PCjs Machines
Home of the original IBM PC emulator for browsers.
PC-SIG Diskette Library (Disk #3657)
[PCjs Machine "ibm5170"]
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GO.TXT
╔═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
║ <<<< PC-SIG Disk #3657 MAXimize Gold Disk 1 of 2 >>>> ║
╠═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣
║ ║
║ MAXimize comes to you in Zipped (compressed) format. ║
║ ║
║ Copy all files into a temporary sub-directory on your hard drive. ║
║ ║
║ To Unzip MAXimize Gold, type: PKUNZIP MAXGOLD (press enter). ║
║ ║
║ To Install MAXimize, simply run the INSTALL.EXE program provided. ║
║ This program should be located in the directory you unpacked the ║
║ files into. ║
║ ║
║ After installing MAXimize, you can start it by either entering MENU ║
║ or MAX at the DOS prompt from the MAXimize directory. ║
║ For example: C: (press Enter) ║
║ CD \MAX (press Enter) ║
║ MAX (press Enter) ║
║ ║
║ ║
║ After installation is complete, you may delete all files in the ║
║ temporary sub-directory you created at the start. ║
║ ║
║ ║
║ (C) Copyright 1993 PC-SIG Inc. 1030D East Duane Ave. Sunnyvale CA 94086 ║
║ For inquiries call: (408) 730-9291 For orders call: (800) 245-6717 ║
╚═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
FEATURES.DOC
This text file explains the features of MAXimize
================================================
MAXimize is an Application Interface Manager (AIM) that will
dramatically improve your productivity by allowing you to easily
design, build and control the interface to your applications. You
will find it easy and fun to build your own interface to the
applications on your computer. The result is an intuitive interface
designed specifically for you. This will increase your speed and
reduce errors, thus dramatically improving your productivity both when
using and changing that interface.
An AIM is virtually an operating environment, which is significantly
more powerful and sophisticated then a menu system, yet not to the
extent of Windows. All three have the capability to "launch"
applications by simply choosing a selection. However, it would be an
injustice to call Windows or MAXimize a menu system due to their
significantly greater speed, ease, capabilities and sophistication.
MAXimize comes in two editions, the Basic edition for novice to
intermediate users and the Gold edition for the intermediate to
advanced computer users. Both editions can run on Local Area Networks
(LANs), including usage logging and license control capabilities.
The Gold edition contains many more options and features than the
Basic edition. It is thus more sophisticated due to its additional
capabilities (although these can be ignored). Since both editions
share the same file formats, files created on either will run on both.
However, if the advanced capabilities of the Gold edition are used in
a selection/menu, the basic edition may not be able to update it.
The two editions and the ability to run on LANs, allow MAXimize to
appeal to a broad range of users. These users range from a novice
working out of their home to large corporations using LANs.
MAXimize is a truly sophisticated and professional application
interface manager. It combines lightning speed, high limits, powerful
and easy update facilities and an abundance of features. This
translates into flexibility and capability far superior to anything
else on the market.
Feature List for Both the Gold and Basic Editions:
==================================================
What separates an Application Interface Manager, and specifically
MAXimize, from other products is its significantly greater speed, ease
or use and change, capabilities and sophistication. The following
list of features clearly shows this. The features of both the Basic
and Gold editions of MAXimize are shown below. Each item which is
unique to MAXimize or that is not in many other software packages has
been preceded by a star (*) instead of a greater-than symbol (>).
> MAXimize is VERY fast
* Menus can be shown in a maximized window or cascaded windows!
> Takes no memory away from applications being ran
* Systems Application Architecture (SAA) / Common User Access (CUA).
With "menu bar", pull down menus, dialog buttons & keyboard input.
* Hide or disable items in the menu bar or its pulldowns.
* Built in support to run multiple sessions of MAXimize under a task
switching application like Software Carousel and OS/2 2.0.
> Fully customize menus, selections, colors and directories
* Integrated and sophisticated options, menu and selection editor
* Multiple user support on one computer. Each user may have a
different setup (options and menus).
* Each menu may have up to 99 selections - on one screen! If you
have ever used a menu system with a limit of 16 selections per
menu, and eventually needed 17, you'll appreciate this.
* Menus may be doubled spaced or displayed in multiple columns. If
the selections simply will not fit in the menu, then the menu will
be scrolled with the standard scroll bar.
* MAXimize maintains the current position (menu and selection) after
running a selection. Run the selection again without navigation.
* Hot keys can be used to run often used applications without having
to navigate to a menu
* True mouse support using text cursor and scroll bars where needed
* Selections can be easily copied or transferred (moved) within a
menu or to other menus (even to and from the hot keys)
* Update, delete, copy, & transfer many selections in one operation
* Extensive on-line help
* Complete Local Area Network (LAN) and shared PC support
* The ability to track (log) selection usage
* Log security violations
* License control to limit concurrent access to programs (LANs).
* Utility to manipulate/report on usage log & license control info
> TSR to disable the break key and reboots (Ctrl+Alt+Delete)
> Menus may have sub-menus (up to 10 menus deep)
> Single keystroke and point-and-press selection of menu items
> Simple selection entry/update through two types of selections that
do complete error checking: a) Display a menu & b) Run a program
> Selections may prompt for input parameters with one prompt
> Extensive password protection and encryption
> Secure screen save/blank feature to prevent screen "burning" and
unathorized PC usage while it is unattended.
Additional Features in MAXimize Gold
====================================
* You may add up to ten lines of text to a menu. This text may be
your company name, logo or an explanation of how to use the menu.
* EGA/VGA support for 25, 43 or 50 line screen modes
* Five types of selection ID's (the ID that identifies the selection
and that the user may enter to choose it):
- Alpha-numeric - letters A to Z followed by 0 to 9
- Numeric - 1 to 99
- First character - first character of selection description
- Specify - choose a character in selection description
- None - no selection ID - user must point-and-press
* An additional selection type (above the two mentioned earlier)
that allows you to execute a set of commands similar to a batch
file, but with several very powerful extensions
* Full function editor, with mouse block operations like cut & paste
* Selections may prompt for input. These prompts may be either for
text or for an item in a list.
* Selections can do multiple prompts
* Selections can prompt for files, directories or drives, with the
&File, &Dir and &Drive functions using sophisticated dialog boxes
* Selections can conditionally execute (or prompt) using the &If and
&GoTo functions. For example, the selection could prompt for a
drive (like A:, B:, C:) and then choose to do further prompts
differently for floppy drives then for the hard drive.
* Extensive variable support. This includes environment, global,
input and special variables. For example, the samples include a
selection that allows you to change the PATH environment variable.
Another example is special variables that allow you to get the
current date, time, drive, directory, DOS version, etc.
* Create a help message to appear at the bottom of the window and/or
help text to appear when F1 pressed
* Time delay execution of applications invoked by a selection
* Utility to "type" keys as if from keyboard from batch file
* Batch files can be imported into or exported from a selection
> Selections can be defined to shell directly to the programs
MANUAL.DOC
MAXimize Gold Edition
=====================
Version 3.1
Copyright (C) 1988,1990 by Don Cappaert
All rights reserved.
MAXimize is distributed as "Shareware" and is fully copyrighted. You may
have received a copy of MAXimize free or for a small fee, from a a public
bulletin board, shareware library, shareware disk vendor or user's group
library. You are encouraged to make as many copies of the software and this
documentation as you like and distribute it to anyone you want, as long as
you do not charge a fee (other than to cover your own distribution cost) and
distribute only complete, unaltered copies of the package, exactly as you
received it. Please read the shareware screen displayed when MAXimize is
invoked.
If after trying the program for 60 days, you find it useful and use it
regularly, you must register your copy by completing the registration form
printed (you are asked if the order form should be printed when you first
enter MAXimize). The order form (file ORDER.DOC) can also be printed using
the DOS command "COPY ORDER.DOC PRN".
There is only one differences between the shareware version and the
registered version of MAXimize. The shareware version displays a screen
when it is first invoked. This screen is a reminder that you are using the
unregistered version of MAXimize.
The MAXLOG.EXE and MAXCONVT.EXE programs are distributed in a separate file
(MAXUTL30.ZIP) because of their size (over 300k) and because they are used
by both the Gold and Basic editions. MAXLOG.EXE is a report utility for the
usage log and is also used for license control. While MAXLOG.EXE is a
convenient reporting utility, you may use any XBase database to generate
reports. If you would like to try MAXLOG.EXE or MAXCONVT.EXE and cannot
find MAXUTL30.ZIP, please send Max Software a check for $5 (to cover
shipping and handling) and request MAXUTL30.ZIP be sent to you.
When you register MAXimize, you will receive a beautiful manual, a reference
card and the latest version of MAXimize on a diskette. Max Software will
provide support for any problems or questions you might have. You will also
be notified when there are updates to or newer versions of MAXimize.
Max Software
9121 141st West
Taylor Ridge, IL 61284 USA
CompuServe user ID: 71170,740
Phone number: 309-798-2533
Table of Contents
=================
Introduction.............................................1
What is MAXimize?...................................1
Features............................................1
About this Manual...................................4
System Requirements.................................4
Changes from Previous Versions of MAXimize..........4
Installation........................................5
Files Installed.....................................5
Getting Started Quickly.............................6
Sample Menus........................................6
Definition of Shareware.............................7
Disclaimer Agreement................................7
Chapter 1: Using the Menus...............................9
Invoking MAXimize...................................9
Menu Anatomy........................................9
Menu Bar............................................11
Dialog Boxes........................................12
Buttons........................................13
Fields.........................................13
Editing Keys...................................14
Toggles........................................14
Lists..........................................14
Getting Help........................................15
Moving the Selection Bar Within a Menu..............16
Choosing a Selection................................16
Displaying Other Menus..............................17
Window Cascade......................................17
Screen Save and Protection..........................17
Input Prompts.......................................18
Quitting MAXimize...................................19
Advanced Topics.....................................19
Using a Mouse..................................19
Hot Keys.......................................21
Invoking MAXimize with Parameters..............22
Using MAXimize with a Task Switcher............23
Go To DOS......................................24
Chapter 2: Modifying Menus...............................25
Overview............................................25
Marking Selection(s)...........................26
Text Block Operations..........................26
Selection Formats (Types)......................27
Run a Program, Command or Batch File......28
Display a New or Existing Menu............30
Command Stream............................31
Switching Selection Formats....................34
Searching for a Program or Directory...........35
Update Menu Characteristics.........................36
Adding Text to a Menu..........................37
Add a Selection / Sub-Menu..........................38
Update a Selection..................................41
Copy or Transfer a Selection........................42
Delete a Selection / Sub-Menu.......................43
Defining Help for a Selection.......................44
Advanced Topics.....................................45
Using Wild Cards in Sub-Menu Name..............45
Selections that Return to Prior/Main Menu......46
Selections that Quit...........................47
Parameters and Prompt..........................47
The Shell Toggle...............................48
Copy of Transfer a Sub-Menu....................49
Chapter 3: Commands, Variables and Functions.............50
Overview............................................50
Commands............................................50
Variables...........................................51
Special Variables..............................51
Input Variables................................52
Environment Variables..........................53
Global Variables...............................54
Using and Setting Variables in Commands........54
Functions...........................................55
Prompt.........................................55
Menu...........................................56
Drive..........................................58
Dir............................................58
File...........................................59
Part...........................................60
If.............................................61
GoTo...........................................62
Abort..........................................62
Key............................................63
Chapter 4: Customizing MAXimize - Options................65
Colors..............................................65
Directories.........................................68
Password Protection.................................69
Miscellaneous.......................................71
Reset Options.......................................74
Update Mode.........................................74
User ID.............................................75
Project.............................................76
Chapter 5: Using MAXimize's Utilities....................77
Asking Questions from Batch Files with ASK..........77
Making the Computer BEEP............................79
Viewing a File's Contents...........................80
Changing the Setup with MAXSETUP....................81
Preventing Control Break and Reboot.................81
Typing Keys Automatically...........................82
Delayed Execution of Commands.......................82
Mouse Initialization................................83
Converting Menus to MAXimize........................83
Chapter 6: Controlling and Monitoring Access.............85
Security............................................85
Forgotten Passwords............................85
Protecting MAXimize or DOS Access..............85
Preventing Unauthorized Changes................86
Securing an Unattended Computer................86
Protecting Menus and Selections................86
Selection Password Annoying....................86
Truly Securing MAXimize........................87
Monitoring Access...................................87
The Usage Log..................................87
Reducing the Data Viewed.......................89
Sequencing the Usage Log Data..................91
Set Program Used...............................91
Usage Log Reports..............................92
Limiting License Usage..............................93
License Control................................94
Add License Control............................95
Edit License Control...........................95
Delete License Control.........................96
Disable Program Execution......................96
Display Current Users..........................96
License Control Reports........................97
Periodic Maintenance to Databases...................97
Appendix A: Hints........................................99
Cut and Paste Between Selections....................99
Invoke MAXimize without Directory Change............99
Invoke MAXimize Automatically.......................99
Removing ECHO OFF...................................100
Renaming MENU.BAT file..............................100
Macros..............................................100
File Placement......................................100
Maximizing Performance..............................101
Appendix B: Trouble Shooting and Technical Support.......102
Appendix C: Networks and Shared PCs......................104
Appendix D: Messages.....................................106
Index....................................................114
1
Introduction
============
What is MAXimize?
=================
MAXimize is an Application Interface Manager (AIM) that will dramatically
improve your productivity by allowing you to easily design, build and
control the interface to your applications. You will find it easy and fun
to build your own interface to the applications on your computer. The
result is an intuitive interface designed specifically for you. This will
increase your speed and reduce errors, thus dramatically improving your
productivity both when using and changing that interface.
An AIM is virtually an operating environment, which is significantly more
powerful and sophisticated then a menu system, yet not to the extent of
Windows. All three have the capability to "launch" applications by simply
choosing a selection. However, it would be an injustice to call Windows or
MAXimize a menu system due to their significantly greater capabilities and
sophistication.
MAXimize comes in two editions, the Basic edition for novice to intermediate
users and the Gold edition for the intermediate to advanced computer users.
Both editions can run on Local Area Networks (LANs), including usage logging
and license control capabilities. The two editions and the ability to run
on LANs, allow MAXimize to appeal to a broad range of users. These users
range from a novice working out of their home to large corporations using
LANs.
The Gold edition contains many more options and features than the Basic
edition. It is thus more sophisticated due to its additional capabilities
(although these can be ignored). Since both editions share the same file
formats, files created on either will run on both. However, if the advanced
capabilities of the Gold edition are used in a selection/menu, you may not
be able to edit this selection/menu with the Basic edition.
MAXimize is a truly sophisticated and professional application interface
manager. It combines lightning speed, high limits, powerful and easy update
facilities and an abundance of features. This translates into flexibility
and capability far superior to anything else on the market.
Features
========
What separates an Application Interface Manager, and specifically MAXimize,
from other products is its significantly greater capabilities and
sophistication. The feature list below clearly shows this. Each item which
is unique to MAXimize or that is not in many other software packages has
been preceded by a astericks (*) instead of a dash (-).
- MAXimize is very fast.
- Takes no memory away from applications being ran
2
* Systems Application Architecture (SAA) / Common User Access (CUA). With
"menu bar", pull down menus, dialog buttons & keyboard input.
* Menus displayed in a cascaded fashion on top of wallpaper.
* Built in support to run multiple sessions of MAXimize under a task
switching application like Software Carousel and OS/2 2.0.
* Fully customize menus, selections, colors and directories
* Integrated and sophisticated options, menu and selection editor
* Multiple user support on one computer. Each user may have a different
setup (options and menus).
* Each menu may have up to 99 selections - on one screen! If you have
ever used a menu system with a limit of 16 selections per menu, and
eventually needed 17, you'll appreciate this.
* Menus may be doubled spaced or displayed in multiple columns. If the
selections simply will not fit in the menu, then the menu will be
scrolled with the standard scroll bar.
* MAXimize maintains the current position (menu and selection) after
running a selection. Run the selection again without navigation.
* Hot keys are selections can be invoked to run often used applications
without having to navigate to a menu!
* True mouse support using text cursor and scroll bars where needed
* Selections can be easily copied or transferred (moved) within a menu or
to other menus (even to and from the hot keys)
* Update, delete, copy, and transfer multiple selections easily with one
operation
* Extensive on-line help.
* Complete Local Area Network (LAN) and shared PC support
* The ability to track (log) selection usage. Keep track of whom, when and
how long a selection is being used. Even by Projects!
* Log security violations.
* License control to limit concurrent access to programs (LANs).
* Utility to manipulate/report on the usage log and license control
databases.
- TSR to disable the break key and reboots (Ctrl+Alt+Delete)
- Menus may have sub-menus (up to 10 menus deep).
- Single keystroke and point-and-press selection of menu items.
3
- Simple selection entry/update through two types of selections that do
complete error checking: a) Display a menu & b) Run a program
- Selections may prompt for input parameters with one prompt
- Extensive password protection and encryption
- Secure screen save/blank feature to prevent screen "burning" and
unathorized PC usage while it is unattended.
Additional Features in MAXimize Gold
------------------------------------
* You may add up to ten lines of text to a menu. This text may be your
company name, logo or an explanation of the menu.
* EGA/VGA support for 25, 43 or 50 line screen modes.
* Five types of selection ID's (the ID that identifies the selection and
that the user may enter to choose it):
- Alpha-numeric - letters A to Z followed by 0 to 9.
- Numeric - 1 to 99.
- First character - first character of selection description,
- Specify ID - Specify the character in description (like X in eXit)
- None - no selection ID. User must point-and-press.
* An additional selection type (above the two mentioned earlier) that
allows you to execute a set of commands similar to a batch file, but
with several very powerful extensions
* Full function editor, with mouse block operations like cut & paste
* Selections may prompt for input. These prompts may be either for text
or for an item in a list.
* Selections can do multiple prompts
* Selections can prompt for files, directories or drives, with the &File,
&Dir and &Drive functions using sophisticated dialog boxes
* Selections can conditionally execute (or prompt) using the &If and &GoTo
functions. For example, the selection could prompt for a drive (like
A:, B:, C:) and then choose to do further prompts differently for floppy
drives then for the hard drive.
* Extensive variable support. This includes environment, global, input
and special variables. For example, the samples include a selection
that allows you to change the PATH environment variable. Another
example is special variables that allow you to get the current date,
time, drive, directory, DOS version, etc.
* Create a help message to appear at the bottom of the window and/or help
text to appear when F1 pressed
4
* Time delay execution of applications invoked by a selection
* Utility to "type" keys as if from keyboard from batch file
- Batch files can be imported into or exported from a selection
- Selections can be defined to shell directly to the program
About this Manual
=================
This manual has been divided into several chapters. The introduction
contains information on the system requirements, files, menus and
installation instructions. Also, there is a Getting started quickly section
for those users who are familiar with DOS and want to use MAXimize before
reading the manual. If you fall into this category, read the introduction
before attempting to use MAXimize.
The first chapter explains how to use, but not modify, MAXimize's menus.
This includes invoking MAXimize, navigating to sub-menus, choosing a
selection and quitting. This chapter should be sufficient reading for users
who are not responsible for making changes to MAXimize's setup (menus and
options).
The second chapter explains how to modify the menus and the third chapter
discusses the powerful batch command extension provided by MAXimize. The
fourth chapter explains how to change the options (colors, passwords, etc.)
and the fifth chapter has information about the utilities included with
MAXimize. The last chapter describes how to control and monitor the use of
the applications on your computer. Finally, there are some appendixes that
contain useful hints, common problems, LAN/shared PC information and a list
of messages.
System Requirements
===================
MAXimize requires MS-DOS / PC-DOS version 2.0 or higher. It is designed to
work on the IBM PC, XT, AT or PS2 models, or a fully compatible machine. A
minimum of 384K of memory is also required. While MAXimize can run from a
floppy-based system, it is highly recommended that you have a hard-disk
system.
Changes from Previous Versions of MAXimize
==========================================
This version is a major enhancement to MAXimize. Improvements include a
significant performance enhancement when using a mouse, cascaded menu
windows and the ability to hide/disable menu bar or pull down items.
5
Installation
============
You have already unpacked the MAXimize files. To install MAXimize simply
run the INSTALL program. The installation program will ask a few simple
questions and finish the installation. For network and shared PC
installations, please review Appendix C.
Files Installed
===============
The following files are part of the sharware version of MAXimize:
File: Description of file:
-------------- -----------------------------------------------------
MAX.EXE starts MAXimize
MENU.BAT starts MAXimize (alternate method)
SESSION.BAT starts a MAXimize session. For use with a task
switcher
MAXSETUP.EXE modifies the setup (menus and options)
MAXIMIZE.OVL common routines - used internally by MAX.EXE and
MAXSETUP.EXE
VIEW.EXE file viewer program used in the samples
ASK.COM program that allows batch files to ask questions
BEEP.COM program that causes your computer to beep
MAXIMIZE.INI Initialization file
MAXIMIZE.SET contains the options (directories, colors, etc)
MAXIMIZE.HLP on-line help
MAXIMIZE.KYS hot keys
*.MNU are menus (all menus have .MNU extension) The sample
menus start with SAMP
MAXLOG.EXE Usage log and license control utility. Will browse,
query, print and maintain these DBF files. (packaged
separately - see README file).
MAXLOG.DBF User-Log database.
MAXCHK.DBF License control database (LAN version only)
WAITTILL.COM Utility waits till a specified time or a key press.
NOBREAK.COM Prevents (control) break out of MAXimize and all
batch files. Also prevents Ctrl+Alt+Del reboot.
TYPEKEY.EXE Utility to cause keys to be typed as if from keyboard
MAXCONVT.EXE AutoMenu menu file (*.MDF) conversion utility. (This
is packaged separately - see README).
ORDER.DOC is the order form.
FEATURES.DOC lists many of the features in MAXimize
WHATSNEW.DOC list changes for this version
VENDOR.DOC Vendor registration form
MANUAL.DOC The manual that explains MAXimize
FILE_ID.DIZ Bulletin board description of MAXimize
README contains information about MAXimize, including quick
start instructions.
INSTALL.EXE Installation program. Run this program to finish
installation. Deletes itself after installation
completed.
6
NEWFILES.EXE Self-extracting file that contains files used for
first time installs. File is deleted after
installation completed by INSTALL.EXE
Getting Started Quickly
=======================
The README file contains a section on how to get started quickly. If you
want to get started quickly then read this file.
Sample Menus
============
MAXimize comes complete with a set of sample menus. These menus are
designed to show one possible menu structure and to provide some example
selections. The structure of the sample menus is depicted in the following
"tree" diagram that shows each of the menu names:
MAIN - is the main menu displayed when MAXimize is first invoked
|- SAMPLES - contains selections and sub-menus that run DOS commands
| |- SAMPFEAT - shows some of MAXimize's features
| | |- SAMPLARG - menu containing 99 selections on screen
| | |- SAMPSCRL - menu containing 2 columns of selections / scrolled
| | |- SAMPIDS - menu of selections each displaying a menu ID type:
| | | |- SAMPALPH - alphanumeric selection ID type
| | | |- SAMPFRST - first letter of selection description is ID
| | | |- SAMPNUMC - numeric selection ID type
| | | |- SAMPNOID - selections have no ID
| | | |- SAMPSPEC - user specified ID (like X in eXit)
| | |- MAXIMIZE.KYS - hot keys
| | |- SAMPFRMT - show selection formats (run, command and sub-menu)
| | | |- SAMPNUMC - see above for description of this sub-menu
| | |- SAMPPRMP - show how selections may prompt (multiple times)
| | |- SAMPPASS - selection and sub-menu passwords
| |- SAMPPRMP - see above for description of this sub-menu
| |- SAMPDIR - sample directory display menu
| |- SAMPLOG - sample menu to log events
| |-SAMPUSE - sample menu showing how to keep track of program usage
|- SAMPFEAT - see above for description of this sub-menu
|- DBMS - database menu
|- GAMES - games menu
|- LANGUAGE - languages menu
|- MISC - miscellaneous menu
|- GRAPHICS - graphics menu
|- UTILITY - utilities menu
|- FLOPPY - menu for floppy applications
NOTE: SAMPDIR is a sub-menu of SAMPLES which is a sub-menu of MAIN.
> Selections that display a sub-menu. The descriptions for these types of
selections include the word "menu." For example, choosing the "MAXimize
samples menu" selection on the MAIN menu displays the SAMPLES menu.
7
> Selections that will do the indicated task using DOS commands. These
selections exist only in the SAMPLES menu and its sub-menus. Thus,
choosing the "Time change" selection on the SAMPLES menu will change the
time on your computer. These functional selections are intended to show
the various ways selections may be coded.
> All remaining selections, such as "Word processing" on the MAIN menu, do
not invoke any program. Instead, these selections ECHO a statement to
the screen indicating they must be changed to invoke your programs.
You are encouraged to modify these menus and selections to suit your tastes
and needs. Please keep in mind that the SAMPLES menu and its sub-menus will
be referenced in this manual. Therefore, keep them for future reference
(you may want to move them off the MAIN menu).
Definition of Shareware
=======================
Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software before buying
it. If you try a Shareware program and continue using it, you are expected
to register. Individual programs differ on details -- some request
registration while others require it, some specify a maximum trial period.
With registration, you get anything from the simple right to continue
using the software to an updated program with printed manual.
Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial software, and the
copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific exceptions as
stated below. Shareware authors are accomplished programmers, just like
commercial authors, and the programs are of comparable quality. (In both
cases, there are good programs and bad ones!) The main difference is in the
method of distribution. The author specifically grants the right to copy
and distribute the software, either to all and sundry or to a specific
group. For example, some authors require written permission before a
commercial disk vendor may copy their Shareware.
Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software. You should find
software that suits your needs and pocketbook, whether it's commercial or
Shareware. The Shareware system makes fitting your needs easier, because
you can try before you buy. And because the overhead is low, prices are low
also. Shareware has the ultimate money-back guarantee -- if you don't use
the product, you don't pay for it.
Disclaimer Agreement
====================
Users of MAXimize must accept this disclaimer of warranty: MAXimize is
supplied as is. The author disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied,
including, without limitation, the warranties of merchantability and of
fitness for any purpose. The author assumes no liability for damages,
direct or consequential, which may result from the use of MAXimize.
MAXimize is a "shareware program" and is provided at no charge to the user
for evaluation. Feel free to share it with your friends, but please do not
give it away altered or as part of another system. The essence of "user-
supported" software is to provide personal computer users with quality
software without high prices, and yet to provide incentive for programmers
8
to continue to develop new products. If you find this program useful and
find that you are using MAXimize and continue to use MAXimize after a
reasonable trial period, you must make a registration payment of $59 to Max
Software. The $59 registration fee will license one copy for use on any one
computer at any one time. You must treat this software just like a book.
An example is that this software may be used by any number of people and may
be freely moved from one computer location to another, so long as there is
no possibility of it being used at one location while it's being used at
another. Just as a book cannot be read by two different persons at the same
time.
Commercial users of MAXimize must register and pay for their copies of
MAXimize within 60 days of first use or their license is withdrawn. Site-
License arrangements may be made by contacting Max Software.
Anyone distributing MAXimize for any kind of remuneration must first contact
Max Software at the address below for authorization. This authorization
will be automatically granted to distributors recognized by the (ASP) as
adhering to its guidelines for shareware distributors, and such distributors
may begin offering MAXimize immediately (However Max Software must still be
advised so that the distributor can be kept up-to-date with the latest
version of MAXimize.).
You are encouraged to pass a copy of MAXimize along to your friends for
evaluation. Please encourage them to register their copy if they find that
they can use it. All registered users will receive a copy of the latest
version of MAXimize.
9
Chapter 1: Using the Menus
==========================
Invoking MAXimize
=================
To invoke MAXimize, you must first change to the directory containing
MAXimize (unless this directory is in your PATH) and then type MAX or MENU
at the DOS prompt. Thus, if you installed into C:\MAX, the commands are:
A> C:
C> CHDIR \MAX
C> MAX
MAX is slightly faster then Menu. However, MAX may display a message before
or after executing a selection. Try both to determine your preference.
Menu Anatomy
============
After invoking MAXimize, the main menu will be displayed:
File Edit Options Window Help
+-----------------------------+ Main Menu +------------------------------+
| +--------------------------------------------------------------+ |
| | + + + ++ ++ ++ ++ | |
| | ++ ++ +++ ++ ++ | |
| | +++ +++ ++ ++ +++ ++ ++ ++ ++ +++++ ++++ | |
| | ++++ ++++ ++ ++ + ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ + ++ ++ | |
| | ++ +++ ++ +++++++ +++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ + ++++++ | |
| | ++ + ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ + ++ | |
| | ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ +++++ ++++ | |
| | | |
| | (Put your own logo or help text here by updating menu text) | |
| +--------------------------------------------------------------+ |
| |
| Documentation Languages menu Word processing |
| Samples menu Miscellaneous menu Shut computer Off |
| DataBase menu Graphics menu Exit |
| Games menu Utilities menu |
| |
++ View/Print MAXimize documentation +-----------------------------------+
MAXimize +=Select_Item ^v><=Next_Item Alt=Actions 07:10pm 30OCT92
The following is a list of the items in MAXimize's screen:
Menu Bar - the top line of the screen.
Project - To the right on the top line the current project being
worked on is displayed. This may be blank if there is
no project. In the example this is Project1.
10
Main Window - the large window below the menu bar. This window may be
cascaded (the default) or maximize to use all of the
screen. It will be used to hold selections for your
menus.
Wall Paper - The shaded background behind the cascaded main window.
Border - the double line drawn around the main window.
Title - the name given to the menu. In the example above the
title is Main Menu.
Menu Text - optional text to include in the menu. This text is
displayed in a box below the title and above the
selections. Menu text can be used to include your logo
or helpful text within the menu.
Selection Description - a short description of what the selection
will do. For example, the "Games menu" selection
displays a menu of games.
Selection IDs - the highlighted identifier in each selection. For
example, the selection ID for "Word Processing" in the
example above is "W". This selection ID may be the
first character of the description, a number (from 1 to
99), alpha-numeric (the letters A to Z, followed by
numbers 0 to 9., a character within the description
(like X in eXit), or none at all.
Selection Bar - highlights the current selection. The current selection
in the example above is "Games menu"
Help message - contains additional information/help for the current
selection. It is displayed in the bottom left hand
corner of the main window border.
Status line - will always be displayed at the bottom of the screen
showing the current date/time and a list of keys most
often needed. It may contain a message as well. The
keys and messages in this line will change as you do
different tasks within MAXimize (such as add, update,
delete, etc.). The status of the Alt, Ctrl, Caps Lock,
Shift and Num Lock keys are displayed as well. Try
pressing these keys to see how they are displayed. Look
at the status line if you are not sure what keys to use.
Scroll bars - displayed when the menu's selections will not fit in the
window or for multiple line text. The window can be
scrolled to view selections or text that do not fit in
the window. For menus, the scroll bar is always
vertical and appears on the right edge of the window.
Text will always have both a vertical and horizontal
scroll bar. A horizontal scroll bar will appear on the
bottom edge of the area being scrolled.
11
Scroll box - shows how far you are positioned into the menu or text.
For example, if the scroll box is in the middle of the
scroll bar then you are positioned in the middle of the
menu/text.
Arrow icons - placed on both ends of the scroll bar to show that the
window can be scrolled in those directions.
Menu Bar
========
The menu bar is the top line of the screen. It contains a list of items,
each of which displays a drop down menu. From the drop down menu you may
choose a command that instructs MAXimize to perform actions. To activate
the menu bar press the Alt, F10 or slash (/) key. Then press the first
letter of the desired item on the menu bar. For example, to get help press
Alt+H and the help drop down menu will be displayed:
File Edit Options Window Help
+--------------------+
+----------------------------| For Selection F1 |----------------------+
| +----------------------| For MAXimize F2 |------------------+ |
| | + + + ++--------------------+++ | |
| | ++ ++ +++ | About MAXimize | | |
| | +++ +++ ++ ++ +--------------------+++ +++++ ++++ | |
| | ++++ ++++ ++ ++ + ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ + ++ ++ | |
| | ++ +++ ++ +++++++ +++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ + ++++++ | |
| | ++ + ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ + ++ | |
| | ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ ++ +++++ ++++ | |
| | | |
| | (Put your own logo or help text here by updating menu text) | |
| +--------------------------------------------------------------+ |
| |
| Documentation Languages menu Word processing |
| Samples menu Miscellaneous menu Shut computer Off |
| DataBase menu Graphics menu Exit |
| Games menu Utilities menu |
| |
++ View/Print MAXimize documentation +-----------------------------------+
MAXimize +=Select_Item ^v><=Next_Item Alt=Actions 07:10pm 30OCT92
From this drop down menu you can select the desired help command by pressing
the highlighted character. The commands in the drop down menus also
includes (on the right side) the short cut key for the command. These keys
can be used instead of selecting the command from the drop down menus. For
example, you can get help for MAXimize using the menu bar by pressing Alt+H
M or by pressing the F2 short cut key. As you become more familiar with
MAXimize, you will probably find the short cut keys to be easy to remember
and quicker.
12
Dialog Boxes
============
MAXimize uses dialog boxes to allow you to enter information to carry out a
selection or command. For example, the following is the dialog box used
when you enter the command to create a new selection that runs a program,
command or batch file (press Insert then Enter to view this dialog box):
+----------+ Selection to run a program, command or batch file +----------+
| |
| Description: |
| Program: |
| |
+-- Optional v -----------------------------------------------------------+
| |
| Directory: |
| Parameters: |
| Prompt: |
| Track By: |
| Password: |
| ID letter: < Not allowed due to current menu's ID Type. |
| |
| [ ] Pause after program runs [ ] Shell directly to program |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Update Help > < Format > < Cancel > < Help > |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
The dialog box above contains multiple items: fields, toggles and buttons.
The fields in the dialog box above all end in a colon, such as description,
program and password. A list is two or more selections preceded by
parenthesis, of which you may choose only one. A toggle is an option that
may be on or off and is preceded by square brackets ([ ]). The buttons are
enclosed in less than and greater than symbols (< >) along the bottom of the
window. Each dialog box will have at least one message, field, list or
toggle and a button.
Moving the cursor to a field, list, toggle or button can be done by using
the following keys:
Tab ......... The Tab key is normally located just above the left Caps
Lock key. When pressed, it will move the cursor through
the items on the screen from left to right, top to bottom.
When the cursor reaches the last item, the next Tab will
return to the first item.
Shift+Tab ..The Shift+Tab key is the combination of holding the Shift
key down while press the Tab key. This causes the cursor
to move from right to left, bottom to top (the reverse of
Tab). When the cursor reaches the first item, the next
Shift+Tab will go to the last item.
Down arrow .The down arrow will go to the next item, unless the current
item uses it (like the lists in the add selection dialog
box).
13
Up arrow ....The up arrow will go to the prior item, unless the current
item uses it (like the lists in the add selection dialog
box).
Alt+? .......Alt+? is the combination of holding the Alt key down while
pressing the highlighted key for an item. Most of the
items will have a highlighted key to allow you to use this
method to quickly move to an item. For example, pressing
Alt+P in the above dialog box will move to the program
field. Using this method to move to a selection in a list
will select it, or to move to a toggle will turn it on/off
or to move to a button will depress (select) it.
Buttons
=======
Buttons normally appear along the bottom of a dialog box and are always
enclosed in less than and greater than symbols (eq. < OK >). Pressing a
button requests an action be taken. For example, pressing cancel will
cancel a dialog box . To press a button, you may use the Tab or Shift+Tab
keys to position the cursor to the desired button and then use the Enter or
space bar key to depress it. Also, you may hold the Alt key down while
pressing the highlighted key in the button (eq. Alt+H would depress the Help
button).
Generally speaking there will usually be an OK, Cancel and Help button in
each dialog box. Depressing the OK button causes the dialog box to accept
the information within it. Depressing Cancel causes the action associated
with the dialog box to be canceled. Depressing Help requests help for the
dialog box. Dialog boxes may also contain other buttons, these are
explained in the sections covering these dialog boxes.
If a button is highlighted while the cursor is not positioned on it then
pressing Enter will also depress that button. Normally, this will be the OK
button. Thus, pressing enter while not on a button will normally cause the
dialog box information to be accepted.
Fields
======
Fields are used in dialog boxes where input text is to be typed. These
fields are usually labeled (eq. Program: is the label for the field to
contain the program name). However, if the dialog box consists of only one
field and some buttons (such as the input prompt window), then the field may
not be labeled. You should position to a field as described earlier and
then type the desired text. While typing text you may also use the editing
keys outlined in the next section.
14
Editing Keys
============
The following keys are always available for editing purposes:
Left arrow ...Move the cursor left one character
Right arrow ..Move the cursor right one character
Home ........Move the cursor to start of line
End .........Move the cursor to end of line
Insert ......Toggle between insert and overwrite mode
Delete ......Delete character at cursor
Backspace ...Delete character before cursor
Ctrl+Y .......Clear the entire line
Ctrl+Delete ..Clear the line from cursor to end
Note: insert mode causes the character typed to be inserted at the cursor
and overwrite mode causes the character typed to replace the
character at the cursor. The current mode will show up in the
status line as INS or OVR.
Toggles
=======
Toggles are used in dialog boxes for options that may be on or off. Each
toggle is preceded by a set of square brackets([ ]). The toggle is on when
an X is displayed within the square brackets (eq. [X]). To change a toggle
from on to off or visa versa, you may use the Tab or Shift+Tab keys to
position the cursor to the desired toggle and then press the space bar.
Finally, you may hold the Alt key down while pressing the highlighted key in
the toggle (eq. Alt+S would toggle "Shell directly to program").
Lists
=====
Lists are used in dialog boxes when you must choose one selection from a
list. Each selection in the list is preceded by a set of parenthesis. For
example, when creating a new selection, the add dialog box will be displayed
(press Insert to view this dialog box):
+----------------+ Add Selection +-----------------+
| |
| Where: (_) After highlighted selection |
| ( ) Before highlighted selection |
| |
| Format: (_) Run a program, command or batch file |
| ( ) Display a new or existing menu |
| ( ) Command stream (Batch commands) |
| |
+--------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Cancel > < Help > |
+--------------------------------------------------+
15
This dialog box contains a list for where the selection should be added and
another for the selection's format. The current selection in each list is
denoted by a dot within the parenthesis. To change the current selection in
a list, you may use the Tab or Shift+Tab keys to position the cursor to the
desired list and then use the arrow keys to move the dot. Also, you may
hold the Alt key down while pressing the highlighted key in the selection
(eq. Alt+B would select "Before highlighted selection").
Getting Help
============
To get help for a selection, position the selection bar on the selection. A
help message will appear in the bottom border of the main window. Press
Alt+H S or the F1 short cut key to display additional help text for this
selection.
To get help on how to use MAXimize, press Alt+H M or the F2 short cut key.
This will display the help screen which has two windows. The left window
contains a menu of topics, and the right window has an explanation of the
highlighted topic. The sequence of topics allows new users to read all
about MAXimize by pressing the down arrow key to read the next topic. To
view the explanation for a topic, press the highlighted character for that
topic. For example, press Alt+H M and then K to get the following help:
File Edit Options Window Help
+----- Topics: ------+--------------------- Keyboard ---------------------+ |
How to use help ^ |
| Getting help # MAXimize's assignment of the keyboard keys are |
| General menu info O explained in the following help sections: |
| Copyright notice # |
| Order Information # Navigating menus - how to go to other menus. |
| Keyboard # Function keys - what the function keys do. |
| Navigating menus # Hot keys - invoking often used programs |
| Function keys # without navigating to a menu. |
| Hot keys # Editing keys - normal editing keys. |
| Editing keys # Multi-line edits - editing multiple lines of text. |
| Multi-line edits # Block operations - how to use block operations to |
| Block operations # cut and paste blocks of text. |
| Mouse # |
| Status line # To choose one of the above, just Tab to it and pres|
| Menu bar line # Enter. To review them all, just press the down |
| Prompt window # arrow after reading each one. |
| Warning messages # |
| File and Exit # You can also use a mouse as a means to select items|
| Edit # and to do block operations. |
| Update selection # |
| Update menu v |
+--------------------+----------------------------------------------------+
Help: F1=Help v=Next_Topic <=Prior_Topic >=Related_Topics _=Choose Esc=Done
16
You may use the following keys:
Up arrow............Up one topic
Down arrow..........Down one topic
Home................First topic
End.................Last topic
Left arrow..........Prior (related) topic
Right arrow or Tab..Positions to a related topic within the text
Enter...............Selects (displays) the related topic positioned on
Related topics mentioned within the text of the topic displayed are shown in
a different color (the same color as the topics in the left window). You
may use the right arrow, Tab or Shift+Tab keys to position to a related
topic. Then press the Enter key to display the related topic. To return to
the prior topic, simply press the left arrow key (this can be done
repeatedly to retrace your steps backward through related topics).
To leave MAXimize's help, press the Esc key.
Moving the Selection Bar Within a Menu
======================================
MAXimize uses the same keys in all menus to move the selection bar. These
keys are:
Up arrow......Up one row.
Down arrow....Down one row.
Left arrow....Left one column.
Right arrow...Right one column.
Home..........First selection.
End...........Last selection.
PgUp..........Page up (for menus that scroll).
PgDn..........Page down (for menus that scroll).
Try each of these keys. Notice the selection bar "wraps" around when the
arrow keys are held down. If you press the down arrow key when positioned
on the last item, the selection bar will be placed on the first item.
Choosing a Selection
====================
To choose a selection, type the highlighted selection ID or move the
selection bar to the desired item and press the Enter key. The highlighted
selection ID is normally on the left side of the selections' description,
but may be a letter within the description. This ID should be a different
color. Try choosing the "Word processing" selection on the main menu by
pressing W.
17
Displaying Other Menus
======================
Navigating to a lower level (sub) menu is done by choosing the appropriate
selection. For example, choosing the "Samples menu" selection on the main
menu will display the following sub-menu:
File Edit Options Window Help
+------------------------------+ Main Menu +-----------------------------+
|+-------------------------------+ Samples +------------------------------+
|| |
|| |
|| A Print order/registration form N Check disk drive |
|| B View/Print Documentation O Display volume label |
|| C Features menu P Set volume label |
|| D Display directory menu Q Display information |
|| E Log events menu R Date change - from 10-30-1992 |
|| F Program usage log menu S Time change |
|| G Execute a DOS command T Find text in file |
|| H Alter DOS PATH U Edit file |
|| I Set any environment variable V View a file |
|| J Display a menu W Print a file |
|| K Dynamic PATHing example X Return to prior menu |
|| L Copy floppy between A: and B: Y Return to main menu |
|| M Format floppy Z Exit |
|| |
+| |
++ Print the order/registartion form +-----------------------------------+
MAXimize +=Select_Item ^v><=Next_Item Alt=Actions 07:11pm 30OCT92
To return to the prior menu press Alt+F P or the Esc short cut key. To
return directly to the main menu from any sub-menu, type Alt+F M or the
backslash (\) short cut key. To return to a previous menu, press Alt+W
followed by the number displayed to the left of the menu to return to.
Window Cascade
==============
By default, MAXimize displays your menus in cascading windows. That is,
each submenu (lower level menu) the is displayed will overlay the previous
one on the screen. Later, you will be shown how to change this default in
the miscellaneous options. Any time after starting MAXimize, you may toggle
between cascaded and full sized menu windows by pressing the Alt+W C keys or
the F3 short cut key. You may find it useful to display a menu with lots of
selections in a full sized window.
Screen Save and Protection
==========================
MAXimize can automatically clear the screen after a specified period of time
to prevent the characters from burning into the screen and/or to prevent
unauthorized use of your unattended computer. The setting of this automatic
18
screen "save" feature is discussed later under miscellaneous options. You
can also cause the screen to be cleared (or "saved") by pressing the Alt+W S
keys of the Shift+F10 short cut key. This is useful when you leave your
computer for a period of time, especially if the automatic screen clear
feature has been disabled.
You can also protect your computer by using a password on the screen save
feature. This will help ensure that your computer isn't used when it is
left unattended while in MAXimize. Once the screen save feature is
activated, this password (or the creator password) is required to reenter
MAXimize. To use this security, press Alt+W P or the Ctrl+F10 short cut key
and then enter the password to use.
Input Prompts
=============
The Input prompt window is displayed when prompting for a single line of
text input. It is used for all selection text input requests. The window
will appear near the bottom of your screen. The top line of the window will
contain a message suggesting what you should enter as input. The input line
may be blank or contain a default value. You may then enter or change the
input using the keys described in the editing keys section. In addition,
you may use the following keys to display and change previous input to this
window:
Key: Action:
----------- -----------------------------
Up arrow Get previous input in buffer.
Down arrow Get next input in buffer.
PgUp Get oldest input in buffer.
PgDn Get newest input in buffer.
Each time you enter input into this window, it is added to an input "buffer"
of 500 characters in length. This buffer will contain multiple input
responses. Once the buffer becomes full, the oldest input(s) is removed as
new input is entered. By using the up arrow, down arrow, PgUp and PgDn
keys, you can scroll through prior inputs. Once you have located the
desired input, you may modify it (if need be) and then hit Enter.
For example, select "Execute a DOS command" on the MAXimize SAMPLES menu.
The input prompt window will pop-up at the bottom of your screen:
++ Enter DOS command, program, batch file or press enter for DOS prompt: ++
| |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Cancel > < Help > |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
Then enter a DOS command such as DIR /W. Choose this selection several
times, each time entering a different command, such as, VER and CHKDSK. Now,
choose this selection one last time. Instead of entering a command, use the
up arrow key to display the prior ones. Be sure to try each of the editing
keys listed previously.
19
Quitting MAXimize
=================
To leave MAXimize press Alt+F X or the F9 short cut key. Also, a selection,
such as "Quit MAXimize" on the SAMPLES menu, can be selected to exit
MAXimize.
Advanced Topics
===============
This section covers topics related to using the menus that are not required
reading. You should be comfortable with the prior sections of chapter 1
before proceeding. You should read those topics below that you have an
interest in. For example, if you have a mouse installed, you will probably
be interested in reading the next section.
Using a Mouse
=============
A mouse is a hand operated pointing device that can be attached to your
computer. The mouse has up to three buttons that the computer can sense are
being depressed. MAXimize will use the right and left buttons only. When
MAXimize is first started, the mouse will not appear. To use the mouse,
simply roll the mouse across your mouse pad or desk top and the mouse will
appear on the screen as a square box. If the mouse does not appear, either
your options have been set to disable it or the mouse has not been installed
correctly.
Before explaining how to use your mouse, the following terminology should be
understood:
Pointer.......The square box that is displayed when you move the mouse.
Point.........Move the mouse across your desk until the mouse pointer is
on a specific area of the screen (usually within a
selection's description).
Release.......Let up on the mouse button.
Click.........Quickly press and release the left button.
Double-Click..Click to highlight the selection and then click again.
Drag..........Hold the left button down on a specific area and then drag
it around the screen by rolling your mouse across the desk.
The mouse can be used to do the following:
> Display the help message for a selection in the menu. For menus where
a help message does or may appear, point to a selection and click.
This will highlight the selection and display the help message (if
any). This help message will either be in, or just above, the bottom
border.
> Choose a selection from a menu. Point to the selection. Then for
menus where a help message MAY be defined, double click to choose it.
Otherwise, a click will choose the selection. NOTE: If item is already
highlighted, a single click will select the item.
20
> Move the selection bar. You can drag the selection bar from one
selection to another. This allows you to roll through the selections
and examining the help messages for them.
>
>
> Display a previous menu. For cascaded menus, you may return to a
previous menu simply by clicking on its window.
> Press the escape key. Quickly press and release the right button to
escape (just as if the Esc key had been pressed).
> Select keys shown in the status line. Point to the key in the status
line and click. For example, the status line may have F1=Help.
Clicking on this will cause the F1 key to be entered as if you pressed
it on the keyboard.
> Move the text cursor within or to another field. Point to where the
text cursor should be located and click.
> Toggle a setting on or off. Point to the toggle and click. If the
toggle was off it will be turned on and visa versa.
> Select an item in a list. Point to the item and click. A dot will be
placed in the parenthesis that are to the left of the item.
> Depress a Button. Point to the button and click. The action
associated to the button is done.
For windows with vertical or horizontal scroll bars:
> Move the selection bar. Click on the window borders. Click on the top
border to move up, the bottom border to move down, the left border to
move left and the right corners to move right.
> Scroll the window. Click on the arrow icons to scroll the window in
the direction of the arrow icon.
> Page up or down. Click on the scroll bar above the scroll box to page
up and below the scroll box to page down.
> Change location of selection bar or text cursor. Drag the scroll box
to the desired percentage into the menu/text and release. The
selection bar text cursor will be placed accordingly. For example,
dragging the scroll box to the middle of the scroll bar will place the
selection bar on the middle selection.
21
Hot Keys
========
Hot keys allow you to invoke applications without having to navigate to a
menu to choose the desired selection. This is particularly useful for often
used applications, such as an editor. To view the menu of hot keys press
Alt+F H or the F7 short cut key from any menu in the main window. The
following is the hot keys menu:
File Edit Options Window Help
+-----------------------------+ Main Menu +-----------------------------+
|+------------------------------+ Hot Keys +-----------------------------+
|| |
|| |
|| Ctrl+A Alter DOS PATH Ctrl+N |
|| Ctrl+B Ctrl+O Print order form |
|| Ctrl+C Ctrl+P |
|| Ctrl+D Ctrl+Q |
|| Ctrl+E Ctrl+R |
|| Ctrl+F Ctrl+S |
|| Ctrl+G Ctrl+T |
|| Ctrl+H Ctrl+U |
|| Ctrl+I Ctrl+V |
|| Ctrl+J Ctrl+W |
|| Ctrl+K Ctrl+X |
|| Ctrl+L Ctrl+Y |
|| Ctrl+M Ctrl+Z |
|| |
+| |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------------+
MAXimize +=Select_Item ^v><=Next_Item Alt=Actions 07:11pm 30OCT92
The hot key selection IDs are Ctrl+? (where ? is A through Z). To choose a
hot key simply hold down the Ctrl key while pressing the desired letter (ex.
E for edit). This can be done even when the hot key menu is not displayed!
If you define your editor as Ctrl+E, it can easily be invoke by pressing
Ctrl+E even when the hot keys menu is not displayed.
If a hot key lacks a description (as Ctrl+B above), it has not been defined
and has no action. To define a hot key or update it, follow the section on
updating a selection. To leave the hot keys menu press Esc.
There are a few minor conflicts between the hot keys and the keys on your
keyboard. These conflicts occur when the hot key has the same internal
representation as another key. These conflicts are:
Hot Key: Same as:
-------- ----------
Ctrl+H Backspace
Ctrl+I Tab
Ctrl+M Enter
Ctrl+C Ctrl+Break
Ctrl+J Ctrl+Enter
22
MAXimize can handle the first three in this list by detecting that the Ctrl
key is depressed. However, the last two appear to be the same keystroke and
will always cause the hot key to be selected. If this is a problem, do not
use these hot keys.
Try using the hot keys while they are NOT displayed. First display the main
menu by pressing \ and then enter Ctrl+A. This will display the current DOS
PATH and allow you to modify it. You may modify the DOS PATH by adding a
directory at the end of the PATH and pressing the Enter key. Otherwise,
simply press Esc to abort the execution of this selection.
Invoking MAXimize with Parameters
=================================
When invoking MAXimize, you may include parameters. For example, if you
would like to start at a menu other than the main menu, follow MAX or MENU
with the menu name to start at. The following switches are optional:
/B Initialize the colors to have black backgrounds. Sets colors for
screens that cannot display them (like monochrome screens).
/K Are keys to be entered after MAXimize starts (as if they were entered
from the keyboard). This allows selections to be invoked when
starting MAXimize (especially from an AUTOEXEC.BAT file). Hot keys
are represented by the @ sign followed by the desired key (ex. @A is
Ctrl+A). Use @@ to represent a single @ sign.
/A Is an alternate main menu. This overrides the main menu defined in
the options. This could be used in combination with the SESSION.BAT
file from a task switcher to cause each session to have a different
main menu.
/Q Disables quitting from MAXimize and the DOS shell functions. This
feature would be used when you do not want the users of MAXimize to
use the DOS prompt. This switch will disable the Esc key quitting
when the user is viewing the main menu, the F9 key quitting, a
selection quitting, and the F8 key shelling to the DOS prompt.
/M The batch file used to invoke MAX. This switch must be used only
when MAX has been invoked by a batch file.
/U The user ID to use for a shared PC or LAN support. This allows for
multiple users with different configurations to run off the same copy
of MAXimize on a single PC. Also, it provides for multiple users to
run off the same copy of MAXimize on a LAN. The default for this
switch is MAXIMIZE. Environment variable ID can be set instead of
specifying this switch. Please refer to Appendix C, for more
information on this.
For example, to display the SAMPLES menu and then cause the keys "A", Ctrl+C
and "@" to be entered:
23
C>CHDIR \MAX
C>MENU SAMPLES /KA@C@@
Using MAXimize with a Task Switcher
====================================
One capability you may want to combine with MAXimize is the ability to
switch between several tasks. For example, you may want to switch between
your word processor and spread sheet programs without leaving either. There
is a number of task switching type software on the market. From the lowly
DOSSHELL provided with DOS 5.0, to Software Carousel, Microsoft's Windows
3.1 and IBM's OS/2 2.0. Any one of which allows you to switch between
multiple DOS applications without exiting any of them.
Merging MAXimize with these task switchers provides you with the best of
both. MAXimize will fill the short-comings in these task switchers (namely,
a great DOS menu), while the task switcher allows you to switch between
multiple tasks. All you have to do is set the task switcher to invoke
sessions of MAXimize. Then from each session, either the desired MAXimize
selection can be chosen automatically or the user can select what they want
to do. Finally, the user simply switches between the sessions of MAXimize
using the task switcher to bounce between their tasks (word processor,
spread sheet, utilities, etc.)
To add MAXimize sessions to your task switcher you will need to add a
selection (program item in the DOSSHELL) for each session. Define the
selection with:
1. An appropriate program title (eq. "MAXimize session 1" or "Word
Processing Task")
2. A command of "SESSION.BAT ? [parameters]", where the question mark
should be replaced with the session identifier (an alpha-numeric, one
digit ID) and "[parameters] "are any valid parameters of MAX.EXE. The
following parameters are of particular interest:
/Amain - to define a different main menu for this session than the
other sessions
/Q - to disallow quitting and shelling to DOS from this session
/Uuserid - to have different options (like colors) for each session,
use a different user ID.
/Kkeys - to cause a selection to execute when a session starts
(like the word processing selection for the "Word
processing session").
3. A startup directory of the one MAXimize was installed in (eq. C:\MAX)
4. Provide as much conventionally memory as needed by the application.
Generally, you should specify as much as your computer can provide.
For example, about 550k can be specified with the DOSSHELL on a machine
with 2MB of RAM. At a minimum, supply at least 192k for MAXimize if no
updating of the setup is to be done in this session. If you want to
update MAXimize's setup in this session, supply at least 384k.
24
The result of combining a task switcher with MAXimize is a powerful DOS menu
environment that allows you to switch between the programs you have invoked
without having to leave them. This is truly the best of both worlds. Even
if you have DOS 5.0, you can use the DOSSHELL as a task switcher. If you
find this capability useful, you may then want to look into purchasing
another task switcher.
Go To DOS
=========
If you want to suspend MAXimize and enter commands at the DOS prompt, press
Alt+F D or the F8 short cut key. This will display the DOS prompt and allow
you to enter any number of commands. To return to MAXimize, do NOT invoke
it. Instead, type EXIT at the DOS prompt and press Enter. This will return
you to MAXimize where it was suspended.
25
Chapter 2: Modifying Menus
==========================
Overview
========
This chapter discusses the modification of "user" menus and their
selections. These user menus are those menus that appear in the main (large)
window, including the main menu, any sub-menus below it and the hot keys.
The modification of hot keys should be treated the same as selections.
Differences, if any, will be noted.
When changing a menu or the hot keys be sure to back these files up (as with
any other files on your computer). You may use the DOS COPY/BACKUP command
or any of several backup facilities on the market.
Menu modification can be split into two categories: modifying
characteristics of the menu and modifying selections. The former refers to
items specific to the menu and all of its selections, such as the menu
title, password and type of selection ID. The latter refers to adding,
deleting, updating and other modifications to a specific selection(s).
Notice, there is no mention of adding or deleting a sub-menu. This is done
through the adding/deleting of a selection. For example, to add a sub-menu
to an existing menu, simply add a selection and enter the name of the
new/existing sub-menu. To delete a sub-menu, simply delete the selection
that displays it.
Updating a menu or selection always follows this sequence:
1. Display the menu to be changed. Simply choose the normal selection(s)
from the user menus until the desired menu is displayed as explained
in chapter 1. To display the hot keys, press the F7 key.
2. If selections are to be modified, then mark the selection(s). To
modify one selection, simply highlight it with the selection bar. To
modify multiple selections, mark them using the space bar.
3. Display the edit drop down menu by pressing Alt+E.
4. Now choose the desired operation: add, update, delete, copy or
transfer (move) selection(s). Or choose menu to modify the menu
characteristics. If there is a setup password, you will have enter it
at this point.
5. Follow the directions for the specific operation you chose.
The setup password prompt in step 4 and/or the slight delay caused by the
setup program load may become annoying especially when doing multiple
operations. If this happens, you may want to use the Update Mode, which
will be discussed in the chapter covering Options.
26
Marking Selection(s)
====================
After displaying the desired menu, you must then mark the selection(s) to be
modified. If only one selection is to be changed, then highlight it by
positioning the selection bar on it. It you want to modify several
selections on ONE menu with a single operation (like update), then you must
first mark those selections.
To mark selections, position the selection bar on them and press the space
bar. A check mark will be placed to the left of the selection indicating it
has been marked. The selection bar will then be moved to the next
selection. You may mark as many selections as desired by repeatedly
pressing the space bar. To mark all the selections on a menu, simply press
Alt+E L or hold down the Ctrl key and press the right arrow short cut key.
Choosing a selection or leaving the menu will automatically remove the marks
from the selections.
To remove a mark on a selection, again position the selection bar on the
selection and press the space bar. The check mark will disappear. Thus,
the space bar will toggle the check mark on and off. To remove all marks,
press Alt+E E or hold down the Ctrl key and press the left arrow short cut
key.
Text Block Operations
=====================
The following are additional editing keys available when editing multiple
lines of text. These multiple line text areas are identified by both a
vertical and horizontal scroll bar. Multiple line text editing is used when
editing batch commands, menu text and help text, which are explained later.
Key: Action:
----------- ---------------------------------------------
Up arrow Up one line
Down arrow Down one line
Ctrl+PgUp Place cursor on first visible line of text
Ctrl+PgDn Place cursor on last visible line of text
Ctrl+Home Go to start of text
Ctrl+End Go to end of text
Ctrl+N Insert a line above the line the cursor is on
Ctrl+Y Delete the line cursor is on
Ctrl+P Imbed control characters
Ctrl+R Read text from a file (inserted into current
text at cursor)
Ctrl+S Save text in a file (either marked block or
all the text)
Ctrl+E Displays edit menu - read/write and block
operations
Enter Insert mode: a line is inserted.
Overwrite mode: go to next line.
The Ctrl+P key allows you to enter control characters into your text.
Control characters are those represented by ASCII codes 0 to 31. To enter a
control character, hold down the Ctrl key, then press the letter P followed
27
by the desired control key. For example, hold the Ctrl key down and press
the letter P and then Z. This will result in the right arrow symbol being
imbedded into the text.
When editing multiple lines of text, you can mark part of the text as a
"block". Then the block of text can be deleted, cut, copied and pasted
somewhere else. A mouse provides the easiest way to mark a block of text.
Simply position the mouse pointer on the screen to the start or end of the
text block. Then drag the mouse to the opposite corner of the block of text
and release the mouse. As you drag the mouse the block of text will be
highlighted.
You can mark a block of text without a mouse by holding the shift key down
and pressing the direction keys (ie. arrows, Home, End, PgUp, PgDn). First
position the cursor to the start or end of the block of text. Then hold the
shift key down and press the required direction keys to highlight the block.
Once the block has been marked, you can then press Alt+E to display the edit
menu and choose to:
Operation: Keystroke: Description:
---------- ---------- -----------------------------------------
Cut Shift+Del remove block of text and put in clipboard
Copy Ctrl+Enter put block of text in clipboard
Clear Del remove block of text
Save Alt+S save block of text to a file
To paste the contents of the clipboard somewhere else, position the cursor
where the text is to be inserted. Then press Alt+E to display the edit menu
and select Paste or press Shift+Ins. The contents of the clipboard will
remain unchanged. Thus, you may paste the contents in the clipboard as many
times as you like.
Selection Formats (Types)
=========================
MAXimize has the following selection formats that determine what the
selection can do:
> Run a single program, command or batch file
> Display a new or existing menu
> Command stream (this is a batch file stored in the selection itself)
When you add a selection or update an empty hot key (no description), you
must decide what format (from above) to use. Then based on the format, one
of the selection update screens is displayed. When you update a selection,
MAXimize determines the proper format and displays the appropriate update
screen.
Next, each selection format and its associated update window will be
covered. This includes a description of the fields within the selection
update windows and how MAXimize processes that type of selection.
28
Run a Program, Command or Batch File
====================================
This type of selection is used when running a single program, command or
batch file. The selection update window will look like the following:
+----------+ Selection to run a program, command or batch file +----------+
| |
| Description: |
| Program: |
| |
+-- Optional v -----------------------------------------------------------+
| |
| Directory: |
| Parameters: |
| Prompt: |
| Track By: |
| Password: |
| ID letter: < Not allowed due to current menu's ID Type. |
| |
| [ ] Pause after program runs [ ] Shell directly to program |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Update Help > < Format > < Cancel > < Help > |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
The fields in this window are:
Description is the text shown on the menu and describes what the
selection does. If the menu uses the first character of the
description for the selection ID, be sure that it is unique
for this menu. This is a required field.
Program is the program, command or batch file to run. Simply enter
what you normally enter at the DOS prompt up to the first
blank (anything after the first blank is parameters). This
file does not have to be fully qualified (that is, include
the drive and directory in the file name). MAXimize will
automatically search your hard disk(s) to find it if it is
not fully qualified. This is a required field. To search
your disk drives for a program, simply Tab to this field and
press the F6 key.
Directory is the working directory to switch to before running the
program, command or batch file. MAXimize will make the
specified drive and directory current before running the
program. To search your hard disk for a directory, simply
Tab to this field and press the F6 key.
Parameters are the parameters passed to the program, command or batch
file. If your program is "VIEW" and your parameter is
"C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT", then the resulting command would be "VIEW
C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT".
29
Prompt is the window title used when prompting for parameters to
pass the program, command or batch file. The default text
for the parameters is supplied by the "parameters" field.
This allows for the entry or modification of the parameters
passed to the program. If this field is blank, then this
prompting for parameters is not done.
Track By Is the unique identification to use for this selection when
usage logging is desired. Normally the program name being
ran is specified here. This value is also used for the
license control process. Please review the chapter titled
Controlling and Monitoring Access.
Password protects the selection. Before the selection can be executed
or altered this password must be entered. Also, the
selection will be encoded in the menu file stored on disk
when password protected. If this field is blank, the
selection will not be protected.
ID Letter is the letter to highlight in the description. This letter
can then be pressed to invoke this selection. Be careful to
specify a unique letter. Also, this letter is case sensitive,
so use the same case (upper or lower) as that in the
description. For example, X in eXit. This field is only
active when the menu has been defined as having the "specify
ID letter" type (see Update Menu Characteristics section in
this chapter).
Pause after program runs [ ]
When this toggle is on, the selection will pause, using the
PAUSE DOS command, after running the selection. This is
useful when the program or batch file does not pause.
Without the pause, anything written to the screen by the
program will be quickly replaced by MAXimize's screen.
Shell directly to program [ ]
When this toggle is on, MAXimize will not clear itself from
memory when running the selection. This can be slightly
faster. However, your application will have less memory
(about 100k) to work with.
The description and program fields are required. The remaining fields are
optional. MAXimize will process the selection in the following sequence:
1. If a password is specified then MAXimize will request that it be
entered.
2. If a prompt is specified then MAXimize will prompt for parameters to
pass the program. The "prompt" is a message indicating what
parameter(s) should be entered. The text specified in the parameters
will be the default. The user may then modify or enter parameters.
3. If a working directory is specified then MAXimize will change the
current drive and directory to the working drive and directory.
30
4. Run the program with the parameters. The parameters will be either
from the prompt or as specified if prompt was not specified. If the
shell is on then MAXimize will not clear itself from memory when
running the program.
5. If the pause toggle is on, then MAXimize will wait for any key stroke
after the program runs and before displaying the current menu.
Display a New or Existing Menu
==============================
This type of selection is used to display a new or existing menu. The
selection update window will look like the following:
+--------------------+ Selection to display a menu +----------------------+
| |
| Description: |
| Menu: +------- Existing menus to choose from: -------+ |
| | DBMS FLOPPY GAMES GRAPHICS LANGUAGE ^ |
| | MAIN MISC SAMPALPH SAMPDIR SAMPFEAT O |
| | SAMPFRMT SAMPFRST SAMPIDS SAMPLARG SAMPLES # |
| | SAMPLOG SAMPNOID SAMPNUMC SAMPPASS SAMPPRMP # |
| | SAMPSCRL SAMPSPEC SAMPUSE UTILITY {Keys} # |
| | {Main} {Prior} v |
| +----------------------------------------------+ |
+-- Optional v -----------------------------------------------------------+
| |
| Password: |
| ID letter: < Not allowed due to current menu's ID Type. |
| |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Update Help > < Format > < Cancel > < Help > |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
The fields in this window are:
Description is the text shown on the menu and describes what the
selection does. If the menu uses the first character of the
description for the selection ID, be sure that it is unique
for this menu. The description cannot be blank.
Menu is the next menu to be displayed by the selection. It must
conform to the standard DOS file name convention and may be
an existing, new or wild card menu name. The menu name is
also required. When a new menu name is entered, the menu
modification window will pop-up in the middle of the screen.
Follow the instructions for modifying menu characteristics.
Besides a menu name, you may specify the following:
31
Specify: Action:
-------- ---------------------------------
{Main} will return to the main menu
{Keys} will display the hot keys
{Prior} will return to the previous menu
If the menu specified was displayed previously (in navigating
to the current menu), then MAXimize will return to this menu.
Existing menu names
provides a list of existing menus you may choose from
(although a new menu name may be entered in the menu field).
Password protects the selection. Before the selection can be executed
or altered this password must be entered. Also, the
selection will be encoded in the menu file stored on disk
when password protected. If this field is blank, the
selection will not be protected.
NOTE: This password will NOT protect a sub-menu displayed by
the selection! Instead, use the menu password to protect the
sub-menu.
ID Letter is the letter to highlight in the description. This letter
can then be pressed to invoke this selection. Be careful to
specify a unique letter. Also, this letter is case sensitive,
so use the same case (upper or lower) as that in the
description. For example, X in eXit. This field is only
active when the menu has been defined as having the "specify
ID letter" type (see Update Menu Characteristics section in
this chapter).
Only the description and menu name are required. If you want to display an
existing menu name, simply Tab to that field and select the desired menu.
The remaining fields are optional. MAXimize processes this type of
selection in the following sequence:
1.If a password is specified then MAXimize will request that it be
entered.
2.Display the menu specified. If the menu is a new menu, than it will
contain no selections at first. You must then add selections to this
sub-menu. If the menu specified was displayed previously (in
navigating to the current menu), then MAXimize will return to this
menu.
Command Stream
==============
This type of selection is used to run a stream of commands. These commands
have the same format as a batch command file, with a minor exception and
many added capabilities. Often, these are the same commands you would enter
from the DOS prompt to do a task (such as invoking a program). However,
there are many additional capabilities as mentioned earlier that can make
this a very powerful tool. The selection update window will look like the
following:
32
+----------------------+ Selection to run commands +----------------------+
| Description: |
+--- Commands: -----------------------------------------------------------+
| ^
| O
| #
| #
| #
| #
| #
| #
| v
+ 1: 1<O##############################################################>+
+-- Optional v -----------------------------------------------------------+
| Parameters: |
| Prompt: |
| Track By: |
| Password: Shell:[ ] Quit:[ ] Menu: ID letter: |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Update Help > < Format > < Cancel > < Help > |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
The fields in this window are:
Description is the text shown on the menu and describes what the
selection does. If the menu uses the first character of the
description for the selection ID, be sure that it is unique
for this menu. The description cannot be blank.
Commands are the DOS commands, programs or batch files to be executed.
Often, these are the same as those entered at the DOS prompt
to invoke a program. You may have up to 99 lines. They must
conform to the normal batch file conventions except the SHIFT
command will not work and %0 contains the first parameter.
Also, batch files executed must include the .BAT extension or
be preceded by a tilde (~) sign. Unless you want to use the
current drive and directory, be sure to change them both.
For example, C: will change to the C drive and CHDIR \NEWDIR
will change to the \NEWDIR directory. The commands specified
will be placed into a batch file and then executed.
Parameters are the parameters passed to the commands, just as parameters
are passed to a batch file. In the commands, use the
variables %0, %1, %2,...,%9 to refer to the first through
tenth parameter. The SHIFT DOS command will not shift the
parameters here. This is because the parameters are filled
in by MAXimize before the commands are ever executed by DOS.
33
Prompt is the text of the input prompt when prompting for parameters
to pass the commands. The default text for the parameters is
supplied by the "parameters" field. This allows for the
entry or modification of the parameters passed to the
commands. If this field is blank, then no prompting for
parameters is done.
Track By Is the unique identification to use for this selection when
usage logging is desired. Normally the program name being
ran is specified here. This value is also used for the
license control process. Please review the chapter titled
Controlling and Monitoring Access.
Password protects the selection. Before the selection can be executed
or altered the password must be entered. Also, the selection
will be encoded in the menu file stored on disk when password
protected. If this field is blank, the selection will not be
protected.
NOTE: This password will NOT protect a sub-menu displayed by
the selection! Instead, use the menu password to protect the
sub-menu.
Shell [ ] When this toggle is on, MAXimize will not clear itself from
memory when running the selection. This can be slightly
faster. However, your application will have less memory
(about 100k) to work with.
Quit [ ] When this toggle is on, the selection will run (executing any
commands) and then MAXimize will quit (returning the user to
the DOS prompt). This is used to create a selection that
quits MAXimize.
Menu is the next menu to be displayed by the selection. It must
conform to the standard DOS file name convention and may be
an existing, new or wild card menu name. If you specify a
wild card (* or ?), then a list of existing menus that match
the wild card will be displayed. You may then choose an
existing menu name from that list. When a new menu name is
entered, the menu modification window will pop-up in the
middle of the screen. Follow the instructions for modifying
menu characteristics. Also, the menu name can be the
following:
Specify: Action:
-------- ---------------------------------
{Main} will return to the main menu
{Keys} will display the hot keys
{Prior} will return to the previous menu
If the menu specified was displayed previously (in navigating
to the current menu), then MAXimize will return to this menu.
ID Letter is the letter to highlight in the description. This letter
can then be pressed to invoke this selection. Be careful to
specify a unique letter. Also, this letter is case sensitive,
34
so use the same case (upper or lower) as that in the
description. For example, X in eXit. This field is only
active when the menu has been defined as having the "specify
ID letter" type (see Update Menu Characteristics section in
this chapter).
The description and commands fields are required. However, it is possible
to specify a remark in the commands if you do not want to specify commands.
To do this simply type REM in the command field. All other fields are
optional. MAXimize processes this type of selection in the following
sequence:
1. If a password is specified then MAXimize will request that it be
entered.
2. If a prompt is specified then MAXimize will prompt for parameters to
pass the commands. The "prompt" is a message indicating what
parameter(s) should be entered. The text specified as the parameters
will be the default. The user may then modify or enter parameters.
3. "Compile" the commands. This process will resolve all functions and
variable references (except environment variables). This includes
references to the parameters. It also removes remarks and adds code
for batch files that are invoked. Be sure that batch files in the
commands are preceded by a tilde (~) sign (without this, MAXimize may
not re-invoke itself). The resulting commands are then written to a
batch file.
4. If there were commands for DOS, MAXimize will run the commands
through DOS using the batch file created in step 3. If the shell
toggle is on then MAXimize will not clear itself from memory when
running the commands.
5. If the quit toggle is on, MAXimize will quit, returning the user to
DOS prompt.
6. If menu is specified, then the requested menu is displayed. If the
menu specified was displayed previously (in navigating to the current
menu), then MAXimize will return to this menu.
When specifying your commands, you may want to search your disk drives for a
program or directory. To do this, simply press the F6 key.
The commands specified can be as simple as the commands you normally enter
at the DOS prompt to do something. They may be the same as a batch file
with the exceptions noted. Or they can be more complex, using variables and
functions. They may even set variables. At first, you probably will start
off simple. Later, you can read the advance section to learn about
variables and functions.
Switching Selection Format
==========================
It is possible to switch between the "run a program, command or batch file"
or "Display a new or existing menu" formats and the "Command stream" format.
While viewing the selection update window, press the format button to
switch the format.
35
If you are currently in the "Command stream" format, then MAXimize will
attempt to reformat the selection. If the syntax within the commands or the
parameters specified cannot be recreated using the other formats, then the
format switch will fail.
The main intent is to allow you to switch formats to the "Command stream",
which may be needed to get the additional capabilities provided. However,
the tradeoff is that the "Command stream" format is slightly more complex
and does no error checking of the commands.
Searching for a Program or Directory
====================================
When MAXimize requests a program/command/batch file or a directory
specification, it also gives you the capability to search for it on your
disk drives. To do this, press the F6 key. When this feature is available,
the status line will show this (F6=Search). The following shows the screen
with the search window:
+--------------------+ Search for program +--------------------+
| +- Current file specification -----------------------------+ |
| | C:\MAX\*.*** | |
| +----------------------------------------------------------+ |
| +- Dirs/Drives -+ +- Files/Programs -----------------------+ |
| | . ^ | ABC.BAT ASK.COM BEEP.COM ^ |
| | .. O | MAX-CNVT.EXE MAX-MNUX.BAT MAX-SET.EXE O |
| | TEMP # | MAX.EXE MENU.BAT SESSION.BAT # |
| | [ A: ] # | VIEW.EXE # |
| | [ B: ] # | # |
| | v | v |
| +---------------+ +----------------------------------------+ |
| Use extension *** to list only COM, EXE, BAT and BTM files |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Cancel > < Help > |
+--------------------------------------------------------------+
The search window has three fields/boxes. The top box contains the current
file specification. You may change this file specification and include DOS
wild cards. MAXimize uses a special extension of .*** to search for programs
and batch files only.
The lower left box contains sub-directories and other drives. You may
select one of these to change to a new drive or directory. The period (.)
directory is the root directory. The double period (..) directory is the
prior (parent) directory.
The lower right box contains files and programs. You may select one of
these when searching for a program/file.
Be aware that the type of search (for program or directory) depends on the
field the cursor was in when the F6 key was pressed. The file/directory
chosen is placed in the field where the cursor was located (except in the
"command stream" format).
36
Update Menu Characteristics
===========================
Menu characteristics are those items that pertain to the menu and all of its
selections as a group. These items are the title of the menu, the type of
selection ID, and the password to protect the menu. Items specific to a
selection are not included. Menu characteristics may not be modified for
the hot keys menu. To modify a menu follow these steps:
1. Display the menu to be modified.
2. Press Alt+E U M or the + short cut key. The menu modification window
will pop-up on the screen:
+-----------------+ Menu name: SAMPLES +------------------+
| Title: MAXimize Samples |
| |
| Password: |
| |
| ID Type: (_) Alpha-numeric digit |
| ( ) First character of description |
| ( ) Numeric digit(s) |
| ( ) Point and press only (no ID) |
| ( ) Specify the ID letter in each description |
+---------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Update Text > < Cancel > < Help > |
+---------------------------------------------------------+
The title line of the menu modification window contains the menu name (in
the example above it is Samples). The window contains these fields:
Title is a description of the contents of the menu. For example,
"Games" might be the title of a menu containing selections
that invoke games. This title is displayed in the middle of
the menu's top border line. If this field is blank, the menu
will have no title.
Password protects the menu and its selections. Before the menu is
displayed, this password must be entered. This protects the
menu and its selections from being transferred since the menu
must first be displayed before it can be altered. The menu
file stored on disk will be encoded when password protected.
If this field is blank, the menu will not be protected.
NOTE: Do not password protect the main menu. Instead, use the
"entry" password of the options or password protect selections
on the main menu.
ID Type determines the identifier shown to the left of each selection
and the key stroke(s) used to choose a selection. Choose the
desired type:
37
ID Type: Explanation:
------------ ------------------------------------------
First ID is first character of selection's
character description.
Numeric Numeric IDs - 1 through 99
Alphanumeric ID is alphanumeric - A to Z then 0 to 9.
This limits menu to 36 selections.
Specify ID The selection will specify which letter in
the description to user (ex. X in eXit).
Point and Selections have no ID. User must move
Press selection bar to item and press Enter key.
Modify or fill in the desired fields. Use the Tab, Shift+Tab and arrow
4.
keys to move the cursor between and within the fields.
Press to OK button or the Enter key to accept the modifications. Press
5.
the cancel button or the Esc key to cancel any changes.
Menu Modification Exercise
--------------------------
Now, use a sample menu and change its title. Then change the ID type to
each of the five selection ID types - each time viewing the result of this
change to the menu. While doing this, try the keys for moving between the
fields of the menu window. Then add some text to the menu as described
above.
Adding Text to a Menu
=====================
You can display up to ten lines of text on a menu (not the hot keys). This
text will be displayed at the top of the menu, just under the title. The
text will be enclosed in a single line box. You could put your company
name, your name, A logo or an explanation of the menu in this box. You
could even put the title of the menu in the text box instead of in the title
line. An example of this feature is the SAMPFEAT menu:
38
File Edit Options Window Help
+----------------------------+ Main Menu +------------------------------+
|+-----------------------------+ Samples +-------------------------------+
||+----------------------+ MAXimize Features Menu +-----------------------+
||| +-----------------------------------------------------------+ |
||| | +=+ +======+ +======+ +======+ | |
||| | " " " +==+ " " +====+ " +==+ " | |
||| | " " " " " " " " +===+ " " " " | |
||| | " " " " " " " " ++ ++ " " " " | |
||| | " +====+ " +==+ " " +==+ " " +==+ " | |
||| | +======+ +======+ +======+ +======+ | |
||| | Add your company name, logo or an explanation of the menu | |
||| +-----------------------------------------------------------+ |
||| 1 View/Print Documentation ^
||| 2 Menus can hold up to 99 selections on one menu O
||| 3 Menus will be scrolled if descriptions won't fit on screen #
||| 4 Five types of selection IDs #
||| 5 Hot keys that can be invoked from any menu (Key=F7) #
||| 6 There are three selection formats #
+|| 7 Selections may prompt for input from user #
+| 8 Conditional prompting/execution using the &IF and &GOTO functions v
++ View/Print MAXimize documentation +----------------------------------+
MAXimize +=Select_Item ^v><=Next_Item Alt=Actions 07:12pm 30OCT92
Adding text to a menu is easy. First, type the Alt+E M U keys to modify the
menu and then press the update button. This will display the menu text
window. Now type the desired text. Then press the Esc key to return to the
menu modification window and depress the OK button or the Enter key to
accept the changes to the menu.
You can create your own logo, like the one above. On the back of the
reference card is an ASCII character table. The first 32 characters are
"control" characters. To enter these, hold the Ctrl key down and press P
followed by the associated control character (ie. C for a heart shape).
Characters above decimal 126 (the tilde ~ sign), must be entered by holding
the Alt key down and pressing the number on the numeric key pad. Thus,
holding the Alt key down while typing 179 will result in a vertical line.
The characters represented by number 179 to 218, are line draw characters.
These characters can be used together to make lines, like those above. To
create your own logo use your imagination and experiment.
Add a Selection / Sub-Menu
==========================
The main purpose of a selection is to invoke a program/command/batch file
and/or display a sub-menu. If the sub-menu to be displayed is new, then it
will be added.
39
You may add a selection to a menu, as long as the maximum number of
selections has not been used. The maximum is 99 for all menus, except those
with alpha-numeric type ID's that allows for 36 selections. Remember,
selections cannot be added to the hot keys menu. To add a selection follow
these steps:
1. Display the menu where the selection is to be added.
2. If the menu has selections, move selection bar to where the selection is
to be added.
3. Press Alt+E A or the Insert short cut key and the "add" window will
appear:
+----------------+ Add Selection +-----------------+
| |
| Where: (_) After highlighted selection |
| ( ) Before highlighted selection |
| |
| Format: (_) Run a program, command or batch file |
| ( ) Display a new or existing menu |
| ( ) Command stream (Batch commands) |
| |
+--------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Cancel > < Help > |
+--------------------------------------------------+
4. The "add" window allows you to choose where to add a selection and the
format of the selection. Reply A to add after, or B to add before the
selection highlighted by the selection bar. Note: If the menu currently
lacks selections, then the location is not significant and this is
ignored.
Next, you must choose the format of the selection. This is a decision
on what the selection will do:
> Run a single program, command of batch file
> Display a new or existing menu
> Command stream (this is a batch file stored in the selection)
Press R, D or C for the desired format and then press Enter to continue.
5. A selection window based on the specified format type will be displayed.
The description of these windows and the fields they contain were
presented in the overview at the start of this chapter.
6. Fill in the desired fields. Use the Tab, Shift+Tab and arrow keys to
move the cursor between and within the fields.
7. When the selection is complete, press the OK button or the Enter key to
accept the selection. Press the cancel button or the Esc key to cancel
the selection add.
40
Add a Selection Exercises
-------------------------
Let's add a selection at the bottom of the main menu. Follow these steps:
1. Display the last selection on the main menu by typing \ and then the End
key.
2. Type Alt+E A A D for add a selection that displays a menu after the
current selection. Then press the Enter key to continue. The selection
update window for a sub-menu will be displayed.
3. Type a description of "Add selection exercise".
4. Using the Tab key, position the cursor in Sub-menu. Type a sub-menu name
of "SAMPADD".
5. Press the Enter key to accept the selection.
6. The menu modification window will appear. Type a title of "Add selection
exercise".
7. Press the Enter key again to accept the menu modification.
8. A selection has been added to the main menu that displays a sub-menu.
Choose this new selection. The SAMPADD menu will be displayed, with no
selections.
Let's add another selection, this time to the SAMPADD menu just added and
displayed above.
1. Press the Alt+E A R keys to add a selection that runs a program, command
or batch file. Then press the Enter key to continue.
2. Type a description of "Directory display".
3. Press the Tab key to position the cursor within the program field. Then
type a program name of "DIR".
4. Press Alt+A to position the cursor in the "parameters" field. Type a
parameter of "/P".
5. Press the down arrow key until the cursor is in the pause toggle field.
Now press the space bar to turn the pause toggle on.
6. Hit the Enter key to accept the selection.
7. You have now added a selection that will display the contents of the
current directory (DIR /P). After the directory is displayed, the
computer pauses until you've pressed a key. Try running this selection.
41
Update a Selection
==================
All of the fields in a selection may be updated. This allows for the
correction or improvement of a selection added previously. Undefined hot
keys (those that have no description) may be defined through the update
process. To update a selection follow these steps:
1. Display the menu containing the selection to be updated or display the
hot keys by pressing the F7 key.
2. Mark the selection(s) to be updated. For single selections, position the
selection bar on the selection to be updated. For multiple selections,
use the space bar to mark them.
3. Press Alt+E U S or the equal (=) short cut key to update the
selection(s).
4. If you are updating an empty hot key (no description), then you must
choose the format of the selection. This is a decision on what the
selection will do:
> Run a single program, command of batch file
> Display a new or existing menu
> Command stream (this is a batch file stored in the selection)
Press R, D or C for the desired format.
5. One of the selection update windows will appear on your screen (depending
on the selection format). These selection update windows and their
fields were covered earlier in the overview section of this chapter.
These are the same windows used to add a selection, except the fields are
not blank.
6. Modify the desired fields.
7. When the changes are complete, press the OK button or the Enter key to
accept the selection. To cancel the update press the Cancel button or
the Esc key.
Update Selection Exercise
-------------------------
Let's update the directory display selection added previously in the add
selection exercise. Follow these steps:
1. Display the SAMPADD menu and position the selection bar on the "Directory
display" selection. Then type = to update the selection.
2. Using the down arrow key, position the cursor on the parameters field and
change "/P" to "/W"
3. Hit the Enter key to accept the change.
42
4. Choose the updated selection. You will notice that the directory display
is now "compressed". That is, it displays only the file names and wraps
them across the screen.
Copy or Transfer a Selection
============================
Copying a selection results in a duplicate selection in another location.
Transferring a selection results in the selection being moved to a new
location. To copy/transfer a selection follow these steps:
1. Display the menu containing the desired selection or display the hot keys
by pressing the F7 key.
2. Mark the selection(s) to be copied or transferred. For a single
selection, position the selection bar on the desired selection. To copy
or transfer multiple selections, use the space bar to mark them. Note,
only one selection can be copied or transferred to the hot keys at a
time.
3. To copy a selection press Alt+E C or the Ctrl+Insert short cut key. To
transfer a selection press Alt+E T or the Ctrl+Delete short cut key.
4. You must now locate where the selection(s) is to be copied or
transferred. While in this "find" mode, "Copy:" or "Transfer:" will
appear in the lower left corner of the screen. You may choose only those
selections that display sub-menus. Also, you should use the normal
navigation keys (\, Esc, F7) to move between menus. To abort the copy or
transfer, press the F9 key.
5. Once the menu to receive the selections has been displayed, place the
selection bar where the selection(s) should be inserted or on the
selection to be replaced. Note, if the menu currently lacks selections,
then there is no need to position the selection bar.
6. Press slash (/) to continue.
7. If the menu already had selections, you may choose to insert the
selection before or after the current selection or to replace it. NOTE:
When copying or transferring to the hot keys, you are forced to select
"replace", since selections cannot be inserted into them.
8. If you choose to replace a selection that displays a sub-menu, you will
then have to choose whether to delete this sub-menu.
Copy/Transfer a Selection Exercises
-----------------------------------
Copy the first selection from the main menu to the SAMPADD menu (added
previously in add selection exercise). Follow these steps:
1. Display the first selection on the main menu by typing \ and then the
Home key. Press Alt+E C to copy this selection.
43
2. Choose "Add selection exercise" to display the SAMPADD menu.
3. Type /B to copy the selection before the first selection on the SAMPADD
menu.
Follow these steps to copy from the hot keys menu to the SAMPADD menu:
1. Display the hot keys menu by pressing F7. Position the selection bar on
the hot key to be copied (for example, Ctrl+A). Press the sort cut key
Ctrl+Insert to copy the selection.
2. Display the SAMPADD menu by typing \ and then choosing "Add selection
exercise".
3. Position the selection bar on the first selection (copied previously from
the main menu). Then press /R to replace the first selection with the
hot key being copied.
4. The selection being replaced may display a sub-menu. If so, you will
need to select "No" so this sub-menu is not deleted.
Transfer first selection from the SAMPADD menu to a hot key. Follow these
steps:
1. The selection bar should be positioned on the first selection of the
SAMPADD menu. Press the Alt+E T keys to transfer this selection.
2. Press F7 to display the hot keys menu. Then position the selection bar
on the hot key to be replaced (for example, Ctrl+Z). The hot key chosen
should not have a description (for this exercise).
3. Type /R to replace the hot key with the selection being transferred.
Note: selection has been moved from the SAMPADD menu to the hot key.
Delete a Selection / Sub-Menu
=============================
Deleting a selection removes it from the menu. Deleting a hot key causes
the selection to be cleared but not removed. When the selection displays a
sub-menu, you may choose to delete the sub-menu. To delete, follow these
steps:
1. Display the menu containing the selection to be deleted or display the
hot keys by pressing the F7 key.
2. Mark the selections to be deleted. To mark a single selection, position
the selection bar on it. Use the space bar to mark multiple selections
to be deleted.
3. To delete the selection press Alt+E D or the Delete short cut key. Then
depress the Delete button to confirm the deletion.
44
4. If the selection(s) displays a sub-menu, then you will be asked if the
sub-menu should be deleted. Respond "Yes" to delete and "No" to leave
the sub-menu. Press the Esc key to abort the delete operation.
CAUTION: If you choose to delete the sub-menu, be sure that no other
selection also displays this sub-menu! Also, sub-menus below the sub-menu
being deleted are not deleted and will become orphans if no remaining
selections display them. If you delete only the selection, the sub-menu
will become an orphan should no other selection display it.
NOTE: An orphan menu is not displayed by any selection.
Delete Selection/Menu Exercises
-------------------------------
Let's delete a selection on the SAMPADD menu (added previously in add
selection section). Follow these steps:
1. Display the SAMPADD menu by typing \ to return to the main menu and then
choose "Add selection exercise".
2. Position the selection bar on the first selection and press the Delete
key to delete the selection.
3. Confirm the deletion by pressing Enter.
To delete the selection on the main menu that displays the SAMPADD menu,
follow these steps:
1. Display the main menu by pressing \.
2. Position the selection bar on "Add selection exercise" and press Alt+E D
to delete this selection.
3. Confirm the deletion by pressing Enter.
4. Press Enter to confirm deletion of the SAMPADD menu.
Defining Help for a Selection
=============================
When adding/updating a selection or hot key, you may define both a help
message and text for that selection. To see the help, position the
selection bar on the selection. The help message will appear in the
bottom/left border of the window. The help text can then be displayed by
pressing the F1 key.
To define help for a selection, either during the add or update operations,
depress the Update Help button (press Alt+U). The define help window will
appear:
45
+--------------------+ Define help for selection +---------------------+
| Message: Run any program, DOS command or batch file |
+--- Text: ------------------------------------------------------------+
|This selection will prompt for a DOS command, program or ^
|batch file to run. Simply enter the desired program, command O
|or batch file with the required parameters and press enter. #
| #
|Or enter nothing to go to the DOS prompt. #
| #
| #
| v
+ 1: 1<O###########################################################>+
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Help > |
+----------------------------------------------------------------------+
The first field contains the help message and the second field contains the
help text. Use the Tab key to move the cursor between them. Unused lines
and columns in the help text will not be displayed when the F1 key is
pressed. Thus, a long single line of text will be displayed in a wide window
with 1 line. Multiple lines of shorter text will be displayed in a thinner
window with multiple lines. When you are finished defining help, press the
OK button or the Esc key to continue.
Advanced Topics
===============
This section covers the more advanced topics relating to selections. You
should be comfortable with modifying the menus and selections before
attempting this section.
Using Wild Cards in Sub-Menu Name
=================================
As mentioned earlier, the menu field contains the next menu to be displayed
by a selection. You may enter a menu name whenever adding or updating a
selection. The name must conform to the standard DOS file name convention
and may be an existing, new or wild card menu name.
A wild card menu name contains question marks (?) or asterisks (*). The
question mark indicates that any character can occupy that position. For
example, M??N will match with any menu name starting in M, ending in N and
four characters long (like main and moon). The asterisk indicates that any
character can occupy that or any of the remaining positions in the menu
name. Thus, * will return all menu names and G* will return all menu names
starting with the letter G.
For the "Display a new or existing menu" type of selection, the field or
"box" that displays the existing menus will contain only those menus that
match the wild card. To choose an existing menu, simply Tab to this field
and select the desired menu name.
46
For the "Command stream" type of selection, wild cards cause a window to
pop-up containing existing menu names that match the wild card name. You
may choose a menu name by positioning the selection bar on it and pressing
Enter. To leave this menu without choosing a menu name, press Esc.
Wild Card Menu Exercise
-----------------------
Let's add a selection to the main menu as follows:
1. Press \ and then End to position selection bar at the bottom of the main
menu. Then press Insert C to add a "command stream" selection after the
current selection. Then press Enter to continue
2. Type a description of "Wild card menu".
3. Type a command of "REM I really don't want a command, so use a remark".
4. Hit Tab until the cursor is positioned in the menu field. Type a sub-
menu of "*" and hit Enter.
5. A list of your menus will be displayed. Position the selection bar on a
menu name and hit Enter.
6. Press Enter to accept the selection.
7. A selection has been added that will display the sub-menu chosen in step
number 5.
8. Delete the "wild card menu" selection by positioning the selection bar on
it and typing Delete. You must confirm the deletion of the selection,
but cancel the deletion of the sub-menu.
Selections that Return to Prior/Main Menu
=========================================
You may want to code selections that return to the previous or main menu.
While this would duplicate the Esc and \ keys, there are at least two
reasons you might want to do this:
1. Novice users would not have to know these key strokes - they simply
choose the appropriate selection.
2. You may want to run batch commands when leaving a menu. For example, you
may have a selection that redirects standard output of a program to a
temporary file and then displays a sub-menu. The sub-menu then
manipulates the temporary file (ex. view or print it). The sub-menu
might have a selection to delete this temporary file and return to the
previous menu.
To create a selection that does this, add/update a selection and type a
menu of:
47
Menu: Action:
------- ----------------------
----------------------
----------------------
{Prior} Returns to prior menu.
{Main} Returns to main menu.
For an example of each of these, see the "Return to prior menu" and "Return
to main menu" selections in the SAMPLES menu.
Selections that Quit
====================
Besides having selections return to the main or prior menu, you may want a
selection that quits MAXimize. This selection would duplicate the F9 key.
The reasons for wanting to do this are:
1. Novice users would have a selection to quit that is very visible and that
can be chosen like any other selection.
2. You may want to run some commands when quitting MAXimize. These commands
may do some cleanup or may run (switch to) another program.
To create a selection that quits, add or update a selection using the
"command stream" format. If you updated a selection that doesn't use this
format, then press Format button to switch to this format. Then Tab to the
Quit toggle and press the space bar to turn the toggle on. Finally, press
Enter to accept the selection. An example would be the "Quit MAXimize"
selection on the SAMPLES menu.
Parameters and Prompt
=====================
When a program is invoked, it may need additional information. The program
may request this once it has started or may require that you provide this
information as parameters. An example of the latter is the view program
distributed with MAXimize. This program requires one parameter, which is
the file to view. For example, entering VIEW C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT at the DOS
prompt will view the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
MAXimize allows you to enter these parameters as part of a selection. Also,
MAXimize provides a prompt field that indicates that the parameters may be
entered or modified by the person choosing the selection. The "parameters"
and "prompt" fields work together. If you specify just parameters, then
they are passed to the program. If you specify just a prompt, then MAXimize
will request that the user type these parameters. The message used to
request these parameters is the text supplied in the prompt field. If you
specify both, then MAXimize will allow the user to modify the parameters
specified. The text in the prompt field is the message indicating the
parameters may be modified.
If you are using the "run a program, command or batch file" format, then the
program, command or batch file is invoked with the parameters as entered.
For example, if the program is "VIEW" and the parameters are
"C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT", then MAXimize will run "VIEW C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT".
48
If you are using the "command stream" format, then all parameters are placed
in variable %# and the first through tenth parameters are placed in
variables %0 through %9. These variables can then be used in the batch
commands.
For an example, display the SAMPLES menu and choose the "Input prompts menu"
selection. Then examine the first selection in the menu displayed.
Input Prompt Exercise
---------------------
For example, add a selection as follows:
1. Display the main menu by typing backslash (\). Position selection bar at
the bottom by pressing End. Then press Insert to add a selection and
Enter to continue.
2. Type a description of "Prompt exercise".
3. Enter a program of "CHKDSK"
4. For parameters, use "C:".
5. Enter a prompt of "Enter the drive to check".
6. Press Enter to accept the selection.
7. Choose the selection. You will be requested for the drive to check.
Press Enter to accept the default of C: or type a different drive and
press Enter. The drive will then be checked by the CHKDSK program.
8. Delete the "Prompt exercise" selection by positioning the selection bar
on it and pressing the Delete key.
The Shell Toggle
================
When adding or updating a selection you may choose to turn on the "shell"
toggle. When the shell toggle is off, MAXimize will completely clear itself
from memory before running your program, commands or batch file. This gives
the maximum amount of memory to your application (program, commands, etc).
When the shell toggle is on, MAXimize will not clear itself from memory.
This option is slightly faster but does use about 100k of memory. If there
is not enough memory, DOS will display message "Program too big to fit in
memory". You should then toggle the shell off. If you still get the
message, your computer does not have enough memory or some application(s)
(normally TSR type programs) is using too much memory.
To see the difference in speed, create a selection with a description of
"more memory" and a program of "CD". Then create another selection with a
description of "faster", a program of "CD" and toggle the shell on. Now
pick each selection and compare the difference in speed. When done, delete
both selections.
49
Copy or Transfer a Sub-Menu
===========================
The copying (duplicating) of entire menus is accomplished through the DOS
copy command. The file name for a menu is the menu name and the extension
is .MNU. The file name for the hot keys is MAXIMIZE.KYS. You may copy
these files to other computers to distribute your menus and hot keys. Also,
an entire menu can be duplicated by copying the menu's file to the new
(duplicated) file. For instance, assuming the current directory contains
menus, the DOS copy command COPY EXISTING.MNU DUPLICAT.MNU will create a
duplicate of the "existing" menu and call it "duplicat". You can then add a
selection and specify "duplicat" as the sub-menu. To transfer a menu to
another location within the menu system, simply transfer the selection that
displays that sub-menu.
50
Chapter 3: Commands, Variables and Functions
============================================
Overview
========
This chapter covers the commands, variables and functions used within
MAXimize. Including how these provide powerful extensions to the commands
specified for a selection. These commands can only be used in a selection
with the "Command stream" format which was explained in the prior chapter.
Before reading on, you should be familiar with this type of selection and
with coding DOS batch files.
Commands
========
The commands specified within the Batch commands field can be as simple as
the commands you normally enter at the DOS prompt. For example, to invoke a
program you might change the drive and directory, and then run the program.
The batch commands would look similar to these:
C:
CHDIR \WORDPERF
WP.EXE
The commands may also be the same as that coded in a batch file with two
exceptions: the SHIFT command will not work and %0 contains the first
parameter (instead of %1). Also, batch files executed from within the
commands must include the .BAT extension, be preceded by a tilde (~) sign or
be called using the CALL DOS command. The commands specified will be placed
into a batch file and then executed. The parameters passed to the commands
(variables %0 to %9) will be set to the value in the Parameters field or
those prompted for by this selection.
Finally, a selection can be very powerful by enhancing the commands with the
variables and functions provided by MAXimize. Even the variables can be set
within MAXimize. When using variables and functions, it is important to
understand how MAXimize will process the commands. The commands are
processed in two passes as follows:
1. Compile the commands. During this process, MAXimize will resolve all
functions and variable references (except environment variables).
This includes references to the parameters. It also removes remarks
and adds code for batch files that are invoked. Be sure that batch
files in the commands are preceded by a tilde (~) sign (without this,
MAXimize may not re-invoke itself). The resulting commands are then
written to a batch file.
2. DOS executes compiled commands. If after the compile there are
commands for DOS to run, MAXimize will pass them to DOS in the batch
file produced by the compile process. DOS will then execute the
batch file.
Thus, the DOS commands are not processed by MAXimize, but by DOS. For
example, the DOS command GOTO is not processed by MAXimize, however the
51
&GOTO function is. The result is that DOS executes the GOTO command and
MAXimize executes the &GOTO function. This allows you to direct the compile
by MAXimize separately from the execute of commands by DOS.
The following sections describe what are variables and functions, and how to
use them. In general, you can use them to enhance your commands to do such
things as:
>multiple prompts to user for information
>prompt user to select an item from a list
>conditionally execute prompts based on prior input
>prompt for files, directories and drives
>conditional inclusion/exclusion of DOS commands based on user input
>get current date, time, directory, drive, user ID and DOS version
through special variables
>retain user input across selections through global variables
>get parts of a file, directory or drive - like the extension
>type keys for MAXimize, as if user typed them - to create a keyboard
macro.
Variables
=========
Variables make it possible to pass information:
> within a selection
> between selections (even when these selections are on different menus)
> from one execution of a selection to another execution of the same
selection.
They are also used to provide information, such as the current directory, to
a selection/menu. When a variable is referenced (not set), the value the
variable holds will replace the variable. Thus, if variable %# has been set
to "/W" and your command line is "DIR %#", the result would be "DIR /W".
Variables may be referenced in all the fields of a selection or menu, except
password, track by, program and directory.
The four types of variables are special, input, environment, and global.
After reading about each type of variable, please choose the example
selections. Then update these selections and inspect how the variables are
used. These examples should help with questions you might have.
Special Variables
=================
Special variables contain information that can be used in your selection or
menu title. For example, your selection may need to know what the current
drive and directory is. Special variables are replaced with the appropriate
information and cannot be set to a value. The following are the special
variables and the information they contain:
52
Variable: Description:
--------- -------------------------------------------------------
&DATE& Current date as MM-DD-YYYY.
&DATEM& Current date as DDMMMYY.
&DATED& Current date as DD-MM-YYYY.
&DATEY& Current date as YYYY-MM-DD.
&TIME& Current time as HH:MM:SS.
&DRIVE& Current drive letter.
&DIR& Current directory.
&DIR?& Current directory for drive ? (? is A to Z).
&VER& DOS version number (ex. 3.30).
&MAXDRIVE& Drive MAXimize was installed in (ex. C:)
&MAXDIR& Directory MAXimize was installed in (ex. \MAX)
&ID& Current user identification for person using MAXimize.
When a special variable is used, MAXimize will replace it with the
information it contains as listed above. For example, the batch commands
can easily check the current drive and not allow it to be formated if it is
the C: drive as follows:
IF &DRIVE& == C GOTO NOFORMAT
FORMAT
GOTO ENDIF
:NOFORMAT
ECHO Cannot format C: drive
:ENDIF
The SAMPLES menu provides good examples of these in the following
selections: "Edit file", "Display information" and "DOS version". The first
of these is a more pratical application of special variables. Also, see the
"Add event" selection on the "Log ents menu" for a pratical application of
special variables.
Input Variables
===============
Input variables pass information within a selection. They are normally used
in the command section of a selection ("command stream" format), to obtain
the parameters. Thus, the selection may prompt for parameters and the
commands can operate on these parameters by using the input variables. In
this respect, they are similar to variables in a batch file. They retain
their value only while the selection is executing. Once the selection is
finished, the input variables are cleared.
Input variables start with a percent (%) sign followed by the pound (#) sign
or the numbers 0 through 9 (%# or %0 to %9.. Each time %# is set, %0 to %9
are set to the first through tenth parameters of %# (where parameters are
separated by blanks). Thus, if %# is set to "my file", %0 will be "my", %1
will be "file", and %2 through %9 will be null. Each time a selection is
chosen, %# is set to the text in the "parameters" field. Then, if there is
a prompt, %# is set to the parameters typed at the prompt.
The commands in the selection can then obtain all the parameters by
referring to variable %#. The commands may obtain the first through tenth
parameters by using variables %0 to %9.
53
The selection may also set the %# variable and then act on the individual
parameters using variables %0 through %9. Input variables may be set in the
commands field only. To do this, enter the variable as the first thing on a
line and follow it immediately (no intervening blanks) by an equal sign.
The variable will be assigned the value to the right of the equal sign. For
example, "%2= DIR /W", will result in variable %2 being set to the value "
DIR /W". Variables may be set to other variables. For instance, if %1=DIR
and %0=/W, then "%2=%1 %0" will result in %2 being set to "DIR /W".
For example, the following batch commands prompts for a file name and
assigns it to input variable %1. It then prompts for text to search for in
the file and assigns this to input variable %0. Then the DOS FIND command
is used to search the file.
%1=&File[Enter file to search through:|C:\*.*|Old]
%0=&Prompt[Enter text to search for:||64||Required]
FIND "%0" %1 | MORE
For more examples on how to use the input variables see the "Alter DOS PATH"
and "Dynamic PATHing example" selections.
Environment Variables
=====================
Environment variables are provided by DOS. They are used to pass
information to DOS or programs. For example, the PATH environment variable
contains directories DOS should search when it is looking for a program that
hasn't been qualified. Environment variables are handy since they can be
set outside MAXimize (like in the AUTOEXEC.BAT file) and will not be lost
when MAXimize quits. They retain their values until your computer is turned
off. In MAXimize, you can use environment variables to pass information to
programs, DOS or other selections within MAXimize.
To obtain the contents of an environment variable, enclose the variable in
percent (%) signs. For example, %PATH% is the DOS PATH variable and will be
replaced with the directories in the PATH.
Use the DOS SET command within the commands field to set environment
variables. For example, SET PATH=C:\;%PATH%, will add the "C:\" directory
to the front of your path. However, if your selection has the Shell toggle
on, any environment variables set in the commands field will last only for
the duration of that selection. This can be very useful at times and
confusing at other times.
An example of how to use environment variables follows. In this example,
the DOS PATH is saved in input variable %1 and then changed to include the
directory that MYPROG is in. Then the program is executed and finally the
PATH is restored to its original value:
%1=PATH
SET PATH=C:\MYDIR;%PATH%
MYPROG
SET PATH=%1
54
For an excellent example of how to use environment variables, review the
"Alter DOS PATH" selection on the SAMPLES menu.
Global Variables
================
Global variables retain their values until you quit MAXimize. They are used
to pass information between selections or between multiple executions of a
selection. A good example of this is the "Display directory menu" selection
on the SAMPLES menu and the selections on the sub-menu it displays. A
global variable (&0) is used to hold the directory to be displayed. One
selection on the sub-menu allows the user to modify this directory, changing
the contents of this global variable. Then the global variable is used in
the menu title and the selections that display the directory contents.
Global variables start with an ampersand (&) sign followed by the numbers 0
through 9 (&0 to &9). Global variables may be set in the commands field
only. To do this, enter the variable as the first thing on a line and follow
it immediately (no intervening blanks) by an equal sign. The variable will
be assigned the value to the right of the equal sign. For example, "&0= DIR
/W", will result in variable &0 being set to the value " DIR /W". Also,
variables may be set to other variables. For instance, if %1=DIR and %0=/W,
then "&2=%1 %0" will result in &2 being set to "DIR /W".
See the "Display directory menu" selection on the SAMPLES menu and the
selections on the sub-menu it displays. This selection and the selections
on the sub-menu displayed, use &0 to hold the directory being displayed.
Using and Setting Variables in Commands
=======================================
The filling in and setting of non-environment variables in the batch
commands is done prior to the execution of the commands. That is, when the
commands are compiled by MAXimize. If a line sets a variable, this line
will not be in the commands later executed by DOS. The processing of
variables is done starting with the first line proceeding till the last line
of the batch commands. Once the variables in the commands have been
evaluated, the commands are passed to DOS in a batch file to be executed.
For example, suppose you had the following commands:
&0=%PATH%
SET PATH=C:\NEWPATH;%PATH%
%1=%PATH%
MYPROG
PATH=&0
The result of these commands is:
&0=%PATH% sets &0 to the path prior to the commands
being ran.
SET PATH=C:\NEWPATH;%PATH% adds C:\NEWPATH to the front of current path.
55
&1=%PATH% sets &1 to the path prior to the commands
being ran. Thus, &1 contains the same path
as &0.
MYPROG runs the program by this name. It is assumed
in this example that MYPROG can be found in
C:\NEWPATH.
PATH=&0 resets the path to its setting prior to the
commands being ran.
This example clearly shows that variables are filled in prior to the batch
commands execution (ie, &1 is the same as &0).
Functions
=========
Functions provide very powerful extensions to the commands a selection can
execute. In general they provide for powerful input prompting and
conditional execution of prompts and commands. The use of these functions
allows a selection to do much more than is possible in a DOS batch file.
Functions are like variables in that they are replaced with a returned
value. Functions differ in that they are passed parameters to operate on.
The parameters are enclosed in square brackets ([]) and are separated by the
pipe (|) symbol. Functions also differ from variables in that they can be
used only in the "Commands" field of a selection ("Command Stream" format).
Like variables, functions can be used multiple times in a selection and all
function evaluation is done prior to the commands being executed. That is,
while MAXimize is compiling the commands. Pressing the Esc key or cancel
button in response to a function prompt aborts the selection.
While function parameters are not required, the square brackets are. Each
function has default settings for parameters that are not present and any
extra parameters are ignored. Also, variables and functions may be used as
parameters for a function. In this case, the value of the variable or the
value returned by the function will be filled in when the function is
evaluated. Finally, if a function's parameter contains either of the square
brackets ([]), then they must be paired together while the pipe symbol (|)
cannot be part of any function parameter.
Prompt Function
===============
The prompt function is used to prompt the user for general information
(text). Other functions can be used to specifically prompt for a drive,
directory, file name or an item in a list. This function will allow for any
text to be entered. For example, the selection can prompt for the
parameters to pass a program. The prompt function displays the prompt
window with a title and default text. The user may then enter or modify the
text. The function returns the text typed in response to the prompt. The
syntax of the prompt function is:
&PROMPT[title|text|length|valid characters|required]
56
Where the "title" is the title to put in the prompt window, "text" is the
default text, "length" is the maximum length for input text, "valid
characters" are the valid characters that can be used in the input text and
"required" indicates if null text is not allowed. If a title is no
specified, then the window will have no title. If no text is given, then
the window will have no default text. The other parameters default to a
length of 249, all characters are valid and text is not required (entering
nothing at the prompt is valid). If is recommended that the prompt function
be given a meaningful title to indicate what information should be entered.
For example:
&PROMPT[Enter a directory:|C:\]
&PROMPT[Enter a file name:||64|abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz0123456789.\:|Req]
The first example will prompt for a directory with C:\ being the default.
The second example prompts for a file name with no default text, a maximum
length of 64, valid keys are alpha-numeric plus the period, colon and
backslash symbols. A null entry is not allowed in the second example.
A good example of the prompt function can be found by displaying the SAMPLES
menu and then examining the "Date change" selection to see how it uses the
prompt function. The commands within this selection is as follows:
DATE &Prompt[Enter new date (format=MM-DD-CCYY):|&DATE&|10|1234567890-|Req]
The above command prompts for a new date, using the &DATE& special variable
to provide the current date as the default. The maximum length is 10
characters, valid characters are numeric and the dash, and the date is
required input. The date entered then replaces the prompt function and
finally the DATE command is executed by DOS.
Menu Function
=============
The menu function gives the user a list of items to choose from. It should
be used instead of the prompt function, when there is a small list of items
that may be chosen from. Choosing from a list will be easier for the user
and prevents typing errors. For example, a selection can use the menu
function to have the user choose an action to perform, such as view or
print, from a list. The menu function displays a menu with a title and from
one to 26 items. The user may then choose an item. The function returns
either the item or its identifier. The syntax of the menu function is:
&MENU[title|type|item1|item2|.........|item26]
The "title" is the title to put on the menu. The type is a one or three
character long type code. The first character indicates the type of
selection ID to use:
ID: Explanation:
--- -------------------------------------------------
F first letter of each item
N numeric IDs
A alphanumeric IDs
57
P point and press (no IDs)
S first letter of each item is not shown, but is
used to determine the letter to highlight in the
item. This is case sensitive. Example: XeXit
will display as eXit.
Follow the first character with "ID" if this function should return only the
ID selected. For numeric IDs, "2" will be returned when the second item is
chosen. For alpha-numeric, "B" will be returned when the second item is
chosen. Without "ID", the menu function returns the actual item selected.
The type parameter should be followed by the items to choose from separated
by the pipe symbol. There are two special items that cause the selection to
be aborted when chosen. These special items are "Esc" and "No/Esc". When
these items are selected, MAXimize aborts the selection.
If there is no title, then the menu window will have no title. If there is
no type, then it is set to "F". If there are no selections present, then
"Yes|No/Esc" is assumed. Here are some examples:
&MENU[Enter drive:|F|A:|B:|C:]
&MENU[Choose a file:|AID|C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT|C:\CONFIG.SYS]
&MENU[Delete the file?]
The first example prompts for a drive. The user may then select from the
list of A:, B: or C:. The first letter of each item is highlighted. The
function returns the complete drive (ex. C:).
The second example prompts the user to choose one of two files. Alpha-
numeric IDs will be used to the left of each file name. When the user
selects an item, the ID (either A or B) is returned.
The third example prompts the user whether to delete a file. The defaults
are taken, so the items are "Yes" and "No/Esc". The first letter of each
item is highlighted. The function will return "Yes" if that is selected.
If the user selects "No/Esc", the selection is aborted.
Another example would be to allow the user to choose wether to edit, view or
print a file using the following command:
&MENU[Choose function:|F|View|Edit|Print] &File[Enter File|C:\*.*|Old]
A good example of the menu function can be found by first displaying the
SAMPLES menu. Examine the "Documentation" selection to see how it uses the
menu function.
58
Drive Function
==============
The drive function is used to prompt the user for a disk drive. It should
be used instead of the prompt or menu functions when prompting for a drive.
The drive function is almost identical to the menu function, except that
invalid drives are removed from the list. For example, the selection can
prompt the user to select a floppy drive. The function returns the drive
selected. The syntax of the drive function is:
&DRIVE[title|type|drive1|drive2|.........|drive26]
Where "title" and "type" are as explained under the menu function. The
remaining parameters are the drives to select from. You should specify the
default drive as the first drive in the list. Any drives which are not
valid for the computer MAXimize is running on will be removed from the list.
If only one drive remains in the list, it will be returned as if the user
selected it without user interaction. If no drives remain in the list, then
an error message will be displayed. Here are some examples:
&DRIVE[Enter a floppy drive:|FID|A:|B:]
&DRIVE[Enter drive to check:|F|C:|D:|A:|B:]
The first example will prompt for only floppy drives and returns either "A"
or "B" depending on the drive chosen. The second will prompt the user with
a list of up to four drives (D: and C: may not be valid) to check and
returns the drive letter chosen including the colon. A good example of the
drive function can be found by displaying the SAMPLES menu and then
examining the "Check disk drive" selection to see how it uses the drive
function. The commands used are:
CHKDSK &Drive[Enter drive to check:|F|C:|D:|E:|F:||A:|B:]
PAUSE
In the above example the user will be able to select a drive from the list
presented (C:, D:, E:, F:,A: and B:) excluding those that are not valid.
The drive selected by the user replaces the drive function and then DOS
executes the CHKDSK and PAUSE commands.
Dir Function
============
The dir(ectory) function is used to prompt the user for a directory. It can
be used instead of the prompt function when prompting for a directory. The
directory entered must be valid and you can ensure that the directory exists
or is new. For example, the selection can prompt the user to enter an
existing directory and then display the files in that directory. The
function returns the directory entered, including the drive. The syntax of
the directory function is:
&DIR[title|filespec|type]
Where "title" is the title for the file/directory input window and
"filespec" is the initial file specification. If no title is specified,
then the window will not have a title. The default file specification is
59
"*.***", which displays all executable files in the current directory. The
"type" parameter indicates the type of directory that must be entered:
Type: Explanation:
--------- -----------------------------------
Old Directory entered must exist
New DIrectory entered must be new
Reuse If directory entered exists, prompt
user to ensure it can be reused.
Either Directory can exist or be new
The default type is Either. Also, if you add a backslash to the end of the
type parameter (eq. Old\), then the directory returned will always have a
backslash at the end. Otherwise, the root directory will have a backslash
at the end and all other directories will not. Therefore, when using the
directory function to get a directory to be used with the change directory
command (CHDIR), do not use the backslash on type. However, if a file name
will be appended to the end of the directory, use the backslash at the end
of the type parameter.
Here are some examples:
&DIR[Enter directory to print file listing for:|C:\*.*|Old\]
&DIR[Enter directory to create:|C:\*.*|New]
The first example will prompt for an old directory. The file/directory
window will initially display files in the root of the C drive. The
directory entered will be returned with a backslash at the end. The second
example prompts for a new directory to create, using a file specification of
C:\*.*. The directory entered will be returned without the backslash for
the make directory command (MKDIR).
One last example is a selection that prints a file listing for any
directory. The command is as follows:
DIR &DIR[Enter directory to print file listing for:|C:\*.*|OLD\] > PRN
File Function
=============
The file function is used to prompt the user for a file. It can be used
instead of the prompt function when prompting for a file. The file entered
must be valid and you can ensure that the file exists or is new. For
example, the selection can prompt the user to enter an existing file to
view. The function returns the file entered, including the drive and
directory. The syntax of the file function is:
&FILE[title|filespec|type]
Where "title" is the title for the file/directory input window and
"filespec" is the initial file specification. If no title is specified,
then the window will not have a title. The default file specification is
"*.***", which displays all executable files in the current directory. The
"type" parameter indicates the type of file that must be entered:
60
Type: Explanation:
-------- --------------------------------
Old File entered must exist
New File entered must be new
Reuse If file entered exists, prompt
user to ensure it can be reused.
Either File can exist or be new
The default type is Either. Here are some examples:
&FILE[Enter file to edit:|C:\*.*|Old]
&FILE[Enter file to copy to:|C:\*.*|Reuse]
The first example will prompt for an old file. The file/directory window
will initially display files in the root of the C drive. The second example
prompts for an output file, using a file specification of C:\*.*. If the
file entered exists, then the user will be prompted to ensure it can be
reused. A good example of the file function can be found by displaying the
SAMPLES menu and then examining the "View a file" selection. This selection
uses the following command:
VIEW &FILE[Enter file to view:|C:\*.*\Old]
Part Function
=============
The part function is used to return a portion of a file or directory, such
as the drive. It is often used to extract a portion of the result of a file
or directory function. These parts can then be used as part of the process
or for verification. For example, you can extract the file's extension and
ensure that it is "DOC". The syntax of the part function is:
&PART[file/directory|part]
Where "file/directory" is the file or directory to extract from. This
parameter is generally specified as either a function or variable that
contains the results of the file or directory function. The "part"
parameter is the portion to extract. Part defaults to "F" and may be one of
the following:
Part:
:
: Explanation:
----- ---------------------------------------
R Drive with colon (C:)
D Directory (\MAX)
D\ Directory with backslash at end (\MAX\)
F File (MAX.EXE)
N Name (MAX)
E Extension with period (.EXE)
The above list includes the results of the part function in parenthesis for
a file of C:\MAX\MAX.EXE
The part function will return a null string (nothing) if the file/directory
does not contain the requested part. Also, the function assumes that the
file/directory is valid. Here is an example:
61
&1=&FILE[Enter file to edit:|C:\*.*|Old]
%1=&PART[&1:F]
The example will prompt for an old file and place the results in the &1
variable. Then the part function is used to extract the file from the
results of the file function and place it in the %1 variable. The selection
could then process the variables. A good example of the part function can
be found by displaying the SAMPLES menu and then examining the "Display a
menu" selection.
If Function
===========
The if function allows for the conditional inclusion of commands, functions
or text. This function compares two strings with the specified operator and
returns one of two strings based on whether the condition is true. The
string returned is often another function. The if function is used most
often in combination with the GoTo function described in the next section to
conditionally execute other functions based on some prior input. The syntax
of the if function is:
&IF[string1|operator|string2|then|else]
Where if compares "string1" to "string2" using the "operator". If the
condition is true, "then" is returned. Otherwise, "else" is returned for
the if function. The operator may consist of the equal (=), less than (<)
or greater than (>) signs. You may also combine these signs to specify not
equal (<>), less than or equal (<=) and greater than or equal (>=). The
defaults for the strings compared (string1/string2) and those returned
(then/else) are null strings. The default operator is equal.
The if function is deceptively powerful, especially when combined with the
other functions (like GoTo). Perhaps the most powerful way to use this
function is to test input from a prior prompt and to conditionally execute
additional prompts based on the prior prompt. Here is an example of the if
function:
&1=&FILE[Enter file to edit:|C:\*.*|Old]
%1=&PART[&1:E]
IF[%1|<>|.DOC|&ABORT[Extension not DOC - selection aborted]]
EDIT &1
The example will prompt for an old file and place the results in the &1
variable. Then the part function is used to extract the extension from the
results of the file function and place it in the %1 variable. Finally, the
selection ensures that the file's extension is DOC. If the file extension
is incorrect, the selection is aborted. A good example of the if function
can be found by displaying the SAMPLES menu and then examining the "Set any
environment variable" selection.
62
GoTo Function
=============
The GoTo function returns a null string and then skips command lines. This
function is usually used with the if function to conditionally execute
commands or functions. The syntax of the GoTo function is:
&GOTO[label]
Where "label" is the label to branch to. This label should be a standard
batch file label and must follow the line the GoTo function is coded on.
The label specified in the GoTo function does not have to be preceded by a
colon. However, the label being branched to must be preceded by a colon
and be the only item on the line.
The GoTo function not only skips lines, but actually deletes the lines
following the line GoTo is on, through (and including) the line containing
the label branched to.
Here is an example of the GoTo function:
&1=&FILE[Enter file to edit or view:|C:\*.*|Old]
%1=&PART[&1:E]
IF[%1|=|.DOC|&GOTO[EDIT]]
VIEW &1
&GOTO[ENDIF]
:EDIT
EDIT &1
:ENDIF
The example will prompt for an old file and place the results in the &1
variable. Then the part function is used to extract the extension from the
results of the file function and place it in the %1 variable. Finally, if
the extension is DOC the file is edited. otherwise the file is viewed. A
good example of the if function can be found by displaying the SAMPLES menu
and then examining the "Execute a DOS command" selection.
Abort Function
==============
The abort function terminates the execution of a selection. This function
is usually used with the if function to conditionally abort a selection when
an error condition occurs. The syntax of the abort function is:
&ABORT[text]
Where "text" is the text of the error message to display. If "text" is not
included, then no error message is displayed. Otherwise the text is
displayed as error number 300. Here is an example of the abort function:
&1=&FILE[Enter file to edit:|C:\*.*|Old]
%1=&PART[&1:E]
IF[%1|<>|.DOC|&ABORT[Extension must be DOC - selection aborted]]
EDIT &1
63
The example will prompt for an old file and place the results in the &1
variable. Then the part function is used to extract the extension from the
results of the file function and place it in the %1 variable. Finally, the
selection ensures that the file's extension is DOC. If the file extension
is incorrect, the selection is aborted. A good example of the abort
function can be found by displaying the SAMPLES menu and then examining the
"Display a menu" selection.
Key Function
============
The key function is used to have a selection enter keys to MAXimize (not the
applications invoked by MAXimize) as if they had been typed at the keyboard.
It returns a null string after "inserting" the keys into the keyboard
buffer. Generally, this function is used to run one or more selections
after the selection containing the key function has ran. Another use is to
create a macro by using this function in a Hot Key (this is explained in the
appendix on Hits and Tips). The syntax of the key function is:
&KEY[text]
Where "text" is the keys to be inserted into the keyboard buffer. Text may
contain any keystroke, however certain keystrokes require special handling
as follows:
1. Control codes are ASCII codes 1 through 31. These codes are shown on
the back of the reference card along with the corresponding control
character. To enter one of these keys, press Ctrl+P and then Ctrl+?
(where ? is the corresponding control character). For example, Ctrl+I
is the same as the Tab key and can be entered by first pressing Ctrl+P
and then Ctrl+I. There is one exception in Ctrl+M. This key should be
entered as Ctrl+P , Ctrl+@, Ctrl+P, Ctrl+A.
2. Extended ASCII codes are codes 128 through 255. These codes are also
shown on the back of the reference card. To enter an extended ASCII
code, simply hold down the Alt key and type the decimal ASCII code
number on the numeric key pad (on the right of your keyboard). For
example. the square root sign can be inserted by holding down the Alt
key and typing 251 on the numeric key pad.
3. Extended key codes are listed below and are entered by first pressing
Ctrl+P Ctrl+@ and then holding the Alt key down while typing the
extended key code on the numeric key pad. The extended key codes are:
Code: Meaning:
----- -----------------------
16-25 Alt-Q/W/E/R/T/Y/U/I/O/P
30-38 Alt-A/S/D/F/G/H/I/J/K/L
44-50 Alt-Z/X/C/V/B/N/M
59-68 Keys F1-F10
71 Home
72 Up Arrow
73 PgUp
75 Left Arrow
77 Right Arrow
64
79 End
80 Down Arrow
81 PgDn
82 Insert
83 Delete
115 Ctrl+Left Arrow
116 Ctrl+Right Arrow
117 Ctrl+End
118 Ctrl+PgDn
119 Ctrl+Home
A simple example would be &KEY[A], which inserts the letter "A" into the
keyboard buffer. A good example of the key function can be found in the
SAMPLES menu by examining the "Display a menu" function. This selection
uses the key function to insert two Tab keys so that the cursor is
positioned in the file area of the dialog window for the file function.
65
Chapter 4: Customizing MAXimize - Options
=========================================
MAXimize has several options that allow you to customize it to your liking.
These options include colors, passwords and more. To inspect or change
MAXimize's options press Alt+O for options. The option drop down menu will
be displayed at the top of your screen:
File Edit Options Window Help
+---------------------+
+----------| Colors... |in Menu +------------------------------+
|+---------| Directories... |Samples +-------------------------------+
|| | Security... Ctrl+F5 | |
|| | Miscellaneous... | |
|| A Print+---------------------+m N Check disk drive |
|| B View/| Reset... | O Display volume label |
|| C Featu+---------------------+ P Set volume label |
|| D Displ| Update Mode [ ] | Q Display information |
|| E Log e| User ID... | R Date change - from 10-30-1992 |
|| F Progr| Project... F5 | S Time change |
|| G Execu+---------------------+ T Find text in file |
|| H Alter DOS PATH U Edit file |
|| I Set any environment variable V View a file |
|| J Display a menu W Print a file |
|| K Dynamic PATHing example X Return to prior menu |
|| L Copy floppy between A: and B: Y Return to main menu |
|| M Format floppy Z Exit |
|| |
+| |
++ Display a menu that shows some of the features of MAXimize +----------+
MAXimize +=Select_Item ^v><=Next_Item Alt=Actions 07:12pm 30OCT92
You can then choose any of the items shown on the option menu. Each is
described in the following sections.
Colors
======
To change any of MAXimize's colors, follow these steps:
1. Press C from the option drop down menu. At the bottom of the screen, the
"color" window will appear. Above that will be the status line, the main
window (that is smaller to allow for the color window) and at the top is
the menu bar. The screen will look like this:
66
File Edit Options Window Help
+------------------------------+ Samples +-------------------------------+
| +-------------+ |
| | Sample Text | |
| +-------------+ |
| A Print order/registration form B View/Print Documentation ^
| C Features menu D Display directory menu O
| E Log events menu F Program usage log menu #
| G Execute a DOS command H Alter DOS PATH #
| I Set any environment variable J Display a menu #
| K Dynamic PATHing example L Copy floppy between A: and B: #
| M Format floppy N Check disk drive #
| O Display volume label P Set volume label v
++ Display a menu that shows some of the features of MAXimize +----------+
Colors: This is the status line. F1=Help
+---------------------------+ Color update window +-----------------------+
| Main Setup Selection Menu Help Prompt Warning Status Wallpaper |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| Use arrow keys to position on desired window above and then press Enter.|
| |
| < OK > < Cancel > < Help > |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
2. Choose the window or status line that you want to inspect/change the
colors of. Use the right/left arrows to move the selection bar to the
desired window. As the selection bar moves between the names of the
windows, a sample of that window is displayed. All the selection update
windows are grouped together and the "general" setup menus are also
grouped together. Once the selection bar is on the desired window or
status line, press Enter or the down arrow key.
3. The "change colors" window will then appear at the bottom of the screen:
67
File Edit Options Window Help
+------------------------------+ Samples +-------------------------------+
| +-------------+ |
| | Sample Text | |
| +-------------+ |
| A Print order/registration form B View/Print Documentation ^
| C Features menu D Display directory menu O
| E Log events menu F Program usage log menu #
| G Execute a DOS command H Alter DOS PATH #
| I Set any environment variable J Display a menu #
| K Dynamic PATHing example L Copy floppy between A: and B: #
| M Format floppy N Check disk drive #
| O Display volume label P Set volume label v
++ Display a menu that shows some of the features of MAXimize +----------+
Colors: This is the status line. F1=Help
+----------------------+ Change colors - window items: +------------------+
| Window/Border Title Normal Highlight Bar Box Text |
+-------------------------------------------------------------------------+
| +- Background colors -+ +--------- Foreground colors ---------+ < OK > |
| | |[|]| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |[|]| | | | | | | | | |
| +-> 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 <-+ +-> A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P <-+< Help >|
++ Position to item and then enter new background/foreground color code +-+
The "change color" window contains the items within the chosen window
that you can inspect/change the colors of. It also contains a
background and foreground color chart. These charts show the various
colors you may choose for the background (color behind the letters) and
foreground (color of the letters). Below the colors in the charts are
the codes that correspond to that color. Thus, "1" is a blue background
and "O" is a yellow foreground. The background/foreground color of the
current item will be enclosed in square brackets on the color charts.
4. From the "change color" window, you should select the item you want to
inspect/change the color of. Use the right and left arrows to move the
selection bar to the desired item.
5. Now choose the desired colors for this item from the charts by pressing
the color code corresponding to the desired background/foreground colors.
For example, press "1" for a blue background and "O" for a yellow
foreground.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 above until you are satisfied with the colors of
this window.
7. When you are finished changing the colors for this window, press the
Enter or Esc keys to return to the "colors" menu.
8. Repeat steps 2 through 7 for each window, until all windows are the
desired colors.
68
9. Press the OK button (by pressing Allt+O) to accept the changes made to
the colors. Otherwise press the Cancel button or the Esc key to cancel
the changes made.
NOTE: It is usually easier to determine the background color for a window
first. Next change the background color of all the items for that
window. Then change the foreground color of each item in the window
as desired.
Directories
===========
All the directories used by MAXimize are modifiable. To inspect or change
them:
1. Press D from the option drop down menu. The directory window will pop-up
below the option menu:
+-------------------------+ Directories +-------------------------+
| |
| Batch execution file: C:\MAX\ |
| (MAX-MNUX.BAT) |
| |
| Menus & Hot keys path: C:\MAX\ |
| (.MNU, .KYS) |
| |
| Setup pgm & Help file: C:\MAX\ |
| (.HLP, MAX-SET.EXE) |
| |
| Usage & License DBF: C:\MAX\ |
| |
| Edit read/save files: |
| |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Cancel > < Help > |
+-----------------------------------------------------------------+
2. Tab to the directory to be changed and modify it. The directories are:
Batch execution file directory contains the batch file (MAXIMIZE.BAT)
built from a selection's commands and then executed. This directory may
be on a RAM or virtual disk drive to improve performance.
NOTE: Changes to this directory take effect only when MAXimize is
started.
Menus & Hot keys path contains your user menus (.MNU extension) and hot
keys (MAXIMIZE.KYS). Multiple directories may be specified separated by
semicolons (;). Menus are read from the first directory they are found
in. A new menu is saved in the first directory and an updated menu in
the same directory it was read from.
69
Setup pgm & Help file directory contains MAXimize's system files. The
MAXIMIZE.HLP and MAXSETUP.EXE files must be in this directory. This
should be the directory MAXimize was installed in.
Usage & License DBF directory contains the usage log (MAXLOG.DBF) and
license control (MAXCHK.DBF) files. These are the databases used for
usage logging and application license control (LAN version only). Please
review the chapter titled Controlling and Monitoring Access.
Edit read/save files directory contains the files to export from or
import into the text editor. This is the default directory used when
exporting or importing a file to/from the commands or help text.
3. Press the OK button or the Enter key to accept the changes. Press the
Cancel button or the Esc key to cancel any changes made to the
directories.
Password Protection
===================
Besides allowing menus and selections to be password protected, MAXimize
allows for the following passwords:
Creator satisfies a prompt for any password. It uniquely identifies the
person who enters it as the installer of MAXimize. With this
password, any other password protection can be bypassed and
changed. Remember this password, it will be used later to
determine forgotten passwords.
Entry protects entry into MAXimize. It will be requested each time
MAXimize is entered. In this way MAXimize disallows
unauthorized access.
Quitting protects leaving MAXimize. This password must be entered each
time an attempt is made to quit MAXimize and can be used to
ensure that use of your computer is with MAXimize.
Setup protects the setup. Whenever a slash (/) is pressed from a user
menu or the hot keys menu, the first setup window appears. From
this window, you can change MAXimize's options, menus and
selections. This password prevents unauthorized use of these
capabilities. Before the first setup window is displayed, this
password must be entered.
NOTE: The setup password can become an irritant when doing
massive updates to your menus and selections. In this case, you
should read the section title "Update Mode" in this chapter.
Hide/Disable Hide or disable items in the menu bar or the pull down
menus.
70
Log Violation Logs security violations. This will allow you to determine
if someone is trying to use facilities they are not authorized
for. Choosing this selection will toggle violation logging on
(X) or off.
NOTE: MAXLOG.EXE allows you to view this log.
Encryption Key encodes password protected menus and selections. If an
encryption keys is specified, then menus that are password
protected (or that have password protected selections) cannot be
used in other MAXimize systems that do not have the same
encryption key. If no encryption key is specified, then
MAXimize will use the default. In this case, other menu systems
can bypass your password protection by entering their creator
password.
NOTE: Before changing the encryption key, be sure to remove all password
protection of menus and selections. Then change the encryption key
and implement the password protection.
To change any of the above passwords or the encryption key:
1. Press S
for security from the option drop down menu.
2. If a creator password has been entered previously, you will be requested
to enter it. Thus, only the "creator" is allowed to inspect/modify
these passwords. The password menu will be displayed:
+----+ Security +------+
| Creator password |
| Entry password |
| Quitting password |
| Setup password |
+----------------------+
| Hide/Disable |
| Log violations [ ] |
| Encryption Key |
+----------------------+
| < OK > < Help > |
+----------------------+
3. Select the desired password or encryption key to change. This will
display the input prompt window to allow you to change/enter the
password. To remove a password, either delete it or set it to blanks.
In the case of Hide/Disable,
,
, you must enter the codes of items to hide
or disable instead of a password. A lower case letter indicates the
less powerful Hide function and an upper case letter indicates the more
powerful Disable function. Thus, a lower case "x" will hide the "DOS
shell" but allow the F8 short cut key to shell to DOS. An upper case
"X" will not only hide the "DOS shell" but disallow the F8 short cut
key. An item without a short cut key is disabled when hidden (ie. there
is no difference between hide and disable). The following table shows
the codes to type and the associated item hidden/disabled:
71
Short
Code: cut key: Item hidden or disabled:
---- ----- --------------------------------------------------
K F7 Hot key display
X F8, F9 DOS shell and exit
E Edit menu bar item and items in its pull down menu
O Options menu bar item and its pull down menu, but
doesn't disable items within the pull down menu
that have short cut keys
D Directory item in options pull down menu
S Ctrl+F5 Security item in options pull down menu
R Reset item in options pull down menu
U Update mode item in options pull down menu
I User ID item in options pull down menu
P Protect Clear item in window pull down menu
4. When the desired passwords have been entered or changed, press the OK
button or the Enter key to save the changes. To cancel the changes press
the Cancel button or the Esc key.
All passwords can be the same. This will have the effect of
NOTE:
protecting with one password.
Miscellaneous
=============
The remaining options are grouped together under miscellaneous. These
options are broken into three groups. The first group applies to the input
prompt window, the second group to the screen and the last group is the
remaining options.
To change the miscellaneous options, press M from the option drop down menu.
This will display the miscellaneous options window below. You may then Tab
to a field and modify it. When you are finished press the OK button or the
Enter key to accept the changes. To cancel any changes made, press the
Cancel button or the Esc key.
72
+- Prompt window edit settings: -----------------------------------+
| Insert into or Overwrite text as key typed .... (I/O): I |
| Clear initial text if first key is valid input? (Y/N): Y |
| Cursor placement at Start or End of text ...... (S/E): E |
+- Screen settings: -----------------------------------------------+
| Cascade menu windows at startup? .............. (Y/N): Y |
| Wallpaper character .... (ASCII number from 0 to 255): 277 |
| Smart shadowing of windows? ................... (Y/N): Y |
| Maximum number of lines on screen ........ (25/43/50): 25 |
| Show date, time and key status in status line? (Y/N): Y |
+- Other settings: ------------------------------------------------+
| Maximum number of menu levels allowed ..... (1 to 10): 5 |
| Seconds to wait before screen blanked ..... (0=never): 180 |
| Main menu name ......................................: Main |
| Mouse sensitivity .............. (1-99 or 0=no mouse): 8 |
| Clear keyboard after running a selection? ..... (Y/N): Y |
+------------------------------------------------------------------+
| < OK > < Cancel > < Help > |
+------------------------------------------------------------------+
> Insert into or Overwrite text as key typed. When the prompt window is
first displayed, which mode should be used? The valid choices are "I"
for insert mode or "O" for overwrite mode. Insert mode causes the key
typed to be inserted at the cursor. Overwrite mode causes the key
typed to replace the character the cursor is under.
> Clear initial text if first key is valid input? If the first key
entered is a valid input (non-directional) key, should default text
within the prompt window be cleared first? The valid choices are "Y"
for yes or "N" for no.
> Cursor placement at Start or End of text? When the prompt window is
first displayed, should the cursor be placed at the start or the end of
the default text? The valid choices are "S" for start of "E" for end.
> Cascade menu windows at startup? Should the windows for your menus be
cascaded (yes) or be as large as possible (no) when MAXimize is first
started? Choosing yes results in smaller windows that overlap, while
no results in a larger window that can display more selections. While
running MAXimize, you can flip between the two settings at any time by
pressing Alt+W C or the F3 short cut key.
> Wall paper character. This is the decimal value from 0 to 255 of the
character to use as wall paper. The default is 177. See the back of
the reference card for an ASCII table of characters and their
equivalent decimal values.
> Smart shadowing of windows? MAXimize uses "smart" shadowing. Smart
shadowing will shadow a window if its background and the window it
overlays are NOT black. If you want your windows shadowed, choose "Y"
and use non-black backgrounds. Choosing "N" will turn shadowing off.
73
> Maximum number of lines on screen? You may specify the maximum number
of lines you want to display on your screen. Valid numbers are 25, 43
and 50. Only EGA and VGA video tubes are capable of 43 lines. The VGA
video tube is the only one capable of 50 lines. Regardless of the
number you specify, MAXimize will not exceed the capability of your
video tube. If the number you specify is too large, MAXimize will use
the highest line number possible for your video tube. Thus, you can
specify 50 for EGA video tubes, but only 43 lines will be used.
> Show date, time and key status in status line? Should the current
date, time and key status (Caps lock, insert/overwrite mode, Num lock,
Ctrl and Alt) show up in the status line? The valid choices are "Y"
for yes or "N" for no. If you choose "N", then additional help will be
displayed where the status information was. Another use of "N" is to
keep MAXimize from constantly updating the screen's status line. This
can be useful with some windowing software packages, such as main frame
3270 emulation.
> Maximum number of menu levels allowed. This is the number of user
submenu levels allowed, including the main menu. This IS NOT the
number of total submenus allowed, but how deep the submenus can be
cascaded (ot stacked). If you do not plan to use the cascaded windows
option, then specify 10. Otherwise, this number will affect the size
of the windows when cascading. Therefore, be sure to specify a number
that will provide sufficient levels of submenus and also provide the
size of menu desired.
> Seconds to wait before screen blanked. This is the number of seconds
MAXimize waits for a response before clearing the screen. Thus, if you
get interrupted by a phone call, the characters currently on the screen
will not get "burnt" into the screen. The user can press any key to
display the screen again. Enter 0 to deactivate this option (that is,
screen will not be cleared at all) or enter the number of seconds
MAXimize should wait for a response before clearing the screen.
> Main menu name. Type your main menu name here. The default main menu
name is "Main". You may make an existing or new menu your main menu.
If a new menu name is entered, a menu with no selections will be
displayed the next time the main menu is displayed. You may then add
selections to this menu.
> Mouse sensitivity. To turn your mouse on, set the sensitivity to a
non-zero number (start at 8.. You may want to adjust the sensitivity
based on your mouse and personal preference. Smaller numbers are more
sensitive than larger numbers. To turn the mouse off, set the number
to zero. If you have no mouse, this option is ignored.
> Clear keyboard after running a selection? Allows you to choose whether
the keyboard should be cleared of any excess keys after choosing a
selection that runs a program, batch file or commands. Clearing the
keyboard will keep novice users from accidentally choosing selections
(by hitting keys during the running of the program/commands before the
menu reappears). Experienced users may prefer not clearing the
keyboard, thus allowing them to choose the next selection before
viewing the menu. Valid choices are "Y" to clear keyboard or "N" not
to clear it.
74
Reset Options
=============
The reset selection in the options drop down menu allows you to reset your
options to their original values (as shipped). MAXimize will reset all of
the options, except the passwords. When you reset the options, you must
choose whether the windows should have colored or black backgrounds. The
black background is mainly used for black and white monitors, but does use
colors for the foreground letters (these are bland colors that work on all
video tubes).
Update Mode
===========
You may need to change many selections on several menus using different
operations (add, update, delete, etc.). While making these changes, you may
prefer to stay within the setup routine while you make your changes. This
would avoid having to enter the setup password repeatedly and the short
delay associated with loading the setup program for each operation. Update
mode allows you to do just that - switch into the setup routine to make
multiple changes.
There are two methods you may use to enter this mode. The first is to press
Alt+O U while in MAXimize and the second is to invoke MAXSETUP.EXE (in the
MAXimize directory) from the DOS prompt. Both will put you into update
mode. However, the second method is provided for computers that do not have
sufficient memory for MAXimize to load the setup program. If you receive an
insufficient memory message, then you must run MAXSETUP.EXE from the DOS
prompt instead of using Alt+E or Alt+O U from within MAXimize.
If you have established a setup password in the options, then no matter how
you enter setup, the setup password must be provided first. However, with
the update mode, this is done once, instead of for each operation.
Once you are in the update mode, you will see "Update Mode:" in the lower
left corner of the screen. You may only pick selections that display a sub-
menu, in which case the sub-menu will be displayed. To navigate to other
menus use the same keys (Esc, \, F7, etc.) that you normally use.
To modify a menu or selection(s), follow the same instructions outlined
earlier. That is: find the menu, mark selection(s), press Alt+E, choose the
operation (ex. update), and then follow the instructions for the chosen
operation. When the operation is complete, you will be returned to update
mode. Repeat the above process until your modifications are complete. To
leave update mode, press Alt+O U.
75
User ID
=======
The "User ID" selection on the option drop down menu allows you to change
the setup (ie. menus, colors, directories, etc.) to those of another user.
Thus, multiple users can share the same MAXimize files and have different
setups. Each user of MAXimize that wants a different setup should have a
unique user ID. A user who wants more than one setup may have multiple user
IDs. These user IDs must be valid DOS file names without an extension.
They can exceed 7 characters in length, but the first 7 characters must be
unique. The default user ID is MAXIMIZE.
To change the current user ID and its associated setup, simply press Alt+O I
and enter the new user ID. The setup will be changed to that of the new
user ID and the main menu will be displayed. Each user may then change the
setup (eq. colors or main menu) to suit their preference, while running
MAXimize from the same set of files.
As an example of how this could be used, press Alt+O I and enter a user ID
of your first name. Then change the colors (in particular, the background
color of the main window) as described earlier. Also, change the main menu
name in the miscellaneous options to something other than MAIN (like GAMES).
Now you should switch between the MAXIMIZE default user ID and your first
name, by pressing Alt+O I and entering the user ID. Note how MAXimize
switches the colors and the main menu when you switch the user IDs. This
applies to all options, not just with the colors and main menu name.
Another use is to have separate menus for each user, while also sharing some
menus. To do this, create a directory to contain the shared menus (eq.
C:\MAX\SHARED) and a directory for each user (eq. C:\MAX\userid - fill in
their user ID) that wants their own menus. Then each user who only wants
the shared menus will specify a "Menus & Hot keys path" directory of the
shared directory (C:\MAX\SHARED). Those users who want their own menus in
addition to the shared menus would specify both
(C:\MAX\userid;C:\MAX\SHARED). Finally, users who want only their menus
would specify their directory (C:\MAX\userid). Please review the "Menus &
Hot keys path" item in the "Directories" section of this chapter for more
information.
NOTE: Review the /U switch of MAX.EXE in chapter 1 under the section titled
"Invoking MAXimize with Parameters". This switch allows you to set the user
ID when invoking MAXimize. Also, you may set the ID environment variable to
the desired user ID before invoking MAXimize. This could be used to set the
user ID in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
76
Project
=======
The "Project" selection on the option drop down menu allows you to change
the project you are using to track program usage by. This allows you to
keep track of what programs you used for a project and how much time you
spent in those programs. The current project will be displayed in the upper
right hand corner of the screen. You may click on this area, press Alt+O P
or use the short cut key of F5 to enter or change the current project.
Please review the chapter on Controlling and Monitoring Access for more
information.
77
Chapter 5: Using MAXimize's Utilities
=====================================
This chapter contains information about the useful utilities included with
MAXimize. Some of these utilities are provided to enhance your batch files
and selections that use the "command stream" format. While the others work
with the menus or options.
Asking Questions from Batch Files with ASK
==========================================
ASK.COM is a program designed specifically for batch files or the "command
stream" type of selection. ASK can be used to request a drive letter such
as A, B or C from within batch commands. Another use is to ask if the batch
file should continue after a program fails. ASK will display a message and
then wait for the user to enter a valid key. This key is then returned in
the DOS ERRORLEVEL. The batch file should then check the ERRORLEVEL to see
which key was entered. The syntax for ASK is:
ASK [Prompt string];[Valid keys]
All of the parameters are optional. If no parameters or a single question
mark is given to ASK, a short copyright statement and syntax is displayed.
The "Prompt string" is the question being asked or message to display. It
should indicate what information is being requested. For example, it could
be "Please enter a drive letter (A,b or c):" or "Program failed, continue
(Y,n)?" If no "Prompt String" is given, then none is printed. In this
case, it is assumed that this has already been done by an ECHO statement(s).
The "Valid keys" are keys that may be entered in response to the question.
The first key in the list must be the default key. This key will be
returned when the user hits the Enter key. To allow the user to press the
Esc key, include an exclamation point (!) as a valid key. The space bar can
be included as a valid key by imbedding it within the list of valid keys.
For example, specify "A A" to allow for the letter A or the space bar. If
no valid keys are entered, then any key will be allowed (including extended
keys such as F2).
The ASK program will first print the "Prompt string" to the screen if
specified. It will then perform somewhat differently depending on whether a
list of valid keys was included.
If a list of valid keys was given, then the key entered must match (case is
ignored) one of these valid keys. If the key does not match, ASK issues a
beep sound and waits for another key. Once a valid key is entered, the key
will be shifted into upper case and printed after the prompt string.
Pressing the Enter key will return the first key in the list of valid keys.
Hitting the Esc key will check the valid keys for an exclamation point (!)
and if found, return the exclamation point. Depressing the exclamation
point key will cause ASK to beep and wait for another key.
If NO valid keys are given, then the exact key entered is returned. No
checking of key validity or shifting to upper case is done. The key entered
is not printed after the prompt string. For extended key strokes, a zero is
returned. You MUST call ASK with just a semi-colon (ASK ;) to get the second
part of the extended key.
78
After the ASK program has been called, the calling batch file should check
the DOS ERRORLEVEL to determine which key was entered. The check must be
for the key's ASCII decimal equivalent (ex. 65 for the letter A). Also,
when you have multiple checks to determine which key was entered, always
start with the highest decimal value to the lowest key (ex. Z to A, 9 to 0
and then !). For example:
:Another
ASK Enter one of these keys: A, M, 0, 2 or Esc ; AMZ029!
IF ERRORLEVEL 77 GOTO KeyM
IF ERRORLEVEL 65 GOTO KeyA
IF ERRORLEVEL 50 GOTO Key2
IF ERRORLEVEL 48 GOTO Key0
IF ERRORLEVEL 33 GOTO End
:KeyM
ECHO Key entered was M
GOTO Another
;KeyA
ECHO Key entered was A
GOTO Another
.
. .
:End
Notes:ASK.COM should be in a directory that has been included in your DOS
PATH. Make sure MAXimize's directory is in the DOS PATH.
The ASCII decimal values for each key can be found on the back of the
reference card included with MAXimize.
You will notice that the ASK program is like the &Menu function. The
difference is that the &Menu function is executed as part of a
selection, prior to the execution of the batch commands (during the
"compilation" of the batch file for a selection). The ASK program is
executed as your batch commands are executed.
Examples of ASK in Batch Files:
-------------------------------
The following code will ask whether a batch file should continue:
.
ASK Should batch file continue (Y,n): ;YN!
IF NOT ERRORLEVEL 89 GOTO End
Echo batch file continues
.
:End
The next example will ask which drive to run CHKDSK on:
ASK Please enter drive letter to check (a,b,C): ;CAB
IF ERRORLEVEL 67 GOTO ChkC
IF ERRORLEVEL 66 GOTO ChkB
CHKDSK A:
79
GOTO End
:ChkB
CHKDSK B:
GOTO End
:ChkC
CHKDSK C:
GOTO End
:End
Finally, a list of items to choose from is presented through ECHO
statements. The user may then select one:
CLS
ECHO Please choose item by pressing desired number or hit enter for 1:
ECHO 1. Display current directory
ECHO 2. Display current disk's volume label
ECHO 3. Display files in current directory
ASK ;123!
IF ERRORLEVEL 51 GOTO Key3
IF ERRORLEVEL 50 GOTO Key2
IF ERRORLEVEL 49 GOTO Key1
GOTO End
:Key1
CD
GOTO End
:Key2
VOL
GOTO End
:Key3
DIR /W
:End
Making the Computer BEEP
========================
BEEP.COM is also a program specifically designed for batch files or the
"command stream" type of selections. It will cause your computer's speaker
to beep. This can be very useful in alerting you of an error that occurred
within the batch file. Also, it can be used in conjunction with the ASK
program to alert the user that the batch file needs a question answered.
The syntax for BEEP is:
BEEP [?]
If the question mark or an invalid parameter is specified, BEEP will display
a short copyright statement and syntax. If no parameters are specified,
BEEP will cause your computers speaker to beep. An example of using BEEP
with ASK, after an error in a batch file follows:
80
.
.
:Error
BEEP
ASK An error occurred within this batch file - continue (Y,n): ;YN!
IF NOT ERRORLEVEL 89 GOTO End
ECHO Batch file continues
.
.
:End
Notes: BEEP.COM should be in a directory that has been included in your DOS
PATH. Make sure MAXimize's directory is in the DOS PATH.
Viewing a File's Contents
=========================
Included with MAXimize is a VIEW.EXE program that allows you to view the
text in files. This program is useful within batch files, selections and
from the DOS prompt. The syntax for VIEW is:
VIEW [Drive:][Directory]Filename[.Ext]
The parameter past to view is the name of the file to be viewed. If view is
not given a file name or it is a question mark, then view will display a
short copyright statement and syntax. The drive is not required if the file
is on the current drive. The directory is not required if the file exists
on the current directory for the specified drive. The extension (Ext) is
required if the file has an extension. For example, to view your
AUTOEXEC.BAT file enter:
C> VIEW C:\AUTOEXEC.BAT
To change the colors of the view program, press the letter C. Then use the
following keys:
Key: Action:
------ -------------------------------------------------
Ctrl+F changes the text foreground color
Ctrl+B changes the text background color
Alt+F changes the top and bottom line foreground colors
Alt+B changes the top and bottom line background colors
As you press these keys, the view program will rotate through the available
colors. I would suggest that you pick the desired background colors first
and then the foreground colors. When you are finished with the colors,
press the Esc key. The view program will then ask you if the colors should
be saved. Type Y to save the colors.
81
If you have a program that produces a lot of text to the screen, causing the
screen to scroll, you can use the DOS MORE filter. Another approach would
be to direct this output to a temporary file, view the file and then delete
it. This has the added benefit over MORE of allowing the user to page up
and down through the text. As an example, the DIR command's text could be
viewed as follows:
ECHO OFF
DIR %1 %2 %3 %4 %5 %6 %7 %8 %9 > \tempfile
VIEW \tempfile
DEL \tempfile
Notes: VIEW.EXE should be in a directory that has been included in your DOS
PATH. Make sure MAXimize's directory is in the DOS PATH.
Changing the Setup with MAXSETUP
================================
The MAXSETUP program allows you to update MAXimize's menus, hot keys and
options. It is used by MAX when you update the setup, but can also be
invoked from the DOS prompt. You may need to invoke MAXSETUP from the DOS
prompt if MAX displays error message 907 (insufficient memory) when you try
to update the setup. When MAXSETUP is invoked, it will put you into the
"Update Mode" which is described in Chapter 4. The syntax for MAXSETUP is:
MAXSETUP [menu name] [Switch(es)]
The switches are:
/B Initialize the colors to have black backgrounds. Sets colors for
screens that cannot display them (like monochrome screens).
/K Are keys to be entered after MAXimize starts (as if they were entered
from the keyboard). This allows selections to be invoked when
starting MAXimize (especially from an AUTOEXEC.BAT file). Hot keys
are represented by the @ sign followed by the desired key (ex. @A is
Ctrl+A). Use @@ to represent a single @ sign.
Preventing Control Break and Reboot
===================================
The NOBREAK.COM Terminate and Stay Resident (TSR) program allows you to
prevent anyone from breaking out of a Batch file line AUTOEXEC.BAT or
MAXimize. The Ctrl+C and Ctrl+Break keys are disabled. Also, the
Ctrl+Alt+Del key is disabled as well to prevent reboot using this key
combination. This program would normally be invoked as part of you
AUTOEXEC.BAT file. The syntax for TYPEKEY is:
NOBREAK
For example, you can include NOBREAK in your AUTOEXEC.BAT as below. To use
the minimum about of space, be sure to set all environment variables to null
(delete them) and run NOBREAK from the root of your C drive. This should
result in the NOBREAK TSR using about 368 bytes!
82
@SET PATH=
@SET COMPSEC=
@C:\NOBREAK.COM
@SET COMSPEC=C:\COMMAND.COM
.
.
Warning: NOBREAK disables Ctrl+C. All programs, including MAXimize with its
hot keys, will not be able to use Ctrl+C!
Typing Keys Automatically
=========================
The TYPEKEY.EXE program allows you to type keys as if they were entered from
the keyboard. This can be used to type in keys that you always enter when
entering an application. TYPEKEY will let you enter up to 15 key strokes
which will replace any keystrokes already entered from the keyboard. The
syntax for TYPEKEY is:
TYPEKEY key(s)
The parameter past to TYPEKEY is the key(s) to type. If TYPEKEY is not
given any parameters it will display a short copyright statement and syntax.
The key(s) can be entered as non-numeric text, or any text in quotes or as
decimal numbers that represent the ASCII code to enter. Please review the
&KEY for a list of ASCII codes. For example to enter F10, TEXT1, Enter in a
batch file:
@ECHO OFF
TYPEKEY 0 68 TEXT "1" 13
.
.
NOTE: 0 68 is the ASCII code for F10 and 13 is the ASCII code for Enter.
Delayed Execution of Commands
=============================
The WAITTILL.COM program allows you to delay the execution of commands
within a batch file until a specified time of day or until a key is pressed.
This can be useful for doing backups of your hard disk or to download from
bulletin boards during the night. The syntax for WAITTILL is:
WAITTILL [/Thh:mm:ss] [message]
The parameter past to WAITTILL is the time to wait till and a message to
display while waiting. If WAITTILL is not given any parameters it will
clear the screen and wait for a key to be pressed. The time may be
turncated and should be specifed as in a 24:00 clock. For example, to delay
the execution of commands within a batch file until eight PM, the batch file
would contain:
83
@ECHO OFF
WAITTILL /T20:00 Waiting until 8 PM to download files, press Esc to abort.
IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO STOP
REM Place commands to run after this remark:
.
.
.
:STOP
The user may abort the wait by pressing the Esc key. This will return an
ERRORLEVEL of 1. Any other key stroke or when the specified time is reached
will return an ERRORLEVEL of 0.
Mouse Initialization
=====================
The FIXMOUSE.COM program will reset the mouse, leaving it in the proper
state for MAXimize. This program should be used after running a program
from within a MAXimize selection that leaves the mouse in an improper state.
FIXMOUSE will also tell you if the mouse is "FAST" (the mouse software must
be at the Microsoft versioni 6 level). FIXMOUSE has no parameters.
Converting Menus to MAXimize
============================
The MAXCONVT.EXE program will convert AutoMenu(R) menu definition files
(those with the MDF extension) or Max-Menu version 1.? format to MAXimize
menus. This utility is distributed separately - please read the README
file.
The conversion from MDF files is not precise, but should be fairly close.
Therefore, after a conversion, be sure to update the selections to verify
they are correct. The syntax for MAXCONVT is:
MAXCONVT [Drive:][Directory]Filename.Extension
If no parameters or a single question mark are passed to MAXCONVT, then a
short copyright statement and its syntax is displayed. The file
specification indicates which files are to be converted. The extension must
be *, ???, MNU, SET, KYS or MDF. The * or ??? extensions indicate that all
menus, hot keys and MDF files should be converted (KYS, SET and MNU files
are converted from Max-Menu version 1.? to MAXimize version 3.0 format).
To convert MDF files, change to the MAXimize directory and run MAXCONVT
giving it the file specification of the MDF files to convert. For example,
if the MDF files are in directory C:\AUTOMENU, then enter the following
commands:
C> CD \MAX
C> MAXCONVT C:\AUTOMENU\*.MDF
84
This will convert all files in the C:\AUTOMENU directory with an extension
of MDF and store the new files in the C:\MAX directory. Be sure to specify
an extension of MDF, since this tells the conversion routine the type of
file it is converting.
85
Chapter 6: Controlling and Monitoring Access
============================================
This chapter contains general information about security features that
control access to MAXimize, DOS and the setup (options, menus and
selections). The actual information on how to specify security passwords
has been addressed in previous chapters. Also covered in this chapter is
the optional usage log and license control features. The usage log allows
you to monitor and report on which applications are being used by whom, for
what project and for how long. In addition, the usage log keeps track of
security violations and rejected accesses. The license control feature
allows companies to purchase fewer copies of a software product then there
are potential users, since MAXimize will ensure the number of concurrent
users does not exceed the license agreement for that product.
Security
========
Forgotten Passwords
===================
MAXimize has a very generous password protection system. This allows for
preventing unauthorized access and changes to MAXimize and its setup (menu,
selection, setup, etc.). Once this password protection is set, it may not
be removed unless you either know the password or the Creator password. The
same is true when trying to view a menu or choose a selection that is
password protected. For this reason, it is very important to set the
Creator password to identify you as the creator of MAXimize. It is equally
important not to forget it!
If you forget a menu or selection password, you (that is the creator of
MAXimize) may enter the Creator password instead. The Creator password will
always be accepted on any prompt for a password. To determine what the menu
password is, display and then modify the menu. To determine what a
selection's password is, update the selection. In either case, you will
need to enter the Creator password when requested for the menu/selection
password (assuming you have forgotten it). You may then view or modify the
password through the normal menu/selection update window.
Protecting MAXimize or DOS Access
=================================
You may prevent unauthorized access to MAXimize or to the DOS prompt once
someone is in MAXimize. These are accomplished by setting the Entry and
Quitting passwords within the options. In addition, if both of these are
set, then once the person attempts to use MAXimize, they will not be allowed
to quit until they have typed the Entry password. This can be useful since
it can prevent unauthorized access to your computer at startup. To do this,
include MAXimize in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file and set both an Entry and
Quitting password (the same password can be used for both). Then, when your
computer is powered on, the Entry password must be enter before anyone can
use your computer. Also consider using the NOBREAK TSR provided. This TSR
will prevent the person from breaking out of your batch files, such as
AUTOEXEC.BAT.
86
Preventing Unauthorized Changes
===============================
MAXimize also prevents unauthorized changes to the setup (options, menus and
selections) through the Setup password. The Setup password is specified in
the options and must be entered each time someone attempts to modify the
setup. This can become bothersome when doing multiple changes. For this
reason and to improve the speed of change operations on slower machines,
MAXimize provides an Update mode. This mode will prompt for the Setup
password once, and then let you perform multiple change operations quickly.
Securing an Unattended Computer
===============================
You may secure an unattended computer from unauthorized access by specifying
the Protect Clear password (press Alt+W P or the Ctrl+F10 short cut key).
Then whenever you press Shift+F10 or the screen save feature occurs, your
computer's screen will be cleared. Anyone attempting to use the computer
will then have to enter the Protect Clear password. Thus, you can manually
secure your computer by pressing Shift+F10 or allow MAXimize to do it
automatically with the screen save feature.
Protecting Menus and Selections
===============================
MAXimize also allows each menu and selection to be password protected. This
password must be entered whenever the menu or selection is updated. It is
also required when an attempt is made to view the menu or the selection is
chosen. To protect a menu or selection, simply update or add the
menu/selection and enter the password in the indicated field.
NOTE:Password protecting a selection that displays a menu does not protect
the menu. Other selections could also display the menu or the person
could start MAXimize giving it the unprotected menu. Thus, this
protection can be easily bypassed. Therefore, use the menu password
to protect menus.
Selection Password Annoying
===========================
Selection password protection can become bothersome for selections you
repeatedly choose, since the password is requested each time. As an
alternative, group selections to be protected on a menu(s) and use the menu
password. Then, the password will be requested once when the menu is
displayed as opposed to each time a selection is chosen.
87
Truly Securing MAXimize
=======================
To really secure your MAXimize system you need to specify your own
Encryption Key and use the NOBREAK TSR. The Encryption Key prevents someone
from copying the menus to another computer and then using them. It also
prevents them from bypassing security on your computer (this is possible,
but will not be discussed here for obvious reasons). The Encryption Key
encodes the menu files, thus preventing any possible attempt to use your
menus or bypass your security.
The NOBREAK TSR disables the Ctrl+Break, Ctrl+C and Ctrl+Alt+Delete keys.
This will prevent anyone from intentionally or inadvertently breaking out of
MAXimize while it is running a batch file and also prevents them from
rebooting. Without the NOBREAK TSR, it is possible for someone to break out
of MAXimize and enter commands at the DOS prompt.
Monitoring Access
=================
Whether you are a LAN administrator or own a computer in your home, you will
probably be interested in knowing which applications are being used, when,
by whom and for how long. For example, lets say you installed a piece of
shareware software (like a game for the kids). Wouldn't it be nice to know
that its being used frequently? If it is, you would pay for it. Otherwise
you might consider removing it from your hard disk to save space. For a
business, this can be helpful in justifying the purchase of the software or
additional software. It can also be used to determine which persons used
the software and for which projects.
MAXimize allows you to generate a variety of summary reports. For example,
reports can be generate on how often someone runs any program or a specific
program, for how long and for which project. Reports can also be generated
for all programs, or a specific program, showing how often they are used,
by whom, for which projects and for how long. From these summary reports,
you can easily tell who is using which programs and how often a program is
used.
In addition to the monitoring mentioned above, MAXimize allows you to
monitor security violations as well. Thus, you can easily determine if
someone is attempting to violate your security by viewing the usage log.
Finally, the usage log allows you to determine which programs are currently
being used and by whom. This is useful on LANs, particularly if you have
purchased the optional license control feature.
The Usage Log
=============
The usage log is a standard XBase database that MAXimize uses to keep track
of who is using which programs, for which projects, at what time and for how
long. MAXimize also uses this database to log security violations and
rejected accesses. A rejected access occurs when the license control
feature prevents someone from using a program because all copies are in use.
88
The name of the usage log database is MAXLOG.DBF and it should reside in the
same directory as the MAXLOG.EXE program (except if you set the MAXDIR
environment variable to the directory MAXLOG.DBF can be found in). The
format of the usage log database is:
Field: Length: Description:
------------ ------- ---------------------------------------------
Status 1 Status of entry:
I = In Use
U = Used
S = Security Violation
R = Rejected Access (license control feature)
Userid 7 User ID of the person
Project 8 Project they are working on
May be blank if user didn't set project
Program 12 Program used or attempted to be used
Start_Date 6 Date when the selection was chosen
Format = YYMMDD
Start_Time 6 Time when the selection was chosen
Format = HHMMSS
Used_Time 6 How long the selection was used
Format = HHMMSS
Since the usage log is a standard XBase database, you can manipulate and
generate reports using any standard XBase database program, such as DBase
III+. You can also import it into many programs, such as spreadsheets.
To view the usage log, simply run MAXLOG.EXE. If you have the optional
license control feature, you will have to select Usage log. The usage log
will be displayed in date/time sequence as follows:
+===============================================================+
| Userid Project Program Date Start Time Used |
+===============================================================+
| DEREK PROJECT1 WP.EXE 92/06/24 09:30:00 00:31:42 |
| JANET PROJECT2 Q.EXE 92/06/29 10:42:23 01:44:06 |
| RYAN PROJECT1 WP.EXE 92/06/29 11:00:00 03:40:25 |
| RYAN PROJECT2 Q.EXE 92/06/29 13:00:00 REJECTED |
| DEREK PROJECT1 WP.EXE 92/06/29 14:00:00 01:20:30 |
| JANET PROJECT2 WP.EXE 92/07/29 14:23:00 00:14:01 |
| DEREK PROJECT1 Q.EXE 92/07/30 08:15:20 04:20:12 |
| JANET PROJECT1 Q.EXE 92/07/30 08:40:16 02:22:10 |
| RYAN PROJECT1 BC.EXE 92/07/30 09:40:00 SECURITY |
| JANET PROJECT1 Q.EXE 92/07/30 13:20:00 03:14:15 |
| RYAN PROJECT1 WP.EXE 92/08/22 15:20:00 IN USE |
+===============================================================+
| F1=Help U=Set-Used S=Sequence ^v PgDn PgUp |
| Q=Query C=Clear-Query R=Report ESC=Exit |
+===============================================================+
The number of records will be displayed just above the usage log window and
to the right. Use the up and down arrow keys to move the report one line at
a time, the PgUp and PgDn keys to page through the report, and the Home and
End keys to move to the top and bottom respectively. Finally, press the Esc
key to exit the usage log display.
89
The format of the date field is YY/MM/DD and the project the person was
working on may be blank unless set by the person (see options). Also, the
time used may appear as:
Time Used: Description:
---------- -----------------------------------------------------
HH:MM:SS The amount of time the program was used
In use The person is currently using the program
Security The person attempted to violate security
Rejected The person's attempt to use the program was rejected
since the current number of users is equal to the
number of licenses purchased. This applies only the
optional LAN license control feature.
The program is actually the value specified in the Track By field of the
selection. Generally, this should be the program name. However, for
security violations, the program will be set to one of the following values
to indicate what security the person attempted to violate:
Program: Person tried to:
------------ ---------------------------------------------------------
PASSWORDS set setup passwords but did not know Creator password
SET ENTRY set Entry password but didn't know prior one
SET QUIT set Quitting password but didn't know prior one
SET SETUP set Setup password but didn't know prior one
SET SECURE set PC Secure password but didn't know prior one
SET CRYPT set Encryption Key but didn't know prior one
MAX ENTRY enter MAXimize
MAX QUIT quit MAXimize
MAX SHELL shell out to DOS
MAX SECURE reenter MAXimize after screen cleared and PC secured, but
didn't know PC Secure password
MAX SETUP change the setup (options, menus or selections), but
didn't know Setup password
Track By run or update selection with the specified Track By
field, but didn't know its password
Description run or update selection with no Track By field. but
didn't know its password. The selection description is
truncated to 12 characters and used as the program name.
Menu name tried to view a menu and didn't know its password
Reducing the Data Viewed
========================
The usage log can become too large for you to quickly find the data you are
interested in by paging through it. For example, you may want to find data
for a specific program, such as WP.EXE, or a person with a user ID of JANET.
Or perhaps you want to find specific data where both the user ID is JANET
and the program is WP.EXE. It would be difficult to scroll through 1,000
lines to find them. MAXimize solves this problem by providing the ability
to Query, which allows you to quickly reduce the data being viewed to those
of interest to you. To query the usage log, press Q and the following
window will appear:
90
+============================ Usage Log Query ============================+
| +-------------------- |
| Status | Programs In Use: Y <- Enter Y to Include |
| | Programs Used: Y Enter N to Exclude |
| | Rejected Accesses: Y |
| | Security Violations: Y |
| +-------------------- |
| Only Include Userid: _______ <- Blank for ALL Userids |
| |
| Only Include Project: ________ <- Blank for ALL Projects |
| |
| Only Include Program: _____________ <- Blank for ALL Programs |
| |
| Programs started From Date: 92/01/01 <- Use YY/MM/DD format |
| Time: 00:00:00 Use HH:MM:SS format |
| |
| Through Date: 92/08/24 |
| Time: 23:59:59 |
| |
| F1-Help ENTER=Done ESC=Cancel |
+=========================================================================+
The usage log query window allows you to specify the specific data you are
interested in viewing or reporting. Within this window you may specify
which of the four status's you want to view (Programs In Use, Programs Used,
Rejected Accesses and Security Violations). Enter "Y" next to at least one
status. If you are interested in data for one user ID, program or project,
you should specify this in the window. If you are interested in a specific
date range, again specify this in the window. When you are done specifying
what to query on, press Enter to accept the query or Esc to cancel the
query. The number of records which satisfy the query will be displayed in
the upper right corner. You will then be returned to the usage log display
which will show only data that satisfies the values you specified in the
query. To clear the query and again display all the usage log data, press
C.
Provided here is just a few examples of what the query capability can be
used to determine:
> what programs someone is currently using (specify their user ID and the
Programs In Use status only).
> all the programs that are currently being used (specify the Programs In
Use status only).
> what programs are still in use, but were started prior to today.
(specify the Programs In Use status only and an end date or yesterday)
> what programs were used for a project (specify the project)
> what programs does a person use (specify the user ID and the Programs
Used and Programs In Use status's only)
> what security violations have occurred (specify the Security Violation
status only)
> which people and programs where rejected due to too few licenses
(specify the Rejected Access status only)
91
Sequencing the Usage Log Data
=============================
The Usage log is sequenced (or ordered) by the start date and time. You may
want to change that sequence. For example, you could sequence the data by
user ID, program and start date/time. This example would show the first, or
primary, sequence to be user ID. Within user ID the data would be ordered
by program and for each person/program combination the data would be ordered
by start date/time.
To change the sequence of the data in the usage log display, press S and the
following window will be displayed:
+===================== Usage Log Sequence ==================+
| |
| USERID _ Enter 1 in the 1st sequence field, |
| 2 in the 2nd sequence field, 3 in |
| PROJECT _ the 3rd sequence field, etc. Leave |
| a field blank if you do not want to |
| PROGRAM _ include the field in the ordering |
| sequence. Subtotals will be printed |
| DATE/TIME _ for each field with a sequence number|
| when using the report option. |
| TIME USED _ |
| ENTER=Done ESC=Cancel |
+===========================================================+
Then enter the desired sequence by placing 1 next to the first field to
sequence, 2 next to the second field to sequence (within the first
sequence), 3 next to the third sequence, etc. Enter a blank next to any
item which you do not want part of the sequence. To sequence by user ID,
program and start date/time, enter 1 next to user ID, 2 next to program and
3 next to date. Then blank out the project and time used fields. Finally,
press the Enter key to accept the sequence or Esc to cancel it. The usage
log will be displayed with the desired sequence.
Set Program Used
================
MAXimize will automatically keep track of which programs are currently being
used. As part of this process, MAXimize will set the program to the used
status when it is exited. The process consists of changing the status to
"used" and filling in the amount of time the program was used. However, it
is possible for someone to accidentally prevent this process. This
generally occurs when the computer is powered off or rebooted before the
program is exited. You can easily determine if this has happened using the
query facility mentioned previously.
If you do not have the optional license control feature then the exposure is
very small - the time the program was used will be 0 seconds. This may
effect summary reports of the usage log. If the accuracy of these reports
is important to you, then you should set these programs as used. Of course,
the sooner this is done, the more accurate the reports will be.
92
If you do have the optional license control feature and the program is
registered in the license control database, the exposure is greater. In
addition to the summary report exposure mentioned above, one "copy" of the
program is still marked as being in use that nobody else can use. In this
case, you will certainly want to set the program to used to allow someone
else to use that copy of the program.
There are two ways to set the used status for a program. The first is to
query the usage log for programs in use (specify the Programs In Use status
only). You may want to narrow this query further by specifying the program
or user ID as well. Then position the selection bar over the program to set
to used and press U
The second method is to use the /U switch which is explained later in the
section titled "Periodic Maintenance to Databases".
Usage Log Reports
=================
The information in the usage log can be the basis for some very useful
reports. The reports generated by MAXimize will always include summary
information and can optionally include a detailed list of the data in the
usage log. The summary information includes the number of programs used and
the total amount of time spent in those programs. Also included are the
number of security violations, rejected accesses and how many are currently
in use. The summary information above can be printed for each user ID,
project, program, start date, or any combination of these.
For example, a report could be created for the "RealBig" project showing for
each person involved in that project, which programs they ran, how many
times they ran the program and for how long. Sub-totals are also shown for
each person. Finally, at the end of the report, grand totals are given for
the entire project. With this report, you can easily determine how much
time each individual spent on a project and which programs were used most.
To create a report, first query the usage log as outlined in the section
titled "Reducing the Data Viewed". Be sure to query just the data you want
to report on. This may be data for a specific person, project, program,
date range, etc. In the example above, you would set the query to view the
"RealBig" project. You may also want to exclude security violations,
programs in use and rejected accesses by setting these status's to "N".
After setting the query to view the desired data, you should set the proper
sequence for the report. This is described in the section titled
"Sequencing the Usage Log Data". Be sure to specify a sequence on only
those fields you want summary information for. This is important because
MAXimize generates summary information for each field that is part of the
sequence. For summary reports (no detail), if there are no sequence fields
then the report will summarize on user ID. Also, summary reports will
ignore Time Used if it was sequenced on. Again using the example above, the
sequence would be set to user ID (1) and program (2). This will set the
proper sequence and also generate summary information for each person as
well as for each program used by that person.
93
At this point, the usage log display should contain the desired data for the
report and have the proper sequence. Now press R for report. Then simply
indicate whether the detailed records should be part of the report and the
desired report destination (file/printer).
A sample summary report is shown below. This report is for user ID DEREK
and is sequenced within user ID by project and then program. Totals are
generated for each sequence field and for the entire report:
Usage Log Summary Report Page: 1
----------------------------------------------------
Userid Project Program Time Used Count
----------------------------------------------------
DEREK PROJECT1 Q.EXE 20:30:00 10
WP.EXE 26:01:12 6
------------ -----
DEREK, PROJECT1 Total --> 46:31:12 16
PROJECT2 QB.EXE 12:30:14 3
WP.EXE 03:00:21 1
------------ -----
DEREK, PROJECT2 Total --> 15:30:35 4
------------ -----
DEREK Total --> 62:01:47 20
------------ -----
Report Total --> 62:01:47 20
Limiting License Usage
======================
The license control feature may be purchased as part of the LAN version of
MAXimize. With this feature the LAN administrator can purchased fewer
copies of a program than there are potential users of the program. All the
LAN administrator needs to do is register these programs within the license
control database indicating the total number of licensed copies for each
program. Then MAXimize will ensure that the number of users that are
concurrently using these programs does not exceed the number of licenses
purchased. This can result in considerable savings since it isn't necessary
to purchase copies for everyone on the LAN.
Not only will MAXimize prevent too many people from using a program, it will
also keep track of the following for each program registered:
> who is currently using them
> the largest number of concurrent users
> the current number of users
> the total number of uses
> the total number of user accesses rejected because there weren't enough
copies available
Using the above information, the LAN administrator can view or print reports
that will tell them if they have purchased enough copies of a program. This
94
can be determined by examining the largest number of concurrent users as
well as the number of rejected accesses. If more information is needed, the
usage log contains who is using (or has used) the program as well as who and
when someone has been rejected because there weren't enough licensed copies.
Thus, MAXimize provides all the information and capabilities a LAN
administrator needs to effectively and easily manage the licenses for
programs.
License Control
===============
The license control database is a standard XBase database MAXimize uses to
control the number of people that can use a program at once. The usage log
is also used for license control since it keeps track of who is using (and
has used) a program. In addition, all rejected accesses are recorded in the
usage log. The name of the license control database is MAXCHK.DBF and it
should reside in the same directory as the MAXLOG.EXE program (except if you
set the MAXDIR environment variable to the directory MAXCHK.DBF can be found
in). The format of the license control database is:
Field: Length: Description:
------------- ------- -------------------------------------------
Program 12 Program to control - matches selection's
Track By field.
Maximum 3 Maximum concurrent users of the program
(number of licenses purchased)
High_Water 3 Most users to have used the program
concurrently
In_Use 3 The number of users currently using the
program
Total_Used 4 The total number of times the program has
been used
Total_Rejects 4 The number of times an access was rejected
because there weren't enough licenses
available.
Reset Date 6 The date that the line was last modified.
This value can be changed by the LAN
administrator when the data is modified
(such as the totals being reset). The
format of this date field is YY/MM/DD.
Status 1 Status of license control:
*=Program execution disabled
Since the license control database is a standard XBase database, you can
manipulate and generate reports using any standard XBase database program,
such as DBase III+. You can also import it into many programs, such as
spreadsheets.
To view the license control database, simply run MAXLOG.EXE and choose the
License control selection. The license control database will be displayed
in program sequence as follows:
95
+===============================================================+
| Maximum Most Current Total Total Reset |
| Program In Use In Use In Use Used Rejects Date |
+===============================================================+
|*Q.EXE 20 15 3 95 0 92/08/17 |
| WP.EXE 20 18 11 225 10 92/08/17 |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
+===============================================================+
| F1=Help A=Add I=Show-In-Use ^v PgDn PgUp |
| E=Edit D=Delete R=Report *=Disabled ESC: Exit |
+===============================================================+
Use the up and down arrow keys to move the report one line at a time, the
PgUp and PgDn keys to page through the report, and the Home and End keys to
move to the top and bottom respectively. Finally, press the Esc key to exit
the license control display.
Add License Control
===================
There are two steps needed to control the maximum number of people that can
use a program concurrently. First, set the Track By field for each
selection that invokes the program to the program's name. Then while
viewing the license control database press A or the Insert key to add the
program to this file. In the window that appears, fill in the program's
name and the maximum number of concurrent users allowed. MAXimize will then
ensure that this maximum does not get exceeded.
NOTE: The Track By field in the selection and the Program in the license
control database do not have to be the program's name, but they
must match each other.
Edit License Control
====================
After a program has been added to the license control database, you may need
to change the information for that program. For example, you may need to
change the Maximum In Use after purchasing additional copies of the program.
You may also want to reset the totals such as Most In Use, Total Used and
Total Rejects back to zero. If you do change these totals, you may want to
change the Reset Date as well.
To edit the control information for a program, highlight the desired program
and press E or the equal (=) key. Then change the desired fields. Use the
tab key to skip fields that are not to be changed and press Enter when done.
96
Delete License Control
======================
To delete information about a program from the license control database,
simply highlight the desired program and press D or the Delete key. You may
find this necessary if you no longer use the program or if you buy a site
license.
Disable Program Execution
=========================
The LAN administrator may want to disable a program so it cannot be executed
by new users. When disabled, current users of the program may continue to
use it until they finish. Once the current users have stopped using the
program, maintenance or a new release can be implemented. To disable
program execution, highlight the desired program and press the asterick (*)
key. An asterick will be displayed to the left of the program indicating it
is disabled. To enable the program, again highlight the program and press
the asterick (*).
Display Current Users
=====================
While viewing the license control database, you may want to display the
current users for a program. In addition, you may find it necessary to set
one or more of these as being used. As explained earlier, this can be done
using the query facility on the usage log. However, MAXimize provides a
convenient method for doing this from within the license control display.
Simply highlight the program and press I. The current users of this program
will be displayed:
+========== WP.EXE ===========+
| Userid Date Start |
+=============================+
| RYAN 92/08/22 15:20:00 |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
+=============================+
| ^v PgDn PgUp |
| U=Set-Used ESC: Exit |
+=============================+
You may then set any program as being used by highlighting that program and
pressing U. To return to the license control display press the Esc key.
97
License Control Reports
=======================
The LAN administrator may want to print the information in the license
control database to determine growth. For example, each month the LAN
administrator could print off the license control report, which lists and
summarizes all license control information. Then the program's totals could
be reset. Using these reports, it should be fairly easy to see were the
growth in program usage is. To print a report of the license control
database, simply press R while viewing the license control database. Then
enter the desired destination file/printer for the report.
Periodic Maintenance to Databases
=================================
The usage log and license control databases will require periodic
maintenance. How often depends entirely on activity. Since the maintenance
procedures are quick and can be done as an unattended "batch" process, you
may do this maintenance as frequently as you like. For example, you may do
this each time you power on your LAN, nightly, weekly, monthly, yearly, etc.
Periodic maintenance is needed for the usage log since the data will
eventually become old. This makes the database larger and slower.
Therefore, old data should be purged (cleaned up) and the database compacted
to remove the purged rows on a periodic basis.
The license control database requires periodic maintenance when programs are
incorrectly shown as being in use. This can occur due to such things as
power outages or when someone powers their computer off while using a
program.
The recommendation is to run MAXLOG with the /P and /U switches frequently
on busy systems. Perferably nightly and when powering the LAN on/off. The
compact should be done somewhat less often, such as weekly or when powering
the LAN on. For home use, this is only needed on a monthly or yearly basis.
MAXLOG has three switches you can use to do this maintenance:
/P? This switch tells MAXimize to purge (or delete) usage log data older
than the number of days (?) specified from the usage log. The
default is to purge data older than 31 days. Thus, you can purge
usage log data greater than one year old by using switch /U365.
/C This switch tells MAXimize to compact (or physically remove) all
purged data from the usage log and the license control databases.
This switch should only be used when no one is currently using
MAXimize. This releases the space used by purged data.
/U? This switch will set programs that are currently in use for the
specified number of hours (?) to the used status. The default is to
set in use programs to the used status if they have been used more
than 9 hours. Thus, I could set all programs to the used status
before my computer (or the LAN server) is powered off, or when it is
powered on, by running MAXLOG /U0. I can also use the WAITTILL
program to run MAXLOG /U9 at 2:00 AM in the morning to set programs
98
started the previous day before 5:00 PM to the used status!
These switches can be used together or independently of one another. Since
the /C switch should be done only when no one is using MAXimize, and the
other switches do not have this restriction, you may not want to compact the
usage log every time the purge is done. To purge records older than one
month, set programs in use that have been used since 5:00 PM and compact the
usage log at 2 AM in the morning, you should run the following batch file:
@ECHO OFF
WAITTILL 02:00 Waiting until 2 AM to purge, reset and compact usage log.
IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO STOP
MAXLOG /P /U /C
:STOP
NOTE: If you are not running on a LAN, you will not want to wait until
2 AM to run MAXLOG or use the /U switch. In this case, simple
run MAXLOG /P /C
99
Appendix A: Hints
=================
This appendix is intended to provide hints on how to get the most from
MAXimize. Only after installing and using MAXimize, should you read these
hints. It is assumed that the reader has developed some knowledge of DOS and
has the DOS manual available as a reference.
Cut and Paste Between Selections
================================
The cut and paste capability of the editor is to a temporary clipboard in
memory. Thus, copy and paste features of the editor cannot be used directly
to copy text from one selection to another. However, you may highlight a
block of text and use the save feature (Ctrl+S) to save the block to a file
(for example "CLIPBORD"). Then update the text/selection to be copied to,
position to where the text is to be inserted and use the read feature
(Ctrl+R) to read the block back from the file ("CLIPBORD") into the
selection. You may use this technique to copy text from any multiple line
text area to another - such as menu text, help text or a selections
commands.
Invoke MAXimize without Directory Change
========================================
You may want to invoke MAXimize by entering MENU or Max from the DOS prompt
without having to change the current directory. To do this, add the
directory containing the MENU.BAT, MAX.EXE and MAXIMIZE.OVR files to your
PATH. This directory is usually the directory you installed MAXimize into.
Assuming you installed into the default directory of C:\MAX, you could
change your AUTOEXEC.BAT file to include the command PATH C:\MAX\. If you
already have a PATH command in your AUTOEXEC.BAT, then simply
add this directory to those already specified (the directories are separated
by semicolons (;)).
Another alternative is to copy these files to a directory that is already in
your path. However, the option file (MAXIMIZE.SET) still must be available.
For more information on this, please review the section of "file Placement"
in the Introduction.
Invoke MAXimize Automatically
=============================
You may want MAXimize invoked automatically each time you power on your
computer. To do this, edit your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. Then add a line to the
bottom of the file that changes (DOS CHDIR command) to the directory
MAXimize was installed in. This is not needed if this directory has already
been added to your PATH. After this, add a line to invoke MAXimize by
entering MENU or MAX. Then save the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
100
Removing ECHO OFF
=================
To keep "ECHO OFF" from appearing on your screen, upgrade to DOS version
3.30 or above. Then change the MENU.BAT file's "ECHO OFF" statement to
"@ECHO OFF". You can use this technique in your batch files to suppress the
ECHO OFF.
Renaming MENU.BAT file
======================
The MENU.BAT file can be renamed. This may become necessary if it conflicts
with another batch file or program. This ability is provided through the /M
switch in this file. This switch tells MAXimize the name of the menu batch
file being used. To rename this file, use the DOS REN command. Also, you
may invoke MAXimize by entering MAX at the DOS prompt.
Macros
======
Keyboard macros can be easily created by using the &KEY function in a hot
key. For example, update a hot key currently not being used. Choose a
format type of Command stream. Then code the &KEY function with the desired
keys to be entered (eq. &KEY[ABC] as the only command. Then whenever you
want to type those keys, simply press the hot key instead.
File Placement
==============
The placement of MAXimize's files is generally handled through the
directories specified in the options. However, during startup of MAX.EXE
and MAXSETUP.EXE, certain files must be located (including the options
themselves) before the directories in the options can be used. If you have
DOS version 3.00 or higher and installed these files in one directory, then
you do not have to continue reading this section since the files will be
located. Otherwise, at startup MAXimize searches for files
MAX.EXE/MENU.BAT, *.SET (eq. MAXIMIZE.SET) and MAXIMIZE.OVL in the following
directories:
1. MAXDIR environment variable. This allows you to specify a directory to
search.
2. The directory MAX.EXE is in (DOS version 3.00 or higher)
3. Current directory
4. DOS PATH.
5. C:\MAX
NOTE:Options files are always saved in the directory the original option
file was read from.
101
Maximizing Performance
======================
While MAXimize's performance is very good, there are several things you can
do to get maximum performance. One of the easiest is to specify BUFFERS=20
in the CONFIG.SYS file. This change will benefit many of the programs you
run. When invoking MAXimize, use the MAX.EXE program instead of the MENU.BAT
file. The program should be slightly faster.
When creating selections, turn the Shell toggle on where possible. If there
is insufficient memory, DOS will display message "Program too big to fit in
memory". In this case, toggle the shell off.
Also, keep the commands short. If they become too long, try saving (use
Ctrl+S) these commands to a batch file and then execute the batch file.
This is particularly important for frequently used selections (it slows down
selection invocation).
You may be able to greatly increases the speed of MAXimize if you have a
mouse attached to your computer. The speed increase depends on your mouse,
but generally is about 1 second per selection invocation and can be as high
as 2 seconds! The performance enhancement can only be gained if your mouse
software driver is compatible with Microsoft Mouse driver version 6.0 or
higher. To determine if your mouse driver software is at this level, run
FIXMOUSE.COM from the DOS prompt. This program is distributed with
MAXimize. It will initialize your mouse and tell you if MAXimize will
perform faster. If the FIXMOUSE message doesn't indicate "(FAST)", you
should get the latest mouse software driver from your local computer store
(your mouse hardware doesn't need to be changed). Another possibility is to
turn the mouse off in the miscellaneous options. If nothing else, turning
off the mouse for a while will give you an idea if it is slowing MAXimize
down.
Finally, if you have a RAM drive (virtual disk), consider:
> Copying the COMMAND.COM file from the root directory of your hard drive
to the root directory of the RAM drive. Turn on the read-only attribute
so it will not be deleted accidentally. Then set COMSPEC to the new
location of COMMAND.COM file. This can be done in your AUTOEXEC.BAT
file. For instance, if your RAM drive is D the batch file could do the
following after creating the RAM drive:
COPY C:\COMMAND.COM D:\*.*
ATTRIB +R D:\COMMAND.COM
SET COMSPEC=D:\COMMAND.COM
This will speed up all programs that "shell" since the COMMAND.COM file
can be loaded quicker from the RAM drive then the hard disk.
> In the options, change the Batch execution file directory to be on the
RAM drive. Since the RAM drive is quicker than a hard disk, this will
speed up the execution of the commands for a selection.
102
Appendix B: Trouble Shooting and Technical Support
==================================================
Max Software will provide support for MAXimize for at least 90 days after
the registration date. This includes answering questions and fixing serious
defects. Max Software may choose to refund the purchase price during this
90 day period rather than fix a problem when the problem is due to a
specific hardware or software environment. Beyond this 90 day period,
support for this version of MAXimize is not guaranteed when a newer version
is available or past one year from the registration date. Thus, after 90
days, Max Software MAY request that you purchase a newer version (when
available) to determine if the problem is fixed by it.
MAXimize is designed to be easy to install and use. However, there is a
rare chance that you might encounter a problem that you cannot resolve
yourself. Below is a list of commonly asked questions and answers. If,
after reading this section and the hints in appendix A, you still have a
problem finding an answer, please follow the procedure for contacting
technical support described at the end of this appendix.
Commonly Asked Questions and Answers:
1. A selection's commands are failing. How can I tell what is going wrong?
Answer: The easiest way to find out why batch commands are failing is to
see them as they execute. That is what the DOS ECHO command will do.
Simply add a line before the first batch command (position cursor on top
line and hit Ctrl+N) containing "ECHO ON". Then each command in the
batch file will be echoed to the screen as it is executed by DOS. If
they disappear off the top of the screen to quickly, add the PAUSE
command at the end of the batch commands (and perhaps within them). The
PAUSE command will temporarily halt the execution of the batch commands
until you strike a key.
2. Why does a selection keep quitting MAXimize (causes the DOS prompt to be
displayed)?
Answer: A selection can request that MAXimize quit by turning on the quit
toggle. A selection can accidentally cause MAXimize to loose control
(quit) by executing a batch file within the batch commands and not
specifying an extension of BAT or preceding it with a tilde (~) sign. If
all else fails, use the "ECHO ON" command to find the last command
executed. Then make sure it is not a batch file! If it is, use a BAT
extension or precede it with the tilde (~) sign.
3. Why won't a selection permanently update an environment variable
Answer: A selection can update an environment variable only if the shell
toggle is off and the environment variable is set by a command within the
batch commands. In all other cases, the environment variable will not be
permanent, since the setting of the variable was done from a "shelled to"
batch file.
4. How can a memory resident program be invoked from a selection's batch
commands?
103
Answer: This should only be done with the shell toggle off. Also, the
program must be executed directly from (specified) within the batch
commands.
5. After chosing a selection and running a program, the mouse is left in an
improper state. For example, the mouse will either not display, not move
on the screen or misbehaves in some other way.
Answer:
This generally occurs when a program uses the mouse COM port
improperly. For example, this would happen if your communications
program used the mouse COM port instead of the modem port. If this
occurs, you should correct the offending program if at all possible
(i.e. change your communications program to use the correct COM port).
If this fails, create a batch file that calls the offending program and
then FIXMOUSE.COM. FIXMOUSE will reset the mouse, leaving it in the
proper state for MAXimize.
How to Obtain Technical Support
-------------------------------
As a registered MAXimize customer, you have access to help with any problems
you cannot solve yourself. To register for this support, be sure to fill
out and mail the registration card that is included with your MAXimize
package.
Before contacting technical support, have your MAXimize manual and diskettes
available and the following information:
1. The make and model of your computer.
2. The version of MS-DOS that you are using.
3. The version of MAXimize you are using.
4. If a selection is causing the problem, please include information about
the selection.
5. Be ready to provide your name, address, phone number and company name (if
applicable).
Problems may be reported by one of the following methods:
---------------------------------------------------------
1. Send a letter to:
Max Software
9121 141st West
Taylor Ridge, IL 61284
2. Send a message to CompuServe user ID 71170,740
3. Call the MAXimize hot line at 309-798-2533
Be sure to include all of the information requested above.
104
Appendix C: Networks and Shared PCs
===================================
MAXimize supports Local Area Networks (LANs) and will also allow several
people to share a single PC. In both cases, users may share menus and/or
have their own individual menus. Also, each user may have their own
options, such as colors. Thus, each user may have different setups (colors,
directories, passwords, main menus, menus, etc), while running off one copy
of the MAXimize files.
When you invoke MAXimize, you may provide a user identification. This user
identification indicates who is using MAXimize and thus, which setup to use.
If the user identification is not specified, then the LAN version will
prompt for it and the non-LAN version will use "MAXIMIZE" (which is the
base). This user identification must be a valid DOS file name with no
extension. The user ID may be greater than 7 characters, but the first 7
characters must be unique. You may specify your user identification with
the /U switch or the "ID" environment variable (this may be changed during
the installation of the LAN version of MAXimize). If both are specified,
the /U switch takes precedence. To force MAXimize to prompt for the user
identification, specify a user identification of question mark (/U?).
To change the user identification while in MAXimize, press Alt+O N and then
the new user ID (see the "New User ID" section of Chapter 4.. This is
particularly useful when working with a PC shared by more than one person.
As each user modifies the options, it is saved to a file with their user
identification as the file name and an extension of SET. This file is saved
in the directory the current setup file was originally read from.
For each computer on the LAN using MAXimize or a shared PC, you MAY want to
change the following:
1. Add SET SPACE=12345678 to their AUTOEXEC.BAT file. This reserves
space in their environment pool. This space may be needed when
changing the user ID with the /U switch or when they press Alt+O N.
If there is not enough space in the environment pool, error number
902 will occur.
2. Add the MAXimize installation directory to the PATH in their
AUTOEXEC.BAT file. This will allow the users to invoke MAXimize
without switching to its drive/directory.
3. Set the ID environment variable either by modifying their
AUTOEXEC.BAT file or their network login script. For example, use
the DOS SET command in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file to set the ID
environment variable (ie. SET ID=janet).
4. Add a line at the end of the AUTOEXEC.BAT file to invoke MAXimize, if
the user wants MAXimize to be invoked when they power on their PCs.
For the shared PC support, without the LAN version, you may want to force
MAXimize to prompt for a user identification (instead of using "MAXIMIZE").
This can easily be done by creating a batch file as follows:
105
ECHO OFF
MAX /U? %1 %2 %3 %4 %5 %6 %7 %8 %9
To invoke MAXimize run the above batch file. You will then be prompted for
your user identification. Another twist on this is to create a batch file
for each user to invoke MAXimize. Each batch file would be the same as
that listed above, except the question mark should be replaced with a user
identification.
It is a good idea to include the user identification in the main menu title.
This can be done using the &ID& special variable. For example, the title
could be "Main menu for user &ID&". This will allow users to determine that
the desired identification is being used. Also, selections may use this
special variable. In this way the selection could act differently for each
user. For example, each user may have a separate directory that the
selection switches to. If this is the case, the selection's description
should have the user identification in it (ex. "Word processing for &ID&").
This will help identify which selections are dependent on the user's
identification being correct.
If some users have their own menus (besides a shared set), they can modify
the Menus and Hot keys path of the options. They should specify their
directory and then the shared directory separated by a semi-colon. To do
this, create a directory to contain the shared menus (eq. C:\MAX\SHARED) and
a directory for each user (eq. C:\MAX\userid - fill in their user ID) that
wants their own menus. Then each user who only wants the shared menus will
specify a "Menus & Hot keys path" directory of the shared directory
(C:\MAX\SHARED). Those users who want their own menus in addition to the
shared menus would specify both (C:\MAX\userid;C:\MAX\SHARED). Finally,
users who want only their menus would specify their directory
(C:\MAX\userid). Please review the "Menus & Hot keys path" item in the
"Directories" section of chapter 4 for more information.
NOTES: The LAN version of MAXimize is required if you are running MAXimize
on a LAN with multiple users. Therefore, be sure to purchase a LAN
license if you are going to use MAXimize on a LAN!
Using this feature MAY require DOS 3.10 or higher (see error message
number 902).
106
Appendix D: Messages
====================
The message window reports any informational, warning or error messages.
The majority of messages are warnings. Besides the message, the window
contains the message number in the lower right hand corner. All messages
are documented by this message number below. After reading the message, you
must hit the space bar to continue. MAXimize will then take an appropriate
action as documented. You may then take corrective action, if any, for the
message.
The following is a list of message numbers on the left and the text of the
message on the right. Each message will have a description of the problem,
the action MAXimize will take and any corrective action you might want to
take.
200 Menu [menu] not in [path]
where [menu] will be replaced with a menu file name and [path] will be
replaced with a directory name(s).
Description: The menu shown cannot be found in the user menus and hot
keys path (also shown).
Action: The menu will be displayed using a title of the menu name
with no selections.
Correction: If the menu should exist, press Esc to return to prior menu.
Then locate the menu file on your hard disk and copy it to
the directory shown. If the menu is new, add selections.
201 Maximum number of menus reached, ignoring [menu]
where [menu] will be replaced with the file name of the sub-menu
requested.
Description: A selection chosen has specified a sub-menu however, the
maximum number of nested menus has been reached.
Action: MAXimize will ignore the sub-menu and display the current
menu.
Correction: Transfer the selection that displays the sub-menu to a
higher level menu.
202 Menu [menu] file format error
where [menu] will be replaced with the file name of the menu in error.
Description: The menu file's format is incorrect.
Action: MAXimize will ignore the menu and display the current/main
menu.
Correction: If the menu is a version 1 menu, then it should be converted
to version 2 format. Run MAXCONVT.EXE specifying this file
as the only parameter.
107
203 Menu [menu] does not match encryption key
where [menu] will be replaced with the file name of the menu in error.
Description: The menu file's encryption key doesn't match the encryption
key for this MAXimize system.
Action: MAXimize will ignore the menu and display the current/main
menu.
Correction: If you are using a menu from another MAXimize system, you
must specify their encryption key. Also, you may have
changed the encryption key in your options without first
removing password protection from all menus and selections.
301 Selection has no action to perform
Description: A selection or hot key was chosen for which no action (sub-
menu or commands) has been defined.
Action: MAXimize will ignore the request.
Correction: Either the wrong hot key was pressed or it must be updated
to have an action.
302 All copies of [application] are in use
Description: All licensed copies of the desired application are in use.
Action: MAXimize will ignore the request.
Correction: Either wait till a copy is no longer in use or notify your
LAN administrator.
303 Selection has an invalid [function] parameter: [parameter]
where [function] is the failing function and [parameter] is the bad
parameter
Description: The function failed due to the specification of an invalid
parameter.
Action: The execution of the selection is stopped.
Correction: Correct the bad function parameter.
305 Program [TrackBy] has been disabled by the administrator
where [TrackBy] is the application that has been disabled
Description: The administrator has disabled the application, making it
unavailable for use at this time. Generally, this is done
to allow the administrator to apply maintenance to the
application.
Action: The execution of the selection is stopped.
Correction: Wait till the administrator has enabled the application.
400 Total number or length of commands is too large
Description: The maximum length of the commands specified in a selection
or the number of commands is too large.
Action: Selection cannot be saved.
Correction: Create a batch file with the commands needed and then
execute the batch file.
108
401 No room in menu for selection(s). Change menu ID type to allow more.
Description: You have attempted to insert a selection(s) into a menu that
would exceed the maximum number of selections allowed.
Action: Operation is not allowed.
Correction: The menu has the alpha-numeric option ID. Its maximum
number of selections can be increased from 36 to 99 by
changing the option ID to numeric. Otherwise, split this
menu into smaller menus.
402 No room in menu for selection(s)
Description: You have attempted to insert a selection(s) into a menu that
would exceed the maximum number or selections allowed.
Action: Operation is not allowed.
Correction: Split this menu into smaller menus.
403 Total length of menu's descriptions and messages is too large
Description: The total length of this menu's description and help message
fields is too large.
Action: Operation is not allowed.
Correction: Shorten the description and or help messages for some of the
selections on this menu.
404 Sub-menu is a variable ([menu]) - cannot process selection
where [menu] is the sub-menu name.
Description: The copy/transfer/find function cannot process through a
selection that contains a variable in the sub-menu name.
Action: The sub-menu is not displayed.
Correction: Use/define another route to get to the desired sub-menu.
405 Cannot copy or transfer an empty Hot Key
Description: The copy/transfer/find function cannot be used on a Hot Key
that has not been defined.
Action: The copy or transfer operation is aborted.
Correction: Do not copy or transfer an empty Hot Key.
406 Cannot insert into hot keys
Description: The copy/transfer operation was used to copy more than one
selection to the hot keys menu.
Action: Operation is not allowed.
Correction: Copy/transfer selections to the hot keys one at a time.
601 File MAXLOG.DBF cannot be found in current directory or in the
directory defined in the MAXDIR enviroment variable.
Description: The MAXLOG.DBF database file could not be located in the
current directory or through the MAXDIR environment
variable.
Action: MAXLOG terminates.
Correction: Start MAXLOG from the directory containing MAXLOG.DBF or set
the MAXDIR environment variable to this directory.
109
602 Unable to allocate unique index name.
Description: MAXLOG was unable to allocate a unique index name. Whenever
MAXLOG creates an index, it is only for the duration of that
it is needed and should be removed upon exit from MAXLOG.
Action: MAXLOG terminates.
Correction: Make sure there are no *.NTX files in the directory
containing the MAXLOG.DBF file. Then try running MAXLOG
again.
603 Invalid parm data, program ending
Description: MAXLOG was started with invalid parameter data - switches.
Action: MAXLOG terminates after displaying the valid syntax.
Correction: Correct the invalid parameters.
604 [DBF] locked by another user. Skipping [function].
where [DBF] is the database that is locked and [function] is the
function that will be skipped due to the lock failure.
Description: MAXLOG has been locked out of the specified database because
another person/process is making changes.
Action: MAXLOG skips the specified function.
Correction: Determine what has the lock and remove the lock. Then run
MAXLOG again.
800 [DOS error (code)]. Unable to save menu or hot keys
where [DOS error (code)] indicates the type of DOS error that occurred
Description: A DOS error occurred while MAXimize tried to save a menu or
the hot keys.
Action: Menu or hot keys is not saved - changes are lost.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
801 [DOS error (code)]. Unable to read help file (MAXIMIZE.HLP)
where [DOS error (code)] indicates the type of DOS error that
occurred.
Description: A DOS error occurred while MAXimize tried to read its help
file.
Action: MAXimize will not be able to provide help.
Correction: Ensure that the MAXIMIZE.HLP file is in the Setup/Help
directory (normally this is the directory MAXimize was
installed in). Reinstall MAXimize to get its help file.
802 [DOS error (code)]. Unable to read/save file [file]
where [DOS error (code)] indicates the type of DOS error that occurred
and [file] is the file that the error occurred on.
Description: A DOS error occurred in MAXimize's editor attempting to save
or read text to/from a file.
Action: The read/save of text is aborted.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
110
803 [DOS error (code)]. Unable to read options file - reset failed
where [DOS error (code)] indicates the type of DOS error that
occurred.
Description: A DOS error occurred when MAXimize tried to read the options
file to reset the options back to the last permanently save
version.
Action: Reset of options fails.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
804 [DOS error (code)]. Unable to restart
where [DOS error (code)] indicates the type of DOS error that occurred
Description: A DOS error occurred while MAXimize tried to restart after a
selection had finished.
Action: MAXimize displays the main menu due to restart failure.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
805 [DOS error (code)]. Unable to create batch commands file
where [DOS error (code)] indicates the type of DOS error that
occurred.
Description: A DOS error occurred while MAXimize tried to create the
batch file used to run the selection's commands.
Action: MAXimize will quit processing.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
806 [DOS error (code)]. Options could not be saved.
where [DOS error (code)] indicates the type of DOS error that
occurred.
Description: A DOS error occurred while MAXimize was saving the options.
Action: The options are not saved.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
807 [DOS error (code)]. Unable to read menu [menu]
where [DOS error (code)] indicates the type of DOS error that occurred
and [menu] is the file name of a menu.
Description: A DOS error occurred when MAXimize tried to read the menu
file.
Action: Current/main menu is displayed.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
808 [DOS error (code)]. [menu] could not be locked
where [DOS error (code)indicates the type of DOS error that occurred
and [menu] is the file name that could not be locked.
Description: A DOS error occurred when MAXimize tried to lock a menu
before updating the menu or its selections. This is for the
LAN version of MAXimize only.
Action: The operation is not allowed.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
809 [DOS error (code)]. Unable to log to usage log database
where [DOS error (code)indicates the type of DOS error that occurred.
Description: A DOS error occurred when MAXimize tried to update the usage
log database (MAXLOG.DBF).
Action: The operation is not allowed.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
111
810 [DOS error (code)]. Unable to update license control database
where [DOS error (code)indicates the type of DOS error that occurred.
Description: A DOS error occurred when MAXimize tried to update the
license control database (MAXCHK.DBF).
Action: The operation is not allowed.
Correction: Fix the error if possible, else report it.
901 Releases do not match between MAXimize EXE files.
Description: The releases of the MAXimize EXE programs are different.
Action: The operation fails.
Correction: Reinstall MAXimize to ensure the programs are at the same
release.
902 Unable to set user identification in [which] environment - [reason]
where [which] is either master or current [reason] is "not enough
room" or a return code.
Description: The user identification variable could not be set in the DOS
environment.
Action: Previous user identification will be used. MAXimize will
quit if it was called from the MENU.BAT batch file and there
is no previous user identification.
Correction: If the reason code is "not enough room", add "SET
SPACE=12345678" to your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. This reserves
space in your environment pool for this purpose. If the
reason code is anything else, check your DOS version (use
the DOS VER command). If your DOS version is less than
3.10, then upgrade to a newer DOS version. Otherwise, report
the problem.
903 Unable to locate options files - will use defaults
Description: MAXimize was unable to locate your options file (the file
containing your settings for directories, colors, passwords,
etc.). This file is the user's identification with an
extension of SET.
Action: The default settings are used.
Correction: MAXimize will search the default directory as specified by
the /D switch, the directory specified by the MAXDIR
environment variable, the directory MAXimize was invoked
from, the current directory, the directories in the DOS PATH
and finally C:\MAX\.
904 Unable to allocate memory required for copy/transfer
Description: MAXimize must allocate additional memory to do the copy or
transfer functions. However, this failed.
Action: The copy/transfer fails.
Correction: Make sure you have enough memory on your machine to run
MAXimize. Also, if you were processing multiple selections,
try doing one at a time.
112
905 Options directories are invalid, changed to initial values
Description: One or more of the directories specified in the options does
not exist.
Action: These directories will be reset to their initial setting.
This will either be the directory MAXimize was invoked from
or none at all, depending on the directory that is bad.
Correction: Review all directories specified in the options to ensure
they are correct.
906 Mouse not installed - cannot be used
Description: The mouse driver software is not installed.
Action: The mouse cannot be used by MAXimize.
Correction: Review your mouse manual and install it.
907 Not enough memory available for [filespec]
where [filespec] is a program MAXimize was trying to run.
Description: MAXimize is unable to run the specified program due to a
lack of memory on your computer.
Action: The operation fails.
Correction: Try to free memory by removing TSR programs or don't turn
the shell toggle on for selections.
908 Unable to load ([code]) [filespec]
where [code] is an internal code and [filespec] is the file name of
the program MAXimize was trying to run.
Description: MAXimize was unable to load the program.
Action: The operation fails.
Correction: If the filespec is your comspec, then correct the comspec
specification in your environment variables to point to your
command processor (COMMAND.COM). Otherwise, make sure that
the program specified as filespec is there.
909 File line too large, read terminated
Description: MAXimize could not read a text file in since the file had a
line length that was too long.
Action: The text is not read in by the editor.
Correction: Check the length of the files record and shorten those that
are too long.
910 [menu] currently in use - lock could not be obtained ([code])
where [menu] is the file name for the menu being locked and [code] is
an internal code indicating the type of error.
Description: MAXimize could not lock a menu. This menu was being used or
updated by another user. This error only occurs for the LAN
version of MAXimize.
Action: For update operations, you will be allowed to update the
selection. However, if you change a selection and then
accept those changes, the lock must then be obtained. This
allows you to view a selection even though it could not be
locked. For all other operations, the operation fails.
Correction: Make sure no one else is using or updating the menu.
113
911 Access error ([code]). User already in MAXimize.
where [code] is an internal code indicating the type of error.
Description: MAXimize could not open the batch file used to execute a
selection's commands because it is already in use. There is
one allocated for each user and session combination.
Action: MAXimize will request the user identification to be used.
Correction: Make sure no one else is using this user identification and
session.
950 Selection was built by MAXimize Gold - unable to update
Description: MAXimize could update this selection because it was built by
the Gold edition using it's advance features.
Action: MAXimize will not update the selection as requested.
Correction: Selection can only be updated by the MAXimize Gold edition.
998 MAXSETUP failed: [message]
where [message] indicates which severe error occurred.
Description: A severe error, indicated by the message, occurred.
MAXimize could not recover from it.
Action: The MAXSETUP program terminates.
Correction: Report this failure.
114
Index
=====
Help
Arrow icons, 11, 20 For a selection, 44
ASK.COM, 77 For MAXimize, 15
AUTOEXEC.BAT, 99, 101 Keys, 16
Message, 10, 44
Batch files, 34, 50 Related topics, 16
BEEP.COM, 79 Text, 44
Border, 10 Hot Keys, 21, 22, 25, 41, 43, 81
Buttons, 13
ID Letter, 29
Colors, 65 ID letter, 31, 33
Commands, 32, 50, 101 Input
Cut and Paste Entry mode, 14
Between selections, 99 Prompt window, 18
Installation, 5
Description, 28, 32 Invoking MAXimize, 9, 99, 100
Descripton, 30
Dialog Boxes, 12 Keys
Buttons, 13 Block operations, 26
Fields, 13 Edit, 14
Lists, 14 Help, 16
Toggles, 14 Shift-Tab, 12, 13
Directories, 68 Tab, 12
Working, 28
DOS LAN
Go To, 24 User ID, 22
License Control, 94
ECHO OFF Add, 95
Removing, 100 Delete, 96
Edit Disable, 96
Block operations, 26 Display Users, 96
Keys, 14 Edit, 95
Encryption key, 70 Maintenance, 97
Environment variable Reports, 97
ID, 22 Set Used, 96
ERRORLEVEL, 77 Limiting License Usage, 93
Log Violation, 70
Files
Installed, 5 Macros, 100
Placement, 100 Main menu, 9
Format Main window, 10
Selections, 27 Marking selections, 26
Functions, 55 MAX.EXE, 9
Abort, 62 MAXCONVT.EXE, 83, 106
Dir, 58 MAXSETUP.EXE, 74
Drive, 58 Memory resident programs, 102
File, 59, 60 Menu
GoTo, 62 {Main}, 47
If, 61 {Prior}, 47
Key, 63 Add a sub-menu, 38
Menu, 56 Anatomy, 9
Prompt, 55 Copy, 49
Delete a sub-menu, 43
115
Existing menus, 31 PC Secure, 86
ID Type, 36 Performance, 101
Main, 9 Problems
Navigation, 17 Reporting, 103
Password, 36, 86 Programs, 28
Samples, 6 Prompt, 29, 33, 47
Text, 37
Title, 10, 36 Quick start, 6
Transfer, 49 Quitting MAXimize, 19, 33, 47, 102
Updating characteristics, 36
Wild cards, 45 Sample menus, 6
Menu Bar, 11 Screen
MENU.BAT, 9 Protection, 17
Renaming, 100 Save, 17
Messages, 106 Scroll bar, 10, 20
Monitor, 87 Scroll box, 11, 20
Mouse Searching for
Can be used to, 19 Program or directory, 35
Click, 19 Security, 85
Double-Click, 19 Selection
Drag, 19 Add, 38
Point, 19 Bar, 10
Pointer, 19 Choosing, 16
Release, 19 Commands, 32, 101
Using a, 19 Copy, 42
Delete, 43
Networks, 104 Description, 10, 28, 30, 32
NOBREAK, 85, 87 Directory, 28
Formats, 27
Options Help, 44
Changing the, 65 ID letter, 29, 31, 33
Colors, 65 IDs, 10
Directories, 68 Marking, 26
Miscellaneous, 71 Moving to new, 16
Passwords, 69 Parameters, 28, 32, 47
Project, 76 Password, 29, 31, 33
Reset, 74 password, 86
User ID, 75 Pause, 29
Program, 28
Parameters, 28, 32, 47 Prompt, 29, 33, 47
Password Quit, 33
Change forgotten, 85 Shell, 29, 33, 48, 53
Creator, 85 Sub-menu, 30, 33, 46, 47
Encryption Key, 87 Transfer, 42
Encryption key, 70 Update, 41
Entry, 85 Selection format
Log Violation, 70 Command stream, 31
Menu, 36 Display menu, 30
menu, 86 Run program, 28
Options, 69 Switching, 34
Quitting, 69, 85 Shared PCs, 104
Security, 85 Shell, 29, 33, 48, 53
Selection, 29, 31, 33, 86 Shift-Tab, 12, 13
Setup, 69, 86 Status line, 10
Pause, 29 Mouse, 20
116
Sub-Menu, 30
Sub-menu, 33
Switches
/A, 22
/I, 22, 81
/K, 22, 81
/M, 22, 100
/Q, 22
/U, 22
System administrator, 104
System requirements, 4
Tab, 12
Shift-Tab, 12, 13
Title, 10
Toggles, 14
Update mode, 74
Usage log, 87
Clear Query, 90
Maintenance, 97
Query, 89
Reports, 92
Sequence, 91
Set Used, 91
User ID
Specifying, 22
Variables, 51
Environment, 53, 102
Global, 54
How used, 54
Input, 52
Setting, 54
Special, 51
VIEW.EXE, 80
Wall Paper, 10
Window
Border, 10
Cascade, 17
Main, 10
ORDER.DOC
+================ Invoice for MAXimize Version 3.1 Gold Edition ==============+
| |
| Contact name:______________________________________________________________ |
| |
| Company: ________________________________(only if purchased by company) |
| |
| Address: ______________________________________________________________ |
| |
| ______________________________________________________________ |
| |
| ______________________________________________________________ |
| |
| Phone: (______)______-_________ Computer: __________________________ |
|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 1) CHECK PRICE: __ $59 = One user. -------------------------------> $_____ |
| __ $69 = One user with usage log reporting. ----| |
| __ $295 = Up to 10 users. -----------------------| |
| __ $345 = Up to 10 users with usage log report. -| |
| __ $495 = Up to 10 users on a LAN with usage ----| |
| log reporting and license control. |
| |
| NOTE: a) PRICES MAY CHANGE WITH NEWER VERSIONS OF MAXimize! |
| b) Call for larger quantity discounts or Site licenses. |
| |
| 2) SHIPPING AND HANDLING: $5 if YOU live in U.S., else $10 -----> + $_____ |
| |
| 3) SUB-TOTAL (add lines 1 and 2) -------------------------------> = $_____ |
| |
| 4) Enter DISCOUNT from below (if you include documentation) ----> - $_____ |
| |
| 5) TOTAL PRICE TO BE PAID (subtract line 4 from 3) -------------> = $_____ |
| ===== |
| 6) CHECK METHOD OF PAYMENT: |
| |
| __ Check - Make check payable to "Max Software" in UNITED STATES DOLLARS.|
| Check MUST be drawn on a bank operating in the UNITED STATES. |
| |
| __ Visa __ Mastercard --> Credit card number:___________________________ |
| | |
| --> Expires:___/___ Signature:____________________ |
| |
| 7) DISK SIZE: _____ 3.5" (720K) -or- _____ 5.25" (360K) |
| |
| 8) Will this be ran on a Local Area Network (LAN)? (default=NO): _____ |
|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| CHECK ONLY ONE DISCOUNT BELOW, IF YOU CAN SUPPLY THE REQUESTED DOCUMENT. |
| |
| __ Save $10 when you include all pages of a review of MAXimize published |
| in the last 90 days. The review must include the author's name, |
| publication name and date of publication. |
| |
| __ Save $10 when you include proof of purchase of a menu system. This |
| can be the manual cover or title page indicating the menu system |
| name, a receipt or the installation diskette (with proper label). |
+=============================================================================+
Send invoice (and check) to: -OR- Call in your credit card order.
Max Software -------------------------------
9121 141st West Telephone number: 309-798-2533
Taylor Ridge, IL 61284 Have the above information ready.
Please include any comments you might have on the reverse side - Thanks!
README.TXT
MAXimize Gold Edition, Version 3.1
==================================
From
MAX SOFTWARE
============
9121 141st West
Taylor Ridge, IL 61284
Phone number: 309-798-2533
CompuServe user ID: 71170,740
Copyright (C) 1988-1990 by Don Cappaert.
All rights reserved.
YOU CAN GET A $10 DISCOUNT ON MAXIMIZE GOLD IF YOU SEND IN A PUBLISHED
REVIEW OF MAXIMIZE OR IF YOU HAVE PROOF OF PURCHASE OF A MENU SYSTEM
YOUR SWITCHING FROM. SEE ORDER.DOC FILE FOR DISCOUNTS AND PRICING
INFORMATION.
This is the Gold edition of MAXimize. The following are related
files:
MAXUTL31.ZIP --> The optional utilities for usage log
reporting, license control and AutoMenu (MDF)
conversions (MAXLOG.EXE & MAXCONVT.EXE)
MAXBAS31.ZIP --> The Basic edition of MAXimize
If you are unable to locate either of these files, you may request
them by sending $5 to the address above. Be sure to include the
version number of MAXimize you are using and your address.
Table of Contents:
==================
Introduction.............................................2
Other Documentation Files................................2
Installing MAXimize......................................2
Starting MAXimize........................................2
Getting Started Quickly..................................2
Ordering MAXimize........................................3
Getting Help.............................................4
Common Problems..........................................4
2
Introduction:
=============
This document contains information more current than the manual. It
explains what documentation files are available, has information to
get you started quickly and includes a history of changes made to
MAXimize.
For the shareware version of MAXimize, a shareware panel will appear
when MAXimize is started. This panel should appear once a day. Also,
MAXIMIZE.INI is a special initialization file that must not be
deleted!
Other Documentation Files:
==========================
FEATURES.DOC - lists the major features of MAXimize Gold & Basic.
WHATSNEW.DOC - lists the new features of version 3.0
ORDER.DOC - order form and instructions for ordering MAXimize.
VENDOR.DOC - vendor distribution form.
MANUAL.DOC - copy of manual (licensed copies get a nicely printed
and bound manual).
Installing MAXimize:
====================
To install MAXimize, simply run the INSTALL.EXE program provided.
This program should be located in the directory you unpacked the files
into.
Starting MAXimize:
==================
After installing MAXimize, you can start it by either entering MENU or
MAX at the DOS prompt from the MAXimize directory. For example:
C:
CD \MAX
MAX
Getting Started Quickly:
========================
If you want to get started using MAXimize quickly and know a little
about DOS, then keep the following in mind:
1) After starting MAXimize, sample menus will be displayed. The
selections on these menus will either:
A) Display another menu (These selections have "menu" added to the
end of their descriptions as in "Games menu").
3
B) "ECHO" a statement to the screen. These selections should be
changed to run your program. Simply change the "ECHO" to your
program name and either clear or change the "Parameters."
C) Perform some work. This is done in the menus that start with
"SAMP".
An "ECHO" is usually done, such as with the "Word Processor"
selection. These menus are provided to give you one possible way
to organize your applications. Feel free to update these menus to
fit your needs.
NOTE: Any menu starting with SAMP will be replaced when you
upgrade. The "SAMP" menus are displayed by selecting
"Samples menu" from the main menu. Also, the sample menus
assume that the directory containing DOS is in your PATH.
2) The menu bar is displayed in the top line of the screen. It is
activated by the slash (/), Alt or F10 keys. From the menu bar,
you may choose file to display another menu or exit from MAXimize.
The edit selection in the menu bar has selections to update the
menu displayed or the selections within the menu. The options
selection allows you to change MAXimize's options (such as the
colors). And the help selection in the menu bar allows you to get
help for a selection, for MAXimize or about MAXimize (its edition
and version).
3) The status line is the bottom line of the screen. It contains a
list of keys most often needed. These keys will change as you do
different tasks (such as add, update, delete, etc.). In general,
you should look at the status line if you're not sure which key to
press.
4) If you need help at any time, simply press F2. MAXimize contains
extensive help that is context sensitive (that is, MAXimize
displays help that pertains to the operation you're currently
doing). If you are not sure how to use the help facility, simply
press F1 for an explanation.
5) To modify a selection, simply highlight it by using the arrow keys
or mark it by pressing the space bar (you may mark several
selections in ONE menu). Then press "Alt+E" to Edit. You may
then add, update, delete, copy or transfer the selection(s).
6) To modify the menu, simply display it and press "Alt+E U M".
7) To change options (colors, directories, etc.), simply press
"ALT+O".
Ordering MAXimize:
==================
When you order MAXimize, you will receive a beautiful manual, a
reference card and the latest version of MAXimize on a diskette. Max
Software will provide support for any problems or questions you might
have for at least 90 days after you order MAXimize. You will also be
notified when there are updates to or newer versions of MAXimize.
4
To order MAXimize (or additional copies of MAXimize), simply print off
the order form. The order form can be printed by entering "PRINT
ORDER.DOC" at the DOS prompt from the MAXimize installation directory.
Then simply follow the instructions on the order form. If you will be
using MAXimize on a LAN, be sure to call for a LAN license (the
software is different for LANs).
Getting Help:
=============
To get help, you may:
1) Send a letter to: Max Software
9121 141st West
Taylor Ridge, IL 61284
2) Send a message to CompuServe user ID 71170,740
3) Call the MAXimize phone line at 309-798-2533
Be sure to include your name, address, phone number and company name
(if applicable). The text of the letter should adequately describe
the problem you are having. If a selection is causing the problem,
please include information about the selection.
Common Problems:
================
1) If after your selection runs you are:
A) at the DOS prompt
B) positioned in the main menu instead of the sub-menu.
Then you probably are running a batch file from a selection (the
"Commands" section) without including the tilde symbol (~) prefix.
Add an "ECHO ON" statement before any commands - this will show
each command as it is executing. The last one executed is the
batch file causing the problem. To fix the problem, simply add
the tilde symbol immediately before the batch file being ran.
2) If you lose position on the sub-menu (main menu is displayed)
after the selection runs, then the commands invoked through the
selection has probably invoked MAXimize again. This may have been
done because of the first problem above (going back to the DOS
prompt after running a selection). Remove the line that invokes
MAXimize again from the commands.
VENDOR.DOC
+====================== MAXimize Vendor Distribution Form ====================+
| |
| Name: Last: _______________________ First: ______________ Middle: __ |
| |
| Company: ______________________________________________________________ |
| |
| Address: ______________________________________________________________ |
| |
| ______________________________________________________________ |
| |
| ______________________________________________________________ |
| |
| Phone: (______)______-_________ Edition(s): __ Gold __ Basic |
+=============================================================================+
| MAXimize Distribution Licensing Agreement |
| |
| Anyone wishing to charge people a fee for giving them a shareware copy of |
| MAXimize must have the written authorization of the author, without which, |
| the distributor is guilty of copyright violation. To receive such auth- |
| orization, send this completed application, along with a copy of your |
| software library's order form to: |
| |
| Max Software |
| 9121 141st West |
| Taylor Ridge, IL 61284 |
| |
| For distributors already recognized by the association of Shareware |
| Professionals, this application is not necessary. However, it is |
| still recommended so that I can distribute newer versions to you. |
+=============================================================================+
| Terms of Distribution of MAXimize: |
| |
| 1. The fee charged may not exceed $10, including postage, mailer and any |
| other charges. |
| 2. Your library's catalog or listing must state that this program is not |
| free, but is copyrighted software that is provided to allow the user |
| to evaluate it before paying. |
| 3. The offering and sale of MAXimize will be stopped at any time the |
| author requests. |
| 4. Copies must be made from the copy of MAXimize sent to you with this |
| agreement. This is required for control purposes. |
| 5. Problems or complaints about the program will be reported to the author |
| for investigation. In return for a license to charge a fee for the |
| distribution of the program MAXimize, I agree to comply with the above |
| terms of distribution. |
| |
| Signed, ____________________________________________ __________________ |
| your signature date |
| |
| ____________________________________________ __________________ |
| Don Cappaert date |
+=============================================================================+
The following text is a description of MAXimize that can be used in your
catalog. You will notice that MAXimize consists of three separate disks.
Your customers should be able to request them separately if desired.
Also, these files are "zipped" together. If you are interested in a
self-extracting AND installing version, please contact us.
Description of MAXimize:
------------------------
MAXimize is an Application Interface Manager (AIM) that is faster,
more powerful, easier to use and change than menu systems. It greatly
improves your productivity by allowing you to easily design, build
and control an intuitive interface to your programs. This will
increase your speed and reduce errors. MAXimize provides an operating
environment with significantly greater flexibility and capabilities.
Basic Edition in file MAXBAS31.ZIP ($39):
-----------------------------------------
Fast, uses no memory when invoking programs, cascading windows,
SAA/CUA, pull down menus, dialog boxes/buttons, fully customizable,
integrated and sophisticated selection/menu editor, 99 selections per
menu/screen, unlimited menus, hot keys, full mouse support, usage
logging, extensive passwords, secured screen save, timed execution,
can load TSRs. Easily update, delete, copy or transfer multiple
selections with one operation. Searches hard disks to find program
when adding selection. Multiple user support, multiple sessions under
a task switcher (e.g. under Software Carousel), network compatible,
network license control. Excellent on-line help and documentation.
TSR to prevent control breaks and reboots.
Gold Edition in file MAXGLD31.ZIP ($59):
----------------------------------------
Basic edition plus: 25/43/50 line screen, help text for each
selection, set default directories. Add text to menus (for company
name, logo and help). Set keys used to pick selections with (e.g. type
X to pick "eXit"). These keys can also be numeric, alpha-numeric or
the first character.
Batch files can be coded within a selection. MAXimize adds many
powerful batch language extensions and allows a selection to have
multiple input prompts. Prompts can be for text, an item from a list,
a file, directory or drive. Prompts/commands can be conditionally
executed.
Supports environment, input (e.g. %1), global and special variables.
Global variables are used to hold/pass information among selections.
Special variables return the date, time, drive, directory, DOS
version, etc.
Utilities in file MAXUTL31.ZIP. Used in Gold & Basic:
-----------------------------------------------------
The usage log utility produces many reports on how your PC or LAN
software is used. Report on who used what software, how often, when
it was used and for how long. It costs $10 and is great for
determining what software your family or business uses. Good for IRS
and billing purposes.
The network license control utility ensures that the number of users
of a program don't exceed the number of licenses purchased. Cost based
on number of network users.
The AutoMenu MDF file conversion utility is for the Gold edition only
and is included free of charge. It converts AutoMenu MDF compatible
menus to MAXimize menus.
Max Software provides the following registration benefits:
----------------------------------------------------------
> BBS support on CompuServe
> Latest version sent when registered
> Nicely printed manual
> Upgrade notices are sent with each new release
> Telephone support
> Site licenses and quantity discounts
> Customization of software is available, but not included in
registration fee
> ASP membership will be applied for. All regulations of the ASP have
been followed. Please call if you want the status of this.
WHATSNEW.DOC
The following is a summary of the updates for version 3.1 of
MAXimize. To get a list of the features in MAXimize please
review the FEATURES.DOC file.
> Cascading windows or full window display of menus.
> Hide or disable items in the menu bar or on the pull down menus.
> Faster when using a mouse compatible with MicroSoft v6.0 or up.
Directory of PC-SIG Library Disk #3657
Volume in drive A has no label
Directory of A:\
MAXGOLD ZIP 322848 6-22-93 2:32p
GO BAT 37 6-22-93 2:44p
GO TXT 2156 6-22-93 2:44p
PKUNZIP EXE 29378 2-01-93 2:04a
4 file(s) 354419 bytes
5120 bytes free