                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 1 of 36

               Parent-Teacher Guide For Really Basic BASIC                
                    Copyright (C) 1996-7; Bob McElwain                    



                            TABLE OF CONTENTS                             

Overview: What It's All About - 3

   PART I: How RBB Works - 4
About The Boss: The person in charge - 4
Logging On: How we keep things straight - 5
File Names: Simplifying things for beginners - 5
Lessons: The heart of the matter - 7
Tasks: Where it really happens - 7
Samples: The ultimate hint! - 7
Tech Note: How Samples are loaded - 8

   PART II: Taking Charge - 9

   THE BOSS' MENU: Options briefly explained - 9
Edit Log-On Information - 9
Change User Assignments - 10
Activate Settings - 11
Adjust System Options - 11
Set School Defaults - 11
Change Path To Work Directory - 11
Summary Report - 11
Load Work Director - 12
Delete Files Options - 12
Initialize For New Group - 12
Write Manual To USERMAN.TXT - 13
Print PTGUIDE.TXT - 13
Print RBBLOG.DT - 13
Exit Options - 13

   ADJUST SYSTEM OPTIONS: Global settings for all users - 13
Password Required - 14
Name Required To Sign On - 14
New User Sign Selves On - 15
Ok To List User IDs - 15
On Exit, Return To Log-On - 15
Running On A Network - 16
Screen Saver In Use - 16
Screen Saver Delays - 16
Maximum Tries To Log-On - 17
Diskette Drives Available - 17

   CHANGE USER ASSIGNMENTS: Controlling use of the system - 17
Clock - 19

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 2 of 36

Mouse - 19
MsgColor - 19
Murphy - 20
Password - 20
Printer - 20
Samples - 21
Sound - 21
Tab - 21
UserColor - 22
Time To System Log-Off - 22
Number Of Files Allowed - 22
Number Of Spaces On Tab - 22
Diskette Drive To Be Used - 23
Work Directory - 23

   ACTIVATE SETTINGS: When to introduce what - 23
The Time Factor - 25
The Best Initial Settings - 26
The First Step: Using a diskette - 27
Adding Filename Flexibility - 27
Dropping Use Of The Filename Prefix - 28
Should WorkDir Be Set True? - 28

   PART III: Miscellaneous Items - 29

   Installing On Multiple Systems: Best way to do so - 29

   Using RBBBOSS.EXE: Handy Tools - 30
Use Boss options from RBB - 31
Change Boss' Password - 31
Output All Samples - 31

   Things To Look For: Tips for greater user success - 31
Be Alert For Beginners Struggling - 31
Early Success Fades - 32
System Security - 32

   Technical Notes: For experts only - 33
Icons - 33
FILENAME.$$$ - 33
RBBWIN.EXE And RBBDOS.EXE - 34
Path Names - 34
RBB On A Network - 34

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 3 of 36



         These notes are addressed to the parent or teacher 
     who will direct the work of others.  If you are the only 
     user, all features of Really Basic BASIC are activated. 
     You will have little need for these notes.  However, if 
     you are interested in the structure of RBB or the ideas 
     upon which it is built, please read on! 

                           Tip Top Software 



Overview: What It's All About

     Really Basic BASIC leads users step-by-step as they build a set of 
programs we call lessons.  Upon completion of each, the user is 
encouraged to accomplish at least one, preferably two Tasks.  While less 
specific than those for the lessons, notes provided are sufficient for 
the user to construct his or her own program.  The Tasks for each Lesson 
can be accomplished with tools developed within the current and earlier 
lessons. 
      Accomplishing one or more Tasks is central to success.  It is only 
in these challenges the user faces a blank screen upon which an 
executable program is to be created.  The essence of programming, if you 
will.  While there are exceptions, the first two Tasks extend concepts 
presented within the lesson.  The third and fourth offer greater 
challenge; they often require other knowledge, such as something of 
mathematics. 
      Individual progress is a function of ability, interest and 
imagination.  However, all will succeed, provided the definition of 
success is clear: The ability to write executable computer programs. 
      You will find users require very little support from the guiding 
parent or teacher.  In fact you will discover most come to resent 
intrusion.  They quickly become determined to figure things out for 
themselves. 
      RBB offers the very best of individualized instruction.  If you are 
in a situation bounded by a curriculum guide, as with a first semester 
algebra class in which students need to be prepared for the next one, RBB 
is not for you. 
      Activity is directed, but the user is never pressured to achieve 
this or that goal.  Quite the contrary.  All are invited to linger, to 
explore further.  All are free to accept or reject each challenge 
offered.  While the History report maintained for each user depends upon 
time to describe progress graphically, time is not really a factor. 
      A user acquainted with the concepts presented in a given lesson 
will move quickly through it.  This is not a greater achievement than 
that of another who stumbles badly, and/or repeatedly, but does 
accomplish the task.  Furthermore, a user interested in the challenge 
offered in each Task may choose to complete all four.  To judge success 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 4 of 36

as a function of time would be a grave error and an injustice to users. 
      In the first part of this guide, we will discuss the instructional 
materials included and how to take best advantage of them.  Next we will 
show how to tailor the system to meet the needs of your particular 
situation.  Part three contains useful information to be referenced as 
needed. 
      We hope you enjoy Really Basic BASIC, that you and your charges 
find even greater success than you expected.  We invite your 
participation in its continuing evolution.  User input is fundamental to 
improvements.  We would like to hear your suggestions and criticism.  
Please see Contact Information in the main menu under About RBB or the 
end of the ReadMe file. 



   PART I: How RBB Works

     We begin with a brief description of the Boss' role and an overview 
of how Really Basic BASIC works.  The instructional materials available 
are described with emphasis on how to take best advantage of them.  In 
Part II, we will turn to options available to the Boss for tailoring RBB 
as needed. 


About The Boss: The person in charge

     Throughout this guide, and RBB itself, Boss refers to the person in 
charge.  The one who determines how selectable options are set for others 
who will use the program.  This person may be a parent, teacher, lab 
coordinator, or simply the one assigned the role.  Options available to 
the Boss are discussed in Part II below. 
      As delivered, BOSS is a valid user ID with a null password.  That 
is, when asked for a password, simply press Enter.  This gives access to 
assignments which can be changed to suit.  While there is nothing to 
prevent you as Boss from working through the lessons, you will find it 
more convenient to use a different ID.  

     It will probably take some time to decide what the settings RBB 
assigns to each new user need to be.  We recommend beginning by setting 
school defaults, as described below, then making changes as needed. 

     Recommendation: 

          We suggest a password be assigned to BOSS 
     right away.  So long as it remains null, any user 
     can log on as BOSS, press Enter when asked for a 
     password, then change it.  Once changed, there is 
     no way within RBB to change it again, with out the 
     password as entered.  It can only be changed by 
     running RBBBOSS. 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 5 of 36



Logging On: How we keep things straight

     Each time RBB runs, records saved are reloaded so the user can 
continue from where the previous session ended.  To associate a given 
user with his or her records, a user ID is required.  It is used to track 
progress, guide current activity, and report on achievement.  More 
important it assures user file names are unique to the user, as described 
in the next section. 

     As an aside, the only limit to the number of users is the size of 
your disk.  The record keeping cost for an additional user is less than 
800 bytes of file space.  Early lessons will require fewer than 900 
bytes. And, if you wish, the number of files any user keeps on the disk 
can be limited.  See Number Of Files Allowed. 

     A new user can sign on by typing NEW as a user ID followed by Enter, 
then his or her choice of an ID.  Entry needs to be four alphabetic or 
numeric characters.  Letters can be upper or lower case; the system 
treats all as upper case.  The first four letters of the user's name work 
well; they are easy to remember. 

     User IDs must be unique.  If the entry is already in use, another 
choice is required.  The first four characters of another name, perhaps. 
Or for George, maybe GEO1, GEO2, etc. 

     If Password Required is true, up to sixteen alpha-numeric characters 
can be used as described above for the user ID.  We recommend new users 
simply press Enter when asked for a password.  They can change it later 
when and if a need arises. 

     If Name Required To Sign On is true, the user is prompted to enter 
their last name first, followed by a comma, then first.  This field is 
case sensitive; entry is saved as entered.  As Boss, you will find this 
field helpful in several ways.  The field width is twenty-eight 
characters. 


File Names: Simplifying things for beginners

     While you may choose to set things up differently, RBB is designed 
to hold all user files in a single work directory.  There are two 
problems with this approach.  A file by the name of LESSON01.BAS written 
by Bill will overwrite another by the same name written by Pete.  
Further, if either Bill or Pete asks to see the names of files in the 
directory, he will see them all.  This can be a very long list.  We avoid 
both situations by building unique file names for each user. 

     In all cases, we use the MS-DOS convention of a twelve character 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 6 of 36

file name.  Given FILENAME.EXT,  FILENAME is referred to as the name of 
the file, or name.  And .EXT is referred to as the file name extension, 
or extension.  When a file name is created for a user, the extension is 
always .BAS to indicate it is a program file written in Basic. 

     Whenever a name is created, it begins with the user ID.  The next 
four characters are built according to the purpose for which the file is 
created.  For example, if a user is beginning Lesson #3, LE03 will be 
generated.  While this identifier will be the same for each user, the 
resulting name will always be unique because the user ID is unique. 

     For example, given a user ID of JANE, the names of all her files 
will begin with JANE.  If she is starting Lesson #3, the file name will 
be JANELE03.BAS.  Another user by the same name will not be allowed to 
use JANE as an ID.  She will need to choose something else.  Perhaps the 
first four letters of her middle name.  But if she decides upon JAN2, the 
above file name will be JAN2LE03.BAS, and thus unique.  This assures the 
first Jane can not accidentally overwrite the work of the second.  And 
conversely.  When all files in a directory are listed, names created in 
this way are difficult to read and associate with a given user.  But 
since the user sees only JAN2*.*, there is little difficulty for the 
individual in identifying his or her files. 

     As an aside, there is nothing within RBB to prevent a youngster bent 
on sabotage from exiting the program, then doing as he or she wishes with 
system commands.  If you are facing such problems, you may want to 
consider On Exit, Return To Log-On.  However, given that most users try 
to do the right thing, this feature works well. 

     Prefixing file names with the user IDs serves another useful 
purpose. Hundreds of programs can exist in the work directory.  But by 
asking for only those files beginning with a given prefix, the user will 
see only his or her files listed.  This is particularly important for a 
new user.  A long list of files adds to initial confusions. 

     There is another merit in this design.  As Boss, you have several 
ways of deleting files no longer needed as described below.  But those 
likely to be most useful require file names be prefixed by the user ID so 
they can be associated with a given user. 

     You can delete an ID.  When you request this option, a list of files 
belonging to this user is presented.  If you approve, the ID is flagged 
as inactive and the files are deleted.  Without a unique file name 
prefix, this option is not available. 

     As described below, Number Of Files Allowed can be assigned to limit 
the number of files any user can have on the disk at a given time. 
However, RBB can not monitor this count unless prefixes are being used. 

     If you are working with only a few users, a file name prefix may be 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 7 of 36

unnecessary.  And more mature and/or advanced users may be handicapped by 
this requirement.  As appropriate, it can be suspended.  How to do so is 
described below under Activate Settings. 


Lessons: The heart of the matter

     In each lesson, two or more fundamental computing concepts are 
introduced.  We have kept telling at a minimum.  While we have avoided 
formal definitions as possible, the jargon of computing is freely used. 
The major thrust is: Try this and see what happens.  While the manual 
offers some detail, there is no profound enunciation of theory.  However, 
all is consistent with good programming practice. 

     Throughout, the objective is to assure user success.  Hints abound. 
Ultimately a complete program solution can be examined.  Extensions of 
the lesson are provided in Tasks as described below. 

     About Lessons Available: Since RBB and lesson content continue to 
evolve, a summary of them is not included here.  Assuming you have the 
latest version, please see Looking Ahead in the on-screen version of the 
User Manual.  Each lesson available is briefly described. 


Tasks: Where it really happens

     When a lesson has been completed, a set of four problems called 
Tasks are offered.  While there are exceptions, the solution to the first 
two in each set requires only expansion of the concepts presented in the 
lesson. Each asks the user to take one or more additional steps.  The 
support offered is limited to notes regards these extensions.  The user 
is invited to refer back to the program built for the lesson as a guide.  
The third and fourth Tasks generally require additional knowledge or 
information, often some mathematics.  We recommend the following strategy 
to users. 

     Read through the set.  Ignore those for which the solution seems 
obvious.  Pick the two that seem most interesting and write an 
appropriate program for each.  Write at least one, even if all solutions 
seem obvious, for facing a blank screen and a task to be accomplished by 
writing a program is what programming is all about. 


Samples: The ultimate hint!

     There is a complete program solution provided for each lesson in the 
Samples directory.  While there is nothing to prevent a user from loading 
the appropriate Sample and presenting it as his or her own work, in 
practice, few do so.  What follows is perhaps a clue as to why. 


                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 8 of 36

     RBB is enjoyed by users across a wide spectrum, ranging from the 
very bright to those not so fortunate.  Those interested in most 
everything, to those who seem uninterested in much of anything.  Yet 
given two people identical in type, relative to the preceding comments, 
one may be quietly excited about working with RBB, while the other 
remains indifferent.  While the case for the latter can be puzzling, 
there are clues to the success of the former. 

     Unlike some computerized presentations, there is a lightness most 
find appealing.  There is ample support, even to the point of presenting 
the complete solution.  For the most part users are content to know this. 
 Most will not want to even peek at the solution until they are satisfied 
with what they themselves have produced.  As their confidence grows, most 
become even more determined in this matter.  In very few cases will you 
find the Samples used inappropriately. 

     When a user compares his or her program to the Sample, you will 
often hear the following,  + " + Mine's just as good. + " +   Or,  + " + 
Yeah, I see how they did that. + " +   And sometimes,  + " + Gee.  Wonder 
why I didn't think of that. + " + 

     Thus we recommend the Samples remain available.  However this may 
not be appropriate in your case.  If you face a situation in which this 
won't work, turn off the option to load them, as described below under 
Change User Assignments.  Or delete the files and Samples directory. 

     As an alternative, you may wish to make them available for hard copy 
reference.  There is an option in RBBBOSS to print them.  Or write all to 
a sequential Ascii text file which can be loaded into an editor for 
formatting and output. 

     Another alternative is to delete those users abuse.  For example, 
99SAMPLE.BAS plays a good game of Tic Tac Toe.  If users persist in 
wasting time with this or other Samples, consider copying them to disk to 
be available as needed.  They can then be deleted from the Samples 
directory. While not as interesting, HiLo (16SAMPLE.BAS) may need the 
same treatment. 


Tech Note: How Samples are loaded

     When a Sample is loaded, the path and file name are changed to 
prevent accidental damage to the original file.  While the user can save 
a copy, it is saved to the work directory.  But the naming convention 
allows the user to work with only one Sample at a time, thus assuring the 
disk does not become cluttered with copies. 

     File names for Samples begin with the lesson number to which they 
correspond.  02SAMPLE.BAS is the file related to Lesson #2.  When this 
file is loaded, the path is changed to that of the work directory.  And 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 9 of 36

the user ID replaces the first four characters in the name.  Given an ID 
of BILL, 02SAMPLE.BAS becomes BILLSAMP.BAS.  Thus if Bill loads 
03SAMPLE.BAS after finishing Lesson #3 and chooses to save it, it will 
overwrite any previous Sample for a lesson.  That is, 02SAMPLE.BAS, 
03SAMPLE.BAS, 04SAMPLE.BAS, etc, are all changed to the same name: 
BILLSAMP.BAS.  Saving the current file overwrites any such previous file. 



   PART II: Taking Charge

     Access by users to features within Really Basic BASIC is controlled 
by assignments made to a set of variables described below.  These 
assignments can be changed to suit particular needs. 

     RBB is a simple system.  However, the number of assignments required 
adds complexity.  While some may be very important to you, most will not 
be.  We therefore recommend beginning by setting school defaults.  They 
have proved effective in a variety of situations.  As you observe users 
running RBB, it will soon become clear how you want things done. 

     If you want to make changes and RBB is to be installed on multiple 
systems, see Installing On Multiple Systems under Miscellaneous Items.  
It suggests an alternative to making these changes on each system 
separately. 



   THE BOSS' MENU: Options briefly explained

     The following options are available when you log on as the Boss. 
After entering the required password, you will be asked if you would like 
to do some work.  If not, RBB continues to the workspace as it does after 
any log on.  Else you will be able to any of the following. 


Edit Log-On Information

     Provides for adding, editing and deleting user log-on information. 
When adding or editing a user ID, the corresponding password and name can 
be entered or changed.  If an ID is deleted, associated files can also be 
deleted.  Details are provided below under the above heading. 


     When this option is selected in the Boss' Menu, it brings up a 
second menu in which the options are to Add a new user, Delete a user, 
and Edit user data. 

     If New Users Sign Selves On is true as described below, a new user 
can sign on by entering NEW followed by Enter; there will be no need to 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 10 of 36

use Add A New User.  It is provided for those who choose to enter all 
required information.  There is nothing to prevent a youngster from just 
pressing Enter when asked for a name, thus leaving the field empty.  And 
if you have a number of charges, you will need this information.  Given 
problems, you may be forced to make these entries yourself. 

     Changes can be made with Edit User Data.  If an ID entered does not 
exist, you will be given the option to list the set.  If there are more 
than can be loaded, only those which begin with the same first character 
entered will be displayed.  If password and name are not required, all 
that can be dealt with is the user ID. 

     If Password Required is true, the existing password is presented.  
It can be changed.  Or it can be noted and reported back to the user if 
he or she has lost track of it.  However, there is an easier way to deal 
with the latter case.  When asked for a new password, just press Enter.  
This stores a null or empty password.  The user can be directed to press 
Enter when asked for a password.  It can be changed with this option in 
the main menu. 

     As with Password Required, the name field is presented only if Name 
Required is true.  Entry in this field is case sensitive.  That is, input 
is saved as entered. 

     The delete option will be most valuable to those working with a 
large number of users who seem to come and go.  Upon entering a user ID 
to be deleted, associated files are displayed in directory format.  If 
you approve deletion, the ID is flagged as inactive and associated files 
are deleted.  As in editing, if the ID entered is not found, you will be 
offered a list of them.  Unless file names are prefixed by the user ID, 
files created by the user will not be found, and thus can not be deleted 
with this routine.  For further delete options, see Delete File Options 
below. 


Change User Assignments

     Provides for changing assignments for a particular user or for all 
subsequent new users.  For example, you may decide you do not want the 
printer to be used.  Set Printer false.  RBB will deny access.  If later 
you want to allow Johnny to use it, enter his user ID and set Printer 
true only for him.  Conversely, if Printer is true for all users and Jim 
is abusing the privilege, set Printer false specifically for him.  
Details are provided below under the above heading. 


Activate Settings

     Four features can be introduced and briefly described as users work 
through the lessons.  This option allows you to select the lesson number 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 11 of 36

at the end of which a particular feature is to be introduced.  For 
example, by entering 4 for Diskette, you direct RBB to introduce usage of 
a diskette and drive at the end of Lesson #4 before continuing to Lesson 
#5.  Any feature can be turned off by assigning a lesson number greater 
than the number of lessons available.  Or it can be turned on immediately 
by assigning a lesson number of zero.  Details are provided below under 
the above heading. 


Adjust System Options

     Provides for adjusting assignments which apply to all users.  For 
example, if Password Required is set true, all users will be required to 
enter a password when logging on.  These options apply to all users 
immediately after being saved.   Details are provided below under the 
above heading. 


Set School Defaults

     Take this option to set the recommended defaults for schools in 
order to better evaluate the program for school use. It also serves as a 
convenient panic button.  If you have made changes and have become 
confused, or feel you would like to start over, select this option.  The 
defaults will be reassigned without disturbing user data.  However, the 
new assignments will apply only to new users signing on.  To make changes 
for those already using RBB, enter user IDs as appropriate and save for 
each individually.  For details, see Change User Assignments and Activate 
Settings described below. 


Change Path To Work Directory

     Select this option to change a user's work directory.  The two 
current files tracked by RBB will be moved to the new directory.  If you 
wish, other files existing in the previous directory can also be moved, 
provided the file names are prefaced with the user ID. 


Summary Report

     This option produces a brief description of the progress of each 
user on the system.  It is written to the RBB directory as REPORT.TXT, an 
Ascii text file that can be loaded into an editor or word processor for 
examination or output.  After the file is created, RBB offers the option 
to print it. 

     For each user, the name is output, if available, followed by the 
User ID and the total hours recorded.  For each lesson in which the time 
reported is greater than zero, a summary is provided as follows. 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 12 of 36


                             7: 65+1  4 

     The lesson number is followed by a colon (:), followed by the time 
recorded as being spent on the lesson in minutes.  Time of a hundred or 
more minutes is reported as 99 in order to hold field width.  The time is 
followed by a plus (+) sign if all notes in the lesson and the Sample 
were loaded else a minus (-) sign.  A number, 1 though 4, is output to 
represent Tasks flagged as completed.  Fields for those not flagged are 
left blank. In the above record for Lesson #7, 65 minutes was recorded, 
all notes and the Sample were loaded, and Tasks #1 and #4 were reported 
as completed. 


Load Work Director

     Loads a listing of files in the work directory.  You many find this 
handy when deciding on files to be deleted in order to make more room. 


Delete Files Options

     When disk space is limited, consider these options to recover what 
is needed by deleting user files selectively.  If you choose to delete by 
size, all files larger than what you enter are deleted.  This is a 
convenient way to erase those that are clearly not serious work or were 
created with a runaway program in some way. 

     You may also delete files created prior to a date entered.  This 
allows erasing files no longer needed, such as those belonging to users 
who have left the program, or files remaining from the work of an earlier 
group.  If you are really squeezed for disk space, you may want to 
periodically delete all files older than a week, month or whatever. 

     These options can be applied only to the work directory.  However, 
there is no consideration of user IDs.  Only the file date and size is 
referenced. 


Initialize For New Group

     Take this option to delete all files in the work directory and 
reinitialize records to their original state.  When the routine 
completes, the system will be as when installed, except that any changes 
made by the Boss are carried into the new files.  If directories other 
than the work directory need to be purged, it must be done directly. 

     NOTE: This option is available only in RBBDOS and RBBBOSS.  And the 
program must be run in MS-DOS.  When Windows is running, there are a 
couple of things that need to be done that Windows does not allow. 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 13 of 36



Write Manual To USERMAN.TXT

     Writes a copy of the on-screen manual to the RBB directory as 
USERMAN.TXT.  This Ascii text file can be loaded to an editor or word 
processor for examination and/or output.  There is also an option for RBB 
to print it. 


Print PTGUIDE.TXT

     PTGUIDE.TXT is an Ascii text file that can be loaded to an editor or 
word processor for output.  This option sends a copy to the printer. 


Print RBBLOG.DT

     If something goes wrong, information is gathered and written to this 
file.  It is an Ascii text file; it can be loaded into any editor or word 
processor for examination or printing.  This option provides output if 
needed. 


Exit Options

     When signed on as the Boss, you may exit RBB with Esc, continue to 
the workspace as normally occurs upon log on, or return to the log-on 
procedure where the system will wait for another user.  If you want to 
work with the lessons, you will find it more convenient to use a 
different ID. 



   ADJUST SYSTEM OPTIONS: Global settings for all users

     The following assignments are global.  That is, when saved they 
apply to all users immediately.  In general, they need to be set to suit, 
then ignored.  The table below includes the initial settings or defaults 
assigned on Set School Defaults.  Below we will explain what each option 
means. 

                  SYSTEM OPTIONS 
        Password required           TRUE 
        Name required to sign on    TRUE 
        New users sign selves on    TRUE 
        Ok to list user IDs         TRUE 
        On exit, return to log-on  FALSE 
        Running on a network       FALSE 
        Screen saver in use        FALSE 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 14 of 36

        Screen saver delays            0 
        Maximum tries to log-on        4 
        Diskette Drives Available     AB 
          TEST: Check Screen Saver 
          SAVE: Assign the above for use 

     NOTE: If changes need to be made on a number of systems, please see 
Installing On Multiple Systems under Miscellaneous Items for suggestions 
for doing so easily. 


Password Required

     If you are working with a small number of users, requiring a 
password may be unnecessary.  But in a classroom or lab situation, we 
recommend doing so.  It provides a convenient way for a user to protect 
his or her work from prying eyes or sabotage. 

     Recommendation: 

          Set Password Required true, but suggest 
     beginners simply press Enter when asked for one. 
     Then, if problems appear, or a user wishes to 
     guard his or her work more closely, a password 
     can be installed. 


Name Required To Sign On

     This field is used as the sort order in presenting the Summary 
Report of user activity.  It will be useful primarily to teachers dealing 
with a large number of users.  The individual History report, a graphical 
picture of progress, is more effective when concerned about only a few 
users. 

     Further, when editing or deleting a user ID, this field offers 
additional assurance regards the user data with which you are working.  
If it is empty or blank, nothing is reported.  Particularly when deleting 
IDs and related files, the display of the name field leads to more 
accurate decisions. 

     Recommendation: 

          Use this option if you will have need to 
     delete files periodically or plan to use the 
     Summary Report.  If used, require last name 
     first so the report will be presented in 
     alphabetical order. 



                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 15 of 36

New User Sign Selves On

     When this option is true, a newcomer can sign on by typing NEW, then 
Enter.  You can turn this option off by setting it false.  In which case, 
new user information is entered only by you.  This may be required with 
youngsters unable or unwilling to enter data in the desired format.  To 
do so, use Add A New User under Edit Log-On Information in the Boss' menu 
as described above. 

     Recommendation: 

          Unless you have a specific need as 
     suggested above, leave this option true. 
     It allows new users to sign on by themselves. 
     We recommend, however, someone who knows the 
     system assist in the process, and on into 
     the Guided Tour. 


Ok To List User IDs

     When this option is true, a user who enters an incorrect ID will be 
invited to view a listing of all IDs.  This is the same routine available 
to the Boss in editing user log-on information.  It will be particularly 
useful with younger users.  So long as Password Required is true, the 
user will be the one to determine the level of security needed.  So long 
as there are no problems, he or she can continue to use Enter only, then 
install a password should the need arise.  With large numbers of users, 
it may be best to set this option false, thus halting curious 
exploration. 

     Recommendation: 

          If a password is required, set this 
     option true and leave it to the individual 
     user to control security with their password. 
     If a password is not required or you are 
     working with a large number of users, it may 
     be best to set it false. 


On Exit, Return To Log-On

     When set true, only the Boss can truly exit RBB.  User records are 
updated upon any request to exit, but RBB branches back to the log-on 
procedure where the system waits for another user to sign on.  This is 
convenient, particularly with younger users, still troubled by the task 
of executing a program. 

     There is an occasional side benefit to setting this option true.  A 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 16 of 36

mischievous youngster bent on raising havoc must reboot the system in 
order to exit and get to system commands, and thus to the playground.  
While RBB can not prevent he or she from doing so, this option makes 
rebooting the system easier to spot. 

     Recommendation: 

          If RBB is to remain up and running on a 
     given computer all or a large part of the day, 
     set this option true; it simplifies things for 
     users logging on.  However, if RBB will only be 
     run as needed, leave this false.  If true, you 
     will have to log back on as the Boss and exit, 
     or reboot the system to run another program. 


Running On A Network

     If you are running on a network, set this option true.  RBB can not 
of itself, detect this condition. 


Screen Saver In Use

     What we call a screen saver is really meant to serve as a flag 
within a busy classroom or lab to indicate a computer is not in use.  As 
a true screen saver, it leaves something to be desired.  Set this option 
false, if you do not need this feature or already have an effective 
screen saver in place. 


Screen Saver Delays

     As mentioned above, the screen saver provided is more a flag than 
anything else.  You may find the squares pop up too rapidly, creating a 
somewhat hyper mood.  This is a function of the speed of the computer and 
software in use.  The rate at which new squares are drawn can be slowed 
by assigning a value here.  For example, if a value of 2 is assigned, 
there will be a delay of approximately 0.1 seconds between the drawing of 
squares.  A factor of 10 adds approximately a quarter of a second delay. 
The TEST option at the bottom of the menu starts the screen saver.  It 
will shut down on any keystroke.  After making a change, use this option 
to see if you like the effect of the factor entered. 


Maximum Tries To Log-On

     This value is the limit to the number of tries a user is allowed in 
entering a user ID and password before the program exits.  A youngster 
goofing off will be noticed by those near by, for the system does not 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 17 of 36

behave in this way for any other reason.  It may also assist the Boss in 
spotting such behavior.  But if On Exit, Return To Log-On is true, RBB 
branches back to the log-on procedure.  Thus while creating a pattern of 
screen displays easy to spot, this limit is of little use in preventing 
mischievous behavior.  However, controlling behavior is not its primary 
function.  It is meant to support new users signing on. 

     On early failure for whatever reason, a short prompt is sent to the 
message box.  If Ok To List User IDs is true, a listing of them is 
offered on the second and subsequent errors.  At two less than this 
value, a message suggests asking a friend or the Boss for help.  At this 
value, a different message makes specific suggestions.  On an additional 
fail, execution ends, if On Exit, Return To Log-On is false, else RBB 
branches back to the log-on procedure. 

     Recommendation: 

          The default value is four.  This provides 
     two notes to the message box, followed by the 
     sequence described above.  You may wish to try 
     five or six, if dealing with younger users.  Or 
     three, if dealing with older ones.  To bypass 
     this exit feature, set this value arbitrarily 
     high.  Perhaps 99. 


Diskette Drives Available

     Include here the letter of any drive a user may need to use a 
diskette.  When Diskette is true as described below, and a user requests 
a change in the disk drive, these letters are checked.  The user will be 
allowed to use only those drives indicated here. 

     Recommendation: 

          Enter all appropriate specifiers.  If a 
     particular drive is not available on a given 
     system, the user will be so informed. 



   CHANGE USER ASSIGNMENTS: Controlling use of the system

     When the above option is selected in the Boss' menu, the following 
is displayed.  These are the initial or default assignments made when 
school defaults are set.  When a new user signs on, these assignments are 
copied to the new records created.  A new user will be bound by them. 


                  USER ASSIGNMENTS 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 18 of 36

      Clock      Turn clock on or off   TRUE 
      Mouse      On/off; pick button    TRUE 
      MsgColor   Select message colors  TRUE 
      Murphy     Access Murphy's Laws   TRUE 
      Password   Allow change password  TRUE 
      Printer    Allow use of printer   TRUE 
      Samples    Allow use of Samples   TRUE 
      Sound      Turn sound on or off   TRUE 
      Tab        Set spaces on Tab      TRUE 
      UserColor  Select colors to suit  TRUE 
      Time to system log-off              10 
      Number of files allowed             99 
      Number of spaces on Tab              3 
      Diskette drive to be used            B 
      Work Directory             C:\RBB\WORK 
           SAVE: Assign the above for use 


    NOTE: If changes need to be made on a number of systems, please see 
Installing On Multiple Systems under Miscellaneous Items for suggestions 
for doing so easily. 

     Prior to the above screen coming up, you will be asked if you want 
changes to apply to all new users or to a specific user.  Once you have 
decided how you want things set up, there will be little need to adjust 
these factors, unless a change is needed for a specific user. 

     For example, if you find Tom is abusing the printer, you may want to 
enter his ID here and turn the printer off for him, leaving it on for 
others.  Or conversely, if the printer is off for all users, you may want 
to turn it on for a specific user.  To do so, select the above option, 
choose to work with a specific user, enter the appropriate ID, change the 
printer setting by selecting it, and save. 

     If you are working on a network, changes made do not take effect 
until the user logs on again.  Current settings were read when the user 
began the session; they remain unchanged.  Thus if you want a new setting 
for a user presently logged on, you need to make the change, then ask the 
user to quit and log on again. 

     Key Point: Since these assignments are made when a new user signs 
on, any change made for all users will apply only to those who sign on 
after the change is made.  If you make such a change, and want it to 
apply to users already using RBB, it must be made specifically for each 
one. 

     Think of the first set of assignments above as options that are 
either true or false.  On or off, if you prefer.  Consider sound, which 
in this context means the beeps accompanying certain messages to the 
user.  As the Boss, you can set Sound true or false for all new users.  

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 19 of 36

If it is true, the user can choose to turn the sound on or off.  If you 
set it false, it will be off and the user will not be able to turn it on. 
 This holds for other assignments noted above as true.  We will discuss 
the meaning of each item below, including values appropriate for the 
latter items shown. 

     We recommend all settings be true so all options are available.  
This allows the user to be a part of the presentation as something more 
than a listener or follower of directions.  As mentioned above, any 
option can be turned off for a user abusing it in some way. 

     These items are not equally important.  Some will be significant in 
your situation.  Many will not be.  One or two may even seem trivial. 
However, each was created in response to a stated user need or 
observation of large numbers of users in classrooms and lab situations.  
Those items not important to you can be ignored.  RBB functions well with 
any choice of settings. 


Clock

     For most, it lightens up the screen some way.  And it is effective 
with some youngsters as a reminder the hour is slipping away.  However, 
it has no deep or hidden purpose.  If this option is set false, it will 
be off and the user will not be allowed to turn it on. 


Mouse

     Unless there is no mouse available, we recommend this option be set 
true.  It serves two purposes.  First, the user can turn the mouse off if 
it fails in some way.  All response required can be made from the 
keyboard. 

     Second, as delivered, a click on any button is valid.  Some users 
are not comfortable with this.  They prefer one, but not both buttons 
hot.  If this assignment is true, the user can choose to suit. 

     Note this option is not available in RBBWIN, for Windows controls 
the mouse.  Further, unless a mouse driver has been installed with the 
system, the mouse will not be available in RBBDOS. 


MsgColor

     The colors for most messages are selected randomly from sets of 
colors that work well together.  We use this approach to add a bit of 
spice and variety to what can become an awesome flow of information. 

     However, some users find this annoying.  We recommend this option be 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 20 of 36

set true so the user can select specific colors for messages, in much the 
same manner as colors are selected for the workspace. 


Murphy

     We included Murphy's Laws for much the same reasons we included the 
clock, random colors and icons in message boxes.  It all tends to lighten 
up the rather bleak screen often associated with computerized 
instruction. 

     But there is a further purpose here; users find them supportive.  As 
they progress, many sayings relate directly to their own work.  Apart 
from this, they are an integral part of computer lore.  This aside, some 
find them frivolous.  Choose to suit. 


Password

     Note the difference between this option and Password Required as 
described above.  If Password Required is true, a user logging on will be 
required to enter one, if only Enter.  This option allows a user to 
change his or her password as needed.  While this may not be important to 
all users, it does allow a given user to guard his or her work a bit more 
closely, should the need arise.  This option is meaningless, however, 
unless Password Required is also true.  If Password Required is false, a 
password will not be requested during log-on. 


Printer

     If a printer is available, leave this option true so users can print 
listings and direct output from within their program to the printer.  
Hard copy is such an essential part of computing, it is a must, really, 
particularly as programs become more complex.  Examining a listing can be 
the very best way to spot errors and note ways in which it can be 
improved. However, if a printer is not available, or you wish to deny 
usage, set this option false. 

     An Aside: LPRINT is the command used to direct program output to the 
printer.  If Printer is false, LPRINT commands are ignored.  However, 
users should be encouraged to include such statements, for they will be 
needed if a printer does become available, or the program is run with a 
compiler. 

     RBB does not send program output to the printer on each LPrint 
command as a compiler would.  Instead, all output is written to USER.PTR, 
where USER is the user ID.  At the end of the run, this file is sent to 
the printer if appropriate.  Since it is an Ascii text file, it can be 
loaded in the workspace.  Viewing what printer output may be sufficient 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 21 of 36

in many cases. 

     Using A Common Printer: In a computer lab in which there are only a 
few printers, a user can save his or her program or USER.PTR to a 
diskette. At a system with a printer, a listing or output is available by 
typing at the MS-DOS prompt: PRINT A:\FILENAME. 


Samples

     The Samples are complete program solutions.  One is provided for 
each lesson.  We recommend they be available to all users.  If you wish, 
however, set this option false to deny access.  Or delete the files in 
the Samples directory, and the directory itself.  Alternately, set this 
option false for anyone using them improperly. 


Sound

     If this option is true, users may turn sound on or off to suit.  In 
this context, sound refers to the beeps accompanying certain messages 
output to the screen.  Set this option false to turn sound off and deny 
users the option to change the state. 

     Note: This command can hang in RBBWIN.  By this, we mean it can 
trigger a continuous sound that is annoying.  In such a case, it makes 
sense to set this option false. 


Tab

     Please do not confuse this setting with Number Of Spaces On Tab 
further down the list, which assigns the number of spaces to be inserted. 
This assignment determines whether or not users can change the spacing. 
That is, if Tab is true, a user may set the number of spaces a press of 
the tab key produces. 

     Note the tab key works a bit differently in RBB than in most 
editors. It causes a move to position.  Only if spaces are needed to fill 
to this position, are they added.  That is, tabbing over text makes no 
change in that text.  In tabbing from the beginning of an empty line or 
from the end of a line, appropriate spaces are added. 


UserColor

     Since colors are largely a matter of personal preference, we 
recommend this option be left true.  Selecting one's own colors 
immediately personalizes the environment.  It tends to increase user 
interest. 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 22 of 36



Time To System Log-Off

     If the History report, the graphical picture of user progress, is to 
have much meaning, it is important to turn off accumulation of time at 
some point.  A user may be called away from the computer, forget to quit, 
and so forth.  The school default for this factor is ten minutes.  If 
this amount of time passes without a keystroke, the user's work is saved 
and records are updated. 

     If On Exit, Return To Log On is true, RBB returns to the log-on 
screen, an indication the computer is no longer in use.  If Screen Saver 
is true, it is launched.  Else program execution ends. 

     Recommendation: 

          Fifteen, or even twenty minutes, may be 
     more appropriate for more mature and/or older 
     users.  To deactivate this feature, set the 
     value arbitrarily high.  Perhaps 99 minutes. 


Number Of Files Allowed

     The number of files a user may have on the disk can be fixed.  If 
this limit is reached, and a new file is needed or a save by a different 
name is requested, names of files already on the disk are offered as in a 
directory listing.  The file selected will be deleted to make room for 
the new one. This count can not be maintained unless Prefix is true as 
described below. That is, unless file names are prefixed by the user ID, 
files can not be counted. 

     Recommendation: 

          If disk space is a problem, set Number 
     Of Files Allowed.  Seven will be enough for 
     most users, if they are entitled to use their 
     own diskette.  Also be sure Prefix is true as 
     described below so file names will be prefixed 
     by the user ID. 


Number Of Spaces On Tab

     Users are encouraged to use the tab key to indent within blocks of 
code to improve readability.  As delivered, this value is set to two, 
meaning a press of the tab key adds two spaces.  If Tab is true, as 
described above, the user may change this value to suit. 


                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 23 of 36


Diskette Drive To Be Used

     If you are in an environment in which users can access the same 
diskette drive on all systems in use, set your preference here.  However, 
if Diskette is true as described in the next section, users will be able 
to choose from Diskette Drives Available.  The purpose of this assignment 
is to set a default to simplify things for beginners. 


Work Directory

     The path to the work directory can be up to 42 characters in length. 
It needs to be a complete path to an existing directory.  Beyond these 
two conditions, there are no other requirements. 

     The initial assignment for this path is established when RBB is 
installed.  You will need a new assignment to this field only if you 
decide to use a different directory for user files.  Alternately you may 
wish to assign a different path for specific users, as to each of a group 
of serious users who can benefit from sharing a separate directory. 



   ACTIVATE SETTINGS: When to introduce what

     There is a line to be considered here.  Drift too far to one side 
and users will feel trapped, unduly restricted, and so fourth.  Move too 
far to the other and beginners may become unnecessarily confused by being 
expected to deal with too much too soon.  Neither result encourages 
positive attitudes or continued success.  So what are the best 
assignments for the options available within RBB? 

     While this question is appropriate to the settings previously 
discussed, it is even more so here.  Assignments described earlier are, 
for the most part on or off.  Here we add the question of when to do 
what. 

     Given the range of options, it is impossible to define a set of 
initial settings suitable to the needs of all.  While a lot of thought, 
experience and user input lie behind the school defaults, they remain 
little more than a guesstimate of some hypothetical norm which does not 
in fact exist. 

     Your choices are bound to be more appropriate to your situation than 
the defaults.  Fortunately no decision is critical.  It is only a matter 
of making assignments sufficient for RBB to effectively support your 
needs and those of your charges. 

     What needs to be dealt with here is when to change the initial 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 24 of 36

settings for four interrelated items.  First and foremost is Prefix, 
which is initially true.  While true, it dictates file names be prefixed 
with the user ID.  When set false, file names can be freely created 
without a prefix.  This brings loss of simplicity in loading the 
directory of files and in disk management. 

     The remaining three items are initially false.  Users will not be 
able to use a diskette until Diskette is set true.  They won't be able to 
select file names until AnyName is set true.  And they will be restricted 
to the work directory until WorkDir is set true. 

     Recommendation: 

          If you are using RBB for the first time, 
     we recommend using the school defaults.  If 
     you find a need to make a change, you will be 
     able to do so with confidence at a later date. 


     The following are the initial values or defaults assigned for these 
interrelated items when school defaults are set.  The numbers indicate 
the lesson to be completed before the feature becomes available.  The 
Time Factor is an exception, discussed below. 


                    ACTIVATE SETTINGS 
   Item    Less #  Comment 
   AnyName      7: Needed for mature or advanced users 
   Diskette     4: Earlier if security a problem 
   Prefix      20: Needed for easy file identification 
   WorkDir     99: Change path to work directory 
   Time Factor 50: Minutes expected to complete lesson 
             SAVE: Assign the above for use 
              ESC: Ignore changes and exit 


     As shown in the table above, Prefix, which is initially true, 
remains so until the user finishes Lesson #20.  Use of the diskette will 
be introduced at the end of Lesson #4 at which point Diskette will be set 
true.  Users will be able to create file names after finishing Lesson #7 
when AnyName is set true.  But since Prefix remains true, file names 
selected will be prefixed by the user ID, whether saved to the hard disk 
or to diskette. 

     Prefix will be set false or turned off at the end of Lesson #20.  
The user will then be able to use any legal MS-DOS file name.  If the 
work directory is crowded, you will probably want to assign the user to a 
different directory at this point, perhaps one shared with other advanced 
users.  If School defaults are used, WorkDir will never be set true. 


                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 25 of 36

     If you want to hold the initial state for an item, assign an 
arbitrarily large number.  Given the defaults, WorkDir will not be 
presented because there is no Lesson #99.  If you wish a feature to be 
available immediately, assign a lesson number of zero.  The appropriate 
state will be assigned when a new user signs on, but the feature will not 
be introduced.  Getting started is already sufficiently cluttered. 

     All introductions are specific to the individual user.  If the 
lesson number of Diskette is 4 and James has finished the lesson, he will 
be able to use one.  If Sally is still working on an earlier lesson, she 
will not. 

     When a user finishes a lesson, the values assigned as shown above 
are checked.  If the number of the next lesson is greater than the value 
assigned, and time logged is sufficient, the feature is introduced.  It 
will remain available to the user thereafter. 

     Any adjustments needed will generally be made prior to the arrival 
of a new group of users.  But any item can be changed at any time.  As 
with User Assignments however, the change will apply only to new users.  
Again, specific changes can be made for particular users.  To turn off a 
feature for a user abusing it, assign an arbitrarily large number. 

     What follows is a description of these factors and how they 
interrelate.  As suggested above, it may be best to forego changes if you 
are new to RBB.  The defaults work well in most situations.  After 
observing users for a time, you will be able to decide with confidence 
what changes are appropriate to your environment. 


The Time Factor

     When a user asks to continue, RBB checks the time spent on the 
lesson and the Tasks reported as completed.  If, according to some rather 
arbitrary factors, the time logged seems inadequate or no Task has been 
noted as completed, there is some gentle nudging.  But the user who 
wishes to continue is allowed to do so.  In fact a user is free to go to 
any lesson without restraint.  Thus we need a time factor. 

     As delivered, the Time Factor is fifty minutes.  This value 
approximates the time needed to complete each of the early lessons.  This 
is a completely arbitrary assignment; we recommend you reset it to suit 
your sense of the following. 

     Consider use of a diskette.  As assigned above, this feature will be 
introduced at the end of Lesson #4.  We then want RBB to point out a 
diskette can now be used, offer explanation, and invite the user to try 
it. 

     But if a user rushed through the first four lessons with little more 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 26 of 36

than a glance, we might be skeptical of the readiness to handle this new 
feature.  To detect this possibility,  RBB checks both lessons completed 
and the total time logged in doing so.  If the total time is not 
sufficient, introduction is delayed. 

     At the beginning of each session, and in going to a new lesson, the 
following formula is used to check for an item to be introduced.  We 
assume here use of a diskette is to be made available at the end of 
Lesson #4 and the Time Factor, the time expected to be needed to complete 
each of the first four lessons, is 50 minutes. 

     If Lesson #4 has been completed, a minimum of 4 * 50 or 200 minutes 
are expected to have been logged.  When the user reports Lesson #4 has 
been completed, the total time logged is checked.  If it exceeds 200 
minutes, use of a diskette is introduced.  If not, RBB continues to check 
each time the user logs on.  Diskette usage will be introduced when total 
time exceeds 200 minutes. 

     Clearly a different Time Factor is required for a group of bright 
high school seniors than for fifth graders.  But what the value ought to 
be, we must leave to you.  It is arbitrary at best.  And not very 
important.  The idea is to introduce features over time.  To extend the 
period between introduction of features, consider increasing the Time 
Factor.  And conversely. 


The Best Initial Settings

     The best setting for beginners are file name prefix true with 
AnyName, Diskette, and WorkDir false.  These are the school default 
settings.  All file names are prefixed with the user ID.  Thus no matter 
how many files exist in the work directory, users will see only their 
own.  All files needed will be created; users will not be able to create 
their own. 

     Early on, while programs are small, this is not a significant 
handicap.  If a user wishes to create a second copy of current work in 
order to explore, the content of an earlier file no longer needed can be 
deleted, and the current work entered in whatever form.  Thus there is no 
need in the early stages to save or load files by user defined names.  
And no need to see any directory but the one in which the user's files 
exist. 


The First Step: Using a diskette

     Allowing use of a diskette is a logical first step.  Setting this 
option true allows saving current work to a diskette and loading it as 
needed.  Usage is subject to the settings of Prefix and AnyName.  While 
AnyName remains false, only files created by RBB can be saved or loaded. 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 27 of 36

And file names must be prefixed with the user ID. 

     For the purpose of backing up work, immediate implementation of this 
feature is not very important.  Early lessons build modest sized program 
files.  Most can be reentered within a reasonable amount of time.  
However, if there are security problems, as with malicious youngsters 
destroying the work of others, activate this option very early on.  
Perhaps even from start. 

     If a drive is available, there is little reason not to use it.  With 
the proliferation of PCs, many users will have access to one.  If there 
is a Basic installed on this PC, users will be able to work outside the 
classroom.  Even without a system available, many users will cart this 
disk about with a great deal of pride. 


Adding Filename Flexibility

     Setting AnyName true allows users to save current work by a 
different file name, open a new file, and delete an existing file.  The 
first two options make it easy to explore by working with two or more 
copies of the same program.  Serious users of all ages need this 
capability at some point.  And they need the ability to delete files no 
longer needed.  When AnyName is true, the Files menu is available with 
Ctrl+F: Save With New Name, Open A New File, and Delete A File. 

     While Prefix remains true, however, file names must begin with the 
user ID.  Thus the user's option in naming a file is limited to creative 
use of four characters.  So long as Prefix remains true, files created 
will be easy to find, even in a crowded directory.  Further, the option 
to delete files is limited to those prefixed with the user ID. 

     While .BAS is the conventional extension for Basic program file 
names, the user will be free to use this field as needed.  There are a 
host of viable options such as ROSSBALL.TMP and ROSSBALL.LST. 

     When set true, the number of files on the hard disk will tend to 
grow more rapidly.  You may want to consider limiting the number of files 
each user can have on the disk.  If users have access to a diskette, as 
few as seven files on the hard disk is quite workable.  When a new file 
is created, or the user asks for one, the value assigned to Number Of 
Files Allowed is checked.  If the user has already reached this limit, 
the current list of files is offered and the user is asked which one 
should be replaced.  Note this checking can only be done so long as 
Prefix remains true. 


Dropping Use Of The Filename Prefix

     So long as users share the work directory with others, Prefix should 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 28 of 36

remain true, else it can be extremely difficult, even impossible for 
users to find their files.  Consider an example. 

     Suppose six people are using RBB on a given system throughout the 
day. Also assume that each builds three program files in each lesson; one 
for the lesson itself and another for each of two extras.  If so, there 
will be eighteen files created in each lesson, nearly a hundred 
accumulated when all have finished the fifth lesson.  It is unreasonable 
to expect beginners to deal effectively with such a long list. 

     Even given the tools available to limit the number of files in the 
work directory, finding a file saved without a prefix can be a tedious 
chore.  For younger and/or immature users, it may be wise to hold Prefix 
true indefinitely.  Serious users, however, will need to freely choose 
complete file names at some point. 

     Note there is little point in turning Prefix off until AnyName is 
turned on.  For until it is, access to the Files menu on Ctrl+F is 
denied. The user will have no way of entering a file name. 

     An Aside: RBB always uses the user ID as a prefix when creating 
required files regardless of the setting of Prefix. 


Should WorkDir Be Set True?

     WorkDir may be the most problematical of the items above.  
Situations in classrooms and computer labs vary greatly.  In many cases, 
giving users access to the entire disk can lead to problems.  However, 
you may need to do so.  Or you may be in a situation in which there is no 
reason not to. In which case, do it. 

     Whatever the case, there is likely to come a point at which a user 
needs a personal directory.  Or at least the option to share one with a 
few like-minded users.  In which case, WorkDir can be set true and the 
user allowed to change the path accordingly.  However, there is an 
alternative if you wish to use it. 

     As Boss, you can change the path to the work directory for a 
specific user.  If you do so, there is no need to set WorkDir true.  
Select User Assignments in the Boss' menu, enter the user's ID, a path to 
the new directory, then save it.  While it takes a bit of time, it does 
protect the rest of the files and directories on the hard disk. 

     On the other hand, if you are working with serious minded users who 
can be counted on not to mess where they are not supposed to, then set 
WorkDir true.  The user can then change his or her own path and all 
directories on the disk will be available. 

     All files are saved or loaded by the file name preceded by the path 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 29 of 36

to the work directory.  To change directories, the path must be changed 
in the main menu.  This does not prevent users from abusing the system, 
but it dampens the risk of accidental damage. 



   PART III: Miscellaneous Items

   Installing On Multiple Systems: Best way to do so

     If you are working with only one or two systems, you may find it 
quite easy to install RBB and make needed changes in user settings on 
each one. But if you need to install on several systems or want to make 
lots of changes, doing so on each computer individually is time consuming 
and may lead to errors.  Here is a better way.  What it amounts to is 
preparing three files on one system, then copying them to all others. 

     If RBB is not already installed on each system, run the setup 
program on each.  But do not run the program.  If you do, you will need 
to approve the warranty, enter license information and so forth.  What 
follows makes this unnecessary.  Just install and say no to the option to 
run. 

     If RBB is already installed, the only purpose to the following 
procedure is to implement changes made.  Note this will not work if 
people are using the program, for it will wipe user records.  This needs 
to be done during the initial install or just prior to the arrival of a 
new group of users. 

     On a given system, install RBB.  If it is already installed, go to 
the Boss' Menu and select the option to Initialize For A New Group.  Note 
this procedure does not alter any changes you have made. 

     Make all changes required as described earlier in these notes. 
Include selection of colors if you wish.  You may want to sign on with a 
dummy ID and check to see all settings suit your needs. 

     When you are satisfied all is well, exit RBB and go to the directory 
in which RBB's files were installed.  In what follows, assume the path to 
this directory is C:\RBBASIC.  This being so, you can move to the 
directory by typing at the MS-DOS prompt: CD C:\RBBASIC. 

     Note the above and what follows assumes you are working in MS- DOS. 
The procedure can be executed in Windows, but it takes a good deal more 
time. 

     Insert a blank formatted floppy disk or diskette in a drive.  For 
these notes, assume this is drive A. 

     If the diskette is not blank or empty, a modification of this 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 30 of 36

procedure will work, but it is more tedious.  We recommend there be no 
files on the diskette and will assume this is so in what follows. 

     Now copy three files to the diskette: RBBINIT.DT, RBBRECS.DT, and 
RBB.CFG.  You need to be in C:\RBBASIC and there needs to be a blank 
diskette in drive A.  The following commands can be used. 

           COPY RBBINIT.DT A: 
           COPY RBBRECS.DT A: 
           COPY RBB.CFG A: 

     Now these files need to be copied to each system in use.  At each 
computer in turn, load the diskette in drive A and do so.  The following 
commands will do.  Begin by moving to the directory in which RBB is 
installed. 

           CD C:\RBBasic 
           COPY A:\*.* 

     The last command copies all files from the diskette in drive A into 
C:\RBBasic.  The files you prepared will replace those installed, and 
each system will be set up in the same way.  If this is a new install, 
the warranty approval, license information, and so forth, will also exist 
on each.  A new group of users will work with the settings you have made. 


   Using RBBBOSS.EXE: Handy Tools

     RBBBOSS.EXE supports classroom and lab environments in which RBB is 
installed on a number of systems.  If you are working with only one or 
two users, it is unlikely you will need it.  Essentially it provides the 
same set of options available to the Boss within RBB.  However, it 
provides two additional options.  You can read the Boss' password and 
change it, without knowing what it is.  And the Samples can be written to 
file or printed. 

     Caution: This program should not be installed on any system.  It 
should be left on the diskette delivered, and run from this diskette, or 
a copy, as needed.  It gives access to the Boss' options without password 
control.  If a mischievous youngster can get to it, a lot of work can be 
erased with a couple of keystrokes. 

     Below we will describe the tools available.  Please note that while 
RBBBOSS will run in Windows, it is not a Windows program. 


Use Boss options from RBB

     This opens up the Boss' Menu as it is provided within RBB and 
described in Part II above.  It is included here for those who find it 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 31 of 36

convenient to work from a diskette, rather than within RBB.  Anything you 
can do as Boss within RBB can be done with this option. 


Change Boss' Password

     For security reasons, there is no way to change the Boss' password 
within RBB unless it is known.  This option reports the current password, 
in the event it has been lost, and allows entry of a new one. 

     An Aside: In a situation in which destructive youngsters abound, you 
may want to consider entering sixteen garbage characters as a password 
for Boss and forget about using it within the classroom or lab.  Since 
the Boss' menu is available here, you are not required to use RBB 
directly. RBBBOSS can be run on any system at any time, giving you the 
full range of options available within RBB. 


Output All Samples

     There are two options here.   + " + Print Samples + " +  sends a 
copy of each Sample in the SAMPLES directory to the printer, each at the 
top of a new page.   + " + Write Samples To File + " +  collects all 
files to SAMPLES.TXT in the RBB directory.  They are written 
consecutively without page breaks.  This Ascii text file can be loaded to 
and processed by an editor or word processor. 



   Things To Look For: Tips for greater user success

Be Alert For Beginners Struggling

     As in many learning situations, the most common point of failure in 
using RBB is in getting started.  If a user does not follow suggestions 
or finds all too confusing, or does not take it seriously , or ....  This 
list, of course, is endless. 

     You may find a few suggestions made personally are sufficient to get 
the user back on track.  But likely by the time the problem has become 
obvious, more will be needed.  The best technique we are aware of, is to 
ask another youngster you can count on, to help out a little.  While this 
is effective in many forms, assigning a user a little further along to 
watch after a newcomer or a user who is struggling is very effective. 

     If all are getting started at the same time, as at the beginning of 
a new semester, you will have no one further along who can be asked to 
help out.  In such a case, pairing youngsters off can be effective, with 
each assigned the task of making sure the other is being successful.  If 
this is set up informally, perhaps according to the seating arrangement, 

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 32 of 36

the pairings can be allowed to wither.  Within a few days, there will be 
at least a couple of standout students who will be able to assist those 
still struggling, and new arrivals. 


Early Success Fades

     A few cautions are built in, but the user is allowed to continue to 
the next lesson upon request.  Thus he or she may be skipping ahead 
without realizing mastery of some important tools has been passed over.  
This can usually be spotted with a quick look at the History report.  
Insufficient time spent on the last two or three lessons suggests 
skipping ahead may be the problem.  If this is so, and the youngster can 
be assured there is no penalty in going back to work with a previous 
lesson, and he or she does so, difficulties are often resolved. 


System Security

     Unfortunately there always seem to be those within a classroom or 
lab environment more interested in disrupting everything than much of 
anything else.  Some take great delight in destroying the work of others. 
 Unless you have sophisticated software installed or a network 
arrangement that denies access to MS-DOS and/or Program Manager, there is 
no way to prevent such behavior.  RBB provides protection only for the 
accidental actions of a beginner and to some extent, the mischievous 
interests of the novice. But only while it is running. 

     For serious students, individual directories work well, better if 
system password protection is available.  Some have reported good success 
using directory names of digits only.  It is more difficult to glance 
over another's shoulder and quickly grab eight to eleven digits.  A user 
who can get at these directories still must decide which world to 
conquer. 

     The ultimate security may lie in making a diskette available.  Work 
can be loaded from the diskette at the beginning of the session, the hard 
disk can be used while on the system, and work saved back to the diskette 
before shutting down. 

     If you do not have the resources to issue disks as needed, you may 
want to do as others have: Make a deal with the Student Store.  In 
quantity, diskettes are cheap these days.  At this writing, MEI/Micro 
Center, 800- 634-3478, sells top quality formatted diskettes in 
quantities of 25 for 31 cents each.  Micro Media, 800-886-6833 sells in 
quantity 50 at 19 cents each. 


   Technical Notes: For experts only


                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 33 of 36

Icons

     If you would like to use a different set of icons, feel free to do 
so. Cartoon characters are effective with younger users.  The number of 
icons in ICONS is counted on startup.  An icon is chosen randomly from 
those found.  Therefore any or all of the icons delivered can be deleted. 
 And others can be added as you wish. 

     At this writing, Reasonable Solutions, 1-800-876-3475, sells a set 
of several thousand icons for $4.95 plus s&h.  The product code we have 
is 4580 and the product name is,  + " + Complete Icon Collection. + " +   
Some of the icons included in RBB came from this collection. 

     Creating icons takes time and requires skills not commonly 
available. But if you have the resources, you may want to consider using 
icons created by students.  One of the best icon editors we have seen is 
MaxIcon.  At this writing, it is available from Maximize, 800-349-7327.  
It is priced at $9.95 plus $1.95 s&h.  About a hundred icons are 
included. 


FILENAME.$$$

     Before saving a file, RBB renames an existing file from NAME.EXT to 
NAME.$$$.  The current copy is written to NAME.EXT and the file is 
closed. Finally, NAME.$$$ is deleted.  Should a power failure occur while 
the new copy of NAME.EXT is being written, the write will not complete 
and the current copy will be lost.  If the write completes and the delete 
of NAME.$$$ fails, the current copy will exist as NAME.EXT.  While such a 
fail is not likely to happen with small files, it may with larger ones, 
particularly on slower disk drives. 

     A check for the existence of NAME.$$$ is made whenever a user logs 
on. If a file of the type NAME.$$$ is found to match either of the two 
file names held, the user is alerted to a possible problem.  NAME.$$$ and 
NAME.EXT are loaded for the user to examine.  Whichever is saved, the 
other is deleted. 

     In a busy classroom or lab, a few files with this name format are 
likely to accumulate on the disk.  For example, a user may never return. 
Where disk space is a problem, these files can be periodically purged. 


RBBWIN.EXE And RBBDOS.EXE

     There are two versions of RBB.  RBBWIN.EXE is the Windows version. 
RBBDOS.EXE is the MS-DOS version.  Unless you plan to use both, we 
suggest changing the name of the one to be used to RBB.  It makes for a 
more convenient startup. 


                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 34 of 36

     Because Windows does a lot of other things besides run a program, 
you will find RBBDOS running without Windows provides the smoothest, most 
efficient and trouble-free performance.  If you run within a Windows 
environment, you can still gain improvement over use of RBBWIN by running 
RBBDOS as a MS-DOS application.  While Windows will continue to do its 
thing, RBBDOS is not troubled by calls to the Windows API.  The versions 
are virtually identical in function in so far as the user is concerned. 
The main difference is that several graphic functions used in RBB are not 
available in RBBWIN.  Since file access and user settings are the same in 
both versions, you can switch from one version to the other at any time. 


Path Names

     When RBB is run, it reads the path to the directory in which it is 
executed, which is assigned as the path to data files.  The system 
directories, ICONS and SAMPLES, must be one directory forward from the 
current directory.  That is, if RBB is executed within C:\RBB, the icon 
directory must be C:\RBBASIC\ICONS.  And the Samples directory must be 
C:\RBBASIC\SAMPLES.  The path to a user's work directory is limited to 42 
characters.  As delivered, this is the path to data files with \WORK 
appended.  Given the above, this is C:\RBBASIC\WORK. 


RBB On A Network

     All files used by RBB are random, except user files which are 
sequential.  In general, they are opened, read, then closed.  The 
exceptions are RBBRECS.DT and RBBTEXT.DT, because they are so frequently 
accessed to read or write while a user is logged on.  However, all files, 
including these, are opened in a mode which allows other copies of RBB to 
share them. 

     All data files need to be located in the directory from which RBB is 
executed, just as is the case on a stand-alone system.  While other 
arrangements are possible, all require changes in code. 



                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 35 of 36

                                  INDEX                                   

Boss; Defined; Password for - 4
Boss; Need for a password - 4
User ID; Defined; Purpose of - 5
User ID; As file name prefix, how it works - 5
Prefix to file names; Defined, how it works - 5
Lesson; Defined  - 7
Task; Defined  - 7
Samples; Defined  - 7
Samples; How they are loaded, protected - 8
Boss; Menu options briefly explained  - 9
Edit Log-On Information; User ID, password and name  - 9
Set School Defaults; How to  - 11
Work Directory; How to change the path to - 11
Summary Report; Options, how to produce - 11
Deleting User Files; Options, how to - 12
Delete Files Options; By size or date  - 12
Preparing for a new group; How to - 12
Initialize For A New Group; How to  - 12
Print; On-screen manual; How to - 13
Print; PTGUIDE.TXT; How to - 13
Print; RBBLOG.DT; How to  - 13
System Options; Settings that apply to all users  - 13
Password Required; Usage; Changing - 14
Name Required To Sign On; Changing the setting - 14
New User Sign Selves On; Changing the setting  - 15
Ok To List User IDs; Changing the setting  - 15
On Exit, Return To Log-On; Usage; How to implement  - 15
Network; Setting if using one - 16
Screen Saver; Usage; Changing the setting - 16
Screen Saver; Adjusting the speed  - 16
Maximum Tries To Log-On; Changing - 17
Diskette Drives Available; Changing - 17
User Assignments; Settings for specific or all new users  - 17
Clock; Allowing user control  - 19
Mouse; Usage and options available - 19
MsgColor; Allowing user control  - 20
Murphy; Usage; Changing the setting - 20
Password; Allowing users to change  - 20
Printer; Control of usage  - 20
Samples; Control of usage  - 21
Sound; Allowing user control  - 21
Tab; Allowing user control  - 21
UserColor; Allowing users to change - 22
Time To System Log-Off; Define; Changing - 22
Number Of Files Allowed; Changing - 22
Tab; Number Of Spaces On; Setting the default  - 23
Number Of Spaces On Tab; Setting the default  - 23
Diskette Drive To Be Used; Assigning a default  - 23

                                        Parent-Teacher Guide: Page 36 of 36

Work Directory; Allowing users to change - 23
Activate Settings; Default settings explained  - 23
Activate Settings; How they interrelate - 24
Activate Settings; School defaults - 24
Time Factor; Usage in activating features  - 25
Activate Settings; Best initial assignments - 26
Diskette; As related to Prefix, AnyName, WorkDir  - 27
AnyName; As related to Diskette, Prefix, WorkDir  - 27
Prefix; As related to Diskette, AnyName, WorkDir  - 28
WorkDir; As related to Prefix, Diskette, AnyName  - 28
Installing On Multiple Systems; Best way to do so - 29
RBBBOSS.EXE; Additional options for schools - 30
Boss; RBBBOSS.EXE needed to change password - 31
Samples; How to output all - 31
Print; How to output all Samples - 31
Tips For Greater User Success; Things to look for - 31
Icons; How to use your own collection  - 33
FILENAME.$$$; File held on power failure - 33
RBBDOS.EXE; MS-DOS version of RBB, usage, comparison - 34
RBBWIN.EXE; Windows version of RBB, usage, comparison - 34
Path Names; As installed - 34
Network; File access within RBB - 34
