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"programming" capability users can create a
string of keystrokes for rc-usc. While on the
subject, standard operations (copy, move, etc.)
are cut short via the RUN/STOP key.
IN THE BEGINNING
After booting Vizastar 128 for the first time
it is best to load the "Read Me" file, an
electronic update of operating instructions and
general information which came into being too
late for inclusion in the manual. It also details
changes between Vizastar's 64 and 128 versions,
useful for those interested in upgrading.
General enhancements over the C64 version
include the ability to quickly reach a
worksheet's boundaries (TAB/cursor key
combinations) and to perform ascending or
descending alphanumeric sorts up to 10 levels
deep. Such a generous upper limit makes its
easy to set up extremely fine data filters.
The C128 version sorts faster than the C64
version; however it docs not adjust formulas
containing references to sorted rows;
sophisticated users take note.
An improvement in the copy and move
routines now means that only the top left
destination cell be designated. The program
remembers the shape of the data being
transferred and acts accordingly. In the 64
version you have to specify start and end cells,
a real hassle when working with large amounts
of data.
A DOUBLE DOSE OF MANUALS
Vizastar 128 has a Tutorial Guide in addition
to the more traditional Reference/Owner's
Manual. While some of the information is
duplicated, this 51-page booklet provides a
useful service for newcomers or casual users
who may not be acquainted with spreadsheets
and databases. The guide also covers hardcopy
output and creation of simple "Exec" files
(macros).
The Owner's Manual digs into the nitty gritty
details of running and using Vizastar 128. It is
well organized and thorough in its contents.
Information is presented in building block
fashion; the foundation is laid before more
advanced concepts are introduced. This
approach lessens the intimidation factor which
often overwhelms users trying to digest a
program of this scope.
Despite its excellent teaching methodology
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and complete reference section the manual does
suffer from a lack of illustrations or screen
shots.
HELP OF A DIFFERENT COLOR
Vizastar does not have on-line help; instead it
has a scries of tutorial files on disk. These are
accessed (very cleverly) through the macro
function. After loading the menu (a macro
itself) you select options to review specific
topics such as building macros (!), using the
database, working the range functions (copy,
move, etc.) or general definition of terms.
While part of this on-line aid is self running,
displaying useful insights and information, a
large number of the topics are interactive in
nature. You get to actually key in data and
review the effects. This is vividly demonstrated
in the graph option. You first select a standard
two dimensional bar chart, then alter the data.
Right in front of your eyes the chart adjusts to
the new parameters. Hotlink capability for the
128!
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Another interactive portion of the on-line
guide covers the database. It defines all terms
in a succinct yet complete manner. The
automated date setup tutorial is another gem.
There are a few left wanting however, the
macro creation section in particular.
Since the tutorials can be loaded into a
worksheet they sort of work like traditional
help. Then again, they sort of don't, since you
have to save data being worked on before
accessing the tutorials, then recall it when
you're done learning. The tutorial is a lefthanded
approach to on-line help.