Basic Procedures
Once you have calculated the totals, received the payment, and posted it to the computer, you are ready to print the final invoice. This is accomplished by using the Print button on the Workorder Development menu. Be sure your printer is on line, and the paper is ready. The Auto Shop Writer will check the printer, and if it is not found, will give you an error message. While we don't expect it to be on a coffee break, or out shopping, printers occasionally become disconnected or someone presses the "online" switch, turning it off. You will be able to correct the error condition before printing.
Invoices may take multiple pages. The Auto Shop Writer is set to handle such an occurrence, and will continue printing the information appropriately. The Auto Shop Writer can use preprinted forms which enhance the appearance of the final document. Formats are readily available by calling MasterLink Software for further information. Be sure you have performed the invoice print setup.
Printout Options Window
When you select the 
button, the computer will first ask you to select the type of printout you wish. You may select from one of the following options:
• Estimate - This is a customer's copy of the estimated cost of the services you intend to provide.
• Worksheet - This is for a technician to see the work to be performed, the parts to be used, and other appropriate notes.
• Counter Sale - This is to be used for over the counter sale of parts only.
• Invoice - This is the client's final bill for a complete service.
Printer Selection Options Window
You have numerous options when selecting the type of printout, and how it is to be processed. They are displayed in a popup window, and should be handled as follows:
• Default / Alternate Printer - The Default printer radio button is highlighted, and if you leave that option, your output will go to the printer which has been set up in windows as the default for your machine. If you wish to send a fax, direct the output to a different printer, or change the number of copies, select the Alternate Printer option.
• View - Select this button if you wish to preview the printout on screen first,or to send an email. You can print from the preview display.
• Print - Select this button to immediately send the information to the printer
• Cancel - Select this button to abort the printout process immediately.
Emailing a Printout
Select the View option, and then the 
icon on the preview screen. You will then fill in the subject line and text of the message to which the prinout will be attached. The email will include all pages in the preview selection, not just the one shown on the screen. For this to work correctly, you must first setup the email system.
Faxing a Printout
You may send any printout to a FAX rather than a printer. First, you must have FAX software installed in your computer. When given the Printer Selection Options window, select the Alternate Printer option. Then you will be shown the print setup window. You can select the FAX device from the list of installed printers. Your computer will then activate the FAX software and ask for the number, and any other information you wish to provide. Windows will then take over sending the data to the FAX modem rather than the printer.
If your FAX does not go through, it will be saved in the FAX software and can be resent through that programs control panel.
Printing Multiple Copies
You can print multiple copies of any document by selecting the Alternate Printer option. Windows will then provide the Printer selection window. Select the total number of copies you wish to print and the system will handle your task.
Special Graphics
Check out how you can enhance the appearance of your printouts by reading "Special Invoice Graphics"