
















			the~first byte




			Shareware Version  1.0

			User's & Programmer's Guide



























			the pty ltd
		
			PO Box 465
			Market Street
			Melbourne,  Vic. 8007
			Australia.
			100252.765@compuserve.com


		the~first byte is a registered trade mark of the~pty ltd



		
		Copyright 1995 by the pty ltd, Victoria, Australia. All rights reserved.


		Manuals available in Wordperfect(5.1) and Word(6.0) for Windows format 
		upon registration. Please state format required when registering software.

	the~Contents











			1.0     the~first byte - What Is It?    

			2.0     Installing the~first byte       

			3.0     Starting the~first byte 

			4.0     Using the~Setup Facility        

			5.0     Building User Forms     

			6.0     Linking Modules to the~first byte       

			7.0     The~User Executable Program

			8.0     Registration of the~first byte  


				Appendices

			A       Setup File
			B       Form Data File
			C       the~Units File (not in shareware manual)
			D       the~Help File (not in shareware manual)  
			E       the~C++ Proforma Files (not in shareware manual)  
			F       Registration Form
			


	Chapter One      the~first byte - What is It?




	A Program Manager


	the~first byte is a form based user interface that manages the flow of input and output data 
	between the user and an executable program. 


	Form Based Data Entry


	the~first byte interface comprises user defined screen forms. These forms can be formatted 
	to allow data to be entered in specified fields on the form, the data is parsed, saved and made 
	available for read access by an executable program associated with the form. 


	Context Sensitive Help and Data Parsing


	Data fields on a user form can have context sensitive help and properties (dimensional 
	quantities, maximum and minimum values) associated with each data field.  the~first byte 
	runs the executable program associated with the form and subsequently manages (paginate, 
	file and print) the output data.


	Reduces Development Time


	the~first byte allows the program developer to produce a robust application very quickly. 
	Typically 70-80% of development time might be devoted to the coding of a reliable user 
	interface and ensuring data input integrity.  the~first byte takes care of this 70-80% factor, 
	leaving the developer to concentrate on the program application.


	Upgrades Existing DOS Applications


	the~first byte can interface with any pre-compiled software application  (C, C++, Fortran, 
	Pascal, Basic, etc.).  Existing applications can be simply modified to run under the~first byte.


	Easy To Use


	To quickly appreciated the full capability of the~first byte refer to the examples provided on 
	the installation disk.


	Chapter Two      Installation the~first byte




	the~Installation Disk


	The installation disk contains the~first byte system and example files.



	Running The Installation Program


	To install the system place the disk in the disk drive (assumed a:\) and type the following:

	C:\> a:\install                 If default drive is set to c:
	
	Or,

	A:\> install                    If default drive is disk drive a: 
	
	
	The installation program will initialise and prompt you to read the README.TXT file. 
	This file contains information relevant to the installed version, and not covered in the 
	manual.

	The installation program will install the system in directory:  C:\THE  by default. If you 
	want to install the program in another directory then respond when prompted.

	It is recommended that the installation directory is a new or empty directory to assist in 
	good housekeeping of your hard disk.

	The installation program will clean out any existing files and subdirectories in the requested 
	installation directory prior to loading the software, please pause to read confirmation 
	messages if this occurs.
 
	The installation program will proceed only after validating the installation directory.  The 
	installation program uses the compression program PKUNZIP to install the software.


	Installation Directory Structure


	On completion of a successful installation the following directory structure will be installed 
	on your hard disk (assuming the default directory was used).

		C:\THE\FORMS            Form and template files (System and User)
		C:\THE\VER.100          Executable program files (System and User)
		C:\THE\UNITS            Units database and form units files
		C:\THE\HELP             Help files (System and User)
		C:\THE\DBASE            User Database Files
		C:\THE\SOURCE           Example user source code
		C:\THE\MANUAL           Manual


	Path Name


	To run the~first byte from any directory you must amend the AUTOEXEC.BAT file. This 
	file is located in the root directory C:\ (assuming the C:\ drive is the boot disk on your 
	computer).  Assuming you installed the software in the default directory add the following 
	directory path: C:\THE\VER.100, shown underlined in the example, into the PATH command. The 
	PATH command should look something like the following:


	PATH  C:\; C:\DOS; C:\WINDOWS; C:\THE\VER.100


	The DOS editor may be used to edit the AUTOEXEC.BAT file; type the following 
	command at the DOS  prompt:

	C:\> edit c:\autoexec.bat



	SET Command


	The~first byte searches the DOS environment to locate the address of the SETUP.DAT file. 
	Before running the~first byte you must use the DOS SET command to initialise the DOS 
	environment. This is most conveniently done by adding the SET command to the 
	AUTOEXEC.BAT file. The following command tells the~first byte to search the C:\THE 
	directory for the setup.dat file.


	SET THE = c:\the                

	The directory name specified after the equality sign should be the same as the installation 
	path you selected during installation.



	Creating A Windows Icon


	If you are running Windows then you may want to create an application icon for the~first 
	byte.  Follow the procedure below to create an icon.

	Activate the Window you want to add the icon, example the Applications window.

	Select the New command from the File pull down menu.  Select the Program Item option 
	and click OK,

	Complete the following (it is assumed that installation followed the default settings):

	Description:            the~first byte
	Command Line:           C:\THE\VER.100\the.exe
	Working Directory:      C:\THE\RUN

	Click on the Change Icon button and select an icon design. Click the OK button when 
	complete.       


	Chapter Three    Starting the~first byte




	Starting the~first byte


	Before starting the~first byte, it is recommended that the default directory is set to a 
	directory dedicated to saving data and output files created during the session.

	To start the~first byte type the following DOS command after the prompt:

	C:\> the

	Alternatively double click on the~first byte Windows icon; refer to Chapter Two for setting 
	up the Windows icon.
  
	If the~first byte is started for the first time in the current default directory you will be 
	prompted for a new project name. After entering a new project name the~first byte will 
	proceed to the first user program form and wait the next user instruction.  (Note when 
	starting the~first byte for the very first time after installation; an example project and form 
	will be displayed.)


	If the program is started from a directory where the~first byte had previously been run, and 
	a project saved, the user will be presented with a project menu.  After selecting a project 
	the~first byte will proceed to the first user form displaying any previously saved data 
	associated with the current project.



	the~first byte Top Menu Bar 


	The top menu bar appears when a user response is required to be selected from a pull down 
	menu. The top menu bar, shown below, comprises seven command options. 

	File    Module    Edit    Run    Output                 Setup    Help

	To activate any of the seven pull down menus press the key corresponding to the first letter 
	of the command, shown highlighted.  

	The menu commands activate the following pull down menus:


	the~File Command

	File      Module      Edit      Run      Output         Setup      Help
	Ŀ
	 New Project...      
	 Open project...     
	 Save Project...     
	 Save Project As...  
	 Delete Project...   
	 Change Directory... 
	 Quit                
	

	The File menu organises project files and makes them accessible to the user modules. 
	the~first byte does not reference file names and the user is not required to have any 
	familiarity with DOS filename conventions.  Up to ten projects may be saved in one DOS 
	directory. The following selections may be made from the File menu.


	New Project...          selection prompts the user to enter a new project title. The project 
				title is the only reference given to each new project. No filenames 
				are referenced and subsequent retrieval of the project is by the 
				project title only. The project title should not exceed 72 characters. 
				The dialogue box can be cancelled by pressing the <Esc> key.

				After specifying the New Project title the current user form will be 
				reset and the new project title is indicated on the bottom status line.

	Open Project...         selection prepares a menu of all previously saved projects. The user 
				may select a project title from the menu, or cancel the menu by 
				pressing the <Esc> key. If no projects have been previously saved 
				in the current default directory then a dialogue box will prompt for 
				a new project title.

	Save Project            selection saves the current project to disk without further 
				prompting.

	Save Project As...      selection prompts the user for a new project title. The current 
				project data, input and output, will be copied to the new project 
				title.  The dialogue box can be cancelled by pressing the <Esc> 
				key.

	Delete Project...       selection prepares a menu of all previously saved projects. The user 
				may select a project for deletion from the menu, or cancel the menu 
				by pressing the <Esc> key.



	Change Directory..      selection displays a dialogue box requesting a directory name to set 
				as the new current or default directory. Only a correct DOS 
				directory specification will be accepted, the dialogue box can be 
				cancelled by pressing the <Esc> key.  The standard DOS directory 
				naming conventions are adhered. The DOS abbreviated commands 
				are accepted (eg. ..\the\data) 

				The current directory is displayed on the bottom status line.

				Note that only ten projects can be named in each default directory. 
				Changing the default directory will allow further projects to be 
				saved.

	Quit                    selection will exit the~first byte. A dialogue box will prompt to save 
				if the current project data has not been previously saved.



	the~Module Command


	File    Module    Edit    Run    Output                 Setup    Help
	       Ŀ
	        Module_name 1 
	        Module_name 2 
	       
	
	The module menu allows the user to move between user modules. When moving to another 
	module the current form and associated data and results are temporarily suspended and the 
	new module form is displayed. The new module form will display either:  data that was 
	previously suspended during the current session; or restore data from a previously saved 
	project file.  The new module form will display no data if the current project had not been 
	previously saved in an earlier session.

	The current module name is displayed on the bottom status line, prefixed by:  'the~'
	The tutorial program module names are displayed in the menu above.



	the~Edit Command


	File    Module    Edit    Run    Output                 Setup    Help
			 Ŀ
			  Edit   
			 

	The Edit command enters the current module form editor. This editor facilitates module 
	form data entry.

	After striking the return key <xU> the cursor is positioned at the left hand side of the 
	first data field, termed here as the active data field. The text in the active data field is 
	highlighted and can be edited using the keyboard; the following keys have special 
	significance:

	Right Arrow             Move cursor right one character position
	Left Arrow              Move cursor left one character position
	Home                    Move cursor to beginning of text in current data field
	End                     Move cursor to end of text in current data field
	Backspace               Delete character to left of cursor
	Insert                  Toggle character input mode between: Insert and Overwrite
	Delete                  Delete character under cursor

	The active data field will scroll left and right; there is no practical limit to the length of text 
	that may be entered in one data field (less than 16000 characters).

	The following keys shift the cursor from data field to data field. The data fields are 
	sequentially accessed in the priority: left to right and top to bottom

	Down Arrow              Move cursor forward one data field
	Up Arrow                Move cursor back one data field
	Enter                   Move cursor forward one data field

	The following function keys perform the following action:


	Help F1 Pressing the <F1> key will provide a help screen in context with the active 
	data field. Help will only appear if the user form help file has been defined 
	and is resident in the help system directory, refer to the~setup facility. A 
	message is displayed on the screen if the help file does not exist or is not 
	resident in the designated help directory.

	The help screen can be scrolled using the <_> and <-> keys and the 
	<Pg Up>, <Pg Dn> keys. The current row of text is highlighted as you 
	scroll the help screen.

	To cancel the help screen press the <Esc> key to return to the active data 
	field.

	Units F2        Pressing the <F2> key will display a units menu (only if the active data 
			field is expecting a dimensioned quantity).  The <F2> key has no effect if 
			the active data field is a non dimensioned data field.

			The units menu prompts for a new unit of measurement. 

			On selecting a unit of measurement from the menu, the value displayed in 
			the active data field will be recalculated and the new unit of measurement 
			displayed.  
			
			The menu selection will be cancelled if the active data field contains a non 
			numeric quantity.

			The units menu cannot be activated until a numeric quantity has been 
			entered in the active data field.

			The units menu can be cancelled by striking the <Esc> key.

	<Esc>           Pressing the <Esc> key will prompt you to exit the form editor. If a 
			change was made to the form a message will prompt to save changes 
			<Enter> or exit without saving <Esc>.  


	the~Run Command


	File    Module    Edit    Run    Output         Setup  Help
				 Ŀ
				  Run   
				 

	The Run command suspends execution of the~first byte and passes the current module form 
	data to the module program. Depending on the requirement of the module program it may 
	be necessary to run other modules before running the current module.  the~first byte will 
	issue a message to the screen if you run a module out of sequence.

	The demonstration programs included on the installation disk require that the SECT, 
	module is run before the BEAM module. This is because the BEAM module references the 
	database files created by the former.
	
	the~first byte will issue a message on conclusion of the module program execution 
	informing of the success or failure of the process and then return to the current user module 
	form.

	The output generated by the module program can be viewed or printed using the Output 
	command.  The module form data, output and database files can be saved using the File 
	command; this allows the~first byte to be closed and re-opened with the output data 
	remaining accessible without having to rerun the module program.



	the~Output Command


	File    Module    Edit    Run    Output         Setup    Help
					Ŀ
					 View  
					 Print 
					 File  
					

	The Output command allows the user to display the current module output on the screen or 
	send it to the printer. 

	View            Displays the current module output on the screen. The view window only 
			displays output if the current user module has been run for the active project 
			during the current session or the current module output for the active 
			project had previously been saved during an earlier session.

			The view window can be vertically scrolled using the <->, <_> keys 
			and the <Pg Up>, <Pg Dn> keys. Only the first 78 characters are 
			displayed across the window.

	Print           The Print command sends the current output file to the printer via the 
			computer port currently specified in the~setup facility. Refer to Chapter 4 
			for printer setup commands.  

	File            The File command prompts you to specify a legal DOS filename. The 
			current module output data is then paginated and filed under this name.



	the~Setup Command

	File    Module    Edit    Run    Output                 Setup    Help
							       Ŀ
							        Colour    
							        Printer   
							        Directory 
							        Register  
							        General   
							       

	This menu allows you to enter the~setup facility and change the screen colours, printer 
	setup, default directories and register your copy of this software. 

	the~setup facility is also a powerful tool enabling you to design your own module forms, 
	help screens and to add further module programs to the system.

	The following selections may be made from the Setup menu.

	Colour          selection displays a form and prompts, via a menu, to select either default or 
			custom colour settings. Striking the <Esc> key will return you to the 
			current module form.

	Printer         selection displays a form and prompts, via a menu, to select either default or 
			custom printer settings. Striking the <Esc> key will return you to the 
			current module form.

	Directory       selection displays a form and prompts, via a menu, to select either default or 
			custom directories. 

			Striking the <Esc> key will return you to the current module form. 

			There should not be a need to use this menu apart from initial setup of the 
			system, however you can control the location of the module database files 
			using this menu.

	Register        selection displays a registration form. This form can be subsequently 
			completed and printed ready for mailing. The Pty Ltd requests that if you 
			do find this software of use, that you take time to register and access the 
			benefits of registration.

			Striking the <Esc> key will return you to the current module form.

	General         selection accesses the full setup facility, allowing module forms, help screens 
			and units to be defined. You can also add module programs to the system 
			using this facility.  Striking the <Esc> key will return you to the current 
			module form.


	the~Help Command


	File    Module    Edit    Run    Output                        Setup  Help
									     Ŀ
									      File  
									      Module
									      Edit  
									      Run   
									      Output
									      Setup 
									      Help  
									     

	This menu prompts the user to select a top bar pull down
	menu help screen.


	Chapter Four    Using the~Setup Facility




	Starting the~Setup Facility



	the~setup facility can be started from either: the~first byte via the setup pull down menu 
	(Chapter Three) or by typing the following command after the DOS prompt (or using the 
	RUN command dialogue box in the Windows File Manager):

	C:\> the_set

	If the~Setup Facility is started for the first time after installation, the user will be prompted 
	for a new form name. After entering a valid form name the~Setup Facility will proceed to 
	the default screen.

	If the~Setup Facility is started from a directory where the~Setup Facility has been 
	previously used and forms previously saved, then a menu of currently saved forms will be 
	displayed. You should select a form from the menu.  After selecting a valid form the~Setup 
	Facility will proceed to the selected form screen.

	A menu command line will appear on the top line and a status line at the bottom of the 
	screen. The status line informs that: the~Setup Facility is active and the current form name 
	selected.



	the~setup facility Top Menu Bar 


	The top menu command line appears when ever the~Setup Facility awaits a user response. 
	The menu command line is shown below and comprises eight command options. 

	File    Edit    Build    Directory    Colours   Printer Register    Help

	To activate any of the eight pull-down menus press the key corresponding to the first letter 
	of the command, shown highlighted.

	The menu commands activate the following pull down menus:


	the~File Command


	File    Edit    Build    Directory    Colours     Printer  Register    Help
	Ŀ                                                      
	 Add Form ... 
	 Open Form ...
	 Save Form    
	 Delete Form  
	 Quit         
	

	The File pull down menu organises the form files for access by the~Setup Facility.  
	the~Setup Facility does not reference file names and the user is not required to have any 
	familiarity with DOS filename conventions.  Up to twenty forms may be saved. 

	The following selections may be made from the File pull down menu.

	Add Form...             selection prompts the user to add a new form name to the system. 
				The form name must be the same name as the program executable 
				name. For example, if the executable program is called 
				ABCD_1.EXE then the new form must be named ABCD_1.  The 
				form name is used by the system to reference the associated system 
				files (form, help and units files). The form name must not exceed 6 
				characters. You should use only alpha numeric characters. 

				The dialogue box can be cancelled by pressing the <Esc> key.

				After specifying the Add Form name, the current form will be reset 
				and the new form name indicated on the bottom status line.  The 
				default screen will be displayed.

	Open Form...            selection prepares a menu of all previously saved forms. The user 
				may select a form from the menu, or cancel the menu by pressing 
				the <Esc> key. If no forms have been previously saved then a 
				dialogue box will prompt for a new form name.

	Save Form               selection saves the current form and associated system files (form, 
				help and units files) without further prompting.

	Delete Form...          selection prepares a menu of all previously saved forms. The user 
				may select a form for deletion from the menu, or cancel the menu 
				by pressing the <Esc> key.

				The system will request further confirmation that you want to 
				complete the deletion of all system files associated with the form.

	Quit                    selection will exit the~Setup Facility and return to the~first byte.  
				You will be prompted to save all open files if the current form data 
				has not been previously saved.



	the~Edit Command


	File    Edit    Build    Directory    Colours     Printer  Register    Help
	       Ŀ
	        Form Template 
	        User Form     
	       

	The Edit pull down menu allows the user to design and edit form templates and to set 
	properties of a form once compiled. The following selections may be made from the Edit 
	pull down menu.

	Form template           selection opens the form template editor. The editor allows you to 
				design a module form by placing data fields and text on the screen. 
				Once in the editor you can obtain further help, including a map of 
				assigned graphic keys, by striking the <F1> key. Refer to Chapter 
				Five for more information on designing forms.

				Strike the <Esc> key to exit the form template editor.

	User Form               selection allows you to apply properties to a previously compiled 
				module form. A module form must have previously been defined 
				using the Edit-Form Template and Build-Compile Form  menu 
				combinations.

				The properties that can be applied to the module form include:

					Default dimensions and units
					Default minimum and maximum data field values
					Context help information

				Refer to Chapter Five for more information.



	the~Build Command


	File     Edit    Build    Directory    Colours    Printer  Register    Help
			Ŀ
			 Compile Form 
			 Module Links 
			

	The Build pull down menu allows you to compile the form template and add the module 
	form to the~first byte. The following selections may be made from the Build pull down 
	menu.

	Compile Form            selection will compile the current form template. On completion of 
				a successful compilation the compiled module form will be 
				displayed. If the compiler fails, the reason for failure will be 
				displayed in the Message~compile window.  Select Edit-Form 
				Template to correct any errors in the template file before re-
				compiling.

	Module Links            selection will display the modules and database links installed. Use 
				this menu to add newly created forms to the~first byte.

				Refer to Chapter Five for more details on adding modules and 
				defining module database links.




	the~Directory Command


	File    Edit     Build    Directory    Colours    Printer  Register    Help
				 Ŀ
				  Directory 
				  Default   
				 

	The Directory  pull down menu opens the setup directory form.  This form defines the 
	system file directories. After installing the~first byte it should not be necessary to change the 
	system file directories.  The directory form has full context help. 

	The following selections may be made from the Directory pull down menu.

	Directory       selection opens the directory form and displays the current directory 
			settings.

			Use the <Esc> key to exit this form. You will be prompted to save or 
			discard any changes made to the form.

	Default         selection opens the directory form and displays the system default directory 
			settings (which are NOT necessarily the same as the current directory 
			settings or the directories chosen during installation).

			Use the <Esc> key to exit this form. You will be prompted to save or 
			discard any changes made to the form.


	Note that changing the directory names after installation may cause the system to 
	malfunction if: the systems files have not been physically copied to the new directory.


	The System File Directories


	Five directories are designated for access by the~first byte. The directories are defined as 
	follows.

	Executable Files Directory

	This directory contains the executable program files; both system and user supplied 
	executable modules should be copied to this directory.  The default executable file directory 
	designated in the setup file supplied on the installation disk is set to:

	C:\THE\VER.100

	Form Files Directory

	A form file is required for each user program installed, these compiled files are created by the 
	Build-Compile Form  command selection and stored in the form file directory. The pre-pre-
	compiled Form Template files are also saved in this directory. 

	The form file default directory designated in the setup file supplied on the installation disk is 
	set to:

	C:\THE\FORMS

	Each form has an associated pre-compiled template file named "form_name".TMP and a 
	compiled form named "form_name.MSK located in the designated forms directory. 


	Help Files Directory

	Help files can be prepared for each user program and are named "form_name".HLP. All 
	help files are located in the designated help directory. The default help file directory 
	designated in the setup file supplied on the installation disk is set to:       

	C:\THE\HELP

	Units Files Directory

	The UNITS.DAT file contains a database of dimensional quantities, units and conversion 
	factors. This file resides in the designated units directory.

	Each form has an associated units file named "form_name".UNT located in the designated 
	units directory. 

	The default units directory designated in the setup file supplied on the installation disk is set 
	to:  C:\THE\UNITS

	Database Files Directory

	If a user executable program creates a database or intermediate file named 
	"form_name".INT, it is copied by the~first byte to the database directory as 
	"form_name".DBS for future access by other executable program modules. The default 
	database files directory designated in the setup file supplied on the installation disk is set to:
	
	C:\THE\DBASE



	the~Colours Command


	File    Edit    Build    Directory    Colours     Printer  Register    Help
					     Ŀ
					      Colours 
					      Default 
					     

	The Colour pull down menu opens the setup colour form.  This form defines the screen 
	colours. The screen colours, foreground and background, can be selected for forms, menus 
	and dialogue boxes. The colour form has full context help and colour menus. 

	The foreground and background colours may be selected within the form using the colour 
	menu. To open the colour menu strike the <F2> key. The foreground colour menu scrolls 
	and contains 16 colours. The background menu contains only 8 colours. 

	To cancel the colour menu use the <Esc> key. 

	The following selections may be made from the Colours pull down menu.

	Colours         selection opens the colour form and displays the current colour settings.

			Use the <Esc> key to exit this form. You will be prompted to save or 
			discard any changes made to the form.

	Default         selection opens the colours form and displays the system default colour 
			setting. 

			Use the <Esc> key to exit this form. You will be prompted to save or 
			discard any changes made to the form.

			Strike the <F2> key to select a colour from a colour menu.

	
	The colour setup form defines the following colours: 

	the~Colours - Foreground
	
	The valid foreground colours are:       Black           Grey
						Blue            Light Blue
						Green           Light Green
						Cyan            Light Cyan
						Red             Light Red
						Magenta         Light Magenta
						Brown           Yellow
						White           Intense White

	To select a foreground colour use the <F2> function key and select a valid colour from the 
	menu.

	the~Colours - Background

	The valid background colours are:               Black
							Blue
							Green
							Cyan
							Red
							Magenta
							Brown
							White
		     
	To select a background colour use the <F2> function key and select a valid colour from 
	the menu.                

	User Form 

	The user form is the screen designed by the programmer which prompts for input data.  
	System form screens (the~Colours form is a system form) accessed in the setup facility are 
	also affected by this colour selection. 

	Edit Data field          

	The edit data field is the cell or field on the user form where data may be input by the user.  

	Output Screen        
       
	The output screen displays the module output (module.WRT) generated by the user 
	program. The output window is selected from the Output-Screen menu combination in 
	the~first byte.  
  
	Help Screen

	This is a help screen. Help screens are generally accessed using the <F1> function key.  
	Both the System help screens and the user program help screens are affected by this colour 
	selection.
		     
	Top Menu Bar         
	 
	The top menu bar appears on line one (top line) of the screen. This menu bar accesses pull 
	down menus when the user presses the key corresponding to the first letter (highlighted) of 
	the commands listed on the bar. This line is sometimes used as an information bar informing 
	the user of valid key strokes.

	Bottom Status Line   

	The bottom status line appears on line 25 (bottom line) of the screen. This line provides 
	status information;  module name, default directory, row and column information.     
	 
	Pull Down Menus      

	Pull down menus are accessed by striking the first letter (highlighted) of the command listed 
	on the top menu bar. Selection from the pull down menu is made using the up-down and 
	left-right arrow keys.
	 
	Message Box          

	A message box provides user information, requiring no action by the user. The message box 
	is cleared by pressing the escape <Esc> key.

	Prompt Box           

	A prompt box provides user information requiring an action by the user. The prompt box is 
	cleared after supplying the required information or by pressing the escape <Esc> key.
	 
	Error Box            
										   
	An error box provides user information on a preceding error. The error box is cleared by 
	pressing the escape <Esc> key.

	
	the~Printer Command


	File    Edit    Build    Directory    Colours     Printer  Register    Help
							 Ŀ
							  Printer 
							  Default 
							 

	The Printer pull down menu opens the printer setup form.  This form defines the printer 
	setup parameters. The printer form has full context help and printer option menu selections. 

	The printer options may be selected from the printer menu. To open the printer option 
	menu strike the <F2> key. 

	To cancel the printer option menu press the <Esc> key. 

	The following selections may be made from the Printer pull down menu.

	Printer         selection opens the printer form and displays the current printer settings.

			Press the <Esc> key to exit this form. You will be prompted to save or 
			discard any changes made to the form.

	Default         selection opens the printer form and displays the default printer setting. 

			Use the <Esc> key to exit this form. You will be prompted to save or 
			discard any changes made to the form.


	The Printer Setup Parameters


	The printer setup form defines the following printer setup functions: 


	Printer Type

	There are two valid printer types currently available:

		HP Laser 4P
		HP Laser II, III
		Custom
	
	You can select any of the above printer types from the default menu using the <F2> 
	Function key. If your printer is not any of the above listed select the custom option.

	If you select the custom printer mode you can optionally specify the printer setup string 
	using this form, refer - Custom Setup String.

	When you select a printer from the list above the~first byte will set up the printer and apply 
	a default font type.  You may of course change the default font type by specifying the 
	custom printer option and specifying a setup string for the font type you require. Consult 
	your printer manual for defining printer setup strings.
	

	Printer Port          

	The printer port should be set here. The printer port can be selected from the default menu 
	using the <F2> Function key.  Printer port should be LPT1, LPT2,..... etc for a parallel 
	printer connection, depending on which port your printer cable is connected.

	Selecting the_out.prn from the menu will send output to the named file.

	Lines per Page          
	
	This option allows the number of output lines per page to be printed. The number of lines 
	specified here includes the lines required for the header and footer. You can also use the 
	Custom Setup String to specify the page length.

	Default page length is 60 lines per page.

	Proportional Font 

	This option allows you to specify proportional spacing or non-proportional spacing.  This 
	option is not activated if Custom printer is selected.

	The default setting is for non proportional spacing.

	Output Footer 

	The output footer is displayed at the bottom of each page of output. A footer string not 
	exceeding 50 characters may be specified.

	Custom Setup String 

	The set up string defines a non printable string which is interpreted by your printer and, if 
	valid, sets up your printer. The string can be used to select paper size, margins, fonts, and 
	font attributes etc.

	The set up string is only sent to the printer by the~first byte if the custom option was 
	selected, refer printer type. If no string is specified and the custom option has been selected, 
	then the~first byte will continue to print based on the current printer setting which maybe 
	controlled at the printer control panel.

	The setup string is specified by entering the decimal equivalent value for each ASCII 
	character comprising the setup string.

	For example the escape ASCII character <Esc> is input as:    27 
	
	
	the~Register Command


	File    Edit    Build    Directory    Colours     Printer  Register    Help
								  Ŀ
								   Edit  
								   Print 
								  

	The Register pull down menu opens the registration form.  This form allows you to supply 
	your personal details and print a registration form ready for mailing. If you intend to use 
	the~first byte, please give some time and register your copy.

	The register form has full context sensitive help.

	To cancel the register menu use the <Esc> key. 

	The following selections may be made from the Register pull down menu.

	Edit    selection opens the register form.  Use the <Esc> key to exit this form. You will 
	be prompted to save or discard any changes made to the form.

	Print   selection sends the completed registration form to the printer. If you want to save 
	the form as a file, set the printer port to file name the_out.prn, before selecting the 
	Print selection from the menu.



	the~Help Command


	File   Edit  Build   Directory   Colours  Printer  Register  Help   
								    Ŀ
								     File     
								     Edit     
								     Build    
								     Director 
								     Colours  
								     Printer  
								     Register 
								     Help     
								    

	This menu prompts the user to select a pull down menu help screen.


	Chapter Five     Building a User Form




	the~Form Template


	The user form is a form comprising text characters and data fields (or cells) used for data 
	entry.  When writing your own executable program module, the design of the user form is 
	one of the first tasks to undertake. 

	The form template is designed using ASCII characters to describe the location of the data 
	fields and text. The form template is then compiled to create a user form file which is linked 
	to the~first byte.

	After compiling the form template the user form can be edited within the~setup facility to 
	add:  context help, dimensions, units, and maximum and minimum values used to parse data. 

	The location of a data field can be anywhere on the screen, however if the field is to be 
	associated with a dimensioned unit then you should ensure that there are at least 9 character 
	spaces to the right of the field. These spaces are reserved for the unit string. 

	A maximum of 150 data fields or cells and 150 text strings are permitted per form.



	Entering the~Form Template Editor


	Use the~setup facility to create the form template, select the Edit-Form Template menu 
	combination to enter the Form Template editor.



	Form Template Editor


	The form template is 78 columns wide by 23 lines deep. The form template is designed using 
	standard key board characters to define the position of data fields and the location of text on 
	the form.  To assist the form designer, several function keys have been assigned to the 
	alternate IBM character set, this makes it easier to use line draw and fill characters. The key 
	assignments are shown below.


	
	Placing Data Fields on the Form


	Data fields are located on the form by using the 'x' or 'X' character to blank off the area of 
	screen to become the data field.

	Example,                                
				       Columns
			   1         2         3         4         5         6   
	Row       123456789012345678901234567890123456789012345678901234567890
	  1           xxxxxxxx           xxxxxxxx              
	  2                                              xxxxxxxx
		                                         
		      Cell 1         Cell 2        Cell 3 

	Cell 1 starts in row 1, column 5, and ends on column 12
	Cell 2 starts in row 1, column 24, and ends on column 31
	Cell 3 starts in row 2, column 42, and ends on column 49

	If a data field is associated with a dimensional quantity, for example, length, then you should 
	leave at least 9 characters following the field to accommodate the units string (refer to the 
	Edit-Form menu).

	Placing Text on the Form


	Text can be placed on the form by striking the <F4> function key to mark the start and 
	end of the text string.  The <F4> function key inserts the ALT 173 character <> which 
	is used to quote the text on the form.  All text lying between any two <> characters will 
	be displayed on the compiled form.

	Example,

				       Columns
			  1         2         3         4         5         6  
	Row        12345678901234567890123456789012345678901234567890123456789012
		  1    This is cell 1   xxxxxxxx      xxxxxxxx    more text
			                               
			 Text          Cell 1    Cell 2 



	If matching <> characters are not found on the same line when the form is compiled, an 
	error, or warning message will be displayed.

	If a data field is to contain a dimensional quantity, for example, length, then you should 
	leave at least 9 characters following the field before entering text;  the units string will 
	overwrite the nine characters immediately following the field.


	Line Drawing and Fill Characters


	The following function keys can be used to insert graphic characters: lines, fill characters and 
	special characters.

	 ͻ
	  Key    F1  F2  F3  F4  F5  F6  F7  F8  F9  F10  F11  F12 
	 Ķ
	                                                   
	 Ķ
	  Shf't                                        
	 Ķ
	  Ctr'l                                        
	 Ķ
	  Alt't                                        
	 ͼ

	Exiting & Saving The Form Template


	To exit the form editor strike the <Esc> key, if a change has been made to the template file 
	you will be prompted to save changes. To save changes strike the <Enter> key or, to exit 
	without saving, strike the <Esc> key. 

	Saving changes on exit from the form template editor will only save the changes temporarily 
	to allow you to compile the template file using the Build-Compile menu combination. To 
	save the changes permanently you must save using the File-Save Form menu combination. 

	Compiling The Form Template


	To compile the form template select the Build-Compile Form menu combination. This will 
	compile the form, a message box will appear informing of the success of the compilation.  
	If the compilation fails a Message~compile window appears. This window reports all 
	warnings and errors that occurred during compilation.

	The most frequent error you will encounter is the missing <> character at start and 
	termination of a text string.
		
	The Message~compile window will report all errors and warnings and report the line of 
	occurrence.  To exit this window strike the <Esc> key.


	Applying Properties to the User Form


	The user form can have the following attributes applied to each data field on the form:

	       Context Help
	       Type of data to be associated with each field; numeric or text
	       Dimensions and default units
	       Maximum Value
	       Minimum Value
	
	Dimensions and units can only be associated with numeric data fields.  Maximum and 
	minimum values are associated with numeric fields, however these fields can remain 
	dimensionless.

	The following section describes how to associate the various attributes to the user form.



	Context Sensitive Help


	Help screens are generally most efficiently written using a word processor which can assist 
	formatting and spell checking.  The word processed document can then be saved as an ASCII 
	file compatible with the~first byte.

	Creating a Help File Using A Word Processor


	If a word processor is used to prepare the help screen, it is recommended that a non 
	proportional font such as Courier is used and that the margins of the document are set 
	such that a maximum of 78 characters are displayed on any line.  The help file, must be 
	named form_name.HLP and be in ASCII format. If you create your help file using 
	WordPerfect;  you should generate an ASCII text file from the WP document. The 
	WordPerfect sequence is: Ctrl F5, 1, 1, form_name.hlp.  The format for the help file is 
	shown in Appendix D.

	Creating a Help File Using the~first byte


	Alternatively, the help screens may be created using the~setup facility by selecting the Edit-
	User Form menu combination.  This activates the user form as if you were in the~first byte 
	environment. Changing data field is achieved using the up and down arrow keys or the 
	Return key.

	To enter help information position the cursor on the data field to which you want to add 
	associated help information then strike the <F1> key.  A help window titled, 
	help~form_name - 00* will appear (the current data field number is indicated by the 
	asterisk).

	If no help has been previously supplied the message - No help information supplied - will 
	appear in the help window. You can now start to add your help information to the screen 
	via the keyboard.

	To exit the help screen strike the <Esc> key. To confirm your help edits strike the 
	<return> key, otherwise cancel edits using the <Esc> key.  To permanently save the new 
	help file you must select the File-Save Form  menu combination.

     
	Data Type


	By default the data fields are processed as general text data.  If you want to be more specific, 
	and specify that a field can only receive numeric data then follow the procedure described 
	below.

	Numeric with Maximum and Minimum Limits 


	Select the Edit-User Form menu combination, move cursor to the field you want to modify 
	and strike the <F3> function key. A cell properties window will appear, allowing the 
	maximum and minimum values and units to be specified.

	To set the data field to be dimensionless, that is to have no associated units, strike the 
	<F2> function key and select the menu item  *NONE.  Set the maximum and minimum 
	values by entering numeric values in the appropriate fields.  Note that the maximum value 
	must be algebraically greater than the minimum value; otherwise you will not be able to exit 
	this window.

	To exit the cell properties window strike the <Esc> key.

	Numeric with Dimension, Maximum and Minimum Limits 


	Select the Edit-User Form menu combination, move cursor to the field you want to modify 
	and strike the <F3> function key. A cell properties window will appear allowing the 
	dimension, field default unit and maximum and minimum values and units to be specified.

	To set the data field dimension strike the <F2> function key and select the desired field 
	dimension, for example, *LENGTH.  A sub menu will appear listing the units associated 
	with the previously selected dimension. Select the desired default unit, this is the unit 
	quantity that will appear when the form is first used for a new project in the~first byte.  The 
	unit selected will appear in the cell properties window.

	Set the maximum and minimum values by entering numeric values in the appropriate fields. 
	Note that the maximum value must be algebraically greater than the minimum value; 
	otherwise you will not be able to exit this window.

	To exit the cell properties window strike the <Esc> key.  After exiting the cell properties 
	window the unit quantity selected will appear on the user form, to the right of the field.
	
	

	Saving The User Form


	To exit the user form editor strike the <Esc> key and confirm all changes to be saved by 
	striking the <return> key, or cancel your edits using the <Esc> key.

	To permanently save the properties associated with the data fields, use the File-Save Form 
	menu combination. 

	Important Note:  If you proceed to further modify the Form Template by adding further 
	data fields or rearranging the relative position of existing data fields on the form, then any 
	previously associated data field data may be wrongly attributed to the new data fields. 
	Remember, data fields are referenced sequentially starting from left to right and then top to 
	bottom.

	It is recommended that you define cell properties after you have completed formatting the 
	form.




	
	Chapter Six     Linking Modules to the~first byte




	Module Links Form


	The Module Links Form defines the user forms currently installed in the~first byte.  

	To access the Module Links Form first select the Setup-General pull down menu 
	combination in the~first byte, Then select the Build-Module Links menu combination.

	The Module Links Form shows the following columns:

	 Module       Version         Associated Module Database File 1-5
	  Ŀ       Ŀ             Ŀ  Ŀ  Ŀ  Ŀ  Ŀ        
	                              

	Note:   In the shareware version of the~first byte only three user forms can be added to 
	the~first byte. 

	The data fields are defined as follows:


	Module


	The module data field defines the name of the executable program module to be added to 
	the~first byte. The name of the executable program module must be identical to a user form 
	name and must also be a legal DOS filename (without extension).  For example:
	  
	if              BEAM is the name of a user form
	then            BEAM.EXE must be the associated executable program file
      
	Use the <F2> key to select a menu of currently valid user form names.  Note you must 
	first create and compile a user form before adding the form name to the~first byte.  
      
	You cannot exit or change data field if an invalid form name is shown.

	Version Number


	The version number is the current version of the executable program associated with the 
	module form.  Any combination of alpha-numerics, not exceeding 6 characters in length, 
	may be used as a version number.

	
	Associated Module Database File 1-5


	Associated module database files are only required if the executable program added to the 
	system reads from database files created by other executable programs. 
				  
	The name of the associated module database file must be identical to an existing user form 
	name and must also be a legal DOS filename (without extension). 

	The database file name is also the name (without extension) of the executable file that created 
	the database file. For example:
				  
	SECT is the name of an executable file that generated the database file SECT.INT
	
	and

	BEAM.EXE is an executable file that reads data from SECT.INT
				  
	Therefore the Module Links Form would look like:
				  
	Module  Version Associated Module Database Files 1-5            
				  
	BEAM            1.0             SECT                                            
	SECT            1.0    
			    
	Use the <F2> key to select a menu of currently valid user form names.   Note you must 
	first create and compile a user form before adding the form name to the~first byte.  
      
	You cannot exit or change data field if an invalid form name is shown.

	
	Chapter Seven      the~User Executable Program




	Your Software


	Your software is the user executable program - the user executable program is the application 
	written by you and managed by the~first byte.

	There are a few simple rules you must follow when writing your application regarding: file 
	name convention, location and format. These are defined in this chapter.

	If you are a C, or a C++ programmer the proforma code listed in Appendix E and provided 
	on disk will be most useful and speed your development even further.



	User Executable Program and Associated File Names


	Executable File         The executable file is the user executable program and must have the 
	same name as the form name, for example, the form BEAM must 
	have an associated executable file named BEAM.EXE.


	Data File       The data entered in the form is passed to the user executable 
			program by the~first byte, via the file named:

					form_name.BAK

			For example, the form BEAM, passes data to the user executable 
			program BEAM.EXE using the temporary data file BEAM.BAK.  
			The format of the data file is defined in Appendix B. The user 
			executable program must read this standard formatted ASCII file.


	Output File     The user executable program passes output data back to the~first 
			byte using the output file named.

					form_name.WRT

			For example, the BEAM.EXE executable program passes output 
			data back to the~first byte using the temporary file BEAM.WRT.  
			This file must be a standard formatted ASCII file, the number of 
			characters per line should not exceed 78.
		



	Database File   The database file is optional, it allows the user executable program 
			to pass data to other user executable programs you have linked into 
			the~first byte.  The format of this database file is entirely at the 
			discretion of the author of the executable program modules as 
			the~first byte does not read this file.

			The database files are named as follows:

					form_name.INT

			For example, the BEAM.EXE executable program reads the 
			SECT.INT database file name created previously by the user 
			executable program SECT.EXE.


	Message File    The message file allows the user executable program to pass 
			information regarding the success or failure of the module's 
			execution back to the~first byte.

			The message file must be named as follows:

					form_name.MSG

			The file must be a standard formatted ASCII file, the number of 
			characters per line should not exceed 78.



	Executable Program Arguments


	The command line arguments associated with the user program are used to pass the names of 
	the database files required by the executable program.  When the~first byte initiates the 
	execution of a user program it automatically includes the command line arguments. The 
	command line arguments are defined for each module using the Build-Module Links pull 
	down menu combination in the~setup facility.

	For example,  when the~first byte runs the BEAM.EXE user program it executes the 
	equivalent DOS command:

			C:\> beam.exe sect

	In this example BEAM.EXE reads data associated from form BEAM contained in file 
	BEAM.BAK and additional data from database file SECT.INT created by SECT.EXE.

	Up to five database files can be passed via the command line in this way.

      
	Source Code


	For C and C++ programmers a proforma has been provided on disk. The proforma 
	comprises the following source code files:

		proforma.cpp
		filstr.cpp
		mess01.cpp

	and the following header files:

		dbsdata.h
		filename.h
		fclose.h
		general.h
		manip.h
		readata.h
		readset.h
		restscr.h
		savescr.h 

	The code is listed in Appendix E.  Using the proforma will make writing new executable 
	program modules in C++  or C very quick.  To use a proforma copy the proforma file to 
	form_name.CPP  (this is the new main() module) and add your own module code at the 
	location indicated in the file.


	Data field Values


	If you use the supplied proforma code, the form data field values will be read into the data 
	structure element data_in.textdat[150] as text and converted into floating point form (if legal) 
	and stored in the cellval[151] array.

	The floating point value of the first data field on the user form is stored in address cellval[1]. 
	(note in C, the array cellval[0] is the first address of the array, however it is not used here).

	The data field value stored as a floating point number is automatically converted to the SI 
	unit for the data field dimension.  The SI unit is the first unit field defined in the units 
	database file (units.dat) supplied with the installation disk. 

	Example, If the form data field is defined as LENGTH then the value held in the array 
	cellval[] will be converted to metres (m), irrespective of the units currently shown on the 
	form.

	
	File Streams


	The file streams automatically opened in the source code proforma are as follows:

	out     Writes results output to the module output file form_name.wrt

		Example code,

		out <<   "This message will appear in the results file"

	dbs     Write output to the module database file for access by other program executable 
		modules.

		Example,
	
		dbs <<  number  <<  "// the double backslash precedes a comment"

	mes     Writes output to a summary/error file which is optionally displayed on completion 
		of the program executable module.

		Example,

		mes  <<  "The program completed with "  << errcount  << "errors"

	Chapter Eight     Registering the~first byte



	Benefits of Registering the~first byte


	When you register your copy of the~first byte you will receive the following benefits.

		       Receive the latest version of the~first byte with no shareware limitations
		       Receive a full printed manual
		       Obtain support and maintenance via Internet
		       Receive information of all future releases



	How to Register


	You can either: complete the registration form located in Appendix F or use the registration 
	form in the~setup facility.  Please be sure to complete all details.

	The registration fee is structured for users who wish to receive software, manuals and 
	support via Internet and users who want additional disks and hardcopy manuals mailed:

		Country         Internet Service Only           Hardcopy Mailed

		UK and Europe           GBP     25.00             GBP     35.00 
		Australasia              A$     50.00             A$      60.00
		America                 US$     40.00             US$     55.00 

	Payment can be made by credit card (Visa or Mastercard only) or by mailing an 
	International money order for the equivalent registration fee in Australian Dollars.
		
	Mail or e-mail your registration form to:

			the pty ltd
			PO Box 465
			Market Street
			Melbourne, Victoria 8007
			Australia

			Internet        100252.765@compuserve.com
			Compuserve      100252,765

 



				      Appendix A    Setup File





     The Default Setup File - SETUP.DAT


     The  setup  file  supplied on the  installation  disk  is
     listed below:


     c:\the\ver.100\   //  Program executable  module directory
     c:\the\forms\     //  Form file directory
     c:\the\help\      //  Help file directory
     c:\the\units\     //  Units database directory and form units files
     c:\the\dbase\     //  User form database directory
     GREY,WHITE        //  User form colour
     GREY,CYAN         //  Edit cell colour
     GREY,CYAN         //  Output screen colour
     GREY,CYAN         //  Help screen colour
     WHITE,BLUE        //  Top menu bar colour
     WHITE,BLUE        //  Bottom status bar colour
     BLACK,WHITE       //  Pull down menu colours
     WHITE,BLUE        //  Message box colours
     WHITE,BLUE        //  Prompt box colours
     WHITE,RED         //  Error box colours
     'custom'          //  Printer selection
		       //  Printer control string
     lpt1              //  Printer port
      60               //  Lines per page after automatic report pagination
       0               //  Proportional font key 1-proportional font 0 - non proportional  
     the~pty limited   //  The footer string - appears on paginated module output reports



				  Appendix B    Form Data File




     the~Data File Format




     The data file created by the~first byte for each form has
     the format shown in the example below:

	' 200'    0    300    ' GPa     '    1e-09      0
	' '       0    100    ' kg/m    '    1          0
	' '       0    1      ' m4      '    1          0
	' 200'    0    1000   ' mm      '    1000       0
	' 20'     0    100    ' mm      '    1000       0
	' 350'    0    1000   ' mm      '    1000       0
	' 20'     0    100    ' mm      '    1000       0
	' 7850'   0    10000  ' kg/m3   '    1          0
	' 250'    0    1000   ' mm      '    1000       0

	File name -  module_name.dat

     The  example file contains nine lines, one line per  form
     data field.  Each line in the data file corresponds to  a
     data field on the module form. Line 1 corresponds to  the
     first  data  field  on the form.  Form  data  fields  are
     referenced from top to bottom and from left to  right  as
     shown  on  the  screen.  A description  of  the  datafile
     follows:

     Field 1   -    Data field text

     Contains  the  contents of the form data field,  in  text
     format,  as  it appears on the form. The data  is  always
     contained  between  single  quote  characters.   If   the
     contents  of  the  data field contains a  literal  single
     quote  character ' then the datafile will show two single
     quotes  thus:  ''   to  indicate that  it  is  a  literal
     character and not the end of the data field.

     Field 2   -    Minimum value

     This is the minimum value recommended to be passed to the
     user  program.  The  minimum value is  specified  in  the
     current unit system defined by field 4.

     Field 3   -    Maximum value

     This is the maximum value recommended to be passed to the
     user  program.  The  maximum value is  specified  in  the
     current unit system defined by field 4.





     Field 4   -    Units

     This  is  the units system currently shown on  the  form.
     The  units  string  is  nine  characters  long  including
     spaces.

     Field 5   -    Conversion factor 1

     Conversion factor 1 is the factor that the current  value
     (Field  1)  must  be divided by, to obtain  the  SI  unit
     (refer to Field 1 in the units database file).

     Example:       SI_unit  =  field_1 - conversion_factor_2
				
					conversion_factor_1

     Field 6   -    Conversion factor 2

     Conversion factor 2 is the quantity to be subtracted from
     the  current  value (Field 1), before  being  divided  by
     conversion  factor  1 (Field 5) to  obtain  the  SI  unit
     (refer to field 1 in the units database file).

     Example:       SI_unit  =  field_1 - conversion_factor_2
				
					conversion_factor_1

     the~first byte temporarily renames the form datafile when
     processing   user   data  and  running  user   executable
     programs. Therefore the user executable program  must  be
     designed to read the file name:

     module_name.BAK     eg.  BEAM.BAK

     Note:   the~first byte stores project form  datafiles  in
     numerical sequence, for example, the first project listed
     in  the  Open  Project... menu will have  form  datafiles
     named as follows:

     module_name00.DAT   eg.  BEAM00.DAT, SECT00.DAT

     The   second  project  name  listed  will  store   files:
     BEAM01.DAT, SECT01.DAT etc.

				      Appendix C    the~Units File

     Not included in shareware manual

				      Appendix D    the~Help File
     Not included in shareware manual

				      Appendix E    the C++ Proforma File
     
     Not included in shareware manual

     See installaltion directory   .....the\SOURCE for C++ source code
    
			       Appendix F    Registration Form

     Registration Form


 the~first byte Registration Form
 ______________________________________________________________

 Family name:  ____________________________
 First name:   ____________________________
 Other names:  ____________________________

 Company name:      _____________________________

 Company address:   _____________________________
      Suburb:   __________________
      State:    __________________
      Country:  __________________ Zip: __________

    Tel:  ____________________   Email:  ____________________
    Fax:  ____________________

 Number of copies to be registered:  _____________

______________________________________________________________

 For payment by credit card:

 Full name on card:      _____________________________
 Visa or Mastercard:          _____________
 Expiry date:       ______
 Card number:       ______ ______ _______ ______

  I  hereby authorise The Pty Ltd to debit my credit  card  as
  detailed above for the amount A$_____________________________


 Signature:_____________________________      Date:___________

______________________________________________________________

 For payment by bank draft or international money order:

 Please make draft, for amount A$____________ , payable to The
Pty Ltd


 Completed registration form should be forwarded to:

 the~ pty ltd
 PO BOX 465
 Melbourne
 Victoria
 Australia 8007

 Tel:           (61) (3) 9534 5519
 email:         100252.765@compuserve.com

______________________________________________________________
the~first byte -  Version 1.0

 
