Dec 112017
Checkbook / Acct Payable V 2.1. | |||
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File Name | File Size | Zip Size | Zip Type |
CHECK.DOC | 53358 | 13923 | deflated |
CHECK.EXE | 93992 | 45539 | deflated |
CINSTALL.EXE | 40442 | 26499 | deflated |
ORDER.DOC | 2372 | 814 | deflated |
WARNING.DOC | 985 | 467 | deflated |
Download File CHECK2.ZIP Here
Contents of the CHECK.DOC file
Checkeroo Version 2.1
USER'S GUIDE
Copyright (C) 1986, 1987 - Tom Rodman
* * NOTICE * *
The author of this program and user's guide has made every effort to
ensure mathematical accuracy. This program and user's guide are
distributed "as-is," without warranty of any kind. Further, Tom Rodman
does not warrant, guarantee or make any representation regarding the
accuracy, the use, the results of the use of this program and user's
guide, or otherwise.
Registered users of this program are entitled to unlimited support via
U.S. mail, or electronic mail. Registered users also will be given
advance notice of future upgrades, and be given the opportunity to order
these upgrades for a small shipping & handling charge.
Permission is hereby given to you to evaluate Checkeroo. If you find
this program useful, you are required to pay $20, using the form
provided on page 2. If you find that Checkeroo does not fit your needs,
please discontinue using the program. Either way, feel free to give a
copy of Checkeroo to others who wish to evaluate it.
Registration is also required for business users on a per-machine basis.
This means that if you are using Checkeroo on three different machines,
three registrations are required. This also applies to CPAs and
consultants who have their clients using Checkeroo. At least one
registration is required per client. Site licensing discounts are
available. Please contact me for details.
If you copy Checkeroo and/or its associated files, all files must remain
in their original state. You are not permitted to add to, remove from or
change in any way the files associated with Checkeroo. While I encourage
the free distribution of Shareware, you may charge the recipient a
reasonable amount for any distribution and/or shipping costs. I reserve
all rights to Checkeroo and will be the sole judge of what is
reasonable. If you have any doubts, please contact me.
With the exception of reasonable shipping and/or handling costs, you are
not permitted to charge anyone any amount for Checkeroo without my
written consent. My address can be found on the registration form on
page 2.
Thank you for trying Checkeroo. I look forward to hearing from you.
Very truly yours,
Tom Rodman
*** Member, Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP) ***
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
Please read this!!
Checkeroo took many, many hours to pull together. For that reason, I ask
that you send $20 after you've had a chance to evaluate the program and
determine that it suits your needs. If Checkeroo is not for you, please
stop using it.
As a registered user, you're entitled to free, unlimited support, and
you only pay shipping & handling on future releases. Registered users
will also receive instructions for disabling the Shareware statement
screen that appears after 100 entries have been entered in Checkeroo.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Ver2.1
Checkeroo Registration
YOUR NAME _________________________________________________
STREET ADDRESS _________________________________________________
CITY, STATE, ZIP _________________________________________________
Where did you get this copy of Checkeroo?
__________________________________________________________________
Send: XX XXXXXX XXXXXX
XXXXXX XX XX XX
XX XX XX XX
XXXXXX XXXXXX XX XX
XX XX XX XX
XXXXXX XX XX XX
XX XXXXXX XXXXXX To:
Tom Rodman
1544 Lighthouse Dr.
Naperville, IL 60565
*** Attention modem users ***
Beginning December 1987, you may register your copy of Checkeroo via
modem using Visa or Mastercard. You'll have access to the instructions
for disabling Checkeroo's Shareware screen at that time.
The number is (619) 455-5226, operating at 300/1200/2400 baud, 8 bits,
no parity, 1 stop bit. This is a toll call to Southern California.
Hours of operation will initially be 07:00-23:00 Pacific Standard Time.
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 1
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
PERSONAL FINANCE -- How Checkeroo Saved the World
For those of you who are reading this for the first time, welcome to
Checkeroo. You are about to begin your exploration of one of the great
(greatest?) checkbook/accounts payable management systems. You're among
the lucky ones -- you don't have to deal with some of the shortcomings
that others lived through with previous releases.
To those of you who used previous versions, welcome to the next chapter.
To those of you who registered Version 1, anxious to get their hands on
Version 2, thank you for waiting. I'm sorry I couldn't have finished
this earlier.
Gee, where to begin? I compiled a big list of all of the recommendations
registered users of Version 1 sent in and I think nearly all of them
have been included in Version 2. There was one I couldn't find a
solution to -- making Checkeroo generate the income necessary to cover
all checks written (sorry, Jim, maybe Version 3?)
While Checkeroo saved multitudes of people from frustration, ulcers,
divorce and audits, it had its faults. I don't know if anyone noticed
that you couldn't edit previous entries
I received two or three
could delete an erroneous entry and add a new one at the end
those of you who are starting to tremble for being reminded...
Checkeroo Version 2 edits!
Other improvements include a sort function that puts all of those out of
sequence entries back in order. Registered users will find they no
longer have to look at the obnoxious Shareware screen. Unregistered
users (with more than 100 entries) will look at one that's many times
more obnoxious! As you go through this users guide, you'll find all
kinds of other imrovements.
Well, enough said. The whole point of Checkeroo is to help you save time
and I'm not helping by wasting it. Let me make one last comment before
you embark on your journey...
While I enjoy working on Checkeroo, I don't just do it for fun. As you
balance your checkbook, look in the deposit column. Chances are, most of
that money came to you because of what you did for someone else - you
were compensated for something. All I ask is that you treat me the same
way that you're being treated. I ask that you compensate me for the work
I've done for you. If you think that's unreasonable, use the new edit
function to remove all of the deposits in your account, take a look at
the new balances and rethink your position.
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 2
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GETTING STARTED .................................................. 4
PROGRAM INSTALLATION ............................................. 5
USING CHECKEROO IN THE REAL WORLD ................................ 6
BEGINNING A SESSION (checkbook filenames) ........................ 7
CHECKBOOK FILES - BACKUP ......................................... 8
PROGRAM CONTROL
THE MAIN MENU .................................................... 9
[1] ACCESS CHECKBOOK ...........................................10
GETTING AROUND THE CHECKBOOK .................................11
[F1] ADD ENTRIES ...........................................12
[F2] DELETE ENTRIES ........................................14
[F3] CLEARED BANK ..........................................15
[F4] TOGGLE DISPLAY ........................................15
[F5] EDIT ..................................................16
[2] PRINT REGISTER .............................................16
[3] SEARCH BY CODE .............................................17
[4] SEARCH BY STRING ...........................................18
[5] VERIFY BALANCES ............................................19
[6] FILE STATISTICS ............................................19
[7] BALANCE WITH BANK ..........................................20
[8] SORT CHECKBOOK .............................................21
ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS...
ON CODES .........................................................22
CODE WORKSHEET....................................................23
WHY SHOULD YOU PAY FOR CHECKEROO? ................................24
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 3
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
GETTING STARTED
This manual will take you through the process of creating and managing
your checking account(s) step-by-step. It's broken down into sections
that correspond to Checkeroo's main menu options, as well as the
functions available in the checkbook. Before we get too involved in the
program, though, we need to get Checkeroo set up and running on your
system.
First, you need to make a working copy of the program disk. If you're
using a dual floppy disk system, you can use the DOS command:
COPY A:*.* B:*.*/V
to copy from your Checkeroo master disk in drive A: to a blank,
formatted disk in drive B.
If you're using a hard drive, copy the contents of the Checkeroo
distribution disk onto your hard drive using the command:
COPY A:*.* C:\PATH\*.*/V
If your hard drive is other than drive C:, substitute its letter. The
PATH is the directory\subdirectory into which you want to place the
Checkeroo files. I recommend that you create a separate directory for
Checkeroo and its data files. A directory called \CHECKS would be easy
to remember. (see your hard drive or DOS manual for specifics concerning
directories, subdirectories and paths).
In either case, you must be sure that you at least copy these two files:
CHECK.EXE (The program)
CINSTALL.EXE (The installation program)
These two files must be present on your working copy. Checkeroo will be
creating several other files during its execution.
Now that you have your working copy, label it (if it's a floppy), and
file away the master in a safe place. In the event that your working
copy fails, you'll be glad that you did.
Now that we have a working copy, let's "activate" it with the
installation program ...
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 4
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
PROGRAM INSTALLATION
Before Checkeroo can operate, you need to tell it some things about how
you would like it to operate. Think of this installation as
"customizing" Checkeroo to suit your personal tastes. If your tastes
change (or your computer system does), just repeat the following
instructions to re-customize Checkeroo.
The first step to installing Checkeroo is to set your DOS default to the
drive that contains your working copy.
IF Checkeroo IS ON A FIXED DISK... change to the directory that contains
CHECK.EXE and CINSTALL.EXE.
IF Checkeroo IS ON A FLOPPY... your DOS prompt should be A>. If it
isn't, type A:[RETURN].
Now, you're ready to roll. Let's load the installation program by typing
the following at your DOS prompt:
CINSTALL [RETURN]
You'll now be given a series of questions that will determine how
Checkeroo will run.
1) First, you'll be asked to confirm that you've read and understand
the disclaimer and software license.
2) Next, you're asked whether you have a color or monochrome monitor.
Press the highlighted key that corresponds to your choice. If you chose
monochrome, proceed to step #4.
3) If you chose color, you will now be presented with a bordered
screen that contains high and low intensity text, flashing text and a
description of how each is used in the program. Press the highlighted
key that corresponds to the element you wish to change to see another
color. Repeat this process with each element until you find a pleasing
combination. When you're satisfied, press [Esc].
4) Next, you'll be asked whether or not you want sound. Checkeroo
ALWAYS makes a warning sound when you make a mistake, but this allows
you to do away with Checkeroo's "chirp" prompt which can be helpful, but
may be annoying in an office environment.
At this point, the installation program will save the parameters you've
specified, and you'll be taken to the Checkeroo program (finally).
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 5
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
USING Checkeroo IN THE REAL WORLD
I wrote Checkeroo to organize my expenses and to save time. If used
properly, it will benefit you in the same ways.
If you use single copy checks and record them in the register that came
with your checks, sit down every week or so, and enter those
transactions into Checkeroo. You'll be able to balance your account with
your bank statement in a matter of moments. You'll instantly be able to
check your math, and best of all, you'll be able to analyze where your
money is going with Checkeroo's powerful search functions.
To make things even easier, order some of those checks with a carbon
copy. Whenever you have a "Checkeroo session", just look at your copys,
and "plug in" the information. This allows you to avoid having to record
your transactions.
If you use an automatic teller machine (ATM), fear not. Unlike other
checkbook programs, Checkeroo fully supports all ATM transactions (see
the section on ADD ENTRIES for details). Maybe you'd like to use
Checkeroo to keep track of your passbook savings account or money market
account. No problem... Checkeroo is flexible enough to do it.
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 6
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
BEGINNING A SESSION - THE OPENING SCREEN
There are two ways to load Checkeroo. The first method is to type
CHECK [Return] at the DOS prompt. This will take you to Checkeroo's
opening screen which prompts you for a drive and checkbook name. For
example, if you want to store your data on a disk in drive B, and you
wanted to name this checkbook (or account) 1988, you would type:
B:1988 [RETURN]
If you are using subdirectories, paths may also be included:
C:\CHECKS\1988
Only two rules apply to the drive:checkbook name prompt:
Your response must conform to DOS filename specifications.
DON'T USE A FILENAME EXTENSION. Checkeroo creates two files for
each checkbook and automatically adds the extensions
The second method allows you to specify the checkbook name on the DOS
command line when the program is loaded, bypassing the opening screen.
To load Checkeroo with this direct method, type the following at the DOS
command line:
CHECK CHECKBOOKNAME
Where CHECKBOOKNAME is the name of the checkbook you want to work with.
If you are creating a new checkbook, Checkeroo will display a screen
that informs you that the checkbook you entered can't be located. TO
CREATE A NEW CHECKBOOK, PRESS [RETURN].
If you get this screen when you were expecting to access an existing
checkbook, you probably mistyped the checkbook name. TO TRY AGAIN, PRESS
[Esc]. You'll be returned to the opening screen.
Once you've created (or accessed) a valid checkbook, you'll be taken
directly to the main menu.
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 7
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
CHECKBOOK FILES -BACKUP
Occasionallly, you'll want to make backup copies of your checkbook data.
Making backups is recommended before using Checkeroo's SORT function and
before Checkeroo Version 2 accesses a checkbook created with earlier
versions of Checkeroo for the first time. Backing-up your data is also a
good regular habit to get into. Should your data disk fail, you'll be
glad you did.
A 'checkbook' is actually two files on the drive\path you specified when
you first created them. If you called your checkbook 1987, the two files
are:
1987.DTA and 1987.PRM
Copy these files to a floppy disk for safe storage. If your main copy
ever fails, at least you'll have your latest backup. REMEMBER - Each
checkbook has its own pair of files. If you use Checkeroo on THREE
different checkbooks (accounts), you'll need to copy SIX files. If you
don't understand copying procedures, see your DOS manual for an
explanation of the COPY command.
*** IMPORTANT ***
Since it is the .DTA and .PRM files that contain your actual checkbook
information, NEVER copy them when you give Checkeroo to others to
evaluate. If you desire confidentiality, NEVER COPY .DTA AND .PRM FILES
FOR OTHERS.
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 8
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
THE MAIN MENU
The main menu is the gateway to the various sections of Checkeroo.
Whenever you complete a task in any section, you'll return here.
An important thing to remember is that wherever you are in the program,
the [Esc] key will always take you back one step (it "backs you out").
That also holds true in the main menu. Pressing [Esc] will return you to
the opening screen. Pressing [Esc] at the opening screen returns you to
the DOS prompt. Being able to [Esc] to the opening screen from the main
menu allows you to access another checkbook without reloading the
program.
*** WARNING ***
In many situations, Checkeroo updates its data files as you [Esc] a
particular section of the program. For this reason, NEVER shut off the
computer while Checkeroo is running. Always use [Esc] to "back your way
out the front door" to the DOS prompt. Failure to do so could result in
lost data.
The bottom left corner of the main menu screen displays the checkbook
you are currently working on (the "active" checkbook), the bottom right
corner displays the number of active entries in the active checkbook.
Each choice on the main menu is preceeded by a number. Pressing that
number takes you directly to that section of the program.
Option #1 is "ACCESS CHECKBOOK". This is where you'll be spending most
of your time with Checkeroo, so let's begin there...
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 9
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
ACCESS CHECKBOOK
Option #1 on the main menu "access checkbook" takes you to your
electronic checkbook, or register. This is where you'll be spending the
majority of your time.
Checkeroo will draw a screen that resembles the old paper register
you're accustomed to. There are two things you should take note of:
1) On the lower right corner, you'll see a page number.
Checkeroo allows you to look at and modify your data one page at a
time, but uses logic to determine the "active" page; that is, the
page on which new data will be entered. Every time you access the
checkbook from the main menu, you'll be taken directly to the
active page.
2) The checkbook screen is divided into three main sections: the
top section displays your data in columns; the bottom section
contains a "mini-menu;" and, in-between, there's a rectangular area
called the "workspace." It's in this work space that you'll enter
new data.
In the workspace, Checkeroo will always display one of two
messages:
Ready...
- or -
Working...
When "Ready..." is displayed in the workspace, Checkeroo is
ready to accept your commands. But when "Working..." is displayed,
Checkeroo is performing any of a number of internal functions which
usually take no more than a couple of seconds. When "Ready..."
reappears, you're ready to get to work.
Now, let's spend some time learning how to "get around" the checkbook...
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 10
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
"GETTING AROUND" THE CHECKBOOK
Right below the "Ready..." or "Working..." message in the workspace are
some reminders of the keys used to get around the checkbook:
[PgUp] and [PgDn]
These two keys take you backward or forward, respectively, one page at a
time. You can always check your location by looking at the page number
in the lower right corner.
[Home] and [End]
The Home key takes you to the first page of the checkbook and the End
key takes you to the last, or "active" page.
Anytime you press an invalid key (i.e., pressing End when you're already
on the last page), Checkeroo will "honk."
Now, let's cover the operational functions within the checkbook...
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 11
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
[F1] ADD ENTRIES
Pressing the [F1] key on your computer allows you to enter new data.
You'll be prompted for five inputs:
DATE
The data must be entered as six numbers. Example: 10/5/86 would be
entered as 100586. Simply pressing [Return] within a blank date line
will duplicate the last date entered or the current date, if this is the
first entry. This "repeating" feature is handy if you pay a number of
bills on the same day, because you only need to enter the date once.
NUMBER
This prompt appears directly below the number column. This is where you
enter the check number or a blank if it's a deposit or "ATM" for an
automatic teller machine transaction. Like the date input, pressing
[Return] on a blank line repeats the last entry in the number column. If
you press [Return] on a blank number prompt and the last entry in that
column was a check number, Checkeroo will return the next consecutive
number. If you'd like to leave the number entry blank (i.e., for a
deposit), you'll need to press [Space] [Return].
TRANSACTION
You are now presented with a prompt for the transaction column. This is
where you'll enter "DEPOSIT" or to whom the check was written. You may
also add a note, such as:
DR. JONES - JOHN
This will allow you to later locate this entry by searching for either
"Dr. Jones" or "John." Searching is described in further detail on page
18.
DEBIT
After entering a transaction, you're prompted for a debit amount
directly under the DEBIT column. It is not necessary to enter zeros
after the decimal point. Checkeroo will "fill-in-the-blanks:"
$23.00 can be entered as 23 [Return] $23.50 can be entered as 23.5
[Return]
If you DO enter a debit amount, Checkeroo assumes that you don't want a
deposit in the same entry. So it skips the deposit prompt when you hit
[Return].
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 12
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
DEPOSIT
If you do want to enter a DEPOSIT, just press [Return] on a blank DEBIT
line. Checkeroo will then present a DEPOSIT prompt. This prompt is
identical to the DEBIT prompt in that it will enter zeros after the
decimal point.
CODES
You'll now be taken to a prompt for "Codes." These codes are a powerful
feature of Checkeroo. The code input line (directly below the Balance
column) allows for the input of up to 10 characters. A code can be any
one letter or number that you use to designate a particular category.
For example, all of your automotive related expenses might have a code
such as "C." Or, you might want to give them a code such as "4." A more
detailed explanation of code implementation can be found on pages 17 and
22, as well as some examples of how to make the best use of them. After
you have entered your code(s), press [Return].
* * *
You have now completed entering a transaction into the checkbook. The
information from the workspace now appears in the next slot at the top
of the screen. The workspace clears and you are presented with another
DATE prompt and Checkeroo is ready for you to enter another transaction.
If this is the last transaction you are going to enter, press [Esc] at
the DATE prompt and you'll be returned to the command level.
One final note: at any prompt within the input system, you can use the
[Back Space] key to delete characters; the [Esc] key to go back one
prompt. Example: pressing [Esc] in the transaction prompt will take you
back to the number prompt.
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 13
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
[F2] DELETE ENTRIES
Checkeroo makes it easy to delete any entry from the checkbook. First,
"flip" through the pages until the entry you want to delete is
displayed.
When the victim is in sight, press [F2]. A highlighted bar will appear
across the first entry on the screen. Use the up and down arrow keys to
move the highlight until it covers the entry to be deleted, then press
[Return].
You'll now be asked to confirm the deletion. If you're sure (remember,
deletion is permanent), press "Y." Pressing "N" will return you to the
"Ready..." prompt.
Once you've confirmed the deletion, the "Working..." prompt will appear.
Depending on the number of entries, Checkeroo may take several moments
to delete as it recalculates balances.
If you press [F2] by mistake, you can escape the "DELETE ENTRY" mode by
pressing [Esc].
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 14
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
[F3] CLEARED BANK
Later in this manual (page 21), we'll discuss how Checkeroo balances
your checkbook against your bank statement, but here's where the process
begins.
The first step in balancing is to "check off" the entries that have
cleared the bank. With your bank statement in hand, flip through the
pages on your screen until you've found the first transaction that's
cleared.
Now, press [F3] and you'll see a highlighted bar appear over the first
entry on the page. You'll also notice that the "BALANCE" column has now
become the "CLEARED" column.
Use the up and down arrow keys to locate the entry you want to "mark" as
cleared, and press [Return]. You'll see an "X" appear in the "CLEARED"
column next to the entry you selected. This transaction is now "marked"
as having cleared the bank. Checkeroo will need to know this when it
comes time to balance your account.
As with all of Checkeroo's other functions, you can escape from the
"CLEARED BANK" mode by pressing [Esc]. You'll need to escape the
"CLEARED BANK" mode to change the pages.
If you make a mistake and mark the wrong entry, move back to it and
press [Return]. The "X" disappears and the entry is "unmarked."
The first step in balancing your checkbook is to mark EVERY entry (debit
and deposit) that has cleared your bank. Do this by flipping through the
pages and using the [F3] function. The rest of the balancing procedure
is described in the "Balance With Bank" section of this manual (page
21).
[F4] TOGGLE DISPLAY
The last command in the checkbook is the [F4] "toggle display" key.
Quite simply, I didn't have room on the checkbook screen to display the
codes you entered for each transaction. Press [F4] and the "BALANCE"
column becomes the "CODES" column. Press [F4] again, and it's the
"BALANCE" column again.
The only thing to remember about the [F4] key is that it's the only
function you don't need to escape from. With [F4], you're always in
command mode.
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 15
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
[F5] EDIT
Pressing [F5] puts you in the edit mode. This mode allows you to edit
(change) any entry on the page currently being displayed. Once pressed,
you'll be asked to use the arrow key to select the entry to be edited.
Do this by moving the highlighted bar to the correct entry and pressing
[Return].
The entry you've selected now appears in the workspace below the
register. You can now add to, remove or correct any characters in any
column. Use [Return] to advance to the next column and [Esc] to go back
one. Continue pressing [Return] until you've gone through all of the
columns and the edit is complete.
"WORKING..." will now appear on your screen. Checkeroo will take a
moment to make any corrections to balances and to modify its internal
references. When the update is complete, "READY" will appear on the
screen and the changes you made will be displayed on the register. You
are now back in command mode.
When you're in edit, it is possible to [Esc]ape your way back to command
mode. When this is done, any changes are ignored. To make changes
permanent, press [Return] to skip accross all columns to the right.
PRINT REGISTER
Here's an easy one...selecting option #2 from the main menu allows you
to print out a hard copy of your checkbook.
You'll be asked whether you want to print all of the entries in your
checkbook, or just those that you've entered since the last printout.
This saves paper if you've saved past printouts.
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 16
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
SEARCH BY CODE
Now we're getting to the real power of Checkeroo. There are two search
options on the main menu. The first is "SEARCH BY CODE."
To search by codes, select option #3 from the main menu. You'll be
asked for the code you'd like to locate.
Enter the code (up to five digits) and press [Return]. Checkeroo will
now ask you to set your printer and press any key. When you do,
Checkeroo will search every entry in your checkbook and print every one
that contains the code you specified. You're gonna love this feature at
tax time!
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 17
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
SEARCH BY STRING
Selecting option #4 from the main menu allows you to search all entries
by "string." But what's a string?
Actually, "string" is computer-eeze (I've tried to avoid computer-eeze,
but couldn't come up with a better term for this one.) A string is a
series of characters "strung together." A word is a string - so is a
number. A string can also be a single character. Now that we've defined
string, here's how it works:
When you select "SEARCH BY STRING" from the main menu, you're asked for
the "search string." This is where you enter the series of characters
you'd like to search for.
If you'd like to locate every check you wrote to "DR JONES," enter "DR
JONES [Return].
If you want to see every check you wrote to DR JONES, DR SMITH and DR
GRABOWSKI, enter "DR [Return]." Get it?
In the above example, "DR [Return]" not only would locate the medical
professionals listed, but would also find "DRY CLEANERS." To avoid this,
try "DR [space] [Return]." Remember, Checkeroo will search for exact
occurrences of the characters you specified. There is a [space] after
"DR" for the doctors, but not for "DRY CLEANERS."
You may also want to enter a [space] first. Entering "[space] OR" would
find "LOYAL ORDER OF MOOSE," but not "MEL'S MOTORS."
You'll need to experiment with strings a little, but once you figure
things out, you'll have harnessed one of the most powerful benefits of
electronic checkbook management.
The "SEARCH BY STRING" option not only searches data in the
"TRANSACTION" column, but also in the "NUMBER" column. This makes it
possible to locate all of your automatic teller machine transactions by
entering "ATM [Return]". You can even locate a particular check by
searching for its check number.
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 18
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
VERIFY BALANCES
Option #5 on the main menu - "VERIFY BALANCES" - is a feature for the
insecure. If you have a hard time trusting your computer, selecting this
option will cause Checkeroo to re-calculate all balances and compare its
new result to the original.
If you still have no faith after verification, sell your computer and
buy an abacus.
FILE STATISTICS
Selecting option #6 from the main menu breaks down all of your
transactions and presents figures for:
Total Deposits
and
Total Debits
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 19
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
BALANCE WITH BANK
Now here's a time saver. Selecting option #7 from the main menu takes
you to the balancing screen, but before you go there, you need to do
three things:
1) "Mark" all cleared transactions (see section on "CLEARED
BANK").
2) Enter any and all service charges from your bank as debits in
the checkbook, AND MARK THEM AS CLEARED!!
3) Enter any and all interest paid by the bank as deposits in
the checkbook, AND MARK IT CLEARED!!
When you select "BALANCE WITH BANK" from the main menu, you'll be asked
to confirm that you've performed the steps mentioned above. You'll then
be asked for the balance (or, new balance) or your bank's statement.
Now, Checkeroo goes to work. Go get a cup of coffee, and when you come
back, you'll have a printout that includes an "Adjusted Balance" (which
should agree with your adjusted bank balance), as well as complete
justification (i.e., a listing of transactions that haven't cleared
yet).
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 20
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
SORT CHECKBOOK
Option #8 on the main menu is SORT CHECKBOOK. This feature re-sequences
all of your entries.
The results of a sort are permanent and the original order cannot be
restored.
Entries are sorted in ascending order. First priority is given to DATE.
Entries with the same date are then sub-sorted according to the NUMBER
column in ascending order, with alphabetic entries listed first. For
example, the following entries:
10/26/87 DEPOSIT 1525.77
10/25/87 1132 JUAN'S DELI 25.32
10/26/87 ATM WITHDRAWAL 15.00
10/26/87 1133 CHECKEROO REGISTRATION 20.00
Would look like this after a sort:
10/25/87 1132 JUAN'S DELI 25.32
10/26/87 DEPOSIT 1525.77
10/26/87 ATM WITHDRAWAL 15.00
10/26/87 1133 CHECKEROO REGISTRATION 20.00
Checkeroo will recalculate each balance during a sort, since changing
the order of entries will effect the running balance. You'll find that
the end balance remains the same. Checkeroo even goes into BALANCE
VERIFICATION mode automatically after each sort.
Please note that the SORT CHECKBOOK function performs a disk-based sort
that is rather time consuming. Since it is a function you will rarely
use, that shouldn't pose much of a problem. The time required for a sort
depends on three factors:
NUMBER OF ENTRIES - COMPUTER SPEED - DISK SPEED
A sort of 600 entries on a 4.77 Mhz computer with data stored on a hard
drive took nearly 20 minutes. If you have more data or a floppy drive,
you might want to consider going to dinner or a movie during a sort!
*** WARNING ***
NEVER, under any conditions, interupt the computer during a sort. Any
interruption whatsoever will result in an unusable checkbook. For this
reason, IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you make a backup copy of your
data files before beginning a sort. Even a power interuption will
destroy your data. Please see the section called CHECKBOOK FILES for
information on backing up your data
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 21
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
A FEW NOTES ON CODES
In designing a "code" or "category" system for Checkeroo, I took a look
at quite a few existing programs. Many require you to "establish" or
"create" categories, and assign each transaction to one or more of them.
Not only did this require additional programming, but the system itself
tends to be self-limiting.
Checkeroo's code system consists of a ten-character line for each entry
in which you may enter up to ten characters.
Each of these characters, or a combination of up to five characters is a
"code" that can be searched using Checkeroo's "SEARCH BY CODE" function.
There is no need to "create a category" as is the case with other
programs.
Let's say that you wrote a check to DR JONES for your son Jim's physical
exam. You might use "M" as a code for medical bills, "J" for Jim's
expenses and "T" for tax deductable items. In this example, the code
line for this check to DR JONES might look like this:
MJT
This way, you can locate this check in a search for all medical
expenses, all of Jim's expenses or all tax deductable expenses.
Many business users suggested that Checkeroo should allow for up to five
characters per code. That suggestion is implemented in Version 2. Now,
formal account numbers can be used in the code column and located using
SEARCH BY CODE.
For more information on codes, see page 17 (SEARCH BY CODE), page 12
(ADD ENTRIES) and page 15 (TOGGLE DISPLAY).
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 22
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
CODE WORKSHEET
CODE: DESCRIPTION:
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
----------- --------------------------------------------------
YOU MAY WANT TO MAKE COPIES OF THIS WORKSHEET FOR
ADDITIONAL CHECKBOOKS
Copyright (C) 1986,1987 - Tom Rodman page 23
== Checkeroo Version 2.1 User's Guide ==
WHY SHOULD YOU PAY FOR CHECKEROO?
Checkeroo is not a free program. It is distributed as "Shareware."
Shareware DOES NOT mean that you don't have to pay. It means that you
have a chance to evaluate the program BEFORE YOU PAY. Anyone who tells
you that this is a free program, or gives you the impression that
they've sold it to you, has ripped us both off. They've sold you my
product without paying me for it and as a result, you don't have access
to the technical support and upgrade programs registered users are
entitled to.
Shareware is distributed by various means. You might have obtained this
program from a national data network, a local bulletin board or user's
group, a friend or even a "disk vendor." In fact, Shareware authors
ENCOURAGE free distribution of their programs by these and other means
for the purpose of EVALUATION. But under no circumstances can anyone
tell you, or give you the impression that this software is free, or has
been paid for. Persons or organizations who "forget" to mention this, or
who intentionally hide this fact don't deserve your business.
If you've been misled into thinking that you "bought" this program from
someone, please let me know. I fully intend to protect both of us.
By distributing Checkeroo as Shareware, I've not only given you the
chance to evaluate the program before paying for it, I'm also making it
possible for you to obtain the program for much less than it would cost
if it were a commercial program. I am saving you money.
After you've looked Checkeroo over, please take a moment to fill-out the
registration form in this user's guide and send it in with your payment.
Together, we can help make computing affordable.
THANK YOU!
*** Member, Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP) ***
December 11, 2017
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