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Release Notes - New Program Updates 09/08/2011 and later

jeff
9/15/2011
3:49:07 PM

Release Notes for a new Program Update intended to be released yesterday 09/08/2011.

Note #1.
I couldn't get it uploaded to the server last night due to a major power outage throughout Southern California yesterday. However, power was restored early this morning and I fully expect to have the program update described below uploaded to the server and available for download shortly.

New Program Update 09/08/2011

What’s Inside:
This program update is about improving the JCapper workflow! Players who are operating JCapper in a multi-folder environment will quickly discover that the daily routine: downloading files, unzipping files, loading files into the program, importing scratches from the web, running a Calc Races, viewing reports in the Report Viewer, Live Play Module, and SQL UDM Reports Module just got easier.

JCapper Main Module
Starting with the 09/08/2011 program update, you no longer have to (first) bring up the DFM to change active data folders before before running a Calc Races routine.

New Calc Races buttons
As soon as you hover your mouse cursor over the main Calculate Races button, a set of 3 Calc Races buttons will appear. Those buttons are labeled Calc Races Folder 1, Calc Races Folder 2, and Calc Races Folder 3. As soon as you move your mouse cursor away from these 3 buttons, they will disappear.

Clicking the Calc Races Folder 1 button causes your Calc Races routine to be run on Folder 1 as set up in the DFM. Clicking the Calc Races Folder 2 button causes your Calc Races routine to be run on Folder 2 as set up in the DFM. Clicking the Calc Races Folder 3 button causes your Calc Races routine to be run on Folder 3 (as set up in the DFM.

New Single Card Calc Races options
When you open up the single card Calc Races drop down, you will notice a new option enabling you to select a different active data folder. When you select a different active data folder, the drop down will repopulate and you will be able to see loaded race cards loaded into the program on that folder. Click one of those race cards to run a Calc Races for that card on that folder.

HDW File Manager
As of 09/08/2011, the HDW File Manager module has been given a facelift. The module now runs exclusively in auto-pilot mode. Because of that, I was able to remove all of the extra buttons that ran routines manually. The result is an easier to operate module with a cleaner look and feel.

The first thing you are likely to notice is that the launch buttons are placed on the face of the module from left to right in the order you are likely to click them (instead of the haphazard placement found in the old module.

Module Screenshots
-click here-
-and here-
-and here-
-and here-

New Card Loader added to the DFM (Data Folder Manager)
The DFM has a new launch button labeled to the right of the visual display for Data Folder 1 labeled Card Loader. Click this button and the DFM Card Loader appears. The DFM Card Loader is an interface that allows you to clear data files out of and load data files into JCapper for up to 3 folders simultaneously.

Click the HELP button (do this first before getting started) to see basic operating instructions.

DFM Card Loader Screenshots
-click here-
-and here-

Brief summary of basic module operating instructions: After clearing race cards for the previous day, you take current race day data files from the folder you downloaded them to (the current active data folder checked in the DFM) and drag and drop them (at will) onto Data Folders 1, 2, and 3 (as set up in the DFM.) Once you are satisfied with where you have dragged and dropped current day files, you can instantly load them into JCapper for all 3 folders by clicking the Select ALL and LOAD Folders 1,2,3 button.

With a little practice, you should find the process quick and intuitive because you can easily SEE what you are doing at all times.

Scratch BOT
In this program update, Scratch BOT has two new features.

New XML buttons.
Starting with the 09/08/2011 program update, you no longer have to (first) bring up the DFM to change active data folders before running an XML parse routine. Now you can do it from inside the Scratch BOT module itself.

As soon as you hover your mouse cursor over the main XML button, a set of 3 XML buttons will appear. Those buttons are labeled XML Folder 1, XML Folder 2, and XML Folder 3. As soon as you move your mouse cursor away from these 3 buttons, they disappear.

Clicking the XML Folder 1 button causes your XML parse routine to be run on Folder 1 as set up in the DFM. Clicking the XML Folder 2 button causes your XML parse routine to be run on Folder 2 as set up in the DFM. Clicking the XML Folder 3 button causes your XML parse routine to be run on Folder 3 (as set up in the DFM.

New Track Abbreviations Table Screen
Starting with this program update, Scratch BOT no longer relies on the (older) data sheet interface for editing the TrackAbbreviations table. This means you no longer need to separately download and register msbind.dll and msdatgrd.ocx files (that fewer and fewer manufacturers are including as part of their new Windows builds.)

Starting with the 09/08/2011 program update, when you click the Track Abbrev Table button, instead of the (older) data sheet, you will now see the newer wizard style interface for editing the TrackAbbreviations table. You will find buttons for paging through all of the records in the TrackAbbreviations table, as well as buttons for creating and editing new records.

Module Screenshots:
-click here-
-and here-

Report Viewer

Available Reports Drop Down
The Report Viewer has a new drop down displaying available reports and folders.

Starting with this program update, instead of using launch buttons, standard JCapper reports HTML One, HTML Two, TEXT One, and TEXT Two are now displayed by clicking the report from inside the drop down.

Changing Active Data Folders (from inside the Report Viewer)
Starting with the 09/08/2011 program update, you can now change to a different active data folder from inside the Report Viewer module itself (rather than having to do it separately in the DFM.) When you open up the available reports drop down, you will notice a new option enabling you to select a different active data folder. When you select a different active data folder, the drop down will repopulate and you will see available reports that can be run on that folder. Click the desired report to see it displayed for that folder.

Module Screenshots:
-click here-
-and here-

Reading Help Docs (from inside the Report Viewer)
Starting with the 09/08/2011 program update, when the Report Viewer is first launched, Basic Operating Instructions are displayed. As mentioned above, you can quickly view any standard JCapper report simply by selecting it from the available reports drop down. You will also find options in the drop down for using the Report Viewer to display the Reading the Reports Help Doc at JCapper.com as well as the Help Docs page at JCapper.com. In addition, online Help is also available from the Help menu located in the upper left hand screen area of the module.

Manual Changes Module

Changing Active Data Folders (from inside the Manual Changes Module)
Starting with the 09/08/2011 program update, you can now change to a different active data folder from inside the Manual Changes Module itself (rather than having to do it separately in the DFM.)

When you open up the loaded race cards drop down, you will notice a new option enabling you to select a different active data folder. When you select a different active data folder, the drop down will repopulate and you will see available race cards for that folder. Click a new track code to process scratches and changes for it on the active data folder where it was loaded into the program. Switch back and forth between track codes and data folders at will by clicking desired options from the drop down.

PPs Generator Module

Changing Active Data Folders (from inside the PPs Generator Module)
Starting with the 09/08/2011 program update, you can now change to a different active data folder from inside the PPs Generator itself (rather than having to do it separately in the DFM.)

A new loaded race cards drop down has been added to the module. Inside the drop down, you will notice a new option enabling you to select a different active data folder. When you select a different active data folder, the drop down will repopulate and you will see available race cards for that folder. Click a new track code to display past performances for races on that card. Switch back and forth between track codes and data folders at will by clicking desired options from the drop down.

Live Play Module
Changing Active Data Folders (from inside the Live Play Module)
Starting with the 09/08/2011 program update, you can now change to a different active data folder from inside the Live Play Module itself (rather than having to do it separately in the DFM.)

When you open up the loaded race cards drop down, you will notice a new option enabling you to select a different active data folder. When you select a different active data folder, the drop down will repopulate and you will see available race cards for that folder. Click a new track code to display live play reports for that card. Switch back and forth between track codes and data folders at will by clicking desired options from the drop down.

SQL Mode UDM Reports Module
As of the 09/08/2011 new program update, the SQL Mode Reports Module now includes JCapper Module launch buttons for the Report Viewer, Live Play Module, and DFM. This module enables the user to display a variety of reports for Calc Races routines run in SQL Mode. For those running JCapper in a multi-folder environment, active data folder inclusion or exclusion on reports generated by the module are controlled by clicking checkboxes for Folders 1, 2, 3, and ALL. This module is designed exclusively for players who are operating JCapper in sql mode.

JCapper TripNotes Module

New JCapper2 Import Utilities Screen
As of 09/08/2011, the Utilities Interface on the JCapper TripNotes module includes a button labeled JCapper2 Imports. When this button is clicked, the standard JCapper2 Import Utilities Screen (nearly identical to that found on the User Sys Defs Screen) is presented. However, the JCapper2 Import Utilities Screen in JCapper TripNotes includes an option to import JCapper TripNotes table data from a source JCapper2.mdb file to a target JCapper2.mdb file.

Further Notes:
As of 09/08/2011, the TripNotes button on the JCapper Main Module is now enabled (no longer grayed out.) However, the two number crunching options on the TripNotes settings screen are disabled because the algorithms for working player defined beaten lengths adjustments into speed and pace figs and (eventually) JCapper factors generated from speed and pace figs is under construction.

FAQs:

Q. Do I need to check the box on the Installer to make it give me a new JCapper2.mdb file?

A. Yes. This new program update contains new JCapper2.mdb table content - which requires that you make the Installer give you a new JCapper2.mdb file by checking the Overwrite JCapper2.mdg file box on the face of the Installer.

Q. After checking the box to make the Installer give me a new JCapper2.mdb file, do I need to use the JCapper2 Import Module found on the User System Definitions Screen to import data from my old JCapper2.mdb file into the fresh blank JCapper2.mdb file copied onto my c:\JCapper\Exe folder by the Installer?

A. Yes, any time you make the installer give you a new JCapper2.mdb file, this is critical - an absolutely must - especially if you have a custom sql factor setup or a custom sql html report.

Q. How do I run a JCapper2 Import routine?

A. Link to video:
http://www.jcapper.com/podcasts/j2import.wmv

Note: I generally recommend checking the Overwrite JCapper2.mdb File box on the face of the Installer as a best practice each time you install a new program update.

I also recommend importing data out of you old JCapper2.mdb file into your new file too.

If you get in the habit of doing this with each new program update, you're never left guessing whether or not the new program update you just installed contains new required table content. Checking the box makes the Installer give you new table content whenever it's there.

Q. Do I need to rebuild databases from scratch after installing this program update?

A. No. Not if you've kept current with the downloads.

Now if you haven't kept current with the downloads then yes, chances are you will have to rebuild databases from scratch before using the Data Window to query playlist files built using older program versions.

Enjoy (Shortly)

-jp

.

~Edited by: jeff on: 9/15/2011 at: 3:49:07 PM~

Arnold
9/10/2011
11:14:43 AM

The XRD files will not open.

Arnold
9/10/2011
12:15:17 PM

I got it to work, now just have to use extra step.

jeff
9/10/2011
9:51:35 PM

Hey Arnold,

If you get the chance, could you give me a call on my cell?

I want to make sure I understand what you mean by "extra step."

Thanks,

-jp

8 5 8 . 8 6 9 . 7 2 6 9
.

~Edited by: jeff on: 9/10/2011 at: 9:51:35 PM~

jeff
9/15/2011
6:08:31 PM

Here are the release notes for a new program update that I expect to publish later today. -jp.

New Program Update 09/15/2011 – What's Inside:

Enhanced Settings Module

New Setting
Starting with program versions released 9/15/2011 and later, the Enhanced Settings Module has a new setting. It is labeled as Main Module Calc Races Button Display. This setting has two options:
0 Multi-Folder Select
1 Single Cmd Button

When 0 Multi-Folder Select is the persisted setting, the JCapper Main Module Calc Races button will default to the 3 button behavior (one button for each folder as persisted in the DFM) released in the 9/08/2011 new program update. This setting also causes Scratch BOT's XML button to behave the same way.

When 1 Single Cmd Button is the persisted setting, the JCapper Main Module Calc Races button will default to the single button behavior (active for the current active folder as persisted in the DFM) that was the (previous) default behavior prior to the 9/08/2011 new program update. This setting also causes Scratch BOT's XML button to behave the same way.

Adding this setting to the Enhanced Settings Module means the JCapper user now gets to control the behavior for the Calc Races and XML buttons.

JCapper Main Module
Calc Races Button Behavior
Calc Races button behavior in program versions released 9/15/2011 is now user customizable through the Main Module Calc Races Button Display setting in the Enhanced Settings Module.

When 0 Multi-Folder Select is the persisted setting, the JCapper Main Module Calc Races button will default to the 3 button behavior (one button for each folder as persisted in the DFM) released in the 9/08/2011 new program update. This setting also causes Scratch BOT's XML button to behave the same way.

When 1 Single Cmd Button is the persisted setting, the JCapper Main Module Calc Races button will default to the single button behavior (active for the current active folder as persisted in the DFM) that was the (previous) default behavior prior to the 9/08/2011 new program update. This setting also causes Scratch BOT’s XML button to behave the same way.

Single Race Card Calc Races Drop Down (New Behavior)
Starting with program versions 9/15/2011 and later, selecting a new active data folder in the drop down causes the selected folder to become the new active data folder.

This behavior is exactly the same as bringing up the DFM, checking a different folder, and hitting the Save button. The key difference is that now you can quickly change to a new active data folder directly from inside the Main Module – meaning you no longer have to do it separately in the DFM.

Note: When you select a new active folder from inside the Main Module, your visual cue is a message box telling you that you just changed active data folders. For example: Active Data Folder is now Folder 2. In addition, if you are using Enhanced Settings to make the Main Module display the Calc Races as a single button, hovering your mouse cursor over the button itself will cause the button to highlight and display the Folder number for your current active data folder.

Note: Of course, the DFM still works and if that is your preferred way of doing things, by all means, feel free to (still) use it to change active data folders as needed.

Scratch BOT
XML Button Behavior
XML button behavior in program versions released 9/15/2011 is now user customizable through the Main Module Calc Races Button Display setting in the Enhanced Settings Module.

When 0 Multi-Folder Select is the persisted setting, XML button in Scratch BOT will default to the 3 button behavior (one button for each folder as persisted in the DFM) released in the 9/08/2011 new program update. This setting also causes the Calc Races button in the JCapper Main module to behave the same way.

When 1 Single Cmd Button is the persisted setting, the JCapper XML button in Scratch BOT will default to the single button behavior (active for the current active data folder as persisted in the DFM) that was the (previous) default behavior prior to the 9/08/2011 new program update. This setting also causes the Calc Races button in the JCapper Main module to behave the same way.

Loaded Race Cards List Box (New Behavior)
Starting with program versions 9/15/2011 and later, selecting a new active data folder in the List Box causes the selected folder to become the new active data folder.

This behavior is exactly the same as bringing up the DFM, checking a different folder, and hitting the Save button. The key difference is that now you can quickly change to a new active data folder directly from inside the current module – meaning you no longer have to do it separately in the DFM.

Note: This is useful when gate scratches occur. For example, you are watching horses load into the gate for a race you are betting. There is a gate scratch. Time is of the essence. You launch Scratch BOT, use the List Box to (quickly) change the active data folder to the folder where that track was loaded from, click the live tote link for that track, and Scratch BOT picks up the scratch from the live tote stream. You close Scratch BOT, and when you grab the Single Race Cards drop down in the Main Module to Calc the race you are watching, you find that the Main Module is already pointed at the correct folder (meaning you no longer have to bring up the DFM separately to switch folders.) You run a Calc Races for that one race, hopefully in time to bet the race based on the new race makeup resulting from the scratch.

Note: When you select a new active folder from inside of Scratch BOT, your visual cue is a message box telling you that you just changed active data folders. For example: Active Data Folder is now Folder 2. In addition, if you are using Enhanced Settings to make the Main Module display the Calc Races as a single button, hovering your mouse cursor over the button itself will cause the button to highlight and display the Folder number for your current active data folder.

Note: Of course, the DFM still works and if that is your preferred way of doing things, by all means, feel free to (still) use it to change active data folders as needed.

Manual Changes Module
Loaded Race Cards Drop Down (New Behavior)
Starting with program versions 9/15/2011 and later, selecting a new active data folder in the List Box causes the selected folder to become the new active data folder.

This behavior is exactly the same as bringing up the DFM, checking a different folder, and hitting the Save button. The key difference is that now you can quickly change to a new active data folder directly from inside the current module – meaning you no longer have to do it separately in the DFM.

Note: This is useful when gate scratches occur. For example, you are watching horses load into the gate for a race you are betting. There is a gate scratch. Time is of the essence. You launch The Manual Changes Module, use the drop down to (quickly) change the active data folder to the folder where that track was loaded from, click the track code for that track, page to that race, and manually scratch the horse. You close the module, and when you grab the Single Race Cards drop down in the Main Module to Calc the race you are watching, you find that the Main Module is already pointed at the correct folder (meaning you no longer have to bring up the DFM separately to switch folders.) You run a Calc Races for that one race, hopefully in time to bet the race based on the new race makeup resulting from the scratch.

Note: When you select a new active folder from inside the Manual Changes Module your visual cue is a message box telling you that you just changed active data folders. For example: Active Data Folder is now Folder 2. In addition, if you are using Enhanced Settings to make the Main Module display the Calc Races as a single button, hovering your mouse cursor over the button itself will cause the button to highlight and display the Folder number for your current active data folder.

Note: Of course, the DFM still works and if that is your preferred way of doing things, by all means, feel free to (still) use it to change active data folders as needed.

HDW File Manager

HDW File Download Tool
Synch to Disc Button (Single Button File Download Driver)
Starting with program versions 09/15/2011 and later, the Synch to Disc button has a new added behavior. I call it: the Single Button File Download Driver.

Here’s how it works:
If you click the button before clicking one of the Queue Files buttons, the Synch to Disc button performs each of the following tasks:

*The main file list box populates with a list of all files (both data and results) available for download from the HDW site.

*The interface then scans data and results file content on the current active folder of your hard drive. (This is the folder you have checked in the DFM and it is the same folder displayed on the main download button.) Based on results of this scan, the interface creates a list of data and results files that you already have on the target folder. It then compares this list against the list of files available for download from the HDW site. The interface compares the two lists against each other and identifies a third list: Files that are not yet downloaded to your target folder. The interface then cycles through the files displayed in the main file list box and highlights each file on this third list – those that you (still) need to download.

*The interface then tells you how many files are marked for download. Finally it asks you: Download them now? If you click Yes at the prompt the interface downloads the highlighted files for you.

It truly is a Single Button File Download Driver.

Hint: The key to making it work is double checking your target folder first in the DFM - before clicking the Synch to Disc button.

Of course, all of the other (older) buttons and features on the module for queuing up and downloading files are still active should you care to use them.

File Build Filter Tool
Bug Fix
I somehow managed to break the start and end date selection drop downs in the previous (9/8/2011) program update. (The nature of the bug was that the user could select dates using the drop downs, but the module failed to recognize the dates selected.)

This issue has been fixed in the 9/15/2011 program update.

Display of Start Date and End Date (new behavior)
Starting with program updates 09/15/2011 and later, both the start and end date are now displayed on the face of the module just above the File Build Routine APPLY button.

This provides the user with an instant visual cue about the file build routine about to be run. Also, starting with program updates 09/15/2011 and later, when the user selects start and end dates that make no sense (see below) the APPLY button becomes disabled. This prevents the user from attempting to run file build routines that result in 0 files built. Examples of dates that make no sense would be an end date that comes before the selected start date, as well as using the drop downs to select month and day resulting in invalid dates (for example February 31.) Of course, selecting a valid set of dates causes the interface to re-enable the APPLY button.

UDM Wizard
XML Recovery Screen (Cosmetic Change: Now runs in background only)
Background: The XML Recovery Screen was added to the UDM Wizard in 2008. Its purpose was to provide the user with a recovery path if and when the UDM Wizard lost its connection with the database (intermittent behavior resulting from a bug that existed at the time.) The bug was later solved.

Because the bug has long since been solved, starting with the 9/15/2011 new program update, the XML Recovery Screen, no longer appears front and center when you modify a UDM. In program versions 9/15/2011 and later, the XML Recovery Screen runs in the background. If you should ever need it, there is a launch button for it on the Modify UDM Screen which brings it front and center. Otherwise, it runs quietly in the background, no longer blocking the Modify Screen when it first comes up.

JCapper Report Viewer
Starting with program versions 9/15/2011 and later, you’ll find the report launch buttons vertically stacked in the upper portion of the module screen. HTML Reports (One and Two) and Text Reports (One and Two) can be launched either of two ways: 1. The available reports drop down. 2. Using separate report launch buttons to the right of the drop down.

Module Screenshot:
-click here-

Q. How do I run a JCapper2 Import routine?

A. Link to video:
http://www.jcapper.com/podcasts/j2import.wmv

Enjoy (Shortly)

-jp

.

~Edited by: jeff on: 9/15/2011 at: 6:08:31 PM~

jeff
11/23/2011
8:38:53 PM

Here are the release notes for a new program update that I expect to publish later today (Wed 11-23-2011.)

-jp.

HDW File Manager – .JCP File Build Routine
New .JCP File Data Fields
Starting with this program version, .JCP file build routines now insert the following new data fields into comma delimited text .JCP data files:

219 T/J Combo # Starts (365D) NUMERIC 9999 4
220 T/J Combo # Wins (365D) NUMERIC 9999 4
221 T/J Combo # Places (365D) NUMERIC 9999 4
222 T/J Combo # Shows (365D) NUMERIC 9999 4
223 T/J Combo $2 ROI (365D) NUMERIC 9999 4
237 Lasix Adjunct NUMERIC 0=No 1=Yes

Note: I am not (yet) using these new data fields internally within the program. However, those of you who are doing your own database work outside of JCapper may find them useful.

DFM Card Loader
Clear All Folders 123
Clicking the Clear All Folders 123 button still clears scratches and all loaded data files on folders 1, 2, and 3. However, starting with this program version, clicking the button results in a single Files have Been Cleared message box (instead of separate (annoying) message boxes for each folder.)

TripNotes Reports Screen
The TripNotes Reports screen in this program update is (finally) in a state very close to complete. The screen is now fully resizable. (Hint: Grab the module border and drag it around the screen.) A text box has been added for horse name – enabling you to generate trip notes reports for individual horses. Hint: You do not have to match the exact horse name. (The interface recognizes partial name matches.)

Data Window
Zoom Tool
Click Menu and select ZOOM to launch the Zoom Tool. On the Zoom Tool there are buttons that enable you to (temporarily) set font size for Data Window results. Click the plus button to enlarge the font one point per click. Click the minus button to shrink font size one point per click. Adjusted font size set by the Zoom Tool persists for the duration of the current Data Window session only.

Data Window
SQL Expression Tool Resizing
The same resizing technology found in other JCapper modules (PPs Generator, HTML Report Viewer, and TripNotes Reports) has now been implemented in the Data Window SQL Expression Tool. To resize, use your mouse to grab the module border and drag it across the screen until the module is sized the way you want it.

UDM Wizard
SQL Expression Tool Resizing
The same resizing technology found in other JCapper modules (PPs Generator, HTML Report Viewer, and TripNotes Reports) has now been implemented in the UDM Wizard SQL Expression Tool. To resize, use your mouse to grab the module border and drag it across the screen until the module is sized the way you want it.

UDM Wizard
Name Selection Tool
You no longer have to click the Clear Preview Box button separately before clicking the Add Names button. If you happen to click the Add Names button with text sitting in the Preview Box, a message box appears telling you that text is sitting in the Preview Box. You are presented an option to auto clear it. Clicking Yes at the message box clears the Preview Box and adds your list of selected CXN names to the Preview Box (in UDM ready format of course!)

Q. How do I run a JCapper2 Import routine?

A. Link to video:
http://www.jcapper.com/podcasts/j2import.wmv

Enjoy (Shortly)

-jp

.

~Edited by: jeff on: 11/23/2011 at: 8:38:53 PM~

jeff
12/5/2011
2:55:01 PM

12-05-2011 Main Module Only (Special Download)

What's Inside

Bug Fix

Nature of bug:
The Database Builder in the JCapper Main Module has always used DO_1 and DO_2 .txt files as a place to store names of .DAT files to be included in build database routines run as appends.

The Database Builder has always been programmed to name DO_1 and DO_2 .txt files in the following manner:

"DO_1_" + "mo" + "dy" + "year" + ".txt"

or

"DO_2_" + "mo" + "dy" + "year" + ".txt"

(with numbers for mo, dy, and yr based on the date the build database routine is run.)

Older versions of the Database Builder were programmed to simply read the mo and dy from today's date and insert same as part of the file name. This is all well and good if there are no previous DO_1 or DO_2 .txt files on the target folder having mo and dy codes that conflict with new DO_ .txt file names for a brand new db build.

Example of conflicting file names:

DO_1_11252011.txt (the do 1 text file created during a db build run on 11-25-2011.)

DO_1_1252011.txt (the do 1 text file created during a db build run on 12-05-2011.

The characters "1252011" are shared by both do 1 files and create enough of a conflict that it causes the db builder to fail... resulting in 0 files processed during an append build.

Solution:

The db builder in the Main Module published 12-05-2011 and later uses two character codes for mo and dy when DO_1 and DO_2 .txt file names are created for new database builds.

It appears going to 2 character codes for mo and dy solves the this issue (which I hope I've managed to explain in such a way that it makes sense.)

Install Instructions:

1. Close all open JCapper program windows.

2. Save the download package file (file name: MainModuleOnly12052011.exe) to your hard drive and double click to run the extractor.

The extractor will copy the new .exe file for the JCapper Main Module to your c:\JCapper\Exe folder replacing the older version of the same file.

On most machines the extractor will also auto-launch the JCapper Main Module.

That's it!

-jp

.

jeff
2/12/2012
8:15:45 PM

RELEASE NOTES - SQL Mode Reports Module Special Download Package - 2/12/2012

Note: This special download applies to JCapper Platinum cutomers only.

This module is not included as part of JCapper Silver.

This download package contains a revised copy of the SQL Mode UDM Reports Module (and nothing else.)

The revised module contains new logic that displays betting instructions with the odds line from your HTML Report (in brackets) to the right of individual UDM names (when applicable.)

The steps/rules to make the selections of an individual UDM appear on the SQL Mode UDM Module report remain the same as those for making the selections of an individual UDM appear on a standard JCapper Text Report. On the UDM Wizard Modify Screen:

1. Use non negative UDM Mark Characters.

2. Make sure the Hide From Text Report Box is not checked.

3. Hit the Save button.

To make Betting Instructions appear on the report, type something simple into the Betting Instructions field for the UDM in the Modify UDM Screen of the UDM Wizard (and hit the Save button.)

To display the odds line from a standard JCapper HTML Report (in brackets) to the right of individual UDM names inside of the SQL Mode Reports Module:

1. Bring up a UDM in the Modify UDM Screen of the UDM Wizard.

2. Check the OL Test Box.

3. Hit the Save button.

Install Instructions:

1. Close all open JCapper program windows.

2. Save the download package file (file name: UDMReports_Only.exe) to your hard drive and double click to run the extractor.

The extractor will copy the new .exe file for the JCapper SQL Mode UDM Reports Module to your c:\JCapper\Exe folder replacing the older version of the same file.

On most machines the extractor will also auto-launch the JCapper SQL Mode UDM Reports Module.

That's it!

-jp

.

jeff
3/5/2012
10:10:49 AM

JCapper New Program Update 03-02-2012

What’s Inside

HDW File Manager

JCP File Build Routine handles new race condition SOC
A couple of you pointed out that the Class Descriptor showing at the top of the HTML Report for GPX R3 Feb 29, 2012 was a "U" (without the quotes.)

Looking at the Equibase data coming from HDW I noticed an (apparently) new description for race condition: SOC. The Equibase chart that night listed the race conditions as Starter Optional Claiming. I then confirmed the new condition with Ron Tiller at HDW who described it as: Standard starter conditions for eligibility OR enter for a claiming tag. A quick check of the Brisnet .DRF file for GPX0229 revealed that Brisnet had opted to use CO as the class descriptor for the (new) SOC condition.

Based on the above info, I added a few lines of code to the .JCP file build routine in the HDW File Mgr so that any future races with a race condition of SOC will be treated as Claiming Optional or class descriptor CO.

PPs Generator
The PPs Generator included in this program update also handles the (new) SOC condition the same as Claiming Optional or class descriptor CO.

Display of Claiming Price (Horse) - The PPs Generator included in this program update will display the actual (horse) claiming price to the right of the horse’s age when horses entered in such races are in for a claiming tag. The module will display a blank space instead of a claiming price in the event a horse is entered as not eligible to be claimed.

Display of Claiming Price (Past Performance Running Lines) - The PPs Generator included in this program update will display a dash character followed by the letter N (example: OC25000–N or AOC41kNW2L-N) when the race conditions for a running line are claiming optional and the horse was not eligible to be claimed.

The interface simply displays the race condition (example: OC25000 or AOC41kNW2L) if the race conditions for a running line are claiming optional and the horse was eligible to be claimed.

Indicators for blinkers and front wraps in MED column (Past Performance Running Lines) - The PPs Generator included in this program update now displays a lower case b character in the MED column if a horse wore blinkers for that running line. The interface also displays a lower case f character if a horse wore front wraps for that running line.

Layoff indicator (Past Performance Running Lines) - The PPs Generator included in this program update reads the layoff definition in days stored by the user in the User Sys Defs Screen and evaluates the days between each running line to determine whether or not a layoff greater than or equal to the users definition of a layoff in days has occurred. When the number of days since the last running line exceeds the user's persisted layoff definition, the interface renders such running lines as underlined. When the number of days since the last running line does not exceed the user's layoff definition, the interface renders such running lines as normal.

Main Module

Bug Fix
Scope of bug: Limited to Brisnet files only (HDW customers not impacted.)

Description of bug: Main module failing to recognize horse names having specific characteristic: foreign bred horse with country bred wrapped in parenthesis characters -- example: BELLA CONQUISTA (BRZ) -- as scratched when horse name is parsed from the XML.

The same horse recognized as scratched when scratch is generated in the Manual Changes Module. (All other horse name types recognized as scratched when scratch generated via xml parse.)

The Main Module in this program update contains a bug fix addressing this problem.

Data Window
SQL Mode Track Weight Report – The SQL Mode Data Window in this program update now contains an option for Track Weight Report in the factors drop down. (This option has been available in PlayList file mode for the past 2-3 years; it is now fully enabled in sql mode.)

FAQs:

Q. Do I need to check the box on the Installer to make it give me a new JCapper2.mdb file?

A. Yes. This new program update contains new JCapper2.mdb table content - which requires that you make the Installer give you a new JCapper2.mdb file by checking the Overwrite JCapper2.mdg file box on the face of the Installer.

Q. After checking the box to make the Installer give me a new JCapper2.mdb file, do I need to use the JCapper2 Import Module found on the User System Definitions Screen to import data from my old JCapper2.mdb file into the fresh blank JCapper2.mdb file copied onto my c:\JCapper\Exe folder by the Installer?

A. Yes, any time you make the installer give you a new JCapper2.mdb file, this is critical - an absolutely must - especially if you have a custom sql factor setup or a custom sql html report.

Q. How do I run a JCapper2 Import routine?

A. Link to video:

http://www.jcapper.com/podcasts/j2import.wmv

Enjoy (Shortly)

-jp

.

~Edited by: jeff on: 3/5/2012 at: 10:10:49 AM~

jeff
3/8/2012
12:03:28 PM

03-08-2012 PPs Generator Patch (only)

A few of you have reported buggy behavior with the layoff indicator in the PPs Generator released in the latest program version. I spent a few hours working on this yesterday and believe I now have the problem solved - and am publishing this patch so that you won't have to wait for the next new program update.

Additionally, instead of displaying a line between past performance running lines to indicate a layoff in excess of the user's persisted layoff definition -- Going forward from here, the interface displays a semi line with a number in days to indicate the actual length of the layoff.

Scope of bug:

This bug is cosmetic in nature and is limited in scope to the following data fields inserted into .JCP files:

266- 274 # of days since previous race NUMERIC 9999 4 Blank-First timer

Important: The only place in JCapper where these data fields are used is inside of the PPs Generator. They are not in any way used internally within JCapper to perform number crunching to calculate values that go to the html report, associated export files, the starterhistory table, or made available to UDMs.

That's another way of saying that the bug is limited to the cosmetic display of the layoff indicator in the PPs Generator only. (UDMs not impacted.)

Download/Install Instructions:

1. Close all open JCapper program windows.

2. Download the 03-08-2012 PPs Generator Patch (only) from the program downloads page. Save the downlaod package file (filename: PPsGenPatch03082012.exe) to your c:\JCapperBuild folder and double click to run the extractor. The extractor will copy new program content to your c:\JCapper\Exe folder and (on most machines) launch the JCapper Main Module for you.

3. Use the HDW File Mgr and File Build Filter Tool included inside of this download package to rebuild .JCP files before loading into the program and using the PPs Generator to render past performances.

Note that using previously built .JCP files will not result in bug free behavior related to the layoff indicator.

You need to rebuild .JCP files for any race cards you want to use in the PPs Generator in order to get the layoff indicator to display properly.

FAQs

Q. Should I install this patch if I haven't installed the latest program version?

A. No. Best to install the latest program version first (March 02, 2012 or later) then follow up by installing this patch.

Q. Do I need to rebuild databases from scratch after installing this patch?

A. As a result of installing the latest program version? Yes. But only if you haven't kept current with the downloads. If you have kept current with the downloads? No.

A. As a result of installing this patch? No.

That pretty much covers it!

-jp

.

~Edited by: jeff on: 3/8/2012 at: 12:03:28 PM~

jeff
3/20/2012
10:55:15 PM

3/20/2012 Program Update

Whats Inside

JCX File Exports Module
This new module is designed for players who want to work with JCapper data outside of JCapper.

Screenshot -click here-

The module provides a simple interface designed to facilitate generation of .txt and .csv export files.

Basic Operating Instructions:

• Close all open JCapper program windows except the JCapper Main Module. Also close all open program windows where the app open in the window (Excel, Access, 3rd party db app, etc.) has a current lock file placed on the file name for the export file you are about to generate.

• To launch, on the face of the JCapper Main Module, click System Settings. Then click JCX File Exports.

• Check a source table. Options are StartersToday and StarterHistory.

• Select an Action. Valid options are Create New File and Append to Existing File.

• Select a File Extension. Valid options are .CSV (the default option) and .TXT (the alternate option.)

• Click the Browse button and supply a file name for your export file.

Use the dialog box that appears when you hit the Browse button. The very first time you do this for a given folder you will need to manually key a file name into the file name field of the dialog box. Each subsequent time that you generate an export file for the same folder you can supply the file name by selecting an existing file appearing in the dialog box.

Note that the dialog box will auto point at the current active data folder as set in the DFM. Also note that a DFM launch button has been provided in the event that you want to point the module at a different folder.

• Click the Create Export File button to generate your export file.

• Import the export file into Excel or the 3rd party app of your choice.

Requirements for making it work:
Export files generated by this module contain data if and only if the selected source table is populated with data. Note that the default StartersToday table is populated with data when you run a Calc Races in SQL Mode. Also note that this table is overwritten each time that a SQL Calc Races is run. Note that the (larger) StarterHistory table is populated with data whenever you run a Build Database routine in modes 3, 4, or 5. If your source table has not been pre-populated with data, export files generated by this module will be empty.

File format and field mapping:
Export files generated with this module are simple comma delimited text. Except for the top row, file content is an exact replication of data sitting in the selected source table.

Data fields in the top row of each export file are populated with the field names as read from the selected source table. This makes it easy to know what data is in each column.

To test: Run a sql calc races, select the StartersToday table, create a new export file, and import the export file into Excel. The actual field names from the StartersToday table will appear as the column headers for the top row when Excel renders the export file.

Where to find export files:
Export files generated by this module are written to the current active data folder checked in the DFM.

SQL Factors Wizard
Bug Fix:
Nature and scope of bug: JRating does not appear as an available factor selection in the left side of the interface for JRating enabled users. (Non JRating enabled users not impacted by this bug.)

Not sure when I managed to break this. However, the SQL Factors Wizard included in this program update contains a bug fix that once again makes JRating an available factor selection for inclusion in sql mode if you are one of the original JRating enabled users.

WagerHistory Module
Development of the new WagerHistory Module is now far enough along that I am (finally) including it as part of a Platinum program update.

I am working on the help doc. Because many of you have emailed and asked me to post what I have so far, I am doing exactly that. Here's a link:
http://www.jcapper.com/helpDocs/JCapperWagerHistoryHelpDoc.htm

I'm also working on a video and will publish as soon as free time allows.

I still need to do more development to the new module before it can be released as part of JCapper Silver - but do expect to publish a Silver version of this module in the coming weeks.

System Settings Interface
The System Settings Interface in this program update contains a new launch button for the JCX File Exports Module.

Q. After checking the box to make the Installer give me a new JCapper2.mdb file, do I need to use the JCapper2 Import Module found on the User System Definitions Screen to import data from my old JCapper2.mdb file into the fresh blank JCapper2.mdb file copied onto my c:\JCapper\Exe folder by the Installer?

A. Yes, any time you make the installer give you a new JCapper2.mdb file, this is critical - an absolutely must - especially if you have a custom sql factor setup or a custom sql html report.

Q. How do I run a JCapper2 Import routine?

A. Link to video:

http://www.jcapper.com/podcasts/j2import.wmv

jeff
4/15/2012
5:43:12 PM

04-15-2012 SQL Factor Setup Wizard (ONLY) Special Download Package

Release Notes
In a few minutes, I will be putting up a download link for a revised SQL Factor Setup Wizard Module.

The revised module contains a bug fix that now enables those of you who are JRating enabled to add JRating to your SQL Factor Setup AND (repeat AND) your customizable SQL HTML Report.

Somewhere in the distant past I somehow managed to break this functionality. (I'm not sure when) but I've tested the new module's ability at my end to add JRating to both the sql factor setup and the html report layout (it works!) and am now publishing a separate program download for the revised module - which (among other things) will be included as part of the next JCapper program update.

The revised module also has each of the Screens labeled (on the face of the module) as Screen ONE, Screen TWO, Screen THREE, and Screen FOUR, etc.

I did this to dovetail with a 4 part web tutorial that is now up on the JCapper site. This 4 part tutorial (for the first time) provides a detailed set of instructions for using the first four screens of the SQL Factor Setup Wizard to: 1. Edit the sql factor setup. 2. Edit the factors assigned to the cells on the sql html report layout along with 3. Managing where each of the cells appears on the report layout. And 4. Defining display attributes for each of the cells on the report layout.

The 4 part web tutorial for using the SQL Factor Setup Wizard can be found at the following link:
http://www.jcapper.com/Article_AddJRating.html

Install Instructions
1. Close all open JCapper program windows.

2. Save the download package file (filename: FactorsWizardOnly.exe) to your hard drive (the c:\JCapperBuild folder works as a good location.)

3. Double click the saved download package file to run the Extractor. The Extractor will copy the .exe file for the revised SQL Factor Setup Wizard to your c:\JCapper\Exe folder - and on most machines - will launch the SQL Factor Setup Wizard when done.

FAQs

Q. Do I need to rebuild databases after installing this download package?

A. No. This download package does not impact .mdb database files in any way and only contains an .exe file for the revised module.

However, if you decide to use this revised (or the existing) SQL Factor Setup Wizard to change your SQL Factor Setup - then Yes -- you absolutely would want to rebuild your databases from scratch afterwards.

Q. Is the revised module in this download package compatible with both JCapper Silver and JCapper Platinum?

A. Yes. The module is compatible with ALL JCapper program versions. (But you do have to be JRating enabled to use it to add JRating to the sql factor setup and html report layout.)

Enjoy,

-jp

.

jeff
4/25/2012
7:33:12 PM

New JCapper Program Update 4/25/2012

What's Inside

WagerHistory Module
Development for the WagerHistory Module has now progressed to the point to where I have decided to make it available as part of JCapper Silver.

Note: If you are installing your first JCapper new program update that contains the WagerHistory Module, make sure to check the box on the face of this Installer to overwrite the JCapper2.mdb file.

Also be sure to follow the instructions in the FAQs section of this post for importing data out of your old JCapper2.mdb file into the new JCapper2.mdb file included with today's new program update.

(You need to do this to get the needed table structure so that you can operate the WagerHistory Module properly.)

The WagerHistory Module Help Doc at JCapper.com has been updated as well. The help doc is still being written - and has a long way to go before it's complete. But it's far enough along that most of you can probably figure out how to create Short Descriptions, create and edit tickets, work up amt collected when you cash, and run the module's sql report generator.

Data Window

BY TK_LAST option
The Data Window factors drop down contains a new option labeled TK_LAST. Select this option to make the Data Window break your query results out by track code from the most recent running line. (This should prove useful to those of you wanting to do some R&D keyed off of ship from track.)

Hint: 1st time starters won't have a track code associated with the most recent running line. Consider filtering FTS horses out of your query results when using this option.

UDM SQL Mode Reports Module
Beginning with the 4/25/2012 new program update, the UDM SQL Mode Reports Module is now compatible with JCapper Silver.

The steps/rules to make the selections of an individual UDM appear on the UDM SQL Mode Reports Module's inner html report are the same as those for making the selections of an individual UDM appear on a standard JCapper Text Report. On the UDM Wizard Modify Screen:

1. Use non negative UDM Mark Characters.

2. Make sure the Hide From Text Report Box is not checked.

3. Hit the Save button.

To make Betting Instructions appear on the report, type something simple into the Betting Instructions field for the UDM in the Modify UDM Screen of the UDM Wizard (and hit the Save button.)

To display the odds line from a standard JCapper HTML Report (in brackets) to the right of individual UDM names inside of the SQL Mode Reports Module:

1. Bring up a UDM in the Modify UDM Screen of the UDM Wizard.

2. Check the OL Test Box.

3. Hit the Save button.

To launch the module: On the race of the JCapper Main Module, click MENU, select TOOLS, and then click UDM SQL Mode Reports.

To operate the module, run a SQL Calc Races and launch the module. From there, check the appropriate boxes to indicate data folder(s) where SQL Calc Races have been performed for card files loaded into JCapper for today's races and click one of the report launch buttons. The module will generate and display an html report displaying horses selected by your UDMs.

The primary advantage in using this module over a standard text report is the ability to sort UDM plays based on different criteria - as well as the ability to generate reports showing UDM plays for Calc Races done on any and all of the data folders you have persisted in the DFM.

In addition to reports that show UDM selections, this module gives you the ability to generate reports showing track code and/or races sorted by post time as well as track code.

Note that all reports generated by this module require that you perform a SQL Calc Races first.

SQL Factor Setup Wizard
The SQL Factor Setup Wizard in this program update contains a bug fix that now enables those of you who are JRating enabled to add JRating to your SQL Factor Setup AND (repeat AND) your customizable SQL HTML Report.

Somewhere in the distant past I somehow managed to break this functionality. (I'm not sure when) but I've tested the new module's ability at my end to add JRating to both the sql factor setup and the html report layout (it works!) and am now publishing a separate program download for the revised module - which (among other things) will be included as part of the next JCapper program update.

The revised module also has each of the Screens labeled (on the face of the module) as Screen ONE, Screen TWO, Screen THREE, and Screen FOUR, etc.

I did this to dovetail with a 4 part web tutorial that is now up on the JCapper site. This 4 part tutorial (for the first time) provides a detailed set of instructions for using the first four screens of the SQL Factor Setup Wizard to: 1. Edit the sql factor setup. 2. Edit the factors assigned to the cells on the sql html report layout along with 3. Managing where each of the cells appears on the report layout. And 4. Defining display attributes for each of the cells on the report layout.

The 4 part web tutorial for using the SQL Factor Setup Wizard can be found at the following link:
http://www.jcapper.com/Article_AddJRating.html

ImpactValues Table Wizard

New MENU Item - Connect to JCapper2.mdb File
The ImpactValues Table Wizard in this program update contains a clickable MENU item that enables you to connect the module to a different JCapper2.mdb file. The MENU item behaves exactly the same as the MENU Connect to JCapper2.mdb File option in the Data Window.

Hopefully, from here on out, most of you will find that having a connect to JCapper2.mdb file menu item available in both the Data Window and the ImpactValues Table Wizard means you find yourself in fewer situations that make you want to manually rename JCapper2.mdb files.

Q. After checking the box to make the Installer give me a new JCapper2.mdb file, do I need to use the JCapper2 Import Module found on the User System Definitions Screen to import data from my old JCapper2.mdb file into the fresh blank JCapper2.mdb file copied onto my c:\JCapper\Exe folder by the Installer?

A. Yes, any time you make the installer give you a new JCapper2.mdb file, this is critical - an absolutely must - especially if you have a custom sql factor setup or a custom sql html report.

Q. How do I run a JCapper2 Import routine?

A. Link to video:

http://www.jcapper.com/podcasts/j2import.wmv

jeff
5/30/2012
5:22:12 AM

05/30/2012 New Program Update -

Download Package link will be up shortly.

Link to program release notes:
http://www.JCapper.com/helpDocs/rant_newprogramupdate_05302012.pdf

-jp

.

jeff
6/2/2012
11:04:13 PM

Enhanced Settings Module - 06/02/2012 Special Download Package

This special download package gets you a new Enhanced Settings Module that contains a fix for a bug that I managed to introduce with the 05/30/2012 new program update. The bug impacts only those of you clicking the Save button in the module for the very first time.

Link to Release Notes .PDF:
http://www.JCapper.com/HelpDocs/EnhancedSettings06022012.pdf

-jp

.

JCapper Message Board

General Discussion -- Release Notes - New Program Updates 09/08/2011 and later

General Discussion
-- Release Notes - New Program Updates 09/08/2011 and later