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AUTOMAXX (tm)
The PC Manager
Version 2.61
(C) COPYRIGHT 1986-1988 by The Computer Enhancement Group
11711 Whittier Road, Mitchellville, MD 20716 (301) 464-8895
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction .......................................... 1
AUTOMAXX Description ................................... 2
Files Belonging to AUTOMAXX ........................... 3
Hardware and Software Requirments ..................... 3
What AUTOMAXX Does .................................... 4
The Menu System ......................................... 5
Getting Started ....................................... 7
Menu Characteristics .................................. 8
Shell Characteristics ................................. 11
AUTOMAXX Environment .................................. 12
Parameters ............................................ 13
The DOS Shell ......................................... 14
DOS Utilities ......................................... 18
Custom Installation ................................... 22
Error Messages ........................................ 23
Tips, Questions & Answers ............................. 25
Problems .............................................. 27
Ordering Information .................................. 28
AUTOMAXX License ...................................... 29
Order Form ............................................ 30
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 1
INTRODUCTION
AUTOMAXX v2.61 and all previous versions are copyright
(c) 1986-1988 by The Computer Enhancement Group. The
software was written in the C language with extensive assembler
routines for optimal speed. We used versions 4.0 of the
Microsoft C compiler and Macro Assembler. This software was
not developed free, it is the result of many hours devoted to
writing handcrafted C and assember routines and linking them
together to make software that allows you to get maximum
performance from your computer with a minimum of effort. We
have purposely not disabled any features of AUTOMAXX to enable
you to fully test drive the software.
This marks the second annual posting of AUTOMAXX to the
BBS systems. The first release was version 2.36 released in
January, 1987. Since then we have received overwhelming
support from users all over the world in the form of license
fees. We owe the best features in AUTOMAXX to suggestions
from the users, and we expect much more dynamic exchange to
result from this version. Between releases to the BBS
systems we are continually making incremental improvements to
the software which are passed on to each person, corporation,
governmental agency, or business that licenses the software
from us.
We wish to thank all the companies and individuals who
have generously supported the development of AUTOMAXX. The
shareware mechanism of software marketing really does work.
As we enter 1988 the latest advances in personal computers
offers us all tremendous computing power. We wish you all
the best in the new year.
January 2, 1988
The Computer Enhancement Group
11711 Whittier Rd.
Mitchellville, MD 20716
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 1A
LICENSE INFORMATION
You are granted a limited license to use AUTOMAXX and install
it on more than one computer for a 30 day period for the sole purpose
of evaluating the software for its suitability to your needs. Use
of the software beyond this period requires that a license fee be
paid; use of non-registered copies of AUTOMAXX beyond this period
by any person, corporation, governmental agency or other business
entity is STRICTLY FORBIDDEN.
Site licenses are available. See the order form in the back of this
manual for more details. Registered users receive a Custom Install
program for customizing the AUTOMAXX color screens and other features,
the latest version of the program, and a printed documentation book.
Upon registration the licensee is granted a limited license to use
AUTOMAXX on the number of computers allowable according to the license
fee paid. See the license information section for more information
regarding license fees and limitations.
Operators of electronic bulletin board systems may post the current
BBS version of AUTOMAXX (AMAXX261.ARC) for downloading by their users
subject to the following conditions:
o You may NOT modify the program or charge a fee for copying or
distributing the program.
o AUTOMAXX may NOT be distributed in conjunction with any other
product unless written permission is granted by The Computer
Enhancement Group.
Distributors of public domain or user supported software may distribute
copies of AUTOMAXX (BBS version) subject to the above conditions and only
after obtaining written permission from The Computer Enhancement Group.
Such permission usually is granted; please write for details.
All licensing fees for the use of this program will be appreciated,
and should be sent to:
William P. Smith
The Computer Enhancement Group
P.O. Box 70348
Washington, D.C. 20024-0348
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 2
AUTOMAXX DESCRIPTION
The program AUTOMAXX will manage your computer with a powerful
DOS shell and a simple system of menus which you create yourself.
AUTOMAXX is both an application manager and a full featured File
Manager and DOS Shell. This program was built for SPEED and ease
of use! AUTOMAXX makes the computer work hard, not you.
Complete Fixed Disk Manager
DISPLAYS all files & directories
RENAMES files & directories
CREATES & Removes directories
QUICK file UNERASE
UNREMOVES directories
EDITS file Attribute, date, and time stamp
POINT & SHOOT feature for running programs in Dos Shell
LINKS with any editor to view/edit files
LINKS with ARC compatible programs for file management
FAST mass delete, copy, and move facility
TREE display for disk access and directory management
WHEREIS feature to find files fast anywhere on disk
shows file time, date, size and full path
INCREMENTAL SEARCH within files display
SUPER fast file sorts
name, ext, date&time, size, attribute
ascending or descending
unsort for original DOS order
PRINTER setup for any printer
FILE SECURITY encryption/decryption
DOS GATEWAY and return
Ability to define many individual menu windows per menu file
Supports Monochrome, Hercules, CGA, EGA, PGA, and VGA adapters
Extensive printer support
Desk top display with Menu Windows
Supports up to 50 menu screens
Written in C with FAST Assembler routines
Intelligent Screen Save feature
Switch between Mono and Color Monitors
CUSTOM Color Installation for color displays
(for registered users)
System Information screen
Current day, date, and time displayed while in menu
Current Directory and Drive displayed
Full featured File Management
Multiple keys perform the same functions for logical
selection
Fast selection of Directory/Drive
Updates available upon registration
POPUP Calendar and Calculator
PASSWORDS
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 3
FILES BELONGING TO AUTOMAXX
AUTOEXEC.BAT <-- Sample autoexec.bat
AUTOMAXX.EXE <-- AUTOMAXX program
AUTOMAXX.DAT <-- Sample Menu Data file
AUTOMAXX.DOC <-- Documentation
LICENSE.DOC <-- AUTOMAXX license
AUTOMAXX.PDF <-- Default Printer Setup file
EPSON-FX.PDF <-- Epson FX printer setup file
EPSON-MX.PDF <-- " MX "
GEMINI-X.PDF <-- Gemini "
HP-LASER.PDF <-- HP-Laser "
OKIDATA.PDF <-- Okidata "
INSTALL.HLP <-- Install help file
INSTALL.BAT <-- Install for drive C
MENU.BAT <-- sample menu.bat
UPDATE.BAT <-- Update for latest version
XDIR.EXE <-- Extended directory program
INST.COM <-- Custom Install program
(registered users only)
CALC.COM <-- pop-up Calculator
(registered users only)
________________________
HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
These are the minimum requirements of AUTOMAXX:
* Compatible machine or (PC,XT,AT,PC Jr.,Portable)
* DOS 2.0 and up
* Minimum of 256KB of free memory
* Monochrome, Hercules, CGA, EGA, PGA, or VGA adapter
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 4
WHAT AUTOMAXX DOES
AUTOMAXX is a complete PC Manager, that is, it provides an
extremely powerful DOS system interface that gives the user access
to all DOS commands through single keystrokes that unleash the
powerful facilities of AUTOMAXX for file and directory management,
quickly finding files, rapid and effortless manuevering around
the disk and all the other DOS chores. AUTOMAXX also provides a
simple and efficient menu system to run your applications.
The menu system requires that you create a data file called
AUTOMAXX.DAT that contains the DOS commands needed to run your
applications. The sample.dat file supplied with the package is
self documenting and can be easily customized to manage the
applications on your particular computer. If you don't already
have an AUTOMAXX.DAT file you can rename the sample.dat and use
it, then later customize the DAT file to your particular needs.
AUTOMAXX provides the user with easy to read and stunningly
colored menu windows on a desk top display. Each window
contains options from which to choose. When an option is
selected AUTOMAXX automatically executes the commands required
to run that option for the user. AUTOMAXX 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 commands required to carry out each of these
menu options. In addition, any DOS command, application
program, or user program can be executed interactively from
within the AUTOMAXX shell. AUTOMAXX provides an extremely
powerful and versatile DOS shell to take care of all the file
management chores, including a QUICK UNERASE and file finder.
AUTOMAXX uses the point and shoot facility for quick execution
of programs and editing of text files. Any text file can be
read/edited interactively within AUTOMAXX by linking to your
favorite editor to the View option. The file manager is able to
use an ARC compatible utility for fast file compression
facilities.
AUTOMAXX also provides a pop-up calendar and calculator
that can be invoked at any time within the program. Each one is
a full featured option that is available to registered users.
Also available is an install program to customize the screen
colors as well as fine tune other features of the program.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 5
HOW AUTOMAXX MENU SYSTEM WORKS
The menu system consists of a collection of DOS
commands that you would normally enter at the DOS prompt to run
a program or perform any DOS function to manage the applications
and files on your PC.
The difference is that with AUTOMAXX you only enter these DOS
commands once into the AUTOMAXX.DAT file. AUTOMAXX presents the
user with application WINDOWs from which the user selects options
by pressing a single key. The user may quickly page from window to
window.
All that is required to create a DAT file for your system is
a general knowledge of DOS and a text editor. The SAMPLE.DAT
file is self documenting dat file that contains all the information
needed to create your own menus. All you must know is that the
leading character of each line in the DAT file determines how
AUTOMAXX will use the line to build the menus. These special
characters are {%,*,+,>,;,$,&} with respective functions as listed
below:
%Menu title
*Menu option description
+DOS command
>Title of Menu to display
?Password
;Comment
&input parameter
$load auxiliary dat dile
These leading characters may be preceeded by spaces or tabs to
improve the readability of the dat file.
The percent (%) character preceeds a menu title. The asterisk (*)
character preceeds the name of a menu option. The plus sign (+)
preceeds a DOS command. The greater-than (>) character preceeds a
string which will be compared to all menu titles; if a match is
found that menu will be displayed. This will allow the creation
of nested menus, i.e., menus whose options are other menus -- see
the sample.dat file for examples. The (?) character preceeds a
password needed to continue the menu option. If the correct password
is not inputted by the user, the option will not be processed and
the user is returned to the menu. The semicolon (;) preceeds a
comment line which tells AUTOMAXX not to process this line. The (&)
character preceeds a text prompt requesting user input. Successive
input strings can be used like batch file parameters &1, &2, ...
to build batch files. The ($) character loads an auxiliary dat
file which is primarily for a network environment where each
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 6
user's automaxx.dat file must contain a common set of commands
that reside in a master file, say master.net. When AUTOMAXX is
loading automaxx.dat it will load auxiliary dat files whenever
it encounters the '$' as a leading character of a line. Please
review the SAMPLE.DAT file for an example of these features.
Note: The maximum length for each line preceeded by '%', '*',
and '>' is 50 characters, otherwise the maximum length of a line
is 128 characters, the limit imposed the DOS.
The maximum number of menus that can be defined by the menu data
file is probably more than any any user will require.
There is a maximum number of eight options per menu. Because the
number of DOS commands that can be defined for an individual option
may vary, it is difficult to set a maximum limit on the number of
menu windows in one data file. Program storage limits the size of
AUTOMAXX.DAT to 16k of characters excluding the cr,lf pairs, probably
enough for 50 menu windows.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 7
GETTING STARTED
AUTOMAXX comes setup to run from fixed disk C. To run it
on a drive other than C, SUBSTITUTE that drive letter in the
following instructions, then follow the directions in the
sections, ENVIRONMENT and PARAMETERS.
To run AUTOMAXX from drive C take the following steps:
1. Install the following files on the root directory of
drive C:
MENU.BAT
AUTOMAXX.EXE
AUTOMAXX.DAT
XDIR.EXE (optional)
AUTOMAXX.PDF (optional)
YOUR EDITOR (optional)
CALC.COM (optional)
Note: If the AUTOMAXX.DAT file does not exist you can rename
the SAMPLE.DAT file to AUTOMAXX.DAT and use it.
2. Put C:\ in the DOS path command so that DOS can find
MENU.BAT, AUTOMAXX.EXE, and AUTOTEMP.BAT. The last file
is created by AUTOMAXX in the environment C:\ when a menu
option is selected.
3. From the DOS prompt, enter the following command: MENU
You can enter this command to start AUTOMAXX from any drive,
or subdirctory because the path will enable DOS to find
menu.bat.
4. The menu screen should then appear, ready for you to choose
an option. These menu options are purely for example. Later
at your convenience edit the file AUTOMAXX.DAT with your
text editor to customize the menus and options to your system.
There is room for many more menus in the DAT file, so don't
hesitate to add menus.
5. To have AUTOMAXX begin at boot-up make sure MENU is the last
command in your autoexec.bat file.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 8
MENU CHARACTERISTICS
The menu options or menu items can be selected in various
ways. For help ctrl-F1 can be pressed to explain the function of
these keys at any time. Press <alt>Q at any time to quit AUTOMAXX.
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, or the
space bar. A menu option can also be selected by using a number key
on the top row corresponding to the number value of that menu option.
If more than one menu has been defined, the user can change to the
other menus by pressing the left and right arrow cursor keys or the
PgUp and PgDn keys.
An automatic screen blanking feature exists such that if the keyboard
has not been touched for more than three minutes while AUTOMAXX is
running the screen will be turned off until the user presses any
key on the keyboard. The blanking feature is active only while
AUTOMAXX is running; the feature is NOT available when AUTOMAXX is
terminated by exiting to DOS, or when a menu option was selected, or
when AUTOMAXX has executed a child process.
Valid keys while in the AUTOMAXX MENU System:
^F1 Help for Menu screen
<alt>Q Quit AUTOMAXX
/,B,C,F,L,M,R,S,W,X Command selection
Up arrow Move arrow pointer up
Down arrow, space Move arrow pointer down
<return> Select option being
pointed to
<alt>C Calculator
<alt>L caLendar
<alt>R Rebuild tree
<alt>X extended directory
1..8 Select option by number
F1..F8 Select option by function key
PgDn,right arrow,F10 Go to next menu
PgUp,left arrow, F9 Go to previous menu
Home First Menu
End Last Menu
Available commands while in the AUTOMAXX MENU System:
BW/CO Change colors on color display
ChDir Change Directory
Files Complete File Management
Logged Drive Change Drive
Monitors Switch between Mono and CGA screens
Register Display Copyright & License Info.
Sysinf System Information
eXecute execute command line
Whereis file finder
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 9
Any of the MENU commands may be accessed by pressing the upper case letter
of that command, or by pressing the / key and then selecting a command with
cursor keys and pressing the return key. The help line at the bottom of
screen describes the function of each command. The / key is best for new
users because of this help feature. Experienced users will select the
commands with the first letter method.
BW/CO This feature is a toggle between the Black&White mode and the
color mode (the colors in the color mode are set by the color
install program). This mode is initially set according to the
command line parameters used to call AUTOMAXX in menu.bat. If
menu.bat contains the line 'AUTOMAXX C:\ N' the mode is set to
BW, while the line 'AUTOMAXX C:\ Y' would set the mode to CO.
Press <B> to invoke this toggle.
ChDir Press <C> to select this feature.This feature displays a
full featured tree for maneuvering around the disk. Select
destination by using cursor keys or press first letter of
destination subdirectory, then press <return> to confirm.
Other key functions are <ESC> to leave the tree without
changing directory, ^M to make a directory, and ^R to
remove a directory. Normally you will perform all
directory maintenance (making and removing directories)
from within the tree feature, but occasionally the disk
directory structure will be changed outside of AUTOMAXX,
such as when you install other software on your disk. In
this case use the tree rebuild option by pressing <alt>R.
This will tell AUTOMAXX to rebuild the tree the next time
it is accessed.
Files Press <F> to enter the file manager and DOS shell. Please refer
to the description of features in the DOS Shell section.
Logged This feature allows you to change to another logical drive
in the system. Press <L> to invoke this feature.
Monitors This feature allows the MONO and CGA screens to be swapped.
That is, if the IBM monochrome screen is in use, pressing
<M> will blank the monochrome screen and send all video output
to the CGA screen. Pressing <M> again would blank the CGA
screen and send all video output to the monochrome screen. This
feature should NOT be used when either of the EGA or Hercules
boards are present. A system crash may result if this feature
is invoked when either of these boards is present; it is
doubtful that any damage would be done however.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 10
Register Press <R> to display the copyright screen and software licensing
information. The discounts available for licensing multiple
copies of the software are shown. For more information consult
the documentation.
Sysinf This feature provides information about the computer system
such as the operating system in use, the ROM BIOS creation date,
the microprocessor type, available/total kilobytes of system
memory, available/total kilobytes of expanded memory, ports,
logical drives, and presence of the math coprocessor. Press <S>
to invoke this feature.
Whereis Press <W> or <alt>W to invoke the file finder.
eXecute This feature presents the user with a command line prompt at
which any executable command may be entered, i.e., a DOS
command, a user program, a bat file, etc. AUTOMAXX stays
resident while the command is executed so that you are
returned instantly to AUTOMAXX when execution terminates.
Press <X> to invoke this feature.
Note: press <alt>D for a DOS gateway if you need to perform
several DOS commands (see description in the DOS Shell).
<alt> This menu of commands are omnipresent because they are
available at any time within AUTOMAXX. Press and hold down
<alt> to bring up the menu, then press the corresponding
letter to invoke one of the following commands:
----------------------------
| <alt> Commands |
|--------------------------|
| |
| <C>alculator |
| <D>os gateway |
| ca<L>endar |
| <R>ebuild tree |
| <W>here is file finder |
| e<X>tended Dir |
| <Q>uit automaxx |
| |
----------------------------
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 11
SHELL CHARACTERISTICS
The DOS SHELL features is accessed from the files command of
the menu system.
Valid keys while in the AUTOMAXX SHELL:
A Archive tagged files
using ARC.EXE
C Change directory / access tree
D File hex Dump - two modes
<Del> erase tagged files
E encrypt/decrypt file
F alter file search mask
M Move tagged files
L change Logged drive
N Name search
O cOpy tagged files
P Print file
R Rename file or directory
S Sort files
T Tag options
space bar tag individual file
^right arrow tag sequential files forward
^left arrow tag sequential files backward
cursor keys display directory of files
U Quick file unerase, directory unremove
V View text file
X eXecute command line
^A Attributes
^M,^R Make, Remove directory from tree
^U File attribute, date, time editor
<return> run executable file
<alt> press to select from alt commands menu
Esc return to menu system
or abort commands
F1..F10 exec links menu
<alt>C pop-up Calculator
<alt>D temporary Dos gateway
<alt>L pop-up caLendar
<alt>R Rebuild tree
<alt>W Where is file on logical drive
<alt>X run eXtended directory manager
<alt>Q Quit AUTOMAXX
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 12
AUTOMAXX ENVIRONMENT
This environment is a path of the type 'C:\' that AUTOMAXX uses
to find the files it uses: These are AUTOMAXX.DAT, AUTOTEMP.BAT,
and optionally AUTOMAXX.PDF. This environment string must be
specified in a command line of MENU.BAT and all AUTOMAXX files
should be stored there. Also the path statement in autoexec.bat
must specify this as one of the paths DOS will use. For example,
an AUTOEXEC.BAT good for fixed disk systems with AUTOMAXX installed
on the root directory of drive C: could be
+---------------------------+
|ECHO OFF | <- Don't display commands
|PROMPT $P$G | <- Prompt to show present sub-directory
|PATH=C:\ | <- Path to root directory of drive C:
|MENU | <- Execute AUTOMAXX batch file
+---------------------------+
Simply stated another way: If you want to run AUTOMAXX on drive
D: then put all of the AUTOMAXX files on the root directory of
drive D:, make sure your autoexec.bat has path=D:\ in it, and
start up put the line AUTOMAXX D:\ {Y,N} <path\editor> in menu.bat.
I have found using AUTOMAXX on a RAM disk, say Drive D:, to be the
best for fastest operation. Those who want to install AUTOMAXX on
a subdirectory of drive C, MYDIR for example, would use the line
AUTOMAXX C:\MYDIR {Y,N} <path\editor>
and place all files there with a path to C:\MYDIR. One could of
install AUTOMAXX on a subdirectory of any other drive. Please read the
next section on parameters for more information if you are confused.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 13
***** PARAMETERS *****
AUTOMAXX can be called with command line parameters. For
example to define the AUTOMAXX environment as the root directory
of drive C: and to turn color on you could use a MENU.BAT such as
+--------------------------------+
| Echo Off |
| AUTOMAXX C:\ Y PATH\EDITOR |
| AUTOTEMP |
+--------------------------------+
The first parameter is the AUTOMAXX environment, the path that
AUTOMAXX will use to write and read the AUTOTEMP.BAT file and to read the
AUTOMAXX.DAT file. The space is used as a parameter separator. The next
parameter, the B&W switch for color monitors, is specified as
either Y or N. This parameter will be ignored (but still must be used)
when the IBM monochrome or Hercules adapter or equivalent is being used.
Those using composite monitors or compaqs would want to use
AUTOMAXX C:\ N C:\DOC\NE.COM
instead. The third parameter is optional. This parameter is the full
pathname of your editor that you wish to link up with AUTOMAXX. Here
for example I we have specified an editor named 'ne.com' which resides
in the DOC subdirectory of drive C. This is only an example, you
would use the path-name of your editor. AUTOMAXX will automatically
load it to view files within the file manager. For example,
AUTOMAXX C:\ Y D:\ED.EXE
would load an editor named 'ed.exe' from the root directory of drive D
to View the selected file. The editor is then used to its full
capabilities.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 14
INTRODUCTION TO THE DOS SHELL
The Filer option contains the commands that comprise a very
powerful DOS Shell. When this option is selected a sorted
list of all files on the current directory appears, the total
number of files and the total bytes free on the drive are
displayed. The file name, extension, date&time, and size are
displayed for each file. You may then sort on name, extension,
date/time, or file size in ascending or descending order. The
PgUp, PgDn, Home, End, up-arrow, and down-arrow keys will allow
you to page thru the files. The file marker on the screen
points to the current file. A range of DOS options may be
selected :
Arc Press <A> to arc the tagged files using an ARC.EXE
compatible program. The arc program must be named
ARC because this name is coded into AUTOMAXX. To
the prompt '>ARC ' the user could for example type
'A MY' to create the arc file MY.ARC containing the
tagged files.
[Note: Press Esc if you desire to abort at the command line.]
All of the command line arguments for ARC.EXE are supported.
You could type 'A MY *.*' without tagging any files and
have all files in the current directory arced in MY.ARC.
Typing 'l util' would list the files contained in the
existing arc file util.arc, etc.
Bak Press <B> to invoke the backup feature to make a copy of the
hilited file within the current directory. A different name
must be used or the error message 'a file cannot be copied
onto itself' will be given. You are prompted for the file
name.
cOpy The tagged files are copied to the drive or subdirectory
specified. Use the cursor keys to select the target
subdirectory and confirm with a return; the selection
of a subdirectory is achieved in the same manner as
Chdir. Directories cannot be copied; a beep will be
sounded.
Dump Press <D> to display a hex dump of the hilited file. Press
<return> to toggle between two display modes. Press <Esc>
to quit.
<Del> The <Del> key activates this option. The tagged files
are erased if you confirm with 'Y'. Only read/write
files can be deleted.
Encry Press <E> key to encrypt/decrypt the tagged file(s). This
option will encrypt each of the tagged file(s) using the
key you input at the prompt "Enter key>". The key is a
phrase of up to 56 characters that can be entered from the
keyboard, for example, "yellow rose of Texas" or anything
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 15
else you can dream up. The encryption algorithm used is
both fast and provides a high level of security. Encrypting
a file(s) twice with the same key restores the file(s) to its
original state, so the encryption algorithm can be used for
both encryption and decryption. A typical use for this
feature is when you have one or more confidential files on
disk whose contents must remain secure from the eyes of all
other persons. First, tag the file(s) you want to encrypt then
press <E> and enter a key that will be used to encrypt the
file(s). That same key is used later to decrypt the file(s)
by encrypting them again with the that key. DO NOT FORGET
THE KEY because THAT KEY and ONLY THAT KEY can be used to
decrypt the file(s). After you encrypt file(s) you may
want to make them READ ONLY to prevent them from being
encrypted again with a different key. The encrypt feature
works only on files with READ/WRITE status.
Filter Press <F> to alter the file mask which will be used for
file searches. The Filter option then prompts for the mask.
All DOS masks are supported. The files will then be listed
that satisfy the mask. Note that all subsequent file
management will use this mask until another one is specified
with the Filter option. The default mask at start-up is *.*.
To have the file manager display, for example, only EXE files
you would input the mask *.exe. All DOS wild-card characters
are allowed in a mask specification.
(1) If you specify a mask, say '*.exe', and you have no
'EXE' files on the currrent directory then "no files matching
current mask" message will appear. This may alarm some users
that think all of their files have disappeared. All subsequent
use of the File manager will use this mask until it is changed
with the 'Filter' option.
(2) If a mask is specified that lists files in
a directory other than the current one, the move, copy and
erase features will become confused because they expect the
tagged files to be in the current directory. Caution is
therefore advised when using masks that search for files not
in the current directory.
Move Press <M> to move the tagged files to the selected subdirectory
on the current drive. Files with the system, hidden, or
directory attributes set cannot be moved, a beep will be
sounded instead.
Name Press <N> to quickly locate file(s) within the files
display. This is an incremental search facility, that is,
it searches after each character input and waits for the
next input. The prompt 'Name search _' appears at which
you enter a character at a time. The file search will
begin after each character input; a matching file will be
hilited or a beep will be sounded indicating no match to
the string. If a match is found you may press <space> for
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 16
next match, or enter the next character to initiate another
search for the expanded string. Press <return> or the
arrow keys to reset.
Print The <P>rint menu is displayed. This option will allow you to
access the full range of features that today's printers
provide. If the file is a text file it can be sent to the
printer device. The printer can be set-up using the options
in the print menu that is loaded automatically if the file
AUTOMAXX.PDF, is in the environment. The setup file is
a text file that contains printer setup options, each
followed by the printer control codes for that option.
You may create printer setup files for any printer.
Included are printer setup files for Okidata, Epson, Gemini,
Citizen, and HP series printers.
The first five function keys provide standard options
common to all printers:
F1 - Begin/resume Print F2 - Suspend Print
F3 - Cancel Print F4 - Reset to power-up
F5 - Load Setup File
These five commands will always be available, so your setup
files need never contain commands for them; the only
exception would be for a printer that requires special
RESET control codes such as the HP Laserjet. The F5 key
prompts you for the name of a setup file which must be in
the AUTOMAXX environment; the extension PDF need not
be entered. The setup file will be loaded and the new
menus will be displayed. You should name your most
frequently used setup file AUTOMAXX.PDF so that it will
automatically be loaded when the printer option is selected.
If AUTOMAXX.PDF, or a requested PDF file, is not in the
environment you will here a beep when the printer option is
selected and the message "could not open file" will appear.
The cursor keys are used to select a file to print. When
the appropriate printer control commands have been sent to
the printer by pressing the function keys, pressing F1 will
send the file to the printer. You may interrupt print at
any time by pressing F2-suspend print and then send the
printer other set up codes, then press F1 to resume
printing. The other control features are:
<P>age length - set number of lines per page
<L>eft margin - set left margin
<T>ab width - set spaces for expanding tabs
<D>evice - switch parallel printers
The page length parameter will control the number of
printed lines on the page before the page is ejected. The
standard matrix printer set to 1/6" line spacing fits 56
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 17
lines per page with a top and bottom margin of five lines.
This configuration can be achieved by setting the page
length parameter to 56. The page length feature is useful
for printers that do not automatically skip over the
perforation, or to force the printer to print less than
its default lines per page. Automaxx sets the page length
parameter to 0 by default which effectively disables this
option, that is, the page will be ejected when the number
of lines that the printer can physically write on the page
is reached, or when a form feed character is encountered in
the file being printed.
The tab width parameter controls the number of spaces to
which the tabs will be expanded. The default width is 8,
but you can specify any width of one or more spaces.
The printer output can be sent to any of the parallel
printers ports attached to the system. Currently, DOS
recognizes up to 3 parallel ports (Lpt1, Lpt2, and Lpt3).
The <D>evice selection will allow the output to be directed
to any one of the parallel printers available to the system.
Ren Press <R> to rename a file or directory.
Sort Press <S> to invoke the sort option for sorting files by
name/ext, ext/name, date/time, size, or attribute keys in
ascending or descending order. The unsort key will display
the files in the original DOS order.
Tag Press <T> to invoke a menu of tag methods, or press the
<space> bar to tag or untag single files, or press <ctrl>
right-arrow key or <ctrl> left-arrow key to rapidly tag
(untag) consecutive files. The Copy, Erase, Move, and util
options require files to be tagged.
View Press <V> to display a text file for browsing or editing.
The filename will be passed to the editor you have defined
in menu.bat. If the file has arc extension the filename will
be passed to an ARC.EXE compatible program for a verbose
listing. You may configure AUTOMAXX to load your word
processor automatically for editing and browsing text files.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 18
DOS UTILITIES
^Attr Press ^A to toggle the files attribute/time display. This acts
as a toggle to show either the file's time of creation or its
attributes.
Chdir Press <C> to change directories or to select a destination
directory for the cOpy or Move operations. Please see
the description of this command in the menu system section.
Log Press <L> to change drives. The files residing on the default
directory of the selected drive are displayed in the sort
order currently selected for files.
Undel This utility unerases files and unremoves directories. Press
<U> to invoke it. The list of erased files and removed
directories in the current directory will be displayed. The
unerase is a QUICK unerase. To select a file put the file
marker on it and press <return> then input the first letter
of the file name. Repeat this selection for as many files
(directories) you desire to unerase, then press <ESC> to quit.
To complete the unerase of all files (directories) selected
answer <Y> to confirm or <N> to quit and ignore the changes.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 19
^MkDir This feature is accessed when the tree is displayed. To
invoke the tree press C then hilite the directory into
which the new subdirectory will exist then press ^M. You
will be prompted for a subdirectory name. An error will be
returned if the path already exists, or if an invalid
name has been given.
^RmDir This feature is accessed when the tree is displayed. Press
^R to remove the directory hilited by the file pointer. An
'access denied' error message means that the directory
contains files and/or subdirectories which must be erased
before the directory can be removed. A 'cannot remove
current directory' error message will be displayed if you
attempt to remove current directory; remedy is to change
directory then access the tree again to remove that
directory.
^Util Press ^U to access the file utility menu for editing the
the attribute, date, and time stamps for the tagged files.
In the utility menu select the first letter of the desired
option. Press <A> to enter a four character string consisting
of the characters 'rhsa.'; for example, to make the files
read-only, hidden, and set the archive bit, you would enter the
string 'rh.a'. A beep will be sounded when the input is
complete. To change the date enter <D> and input a string
'mm-dd-yy'. To change the time enter <T> and input a time
string in the format 'hh:mm:ss'. To quit the utility and
record the changes on disk you must press the <ctrl> <return>
keys simultaneously. To quit and ignore the changes just
press <ESC>.
Where Press <alt>W to invoke the file finder. For example to find
all occurrences of the file named 'ed.exe' on the current disk
you would input this at the prompt. All directories of the
disk will be searched and all paths to this file will be
listed. You may use DOS wild card searches too, i.e.,
'*.com' would list all paths to files with 'com' extension.
eXec Press X to access a command line prompt to which any DOS
executable command may be entered. The command will then be
passed to a copy of the command interpreter and executed by
DOS. This feature presents the user with a command line prompt
to which any executable command may be entered, i.e., a DOS
command, a user program, a bat file, etc. AUTOMAXX stays
resident while the command is executed so that you are returned
instantly to AUTOMAXX when execution terminates.
Note: <alt>D is a DOS gateway to the command processor, too.
If you need to perform several DOS commands, this gateway may
be best. When done, be sure to type exit and press <return>
to pass back thru the gateway to AUTOMAXX.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 20
<return> This is the point and shoot feature of AUTOMAXX. Pressing
<return> produces a result dependent on the type of file
which is currently hilited:
'EXE', 'COM' and 'BAT' files --
LOADS AND EXECUTE the file as a child process of AUTOMAXX.
The file must be an executable file (one with 'exe', 'com',
or 'bat' extension). The command line will prompt you for
optional parameter input for executable files. Press Esc
if you desire to abort at the command line.
'BAS' files --
Runs a basic program (one with 'bas' extension). The basic
interpreter, BASICA, will be automatically loaded to run
a basic program. A path must be set so the basic interpreter
can be found if it is not in ROM.
When the process terminates you will be returned to the same
place you were when you left AUTOMAXX.
'Directory' --
The hilited directory will become the current directory. The
files will be displayed. This is another way to change
directories.
<Esc> Press this key to leave the Files option and return to the
main menu of AUTOMAXX.
<alt> This menu of commands are omnipresent because they are
available at any time within AUTOMAXX. Press and hold down
<alt> to bring up the menu, then press the corresponding
letter to invoke one of the following commands:
----------------------------
| <alt> Commands |
|--------------------------|
| |
| <C>alculator |
| <D>os gateway |
| ca<L>endar |
| <R>ebuild tree |
| <W>here is file finder |
| e<X>tended Dir |
| <Q>uit automaxx |
| |
----------------------------
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 21
<alt>D This loads a copy of the COMMAND interpreter and drops you
into DOS. To return to AUTOMAXX you must type 'EXIT'. You
will then return to AUTOMAXX at the place you were when you
left. Note: When a copy of DOS is loaded AUTOMAXX is still in
memory taking up about 120k, so this should be used for only
temporary access of DOS facilities. To recover all of available
memory for large applications you should run the application
from the menu, i.e., make it a menu option via AUTOMAXX.DAT.
<alt>R erases the <drive>:\_tree.dat file which holds the tree
data that AUTOMAXX writes to disk and subsequently uses to
quickly construct the tree. This erasing
makes AUTOMAXX read the disk to construct a new tree and
write a new _tree.dat file to disk. The way the tree works
is that AUTOMAXX will first look for the _tree.dat file
and use it to draw the tree, if it does not exist on the
current drive, the tree will be rebuilt. The <alt>R feature
forces a new tree to be built which is usually unnecessary
unless you have removed or added directories outside of
AUTOMAXX.
<alt>W invokes the where is file finder. For example to find
all occurrences of the file named 'ed.exe' on the current disk
you would input this at the prompt. All directories of the
disk will be searched and all paths to this file will be
listed. You may use DOS wild card searches too, i.e.,
'*.com' would list all paths to files with 'com' extension.
<alt>X invokes the extended directory program, XDIR.EXE v1A, created
by the Computer Enhancement Group for AUTOMAXX. It can be
also used as a stand alone program. This program presents the
user with a full screen editor that can be used to write a note
about each directory entry. Press <F1> within XDIR for help.
Call XDIR at any time to update or change your notes.
<alt>Q quits AUTOMAXX. Type menu at any time to return to AUTOMAXX.
This is the preferred method of leaving AUTOMAXX. Another
way is the use a 'Dos operating system' choice in the menu.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 22
CUSTOM INSTALLATION
The program INST.COM is supplied to registered users. This
installation program will allow you to customize the following
features of AUTOMAXX:
COLORS The colors on the menu screen can be defined. Some stunning
color displays can be quickly and easily created. The left
and right cursor keys select the foreground color while the
up and down cursor keys select background colors. The
return key confirms the color selection and moves to the
next area of the screen. The blinking white block marks the
currently selected area of the screen. Press F1 to return
to the setup menu where you may save the changes.
SAVE screen delay. You may select the number of minutes delay
for the screen blank feature. AUTOMAXX comes setup with the
delay set to 5 minutes. The delay can be from 1 to 60
minutes. A delay of 60 disables the screen blank, i.e., the
screen will never be blanked.
SCREEN write speed. This feature applies only to CGA displays that
are susceptible to snow on the screen. For these monitors
you may select a slow, fast or fastest screen write speed.
For example, the IBM XT with an IBM CGA adapter will exhibit
considerable snow at the fast settings, and no snow at the
slow setting which uses the ROM BIOS. The fastest speed is
recommended for COMPAQ and EGA displays. The IBM monochrome
and Hercules displays will always operate at the fastest
setting. Remember the speed setting will only be used when
the CGA or EGA adapter is being used, so if you will be
using the monochrome or Hercules adapters you can ignore
this feature.
SORT You may specify the initial sort keys that the file manager
uses to sort files. AUTOMAXX comes with the sort keys set
to the default on name/extension. The choices the install
provides allow all possible sort keys as well as no sort
(files displayed in original order).
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 23
ERROR MESSAGES
The following errors may occur while using AUTOMAXX:
(1) Can't find "AUTOMAXX.DAT" file
This error occurs when the program cannot find or read
that file. To remedy this make sure this file is in the
environment -- see the Parameters & Environment sections.
(2) Undefined line --
This occurs if a line in the automaxx.dat begins with a
character other than %,*,+, or #. Automaxx will warn
you with a beep and list the offending line when the DAT
file is loaded. The undefined line will be ignored and
Automaxx continues. To use a DAT file from another
menu system rename the DAT file to AUTOMAXX.DAT and
then remove the undefined line(s) with a text editor.
You may leave undefined lines in the DAT file but the
beeps may become bothersome.
(3) AUTOMAXX.DAT is too big --
This occurs if the 8192 character limit has been exceeded
by the DAT file. The program loads the DAT file up to this
limit.
(4) Editor not installed --
This means you have not put a path to your editor in MENU.BAT.
See the section on parameters. If you have put an editor path
in menu.bat and you get the error message 'File not found' this
means that the editor is not on the path. Remedy is to put the
correct path in menu.bat.
(5) Cannot remove the current directory --
If you get this error from the tree it means that the
directory you are trying to remove contains files and/or
subdirectories, or is the current directory; DOS will not
allow this. First check to see if this directory contains
files and erase/remove them. Finally, to successfully remove
the directory make sure it is not the current directory (if
so change directory to its parent) then remove the directory.
(6) DOS Errors --
AUTOMAXX will handle all critical and noncritical DOS
errors.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 24
Critical DOS Errors:
A blah sound will be emitted when a Critical DOS error
has occurred. One of the following messages will apply:
--------------------------------
| DOS CRITICAL ERRORS |
|==============================|
| Disk is write-protected |
| Unknown Unit |
| Drive not ready |
| Unknown command |
| Seek error |
| Unknown media type |
| Sector not found |
| Printer out of paper |
| Write fault |
| Read fault |
| General failure |
--------------------------------
Noncritical DOS Errors:
A beep will be emitted when a noncritical DOS error has
occurred. One of the following messages will apply:
--------------------------------
| NONCRITICAL DOS ERRORS |
|==============================|
| Invalid function number |
| File not found |
| Path not found |
| Too many files open |
| Access denied |
| Invalid handle |
| Memory Destroyed |
| Insufficient memory |
| Invalid format |
| Invalid data |
| Invalid drive specified |
| Cannot remove current Dir |
| Not same device |
| No more files |
| I/O error |
--------------------------------
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 25
TIPS, QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
1. When I try to invoke the <P>rint option the message "could
not open file" appears. This occurs because the automaxx.pdf
file was not in the environment. Place the file there.
2. When I try to invoke the Xtended directory or the view option
the screen just blinks. In the case of Xtended directory, it
is because XDIR.EXE was not on the DOS path. Place Xdir.exe
where DOS can find it. In the case of the view option it is
because the full path to your editor was not placed in menu.bat.
Read the section on parameters for more information.
3. When I try to the remove a directory from the treeI get the
message "cannot remove current directory." This directory
may be the current directory (DOS will not allow the current
to be removed); you may need to change to another directory then
access the tree again and press ^R to remove the directory.
You may also get this message if the current directory contains
any files; delete the files and attempt to remove the directory.
4. Is there a way to tag a range of files? You can rapidly
tag or (untag) files sequentially by pressing the <ctrl>
right-arrow or <ctrl> left-arrow keys. The space bar can be
used to tag or untag individual files as usual. A tag menu with
several choices can be invoked by <T>.
5. Can you select a directory by touching the first letter
of its name? To select a directory for the cOpy or Move
operations, or to change directory, you can hilite the desired
path by touching the first letter of that directory's name.
This is much faster than using the cursor keys. The <Home> and
<End> keys also speed selection.
6. If the calculator gives overflow you can retrieve the number by
changing the number of decimal places -- hit D then select 0..9.
7. You can quit AUTOMAXX by pressing <alt>q. This means that you
do not need an 'Exit to DOS' option in your menus.
8. The <Alt> commands menu is available for the omnipresent
features of AUTOMAXX. Press <alt> at any time then select the
desired command. The <alt>X selects the eXtended DIRectory
program "XDIR.EXE" that comes with this version of AUTOMAXX.
There is no help file for XDIR just press F1. The current
version of XDIR is version 1A. Modifications will depend on
your needs. Try it, you'll love it. The calculator pops up
when you press <alt>C. The calendar pops up when you press
<alt>L. Whereis can be accessed by <alt>W.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 26
9. A QUICK file unerase and directory unremover has been added
The function keys have been programmed in the file manager.
The printer definition file structure was changed. The
PRT2PDF.COM is supplied to change the old PRT files to the new
PDF format. The change was made to use text instead of HEX
numbers. Passwords have been added by using the '?' character
in the DAT file (see the SAMPLE.DAT file for an example).
10. A file attribute, date, and time stamp editor feature
was added. The print feature was enhanced to allow page
formatting and port control. The calendar was made internal
and changed to an annual display. The screen blank was redone.
11. File encryption/decryption was added. Use with care.
12. An incremental Name search was added to the file manager for
quickly locating files in the files display. The menu
definition file, AUTOMAXX.DAT was expanded to allow for
parameter input and loading of other DAT files for networks
capability. Leading Tabs and spaces can now be used in the DAT
file to increase readability and give a structured look. (The
semicolon is now used to begin a comment for consistency with
programming languages.) Read the self-documenting sample.dat
file on disk for a summary of the DAT file cababilities.
** 13. The AUTOMAXX program is now AUTOMAXX.EXE; be sure to erase
the old AUTOMAXX.COM before updating (does not apply to new
users). New users run the install program.
14. Installation: If you're an AUTOMAXX user run the program
UPDATE.BAT to install the latest version. If you are a first
time user run the INSTALL program on the program disk, then
later at your leisure read the install procedure in the
AUTOMAXX.DOC file if you desire to install AUTOMAXX on other
drives and or subdirectories please refer to the documentation.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 27
PROBLEMS
If you have problems with AUTOMAXX, please read the manual
first to make sure you understand everything. I have tried
to provide a bug-free product but it is not possible to anticipate
all possible circumstances. If you think you have found a problem,
document it, and communicate it to me for extermination.
Make sure that you note the following information to help me evaluate
the problem:
1. Version of AUTOMAXX used
2. Machine type, memory, monitors, etc.
3. Any application run before AUTOMAXX
4. Operating System used
5. Where and how you obtained AUTOMAXX
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 28
ORDERING INFORMATION
An AUTOMAXX registration licenses you to use the product on a regular
basis. Registration includes:
o A Custom Install program for customizing the AUTOMAXX color
screens and other features.
o The latest version of the program.
o A printed bound reference manual.
o Mailed notification of updates.
o Priority telephone support.
Upon registration the licensee is granted a limited license to use
AUTOMAXX on the number of computers allowable according to the license
fee paid. Users need register only one version of AUTOMAXX;
registration includes licensed use of all upgrades.
To order please call the Computer Enhancement Group at (301) 464-8895
or mail the enclosed order form with your payment.
For orders outside the U.S., please add an additional $5. Payment is
by either an international money order payable in U.S. currency, or by
credit card.
PURCHASE ORDERS accepted for orders of at least $100; quantities less
than $100 must be prepaid.
Maryland residents please add 5% state sales tax.
For commercial site license orders, please enclose a signed copy of
the site license agreement. Sorry, no C.O.D. orders will be accepted.
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 29
AUTOMAXX LICENSE
The use of AUTOMAXX by an individual, a business, corporation, or
government entity is granted under the following terms:
1. Payment of the license fee must be made to The Computer Enhancement
Group. The fee is based on the number of computers on which
AUTOMAXX will be installed, as follows:
1 - 20 copies $35 each
21 - 50 copies $30 each
50 - 99 copies $25 each
100 - 149 copies $20 each
150+ copies $3000 plus $15 each after 150 copoies
2. You may use AUTOMAXX on the number of computers included in the
license fee.
3. You may make archival copies of the program, in its original,
unmodified form, without restriction.
4. You may use future versions of AUTOMAXX under this license. The
latest version is available from The Computer Enhancement Group
for a small service charge.
5. You may NOT modify the program or charge a fee for copying or
distributing the program.
6. AUTOMAXX may not be distributed in conjunction with any other
product unless written permission is granted by The Computer
Enhancement Group.
7. It is your responsibility to make the necessary copies and to
deliver them to the computers on which they will be used.
I agree to abide by the terms and conditions of this license.
_____________________________ __________________________
Signature Date
_____________________________
Name (please print or type)
_____________________________
Title
_____________________________
Company
AUTOMAXX (c) 1986-88 by The Computer Enhancement Group PAGE 30
ORDER FORM
Check which items you wish to purchase:
(_) Noncommercial license for the use of AUTOMAXX.
( $35 includes latest program disk & printed manual)
(_) Commercial license for the use of AUTOMAXX on _____ computers
(see price schedule and terms on preceding page).
Includes latest program disk(s) & printed manual(s).
Total payment: $ _________
Payment by: ( ) Check ( ) MC ( ) Visa
( ) PO# ______________
Credit Card information (if applicable):
Card #: ______________________ Exp. Date: _______________
Signature of cardholder: ________________________________
Specify disk media: (_) 5-1/4" disk
(_) 3-1/2" disk (please add $1 )
Shipping address:
________________________________________________
Name
________________________________________________
Address
________________________________________________
______________________ ________ _____________
City State Zip
Send this completed form with payment to:
William P. Smith
The Computer Enhancement Group
P.O. Box 70348
Washington, D.C. 20024-0348
End of AUTOMAXX Documentation
