Thank you for taking the time and trouble to evaluate this first release version of the Graphic File Search application for MSAccess97. 

This application will allow a user to find and view any graphic file located anywhere on their computer based on a virtually unlimited set of user defined characteristics. This application does not require any knowledge of MDSAccess97 to operate and use.

The following may help you use this application.

This is an MSAccess97 application. It will only work with MSAccess97. You must have MSAccess97 installed to use this application.

In addition you MUST have MSOffice97 and the graphical filters supplied with MSOffice97 installed in order to view the images. If you are unable to view images with this application try to re-install the graphic filters portion of MSOffice97. This can be done from the Control Panel/Install New Software. When prompted choose 'Custom' and when offered a choice select Converters and Filters and then expand that listing to select all the options under that heading.

This application will function without the filters installed, but you will not be able to see any images. If you intend to use this as a text file sorter let me know and I will make a copy available with the graphics disabled, making for a smoother interface.

Basically, if you are this far along you probably already know how to install the application, but here is a brief explanation.

Download GFSV1.zip
Use WinZip or any similar program to extract the 3 files, GFSV1.mde, (the application), gfs.htm, (a web browser type file which shows how the program can be used), and Readme.txt, (this file).
Extract the GFSV1.MDE file to any folder that MSOffice97 can find.
Make a shortcut to GFSV1.MDE or double click on GFSV1.MDE to begin execution.
In the unlikely event that you are prompted for an Association for this file type, choose MSAccess97.

I have tried to make it as user friendly as possible, but in all development projects certain limitations are bound to occur. The following is a list of items, which I am not necessarily happy about, but was compelled to allow into my initial release version. Should you find others please let me know and I will attempt to resolve them in a future release.

1. The Category and Criteria fields are limited to 30 characters each.

Yes and even at that they will sometimes overlap the edges of their 
boxes. I tried to make them as large as I could and still leave room for everything else I put onto some of the forms. 

2. The program functions, but it doesn't show any thumbnail images

This is most likely related to your installed software. This application was initially developed as a standalone program, but at the last possible moment it was discovered that MicroSoft does not release the graphical filters required to view images with their developers toolkit. Rather than purchasing a $500 3d party plugin, I have chosen to release this as a MSAccess97 application. This means that you must have MSOffice97 installed on your computer to view the images. If you do, and the images are still not showing up, try to re-install the graphic filters that come with MSOffice97. This can be done at the 'Install New Software' icon on the Control Panel. While I have not had the opportunity to test it myself, I also understand that MSAccess97 purchased individually, i.e. not bundled with MSOffice97, will not support the graphic filters either. 

3. The program functions, but some images can not be displayed.

Images downloaded off the internet may not meet certain standards for the installed graphic viewers. This is an uncommon problem, but it may occur from time to time. My advise would be to go ahead and enter the image data in the database, and then use it to sort and search for the images, which can then be viewed using whatever viewer you are accustomed to using. No damage will be done to the image, the database, or your system because of this. 

4. The program functions but some images are not very clear.

This is not a full featured graphical editor program. It is intended as a program to allow you to locate and categorize your images. As such it will show you an image which is intended to allow you to decide if that is the image you are looking for. You may then use your choice of graphic editor programs to manipulate, view, or print the image. Perhaps in a future version I will implement full graphical editor features.

5. The program doesn't allow for editing or deleting the Criteria fields.

I know. I was working on this when I decided enough was enough. This should be fixed in a later release, 1.x. Meanwhile take special care to make sure that your Criteria are as you want them to be. Categories can be edited, deleted, or added to at any time. But Criteria can only be added to, not deleted or edited.

6. An image may be saved with no Criteria entered.

That or any image can always be edited later.

7. In the Enter or Edit Image Data forms, the data is still visible in the entry boxes even after the image record has been saved.

I know. It doesn't effect the data or the image, but it is annoying. This will be fixed in a later version, 1.x.

8. This application does not work properly on a network.

I know. Mostly it works ok, but it does exhibit some strange behavior. This may be available on a later release, 2.x.


Well enjoy. This is a shareware application. That means you can distribute the unregistered version freely, but if you like it please register it.This is a fully function 30 day evaluation version. It will cease to function after 30 days if not registered. Registration will re-enable all functions and data.


I can be contacted at:

Every Era
855 57st #J
Sacramento, CA 95819

916-456-1767

http://www.every-era.com

roger@every-era.com

