JCapper Help Documents

All of the JCapper Help Docs are now available online
I've converted all of the Help Docs to html format and posted them to the JCapper site so that you can view them online. No need to worry whether or not your most recent download is the most current download. When you want to view a Help Doc you can always find the most current version of it online.

JCapper Instructional Audio and Video - click here.

To read the most current JCapper Help Documents: Simply SCROLL DOWN... You'll find a complete list of current Help Docs along with a brief description of each and a link so that you can read it.


Current JCapper Help Docs and a description of each:
  1. Introduction to JCapper - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document contains information sure to benefit both new and experienced users alike. Here you will find a general overview of JCapper. General guildelines for program operation are presented. This document also outlines the content found in other more detailed Help Docs along with a section presenting best practices for UDM creation. If you are new to JCapper, start here. If you have been using JCapper for a while, and haven't read this document, and think you know how to use the program, go back and read (or re-read) this document.


  2. Demo User Quick Start Guide - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document contains a quick start for first time Demo users. It explains what you can and can't do with the Demo Version and highlights areas that Demo users should focus their attention on to get the most out of their JCapper Demo experience.


  3. Installation Instructions - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document contains complete instructions for installing the JCapper Demo Version. Also included are sections on minimum system requirements and troubleshooting common error messages.


  4. Troubleshooting JCapper Installs - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document provides a detailed look at troubleshooting JCapper installs by using the JCapper Diagnostics Tool to identify missing Windows components along with the recommended solution for each problem.


  5. The JCapper DFM (Data Folder Manager) and Card Loader Help Doc - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document explains how to use the DFM (Data Folder Manager) to navigate the folder structure on your machine and persist data folders so that your persisted folders are (instantly) recognized by all of the other JCapper modules.

    This document also explains how to use the DFM's Card Loader to find and load past performance data files into JCapper (on up to three folders concurrently) so that files loaded into the program can be used for Calc Races routines and to generate past performances.


  6. The JCapper User System Definitions Screen - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document provides a detailed look at the settings found on the JCapper User System Definitions Screen. After reading this help doc you should be able to launch the USer Sys Defs Screen and use it to persist settings that enable you to make JCapper behave in a user directed way.


  7. Automating HDW File Downloads - Read the Help Doc - click here.   New! Last Updated June 21, 2017
    This document provides a detailed look at using Command Line Switches in JCapper's HDW File Manager to fully automate your HDW file download experience. After reading this help doc you should (at the very least) regularly find yourself using the (new) built-in Switches MENU to run single click automated file downloads. You should also be in a position where you are ready to take on fully automating your HDW file download process using third party automation software.


  8. Processing HDW Data and Results Files With The HDW File Manager - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document provides a detailed look at using JCapper's HDW File Manager. After reading it you should be able to use the HDW File Manager to download files from the HDW site and build JCapper compatible .JCP Data Files and .XRD Results Files.


  9. Downloading and Extracting Back HDW Data using WinZip - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document provides a detailed look at how back data from HDW is typically packaged. A strategy for extracting back HDW data using WinZip is presented. After reading this document, you should be able to use a web browser to download back HDW data and then use WinZip to extract your back data onto the target folder(s) of your choice.


  10. Unzipping Files With The JCapper File Unzipper - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document provides a detailed look at using the JCapper File Unzipper. After reading it you should be able to use the JCapper File Unzipper to find and unzip files at will.


  11. The JCapper Past Performance Generator - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document contains simple instructions for using JCapper's Past Performance Generator to generate past performance data reports that are second to none. After reading this Help Doc you'll find yourself using JCapper's Past Performance Generator to find and load data files... and be able to generate (and print) past performance data reports for the races in those files at will.


  12. The JCapper Enhanced Settings Module - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document contains simple instructions for using JCapper's Enhanced Settings Module to control/customize certain aspects of JCapper. For example, with Enhanced Settings you can control the data that gets inserted into .JCP Files during the HDW File Manager's file export routine, control the appearance of past performances rendered by JCapper's Past Performance Generator, as well as many other facets of JCapper.


  13. JCapper TripNotes - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document contains how to instructions for using JCapper TripNotes to create and edit Short Description trip types (or trip categories), Player Trip Notes for individual horses, and Daily Track Profile Notes. This help doc also covers the settings for making the JCapper Past Performance Generator insert Player Trip Notes for individual horses right into your past performances.

    This Help Doc really is required reading for the player who posseses a keen eye (or the player wants to develop a keen eye) and who uses trip notes for past running lines as part of the wagering decision making process.


  14. JCapper WagerHistory - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document is still being written. Because many of you have asked me to post what I have so far I am posting a link. Currently, this doc contains a listing and description for each of the visual elements found on the module's Data Entry Sheet.

    Check back frequently as I will be updating this doc whenever I can squeeze in free time to add to it.


  15. Loading Race Cards With the JCapper Card Loader - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document takes a detailed look at using the original JCapper Card Loader to load Race Card Files.

    Note that the new Card Loader in the DFM offers what many see as a superior interface.


  16. Processing Changes With the Manual Changes Module - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document takes a detailed look at using the JCapper Manual Changes Module for processing Scratches, race surface, and race distance changes.


  17. Rider Changes Help Doc - Read the Help Doc - click here.   New! Last Updated Dec 26, 2016
    This document covers every aspect of processing Rider Changes parsed from the XML for both HDW and Brisnet data users - including:
    1. Enhanced Settings that control Rider Changes.
    2. Spotting Unresolved Rider Names on the Changes Table Report.
    3. Using the CXNNames Table Interface to create a Resolved Rider Name entry in the CXNNames Table.
    4. Using the Resolved Rider Names Wizard to create a Resolved Rider Name entry in the CXNNames Table
    5. Using the Manual Rider Changes Screen to key and process manual rider changes.


  18. Processing Changes With the New Scratch Bot - Read the Help Doc - click here.   Last Updated Nov 15, 2016
    This document covers:
    1. Required Settings.
    2. Parsing live tote links (older functionality.)
    3. Understanding when scratches and changes appear in the XML (first introduced Fall, 2009.)
    4. Parsing scratches, distance changes, and surface changes from the XML (first introduced Fall, 2009.)
    5. Parsing track condition changes and rider changes from the XML (first introduced Fall, 2016.)
    6. The Changes Table Report (first introduced Fall, 2016.)
    7. Parsing prior day changes from archived XML documents (first introduced Fall, 2016.)


  19. JCapper Main Module- General Overview - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document takes a high level look at the JCapper Main Module and the purpose behind each of its buttons and menu items.


  20. Foundations of Database Handicapping - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document introduces beginners to the concept of database handicapping. It takes a detailed look at Data Window ouptut for a handful of factors found in JCapper2007. It then goes on to present a simple yet powerful single factor negative expectation UDM. Finally this document presents a simple and effective two factor general contender selection UDM. After mastering the material in this Help Doc you should come away with a sense of what database handicapping can do for you.


  21. Reading the Reports - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document takes look at the HTML and Text Reports and provides a high level explanation of the information found on both reports. Also presented are specific examples of recent overlays along with a discussion of what to look for. I consider this document to be Required reading for new and experienced users alike and recommend that you read it at least several times.


  22. The SQL Factor Setup Wizard - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document takes a detailed look at using each of the screens in the SQL Factor Setup Wizard to customize your SQL Factor Setup and your SQL HTML Report.

    After reading this document you should be able to:
    1. Use Screen One to assign JCapper factors to the 35 F-Slot Numbers that (collectively) are your SQL Factor Setup.
    2. Use the Factor Reassignment Screen to assign text based JCapper factors (like SQLDataBits) to StarterHistory name fields you might not be using (like the SiresSire field.)
    3. Use Screen Two to assign JCapper factors to the 48 available slots on your SQL HTML Report Layout.
    4. Use Screen Three ('The Stacker') to assign/re-assign JCapper factors to the 48 available slots on your SQL HTML Report Layout.
    5. Use Screen Four to edit the display attributes for each of the 48 slots on your SQL HTML Report Layout.
    6. Use Screen Five to persist and edit SQL Expressions that give you control over a. The races that display on your SQL HTML Report (for example turf only with at least 8 runners if that is what you want) and b. The order in which horses are sorted on your SQL HTML Report (for example by gate draw from the rail out or by any data field from your StartersToday table in descending numeric value order if that is what you want.)


  23. The SQLDataBits Field - Read the Help Doc - click here.    Last Updated Feb 29, 2024
    This document takes a detailed look at the SQLDataBits Field and field mapping is provided.

    After reading this document you should be able to:
    1. Use the Factor Reassignment Screen to assign SQLDataBits to one of the StarterHistory name fields you might not be using (like the SiresSire field.)
    2. Use data points from the SQLDataBits Field in your SQL UDMs.


  24. The Live Play Module - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document takes look at operating the Live Play Module in both automatic and manual mode. It covers the subject of starting a session in detail. An explanation of the numbers found on the Live Play HTML Report is also offered. After reading this document you should be in a position to start using The Live Play Module for play or pass decision making during your own live play.


  25. Glossary of Supported Factors - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document provides a detailed explanation of all the factors supported in JCapper.


  26. Preset Filters - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document provides a detailed explanation of all of the Preset Filters supported in JCapper.


  27. Dynamic Filters - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document provides a detailed explanation of all of the Dynamic Filters supported in JCapper as well as a tutorial for writing Dynamic Filter Codes with or without the Dynamic Filter Tool.


  28. Building JCapper Databases - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This help doc explains the steps necessary for building a database in JCapper, the inner workings of the Database Builder, the WorkFile Builder, the Results File Importer, PlayList File Creation, and touches on (although I still have to complete this section) best practices.


  29. Understanding the JCapper Data Window - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document takes a high level look at the JCapper Data Window and provides an explanation for each of its visible elements. After that this document provides a detailed look at running both simple and complex Data Window Queries and also provides a detailed look at using the Quick Index File Extract Tool. After reading this document you should be ready to start using the Data Window to perform your own handicapping research.


  30. Data Window Exports - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document explains how to run Data Window Exports so that you can get Track Profile Reports as well as detailed Reports for Trainers, Riders, and Owners.


  31. Building a Trainer Specific UDM - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document takes a detailed look at using the UDM Wizard, Profile Table Interface, and Data Window to build a UDM to exploit the patterns used by one trainer at Oaklawn Park to get his horses ready to run.


  32. Advanced Topics - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document provides some general guidelines for such topics as Building a Database, File Sharing between JCapper and other handicapping programs, Validation Data and Sample Size.


  33. Using The ImpactValues Table Interface to create UPR - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This document takes a look at the ImpactValues Table structure and provides a detailed step by step example of how to make ImpactValue Table entries to create your own UPR.


  34. Prob Expressions - Read the Help Doc - click here.   Last Updated June 18, 2018
    Prob Expressions are a way to create your own factors by executing user defined sql expressions. This document explains what Prob Expressions are and covers: proper sql syntax, using the Prob Expressions Tool in UPR Tools to create, edit, clone, and delete Prob Expressions. Step by step instructions complete with screenshots are provided for adding Prob Expressions to your SQL Factor Setup as well as using Prob Expressions in your GroupNames for UserFactors and UPR. Finally, this document contains tables listing supported Prob Expression Behaviors and Factor Handles.


  35. The JCX File Exports Module - Read the Help Doc - click here.   Last Updated Mar 09, 2024
    The JCX File Exports Module is a powerful nuts and bolts module that gives you the ability to export data from JCapper databases to .csv files on your hard drive. From there you can perform statistical analysis on the data in your choice of Tools such as Excel, MySQL, Python, R, STATA, SAS, SPSS, SQL, Neural Networks, etc.

    This document covers:
    1. Connecting to JCapper, JCapper2, and JCapperSDK .mdb files.
    2. Exposing tables, data field names, and data types in connected to JCapper, JCapper2, and JCapperSDK .mdb files.
    3. Exporting JCapper data to .CSV files.
    4. Data Transformations, outlier handling, and formatting exported data for specific statistical analysis - CLogit, MLogit, etc.
    5. Exporting vertical exotics data to the tables in connected to JCapperSDK .mdb files.
    6. Using the JCapper Data Window to display ticket structure for vertical exotics (exacta, trifecta, and superfecta.)


  36. Creating MLR (Multi Logistic Regression) models in the JCapper Expression Builder    Last Updated Dec 01, 2017
    Read the Help Doc - click here.

    Create GroupNames for UserFactors and UPR based on MLR (Multi Logistic Regression) models created during statistical research performed on exported JCapper data.

    This help doc covers:
    • BASIC OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS for creating an MLR (Multi Logistic Regression) Model in the JCapper Expression Builder.
    • An Overview of the IVLookup table - what it does and how it can be used to store entries that will make your MLR GroupNames track-surface-distance specific.
    • BASIC OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS for using the IVLookup Quick Start Tool to create a set of quick start entries in the IVLookup table - that when edited - will make your GroupName track-surface-distance specific for an individual SubGroup.
    • BASIC OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS for using the IVLookup Table Interface to edit quick start entries in the IVLookup table - to make your GroupName track-surface-distance specific for an individual SubGroup.

    After reading this help doc:
    • You should be able to use the Expression Builder in UPR Tools to create and edit Method 4 MLR GroupNames of your own.
    • You should be able to use the IVLookup Quick Start Tool to create a set of quick start entries in the IVLookup table - that when edited - will make an MLR GroupName track-surface-distance specific for that SubGroup.
    • You should be able to use the IVLookup Table Interface to edit quick start entries in the IVLookup table - to make an MLR GroupName track-surface-distance specific for that SubGroup.
    • You should understand the differences between non MLR GroupNames and MLR GroupNames in JCapper.


  37. Finding an Edge - Read the Help Doc - click here.
    This one Help Doc will open your eyes. It is the culmination of all other JCapper Help Docs and Podcasts. It explains in plain English how to use JCapper to find a proven mathematical edge. The concepts of hidden and obvious positives are introduced. After reading this help doc you will understand why these concepts are critical for success in pari-mutuel race betting. A step by step detailed tutorial is presented that lays it out there for the beginning (and advanced) player: a proven documented successful UDM along with proven UDM development strategies for finding an edge of your own.


Have a question about something you can't find in a Video or the Help Docs?

The only stupid questions are the ones we are too shy to ask.
  1. Post your question in the JCapper 101 section of the JCapper Message Board.
    I'm an extremely busy guy. Even so I try to read the JCapper Message Board at least once a day. We also happen to have many active and friendly JCapper community members reading the message board too. Many times somebody from the community will answer a question before I even get the chance to read it.


  2. Email your question to me.
    I try to read and answer all JCapper emails at least once a day. If you email a question to me I'll email you back an answer - usually within 24 hours.

Bottom Line: - If you have a question or need help with the program - you only have to ask.