Auto Start Manager Version 1.3
Copyright (C) 1997 Cool Bay Software
All Rights Reserved


INTRODUCTION
============

   Auto Start Manager extends the functionality of the Windows StartUp
   folder by giving the ability to conditionally start programs at
   startup time or after a specified time delay.

   The program allows time and configuration dependent conditions to be
   tested before deciding which programs to start. Tests are provided for
   day of week, time of day, time elapsed since last run, start
   configuration, and power mode (if APM installed).

   Of particular interest to notebook users is the ability to control the
   programs started, based on the configuration (e.g. docked/undocked)
   and power settings (mains/battery).

   Programs can be started immediately, or after a specified delay time
   thereby allowing the staggering of program starts. Programs can optionally
   be minimized, maximized or closed after a predetermined time.

   Auto Start Manager is written using Borland C++ Builder, and runs
   under Windows 95 and Windows NT 4.0.

   Auto Start Manager is distributed as shareware with a modest registration
   fee of $10.


VERSION HISTORY
===============

  1.3 Released 27-11-97
      Runs the associated program if a non-executable file (e.g. "readme.txt").
      Shortcuts and other files can be dropped onto main screen.
	  Some small changes to User Interface:
		- Show delay timer on main screen
		- Shows delay countdown if screen opened from system tray
		- Allow sorting of items on main screen (by clicking column header)
		- Add browse button for program parameters (if parm is filename)
		- About box has clickable link to home page
		- Default name for new items no longer has extension
  	  Fix some bugs:
	    - Execute button was not starting tasks with delays specified
    	- Frequency specified as months/years was starting every time
    	- Cursor was not positioned correctly on definition screen

   1.2 Released 25-09-97
       Timer functions added:
        - delayed execution
        - action (close/restore/minimize/maximize) after
          specified time
       minimizes to system tray when timer function pending
       add test for environment (config/power/user) change
       remembers position of program definition screen

   1.1 released 23-08-97
       now runs on NT 4.0
       add testing on time of day
       add testing on userid
       context sensitive help
       start directory dialog now includes network neighborhood
       validate defined programs are executable
       file open dialog mask includes all executables
       icon was not changing if program changed
       fix load icon error for program without icons (e.g. ms-dos applications)
       fix bug which allowed duplicate on name of first item
       documentation included in pdf format

   1.0 released 05-08-97


MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
====================

   PC running Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0
   2 Mb free disk space.


FIRST INSTALLATION
==================

   Auto Start Manager has a setup program which must be used to perform
   the installation. The setup program will preserve your existing
   definitions when updating from an earlier release.

   To install Auto Start Manager from a ZIP file:

     1) Unzip into an empty temporary folder.
     2) Run SETUP.EXE, and follow the on-screen instructions.
     3) Delete the files unzipped in step 1 above.

   The installation program will, by default, install a shortcut to the
   Auto Start Manager in your "StartUp" folder. If you are using a non
   English language version of Windows, then you will need to select the
   correct folder during installation, or move the shortcut afterwards.

   Auto Start Manager does not install any programs or files in directories
   other than the install directory. It does store preferences in the System
   Registry, so make sure to use the uninstall program if you wish to remove
   it from your system.


UPDATE
======

   If you are updating an existing version, and have downloaded the
   smaller update file (asm13u.zip, approx 363k and does not contain a
   setup.exe), then simply unzip the contents of the update file to the
   directory where Auto Start Manager is installed replacing the old files.


UNINSTALLING
============

   Uninstall Auto Start Manager using the Control Panel Add/Remove
   function. This will remove the program files and the program definitions.



USAGE
=====

   The installation program will install a shortcut to the Auto Start Manager
   in your "StartUp" folder. Select this item to bring up the main screen, and
   start the definition of the programs to run, with their associated conditions.

   New programs can be added by using the "new" toolbar button, the "new" item
   in the edit menu, by dropping the program file (executable) onto the main
   screen, or by copying an existing entry.

   Definitions can be edited by double clicking the entry on the main screen.

   When your definitions are complete, set the menu option "Auto Run". This
   will tell the Auto Start Manager to test/execute the specified programs
   the first time it is called after each Windows startup. By having Auto
   Start Manager in your startup folder, this will occur automatically each
   time Windows is started.

   Definitions can be changed at any time by running the Auto Start Manager.

   See the online help for further details.


SUPPORT
=======

   The latest version of Auto Start Manager can be found at:

      http://indigo.ie/~bryan/coolbay.htm

   Support is provided by email. Please send your queries or comments to

      bryan@indigo.ie


REGISTRATION
============

   Payment of the once off registration fee of $10 will entitle you to
   use the current and all future versions of Auto Start Manager. On
   receipt of your registration fee, you will be notified by email
   of your registration code. Registered users will be automatically
   notified of new releases of the software.

   Credit card payments are possible via a secure web site. Follow the
   "Secure Registration" link from the Cool Bay web site, or go directly to:

      https://www.regnow.com/softsell/nph-softsell.cgi?item=1062-1

   Alternatively, send $10, or the approximate equivalent in your local
   currency, along with your email address, to the address given below.
   Cash only please - the fees for cashing a cheque would exceed the cheque
   value!

   Brendan Ryan
   38 Watson Road
   Killiney
   Co. Dublin
   Ireland


TRADEMARKS
==========

Windows and Windows NT are trademarks, or registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation.
C++ Builder is a trademark or registered trademark of Borland International Inc.
All other trademarks and registered trademarks are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective owners.
