K for the data. As the program stands, I suspect I am using 63.9K for the data, as the original program will not run on a S3A until the variable names are compressed. As such, to get the functionality that the program offers I have had to limit some of the data allocations.
This is most noticeable in the Transactions available (100/account). Although this seems rather a small number, it should be perfectly acceptable provided you use the program as it was intended to be used and not try and use it as you would Quicken, which has unlimited storage. The idea is that only those transactions which have not been confirmed by a written statement, and therefore may need changing, are held in the 'live' account. Once a bank/credit card statement has arrived, all the transactions on the statement should be transferred to an archive file, which can be of unlimited size.
The ONLY difference between the 'live' transactions and the archived transactions is that the archived transactions cannot be altered. However, if they have been reconciled against a statement, this should not be necessary.
Therefore, for most bank/credit card accounts the 'live' account should contain only about 1-2 months worth of transactions. Personally I find that 90 transactions is more than sufficient for this purpose. However, if you are having trouble, there is nothing to stop you having 2 accounts to represent your single account, which would then allow you 200 transactions !!.
Hope that explains the main query I have had over the program.
