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PC-SIG Diskette Library (Disk #278)
[PCjs Machine "ibm5150"]
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Information about “QSYS DOS MENU 2 OF 2 (#118 FIRST DISK)”
Who needs to get organized? Not everyone, certainly. But if you do feel
the need, QSYS DOS MENU may be just what you're looking for. The program
is an operating environment of its own, a menu system, an appointment
calendar, and a message system. One of the major features of the program
is its password capability for up to 24 users.
QSYS DOS MENU is an excellent choice whaere a business may include non-
computer-literate (NCL) employees, because the system does much of the
more complicated operations by means of its won DOS system.
System Requirements: Color graphics, two disk drives, (hard disk
recommended)
How to Start: Consult the .DOC and README files on Disk 278 for
directions and documentation. To run QSYS.EXE, just type its name,
i.e., QSYS and press <ENTER>.
Suggested Registration: QSYS $50.00 for full documentation and update
File Descriptions:
The First Disk Contains:
QSYS EXE Main QSYS program
QINST EXE Part of QSYS
AUTOEXEC BAT Installation startup procedure batch file
QLDR COM Part of QSYS
QINT EXE Part of QSYS
QCNFG EXE Part of QSYS
QMSG EXE Message handler
MEMBRAIN SYS RAMdisk initial bootup file
CONFIG SYS Initial bootup file MEMBRAIN EXE RAMdisk
MEMBRAIN EXE Disk examination utility
The Second Disk Contains:
MAKEDOC TXT Instructions for printing documentation
MAKEDOC BAT Batch file to print documentation
READ ME! Read this first ________
Q_* DOC Documentation files (17 files)
MAKEDOC.TXT
The QSYS documentation is provided in several files. This may seem
a bit strange at first, but really, there's a very good reason. Most
printers available for personal computers are not designed to withstand
continuous duty. I found this to be true with my own printer. It seems
that the heat associated with extremely lengthy print jobs has a very
adverse effect on printheads. For this reason, I thought it appropriate
to provide the documentation file in the form of several smaller files.
There is also a provision for combining the files into one large file,
or to print all of the smaller files at once, for those of you who feel
that your printer is up the task. If in doubt, assume that your printer
is only as good as mine was.
Regardless of which of the following methods you decide to use for
printing the documentation, a few things are assumed. Each page of the
documentation is 66 lines long. This means that on standard 8.5" x 11"
forms, at 6 lines/inch, each page will finish at top-of-form, it it
started at top-of-form. The documentation files all have an extension
of '.DOC ', and are on the QSYS DOCUMENTATION diskette in the order in
which they should be printed and assembled.
- Light-Duty Printers:
Use the 'COPY ' command to print each '.DOC ' file. For example,
the command 'COPY Q_TITLE.DOC LPT1: ', would print the first file to a
printer connected to the first parallel port.
The 'PRINT ' command could also be used, but since the spooler
outputs a top-of-form at the end of each file, a blank page would be
ejected after each file that was printed.
- Continuous-Duty Printers
A batch file named 'MAKEDOC.BAT ' is provided for combining the
documentation files, or for printing all of the files at once. This
batch file uses two parameters. The first parameter tells MAKEDOC where
the QSYS documentation files can be found, and the second parameter
tells MAKEDOC where to output them. Enter the command in the following
format.
d:MAKEDOC parm1 parm2
d: - The drive in which QSYS DOCUMENTATION is inserted, if not the
default drive.
parm1 - The drive in which QSYS DOCUMENTATION is inserted. Must be
specified if not the default drive, or if parm2 is specified.
parm2 - The output device or file specification to which the combined
QSYS documentation files will be copied. Any valid device
name, such as 'LPT1: ' or 'COM1: ' may be specified. May also
be a file specification, including drive, path, and filename.
This parameter defaults to 'd:QSYS.DOC ' if omitted.
For example, 'B:MAKEDOC B: LPT1: ' invokes MAKEDOC from drive B:, and
copies all of the QSYS documentation files from drive B: to the device
connected to the first parallel port. The command 'MAKEDOC ' without
any parameters assumes that QSYS DOCUMENTATION is in the default drive,
and copies all of the documentation files to a file named 'QSYS.DOC '
on the QSYS DOCUMENTATION diskette. The latter example would be most
useful for printing the documentation file using the 'PRINT ' command.
Q_APPA.DOC
APPENDIX A
MEMBRAIN DOCUMENTATION
- Description
MEMBRAIN.EXE creates a file named 'MEMBRAIN.SYS ', a DOS device
driver for an emulated disk drive configured to your specifications.
MEMBRAIN is installed through the DOS device driver interface using
a 'DEVICE= ' statement in 'CONFIG.SYS '. DOS will assign to the drive
the next available drive letter. For example, if your system has disk
drives A: and B:, MEMBRAIN will be drive C:. On a PC-XT with drives A:
and C:, MEMBRAIN will be drive D:.
- System Requirements
An IBM PC or XT with at least 128K of memory and DOS 2.X
- Installation
1) Enter on the DOS or QSYS command line:
MEMBRAIN disk size,sector size,cluster size,directory entries,path
disk size - The requested size of the emulated drive in Kbytes.
An error is returned if the resulting configuration would
leave less than 64K of free memory. If this parameter is
omitted, the default disk size is 160K.
sector size - The size of each logical sector in bytes. Sector
size should be a multiple of 128 and will be rounded up to
the next 128 byte multiple. For example, if the parameter
is entered as 150, then the actual sector size will be 256
bytes. The default is 512 bytes per sector.
cluster size - The number of sectors per cluster. An error will
be returned if the number of bytes per cluster exceeds 2048.
Refer to 'Configuration Tips ' for more information. The
default is 1 sector per cluster.
directory entries - The maximum number of filenames that the disk
directory can hold. This parameter will be adjusted upward as
necessary to a multiple of sector size. The default is 64.
path - The drive and directory path in which MEMBRAIN.SYS is to be
created. This parameter is entered in the form 'd:\path '. If
drive is omitted, then the default drive will be used. If the
path is omitted, then the current directory will be used.
NOTES:
- MEMBRAIN.EXE passes a return code upon termination that can be
tested in a batch file with the 'IF ERRORLEVEL ' batch file
command. A non-zero return code indicates that an error occurred.
APP - A1
APPENDIX A
MEMBRAIN DOCUMENTATION
2) To create a CONFIG.SYS file:
Enter on the DOS command line:
COPY CON: CONFIG.SYS 'Copies keyboard input to CONFIG.SYS
DEVICE=MEMBRAIN.SYS ' this goes into the file
Press F6 and then <ENTER> ' this writes the file to disk
NOTES:
- CONFIG.SYS must be on the drive used to boot DOS.
- If you already use CONFIG.SYS, then edit it to include the
statement 'DEVICE=MEMBRAIN.SYS '.
- Multiple 'DEVICE= ' statements can be used in CONFIG.SYS to load
more than 1 MEMBRAIN device driver. This is less efficient than
using a single, larger device driver, and is not supported by
the QSYS INSTALLATION AID.
3) Re-boot DOS either by powering the system off and then back on, or
with the key sequence 'Ctrl-Alt-Del '. The MEMBRAIN.SYS device
driver is automatically loaded and initialized by DOS.
- Configuration Tips
MEMBRAIN.EXE displays a summary of disk space utilization as it
creates MEMBRAIN.SYS. The following example illustrates how to use
the data provided.
MEMBRAIN 20,128,1,8,C:\ 'Command used to invoke MEMBRAIN.EXE
<<<< M e m B r a i n >>>> 'Title
(C) 1984 Dennis Lee
20K MemBrain Created 'disk size \ These are the
\ values created,
128 bytes per sector 'sector size \ and may differ
1 sectors per cluster 'cluster size / from requested
8 directory entries 'directory entries/ values.
1 reserved sector 'boot record \
2 FAT sectors 'file allocation table > overhead
2 directory sectors 'directory /
155 data sectors 'usable file space
--------------------------
160 total sectors '160 sectors X 128 bytes/sect = 20K
This summary can be used to analyze the overhead of the configuration.
Since a change in the configuration has no effect until the next time
DOS boots, MEMBRAIN.EXE may be executed several times to analyze the
effects of different parameters. The following notes are general tips.
APP - A2
APPENDIX A
MEMBRAIN DOCUMENTATION
1) Sector and Cluster Sizes
Each cluster requires 1.5 bytes of space for the file allocation
table, and the total is rounded up to next multiple of the sector size.
The general rule for adjusting sector size and cluster size is to use
small sector and cluster sizes for smaller drives, or when small files
will be stored, since less space will be wasted when part of a cluster
is left unused between files. Larger sector and/or cluster sizes may
provide more usable disk space per Kbyte of disk size, and a slight
performance gain with larger drives, or when a few large files are to
to be stored, since less space will be used for FAT sectors, wasted
space between files is less of a consideration, and DOS will spend less
time finding a given amount of data.
2) Directory Entries
Each directory entry requires 32 bytes of space, and the total is
rounded up to the next multiple of sector size. For example, with 128
byte sectors, you get 4 directory entries per sector. Any request for
directory entries would be rounded up to a multiple of 4. The only key
to allocating directory entries is to allocate slightly more than you
think you'll need, because it's frustrating to have free disk space and
no available directory entries, but not too many, since extra entries
are wasted space. MEMBRAIN uses one directory entry for a volume label.
- Operational Characteristics
MEMBRAIN looks to DOS like a non-IBM fixed disk. This device type
is used because it provides an operational interface to DOS consistent
with it's performance characteristics. The following list outlines it's
important operational characteristics.
1) Since MEMBRAIN is a non-IBM device, the 'FORMAT ' command will
not work with it. It doesn't need to be formatted!
2) Since MEMBRAIN can be any non-standard size, and is considered
fixed media, 'DISKCOPY ' will not work with it.
APP - A3
Q_APPB.DOC
APPENDIX B
QLDR DOCUMENTATION
- Description
QLDR.COM is a program used by QSYS to enhance it's ability to load
programs, batch files and DOS commands through a DOS batch file. It
handles the tasks of checking for the required files, prompting for
required media, handling errors associated with missing directories and
files, and even for the execution of batch files and BASIC programs. It
also provides services for interrupting the execution of a batch file,
the ability to move forward and backward between tasks in a batch file,
and the ability to temporarily load the DOS command processor at any
point within the batch file, execute any program, batch file, or DOS
command, and return to the interrupted batch file at the point at which
execution was suspended.
QLDR can be used in any batch file that is executed in the QSYS
environment. It receives it's input from command line parameters, and
passes it's output to the calling batch file through the DOS 2.X return
code mechanism. This output can be determined by the calling batch file
through use of 'IF ERRORLEVEL ' statements.
- Input Parameters
QLDR is loaded and passed parameters through use of the following
command line. Each parameter passed to QLDR is discussed in detail.
QLDR Program type,Drive,Vol-id,Path,Filename.ext,Parameters
- Program Type
The program type describes to QLDR the type of file which
will be loaded. It is a single character, a number between 0 and
5. The action that QLDR takes depends upon this parameter. The
table below describes what each program type means, and the action
which QLDR takes for each program type.
BLANK - Instructs QLDR to interrupt batch file execution and
display the option menu. All other parameters are
discarded if present. Once a menu option is selected,
QLDR terminates and passes a return code equal to the
menu option selected, unless the selection was 4. In
this case, the command processor is loaded and QLDR
passes control to it. After the command processor is
terminated with the 'EXIT ' command, QLDR re-displays
the option menu.
0 - Instructs QLDR to test for a user interrupt (Escape),
and interrupt execution and display the option menu
only if an interrupt is requested. If an interrupt is
detected, the action taken by QLDR is the same as if
the program type parameter was blank.
1 - The 'Filename.ext ' parameter is an internal DOS
command. QLDR action is the same as for type 0.
APP - B1
APPENDIX B
QLDR DOCUMENTATION
2 - The 'Filename.ext ' parameter is a .COM or .EXE file.
QLDR tests for media in the specified drive with the
specified volume label, changes to the indicated
directory, checks for the existence of the specified
file, tests for a user interrupt, and terminates
passing a return code.
3 - The 'Filename.ext ' parameter is a batch file. QLDR
tests for media in the specified drive with the
specified volume label, changes to the indicated
directory, checks for the existence of the specified
file, loads COMMAND.COM from the drive and directory
from which DOS was booted, and passes the batch file
name and parameters to it for execution. After the
command processor executes the batch file, it passes
control back to QLDR which then terminates and passes
a return code back to the calling batch file.
4 - The 'Filename.ext ' parameter is a BASIC program. The
actions taken by QLDR are the same as those for type
3 programs, except that BASIC.COM is loaded instead
of COMMAND.COM.
5 - The 'Filename.ext ' parameter is an advanced BASIC
program. The actions taken by QLDR are the same as
those for type 4 programs, except that BASICA.COM is
loaded instead of BASIC.COM.
- Drive
The drive parameter is passed in the form of a drive letter
followed by a colon. For example 'A: '. This is the drive on which
QLDR can find the requested file. If this parameter is omitted,
then QLDR will assume the drive from which DOS was booted.
- Vol-id
This is the volume label of the media that is expected to be
in the specified drive. If this parameter is omitted, then QLDR
will not check for a volume label.
- Path
This is the directory path, specified from the root directory
to the file, in which the specified file can be found. If this
parameter is omitted, then QLDR will assume the root directory.
- Filename.ext
This is the filename and extension of the file to loaded. It
may contain global filename characters. This parameter cannot be
omitted if the program type is greater than 1.
APP - B2
APPENDIX B
QLDR DOCUMENTATION
- Parameters
This is the parameter string to be passed to the program to
be loaded. This parameter may be omitted if no parameters are to
be passed.
- Output Return Code
If all necessary resources are available, and the program type is
not blank, QLDR will terminate passing a return code of 0. If resources
are unavailable, or the Escape key has been pressed requesting a user
interrupt, the following menu will be displayed, and QLDR will halt
awaiting operator intervention.
1) Re-run Previous Task
2) Cancel Current Task
3) Cancel the Batch File
4) DOS Command Processor
Press <ENTER> to Continue or Select Option: _
Option 4 will only be displayed if the current user is a primary user.
Once an option, other than option 4, which loads the command processor,
has been selected, QLDR will terminate passing a return code equal to
the number of the menu selection. The following example batch file
entries illustrate how the return codes are used to control batch file
execution.
' assume previous tasks exist
:JOB02 ' batch file label
CD C:\ ' change to QLDR directory
C:QLDR 1,,,,DIR, B: ' load QLDR and pass parameters
IF ERRORLEVEL 3 GOTO END ' if selection 3 then end batch file
IF ERRORLEVEL 2 GOTO JOB3 ' if selection 2 then next task
IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO JOB1 ' if selection 1 then previous task
DIR B: ' if <ENTER> then proceed
:JOB03 ' batch file label
ECHO Loading QSYS ' say what we're loading
CD C:\ ' change to QLDR directory
C:QLDR 2,C:,,\,QSYS.EXE ' load QLDR and pass parameters
IF ERRORLEVEL 3 GOTO END ' if selection 3 then end batch file
IF ERRORLEVEL 2 GOTO JOB4 ' if selection 2 then next task
IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO JOB2 ' if selection 1 then previous task
C:QSYS.EXE ' if <ENTER> then proceed
:JOB04 ' batch file label
' assume more tasks follow
:END ' end of batch file
APP - B3
Q_APPC.DOC
APPENDIX C
THE BASE MENU
The base QSYS menu can be thought of as a reference point from
which all other QSYS menus are created and accessed. The installation
procedure creates a default base menu and names it 'SYSTEM MENU '.
This menu is created in the same directory as QSYS. It is not only
possible to rename the base menu, but also to relocate it, as long as
any changes are made prior to creation of new QSYS menus. Once new
menus have been created, it is not advisable to rename or relocate the
base menu or any other parent menu.
In order to change the base menu, changes will have to be made to
the AUTOEXEC.BAT file that the installation procedure created. In this
file, there will be an entry similar to the example below. This entry
is used to load QINT.EXE. The parameters passed to QINT set the base
menu location when QSYS is booted.
QINT SYSTEM MENU,SYS1,A:\SYSTEM.MNU,9
| | | |
| | | Security Level
| | Menu File Specification
| Volume label
Menu name
As you can see, the parameters passed to QINT are in the same format
as a menu descriptor! Get the picture?
As mentioned previously, the base menu can be thought of as a
reference point from which all other menus are accessed. It is also
possible to tell QSYS that a menu, other than the real base menu, is
the base menu. Confusing? Well, don't try this until you're no longer
confused. What all this really means, is that to QSYS, the base menu
is only a menu that is used for a default. It doesn't really have to
be the very first menu, it can be any menu. It should be a menu with
a security level of 9, so that every user has a menu to look at when
first signed-on, but it can be in the middle or at the end of the menu
structure, as well as at the beginning.
I purposely didn't go into much detail on this subject. It is an
area that most installations will never play with, and indeed no-one
should ever have to change. I mention it because the mechanism exists,
and someone, somewhere will find a need to use it. If this is the case,
then they'd better know what they're doing. It is quite possible to
really screw things up if you don't! Study the MENU SYSTEM section of
this documentation until you really feel that you know how it works
before taking chances with the menu system that you've spent hours,
days, or however long setting up.
APP - C1
Q_CLOCK.DOC
CLOCK/CALENDAR
The CLOCK/CALENDAR screen is the default screen of QSYS, and will
be displayed anytime that a user is not signed-on to the system. This
screen will be the first QSYS screen displayed after the startup proc-
edure executes. It can be reached from the MENU SYSTEM by pressing F10,
or from any other QSYS screen by pressing Ctrl-Break. Following is a
a summary of the functions available from the CLOCK/CALENDAR.
- Calendar Browsing
The range of DOS' calendar is 1/1/1980 to 12/31/2099. In the
interest of consistency, this is also the range of the calendar
used in QSYS.
F1 - Moves the Calendar back one month.
F2 - Moves the Calendar forward one month.
F3 - Moves the calendar back continuously one month at a
time until another function key is pressed.
F4 - Moves the calendar forward continuously one month at a
time until another function key is pressed.
F5 - Prompts for you to enter the month and year to be
displayed.
F6 - Returns the calendar to the current month and year.
F10 - Terminates F3,F4,F5, and F7 functions
- Display the MSGQ
F7 - A summary of Messages for the current system date will
be displayed. If no Messages are in the MSGQ, then an
informational system message will be displayed.
- MSGQ Alarm Control
F17 - Toggle action key that switches the current state of
the MSGQ Alarm. A 'note ' symbol is displayed on line
25 of the screen when the alarm is activated. When
activated, the MSGQ Alarm will sound two loud, high-
pitched tones once per minute when a message is due.
This control is reset to the default state as set by
the 'CLOCK/CALENDAR Configuration ' whenever the
CLOCK/CALENDAR screen is exited.
- Sign-on
Entering your password allows access to the QSYS menu system.
If you are the last user that was signed-on to the system, then
QSYS will return you to the same place in the menu structure as
you were when you signed-off. Otherwise, QSYS will return to the
base QSYS menu.
CLK - 1
Q_CNFG.DOC
QSYS CONFIGURATION
- Description
In order to simplify the installation procedure, default options
are taken for as many of the QSYS configuration parameters as possible.
The installation aid configures only those parameters necessary for the
system hardware on which QSYS is installed. QCNFG.EXE allows real-time
configuration of the system parameters that make QSYS fit the operating
environment in which it is to be used. Facilities are provided for user
control, and screen, keyboard, and clock configuration. All changes to
the configuration made in QCNFG are effective immediately, and effect
all applicable QSYS program modules. Any alterations to configuration
parameters are written to QSYS.SYS when QCNFG terminates. If QSYS.SYS
is not available at that time, QCNFG will prompt for the proper media.
It is possible to abort all changes by terminating QCNFG using the
Ctrl-Break sequence.
The QSYS security system restricts access to some QCNFG functions
altogether, and merely controls the way which other functions perform.
The following sub-sections detail the operation of each function.
- QCNFG.EXE Loading Options
QCNFG incorporates it's own function menu, allowing access to all
configuration functions from within the program. It is also possible to
access each function directly by passing the menu option number to
QCNFG using a command line parameter. For example, 'USER CONTROL ' is
option 1 on the Configuration Menu. The User Control function can be
directly accessed, bypassing the Configuration Menu by appending a '1 '
to the command line used to load QCNFG.EXE. This is illustrated in the
default base QSYS menu created by the installation procedure. Refer to
QSYS COMMAND LINE and MENU EDITOR in the MENU SYSTEM section for more
information on QSYS command and filespec format.
- Configuration Menu
The Configuration Menu currently contains the following options.
1) USER CONTROL MENU
2) KEYBOARD/DISPLAY CONFIG.
3) CLOCK/CALENDAR CONFIG.
Each function is accessed by entering the number of the menu option.
F10 terminates the configuration program and writes any changes to the
configuration file.
CNFG - 1
QSYS CONFIGURATION
- USER CONTROL MENU
This selection provides access to all system user options. The
functions provided vary with the user's security level. Following is
an explanation of each function.
1) ADD NEW USERS
All users may sponsor new users to the system. The system
will prompt for the new users name and password. A default
security clearance of 9 will be assigned. The sponsoring user
will remain signed on.
2) DELETE USERS
Selection of this option will cause the cursor to move to
left of the current users name. A prompt will instruct the user
to enter a ` D ' to delete the user. The up and down arrows are
active to primary users, allowing repositioning of the cursor to
the left of another user's name. Any other keys will cancel this
option. Only a primary user (security level 0), may delete another
user. Any user may delete himself, unless that user is the only
primary user on the system. In the event that a user deletes
himself from the system, an immediate sign-off will occur, and
any messages on file for the deleted user will automatically be
purged from the message file during the next file reorganization
procedure.
3) CHANGE USER NAME
A user may change the name which the QSYS system uses for
identification. Care should be taken in doing so, since concurrent
changes are not automatically made in the message file. If it is
necessary to change the name of a user, known to have messages on
file, it is advised that the user FIRST add himself as a new user,
and reassign his messages to the new user. Failure to do so could
cause the user's messages to become inaccessible. All references
in the message file to users not currently in the QSYS user list
are deleted during file reorganization.
4) CHANGE PASSWORD
A user may change his password at any time. In the interest
of security, the password entry will not display. New passwords
are effective immediately. The password must consist of 5 data
keys. No function or cursor control keys are allowed. The default
shift state is CAPS LOCK, but may be overridden. Shift of the
characters in a password entry is significant. For example, a
password of 'IBMPC ' is considered to be different from 'ibmpc '.
CNFG - 2
QSYS CONFIGURATION
5) CHANGE SECURITY CLEARANCE
Selection of this option will move the cursor to the current
user's security clearance field. The up and down arrows are active
to primary users (security level 0), allowing repositioning of the
cursor to another user's security field for alteration. A user may
not use this option to upgrade his own clearance. In addition, the
only primary user's clearance may not be altered. The system must
retain at least one primary user at all times.
- Function Keys
F9 Menu
Pressing F9 on the command line re-displays the Configuration
Menu. The operation of F9 differs from that of F10 only if the a
function was originally accessed directly, without the aid of the
Configuration Menu.
F10 End
The F10 key terminates the current function. If the original
access to the configuration program was through the Configuration
Menu, then the menu is re-displayed. Otherwise, any changes are
written to the configuration file, and QCNFG is terminated.
CNFG - 3
QSYS CONFIGURATION
- KEYBOARD/DISPLAY CONFIGURATION
This selection, available only to primary users, allows alteration
of the parameters that control the display colors, cursor size, and
keyboard timer. Changes made here affect only the QSYS programs. The
DOS screen and all other programs loaded from the JOBQ are unaffected.
1) DISPLAY PARAMETERS
The display parameters allow the QSYS display colors to be
altered to suite the taste and monitor type of the user. During
installation, the display was configured for a black background
and border, with a white foreground and bright white highlights.
The attributes conform to the colors as described in the BASIC
reference manual under the 'COLOR ' statement. Since all changes
are effective as they are entered, it is possible, under some
circumstances, that data will not display as it is keyed. After
all display parameter fields have been entered, the screen will
be adjusted to the new values. This makes it possible to test
different combinations of colors before making permanent changes.
It is generally a good idea to make the foreground, highlight,
and background attributes differ, since non-display of data is
possible by setting the foreground and background to the same
attribute.
- Foreground Attribute
A value between 0 and 31. This is the attribute used to
display data on the QSYS screens.
- Highlight Attribute
A value between 0 and 31. This attribute is used to highlight
input fields and certain other areas of the QSYS screens. Certain
QSYS functions, such as the MSGQ screen, require that this color
differ from the foreground attribute in order to provide maximum
function.
- Background Attribute
A value between 0 and 15. Even though only values of 0 to 7
will actually display as the background color, values of 8 to 15
will cause changes in other areas of the screen.
- Border Attribute
A value between 0 and 15. Setting of this parameter will
cause the overscan area of the screen to change color.
CNFG - 4
QSYS CONFIGURATION
2) KEYBOARD PARAMETERS
- Numeric Lock
This parameter allows setting the default state of the
numeric keypad shift. In the 'ON ' state, the numeric values of
each key are used. The cursor controls may be activated by hold-
ing down either shift key while the desired numeric keypad key is
pressed. In the 'OFF ' state, the cursor controls are active, and
the numeric keys can be activated by pressing pressing either
shift key. In either state, the default may be overridden for the
duration of the current field by pressing 'Num Lock '.
- Cursor Size
A value between 0 and 7. This is actually the value used to
set the top scan line of the cursor. A value of 0 produces a full
height cursor, where a value of 7 produces the smallest possible
cursor. For example, DOS uses a value of 6.
- Keyboard Timer
A value between 0 and 59 minutes. The default setting of 0
disables the keyboard timer. Setting the value above 0 enables the
keyboard timer. When enabled, inactivity at the keyboard for the
specified number of minutes causes the current user to be signed-
off, the current function to be terminated, and CLOCK/CALENDAR is
displayed. The keyboard timer is only active in the QSYS system
programs, and will not terminate other programs loaded through the
JOBQ.
- Function Keys
F9 Menu
Pressing F9 on the command line re-displays the Configuration
Menu. The operation of F9 differs from that of F10 only if the a
function was originally accessed directly, without the aid of the
Configuration Menu.
F10 End
The F10 key terminates the current function. If the original
access to the configuration program was through the Configuration
Menu, then the menu is re-displayed. Otherwise, any changes are
written to the configuration file, and QCNFG is terminated.
CNFG - 5
QSYS CONFIGURATION
- CLOCK/CALENDAR CONFIGURATION
This selection, available only to primary users, is used to
configure the CLOCK/CALENDAR screen.
1) SET TIME
Used to set the system time. The time is always entered in 24
hour format, even though the clock may be configured to display 12
hour format. The time will always be displayed using the format
'HH:MM:SS ', but may be entered using any standard DOS format.
2) SET DATE
Used to set the system date. The date will always display in
in the format ' MM-DD-YYYY ', but may be entered in any standard
DOS format. If the system date is changed, a MSGQ update will be
performed at the next sign-off.
3) DISPLAY OPTIONS
- Foreground Character
The ASCII value of the character used to form the characters
of the system clock. May be a value between 0 and 255. The default
is 4. The BASIC reference manual contains a complete list of the
ASCII character set.
- Foreground Attribute
The color of the system clock characters. May be a value
between 0 and 31. The default is 15.
- Background Character
The ASCII value of the character used to make up the back-
ground of the CLOCK/CALENDAR screen. May be a value between 0 and
255. The default is 0.
- Background Attribute
The color of the background characters. May be a value
between 0 and 31. The default is 0.
CNFG - 6
QSYS CONFIGURATION
4) FORMAT OPTIONS
- Time Format
The values 12 or 24 are valid. The default is 12. In the 12
hour format the time will be displayed as 00:00 to 12:00. In the
24 hour format the time will be displayed as 00:00 to 24:00.
- Clock Format
Allows the user to configure the system clock to display the
time as 'HH:MM:SS ', which is the default, or as 'HH:MM '.
5) SOUND OPTIONS
- Hourly Chimes
A response of 'Y ' activates the chimes, and a response of
'N ' deactivates them. When activated, and the CLOCK/CALENDAR
screen is displayed, the chimes will sound on the hour.
- Hourly Tones
A response of 'Y ' activates the tones, and a response of
'N ' deactivates them. When activated, and the CLOCK/CALENDAR
screen is displayed, the tones will indicate the hour currently
displayed immediately following the Hourly Chimes, if also active.
- MSGQ Alarm
A response of 'Y ' sets the default state of the MSGQ alarm
to on. Two loud, high pitched tones will sound each minute while
the CLOCK/CALENDAR is displayed and messages are due. A response
of 'N ' sets the default state of the MSGQ alarm to off. Either
state may be overridden at the CLOCK/CALENDAR screen with the F17
function key.
- Function Keys
F9 Menu
Pressing F9 on the command line re-displays the Configuration
Menu. The operation of F9 differs from that of F10 only if the a
function was originally accessed directly, without the aid of the
Configuration Menu.
F10 End
The F10 key terminates the current function. If the original
access to the configuration program was through the Configuration
Menu, then the menu is re-displayed. Otherwise, any changes are
written to the configuration file, and QCNFG is terminated.
CNFG - 7
Q_CONT.DOC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREFACE
QSYS Description..........................................PREF - 1
System Requirements.......................................PREF - 1
Voluntary Support.........................................PREF - 2
Limited License...........................................PREF - 2
List of QSYS Files........................................PREF - 3
GENERAL INFORMATION
Security System...........................................GEN - 1
Screen Format.............................................GEN - 2
QSYS Editor...............................................GEN - 3
QSYS INSTALLATION
Before Installation.......................................INST - 1
Backing up your system..................................INST - 1
Backing up QSYS.........................................INST - 2
Installation..............................................INST - 3
User Configuration Files................................INST - 3
QSYS Installation Aid...................................INST - 5
After Installation........................................INST - 11
Required Operating Files................................INST - 11
Default SYSTEM MENU.....................................INST - 11
MEMBRAIN Configuration..................................INST - 11
SYSTEM STARTUP
Startup Sequence..........................................STRT - 1
CLOCK/CALENDAR
Description and Functions.................................CLK - 1
MENU SYSTEM
Description...............................................MENU - 1
Task Selection............................................MENU - 2
Menu Selection............................................MENU - 2
Available Functions.......................................MENU - 3
QSYS Command Line.........................................MENU - 4
Executing .COM, .EXE, or .BAT files.....................MENU - 4
Executing BASIC Programs................................MENU - 5
Menu Editor...............................................MENU - 6
Task or Menu Descriptors................................MENU - 6
General Information.....................................MENU - 7
Adding Descriptors......................................MENU - 8
Editing Existing Descriptors............................MENU - 8
Deleting Descriptors....................................MENU - 8
Selecting a Menu........................................MENU - 8
Creating a New Menu.....................................MENU - 9
Deleting a Menu.........................................MENU - 9
Relocating a Menu.......................................MENU - 9
JOBQ
Description...............................................JOBQ - 1
Special JOBQ Commands.....................................JOBQ - 1
DOS Batch File Commands and Labels in the JOBQ............JOBQ - 1
Use of QLDR in User Batch Files...........................JOBQ - 1
JOBQ Functions............................................JOBQ - 2
Pre-Release JOBQ Functions..............................JOBQ - 2
JOBQ Execution Services.................................JOBQ - 3
JOBQ Execution Control..................................JOBQ - 3
MSGQ
Description and Functions.................................MSGQ - 1
CONT - 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MESSAGE SYSTEM
Description...............................................MSG - 1
Loading Options...........................................MSG - 1
Common Editing Features...................................MSG - 1
Message Data Fields.......................................MSG - 2
Messages Menu.............................................MSG - 3
Help Facility.............................................MSG - 3
DISPLAY Message Function..................................MSG - 4
PREVIEW Message Function..................................MSG - 5
ENTER NEW Message Function................................MSG - 6
SEARCH/EDIT Message Function..............................MSG - 7
SET TIME & DATE Function..................................MSG - 8
FILE REORGANIZATION Procedure.............................MSG - 8
QSYS CONFIGURATION
Description...............................................CNFG - 1
Loading Options...........................................CNFG - 1
Configuration Menu........................................CNFG - 1
User Control Menu.......................................CNFG - 2
Add New Users.........................................CNFG - 2
Delete Users..........................................CNFG - 2
Change User Name......................................CNFG - 2
Change Password.......................................CNFG - 2
Change Security Clearance.............................CNFG - 3
Function Keys.........................................CNFG - 3
Keyboard/Display Configuration..........................CNFG - 4
Display Parameters....................................CNFG - 4
Keyboard Parameters...................................CNFG - 5
Function Keys.........................................CNFG - 5
Clock Configuration.....................................CNFG - 6
Set Time..............................................CNFG - 6
Set Date..............................................CNFG - 6
Display Options.......................................CNFG - 6
Format Options........................................CNFG - 7
Sound Options.........................................CNFG - 7
Function Keys.........................................CNFG - 7
SYSTEM MESSAGES
Description...............................................ERR - 1
Informational Messages....................................ERR - 2
Procedural Error Messages.................................ERR - 3
System Error Messages.....................................ERR - 8
APPENDIXES
A - MEMBRAIN Documentation................................APP - A1
Description.............................................APP - A1
System Requirements.....................................APP - A1
Installation............................................APP - A1
Configuration Tips......................................APP - A2
Operational Characteristics.............................APP - A3
B - QLDR Documentation....................................APP - B1
Description.............................................APP - B1
Input Parameters........................................APP - B1
Output Return Code......................................APP - B3
C - QSYS Base Menu........................................APP - C1
GLOSSARY....................................................GLOS - 1
CONT - 2
Q_ERR.DOC
SYSTEM MESSAGES
All QSYS system programs incorporate a comprehensive set of error
trapping and recovery routines. The System Messages returned by these
routines can be classified into three distinct groups. The group
classification of a particular message can be distinguished by the
accompanying tone(s) and the duration of display.
INFORMATIONAL MESSAGES
System Messages of this group are not posted as the result
of an error condition, but simply to convey the status of the
current function. They are characterized by the accompanying short
duration tone of medium pitch, unless the message is meant as a
warning, in which case the duration will be longer and the pitch
higher to draw your attention to the message line. This type of
message will be displayed for approximately 3 seconds. Recovery
action is not necessary.
PROCEDURAL ERRORS
System Messages of this group are posted as the result of an
incorrect operator action, such as an invalid data field entry.
They are characterized by a long duration, low-pitched tone and
are displayed for approximately 6 seconds. Recovery is usually
automatic.
SYSTEM ERRORS
System Messages of this group are posted as the result of a
critical error condition, such as a hardware or program failure.
They are characterized by the typical DOS ' beep ', sometimes
accompanied by a long low-pitched tone. These errors require an
operator response, and the available recovery options are listed
on the prompt line.
If the active screen at the time a message is posted happens to be
the DOS screen, then the message will display on the next available
line and processing will continue immediately. On any other screen, the
message will display on line 25 for the specified time and only then
will processing continue. In this case, the display of a message may be
terminated by pressing the <ENTER> key, unless the message includes
options for recovery.
ERR - 1
INFORMATIONAL MESSAGES
' task ' Placed in JOBQ
The task initiated from a menu or the command line has been
successfully added the JOBQ.
' task ' Placed in JOBQ * JOBQ Now Full
The last task initiated caused the JOBQ to reach it's
operational limit. Any attempt to initiate further tasks will
result in a JOBQ overrun.
JOBQ Empty
The JOBQ is empty. This message will be posted if an attempt
is made to display an empty JOBQ, a task is deleted from the JOBQ
leaving it empty, or if an attempt is made to release an empty
JOBQ for execution.
MSGQ Update Required * JOBQ Active
The system date has changed and QSYS is attempting to execute
the Message File Reorganization procedure, but the system has been
signed-off with tasks present in the JOBQ. The JOBQ tasks must be
deleted or released for execution before QSYS will automatically
initiate the file reorganization.
Message Added to MSGQ * MSGQ Now Full
The last message added to the MSGQ caused it to reach it's
operational limit. Any action which causes QMSG to attempt to add
another message to the queue will result in a MSGQ overrun.
MSGQ Empty
The MSGQ is empty. This message is posted if an attempt is
made to display an empty MSGQ, initiate the DISPLAY or PREVIEW
functions of QMSG when no messages are due for the active user,
or to signal the end of the DISPLAY or PREVIEW functions after
the last message due or pending has been displayed.
No Messages in File for 'user name '
An attempt was made to initiate the SEARCH/EDIT function of
QMSG, and no messages to which the active user is allowed access
exist.
Message File Empty
The message file is empty. This message is posted when any
attempt is made to initiate the SEARCH/EDIT function of QMSG and
the file contains no messages.
ERR - 2
PROCEDURAL ERRORS
SYS001 - PARAMETER OUT OF SPECIFIED RANGE
The data entered is outside the range of valid parameters
specified for this field.
Recovery: Enter a value inside the specified range.
SYS002 - INVALID RESPONSE
A response of other than the indicated valid choices for
the current field been entered.
Recovery: Retry the entry using a valid response.
SYS003 - INVALID TIME
The time entered is in an invalid format, or is outside the
range of the DOS 24 hour clock. This message might also be posted
in QMSG if the time entered on a message input screen is prior to
the current system time.
Recovery: Consult your DOS reference manual for information
concerning the format and range of valid time entries. Also,
if entering a time into a message, use the HELP function to
obtain the current system time. Retry the entry.
SYS004 - INVALID DATE
The date entered is in an invalid format, or is outside the
range of the DOS Calendar. This message might also be posted in
QMSG if the date is prior to the current system date.
Recovery: Consult your DOS reference manual for information
concerning the format and range of valid date entries. Also,
if entering a date into a message, use the HELP function to
obtain the current system date.
SYS010 - INCORRECT PASSWORD * ACCESS DENIED
The password entered does not match the password of any user
in the QSYS user list.
Recovery: Re-enter the correct password. If you are sure that the
password has been entered correctly, then press <Caps Lock>
and retry the entry. Consult a primary user if still
unsuccessful.
SYS011 - ACCESS DENIED TO THIS FUNCTION
Your Security Level is insufficient to access this function.
Recovery: Consult a Primary User to secure the necessary Security
Level for this function.
ERR - 3
PROCEDURAL ERRORS
SYS012 - USER UNKNOWN TO SYSTEM
An attempt was made to send a message to a user that is not
currently in the QSYS user list.
Recovery: Use the HELP function to check the list of QSYS users
and correct the entry.
SYS015 - INVALID NAME * BLANK OR DUPLICATE
An attempt has been made to log another user into the system
using a name that is already in use. QSYS requires that all user
names be unique.
Recovery: Retry the entry using a name different from those
already in use.
SYS016 - INVALID PASSWORD * MUST BE 5 DATA KEYS
An invalid key was pressed in a user password field while
attempting to log a new user into the system. QSYS will not allow
the use of cursor control, programmed function, or special purpose
keys when entering a password.
Recovery: Retry the entry using another password.
SYS017 - NO USER ENTRIES AVAILABLE
An attempt was made to log a new user into the system, but
QSYS already supports the maximum number of users.
Recovery: Consult a Primary User. A user must be deleted before
a new user can be logged in.
SYS018 - CANNOT ALTER PRIMARY USER
An attempt was made to delete or downgrade the security level
of the only primary user logged into the system. QSYS must retain
at least one primary user at all times.
Recovery: Assign a second primary user before attempting to alter
the first.
SYS020 - JOBQ OVERRUN * JOB CANCELLED
An attempt was made to initiate a task when the JOBQ was
already at it's operational limit. The new task was cancelled.
Recovery: Delete a JOBQ entry or release the JOBQ for execution
before attempting to initiate additional tasks.
ERR - 4
PROCEDURAL ERRORS
SYS030 - MSGQ OVERRUN * ENTRY LOST
QMSG attempted to add a message to the MSGQ, but it was
already at it's operational limit. This error can occur while
entering new messages for the current system date, editing
existing messages to include the current system date, or if more
than 50 messages are in the message file for the current system
date during the file reorganization procedure.
Recovery: If entering or editing messages, the message file will
be updated, but the MSGQ will not. If this error occurred
during file reorganization, allow the procedure to complete.
After displaying any messages that may be due, the message
file reorganization procedure can be executed a second time
to pick up any lost messages.
SYS031 - INVALID UPDATE FREQUENCY
An update frequency was entered that does not comply with
the format detailed for this field, or use of the specified update
frequency will result in a date which is outside the range of the
DOS calendar.
Recovery: Refer to 'Message Data Fields ' in the MESSAGES section
for the proper format of this field. Make sure that the year
of the date resulting from use of this frequency is less than
2100. Retry the entry.
SYS040 - CANNOT DELETE ACTIVE MENU
An attempt was made to delete a menu that contained active
task or menu descriptors.
Recovery: All descriptors must first be deleted from the menu
before QSYS will allow the menu to be deleted. Refer to
'Deleting Descriptors ' and 'Deleting a Menu ' in the MENU
SYSTEM section for more information.
SYS050 - INVALID VOLUME LABEL
The data entered is not valid for a DOS Volume Label.
Recovery: Consult your DOS reference manual under the 'VOL '
command for information concerning volume labels and then retry
the entry.
ERR - 5
PROCEDURAL ERRORS
SYS051 - INVALID DRIVE SPECIFICATION
The drive specified in a path or filespec is not known by
QSYS to exist, or the specified drive is an emulated drive and
only hardware drives may be specified for the current function.
Recovery: Correct the path or filespec entry to reflect a drive
specification that is valid for the current field.
SYS052 - INVALID DIRECTORY PATH
The directory path specified in a path or filespec entry is
not a valid DOS directory path. It contains illegal path names
or is more than 63 characters in length.
Recovery: Consult your DOS reference manual for information
concerning 'Tree Structured Directories '. Also note that in
QSYS, all directory paths must include the entire path from the
root directory to the file. Correct the entry.
SYS053 - INVALID FILENAME
The 'filename.ext ' specified is not a valid DOS filename.
Recovery: Consult your DOS reference manual for information
concerning 'Files and Filenames ' and retry the entry.
SYS054 - INVALID COMMAND
An internal DOS or JOBQ command, specified in a filespec
entry, is preceded by a drive and/or path specification.
Recovery: If the filespec is meant to be an internal DOS command,
then re-enter it without the drive and path specifications.
If the filespec entry reflects a filename that is the same as
one of the internal DOS commands, then QSYS will not support
this file.
SYS055 - INVALID PARAMETERS
An invalid parameter was passed to a program or command from
the DOS or QSYS command line. All parameters passed are discarded.
Recovery: If this error occurred in QLDR, the <ENTER> option is
unavailable, and the associated task, if any, is discarded
from the JOBQ. If the task must be executed, then select
option 4, DOS Command Processor, to execute the task.
ERR - 6
PROCEDURAL ERRORS
SYS058 - PATH 'directory path ' NOT FOUND
The indicated directory path was not found while searching
for a file.
Recovery: If this error occurred while attempting to change the
active menu, then the change is aborted and the parent menu
is reloaded. If a volume label is specified for the menu
descriptor, then the integrity of this generation of menus
is questionable.
If this error occurred while attempting to create a
new menu, then the create is aborted. QSYS will only create
menus in existing directories. The sub-directory will have to
be created using the DOS 'MD ' command from the command line,
or the menu descriptor will have to be changed to reflect an
existing directory.
SYS059 - FILE 'filename ' NOT FOUND
The indicated file does not exist in the directory that was
searched.
Recovery: If this error occurred while attempting to change the
active menu, then the change is aborted and the parent menu
is reloaded. If a volume label is specified for the menu
descriptor, then the integrity of this generation of menus
is questionable.
This error is normal while attempting to create a new
menu. No action need be taken.
SYS060 - INSUFFICIENT DISK SPACE
This error can occur while attempting to create a menu, or
during the message file reorganization procedure. It indicates
that the creation of a file cannot be performed because the media
to be used doesn't have enough free space.
Recovery: If this error occurs while attempting to create a menu,
then either the menu descriptor will have to be changed to
reflect a drive with sufficient free space, or space on the
indicated drive will have to be cleared before the menu can
be created.
If this error occurs during the file reorganization
procedure, it indicates that space, equal to the size of the
message file, could not be found on any of the installed
drives. The procedure will be aborted. Supply enough free
space for the procedure to be run on any drive, and retry
the procedure.
ERR - 7
SYSTEM ERRORS
ASM001 - ENVIRONMENT STRING ' string ' NOT FOUND
The indicated environment string was not found in the system
environment space. The program is terminated. This error can be
caused by improper installation of QSYS, an untrapped error in the
IPL sequence, modification of the AUTOEXEC.BAT, or modification of
the QSYS system environment strings.
Recovery: Re-IPL the system and retry the failing operation. If
the error persists it may be necessary to reinstall QSYS. If
a program error is suspected, please contact the author with
complete information about the error.
ASM002 - ERROR ## IN DIR FUNC ##
The directory operation identified by 'FUNC ## ' has failed
due the indicated error. The program is terminated. The causes of
this error can be the same as for ASM001. The following list of
errors can be used to help determine the cause of the error.
02 - file not found 26 - seek error
03 - path not found 27 - unknown media type
08 - insufficient memory 28 - sector not found
10 - invalid environment 29 - printer out of paper
15 - invalid drive 30 - write fault
20 - write protected 31 - read fault
22 - drive not ready 32 - general hardware failure
24 - data CRC error
The function being performed at the time of the error can be
referenced in the following table.
57 - Make Directory
58 - Remove Directory
59 - Change Directory
47 - Get Current Directory
Recovery: If the indicated error condition points to a hardware
failure, then correct the cause and retry the failing
operation. Otherwise, the recovery action is the same as
for ASM001.
ASM003 - ERROR ## IN FIND PROC
An error occurred while attempting to search a directory. The
program is terminated. The causes of this error are the same as
ASM001. Use the error descriptions listed under ASM002 to aid in
determining the cause of the error.
Recovery: Same as for ASM002.
ERR - 8
SYSTEM ERRORS
BAS001 - ERROR ### IN LINE #####
The indicated error has occurred. This is a 'catch all ' for
unexpected type errors. The program is halted awaiting an operator
response.
Recovery: Consult your BASIC reference manual under ' Error
Codes ' for a description of the error condition. If a
hardware error is indicated, then correct the cause and
select the 'Retry ' option from the choices given on the
screen. If the error condition persists, then it may be
necessary to take the 'Abort ' option and follow the
recovery procedure for ASM001. The 'Ignore ' option is
seldom desirable, and should only be taken if you KNOW
WHAT YOU'RE DOING!
INS001 - HARDWARE CONFIGURATION ERROR
The installation configuration program has determined that
the installed system equipment does not meet the requirements
necessary for the installation of QSYS. This error can also be
caused by incorrect setting of the system hardware switches, or
by the absence of both MEMBRAIN and a fixed disk.
Recovery: Refer to 'System Requirements ' in the PREFACE of this
document for information on the minimum configuration which
QSYS will support. If your equipment configuration meets this
criteria, it is possible that the memory size switches are
set incorrectly. If the cause is the absence of MEMBRAIN.SYS
from the installation diskette, then use MEMBRAIN.EXE and the
information supplied in APPENDIX A to recreate this device
with the parameters '20,128,1,16 ', and then restart the
installation from step 1.
INS002 - TOO MANY CONFIG.SYS ENTRIES
The Installation Configuration program found more than 20
entries in either the 'UCONFIG.SYS ' or 'CONFIG.SYS ' file. The
only option available is to abort the program.
Recovery: If a 'UCONFIG.SYS ' file is being used, then recreate
it with 20 or fewer entries. If no 'UCONFIG.SYS ' file is
being used, then the configuration program will correct the
error in the 'CONFIG.SYS ' file during termination. Restart
the installation from step 1.
ERR - 9
SYSTEM ERRORS
INS003 - #####K INSUFFICIENT MEMORY
The Installation Configuration program has determined that,
due to the QSYS file locations, or to the cumulative sizes of the
emulated drives on the system, the indicated amount of memory
must be recovered in order to execute QSYS.
Recovery: If the size of MEMBRAIN can be reduced by eliminating
the number of emulated QSYS files, then take the 'Retry '
option. Otherwise, the installation will have to be aborted.
If emulated drives, other than MEMBRAIN, are being used, it
may be possible to install QSYS without them.
INS004 - TOO MANY SUB-DIRECTORIES SPECIFIED
The QSYS file locations, as you have specified them in the
installation configuration program, contain more than the maximum
20 sub-directory names that the program can handle.
Recovery: Take the 'Retry ' option and respecify the QSYS file
locations using fewer sub-directories.
INS005 - #####K INSUFFICIENT FREE SPACE ON DRIVE d:
The specified drive does not contain enough free space for
all of the QSYS files that are to be located there, as specified
in the installation configuration program. This error can also
occur if the specified drive has been chosen as the drive for
creating the QSYS working diskettes and it's size is insufficient
to hold all of the files to be located on one of the other drives.
Recovery: Take the 'Retry ' option and re-specify the QSYS file
locations, requesting that fewer files be located on the
drive suspected of causing the error. The amount of free
space which must be recovered is indicated in the message.
ERR - 10
SYSTEM ERRORS
IPL001 - RESOURCES UNAVAILABLE
The required QSYS files are not present in the drives or
directories in which they where originally installed by the QSYS
INSTALLATION AID.
Recovery: If the QSYS files are located on removable media, then
you will be prompted in insert the correct diskette and press
<ENTER>. Execution of the AUTOEXEC.BAT will resume.
If the QSYS files are located on fixed media, then this
error is considered to be unrecoverable, and execution of the
AUTOEXEC.BAT is terminated. In this case, the QSYS files have
been moved from the locations assigned during installation,
and the QSYS system has been rendered unusable. The files
must be copied back to the correct drive and directories, or
QSYS must be re-installed.
IPL002 - QINT FAILURE
A failure occurred during the initialization of QINT. Either
no base menu specification was passed from the command line in the
AUTOEXEC.BAT file, or the specification was invalid.
Recovery: AUTOEXEC.BAT execution is aborted and control is passed
to the DOS command processor. The base menu specification
must be corrected, or QSYS must be re-installed.
IPL003 - QINT FAILURE
A failure occurred during the initialization of QINT. The
system environment space contained no 'QSPEC= ' parameter, or the
parameter was invalid. This parameter is used to locate QSYS.SYS.
Recovery: AUTOEXEC.BAT execution is aborted and control is passed
to the DOS command processor. The 'SET QSPEC= ' statement in
the AUTOEXEC.BAT file must be corrected, or QSYS must be
re-installed.
IPL004 - QINT FAILURE
An error occurred during the initialization of QINT while
attempting to open, read, or close QSYS.SYS. The most probable
cause is that QSYS.SYS was not found.
Recovery: AUTOEXEC.BAT execution is aborted and control is passed
to the DOS command processor. QSYS.SYS must be copied back to
the directory path indicated by 'QSPEC= ' in the environment,
or QSYS must be re-installed.
ERR - 11
SYSTEM ERRORS
IPL005 - QINT FAILURE
During initialization, QINT has determined that it has been
previously installed, or that another resident program conflicts
with it's operation. The most probable cause of this error is that
another program was executed before the QSYS startup procedure.
Recovery: AUTOEXEC.BAT execution is aborted and control is passed
to the DOS command processor. If AUTOEXEC.BAT execution was
not initiated from a DOS boot, then simply re-IPL the system.
Otherwise, QSYS may have been installed incorrectly, or one
of the device drivers specified in CONFIG.SYS conflicts with
the operation of QSYS.
ERR - 12
Q_GEN.DOC
GENERAL INFORMATION
This section will describe functions common to all of the QSYS
system programs, including the INSTALLATION AID. This section should
be read by all users. It may provide a more clear understanding of
the installation and operation of the system in conjunction with the
more specific sections detailing each function. If a term is used in
this documentation with which you are unfamiliar, you may find it in
the GLOSSARY.
SECURITY SYSTEM
The QSYS security system provides a means of controlling access
to the various functions provided by the QSYS system. It is configured
through the use of security levels assigned to each user, task, and
menu.
Security levels might be thought of as the amount of restriction
which QSYS will provide for a given function. For example, a security
level of 9, assigned to a user, provides the most restriction, and a
security level of 0 provides no restrictions. A user with a security
level of 0 is known as a primary user. Primary users have access to
all functions of the system without restriction. Some QSYS functions,
for example, the QSYS Command Line and most system configuration func-
tions, are only accessible to primary users. There is no limitation,
other than the maximum of 24 QSYS users, on the number of users which
can be assigned primary user status.
Each user selects a private password for access to the system.
Passwords are never displayed, even while they are being entered. They
may be changed at any time, but only by the owning user. Each user is
assigned a security level by a primary user. No user has the ability to
upgrade his or her own security level.
Task and menu security levels are similar to user security levels.
A task with a security level of 0 is only accessible to primary users,
and a task with a security level of 9 is accessible to all users. In
general, a task or menu may only be accessed by users with a security
level equal to, or below the task or menu security level.
The message system treats all users equally. No user, including a
primary user, can access the private messages of another user, or the
private messages between users.
Details pertaining to the function of the security system, as
it applies to each area of QSYS operation, will be discussed in the
appropriate sections of this document.
GEN - 1
GENERAL INFORMATION
SCREEN FORMAT
======================================
= TITLE = <-- Line 1
=------------------------------------= <-- Line 2
= = <--
= Data Area = Lines 3-22
= = <--
=------------------------------------= <-- Line 23
= PROMPT LINE = <-- Line 24
= STATUS/MESSAGE LINE = <-- Line 25
======================================
All QSYS programs share a common display interface. Above is an
abbreviated diagram outlining the significant areas of the display
screen as used by QSYS.
The TITLE line is used to identify the current screen name. It
may be the name of a menu or the name of the function currently being
performed. The screens to some similar functions may be identical
except for the TITLE.
The DATA AREA of the screen is, as you might expect, used for
displaying the details of the function being performed. For example,
in the Menu System, this area would be used to display the current
menu. Similarly, in the Message System, this is where the text of the
message is entered and displayed. Lines 2 and 23 are usually used as
separators between the the separate sections of the screen.
The PROMPT line is used to display a prompt indicating the action
that currently needs to be taken by the user. The prompt may contain
information pertaining to the allowable entries in the current field,
or it may be used for inputting data or commands. Some error messages
will display the available recovery options on this line.
The STATUS/MESSAGE line serves a dual purpose. Normally, this line
indicates which functions are currently available, and the keys which
are used to activate them. QSYS may also use this line to display a
message to the user. The message may be of an informational nature, or
it may be the result of an error. Refer to the SYSTEM MESSAGES section
of this document for more information on messages.
GEN - 2
GENERAL INFORMATION
QSYS EDITOR
QSYS utilizes a keyboard input routine capable of functions
including the input of only certain classes of keys, controlling the
keyboard shift, formatting the input data, controlling the display
attribute of the input field, and measuring the time span between
keystrokes. It can manage field sizes of 0 characters a full page of
text, and offers the user control similar to that of the editor used
in the BASIC interpreter. This section will describe the use of, and
the keys supported by the QSYS editor.
- Cursor Control Keys
Left Arrow - Moves the cursor one character to the left if not
already at the beginning of the field.
Ctrl-Left - Moves the cursor to the beginning of the previous
word in a field, unless already at the first word,
in which case the cursor is moved to the beginning
of the current word.
Right Arrow - Moves the cursor one character to the right if not
already to the right of the rightmost character in
a field.
Ctrl-Right - Moves the cursor to the beginning of the next word
in a field, unless already at the last word, in
which case the cursor is moved to the end of the
field.
Up Arrow - Moves the cursor to the start of the previous field
if one is present.
Down Arrow - Moves the cursor to the start of the next field if
one is present.
Tab Left - Moves the cursor to the beginning of the field,
unless already at the beginning, in which case it
moves the cursor to the beginning of the previous
field if one is present.
Tab Right - Moves the cursor to the right of the last
significant character of a field, unless already
there, in which case it moves it to the beginning of
the next field if one is present.
Home - Moves the cursor to the beginning of the first
field of a data entry screen.
End - Signals the end of editing on a data entry screen.
GEN - 3
GENERAL INFORMATION
- Editing Keys
Backspace - Erases the character to the left of the cursor,
moves the cursor, the character at the current
cursor position, and all characters to the right
of the cursor position left one character.
Esc - Erases the field and positions the cursor at the
beginning of the field.
Ctrl-End - Erases the character at the cursor position and all
characters to the right of the cursor position
without changing the cursor position.
Ins - Toggle action key. Turns Insert mode on with the
first depression and off with the next. The cursor
size will change to indicate Insert mode. Insert
mode causes all characters entered to be inserted at
the current cursor position.
Del - Deletes the character at the current cursor position
and moves all characters to the right of the cursor
position one character left.
Enter - Terminates editing of the field. The field will be
assumed to contain the value seen on the screen
including any trailing spaces up to the cursor
position.
+ - The long grey ` + ' key on the numeric keypad acts
as a combination of Ctrl-End and Enter. Pressing
this key erases the character at the current cursor
position and all characters to the right of the
cursor and terminates editing of the field.
- Function Keys
The programmed function keys will be referenced as F1 thru F40
where F1 thru F10 are as designated on the keyboard. The Shift keys add
a value of 10, the Ctrl key adds a value of 20, and the Alt key adds a
value of 30 to the values marked on the keys. In most cases, the active
function keys will be displayed at the bottom of the screen.
- Special Purpose Keys
The Ctrl-Break sequence serves a special purpose in all of the
QSYS system programs. This key can be used in any input field, at any
time to sign-off the current user. However, caution should be exercised
in it's usage, since it's effect is immediate, and no system action is
taken to complete the current task. This key usually has the effect of
aborting the current function.
GEN - 4
Q_GLOS.DOC
GLOSSARY
BASE MENU
The first or default menu used by QSYS. This is the menu to which
all users initially sign-on after system startup.
CHILDREN
Menus which are accessed from other menus. Refer to the example
given in the 'MENU SYSTEM ' section.
GENERATION
A group of menus which includes the PARENT menu and it's CHILDREN.
Refer to the example given in the 'MENU SYSTEM ' section.
IPL
Initial Program Load, sometimes referred to as boot-up. Starting
the system from a power-off condition or a system reset such as the
Ctrl/Alt/Del sequence.
JOBQ
A batch file of user tasks to be performed in sequence. May
consist of programs, DOS commands or other batch files.
MSGQ
An area in storage containing pointers to pending messages for
the current system date.
PARENT
A menu which contains references to other menus. Refer to the
example given in the 'MENU SYSTEM ' section.
PRIMARY USER
A user with a security level of 0.
WINCHESTER DRIVE
A fixed disk. A storage device from which the media cannot be
removed.
GLOS - 1
Q_INST.DOC
QSYS INSTALLATION
The QSYS INSTALLATION AID was designed to minimize the task of
installing QSYS. For more standard equipment configurations, all that
may be necessary to install QSYS is for the installer to know his or
her name, and be able to make up a 5 letter password. Default options
will be provided, based upon information gathered by the configuration
program, for every other required field, and can be accepted by simply
pressing the <ENTER> key. The installation procedure will prompt for
any operator action necessary.
The less standard your equipment configuration, the more complex
the task of installation will become. The QSYS INSTALLATION AID has
facilities for handling very complex installations, but greater demands
are made on the knowledge of the installer when the complexity of the
installation increases.
Read the entire QSYS INSTALLATION section before attempting the
first installation. This will help you to understand the capabilities
of the installation procedure. It may also be helpful to run through
the installation once or twice before planning the final configuration.
It is possible to preview the installation without building any files
if the installation is aborted, by pressing Ctrl-Break, before termin-
ating step 2j. The installation procedure can be executed as often as
desired.
On a diskette system, the same diskettes may be used to install
QSYS many times. They will be reformatted during each installation.
Installation of QSYS on a PC-XT, or any system using a Winchester
disk involves a little more risk. It is imperative that your disk is
backed-up before attempting installation. If a trial installation is
made, installing the QSYS files in a new sub-directory will be helpful
if deletion of the QSYS files becomes necessary. It is not necessary
to create the sub-directory prior to installation. The installation
procedure will create sub-directories as needed. Be aware that all of
the startup files, AUTOEXEC.BAT, CONFIG.SYS, ANSI.SYS, MEMBRAIN.SYS,
and MODE.COM, plus any user defined files, will be located in the root
directory.
If an error occurs during the installation procedure, an error
message will be displayed indicating the type of error that occurred.
Refer to the SYSTEM MESSAGES section for a detailed explanation of the
cause of the error, and possible recovery actions.
BEFORE INSTALLATION
- Backup Your System
If you are installing QSYS on a Winchester drive, it is YOUR
responsibility to backup your present files. Also, make sure that the
root directory and any already existing directories into which QSYS
files will be copied, contain no files with filenames that match the
filenames of any of the QSYS files. Refer to the list of QSYS files
in the PREFACE of this document.
INST - 1
QSYS INSTALLATION
- Backup QSYS
Use the following procedure to make a working copy of the QSYS
INSTALLATION and QSYS DOCUMENTATION diskettes. These copies will not
only provide a measure of insurance against loss, but are necessary
to provide a copy of DOS and the DOS utility files that are required
by the installation procedure.
1) FORMAT a Blank Diskette
Use the 'FORMAT ' command and include the '/S ' parameter
so that DOS will be copied to the formatted diskette.
2) COPY the QSYS Files
Use the 'COPY ' command with the global filename of '*.* '
to copy all of the QSYS files from the QSYS installation diskette
to the diskette formatted in step 1.
** Do NOT use 'DISKCOPY ' **
3) COPY DOS Files
Copy the 'FORMAT.COM ', 'MODE.COM ', and 'ANSI.SYS ' files
to the diskette formatted in step 1.
4) Backup QSYS DOCUMENTATION
Use 'COPY *.* ' or 'DISKCOPY ' to make a backup copy of the
QSYS DOCUMENTATION diskette.
Store the original copies of the QSYS INSTALLATION and QSYS
DOCUMENTATION diskettes in a safe place. All future references will
be to the working copies made in the previous steps.
INST - 2
QSYS INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION
1) USER CONFIGURATION FILES
The following preliminary steps in the installation process are
necessary to ensure that the QSYS configuration program is able to
correctly evaluate all system equipment to be used with QSYS. This
is especially important in the area of storage devices, such as
device drivers for other than IBM Winchester drives, emulated disks
other than MEMBRAIN, which is included with QSYS, and other devices
that require a 'DEVICE= ' entry in 'CONFIG.SYS ', or a setup program
to be run as part of the system startup procedure. Any devices that
are not defined when the installation program evaluates the system
equipment may not be usable with QSYS. Steps 1a, 1b, and 1c provide
an interface for user defined CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT entries.
1a) CONFIG.SYS Entries
The QSYS INSTALLATION diskette created in the previous steps
contains a default 'CONFIG.SYS ' file containing the following
entries:
BUFFERS=5
DEVICE=ANSI.SYS
DEVICE=MEMBRAIN.SYS
This file will be used by DOS for configuration information during
the installation procedure, and will then be copied to the QSYS
media for use by DOS when QSYS is IPL'ed. Most installations will
not require additional DOS configuration and may skip this step.
However, if you desire to alter this minimum configuration, the
necessary entries should be copied to a file on the installation
diskette called 'UCONFIG.SYS '. The 'CONFIG.SYS ' file should not
be altered. The following example illustrates how to create this
file.
COPY CON: UCONFIG.SYS 'Type this DOS command
BUFFERS=10 'Enter the necessary entries
'' ' ''
^Z 'Press F6 and <ENTER>
INST - 3
QSYS INSTALLATION
1b) USEREXEC.BAT File
The 'USEREXEC.BAT ' file is a mechanism for introducing user
defined programs into the installation IPL sequence. This file
will be called from the installation 'AUTOEXEC.BAT ', if it exists.
The file specifications and parameters for programs required to
install drivers for storage devices, such as emulated disks, that
will be used in conjunction with QSYS, must be specified in this
file on the installation diskette. The following example shows the
steps necessary to create this file.
COPY CON: USEREXEC.BAT 'Type this DOS command
EXAMPLE.COM 'Enter the necessary entries
'' ' ''
^Z 'Press F6 and <ENTER>
1c) AUTOEXEC.BAT Entries
The QSYS configuration program will create an 'AUTOEXEC.BAT '
file that DOS will execute every time QSYS is booted. Any files
specified in steps 1a and 1b should be copied to the installation
diskette.
In addition, the configuration program will prompt for the
file specifications of programs or batch files that are to be
included in the QSYS startup procedure. The configuration program
will test for the existence of all files specified, and will not
accept internal DOS commands. If this type of entry is desired in
the IPL sequence, a batch file must be created on the installation
diskette in this step, containing these entries. It is not good
practice to specify other than internal DOS commands in a user
batch file, since doing so will hinder the ability of the config-
uration program to correctly evaluate the required free space on
the IPL drive.
In short, any files that will be used in the installation
of QSYS, or in the QSYS startup procedure, must be present on the
installation diskette.
NOTE: It is not possible to define the correct procedure for installing
every possible non-standard device available for the IBM-PC. The above
interfaces are provided to handle most situations, but in some cases,
the installation procedure will have to be modified in order to ensure
that certain devices are usable with QSYS. The key is to be sure that
any device that is to be used with QSYS is installed at the time that
the QSYS INSTALLATION AID performs it's equipment determination.
INST - 4
QSYS INSTALLATION
2) QSYS INSTALLATION AID
The following installation procedure will create all of the system
files that QSYS will require. The configuration program will prompt for
the necessary information. Default data for most fields is available by
leaving the field blank and pressing the <ENTER> key. Any fields that
are not required will automatically be skipped. The up-arrow can be
used to back up to a previous field and change an entry. In extreme
cases, the Ctrl-Break sequence can be used to abort the installation.
If the installation is aborted it must be restarted from step 1.
2a) Re-IPL the System
Insert the backup copy of QSYS created in the previous steps
into drive A. Insert media into all remaining drives if necessary.
Any dual-sided diskette drives should contain diskettes formatted
as 2D diskettes so that the configuration program can correctly
determine the type of drive installed.
Press ' Ctrl,Alt,Del ' or power the system off and then back
on. The installation 'AUTOEXEC.BAT 'will begin execution.
If you created a 'UCONFIG.SYS ' file in the previous steps,
and this is the first time at this step, then proceed to step 2b.
Otherwise, if you created a 'USEREXEC.BAT ' file in the previous
steps, it will be executed now.
2b) System Configuration Check
The configuration program will first check the installed
hardware on your system. This equipment determination assumes
that all hardware configuration switches in your system are set
correctly. If the required hardware, as described in the PREFACE
of this document, is found, then the QSYS logo will appear.
Otherwise, an error message will be posted and the installation
procedure will abort.
2c) Create 'CONFIG.SYS ' File
If you created a 'UCONFIG.SYS ' file in step 1a, then it's
contents and the default 'CONFIG.SYS ' entries will be combined,
the 'UCONFIG.SYS ' file will be deleted, and the configuration
program will auto-IPL the system, restarting the installation with
step 2a. Otherwise, this step is omitted.
INST - 5
QSYS INSTALLATION
2d) Resource Determination
The installation diskette will be checked for the presence
of the files necessary for the installation of QSYS. If any are
missing, an error message will be posted naming the missing file
and the installation will be aborted. If the file named in the
error message was 'CONFIG.SYS ', then the default file will be
recreated during termination of the configuration program and the
installation may be restarted at step 1. Otherwise, the missing
file must be copied to the installation diskette before restarting
the procedure.
2e) Drive Configuration
The configuration program will attempt to determine the type
and size of all installed drives. If an error is encountered due
to a drive not ready condition, the configuration program will
prompt for you to install media in the drive and press <ENTER>.
If the mother board configuration switches in your system indicate
more drives than are actually installed, this prompt may request
media for the non-existent drives. If this occurs, pressing F10
will bypass the test for the erroneous drive. F10 should not be
used to bypass tests for installed drives, since doing so will
render the drive unusable with QSYS.
After the determination is made, a summary of the system
hardware configuration is displayed, with a prompt asking if the
configuration is correct. The determination procedure cannot
distinguish between emulated and hardware drives, except in the
case of MEMBRAIN. If all of the drives installed on your system
have been determined correctly, then press <ENTER> and proceed to
the next step.
If any of your double-sided diskette drives contained single-
sided media, you can change to double-sided media now and press
the up-arrow, causing the drive determination to be repeated.
Entering an 'N ' and pressing <ENTER> will display an arrow
pointing to the configuration entry for the first drive which is
a possible emulated drive with a prompt asking if that particular
drive is an emulated drive. Entering a 'Y ' and pressing <ENTER>
will change the configuration entry to indicate that this drive is
emulated. Pressing <ENTER> alone will repeat the above prompt for
the next possible emulated drive until all possible drives have
been confirmed. The up-arrow may be used to repeat the prompt for
a previous drive. After the prompt is repeated for all possible
drives, you will again be asked if the configuration is correct.
INST - 6
QSYS INSTALLATION
2f) Monitor Type
Attempting to display color on a monochrome display attached
to the Color/Graphics Display Adapter will, in some cases, degrade
resolution, resulting in unreadable characters being displayed.
This parameter will allow QSYS to disable color burst if necessary
in order to provide the highest quality display.
If you have a color monitor connected to your Color/Graphics
Display Adapter, then enter a '1 ' and press <ENTER>. Otherwise,
just press <ENTER> to accept the default of 0.
2g) Primary User
- Primary User Name:
Enter the name that the system will use to distinguish you
from other users. This entry can be up to 10 characters in length.
- Password:
Enter a password to be used for access to the system. It must
be 5 data keys. No control keys or programmed function keys are
allowed. The characters will not be displayed as they are entered.
2h) File Locations
The following prompts will ask you to identify where the
installation procedure should locate the necessary QSYS system
files. Leaving a field blank will result in the configuration
program determining a default, based upon information gathered
in the equipment determination. Any files that are located on
MEMBRAIN will automatically increase the size of MEMBRAIN to
accommodate the added file, and consequently decrease the amount
of available memory for program execution. If the resulting
memory size is insufficient to execute QSYS, then an error will
be posted and you will be given the opportunity to re-specify
the file locations. Similarly, if the total size of the files
located on a particular drive exceeds the space available on
that drive, then an error will be posted and a retry of the file
location specifications will be available.
- QSYS Path:
This field identifies the drive and directory path used to
locate QSYS.EXE, QSYS.SYS, SYSTEM.MNU, and the default locations
for JOBQ.BAT and QLDR.COM. All path parameters are entered in the
format 'd:\directory\directory... '. For example, if QSYS is to
be installed on drive A, in a directory called 'QSYS ' then you
would enter 'A:\QSYS '. If you want it to be installed in the root
directory, then you would enter only 'A:\ '. QSYS must be located
on the drive from which DOS will be booted. Only entries which
specify the drive from which the installation aid was booted, or
a fixed disk, are considered valid.
INST - 7
QSYS INSTALLATION
- QSYS Vol-id:
The Volume Label of the diskette on which the files specified
under QSYS Path will be installed. It can be up to 11 characters
in length. If the QSYS path indicates a fixed disk, this field is
bypassed. A default is given if the field is left blank.
- QSYS Emulated Path:
Entering a path name in this field will cause the path to be
created, if necessary, and QSYS.EXE to be copied to the indicated
emulated drive during 'AUTOEXEC.BAT ' execution. This allows QSYS
to be reloaded very quickly when necessary, but costs memory.
- JOBQ Path:
The drive and directory path used to locate JOBQ.BAT and it's
associated QLDR.COM file. This path must equate to either a fixed
disk or an emulated drive. The default is the root directory of
MEMBRAIN.
- QCNFG Path:
The drive and directory path used to locate the QCNFG.EXE.
The specified drive must equate to a hardware drive. The default
is QSYS' path.
- QCNFG Volid:
The Volume Label of the diskette on which QCNFG.EXE is to be
installed. It can be up to 11 characters in length. If QCNFG path
indicates a fixed disk, then this field is bypassed. A default is
given if necessary.
- QCNFG Emulated Path:
Entering a path name in this field will cause the path to be
created, if necessary, and QCNFG.EXE to be copied to the indicated
emulated drive during 'AUTOEXEC.BAT ' execution. This allows QCNFG
to be reloaded very quickly when necessary, but costs memory.
- QMSG Path:
The drive and directory path used to locate the QMSG.EXE,
QINT.EXE, and MSGS.DAT. The specified drive must equate to a
hardware drive. The default is QSYS' path.
- QMSG Volid:
The Volume Label of the diskette on which QMSG.EXE is to be
installed. It can be up to 11 characters in length. If QMSG path
indicates a fixed disk, then this field is bypassed. A default is
provided if necessary.
INST - 8
QSYS INSTALLATION
- QMSG Emulated Path:
Entering a path name in this field will cause the path to be
created, if necessary, and QMSG.EXE to be copied to the indicated
emulated drive during 'AUTOEXEC.BAT ' execution. This allows QMSG
to be reloaded very quickly when necessary, but costs memory.
2j) User AUTOEXEC.BAT Files
This section allows you to insert a message to be echoed to
the display during 'AUTOEXEC.BAT ' execution on the first line
of each entry, followed by the file specification and parameters
necessary for DOS to execute the programs that were copied to the
installation diskette in step 1c on the next line. Files named in
'USEREXEC.BAT ' in step 1b must be respecified in this step.
The following example installs an in memory spooler during
'AUTOEXEC.BAT ' execution.
==========================================================
= QSYS INSTALLATION AID =
= ====================================================== =
= 1) Loading Print Spooler =
= SPOOLER.EXE parm1,parm2,etc =
= 2) _ =
= =
= 3) =
= ====================================================== =
= Enter User Autoexec Loading Message =
= QSYS 3.00 (C) Copyright 1984 Dennis Lee =
======================================================== =
- User Autoexec Loading Message
This field allows you to enter a remark that will be echoed
to the screen prior to execution of the associated file specified
on the following line. It may be up to 70 characters in length, or
may be omitted.
- User Autoexec File Specification
This field allows the specification of files to be executed
during the QSYS startup procedure. The entire filename and exten-
sion of the file must be specified, followed by any parameters to
be passed to the file. The drive and path for each file is assumed
to be the IPL drive's root directory, and must not be entered.
It is recommended that batch files specified in this field
only contain internal DOS commands. The configuration program will
not correctly evaluate the free space required on the QSYS disks
for files named in a batch file, nor will these files be copied to
the QSYS disks.
INST - 9
QSYS INSTALLATION
BASIC programs specified in this field must be specified in
the format 'BASIC(A).COM filename.ext '. With this type of file,
the configuration program will allocate file space on the QSYS
diskettes only for BASIC(A), not for the file specified in the
parameter of the command, and the file will not be copied to the
QSYS diskettes.
Either entry may be omitted, but if both are left blank, it
is assumed that entry of user autoexec items is complete. Up to
20 messages and/or associated files may be entered, 10 on the
first page, and 10 more on the second. The up-arrow may be used
to back-up to a previous entry or even to the previous screen.
After entry is completed, the installation diskette will be
searched for each specified file. If any of the specified files
are not found, an error message is displayed momentarily, and you
will be asked to correct the missing file specification.
2k) Build QSYS Files
Unless errors are found due to insufficient memory or file-
space, the rest of the installation procedure should run to
completion without intervention, except for prompts to insert
diskettes as needed. The prompts will vary from one installation
to the next, due to differences in system configuration and file
locations. Follow the prompts on the display as the installation
procedure creates the necessary files and installs QSYS on the
proper media.
2l) Installation Housekeeping
After installation of the QSYS files, the installation
procedure will clean up the installation diskette, removing any
temporary files created in the process. Only the QSYS files and
and the DOS files installed in during the BEFORE INSTALLATION
steps should remain.
2m) Re-IPL the System
The last step of the installation procedure instructs you
to press 'Ctrl,Alt,Del ' or power off and then back on. Refer to
the SYSTEM STARTUP section for detailed information on the startup
procedure. Read the AFTER INSTALLATION section.
INST - 10
QSYS INSTALLATION
AFTER INSTALLATION
- Required Operating Files
QSYS will expect that 'COMMAND.COM ' and any versions of BASIC
that will be required to load your programs are present in the root
directory of the drive from which the system is booted. On diskette
systems, these may reside on any available diskette. QSYS will prompt
for these files as they are required in the loading process.
- Default SYSTEM MENU
As a result of the installation procedure, the base menu of the
system was created. This menu was named 'SYSTEM MENU ' and was located
on the same drive and in the same directory as QSYS.EXE. The base menu
initially contains references to the Message System and to the QSYS
Configuration program modules. Although none of the QSYS system files
should be relocated without the aid of the installation procedure, the
menu references may be relocated as desired. Refer to APPENDIX C for
technical information concerning the base QSYS menu.
- MEMBRAIN Configuration
The installation procedure will adjust MEMBRAIN to the minimum
size necessary for operation of the QSYS system in the configuration
that you have specified. It will be configured with 128 bytes/sector,
1 sector/cluster, and the minimum number of directory entries. Refer
to APPENDIX A for detailed instructions on configuring MEMBRAIN to
your specifications. It is not recommended that MEMBRAIN's size be
adjusted downward even though free space may appear to exist. Upward
adjustment will be limited by the amount of available memory in your
system. QSYS may not execute dependably in less than approximately
130K. 'CHKDSK ' can be used to aid in determining the amount of free
memory that may be allocated to MEMBRAIN.
INST - 11
Q_JOBQ.DOC
JOBQ
- JOBQ Description
The JOBQ is a dynamic batch file from which all other programs,
batch files, and commands are located and executed. QSYS executes all
tasks through this facility. The JOBQ can operate in one of two modes,
as controlled from the menu system, using the F18 function key. In
immediate or 'Execute ' mode, any task selected from a menu, or entered
on the QSYS command line, is executed immediately. In batch or 'Queue '
mode, up to 20 tasks selected for execution, are stacked, allowing a
batch of tasks to be executed sequentially with little or no operator
intervention. In either mode, the JOBQ will automatically reload QSYS
after the last task in the queue has terminated.
After the JOBQ is released for execution, a QSYS module called
QLDR.COM provides resource availability services, such as prompting
for media changes as required, supplies the loading services required
for executing batch files and BASIC programs, as well as providing
error recovery routines. QLDR also allows extensive user control over
JOBQ execution, including the ability to re-execute previous tasks,
cancel tasks in the JOBQ awaiting execution, cancel the JOBQ and return
to QSYS, or call the DOS command processor to execute any other task
while the JOBQ is temporarily suspended.
- Special JOBQ Commands
- EXIT
The EXIT command terminates QSYS and passes control to the
DOS command line. QSYS can be restarted by invoking the JOBQ. QSYS
should never be invoked directly, since doing so will disable all
JOBQ execution functions.
- QLDR jt,d:,volid,path,filename.ext,parms
The QLDR command causes QLDR.COM to be invoked from the JOBQ
directly. Refer to 'JOBQ Execution Services ' and APPENDIX B for
detailed information concerning QLDR.
- Use of DOS Batch File Commands and Labels in the JOBQ
Since JOBQ.BAT is a DOS batch file, it is also possible to inter-
mix DOS batch file commands and labels with other tasks, providing
even greater user control. QSYS reserves two labels for it's own use
in the JOBQ. The first consists of the word 'JOB ' plus a number from
00 to 20. The second is the label ':END '. Refer to your DOS manual for
detailed information on the use of DOS batch file commands and labels.
- Use of QLDR.COM in User Batch Files
Refer to APPENDIX B for technical information concerning the use
of QLDR.COM in your own batch files.
JOBQ - 1
JOBQ
- Pre-Release JOBQ Functions
The following functions are available only when the JOBQ is in
'Queue ' mode. These functions are made available to the user through
the JOBQ screen. The JOBQ screen is accessed by pressing F8 at any QSYS
menu. From this screen, tasks in the JOBQ can be viewed, deleted, or
their sequence of execution changed before the JOBQ is released.
Following is a list of the functions available.
- PgUp or PgDn
If more entries are in the JOBQ than can be displayed on one
screen, the PgUp and PgDn keys will allow you to move forward and
backward from page to page as necessary. In the event that JOBQ
entries are deleted to the point that all entries can be displayed
on one screen, the PgUp and PgDn keys will be deactivated.
- F5 Change Sequence
Press F5, enter the current sequence number of the JOBQ
entry to be moved, a dash (-), and then the sequence number you
want it moved to. The JOBQ entry will be removed from it's current
position and inserted immediately before the the designated target
entry. The screen will be updated and the cursor will return to
the command line awaiting the next command.
Any error in the sequence number entries, including an empty
JOBQ entry specified as either source or target will produce an
error message momentarily and then the sequence number entries
may be retried.
- F6 Delete
After pressing F6, QSYS will prompt for the sequence number
of the JOBQ entry you would like to delete. After you enter the
sequence number, QSYS will echo the number you have entered and
ask you to confirm the entry. If the number is correct enter a
'Y ' and press <ENTER>. The entry will be deleted, the screen
updated, and the cursor will return to the command line awaiting
the next command. If the number is not correct, any entry besides
'Y ' will cancel the delete command.
If an invalid sequence number is entered, an error message
will be displayed momentarily and then the sequence number entry
may be retried.
- F38 Release JOBQ
Passes control to DOS for execution of the JOBQ.
- F10 End
Returns you to the menu system.
JOBQ - 2
JOBQ
- JOBQ Execution Services
A QSYS module named QLDR.COM provides services for checking the
existence of all files that are placed in the JOBQ before allowing DOS
to attempt execution. This allows QSYS to prompt for proper media when
possible, and to alert the operator of missing resources and provide
error recovery for those conditions that would otherwise cause JOBQ
task execution to be aborted without user control. If an error occurs,
a message indicating the operator action that needs to be taken, or
indicating the condition that caused the halt is posted, followed by
the following menu.
1) Re-run Previous Task
2) Cancel Current Task
3) Cancel the Batch File
4) DOS Command Processor
Press <ENTER> to Continue or Select Option: _
Note that option 4 is only available to primary users. Options are
selected from the menu by entering the number of the desired option.
The <ENTER> key is not required for options 1-4. All other keys are
ignored. The following chart explains each available option.
<ENTER> - Continues execution of the JOBQ, after the error condition
which caused the halt is corrected.
1 - Re-executes the previous task in the JOBQ.
2 - Cancels the current task, and continues execution of the
JOBQ with the next task in the queue.
3 - Cancels the entire JOBQ and returns to the QSYS menu system.
4 - Temporarily suspends JOBQ execution, and loads the DOS
Command Processor. While in the DOS command processor, any
program, batch file, or DOS command can be executed. Entering
the 'EXIT ' command will exit DOS, re-display the option menu,
and allow further option selection, including continuation of
the JOBQ at the point at which it was interrupted.
- JOBQ Execution Control
All options available due to an error condition, as explained
under 'JOBQ Execution Services ', are also available through a user
JOBQ interrupt mechanism provided in QLDR. Pressing the Esc key as a
task is terminating, will activate the user interrupt. QLDR will post
a message, indicating that the halt is a result of a user request,
followed by the option menu. All options listed on the menu are avail-
able. It is possible to move forward or backward several tasks within
the JOBQ by selecting the appropriate option and immediately pressing
the Esc key again to re-display the option menu. Each time QLDR halts
it will display the current task to be performed, allowing the user to
track the current position within the JOBQ.
JOBQ - 3
Q_MENU.DOC
MENU SYSTEM
- DESCRIPTION
The QSYS menu system is the interface between the system users
and DOS. It provides a means of cataloging any task that DOS 2.X is
capable of executing. A task can be a program, batch file, or DOS
command. The menu system allows any task to be executed immediately,
or placed in the JOBQ for execution as a batch, by simply selecting
an option from any of an unlimited number of user defined menus. The
menu system is tree-structured in design, similar to the DOS tree-
structured directory system. This design allows totally free-form
creation of menus to suite almost any need. The following example
menu system illustrates the tree-structured concept.
.....................
: SYSTEM MENU :
:-------------------:
: Parent of :
: MENU 1,2 & 3 :
:...................:
__________________________|__________________________
..........|.......... ..........|.......... ..........|..........
: MENU 1 : : MENU 2 : : MENU 3 :
:-------------------: :-------------------: :-------------------:
: Child of SYSTEM : : Child of SYSTEM : : Child of SYSTEM :
: Parent of MENU 1A : : Parent of 2A & 2B : : Parent of MENU 3A :
:...................: :...................: :...................:
..........|.......... | ..........|..........
: MENU 1A : | : MENU 3A :
:-------------------: | :-------------------:
: Child of MENU 1 : | : Child of MENU 3 :
: : | : :
:...................: | :...................:
________________|________________
..........|.......... ..........|..........
: MENU 2A : : MENU 2B :
:-------------------: :-------------------:
: Child of MENU 2 : : Child of MENU 2 :
: : : :
:...................: :...................:
The above example illustrates only a small part of one possible
structure. The basic concept of the QSYS menu system is the relation-
ship between 'parent ' menus and their 'children '. This relationship
forms a 'generation '. For example, in the illustration above, the
SYSTEM MENU is the 'parent ' of MENU 1, MENU 2, and MENU 3. Together
these menus form a 'generation '. Even though MENU 1,2, and 3 each have
'children ' of their own, the children are outside of SYSTEM MENU's
generation, and may not be directly affected by changes to SYSTEM MENU.
Similarly, MENU 2A and MENU 2B are children of MENU2, and together
these three menus form a separate generation. All of the generations
put together form a sort of menu tree. This relationship accounts for
the term 'tree-structured '.
MENU - 1
MENU SYSTEM
- TASK SELECTION
The primary function of the menu system is to provide the user
with a quick and easy method of loading and executing tasks. This
function is accomplished in one of two ways. Once a task has been
defined on a QSYS menu, using the MENU EDITOR, it can be selected for
execution by simply entering the number to the left of the task name.
In addition to this method, tasks may be executed directly from
the QSYS command line, which is available on every menu. Refer to the
detailed explanation of the QSYS Command Line in this section for more
information concerning the use of the command line.
All tasks selected, regardless of which method is used, are
executed through the JOBQ either in immediate mode or in batch mode.
With the JOBQ in 'Queue ' or batch mode, an informational message will
be momentarily displayed indicating the status of the task in the JOBQ.
In 'Execute ' or immediate mode, the task is placed in the JOBQ, and
QSYS immediately passes control back to DOS for execution of the JOBQ.
Refer to the JOBQ section for detailed information concerning the JOBQ
and task execution control.
- MENU SELECTION
The selection of menus is accomplished similarly to the selection
of tasks. A menu that has been pre-defined using the MENU EDITOR, can
be selected from it's parent menu by entering the number to the left
of the menu name, while viewing the parent menu. If a change of media
is required to access the selected menu, QSYS will prompt for it by
volume label. The name of the menu, as displayed on the parent menu,
will be used in the title line at the top of the selected menu.
A menu can also be accessed directly from the QSYS command line by
entering the drive, path, and filename of the menu. In this case, QSYS
cannot prompt for a change of diskettes, if one is required. Instead,
an error message indicating that the file was not found is issued, and
the request is ignored. If the requested menu is found, the filename
will be used in the title line followed by the word 'MENU '.
Regardless of how a menu was accessed, the F9 key will return you
to the parent menu, unless the current menu is the base menu. F19 will
return you to the base QSYS menu from any other menu.
MENU - 2
MENU SYSTEM
- AVAILABLE FUNCTIONS
The bottom line of every menu lists, in an abbreviated format,
most of the functions available from the menu system. Following is a
short explanation of each function, and a reference to the section
containing more detailed information on the use of that function.
KEY FUNCTION DESCRIPTION
--- --------------------
F7 If messages are available, pressing F7 will display a
summary of the MSGQ. Otherwise, an informational message
will be displayed to inform the user that the MSGQ is
empty. Refer to the MSGQ section for more information.
F8 If tasks have been placed in the JOBQ, then pressing
F8 will display the contents of the JOBQ and activate
the JOBQ functions. Otherwise, an informational message
is displayed to inform the user that the JOBQ is empty.
Refer to the JOBQ section for more information.
F9 Returns to the current menu's parent menu. If this menu
has no parent, then the request is ignored.
F10 Signs-off the current user and returns to the Clock-
Calendar.
F18 This is a toggle action key which toggles the current
mode of the JOBQ. The current mode is displayed on line
25 as either 'F18 Execute ', if the JOBQ is in immediate
mode, or 'F18 Queue ' if tasks selected for execution
are to be executed as a batch. Refer to the JOBQ section
for more information.
F19 Returns to the base QSYS menu, regardless of the current
position in the menu system.
F39 Invokes the MENU EDITOR, if the current user has primary
user security. This option is not displayed on line 25.
Refer to the MENU EDITOR section for more information.
F48 If tasks have been sent to the JOBQ, then pressing F48
will release the JOBQ for execution. Otherwise, an
informational message is momentarily displayed, and the
request is ignored. Refer to the JOBQ section for more
information.
MENU - 3
MENU SYSTEM
- QSYS COMMAND LINE
The QSYS command line is similar to the DOS command line. It
provides a means of executing tasks that are not defined in the menu
system. Any DOS command that can be executed from the DOS command line
can be entered on the QSYS command line. In addition, batch commands
and labels may be entered on the QSYS command line for use in the JOBQ.
Refer to the JOBQ section for information concerning the use of DOS
batch file commands and labels in the JOBQ.
Since any task or menu can be directly accessed from the command
line, it is necessary that the QSYS security system assume that all
tasks and menus accessed in this manner have a security level of 0.
This restricts the use of the QSYS command line to only primary users.
The format of commands entered on the QSYS command line is the
same as that of the DOS command line with a couple of exceptions. The
following example will illustrate these differences.
- Executing '.COM ', '.EXE ', or '.BAT ' Files
EXAMPLE:
Suppose that you wanted to execute a program named 'PROG1.EXE '
from drive A, in a sub-directory named 'SUBDIR1 '.
On the DOS command line you would insert the proper diskette, if
necessary, and enter the following commands.
CD A:\SUBDIR1 ' Change to the proper directory
PROG1 ' Execute the program
On the QSYS command line you would enter the following command.
A:\SUBDIR1\PROG1.EXE
QSYS will notify you if either the sub-directory or the requested
program is not found, and allow you to change media as necessary. QSYS
will then change to the indicated sub-directory, and load the requested
program. The significant difference is, that all requests for executing
programs, batch files, and external DOS commands, that are not resident
in the root directory of the default drive, are entered in the format
illustrated below.
d:\directory\filename.ext parameters
| | | |
| | | Parameters to be passed
| | Filename and extension
| Directory path
Drive
MENU - 4
MENU SYSTEM
NOTES:
1) QSYS will always assume the default drive, if one is not
specified, except when loading 'COMMAND.COM ', 'BASIC.COM ',
or 'BASICA.COM ', which are assumed to be on the drive from
which QSYS was booted, regardless of which drive is the
default.
2) QSYS will assume the root directory, if one is not specified,
regardless of which directory was last used. The directory path
may include multiple sub-directory names, but must always be
specified starting at the root directory.
3) QSYS will assume an extension of '.BAT ', if one is not
specified. Therefore, it is good practice to always specify a
filename extension.
4) Note 3 does not apply to external DOS commands. QSYS knows, and
will automatically add the proper extension, if necessary, to
all utilities supplied with DOS.
- Executing BASIC Programs
The format of commands necessary to load BASIC programs remains
identical to that of the DOS command line, since the above conventions
are also used by DOS. It is important to note however, that QSYS will
assume that BASIC or BASICA, whichever is specified in the command,
will always reside in the root directory of the drive from which DOS
was booted. The following example illustrates the format used for
executing BASIC programs.
EXAMPLE:
Suppose that you wanted to execute the BASIC program 'PROG2.BAS '
from drive B, in a sub-directory named 'SUBDIR2 ', that required BASICA
(advanced BASIC).
On either the QSYS or DOS command lines you would enter the
following command.
BASICA B:\SUBDIR2\PROG2
Again, QSYS will assume that 'BASICA.COM ' can be found in the
root directory of the drive from which DOS was booted, and no drive
or directory path should be specified.
NOTES:
1) QSYS will assume an extension of '.BAS ' for BASIC programs,
unless one is specified.
2) The '.COM ' extension for BASIC or BASICA need not be entered.
MENU - 5
MENU SYSTEM
- MENU EDITOR
The MENU EDITOR provides functions for adding and deleting tasks
from the currently displayed menu, as well as for creating new menus
and deleting existing menus from the menu system.
The MENU EDITOR is accessed by pressing F39 (Ctrl-F9) at any menu.
Only primary users are allowed access to the MENU EDITOR. This is
necessary to prevent unauthorized access to existing tasks or menus by
creating a duplicate entry with a lower security level.
Upon entering the MENU EDITOR, the title line will display the
current menu name, plus the word 'EDITOR ' to identify the function
currently being performed. You will be prompted to enter the selection
number of the menu item to be edited.
- Task or Menu Descriptors
Before discussing the functions available in the editor, it is
important that you understand what kind of information is associated
with a menu entry. The following paragraphs describe each of the four
fields that make up a task or menu descriptor.
MENU NAME:
This is the name of the task or menu as it is to appear on
the menu. It may be up to 30 characters long, and any displayable
characters may be used, including graphics characters. For tasks,
this name describes the task that is performed when this menu
entry is selected for execution. It has no meaning to QSYS. For
menus, this name is used by QSYS for the title line of the menu
when displayed.
FILESPEC:
This field describes to QSYS, the drive, directory path, and
filename of the task or menu file that this menu entry describes.
The format for this entry is the same as that of the QSYS command
line. A menu file entry is distinguished from a task entry by the
use of an extension of '.MNU ' on the filename. If this descriptor
describes another menu file, then a filespec indicating the use
of an emulated drive will result in an error. QSYS will not allow
it's menus to be located on emulated drives. Up to 127 characters
may be used to describe the filespec and associated parameters.
Refer to QSYS COMMAND LINE in this section for details about file
specifications.
MENU - 6
MENU SYSTEM
VOLUME ID:
If the drive specified in the filespec entry indicates
removable media, such as a diskette drive, then QSYS will prompt
for the volume label of the media on which this file can be
located. This allows QSYS to prompt for the proper media by name
if the file is not found, thus relieving the users from having to
remember the location of files cataloged in the QSYS menu system.
Entering the global search character '* ', will tell QSYS not to
test for the Volume ID of the media associated with this file,
allowing the same file to be accessed from different media. This
should only be used if necessary, since it disables QSYS' ability
to prompt for the required media by name.
Up to 11 characters may be used in the Volume ID. Any volume
label that is valid in DOS may be used in this field. QSYS will
not allow this field to be left blank if the specified drive uses
removable media.
SECURITY LEVEL:
This is the security level required by the active user to
access this menu entry. This field allows restricted access to
tasks or even entire menus to those users with a security level
equal to or below the security level specified.
Refer to SECURITY SYSTEM in the PREFACE for a description of
the QSYS security system.
- General Information
Once the MENU EDITOR has been entered using F39, QSYS will prompt
for the number of the menu entry to be edited. Pressing F10 in this
field will terminate the editor and return you to task selection mode
and the command line. Selecting a menu entry, while in editor mode,
begins editing of that entry, and the functions available are covered
in detail in the following sub-sections.
Whenever a task or menu descriptor is either added to a menu, or
or an existing descriptor is edited, QSYS will prompt for the fields
that make up the task or menu descriptor. The up-arrow may be used to
back up to a previously entered field, or out of the selected entry.
Simply pressing the <ENTER> key will proceed to the next field without
altering the contents of the current field. As in all QSYS data fields,
what you see on the screen is what you've got in the field, but no data
is actually changed in the menu file until the 'SECURITY LEVEL ' field
has been entered. This allows changes to an entry to be nullified by
backing out of the entry using the up-arrow.
MENU - 7
MENU SYSTEM
- Adding Descriptors
A task or menu descriptor is added to the currently displayed menu
by selecting a blank menu entry and entering the descriptor fields as
QSYS prompts for them. After the last field has been entered, QSYS will
update the menu file to include the added descriptor, and prompt for
the next menu entry to be edited.
Note that adding a descriptor for a new menu does not create the
menu. After the descriptor has been added, proceed to 'Creating a New
Menu ' for the steps necessary to create the menu file.
- Editing Existing Descriptors
A task or menu descriptor can be edited (changed) by selecting
it's menu entry number. QSYS will display the current contents of each
field and allow changes. After the last field has been updated, the
new descriptor will be written to the menu file.
Note that altering a descriptor will not change the location of
a task or menu file. The actual location of the file must be changed
using the DOS 'COPY ' and 'ERASE ' commands from the command line to
copy the file to it's new location, and to delete the old file. If
the descriptor is a menu descriptor, refer to 'Relocating a Menu '.
- Deleting Descriptors
A task or menu descriptor is deleted by selecting it's menu entry
number and blanking the 'MENU NAME ' field by pressing the '+ ' key on
the numeric keypad or by holding down the Ctrl key and pressing the End
key while the cursor is positioned at the beginning of the field. QSYS
will then ask for confirmation before deleting the entry. Entering a
'Y ' will delete the descriptor. Any other key will cause QSYS to re-
display the original contents of the field and abort the delete. Note
that filling the field with spaces does NOT blank the field.
Note also, that deleting a descriptor does not delete the task or
menu file. Refer to 'Deleting a Menu ' if deletion of a menu file is
desired. Tasks must be erased using the DOS 'ERASE ' command from the
command line.
- Changing the Current Menu
Since the editor assumes that selection of a menu entry is for the
purpose of editing the descriptor, a mechanism is provided for changing
the current menu without exiting the editor. This is accomplished by
first selecting the desired menu file's descriptor from the current
menu, inserting the media containing the menu file, if necessary, and
pressing the F9 Menu key. In the event that the requested menu file is
not found, the editor will ask if you want to create this menu. Type
'N ' to abort the create procedure and retry the operation using the
correct media.
MENU - 8
MENU SYSTEM
- Creating a New Menu
Creating a new menu requires that the descriptor has already been
added to the current menu using the procedure outlined under 'Adding
Descriptors '. After this procedure has been performed, select the
descriptor for editing, insert the media to contain the new menu file,
if necessary, and press the F9 Menu key. QSYS will check the directory
of the target drive for any files whose names match the requested menu
name. If a file is found, the create procedure is aborted, and QSYS
will attempt make this file the current menu file. If no matching files
are found, then QSYS will momentarily display a message indicating this
fact and ask you to confirm that the new menu file should be created.
Responding to the prompt with a 'Y ' will create the new menu file, and
the newly created file will become the current menu. Any other response
will cancel the create procedure and editing of the current menu will
resume.
- Deleting a Menu
The current menu may be deleted by pressing the F6 Delete key only
after all descriptors have been deleted using the procedure discussed
under 'Deleting Descriptors '. QSYS will ask for confirmation before
deleting the requested menu. Any response except 'Y ' will abort the
delete procedure. After deletion of a menu, the parent menu will become
the current menu.
The base menu cannot be deleted under any circumstances from
within QSYS. Refer to APPENDIX C for information concerning changing
the base menu.
- Relocating a Menu
QSYS Version 3.0X does not directly support the relocation of task
or menu files. Extreme caution should be exercised in the relocation of
menu files. Parent menus cannot be safely relocated, since pressing F9
at any of the children will result in QSYS attempting to back up to a
non-existent member of that generation of menus. Entire branches in the
menu system's tree-structure could be rendered unreliable.
It is possible to relocate a parent menu file by recreating it,
and all of it's children. It should only be necessary to recreate one
generation of menus in order to preserve the integrity of the menu
system.
MENU - 9
Q_MSG.DOC
MESSAGES
- Description
The QSYS message system provides personal calendar functions for
each QSYS user, as well as facilities for message exchange between
users. All messages are confidential between the message sender and
the intended recipient of the message. No other user, including the
primary users, are allowed access to messages not intended for them.
Up to five 'targets ' may be specified per message. A 'target ' is a
group of fields specifying the recipient of the message, the date and
time that the message is due, and a frequency, used to automatically
update the target date and time, once the message has been displayed.
The five target specifications may, for example, be used to send the
same message to five different users simultaneously, or to the same
user at five different dates and times, if desired. Each message may
contain up to three lines of text. Information indicating the sender
of the message, and the date and time that the message was sent or
last updated is maintained by the system. QMSG.EXE provides routines
for entering and editing messages, displaying and previewing messages,
reorganizing the message file, and updating the MSGQ. Refer to the
MSGQ section for information pertaining to the contents of the MSGQ.
QSYS also incorporates an interrupt driven message alarm system,
to allow monitoring of the MSGQ concurrently with all other system
tasks. QSYS will sound a subtle, but distinctive tone once per minute
while messages are due. The alarm system is designed not to interrupt
the use of the speaker by other applications. QINT.EXE provides the
necessary routines for initialization of the MSGQ, and for all MSGQ
monitoring and alarm functions.
- QMSG.EXE Loading Options
QMSG incorporates it's own function menu, allowing access to all
message system functions from within the program. It is also possible
to access each function directly by passing the menu option number to
QMSG using a command line parameter. For example, 'DISPLAY MESSAGES '
is option 1 on the Message Menu. The message display function can be
directly accessed, bypassing the Message Menu, by appending a '1 ' to
the command line used to load QMSG.EXE. This is illustrated in the
default base QSYS menu created by the installation procedure. Refer to
QSYS COMMAND LINE and MENU EDITOR in the MENU SYSTEM section for more
information on QSYS command and filespec format.
- Common Editing Features
All cursor control and editing keys, described in QSYS EDITOR in
the GENERAL INFORMATION section, are active while entering or editing
a message. In particular, the <End> key can be used in any data field
to terminate the editing function and update the message file. All data
is checked for validity as it is entered. If invalid data is entered,
an error message will be momentarily displayed on line 25, and QMSG
will force re-entry of the field.
MSG - 1
MESSAGES
- Message Data Fields
Before discussing the functions available in the message system,
it is necessary to understand the fields that make-up a message record.
Following, is an explanation of the contents of each of these fields.
RECIPIENT
The name of the QSYS user for which this message is intended.
DATE
The date on which the recipient, named in the associated
target entry, is to be notified of the message. May be entered
in any valid DOS format, but must be equal to, or greater than,
the current system date.
TIME
The time of day, in 24 hour format, at which the recipient,
named in the associated target entry, is to be notified of the
message. May be entered in any valid DOS format. However, this
field, and the associated date, must not be prior to the current
system date and time.
FREQUENCY
The frequency at which the recipient, named in the associated
target entry, is to be notified of the message. The frequency is
entered as a number, up to three digits, followed by a time period
specifier. The following table shows the valid time periods.
MN - Minutes
HR - Hours
DY - Days
WK - Weeks
MO - Months
YR - Years
For example, '3DY ' would increment the target date which caused
the message to be due, by three days when the associated message
was displayed by the recipient using the DISPLAY function. An
entry of '10WK ' would automatically make the message come due
in another 10 weeks after being displayed. Time periods may not
be combined. A blank frequency field will cause the associated
target entry to be deleted when the message is displayed.
MESSAGE
The actual text of the message. Up to three lines of text
can be entered. The keyboard will automatically be shifted into
lower case for this field.
MSG - 2
MESSAGES
- MESSAGES MENU
The Messages Menu currently contains the following 5 options.
1) DISPLAY MESSAGES
Allows the active user to display only those messages
which are currently due.
2) PREVIEW MESSAGES
Allows the active user to display messages that are
pending for the current system date.
3) ENTER NEW MESSAGES
Allows the active user to enter new messages into the
message file.
4) SEARCH-EDIT MESSAGES
Allows the active user to search, delete or update
messages which he has sent or in which he is named as a
recipient.
9) FILE REORGANIZATION
Reorganizes the message file and updates the MSGQ.
QMSG.EXE may be terminated from the Messages Menu by pressing F10.
Ctrl-Break will terminate QMSG, sign-off the current user, and return
to the Clock/Calendar.
- HELP Facility
The F7 key can be used from any command line or data field in
the message system to display a help screen. This screen provides the
current time, in the 24 hour format required for messages, calendar
browsing functions, identical to those of the Clock/Calendar, to aid
in entering message target dates, and a list of the current QSYS user
names. Refer to the CLOCK/CALENDAR section for detailed information
concerning the use of calendar browsing functions.
F10 terminates the help screen, and returns you to the beginning
of the field in which help was requested.
MSG - 3
MESSAGES
- DISPLAY MESSAGES
Displays only those messages which are currently due for the
active user. Pending messages in the MSGQ are not accessible through
this function. If no messages are due for the current user, an infor-
mational system message is posted to the active screen.
- Available Functions
<ENTER> or Ctrl-<ENTER>
Updates the target entry which caused the message to be due,
according to the instructions contained in the 'FREQUENCY ' field.
If no update frequency is specified, the associated target entry
will be deleted. The next message in the MSGQ, due for the active
user, will then be displayed. If no more messages are available,
an informational message is displayed to notify the user, and the
DISPLAY function is terminated.
F5 - EDIT
Allows editing of only the target entry which caused the
message to be due. After the update frequency field has been
updated, or the <End> key is pressed, the EDIT function will
terminate, the message file will be updated, and processing
continues as described in the <ENTER> function.
F7 - HELP
Pressing F7, either on the command line or in a data field,
will invoke the HELP facility.
F9 - MENU
Terminates the DISPLAY function and returns to the Messages
Menu. This option differs from F10 only when the original access
to QMSG was not through the Messages Menu, in which case, F9 will
force a return to the menu so that another selection can be made.
F10 - END
Terminates the DISPLAY function. If QMSG was originally
accessed through the Messages Menu, then the menu will be re-
displayed, otherwise, QMSG is terminated.
MSG - 4
MESSAGES
- PREVIEW MESSAGES
Displays only those messages which are pending or due in the MSGQ
for the active user. If no messages are in the MSGQ for the current
user, an informational system message is posted to the active screen.
- Available Functions
<ENTER>
Proceeds to the next message pending in the MSGQ for the
active user, if one is available. No action is taken on the
currently displayed message.
Ctrl-<ENTER>
Functions as described under 'DISPLAY '. Temporarily switches
to DISPLAY mode for this message.
F5 - EDIT
Functions as described under ' DISPLAY '.
F7 - HELP
Functions as described under ' DISPLAY '.
F9 - MENU
Functions similarly to F10 except that return to the Messages
Menu is mandatory.
F10 - END
Terminates the PREVIEW function. If QMSG was originally
accessed through the Messages Menu, then the menu will be re-
displayed, otherwise, QMSG is terminated.
MSG - 5
MESSAGES
- ENTER NEW MESSAGES
Allows entering of new messages into the message file. If messages
are entered for the current system date, the MSGQ is also updated.
Refer to 'Common Editing Features ' and 'Message Data Fields ' in this
section for more information.
The command level functions described below are available in every
data field.
- Available Functions
F7 - HELP
Functions as described under ' DISPLAY '.
F9 - MENU
Functions similarly to F10 except that return to the Messages
Menu is mandatory.
F10 - END
Pressing F10 will abort the record currently being entered.
Information already entered in the current record will be lost.
If the original access to QMSG was through the Messages Menu, then
the menu will be re-displayed, otherwise, QMSG will be terminated.
MSG - 6
MESSAGES
- SEARCH/EDIT
Allows direct access to existing records in the message file by
record number, or sequential access to the file through the use of
browsing functions similar to those used in the Clock/Calendar. Users
are only allowed access to those records which they entered into the
message file, and those records in which they are named as a recipient.
Once the desired record is displayed, it may be edited, or the record
may be deleted. The MSGQ is automatically updated to reflect any
pertinent changes.
- Available Functions
F1 - RECORD ADVANCE
Advances to the next sequential record in the file to which
the active user is allowed access, unless already at the last
record.
F2 - RECORD BACKSPACE
Record backspaces to a previous record in the file to which
the active user is allowed access, unless already at the first
record.
F3 - SCAN FORWARD
Continuously record advances until another function key is
pressed, or until the end of file. Records to which the active
user is denied access are not displayed.
F4 - SCAN BACKWARD
Continuously record backspaces until another function key
is pressed, or until the beginning of file. Records to which the
active user is denied access are not displayed.
F5 - EDIT
Allows full screen editing of the message record currently
displayed. The updated record is written to the file after the
text of the message is entered or the <End> key is pressed. The
message time/date stamp and name of the sender are updated.
F6 - DELETE
Allows deletion of the currently displayed record from the
message file. The message text is blanked and the record will be
removed from the file during the next file reorganization.
MSG - 7
MESSAGES
- SEARCH/EDIT (continued)
F7 - HELP
Functions as described under ' DISPLAY '.
F9 - MENU
Functions similarly to F10 except that return to the Messages
Menu is mandatory.
F10 - END
Pressing F10 will abort the record being edited. Changes will
not be written to the file. If the SEARCH/EDIT function was orig-
inally accessed through the Messages Menu, then the menu will be
re-displayed. Otherwise, QMSG will be terminated.
- SET DATE & TIME
This screen only appears during the system startup procedure, and
then, only if the system date and time have not already been set by a
clock feature. All line editing functions are activated including the
up and down arrows. F7 HELP is active to assist in setting of the date.
F10 END is disabled.
- FILE REORGANIZATION
This procedure is executed automatically during system startup or
at the first sign-off following a change in the system date. You may,
on occasion, catch this procedure running at midnight when the system
date rolls over to a new day. Reorganization of the message file is
totally automatic and will require no operator intervention unless a
system error occurs. DO NOT INTERRUPT IT !!!
Reorganization of the message file requires free space, equal to
the size of the message file, to be available on any installed drive.
QMSG will evaluate the available space on each installed drive that is
in a ready state, and select the fastest possible device.
This procedure sorts the target entries within each record by date
and time, deleting those target entries containing a recipient name not
currently in the QSYS user list. Records with no active targets are
deleted from the message file. Pointers to those records with a target
date equal to, or before, the current system date are placed in the
MSGQ. If the target date is prior to the system date, then the time is
entered into the MSGQ as '00:00 '. This has the effect of making the
message due immediately. At termination, if this procedure was invoked
from the Messages Menu, then the menu will be re-displayed. Otherwise,
QMSG will be terminated.
MSG - 8
Q_MSGQ.DOC
MSGQ
The MSGQ is a data area in storage initialized by QINT and main-
tained by QMSG. This data area contains information about messages
that will come due during the current system date. A summary of the
contents of the MSGQ can be viewed from either the CLOCK/CALENDAR
or from any menu in the QSYS menu system by pressing F7. You do not
have to be signed-on to view the MSGQ summary. This screen is meant
to be a quick reference window into the MSGQ. Message text cannot be
displayed from this screen.
The MSGQ is listed in chronological order, with those messages
that are currently due, displayed in the highlighted attribute, while
those messages still pending are displayed in the normal foreground
attribute. The summary lists the message recipient, the time, in 24
hour format, that the message is due, and the record number of the
message in the MSGS.DAT file. The message text cannot be displayed
from this screen. An active clock is also displayed on line 23 to aid
in the evaluation of the displayed information. This clock is always
displayed in 24 hour format, regardless of QSYS system clock config-
uration, in order to remain consistent with the message time format.
In the event that no messages are pending for the current date,
pressing F7 will trigger an informational message indicating that the
MSGQ is empty.
- Available Functions
PgUp or PgDn
If more messages are pending than can be displayed on one
screen, the PgUp and PgDn keys will be activated allowing you to
move forward and backward from one page to another as necessary.
F10 will return you to the screen from which you gained access to
the MSGQ screen.
MSGQ - 1
Q_PREF.DOC
PREFACE
QSYS is a set of programs designed to help you integrate your
existing program library into a menu driven system supporting multiple
users who need not have a working knowledge of DOS.
QSYS was originally designed for my own use. I needed a means of
allowing every member of my family the use of a personal computer,
while providing some protection against accidental file modifications
or erasures. QSYS incorporates a security system that probably won't
be effective against an experienced programmer, but will certainly
provide some protection from the usually more dangerous inexperienced
user. If you have children, you'll soon learn it's value.
The other members of my family want to use the computer, but they
don't especially care to read the documentation. They don't know which
diskettes the programs are on, and even if they did, they don't have
the knowledge of DOS necessary to load them. I'm afraid that if they
had to learn DOS to use the computer, they wouldn't use the computer!
QSYS makes it possible for them to select the program they want to run
from a menu. If the program isn't on a diskette already mounted, QSYS
will prompt for it by name. When they finish, they simply terminate the
program and DOS will reload QSYS. If they forget to sign-off, QSYS will
do it for them.
QSYS also incorporates a concurrent message handling system. This
was written mostly for my benefit. I have a terrible memory, and the
message system allows me to keep appointments and pay my bills on time.
It will notify me even if I have the computer tied up doing something
else, as I often do.
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
- IBM PC or PC-XT
QSYS will probably also work on some IBM compatibles, but no
guarantee is made.
- DOS 2.X
QSYS will not work with the previous versions of DOS.
- 192K of Memory
- IBM Compatible Color/Graphics Monitor Adapter
QSYS operates in 80 column mode. You don't need a color
monitor, but will not work with the Monochrome Display Adapter.
- Two Double-sided, Double-density Diskette Drives
or
- A Winchester Disk and One Double-sided Diskette Drive
QSYS supports drives A-Q, but requires at least the minimum
configuration.
PREF - 1
PREFACE
HOW TO GET QSYS
QSYS is made available through Voluntary Support. This means that
I will volunteer to send it to you FREE for evaluation. If you use it,
you should volunteer to send me the suggested $50 contribution.
What this all comes right down to, is that nobody knows the value
of a particular program until they've had time to use it. Most software
is just too complex to evaluate in a store. Voluntary support gives you
the opportunity to evaluate programs on your own system, in conjunction
with software that you already use, and for as long as it takes to make
a good decision. If you use QSYS, then the $50 contribution is cheap!!!
However, if you don't use it, or can't use it, then don't pay for it!
1) Volunteer to send me the $50 contribution and I'll voluntarily
send you (2) diskettes of my very own full of QSYS. Also, I'll
respond to requests for assistance in the installation and use
of QSYS, and offer future releases for a minimal update fee.
2) Volunteer to send me $10 to cover the cost of the necessary
diskettes, mailer, and postage, and I'll volunteer to send you
QSYS to evaluate. If you use it, you can volunteer to send the
additional $40 at your convenience. If you don't like QSYS, at
least you got some diskettes. No support will be made available
without the suggested contribution.
3) Volunteer to send me (2) diskettes with pre-addressed, postage-
paid diskette mailer(s) of your very own, and I'll volunteer to
return them to you full of QSYS to evaluate absolutely FREE! As
with method #2, I won't volunteer my time to support QSYS for
anyone who hasn't volunteered the suggested contribution. Keep
in mind that I'll * GIVE * you a copy to evaluate, but I won't
* PAY * to send it to you. If you select this method to obtain
QSYS, please be sure to include TWO (2) diskettes, complete
with mailer(s) and sufficient return postage.
DENNIS LEE
906 GREENBRIAR LOOP
ROUND ROCK, TX 78664
CompuServe # 70376,452
LIMITED LICENSE
Feel free to distribute unaltered copies of the QSYS installation
and documentation diskettes to friends, enemies, or people you don't
even know, for the purpose of evaluation, as long as you do it FREE!
Anyone incurring an expense in the distribution of QSYS, is granted
permission to recover only the actual expense involved, and then only
when notice is provided that a contribution to the author is requested.
QSYS may not be sold by itself, or in conjunction with another product,
without written permission of the author.
GUARANTEE - NONE
PREF - 2
PREFACE
LIST OF QSYS FILES
The QSYS system consists of the following files:
* QSYS.EXE - main program module
* QCNFG.EXE - configuration utility
* QINT.EXE - concurrent message interrupt handler
* QMSG.EXE - message program module
* QLDR.COM - batch file loader utility
* MEMBRAIN.EXE - configures and creates MEMBRAIN.SYS
MEMBRAIN.SYS - emulated drive device driver
JOBQ.BAT - dynamic JOBQ batch file
QSYS.SYS - configuration information file
SYSTEM.MNU - base menu file
MSGS.DAT - message file
AUTOEXEC.BAT - system startup procedure batch file
CONFIG.SYS - DOS system configuration parameter file
The QSYS INSTALLATION AID consists of the following files:
* QINST.EXE - installation configuration program
* AUTOEXEC.BAT - installation startup procedure batch file
* CONFIG.SYS - default system configuration parameter file
* MEMBRAIN.SYS - default emulated drive device driver
The QSYS Documentation consists of the following files:
* MAKEDOC.TXT - how to print the documentation
* MAKEDOC.BAT - combines or prints the documentation files
* Q_TITLE.DOC - title page
* Q_CONT.DOC - table of contents
* Q_PREF.DOC - preface
* Q_GEN.DOC - general information
* Q_INST.DOC - installation instructions
* Q_START.DOC - startup procedure
* Q_CLOCK.DOC - clock/calendar
* Q_MENU.DOC - menu system
* Q_JOBQ.DOC - JOBQ
* Q_MSGQ.DOC - MSGQ
* Q_MSG.DOC - message system
* Q_CNFG.DOC - QSYS configuration
* Q_ERR.DOC - system messages
* Q_APPA.DOC - APPENDIX A
* Q_APPB.DOC - APPENDIX B
* Q_APPC.DOC - APPENDIX C
* Q_GLOS.DOC - glossary
Files marked with an asterisk (*) are included with the system,
and are necessary for installation. All other files will be created as
required.
PREF - 3
Q_START.DOC
SYSTEM STARTUP
Provided that QSYS is installed on the drive from which DOS boots
at power-up, the following sequence of events will occur.
o DOS loads
+ Initializes file buffers as defined in 'CONFIG.SYS '
+ Loads and initializes 'ANSI.SYS '
+ Loads and initializes 'MEMBRAIN.SYS '
+ Loads and initializes user device drivers if installed
+ Begins execution of 'AUTOEXEC.BAT '
o 'AUTOEXEC.BAT ' executes
+ Sets Video mode
+ Tests for IPL Resources
- Posts error if resources are unavailable
- If resources are missing from removable
media then prompts for proper diskette,
waits for operator intervention, and
restarts 'AUTOEXEC.BAT '
- If resources are missing from fixed media,
or if the file is missing from the IPL drive,
then terminates 'AUTOEXEC.BAT '
+ Sets the system environment
- Defines QSYS file locations and volume labels
- Sets cursor to backspace character
+ Executes QINT.EXE
- Initializes MSGQ and QSYS data areas
- Initializes QSYS interrupts
+ Executes user defined startup programs
+ Copies QSYS files to emulated drives if necessary
- Makes sub-directories as necessary
+ Executes Message Reorganization Procedure
- Allows setting of system date and time if necessary
- Reorganizes Message File
- Puts today's messages in MSGQ
+ Executes JOBQ.BAT
o JOBQ executes
o Loads QSYS.EXE
- Clock/Calendar appears awaiting sign-on
STRT - 1
Q_TITLE.DOC
QQQQQQQQQQQ SSSSSSSSSS YYY YYY SSSSSSSSSS
QQQ QQQ SSS SSS YYY YYY SSS SSS
QQQ QQQ SSS YYY YYY SSS
QQQ QQQ SSS YYY YYY SSS
QQQ QQQ SSSSSSSSSS YYYYYY SSSSSSSSSS
QQQ Q QQQ SSS YYYYY SSS
QQQ QQQQ SSS YYYY SSS
QQQ QQQ SSS YYY SSS
QQQ QQQQ SSS SSS YYY SSS SSS
QQQQQQQQQQQ Q SSSSSSSSSS YYYYYY SSSSSSSSSSS
Version 3.00
(C) Copyright 1984 Dennis Lee
Directory of PC-SIG Library Disk #0278
Volume in drive A has no label
Directory of A:\
MAKEDOC BAT 254
MAKEDOC TXT 3274
Q_TITLE DOC 634
Q_CONT DOC 7072
Q_PREF DOC 7313
Q_GEN DOC 9260
Q_INST DOC 24895
Q_START DOC 1651
Q_CLOCK DOC 2217
Q_MENU DOC 22028
Q_JOBQ DOC 7682
Q_MSGQ DOC 1869
Q_MSG DOC 14850
Q_CNFG DOC 13641
Q_ERR DOC 23699
Q_APPA DOC 6727
Q_APPB DOC 7318
Q_APPC DOC 2608
Q_GLOS DOC 1224
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