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PC-SIG Diskette Library (Disk #2020)
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Information about “FLODRAW DISK 3 OF 3 (912 AND 913 ALSO)”
FLODRAW is a graphics editor that produces black and white full-page
diagrams. It is designed to handle symbols quickly and easily and is
ideal for documentation such as flowcharts, organization charts, system
diagrams and other symbol-oriented materials. It combines text and
graphics and is equipped with a basic graphics editor for lines and
circles, plus pixel editing.
FLODRAW has symbol libraries for flowcharts, HIPO charts, and electric
diagrams. Design your own symbols, save them, and combine them into new
libraries, or add them to an existing library.
FILE2020.TXT
Disk No: 2020
Disk Title: FloDraw disk 3 of 3 (912 and 913 also)
PC-SIG Version: S2.2
Program Title: FloDraw
Author Version: 2.11A
Author Registration: $25.00
Special Requirements: 320K RAM, CGA, and a printer.
FLODRAW is a graphics editor that produces black and white full-page
diagrams. It is designed to handle symbols quickly and easily and is
ideal for documentation such as flowcharts, organization charts, system
diagrams and other symbols-oriented materials. It combines text and
graphics and is equipped with a basic graphics editor for lines and
circles, plus pixel editing.
FLODRAW has symbol libraries for flowcharts, HIPO charts, and electric
diagrams. Design your own symbols, save them, and combine them into new
libraries, or add them to an existing library.
PC-SIG
1030D East Duane Avenue
Sunnyvale Ca. 94086
(408) 730-9291
(c) Copyright 1989 PC-SIG, Inc.
FLODRAW.DOC
F L O D R A W 2
User Manual
George Freund
P. O. Box 203
Mentor, OH 44061
i
Copyright Notice
Copyright (c) 1987-1988 by George Freund. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer
The author is not responsible for damages resulting from the use
of this program.
Trademarks
Hewlett Packard LaserJet Plus, Hewlett Packard LaserJet Series II
are trademarks of Hewlett Packard.
IBM Personal Computer, IBM PC/XT, IBM PS/2, IBM PC-DOS, IBM
Proprinter are trademarks of the International Business Machines
Corporation.
ASP Membership
FLODRAW is produced by a member of the Association of Shareware
Professionals (ASP). ASP wants to make sure that the shareware
principle works for you. If you are unable to resolve a
shareware-related problem with an ASP member by contacting the
member directly, ASP may be able to help. The ASP Ombudsman can
help you resolve a dispute or problem with an ASP member, but
does not provide technical support for member's products. Please
write to the ASP Ombudsman at P.O. Box 5786, Bellevue, WA 98006
or send a Compuserve message via easyplex to ASP Ombudsman
70007,3536
ii
Table of Contents
Chapter 1. Introduction to FLODRAW 1.1
Introducing FLODRAW 1.1
System Requirements 1.2
Files Included with FLODRAW 1.3
Chapter 2. Getting Started 2.1
Installation 2.1
DEMO - a FLODRAW Tutorial 2.3
Drawing Your First Flowchart with DEMOFLOW 2.3
Examples of FLODRAW Diagrams 2.4
Examples of FLODRAW Libraries 2.4
Help Screens 2.5
Starting the Program 2.5
Customizing FLODRAW.OPT 2.6
FLODRAW File Naming Conventions 2.6
Backup Your Disks 2.7
Chapter 3. Entry Menu 3.1
Entry Screen 3.1
Load New File [F1] 3.1
Preview Diagram [F2] 3.1
Save File with Same Name [F3] 3.2
Save File with New Name [F4] 3.3
Print Current File [F6] 3.3
Print Flagged Files [F7] 3.3
Setup Options [F8] 3.4
Load New Symbol Library [F9] 3.6
Change Drive/Directory [F10] 3.6
Switch Files [Alt-F1] 3.6
Erase a Page File [Alt-E] 3.7
Help Screen [Alt-H] 3.7
Exit to DOS [ESC] 3.7
iii
Chapter 4. TEXT Mode Editing 4.1
The Edit Screen 4.1
Ruler Lines 4.1
Menu Lines 4.1
Error Line 4.1
ESC Key 4.1
Text Mode Editing 4.1
Cursor 4.1
Cursor Movement 4.1
Drawing with the Cursor 4.2
Using the Tab Keys 4.2
Moving Around the Diagram 4.2
Functions Available in TEXT Mode 4.2
Switching to DRAW Mode [F1] 4.3
Preview Diagram [F2] 4.3
Save Function [F3] 4.3
Save Symbol 4.3
Save File 4.3
Font Menu [F4] 4.4
Font Mode 4.4
Font TEXT Mode 4.4
Font DRAW Mode 4.4
Font CHAR Mode 4.4
Auto Functions [F5] 4.5
Line Functions [F6] 4.5
Arrowheads 4.5
Line 4.5
Block Functions [F7] 4.5
Mirror 4.5
Rotate 4.5
Move 4.6
Copy 4.6
Delete 4.6
Merge File [F8] 4.6
Merge Upper Left Corner 4.6
Merge Center 4.6
UNDO [F9] 4.7
Symbol Library [F10] 4.7
Symbols 4.7
Undo 4.7
More Symbols 4.8
Switch Files [Alt-F1] 4.8
Multiple Page Diagram Key Commands 4.8
Load Next Page 4.8
Load Previous Page 4.8
Insert Next Page 4.9
HELP [Alt-H] 4.9
iv
Chapter 5. DRAW Mode Editing 5.1
Cursor 5.1
Cursor Movement 5.1
Drawing with the Cursor 5.1
Functions Available in DRAW Mode 5.1
Switch to TEXT Mode [F1] 5.1
Preview Diagram [F2] 5.1
Save Function [F3] 5.1
Save File 5.1
Arrowhead Function [F4] 5.2
Circle Function [F5] 5.2
Line Function [F6] 5.3
Block Functions [F7] 5.4
Move 5.4
Copy 5.4
Delete 5.4
UNDO [F9] 5.4
HELP [Alt-H] 5.5
Chapter 6. Using FLODRAW 6.1
Using Tab Keys 6.1
Sketch Your Diagrams First 6.2
Starting Your Diagram with a Template 6.2
Drawing Organization Charts 6.3
Printing Diagrams 6.4
Printer Support 6.4
Chapter 7. Symbol Libraries 7.1
What are Symbols and Symbol Libraries? 7.1
Creating Symbols 7.1
Editing Symbols 7.2
Creating Libraries 7.3
Maintaining Libraries 7.4
Appendix A. Error Messages A.1
Appendix B. User Supported Software B.1
Appendix C. Registration Form C.1
Chapter 1. Introduction to FLODRAW 1.1
Introducing FLODRAW
FLODRAW is a flowchart drawing program that prints full page black and
white diagrams. It will help you draw flowcharts, system diagrams,
electrical diagrams, and any other type of diagram that has repeated
symbols.
FLODRAW is easy to learn. A menu line prompts you at every screen.
And help screens are just a key press away.
FLODRAW has a TEXT mode that makes drawing lines and symbols as easy as
entering text. FLODRAW will generate lines or arrows between symbols
to help you draw diagrams like flowcharts. FLODRAW also has a DRAW
mode for drawing circles and lines from point to point. And in DRAW
mode you can edit any dot on the diagram.
FLODRAW comes with symbol libraries for flowcharts, HIPO charts, and
electric diagrams. You can design your own symbols, save them, and
combine them into new libraries, or add them to existing libraries.
FLODRAW documents can be saved, printed, and edited again. All FLODRAW
document files are compressed to take up a minimum amount of space on
your disk. FLODRAW supports the following three formats for printing
documents.
1. Portrait 8.5 x 11 inches
2. Landscape 11 x 8.5 inches (printed sideways on 8.5 x 11)
3. Large landscape 16 x 11 inches (printed on two 8.5 x 11)
Portrait and landscape are terms that refer to how a rectangular page
is oriented. Portraits are upright. Landscapes are sideways.
Introduction to FLODRAW 1.2
System Requirements
FLODRAW requires:
- An IBM Personal Computer, PC-XT, PC-AT, PS/2 or close
compatible. Some "compatible" PC's may not be compatible
enough to run FLODRAW.
- 384k of memory.
- A color graphics adapter with either a color or black and
white monitor. FLODRAW does not support the EGA, although
FLODRAW will run on an EGA in CGA mode. FLODRAW may work
with a Hercules board depending on the software you use to
emulate a CGA.
- Any version of IBM PC-DOS from 2.0 through 3.3 or a
compatible DOS.
- FLODRAW has printer drivers to support the following
printers.
EPSON MX, FX, and LQ
IBM Proprinter
HP LaserJet Plus, HP LaserJet II
Toshiba P321, P341, and P351
Gemini Star 10-X
Introduction to FLODRAW 1.3
Files Included in the FLODRAW System
FLODRAW 2 is distributed with one program disk that contains all the
files you need to work with FLODRAW. These files are described below
by category.
Text Files (Read with DOS TYPE Command)
READ_ME is an introduction to FLODRAW and contains
instructions for running the tutorials.
REGISTER.FRM is the registration form for FLODRAW.
Executable Files
FLODRAW.EXE is the FLODRAW program.
LIBRARY.BAT is the batch file used to create and
maintain FLODRAW libraries.
REGISTER.BAT is the batch file used to print the
registration form.
System Files (Required by FLODRAW.EXE)
FLODRAW.OPT is the file of user selected options such as
printer type, tab locations, and default font.
FLODRAW.LIB is the default FLODRAW symbol library. It is
distributed as a flowchart library.
FLODRAW.PRT is a file of diagram file names to be printed.
This file is not included with the system, but
is generated by FLODRAW and used by the "print
flagged files" option on the Entry menu.
Diagram Files (Can Be Read by FLODRAW.EXE)
DEMO is the diagram file used as a FLODRAW tutorial.
DEMOFLOW & are the diagram files used as a tutorial for
DEMOFLOW.01 drawing a flowchart.
thru
DEMOFLOW.06
SAMPLE.ELC is a sample electrical diagram.
SAMPLE.FLO is a sample flowchart.
Symbol Libraries (Can Be Loaded as Libraries by FLODRAW.EXE)
ELECTRIC.LIB is a library of electrical symbols.
FLOCHART.LIB is a library of flowchart symbols. This is the
same library as FLODRAW.LIB, except this library
does not contain the flowchart heading symbol.
You may want to design your own heading symbol
and add it to this library.
HIPO.LIB is a library of HIPO symbols.
MISC.LIB is a library of miscellaneous symbols.
Chapter 2. Getting Started 2.1
Installation
FLODRAW is distributed with all files on one FLODRAW program disk. The
following instructions will tell you how to install FLODRAW on your
floppy disk or hard disk system. Select the instructions that apply to
your system.
Installing FLODRAW on a 2 Drive Floppy Disk System
We'll copy the files we need onto two working disks. We'll call one
disk the program disk and the other disk the data disk. The program
disk will contain the FLODRAW program, system files, and libraries.
The data disk will contain your diagrams. Use the following procedure
to copy the files.
1. First format two disks. If you have two formatted disks, or
you know how to format a disk, you can skip to part 2 of this
procedure. Boot up your system, then make sure drive A is the
default drive. The DOS prompt should be "A>". Put your DOS system
disk in drive A and a blank disk in drive B. Enter the following
command to format the blank disk in drive B.
FORMAT B:
Remove the formatted disk from drive B, and place a second blank
disk in drive B. Format the second disk the same way. After the
second disk has been formatted, remove the DOS system disk from
drive A.
2. Copy the files from the FLODRAW program disk to the first
formatted disk. To do this, put the FLODRAW program disk in Drive
A and your formatted disk in drive B. Enter the following command
at the DOS prompt to make your copy of the program disk.
COPY A:*.* B:
Remove your copy of the program disk from drive B. Label your
program disk for use as a working disk. Remove the FLODRAW
program disk from drive A, and store it in a safe place as a
backup.
3. The data disk will contain your diagrams. Put your program
disk in drive A and put the second formatted disk in drive B. Use
the following commands to copy the sample diagram files to your
data disk.
COPY A:SAMPLE.* B:
Remove your program disk from drive A and your data disk from
drive B. Label your data disk for use as a working disk. Since
you've copied the sample files from your program disk to the data
disk, you can delete the sample files on your program disk to free
up space for additional library files.
Getting Started 2.2
This completes the installation on a 2 drive floppy disk system.
Installing FLODRAW on a Hard Disk System
We'll copy the files we need from the program disk to a subdirectory on
the hard disk.
1. After booting up your system, make sure your default drive is
the hard disk. If your hard disk is on drive C, your DOS prompt
will look like "C>".
2. Create a new directory for your FLODRAW files. If you already
have a subdirectory for FLODRAW, you can skip to step 3. You can
use the following procedure to create a subdirectory called FLO.
Enter these commands at the DOS prompt.
CD\ to make sure you're at the root directory
MD\FLO to make a subdirectory called FLO
3. Copy the files on the FLODRAW program disk into the
subdirectory FLO. Use the following procedure. Put the FLODRAW
program disk in drive A and enter these commands at the DOS
prompt.
CD\FLO to change current directory to FLO
COPY A:*.* to copy the FLODRAW files on the program
disk to the current directory
Remove the FLODRAW program disk from drive A and store it as a
backup.
4. Establish a default directory location for the FLODRAW option
file and the FLODRAW libraries. This step is optional, but it
makes FLODRAW much easier to use on a hard disk. It means that no
matter which directory you are in, FLODRAW will be able to find
the option file and libraries in the default directory.
To establish a default directory location, add a SET command to
your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. The set command must have the following
format.
SET FLOPT=directory path
For example, say you want to keep the FLODRAW option file and
libraries in a directory called FLO on your hard disk C. Let's say
FLO is an entry in your root directory, so its path looks like
C:\FLO
To establish the directory FLO as the default directory for
FLODRAW, you would add the following command to your AUTOEXEC.BAT
file.
SET FLOPT=C:\FLO
Getting Started 2.3
The next time you boot your computer, if FLODRAW can't find the
option file or library file in the current directory, it will look
for those files in the default directory.
This completes the installation on a hard disk.
DEMO - a FLODRAW tutorial
The FLODRAW tutorial is included on the program disk to help you become
familiar with the FLODRAW program. The tutorial is called DEMO and was
designed to introduce you to the important features of FLODRAW in 15
minutes. Start the DEMO with the following files on the same disk.
These files should be on your program disk.
FLODRAW.EXE
FLODRAW.LIB
FLODRAW.OPT
DEMO
Now follow these instructions to take the DEMO tutorial.
On floppy disk systems - Let the default drive be A. Put the
program disk in drive A. Then continue by typing the command
below.
On hard disk systems - Change to the FLO subdirectory.
Type FLODRAW DEMO
Your computer will load FLODRAW into memory. FLODRAW will read
the option and symbol files, and then read the DEMO file. FLODRAW
will display the DEMO file on the edit screen. Now, just follow
the instructions that appear on the screen.
Drawing Your First Flowchart with DEMOFLOW
After the DEMO tutorial, you're ready to start on your own. If you're
going to use FLODRAW to draw flowcharts, use the tutorial DEMOFLOW to
get started. This 5 minute tutorial helps you draw a simple flowchart.
The DEMOFLOW files should be on your program disk. Follow these
instructions to take the DEMOFLOW tutorial.
On floppy disk systems - Let the default drive be A. Put the
program disk in drive A. Then continue by typing the command
below.
On hard disk systems - Change to the FLO subdirectory.
Type FLODRAW DEMOFLOW
Your computer will load FLODRAW into memory. FLODRAW will read
Getting Started 2.4
the option and symbol files, and then read the DEMOFLOW file.
FLODRAW will display the DEMOFLOW file on the edit screen. Now,
just follow the instructions that appear on the screen.
Examples of FLODRAW Diagrams
The program disk contains a number of files you can read and edit with
FLODRAW. The files beginning with SAMPLE are examples of diagrams
created with FLODRAW. Use the following procedure to load a SAMPLE
diagram file.
1. Put the FLODRAW program disk in drive A.
2. Type "FLODRAW filename" to load the file into FLODRAW. For
example, to read the sample flowchart, type
FLODRAW SAMPLE.FLO
On a 2 floppy system, if you installed the sample files on your
data disk, you would type
FLODRAW B:SAMPLE.FLO
Another way to load a file is to use the "Load new file" function
on the entry menu. Put the program disk in drive A and at the DOS
prompt, enter
FLODRAW
When the entry menu appears, select F1, the "Load new file"
function. When prompted for a file name, move the directory
bounce bar to SAMPLE.FLO and press Enter. FLODRAW will read your
file into memory and then display the file on the edit screen.
Examples of FLODRAW Libraries
All the files ending in .LIB are library files. The library files
contain the symbols you use while editing your diagrams. The program
disk contains the libraries. Use the following procedure to try a new
library.
1. Put the FLODRAW program disk in drive A.
2. Put your data disk in drive B.
3. Type FLODRAW B:filename to load FLODRAW. You can use one of the
sample files or start a new diagram.
4. After your diagram has been loaded, press ESC to return to the
entry screen.
5. Press F9 on the entry screen to get the "Load New Library"
menu.
Getting Started 2.5
6. FLODRAW will list the libraries in the current directory in the
directory display on the right side of your screen. Move the
bounce bar to the library you want to load and press Enter.
If you have a hard disk and have established a default directory
for FLODRAW, FLODRAW will look in the default directory if it
can't find any library files in the current directory.
7. FLODRAW will load the new library and return you to the entry
screen. Now press F1 to edit your diagram.
8. Press F10 to try out the new symbols.
HELP Screens
While you're still getting familiar with FLODRAW, you can call up a
HELP screen for help with most functions in the program. A help screen
of program keys is available from the TEXT or DRAW mode edit screens.
Press Alt-H to call the HELP screen.
The help screens are context sensitive. That is, you'll get a help
screen designed to help you on the function you're using. You can also
transfer from the help screen to the help menu by pressing Alt-H from
the help screen. When you're finished with the help screen, press any
key to return to the program.
Starting the Program
Let's assume that you have already booted your computer and that you
have already installed FLODRAW on your system.
If you have a floppy disk system, put the program disk in drive A.
If you have a hard disk system, change the default directory to your
FLODRAW directory.
At the DOS prompt, enter the command,
FLODRAW
When FLODRAW starts, it will look for FLODRAW.LIB and FLODRAW.OPT in
the current directory. After the program has been loaded into memory
it will read the two files FLODRAW.LIB and FLODRAW.OPT. After the
files have been read into memory, FLODRAW.LIB and FLODRAW.OPT are no
longer needed.
When the entry menu appears, you can use the "Load new file" function
to load your diagram. If you want to load an existing file, use the
cursor keys to move the directory bounce bar to your file and press
Enter. If you want to load a new file, just enter the name of your
file at the cursor location and press Enter.
You can bypass the entry menu if you enter the diagram name following
Getting Started 2.6
FLODRAW on the DOS command line. Prefix the drive letter if your
diagram is not in the default drive. For example, let's say you want
to create a diagram called MY_CHART.01. And you want to keep the
diagram on the data disk in drive B. You would enter the following
command.
FLODRAW B:MY_CHART.01
Since this is a new diagram, FLODRAW will prompt you for the page
format before taking you to the edit screen. After you create the
diagram, save it, and exit FLODRAW, you can use the same command when
you want to edit it again.
Customizing FLODRAW.OPT
FLODRAW.OPT is a file that FLODRAW loads from the current directory
when you start it. FLODRAW uses this file to set the default options.
Before you begin using FLODRAW to create diagrams, use the setup option
screen to customize the setup option file for your own use. To do
this start FLODRAW (just enter the command FLODRAW). When the entry
menu appears, press F8 to select the setup option screen.
Right now, just set the printer model (F2), font (F6), and color (F8
and F9) options. When you're more familiar with the program, you may
want to try changing some of the other options. After you've selected
your printer model, font, and color, press F10 to save the option file.
FLODRAW will load your saved options every time you use the program.
FLODRAW is distributed with the following options set. For more
information about these options, see Setup Options in the Entry Menu
chapter.
Tabs - Horizontal and vertical tabs are set for use with
the symbols in FLOCHART.LIB.
Printer - Printer driver is for Epson FX.
Lines - Lines are continuous (rather than dashed).
Arrow - When you use the line option in TEXT mode, you'll
get an arrowhead at one end of the line.
Font - The default font is shown on FONT option line.
Arrowhead - The default arrowhead is shown on the ARROWHEAD
option line. This size arrowhead works nicely
with the symbols in FLOCHART.LIB.
Print flag - The print flag is manual rather than automatic.
Use manual until you've verified that FLODRAW
will print several diagrams in succession on
your printer without skipping or adding lines to
the page.
Text colors- set for black and white.
Edit colors- set for black and white.
FLODRAW File Naming Conventions
FLODRAW uses the following naming conventions for its files.
Getting Started 2.7
FLODRAW System Files.
All FLODRAW system files have the base name of
FLODRAW. For example, FLODRAW.LIB is the default
library name.
Diagrams.
For single page diagrams, you can use any valid DOS
extension. Multiple page diagrams must have an
extension of a two character page number 01, 02, ...
up to 99. This is necessary if you want to use the
features available for processing multiple page
diagrams.
Library files.
FLODRAW requires library files to have a file extension
of LIB.
Symbol files.
The batch file LIBRARY.BAT requires that symbol files
have an extension of SYM.
Backup Your Disks
Set up a schedule to back up your data disks on a regular basis to
protect yourself against a disk failure. If you keep your data on
floppy disks, your DOS reference manual will tell you how to use the
DISKCOPY command. If you keep your data on a hard disk, use the BACKUP
command or any of the commercially available backup packages.
Chapter 3. Entry Menu 3.1
Entry Menu
The entry menu is the first screen you see after the title screen. The
entry menu provides additional functions that are not available during
editing. This screen is divided into four sections described below.
The Menu
The menu is divided into file functions and system functions.
File functions are performed on the file that you are currently
editing. System functions pertain to other services not connected
with the file you are editing.
The Current File.
This section tells the current drive, path, file loaded, and
alternate file loaded if there is one. If no file has been loaded,
the message "No file loaded" will appear. When you are working
with a portrait format diagram, you can load a second or alternate
portrait diagram and switch back and forth between them on this
screen or the edit screen using Alt-F1.
Error Line.
The error line is the line below the current file box. The
program will report errors on this line. For example, if you
press a key that is not available on the entry menu, you will get
the message, "Try another key" on the error line.
Directory Display.
The right side of the entry menu displays the files in the current
directory in alphabetic sequence. You can browse the list of
files using the PgUp and PgDn keys. Subdirectories, executable
files, and FLODRAW system files are not displayed in this
directory. If you are using the automatic print feature, the
directory display will show a 'P' after every file that will print
when you use F7 on the entry menu.
You can select he following functions from the entry menu.
Load New File [F1]
Use this function to load a new diagram. If you are already editing a
diagram, you will overlay it when you load a new diagram. If a diagram
is already loaded and you haven't saved it, you will get the "Are you
sure?" message to give you a chance to use the "Save" function before
you load a new file.
The "Load New File" function will prompt you for the file name to load.
If the file is in the directory, you can select it by moving the
highlighted bounce bar on the directory display to your file and then
Entry Menu 3.2
pressing Enter. If the file is a new file, just key the name at the
cursor location and press Enter.
If you are creating a file that doesn't exist on the directory, or if
you just prefer to key the name of the file, then enter the name of the
file at the cursor location. You may enter any valid DOS file name.
When you enter the file name, you can also enter the drive id (for
example, B:) if the file is not on the default drive. If the file does
not exist, the program will prompt you for the page format before
taking you to the edit screen.
Three page formats are available. The portrait format is 8.5" X 11". If
you use this format, you can load a second portrait format diagram and
switch back and forth between them on the edit screen.
The landscape format is also 8.5 X 11, but is printed sideways. The
landscape format does not print as nicely as the portrait format on dot
matrix printers. This is because the line spacing has been reduced in
an attempt to retain the same aspect ratio for graphic symbols as in
the portrait format. Unfortunately, this also causes a problem in
print clarity when graphics symbols or characters cross a character
boundary.
You can avoid print clarity problems on dot matrix printers in
landscape format, if you follow this rule: Avoid using the font menu
in FONT DRAW mode.
When you select the landscape format, FLODRAW will override your option
font with a slightly narrower font that prints much nicer in landscape
format. If you override this font, some of your characters will
overlap when printed. Also, using the font menu in draw mode may place
the characters off their normal line position, so that a character may
need two lines to print. Because the line spacing has been reduced,
this can cause some characters to print distorted.
The large landscape format is 16 X 11, but is printed on two 8.5 X 11
pages that can be connected side by side after printing. The large
landscape format does not have the problem with print clarity since it
is printed as a double portrait.
Preview Diagram [F2]
Use this function to see a bird's eye view of the entire diagram. A
window frame inside the preview screen shows you which part of the
diagram appears on the edit screen. You can use the cursor keys to
move the window frame around the diagram. Exit the preview screen by
pressing ESC. The edit screen will reflect the position of the window
frame on the preview screen. If you have two portrait format diagrams
loaded, you can switch the window frame to the other diagram by
pressing Alt-F1.
Save File with Same Name [F3]
Use this function to save the current diagram with it's original name.
This is the most common way to save your work before quitting FLODRAW.
Entry Menu 3.3
Save File with New Name [F4]
Use this function when you want to create another version of the file
you are editing. The program will prompt you for the new file name.
You can use any valid DOS file name. And you can prefix it with the
drive-id.
Print Current File [F6]
Use this function to print the current diagram. This function will
present a print menu with the following options.
Change printer [F5]
Change printer model by pressing F5. FLODRAW is set to default to
an EPSON model FX printer in a single strike mode. You can use
the option menu to change the default. Refer to the section on
Setup Options.
Start printing [F6]
After you check that the printer is on, and the paper is lined up
correctly, press F6 to start printing.
Pause printing [ESC]
At anytime during printing, you can press ESC to have FLODRAW
pause the print function. FLODRAW will stop sending print data to
the printer and ask you if you want to stop printing. If you
answer "N", FLODRAW will continue printing where it left off. If
you answer "Y", FLODRAW will send a form feed to the printer and
exit from the print function.
Print Flagged Files in Directory [F7]
Use this function to flag the diagrams in the directory for printing,
or to print all files in the current directory that have been flagged.
This function is useful when you have several diagrams to edit and
print. When you save a diagram, the print flag is turned on (but only
if the setup option for print flag is set to automatic - see the next
function, Setup Options).
When all diagrams have been edited, use this function to print them.
The program will search the current directory and print every diagram
that has the print flag turned on. After printing each diagram, the
program turns the flag off. This function will present a print menu
with the following options.
Toggle print flag on directory [F1]
Pressing F1 will set up a bounce bar on the directory display.
Entry Menu 3.4
Use the cursor keys to position the bounce bar on the file you
want to flag, and press enter. If the flag is off, it will turn
on. If the flag is on, it will turn off. When you have flagged
all the files you want to print, press ESC to return to the print
menu. The flag is the letter 'P' following the filename.
Change printer [F5]
Change printer model by pressing F5. FLODRAW is set to default to
an EPSON model FX printer in a single strike mode. You can use
the option menu to change the default. Refer to the section on
Setup Options.
Start printing [F6]
Pressing F6 will start the search for files to print. If you
are editing a file, it will be erased during the print process.
FLODRAW will warn you before it erases your file.
Pause printing [ESC]
At anytime during printing, you can press ESC to have FLODRAW
pause the print function. FLODRAW will stop sending print data to
the printer and ask you if you want to stop printing. If you
answer "N", FLODRAW will continue printing where it left off. If
you answer "Y", FLODRAW will send a form feed to the printer and
exit from the print function.
Setup Options [F8]
Use this menu to change the following default options set for the
program. When you set the options in this menu, they are used by the
program until you reset them or leave the program. If you save the
options with F10, the saved options will be loaded as the default
options the next time you load the program.
Set tabs on ruler lines [F1]
This option allows you to change the position of the horizontal
and vertical tabs on the editing ruler lines. Pressing F1 to
change the position of the horizontal tabs will present you with
an edit screen. You can use all the cursor commands to move the
cursor to a tab location. Press F1 to put a tab at that
horizontal location. Press F2 to clear the tab. Vertical tabs
work the same way. Press ESC to exit.
Select lines with/without arrowheads [F2]
This option determines whether arrowheads are placed at the end of
lines when using the F6 line menu in TEXT mode. Select arrowheads
with F1, no arrowheads with F2. This option can be overridden
with the line menu in TEXT mode [F6].
Entry Menu 3.5
Select arrowhead [F3]
This option selects the size and shape of arrowheads drawn on your
diagrams. The current arrowhead selection is shown at the top of
the menu. Press the function key by the arrowhead you want to use.
Select default font [F4]
This option selects which of the six standard size fonts you
normally want to use when entering text. The current font
selection is shown at the top of the menu. Press the function key
by the font you want to use to change the selection. Although the
fonts F4 and F6 look the same, F6 is slightly narrower. When
you're using the small landscape format diagram, FLODRAW will
override your default font and automatically select the F6 font.
Your default font will return when you load another diagram.
Select printer [F5]
This option selects the default printer model. The current printer
is shown at the top of the menu. Press the letter key by the
printer you want to use to change the selection.
Select auto or manual printing [F6]
This option selects manual or automatic update of the print flag
on the directory display. If you select automatic, the print flag
will be turned on whenever you save your diagram. You can then
use the "Print Flagged Files" function on the Entry menu to print
all the files you edited and saved at one time.
Define paths for changing directory [F7]
You can define paths of directories where you keep your FLODRAW
diagrams. Then you can change directories easily using the Change
Directories function on the Entry menu.
Select colors for Entry Menu Screen [F8]
You can select the colors used in the Entry Menu screen. Select
black and white by pressing "M", or the default color selection by
pressing "C". To change colors on the screen, press the function
key next to the description of the area you want to change. The
color bar at the bottom of the menu shows the colors you will
toggle through as you continue to press the function key.
Select colors for Edit Screen [F9]
You can select the colors used in the Edit screen. Press the
function key corresponding to the part of the screen you want to
change. For example, if you want to change the color of the
cursor, press F3 to cycle through the colors for the cursor.
There are only 4 colors available on the edit screen.
Entry Menu 3.6
Save setup options on FLODRAW.OPT [F10]
Press F10 to save your option selections on the file FLODRAW.OPT.
FLODRAW will look for this file in the current directory when you
start FLODRAW and use your saved options to set the defaults. If
it can't find the option file in the current directory, it will
check if you set up a default directory.
Load New Symbol Library [F9]
Use this function to load another library of symbols. The program will
prompt you for the name of the symbol library. Enter the name without
the .LIB extension. The symbol library must be on the default drive.
Change Drive/Directory [F10]
This function has the following options.
Change drive [F1]
The program will prompt you for the drive-id letter. The
directory display will show the files in the current directory.
Change directory [F2]
This option lets you change the current directory. Enter the
directory path at the cursor. The current directory path will
display at the bottom of the screen and the directory display will
show the files in the directory.
Define a new path [F3]
You can save paths of often used directories. First select the
function key you want to assign to the path. You can select any
key from F5 to F9 as long as it hasn't already been assigned.
Then enter the directory path. FLODRAW will display the directory
files in the directory display until you exit this function.
Press F10 to save this path definition.
Delete a defined path [F4]
You can free up a function key for a defined path so you can
assign it to another path. Just select the function key with the
path definition you no longer need.
Switch Files [Alt-F1]
Use this function to switch to an alternate buffer when you have a
portrait format diagram loaded. You must have at least one portrait
format diagram loaded to use this function. If you load a portrait
format file, and then press Alt-F1, you will switch to the alternate
Entry Menu 3.7
buffer. You can then load another portrait format diagram using the
load new file option.
You can also transfer to the edit screen and use the alternate buffer
as a scratch pad.
Erase a Page File [Alt-E]
This function is available to allow you to erase a page file from a
multiple page diagram. This function physically erases the page that
you select, and renumbers the extensions of any other files with the
same filename so that the page numbers are sequential.
After you select this function, you select the file you want to erase.
You can only erase files that have an extension of "01" to "99".
FLODRAW will then prompt you with a schematic of the file to be erased
and any files to be renumbered. You can proceed with erasing the file
by answering "Y" to the prompt.
Help Screen [Alt-H]
HELP screens are available with most functions. Just press Alt-H.
Exit to DOS [X]
This function will return the message "Are you sure?", if you haven't
saved your work. If you reply "Y" to the "Are you sure?" message, the
program will exit to DOS, and you will lose any changes you made since
the last save. If you reply "N", the program will return you to the
entry menu, and you can use the "Save" function to save your work.
If your work has been saved, the program will exit to DOS immediately.
Return to Edit [ESC]
Use this function to return to the edit screen. You can only use this
function if a file has been loaded. This is the same key that takes
you from the edit screen to the entry menu, so you can switch between
them easily.
Chapter 4. Text Mode Editing Screen 4.1
The Edit Screen
The editing screen provides a window to an area in your diagram. While
you are in the window, you can draw dots, lines and circles, symbols,
and write text. There are two modes of editing available, TEXT mode,
and DRAW mode, and each mode has unique capabilities.
The TEXT mode edit screen lets you work with character areas. The
character area is the area defined by the TEXT mode cursor. In addition
to writing text, you can draw symbols from the symbol library. And you
can draw lines with the cursor keys. But all TEXT mode functions work
with nothing smaller than the size of the TEXT mode cursor.
The DRAW mode edit screen lets you work with pixels. Each pixel is one
dot on the edit screen. There is a DRAW function for drawing lines and
a DRAW function for drawing circles. Or you can use the Shift and
cursor keys to draw free-hand.
The layout of the editing screen is the same for both TEXT and DRAW
modes. Here is a description of the editing screen.
Ruler Lines
These are the measuring lines at the bottom and right hand side of
the screen. They measure the text character rows and columns that
are available on the diagram. Tabs are marked on these lines as
the letter "t".
Menu Lines
Two menu lines are at the bottom of the screen. The menu lines
define what functions are available at any time. The menu lines
will change depending on the functions you select.
Error line
When FLODRAW needs to tell you about a problem, it writes a
message on the error line. The error line will overlay the
horizontal ruler line. The next time you press a key, the ruler
line will return.
ESC key
The ESC key always takes you back to the previous menu. By
pressing the ESC key several times, you will work your way back to
either the edit screen or the entry menu depending on where you
started. At this point, pressing the ESC key again will flip you
back and forth between the edit screen and the entry menu.
TEXT Mode Editing 4.2
TEXT Mode Editing
Now, let's look at the features of the TEXT mode edit screen.
Cursor
The TEXT mode cursor is a little box about the size of a
character. The gaps in the little box show where lines are drawn
when you use the cursor to draw lines in text mode.
Cursor Movement
You can move the TEXT mode cursor all around the window using the
horizontal and vertical cursor keys. You can also move the window
by moving the cursor against the side of the window, or by
pressing one of the cursor movement keys, like PgUp or PgDn.
Drawing with the Cursor
You can draw lines in TEXT mode by holding down the shift key and
pressing one of the cursor keys. Lines generated this way run
through the gaps in the center of the TEXT mode cursor. Note that
the automatic line drawing function F6 generates lines that also
run through the gaps in the cursor. To erase in TEXT mode, use
the space bar.
Using the Tab Keys
The Tab key is located above the Ctrl key on the left side of the
keyboard. Pressing the Tab key moves the cursor to the next
horizontal tab position on the right. Holding down the shift key
and pressing the Tab key moves the cursor to the next horizontal
tab position on the left. Pressing Alt-U moves the cursor to the
next tab up and pressing Alt-D moves the cursor to the next tab
down.
If you tab to a location, FLODRAW remembers that tab location.
You can move the cursor to draw lines or enter text, but when you
tab again, FLODRAW starts your tab from the last tab location. See
the section in Chapter 6 on Using Tab Keys for more information.
Moving the Window around the Diagram
You can move the window around the diagram in two ways. First,
you can move the window one row or column at a time by pushing the
cursor against the edge of the window. Second, you can move the
window by using the PgUp or PgDn keys to move the window up or
down the diagram. Or you can use the grey "+" or grey "-" keys on
the right side of the keyboard to move the window right ("+") or
left ("-"). If your keyboard does not have the grey keys, you can
also use Alt-R to move right and Alt-L to move left.
TEXT Mode Editing 4.3
Functions Available in TEXT Mode
The TEXT mode menu displays most of the functions available in TEXT
mode. The functions that are not listed on the menu lines can be found
on the help screen (Alt-H). All the functions are described here.
Switching to DRAW Mode [F1]
The F1 key will toggle you back and forth between TEXT mode and
DRAW mode. You can tell which mode you are in by the shape of the
cursor or by the capitalized description of the mode on the menu
next to F1.
Preview Diagram [F2]
The F2 key will show a view of the entire diagram. This feature
is the same as discussed with the entry menu.
Save Function [F3]
In TEXT mode this function has two options: one option saves a
symbol and one option saves a file.
Save Symbol [F1]
Use this option to create your own symbols. This option will
prompt you to follow 5 steps to save a symbol.
1. Move the cursor to the upper left corner of the symbol, then
press F1.
2. Move the cursor to the first cursor position in the symbol,
then press F1. This location determines where the cursor will be
set after the symbol has been inserted in your diagram. If you
will always enter text in your symbol at the same location, you
might want to make that location the first cursor position. If it
doesn't matter, you can leave the cursor in the upper left corner,
and press F1.
3. Move the cursor to the center of the symbol, then press F1.
This location determines how the symbol will be located on your
diagram when you call it up from the symbol library. The program
will align the center of the symbol with the cursor on the screen.
The location of the center is entirely up to you. The only
restriction is that it must be inside the symbol block.
4. Move the cursor to the lower right corner of the symbol, then
press F1.
5. The program will prompt you for a symbol name. The extension
must be SYM in order for the file to be used by the library batch
file that maintains the symbol libraries. The file name can be
anything, but I suggest that you try to use descriptive names. As
an example, a symbol of a telephone might be called PHONE.SYM.
TEXT Mode Editing 4.4
This will help you keep track of what is in the symbol files. The
program will return you to the edit screen after it writes the
symbol file to the disk.
Refer to the section in Chapter 6 on Creating Symbols for more
information on symbols.
Save File [F3]
Use this option to save the current diagram. This option was
provided here to make it easy for you to save your diagram while
you are working. Just press F3 twice from the edit screen menu.
Font Menu [F4]
The Font Menu first displays a menu of font sizes. You can select from
small, normal, and large size fonts by pressing the function key shown
on the menu. After you select a font size, the program will show you
the font menu for that size. The font menu displays the active font
and, for the normal and small fonts, lists the fonts that are
available. If you have selected the normal font size, FLODRAW will
continue to use your selected font as the active font when you leave
the font menu and return to the TEXT edit screen.
When you select either the small or large font, the mode changes to
DRAW so you can adjust the cursor position for the change in font
size. After you have adjusted the cursor position, press F1 to change
the mode to CHAR mode before typing text. The small and large fonts
can only be used while you are in the font menu.
The smallest font has capital letters only, but includes all special
characters. The large fonts have capital letters only and include the
special characters for comma, period, slash, and dash.
Font Mode [F1]
There are three modes available on the font menu. Pressing F1
changes the mode. When you are in DRAW or CHAR mode, you must
keep the cursor more than one character from the edge of the page.
When you approach the edge of the screen, FLODRAW tries to adjust
the diagram so that the cursor is in the middle of the screen.
Font TEXT Mode
This is the standard mode for entering text and is the same as
TEXT mode on the edit screen. The program determines how the
characters are aligned on the screen.
Font DRAW Mode
This mode allows you to move the cursor one pixel at a time. You
can determine where the characters will be aligned. You can enter
text in DRAW mode, but if you have to move the cursor, you should
change to CHAR mode, since it's faster.
TEXT Mode Editing 4.5
Font CHAR Mode
This mode leaves the cursor aligned the way you set it in DRAW mode,
but now the cursor keys move the cursor one character at a time.
Auto Function [F5]
Each of the auto functions inserts specific data into your diagram.
FLODRAW knows that this data requires special maintenance, and so it
maintains it for you. For example, if you select the date function,
FLODRAW puts the current date on your diagram prefixed by an
identifying flag. Whenever you save your diagram, FLODRAW will read the
flag and overlay the date with the new current date. The time function
works the same way.
The page function is useful when you have multiple page diagrams. When
you insert the page number function in your diagram, FLODRAW will take
the page number in the extension and load it as the page number of your
diagram. For example, if you have a diagram file called 'MY_CHART.01',
FLODRAW will load the number '01' as the page number in your diagram.
The pages-of function works in a similar way and lets you specify how
many pages are in your diagram, like 'page 01 of 02.' If in our
example, we had a second file called 'MY_CHART.02', FLODRAW would know
from reading all the files in the directory that the highest page for
'MY_CHART' was '02', and it would load that number as the pages-of
number. If you change the file extension, or add or remove pages from
a multiple page diagram, the page numbers will change automatically.
All you have to do is reprint the pages.
We'll summarize the auto functions here. FLODRAW prefixes all auto
functions on your diagram with a 1 character identifying flag. This
flag will appear on the edit screen, but it will not print on your
diagram.
Date [F1] Use these functions on your diagram and
Time [F2] FLODRAW will update them when you save your
diagram.
Page no. [F3] Use these functions on your diagram and
Pages of [F4] FLODRAW will update them when you load your
diagram.
Line Function [F6]
This function draws an arrow between two symbols. This function works
by looking for starting and ending points along the direction of the
line. This means you must have lines or other objects drawn to
determine the starting and ending points of the line. The lines can be
drawn in eight directions as shown by the arrows on the "Line" function
menu. If the "Arrowhead" option is on, the arrowheads will be drawn in
the direction shown on the menu. This function has additional options
and the status of these options is capitalized on the menu line.
TEXT Mode Editing 4.6
Arrowheads [F9]
This option determines whether you get arrowheads or no arrowheads
at the end of a line. Press F9 to toggle between them.
Line [F10]
This option determines whether you draw a straight line or a dashed
line. Press F10 to toggle between them.
Block Functions [F7]
Block functions operate on a block of the diagram which you define by
marking the upper left corner and the lower right corner. The function
will prompt you to move the cursor key and press the function key in
order to outline the block you want to operate on. The following
options are available.
Mirror [F1]
This option reverses the image of the block.
Rotate [F2]
This option rotates the image 90 degrees. Due to the aspect
ratio of the screen, the shape of the image is distorted when you
use this feature.
Move [F3]
This option moves a block from one location in the diagram to
another. This function can also move a block between two portrait
format diagrams. Use Alt-F1 to switch to the other diagram when
prompted for the target location.
Copy [F4]
This option copies a block from one location in the diagram to
another. This function can also copy a block between two portrait
format diagrams. Use Alt-F1 to switch to the other diagram when
prompted for the target location.
Delete [F5]
This option deletes a block in the diagram.
Merge File Function [F8]
This function merges a symbol or other file into your diagram. You may
have stand-alone symbols that are too big to use in a symbol library.
Or you might want to use another diagram as a template to start your
next diagram. The "Merge" function will read a file from the disk and
merge it into your diagram. There are 2 options to determine how the
TEXT Mode Editing 4.7
merged file will be positioned on your diagram.
Upper Left Corner [F3]
Use this option to position the upper left corner of the merged
file at the cursor location.
Center [F7]
Use this option to position the center of merged file at the
cursor location. Remember that the center of the symbol is
defined when you create the symbol using the "Save symbol" option.
If you are merging a portrait diagram into a portrait diagram, it
doesn't matter how you try to position the merged file. FLODRAW will
load it as a portrait diagram.
UNDO [F9]
When you see the F9UNDO function on the menu line, it means you can
undo the last function you performed. The UNDO function is removed
from the menu line if you write text or draw lines on the diagram.
Symbol Library [F10]
This function displays up to eight symbols from the symbol library that
is currently loaded. You can select one of the eight symbols to draw on
the diagram, or you can request more symbols from the library. The
options for this function are as follows.
Symbols [F1 thru F8]
Each function key represents the symbol shown beneath it on the
menu line. If you press one of the function keys, the symbol will
be centered at the location of the cursor on the screen.
After centering the symbol on the screen, the program will locate
the cursor according to the first cursor location defined for that
symbol. This is usually to make it easy to enter text. But it
can also be used for drawing lines. For example, the HIPO library
contains symbols for drawing wide lines. When you select one of
the line symbols, the beginning of the line symbol is centered at
the cursor, and then the cursor is moved over one character to the
first cursor location. By repeatedly pressing the same key, you
can generate a line of any length.
UNDO [F9]
After you draw the symbol, you can "undraw" it if you change your
mind. You might want to use a different symbol or change the
location.
TEXT Mode Editing 4.8
More symbols [F10]
Pressing F10 displays the next eight symbols in the symbol
library. After you get to the end of the library, you will start
again with the first eight symbols in the library.
Exit the symbol library [ESC]
Pressing ESC takes you back to the TEXT mode edit screen.
While you're in the symbol library, you can use any of the tab keys and
diagram location keys to move the cursor around the diagram. You can
also enter text.
If you need to generate lines between symbols, you can call up the line
menu from within the symbol menu by pressing Alt-F6. You'll return to
the symbol menu after you've drawn your line. You can also generate
lines without using the line menu. The keys Ctrl-F1 through Ctrl-F8
represent the keys F1 through F8 on the line menu. You can use these
keys from the symbol menu. These keys are also available from the
TEXT edit screen.
Switch Files [Alt-F1]
This key is available only when you have a portrait format diagram
loaded. With portrait format diagrams you can load a primary diagram
and an alternate diagram. You can switch to the alternate diagram even
if you don't have one loaded. This allows you to use the alternate
diagram area as a scratch pad. You can design symbols on the scratch
pad, and then copy them onto your primary diagram. You can also exit
to the entry menu of the alternate diagram and save your scratch pad
using the "Save with new name" function.
Multiple Page Diagram Key Commands
FLODRAW has special keys to support multiple page diagrams. These keys
are available on the TEXT edit screen. They will only work with files
that have sequentially numbered file extensions, like '01', '02', etc.
If you make changes to your current diagram without saving it and try to
load a new diagram, FLODRAW will warn you before loading a new diagram.
Load Next Page [Alt-N]
This key will load the file with the next sequential page number
in a multiple page diagram. If there is no file with the next
sequential number, FLODRAW will tell you "There are no more
files".
Load Previous Page [Alt-P]
This key will load the file with the next lower page number in a
multiple page diagram. If there is no file with the next lower
number, FLODRAW will tell you "There are no more files".
TEXT Mode Editing 4.9
Insert Next Page [Alt-I]
This key will insert a new page with the same file name and give
it a file extension that is 1 higher than the current extension.
If there are already higher file extensions for this file name,
FLODRAW will bump them up by one. Before doing the insert,
FLODRAW will show you a diagram explaining which file will be
inserted, and which files will be renamed, if any. FLODRAW will
use the current page as a template for the inserted page.
Inserted pages will always be in portrait format.
HELP Screen of Cursor and Tab Keys [Alt-H]
The HELP screen for the TEXT edit screen shows the special keys you can
use for editing in TEXT mode. You may want to refer to this screen
occasionally, until you become more familiar with FLODRAW.
Chapter 5. DRAW Mode Editing 5.1
The DRAW mode editing screen has the same layout as the TEXT mode
editing screen, but there are some differences in the cursor and how it
is used. These differences are described below.
Cursor
The DRAW mode cursor is a small arrow that points to the upper
left. The tip of the cursor is a blinking dot. The blinking dot
is the current cursor location.
Cursor Movement
You can move the cursor with the horizontal, vertical, and
diagonal cursor keys. The diagonal cursor keys are the Home,
PgUp, End, and PgDn keys. The cursor must stay within the current
window. If you need to move the window to another location in
your diagram, you must toggle to TEXT mode, move the window, then
toggle back to DRAW mode.
Drawing with the Cursor
Drawing free-hand with the cursor is the same as for TEXT mode.
While holding down the shift key, press one of the cursor keys.
To erase, toggle the F8 key from WRITE to ERASE. The cursor will
change to an arrow with an "E" on its tail. The cursor will now
work as an eraser.
Functions Available in DRAW Mode
The following functions are available in DRAW mode. Several are
similar or the same as functions that are available in TEXT mode.
Switching to TEXT Mode [F1]
The F1 key will toggle you back and forth between TEXT mode and DRAW
mode. You can tell which mode you are in by the shape of the cursor or
by the capitalized description of the mode on the menu next to F1.
Preview Diagram [F2]
The F2 key will show a view of the entire diagram. This feature is
discussed with the entry menu.
Save Function [F3]
Unlike TEXT mode, this function has only one option in DRAW mode.
Save file [F3]
Use this option to save the current diagram. This option was
provided here to make it easy for you to save your diagram while
Chapter 5. DRAW Mode Editing 5.2
you are working. Just press F3 twice from the edit screen menu.
Arrowhead Function [F4]
This function will draw an arrowhead in any one of eight directions.
Press F4 to get the arrowhead menu. The arrowhead menu shows a
function key for each of the eight arrowhead directions. Move the
cursor to the location in the window where you want the point of the
arrowhead to appear, and then press the function key for the arrowhead.
Circle [F5]
This function draws a circle or ellipse using points you mark inside
the window. The actual circle or ellipse can extend outside the
window. The function works like this.
1. The function will prompt you to move the cursor to the center
of the circle and press F5, or select the "Ellipse" option with
F6. Let's consider the circle first.
2. After you've selected the center of the circle, the program
will mark that location with a flashing dot. The program will
then prompt you to move the cursor to the edge of the circle and
press F5. The edge can be in any direction. It doesn't have to
be along the horizontal, although that's usually the most
convenient.
3. The program will draw the circle. You now have four options.
a. You can draw another circle using the same center, just
by moving the cursor to the edge of a new circle and
pressing F5.
b. You can UNDO your circle by pressing F9, and then redraw
the circle by moving the cursor to the edge of the circle
and pressing F5.
c. You can press ESC once to start another circle somewhere
else in the window.
d. You can press ESC twice to return to the edit
screen.
If you select the "Ellipse" option, you will need to define the height
and width of the ellipse in addition to the center.
1. The function will prompt you to move the cursor to the center
of the ellipse and press F6.
2. After you've marked the center of the ellipse, the program
will prompt you to move the cursor to the top of the ellipse and
press F6. You are actually marking the height, so you don't have
to worry about centering the cursor on the vertical axis. The
Chapter 5. DRAW Mode Editing 5.3
program will remember the spot even though it doesn't mark it
with a flashing dot.
3. The program will prompt you to move the cursor to the side of
the ellipse and press F6. Again, you are actually marking the
width, so you don't have to stay on the horizontal, and you can
use the left or right side. After you press F6, the program will
draw the ellipse. Now you can do one of the following.
a. You can draw another ellipse using the same center,
just by repeating steps 2 and 3.
b. You can UNDO your ellipse by pressing F9, and then
redraw the ellipse by repeating steps 2 and 3.
c. You can press ESC once to start another ellipse or
circle somewhere else in the window.
d. You can press ESC twice to return to the edit screen.
Line Function [F6]
This function draws a line between two points in the window. The
function will draw a straight line or dashes depending on how the F10
LINE/DASH option is set. The LINE/DASH option will appear when you
select this function. The Line function works like this.
1. The function will prompt you to move the cursor to the start
of the line, and then press F6. The starting point will flash on
the screen until the line is completed.
2. The function will prompt you to move the cursor to the end of
the line and press F6. The program will then draw a line between
the two points. Now, you have several options.
a. You can continue drawing a line using the last point as
the first point of the next line. Just move the cursor to
the end of the new line and press F6. The program will draw
a line between the end of your last line and your new point.
You can repeat this as often as needed.
b. You can UNDO the line you just drew by pressing the F9
key. Your first point will still flash, so just move the
cursor to a new end point and press F6.
c. Press ESC once if you want to start a new line somewhere
else in the window.
d. Press ESC twice to return to the edit screen menu.
DRAW Mode Editing 5.4
Block Functions [F7]
Block functions in DRAW mode operate on an area in the window. You
define the area by drawing around it with the cursor. The function is
used like this.
1. First this function will prompt you to select an option of
move, copy, or delete, by pressing the F3, F4, or F5 key.
2. The function will prompt you to draw around the area using
the shift key and the cursor keys. You can draw around the area
in any shape you like, but the line you draw must completely
enclose the area. The enclosed area does not include the line you
draw. After drawing the line, press the function key for the
option you have selected.
3. The function will prompt you to move the cursor to a point
inside the area you enclosed. This reference point will
determine how to locate the area. Press the function key after
you have moved the cursor. If you are using the "Delete" option,
this completes the deletion.
4. Move the cursor to the target area and press the function
key. The enclosed area will be moved or copied to the target
area. The program will align the reference point in the enclosed
area with the location of the cursor.
5. Press ESC once to return to the block edit menu, twice to
return to the DRAW mode menu line.
The following block functions are available.
Move [F3]
This option moves an area from one location in the window to
another.
Copy [F4]
This function copies an area from one location in the window to
another.
Delete [F5]
This function deletes an area in the window.
UNDO [F9]
When you see the F9UNDO function on the menu line, it means you can
undo the last function you performed just like in TEXT mode. The UNDO
function is removed if you draw a line with the shift and cursor keys.
Chapter 5. DRAW Mode Editing 5.5
HELP Screen of Cursor Keys [Alt-H]
The HELP screen for DRAW edit mode screen describes the keys you can
use for editing in DRAW mode. You may want to refer to this screen
until you become more familiar with FLODRAW.
Chapter 6. Using FLODRAW 6.1
Using Tab Keys
Using the tab keys is the easiest way to ensure that your symbols will
be aligned correctly. The tab locations form an invisible grid on your
diagram, and as long as symbols are entered on the tab locations, they
will appear aligned and evenly separated.
Here are some general rules about how FLODRAW uses the tabs.
1. When FLODRAW inserts a symbol, it remembers where the cursor
was when the symbol was inserted. We'll call the location that
FLODRAW remembers "the original cursor location".
Simple editing commands like entering text and drawing lines do
not reset the original cursor location. Even though you use the
cursor keys to move the cursor around the screen, when you press
the tab key, FLODRAW remembers the original cursor position, and
starts the tab from that position.
This allows you to insert a symbol in your diagram, enter text in
the symbol, or draw lines between symbols. Then when you use a
tab key, the next tab location will line up with the last symbol
that you inserted.
Editing commands that move the window, like PgUp, Home, Alt-S,
etc., do reset the original cursor position. And, of course, the
tab keys also reset the original cursor position.
2. You can change the original cursor position by moving the
cursor with the cursor keys to a new position and pressing Alt-W
(neW position). This position does not have to be on a tab mark.
The next time you press a tab key, FLODRAW will tab starting from
this new position.
3. When you press a tab key, FLODRAW moves the cursor to the
original cursor position and then looks for the next available tab
in the direction indicated by the key press. FLODRAW ignores the
tabs on the vertical ruler line when you tab left and right. And
likewise, it ignores tabs on the horizontal ruler line when you
tab up and down. Sometimes, it may appear that FLODRAW is seeking
both the vertical and horizontal tabs when you press a tab key.
But this is because you moved the cursor from its original cursor
position before pressing the tab key.
When FLODRAW loads your program, it will position the cursor at the
first tab location in your diagram. If you want to start from the
center of the line, use Alt-C (Center tab) to move the cursor to the
tab location in the center of the line.
If you need to align the cursor with a tab location, you don't have to
use the tab keys. Just move the cursor near the tab area and press
Alt-G (Get nearest tab). FLODRAW will position the cursor at the
nearest intersection of the horizontal and vertical tabs and reset the
original cursor location.
Chapter 6. Using FLODRAW 6.2
You may want to change the tab marks if your symbols are consistently
smaller or larger than the size of the flowchart symbols. You can
change the location of the tab marks using the "Setup Options" function
on the entry menu. And you can save the tab locations so they will
be reloaded the next time you use FLODRAW.
Sketch Your Diagram First
Nothing beats pencil and paper to plan a diagram (if it's a group
effort, a blackboard works well, too). Some diagrams are simple enough
that you won't need to plan ahead. But most require some kind of plan
so that the final diagram is easy to read and contains all necessary
information. Sketch your diagram on paper first. Try rearranging your
symbols for the best design. Remember that your first design is
probably not the best. Like anything else, it takes several tries to
find the right approach.
Your sketch doesn't have to be as complete or detailed as your final
diagram will be. You just need to plan the major components of your
diagram. And don't try to make your sketch look neat. That's
FLODRAW'S job. A neat sketch gives the appearance of a finished
design. And if it looks finished, you'll tend to resist making changes
to it. That's not what you want when you're still in the planning
stage. You want a sketch that invites changes and new ideas. Work
with your sketch until you feel comfortable with the design. Now
you're ready for FLODRAW.
Starting Your Diagram with a Template
You can use FLODRAW to create diagrams with a template diagram. Just
save the template as a separate diagram. Each time you create a new
diagram, merge the template diagram into the new diagram before you
start to edit it. You could also include the template on your symbol
file. Here is the procedure for merging a template diagram into your
empty diagram. We'll assume you've created a template diagram called
'TEMPLATE' and that you keep this file on your program disk.
1. Put the program disk in drive A.
2. Put your data disk in drive B.
3. Enter "FLODRAW B:MYCHART.01" where MYCHART.01 will be the name
of your new diagram.
4. FLODRAW will prompt you for a page format. Reply with F1 for a
portrait format diagram.
5. When FLODRAW shows a blank edit screen, press F8 for the
"Merge" function. Press F8 again to merge center. When you're
merging a file into a diagram and they are both the same size, it
doesn't matter which "Merge" option you use, or where the cursor
is. FLODRAW will align the merge file correctly.
Chapter 6. Using FLODRAW 6.3
6. FLODRAW will prompt you for the merge file name. Type the
filename TEMPLATE or select it from the directory listing using
the bounce bar. FLODRAW will merge the file into your diagram.
7. Press ESC to return to the edit menu.
You can easily create templates in TEXT mode using the cursor to draw
lines (holding down the shift key and pressing the cursor key). You
can draw long lines quicker by drawing the start and end of the line
using the cursor keys, then using the "Line" function to fill in the
middle. Press F6 for the "Line" function, then press F9 to toggle the
ARROW option to NO ARROWS, before selecting your line option.
Drawing Organization Charts
You can draw organization charts using one of the flowchart box
symbols. To illustrate how to draw organization charts quickly, here
is the procedure to draw a simple two level chart. Our example has a
president at the top level and two vice-presidents at the second level.
First we'll draw the boxes. Then we'll draw the connecting lines, and
finally, we'll fill in the text. In this example, we'll use the box
symbol from the flowchart library in FLODRAW.LIB.
We'll draw the chart using the TEXT mode edit screen. The symbols have
been designed so that the lines drawn with the TEXT mode cursor will
connect with the lines of the symbol.
1. Draw the box for the president.
a. Press F10 to bring up the symbol menu.
b. Position the cursor at the location for the first
chart entry by pressing Alt-C for center, then Alt-G
to get the nearest tab. Press F1 to select the box
from the symbol menu and insert it in your diagram at
the cursor location.
2. Draw the box for the first vice-president.
a. Press Alt-D to tab down to the second level.
b. Tab left to position the cursor for the first box
on the second level, and press F1 to draw the box.
3. Draw the box for the second vice-president. Tab right twice
and press F1 to draw the second box.
4. Draw the lines connecting the boxes using the shift key and
the TEXT mode cursor.
5. Now finish by adding text to the boxes.
Chapter 6. Using FLODRAW 6.4
Printing Diagrams
FLODRAW uses the entire area of a diagram as the drawing area. This
means you must allow for your own margin space at the top, bottom, and
sides, if you expect to see margins on your printed diagram. For
example, if you want a 1 inch margin on the left side of the diagram
for a 3 hole punch, you would leave the first 10 columns of the diagram
blank.
Since row 1 is at the top of the page, you will normally start your
drawing several rows below 1 to give your diagram a margin at the top
of the page. Make sure the print head is aligned with top of the paper
before printing, so that the first several blank rows will provide the
margin you expect.
The one exception to this is if you are using the HP LaserJet printer
with the reduced format option. This print option is only available on
the LaserJet, and it provides a wide margin around the page. If you
select this option, you can use the entire print area for your diagram.
Printer Support
FLODRAW supports the printers listed below. If your printer is not
mentioned here, check your printer manual to see if your printer
emulates one of the printers that FLODRAW can use. Many printers
provide emulation modes for the EPSON MX, FX, or IBM Proprinter.
Print time depends on how much is on your diagram. Diagrams that are
very "busy" will take longer to print than diagrams that have a lot of
blank space.
EPSON FX
FLODRAW was originally designed to work with the FX printer's CRT
graphics mode (640 dots per 80 character line). It's the fastest
print mode for a dot matrix printer and the print quality is very
good. It's called single strike on the print menu.
The bold strike uses quad density (1920 dots per 80 character
line), but takes 3 times as long. However, the print quality is
very good.
EPSON LQ
FLODRAW uses triple density bit mode on the LQ printer (1440 dots
per 80 character line). Very good print quality.
EPSON MX
FLODRAW uses the double density bit mode on the MX printer (960
dots per 80 character line). This produces a "rough" print which
is not as even as printers with higher density. But it's
acceptable for draft quality.
Chapter 6. Using FLODRAW 6.5
IBM Proprinter
FLODRAW uses quad density (1920 dots per 80 character line) for
both single strike and bold strike on this printer. So the print
time will be the same. If you have a Proprinter, try both modes
and select the one you like best. Print quality is very good.
Toshiba P321/341/351
FLODRAW uses triple density (1440 dots per 80 character line).
Print quality is very good.
Star Gemini 10x
Similar to the Epson MX, it produces draft quality output.
HP LaserJet plus/II
There are two print options available with the LaserJet, reduced
and full/reduced. Both produce excellent print quality.
The reduced print option prints a diagram reduced in size about
20% compared to the full option.
When you select the full/reduced option, the edit screen will show
dotted margin lines on the bottom and right side of your diagram.
To use the full option, your diagram must not cross the dotted
margin lines on the left and bottom of your diagram page. If you
do cross the margin lines, the printer will use the reduced
option. If you do not cross the margin lines, the printer will
use the full option (hence the "full/reduced"; it could be either
depending on whether or not you cross the margin lines). The
margin lines are only visible when you select the full/reduced
option.
Try both print options to decide which you prefer. Create a small
sample diagram and print it using the reduced option, and then
print it using the full/reduced option. When printing with the
full/reduced option, make sure your diagram does not cross the
dotted margin lines. After comparing the output from the two
options, save your preferred print option on the option file.
Most laser printers are compatible with the HP LaserJet Plus or
II. Some laser printers also emulate dot matrix printers. If
your laser printer emulates the FX-80 printer, try printing a
diagram with the FX-80 emulation. Then use the print mode which
gives you the best combination of print quality and speed.
Chapter 7. Symbol Libraries 7.1
What are Symbols and Symbol Libraries?
Symbols are pictures that may be used repeatedly when drawing a
diagram. Usually, they're small, since the program was designed to
display small symbols. However, symbols could be the size of the
diagram itself.
This program makes it easy to draw diagrams that require the use of
standard symbols. For example, drawing an electrical diagram may
require the same drawing of a resistor several times. By having the
resistor symbol already stored in the computer's memory, you can call
it up whenever you need it. This saves the time of drawing it or
copying it each time you need a diagram of a resistor.
A symbol library is a collection of symbol files in one file. A symbol
library usually contains symbols that are related or used in the same
application. For example, the symbol library called FLOCHART.LIB
contains symbols that are used to draw computer system flowcharts. A
DOS batch file called LIBRARY.BAT is used to collect the symbol files
into a single file. We'll discuss how you can create your own symbols
and then add them to a library.
Creating Symbols
You create symbols while you're editing a diagram. It doesn't matter
whether you're working on a diagram and suddenly realize you need a
symbol. Or you have an idea for a library of symbols, and just want to
bring up the edit screen to create symbols. The procedure is the same.
If you are already in the edit screen of a diagram, you're ready to
start. If you aren't working on a diagram, and just want to create
symbols for later use, start FLODRAW and use the name of any file, say
TEMP (for temporary). We won't save the temporary file. It will just
provide us with an area to work in.
If you are working with a portrait format diagram, you might want to
toggle to TEXT mode, and then press Alt-F1 to switch to the alternate
buffer. This will provide you with a large scratch pad to design your
symbol, so you don't overwrite your diagram by mistake. After you've
created the symbol and saved it from the alternate buffer, you can move
it back to your diagram using the "Move" function or merge the saved
symbol into your diagram using the "Merge" function.
Now, let's take a closer look at how we create a symbol. You can
design your symbol using the drawing tools in FLODRAW. Let's say you
want to create a library of symbols for diagrams describing how
furniture should be arranged in a room. One of the symbols you will
need will be a chair. So, in our example, you will draw a symbol of a
chair and call it CHAIR.SYM. Symbols must have an extension of SYM in
order to be recognized by the batch file, LIBRARY.BAT.
After you have drawn the symbol for the chair, toggle to TEXT mode if
you're not already in TEXT mode. Press F3 for the "Save" function.
Then press F1 for the"Save symbol" option. The "Save symbol" option
Symbol Libraries 7.2
will prompt you for the following cursor locations.
1. The upper left corner of the symbol. Symbols are always stored
as rectangular blocks. Move the cursor to the upper left corner
of the symbol. The cursor row and column define the top row and
left column of the symbol. Then press F1.
2. The first cursor location in the symbol. When the program
draws the symbol on a diagram, it will locate the cursor inside
the symbol at the location you specify here. This is handy if you
expect to write text inside the symbol. You can have the cursor
appear at the first character location for text. If you don't
care where the cursor appears, you can leave it at the upper left
corner. Press F1 to continue.
3. The middle of the symbol. This is a reference point for
locating the symbol. When the program draws the symbol, it will
align the middle of the symbol with the location of the cursor.
This is usually in the middle of the symbol, but it doesn't have
to be. Press F1 to continue.
If you're creating a symbol that's designed to be repetitive, as
in a border or a line, you can put the first cursor location on
the extreme right side of the symbol. Put the middle of the
symbol at the extreme left side of the symbol. When you're ready
to use the symbol from a library, you can "walk" the symbol from
left to right just by repeating the symbol. The horizontal line
symbols in the HIPO library are designed this way.
4. The lower right corner of the symbol. The cursor row and
column will define the bottom row and right column of the symbol.
Press F1.
5. The name of the symbol. In our example, we would enter
CHAIR.SYM. And our symbol for the chair is saved as CHAIR.SYM on
the default drive.
6. To verify that you have successfully saved the symbol the way
you wanted to, use the "Merge" function. Select the "Merge"
option to center the symbol, and move the cursor to an empty area
of the diagram or scratch pad. When prompted for the name, enter
CHAIR.SYM. You should now see your symbol displayed on the
diagram.
Editing Symbols
You can edit a symbol by merging it into a diagram, or by editing the
symbol file itself. In either case, when you save the symbol, you have
to use the "Save symbol" option of the "Save" function in TEXT mode,
and you will have to enter all the locations required by the "Save
symbol" option. If you try to use the "Save file" option, you will
save the whole diagram, rather than just the symbol.
Where possible, use the TEXT mode line drawing option. You'll find
Symbol Libraries 7.3
it's faster and easier to correct symbols drawn in TEXT mode.
Creating Libraries
You use the batch file LIBRARY.BAT to add symbols to a new or existing
library. LIBRARY.BAT will work with 8 symbols at a time, but your
symbol library can be much larger than that. The symbol library can be
as large as 16k which is large enough for thirty-two 500-byte symbols,
although most symbols are only several hundred bytes. FLODRAW will
allow up to 64 symbols in a library.
Let's call your library ROOM.LIB. Let's say you've created three
symbols for your library. And those symbols are called CHAIR.SYM,
TABLE.SYM, SOFA.SYM. You'll use LIBRARY.BAT to create your library
like this.
1. Put your three symbol files and the LIBRARY.BAT file on a new
disk that we'll call a library disk. If you're going to create
your own symbol libraries, you'll find it more convenient to have
all your library files, your symbol files, and LIBRARY.BAT on one
disk.
Hard disk users may find it more convenient to keep the symbol
files on a separate directory with LIBRARY.BAT. And then after
creating the libraries copy them to the FLODRAW default directory.
2. Run the batch file with the following command. We'll assume
you will run the batch file from the default drive or directory.
LIBRARY ROOM CHAIR TABLE SOFA
This command executes the batch file LIBRARY.BAT to add to or
create a library called ROOM.LIB using the symbol files CHAIR.SYM,
TABLE.SYM, and SOFA.SYM.
3. The batch file will look for the library ROOM.LIB, and when
it can't find it, it will create a new library using your three
symbol files. Before it creates the library, it will tell you
what it's going to do. You can abort the batch command at this
point and start over.
After you have created the library ROOM.LIB, you are ready to use
it. When you want to use these library symbols in a diagram,
select the "Load new symbol library" function from the entry menu.
This function will prompt you for the library name. Put your
library disk in drive A and answer the program prompt with "ROOM"
or select the library from the directory listing using the bounce
bar. The program will load the library, and you can return to
the edit screen to use the symbols in library ROOM.
You can also make any library the default library that the program
loads at start-up. The default library is called FLODRAW.LIB.
Symbol Libraries 7.4
FLODRAW.LIB is distributed as a copy of FLOCHART.LIB. You can
change FLODRAW.LIB to another library simply by copying your
library to FLODRAW.LIB. Since FLODRAW.LIB must be on your program
disk, let's say you're going to copy ROOM.LIB from your library
disk in drive B to your program disk in drive A. Type in the
following DOS command.
COPY B:ROOM.LIB A:FLODRAW.LIB
This command copies the library file ROOM.LIB to the default
library file FLODRAW.LIB. The next time you use FLODRAW, the
library ROOM.LIB will be loaded as the default library.
Maintaining Libraries
After you have created a library, you can still add symbols to it.
Use the batch file LIBRARY.BAT the same way as you used to create
a new library. As an example, suppose you created two new symbols
for your library, ROOM.LIB. These symbols are LIGHT.SYM and
DESK.SYM. To add these symbols to your library, copy the symbols
to the library disk. Then type the following DOS command.
LIBRARY ROOM LIGHT DESK
This command will execute the batch file LIBRARY.BAT. LIBRARY.BAT
will look for the library file ROOM.LIB, and finding it, will
prepare to add your symbol files to it. LIBRARY.BAT will prompt
you to continue before it actually adds the symbols to the
library.
If you want to replace a symbol in the library, you must delete
the old library and recreate it from the beginning using the
replacement symbol. If you want to change the sequence that the
symbols appear on the symbol menu, you must also delete the old
library. You can then recreate it by entering the symbols in the
sequence you want them to display on the symbol menu.
You can create the original symbol files by loading the library,
inserting the symbols into a diagram, and then saving them using
the save symbol option of the TEXT mode "Save" function.
Appendix A. Error Messages A.1
When FLODRAW detects an error, it beeps to get your attention, then
displays a message on the error line. The error line is at the bottom
of the entry menu or on the ruler line if you're in the edit screen.
The format of the error message is:
(error number) (error description)
For example: 003 Try another key.
The errors are listed below in error number sequence. An explanation
follows each error message.
001 A graphics monitor is required
FLODRAW will only work with a monitor driven by a color
graphics adapter.
003 Try another key
Not all key presses are valid with each menu. Look at
the menu line for a list of valid function keys. ESC
will work at any time to take you back to the previous
screen.
006 File name invalid
The name you entered as a file name is not a valid DOS
file name. Follow the rules for naming DOS files.
008 Write unsuccessful - disk full
There is not enough space on the disk to save your
diagram file. Use a disk with sufficient free space.
009 Temporary file not deleted
FLODRAW tried to delete a temporary file that you did not
want to save, but could not. You can delete the file
yourself with the DOS ERASE command.
010 File cannot be found
Your file name cannot be found in the current directory.
Check that you spelled the name correctly.
011 Cannot find end of line
FLODRAW is trying to generate a line but cannot find a
starting or ending point for the line.
013 Second cursor entry is invalid
The function you are using requires that the cursor
location be within certain bounds.
015 Cursor too close to edge of screen
FLODRAW won't draw a character of arrowhead if it is
too close to the edge of the screen. Move the window
on the diagram so the cursor is not as close to the
edge of the screen.
016 Cursor too close to edge of page
FLODRAW won't draw arrowheads, small font characters,
and large font characters if they are too close to the
Error Messages A.2
edge of the page. Draw them in the middle of the page,
then move them to the edge of the page.
021 Symbol library is too large to load
You are trying to load a symbol library that is larger
than FLODRAW can hold.
022 This is not a FLODRAW file
You have tried to load a diagram that did not come from
FLODRAW.
023 Too many symbols in library
You are trying to load a library that has more symbols
than FLODRAW can handle.
024 Symbol too large to load
You are trying to load a library that has a symbol too
large for FLODRAW to handle.
026 File is too large to load
You are trying to load a file that is larger than the
current diagram. This would occur if you tried to
merge a landscape diagram into a portrait diagram.
027 Error saving block, please retry
FLODRAW was not successful with the last "Save" function.
028 Current file has not been saved
You have requested printing all flagged files, but you
have not saved the current diagram. If you don't save
it, you'll lose it when you print other files.
031 No files found in directory
The current directory has no files to display.
032 Invalid drive letter
You have specified a drive letter that is not on your
system.
033 Scratch file-save with entry menu
You are trying to use the "Save" function on the edit
screen with a file that has not been named. Return to
the entry menu and use the "Save with new name"
function.
034 Path not found
You have tried to change the path with the directory
option, but the program could not find the path you
requested.
035 Error opening FLODRAW.OPT
The program could not find FLODRAW.OPT. Check that the
file is in the current directory.
Error Messages A.3
036 Error reading FLODRAW.OPT
The program could not recognize FLODRAW.OPT. Use the
FLODRAW setup option function to create a new
FLODRAW.OPT.
037 LIB file must have LIB extension
All library files must have an extension of LIB.
041 No LIBs in FLOPT directory
FLODRAW could not find any library files in either the
current directory or the FLODRAW default directory.
046 Error changing to FLOPT directory
Check the path name on the SET FLOPT= command on
your CONFIG.SYS file.
047 No LIBs in dir and no FLOPT dir
FLODRAW could not find any library files in the current
directory and no FLOPT directory was setup in
CONFIG.SYS.
049 Too many files in directory!!!
You have more filenames in your directory than FLODRAW
can handle. FLODRAW can handle 834 filenames.
052 Top of directory
You are at the top of the directory display.
053 Bottom of directory
You are at the bottom of the directory display.
061 No errors
This error message is used to show the location of
the error line.
071 Open error on print flag file
FLODRAW was not able to open FLODRAW.PRT in the current
directory. FLODRAW.PRT contains the names of the files
to be printed. Erase FLODRAW.PRT and flag all the files
you want to print to create a new FLODRAW.PRT.
072 Read error on print flag file
FLODRAW was not able to read FLODRAW.PRT. Erase
FLODRAW.PRT and flag all the files you want to print to
create a new FLODRAW.PRT.
073 Print flag file is too large
FLODRAW was unable to read all the records in
FLODRAW.PRT. Erase FLODRAW.PRT and flag all the files
you want to print to create a new FLODRAW.PRT.
074 No more room in print flag file
FLODRAW was unable to add another filename to
FLODRAW.PRT. Print the flagged files you have before
continuing.
Error Messages A.4
075 Name not found in print file
FLODRAW tried to find a filename in FLODRAW.PRT to
delete but could not. No action required.
076 Print file name not in directory
FLODRAW.PRT has a filename that is not in the current
directory, so FLODRAW is unable to print the file. The
file may have been deleted, so no action is required.
077 Using page = 01, press any key...
You tried to use the "Autopage" function, but the filename
extension is not a page number between 01 and 99.
FLODRAW will use 00 when you press a key. This error
also occurs when you load a diagram that has the
autopage prefix but the filename is not a page number.
Change the name of the file so that it has a page number
as a file extension.
079 Using total = 01, press any key...
You tried to use the "autopage total" function, but
FLODRAW could not find any files with the same name that
had page number file extensions. This error also occurs
when you load a diagram that has the autopage total
prefix and there are no files with the same name with
page number file extensions. Change the name of the
file so that it has a page number as a file extension.
081 No help available for this screen
This screen does not have its own help screen.
082 No HELP-press any key to continue...
This message only appears in test versions of FLODRAW.
084 Save current file before inserting
The file you are editing is a new file and has not been
saved. Before you can insert a multiple page file, you
have to save the file you are editing.
085 File extension is not a page number
Change the file name so that the file extension is a
page number between 01 and 99.
087 Highest page nbr is already at 99
You already have a file with an extension of 99.
FLODRAW can only handle page numbers up to 99.
108 Bottom of page
You have reached the bottom of the diagram.
109 Top of page
You have reached the top to the diagram.
110 Right side of page
You have reached the right side of the diagram.
Error Messages A.5
111 Left side of page
You have reached the left side of the diagram.
121 2nd buffer is not active
You are trying to switch to the 2nd buffer, but you
can only do it if you have loaded a portrait format
diagram in the 1st buffer.
131 There are no more files
You requested the next or previous file in a multiple
page diagram. But you are already at the last file.
133 Not available during DEMO
Some key presses, notably Alt-F1, are not available
during a DEMO. This is only to keep you from
accidentally creating a DEMO file.
134 DEMO cannot be saved
This keeps the DEMO files intact so they can be used
again.
201 Subject too large to copy or move
You are trying to use the TEXT mode "Copy" or "Move"
block function, but your block is too big for FLODRAW
to handle.
205 Subject too large to save for undo
You are trying to use a function that would allow you to
use the UNDO function, but there is not enough room.
Retry with a smaller block.
211 Check line boundary or reference point
You are trying to do a DRAW mode block function, but you
did not completely enclose your subject, or you did not
set the reference point inside the enclosure.
213 Ref pt too close to edge of screen
When you do a DRAW mode block function, you must keep
the reference point more than 1 character from the edge
of the screen.
901-999 are reserved for system error messages. System error
messages should not occur during normal use of FLODRAW.
Appendix B. User Supported Software B.1
FLODRAW is marketed as "User Supported Software". User Supported Software
is also know as "Shareware". This method of software marketing has become
increasingly popular in the last few years. It has helped provide the
personal computer community with many quality software programs at very
reasonable prices.
What is User Supported Software?
User Supported Software is software you try before you buy. Unlike
commercial software, the author encourages you to copy the program freely
and share it with others. Because sharing software is encouraged, you can
get copies of programs from friends or business associates, computer club
and user group libraries, bulletin board systems, and shareware vendors.
This unique distribution network benifits the author by providing a low
cost method of marketing the software, a benefit that is passed on to you
in lower prices. But it also benefits you by giving you easy access to a
wide variety of programs that you can try out on your own. It's
successful because this is the full featured working version of the
program, not a demonstration or crippled copy.
You can try the program out in your home or where you work, at your
convenience, at your own pace, and on your own computer system. You
decide whether the program suits your needs or not. If you decide to keep
the program, you are trusted to purchase the program from the author.
What do you get if you pay for the program?
If you pay for the program you'll receive
1. The latest version of the program.
2. A printed manual.
3. Notification of program updates.
4. Offers to upgrade at low cost.
5. Technical support by mail.
6. Satisfaction in participating honestly in this unique method
of software marketing.
Your payment also shows that you support the concept of User Supported
Software. Your support will insure that this concept will continue to
grow as a low cost alternative to expensive commercial software.
Licensing for Commercial and Government Organizations
Each registered copy of FLODRAW is licensed for use on one computer. If
you will use FLODRAW on more than one computer, you must purchase one copy
for each computer. Please see the multiple copy discounts on the
registration form.
User Supported Software B.2
Restrictions
Please copy and share this program freely with friends and associates.
The following restrictions protect you and the author from persons who
would misuse the right to copy and share this program.
1. You cannot charge a price for this program. However, you may
charge a distribution cost to cover the cost of the diskettes,
postage, and handling, as long as it is not more than $10.
2. You cannot sell this program as part of another package.
3. You cannot modify, delete, or add to any of the files that are
included with this program.
4. You may upload this program to a bulletin board system only if
you combine all the files on each diskette into a single library
or archive format file.
5. Schools and educational institutions may distribute copies of
FLODRAW to students under the following conditions.
a. The school or instructor must register 1 copy
of FLODRAW in order that you have the latest
update.
b. You do not charge the student more than the
cost of the disk.
c. you provide each student with the following
notice.
+--------------------------------------------------------+
| |
| This copy of FLODRAW is provided to you as a |
| courtesy of (school or instructor name) and the |
| author of FLODRAW. The school has not paid a |
| registration fee for this copy, but the author |
| allows you to use this copy without registering |
| as long as you use it as a student. |
| |
| If you would like to receive a printed manual and |
| the latest copy of the program, you may purchase |
| a registered copy. Please refer to the |
| registration instructions in the documentation |
| or the program. |
| |
| George Freund |
| P. O. Box 203 |
| Mentor, OH 44061 |
| |
+--------------------------------------------------------+
F L O D R A W 2 R E G I S T R A T I O N F O R M
Send this form Date: ______________
with payment to:
George Freund Federal Employer ID No.
P.O. Box 203 Use SSN 160-36-5172
Mentor, Ohio 44061
Please register my copy(s) of FLODRAW to:
Name _____________________________________________________
Company _____________________________________________________
Address _____________________________________________________
City ___________________________ State _____ Zip _______
+------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| Unit Extended |
| Qty Description Price Price |
+------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| |
| ____ FLODRAW 2 Registration package $35.00 ________ |
| Includes program disk and printed manual |
| Disk size? 5 1/4___ 3 1/2___ |
| |
| Discount for 5 or more registrations - ________ |
| (total of registration pkgs & registrations below) |
| For 5 to 9 registrations ..... deduct 20% |
| For 10 to 24 registrations ... deduct 25% |
| For 25 to 49 registrations ... deduct 30% |
| For 50 registrations or more . deduct 35% |
| |
| Ohio residents, please add 5.75% sales tax + ________ |
| |
| Shipping & handling for registration pkg order + 2.50 |
| |
| Orders outside U.S. and Canada, please include + ________ |
| additional $2.50 shipping & handling |
+------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| |
| ____ FLODRAW 2 Registration only $25.00 ________ |
| Does not include disk or printed manual |
| |
| Discount (See discount schedule above) - ________ |
+------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| |
| Total amount enclosed ________ |
| |
| Payment: MasterCard__ VISA__ Check__ (US funds on US bank, please)|
| |
| Card number_________________________________ Exp. Date____________ |
| |
| |
| Signature__________________________________________________________ |
| |
+------------------------------------------------------------------------+
GO.TXT
╔═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
║ <<<< Disk #2020 FLODRAW Disk 3 of 3 (912 and 913 also) >>>> ║
╠═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣
║ To start the program, insert disk 1 and type: FLODRAW (press enter) ║
║ ║
║ To print the documentation for FLODRAW, type: MANUAL (press enter) ║
╚═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
UPDATE.DOC
FLODRAW 2.1
User Manual Update
This update contains information about features that
were added to FLODRAW 2 to make FLODRAW 2.1.
To use this update:
1. Browse section 1 to see what's new.
2. Refer to section 2 to install or upgrade.
Table of Contents
Section 1 - Introduction .............. 1
What's New in Version 2.1
New Files Included with Version 2.1
Updated Files Included with Version 2.1
Section 2 - Installation .............. 4
Distribution Disks
Using INSTALL.EXE
Section 3 - Template Files ............ 8
What Are Template Files?
Using Template Files
Creating Template Files
Section 4 - Special Characters ........ 10
Using Special Characters
Defining Your Own Special Characters
Section 5 - Libraries & Symbols ....... 12
Symbol Libraries
Symbol Menu
Section 6 - Other Edit Enhancements ... 14
Copy/Move Option to Save Keypress
Small/Big Block Function
Special Text Key Functions
Section 7 - Printing .................. 15
Printing with Wide Carriage Printers
Option for 12 Inch Form Length
Printing Draft Copies with Epson LQ Printers
Printing Draft Copies with Toshiba 24 Pin Printers
Section 1 - Introduction 1
What's New in Version 2.1
FLODRAW 2.1 contains a number of new features that make
it more flexible as a diagramming tool. The major features
are described briefly below.
1. Template files (page 11).
Initialize new documents with a template file
that contains a skeleton diagram. The template
file is merged into your diagram when you
select the page format. The template file is
optional. You can set the option file to use the
template files or not. And you can override
the option on the page format screen.
2. Special characters (page 13).
Use 26 special characters on the Text Edit
screen with keys Ctrl A through Ctrl Z. You can
customize these characters to suit your own
needs. Use them for foreign alphabet characters
or small shapes.
3. Enhanced symbol menu (page 16).
The symbol menu has been improved to show small
symbols at 1/4 size or full size. The number of
symbols allowed in a library has been increased
to 144. To support the larger libraries, the symbol
menu now has keypresses to display forward,
backward, menu beginning, and menu end.
4. Wide carriage printer support (page 18).
Users with wide carriage printers can use the
first 132 columns in the large landscape page
format to print diagrams on 14.5 inch paper. The
option file contains a carriage width that you
can override at print time.
Introduction 2
5. A draft mode for Epson LQ printers (page 19).
A fast draft mode is now available for Epson LQ
printers. This mode compresses your diagram
slightly. If your diagram is not full length,
you can select a stretch option in this fast
mode to make the diagram more readable.
6. A 12 inch form option for European users (page 18).
This option was provided for European users who
use 12 inch forms instead of 11 inch forms.
You can set this option on the option file.
Note that this option does not change the size
of the diagram, just the form length that the
printer uses.
New Files Included with Version 2.1
COPYLIB.BAT is similar to LIBRARY.BAT except
that it works with libraries instead of symbols.
It provides an easy way to combine small
libraries into a large library.
FLODRAW.CHR is the FLODRAW system file that
contains the descriptions of 26 special
characters for the six normal size fonts and
3 small fonts.
FLODRAW.T#1 These files are the template files that can
FLODRAW.T#2 be used to initialize a new diagram. You
FLODRAW.T#3 can edit these files to suit your needs.
SPECIAL.CHR contains the pattern for FLODRAW.CHR
and instructions for customizing your own
version of FLODRAW.CHR.
DATAFLOW.LIB is a library of symbols used to draw
dataflow diagrams.
Introduction 3
The following library documentation files are new files
included on the library disk. These files are FLODRAW
diagrams that show the symbols in the libraries. The
files are named after the libraries they document.
DATAFLOW.01
ELECTRON.01 and ELECTRON.02
FLOCHART.01
HIPO.01
MISC.01
ORG.01
SMALLFLO.01
Updated Files Included with Version 2.1
FLODRAW.EXE is the FLODRAW 2.1 program. It requires
a minimum of 384k to run.
LIBRARY.BAT was modified with improved error checking.
DEMO was modified with minor corrections.
ELECTRON.LIB (a library of electrical symbols) replaces
ELECTRIC.LIB in previous versions. This
library has been revised and expanded.
ORG.LIB (a library of organization chart symbols)
was dropped with version 2.0 and has been
included with version 2.1.
SMALLFLO.LIB (a library of small flowchart symbols) was
dropped with version 2.0 and has been
included with version 2.1.
Section 2 - Installation 4
Use the following instructions instead of the installation
instructions in chapter 2 of the FLODRAW User Manual.
FLODRAW Distribution Disks
FLODRAW 2.1 is distributed on two 360k disks or one 720k
disk. The two 360k disks have the following names.
(1) The Program disk. This disk has all the files you
need to run the tutorials and create your own
flowchart diagrams.
(2) The Library disk. This disk has additional
libraries, library documentation files, library
utilities, and sample diagrams.
The single 720k disk has all the files contained on the
two 360k disks.
Installation 5
Using INSTALL.EXE
The program INSTALL.EXE is on the FLODRAW Library Disk. If
you have a 3.5" distribution disk, INSTALL.EXE is in the root
directory.
INSTALL guides the installation or upgrading of FLODRAW 2.1.
It is a series of menus and prompts that will copy the
FLODRAW 2.1 files from the distribution disks to your system.
INSTALL will first ask for information about your system.
Then it will guide you through the installation process.
INSTALL will show you which files it will copy, and it will
prompt you before copying the files.
The following procedure outlines the INSTALL process.
1. If you are installing or upgrading FLODRAW on a floppy
disk system, you will need several blank formated disks.
If you are installing, you will need three blank disks.
If you are upgrading, you will need your working program
disk, your working library disk, and a blank data disk.
2. After booting up your system, put the FLODRAW library
disk in drive A. This will be the source drive. You can
use any drive for the source drive, but for these
instructions, we'll assume that the source drive is
drive A.
3. Enter this command at the DOS prompt.
A:INSTALL
4. INSTALL will ask you if you are installing FLODRAW for
the first time or if you upgrading to FLODRAW 2.1.
Reply 1 if you are installing. Reply 2 if you are
upgrading.
The difference between install and upgrade is that INSTALL
will only copy required upgrade files when copying from
the FLODRAW Program Disk.
5. Install will ask for the source drive. Reply A.
Installation 6
6. Install will ask for the target drive. This is drive
that you will copy files to. Reply B if you have a
floppy system. Reply C if you have a hard disk. Again,
you can use any drive, but for these instructions we'll
assume the target drive is B.
7. INSTALL will ask if the target drive is a floppy disk
or a hard disk. Reply 1 if it is a hard disk. Reply 2
if it is a floppy disk.
If you reply 1, INSTALL will ask you for the directory
path. INSTALL assumes a directory path of \FLO. If you
are installing or upgrading to a different path than \FLO,
backspace the cursor and enter your path.
8. INSTALL will display a disk selection menu. Reply '1'
to copy files from the FLODRAW Program Disk.
INSTALL will prompt you for the FLODRAW Program Disk.
Put the FLODRAW Program Disk in drive A.
If you are upgrading to a floppy system, INSTALL will
also prompt you to put your working program disk in
drive B. If you are installing on floppy system, put
a blank disk in drive B. If you are upgrading on a
floppy system, put your working program disk in drive B.
If you are upgrading from a version prior to version 2.0,
INSTALL will rename OPTION.FIL to FLODRAW.OPT and
SYMBOL.LIB to FLODRAW.LIB.
9. INSTALL will copy the FLODRAW files in groups.
INSTALL will display all the files in the group
and ask you if you want to procede with the copy. You
can bypass any group by replying 'N' to the copy prompt.
The groups on the Program Disk are:
- the FLODRAW program and system files
- the FLODRAW tutorial files
Installation 7
The groups on the Library Disk are:
- the library utilities
- the libraries
- the library documentation files
- the sample diagram files
- the SPECIAL.CHR file
After copying all the groups on the FLODRAW Program Disk,
INSTALL will return you to the disk selection menu. Reply
'2' to copy the files on the FLODRAW Library Disk.
If you have a floppy disk system, INSTALL will prompt you
to put your working library disk in drive B at the same
time it prompts you to put the FLODRAW Library Disk in
drive A.
11. After INSTALL has copied the libraries, all the remaining
files are diagram files. If you have a floppy disk system,
INSTALL will prompt you to put a data disk in drive B. If
you have a hard disk, INSTALL will let you change the
directory path if you want to put your diagram files on
a separate directory.
12. After copying all the files on the library disk, INSTALL
will return you to the disk selection menu. Press ESC to
return to DOS.
This completes the installation or upgrade. Save the
FLODRAW distribution disks as backups.
Section 3 - Template Files 8
What Are Template Files?
A FLODRAW template file is a file that contains a skeleton
diagram that you want to use to initialize a new diagram.
When you select the page format for a new diagram,
FLODRAW will merge the template file into your empty
diagram.
For example, you may want all your diagrams to have a
description box in the upper left corner of the diagram.
The description box may contain a brief description, name of
the author, date, and page number. You can create a template
file that contains this skeleton description box. Each time
you create a new diagram, FLODRAW will merge the template
file into your diagram. This will help insure that all your
diagrams use the same skeleton description box.
FLODRAW recognizes one template file name for each of the
three page formats:
FLODRAW.T#1 for portrait diagrams
FLODRAW.T#2 for landscape diagrams
FLODRAW.T#3 for large landscape diagrams
If you are using template files, FLODRAW will look for the
template file in the current directory. If it can't find
the template file in the current directory, it will look in
the default directory if you have one. See page 5 in this
Update Manual for instructions on setting up a default
directory on your hard disk.
Using Template Files
You can set the option file to use template files as your
default procedure for new diagrams. Select J on the Setup
Option menu and follow the instructions on the template
option screen. You can select the Setup Option menu with F8
from the Entry menu. You can always override your default
procedure on the page format selection screen when you're
loading a new diagram.
Template Files 9
When you load a new diagram, FLODRAW will prompt you
for a page format. If your default procedure is to use template
files, the template file names will show on the right side
of the menu next to the corresponding page format. When you
select a page format, FLODRAW will load the template file.
If you want to override the default procedure for template
files, you can press F10 to toggle the template files on or
off. When you toggle the template files off, the template
file names are removed from the menu.
Creating Template Files
Three sample template files are included with FLODRAW 2.1
to show you how the template files work. You can edit these
files to create your own template designs. You can create
your own template files as long as you give them the
correct template file name.
Section 4 - Special Characters 10
Using Special Characters
The keys Ctrl A through Ctrl Z are used to put special
characters on your diagram in Text mode. The special
characters are defined in a file called FLODRAW.CHR
that FLODRAW loads at startup. A default set of
special characters is used if FLODRAW.CHR cannot
be found.
FLODRAW will look for FLODRAW.CHR in the current
directory. If FLODRAW can't find it in the current directory,
it will look in the default directory if you have one.
Note: FLODRAW will warn you if it can't find the special
character file. Just press any key to bypass the warning.
The special characters are available with the six normal
size fonts and the three small fonts. Special characters
included with FLODRAW are foreign alphabet characters
and small shapes like boxes and circles. You can see them
by pressing Ctrl A through Ctrl Z or by editing the file
SPECIAL.CHR.
Defining Your Own Special Characters
You can change the design of some or all the special
characters if you like. Use FLODRAW to edit the file
SPECIAL.CHR. This file contains a pattern that has all the
special characters and instructions for creating a new
FLODRAW.CHR file. You can edit each of the
characters in the pattern. When you have finished editing
the characters, save the contents of the pattern as a symbol
file called FLODRAW.CHR. Move FLODRAW.CHR to your
program disk or FLODRAW directory.
The pattern in SPECIAL.CHR is outlined by a box. When
you save the contents of the pattern as a symbol, you will
use the cursor to tell FLODRAW where the boundaries of the
symbol are. Don't include the box around the pattern as
part of the symbol.
Special Characters 11
The pattern has marking arrows to show you where to place
the cursor to show the boundaries of the symbol. You can
use the upper left corner as the first cursor location and
also as the midpoint of the symbol. After you save the
symbol FLODRAW.CHR, save the file SPECIAL.CHR since
it now has your updated pattern for special characters.
Now, exit FLODRAW, then run FLODRAW again to load the
special character file FLODRAW.CHR that you saved. Edit a
diagram and try your own special characters using Ctrl A
through Ctrl Z.
Section 5 - Libraries & Symbols 12
FLODRAW 2.1 has space for larger libraries with more
symbols, and symbol menu commands to make it easy to
handle larger symbol libraries. The symbol menu now supports
small symbols by displaying them full size or one fourth
size on the menu.
Symbol Libraries
FLODRAW will now accept libraries that are as large as
24,000 bytes. You can check the size of your library on your
DOS directory listing. If your library is larger than
24,000 bytes, FLODRAW will tell you it's too large to load.
You can have up to 144 symbols in each library. Although
it's more likely that you'll exceed the 24,000 byte limit
before you reach 144 symbols.
Since these enhancements encourage you to combine some of
your libraries, I've included a batch file called
COPYLIB.BAT that is similar to LIBRARY.BAT.
COPYLIB.BAT will combine up to 8 libraries into 1 library.
Use the following format for COPYLIB:
COPYLIB combined-library library-1 ... library-8
For example, suppose you want to combine your
ELECTRIC.LIB with your APPLIANC.LIB and
call the combined library ELECAPPL.LIB. You would enter
the following command:
COPYLIB ELECAPPL APPLIANC ELECTRIC
This command would give you a library called ELECAPPL
that had the symbols of both APPLIANC and ELECTRIC.
Of course, you could still use the batch file LIBRARY.BAT to
create the ELECAPPL library. But you would have to enter
every symbol that was in both the APPLIANC and ELECTRIC
libraries. So it would take you much longer.
Libraries & Symbols 13
Symbol Menu
In order to support the larger libraries, the symbol menu
now has keypresses to move you forward and backward on the
menu. When you have selected the symbol menu, the
following keypresses are available, but are not shown on the
menu. You can press Alt H to see the help screen if you forget
the keypresses.
Ctrl F10 - Backward menu browse
Ctrl Home - Go to beginning of symbol menu
Ctrl End - Go to end of symbol menu
The symbols in the symbol menu are normally shown reduced
to 1/16 their original size. Now, FLODRAW checks the size
of the symbol. If the symbol is small, up to 3 characters wide
and 2 characters high, FLODRAW will display the symbol full
size. If the symbol is up to 6 characters wide and 4
characters high, FLODRAW will display the symbol reduced
only to 1/4 size.
FLODRAW displays a size factor to the right of the symbol
function key so you can tell what the size of the actual
symbol will be. The size factors have the following
meaning.
1X - Full size
2X - 1/4 size
4X - 1/16 size (normal reduction)
Section 6 - Other Edit Enhancements 14
COPY/MOVE Option to Save Keypress
This option will save you a keypress when you do a block
copy or move on the Text edit screen. The block
COPY/MOVE function prompts you to move the
cursor to the upper left corner of the block before pressing
the function key. With this option set on, FLODRAW
assumes you have already moved the cursor to the upper left
corner before you started the block COPY/MOVE
function. And so the first prompt you get will be for the
lower right corner of your block. See option K on the
setup menu.
SMALL/BIG Block Function
These functions expand or reduce the contents of a block
that you define with the cursor. The BIG function
expands the size of the block 4 times. The SMALL function
reduces the size of the block to 1/4 its size. Note that
when you expand several times, you can reduce the same
number of times to get you back to where you started. But if
you reduce, you usually cannot expand back to the symbol
you started with.
Special Text Key Functions
Alt E erases the entire diagram. FLODRAW will prompt
you before erasing to make sure that you really want
to erase your diagram.
Alt J (try remembering J for join) tells FLODRAW
to superimpose the next symbol, merge, or copy function
instead of covering. Alt J does nothing itself, but
will provide a warning message that the next symbol
will superimpose (If you're in the symbol menu, this
warning message will be covered up by the menu line).
This function is useful when you don't want the
empty area of a symbol to blank information on your
diagram.
Section 7 - Printing 15
Printing with Wide Carriage Printers
FLODRAW supports two sizes of dot matrix printer carriages.
The standard carriage size is for 80 columns and prints on
8.5 inch paper. The wide carriage size is for 132 columns
and prints on 14.5 inch paper.
You can select the carriage size on the printer selection
screen by pressing the F2 key. The F2 key toggles the
carriage size between standard and wide carriage. Save your
selection on the option file by pressing F10.
You can override the carriage size at print time by pressing
F2 on the print screen. The F2 key on the print screen will
also toggle the carriage size between standard and wide
carriage.
If you select the wide carriage, use the large landscape
page format, and keep your diagram within the first 132
columns. If you exceed 132 columns, FLODRAW assumes you
want to print a 160 column wide document. And it will print
it on two 8.5"X11" inch portrait format pages. FLODRAW will
show you the 132 column boundary on the text edit screen to
help you keep your diagram within 132 columns.
Option for 12 Inch Form Length
The standard form length for European users is 12 inches
instead of 11 inches. Option F on the Setup Option menu
provides a menu of miscellaneous printer options. Selecting
the F3 option provides a menu to select form length of
either 11 inches (F1) or 12 inches (F2) when using a dot
matrix printer. Select F2 to force the printer to handle 12
inch long forms.
Printing 16
Printing Draft Copies with Epson LQ Printers
If you have an Epson LQ printer, you can select either a
fast or slow print speed.
The slow speed is a FLODRAW emulation of an Epson FX 80
and provides a good quality print, but at a very slow print
speed.
The fast speed is the Epson LQ printer emulation of a 9 pin
printer. Since the character size on the LQ printer is taller
than the character size on the 9 pin printer, FLODRAW
compresses the print lines to fit them on one page. When
compressed, the text on your diagram may be hard to read.
FLODRAW will not compress the print lines on 12 inch forms.
If your diagram does not take up the full page length, you
may select a stretch option that does not compress the
print lines. FLODRAW will show you a boundary line on the
Text Edit screen near the bottom of the page. If your
diagram does not exceed the boundary and you have selected
the stretch option, FLODRAW will print your diagram without
compressing the lines. If you exceed the boundary,
FLODRAW must compress the lines to fit the diagram on
one page.
To use the stretch option with the fast print speed, select
F on the Setup Options menu for the miscellaneous printer
options. Then select F2 to toggle the LQ fast print stretch
option on or off. If you want to make this a permanent
option, when you return to the Setup Option screen press F10
to save your selection on the option file.
Printing Draft Copies with Toshiba 24 Pin Printers
If you have a Toshiba 24 pin printer with IBM ProPrinter
emulation, you can use the IBM ProPrinter emulation to
print your diagrams at a faster print speed.
Change the FLODRAW printer option to "IBM ProPrinter -
bold strike". Then change your printer to the IBM ProPrinter
emulation mode.
Directory of PC-SIG Library Disk #2020
Volume in drive A has no label
Directory of A:\
FILE2020 TXT 1851 1-24-90 12:28p
FLODRAW DOC 117537 11-11-89 2:11p
GO BAT 38 10-19-87 3:56p
GO TXT 540 1-05-90 4:00p
MANUAL BAT 319 11-11-89 2:11p
READ_ME 1094 11-11-89 2:11p
UPDATE DOC 31458 11-11-89 2:11p
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