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Information about “JOB ORGANIZATION AND BACKUP SYSTEM”
Power users take note! JOB ORGANIZATION AND BACKUP SYSTEM (JOBS) is a
powerful broad-based utility package for organizing and operating your
system. Simple enough for beginners, JOBS is menu-driven and best
described as a computer ``housekeeper'', maintaining and organizing
your system with an economy of keystrokes.
Housekeeping tasks handled by JOBS include execution of application
programs, backup or archiving of data from applications programs,
installation and removal of programs and utilities, ability to
customize frequently-performed operations, DOS shell functions, and a
host of miscellaneous functions such as searching, sorting, comparing,
backup/restore, etc. An automatic installation sequence guides the
user to proper program set-up procedures, and there are more than 50
pages of thorough documentation.
ARCE31B.DOC
ARCE Command Version 3.1b
------------ Sep 16, 1987
Purpose: Use ARCE to extract files from an ARC archive file.
Format:
ARCE [d:][path]filename.ext [filespecs...] [d:outpath]
[/R]
[/Q]
[/P]
[/T]
[/Gpassword]
Remarks:
The drive and path names are optional. If omitted, the current
drive and path name is used.
The filename must be supplied. The extension defaults to ARC.
All files matching the supplied filename are processed. The ARC
filename may contain the * and ? wildcard characters.
If no filespecs are supplied, all files are extracted.
Otherwise, only those ARC members which match one of the up to
16 filespecs are extracted.
The extracted files may be placed on another drive, and/or in
another subdirectory by following the optional filespecs with a
drive designator and/or path name.
If the file being extracted already exists, you are asked
whether or not you want to over-write it. You may use the | /R
option to bypass this prompt. Use a Y followed by the | return
key to over-write the file.
Use the /Q option to suppress alarm sounds, beeps, and bells.
Use the /P option to write the extracted files to the DOS
standard output file. With /P, you may pipe or redirect the
output. An initial line feed is added to the beginning of the
output file.
Use the /T option to test the archive's integrity. No files will
be extracted.
If the file was encrypted, use the /G option to supply the same
password as was used to create the file, e.g. /GSECRET.
ARCE 3.1b, Copyright (c) 1986-87, Wayne Chin and Vernon D. Buerg.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
ARCE Command Version 3.1b
------------ Sep 16, 1987
Examples
--------
o Extract all file from TEST.ARC onto the current drive:
ARCE TEST
o Extract only file with an extension of .ASM from the archive
SOURCE.ARC on drive B and in subdirectory SAVE:
ARCE B:\SAVE\SOURCE *.ASM
o Extract all files from all ARC files in the subdirectory
called TEST on drive C:
ARCE C:\TEST\*
o Extract all files from PROGA.ARC and place the files in
subdirectory OLD on drive B:
ARCE PROGA.ARC B:\OLD
o Extract all files with an extension of .COM and .EXE from the
archive PROGS.ARC in directory NEW\WORK on drive B, and place
the them in subdirectory SAVE\TEST on drive A; replace
existing file:
ARCE B:\NEW\WORK\PROGS *.COM *.EXE A:\SAVE\TEST /R
o Extract the file READ.ME from the archive GIZMO.ARC and
display it on the console instead of writing it to a file:
ARCE GIZMO READ.ME /P
o Same as above, except pass the extracted READ.ME file to the
LIST file viewer:
ARCE GIZMO READ.ME /P | LIST /S
ARCE Command Version 3.1b
------------ Sep 16, 1987
Error Messages
--------------
'filename - premature EOF reading '
Data is missing from the archive file. The program is
terminated.
'filename - unable to set file datestamp'
The file datestamp is set to the current date and time, and the
next archive member is processed.
'filename - WARNING: file CRC does not match!'
The extracted member is left on the output disk, and the next
archive member is processed. The file is probably invalid but
is left on the disk for your examination.
'Invalid filespec(s)'
The filespec syntax is incorrect. The filename part may be from
1 to eight characters, and may include the ? or * wildcard
characters. The extension may be none to three characters, and
may include wildcards. There is a maximum of 16 filespecs
allowed. The program terminates.
'filename - file already exists. Overwrite it? (y/N) '
The member being extracted already exists. If you are using a
data path utility, the file may not actually be in the
subdirectory be used for output. Respond with the letter Y to
over-write the existing file, or respond with the letter N to
skip this member and continue to the next.
'Abort: Stack overflow'
The member being extracted has invalid data. The program is
terminated.
'filename - invalid decode tree count'
The member being extracted has invalid data. The program is
terminated.
ARCE Command Version 3.1b
------------ Sep 16, 1987
Error Messages (cont'd)
--------------
'filename - new archive format 7 not yet supported'
Format 7 is a special file compression method used internally by
SEA, the authors of ARC. Processing continues with the next
archive member.
'Unable to open archive > arcname'
The specified ARC archive file was not found, or was
inaccessible. The program terminates.
'CREATE failed > filename'
There was insufficient directory space, or a failure accessing
the output disk. The program terminates.
'Invalid archive format!'
The archive file data is invalid. The program terminates.
'Incorrect DOS version'
Version 2.0 or later of PC DOS must be used. The program
terminates
'Not enough memory.'
A minimum of 112k bytes of memory is required. The program
terminates.
'I/O error reading from arcname'
An incorrectable error occurred attempting to read data from the
archive file. The program terminates.
'I/O error writing or disk full > filename'
There was not enough disk space to write the complete archive
member. The partially extracted file is scratched and the
program terminates.
ARCE Command Version 3.1b
------------ Sep 16, 1987
Error Messages (cont'd)
--------------
'No matching file(s) found'
No archive files were found that matched the supplied filename
specifications. The program terminates.
'filename - ERROR: invalid file codes'
An error was detected while attempting to decode a crunched
file. Either some data bytes are invalid, there are extra
bytes, or there are bytes missing. The archive is invalid.
ARCE Command Version 3.1b
------------ Sep 16, 1987
Version history
---------------
1.1 - 1/13/86 -initial release
2.00, 04/08/86 - fine tuning of I/O buffering
2.01-2.05, 4-20 thru 9/9/86
- improve unsq, correct disk full message
2.06, 9/17/86 - release from testing
2.07, from 9/19 - not released
2.08, 12/31/86 - added /P, /Q; fixed /R with redirection
2.09, 1/5/87 - correct closing of output if /P used; require return
(enter key) for over-write prompt
- add more validity checking of member headers
2.10, 1/6/87 - correct use out output file specification
2.11, 1/24/87 - some cosmetics, wrong banner version and date
3.0a, 3/16/87 - added /G for password encryption
- added /T for integrity checking only
- correct loop in command line parsing
- internal optimization
- make intergity checking more robust
3.0c, 3/23/87 - improve extracting with file selection
- minor fixes and cosmetic changes
3.0d, 3/29/87 - correction to unsqueeze
3.0e, 4/02/87 - correct loop with invalid archives
- insure errorlevel non-zero if any errors
- correct loop in command line processing
3.0f, 5/31/87 - correct false 'disk full' error message when
using /p (piping) option
- correct failure to extract all files from a
garbled (/g) archive
3.1a, 9/10/87 - cosmetic changes
| 3.1b, 9/16/87 - unsquashing version released
ARCE Command Version 3.1b
------------ Sep 16, 1987
Notices
-------
ARCE (c) Copyright 1986-1987 by Wayne Chin and Vernon D. Buerg
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
ARCE is free, but it is a copyrighted work and may be distributed only
pursuant to this license.
Permission is hereby granted to reproduce and disseminate ARCE so long
as:
(1) No remuneration of any kind is received in exchange; and
(2) Distribution is without ANY modification to the contents of
ARCE.COM and all accompanying documentation and/or support
files, including the copyright notice and this license.
No copy of ARCE may be distributed without including a copy of this
license.
Any other use is prohibited without express, written permission in
advance.
Vernon D. Buerg
456 Lakeshire Drive
Daly City, CA 94015
CompuServe: 70007,1212
Data/BBS: 415-994-2944
For use by corporations, institutions, or for profit, contact
System Enhancement Associates for licensing information.
System Enhancement Associates
21 New Street
Wayne, NJ 07470
FILE1093.TXT
Disk No 1093
Program Title: JOBS version 3.10s
PC-SIG Version: 1
Power users take note! Job Organization and Backup System (JOBS) is a
powerful broad-based utility package for organizing and operating your
system, yet one that is simple enough for beginners to use. JOBS is
menu-driven and best described as a computer "housekeeper," maintaining and
organizing your system with an economy of keystrokes.
Housekeeping tasks handled by JOBS include: DOS-shell related
operations, execution of application programs, backup or archiving of data
from applications programs, installation and removal of programs and
utilities, an ability to customize frequently-performed operations, and a
host of miscellaneous functions such as searching, sorting, comparing,
backup/restore, etc. An automatic installation sequence guides the user to
proper program setup procedures. Over 50 pages of thorough documentation
are provided.
Usage: Hard Disk Utility
System Requirements: 128K memory, one floppy disk drive, and a hard disk.
How to Start: Type INSTALL (press enter) to install on your hard disk.
Suggested Registration: $29.00
File Descriptions:
??? ARC Archived program files (3 files).
ARCE31B DOC Documentation for the archive program.
ARCE31B COM Archive program file.
INSTALL BAT Automatically installs program to your hard drive.
PC-SIG
1030-D East Duane Avenue
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
(408) 730-9291
(c) Copyright 1988 PC-SIG, Inc.
GO.TXT
╔═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
║ <<<< Disk No 1093 JOBS >>>> ║
╠═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣
║ The program files on this disk are archived. You must first unarchive ║
║ the files before you will be able to use them. For instructions on how ║
║ to use the unarchiving utility program, type: INSTALL (press enter) ║
╚═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
JOBS31B0.TXT
JOBS - Job Organization and Backup System
Version 3.10sb
Shareware Version
Copyright (C) 1985, 1986, 1987
RCT Design
JOBS shareware distribution files as of 1/18/87:
JOBS31B1.ARC and JOBS31B2.ARC
======================== WHAT IS JOBS? ========================
JOBS is an acronym for JOB Organization and Backup System. It is a
hard disk manager, DOS shell, utility set, menu manager, and more. It
runs on IBM PC/XT/AT and compatible computers.
Perhaps our most difficult task has been to explain what JOBS is. It
doesn't fall neatly into a single category. Maybe it is best described
as a housekeeper.
As a housekeeper, JOBS performs those tasks that are performed outside of
application programs. We consider PCs to be machines specifically
designed to run applications, ie., word processing, accounting, planning,
drafting, design, etc. Housekeeping tasks are those that are necessary
but incidental. Housekeeping tasks include:
1. DOS related operations, such as directory creation/removal,
file copy, erase, rename, etc.
2. Execution of application programs.
3. Installation and removal of programs and utilities.
4. Backup or archiving of data created by applications.
5. Miscellaneous functions to display, organize, and manage
application data; ie., tools used to print, search, sort,
compare, etc.
6. The ability to automate or customize frequently performed
operations.
======================== FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS ========================
The shareware version of JOBS (JOBS-SW) is a subset of JOBS+, which adds
support for hard disk backup and restore, a menu manager, EASY menus to
simplify access to JOBS' extensive command set, and a set of macros that
make short work of many of the most common housekeeping tasks.
Here is a list highlighting what the Shareware version of JOBS can do.
Following that is a list of some of the additional features supported
by JOBS+.
DIRECTORY LEVEL FEATURES
Graphic representation of directory trees
o Not just one, but two directory tree screens
o Quick and easy movement among directories and disks
o Current directory follows the directory pointer
o Automatic scrolling for large directory trees
o Supports all 32 directory levels allowed by DOS
Versatile find file command
o Wild card search string
o Find only files that have been changed
o Find files by date and time
o Limit search to any branch of a directory tree
o Sorted results written to disk
Create, Erase, and Rename directories
Rename or add disk volume labels
FILE LEVEL FEATURES
Extensive directory display features
o Not one, but two directory display screens
o Quick sort on file name, type, size, or date/time
o Limit the displayed files
o By name, date/time, changed, or selected
o With wild cards
o Using AND, OR, and NOT logic
o Complete file statistics, including attributes
o Disk and memory statistics
o Disk capacity and percent of disk used
o Space required to copy to destination
Powerful file selection methods
o Select by pointing
o Select with multiple wildcards including a NOT operator
o Select by time and date
o Select by comparing two directory's contents
o AND, OR, and NOT logic may be applied to the above methods
o Save list of selected files for later recall
Batch commands - multiple file operations
o Copy, erase, move, rename, or print
o Change attributes, date or time
o Copy with directory structure to destination
Immediate single file commands, 'point and do'
o Run programs or batch files.
o Rename or erase a file
o Change the attribute of a file
Configurable print utility
o Pagination with optional page header
o Variable tab expansion, page size and margin
o Easily send control codes to printer
Miscellaneous commands
o List directory contents to disk or printer
o Type or hex dump file
DOS SHELL FEATURES
Runs other programs
o Point and run
o Run another program or batch file and return using less than
2k of memory (1/2 of what DOS uses).
o Recall of last DOS command
o JOBS is an excellent base of operations
Edit the command line
o All prompted input can be edited
o WordStar key equivalents supported
o Default choices may be inserted and edited
o Filenames and paths may be 'captured' from the screen to be
inserted at prompts.
Control the environment
o Set Verify, Break, Date and Time
o Enhanced access to and control of the DOS 'Set' environment
SPECIAL FEATURES
Programmable with a 'Learn' mode
o Create your own commands (macros)
o Easy to use macro learn mode
o Special macro commands
o Create your own menus and help screens
o Window editor for interactively creating pop-up windows for
use with your custom macros.
Links to your editor
o Use your editor as an integral part of JOBS
Time clock functions
o Job timing - punch in, punch out, and total
o Unlimited number of jobs
OTHER FEATURES
Easy installation
o Smart install with thorough context sensitive help.
o Support for mono or color card (color selection)
o Control memory requirements (90k to 130k)
Not memory resident
o There when you what it, gone when you don't
o 100% well behaved
o Compatible with other programs, including concurrent/multi-
tasking utilities.
Slim and quick
o Will run in as little as 90k of available memory
o Loads and runs quickly
o Quick enough to use just to change directories
o Single key selection of commands
o Support for expert, rapid entry of commands
Extensive on-line help
o Over 200 context sensitive help screens just a key away
Thorough error trapping
o Full screen explanations and suggestions.
o Graceful recovery wherever possible
============ ADDITIONAL FEATURES PROVIDED WITH JOBS+ ============
Task Manager - user defined menus
o Ready to use function key menus.
o Interactively create, edit, and delete menu tasks as needed.
o No programming required.
o Automatically generates macros to execute tasks, quicker and
more reliable than batch file based menus.
o Each menu has a note area to provide help text, keep reminders, etc.
o Pop-up mini directory tree and directory list.
o handy for those quick peaks or to change a disk.
o point and run a program
o point and edit a file
EASY menu system
o An alternate Lotus style menu set that simplifies access to JOBS'
commands.
o Easier for the occasional user, with shortcuts for the serious user.
o Shorter more concise context sensitive help, with index.
o Single keystroke access, toggle between EASY menus and JOBS' menus.
o Provides ease of use without compromising on power and versatility.
Extension Set
o A collection of macros to extend JOBS' basic capabilities.
o Over 30 high level commands, accessed through pop-up menus.
o Commands to simplify those most frequently performed chores.
o Hard disk backup and restore
o Directory structure as well as files are backed up.
o Backup may be limited to selected directory branches.
o Backup all files, or just those that changed.
o Backup files specified in a selection list.
o Unlimited number of selection lists supported.
o Includes an interactive list builder.
o Accepts lists created by the Find file command.
o Lists may specify files to exclude.
o Backup based on file dates and/or times.
o Two Update commands
o Quickly update previously created backup disks.
o Update a single directory or multiple directories
with a single command.
o Restore
o Automatically recreates original directory structure.
o Not order dependent, only restores the latest versions.
o Optional log of backup/restore transactions.
o File search
o may be limited to selected directory branch.
o 5 variations
o Fast find, single wildcard search.
o Wildcard search for files that have been changed.
o Wildcard search for today's files.
o Find a single file and display its directory with pointer
located at matching file.
o Multiple wildcard search.
o Search results written to disk.
o Redisplay last search results.
o Utilities
o Create a batch file and execute it.
o Move a directory branch within the directory tree.
o Search for text within selected files.
o Search selected files in current directory.
o Use selection list to search files in multiple
directories on one or more disks, creates result list.
o Format a disk.
o Climb (visit each directory) a directory branch and clean out
unwanted files specified with multiple wildcards.
o Climb a branch and run a macro at each directory.
o Batch erase all files in current directory.
o Batch erase selected files in current directory.
o Batch clear archive bits on selected files.
o Select files by comparing two directories.
o select the newer files.
o select those with same dates and times.
o select the older files.
o select those that are not in the other directory.
RCT Design
PO Box 1726 UUCP: tellefson@cup.portal.com
Novato, CA 94948 jack_gallivan@cup.portal.com
(415) 892-2713 Compuserve: 73417,545
(408) 749-9826 Genie: R.TELLEFSON
CHANGES.TXT
Changes made in JOBS Shareware version 3.10b
Enhanced directory tree display. JOBS now supports full 12 character
directory names. Pressing any number key at the tree display causes
JOBS to adjust the number of characters displayed for each directory
name. The display can now be adjusted to display anywhere from 3
characters to 12 characters for each directory name.
TREEPRNT macro upgraded to support dynamic tree display. Tree will
print exactly as displayed on screen.
Created new Timeclock total report (TIMECLK LIST DISK) that provides a
better break down of time spent on each segment of a job. Uses and
includes your comments to provide a more detailed break down of each
work session.
Enhanced .LST file selection macros.
Made install macro more intelligent in handling ambiguous path
specifications found in the DOS environment. Also improved its method
of amending the autoexec file. It will now find and remove any
previous path spec's and insert the new one in the same place the
original was found.
Improved help. When at any one of JOBS' prompts, regardless of what
command is being performed, the help will explain prompt line edit
commands as well as the help related to the current command.
Thanks for your feedback. Keep those requests comming in! We'll
implement them ASAP. With your support JOBS will continue to be the
most powerful tool of its kind.
CONTACT1.DOC
JOBS - Job Organization and Backup System
copyright (c) RCT Design 1985,86,87,88
Hard disk manager and DOS shell for IBM PC/XT/AT and compatibles.
To order or for further information regarding this product, contact:
USPS: RCT Design
PO Box 1726
Novato, CA 94948
Voice: (415) 892-2713 Jack Gallivan
(408) 749-9826 Robert Tellefson
UUCP: jack_gallivan@cup.portal.com
tellefson@cup.portal.com
Compuserve: 73417,545 Robert Tellefson
Genie: R.TELLEFSON
Orders may be placed by Email and should include the following information:
Exact package(s) desired, ie., 2 copies of JOBS+ version with manual on disk
Full Name
Shipping address - UPS address if ordering printed manual, USPS otherwise
Phone number and best time to contact you if necessary.
Credit card information: Visa or Mastercard, Number and expiration date
CONTACT2.DOC
JOBS - Job Organization and Backup System
copyright (c) RCT Design 1985,86,87,88
Hard disk manager and DOS shell for IBM PC/XT/AT and compatibles.
To order or for further information regarding this product, contact:
USPS: RCT Design
PO Box 1726
Novato, CA 94948
Voice: (415) 892-2713 Jack Gallivan
(408) 749-9826 Robert Tellefson
UUCP: jack_gallivan@cup.portal.com
tellefson@cup.portal.com
Compuserve: 73417,545 Robert Tellefson
Genie: R.TELLEFSON
Orders may be placed by Email and should include the following information:
Exact package(s) desired, ie., 2 copies of JOBS+ version with manual on disk
Full Name
Shipping address - UPS address if ordering printed manual, USPS otherwise
Phone number and best time to contact you if necessary.
Credit card information: Visa or Mastercard, Number and expiration date
JOBS-SW.DOC
JOBS
==================================
Job Organization and Backup System
HARD DISK MANAGEMENT
==================================
for the IBM PC, XT, AT, and compatibles
Version 3.10s
Shareware Version
Copyright (C) 1985, 1986, 1987
RCT Design
RCT Design
PO Box 1726
Novato, CA 94948
(415) 892-2713 or (408) 749-9826
Copyright (C) 1985, 1986, 1987 by RCT Design. All rights
reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or
translated into any language in any form by any means, except
as permitted in the following agreement.
The software described in this document is furnished under a
license agreement. The software may be used or copied only in
accordance with the terms of the agreement.
The JOBS software and manual are furnished "AS IS" and without
warranty as to performance. Because of the many uses to which
this software may be put and the variety of hardware used in
conjunction with it, no warranty of fitness for a particular
purpose is offered.
RCT Design reserves the right to make improvements in the
product described in this manual at any time without notice.
That said, we hope that JOBS is well suited to your needs. If
not, let us know about it. If it is, let us know about that
too.
Program developed and documented by
ROBERT C. TELLEFSON and JOHN E. GALLIVAN
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987
JOBS-SW 3.10 Table of Contents
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION.......................................1
Copyright......................................1
License........................................1
The Shareware Concept..........................1
Registration...................................2
GETTING STARTED....................................3
Recommended Strategy...........................3
Requirements...................................3
Installation...................................3
The Easy Way - JOBS Installs Itself........4
Easy Installation Complete.................4
Doing It Your Way..........................4
USING JOBS.........................................5
Where To Begin.................................5
Getting Familiar with the Basics...............5
<Esc> = QUIT, BACK UP, CANCEL..............5
<F1> = HELP................................6
<Ctrl><Home> = RESET.......................6
Menus..........................................6
Prompts........................................7
Macros.........................................8
The TREE Screens...............................8
Flip - A Brief Tour............................8
COMMAND SUMMARY...................................12
Key Usage at the TREE Screens.................12
Key Usage at the DIRECTORY Screens............12
The Menu Structure............................13
TREE SCREEN MENUS.........................13
SYSTEM SCREEN MENUS.......................13
INSTALL SCREEN MENUS......................13
MACRO SCREEN MENUS........................14
TIMECLOCK SCREEN MENUS....................15
DIRECTORY SCREEN MENUS....................15
PRINT SCREEN MENUS........................17
CHANGING INSTALLATION SETTINGS....................18
Jobs Install..................................18
DRIVE.....................................18
LOAD......................................18
MACRO.....................................18
OPTIONS...................................19
RESTORE...................................20
SAVE......................................20
VIDEO.....................................21
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - i
JOBS-SW 3.10 Table of Contents
MACROS - CUSTOM COMMANDS..........................22
What are Macros?..............................22
What can they do for me?......................22
Macro Files...................................22
The MACRO Screen..............................23
Creating a macro?.............................23
Creating Macros with Learn................24
Correcting Mistakes While Learning........24
Macro Text Files..............................25
Characters Used in Macro Text Files.......25
Text File Commands........................26
Macro Command Reference.......................26
Macro Escape Commands.....................27
The Bracketed Commands....................32
READY TO RUN MACROS...............................39
JMAC-SW.JM....................................39
DOS-CMD...................................39
DO........................................40
LEARN.....................................40
ARC-SEL...................................40
CHG-MAC...................................40
EDMAC.....................................41
FRESHEN...................................41
GOTOTREE..................................41
DATE-HI...................................41
GO-SMENU..................................42
MAKEPATH..................................42
CONTINUE..................................42
README....................................42
TREEPRNT..................................42
TREEINIT..................................42
WRITER....................................43
DISP2DAY..................................43
PICK-LST..................................43
APPENDIX A - JOBS FILES...........................44
APPENDIX B - KEY WORDS............................46
APPENDIX C - FINE TUNING..........................48
CONFIG.SYS....................................48
DOS Path......................................49
NON-REMOVABLE VS. REMOVABLE...................49
APPENDIX D - MANUAL INSTALLATION..................51
APPENDIX E - AT THE DOS COMMAND LINE..............53
APPENDIX F - ERROR MESSAGES.......................54
REGISTRATION FORM................................END
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - ii
JOBS-SW 3.10s INTRODUCTION
------------------------------------------------------------------------
INTRODUCTION
========================================================================
COPYRIGHT
The program, JOBS-SW.EXE, all of its associated files, and this document
are copyrighted materials. It is your responsibility to honor these
copyrights.
LICENSE
This version of JOBS (version 3.10s) has been placed in circulation
under the shareware concept. This means that you may try it out without
paying for it. It does not mean that you may continue to use it without
paying for it.
RCT Design grants you license to:
1. Give this program and its support files (listed in appendix A) to
others for evaluation, so long as you provide them with the complete
and unaltered file set. Emphasis is on the word 'give'. This
product may not be distributed for profit under this license. (Non-
profit groups may charge a fee to cover the cost of materials, so
long as that fee does not exceed $6.00 per copy.)
2. Use the program a reasonable number of times to determine its
usefulness.
End of license. No other rights are granted or should be inferred.
THE SHAREWARE CONCEPT
The shareware concept is a software distribution method that benefits
both you and the product's developer. You gain the opportunity to try
the software before buying. The developer is provided a cost effective
means of marketing and distribution, allowing high quality software to
be attractively priced. Sounds good, but to make it work you must
purchase the product if it meets a need and you continue using it.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 1
JOBS-SW 3.10s INTRODUCTION
------------------------------------------------------------------------
REGISTRATION
Under the shareware concept, you are given a complete, working product
at no charge. If you find the program useful and continue using this
program, you are asked to pay a $29 registration fee.
Payment of the registration fee entitles you to a registered version of
JOBS (2 disk set), additional utility macros, a copy of the complete
user's manual (with index) on disk.
You can purchase JOBS+ for $69 (see the accompanying 'read.me' file for
details about JOBS+). The full program and JOBS+ manual are provided on
disk (3 disk set) or add $10 for the printed manual.
Whether you register JOBS or purchase JOBS+, you will be credited with
15 minutes of telephone support and informed of updates and enhancements
as they become available.
Additional telephone support may be purchased in half hour blocks for
$25 or by the minute for $1 per minute. Support includes help with DOS
as well as JOBS. Our aim is to help you get the most from your
computer.
A registration form is provided at the end of this document.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 2
JOBS-SW 3.10s GETTING STARTED
------------------------------------------------------------------------
GETTING STARTED
========================================================================
RECOMMENDED STRATEGY
1. Read this section and install JOBS.
2. Read the next section entitled 'Using JOBS'. This section explains
the basic workings of JOBS and takes you on a brief tour.
3. Scan the section entitled 'Command Summary'. This will give you an
overview of the many things that JOBS can do.
4. Check out appendix C entitled 'Fine tuning'. Make sure you are
getting the most out of your system.
5. Experiment with JOBS. Use the HELP key frequently (there is more
information in the HELP than in this manual).
6. Learn as you go. Learn what you need, as you need it. Although
JOBS has an extensive range of capabilities, it's not necessary to
know how to use them all to derive benefit from this program.
REQUIREMENTS
JOBS requires DOS 2.0 or higher, a minimum of 128K of free memory, and a
video system that has either Monochrome Display Adapter (MDA) or Color
Graphics Adapter (CGA) capabilities. You should also have a hard disk.
JOBS will run from a floppy but it rarely makes sense to do so, except
during installation.
INSTALLATION
The shareware version of JOBS is distributed as archived files. The
files included in these archived files are described in Appendix-A.
These files may be un-archived with either of the two common archive
programs, namely:
PKXARC.COM from PKWARE Inc.
ARC.EXE from System Enhancement Associates
Be sure to make a backup copy of the distribution files.
By the way, keystrokes are shown here between brackets, ie., <Enter> is
the Enter key, <Tab> is the Tab key, etc. On most machines these names
should match the labels on your keyboard.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 3
JOBS-SW 3.10s GETTING STARTED
------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE EASY WAY - JOBS INSTALLS ITSELF
JOBS is designed to install itself, guaranteeing a proper installation
every time.
With this shareware version we will have to assume that you have already
unpacked the archived files onto your hard disk and the following files
are in the current directory:
JOBS-SW.EXE JOBS-SW.OV JMAC-SW.JM JINST-SW.JM SAMPMENU.JM
JOBS-SW.HLP JERR-SW.HLP JOBS-SW.DOC JREAD-SW.ME SMENU.JMT
At the DOS prompt, type:
JOBS-SW /N<Enter>
JOBS will automatically execute its easy installation routine and guide
you through to a completed installation.
Note: The key to JOBS' easy installation is the file JINST-SW.JM and
the command line switch "/N". If JOBS is run with the /N command
line switch it will look in the current directory for the macro
file JINST-SW.JM and, if found, will automatically run the easy
installation macros.
EASY INSTALLATION COMPLETE
Upon completion of the easy install routine, JOBS will be fully
operational and you will be looking at JOBS' entry screen (TREE screen)
and first menu.
From here, skip over the next paragraph to the section entitled USING
JOBS.
DOING IT YOUR WAY
If you are one of those people who is leery of automatic installations,
or for whatever reason prefer to install JOBS manually, see appendix D.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 4
JOBS-SW 3.10s USING JOBS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
USING JOBS
========================================================================
This section covers the main features of JOBS. It will not cover all
the commands and those that it does mention will not necessarily be
covered in detail. But, it will get you started and shorten your
learning experience considerably.
A more detailed manual is provided upon registration of JOBS. It covers
all of JOBS' features and commands in detail.
For immediate information on each command, use the on-line HELP. It is
quite extensive and is context sensitive.
WHERE TO BEGIN
If you used the easy installation process, you should now be looking at
the TREE screen. This is the first screen displayed when you enter JOBS
(the shareware version displays its advertising message first, the
registered version and JOBS+ do not).
If you are not in JOBS, run it now. At the DOS command line enter:
JOBS-SW<Enter>
This is the basic JOBS command line. For information on JOBS' command
line options see appendix E.
Read the advertising, of course, then press any key to display the tree
screen.
If you are running JOBS on the current disk for the first time and there
are lots of directories on the disk, JOBS will take a few seconds to
gather the information needed to display the directory tree. JOBS will
retain this information for future use, allowing this tree to be
displayed almost instantly the next time JOBS accesses this disk.
GETTING FAMILIAR WITH THE BASICS
<ESC> = QUIT, BACK UP, CANCEL
The <Esc> key is just that. It will get you out of whatever you are
doing. At any point in the program that will accept keyboard input, the
Escape key will either back up to the previous menu, terminate the
current command or suspend the current file operations.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 5
JOBS-SW 3.10s USING JOBS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
<F1> = HELP
Function key <F1> is the HELP key. HELP is available anywhere in the
program, is context sensitive and is available in three forms. From
general information to specific, the commands are:
1. <F1> then <?> for overall program information.
2. <F1> then <Space> for general information relating to the current
menu.
3. <F1> then the first character of the menu command that you are
interested in.
At those program locations where only one choice is possible, the HELP
key will automatically display the HELP screen pertaining to the current
operation.
Some simple HELP screen conventions are:
Command names are displayed using high intensity characters with the
first character capitalized. Use the <Esc> key to exit HELP and return
to the program. Use <PgUp> and <PgDn> to view multiple page HELP
screens.
<CTRL><HOME> = RESET, START JOBS FROM THE BEGINNING
There may be times when you would like to just reset JOBS and start
over. At any prompt in the program that will accept keyboard input,
pressing <Ctrl> and <Home> at the same time will reset JOBS to the first
run state. Using the reset will not adversely affect any file
operations, because JOBS will close any open files before it completes
the reset.
MENUS
JOBS menus are displayed on the 2nd line from the bottom of the screen
and are displayed in alphabetical order.
Commands are selected by typing the first character of the command name
and will execute immediately unless the command chosen requires a
confirmation. Command sequences can be strung together and generally
they can be entered without waiting for the program to catch up.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 6
JOBS-SW 3.10s USING JOBS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROMPTS
There are three types of JOBS prompts: Text, Numeric, or Yes/No (Y/N).
Press <Esc> AT ANY PROMPT to exit the prompt and abandon the current
operation.
When prompting for text, JOBS highlights the input area to show the
maximum length of the text to be entered.
Numeric prompts expect only numbers to be input and display the
permissible range of values between parentheses, ie., (1-50) means that
any number from 1 to 50 will be accepted, all others will be ignored.
Yes or No prompts will accept only <Y> or <N> and identify themselves by
displaying (Y/N).
All three prompt types display the default response between "<" and ">".
Pressing the <Enter> key in response to a prompt, selects the default.
Some examples:
<Y> Press <Enter> to answer Yes.
<FILE> Press <Enter> to select the default text 'FILE'.
<20> Press <Enter> to select the default value 20.
The default text may be inserted into the highlighted entry area using
the <Ins> key. Once inserted it may be edited or used "as is". Default
insertion may be used at any time and as many times as desired, limited
only by the available entry space. JOBS will ring the bell if there is
not enough space remaining to insert the default text.
The following prompt line editing operations are supported:
Operation Key Alternate key
------------------------------ ------------ -------------
Move left one character (Left arrow) <Ctrl><S>
Move right one character (Right arrow) <Ctrl><D>
Move to beginning of line <Home>
Move to end of line <End>
Delete character left of cursor <BackSpace> <Ctrl><H>
Delete character at cursor <Del> <Ctrl><G>
Delete entire line <Ctrl><Y>
Insert captured filename <Ctrl><N>
Insert captured file <Ctrl><F>
Insert captured path <Ctrl><P>
Insert default <Ins>
Execute <Enter> <Ctrl><M>
The prompt line editor is always in the insert mode. To replace a
character, delete the old character ( with <BackSpace> or <Del> ) and
insert the new one. Once the entered text is satisfactory, press
<Enter>. All text displayed within the highlighted area will be
accepted; the cursor need not be at the end of the entered text.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 7
JOBS-SW 3.10s USING JOBS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MACROS
Macros are user created commands that may perform a series of program
commands with one key stroke.
The MACRO menu is displayed in the upper right-hand corner of the screen
by pressing the <Tab> key. It lists only those macros, in the current
macro file, that are meant to execute at the current program location.
Only 10 macros are displayed at a time. If more than 10 macros are
available at the current location, the word TAB will be displayed at the
bottom right corner of the macro menu window. Press the <Tab> key to
view the next 10. Press tab, at the end, to clear the macro menu from
the screen. If any other key is pressed, it will be treated as a
command and the macro menu window will be cleared from the screen.
The name of the current macro file is shown at the top of the window.
Macros may be executed without displaying the macro menu.
Each macro is assigned to a key or combination of keys called macro
keys. The keys which may have macros assigned to them are the function
keys <F1> through <F10> and the Alternate alphabetic keys <Alt><A>
through <Alt><Z>. The Alt keys are entered by holding down the <Alt>
key while entering the desired alphabetic key. No distinction is made
between lower and upper case letters.
THE TREE SCREENS
The first screen that you see when you start JOBS is a graphic
representation of the current drive's directory structure which is
commonly known as a 'tree'. This screen is called the TREE screen. The
directory pointer, a highlighted bar, indicates the current directory.
If you move the pointer, with the cursor keys, and then exit the
program, you will find that you are in that directory. This is also
true when running other programs or batch files from JOBS.
FLIP - WHERE THE POWER COMES FROM (A BRIEF TOUR)
A unique and significant feature of JOBS is its dual screen mode of
operation. JOBS can alternately display two directory trees and two
directory lists. In either case, the two displays or screens are
referred to as the 'current' screen and the 'alternate' screen.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 8
JOBS-SW 3.10s USING JOBS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
To try this out:
At a TREE screen, press <F> (for Flip) to display the 'alternate' TREE
screen. You may not notice much difference, but move the directory
pointer to a different directory and then <F>lip back to the original
tree screen. Notice that this tree display is as you left it when you
Flipped the first time.
Taking it a step further, select the Drive command and change to another
drive (a floppy in drive A for example). JOBS will display the selected
drive's directory tree, placing the directory pointer on that drive's
current directory.
Now <F>lip to the alternate TREE screen. Notice that it is as you left
it. The two TREE screens may be used to display two copies of the same
directory tree or two different directory trees.
JOBS is designed around this capability and its commands take full
advantage of it, wherever possible. Speaking of commands, notice that
both screens have the same menus. In fact, both screens are exactly the
same except for the tree structure that is displayed.
To see what files are in a directory, point to the directory of interest
and press <V> (<Enter> or <+> may also be used to select the View
command). The View command takes you to one of the two DIRECTORY
screens.
The TREE screens are used to perform directory related operations and
the DIRECTORY screens are used to perform file related operations.
Notice that the DIRECTORY screen menu also has the Flip command. Press
<F> now.
JOBS returned you to what was the alternate TREE screen (for the moment
it is the current screen). Select another directory and <V>iew it. Now
you have activated both DIRECTORY screens, one with each TREE screen.
Press <F> again to return to the first DIRECTORY screen that you
activated. With both DIRECTORY screens active, Flip switches you back
and forth between them. With only one DIRECTORY screen active, Flip
returns you to the alternate TREE screen to select a directory.
Now that you have the swing (or flip?) of things, lets look at a few of
the powerful things we can do with this organization. To keep this as
brief as possible, we'll look directly at a couple of commands and leave
the rest for you to learn as you go. By the way, if you'd like to see a
visual of the 4 screens and how they fit together, select the HELP for
the Flip command.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 9
JOBS-SW 3.10s USING JOBS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Before we go any further, we need an empty directory to use temporarily.
If you are not already at one of the TREE screens, press <Esc> until you
are. Move the directory pointer to the directory that you want this
temporary sub-directory appended to. Select <U>tilities <M>ake-new.
Enter the new directory's name (perhaps TEMP). With the TEMP directory
in place, we're ready to proceed.
Several of the most frequently used commands involve two directories,
ie., copying files requires a source directory and a destination
directory.
Let's see how this is accomplished in JOBS. For the purpose of this
demonstration, let's copy a couple of JOBS' files to that temporary
directory.
At a TREE screen point to the JOBS data directory (the one you selected
when installing JOBS). If you need to change drives, press <D> to
select the Drive command. <V>iew JOBS' data directory.
Ok, we've selected the source directory and need to select the files to
be copied. JOBS provides numerous ways to select files, the simplest of
which is 'point and pick'. With the up and down arrow keys, move the
highlighted file pointer to the file you what to select and press
<Enter> or <+>. You may de-select in the same fashion by pressing
<Space> or <->. Select a couple of JOBS' files. Selected files are
displayed in high intensity and are preceded by a diamond.
Now for the destination directory. Press <Esc> to return to the current
(or in this case the source) TREE screen. Press <F> to Flip to the
alternate (or destination) TREE screen. Use the cursor keys to place
the directory pointer on that temporary directory you created earlier.
<V>iew it. Since this is a new directory JOBS displays the message "No
files present". Select <F>lip to return to the source DIRECTORY screen
and the previously selected files.
Press <B> to select the Batch command. All copy operations and commands
that operate on groups of files are selected from the Batch menu that is
now displayed. The Batch menu lists all of the things you can do to a
group of files. Three of these commands (B-copy, Copy, and Dup) have to
do with making copies. The one we want in this case is B-copy (stands
for batch copy). This is the most frequently used copy command; the
other two serve particular needs that will not be covered here (see
their respective HELP screens).
Press <B> to select B-copy. B-copy automatically assumes that the
alternate DIRECTORY screen is the destination and begins copying
immediately. When complete, JOBS reports the number of files copied.
Press any key to return to the DIRECTORY screen.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 10
JOBS-SW 3.10s USING JOBS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notice that the diamond markers have changed to 'x', denoting that the
associated files have been copied. If you select another file now and
B-copy again, only the diamond marked files copy. The 'x' marked files
will be skipped.
If you <F>lip now, you will see the new copies in the destination
directory.
Before you take off on your own, let's look at one more feature that
dual screens make possible.
Frequently it is useful to compare the contents of one directory with
those of another. While still at the destination directory that we
copied those files to, press <S> to bring up the Select menu. This menu
displays the various selection methods available.
One of the commands is called Match. Press <M> and JOBS will select the
files that match with the files in the alternate directory (files match
if their names are the same). Now, back at the DIRECTORY screen menu,
press <C> to compare the selected files with the files in the alternate
directory. Notice that the select markers changed to '=', denoting that
the matching files have equal dates and times. Had they been different,
the marks would be changed to '<' (this file's date is greater or later)
or '>' (this file is earlier).
Having completed this brief tour, you should have a reasonably good
understanding of how to navigate, how to select commands, and most
importantly how to get HELP. This knowledge will serve you well in the
learn-as-you-go process.
Keep one finger on the HELP key and forge ahead; JOBS is pretty
forgiving. Press <Esc> at any time to cancel or back up. If you just
want to start over completely, press <Ctrl><Home>.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 11
JOBS-SW 3.10s COMMAND SUMMARY
------------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMAND SUMMARY
========================================================================
This section contains a brief listing and description of every command
in JOBS. Commands are listed in groups by screen. Indenting indicates
sub-menus and their respective levels.
KEY USAGE AT THE TREE SCREENS
The highlighted directory is the 'selected' directory for commands which
require a directory specification, and is also the DOS 'current'
directory if you exit JOBS or run other programs from within JOBS.
The cursor movement keys may be used to move the highlighted pointer
from directory to directory. Their actions:
<PgUp> Move to the root directory.
<PgDn> Move to the bottom-most sub-directory of the root.
<Up-arrow> Move to the next directory above the current one.
<Dn-arrow> Move to the next directory below the current one.
<Left-arrow> Move to the directory left of the current one.
<Right-arrow> Move to the directory right of the current one.
<Home> Move to the base of the current branch.
<End> Move to the right-most directory in the current
branch.
If the tree is too large to fit on the screen all at once, the view will
automatically scroll as needed.
KEY USAGE AT THE DIRECTORY SCREENS
</> Redraw the screen.
<\> Toggle between display selected and display all.
<!> Toggle selected files.
<Del> Erase file under pointer.
<Enter> or <+> Select file under pointer.
<Space> or <-> De-select file under pointer
<PgUp> Display previous page in listing.
<PgDn> Display next page in listing.
<Up-arrow> Move pointer up one file.
<Dn-arrow> Move pointer down one file.
<Home> Move pointer to top of file list.
<End> Move pointer to end of file list.
<5> Center file pointer on screen.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 12
JOBS-SW 3.10s COMMAND SUMMARY
------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE MENU STRUCTURE
------------------------- TREE SCREEN MENUS ----------------------------
ESC Quit JOBS.
<.> DOS system call
ESC Return to the TREE screen menu.
Goto Goto DOS and do not return.
Large-call Goto DOS and return to same location.
Small-call Goto DOS and return to beginning of JOBS.
Drive Change drive for the current display.
Flip Switch between current and alternate directory screen.
Jobs Select the menu for JOBS specific operations.
ESC Return to the TREE screen menu.
Install Goto the INSTALL Screen for JOBS setup.
Macro Goto the MACRO screen.
Reset Clears directory screen lists from memory.
Timeclock Goto TIMECLOCK screen.
New Force JOBS to read the disk and update tree display
information.
Path Capture path at directory pointer.
Quit Quit JOBS.
System Goto the SYSTEM Screen for DOS system information
Utilities Select menu for basic disk and directory functions.
ESC Return to the TREE screen menu.
Branch Create a directory branch in one operation.
Erase Erase an empty directory.
Find Locate file(s) in the current directory branch.
Make-new Create a new directory.
Rename Edit the name of a directory.
Volume Create or revise the disk volume label.
View Goto the DIRECTORY Screen for file listing and menu.
------------------------ SYSTEM SCREEN MENUS ---------------------------
ESC Return to the TREE screen menu.
Break Set DOS Break ON or OFF.
Date/time Set DOS system Date and Time.
Environment Enter or change DOS environment variable.
Verify Set DOS Verify ON or OFF.
----------------------- INSTALL SCREEN MENUS ---------------------------
ESC Return to TREE screen and menu.
Drive Add or remove a drive from the installation list.
ESC Return to main install menu.
Add Add a drive.
Remove Remove a drive.
Load Load install settings from JOBS' file on disk.
Macro Set maximum size of macro definitions, macro escape key,
and default macro file.
Options Access Options menu.
ESC Return to the main install menu.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 13
JOBS-SW 3.10s COMMAND SUMMARY
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bell Turn error bell ON or OFF and select pitch.
ESC Return to main install menu.
Dos Turn bell ON and use DOS bell sound.
0 = OFF Turn bell OFF.
1 - 9 = ON Turn bell ON and select pitch.
Call Select Edit and <.> call default method.
ESC Return to main install menu.
Echo Have JOBS display intermediate command line.
Goto Select GOTO as default.
Large-call Select Large-call as default.
Small-call Select Small-call as default.
Data-dir Declare the JOBS data directory.
Editor Provide JOBS with the name of your editor.
Graphics Allow graphic characters in text files.
Memory Use how many K of memory for data.
Tabs Set default tab expansion for View and Print.
Update Have Dup leave how many K for updates.
Restore Cancel changes made since entering install screen.
Save Save the current installation values.
Video Video setup menu.
ESC Return to the main Install menu.
Colors Select the colors for the 6 windows. (CGA only).
No-colors Set to the monochrome mode. (CGA only).
Reset-colors Switch to color with default colors. (CGA only).
Speed Select Fast or Slow screen save/restore method.
------------------------ MACRO SCREEN MENUS ----------------------------
ESC Return to the TREE screen menu.
Compile Re-compile the macros in the current macro file from
their .JMTs.
Erase Erase a macro.
File Access menu for macro file related commands.
ESC Return to the MACRO screen.
Change Select a new Macro file.
Make-new Create a new Macro file.
Organize Pack the current Macro file.
Get Get a macro command from either the screen or a .JMT file
for future Put operation.
ESC Return to the MACRO screen menu.
File Get the macro command from a .JMT file.
Screen Get macro command from the current macro file.
Learn Enter the macro learning mode.
Mark Mark a macro to indicate starting point and status.
ESC Return to MACRO screen menu.
Reset Reset the macro mark to the unmarked state.
Auto Execute automatically at marked location.
Boot Execute automatically every time you start JOBS.
Global Execute anywhere in the program.
Hidden Prevents display of macro in macro menu.
Local Execute from a specific location.
Once Execute automatically only once each time the macro
file is loaded.
* Indicates the active marks
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 14
JOBS-SW 3.10s COMMAND SUMMARY
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Put Put the macro command from the previous Get to either a
disk file as a .JMT or a key.
ESC Return to the MACRO screen menu.
File Put the macro command to a .JMT disk file.
Screen Put the macro command to the current .JM file.
Rename Give a macro a new name.
Step Set the single step mode ON/OFF.
Trade Trade the macro command at one key with the command at
another key.
View Look at the contents of a compiled macro command.
---------------------- TIMECLOCK SCREEN MENUS --------------------------
ESC Return to the TREE screen menu.
In Timecard time In.
Out Timecard time Out.
Total Total timecard to screen.
List Send totals to disk or printer.
ESC Return to the TIMECLOCK Screen.
Disk Save Total to disk.
Printer Send Total the printer (DOS LST device).
---------------------- DIRECTORY SCREEN MENUS --------------------------
ESC Return to the TREE screen menu.
<.> Access to DOS command line.
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen.
Goto Exit to DOS with no return.
Large-call Goto DOS and return to exact departure location.
Small-call Goto DOS and return to beginning of JOBS.
Attribute Set the highlighted file's attribute.
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen.
Archive-on/off Set the archive flag ON/OFF.
Hidden Set the file attribute to Hidden.
Normal Set the file attribute to Normal.
Read-only Set the file attribute to Read-only.
System Set the file attribute to System.
Batch Do a batch operation on the selected files.
ESC Return to DIRECTORY screen.
Attribute Select the menu to change file attributes.
B-copy Copy the selected files to the alternate directory.
Copy Copy the selected files to any destination.
Dup Copy the selected files to another drive and
duplicate the directory structure.
Erase Erase the selected files.
Log() Set the logging ON or OFF for B-copy and Dup.
Move Move the selected files to a different directory on
the same disk.
Print Goto the PRINT Screen with the selected files.
Rename Rename the selected files.
Time Reset the date/time stamps on selected files.
Comp Compare current screen with alternate screen.
Display Change the display parameters for this directory.
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen.
Arch Display the files with their archive bit set ON.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 15
JOBS-SW 3.10s COMMAND SUMMARY
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date Set the date/time range.
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen.
Between Display files with a date/time between two
given dates and times.
Equal Display files with an equal date/time
Newer-than Display files with a newer date/time
Older-than Display files with an older date/time.
Today Display files with today's date.
Logic() Select next logic display operator (OR, AND, NOT).
Name Pick a subset by name or wildcards.
Order Set the order of the sort.
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen.
Date Sort by date and time.
High-low Sort in a descending order.
Low-high Sort in an ascending order.
Name Sort on filename and filetype.
Size Sort on file size.
Type Sort on filetype and filename.
* Current selected sort method and order.
Path Specify path and files to display.
Reset Set the display back to the program defaults.
Selected Display only those files that have been selected.
Erase Erase the highlighted file.
Flip Flip to the alternate screen.
Rename Rename the highlighted file.
Select Select a group of files based on some conditions.
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen menu.
Arch Select files with their archive bit set.
Date Select by date menu.
ESC Exit to the DIRECTORY screen menu.
Equal Select files with an equal date/time.
Newer-than Select files with a newer date/time.
Older-than Select files with an older date/time.
Today Select files with today's date.
From(ALL) Select from ALL, DISPLAYED, or SELECTED files.
Logic(OR) Logic for next Select operation (OR, AND, NOT).
Match Select files that match filenames in the alternate
directory.
Name Select by name or wildcards.
Reset Return the select parameters to their default state
and de-select all selections.
Sel-file Use a .LST file as the criteria for selection.
Token Select files using tokens as criteria.
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen menu
Copied Select files with the token set to 'x'.
Diamond Select files with the token set to a diamond.
Equal Select files with the token set to '='.
Greater-than Select files with the token set to '<'.
Less-than Select files with the token set to '>'.
View Brings up Dump, Edit, Type, List menu.
ESC Return to DIRECTORY screen menu.
Dump Show a file in hexidecimal format.
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen.
Graphic() Switch the graphic character display ON or OFF.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 16
JOBS-SW 3.10s COMMAND SUMMARY
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Offset Move to a specific offset address from the
beginning of the file.
Search Search for decimal or hex values in file.
Type Switch to the Type mode.
<PgDn> Move forward in the file 336 characters.
<PgUp> Move backward in the file 336 characters.
** EOF ** End of the file is on the screen.
Edit Using your editor, edit the highlighted file.
List Copy directory list to a file or the printer.
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen menu.
Disk List the displayed files to a .LST file.
Printer List the displayed files to the printer.
Type Show a file in ASCII format (text).
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen and menu.
<1>-<9> Change tab expansion, 1 to 9 characters.
Dump Switch to the dump mode.
Graphic() Switch the graphic character display ON or OFF.
Offset Jump to a specific location offset from the
beginning of the file.
Search Search for a text string in the file.
** EOF ** End of File is on the screen.
View Select a file to Type or Dump using a filespec.
------------------------ PRINT SCREEN MENUS ----------------------------
ESC Return to the DIRECTORY screen.
Bell Set the Wait bell ON/OFF.
Control Allows sending control characters to the printer.
Go Begin printing.
Header Define or turn the header ON or OFF.
ESC Return to the PRINT screen menu.
Define Define or edit the page header.
On/off Turn the page header ON or OFF.
Line Set the line related settings.
ESC Return to the PRINT screen menu.
Cut Truncate lines at the specified column.
Tab Set the tab columns.
Output Declare the output destination (File or Printer).
ESC Return to PRINT screen menu
Disk Print the file to a disk file.
Print Print to the DOS LST: device
Page Set the page related settings.
ESC Return to the PRINT screen menu.
Begin Begin the print process at page number.
End End printing after page number.
Lines-used Number of printed lines per page.
Margin Number of columns for the left-hand margin.
Size Set length in lines and the width in columns.
Wait Set the Wait conditions.
ESC Return to the Print menu.
File Return to Print screen menu at the end of each file.
Page Pause at the end of each page.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 17
JOBS-SW 3.10s INSTALLATION SETTINGS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHANGING INSTALLATION SETTINGS
========================================================================
JOBS INSTALL
From either TREE Screen, press <J><I> (Jobs Install) to access the
Install screen. Individual options may be changed, at any time, without
affecting other existing settings. The changes can be Saved permanently
or used for the duration of the current session without affecting the
permanent settings.
DRIVE ------------------------------------------- Add or remove a drive.
JOBS needs to know how many disk drives your computer has and of what
types. This command allows you to modify the list of drives that JOBS
is installed for.
When Adding a drive, Drives A and B default to removable media. Drive C
and above default to non-removable media. Adding a drive that is
already on the drive list will replace the existing one. For a
discussion on removable vs. non-removable see Appendix C.
You may access drives not included in the install list. You will get a
message that the drive has not been installed and JOBS will ask if you
wish to continue. If you answer yes and the drive is physically
present, JOBS will temporarily install the drive. If the drive doesn't
exist, you will be told and the operation terminated.
LOAD ----------------------------- Load installation settings from disk.
When the installation settings are Saved, they are written to JOBS' .EXE
file. Load performs the opposite task, ie., it reads the .EXE file and
replaces the settings currently in memory with those from the disk.
MACRO ----------------------------------------------------- Macro setup.
Macro sets the amount of memory JOBS will set aside for learning a macro
or reading macro text files (filetype '.JMT'). It also allows you to
change the keyboard macro escape key.
The distribution default macro memory size is 5000 bytes, but you may
select any size between 100 and 30,000. This macro memory is the space
necessary to Learn and/or Compile a macro. When a macro is running, the
entire definition is loaded into memory and JOBS allocates sufficient
space (if available) regardless of the maximum macro size set by this
command.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 18
JOBS-SW 3.10s INSTALLATION SETTINGS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The macro escape key is used to to signal the start and end of a macro
learn session, to abort running macros, and as a prefix to special macro
commands. The default macro escape character is the grave accent mark
(`) (ascii 96) which is usually on the same key as the tilde. It may be
changed to any printable character (ascii 32 thru 126) or control
character (ascii 1 thru 31), except <Esc> and <Enter>. You cannot enter
the current macro escape key as a response. Press <Enter> if the
current key is the one that you want. The macro escape key selected
should be convenient to use without conflicting with keys used for other
purposes.
Note: This command only changes the macro escape key. Macro text files
always refer to the macro escape code as '~' (ascii 126).
OPTIONS -------------------------------------------------- Options menu.
This command brings up the Options menu.
Menu line:
ESC Bell Call Data-dir Editor Graphics Memory Tabs Update
JOBS will ring an error bell on improper input or on errors during
operation. This bell can be turned off or the pitch can be set to
either the DOS sound or one of 9 other preset pitches.
For full DOS compatibility, the bell should be set to DOS.
The default type of DOS access (using just <Enter> after the <.>) can be
set to Large-call, Small-call or Goto. The View Edit command uses the
installed Call Edit setting directly, and goes to the editor with no
further interruptions if an editor has been installed. This command
selects the call methods for both conditions. The Echo option
determines whether or not the command line is echoed on the screen as it
is executed.
It's recommended that you use the Large-call method for the editor if
you can afford the extra memory required. This will return you to the
same screen that you left to use the editor.
Failing to find a "J-SWDIR=" in the DOS environment, the installed JOBS
data directory is the directory that JOBS will expect to find its files
in.
JOBS can use your editor as if it were one of JOBS' built-in commands.
The Options Editor command allows you to tell JOBS the name of your
editor or word-processor. If you don't have one or want to disable the
capability, enter 'NONE'. For this feature to be fully useful, your
editor should reside in a directory that is specified by your system
PATH command.
The editor you use must be able to accept a file specified on the DOS
command line. As an example:
C>EDLIN TESTFILE.TXT
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 19
JOBS-SW 3.10s INSTALLATION SETTINGS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
This command line would run EDLIN and EDLIN would automatically load the
file TESTFILE.TXT.
The Graphic or 8th bit, used by some programs for control purposes
instead of graphics, can be turned On or Off. If it is used for
control, you will want the Graphic switch OFF. The JOBS commands Dump,
Type and Print are the only commands affected by this option, and you
can change it as required while viewing or printing files.
You can control how much memory JOBS will use for data with the Options
Memory command. The limits in K bytes (between parenthesis) provide the
minimum and maximum settings allowed. You may specify any integer value
within the limits. When you set the maximum value, JOBS will ask the
operating system for the maximum and automatically adjust to what it
gets. If you specify less that the maximum, JOBS will request the
specified amount and complain if it doesn't get it. For most purposes,
the maximum setting is the one of choice; allowing JOBS to make the most
of what is available. Although JOBS will run if given only the minimum
of scratch pad memory, 20k is probably a more practical lower limit.
The Options Tab command will set the default tab expansion. When a file
is displayed on the screen using the View command or printed with the
Print command, JOBS converts tabs (ASCII 9) into the necessary spaces to
reach the next tab column. Tab columns commonly default to every 8
spaces. Keep in mind that this is only the default value; you may
interactively change the tab columns while typing or printing a file.
The Batch Dup command will leave a set amount of space free on the
destination disk. The Option Update command sets the default value for
the amount of space that will be left. The amount of space can be
anywhere between 0 K bytes and 1,000 K bytes and is specified in integer
values as K bytes. This is only a default value and can be changed on
an individual basis when you use the Dup command.
RESTORE ----------------------------------------- Reset to prior values.
Use this command if you decide, while in the middle of making changes,
that you want to start over. This will restore the installation setting
that was in place just before the Install command was given.
SAVE --------------------------------- Save current installation values.
This saves the current installation settings to that file whose name
appears on the 3rd line from the bottom of the screen. Save will blink,
in the menu line, if the current settings have been changed without
saving.
Unless Saved, installation changes are only temporary.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 20
JOBS-SW 3.10s INSTALLATION SETTINGS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
VIDEO ------------------------------------------------ Video setup menu.
This brings up a menu of commands related to video display options.
If you have a video card that has Color Graphics Adapter (CGA)
capabilities, you will be able to turn the colors on with Reset-colors,
turn them off with No-colors, and select the colors with Color. The
color selection is done from a table of colors for each of the standard
windows used in JOBS, and is made for both the normal and inverse modes.
Reset-colors also returns the display to the distribution default
colors.
The speed and quality of the screen save and restore depends on the type
of display controller in use. To accommodate a variety of systems and
maximize performance, JOBS can perform the save and restore operation
two different ways.
Using Speed Slow, all screen draw and redraw processes will go through
BIOS. This provides the most compatibility and is almost guaranteed to
provide good quality. Set to Slow, JOBS conforms strictly to the BIOS
and DOS requirements.
Fast uses a common method of producing faster screen images that by-
passes the BIOS, causing JOBS to access video memory directly. Under
most conditions this will work just fine, but in some controlled
environments even this amount of deviation from recommended practices
will cause problems. Try both methods and pick the one that suits you
and your operating environment.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 21
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MACROS - CUSTOM COMMANDS
========================================================================
WHAT ARE MACROS?
Macros are commands created by combining JOBS' built in commands.
Besides combining the built in commands, you may also add some commands
that are unique to macros. This combination provides you the ability to
create your own customized solutions. Macros may control the display,
define pop-up windows, wait for keyboard input, execute other macros,
and more.
WHAT CAN THEY DO FOR ME?
Often there are command sequences that you perform repeatedly with
little or no variation. With JOBS' macro capability, you may teach JOBS
the desired command sequence and thereafter execute the command sequence
with a single keystroke. Macros make repetitive operations not only
easier but more accurate.
The ability to link the basic commands together and create your own
unique commands goes a long way toward customizing the program to your
particular needs. The benefit is that you get what you want. The
disadvantage is that you have to teach JOBS what you want.
The Shareware version of JOBS is distributed with a limited set of ready
to run macro commands (JOBS+ comes with approximately 150 macros, and
the list continues to grow). To this you can add commands by 'teaching'
JOBS new commands or creating text file commands that you can then load
into the macro file.
Each macro is assigned to a key or combination of keys called macro
keys. The keys which may have macros assigned to them are the function
keys <F1> through <F10> and the Alternate alphabetic keys <Alt><A>
through <Alt><Z>. The Alt keys are entered by holding down the Alt key
while entering the desired alphabetic key. There is no distinction made
between lower and upper case letters.
MACRO FILES
A macro file may contain up to 36 macros. Only one macro file can be
used at a time, but you can have as many macro files as you want.
The JMAC-SW.JM file is the default macro file for JOBS (as distributed).
On the install screen, you may specify any macro file you wish to be the
default macro file. If no file is specified at the DOS command line
when JOBS is first executed, JOBS will try to load the default macro
file. If the file is not in the Data Directory, JOBS will complain,
disable macros, and then continue.
A new macro file can be created using the File Make-new command or by
copying an existing one.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 22
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The first method, using File Make-new (<F><M>), is done at the MACRO
screen menu. This will create a new and empty file.
For the second method, select the file you want to use as a model and
then use the Batch Copy command. Give the copy a new name. Don't
forget that the filetype must be '.JM'. Go to the MACRO screen and File
Change to the new macro file. Erase the individual macros that you
don't want.
Either method will work. Which you choose will depend on what you want
to accomplish. Using the copy routine ensures that the keys (macros)
used to call standard macros are in the same place.
Changing macro files when you are not running a macro can be done with
the File Change command or using the supplied macro CHG-MAC. Within a
macro, you may use the File Change command or you can use the [$MACFILE]
command.
THE MACRO SCREEN
Except for the actual execution of a macro, all macro activity starts at
the MACRO screen. The MACRO screen has three boxes that list the
macros. Each box consists of three columns.
The first column lists the macro Mark. Macros can be marked Auto, Boot,
Global, Hidden, Local, and Once. The second column is the key for the
macro starting with the Function keys in the first box and the
Alternate-Alpha key in the next two boxes. The third column is the name
of the macro and is limited to 8 characters. Any legal file name
character can be used.
Macros that are highlighted are a special class of macro called
extension macros. They were created using JOBS Extension Language
(JXL), a high level language that we use to customize and add to JOBS'
basic capabilities. These cannot be viewed or converted to text files
(JMT's). They are intended to be used as is and are documented in the
next section of this manual, entitled Ready to Run Macros.
CREATING A MACRO
JOBS will allow you to create macros using the Learn mode or create them
using your personal editor.
In the beginning it will be much easier to use the Learn mode, since
this will guarantee the proper syntax and generally take much less time
for the simple macros.
At some point you will want to modify your existing macros. You now
have the choice of going through the Learn process and creating a new
macro to replace the old one or extracting the individual macro from the
macro file, editing it and then placing the modified macro back into the
macro file.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 23
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Most macro commands may be accessed in the Learn mode, but a few are
available only to macros which have been created as text files. All
macro commands may be used when creating macro text files.
Note: The macro escape character is always defined as '~' (ascii 126)
by macros when they are in text form, although the actual macro
escape key defaults to '`' (ascii 96) and may be changed by the
macro command ~E, or at the INSTALL screen.
CREATING MACROS WITH LEARN
For an explanation of how to put JOBS into the Learn mode, goto JOBS'
macro screen (press <J><M> at a TREE screen) and select HELP for the
Learn command.
Note: The supplied macro, LEARN, automates the start Learn process.
See the section 'READY TO RUN MACROS'.
In the Learn mode, special macro escape commands are accessed by
pressing the macro escape key, followed by the first character of the
command's name.
You may also wish to call other macros while in Learn mode. Press the
macro key for the macro you wish to [CALL]. On the macro information
line, JOBS will confirm that you wish to [CALL] another macro. Answer
<Y>es and JOBS will insert the [CALL] instruction inoto the current
macro. The referenced macro will be run, and when that macro is
complete, JOBS will return to recording your keystrokes.
In Learn mode, macros may not [CALL] themselves; either directly or
indirectly. A macro that calls itself is said to be recursive.
Recursive macros may be created as text files.
In Learn, all references to other macros are automatically performed as
[CALL]s by name instead of [CALL] by key or as [GOTO]s (see [GOTO], this
section).
CORRECTING MISTAKES WHILE LEARNING.
If you enter an illegal keystroke (one that rings the bell), JOBS will
automatically 'un-record' it on the next keystroke.
If you enter a legal keystroke, but not the one you wanted, there are a
couple of ways to correct what JOBS has learned,depending on the
situation. You must first enter the commands needed to return JOBS to
where it was before the unwanted key was entered. JOBS will record
these keystrokes, not knowing that you are merely trying to correct an
error. Having backed up to the point where the error occurred, the only
thing that remains to be done is getting JOBS to forget the unwanted
keystrokes. There are two ways to do this.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 24
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. If you are at a place in the program where <BackSpace> hasn't any
meaning you may merely <BackSpace> over the unwanted keystrokes.
The bell will ring (for the illegal keystrokes), but you needn't be
concerned because the learning part of JOBS will dutifully un-record
the unwanted keystrokes and ignore the illegal keystroke errors.
2. If you are at a place in the program where <BackSpace> is a legal
keystroke, (ie., at a text input prompt), for each recorded
keystroke you wish to un-record, press the macro escape key followed
by <BackSpace>. JOBS will un-record keystrokes without passing the
<BackSpace> on to the operation being learned.
MACRO TEXT FILES
A .JMT file is a standard ascii file containing an individual macro in
text form. This file can be created either from scratch with a text
editor or by using the Learn mode and then using the Get Screen/Put File
commands to create the text file.
The Get Screen command will extract an individual macro from the current
macro file and place the macro in an intermediate buffer. From this
buffer, you can then Put it to a disk file (filetype '.JMT') using the
File option.
To place this .JMT file back into the macro file (.JM), you must Get
File the .JMT from the disk and then Put Screen, which assigns it to a
key of your choice in the current macro file.
Note: The supplied macros, EDMAC and FRESHEN, automate the macro text
editing process. See the section 'READY TO RUN MACROS'.
CHARACTERS USED IN MACRO TEXT FILES
All alpha, numeric and normal character keys are usable.
The following non-alphanumeric key combinations are translated to
control characters and are specified by their control character names.
Key In .JMT file Alternate
----------- ------------ ---------
<Esc> ^[ [ESC]
<Enter> ^M [RET]
<Ins> ^]
<Del> ^G
<Home> ^^
<End> ^_
<PgUp> ^R
<PgDn> ^C
(Up arrow) ^E
(Down arrow) ^X
(Right arrow) ^D
(Left arrow) ^S
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 25
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The macro escape symbol in text files is always the tilde (~).
In text macros, spaces, tabs, carriage returns, and line-feeds are not
significant except in window text. Use these characters freely to
enhance the readability of the macro text file.
Preceding any character with the macro escape symbol will cause that
character to be included, ie., ~~will include ~, ~<Space> includes the
space character.
<Enter> and <Esc> may also be included as [RET] and [ESC], respectively.
TEXT FILE COMMANDS
Macros created using your editor may also use the 'bracketed' commands.
These are only available to macros created as text files, and are
delimited with square brackets.
In the macro text file, any significant character that is not part of an
escape command or a bracketed command will be passed to JOBS as a
recorded keystroke.
MACRO COMMAND REFERENCE
The macro commands are split into three categories based on their
application within JOBS.
1. Menu Commands are the commands that the macro selects from JOBS'
regular menus, ie., the recorded keystrokes.
2. Macro Escape Commands can be used while Learning or creating a text
file.
3. Bracketed Commands are only available to macros created with an
editor. They are not available while using the Learn mode.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 26
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MACRO ESCAPE COMMANDS
~Bell ------------------------------------------------------------------
Enable/disable the JOBS error bell.
Text format: ~B[ON] or ~B[OFF]
~Delay -----------------------------------------------------------------
Delay specified number of seconds before continuing with macro.
Text format: ~D[nnn] nnn may be any value between 0 and 240.
Example:
~D[5] [* Suspend operations for 5 seconds and then continue. *]
Comments: This is a fixed delay, see the Pause command (in this
section) for a delay that can be interrupted by the keyboard.
~Escape ----------------------------------------------------------------
Change current macro escape key. The default macro escape key is <`> .
This is the grave accent key. The new macro escape key remains in
effect until changed by another ~E command or until JOBS is exited.
Text format: ~Ex the macro escape key would become 'x'
Example:
~E@ [* Change the macro escape key to '@'. *]
Comments: When changing the macro escape key the user should avoid
choosing a key that conflicts with one of JOBS' command keys.
~Help ------------------------------------------------------------------
Turn JOBS' context sensitive HELP processor ON/OFF. When HELP is turned
OFF, the <F1> key will be treated the same as the other macro keys; ie.,
if it is defined the macro will be run. Once turned OFF, HELP remains
OFF until turned ON again by an ~H[ON] or until macro processing is
completed.
Text format: ~H[ON] or ~H[OFF]
Comments: With HELP on, the [F-1] macro may only be accessed from
another macro; using either [CALL] or [GOTO].
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 27
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
~Keyboard --------------------------------------------------------------
Take input from keyboard up to and including a specified character, then
continue with remainder of macro. All keys input up to the specified
character are passed through to JOBS.
Text format: ~Kx 'x' is the key to wait for.
Example:
~K[RET] [* Wait for the <Enter> or <Return> key. *]
Comments: This command allows macros to be suspended, accept keyboard
input, and then continue.
If 'x' is the current macro escape character, JOBS will accept only one
character from the keyboard, regardless of what that character is.
~Mark ------------------------------------------------------------------
Mark macro start location. This provides the ability to Mark and change
the starting location and status of a macro from within a running macro.
This command, when used inside a macro, has the same effect as pressing
the macro escape key while outside a macro.
Text format: ~M
Comments: This command is useful for dynamically changing Auto macro
locations or assignments for error trapping or menu windows.
~Pause -----------------------------------------------------------------
Pause and wait for a keystroke or for a specified length of time (in
seconds), whichever comes first. If the time value is set to 0, JOBS
will wait indefinitely for a keystroke before continuing with the
remainder of the macro.
Text format: ~P[nnn] nnn is any value from 0 to 240
Example:
~P[5] [* Wait for any key and give up after 5 seconds. *]
~Reset -----------------------------------------------------------------
Do a complete reset of JOBS program. JOBS will immediately stop macro
processing and jump to the installed drive's TREE screen, resetting
itself to the state it was in when first loaded into memory.
Text format: ~R
Comments: With ~T[ON],(see ~Trap following), any error that occurs
while a macro is running will automatically cause a Reset. If a macro
is Marked to automatically run at the TREE screen, it will be run after
the Reset operation; thus providing a means to recover from errors.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 28
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
~Screen ----------------------------------------------------------------
Screen output may be turned ON/OFF with this command. This will quiet
warning messages but leave fatal messages and HELP style error messages
active. (see also [WIND][PROT]). The screen is always ON outside
macros.
Text format: ~S[ON] or ~S[OFF]
Comments: Screen OFF commands follow the command that screen OFF should
begin with and screen ON commands precede them. JOBS looks one command
ahead for screen OFFs but only actuates screen ONs when it comes to
them. For example, the following short macro does a jump from the macro
screen to the DIRECTORY screen without displaying the TREE screen.
~S[OFF] is processed before [ESC], while ~S[ON] is only processed before
the View command if it placed before it.
Example:
[ESC] [* Exit macro screen. *]
~S[OFF] [* Turn off screen I/O. *]
p\[RET] [* Move tree pointer to root directory. *]
~S[ON]v [* Turn screen back on and View directory. *]
~Trap ------------------------------------------------------------------
Macro error trap. When ON, errors cause JOBS to Reset (See ~Reset).
Text format: ~T[ON] or ~T[OFF]
Comments: Any error that rings the bell will cause JOBS to Reset if
Trap is on. (except for the out of space bell at text prompts)
~Verify ----------------------------------------------------------------
Verify ON/OFF. Operations such as erasing or copying files, changing
file attributes, etc., will be performed without confirming the erasure
or overwrite if Verify is OFF. Verify is always ON outside macros.
Text format: ~V[ON] or ~V[OFF]
Range: ON or OFF
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 29
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
~Window ----------------------------------------------------------------
Activate window editor.
Prompts: Window number? (1-6)
Text format: Not applicable.
Comments: After picking the window number you wish to use, JOBS will
display the description menu from which you can describe the window.
Once the window's descriptors have been selected, JOBS will display an
empty window in the middle of the screen. With the cursor keys you may
move this window, and also change its size. With <NumLock> off, the
cursor keys change the window's size. With <NumLock> on, the cursor
keys move the window around the screen. Press <Esc> when the window's
size and location are satisfactory.
When the window has been described and located, JOBS will display the
menu:
ESC Describe Edit Locate
ESC Exit the window editor, return to Learn mode.
Describe Brings up window description menu.
Edit Edit window's contents.
Locate Set window's size and location.
At this menu you can return to the description menu, relocate the
window, quit this window definition and continue teaching, or add text
to the window using the built-in editor. Select Edit and JOBS will
display the window and place the cursor in the upper left corner ready
to accept text.
The editor is always in the insert mode (as opposed to overwrite) and
will not allow you to enter characters if it will cause a line to exceed
the width or height of the window. However, you may read files from
disk whose lines exceed the width or height of the window; the excess
will be truncated for display but will be retained within the macro
text.
Blink, high intensity, or inverse on allows you to move the cursor to
the right causing each character passed over to take on the selected
attribute. You may undo/backspace with (Left arrow) or <Ctrl><S>. When
finished, exit with <Esc>.
Insert graphic character brings up an ASCII table from which you may
pick a character by number. You are then prompted for the quantity of
the selected character you wish to insert at the current cursor
position.
Once you exit the description menu, you cannot go back and re-edit the
window. There is no return once you exit. JOBS will confirm your
desire to exit the window editor. To re-edit a window, turn the macro
into a JMT file and edit the text.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 30
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The window editor utilizes the same keystroke conventions as Wordstar
and supports the following commands:
COMMAND DESCRIPTION
------------- ----------------------------------
<Esc> exit editor
<Home> move to start of line
<End> move to end of line
<BackSpace> delete character to left of cursor
<Del> delete character under cursor
<PgUp> move to top of window
<PgDn> move to bottom of window
(Right arrow) move cursor right
(Left arrow) move cursor left
(Up arrow) move cursor up one line
(Down arrow) move cursor down one line
<Ctrl><A> move cursor back one word
<Ctrl><C> same as <PgDn>
<Ctrl><D> same as (Right arrow)
<Ctrl><E> same as (Up arrow)
<Ctrl><F> move cursor forward one word
<Ctrl><G> same as <Del>
<Ctrl><K> ^K command prefix
<Ctrl><B> or <B> mark start of block
<Ctrl><C> or <C> copy marked block to cursor location
<Ctrl><K> or <K> mark end of block
<Ctrl><R> or <R> read file from disk, insert at cursor
<Ctrl><W> or <W> write marked block to disk
<Ctrl><Y> or <Y> delete marked block
any other key cancels operation
<Ctrl><O> ^O command prefix
<Ctrl><B> or <B> start blink on
<Ctrl><C> or <C> center text in current line
<Ctrl><G> or <G> insert graphic character(s)
<Ctrl><H> or <H> start high intensity on
<Ctrl><I> or <I> start inverse on
any other key cancels operation
<Ctrl><N> insert linefeed at cursor
<Ctrl><Q> ^Q command prefix
<Ctrl><B> or <B> move cursor to beginning of marked block
<Ctrl><D> or <D> same and <End>
<Ctrl><K> or <K> move cursor to end of marked block
<Ctrl><S> or <S> same as <Home>
<Ctrl><Y> or <Y> erase from cursor to end of line
any other key cancels operation
<Ctrl><R> same as <PgUp>
<Ctrl><S> same as (Left arrow)
<Ctrl><X> same as (Down arrow)
<Ctrl><Y> delete line
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 31
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE BRACKETED COMMANDS
These commands represent an additional macro capability. They are used
when creating or enhancing macros with an editor, and cannot be used in
the Learn mode.
[$MACFILE] -------------------------------------------------------------
This variable holds the name of the current macro file. Assigning it a
valid macro file name (without the extension) causes JOBS to load the
specified file. If the file is not found the current macro file remains
unchanged. Assigning the variable the name of the current macro file
has no effect.
Format: [$MACFILE = "mac"] "mac" is the name of a valid macro file.
[* ... *] --------------------------------------------------------------
Macro .JMT files may be freely commented by placing comments between [*
and *]. Comments may be as long you wish, covering as many lines as you
wish. When JOBS compiles the JMT, commented text is discarded; so no
penalty is paid for extensive commenting of source code.
Comments may be nested within one another. Comments may not be included
between [WIND] and [ENDWIND].
[ASK][SELECT] ----------------------------------------------------------
This will check the keyboard for a keystroke. It will only accept legal
keys. For macro keys, it will attempt to [GOTO] the macro assigned to
the entered key. Non-macro keys will fall through and the macro will
continue. A failed [GOTO] will result in an error message.
Format: [ASK][SELECT]
[BELL] -----------------------------------------------------------------
This will ring the bell once if either ~B[ON] or JOBS is installed to
ring the bell on an error.
Format: [BELL]
[CALL] -----------------------------------------------------------------
Call another macro in the current macro file and return. When the
called macro is completed, macro processing resumes with the next
command following the [CALL]. Nesting of macros with the [CALL] command
is limited to 6 calls deep. [CALL] has several formats:
Format: [CALL][F-10] Call the macro assigned to <F10>.
[CALL][A-C] Call the macro assigned to <Alt><C>.
[CALL]["MACNAME"] Call the macro named "MACNAME".
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 32
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[EXIT] -----------------------------------------------------------------
[EXIT] causes JOBS to immediately exit the current macro. If the
current macro was called by another, control is returned to the caller.
Exiting an un-nested macro causes macro processing to end with the
message "macro completed". Running off the end of a macro has the same
effect.
Format: [EXIT]
[GOTO] -----------------------------------------------------------------
Goto another macro in the current macro file and do not return. The
format of the [GOTO] command is the same as that of the [CALL] command.
Format: [GOTO][F-10] Goto the macro assigned to <F10>.
[GOTO][A-C] Goto the macro assigned to <Alt><C>.
[GOTO]["MACNAME"] Goto the macro named "MACNAME".
[GOTO] is more memory efficient than the [CALL]. With the [CALL]
command, the calling macro remains in memory. With the [GOTO] command,
the macro containing the [GOTO] is discarded and its memory becomes
available for other uses.
[KEY] ------------------------------------------------------------------
The next macro key is to be taken literally and passed to program.
Format: [KEY][F-1] Passes the F-1 key to the program.
[LEGAL]..[ENDLEGAL] or [ILLEGAL]..[ENDLEGAL] ---------------------------
Individual keystrokes may be declared legal or illegal. Illegal
keystrokes will be ignored by JOBS. To declare any key legal or
illegal, place its name between the appropriate delimiters. Keys
specified may include ^A (ascii 1) through ~ (ascii 126) and the macro
keys.
Format: [LEGAL] (list of keys) [ENDLEGAL]
[ILLEGAL] (list of keys) [ENDLEGAL]
Examples:
[LEGAL]A^C.[A-B][ENDLEGAL] [* declares that 'A', CTRL-C, '.' and
ALT-B are legal keystrokes and all
others are not. *]
[ILLEGAL]J[F-2]7^^[ENDLEGAL] [* declares that 'J', F-2, '7', and Home
are illegal and all other keys are
legal. *]
Multiple declaration are not cumulative, that is, each declaration
completely redefines legal/illegal keystrokes.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 33
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Keystroke status remains in effect until redefined and only inside of
macros.
Note that the non-alphanumeric keys are represented and translated as
described earlier in the section (see Characters Used in Macro Text
Files).
The <F1> key (HELP) is not affected by these declarations unless HELP is
turned off with ~H command.
ALT-F?, SHIFT-F?, ALT-# are always illegal and unused by JOBS.
[MACRO] ----------------------------------------------------------------
This may be used to supply the macro's name. No actual commands are
generated by this statement. If JOBS finds this statement anywhere in
the .JMT file, it will supply the given name as the default when
prompted for the macros name at completion of the Macro Get File
operation.
Format: [MACRO][MACSNAME] supplies the name 'MACSNAME'.
This statement is optional. In any case, it supplies only the default
name. You may supply a different name at the prompt if you wish.
[START] ----------------------------------------------------------------
This may be used, in a .JMT file, to supply the macro's starting
location. It is the same task performed by marking. No macro commands
are generated by the statement. Each location in the program has a
unique identifier. This is a character string of from one to four
characters long.
Format:
[START][loc] Where loc is the location string. This
macro may only begin at loc.
[START][BOOT] To start the macro from the TREE screen
once each time JOBS is started.
[START][GLOBAL] The macro may be run at any location.
In addition, the following modifiers may be appended to the [START]
command:
[AUTO] Run this macro automatically each time
JOBS comes to loc.
[HIDDEN] This macro is not to be run from the
keyboard. It may be called by other
macros.
[ONCE] Limit this [AUTO] macro to running
automatically only once.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 34
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Examples:
[START][T] [* Start this one at the TREE screen. *]
[START][DD][AUTO] [* Run this macro automatically at the
DIRECTORY screen's Display menu. *]
[START][GLOBAL][HIDDEN] [* Call by another macro at any
location. Can't be run from keyboard.*]
To determine the location identifier for a particular program location,
Mark it's location with the macro escape key (see the Macro screen's
Mark command HELP text). JOBS will display the message:
Marked at: "LOC" where LOC is the location identifier.
When JOBS looks through the macro list for BOOT or AUTO macros, only one
will be finally selected, regardless of how many are found. The one
selected will be the one closest to the top of the macro menu.
[STOP] -----------------------------------------------------------------
The [STOP] command causes JOBS to immediately terminate macro processing
with the message "macro discontinued."
Format: [STOP]
[WIND]..[ENDWIND] ------------------------------------------------------
[WIND] is the keyword declaring that a window definition follows. Each
bracketed keyword between [WIND] and W# are descriptors which describe
the window. All descriptors are optional, and may appear in any order.
The W# through LLIN are mandatory parameters for the first use of that
window and they MUST appear in this exact order. All [WIND] commands
must terminate with a matching [ENDWIND].
Subsequent use of the same window only needs the [WIND] command,
optional descriptors, and W#. Window attributes and coordinates will
default to those provided by the last definition of this W#.
[WIND] and its parameters must reside on a line by themselves. Any
lines between that line and the line containing [ENDWIND] will be
displayed as text. Text may be highlighted with blinking, high
intensity, or inverse video by delimiting the desired area with ~B, ~H,
or ~I; respectively.
Once a window is defined, its definition will not be altered until it is
redefined by a macro command. Window definitions remain active even
outside macros.
Format:
[WIND].. descriptors ..W#,FG,BG,LCOL,ULIN,RCOL,LLIN
desired text
[ENDWIND]
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 35
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
DESCRIPTORS
------------
The 'descriptors' may include:
[BORDER][CLEAR][FREE][INVERSE][PROT][RESTORE][SAVE]
[BORDER] Display window with double line border around it.
[CLEAR] Clear window area. If the defined window contains text,
[CLEAR] is implied.
[FREE] This keyword is used to free storage used previously to [SAVE]
this window. Saved screen areas remain stored until released with the
[FREE] descriptor, macro processing is completed, or a ~R (reset)
occurs.
[INVERSE] Cause the entire window to be displayed in inverse video, a
swap of FG and BG
[PROT] will prevent this window from being overwritten by subsequent
screen output. This protection will remain in affect until this W# is
used again. Protected status is also lost if another program is run
from JOBS. Protection remains in affect even after macro processing is
completed.
[RESTORE] restore an area on the screen that was previously saved,
using this window number.
[SAVE] saves that portion of the screen which will be overwritten by
the new window. Once a screen area is saved, it may be restored, any
number of times, using the [RESTORE] descriptor.
PARAMETERS
-----------
W# Specifies the window number. There are 6 window structures which
may be used to define and maintain macro windows. They are numbered
from 1 through 6.
FG Specifies foreground color/attribute. The range is a number from 1
to 127. Setting this value to 0 will cause this window to use the
installed color settings for the corresponding JOBS window number (See
the install color setting screen for corresponding window number
assignments).
BG Specifies background color/attribute. This value is ignored if
FG=0. The range is 1 to 127.
LCOL Specifies the window's left hand column. The range is 1 to 80,
the left most column on the screen being column 1.
ULIN Specifies the window's upper line. The range is 1 to 25, the top
line on the screen being line 1.
RCOL Specifies the window's right hand column. The range is 1 to 80.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 36
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
LLIN Specifies the window's lower line. The range is 1 to 25.
[SAVE], [RESTORE] and [PROT] are tied to the window number and
subsequent use of a window number cancels previous settings for these
descriptors. However, windows may be used to clear or display text and
immediately re-used to display other another window of text without
affecting the original display.
Window coordinates are also tied to the window number. If a window with
a particular size and location is defined, and that same window number
is later used without specifying size and location, the initial
specifications will be used. Using a previously uninitialized window
number without specifying its coordinates will cause that window's
coordinates to default to those of the corresponding JOBS window number.
Window definition commands may be in upper or lower case. Window text
may include any ascii value. To include the ~ character in text,
precede it with a ~ (~~).
Macro comments (text between [* and *]) should not be placed between
[WIND] and [ENDWIND].
... WINDOW example 1 ...
[WIND][BORDER][INVERSE]1,0,0,1,1,80,25
first line in window - 2nd line on screen
3rd line in window - 4th line on screen
[ENDWIND]
This defines a full screen window with a border. The window is cleared
and the two lines of text are displayed; one on the top line of the
window (1st one below the border) and another on the third line. The
default screen attributes for window number 1 are used. The entire
window is cleared using the inverse attribute.
... WINDOW example 2 ...
[WIND][SAVE][INVERSE]4,0,0,1,24,80,25
Press <~hY~h> to erase, <~hN~h> to skip.
Press <~hEsc~h> to abandon file erase process.
[ENDWIND]
This definition clears the 2 lines at the bottom of the screen using
inverse video. It uses the default colors for window 4 (JOBS' menu
window). Two lines of text are displayed in this window and no border
is used. This two line area of the screen was saved, in window 4's
storage, before displaying the new window.
Notice the ~h preceding and following the characters inside of the <>.
~h is the escape sequence that turns the high intensity video on or off.
~i and ~b are the escape codes for inverse video and blinking.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 37
JOBS-SW 3.10s MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
... WINDOW example 3 ...
[WIND][RESTORE]4
[ENDWIND]
This window command will restore the screen area saved in example 2.
Without a [FREE] descriptor, the saved area remains in storage and may
be restored any number of times.
... WINDOW example 4 ...
[WIND][PROT]W#
[ENDWIND]
Turns on protection for previously defined window.
... WINDOW example 5 ...
[WIND][SAVE][BORDER][CLEAR]W#,0,0,5,10,15,20
[ENDWIND]
Clears window (10 lines x 10 columns) and encloses clear area with a
double line border. The area cleared by this window is saved for later
restore. Any previous protection of this W# is turned off.
... WINDOW example 6 ...
[WIND][RESTORE][FREE]W#
[ENDWIND]
Restore the contents of previously saved window and free the storage.
The memory used for storing the screen information is released to be
used elsewhere. Any protection associated with this window is removed.
... WINDOW example 7 ...
[WIND][BORDER]W#,0,0,1,1,80,25
[ENDWIND]
Puts a border around the entire screen without clearing the screen
inside the border. Windows are only cleared if the descriptor [CLEAR]
is used or they contain text to display.
Note: Use the window editor in Learn mode to create syntactically
correct windows every time, it's fun to do.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 38
JOBS-SW 3.10s READY TO RUN MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
READY TO RUN MACROS
========================================================================
JMAC-SW.JM
JMAC-SW.JM is the default macro file for the shareware distribution
version of JOBS. The following is a description of each of the macros
provided in the file. Each of these macros' access method or limits are
noted by the following key words preceding their description.
EXT Referred to as Extension macros, these are macros
that have special capabilities not available to the
distributed version of the JOBS macro language.
These macros also have the additional restriction
that they cannot be Viewed, Stepped, or Put to a
text file. They are displayed on the MACRO screen
in reverse video.
CALL Some of them may be [CALL]ed by macros that you
create. The callable macros are distinguished by
CALL following their names. These macros may also
be accessed using the [GOTO] command.
GLOBAL Many of these macro commands are insensitive to
where they begin running, ie., they may be run at
any time, from any menu.
To execute these commands:
1. Change to the macro file called JMAC-SW. As this is the default
macro file, this step will usually be unnecessary unless you have
previously changed the current macro file. Press <Tab>, any time,
to see the currently defined macros and the name of the current
file.
2. For macros which are not Marked GLOBAL, go to the appropriate JOBS
menu.
3.Press the macro key that the command is assigned to. Remember, <A-x>
refers to pressing the <Alt> key at the same time as you press key <x>;
<F-2> refers to function key number 2.
DOS-CMDS ---------------------- <F-3> ---------------- EXT, CALL, GLOBAL
DOS-CMDS opens a DOS command line at the bottom of screen and may be
selected at any time, anywhere in JOBS. HELP <F1> is available. The
command line can be edited using the cursor and edit keys and the last
executed command line is available by pressing the <Ins> key. This is a
short cut with help for the <.> DOS access command. It will use the
default Call/Goto method, selected on the Install screen.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 39
JOBS-SW 3.10s READY TO RUN MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
DO ---------------------------- <F-4> ------ EXT, CALL, DIRECTORY Screen
DO is similar to DOS-CMDS except that it will place the name of the
file, pointed to by the file pointer, on the command line. The command
line may be edited or executed 'as is'. DO will only accept files
having the file type of .EXE, .COM, or .BAT.
Remember that if you have captured a path or filename, these can be
added to the command line with a <^P> for the path, a <^F> for the file
name and extension, or a <^N> for just the file name.
LEARN ------------------------- <F-5> ---------------------- EXT, GLOBAL
LEARN is a quick way to put JOBS in Learn mode. This macro may be run
from anywhere in JOBS. It will automatically place you at the MACRO
screen and prompt you for the macro key to be defined. Once you have
selected the key and named the new macro, JOBS will return to the TREE
screen; ready to begin learning.
ARC-SEL ----------------------- <A-A> ------ EXT, CALL, DIRECTORY Screen
If you use either of the popular archive programs, you will find this
macro to be very handy. It provides a menu to access the 5 most common
archive operations.
With ARC-SEL you may select the files to be archived using JOBS
selection commands and ARC-SEL will automatically compose the necessary
command line(s) for the archive programs.
ARC-SEL defaults to using PKWARE's archive programs. To use the the
archiver from System Enhancement Associates, place the following
variable in the DOS environment:
ARCHIVER=ARC
where ARC is the name of their program that both adds and extracts
to/from archive files. PKWARE uses separate programs for adding and
extracting; PKARC and PKXARC, respectively.
CHG-MAC ----------------------- <A-C> ---------------- EXT, CALL, GLOBAL
This macro provides a convenient way to change macro files from anywhere
in JOBS. It opens a window and displays a list of the macro files
currently in the Data Directory. Using the cursor keys, point to the
desired macro file. Press <Enter> to change to the selected file or
<Esc> to remain in the current file.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 40
JOBS-SW 3.10s READY TO RUN MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
EDMAC ------------------------- <A-E> ---------------- EXT, CALL, GLOBAL
This macro integrates your editor into the macro screen. Using EDMAC,
you may edit an existing macro or create a new one. Upon return from
editing, the macro is automatically compiled (Get File) and saved (Put
Screen).
To run EDMAC, press <A-E> anywhere in the program. EDMAC will
automatically moves you to the Macro screen and prompts you for the
macro key of the macro you wish to edit. If you select the key of an
already defined macro, EDMAC will check to see if that macro's .JMT file
already exists. If so, EDMAC will ask if you wish to use the existing
.JMT file or create a new one (overwriting the old one).
If you select the key of an undefined macro, EDMAC will prompt you for
the new macro's name. Enter the new macro name, and EDMAC will create
the empty .JMT file; ready to edit. If the name that you select already
exists as a .JMT file, EDMAC will ask if you want to replace it.
When editing is complete and you exit your editor, EDMAC will compile
the newly edited .JMT file and save it to the current macro file using
the key that you originally selected.
To use EDMAC, you must tell JOBS the name of your editor. This is done
on the Install screen. If you have not installed your editor, EDMAC
will ask for the name of your editor each time you use it.
FRESHEN ----------------------- <A-F> ---------- EXT, CALL, MACRO Screen
This macro compiles a single macro from its .JMT file, given a key in
the current macro file. It automatically does the Get and Put required
to update an existing macro. At the macro screen, press <Alt><F> and
the the macro key of the macro you wish to update. An error will be
reported if the appropriate .JMT can not be found. Updating an
undefined key has no effect.
EDMAC and FRESHEN make macro text file development quick and easy. For
convenience, place copies of them in each of your macro files.
GOTOTREE ---------------------- <A-G> ---------------- EXT, CALL, GLOBAL
GOTOTREE does just that, it provides the necessary keystrokes to return
to a TREE screen. It can be run from anywhere in JOBS. When creating
your own macros, calling this macro as the first instruction in your
macro guarantees that your macro will begin at a tree screen. Your
macro may then be Marked as Global. Run from the keyboard, this macro
is a handy way to return to a TREE screen without pressing <Esc>
repeatedly or performing a reset.
DATE-HI ----------------------- <A-H> ----------------- DIRECTORY Screen
This will change the sort order of the DIRECTORY Screen to Date High-low
and place the file pointer at the top of the list.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 41
JOBS-SW 3.10s READY TO RUN MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
GO-SMENU ---------------------- <A-M> --------------------- CALL, GLOBAL
This macro changes the current macro file to SAMPMENU.JM and causes the
sample menu to be displayed. SAMPMENU.JM is provided as an example of
how to create your own menus using JOBS macros. Try it out. The source
.JMT for the menu is named SMENU.JMT and contains an explanation of how
to customize the menu to suit your needs.
MAKEPATH ---------------------- <A-P> ---------------- EXT, CALL, GLOBAL
MAKEPATH provides a quick and painless way to create and enter a new
PATH= list (equivalent to the DOS path command). Try it, it has its own
HELP windows. It can be run from anywhere in JOBS.
CONTINUE ---------------------- <A-Q> ---------------- EXT, CALL, GLOBAL
Continue is a subroutine to be called by other macros. It is used by
other macros to ask the question "Continue? (Y/N) <N>." Answering <N>o
or <Esc> will will terminate macro processing. With a <Y>es answer,
control is returned to the calling macro.
README ------------------------ <A-R> ---------------------- EXT, GLOBAL
This allows you to recall either the JOBS READ.ME file or this .DOC
file. Use it to view these files on screen or to print them. This
macro expects these two files to be in JOBS' data directory.
TREEPRNT ---------------------- <A-T> ----------------- EXT, TREE Screen
TREEPRNT will print a copy of your tree to your printer. It produces a
file called "TREE.IMG" in JOBS' data directory and then prints the image
using JOBS' Print Utility.
As distributed, TREEPRNT is set to use standard ascii characters. It
has its own setup routine to change the codes it uses for the 5 graphic
characters needed to print the tree. To change these codes for use with
a your printer, run TREEPRNT and when prompted for a comment line enter
the word 'setup'. It will prompt you for the ascii codes for the
5 characters it uses to print the tree. Setup saves these codes for
future use, so you need only perform this setup if you are changing
printers.
This setup will also help you build the printer initialization macro.
See TREEINIT below.
Note: As distributed, the TREEPRNT routine uses standard ascii
characters for the tree graphics. In this configuration
the tree may be printed on any standard printer.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 42
JOBS-SW 3.10s READY TO RUN MACROS
------------------------------------------------------------------------
TREEINIT ---------------------- <A-U> ---------------------- TREE Screen
TREEPRNT calls this macro, at the PRINT Screen, just before it prints
the directory tree. It is a non-EXT macro that you can replace, edit,
or delete to suit your needs. As distributed, it uses the Print Utility
Control command to advance the paper two lines and the Line Cut command
to limit the printout to 80 columns or less. You may edit this macro to
do anything you wish done before printing the tree, so long as this
macro exits at the PRINT Screen.
If TREEINIT is not defined, no printer initialization will be performed.
LSTFILES ---------------------- <A-V> --------------------------- GLOBAL
A subroutine used by PICK-LST. See below.
WRITER ------------------------ <A-W> ---------------- EXT, CALL, GLOBAL
Turn your system into an expensive typewriter with this command. It's
handy for addressing envelopes, making labels and quick notes. Used in
combination with the Print Utility Control command, you can change
fonts, line spacing, etc., as needed. The typewriter's output may be
re-directed using MODE.COM.
DISP2DAY ---------------------- <A-X> ----------------- DIRECTORY Screen
This macro limits the file list to display only those files having dates
equal to the most recent two days in the current directory.
PICK-LST ----------------- <A-Y> and <A-Z> ------------ DIRECTORY Screen
The PICK-LST macros make creating .LST files and selecting files using a
.LST file quicker and easier. They automatically execute each time you
select the View List Disk or Select Sel-file commands. Each opens a
window and displays a list of the .LST files found in the data
directory. If there are more than 10 .LST files, you may use the cursor
keys to page through them. Selecting a file from the window with the
<Enter> key will put that file's name on the prompt line. You can now
edit the name or use it as-is by pressing <Enter>. To enter a new name,
just type in its name and the .LST window will be cleared. Once cleared
the .LST window may be re-displayed by pressing the up-arrow key.
Each PICK-LST is marked Auto to run at either the Select Sel-list or
View List Disk command automatically. To disable either macro, remove
the Auto Mark.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 43
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix A - JOBS Files
------------------------------------------------------------------------
JOBS FILES
========================================================================
THE SHAREWARE DISTRIBUTION SET CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING FILES.
FILE FUNCTION DIRECTORY LOCATION
------------ ------------------------------ ------------------
JOBS-SW.EXE Main Program Any Dir in PATH
JOBS-SW.OV Overlay for JOBS Data Directory
JOBS-SW.HLP Basic JOBS HELP Data Directory
JERR-SW.HLP Basic JOBS error messages Data Directory
JMAC-SW.JM Default macro file Data Directory
JINST-SW.JM Install macro file Data Directory
JOBS-SW.DOC Manual for shareware version Data Directory
JREAD-SW.ME Read first text Data Directory
SAMPMENU.JM Macro file with sample menu Data Directory
SMENU.JMT Macro source code for sample menu Data Directory
The directory location is where the file must be for JOBS to use it.
The DATA DIRECTORY is the directory that was selected by you during
installation or the one pointed to by the J-SWDIR= variable in the DOS
environment. JOBS will always look there for its files.
JOBS MAY CREATE THE FOLLOWING FILES
FILE FUNCTION DIRECTORY LOCATION
------------ ------------------------------ ------------------
BACKUP.LST Output from Log command Data Directory
DIR.LST Default output from View List Data Directory
JFIND.LST Results of last Find Data Directory
JTREE. JOBS image of the tree structure Root Directory
TIMECLK.TIM Default Timeclock file Data Directory
TIMECLK.TOT Default Timeclock totals file Data Directory
(*.* Files for JOBS' own use Data Directory
*.JMT Macro text file Data Directory
*.LST Selection list files Data Directory
*.TIM Timeclock file(s) Data Directory
*.TOT Timeclock totals file(s) Data Directory
*.!?? Backup for *.??? file(s) Data Directory
*.$?? File *.??? printed to disk Current Directory
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 44
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix A - JOBS Files
------------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES ON SOME OF THE FILES.
JOBS-SW.EXE and JOBS-SW.OV - These two files are the absolute minimum
required to run JOBS.
JOBS-SW.HLP and JERR-SW.HLP - JOBS HELP and error message files. JOBS
will execute without these files, but there will be NO basic HELP or
error messages. The error messages contain useful information
concerning JOBS and system failures. If you don't need HELP and really
need to save disk space remove JOBS-SW.HLP but retain JERR-SW.HLP.
BACKUP.LST - This file is the result of the Log(ON) command. This file
is a continuing file. If the file does not exist, JOBS will start the
file. If the file exists, JOBS will append the information for each
operation to the end of the existing file. This is the default backup
log, you may use any filename you wish.
DIR.LST - The results of the View List Disk operation are placed in a
file. DIR.LST is the default file name, but you may use any legal
filename. If the file exists, you will be given the option of appending
the new list or replacing the file. .LST file may be use to select
files using the Select Sel-file command.
JFIND.LST - The results of the Find operation are placed in this file.
This file is replaced each time a Find is done. If you want to keep the
results, you must rename the file or move it out of the JOBS Data
Directory.
JTREE. - JOBS uses this file to store information about a disk's
directory structure. JOBS only writes this file to drives that have
been installed as using non-removable media. This file is kept in the
root (\) directory and is given a system attribute to prevent it from
being copied to another disk.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 45
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix B - Key Words
------------------------------------------------------------------------
KEY WORDS
========================================================================
Alternate screen - This is the screen that you are not currently
viewing. The screen may be either a DIRECTORY screen or a TREE screen.
BATCH screen - This screen is used to display batch operations, such as
copying or renaming a group of files. It is used by the DIRECTORY screen
Batch commands.
Branch - A branch is a portion of the directory TREE that grows from a
single parent. That parent can be any directory, including the root.
The branch is then the parent directory and all directories connected to
it on the right (as displayed on the TREE screen). If the parent is the
root then the branch is the entire directory tree.
Current directory - This is the directory that the operating system
recognizes as the logged drive and directory. In JOBS the current
directory is always the directory under the pointer at the TREE screen
or the directory being viewed at the DIRECTORY screen.
Current screen - This is the screen that you are actually using at the
moment. Although JOBS has two TREE screens and two DIRECTORY screens,
there are no screen numbers. The one that is currently displayed is the
current screen and the other is the alternate screen. Flipping between
screens exchanges the current with the alternate. For many operations
which have a source and a destination, the current screen is the source
and the alternate screen is the destination.
Data Directory - This is the directory where JOBS' keeps it files. This
directory can be the root or any sub-directory. It should be on a drive
which uses non-removable media.
Destination - This is the same as the alternate screen except it is used
in reference to operations that take place between two directories.
This is the directory that is not showing.
DIRECTORY screen - Executing the View command from one of the TREE
screens will result in a screen that provides a listing of the files in
the directory that was highlighted at the TREE screen. This screen is a
window on the total list. This screen is also used to display file and
disk statistics.
File or file name - generally refers to the filename plus filetype
combination.
Filename - refers to the characters before the period in the DOS file
naming convention. The maximum number of characters is 8.
Filespec - refers to the drive specification, the path, the filename and
filetype (if used). The following is an example of a filespec:
C:\DIR1\DIR2\FILENAME.TYP
Filetype - refers to the characters following the period in the DOS file
naming convention. The filetype is not a required part of the file
name. The filetype is often referred to as the file extension or type.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 46
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix B - Key Words
------------------------------------------------------------------------
INSTALL screen - Installation, re-installation, and change of defaults
are done from this screen. The Jobs command from the TREE screen gets
you to the INSTALL screen.
Levels - refers to the columns of directory entries on the JOBS TREE
screen. The root is in the first level, sub-directories to the root
directory are in level two, etc.
MACRO screen - JOBS macro management is done from this screen. This
screen lists the 36 keys that macros can be assigned to and the macros
defined in the current macro file.
Non-removable media - JOBS considers any drive declared as using non-
removable media as always having the media installed. JOBS will access
this type of drive more readily, knowing that it is safe to access that
device without considering the consequences of open doors, missing or
unformatted media.
Parent - refers to the directory that precedes the current directory in
a path and is one level to the left (as displayed on the TREE screen) of
the current directory.
PRINT screen - refers to the display screen for the print utility. This
screen may be accessed from either of the DIRECTORY screens using the
Batch Print commands.
Removable media - JOBS considers any drive declared as using removable
media as one whose media may be removed at any time. JOBS will treat
data taken from this type of drive as more transient, requiring more
frequent updating than non-removable media.
Source - As opposed to the destination screen, this is the current
screen. This is used in reference to operations that occur between two
directories.
SYSTEM screen - This screen is viewed when you use the System command.
The screen displays the DOS environment. Shown on the screen are the
Break and Verify statuses, the DOS system clock Date and Time. Any of
these can be changed while at this screen.
TIMECLOCK screen - The Jobs Timeclock command displays this screen. It
will show the current date and time and is used for the various timecard
functions.
TREE screen - One of the two available screens used to display a graphic
representation of a disk's directory structure or 'Tree'.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 47
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix C - Fine Tuning
------------------------------------------------------------------------
FINE TUNING
========================================================================
This is for those who want better performance; better performance not
just for JOBS but for many other programs that you will be using. Fine
tuning means that several things can to be done with the DOS and JOBS
environment to optimize efficiency. The increase in performance may
well be worth the investment in time and effort.
CONFIG.SYS
At each boot, DOS looks for an optional file called CONFIG.SYS in the
boot disk root directory . This file is used to specify such things as
what device drivers to use, the maximum number of files that may be open
at one time, and how much memory to set aside for buffers. If it is not
found, DOS will use pre-set values for the number of files and buffers.
These default values seldom provide optimum performance.
Look at your root directory. If there is a CONFIG.SYS file, type it
with JOBS' View Type command. Look for the one line entry
BUFFERS=n
The decimal number following BUFFERS= represents the number of 528 byte
pieces of RAM that the operating system will reserve to hold information
that is coming from or going to the disk. If BUFFERS= is not specified,
DOS will default to 8. Any program, including JOBS, that goes out to a
disk regularly for information will benefit significantly if more than 8
buffers are available.
We recommend setting BUFFERS=20 for the XT and BUFFERS=30 for the AT.
From experience, these seem to be good settings for JOBS, and many other
applications also benefit from this increase over the default. Beyond
these recommended values, the law of diminishing returns begins to take
effect. The computer will spend more time searching memory than it
would take to go directly to the disk. The number is a function of the
speed of your processor, the speed of your RAM and the speed of your
drive. The faster the processor and memory, the more BUFFERS. The
faster your drive, the fewer the BUFFERS.
CONFIG.SYS is a standard ascii text file. Use your editor to adjust the
buffer count. The new setting will take effect only after re-booting
your system.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 48
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix C - Fine Tuning
------------------------------------------------------------------------
PATH
The DOS PATH command provides DOS with a list of directories to search
for a given program or batch file. When asked to run a program, DOS (or
JOBS) will look for it in the current directory first. If not found, it
will then proceed from left to right through the PATH list until it
either finds the file or reaches the end of the list.
The power of this command lies in fact that you can run programs from
any sub-directory. You can also move unique applications into their own
directory and still have access to them from other directories, if their
directory is in the PATH.
With a PATH command that specifies multiple directories, some
improvement in performance will be realized if the directories are
ordered according to frequency of use, ie., the most frequently
accessed directory first.
The PATH command is essential to the operation of JOBS. If you do not
have a PATH specified, during the easy installation, JOBS will ask you
if you want to add a PATH specification to your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. If
you answer no, JOBS will put a path in the environment, but this will
only be available until you exit JOBS the first time. Minimally, the
following PATH command should be included in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
PATH=C:\
Where C is the drive with JOBS-SW.EXE in the root directory.
If you don't understand the path concept or what the AUTOEXEC.BAT file
is, please review your DOS manual. They will vastly improve the
usefulness of your system.
NON-REMOVABLE VS. REMOVABLE
The current disk/directory (CD/D) in DOS is the default drive and
directory. DOS first looks here for programs or batch files in the
absence of a path specification, drive specification or both.
The notion of CD/D becomes somewhat less apparent when using JOBS. You
may move freely from directory to directory and from disk to disk; the
CD/D is assumed from your actions and the type of media declared at
installation.
For drives which are installed as using non-removable media you may
consider the directory you are pointing to or viewing to be the current
directory; and the disk whose tree you are working with to be the
current disk.
With JOBS it's more accurate to consider the media as a mode of
operation or state of mind, rather than the actual fact.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 49
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix C - Fine Tuning
------------------------------------------------------------------------
As an example, let's assume a two drive system (drives A & C). Drive A
is installed as removable and Drive C as non-removable. If, while
viewing the directory tree for drive A, you choose to exit JOBS the CD/D
will remain set to the C drive. If you are viewing a directory from
drive C on one screen and one from drive A on the other, JOBS will not
change the CD/D when flipping between them. This prevents inadvertent
access to media that may have been removed and eliminates the overhead
of logging on to the slower media each time you wish to view its
contents.
Note: If you Call or Goto a program on drive A, JOBS will change the
CD/D to drive A before running the program.
This scenario is best suited for a system where floppy drives or tape
units are treated mostly as backup or single access media. Single access
media refers to media which is accessed to download data to the hard
disk where it will actually be used.
Whenever JOBS reads a non-removable media device to create a directory
tree and it finds more than one directory, it will save the tree
information to a file named JTREE. If JOBS accesses a disk and finds
that JTREE already exists, it will take the tree information from this
file. JOBS will only create the JTREE file on non-removable media.
The JTREE file is automatically updated whenever the directory tree is
altered using JOBS. Use the New command (@ TREE screen menu) to force
JOBS to update JTREE if the directory tree has been changed while
outside JOBS.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 50
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix D - Manual Installation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MANUAL INSTALLATION
========================================================================
Here we assume you are fully conversant with DOS and its commands. It
is also assumed that you have read through the rest of this manual an
have become somewhat familiar with JOBS.
An installation is considered successful if:
1. The environment variable PATH= has been SET and JOBS-SW.EXE is in
the PATH.
2. JOBS has been assigned a data directory and, at a minimum, the
following files are in that directory:
JOBS-SW.OV JOBS-SW.HLP JERR-SW.HLP JMAC-SW.JM
optionally copy:
JREAD-SW.ME JOBS-SW.DOC SAMPMENU.JM SMENU.JMT
3. JOBS runs.
SOME SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO ACCOMPLISH THIS
Comply with requirement #1.
Pick a directory where you wish to have JOBS keep its files (the data
directory). Copy at least the files specified in requirement #2 to this
directory.
Log into the data directory, making it the current directory.
At the DOS command line enter:
JOBS-SW /N<Enter>
JOBS should come up with a screen displaying the directory tree of the
current drive (may take a moment if its a big tree). Near the bottom
right-hand side of the screen will be the blinking words:
<J>obs <I>nstall
This signifies that JOBS is in the install mode and that you should
press <J> then <I> to access the Install screen.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 51
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix D - Manual Installation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Important things to do at the install screen:
A. Enter the Drive and Path of the selected data directory.
B. Install the drives used by your system.
C. Select the proper screen save/restore method.
Suggested things to do:
D. Select colors if using a color display.
E. Install your editor.
Any other settings may be dealt with later, as needed. Remember, you
may return to the install screen at any time to make either permanent or
temporary changes.
Save the install settings and exit the install screen. The blinking
install reminder will still be displayed. Press <Ctrl><Home> to reset
JOBS.
JOBS installation is complete and requirement #3 has been satisfied..
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 52
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix E - Command Line Options
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AT THE DOS COMMAND LINE
========================================================================
When running JOBS from the DOS command line, you may specify the drive
to be displayed first, the macro file you wish to begin with, a macro to
begin executing, and/or the amount of environment space you want JOBS to
set aside. For example:
C>JOBS-SW D: MYFILE MACRO /E:300<Enter>
With the command line shown above, JOBS would begin on drive D:, using
the macro file 'MFILE.JM'. 300 extra bytes of environment space would
be set aside and JOBS would immediately begin executing the macro named
'MACRO'. All of these are optional and may be supplied in any order,
with one exception. If a macro name is specified, it must be preceded
by the name of the macro file.
/N on the command line forces JOBS into installation mode. In this
mode, JOBS resets it's installation settings to the distribution
defaults and widens it's search for needed files.
/P will permanently load this copy of JOBS. JOBS functions very well as
a shell. If it is installed to execute other programs using Small
calls, it will actually use less memory than COMMAND.COM to load and run
other programs. If you use this option, load all of your RAM resident
programs first. /P is also very handy when setting up an environment
for others to use; preventing them from inadvertently exiting JOBS.
Examples:
C>JOBS-SW E:<Enter> Run JOBS and come up displaying the
directory tree on drive E:
C>JOBS-SW MYFILE<Enter> Run JOBS, display the tree for the
current drive and load the macro file
named MYFILE.JM.
C>JOBS-SW C: /E:500<Enter> Come up displaying the tree on drive C:
and set aside 500 extra bytes for
environment storage.
C>JOBS-SW /P /E:300<Enter> Load JOBS as a permanent shell and allot
300 extra bytes of environment storage.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 53
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix F - Error messages
------------------------------------------------------------------------
ERROR MESSAGES
========================================================================
JOBS has four types of error messages. In order of severity they are:
1. One or two line pop-up warning messages. Warning messages are
informative messages that usually let the user try again after
reading the message.
2. One or two line pop-up fatal error messages. Fatal error messages
cause the current process to be abandoned after the user has read
the error message.
3. Full screen, HELP style error messages. HELP style error messages
deal mostly with DOS errors and are more informative. After the
user exits the HELP screen, JOBS resets itself or in extreme cases
exits to DOS.
4. Critical DOS errors are a special type of DOS error, usually
indicating that something completely failed to work as it was
supposed to. Some errors of this type are automatically processed
by JOBS, ie., Disk not ready or Printer not ready.
Others are not so easy to recognize, and are often of a more serious
nature. The critical error codes provided by DOS are occasionally
accurate, often cryptic or ambiguous, and sometimes meaningless. When
it is unclear what the problem is, JOBS will display the message:
CRITICAL DOS ERROR #n on Drive A: ..Re-start JOBS? (Y/N) <N>
where n is the error code provided by DOS. The DOS literature provides
the following information about these codes.
Code Meaning
---- ----------------------------------
3 Unknown command
4 CRC error in data
5 Bad drive request structure length
6 Seek error
7 Unknown media type
8 Sector not found
10 Write fault
11 Read fault
12 General failure
In addition to these, we have received reports of other error codes that
are not documented in the DOS literature.
Notice that, for the most part, these messages are reporting serious
disk errors. For this reason, JOBS will not access your disks any
further. Instead, you are asked to decide what to do next; continue
with JOBS or exit to DOS. If you answer <Y>es at the critical error
prompt, JOBS will reset itself and continue on as if it was being run
for the first time. Answer <N>o to exit JOBS and return to DOS.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 54
JOBS-SW 3.10s Appendix F - Error messages
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The most common error of this type is General failure (#12) and most
often occurs when you access a disk that has not been formatted. In
fact this is a quick and painless way to find out if a disk has been
formatted.
If the error occurred while accessing the drive that JOBS is installed
on, answer <N>o to this prompt (exit to DOS). Further use of this
drive, without determining what the problem is, may be risky.
Warning messages are suppressed if the screen is turned off by a macro.
Fatal, HELP style and critical error messages may not be suppressed.
Error messages cause running macros to be discontinued; warning messages
do not.
(C) Copyright RCT Design, 1987 Page - 55
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