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PlaneBaseNG
Aircraft Database Program
Instruction Manual
Table of Contents
Program Set Up ...............................................................................................3
Options Panel (Left of screen) .........................................................................5
Current ID box ..............................................................................................5
Show Aircraft ................................................................................................5
Show Status .................................................................................................5
History ID......................................................................................................5
Database selection.......................................................................................5
Prefix ............................................................................................................6
Type .............................................................................................................6
Operator .......................................................................................................6
Base Airport..................................................................................................7
Logs .............................................................................................................7
Text Search ..................................................................................................8
List Grid (Right of screen) ................................................................................8
Sorting the List .............................................................................................8
List navigate buttons ....................................................................................9
Information line.............................................................................................9
Main Panel (Centre of Screen).........................................................................9
Database Names..........................................................................................9
Add Photo.....................................................................................................9
Log it .......................................................................................................... 10
Pending ...................................................................................................... 11
Autolog ....................................................................................................... 11
MultiLog...................................................................................................... 12
Populating the Registration List.................................................................. 12
Bulk Load................................................................................................ 12
List Selection .......................................................................................... 13
Processing the List ..................................................................................... 13
Logging the List .......................................................................................... 13
Show Logged ............................................................................................. 14
Menu Line ...................................................................................................... 14
File ............................................................................................................. 14
Change Default DB ................................................................................. 14
Import/Export Databases ........................................................................ 14
Exit.......................................................................................................... 14
Options ....................................................................................................... 14
Automatic Back Up ................................................................................. 14
Colours ................................................................................................... 14
Confirm Exit ............................................................................................ 15
Dash Auto Insert ..................................................................................... 15
1
Fill Blanks ............................................................................................... 15
Grid Lines ............................................................................................... 15
IATA Airport Codes ................................................................................. 15
Include Mil/GA in searches ..................................................................... 15
Info Beep ................................................................................................ 15
Keyboard ................................................................................................ 15
List Bold .................................................................................................. 15
List Font Size .......................................................................................... 15
Photolog Enabled ................................................................................... 15
SQB Options........................................................................................... 16
USAF Quicksearch ................................................................................. 16
Wide Locations ....................................................................................... 16
Registration Mode................................................................................... 16
Tools .......................................................................................................... 16
Compact Databases ............................................................................... 16
Back Up ‘Log Databases’........................................................................ 16
Delete ‘Type Log’ Entry........................................................................... 17
Flightlog .................................................................................................. 17
Function Key List .................................................................................... 18
Mail Set Up ............................................................................................. 18
Multi Type Filters .................................................................................... 19
Needs Lists (create/edit) ......................................................................... 20
Photolog.................................................................................................. 21
Remove Seen History Details ................................................................. 22
EditLogs ..................................................................................................... 23
Populating the grid .................................................................................. 23
Statistics ................................................................................................. 23
Grid Display ............................................................................................ 24
Editing Entries......................................................................................... 24
Individual Search .................................................................................... 24
Bulk Processes Menu ............................................................................. 24
Actions menu.............................................................................................. 24
Compare Logs ........................................................................................ 24
Fill Types/ c/n /Series ............................................................................. 25
Rebuild Type Tables ............................................................................... 25
Reconcile Log and Database.................................................................. 25
Refresh First Seen Details ...................................................................... 25
Search ........................................................................................................ 25
Amarg List............................................................................................... 25
Boeing Customer Codes......................................................................... 25
Base Country .......................................................................................... 25
Code ....................................................................................................... 26
Continent ................................................................................................ 26
Country ................................................................................................... 26
Country Base List ................................................................................... 26
Country Opr List...................................................................................... 26
Fixed Callsign ......................................................................................... 26
Full Database.......................................................................................... 26
Hex Code (Single) .................................................................................. 26
Hex Code (Country) ................................................................................ 26
History Prefix .......................................................................................... 27
Information Field ..................................................................................... 27
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Needs Lists Search................................................................................. 27
Registered Month ................................................................................... 27
Reserved Reg’n ...................................................................................... 27
Series...................................................................................................... 28
Suffix....................................................................................................... 28
Total Seen .............................................................................................. 28
Type Count ............................................................................................. 28
Print Options............................................................................................... 28
Single Column ........................................................................................ 29
Multiple Columns .................................................................................... 29
Updates ........................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
Import Logs............................................................................................. 30
Update Types ......................................................................................... 25
Clear........................................................................................................... 30
Help............................................................................................................ 30
Downloads ................................................ Error! Bookmark not defined.
File Check............................................................................................... 30
Other....................................................................................................... 30
Version/Disclaimer .................................................................................. 30
3
Program Set Up
Initially, it is necessary to set up the program….
1) Download the starter folder ‘Planebase_folder.zip’
2) Unzip and double click the file, acknowledging any messages. The
folder will be placed onto the c:\ drive named ‘c:\planebase’
3) Within this folder is a sub-folder named 'pb_prog'
4) Within the sub folder is a file named 'setup.exe' - double click this and
follow the prompts.
5) Run the planebase.exe file located in the ‘c:\planebase’ folder
6) Select ‘Downloads from the menu line’. From the panel that appears,
download and unzip the following files into the ‘c:\planebase’ folder.
Exec Database
Airliner Database
Military Database
GenAv Database
You may wish to create
a desk top icon for
ease. Right click
‘planebase .exe’, select
‘create shortcut’ and
drag the resulting file
onto the desk top.
If you have populated Logs It is now necessary to populate the downloaded
databases with them. Select from the options in the ‘Import Logs’ section.
4
The Exec and Airliner import will be quicker than the others due to the size of
the databases. Compacting is important to maintain the speed of the program
and this is performed as part of this process. This can also be done via the
Tools > Compact Databases option.
Options Panel (Left of screen)
Current ID box
This text box allows a search of all available databases for a current
registration or reserved registration. A dash (-) in civil registrations is optional,
subject to the choice under ‘Options’. Should more than one ‘current’
registration be found the results will be displayed in the list.
Wildcard searches may be performed by substituting a question mark for the
wildcard character.
This option is also available via the <F3> key or by clicking in the ‘Current
Reg’ box.
Should the registration not be found, a ‘History ID’ search will be offered.
Show Aircraft
This drop down box gives three options to restrict searches to All aircraft,
only those Needed or only those Seen. The default option is All aircraft.
Show Status
This drop down box gives options to restrict searches to Active aircraft,
Inactive aircraft, aircraft On order, Extant, Active and On Order or All
aircraft. The selection will be remembered.
History ID
This enables a search for all occurrences of a registration. All instances of the
registration found will be displayed with type and c/n in the list box. The centre
panel will display any aircraft currently registered as such.
Selecting an aircraft in the list box will display the current details of that aircraft
with the selected registration highlighted in red. If there are no aircraft
currently with that registration an information box will display details.
Wildcard searches may be performed by substituting a question mark for the
wildcard character.
Database selection
Most of the following options require a database and sort selection.
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Some options require
selection from a list, others
require text. This should
only be done after the
required databases are
selected from the list.
‘Bulk add’ buttons are also
displayed which will select
various databases subject to
the caption.
Prefix
Entering a registration prefix will list details of aircraft with registrations
currently carrying that prefix, subject to the selected Databases, 'Show
aircraft' and 'Show Status' selection. No dash is required unless extra
characters are required, i.e ‘HB’ returns all Swiss whereas ‘HB-V’ returns only
those. By using ‘<>’ it is possible to exclude one prefix, i.e ‘<>N’ excludes all
N reg aircraft.
Type
Aircraft types can be listed in three formats, sorted by Con No., Reg’n or Line
No. order, chosen via the drop down box. The input panel containing a drop
down list of aircraft types relevant to the selected database will be displayed.
Select one to list instances of that type, subject to the 'Show aircraft' and
'Show Status' selection and sorted by the chosen option.
Some aircraft sub types can be listed collectively. Available ones shown are
at the start of the lists under '.all'. There is also a ‘..wildcard. option that
prompts for text to search ‘types’ for, i.e ‘Learjet 3’ displays all ‘Learjet
31/35/36’ etc. Similarly, a wildcard/prefix option can be used by separating
the two by a slash, i.e ‘falcon/HB’ to list all HB- Falcons etc.
If the selected type does not have line numbers there is a warning message.
Operator
Depending on the selected database, up to four options are available for
searching by operator: Name, Code, Acft Type or Wildcard.
Code prompts for an ICAO 3 letter operator code, which then displays details
of aircraft in the selected database with that operator code sorted in
registration order subject to the selected Databases, 'Show aircraft' and 'Show
Status' selection.
Name displays the input panel with a drop down list of operators relevant to
the selected database to select from.
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Acft Type displays a panel with a drop down box for an operator to be
selected. A list of aircraft types is populated for individual selection.
Tick the ‘series’ box to filter further by series. Enter
prefix digit(s), ie ‘3’ to list ‘300’ series aircraft. The
text may be any length.
The results may the further filtered by entering a
base airport code.
Wildcard enables entry of any text to be searched for within the operator field,
order subject to the selected Databases, 'Show aircraft' and 'Show Status'
selection.
Base Airport
Base airports can be searched in three ways, depending on the option
selected:
Name will bring up a drop down list of airport names, which, when selected
will list the aircraft based at that airport sorted by registration and subject to
the selected Databases, sort order, 'Show aircraft' and 'Status' selection.
Code will prompt for an airport code, which will then display details as above.
State will prompt for a US or Canada 2 letter state code which produces a
display of the results sorted by airport and registration and subject to the
selected Databases, sort order, 'Show aircraft' and 'Status' selection.
Country Aircraft based in a specified country can be listed by entering the
registration prefix of that country, no dash required. The results are sorted by
registration and subject to the selected Databases, sort order, 'Show aircraft'
and 'Status' selection.
Wildcard enables entry of text to be searched for within the Base/Airport field,
order subject to the selected Databases, 'Show aircraft' and 'Show Status'
selection.
Logs
It is possible to search logs for a date, an airport, date & airport, a date range
or airport and date range. Select options as required and enter text.
You can choose between displaying just those that were needed or everything
logged. Also a ‘current DB only’ option restricts the search to aircraft types
held in the currently selected database and whilst in ‘registration’ mode a
‘Frames Only’ option is available.
The resulting display shows the reg/type/cn and truncated operator. The
operator may be expanded by selecting the ‘<’ that appears in the bottom
centre of the grid. Reg/frames needed are displayed in the usual format.
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Text Search
This option will search the databases for registrations found within a section of
text that has been copied onto the clipboard and displays details of any
aircraft found.
There are two options. ‘Mini’ will display the results on the main grid.
‘Detailed’ opens up a new panel where additional details and extra filters are
available.
Upon selecting ‘Text Search’ a panel appears. The selected text is displayed
in the right side panel. Selecting from this box displays that line of text in full.
The ‘Search by’ box gives four options depending on where the registration
starts within the text, ‘First Column’, ‘Second Column’ or the ability to select
the start position from a ‘Grid’. ‘FR24’ will search an area of text selected from
the Flightradar 24 airports display (copy top left time to bottom right status
onto clipboard ctrl+C). ‘FR24 (I.E)’ will search text copied from Internet
Explorer, ‘FR24 (Other)’ will search text from other browsers.
There is an option box allowing searches only by active aircraft. The default is
‘on’. Beneath this is a ‘Need’ box for displaying needed and unknown aircraft
only. The default for this is ‘Off’.
A Dash is optional, as is an ‘N’ before a US registration. Results are sorted by
aircraft type and are printable. Items not found will also be listed at the top of
the list box, these may consist of non-reg text or registrations not found.
Additionally, the ‘Detailed’ panel allows for filtering by registration prefix.
Current operators are displayed and a ‘Check Photos’ option will indicate
whether the current reg/cn mix is logged in the ‘Photos’ database.
List Grid (Right of screen)
The list grid on the right of the screen displays the results of the various
searches. The number of columns and their width will vary with the options
chosen. Details of the search, including a count of total records found and
seen will be shown in the upper title boxes. The first column displays a ‘seen’
indicator in reversed colours. In ‘seen history’ mode this will retain the grid
background colour to indicate that the aircraft has been seen but not as the
current registration.
Selecting an aircraft in the list will display its details in the centre panel.
Sorting the List
The columns can be sorted in computer logic order by clicking the relevant
heading.
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List navigate buttons
Beneath the list box are several buttons. Where there are more than 25
aircraft displayed, '<'&'>' will move the list box display to the previous or next
'page'. After selecting a row, '-‘ & '+' will move up or down, displaying aircraft
details in the centre panel. Also, arrow up and down does the same thing.
Information line
This displays a reminder of the options selected in the 'Show Aircraft' and
'Show Status' boxes.
Main Panel (Centre of Screen)
This panel contains the individual chosen aircraft details. If there is previous
operator information the drop down box will turn yellow.
In ‘frame’ mode, clicking a populated 'seen where' box will produce a
message showing airport details. Clicking the 'seen when' box will bring up a
populated log search box to enable searching for aircraft seen at that airport
on that date.
Several fields have titles in bold text. On clicking in the field it is possible to
search by the contents of that field, subject to the Database, sort, Show
Aircraft and Status options.
Clicking the ‘Registration History’ boxes gives a date registered and cancelled
if it is held in the database..
It is possible to step forward or backward through the database using the < >
control buttons or arrow right/left does the same, after clicking in a central box.
Database Names
The drop down box allows selection of the various available databases. The
Military database option will disable some program options and rearrange
parts of the layout.
Add Photo
This option will only be displayed if ‘Photolog Enable’ is selected in the
Options menu. Select this option to add the currently displayed aircraft in the
Photolog database. A right side panel will open with basic details.
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In a similar way to ‘Log It’, add an
operator, date of the photo, Location of
the photo (in plain text or code) and
Notes.
To add a link to the photo, select the
‘URL’ button and navigate to the file or
enter the location manually.
Store the details by selecting ‘Store
Photo’.
Exit the panel at any time by selecting
‘Exit Photo’
The airport option buttons are available
as they are in ‘Log It’
Log it
Selecting this option transfers
details of the currently displayed
aircraft into the ‘Log It’ frame.
The date can be selected via
three list boxes. The ‘current
operator’ is displayed and
previous ones may be selected
via the drop down or amended
by typing into the box.
All registrations for the selected
aircraft are listed in a drop down
box to enable logging of P.I’s.
Enter an airport code into the
‘Loc’ box. A list of regularly used
airports can be compiled using
the ‘Add Airport’ option or
deleted using the ‘Delete Airport’
option.
If the ICAO is not known the airport may be selected by selecting ‘Airport List’
and choosing from the drop down box. If the code is held in the database it
will be transferred to the log details panel.
If no code is known it is possible to create one. Select ‘Add/Del Location’.
The current list of locations is listed for information. Select ‘.Add Location’
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from the list. Enter a unique code and a location name. This will be stored in
the database. The list of additional locations can be accessed via ‘Other
Locations’ and selecting one will add the code to the log panel. An entry may
be deleted using the ‘.Delete Location’ option.
Notes may be added to the log by populating the ‘Notes’ box. They may be
later viewed via the ‘Show Logged’ panel. Entries with notes are marked with
a chevron in the right hand column.
Once all boxes are populated, clicking ‘Log It’ places the record into the
relevant ‘seen’ file (if needed) and also the main log file.
Pending
Should the searched registration not be found there is an option to save the
details to a ‘Pending’ file. Enter basic details into the panel.
The ‘Pending’ entries may be viewed, edited or added to by selecting the
‘Pending’ button. Selecting ‘Process Pendings’ will check the databases for
recently added details and if found, will log the details in the main databases.
Autolog
The ‘Autolog’ option allows
logging of multiple entries by
entering a registration into the
text box. If it is found the
details will be populated and
the aircraft is listed in the main
panel.
In case of multiple records for
one registration a list will
appear for selecting the
required aircraft.
Previous identities can be
included in the search by
ticking the box, although this
slows the process down.
Store the selection using the
‘Log It’ button and the next
registration can then be
entered.
Clear the aircraft text using the
‘Clear’ button. The Location
text is not affected
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MultiLog
It is possible to bulk log a list of registrations via this option.
Populating the Registration List
There are three methods of populating the registration list:
•
Copy a list of registrations onto the Windows clipboard (ctrl+c or
right click & copy) and place it into the list by selecting the ‘Paste’
button. The text should consist of one registration per line.
•
Select ‘Add Regs’ and enter registrations one by one. A blank entry
ends the process. Entries may be appended to a pasted list by
using this option.
•
Bulk Load
The list may be saved to a text file via ‘Save List’.
Clear the list via the ‘Clear’ button
Delete an individual entry by selecting it and clicking ‘Delete Entry’
Bulk Load
The grid may be bulk loaded with aircraft based at a location, an individual
type or an operator. After being selected, a list of relevant options appears.
Select from that list and select ‘Load Data’ to populate the grid.
For Locations, a database selection will be available. ‘Needed Only’ will list
only those where ‘Frames/Registrations’ are required.
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List Selection
Clicking in the left column will ‘select’ an entry. All may be selected or
deselected by clicking the ‘v’ on the top line. Selected lines may be deleted or
printed to a text file via the buttons beneath the grid.
Processing the List
Select ‘Frame’ or ‘Registration’ mode (this will be set from the mode in the
main program). There are option boxes to include Mil and GA in the
searches, plus ‘Include PI in search’, although these slow the process.
Select the date in the right hand panel and press ‘Process List’. The details of
each aircraft will be displayed in the central grid with an indication of whether
if is required as a ‘Frame’, ‘Scrape’ or ‘Not Needed’ (depending on the mode
selected).
If more than one aircraft is found with a particular registration a choice box will
appear. Select the correct entry or skip (which will add the reg to the ‘Not
Found’ list.
If a registration/frame combination is currently logged as first seen on a later
date there will be an option to replace the current date with the earlier one and
the grid marked ‘Earlier Date’.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Aircraft not found are added to the ‘Not Found’ list.
Grid details may be edited by selecting the cell.
An entry in the list can be deleted by selecting it and clicking ‘Delete’.
Columns may be sorted by selecting the header
Operator text may be edited or replaced by selecting the relevant cell.
A list of stored operators for that frame is displayed. Select from it to
replace the current operator or select ‘Add Operator’ to input text
Once an operator has been replaced an option button allows for bulk
replacement of the old operator with the new one.
Selected Dates or Locations can be retained via the check boxes
‘Same Day Dupe Check’ will check each entry to ensure it has not
already been logged on the selected date and if so will provide a
warning.
Logging the List
Add a location code and date
Select between logging ‘All’, ‘Needed’ or ‘Selected only’. Needed Only
will just log those marked as ‘Frame’ or ‘Regn’, Selected’ logs only
those selected in the left hand grid column,
Click ‘Log Them’ to log the relevant entries
There is a check box to retain the current date
Subject to the options selected in the main program, details are edited
in a Basestation.sqb if the option is ticked.
Clicking in the ‘Not Found’ box gives an option to save details to the ‘Pending’
file for subsequent processing.
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There are options to retain the currently entered Date and Location for
subsequent use.
Show Logged
This option displays a panel of all main log entries for the currently selected
aircraft. The panel toggles on and off. Clicking the location provides a
decode if known. Clicking the registration highlights it on the registration
history panel. The operator can be expanded using the lower ‘<’ button.
A ‘>’ in the ‘N’ column indicates that additional notes have been added to a
particular entry. Clicking in the ‘N’ column displays these notes if there are
any entered. Otherwise, they may be added or edited and later stored using
the ‘Update Notes’ button.
Entries may be deleted via the ‘Delete Log Entry’ option. To allow for
individual deleting, this will NOT delete records in the ‘type_log’ database (for
this use Tools > Delete)
Menu Line
File
Change Default DB
The default database is the one displayed at program start. This gives the
option to change it by entering a database code as listed.
Import/Export Databases
Allows for the transfer of the user databases to the relevant directories to and
from a USB stick. Select the drive letter and the files to transfer. The remote
device directory must be the root.
A copy of the files on the current device is an option.
Exit
Ends the program
Options
Automatic Back Up
With this option selected, during the ‘Updates > Import Exec Logs’ process,
the Log, Type, MyDB and Photo databases are copied to the
‘C:\planebase\pb backup files’ folder and dated.
Colours
The background and text colours for the main areas of the display (form,
panels, lists and text boxes) can be set using this option. Click the small
14
boxes to select new colours. The format of the text boxes can also be
changed via the drop down boxes.
Confirm Exit
Requires a confirmation to exit the program..
Dash Auto Insert
This option toggles the automatic insertion of a dash ‘-‘ into entered
registrations.
Fill Blanks
Selecting this option fills blanks in the grid display with dashes (----).
Grid Lines
Toggles the list grid lines OFF or ON. The Default is ON.
IATA Airport Codes
Where there is an option, the IATA airport codes will be displayed, rather than
the ICAO.
Include Mil/GA in searches
Large databases slow down searches, so this option allows them to be
excluded.
Info Beep
There will be an alert Beep with all error and information messages and
prompts. Additionally, an alert beep will sound when a process completes,
with this option selected.
Keyboard
This option allows for the displaying of a key board for mouse use when an
input is required in the input panel. A ‘#’ button on the panel toggles the
keyboard on or off. The selection is retained.
List Bold
Toggles the list font bold ON or OFF. Default is OFF.
List Font Size
This enables a small, normal or large list font to be selected. Smaller or
larger fonts may affect the amount of text visible in individual list boxes.
Photolog Enabled
Enables the ‘Photolog’ photo logging feature. When enabled, an ‘Add Photo’
button will be visible next to the ‘Log It’ button. If a photo is stored for an
15
individual aircraft, when it is searched or selected a lower panel displays with
an option to select the url to display the photo. Exit the panel by clicking the
top line of text.
SQB Options
Options for updating a Basestation.sqb when logging:
- Add seen details adds reg/date/location to the Usernotes field
- Mark/Un-Mark Interested removes interested marks during logging or adds
interested marks when printing new data to the sqb.
- Subject to the ‘Overwrite User Tag’ selection, ‘Mark User Tag Seen’ puts
‘Seen’ into the usertag field during logging.
USAF Quicksearch
When selected, this option permits ‘current reg’ searches for USAF serials by
entering the ‘last 5’ digits only. All results found will be displayed, i.e entering
‘50125’ will show details for ‘75-0125’ and ’55-0125’ etc.
The option should be disabled when searching for non-USAF five number
strings, i.e Swedish ‘86001’ as this would not be found.
Wide Locations
This widens the location box for the ‘Seen History’ for use where full location
names are used rather than codes.
Registration Mode
To allow for differing requirements, Single or Multiple registration sightings are
available. Selecting 'Registration Mode' will display all sightings of the chosen
frame, plus selecting the individual registration displays the date/where seen
in the lower boxes. If there is only one sighting, the details are automatically
displayed. If the selected registration is not current it will be highlighted in the
relevant Previous ID’s box.
Disabling the ‘Registration Mode’ option displays just the one set of
seen/when/where details for the frame. This ‘Frame’ mode also affects the
way Logs are printed etc.
Tools
Compact Databases
When data is imported into the databases their size increases and slows the
operation of the program. Use this option to compact the databases to
maintain the speed of the program.
Back Up ‘Log Databases’
This option copies the current ‘full_log’, ‘type_log’, ‘Mydb’, ‘Photo’ and ‘locn’
databases into the ‘Planebase’ backup folder with a date suffix.
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Back Up Location (Secondary)
A second back-up location may be specified. Locate the folder via this option
and during the exec/airl log import process a dated copy will be made to this
folder, in addition to the ‘planebase/back up files’ folder. If the ‘delete’ option
is selected, files older than one month will NOT be deleted from this new
folder.
Delete ‘Type Log’ Entry
This option allows deletion of an entry from the type_log. Select the aircraft
(via the ‘Seen History’ box if relevant) and select this option and confirm. To
delete a ‘Full_log’ entry use the ‘Show Logged’ panel. Deleting can also be
performed via ‘EditLogs’ (below)
Flightlog
This option allows a log of flights taken to be kept. A new panel opens:
Flights already in the database are displayed. More details may be viewed by
selecting from the grid. A flight may be edited by selecting ‘Edit Flight’ while it
is displayed in the lower panel. Select ‘Store Flight’ once editing is complete.
A new flight may be added by selecting ‘Add Flight’. Fill the details and select
‘Store Flight’ once complete.
After entering text into the ‘Registration’ box a PlanebaseNG search will occur
for that registration. If more than one instance is found a list will appear for
selecting the required aircraft. The type, C/N and operator boxes will be
populated. Select from the operator drop down or overtype if required. The
search excludes Military and GA unless those boxes are ticked.
•
•
•
Select a column header to sort the grid by that column.
To delete an entry, select from the grid and click ‘Delete’.
‘Clear’ will abort any process and empty the lower panel of text
17
If elapsed times are entered in format HH:MM a total can be displayed by
selecting ‘Total Hrs’.
Function Key List
Displays a List of current function key short cuts:
F2
F3
F4
F5
F6
F7
F8
History ID
Current ID
Prefix Search
Text Search
Log Search
Previous Record
Next Record
Mail Set Up
Enter details for the required
mail account. If possible, port
25 and no security should be
used., otherwise the mail
password will need to be
entered each time the mail
option is selected.
Port 465 is usually used with
the SSL security option.
Having the same source and
destination addresses may be
an issue with some ISP’s
Once the details are entered and stored a test mail may be sent.
* This setup is separate from that in Pblink and different settings may be used
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Multi Type Filters
This option allows the creation of a new multi type filter. A copy of
‘PB_mydb.mdb’ should be present in the Planebase directory. A list of
current filters is displayed. Selecting one will display its contents. To delete
a filter select ‘Delete Filter’.
To add a new filter select ‘New Filter’. Each filter can only contain types from
a particular database. Select a db from the drop down box and the list will be
populated with available types.
Select up to 15 types and they are displayed in the right side box. Enter a
name for the filter and select ‘create filter’. The filter will be added to the list,
prefixed by ‘_’.
Exit to the main screen, select ‘Type’ and the filters will be located below the
‘.all’ filters in the list.
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Needs Lists (create/edit)
This option allows for the creation of lists that enable searching of the
databases for ‘needed aircraft’ and the creation of printable lists (Searching is
done via the ‘search > needs lists’ option). There are three types of lists :
Airport Needs Lists
This option gives the ability to create a list of airports in ICAO or full
name format. When run in ‘search’ mode a list of ‘needed’ aircraft
based at those airports is created.
Operator Needs Lists
This option gives the ability to create a list of operators in ICAO, IATA
or full name format. When run in ‘search’ mode a list of ‘needed’
aircraft for those operators is created.
Operator + Type Needs Lists
This option gives the ability to create a list of operators and their particular
types in ICAO, IATA or full name format. When run in ‘search’ mode a list of
‘needed’ aircraft for those operators is created.
Selecting 'tools > Needs List (create/edit)' brings up a panel for
creating, editing or deleting needs lists.
select between 'Operator + Type', 'Operator' or 'Airport'.
The Currently stored files will be listed (if any). Selecting one displays a
list of its contents.
To Delete a list select it then click 'Delete List' and confirm.
To Edit a list select it and click 'Edit List'. The text file will open in
'notepad' for editing and saving.
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Create New List
select between 'Operator + Type', 'Operator' or 'Airport'
Manual Lists
There is a choice between manual and auto compilation. Choosing
‘Manual’ then selecting ‘Create New List’ will ask for a file name then open a
text file in Notepad. Instructions for text format are on the first line of the file
and can remain. ‘Operator’ can be ICAO, IATA or full name format, Airport
can be ICAO or full name format. Operator and type should be separated
by a dash, i.e ‘BAW-B.777’, ‘BA-B.777’ or ‘British Airways-B.777’. Save the
file when complete.
Auto Lists
Selecting 'Auto' provides a list of available Airports or Operators. A 'Sort list'
box gives an option to retain the order in which you select text or have it
sorted into alphabetical order
click 'Create New List'.
Airport Needs
A list of airports is populated. Select those required and they will be
transferred to the right side box. Depending on the 'sort' selection they
will be placed in order or not.
Operator Needs
Select from a list of available operator types from the drop down box.
The second box will be populated with available operators. Selecting
from this list moves the text into the right side box.
Operator + Type
Select a list of required operators from the drop down box, 'Airlines', ‘Biz
Jets’ or 'Military'. The second box will be populated with available
operators. Selecting from this list populates the third box with a list of
types operated by that operator. Selecting from this list moves the info
to the right side box in the required format..
Create File
When the selection is complete select 'create file'. There is a prompt for
a file name which should be entered with no suffix (which will be added
automatically). The file list will be updated with the new file.
Photolog
This provides a method of managing your photographs. On first opening the
screen will load your currently stored photos. Subject to the number, this may
take a little while. A count is displayed.
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If the entry is linked to a URL a ‘+’ shows in the left column. Click it to view
the photo. Select the ‘<’ button to view other ‘hidden’ columns.
Editing
Select a grid cell to edit the text (except ‘P’ and ‘X’ columns). To delete an
entry select the ‘X’ column (far right).
Searching
Search Reg – Enter a single registration
Prefix - A registration prefix can be searched, length optional
Type - Enter the first characters, i.e ‘A3’ will display all Airbuses, ‘A32’
will display A320 and A321 etc
All – All entries are listed via this button
Locations – select from the list
Operators – Select from the list
Add Photo
A panel is displayed. Select whether it is necessary to include the Mil/GA
databases as this slows the search. Enter the registration and tab out of the
box. The registration will be searched and if found details will be added. If
multiple entries are found a selection box is displayed.
Complete the other fields as required. Select the ‘URL’ button and navigate to
the photo or enter it manually. Select ‘Store’ to add the photo to the database
or ‘Clear’ to exit the panel.
Options - There are options to back up the database and turn off alerts.
Remove Seen History Details
Seen History details are added during the log import. Should an entry
have been deleted from other databases, the ‘Seen History’ display can be
emptied via this option.
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EditLogs
This provides a method of viewing and editing the contents of your logs.
PlanebaseNG consists of two separate databases. The ‘Full_log’ contains all
logged entries whether needed or not. The other ‘type_log’ databases contain
only those aircraft ‘needed’. This facility can view and edit both but they must
be done individually, i.e an aircraft deleted from the ‘Full_log’ must also be
deleted from the ‘type’ log for it to display correctly in PlanebaseNG.
Populating the grid
Selections MUST be made from the left hand panel :
Select the required database
Select a date or ‘ALL’ to show all dates
Select a location or ‘ALL’ (All dates and All locations is not available)
Select an aircraft type or ‘ALL’ from the populated drop down list
Select ‘Display’ and the log contents are displayed.
To search a Date Range, tick the box and select an end date
Columns can be sorted by selecting the header
The displayed list can be printed to a text file by selecting ‘Print’
Statistics
While in ‘full_log’, statistics regarding the number of frames or registrations
needed during the selected period are displayed lower left. Fewer
statistics are displayed when in other tables.
To set this up, an ‘Actions > Refresh First Seen Details’ should be
performed to add the frame/reg details to the database.
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Grid Display
The display consists of the contents of the selected database. These may
not include certain fields such as an aircraft type. The database code for
each entry is displayed. Should logs have been transferred over but the
entry not reconciled the ‘Rx’ column will display an ‘n’. In ‘full_log’ mode,
the ‘Nd’ field will display an ‘F’ for frame or ‘R’ for registration.
Editing Entries
Select the relevant entry from the grid. The details will display in the lower
boxes. They may then be edited, then the changes stored by selecting
‘Update’.
The displayed entry may be deleted from the selected log by choosing
‘Delete’.
** Bear in mind that any edits/deletions made in the Full_log will either
need to be repeated in the individual Type_log table or the type tables
rebuilt to reflect the changes in the program.
Individual Search
An individual Registration / Serial can be searched via the text box once a
database has been selected and all occurrences of it in the selected
database will be displayed..
Bulk Processes Menu
•
The date of all displayed entries can be replaced by using the ‘Bulk
Replace Date’ option.
•
The Location of all displayed entries can be replaced by using the
‘Bulk Replace Location’ option.
•
A ‘Bulk Delete’ can be performed using the parameters set. This will
delete all entries at a selected location on a selected date etc. The
option will not run if any selection is ‘ALL’.
Actions menu
Compare Logs
All details held in the Type_log database should have a corresponding
entry in the Full_log database. However, when the information has been
transferred over from certain other databases, this is often not the case.
This option compares the information held in the databases and produces
a report of any records without a corresponding entry in the Full_log
database. As well as being due to missing entries, this may be due to
conflicting index numbers.
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Fill Types/ c/n /Series
These populate the full_log with the selected details. It is not required
for the operation of the program and increases the size of the database.
Filling ‘Types’ however, will allow them to be viewed and filtered in the
EditLogs grid.
Rebuild Type Tables
This option will rebuild the type tables with the information from the
full_log.
Any previous type_logs will be overwritten so it is essential that a log
comparison has been performed and any missing entries have been
added to the Full_log, plus a ‘Refresh First Seen Details’ performed.
To view these changes in the main screen, ‘Import Logs’ should be
performed.
Reconcile Log and Database
This option compares the details held in the Full_log with the Planebase
aircraft databases and produces a report of any anomalies. These may
be due to registration conflicts, different index numbers or extraneous/
missing characters.
Refresh First Seen Details
This option will rearrange the ‘first seen’ details into date order in the
Full_log. Once this has been run, a ‘Rebuild Type Tables’ should be run
to transfer the new details into the type logs.
Update Types
The stored list of aircraft types may be updated using this option.
Search
Amarg List
This option creates a listing of aircraft held at Amarg in type and serial order
Boeing Customer Codes
Enter a code as two or three digits, ie '36' for all British Airways aircraft or
'236' for all series 200 aircraft. Subject to the Show Aircraft and Status
options, results are displayed in type, series and c/no order and are printable.
Base Country
Enter a country prefix to list aircraft based in that country
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Code
Enter a tail code to list aircraft carrying that code
Continent
Aircraft registered in a specified continent can be listed in registration order.
Select the required option from the drop down box. The results are subject to
the Database, Show Aircraft and Status options.
Due to the large numbers involved a count may be displayed while the list is
being populated. This option is not available in the Military database
Country
Enter a registration prefix for the required country to list aircraft registered in
that country. Use PP for all Brazil, XA for all Mexico etc.
Country Base List
Enter a registration prefix for the required country to create a text or Excel list
of locations and registrations of aircraft based at those locations in that
country, subject to the panel options. An asterisk denotes a required frame,
an apostrophe denotes a registration only.
Country Opr List
Enter a registration prefix for the required country to create a text or Excel list
of operators and registrations of aircraft operated by them, subject to the
panel options. An asterisk denotes a required frame, an apostrophe denotes
a registration only.
Fixed Callsign
A single fixed callsign can be searched and if found, details of the aircraft are
shown on the main display. This option is only available within the Biz Jets
database.
Full Database
ONE full database can be listed, sorted by the selected options. Due to the
size of the databases, this operation can take some time.
Hex Code (Single)
Enter a Hex code, this option searches all available databases and displays
the resulting aircraft in the main panel and the list panel.
Hex Code (Country)
Search by HEX prefix or country registration prefix. The option panel provides
search options.
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History Prefix
Displays all current & previously registered aircraft in the CURRENT database
with a certain prefix, so use this, for example, to see all biz jets that have been
registered LX- and their fates. The default fate shown is the 'current' reg. If
you want to display the subsequent reg instead, tick the box in the input
panel.
A frame that has had the same registration more than once will display for
each occurrence.
Information Field
The information field can be searched for any text string entered, subject to
the databases selected.
Needs Lists Search
Needs lists that have been created via the ‘Tools > Need Lists Edit’ option are
searched via this option. Choose the type of list from the drop down box. The
lower list is populated with available lists.
For ‘Airports’ and ‘Operators’ selecting from this list will bring up the option
panel to select databases to include in the search.
‘Operator + Type’ will bring up two options. If selected, ‘Abbreviated List’
displays the results in multiple columns instead of a single column. ‘Include
‘not needed info’ displays all aircraft for a particular operator whether seen or
not. A needed indicator is included.
The ‘Abbreviated list’ option produces a ‘horizontal’ list, whereas the default is
vertical.
Include the fleet number in the list by checking the box
A drop down box gives an option to print to text or to Word. Also an option to
include ‘on order’ aircraft is included. The resulting printout shows a ‘~’
against these.
Run the search by selecting from the file list. The results are displayed in the
data grid and also in text or Word format.
Registered Month
This will display aircraft registered in the selected month in the selected
database(s). Military and Russian aircraft are excluded.
Reserved List
A list of current reservations is produced from the chosen database.
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Series
Brings up the option box to enter an aircraft type. This is a wildcard option
which will display all types containing that text, i.e ‘200’ brings up ‘-200’, 2000’ etc.
Suffix
As for the prefix option but lists instances of the registration suffix, subject to
the Database, Show Aircraft and Status options.
Total Seen
Current DB - The total number of seen frames in the current database will be
displayed alongside total registrations logged in that database
Location – enter an airport code and a total of those logged as needed at that
location will be displayed
Type Count
After selecting this option, any choice from the Type lists will display a count
of franes seen for that type. The option should be deselected to resume
normal type searches and is not stored.
Print Options
The contents of the main grid can be printed in several formats which are
selected using the ‘Destination’ drop down box:
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Text File - Print to a text file named 'c:\Planebase\Planebaseprint.txt'
which will display on the screen once printed.
Word Document – Prints to ‘MS Word’ if installed
CSV (Excel) - prints major fields. The printed details will open in an
MS Excel spreadsheet for saving. An additional hex code option is
offered when this is selected but a ‘select fields’ option is not.
Printer – prints direct to printer in a basic format
Excel Report – prints an extended range of fields to Excel
E-Mail – subject to the stored e-mail settings, the current contents of
the grid will be sent by e-mail
SQB Database - Basic details such as Reg, Type, C/n, ICAO codes
and operator are written to a selected Basestation.sqb file for entries in
the grid that have a HEX code listed in the PlanebaseNG databases.
Reg and ICAO type only will be written by selecting the box.
Other than printing to the SQB database, it is possible to print symbols to
indicate whether the aircraft has been seen as a frame or registration. These
default to ‘>’ and ‘-‘ but can be changed by entering the required symbol in the
appropriate box. These symbols will be remembered.
* seen symbols sent to an e-mail are not an option due to a confliction in
formats.
Whilst printing multiple columns the aircraft type may be abbreviated for layout
purposes by checking the box (default is ‘ON’)
Whilst printing a ‘Log’ it is possible to locate the symbols before or after the
registration. The default ‘after’ setting is null for a frame and an asterisk for a
reg. Logs default to printing on a single line. When in ‘Frame’ mode no
indicators will be printed.
Single Column
This option will print details of the aircraft displayed in the main list on one line
per aircraft, displaying reg, type, c/n and operator.
Multiple Columns
This option will print details of the aircraft displayed in the main list in multiple
columns on an A4 sheet.
Choose from the field options in the drop down box. Two fields will print in
four columns, three will print three and four will print in two columns.
The font may be chosen via the button, however formatting problems may
occur with some selections.
Downloads
Brings up the downloads panel (pictured under ‘Set Up’ at the start of the
document) where the following options are available:
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Download Databases
The latest populated Executive, Airliners, Military and GenAv databases
are downloaded by selecting from the list. Unzip and double click the
resulting …..exe file.
Confirm extract, do not change the path. The file will be unzipped and
relocated into the ‘c:\planebase’ folder.
The files may be downloaded individually or in bulk via the ‘All Databases’
option.
Import Logs
This option is for the import of details held in the log databases. This must
be run each time an updated database is downloaded to view the logged
details and speed the consequent operation of the program.
The user databases will be backed up and compacted as part of the ‘Exec’
import.
Other Files
A selection of other files available for download are listed. Unzip and run
the files as described above.
Clear
This option will clear the current details and displayed lists.
Help
File Check
Checks that the folder and databases required for the program are present
and reports any omissions. Missing folders will be created. A display of
database dates is included.
Other
Other options are supplied that should only be selected on advice from the
PlanebaseNG team.
Version/Disclaimer
Displays the current version number and date.
ML 3rd April 2015
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