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; Text file for use by 9OHELP.EXE. Place that program and this file in the
; in the same directory, then that directory type 9OHELP.
;
; Except as specified "User-Added Information," below, no alterations may be
; made to this file. Doing so violates the copyright and may make this file
; unusable. Use well, and enjoy.
;
5 June 1990
8
PRINTOK
TITLE: 9 O'CLOCK USERS MANUAL
USERS MANUAL
-- for --
[tm]
******* ******* ** ****** ** ******* ****** ** **
** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **
******* ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ****
** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** ** **
** ******* ****** ******* ******* ****** ** **
THE COMPLETE TIME-TRACKING SYSTEM [tm]
PROFESSIONAL & PERSONAL VERSIONS
Copyright (c) 1990, J. W. Olsen
All Rights Reserved
Advocate Enterprises, Ltd.
Chicago
~ (Menu)
====================== Run-Time Menu ======================
= =
= Q - QUIT Program =
= A - ALL SECTIONS of File =
= =
= 1 - Becoming Acquainted with & Installing 9OCLOCK/9OLOG =
= 2 - Quick-Start Guide =
= 3 - Using The 9OCLOCK Time-Tracking Program =
= 4 - Using The 9OLOG Data Base Manager =
= 5 - Special Conditions, Error Messages, Cautions =
= 6 - (User-Added Information) =
= 7 - License Agreement, Credits & Disclaimer =
= =
=============================================================
~ (Section 1)
<< BECOMING ACQUAINTED WITH & INSTALLING 9 O'CLOCK >>
9 O'CLOCK is the COMPLETE time-tracking system--offering extensive
features while being easy to use. It times up to nine simultaneous
events while your computer is doing something else--even while it is
turned off. Each clock may have an attached note and user-determined
account code. Its alarm clock pops up a reminder of your choice while
foreground programs run. If yours is the 9 O'CLOCK PROFESSIONAL
package, each clock also provides extensive billing options for later
analysis or printout with the accompanying advanced data base manager.
9 O'CLOCK may be run as a TSR (background) program or as a stand-alone
application, and can export its data to file formats compatible with
virtually any word processor, data base and spreadsheet programs,
including direct dBASE support. Its own data base holds more than 2
billion records. As an extra "plus," 9 O'CLOCK provides an operating-
system "gateway" with which you can pause foreground programs, run
others, then return exactly where you left off.
This product is currently available for IBM-compatible computers with a
minimum configuration of one disk drive (hard disk recommended) and
128K memory (192K if the 9OLOG Data Base Manager is run from within
9OCLOCK rather than in stand-alone mode). PC-DOS or MS-DOS v. 2.0 or
higher required. Inquire about 9 O'CLOCK for other environments.
Contact information appears in the last section.
By use of this product, you agree to the terms and conditions of the
License Agreement in the last section of this manual.
9 O'CLOCK is easy to use, but please take the time to browse the
complete manual first to avoid surprises. 9 O'CLOCK must be installed
AND configured for your system to function properly.
INSTALLATION
First, please ensure you received all files:
1ST-TIME.COM Advises how to get started. READ THIS FIRST.
9OCLOCK.EXE Main time-tracking program (PROFESSIONAL version)
or 9OCLOCKP.EXE (Same, PERSONAL version)
9OCLOCK.FOR One-paragraph summary (for BBS use--optional)
9OCLOCK.HIS History of revisions (PROFESSIONAL version)
or 9OCLOCKP.HIS (Same, PERSONAL version)
9OCLOCK.HLP Text file you're now reading
9OCLOCK.L01 Permanent data base
or 9OCLOCKP.L01 (Same, for PERSONAL version)
9OHELP.EXE Displays file you're reading to screen or printer
9OLOG.EXE Data Base Manager (PROFESSIONAL version)
or 9OLOGP.EXE (Same, PERSONAL version)
9OLOG.F01 Report header/footer/appendix text file
or 9OLOGP.F01 (Same, for PERSONAL version)
9OFILE.BAT Batch file to quickly store all clocks in data base
or 9OFILEP.BAT (Same, for PERSONAL version)
9OPAUSE.BAT Batch file to quickly pause all clocks
or 9OPAUSEP.BAT (Same, for PERSONAL version)
9README.COM Latest information, updates and introduction. (This is
or 9READMEP.COM an optional file. If present, READ BEFORE INSTALLING
THIS PRODUCT IF YOU HAVE NOT YET DONE SO. It may
contain important updates to this HELP file.)
AEHELP.EXE Access help files for ALL Advocate Enterprises products
AEORDER.EXE Display product descriptions and prints licensing form
AEORDER.HLP Text file for AEORDER.EXE
AHDINSTL.COM Fully-automated hard-disk installation program
If new to ordering software, note that distribution disks don't contain
"operating system files" because of the exceptional costs we would have
to pass along. So to get started, you must make copies of these files
before using them. Also, you'll want to install the above files to best
advantage. It's quick and easy. . . .
If This Is an Upgrade...
Before following the installation instructions below, be SURE to first
complete any reports, etc., with your old version and its data base,
then COPY all 9 O'CLOCK files from your Advocate directory to a back-up
disk. Some of those files may not be compatible with the new files, and
installing the new files can OVERWRITE (i.e., erase and replace) the
old ones. (This is not true for every upgrade. If continued use of data
from your old version is important, registered users may contact us. Be
prepared to provide both old and new registration numbers from the
label on your original disks. With that information, we can advise how
to properly merge data between your specific versions.)
After installing the new files, you may want to read the
9OCLOCK.HIS (9OCLOCKP.HIS for PERSONAL version) file for a synopsis of
enhancements since your prior version. Doing so will suggest which
topics of this manual will best assist you to learn about new features.
Hard-Disk Systems
You may either use the accompanying AHDINSTL.COM installation program
(STRONGLY recommend!) or manually install all files. Each is covered
separately below.
AUTOMATIC INSTALLATION: AHDINSTL.COM will do it all for you--copy all
files to your hard disk, ensure they're accessible from ANYWHERE on
your system and inform your operating system about how to use Advocate
Enterprises products to maximum potential. All YOU must know before
running AHDINSTL are the drive letters of the floppy drive containing
your new files and the hard drive from which you "boot" (start up) your
system each day. (These are almost always A: and C:, respectively,
which are defaults AHDINSTL uses unless you change them.) Also, it is
presumed your system already knows how to access its COMMAND.COM, a
basic operating system program whose services AHDINSTL accesses.
AHDINSTL will inform you if it encounters any problems in this regard.
The following text details the tasks AHDINSTL performs. If you aren't
technically oriented, you may want to simply skip this discussion and
jump to the "All Systems" heading later in this section. Knowledge of
the following isn't essential except in the unlikely event of
installation difficulty.
AHDINSTL performs these steps during installation:
1) It finds (or if necessary creates) a directory called AD_ENT
off the root directory of the drive you indicate as your "boot" drive.
2) Your AUTOEXEC.BAT file (used by the operating system to set up
your environment each time you start your computer) is inspected for a
"PATH" command. If found, the new AD_ENT directory is appended to it.
If no PATH command (or no AUTOEXEC.BAT file) is found, one is created.
3) If your AUTOEXEC.BAT file contains no previous Advocate
Enterprises "SET" command, one is added. (Advocate products use this to
determine their "home directory" for various files.)
4) If you had a prior AUTOEXEC.BAT file, it is saved as
AUTOEXEC.BAK as a precaution. The only time you're ever likely to need
it is if you had too many or very long prior SET commands. In that
case, the operating system will advise next time you start up that you
are "Out of environment space." (AHDINSTL uses VERY little environment
block space. So if you've reached your current environment limit now,
you'll soon run into it with another product anyway.) The solution is
easy. See the discussion of the CONFIG.SYS file's "SHELL" command in
your operating system manual. (Contact us as indicated in the last
section if you need further help.)
5) You will be offered the chance to have AHDINSTL "coldboot"
(restart) your computer when done. This immediately activates the
changes the program makes for you; otherwise, the operating system
won't know about them until the next time you restart the computer.
This is provided as a convenience for you. IMPORTANT: DON'T coldboot if
you're currently running other applications in the background.
(Coldbooting is equivalent to telling your computer to forget
everything it's doing and start over just as if you had turned it on
for the day.) IF YOU DON'T HAVE THE INSTALLER COLDBOOT YOUR SYSTEM,
9 O'CLOCK WILL NOT FUNCTION UNTIL THE NEXT TIME YOU TURN ON YOUR
COMPUTER. Now, see "All Systems," below.
MANUAL INSTALLATION: You may simply copy all files into a directory of
your choice with a favorite copy program. Just ensure that directory is
on your PATH. Then, add a "SET" command EARLY in your AUTOEXEC.BAT
file. We assume if you're doing this manually you're familiar with how
to properly edit that file. The command to add begins with:
SET ADENT=
and followed IMMEDIATELY by the drive AND directory containing your new
product. Note that spacing, etc., MUST be in exactly the above format
and maximum length of the drive and directory is 63 characters. The
operating system treats them literally. In particular, ensure there are
no trailing spaces after the drive and directory. Example:
SET ADENT=C:\UTILITIES
IMPORTANT: Your operating system won't offer the benefits of this new
command until the NEXT time you restart your computer.
Floppy-Disk-Only Systems
Format a blank disk and add your operating system as usual. This means
either formatting the blank disk with the "/S" ("sysgen") option
(detailed in your operating system manual), or first formatting it and
then using your operating system's SYSGEN program. In either case, next
copy COMMAND.COM and your favorite file copying utility to the disk and
place it in drive A:. Place the new distribution disk in drive B:.
Now, copy files from B: to A:. (If you only have one drive, the
operating system will treat it as both drive A: and drive B:. Simply
place the distribution disk in the drive and tell your file copying
utility to copy from B: to A:.) Follow either of these options:
OPTION 1: If you are simply evaluating 9 O'CLOCK to confirm that you
want to register it or you have a high-capacity disk, the following
command may be used:
COPY B:*.* A: /V
OPTION 2: On the other hand, for permanent use of a registered copy,
you may want to leave more room for a growing data base than would be
the case if you copied ALL files to the relatively small space of a
floppy disk. In that case, replace the above command with the following
group of commands to copy files 9OCLOCK/9OLOG need every time they run:
COPY B:9OCLOCK*.EXE A:/V
COPY B:9OCLOCK.?0? A: /V
COPY B:9OLOG*.*A: /V
COPY B:*.BAT A: /V
This will result in six files. (9OCLOCK and 9OLOG will create more
files on this disk when you run them.) Finally, format another disk in
the same way as previously, and copy the remaining files to that disk.
Commands:
COPY B:*.FOR A: /V
COPY B:*.HIS A: /V
COPY B:*.HLP A: /V
COPY B:9OHELP.EXE A: /V
COPY B:9README?.COM A: /V
COPY B:A*.* A: /V
COPY B:1*.* A: /V
This will result in up to 10 files being transferred onto the second
disk. (The exact number varies.)
IMPORTANT: Regardless of whether you copy the files to one or two
disks, see the discussion on the AUTOEXEC.BAT "SET" command under
"MANUAL INSTALLATION," above. The command you'll probably want to add
to your AUTOEXEC.BAT file is one of the following, assuming you will
keep your Advocate products in the root directory:
SET ADENT=A:\
SET ADENT=B:\
ANOTHER IMPORTANT NOTE: 9OCLOCK and 9OLOG MUST have access to the
Advocate directory at ALL times you are within the program. (If 9OCLOCK
has been loaded as a resident program with its TSR command, access to
its directory isn't needed while you're using another application, but
IS needed each time after you use your Hotkey to return to 9OCLOCK
before using any function. 9OLOG requires that the Advocate directory
be accessible at the time you load it. Do not remove the disk with your
Advocate directory until you have fully exited either program.)
All Systems
Use ONLY the working copies you create. Thwart Murphy's Law by safely
storing the originals--just in case.
PERSONAL VS. PROFESSIONAL VERSION
The PERSONAL version of 9 O'CLOCK is designed for users who don't bill
for their time. It's slightly smaller and faster, excludes options
related to financial data which would only get in your way and in their
place provides an expanded "note" field for each clock.
The PROFESSIONAL version permits you to set hourly rates for each clock
and continually computes and displays your earnings for each clock.
Many sophisticated billing options are offered, such as optional
automatic "rounding" to time/bill to units of your choice, default
hourly rates of your choice (easily overridden at any time), etc. The
PROFESSIONAL data base manager also provides advanced totaling and
printout features for the financial data.
IMPORTANT: This manual applies to both versions except where otherwise
noted. Discussion which applies exclusively to the PROFESSIONAL version
is indicated by the following token: [*P*].
(If you're testing or using one version but think the other may be more
appropriate, it is particularly important to review the entire manual
to become aware of many significant differences between the versions
which may affect your decision. Also, note that printout report
terminology varies between versions. For example, "Elapsed Time" under
the PERSONAL version appears as "Billable Time" for the PROFESSIONAL
version.)
Many files for the PERSONAL version have a "P" appended to their
filenames (see above list) . If you have a PERSONAL version and are
sure you'll never want to add the PROFESSIONAL version on the same
machine, you might want to rename them to excise the Ps for more
intuitive use. (The name differences is to permit you to potentially
install BOTH versions without one overwriting and thus erasing the
other.) However, do NOT rename 9OLOGP.EXE, 9OCLOCKP.W01, 9OCLOCKP.L01,
9OLOG.C01 or 9OLOGP.F01. Doing so will mean the main programs will be
unable to "find" these files when needed.
SOME ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS
You have received at no charge a special utility which takes advantage
of some features of your operating system. AEHELP.EXE provides a
convenient, single access point to the main help and registration
information for ALL Advocate products properly installed according to
the above instructions. (If you have other, earlier Advocate
Enterprises products, you may maximize their use simply by placing them
in the same, newly created Advocate directory.)
We've made a conscientious effort to accommodate a broad range of needs
which we've identified and which have been suggested by users. But
enhancements are always possible. We'll work with you if you have
ideas, difficulties--whatever. And, we'll supply a complimentary
upgrade containing any of your suggestions we implement. This benefits
you and others. Contact information appears in the last section. For
now, enjoy your new time-keeping tool!
~ (Section 2)
<< QUICK-START GUIDE >>
9 O'CLOCK is designed so you can grasp its primary features quickly,
growing into more advance features as needed or desired. But proceeding
without at least some knowledge can lead to unwelcome surprises. (For
example, you probably don't want to return to the computer tomorrow
and find 20+ hours on a still-running clock. And you won't want to exit
9OCLOCK in stay-resident mode without knowing how to "get back in.")
So, while the wisest approach is to print and browse the ENTIRE manual
before using the programs, we've provided this Quick-Start Guide for
those so anxious to explore they just can't wait.
At an absolute minimum, we urge you to: 1) print and read THIS "DOs and
DON'Ts" section in its entirety; and 2) print and keep handy a copy of
Section 5 (a sort of "whadda I do now that I've done this?" summary).
Much of the following is condensed for purposes of the Quick-Start
Guide. If you don't feel you understand an issue, it probably is
explained in more detail and/or in more "novice-friendly" language in
later sections.
Remember, this product MUST be installed for your system before it will
run. (See Section 1.)
INFORMATION COMMON TO 9OCLOCK.EXE & 9OLOG.EXE
In most cases, pressing your ESCape key aborts the current activity
with no changes made.
Both programs utilize the various cursor-movement keys on your numeric
keypad. It is important to note that proper functioning of these keys
requires that your Num Lock key/light not be set on. If either program
"beeps" rather than responding to otherwise proper commands, this is
the first thing to check.
All time functions follow the computer 24-hour time format. Note that
midnight is 00:00:00, NOT 24:00:00.
Never move 9 O'CLOCK files to different directories or drives or rename
them except as indicated in the manual.
Floppy-drive-only users: The disk containing your Advocate directory
MUST be accessible to both programs at all times you are actually in
them. (If you exit 9OCLOCK in stay-resident mode, you may remove the
disk until the next time you use the TSR Hotkey to re-enter the
program.)
INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO 9OCLOCK.EXE
(Section 3 elaborates on topics related to 9OCLOCK. Section 5 adds
information about error conditions and other unusual circumstances.)
9OCLOCK.EXE may be used in three ways--as a normal, "stand-alone"
program, a memory-resident "pop-up" program or a "home base" from which
to run external programs through an operating-system "gateway." Each
approach has advantages and disadvantages. (You may freely combine the
three approaches. But once you've made the program memory resident, it
remains resident until you turn off or reset your computer.) Some
functions are unavailable while using some approaches.
Make note of (or change, if you prefer) the Hotkey used to return to
9OCLOCK after exiting in stay-resident mode. The same Hotkey also turns
off 9OCLOCK's alarm clock. If you--intentionally or otherwise--use one
of these functions, you will need to know the current Hotkey. It is
displayed in the Utility Options box while you are in 9OCLOCK.
The COM: REENTRY feature is for advanced or adventuresome computer
users only. To avoid potentially serious consequences, do NOT change
its status without reading Section 3.
Some features can be temporarily unavailable. 9OCLOCK may have sensed
a condition making it temporarily unsafe to perform a function. Or, the
cause may be otherwise. See Section 5.
A particular case in point can't be overemphasized: 9OCLOCK and
9OLOG can't access their mutual data file concurrently without
hopelessly confusing your operating system. If 9OCLOCK "knows" you're
using 9OLOG (when you use its "Database" or "Gateway" command), it will
refuse user attempts which would cause such a problem. If it doesn't
know, you can expect the worst. So be forewarned: NEVER attempt to
activate 9OCLOCK with its Hotkey from within 9OLOG. (And, if you're
working in a multitasking environment, don't attempt to run both
programs concurrently.) Section 5 discusses how to salvage matters if
you accidentally do so.
If your system date or time is incorrect (usually only if your hardware
doesn't have a "real-time clock"), it is ESSENTIAL to set the time/date
in either of two ways BEFORE any clocks are running. You may use any
method you're now using. Or, use 9OCLOCK's own date/time feature. Using
an external method unknown to 9OCLOCK AFTER a clock is running can
CORRUPT YOUR DATA FILE. (If you need to change the time/date because
your system doesn't have a real-time clock, or if you forget and change
the date and time with an external program after a clock is running,
see Sections 3 and 5. Do likewise if you later discover a date or time
you had entered wasn't accepted by the operating system. The system
date and time displayed by 9OCLOCK always reflects the time/date as
taken directly from your operating system.)
Note that exiting 9OCLOCK or turning off the computer does NOT pause or
reset clocks and the Alarm, permitting you to time events while away
from the computer. It also permits you to set the Alarm for the next
day. So be SURE to Pause, Reset or File active clocks and Alarms when
not actually timing anything.
Relatedly, be SURE to File a clock BEFORE ITS TOTAL, ELAPSED TIME
REACHES 24 HOURS. Otherwise, it will "roll over" and increment again.
INFORMATION SPECIFIC TO 9OLOG.EXE
(Section 4 elaborates on topics related to 9OLOG. Section 5 adds
information about error conditions and other unusual circumstances.)
Before using the 9OLOG Data Base Manager, you almost surely will want
to read Section 4. Like any sophisticated data base program, you'll
find you probably need some guidance to become familiar with navigation
and features. But most critically, if you previously established
9OCLOCK as a stay-resident program today, do NOT attempt to return to
9OCLOCK from within 9OLOG. Doing so not only can force you to reboot
the system but could corrupt your 9 O'CLOCK data base. Both require
potentially conflicting use of the same files which can confuse your
operating system.
Note that 9OLOG's Browse main menu has several "undocumented"
navigation keys in addition to those displayed. Cursor arrow keys,
etc., move you through the data base in very useful ways. Similarly,
these keys can assist in editing data and making other entries within
9OLOG. See Section 4 when ready to learn about them.
If you accidentally purge data you actually want to retain, it can be
salvaged. Refer to Section 5 IMMEDIATELY.
Though you should use the Zap (purging) function with due care, you
should also use it REGULARLY. Failure to do so will gradually cause
9OLOG to run slower and slower as it wades through ancient, unused
records again and again, wasting disk space in the process.
Particularly for floppy-drive-only users, it is also possible that the
data base would grow so large as to make purging impossible due to
unavailable disk space.
A PARTING SHOT
After ensuring your new time-tracking program is properly installed for
your system as described in Section 1, we again urge you to be sure to
print at least this section and Section 5 for reference before invoking
the programs. And if you'll allow us just one more attempt to make life
easier for you, we'll repeat our urging that you print the complete
manual while you're at it. (It takes even less keystrokes!) That way,
you'll have thorough information on virtually any question immediately
at hand when your curiosity (inevitably!) gets the better of you. Use
well, and productively. . . .
~ (Section 3)
<< USING THE 9 O'CLOCK TIME-TRACKING PROGRAM >>
We suggest you browse this section from beginning to end before using
any of the features. Use of some features affect others.
PRELIMINARY COMMENTS
When filenames are mentioned below, PERSONAL version users should
generally make the following substitutions (i.e., add a "P" to the main
portion of filenames):
Substitute: For: Examples:
9OCLOCKP 9OCLOCK 9OCLOCK.W01 becomes 9OCLOCKP.W01
9OLOGP 9OLOG 9OLOG.EXE becomes 9OLOGP.EXE
9OFILEP 9OFILE 9OFILE.BAT becomes 9OFILEP.BAT
9OPAUSEP 9OPAUSE 9OPAUSE.BAT becomes 9OPAUSEP.BAT
In most cases, pressing your ESCape key aborts the current activity
with no changes made.
Floppy-drive-only users: Remember, the disk containing your Advocate
directory MUST be accessible to 9OCLOCK at all times while you are
within the program. (If you exit it in TSR mode--see below--you may
remove the disk until the next time you use the TSR Hotkey to re-enter
9OCLOCK. In that case, access to the Advocate directory is again
needed until AFTER you exit.)
GENERAL STRATEGY
9OCLOCK.EXE may be used in three ways. We will discuss advantages and
disadvantages of each next. You may freely combine the three
approaches. But once you've installed the program as a TSR (memory-
resident) program, it remains resident until you next turn off or reset
your computer (or run a program designed to remove TSRs).
1) STAND-ALONE PROGRAM Under this approach, simply run 9OCLOCK.EXE just
like any other ordinary program. Any clocks you Start will remain fully
active until you later run the program again to Pause, Reset or File
their data.
Advantages: No memory is required between 9OCLOCK sessions. (All
data are stored to disk.)
Disadvantages: You can't re-enter 9OCLOCK from WITHIN another
program unless it has a "gateway" feature. The Alarm clock can't
execute, as 9OCLOCK is not kept in memory.
2) GATEWAY This is similar to the "stand-alone" approach. But instead
of exiting 9OCLOCK with the Quit function you use the OS Gateway
function to execute other programs from within 9OCLOCK.
Advantages: You won't be likely to forget a clock is running when
you turn off the computer because you are automatically returned to
9OCLOCK when done executing external commands. The Alarm clock works.
Disadvantages: You can't return to 9OCLOCK to alter clocks from
an external program's own gateway; you must exit that program first.
9OCLOCK occupies about 64K of memory until you later return to it and
use the Quit function.
3) TSR MODE Under this approach, 9OCLOCK stays in memory while you run
other programs as usual.
Advantages: You have instant access to 9OCLOCK at almost any time
simply by pressing your Hotkey no matter what else you may be doing
with your computer. Alarm works.
Disadvantages: 9OCLOCK occupies about 64K of memory until you
reset or turn off your computer. In some cases, access to the 9OLOG
Data Base Manager program and OS Gateway feature are temporarily
unavailable from WITHIN 9OCLOCK, if necessary to ensure the stable
state of the operating system. Of course you may freely and safely run
9OLOG or any external program after again exiting 9OCLOCK. Some
operating system and/or COMMAND.COM replacement software or other TSRs
may "cheat" on accepted programming practices and not "remember" that
TSRs such as 9OCLOCK are still resident, or may alter system data upon
which 9OCLOCK relies. In the unlikely event this happens, either
experiment by altering the sequence in which you load such software
(generally, placing 9OCLOCK in memory as a TSR AFTER other software is
best); or you may want to select one of the other two above approaches.
Which approach to choose? Unless we just need 9OCLOCK to time an
occasional activity or absolutely need all available memory for a
particularly memory-hungry foreground program, we generally select the
TSR approach. Its features--instant access to clocks, alarm and OS
Gateway from within foreground applications which don't have their own
gateways--are invaluable!
OVERVIEW OF SCREEN
Near the top of the screen are the current time, date, and elapsed time
since 9OCLOCK was loaded into memory. If the time or date is
inaccurate, the FIRST thing you should do is reset it using 9OCLOCK's
Utility menu option (see below). Note that the current time (as well as
Alarm--see below) uses the traditional computer 24-hour format of
hours:minutes:seconds. So, 9 a.m. is 09:00:00, noon is 12:00:00, 5 p.m.
is 17:00:00, midnight is 00:00:00, etc.
Most of the balance of the screen lists user-selectable Functions along
the left column, with the Dialogue box at the bottom. We'll discuss
each Function in a moment. But first, it's important to note that the
Dialogue box is the place to look for what to do next. Error/warning
messages, prompts, etc., are displayed there. Note too the Utility
Option Settings box on the right side near the bottom. This box
displays preferences you may establish with the Utilities function--
preferences which tell 9OCLOCK how you want it to behave.
As the opening Dialogue message indicates, you may select a main
function in either of two ways. You may press the underscored character
of any function. Or, you may use your cursor keys (arrow keys, End,
Home, PgUp, PgDn) to move the highlight bar over your choice, then
press ENTER. (Note: Proper functioning of cursor keys requires that
your Num Lock key/light not be set on.)
CLOCKS 1-9
At the heart of 9OCLOCK are these nine clocks, with which you can track
activities.
When you select a clock, several choices appear in the Dialogue box:
START Starts (or restarts) the clock. The clock will begin to
display a continually updated time display. ([*P*] If you
used the Utility function's Rounding feature, the number of
minutes you selected with that feature will immediately
appear, incrementing only after that number of minutes has
passed.)
PAUSE "Freezes" the selected clock until you again Start it or
use any of the next four functions. A pause indicator is
displayed immediately next to the clock's time display in
the PROFESSIONAL version to clearly distinguish running and
paused clocks, which otherwise appear identical if the
Utilities menu Default Hourly option is other than $0.00.
RESET Turns off the selected clock and "erases" its data.
UNIQUE Same as Start, except that any other currently running
clock(s) is/are Paused.
AGAIN Restarts the clock with the Note and Code of the LAST clock
you Filed or Reset. (The last clock may or may not be the
same numbered clock [1-9] as the current one. For example,
if you Filed Clock 1 and then used it for another purpose
you could reactivate its Note/Code on Clock 2.) Using Global
(see below) File and Store features has no effect on AGAIN.
It restores only the last INDIVIDUALLY Filed or Reset clock.
FILE Saves the selected clock's data to the permanent data base
and resets the clock.
NOTE You may attach an optional comment to the clock.
CODE You may attach an optional code to the clock. A code may
be up to 6 characters long. It may contain only alphanumeric
characters. Codes are VERY useful with 9OLOG, letting you
you select only related clock records to print or otherwise
manipulate.*
HOURLY [*P*] You may optionally enter an hourly rate. If so, the
Billable column on the screen will be continually updated to
reflect the clock's time multiplied by the hourly rate. Note
that you may change the hourly rate at any time to see how
it would alter Billable.
* Giving some thought to codes reaps high dividends when you later
work with your data base in 9OLOG. In general, try to use one code for
all clocks you're likely to print in a single report. An excellent
approach might be to join a three-character code for each client with a
three-digit code for each bill of that client. Thus, job #1 for client
#2 might be assigned a Code of 002001. Or, simply assign Codes on a
job-only basis, perhaps preceded by a year designator. Thus, job #3
during 1991 might have a Code of 910003. Unless you already have a
system for numbering projects, consider one of these methods until you
perhaps find a system more tailored to your particular needs. The first
has a side benefit of permitting you not only to more efficiently find
all records for a specific project but also all for a particular client
with 9OLOG. The second aids working with all records of a given job or
a given year.
GLOBALS
Similarly, this function makes it possible to Start, Pause, Reset or
File ALL currently active clocks at the same time. You generally will
want to globally File all clocks at the end of every computer session.
ALARM
If no current Alarm clock is set, you will be prompted for a time at
which an alarm will "beep" and an optional note will be displayed. If
an alarm IS currently set, you will be asked if you want to disable it.
If it is set and you want to change it, first disable the current
alarm.
Remember, the 24-hour time format is used (see above) and midnight is
00:00:00, NOT 24:00:00.
When the alarm time is reached, you'll hear a unique "warble" sound.
(Try it once for practice. Simply select Alarm and set it about 30
seconds later than the current time, displayed at the top of the
screen.)
If you've attached a note, it will be displayed unless it is unsafe to
do so because of conditions created by a foreground program. In that
case, the "warble" sounds without an accompanying message. (This is why
you should practice first to recognize the "warble.")
Foreground programs continue to run while the alarm sounds. To turn off
the "warble" and hide the message, press the 9OCLOCK Hotkey you
selected (see below).
Note that if you've exited 9OCLOCK without using the TSR or OS Gateway
approaches noted above, 9OCLOCK won't be in memory and thus will be
unable to sound the alarm. (If you attempt to do so, you will be given
a choice of disabling the alarm and exiting, or returning to the
9OCLOCK menu to take other actions.)
DATA BASE
This Function runs the 9OLOG Data Base Manager from within 9OCLOCK (if
you haven't moved or renamed 9OLOG.EXE after installing it).
Note: If you've previously exited 9OCLOCK as a TSR, return later and
attempt to use this Function, occasionally the operating system won't
be in a safe state to run an external program from within a TSR. If so,
9OCLOCK displays "[Function currently unavailable]" next to "DATA BASE"
and beeps if you attempt to use this Function. Though this is possible
if you've "hotkeyed" back into 9OCLOCK from a foreground program which
play some fancy tricks on the operating system, generally this
condition only exists if you "hotkey" back from the operating system
prompt itself. (If that occurs, simply use the TSR exit and run 9OLOG
like any other program.)
OS GATEWAY
This function permits you to run external commands just as though you
were at the operating-system prompt, but without leaving 9OCLOCK. (The
note about safety under DATA BASE, above, applies here too.)
UTILITIES
This Function permits you to change the system date and time and to set
9OCLOCK to operate as YOU would like. Its menu offers these choices:
SYSTEM TIME If your system date or time is incorrect (usually only
if your hardware doesn't have a "real time clock"), it
is ESSENTIAL that you set the time/date in either of
two ways before any clocks are running. 1) You may do
so with any method you choose (such as the operating
system's DATE and TIME commands) BEFORE using 9OCLOCK.
2) Or, you may do so with this feature of 9OCLOCK at
any time. Using any external method unknown to 9OCLOCK
AFTER loading 9OCLOCK can CORRUPT YOUR DATA FILE. (If
you forget and accidentally change the date and time
with an external program after 9OCLOCK is loaded, you
can avoid problems by first setting them back to their
earlier values with the same EXTERNAL command--they
need not be absolutely precise, but be sure the time
and date are NOT EARLIER than their previous values--
then return to 9OCLOCK and use this built-in feature.)
Note that after you request a date or time change,
9OCLOCK passes this request along to the operating
system for its benefit. If your request is illegal
(e.g., February 29th in other than a leap year), the
operating system will REJECT it. As it is essential
that 9OCLOCK always keep the same date/time as the
operating system, it in turn will accept the UNCHANGED
date/time from the operating system. So when using
this command, be careful during entry and then CHECK
the current date and time at the top of the screen to
ensure your request was accepted before proceeding. If
necessary, repeat the procedure.
HOTKEY Use this feature to select the Hotkey you will use to
re-enter 9OCLOCK while in TSR mode and to silence the
Alarm. (Even if you don't intend to use these features,
you should know your Hotkey--just in case you
inadvertently exit in TSR mode.)
COM: REENTRY (This is a feature for advanced computer users only.
Others may want to simply skip this discussion.)
In some cases, a foreground program' can be
adversely affected if it is using a serial port
(COM1:, etc.) when a user "freezes" it to re-enter a
TSR program. In other cases, doing so poses no
problem. As a precaution, left unchanged 9OCLOCK
won't let you re-enter with the Hotkey if a program
has captured the use of a COM: port until that port
has been returned to its prior state.
Experienced operators (or those willing to
experiment) can use COM: REENTRY to remove this
restriction to permit Hotkey re-entry to 9OCLOCK
regardless of COM: port redirection. (The most common
time it is unsafe to freeze a foreground program using
the COM: port is when it is actively transferring a
file to an external device.)
The general rule is not to freeze any program
while "real-time" use of a COM: port is required.
Listing all possibilities here isn't feasible. If in
doubt, just leave this option in "Restricted" status,
contact your computer consultant or, if you have
registered your copy of 9OCLOCK, contact us at the
address/telephone listed in the last section.
DEFAULT RATE [*P*] You may use this feature to set the default
hourly rate for all clocks, if desired. If so, the rate
will be automatically applied to all clocks. (It may be
overridden with an individual clock's Hourly feature
at any time.)
ROUNDING [*P*] If you prefer to bill on some standard unit of
time, enter the corresponding number of minutes
here and 9OCLOCK will automatically increment each
active clock and corresponding Billable amount
accordingly. You may select any value of 0 to 60
minutes.
For example, if you bill on a 1/10-hour basis,
you would enter 6. Any active clock will then display
6 minutes when first Started. Six minutes later it will
increment to 12, etc. The Billable amount will be
updated accordingly.
By selecting 0, the clock and Billable columns
columns will be incremented every second. Note that
the clocks will appear to increment continuously if
you select 0, whey they won't appear to move (for
several minutes) under other Rounding settings. Note
too that Rounding takes place IMMEDIATELY on all active
clocks.
MINIMUM BILL [*P*] These features let you set the range of "Billable
& MAXIMUM BILL Amount" for clocks. If you want to bill for all actual
time, simply use the defaults ($0.00 Minimum, $99999.99
Maximum). You may freely change these values even in
the middle of timing a project. 9OCLOCK always
internally remembers the "real" Billable Amount and
respond to changes you may make to these two values,
even "on the fly."
TSR & QUIT
Use these two functions to exit 9OCLOCK. (See discussion of approaches
under General Strategy, above.)
TSR leaves 9OCLOCK in memory, accessible with your selected Hotkey.
Note that if you attempt to load a SECOND copy of 9OCLOCK rather than
return to the current copy in memory with your Hotkey, an error message
will be displayed, advising you to use the Hotkey. Only one copy of
9OCLOCK may access its data at a time.
QUIT is the proper exit to run 9OCLOCK as a stand-alone program. (But
as noted, if you've previously exited 9OCLOCK as a TSR, it remains a
TSR. Using QUIT in this case is functionally equivalent to using the
TSR Function. Your selected Hotkey will continue to return you to
9OCLOCK.)
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS (Essential Maintenance)
Remember, exiting 9OCLOCK or turning off the computer does NOT pause or
reset clocks and alarm, permitting you to time events while away from
the computer (e.g., a visit to a client). It also permits you to set an
alarm for the next day. So be SURE to Pause, Reset or File all active
clocks when not actively timing anything.
Secondly, be SURE to File a clock BEFORE IT REACHES 24 HOURS. This
period may extend over several days (for example, a few hours of
activity on each of several days TOTALING less than 24 hours).
Otherwise, a clock's timer will "roll over" zero and increment again.
([*P*] The Billable amount will be inaccurate.) In our own office, it
is standard operating procedure to File all clocks every time we turn
off a computer. (If you want a reminder to begin the same timer the
next day, simply File the clock, then re-enter Note, Code, etc. without
Starting the clock. The next day, pressing Start will begin the same
time tracking anew. Later, with 9OLOG you can print all clock data for
the same event performed on different days with a single command based
upon the assigned Code. A side benefit is that each data base record
will correctly indicate the date an activity was performed.)
ADVANCED FEATURES (COMMAND-LINE ARGUMENTS, BATCH FILES, AUTOEXEC.BAT)
Less experienced users may perhaps want to skip using these special
features for now but probably should at least skim them to know what
capabilities exist.
Like most powerful programs, 9OCLOCK lets you add "switches" to the
command used to invoke the program to perform certain functions.
9OCLOCK offers five such switches. Note that if more than one is
present on the command line, they are processed IN THE FOLLOWING ORDER:
P Immediately pauses all active clocks (same as Global Pause)
F Immediately stores and resets all active clocks (same as Global
File)
D Immediately lets you set the system date/time (same as Utility
System Time)
Q Quit exit
T TSR exit (Note: If both T and Q switches are present, Quit takes
priority)
Like most MS-DOS/PC-DOS programs, 9OCLOCK's switches are placed on the
command line after 9OCLOCK, a space and a slash (NOT a backslash). No
spaces are allowed after the slash or between switches. Switches may be
in upper- or lower-case. For example, the following command loads
9OCLOCK exits in TSR mode:
9OCLOCK /T
Either of the following functionally equivalent commands would prompt
you for the system time/date, then immediately exit:
9OCLOCK /DQ
9OCLOCK /q/d
These may be typed at the operating-system prompt, or you may prepare a
"batch" file to perform them by simply typing the name of the batch
file. (See your operating-system manual for details on batch files.)
We've provided two common batch files for your convenience. By typing
9OPAUSE, the accompanying 9OPAUSE.BAT file Globally Pauses all active
clocks, then exit. Similarly, typing 9OFILE Globally Files all active
clocks. (You might use these as samples if you want to create other
batch files.) NOTE: These files ONLY work if 9OCLOCK is NOT currently
loaded as a TSR. If so loaded, attempting a batch file will remind you
that you must exit the second copy of 9OCLOCK the batch file loaded,
then use your Hotkey to enter the TSR copy of 9OCLOCK. Remember, two
copies of 9OCLOCK can't simultaneously have control of the data files.
As you may know, if present a special batch file called AUTOEXEC.BAT is
automatically executed whenever you start the computer. This file, if
present, is in the root directory of the disk with which you "boot"
(start) your computer, and is discussed in more detail in your
operating-system manual. This file, created during installation of
9OCLOCK, is always present on the disk on which you installed your
Advocate directory.
You can take advantage of this file by having it automatically load
9OCLOCK every time you turn on your computer--and even automatically
prompt you for the current date and time in a more inviting way than
the operating-system DATE and TIME commands. AUTOEXEC.BAT is a
particularly important file. If you're SURE you know how to edit a
batch file, you can add one of the following to your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
If you're UNsure, either ask your consultant (or us, if you've
registered 9OCLOCK) or practice by creating a test file, perhaps called
TEST.BAT. After it works properly, you can copy the identical lines
into your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. (Always save a back-up copy of the old
version on a bootable floppy--just in case.) The above command-line
switch illustrations are good examples of valid AUTOEXEC.BAT commands
as well.
When adding a command line to your AUTOEXEC.BAT file, be SURE to place
it AFTER the line already included there during installation of 9OCLOCK
which begins "SET ADENT=" and AFTER the line which begins with "PATH".
Note that commands added to AUTOEXEC.BAT take effect only after you
restart or reset your computer.
One final caution: If combining the /D and and exit (/T or /Q) switch,
be especially careful the date/time was accepted by the operating
system (see discussion on SYSTEM TIME, above).
~ (Section 4)
<< USING THE 9OLOG DATA BASE MANAGER >>
We suggest you read this section from beginning to end before using any
of its features. The status of some features directly affects the use
of others.
PRELIMINARY COMMENTS
When filenames are mentioned below, PERSONAL version users should
generally make the following substitutions (i.e., add a "P" to the main
portion of filenames):
Substitute: For: Examples:
9OCLOCKP 9OCLOCK 9OCLOCK.EXE becomes 9OCLOCKP.EXE
9OLOGP 9OLOGP 9OLOG.F01 becomes 9OLOGP.F01
Note that, generally, pressing your ESCape key aborts the current
activity without making any changes.
As with other data base programs, a "record" means all data related to
each other. (In our case, that means all data related to a single
filed clock.) A "field" is one element of a record (e.g., a clock's
Code and its Note are two separate fields).
IMPORTANT: NEVER attempt to use 9OCLOCK's TSR Hotkey to return it while
you are in 9OLOG. Doing so may force you to reboot your computer and
could result in a corrupted 9OCLOCK data base. Only one of the programs
at a time may have access to files common to both without confusing
your operating system.
Floppy-drive-only users: Remember, make sure the disk containing your
Advocate is in the drive you selected during installation (see Section
1) before running 9OLOG, and that it remains there until you have fully
exited.
EDITING STRINGS IN 9OLOG
Many functions request a "string" of data from you. A string is merely
a series of characters. For example, "12/30/89" is a string
representing a date. This discussion describes features 9OLOG provides
in editing such strings. Note that most of them do NOT apply to
9OCLOCK, partially because they are of lesser value there and partially
because, as a memory-resident program, conserving memory is a high
priority in 9OCLOCK for enhanced efficiency and convenience.
Generally, 9OLOG displays OVERWRITE or INSERT in its Dialogue box when
requesting strings. You may toggle between these two modes by pressing
your "Ins" (Insert) key. In INSERT mode, if the cursor is on a
character, whatever character you type is placed there and following
characters are moved to the right. If the string was already full, the
right-most character is "lost." In OVERWRITE mode, the new character
replaces the prior one. Experiment. While each can be advantageous in
various circumstances, some users prefer one to the other.
Often, 9OLOG will present you with the CURRENT entry for a string,
which you may edit rather than retype from scratch. Pressing ENTER
accepts the current string as it exists. The cursor keys (arrow keys,
Home, End) assist in navigating strings. Try them for practice. (Note:
Proper functioning of cursor keys requires that your Num Lock key/light
not be set on.)
If you enter a character in the LAST LEGAL position of a string (each
string has a maximum number of characters, indicated by the highlighted
area containing the string text), 9OLOG automatically accepts the
string. If the cursor is at any other position, you generally may have
9OLOG accept the string by pressing ENTER. At any time, pressing Esc
quits with no change to the string as it previously existed.
Many fields disallow spaces. In those cases, attempting to press the
spacebar will result in a "beep." The same is true in the case of Date
and Time fields if you attempt to enter anything except numbers. Also,
certain combinations are illegal (e.g., entering a "2" as the first
digit of a month--there are only 12 months, or a "2" as the second
digit of the date if you entered a "3" as the first digit--that is, the
"32" day of the month). Similarly, the Code field may contain only
numbers and letters of the alphabet. The earliest legal year is "90"
(for 1990), the year in which this program was released to the public
and thus the first clock date. The latest legal year is "99" (for
1999). NOTE: If you want to "erase" rather than replace characters when
spaces aren't allowed, simply use your Del (delete) key.
OVERVIEW
9OLOG is a full-featured data base manager for data stored by 9OCLOCK.
With it, among other things you can edit, delete, total and print clock
data--even create new records "on the fly."
The 9OLOG screen has four major sections. The area across the top
provides useful statistics about the data base as a whole. The Dialogue
box across the bottom is continually updated to advise you of current
options or status, and occasionally responds to your requests for
information about the data base as a whole. The box on the left
provides main-menu selections. When a data base record is currently
active, it is displayed in the box on the right.
DATA BASE STATISTICS AREA
The first line in this area near the top of the screen notes the total
number of records currently in the data base, the number of those
records in active status (i.e., not marked for deletion), the number in
inactive status and the number "tagged" (discussed below--always zero
when you enter the program).
The second line contains four dates: the current date, the last time
9OCLOCK added a record to the data base, the last time 9OLOG CHANGED OR
ADDED a record to the data base, and the last time you purged the data
base of inactive records.
CURRENT RECORD BOX
This area on the right of the screen displays the record on which you
are currently working (if any). Besides time, note and other data for a
record, the date it was placed into the data base is also displayed.
The top line in this box also notes a number reflecting the position of
the currently-displayed record within the data base. (Note: The number
for a record can change if you Zap--purge--inactive records.) It also
shows whether the current record is active ("Y") or not ("N").
Similarly, It also shows the tagged status, as discussed below.
The bottom line in this box shows whether you are moving FORWARD (from
beginning of the data base to its end) or REVERSE (toward the
beginning). It is a good idea to keep an eye on the Direction. 9OLOG
automatically changes it when it's illogical or impossible to continue
in the Direction you last requested. Note that the Direction is
automatically set to FORWARD upon entry to most major functions.
MAIN MENU BOX
This box has three sections: Current Selection Criteria, Print Options
and Functions. The Selection Criteria (and in some cases Print Options)
directly affect Functions, so it is important that you ensure the top
two sections are set as desired before using the Functions.
Record Selection Criteria
As any data base grows, it can become unwieldy if you must work with
every record when you only want to process a select few. The Selection
Criteria inform most Functions about which records it should "find"
when navigating the data base for you. Left unchanged, all records in
the data base except those you previously marked as Inactive (deleted)
will be "found" and processed. You will usually want to adjust at least
some Selection Criteria each time before you use a Function. Criteria
may be changed any time you are at the main menu.
DATE: Selecting Date displays several options in the Dialogue box.
These may be used to limit record selection by date. When "ALL" is
displayed, it actually means from 1/1/90 (the first year this product
was available for data entry) until the last time a record was added to
the data base or changed ("Last 9OCLOCK" or "Last 9OLOG" appearing at
the top of the screen, whichever is later).
"Change Start" and "Change End" adjust the the first date and
last date, respectively, of the records 9OLOG will find for editing,
printing, etc.
"Full File" returns you to the default condition of no date
restrictions (i.e., all record dates will be found).
"Last Date" limits record selection to the last date a record
was added to the data base or changed.
"Until" and "Since" are similar to the two "Change" features,
above. An example of usage would be to select "Since" and enter
January 1st of this year. This would set the Date Criterion to find
only records of the current year.
CODE: By selecting anything other than the default of "ALL", only
records which EXACTLY match this Criterion will be found. (To return to
unrestricted Code selection, type a literal "ALL".)
TAG STATUS: Similar to other programs with which you may be familiar,
"Tagging" a record simply means to TEMPORARILY mark it. This has no
affect on the permanent data stored on disk. It merely is a convenience
for data manipulation while within 9OLOG. Its use isn't essential to
running 9OLOG, but it offers a real "plus" to those who learn to use
it. When you exit the program or Zap (purge) inactive records, tags
"disappear."
The purpose of tagging is to group records which otherwise can't
be defined solely by other Selection Criteria. For example, to Print a
report for several records with unrelated Codes, you first would Tag
the desired records (with a feature of Browse, below) while Tag Status
is set to "ALL". Then, you would change the Tag Status Criterion to
TAGGED so 9OLOG only finds those records you tagged when it prints a
report.
Tag Status choices are TAGGED, UNTAGGED or ALL records. Default
is ALL.
If unfamiliar with tagging, at first it may be a small challenge.
(You might forget that you'd previously tagged some records, then tag
others without first untagging the previous set, resulting in a later
Print report containing BOTH sets of tagged records.) But once you've
grasped the technique, you'll find it invaluable.
Remember, you can immediately tell how many records are tagged or
whether you have previous records to untag by a glance at the number of
"Tags" noted near the top of the screen.
Note that, after using a Function, you may want to reset Tag
Status before performing another Function.
ACTIVE STATUS: The "active" status of a record reflects whether you
previously marked it for deletion. It operates similar to Tag Status,
with options of ACTIVE, INACTIVE or ALL records. Unlike Tag Status, the
default is ACTIVE, not all. (The only time you're likely to want to use
another Active Status is if you accidentally inactivated--deleted--a
record and want to change it back.) Another difference between Active
Status and Tag Status is that the active or inactive attribute is a
PERMANENT PART OF THE DATA FILE between 9OLOG sessions.
Print Options
These menu selections determine how reports are output when you use the
Print function. (They have no effect if you use a special print feature
from the Browse function menu which simply outputs the one record being
processed at the time.)
REPORT FORMAT: The two choices are COMBINED and INDIVIDUAL. The default
is COMBINED, which prints all records which match Selection Criteria in
ONE report. If set to INDIVIDUAL, the same records are printed as
SEPARATE reports, one record per report. (You might think of these as
"statements" vs. "bills," respectively.)
FORM STOCK: The two choices are CONTINUOUS and SINGLE SHEET. The
default of CONTINUOUS prints reports longer than a page without
prompting you to change paper. SINGLE SHEET pauses at the end of each
page (useful only when you don't have continuous fan-fold paper in the
printer).
Major Functions
BROWSE SELECTED RECORDS: This is the most powerful function of 9OLOG.
From the Browse menu you can directly manipulate all aspects of any
record. When you enter Browse mode, a menu appears in the Dialogue box
and the first record matching the current Record Selection Criteria
appears in the Current Record box. (If no matching record is found, an
error message is displayed. In that case, you probably will want to
revise Selection Criteria.)
Note that the main Browse menu has several "undocumented" navigation
keys in addition to those displayed. In particular, the Home key takes
you to the first matching record in the data base and sets Direction to
FORWARD. The End key takes you to the last matching record and sets
Direction to REVERSE. The cursor arrow keys, PgUp and PgDn move you ONE
record forward or backward, in the logical direction for the key
pressed. ENTER and SPACEBAR both move one record in the currently-
displayed Direction. (Note: Proper functioning of cursor keys requires
that your Num Lock key/light not be set on.)
The Browse features are:
"Forward" and "Reverse" set Direction to FORWARD or REVERSE,
respectively, and move one record in that Direction.
"Jump" lets you quickly skip over several records. You will be
prompted for the record number you want. If that particular record
doesn't match the Selection Criteria, you will be taken to the next
matching record (if any) in the current Direction PAST the number
requested. If you request an impossible number, Jump takes you to the
nearest matching record. (E.g., if your data base contains 100 records,
record 99 matches but record 100 doesn't and you enter 200, record 99
will be displayed.)
"Search" locates a record if you know almost anything about the
contents of any of its fields. Upper or lower case doesn't matter. You
needn't know the entire field, but what you enter must be EXACT. Let's
say you enter a search string of "100". This would find any record with
that string in any field. It also would find "1000" and "$ 100.50",
etc. TIP TO PROFESSIONAL VERSION USERS: When Searching for Rate or Bill
field data, we recommend that you NOT type the leading "$" symbol. If
you do, to create an exact match you must follow that symbol with the
precise number of blank spaces in a correctly matched string.
Note that Search begins at the current record and continues in
the current Direction. Like other Browse features, Search will only
find records matching current Selection Criteria. Note too that if your
data base is large it makes sense to move to a record you know is near
the one you want, ensure Direction is properly set, THEN use Search.
Jump moves instantly to a given record, while Search checks every
record along the way. (If you know the record is very recent, simply
press your End key to move to the last record and simultaneously set
Direction. Then use Search.)
"Again" is a shortcut method to continue the last Search request.
"Edit" displays a submenu from which you may edit any field in
the current record--or create an entirely new record. Note that if you
Edit the date or code field such that it no longer matches the current
Selection Criteria, when you move to another record you no longer will
be able to locate the edited record unless you change the Selection
Criteria. (If you use the feature to create a new record--also
available from the main menu's Utility function--it does NOT affect the
record you had been editing.)
"Active" and "Tag" let you toggle the current record between
active/inactive or tagged/untagged status, respectively. A couple of
important notes: You should use these features only after any other
Browse features you may want to use, as 9OLOG advances you to the next
matching record after toggling Active or Tag status. Secondly, if
toggling either status results in the record no longer matching the
current Selection Criteria, it will "disappear" until you change the
Criteria.
"Mass Tag" lets you tag or untag ALL records which match the
Selection Criteria.
"Print" outputs a report for the current record. Similar to the
Print Function from the main menu (see below), you will be prompted for
report formatting options.
PRINT SELECTED RECORDS: This main-menu Function prints all records
matching Selection Criteria using preferences you set with Print
Options (discussed earlier). It might be noted that the terminology
used in the main body of the report varies between versions. (For
example, what the PERSONAL version labels "Elapsed Time" the
PROFESSIONAL version calls "Billable Time.")
The overall tone of reports, however, is greatly impacted by an
entirely user-alterable page header, page footer and end-report
"appendix," if you keep a format file named 9OLOG.F01 in your Advocate
directory. A sample format file is supplied.
The format file contains three sections. If you request a report page
header in response to a Print function prompt, the first section is
printed on the top of every page of reports. If you request a page
footer, the second section is printed on the bottom of each page. If
you request the end-of-report text, the third section is printed on the
LAST page of the report.
After making these choices, you may enter up to six lines of free-form
text from the keyboard. If you do so, that text is placed on PAGE ONE,
below the page header.
Each format-file element can be used for any purpose you desire. Most
often, though, the page header will be used as a letterhead (plus
possibly "Statement" or the like for PROFESSIONAL version users). The
page footer might be additional letterhead information, or possibly a
note as in the sample file to "please pay Total on last page." The
last-page appendix might include "terms and conditions," a thank you,
etc. The free-form text on page one most likely is used for the address
of the recipient of the report. Or, it might be a quick report "title"
when the report is for personal use (e.g., "Current Year to Date").
With a little thought, you can come up with text for each of these
format items which can be "mixed and matched" for a variety of
purposes. For example, we ensure all essential information for ALL
reports is included in the page header and reserve the end-report text
for "legalese" which is output only for some clients but not for in-
house use or other clients.
Note that your choices about the header, footer, end-report text and
free-form text apply to all documents during the current execution of
the Print function. To vary format choices within a group of records,
you may need to Print more than one batch, each with its own Selection
Criteria and its own responses to the queries. If EVERY report will be
different (for example, you want a separate client address on each
report), the appropriate approach would be to set Selection Criteria,
then use the individual record Print feature within Browse.)
The current date and page number are automatically printed on each page
of reports.
If you NEVER expect to use the format file, rename the 9OLOG.F01 file
in your Advocate directory to a filename of your choice. If that file
isn't found, 9OLOG skips all formatting queries except the one for
free-form text.
Otherwise, you will want to edit the file. To do so, you must use a
word processor capable of standard ASCII output (i.e., without fancy
formatting codes). For WordStar users, this means using "Nondocument"
rather than "Document" mode from the main menu to open the file, or
using the ASCII printer driver. For WordPerfect users, it means
opening the file as usual but saving it to "DOS" format. Other users
should see their word processor manual or, if this is a registered copy
of 9OCLOCK, contact us as indicated in the last section.
Editing the file is exceptionally easy. And it is entirely free-form.
That is, you can design the header, etc., with text (or blank space)
anywhere in any of the three sections--and with whatever number of
lines you desire. Other than keeping track of the number of lines for
page-break purposes, 9OLOG doesn't get in your way by attempting to
"interpret" your desires. When you use your word processor on the
supplied copy of 9OLOG.F01, you will find that it contains concise
instructions.
[*P*] Note: Printout Totals (i.e., minimum and maximum values) can be
affected by a user-set Bill Range discussed under Utility Functions.
UTILITY FUNCTIONS: The following selections are offered from a submenu:
"Show Totals" tabulates and displays data for all records which
match the current Selection Criteria. [*P*] See Bill Range, below.
"Change Bill Range" lets you set minimum and maximum values for a
printed report or screen-displayed totaling. (If the "real" total falls
outside your range, "Minimum Bill" or "Maximum Bill" will be indicated
in the report or on the screen, as well as the actual minimum or
maximum value.) If you want "real" values, simply use 9OLOG's defaults
of $0.00 minimum and $2,000,000,000.00 maximum. You can "permanently"
change these defaults at any time by using the "Change Bill Range"
menu's Save feature. If you don't Save changes, they remain in effect
only until you leave the current session of 9OLOG.
"Export Data" lets you COPY current Selection Criteria records to
another file in a format compatible with virtually any word-processing,
data-processing or spreadsheet program for use by that program, if you
have a need to do so. (This isn't essential to operating 9OLOG. It is
purely a service to those desiring it.)
You may specify a new or an existing file. If the file exists,
you will be asked whether you want to overwrite it (WARNING: THIS
DELETES AND REPLACES THE EXISTING FILE), append to the end of it or
select a different name.
You must select the type of file format your external program
wants. The choices are "comma-delimited," "fixed-length" and "dBASE."
As a very general rule, word processors desire data for "mail-merge" or
"template" use in a "comma-delimited" format, while data-base and
spreadsheet programs somewhat more commonly prefer a "fixed-length"
format. Many programs of all kinds will accept dBASE-compatible files.
(See end of this section for technical considerations.)
"Inactivate" is a quick way to mark ALL records matching current
Selection Criteria as Inactive (deleted). It's very handy, but also
VERY POWERFUL--HANDLE WITH DUE CARE. Use it, for example, to delete all
records prior to the current month (or year, etc.). If you DO
inadvertently delete unintended records, you will have to set main-menu
Active Status to INACTIVE, then Browse and toggle the active status of
each record desired. You should do so immediately, and in any event
before you next Zap (purge) the data base (see below). If you haven't
regularly purged the data base, you could be in for a very long session
of selecting which records to return to Active status. The moral: This
is a wonderfully convenient function to use, but with great care.
"Make Record," like its counterpart in Browse mode, adds a NEW
record to the end of the data base. Perhaps you had a phone
consultation before you had a chance to turn on the computer today. Use
this function to include information about that call in the data base.
([*P*] Similar to 9OCLOCK, the bill amount is automatically calculated
when you have entered rate and elapsed time.)
ZAP INACTIVE RECORDS: Using this Function, ALL RECORDS PREVIOUSLY
MARKED AS INACTIVE WILL BE REMOVED FROM THE FILE. So again, proceed
with appropriate care. Note that, after purging, this Function resets
all remaining, active records to untagged status. So ensure all desired
actions on tagged records have been performed before using Zap.
But if you do mistakenly use this Function, all is not lost. If you
realize the error before the NEXT time you use this Function, add a
record or edit a record (with 9OCLOCK or 9OLOG) you can restore the
data base as follows: Exit 9OLOG, move to your Advocate directory and
COPY 9OCLOCK.BAK to 9OCLOCK.L01. Your data base will be exactly as
before you last used Zap.
Though you should use Zap with care, you should also use it REGULARLY.
Failure to do so will gradually make 9OLOG run slower and slower as it
wades through ancient, unused record again and again, all the while
occupying more and more disk space.
We suggest that, before the data base file reaches the size of
your floppy disk, you copy 9OCLOCK.L01 to a floppy and label the disk
with the current date. If the need later arises, you can temporarily
rename the CURRENT data file and copy an old version in its place.
9OLOG thus can retrieve archival data without maintaining it in the
currently active data file. (We suggest you perform the copying at a
fixed interval--once per month, four times per year or whatever
interval fits on a floppy. Shorten the interval if 9OLOG's performance
suffers before the data base fills your floppy.)
IMPORTANT: Especially if you don't have a hard drive, be SURE you
leave enough room on the drive containing your current data file for
the back-up file created by Zapping. If you don't, you'll have to
temporarily copy other files off the disk before Zapping and replace
them later.
QUIT: Exits 9OLOG. (Remember, the tagged status of records is lost.)
EXPORT FILE STRUCTURES
9OLOG can output selected records to a format usable by virtually any
word-processing, data-processing and spreadsheet programs if you desire
to use 9OCLOCK's data with other programs. The current discussion--of
necessity technical in nature--will assist you in determining which
export file format meets your needs and in preparing your external
application to best receive the data.
9OLOG export file formats include the two most common data file formats
used by microcomputer programs: "comma delimited" and "fixed length,"
as well as a direct dBASE-compatible format.
If you want to use 9OLOG's data with another application program that
accepts dBASE files, you may use that export option and may prefer to
ignore the rest of this section.
Read together with your data base or other program's manual, the
following normally will suffice to determine the appropriate export
format. Any further questions may be directed to your computer
specialist or dealer. Registered users of 9OCLOCK may also contact us
as indicated in the last section.
Comma-Delimited Format
Each field of a record is separated from the preceding and following
field by a comma. If a field CONTAINS a comma (in 9OLOG, only possible
in the Note field), that field is also placed between quotation marks
("). Each record is followed by a carriage return and linefeed (the
characters used to signify the end of a line). 9OLOG always strips any
TRAILING spaces from fields. Also, in the case of numeric fields (i.e.,
Rate and Billable Amount in the PROFESSIONAL version), all LEADING
spaces and dollar sign are stripped. Thus, by its very nature, the
length of fields and records in comma-delimited files varies. (In no
case is it longer than 82 characters for the PROFESSIONAL version or 84
characters for the PERSONAL version, including commas, line ends and
possible added quotation marks.) The order of fields is:
DATE
TIME
NOTE
CODE
RATE [*P*]
BILL [*P*]
Fixed-Length Format
Fixed-length records rely solely on the length of fields and records to
separate them: no field- or record-separating characters are used.
Proper lengths are achieved by filling any unused positions with
ordinary blank spaces (ASCII 20 hex). As a practical matter, there
never are unused spaces in 9OLOG date or time fields. Rate and Bill
fields [*P*] have the numbers "flush right" in the field. Code and Note
fields are filled with trailing spaces, if necessary.
Length of fields is as follows for PROFESSIONAL and PERSONAL versions:
Field Professional Version Personal Version
DATE 8 bytes 8 bytes
TIME 8 " 8 "
NOTE 35 " 53 "
CODE 6 " 6 "
RATE 6 " [does not apply]
BILL 8 " [does not apply]
-------------------- --------------------
Totals: 71 bytes 75 bytes
dBASE Format
The file structure is identical with the fixed-length format, above,
preceded with dBASE-compatible file "header" descriptor information.
Besides identifying field names and field lengths as indicated under
fixed-length format, the 9OLOG Date field is defined as a dBASE "date"
field type. Rate and Bill fields [*P*] are defined as dBASE "numeric"
fields with two decimal places. All other fields are defined as dBASE
"character/text" field type.
~ (Section 5)
<< SPECIAL CONDITIONS, ERROR MESSAGES, CAUTIONS >>
This section discusses problems, unusual conditions--and how to avoid
them before they occur. Though its highly unlikely you'll ever run into
most of the following conditions (and though we don't want to be
alarmist with these worst-case scenarios) we believe you'll value
having this information on hand as a precaution. Registered users who
encounter problems may contact Advocate Enterprises as noted in the
last section).
Each discussion indicates whether it refers to 9OCLOCK, 9OLOG or both.
Also, each is numbered (e.g., "[1]" or "[2.A]"). Many discussions have
similar sources of problems and/or solutions. These numbers are used to
reference information common to several questions to avoid extensive
repetition for clarity.
PRELIMINARY COMMENTS
When filenames are mentioned below, PERSONAL version users should
generally make the following substitutions (i.e., add a "P" to the main
portion of filenames):
Substitute: For: Examples:
9OCLOCKP 9OCLOCK 9OCLOCK.W01 becomes 9OCLOCKP.W01
9OLOGP 9OLOG 9OLOG.EXE becomes 9OLOGP.EXE
CONDITIONS & RESPONSES
[1] 9OCLOCK: "I just turned on the computer and a clock is running--and
shows 20 hours more than when I last ran 9OCLOCK!"
Remember, clocks stay ON until Paused, Reset or Filed (useful for
timing events away from the computer). Perform one of the above
functions.
[2] BOTH: "Some numbers on the screen or in the data base are
impossible . . . in fact WEIRD."
In the unlikely event this occurs, consider these possibilities:
[2.A] After activating a clock (whether currently running or
paused) you changed the system time/date without 9OCLOCK's knowledge.
Remember: If you need to reset the time or date, either do so BEFORE
loading 9OCLOCK for the day OR use the date/time function from
9OCLOCK's Utility menu.
If you've already created an error, you usually can correct it.
Use the OS Gateway (not Quit or TSR exit) and set the date/time BACK TO
ITS CONDITION BEFORE YOU CHANGED IT, WITH THE METHOD YOU USED TO CHANGE
IT, then return to 9OCLOCK and--if all's well--use 9OCLOCK's date/time
function. If worst comes to worst: If you haven't Filed any erroneous
clocks, simply Globally Reset clocks, set the time/date and start
anew. If you have Filed erroneous clocks, you may need to Edit them
with 9OLOG. If Global Reset still doesn't correct the problem, delete
the 9OCLOCK work file (see [2.C] below).
[2.B] Your computer isn't sufficiently "IBM-compatible," you're
using an incompatible replacement operating system for MS-DOS or PC-
DOS, or some other program isn't "playing fair" with low-level elements
of your system. To perform all of its sophisticated functions without
hindering the efficiency of your system, 9OCLOCK.EXE in some cases must
presume that various system data are where they should be in memory and
read them directly rather than more politely (but far more slowly)
requesting the data from the operating system.
But before assuming the worst, try removing various TSRs, device
drivers, etc. If the problem disappears, one of those external factors
is the problem. Sometimes, you can retain them anyway by reloading TSRs
in a different order or otherwise altering your past procedures.
(Generally, loading 9OCLOCK AFTER software which isn't playing fair
works best.) Your computer specialist or Advocate Enterprises can help.
[2.C] A 9OCLOCK file has been corrupted. This could mean a bad or
full disk, a full root directory (if you manually installed the root
directory as your Advocate directory) or possibly a time/date error as
noted above. If your problem is in 9OCLOCK itself, delete file
9OCLOCK.W01 in your Advocate directory. If your problem is in 9OLOG,
copy file 9OCLOCK.BAK over 9OCLOCK.L01. If this doesn't help, you may
need to remove some files or copy good files to a new disk. For less-
experienced users, contacting your computer specialist (or Advocate
Enterprises, if you have a registered copy) may be necessary.
[2.D] You installed your Advocate directory on a floppy disk
which was present when you began running 9OLOG but it was then removed.
As noted, the programs must have access to its directory at ALL times
you are actively using them. Put in the correct disk IMMEDIATELY and
exit the program expeditiously. Rerun the program and see if all is
well. If not, copy file 9OCLOCK.BAK over 9OCLOCK.L01. Use all files on
BOTH disks you had in the drive with great caution; you may have
corrupted any of them. You should never change disks while ANY program
is running unless advised to do so. This thoroughly confuses your
operating system and can corrupt disks in random-appearing ways.
[3] 9OCLOCK: "Utility Options changed!"
9OCLOCK.EXE can't find its work file, or it was corrupted. Never
rename 9OCLOCK files except as noted in the "PERSONAL VS. PROFESSIONAL
VERSION" discussion in Section 1, or the programs won't be able to find
them. If only Options Settings are corrupted, use the Utility function
to re-enter them. (If clock data, too, are corrupted, delete a file as
indicated in Section 4.)
See also the floppy-disk discussion in [2.D], above.
[4] BOTH: "Data mysteriously disappeared."
See [3], above.
[5] 9OCLOCK: "The Database or OS Gateway function doesn't work."
[5.A] If "[Function currently unavailable]" appears next to the
function which isn't working, this is normal. 9OCLOCK has sensed
activity by your operating system which makes it unsafe to use a
gateway function from within a TSR such as 9OCLOCK. Simply use the TSR
function, then run the desired command from the operating system prompt
. . . or try again from 9OCLOCK's menu later when this message isn't
present.
[5.B] If neither of these functions is currently operable and the
above message isn't displayed, either you don't have sufficient memory
at the moment to run the desired command or the operating system itself
is unable to comply. Proceed as above. (Note: Both functions require
use of your operating system's COMMAND.COM program. It was present when
9OCLOCK was loaded but no longer is. If you are using a floppy-drive-
only system, you probably removed the disk containing your Advocate
directory, which if properly installed contains a copy of COMMAND.COM.
If your Advocate directory is on a hard disk, ensure that you didn't
accidentally erase it.)
[5.C] If only the Database function is inoperable, 9OLOG was
renamed or moved from the installed Advocate directory. Rename to the
name as received (see Section 1). If you want to make a different
directory your Advocate directory, reinstall the files from the
original disk (see Section 1), THEN COPY all files from your old
Advocate directory to the new directory.
[6] 9OCLOCK: "The Utility Options box shows my proper hotkey, but using
it doesn't work."
[6.A] 9OCLOCK wasn't exited as a TSR or was disabled by another
program. (Try reloading 9OCLOCK. If an earlier copy is still in memory,
it will tell you.)
[6.B] If the 9OCLOCK "warble" sounds when re-entry is denied,
either the Utility function's COM: REENTRY option is set to Restricted
and a later program has redirected a COM: port, or a foreground program
is in graphics rather than text display mode. If COM: REENTRY is set to
Restricted, you may exit your foreground application, then use your
Hotkey. (You also may at that time consider implementing Unrestricted
status if you feel confident in doing so. Note related discussion in
Section 3!) If your program is using a nontext display mode, you must
change that mode or exit the foreground application before entering
9OCLOCK. (Popping up a TSR program over a graphic display would disrupt
that display.)
[6.C] If reentry was denied without a "warble" and you've
determined 9OCLOCK in fact is loaded (see [6.A]), your system may have
been performing some critical task (such as saving a file to disk)
which 9OCLOCK knows it shouldn't endanger. Normally, such a condition
disappears promptly. Try again in a moment. (And be sure you haven't
forgotten your selected Hotkey, or that it wasn't previously "lost" by
a corrupted file as discussed in [2.C] and [3], above. As indicated, a
corrupted, deleted or renamed work file will cause Utility Options to
revert to the conditions present when you first received the program,
including a Hotkey of the "Alt" plus LEFT "Shift" keys.)
[6.D] The TSR Hotkey has no effect while using 9OCLOCK's Database
or OS Gateway function. (You're actually still "in" 9OCLOCK when you
use these functions to run an external program. To return to the main
menu you must first finish the current function.)
[6.E] An external program may not be playing fair with the
operating system. See [2.B], above.
[7] 9OLOG: "I just ZAPPED records I still need. Help!"
If you haven't yet used the Zap function again, haven't edited or
added a record--with either program--you can fully recover by COPYing
the back-up file 9OLOG saved just for this situation. See discussion on
Zap Function in Section 4.
[8] 9OLOG: "Using the program seems to be getting S-L-O-W-E-R."
It probably is . . . if you aren't periodically archiving and
deleting ancient, unused data. The cure is as simple as carefully
Zapping such data . . . freeing a lot of disk space in the process.
(See discussion on Zap Function in Section 4 for more details.)
[9] BOTH: "I was using 9OLOG with 9OCLOCK already in TSR mode. I tried
unsuccessfully to 'hotkey' back. What gives?"
Both programs can't access the same data concurrently without
hopelessly confusing your operating system. If 9OCLOCK "knows" you're
using 9OLOG, it will ignore your Hotkey request. If it doesn't know
(i.e., you entered 9OLOG from the operating system rather than from
within 9OCLOCK), as forewarned you can expect the worst. Your system
may "hang" (i.e., force you to reboot), and your 9OCLOCK data base may
become corrupted. (If data appear corrupted, see discussion about
copying the backup file over the current data base file in [2.D],
above.)
ERROR MESSAGES DISPLAYED DURING PROGRAM EXECUTION
Insufficient memory
[10] BOTH: Other programs are demanding almost all available memory.
Remove some and retry.
Product improperly installed
[11] BOTH: See Section 1 for correct installation procedures. Also, be
sure your operating system's COMMAND.COM file hasn't been removed,
renamed or moved since you loaded the program. (See [5.B], above.)
Environment variable too long
[12] BOTH: You manually installed 9OCLOCK and entered a SET command
specifying an Advocate directory PATH longer than 64 bytes. Or, a later
program corrupted the "environment variables" maintained in memory. Ask
your computer specialist to track down the errant program if the
problem persists--if following your normal procedures to turn off your
computer and starting anew doesn't help.
File I/O error
[13] BOTH: The operating system reported it failed to create, read or
write a file. If this is an "unessential" file (such as an Export
file), the program will provide a message, then permit you to continue
with other work. If the file is critical (such as a 9OCLOCK data base
file), it will report the error and quit. The program will attempt to
remedy the situation as far as practical (such as deleting the problem
file and/or replacing it with a back-up file).
In the case of a critical file: After exiting the program, try
rerunning it and see if all is well. (Data may need to be updated
manually with program functions.) If unsuccessful, see the procedures
on deleting and renaming files under [2.C], above. Also, ensure that
your disk isn't full and run a disk diagnostics program (or have your
computer specialist do so). If you installed the root directory as your
Advocate directory, you may have too many files in it. (That's the only
directory which has a fixed maximum number of files, the number varying
among hardware.) Lastly, if your Advocate directory is on a floppy
disk, see [2.D], above.
File I/O error messages should be attended to immediately. Even
if they involved "unimportant" files, they may indicate conditions
which could corrupt more important files at any time. We recommend that
you contact your computer expert before further work with 9OLOG or
other programs.
Error writing to file [filename]
[14] 9OCLOCK: A more specific "file I/O" error message. If the message
states the problem is the work file (9OCLOCK.W01), delete it if 9OCLOCK
was unable to do so itself, re-enter 9OCLOCK and if the Utility Options
have changed, re-enter them. A new work file will automatically be
created.
If the problem is the permanent log file (9OCLOCK.L01), be SURE
to delete it. Rename the 9OCLOCK.BAK file in your Advocate directory to
9OCLOCK.L01. You may need to use 9OLOG's Create function to manually
re-enter some data. As noted earlier, consider the possibility of disk
or system problems requiring possible corrective action.
Operating system unable to save permanent options file
[15] 9OLOG: Another more specific "file I/O" error message. The changes
you made from the Utilities menu which you wanted to make "permanent"
will only be available to you during the current session; you will have
to reset them, if desired, in future sessions. Other than that, no
immediate adverse consequences are involved. However, as noted above
you should consider disk or system problems before they more seriously
threaten your data base and other files.
Can't install as TSR...
[16] 9OCLOCK: This message is accompanied by one of three phrases:
"Requires DOS 2.0 or higher" You have a very old version of your
operating system which isn't compatible with TSR programs.
"No free user interrupts" At the moment, all of your operating
system's user interrupt vectors (a technical subject) are being used by
other programs. Remove any unneeded programs from memory, then reload
9OCLOCK. If this doesn't help, shut down your computer as usual, then
restart it with less TSRs or other programs in memory.
"Unspecified error" Your operating system refused to accept the
request to install 9OCLOCK as a TSR. Ask your consultant about
replacing the copy of your operating system from your back-up disks. Or
contact us with all available details.
Program already in memory
[17] 9OCLOCK: You've already loaded 9OCLOCK as a TSR. Follow screen
instructions to exit the second copy and access the first.
This function repeats search....No prior request made
[18] 9OLOG: You used the Again feature before using the Search feature.
The purpose of Again is to continue the current search.
No matching records available
No records...match...Selection Criteria
[19] 9OLOG: Various versions of these messages appear when you've
initiated a function which, while performing, didn't encounter a (or
another) valid record on which to act.
First, check the Current Selection Criteria to ensure you've
really defined the records on which you want to perform the function.
Next, you may have altered a record which HAD matched those
Criteria but no longer does. (The most obvious example is that you may
have inactivated a record but have Criteria set to ACTIVE ONLY.) You
may have to exit Browse mode and alter Selection Criteria.
You may have moved past the last Criteria-MATCHING record in the
currently-selected Direction. Reversing the Direction may locate the
desired record.
End date cannot precede begin date
[20] 9OLOG: You used the Date function and entered an end date which
precedes the current begin date, or a begin date which follows the end
date. Either retry or use a different option to change the begin date
(if entering the end date caused the error) or vice versa.
User abort
[21] 9OLOG: You pressed ESCape (generally during printing). This
strictly speaking isn't an error. But the message is displayed as an
advisory.
Select record before printing
[22] 9OLOG: You used the Print feature from the Browse menu at a time
when no record currently was displayed. Select the desired record
first.
Printer not ready
[23] 9OLOG: Your printer isn't ready or was redirected by a prior
program. 9OLOG will wait until you're ready, or you may abort.
Insufficient memory for Tagging
[24] 9OLOG: Each time you run 9OLOG or change the size of its data file
(such as when you Create a new record), the program calculates how much
memory is needed to hold information on the tagged status of each
record. Insufficient memory currently exists. You may proceed with all
functions except tagging. If this condition persists, should Inactivate
and Zap unneeded records to improve program efficiency and reclaim disk
space.
Abnormal program termination
Divide error
[25] BOTH: The program encountered an unknown, fatal error. Make a
fresh copy of the affected program from your original disk to your
Advocate directory, then attempt to run the identical series of
commands that led to the error. If the problem repeats itself, follow
your usual procedures to turn off your computer, restart it and repeat
the identical series of commands. In the unlikely event the problem
persists, please report full details to Advocate Enterprises and we
will investigate. If we determine the problem is in the program, we
will provide you with a revised copy at no charge. In the meantime, you
may want to consult your computer specialist or repair shop. These
messages represent serious problems that almost surely aren't caused by
a program which has undergone the extensive testing we and our test
sites have conducted. More likely, the problem is a system error in
your hardware or software. Your consultant should be able to diagnose
such problems.
[Various]
[26] BOTH: Your operating system may report various problems (such as
insufficient memory to even start the program at the moment). See your
operating system manual or consultant for details of any messages not
listed above. If not found, contact us. (In exceptional cases, some
such messages can even appear while a program is running.)
~ (Section 6)
<< USER-ADDED INFORMATION >>
Authorized distributors and registered end users may add notes and
other information for their purposes here. Begin by following a basic
computer precaution of editing ONLY a back-up copy of this file. A word
processor capable of ASCII output must be used. (For WordStar, select
"Nondocument" rather than normal "Document" mode from its main menu to
open your file. WordPerfect users: Open the file as usual, but save the
output file in "DOS" format. Others: See your word processor's manual.)
IMPORTANT: All text MUST remain below "<< USER-ADDED INFORMATION >>"
and above the (undisplayed) "~ (Section 7)" to avoid potential adverse
effects when this file is later executed with the HELP program.
~ (Section 7)
<< LICENSE AGREEMENT, CREDITS & DISCLAIMER >>
9OCLOCK.EXE, 9OCLOCKP.EXE, 9OLOG.EXE, 9OLOGP.EXE, 9OHELP.EXE,
AEORDER.EXE, AEORDER.HLP, AEHELP.EXE, AHDINSTL.COM and MAINHELP.HLP and
all accompanying materials (together referred to as "9OCLOCK" below)
are copyright (c) 1986-90, J.W. Olsen / Advocate Enterprises, Ltd., all
rights reserved. 9OHELP is a dedicated version of HELP.EXE, copyright
(c) 1986-89, J.W. Olsen / Advocate Enterprises, Ltd., all rights
reserved. A full-featured version is available for sale ($20 at this
writing), accompanied by instructions to easily create unlimited help
files on any topics for use in your office or home with an ordinary
word processor.
By use of 9OCLOCK, user agrees to all terms and conditions
within this section, which constitute our full agreement.
J.W. Olsen / Advocate Enterprises, Ltd. has taken due care in preparing
9OCLOCK. However, no expressed or implied warranty of accuracy,
reliability or suitability for any specific purpose or use is made. In
no event shall J.W. Olsen / Advocate Enterprises, Ltd. be liable for
damages, including incidental or consequential damages, connected
with or arising from furnishing, performance, support or use of
9OCLOCK.
Upon payment of the registration licensing fee, J.W. Olsen / Advocate
Enterprises, Ltd., will provide the latest version of 9OCLOCK (PERSONAL
or PROFESSIONAL, depending upon which is registered), reasonable
telephone and modem access support, as well as notification of certain
future updates and access to same for copying/mailing charges only ($10
as of this writing).
You agree not to distribute any registered (as opposed to shareware or
demo) version of 9OCLOCK without the expressed, written
permission of the copyright holder. Unregistered users of any
version may not use them for financial gain, and in any event may not
use them beyond a reasonable period sufficient to evaluate them without
registering and obtaining an authorized license. Others may use them
AT ONE SITE or BY ONE INDIVIDUAL, but NOT BOTH, unless authorization
to the contrary has been expressly provided in writing by J.W. Olsen /
Advocate Enterprises, Ltd. Subject to the other terms and conditions,
users are authorized to make sufficient copies of registered copies of
9OCLOCK for normal use by the one individual or at the one site.
Users who have received a complimentary copy of the registered 9OCLOCK
version may not sell or otherwise transfer it to another party. Other
users may transfer 9OCLOCK (original disks only, in the case of
registered copies) to another party, provided such users and said
other party agree to all terms and conditions herein, and in all cases
provided all 9OCLOCK materials are transferred together and without
alteration. Further, by transfer of any copy of 9OCLOCK, the former
licensee agrees to promptly relinquish any right to further possession,
use or ownership of said copy and all duplicates made from same.
For further information and order form (including bulk rates and
distributorships), see the accompanying AEORDER program, or contact:
J.W. OLSEN / ADVOCATE ENTERPRISES, LTD.
117 W. Harrison Building
6th Floor Mail Stop A-408
Chicago, IL 60605
312/939-3300 (voice)
312/939-4411 (24-hr. modem telecommunications)
Credits:
9OCLOCK, "9 O'CLOCK, The Complete Time-Tracking System," "9 O'CLOCK
PROFESSIONAL," "9 O'CLOCK PERSONAL," 9OLOG, "9OLOG, The 9 O'CLOCK Data
Base Manager," 9OHELP, AEORDER and AEHELP are trademarks of J.W. Olsen
/ Advocate Enterprises, Ltd. dBASE is a registered trademark of Ashton-
Tate. IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines.
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