Magnum One/Magnum One (Mid-American Digital) (Disc Manufacturing).iso/d6/cmpdoc.arc/CMPLUS.DOC

Text File | 1991-01-26 | 277.1 KB | 8,618 lines

                     ******** CheckMate Plus (tm) ********
                           Introductory User's Guide


                         First Edition -- January 1991


                     Copyright 1991 by Custom Technologies
                              All Rights Reserved


















      -------------------------------------------------------------------
                     Custom Technologies is a member of the
                     Association of Shareware Professionals
      -------------------------------------------------------------------






     Warranty and License Agreement

     CheckMate Plus (tm) is a trademark of Custom Technologies.


     Warranty

     CheckMate Plus is provided AS IS without any warranty, expressed or
     implied, including but not limited to fitness for a particular
     purpose.  CUSTOM TECHNOLOGIES SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL
     WARRANTIES.  IN NO EVENT SHALL CUSTOM TECHNOLOGIES BE LIABLE FOR ANY
     LOSS OF PROFIT OR ANY OTHER COMMERCIAL DAMAGE, INCLUDING BUT NOT
     LIMITED TO SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHER DAMAGES
     RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT.


     License

     The CheckMate Plus software is the property of Custom Technologies.
     You are granted a license to use this software for a limited time for
     the specific purpose of evaluation before purchase.  If you use
     CheckMate Plus on a continuous basis, please register your copy to
     obtain a permanent license.

     You are free to make as many copies as you wish and may distribute
     CheckMate Plus freely (in its original form, including disk-based
     documentation).  Recipients of copies you make are granted a
     limited license to use CheckMate Plus on a trial and evaluation basis.
     If the recipient wishes to use CheckMate Plus on a continuous basis,
     he should register his copy.

     You may not sell or ask any consideration for this product.  SIGs and
     BBSs may ask a nominal fee to cover their copying and distribution
     costs.  OEMs wishing to bundle CheckMate Plus with other products
     should contact Custom Technologies for details.  This User's Guide,
     however, may  NOT  be reproduced in any form or for any reason without
     the expressed written consent of Custom Technologies.












                                 Contents



          Chapter 1  Introduction                                    3
             1.1  About Shareware  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
             1.2  About this Introductory User's Guide . . . . . . . 4
             1.3  About CheckMate Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
                1.3.1  Features  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
             1.4  System Requirements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
             1.5  Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
                1.5.1  If you got CheckMate Plus from a Disk
                       Vendor  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
                1.5.2  If you got CheckMate Plus from a BBS  . . . . 8
             1.6  Upgrading from CheckMate and CheckMate-GL  . . . . 8
             1.7  Running CheckMate Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
             1.8  Getting Started  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

          Chapter 2  Things You Need to Know                        11
             2.1  Menus  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  11
             2.2  The "Bottom Line"  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  11
             2.3  The "Top Line" . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  12
             2.4  Online Help  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  12
             2.5  The Calculator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  12
             2.6  Special Keys and Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . .  13
             2.7  Data Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  14
             2.8  Date Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  15
             2.9  Using a Mouse  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  16
             2.10  The Built-In Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  16
             2.11  The "Search and Filter" Window  . . . . . . . .  17
                2.11.1  Saving Filter Definitions  . . . . . . . .  19
                2.11.2  Retrieving Filter Definitions  . . . . . .  20
                2.11.3  Deleting Filter Definitions  . . . . . . .  20

          Chapter 3  Accounts                                       21
             3.1  Types of Accounts  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  21
                3.1.1  Checking Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . .  22
                3.1.2  Other Detail Accounts . . . . . . . . . . .  22
                3.1.3  Summary Accounts  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  23
             3.2  Entering Accounts  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  23
             3.3  Editing Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  25
             3.4  Selecting Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  25



                                       i






             3.5  Account Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  26

          Chapter 4  Transactions                                   27
             4.1  Types of Transactions  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
                4.1.1  Transactions for Checking Accounts  . . . .  27
                4.1.2  Transactions for Other Accounts . . . . . .  28
             4.2  Entering Transactions  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  28
                4.2.1  Primary Data  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  29
                4.2.2  Splitting the Transaction . . . . . . . . .  30
                4.2.3  Check Stubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
                4.2.4  Attaching Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  32
                4.2.5  Saving the Transaction  . . . . . . . . . .  32
                4.2.6  Picking from the Menu . . . . . . . . . . .  32
                4.2.7  Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  32
             4.3  Editing Transactions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  34
                4.3.1  Moving Through the Data . . . . . . . . . .  34
                4.3.2  Primary Data  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  35
                4.3.3  Splitting the Transaction . . . . . . . . .  36
                4.3.4  Check Stubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  36
                4.3.5  Attaching Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  36
                4.3.6  Saving Your Changes . . . . . . . . . . . .  37
                4.3.7  Deleting the Transaction  . . . . . . . . .  37
                4.3.8  Picking from the Menu . . . . . . . . . . .  37
                4.3.9  Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  37
             4.4  Automatic Transactions . . . . . . . . . . . . .  38
                4.4.1  On the Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  38
                4.4.2  Date Activated Transactions . . . . . . . .  41
                4.4.3  Running Scripts . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  45
             4.5  The Browse Window  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  46
             4.6  Closing Transactions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  47

          Chapter 5  Reports                                        49
             5.1  The Transaction Report . . . . . . . . . . . . .  49
             5.2  General Ledger Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . .  50
                5.2.1  The Ledger Activity Report  . . . . . . . .  50
                5.2.2  The Ledger Transaction Report . . . . . . .  51
                5.2.3  The "Chart of Accounts" Report  . . . . . .  52
             5.3  Summary Reports  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
                5.3.1  The Balance Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . .  53
                5.3.2  The Income Statement  . . . . . . . . . . .  54

          Chapter 6  Report Printing Options                        57
             6.1  Report Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  57
                6.1.1  Date  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  57
                6.1.2  "Print To" Options  . . . . . . . . . . . .  57
                6.1.3  Title . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  59
                6.1.4  Footer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  59
                6.1.5  The "Utility" Menu  . . . . . . . . . . . .  59



                                       ii






             6.2  Report Parameters  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  60
                6.2.1  Saving Report Parameters  . . . . . . . . .  61
                6.2.2  Retrieving Report Parameters  . . . . . . .  62
                6.2.3  Deleting Report Parameters from Disk  . . .  62
             6.3  "Search and Filter"  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  62

          Chapter 7  Designing Custom Reports                       63
             7.1  Report Definition Format . . . . . . . . . . . .  64
                7.1.1  Account Balances  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  65
                7.1.2  Budget Information  . . . . . . . . . . . .  67
                7.1.3  Calculations  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  68
             7.2  Tips on Designing Reports  . . . . . . . . . . .  68

          Chapter 8  Reconciling Checking Accounts                  71

          Chapter 9  Printing Checks                                75
             9.1  Printing Your Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  75
             9.2  Selecting a Check Layout . . . . . . . . . . . .  77
             9.3  Designing Your Own Check Layout  . . . . . . . .  77
             9.4  The Check Layout Language  . . . . . . . . . . .  78
                9.4.1  Reserved Words and Variables  . . . . . . .  78
                9.4.2  Command Sequence  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  79
                9.4.3  A Simple Example  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  80
                9.4.4  Layout Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  82
                9.4.5  Built-in Variables  . . . . . . . . . . . .  89
                9.4.6  Expressions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  91

          Chapter 10  Graphics                                      95
             10.1  System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  95
             10.2  Graphic Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  95
             10.3  "One Account" Graphics Reports  . . . . . . . .  96
                10.3.1  Account Activity Graphics Report . . . . .  96
                10.3.2  Budget Analysis Graphics Report  . . . . .  96
             10.4  "Ledger" Graphics Reports . . . . . . . . . . .  96
                10.4.1  Expenses vs Income Graphics Report . . . .  96
                10.4.2  Expenses by Month Graphics Report  . . . .  97
                10.4.3  Income by Month Graphics Report  . . . . .  97
                10.4.4  Detailed Expense Graphics Report . . . . .  97
                10.4.5  Detailed Income Graphics Report  . . . . .  97
                10.4.6  Debt to Equity Graphics Report . . . . . .  97
                10.4.7  Debt to Assets Graphics Report . . . . . .  98

          Chapter 11  Rebuilding and Repairing                      99
             11.1  Rebuilding the Database . . . . . . . . . . . .  99
             11.2  Rebuilding the Index File . . . . . . . . . . . 100
             11.3  Rebuilding Accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100





                                      iii






          Chapter 12  Financial Calculations                       103
             12.1  Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
             12.2  Regular Deposits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
             12.3  Compounding a Fixed Sum . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

          Chapter 13  Setup and Options                            105
             13.1  Fiscal Year Information . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
             13.2  Protecting Your "Audit Trail" . . . . . . . . . 106
             13.3  The Screen Saver  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
             13.4  Colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
             13.5  Special Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
             13.6  Video Option  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
             13.7  Password Setup  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
             13.8  File Paths  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
             13.9  General Setups  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
             13.10  Report Defaults  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
             13.11  Report Headings  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

          Appendix A  An Accounting Primer                         115
             A.1  What is Accounting?  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
                A.1.1  What are ASSETS?  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
                A.1.2  What are LIABILITIES? . . . . . . . . . . . 116
                A.1.3  What is EQUITY? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
                A.1.4  The Accounting Equation . . . . . . . . . . 116
                A.1.5  What are REVENUE and EXPENSES?  . . . . . . 117
             A.2  How does it all work in real life? . . . . . . . 118
                A.2.1  What are ACCOUNTS?  . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
                A.2.2  What are DEBITS and CREDITS?  . . . . . . . 121
             A.3  Accounting Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
                A.3.1  The Trial Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
                A.3.2  The Balance Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
                A.3.3  The Income Statement  . . . . . . . . . . . 130
             A.4  Where does it all end? . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
             A.5  Final Thoughts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

          Appendix B  Ordering Checks                              135

          Appendix C  How and Where to get Help                    137
             C.1  Technical Support  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
             C.2  Association of Shareware Professionals
                  Statement  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

          Index                                                    139








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                                  Figures


          Figure 7.1: A "Test" Custom Balance Sheet  . . . . . . . .65
          Figure 7.2: A "Test" Custom Balance Sheet with Account
                      Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
          Figure A.1: Chart of Accounts for XYZ Shoes, Inc.  . . . 121
          Figure A.2: Sample Transaction . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
          Figure A.3: Sample Sales Transaction . . . . . . . . . . 123
          Figure A.4: Sample COGS Calculation  . . . . . . . . . . 124
          Figure A.5: Trial Balance for XYZ Shoes, Inc . . . . . . 127
          Figure A.6: Balance Sheet for XYZ Shoes, Inc.  . . . . . 130
          Figure A.7: Income Statement for XYZ Shoes, Inc. . . . . 131
































                                       v

























































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                                  Tables


          Table 2.1:   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
          Table 2.2: Editing Keys  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
          Table 2.3: Editor Editing Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
          Table 2.4: Search and Filter Operators . . . . . . . . . .18
          Table 3.1: Top Level Accounts  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
          Table 9.1: Check Layout Language Reserved Words  . . . . .78
          Table 9.2: Check Layout Language Built-in Variables  . . .79
          Table 13.1: Color Toggle Keys  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
          Table 13.2: Video Options  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
          Table A.1: Assets of XYZ Shoes, Inc as of Mar 1, 1987  . 118
          Table A.2: Liabilities of XYZ Shoes, Inc as of Mar 1,
                     1987  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
          Table A.3: Equity of XYZ Shoes, Inc as of Mar 1, 1987  . 119





























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                                   Chapter 1

                                  Introduction


     1.1  About Shareware


     CheckMate Plus, like many other fine "shareware" products, has been
     released by its authors to the public for evaluation.  We allow and
     encourage free copying and distribution of the program (in its un-
     altered original form).  We are committed to supporting and improving
     CheckMate Plus, as well as developing additional products.

     If you find CheckMate Plus useful, you should register your copy.  The
     shareware concept is meant to provide a full working copy to the user
     for evaluation, and NOT to give away the author's hard work.  If you
     choose not to register, then erase or pass your copy on to someone
     else.  You can register by sending $60.00 (plus $5 shipping and
     handling).

     When you register, you will be placed on our mailing list and will
     receive a new set of disks and a complete, 208-page illustrated User's
     Guide.  The User's Guide is 7"x9", glossy covered, typeset, offset
     press printed, and perfect bound.  You will also receive the latest
     version of CheckMate Plus on disk, a special "utilities" disk
     (including a program convert CheckMate and/or CheckMate-GL data to
     CheckMate Plus format), some special offers, and one year of technical
     support (by phone, fax, mail, or CompuServe).  We also offer low cost
     upgrades and discounts on future products to registered users.

     We accept checks, money orders, CODs, MasterCard, and VISA.  Make
     checks payable to Custom Technologies.  All payments must be in U.S.
     funds drawn on U.S. or Canadian banks.  Colorado residents please add
     3% sales tax.  Send your registration and all other correspondence to:

                              Custom Technologies
                                  PO Box 62118
                        Colorado Springs, CO  80962-2118
                                 [phone]





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                             3






     You may also order our products (charge cards or COD) by calling TOLL
     FREE:

                        1-800-541-6234 (Orders Only)

     If you are outside the United States or Canada and can't call toll
     free, you may reach our order line at:

                        [phone] (Orders Only)

     You may also FAX your order to:

                     [phone] (9600 bps, Group 3)

     If you have want to make a quantity or dealer purchase, or if you need
     support, call:

                               [phone]

     Thank you for your support!

     *** NOTE:  One problem with shareware is that we can't completely
     control distribution of older files.  Consequently, our address and/or
     phone numbers are subject to change over time and the ones listed
     above may not be correct.

     Although not planned at the moment, we may relocate our business as we
     continue to grow.  Our "800" order line should remain in effect
     wherever we set up business.  If you attempt to reach one of our
     commercial lines and find them no longer in service, call our 800 line
     for current phone numbers.  If you can't call toll-free, then write to
     us (we'll keep our PO box open and arrange forwarding of the mail).


     1.2  About this Introductory User's Guide


     This Introductory User's Guide fully documents all the features of
     CheckMate Plus.  Keep in mind, however, that CheckMate Plus is a VERY
     complex program with many, many features and a disk-based manual is
     only of limited use (since we can't include figures and samples).
     None the less, we've tried to make this guide as complete and easy to
     follow as possible.

     Registered copies of CheckMate Plus come with a 200+ page, 9"x7",
     perfect bound, professionally typeset manual complete with
     illustrations and index.




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                             4






     1.3  About CheckMate Plus


     Thank you for evaluating CheckMate Plus... true "double-entry"
     accounting that's easy enough for home use and powerful enough for
     business!

     In 1986, Custom Technologies released CheckMate, an easy to use
     checkbook manager with a delightful user-interface.  CheckMate
     redefined what a checkbook database should be.

     CheckMate Plus is a natural and powerful descendent of CheckMate.
     We've combined checkbook management, budgeting, accounting, and
     graphics into a highly polished and consistent interface.

     To start, CheckMate Plus helps you easily and accurately maintain your
     checking accounts (including simplifying regular monthly transactions
     and printing out your checks).

     You can "pre-define" checks that you write often, and even have
     CheckMate Plus "remind" you when they're due.  Print the ones you
     want, or write them by hand.  (You can freely mix the two methods).
     When your statement arrives, CheckMate Plus will even help you
     reconcile your account!

     You can split each check twelve ways.  Attach notes.  Even "customize"
     the check stub.

     Print reports at any time.  CheckMate Plus has many standard reports
     (which you can customize or completely redesign!).  Preview your
     reports on the screen, write them to disk, or send them to the
     printer.  And CheckMate Plus has powerful "search and filter"
     functions to let you zero in on key data.

     Since CheckMate Plus is a real double-entry accounting system, you can
     generate balance sheets, income statements, and budgeting reports.
     And don't forget the high resolution color graphics.  Whether you're
     tracking a family budget or launching a business, you'll have complete
     financial control effortlessly.

     The best feature?  EASE OF USE.  CheckMate Plus sports pull-down
     menus, pop-up windows, and context-sensitive help.

     1.3.1  Features

         o  Real "double-entry" accounting that's truly easy enough for
            home and powerful enough for business




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                             5






         o  Up to 200 accounts

         o  Checking accounts support checks, deposits, withdrawals,
            debits, credits, and ATM transactions

         o  Attach "notes" and "stubs" to each transaction

         o  Prints checks (computer form, laser, or right out of your
            checkbook!)

         o  Helps reconcile your checking accounts

         o  Many powerful and flexible reports (including standard
            accounting reports)

         o  Powerful "search and filter" functions

         o  Reports can go to the printer, disk, or the screen

         o  Financial Calculator (Loans, Deposits, and Compounding) with
            full amortization reports

         o  High resolution color graphics!

         o  Multiple ways to view your data ("full screen" & "browse"
            modes)

         o  Pop-up context-sensitive help

         o  Pull-down and Pop-up menus throughout

         o  Pop-up Calculator with rolling tape

         o  Password Protection

         o  "Budgeting" capabilities

         o  Automatic Transactions (pick from a menu or have CheckMate Plus
            "remind" you when they're due!)

         o  "User-Defined" Reports

         o  One year of technical support (by mail, phone, fax, or on-line
            with CompuServe!)

         o  Much, much, more!





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                             6






     1.4  System Requirements


     CheckMate Plus requires and IBM PC, PS2, or compatible computer
     running MSDOS 3.0 or above.  You must have at least 640K bytes of
     memory.  If you have less memory, you may be able to run CheckMate
     Plus, but you may find some features are restricted.

     We recommend a hard disk for using CheckMate Plus, but it will run on
     a floppy-only system as long as you have at least two drives.

     CheckMate Plus supports CGA, EGA, VGA, Hercules, and text-only
     displays.  If you want to display graphics, you must have a CGA, EGA,
     VGA, or Hercules adapter and a compatible monitor.

     CheckMate Plus will support virtually any printer without any special
     setup.  You can pass control codes to the printer in several ways for
     special configurations.  CheckMate Plus does not support PostScript
     printers at this time.

     CheckMate Plus recognizes the MicroSoft, Logitech, Mouse Systems, or
     any compatible mouse as an input device.  You must load your "mouse
     driver" before running CheckMate Plus.  See the documentation that
     came with your mouse for more information.


     1.5  Installation


     1.5.1  If you got CheckMate Plus from a Disk Vendor

     If you got CheckMate Plus from a disk vendor, bought the shareware
     disks directly from us, or if you got it from a friend, follow these
     instructions for installing CheckMate Plus.

     Place the CheckMate Plus "program" disk in a floppy disk drive.  Then
     "log on" to that drive (that is, if you place the disk in drive "A"
     then type "A:" to log on to drive "A").

     Now, type

          INSTALL <CR>

     The <CR> means press "carriage return" (often called "enter" on your
     keyboard).  Answer the questions as the INSTALL program directs.  It's
     that simple!





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                             7






     1.5.2  If you got CheckMate Plus from a BBS

     If you got CheckMate Plus from an electronic BB, follow these
     instructions for installing CheckMate Plus.

     Place the following files on a floppy disk (or in a subdirectory on
     your hard drive):

          CMPLUS.LZH
          INSTALL.EXE
          LHARC.EXE

     Log on to the correct or directory.  Now, type

          INSTALL <CR>

     The <CR> means press "carriage return" (often called "enter" on your
     keyboard).  Answer the questions as the INSTALL program directs.  It's
     that simple!


     1.6  Upgrading from CheckMate and CheckMate-GL


     We've developed a special program to convert existing CheckMate and/or
     CheckMate-GL data to CheckMate Plus format.  The "UPGRADE" program is
     available only to registered users, however.

     When you register CheckMate Plus, you'll receive a "utilities" disk
     with the UPGRADE program.

     If you registered CheckMate or CheckMate-GL prior to January 1, 1991
     and would like to try CheckMate Plus as shareware before upgrading,
     send us a self-addressed, post-paid diskette mailer ALONG WITH YOUR
     CHECKMATE OR CHECKMATE-GL REGISTRATION NUMBER and we'll send you a
     copy of the utilities diskette.


     1.7  Running CheckMate Plus


     To run CheckMate Plus, go to your CheckMate Plus directory (where you
     told INSTALL to put the program).  For instance, if you installed
     CheckMate Plus on drive "C" in a directory called "CMPLUS" you would
     type:

          CD \CMPLUS




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                             8






     To get to the CheckMate Plus directory.  Once there, type:

          CMPLUS <data file path>

     to run CheckMate Plus.  The <data file path> entry is optional and
     tells CheckMate Plus where to look for (or create) its data files.
     Suppose, for example, that you keep your data in a subdirectory
     (called "DATA") of the "CMPLUS" directory.  To run CheckMate Plus,
     type:

          CMPLUS C:\CMPLUS\DATA

     and CheckMate Plus will open its data files in the "C:\CMPLUS\DATA"
     directory.  Likewise, typing:

          CMPLUS B:

     tells CheckMate Plus to look on drive "B" for data.

     You can maintain multiple "sets of books" by placing separate data
     files in different directories or on different disks.  If you don't
     specify a data file path, CheckMate Plus will open its files in the
     same directory as the program files.

     + TIMESAVER: If you need to maintain many sets of books and don't want
     to remember a bunch of directory names, then create little batch files
     to call CheckMate Plus with the correct directories (see your MSDOS
     manual for more information).

     You could also use a "menuing" package such as Custom Technologies'
     "Magic Menus" to automate the selection of files.  Contact Custom
     Technologies for more information on "Magic Menus".


     1.8  Getting Started


     When you first run CheckMate Plus, you'll have a "clean" system.  That
     means you'll have to define some accounts before you can start making
     entries.  You'll do this under the "Accounts" menu.  (You can also
     define accounts "on the fly" while entering transactions, so there's
     no need to complete your Chart of Accounts up front).

     After you've entered at least one account, you've got to select a
     "control" account before entering any transactions.  You'll want to
     pick the account you'll use the most (probably your primary checking
     account).




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                             9






     After selecting a control account, you're ready to use CheckMate Plus!
     You can start entering checks and other transactions immediately.
     Take your time and explore CheckMate Plus while you use it.  Remember
     that instant help is available at the touch of the [F1] key!

     + IMPORTANT: CheckMate Plus really is a full-fledged "double-entry"
     accounting system.  If you're unfamiliar with basic accounting
     principles, read over appendix A ("An Accounting Primer") for an
     introduction.  For many of you, that's all the information you'll need
     to effectively use CheckMate Plus.  If you have more specialized
     needs, you may want to get a good book, take a class, or talk to a
     CPA.

     Also, CheckMate Plus isn't going to "force" anyone to do strict
     accounting!  If all you want to do is track your checkbook, that's no
     problem.  In fact, you can use CheckMate Plus as just a checkbook
     program now and expand into partial or full accounting at any time!

     This User's Guide holds a wealth of valuable tips and timesavers.  As
     you become comfortable with CheckMate Plus' primary features, study
     this guide and you'll be able to draw maximum productivity from
     CheckMate Plus!





























     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            10












                                   Chapter 2

                            Things You Need to Know


     2.1  Menus


     CheckMate Plus uses the popular "pull-down" menu system as its primary
     user interface.  After your start CheckMate Plus, you'll see a row of
     "choices" to choose from.  You may select any of the choices in one of
     two ways: first, by moving the high-lighted bar  to the item of your
     choice (using the left or right arrow keys or the mouse) and then
     pressing "return" (which we will also refer to as [CR]),  or, by
     pressing the starting letter of your choice.  Either method will
     instantly produce a secondary menu (with a bar that moves up and down
     instead of left to right).  Select individual functions in the same
     manner.

     Many other menus in CheckMate Plus will "pop-up" as you need them.
     They work the same as the pull-down menus.

     You can exit any menu without action by pressing the [ESC] key.


     2.2  The "Bottom Line"


     As you run CheckMate Plus, the bottom line of the screen summarizes
     many of the functions available to you.  It is always present, and
     should speed your use of the program as you become familiar with its
     many capabilities.  Most of CheckMate Plus' functions are activated by
     the PC's function keys.  The bottom line identifies the operation of
     these keys (and some others).

     You should be aware, however, that CheckMate Plus has a lot of
     capability, and there simply is not enough room to list all available
     functions on the bottom line.  We've listed those we think are most
     useful.  Refer to the online help and this User's Guide for others!






     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            11






     2.3  The "Top Line"


     The right side of the top line of the screen displays the status of
     your keyboard (CAPS LOCK, NUM LOCK, SCROLL LOCK).  It also indicates
     whether you're in insert or overwrite mode (for text entry), and
     whether you've activated the "search and filter" function (FILT).
     [alt-F] toggles the filter flag.

     The left side of the top line is reserved for working messages.  Don't
     be alarmed if they flash by too fast to read... that simply means your
     computer is fast!


     2.4  Online Help


     CheckMate Plus has built in online, context-sensitive help.  Just
     press [F1] at any time while running CheckMate Plus for instant help.
     Some help screens have multiple pages, so use [PgDn], [PgUp], the
     arrow keys, or the mouse to move through the message.

     The help screens are contained in the file "CMPLUS.HLP" and this file
     must be present in the program file path (the disk and directory with
     the CheckMate Plus program files) at runtime.


     2.5  The Calculator


     CheckMate Plus includes a pop-up financial calculator.  Pressing
     [alt-C] anytime will pop the calculator up.  The calculator has a
     rolling tape to help you keep track of your math, and you can even
     direct the output to the printer!

     You can scroll through the tape with the up and down arrow keys,
     [PgUp], and [PgDn].  The tape holds the last 100 lines entered.

     If you want to use the printer, make sure it is ready before you press
     [P].   The calculator will then echo all output to the printer.

     Also, CheckMate Plus automatically asserts the "NUMLOCK" when the
     calculator is invoked so you may use the numeric keypad on the IBM PC
     (or compatibles).

     You can "paste" your calculated results into any data field in
     CheckMate Plus by pressing [F2].  (Make sure the cursor is in the
     field you want to paste to BEFORE you activate the calculator).  You



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            12






     can only paste results after you "total" (i.e. when the "ENTER" block
     in the calculator in not reverse video).

     Press [ESC] to exit the calculator and return to CheckMate Plus.


     2.6  Special Keys and Shortcuts


     2.6.0.1  Shortcuts

     In an effort to make CheckMate Plus as "effortless" to use as
     possible, we have incorporated a number of handy "shortcuts" into
     CheckMate Plus' data entry fields.  Some of the shortcuts are specific
     to an application (and we will describe them later), others are more
     general.

     For instance, any time you're entering dates, you may press the "+"
     key to increment the date by one day. Likewise, the "-" key will
     decrement the date by one day. Pressing "=" forces the date to be the
     default (DOS) date.

     Some of the fields requiring numbers (such as the Check Number and
     Account Number fields) will also increment and decrement as you press
     the plus and minus keys.

     CheckMate Plus also has "local menus" that give you choices for
     particular fields.  The [alt-F10] key is CheckMate Plus' local menu
     key.  When you're in such a field, press [alt-F10] to pop the menu up.
     (The [alt-F10] has no effect on "non-local menu" fields).  Also, the
     middle button of a three button mouse will pop-up local menus.

     2.6.0.2  Special Keys

     Here is a list of keys you should be familiar with while using
     CheckMate Plus:















     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            13






               Key            Function

               [alt-F]        Toggles "Filter" flag
               [F1]           Online help
               [alt-C]        Pops up the calculator
               [alt-F10]      Local menu key
               [alt-M]        Memory status
               [INS]          Toggle insert/overwrite
               []alt-A        Pops up the Chart of Accounts

                                  Table 2.1:
      Special Keys


     2.7  Data Entry


     CheckMate Plus' data entry fields are among the best in the business.
     As you enter data, you'll find each field "expects" a certain type of
     information and will filter what you type appropriately.

     Some of the fields have a limited number of valid choices.  You can
     still type whatever you want in the field, and CheckMate Plus will
     attempt to match it to the valid options.  If it doesn't match,
     CheckMate Plus will "pop-up" a menu of your choices!

     All of the data fields may be edited as you type.  The following
     control-key combinations are defined within CheckMate Plus:























     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            14






          Control Key    Alternate Key  Function

          Control-D      right-arrow    move one character right
          Control-S      left-arrow     move one character left

          Control-F                     move one word right
          Control-A                     move one word left

          Control-QD     END            move to end of text
          Control-QS     HOME           move to start of field

          Control-E      up-arrow       move up one field
          Control-X      down-arrow     move down one field

          Control-G      DEL            delete character at cursor
          Control-T                     delete word right
          Control-QY                    delete field right
          Control-Y                     delete entire field

          Control-H      BACKSPACE      delete character left

          Control-V      INS            toggle INSERT/OVERWRITE

                            Table 2.2: Editing Keys



     2.8  Date Formats


     Over the years, we've discovered that different people and different
     lands enter and display "dates" in many different formats.
     Fortunately, CheckMate Plus lets you pick from a wide variety of
     formats to use (under the Setup menu).

     CheckMate Plus also allows "free format" date entry in all of its date
     fields.  This means you can enter dates in almost any format you want
     and CheckMate Plus will figure out what you mean.  For instance,
     2/12/90, 12 Mar 89, and Sept 10, 1987 are all legal formats to enter
     dates regardless of how you want the date displayed.  You need only
     ensure you use some non-alphanumeric delimiter (such as a space or a
     "/") between the month, day, and year.  You can even leave all or part
     of the date out and CheckMate Plus will use the defaults (from the DOS
     date).







     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            15






     2.9  Using a Mouse


     If you have a Microsoft, Logitech, Mouse Systems, or compatible mouse,
     CheckMate Plus will recognize it as an input device.  You must load
     your mouse driver BEFORE running CheckMate Plus (see the documentation
     that accompanies your mouse).

     In data entry fields, the mouse will "drag" the cursor around as you
     move it.  The mouse moves the highlighted bar in menus and in the
     "virtual paper" mode.

     The left button acts like the [CR] key and the right button emulates
     the [ ESC] key.  If you have a three button mouse, the middle button
     will activate local menus (just like [alt-F10]).


     2.10  The Built-In Editor


     CheckMate Plus has a very simple built-in text editor.  You'll use
     this editor when you're working with "stubs" or "notes" in
     transactions, or while defining custom reports or check layouts (for
     printing checks).

     The editor is not fancy, but it will get the job done.  Many of the
     keys you can use while editing are the same you use in any of the data
     entry fields.























     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            16






          Control Key    Alternate Key  Function

          Control-D      right-arrow    move one character right
          Control-S      left-arrow     move one character left

          Control-F                     move one word right
          Control-A                     move one word left

          Control-QD     END            move to end of line
          Control-QS     HOME           move to start of line
          Control-QR                    jump to top line
          Control-QC                    jump to bottom line

          Control-E      up-arrow       move up one line
          Control-X      down-arrow     move down one line

          Control-G      DEL            delete character at cursor
          Control-T                     delete word right
          Control-QY                    delete line right
          Control-Y                     delete entire line

          Control-H      BACKSPACE      delete character left

          Control-V      INS            toggle INSERT/OVERWRITE

          Control-KR                    read text file
          Control-KW                    write text file

                         Table 2.3: Editor Editing Keys


     Although the editor has many basic editing keys, it doesn't have "cut
     and paste" features (yet).  You can, however, export the text to a
     file (press control-KW and enter a filename).  You can then use your
     favorite text editor to manipulate the data.

     Control-KR reads a file into the editor.  BE CAREFUL!  The file
     "overwrites" anything already there.


     2.11  The "Search and Filter" Window


     At some times while running CheckMate Plus, you'll want to search for
     specific items and disregard others.  At those times you'll be able to
     pop-up the "Search and Filter" window.





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            17






     You specify the items you want by setting up "equations".  The "search
     and filter" window has six lines, each with five fields:

     Variable         This first field is where you specify the particular
                      variable you're trying to match.  You can type the
                      variable in yourself, or press [alt-F10] (the local
                      menu key) or the middle mouse button to pop-up a menu
                      of variables.

     OP               In the second field, enter the "operator".  For
                      instance, if you want to exactly match the variable,
                      enter a "=" here.  This is also a menu field (and
                      [alt-F10] will pop-up a menu of choices).  Here are
                      the operators and what they do:

                                =    Exact Match
                                *    "Any" Match
                                >    Greater Than
                                <    Less Than
                                >=   Greater Than or Equal To
                                <=   Less Than or Equal To
                                <>   Not Equal To

                             Table 2.4: Search and Filter Operators


                      Most of the operators are self-explanatory, but the
                      "*" deserves more detail.  You'll use this primarily
                      when searching for text.  Suppose, for instance, you
                      want to find all checks written to "El Paso County".
                      You could use the "=" sign and search for "PayTo = El
                      Paso County", but you could also use the "*" and
                      search for "Payto * County".  In other words, when
                      you use "*" instead of "=", CheckMate Plus will match
                      any check with the word "county" in the payto field.
                      When you use "=", you must type in the text to match
                      EXACTLY.

                      Note that "Payto * County" will match any check
                      written to "El Paso County", but it will also match
                      checks written to "Denver County", "County Line
                      Barbecue", or any check with the word "county" in the
                      payto field.

     Match #1         How this field behaves depends on the "variable" you
                      choose (in the "Variable" field).  In most cases
                      you'll just enter text here.  Some variables,
                      however, require numbers, "YES/NO", or dates.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            18






     And/Or           You can "compound" the search for data with the
                      And/Or field.  As you may have guessed, you can enter
                      either "AND", "OR", or nothing in the field.

                      Here's how it works.  Suppose you want to find all
                      transactions between $100 and $200.  You'd enter:

                      Amount  >=  100.00  And  <=  200.00

                      See how you've specified a "range" of amounts?
                      Similarly, suppose you wanted to find all checks with
                      check numbers less than 500 and greater than 1000?
                      You'd enter:

                      Check Number  <  500  Or  >  1000

                      You can use these operators and specify "ranges" for
                      virtually any variable (including straight text).

                      If you leave the "And/Or" field blank, CheckMate Plus
                      will ignore the second half of the match operation.

     OP               This second OP field works like the first one above
                      (but it's for the second half of the operation).

     Match #2         This second "Match" field works like the first one
                      above (but it's for the second half of the
                      operation).

     You can enter up to six operations.  In order for a transaction to
     match, it must satisfy all of the lines you enter!

     Press [ESC] after you've entered your "filter definition" to return to
     your work.

     + IMPORTANT: Even though you've set the filter definition, it has no
     effect until you turn it "on".  The [alt-F] key toggles the filter
     state on and off.  When you see the word "FILT" on the top line of the
     screen, the filter definition is active.  You can toggle it on and off
     at any time!

     2.11.1  Saving Filter Definitions

     As you can see, you can get quite detailed in specifying match
     criteria.  If you've entered a complicated sequence (and want to save
     it to use again later), press [F10] (while you're in the "Search and
     Filter Window") and CheckMate Plus will store it on disk.  You'll have
     to enter a name for the "Filter Definition" so you can pick the one



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            19






     you want later.  You can have as many as forty definitions saved at
     one time.

     2.11.2  Retrieving Filter Definitions

     To retrieve a definition you've saved, enter the "Search and Filter
     Window" and press [F9].  CheckMate Plus will pop-up a menu of
     definitions previously saved.  Pick the one you want from the menu.

     2.11.3  Deleting Filter Definitions

     To delete a definition (from the disk), pick the one you want to get
     rid of (as described above).  Then press [F8].  CheckMate Plus will
     prompt you to confirm before actually deleting the definition.





































     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            20












                                   Chapter 3

                                    Accounts


     3.1  Types of Accounts


     CheckMate Plus focuses around checking accounts since practically
     everyone works through them (both home and business).  But to
     accurately track the flow of money, you'll also need to work with some
     other types of accounts.  CheckMate Plus defines three major
     categories of accounts: checking accounts, other detail accounts, and
     summary accounts.

     Checking accounts refer to your primary bank accounts (of course).
     The "other detail accounts" are your expenses, sources of revenue,
     liabilities (debt), assets other than checking accounts, and your
     equity.  (If you have an accounting background, you no doubt recognize
     these categories).  Summary accounts are actually "summations" of
     accounts (so you can group accounts into totals).  You won't be able
     to directly access summary accounts.

     In order to "nicely" divide the different account types, accountants
     have (over the years) devised a more or less "standard" numbering
     convention.  CheckMate Plus uses a form of that standard.

          1 - 19999 Assets (Cash, Property, anything you have of value)
          2 - 29999 Liabilities (Any debts that you owe)
          3 - 39999 Equity that you hold
          4 - 49999 Revenue (Pay, Interest, Sales, etc)
          5 - 59999 Expenses (Utilities, Food, Rent, etc)

     All detail accounts (checking accounts and other detail accounts) have
     five digit account numbers (such as 10000 or 50015).  Summary accounts
     have one to four digits and "sum together" the detail accounts that
     "fill out" the numbers.  For example, the summary account "100" would
     be the sum of accounts 10000 through 10099.  The summary account
     "1000" would only sum accounts 10000 through 10009, while the top
     level account ASSETS (account number 1) sums all asset accounts
     (10000-19999).




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            21






     When you run CheckMate Plus for the first time, it creates six special
     accounts.  The first five are the top level summary accounts:

          Account Number      Name

               1              Assets
               2              Liabilities
               3              Equity
               4              Revenue
               5              Expenses

                         Table 3.1: Top Level Accounts


     The last account CheckMate Plus automatically creates is a detail
     account.  CheckMate Plus uses it to make sure your books are always in
     balance.  We call this account "Non-Accounted for Funds" and its
     account number is 39999 (it is an EQUITY account).  As you make
     entries in CheckMate Plus, any time you do not "balance" a
     transaction, CheckMate Plus automatically assigns the funds to this
     account.  Remember, however, that you can always change the
     transactions later!

     CheckMate Plus won't let you modify or delete any of these six special
     accounts.

     3.1.1  Checking Accounts

     Checking accounts are assets (since they represent money you have).
     They are also detail accounts (which means you can directly transfer
     money to and from them).  Therefore, they can have account numbers
     between 10000 and 19999.

     CheckMate Plus treats checking accounts in a special way since you'll
     be doing much of your day to day business directly with them.

     CheckMate Plus builds in the capability to print checks (including
     addressing them for window envelopes), reconcile (with you bank
     statement), and track other types of transactions (such as deposits,
     services charges, and ATM transactions).

     3.1.2  Other Detail Accounts

     You'll also be able to setup accounts to track your other assets,
     liabilities, equity, revenue, and expenses.  These accounts are also
     "detail" accounts and will have five digit account numbers (as
     described above).




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            22






     These accounts are more general, however, and you won't have (or need)
     as many options as you have with with checking accounts.

     3.1.3  Summary Accounts

     You'll find "summary" accounts useful for assembling accounts together
     in logical groups.  You may, for example, want to list accounts 10000
     (Checking Account), 10001 (Savings Account), and 10008 (Petty Cash)
     under summary account 1000 (Cash Assets).

          1000      Cash Assets
            10000     Checking Account
            10001     Savings Account
            10008     Petty Cash

     You can direct CheckMate Plus to report the summaries (with customized
     reports) for a more general analysis of your financial condition.


     3.2  Entering Accounts


     This section of the User's Guide describes how to set up the different
     accounts available in CheckMate Plus.

     You define accounts by selecting "Enter New Accounts" from the
     "Accounts" menu.  You'll see a secondary menu asking whether you want
     to enter a checking account or an "other" account.

     If you select "other", you'll see a third menu from which you can
     select "summary" or other "detail" accounts.

     There are some subtle differences between the different types of
     accounts.

     All of the fields (in the "Enter Accounts Window") are explained
     below:

     Account Name     The name for the account (such as "United Bank",
                      "Mortgage", or "Utilities Expense".  This name will
                      appear on all account menus, account fields, and
                      reports.

     Opening Balance  Enter the "balance" of the account on the date you
                      want to start tracking it.  This may or may not be
                      its current balance.  It is a good idea to start an
                      accounting system on January 1st, so you may want to




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            23






                      "back enter" the data back to the first of the year
                      (or whenever your accounting year begins).

                      After you enter the opening balance, you must tell
                      CheckMate Plus on which date the balance applied.
                      Remember you may enter the date in any format you
                      choose.

     Next Check Number
                      This field applies to checking accounts only.  Enter
                      the next check number you'll enter in CheckMate Plus.

     Address on Checks
                      This field applies to checking accounts only.  Enter
                      "YES" if you want addresses to appear in the check
                      entry form (and on the checks you print).

     Account Number   CheckMate Plus fills this number in for you (but you
                      may change it if you wish).  This is the general
                      ledger account number for the account you're
                      entering.  Remember that detail accounts must always
                      have five digits.

                      You may press the plus or minus keys in this field to
                      increment or decrement the number.  You may not have
                      two accounts with the same number.

     Check Layout     This field applies to checking accounts only.  This
                      is a "menu field", so you may either type in a
                      defined check layout or press [alt-F10] to pop the
                      menu up.  CheckMate Plus comes with three predefined
                      layouts, but you may also enter your own (discussed
                      later in this User's Guide).

     Contra Account   This field applies to all account types except
                      checking.  Contra accounts are special in accounting.
                      If you don't know what contra accounts are, then
                      leave this field "NO" (the default).  If you do know,
                      the field is self explanatory.

     Budget Information
                      Press [F3] while entering the account to pop-up the
                      "Budget Setup Window".  Here you can enter budgeting
                      data that CheckMate Plus uses in preparing reports.
                      [ESC] returns you to the Account Entry Window.

                      The "quarters" in the budget window are based on the
                      start of your fiscal year (see "Fiscal Year Setup"



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            24






                      under the "Setup" menu).  You can, for instance,
                      choose to start your accounting year on October 1st
                      (rather than January 1st).  In this case, The 1st
                      Quarter would include October, November, and December
                      (instead of January, February, and March).

     After you set up the account, press [F10] to save the information and
     add the account to your Chart of Accounts.  The window will clear and
     you can enter more accounts (or press [ESC] to return to the Accounts
     Menu).


     3.3  Editing Accounts


     You can modify (or delete) accounts after you've entered them, but
     there are some restrictions.  Select "Edit Accounts" from the
     "Accounts" menu.  A secondary menu will appear which lists all
     existing accounts.  Pick the account you want to edit from the list.

     You can change any of the fields in the "Edit Accounts Window" (the
     same fields you saw while entering the account).  Press [F10] to save
     your changes, or press [F9] to delete the account.

     CheckMate Plus records account numbers in the transactions.  You can
     change an account's number, but CheckMate Plus has to search
     completely through the data file and update each applicable
     transaction.  This process can be time consuming (if you have a lot of
     transactions), but it is absolutely necessary.

     If you delete an account, CheckMate Plus will search the database and
     remove all references to the account.  This could very likely leave a
     number of transactions out of balance!  In this case, CheckMate Plus
     automatically assigns the debits and credits to the "Non-Accounted for
     Funds" account.

     Press [ESC] to return to the "Accounts" menu.


     3.4  Selecting Accounts


     CheckMate Plus is transaction oriented, and you'll spend most of your
     time entering transactions.

     You can select which account CheckMate Plus will treat as the control
     account by activating "Select Control Account" under the "Accounts"
     menu.  Pick the account you want to treat as the default for



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            25






     transaction entry/edit, reports, printing checks, etc.  The control
     account's name and number appear in the lower right hand corner of the
     screen.

     CheckMate Plus remembers your control account and will automatically
     select it the next time you run the program.  We anticipate you'll
     spend most of the time with your primary checking account as the
     default.

     + NOTE: Only "detail" accounts will appear on the select menu since
     you can't post transactions directly to summary accounts!

     You'll automatically return to the "Accounts" menu when you select
     your control account.  You can also press [ESC] to exit the "Select
     Control Account Menu" without changing the control account.


     3.5  Account Status


     When you select "Account Status" from the "Accounts" menu, CheckMate
     Plus will pop-up your Chart of Accounts.  Pick one from the menu and
     CheckMate Plus will display pertinent information about that account.

     The opening balance is the same as the one entered while defining or
     editing the account.  The current balance is "as of" the date of the
     last transaction entered for that account.

     If the account is a "summary" account, the numbers CheckMate Plus
     displays are "summations" of the accounts underneath it.  CheckMate
     Plus also shows the range of accounts beneath each summary account.




















     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            26












                                   Chapter 4

                                  Transactions


     4.1  Types of Transactions


     4.1.1  Transactions for Checking Accounts

     Checking accounts are special in CheckMate Plus.  Here is a list of
     transactions you can enter in checking accounts:

     Checks           Checks will most likely be the most common
                      transaction you'll enter.  As you'll see below,
                      CheckMate Plus includes a multitude of data fields to
                      completely describe your checks.  Each check is a
                      credit (in accounting terms) to your checking account
                      (which is an ASSET account).

     Withdrawals      Withdrawals (other than checks or ATM withdrawals)
                      will be rare in checking accounts, but we have
                      included them for completeness.  Withdrawals are
                      credits to checking accounts.

     Deposits         Deposits are money you put in the checking account.
                      (CheckMate Plus has other transaction types you can
                      use for bank credits, such as interest earned).  Each
                      deposit is a debit to your account.

     Bank Debit       A "bank debit" is money the bank takes from your
                      account (a service charge, for instance).  If you
                      have any accounting background, you'll realize that a
                      bank debit is actually a credit to your checking
                      account (which is an ASSET account).  We call it a
                      "bank debit" because that is usually what the bank
                      calls it on your statement.

     Bank Credit      A "bank credit" (which is actually a debit to your
                      checking account) is money the bank puts into your
                      account (such as interest earned).




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            27






     ATM Deposit      An "ATM deposit" is simply a deposit you make at an
                      automatic teller machine (ATM).  There is nothing
                      special about this type of deposit, we just added the
                      "ATM" to the name since ATMs have become so common.
                      An ATM deposit is a debit to your checking account.

     ATM Withdrawal   Like the ATM deposit described above, an "ATM
                      withdrawal" is just a withdrawal made at an automatic
                      teller machine.  An ATM withdrawal is a credit to
                      your checking account.

     4.1.2  Transactions for Other Accounts

     You can directly post transactions to other detail accounts, but you
     have (and need) only two options (either DEBIT or CREDIT).

     Debits           A debit increases an ASSET or EXPENSE account and
                      decreases LIABILITY, EQUITY, or REVENUE accounts.
                      (This is standard accounting practice). CheckMate
                      Plus helps you remember when to use debits (vs
                      credits) with helpful menu descriptions as you make
                      entries.

     Credits          As you might expect, credits increase LIABILITY,
                      EQUITY, and REVENUE accounts and decrease ASSET and
                      EXPENSE accounts.  Once again, CheckMate Plus helps
                      you keep debits and credits straight with helpful
                      menus.

     + NOTE: There is an exception the the above rules.  Although ASSETS
     are ordinarily debit accounts (and debits INCREASE them), you can have
     a CONTRA ASSET account, which, while still an ASSET, is a CREDIT
     account.  You may have contra accounts in any of the account
     categories except checking.  Contra accounts are a more advanced
     accounting concept, and most of you will probably not need them.  We
     have included the capability for those that do.


     4.2  Entering Transactions


     The first menu on the menu bar is the "Transactions" menu (since
     you'll most likely spend much of your time in CheckMate Plus entering
     transactions).  From the "Transactions" menu, select "Enter
     Transactions" to begin transaction entry.

     A menu with transaction choices will appear.  Checking accounts have
     seven choices (check, withdrawal, deposit, bank debit, bank credit,



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            28






     ATM deposit, and ATM withdrawal).  All other accounts will have two
     choices (debit or credit).

     We'll concentrate on entering checks since they are the most complete.
     The other transaction types are similar, but have fewer data fields.

     4.2.1  Primary Data

     The first thing you'll see when you select "Check" from the
     "transaction type" menu is the primary data entry screen.

     Check Number     CheckMate Plus automatically assigns each check with
                      the "next check number".  You can override CheckMate
                      Plus' choice by pressing the up-arrow key (to move up
                      to the check number).  Pressing the plus and minus
                      keys will increment and decrement the check number
                      respectively.

     Date             The date of the transaction.  The default is the
                      system (DOS) date.  Remember that you can press the
                      plus and minus keys to increment or decrement the
                      date (or you can enter it free format).

     Amount           The next field is the "amount" field (which, of
                      course, is the amount of the check).  After you enter
                      the amount, the "spelled out amount" will appear and
                      the current account balance will update.

     TO               The "TO" field is who you're writing the check for
                      (the Payee).

     Address          If you told CheckMate Plus that you wanted to print
                      addresses on the checks (while you were defining the
                      account), you'll have three lines to enter the
                      Payee's address under the Payee's name.

     For              This is the "memo" or "for" line on the check.  You
                      can enter a short note here.

     Vendor Acct #    Many vendors want you to write your account number on
                      the checks you send them so they can properly credit
                      your account.  That's what this field is for.

     Comments         You have 67 characters to enter miscellaneous
                      comments about the check in the "comments" field.

     Tax Ded          This is a YES/NO flag you can use to designate checks
                      as tax deductible.  Marking checks in this way makes



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            29






                      it easy to generate a report of tax deductions at
                      year's end.

     Marked           Like the "Tax Ded" flag, you can "mark" a check with
                      this YES/NO flag.  This is a general purpose field,
                      that is, you can use it for whatever you want.

     Printed          If you're using CheckMate Plus to print checks,
                      CheckMate Plus will mark this field for you when you
                      print the check.  If you mix writing checks by hand
                      and printing them, be sure and mark this field for
                      the checks you write out (otherwise CheckMate Plus
                      will want to print them).  If you're not printing any
                      checks, you don't need to bother with this field.

     Cleared          CheckMate Plus marks this field during the
                      reconciliation process.  Be careful if you mark this
                      field yourself, since the "Date Cleared" should match
                      the statement date on which the check cleared.

     Date Cleared     If the transaction has cleared, this field holds the
                      statement date (from the bank statement that the
                      check appeared on).  CheckMate Plus maintains this
                      date so it can completely re-create a statement at
                      any time.  You should never have to enter this date
                      manually as CheckMate Plus enters it during the
                      reconciliation process.

     4.2.2  Splitting the Transaction

     The transaction itself is only half of the story.  CheckMate Plus lets
     you "split" the transaction twelve ways to account for the flow of
     money.  Press [F3] while in the "primary data" screen and the "split
     transaction" window will appear.

     You'll notice that CheckMate Plus fills in the first line of the
     transaction for you (in fact, you can't edit the first line in the
     "split" window!).  CheckMate Plus knows whether to enter a debit or a
     credit and positions the cursor on the next line in the "account
     number" field.

     Acct#            Enter an account's number here.  If you can't
                      remember the number of the account you want, press
                      the local menu key ([alt-F10]) or press the middle
                      button on the mouse to pop-up a pick list.  You can
                      also use the plus and minus keys to scroll through
                      the numbers and search for the right account.  The




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            30






                      account's name will automatically appear to the right
                      of the number.

     Description      The "description" field is for you to enter notes to
                      yourself (so that the ledger transaction and activity
                      reports will make sense to you later).  CheckMate
                      Plus fills the first description in for you (a check
                      number or the "Memo" from other types of
                      transactions).

                      + TIMESAVER: Many times the "description" that you
                      want to enter will be the the payee's name (that you
                      entered on the check).  Press [F3] while in any
                      "description" field and CheckMate Plus will "paste"
                      the payee's name directly in.

     Debit/Credit     Enter an appropriate debit or credit in the next two
                      fields.  You can have either a debit or credit (but
                      not both on the same line).

     CheckMate Plus totals the transactions as you enter the amounts.  When
     the transaction is in "balance" (i.e. when debits=credits"), the
     "Unaccounted For" field will be zero.

     + TIMESAVER: At ANY time while you're "splitting" the transaction, you
     can "force" the transaction to "balance" by pressing [ PgDn].  When
     you do this, CheckMate Plus will adjust the debit (or credit) on the
     line the cursor is on to make the transaction balance.  You'll find
     this key most useful while entering the "last" line of a transaction.

     You can return to the primary data entry screen by pressing [ESC].

     4.2.3  Check Stubs

     While entering checks, you can press [F4] to pop-up the "Stub" window.
     This is a text "pad", and you can use CheckMate Plus' built in editor
     to type in text that you can print on check stubs later.  (See "Things
     That You Should Know", chapter 2 for information on using the editor).

     The "stub" pad has 20 lines and 130 columns.

     + NOTE: The "stub" is available for all transactions, not just for
     checks.  You can't print them for other transaction types, but you can
     use them for additional notes.







     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            31






     4.2.4  Attaching Notes

     If you need space for additional comments or notes, press [alt-F4] to
     pop-up the "Notes" window.  Like the check stub, this window is a text
     "pad" and you can use CheckMate Plus' built in editor to enter your
     notes.

     The "notes" pad has 10 lines and 70 columns.

     4.2.5  Saving the Transaction

     Once you've entered the transaction, press [F10] to save it and update
     all the proper account balances.  You may press [ESC] to abort saving.
     (CheckMate Plus will prompt you to confirm as this will cause you to
     lose the data you've entered).

     4.2.6  Picking from the Menu

     You've probably noticed that many of the checks you write from month
     to month "repeat".  For instance, you probably write either a mortgage
     payment or a rent check each month, as well as utilities, telephone,
     newspaper, etc.

     CheckMate Plus lets you define checks (and other transactions) and add
     them to a menu.  While you're entering checks you can pop this menu up
     with [alt-F2] and "pick" the transaction you want.  This is a
     tremendous timesaver!

     You can define as much or as little of the transaction as you like,
     and fill in the rest as you actually enter the check.  If the amount
     of the check changes each time you write it (such as your utility
     bill), you can even have CheckMate Plus "jump" to the amount field
     after you pick the transaction from the menu!

     The menu may have more entries than can show on the screen at one
     time.  Use the arrow keys, [PgUp], [PgDn], or the mouse to scroll
     through the choices.

     4.2.7  Utilities

     While you're entering transactions, you can press [F2] at any time to
     pop-up the "Utilities" menu.  The options available on the menu will
     depend upon the type of transaction you're entering.  Here are the
     choices you may see:

     Add Account      You may find you want to add accounts while
                      "splitting" the transaction.  From the "Utilities"
                      menu, select "Add Account" and you'll be able to add



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            32






                      as many accounts as you wish.  [ESC] returns you to
                      the transaction you're entering.

     Edit Transactions
                      If you want to "edit" old transactions while you're
                      entering a new one, select this option from the
                      "Utilities" menu.

     Memorize         Select "Memorize" from the "Utilities" menu if you
                      want to add this transaction to the pop-up menu (so
                      you can repeat it later) or if you want to add it to
                      the menu or date activated list.

     Stub Layout      This option applies only to checks, and will
                      determine how to print the stub while printing the
                      check.  When you select this option, another menu
                      appears.

                      Automatic Select

                      This is the default stub layout.  In the automatic
                      mode, CheckMate Plus determines whether to print the
                      "Accounts Payable" stub (which is a list of accounts
                      that you've split the check across) or the custom
                      stub (which you enter by pressing [F4]).  CheckMate
                      Plus looks at the custom stub first.  If the first
                      line of the stub is blank, it prints the automatic
                      stub.  Otherwise it will print the custom stub.

                      No Stub

                      If you choose "No Stub", CheckMate Plus will not
                      print a stub when you print the check (even if the
                      check layout calls for one).  If necessary, CheckMate
                      Plus will print blank lines on the stub (to keep the
                      check alignment correct).

                      Custom Stub

                      This option forces CheckMate Plus to print the custom
                      stub (which you enter when you press [F4] ) even if
                      it is empty (in which case CheckMate Plus will print
                      blank lines).

                      Accounts Payable

                      If you choose this option, CheckMate Plus will always
                      print the "Accounts Payable" stub even if the custom



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            33






                      stub is filled in.  The accounts payable stub looks a
                      lot like the "split transaction" screen (that is, it
                      is a list of the accounts that you're "splitting" the
                      check across).

     Print the Check  You can print the check you're entering as you enter
                      it.  Just select "Print Check" from the "Utilities"
                      menu.  Be sure that your check is in the printer and
                      ready before you select "Print Check", however, since
                      CheckMate Plus will print the check immediately.


     Rebuild Account  This option will only appear on the menu if the
                      control account needs to be "rebuilt" to update the
                      running balances.


     4.3  Editing Transactions


     Editing transactions is much like entering transactions, but there are
     some substantial differences.  This section documents those
     differences.

     4.3.1  Moving Through the Data

     When you select "Edit Transactions" from the "Transactions" menu,
     you'll enter the "Edit Transactions Window".  The transaction you see
     will depend on two things:

         o  The current control account

         o  Whether or not the "Filter Flag" is set

     CheckMate Plus only displays transactions for the control  account,
     and starts with the last transaction entered.  If the "filter flag" is
     set, then the transactions displayed must also match the "search and
     filter" pattern you've set up (provided that the filter flag is
     active).  [alt-F] toggles the filter flag.  While the filter is
     active, the word "FILT" appears on the "top line" of the screen.

     While you're editing, you can use the following keys to move through
     the data file:

     [F7]             This key moves backwards one transaction.  If the
                      filter flag is set, then CheckMate Plus keeps moving
                      backward until a match is found.




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            34






                      + SPECIAL NOTE: CheckMate Plus has a special feature
                      we call "field integrity".  This means that you'll
                      stay on the same field as you move through the
                      database.  For instance, if you're on the "check
                      number" field and press [F7], CheckMate Plus will
                      skip over any transactions that don't have a check
                      number (such as deposits or withdrawals).

     [F8]             This key moves forward one transaction.  The action
                      is the same as the [F7] key discussed above.

     [F5]             This key "jumps" to the first transaction of the
                      control account.  If the filter flag is set, it
                      searches for the first "matching" transaction.  Field
                      integrity is not preserved when you use this key.

     [F6]             This key "jumps" to the last transaction of the
                      control account.  If the filter flag is set, it
                      searches for the last "matching" transaction.  Field
                      integrity is not preserved when you use this key.

     [alt-J]          This is a special search key.  When you press [alt-J]
                      you'll see a window appear where you may enter a
                      "date to jump to".  Enter a date and press [CR].
                      CheckMate Plus will jump to that date (or as close as
                      it can get).  The cursor jumps to the date field
                      (field integrity is not preservered), and the
                      transaction does not have to match the "search and
                      filter" pattern!

     CheckMate Plus checks to see if the current transaction has been
     modified before it will move forward or backward through the file.  If
     you've made any changes, CheckMate Plus prompts you to save your
     changes before proceeding.

     4.3.2  Primary Data

     There is very little difference between editing a transaction and
     entering a transaction (discussed above).  Those changes are
     documented here:

     Balance          While entering transactions, the balance CheckMate
                      Plus shows is the account's current balance.  While
                      editing, CheckMate Plus shows the account's running
                      balance (that is, the balance of the account when the
                      transaction was originally entered).





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            35






                      It's not an easy thing to keep this running balance
                      correct.  If you change the amount or date of a
                      transaction (or any amounts or accounts in the
                      transactions "split" window), you may disturb the
                      accuracy of the running balance.  When this happens,
                      CheckMate Plus will make the balance "blink" while
                      you're editing.  As you exit the editing function,
                      CheckMate Plus will ask if you want to "rebuild" the
                      account (and fix the "blinking").  If you choose not
                      to rebuild it, CheckMate Plus will continually ask
                      over and over (at strategic times in the program).

                      Remember, you may also change other accounts (in the
                      split window).  If CheckMate Plus determines that one
                      of these is out of balance, it will warn you when you
                      next "select" that account as the control account
                      (and ask you if you want to rebuild it).  Rebuilding
                      any account fixes all of them.

     4.3.3  Splitting the Transaction

     Press [F3] to "split" the transaction.

     The biggest difference between "editing" and "entering" in the split
     window is that you'll be restricted somewhat while "editing".  As when
     entering, you can't edit the first line of the transaction (you can do
     this in the "primary data" window).  Also, you won't be able to change
     the Account Number of the account that "owns" the transaction.  (The
     account that "owns" a transaction is the account that was the control
     account when you entered the transaction).

     4.3.4  Check Stubs

     Press [F4] to edit the "stub".

     Remember that each transaction has only one stub (regardless of how
     many accounts you've split the transaction across).  So if you edit
     the stub (and the control account doesn't "own" the transaction),
     you'll see the stub that you originally entered.  Any changes you make
     will appear in the other accounts as well.

     4.3.5  Attaching Notes

     Press [alt-F4] to edit the "notes".

     Like the "stub" (discussed above), each transaction has only one note
     pad.  Any changes you make to the note pad will appear for all the
     accounts in the transaction.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            36






     4.3.6  Saving Your Changes

     After you've made your changes, press [F10] to save them (or [ESC] to
     abort).  If you try to abort changes (with [ESC] or by "moving" to
     another transaction), CheckMate Plus will ask you to confirm your
     intentions before you lose your edits.

     4.3.7  Deleting the Transaction

     You can delete a transaction by pressing [F9].  CheckMate Plus will
     prompt you to confirm before actually deleting the transaction.

     You can delete a transaction even if the current control account
     doesn't "own" the transaction.

     The transaction will "disappear" from ALL of the accounts in the
     transaction, and all of the accounts will need to be rebuilt.  When
     you press [ESC] to exit the edit mode, CheckMate Plus will ask you if
     you want to "rebuild".  CheckMate Plus rebuilds all accounts at once,
     so you won't have to rebuild each account individually.  We don't do
     it automatically since you may be doing a lot of editing and each
     rebuild can take several minutes (if you have a very large data file).

     YOU CAN'T RECOVER A TRANSACTION AFTER DELETING IT!

     4.3.8  Picking from the Menu

     You can "pick from the menu" by pressing [alt-F2] while editing any
     transaction.  Bear in mind, however, that picking a menu transaction
     will completely replace the current transaction, including the "split"
     accounts!

     Remember that you can press [ESC] to abort your edits (as long as you
     haven't pressed [F10]) if you change your mind about the menu choice.

     4.3.9  Utilities

     While you're editing transactions, you can press [F2] to pop-up the
     "Utilities" menu.  The options available on the menu depend upon the
     type of transaction you're editing, and whether or not you need to
     "rebuild" the control account.

     Add Account      You can add accounts while editing by selecting this
                      option from the "Utilities" menu.







     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            37






     "Search and Filter"
                      Select this option to define the "search and filter"
                      pattern you want to match (as you move through the
                      database).

     Memorize         You can add transactions to the menu or "date
                      activated" list by "memorizing" the transaction.
                      Select this option from the "Utilities" menu and
                      follow the menus.

     Stub Layout      (Checks only).  See "Entering Transactions" for a
                      complete description of the "stub layouts" available
                      to you.

     Print the Check  (Checks only).  Pick this option to immediately print
                      the check.  May sure that your check is in the
                      printer and ready before you select this option!

     Rebuild Account  This option will only appear on the menu if the
                      control account needs to be "rebuilt" to update the
                      running balances.


     4.4  Automatic Transactions


     This section discusses how to enter and edit "automatic" transactions
     (transactions that appear on the menu or date activated transactions).

     4.4.1  On the Menu

     Automatic transactions that are "on the menu" are those that appear
     when you press [alt-F2] while entering or editing transactions.

     4.4.1.1  Defining Menu Transactions

      There are two ways to add a transaction "to the menu".  One method is
     to "memorize" transactions as you enter or edit them (see the above
     sections about the "Utilities" menu).  The other way is to select
     "Enter Auto Transactions" from the "Transactions" menu.  You'll see
     another menu appear asking whether you want to add "menu" transactions
     or "date activated" transactions.  Select "menu" (since we are
     defining "menu" transactions here).

     Next you'll see a familiar menu (asking for a transaction "type").
     These are the same options you have while entering "regular"
     transactions.




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            38






     The "Enter Automatic Transactions" form is only slightly different
     than the "Enter Transactions" form:

     Check Number     There is no field to enter a check number, since
                      CheckMate Plus will assign one when you pick this
                      transaction off the menu.

     Date             You can't enter a date, since you'll assign a date
                      when you select the transaction.

     Amount           This is a special field for "automatic transactions".

                      + TIMESAVER: If the amount for this transaction will
                      routinely change (your utilities bill, for example),
                      leave the amount zero and CheckMate Plus will
                      automatically jump to the amount field when you
                      select this transaction from the menu!

     Marked           There is no "marked flag" for automatic transactions.

     Printed          There is no "printed flag" for automatic
                      transactions.

     Cleared          There is no "cleared flag" for automatic
                      transactions.

     Cleared Date     You can't enter a cleared date, since "automatic
                      transactions" can't "clear" until you pick them from
                      the menu.

     Name             At the bottom of the primary data entry screen, you
                      can (and must) enter a "Name" for this automatic
                      transaction.  This Name will appear on the menu in
                      alphabetical order.  You may not have duplicate
                      names!

                      Important!  Each "automatic transaction" is specific
                      to the control account you have selected when you
                      enter it.  Each "automatic transaction" is also
                      specific to the "transaction type" you're entering.
                      You can have duplicate names as long as the
                      duplicates are not in the same account and the same
                      transaction type!

                      This means, however, that an "automatic transaction"
                      you put on the menu for one account WILL NOT appear
                      on the menu for any other account.




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            39






                      + SPECIAL NOTE:  CheckMate Plus orders the "names"
                      alphabetically, but the names are CASE SENSITIVE.
                      This means that "Tom" will appear BEFORE "anna"
                      (since an upper-case "T" is alphabetically before a
                      lower-case "a").  "Anna", however, will come before
                      "Tom" (as long as "Anna" begins with a capital "A").

     CheckMate Plus also displays a highlighted bar at the bottom of the
     screen to remind you that you're entering an "automatic transaction"
     (versus a regular one).

     Remember you can also predefine the "split" (press [F3]), the "stub"
     (press [F4]), and the "notes" (press [alt-F4]).

     + TIMESAVER: You can "pop the menu up" while entering "automatic
     transactions" (just as you can while entering "regular" transactions).
     Just press [alt-F2].  This can save you time if you're entering
     multiple (but similar) automatic transactions.

     The "Utilities" menu is available while entering "automatic
     transactions".  Press [F2] to pop it up.

     Press [F10] to save the automatic transaction after you've finished
     entering your data.  It will now appear "on the menu" for this account
     and transaction type.  Press [ESC] to abort saving.

     4.4.1.2  Editing Menu Transactions

     If you want to "edit" your menu transactions, select "Edit Auto
     Transactions" from the "Transactions" menu, and then select "menu"
     from the next menu that pops up.

     CheckMate Plus will take you to the first "menu transaction" that
     you've defined for this account.  Just as while editing "regular"
     transactions, you have the following "movement" keys available to you:

     [F7]             This key moves backwards one transaction.

     [F8]             This key moves forward one transaction.

     [F5]             This key "jumps" to the first automatic transaction.

     [F6]             This key "jumps" to the last automatic transaction.

     Since "menu transactions" don't have "dates" associated with them,
     CheckMate Plus orders them alphabetically by name.  CheckMate Plus
     also orders them by transaction type.  This means that all checks will
     appear first, followed by withdrawals, deposits, etc.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            40






     You can edit the menu transaction just as you do "regular"
     transactions.  The "stub", "notes", and "split" windows are all
     available.  You can also pop-up the "menu" with the [alt-F2] key, and
     the "Utilities" with the [F2] key.

     Press [F10] to save your changes, or [ESC] to abort.  You may delete
     the transaction altogether by pressing [F9].  If you've made changes
     and attempt to abort or move to another transaction (without saving
     the changes), CheckMate Plus will prompt you to confirm before letting
     you loose your work.

     4.4.2  Date Activated Transactions

     "Date Activated" Transactions are transactions you "program" to to
     notify you when they need to be entered.  This is really a slick
     feature, and one that we think you will greatly appreciate.

     CheckMate Plus will NOT activate ANY transaction unless you want it
     to!  "Date activated" transactions simply "remind" you when they're
     due and help you enter the data.  They will not become "real
     transactions" without your confirmation.

     You have several options while programming these entries.  Obviously,
     you can enter a "date" on which the transaction will become "active"
     (that is, when it's due).  But you can also set the transaction to
     "repeat" after you enter it.

     For instance, suppose you set up a "date activated transaction" to
     remind you to pay your rent on June 26th.  Since you pay rent every
     month, you can tell CheckMate Plus to automatically set the rent
     payment to recur on July 26th (and then August 26th, September 26th,
     etc).  This would be "monthly" repeat.

     CheckMate Plus has six "repeat options".  They are:

         o  Never (Use once, and then ERASE the automatic transaction)

         o  Monthly (Repeat on the same date every month)

         o  Weekly (Repeat on the day every week)

         o  Bi-Weekly (Repeat on the same day every two weeks)

         o  Quarterly (Repeat on the same date every three months)

         o  Yearly (Repeat on the same date every year)





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            41






     Repeat options have two basic types: "day" repeats (weekly and bi-
     weekly) and "date" repeats (monthly, quarterly, and yearly).  "Day"
     repeats are "day" sensitive (Monday, Tuesday, etc) while "date"
     repeats are day of the month sensitive (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc).

     + NOTE: Remember that some months have more "days" than others!  If
     you want CheckMate Plus to remind you of a transaction on the last day
     of each month, be sure and enter "31st" even if the first month you
     enter doesn't have 31 days!  In other words, it is perfectly legal to
     enter "Feb 31, 1990" as the date to activate a transaction.  CheckMate
     Plus knows that February really doesn't have 31 days, and will
     "remind" you of this entry on the 28th.  After you actually enter the
     transaction at the end of February, CheckMate Plus will update the
     activation date to "Mar 31, 1990".

     "Date activated transactions" are similar to "menu transactions".  You
     have the same options while entering or editing them.  Remember that
     if the "amount" changes from entry to entry, leave that field "zero"
     and CheckMate Plus will jump to it automatically (so you can enter the
     actual amount).

     + TIP:  If you have a transaction that occurs "semi-monthly", make TWO
     monthly entries.  For instance, members of the Armed Forces are paid
     twice a month (on the 1st and 15th).  This is NOT the same as "bi-
     weekly".  To make this work, enter TWO monthly transactions, the first
     one to activate on the 1st and the second one on the 15th.

     4.4.2.1  Defining Date Transactions

     Just as with "menu transactions", there are two ways to enter a "date
     activated transaction".  One method is to "memorize" transactions as
     you enter or edit them (see the above sections about the "Utilities"
     menu).  The other way is to select "Enter Auto Transactions" from the
     "Transactions" menu.  You'll see another menu appear asking whether
     you want to add "menu" transactions or "date activated" transactions.
     Select "date activated".

     Next you'll see a familiar menu (asking for a transaction "type").
     These are the same options you have while entering "regular"
     transactions.

     The "Enter Automatic Transactions" form is only slightly different
     than the "Enter Transactions" form:

     Check Number     There is no field to enter a check number, since
                      CheckMate Plus will assign one as you pick this
                      transaction off the menu.




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            42






     Date             You can't enter a date, since the date will depend
                      upon when you elect to activate the transaction.

     Amount           This is a special field for "automatic transactions".

                      + TIMESAVER: If the amount for this transaction will
                      routinely change (your utilities bill, for example),
                      leave the amount zero and CheckMate Plus will
                      automatically jump to the amount field when you
                      select this transaction from the menu!

     Marked           There is no "marked flag" for automatic transactions.

     Printed          There is no "printed flag" for automatic
                      transactions.

     Cleared          There is no "cleared flag" for automatic
                      transactions.

     Cleared Date     You can't enter a cleared date, since "automatic
                      transactions" can't "clear" until you activate them.

     Repeat           At the bottom of the primary data entry screen, you
                      can enter a "repeat option".  The different options
                      are discussed above.

                      This is a menu field.  You can type the option in, or
                      press [alt-F10] (or the middle button on the mouse)
                      to pop the menu up.

                      Important!  Each "automatic transaction" is specific
                      to the control account you have selected when you
                      enter it.  This means a "date activated" transaction
                      will only activate for the account that is the
                      control account when you enter it.

     CheckMate Plus also displays a highlighted bar at the bottom of the
     screen to remind you that you're entering an "automatic transaction"
     (versus a regular one).

     Remember you can also predefine the "split" (press [F3]), the "stub"
     (press [F4]), and the "notes" (press [alt-F4]).

     + TIMESAVER: You can "pop the menu up" while entering "automatic
     transactions" (just as you can while entering "regular" transactions).
     Just press [alt-F2].  This can save you time if you're entering
     multiple (but similar) automatic transactions.




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            43






     The "Utilities" menu is available while entering "automatic
     transactions".  Press [F2] to pop it up.

     Press [F10] to save the automatic transaction after you've finished
     entering your data.  CheckMate Plus will now "remind" you when it is
     due.  Press [ ESC] to abort saving the automatic transaction.

     4.4.2.2  Editing Date Transactions

     If you want to "edit" your date activated transactions, select "Edit
     Auto Transactions" from the "Transactions" menu, and then select "date
     activated" from the next menu that pops up.

     CheckMate Plus will take you to the first "date activated transaction"
     that is scheduled to activate for the control account.  Enteries are
     sorted first by transaction type (check, deposit, etc) and then by
     "activation date", so the first transaction you see may not actually
     be the next one to activate. Just as while editing "regular"
     transactions, you have the following "movement" keys available to you:

     [F7]             This key moves backwards one transaction.

     [F8]             This key moves forward one transaction.

     [F5]             This key "jumps" to the first automatic transaction.

     [F6]             This key "jumps" to the last automatic transaction.

     You can edit the menu transaction just as you do "regular"
     transactions.  The "stub", "notes", and "split" windows are all
     available.  You can also pop-up the "menu" with the [alt-F2] key, and
     the "Utilities" with the [F2] key.

     Press [F10] to save your changes, or [ESC] to abort.  You may delete
     the transaction altogether by pressing [F9].  If you've made changes
     and attempt to abort or move to another transaction (without saving
     the changes), CheckMate Plus will prompt you to confirm before letting
     you loose your work.

     4.4.2.3  Automatic "Reminder"

      CheckMate Plus automatically searches for due (and overdue)
     transactions each time you start the program.  It will pop up the
     "Reminder Window" if it finds any.  The "Reminder Window" lists the
     account with transactions due (or overdue) and asks you whether or not
     you want to process the transactions on the spot.  Just answer YES or
     NO.




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            44






     A separate "Reminder Window" will appear for each account that needs
     processing.

     If you select "YES", CheckMate Plus will run the date activated
     "script".  You'll see each due transaction appear one at a time.  You
     may modify them if you wish.  Press [F10] to save each transaction
     (and CheckMate Plus will update its "activation date"), [F7] to "skip"
     a transaction (if you do this, CheckMate Plus will NOT update its
     "activation date"), or [ESC] to stop running the script.

     Once you've gone through all of the due transactions (or have pressed
     [ ESC]), CheckMate Plus will automatically return to the main menu.

     If you opt NOT to process the transactions, CheckMate Plus will
     continue to "remind" you every time you run the program until you
     either process the transactions, change their activation date, or
     delete them (see "Editing Date Transactions" above).

     4.4.2.4  "AUTOEXEC.BAT" Reminder

      Registered copies of CheckMate Plus come with a small "command line"
     utility called "REMINDER.EXE".  REMINDER scans your CheckMate Plus
     index file (CMPLUS.IX) looking for any transactions that are due and
     will display a simple screen message (and pause) if it finds any.

     If you place REMINDER in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file, it will remind you
     when you have transactions due every time you turn your computer on
     (without having to run CheckMate Plus).

     Remember, this utility comes on a bonus disk when you REGISTER your
     copy of CheckMate Plus!

     4.4.3  Running Scripts

     You can run the "menu" and "date activated" transactions as "scripts".
     Scripts "move through the list of entries" one by one.  You may modify
     each transaction as you go.  Press [F10] to save the transaction,
     [F7] to "skip" this transaction, or [ESC] to stop running the script.

     Once you've gone through all of the due transactions (or have pressed
     [ ESC]), CheckMate Plus will automatically return you to the
     "Transactions" menu.

     4.4.3.1  Menu Script

     Select "Run Automatic Scripts" from the "Transactions" menu, and then
     select "menu".  CheckMate Plus will step you through all of the menu
     transactions for the control account.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            45






     4.4.3.2  Date Script

     Select "Run Automatic Scripts" from the "Transactions" menu, and then
     select "date activated".  CheckMate Plus will step you through all of
     the "date activated" transactions that are due (or overdue) for the
     control account.

     If you press [F10] to save the transaction, CheckMate Plus will update
     its "activation date" (see "Date Activated" transactions above.


     4.5  The Browse Window


     CheckMate Plus has a "browse" feature which lets you view your
     transactions in a "check ledger" format (one line per transaction).
     Select "Browse Transactions" from the "Browse" window.

     4.5.0.1  Activating the Browse Window

     Before you can start browsing, CheckMate Plus presents you with a
     "Browse Setup Window".  You can do two things in this window: set
     browse dates and the "search and filter" pattern.

     Browse Dates     You can enter the "starting" and "ending" browse
                      dates before browsing.  CheckMate Plus sets up the
                      browse window by searching through the database for
                      "matches" (see below).  Setting the date boundaries
                      can significantly reduce the file accesses that
                      CheckMate Plus has to make and speed things up
                      significantly.

                      If you leave the dates blank, CheckMate Plus will
                      search the entire file.

     Search and Filter
                      Press [F2] in the "Browse Setup Window" to activate
                      the "search and filter" window.  You can enter a
                      pattern here (every transaction the browser presents
                      must match this pattern).  Remember that the "search
                      and filter" pattern is not active unless you turn it
                      on ([alt-F] toggles the "filter flag").  While
                      the filter is active, the word "FILT" appears on the
                      "top line" of the screen.

     Once you've set up for the browse, press [F10].  CheckMate Plus will
     search the database and then open the "Browse Window".




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            46






     The "Browse Window" lists each transaction on a single line.  The
     following keys will move you around in the window:

     Up Arrow         Move up one transaction.

     Down Arrow       Move down one transaction.

     [PgUp]           Move up on screen.

     [PgDn]           Move down one screen.

     [Home]           Move to first transaction.

     [End]            Move to last transaction.

     The mouse will also move you through the transaction list.

     You can press the [SPACE BAR] while browsing to "mark" transactions.
     CheckMate Plus actually sets the "marked" flag to YES when you do
     this.  This is useful if you want to mark transactions for a report
     (using the "search and filter" to only print "marked" transactions).

     If you press [ESC] in the "Browse Window" CheckMate Plus will return
     you to the "Transactions" menu.

     4.5.0.2  Editing while Browsing

     At any time while you're browsing, you can press [CR] (or the left
     button on the mouse) to edit the currently highlighted transaction.
     The "Edit Transaction Window" will appear.  Press [ESC] to return to
     the browser.


     4.6  Closing Transactions


     CheckMate Plus lets you maintain active transactions indefinitely.
     Over time, however, CheckMate Plus' performance will decrease as it
     constantly has to search an ever larger database.

     As the necessity to maintain "old data" decreases (the data may be
     several years old, you may want to "close" the older transactions.

     Select "Close Transactions" from the "Transactions" menu to pop-up the
     "Close Transactions Window".

     You have a single option here (the PURGE date).  Enter a date here and
     press [F10].  Since you can't reverse this procedure, CheckMate Plus



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            47






     won't accept a default date (you must enter a valid date) and will
     prompt you to confirm your intentions before proceeding.

     The purge will erase all transactions prior to the "purge date".
     CheckMate Plus then updates the opening balance and opening dates of
     all accounts.  If you have "closing" accounts (for REVENUE and
     EXPENSES) specified (see "Fiscal Year Information" in chapter 13),
     CheckMate Plus will transfer all REVENUE and EXPENSE balances to them
     as it purges the transactions.

     This procedure affects ALL accounts, not just the control account!  It
     would be a good idea to make a backup before you proceed!







































     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            48












                                   Chapter 5

                                    Reports


     CheckMate Plus has many reports and many options for each report.
     Some of these options (such as margins, page size, printer setups,
     etc) are common for all and are discussed in the next chapter, "Report
     Printing Options".

     In this chapter, we'll describe most of the general purpose reports
     you can print and zero in on their unique options.


     5.1  The Transaction Report


     The "Transaction Report" is account specific.  This is what you'd call
     your checkbook ledger (for checking accounts... you can print this
     report for other accounts as well).

     This report acts on the control account only.  Select the account you
     want to report on (from the "Accounts" menu) before printing.

     Select "Transaction" from the "Reports" menu.  CheckMate Plus will
     present another menu with some "date range" options.

     Month            Select "Month" to limit the report to a specific
                      month and year.  You can specify a particular month
                      before printing.

     Year             This option will print all transactions within an
                      accounting (or fiscal) year.  You set the fiscal year
                      in the "Fiscal Year Setup Window" under the "Setups"
                      menu.  You can change the year before you print.

     1st-4th Quarter  Select any of the four quarters to limit the report
                      to a specific three month period within the current
                      fiscal year.  You set the fiscal year in the "Fiscal
                      Year Setup Window" under the "Setups" menu.





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            49






     Between Any Two Dates
                      Select this option if you want to specify the range
                      of dates that will appear on the report.  This is the
                      most flexible option.

     After you've selected a "date range", CheckMate Plus will take you to
     the "Transaction Report Window".  Set any options you wish, and then
     print the report by pressing [F10].  See the next chapter "Report
     Printing Options" for much more information about the options
     available.

     5.1.0.1  Customizing

      CheckMate Plus lets you "customize" the Transaction report to some
     degree.  Press [F3] while you're in the "Transaction  Report Window"
     and CheckMate Plus will pop up the "Customize Transaction Report
     Window".

     Here you can specify the fields you want to appear on each line and
     how much space each field will take.  If you don't want a particular
     field to appear, set its length to "zero".  Amounts are "right-
     justified" in their fields.

     CheckMate Plus computes the characters per line you'll need for the
     report.  Make sure you set the "Report Parameters" correctly (see next
     chapter, "Report Printing Options").  Press [F10] to save your
     customizations to disk.  [ ESC] takes you back to the "Transaction
     Report Window".


     5.2  General Ledger Reports


     Unlike the "Transaction" report discussed above, the "General Ledger
     Reports" present information on ALL (detail) accounts you've defined.
     When you select "Ledger" from the "Reports" menu, you'll see another
     menu with three choices:

     The "Ledger Activity" report lists each account and its activity for
     the specified period.  The "Ledger Transaction" report displays each
     transaction in ledger form (much like the "Split" window you see while
     entering transactions).  The "Chart of Accounts" menu is simply a
     listing of all your ledger accounts (in logical order).

     5.2.1  The Ledger Activity Report

     After you pick "Activity Report" from the Ledger Reports menu, you'll
     be prompted to specify a "date range" for the report.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            50






     Date Ranges:

     Month            Select "Month" to limit the report to a specific
                      month and year.  You can specify a particular month
                      before printing.

     Year             This option will print all activity within an
                      accounting (or fiscal) year.  You set the fiscal year
                      in the "Fiscal Year Setup Window" under the "Setups"
                      menu.  You can change the year before you print.

     1st-4th Quarter  Select any of the four quarters to limit the report
                      to a specific three month period within the current
                      fiscal year.  You set the fiscal year in the "Fiscal
                      Year Setup Window" under the "Setups" menu.

     Between Any Two Dates
                      Select this option if you want to specify the range
                      of dates that will appear on the report.  This is the
                      most flexible option.

     After you've selected a "date range", CheckMate Plus will take you to
     the "Ledger Activity Report Window".  You can also limit the range of
     accounts that will appear on the report.

     + NOTE: CheckMate Plus must search the database (between the date
     ranges) once for each account to be printed.  If you have a lot of
     accounts and a lot of transactions, CheckMate Plus may have to work a
     long time to set up the report.  Narrowing both the date range and the
     account range can speed things up considerably.

     Set any options you wish, and then print the report by pressing [F10].
     See the next chapter "Report Printing Options" for much more
     information about the options available.

     5.2.2  The Ledger Transaction Report

     After you pick "Transaction Report" from the Ledger Reports menu,
     you'll be prompted to specify a "date range" for the report.

     Date Ranges:

     Month            Select "Month" to limit the report to a specific
                      month and year.  You can specify a particular month
                      before printing.

     Year             This option will print all transactions within an
                      accounting (or fiscal) year.  You set the fiscal year



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            51






                      in the "Fiscal Year Setup Window" under the "Setups"
                      menu.  You can change the year before you print.

     1st-4th Quarter  Select any of the four quarters to limit the report
                      to a specific three month period within the current
                      fiscal year.  You set the fiscal year in the "Fiscal
                      Year Setup Window" under the "Setups" menu.

     Between Any Two Dates
                      Select this option if you want to specify the range
                      of dates that will appear on the report.  This is the
                      most flexible option.

     After you've selected a "date range", CheckMate Plus will take you to
     the "Ledger Transaction Report Window".

     Set any options you wish, and then print the report by pressing [F10].
     See the next chapter "Report Printing Options" for much more
     information about the options available.

     5.2.3  The "Chart of Accounts" Report

     Pick "Chart of Accounts" from the Ledger Reports menu to print a
     listing of all your accounts (including summary accounts).

     Each account's number and name are listed in this report (and also
     whether the account is a "debit" or "credit" account).

     Set any options you wish, and then print the report by pressing [F10].
     See the next chapter "Report Printing Options" for much more
     information about the options available.


     5.3  Summary Reports


     "Summary" reports "summarize" the activity of all your accounts into
     two specific reports:

         o  Balance Sheets

         o  Income Statements

     "Balance Sheets" are like a "snapshot" of your account balances on a
     specific date.






     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            52






     "Income Statements" (also called "Profit/Loss Statements") show the
     change in your account balances between two dates.  Income statements
     are generally only concerned with REVENUE and EXPENSE accounts.

     Select "Summary" from the "Reports Menu".  You can then pick either
     "Balance Sheet" or "Income Statement".

     5.3.1  The Balance Sheet

     When you pick "Balance Sheet" from the Summary Reports menu, CheckMate
     Plus gives you yet another menu with three choices, a "standard"
     balance sheet, a "custom" balance sheet, and a "trial balance".

     5.3.1.1  The Standard Balance Sheet

     CheckMate Plus will generate a "textbook" balance sheet when you pick
     this option.  You'll see the "Balance Sheet Report Window" and will
     have two specific options (in addition to the ones common in all
     reports).  First, you must specify a date for the balance sheet
     (remember, this is a "snapshot" of account balances on that date!).
     You can also have CheckMate Plus display account numbers (before each
     account name) on the report.

     Press [F10] to print the report.  See the chapter "Report Printing
     Options" for more information on formatting and controlling the
     report.

     5.3.1.2  Customized Balance Sheets

      If you prefer to design your own balance sheet, you can do so in
     CheckMate Plus.  (See chapter 7, "Designing Custom Reports").  In
     fact, you can design up to forty different balance sheets.

     Selecting "Custom" from the Balance Sheet menu will pop up a menu of
     balance sheets you've defined.  Pick the one you want, and you'll find
     yourself in the "Custom Report Window".  See chapter 6 ("Report
     Printing Options") for a complete discussion on printing and
     formatting the report.

     [F10] prints the report, [ESC] backs you up one menu.

     + NOTE: Even though we call these "custom BALANCE SHEETS", you can
     really design any type of report you wish.  The difference between a
     "balance sheet" and an "income statement" is primarily the calculation
     that take place.  Balance sheets report balances on a specific date,
     while income statements report activity (or the change in balance)
     between two dates.  When you design your custom reports, keep this
     distinction in mind, and select the model that fits your requirement.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            53






     5.3.1.3  The Trial Balance

      Select "Trial Balance" from the Balance Sheet menu to print a
     "textbook" trial balance.  The trial balance simply lists ALL (detail)
     accounts and their balance (as of the date you enter).

     Since the purpose of the trial balance is to make sure that
     debits=credits for all accounts, CheckMate Plus omits account number
     39999 (Non-Accounted for Funds) from this report.

     Press [F10] to print the report.

     5.3.2  The Income Statement

     When you pick "Income Statement" from the Summary Reports menu,
     CheckMate Plus gives you yet another menu with two choices, a
     "standard" income statement or a "custom" income statement.

     5.3.2.1  The Standard Income Statement

     As with the balance sheet (above), CheckMate Plus will generate a
     "textbook" income statement when you pick this option.

     Since income statements report balance changes between two dates,
     CheckMate Plus will ask you for a "date range" (by popping up the
     "date range" menu).

     Date Ranges:

     Month            Select "Month" to create an income statement for a
                      specific month and year.  You can specify a
                      particular month before printing.

     Year             This option will print an income statement for an
                      entire fiscal year.  You set the fiscal year in the
                      "Fiscal Year Setup Window" under the "Setups" menu.
                      You can change the year before you print.

     1st-4th Quarter  Select any of the four quarters to limit the report
                      to a specific three month period within the current
                      fiscal year.  You set the fiscal year in the "Fiscal
                      Year Setup Window" under the "Setups" menu.

     Between Any Two Dates
                      Select this option if you want to specify the range
                      of dates for the income statement.  This is the most
                      flexible option (but you can't generate any budget
                      information).



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            54






     Once you've picked a "date range", you'll see the "Income Statement
     Report Window" and will have some specific options (in addition to the
     ones common in all reports and the specific date range).  First, you
     can have CheckMate Plus display account numbers (before each account
     name) on the report.  You can also tell CheckMate Plus to display
     "budget information".

     The "budget information" CheckMate Plus displays is the ratio of the
     account's ACTUAL balance versus its BUDGETED balance (for the same
     "date range").  You enter the budget information while you define or
     edit each account (under the "Accounts" menu).

     Press [F10] to print the report.  See Chapter 6, "Report Printing
     Options", for more information on formatting and controlling the
     report.

     5.3.2.2  Customized Income Statements

      If you prefer to design your own income statement, you can do so in
     CheckMate Plus.  (See chapter 7, "Designing Custom Reports").  In
     fact, you can design up to forty different income statements.

     Selecting "Custom" from the Income Statement menu will pop up a menu
     of income statements you've defined.  Pick the one you want, and
     you'll find yourself in the "Custom Report Window".  See chapter 6
     ("Report Printing Options") for a complete discussion on printing and
     formatting the report.

     [F10] prints the report, [ESC] backs you up one menu.

     + NOTE: Even though we call these "custom INCOME STATEMENTS", you can
     really design any type of report you wish.  The difference between a
     "balance sheet" and an "income statement" is primarily the calculation
     that takes place.  Balance sheets report balances on a specific date,
     while income statements report activity (or the change in balance)
     between two dates.  When you design your custom reports, keep this
     distinction in mind, and select the model that fits your requirement.














     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            55

























































     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            56












                                   Chapter 6

                            Report Printing Options


     This chapter details the options you have for formatting and
     generating reports.  For specifics on the reports themselves, see the
     previous chapter ("Reports").


     6.1  Report Options


     Every report you can generate in CheckMate Plus has an "options"
     window associated with it.  Among other report specific options
     (discussed along with the reports themselves), here are the general
     options you'll have available:

         o  Report Date

         o  Print to Screen, Printer, or File

         o  Report Title

         o  Report Footer

     Let's take a closer look at these different options...

     6.1.1  Date

     The "Report Date" is the date CheckMate Plus will print on the title
     line of the report.  It has nothing to do with the data in the report!
     It is simply meant to show when the report was generated.  The default
     is the current (DOS) date.

     6.1.2  "Print To" Options

     CheckMate Plus lets you print your reports to the screen (which we
     call "virtual paper"), your printer, or to a disk file in ASCII
     format.





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            57






     To select your printing option, move the cursor to the "Print To"
     field and type "Screen", Printer", or "File".  This is a "menu field",
     so you can also press [alt-F10] (or the center button on the mouse) to
     pop the menu up.

     6.1.2.1  To the Screen

      One problem with printing reports to the screen is that the screen is
     often too narrow to show the complete report.  CheckMate Plus uses
     Virtual Paper to display reports on the screen.

     When you select printing "to the screen", CheckMate Plus formats the
     report exactly as if you were printing to the printer (including
     titles, footers, and margins).  CheckMate Plus then opens the "Virtual
     Paper" window, and writes the report there.

     Virtual Paper displays as much of the report as it can (in the
     window).  If each line is longer than you you can see on screen, you
     can scroll the window (with the left/right arrow keys, the TAB keys,
     or the mouse).

     You can also scroll the window up and down with the up/down arrow
     keys, [ PgUp], [PgDn], [Home], [End], or the mouse.

     CheckMate Plus presents the "highlighted bar" as a straight edge for
     your use while viewing the report.

     Virtual Paper is a marvelous tool for viewing reports prior to
     spending lots of time (and money) printing them to paper.  The only
     drawback is memory usage.  In order to allow forward and backward
     scrolling, CheckMate Plus must store the entire report in memory.
     This can take lots of your precious RAM!

     Fortunately, CheckMate Plus uses on the fly "run length encoding" of
     white spaces to dramatically reduce the memory requirements for most
     reports.  Also, CheckMate Plus releases memory that it doesn't need
     (in fact, CheckMate Plus is constantly allocating and deallocating
     memory throughout the program operation).

     Obviously, the more RAM available to CheckMate Plus the less likely
     you'll see CheckMate Plus complain.  But even with as little as 512K
     bytes available, CheckMate Plus should be able to handle all but the
     largest reports in Virtual Paper.

     6.1.2.2  To the Printer

      Select "Printer" in the "Print To" field to generate a hard copy of
     your report.  You can change the printer port (LPT1, LPT2, COM1, and



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            58






     COM2) in the "Report Parameters" window (see next section, "Report
     Parameters").

     + NOTE: If you tell CheckMate Plus to print to a printer that is off,
     off-line, or doesn't even exist, what will happen next depends on YOUR
     COMPUTER and your ROM BIOS.  Some computers will return execution to
     CheckMate Plus.  CheckMate Plus then displays an appropriate message
     and stops trying to print.  Other computers will simply "hang" until
     you fix the problem (i.e. turn on the printer, etc).  You may have to
     "reboot" your system if your computer does this (and there is NOTHING
     that CheckMate Plus can do about it!).

     6.1.2.3  To a File

      If you want to write the formatted report to a disk file in ASCII
     format, enter "File" in the "Print To" field before you start
     printing.

     You'll have to enter a legal DOS filename in the "File Name" field.
     You can specify the entire name, including a "path" (in the space you
     have available).  CheckMate Plus will promptly notify you if it can't
     create the report file.

     6.1.3  Title

     The report "Title" appears on the title line (just below
     company/personal information and on the same line as the report date).
     You can enter this title in the "Report Title" field.

     Some reports "pre-initialize" the title.  If so, you can change it
     before you start printing.

     6.1.4  Footer

     The report "Footer" appears at the bottom of every page (on the same
     line as the page number).  You can customize the footer in the "Report
     Footer" field.

     6.1.5  The "Utility" Menu

     While you're setting your report options (before you print the
     report), you can pop a "utility" menu up by pressing [F2].

     The "utility" menu has two options: "Set Report Parameters" and "Set
     Search and Filter".  These options are discussed in detail in the
     following sections.





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            59






     6.2  Report Parameters


     When you select "Set Report Parameters" from the "Utilities" menu, the
     "Report Parameters Setup Window" will appear.

     The "Report Parameters" let you set items such as margins, line
     lengths, the printer port, and any setup or exit control strings you
     want to send to your printer.  We put these items in a separate (less
     accessible) window since we anticipate you won't be changing them very
     often.  You can set default values for all these fields (see the
     chapter "Setup and Options").

     Margins          You can set the "margins" (top, bottom, left, and
                      right).  Express the top and bottom margins as a
                      number of lines, and the left and right margins as a
                      number of characters.

                      + NOTE: CheckMate Plus assumes that you're using
                      "fixed width" fonts for your reports (rather than
                      proportionally spaced fonts).  Most printers do use
                      (or at least have the option to use) fixed width
                      fonts.

                      CheckMate Plus does not support "postscript" printers
                      at this time.

     Paper Sizes      Paper size is a function of the number of lines per
                      page you can print and the number of characters on
                      each line.  These numbers are absolute (i.e. they
                      include margins).

                      Most printers put 66 lines on a page.  Many laser
                      printers, however, require built-in top and bottom
                      margins.  The Hewlett Packard LaserJet, for example,
                      can only print 60 lines per page.

                      The number of characters per line you print will
                      usually be determined by either the width of the
                      paper (most paper is 8.5'' wide) or by the "pitch" of
                      the print.  For instance, if your printer has a
                      "compressed" mode (17 characters per inch), you can
                      print 132 characters on a standard letter-sized sheet
                      of paper.

                      + NOTE: You can use the "Printer Setup Strings"
                      (discussed below) to "command" your printer into
                      compressed mode.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            60






     Page Control     You can tell CheckMate Plus to "pause" after each
                      page to let you feed paper (if you're not using a
                      laser printer or continuous feed paper).

     Printer Port     CheckMate Plus lets you direct your printed reports
                      to LPT1, LPT2, COM1, or COM2.  Set your printer port
                      in the "Printer Port for Reports" field.  (This is a
                      "menu field", so press [alt-F10] or the center mouse
                      button to "pop" the menu up).


     Setup Strings    CheckMate Plus lets you define printer "setup" and
                      "exit" strings to control such things as margins,
                      character pitch, attributes, etc.  CheckMate Plus
                      sends the "setup" strings to your printer before it
                      starts the report and the "exit" strings after the
                      report is completed.

                      For instance, you may want to "command" your printer
                      to print 17 characters per inch for some of the
                      reports.  You would enter the proper "control codes"
                      in the "Printer Setup Strings" field.

                      You'll probably want to use the "exit" strings to
                      reset your printer (for normal operation).

                      The printer control codes can be found in your
                      printer manual.  The format for entry is

                      \<decimal code>\<decimal code>\....

                      The back-slashes delimit the codes.  Here is an
                      example:

                      \27\85

                      This string represents an <ESC> 'U'.  (That's an
                      escape-capital-U).  This is a popular means of
                      defining printer codes.

     6.2.1  Saving Report Parameters

     Press [F10] while in the "Report Parameters Setup Window" to save your
     setups for later use.  CheckMate Plus will ask you for a name (to
     associate with the setups).






     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            61






     6.2.2  Retrieving Report Parameters

     To retrieve a set of previously defined parameters, press [F9] while
     in the "Report Parameters Setup Window".  If you've previously saved
     any setups, CheckMate Plus will present you with a menu to select
     from.

     6.2.3  Deleting Report Parameters from Disk

     To delete a setup you've previously saved, first "retrieve" the
     desired setup (as described above).  Then press [F8].   CheckMate Plus
     will prompt you to confirm your intentions before actually deleting
     the setup.


     6.3  "Search and Filter"


     Many reports search the transaction database.  You can limit the
     search by setting a "search and filter" pattern for each transaction
     to "match".  Select "Set Search and Filter" to pop-up the "Search and
     Filter" window.

     Remember that the "search and filter" pattern doesn't have any effect
     unless the "filter flag" is set.  (The word "FILT" will appear on the
     "top line" of the screen when the filter flag is active.  Press [alt-
     F] to toggle the filter flag on and off.
























     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            62












                                   Chapter 7

                            Designing Custom Reports


     CheckMate Plus has a host of built-in reports.  You may, however, wish
     to customize some of them to meet your specific needs.

     You may customize your summary reports.  These are the reports that
     show account balances and activity.  In particular, you can customize
     two specific types of reports: balance sheets and income statements.

     You select the type of report you want to customize from the
     "Maintenance" menu.  Pick either "Define Custom Balance Sheets" or
     "Define Custom Income Statement".  Both selections will pop-up another
     menu with two options: "Enter new Report Definitions" or "Edit
     existing Report Definitions".

     If you select "edit", CheckMate Plus will present a menu of previously
     defined reports (if any exist).  Select the report you want.

     + NOTE: Even though we call these "BALANCE SHEETS" or "INCOME
     STATEMENTS", you can really design any type of report you wish.  The
     difference between a "balance sheet" and an "income statement" is
     primarily the calculation that takes place.  Balance sheets report
     balances on a specific date, while income statements report activity
     (or the change in balance) between two dates.  When you design your
     custom reports, keep this distinction in mind, and select the model
     that fits your requirement.

     You'll enter and edit your report definitions with CheckMate Plus'
     built in editor.  (See Chapter 2 for more details).  When you're done
     with your entries, press [F10] to save your definition to disk.  Press
     [F9] to delete a definition that you're editing.

     The rest of this chapter is devoted to the actual report definition
     format.








     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            63






     7.1  Report Definition Format


     We've made every possible effort to make the report definition format
     as simple as possible in CheckMate Plus.  We realize that a feature is
     not really useful unless people use it.  We think you'll find
     CheckMate Plus' report definition format very easy to master.

     + NOTE: In any definition language, you must "trade off" flexibility
     with ease-of-use.  In order to make the report definition language
     truly easy to use, we've restricted its flexibility somewhat.  We hope
     we've hit the optimum balance.

     The report definition format is very simple.  Essentially, all you
     have to do is type the report just as you want it to appear when you
     print it.  Look at this example:


     This is a Test Balance Sheet.

         ASSETS
             Cash
             Checking Account
             Building
             -- etc --

         LIABILITIES
             Accounts Payable
             Salaries Payable
             -- etc --

         EQUITY
             -- etc --
     .end


     Here's how the report will look when CheckMate Plus prints it:














     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            64






         ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  XYZ Shoes, Inc
                                    PO Box 0000
                                   Anytown, USA
                                  [phone]

                              "Our Shoes Smell Good"
         ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Jul  5, 1990
         ------------------------------------------------------------------


         This is a Test Balance Sheet.

             ASSETS
                 Cash
                 Checking Account
                 Building
                 -- etc --

             LIABILITIES
                 Accounts Payable
                 Salaries Payable
                 -- etc --

             EQUITY
                 -- etc --


                                                                     Page 1


                   Figure 7.1: A "Test" Custom Balance Sheet

     While you define the report, keep in mind that CheckMate Plus will put
     the text on the same lines and in the same columns as you enter them.
     It's that simple.

     Notice that we ended the report definition with ".end".  The ".end"
     command tells CheckMate Plus when to end the report.  You must place
     the command in column one.  The ".end" won't show up on the report
     when you print it.

     7.1.1  Account Balances

     Of course, the reports won't be of much use if you can't print actual
     values. CheckMate Plus makes this easy, too.  To print an account's
     "balance" enter the account's number within brackets, like this:



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            65






          {#1} or {#10000}

     The first expression will cause CheckMate Plus to print the balance of
     account #1 (ASSETS).  The second expression prints the balance of
     account 10000.  Notice the pound sign ("#") preceding the account's
     number.

     The "balance" will take up as much space as you allow with the
     brackets.  If you want the balance to take up twelve spaces, for
     instance, enter the balance as such:

          {#1         }

     The number will be right-justified in the field (so you can line up
     columns of numbers) and will include commas and two digits after the
     decimal point.  The length CheckMate Plus will print includes the
     brackets.  (This makes it easy to design the report.  Everything
     prints exactly as it appears while you enter it).  Let's expand our
     earlier example to include the balances:


     This is a Test Balance Sheet.

         ASSETS                                {#1        }
             Cash                {#10000    }
             Checking Account    {#10001    }
             Building            {#10002    }
             -- etc --

         LIABILITIES                           {#2        }
             Accounts Payable    {#20000    }
             Salaries Payable    {#20001    }
             -- etc --

         EQUITY                                {#3        }
             -- etc --


     Here's how our ammended report will look when CheckMate Plus prints
     it:











     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            66






         ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  XYZ Shoes, Inc
                                    PO Box 0000
                                   Anytown, USA
                                  [phone]

                              "Our Shoes Smell Good"
         ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Jul  5, 1990
         ------------------------------------------------------------------


         This is a Test Balance Sheet.

             ASSETS                                  145,732.35
                 Cash                    1,685.11
                 Checking Account        1,642.69
                 Building              101,987.88
                 -- etc --

             LIABILITIES                              89,038.05
                 Accounts Payable        1,345.00
                 Salaries Payable        3,150.00
                 -- etc --

             EQUITY                                   54,430.43
                 -- etc --


                                                                     Page 1

         Figure 7.2: A "Test" Custom Balance Sheet with Account Values

     See how CheckMate Plus let's you line up the columns?

     + NOTE: Remember that the value CheckMate Plus will print depends upon
     the type of report you define.  "Balance Sheets" will print the actual
     balance of the account (on the balance sheet date).  "Income
     Statements" will print the change in the balance of the account
     between two dates.

     7.1.2  Budget Information

     You can also have CheckMate Plus print budget information on the
     report.  The format is identical to the "balances", except use a "%"
     instead of a "#" inside the brackets.  For example,

          {%10000}



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            67






     will CheckMate Plus to print budget information for account number
     10000.

     CheckMate Plus prints the budget information as a percentage of the
     actual balance over the same period of time.  The budget information
     really only makes sense for "Income Statements".

     7.1.3  Calculations

     At times, you'll need to perform some calculations before printing.
     CheckMate Plus lets you "embed" calculations in the report.

     Suppose, for instance, that you need to calculate PROFIT for your
     Income Statement.  Since PROFIT=REVENUE-EXPENSES, you can't derive
     profit from any one account's balance.

     If you start a line in the report definition with a period ("."),
     CheckMate Plus will treat that line as a calculation line (it won't
     print in the report).  They work like this:

          .Profit=#4-#5

     "Profit" becomes a variable.  Here we have assigned it the value of
     account number 4 (REVENUE) minus the value of account number 5
     (EXPENSES).  You can then use "Profit" inside the braces (just like
     balances and budget information).  Hence, these lines in the report
     will print the profit:

          .Profit=#4-#5
          Profit = {Profit     }

     You can embed the "calculation lines" anywhere in the report, so long
     as column 1 has a period!  The variables may be reused.  You can even
     include numbers in the calculations.  For example:

          .Total=100+#1-300/2

     This is a valid calculation line.  The calculations can include
     multiplication ("*"), division ("/"), addition ("+"), and subtraction
     ("-").  The standard mathematical order of precedence applies, and you
     can use parentheses in the expression.


     7.2  Tips on Designing Reports


     If you think about designing your reports for a minute, you can see
     how much flexibility you really have.  You can enter any text you



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            68






     want, and arrange the values to print alongside it.  This means you
     can "summarize" the report as you see fit.

     Here's where "summary" accounts are particularly useful.  Suppose, for
     instance, you have three bank accounts (numbered 10000, 10001, and
     10002).  You can define a summary account number 1000 and call it
     "Cash in Banks".  Then you can define an report that would print out
     like this:

               10000  First Bank        1,232.12
               10002  Second Bank         756.55
               10003  Third Bank        2,334.00

               Total                    4,322.67

     Here's what the actual definition would look like:

               10000  First Bank      {#10000  }
               10002  Second Bank     {#10001  }
               10003  Third Bank      {#10002  }

               Total                  {#1000   }

     + IMPORTANT: Remember that for the above example to work properly, you
     can't have any accounts numbered 10003 through 10009!  Refer to
     Chapter 3 for more information on "summary" accounts.

     You could also do the above summation with variables and calculation
     lines (see above).

     You can see that with a little imagination, you can design some very
     powerful and useful reports.  You can create up to 40 "balance sheets"
     and up to 40 "income statements" for a total of 80 custom report
     definitions.

















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     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            70












                                   Chapter 8

                         Reconciling Checking Accounts


     One of CheckMate Plus' most useful features is checking account
     reconciliation.  CheckMate Plus goes beyond most checking account
     programs in that it can completely re-create bank statements at any
     time!

     CheckMate Plus does this by recording the date each transaction clears
     (and it does this automatically).  Select "Reconcile" from the
     "Reports" menu to start reconciling (this option only appears on the
     menu if the current control account is a checking account).

     Checking account reconciliation is a four step process:

         o  Enter the "statement" date from your bank statement.  This is
            important!

         o  Enter any "new" transactions (interest earned, service charges,
            or transactions you "missed" during the month).

         o  Mark transactions that have cleared on this statement.

         o  Print the "Reconciliation Report".

     8.0.0.1  Your Statement Date

     Your first step is entering the statement date (from your bank
     statement).  This is important because CheckMate Plus will save this
     date (in the "date cleared" field) for every transaction on the
     statement.

     The statement date should be clearly marked as such on your bank
     statement.  Enter the date, and move on to step two (monthly events).

     8.0.0.2  Monthly Events

     "Monthly events" are those transactions that appear on your statement
     every month (such as interest earned or service charges).  After
     you've entered your "statement date", press [F3] to enter these



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            71






     transactions (if you have any).  CheckMate Plus pops up the familiar
     "enter transactions" form for you.  You have all the features normally
     available (including the "pop-up menu" and "utilities").

     + IMPORTANT: Be sure and enter the correct date for these
     transactions!  The date must be on or before the "statement date" or
     the transactions won't appear while "clearing" (see below).

     Repeat this step for each "monthly event" you need to enter.  Then
     proceed to step three (clearing transactions).

     8.0.0.3  Clearing Transactions

      Press [F4] to "clear" transactions.  At this point, CheckMate Plus
     will search through the data file looking for transactions that have
     not cleared (dated before the statement date) and transactions that
     have already cleared on the statement date.  Keep in mind that you may
     have transactions from long ago that have either not cleared (or have
     cleared on this date).  If you have several years worth of data, be
     patient as CheckMate Plus searches the file!  It's absolutely
     necessary.

     Once CheckMate Plus is done scanning the file, the "Reconcile Window"
     will appear.  (This window is very similar to the "Browse Window).
     Each transaction takes one line.  Transactions that have "cleared" are
     marked with "arrows" at each end.

     You should also check to see if any of the transactions on the
     statement come after that date.  (Sometimes banks will show service
     charges or interest on the day following the statement date).  If this
     is the case, then mark those transactions as occurring on the
     statement date.

     8.0.0.4  The Reconciliation Report

      After you've marked every "cleared" transaction, you're ready to
     print the "Reconciliation Report".  Because CheckMate Plus records the
     "date cleared" for every transaction, this report should have exactly
     the same information as your bank statement.

     Press [F10] to start the report process.  CheckMate Plus has to search
     the entire file (from start to statement date) looking for
     transactions that may have "cleared" on this statement.  If you have
     several years worth of data, this could take a few minutes.

     After CheckMate Plus has searched the file, the "Reconciliation Report
     Window" appears.




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            72






     Set any options you wish and then press [F10] to print.

     The report should list all transactions that cleared on this bank
     statement.  At the bottom of the report, CheckMate Plus will list six
     additional items:

          Balance Last Statement
          Balance This Statement
          Number of Checks and Debits
          Number of Deposits and Credits
          Total of Checks and Debits
          Total of Deposits and Credits

     Most bank statements also include these lines.  If all is well, the
     numbers on the report should match you statement exactly.  If not,
     carefully compare the report to the statement to track down the error.



































     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            73

























































     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            74












                                   Chapter 9

                                Printing Checks


     In this chapter, we'll discuss how to use CheckMate Plus to print your
     checks.  You can use pin-feed checks, laser checks, or even "single"
     checks right out of your checkbook!

     + NOTE: Before you can print any checks, you must have assigned a
     "check layout" to the account you're using.  You do this while
     entering (or editing) accounts under the "Accounts" menu.

     You don't have to print every check.  Many CheckMate Plus users print
     some checks and write others by hand.  This is easy to do in CheckMate
     Plus...  just make sure you manually set the "PRINTED" flag while
     you're entering (or editing) the checks you write by hand.

     + TIMESAVER: If you're not printing any checks (that is, you're
     writing them all by hand), just "ignore" the "PRINTED" flag!  You
     don't have to set it to "YES".


     9.1  Printing Your Checks


     You can print your checks at two different times: while you're writing
     them (one at a time) or in "batch".  In either case, you'll have to
     properly align the check in the printer before printing.  This may
     seem difficult at first (especially with individual checks), but it
     becomes second nature with a little practice.

     + SPECIAL NOTE: Most dot-matrix printers have "pull tractors", which
     means you have to feed and extra check up to the tractor each time you
     print.  This means you must discard one check each time you print, and
     could mess up the check "numbers".  If you're buying pin-feed checks
     for CheckMate Plus, we suggest you order them without preprinted check
     numbers (and let CheckMate Plus print the number on the check).

     You can only print checks from the currently active control account.





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            75






     9.1.0.1  Printing while Editing

     At any time while you're entering (or editing) a check, you can print
     it by popping up the "utilities menu".  The "print check" option
     appears.  Select it to print your check immediately.

     Make sure your printer and check are ready before you select this
     option!  CheckMate Plus prints the check immediately.

     After printing, CheckMate Plus will mark the check's "PRINTED" flag to
     "YES".

     9.1.0.2  Printing in "Batch"

      If you so choose, you can have CheckMate Plus print all your checks
     at one time (in batch).  Select "Print Checks" from the "Reports"
     menu.  (The "Print Checks" option will only appear if the current
     control account is a checking account).  CheckMate Plus will display
     the first check to print.

     At this point, you have some options.  You may print each check (one
     at a time) by pressing the [SPACE BAR].  CheckMate Plus will pause
     between each one.  (This is the way you'll want to print checks if
     you're feeding them into your printer one at a time).

     If you want to print all the checks one after another (without pausing
     between each one), press [F10].  You can press [F10] anytime, even if
     you've already printed some checks with the [SPACE BAR].

     If you discover you've already written a check that's to be printed,
     you can press [F2] to have CheckMate Plus mark it as printed without
     actually printing it!  We added this feature in case you're mixing
     writing checks by hand and printing them.  We suggest you manually
     mark the check as printed while you enter it.  But if you forget, you
     can correct it here.

     Before CheckMate Plus can print any checks, it must "parse" the check
     layout and make sure there are no "syntax" errors.  CheckMate Plus'
     check writing language is by far the most powerful in the industry,
     with many features and maximum flexibility.  (See "Designing Your Own
     Check Layout" for more information).

     If CheckMate Plus finds an error in your check layout, the "Error in
     Check Layout" window appears (with an error message and error
     location).  At this point you have two options.  Press [F2] to
     immediately enter the "Editing Check Layout" window.  CheckMate Plus
     will jump to the error.  Make your corrections, press [F10] to save
     them, and CheckMate Plus returns to the task of printing your checks.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            76






     You can repeat this "loop" as many times as necessary to perfect your
     layout.

     Pressing any other key in the "Error in Check Layout" window causes
     CheckMate Plus to abort printing checks and return to the menu.

     Press [ESC] to abort printing checks.  After CheckMate Plus has
     printed all your checks, you automatically return to the "Reports"
     menu.


     9.2  Selecting a Check Layout


     Before you can print checks with CheckMate Plus, you must tell
     CheckMate Plus how your checks are "laid out".  You can have up to 40
     unique check layouts.  CheckMate Plus comes with three layouts
     preinstalled:

         o  NEBS 9025 (pin-feed check with stub)

         o  NEBS 9027 (laser printer check with stub)

         o  NEBS 9029 (pin-feed check without stub)

     These checks are manufactured by New England Business Service, INC
     (NEBS).  You received a package with this User's Guide containing
     information and an order form.  If you didn't get one or you've
     misplaced it, call us at [phone] and will send the complete
     package to you.

     You can modify these definitions, and even create your own!  (See
     "Designing Your Own Check Layout" below).  You may have up to 40
     definitions.

     You "assign" a check layout to each checking account while you enter
     (or edit the account).  See "Chapter 3: Accounts" for more
     information.


     9.3  Designing Your Own Check Layout


     To design or modify a check layout, select "Define Check Layout" from
     the "Maintenance" menu.  You'll see another menu with two options:
     "Enter new Check Layout" or "Edit existing Check Layout".





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            77






     If you select "edit", CheckMate Plus will present a menu of previously
     defined layouts (if any exist).  Select the layout you want.

     You'll enter and edit your check layouts with CheckMate Plus' built in
     editor.  (See Chapter 2 for more details).  When you're done with your
     entries, press [F10] to save your layout to disk.  Press [F9] to
     delete a layout you're editing.

     The rest of this chapter is devoted to the check layout "language".
     CheckMate Plus' layout language is modeled after the "PASCAL"
     programming language.  If you have any programming experience, you
     should have no trouble mastering the layout language.  If you're a
     novice, or if you're uncomfortable with programming, you may want to
     find a more experienced friend to help you (or consider using one of
     the NEBS checks discussed above).


     9.4  The Check Layout Language


     Defining a check layout is considerably different than designing a
     custom report.  We wanted to give the user an unparalleled capability
     for spacing lines, changing fonts, and manipulating text and values as
     the check is being printed.  To be able to do these types of things,
     you have to be able to issue "commands" to the printer rather than
     simply drawing a "template" of the check.

     9.4.1  Reserved Words and Variables

     Let's start with a list of "reserved" words.  These are the actual
     commands that CheckMate Plus expects in your layout.  We'll detail
     each of these in subsequent sections.

          Begin          End            Page           Pause
          NewCheck       FillersOn      FillersOff     CommasOn
          CommasOff      Column         SkipLines      Write
          Writeln        Stub           Variable       PrintTo
          Input          PrinterString

                Table 9.1: Check Layout Language Reserved Words


     You also have access to these built-in variables for each check.
     Again, we'll elaborate on each one later:







     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            78






          Date           Check Number   PayTo          For
          Vendor Acct#   Comments       Amount         Tax Ded
          Marked         Address 1      Address 2      Address 3
          Amount String

              Table 9.2: Check Layout Language Built-in Variables


     9.4.2  Command Sequence

     The check layout language is a "free format language".  The only
     ordering requirement is that each layout starts with the "begin"
     keyword and ends with the "end" keyword.

       begin
         .
         .
       (your layout here)
         .
         .
       end

     Notice that the "end" doesn't require a "." before it (as the report
     definitions do).

     In between the "begin" and "end", you can enter commands in any order
     you desire.  You can have more than one command on a line.  All
     commands are separated by semicolons (";").  Here's an example:

       begin

       SkipLines(8); column(10);
       FillersOn;
       write(Amount String,L,61,0);
       FillersOff;

       end;

     (We'll discuss what the actual commands do shortly).  You can also
     embed comments in the layout.  The comments are for your benefit --
     (they don't print or affect the printer in any way).

     Enter comments between braces ("{" and "}").  All comments must fit on
     a single line.

       begin

       SkipLines(8); {Start on line # 9}



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       column(10);   {Start in column 10}
       FillersOn;
       write(Amount String,L,61,0);
       {write the spelled out amount}
       FillersOff;

       end;


     9.4.3  A Simple Example

     Now let's generate a very simple example layout.  Let's assume that
     our checks have the date on line 3 in column 55.  We want to print the
     payee's name on line 6 in column 4 (and we have 40 spaces available to
     print in).  After the payee's name (also on line 6) is the dollar
     amount of the check, starting in column 58 with 13 spaces available.
     Finally, we want to print the "spelled out amount" (such as Ten &
     45/100 ***** dollars) on line 8.  We'll start in column 4 and we have
     64 spaces available.

     Here's the layout:

       begin

       SkipLines(2);     {Start on line 3}
       column(55);
       writeln(Date,L,12,0);  {Print the date}

       writeln;          {Go to line 5}
       writeln;          {Go to line 6}

       column(4);
       write(PayTo,L,40,0);   {Write payee}

       FillersOn;
       column(58);
       write(Amount,R,13,0);  {Write the amount}

       writeln;          {Go to line 7}
       writeln;          {Go to line 8}

       column(4);
       write(Amount String,L,64,0);
       FillersOff;

       SkipLines(6);     {Eject the check}

       NewCheck;         {Set up for next check}



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       end


     Now let's discuss each of the command:

     SkipLines(2)     This command tells CheckMate Plus to skip the first
                      two lines of the check and start on line 3.

     column(55)       Now we're telling CheckMate Plus to advance to column
                      55 of the current line.

     writeln(Date,L,12,0)
                      The "writeln" command instructs CheckMate Plus to
                      write the date at the current column.  The "12" means
                      we have twelve spaces available in which to print the
                      date.  The "L" means to left-justify the date in the
                      12 character field.  Finally, the "0" is an "option
                      number".  This number will have different meanings
                      for different variables.  Every time we do a writeln,
                      we go to column one of the next line.

     writeln          Next we did two writeln's (without any parameters).
                      This just means that we'll skip two lines (we could
                      also have used the "SkipLines" command again).

     column(4)        Now we advance to column 4 to print the payee's name.

     write(PayTo,L,40,0)
                      Like the "writeln" command, the "write" command
                      prints the variable.  But unlike the writeln, we do
                      not advance to the next line after we're done!

                      This command tells CheckMate Plus to print the
                      payee's name left-justified in a 40 column field.

     FillersOn        This command tells CheckMate Plus to "fill" blanks
                      with asterisks ("*").  You'll see why when you look
                      at the next two commands.

     column(58)       Advance to column 58.  We're still on the same line
                      with the payee's name.

     write(Amount,R,13,2)
                      This command writes the amount of the check.  The "R"
                      means right-justified in a 13 character field.  Since
                      fillers are on (see above), and leading blanks are
                      converted to asterisks while it's printed.  For
                      example, "100.00" would appear as "*******100.00".



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                      The "2" (in the options field) tells CheckMate Plus
                      to print two digits after the decimal point.

     writeln          Now we do two more writeln's to advance to line 8.

     column(4)        Go to column 4.

     write(Amount String,L,64,0)
                      This writes the "spelled out amount".  The fillers
                      are still on, so the asterisks will fill in all
                      trailing blanks.

     FillersOff       Turn fillers off for the next check.

     SkipLines(6)     Push the current check out.

     NewCheck         This command resets CheckMate Plus' internal counters
                      for the next check.

     Are you getting the idea?  Now let's look at CheckMate Plus' layout
     commands in more detail.

     9.4.4  Layout Commands

     9.4.4.1  Begin

     The "Begin" command takes no arguments.  You must start each layout
     with a "Begin".  Also, you don't place a semicolon after the "begin".

     Example:

          begin


     9.4.4.2  Column(<column number>)

     The "Column" command takes one argument (the column you want to move
     to).

     Example:

          column(10);

     + NOTE: If you're already past the desired column, CheckMate Plus
     issues a carriage return without a line feed (to return to column 1)
     and then moves to the correct column.  Some printers will
     automatically advance one line when they receive a carriage return
     without a line feed.  Others printers will ignore the return and stay



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     at the same column.  The best thing to do is avoid the circumstances
     that would cause CheckMate Plus to issue the carriage return.


     9.4.4.3  CommasOff

     "CommasOff" takes no arguments.  This command causes all subsequent
     numbers to be printed without commas.  For instance, the number
     "1,454,778.45" would appear as "1454778.45".

     Example:

          CommasOff;


     9.4.4.4  CommasOn

     "CommasOn" takes no arguments.  This command causes all subsequent
     numbers to be printed with commas.

     Example:

          CommasOn;


     9.4.4.5  End

     The "End" command takes no arguments.  You must end each layout with
     the "End" command.  The "End" command does not have a semicolon after
     it.

     Example:

          end


     9.4.4.6  FillersOff

     "FillersOff" takes no arguments.  This command causes all subsequent
     variables and text to be printed with "blanks" in the unused space.
     To better understand, look at "FillersOn" below.

     Example:

          FillersOff;






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     9.4.4.7  FillersOn

     "FillersOn" takes no arguments.  This command causes all subsequent
     variables and text to be printed with asterisks ("*") in the unused
     space.  You'll want to turn fillers on while printing the amount and
     amount string on the check (to make the check harder to modify).  For
     example, "FillersOn" will cause the number "100.00" to print as
     "*****100.00" and "One Hundred & 00/100********".  ALL text and
     variables are affected by "FillersOn".  "FillersOff" (above) will turn
     the fillers off again.

     Example:

          FillersOn;


     9.4.4.8  Input(<variable>,<prompt>,<response length>)

     The "Input" command requires three arguments:

         o  A variable to assign the input to

         o  A "prompt" message

         o  The length of the input response

     When CheckMate Plus finds this command in the check layout, it will
     pause, display the "prompt message", and wait for you to enter the
     variable.  You must have defined the variable with the "Variable"
     command before using it in an "Input" command.  The variable can be
     any type, but it must be user-defined (as opposed to built-in).

     The "response length" is how much space CheckMate Plus will give you
     to enter the variable.  The maximum length is 70 characters.

     Example:

          Input(Message,'Enter your message:',25);


     9.4.4.9  NewCheck

     "NewCheck" takes no parameters.  This command resets internal counters
     within CheckMate Plus.  You should issue this command once at the end
     of the layout.


     Example:



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          NewCheck;


     9.4.4.10  Page

     The "Page" command takes no arguments.  The "Page" command sends a
     form feed to the printer.  You can use this to eject single checks or
     when printing laser checks.

     Example:

          Page;


     9.4.4.11  Pause

     The "Pause" command takes no arguments.  When CheckMate Plus
     encounters this command, it will display a "pause message" and wait
     for the [SPACE BAR].  This is very useful for printing individual
     checks (the ones you tear out of your checkbook).  You can have
     CheckMate Plus pause to adjust the check or lower the paper bail bar.

     Example:

          Pause;


     9.4.4.12  PrinterString(<decimal number>,<decimal number>,...)

     "PrinterString" takes multiple arguments (from one to as many that
     will fit on the line).  This command lets you send control codes to
     your printer (to change the font, line spacing, pitch, or anything
     else your printer supports).  You may, for instance, want to place the
     printer in "italic mode" to print the payee's name.

     Enter each character to be sent to the printer as a decimal number
     representing the ASCII code for that character.  (You'll find these
     codes in your printer's manual).  Separate each code with a comma.

     Example:

          PrinterString(27,15,45);

     + NOTE: If you use the "PrinterString" command to change the pitch or
     width of the characters, CheckMate Plus can't accurately keep track of
     the current character "column".  You may have to "experiment" to place
     text and variables exactly where you want.  We suggest issuing a
     "column(1)" command to send the current character position back to



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     column 1.  Some printers can't properly handle the carriage return,
     however (see the "Column" command above).


     9.4.4.13  PrintTo(<destination>)

     The "PrintTo" command requires a single argument:  where you want to
     send the check output.  The "destination" you enter is a text string
     up to 66 characters long.

     If your printer is LPT1, then enter 'LPT1' as your destination.  Other
     choices may be LPT2, COM1, COM2, etc.  You can also enter a filename
     with a complete file path (although we don't know why you'd want to
     print checks to a file).

     If you don't use the "PrintTo" command in your layout, CheckMate Plus
     will default the output to LPT1.

     Example:

          PrintTo('LPT1');


     9.4.4.14  SkipLines(<number of lines to skip>)

     "SkipLines" takes one argument: the number of lines you want to skip.
     CheckMate Plus issues a carriage return and line feed for each line,
     and sets the current column to 1.

     Example:

          SkipLines(5);


     9.4.4.15  Stub(<left margin>,<chars/line>,<starting line>,<lines to
     print>)

     The "Stub" command takes four arguments:

         o  The left margin (number of characters)

         o  Characters per Line

         o  Stub line to start printing

         o  Total number of lines to print





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     The "left margin" is the number of characters CheckMate Plus will skip
     before printing each line.  "Characters per Line" is the number of
     characters CheckMate Plus will print after the left margin.  "Stub
     line to start printing" is the first line of the stub CheckMate Plus
     will print (that is, it "skips" the lines above it).  Total number of
     lines to print is the number of stub lines CheckMate Plus will print.

     + IMPORTANT: CheckMate Plus lets you print a custom stub or an
     "accounts payable" stub.  (See "Stub Layout" in Chapter 4 for more
     information).  Most of the above parameters refer to the custom stub.
     The "accounts payable" stub recognizes only the "left margin".
     "Characters per Line" defaults to 75; "Stub line to start printing"
     defaults to 1, and the "Total number of lines to print" defaults to
     15.  If you're going to mix custom and accounts payable stubs, it
     would be a good idea to set the "stub" parameters with these defaults
     so the custom stub will exactly match the accounts payable stub.

     Example:

          Stub(3,75,1,15);


     9.4.4.16  Write(<variable or text>,<justification>,<field
     length>,<option>)

     The "Write" command prints a variable or text string at the current
     column on the current line.  The "Write" command takes three or four
     arguments (depending on what you're writing):

         o  Variable or Text

         o  Justification

         o  Field Length

         o  Option (for variables only)

     The first argument is either a variable or text.  If the argument
     starts (and ends) with a single quote (') then CheckMate Plus treats
     it as a text string rather than a variable.  You can "write" all the
     built in variables as well as any you define yourself (see the
     "Variable" command).

     "Justification" is how you want the text or variable to print in its
     field.  Enter a "L" for left-justified, "R" for right-justified, and
     "C" for centered.  For instance, if you wanted to print the word
     "Test" in a field 8 characters long, here's how it would appear (the




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     "|" character denotes the start and end of the field.  It doesn't
     print):

          Left-Justified:     |Test    |
          Right-Justified:    |    Test|
          Centered:           |  Test  |

     "Field Length" is how many character spaces the text or variable can
     occupy.

     The "option" argument is valid only for variables.  In most cases,
     you'll leave this field a zero ("0").  For any "numeric" variables
     (such as "amount" or user-defined reals and integers, the "option"
     represents the number of digits to display after the decimal point
     (usually two).  See "Built-in Variables" for more information.

     Examples:

          Write(PayTo,L,35,0);

          Write('This is a test',C,40);


     9.4.4.17  Writeln(<variable or text>,<justification>,<field
     length>,<option>)

     The "Writeln" command is identical to the "Write" command, except that
     a carriage return and linefeed are sent to the printer at the end of
     the command (and the current column is reset to 1).

     You can also issue a "Writeln" command with no arguments (which forces
     the printer to advance on line and sets the column counter to 1).

     Examples:

          Writeln(PayTo,L,35,0);

          Writeln('This is a test',C,40);

          Writeln;


     9.4.4.18  Variable(<variable name>,<type>,<size>)

     This command lets you define your own variables (for printing,
     inputting data, or for use in expressions).  The "Variable" command
     takes two or three arguments, depending on the variable type:




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         o  Variable name

         o  Variable type (string, real, or integer)

         o  Variable size (string only)

     The variable "name" may be any combination of letters and numbers up
     to twenty characters long.  You may also use any "printable"
     characters (including spaces) other than commas, semicolons, and the
     plus ("+") sign.  Names are not case-sensitive.  Each variable's name
     must be unique.

     You can define three types of variables: strings, reals, and integers.
     Strings are "text", reals are "floating point numbers", and integers
     are "whole numbers".

     "Variable size" is available only when you're defining a "string".
     Strings can be any length from 1 to 255 characters long.  (Note,
     however, that CheckMate Plus will only print out to 132 columns).

     Examples:

          Variable(Total,real);

          Variable(Message,string,40);

          Variable(Number,integer);



     9.4.5  Built-in Variables

     Here is a detailed list of the built-in variables you can print (and
     their associated "options" if any).  Use the "options" with the
     "Write" and "Writeln" commands (see above).

     9.4.5.1  Date

     The "Date" variable represents the transaction date.  When you print
     the "date" (using "Write" or "Writeln"), you can affect the printing
     with the following "options" (see the "Write" command above):

     Options:

         o  0: displays the date as MMM DD, YYYY (i.e. Nov 25, 1990)

         o  1: displays the month and day as MMM DD (i.e. Nov 25)




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         o  2: displays the year as YYYY (i.e. 1990)

         o  3: displays the month as MMM (i.e. Nov)

         o  4: displays the day as DD (i.e. 25)

         o  5: displays the year as YY (i.e. 90)

         o  6: displays the month as MM (i.e. 11)

         o  7: displays the date as MM/DD/YY (i.e. 11/25/90)

         o  8: displays the date as MM/DD/YYYY (i.e. 11/25/1990)

         o  9: displays the month and day as MM/DD (i.e. 11/25)

         o  10: displays the date as DD/MM/YY (i.e. 25/11/90)

         o  11: displays the date as DD/MM/YYYY (i.e. 25/11/1990)

         o  12: displays the date as MMM DD, YYYY (i.e. Jan 25, 1990)

         o  13: displays the date (as you've set under "General Setups")


     9.4.5.2  Check Number

     This variable holds the current "Check Number" (an integer).

     9.4.5.3  PayTo

     The "PayTo" variable holds the name of the "payee" on the check.  It
     is a string variable up to 35 characters long.

     9.4.5.4  For

     The "For" variable holds the "For" field on the check.  It is a string
     variable up to 25 characters long.

     9.4.5.5  Vendor Acct#

     The "Vendor Acct#" variable holds the "Vendor Account Number" on the
     check.  It is a string variable up to 30 characters long.

     9.4.5.6  Comments

     The "Comments" variable holds the "Comments" on the check.  It is a
     string variable up to 67 characters long.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            90






     9.4.5.7  Amount

     The "Amount" variable holds the "amount" of the check.  When you print
     the amount, the "option" field controls the number of digits displayed
     after the decimal point (usually 2).

     9.4.5.8  Tax Ded

     The "Tax Ded" variable is YES or NO.  It is a string variable up to 3
     characters long.

     9.4.5.9  Marked

     The "Marked" variable is YES or NO.  It is a string variable up to 3
     characters long.

     9.4.5.10  Address 1

     "Address 1" is the first address line on the check.  It is a string
     variable up to 35 characters long.

     9.4.5.11  Address 2

     "Address 2" is the second address line on the check.  It is a string
     variable up to 35 characters long.

     9.4.5.12  Address 3

     "Address 3" is the third address line on the check.  It is a string
     variable up to 35 characters long.

     9.4.5.13  Amount String

     The "Amount String" is the "spelled out amount".  It is a string
     variable up to 130 characters long.


     9.4.6  Expressions

     CheckMate Plus' layout language also permits you to enter
     "expressions" and assign the results to a user-defined variable.  You
     can then further manipulate or print the variable.

     Here is the expression syntax:

          <user defined variable>=<expression>;





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     Notice that expressions also end with semicolons.  The left side of
     the equation MUST be a user-defined variable (of any type).


     9.4.6.1  Numeric Expressions

      If the variable on the left side of the equation is either an integer
     or a real, then the expression and all factors in it must be numeric.
     You can freely mix reals and integers in the expressions.  The final
     result will be the same type as the variable you're assigning it to.

     You can use all standard operators (multiplication ("*"), division
     ("/"), addition ("+"), and subtraction ("-")) as well as parentheses
     to control the order of precedence.  If you don't use parentheses, the
     order of precedence is:  multiplication and division (in order of
     appearance), then addition and subtraction (in order of appearance).
     These are "standard" rules of precedence.

     Here's an example:

          variable(Number,real);
          Number=10+20/4;

     "Number" now holds the value "15".  Here's a more complex example:

          variable(Number,real);
          variable(Total,real);
          Number=10+20/4;
          Total=(Number+3)*2;

     The variable "Number" now holds "15", while the variable "Total" holds
     "36".  Remember you can include the built-in variables in the
     expression and you can use the "Input" (see above) command to assign
     values at print time.


     9.4.6.2  String Expressions

      If the variable on the left side of the equation is a string, then
     all factors in the expression must be either string variables or text.
     String expression can use only on operator: concatenation ("+").
     Here's an example:

          variable(Message,string,30);
          Message='Hi there';

     The variable "Message" now holds the string "Hi there".  Let's make
     the example a little more complex:



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          variable(Message,string,30);
          variable(Name,string,20);
          Message='Hi there';
          Name='John';
          Message=Message+'! My Name is '+Name+'.';

     Now the variable "Message" holds the string "Hi there! My Name is
     John."

     Remember you can use the "Input" command (see above) to assign text to
     variables at print time.  You can also use "built-in" string variables
     in the expression.  Can you see you can put together complex messages
     to print on the check?






































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     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            94












                                   Chapter 10

                                    Graphics


     In addition to text reports, CheckMate Plus has a variety of graphic
     reports that can help you "visualize" your financial status.


     10.1  System Requirements


     CheckMate Plus can display graphs on most PC graphics hardware.  It
     supports CGA, EGA, VGA, and Hercules graphics.  CheckMate Plus doesn't
     print graphs as of yet.  If you need hard copies, use a "screen dump"
     utility (there are many available as commercial, shareware, and public
     domain utilities).


     10.2  Graphic Reports


     The graphic reports in CheckMate Plus center around either a single or
     multiple accounts.  When you first select "Graphics" from the
     "Reports" menu, CheckMate Plus will pop-up a menu asking which option
     you want:  "One Account" or "Ledger".

     If you select "One Account", CheckMate Plus pops up yet another menu
     with two options: "Account Activity" or "Budget Analysis".

     Alternatively, selecting "Ledger" pops up a menu with these choices:

          Expenses vs Income
          Expenses by Month
          Income by Month
          Detailed Expense
          Detailed Income
          Debt to Equity
          Debt to Assets

     Let's examine each of the two menus one at a time.




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                            95






     10.3  "One Account" Graphics Reports


     10.3.1  Account Activity Graphics Report

     When you select this option, CheckMate Plus displays a window asking
     for a title, a starting month, and a "number of months" to display.

     This graph shows all "activity" (in the current control account only)
     over the range of months you specify.  Press [F10] after you've
     entered your options and CheckMate Plus will pop up the "graph type"
     menu (in this case, you can display "3D" bar graphs, "plain" bar
     graphs, or line graphs).  Make your choice and CheckMate Plus displays
     the graph.

     Press any key to exit the graph.

     10.3.2  Budget Analysis Graphics Report

     After selecting this option, CheckMate Plus displays a window asking
     for a title, a starting month, and a "number of months" to display.
     This graph displays the "actual" activity of the control account next
     to the "budgeted" activity of the control account. Press [F10] after
     you've entered your options and CheckMate Plus will pop up the "graph
     type" menu (in this case, you can display "3D" bar graphs, "plain" bar
     graphs, or line graphs).  Make your choice and CheckMate Plus displays
     the graph.

     Press any key to exit the graph.


     10.4  "Ledger" Graphics Reports


     10.4.1  Expenses vs Income Graphics Report

     This graph displays the total "revenue" next to the total "expenses"
     of each month you specify (for ALL accounts in your chart of
     accounts).  Press [F10] after you've set your options.  CheckMate Plus
     will pop up the "graph type" menu (in this case, you can display "3D"
     bar graphs, "plain" bar graphs, or line graphs).  Make your choice and
     CheckMate Plus displays the graph.

     Press any key to exit the graph.







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     10.4.2  Expenses by Month Graphics Report

     This graph displays the total "expenses" for each month you specify
     (for ALL accounts in your chart of accounts).  Press [F10] after
     you've set your options.  CheckMate Plus will pop up the "graph type"
     menu (in this case, you can display "3D" bar graphs, "plain" bar
     graphs, or line graphs).  Make your choice and CheckMate Plus displays
     the graph.

     Press any key to exit the graph.

     10.4.3  Income by Month Graphics Report

     This graph displays the total "revenue" for each month you specify
     (for ALL accounts in your chart of accounts).  Press [F10] after
     you've set your options.  CheckMate Plus will pop up the "graph type"
     menu (in this case, you can display "3D" bar graphs, "plain" bar
     graphs, or line graphs).  Make your choice and CheckMate Plus displays
     the graph.

     Press any key to exit the graph.

     10.4.4  Detailed Expense Graphics Report

     This graph displays each expense account for the month you specify (up
     to 32).  Press [F10] after you've set your options.  CheckMate Plus
     will pop up the "graph type" menu (in this case, you can display "3D"
     bar graphs, "plain" bar graphs, or pie graphs).  Make your choice and
     CheckMate Plus displays the graph.

     Press any key to exit the graph.

     10.4.5  Detailed Income Graphics Report

     This graph displays each revenue account for the month you specify (up
     to 32).  Press [F10] after you've set your options.  CheckMate Plus
     will pop up the "graph type" menu (in this case, you can display "3D"
     bar graphs, "plain" bar graphs, or pie graphs).  Make your choice and
     CheckMate Plus displays the graph.

     Press any key to exit the graph.

     10.4.6  Debt to Equity Graphics Report

     This graph displays your total debt ("liabilities") next to your total
     "equity" for each month you specify (for ALL accounts in your chart of
     accounts).  Press [F10] after you've set your options.  CheckMate Plus
     will pop up the "graph type" menu (in this case, you can display "3D"



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     bar graphs, "plain" bar graphs, or line graphs).  Make your choice and
     CheckMate Plus displays the graph.

     Press any key to exit the graph.

     10.4.7  Debt to Assets Graphics Report

     This graph displays your total debt ("liabilities") next to your total
     "assets" for each month you specify (for ALL accounts in your chart of
     accounts).  Press [F10] after you've set your options.  CheckMate Plus
     will pop up the "graph type" menu (in this case, you can display "3D"
     bar graphs, "plain" bar graphs, or line graphs).  Make your choice and
     CheckMate Plus displays the graph.

     Press any key to exit the graph.




































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                                   Chapter 11

                            Rebuilding and Repairing


     We've tried hard to make CheckMate Plus as reliable as possible.
     There are times, however, that you may need to "rebuild" or "repair"
     CheckMate Plus' data files.  In this chapter we'll discuss each of the
     rebuild options (and the circumstances under which you may want to use
     them).

     One of the three options under the "rebuild menu" should fix 99% of
     the problems you may encounter.  If you still have difficulties,
     contact Custom Technologies directly.

     When you select "Rebuild the Database" from the "Maintenance" menu,
     CheckMate Plus pops up the "rebuild menu" with these options:

          Complete Rebuild
          Rebuild Index Keys
          Rebuild Accounts

     Now let's look at each option.


     11.1  Rebuilding the Database


     The "Complete Rebuilt" option is the most robust rebuild feature
     available.  This function actually creates a whole new file by
     scanning the original file from start to finish.  It then generates a
     completely new index file.

     CheckMate Plus does this by first creating an empty "working" file and
     writing "active" records to it one by one.  You can specify where this
     "working" file will be.  (If you have a RAM disk, specify it for the
     "working" disk to greatly speed things up).  In any case, you must
     have sufficient free space in your "working" directory to completely
     copy the data file.  Once the "working" file is complete, CheckMate
     Plus erases the original file and copies the "working" file back to
     the original drive and directory.  After the original file has been
     replaced, CheckMate Plus proceeds to regenerate every index key.



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     + NOTE: This method of rebuilding, although somewhat slow, offers
     maximum safety in the event of an error, unexpected power loss, or
     lack of space.

     You'll want to use this procedure if you data file becomes corrupted
     for any reason.  (DOS is a funny animal, and you never know what
     strange combination of events may cause you problems).  This procedure
     also "compacts" the file (since it doesn't copy deleted records).  If
     you've closed transactions or deleted a lot of records, this could
     significantly reduce the disk space you data file consumes.

     + NOTE: CheckMate Plus reuses deleted records before it expands its
     data file size, so you don't necessarily need to run this procedure
     after you delete or close transactions.

     After you've entered the "working" file path, press [F10] to begin the
     rebuild.


     11.2  Rebuilding the Index File


     CheckMate Plus also lets you rebuild your "index" file at any time.
     This rebuild is less robust but much faster than the "complete
     rebuild" (and requires far less disk space).

     What CheckMate Plus does here is erase the index file and scan the
     data base, adding an index entry for each record.  Use this procedure
     if transactions seem to appear more than once while editing, browsing,
     or printing reports.  It may also find transactions that appear to be
     missing.

     Press [F10] to start the procedure.


     11.3  Rebuilding Accounts


     The "Rebuild Accounts" option works on the account values (rather than
     the data file structure).  This procedure computes the running
     balance, the last cleared transaction, and some other account specific
     values for all accounts in your data file.

     CheckMate Plus will automatically ask to run this routine any time it
     thinks it needs to, but you run it manually here.  You'll usually need
     to run this procedure if you add, delete, or modify transactions out
     of date sequence.




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     Press [F10] to start the rebuild.  Remember this procedure affects all
     accounts, not just the current control account.

















































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                                   Chapter 12

                             Financial Calculations


     CheckMate Plus has some very useful routines for doing financial
     calculations.  They're unrelated to CheckMate Plus' primary functions,
     but we think you'll appreciate their availability.

     When you select the "Finance" menu, you'll see three choices:  Loans,
     Regular Deposits, and Compounding.

     The financial calculation windows are "calculation independent".  That
     means that given all but one of the primary variables, CheckMate Plus
     can calculate the last one.  While you're in the windows, leave one of
     the variables "zero" and fill in the rest.  Press [F4] and CheckMate
     Plus will display the missing value!

     You may also press [F5] to "amortize" the calculation (and print an
     amortization report).


     12.1  Loans


     Select "Loans" from the "Finance" menu to open the "Loan Calculation"
     window.  Enter all but one of the of the "numbered" fields and press
     [F4] to calculate the last one.

     Press [F5] to open the "Loan Amortization Report Window".  (You have
     the same formatting options here that you have for any report in
     CheckMate Plus.  See "Report Printing Options", chapter, for more
     information).

     You can also specify the "payment range" you want to print.  Press
     [F10] to start printing after you've setup your options.

     + NOTE: The "total Interest paid" value in the amortization report may
     differ slightly from the "Loan Calculations Window".  This is because
     the amortization report can "adjust" the final payment slightly to
     exactly "pay off" the loan.




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     12.2  Regular Deposits


     "Regular Deposits" are savings accounts, regular bond purchases, or
     any savings program where you deposit a set amount of money at set
     intervals.  For instance, you may be contributing $100 per month for
     30 years as a retirement plan.

     Select "Regular Deposits" from the "Finance" menu to open the "Regular
     Deposits" window.  Just as in the "Loan" window, enter all but one of
     the of the "numbered" fields and press [F4] to calculate the last one.

     Press [F5] to open the "Deposit Amortization Report Window".  (You
     have the same formatting options here that you have for any report in
     CheckMate Plus.  See "Report Printing Options", chapter, for more
     information).

     You can also specify the "deposits range" you want to print.  Press
     [F10] to start printing after you've setup your options.


     12.3  Compounding a Fixed Sum


     "Compounding a fixed sum" means depositing a lump of money once and
     letting it "grow" over time.

     Select "Compounding" from the "Finance" menu to open the window.  Just
     as in the "Loan" window, enter all but one of the of the "numbered"
     fields and press [F4] to calculate the last one.

     Press [F5] to open the "Compounding Amortization Report Window".  (You
     have the same formatting options here that you have for any report in
     CheckMate Plus.  See "Report Printing Options", chapter, for more
     information).

     You can also specify the "compounding ranges" you want to print.
     Press [ F10] to start printing after you've setup your options.

     + NOTE: Daily compounding (i.e. compounding 365 times per year) is
     fairly common, but will result in a huge report.  Compounding daily
     for twenty years, for instance, generates 7,300 lines!  In these
     cases, CheckMate Plus will selectively print "intervals" (say, every
     fifth line).







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                                   Chapter 13

                               Setup and Options


     In this chapter, we'll explore the many setups and options available
     to you for customizing CheckMate Plus.

     Select "Setup" from the main menu bar to pull-down the "Setup" menu.


     13.1  Fiscal Year Information


     Pick "Fiscal Year" from the "Setup Menu" to open the "Fiscal Year
     Setup Window".  Here you can set your current and past fiscal year(s).

     The first option you have is "Current Fiscal Year Start".  You may
     start your "fiscal year" on the first day of any month and year.  The
     month you enter here is important as CheckMate Plus uses this date
     while generating reports.  You may change this date at any time
     without corrupting your data in any way, so you may change the date
     (and even go back to re-create past reports).

     One standard practice in accounting is to clear expense and revenue
     accounts at the end of each year (so you can start a new fiscal year
     with a clean slate).  The balances of the expense and revenue accounts
     are transferred to an "equity" account, often called "Profit/Loss
     1989", "Retained Earnings 1990", or the like.  Once you choose to
     close a year, you can't go back and modify the numbers without making
     "reverse entries".  You can do this with CheckMate Plus (see "Close
     Transactions" under the "Transactions" menu) or you can have CheckMate
     Plus "simulate" closing past years.

     The "Fiscal Year Setup Window" has space for 10 "past years".  For
     each year you enter, CheckMate Plus lets you assign an "equity"
     account to clear all expenses and revenues to.  IMPORTANT!  CheckMate
     Plus only "simulates" clearing the values!  This way, you can keep
     your transaction detail and the ability to modify past transactions
     for over ten years!  The only time you'll see the balances transferred
     is when you print accounting reports (such as balance sheets and




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     income statements).  You won't see them transferred when you look at
     account balances in the "enter" or "edit" features of CheckMate Plus.

     You enter "Past Years" as "years" only ("1989" for example).  The
     starting and ending months depend upon the starting month of your
     "Current Fiscal Year Start".  After you enter each year, you can
     specify the account you want to clear each year to.  This must be an
     "equity account" (account numbers will range from 30000 to 39999).
     You must create these accounts before you can specify them here, and
     they must be detail accounts.

     + NOTE: You don't have to specify past years if you don't want to!
     CheckMate Plus will simply carry balances forward for any years not
     specified.  What we've given you is maximum flexibility unparalleled
     in the industry.

     Also remember you can make the assignments permanent when you "Close
     Transactions" under the "Transactions" menu.  When you do this, you'll
     no longer be able to view or edit those past transactions (since
     CheckMate Plus will erase them) but you will see the accumulated
     balances appear in the correct equity accounts.

     Press [F10] to save your "Current Fiscal Year Start" and all "past
     year" data.


     13.2  Protecting Your "Audit Trail"


     Because CheckMate Plus allows you to retain many years worth of
     information, we included an "audit trail lock" which lets you assign a
     "password" to your audit trail.  If you choose to activate the "audit
     lock", CheckMate Plus won't let you edit or delete any transactions or
     accounts entered before the current system date (unless you know the
     "audit lock" password).  This password is completely separate from the
     system password (See "Password Setup" below).

     Select "Audit Lock" from the "Setup" menu to enter the "Audit Lock
     Setup Window".  You have three options here.

     First, you have a YES/NO question asking you whether or not you want
     to lock data edit capability.  The default is "NO".

     Next, you'll see the "Last Date Run".  CheckMate Plus automatically
     updates this each time you run.  You can't "fool" CheckMate Plus,
     however, because CheckMate Plus will never set this date "back" (so
     changing the DOS date won't help).  We included the date here so you
     can manually set it back for a single session.



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     The last item you can enter is the "audit lock password".  You'll have
     to enter this password each time you try to edit or delete a
     transaction or account that was entered before the "Last Date Run".
     Once you enter this password and turn the "audit lock" on (by
     answering "YES" to the above question), press [F10] to save the
     configuration.

     + IMPORTANT!: Once you've turned the "audit lock" on, you won't be
     able to get back into the "Audit Lock Setup Window" unless you know
     the "audit lock" password!

     If you forget your password, you'll need to send your data files to
     Custom Technologies and we will manually change it for you.  We charge
     a nominal fee for this service.  Call [phone] for more
     information.


     13.3  The Screen Saver


     When you select the "Screen Saver" option from the "Setup" menu, the
     "Screen-Save Setup" window will appear.  In this window, you can
     enable or disable the screen saver feature.  You can also indicate how
     long that you want CheckMate Plus to wait before it will blank the
     screen, and customize the message that CheckMate Plus displays while
     the screen saver is active.  Remember that the screen will only go
     blank if no keyboard activity is detected for the indicated length of
     time.

     + NOTE: Delay times are approximate, and can vary based on CPU speed.

     You must press [F10] to save your setup to the disk.

     After the screen blanks, CheckMate Plus will display a slow-scrolling
     message indicating that the screen save feature is active.  Press any
     character key to restore the screen to normal operation.


     13.4  Colors


     If you have a color monitor, you can customize the screen colors in
     CheckMate Plus.  Select "Colors" from the "Setup" menu to enter the
     "Color Setup Window".

     Notice that CheckMate Plus displays a "sample" window (so you can see
     what your color choices will look like).  The cursor will be in the
     "window colors to customize" field.  When you first enter the "color



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     setup window", the window colors to customize will be the "Main
     Colors".  If you want to change, say, the MENU colors, press [alt-F10]
     to pop-up the "window select" menu.  Pick "Menu Colors" (and the
     "sample window" will change to reflect the current menu colors).

     You can modify each window's foreground (bright characters), midground
     (dim characters), background color, and "reverse" color.

     For example, to modify a window's background color, press [F5] (and
     CheckMate Plus will "toggle" the color).  Keep pressing [F5] until you
     find the color you want.

     Here are the color toggle keys:

               [F3]      Toggle Foreground Color

               [F4]      Toggle Midground Color

               [F5]      Toggle Background Color

               [F6]      Toggle "Reverse" Color

                         Table 13.1: Color Toggle Keys


     Once you've setup all the colors (in all the windows that you want
     to), press [F10] to save your choices to disk.  [ESC] returns you to
     the "Setup" menu.


     13.5  Special Effects


     CheckMate Plus has a lot of "bells and whistles" which are fun to
     watch and pleasing to use.  Some people, however, would prefer to
     modify or turn off their operation.

     You can modify the way CheckMate Plus opens and closes "windows" by
     choosing "Special Effects" from the "Setup" menu.  The "Special
     Effects Setup" window will appear.

     If you don't want CheckMate Plus to give an audible 'opening window"
     click, then set the "do you want sound effects" field to "NO".

     If you want the windows to "explode" and "implode", then leave the "do
     you want exploding windows" field "YES".  Otherwise mark it "NO".





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     You can even set the speed for the exploding and imploding in the
     "speed for exploding windows".  Set this field to "zero" for the
     fastest windows.  Numbers 1 through 9 will gradually decrease the
     exploding speed.  This field will have no effect if you have exploding
     windows turned off!

     Remember to press [F10] if you want to save your setups to disk.


     13.6  Video Option


     CheckMate Plus can display some nice graphical reports (if you have a
     graphics display card in your computer).  You tell CheckMate Plus the
     type of graphics you have when you install it (with the INSTALL
     command... see Chapter 1, "Introduction").

     The five options you have correspond to the following display types:

               CGA       640 x 200 dots, 1 color

               EGA       640 x 350 dots, 16 colors

               VGA       640 x 480 dots, 16 colors

               Hercules  720 x 350 dots, 1 color (monochrome)

               No Graphics (no graphics card installed)

                           Table 13.2: Video Options


     You can't change your video option here.  When you run INSTALL, the
     INSTALL program unpacks the correct "video driver" for your system.
     If you need to change your video option, rerun the INSTALL program
     (See Chapter 1).  Press [ESC] to return to the "Setup" menu.


     13.7  Password Setup


     For security, you may password protect each CheckMate Plus data file
     you create.  Select "Passwords" from the "Setup" menu to reach the
     "Password Setup" window.

     Enter the "password" you want in the "Password" field.  It can be up
     to eight characters long and is not case sensitive.




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     CheckMate Plus won't require a password unless you set the "Require
     Password at Program Start" to "YES" (and save your changes with
     [F10] ).  Once you do this, CheckMate Plus will ask for your password
     before it will let you into the program.

     You'll also not be able to enter the "Password Setup Window" unless
     you know the password.

     + NOTE:  CheckMate Plus associates the password with the data file, so
     reinstalling CheckMate Plus or erasing CMPLUS.OPT (the options file)
     WILL NOT defeat the security!

     If you forget your password, you'll need to send your data files to
     Custom Technologies and we will manually change your password for you.
     We charge a nominal fee for this service.  Call [phone] for
     more information.


     13.8  File Paths


     Selecting "File Paths" from the "Setup" menu causes the "Data and
     Program Directories" window to appear.  This window simply displays
     the currently active program and data file directories (you can't
     modify them here).

     The program file directory is the directory you were in when you
     started CheckMate Plus.  You entered the data file directory on the
     command line when you started CheckMate Plus:

          cmplus <data file directory> <CR>


     13.9  General Setups


     Select "General" from the "Setup" menu to pop-up the "General Setup
     Menu".

     Date Format      You can pick from a variety of "date formats".
                      CheckMate Plus will display all dates in this form.
                      This is a "menu field", so you can press [alt-F10] or
                      the middle button on the mouse to pop-up a menu of
                      choices.

                      You can enter free-format no matter which format you
                      choose.  CheckMate Plus will rearrange the date to
                      match your format.



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     Separator        Some of the date formats have "separators".  For
                      instance, 7/05/90 uses a "/" for a separator.  You
                      can change that separator here.

                      + NOTE:  If you choose the minus sign ("-") as a
                      separator, you won't be able to use the minus sign to
                      "decrement" the date while you're entering or
                      editing.

     Currency Symbol  You may set CheckMate Plus' currency symbol here.
                      You must enter this symbol as an ASCII decimal value.
                      The value for a dollar sign ($) is 36.

     Numeric Format   Accountants tend to avoid using the minus sign to
                      represent negative numbers.  They prefer to enclose
                      the number in parentheses.  CheckMate Plus let's you
                      choose how you want to display negatives.  The
                      parentheses appear only on the reports (and not while
                      entering data).

     After you've set the options, press [F10] to make your changes
     permanent. [ESC] returns you to the "Setup" menu.


     13.10  Report Defaults


     CheckMate Plus has many options for controlling the output and format
     of printed reports.  You can set these options at print time, but you
     can also define default settings (so you don't have to change them
     every time you print a report).

     Select "Report Printing" from the "Setup" menu to pop-up the "Default
     Report Parameters Setup Window".

     Margins          You can set the "margins" (top, bottom, left, and
                      right).  Express the top and bottom margins as a
                      number of lines, and the left and right margins as a
                      number of characters.

                      + NOTE: CheckMate Plus assumes that you're using
                      "fixed width" fonts for your reports (rather than
                      proportionally spaced fonts).  Most printers do use
                      (or at least have the option to use) fixed width
                      fonts.

                      CheckMate Plus does not support "postscript" printers
                      at this time.



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     Paper Sizes      Paper size is a function of the number of lines per
                      page you can print and the number of characters on
                      each line.  These numbers are absolute (i.e. they
                      include margins).

                      Most printers put 66 lines on a page.  Many laser
                      printers, however, require built-in top and bottom
                      margins.  The Hewlett Packard LaserJet, for example,
                      can only print 60 lines per page.

                      The number of characters per line you print will
                      usually be determined by either the width of the
                      paper (most paper is 8.5" wide) or by the "pitch" of
                      the print.  For instance, if your printer has a
                      "compressed" mode (17 characters per inch), you can
                      print 132 characters on a standard letter-sized sheet
                      of paper.

                      + NOTE: You can use the "Printer Setup Strings"
                      (discussed below) to "command" your printer into
                      compressed mode.

     Page Control     You can tell CheckMate Plus to "pause" after each
                      page to let you feed paper (if you're not using a
                      laser printer or continuous feed paper).

     Printer Port     CheckMate Plus lets you direct your printed reports
                      to LPT1, LPT2, COM1, or COM2.  Set your printer port
                      in the "Printer Port for Reports" field.  (This is a
                      "menu field", so press [alt-F10] or the center mouse
                      button to "pop" the menu up).

     Setup Strings    CheckMate Plus lets you define printer "setup" and
                      "exit" strings to control such things as margins,
                      character pitch, attributes, etc.  CheckMate Plus
                      sends the "setup" strings to your printer before it
                      starts the report and the "exit" strings after the
                      report is completed.


                      For instance, you may want to "command" your printer
                      to print 17 characters per inch for some of the
                      reports.  You would enter the proper "control codes"
                      in the "Printer Setup Strings" field.

                      You'll probably want to use the "exit" strings to
                      reset your printer (for normal operation).




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                      The printer control codes can be found in your
                      printer manual.  The format for entry is

                      \<decimal code>\<decimal code>\....

                      The back-slashes delimit the codes.  Here is an
                      example:

                      \27\85

                      This string represents an <ESC> 'U'.  (That's an
                      escape-capital-U).  This is a popular means of
                      defining printer codes.

     To save you default options to disk, press [F10].  [ESC] returns you
     to the "Setup" menu.


     13.11  Report Headings


     When you select "Report Headings" from the "Setup" menu, CheckMate
     Plus opens the "Report Heading Setup Window".

     You can enter up to ten lines of information (and CheckMate Plus will
     center each line as you go).

     CheckMate Plus prints these lines at the top of the first page of each
     report (except for blank lines at the bottom).

     Press [F10] to save your headings, and then [ESC] to return to the
     "Setup" menu.  Press [ESC] without pressing [F10] to abort the changes
     you've made.


















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                                   Appendix A

                              An Accounting Primer


     This short tutorial is intended to give you a start into the world of
     classical accounting.  It is by no means exhaustive, but it should get
     you going.  If you run a small business, this primer will help, but
     you should still obtain a complete text or hire an accountant (or
     bookkeeper) to help you with some of the more difficult subjects.
     Since CheckMate Plus follows standard accounting rules, virtually any
     accounting text will be compatible.  If you're a casual or home user,
     don't be frightened if this primer makes things seem complicated!  For
     home use, the rules of accounting can be can be greatly relaxed.


     A.1  What is Accounting?


     Accounting is the term we apply to the discipline of maintaining
     complete and accurate financial data.  Over the years, some well
     defined practices and conventions have developed.  Adhering to these
     conventions will make your accounting data compatible with other
     people's data, and consequently it will be easier for others to
     understand.  This is what we refer to as "classical" accounting.

     For business, proper accounting can spell the difference between
     success and failure.  The fruits of the accounting system are the
     reports you can generate.  These reports can help you analyze your
     cash flow and make decisions based on past and present performance.
     Having these reports available can you give you the competitive edge
     you need to succeed.  Also, most banks, as well as the IRS, will want
     to see your balance sheet and income statements before doing business
     with you!

     To start, we must divide your holdings, debt, expenses and income.  We
     will group these items under 5 categories:  ASSETS, LIABILITIES,
     EQUITY, REVENUE, and EXPENSES.

     A.1.1  What are ASSETS?

     Assets are money, land, items, etc that you have in your possession.



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     Essentially, they are anything that holds any value.  You do not have
     to own something for it to be an asset.  For instance, the bank may
     hold the deed to your home while you pay off the note.  But since the
     use of the home is under your control, it is still an asset to you.
     We will see below how we can balance this asset with a corresponding
     debt (or liability).  Assets can take many forms.  If someone owes you
     money, for instance, then you have an asset in the form of a note or
     an IOU.

     A.1.2  What are LIABILITIES?

     Liabilities are any debts you owe.  In the example above, we have an
     asset (our home).  But we also owe money against the home, and that is
     a liability.  Not all liabilities need be bank loans.  In a business,
     money we owe to our employees (in the form of pay) is a liability.
     Income tax we owe the government is also a liability, as is rent due,
     etc.  In short, any time we owe money or services we have a liability.

     A.1.3  What is EQUITY?

     Equity is the difference between our assets and our liabilities.  The
     equity in your home, for example, is the difference between the value
     of your home (your asset) and the money you owe (your liability).
     Your total net worth, then, is the delta between all of your assets
     and the total of your liabilities.

     A.1.4  The Accounting Equation

     It is the above relationship that forms the principle behind classical
     accounting.  We can state that relationship as such:

          ASSETS - LIABILITIES = EQUITY

     If we do a little math, we can rearrange the above equation:

          ASSETS = LIABILITIES + EQUITY

     This equation is referred to as the ACCOUNTING EQUATION.  Remember
     it... it is important!

     The principle of this equation is clear.  If you increase your assets,
     then something else has to change to keep the equation true.  Let's
     say you buy a car, and hence increase your assets (you now have a
     car).  To keep the above equation true, you must do one of three
     things:

          1) Decrease another asset (pay cash or trade for the car)
          2) Increase a liability (borrow the money for the car)



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           116






          3) Increase your equity

     The first two options are straightforward and are easily understood.
     The last option is a little more difficult to understand until we
     further explore how we can make changes to equity.

     A.1.5  What are REVENUE and EXPENSES?

     The three categories we discussed above describe your financial status
     in a "static" way.  There is no way to either increase nor decrease
     your net worth (equity) by merely adding assets or liabilities.
     Revenue and expenses provide this avenue.

     Revenue is money you take in, usually in exchange for goods or
     services.  Revenue has the characteristic of INCREASING your equity.
     That is, an asset will increase (such as cash) with NO corresponding
     increase in a liability.  Not all money you take in is revenue.  Money
     you receive in payment of a debt, for example, increases an asset
     (cash) but also decreases another asset (the note you hold).  The net
     effect is that your equity is unchanged.  In the above example, you
     could obtain the new car by working for it, or maybe by winning it in
     a contest.  In either case, we have increased our equity by the same
     amount we have increased our assets (the price of the car).

     Expenses reduce your equity.  A good example is your power bill.  You
     pay the bill with cash, and your assets are reduced.  But you did not
     reduce a liability, and you did not increase another asset.  The
     electricity was consumed!  Whether or not goods or services are
     "consumed" is one good way to tell expenses apart from liabilities.

     In the case of a business or a corporation, you can increase
     or decrease the company's equity in another fashion.  When you sell
     stock, you DIRECTLY increase the equity in the company.  But it is not
     YOUR equity in the company that has increased, but the person who
     bought the stock.  In fact, a company can have many, many owners.
     That is why we will often refer to equity as OWNER'S EQUITY.

     But lets' get back to revenue and expenses.  There is yet another
     relationship we should document here.  This one is more familiar:

          PROFIT (or LOSS) = REVENUE - EXPENSES

     Notice if expenses exceed revenue, we have incurred a LOSS.  Let me
     take a minute to point out that (LOSS) here is in parentheses.
     Accountants typically do not like to use negative numbers, but rather
     indicate a negative amount by enclosing it in parentheses.  In
     CheckMate Plus, we give you the option of using either convention.  In
     either case, the difference between revenue and expenses will tend to



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           117






     either increase or decrease our equity.  Also notice if equity
     changes, then either assets or liabilities must change.  Let's say we
     incur a loss, and equity decreases.  To make the accounting equation
     remain true, we must either draw on assets (maybe take cash to pay the
     loss) or increase liabilities (perhaps borrow money to make up for the
     loss).

     Revenue and expenses are actually only extensions of equity.  We give
     them their own categories since it is useful to treat them separately
     while computing profit or loss.


     A.2  How does it all work in real life?


     To try and tie the above principles together, let's hypothesize a
     small company, called XYZ Shoes, Inc.  We will draw on this example
     throughout the remainder of this primer.


     A.2.1  What are ACCOUNTS?

     Accounts are the accountant's method of separating and detailing
     individual items under each of the above categories.  You can think of
     an account as the dollar value of each item.  We will give each
     account a descriptive name, as well as an account number.

     Accounts are logical entities, and it may be difficult to physically
     separate them from one another.  This is OK, because we don't need
     to... we merely need to track the current value of each account.

     Things may be starting to seem confusing.  An example here is in
     order.  Consider our ASSETS category.  We will use accounts to break
     down and detail the assets of the XYZ Shoe company:

                    Cash:                      1,485.11
                    Checking Account:          1,642.69
                    Building:                101,987.88
                    Inventory:                 9,251.11
                    Pickup Truck:             13,000.00
                    Office Furniture:          4,400.00
                    Office Equipment:          7,550.85
                    Accounts Receivable:       2,264.76

             Table A.1: Assets of XYZ Shoes, Inc as of Mar 1, 1987






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     Each item we listed has become an account.  The total of all the
     listed accounts will be the total assets for XYZ.  Now let's list the
     liabilities and equity accounts:

                    Accounts Payable:         1,345.00
                    Salaries Payable:         3,150.00
                    Sales Tax Payable:          437.25
                    Income Tax Payable:           0.00
                    Mortgage:                84,055.80

           Table A.2: Liabilities of XYZ Shoes, Inc as of Mar 1, 1987


                    Initial Capital:         54,430.53
                    Profit/Loss:                  0.00

             Table A.3: Equity of XYZ Shoes, Inc as of Mar 1, 1987


     We are assuming (for the purpose of this example) that the above data
     was true on Jan 1, 1987.  Profit/Loss is zero, since we have incurred
     no expenses nor made any revenue in the new year.  We will follow
     the example and see how the profit builds.

     If you total the amounts above, you'll see the accounting equation is
     satisfied.  But don't bother just yet... we will prove it in a minute.

     Now lets construct our "Chart of Accounts", which is simply a listing
     of all our accounts.  We will also add our REVENUE and EXPENSE
     accounts while we are at it.





















     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           119






         ------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  XYZ Shoes, Inc
                                    PO Box 0000
                                   Anytown, USA
                                  [phone]

                              "Our Shoes Smell Good"
         ------------------------------------------------------------------
         Chart of Accounts Report                              Mar  1, 1987
         ------------------------------------------------------------------


         1        ASSETS
         10000     Cash                       DB
         10001     Checking Account           DB
         10002     Building                   DB
         10003     Inventory                  DB
         10004     Pickup Truck               DB
         10005     Office Furniture           DB
         10006     Office Equipment           DB
         10007     Accounts Receivable        DB
         10008     Purchases                  DB


         2        LIABILITIES
         20000     Accounts Payable           CR
         20001     Salaries Payable           CR
         20002     Sales Tax Payable          CR
         20003     Income Tax Payable         CR
         20004     Mortgage                   CR


         3        EQUITY
         30000     Initial Capital            CR
         30001     Profit/Loss                CR
         39999     Non-Accounted For Funds    CR


         4        REVENUE
         40000     Sales                      CR
         40001     Misc Income                CR


         5        EXPENSES
         50000     Cost of Goods Sold         DB
         50001     Salary Expense             DB
         50002     Utilities Expense          DB
         50003     Interest Expense           DB



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           120






         50004     Misc Expense               DB


         XYZ Shoes, Inc.                                             Page 1

               Figure A.1: Chart of Accounts for XYZ Shoes, Inc.

     We used CheckMate Plus to print the chart.  See the account numbers?
     The five major categories are numbered '1' through '5', and each
     account under them begins with the same number.  This is a common and
     logical way to number and group your accounts.  The 'DB' and 'CR'
     stand for 'debit' and 'credit'... we are just about to get around to
     that...

     A.2.2  What are DEBITS and CREDITS?

     It makes sense when you use cash to pay a loan, you decrease an asset
     (cash) and decrease a liability (the loan).  It is easy to visualize,
     but not so easy to document.  Accountants use a system of 'debits' and
     'credits' to document the flow of value.  Also, remember accountants
     avoid the use of negatives wherever possible.

     Every account has a balance.  We saw that the sum of the asset
     accounts must equal the sum of the liability and equity accounts.  We
     will say, arbitrarily, that assets have DEBIT balances and both
     liabilities and equity have CREDIT balances.  Therefore, the total
     debit balance equals the total credit balance.

     Whoa!  You may well be wondering how we decided to assign "types" to
     the balances.  It is strictly a way of looking at the data.  If we say
     assets have debit balances and both liabilities and equity have credit
     balances, we have merely transformed the accounting equation into this
     form:

          DEBITS = CREDITS

     Take a minute and let this sink in.  The concept is the same... we
     have just changed the notation.  When you understand the difference
     between a debit and a credit, you'll be over a major hurdle in
     understanding the basic premises of accounting.

     Now lets transform this notation into practice.  An asset carries a
     debit balance.  This means that when we wish to INCREASE the asset we
     must DEBIT the account.  So, if I start with $50 in an account, and I
     make a $100 debit, I now have $150 in the account.

     Most people unfamiliar with accounting may scratch their head at this
     point.  Does it seem backwards?  After all, when the bank DEBITs my



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           121






     account, my assets DECREASE, not increase.  True, BUT the debit is
     from the bank's point of view, not yours!  The debit did increase the
     bank's assets (at your expense!).  That is why we refer to the
     transaction types as BANK DEBITS and BANK CREDITS (in checking
     accounts), so there is no confusion on whose point of view is
     prevailing.

     Conversely, we will credit a liability or equity account to increase
     it.  Can you see that when we want to DECREASE a liability we will
     debit it?  Let's look at the payment of a loan again.  We have two
     accounts...  one called 'CASH' and one called 'LOAN'.  CASH is an
     asset (debit) account and LOAN is a liability (credit) account.  When
     we make payments on a loan, both accounts must decrease (cash is
     obviously less, and now we owe less).  Let's see it work:

          Pay $50.00 cash     (credit CASH $50)
          Lower loan $50.00   (debit LOAN $50)


     See what we have done?  We have credited CASH and debited LOAN, and
     the sum of the debits ($50.00) equals the sum of the credits ($50.00).
     It may still not be crystal clear, but give it a little time.  What we
     have documented above is a TRANSACTION.  The transaction affects the
     balances of our accounts.  As always, we MUST make sure the accounting
     equation is satisfied.  To do this, the transaction must not disturb
     the overall balance of the equation.  Hence, all debit entries in a
     transaction must equal all credit entries in the transaction!

     Incidentally, here is how CheckMate Plus would document the
     transaction.  Notice that the sum of debits and credits do indeed
     equal.

     ----------------------------------------------------------------------
     Date:   Jul  1, 1990
     Acct#   Account Name       Description         Debit        Credit
     -----  ----------------  -----------------  ------------  ------------
     10000  Cash              Payment to LOAN                         50.00
     20005  LOAN              Reduce LOAN               50.00
                                                 ------------  ------------
                                                        50.00         50.00
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------

                         Figure A.2: Sample Transaction

     The above transaction is a "double-entry" transaction since we made
     two entries (to show how the money flowed from one account to
     another).  Now you can see why people call true accounting systems
     "double-entry" systems.  In real life, however, money often flows



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           122






     to and from many accounts in the same transaction.  CheckMate Plus
     will let you make up to twelve entries per transaction.

     Let's see how this would work.  Assume Mr. Jackson walks into XYZ's
     showroom and wants to buy a pair of alligator skin boots with inlaid
     gold and ruby trim.  The price on the shoes (on sale) is $999.95.  Mr.
     Jackson has good credit, and decides to pay $200 cash and make the
     rest in weekly installments of $50.  How would this transaction be
     recorded?

     ----------------------------------------------------------------------
     Date:   Mar 22, 1987
     Acct#   Account Name       Description         Debit        Credit
     -----  -----------------  ----------------  ------------  ------------
     10007  Accounts Receivab  On Credit               849.95
     20002  Sales Tax Payable  5% Sales Tax                           50.00
     40000  Sales              Mr. Jackson                           999.95
     10000  Cash               Down Payment            200.00
                                                 ------------  ------------
                                                     1,049.95      1,049.95
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------

                      Figure A.3: Sample Sales Transaction

     In a single transaction, we have made four entries.  We have increased
     (debited) two assets, CASH and ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE.  We have also
     increased (credited) a liability (SALES TAX PAYABLE) and a revenue
     (SALES).  Mr. Jackson has paid $200 and still owes $849.95 for a total
     of $1049.95 (including sales tax).

     You should take a moment to see how future transactions will develop.
     Every time Mr. Jackson makes a payment on his boots, we will debit
     (increase) CASH and credit (decrease) ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE.  Also, when
     we pay the state our sales tax due, we will credit (decrease) CASH and
     debit (decrease) SALES TAX PAYABLE.  For you folks in business...
     notice how the sales tax never found its way into either revenue or
     expenses?  It shouldn't, since the collection and paying of sales tax
     does not affect our profit or loss!

     Speaking of profit and loss... how much profit did we make when we
     sold the boots?  Well, the cost of the boots falls into the account
     COST OF GOODS SOLD.  But rather than calculate profit on every sale,
     XYZ uses the End-of-Period Adjustment method.  At the end of each
     month, XYZ will take an inventory of all shoes in stock.  The
     difference between the current (closing) inventory and last month's
     (opening) inventory is entered into the journal.  As we make purchases
     during the month, we enter them into an account called PURCHASES.
     Since the change in inventory will include these purchases at month's



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           123






     end, we must also "clear" our PURCHASES while we calculate the COST OF
     GOODS SOLD.

     The difference between the two is COST OF GOODS SOLD for the month.
     To illustrate, suppose XYZ had $9,251.11 worth of shoes at the end of
     February.  At the end of March they had $9,145.00 worth of shoes in
     stock.  During March, they bought $1,628.02 worth of new shoes.  What
     is the COST OF GOODS SOLD during March?

     First, calculate the change in Inventory during the month of March.
     You do this by subtracting the balance of Inventory at the end of
     February from the balance of Inventory at the end of March:

          Inventory at end of February:      9,251.11
          Inventory at end of March:         9,145.00
                                             --------
          Change in Inventory                  106.11

     Now, record the transaction as follows:

     ----------------------------------------------------------------------
     Date:   Mar 31, 1987
     Acct#   Account Name       Description         Debit        Credit
     -----  -----------------  ----------------  ------------  ------------
     10003  Inventory          Change in Inventory                   106.11
     10008  Purchases          Clear Purchases                     1,628.02
     50000  Cost of Goods Sold For March 1987        1,734.13
                                                 ------------  ------------
                                                     1,734.13      1,734.13
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------

                      Figure A.4: Sample COGS Calculation

     The COGS (Cost of Goods Sold) for March was $1,734.13.  I realize this
     is kind of a whirlwind approach to accounting methods.  Remember, this
     is a simple primer designed to get you started off.  There have been
     entire volumes written on accounting, and we can't hope to cover all
     the subjects here.  If you need to do serious business accounting, we
     heartily recommend that you get yourself a good book or an accountant
     to help you!

     Hopefully you now can visualize this subject of debits and credits.
     We also hope you have a grasp on the concepts of profit and loss.  We
     will now pursue that topic in more detail.







     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           124






     A.3  Accounting Reports


     At the end of each accounting period (usually a month or quarter),
     you'll generate a series of accounting reports.  There are two general
     types of reports (ledger and summary).

     Ledger reports are very detailed.  These are your ACTIVITY REPORT and
     your TRANSACTION REPORT.

     In short, the activity report lists all accounts sequentially and the
     debit and credit summary of each.  If you make end-of-month
     adjustments (like the one discussed above for COST OF GOODS SOLD),
     this report will help you collect the figures you need.  The other
     report, your TRANSACTION REPORT, details all entries for the month and
     serves as your permanent record that these entries were made.

     In a "manual" accounting system, you have to POST the each period's
     transactions before you can generate the "summary" reports.  This
     involves transferring all debits and credits for each transaction to
     the corresponding accounts in the ledger.  This can be tedious and
     long!  Thank goodness the computer (and CheckMate Plus) will do it for
     us.  CheckMate Plus actually posts "on the fly" as you create your
     summary reports.  (This is a very powerful feature, as it let's you
     "backup" if you need to!).

     Now let's discuss the "summary reports" (which are the Balance Sheet
     and the Income Statement).  These are the real fruits of all your
     effort in maintaining an accounting system!

     A.3.1  The Trial Balance

     In "manual" accounting systems, accountants generate a "trial balance"
     before they actually "post".  Since CheckMate Plus let's you post "on
     the fly", you can generate this trial balance at any time!

     All a trial balance is is a list of detail accounts and their
     corresponding debit or credit balance.  If everything's OK, the total
     of credits should equal the total of debits.  Accountants use the
     trial balance to make sure no "balancing" mistakes were made while
     entering transactions.

     If the trial balance fails (i.e. debits<>credits), you've must find
     and fix the error before creating a final Balance Sheet and Income
     Statement.

     + NOTE: CheckMate Plus "forces" your books to balance by automatically
     "balancing" transactions that are not "balanced".  It assigns excess



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           125






     funds to a special account (Non-Accounted for Funds).  CheckMate Plus
     will omit this account in the Trial Balance, however, so you can track
     down mistakes.

     Here's a sample Trial Balance for XYZ Shoes:














































     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           126






     ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                             XYZ Shoes, Inc
                               PO Box 0000
                              Anytown, USA
                             [phone]

                         "Our Shoes Smell Good"
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------
     Trial Balance                                             Mar 31, 1987
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------

           Account                                Debit          Credit
     --------------------------------          -------------  -------------
     10000  Cash                                    1,685.11
     10001  Checking Account                        1,642.69
     10002  Building                              101,987.88
     10003  Inventory                               9,145.00
     10004  Pickup Truck                           13,000.00
     10005  Office Furniture                        4,400.00
     10006  Office Equipment                        7,550.85
     10007  Accounts Receivable                     3,114.71
     10008  Purchases                               1,471.98

     20000  Accounts Payable                                      1,345.00
     20001  Salaries Payable                                      3,150.00
     20002  Sales Tax Payable                                       487.25
     20003  Income Tax Payable
     20004  Mortgage                                             84,055.80

     30000  Initial Capital                                      54,430.43
     30001  Profit/Loss

     40000  Sales                                                12,488.79
     40001  Misc Income                                             320.00

     50000  Cost of Goods Sold                     10,537.13
     50001  Salary Expense                          1,200.00
     50002  Utilities Expense                         125.33
     50003  Interest Expense                          128.59
     50004  Misc Expense                              288.00
                                               -------------  -------------
                                                  156,277.27    156,277.27
                                               =============  =============

     XYZ Shoes, Inc.                                                 Page 1

                  Figure A.5: Trial Balance for XYZ Shoes, Inc




     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           127






     A.3.2  The Balance Sheet

     Remember the accounting equation?  The way we prove we have followed
     all the rules is through our BALANCE SHEET.  The balance sheet can be
     very detailed or very general.  CheckMate Plus will generate a balance
     sheet that will list ALL of your asset accounts and show how they
     balance against ALL of your liability and equity accounts.  This is a
     very detailed balance sheet.  If we summarized the data (which you can
     do by customizing your reports), you could produce a general balance
     sheet.  The balance sheet is a snapshot of the company's holdings and
     debt at a given instant.  It does not reflect the passage of any time,
     but rather shows an entity's current worth.

     An example is worth a thousand words.  Below is an example for
     XYZ Shoes.  Notice the total of assets does indeed equal the total of
     liabilities and equity.



































     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           128






     ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                             XYZ Shoes, Inc
                               PO Box 0000
                              Anytown, USA
                             [phone]

                         "Our Shoes Smell Good"
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------
     Balance Sheet                                             Mar 31, 1987
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------

                              BALANCE SHEET
                          (as of Mar 31, 1987)


     * ASSETS

     10000  Cash                                   1,685.11
     10001  Checking Account                       1,642.69
     10002  Building                             101,987.88
     10003  Inventory                              9,145.00
     10004  Pickup Truck                          13,000.00
     10005  Office Furniture                       4,400.00
     10006  Office Equipment                       7,550.85
     10007  Accounts Receivable                    3,114.71
     10008  Purchases                              1,471.98
                                             --------------
        Total Assets                                           143,998.22
                                                           ==============

     * LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

     Liabilities
      20000  Accounts Payable                      1,345.00
      20001  Salaries Payable                      3,150.00
      20002  Sales Tax Payable                       487.25
      20003  Income Tax Payable                        0.00
      20004  Mortgage                             84,055.80
                                             --------------
        Total Liabilities                                       89,038.05

     Equity
      30000  Initial Capital                      54,430.43
      30001  Profit/Loss                               0.00
      39999  Non-Accounted For Funds                   0.00
      plus REVENUE                                12,808.79
      less EXPENSES                               12,279.05
                                             --------------



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           129






        Total Equity                                            54,960.17
                                                           --------------
        Total Liabilities + Equity                             143,998.22
                                                           ==============


     XYZ Shoes, Inc.                                               Page 1

                 Figure A.6: Balance Sheet for XYZ Shoes, Inc.

     A.3.3  The Income Statement

     The Income Statement, on the other hand, does reflect a change from
     earlier period to the present.  It is simply the difference between
     REVENUE and EXPENSES for a given period.  You can create monthly,
     quarterly, and yearly reports, and, like the balance sheets they may
     be very general or very specific.  CheckMate Plus will let you
     automatically create very detailed monthly, quarterly, or yearly
     income statements.  An example (for XYZ shoes) is presented below.
     The data is all hypothetical.































     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           130






     ----------------------------------------------------------------------
                             XYZ Shoes, Inc
                               PO Box 0000
                              Anytown, USA
                             [phone]

                         "Our Shoes Smell Good"
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------
     Income Statement                                          Mar 31, 1987
     ----------------------------------------------------------------------

                            INCOME STATEMENT
                     (Mar  1, 1987 to Mar 31, 1987)


     * REVENUE

      40000  Sales                                 12,488.79
      40001  Misc Income                              320.00
                                              --------------
        Total Revenue                                             12,808.79

     * EXPENSES

      50000  Cost of Goods Sold                    10,537.13
      50001  Salary Expense                         1,200.00
      50002  Utilities Expense                        125.33
      50003  Interest Expense                         128.59
      50004  Misc Expense                             288.00
                                              --------------
        Total Expenses                                            12,279.05
                                                             --------------

        Total Profit (Loss)                                          529.74
                                                             ==============


     XYZ Shoes, Inc.                                                 Page 1

                Figure A.7: Income Statement for XYZ Shoes, Inc.

     These reports are produced at the end of an accounting PERIOD, usually
     a month, and are called End-of-Period Reports.   You'll also want to
     create end-of-year reports, which are essentially reports created
     after your last month and BEFORE you do your end-of-year maintenance
     (discussed below).





     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           131






     These reports offer a wealth of information.  As you produce reports
     each month, you can draw additional information by comparing new
     reports with old.  These reports will also be helpful while
     filing taxes (or surviving an audit) and when negotiating with the
     bank for loans.

     Home users have the opportunity to see trends in their spending and to
     quantify their net worth.  Few individuals or families REALLY know
     where they are financially.  CheckMate Plus can help you make your
     dollars go farther by showing you where they went in the past!


     A.4  Where does it all end?


     We aren't quite finished yet.  There is still one more topic to
     cover... ending the accounting year.  At some point we want to
     consolidate cumulative data and "reset" our books.  This is the end-
     of-year routine.

     We do NOT zero out our current balances at the end of a year.  Rather,
     at the start of any year, our current balance for each account should
     equal the last year's balance for that account.  This makes sense,
     when you think about it, but there is an exception.

     Remember REVENUE and EXPENSES are actually subsets of EQUITY?  We keep
     them separate during the year so we can quickly assess our profit/loss
     picture.  At the end of the year, however, we want to zero the revenue
     and expense accounts and start with a clean slate.

     Anytime we change an account's balance we must make a corresponding
     change to another account (remember the accounting equation!).  In
     order to "zero" our revenue and expenses, then, we must make balancing
     entries to some other appropriate account.  This balancing account is
     usually called "Profit and Loss" or "Retained Earnings." Since the
     profit (or loss) for the year is the difference between revenue and
     expenses, these names are both appropriate.  For this discussion, lets
     call the account PROFIT/LOSS.  This account, by the way, is an EQUITY
     account.

     So what do we do?  Well, we simply transfer the balance of each
     revenue account to PROFIT/LOSS.  Since revenue accounts are CREDIT
     accounts, we do this by DEBITING each revenue account and CREDITING
     PROFIT/LOSS.  So debits and credits are equal, and all revenue
     accounts now have a current balance of zero.

     Now repeat the process with all expense accounts.  Our debits and
     credits are reversed now, however, since expenses are DEBIT accounts.



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           132






     Can you see PROFIT/LOSS now holds the DIFFERENCE between revenues and
     expenses?

     CheckMate Plus automates the end-of-year routines as well.  When you
     start a new accounting year, all you have to do is change the "Fiscal
     Year Start" and CheckMate Plus knows to treat EXPENSES and REVENUE as
     "clean" on that date.  You can assign all previous profits (or losses)
     to a specific account under equity (for the balance sheet).  Now we
     are ready for a new year and can track our profit and loss situation
     independently of previous years' data!


     A.5  Final Thoughts


     I certainly hope this primer has been of some use.  It is not meant to
     be a substitute for formal education, since it is much to brief to
     cover many of the aspects of accounting you'll encounter as you run
     your home or business.  It should give you a push, however, and
     perhaps make talking to your bookkeeper a little easier.































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     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           134












                                   Appendix B

                                Ordering Checks


     CheckMate Plus automatically supports checks from NEBS Computer Forms.
     When you register, you'll receive a package containing ordering
     information along with the printed User's Guide.

     CheckMate Plus supports the following NEBS formats automatically:

          NEBS 9025 (multipurpose check with stub)
          NEBS 9029 (multipurpose check without stub)
          NEBS 9027 (laser check with stub)

     If you want to contact NEBS directly, call NEBS at

          1-800-388-3810

          *IMPORTANT!*  You must give them this mail code number:

          95024

     They can send you information or take your order over the phone.

     We can also send you a sample package with complete ordering
     information.  If you'd like to order checks before you register, call
     Custom Technologies at [phone] and ask for the NEBS sample
     package.  We'll gladly send it to you without any pressure to register
     (we want you to be completely satisfied with CheckMate Plus before you
     pay for it).

     BONUS!  We've made a special arrangement with NEBS Computer Forms.
     When you register (or when you call us directly for check ordering
     information), we'll include a special coupon for 250 FREE "DU-O-VUE"
     window envelopes compatible with NEBS checks.  That's an $18.50 value!
     You must include the coupon with your first order, so contact us
     before ordering (to take advantage of this special offer).  This offer
     is subject to end without notice.






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     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           136












                                   Appendix C

                           How and Where to get Help


     C.1  Technical Support


     Technical support by telephone, mail, or FAX is ordinarily reserved
     for registered users.  We'll help you ONE TIME before you register to
     help install CheckMate Plus for evaluation or to answer general
     questions.

     If you have questions or require technical support, call our technical
     support line at [phone].  Do not call our toll-free order
     number with questions, as the operators there can't help you (they are
     completely unfamiliar with the program's operation).  Our FAX number
     is [phone].

     You may write us a letter if you wish, but we are often swamped with
     letters and it may be some time before you receive a reply.

                               Custom Technologies
                                  PO Box 62118
                        Colorado Springs, CO  80962-2118

     You can also reach us for technical support on CompuServe.  We are
     topic 7 in the PC Vendor A Support Forum.  Just type "GO PCVENA" at
     any CompuServe prompt.

     Technical support is available to all users (registered or not) on
     CompuServe with no time limit.

     If you're not a CompuServe subscriber and would like a FREE IntroPak,
     call 1-800-848-8199 and ask for operator 154.  The IntroPak includes
     FREE sign-up and $15 online credit (so you can explore CompuServe
     without spending a dime!).  This free offer is courtesy of CompuServe
     and Custom Technologies.







     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           137






     C.2  Association of Shareware Professionals Statement


     This program is produced by a member of the Association of Shareware
     Professionals (ASP).  ASP wants to make sure that the shareware
     principle works for you.  If you're unable to resolve a shareware-
     related problem with an ASP member by contacting the member directly,
     ASP may be able to help.

     The ASP Ombudsman can help you resolve a dispute or problem with an
     ASP member, but does not provide technical support for member's
     products.  Please write to the ASP Ombudsman at PO Box 5786, Bellevue,
     WA  98006 or send a CompuServe message via CompuServe Mail to ASP
     Ombudsman 70007,3536.





































     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           138












                                     Index


            [alt-C] 12, 14                audit lock 106
            [alt-F] 12, 14                audit lock password 107
            [alt-F2] 37                   audit trail 106
            [alt-F10] 13, 14              AUTOEXEC.BAT reminder 45
            [alt-J] 35                    automatic "reminder" 44
            [alt-M] 14                    automatic transactions 38
            .end 65
            [F1] 12, 14                   B
            [INS] 14                      Balance 35
            (multiplication 92            balance sheet 127
                                          Balance Sheets 52
            A                             Bank Credit 27
            account number 24, 118        Bank Debit 27
            account status 26             bar graphs 96
            accounting 115                Begin 78, 82
            accounting equation 116,      bottom line 11
               122                        browse 46
            accounting reports 125        browse window 46
            Accounts 21                   budget 24, 67
            accounts 118                  built-in variables 89
               deleting 25
               editing 25                 C
            accounts payable stub 34      calculator 12, 14
            activation date 46            CGA 7, 95, 109
            addition 92                   Chart of Accounts 14, 119
            Address 1 79, 91              check layout 24, 76, 77,
            Address 2 79, 91                 78
            Address 3 79, 91                 designing 77
            addresses 24, 29                 language 78
            alt-A 14                         preinstalled 77
            Amount 79, 91                 Check Number 79, 90
            Amount String 79, 91          check number 24, 29
            ASCII 57, 59                  check printing 34, 38, 75
            ASP 138                       checking accounts 21, 22
            Assets 21, 115                CheckMate 8
            Association of Shareware      CheckMate-GL 8
               Professionals 138          Checks 27
            ATM Deposit 27                checks
            ATM Withdrawal 28                ordering 135



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           139






               printing 75                EGA 7, 95, 109
            Cleared 30                    End 78, 83
            clearing transactions 72      end-of-month adjustments
            colors                           125
               customizing 107            end-of-year routines 133
            Column 78, 82                 Equity 21, 116
            COM1 86                       exit strings 61, 112
            COM2 86                       Expenses 21, 117
            CommasOff 78, 83              exploding windows 108
            CommasOn 78, 83               expressions 91
            Comments 79, 90                  numeric 92
            comments 29, 79                  string 92
            compounding a fixed sum
               104                        F
            CompuServe 137                FillersOff 78, 83
            concatenation 92              FillersOn 78, 84
            contra accounts 24, 28        filter definition 19
            control account 10, 26        filter definitions
            cost of goods sold 124           deleting 20
            Credits 28                       retrieving 20
            credits 121                      saving 19
            currency symbol 111           filter flag 12
            custom reports 63             financial calculations
            custom stub 33                   103
                                          fiscal year 105
            D                             floating point numbers 89
            data entry 14                 For 79, 90
            data file path 9
            Date 79, 89                   G
            date 29                       getting started 9
            date activated                graph type 96
               transactions 41            graphics 95
            Date Cleared 30                  account activity 96
            date format 110                  budget analysis 96
            Date Formats 15                  debt to assets 98
            dates                            debt to equity 97
               entering  13                  detailed expense 97
            Debits 28                        detailed income 97
            debits 121                       expenses by month 97
            Deposits 27                      expenses vs income 96
            detail accounts 21, 22           income by month 97
            directories 110
            division 92                   H
            double-entry 122              hard disk 7
                                          headings
            E                                report 113
            Editing Keys 15               help 10, 12, 14
            editor 16                     Hercules 7, 95, 109



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           140






            I                             notes 32, 36
            income statement 130
            Income Statements 52          O
            Input 78, 84                  operator 18
            insert 12, 14                 order of precedence 92
            installation 7                overwrite 12, 14
            integer 89
                                          P
            J                             Page 78, 85
            Justification 87              Page Control 112
                                          page control 61
            L                             Paper size 112
            laser checks 75, 77           paper size 60
            laser printers 112            parentheses 111
            LaserJet 112                  passwords 109
            Last Date Run 106             past years 105
            Liabilities 21, 116           paste 12
            line graphs 96                Pause 78, 85
            lines per page 60             pausing the printer 61
            loans 103                     PayTo 79, 90
            local menu key 13             pin-feed checks 75, 77
            local menus 13                PRINTED 75, 76
            loss 118, 123                 Printed 30
            LPT1 86                       printer 7
            LPT2 86                       Printer Port 112
                                          printer port 60, 61
            M                             printer strings 61, 112
            margins 60                    PrinterString 78, 85
            mark 30                       printing checks in
            mark transactions 47             "batch" 76
            Marked 79, 91                 printing to a file 59
            Memorize 33                   printing to the printer
            memory requirements 7            58
            Memory status 14              printing to the screen 58
            menu key 14                   PrintTo 78, 86
            menu transactions 38          profit 117, 123
            Menus 11
            Mouse 16                      R
            mouse 7                       real 89
            mouse driver 7                rebuild 99
            MSDOS 7                       rebuild menu 99
            multiple "sets of books"      rebuilding
               9                             accounts 100
                                             complete 99
            N                                index 100
            NewCheck 78, 84               reconciliation 30, 71
            Non-Accounted for Funds       repair 99
               22, 25                     repeat options 41



     CheckMate Plus Introductory User's Guide                           141






            report date 57                split window 36
            report footer 59              statement date 71
            report headings 113           string 89
            report parameters 60          Stub 78, 86
            report title 59               stub 36
            report utilities 59           Stub Layout 33
            reports                       stubs 31
               balance sheet 53           subtraction 92
               chart of accounts 52       summary accounts 21, 23
               custom balance sheet       system requirements 7
               53
               custom income              T
               statement 55               Tax Ded 79, 91
               default parameters 111     tax deductible 29
               designing 63               technical support 137
               general ledger 50          top line 12
               income statement 54        transaction report
               ledger activity 50            customizing 50
               ledger transaction 51      transactions
               options 57                    closing 47
               printing 57                   deleting 37
               reconciliation 72             editing 34
               summary 52                    entering 28
               transaction 49             trial balance 54, 125
               trial balance 54
            Revenue 21, 117               U
            reverse entries 105           upgrading 8
            running balance 36            utilities menu 32, 37
            running CheckMate Plus 8         report 59
            running scripts 45
                                          V
            S                             Variable 78, 87, 88
            savings 104                   variable 18
            screen saver 107              variables 68
            script 45                     Vendor Account Number 90
            scripts 45                    Vendor Acct# 79, 90
            search and filter 12          VGA 7, 95, 109
            Search and Filter             video 109
               Operators 18               virtual paper 57, 58
            Search and Filter Window
               17                         W
            setup strings 61, 112         whole numbers 89
            SkipLines 78, 86              Withdrawals 27
            sound effects 108             working messages 12
            special effects 108           Write 78, 87
            Special Keys 13               Writeln 78, 88
            split 30, 36




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