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1992-08-16
|
187KB
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3,799 lines
,--------------------------------------,
| | | |
| | | |
| |DiscTrak | |
| |System | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| |Copyright | |
| |(c)1992 | |
| |Blam | |
| |Entertainment | Version|
| |Group | 1.703|
`--------------------------------------'
_______
____|__ | (R)
--| | |-------------------
| ____|__ | Association of
| | |_| Shareware
|__| o | Professionals
-----| | |---------------------
|___|___| MEMBER
Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group. All Rights Reserved.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page i
Table of Contents
I: Warranty and License Terms and Conditions..... 1
II: Important Notices............................. 3
1. AUTOEXEC.BAT............................... 3
2. CONFIG.SYS................................. 3
III: System Requirements........................... 3
IV: Concept....................................... 4
V: General....................................... 4
VI: About the Modes............................... 5
1. LaserDisc.................................. 6
2. Video Tape................................. 6
3. Compact Disc............................... 7
4. Cassette Tape / Record Album............... 7
VII: A Note About Registration..................... 8
VIII: Program Limitation............................ 8
IX: Upgrading to New Versions..................... 9
X: Applying Updates..............................10
XI: Automatic Registration Transfer...............10
XII: DOS Command Line..............................11
XIII: Program Installation..........................11
XIV: Keyboard Control..............................13
XV: Main Menu.....................................14
1. Edit Menu..................................14
2. Report Menu................................14
3. Scan Records...............................14
4. Utility Menu...............................15
5. Mode Select................................15
6. Configuration Menu.........................15
7. Quit Program...............................15
XVI: Edit Menu / Match Menu........................15
1. Find a Record..............................16
2. Add a Record...............................16
3. Match Report...............................16
4. Edit record................................16
a. LaserDisc / Video Tape..................17
1. Screen One...........................17
2. Screen Two...........................18
3. Screen Three & Four..................18
4. Screen Five..........................18
5. Screen Six...........................19
6. Screen Seven.........................20
b. Compact Disc &
Cassette Tape / Record Album...........20
5. View Record................................21
a. LaserDisc...............................21
b. Video Tape..............................22
c. Compact Disc &
Cassette Tape / Record Album...........22
DiscTrak System Documentation Page ii
6. Record Print...............................22
7. Next Record................................23
8. Previous Record............................23
9. Quit Menu..................................23
XVII: Report Menu...................................23
1. Category Menu..............................24
a. Report All..............................24
b. Movie...................................24
c. Non-Movie...............................24
d. Owned Titles............................25
e. To Be Viewed............................25
f. Coming Soon.............................25
g. Available Now...........................25
h. Record Albums Only......................25
i. Cassette Tapes Only.....................25
j. Quit Menu...............................25
2. Grouping Menu..............................26
a. Title / Artist..........................26
b. Category................................26
c. Release Year............................26
d. Video / Audio Label.....................26
e. Numbered Catalog........................26
f. Library.................................27
g. MPAA Rating.............................27
h. Replication.............................27
i. Quit Menu...............................27
3. The Reports................................27
a. Prefix..................................28
b. System Mode.............................28
c. Category................................28
d. Grouping................................28
e. Extend Character / Printer Codes........29
f. Report Format...........................29
g. Extension...............................29
4. Report Data................................29
a. LaserDisc / Video Tape modes............29
1. Catalog Number.......................29
2. Title................................29
3. Stereo...............................30
4. SR...................................30
5. CX / DB..............................30
6. Di / HF..............................30
7. DS...................................30
8. WS...................................31
9. CC...................................31
10. CH / CR.............................31
DiscTrak System Documentation Page iii
11. CLV-CAA-CAV / SP-LP-SLP.............31
12. Side / Program......................32
13. File................................32
14. MPAA Rating.........................32
15. Run.................................32
16. Year................................32
17. Category............................32
18. Video Release Label / Replication...32
b. Compact Disc / Cassette Tape............33
1. Catalog Number.......................33
2. Artist...............................33
3. Title................................33
4. AAD-ADD-DAD-DDD / QS-NR-HX...........33
5. DS-D3-DV-DG / FMT-DS-XDR.............33
6. File.................................34
7. CI...................................34
8. Audio Run............................34
9. Year.................................34
10. Cagegory............................34
11. Label...............................34
XVIII: Utility Menu..................................34
1. File Sort..................................34
2. Archive Data...............................35
3. Reindex Data...............................35
4. Program Information........................36
5. DOS Shell..................................36
6. Quit Menu..................................36
XIX: Configuration Menu............................36
1. Printer Menu...............................36
2. Report Format Menu.........................37
3. Archive Pick Menu..........................37
4. Extend CHR On/Off..........................38
5. Codes to On/Off............................38
6. Time Calculate On/Off......................38
7. Quit Menu..................................38
XX: Sample Screens................................39
1. LaserDisc & Video Tape.....................39
a. Screen One..............................39
b. Screen Two..............................40
c. Screen Three............................40
d. Screen Four.............................40
e. Screen Five.............................41
f. Screen Six..............................41
g. Screen Seven............................42
2. Compact Disc &
Cassette Tape / Record Album..............42
a. Screen One..............................42
b. Screen Two..............................43
DiscTrak System Documentation Page iv
XXI: Edit Disc Legend..............................44
A1. LaserDisc / Video Tape Title..............44
B1. Stereo Type Indicator.....................44
C1. Spectral Recording Indicator..............44
D1. CX Noise Reduction / Linear Dolby NR
Indicator................................44
E1. Digital Sound / Hi-Fi Indicator...........44
F1. Surround Sound Mode Indicator.............44
G1. Multi Audio Indicator.....................45
H1. LucasFilm THX Sound System Indicator......45
I1. Q-Sound Indicator.........................45
J1. Color Status Indicator....................45
K1. Close Captioned / Subtitles Indicator.....45
L1. Widescreen Format Indicator...............45
M1. Digital Video Transfer Indicator..........45
N1. Additional Footage Indicator..............45
O1. Theatrical Trailer Indicator..............45
P1. Color Bar Test Pattern Indicator..........45
Q1. Super Laser Indicator.....................46
R1. Extended Play Format Indicator............46
S1. Standard Play Format Indicator............46
T1. Special Jacket Indicator..................46
U1. Minute Only Encoded Indicator.............46
V1. Table of Contents Indicator...............46
W1. Supplemental Indicator....................46
X1. Surround Sound Test Pattern Indicator.....46
Y1. Disc Type Indicator.......................46
Z1. Stereo Select.............................47
A2. Surround Select...........................47
B2. Spectral Select...........................47
C2. Super Laser Select........................47
D2. CX Noise Reduction Select.................48
E2. Linear Dolby B NR Select..................48
F2. Digital Sound Select......................48
G2. Hi-Fi Recording Select....................48
H2. Color Select..............................49
I2. Close Caption Select......................49
J2. Widescreen Select.........................49
K2. Recording Format Select (LaserDisc).......51
L2. Recording Format Select (Video Tape)......52
M2. Library Select............................52
N2. Release Year..............................52
O2. MPAA Rating...............................53
P2. Run Time..................................53
Q2. Library Indicator.........................53
R2. Category..................................53
S2. Production Studio.........................53
T2. Releasing Studio..........................53
DiscTrak System Documentation Page v
U2. Catalog Number............................53
V2. Side / Program Number.....................54
W2. Chapters / Starting Counter...............54
X2. Year Issued...............................54
Y2. Episodes..................................55
Z2. Purchase Date.............................55
A3. Purchase Price............................55
B3. Replication / Manufacturer................55
C3. Distributor...............................56
D3. Video Released Label......................56
E3. Cast......................................56
F3. Producer..................................56
G3. Executive Producer........................56
H3. Music by..................................56
I3. Written by................................56
J3. Screenplay by.............................57
K3. Director..................................57
L3. Special Features..........................57
M3. Short Side CAV............................57
N3. Odd Side Extended Play....................57
O3. Side Number (SSCAV, Odd CLV)..............57
P3. Magnetic Audio Master.....................58
Q3. Number of Magnetic Tracks.................58
R3. Cinema Digital Sound Select...............58
S3. Supplemental Material Select..............58
T3. Additional Footage Select.................58
U3. Theatrical Trailer Select.................58
V3. Special Jacket Select.....................59
W3. Disc Type Select..........................60
X3. Digital Video Transfer Select.............60
Y3. LucasFilm THX Sound System Select.........61
Z3. Mixed in Q-Sound Select...................61
A4. Table of Contents Select..................61
B4. Subtitles Select..........................61
C4. Surround Sound Audio Check................61
D4. Color Bar Pattern.........................62
E4. Multi-Audio Type Select...................62
F4. Bilingual Select..........................63
G4. Minute Encoded Only Select................63
H4. Side number (Minute Only).................63
I4. Manual CX Switch Select...................63
J4. Side Number (Manual CX)...................64
K4. Brown Tint Select (Sepia Tone)............64
L3. Episode Number............................64
M3. Episode Title.............................64
N3. Episode Air Date..........................64
O3. Episode Run Time..........................65
DiscTrak System Documentation Page vi
P4. Chapter Index Information.................65
Q4. Format Select (Compact Disc)..............65
R4. Format Select (Cassette Tape &
Record Album)............................66
S4. Noise Reduction Format....................66
T4. Special Recording Format..................66
U4. Dolby HX Pro Select.......................67
V4. XDR Select................................67
W4. Q-Sound Select............................67
X4. Dolby Surround Select.....................67
Y4. Artist....................................68
Z4. Title.....................................68
A5. Label.....................................68
B5. Distributor...............................68
C5. Recording Format / Noise Reduction
Indicator................................68
D5. Special Format (Compact Disc)
Format (Cassette Tape / Record Album)
Indicator................................68
E5. Catalog Number............................69
F5. Category..................................69
G5. Special...................................69
H5. Library...................................69
I5. Release Year..............................69
J5. Tracks....................................69
K5. Audio Run.................................70
L5. Video Run.................................70
M5. Track Titles..............................70
N5. Song Run Times............................70
XXII: Association of Shareware Professionals........70
XXIII: Legal Tidbits.................................71
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 1
I: WARRANTY AND LICENSE TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Please review the following terms and conditions carefully.
By using this software, you indicate your acceptance of such
terms and conditions and agree to be bound by them.
This is a legal agreement between you, the end user, and Blam
Entertainment Group. By using this software, you are agreeing
to be bound by the terms and conditions of this agreement. If
you do not agree to the terms and conditions of this
agreement, you must destroy all copies of this program and its
associated documentation, whether in printed or computer
readable form.
This software and all associated documentation are the
copyrighted property of Blaine R. Young and Blam Entertainment
Group. All references to Blam Entertainment Group within this
document and its associated software refer to Blam
Entertainment Group and all its representatives, including but
not limited to Blaine R. Young.
Bulletin Board Systems, diskette duplication companies,
shareware vendors and the agents of each where this software
may be found are not in any way affiliated with Blam
Entertainment Group. They serve as distribution points only.
Blam Entertainment Group hereby disclaims all warranties
relating to this software, whether expressed or implied,
including without limitation any implied warranties of
merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Blam
Entertainment Group shall not be liable for any special,
incidental, consequential, indirect or similar damages due to
loss of data, loss of business profits, business interruption
or any other reason, even if Blam Entertainment Group has been
advised of the possibility of such damages. In no event shall
Blam Entertainment Group's liability for any damages ever
exceed the price paid to register the use of this software,
regardless of the form of the claim.
Should this software prove to be defective, the user assumes
the responsibility of paying the entire cost of all necessary
servicing, repair, or correction of any incidental or
consequential damages.
Blam Entertainment Group does not warrant that the functions
contained in this program will meet your requirements or that
the operation of this software will be uninterrupted or error
free. You also assume the responsibility for the selection of
this software to achieve your intended results, and for the
installation, use and results obtained from this software.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 2
You are granted a limited non-exclusive license to use, copy
and distribute this software under the following conditions:
(a) This software must be distributed free of charge, except
to defray expenses incurred during duplication. Connection or
subscription fees to access bulletin board systems are not
duplication costs. (b) This software must be unmodified in any
way, with all files intact. You may only distribute the files
as shipped to you on the distribution diskette or within the
archive file.
If any provision of this agreement is found void, invalid or
unenforceable, it will not affect the validity of the balance
of this agreement, which shall remain valid and enforceable
according to its terms and conditions.
This license is effective until terminated. You may terminate
it at any time by destroying this software together with all
copies of the documentation whether in computer readable or
printed form.
You may not use, copy, rent, lease, sell, transfer, modify,
decompile, disassemble or otherwise reverse engineer this
software or its associated documentation except as provided in
this agreement. Any such unauthorized act shall result in
immediate and automatic termination of this license.
All rights not expressly granted here are reserved by Blam
Entertainment Group including the right to update the program
and/or documentation without formal notice of any kind.
Should any troubles occur, support is available for any
version of this software by telephone or mail. Please notify
us of any errors in this software or its associated
documentation at the address or phone number below.
Blaine R. Young
Blam Entertainment Group
916 Tanguay Court
Kanata, ONT CANADA K2L 3X5
(613) 591-7777
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 3
II: IMPORTANT NOTICES
In order for DiscTrak System to operate to it's full
potential, your computers AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS may
require adjustment. Refer to your DOS documentation for full
instructions regarding modifying and/or creating your
AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS files.
1. AUTOEXEC.BAT
Your AUTOEXEC.BAT file should contain the following line
to allow the printed reports to be output correctly.
PRINT /D:PRN
PRINT.COM (or PRINT.EXE depending on DOS version) is a
file supplied with DOS which runs resident and allows
files to be printed while the computer is doing other
things. DOS MUST be able to locate PRINT in order for
DiscTrak System to use it. This file is usually located
in the DOS subdirectory which should be located in the
PATH= statement in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file. Consult your
DOS manual on the full functions of PRINT and the uses of
the PATH statement.
2. CONFIG.SYS
DiscTrak can open and use up to 10 files at any given
moment. With the numerous files which may be open prior
to running DiscTrak System, the system will require more
file handles than DOS provides by default. For this
reason, the following line must be included in your
CONFIG.SYS file.
FILES=20
If your CONFIG.SYS already includes a files command, make
sure it's value is at least 20. DiscTrak System will not
honour any file handles above 8 if the files are loaded
into high memory. All file handles should be located in
conventional memory.
III: SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
MS/DOS Version 2.1 or Greater
512k Minimum Ram
Monochrome Monitor Supported
Color Monitor (CGA/EGA/VGA/MCGA/SVGA) Recommended
Hard Drive Recommended
8mhz or faster System Clock Recommended
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 4
IV: CONCEPT
The DiscTrak System was written to keep track of an ever
growing number of Laser Video Discs and Compact Audio Discs.
As this program matured through it's various incarnations, it
occurred to us that this could be something everyone could
use. From those early days the program has grown
astronomically, into what has been described a very
comprehensive and complete program.
V: GENERAL
DiscTrak System is a series of 33 files, two installation
files and numerous possible report and other files. Seven of
these files are issued in the archive file "DT-170.ZIP" (the
.ZIP extension may differ depending on the archive program
used.) or on the distribution diskette, depending on where you
acquired the program. The installation program creates two
program files, five documentation files and two windows
related files. The DiscTrak program itself creates the 19
remaining program files. These files consist of four Master
Databases and a series of five Slave Databases, manually
related back to the Masters, nine indexes and one
configuration file.
This program is written and tested on a Intel 386DX running at
20mHz, a 286 operating at 10mHz, and has been tested on all PC
based processors and speeds available. At the slower speeds,
the data compression/decompression will take time, especially
when working with records containing very large numbers of
chapter indexes and track titles. These waits are not
intolerable but for this reason alone, the 8mhz clock speed is
recommended.
The recommendation for a hard drive is not forced. DiscTrak
will allow the use of a SINGLE floppy drive system. However,
using DiscTrak on floppy disks is slower and severely limits
the ability to track large numbers of discs and/or tapes.
With the vast amounts of data it is possible to track, the
floppy will not be in your best interest. This program DOES
NOT support the use of dual floppy disk drives.
Color monitors are recommended. Actually, the better the
monitor, the better this program looks. We have found that
reading text on CGA screens is a pain. But if that's all
you've got, we decided to let it go at that and not force you
to go out and buy a $3000 monitor to run our programs. Aren't
we nice?
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 5
Trust us when we talk about the RAM requirements. This
program will use every byte it can get it's hands on and is
very nasty if there isn't enough. Once loaded you shouldn't
have any problems, however.
This software is incompatible with EXPANDED Memory. It must
be disabled before running DiscTrak System. For your
convenience, we disable all memory between 640k and 1024k for
use with all CLIPPER COMPILED APPLICATIONS automatically.
This condition will be cleared on exiting the program. While
in the DOS SHELL, this condition will still be in effect,
however access to expanded memory which may be used by other
programs is not affected.
DiscTrak System is not particular when it comes to upper or
lower case. It doesn't care if you type everything in all
caps, all little letters or a mix of the two. Be happy and
enter the data as you wish. However, this is not a spelling
program. If you spelled a title wrong, and then spell it
right while trying to locate it, you're out of luck. Try to
remember to spell things correctly, or at least spell them the
same wrong way consistently.
SPECIAL NOTES ABOUT MICROSOFT WINDOWS:
DiscTrak System will run properly under Microsoft Windows 3.0
or higher, provided certain considerations are made. For your
convenience, a default .PIF file and .ICO file have been
included which will assist you. When invoking DiscTrak from
windows, reference the .PIF file on the command line. The
load file for DiscTrak, DT.EXE, does not like being inside the
first 64k of memory inside windows. The .PIF file will call
LOADFIX.COM, a DOS file, before loading. This will prevent
troubles invoking the DOS Shell from inside DiscTrak and
additional problems when exiting from Windows.
DiscTrak System may not run well within it's own window in 386
Enhanced mode. It is possible for the screen to write
incorrectly, leaving parts of the screen blank or possibly
from previous screens. Remember the base memory requirements
when modifying or creating the .PIF file.
VI: ABOUT THE MODES
DiscTrak will accurately track all of your Laser Video Discs,
Compact Discs, Video Tapes, Record Albums and Audio Tapes.
Each format is maintained within it's own database to keep the
program simple. The only exception is the Record Albums and
Cassette Tapes. These formats share a common database.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 6
1. LaserDisc
The most comprehensive home video cataloging program ever
seen, made even more extensive by tracking specifically
the choice of videophiles. The LaserDisc has been around
since 1978 but it's been in just the last few years that
this format has received wide acceptance.
DiscTrak centers on this incredible format. Specific
information tracked here includes the year of the
original release of the program on the disc as well as
the year the disc was released. Also included is the
ability to track for additional footage, supplemental
material, LucasFilm THX Sound System remixing, closed
captioning, digital sound, individual chapter index
titles (up to 999 per LaserDisc entry) and many other
things.
In 1990, the term LaserDisc became the recognized term
for the Laser Video Disc format and its variations
worldwide. While this mode was designed exclusively for
the LaserDisc format, it is compatible to some extent
with the now defunct CED Videodisc System from RCA.
2. Video Tape
This mode was designed with the VHS format in mind.
However, it is not specifically limited to this format.
References to tape speeds, such as SLP/EP, LP and SP are
taken from the recognized standards within the VHS
format.
There are several tape formats available to users of this
program including D1 & D2 digital, 1 inch open reel, 3/4
inch open reel, 3/4 inch U-Matic, VHS, S-VHS, VHS-C,
S-VHS-C, Beta, Beta ED, Beta Hi-Fi, SuperBeta, 8mm, Hi-8,
and the Fisher Price Company Camcorder. Making
allowances for all these different formats and the
possible recording speeds available for each would be an
incredible waste of code and time. When broken down into
their basic components, all formats do the same thing,
just in a different way.
Therefore, everything's been lumped into a general
purpose format. There are fields that can be used for
any particular purpose to track additional information I
haven't provided for. I'll explain fields later.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 7
As for the information followed by the program, it is
almost screen for screen the same as the LaserDisc mode.
You can keep track of up to 8 major cast members and 6 of
the production staff. Even keep track of those pesky
previews that haunt us at every corner. The main
differences center around the specific formats such as
Hi-Fi, Dolby B Noise Reduction and counter position.
3. Compact Disc
In 1983 when the Compact Disc appeared on the market, who
could have predicted it's incredible rise to dominate the
recording industry. With our program, you can keep track
of running time, record label, year of issue and most
importantly, the titles and running times of the
individual songs on the disc itself (up to 999 per
Compact Disc entry).
Also available are flags for CD+Graphics discs, the short
lived CD-Video 5" gold Video Discs and the even shorter
lived CD-3, as well as Q-Sound encoding and Dolby
Surround recording.
4. Cassette Tape / Record Album
Everything about the Cassette Tape / Record Album mode
directly mirrors the Compact Disc mode with only minor
exceptions. Instead of asking your for things like AAD
& DDD, it asks you for Noise Reduction characteristics.
In addition, the mode will track tape types such as Metal
and Chrome.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 8
VII: A NOTE ABOUT REGISTRATION
This software is written with the user supported shareware
concept in mind. It is a copyrighted product. You are
encouraged to copy the program and share it with others. If
you find this program useful, and wish to continue using it
beyond a reasonable evaluation period, registration is
required.
Registration of DiscTrak System will give you the following:
1) Unique serial number
2) Notifications of new versions
3) Free Upgrades (See NEW VERSIONS)
4) For an nominal fee to cover the cost of disks and postage
a diskette with the latest version will be sent.
5) Automatic Upgrade Subscription service is available.
With the release of version 1.50, the program no longer has
limitations for the non registered user. This change brings
us full circle to versions prior to 1.21 where serial numbers
were first introduced.
It is up to you and your conscience to register this software.
Incredible amounts of time and money have been spent during
the development and testing of this program as it now stands.
All this to provide you with the fastest, smallest and most
complete program possible. Please remember our efforts when
you are entering untold numbers of entries into this program
and thinking about the void it fills.
For registration fees and forms, print out DT-ORDER.DOC for
registration and DT-SUBS.DOC for the subscription service.
VIII: PROGRAM LIMITATION
DiscTrak is not limited in the number of record it can store,
except by the size of the drive you're using. However there
is a limit to how many records the program can keep track of
in the Program Information Screen and in remembering the last
active record in each mode. This limit is 9,999,999 records,
per mode. If you begin to approach this limit, (I hope you
have a VERY large hard drive) let me know and I'll make
allowances.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 9
IX: UPGRADING TO NEW VERSIONS
Upgrades of DiscTrak System are available to everyone, free of
charge. If you receive an upgrade from any Bulletin Board
System (BBS), you will be billed for any long distance charges
from your local phone company, provided you're calling long
distance. You may also be required to pay a registration fee
to access a particular BBS. These charges are independent of
the registration fee for DiscTrak System.
Blam Entertainment Group will try to keep all the major
diskette duplicators up to date on the current revision of
DiscTrak System. Upgrades are also available directly from
Blam Entertainment Group, but registration is mandatory.
Registered users of DiscTrak System may obtain a current copy
of the program on diskette by filling out the "DT-ORDER.DOC"
included with this package. Upgrade charges are listed in
that document.
Blam Entertainment Group offers a subscription service for our
registered users. For a small processing fee, you can
automatically receive all new versions of DiscTrak System.
Simply fill out "DT-SUBS.DOC" to apply. Current fees are
listed in that document.
If you're using a version of DiscTrak older than version 1.30
and you've renamed your copy of the .EXE file for DiscTrak
System to something other than "DT-xxx.EXE" (where xxx is the
version number of the program, ie, DT-131.EXE is the file name
for version 1.31), please rename accordingly.
If you have a file called "DT.EXE" in the DiscTrak directory,
please delete it or rename it. The "DT.EXE" file distributed
with this version of DiscTrak is exclusive to this release.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 10
X: APPLYING UPDATES
This program incorporates an automatic update routine. It
will apply itself the first time you run the program. This
version of DiscTrak incorporates updates from the following
versions:
1.18, 1.19, 1.20, 1.21, 1.22, 1.30, 1.31,
1.40, 1.50, 1.60, 1.61, 1.62.
DiscTrak System will apply any updates necessary and activate
the Automatic Registration Transfer if applicable upon the
first execution of a new version. Previous versions of
DiscTrak System will not be removed from your drive. Once the
updates have been applied, however, the databases will no
longer work with older versions of the program.
Below is a sample version number for DiscTrak System. The
version stated is not necessarily a valid version. This chart
documents when updates are required, based on version number.
This is valid for version 1.30 and newer.
Version 1.401
| ||\-- Bug Fix load ----\ No updates are
| |\--- Version number --/ required when
| | changed
| |
| \---- Version number --\ Updates are
\------ Series Number ---/ required when
changed
XI: AUTOMATIC REGISTRATION TRANSFER
DiscTrak System will read the serial number out of your
previous version and install it in the new file, provided the
version you are upgrading from is 1.21 or greater. The
previous version of the .EXE file must be present for the
transfer to take place.
The Automatic Registration Transfer process is keyed off the
first three numbers in the version number. In the example
above, the transfer key is 140. With this example in mind, if
you are currently using version 1.40 and upgrade to the bug
fix load 1.401, the transfer keys are the same for both loads.
In this case the Automatic Registration Transfer process will
not run, and manual installation of the serial number into the
bug fix load is required. As long as the key in the old
version is different from the key on the new, the process will
run correctly.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 11
XII: DOS COMMAND LINE
DiscTrak remembers the last mode active and automatically
defaults that mode upon loading of the program. The first
time the program is loaded, the LaserDisc mode is loaded by
default. When one of the command line switches below are
used, they override the default.
The command line looks like this:
DT [option]
Options are:
L = for the LaserDisc mode
V = for the Video Tape mode
C = for the Compact Disc mode
T = for the Cassette Tape / Record Album Mode
XIII: PROGRAM INSTALLATION
Since you're reading this document, you have already installed
the program. But for the purposes of completeness, here you
go.
The install program can be run from any drive or directory by
simply typing INSTALL. The command line is as displayed
below:
INSTALL [target drive/directory]
ie: INSTALL C:\DISCTRAK
The [target drive/directory] is optional. If specified, the
files will be installed into the specified directory of the
specified drive. If the source and target drives are the
same, you are you may omit the drive letter. The directory
does not need to exist as the install program will create it
automatically. If no target is specified, the currently
selected drive and directory will be used. THERE IS NOT
ENOUGH ROOM TO INSTALL THIS SOFTWARE ONTO A 360k DISKETTE, SO
DON'T TRY.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 12
The following files should be present: Files beginning with
"*" are created by the installation program. All others were
shipped on the diskette or included in the archive file.
File Name: Purpose of File:
------------ ----------------------------------------------
*DT-170.EXE Main program file.
*DT.EXE System Start Up File
*DT.ICO Microsoft Windows 3.x Icon File
*DT.PIF Microsoft Windows 3.x Program Information File
*DT-NEW.DOC Revision history information.
*DT-ORDER.DOC Registration order form.
*DT-READ.ME Important program operation information.
*DT-SUBS.DOC User subscription order form.
*DT-USER.DOC Complete system documentation. Includes
warranty, registration and usage information.
INSTALL.EXE Installation file which creates the program.
PACKING.LST Listing of all supplied programs and files.
FILE_ID.DIZ BBS File Description
INSTALL.DOC Important installation information.
SUBSCRPT.DOC Vendor/BBS Subscription order form.
SYSOP.DOC Information for BBS Distribution.
VENDOR.DOC Information for disk vendors, distributors,
user groups, and more.
Do not use any of the above files from any other version of
DiscTrak System. The .PIF and .ICO may be safely used with
other versions of DiscTrak System.
At the DOS prompt, enter "DT" and press <ENTER>. The program
will load and the title screen will appear. If this is the
first time you've used DiscTrak, the program will prompt you
that the database files are missing and ask if you would like
to create them. Answering "No" will exit the program. Create
the files and you will next be presented with the Main Menu.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 13
XIV: KEYBOARD CONTROL
There are several shortcuts when using DiscTrak System to move
quickly around the screen.
All options in all menus and all YES/NO questions are single
key driven, using the first letter of the option. You may
also use the cursor keys to move the highlight bar up and
down, pressing <ENTER> on the desired option.
On a color monitor, when editing or adding a record, the field
you are working on is red with intense white letters. Other
fields are white with red letters. If you have a monochrome
monitor, the selected field is in inverse video from the rest
of the screen.
When editing or adding, the following keys are active.
Right Arrow Move one character to right
Left Arrow Move one character to left
Ctrl Rt Arrow Skip one word to right
Ctrl Lt Arrow Skip one word to left
Up Arrow Move to previous field
Down Arrow Move to next field
Ctrl T Delete to end of word
Ctrl U Restore data to field
Ctrl Y Delete from cursor to end of field
Home Beginning of field
Ctrl Home Beginning of first field on page
End End of data or end of field if no data
Ctrl End Beginning of last field on page
Page Down Next Page, changes saved
Page Up In the track/chapter/episode edit & view
screens, this will step back one screen. In
all other screens, the next page will be
displayed.
Delete Delete character at cursor
Backspace Delete character to left of cursor
ESC Next Page, No changes saved. Except in the
track/chapter/episode edit & view screens,
where the program will exit from the current
routine and changes on current screen will not
be saved.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 14
XV: MAIN MENU
Everything you will do in DiscTrak will be initiated from the
Main Menu. Across the bottom of the screen is a program line.
This line will be visible the during the entire program. As
for the options, we'll start at the top of the menu.
1. Edit Menu
This brings up a new menu to allow for database
manipulation. The options include editing, adding,
viewing, printing, etc. Detailed explanations of the
options are forthcoming.
2. Report Menu
This brings up a menu for the system's printed reports.
All reports are written directly to disk. The various
options will be detailed later.
3. Scan Records
a. LaserDisc / Video Tape
A menu will appear and you will be asked to select
from Cast, Production Credits, Episodes, Special
Features or, in the LaserDisc mode only, Index of
Chapters. Once selected, enter the information you
wish to scan for. Any part of the information to
search for is allowed, beginning, middle, end or
anything in-between. The program will scan for
anything that specifically matches the search
string you've requested within the area you've
specified.
b. Compact Disc & Cassette Tape / Record Album
Enter the title of the song you wish to search for.
As stated above, this doesn't have to be the entire
title, just some portion of the title.
Once the scan is complete, a menu will appear which looks
almost identical to the Edit Menu explained later. The
only change is one option, Match Report, which creates a
report containing all matches. The records will be
presented sorted by Catalog Number. The format for the
display is the same as the VIEW option under the EDIT
MENU. You can view one, two all or none of the matches,
in any order you desire. Refer to the EDIT MENU section
for an explanation of each option.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 15
After each selected operation, the menu will be returned.
This is true except for the MATCH REPORT option which
will return to the main menu, so be sure to use that
option after viewing or printing any of the other
matches.
4. Utility Menu
This brings up a menu for the systems utilities.
Operations available from this menu include sorting the
database and storing the .DBF files within either a Zip,
LZH or ARJ archive. DOS Shell and Program information
are also in this menu. Details to follow.
5. Mode Select
This will bring up a menu of choices to select between
the four operating modes of DiscTrak System. LaserDisc,
Video Tapes, Compact Discs and Cassette Tapes / Record
Albums are the available modes.
6. Configuration Menu
This is a menu to set all of DiscTrak System's variables.
Included are Extended Character switches, Archive Program
options, Report format, Printer Setup and Printer Code
switches. Details to follow.
7. Quit Program
System exit. A maintenance routine will run before
exiting. This maintenance will delete any records you've
marked for deletion. This is basically the same as the
Sort Files option, but no sorting takes place. DiscTrak
will exit to DOS when finished.
XVI: EDIT MENU / MATCH MENU
The databases in all modes are modified through this menu.
The system automatically knows which files to use, depending
on the mode. Across the bottom of the screen, DiscTrak will
display three fields from the currently selected record:
Title and Video Label for LaserDisc and Video Tapes, Artist
and Title for Compact Discs and Cassette Tapes / Record Albums
and in all modes, the catalog number. The Edit Menu / Match
Menu will remain active until QUIT MENU has been selected.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 16
1. Find Record
The system will search for the selected title or artist,
depending on the mode and either display that title on
the selection line or tell you the title / artist doesn't
exist as typed. If DiscTrak can't find an exact match,
it will search the entire title/artist field for the
match and display it if applicable. If no match is found
however, the displayed record will be the record active
before the find option was selected. This option is not
available in the Match Menu.
2. Add a Record
This will add a blank record to the existing database.
In the LaserDisc and Video Tape modes, you will be
prompted to enter a title for the new record. You will
then proceed to EDIT RECORD to enter the actual data.
Refer to that section for full details. This option is
not available in the Match Menu.
After adding a record, the system will ask you if you
wish to add another record. If you answer "Yes", the add
routine is repeated. The default "No" will take you back
to the main menu.
3. Match Report
Available only from the Match menu, this option will
print all the matches found during a Scan Records
session. The format for this report will be the same as
any report run from the Report Menu and will be grouped
by Catalog Number. See the Report Menu section and Scan
Records section for details.
4. Edit Record
The sample screens and the legend that follows will help
in the understanding of what DiscTrak is trying to say.
They will help you from being confused. This option is
not available in the Match Menu.
This option is executed automatically when you are adding
a record to the database.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 17
If you are a previous user of DiscTrak System, it is
possible that some deletion could take place on SLAVES 1
& 4 when exiting the program. This is normal and is a
result of new data storage routines which were
incorporated in versions 1.61 and 1.70. This is normal.
Trust me.
This is like an elementary school quiz, fill in the
blanks. Follow the steps below, referencing the sample
screens and their explanations, and try not to get too
far behind.
a. LaserDisc & Video Tape:
1. Screen One
The top half the screen will display the
current information on the selected title.
This information is provided to help you
answer the displayed question. DO YOU WISH TO
EDIT THE DISC/TAPE FORMAT INFORMATION? If
you're adding a record, this question will be
skipped, sending you straight to the
questions. If you're editing an existing
record, the default answer is "No".
An answer of "No" takes you directly to screen
two. When you answer "Yes", you will be
prompted with the questions in the sample
screens, one at a time. The default answers
for each is highlighted by the cursor bar. If
you are modifying an existing record, the
default answer will reflect the current state
of the database for each question. For
example, if the record is in the MOVIE
library, the highlight bar for the Library
question will be on the "Movie" selection, if
the record is in the NON-MOVIE Library, the
default will be "Non-Movie".
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 18
2. Screen Two
The lower half of the screen will refresh,
updating the answers on the top of the screen
if necessary. All data fields will be
displayed at once, allowing you to use the
cursor keys to select the field for
modification. Refer to KEYBOARD CONTROL for a
description of how to move around the screen.
Fill in the blanks and keep going. The next
screen will come up automatically.
You must press either <Page Down> or <ENTER>
on the last field in order to proceed to the
next screen. The cursor keys will not move
you to the next screen.
Between screens two and three, if DiscTrak
System detects any change in the catalog
number or if you're adding a record, the
program will scan for duplication. If it finds
any record in either the LaserDisc or Video
Tape modes using the specified catalog number
already, you will be prompted to enter a new
number for your current record. Each new
number will also be verified.
3. Screen Three and Four
Screen three is where you enter the Cast and
Production Credits information. Screen four
will come up when you're finished and allow
you to enter any Special Information which may
be applicable to the current record.
4. Screen Five
Screen five uses the same basic format as
screen one. It's pop quiz time. You will
again be asked if you want to answer the
questions, except if adding a record, where
the questions are automatically asked. Like
screen one, these will also appear one at a
time.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 19
DiscTrak System will only ask questions which
are valid based on the information you've
already entered. For example, in the
LaserDisc mode you will not be asked if the
disc is encoded with a Table of Contents (TOC)
if there are no chapter indexes recorded on
the disc. If the question does not apply,
DiscTrak simply doesn't ask it. Don't be
alarmed if a question or two gets skipped.
The cursor bar highlights the default answer
for each question. If you are editing an
existing record, the default position of the
highlight bar will change to reflect the
current state, the same way it did back on
screen one. (Do you remember that far back?)
Again, use the sample screens and their
explanations. If you don't, nothing bad will
happen, but you may need the stress relief
method of your choice before too long.
5. Screen Six
Screen six is an expansion of what used to be
on screen four. As collections of LaserDiscs
become available to the public of old
television shows, the need to track more than
4 episodes per disc became necessary. This
screen will ask if you wish to enter the
Episode information and like before, the
asking nicely will be skipped if you're adding
a record. There are four fields of data to
fill in per episode, Episode Number, Title,
Air-Date and Run Time. These fields will be
displayed in groups of 10 episodes, paging to
the next screen when appropriate, up to 99
episodes. Pressing PAGE UP will take you back
one screen, PAGE DOWN will force you to the
next screen. This screen will be skipped if
there is no episode information to be entered.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 20
6. Screen Seven
When first entering screen seven, you will be
asked if you wish to enter the Chapter Index
Information. And like the last three times
we've discussed this type of a question,
you'll be sent straight to the editing form if
you're adding a new record. This is the area
for the individual chapter stops placed on the
disc. The number of fields is determined by
how may chapters were specified on screen two.
They will be displayed in groups of 10, up to
999 chapter indexes. Once the first ten
chapters are filled in, the next group of 10
will be presented, until you reach the total
number of chapters specified. Again, the PAGE
UP and PAGE DOWN keys work on this screen.
This screen will be skipped if no chapter
index information is encoded on the LaserDisc,
or if you're in the Video Tape mode.
b. Compact Disc & Cassette Tape / Record Album:
The first screen is much like the first screen back
in the LaserDisc and Video Tape modes. You must
answer these questions when adding a disc/tape for
the first time. You are asked four questions about
the disc in the Compact Disc mode and six questions
in the Cassette Tape / Record Album mode. Once
they are answered, the next screen will pop up,
looking much like the CD Sample Screen in the
screen section.
When first entering this screen, the area for song
titles will remain blank until the number of tracks
field has been entered and read. Once you're ready
to enter the titles, you will be asked if you want
to edit the information, unless your adding a
record where you will jump straight to the data
entry. The correct number of spaces will appear,
in groups of 10. Once the first ten titles and
their running times are filled in, the next group
of 10 will be presented, until you reach the total
number of tracks entered in the tracks field. PAGE
UP and PAGE DOWN keys will work accordingly on this
screen.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 21
Once all titles are entered, DiscTrak will
calculate the running times of all the tracks and
advise you of any discrepancies between the AUDIO
RUN time and the Calculated Time. If the times do
not match, you will be asked if you wish to replace
the entered time with the calculated time. This
routine can be disabled with a switch in the
Configuration Menu. This routine is not available
in the Compact Disc mode on discs marked with CDV,
as these discs have two different run times. It is
available at all other times.
5. View Record
Once you've found the record you want, this option will
view that record. In all modes, the top section of the
screen will remain constant, displaying information
regarding the specific record. See the sample screens
under Edit for specifics.
The lower section of the screen is paged. It is possible
for several pages to follow, up to 110 pages to be exact,
depending on the information for that record. If there
are additional pages, the system will prompt with "More"
in the upper left corner of the screen indicating to
press any key to advance to the next page. If "More"
does not appear, the last page is being displayed and any
key press will take you back to the MAIN MENU. Any
screen which has no data to be displayed will be skipped.
If viewing the Chapters of a LaserDisc, Episodes on a
LaserDisc or Videotape, or the Song Titles of a Compact
Disc or Cassette Tape, pressing the ESC key will skip all
remaining pages and proceed to the next valid menu.
Pressing PAGE UP will take you back one screen.
a. LaserDisc
The top portion of the screen differs from what you
see in the sample screens. You will see the actual
words to display the saved information. There are
no special symbols to decode.
The first screen includes motion picture rating,
run time, number of sides, production company,
catalog number, home video label, etc. Screen two
displays the Cast and the Production Credits,
provided there are any. The third screen shows
special features information.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 22
The fourth screen displays up to 99 episodes,
grouped by 10. Pressing ESC will skip the episode
display automatically. This series of screens will
be skipped if there are no episodes to display.
The remainder of the screens are for the displaying
of the Chapter Index information. This data will
be grouped by 10 chapters. Remember the use of the
ESC key to skip viewing all of the 999 possible
chapter indexes per disc record. These screens
will also be skipped if empty.
b. Video Tape
A mirror image of the LaserDisc mode. Subtle
differences exist to compensate for things like
recording speed, beginning tape counter position,
Dolby Noise Reduction and Hi-Fi Recording.
References to things specific to LaserDisc have
been removed like Jacket Type, disc type and Multi-
Channel Audio. This mode does not support the
Chapter index information screens, but does support
the use of Episode information.
c. Compact Disc and Cassette Tape / Record Album
Pages are the actual names of the titles of each
song and their associated running times located on
each disc or tape, group by 10. Remember the ESC
key if you don't want to step through all of the
possible 999 entries per disc record.
For all modes, please see the Edit Section and the
associated sample screens for the exact information as
displayed.
6. Record Print
This option prints the currently selected record on a
single 8.5 x 11" sheet of paper. The data printed out is
the exact same information displayed with the View
option, but only on paper and without the pauses between
screens.
DiscTrak System tests for the presence of a parallel
printer before printing the information. If it can't
find one or it is off line, the program will write the
file directly to the current drive and directory using
the following format to determine the name of the file.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 23
C:\DISCTRAK\DT-xxxxx.TXT
\----------/\-/\---/ \-/
| | | \- Standard Extension
| | \------ Seconds Elapsed Since Midnight
| \---------- Standard Header
\----------------- Sample Drive/Directory
This name will be displayed on the screen while the
printout is being written.
7. Next Record
Jumps one record forward.
8. Previous Record
Jumps one record backward.
9. Quit Menu
Returns to MAIN MENU.
XVII: REPORT MENU
This facility will create ASCII reports in three possible
formats. The default report is the SMALL report which is 132
characters across by 62 lines per page. Then next report is
the LANDSCAPE report and is 156 characters across by 47 lines
down, per page. The third report PORTRAIT and is also 156
characters across, but is 62 lines per page. Which report is
written is specified by selecting the proper option in the
CONFIGURATION MENU, explained later.
If your printer supports a landscape font with 15 cpi
printing, this is the basic premise LANDSCAPE report. You can
also use an external program which will allow the document to
be printed sideways on the page. The PORTRAIT report will
format the report onto 8 1/2" paper, in 20cpi format. For the
SMALL report, any printer capable of 15 cpi will print these
reports just fine.
All reports are written directly do disk, regardless of which
report format you chose. Any printer codes you've programmed
into the program inside the CONFIGURATION MENU will be
inserted into the proper report. Each report setup string
will get added to the beginning of the report, with the clear
down string being added at the end. However, if you've
selected the Codes to Off in the CONFIGURATION MENU, no codes
will be included in any report.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 24
Once the report is written, you will be asked if you wish to
print the report. If "Yes", DiscTrak calls up the DOS program
PRINT which will print the report. If the printout is not
desired at this time or you're going to use an external
program to print, select NO and control will be returned to
MAIN MENU.
NOTE: PRINT automatically ejects a page from the printer
when printing is complete. In addition, a form
feed code is included in the report to allow easy
removal of the report from tractor feed printers
and to insure proper operation when using external
programs to print. There may be a blank page after
printing is completed. This is not a malfunction.
In all modes except the Compact Disc mode, there are two menus
to step through. The first menu is the Category Menu or
Inclusion Menu. The second menu is the Grouping menu. When
either menu is present, the current report format will be
displayed below the menu box. The Compact Disc Mode does not
display the Category Menu.
1. Category Menu
This menu selects which records to include in the report.
The options are pretty self explanatory. This menu is
skipped completely in the Compact Disc Mode where you
will go directly to the second menu.
a. Report All
This category option will generate a report which
contains all records stored in the current mode.
This is the default selection in all modes.
b. Movie
This option will generate a report which will
contain only those records listed in the MOVIE
Library. It is valid in the LaserDisc and Video
Tape modes only.
c. Non-Movie
Only records in the NON-MOVIE Library will be
included in reports generated with this option.
This is valid in the LaserDisc and Video Tape modes
only.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 25
d. Owned Titles
All titles listed in the Movie, Non-Movie and To Be
Viewed libraries will be included in this report
created from this option. This is valid only for
LaserDisc and Video Tape modes.
e. To Be Viewed
Titles listed in the To Be Viewed library will be
included in reports generated by this option. It
is valid in the LaserDisc and Video Tape modes
only.
f. Coming Soon
Records included in this report must be in the
COMING SOON library. And what a shock, this is for
LaserDiscs and Video Tapes only.
g. Available Now
This report will include records with the library
field set to AVAILABLE NOW. Valid for LaserDiscs
and Video Tapes only.
h. Record Albums Only
This will allow you to create different reports
based only on the Record Albums stored in the
database. This option is exclusive to the Cassette
Tape / Record Album Mode.
i. Cassette Tapes Only
The reports generated with this option will only
include the Cassette Tapes and not the Record
Albums. This is exclusive to the Cassette Tape /
Record Album Mode.
j. Quit Menu
Returns to MAIN MENU.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 26
2. Grouping Menu
Once the category is selected, you'll be prompted to
select the grouping order. Beyond this selection, the
report writer will take over. Inside each grouping, the
records will be listed alphabetically.
a. Title / Artist
Within the LaserDisc and Video Tape modes, the
records selected in the Category Menu will be
grouped alphabetically, by TITLE. In the Compact
Disc and Cassette Tape / Record Album modes, the
records will be grouped by ARTIST and then by Year
of Release. This is the default selection in all
modes.
b. Category
Selected records will be grouped according to their
Category. This option is valid for all modes.
c. Release Year
Within the Compact Disc and Cassette Tape / Record
Album modes, the reports will be grouped on the
Year the title was released, field -I5- in the
sample screens. For the LaserDisc and Video Tape
modes, the report will be grouped by the year the
original program was released. Field -N2- as
referenced by the sample screens.
d. Video / Audio Label
For those of you who really want this report, here
it is. All records valid for the criteria you set
forth are reported by their releasing label or Home
Video label. This is available in all modes.
e. Numbered Catalog
Not that anyone actually asked for reports grouped
by the catalog number, but what the heck. This
will report all applicable records grouped on the
catalog number field. This is available in all
modes of operation.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 27
f. Library
This option is exclusive to the Compact Disc and
Cassette Tape / Record Album modes only. This will
group all records by the library classification. I
have included this in the grouping option because
the library field is strictly random. It can
contain any character or number known to mankind as
long as it only occupies one space and can be typed
from the keyboard.
g. MPAA Rating
This option is presented only in the LaserDisc and
Video Tape modes. If you want a grouping by rating
(nothing, G, PG, PG-13, R, X, NC-17, FAMIL, ADULT)
this option was built for you.
h. Replication
Valid only in the LaserDisc and Video Tape modes,
this option will group the report by the
Replication field. Again, this is if you want to
know, or even care which discs were pressed by 3M,
Technidisc or Digital Audio Disc Corporation.
i. Quit Menu
Like in all other menus, this will return you to
the MAIN MENU.
3. The Reports
Now that you have selected what to report and how to
report it, DiscTrak System runs off and writes the
report. Each report has a unique filename, based by the
report you are running. This filename will be displayed
on the main menu while the report is being written.
Follow the explanation below for the name.
C:\DISCTRAK\DT-LLTEL.TXT
\----------/\-/||||| \-/
| | ||||| \-- Standard Extension
| | ||||\----- Report Format
| | |||\------ Extend Characters/Codes
| | ||\------- Report Grouping
| | |\-------- Report Category
| | \--------- System Mode
| \----------- Standard Prefix
\------------------ Sample Drive/Directory
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 28
a. Prefix
Simply the standard prefix. All reports will have
the "DT-" prefix.
b. System Mode
Which mode generated the report.
L=LaserDisc
V=Video Tape
C=Compact Disc
T=Cassette Tape / Record Album
c. Category
This is selected by the answer to the first menu
choice you made.
R=Report All
M=Movie Records (LaserDisc and Video Tape Mode Only)
N=Non-Movie Records (LD and VCR Mode Only)
O=Owned Titles (LD and VCR Mode Only)
T=To Be Viewed (LD and VCR Mode)
C=Coming Soon (LD and VCR Mode Only)
A=Available Now (LD and VCR Mode)
A=Record Albums Only (Tape/Album Mode)
T=Cassette Tapes Only (Tape/Album Mode)
S=Scan Records/Song Search
d. Grouping
This is derived by the grouping option you selected
back in the second menu.
T=Title (LD and VCR Mode Only)
A=Artist (CD and Tape Mode Only)
C=Category
Y=Year of Release
N=Numbered Catalog
V=Video Label (LD and VCR Mode Only)
R=Record Label (CD and Tape Mode)
L=Library (CD and Tape Mode Only)
M=MPAA Rating (LD and VCR Mode Only)
R=Replication (LD and VCR Mode)
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 29
e. Extend Character / Printer Codes Setting
This is the setting of the Extended Character Set
and the inclusion of printer codes into the reports
as set in the Configuration Menu.
E=Extended Characters (Above ASCII 127), No Codes
F=Extended Characters including Printer Codes
S=Standard Characters (Below ASCII 127), No Codes
T=Standard Characters including Printer Codes
f. Report Format
This is the format of the Report
L=Landscape Report - 156 Characters x 47 Lines
P=Portrait Report - 156 Characters x 62 Lines
S=Small Report - 132 Characters x 62 Lines
g. Extension
This will always be ".TXT"
4. Report Data
The actual body of the reports consist of various types
of information. All pages of the report will have
headers giving page number, program version, time and
date of the report, which mode generated the report and
the report category. Data included in each report varies
only by which report is being run. For example, the
Small report does not contain all the data available in
the Portrait or Landscape reports.
These descriptions are for each of the fields included in
all reports and the meanings of the data. All fields are
included in all reports unless otherwise specified.
a. LaserDisc / Video Tape
1. Catalog Number
Pretty self explanatory.
2. Title
Again, pretty self explanatory.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 30
3. Stereo
There are several possible entries. They are
pretty self explanatory too. The entry for
Digital is spelled without the "a" because of
a database field length. Don't call us for
this apparent typo.
Dolby = Dolby Stereo
Ultra = Ultra*Stereo
Analog = Analog Stereo
Re-mix = Electronically Re-mixed for Stereo
Digitl = Digital Stereo
Mono = Mono
4. SR
Spectral Recording data. This field will be
blank if it does not apply. This field is not
available in the Small report.
SR = Spectral Recording
SD = Spectral Recording Digital
5. CX / DB
CX Noise Reduction in the LaserDisc mode,
Dolby Noise Reduction in the Video Tape mode.
If the field is blank, it does not apply to
the record.
6. Di / HF
Digital Sound in the LaserDisc mode and Hi-Fi
recording in the Video Tape mode. If the
field is blank, the data does not apply.
7. DS
Specifies the type of Surround Sound, if
applicable. This field is not available in
the Small report.
DS = Dolby Surround
US = Ultra Surround
SS = Surround Sound
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 31
8. WS
Details the widescreen ratio used.
PS = Normal Pan & Scan - Full Frame
TV = Made for Video or TV - Full Frame
IM = IMAX Process - Full Frame
TF = Total TV Frame - 1.33:1
FM = Foreign Film Matted - 1.66:1
EM = European Matted - 1.75:1
WS = American Matted - 1.85:1
FW = Scan Matted - 1.85:1
70 = 70mm - 2.1:1
PV = PanaVision - 2.35:1
D7 = Deluxe 70mm - 2.7:1
9. CC
This field will show if the title is closed
captioned. It is not available in the Small
report.
10. CH / CR
In the LaserDisc mode, this is CH which
records the number of chapters on the
LaserDisc. If this number is over 99, "**"
will be reported here. In the Video Tape
mode, this records the first two digits of the
tape counter field. For example if the tape
counter is "1234" then "12" would be reported
here. This field is not available in the
Small report.
11. CLV-CAA-CAV / SP-LP-SLP
These columns are for the recording format of
the program. CLV-CAA-CAV are for the
LaserDisc mode and SP-LP-SLP are for the Video
Tape modes.
CLV = Extended Play
CAA = Extended Play
CAV = Standard Play
SP = Standard Play
LP = Long Play
SLP = Super Long Play / Extended Play
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 32
12. Side / Program
In the LaserDisc mode, this will detail the
number of sides the program occupies. In the
Video Tape mode, this details the sequential
program number, for multiple programs on a
single tape. If this number is greater than
9, "*" will be reported here. This field is
not available in the Small Report.
13. File
In all reports, this will report the Library
setting of the program.
M = Movie
N = Non Movie
C = Coming Soon
A = Available Now
D = Marked for Deletion
14. MPAA Rating
The Motion Picture Association of America
rates almost all movies distributed in the US.
That rating will show up here. If it is
blank, nothing was entered on the record.
15. Run
The program run time.
16. Year
The year the program was originally released
will be displayed here. This field is not
available in the Small report.
17. Category
The program classification. In the small
report, this field may be truncated, depending
on the data.
18. Video Release Label / Replication
Another of those self explanatory fields. If
you select the report to be grouped by
replication, the Video Release Label field
will be replaced by the Replication field.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 33
b. Compact Disc / Cassette Tape
1. Catalog Number
Back to the self explainers.
2. Artist
See what I mean.
3. Title
More of the same. Overstating the obvious.
4. AAD-ADD-DAD-DDD / QS-NR-HX
This one is a little tough. AAD-ADD-DAD-DDD
are for the Compact Disc mode. QS-NR-HX are
for the Cassette Tape mode. This field is not
available in the Small report.
AAD = Analog-Analog-Digital
ADD = Analog-Digital-Digital
DAD = Digital-Analog-Digital
DDD = Digital-Digital-Digital
Q = Q-Sound
B = Dolby B Noise Reduction
C = Dolby C Noise Reduction
S = Dolby S Noise Reduction
X = dbx Noise Reduction System (2nd Column)
X = Dolby HX Pro (3rd Column)
5. DS-D3-DV-DG / FMT-DS-XDR
This one too is a little tough. DS-D3-DV-DG
are for the Compact Disc mode, FMT-DS-XDR are
for the Cassette tape mode. This field is not
present in the Small report.
Compact Disc
D = Dolby Surround - Column 1
DV = CD-Video
D3 = CD3
DG = CD+Graphics
Cassette Tape / Album
D = Dolby Surround - Column 2
X = Extended Dynamic Range
A = Album
N = Normal Tape
C = Chrome Tape
F = Ferrichrome Tape
M = Metal Tape
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 34
6. File
Library classification will be documented
here. This field is not included in the Small
report.
7. CI
Chapter Index documents the total number of
songs in the record. If this field is greater
than 99, "**" will appear in this field.
8. Audio Run
The audio run time of Compact Discs and
Cassette tapes will be detailed here. This
field is not present in the Small Report.
9. Year
The year of the audio program's release.
10. Category
Back to those fairly obscure fields which
require pages and pages to describe. This
field may be truncated in the Small report,
depending on the data.
11. Label
The record label which released the program.
This field may be truncated in the Small
report, depending on the data.
XVIII: UTILITY MENU
The utility menu allows you to perform basic utility
functions. From this menu, you may file sort, archive data
with any of the supported archive programs, display program
information and shell to DOS.
1. File Sort
This will clear all databases of deleted records and sort
them to allow for faster access and data processing.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 35
2. Archive Data
This option will call up one of the supported compression
archive programs as selected in the Configuration Menu,
and create an archive file containing all the .DBF files
for DiscTrak System as well as the .CFG file. This file
will be named "DT-D-xxx.yyy", where xxx is the version of
DiscTrak and yyy is the default extension for the
selected archive program.
The archive programs are not included with DiscTrak
System. You are responsible for their existence. The
supported programs are called "PKZip.EXE", "LHA.EXE" and
"ARJ.EXE". The files must be locatable through your
computers PATH= statement in order for DiscTrak to find
them. In addition, the programs must be called the
default name. Several people rename PKZIP to things like
"ZIP" and "Z". In order for DiscTrak to use these
programs, the names must be as shipped by the author.
LHA used to go by the name "LHARC". Versions of this
compression program called "LHARC" will work with this
program, provided the file is renamed to "LHA.EXE".
NOTE: Starting with version 1.61, the storage routines
have been altered in the Compact Disc and Cassette Tape
modes to take advantage of space. These routines are
included in all modes as of version 1.70. Additionally,
version 1.70 also includes true data compression. These
changes will cause your archives to be larger than you
may be used to. This is completely normal. As we get
smarter, the compression programs have less "wasted
space" to throw out.
3. Reindex Data
From time to time, you may find it necessary to rebuild
the system indexes. If you suspect index corruption,
manifest by program crashes or incorrect displaying of
data or any of a raft of symptoms, rebuilding the index
files is the logical step. This can be accomplished one
of two ways. First is to delete the indexes from DOS and
allow DiscTrak to recreate them as it loads. The other
option is to select this option from within the program.
Both options will accomplish the same thing.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 36
4. Program Info
This is the shareware screen. It will give you
information on the program which will be necessary in the
event you need support. It will also total up the number
of records the program is tracking in each mode and
display that information.
Until you register, you will be reminded that the copy
you are using is unregistered and will display a
registration solicitation message. Once registered, this
screen will display your registration number and will no
longer display the solicitation.
5. DOS Shell
This is our version of a DOS Shell. DiscTrak will clear
itself from memory entirely, except for some minor memory
to maintain the shell. You may run any application your
memory will allow while in this shell. Your existing DOS
Prompt will be amended to include instructions about how
to return to DiscTrak. "EXIT" and <ENTER> will, of
course, return you to the program, restoring your
original prompt and resetting to the proper drive and
directory in the process. The shell requires around 15k
of memory.
6. Quit Menu
Always pesky, that old Quit to Main Menu option raises
it's ugly head in this menu too.
XIX: CONFIGURATION MENU
This menu allow you to setup DiscTrak Systems basic
configurations for things like extended character set, default
compression programs and printer codes for the reports. This
menu will be visible until the Quit option is selected to ease
the number of keystrokes when setting the options.
1. Printer Menu
This option will bring up a menu which will give you a
choice of six printer code fields to fill in. These
fields will be tacked onto the beginning and end of each
report that is run, depending on the Codes option. For
example; the SMALL Setup will be added to the beginning
of the SMALL report, the Reset SMALL codes will be added
to the end of the report.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 37
Enter the exact string of commands you want to send to
the printer. These codes are documented in your printer
manual, or at least they should be. DiscTrak only has
one minor hang up here. We don't like it when control
characters are entered into a field. The characters in
particular are anything below ASCII 32.
To get around this, if your printer string requires any
character from ASCII 1 to ASCII 31 enter ~xx~ instead,
where xx is the decimal value of the character (01-31).
The number in-between the tilde's (~) must be expressed
as a two digit number, for example ~01~, ~02~, etc. Most
printers today require an ESC before a series of codes so
you will most likely have to use this procedure. Be sure
to include the tilde (~) at the beginning and end.
DiscTrak will see this and send the proper characters to
the printer. Be sure not to add extra spaces to the
command line which the printer does not require.
Here is an example. This is the setup string for a
Hewlett Packard DeskJet 500 for 16.67 cpi, Draft Quality
and Landscape page orientation as you would enter it into
the program. This setup string would be perfect for the
LANDSCAPE report on this printer.
~27~(s16.67H~27~(s1Q~27~&l1O
DiscTrak will replace the three occurrences of ~27~ with
the proper ESC character before sending it to the
printer.
2. Report Format Menu
This menu is where the report format is chosen. The
options are Small (132 x 62), Landscape (156 x 47) and
Portrait (156 x 62). The highlight bar will display the
default answer, or the currently set option. Quit Menu
return to the Configuration Menu.
3. Archive Pick Menu
This menu is where the archive programs are chosen. The
supported options are PKWare's PKZip, Yoshizaki's LHA and
Jung's ARJ. The highlight bar will display the default
answer, or the currently set option. Quit Menu return to
the Configuration Menu.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 38
4. Extend CHR On/Off
This option was added to compensate for printers unable
to print the extended character set, (characters over
ASCII 127). The current state of the switch is stated on
the item line. If the character set is currently
enabled, the prompt will say "Extend CHR ON". If the set
is disabled, the prompt will say "Extend CHR OFF". The
answer will be stored and will be set accordingly each
time you load DiscTrak. The default setting is "ON".
5. Codes to On/Off
This option also is a toggle On/Off switch. Use it to
tell DiscTrak not to send the preprogrammed printer codes
to the reports. Default is on, send the codes.
6. Time Calculate On/Off
This option is another On/Off switch. It is used to tell
DiscTrak weither or not to calculate the total running
times of songs included on Compact Discs and Cassette
Tapes. Default is on, calculate running times.
NOTE: DiscTrak will calculate the times
automatically upon adding a Compact Disc or
Cassette Tape / Album. This switch works only
on subsiquent editing of the records.
7. Quit Menu
As with most appearances of the Quit Menu prompt, this
will take you back to the Main menu.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 39
XX: Sample Screens
The actual screens will differ slightly from those shown here.
The field content of each is the same, however.
1. LaserDisc & Video Tape
a. SCREEN ONE
========================LaserDisc / Video Tape Catalog=========================
[....................................-A1-.....................................]
========== Audio ==========|========== Video ==========|======== Disc ========|
| Stereo Type -B1- | Color/Black & White -J1-| Extended Play -R1-|
| Spectral Recording -C1- | Close Cap / Japanese -K1-| Standard Play -S1-|
| CX NR / Dolby B NR -D1- | Widescreen Format -L1-| Special Jacket -T1-|
| Digital Sound/HiFi -E1- |Digital Video Transfer -M1-| Minute Encoded -U1-|
| Surround Mode -F1- | Additional Footage -N1-|Table of Contents -V1-|
| Multi Audio Sound -G1- | Theatrical Trailer -O1-| Supplemental Mat -W1-|
| THX Sound System -H1- |Color Bar Test Pattern -P1-|Surround Sound Ck -X1-|
| Q-Sound -I1- | Super Laser -Q1-| Disc Type -Y1-|
===============================================================================
LaserDisc and Video Tape Record Editor
Stereo Type: (D)olby Stereo, (U)ltra*Stereo, (A)nalog Stereo,
(P)CM Digital Stereo, (M)ono, (E)lectronic Re-Mix -Z1-
Surround Mode: (D)olby Surround, (S)urround Sound, (N)one -A2-
Dolby Spectral Recording Format: (S)pectral, (D)igital, (N)one -B2-
Super Laser -C2-
CX Noise Reduction -D2-
Linear Dolby B Noise Reduction -E2-
Digital Sound Encoded -F2-
Hi-Fi Recording -G2-
Color Type: (C)olor, (B)lack/White, (M)ixed Color/B&W
(E)lectronically Colorized -H2-
Closed Captioned -I2-
Widescreen Format: (N)ormal Pan & Scan, (V)ideo or Made for TV,
(I)max Process, (T)otal Video Frame, (F)oreign
Standard, (E)uropean Standard, (A)merican
Standard, (S)canned PanaVision, (7)0mm Ratio,
(P)anaVision, (D)eluxe 70mm -J2-
Recording Format: (E)xtended Play - CAA, (P)lay Extended -CLV,
(S)tandard Play - CAV -K2-
Recording Format: (E)xtended Play - EP/SLP, (L)ong Play - LP
(S)tandard Play - SP -L2-
Library: (M)ovie, (N)on-Movie, (C)oming Soon, (T)o Be Viewed,
(A)vailable Now, (D)elete Record -M2-
=DiscTrak System====Version 1.703===Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group=
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 40
b. SCREEN TWO
Program Info | Disc Info
Release Year -N2- | Catalog: [...-U2-...] -V2- Sides
MPAA Raged -O2- | -W2- Chapters Disc Issued: -X2-
Run Time -P2- | -Y2- Episodes Purchased: [.-Z2-.]
Library -Q2- | Purchase Price $ -A3-
Category | Replication by
[........-R2-........] | [..............-B3-..............]
Production Studio | Distributed by
[.................-S2-.................] | [..............-C3-..............]
Releasing Studio | Video Released by
[.................-T2-.................] | [..............-D3-..............]
|
=DiscTrak System====Version 1.703===Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group=
c: SCREEN THREE
Additional Program Information
|
Cast | Production Credits
[.............-E3-.............] |
[.............-E3-.............] | Producer: [..........-F3-..........]
[.............-E3-.............] | Exec. Producer: [..........-G3-..........]
[.............-E3-.............] | Music by: [..........-H3-..........]
[.............-E3-.............] | Written by: [..........-I3-..........]
[.............-E3-.............] | Screenplay by: [..........-J3-..........]
[.............-E3-.............] | Director: [..........-K3-..........]
[.............-E3-.............] |
|
=DiscTrak System====Version 1.703===Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group=
d: SCREEN FOUR
Special Information
[...........................-L3-..........................]
=DiscTrak System====Version 1.703===Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group=
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 41
e: SCREEN FIVE
Special Feature Fields Generator
Short-Side CAV -M3-
Long Side Extended Play -N3-
Side Number -O3-
Magnetic Audio Master (i.e. 6 Track Magnetic) -P3-
Number of Tracks -Q3-
Cinema Digital Sound -R3-
Supplemental Section (Still Footage, etc) -S3-
Additional Footage -T3-
Theatrical Trailer -U3-
Jacket Type: (S)tandard, (G)ate Fold, (D)igi-Pak,
(T)ri-Fold, (B)ox Set -V3-
Disc Type: (L)aserDisc, (V)ideo Single, (8)" LaserDisc Single -W3-
Digital Video Transfer -X3-
Re-Recorded in a LucasFilm THX Theatre -Y3-
Mixed in Q-Sound -Z3-
Table of Contents -A4-
Subtitles: (J)apenese, (E)nglish, (F)rench, (S)panish, (I)talian,
(N)one -B4-
Surround Sound Audio Check -C4-
Color Bar Test Pattern -D4-
Multi-Audio Type: (D)igital, (A)nalog, (M)ix, (N)one -E4-
Bilingual -F4-
Minute Encoded Only (Rather than MM:SS) -G4-
Side Number: (#) or (A)ll -H4-
Manual Switch CX Noise Reduction -I4-
Side Number: (#) or (A)ll -J4-
Are Black/White portions really Brown tint? -K4-
=DiscTrak System====Version 1.703===Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group=
f: SCREEN SIX
Episode Information
Episode Title Air-Date Run
1) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
2) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
3) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
4) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
5) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
6) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
7) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
8) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
9) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
10) -L4- [.......................-M4-.......................] [.-N4-.] -O4-
=DiscTrak System====Version 1.703===Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group=
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 42
g: SCREEN SEVEN
Chapter Index Information
1) [...............................-P4-...............................]
2) [...............................-P4-...............................]
3) [...............................-P4-...............................]
4) [...............................-P4-...............................]
5) [...............................-P4-...............................]
6) [...............................-P4-...............................]
7) [...............................-P4-...............................]
8) [...............................-P4-...............................]
9) [...............................-P4-...............................]
10) [...............................-P4-...............................]
=DiscTrak System====Version 1.703===Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group=
2. Compact Disc & Cassette Tape / Record Album
a. SCREEN ONE
=============================Compact Disc Catalog==============================
Artist [....................................]
Title [.......................................................]
Label [............................] [............................] Distrib
===============================================================================
| Rec Seq / NR .... | Catalog [..............] | Tracks .... |
| Format .... | Category [...................] | Audio Run .... |
| | Special [...................] | Video Run .... |
| | Library .... Release Year .... | |
===============================================================================
Disc/Tape Record Editor
Recording Format Sequence: 1) Analog-Analog-Digital,
2) Analog-Digital-Digital,
3) Digital-Analog-Digital,
4) Digital-Digital-Digital -Q4-
Format: (A)lbum, (N)ormal, (M)etal, (C)hrome, (F)erriChrome -R4-
Noise Reduction Mode: (B) Type Dolby, (C) Type Dolby,
(d)bx NR System, (N)one -S4-
Special Recording Format: (C)D-3, (V)ideo 5", (G)raphic CD, (N)one -T4-
Recorded in Dolby HX Pro -U4-
Recorded in XDR (Extended Dynamic Range) -V4-
Recorded in Q-Sound -W4-
Recorded in Dolby Surround -X4-
=DiscTrak System====Version 1.703===Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group=
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 43
b: SCREEN TWO
=============================Compact Disc Catalog==============================
Artist [.................-Y4-...............]
Title [...........................-Z4-........................]
Label [...........-A5-.............] [.............-B5-...........] Distrib
===============================================================================
| Rec Seq / NR -C5- | Catalog [.....-E5-......] | Tracks -J5- |
| Format -E5- | Category [.......-F5-........] | Audio Run -K5- |
| | Special [.......-G5-........] | Video Run -L5- |
| | Library -H5- Release Year -I5- | |
===============================================================================
Title Listings Run Time
1) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
2) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
3) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
4) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
5) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
6) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
7) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
8) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
9) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
10) [..........................-M5-...........................] [-N5-]
=DiscTrak System====Version 1.703===Copyright (c)1992 Blam Entertainment Group=
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 44
XXI: Edit Disc Legend
NOTE 1: Fields -B1- through -Y1- are determined by the
questions answered on screens one and five. You
are not permitted to edit them directly so don't
get frustrated trying to get the cursor up there.
You just can't no matter how hard you try.
NOTE 2: All questions are single key driven. This includes
questions which prompt you for more information,
such as a side number. Specifically, fields -O3-,
-Q3-, -H4- and -J4-. These fields will accept
anything you stick in them. (Except, of course,
your finger.)
A1: LaserDisc/Video Tape Title:
You can edit the title on screen two only, even though
the field is present through all five. The program may
modify the title (ie, moving "The" from the beginning to
the end of the string and adding ", ") to maintain the
alphabetical order of the database. However, this
modification will be transparent as the title will be
reassembled correctly for any viewing and/or editing of
the title.
B1: Stereo Type Indicator
This indicator will display the audio type in real
english. No codes to figure out!
C1: Spectral Recording Indicators
D1: CX Noise Reduction / Linear Dolby B NR Indicator
In the LaserDisc mode, this will indicate if the
LaserDisc incorporates the CX Noise Reduction System.
This applies to Automatic switching and manual switching.
The Video Tape mode will indicate if the tape is using
the Dolby B NR system on Linear audio tracks.
E1: Digital Sound / Hi-Fi Indicator
The LaserDisc mode will indicate if the disc is encoded
with Digital Sound. The Video tape mode will indicate if
Hi-Fi audio is utilized.
F1: Surround Sound Mode Indicator
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 45
G1: Multi Audio Sound Indicator
This area will be used if Multi-Audio is present on the
disc.
H1: THX Sound System Indicator
If the motion picture audio was listed as being recorded
in a THX equipped theatre, this area will specify that.
I1: Q-Sound Indicator
Q-Sound use will display here if the audio was so
recorded.
J1: Color Status Indicator
K1: Closed Captioned / Subtitles Indicator
This area will specify if the video program is encoded
for the hearing impaired. If the program contains
Japanese or English subtitles, it will be indicated here
as well.
L1: Widescreen Format Indicator
Real words spelling out the widescreen ratio for the
program.
M1: Digital Video Transfer Indicator
If video transfers were performed within the digital
medium, it will be indicated here.
N1: Additional Footage Indicator
Programs which contain additional footage inserted within
the main program will be indicated here.
O1: Theatrical Trailer Indicator
Presence of theatrical trailers at the beginning or end
of the feature will be displayed in this area.
P1: Color Bar Test Pattern Indicator
STMPE Color Bars included with the program as a means of
testing television settings will be displayed here. (No,
not the color bars themselves, the presence of them.)
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 46
Q1: Super Laser Indicator
Super Laser, while not in mass production yet, will be
indicated here.
R1: Extended Play Indicator
Together with the next field, the recording format of the
LaserDisc or Video Tape will be displayed here.
S1: Standard Play Indicator
See description above.
T1: Special Jacket Indicator
Any special disc jacket use will be noted in this field.
U1: Minute Only Encoded Indicator
LaserDiscs which do not include MM:SS counters will be
manifest here.
V1: Table of Contents Indicator
This field will be used to notify the inclusion of Table
of Contents information recorded on LaserDiscs.
W1: Supplemental Material Indicator
Any material included with the program which isn't an
integral part of the main program will be indicated in
this area.
X1: Surround Sound Test Pattern Indicator
Presence of a Surround Sound Test Pattern will be
indicated here.
Y1: Disc Type Indicator
LaserDisc Size format will be displayed here.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 47
Z1: Select Stereo Type
Dolby Stereo - Default
Ultra*Stereo
Analog Stereo
PCM Digital Stereo
Mono
Electronically Rechanneled for Stereo
A2: Surround Sound Mode
This option will only appear if you select "Analog or
"Digital" in the Stereo type field. Default is "Dolby
Surround for Dolby programs and "None" for all other
stereo programs.
Dolby Surround
Surround Sound
None
B2: Select Spectral Recording Flag
This option will only appear if you select "Dolby Stereo"
in the Stereo type field.
Spectral Recording
Digital Spectral Recording
None - Default
C2: Super Laser Select - Default=No (LD Only)
Super Laser, although fairly new, is a neat enhancement
on the LaserDisc market as a whole. The big difference
is increased picture resolution. The drawback, no analog
audio. The bandwidth occupied by the analog audio tracks
has been taken over by the extended video information.
These discs are fully compatible with existing LaserDisc
players, provided they have Digital Sound capabilities.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 48
D2: Select CX Noise Reduction Flag - Default=Yes (LD Only)
Something worth noting here. Although nearly every title
uses CX noise Reduction, it should be said that titles
which use Multi-Audio Analog sound to record a different
program on the two audio channels of the Analog
soundtrack CANNOT use CX noise reduction. Selecting
Analog or Mixed Digital & Analog Multi-Audio in -E4- will
force this option off. Selecting Video Single in
question -W3- will also force this flag off. In
addition, this question will be skipped if Super Laser is
selected in field -C2-. If this is the case, CX will be
left off.
E2: Linear Dolby B Noise Reduction - Default=Yes (VCR Only)
Unless the tape is home made, the tape box will state in
no uncertain terms, that Dolby B is used. Most Hi-Fi
decks these days do not include Dolby B circuits because
everything pre-recorded for the last several years is
encoded with Hi-Fi audio.
F2: Select Digital Sound Flag - Default=Yes (LD Only)
This question will be forced to YES and will be skipped
completely if Super Laser is selected in field -C2-.
Otherwise, if the words Digital Sound, Digitally
Processed Audio or something to that effect is on the
jacket, or the little "Digital" light appears on the
front of the LaserDisc player, you've got your answer to
this question.
G2: Hi-Fi Recording Flag - Default=Yes (VCR Only)
Some VCR's do not include a Hi-Fi indicator. Instead,
like in the case of my SONY, the indicator used for MTS
Stereo doubles as the Hi-Fi indicator during tape play
back. As is the case with -E2-, the tape box will should
say something about Hi-Fi on it.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 49
H2: Select Color Type
Pick the correct option here. It's not too difficult
unless you're color blind. (No offense.) One word of
note, there is another color scheme here, Sepia Tone.
See -K4- for notes on it's presence.
Color - Default
Black & White
Mixed Color and Black & White
Electronically Colorized
I2: Select Closed Captioned Flag - Default=Yes
The inclusion of Closed Captions for the hearing impaired
viewer is a fairly common practice. If the title is
captioned, the familiar trademark used by the national
captioning institute, or some reference to "CC" will be
on the jacket or tape box.
J2: Select Widescreen (Letterbox) Type
This requires some explanation. The ratio which is
presented on widescreen releases may differ from picture
to picture, video company to video company and television
to television. We've tried to cover the most common
aspect ratio, but it's really impossible. The powers
that be in the Home Video market decide how true the
aspect ratios are when transferring to LaserDisc or Video
Tape.
The problem is that very few studios put the aspect ratio
used during the video transfer onto the jacket or box
which leave us to either guess or get out the trusty
ruler. The only advice I can give you is make your best
guess. Unless of course you're lucky enough to be
entering a disc from MCA / Universal Home Video,
FoxVideo, Touchstone Home Video, Walt Disney Home Video
or Hollywood Home Video which have been putting the
aspect ratio on their packaging or somewhere in the liner
notes.
Normal Pan & Scan (Full Frame) - Default
Video or Made for TV (Full Frame)
IMAX Process (Full Frame)
As the IMAX process is really just BIG, it
transfers full frame to the television medium.
I've included this tag for the few titles which
boast the use of the IMAX process.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 50
Total Video Frame Ratio (1.33:1)
This was added with the release of "Dick Tracy"
from Touchstone Home Video. On the back of the
jacket, it states "Dick Tracy is presented in the
aspect ratio in which the movie was originally
filmed." This raises some speculation on the part
of Widescreen buffs. There IS a difference between
the way the movie was "filmed" and how the director
intended it to be "seen" in the theatre. Use this
option when there is more vertical information in
the video frame than there was on the motion
picture screen.
Foreign Standard Ratio (1.66:1)
"The Color Purple" and "Empire of the Sun" from
Warner Home Video have such a minor amount of
matting it is almost a waste of code to track for
it. But here it is anyway.
European Standard Ratio (1.75:1)
The three James Bond releases from Criterion
Collection state the ratio as true 1.75:1. So,
here we have the mark for this ratio.
American Standard Ratio (1.85:1)
Sometimes referred to as MATTED. "Batman" from
Warner Home Video is a good example of this format.
Scanned PanaVision (1.85:1)
This option was added as a result of the release of
"Ghostbusters II" from RCA/Columbia Pictures Home
Video. The theatrical release was Full PanaVision,
but they opted for an "American Standard Ratio" and
Pan & Scan mix. Go figure.
70mm Standard Ratio (2.1:1)
Several widescreen titles from MCA/Universal Home
Video use this ratio. It is a "happy medium" to
the Pan & Scan lovers (Yuck) and the Widescreen
Lovers. Not as tight as the PanaVision ratio, but
not Pan & Scan either. Case in point, "Bird on a
Wire" and "The Hard Way". Valid uses could include
pictures actually shot in 70mm. These titles would
include "My Fair Lady" and "The Sound of Music."
PanaVision Ratio (2.35:1)
"Terminator 2: Judgment Day". Arnold flexes his
muscles in both CAV and CLV widescreen formats of
this picture. Bruce Willis has blown up a building
and even a 747 in this format as well. This format
looks as though the TV screen has been divided into
thirds, with the picture in the center 1/3.
Deluxe 70mm Ratio (2.7:1)
Ever seen "Ben Hur" on LaserDisc in Widescreen.
End of discussion.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 51
K2: Select Recording Format - LaserDisc
This references the longest portion of the disc. If side
one is CAA and side 2 is CAV, enter "E" for CAA. Later
in fields -M3- through -N3- on screen five, we will
compensate for any one side being a little different.
Standard Play - CAV
This was THE format for LaserDisc at it's
introduction in 1978. In fact ALL discs came in
CAV. "The Hindenburg", and "JAWS", for example
were on 5 sides. "The Blues Brothers" took up an
incredible 6 sides. Today CAV is used mostly on
animated titles or on special releases. Voyager
Press and it's CRITERION COLLECTION use this format
frequently. Whenever a title is released in CAV,
studios may add in special extras like deleted
footage (ie, "Ghostbusters") and even multi audio
tracks, although these bonus items are not limited
to the CAV format.
Extended Play - CAA - Default
Just about everyone uses this form of Extended Play
encoding. Under a light, there is a very
distinctive pattern to the recorded information. A
side by side comparison with an old Extended Play
DiscoVision or a current Extended Play disc from 3M
Manufacturing is the best illustration of the
differences.
Play Extended - CLV
This applies to all Extended Play discs made by 3M
Manufacturing and really old Extended Play discs
from DiscoVision and Pioneer Video. By looking at
the disc under a good light, you will see a kind of
smear pattern making up the recorded information.
This is your indication of CLV. Compare against a
current disc, (anything made since late 1983 by
anyone other than 3M) and you'll see a difference.
This is really called Extended Play, but I am using
that definition already. The light bar menus don't
like the same thing more than once.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 52
L2: Select Recording Format - Video Tape
Really designed after the SONY line of VHS Recorders,
these speeds can be called something different on almost
every line of VCR. Use your best judgement if you have
a BETA or other format that doesn't match these speeds.
The speeds themselves are pretty self explanatory.
Standard Play (2 hr Mode) - Default
Long Play (4 hr Mode)
Extended Play (6 hr Mode)
M2: Select Library Location
The library location of the specific title is noted here.
A total of five valid locations are possible.
Movie
Pretty self explanatory really. Is it a movie, or
isn't it?
Non-Movie
In my mind, anything that isn't a movie is marked
here. Music video's, concerts, stand-up comedy
shows and "Star Trek" episodes fit into this
category.
Coming Soon
I use this for discs and tapes I know I want, but
aren't yet available. A kind of "wish list" if you
will.
To Be Viewed
This is a disc or tape that I have, but not yet had
opportunity to view. Once viewed, I put it into
the proper category.
Available Now - Default
This is a disc or tape that used to be "Coming
Soon" but has been released and I haven't had a
chance to pick it up yet. Hard to find, but
available, discs and tapes are also lumped under
this flag.
Delete Record
This will mark the active record and the associated
slave records (if any) for deletion.
**** WARNING! ****
THIS WILL DELETE THE DISC and/or TAPE from the
database upon QUITTING the program, when you select
"F" for a FILE SORT from the UTILITY MENU, or "A"
for ARCHIVE from the UTILITY MENU. You can change
this flag back to any other option by simply
re-editing the record.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 53
N2: Release Year - Default=Current Year
The year the movie, television show, or what ever, was
first released to the public.
O2: MPAA Rated
You can actually put anything here you want. The normal
choices are G, PG, PG-13, R, X, NC-17, Family, Adult
Action, etc. However, you aren't specifically limited to
these choices. There are only 5 characters allowed in
this field, so if you live in Canada, which doesn't use
the MPAA rating system, abbreviate.
P2: Run Time
The run time of the program in minutes, up to 999.
Q2: Library Indicator
The answer to -M2- above, in english terms.
R2: Category
There are 20 characters to say anything you want at all.
I use this to explain what type of picture the movie is.
S2: Production Studio
40 characters here. I use it for movies like "Can't Buy
Me Love" from Touchstone Home Video. It was an "Apollo
Pictures" movie, but was released by "Touchstone
Pictures". It isn't unusual for -S2- and -T2- to be the
same.
T2: Releasing Studio
40 characters here too. See -S2- for the reasons as to
why this is here.
U2: Catalog Number.
This is important. I put the actual disc/tape number
here. For example, "Soapdish" from Paramount Home Video
is "LV32445-WS". The Slave databases use this field for
control purposes. After you enter the information on
screen two, the program will verify that you haven't
duplicated the number anywhere else, in any mode.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 54
V2: LaserDisc Mode: Sides
Enter the number of programmed sides. I don't include a
blank side on a 3 sided disc in this figure. This number
will default to 2 in this mode.
Video Tape Mode: Program #
This is the relative location on the tape. If you record
several programs onto one tape, put each program under a
separate record and separate them by using this as an
identifier. The second program on a tape would have a 2
here. If there is only one program, put a 1 here.
(Actually, the "1" will default)
W2: LaserDisc Mode: Chapters
The number of chapter indexes on the disc, provided there
are any. Chapter stops are becoming more popular lately
and some companies actually put the chapter stops on the
jacket. Others put a little blurb about "This disc
contains chapter stops for your viewing enjoyment." It's
up to you to figure out how many there are. On the other
hand, that same company often says "42 Chapters" but
there are really 44. You've really got to care if you
want this field to be accurate.
Video Tape Mode: Counter Position
Enter the starting counter number for the specific title.
Again, if this is the second program on a tape and it
begins at counter 0466, enter "0466" here. If your VCR
uses a real time counter rather than a numerical one,
enter "1:42" here, indicating the specified program
begins 1 hour and 42 minutes into the tape.
X2: Disc/Tape Issued
The year the LaserDisc or Video Tape was released to the
public should go here. When adding a record, this will
be the current year until July 1, when it steps to the
next year. Remember to change it back if you're adding
a disc or tape you bought today.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 55
Y2: Episodes
With the ever increasing number of Episodic collections
available on Video from either Home Video companies or
Home Taping, the number of episodes (originally 4)
tracked needed to be increased. Rather than fix a hard
limit on the number of episodes, this field has been
added. 99 Episodes per LaserDisc/Video Tape record are
possible. The data for these episodes are entered in
fields -L4-, -M4-, -N4- and -O4-.
Z2: Purchase Date - Default Today's Date
Date you purchased or recorded the disc/tape. Yes I
realize you can't record onto a disc.
A3: Purchase Price
What you paid for the disc/tape (Blank or Pre-recorded).
I put the retail cost of the disc/tape, regardless of
what I paid personally. You can leave this blank if you
are easily disgusted by how much money you dump into the
Home Video addiction.
B3: Replication by
For the LaserDisc mode, this is the name of the pressing
facility that actually stamped the disc. This may be
impossible to find out on most discs.
Those pressed by Pioneer Video Manufacturing usually say
so on the jacket. Most discs made by Technidisc have
serial numbers just outside the center label. Discs from
3M Manufacturing have got "Manufactured by 3M" just
outside the label area. Digital Audio Disc Corporation
(DADC - Sony) actually have a bar code on the inner band
of the disc. Take a look at "Three Men and A Little
Lady" from Touchstone Home Video to see what I mean.
Discs pressed by any company in Japan other than DADC are
nearly impossible to distinguish from one another.
Anything distributed by Image Entertainment in the US and
Canada could have been produced by any of a number of
facilities anywhere in the world. This makes it
difficult to track the origin of the disc.
For the Video Tape Mode, I usually put the brand of video
tape the movie is made on. Pre-recorded tapes don't
always say, but sometimes we get lucky. If you don't
know, guess or leave it blank.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 56
C3: Distributed by
Image Entertainment Inc. discs used to be easy to pick
out. All their jackets were the same. However, they
have changed to full jacket art, but that Image logo is
still in the lower corner. Not a problem. As for the
rest of the world, you're on you're own. If you care to
read all the fine print on the jacket, you may get lucky.
Otherwise, you're guess is as good as mine. As for
tapes, it usually says who distributed the thing
somewhere on the jacket.
D3: Video Released by
This is easy. What's the Video label on the jacket?
E3: Cast
You've got eight fields, 32 characters long each to list
the major cast members. If you haven't got eight, use
the fields for the lessor cast, or leave them blank.
F3: Producer
Look in the credits for this, provided you care. 29
characters maximum.
G3: Executive Producer
Where would modern movie making be without them. Steven
Spielberg fills this field quite nicely. Again, there
are 29 characters maximum.
H3: Music by
Who wrote the musical score? Printed credits tell us
this sometimes. Sometimes they don't. Like everything
else, you have to care. 29 characters maximum.
I3: Written by
Who wrote the original story? They may tell you this,
and then again, they may not. If someone wrote the
screenplay based on someone else's novel, put the
novelist here. 29 characters maximum.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 57
J3: Screenplay by
Someone had to write the actual script the actors used.
Well sometimes it seems more like a free-for-all. This
again may be difficult to find. Sometimes, the Story
writer has written everything. Such a case would be
Written and Directed by Steven Spielberg. You gotta give
it to the guy, he does everything but act. You've got 29
characters here to play with.
K3: Director
I have yet to run across a movie that wasn't directed,
although there are a few that have seemed that way. Once
again only 29 characters to fill in the blank.
L3: Special Features
There are 70 characters to say anything you want about
the title. Stuff like "James Bond #16" on "License to
Kill" goes well here. On the other hand, nothing goes
here just as nicely.
M3: Short Side CAV - Default="No"
This question is for the LaserDisc mode only. Are sides
1 & 2 in Extended Play and side 3 in Standard Play?
You'll only see this question if you specified something
other than Standard Play - CAV back in field -K2-.
N3: Long Side Extended Play - Default="No"
This question is for the LaserDisc mode only. This is
basically the opposite of -M3-. You'll only be asked
this question if you selected Standard Play - CAV back in
field -K2-.
O3: Side Number - LaserDisc only
You'll only get this question if you answered "Yes" to
either -M3- or -N3-, depending on which one you were
asked. Enter the side which is recorded different.
There are a couple of titles roaming around the world
which are not going to work here. Sides 1 and 3 are
Extended play, sides 2 and 4 are Standard Play. I'm at
a loss as to how to figure this one. Best guesses
anyone? This defaults to the total number of sides
entered in -V2-.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 58
P3: Magnetic Audio Master - Default="No"
Guess work at best, unless you know for a fact that the
program audio was mastered from a Magnetic Source. The
Criterion Collection for LaserDiscs sometimes put's
little blurbs about Magnetic Masters in their liner
notes, and most of their releases utilize magnetic
masters.
Q3: Number of Tracks
You'll only get this field if you answer "Yes" to -P3-.
and something other than "Mono" way back in -Z1-. This
field defaults to 6 for valid Stereo programs. If you
specified "Mono" in -Z1-, the question will be skipped,
inserting 1 into the field.
R3: Cinema Digital Sound - Default="No"
This sound format is a new way of putting audio on movie
film. It is different than Dolby Labs Spectral Digital.
It is not a replacement for Dolby Stereo, or any other
stereo program. If you look at the view in the LaserDisc
mode, you'll see most audio is 2-Track Optical Stereo.
CDS replaces optical analog sound.
S3: Supplemental Section - Default="No"
If you've heard of or seen the 50th anniversary edition
of the Wizard of Oz from MGM/UA Home Video or almost any
title from The Criterion Collection you know the meaning
of supplemental material.
T3: Additional Footage - Default="No"
From time to time, the home video version of a title gets
the luxury of new footage being added that wasn't in the
theatrical release for some reason or another. More
often than not, the new footage doesn't add anything but
running time to the film, but that's not the issue.
Footage added at the end of the program should not be
considered additional footage. If this is the case, as
with "The War of the Roses", included that footage as
part of the supplemental material.
U3: Theatrical Trailer - Default="No"
It really doesn't matter if the trailer is for the same
program as the main feature. I kinda lump all trailers
under this area.
9DiscTrak System Documentation Page 59
V3: Special Jacket
This question applies to the LaserDisc mode only. There
are many types of disc packaging on the market today.
Originally this was only a tag for Gate Fold jackets, but
we have expanded this to cover for Box Sets, Tri-Fold
Jackets and other packaging variants simply because of
the number of deluxe issues which are popping up all the
time.
Standard Jacket - Default
The old tried and true blue jacket. Sometimes
really detailed information crammed onto just the
front and back cover. Inside these jackets are
stuffed anywhere from one to three discs. How many
old double disc record albums were issued in this
type of jacket anyway?
Gate-Fold Jacket
In my opinion, all double disc titles should be
packaged in Gate-Fold Jackets. Granted they very
rarely do anything interesting with the additional
panel room.
Digi-Pak
Based on economy Compact Disc packaging, these are
12 1/2" square jackets with a hard piece of plastic
in the middle, holding onto the center of a
LaserDisc just like a CD case holds onto a Compact
Disc. This packaging option can be either single
or double disc.
Tri-Fold Jacket
An official name for this jacket format is unknown.
Simply put, this jacket is a double Gate Fold.
When fully opened, it is three jackets in one. One
disc is housed in each end as well as a single disc
in the center. Several old LP's used this style of
jacket. Use of this style is rare, but worth
tracking.
Box Set
These box sets will hold anywhere from 2 to 10
discs. Although there is no limit as to how may
discs can be stuffed into a box, 10 is the biggest
in my personal library.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 60
W3: Disc Type Select
This question applies to the LaserDisc mode only. There
are three main types of LaserDiscs out on the market.
Once upon a time, way back in version 1.21 and before any
formal documentation was available for this program, this
was a unique field to track for disc size. We've added
this back in, not because of an overwhelming abundance of
multiple size discs, but because of consist use of all
LaserDisc formats.
LaserDisc - Default
This includes ALL 12" Laser Optical Video Discs, no
matter what the jackets may say.
Video Single (CD-Video)
Gold (but sometimes the standard CD Silver) 5 inch
discs which have up to 5 minutes of full motion
video on them as well as up to 20 minutes of CD
compatible audio. Hard to find, but still
available. A CDV-5 compatible LaserDisc player is
required to play the video portion of these discs.
Infinitely popular in England and Japan where they
are called "Video Singles". In the US, they are
used mostly for special applications.
8" LaserDisc Single
Bunches and bunches of these fully LaserDisc
compatible discs are available. Most are still in
print in the US. They are able to hold up to 20
minutes of program material in Extended Play, 14
minutes in Standard Play, and may be either double
or single sided. Some players may require an
adapter when playing single sided discs as they are
half as thick as regular LaserDiscs.
X3: Digital Video Transfer - Default="No"
Most MGM/UA Home Video titles, some Nelson Entertainment
and Disney titles and all Criterion titles use a Sony D-1
Master for their video transfers. If it is applicable,
it should say so clearly on the jacket. It may be hidden
somewhere in the liner notes included with the disc.
However, it may not say anything at all. "The
Terminator" from Hemdale Video is a prime example of not
giving the public all the information.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 61
Y3: Recorded in a LucasFilm THX Sound System Equipped Theatre
- Default="No"
Several films have specifically referenced this Theatre
Sound System in their closing credits. I figured what
the heck and added it.
Z3: Mixed in Q-Sound - Default="No"
This is another sound matrix enhancement which has popped
up. It does not require anything to decode the
information, just a stereo system. Not as popular as
THX, but still worth taking note of.
A4: Table of Contents - Default="No"
This question is for the LaserDisc mode only. Compact
Discs include a total number of tracks and running time.
LaserDiscs can also contain this information, but finding
it may be tricky. The only way to tell is with a player
that can read the TOC. Most players built since 1988 can
read this information. This question is not asked if the
disc does not contain chapter stops as indicated by
question -W2-, or if it was issued before 1988 as entered
in -X2-.
B4: Subtitles
Simple enough. I included this because of large import
collections and foreign films available on video. This
question will only appear if you selected Closed
Captioned = "No" back at question -I2-.
Japanese
English
French
Spanish
Italian
None - Default
C4: Surround Sound Audio Check - Default="No"
Some video programs have included a Surround Sound Test
Pattern at the end of the program. For this reason, we
ask this question. You really have to care, but here it
is. This question is only valid in the LaserDisc and
Video Tape modes and if you select any Surround Type.
Note: Surround Sound may be selected automatically.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 62
D4: Color Bar Test Pattern - Default="No"
For those cute little multicolored bars which seem to
haunt us at every turn. Well here's just what you've
been looking for. This is only valid in the LaserDisc
and Video Tape modes, simply because you can't see color
bars on a CD or Tape. Come on, really.
E4: Select Multi-Audio Type
This question is for the LaserDisc mode only. Multi-
Audio refers to an audio program which is completely
different from the other audio program. Stereo programs
by themselves are not considered Multi-Audio.
Analog only
Most discs released in the US use this option when
they use Multi Audio. Really handy on special
editions like "War of the Roses" from FoxVideo.
Danny DeVito narrates the picture on Track 1/L and
the regular audio program is on Track 2/R. The
only drawback to this is if you don't have a
digital player, you don't get stereo. In addition,
CX is not possible on Multi-Audio Analog discs.
The CX flag from question -D2- will be forced off
if this option is selected. This option will not
be displayed if the Super Laser flag is set to YES
in field -C2-, or if Video Single is selected in
field -W3-.
Mix (Both Digital & Analog)
This option is only valid if Digital sound back in
-F2-, the Super Laser option was not selected in
field -C2- or Video Single was selected in -W3-.
Big advantage here is 4 separate audio programs.
The only place I've seen this so far is The
Criterion Collection of "Silverado". Not all
players can select Left over Right audio in the
digital tracks, so use of this option is kept to a
minimum. As with the previous option, CX will be
forced off in field -D2- should this option be
selected.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 63
Digital only
This option is only valid if you select Digital
sound back in -F2- and is the only option other
than NONE if Super Laser was selected in -C2- or if
Video Single was selected in -W3-. First and
second generation players from Pioneer cannot
select left over right in the digital mode. As a
result, this option is rare.
None - Default
No special multi-audio recording.
F4: Bilingual - Default="No"
This question is for the LaserDisc mode only. This only
appears with an answer other than "NONE" in -E4-. It's
easy to determine if channel 1 is Japanese, French or
anything that isn't the same language as channel 2.
G4: Minute Encode Only - Default="No"
This question is for the LaserDisc mode only. If you put
an old Extended Play disc into a new player and press the
search button, the best search you can do is by minute
only. If that's the case, and you really care, answer
"Yes". This question will only appear if the disc was
issued before 1986 as referenced in field -X2-.
H4: Side Number
This question is for the LaserDisc mode only. You'll
only see this if you answered "Yes" to -G4-. I added
this section because of repressings. My copy of "Star
Trek II: The Wrath of Khan" from Paramount Home Video
uses the old minute only master on side 1 but has full
minutes and seconds on side 2. Whoda thought, eh?
A=All Sides - Default
I4: Manual CX Switching - Default="No"
This question is for the LaserDisc mode only. In some
very old discs, before they had automatic CX Noise
Reduction switching, you used to have to push the CX
button manually. If this is the case, answer "Yes".
This question will only appear if the disc was issued
before 1986 as referenced by field -X2- and if the disc
is encoded with CX Noise reduction indicated by -D2-.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 64
J4: Side Number
This question is for the LaserDisc mode only. This will
only pop up if you answered "Yes" to question -I4-.
Along with the Minute Encoded section, I incorporated
this because of repressings. Again using "Star Trek II"
for an example, the side 1 that was minute only encoded
also forced me to turn on the CX manually. On side 2,
the disc does it automatically. In addition, the copy of
"48 hrs.", also from Paramount, must have the CX manually
enabled on both sides.
A=All Sides - Default
K4: Brown Tint - Default="No"
This question will only pop up if you selected Black &
White or Mixed Color / Black & White way back in field
-H2-. It's pretty self explanatory. But to get a better
idea of what I'm talking about, put on the 50th
Anniversary Edition of "The Wizard of Oz". You'll see
that the beginning and the very end are not truly Black
& White. They are in "Sepia Tone", which is how they
appeared in the original theatrical release.
L4: Episode Number
There are a maximum of 99 entries for episode numbers.
Fill in the first 10 entries, (One Episode Number, Title,
Air-Date and Run Time per line), the next ten entries
will flip up and allow you to enter Episode entries 11
through 20. This will continue up through episode 99.
The number of episodes you are allowed to enter is
directly controlled by the number of episodes specified
in field -Y2-. There are 5 spaces maximum per episode
number.
M4: Episode Title
See -L4- for a detailed description of how this field
works. Enter the episode title here. It's not tough to
figure out. There is a maximum of 50 characters, per
entry for this field.
N4: Episode Air Date
See -L4- for a full explanation of how this field is
supposed to work. Enough room to put the original air-
date for "Star Trek" episodes as MM/DD/YY.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 65
O4: Episode Run Time
See -L4- for a functional description of how this field
is controlled. The data to put in this field is the run
time for the specified episode. If you've got "Police
Squad! Help Wanted" from Paramount Home Video you'll see
3 episodes, totaling 75 minutes. I split up the run time
into each episode here, entering 25 minutes per title.
The 75 minute figure still goes in the -P2- field.
P4: Chapter Index Information
There are a maximum of 999 entries for chapter indexes.
Once you fill up the first 10 entries, (One chapter index
per line), the next ten entries will flip up and allow
you to enter chapters 11 through 20. This will continue
up through chapter 999. The number of chapter indexes
you are allowed to enter is directly controlled by the
number of chapters specified in field -W2-. There are 70
spaces maximum per line.
Q4: Recording Format Sequence
This applies only to Compact Discs. This information is
still missing from some of today's releases. However,
those records companies who care are to be congratulated.
If it isn't listed anywhere on the disc, jewel box liner
notes or on the shipping sleeve, you best guess is the
most accurate answer.
1) Analog-Analog-Digital (AAD) - Default
2) Analog-Digital-Digital (ADD)
3) Digital-Analog-Digital (DAD)
I have to laugh. I've only seen a few discs using
this sequence. It's so rare, most record labels
don't even include this write up in their liner
notes. Let me ask you. Doesn't using an Analog
recorder for subsequent mixing of the music defeat
the purpose of recording it digitally? Maybe it's
just me.
4) Digital-Digital-Digital (DDD)
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 66
R4: Format
Cassette Tape / Record Album mode only. At this time the
program does not support the existence of DAT (Digital
Audio Tape) or DCC (Digital Compact Cassette). If either
of these formats, or any other new ones which pop up,
should become really popular, I will update the program
to accommodate the new formats.
Album
This flag is the only distinction between a Record
album (Think hard, it has been a while since we've
see these.) and a Cassette tape.
Normal Tape (Type I) - Default
Chrome Tape (Type II)
FerriChrome Tape (Type III)
Metal Tape (Type IV)
S4: Noise Reduction Format
Specific to Cassette Tapes Only
B Type Dolby
C Type Dolby
S Type Dolby
The new Dolby Labs Noise Reduction routine which
hasn't been released yet. Bet you thought I'd lost
all my marbles didn't you.
dbx NR System
None - Default
T4: Special Recording Format
Only in Compact Disc Mode
3" CD
Those little discs that lived only a short while
and will never be seen again, unless you're witness
to a Coca-Cola promotion.
Video 5"
Gold (but sometimes the standard CD Silver) 5 inch
discs which have up to 5 minutes of full motion
video on them as well as up to 20 minutes of CD
compatible audio. Hard to find, but still
available. A CDV-5 compatible LaserDisc player is
required to play the video portion of these discs.
Infinitely popular in England and Japan where they
are called "Video Singles". In the US, they are
used mostly for special applications.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 67
Graphics CD
Sometimes the record company will tell you the disc
has been encoded with CD+Graphics, and then again,
sometimes they encode the disc with CD+Graphics and
then forget to tell you. Maybe they forgot. I
doubt it.
Warner Bros., at one point, went off the beaten
path to inform everyone about CD+Graphics. In a
nut shell, CD+Graphics are a series of still photos
or other non-moving picture that can be displayed
on your television during playback of the CD. I
have yet to see these in action, but they don't
affect the sound of your CD in any way. Oh, you
have to have a CD+Graphics or CD-I (Compact Disc
Interactive) player to get at these little
pictures.
U4: Recorded in Dolby HX Pro - Default "No"
Cassette Tape / Record Album Mode Only. This isn't a
Noise Reduction sequence as I originally thought. In all
honesty, I don't know what it does, but I've seen tapes
with both HX Pro and Dolby B NR. You will not be asked
this question if you selected ALBUM back in question
-R4-.
V4: Recorded in XDR - Default "No"
Cassette Tape / Record Album Mode Only. This is a
Dynamic Range Extender utilized by Capitol Records and
its associated labels. You will not be asked this
question if you selected ALBUM back in question -R4-.
W4: Recorded in Q-Sound - Default "No"
A recording process which will give spacious, 3-D sound
on normal Stereo equipment. No special decoding into
surround is necessary. Now isn't that special.
X4: Recorded in Dolby Surround
Dolby Surround has been around on Compact Discs for years
and I've decided to start tracking for it. It is
included in the Album/Tape mode as well, although I
haven't actually seen any tapes use it yet.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 68
Y4: Artist
Pretty self explanatory. In addition, I put the name of
the title here if it happens to be a soundtrack from a
movie or TV Show.
Z4: Title
Another easy one. What's the name of the album?
A5: Label
Look at the disc or tape. There is usually fairly large
lettering saying things like "Arista", "RCA", "Sire",
"Capitol", etc. There's your answer.
B5: Distributor
This one's not so easy. If you read the fine print on
the back of the jewel box, it may say something about
"Distributed by". Then again, it may not. If you really
care, you can try to figure it out.
C5: Recording Format / Noise Reduction
There are no right answers, just real english versions of
the answer you gave. This isn't a test.
Compact Discs
The answer to the question -Q4-.
Cassette Tape / Record Album
The answer to question -R4-.
D5: Format
Again this isn't a test. No wrong answers, unless you're
just flat wrong. If you said it's a tape and it's really
an album, you're gonna get the wrong answer.
Compact Disc
The answer to questions -T4-, -W4-, -X4-.
Cassette Tape / Record Album
The answer to questions -S4-, -U4-, -V4-, -W4- and
-X4-.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 69
E5: Catalog Number
I usually put in the number on the edge of the jewel box,
record sleeve or cassette box in this field. This number
is used the same way as -U2- back in the LaserDisc mode
and will be verified before the record is fully stored
into the database.
F5: Category
20 characters to specify what kind of music is contained
on the disc or tape.
G5: Special
20 more characters to say anything you want. I use it
for things like Double Disc or Double Tape Set.
H5: Library - Default="M"
This field is much like Library in LaserDisc and Video
Tape modes. Any answer will be converted to upper case,
provided you answer with an alphabetic character.
D=Delete
This will mark the active record and the associated
slave records (if any) for deletion.
**** WARNING! ****
THIS WILL DELETE THE DISC and/or TAPE from the
database upon QUITTING the program, when you select
"F" for a FILE SORT from the UTILITY MENU, or "A"
for ARCHIVE from the UTILITY MENU. You can change
this flag back to any other option by simply
re-editing the record.
Anything else in this field is allowed.
I5: Release Year - Default=Current Year
What year did the Compact Disc, Album or Cassette
originally come out. Reissues of the Beach Boys albums
on CD during 1990 and 1991 listed the dates as 1990 and
1991, however to get the catalog to list them properly,
put in the date that the original albums were released.
J5: Tracks
Number of tracks on the Compact Disc, Album or Cassette.
I don't track for specific sides when it comes to albums
and tapes, or specific discs with multi disc sets. Just
lump everything together.
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 70
K5: Audio Run
When you load up a Compact Disc, your player should give
you a total run time for the disc. Enter it as MM.SS.
You may have no idea of how long the Tapes or Albums run,
unless you time them or it's written down somewhere.
L5: Video Run
For use exclusively with CD-Video 5" discs. Enter it as
M.SS. This field will not appear unless Video 5" was
selected in question -T4-.
M5: Title Listings
There are a maximum of 999 entries for song titles. Once
you fill up the 10 titles on page 1, (One song per line),
the next page will flip up and allow you to enter songs
11 through 20. This will continue up through song 999.
The number of songs you are allowed to enter is directly
controlled by the number of tracks you entered in -J5-.
There are 60 spaces maximum per line.
When you edit the selected record, you will be given no
selections until -J5- has been entered and read. When
you're ready to enter the selection titles, the correct
number of entries will appear.
N5: Song Run Times
There are also 999 of these fields to fill out. They are
paged along with the titles and are subject to the same
controls as the titles.
XXII: ASSOCIATION OF SHAREWARE PROFESSIONALS
This program is produced by a member of the Association of
Shareware Professionals (ASP). ASP wants to make sure that
the shareware principle works for you. If you are unable to
resolve a shareware-related problem with an ASP member by
contacting the member directly, ASP may be able to help. The
ASP Ombudsman can help you resolve a dispute or problem with
an ASP member, but does not provide technical support for
members' products. Please write to the ASP Ombudsman at 545
Grover Road, Muskegon, MI 49442-9427 or send a Compuserve
message via CompuServe Mail to ASP Ombudsman 70007,3536
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 71
XXIII: LEGAL TIDBITS
"CDS" and "Cinema Digital Sound" are trademarks of Eastman
Kodak
"The Criterion Collection" is a trademark of Voyager Press
"CX" is a registered Trademark of CBS, INC.
"dbx" is a registered trademark of dbx Associates
"DeskJet 500" is a Trademark of Hewlett Packard Company
"Dolby", "Dolby B", "Dolby C", Dolby S", "Dolby HX PRO",
"Dolby Surround", "Dolby Spectral Recording" and "Dolby
Spectral Recording Digital" are registered trademarks of Dolby
Laboratories
"LDC America" and "Pioneer LDC America" are TradeMarks of
Pioneer Electronics
"MCA DiscoVision" is a copyright of MCA/Universal Home Video
"PKZIP" is a registered Trademark and Patent of PKWare Inc.
"ARJ" is a copyright of Robert K. Jung
"LHA" is a copyright of Haruyasu Yoshizaki
"Q-Sound" is a registered trademark of Q-Sound, INC.
"Star Trek" is a registered trademark and copyright of
Paramount Pictures Corporation
"THX" and "LucasFilm THX" are registered trademarks of
LucasArts Entertainment, Inc.
"Ultra*Stereo" is a registered trademark of Ultra*Stereo Labs
"Windows" and "Microsoft Windows" are registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation
"XDR" is a registered trademark of Capitol Records Industries
"IMAX" is a registered trademark of IMAX Corporation
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 72
48 hrs. - Copyright (c)1983 Paramount Home Video
Batman - Copyright (c)1989 Warner Home Video
Ben Hur - Copyright (c)1988 MGM/UA Home Video
Bird on a Wire - Copyright (c)1990 MCA/Universal Home Video
The Blues Brothers - Copyright (c)1990 MCA/Universal Home
Video
Can't Buy Me Love - Copyright (c)1988 Touchstone Home Video
The Color Purple - Copyright (c)1986 Warner Home Video
Dick Tracy - Copyright (c)1990 Touchstone Pictures
Empire of the Sun - Copyright (c)1988 Warner Home Video
Ghostbusters - Copyright (c)1989 The Criterion Collection /
RCA Columbia Home Video
Ghostbusters II - Copyright (c)1990 RCA/Columbia Pictures Home
Video
The Hard Way - Copyright (c)1991 MCA/Universal Home Video
The Hindenburg - Copyright (c)1990 MCA/Universal Home Video
The Hunt for Red October - Copyright (c)1991 Paramount Home
Video
Jaws - Copyright (c)1983 MCA/Universal Home Video
License to Kill - Copyright (c)1990 CBS/Fox Home Video
My Fair Lady - Copyright (c)1990 CBS/Fox Video
Police Squad! Help Wanted - Copyright (c)1986 Paramount Home
Video
Soapdish - Copyright (c)1991 Paramount Home Video
Silverado - Copyright (c)1991 The Criterion Collection
The Sound of Music - Copyright (c)1989 CBS/Fox Video
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan - Copyright (c)1983 Paramount
Home Video
DiscTrak System Documentation Page 73
The Terminator - Copyright (c)1991 Hemdale Video
Terminator 2: Judgment Day - Copyright (c)1991 Carolco Home
Video
Three Man and a Little Lady - Copyright (c)1991 Touchstone
Home Video
War of the Roses - Copyright (c)1991 FoxVideo
The Wizard of Oz - Copyright (c)1989 MGM/UA Home Video
