Contents
 FoneCost For Windows

Thank you for taking time to evaluate FoneCost. You are entitled to use it for 30 days, after which, to continue using it you must register.

FONECOST for Windows is a small utility for pricing telephone calls, and can show you how much you are spending. It will allow you to save the call information for later use and additionally in a format for import within a spreadsheet or database. One of its strong points is the ability to use the timer whenever you want within Windows and works well with modems.

Shareware	The Shareware concept and FoneCost.

Register	How to register FoneCost.

Copyright	Show the legal information

Main Display	How to use FONECOST

Menu Commands	Details about the Menu Commands

Toolbar	Toolbar details

Quick Choice	Details of the QuickChoice facility

Hot-Keys	Keyboard Shortcuts

Timer Details	Details of the Timer function

Set Options...	Details of the Set Options Dialog

FoneData	Brief details of FoneData.

Upgrade Policy	Details of future upgrade policy

CAVEAT	Details ABOUT  this version

Error Messages	Details about Error Messages

CONTACT	Details about us.

Requirements	Minimum Requirements to run.

Version Details	Lists changes made to the latest version.


Caveat
FONECOST CAVEAT

There are NO undocumented calls used and all disk operations are operated by high-level commands. As far as I can tell, all system resources are returned after the running of the program, however the Modem DCD work is performed by a non-windows method and is not supported by Microsoft so unfortunately you may find an incompatibilty as listed below.

The 'Modem DCD' detection is performed by 'peeking' some specified memory location as set by DOS and as such whilst it works in Windows 3.1, I suspect that the security implications within Windows NT are such that it wont work. Short of re-writing the comms device driver there appears to be no way within windows of snooping on other programs comms sessions.

This will only work for True Windows Comms Programs, if you run a DOS comms package such as 'Telix' etc. as a Window a conflict occurs. Please disable this option, sorry.

Microsoft have confirmed that this is the case, and whilst it works very well, the following problems have been notified:-

1)	Wont work with a fax modem in Fax send mode (wont affect the fax).

2)	Some users have found that a fax modem in fax receive mode may hang. The DCD option should be turned off before receiving faxes.

Whilst all phone charges are believed correct, if you spot any errors please let us know.


About
This is version 1.00 of the help file, and the version number of the program can be found in the 'about' box.


Contact
CONTACT/SUPPORT

Ainley Publishing & Communications publish FONECOST.

We can be contacted as follows:-

POST

16 Copyground Court,

High Wycombe

Bucks

HP12 3HG

E-MAIL

raggorb@cix.compulink.co.uk OR

100014,2337 on CompuServe

ON-LINE SUPPORT

On CiX, there is an open conference called FONECOST that is available for any queries that you have with this shareware version.

BUG REPORTS & SUGGESTIONS

Many of the features that you now see were the ideas of the beta-testers. If you have any ideas that you feel would benefit FoneCost please let us know when you register. If we implement your idea you will receive a free upgrade to version 2.

If you have found a bug please let us know. If you are a registered user then as soon as we have fixed it, you will receive a disk containing the bugfix.


Requirements

FONECOST for WINDOWS requires a minumum of Microsoft® Windows 3.1.


Version Details

V1.00	General Release


COPYRIGHT

This program is copyright 1992, 1993  & 1994 R A Gorbutt & Ainley Publishing & Communications. This version is the shareware version and may be copied to your friends, colleagues and uploaded to BBSs. Magazines wishing to place this on cover disk and/or cd-roms must contact APC for the latest version and possible customisation. Shareware libraries may place this is their library or cd-rom compilations provided that all files enclosed are left intact, and that only a small sensible charge is made for copying. APC reserve the right to alter this or amend or restrict at will and without notice. Any shareware library who advertises and doesnt  state clearly in the advert that Shareware programs will require further payment to the programs author if found useful  or something similar have no right to distribute this program.

All Registered trademarks are acknowledged. Ctl3dv2.dll is copyright Microsoft Corporation 1993.

The call charge data is copyright British Telecommunications plc, and Mercury Communications Ltd. and they hold no responsibility for any errors contained within this program.


MENU's

File Menu

Logging Menu

Options Menu

Help Menu


FILE MENU

IMPORT LOGGING DATA

This will load an existing FoneCost log file. If the file is incompatible then a warning will be given.

SAVE LOG DATA

This will save the stored call data using the imported log file name. The old file will be saved with a .BAK extension. If no log file has been imported then a dialog box will pop up asking you for a file name. In the Set Options dialog box there is choice that if selected will allow you to save the log automatically on exit, saving time.

SAVE AS LOG DATA

This will store the log file under a name of your choice. It defaults to a standard FoneCost log file which is in ASCII format for further use, however if you click on File Types, you can export as a Comma Delimited File for import into a spreadsheet or database. These will be saved with the extension .CDL This wont clear the log buffer, and will still need to be saved as a log file to be reused by FoneCost.

If the current imported log filename is used then it will be overwritten and the old one saved as a .BAK file (Previous .CDL files will be saved with an .OLD extension), otherwise if the file exists then an option to append, overwrite or cancel the operation will be given.

SAVE SETUP

This will save the setup and configuration including the distance, time and carrier selections that are current, the previous log file directory, timer and minimize options.

EXIT

Quits the program. If there are any unsaved stored calls, you will get the option to save or if AutoSave is selected from the Set Options, then the log will be saved automatically and the old file will be saved a .BAK file


 LOGGING

Show Logging Data

This shows details of the stored calls. If there aren't stored yet this option will warn you. The option to change details can be made here via the 'Alter' button. Comments can also be added via the 'Alter' button. The Quick button will bring up the QuickChoice selection.

Clear the Log

This will clear the logged calls buffer. For safety it will ask you if you are sure?


Options
OPTIONS MENU

Minimize On Timer/DCD

If this option is selected, when the timer button is pressed or the 'Use Modem DCD for Timer' is selected, the window will minimize and show the call charge information in a small icon sized window

Minimize always on Top

When the window is minimized, this icon will always appear on top of all other windows so you can see what is going on without losing it

Use Modem DCD for Timer

When this is selected the timer functions will wait for the modem Data Carrier Detect (DCD) line to acknowledge connection. (I don't think this will work in Windows NT!). If 'Minimize on Timer/DCD' is selected, then FONECOST will minimize. Use this during Comms sessions in Windows. This will only work for True Windows Comms Programs, if you run a DOS comms package such as 'Telix' etc. as a Window a conflict occurs. Please disable this option, sorry.

Set Options

Select to display dialog

This will bring up a dialog box enabling you to set the warning options, namely that when the call reaches a determined cost, a beep or a sound (WAV) file is played, and whether or not a dialog box will appear. This dialog box will appear on top of whatever work you are doing (unless you are in a DOS session full screen). Additionally the Com port that you use for your comms sessions can be selected. It defaults to Com Port 2, but this information is saved within the 'Save Setup' menu.

Define QuickDefine

This will bring up a list box enabling you to enter details for the 10 Pre-Defined QuickChoice positions, that enable you to change the keyboard and log call information with the click of the mouse or press of a button.

AutoSave Setup...

Allows you to automatically save the setup when you finish a FoneCost session.

Off

Switches off Autosave.

AutoSave except Modem DCD

Stops the Modem DCD facility state being saved automatically, but saves the rest of the setup.

AutoSave including Modem DCD

Will save the Modem DCD facility state along with the rest of the setup. You may find that when you start FoneCost again, it may appear minimized. If you find this a problem, clear the Modem DCD, save setup, and then select AutoSave except Modem DCD.

0: xxxx - 9: xxxx

The following 10 choices relate to the 10 QuickChoice pre-defined settings.

Reset to Default

This will reset the call charge settings to the settings when the program was loaded. If you are using AutoSave, your default will change to whatever you had set when you last used FoneCost.


Help
HELP MENU

Help

This will bring up this help file

About

This will show you the version number of FONECOST


Distance
This covers the distance of the call

Local 	Within the District (BT Only)

A	Within 35 miles (53Km)

B	Over 35 miles (53Km)

B1	Over 35 miles (53Km) low cost routes

D	Calls to PCN Phones (0956, 0973)

Mobile	Calls to Mobiles (0850, 0860, 0836, 0831, 0374, 0370, 0385, 0881)

Premium	Calls to 0898, 0891, 0336, 0338, 0660, 08364, 0839,

Eire	Calls to the Irish Republic.

America	Calls to USA & Canada. This can be changed in FoneData


Main
The Main Display

Click on the area you wish to know more about


Time
Time Bands

Peak	Mon-Fri 0900-1300 (Only on certain rates)

Daytime	Mon-Fri 0800-1800*

Cheap 	Mon-Fri 0000-0800*

Mon-Fri 1800-2359*

Weekend	All day Sat & Sun*

Auto	Reads the computer clock

* - America is Standard Mon-Fri 0800-2000, and cheap rate at other times. This timezone can be changed in FoneData to follow UK Domestic times as shown above.

Consult your carrier regarding public holidays


Carrier
Carrier Bands

BT	The normal carrier for phone calls

Mercury	For those who subscribe to the Mercury service

Cable	Reserved for future expansion of FoneCost


AutoStore
If Checked this option will automatically store the details of the call after the timer is stopped. If Unchecked the details can only be stored after 'Calculate' is selected and 'Store' is clicked in the price display dialog.


TimerButton
This will either start or stop the timer depending on whether or not the timer is running. If the timer is not active and 'Minimize on Timer' in the 'Options' menu is selected, then FONECOST will minimize and run as an icon. After the timer is stopped the duration is transferred to the time edit box for further use if required.


CalculateButton
This will calculate the cost of the phone call using the parameters determined from the Distance, Time & Carrier. The duration will be taken from the time edit box. The cost will be shown both exclusive and inclusive of V.A.T. in a separate dialog box.


TimerStatus
This box shows the status of the timer, the number of calls stored in the log. The status of the import log buffer is also shown.. The timer will show the current cost of the call (inclusive of V.A.T.) that has occurred since the timer was last started, or the status of the timer if not running. If 'Timer : DCD' is displayed then the timer is waiting for the modem to connect.

The log calls  will show how many calls are stored in the log buffer. The Log Calls will show the total number of calls in the buffer, the New will display the total number of new calls, i.e. this session. After the calls details have been saved as a log file, this will be clear

FONECOST's timer can be remote started and stopped using Windows Dynamic Data Exchange(DDE). Simple macros are available for MS Word for Windows V2. Please Check the readme file for any later developments on this front.


DurationStatus
This edit box requires the duration of the call in minutes and seconds. If the call is more than 1 hour please enter it in minutes.


Timer

One of the main features is the timer which can be started and stopped via a multitude of ways. The most obvious is the 'Timer' button on the main display which will toggle the timer on/off. The status display will show the accumulating cost of the call if running. If 'Minimize on Timer' is selected in the options menu, then upon running the timer, FONECOST will minimize and continue running.

To stop the timer when minimized, you don't need to restore the window, but on clicking on the icon, the system menu will appear. There is a new item marked 'Stop Timer' which will stop the timer. The timer can also be started this way.

DDE (Dynamic Data Exchange) can be used to toggle the timer, and simple macros have been written for MS Word for Windows version 2. Furthers macros should be listed in the readme file if available.

Finally, the final way of using the timer is using the modems DCD line, so that in comms sessions under windows, then the call details can be stored. To use this, Select 'Use Modem DCD for Timer' in the 'Options' menu. If 'Minimize on Timer/DCD' is selected, then FONECOST will minimize and await the connection. At first it 'sniffs' Com port 2, but this can be changed with the 'Set Options' in the 'Options' menu. This will only work for True Windows Comms Programs, if you run a DOS comms package such as 'Telix' etc. as a Window a conflict occurs. Please disable this option, sorry.

If 'Auto Store on Timer' is selected then everytime the timer is turned off, the details of the call will be stored in the log.

CAVEAT

FONECOST uses the integral timers within Windows 3.1 and are reliable BUT, in a period of heavy activity such as disk accesses, it may be that windows will miss the odd timer call. However whilst the timer display may appear to be out, the details stored in the log will be correct.


Error Messages

Icon too small or Font too big, Will use small font in icon

This will appear when you are about to try and show the call cost in the minimized icon and you are running in a resolution that has large fonts in relation to the icon size. This is common on 1024*768 with large fonts. What will happen is that a smaller font will be substituted in the minimized icon. If unreadable or too big please contact APC.

No System Timer Available, No Timer

This will appear should you attempt to run the background timer when all system timers are in use. This should be rare as there are 18 timers available. If you get this please shut down some applications


Set Options...
Set Options

Click on the area you wish to know more about.


Determines what noise shall be given when the warning has triggered. If WAV is selected, then a .WAV file must be selected below and can only be played through a sound card or the Microsoft PC Speaker Driver available separately.


This will determine what com port FoneCost will sniff in determining the Modem DCD status. If you dont use modems then dont worry about this option.


If selected, when the warning cost has been passed a dialog box can pop up. This shouldnt impede the use of Windows, nor damage downloads in progress if on a modem. Pressing OK will clear the box.


This determines at what price the warning mechanism can be activated.


This will show the current default title that can be used on display and the call logging data. As this is the default only the last 10 letters can be changed. The word Default: will appear in front.


This will enable/show the currently selected WAV file that can be played as the warning message. To clear the WAV file, press SELECT and then CANCEL on the file selector dialog.


This will enable/show the currently selected log file that will be imported upon program startup. To clear the autolog file, press SELECT and then CANCEL on the file selector dialog.


Quick Choice

FoneCost now has 10 user defined settings which can be called up either as a hot-key or a menu choice in the menu Options. Initially FoneCost will show them as Undefined but this can be amended easily in the Options menu by selecting Define QuickAlter. This will bring up a listbox, and by clicking on a number of your choice then clicking on Define, (Also Double clicking will do this), this will bring up the alter dialog box which will let you set the required settings. Dont forget to give it a title!. Once you are happy dont forget to save your settings otherwise this will be lost. It is now possible to have different warning price settings from the main price set in the Set Options dialog box.

To use QuickChoice, either select the relevant menu choice as indicated in the Options menu or use a hot-key such as Control + QuickChoice number from the Numeric keypad only. This will alter the settings to your pre-defined requirements. To reset to the set-up at the beginning, press Control-R or select Reset in the Options menu.

Amending Call Data

Once at the logging details dialog box, you can now alter the selected call to a QuickChoice by pressing on the Quick button. This will bring up a list box enabling you to make your choice. Selecting OK or double-clicking will change the call to your QuickChoice setting. Currently hot-keys are unsupported at this stage.


Hot Keys
Hot-Keys

Current hot-keys that work from the main window are as follows:-

Ctrl-I	Import Log File

Ctrl-L	Show Logged Calls.

Ctrl-R	Reset settings to startup(Default)

Ctrl-S	File Save As.

Ctrl-U	Use Modem DCD for Timer

Ctrl-0 to Ctrl-9 (Numeric Keypad Only)

Change to QuickChoice settings

F12	File Save As

Shift-F12	File Save.


AutoSave
If checked, this will allow the FoneCost log file to be saved automatically when you close FoneCost under the name of the last opened log file.


FoneData
This is a separate program that will allow the user to define the prices, along with the name of the ninth distance band (default: Eire) to a customisable choice such as Europe or America. This program comes free with the registered version of FoneCost.


This determines what is shown on the programs title bar, which is also shown when minimized. Logfile will show the name of the current log file, QuickChoice will show the name of the currently selected QuickChoice settings


Modems take time to negotiate the link after connection. Any figure shown here in seconds will be added to the total duration on modem dcd timed calls only. Each modem will vary, please time yours from connection to the time the timer starts, then enter this time here.


Toolbar

Load a Log File

Save Log File (Same as Save as...)

Shows Logging Information

Resets settings to your default

Toggles Modem DCD

Shows Help File


REGISTER

Click Here to PRINT this page

Name_______________________________________________________

Address	________________________________________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

________________________________________________

Postcode	________________________________________________

Phone	________________________________________________

I would like to register FoneCost and enclose a cheque for £15^ made payable to APC.

Signed	________________________________________________

APC would be grateful if you could answer a couple of questions below:-

Are you a member of CiX or CompuServe?    YES/NO *

If Yes, what is your id?	__________________________________________

Do you have a modem, and if so do you find FoneCost useful with it?

YES/NO *

If you have any other comments or ideas about FoneCost, please let us know.

* - Delete as applicable.

^ - A special offer may be available, please see the README.1ST file.

Please send to

APC

16 Copyground Court

HIGH WYCOMBE

Bucks

HP12 3HG


SHAREWARE

This program is distributed via SHAREWARE. This means that if you continue to use it, then you must register. By doing so, you will receive the latest version of FoneCost, FoneData which will allow you alter prices as well as modify the last three distance bands to suit your use. A printed manual will also be sent as well.

FoneCost was originally written for the Atari ST, and it was the success of that as Shareware that led to us writing it for Windows. Shareware is kept alive by honesty, and gives you software at a lower price by keeping the overheads down. Support it and it will support you. FoneCost only costs £15 to register. A special offer may be available, please see the readme.1st file. It may be possible to register FoneCost on-line with Compuserve. Please see the readme.1st file for further details.

Register FoneCost

16 Copyground Court

HIGH WYCOMBE

HP12 3HG


UPGRADE POLICY

APC will endeavour to  make upgrades available either free with a possible small cost to cover a disk & handling where a minor revision or bugfix warrants it. A minor revision is where the version number increases by a decimal point (i.e. 1.00 to 1.1 or 1.10 to 1.12). On-Line users of CiX or CompuServe may be able to get the latest version by downloading. More details upon registering.

A major revision, such as version 1 to version 2 will be made available at a preferential rate to all registered users. When this happens all users will be notified.