Creating Macros in pc/MRP

15.3.1 Purpose of Macros

Macros are created by the end user to simplify data entry and or processing procedures. Macros through the use of user-defined keystrokes perform repetitive procedures with several steps in one keystroke. When used properly and effectively macros are a powerful tool that greatly increases office efficiency.

15.3.2 A Few Suggestions before Making the Macro

· Have a clear understanding of what you want the Macro to perform and the necessary steps to complete the function. Once recording begins, every step will be recorded.

· Be sure to use only the keyboard while creating your macro. A macro will NOT be created if the end user uses the mouse while the macro is recording.

15.3.3 Creating Macros

Macros are created by selecting Tools then Macros from the main menu or by pressing ALT-F9. pc/MRP will first ask for the Macro Key Definition. This defines the keys you wish to use to perform the macro. We suggest using the Ctrl, Shift, or Alt keys in combination with other keys on the keyboard. Enter a macro name; Macro names must NOT contain spaces. Once the Macro Key Definition has been chosen by pressing Enter, recording of the macro begins. Use the keyboard to record from beginning to end the exact task(s) you wish the macro to perform in the exact order they are to be performed. Recording of the macro ends by pressing ALT-F9.
After pressing ALT-F9 the Stop Recording Macro screen appears. By pressing Enter, the macro is complete.

15.3.4 Changing Existing Macros

An existing macro can be changed by simply choosing the same Macro Key Definition after selecting Tools then Macro from the drop down menu or pressing ALT-F9. This will prompt the user to overwrite or append the existing macro.

15.3.5 Macro Trouble Shooting

Macros are not working after following the steps above.

· Be sure that the macro was created by using only the keyboard. From the moment recording begins until ALT-F9 is pressed stopping the recording process; only the keyboard can be used to record the actual actions the macro is to perform.

· Be sure that the end user that created the macro is logging in as the same user. pc/MRP keeps track of macros via individual user.

· The Demonstration version will not save macros after pc/MRP is exited.

· A macro file can become to long or corrupt. Delete the macro file, "username.fky" and re-enter the macro(s).

· Macro names cannot contain spaces.