MAG Softwrx, Inc. Knowledge Base

Will there ever be a Mac version of Timeless Time & Expense?

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Thu, 29 May 2008 17:54:00 GMT

Abstract:

Currently, a native Mac version is not planned. However, we continually monitor the marketplace and will reevaluate a Mac version periodically.

Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise web supports Mac browsers.

Installing Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web on XP Pro

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 09:32:00 GMT

Abstract:

Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web installed on Windows XP Professional may encounter problems due to the default limit of 10 connections to IIS. This limit may appear as random occurrences of missing images or the web application not responding to actions on the task hierarchy, calendar or entry list.

The connection limit can be raised as high as 40 to reduce or eliminate these problems. There are many articles with instructions on how to increase the limit. If this does not eliminate the problems, you will need to move to one of the other options.

Install Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise web on a hosted server

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 12:17:00 GMT

Abstract:

Even if you do not have an internal web server to use for time tracking, you may be able to use your shared hosting plan through your current internet service provider.

When installing a web application on a shared host at your internet service provider, you won't have access to the server or permissions to run an installation. You also will not have the access required to create user account on your SQL Server database. In a hosted scenario, Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web can be installed manually. If you are installing on your own server, you should use the Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web installation - it will automatically setup Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web as well as upgrade an existing TT&E database for the web.

Verify your web host meets the requirements. You must have ASP.Net 2.0 and SQL Server 2000, MSDE 2000, SQL Server 2005 or SQL Server Express 2005. You must also have the ability to create an application root for the Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web application.

Create the database schema on your database server. Download and run the utility to create a hosted Timeless Time & Expense database. You will run this utility locally connecting to your hosted database server. To run the utility you will need the name or IP address of your database server, the database name and the user id and password provided by your ISP to access the database server. If the you cancel the script or it fails, all changes will be rolled back.

Upload the Timeless Time & Expense web application to your server. Download and unzip the web application to a local dire

Backup your MDSE database

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 06:59:00 GMT

Abstract:

It is very important you backup your MSDE database. It is important to understand, the database file is in-use by the database server at all times. This means a file based backup utility will not backup the database correctly. You must use a tool specifically made to backup SQL Server/MSDE database.

In addition to backing up your database, it is always good practice to periodically restore the database to make sure your backups are successful. You should not restore to your Timeless MSDE server, but to a different MSDE server.

There are 4 choices for backing up your Timeless MSDE database. In all cases, an administrator on the server machine can use Integrated security to backup the database.

Microsoft SQL Server Enterprise Manager
If you have SQL Server, you can use Enterprise Manager. You already have it and are most likely backing up other database, so use it. Talk to your database administrator and have them assist you.

Microsoft SQL Server Management Studio Express
This is a free download for managing SQL Server 2005 Express, but it will also manage MSDE databases. If you are receiving insufficient access rights errors when backing up using SQL Server Management Studio Express, this article may help.

Third-party MSDE management tools
These tools are much like Enterprise Manager, but for companies without SQL Server, they are often less expensive. There are many to choose from. Because they use the MSDE Server, they have similar functionality. Pick the one that works best for you.&nbs

Enterprise Web for Personal Windows users

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 08:14:00 GMT

Abstract:

Timeless Time & Expense Personal data files may be imported into Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Windows. However, because each data file contains its own task hierarchy it is not practical to import and consolidate many Timeless Time & Expense Personal data files. For that reason, if you have many data files, we recommend starting clean or only importing one file.

Install Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web using one of the available database options. Open the Timeless web application in your browser and complete the setup wizard.

Install Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Windows. Use the File | Import Single-user File menu item to import each Timeless Time & Expense Personal data file (*.tls). If needed, reorganize or consolidate your hierarchy. When complete you may uninstall Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Windows if you only use the web version.

Enterprise Web for Enterprise Windows users

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 08:09:00 GMT

Abstract:

Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web can be used with the Windows version of Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise. However, it cannot use MS Access as a database option.

If you are using MS Access, you must first install one of the other database options and convert your database. Reinstall Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Windows, selecting the new database. Be sure all clients are connecting to the new database.

Finally, install Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web, selecting the same database as Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Windows.

What database should I use for TT&E Web

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 28 Mar 2007 08:09:00 GMT

Abstract:

SQL Server 2000 or SQL Server 2005 is best if you already have it. You will create the Timeless database on your server during the installation of Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web.

SQL Server 2005 Express is a free version of SQL Server 2005. This version is limited to using one CPU even in a multi-processor machine. There is also database size limit of 4GB. Database growth can vary greatly depending on how you use Timeless Time & Expense. We estimate anywhere from 1-10MB growth per user per year. You will create the Timeless database on your server during the installation of Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web. You will need to use a separate tool to backup your database.

Timeless MSDE is a free version SQL Server 2000 with some internal limitations. There is a limit of 5 concurrent database processes executing simultaneously and a 2GB database file size limit. This usually will not have an impact even in large installations. Database growth can vary greatly depending on how you use Timeless Time & Expense. We estimate anywhere from 1-10MB growth per user per year. You will need to use a separate tool to backup your database.

You will install the Timeless MSDE database server and create the Timeless database during the installation of Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web. The Timeless MSDE database does not have to be installed on your web server. You may run the Timeless Time & Expense Web installation first to create the database server on one machine, then run the installation again on your web server to install the web

Convert Access TT&E database to SQL Server

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 16:32:00 GMT

Abstract:

As your business grows you will want more users to track their time and expenses on more projects. As the demand increases, you may find the multi-user Access database is not performing as well as you would like. Access is limited in its ability to support a high number of users. SQL Server or MSDE can support more users.

To convert your Access Timeless Time & Expense database to SQL Server or MSDE, you must first create a SQL Server Timeless database as specified in this article.

Next, run the Timeless Access to SQL Server (or MSDE) database conversion. You must have already upgraded your access database to version 2.x to use this utility.

During the conversion, user passwords will be reset. You will have to reset the user passwords after conversion.

You should not run Timeless Time & Expense before running the conversion. If you do, DO NOT create sample tasks - the target database must be empty.

Finally, re-install each Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise on each pc, selecting the new database type and location.

What database should I use for TT&E?

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 21 Mar 2007 14:50:00 GMT

Abstract:

This document is for users installing Timeless Time & Expense Entperprise Windows. If you are converting from MS Access so you can use Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Web or will be installing Timeless Time & Expense Web alone or in additional to Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Windows, see this article.

SQL Server 2000 or SQL Server 2005 is best if you already have it. It requires more database administration than Access, but if you have SQL Server 2000 or 2005 already, you already have the resources to administer it. It is much faster than Access, especially as the number of users and task items increase. If you are using SQL Server 2000, run the Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise for Windows installation to create the database on your SQL Server. If you are using SQL Server 2005 you can not create the database using the Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Windows installation. You should use this utility to create the database on your server before running the Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise Windows.

SQL Server 2005 Express is a free version of SQL Server 2005. This version is limited to using one CPU even in a multi-processor machine. There is also database size limit of 4GB. Database growth can vary greatly depending on how you use Timeless Time & Expense. We estimate anywhere from 1-10MB growth per user per year. If you are using SQL Server 2005 Express you will not be able to create the database using the Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise installation. You should use this Contact us to receive a coupon code to upgrade your Personal to an Enterprise license.

Determine MSDE port number

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 18:34:00 GMT

Abstract:

To determine the port MSDE is using, run the SQL Server Network Utility on the machine hosting the MSDE instance. The SQL Server Network Utility can be found at \Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server\80\Tools\Binn\svrnetcn.exe.

On the general tab, select the TIMELESS_MSDE instance. Select TCP/IP and press the Properties button. Make a note of the default port. This is the port you will need.

Custom reporting

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 07:11:00 GMT

Abstract:

Because the multi-user version of Timeless Time & Expense uses Microsoft Access to store information, you can use other tools to do customized reporting.

There are many different ways to use data depending on the tool. Here are four possibilities. These are general descriptions because different versions of Windows will be slightly different. However, it should be enough information for an experienced developer to accomplish the task.

Using SQL Server
Use a ODBC Datasource
1) Open the ODBC Administrator through the Control Panel. This may be called Data sources and may be under the Administrative tools.
2) Add a new DSN using the SQL Server driver.
3) Select your Instance where you installed the Database.
4) Specify Timeless as the SQL Server database
5) The user id is "TTEguest". Due to changing password complexity requirements of Windows servers, the TTEGuest password may be blank, 'TTEguest1' or 'TT#gu3st'.

Using MS Access
Use a ODBC Datasource
1) Open the ODBC Administrator through the Control Panel. This may be called Data sources and may be under the Administrative tools.
2) Add a new DSN using the Microsoft Access (*.mdb) driver.
3) Select your Timeless.tmd as the Database.
4) Select the option to use a System Database and select Timeless.tmw from the same directory as in step #3.
5) The user id is "guest" and there is no default password.

Using Access to Link to or Export data from TT&E - Access does not allow connecting to another Access database through an ODBC datasource. You will need to use the TT&E security database with your other Access database.
1) Create a new database through Access.
2) Close Access and the new database
3) Create a shortcut to the multi-user timeless database with the following target. on one line:&nb

Move TT&E database to a new server

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 03 Jan 2007 19:43:00 GMT

Abstract:

Occasionally, you will have the need to move your SQL Server database to a new server. To move a database, you will need SQL Server Enterprise manager or another MSDE administration tool.

Before any database major database maintenance, be sure to backup your database!

If you are using MSDE, run the Timeless MSDE installation. After the installation has completed, use SQL Server Enterprise manager or your choice of MSDE administration tools to detach the Timeless database from the TIMELESS_MSDE database server.

Detach the Timeless database from the old server. Next, copy the Timeless database from the old server to the new server. If using TimelessMSDE, you will copy over the database files on the new server. Now, attach the copied database to the new server. Finally, run the Reset TT&E SQL Server database utility to reset user names and passwords.

To point Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise for Windows to the new server, rerun the installation on each client to select the new database server. If you are comfortable modifying the Windows registry, you can change the HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\MAG Softwrx\Timeless Time & Expense Multiuser\Database\LastDatabaseServer key to point to the new server.

To point Timeless Time & Expense Enterprise for Web to the new server, modify the web.config file on the web server and change the <appSetting> databaseLocation key to the new server.

Timeless MSDE database

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 25 Sep 2006 11:43:00 GMT

Abstract:

MSDE is a free version SQL Server 2000 with some internal limitations. There is a limit of 5 concurrent database processes executing simultaneously. This usually will not have an impact even in large installations. If many users were to run reports at the same time, you may see some performance degradation.

Database file sizes are also limited to 2GB. Database growth can vary greatly depending on how you use Timeless Time & Expense. We estimate anywhere from 1-10MB growth per user per year. We suggest checking the growth every 6-12 months to get a better estimate of your actual usage.

You will need to use a separate tool to backup your database.

Timeless MSDE is a separate installation that will install a MSDE and create an initial Timeless database. You should install the Timeless MSDE database server on a server machine, not a workstation. This will ensure the database is always available. The server does not have to be dedicated to Timeless, but we recommend it be at least 400mhz with 32mb of memory beyond that required for other machine processes. More memory or a faster processor will be required for larger installations and will provide increased performance.

Restoring a Timeless Time & Expense Access database from backup

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Thu, 27 Jul 2006 07:36:00 GMT

Abstract:

Timeless Time & Expense has the built-in capability to backup your database in you are using the MS Access database option. Restoring from a backup is a manual process as it will result in a loss of data if the database is inadvertently restored.

To restore an Access database backup:
1) Logoff all uses including administrators.
2) Copy the current Timeless.tmd and Timeless.tmw database files to a different location. This is a safety precaution in case you change your mind.
3) Replace the Timeless.tmd and Timeless.tmw files with the *.tmd and *.tmw files from backup. Depending on the location and name you gave when backing up, you will need to copy to the correct location and rename files to Timeless.tmd and Timeless.tmw.

Connect to Timeless MSDE remotely

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 19 Apr 2006 10:30:00 GMT

Abstract:

When MSDE is installed, a port is randomly selected. If you do not specify the correct port, you will not be able to successfully connect to the MSDE Timeless database.

First, determine the port MSDE is using. Then, during the Timeless Time & Expense Multi-user specify the server as the IP address of the server, server port. Ex 111.111.111.111,1234 where 1234 is the default port from the previous step.

You will also have to configure your firewall to forward all traffic on the specified port to the server TimelessMSDE was installed on.

Upgrade single-user to 2.6

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 12 Apr 2006 19:15:00 GMT

Abstract:

Timeless Time & Expense version 2.6 is a free upgrade for registered users.

Upgrading to version 2.6 is as easy as downloading the full 2.6 installation and installing over your existing installation. You can find the latest full version from our downloads page at http://www.magsoftwrx.com/downloads.htm.

Be aware, when opening a file created in a previous version of Timeless Time & Expense, you will be prompted to upgrade the file. Once the file is upgraded, you will not be able to open it in the previous version.

Trial user can upgrade their trial version. However, it will not extend or reset the trial period. Registered users will not have to re-enter their registration information after they install the new version.

How do I transfer data to another pc

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 13 Mar 2006 20:12:00 GMT

Abstract:

The single user data files use the extension tls. The name of the file is displayed in the title bar when running TT&E. This is the file you need to copy between machines. By default this file is stored in My Documents folder. If you save it somewhere else, you will have to use the windows search feature to find it. When searching, be sure to append ".tls" to the name if is not displayed in the title bar.

If you are transferring the data file because you are moving to new pc, you will not want to create a new file when you first open TT&E. To do this, cancel at the new user prompt, then use the File | Open menu item to open the transferred file.

How do I add an entry for a day in the past?

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 13 Mar 2006 20:11:00 GMT

Abstract:

Select the day using the calendar, then insert an entry as usual by using the Insert | New Time Entry menu item. Expenses can also be entered the same way.

Because TT&E can add entries from other entries in addition to tasks, it depends on what item has focus. So to be able to do this, you must first highlight the date, and then select the task.

When in date view, this also means you can add a new entry by selecting an existing entry for a task and then selecting the Insert | New Time Entry item.

It is sometimes easier and less confusing to use the pop-up menus by right-clicking on the item after selecting a date.

Ad-Aware false positive for VirtualBouncer or WinManage.

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Thu, 09 Mar 2006 06:44:00 GMT

Abstract:

This has been fixed with Ad-Aware definition update SE1R96 09.03.2006. You may have to unload and reload Ad-Watch either before or after the definition update if the Timeless Time & Expense multiuser installation is being identified as different adware (possibly WinPopup).

It has come to our attention that Ad-aware SE Professional, a popular spyware detection tool by Lavasoft, is identifying the installation of Timeless Time & Expense Multiuser as containing the malware VirtualBouncer or WinManage. VirtualBouncer is a program that masquerades as a legitimate spyware remover, but instead will connect to a remote server to download instructions and display pop-up ads. As best we can tell, WinManage also displays Ads.

We have submitted Timeless Time & Expense Multiuser to Lavasoft for review, so they can fix the false positive detection in Ad-Aware SE Professional. They are actively working on a solution.

Ad-Aware originally identified TT&E multiuser as VirtualBouncer. Starting with definition update SE1R95 06.03.2006, Ad-Aware identifies TT&E multiuser as WinManage.

Timeless Time & Expense does not contain VirtualBouncer, WinManage or WinPopup. MAG Softwrx, Inc. has been in business since 1997. In that time, we have always put our customers' satisfaction first. We would not sacrifice our business, our customers or our employees for the short-term gain associated with distribution of VirtualBouncer or WinManage.

We have tested with three other spyware detection tools. It is only the Ad-Watch component of Ad-Aware SE Professional that identifies a problem. None of the other detection tools tested identified a problem in either their real-time or full scan components. Additionally, Ad-Aware did not detect a problem when running a full system scan.

We also ins

Runtime error after logon

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Thu, 02 Mar 2006 10:24:00 GMT

Abstract:

There are two solutions to this problem.

1) Download the latest version of Timeless Time & Expense multi-user. This was resolved in version 2.50.05.

2) Rename the files in C:\Documents and Settings\<username>\Application Data\MAG Softwrx\Timeless Time and Expense directory seems to resolve the problem. These files are used to keep track of the task item expanded state.

If #1 does not work, but #2 does, we would appreciate it if you would send the renamed files and your TT&E database. This will help use to isolate and prevent the problem in the future. Please contact support for details.

If neither solution fixes your problem, it is a new, unreported problem. Please contact support so we can troubleshoot.

Generic Project Management Interface

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 13 Feb 2006 08:14:00 GMT

Abstract:

Timeless Time & Expense can import project hierarchies using the Tools | Projects menu item. Timeless Time & Expense comes with an interface for Microsoft Project 98/2000/2002/2003.

This add-in allows you to import a task hierarchy from a Comma Delimited File. This can be used to move hierarchies between single user versions of TT&E or even to move from the single-user to the multi-user version. It will also update a comma delimited file with time and expense information.

After downloading and installing, please see the new help file under the Timeless Time & Expense program group for file structure details.

This add-in requires a registered version of Timeless Time & Expense.

Schedule TT&E Access Database Repair

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 09 Jan 2006 17:07:00 GMT

Abstract:

The multi-user version of Timeless Time & Expense uses Microsoft Access as one of its database choices. Access is a file-based database. As such it is susceptible to corruption when database connections are lost. Database connections can be lost for a number of reasons. A client or server machine being shutdown or rebooted unexpectedly, or even poor network hardware can cause a loss of connection. Microsoft has some recommendations for reducing corruption in Access databases. You can read them here.

How Timeless Time & Expense reduces corruption
Starting with version 1.40.06 of Timeless Time & Expense, it is even easier to keep your database in good condition. Starting with this version, Timeless Time & Expense will automatically disconnect from the database after one hour. This means a short time after normal working hours are complete, you can be sure no users will be logged into the database. The database can easily be compressed and repaired without requesting all users to log off. Additionally, version 1.0.02 of the database repair utility can be executed from the command line or scheduled using the windows scheduler. And because you know users will be logged out, you can backup your database using your existing backup software after the database compression and repair. Meaning you will be backing up a good database each night. Note - this utility will not repair all Access databases, only those used by Timeless Time & Expense.

Scheduling Database Compact and Repair
First, install the database repair utility. Ideally, this would be run on the machine hosting the database, but it can b

Upgrade multi-user to 2.6

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 26 Dec 2005 20:22:00 GMT

Abstract:

Timeless Time & Expense version 2.6 is a free upgrade for registered users.

Upgrading to version 2.6 is as easy as downloading the full 2.6 installation and installing over your existing installation. If you are upgrading from version 1.40, be sure to upgrade your database during the installation.

While the multi-user database is identical in structure to version 2.0, it contains a new report type. If one user creates a shared Progress report in version 2.5+ and another user still has version 2.0, the report will not run. Assignment to do entries will also not be displayed for 2.0 users. For this reason, we recommend upgrading all user to version 2.5+ at the same time.

If you are upgrading from version 1.40.x, you must upgrade the database first, followed by all client workstations. Once the database has been upgraded, 1.40.x clients will not be able to access the upgraded database.

Trial user can upgrade their trial version. However, it will not extend or reset the trial period.

What is new in the upgrade to 2.6?

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 26 Dec 2005 20:18:00 GMT

Abstract:

Timeless Time & Expense 2.6 include the new Timesheet view and ability to copy portions of the task hiearchy. The timesheet view provides an easy way to view or enter a week's worth of time.

Timeless Time & Expense 2.5 includes the new Progress Report. This report allows you to easily track project status. It is like a summary report for entire tasks including variances from time estimates as well as from due dates. The complete dates are tracked through 'Assignment' to do entries.

In the single-user version, to do entries are 'flagged' as assignment entries when created. Only one To Do entry per Task hierarchy is allowed, as the assignment entry is used for tracking the status of the task.

In the multi-user version, Assignments are created from the Task Properties. These assignments are shown as To Do entries for the each user the task was assigned to. Different estimates and due dates may be entered for each user.

Lost registration

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 23 May 2005 21:02:00 GMT

Abstract:

Fill out our registration resend form using the e-mail address of your original order to have your registration automatically sent.

If that address is no longer valid, fill out our support form indicating the original e-mail address you used when you ordered. If that e-mail is no longer active, please include that e-mail in your message as well as the address or phone number used when ordering. Please allow 24 hours to manually process your request.

Single-user file import

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 02 May 2005 17:31:00 GMT

Abstract:

The multi-user version of Timeless Time & Expense can now import single-user files. However, this is a limited conversion. It is designed to import multiple single-user files for those who are already using the single-user version in teams. It is not meant for single-users who will continue to work individually. The single-user is still the best choice for those working alone. This means limiting the data that is converted so data integrity can be maintained. It also means a manual process to fully consolidate entries.

Preparation
1) The most important step in time tracking is setting up a hierarchy that makes sense. Take some time to think about your projects. Modify task levels if needed to accurately reflect your business. Create your task items as needed.
2) Check your activities, expense types and payment methods. When importing a file, you must have all activities, expense types and payment methods found in the single-user file defined in the multi-user files. You may need to rename items in the single-user file to exactly match those in the multi-user files. You may also need to create new items in the multi-user database. As a last resort, you may have to delete items in single-user files.
3) Update any MS Projects you may have imported into the single-user files. Projects are not converted because the multi-user version updates all resources at once. Importing projects from different files would result in duplicate projects in the multi-user version. For best results, add the MS Projects to the multi-user version before consolidating imported data.
4) Files may be imported even after you have started using the multi-user version, so be sure you do not have entries for the same day in both the multi-user database and single-user file for the same user. Run summary reports summarized by

Multi-user installation tips

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 02 May 2005 16:27:00 GMT

Abstract:

Installing any multi-user program requires more planning than a single user program and success depends more on the choices you make during the installation. Timeless Time & Expense is no different, so here are some tips to ensure your installation is a success.

Planning
Decide where you will install the shared database. For Access, this must be a network location or a share on a workstation where all TT&E users have both read and write permissions. For SQL Server this should be a server accessible to everyone.

Initial Installation
Install one workstation first. During this installation only, you will select the option to "Create a new database". When prompted for the database location, select the location you chose above.

User Setup
TT&E has a default Administrator account. The account name is TTEAdmin and the initial password is blank. This account is very limited so you will need to create other users to create tasks and log time. Use the Tools | Users menu item to create a users with the permissions for each user. During the trial period you can add as many users as you would like and we encourage you to do so.

Additional user installations
Install on other user's workstations. During these installations, you should not create new databases. You should select the option to select an existing database. When prompted to select the database, browse to the database created with the initial installation. You must select the same database during all installations.

Getting Started
We encourage you to read the tutorial (menu item Help | Tutorial). It only takes a short amount of time and is the best way to learn all the key features of Timeless Time & Expense. There is no better way to get up to speed and get the most out of Timeless Time & Expense.

Selecting database location

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Fri, 22 Apr 2005 17:40:00 GMT

Abstract:

Whether you choose MS Access or MSDE, we strongly recommend you install the database on a server machine. Installing on a user workstation can cause problems with availabilty, maintenance and database corruption if using MS Access.

MS Access is a file based database. That means each workstation will access the Access database file directly. The database must be placed in a share location where every user will have full permissions on the share location.

MSDE is a true server database. It can be installed on Windows 98 or higher, but we recommend Windows 2000 or higher. All users must have access to the database server. Be sure there are no firewalls blocking the port MSDE is running on.

Get Program updates

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Tue, 19 Apr 2005 18:20:00 GMT

Abstract:

There are three ways to get Timeless Time & Expense program updates.

1) Automatically. If you selected this option during installation, TT&E will check approximately every 28 days when Windows starts.
2) Use the "Check for Updates" icon in them Start | Program Files | Timeless Time & Expense folder.
3) Download the full version from the downloads page of our website.

Options 1 and 2 will download programs updates only. Downloads will be smaller and download time shorter.

Time, Date and Currency Formats

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Tue, 19 Apr 2005 17:56:00 GMT

Abstract:

Timeless Time & Expense uses the formats defined in the Windows control panel regional settings. This ensures TT&E confirms to Windows user interface standards and works for all users regardless of geographic location.

Unexpected file format

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Tue, 19 Apr 2005 17:44:00 GMT

Abstract:

The "Unexpected File Format" error occurs when something has corrupted the Timeless Time & Expense Single-user (*.tls) file. Historically, this has been disk corruption and not related to the operation of Timeless Time & Expense.

The corruption can occur when saving the file saving the *.tls file if it hits a "bad" part of the harddrive. The file may also become corrupted after the file is saved. If the corruption occurs during the save and the operating system reports it, there will be a backup file. Depending on the version of Windows and the original file location, the backup will be found in different places. Use the Windows search functionality to search the entire drive for "<filename>.tls backup" where <filename> is the original file name. If the file is found, open it to verify its contents. If the file is acceptable, copy it to the original filename and open it in TT&E.

If you do not find the file, restore from a previous backup using your Backup software.

Time entries missing

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Mon, 18 Apr 2005 17:33:00 GMT

Abstract:

When it seems time entries are missing, it is usually because you are using a different View than normal. There two view modes, Date and Task. When in date view, entries are displayed for the date selected in the calendar. When in task view, entries are displayed for the selected task.

When restarting Timeless Time & Expense in a different view than normal, the entry list may show blank when starting in task view because the top level task item is selected. In date view the same can happen if not entries have been made for the current day.

To check if this is the problem, click the View menu to see which view is selected. The view selected is also shown by the Task and Date view buttons on the toolbar.

Do I need more licenses?

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Sat, 16 Apr 2005 20:24:00 GMT

Abstract:

This depends. Timeless Time & Expense allows you to inactivate users who no longer need access TT&E. This means you can re-use licenses for employees who have left your company.

Any administrator can use the Tools | Users menu item to activate or inactivate users. You can also see the total number of active and registered users. When the number of active users exceeds the number of registered users, you will need to purchase more licenses before adding users.

Adding user licenses

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Sat, 16 Apr 2005 20:23:00 GMT

Abstract:

Multiple license numbers may be combined to increase the number of active users. When placing an order for additional licenses, be sure to use the exact registration name as the Company Name on the order form. This will ensure license work together.

If you've already placed and received your order but the licenses do not work together, contact support to have your license number re-issued.

Single user and multi-user differences

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Sat, 16 Apr 2005 19:58:00 GMT

Abstract:

Feature-wise, the two versions are almost identical. The single user version is optimized to be smaller and slightly faster. The data files can be moved between machines such as a laptop and PC easily.

The multi-user version uses a database so data can be shared. Of course, the multi-user version contains specific features such as different user rates, task permissions and multi-user reporting, that are required in a multi-user environment.

New tasks not visible

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Sat, 16 Apr 2005 19:53:00 GMT

Abstract:

Other users may enter new tasks in Timeless Time & Expense for use by all users. But you won't see them right away because TT&E does not automatically refresh the task hierarchy because it can be a time consuming operation. You can automatically refresh the task hierarchy by pressing F5.

If you are using Task level security, be sure you have been given permission to the new task items.

Duplicate Task Hierarchy

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Sat, 16 Apr 2005 19:34:00 GMT

Abstract:

Currently, there is not copy-paste or a specific task hierarchy import feature. There is a way to do something similar. It uses the Tools | Projects menu item. This was built to allow importing a project from another source - most commonly Microsoft Project. However, once the project plan is imported, the project link can be deleted, leaving only the task hierarchy.

MS Project is the easiest way to do this. But if you do not have MS Project, registered users can use the "Generic Project Management Interface" downloadable from our website here - http://www.magsoftwrx.com/downloads.htm. It allows you to define a project as a Comma Separated Values (CSV) file. The file can be created manually, or using TT&E through a creative use of a Summary report Export. You can find details in the help file installed with the interface.

Error 0x80040154 retrieving Project Management interfaces

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Thu, 14 Apr 2005 21:10:00 GMT

Abstract:

In Timeless Time & Expense this error occurs when another application installed an incorrect system file in Windows. This was fairly common in the past as a common tool used for developing applications made it very easy to install the wrong files. You can fix the problem by downloading and running the program below.

If you are not using Timeless Time & Expense, but found this page through a web search of the error number, you should not install this fix. The error number indicates that a COM object is not registered. The program available here is to fix the installation of a specific COM object. Probably not the same one you are having problems with.

Provider not found

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 13 Apr 2005 18:34:00 GMT

Abstract:

This error means part of the Microsoft Data Access Components (MDAC) has become corrupted. This is a common component included with Windows XP and used by Timeless Time & Expense. Components of it are used by many software products. It is possible other software may have uninstalled part of it or it may just mean some components have been unregistered.

However, MDAC is difficult to fix if it has become corrupted. MDAC cannot be uninstalled and re-installed. If there is an upgraded MDAC this can be installed to fix the problem. Operating system service packs may also correct the problem. Timeless Time & Expense installs version MDAC version 2.8.

If there is not a new version of MDAC and installing the latest service pack for your operating system does not solve the problem, try the following.

Look for the following dlls. Open a command window. For each dll, "regsvr32 <full path\filename>".

C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\ole db\sqloledb.dll
C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\ole db\Oledb32.dll
C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\ole db\Msdasql.dll
C:\Program Files\Common Files\System\msadc\Msadce.dll

If you do not find all the files or this does not fix the problem, you should use component checker to isolate other missing files. Feel free to contact us directly to assist you in this step.

Convert single-user data to multi-user

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 13 Apr 2005 17:48:00 GMT

Abstract:

What is an ''active'' user?

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 13 Apr 2005 17:10:00 GMT

Abstract: An active user is someone who is able to log into Timeless Time & Expense multi-user. You decide who can log in be setting users 'active' in their properties. User properties are found by selecting menu item Tools | Users, then editing a user. We provide the ability to make a user inactive, so you don't waste a license on a user who no longer uses TT&E. This way you can keep all the entries the user made and continue to get accurate reports.

Set a single user rate for all clients

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 13 Apr 2005 17:08:00 GMT

Abstract: To complete this task, you must have the required permissions of Administrator and Maintain Billing. To set a single user rate for all clients, you should first change your task levels so you have a top level above your current top task level. Select the menu item Tools | Options, then on the Task Levels tab, rename each task level, moving them down. Set the top level to your new name. Press OK. Next create a new top level task with your company name or whatever is appropriate. Then drag your existing tasks to the new top level. TT&E will prompt you because it will adjust the task levels of the moved tasks. Finally, enter billing rates for the top task and set the sub tasks to Use Parent Billing Information.

Can I run the single-user and multi-user version on one computer?

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 13 Apr 2005 16:53:00 GMT

Abstract: The multi-user and single-user versions of Timeless Time & Expense are two distinct programs that have no connection to each other. They do not share data or program files. They can run on the same machine, even at the same time, and not interfere with each other.

How do I move an entry to a different day?

MAG Softwrx, Inc — Wed, 13 Apr 2005 16:45:00 GMT

Abstract:

Drag the entry you want to move to the calendar and drop it on the day you want to move it to. Note - you can only move an entry while in Date View.