BOOK REVIEW (AND APPLICATION)
“VU-CALC and VU-FILE“
Robert B.V. Masters
Robert J. Brady Company
Bowie, MD 20715
167 Pages $17.95
Bill Ferrebee
Mountaineer Software
115 N. 7th Avenue
Paden City, WV 26159
(304) 337-8502
One of the best business-oriented programs available for Timex/Sinclair computers is VU-CALC, a spreadsheet program by Timex.
Spreadsheets can be utilized in two ways: 1) as a calculation tool, to keep rows and columns of accounting-like figures organized; and 2) as a forecasting tool, to see the results of making changes to those figures (“What If…”).
The one drawback with VU-CALC is the sparceness of documentation provided with the program. A foldout sheet is included in the cassette box, but it does not explain the program’s functions in a clear manner.
But, a new book has been published that will take one through a step-by-step tour of both VU-CALC and VU-FILE (or “The Organizer”), Timex’s database program.
In “VU-CALC and VU-FILE”, Robert Masters give clear explanations of every command available for both programs. He also provides examples of actual applications that can be used almost immediately.
Masters provides the user with ways of customizing the programs, and reveals little-known tips to help fully utilize them. Worksheet templates are even included for the two programs, so the user can xerox them, and preplan the layout of their applications.
Utilizing techniques shown in this book I have designed a Payroll Report that anyone that gets paid bi-monthly can use. And through some simple changes, it can be modified to fit any payroll system
Even though I only did an in-depth review of the VU-CALC portion of the book, I would highly recommend it to anyone that wants to get the most out of either program. You’ll be amazed at what you can do!
Formulas (1) C02 A:R:Z (2) C02 * C03 R:R:Z (3) C05 + C06 + C07 R:R:Z (4) C04 - C08 R:R:Z (5) C03 R:C:17 (6) C11 + D03 R:R:Z ○*: first use of formula
PROCEDURE FOR CELLS D12 - D17
1) Move cursor to D11
2) Press (G)et
3) Press (M)ake current
4) Move cursor to appropriate
column
5) Press (S)et
6) Make note of formula as
you see it
7) Press (G)et again
8) Press (C)hange
9) Re-enter the formula
exactly as noted in Step 6
10) Press (R)elative : (R)ow
to row "Z"
REPEAT FOR COLUMNS 12 - 17
NOTES: This spreadsheet is designed to keep individual & year-to-date payroll periods for 1 calendar year. This program is based on 24 pay periods (on the 15th & end of each month), with 3 deductions (Federal W/H, F.I.C.A., & State W/H) each period. When entering Formula (6) in Columns 12 – 17, follow the instructions listed on the right. Make sure that you have at least a “0” in each cell that has a “x” in it.