NPD Update 3.44 (02/26/00)

This is a special update to correct some problems in version 3.43. Also, this update is being released on CD instead of floppy diskettes in order to get it distributed sooner. If you need floppy copies of this diskette, insert the CD and cancel the update. Then, use Windows Explorer or My Computer to copy SETUP.EXE from the CD to a blank floppy. Then copy SETUP.W02 to a second blank floppy. Install the update from floppy in the regular way using NPD Tools. (Do not copy AUTORUN.INF)

The update should start a few seconds after you insert the CD. If not, use Add/Remove Programs in Control Panel.

 

About This Update

The following modifications have been added since the last update of 02/15/00:

 

  1. You are warned if you modify a service change and the new edition is one that expires. In that case you must manually add the replacement edition at the appropriate later date.
  2. The date of the rate change for Bill Now is now correct.
  3. A number of improvements have been made to the edition change and vacation credit calculations. In particular, the Replace Copies/Edition for posted service changes now works better. Vacation credits beyond the rate change date are now correct.

 

The corrections outlined in #3 above were difficult to find and fix. Some had been with the system for years, others crept in during the last two updates. I will continue to seek out and correct bugs. Your assistance in finding them, as well as your patience while they get corrected, is appreciated.

For Your Information

  1. Get your NPD Updates On-line. – Now NPD updates are posted on our web page for downloading. The plan is to post the update just after the master update diskettes are sent off for reproduction. (It takes about three days to get the copies back, a day to stuff them into mailers, and a day or two for the post office to deliver them to you.) Downloading can get you the update almost a week earlier than waiting for the diskettes. If you would like to sign up for this, send an email to NODISKS@ACORNDATA.COM. Be sure to include your name in the message body, as sometimes I can’t figure it out from your email address.
  2. Windows 2000 – NPD should work well under Windows 2000.
  3. NOTE: Promos, like the 13-week special, should not have a fixed end date. Having one complicates a delayed start. But more importantly, the date will be invalid next year. The fixed end date has special use, such as the end of a school semester. If you used fixed end dates, remember to correct them before you use them next year.

Earl O. Merrill

Acorn Data Systems, Inc.