Page Updated: June 8, 2006

ARMS Upgrade

ALERT Upgrade

Hints & Tips - General

• Before investing in a computer, shop around. Try not only different brands or types of computers, but different platforms. If you seek advice, be sure you talk to knowledgeable individuals.
• If you have the opportunity to post a web site (even a small, personal page), do NOT hesitate. There are web authoring programs that are not only inexpensive, but very user-friendly. If you would rather hire someone, let me know!
• Databases can be used to organize just about anything. If you can imagine it, it can be done.
• Book Mark This Web Page. I will continually add new information.

Hints & Tips - Database Solutions

• ALWAYS back up database files - every day (if possible).
• Read the provided documentation. Each database solution has a Help File. The Instructions pdf document contains important information about getting started (e.g., passwords).
• Get in the habit of using four-digit years - in particular, when conducting finds (queries) within databases.

Reconstructing The ARMS Database

There will be situations where it is necessary to install a new ARMS database, and import information from your backup files:

1. You wish to install an updated (upgraded) version of the ARMS software.
2. Your computer has died.
3. The database has ceased to function properly. (See *Note)
4. Your computer has a virus.

To reconstruct your ARMS database (upgrade to a new version), follow these simple steps:
a. Backup ALL files that you wish to import (upgrade).
Note: If you export files, be sure to use the correct file extension (e.g., “fp5” for FileMaker Pro version 5).
b. Move the old copy of the entire ARMS folder to a Temporary Folder (preferably removable media or a separate partition).
c. Install (copy) the new ARMS database to your hard drive. You (the Database Manager/Instructor/Commander) may access the new copy by using the original passwords (see the Instructions pdf).
d. Import data from your backup files. The Import function has been moved to each database file. (e.g., to import Daily Flight Log records, navigate to Data Entry/Daily Flight Log. Then, click on Import (matching names).)
Note: If backup files appear “grayed out” in the Import dialog, make sure “Show: All Available” is selected. If the files are still inaccessible, select all the backups and drop them on the ARMS application icon, and/or use an “fp5” or "fp7" file extension. The import function should now see the files.
e. Click on Support Files; then click on Login Masters. In this file, you will be able to enter all of the current users (the PID and Login).

It is CRUCIAL that this information is entered accurately.

(I recommend that you assign new passwords to all users, in particular when you suspect unauthorized access to your database (or computer).)

f. Once the imports are complete and the PID’s and Logins are entered, you will have your "fully functional database"! Test it.
g. After you verify that the new ARMS database is operational, discard the old database (delete it from the Temporary Folder or removable media).

*Note: What happens if things go terribly wrong, and I not only do not know what happened, but I'm not able to gain access to my database?

This situation is rare, but if it does happen, it may be frustrating. Following this guideline would help you through this problem.

1. DO NOT PANIC. When you back up your information daily, the database can be easily reconstructed.

2. Take notes. Recall what you did prior to the malfunction, as well as the steps you took to reconcile the problem. While this is not an exhaustive list, here are some important things to take note of:

a. Was there an unexpected power outage?
Did the computer experience a hard shutdown?
b. Have you installed or uninstalled anything recently?
(Software/Hardware)
c. Are you aware of unauthorized access to your computer?
Has someone tried to break into your database?
d. Have others been using your computer?
(If so, ask them what they did - if they installed anything, etc.)
e. Have you scanned your computer for viruses?


3. Restart the database. If you have no success, restart your computer.
4. If you still cannot gain access to the database, follow the procedure outlined above - Reconstructing The ARMS Database.

Remember: Help is available here. If you experience problems, e-mail PCS. The more details you can provide in your correspondence, the better. Once information is received, I will attempt to recreate any problem(s), and would then take steps to eliminate it!

If you have any questions or suggestions, please send an e-mail!

FAQ's - General

Will you be upgrading all database solutions for Mac OS X and Windows XP?

Yes. It is my goal to complete all updates by the end of this year.

What is Shareware?

Shareware is software that you may download, try, and then buy (if you like it and continue to use it). When you pay the shareware fee, you enable developers (like me) to continue improving the software. Best of all, updates and upgrades for shareware are usually free for licensed users.

What is Donationware?

Donationware is software that you may download and use as much as you want. When you pay any donation for this software, you enable me to continue improving the software (I work more on software that generates income). Donations, of course, are very much appreciated.

How do I register software?

A Licensed User may register a product by clicking on the About button (from the Main Menu) and then, clicking on the Product Registration button on the lower left corner of the About screen. Complete and email this form to PCS. (Or, if you’d prefer, mail a printed copy to me.)

Should I be concerned about the year 2000+ and date functions?

No problems have been detected.

Who are your customers?

PCS develops products for individuals and small businesses (SOHO). The company's mission/goal is to help a client:

• Become Organized and Efficient
• Explore Personalized Database Solutions For Home and Office
• Develop a Web Presence (Great not only for your small business, but also for individuals/families/friends who want to keep in touch.)

Do you develop products just for the Mac?

Although PCS develops all products using Apple Mac's, I realize that individuals and businesses may choose to use other types of computers and platforms. I strive to provide a product that will allow flexibility, and plan to develop products for at least Macintosh and Windows. ... And yes, I test Windows versions in a Windows environment.

What Software do you use to develop database solutions?

FileMaker Pro™ Advanced (Developer's Edition).

What Software do you use to create web sites?

Adobe GoLive. (For a complete "tools" list, click on Behind The Site.)

How do you distribute software to paying customers?

PCS Software is distributed via downloads ONLY. For the latest versions, go here.

FAQ's - ARMS

What is ARMS?

Arms is a powerful and flexible tool for managing Aviation Resources of a Company (military). This software provides Instructors and Commanders a means of analyzing, tracking, and implementing an effective (an efficient) training program. Of course, it also allows Aviators/Crew Members to track and analyze their own flight time (requirements).

Database Feature Requests (# Feature Status)
If you wish to suggest a new feature (any existing database solution) or if you have ideas for an entirely new solution, send me an e-mail message.