PC Open 12/pcopen12.iso/Win31/Infodex/INFODEXW.1/INFODEXW.DOC

Text File | 1997-05-20 | 53.9 KB | 1,339 lines

Infodex For Windows
Version 1.02

Copyright 1997 by

Stevenson Technical Services, Inc. (STSI)
108 Second Avenue West, PO Box 297
Bertha MN 56437-0297 USA
FAX: [phone], BBS: 218-924-2060
E-Mail: [e-mail]
Internet: http://www.stevetech.com


Welcome!

Infodex is a dynamic database manager used to keep track of names and
addresses, equipment, computer software, books, and more! Includes:
drag & drop layout, add, delete, or resize fields EASILY, import &
export delimited text files, text search in any field, print preview,
custom printing, sort by any field, quick browse, custom tab order,
record tagging & much more!

Please feel free to give us your feedback on Infodex.  We encourage
your comments, suggestions, and enhancement requests.  We can be
reached at the following locations:

Internet:        http://www.stevetech.com
E-Mail:                 [e-mail]
CompuServe:        76300,3066
FAX:            218-924-2050
BBS:            218-924-2060




Requirements

In order to run Infodex For Windows, you will need the following:

* Windows/Windows For Workgroups v3.1, Windows 95, or Windows NT
* Mouse




Disclaimer / License Agreement

What is shareware?

Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software before
buying it.  If you try a Shareware program and continue using it, you
are expected to register.  Individual programs differ on details - some
request registration while others require it, some specify a maximum
trial period.  With registration, you get anything from the simple
right to continue using the software to an updated program with printed
manual.

Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial software, and the
copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific exceptions as
stated below.  Shareware authors are accomplished programmers, just
like commercial authors, and the programs are of comparable quality.
(In both cases, there are good programs and bad ones!)  The main
difference is in the method of distribution.  The author specifically
grants the right to copy and distribute the software, either to all or
to a specific group. For example, some authors require written
permission before a commercial disk vendor may copy their Shareware.

Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software.  You should
find software that suits your needs and pocketbook, whether it's
commercial or Shareware.  The Shareware system makes fitting your needs
easier, because you can try before you buy.  And because the overhead
is low, prices are low also.  Shareware has the ultimate money-back
guarantee - if you don't use the product, you don't pay for it.


Disclaimer - Agreement

By using Infodex and/or any of its components, users indicate their
acceptance of the following terms:

"Infodex is supplied as is.  The author disclaims all warranties,
expressed or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of
merchantability and of fitness for any purpose.  Neither STSI, The STSI
BBS, or any STSI employees will be held responsible for any damages,
direct or consequential, which may result from the use of Infodex
and/or any of its components."

"Information in this documentation is subject to change without notice
and does not represent a commitment on the part of STSI.  STSI may make
improvements and/or changes in this documentation or in the products
and/or programs described in this documentation at any time."

Infodex is a "shareware program" and is provided at no charge to the
user for evaluation.  Feel free to share it with your friends, but
please do not give it away altered or as part of another system.  The
essence of "user-supported" software is to provide personal computer
users with quality software without high prices, and yet to provide
incentive for programmers to continue to develop new products.  If you
find this program useful and find that you are using Infodex and
continue to use Infodex after a reasonable trial period, you must make
a registration payment of $34.95 (+S&H) to Stevenson Technical
Services, Inc. (STSI).  This registration fee will license one copy for
use on any one computer at any one time.  You must treat this software
just like a book.  An example is that this software may be used by any
number of people and may be freely moved from one computer location to
another, so long as there is no possibility of it being used at one
location while it's being used at another.  Just as a book cannot be
read by two different persons at the same time, Infodex should not be
used on two different computers at the same time.

Commercial users of Infodex must register and pay for their copies of
Infodex within 30 days of first use or their license is withdrawn.
Site- License arrangements may be made by contacting STSI at
[e-mail].

Anyone distributing Infodex for any kind of remuneration must first
contact STSI for authorization.  This authorization will be
automatically granted to distributors recognized by the (ASP) as
adhering to its guidelines for shareware distributors, and such
distributors may begin offering Infodex immediately.  (However STSI
must still be advised so that the distributor can be kept up-to-date
with the latest version of Infodex.)

You are encouraged to pass a copy of Infodex along to your friends for
evaluation.  Please encourage them to register their copy if they find
that they can use it.  All registered users will receive a copy of the
latest version of the Infodex, along with a printed manual.




ASP Notice:

STSI is a member of the Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP).
ASP wants to make sure that the shareware principle works for you.  If
you are unable to resolve a shareware-related problem with an ASP
member by contacting the member directly, ASP may be able to help.  The
ASP Ombudsman can help you resolve a dispute or problem with an ASP
member, but does not provide technical support for members' products.
Please write to the ASP Ombudsman at 545 Grover Road, Muskegon, MI
49442-9427 USA, FAX [phone] or send a CompuServe message via
CompuServe Mail to ASP Ombudsman 70007,3536.




Registration

Infodex For Windows is distributed under the shareware concept.  You
may try Infodex for a period of two weeks.  After this period, you must
either discontinue using it, or register it.  A single-user license is
only $49.95 (+$5.00 Shipping & Handling in the U.S., or $10.00 Shipping
& Handling on Foreign Orders).  (For network or site-license pricing,
see the file REGISTER.DOC.)  This price includes a printed manual, a 3
1/2" diskette containing the latest version, removal of nag screens and
the 50-record database limit, along with a Registration Name and Number
allowing you to register your copy of Infodex.

An e-mail registration option is available for users who do not need a
manual and disk sent to them.  A single-user e-mail registration costs
$39.95 (no shipping & handling fees apply).  Simply send PRIVATE
CompuServe mail to 76300,3066 (or use internet mail at your own risk:
[e-mail]).  Tell us that you want to register Infodex For
Windows and give us your name, address, telephone number, credit card
number, and expiration date.  As soon as we process your credit card
information, we'll send you a registration code good for all version
1.x releases of Infodex For Windows.

For those of you who would like to register using SWREG on CompuServe,
Infodex is Registration ID #14453.  Since CompuServe charges us a fee
for this service, the registration price when using SWREG is $59.95
(+S&H).  Once registered, you will no longer see the nag screens,
reminding you to register Infodex.  For further registration
information and pricing, please read the REGISTER.DOC file included
with Infodex.

Upgrade Policy

If you are a registered user of Infodex For DOS version 1.x, you can
upgrade to Infodex For Windows version 1.x for a small fee.  A single-
user upgrade is only $30.00 (disk & manual included) or $20.00 for an
e-mail upgrade (see above for an explanation of registering via e-
mail).




How To Order

Due to the nature of our business, we are not always available to
answer telephone calls, and ask that you register by using one of the
options given below.   As soon as we receive your order, we will
process your credit card information and send you a registration code
via e-mail to unlock all of the program's features.  To register, do
ONE of the following (whichever you prefer):

1. Use our online registration form on our web site at
http://www.stevetech.com.  Although this is not a secure server (credit
card information is not protected), you can simply enter CALL in the
credit card number field, and one of our employees will call you back
for your credit card information.

2. Call The STSI BBS at 218-924-2060 and order online.  We accept Visa,
MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit cards.  This method
of ordering can be performed 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.  (Ordering
this way is fast and easy, allowing us to process your request
quickly.)

3. You can FAX your order to 218-924-2050.  Simply fill out the
registration form provided with the program (REGISTER.DOC), include
your credit card information on the bottom of the form, and sign it.
(Most FAX transmissions will be automatically routed to the FAX
machine.  If you have problems reaching our FAX machine, wait until
after the first ring, press 11, and then begin transmitting.)

4. Send PRIVATE CompuServe mail to 76300,3066, stating that you would
like to register this program.  Please include your name, address,
telephone number, credit card number, and credit card expiration date.
Also include the name you want the program registered to, such as your
company's name, etc.  If you want to receive a temporary registration
code that can be used until you receive your order in the mail, simply
request this, as well.  (Comments and questions are also welcome when
you place your order.)

5. Mail the registration form along with your payment to:

Stevenson Technical Services, Inc. (STSI)
108 2nd Avenue West, PO Box 297
Bertha, MN 56437-0297 USA.





Technical Support:

Technical support is available through the following means:

Internet:
Access STSI's internet home page at http://www.stevetech.com.  Check
the bulletins for information on the latest versions of our software.
Software updates can be downloaded through our web site or via
anonymous ftp to ftp.stevetech.com (files are located in the \pub
directory).


Internet Mail:
STSI will respond to messages sent via the Internet.  Send any tech
support related questions, comments, or suggestions to
[e-mail]. Our typical response time is a couple of hours.
(Some responses may take longer either due to the nature of the
question, or the fact that we are out of the office.)


The STSI BBS:
New versions of this program will be posted here as soon as they are
available.  The STSI BBS uses a U.S. Robotics V.Everything modem, which
is capable of V.FAST, V.32bis, V.32, and 2400 baud connect speeds.  The
access number for The STSI BBS is 218-924-2060.  Technical support
questions posted on the bulletin board system should be addressed to
Craig Stevenson.


STSI FAX:
STSI has a FAX machine on-line 24 hours-a-day to accept FAX
transmissions.  Technical support questions / problems may be faxed to
218-924-2050.  Most FAX transmissions will be automatically routed to
the FAX machine.  If you have problems reaching our FAX machine, wait
until after the first ring, press 11, and then begin transmitting.


Telephone:
Due to the nature of our business, we are not always available to
answer telephone calls, and ask that you obtain technical support
through one of the other methods outlined above.  We strongly suggest
that you contact us via e-mail when possible.


Please read the following before requesting technical support:

1. Read the documentation files (and the help screens, if available).
Most questions can be answered by simply reading the docs.

2. Make sure you have the newest version of the program.  To do this,
go to our web site at http://www.stevetech.com.  After you download the
latest version, try it and see if you are still experiencing the same
problem.  We attempt to fix problems as soon as we become aware of
them, and post the updated versions on our web site.   (Check the
revision file (with the extension .rev) for information on feature
enhancements and bug-fixes.)

3. If you still cannot find an answer, contact us through one of the
means outlined above.  We will do our best to assist you and answer any
questions you may have.  We attempt to answer all questions within 24
hours, whether they are received via  internet mail, CompuServe mail,
our BBS, or FAX.  We are sorry, but we cannot accept technical support
questions by phone.

4. When contacting us, please be prepared to answer the following
questions:  What version of this program are you using?  What
problem(s) are you having, if any?  What type of computer CPU do you
have (486DX2-66, etc.)?  What version of DOS are you using?  Please be
as specific as possible.  The more specific you are, the faster we will
be able to assist you.

5. When corresponding with any of our employees, please be considerate.
Explain your problem as carefully as possible.

6. If one of our employees is able to help you, and you continue to use
this program, register it!  We cannot continue to produce quality
programs without the continuing support of our users.





Installing Infodex

The installation procedure for Infodex is quite simple.  The package
includes a program, "SETUP.EXE", which automates the entire process.
You will need about 1 megabyte of available disk space on the hard
drive on which you plan to install Infodex.

The exact steps you need to take will depend on how you received
Infodex.


    Installing From Diskettes

To install from diskette(s), you need to perform the following steps.

1. Place Infodex distribution diskette "Disk 1" in the appropriate
diskette drive.

2. From Program Manager, select Run. Execute the "SETUP.EXE" program on
the distribution diskette. For example, if the distribution diskette is
on drive A:, type the command, "a:setup".

3. Follow the instructions presented by the setup program. You will
have a chance to approve installation before any changes are actually
made to the contents of your hard drive. The program will ask you for a
destination directory, and will copy the Infodex files to that
directory.


    Installing From A Hard Drive

If you downloaded Infodex from a BBS (or received it in the form of
archive files from some other source), you will need to perform the
following steps.

1. Extract the contents of the archive file(s) in a temporary directory
on your hard drive.  The procedure for doing this varies, depending on
the form in which you received the package. In all likelihood, the fact
that you are reading this text means that you already have the
necessary tools and knowledge to perform this step.  If not, you should
be able to obtain directions for this from the same source from which
you received the package.

2. From Program Manager, select Run.  Execute the "SETUP.EXE" program
which you have extracted.  For example, if the temporary directory into
which you have extracted the files is C:\TEMPDIR, you would type the
command, "c:\tempdir\setup".

3. Follow the instructions presented by the installation program. You
will have a chance to approve installation before any changes are
actually made to the contents of your hard drive.  The installation
program will ask you for a destination directory, and will copy the
program files to that directory.

When you're satisfied that the installation was successful, you should
delete the temporary directory FROM which you installed the program,
(C:\TEMPDIR, in the above discussion), including all its contents.

Note :  If you are upgrading from a previous version, Infodex will
issue a warning before overwriting the file INFODEXW.INI.  If you have
already set up your registration information and user preferences in
Infodex, answer "N" (No) to instruct the setup program not to overwrite
this file.  When the installation is complete, a message box will be
displayed, and when you select Ok the setup program will terminate.

If you are upgrading from Infodex For DOS, you will want to install
Infodex For Windows into a NEW directory, and copy your existing
database files into the new directory.  Databases cannot be shared
between the DOS and Windows versions of Infodex.  Once you open a
database with Infodex For Windows, it can no longer be used by Infodex
For DOS.




Limitations

Non-Registered Version:
The non-registered version of Infodex imposes a limit of 50 records per
database.  This record limit is sufficient to allow our users to see if
Infodex will meet their needs.

Registered  Version:
One of the most common questions we receive is "How many messages can
be stored in a database when I order the registered version?".

The theoretical record limit for Infodex is 2,147,483,647 (just over 2
billion).  However, due to the 2 gigabyte file size limitation of 16-
bit applications, the practical limit is dependent on the size of the
database structure.  If your database consumes 250 bytes of storage for
each record, the practical limit would be about 8.6 million records.
Likewise, if your database consumes 1000 bytes of storage for each
record, the practical limit would be about 2.1 million records.





Creating A New Database

To create a new database, select the New speed button or click on New
on the File menu.  A dialog box will pop up allowing you to enter a
name and description for the new database you will create.  Next, you
should select the type of database template you want to use.  To make
database creation as easy as possible, Infodex provides several pre-
defined templates for you to use.  You can choose from Business Lite,
Business Standard, Business Comprehensive, Equipment, Library,
Passwords, and Software.  If you want to create a database without
using any of the predefined templates, select Custom.

If you chose one of the predefined templates, Infodex will create the
new database and allow you to start adding records.  If you chose to
create a Custom template, Infodex will display the layout screen.  This
is where you will create your database, and place the fields where you
want them.  To create a new field, click on the Add Field button on the
left side of the screen.


Add Field

Field Name
The Field Name contains the name of the field that you want to add.
This text will appear beside the field you are creating.  If you don't
want the text to appear beside the new field, deselect the Show Caption
field.  Use this field for descriptive information about what is
contained in the actual field, such as Name, Address, City, etc.


Field Type
Infodex currently supports the following field types: String (field can
contain up to 255 characters of alpha-numeric text), Number, Date,
Time, Check Box, and Memo.  Memo fields can contain alpha-numeric text
with a maximum size of 65,530 characters.  A typical size for memo
fields is 1,000 - 2,000 characters.  Memo fields are helpful for
entering information that does not fit very well in any other field.


Character Case
For String fields, use this field to select whether you want the
contents of the field to be displayed in upper case, lower case, or
normal case (as entered).


Field Length
This field should contain the maximum length of any text that will be
entered.  If you create a Name field, and only specify a field length
of 20 characters, you will not be able to enter names longer than 20
characters. (If you need to lengthen a field after the database has
been created, Infodex will allow you to do this.  So if you aren't sure
about the field length, take your best guess, and change it later if
you need to.)


Decimal Places
If you are creating a number field, you can change the number of
decimal places that should be displayed.  The default is zero.


Column Width
This field should contain the width (in pixels) of the column when it
is displayed in the browser.  The default value is the same as the
Field Width.


Field Top
Enter the location, in pixels, where the top of the field should be
placed on the database screen.


Field Left
Enter the location, in pixels, where the left side of the field should
be placed on the database screen.


Field Width
Enter the display width of the field, in pixels, on the database
screen.


Field Height
Enter the display height of the field, in pixels, on the database
screen.  All fields should have a default value of 20, except for memo
fields, which you may want to be taller than a normal field.


Show Caption
If you want the field caption to be displayed on the database screen,
this option should be checked.  To prevent Infodex from displaying the
field caption on the database screen, deselect this check box.


Caption Top
Enter the location, in pixels, where the top of the caption should be
placed on the database screen.


Caption Left
Enter the location, in pixels, where the left side of the caption
should be placed on the database screen.




Delete Field
The Delete Field button should be used when you want to remove a field
from the database.  When you select Delete Field, a dialog box will be
displayed showing you a list of all of the fields in the database.
Highlight the field you want to delete, and click Ok.  After confirming
your decision, Infodex will remove the field from the database and the
screen.


Properties
The Properties button should be used when you want to edit an existing
database field.  You can also access a field's properties by
positioning your mouse over the field, right-clicking on it, and
selecting Properties from the popup menu.  Change the settings you want
to alter, and click Ok to save your changes.


Done
Click on the Done button when you have finished adding, editing, and
deleting fields in your database.  Infodex will create the database for
you, and bring you to the database editing screen.


Cancel
Click on the Cancel button if you want to discard the database you have
started to create.


Four-Way Arrows
Use the four-way arrows when you want to move all fields,
simultaneously, in any given directory.  The fields will move, one
pixel at a time, up, down, left, or right, depending on the arrow you
click on.


Click on the Add Field button each time you want to add a new field to
your database.  If you want to delete an existing field, click on the
Delete Field button, and select the field you want to delete from the
list box that Infodex displays.  Once you delete the field, Infodex
will remove it from the screen.

When you are finished adding fields to the database, select Done.
Infodex will save the layout information and create the new database.
When Infodex creates a new database, several supporting files are
created. If the database filename is "TEST"(.DAT), the files that
Infodex would create are as follows:


TEST.DAT
This file contains the actual data for the database.  This file is
crucial to the integrity of the database.


TEST.IX
This file contains the indexes, or searching information to allow
Infodex to quickly locate a needed record in the database.  If this
file should become lost or corrupt, Infodex will automatically
regenerate it for you.


TEST.DIA
This file manages multiple access to the database in multitasking and
network environments.


TEST.LDB
This is the layout database, and contains information about the
structure of the database file.  This file is also crucial to the
database integrity, ensuring that Infodex can read the data that has
been previously written.


TEST.LIX
This file contains the indexes, or searching information to allow
Infodex to quickly locate needed information in the layout database.
If this file should become lost or corrupt, Infodex will automatically
regenerate it for you.


TEST.LDI
This file manages multiple access to the layout database in
multitasking and network environments.


TEST.INI
This file contains additional information about the database, such as
the last size and position of the Browser screen, the current sort
field, and the database description.


TEST.MSG
In the event that an error would occur while rebuilding or working with
the database, you may find a file in your Infodex sub-directory with a
.MSG extension.  This file should contain information about any
error(s) that occurred.  (If this should occur, copy this file to a
backup location for safe-keeping and send a copy of it on a diskette to
STSI for evaluation.)

Once the database is created, you can begin adding records to the
database.  Infodex will display the main editing screen, where you add,
edit, and delete information from the database, browse through records,
and search for data in specific fields.




The File Menu


New Database
Select this option to create a new database with Infodex.  Infodex will
prompt you for the name and description of the database to create.  You
can also select whether or not you want to use a predefined template.
If you choose Custom, you will be allowed to design the database layout
for yourself.


Open Database
Select this option to open a database previously created with Infodex
For Windows.  Infodex will display a file dialog box to prompt you for
the name of the database to open.  Once you select a file, Infodex will
check whether the database was created with Infodex For DOS or Infodex
For Windows.  If it was created with Infodex For DOS, it will be
converted to the new format automatically.


Close Database
This command will close a database that is open on the desktop.  If
more than 1 database is open, the focus will move to the next open
database.  Otherwise, Infodex will simply clear the desktop area and
display the Infodex Database screen.


Utilities

Delete Database
This command will give you the option of deleting a database from your
hard drive.

Reorganize Database
The reorganize option provides two extremely useful functions.

The first function deals with a database that has become corrupt.  If
one or more records become corrupt within the database, you will
probably see "garbage" characters, or random ASCII characters filling
the data fields.  Although this is rare, we did have one customer
report this problem after running out of hard drive space during an
import.  The customer was unable to delete the corrupt record from the
database using the "Delete" option, but was able to successfully
reorganize the database.  The reorganization process removed the
corrupt record(s), and left the rest of the (non-corrupt) records
intact.

The second function is simply for packing the database.  Once records
have been deleted from a database, the area previously used by these
records remains empty until new records are added.  If a substantial
number of records have been deleted, you may want to reorganize the
database to physically remove this unused space.

Before reorganizing a database, Infodex will make a backup copy of the
database and index files, as a safeguard against any potential problems
(such as system hangs during the reorganization, which could be fatal
to the database).  Infodex will create a temporary directory underneath
the main program directory, and copy the database files into this
directory.  Once this is complete, the reorganization process will
start.  To reorganize the database, Infodex deletes the index (.IX)
file, renames the main data file (.DAT) to a save file (.SAV), and
copies non-deleted messages from the save file into a newly created
data file.  Once this is complete, the save file is deleted, and a new
index file is generated.  This process may only take a minute or two
for a database that has a couple thousand records, but will take much
longer for larger databases.  (Our largest database, which contains
over 336,000 records took 6-8 hours to reorganize!)  After the process
has finished successfully, Infodex will ask you whether or not you want
to delete the backup copy created earlier.  If you are satisfied that
no errors occurred, go ahead and answer yes to delete this backup copy.


Exit Infodex
Use this command to exit out of Infodex and close all open databases.
Any open databases are automatically closed down when you exit.



The Records Menu

First
Pushing the First button will cause the first record in the database to
be displayed.


Previous
Pushing the Previous button will cause the record previous to the
current record to be displayed.  If the current record is the first one
in the database, Infodex "wraps" to the last record in the database.


Next
Pushing the Next button will cause the record subsequent to the current
record to be displayed.  If the current record is the last one in the
database, Infodex "wraps" to the first record in the database.


Last
Pushing the Last button will cause the last record in the database to
be displayed.


Browse
Browsing for records can be a quick way to view the record data, giving
you a general idea of what is contained in the record.  When this
option is selected, Infodex displays a browsing screen that contains
all of the records in the database.  To scroll through the browser, use
the Up Arrow, Down Arrow, PgUp, and PgDn keys, or the mouse to scroll
through all of the messages.  Pressing ENTER or double-clicking on the
highlighted record will erase the browser and cause Infodex to display
the selected record on the database screen for viewing, editing, or
deleting.  To tag or untag the highlighted message, press the F10 key.

Incremental searching can be performed in the browser by typing the
text you want to locate.  This text must be located at the beginning of
the current sort field.  As you type more characters, the records that
are displayed are narrowed down.  For example, if your database is
sorted by a field called "Company Name", and you type the letter "M",
the browser will display only the records whose company name starts
with the letter "M".  Then, if you press the letter "I", the browser
will display only the records whose text starts with the letters "MI".
Similarly, you can continue to type "MICROSOFT" and find an exact
company name.

A popup menu is displayed when you click the right mouse button inside
the browser window.  The browser popup menu allows you to change the
column order, which field the database is sorted by, and whether or not
the highlighted record is tagged or untagged.


Sort
An Infodex database can be sorted by any field in the database.  The
default sort field is the first one that you created.  To change the
current sort field, click on the sort button.  A dialog box will be
displayed showing you all of the fields in the database.  Highlight the
desired sort field, and click Ok.




Search
When the Search option is selected, Infodex will search the entire
database for up to 9 text strings and 3 excluded text strings.  You can
use this option to create a combination of And/Or/Not requirements.
These requirements will allow you filter out which records should
appear in your search results.  The text strings you enter can be
located at ANY location within the record.  They do not have to be at
the start of an indexed field.

There are 4 groups of text fields, and each group contains a check box
allowing you to make the search either case-sensitive or case-
insensitive, with case-insensitive being the default.  If Replicator
locates the text anywhere within the record (including the filename,
image path, description, or file list), it is included in the search
results.  The only exception to this rule occurs when text entered in
the last group is found in the record, since these strings are excluded
from the search results.  When Infodex searches the database and a
record is found that contains the search string, it is marked and
placed in a search results group.  After the search has been completed,
you can browse through the search results records using the Browser
window.




Print
To print the current record, all tagged records, or all records within
the database, select the Print button.  A Print Records dialog box will
be displayed, allowing you to select the destination printer, the print
range, layout, and miscellaneous printing options.




Print Setup
The Print Setup dialog box allows you to configure which printer is
used as the default printer for Infodex.


Import
Infodex has support to import a delimited text file into an existing
Infodex database.  When you select the Import button, Infodex displays
a dialog box allowing you to modify the text and field delimiters for
the ascii file, and specify what the name of the output file should be.
Infodex will then "fetch" the first set of fields from delimited ascii
file.  You can then select which fields from the delimited ascii file
should be imported into the database, and match them up with the
appropriate target fields.  When you are ready to start importing data,
click on the Start button.  If the target field is a date, time, or
number field, Infodex will attempt to convert the value in the ascii
field to a valid date, time, or number, respectively.  If Infodex
cannot convert the value to a proper date, time, or number, then a
default value will be assigned (the current date, current time, or the
number 0).




Export
Infodex allows you to export all records in the database into a
delimited text file.  When you select the Export button, Infodex
displays a dialog box allowing you to modify the text and field
delimiters for the file, and specify what the name of the output file
should be.  You can also specify whether a text delimiter is added to
numeric fields, or whether it is eliminated altogether.




Database Options
The Database Options screen can be used to change the Database
Description for the currently open database.  This was the description
you entered when you first created the database.  To change it, enter
the new description on this screen and select Ok.





The Edit Menu


Add
When this button is pushed, Infodex goes into "edit mode", and allows
you to add a new record to the database.  When Infodex is in edit mode,
you cannot move between records, delete records, call up the browser,
or search for data.  Once you have finished adding the new record,
click on "Save" to save it into the database, or select "Cancel" to
exit from edit Mode.


Edit
When this button is pushed, Infodex goes into "edit mode", and allows
you to modify the current record.  When Infodex is in edit mode, you
cannot move between records, delete records, call up the browser, or
search for data.  Once you have finished modifying the current record,
click on "Save" to save the modified record into the database, or
select "Cancel" to exit from Edit Mode.  If you have made any changes,
Infodex will issue a prompt to make sure that you don't want to save
any changes before leaving.


Delete
When the Delete button is selected, Infodex issues a prompt to confirm
that you want to delete the current record from the database.  When you
choose "Yes" at the prompt, the record is deleted, and Infodex moves to
the next record in the database.


Save
When the Save button is selected, Infodex will save the current record
into the database.  This button is only enabled when adding or editing
a database record.


Cancel
When the Cancel button is selected, Infodex will Cancel the editing
process, exit from edit mode, and redisplay the current record.  This
button is only enabled when adding or editing a database record.




The Tagged Menu


Delete Tagged:
The Delete Tagged feature allows you remove all tagged records from the
current database.  As with any operation that is performed on tagged
records, a status screen will be displayed as Infodex performs the
operation.


Print Tagged:
The Print Tagged option displays the same print dialog box that is
available from the print menu.  However, the default range is
automatically set to Tagged Records instead of Current Record.


Tag All:
The Tag All feature can be used in an attempt to tag all records in the
database.  However, it is important to mention that Infodex currently
allows a maximum of 16,384 records to be tagged at one time.  If there
are more than 16,384 records in the current database, Infodex will warn
you, and then attempt to tag as many as possible.  Once it reaches the
limit, it stops the tagging process.  If you need to tag more messages
than this, you will have to tag the first set, perform an operation,
tag the second set, perform the operation again, etc.  However, this
need should be extremely rare.


Untag All:
When the Untag All option is selected, Infodex will remove the tag mark
from all tagged records in the current database.  If you perform one of
the two main operations mentioned above (Delete Tagged, or Print
Tagged), you can optionally remove the record tag once the operation is
completed.  However, you can use the Untag All feature to quickly
remove all tags without performing one of these operations.





The Layout Menu

Tab Order
To change the tab order of the field on the database screen, click on
the Tab Order button.  A dialog box will appear, allowing you to
rearrange the database fields, indicating the proper tabbing order.  To
move items around in the list, highlight an item and click the Up or
Down button, or else click and drag the item to the new destination.




Modify Layout
By clicking on the Layout button, you can modify the database layout
for the current database.  This includes adding, deleting, renaming,
repositioning, and changing the size of the fields in the database.


Save Layout
When you are done modifying the database layout, you can either click
on the Done button or select the Save Layout option from the Layout
menu.  (The Done button appears as soon as you start modifying the
database layout.


Add Field
To add a field to the database, click on the Add Field button or select
the Add Field option from the Layout menu.  When you add a field,
Infodex reorganizes the database, physically adding space for the new
field at the end of the record structure.


Delete Field
To delete a field from the database, click on the Delete Field button
or select the Delete Field option from the Layout menu.  Infodex will
prompt you for confirmation before deleting the field from the
database.  When you delete a field, Infodex reorganizes the database,
physically removing the selected field.


Field Properties
To edit the properties of an existing database field, click on the
Properties button or select the Field Properties option from the Layout
menu.  Although you cannot change the field type of an existing field,
you can change the field and caption placement, height, width, whether
or not the caption is displayed, the column width in the browser, the
character case of string fields (Normal, Upper, or Lower), and the
number of decimal places displayed on numeric fields.





Preferences


Description
The options on this screen determine the default behavior of Infodex on
your computer system.  Highlight the option on the left side of the
screen to view its setting on the right side of the screen.


Browser Refresh Delay
This number specifies the number of seconds that Infodex will use as an
update interval when displaying the browser screen.  If this value is
set to 5, Infodex will update the browser screen every 5 seconds with
any changes that have made from other workstations working on the same
database file.


Confirm Before Deleting Record
Although this feature can be extremely dangerous, it was requested by
one of our users.  By default, Infodex prompts you to confirm the
deletion of a record before it actually removes the record from the
database.  If you prefer not to be prompted for a confirmation before
deleting a record, disable this option.  Be very careful with this!
Deleted records cannot be undeleted!


Confirm Before Exiting Infodex
When this option is enabled, Infodex will prompt users for confirmation
before they exit the
application.  When it is disabled, Infodex will exit without displaying
a confirmation dialog box.


Database Optimization
This option is used to specify whether Infodex should optimize database
management for Data Integrity or Speed. If Optimize For Data Integrity
is chosen, access to certain routines may be impacted by a reduction in
speed. If Optimize For Speed is chosen, Infodex will attempt to
optimize access to routines without a reduction in speed.

When Optimize For Data Integrity is enabled, Infodex will write
portions of the database to be modified to the dialog (.DIA) file
before any changes are made.  Then, in the event that an error occurs,
the database can be restored to its known state prior to the operation.
If the computer system crashes before an operation is complete, Infodex
automatically repairs the database by using the information in the
dialog file the next time the database is opened.

Based on our internal testing, Optimize For Speed is MUCH faster,
especially when adding records to the database.  If you decide to use
Optimize For Speed, however, we recommend that you maintain a regular
backup.  If you are more concerned about data integrity, even to the
point of sacrificing some performance, select Optimize For Data
Integrity.


Date Format
Select the date format that you prefer to use with Infodex.  While
American users may prefer the mm/dd/yy format, foreign users may prefer
one of the other available formats.  Keep in mind that when entering
records into a database, you must enter the date in the format used in
this field.


Duplicate Record Checking
When this option is enabled, Infodex will attempt to check for
duplicate records before adding a new record to the database.  This
feature does not provide an exact-match check, but rather, a general
"most of the fields appear to match" check.  That way, you can be given
a warning if you are about to enter a duplicate record.  Turn this
option off to disable this feature.


Fast Search
When the Fast Search option is enabled, the search speed is increased
substantially when performing a text search on the database.  To do
this, Infodex places a "Read Lock" on the entire database to prevent
other users from writing to it.  This can produce search speeds up to 3
times as fast as when Fast Search is disabled.  However, if Fast Search
is enabled, other users CANNOT make changes to the database when
another user is performing this type of search.  Network supervisors
should consider this situation carefully before enabling the Fast
Search option.


Field Name Font Style
Select the type of formatting you want to see on the field names on the
database screen.  The default value is normal, but you can configure
Infodex to display them as Bold, Italic, Underline, or any combination
of the three.  This may make it easier to find the field names on the
screen.


Import Path
Enter the default path where import files can be found on your computer
system.  If you import many files, you may want to configure this field
to contain the directory of the most used import location.  Otherwise,
the Infodex directory will be used.

Import Path
Enter the default path where import files can be found on your computer
system.  If you import many files, you may want to configure this field
to contain the directory of the most used import location.  Otherwise,
the Infodex directory will be used.


Maximum Browser Columns
Enter the maximum number of columns that should be displayed in the
browser window for any given database.  If a database contains an
excessive number of columns, clicking on the Browse button could cause
a significant delay before the browser is displayed.  To circumvent
this problem, it is wise to set an upper limit for the number of
columns that should be displayed.  The default value is 20.  If you
have more than 20 fields in your database, columns 21 and above simply
would not be displayed in the browser.


Network Type
Even if you don't use a network, you may need to change the default
Network Type from None to the MS-Net Compatible option.  Make sure to
read the following section!

None:
When "None" is selected as the network type,  file sharing and record
locking routines are not used.  Do NOT run Infodex in a multiuser
setting with the network type set to "None".  If you do, the data and
index files are likely to become corrupt if two or more nodes try to
access the program!

Novell:
If you are running on a Novell NetWare 2.x, 3.x, or 4.x network, be
sure to set the network type setting to "Novell Network".

MS-Net:
The "MS-Net Compatible" setting should be used for the following
networks and environments: LANtastic, LAN Manager, IBM PC-LAN, Personal
NetWare, NetWare Lite, DESQview, and Windows.  When using this option,
you must load SHARE.EXE.  (When running under Windows, either SHARE
must be loaded prior to running Windows, or the VSHARE driver must be
loaded in Windows.)


Startup Database
If a valid filename is entered in this field, Infodex will attempt to
load the specified database each time it is executed.  The only
exception to this rule is if a different filename is entered on the
command line when Infodex is executed.  If Infodex detects that a
filename has been entered as a parameter on the command line, it will
open that filename instead of the one specified in the Startup Database
field.


Startup Tips:
By default, the Startup Tips screen is displayed each time Infodex is
executed.  Users can browse through the available tips using the Next
and Previous buttons.  Some users may prefer not to see these tips when
Infodex is executed.  To turn off the Tips, disable this option.


Time Format
Select the time format that you prefer to use with Infodex.  Keep in
mind that when entering records into a database, you must enter times
in the format used in this field.






Register Infodex


Description
Once you register Infodex and pay the requested fee to STSI for
registering, you will receive a registration name and number.  Enter
your name and number in the fields shown on this screen, and Infodex
will be registered to you.  You will no longer see "nag screens" or
"reminders" pressuring you to register.  If your name and number are
entered accurately, Infodex will display a thank-you message.
Otherwise, Infodex will warn you that the registration number you
entered was not valid.


Registration Name
The Registration Name text field allows users to enter their personal
name or the name of their company or organization.


Registration Number
The Registration Number text field allows users to enter the
registration number they received from STSI upon registering Infodex.
For information on how to register, please see the "Registration"
section of the documentation.


Network Users
This field contains the numbers of network users for Infodex.  To
receive a registration number that provides support for network users,
see the file REGISTER.DOC.  If you are registering a single-user
version of Infodex, enter 0 in this field.





The Window Menu

Cascade:
The cascade command allows you to display all open database windows
using a cascaded appearance.  This allows you to see the header of all
open database windows, and click on the one you want to view.


Tile:
The tile command allows you to display all open database windows using
a tiled appearance.  This way, each window is visible within the
desktop.


Arrange Icons:
When more than one database is open in Infodex, you can minimize each
window, and display it as an icon within the desktop area.  When more
than one window is minimized, the arrange icons command will arrange
the minimized icons within the desktop area.


Minimize All:
If database windows are open within the desktop area, selecting
Minimize All will cause all of the open databases to appear as icons
within the Infodex desktop.





Cautions

As with any program that maintains large amounts of data, there is the
possibility for data loss.  Infodex contains special precautions, such
as having the ability to rebuild the database index if it should become
corrupt.  However, regular data backups are strongly recommended.  Hard
drives can fail, files can become corrupt, and data loss can occur.
Your best protection is a regular (verified) backup!

If your computer system should hang while you are reorganizing a
database with Infodex, you may find some backup files left over in a
temporary Infodex directory. These files will be located in a directory
with a name such as TEMP0001, TEMP0002, etc.  If the reorganization
failed, you will want to manually restore these files.  Simply copy
them over the top of the files in the Infodex directory.  You can then
delete the temporary directory and all of its contents.





Products By STSI

Stevenson Technical Services, Inc.
108 Second Avenue West
Bertha MN 56437-0297
FAX: [phone]
The STSI BBS: [phone]
Internet: http://www.stevetech.com
Internet Mail: [e-mail]
(Visa, MasterCard, American Express, & Discover Accepted)


BOOT'R - DOS Multiple Configuration Manager
BOOT'R allows the management of multiple configurations on a single
machine. BOOT'R can modify the CONFIG.SYS, AUTOEXEC.BAT, and more.
Modify up to 5 files for each configuration. Useful for changing files
such as NET.CFG too! Ideal for creating custom configurations for
memory-hungry games. Easy to use push-button interface w/mouse support!
Online reference tools!
Registration Fee: $34.95


CompuSlave For Windows - Master Your Messages!
CompuSlave imports CompuServe forum messages from a capture file into a
database.  Search the entire database for key words or phrases.  Create
your own stand-alone, customized technical support resource using the
combined knowledge of the CompuServe forum members.  Ideal tool for
tech support personnel, programmers, network administrators, or any
user who routinely searches the CompuServe forum messages for
information.  Easy to use Windows interface!  Sample import file is
included.  Documentation contains helpful hints on how to create a
CompuServe forum message capture file.
Registration Fee: $49.95


Infodex For DOS - Multipurpose Database!
Infodex is a versatile database manager used to keep track of names and
addresses, equipment, computer software, books, and much more!
Includes a FREE-FORM layout.  Add, delete, or rearrange fields EASILY!
Search for text in any field.  Import and export to a delimited text
file.  Quickly browse through a list of records.  Easy push button
interface!  Both protected-mode and real-mode versions are included to
support various memory requirements.
Registration Fee: $34.95


Infodex For Windows - Multipurpose Database!
Infodex is a versatile database manager used to keep track of names and
addresses, equipment, computer software, books, and more! Includes:
drag & drop layout, add, delete, or resize fields EASILY, import &
export delimited text files, text search in any field, print preview,
custom printing, sort by any field, quick browse, custom tab order,
record tagging & much more!
Registration Fee: $49.95


Replicator For DOS - The Diskette Database / Duplicator!
Replicator is a disk image utility designed to create images of
diskettes and catalog them in a database.  Use optional compression to
reduce the image size.  Recreate disks as needed.  Store up to 10 lines
of descriptive text for each disk image in the database.  Database
entries can be modified at any time.  Easy push button interface!  (286
or higher)
Registration Fee: $49.95


Replicator For Windows - The Diskette Database / Duplicator!
Replicator is a disk image utility designed to create images of
diskettes and catalog them in a database.  Optionally compress image
files and scan disks for viruses.  Recreate disks as needed.  Store up
to 10 lines of descriptive text for each disk image in the database.
Database entries can be modified at any time.  Network support
included.  Easy to use Windows interface!
Registration Fee: $49.95


ZIP'R Pro For DOS - Compression Utility For DOS!
ZIP'R Pro stores programs in compressed form when they are not being
used. Use ZIP'R Pro to automatically decompress a program, execute it,
and recompress it again. Uses ARJ, LHA, PKZIP, or built-in compression.
Integrate with a menu system, or use ZIP'R Pro's button menu. Works
with networks & multitaskers. Easy to use push-button interface with
mouse support!
Registration Fee: $49.95


ZIP'R Pro For Windows - Compression Utility For Windows!
ZIP'R Pro stores programs in compressed form when they are not being
used. Use ZIP'R Pro to automatically decompress a program, execute it,
and recompress it again. Uses ARJ, LHA, PKZIP, or built-in compression.
Integrate with a Windows icon, or use ZIP'R Pro's desktop to launch the
program of your choice. Network/Multi-user support is included.
Registration Fee: $49.95



Programs Mentioned

MS-DOS is copyrighted by Microsoft Corporation.
Windows is copyrighted by Microsoft Corporation.