Roll Catalogues
By Jim Heyworth
Hi Brian,
I wasn't going to put in my 2 cents worth on this subject, but here goes anyway.
I actually _bought_ my first computer (Apple ][+ ) in 1981 using the excuse that it was for the purpose of cataloguing my rolls. Fortunately the database manager program I used then was able to set up DBF files which allowed me to transfer the data to another program on my shiny new XT clone in 1986.
I still use the same program which is a list manager (some call it a database manager, but that's a point for argument) called Reflex. I doubt that it is still available, but you might be able to find it somewhere if you are really interested. It runs just fine in the MS-DOS emulated by Windows 95.
This program allows a lot more fields than I shall ever use, is fast and I find very convenient.
One of the nice things it allows is "string searches" whereby, for example, on the title field I can quickly pull out all the titles containing, say, the words "Moon," "June" and/or "Croon."
At the touch of a key I can have my rolls filed by artist, composer, player (Ampico, Duo-Art or Pianocorder), number or what have you. I can similarly bring out a list of only, say, Ampico or Duo-art or Ampico and Duo-Art but not Pianocorder, etc. I can even print up a catalogue for the shelf, formatted to my design if I wish, not just tabulated lists.
I think that just about any database manager would work, probably even a shareware program. If you are unfamiliar with database management do be prepared to do a little learning. You will be well rewarded for your efforts. Make sure, however, that it is capable of exporting files to another database in case you decide to change in the future and don't want to re-enter your 2500 rolls.
Jim Heyworth --- james_heyworth@sunshine.net
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(Message sent Sat 16 Mar 1996, 16:54:00 GMT, from time zone GMT-0800.) |
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