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Resident-TaskManager
Version 2.05 -- September 1990
A Memory Resident Task Manager
Copyright (c) 1989,90 WetZoft Applications
All Rights Reserved
_______
____|__ | (tm)
--| | |-------------------
| ____|__ | Association of
| | |_| Shareware
|__| o | Professionals
-----| | |---------------------
|___|___| MEMBER
Table of Contents
I. INTRODUCTION............................................1
A. What Is Resident-TaskManager?.........................1
B. Current Limitations & Restrictions....................1
C. Files Included on Distribution Disk...................2
D. Shareware.............................................2
E. Acknowledgements......................................3
II. LEGAL STUFF............................................3
A. Trademarks Mentioned..................................3
B. Copyright Notice And License..........................3
C. Warranty..............................................4
D. Registration..........................................4
E. Support...............................................5
F. Bulletin Boards, Users Groups And Disk Vendors........5
III. INSTALLATION AND DEFAULT OPTIONS......................5
A. Using The Install Program.............................5
IV. COMMAND LINE OPTIONS..................................10
V. GENERAL USAGE..........................................12
A. Tasks................................................12
B. Swapping-Memory-Resident.............................12
C. Displaying Task's....................................13
D. Commands.............................................13
E. Popping Up...........................................13
VI. COMMAND REFERENCE.....................................14
A. Scrolling The Display................................14
B. Add/Modifying Items..................................14
C. Deleting Items.......................................15
D. Editing the Attached Description.....................15
E. Date Manipulations...................................16
F. Exiting Resident Task................................16
G. Sorting Tasks........................................17
H. Menus................................................17
I. File Options.........................................17
J. Print Options........................................18
VII. EDITING KEYS.........................................19
VIII. TECHNICAL NOTES.....................................20
IX. ASSOCIATION OF SHAREWARE PROFESSIONALS................20
A. The primary goals of the ASP:........................20
X. OTHER PROGRAMS BY WETZOFT APPLICATIONS.................21
A. CALRPT...............................................21
B. CALTRV...............................................21
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: i
XI. REVISION HISTORY......................................21
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: ii
I. INTRODUCTION
A. What Is Resident-TaskManager?
Resident-TaskManager(RTM) is (optionally) a memory-resident
program to manages lists of Tasks, Reminders or ToDo's. Really,
this can be anything you want it to be: a general list of things
to do, a list of appointments, tasks you've delegated, etc.
Resident-TaskManager's most important feature is it's
ability to load as a memory-resident program. That means it's
available to you whenever you need to use it. And, it only uses
about 6 of DOS' lower 640K while doing so.
NOTE: Resident-TaskManager does not have to be loaded
memory-resident. It can be run as normal DOS task from the
command line or within a Window's or DesqView Window.
Resident-TaskManager has the following features for managing
tasks and lists:
. Multiple lists
. Add, Modify, Delete, Repeat, and Transfer
. 3 Level Sorting
. Prioritization
. Easy date manipulation
. A user-definable field
. Audit Files with view and search capability
. Simple Printing
Resident-TaskManager provides the best combination of memory
usage, simplicity, and features for managing small lists of
tasks.
Attention SK+ Owners!! - Now you can integrate your Task
List with your SK+ Calendar. Using CALRPT and/or CALTRV,
available separately from WetZoft Applications or on CompuServe
(BORAPP LIB 2 & IBMSYS LIB 3), you can merge task lists created
using Resident-TaskManager with a formatted listing of your SK+
Calendar/Time Planner. A short description of CALRPT and CALTRV
appears later in this document.
B. Current Limitations & Restrictions
. 150 Absolute maximum number of Tasks. The default is 50. You
can use the install program to set this number depending on
the amount of EMS memory / Disk Space you want to use.
. 5 lines (72 characters each) of added description information
per Task
. Requires about 6K of real memory
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 1
. Requires about 150K of EMS, or approximately 300K of disk space
- This is based on the Max Tasks set in RTMINST.
. RTM can not be loaded globally within a DesqView or Windows
environment. They fight each other for the keyboard and RTM
always loses. However, RTM runs fine within a window.
*NOTE: Resident-TaskManager will not pop-up over a graphics
screen such as Windows (Although it can be run within a Window).
This restriction is for two reasons. 1) It takes a lot of memory
to save/restore the graphics screen and 2) We have not seen a
sure fire way to detect all modes and all colors properly. Hence
we were not satisfied with the results.
If you are using a graphics program and wish to pop-up Resident-
TaskManager, you must switch the program to text mode first(if
the application provides this option).
C. Files Included on Distribution Disk
The Resident-TaskManager Distribution Disk contains the following
files:
RTM.EXE - The Resident-TaskManager program
RTM.DAT - A Short Help File in Resident-TaskManager Format
RTM.DOC - This file
RTMCONVT.EXE - A Conversion Program to convert RTM 1.x files to
2.0 format.
RTMINST.EXE - An installation program
README - Changes or important information not included in
the printed documentation (RTM.DOC).
REGISTER.BAT - A BATch file to print out the registration form
to your printer (LPT1)
REGFORM.DOC - The actual Registration Form
PRINTDOC.BAT - A BATch file to print out this documentation
file to your printer (LPT1)
VENDOR.DOC - Instructions to Disk Vendors who wish to
distribute Resident-TaskManager.
Copy these files onto your disk into whatever directory you
wish. Then, consider how you want to run Resident-TaskManager
and set your options(See: Installation And Default Options later
in this file).
D. 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.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 2
Resident Task Manager is distributed as Shareware -- this
means WetZoft Applications encourages users, subject to
restrictions described below, to share copies of this program
with friends, associates and bulletin boards. You may not share
the registered version of Resident Task Manager.
If you make copies of Resident Task Manager, you must
include all files in the original distribution file. You are not
permitted to distribute Resident Task Manager without this
documentation.
E. Acknowledgements
Thanks to TurboPower Software for furnishing an excellent
set of utilities (Turbo Professional 5.0) that made this program
possible in 25% of the time it would have taken us otherwise.
Thanks to my co-author Terry Hughes who put in many long
hours on this project. Terry really did all the hard stuff!
II. LEGAL STUFF
A. Trademarks Mentioned
Turbo Pascal is a trademark of Borland International
Turbo Professional is a trademark of TurboPower Software
Window's is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation
Desqview is a trademark of Quarterdeck Office Systems
B. Copyright Notice And License
This document; other accompanying written and disk-based
notes and specifications; and all referenced and related program
files, demonstration code and object modules accompanying this
document are copyrighted by WetZoft Applications. The copyright
owner hereby licenses you to: initial use of the software; make
as many copies of the software and documentation as you wish;
give exact copies of the original to anyone; and distribute the
software and documentation in its unmodified form via electronic
means. There is no charge for any of the above.
This is not free software. This license allows you to use
this software without charge for a period of 30 days. In order to
continue using this software, include this software as part of
any product, either commercial, shareware, freeware, or public
domain, REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Any other use of Resident-
TaskManager is in violation of federal copyright laws.
No copy of the software may be distributed or given away
without this accompanying documentation; this notice must not be
removed. ONLY COPIES OF THE SHAREWARE VERSION MAY BE DISTRIBUTED
IN ANY FORM. Contact WetZoft Applications if you receive a copy
that does not comply with these requirements.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 3
C. Warranty
There is no warranty of any kind associated with this
software, and the copyright owner is not liable for damages of
any kind. By using this software, you agree to this. Every
effort has been made by WetZoft Applications to make this product
bug-free. However, the nature of software development is that it
is impossible to guarantee bug-free software. Every attempt will
be made to correct any verifiable bug reported. Upgrades will be
made available to all registered users.
D. Registration
To register Resident-TaskManager, fill out the registration form
included with this documentation, and send a check or money order
(in US funds only) for the appropriate amount to:
WetZoft Applications
788 Martin Ct West
Severn MD 21144
Upon receipt of the appropriate registration fee, WetZoft
Applications will acknowledge the registration and
. Provide the user with the codes necessary to remove the
shareware registration screen.
. Provide the user with a registration number entitling the
user to upgrades and telephone support.
. Provide the user with a printed copy of the documentation
and the latest copy of the software. Please specify disk
size on the registration form. If no disk size is specified
5 1/4 inch disks will be sent.
The registration fee is for the use of a single copy of
Resident-Task Manager by ONE individual. Resident-Task Manager
may be used on any computer owned by the registered user so long
as there is NO possibility of Resident-TaskManager being used at
more than one location at the same time. Please contact WetZoft
Applications for information on multiple copy registration and
site licenses.
Telephone support will only be provided to registered users.
If you need technical assistance and you are NOT registered, you
may either write to WetZoft Applications the address above, or
contact the author on Compuserve:
Jim Wetzel [75166,3200]
E-Mail, BORAPP, IBMSYS
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 4
E. Support
Registered Users of Resident Task Manager are entitled to
the following support:
. CompuServe - The preferred method of support is via
CompuServe. Technical questions and inquires can be E-
Mailed to: Jim Wetzel [75166,3200].
. Mail Support - You can send all questions and inquires
to the address listed above. WetZoft Applications will
respond as promptly as possible to your inquiry.
. Telephone Support - Registered users may call WetZoft
Applications at (301)-969-9385 for technical support.
Voice response is generally available weekday evenings.
Messages are checked periodically throughout the day.
For Non-Registered users of Resident Task Manager, we will
provide you with assistance to install a shareware copy of
Resident Task Manager and evaluate it during the 30 day
evaluation period. WetZoft Applications cannot guarantee
continued support to Non-Registered Users beyond the 30 day
evaluation period.
F. Bulletin Boards, Users Groups And Disk Vendors
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES MAY RESIDENT TASK MANAGER BE
DISTRIBUTED WITHOUT ALL ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTATION FILES
(INCLUDING THIS COMPLETE FILE), ALL PROGRAMS, AND OTHER MATERIALS
PROVIDED WITH THE OFFICIAL COPIES FROM WETZOFT APPLICATIONS. ANY
OTHER SUCH DISTRIBUTION OF RESIDENT-TASKMANAGER OR ITS RELATED
FILES, EXCEPT AS PROVIDED FOR IN THIS LICENSE, SHALL BE
DETERMINED TO BE IN VIOLATION OF FEDERAL COPYRIGHT LAWS.
III. INSTALLATION AND DEFAULT OPTIONS
A. Using The Install Program
Resident-TaskManager is somewhat unusual in that many of its
options can only be set via the install program (RTMINST). The
reason for doing this: to reduce the amount of memory required
for this program (by reducing the size of the program itself).
Since most options are typically set only once, this should be a
reasonable trade-off.
To run RTMINST, simply type: C:>RTMINST <cr>
RTMINST will look in the current directory for RTM.EXE. If
it's not there, RTMINST will search your currently defined path.
If that fails as well, RTMINST will end with an error message.
RTMINST presents a data-entry screen showing the name of
each configurable option and it's current value. Use the cursor
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 5
keys to scroll through that screen, setting the defaults as you
wish. Use the <F1> key at any time for a Pop-Up Help box for the
current field.
Default Datafile Path & Filename
This is Resident-Task's default data directory and file
name. RTM always looks here for it's data. If no file is found,
RTM will create a new one (with the specified name) and begin
adding records. You can override this option at run-time with the
/F [Filename] parameter.
For the data file name, you can specify a new drive, path,
and file name. It is highly recommended that you add a Drive &
Path to the filename supplied. If you do not Resident-TaskManager
will try to read its task file from whatever directory you first
Pop-Up in. While this may be useful in some situations it could
also lead to multiple task files spread across your hard disk.
Default SwapFile Drive & Path
If RTM can't find enough EMS (or Disk /D swapping is
specified) RTM will use a disk file "RTMSWAP1.$$$" to perform the
swap. You MUST specify at least a drive here.
For the swapfile path, specify the drive and optional path.
The last backslash is REQUIRED. RTMINST will make sure this drive
and path exists! If it doesn't RTMINST will report an error and
you will have to correct the entry. The default is C:\. Valid
drives are C: -> G:.
Default Screen Colors
RTM uses a variety of colors to make the screen more
readable. Use the Space Bar,+,- keys to toggle through the color
options. The Color Sample Box always shows what the current color
selections will look like.
Default Run Mode
Resident-Task has 3 Run Modes. "Normal Task" means to run as
a normal DOS program. "Swap EMS" (Recommended) means to swap all
but 6K to EMS and run as a TSR. "Swap Disk" means to swap all but
6K to Disk. Note: "Disk Swap" will also be used if there is not
enough EMS available to run as "SWAP EMS".
For the Run Mode option, use the +/-/Space keys to toggle through
the three options.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 6
Option 1 - SWAP EMS (Best Performance) - Instructs RTM to run
as a swapping TSR using approximately 6k of your 640K memory
and about 150K of exPANDed (EMS) memory. This is the highest
performance option with low memory requirements and fast pop-
ups.
Option 2 - SWAP Disk (Somewhat slower Performance) - Instructs
RTM to run as a swapping TSR using approximately 6k of your
640K memory and about 300K of Disk Space. This has somewhat
slower performance with low memory requirements and somewhat
slower pop-ups. Performance of this option can be enhanced by
the use of a RAM Disk. (A perfect option for AT users with a
free 384K of exTENDed memory.)
Option 3 - Normal Task (Default) - Instructs RTM to run as a
normal DOS task. This option is useful from the command line
but does not allow you to pop-up over your existing work. This
option can be used if you are using some other form of task
switching program.
Default Hot Key
Valid Hot Keys consist of one or more of: <Ctrl>, <Alt>,
<Left-Shift> and <Right-Shift> + one "other key". The "other key"
can be any VALID letter, number, or function key.
For the Hot Key, simply press the desired hot key
combination. The text description of the current hot keys lets
you verify that RTMINST got the keystrokes correctly. Here are a
couple of things to remember about valid hot key combinations:
- you must have at least one of: <Alt>, <Ctrl>, <Left-Shift>,
<Right-Shift> (these are all referred to as shift keys)
- you can have multiple shift keys in any combination (i.e.,
your shift can consist of all four shift keys. But, I would
like to see a picture of you trying to hit all of them.)
- one (and only one) non-shift key follows your shift key(s)
- avoid keystroke combination that you might use in other
programs or that other pop-up programs might use
Also, there are a limited set of Keys that the IBM BIOS does
not process directly (and neither does RTM). Some of these are
certain <Ctrl>-number/punctuation keys and a few <Alt>-
Punctuation keys. Generally most <Ctrl>-Letter/Function keys are
valid as are most <Alt>-Letter/Number/Function keys. One way to
be sure is to try the key you want to use - If it is displayed
then it is a valid HotKey. There should be enough to choose from
so that you don't conflict with any other TSR's or Function type
codes used by other programs.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 7
Default Task Priority
Resident-Task provides the capability to PRIORITIZE your
Tasks. If you want to have a Default value supplied - enter it
here. The priority field is used in some of the Task sorting
options. Recommended values are A -> Z or 0 -> 9 or Space. The
default is "B". It is recommended to use all Numbers or all
letters. Intermixed letter & number priorities may not sort the
way you expect.
Default User Field Name
Resident-Task provides one user-definable field. It is 10
characters in length and has a title of up to 7 characters. The
title is displayed where ever Task's are displayed or printed.
The default name for this field is "Project". You can change this
name here and also specify a default Value in the User Value
Field.
Default User Field Value
Resident-Task provides one user-definable field that is 10
characters long. The field is displayed next to the task on the
Task screen. The default for this field blank. If most of your
"Projects" or what ever you use this field for have the same
value - you can specify that value here. RTM will automatically
assign that value to the user field as you add records. You can
always type over the displayed value.
Default Delete Option
Resident-Task provides various methods of DELETEing Tasks.
These are ERASE: To completely erase a task from the file MOVE:
To move the task to the AUDIT file and then erase the task or
COPY: To copy the task to the AUDIT file and leave the task for
editing. When you select "D"elete from the RTM Menu the option
specified here will be automatically highlighted and you only
need hit "Enter" to carry out the action. You will still be able
to select another option by scrolling with the arrow keys.
Additionally, RTM will use this default if you specify Quick
Delete using the <Alt>-D keys on the main screen. Space/+/-
toggles this field.
Default Load Only Option
When RTM is loaded as a memory resident program, it executes
the program as it loads. That is, you have a chance to view and
manipulate your Task's. If you just want RTM to load quietly and
not display the your Tasks initially, then set this option to
"Y"es.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 8
File Write After Add/Modify
Resident-Task normally writes all task file changes when you
exit the program. If you would prefer, you can set this option to
"Y" and write the task file after each change is made via the
Add/Modify screen. Warning - After the file is written you cannot
use the Quit with No Save option from the Exit Screen.
European Dates
Resident Task Manager can show its dates in Standard Format
(MM/DD/YY) or, if you set this flag to "Y", in European Format
(DD.MM.YY).
Default Sort Order
RTM provides various Sort options for viewing your data. You
can pick the one you would like have as default by toggling
through the options with the +/-/Space keys. You will still be
able to sort & view your tasks in a different order within RTM.
This option is also used as the Quick Sort method when you press
the <Alt>-S key within RTM.
Auto Sort Option
By default RTM will load your data and display it as it was
last saved or modified. This option allows you to have RTM
automatically sort your Task file each time it is loaded and each
time you add or modified a record. If this option is set to "Y"
RTM uses the Default Sort Order on loading and the last sort
option the user specified after adding or modifying a record.
Past Due Warning
Resident-Task will, by default, check your tasks to see if
you have any that are Past Due. If you do, each time you pop-up
RTM, you will be reminded with a short warning message. If you do
not want RTM to check these tasks for you just change this option
to "N".
Default Printer Setup / Reset String
The Printer Setup and Reset strings are sequences of control
and ASCII characters that can initialize or reset your printer.
To enter control characters, first press ^P (control-P), then
enter the desired control character (e.g. ^O). Control characters
are displayed as uppercase alphabetics (^O is displayed as 'O',
for example) in a different color.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 9
Default Print Page Size
The Printer Page Size setting tells Resident-Task how many
lines to print on it's reports. When the page fills up to (or
near) the specified page size, Resident-Task issues a Form Feed
character to advance the printer to the next page.
Max Tasks Supported
Resident-Task can support up to 150 Tasks. This requires
about 150K of EMS/Disk space when loaded in "Resident" mode. You
can reduce the EMS space requirement by setting a lower limit
(each Task requires about 430 bytes). Select a value between 10
and 150. RTM's default is 50.
Use <F10> to save your options and end the install program.
Use <Esc> to cancel the changes and end the program. Use <F2> to
reset all options to the default levels.
Some options can also be specified on the command line when
you run RTM (typically in your AUTOEXEC.BAT).
IV. COMMAND LINE OPTIONS
The ability to change a few options from the command line,
as you load Resident-TaskManager is provided. These options are
those most likely to change on a temporary basis (where you
wouldn't want the burden of re-running the installation program).
Typing RTM /? will give a list of the command line options.
Command Line Options:
/D {Load as DISK Swapping TSR}
This option tells Resident-TaskManager to load as a DISK-
Swapping TSR. This is a very good way to gain the
functionality of Resident-TaskManager if you don't have EMS
memory available on your system. Resident-TaskManager will
swap to the path specified in the install program or to the
default C:\. Resident-TaskManager creates two files
RTMSWAP1.$$$ and RTMSWAP2.$$$. PLEASE DO NOT DELETE these
files while RTM is running - it is a nasty sight!
ATTENTION AT Owners: Resident-TaskManager likes to use part of
the 384K ram disk above the 640K line.
/E {Load as EMS Swapping TSR}
This tells Resident-TaskManager to make itself memory-resident
using as little memory as possible. This is the preferred
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 10
running mode in most cases. If enough EMS is available, all
swapping will be done using EMS memory. If EMS is not
available, Resident-TaskManager will swap to DISK. This will
result in a slight delay when you hit the "hot key". In
either mode, Resident-TaskManager consumes only 6K of RAM.
/F [drive:\path\filename] {Load Optional Task File]
This option tells Resident-TaskManager where to find your
data. This overrides the default (or installed) location for
your data.
An audit file is always derived from the data file name. It
is identical to the data file name with the exception of the
extension. The extension for the audit file is .AUD.
If you specified a file name of C:\DATA\PROJECT1.DAT
The Audit File will be C:\DATA\PROJECT1.AUD.
The default (uninstalled) file name is RTM.DAT. And, the name
of the default audit file is RTM.AUD.
/N {Normal DOS Program}
This tells Resident-TaskManager to run as a Normal foreground
task; it will not stay resident in memory.
/L {load only}
This option is only relevant when Resident-TaskManager is
being installed in memory resident mode. Normally, as you
install Resident-TaskManager, it will display your list of
items and give you a change to Add/Modify/Delete etc. When you
exit, Resident-TaskManager will stay resident in memory,
available whenever you press the hot keys.
If you don't want Resident-TaskManager to execute as it loads
(i.e., just load quietly) then specify this option on the
command line.
/U {unload}
This option tells Resident-TaskManager to unload from memory.
You can only use this option from the DOS command line; and,
only if Resident-TaskManager was the LAST PROGRAM LOADED in
memory. If either of these conditions is not true, Resident-
TaskManager will not unload from memory.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 11
V. GENERAL USAGE
A. Tasks
A Task consists of a 48 character Task name, a due-date, an
age, a Priority (User Selected) and one user defined field of 10
characters. The due day-of-week is also displayed. A Task can
have up to 5 extra description lines of 72 characters each.
The user defined field can be whatever you want it to be:
Project, Delegated-To, Time, etc. The title of the user field
can be changed through the installation program.
Tasks are kept in a file on your hard disk. You can specify
the name and location of that file with the installation program.
You can also specify a file name as you load the program; or,
change it while the program is running. When you complete Tasks,
you can simply erase them; or, you can move them to an audit
file. This gives you a running record of things you have
accomplished (and when you accomplished them).
B. Swapping-Memory-Resident
Resident-TaskManager is memory-resident program that uses as
little memory as possible. The actual amount of memory required
to run Resident-TaskManager is about 150K bytes (depending on the
value of Max Tasks). This is far too much memory to devote to
one memory-resident program. So, Resident-TaskManager swaps the
bulk of itself to either EMS memory or disk.
If you have it, EMS memory is by far the best choice
(although a RAM-Disk swap is pretty close). In this
configuration, Resident-TaskManager pops-up almost immediately.
If Resident-TaskManager can find enough EMS memory, it will use
it.
If Resident-TaskManager can't find enough EMS memory, it
will swap to disk. This requires about 300K of disk space. The
drawback to this method is increased loading times. That is,
when you press the Resident-TaskManager hot-key, it takes a few
moments to pop-up (depending on the speed of your disk). While
this delay can certainly be bothersome, it still offers the
advantage of not having to exit your current application, just to
view your Task list.
You can also run Resident-TaskManager from the DOS command
line. You may want to this if you don't have EMS memory and you
aren't in the middle of an application. This gives you the best
of both worlds: a normal, fast-loading Task Manager when you're
not doing anything else; and a somewhat slower, memory-Resident
TaskManager for when you're in the middle of an application.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 12
C. Displaying Task's
Resident-TaskManager presents a full-screen list of your
Tasks. A highlight bar shows the currently selected item. Every
item can have up to five lines of attached descriptions. The
description attached to the highlighted item is always displayed
at the bottom of the screen. These two windows are called,
respectively, the main window and the attached descriptions
window.
The top line on the screen is the status line. It tells you
the name of the current Task file and the current date and time.
Optionally, the top line may show you a pull-down menu <F10> that
gives you access to all of Resident-TaskManager's commands. The
bottom line is the command line. It tells you what commands and
keys are currently active. In addition to the commands shown many
of the other commands are available as quick commands. See the
on-line help <F1> for a list of the current Quick Commands.
Some functions (e.g., Add and Modify) require a third window
to pop-up. These pop-up windows are always temporary.
D. Commands
All commands are simple, unshifted, single letter commands.
The date of the currently selected item can be manipulated using
the Left/Right (and <Ctrl>-Left/Right) arrow keys.
A brief help screen is available through <F1> and <Alt>-H.
The command line at the bottom of the screen always shows
most of the currently active commands or options.
E. Popping Up
Resident-TaskManager is designed to pop-up very safely. It
won't pop-up in the middle of critical operations (like accessing
your hard disk or over a graphic screen). It is considerate of
other pop-ups. That is, it will allow other programs to pop-up
over it, if it's not busy.
There is one situation where other pop-ups can't be called
while Resident-TaskManager is active. Generally, TSRs installed
AFTER Resident-TaskManager cannot be called. Why? Because
Resident-TaskManager has "borrowed" their memory. Temporarily,
those TSRs no longer exist. Resident-TaskManager will put them
back after it's finished. Therefore, any TSR you might wish to
pop-up over Resident-TaskManager, must be loaded before Resident-
TaskManager.
This brings up an important point about where to load
Resident-TaskManager. Really, the above paragraph explains it
all. But, just in case it wasn't clear, NEVER LOAD Resident-
TaskManager BEFORE A NETWORK DRIVER OR OTHER DEVICE DRIVER.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 13
Remember, all programs and drivers loaded after Resident-
TaskManager will get swapped out when Resident-TaskManager pops-
up. Swapping out a Network Driver will cause most Networks to
think that the station is lost (and will probably log it out).
In the case of Novell Netware, Resident-TaskManager will
recognize if you are attempting to pop-up over a Network Driver
and won't let you do it. It can't recognize other networks; so,
be careful.
Before popping up, Resident-TaskManager will save the
contents of the current screen and restore those contents it is
finished. This is true for TEXT DISPLAYS only. Currently,
Resident-TaskManager will not pop-up over graphics screens.
VI. COMMAND REFERENCE
A. Scrolling The Display
<DnAr> - Down Arrow moves the highlight bar down one line
<UpAr> - Up Arrow moves the highlight bar up one line
<PgDn> - Page Down displays the next screenful of items
<PgUp> - Page Up displays the previous screenful of items
<HOME> - Home displays the first item
<END> - End displays the last item
<Esc> - Escape removes the current pop-up window
B. Add/Modifying Items
"A" - Add a new item
Press the "A" key to add a new Task to your list. The
Add/Modify window pops up and lets you fill in a new item.
Use Enter or the arrow keys to move from field to field. The
date always defaults to today's date. Use the arrow keys to
change it. The priority field accepts any character and will
force all alphabetic characters to UPPER CASE. The default
value is blank (or no priority). Up to fives lines can be
entered in the attached descriptions area (See "Editing Keys"
later in this document). Press <Esc> while in the Attached
Description Area to stop editing or <F2> to stop editing and
save. Or, press <F2> at any time to save.
New items are always inserted at the current highlighted
position unless the auto-sort option is enabled.
"M" - Modify an item
Move the highlight bar to the desired Task. Press "M". This
will bring up the Add/Modify window and let you modify the
Task (See "Editing Keys" later in this document). Use Enter
or the arrow keys to move from field to field. Press <Esc>
while in the Attached Description Area to stop editing or <F2>
to stop editing and save. Or, press <F2> at any time to save.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 14
"R" - Repeats an item
Repeats a Task in it's entirety. This is useful for creating
a few mostly similar Tasks. Create one, repeat it, then
modify the new items.
C. Deleting Items
"D" - Delete a Task
Pressing "D" will display the Delete Option Menu. The three
delete options are:
Erase (completely)
Move to Audit File (and erase)
Copy To Audit File (and leave)
The Erase option simply erases the current Task; no record of
it will remain.
The Move option also erases the current Task; however, it
first copies it to the Audit File. The Audit File is a
export-format file that keeps holds copies of all Tasks you've
completed (and sent to that file).
The Copy option also moves the Task to the Audit File.
However; it does not delete it from your active list. This is
useful for repetitive Tasks. For instance, you have certain
tasks that you must do every month. So you don't forget, you
create Task entries to remind you of them. After you've
completed the task, you document that fact by Copying the Task
to the Audit File. You still have the original items in your
active file. Now, you can use the Date Manipulation keys to
set the next due-date.
<Alt>-D - Automatically Delete a Task
Pressing <Alt>-D will automatically delete a task according to
the delete option specified in the install program. This is
similar to the "K"ill option listed below but you have the
option of automatically Copying or Moving the task to the
Audit file.
"K" - Kill a Task Immediately
Pressing the "K" while on the main screen will Kill / Delete
the highlighted task immediately. There is no warning - the
task is gone! (unless you use the (Q)uit with No Save to exit
RTM). The "D" menu option is the recommended option for
dealing with completed tasks.
D. Editing the Attached Description
<Alt>-E - Edit Attached Description
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 15
Resident-TaskManager can edit the attached description of the
current task. See "Editing Keys" elsewhere in this document.
When you have completed editing the attached description you
can hit <Esc> or <F2> to quit editing.
E. Date Manipulations
All of the date manipulation commands operate on the currently
highlighted item; or, on the Due Date field in the Add/Modify
Window.
-> Increment Day - The RightArrow increments the date by one
day.
<- Decrement Day - The LeftArrow decrements the date by one
day.
<Ctrl>-> Increment Week - The <Ctrl>-RightArrow combination
increments the date by one week.
<Ctrl><- Decrement Week - The <Ctrl>-LeftArrow combination
decrements the date by one week.
"C" - Pop-Up Calendar - Using "C" on any date field will
invoke a pop-up calendar with either the task date or current
date highlighted. You can then page through the calendar by
day (right/left arrow), week (up/down arrow), month (Page-
Up/Page-Down), or you can go to the current date by pressing
the <Home> Key. Pressing <Enter> will accept the highlighted
date, <Esc> will exit the calendar and leave the original date
unchanged.
" " - Spacebar - Pressing the <Space> key while displaying the
main screen will cause the date being displayed to toggle
between the "Due Date" of the task and the date the task was
"Assigned". The "Left" column will continue to show the number
of days left till the task is due.
F. Exiting Resident Task
"X" - eXit with Save
This command saves the current data file (if it's been
modified) and ends the program. No verification is requested.
<Esc> - Quit with Options*
This command displays a prompt box of three options: Save File
& Quit; Quit with NO Save. You can use the arrow keys to pick
the desired option and then press Enter. Or, just press the
first key (S,Q) for immediate execution. The options are
self-explanatory.
*Note: <Esc> will also exit all menus and cancel any action
you have initiated.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 16
G. Sorting Tasks
"S" - Sort the list
You can sort your lists eleven different ways. A prompt box
is displayed with all of the possible sort options. Use the
highlight bar to pick the sort order you need, then hit the
<Enter> key.
<Alt>-S Sort the list Automatically
You can specify a default sort option in the install program
and then automatically sort your file at any time by pressing
the <Alt>-S key. If you pop up the sort menu and change the
sort option that option will become your NEW sort default
until you change it again or remove RTM from memory. If you
specify Auto Sort on in the install program the <Alt>-S key
must be used to maintain sorted order after date manipulation.
The Auto Sort option only maintains the sort order after
Add/Modify tasks or a new file is loaded.
H. Menus
<F10> - Menu Bar
Pressing <F10> initiates a Pull Down menu that will give you
access to all of Resident-TaskManager's commands.
I. File Options
"F" - File
Change File - While running, you can switch to a different
Task file without leaving the program. The switch file
might be useful if you use a different file for
different projects or maintain tasks/assignments for
various individuals. Resident-TaskManager prompts you
for a new file name (and keeps prompting you until you
enter a valid file name, press enter for a file pick
list, or press <Esc>. You will be asked if you wish to
save the current file prior to reading the new file if
you have made any changes. This option can also be used
to re-read the current file and cancel any changes you
have made without using the quit option to cancel
changes.
Save File - While running, you can Save the current Task
file without leaving the program. This is helpful if
you have made a lot of changes and have not saved your
file for some time
View Audit File - Resident-TaskManager has the option of
creating an Audit file for tasks that have been
completed and deleted using the "Copy" or "Move"
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 17
options. This file can be "Viewed" from the file menu
or by hitting the "V" key from the primary task screen.
Transfer Task - Resident-TaskManager can transfer (copy) a
task to another task file. This is helpful if you want
to create a new task file for a different project or if
you want to assign a task to another person.
"V" - View Audit File
The Audit File can also be viewed from the main task screen by
hitting the "V" key while the main task screen is displayed.
While "V"iewing the audit file you can also search/find a
specific value by enter <Ctrl>-F. Once the value is found it
will be highlighted. You can search for the next occurrence of
the item by pressing <Ctrl>-L.
J. Print Options
"P" - Print the list
This is a fairly basic Print facility. It displays a short
pick-list of printer options. The changeable options are:
Description Lines are Skipped/Printed - The enter key will
toggle this field.
Print the Next 999 days - The enter key will bring up a sub-
menu to allow you to specify the number of days.
Print the Next 999 tasks - The enter key will bring up a
sub-menu to allow you to specify the number of tasks
you want to print.
Print "userfield" = ALL - The enter key will bring up a sub-
menu to specify the substring you wish to search for.
Output [destination] - This field toggles between "LPT1" and
"FILE". When file is selected the Task report will be
written to a disk file named "taskfile.RPT".
Go - The enter key will start the printing.
For each option, using the cursor keys (or press the first
letter of the option) to move the high-light bar. Then press
Enter to select that option.
To start printing, select the "Go" option and press the Enter
key. Resident-TaskManager will print all qualifying Tasks to
LPT1.
<Alt>-P - Automatically Print Task List
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 18
If you press the <Alt>-P keys you will get a quick listing of
your task file without going through the "Print" menu. <Alt>-P
will use the default print options or the last options you
specified on the Print menu.
VII. EDITING KEYS
While adding or modifying tasks, Resident-TaskManager offers a
fairly complete set of basic editing commands. The available
commands and associated key(s) are listed below. These keys may
vary depending if you are editing a single line or the attached
description.
<Left>, <CtrlS> - Cursor left one character.
<Right>, <CtrlD> - Cursor right one character.
<CtrlLeft>, <CtrlA> - Cursor left one word. If the cursor is
at the beginning of a line, it is moved to the end of the
previous line.
<CtrlRight>, <CtrlF> - Cursor right one word. If the cursor is
at the end of a line, it is moved to the beginning of the
following line.
<Home>, <CtrlQ><S> - Cursor to beginning of line.
<End>, <CtrlQ><D> - Cursor to end of line.
<Up>, <CtrlE> - Cursor up one line.
<Down>, <CtrlX> - Cursor down one line.
<CtrlHome>, <CtrlQ><E> - Move cursor to top of description
window.
<CtrlEnd>, <CtrlQ><X> - Move cursor to bottom of description
window.
<Del>, <CtrlG> - Delete character at cursor.
<Bksp>, <CtrlH>, <CtrlBksp> - Delete character to left of
cursor. If the cursor is at the beginning of a line, the line
will be joined with the previous line.
<CtrlY> - Delete current line.
<CtrlQ><Y> - Delete from cursor to end of line.
<CtrlT> - Delete word to right of cursor. If the cursor is at
end of a line, the following line is joined with the current
line.
<Enter>, <CtrlM> - Start a new line.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 19
<Tab>, <CtrlI> - Move the cursor to the next tab stop. If
insert mode is on, any text to the right of the cursor is
moved to the right of the tab stop.
<Ins>, <CtrlV> - Toggle insert mode on and off. A fat cursor
indicates insert mode; a thin cursor indicates overtype mode.
<CtrlB> - Reformat attached description.
<CtrlQ><L> - Restore original contents of the current line.
<Esc>, <CtrlBreak> - Quit editing.
VIII. TECHNICAL NOTES
For those that care about these things, here is some of the
technical information about this program:
The program is written in Turbo Pascal version 5.5. It relies
extensively on the Turbo Professional toolbox from TurboPower
Software for screen handling, error handling, pick lists, and
many other aspects of the program.
It uses the Swapping TSR routines from TurboPower Software's
Object Professional.
IX. ASSOCIATION OF SHAREWARE PROFESSIONALS
The owner of WetZoft Applications is a member of the
Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP), an organization
formed in April 1987 to strengthen the future of shareware (user-
supported software) as an alternative to commercial software.
Its members, all of whom are programmers who subscribe to a code
of ethics, are committed to the concept of shareware as a method
of marketing.
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 P.O. Box 5786, Bellevue, WA 98006 or send a
Compuserve message via easyplex to ASP Ombudsman 70007,3536
A. The primary goals of the ASP:
To inform users about shareware programs and about
shareware as a method of distributing and marketing
software;
To encourage broader distribution of shareware through user
groups and disk dealers who agree to identify and explain
the nature of shareware;
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 20
To assist members in marketing their software;
To provide a forum through which ASP members may
communicate, share ideas, and learn from each other; and
To foster a high degree of professionalism among shareware
authors by setting programming, marketing, and support
standards for ASP members to follow.
X. OTHER PROGRAMS BY WETZOFT APPLICATIONS
A. CALRPT
CALRPT is a program that produces a nicely formatted
calendar report (Screen, Printer, or File) from Sidekick+'s
Calendar file without invoking Sidekick+. This is especially
helpful in your AUTOEXEC file to show you what is on your
Calendar for the next few days. To invoke CALRPT just type CALRPT
from the DOS command line or place the command CALRPT somewhere
in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
B. CALTRV
CALTRV, like CALRPT, is a program that produces a nicely
formatted calendar report from Sidekick+'s Calendar file without
invoking Sidekick+. The primary difference between CALTRV and
CALRPT is that CALTRV is more paper oriented. That is it produces
a more standard type of Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Calendar
report. CALTRV was designed to be a replacement for Traveling
Sidekick, by Borland International.
XI. REVISION HISTORY
2.05 09/20/90
. Added toggle between Date Due/Assigned on main screen -
using space bar.
. Fixed Bug with long lines in attached description that
caused code to be clobbered
. ASP Information included in documentation
. Removed Two Tier Pricing. Registration automatically
includes disk & printed documentation
. Cleaned up various other area in the documentation.
2.04 09/06/90
. Removed timed delay on Shareware Screen. Now Press Any Key
will continue immediately.
2.03 08/25/90
. Fixed problem with heading (File Name) not being properly
updated when Menu Bar showing.
. Fixed problem with Added/Modified Task containing Nulls in
User Field.
. Fixed File Safety Feature to save Modified/Added task at
the proper time. It was saving prior to last change.
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 21
2.02 08/21/90
. Fixed Problem where Pop-Up Menu bar would not clear
2.01 07/31/90
. Fixed problem with pick list on Change File
2.00 07/21/90
. Beta converted to production.
1.05 Beta Release - 07/16/90
. Modified Help Screen for new options and clarity
. Cleaned up documentation for consistency and clarity
1.04 Beta Release - 07/10/90
. Fixed Problem with UserField/Task Descriptions Redraw
. Added Query to Create File when Changing/Transferring to a
New File
1.03 Beta Release - 07/09/90
. Add time Completed to Audit report
. Add Audit File Browse with String Search
. Add 3 Level Sorting [Date, Priority, Project AND Project,
Date, Priority]
. Add Print to File [taskfile.RPT]
. Change <F10> in Add/Modify to F2 for File Save for Menu
Consistency
. Add Transfer Task to Another File
. Add Wordwrap/Free Form Edit for Attached Description
. Add <Alt>-E for Quick Edit of Attached Description from
Main Screen
. Add Message to Tasks Reports to indicate 0 or Number of
records printed
. Add Auto Save Option after Add/Modify [Installable]
. Fix Loose Changes to Lose Changes - Spelling
. Error Add Pick list to Change of File
. Change All Data Entry Fields to Clear 1st Char
. Add Print from Cursor for N Tasks
. Remove Quit w/Cancel Option to Avoid Confusion - Use
Change File
. Add European Dates Support [Installable]
1.02 December 1989
. Added <Alt>-D,P,S for automatic deleting (Erase, Move,
Copy), . Printing, Sorting.
. Added Auto Sort option for keeping tasks sorted
automatically.
. Cleaned up Install program and added pop-up field help.
. Removed Hidden/System Attribute from SWAP files.
. Changed Insert cursor size on add/modify screen to be more
visible.
. Added ability to access Help Screen <F1> from within
Add/Modify screen.
. Add Verification Check when <Esc>ing out of Add/Modify
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 22
screen.
. Add "Reminder" for past due tasks in Main Pop-Up.
1.01
. Added "K" for Quick Kill Task. WARNING!!! This will delete
the current Task immediately!!! With NO warning. The "D"
Menu is still recommended.
. Added "C" for Pop-Up Calendar date entry
. Added additional defaults to the Install program to allow
user to select Default "Delete" action, Default User Field
VALUE, Default Priority Value
. Added/Clarified Quit options for Save/NoSave and Reread
Input File
. Fixed Install Program - Return on Hot Key went to Top of
Screen instead of next field.
. Fixed Problem with RTM/RBase conflict (INT 33)
. Fixed Problem when writing out Audit file with blank
Description Lines
1.00 Initial Shareware Release - September 1989
Resident-TaskManager Documentation Page: 23
