Informática Multimedia 1995 April

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QLIB3 - P.C. USER'S GROUP LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM QLIB3 - P.C. USER'S GROUP LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM QLIB3 - P.C. USER'S GROUP LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM FOR dBASE-III PLUS/dBXL COMPILED WITH QUICKSILVER OUTLINE AND NOTES 4th DRAFT - v.2.0 User Manual & Notes - 1988 November 22 This software is distributed as ShareWare User-Supported Software Licensed under the terms and conditions noted herein CREATIVE RESOURCES 773 Somerset Place Concord, CA 94518 (415) 685-6387 COPYRIGHT 1988 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED COPYRIGHT 1988 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED COPYRIGHT 1988 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program FOREWORD. FOREWORD. FOREWORD. _________ _________ _________ The accompanying disk contains the executable files, data and memory variable files and report forms (filename extension .EXE, .DBF, .DBX, .MEM and .FRM, respectively) for QLIB3 - the CREATIVE RESOURCES Software Library/Catalog program, compiled with WordTech's QUICKSILVER Diamond Release dBASE-III Plus/dBXL compiler. Registered users can request a copy of the source code, allowing customization by the user, and access to standard dBASE/dBXL interactive commands. This program came about as a result of general dissatisfaction with the many other existing library catalog programs, which often offer a tremendous amount of power for obtaining file data from floppies to be cataloged, but offer arcane or difficult user operations for anyone not already familiar with the program, or for the occasional user. I am personally not a computer novice, and probably border on the "power user" level, but I have never been able to comfortably use any of the almost dozen cataloging programs I have tried, including those of several user groups. What QLIB3 lacks in raw power, speed, and relatively large file sizes compared to other available programs, it is intended to more than make up in its ease of use, particularly for the only occasional user, such as the typical P.C. club member referring to a listing in the club software library catalog, or for cataloging his/her own diskettes. It is fully menu-driven, with (I hope) easy to understand prompts and status messages as it performs. Version 2.0 improves the menus, adds "light-bar" selection techniques, and adds on-line help for determining the actions of each menu selection. Also added is user-definable screen colors when used on a color graphics-equipped system. Only a minimal knowledge of computers is assumed, and neither experience with other cataloging software or with dBASE-III Plus is necessary. This release can only accommodate importing listings of the root directory of the chosen disk, and does not expand .ARC file listings, as can other available programs. The search and reporting functions are, I believe, superior to the other programs at which I have looked. I am anxious to hear your thoughts on these issues. This sample documentation and outline contains notes on the instructions for booting up the program, and suggestions for use. The sample library data file furnished is TEST1.DBF. NOTE: THE COMPILED VERSION OF THE LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM (QLIB3) WILL RUN "AS-IS" AND NO OTHER SOFTWARE IS NEEDED. THE UNCOMPILED SOURCE CODE VERSIONS REQUIRE THE USE OF dBASE-III Plus, dBXL, OR FOXBASE, WHICH IS NOT INCLUDED HEREWITH. CREATIVE RESOURCES - i - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - i - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - i - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 Registration Form QLIB3 Registration Form QLIB3 Registration Form _____ ____________ ____ _____ ____________ ____ _____ ____________ ____ Please mail with your check or money order for the registration fee. Upon registration, you will be sent the latest version of the program and documentation, including source code (if requested). You will also be advised of future major upgrades. Name:___________________________________________________________ Company:________________________________________________________ Address:________________________________________________________ City:___________________________________________________________ State:_________ Zip:________________________________________ Phone (optional): (_____) ____________(w) (_____) ____________(h) Computer type/name ______________________________________________ No. Floppy Drives ________ Size(s) 5.25 in 3.50 in No. Hard/Fixed Disk Drives ________ Capacity (MB) ________ Operating System/version ____________ Total RAM installed ________ Monitor/video board type _________________________________________ Current Version of QLIB3 being Registered: _____________ What do you like about QLIB3? Please take as many lines as necessary to express your opinion: What don't you like about QLIB3? How could QLIB3 be improved? From what source did you acquire your copy of QLIB3? MAIL TO: CREATIVE RESOURCES - 773 Somerset Place - Concord, CA 94518 CREATIVE RESOURCES - ii - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - ii - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - ii - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program TABLE OF CONTENTS. TABLE OF CONTENTS. TABLE OF CONTENTS. _____ __ _________ _____ __ _________ _____ __ _________ Section Title Pg. Foreword i QLIB3 Registration Form ii 0 Introduction & ShareWare License 0-1 System Requirements 0-5 Getting Started 0-6 Required Files 0-7 Initial Startup 0-8 Warning on the use of Disk Caching Software 0-10 Main Menu 0-14 H - Main Menu Help 0-15 1 QUERY THE LIBRARY LISTING DATA. 1-1 H - On-Line Help for Query 1-2 Category Keys Suggestions 1-3 Navigation Commands - B,E,P,N,S 1-5 R - Retrieve a record 1-6 F - Find/Filter the display 1-6 L - List the file 1-9 2 GENERATE REPORTS OF LIBRARY CONTENTS. 2-1 H - Reports Menu Help 2-2 Reports Filters 2-4 Printed Reports & Printer Set-Up Strings 2-6 3 CREATE/RE-CREATE INDEX FILES. 3-1 4 RESTART WITH A NEW LIBRARY FILE. 4-1 5 INPUT/EDIT LIBRARY LISTING DATA. 5-1 H - On-Line Help for Edit & Query 5-2 A - Add new records 5-3 C - Copy an existing record with changes 5-4 M - Modify/Edit a record 5-5 D - Delete a record 5-6 6 IMPORT NEW FILENAME DATA FROM DISKETTE. 6-1 7 CREATE NEW (EMPTY) LIBRARY/CATALOG DATA FILE. 7-1 8 MERGE TWO EXISTING LIBRARY/CATALOG FILES. 8-1 9 SUGGESTIONS FOR USERS. 9-1 File Size & Speed Considerations 9-1 Screen Dumps & Printer Hang-Ups 9-1 Screen Scolling & Pauses 9-2 CREATIVE RESOURCES - iii - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - iii - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - iii - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program TABLE OF CONTENTS. (cont.) TABLE OF CONTENTS. TABLE OF CONTENTS. _____ __ _________ _____ __ _________ _____ __ _________ Section Title Pg. I INDEX I-1 Appendix A Error Messages A-1 B Data File Structure B-1 C Revision Notes C-1 S Setting Screen Display Colors S-1 CREATIVE RESOURCES - iv - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - iv - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - iv - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program SECTION 0 - INTRODUCTION & SHAREWARE LICENSE. ____________ _ _________ ________ The P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program (QLIB3) is primarily a menu-driven program, which is set up to minimize the errors, and ease querying and reporting of data on any software library/catalog. The "3" is for the data, report form and memory variable file compatibility with dBASE-III Plus and compatibles. The "Q" is for QuickSilver by WordTech Systems, used for compiling the source code into a stand-alone program which does not need a copy of dBASE-III Plus, dBXL or FoxBASE to be run. Hence, QLIB3! This user manual is for the compiled system, and is not furnished with the source code. Additional documentation may be included with the uncompiled version of the library/catalog program, which includes direct references to customization information, as well as a complete source code listing. If you obtained the compiled version from another user or distributor, you can, on request, get a printed copy of the user manual, including customization notes, and a disk with the uncompiled source code when sending in your registration form and fee. Individual users registering copies under a user group or site license may obtain the source code on request, but a printed manual is only available for an additional nominal charge. Upon registration you will be sent the latest version of the program, and will subsequently be advised of future major upgrades, which will be available for a nominal upgrade fee (expected to be $5 to $10). The operation of the compiled and uncompiled software is virtually identical, (minus added features from dBXL/QS) except that the compiled software will load and run significantly faster; however the uncompiled versions allow complete implementation of interactive dBASE-III Plus/dBXL commands, including the infamous "dot" prompt. Most noticeable is the "browse" mode, which is not available in the compiled version. In all other respects the compiled version is superior for speed and ease of use, provided that a dBASE/dBXL command mode is not needed. Both versions of this program use the same dBASE- III/dBXL data file structure, allowing further query and reporting possibilities, outside of QLIB3. Users creating a customized version of these programs from the source code should contact CREATIVE RESOURCES who can furnish a compiled version from their customized software at a low nominal fee (See License, Below). CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Menu selections include new filename data import, library listing data edit and entry, non-edit query of library listings, creation of a new library/catalog file, a variety of reports on library/catalog file contents, merging two existing library files into a new combined file, and a means of restarting the program for a different library/catalog data file with- out the need to exit to the operating system. Also included is the capability for user-defined printer set-up strings, and a simplistic check for adequate disk space prior to actions requiring more space. A minimum of knowledge of computers is assumed. Included in the Getting Started section is a sample run with a _______ _______ furnished sample library/catalog data file. The user is encouraged to follow through the options outlined while sitting in front of his computer terminal, using the sample data file (TEST1.DBF) included, following the text to perform the described operations, using this reference manual as a tutorial. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program ******************* S H A R E W A R E ****************** User-Supported Software If you have received this program from another user and find it of value, your $25 Registration Fee will support continued development. User group and site licenses are also available for a flat fee of $150.00, regardless of the number of users in the user group or at that site. Contact Creative Resources for more information. Registered users will receive the latest version, be advised of updates and future versions, and receive technical support. NOTE: ONLY REGISTERED USERS ARE ENTITLED TO SUPPORT. HELP SUPPORT THE SHAREWARE CONCEPT - REGISTER YOUR COPY !! CREATIVE RESOURCES 773 Somerset Place Concord, CA 94518 (415) 685-6387 Regardless of whether you register or make a contribution, you are encouraged to copy this program as described below. --------------------------------------------- SHAREWARE user-supported software is a bold concept in distributing computer programs, first widely publicized by Andrew Fluegelman with PC-TALK, and is based on two basic principles: First, that the value and utility of software is best assessed by the user on his/her own system. Only after using a program can one really determine whether it serves personal applications, needs, and tastes. Second, that copying of programs should be encouraged, rather than restricted. The ease with which software can be distributed outside traditional commercial channels reflects the strength, rather than the weakness, of electronic information. The user-supported concept: Anyone may request a copy of a user-supported program by sending a blank, formatted disk to the program author together with an addressed, postage-paid return mailer. A copy of the program, with on-disk documentation, will be sent by return mail on the user's disk. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-3 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program The program carries a notice suggesting a registration fee for the program. Registering or making a contribution is voluntary on the part of the user, however, it must be recognized that it is only through registration fees that development costs are defrayed and therefore allow further development. Users who do not register are not rewarding honest efforts or the author, and will discourage further development. Un-registered users will miss out on notices of upgrades, bug fixes, information on other available software that may be of interest, and most importantly, they are not eligible for technical support. Also, any complaints or suggestions for new or revised features will be more readily received from registered users than from un-registered users. If you obtained this software in the compiled form, the contribution will obtain for you the latest version of the program, and (on request) a printed copy of the documentation and a complete source code listing on-disk for the program. A registration form is located elsewhere in this user reference manual, and also in a disk file for easy printing. In addition to providing a means of identifying the users who support this program, it also provides a way to advise the author of any changes or additions desired for future versions. The program may also be ordered by mail for an advance contribution. Regardless of whether a contribution is made, the user is encouraged to copy the program for trial use by others on a private, non-commercial basis. Payment for use is discretionary on the part of each subsequent user, BUT THE COPYRIGHT IS RETAINED BY THE PROGRAM AUTHOR/ORIGINAL DEVELOPER. *** NOTICE: Users of this program are granted a limited license to make copies of this program for trial use by others on a private, non-commercial basis. This limited license does not include -- 1. distributing this program in connection with any other product except with written permission in advance from the author. 2. making the program available for any consideration except a nominal 'disk fee' not to exceed $10.00 3. distributing the program in modified form. Your cooperation will be appreciated. NEWS FLASH !! - Also check with Creative Resources for availability of QCHECK3 - a ShareWare program for completely managing any checking account, for personal and small-to-medium business users. Both compiled and source code versions are available. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-4 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS. ______ _____________ Minimum system (hardware and software) requirements are the same basically as for dBASE-III/dBXL: o IBM-PC or PC-AT Compatible computer system (non-compatible MS-DOS computers need a special version of QLIB3, which will work even if standard dBASE-III will not. Contact Creative Resources for more info.) o 512k bytes of RAM (640 kB or more is Highly Recommended) (up to 64 kB of EMS memory can also be accessed by QLIB3) o PC/MS-DOS 3.1 or later o Two or more floppy disk drives (360kB or greater cap'y) or One or more floppy disk drives and hard (fixed) disk (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED) o 80 x 24 CRT or monitor, monochrome or color o Printer (optional) (recommended) All program (.EXE), memory variable (.MEM), report form (.FRM), ERROR.TXT and the CONFIG.SYS files for the compiled version require about 330kB of disk space. Additional space is used by this documentation file. This compares with about 50kB of disk space needed for the uncompiled versions, however, they require the additional space for dBASE-III Plus or dBXL, for a much higher disk space total (over 600k). Before using them for the first time, it is highly recommended that you make "working" copies of the "distribution" disk of the compiled program files, and put away the original distribution for safekeeping. This is called "backing up" your originals, and is outlined in the "Getting Started" Section, below. The total disk space needed depends on the size of the library/catalog data file(s). It is suggested that for very large files that different data files be created for each year or convenient group of filename listings. This also improves data security, and reduces the potential for loss of large amounts of data if a catastrophic computer system failure occurs. (Of course, we all back-up all our data on a regular basis, so this isn't so important, is it??) Typically, a 500 record library listing file (ie: 500 filenames, descriptions, etc.) requires about 62k of disk space, not counting its index file(s). The following sections outline the initiation and operations of the QLIB3 P.C. user's group library/catalog program. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-5 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-5 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-5 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program GETTING STARTED. GETTING STARTED. GETTING STARTED. _______ ________ _______ ________ _______ ________ The program and its associated files have all been compressed using the PKARC/PKXARC utilities into a self-extracting archive file. HARD DISK USERS: HARD DISK USERS: HARD DISK USERS: ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ______ ____ ____ ______ To extract the contents onto your hard disk, merely copy the contents of this disk into an appropriate directory on your hard disk (using COPY *.* as appropriate), and call up: C:\QLIB3 > QLIB32 -N <ret> C:\QLIB3 > QLIB32 -N <ret> C:\QLIB3 > QLIB32 -N <ret> ______ __ _____ ______ __ _____ ______ __ _____ A status display will scroll out for each file as it is extracted to the default drive. The "-N" option will cause an overwrite of any existing files in the default directory with the same name but an older date as those being extracted, without any additional confirmation, to avoid confusing things. To extract to another drive or directory, refer to the HELP option, by using "/H" (QLIB32/h). FLOPPY DRIVE USERS: FLOPPY DRIVE USERS: FLOPPY DRIVE USERS: ______ _____ ______ ______ _____ ______ ______ _____ ______ To extract & run the program on a dual floppy drive system, use the EXTRACTx.BAT file(s) to get the right files on the right disk, (program disk and data disk) as they do not all fit on a single disk. (Note: "x" in EXTRACTx is a number, 1, 2, etc., depending on how many of these batch files are included with this release. ALL USERS: ALL USERS: ALL USERS: ___ ______ ___ ______ ___ ______ Furthermore, it is suggested that plenty of working space be left on the data disk(s) to accommodate new entries and working indexes that the program needs to make for itself. A simplistic check is made for adequate disk storage space (at least 1kB over the current file sizes) (prior to expected needs for additional space), but you can probably over-ride it if you try hard..... If it does not successfully prevent you from running out of disk space, you may lose data, although this has been minimized within the program. You have been warned! CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-6 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-6 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-6 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program REQUIRED FILES: REQUIRED FILES: REQUIRED FILES: ________ ______ ________ ______ ________ ______ After preparing your working disk(s), verify that the following files are available either on your working disks or in the default directory: QLIB3.EXE - the library/catalog program. ERROR.TXT - file containing QuickSilver run-time error messages. TEST1.DBF - a sample library/catalog file IMPTDISK.DBX - used when importing new disk directory information into the library/catalog. The following files are only needed when running reports of the library contents: LCAT1RPT.FRM - format of library report by category1. LCAT2RPT.FRM - format of library report by category2. LDSKRPT.FRM - format of library report by disk no. LFILERPT.FRM - format of library report by filename. COLORS.DBX - needed only if you wish to modify the screen colors. EXTRCTB1.BAT, EXTRCTB2.BAT, etc. - used to extract the necessary files from the original "archive" file. The following files are not needed for operation of QLIB3, but you may wish to have them handy on a spare disk or on your hard disk. READ.ME - text file containing last minute information which may not be in this manual. README.BAT - calls browse.com to help read the read.me file... BROWSE.COM - allows viewing any part of a text or WS file, better than the DOS TYPE command. QLIB3.DOC - this user manual. PRINTDOC.BAT - batch file for easily printing the user manual. DISKNO.NDX - created the first time you use QLIB3. COLORS.NDX - created the first time you change screen colors. COLORS.MEM - created the first time you change screen colors. PRINTSET.MEM - created the first time you print a report. You may also find other files which may be of interest, and of course, any other library/catalog files included from your user group library or other source. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-7 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-7 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-7 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program INITIAL START-UP: INITIAL START-UP: INITIAL START-UP: _______ _________ _______ _________ _______ _________ After preparing your working disk(s), to invoke the program, simply call up: C:\QLIB3 > QLIB3 <ret> C:\QLIB3 > QLIB3 <ret> C:\QLIB3 > QLIB3 <ret> _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ QLIB3 automatically checks for a color graphics card and invokes a colored display if found. I hope you like the colors chosen. They can be modified in current version of QLIB3 (See Appendix S). Owners of monochrome display adapters will notice no effect from this change. If you prefer a "black & white" (monochrome) operation, you can invoke it at the command line, as described below, this allows direct access to over-ride the automatic selection of color mode on color graphics adapter compatible systems (such as Compaq portable, some laptops, and others) which may not "look" as good in the color mode on their monochrome screens. Also, a command line option is available to allow you to choose a library/catalog file, and then go directly to the Main Menu screen, bypassing the question and answer screen completely, except for a question on updating the opening index file. Feel free to experiment to see which you prefer. The expanded command line is invoked as follows: A:\> QLIB3 {d:libraryname} {monochrome} Where: each option is separated from the next by a single space QLIB3 = the library/catalog program (QLIB3.EXE) {d:library name} = the drive (& optional pathname) & name of the .DBF file with the library/catalog of interest (optional). If not specified, then you cannot use the balance of the options. MS-DOS Pathnames are supported. {monochrome} = M or m - a single character to force an override of the automatic color selection to be monochrome mode. Owners of Compaq portables and similar monochrome graphics adapters which respond as color adapters may prefer this mode, for readability. If blank, or other than <M>, it is ignored. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-8 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-8 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-8 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program For example, to log onto the library/catalog system, using the sample data file on Drive B:, in monochrome mode on a color video system, enter: QLIB3 B:TEST1 M If you enter the name of a non-existent library file, you will get an error message, and then be prompted for an existing file, as outlined below. This is the one technique possible to obtain monochrome mode on a color graphics adapter, even if you don't know the name of the file you want to access. Simply call up: C:\QLIB3 > QLIB3 nonfile m C:\QLIB3 > QLIB3 nonfile m C:\QLIB3 > QLIB3 nonfile m _____ _______ _ _____ _______ _ _____ _______ _ Just use any "nonsense" file name. The program will boot in forced monochrome mode, tell you the file does not exist, and then proceed into the prompt for a correct file name, etc. 88-11-22 - Version 2.0 - If you choose to change the screen display color selections, and them make the changes permanent (see Appendix S for how to do this), QLIB3 will save the colors in a special file on the default disk and directory. The next time you use QLIB3, the "M" option will not work to override the color mode. If you subsequently change your mind and wish to utilize the monochrome mode, simply use the MS-DOS command: DEL COLORS.MEM <ret> to erase that special file from your data disk, thereby re- enabling the original color/monochrome selections. This is covered in more detail later, in Appendix S. The following pages and screen descriptions are as shown in the version existing when the manual was written, and may have been changed slightly in the actual version you are using. Usually any such changes will be noted in the text. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-9 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-9 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-9 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ NOTE: 88-11-22 - It has been noted that some types or brands of NOTE: 88-11-22 - It has been noted that some types or brands of NOTE: 88-11-22 - It has been noted that some types or brands of "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and operational problems with QLIB3. This seems to be a compiler operational problems with QLIB3. This seems to be a compiler operational problems with QLIB3. This seems to be a compiler related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QLIB3 In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QLIB3 In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QLIB3 occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc.), the first place occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc.), the first place occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc.), the first place to check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on to check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on to check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that your computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that your computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software, remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or software, remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or software, remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the computer with no disk-caching used. This re-boot the computer with no disk-caching used. This re-boot the computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate further problems of this nature with QLIB3. should eliminate further problems of this nature with QLIB3. should eliminate further problems of this nature with QLIB3. Naturally, you can re-invoke the disk-caching software when not using QLIB3. Known discrepancies or incompatibilities have occurred with Golden Bow's VCACHE, Mace Utilities CACHE, CACHE-EM, and MCACHE. Use of QLIB3 in conjunction with SpeedStor's SC (SpeedCache) appears to function properly. If you have further information (good or bad) on this, please contact Creative Resources. Thank you. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-10 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-10 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-10 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program If you start the program with no option suffixes, or if you use the technique above for forcing monochrome mode, (since you do not yet know the names of your library files....), you will be presented with an opening ShareWare notice. After pressing the spacebar to continue, you will get to the opening program screen (Fig. 0-1, below). The first time you use the program, rather than entering the name of a library file, simply hit <return> to get a list of the available files. You will be asked for the drive to use for the file listing. If you want the default drive, simply hit <Return>. Otherwise, enter the single letter of the (legal) drive you want to access. [Floppy drive only users will want to enter their other drive (ie: B) for data files, as you will probably not have adequate disk space for both programs and data files and associated files on a single 360 kB diskette.] The program will react immediately, so, do not also hit <Return>! If you want to quit now, hit <Esc>, and you will exit directly to DOS. +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - P.C. USER'S GROUP LIBRARY / CATALOG PROGRAM | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ Enter Library Filename database name ('d:\path\dfile') {<RETURN> for listing } : <return> <return> <return> ________ ________ ________ Drive for Library data file listing ( 'B', 'C', etc. <ESC> to Quit ) ? : B B B _ _ _ Fig. 0-1 Opening Screen. Fig. 0-1 Opening Screen. Fig. 0-1 Opening Screen. You will then be presented with a list of available dBASE-III data files on the chosen drive (in the default directory) (Fig. 0-2). There is no current way to get a file list in another directory, however, you CAN access any file in any directory by entering it's full pathname. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-11 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-11 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-11 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - P.C. USER'S GROUP LIBRARY / CATALOG PROGRAM | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ Database Files # Records Last Update Size DVPCLIB.DBF 2829 04/21/88 322942 TEST1.DBF 0 04/21/88 436 323478 bytes in 2 files. 3184640 bytes remaining on drive. Enter Library Filename database name ('d:\path\dfile') : test1 <ret> test1 <ret> test1 <ret> _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ Fig. 0-2 File Listing. Fig. 0-2 File Listing. Fig. 0-2 File Listing. NOTE: The actual files listed may be different from those shown above. Simply choose an appropriate file name, such as that illustrated. Be aware that all files with the extension xx.DBF will be displayed, whether they are valid QLIB3 files or not. Any other file not furnished with or created by QLIB3 should NOT be chosen, as the file will probably have the wrong structure, and will cause QLIB3 to "bomb". Any other listed file may be chosen (from the original files on the QLIB3 disk, or any you create yourself). If you enter a filename that is not on the list (and which does not exist elsewhere on your system), you will be given an error message and a chance to try again. If you continue to have trouble getting a valid file, check your typing. It is not necessary to enter the file extension (.DBF), although you may if desired. Advanced users may create files with different extensions if desired, however they will not be displayed in the above file listing, which I have chosen to restrict to .DBF files, only. In general, the use of non-.DBF filenames is not recommended. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-12 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-12 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-12 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program After you have entered a valid file from the list, the first time through the program you will have a new index file automatically created for rapid access to the catalog data. The program will advise you as it performs this operation. This index file has a fixed filename (DISKNO.NDX), and is re-used for each library file. Once the index file is initially created, at this point, you would next be asked if you need a new index (Fig 0-3). If you have not changed library files, or if you plan to import new lists of disk file names into the catalog, you can save time by skipping the new index, until just before you want to access any data in the file. NOTE: Index files are used to allow rapid access to your data, and to cause it to be arranged in a different order than that which may have been entered, for your maximum convenience. They are also used in the reports module, outlined below. The reports indexes are not the same as this first index for screen data access, and will need to be created when you first use the report generator for any report option number. This will be covered in more detail in Section 4, Reports. +-------------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - P.C. USER'S GROUP LIBRARY / CATALOG PROGRAM | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +-------------------------------------------------------------------+ You have selected file: D:\LIBRARY\TEST1.DBF ** Do You Need a New Index at this time ? Y ** Fig. 0-3 Opening Index Selection. Fig. 0-3 Opening Index Selection. Fig. 0-3 Opening Index Selection. If you choose a new index, you will be given a status message advising that the file is being indexed, the number of records (lines in the file), etc. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-13 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-13 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-13 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Upon completion of indexing (or if you skip it), you will then proceed directly to the main menu (Fig. 0-4). File: D:\LIBRARY\TEST1.DBF +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - P.C. USER`S GROUP LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | | | 1 - QUERY Library Listing Data | | 2 - Generate REPORTS of Library Contents | | 3 - Create/Re-Create INDEX Files | | | | 4 - RESTART with a New Library File | | | | 5 - INPUT/EDIT Library Listing Data | | | | 6 - IMPORT New Filename Data from Diskette | | 7 - CREATE NEW (empty) Library/Catalog File | | 8 - MERGE Two Existing Library/Catalog Files | | | | 0 - EXIT to MS-DOS | | | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ Please Enter Desired Action, H for HELP, or Use Cursor Arrows Fig. 0-4 Main Menu. Fig. 0-4 Main Menu. Fig. 0-4 Main Menu. Each menu choice is self-explanatory as to its purpose, however, all are further outlined below. The choices or options are arranged generally in the order of non-edit inquiry (such as for a club member looking at items in the club software library), then edit or input for creating new or changing existing entries (such as by the club software librarian). The balance of the choices or options support general file and disk maintenance operations. Note that the chosen library/catalog data file (including its drive and directory location) are displayed at the top left corner of the menu. This provides an easy reference to be sure that you are not confused as to its identity or location. It is strongly suggested that if you use the full command line options to jump directly to the main menu that you check the "FILE:" line above to be sure that you did not make an error or call up the wrong file or drive by mistake. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-14 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-14 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-14 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program The Version 2.0 Main Menu includes "light-bar" style access to all visible options, by simply using the cursor key arrows to move the light-bar up and down the list to the option desired. Then press the <Ret> key to accept the choice. Alternately, at any Menu, (or when using Menubars during editing or querying), it is only necessary to type the letter or number of the option desired. No carriage return is needed, nor should one be given here. This is not the case for entering most other information during program execution. Hidden selections (covered below), may only be chosen by pressing the letter or number of the hidden choice. Hidden selections are included for options not normally needed, such as for re-setting the choices for screen display colors (Hidden Option S). A brief description of each Main Menu Option is included below and is also summarized in an on-line help Option H: Main Menu Option H - MAIN MENU HELP SCREENS. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ ____ ____ ________ If you do not know or cannot remember the overall functions of any of the main menu options (including the hidden options), simply press <H> at the main menu prompt, regardless of the location of the highlighted bar. The screen will clear and then display a series of screens outlining the options available from the main menu (please see Fig. 0-5 and 0-6 below). CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-15 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-15 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-15 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program File: C:\QLIB3\EXE\TEST1.DBF +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - P.C. USER`S GROUP LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ MAIN MENU HELP Screen 1 of 2 Choose To Perform these operations: ------ -------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 to QUERY or view the library contents without editing anything 2 to obtain REPORTS on the contents of the current Library file you will also specify "filters" on the scope of the report(s) 3 to create new INDEX files, if you are getting "strange" data results. 4 to RESTART with a different Library/Catalog file 5 to EDIT or INPUT new information for any Library/Catalog listing 6 to add new filenames and info from a floppy disk IMPORT 7 to CREATE a new Library file for separating information & handling 8 to MERGE any two or more Library Files into a single one (powerful!) 0 to EXIT to DOS, ie: quit the program and properly close your files ** More Help ? ** (Y/N) Y Fig. 0-5 Main Menu Help Screen 1 of 2 Fig. 0-5 Main Menu Help Screen 1 of 2 Fig. 0-5 Main Menu Help Screen 1 of 2 +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - P.C. USER`S GROUP LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ MAIN MENU HELP Screen 2 of 2 Choose To Perform these operations: ------ ------------------------------------------------------- S to SET or change the current choices of screen colors.... (hidden) In addition to the <Up-Arrow> and <Dn-Arrow> keys, you may also use <Home> to jump to the first menu item, and <End> to jump to the last menu item displayed... ** There's No More Help ** Press a key to return... Fig. 0-6 Main Menu Help Screen 2 of 2 Fig. 0-6 Main Menu Help Screen 2 of 2 Fig. 0-6 Main Menu Help Screen 2 of 2 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-16 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-16 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-16 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program The following sections are numbered to parallel the main menu choices they describe, and generally can each stand alone, or with minimal reference to other parts of the user manual. Options 1 and 2 will probably be of most interest to the user who is primarily interested in seeing what is in a club (or his own) software library. The club member who is only interested in accessing the file descriptions of his user group library/catalog will probably want to go directly to Sections 1 and 2 for more information. Option 3 is used any time strange or unexpected results are encountered when attempting to access the catalog information, which could be the result of damaged index file. Index files can be damaged by power outages in the middle of data entry, edit or querying, or at most any time during the use of the program, or if you run out of disk space unexpectedly during some other operation. Strange results or an inability to access newly added information in a file are also the result of using an out-of-date or incorrect index. This option provides a convenient means of re-creating your index file without the need to re-start the program. Option 4 is a convenience feature that allows the user to load a different library/catalog file and create its new index for data access without the need to first exit the QLIB3 program. Options 5, 6, and 7 are used primarily for new entries to a library/catalog, such as by the club librarian, and are covered in more detail in Sections 5, 6, and 7, respectively. Option 8 provides a means for creating a new library/catalog file by merging two other existing library/catalog files into the new one. This is needed due to a feature of dBASE files that will not accept or properly be able to use such a file that was combined by any means outside of dBASE (ie: the DOS file concatenation operation of COPY file1+file2 file3 ). This is covered in more detail in Section 8. Not shown is a "hidden" Option S for setting or re-setting the colors of the display (color graphics card equipped computers only). It is "hidden" as this choice will only rarely be wanted. Its operation will be described in more detail in Appendix S. Once again, if you cannot remember the functions of these Main Menu options, you may press <H> to obtain on-line help which summarizes these selections. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-17 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-17 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-17 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Main Menu Option 0 - EXIT TO Operating System Level. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ____ __ _________ ______ ______ This is largely self-explanatory. Option 0 exits the program, and automatically closes all open files that may have been created or accessed during the current program session. Note: You may also type <Q> or <X> or <Esc> to Exit. It is strongly recommended that after exiting QLIB3 that you immediately make a "back-up" copy of your data files, onto a different floppy disk, to keep as a spare, in case something happens to the copy on your working data disk or hard disk. This can save you many hours of wasted work in the event you have a catastrophic failure of your computer of software which wipes out your files. This is good policy to follow in general, for all your software. For you hard disk users: This general policy also virtually eliminates the need for an overall hard disk "BACKUP/RESTORE" exercise, since you will always have a copy of the latest versions of your files. It also makes it easier to transfer these files to a different computer at your convenience. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-18 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-18 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 0-18 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Option 1 - QUERY THE LIBRARY LISTING DATA. Option 1 - QUERY THE LIBRARY LISTING DATA. Option 1 - QUERY THE LIBRARY LISTING DATA. ______ _ _ _____ ___ _______ _______ _____ ______ _ _ _____ ___ _______ _______ _____ ______ _ _ _____ ___ _______ _______ _____ This option from the main menu is primarily intended for the club member or user interested in viewing individual entries in the library catalog database, without the need to edit the information. It has display screens virtually identical to those from Main Menu Option 5, however, the menubar will only allow actions that are non-edit, e.g.: navigation (Beginning, End, Next, Prev, Skip), data search (Retrieve, Filter, List), Help, and Quit (Fig. 1-1). File: D:\LIBRARY\DVPCLIB.DBF +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - LIBRARY / CATALOG PROGRAM - LIBRARY QUERY | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ Library File Record No. CATEGORY 1 CATEGORY 2 DISK NO. VOLUME NAME 1070 of 2829 (F2) (F3) (F4) (F5) FILENAME EXT SUMMARY / DESCRIPTION (F6) TEST4 PRG Project c/o John Friel III FILESIZE (bytes) FILE DATED: 125000 05/01/87 Ret/Beg/End/Next/Prev/Skip/List/Filt/Help/Quit? R Fig. 1-1 Data Query (Non-Edit) Screen. Fig. 1-1 Data Query (Non-Edit) Screen. Fig. 1-1 Data Query (Non-Edit) Screen. These options are a sub-set of those available in Main Menu Option 5, and represent only "non-edit" commands, that allow display but do not allow changing or adding to or deleting any data. See Section 5 for more information on editing commands. Each time this option is requested from the main menu, the initial screen will appear the same, with the first data record in index order displayed. Note, however, that the number of records in the data file and the position of the first displayed record may vary, in accordance with the actions you take. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program The notation F2, F3, etc. under the field name headings is a reminder that these function keys have been set up for easy duplication of previous saved entries in the field below their notation. This facility is only available when using Main Menu Option 5, or when setting query filters, however. In addition, Function Key F10 is defined to clear any field to the right of the cursor. The menubar at the bottom of the screen contains the available actions you may take by simply entering the first letter of its abbreviation. If you cannot remember what each one means, simply enter <H> for on-line help. You will then be advised of several screens of information, as outlined below. Note: If the data file is empty when you first attempt to access Note: Note: it in Query Mode, the QLIB3 program will not display this screen, but will only yield a message about the empty file at the bottom of the screen. This is in contrast to its operation with Option 5, which causes it to automatically go into the data Add mode, displaying a message to that effect. Refer to Section 5 for more information on input/edit commands. Menubar Item H - On-Line Help for Query. Menubar Item H - On-Line Help for Query. Menubar Item H - On-Line Help for Query. _______ ____ _ _ _______ ____ ___ ______ _______ ____ _ _ _______ ____ ___ ______ _______ ____ _ _ _______ ____ ___ ______ Choose this menubar option to refresh your memory as to the meaning and/or operation of the menubar abbreviations, to get help on setting filters for display or reports, help on special keys used for accessing the file, and the current suggested "categories" to be used on the data entry screen or for searches and filters for data. The on-line help for the Query mode only includes non-edit information. Future versions will allow editing of the suggested category list by the user. Note that any category notation may be used, even if it is not in the list of suggestions. Option Database maintenance action ------ ------------------------------- Beg go to beginning of database End go to end of database Filt set filter on database List display records on screen Next go to next record Prev go to previous record Quit terminate current activity Ret retrieve a record by key Skip move up or down by a specified number of records ** More Help ** - Press any key to continue... Fig. 1-2 Data Query Menubar Help Screen. Fig. 1-2 Data Query Menubar Help Screen. Fig. 1-2 Data Query Menubar Help Screen. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program SPECIAL NOTE ON FILTERS: ------------------------ When choosing a filter condition, use only the minimum number of parameters (fields), and minimum number of characters to obtain a "match". If too many parameters are used, the filter condition will become too long for dBASE-III Plus to evaluate, and either an error message will occur or the program will "bomb". Nothing will be harmed, but you may need to re-start the program. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED !! ** There's More Help ** - Press any key to continue... Fig. 1-3 Filter Help Screen. Fig. 1-3 Filter Help Screen. Fig. 1-3 Filter Help Screen. C A T E G O R Y K E Y S M E N U =================================== KEY KEY --- LANGUAGE UTILITIES --- OTHER CATEGORIES asm: ASSEMBLY PROGRAMMING dsk: DISK MAINTENANCE bas: BASIC PROGRAMMING ram: RAM DRIVES for: FORTH PROGRAMMING com: COMMUNICATIONS pas: PASCAL PROGRAMMING ptr: PRINTERS --- APPLICATIONS txt: TEXT PROCESSING grd: GRAPHICS DEMOS mon: MONITOR PROGRAMS gra: GRAPHICS kbd: KEYBOARD PROGRAMS --- BUSINESS bat: BATCH FILES plo: PLOTS, CHARTS, GRAPHS --- GENERIC law: LEGAL SERVICES inf: INFORMATION dbm: DATA BASE MANAGEMENT utl: SYSTEM UTILITIES fin: FINANCIAL msc: MISCELLANEOUS vis: VISICALC FILES --- RECREATIONAL wks: LOTUS 123 FILES gam: GAMES mus: MUSIC, SOUNDS ** There's More Help ** - Press any key to continue... Fig. 1-4 Category Keys Help Screen. Fig. 1-4 Category Keys Help Screen. Fig. 1-4 Category Keys Help Screen. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-3 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program White key Screen editing action --------- --------------------- --> character right <-- character left up arrow previous field down arrow next field PgDn, PgUp accept screen End next word/field Home previous word/field Del delete character Ins insert on/off toggle F2 Auto Dup - Category1 last saved F3 Auto Dup - Category2 last saved F4 Auto Dup - Diskno last saved F5 Auto Dup - Volname last saved F6 Auto Dup - Summydescr last saved F10 Delete Field to the right (^y) ** No more Help ** - Press any key to continue... Fig. 1-5 Edit/Navigation Keys Help Screen. Fig. 1-5 Edit/Navigation Keys Help Screen. Fig. 1-5 Edit/Navigation Keys Help Screen. More information on the other menubar options is outlined below. These menubar options primarily consist of navigation commands, data search, retrieve and query commands and will be covered in that order. Data input and edit commands are only accessible via Main Menu Option 5, as discussed in Section 5, below. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-4 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program The navigation commands: B (Beginning), E (End), N (Next), P (Previous), and S (Skip) Menubar Item B - Go to first record. Menubar Item B - Go to first record. Menubar Item B - Go to first record. _______ ____ _ _ __ __ _____ _______ _______ ____ _ _ __ __ _____ _______ _______ ____ _ _ __ __ _____ _______ Menubar Item E - Go to the last record. Menubar Item E - Go to the last record. Menubar Item E - Go to the last record. _______ ____ _ _ __ __ ___ ____ _______ _______ ____ _ _ __ __ ___ ____ _______ _______ ____ _ _ __ __ ___ ____ _______ Menubar Item N - Go to the Next record. Menubar Item N - Go to the Next record. Menubar Item N - Go to the Next record. _______ ____ _ _ __ __ ___ ____ _______ _______ ____ _ _ __ __ ___ ____ _______ _______ ____ _ _ __ __ ___ ____ _______ Menubar Item P - Go to the Previous record. Menubar Item P - Go to the Previous record. Menubar Item P - Go to the Previous record. _______ ____ _ _ __ __ ___ ________ _______ _______ ____ _ _ __ __ ___ ________ _______ _______ ____ _ _ __ __ ___ ________ _______ Menubar Item S - Skip (Jump) a number of records. Menubar Item S - Skip (Jump) a number of records. Menubar Item S - Skip (Jump) a number of records. _______ ____ _ _ ____ ______ _ ______ __ ________ _______ ____ _ _ ____ ______ _ ______ __ ________ _______ ____ _ _ ____ ______ _ ______ __ ________ These commands, in conjunction with Retrieve and/or Filter, are a powerful and easy way to move around or navigate in the data file, without the need to know what is already there. Beginning, End, Next, Previous, and Skip are self-explanatory means for navigating through the data file to the first, last, next, previous or to jump to any record at any number of records after (+) or before (-) the displayed record. The Beginning, End, Next and Previous commands are immediate, with no further prompts or status messages, unless you request to move beyond the end(s) of the current file or filter range. If this is so, you will be prompted that you already have the "First" record or the "Last" record displayed. If a filter is in use at the time, those messages refer to the first or last record in the filtered range, and not necessarily to the first or last entry in the overall data file. When in doubt, cancel the filter (as outlined below). When you choose Skip, you will be prompted for the number of records to be skipped. Enter any number from 999 to -999, including the minus sign (to skip backwards towards the beginning of the file). If you attempt to skip beyond the end of the file, or end of the filtered range, you will simply go to the first or last matching record, as appropriate. Remember, however, that the file is displayed in index order on disk number, so a lower record number may NOT be a previous entry, and a higher record number may not be the next entry..... CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-5 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-5 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-5 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program The Retrieve, Filter and List commands provide powerful ways to search, retrieve and query the data in the active library/catalog file. Menubar Item R - Retrieve a record. Menubar Item R - Retrieve a record. Menubar Item R - Retrieve a record. _______ ____ _ _ ________ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ________ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ________ _ _______ When you choose Retrieve, the screen data area clears and asks for a disk number to retrieve. No other data area is available for entry during the retrieval request. Upon entering the disk number, you will be positioned at the first matching file listing record for that disk. Simply go Next, Previous, or Skip for editing the balance of that disk's file entries. There is no restriction on moving on to the next or previous disk's listings. You will be advised if the requested disk number cannot be found. You may then choose to retrieve a different disk number or some other action. If you do not find a disk number that you are sure is in the file, it is possible that the index file is out of date or has become corrupted due to a power surge, outage or other reason. If you suspect that to be so, return to the main menu and choose option 6 to re-create the index file, and then return to the data screen to try again. Alternately, you may first wish to try a filter condition for only "part" of the disk number or other criteria, to be sure that you have not just typed in an erroneous disk number. Menubar Item F - Find/Filter the display. Menubar Item F - Find/Filter the display. Menubar Item F - Find/Filter the display. _______ ____ _ _ ___________ ___ ________ _______ ____ _ _ ___________ ___ ________ _______ ____ _ _ ___________ ___ ________ The Filter option from the Menubar works much like Retrieve, except that it is somewhat slower for the initial and subsequent screens (depending on the size of the active data file), and you can restrict your searches or queries to specific values or ranges of values for any field. The Filter option is also used to clear a previous filter, allowing the full range of data in the library/catalog to be displayed. Upon choosing Filter option, you will first be asked if you want to set a filter, cancel the filter or just forget it ("No"). If you choose to Cancel the filter, all records again become accessible, without restriction, and the "Last" and "First" records refer to the entire data file. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-6 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-6 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-6 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program If you choose to set a new filter, any previous filter is superseded by the new one. They are not additive. If this action is chosen, the screen will clear to all blanks. Simply enter any characters to be found in the appropriate field(s). As noted in the Help screens, you should use only the minimum number of characters for a "match", and do not use "too many" fields or characters at one time, to avoid a filter criteria too long for dBASE-III/QuikSilver to evaluate. This will rarely be a problem. If the criteria become too long to evaluate, you will get a QS run-time error, and the program may "bomb", but your data will not be harmed. Another good reason to avoid entering too may characters or fields for the filter is that a mistake when setting the filter will be more likely to eliminate your ability to find the desired data. If you filter using only the disk number, the initial screen displayed will be identical as for Retrieve, however, subsequent operations can only occur on that disk number's listings, until the filter is cleared. All other commands operate as before, except that Beginning and End will go the the first or last matching record, and not the the beginning or end of the entire file. By judicious use of the filtering criteria, a wide range of possibilities exist for easily accessing the overall file data. The report filters with main menu Option 2 (REPORTS) work similarly. For example, suppose you wanted to query or edit all the entries with BASIC source code. After choosing to set the filter, then enter only "BAS" in the File Extension field, and hit <PgDn> to skip the other filter criteria. You will then obtain a display of only files in the library/catalog with the extension .BAS. Similarly, to see only those file listings for Turbo Pascal, and knowing that few listings exist for Turbo Prolog or Turbo C, only enter "TURBO" in the Summary/Description field, then <PgDn> to skip the rest of the criteria. This may, however, miss entries that do not begin with the word "TURBO". You could further limit it to Extension of "PAS" and/or Categories "PAS:", which would show anything with Turbo and PAS, but not MicroSoft Pascal or others, for example. If you are interested in only one specific file listing or record, simply type in all the characters of its filename, and unless there are other duplicates, only that one will be displayable. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-7 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-7 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-7 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Conversely, if you want to know about one specific file, but cannot remember exactly how you it was entered, simply request a filter for everything with the first several characters being what you expected. Keep trying different search criteria until you obtain what you want. If it takes an inordinate number of tries to get what you want, just print the whole contents, and look for it by eye. You might also consider whether you need to be more consistent in your data entry or search criteria the next time you enter new items. You could also use the filters to look only for files with dates of a certain date, or a certain file size, although that is of only marginal utility. In short, as outlined in the section on Help, use only the minimum number of characters and minimum number of fields to obtain the desired range, and generally you will obtain that for which you are looking. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-8 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-8 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-8 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Menubar Item L - List the file. Menubar Item L - List the file. Menubar Item L - List the file. _______ ____ _ _ ____ ___ _____ _______ ____ _ _ ____ ___ _____ _______ ____ _ _ ____ ___ _____ Choose this option from the menubar to obtain a partial listing of existing records in the current library data file. This listing is affected by the presence or absence of a Filter condition. A sample listing might look like that shown in Fig. 1-6. File: D:\LIBRARY\DVPCLIB.DBF +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - LIBRARY FILE CONTENTS LISTING ROUTINE | +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ Fields: filename,ext,category1,category2,diskno,volname,filesize,filedate 48 PCMAN EXE gam: gam1 2 GAMES 340 01/01/80 49 PACGIRLA EXE gam: gam1 2 GAMES 5453 01/01/80 50 JOYSTICK EXE gam: gam1 2 GAMES 8810 01/01/80 51 JOYSTICK DOC gam: gam1 2 GAMES 9990 01/01/80 52 PCHEERS BAS mus: mus1 2 GAMES 4550 01/01/80 53 TRUCKER BAS gam: gam1 2 GAMES 6570 01/01/80 54 BACKGAM BAS gam: gam1 2 GAMES 1122 01/01/80 55 README 003 doc: dsk: 3 UTIL3 39 03/29/81 56 XDIR33 EXE dsk: utl: 3 UTIL3 5450 03/28/81 57 XDIR33 DOC doc: dsk: 3 UTIL3 7880 03/28/81 ** More ** ? Y Fig. 1-6 Sample Listing Screen from Menubar. Fig. 1-6 Sample Listing Screen from Menubar. Fig. 1-6 Sample Listing Screen from Menubar. This listing is only a partial indication of the total file contents, to allow it to display on a single line on the screen for quick reference during data entry, edit, or query operations. This is not intended to replace the report generator option from the main menu, however you may wish to do a "print-screen" of particularly interesting items for more information later. Note that the listing is available for all data records at or AFTER the current record. You cannot use this option to list records prior to the current record. To see the earlier records, simply use the SKIP option to move back toward the beginning of the file, and then choose LIST again. To quit back to the data screen, either enter <N> or <Esc>. To get another screenful of listing, hit <return> or <Y> (default). CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-9 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-9 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 1-9 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Option 2 - GENERATE REPORTS OF LIBRARY CONTENTS. Option 2 - GENERATE REPORTS OF LIBRARY CONTENTS. Option 2 - GENERATE REPORTS OF LIBRARY CONTENTS. ______ _ _ ________ _______ __ _______ _________ ______ _ _ ________ _______ __ _______ _________ ______ _ _ ________ _______ __ _______ _________ This option is intended to allow easy access to listings of the library/catalog file's contents in a variety of ways, for maximum flexibility to suit any need. A number of different listing orders, combined with a subset of the same sort of filtering criteria used in Main Menu Options 1 and 5 screen displays is designed to put any desired data at your fingertips with a minimum of hassle. Upon choosing this option, due to the need to create temporary index files for running reports, once again, prior to allowing this option to proceed, QLIB3 will check for adequate disk space. Inasmuch as the report index files could, and likely will, use more than the 1kB "cushion" built-in, it would be wise for the user to have 5 to 15 kB available prior to running this routine. This is primarily a concern for floppy disk only users. If you run out of disk space, the program currently is rather "grace- less", and will reference a run-time error message "026" and then crash. Your data file will not be harmed; however, you will have to "clean-up your act" by using DOS commands to delete all or most index files, copy files to other disks with more space, or any of the other standard ploys used in these circumstances. Since it is difficult to accurately calculate the sizes of index files directly, prior to their actual creation, this release does not include any more sophisticated means of so doing. A future version is planned to accommodate this need. Naturally, hard disk users will (presumably) have little worry about this issue. Once the disk space availability issue has been settled, you will be presented with a new "light-bar" menu of choices for different reports available (Fig. 2-1). CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program File: D:\LIBRARY\TEST1.DBF +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - LIBRARY / CATALOG PROGRAM - REPORTS MENU | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | | | 1. Report Catalog File Contents by DISK_NO | | | | 2. Report Catalog File Contents by CATEGORY_1 | | | | 3. Report Catalog File Contents by CATEGORY_2 | | | | 4. Report Catalog File Contents by FILENAME | | | | 5. Report Catalog File Contents by File EXT. | | | | 6. CREATE/RECREATE Index Files & PACK | | | | R. RETURN to the Main Menu | | | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ Please Enter Desired Action, H for HELP, or Use Cursor Arrows Fig. 2-1 Reports Menu. Fig. 2-1 Reports Menu. Fig. 2-1 Reports Menu. The choices all refer to the order of presentation, rather than to specific contents and arrangement. Each report is very similar to its companions, with only slight re-arrangement of columns of information more pertinent to each than to the others, in addition to a different order of presentation of the records themselves. As on the Main Menu, pressing <H> will display On-Line Help, containing a summary of the report contents and order of presentation for each report, to refresh your memory, if needed (Fig. 2-2). CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program File: C:\QLIB3\EXE\TEST1.DBF +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - P.C. USER'S GROUP LIBRARY/CATALOG - REPORTS MENU | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ REPORTS MENU HELP Screen 1 of 2 Choose To Perform these operations: ------ ----------------------------------------------------------- 1 to obtain listings arranged by DISK No. only 2 to obtain listings arranged by CATEGORY-1, then CATEGORY-2, then DISKNO 3 to obtain listings arranged by CATEGORY-2, then DISKNO only 4 to obtain listings arranged by FILENAME, then FILENAME EXT only 5 to obtain listings arranged by FILENAME EXT, then by FILENAME, then by DISKNO. 6 to create a new INDEX file (by DISKNO), if you are getting strange results... R to RETURN to the Main Menu for QLIB3 ** More Help ? ** (Y/N) Y Fig. 2-2 Reports Menu HELP - Screen 1 of 2 Fig. 2-2 Reports Menu HELP - Screen 1 of 2 Fig. 2-2 Reports Menu HELP - Screen 1 of 2 File: C:\QLIB3\EXE\TEST1.DBF +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - P.C. USER'S GROUP LIBRARY/CATALOG - REPORTS MENU | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ REPORTS MENU HELP Screen 2 of 2 Upon choosing any report, you will then be asked if you want to restrict the scope of items to be reported upon (called a "filter"). You may also obtain HELP at the Filter screen. All reports are available as print-outs or on-screen only. In addition to the <Up-Arrow> and <Dn-Arrow> keys, you may also use <Home> to jump to the first menu item, and <End> to jump to the last menu item displayed... ** There's No More Help ** Press a key to return... Fig. 2-2 Reports Menu HELP - Screen 2 of 2 Fig. 2-2 Reports Menu HELP - Screen 2 of 2 Fig. 2-2 Reports Menu HELP - Screen 2 of 2 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-3 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Also, each report may be filtered to obtain a listing of only that portion of the file's contents of interest. Most reports are available in both printed form and as output to the screen. The screen reports at this time, however, have not been optimized for best readability, and contain "line wrap" as they are too wide for any data to fit on a single line. This may be corrected in a future release, or the user who also owns dBASE-III Plus or dBXL may modify the included report forms to suit. The report filters work much the same way as the filter on the data input/edit and query screens from main menu options 2 and 3. There are fewer parameters available for report filters, however, to aid ease of use (Fig. 2-4). File: D:\LIBRARY\TEST4.DBF +---------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - P.C. USER'S GROUP LIBRARY - REPORT #1 - by DISK NO. | | ** REPORT FILTER ROUTINE ** | +---------------------------------------------------------------+ DISK NO. _______ CATEGORY 1 ____ CATEGORY 2 ____ FILENAME ________ EXT ___ Enter ** All/Partial/No ** field data for Report Filters on Output... Go/Filt/Help/Quit ( G/F/H/Q ) ? F Fig. 2-4 Reports Filter Screen. Fig. 2-4 Reports Filter Screen. Fig. 2-4 Reports Filter Screen. Each report chosen will begin with an opportunity to filter the output, as shown above. If you need help on performing the filter, hit <H> for an explanation of potential filter problems, as outlined earlier (Section 1, Fig. 1-3). Otherwise choose <F> or <ret> to enter the filter condition (if any). If no filter is desired (ie: to print the entire file contents), simply choose <G> to Go directly into the report. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-4 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program If you choose to enter a Filter, as on the input/edit and query screens, you will then be asked if you wish to set or clear the filter or skip filtering completely for output of the whole file. After answering the filter questions, you will be asked if you want a printed report or screen report. If you choose <S> for screen report, and if you have previously run any reports with any data file in the default disk and directory, you will be asked if you need a new index for the report. IF YOU HAVE NOT IF YOU HAVE NOT IF YOU HAVE NOT RUN THIS REPORT SELECTION PREVIOUSLY DURING THIS SESSION WITH RUN THIS REPORT SELECTION PREVIOUSLY DURING THIS SESSION WITH RUN THIS REPORT SELECTION PREVIOUSLY DURING THIS SESSION WITH THIS LIBRARY CATALOG, ANSWER YES. This report index is different THIS LIBRARY CATALOG, ANSWER YES. THIS LIBRARY CATALOG, ANSWER YES. ____ ____ ____ than that used for edit/query screen displays in Main Menu Options 1 and 5. It also is re-used/re-created for each different report, and so must be re-indexed each time a different library/catalog file is used or a different report is requested. Conversely, if you wish to run the same report several times with different filter conditions, you can skip re-indexing after the first run, to save some time. After settling the report index question, you will be asked to press the <space-bar> to proceed. The report will scroll on the screen. When it is complete, you will again be asked to hit <space-bar> to continue, and QLIB3 will then loop back to the go/filter question until you quit to the Reports menu. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-5 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-5 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-5 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program PRINTED REPORTS & PRINTER "SET-UP" STRINGS. PRINTED REPORTS & PRINTER "SET-UP" STRINGS. PRINTED REPORTS & PRINTER "SET-UP" STRINGS. _______ _______ _ _______ ________ ________ _______ _______ _ _______ ________ ________ _______ _______ _ _______ ________ ________ If you ask for a <P>rinted report, you will be warned to be sure the printer is ready, and asked if you want an initial formfeed before printing commences. The included report forms all contain no initial formfeed, but do go to the top of the next form upon completion of printing, so a formfeed is rarely needed at this point. You will now have an opportunity to modify the fonts or way the printer prints characters, using a user-defined "printer set-up string", which is stored in the dBASE memory variable file, "PRINTSET.MEM". Users of other software, such as SuperCalc, Quattro, Lotus, some word processors, or others, will be familiar with the concept of set-up strings or initialization codes. In order to utilize this feature, you will need to refer to your printer's user or reference manual, and be prepared to do a little experimentation the first times until you achieve the desired result, as noted below. If you already have the printer set for full-size characters, these reports require print out in condensed mode; this is a way to do so. If you do not wish to modify the current set-up string, simply enter <N> or <ret>. To change it, enter <Y> or <y>. As usual, no carriage return is needed for the program it accept this one character answer. As distributed the printer setup code is set to "CHR(15)" for condensed mode (17 cpi) on Epson/IBM compatible printers, to accommodate all data on standard A-size (8.5 in x 11 in) paper. Since the reports are set up to print in condensed print on standard paper, no other printer set-up codes are needed, unless so desired, or your printer does not support the CHR(15) setup code included. To change the current set-up string, you will have to enter the appropriate codes shown in your printer's user manual, probably discussed under "Programming your printer" or something similar. For example, to cancel condensed (17 cpi) printing on an Epson or IBM graphics compatible printer, and print in normal, full size (10 cpi) print, answer <Y> to change the set-up string, then enter the following, when requested for the new value: CHR(18) Just type this in, exactly as shown, including the parentheses, then hit <ret> to accept it. This is one possible code for re- setting Epson compatible printers to "normal" mode. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-6 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-6 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-6 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Other codes may require multiple entries, ie: CHR(27)+"(s16H" CHR(27)+"(s16H" CHR(27)+"(s16H" is the set-up string for Hewlett-Packard LaserJet printers for condensed mode. This may seem like "Greek", but if you want a special looking output, you will have to "play along". The "CHR(27)" represents the ASCII value of the key <Esc>, which would otherwise not be able to be entered directly (because the program would think you were doing something else...). Many printer set-up codes utilize CHR(27) + "something", and are therefor often referred to as "Escape Codes". Note also, that in this and similar cases you MUST enter exactly the same punctuation and upper/lower case letters, as the ASCII value of upper case letters is NOT the same as the ASCII value of their lower case equivalent. You may wish to refer to your MS-DOS Operations Manual for more on this. Suffice to say that there is a wide variety of printing effects possible (condensed, expanded, emphasized, italic, super-small, etc.), limited only by your printer's capabilities, but you will have to experiment to achieve the desired results. The current limit of the length of the printer set-up string is up to 60 characters, which seems like a lot, until you have several effects you wish to employ simultaneously. This should be sufficient for most uses, but if not, please contact me for a special version with more length, on request. Whatever set-up string is entered will automatically be saved for use on the next printing. Remember that if you want to switch between different printer modes you will have to enter the different set-up string each time it is to be changed. If you do not need to change it, it will be retained at its last value. After settling the printer setup string questions, as on the Screen reports, if you have previously run any reports with any data file in the default directory, you will be asked if you need a new index for the report. IF YOU HAVE NOT RUN THIS REPORT IF YOU HAVE NOT RUN THIS REPORT IF YOU HAVE NOT RUN THIS REPORT SELECTION PREVIOUSLY WITH THIS LIBRARY CATALOG, ANSWER YES. SELECTION PREVIOUSLY WITH THIS LIBRARY CATALOG, ANSWER YES SELECTION PREVIOUSLY WITH THIS LIBRARY CATALOG, ANSWER YES ___ ___ ___ Again, note that this report index is different the opening index, and must be re-indexed each time a different library/catalog file is used or a different report is requested, but can be skipped after the first run, to save some time. Finally, you will be asked to press the <space-bar> to proceed. The report will scroll on the screen as it prints. When it is complete, QLIB3 will loop back directly to the filter question until you quit to the Reports menu. The actual reports themselves are pretty self-explanatory from their titles in the Reports Menu. Experiment with several until you find the ones you find most useful. If you have some other variation you wish to see added or substituted, feel free to let us know, for consideration in a future release. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-7 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-7 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 2-7 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Option 3 - CREATE/RE-CREATE INDEX FILES. Option 3 - CREATE/RE-CREATE INDEX FILES. Option 3 - CREATE/RE-CREATE INDEX FILES. ______ _ _ ________________ _____ ______ ______ _ _ ________________ _____ ______ ______ _ _ ________________ _____ ______ This option is provided as a convenience at the main menu, should you have added/imported several disks of new filename data and neglected to update the indexes, if you have any reason to suspect that the current indexes have become corrupted (for instance by a program crash from running out of disk space), or if for any reason you don't seem to be able to access information in the file that you know to be there. If any of these conditions occurs, choose this option to generate new index files. This is almost guaranteed to correct the problem. This option will also automatically be called if needed by the program if it encounters a ("fatal" - crash-causing) problem with the main index file during data input, editing or query (Options 1 and 5). It is not automatically called if the index-related problem "merely" prevents you from being able to display some record that you know to be in the file. In this case, you must call the re-indexing routine from the main menu yourself. If you still cannot properly access the data, your next alternative is to exit to DOS, delete all current index files (ie: DEL *.NDX), then restart the program. As noted above, this will force QLIB3 to automatically generate new index files, which should then operate properly. If this still is not successful, the data file itself may be damaged. This is unlikely. Contact CREATIVE RESOURCES for assistance in recovering your data, if it is possible to do so. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 3-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 3-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 3-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Option 4 - RESTART WITH A NEW LIBRARY FILE. Option 4 - RESTART WITH A NEW LIBRARY FILE. Option 4 - RESTART WITH A NEW LIBRARY FILE. ______ _ _ _______ ____ _ ___ _______ _____ ______ _ _ _______ ____ _ ___ _______ _____ ______ _ _ _______ ____ _ ___ _______ _____ Once again, this option is provided as a convenience feature to allow you to call-up another library/catalog file other than the current one in use, without the need to exit the program. Choosing this option from the main menu returns you to the original start-up questions on file desired, default drive, etc. For more information, refer to the section on Starting Up. Note that you may include a drive designator and subdirectory path in the file name. If the pathname is too long to fit on the current screen line, it will simply wrap around, but this has no effect on the correct file name used. Once these questions are answered, the Main Menu comes back on the screen, and all previous selections are available for the new ___ library/catalog file, which you will note has its name displayed as the active file in the upper left corner of the screen. Note: To enter data in a new, empty, library/catalog file, it is necessary to have first "created" the file, using Option 7, as outlined below. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 4-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 4-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 4-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Option 5 - INPUT/EDIT LIBRARY LISTING DATA. Option 5 - INPUT/EDIT LIBRARY LISTING DATA. Option 5 - INPUT/EDIT LIBRARY LISTING DATA. ______ _ _ __________ _______ _______ _____ ______ _ _ __________ _______ _______ _____ ______ _ _ __________ _______ _______ _____ This option from the main menu is primarily intended for the club librarian or user to fill in the balance of the information not part of the importing of file names from Option 6. It is a "superset" of, and shares the search, retrieval and listing functions of main menu option 1, which is a non-edit access of the catalog data, as outlined above. File: D:\LIBRARY\DVPCLIB.DBF +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - LIBRARY / CATALOG PROGRAM - LIBRARY MAINTENANCE | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +--------------------------------------------------------------------+ Library File Record No. CATEGORY 1 CATEGORY 2 DISK NO. VOLUME NAME 43 of 2829 (F2) (F3) (F4) (F5) gam: 2 FILENAME EXT SUMMARY / DESCRIPTION (F6) PEASHOOT BAS PEASHOOTER GAME FILESIZE (bytes) FILE DATED: 14500 02/18/86 Ret/Beg/End/Next/Prev/Skip/Modify/Add/Copy/Del/List/Filt/Help/Quit? M Fig. 5-1 Data Input/Edit Screen. Fig. 5-1 Data Input/Edit Screen. Fig. 5-1 Data Input/Edit Screen. As on Option 1, each time this option is requested from the main menu, the initial screen will appear the same, with the first data record in index order displayed. Note, however, that the number of records in the data file and the position of the first displayed record may vary, in accordance with the actions you take. Also, as on Option 1, if an error occurs from a bad index file, the program will pause to re-index the active catalog data file, and then restore the data screen. The notation F2, F3, etc. under the field name headings is a reminder that these function keys have been set up for easy duplication of previous saved entries in the field below their notation. This allows rapid, error-free duplication of information for several listings sequentially, and also improves consistency of those notations. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program As on Option 1, the expanded capability menubar at the bottom of this screen contains the available actions you may take by simply entering the first letter of its abbreviation. If you cannot remember what each one means, simply enter <H> for on-line help. You will then be advised of several screens of information, as outlined below. Note: If the data file is empty when you first access it, the QLIB3 program will automatically go into the data Add mode, displaying a message to that effect. It will remain in the Add mode until you instruct it otherwise, by either "saving" a blank record, or hitting escape during the data entry. Menubar Item H - On-Line Help for Edit and Query. Menubar Item H - On-Line Help for Edit and Query. Menubar Item H - On-Line Help for Edit and Query. _______ ____ _ _ _______ ____ ___ ____ ___ ______ _______ ____ _ _ _______ ____ ___ ____ ___ ______ _______ ____ _ _ _______ ____ ___ ____ ___ ______ Choose this menubar option to refresh your memory as to the meaning and/or operation of the menubar abbreviations, to get help on setting filters for display or reports, help on special keys used for editing the file, and the current suggested "categories" to be used on the data entry screen or for searches and filters for data. Future versions will allow editing of the suggested category list by the user. Note that any category notation may be used, even if it is not in the list of suggestions. Option Database maintenance action ------ ------------------------------- Add add a record to the database Beg go to beginning of database Copy duplicate current record Del delete current record End go to end of database Filt set filter on database List display records on screen Modify edit current record Next go to next record Prev go to previous record Quit terminate current activity Ret retrieve a record by key Skip move up or down by a specified number of records ** More Help ** - Press any key to continue... Fig. 5-2 Data Input/Edit Menubar Help Screen. Fig. 5-2 Data Input/Edit Menubar Help Screen. Fig. 5-2 Data Input/Edit Menubar Help Screen. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Menubar Query (Non-Edit) selections and help screens shared with the Edit/Input Main Menu Option were covered earlier, in Section 1. These menubar options consist of navigation commands, data search, retrieve and query commands, covered above. More information on the other (edit/input) menubar options is outlined below. These menubar options consist of data input/edit commands only. These menubar commands (A, C, M and D) are primarily of use to the club librarian or any user creating or maintaining his own library/catalog files, and are of no use to someone merely querying the database. As such, they only appear on the menubar for Main Menu Option 5, and not for Main Menu Option 1, which is restricted to non-edit queries only. Menubar Item A - Add a Record. Menubar Item A - Add a Record. Menubar Item A - Add a Record. _______ ____ _ _ ___ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ___ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ___ _ _______ Choose this option to manually add new records to the library/catalog data file. This would be appropriate, for instance, if only a single file were added to an existing disk in the library, and you did not wish to re-import the entire listing, requiring new entry of summary/description, categories, etc. The operation of Add Mode is straight-forward - all fields clear to blanks and are ready to accept any data entered. The cursor will be positioned at the Disk No. (key) field first, and ready to accept any new data desired. Use any combination of editing keys or overwrite with the desired changes, hitting <ret> or <Dn-Arrow> to get to the next field. Use <Up-Arrow> to return to a previous field. When your changes are complete, hit <PgDn> do accept the changes. Little or no data validation is performed, so be careful. Use the edit keys and function key macros as outlined in the help screens. When all fields are filled you will be asked to confirm the save. As noted, it is expected that the vast majority of data file record additions will be made via the disk import Option 1 from the main menu, and that menubar option A will be rarely used. The Add mode is also automatically selected by QLIB3 if you choose to edit an otherwise empty library/catalog data file. To exit the Add mode, simply hit <Esc> at any point on the data screen. This abandons the Add mode, returning you to the Menubar. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-3 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Menubar Item C - Copy a record. Menubar Item C - Copy a record. Menubar Item C - Copy a record. _______ ____ _ _ ____ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ____ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ____ _ _______ Choose Copy Mode to easily add new entries that are very similar to an earlier entry. It works like a combination of Modify and Add, where a new record is created by the modification of any other existing data record, and appended to the end of the file. Simply use the Retrieve and/or Filter commands to locate the record to be duplicated with changes, and then choose <C>. The cursor will be positioned at the Disk No (key) field first, and ready to accept any changes desired. Use any combination of editing keys or overwrite with the desired changes, hitting <ret> or <Dn-Arrow> to get to the next field. Use <Up-Arrow> to return to a previous field. When your changes are complete, hit <PgDn> do accept the changes. You will be asked to confirm the data prior to saving it. As noted for Add mode, it is expected that this option will rarely be utilized. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-4 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Menubar Item M - Modify/Edit a record. Menubar Item M - Modify/Edit a record. Menubar Item M - Modify/Edit a record. _______ ____ _ _ ___________ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ___________ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ___________ _ _______ This option from the menubar is the one most likely to be used in the input/edit mode, to add the additional information needed to the bare file listings imported using Main Menu Option 1. The approach is to use any of the navigation commands (see Section 1) until you reach the record of interest for editing/additional information, then choose <M> from the menubar to make the changes. The cursor will first be placed on the index key field, Disk No. Move to the remaining fields with the editing keys, and change or add any information desired, using the edit keys, function key macros, and overwriting. As noted on the Help screen, to move to the next field, hit <ret> or <Down-Arrow>, to move back to a previous field, hit <Up- Arrow>. When your modifications or additional information is completed, hit <PgDn> to accept the changes. You will be asked to confirm the data before it is saved. If you need help, or cannot remember things like the suggested categories or filter criteria or edit key functions, simply either save or abandon the changes already made and choose <H> from the menubar for on-line help with those topics. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-5 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-5 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-5 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Menubar Item D - Delete a record. Menubar Item D - Delete a record. Menubar Item D - Delete a record. _______ ____ _ _ ______ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ______ _ _______ _______ ____ _ _ ______ _ _______ This option provides a convenient means to delete any inadvertent bad data or duplicate entries, or for any other reason data is desired to be removed from the active data file. Once again, use any of the navigation commands until you reach the record to be deleted, then choose <D> from the menubar to make the deletion. You will be asked to confirm that you really intend to delete this record as shown. This feature of dBASE-III/QS/dBXL does not physically remove the displayed record from the data file at this time, but merely marks the record for deletion during a future "PACK" operation. This is primarily of interest to users of dBASE-III or dBXL, as they can use the interpreted mode commands of the language to "RECALL" improperly marked records, preventing their being lost permanently, if that is important. The compiled QLIB3 program does not contain the ability to RECALL records marked for deletion, as it is expected to only rarely be needed. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-6 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-6 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 5-6 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Main Menu Option 6 - IMPORT NEW FILENAME DATA FROM DISKETTE. Main Menu Option 6 - IMPORT NEW FILENAME DATA FROM DISKETTE. Main Menu Option 6 - IMPORT NEW FILENAME DATA FROM DISKETTE. ____ ____ ______ _ _ ______ ___ ________ ____ ____ _________ ____ ____ ______ _ _ ______ ___ ________ ____ ____ _________ ____ ____ ______ _ _ ______ ___ ________ ____ ____ _________ Although this program is primarily intended for a P.C. user's group to use for distribute a listing of the contents of the club library, Option 6 may be used not just by the club librarian, but by anyone, to easily add new entries to a catalog listing data file, or to help create new catalogs of their own. This routine is self-prompting, and performs the new file listing import in several steps, with a convenient way to quit at any stage prior to completion in case you have made a mistake or change your mind. To quit back to the menu at any screen prompt, simply hit <Esc>. This option offers a very simple approach to file listing importation, particularly as compared to other cataloging programs available from other sources. This release can only accommodate listings of the root directory of the chosen disk, and does not expand .ARC file listings, as can other available programs. What power it lacks is intended to be more than made up for by its ease of use, particularly for the only occasional user, such as the typical P.C. club member referring to listing in the club software library catalog, or for cataloging his/her own diskettes. Upon selecting option 6, (or prior to most options requiring additional disk space) the program will first do a simple check that at least 1 kB more than the total of all existing files is available on the default drive which was chosen on start-up. If this is not true, you will be presented with a warning, and returned to the menu with no action taken. As noted above, it may be possible for the user to bypass this check if he/she tries, but I do not recommend trying, at the hazard of damaging your files. Assuming you pass the available file space check, you will be prompted for the location of the diskette for the new file names to be imported (Fig. 6-1). case you have made a mistake or QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program +--------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM - FILENAME IMPORT ROUTINE | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +--------------------------------------------------------------+ Drive for Import of directory listing ('A', 'B', <ESC> to Quit ) ? : A Fig. 6-1 File Import Screen #1. Fig. 6-1 File Import Screen #1. Fig. 6-1 File Import Screen #1. Any legal drive on your system may be specified. A blank or carriage return will default to drive A. The system accommodates all disk capacities by virtue of its use of the MS-DOS internal command DIR for this initial step. After specifying the drive for the file listing import, you will be prompted to insert the floppy into the drive requested and then asked if you want to see a directory listing of the diskette prior to importing its data (Fig. 6-2). +-------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM - FILENAME IMPORT ROUTINE | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +-------------------------------------------------------------+ Mount Floppy Disk for \ROOT Directory File Listing Import into Drive A: Display Floppy Disk Directory First ( <Y>/ <N> / <ESC> to Quit ) ? N Fig. 6-2 File Import Screen #2. Fig. 6-2 File Import Screen #2. Fig. 6-2 File Import Screen #2. If you enter <N> or <ret>, the import process will proceed to the next step. If you enter <Y>, the screen will clear and a standard MS-DOS directory listing of the root directory of the chosen disk will be displayed (Fig. 6-3). CREATIVE RESOURCES - 6-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 6-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 6-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Directory of A:\ CLIPP1 DBF 693 12-03-87 8:49a CLIPP2 DBF 3282 12-21-87 9:43a COMMAND1 TXT 1659 11-17-87 10:00a COMMAND2 TXT 1594 12-11-87 1:34p DEMO EXE 277364 1-15-88 11:16a EDIT TXT 4068 1-25-88 3:42p FUNCTION TXT 2424 12-01-87 9:37a TSCROLL DBF 418 12-03-87 8:39a DEMO MEM 408 5-01-88 5:16p 9 File(s) 66560 bytes free Press any key to continue..... Fig. 6-3 File Import Disk Directory Listing. Fig. 6-3 File Import Disk Directory Listing. Fig. 6-3 File Import Disk Directory Listing. You will then be asked to press any key to perform the first stage of the file listing import. The floppy drive light will go on, and its directory data will be transferred into a couple of temporary files (DISK.DIR and IMPTDISK.DBX) on the default drive. Then you will be advised that it is okay to remove the floppy diskette, and that you should press any key to continue or <Esc> to quit. Next, you will be advised of the MS-DOS volume name on the disk just imported, the last disk number used in the active library catalog file, and asked if you will fill in the desired disk number and a general category for the files on this diskette. You need not fill in any data at this point, however, if you do, it will mean less to add to the catalog listings when you complete them, and also make it easier to find these listings later. Also, any category notation may be used, without limit (up to 4 characters), however, if you do not use one of the pre- defined categories you may have trouble reporting or retrieving this information later. If you cannot remember the general categories used by the club for classifying files, hit the <Esc> key for on-line help (Fig. 6-4). At this time the list is essentially fixed and hard- coded into the program. A future capability will be to make this user-defined/user-editable. case you have made a mistake or QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program C A T E G O R Y K E Y S M E N U =================================== KEY KEY --- LANGUAGE UTILITIES --- OTHER CATEGORIES asm: ASSEMBLY PROGRAMMING dsk: DISK MAINTENANCE bas: BASIC PROGRAMMING ram: RAM DRIVES for: FORTH PROGRAMMING com: COMMUNICATIONS pas: PASCAL PROGRAMMING ptr: PRINTERS --- APPLICATIONS txt: TEXT PROCESSING grd: GRAPHICS DEMOS mon: MONITOR PROGRAMS gra: GRAPHICS kbd: KEYBOARD PROGRAMS --- BUSINESS bat: BATCH FILES plo: PLOTS, CHARTS, GRAPHS --- GENERIC law: LEGAL SERVICES inf: INFORMATION dbm: DATA BASE MANAGEMENT utl: SYSTEM UTILITIES fin: FINANCIAL msc: MISCELLANEOUS vis: VISICALC FILES --- RECREATIONAL wks: LOTUS 123 FILES gam: GAMES mus: MUSIC, SOUNDS ** There's No More Help ** - Press any key to continue... Fig. 6-4 Category Keys Help Screen. Fig. 6-4 Category Keys Help Screen. Fig. 6-4 Category Keys Help Screen. Members of the DVPCUG should find this listing familiar, as it is adapted from their previous club library cataloging program. A future version will incorporate the ability for the user or club librarian to easily modify this listing to suit his own needs. After you are satisfied with the new disk number assigned and overall category of the files on this disk, filling in all fields, you will be asked to confirm the data. A <N> answer will cause a loop back to ask for the disk number and category again. A <Esc> will, as usual, return you to the menu (with no data added to the active library file. A <Y> answer will branch to one last question advising of the name of the current active library file and the disk number and category you have requested to be added (Fig. 6-5). You have one last chance to change your mind and hit <Esc> to quit with no changes to the active library. If you hit any other key, the new data will be added to the active library. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 6-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 6-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 6-4 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program +--------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM - FILE DATA IMPORT ROUTINE | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +--------------------------------------------------------------+ Ready for Import into: D:\LIBRARY\TEST3.DBF New Disk No. 100001 - Category: demo Press any key to Continue or <ESC> to Quit... Fig. 6-5 File Import Screen #3. Fig. 6-5 File Import Screen #3. Fig. 6-5 File Import Screen #3. Upon pressing any other key, you will see some activity on the default disk drive, as the data is transferred, then you will be advised that the data import was successful and the file is ready for your additional comments, etc. In the interests of saving time, no new index is automatically generated at this time. This allows multiple diskettes to have their file lists imported fairly rapidly, with the library index only needing to be updated prior to your need to access or edit the newly added data. If you attempt to access the newly imported data prior to re- indexing the library file, you will be unable to do so. This is explained in more detail under the discussion for Option 6, below. Also note that the index referred to here is not the same as the indexes used during the report generator function routines, so that creating a new index here does not eliminate the need to create a new report index for this file the first time each report option is chosen. This was covered above in Sections 1 and 5. case you have made a mistake or QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Option 7 - CREATE NEW (EMPTY) LIBRARY/CATALOG DATA FILE. Option 7 - CREATE NEW (EMPTY) LIBRARY/CATALOG DATA FILE. Option 7 - CREATE NEW (EMPTY) LIBRARY/CATALOG DATA FILE. ______ _ _ ______ ___ _______ _______________ ____ _____ ______ _ _ ______ ___ _______ _______________ ____ _____ ______ _ _ ______ ___ _______ _______________ ____ _____ This option was created specifically for the user who is not an experienced dBASE-III Plus/dBXL programmer, and does not know how or does not care to manually create a new library/catalog data file with the necessary file structure to use with this program. It is also the only way for users of the COMPILED Versions to create files without having a copy of dBASE-III Plus or dBXL. No other library data file "shell" need be present, as the program will create the new library/catalog data file directly from the library/catalog file used to start the program. Upon choosing this option from the main menu, the program will first check for adequate available disk space, as before. Upon verification that adequate space exists, you will be asked to furnish the name of the new file to be created (Fig. 7-1). Any legal MS-DOS filename may be used, up to 8 characters. The file extension is assumed to be ".DBF". It is suggested that meaningful files names be used, for your own easy reference in the future. For example, DVLIB02 might be the second library file in a series for the Diablo Valley PC User's Group. Currently, files can only be created in the default directory on the default drive, so no pathname may be entered. This may be changed in a future version. As noted in the start-up section, advanced users may choose to also enter a "dot" and different three character extension, but this is not recommended, as only files with the extension .DBF will be displayed in data file lists from within this program. +-------------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM - NEW FILE CREATION ROUTINE | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +-------------------------------------------------------------+ Enter name of New Library/Catalog file ('b:dfile') : ________ Hit <Esc> or all blanks to Exit.... Fig. 7-1 New Data File Creation Screen. Fig. 7-1 New Data File Creation Screen. Fig. 7-1 New Data File Creation Screen. Upon entering the name of the new file to be created, the program will check for any other files of the same name on the default drive and directory. If this filename already exists, you will be warned, and asked if you want to overwrite the existing file. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 7-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 7-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 7-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program If you answer <Y> for yes, the existing file will be irretrievably destroyed, and its contents lost, so be careful. If you answer <N>, you will be asked for another filename to use. Otherwise, to just quit back to the menu, hit <Esc>, as usual. If the given filename is not already in use, the new file will be created, with no records, ready to accept data, and a confirming message will be displayed. Simply hit <SpaceBar> at this point to return to the menu. To create your first new usable library/catalog file, follow these steps: 1.) Start the program with just the command: QLIB3 <ret>. 2.) At the log-on screen, choose some other existing library/catalog data file, just to get you to the Main Menu. 3.) Enter the desired name of the new data file as noted above. The newly created file will NOT become the active data file, and must be chosen as such. 4.) You will be returned to the main menu, to proceed as appropriate, either with the new file or a previously existing one. 5.) Upon returning to the Main Menu, choose <4> to Restart the program with a new data file. 6.) Enter the name of the new data file just created, then proceed as outlined above. The newly created file then becomes the active data file. The first thing to do upon getting back to the Main Menu is to choose Option 6 to import new file listing data or Option 5 to manually input/edit any new entries to suit your situation and needs. Attempting to first Restart, and trying to use your expected data _____ file name (prior to having actually created it) will either cause an abort to the operating system (since the file does not yet exist), or an endless cycle of messages that the file does not exist and asking for a valid filename. Or, you may achieve some other unpredictable results if you inadvertently call out an otherwise unrelated filename that happens to exist. Follow the above procedure for best results. Note: This routine is also used by Main Menu Option 8 to create a new file to hold the contents of two files to be merged together, and otherwise operates identically. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 7-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 7-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 7-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Option 8 - MERGE TWO EXISTING LIBRARY/CATALOG FILES. Option 8 - MERGE TWO EXISTING LIBRARY/CATALOG FILES. Option 8 - MERGE TWO EXISTING LIBRARY/CATALOG FILES. ______ _ _ _____ ___ ________ _______________ ______ ______ _ _ _____ ___ ________ _______________ ______ ______ _ _ _____ ___ ________ _______________ ______ This option is used for combining the contents of two different library files into one, for your added convenience for searches and reports. It's need is due to the special information dBASE stores in the very beginning (called a "header", which is hidden to the user) of each .DBF file which tells dBASE and this program how long the file is, when it was created or changed, and its file structure. This means that one cannot simply use DOS COPY to concatenate two .DBF files into one, as the information in the second file will remain invisible and inaccessible to dBASE, since it thinks the file ends at the original number of records from the first file concatenated. If all this is confusing, don't worry, the bottom line is: just use this option to combine any two library/catalog files into a third. This approach was taken for safety to maintain the original file(s) in their original condition, in case you have some problem or need the smaller versions of them in the future. It is left up to the user to perform any deletion of files using DOS. The first step will be for QLIB3 to ask for a name for the new merged file, just like on the file creation Option 5. As on Option 5, if the file exists, you will be warned and asked if you want to overwrite it or to quit back to the menu. You will then be asked for each of the names of the two files to be merged. If you do not enter a file name, or if the file(s) named do not exist, you will be able to get a file listing, just like on initial start-up or restart. At this point, similarly to the other options requiring additional filespace, prior to allowing this option, the program checks for at least 1kB of free disk space more than the total of the two files to be merged. You can cross-check this information from inside the program by performing a RESTART (Option 7) and then requesting a file listing. The file sizes and available free space for the current default disk are displayed. Simply add the number of bytes of each of the two files to be merged plus 1000, subtract from the available bytes line at the bottom of the listing to verify that all is well. BEWARE, however, that if you find only marginal space you probably should be conservative and use another disk for this operation, just to be on the safe side. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 8-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 8-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 8-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Possible errors or problems would be that you will only be able to append part of one or both files into the new file, you could run out of disk space while creating its new index, and the program will crash. The original files will not be damaged, however, and you can try again on a fresh disk. Once each of the filenames is all set-up, and the space check has been passed, you will be advised of the instructions you gave, for a final confirmation (Fig. 8-1). Choose <Y> to proceed, <N> or <Esc> to quit back to the menu. File: D:\LIBRARY\TEST5.DBF +------------------------------------------------------+ | QLIB3 - LIBRARY/CATALOG PROGRAM - FILE MERGE Routine | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | +------------------------------------------------------+ +-------------------------------------------------------+ | | | PREPARED TO MERGE: | | | | TEST3 + TEST4 | | | | To produce: TEST5 | | | | Continue with MERGE (Y/N) ? N | | | +-------------------------------------------------------+ Fig. 8-1 File Merge Screen. Fig. 8-1 File Merge Screen. Fig. 8-1 File Merge Screen. To allow easy access to the newly combined data, the new file will become the active one, and you will be asked if you wish to create a new index, which must be done to access the data (if no index file yet exists for edit/query on the default drive, the program will just proceed to create one, without asking). You will then be returned to the main menu. NOTE: The original library files to be provided with this disk should have been split up about every 25 disks of filenames or so (800 or so filename records), to keep the program speed up, and index file size down for best performance. This was also the only way to make it feasible for running on a two-floppy only system. If you have a hard disk with plenty of available space, and if you want all the files combined into a single user group catalog, feel free. I really think you will find that the existing setup is optimal, however. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 8-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 8-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 8-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program SECTION 9 - SUGGESTIONS FOR USERS. ___________ ___ ______ This section contains some suggestions that have been found to be convenient for using the QLIB3 Library/Catalog Management System. They are not mandatory, but may be useful, and informative. In other words, "It works for me!". File Size & Speed Considerations. File Size & Speed Considerations. File Size & Speed Considerations. ____ ____ _ _____ _______________ ____ ____ _ _____ _______________ ____ ____ _ _____ _______________ Due to the use of dBASE compatible files in QLIB3, users of floppy disk only systems in particular should be careful to keep the sizes of all individual library/catalog files relatively small (not more than 75 to 80 kB in size) to assure that there is adequate disk space available on their data disks for both the library/catalog data files and their associated indexes. Even users with hard disks may find it more convenient to keep their individual files in this size range, to speed creation of indexes and searches. P.C. User Group librarians are cautioned that their listings may need to be split up into smaller files following these guidelines, to best allow floppy-only equipped members to access the library. For example, the Diablo Valley PC User's Group catalogs only about 20 to 30 library disks per individual library/catalog file (about 500 to 600 file directory listings), with about seven catalog files, in roughly chronological order of library submittal, to cover the entire club software library available. It is then easy for all users to access only the latest files added to the club library, with floppy-only users not penalized by disk space problems, and hard disk users able to easily merge the files together or leave them separate if desired for better organization and segregation. Screen "Dumps" & Printer "Hang-Ups". Screen "Dumps" & Printer "Hang-Ups". Screen "Dumps" & Printer "Hang-Ups". ______ _______ _ _______ ___________ ______ _______ _ _______ ___________ ______ _______ _ _______ ___________ As noted above in several places, just like any standard IBM-PC compatible session, the user can get a printout of the current screen activities at any time by using the operating system screen-print procedure <SHIFT>-<PrtSc> at any time. This is sometimes referred to as a "screen-dump". Again, as in earlier Section 4, above, beware of taking any action which requires a printer unless you have one available, and it is on-line, to avoid "hanging-up" your computer system, with potentially disastrous results. Particular areas where this technique may be useful would be during a partial screen listing of data from the query or input/edit screen menubar choice L, for use to later retrieve the entire screen on the items listed, or for just a quick look at a single data item from the query or input/edit screen, rather than generating a formal report through main menu option 4 and the reports menu. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 9-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 9-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 9-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Screen Scrolling & Pauses. Screen Scrolling & Pauses. Screen Scrolling & Pauses. ______ _________ _ _______ ______ _________ _ _______ ______ _________ _ _______ Also as noted above, any time screen scrolling occurs, dBASE-III Plus/dBXL/QuickSilver supports the use of <CTRL>-<S> (^S) to pause the scrolling. Touching any key [it is recommended to use <Space-Bar> or <Ctrl>-<Q> (^Q) as that keystroke] will resume the scrolling until the next time ^S is used. We are always happy to accept any further suggestions you may wish to pass along. If you have any other comments or suggestions, please contact us. Also, if, after obtaining the uncompiled version of the QLIB3 Library/Catalog System, or our QCHECK3 Checking Account Management System, you customize it to better suit your own needs, and wish to have it compiled, we would be happy to assist you, for a low nominal fee. CREATIVE RESOURCES 773 Somerset Place Concord, CA 94518 (415) 685-6387 Thank you for your interest and registration/donation for the CREATIVE RESOURCES Library/Catalog System, QLIB3. CREATIVE RESOURCES - 9-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 9-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - 9-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program SECTION I - INDEX. ______ This section contains a partial index of pertinent data for your easy reference. Also be sure to refer to the table of contents and the discussion of whichever main menu and/or menubar option is involved. ------------------- 2-Floppy Drive System, 0-5, 0-6, 0-11, 9-1 Advance Registration, 0-3 ASCII Value, 2-6, 2-7 Backing Up Your Originals, 0-6 Changing The Current Printer Set-Up String, 2-6 COLORS.DBX, 0-7, 5-1 Condensed (17 cpi) Printing On An Epson/IBM Printer, 2-6 Condensed (17 cpi) Printing On A H-P LaserJet Printer, 2-7 CONFIG.SYS, 0-7 Confirm Saving The Data, 5-3, 5-4, 5-5 Confirm Deleting The Data, 5-6 Consistency In Filling In Category Fields, 1-2, 1-7 Contribution/Registration Fees, 0-3, 0-4 Copyright, 0-4 Create A New Library/Catalog File, 7-1 Customization Notes, B-1, B-2 dBASE-III Plus/dBXL/QuickSilver Error Messages, A-1 Disk Full Errors, 3-1, A-1 Disk-Caching Software Warning, 3-10, A-2 Distributing, 0-4 Distribution Disk, 0-6 Edit The Library/Catalog File, 5-1 Editing Or Correction Of Any Item, 5-1, 5-5 Entering Disk File Catalog Information, 5-5, 6-1 Error Messages, A-1 Escape Codes, 2-6, 2-7 Exit Back To The Main Menu, 1-2, 2-1, 5-2 Exit To Operating System Level, 1-2 Expanded Command Line, 0-8, 0-9 EXTRCTB1.BAT, 0-7 EXTRCTB2.BAT, 0-7 CREATIVE RESOURCES - I-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - I-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - I-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program F2, 1-1, 1-2 F3, 1-1, 1-2 F4, 1-1, 1-2 F5, 1-1, 1-2 F6, 1-1, 1-2 F10 A Means Of Clearing Fields, 1-2 Field Name, B-1 File Structures, B-1 Files Included (Required), 0-7 Filter, 1-6, 1-7, 1-8, 2-4 Force An Override Of The Automatic Color Selection, 5-2, S-2 Foreword, i Function Key Definitions, 1-1, 1-2 Full Path Name Support, 0-11 General Steps To Create Working Disks, 0-7 Getting Started, 0-6 Hidden Selections (S), 0-15, S-1 If The Keyboard "Locks Up", 9-1, A-1 If The Printer Is Not On-Line, 2-6 If The Requested Filename Matches With An Existing File, 0-11, 0-12, 4-1 If You Cannot Figure Out The Problem, 9-1 If You Run Out Of Disk Space, 2-1, A-1 Including A Drive Designator And Subdirectory Path, 0-11, 4-1 Initialization Codes (For Printer), 2-6 Internal Program Error Messages, A-1 Introduction, 0-1 Legal Filename, 0-12 List The Next Records, 1-9 Main Menu Options, 0-14 Making A "Back-Up" Copy Of Your Data Files, 0-18 Meaningful Files Names, 0-12 Memory Variable Files, 0-7 Menu Selections, 0-14 Modifying The File Structure And Command Programs, B-1 Modifying The Printer Fonts, 2-6 Monochrome Override (Command Line Option), 0-8, 0-9 Names Of Each Field, B-1 On-Line Help, 1-2, 2-2, 5-2 Pausing Scrolling, 9-2 PKARC/PKXARC, 0-6 Printing Reports Of Library/Catalog File Contents, 2-1 Printer Set-Up String, 2-6, 2-7 Printer Set-Up String (Length Of), 2-7 PRINTSET.MEM, 2-6, 0-7 Program Options Descriptions, 0-16, 0-17 CREATIVE RESOURCES - I-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - I-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - I-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 Registration Form, ii QCHECK3, Another Creative Resources Program, 0-4 Quicksilver Run-Time Error #026, 2-1, A-1 Record Numbers, 1-5 Report Types, 2-1, 2-2 Required Files, 0-7 Restart For New Library/Catalog File, 4-1 Resume The Scrolling, 9-2 Revision Notes & History, A-1 Sample Library/Catalog Data, 0-7, 0-9 Screen Dump, 9-1 Screen-Print Procedure, 9-1 Self-Extracting Archive File, 0-8 Set-Up String For Epson & IBM Printers, 2-6 Set-Up String For Hewlett-Packard LaserJet Printer, 2-7 Set-Up String Entered Is Automatically Saved, 2-7 Setting/Resetting Screen Display Colors, S-1, 0-15 Shareware, 0-1, 0-3 Shareware License, 0-1, 0-4 Suggestions For Users, 5-3, 7-1 System Requirements, 0-5 Table Of Contents, ii TEST1.DBF, 0-7, 0-9 The Beginning Of Any Session, 0-13 The "File:" Line, 0-14 To Make A "Default" Directory Before Invoking, 0-11 Too Many Files Open, 0-5 Total Disk Space Needed, 0-11 Uncompiled Source Code Available, 0-1, 0-4 User Feedback, 0-1, 0-4, 9-2 Working Copies, 0-6 Warning on Disk Caching Software, 0-10, A-2 CREATIVE RESOURCES - I-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - I-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - I-3 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program APPENDIX A - ERROR MESSAGES. _____ _________ There are two kinds of error messages which may be encountered during execution of the QLIB3 Library/Catalog System. They are: internal program error messages and dBASE-III Plus/dBXL/- QuickSilver error messages. It has been attempted to handle all the most common error situations with more friendly internal error messages. If an unanticipated "glitch" occurs, however, the more cryptic QuickSilver error messages may occur. If this occurs, do not panic. Although more intimidating, a study of the exact wording of the error message will often provide the correct response. If you cannot figure out the problem and how to correct it, usually it is relatively safe to hit the <Escape> button once or twice until you get a "QuickSilver Escape - Cancel, Ignore or Suspend? Called by QLIB3.EXE " or similar type of prompt. Simply type <C> for cancel, and you will exit to the operating system level, at which point you can re-start the program. This may not be the fastest solution, but it is probably the safest. Your library/catalog data file should then be checked to be sure that the last entries were accepted and not "glitched", and then you can proceed to finish the interrupted session normally. In extreme cases, (for instance, if the keyboard "locks up") it may be necessary to perform a warm or cold boot/reset. This is extremely rare, but not impossible. If this occurs, be particularly careful in checking your data file when you restart the program. Generally speaking, however, no errors will be found, or only minor ones in the last record, which can be easily corrected/edited. You may, however, have lost the last couple of records, so check carefully. The procedure for performing the warm boot (on an IBM-PC- compatible, <CTRL>-<ALT>-<DEL>) or cold boot (on a IBM-PC- compatible, turning it OFF then back ON--only a last resort) may be found in your computer's owner's reference manuals . The listing and brief explanation of the built-in error messages furnished with the QLIB3 Library/Catalog System has been deleted from this on-disk version of the manual, as it is mostly redundant with the detailed explanations of each option. NOTE: SEE SECTION 0 ABOVE FOR THE POTENTIAL PROBLEMS WITH DISK NOTE: SEE SECTION 0 ABOVE FOR THE POTENTIAL PROBLEMS WITH DISK NOTE: SEE SECTION 0 ABOVE FOR THE POTENTIAL PROBLEMS WITH DISK FULL ERRORS (USUALLY QS RUN-TIME ERROR #026), AND THE WARNING FULL ERRORS (USUALLY QS RUN-TIME ERROR #026), AND THE WARNING FULL ERRORS (USUALLY QS RUN-TIME ERROR #026), AND THE WARNING ABOUT THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE, BELOW. ABOUT THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE, BELOW. ABOUT THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE, BELOW. CREATIVE RESOURCES - A-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - A-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - A-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. WARNING ON THE USE OF DISK-CACHING SOFTWARE. _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ _______ __ ___ ___ __ ____________ _________ NOTE: 88-11-22 - It has been noted that some types or brands of NOTE: 88-11-22 - It has been noted that some types or brands of NOTE: 88-11-22 - It has been noted that some types or brands of "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the "disk-caching" software (utility programs for improving the performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and performance of hard disks) has been found to cause indexing and operational problems with QLIB3. This seems to be a compiler operational problems with QLIB3. This seems to be a compiler operational problems with QLIB3. This seems to be a compiler related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the related (QuickSilver) problem, rather than internal to the program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being program itself, and is beyond our control. It is currently being explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. explored in conjunction with WordTech for a permanent solution. In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QLIB3 In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QLIB3 In the interim, if strange results or an inability to run QLIB3 occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc), the first place to occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc), the first place to occur (QuickSilver RUN-TIME ERROR #015, etc), the first place to check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your check will be for any use of "disk-caching" software on your computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software, computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software, computer. Following the vendor's instructions for that software, remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the remove it from memory, or "dis-invoke" it and/or re-boot the computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate computer with no disk-caching used. This should eliminate further problems of this nature with QLIB3. Naturally, you can further problems of this nature with QLIB3. further problems of this nature with QLIB3. re-invoke the disk-caching software when not using QLIB3. Known discrepancies or incompatibilities have occurred with Golden Bow's VCACHE, Mace Utilities CACHE, CACHE-EM, and MCACHE. Use of QLIB3 in conjunction with SpeedStor's SC (SpeedCache) appears to function properly. If you have further information (good or bad) on this, please contact Creative Resources. Thank you. In any event, if you have problems that you cannot correct or understand, all registered users may contact CREATIVE RESOURCES for assistance. We can accept telephone calls (not collect, please), at any reasonable hour, up to about 10 PM, including weekends, and have an answering machine when not in the office. We will return your calls as soon as possible, if we are not there to receive them directly. Otherwise, write to the address on the cover sheet of this manual. Should you need such assistance, it will be most helpful if you can jot down the exact circumstances under which the problem occurred, and do a MS-DOS <Shift>-<PrtSc> of the problem. If the difficulty arose with a QuickSilver Run-Time error, QS will advise that you may use <Ctl>-<P> for a "dump" to the printer. Please do so. The information printed will better allow us to determine the reason for the difficulty and hopefully help you right over the telephone or immediately by mail. The more information you have for us, the better we can serve you. CREATIVE RESOURCES - A-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - A-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - A-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Appendix B - LIBRARY/CATALOG DATA FILE STRUCTURE. _______________ ____ ____ __________ Although the QLIB3 library/catalog system is set up to avoid the need to use dBASE-III Plus/dBXL commands directly, it may be useful to know some of the inner workings of the system and file structure. In particular, the size of the fields used for each entry will determine how convenient it is to use. In database parlance, a "field" is one type of information, such as the disk number, the date, or the category, and each set of fields for one filename entry is known as a "record", or one line in the data file. The sample data file (TEST1.DBF) included, and all new library/catalog data files each have the same structure, as shown below (the number of records and date of last update may differ on your copy): Field Field Name Type Length Dec 1 FILENAME Character 8 2 EXT Character 3 3 FILESIZE Numeric 9 4 FILEDATE Date 8 5 VOLNAME Character 11 6 DISKNO Character 6 7 CATEGORY1 Character 4 8 CATEGORY2 Character 4 9 SUMMYDESCR Character 60 ** Total ** 114 Note, that these field sizes will give good means of searching for data and adequate room for program descriptions, but, since they total more than 80 characters per record, are not well suited for direct listing to the screen, that is, each complete entry takes up more than one line on the screen, and so may be somewhat inconvenient to list in this manner, except for a "quick-look" at file contents. The experienced dBASE/dBXL user can easily modify the file structure and command programs to suit larger or smaller fields (Un-compiled versions only!). The names of each field are pretty much self-explanatory, but are described in more detail below. CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-1 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-1 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program The following fields come directly from the disk import routine, and would rarely be changed. FILENAME, EXT - These are the MS-DOS filename and file extension, taken directly from the directory listing of the imported disk(s). FILESIZE - This is the MS-DOS file size in bytes, taken directly from the directory listing of the imported disk(s). FILEDATE - This is the MS-DOS file date created or last changed, taken directly from the directory listing of the imported disk(s). VOLNAME - This is the MS-DOS volume name of the imported disk, as created with FORMAT/V or the LABEL command in MS-DOS. If there is no volume name, this defaults to "no volume label". If desired to re- label the disk in this listing, and aid in consistency, function key F5 has been defined to easily duplicate the last entry saved or edited while in the Edit/Input mode. The following fields are intended for the use of the club librarian or program user to further identify the file(s) imported or added to the library/catalog. DISKNO - This is the disk number given or assigned by the user group librarian or program user, and may be the same as the volname or may be blank, or any other desired name. To aid in consistency, function key F4 has been defined to easily duplicate the last entry saved or edited while in the Edit/Input mode. This is also the "key field" used in the edit/query index for rapid access the a particular disk without the need to "filter" or exclude other listings, and it forces the listing to be in disk number order for most operations. This is covered in more detail later. CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program CATEGORY1, CATEGORY2 - These are convenience categories of software classification for groupings of file listings for queries, searches and reporting. It is suggested that at least CATEGORY1 be filled in. Suggested categories to be used are in the Help function from the Menubar (described later), or you may use any other four- character codes desired, but be consistent. To aid in consistency, function keys F2 and F3 have been defined to easily duplicate the last category entries saved or edited while in the Edit/Input mode. SUMMYDESCR - This field is for free-form text for a brief summary or description of the nature, function, or other identification of the file listed. To aid in consistency, function key F6 has been defined to easily duplicate the last entry saved or edited while in the Edit/Input mode. As noted above, the combination of these fields makes up one record or line in the data file for each file listed in the library/catalog. CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-3 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-3 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Similarly, the temporary file, IMPTDISK.DBX, file structure is as follows: Field Field name Type Width Dec 1 FILENAME Character 8 2 DOT Character 1 3 EXT Character 3 4 SPACE1 Character 1 5 FILESIZE Numeric 9 6 SPACE2 Character 1 7 DATE2CHAR Character 8 8 SPACE3 Character 2 9 TIME2CHAR Character 6 10 VOLNAME Character 11 11 FILEDATE Date 8 12 DISKNO Character 6 13 CATEGORY1 Character 4 ** Total ** 69 These fields and sizes were chosen for an easy conversion of the straight "dump" of the directory listing into a temporary ASCII file, named DISK.DIR, which is then "read into" the above dBASE file structure. The field names that duplicate those in the actual library/catalog are then easily added (appended) to the active library/catalog file, with the additional fields available for more information. In practice, you do not need to know the field names or field widths, as they are called out in complete English terminology, with the field width shown with delimiters, as installed with your copy of the source code. The field names are needed, however, if you do any customization of the data file structure or command programs (Un-compiled versions only !!), or if you wish to use dBASE-III Plus/dBXL to generate other queries on the data or different reports. CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-4 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - B-4 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Appendix C - REVISION NOTES. ________ ______ Versions 0.1 thru 0.4 - thru 88-05-15 - BETA test versions only. Not Generally Released. Version 1.0 - 88-06-05 - Original distribution release. Version 1.01 - 88-06-08 - Fixed minor bug in rare startup error. Version 1.1 - 88-06-30 - Added error trapping and recovery for common index-related errors prior to a program crash. Re-arranged the main menu to suit club users rather than for just the librarian... Version 2.0 - 88-11-22 - All new light-bar menus and on-line help screens added. Improved error messages for ease-of-use and under- standing. Added the ability for user- defined screen display colors. Improved DOS path support and error handling through-out. Major re-write of user manual for improved understanding and fewer redundant sections. n for QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program Appendix S Main Menu Option S - SET SCREEN DISPLAY COLORS. (Hidden Option) ____ ____ ______ _ _ ___ ______ _______ _______ This option - available, but not shown (hidden) on the Main Menu - is intended for those users who are not satisfied with the default colors in QLIB3, and who wish to change them to something more pleasing for themselves. It is only available when running QLIB3 on video graphics equipped computers, either color or monochrome graphics that are IBM color graphics card (CGA, EGA or VGA) compatible. It will not work on systems with monochrome display adapters (MDA, or Hercules mono) that the software cannot recognize as graphics compatible. Also, if you have only a monochrome display (Compaq portable or similar setup), you will probably be better off simply invoking QLIB3 with the M (monochrome) command line option (see Getting Started, Section 0, above) rather than trying to customize with this routine. It is, however, up to you. This routine is written to accept colors in plain English, with the computer internally converting the colors into the appropriate codes for its use. Upon choosing this option, QLIB3 will convert the current color codes in use into their English names, and display them on the screen as shown in Fig. S-10. /---------------------------------------------------------------\ | SELECT DISPLAY COLORS UTILITY ROUTINE | | Ver 2.0 Copyright 1988 CREATIVE RESOURCES | |---------------------------------------------------------------| | | | NORMAL VIDEO ** Valid Colors Are: ** | | TEXT BACKGROUND | | -------- -------- Black (N) Magenta (RB) | | WHITE+ BLACK Blue (B) Brown (GR) | | Green (G) White (W) | | REVERSE VIDEO Cyan (BG) Yellow (GR+) | | TEXT BACKGROUND Red (R) | | -------- -------- | | BLACK WHITE+ Add (+) to display most colors | | with high intensity... | | | \---------------------------------------------------------------/ ** Modify/Quit ** ( M/Q ) ? M Fig. S-10 Set Colors Selection / Entry Screen Fig. S-10 Set Colors Selection / Entry Screen Fig. S-10 Set Colors Selection / Entry Screen You may choose to modify the selections or to quit back to the Main Menu. CREATIVE RESOURCES - C-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - C-2 - 1988 Nov 22 CREATIVE RESOURCES - C-2 - 1988 Nov 22 QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program QLIB3 - P.C. User's Group Library/Catalog Program If you choose to modify the colors, the cursor will be placed on the first field, ready to accept your changes. Simply type in the desired color to be used and press <ret>. If an unrecognized color is entered, the program will so advise and ask if you wish to pick a color from a list. If you choose to pick, you will be presented with a window with all valid color choices and their associated codes. You need only use the cursor arrows to highlight the one desired and press <ret> to select it. Its name will be entered for you in the current field, and the cursor will move to the next field. This technique is often referred to as "point & shoot" selection. Continue for the remaining color choice fields, or hit <PgDn> when finished. You will then be asked if you wish to save these color selections. A <Y> answer will retain these colors for the rest of this session with QLIB3. If you answer <N>, the original colors will be re-displayed and you may either Modify them or Quit to the Main Menu. If you did save the new colors, you will then be asked if you wish to save these these selections for future sessions. If you answer <N>, the new colors will only be used for the remainder of this session of QLIB3, and will revert to their original values the next time you use the program. If you answer <Y>, the colors will be saved in a special file, COLORS.MEM, on the default data disk and directory, and will be used for all future sessions of QLIB3. Note: Once you have saved these colors into COLORS.MEM, its existence on the default data drive and directory will override any attempt to use QLIB3 in monochrome mode (unless you make the colors match the defaults used in monochrome mode). To change this, simply erase the COLORS.MEM file using the DOS command: DEL COLORS.MEM <ret> You may then start over with any other mode of color operation. n for