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PC-SIG Diskette Library (Disk #2209)
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Information about “DSKRAK”
Quickly organizes your software into a professional library with fast
access to information about specific files or programs.
DSKrak manages your software by dividing your programs into "trays" of
diskettes in the same way that you would use a tray to store disks.
Each disk in a particular tray can be assigned a number from 0-999.
Each record, which you can browse or print, contains a wide variety of
important information that you can use to find your software. As well
as tray and disk number, add title, comments, user-definable
categories, and the total number of bytes available on a particular
disk.
Create a comprehensive printed index listing for use outside the
program. Sort by number, category, or file name. When you're looking
for that specific program, or want to see exactly what game or utility
programs you've got, you'll have complete information at your
fingertips.
FILE2209.TXT
Disk No: 2209
Disk Title: DSKrak
PC-SIG Version: S2
Program Title: DSKrak!
Author Version: 3.00
Author Registration: $24.95
Special Requirements: 384K RAM. Hard drive recommended.
A program that quickly organizes your software into a professional
library which allows fast access to information about a particular data
file or program.
DSKrak manages your software on floppy disk by dividing your programs
into "trays" of diskettes in much the same way that you would normally
use a tray to store disks. Each disk in a particular tray can be
assigned a number from 0-999. Each record, which you can browse or
print, contains a wide variety of important information that you can
use to find your software. In addition to tray and disk number, you can
add title, comments, user definable categories, and the total number of
bytes avaliable on a particular disk.
DSKrak can create a comprehensive printed index listing for use outside
the program. It can sort by number, category, or file name. So when
you're looking for that specific program, or want to see exactly what
game or utility programs you've got, you'll have complete information at
your fingertips.
PC-SIG
1030D East Duane Avenue
Sunnyvale Ca. 94086
(408) 730-9291
(c) Copyright 1989 PC-SIG, Inc.
GO1.TXT
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║ <<<< Disk #2209 DSK-RAK! >>>> ║
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║ ║
║ To install the program to the hard drive, type: HDINSTAL (press Enter) ║
║ ║
║ To start the program, type: GO (press Enter) ║
║ ║
║ To print the documenation, type: COPY MANUAL.DOC PRN (press enter) ║
╚═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
MANUAL.DOC
* * * * * * * * *
Disk Rak
Diskette Labeling/Cataloging Management System
(c)opyright 1989,1990 by SOFTreat>_
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Distributed via SHAREWARE
Version 3.00
Users Manual
User support requested
* * * *
- - - - N O T I C E - - - -
This software has been distributed via SHAREWARE and
subsequently SOFTreat>_ and/or it's employee's assumes NO
LIABILITY for it's use. The user accepts ALL
RESPONSIBILITY
before, during, and after it's use. Disk Rak may be freely
copied and distributed provided that all associated files
in their original form are included and that no financial
gains are incurred over and above legitimate distribution
costs.
* * INTRODUCTION * * Page 1
Welcome to Disk Rak! If you have a computer then you also have
a collection of software for use on the computer, and this
collection is probably growing at an unmanageable rate. Some
time along the way all this software is going to become a
'burden' to manage, at least in a way that will allow for easy
access to a particular file/program when it is needed. Disk Rak
can help you very quickly to organize your software into a
professional library that allows quick access to information
about a particular data file/program. Gone is the 'hassle' of
flipping thru numerous, hand labeled, diskettes every time you
want your software.
Disk Rak now includes support for AVERY # 4241 2-3/4" x 2-3/4"
(3.5" disk) label stock as well as AVERY # 4240 4-3/4" x 1-1/4"
(5-1/4" disk) label stock. These labels may be found at most office
supply stores. Disk Rak still supports the standard 3-1/2" x
15/16" labels that are available everywhere.
Disk Rak manages your software on floppy by dividing your
programs into 'trays' of diskettes in much the same way that
you would normally use a diskette tray to store disks. Each
tray may be assigned any number from 0-999 with each tray's number
being unique in that no other tray may have the same number. Each
tray may contain up to 1000 diskettes that are each numbered from
0-999. No other diskette in the tray can carry the same
number as another in the same tray. Each diskette in the trays may
be labeled with specific information provided by you during the
cataloging process. If you are labeling the diskettes using either
of the AVERY disk labels, an alphabetized listing of all the files
included on the disk will be printed on the label as well.
The 3.5" disk label will allow up to 66 filenames per label and the
5-1/4" disk label will allow up to 35 filenames printed.
To provide as much information to the user as possible, the label
contains the following data as well....
DISK #......... The numerical position assigned to this disk in
the current tray.
TRAY #......... The current tray number this disk is assigned to.
TITLE ......... User supplied data typically describing the disk
contents.
CATEGORY ...... User supplied 'category' assigned to this disk that
typically describes a 'type' of software.
SUBJECT ....... User supplied 'subject' assigned to this disk that
is typically an extension to the category assignment
that further groups this disk into a sub-category.
VOLUME ID ..... The volume label of the diskette.
BYTES USED .... The amount of bytes USED on the diskette.
BYTES FREE .... The remaining amount of disk storage in bytes.
DATE .......... The date the diskette was cataloged.
COMMENT ....... A descriptive line about the disk and/or contents.
All of this data conveniently located on the label provides an
excellent summary of the diskette contents that is invaluable when
browsing through the diskettes.
Page 2
To make it easy to locate your software, Disk Rak provides the user
with comprehensive index reports. These reports reflect a collective
summary of all the diskettes cataloged in all the trays and provide
you with a means to locate your software quickly.
The results, are a wonderfully organized software library,
that is professional looking, is easily updated and maintained
and providing you with a wealth of information WHEN you need
it! After all, your software did COST you money, so why
'fiddle' with your diskettes the old way and waste your time
and RISK forgetting about or LOSING pieces of valuable
software you once had!
* * HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS * * Page 3
In order for Disk Rak to operate properly on your system, your
computer will need to meet the necessary hardware
requirements.
Minimum Hardware Requirements
1> IBM PC, XT, or AT Compatible computer
2> Hard disk drive and 1 floppy disk drive
3> 384K DRAM
4> Monochrome, CGA, EGA, or VGA Video adapter
5> Epson, Toshiba, Brother, or Tandy compatible Printer
* * The Disk Rak DISTRIBUTION DISKETTE * * Page 4
The Disk Rak distribution diskette contains the Disk Rak program
and it's associated files. It is suggested that you install
Disk Rak on your HARD DRIVE and/or make a backup copy of the program
diskette to guard against accidental damage or loss.
Making a BACKUP of Disk Rak
1> Turn on your computer and obtain the 'DOS' prompt.
2> Obtain a BLANK and preferably FORMATTED diskette.
3> Insert the BLANK diskette into Drive B:
4> At the A> prompt type ...
(2-drive system)
DISKCOPY A: B: and press <ENTER>
(1-drive system)
DISKCOPY A: A: and press <ENTER>
Follow the 'DOS' prompts assuming that your Disk Rak
distribution diskette is the 'SOURCE' diskette and your BLANK
diskette is the 'TARGET' diskette.
After completion, you will have a working copy of Disk Rak on
TARGET diskette. Label the diskette as your Disk Rak
'working diskette' and use this disk to run Disk Rak. Store
your original Disk Rak program diskette in a safe place.
Installing Disk Rak to a HARD DRIVE
1> Turn your computer on and obtain the 'DOS' prompt.
2> Insert your Disk Rak program diskette into DRIVE A:
3> At the A> prompt type ...
HDINSTAL and press <ENTER>
Disk Rak will begin installation to your hard drive in a sub-
directory named 'DSKrak'.
Before You Begin .... Page 5
Have your diskettes available that you wish to catalog, and
understand with some thought, how you wish to organize your
software. For instance, pre-define various CATEGORIES and
SUBJECTS that will adequately cover your different software
types. Try not to have TOO many or be TOO SPECIFIC with a
category or subject. The goal here is to allow Disk Rak to
GROUP types of software together that are similar in nature to
the other software in the same group so that retrieval at a
later time will be easy. Having too many or making the
definition too restrictive will counter this effort.
To run Disk Rak ....
At the C> prompt type ...
cd DSKRAK and press <ENTER>
At the C:\DSKRAK> prompt type ...
GO and press <ENTER>
Disk Rak will begin to execute by displaying the title screen.
To continue, press ANY KEY and the Disk Rak main menu will
appear.
* * INITIAL SETTINGS * * Page 6
The first time you run Disk Rak you will need to select your
printer type and the type of label you intend to use. The current
printer selected is displayed in the upper left of the screen window
border along with the current label type. The default printer selected
is Epson with the default label being 'standard label' (mailing labels).
If you have a different printer than what is selected, select from the
main menu 'SETUP'. This selection will bring up another menu where you
may select either 'printer type' or 'label type'. Selecting the printer
option will allow you to choose a different printer type. If your
printer IS NOT shown, then try a selection that is 'CLOSE' to the
printer type that you have. If this does not work properly and you are
a REGISTERED user, SOFTreat>_ can install YOUR printer type upon
request. Selecting the label option will allow you to choose the
preferred label type from the menu. As you make these selections, you
will note that the current printer and label information at the top of
the window is updated to reflect you choices.
Cataloging diskettes requires that the database files be present to do
so. The first time you try to catalog a diskette Disk Rak will find that
there is NO database available and will ask you if you want to create
one. Disk Rak allows you to locate your Disk Rak database anywhere on the
system you desire. Check the lower left screen border for the 'current
database path' and decide if this is acceptable or not. If it
is not, select the 'DATABASE UTILITIES' function from the 'MAIN MENU' to
set the desired database path. The path displayed will change
accordingly once a valid pathname has been entered. Disk Rak will use
this pathname to create the database in the chosen path. Once selected
Disk Rak will remember this path, until a new one is entered at a later
time.
* * ABOUT the Disk Rak SCREENS * * Page 7
The Disk Rak screen is composed mainly of '3' sections.
They are ....
1> Information line
Located at the very TOP of the screen, this line
displays certain information pertaining to the
database, such as CURRENT MODE, CURRENT DATABASE
and the number of records in the database. This
will only be visible during various database
operations when the database is OPENED.
2> The main viewing screen ...
This is where most of the work is accomplished
during the use of Disk Rak and is located beneath the
Information line . Take particular note to the
upper border and the lower left border. The
currently selected printer and label is displayed in the
upper border and the current DATABASE path is
displayed in the lower left. Pop-up menus and data
entry windows are displayed within the border.
3> The status/command line at the bottom ...
This area provides prompts, error messages, and
user input. It is important to train yourself to
keep an eye in this area thru-out the use of
Disk Rak as important operational information is
displayed here when and as it is needed.
* * MAKING SELECTIONS FROM a MENU * * Page 8
Throughout the use of Disk Rak, various 'POP-UP' menus will
appear that will allow you to make a selection to perform
various functions, depending upon what you wish to accomplish
at the particular time. Each menu can be identified by a
'highlighted' menu bar with a various number of selections.
Each selection has a 'letter' of a different 'color' which may
be used as a 'HOT KEY' selector. Pressing the 'colored
letter' key will immediately select that function. The menu
bar may be moved up or down by the use of the 'UParrow' and
'DNarrow' keys. Also, the 'HOME' key moves the menu bar to
the first selection and likewise, the 'END' key moves the menu
bar to the last selection. Placing the menu bar on an item
within the menu and pressing the <ENTER> key, will select the
corresponding function. Selecting RETURN from a menu will
'return' you to a previous menu.
* * DATA ENTRY and the FIELD EDITOR * * Page 9
Fields that accept user input are indicated by the '[' and ']'
characters displayed to the right of a field 'title'. The
maximum length of data that may be entered into any field
is the area shown by a series of '_' characters placed between
the '[' and ']' characters in the field. Data may be entered
(left justified) AFTER and BEFORE these characters. Typing
characters to the end of the field and continuing will result
in only the 'last' character in the field accepting the new
character. The '1st' character in each field is automatically
CAPITALIZED to ease typing constraints and produces uniform
and well looking output.
Commands Available During Field Entry
<DEL> ...
Pressing this key will delete the entire
contents of the field and position the cursor to
the start of the data field.
<BACKSPACE> ...
Provided that data is present in the field,
pressing this key will delete the character from
the current cursor position and backspace the
cursor '1' cursor position. If characters are
positioned to the right of the cursor, pressing
backspace will delete the current character and
'pull' the remaining string of characters back
one cursor position.
< <- > ... (Left Arrow)
Positions the cursor to the left '1' character
position. Non-destructive.
< -> > ... (Right Arrow)
Positions the cursor to the right '1' character
position up to the last character in the data
string. Non-destructive.
<TAB> ...
Advances to the NEXT data field. Data entered
in the field when pressed will be lost.
<UParrow> ...
Advances to the PREVIOUS data field.
<DNarrow> ...
Advances to the NEXT data field.
<ENTER> ... Page 10
Advances to the NEXT data field and accepts the
entered data.
* * DATABASE UTILITIES * *
Disk Rak 'Database Utilities Rak' menu provides you with '6'
functions that handle operations directly involved with the
database files. The following provides information on each of
these functions. To obtain the 'Database Utilities Rak' menu
go to the 'DSKrak Main' menu and select 'Database Utilities'.
<Create New Index File> ...
Selecting this function will create a 'NEW' index file provided
an existing database file exists. Disk Rak maintains a series of
key fields composed of various data items within the database
file that allow Disk Rak to function as it does. These 'keys'
are written and updated 'every time' a new diskette is
cataloged and therefore is always up-to-date. However, there
may be times when the index file may have been damaged or even
lost, and without this file, access to your information would
be impossible. A new 'index file' may be created as long as
the dskrak.db file is present. The file 'DSKrak.idx' does not
have to exist in order for this function to work.
When to use ...
1> If you receive an error 'INDEX FILE GARBLED'.
2> If you receive the message 'DATABASE does not EXIST'
DO YOU WISH TO CREATE? <Y/N>, but the database file
is KNOWN to exist.
3> If there has been a substantial number of DELETIONS
throughout the use of Disk Rak.
4> If you have 'LOST' the index file.
NOTE: During the process of creating a new index file, THE
SYSTEM SHOULD NOT BE TURNED OFF. Allow the process to finish
once it has been started. Creation of the new index file
generally takes little time.
<Rebuild Data File> ...
This function will 'rebuild' an existing data file and it's
effect is to compress the datafile into it's smallest form.
During the process of utilizing Disk Rak, you will undoubtedly
'DELETE' previously cataloged records such as in updating a
diskette that has had it's contents changed from a previous
cataloging. Deleting records creates 'holes' in the database
and is natural. Disk Rak does try to minimize the holes by using
Page 11
as much of the free space as possible when making new entries
into the data file, however, it is not always possible to fill
in all the holes because of the randomness of the new data.
Therefore, 'Rebuilding' the data file will eliminate these
holes and thus have the effect of compressing the datafile.
Also the data in the newly created file will be organized by
key and thus will aid in record retrieval. Use this function
when you have had a large number of deletions. NOTE: This
function can take some time to complete, depending on the speed
of your computer and the SIZE of the datafile. Once the
process has been started, it SHOULD NOT BE INTERRUPTED. Also,
this function WILL NOT restore a previously LOST datafile. It
is always IMPORTANT to maintain proper BACKUPS of your
datafiles as it is with any other database or program. Failure
to do so can result in a LOSS OF DATA.
<Set new path for Database> ...
This function allows you to enter the 'path' including the
drive designator where YOU wish the database files to reside.
The current path to the database is ALWAYS displayed in the
lower left border of the main viewing screen as a reminder.
Disk Rak will always remember the LAST path entered from session
to session. This function should be selected BEFORE you start
your first cataloging session. As a default, Disk Rak will use
the default drive and path if not selected.
NOTE: You may select any valid DRIVE and/or pathname. If the
path DOES NOT EXIST, Disk Rak will CREATE it for you
automatically, so be careful and sure of what is entered for
the PATH.
<Create a NEW database> ...
This function allows you to create a NEW database in the
currently selected database path. If an EXISTING database
resides in the current database path, it WILL BE DESTROYED!
Be careful when using this function as you can easily LOSE a
previous datafile and ALL of it's DATA and it won't be
recoverable.
* * PREVIEWING DISK CONTENTS * * Page 12
Disk Rak provides you with the capability to 'preview' a disk and
it's contents BEFORE the actual cataloging process is
completed. This gives you the opportunity to examine the disk
closely and even MODIFY the disk thru the utilization of the
'COPY', 'MOVE' and 'DELETE' options. You may also use a
'FILTER' for examining ONLY specific file types on the diskette
or drive. To select this function you must be at the 'Diskette
Cataloging Information' data entry window. From the 'Disk Rak
MAIN' menu select 'Catalog a Diskette' and the data window will
appear. Notice on the 'status/command' line the following ...
"Enter Diskette Label Info .. <CRTL-P>review Disk contents
<ESC> cancel"
Normally, from within this data window, you would enter
specific information about the diskette that you are about to
catalog. However, it is impossible to always KNOW before hand
what exactly DOES reside on the diskette and therefore it would
be very helpful to be able to EXAMINE the disk contents at this
point before continuing on.
To 'preview' a diskette press the CTRL key and hold down while
pressing the letter 'P' key. Once activated, the
'status/command' line will prompt you to enter a 'FILTER'. As
an example, suppose we have a diskette and all that we are
interested in viewing on the disk are the files ending in
'EXE'. To do this, press the 'DEL' key as the default path and
filter is always 'A:\*.*'. Now enter the NEW filter, such as
"A:\*.EXE" and press <ENTER>. Once a FILTER has been selected, Disk Rak
will ask you to select the type of 'SORT' order preferred. You may have
the files viewed in order of 'Filename', 'File Extension', 'File Size',
'File Date', or 'File Time'. Make the preferred sort selection and
Disk Rak will prompt you to insert a disk in Drive A:, so be sure that you
have done this. Press <ENTER> and Disk Rak will read the disk
utilizing the FILTER that you provided and will display all the
files found meeting the requirements of the filter in the order of the
selected 'SORT'. You may change the order of the 'SORT' at anytime by
simply selecting <ALT-S>. The Sort selection menu will again appear.
After selection of the new sort order, Disk Rak will read the disk contents
once again utilizing the FILTER and re-display the contents in the window
in the new sort order. If you wish to CHANGE the FILTER, simply press
the <ESC> key and Disk Rak will return you to the 'data entry window' where
you may re-initiate the process once again utilizing a different
filter.
Now, that we have a directory listing of the diskette we may
examine the list by utilizing the following keys ...
<UParrow> ...
Move UP one item in the list.
<DNarrow> ...
Move down on item in the list.
<PGup> ...
Advance the list up ONE page.
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<PGdn> ...
Advance the list down ONE page.
<END> ...
Move to the LAST page in the list.
<HOME> ...
Move to the FIRST page in the list.
If the disk contains SUB-DIRECTORIES, then the directories will
be listed as <DIR>. The VOLUME LABEL, if present will be
indicated by <VOLID>. If you are viewing the contents of a
SUB-DIRECTORY, then the 'parent' directory will be listed as
<PARENT> in the listing. To explore the diskette further and
sub-directories ARE listed in the directory, we may place the
menu bar on a <DIR> item in the list and press the <ENTER> key.
Disk Rak will now step INTO the DIR that was selected and read
it's directory and provide a new listing in the window. To
step back OUT of a sub-directory, move the menu bar to one of
the <PARENT> listings and press the <ENTER> key. Disk Rak will
step to the <PARENT> directory and provide you with a directory
listing of that parent directory. If NO <PARENT> items are shown
in the listing, then your are currently viewing the ROOT directory and
are at the TOP of the TREE. With this capability, you may navigate
freely around the entire disk to learn all there is about the disk
contents.
Disk Rak also provides the ability to change the contents of the
current disk thru the use of the 'DELETE', 'MOVE', and 'COPY'
commands. The following describes their proper usage.
<DELETE> ...
To 'Delete' a file listed in the directory, place the menu-bar
on the desired filename in the list and press the 'F1' function
key. Disk Rak will prompt you as to whether or not to proceed.
Answer 'y' if you WANT TO DELETE the file named in the window.
Press 'n' if you WANT TO ABORT this selection. If you select
'y' it WILL BE DELETED so be careful and sure or your
selection.
<COPY> ...
You may copy a selected file from one location to another by
placing the menu bar on the desired file and pressing the 'F2'
key. Once selected, Disk Rak will prompt you for a new path.
Enter the new path and press <ENTER>. You may also use this
function to 'DUPLICATE' a file using a different name by
entering a NEW FILENAME when prompted to enter the DESTINATION.
<MOVE> ...
The move function will allow you to take the selected item from
the list and 'MOVE' it to the desired DESTINATION. You may
also RENAME it by entering a different filename in the
destination pathname. NOTE: This is a 'MOVE' function and
therefore will ERASE the original copy once the new COPY has
been made.
Page 14
Disk Rak provides facilities that allow you to 'Jump to DOS' or to
temporarily suspend operations and run another program without leaving
Disk Rak to do so. To access these functions do the following ...
<F8> .... Jump to 'DOS'
Selecting the <F8> key will temporarily halt Disk Rak and place you at
the system command prompt. You may perform any DOS command function
or even run another program if desired. This is helpful, if you
need 'format' floppy diskette or read a .DOC file, etc. To return
to Disk Rak when finished, simply type EXIT and press <ENTER> and you
will return to Disk Rak where you had left off.
<F10> ... Execute (Run) program
You may execute a program directly from within Disk Rak and pass any
command line arguments to the executable program if desired. This
is helpful in the case of viewing ARCHIVED file contents by
executing the appropriate archiving program with the required
command line arguments. When the executing program has terminated,
control will be returned to Disk Rak.
* * CATALOGING a DISKETTE * * Page 15
To start your cataloging process, from the 'DSKrak MAIN' menu,
select 'Catalog a Diskette'. The 'Diskette Cataloging
Information' data window will appear. This window contains
important information that will be stored to the database AND
printed to the label for the particular diskette and is also
the beginning step in cataloging a diskette. To RETURN to the
'DSKrak MAIN' menu you may press the <ESC> at anytime. Doing
this ABORTS the cataloging process and any label information that
may have been entered will be discarded.
The following describes the various fields in the window for
which data is to be entered.
<This Diskette Number> ...
This field will contain THE number you will assign to this
particular diskette. Only ONE diskette PER TRAY may carry this
number. Entering a number that is currently being used in the
database tells Disk Rak that you are planning to up-date this
diskette in the catalog and will inform you of this. If you
wish to up-date this diskette then follow the prompts from the
'status/command' line otherwise, if this is a new cataloging,
then select an UNUSED number of the NEXT sequence in the TRAY.
Disk Rak, as an aid in sequentially numbering your diskettes,
AUTO-INCREMENTS this field after every successful cataloging so
that the NEXT diskette number is READY and already entered for
you to start off the next cataloging. You may, however,
override this by pressing the <DEL> key and entering the
desired number. This field is valid for numbers 0-999 and will
accept NUMERIC DATA only.
<Tray Number> ...
You may assign this cataloging to any one of 1000 trays (0-999)
and it also accepts NUMERIC data only. During a normal
cataloging process, Disk Rak assumes that you will be cataloging
by TRAY and therefore carries the previously entered TRAY #
over to the next cataloging session.
<Diskette Title> ...
You may assign a 'title' of your choice to the diskette which
will inform you at a glance as to the nature of this diskette.
Use descriptive wording as much as possible so that a 'good'
image is passed to when read. This field may be entered in one
of '2' ways. First, If you would like your title to STAND-OUT
and be easily read, then choose a title that is '16' characters
or less (indicated by the '^' character symbol in the field).
Doing this will cause Disk Rak to print the TITLE in DOUBLE WIDTH
on the label. If this is NOT preferred, simply select a title
that is longer than '16' characters. NOTE: This field will
SELF-CENTER when printed to the label.
<Category> ...
Enter a descriptive 'label' which signifies a type of software
in this field, such as GAMES, ENTERTAINMENT, HDUTILITIES,
PROGRAMMING, WORD PROCESS, etc.
Page 16
<Subject> ...
Enter a description that further divides the CATEGORY into
significant groups, such as, ARCADE, DATA, LETTERS, SOURCE
FILES, etc.
<Comment> ...
Enter a descriptive comment about the diskette up to 50
characters long.
NOTE: Disk Rak places the SYSTEM DATE in the bottom of the data
window for reference as this date will be placed into the
database and on the diskette label as a date stamp. If you
wish to use a DIFFERENT date or the one shown is incorrect,
then you must select 'Run DOS shell' from the 'Main Menu'or exit
Disk Rak to the system prompt where you may change the system date
on your computer using the DATE command.
Once all of the fields have been entered press the 'F1' key.
Disk Rak will prompt you for a FILTER for use in collecting the
desired data from the diskette. Use the FILTER wisely as in
many cataloging's, there are quite a few program files that
would not be of interest to you in your library, but will
consume a tremendous amount of storage space in your database
causing a large database file. For example, many programs
utilize *.HLP files and are there to simply support the main
*.EXE or *.COM program run file and would not be of interest to
show up in Index listings. Your choice.
After entering the FILTER, Disk Rak will read the diskette and
summarize the information it has found and the 'DISK
INFORMATION' window will appear. Study it carefully for correct
information and answer the prompt in the 'status/command' line
appropriately. If you answer 'n', you will return to the 'Diskette
Cataloging Information' data entry window where you may try again or
ultimately end the session entirely.
Selecting 'y', Disk Rak will provide you with the opportunity to
print your 'LABEL' now if you like. Selecting <P> will cause
the label to be printed, <L> to print ONLY an alignment pattern
for label alignment prior to printing the actual label, or <N>
to continue WITHOUT printing the label. Be sure that you have
loaded the printer with the CORRECT label type that has been
selected for use.
Disk Rak allows you to save your cataloging information in '1' of
'2' ways, ie. , SUMMARY or DETAIL. Selecting SUMMARY, is the
most economical and fastest method, but provides your database
with the least amount of information about the diskette.
Selecting DETAIL provides you with the maximum amount of
diskette information and is the basis for many of the printed
reports, but the database file size will GROW considerably. A
proper tradeoff is the proper use of the FILTER. This allows
you to gather information (files) from the diskette that are of
most importance, not including the unwanted files in the
database, yet still providing the database with the information
that will be useful.
Page 17
If selecting DETAIL, Disk Rak also provides you with a means to
comment each file as it is about to be saved. This provides a
way to describe EACH disk entry if need be and will appear in many of the
index reports. Each file contained on the diskette (selected by the
FILTER chosen) will be displayed in a window as it is being read. During
the automatic DETAIL cataloging process, information about the file
is read such as, it's FILE SIZE, CREATION DATE & TIME, and it's
ATTRIBUTE.
When all selected information has been read and saved, Disk Rak
informs you ...
"Cataloging of this diskette has been completed ... Press any
key to continue"
At which time you will return to the 'Diskette cataloging
Information' data entry window ready for the NEXT diskette to
catalog.
* * THUMBING thru the RAK * * Page 18
To view your database records ON SCREEN, select 'Thumb thru
Rak' from the 'DSKrak MAIN' menu. The 'Record Selection
Criteria' menu will appear. You may view your database by one
of '4' methods. They are ...
<Disk and Tray Number> ...
Allows you to access your library by DISK # and TRAY #. Enter
desired DISK and TRAY numbers and Disk Rak will search the
database for a matching entry. If NO match is found, then
Disk Rak will inform you and ask if you want the 'closest' match.
Selecting 'y' will call the closest matching record to the
screen.
<Category of Diskette> ...
Entering a specific 'category' allows you to browse thru the
file viewing all records that fall into your specified
'category'.
<Subject of Diskette> ...
Entering a specific 'Subject' will select only those records
containing the specified subject.
<Filename> ...
To locate a specific 'file' in your library, enter the desired
'filename' and only those that match or come close will be
viewed.
Once a record has been displayed, you have several options.
They are ...
<E>dit ...
This will allow you to 'edit' certain fields of the current record
displayed.
<D>elete ...
Selecting 'D' will DELETE the current record. If this
was a DETAIL cataloging, then ALL files assigned to this
record will be deleted as well. This will open the referenced
DISK # for the shown TRAY for future cataloging.
<N>ext ...
Selecting 'N' will display the NEXT record in the
database until EOF (end of file) has been reached.
<M>atch ...
Selecting 'M' will search for the NEXT match in the
database up to the EOF.
Page 19
<P>revious ...
Selecting 'P' will callup the PREVIOUS record in the
database up to the BOF (beginning of file).
p<R>int ...
Selecting 'R' will display a menu that gives you the option
of either printing the entire record and it's contents, printing
a label for the diskette, printing an alignment pattern for the
label, or to cancel the operation.
<Home> ...
Selecting the 'HOME' key will display the FIRST record
in the database.
<End> ...
Selecting the 'END' key will display the LAST record
in the database.
<ESC> ...
Pressing the <ESC> key will EXIT you to the 'Record
Selection Criteria' menu.
* * LABEL UTILITIES * * Page 20
In addition to the diskette cataloging capabilities, Disk Rak
provides you with the ability to print your diskette labels all
at once, only selected labels, or do backup labels.
To enter the 'Print Label Menu', select 'Label Utilities' from
the 'DSKrak MAIN' menu. The label utilities menu will appear
with the following selections ...
<Cataloged Diskette Labels by Date> ...
Select this function when you desire to print all labels on a
specific 'date'. This is useful when you have cataloged a
series of diskettes in a day's time and you now want to print
ONLY those labels on that day's date. NOTE: You must enter the
date specifically, ie., 10/12/89 and not 101289. Disk Rak will
remind you if need be.
<Cataloged Diskette Labels by TRAY> ...
Select this function if you wish to print ALL the labels for
the diskettes in a specific TRAY #.
<Backup Diskette Labels> ...
Disk Rak provides a way to provide you with labels for your
diskettes used in the 'BACKUP' process. Selecting this
function will display the 'Backup Label Info' data entry
window. You will be prompted to enter a 'SERIES TITLE' for
identification of the backup diskettes. This field will print
DOUBLE-WIDE if you enter 16 or less characters. Provided also
are fields to describe the 'path' used in the backup and a
comment up to 50 characters in length to further describe the
nature of the backup series.
Disk Rak allow you to enter the 'number' of disks involved in the
backup and will print exactly that number, EACH labeled as
diskette 1 of 6, 2 of 6, etc. depending upon the number you
have entered.
<Print Label Alignment> ...
Selecting this function will print a TEST PATTERN for use in
aligning your '1' UP mailing label stock in your printer.
* * INDEX REPORTS * * Page 21
To provide QUICK, EASY and OFFLINE access to your newly created
Software Library, Disk Rak provides a means for printing a set of
comprehensive Index reports that may be used for lookup of
those wanted files when needed. It is suggested that a master
index be kept up to date with the current database(s) for easy
and accurate reference. To obtain the printed reports, select
'Index Reports' form the 'DSKrak MAIN' menu. The 'Reports
Menu' will appear with '6' options to choose from.
They are ...
<Diskette Detail Listing> ...
This report will print ALL of the diskette catalogues in the
database, include both summary and detail. For use as an
overall look into the database. This printout is indexed by
DISK # and TRAY #.
<Tray Index Listing/search> ...
This option will allow an Index to be Printed by TRAY only. If
you wish a complete Index listing by TRAY # select this option.
You may also Print ALL trays by leaving the Field blank when
entering the Tray number.
<Filename Index Listing/search> ...
Use this option when you want an index listing by FILENAME.
You may leave the field blank to select ALL or you may enter
the EXACT filename and only those records containing the
filename will be printed. For instance, if you would like to
find all DISKs and TRAYs that contain a file starting with the
letters FR, then simply enter 'FR' in the field. Only those
files will be printed.
<Category Index Listing/search> ...
To produce an Index by 'CATEGORY' select this function. This
will show you where all DISKs reside that fall under the
specified 'category' that you have entered. Leaving the field
blank, will produce an Index in ASCENDING order by 'CATEGORY'
of all categories.
<Subject Index Listing/search> ...
Selecting this option will provide a means for finding any item
in the database that was grouped under a specific 'SUBJECT' in
ascending order. For specific 'subject's, enter only the
desired subject, otherwise, leaving the field blank will select
all.
<Title Index Listing/search> ...
To produce an Index sorted on disk 'TITLE' use this function.
All catalogues will be printed in ASCENDING order by TITLE.
Good if you can only remember the 'title' you gave a diskette
and want to find it quickly.
Page 22
It is hoped that Disk Rak will serve you well and help you in maintaining a
processional, well maintained library of all your software on diskette.
User suggestions are welcome and invited. Disk Rak is distributed via
shareware and our only support is thru your support. Our modest
registration fee of $24.95 will help us to continue to support Disk Rak and
to introduce NEW products into the marketplace for all to share.
Considerable effort went into the production of this software and your
support will certainly be appreciated. This manual is available in
typeset upon registration as well as telephone support, the most recent
version of Disk Rak, along with our continued support toward your
satisfaction.
To register, please include the printed order form available from the
DSKrak 'Main Menu', include your check or money order and mail to ..
SOFTreat>_
Rt. 2, Box 67-S
Youngsville, NC 27596
Thank you .....
Directory of PC-SIG Library Disk #2209
Volume in drive A has no label
Directory of A:\
HDINSTAL EXE 9319 8-07-90 5:17p
DSKRK300 EXE 278409 8-07-90 5:14p
GO BAT 42 8-07-90 5:18p
MANUAL DOC 43887 8-07-90 5:26p
FILE2209 TXT 2443 8-29-90 3:22p
GO1 BAT 43 1-01-80 1:44a
GO1 TXT 771 1-01-80 7:13a
7 file(s) 334914 bytes
23552 bytes free