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PC-KEY-DRAW
A KEYBOARD TO SCREEN GRAPHICS PROGRAM
FOR THE IBM PC and COMPATIBLES
Version 3.0
(C)Copyright OED, 1984
Edward H. Kidera IV
OEDWARE
P.O. Box 595
Columbia, MD 21045-0595
Portions copyright International Business Machines
Portions copyright Microsoft, Inc.
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY
THIS SOFTWARE AND MANUAL ARE SOLD "AS IS" AND WITHOUT WARRANTIES
AS TO PERFORMANCE OF MERCHANTABILITY OR ANY OTHER WARRANTIES
WHETHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. BECAUSE OF THE VARIOUS HARDWARE
AND SOFTWARE ENVIRONMENTS INTO WHICH THIS PROGRAM MAY BE PUT, NO
WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE IS OFFERED.
GOOD DATA PROCESSING PROCEDURE DICTATES THAT ANY PROGRAM BE
THOROUGHLY TESTED WITH NON-CRITICAL DATA BEFORE RELYING ON IT.
THE USER MUST ASSUME THE ENTIRE RISK OF USING THE PROGRAM. ANY
LIABILITY OF THE SELLER WILL BE LIMITED EXCLUSIVELY TO PRODUCT
REPLACEMENT.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION........................................ 1
HISTORY............................................. 2
OPERATION THEORY.................................... 4
COMMAND SUMMARY..................................... 7
Cursor Mode..................................... 7
F1 Drawing Modifications....................... 9
F2 Boxes and Figures........................... 10
F3 Curves...................................... 11
F4 Spraypainting & Shading..................... 12
F5 Paint....................................... 13
F6 Draw & Text................................. 14
F7 Copy, Erase, & Move......................... 15
F8 Files....................................... 16
Zoom printing............................... 17
F9 Speed....................................... 18
F10 Color....................................... 18
Drawing Techniques.................................. 19
Directives, Functions, & WTD........................ 21
Appendix............................................ 34
I: User Supported Software........................ 34
Invoice........................................ 36
II: Start Up....................................... 37
III: Program Files.................................. 39
IV: Improvements & Additions of Version 3.0........ 40
V: Creating 35mm Slides From Your Graphics........ 44
VI: Dateit......................................... 48
PC-KEY-DRAW
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to PC-KEY-DRAW! You are about to encounter one of the
most powerful graphics programs available for the IBM PC and
compatibles.
PC-KEY-DRAW is a graphics package that can be used by anyone and
everyone. It includes many features designed specifically for a
mechanical engineer, such as calculate and measure. It also
includes many features designed specifically for artists, such as
pattern fill and area smear. Its ability to create symbol
libraries is ideal for the electrical engineer or the architect.
Those into needle craft will find that the drawing capabilities
combined with the zoom printer feature allow interesting patterns
to be designed on the computer and readily transferred in a form
suitable of sowing from. Graphic game designers can use the
drawing abilities along with the ability to save an image as a
BASICA subroutine to create graphics ideal for animation.
Teachers will find the geometry aspects of the program useful in
the math and science class room. Business people can create eye
catching slides for presentations using such features as slide
and text fonts.
This manual is a greatly shorten version of the actual manual.
The complete manual is available only by registering the program.
OPERATION THEORY
PC-KEY-DRAW is a very comprehensive graphics system. Its large
number of commands may tend to intimidate the initial user if
he/she does not fully understand the basic program philosopy. The
first thing to remember is that in creating anyone particular
drawing only a handful of the programs commands will be used.
Don't feel that you have to learn everything from the start.
Begin with the basics and build from there. As you become more
proficient at creating graphics you may realize the need for an
automated way of performing a particular task. Chances are
PC-KEY-DRAW already has the feature just waiting to be used. For
instance, creating presentation slides for a business meeting may
involve placing significant portions of text on the screen so
that it is centered. Manually moving the text into place is slow
so an automatic centering feature is included.
The program is designed to be run from the keyboard. Version 3.0
also allows a mouse mode of operation with click to select on
pull down menus. Contrary to what you might think the keyboard
method is an excellent way to run a graphics program. The trained
user can create all sorts of drawings quickly. You do not have to
waste time clicking through a series of menus as with most other
graphics programs, unless you want to. Keyboard input also means
you don't have to have extra equipment cluttering up your desk.
When running PC-KEY-DRAW from the keyboard the left hand is used
to select the various function keys and make other selections.
The right hand is used to operate the cursor keys and the
<ENTER>/<RETURN> key and to help in selecting commands. A variety
of commands are available from the cursor mode. These are
commands that control general program operation and features that
are common to all of the main drawing functions. The function
keys are used to select the area of drawing to use next. The
function keys are used to combine commands that are similar to
each other. F1 is for modification, in that its commands are
used to modify objects or the screen. F2 is for creating boxes
and other straight line figures, such as polygons. F3 is for
generating a variety of curved lines. F4 is for shading and
spraypaint. F5 paints areas and modifies existing colors. It also
controls the palette and background. F6 draws lines and adds text
to the screen. F7 allows portions of the screen to be copied,
saved, erased or moved. F8 handles files. F9 sets the speed of
the cursor. F10 sets the color to be used by the majority of
functions.
Basics:
Items enclosed with < and > are commands that are entered via the
keyboard using the appropriate letter/key.
Items enclosed with [ and ] are commands that will be taken as
the default if <ENTER> is selected.
Prompts that start with "Enter" require user input followed by a
<ENTER>. Other prompts need only a single key to initiate.
When a function is selected a list of possible commands are
provided on the prompt line. More information is available by
using the cursor keys. Functions can be selected by entering the
appropriate letter and Shft, Ctrl, or Alt as needed. Or the
<ENTER> key can be hit to select the displayed command. Note that
the commands are case sensitive. A lowercase "m" is different
from an uppercase "M" in its effect, but they both have the same
basic meaning. Consider F7 which allows 4 different ways to move
an object to the screen. All of them are a type of move so that
"m" is appropriate, but to differentiate between the different
moves a "m" is used either alone or with the Shift, Ctrl, or Alt
keys. Not every command has four levels to it. Those commands
that have more then one level are designated on the prompt line
by the letter followed by a ".".
There are two basic types of function commands, those that act on
an object and those that act on the entire screen. For commands
that act on the entire screen the action is started by selecting
the appropriate command and following any prompts. When the
action is complete the program will ask if the result was correct
before saving it to the drawing you are working on. Commands that
work on an object require that you first define the object by
enclosing it in a box, then selecting <ENTER>. Some object
functions can be color specific, ie only the color set by <F10>
will be acted on. If a function does not appear to work, it maybe
that the color was improperly set.
It is somewhat easier to learn PC-KEY-DRAW by working in the high
resolution mode. This is because the prompt line allows 80
columns as compared to 40 in the medium/color mode. The 80
columns allow additional information to be displayed. Virtually
all functions available in color are available in high resolution
and vice versa. Pull down menus have also been added to aid
learning the program as they display extra information.
APPENDIX I: USER-SUPPORTED SOFTWARE
This software is being distributed under the User-Supported
Concept. Individuals, clubs and other non-profit organizations
are encouraged to copy this software and distribute it to members
and friends, provided no price other than the cost of a diskette
is charged, the receiver is informed of the User-Supported
Software concept and encouraged to participate, and the program
and documentation are not modified in any way. The printed
documentation should not be copied! or distributed.
If an individual finds the program of use, he is trusted to send
in a $100 payment to:
Edward H. Kidera IV
OEDWARE
P.O. Box 595
Columbia, MD 21045-0595
If the software is not of use to you, you should discontinue its
use, but please pass it along to friends for their evaluation.
What constitutes "use" of a program is a good question. Trying the
program to see what it does is not using the program. Creating
drawings or other graphics is using the program. Even if you only
use the program on weekends, or evenings, you are still using it
and should register. Some people seem to think that they must use
PC-KEY-DRAW every day to constitute "use", but this is not fair to
me.
If you create any screens that you feel will be a particular use
to others, please send in a copy for evaluation. A swap list of
screen libraries will be created and sent to registered users on
a periodic basis.
Registered owners will receive periodic updates for a minimal
charge and will receive a phone number for fast response to
questions. I have many future improvements and companion programs
planned. Please support my effort by registering. Updates to
registered users will never be more than $10.00, no matter how
substaintial the change is.
Many more people have a copy of the program then are registered.
I tend to get inquiries from people for help that have not
registered. Initially I tended to provide any and all information
to those inquiring, but soon found that it was taking up my time
with NO return. Most of the questions are simple and straight
forward, while others can be long and extensive. If you have a
simple question question, like does the program work with an XYZ
computer, I will be glad to let unregistered users know what I
know. If your question is significant like how do I integrate
drawings into a BASICA program, then unless you are a registered
user do not expect much of an answer. If you make use of
PC-KEY-DRAW, please register.
User Supported Software should be very popular with most PC
users. It means that the software is not copyprotected making
backup easy and use with a hard disk or RAM disk a snap. It also
allows you to try before you buy to see if the program actually
does what it says it does. User Supported Software will only
continue if you the user does support it. Another advantage to
User Supported Software is price. PC-KEY-DRAW is well worth the
registration price. Many of its features can not be found for
under $500 in commercial software and some cannot be touched for
under $1500. The final advantage to User Supported Software is my
commitment to expanding and improving the program.
IBM PC,XT (tm) are trademarks of International Business Machines,
EPSON(tm) is a trademark of Epson America, Inc., Plug'N Play(tm)
and Okidata(tm) are the trademarks of Okidata, Columbia MPC/VP
are the trademarks of Columbia Data Products.
INVOICE
DATE OF ORDER ORDER NUMBER
DATE OF INVOICE
DATE OF SHIPMENT
TO:
__________________________________________________________
: QTY : DESCRIPTION :UNIT :EXTENSION:
:______:______________________________:_________:_________:
: : : : :
: : PC-KEY-DRAW Version 3.0 : $100.00 : :
: : : : :
: : : : :
: 1-2 : 0% Discount : : :
: 3-10 : 20% Discount : : :
:10-19 : 40% Discount : : :
: 20+ : Call for Discount : : :
: : : : :
: : Extra Manual : 15.00 : :
:______:______________________________:_________:_________:
SUB TOTAL
Maryland Residents add TAX 5%
SHIPPING 0.00
TOTAL DUE
Send Check or Money Order to: Edward H. Kidera IV, OEDWARE, P.O.
Box 595, Columbia, MD 21045-0595
APPENDIX II: START UP
Load DOS into your computer. PC-KEY-DRAW requires DOS 2.0 or
later.
If your system has more than 192K of RAM memory available, set up
a ram disk of at least 40K for the program workspace. You may
want to add an AUTOEXEC.BAT file to load the ram disk at start
up. (RAM disk software is not included)
Place a formatted DS/DD diskette in drive B: and the original in
drive A:. Copy the original diskette onto B: and store the
original in a safe place. While you are at it, make a copy or two
for friends. See your DOS manual for information on formating and
copying disks. Copys of PC-KEY-DRAW for other than your personal
use should not include the BASRUN.EXE file as this is copyrighted
by IBM and they are not as liberal as I am in their distribution
policy. KD-COPY.BAT is included to produce a copy of the program
without the BASRUN module.
If printing of the drawings on to a Epson or compatible printer
is desired load GRAPHICS.COM (DOS 2.0). Note that GRAPHICS.COM
will also work with other versions of DOS.
Insert program diskette in drive A:
Type KD to load and run.
Configuration parameters will be displayed. If these are
incorrect select <Ctrl-s> for status and configure the program.
The program should be configured to your system and needs
including the drive for the workspaces (RAM disk if you have it),
update frequency, and drive for storing completed drawings.
Generally this configuration needs only to be done once, but it
can be done when ever required by system changes. Store the
configuration to disk with <Ctrl-s>.
A demo program is included to act as a tutorial and demonstration
of what the program can do. The demo program is actually a key
macro created simply by drawing with the program. To run the demo
be sure you are in the high resolution mode and that the program
has been configured to match the drives you have available.
Select <Alt-k> and <r>un A:SAMPLE. Sit back and watch the
action. <Esc> can be used to exit the demo at anytime.
APPENDIX III: PROGRAM FILES
The following list of files are needed for PC-KEY-DRAW. Check the
disk in DOS by using the directory command (DIR) to see that all
of the files are included. If you do not have a complete set the
program may not operate to its fullest. Anyone distributing this
program to friends, please be sure to include all files.
KD-READ .ME This is the basic information to get you
started with the program. (This file)
KD .BAT Batch file to run PC-KEY-DRAW
COPYWORK.BAT Batch file for copying only PC-KEY-DRAW
files
DRAW .EXE Main program for creating graphics
KD-DRAW .DFT Program configuration parameters
KD-DRAW .TXT Text file for program
KD-STAT .DAT Status screen for KD-DRAW
KD-DRAW .HLP Help file for use in program
KD-PAINT.PIC PIC file containing painting options
KD-PTRN .PIC PIC file containing 64 fill patterns.
KD-PRNT?.TBL Configuration tables for zoom printing
DATEIT .EXE Replaces DOS date function
DATEIT .DAT File of last date entered
BASRUN .EXE BASICA runtime module needed for program
Do not distribute this file!!!
APPENDIX IV: IMPROVEMENTS AND ADDITIONS OF VERSION 3.0
There are many changes and improvements found in version 3.0 over
all earlier versions. Those users that are familiar with earlier
versions of PC-KEY-DRAW will find it friendlier and much more
powerful. Those using PC-KEY-DRAW for the first time will enjoy
its many features and ease of operation. The differences in the
versions fall into three categories. The first differences
involves changes made to the basic operation. The second area the
versions differ is in the number of features available. Many new
features have been added. The third area is improvement in user
friendliness, without any sacrifice in speed or performance.
CHANGES:
1. The zoom printer program has been integrated into the main
drawing program for ease of use and thus ZPRINTER.EXE has been
eliminated.
2. The main menu and slide show have been eliminated.
Significantly more powerful slide shows can be developed using
the key macro command of the drawing program than were
possible with the old slide show.
3. The configuration portion of the program has likewise been
integrated into the main drawing program allowing access at
any time. The printer configuration is also part of the
program configuration.
4. The F8 and F10 function keys have been swapped to improve
operation. Heavy users of 2.21 may take sometime to fully
adjust to this switch.
5. The file structure of vector saves in F6 has been changed for
a significant improvement in power and flexibility. The
additional features this provides are discussed in the next
section. A BASICA program is provide to aid converting
existing symbol librarys that you may have created with
version 2.21 to version 3.0 format. Converting from 3.0 to
2.21 is not possible.
6. The manual is no longer included on the disk and is
copyrighted and should not be copied or distributed.
ADDITIONS:
CURSOR MODE:
1. Multiple pages with up to 64 pages on an 8X8 layout or
multiple layers (overlays) up to 64.
2. Autocentering of animated objects.
3. Mouse operation for cursor movement and ability to point and
choose commands if desired.
4. Show feature to quickly clear screen of everything except the
picture you are working on.
5. Grid available as points or lines in a separate layer.
6. Choice of three cursor styles to suite every drawing taste.
7. Width setting for lines, circles, rectangles, etc.
8. Key macro command for remembering and playing back key
sequences used to creat a drawing. This feature has many
applications including slide show creation, macro creation,
drawing saves and more. Several other commands have been added
to compliment the key macro.
9. The visual horizon can be set to limit the cursor movement.
This is primarily used when animating to allow the animated
object to disappear behind an object on the screen.
F1 Modifications:
1. Calculation of centers, areas and mass have been moved from
zoom printer for easy access.
2. Flip/compress works on objects as well as the screen.
3. A FATBITS mode of zooming is now available allowing work on
up to eight screens simultaneously.
4. Sliding of objects and screens.
5. Object zoom allows zooming in steps for great 3-D effects on
titles, etc.
F2 Boxes:
1. Polygons of any number of sides can be quickly and easily
drawn. Polygons are displayed as they are be sized and placed
on the screen.
2. Arrows have been moved to F2 from F6.
F3 Curves:
1. Arcs are displayed as they are drawn to aid proper placement.
2. Pie shaped pieces can be generated automatically.
3. Circle and ellipse center marks for engineering drawings can
be created automatically.
4. Fillets are formed automatically.
5. Rose curves and spirals are available.
6. Sine curves can be quickly drawn and sized dynamically.
F4 Shading:
1. A fade function works by color or all colors.
F5 Paint:
1. Enclosed areas can be painted with one of 29 colors in medium
resolution, or one of 29 shades in high resolution.
2. Any of the 29 screen colors can be modified to another color.
3. Foreground colors can be shifted up by one.
4. Foreground colors can be stripped out.
F6 Draw:
1. Line drawing has been greatly expanded. Vector objects can be
created and saved using line, parallel lines, spoke lines,
and dots with variable color and width.
2. Text can be automatically justified left, right or centered.
3. Text can be automatically imported to animate to aid in
placement.
4. Multiple bitmapped text fonts can be used. Text fonts are
created with any and all program functions and saved with F7.
Two text fonts are supplied with 3.0.
F7 Copy & Erase:
1. Circular areas can be erased.
2. Fonts can be saved for retrieval with F6.
3. Horizontal lines can be inserted or deleted.
F8 Files:
1. Disk files can be brought in sequentially for viewing.
F9 Speed:
1. Speed set is remembered.
IMPROVED USER FRIENDLINESS:
Many features have been added to make the program easier and
faster to use. Many functions now remember the last entry. For
example when a file is retrieved from disk its name is remembered
allowing a quick save under the same name. When parameters such
as screen aspect ratio are set the last entry is kept unless
specifically changed.
The appearance of brackets ([ ]) enclosing an entry indicate that
it is the default taken if an <ENTER> is hit.
Two modes of operation are possible with version 3.0. An expert
mode allows fast keyboard operation and is equivalent to version
2.21 and earlier. A novice or mouse mode is available that
supplies extra information in the form of pull down menus. These
menus can be used to learn the program or used with a mouse for
click on selecting of functions.
Extra information is available on the prompt line to aid the
user in completing each step.
APPENDIX VI: DATEIT
DATEIT is a utility program designed to replace the DOS DATE
command for those without an onboard clock calendar. It is not
part of PC-KEY-DRAW, but compliments its use. DATEIT remembers
the last date entered so that if you reboot or even turn the
computer off for a while the date will be correct when the
computer is powered back up. The next day you use it the day will
be off, but the month and year will be correct, so just enter in
the correct day and the correct date will be set for your
machine. The first of the month will require the month and day to
be entered and of course on January 1 you will have to enter the
entire date.
It is a good idea to always set the date on your computer since
it makes it much easier to determine when a file was created.
Feel free to copy DATEIT to other disks.
ted.
Feel free to copy DATEIT to other disks.