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DBLITE VERSION 1.1g
Software and Documentation Copyright (C) 1992-1993
All Rights Reserved
by: Michael J. Seither Product Testing &
6900 Hastings Street Documentation by:
Metairie, Louisiana
70003-3029 David Grant
Table of Contents
SECTION I. ABOUT DBLITE
I.a. Brief Description
I.b. Why dbLite?
I.c. General Specifications
I.d. What Is a "Lite" Database?
I.e. How to Install and Start dbLite
I.e.1. If You Have a Monochrome Monitor
I.f. Running dbLite from Windows
SECTION II. DEFAULTS AND MODES
SECTION III. EDIT MODE
III.a. How To Use Edit Mode
III.b. Editing Keys
III.c. Editing Records
III.d. Using Memos
III.e. Copying Lines and Records
III.f. Special Characters
SECTION IV. MENU OPERATIONS
IV.a. Using Menus
IV.b. File Menu
IV.c. Print Menu
IV.c.1. Laser Printer Label Stock
IV.c.2. Dot-Matrix Printer Label Stock
IV.c.3. Types of Printing
IV.c.4. Downloadable Fonts
IV.c.5. Form Feeds
IV.d. Append Record
IV.e. Delete Record
IV.f. Insert Record
IV.g. Record Sort
IV.h. Search Menu
IV.i. Capture Menu
IV.j. Quit Menu
SECTION V. TECHNICAL INFORMATION ABOUT DBLITE FILES
SECTION VI. LISTINGS
SECTION VII. MATH FEATURES
VII.a. Calculator Math
VII.b. Checkbook Math
SECTION VIII. NOTES ON PRINTERS
SECTION IX. FUTURE VERSIONS
SECTION X. REGISTRATION NOTICE
X.a. dbLite REGISTRATION FORM
SECTION XI. COPYRIGHT NOTICE
APPENDIX A. COMMAND & EDIT KEY SUMMARY
*****************************************
SECTION I. ABOUT DBLITE
I.a. Brief Description
dbLite (pronounced DEE-bee-LIGHT) is a program for IBM-compatible
computers. It does not require Microsoft Windows, but can be used
within the Windows environment.
dbLite is designed to keep track of data of all types -- mailing
lists, phone lists, address book lists, things-to-do lists,
inventory lists, and other applications which require data
acquisition and retrieval. It outputs printed lists and labels
using either laser or dot-matrix printers. It will address
envelopes directly, one at a time, and using labels, it can address
many at once. It makes a fine mailing list maintenance program.
It works best, however, as a simple, uncomplicated information-
management tool. The people and things it can catalog are limited
only by your imagination.
dbLite is shareware, and you are encouraged to freely distribute
dbLite and its related files. Show your friends and colleagues
what a neat program you found and ask them if they have seen
anything like it.
I.b. Why dbLite?
dbLite works because its author uses it, personally, every day.
Thus, improvements are constantly being made and tested based on
the programmer's actual experience.
Many software programs exist that perform the same functions as
dbLite. To keep track of names, addresses and phone numbers, you
can use programs like SideKick or dBase. You can paste labels and
keep track of phone numbers in a DayRunner. You can print whole
pages from your computer using various programs, punch holes in the
edges, and put them in a book. But programs like these fill your
hard disk and cost a lot. dbLite is designed as a simple way to
_ Keep track of names and addresses;
_ Set up mailing labels for frequently mailed-to contacts;
_ Have an electronic listing from which you can search for
names of people you want to call;
_ Keep a things-to-do list;
_ Sort by any field and rearrange the database quickly;
_ Easily save your work and easily recall it;
_ Keep useful reference lists around the house, for videotapes
Christmas mailing lists, and produce labels
corresponding to these lists.
dbLite can be used without a lot of setup. It's small, simple,
quick, and effective. And it's an easy-to-use program to give to
your friends and relatives who don't want to learn to use dBase or
WordPerfect but who do want to maintain a mailing list and print
labels for envelopes. All these things are now being done with
dbLite.
I.c. General Specifications
dbLite files (lists) can include up to 1001 records (entries) per
file. dbLite can maintain an unlimited number of files (limited
only by disk space), so you can keep very large numbers of records.
But you must separate them into files no greater than 1001 records
each.
dbLite can handle larger lists if they are maintained as a series
of small files. For example, if you have a large mailing list, you
could keep names from A through L in one file and M through Z in
another file. Nevertheless, if you anticipate working with larger
lists, you will probably find a more specialized database program,
such as dBase or Paradox, to be more appropriate. However, while
such programs do have features lacking in dbLite, they are much
more difficult to use -- and much more expensive.
dbLite can be used not only as a database of mailing labels but to
store records of any kind. It sorts by any line to organize data
and it searches for any text to help locate entries. dbLite gives
you up to 255 characters of storage space for each record. This is
divided into 5 lines of 35 characters each for the basic record and
4 lines of up to 20 characters for the memo window. This is ideal
for mailing labels, but this structure also gives you flexibility
to organize your information into subcategories. You can sort
based on these subcategories. Of course, you can also print labels
and manage files directly from dbLite.
I.d. What Is A "Lite" Database?
dbLite is a small, pre-structured, static-format database.
dbLite's record format is already defined when you start it.
dbLite's record structure includes nine fields per record; each of
the first five fields can contain up to 35 characters, and each of
the last four can contain up to 20 characters; and those characters
can be anything, from numbers to text to special characters.
In order to properly use a database and put all of its power to
use, you should be consistent in what you enter into each field.
Since there are nine fields per record (including four in the memo
window), you should consistently enter a recurring type of field in
the same row of your record each time. This will allow you to
organize your data at will (by sorting).
You do not have to make entries in alphabetical order. You can
randomly enter records a few at a time or all at once and in no
particular order. If you consistently put the same "type" of
information on the same line of each record, then you will be able
to sort records later based on the information on each line.
I.e. How to Install and Start dbLite
dbLite does not require any special installation process; you can
run it from wherever the dbLite files are, be that on a hard drive
or a floppy disk. To start dbLite:
1. If you are not already logged into the directory where the
dbLite files are, log into that directory.
2. From the operating system prompt, type DBLITE and press Enter.
You will notice that there were a number of other files included
with dbLite when you got it. The <filename>.DBL files (all the
files ending in .DBL) are data files which help you learn how to
use dbLite. As you learn dbLite, you will be creating your own
data files with your own names, and they will start appearing along
with the data files that came with dbLite. After you are familiar
with dbLite, you can delete the included files to conserve disk
space. Initially, you should load and read them as a way to help
you learn how to use dbLite.
Most people who use dbLite for any length of time will want to run
it from a hard drive. To get a hard drive ready for dbLite, simply
copy the dbLite files to a dbLite directory set up on your hard
drive for that purpose. For example, if your files are on a floppy
disk in A: drive, and you want to put the dbLite files into a
directory called DBLITE on your C: drive, type the following
commands from the system prompt (pressing Enter after each
command):
c:
cd\
md dblite
copy a:\*.* c:\dblite
Then start dbLite as shown above. All your data files will then be
created in the dbLite directory and will be easier to manage.
I.e.1. If You Have a Monochrome Monitor
Some dbLite users with monochrome monitors have reported that menus
don't show up properly. If you experience this problem, try
starting dbLite differently. Instead of typing DBLITE at the
operating system prompt, type DBLITE 10 or DBLITE 49. If you wish,
try substituting different numbers to get different color
combinations. Note that some numbers cause menu choices to blink
on and off.
If you find a color combination that you like on your screen, you
can develop a batch file to start dbLite with that combination
automatically. Log into the directory containing the dbLite files,
and from the operating system prompt, type (pressing Enter after
each line):
copy con:dbl.bat
dblite 49
Then press Control-Z, then Enter.
This will create a file called DBL.BAT, which, when you type dbl
from the operating system prompt, will run dblite with menu color
combination 49, blue on cyan. (Of course, if you like some other
combination better, use that number instead of 49.)
I.f. Running dbLite from Windows
If you install the dbLite files into a DBLITE directory as outlined
above, and you run Microsoft Windows 3.0 or 3.1, you can add dbLite
to any Windows group as follows:
1. Open the sub-group window from which you wish to run dbLite.
2. Click File, New, Program Item, OK.
3. Type responses to the prompts as follows:
_ Description: dbLite
_ Command Line: C:\dbLite\dbLite.pif
_ Working Directory: C:\dbLite
4. Click on Change Icon, and type
C:\dbLite\dbLite.ico
5. Finish by clicking on all OK's.
This will install dbLite into the group you are currently windowed
to.
This method is recommended to beginners, but users who are familiar
with Windows can use other methods.
SECTION II. DEFAULTS AND MODES
When you start dbLite, the default file is automatically loaded.
The name of the default file is contained in the DBLITE.DFL file
supplied with dbLite.
_ The DBLITE.DFL file supplied with dbLite instructs dbLite to
load HELP.DBL.
_ You can change the default file by selecting "Change Default
File" from the File menu.
_ dbLite will look for the default file only in the current
directory (the directory into which you are logged when you
start dbLite). If it cannot find the default file in the
current directory, it will instead load the ADDRESS.DBL file
located in the current directory. If the current directory
does not contain an ADDRESS.DBL file, dbLite will create one
with zero records and load it.
_ Thus, each directory from which you start dbLite will have its
own DBLITE.DFL file and its own default file. If you start
dbLite from a directory that does not already have a
DBLITE.DFL file, dbLite will create one in that directory for
you, and assign ADDRESS.DBL in that directory as the default
file.
_ You never need to create or edit a DBLITE.DFL file manually.
dbLite does this for you.
Once dbLite is up and running, the main menu is displayed, and you
are placed into menu mode. dbLite has two modes: menu and edit.
_ In menu mode, the cursor is in either the main menu or a
submenu, and you can tell dbLite what to do with the data file
on the screen (print it, save it, etc.).
_ In edit mode, the cursor is in the text of a record, and you
can type information into that record of that data file.
While in the main menu, press Escape to go to edit mode, or F1 to
see a list of shortcut keys which allow you to perform with one
keystroke various tasks listed in the menus.
While in edit mode, press Escape to go to the main menu, or F1 to
see a summary list of editing keys.
SECTION III. EDIT MODE
III.a. How To Use Edit Mode
To get into Edit mode from the main menu, press Escape. The cursor
will be put into the record shown and you can edit the information
there. Although you can see more than one record at a time, the
cursor will always stay in the current record (the record
designated by the small left and right arrows). To get a feel for
the way dbLite works, press Escape several times and watch the info
box on the right side of the screen display switch from Edit &
Scroll to menu mode. In edit mode, the menus disappear, and your
cursor is placed into the current record edit window. In menu
mode, a menu reappears, and the cursor is placed in that menu for
you to make a selection. Edit mode allows you to move from record
to record using the Page Up and Page Down keys. In edit mode, you
can create records, change records, and review records.
To edit existing records, press Escape to switch into edit mode.
Then press Page Up or Page Down to find the record you wish to edit
by placing it into the current record edit window (the one with the
arrows) and make the changes.
III.b. Editing Keys
While in edit mode, press these keys to move in the ways indicated:
Up Arrow Previous line
Down Arrow Next line
Enter Start of next line
Page Up Previous record
Page Down Next record
Home Start of text on line
End End of text on line
Tab 5-space tab
Shift-Tab 5-space reverse tab
Ctrl-Home First record
Ctrl-End Last record
Alt-Delete Delete line and move remaining lines up
Ctrl-Y Delete line and hold its place in record
Alt-Insert Insert line
Use the Ctrl and Alt keys like the shift -- hold the key (either
Ctrl or Alt) and tap the other key.
Pressing F1 while in edit mode will show a list of these keys.
III.c. Editing Records
While in Edit mode, type in the information you want on each line.
Note that dbLite does not have a "wordwrap" feature. Even though
dbLite has text editing features, it is a database. Each line of
text is a field in a record. Each box contains an individual
record and each line in the box is a field. Use the up and down
arrows to move between lines, or Enter to move to the next line
(or, if you are already on the last line, to the next record).
The normal edit mode in dbLite is overtype -- that is, everything
you type will replace what is already there. If you wish to insert
text in the middle of an area, then press the Insert key; the
cursor will grow, you will be in insert mode, and the text you type
will push existing text on the line to the right. (You can also
press Tab while in insert mode to insert 5 spaces at once.) Press
Insert again to return to overtype mode.
Note, however, that each line is limited to 35 characters. dbLite
will beep when you type in the 35th character on a line as a
warning that the line is full. However, if you type information
into the middle of the line, existing text can "fall off the edge,"
and there is no way to retrieve it.
If you will use a laser printer to print labels, you should limit
lines to 29 characters. Printing in the 3-across label format used
by copier labels and laser printer labels will truncate the
rightmost edge, cutting off the last 6 characters. The information
box on the right side of the screen shows where on the 35-character
line you are typing and when you have gone beyond character 29.
(You can get around this limitation by using downloaded fonts. See
the "Downloadable Fonts" section for details.)
While in edit mode, you can press F1 for a summary of file-movement
keys, or Escape for the main menu.
III.d. Using Memos
Each dbLite record includes a memo window. This window, which
includes 4 lines holding up to 20 characters each, is handy for
keeping information related to a record that you do not want
printed with the record.
To open the memo window, press Alt-W or F11 while in edit mode.
This moves the cursor to the memo window, and allows you to make
changes to the text in the window. To close the memo window and
return to the current window, press Escape, Alt-W, or F11.
You can sort on any of the four memo lines by specifying 6, 7, 8,
or 9 as the sort line when performing a record sort. Thus, if you
wish to keep a file sorted on information that you don't want
printed on a label, you can do so by entering that information in
the memo window of each record. Be sure to enter it on the same
one of the four lines, and at the beginning of the line.
We know of one dbLite user who sets up homework review drill
quizzes for his children using the memo feature. He enters each
question in the five-line current window, and the answer in the
memo window. With this format, his children can use dbLite for
self-testing; they try to answer each question, then open the memo
window to check the answer. At final exam time, they use the
dbLite file for review.
The file MEMO.DBL, included with dbLite, is an introduction to the
use of memos.
III.e. Copying Lines and Records
dbLite has a two "clipboards": a one-line clipboard and a full-
record clipboard. This keeps you from having to type in the same
information (boilerplate text, standard boxes, etc.) over and over.
To use the one-line clipboard:
1. Type in the line once, then press Alt-M. This "marks" the
line.
2. Then, whenever you would like to use that line again, press
Alt-C. This copies the line to wherever the cursor is.
If you want to put a different line on the clipboard, repeat the
"marking" process using Alt-M. The new line will replace the old
one on the clipboard.
To use the full-record clipboard:
1. Position the cursor anywhere in the record you wish to copy,
and press Alt-B.
2. The contents of the record are now displayed in the dbLite ad
box for reference.
3. Move the cursor into the record where you want this
information copied to.
4. To make the copy, press Alt-O. Note that the contents of the
ad box will replace the previous contents (if any) of the
record.
You can also use the full-record copy procedure to completely erase
the contents of a record without deleting it, by using the Alt-O
output buffer prior to filling the buffer with text or by filling
it with a blank record in anticipation of using the blanking
feature. To try it load a file with records and before using Alt-B
to fill the buffer just press Alt-O and your current record will be
blanked.
Neither clipboard is saved when you exit dbLite.
III.f. Drawing Boxes
You can place boxes and shading into your labels. These characters
are treated just like letters or numbers. Use the function keys
for this purpose. Here are the available keys and the characters
they generate:
F2 ╔ Alt-F2 ┌
F3 ═ Alt-F3 ─
F4 ╗ Alt-F4 ┐
F5 ║ Alt-F5 │
F6 ╚ Alt-F6 └
F7 ╝ Alt-F7 ┘
F8 ░ Alt-F8 ╖
F9 ▒ Alt-F9 ╘
F10 ▓ Alt-F10 █
For examples of box drawing, see the DEPOSIT.DBL, DRAW.DBL, and
SIGNS.DBL files included with dbLite.
Downloaded fonts do not include line-drawing characters. Attempts
to print labels with line-drawing characters using a downloaded
font will produce unpredictable results.
SECTION IV. MENU OPERATION
IV.a. Using Menus
dbLite is controlled by various menus. Loading files, printing,
searching, quitting and other commands are all accomplished by a
menu system. When dbLite starts, you are immediately placed into
the Main Menu. When in any menu, you can select the option of your
choice in three ways:
1. Press the first letter of the option, which will highlight the
option, then press Enter.
2. Use the up and down cursor arrows to highlight the option,
then press Enter.
3. If you have a mouse, point to the option, and click the left
button.
Exceptions:
1. If there is more than one option in a menu starting with the
same letter, pressing that letter will cycle you between each
of the options starting with the letter. Cycle to the option
you want, then select that option by pressing Enter.
2. Pressing a letter will not work in the Print menu. In this
menu, you must use the up and down cursor arrows, or point and
click with the mouse.
To back out of a menu choice, press Escape (more than once if
necessary).
IV.b. File Menu
dbLite will save your labels in a file on disk so that you can use
them again, and will retrieve a file of labels for you. The File
menu provides the following options:
1. To use a file already on disk, select "Load An Existing File,"
then highlight the file you want to use (if you don't see the
one you want, press Page Up or Page Down) and press Enter.
2. To begin a new, empty file, select "Create A New File." You
will be asked for a name for the new file. This name can be
up to eight characters. dbLite will automatically add the
filename extension .DBL. Type in the name, press Enter, and
dbLite will give you a blank file to work with. Before
executing either of the two options above, dbLite will ask
what you want to do with the file already displayed. For
information about the menu it displays, see the Quit Menu
section.
3. To write your changes to disk and continue working with the
same file, select "Save File And Continue." You will NOT be
prompted for confirmation. Also, dbLite will NOT keep the old
version of your file on disk as a backup, so select this
option only if you're sure you are happy with the file as you
have changed it. As a shortcut, while in menu mode, you can
instead press F7 to save your file and continue. Again, there
will be no confirmation step and no backup.
4. To change which file is automatically retrieved when you start
dbLite, select "Change Default File."
5. To wipe out a file from disk, select "Delete A File," then
highlight the file to delete (if you don't see the one you
want, press Page Up or Page Down) and press Enter. You cannot
delete the file you are currently editing.
6. To work with files in another directory, select "Change
Drive\Directory," then type the full path name of the
directory and press Enter.
7. To use a downloadable font with a laser printer, change if
necessary to the directory where the font files (which carry
an .FNT extension) reside (use the File menu's "Change
Drive\Directory" option to do this). Select "Download Font to
LaserJet," then highlight the font to use and press Enter. It
will take dbLite several seconds to transmit the font to the
printer; you must wait until dbLite is finished before
resuming work. To monitor the transmittal process, watch the
box at the lower left of the screen.
IV.c. Print Menu
You can print labels on Hewlett-Packard compatible laser printers,
or on Epson-compatible dot-matrix printers. To print labels:
1. Select the Print menu, highlight the type of printing you want
to do, and press Enter. The Print menu is unlike other menus
in that you cannot press the first letter of the option you
want to move the cursor to that option. You must use the up
and down cursor arrows to highlight the option.
2. If you have previously used the font downloading option
(available only with laser printers), dbLite will ask whether
you want to use the downloaded font or the default font. The
default will usually be a 12-character-per-inch font, similar
to elite type; but you may wish to experiment to see what your
printer's default font is. Type "Y" or "N" and press Enter.
3. dbLite will prompt you to make sure that the labels are
positioned in the printer and that the printer is on-line. Do
so and then press Enter.
4. dbLite will send the information to the printer. If there is
a problem with the printer being off-line, out of paper, etc.,
dbLite will beep and prompt you to fix the problem. While
dbLite is sending the information to the printer, you will not
be able to do other work in dbLite.
5. Once the "Please wait, printing in progress" box disappears,
you can resume work. Usually, this will be before the printer
is finished printing.
IV.c.1. Laser Printer Label Stock
dbLite has been tested with the following laser printer label
stock:
Avery #5160
_ 100 sheets: 8 1/2" x 11"
_ 3000 labels: 1" x 2 5/8" (30 per page)
Maco #M-5351
_ 100 sheets: 8 1/2" x 11"
_ 3300 labels: 1" x 2 3/4" (33 per page but only 27 print)
Most other label brands emulate one of these standards.
We do not recommend that you run copier labels through your laser
printer, though many people do so to save money (since copier
labels cost much less than laser printer labels). The ideal setup
is to have both a laser printer and a copier, print your labels on
the laser printer on plain paper, and then use the copier to copy
them to label stock.
You can print labels on "Laser Printer Label Stock" or on "Copying
Machine Label Stock." Which you should choose depends on the type
of labels you use. In either case, dbLite prints labels 3-across
on 8 1/2-by-11 label sheets, and assumes that each label is 1 by 2
5/6 inches.
_ "Laser Printer Label Stock" prints 30 labels per page, 10 rows
of 3, with a 1/2-inch margin on the top and bottom.
_ "Copying Machine Label Stock" prints 27 labels per page, 9
rows of 3, with a one-inch margin on the top and bottom.
Please note that dbLite defaults to a 12-characters-per-inch font
to print labels. With this font, only 29 characters will fit on
any one laser printer or copier label. Thus full 35-character
lines are not supported for laser printer and copier label stock;
the last 6 characters are truncated. If you want to use laser
printer or copier label stock, plan your labels in advance to use
no more than 29 of the 35 characters dbLite allows you on each
line. (You can get around this limitation by using downloadable
fonts. See the "Downloadable Fonts" section for details.)
IV.c.2. Dot-Matrix Printer Label Stock
dbLite has been tested with the following dot-matrix printer label
stock:
Avery #4145
_ 3 1/2" x 15/16"
_ 1000 labels (1 across)
For dot-matrix printers, dbLite prints on continuous-feed, 1-across
labels only, but does print all 35 characters. Downloadable fonts
are not available for dot-matrix printers.
IV.c.3. Types of Printing
There are some differences in the printing options available on
laser printers vs. those available on dot-matrix printers. dbLite
will generate the following printouts:
1. To print all records in the file being displayed, select "All
Labels."
2. To print the record the cursor is on, select "This Label."
With copier or laser printer labels, an entire page of copies
of the same label will be printed. With dot matrix printers,
only a single copy of the label will be printed.
3. To print the current record onto an envelope, select
"Envelope." This option positions the information in a manner
appropriate for an envelope.
4. To print a listing of information in the file including record
numbers but not in label format, select "Listing." This will
print a report on regular 8 1/2-by-11 paper and is useful for
referencing your file.
5. The "Deposit" option, available for laser printers only, is
useful for stamping "For Deposit Only" and your bank account
number on the backs of checks. You can use the label provided
in the DEPOSIT.DBL file supplied with dbLite, or design your
own label for this purpose. "Deposit" will position the
printing in a manner appropriate for the back of a check.
Note: The laser printer must feed from a center manual feed
slot.
6. To print a quick-reference list of selected information in
your file, select "2x4 List." This prints a list on regular
8 1/2-by-11 paper which contains only the 1st and 5th lines of
each record; the printed report is one row per record, with
the 1st line of the record on the left and the 5th line on the
right. This is useful for printing directories or indexes
such as a phone list. Of course, if you anticipate using this
feature, you should plan your file when new so that the
information you will want indexed is on the 1st and 5th lines
of each record.
To print one label on one particular position of a page of laser
printer or copier labels, use the capture feature as follows:
1. If you have an old capture file, rename or delete it.
2. In menu mode, press F4 to capture the one label to be printed.
3. From the Capture menu, select "Load Capture File." At this
point, the Capture file will contain only one label, the one
you have just captured.
4. Looking at your page of label stock, count from left to right
and top to bottom to see in what numbered position you want
the label printed on the sheet. If you want it in the upper
left hand corner (position 1), simply tell dbLite to print all
labels. Your record showing, record 1, will print in the
upper left hand corner. If you want the label in the middle
of the first row (position 2), you will insert a blank record
prior to your record (which will then become record 2) and
print all records (so that what is now record 2 will print in
position 2). The principle is to insert blanks prior to the
record's actual appearance on the sheet. Of course, if all
you want is one label, you can also simply type that one into
the record number position where you want it printed on your
sheet. You do not need to insert blanks after the record,
only before.
IV.c.4. Downloadable Fonts
Included with dbLite is a selection of fonts that you can use to
give printed labels a more attractive appearance. To use
downloadable fonts:
1. You must be using a laser printer. dbLite's downloadable
fonts do not work with dot-matrix printers.
2. You must download the font to the printer. The command for
this purpose is on the File menu. See the section on File
menu options for more information.
3. When you request a printout, dbLite will ask whether you want
to use the font you downloaded.
Fonts are sized by "points." 10-point fonts are the same height as
standard typing (6 lines to the inch); 12-point fonts are slightly
larger. The 10-point fonts are designed to work well with labels.
35 characters will fit across on laser printer labels using any 10-
point font. If you opt for 12-point, you will be able to fit your
records but you will need to watch your capitalization. Too many
caps will result in a field overflow. Hold your caps to just what
is necessary. You will need to experiment and make paper copies
before trying label stock. In our opinion, the soft fonts give
very nice output and are well worth the download time and fuss.
Additionally, they are proportionally spaced which means that
lowercase letters take up much less space than fixed-length spacing
which is the default font choice.
Finally, the downloaded font remains selected in the printer when
you exit dbLite. This allows you to download a font and then use
it for DOS output or for text editor output for nicer-looking
printouts. Microsoft Windows will override the choice and so too
will some other programs which will use their own output choices.
Most software on exiting resets the printer to its native fonts,
but dbLite does not. To reset your printer manually, just switch
it off and on again.
Registered users will get technical information about using
different fonts than the ones included in the shareware package, as
well as a set of additional fonts to use.
Downloaded fonts do not include line-drawing characters. Attempts
to print labels with line-drawing characters using a downloaded
font will produce unpredictable results.
IV.c.5. Form Feeds
The file FORMFEED.COM, included with dbLite, instructs your printer
to release any partially-printed page. You cannot use it while in
dbLite, but it will be useful in dislodging any printouts still in
your printer when you exit dbLite (or at any other time). To use
FORMFEED.COM:
1. Log into the directory containing FORMFEED.COM.
2. From the operating system prompt, type FORMFEED and press
Enter.
IV.d. Append Record
To add a record to the end of the file from menu mode:
1. From the main menu, select "Append Record."
2. dbLite adds a blank record to the end of the file, places the
cursor at that record, and returns you to Edit mode for data
entry.
To append a record directly from edit mode:
1. Press Ctrl-End to move to the last record.
2. Press Page Down to add a new blank record after the last
record. dbLite places you into that new record for data
entry.
IV.e. Delete Record
To delete a record:
1. Make sure the cursor is on the record you wish to delete.
2. If you are in edit mode, press Escape to go into menu mode.
Once in menu mode, you can delete the record the cursor is on in
two ways:
1. From the main menu, select "Delete Record."
2. dbLite prompts you for confirmation. Press "Y" and Enter to
execute the deletion or "N" and Enter to abort the deletion.
Or....
1. Press F9, and dbLite will delete the record WITHOUT asking for
confirmation.
dbLite has no "undo" option. Once you delete a label, it is gone.
Therefore, you may want to save your file before making deletions.
IV.f. Insert Record
To insert a record into the file from edit mode:
1. Place the cursor on the record number you want the new record
to become. For example, if the inserted record should be #27,
place the cursor in current record #27.
2. Press Escape to go into Menu mode.
3. From the main menu, select "Insert Record."
dbLite will add a blank record, and you can enter information
there. You also may want to insert blanks for print formatting
purposes.
IV.g. Record Sort
dbLite will sort the records in your file by any line you choose.
1. From the main menu, select "Record Sort."
2. dbLite asks, "Which line shall we sort on?"
3. To sort on one of the five lines of each record, type a number
from 1 to 5 and press Enter. To sort on one of the four lines
of the memo window, type a number from 6 to 9 and press Enter.
You can sort as many times as you wish. You can save and rename
each sorted file.
IV.h. Search Menu
dbLite will search through your file to find and highlight any
word, partial word, or text you specify (also called a search
string). Use the following steps:
1. From the main menu, select the Search menu; from the Search
menu, select Text Search. Or....while in menu mode, simply
press F3.
2. Type in the text you want dbLite to search for and press
Enter. dbLite is not case-sensitive for searches.
3. dbLite will look for your search string, starting with the
next record. It will continue to the end of your file, then
go to the top of the file and work back down to the starting
location.
4. When dbLite finds your search string, it will stop. If it
cannot find your search string, it will beep and display an
error message.
5. To search for the next occurrence of the same string at this
time -- or to repeat your search for the last string specified
at any time during your dbLite session -- press F3 while in
menu mode.
6. To search for a different string, you must first specify the
new search string. To do so, go to menu mode and repeat the
steps above.
You can also use Search menu options to quickly move the cursor to
the first record of your file, the last record, or any record you
specify. (If in edit mode, you can also press Ctrl-Home to move to
the first record, or Ctrl-End to move to the last record.)
The search feature allows you to use dbLite as a quick electronic
file system. For example, to find a phone number in your
ADDRESS.DBL file:
1. Start dbLite.
2. Load ADDRESS.DBL (or better yet, use the "Change Default File"
option on the File menu to have ADDRESS.DBL load automatically
when you start dbLite).
3. Press F3 to bring up the search string box, type the person's
name, and press Enter.
4. dbLite finds the appropriate record, and you see the phone
number.
5. Press F10 to quit dbLite.
You can do this without ever leaving menu mode.
IV.i. Capture Menu
The capture feature allows you to
_ Select records to move from one file to another; and
_ Build one unique file from all or part of many others.
The capture menu allows you to "capture" a selected record to a
file called CAPTURE.DBL. This file is a special clipboard used to
move records among files. It is saved as a file and retained
between dbLite sessions.
Therefore, BEFORE beginning a capture operation, it is wise to
delete CAPTURE.DBL (using the File menu), so as to clear out any
debris from previous uses of the file that you do not want as a
part of your current work.
To add records to a file from one or more other files, follow these
steps:
1. Load each file that includes records to be brought in.
2. Locate each record you want brought in, and capture it to the
capture file.
3. Load the file that you wish to add records to.
4. From the Capture menu, select "Append Captured Labels to This
File."
If you want to build a new and unique file of records from various
other files:
1. Load each file that includes records that you want as part of
the new file.
2. Locate each record you want in the new file, and capture it to
the capture file.
3. From the Capture menu, select "Rename Capture File," and enter
a new file name of up to eight characters.
To simply combine two files of records:
1. For this operation, you will need the capture file. If you
want to keep what's currently in the capture file, load it,
then save it under a name other than CAPTURE.DBL.
2. Delete the CAPTURE.DBL file.
3. Load one of the files to be combined.
4. Use the File menu to save this file under the name
CAPTURE.DBL. You now have to copies of this file, one with
the original name and one named CAPTURE.DBL.
5. Use the File menu to delete this file as it is originally
named. Now you are down to one copy of the file, saved as
CAPTURE.DBL.
6. Load the other of the two files you wish to combine.
7. From the Capture menu, select "Append Captured Labels to This
File." You now have the combined file. (Since dbLite can
only store 1001 labels per file, it will stop appending labels
once the 1001 limit is reached.)
While in menu mode, you can press F4 to append the current record
to the capture file. This is a real time-saver when used together
with the Search feature. As explained in the Search menu section,
you can use F3 to find the record you want to capture. Then press
F4 to capture it. Press F3 again to find the next record
containing your search text, then press F4 to capture that record,
and so on.
IV.j. Quit Menu
To exit dbLite, select the Quit menu. You will then see another
menu of three options. Select the one you want:
1. If you DO NOT want to save your work, select "Do Not
Save/Ignore Changes."
2. If you DO want to save your work, and if you want the file you
have just finished revising to replace the previous version of
the file on the disk, select "Save Current File With Changes."
3. If you DO want to save your work, but you want to retain the
old version of your file on disk as well as the version you
have just finished revising, you must enter a new file name
for the newly revised version. Select "Save File With New
File Name." You will then be prompted for a new file name,
which can be up to eight characters. dbLite will
automatically add the filename extension .DBL.
Once you have made your selection and press Enter, you will return
to the operating system. If you change your mind and decide you do
not want to exit, press Escape to abort the exit process.
As an alternative, while in menu mode, you can press F10 to quit
dbLite immediately. However, you will not have an opportunity to
save your changes, so if you have made changes you want to save, be
sure to save them before pressing F10. dbLite will not ask you to
confirm an F10 quit.
SECTION V. TECHNICAL INFORMATION ABOUT DBLITE FILES
If you're not a "computer whiz," skip this section. You can use
dbLite without it.
dbLite label files are assigned the extension .DBL by dbLite. They
are ASCII text files with no file headers or delimiters. Since the
length of each record is 255 bytes, the total file length is
exactly equal to the number of records times 256. (There is a one-
byte tab character inserted between each record.)
It is possible (though not recommended) to edit these files outside
of the dbLite environment. Do not alter the 35 x 5 and 20 x 4
record structure or you will harm your record integrity. Do not
insert carriage returns, line feeds or other special characters
into the file. If you do, it will cause problems with the screen
display when you retrieve the file into dbLite; in fact, this is
the most common cause of such screen problems.
Spaces (ASCII decimal 32 or hex 20) fill the voids between all
characters. Nulls (ASCII or hex 0) will not properly hold the
space in a print job. If your print output is not properly spaced,
it is probably because the file is filled with nulls and not
spaces.
Converting from comma-separated value files (CSVs) to dbLite's
fixed record length (and back again) is fairly straightforward in
a programming environment. The only problem we know of is double
quotes in text strings which need to be converted. Avoid double
quotes in raw record data prior to converting either way; it
confuses the process. We have available crude programs that do the
conversions; on request, we will send them with source code to
registered users. They are only for people who intend to convert
their files into and out of spreadsheets and or databases.
With the addition of memo capability in Version 1.1a, dbLite's file
structure was changed from that of previous versions. dbLite now
uses the .DBL filename extension rather than its previous .LBL
extension. To use .LBL files created with dbLite versions prior to
1.1a, you must convert them to .DBL format using the CONVERT.EXE
utility included with dbLite. To run CONVERT.EXE, change to the
directory where CONVERT.EXE is installed, and from the operating
system prompt type CONVERT and press Enter.
SECTION VI. LISTINGS
Listings are useful for cataloging data or materials of any type.
For example, here's how to use listings to keep track of your
videotape collection:
1. Set up your video library with one label per movie, like this:
Line 1: GOON MIT DER VIND [title]
Line 2: Drama, four stars [description]
Line 3: Library cabinet [location]
Line 4: Beta / VHS / 8mm [format]
Line 5: 0001_L [catalog number]
If you assign a catalog number to each tape, and store them in
catalog number order, you can find them when you want to see
them. This is the same principle as the Dewey Decimal system
that libraries use.
2. Once you have entered records for all your movies, print
labels and attach them to the tapes.
3. Sort by title (line 1) and print a listing for reference, then
print a 2 x 4 list which will give you a quick reference
listing showing only the title and catalog number so you can
quickly check to see whether you have the movie and if so what
number it is. Your complete listing gives you complete
information from your record; your 2 x 4 listing gives you
quick reference and access; and your labeling system allows
you to catalog your tapes and store them in order.
4. Store your tapes in the order in which you cataloged them.
Here's a way to organize your Christmas list:
1. Type in your friends' addresses -- leaving the fifth line
blank -- and save the address file as FRIENDS.DBL.
2. Go back into the file, and add in phone numbers on the fifth
line. Save the file with phone numbers added as PHONES.DBL.
3. Print a listing for future reference and print a 2 x 4 listing
to get a phone number list for quick reference.
4. When you want to send everyone a letter, print the entire
FRIENDS.DBL file onto labels and adhere to envelopes. To send
one letter, load FRIENDS.DBL, use the Search feature to find
your friend's name, and when it comes up, use the Print menu
to print an envelope.
SECTION VII. MATH FEATURES
VII.a. Calculator Math
You can solve calculator-style math problems from within dbLite.
To use this feature from edit mode:
1. On any line, type the math problem you would like to solve.
This can be as simple as 2 + 2 or as complex as
(((2347/8^2)*16*9)-23)+64000. You will be limited to the 35
character line. You can use parentheses (), + for addition,
- for subtraction, * for multiplication, / for division, \ for
integer division (whole numbers), and ^ for raising to a
power. You cannot use letters or commas or anything other
than numbers and the symbols shown above.
2. Once the line is typed, press Alt-=. This will evaluate your
formula and show the answer (or error message) in our ad box
at the lower left of the screen.
3. dbLite will put the cursor on the next line, ready for another
math problem or any other dbLite operation.
Limits are as follows:
1. Largest number displayed as a result: 922,337,203,685,477.
Anything larger will result in the error message "# Out of
Range."
2. Smallest number displayed as a result: -922,337,203,685,477,
with the same error message.
3. All calculations are rounded to four decimal places. Anything
smaller than .0001, e.g. .00009, will be rounded to .0000 and
will not be displayed.
Registered dbLite users can obtain a copy of the original computer
program (from BasicPro magazine) on which this feature is based by
requesting the "EVALUATE.BAS" code. Make this request on your
registration form; if you have already registered, drop us a line.
Like the memo feature, dbLite's math capability allows you to set
up quizzes or drills. Here's how:
1. Type a drill problem on each line of several records, followed
by an equal sign (e.g 8 * 4 =).
2. The person being drilled types the answer to the problem
following the equal sign, then checks the answer by pressing
Alt-=, which, as explained above, displays the answer at the
lower left corner of the screen.
dbLite will not evaulate beyond either the "=" sign or after a '
(single quote) sign (which allows you to add comments, as explained
under "Checkbook Math" below). So if the problem is 8 * 4 =,
dbLite evaluates only the 8 * 4 portion and does not go any
further, thus the answer or the equal sign will not produce any
false value or error message. Remember that when you press Alt-=,
the cursor immediately drops down to the next line, so you are
looking at the evaluation of the line previous to the one the
cursor is on.
You can try this out by using the file MATHDRIL.DBL which comes
with dbLite.
VII.b. Checkbook Math
dbLite can be used as an electronic checkbook. Its accumulate
feature allows you to keep a running total of your deposits and
withdrawals. To set up your checkbook in a dbLite file:
1. Enter your beginning balance on the first line.
2. On each subsequent line, enter a transaction. Begin the line
with the amount of the transaction, with a minus sign
preceding checks and withdrawals, and a plus sign preceding
deposits. Thus, each line will include a value, along with
its preceding sign to show whether it should be added to or
subtracted from the current balance.
3. Following the numbers, you can enter a description of the
transaction. But be sure to begin that description with an
apostrophe ('); otherwise, dbLite will try to interpret your
description mathematically and give you an error message.
4. Ignore the record boundaries. When you get to the fifth line
of a record, put the next transaction on the first line of the
next record. Also ignore the memo fields.
5. Now you are ready to balance. Move the cursor back to the
first line (anywhere on the line) and press Alt-=. This will
put the beginning balance on line one into the display box on
the lower left. It will also move you to the next line.
6. Your cursor is now on the second line. Press Alt-A (which
stands for accumulate), and dbLite will append your current
balance to the left of the transaction at the beginning of the
line. Thus, you will have a mathematical equation that dbLite
can solve to show your next balance.
7. Now press Alt-= again. You will accumulate the balance and
the transaction into the display box, and you will go down to
the third line.
8. Continue in this manner. Hold down the Alt key and
alternately pressing = and A will append and accumulate as you
go.
9. If you are reconciling your checkbook and do not want to
include an entry, place an apostrophe (') at the beginning of
that line -- before the sign and amount -- and that entry will
not be accumulated into the total.
For an example of how this works with a short tutorial, load the
CHEKBOOK.DBL file included with dbLite.
SECTION VIII. NOTES ON PRINTERS
dbLite is designed to work with Epson-compatible dot-matrix
printers, and Hewlett-Packard LaserJet-compatible laser printers.
Most other printers emulate one of these standards as well. If
your printer is capable of emulating one of these standards and
characters are not printing properly, you may need to reset certain
switches on your printer to enable such emulation. See your
printer manual for more information.
Some laser printer users have reported that information is printed
in the wrong place on envelopes (particularly with the use of a
right-side manual feed). If you experience this or any other
problem, please contact us with full particulars, and we will do
our best to fix the problem. Remember, only registered users are
eligible for technical support.
SECTION IX. FUTURE VERSIONS
The following features are planned for future versions of dbLite:
1. The ability to output postal bar codes to the printer, fitting
the codes onto a label either just above or just below the
text.
2. Printing of the memo field as labels, etc.; calculation in the
memo field; and use of the memo field to store quantity values
and unit values for things like inventory management.
3. The addition of line-drawing characters to downloadable fonts.
4. Printing of copier labels on dot-matrix printers.
Registered users will be informed through the dbLite newsletter
when these and other features become available.
dbLite is only as good as its usefulness to its users. Registered
users are encouraged to request specific features or changes to be
included in future versions. Please contact us with full details.
SECTION X. REGISTRATION NOTICE
dbLite is shareware. You may use it for a limited period (30 days)
to evaluate it at no charge. To continue using it legally, you
must send $10.00, check or money order, to:
Mike Seither
6900 Hastings Street
Metairie, Louisiana 70003-3029
Make the check or money order payable to "Mike Seither".
Technical support for dbLite is provided to REGISTERED USERS ONLY.
You can write us at the address above or contact us via CompuServe
IDs 71550,2721 or 72571,2722.
If you find dbLite useful on a continuing basis, we strongly
encourage you to register. We will be providing support to all
registered users with mailings and updates which will either be
free or at a very nominal charge (the first upgrade, which is your
registered copy, is free). You will have a direct link to the sole
producer of dbLite, and your individual inputs and concerns will be
addressed. Fill out the following page or use your own format for
registration.
X.a. DBLITE REGISTRATION FORM
Please register my copy of dbLite, Version 1.1f. I am enclosing
$10.00, check or money order, payable to "Mike Seither". I will
receive the latest version of dbLite with helpful utilities and
data files. I will be included on a newsletter mailing list. My
comments and suggestions may be used in the newsletter to help
other dbLite users.
Name: ____________________________________________________________
Address: _________________________________________________________
City: __________________________ State: __________ Zip: __________
Diskette Size: 5 1/4" ____ 3 1/2" ____
I use dbLite for: ________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Please also print out, fill in, and send the user evaluation form
contained in the file EVALUATE.TXT that came with dbLite.
Mail to:
Mike Seither
6900 Hastings Street
Metairie, Louisiana 70003-3029
SECTION XI. COPYRIGHT NOTICE
The dbLite software and documentation are copyright 1992-1993 by
Mike Seither -- all rights reserved. dbLite is written in compiled
Microsoft BASIC PDS 7.1. Any decompilation, reverse-engineering,
alteration, etc. is prohibited. Distribution of this program is
limited to the normal shareware channels. It is not intended for
resale by any individual other than those distributing shareware by
charging a minimal copying charge to defer costs. Its proper
distribution should include all documentation and help data files.
Trademarks used in this documentation are the properties of their
respective owners.
APPENDIX A.
COMMAND AND EDIT KEY SUMMARY
_ dbLite Command & Edit Key Summary
[Esc] The escape key toggles from Main Menu Mode to Edit Mode
It further returns user from Memo Window to Edit Mode
It will also exit most Menus back to the Main Menu
F1 Will show a help window from Main Menu Mode or from Edit Mode
F2 Used for drawing character in Edit Mode
F3 From Main Menu Mode initiates/re-intitiates a search
If no search string has been defined, will ask for an initial
string.
Will then continue to search for intial string over and over
(to re-define search string, use Main Menu / Search Menu / Text
Search)
Also used for drawing in Edit Mode
F4 In Main Menu Mode Captures the current record to the Cature File
Also used for dreawing in Edit Mode
F5 Used for drawing in Edit Mode
F6 Used for drawing in Edit Mode
F7 In Main Menu Mode use to save current file and continue session
Also used for drawing character in Edit Mode
F8 Use to draw special character in Edit Mode
F9 In Main Menu Mode quick delete current record (be careful here)
Note: The use of Main Menu/Delete Record will prompt user if
he or she is sure that they want to delete. F9 is a quick key
for those who do not want to deal with such prompts
Also draws character in Edit Mode
F10 Quit, abandoning current changes since last save
Basically a quick way to depart dbLite without having to answer a
lot of questions.
Also used for drawing in Edit Mode
[Alt]+F1 - F10 Used for drawing special characters in Edit Mode
The following keys are used in Edit Mode Only:
[Ins] Toggles insert mode on and off. Default is off. In insert mode
cursor grows bigger. Typing in default mode replaces text.
Typing in insert mode moves text over one character at a time.
Characters beyond 35th position are lost in insert mode.
Right Arrow Moves one character to the right. Will not move beyond 35
characters.
Left Arrow Moves one character to the left. Stops at position 1.
[Tab] Tab stops are set at every 5 positions. In overtype mode, which is
the default the tab does not move the text, only the cursor.
In insert mode, the tab WILL MOVE TEXT over 5 positions and will
drop positions 30- 35.
[Shift]+[Tab] Moves the cursor back 5 positions
Down Arrow Moves one line down. Will also move from last line in one
record to first line in next record. Maintains cursor position
in current column
Up Arrow Moves one line up/will also move from first line in one record to
last line in previous record. Maintains cursor position in current
column
[Enter] Moves one line down/will also move from last line in one record to
first line in next record. Returns cursor position to #1 column
[Home] Moves cursor to column 1 on same line. To move the cursor to the
first line,column 1 from any position in a record, hit [Esc]
twice.
[End] Moves cursor to the far right current text position.
[PgUp] Moves record position to the previous record.
[PgDn] Moves record position to the next record.
[Ctrl]+[Home]Selects the first record.
[Ctrl]+[End]Selects the last record.
{Note all references to "line" for editing keys also refer to a "field".
Each "line" in dbLite is synonymous with "field"}
[Alt]+[Del]Deletes the current line and moves remaining lines up one
position.
[Ctrl]+YDeletes contents of the current line but does not move remaining
lines up one position.
[Alt]+[Ins]Inserts a blank line and moves current lines down one position.
(Last line in a record is eliminated)
[Alt]+M Mark the contents of the current line for later copying.
(show the line in the message box)
[Alt]+C Copy the contents of the Marked Line to the current line.
[Alt]+B Mark the contents of the current record for later copying into
a data buffer (show the record in the message box)
[Alt]+O Copy the contents of the marked record from the data buffer
into the current record ( output buffer ) This replaces any
data which had been in the record.
[Alt]+O If no record current exists in the data buffer this command
will clear the contents of the current record. It simply pastes
a blank record on top of any data which happens to be there.
[Alt]+W In Edit Mode opens a four line by twenty character memo window.
Also serves to close the same window if it is open, the contents
of the window will be retained even though the window closes.
[Esc] will also close the memo window (F11 is alternative option)
[Alt]+= Calculates the value of an expression which has been entered on
the currently edited line. Displays that value in the message box.
[Alt]+A Accumulates the contents of the evaluated expression into the
first position of the currently edit line. Shifts the rest of the
line over to allow room.
*************************** END OF FILE DBLITE.DOC **************************
