Interface

Improved interface

In the new version Banana Accounting Plus, you will find an updated interface, with very intuitive and functional menus, so you can access the commands much more quickly.
We advise you to switch now to Banana Accounting Plus and take advantage of the many new features.

When a new file is being created or an existing one is opened, the software presents a structure that is characterized by the following elements

The menubar

The menu bar contains commands grouped by menu.
The menu bar consists of:

  • General menus: File, Edit, Data, Format, Tools, Apps, Windows, Help
  • Menu's specific to the type of file used. The commands are different depending on the application used.
    • Accounting applications (Cash book, Income & Expenses, Double-Entry Accounting):
      Account1 and Account2 menus

Menubar accounting

  • Utility Applications (Time Sheet, Address Book, Library, Fixed Assets register)
    Menu Utilities1 and possibly Utilities2

Menubar_utilities

Attention: in the Mac operating system, the Banana menu bar is located on the top of the screen, at the rightside of the apple logo:


 

The toolbar

The toolbar contains icons that allow you to access the most used commands and dialogs.
If you go over the icon with your mouse a command description will be displayed.


 

Text input area

Text are entered directly in the cell. The entered text is also shown in the text input area, right below the toolbar.

Editing a text

  • double click on the cell
  • press on the F2 key
  • pres the spacebar key (you will be able to edit an empty cell)

Short-cut keys for editing

  • If you press "." on a Date column, the software will enter today's date
  • If you press "." on a Hour column, the software will enter the current time (for example in a Time sheet management file)
  • when the Smart Fill option is activated, you select your choice with the combination Ctrl + arrow down keys - the software will accept your choice and move to the following cell.

Other very useful short-cut key are:

  • F4 key (or Cmd+4 on Apple computers) - copies data from the cell above
  • F6 key (or Cmd+6 on Apple computers) - different features depending on the cell you are in. See below.

You can always view the short-cut keys list from the Help menu - Keyboard shortcuts command.

Suggestions and auto-complete function

If the Smart fill (Autocomplete) option is activated (Program Options command from the Tools menu), a drop-down menu will be shown with all the possible text choices: you can then select the chosen text in different ways:

  • press the Enter key - the program will accept your choice and move to the following cell on the right or below (depending on your settings)
  • press the Tab key - the program will accept your choice and move to the following cell on the right
  • press the Shift + Tab keys - the program will accept your choice and move to the following cell on the left
  • or the F6 key (or Cmd+6) - the program will accept your choice and execute the associate command (see below)

The program will suggest some choices (similar transactions, accounts or VAT codes) based on the entered text.
You must scroll with the arrow down key and select the appropriate choice.

The program will select for you:

  • Transactions starting with the same text (if any)
  • Elements containing the entered text anywhere. For example the account 1000 cash will be shown by the program as soon as you type 10 or just "cash".


Integrated calculator

If you need to execute a calculation, you can just position yourself in any non protected Amount cell and enter your calculation: as soon as you press the Enter key the program will execute the calculation showing the result. This is a practical and time saving tool if for example you need to enter in the program only some amounts of a paper document or if you need to enter a percentage.

This feature is available in all tables and in all Amount columns.

Integrated calculator

Execute command (F6 key)

Some columns are associated with certain actions that can be executed with the Execute command (from the Edit menu) or relative touch key (F6 or Cmd +F6 for Apple computers) as indicated in the information window.
Some examples:

  • Doc column: recovery of recurring rows or progressive number
  • Description column: recovery of similar row data

The tables

Each accounting file has various tables. Some of them are main tables and others are optional. Tables vary depending on the chosen accounting type.

In case of tables generated by the user, such as an Account card, in case of adding/modifying data, just click on the appropriate icon to update the table with the new data.

update_table

Print everything you see on the screen

In addition to the various reports available, Banana Accounting allows you to print everything you see on the screen, in any table.
For more information visit the Print/Preview page.

The views

The views are ways of showing the accounting data with specific columns. For each table there are different views and they are very useful when you want to show your data in different ways, without altering your basic settings.
Views are located right below the tables and can be personalized using the Tables setup command from the Data menu. You can also create new ones.

 

The columns

Columns are the table vertical elements. Each table has specific columns with specific headers. The display, size, description, format, width, style, alignment can be edited thorough the Columns setup command from the Data menu.

Some columns contain data entered by the user, and some others can only be used by the program and cannot be edited by the user (for example the account cards columns).

Users can add new columns in order to include additional information (always with the Columns setup command from the Data menu), but the data entered will not be processed by the program.

A group of specific columns composes a view that displays only specific data.


 

The information window

This is a window located in the lower part of the screen, where the program displays useful information related to the active table and cell. Error messages are shown in red.

The Message dialog window

When an error occurs, the program displays the error in the Message window, indicating in which row of which table the error is located. It also shows a description of the error.

  • By clicking on the Help button you will be addressed of the online page where the error is explained, along with possible solutions.
  • All error messages reported by the program are saved in the Error Message window.

The Error Messages window

The Messages windows contains a list of the errors found by the program.
In order to read the messages click on the Messages tab.

  • From the Messages window, by double clicking on the error message, you will be taken to the row that generated the error.
  • If you click on the help symbol next to the error messageyou will be taken to our online documentation page where the error is explained, along with possible solutions

Table help

From version 9.0.4 of Banana Accounting 9, a help button has also been introduced in each table, on the top-right corner.
By clicking on the help button you will be automatically addressed to our online documentation page where that specific table is described.

Charts window

Graphs are integrated in the program: you can now generate graphs directly in Banana accounting. By selecting an account or group, it is possible to display a chart in the charts window at the bottom. The graph will allow you to instantly visualise the evolution of your situation, and even allow a comparison between your forecast and your actual figures.

Status bar

Status bar is located at the very bottom of the Banana Accounting window and contains the following information:

  • row number of the selected cell
  • rows in the table
  • if you select more than one cell (amounts or time)
    • Calculator: the software counts the amount of selected cells (if they contain numbers)
    • Value sum
  • Zoom - you can change the window zoom from here

 Date and numbers format by per default

Once the program is installed, it automatically uses as default your operating system settings.

If you wish to change your operating system settings, you should go in your Control Panel (Windows) or your System Preferences (Mac).

Here is the step by step process on Windows 8 and Windows 10:

  • from the Start menu, go to the Control Panel
  • click on International options and then on Change date, time or numbers format
  • a dialog window will appear where you can change your data format (in the Format tab)
  • in order to change your numbers or currency format, from the same window you can click on the Additional settings button and then on the Numbers or currency tab.

Here is the step by step process on Mac OS X 10.9.5:

  • from the Apple logo (on the top left of your screen) click on System Preferences
  • from the dialog window that appears choose the Date and time icon
  • a new window will appear where you can choose Open language and zone...
  • a new window will appear where you can click on the Advanced button
  • finally a new window will appear where you can change the numbers format (General tab), date or time format (Date and Time tabs)


Format and numbers in Banana Accounting

 

Cells

Copy, Cut and Paste

It is possible to copy/paste cells, rows or selected text just as it is possible to do with any normal Windows program:

  • Select the line or the area of data to be copied
  • In the Edit menu, select the Copy or Cut command
  • Move to the row or the area where the information should be copied
  • From the Edit menu, select Paste

The user can also copy/paste by using the following icons  or press Ctrl+C to copy, Ctrl+X to cut and Ctrl+V to paste.
There are also commands such as Copy rows, Delete rows and Paste rows: in this case they refer to a full row or rows and not to a cell selection. For this purpose the commands Copy, Cut and Paste should not be used.

Entering a text

In order to enter a text position yourself in the cell you wish to write in. With a double click on the cell a drop down menu will appear with all the text previously entered; as you start writing the program automatically suggest similar text previously entered; select the appropriate text and:

  • press Enter - in order to automatically enter the selected text
  • press the F6 key - in order to automatically enter the selected text + all other row data (debit account, credit account, amount, ...)

Editing a text - Smart Fill

From the version 7 of Banana Accounting it is possible to edit the text directly in the cell; just double-click in the appropriate cell (or press the F2 key) and enter the new text. Also when editing the texts, the Smart fill and autocomplete texts feature suggests earlier entered texts.

It is also possible to edit a text selecting the cell and entering the new text in the text input area, under the toolbar. On the left side of this area, two icons will appear to undo or accept the entered text.

Wrap text

When the text for a row is very long, the Calculate row height command from the Format menu allows the user to view it completely, adapting the height of the row.

To adapt the height of the row to the text, the user should:

  • choose the Columns setup command from the Data menu;
  • select the appropriate field name;
  • activate the option Wrap text in the Display tab;
  • recall the Calculate row height command from the Format menu each time it is necessary. 

The Calculate all row heights command is equal to the one described above, with the difference that it operates on all rows of the table. 

Entering an account number

Position yourself in the Debit or Credit account column and start entering the account number or account description; the program will suggest you all the accounts with a similar number or description. Choose the appropriate one with the Down arrow key or Up arrow and press Enter.

Attention: to deactivate last year's smart fill, you must deactivate the Smart fill with transactions from previous year option from the File and accounting properties command (Options tab - File menu).

 

File Menu

When using Banana Accounting, each accounting management is on a different file.
Banana Accounting files are compatible with versions from all operating systems and with synchronization systems (Dropbox, ICloud, ...)

New...

This command opens the window to create a new file. All the available templates are accessed from the same window. We recommend starting from an existing template and personalizing it with your data. For more information, see the Create a new file page

Open...

This command allows you to open a previously created Banana Accounting file. For more information, visit the Open, save, copy and backup page.

Close / Close all

These commands allow you to close the active file or all open files of Banana Accounting.

File and accounting properties

This command accesses the basic data of the accounting file. For more information visit the File properties page.

Save / Save As / Save All

To save your accounting files. For more information see the Save page.

Create PDF dossier...

Create a single PDF file where you can customize what you want to include. All accounting data can be included.
For more information, visit the Create PDF dossier page.

Export file

It is possible to export the entire accounting file or only certain parts in Html, Excel, Xml, JCsv, Json
For more information, see the Export page.

Page setup...

Allows you to define printing properties. For more information see the Page setup page.

Setup a Logo ...

To insert a logo into your prints. For more information, visit the Setup a Logo page.

Print ...

To start printing. For more information, visit the Printouts/preview page.

Create PDF ...

To print in PDF format what you see on the screen.

Print Preview

To check how your printout will look like.

Recent files / Favorite files

Banana Accounting automatically shows, when the program is opened, a list of recently used files.
It is also possible to draw up a list of favorite files.
For more information visit the  Recent / Favorite files page.
 

Create a new file

To create a new File, go to the File menu and click the New command

    The appearing window will allow you the possibility to create a new file in three different ways:

    1. Using an existing Template
    2. Copy data from an existing File
    3. Use a New empty File

    Start with one of our templates adapted to your business

    This will generate a new File based on one of the existing templates.

    • File Menu, New command
    • Select your country
    • Select your language
    • Select your category
    • Select your Accounting template
    • From the dropdown list of templates that will display in the dialog box, select the template that most closely matches your needs.
      Clicking on the file will automatically open it and can then be saved with the name you wish. 

    All the files with the VAT option have the VAT codes table adjusted to the new rates.
    The Chart of Accounts can be adapted to your requirements (change of account description, insert or delete groups, sub-groups, etc.)

    You can search for a template by entering a keyword in the search box.

    Save the file with a name

    Once you have opened the template with Banana you need to use the Save as command from the File menu

    • Chose the destination folder
      It might be useful to create a separate folder for each year, so you are able to store documents, other than the accounting file that are related to that year.
    • Chose a file name containing the company name and the accounting year, for example smith_company_2018.
    • The software will add the .ac2 extension, typical for the Banana files
    • Chose a file name containing the company name and the accounting year, for example smith_company_2018.
      The software will add the .ac2 extension that distinguishes the Banana files.

    Adapt the template

    1. Edit the File properties
    2. You can now adapt your Chart of accounts
      • Enter your bank accounts.
      • Enter or edit the chart of account to fit it to your requirements.
        While going along with your work, you will still be able to add or edit, if new needs arise.

    Start with an existing File

    Starting from an existing file or template, without modifying the existing file.

    There are several possibilities to copy data:

    • Open the File that is to be your template via the Browse button and indicate the path to locate your file.
    • Create a copy of the open file, using the Save As command from the File menu
    • Else, you may create a copy of the open file via the Tools menu, click on the Create File Copy command, the window that will appear allows you to choose which data to keep. If none of the three options are activated, a file is created with the Plan of Accounts only.

    •  

    Save the file in the folder where you wish to keep the data (normally in the documents folder)

    • Enter the company name and the accounting year as file name, for example smith_company_2018.
    • If you are taking over an existing accounting file, you will also need to enter the opening balances in the Opening column.
    • If you are working in a multi-currency file, you need to update the opening exchange rates.

    Starting from a New empty File

    You will be starting from scratch, so you will need to set up the basic accounting data and the entire Plan of Accounts (not recommended).

    • File Menu, New command
    • Click New empty
    • Select your language
    • Select your category
    • Select your Accounting template
    • From the dropdown list of templates that will display in the dialog box, select the template that most closely matches your needs.
      Clicking on the file will automatically open it and can then be saved with the name you wish. 
    • Setup the  Outline to create new file

    Related documents

    Transferring to a new year

    When transferring to a new year, there is a specific procedure to follow, in order to create a new year's file and automatically carry forward the opening balances.

    New file settings

    When the program creates a file with new characteristics, you need to setup the outline of the new file.

     

    Outline to create new file

    Language
    The language used for the columns headers of the various tables.

    Decimal points for amounts
    In order to avoid accounting differences, the number of decimal points for the amounts is fixed for each file. Two decimal points are normally used, but there are currencies where decimal points are not required so 0 needs to be inserted.

    Decimal points for amounts in foreign currency
    If using multi-currency accounting, then it is necessary to define the number of decimal points for the amounts in the foreign currency as well.

    Rounding type
    The amounts are rounded up or down to the closest whole number. In the case of exactly half (for example: 100.5 / 101.5 / 102.5 / 103.5) the following systems are being used:

    • Banking (Half at even) is being rounded up or down towards the nearest even number (100 / 102 / 102 / 104).
    • Commercial/Arithmetic (Half up) is being rounded up to the next whole number (101 / 102 / 103 / 104). In accounting, this is the system most used.
    • Compatible version 4. A minor precision is being used, which in very special cases, can bring forth a different rounding.

    Address fields in accounts table
    When this option is activated, the Address view is created in the Accounts table. In this view, the user can enter the addresses of clients, suppliers and members.

    Budget Table
    When this option is activated a Budget Table is created, where the user can enter his budget transactions.

    The user can thus create different accounting files, in different languages, and with different decimal points. In order to change the language or the decimal points once the accounting file has been created, the accounting type must be converted by selecting Convert to new file from the Tools menu.

    Open, save, copy and backup

    Opening a file

    • Accounting files can be opened in Banana Accounting if they are on the local computer or if they are accessible through a network.
      If they have been sent by email, before opening them you need to move them in a computer folder
    • Only one user at a time can edit a file
      If you edit a protected file or a file already in use by other users, you need to save the file with another name in order to save your changes.
    • The Banana Accounting program, notifies that you have opened a read-only file in the following cases:
      • the file is located on a non-writable disk (CD-ROM)
      • the file is located on a temporary non-writable folder
      • the file is protected or the user doesn't not have rights to edit it
      • the file has already been opened by another user
      • the file has already been opened from the same user but in another session

    How to look for *.ac2 files

    If you don't remember in which directory your accounting files are located, you can use the search Windows Explorer box or the Mac finder search tool.

    Find your accounting file on a Windows computer

    Banana Accounting files have an .ac2 or .sba extention. The Windows search tool will vary depending on your Windows version.

    • Windows 10: click on the search icon on the Applications bar and enter "ac2" or "sba" or your file name and click on the Documents arrow.
    • From the Explorer File Manager enter the "*.ac2" extension, the "*.sba" extension or your file name and let Windows look for it.
    • When in Banana you get to the Open file dialog window (File menu -> Open), enter the "*.ac2" or "*.sba" extension in the top right search box and then click on the look in the whole PC icon, or select the directory where you want Windows to look for your file.

    Find your accounting file on a Mac computer

    • When in Banana you get to the Open file dialog window (File menu -> Open), enter "ac2" or "sba" or a word that is part of the file name in the top right search box. With the icons, select where you want to look for your file (in the entire computer or in selected folders).
    • Open the Finder and enter "ac2" or "sba"or a word belonging to the file name in the search box.
    • Right click on the Finder icon, then click on Search, and then enter "ac2" or "sba" or a word belonging to the file name.

     

    Saving a file

     

    With the Save or Save as... command, the data are saved onto the hard disk. Pre-existing disk data are replaced with the new ones.

    • A single file can be saved by one user at a time
      The file can be saved by the user only if it is not also being used by other users
    • Files can be saved anywhere.
      You can enter the file name and destination when saving it for the first time or when using the Save as command from the File menu
      As a first option, Banana Accounting suggest the Documents folder as destination folder for the .ac2 files, but it can be changed with the Browse button.
    • If you are managing different accounting files, we suggest you to create a separate folder for each company and for each accounting year.
    • Each file can be password protected.
       

    Accounting files (*.ac2, *.sba)

    • Files created with Banana Accounting have an ".ac2" or ".sba" extension, regardless the operating system used.
    • The file with the extension "sba" is completely similar to ac2. The sba extension is used for the Dutch and Chinese version of the program. When referring to the file type "ac2" it also applies to the file type "sba".
    • The .ac2 file format is specific for Banana. When saving, all data are compacted and saved in bulk.
    • Ac2 files are compatible between different operating systems (Windows, Mac and Linux)
      You can save a file with Windows, then open it and edit it on a Mac, and then reopen in on a Linux or Windows computer.
    • Each file can be sent as an email attachment, edited on different operating system and resent to the sender.
    • Accounting files are completely separated from the software Banana itself, that has an .exe extension for Windows,
    • The installation files for Mac have a .dmg extension and a .deb, .rmp .run or .tgz extension for Linux.


    Automatic saving

    Banana Accounting automatically creates and saves your work in a temporary file that ends with ".autosave" . When you press the Save button or you exit the program, this temporary file is deleted. In case your computer should crash or turn off in the middle of your work, it would be possible to recover your data by opening this file.

    In order to have the program automatically create this temporary autosave file, the corresponding option should be active (it usually is by default) in the Program Options (you can access them from the Tools menu).

    When the program is reopened after a crash and finds that the AutoSave file (temporary) was not deleted, a message appears, asking whether you want to retrieve the file. If the user confirms the recovery, the original file is renamed in the following format: < file_name.ac2 >. > date + time >. bak.


    How to copy or move your accounting files

    Banana can save your files on any unit seen by the operating system or on a rewritable disc.
    From non-rewritable discs (CDs or DVDs) Banana can open the files on a "read only" mode.

    All .ac2 files can be moved in different ways:

    from one directory to another:

    • using Windows Explorer or Mac Finder to locate the directory where your files have been saved
    • copying and pasting them in the new destination directory (once you pasted them you can delete from the original directory)

    from one computer to another:

    • saving the files on a memory stick and then saving them on the new computer:
      • open the file to be moved
      • from the File menu choose the Save as command, choosing the memory stick as destination unit
      • this copy can also be made from Explorer by dragging the accounting file into the memory stick unit
    • by sending them as email attachments and then saving them on the new computer


    DropBox, Google Drive and other synchronization systems

    Banana is compatible with systems such as DropBox and Google that keep files synchronized with cloud storage services.
    Banana overwrites *.ac2 files and deletes the *.ac2.bak files. In the deleted files list you will find all *.ac2.bak files previous versions.

    Viewing changes

    Banana Android works directly with Dropbox servers. If you make changes on your PC, usually you have to wait a few seconds before you see the changes on the server, so also on Banana.

    To ensure that the file is properly synchronized with the server, the file on your PC must be marked with the green check mark.
    If you do not see the sync symbols (green, red, blue), you have to update the Dropbox application installed on your PC.

    Another way to check the synchronization status from your PC, is to click on the Dropbox icon in the bottom bar:

    In addition, Android synchronization does not occur while you are working with the app. You must close and reopen it.

    Attention: Banana cannot realize if some files are opened simultaneously on more than one computer. It could thus happen that someone erases some data or that someone else adds some new data. Only the more recent copy of the saved file is kept. For this reason we strongly advise to avoid working at the same time on the same file.


    Security copies (backup)

    We strongly advise you to create external backup copies of your accounting files, in order to prevent a possible data loss, due for example to a computer crash or other causes.

    • if you have a Mac computer you can use "Time Machine"
    • if you have a Windows computer you can use the "File history" function

    You can find other programs on the market that allow you to automatically create a backup of your data.


    Saving and .bak files

    When saving, Banana Accounting replaces the contents of the existing file, with the more recent data, only if the saving process is successfull:

    • Data are saved on a temporary file
      Only if the saving process is successfull the data on your disk are replaced to the existing ones.
    • If the Create backup copy (.bak) option is activated (Tools menu -> Program options command -> Avanced tab) the program renames the pre-existing file with the same name, adding the .bak extension.
      A new file named "filename.ac2.bak" is created, containing the data before the saving process.

    If an error occurs during the saving process, if for example the network disk is no longer available, choose another file name for saving your data.


    Recover your data from a .bak file

    When for a number of reasons you cannot find your accounting file, you can recover your data from the backup copy automatically created by the program. Here is how to proceed:

    • open the directory where your accounting file was located
    • open the file with a .bak extension. If it is not shown in the dialog window, you need to select the "show all files (*.*)" option at the bottom right of the window
    • once the file is opened, save it with a name. Usually the same name as the lost file is chosen.

     

    Damaged .ac2 files

    Sometimes a computer crashes due to technical problems or viruses. Sometimes data received by email are compromised or damaged. For these reasons we strongly suggest you to make copies of your files.
    If, for technical reasons you have a damaged file, our support team can verify, for a fee, if there are data that can be recovered.


     

    Recover autosave file

    This dialog appears when the program closes unexpectedly, and it was not possible to save changes made to the file.
    When the program is reopened, it detects that the autosave file (temporary file) has not been canceled, and then asks if you want to retrieve the file.

    You can choose from the following options:

    • Recover
      • The autosave file is copied replacing the original file
      • The original file is renamed as indicated in the dialog window
    • Don't recover
      • Both the original file and the autosave file are kept
      • The program will not warn you anymore that the autosave file was kept
    • Cancel

    The autosave files that were not recovered will be kept, and will have to be deleted manually.


    If the program stops working

    If the program is closed normally, it asks whether to save the modified data, and the autosave file is deleted.

    However that program may be unexpectedly closed for a number of reasons:

    • A power outage or another event that caused an immediate arrest of the operating system
    • A problem that led to the crash of the program
      • Due to another program or to a situation of the operating system or driver that caused the program to stop.
        Try to restart your computer and use the program without other programs.
        • A flaw in the operating system or a faulty program can cause an interruption of Banana.
          • Problem with some Dell computers.
        • A computer fault (memory error)
        • A virus or some other problem
      • A problem in the Banana Accounting software
        Usually when, repeating the same command always causes the program to crash.
        If the program stops in completely different situations, is more likely that the problem is due to a computer or operating system problema (see above)
        • First of all make sure that you have the latest version of the program
          Install the updates if necessary. The problem could have been solved in the meantime

     

    Contact technical support

    Verify the situation in which the program stops.

    • It is important to understand in what situations the program stops, so that technicians can replicate the problem.
    • When you contact the technical service:
      • Describe the problem and how it can be reproduced - describe the error.
      • Enter your system details (you can copy them under Tools -> Program Options -> Info System.
      • If the problem occurs in relation to a file, send a copy of the file (removing confidential data).

     

    File properties

    When a new file is created, the basic data need to be entered in the File menu, using the File and accounting properties command.

    The file properties can vary depending on the chosen accounting type.

    For the explanations of the different tabs please visit the pages hereunder.

    Accounting Tab

    Left and right headers

    These are the two empty cells at the top where any desired text can be inserted which will be used as a header for print-outs (left and right).

    Opening date

    The opening date is the date when the accounting begins. It can also be left blank. If a date prior to the opening date is inserted when entries are made, the program will give an error message.

    Closing date

    This is the closing date of the accounting. It can also be left blank. If a date greater than the closing date is inserted when entries are made, the program will give an error message.

    Basic currency

    The code of the currency in which the accounting is being handled. You can enter any currency code, even the one that are not in the list.  When the code of the basic currency is being changed, the program changes the column headers for the amounts in basic currency using the new code.

    In the multicurrency accounting files it is mandatory to select the basic currency, which will work as the funcional currency, the one used for the calculation of the Balance sheet and Profit & Loss statement.

     

    Changing the basic currency symbol

    If you change the basic currency symbol the program will not change the existing amounts. We advise you to change your basic currency symbol only if you don't have yet entered any opening balances and any transactions.

    Accounting file WITHOUT foreign currencies

    You can replace the basic currency symbol with the new symbol.

    Accounting file WITH foreign currencies

    • Replace the currency symbol in the File properties dialog (from the File menu)
    • in the Accounts table
      • Select the whole Currency column (click on the column's header)
      • Use the Find and replace command from the Data menu and enter the old and the new currency symbol - make sure to check the Selected area only option. Replace all the symbols found.
    • in the Exchange rates table
      Enter the new exchange rates for all the currencies.
    • Give the Check accounting command from the Account1 menu.
    • If there are opening balances or transactions, the amounts and the exchange rates will have to be manually updated.

    Options Tab

    Transaction date required
    If this option is activated and then a transaction is entered without a date, there will be an error message.

    Recalculate totals manually (F9)
    If this option is activated, the program will not automatically recalculate the principal groups of the accounting file, but the user needs to use the F9 key.

    File from previous year
    By using the Browse button, the user can select a file from the previous year.

    Smart fill with transactions from previous year
    If this cell is checked, the program keeps the transactions from the previous year in memory, and offers them as Smart Fill while the user inputs new entries.

    Use the minus sign (-) as segments separator
    When this option is activated, the segments have to be entered in the Transactions table with the minus (-) sign preceding the segment code. When this option is deactivated, the segments need to be entered with the colon sign (:), as in the chart of accounts. The colon needs to always precede the segment code.

    Records (+/-) cost centers according to the category
    This function is active only for Income & Expenses accounting and Cash book. By activating this box, the amount is entered in the cost center (positive or negative) according to the category.

    If, instead, this option is not active, in order to enter a negative value, it is necessary to enter a minus sign before the cost center (-CC).

     

    Related document: Text imput, edit and Smart fill

     

    Address Tab

    In this tab data about the company or the individual whose accounting is being handled can be entered.

     

    Other Tab

    Current language
    There are some file texts that the program generates automatically, (e.g. the lines of the Totals table, the transactions on the account card, and the printout of the Enhanced balance sheet); in this tab, the user can indicate the language for these texts (usually the same as the creation language).

    Creation language
    This is the language chosen and selected when the user creates an accounting file; this language is used for the column headers. If the user wants to change the creation language, then it is necessary to convert the file to a new one using the Convert to new file command in the Tools menu.

    Apps properties
    You can enter one or more keywords to view the Banana scripts (BananaApp) that require so.
    If a script has the @docproperties attribute, it will only work in Banana files that have set the same keyword in the Apps properties field. To set multiple keywords, you need to separate them with the ; (example: datev; donations)

    Usually these keywords are specified in the scripts installation instructions; most of the scripts do not use keywords to limit the display to certain files.

    Password Tab

    The files can be protected by using a password.

    Password compatibility with old versions

    Activate this option if you want your password to be compatible with the Banana Accounting 8 versions and earlier.
    This option not recommended because the password is saved in a less secure mode.

    Entering a password in a file that doesn't have a password

    • The box Confirm old password is shown in gray.
    • Indicate your new password twice (New password and Confirm new password).
    • Confirm with OK.

    Changing an existing password

    • Enter the existing password.
    • Indicate your new password twice.
    • Confirm with OK.

    How to cancel a password

    • Enter the existing password.
    • Leave the boxes for the new password empty.
    • Confirm with OK.

    Forgotten password

    For information about a forgotten password, please refer to the Questions and Answers page, Password unlock paragraph.

    Note

    Using a password does not give a high level of protection. In order to render the data truly inaccessible to third parties, it is necessary to have the appropriate cryptographic software.

    Text Tab

    In this tab it is possible to enter different keys in order to save extra information, such as the accountant name, for example.

    Key
    In this field, input the reference text (e.g.: Address).

    Value
    In this field, it is necessary to input the value related to the key (e.g.: Ocean Avenue, ...).

    Add
    This button saves the new entered data.

    Remove
    This button removes the selected Key.

    Create Pdf dossier

    In order to create a Pdf file choose the Create Pdf dossier from the File menu (or click on the corresponding icon on the Toolbar).

    File Name
    In this area you need to enter the name of the new file that the program will create to export the data. If, however, an existing file is selected by using the Browse button, the program will overwrite it with the new data.

    Display file immediately
    As soon as the Pdf file has been created, the software to view it will be launched. In this way, the result of the export can be seen immediately. It is best to remember that browsers like Mozilla and MS Explorer use a cache mechanism for files. When the export is made for a second time, it is possible that the user will see the previous version until the browser Reload button is pressed.

    Table creation options
    Headers 1, 2 and 3
    These are the table headers.

    Page options
    By activating the page options it is possible to include:

    • page numbers
    • page progressive numbering
    • date

    Page size
    You can select the page format

     

    Other Tabs

    For the explanations of the other tabs, please visit the following pages:

    Setup a Logo

    Setup a Logo

    From the Banana version 9.0.3  it is possible to include a logo and to define its settings (width, height, position) from the File menu > Logo setup command. It is also possible to create and save Compositions with different logo settings.
    This feature is a simplified alternative to the logo setting with the Documents Table.

    In the Logo Formats dialog window -> Options tab, it is possible to include an image with the Add button; you can also define the width, height and alignment of the logo image. If the logo has already been inserted, it my be modified or deleted via the Modify/Delete button.

    Note:

    Thanks to this feature, the logo can now be recalled and applied for all printouts, as follows:


    If, however, you only wish to use the logo in a specific printout, you need to directly enter it in the setup of that printout, for example the Account cards, the Enhanced Balance sheet, the Enhanced Balance sheet with groups and the Accounting report.

    Text

    If this box is ticked, headings of the dialog windows for "Account Cards", "Enhanced Balance Sheet", "Enhanced Balance Sheet with Groups" and "Accounting Report" will be added, relative to the logo (i.e. Below, Center, Top).

    paola

    Dateispeicherort öffnen

    Dieser Befehl im Menü Datei öffnet das Dateiverwaltungsprogramm Ihres Betriebssystems (Windows Explorer, Finder Mac) und zeigt den Ordner an, in dem sich die Datei befindet, an der Sie gerade arbeiten. Hieraus kann die gewünschte Datei kopiert, verschoben, umbenannt oder gelöscht werden (rechte Maustaste).

    • Menü Datei
    • Befehl Speicherort öffnen - Öffnet das Dateiverwaltungsprogramm um die Dateien zu verwalten.
    • Zum umbenennen, verschieben oder löschen, muss die Datei zuvor in Banana Buchhaltung geschlossen werden.
      Manchmal bleibt die Datei gesperrt, auch wenn Sie sie geschlossen haben. In diesem Fall muss auch das Programm beendet werden, um die Datei vollständig freizuschalten.
    • Kehren Sie zum Dateiverwaltungsprogramm zurück.
       

    Recent / Favorite files

    These commands display the list of recently used files and the favorite files.

    In order to eliminate the list of recently used files, click on the File menu, Recent files, and on Clear list recent files.

    In order to remove just one single file from the Recent Files list of the Favorites (Start page), position the cursor on the file name, proceed with a right mouse click and select Remove (Mac users should use the key combination Ctrl + right mouse button).
     

    To make a file Favorite:

    • Open the desired file
    • Click on Favorite files
    • Click on Add to list

     

    To edit the list of favorites, click on:

    • Favorite files
    • Edit list..
    • In the window that appears, edit the favorites, by using the buttons: Add, Remove, Open folder.

    Edit Menu

    The Edit menu contains a series of practical data editing commands.
    See also Keyboard shortcut.

    Undo / Redo operation

    These simple commands allow you to cancel or restore the last operation made.

    Copy, Cut and Paste

    It is possible to copy/paste cells, rows or selected text (unless protected), just as you can do it in Excel.

    • Select the line or the area of data to be copied
    • In the Edit menu, select the Copy or Cut command
    • Move to the row or the area where the information should be copied
    • From the Edit menu, select Paste

    The user can also copy/paste by using the icons  or press Ctrl+C to copy, Ctrl+X to cut and Ctrl+V to paste.
    There are also commands such as Copy rows, Delete rows and Paste rows: in this case they refer to a full row or rows and not to a cell selection. For this purpose the commands Copy, Cut and Paste should not be used.

    Copy with column headers

    Use the Preview command and the Copy o Clipboard.

    Select all

    This command selects all the active table.

    Copy row from above (F4 or Cmd + 4)

    This command is very practical and allows you to copy the contents of the cell above to the one you are in. Applicable to a single cell, several cells or an entire row.

    Execute command (F6 or Cmd + 6)

    This command performs various practical functions depending on the cell in which you are located. More information on the Interface page.

    Insert rows... (Ctrl+ +)

    This command inserts blank rows above the selected row:

    • Position the cursor below the line where the empty rows are to be inserted
    • From the Edit menu, select the Insert rows ... command
    • In the window that appears, type the number of rows to be inserted
    • Confirm with OK.

    Add rows...

    To insert blank rows below the selected row, follow these steps:

    • Move the cursor above the row where additional rows need to be inserted
    • From the Edit menu, select the Add rows command
    • In the window that appears, key in the number of rows to insert
    • Confirm by clicking on OK

    There is still another procedure to add blank rows:

    • Move the cursor above the row where additional rows need to be inserted
    • Click on the following icon  on the Tool bar, one time for each row that you want to add. This procedure is advised when the amount of rows to be added is rather limited. The sequence for the shortcut key is: Ctrl+Enter.

    Duplicate rows...

    This command duplicates the selected row (s).

    Copy rows ... (Ctrl + Shift + C)

    This command copies the selected rows. If rows are copied, the command Insert copied rows is automatically activated, which can be exploited by positioning the mouse at the point where you want to insert the previously copied rows.

    Delete rows... (Ctrl+ -)

    In order to delete one or more rows, select the row or rows that need to be deleted and from the Edit menu, click on the Delete rows command.

    Protect/Unprotect rows

    Using the Protect rows command, from the Edit menu, the user activates rows protection to avoid making any changes by mistake.
    The protected rows cannot be edited until, by using the Unprotect rows command, the protection is being removed.

    To put protection into effect:

    • Select the desired row(s) to protect
    • From the Edit menu, select the Protect rows command
    • Confirm the number of rows to be protected by clicking on OK.

    Protected rows have light grey row numbers. In order to edit them again, first remove the protection by the Unprotect rows command in the Edit menu.

     

    Data Menu

    Find and Replace

    The text to be searched and the text to be used as a replacement should be inserted in the same format as the one displayed in the input field. For example, the amounts should be inserted without the separator for the thousands.

    Search text
    Enter the text to be searched.

    Replace with
    Enter the replacement text.

    Options

    Whole words only
    If this box is activated, the program will find whole words only. For example, if the word being searched is Tot, it will not find Totals.

    Match case
    If this box is activated, the program will make a distinction between capital letters and small letters.

    Selected area only
    If this box is activated, the program will only search the information in the selected area.

    Replace all
    This key will replace the desired data throughout the whole document at once. When you need to change data that are being repeated in the Accounts, Categories, Transactions and VAT codes tables (for example, an account number or a VAT code), you can also use the Rename function.

    Replace
    This key will replace one data at a time.

    Find all
    Looks for all the information, according to the entered keyword, and displays it in the Information window in the lower part of the screen.

    Find next
    Looks for the following information item.

     

     

    Find

    Search text
    Enter the text to be searched. Amounts must be entered without separators.

    Options

    Whole words only
    If this box is activated, the program will find whole words only. For example, if the word being searched is Tot, it will not find Totals.

    Match case
    If this box is activated, the program will make a distinction between capital letters and small letters.

    Selected area only
    If this box is activated, the program will only search the information in the selected area.

    In order to begin the search, click on the Find button. The first piece of information corresponding to the request will be selected. To continue the search and find the next piece of information, select the Search next command from the Data menu, or else use the F3 key.

    Rename

    This command allows the user to change the account or category number (accounts or categories table) and the VAT code (VAT Codes table), without having to enter the necessary modifications in the transactions.

    In order to rename, you need to:

    • position yourself with the mouse on the cell that has to be changed (account/category number, VAT code);
    • click on the Rename command from the Data menu;
    • enter the new name in the appearing window.


    Then, the software operates as follows (for example if you rename an account):

    • verifies that there is no other account or group with the same number; if there is it the software will alert and ask if you want to proceed anyway. Please note that it is not possible to have to identical account numbers in the accounting plan;
    • verifies where the account to be renamed has been used and makes sure that the rows are not protected or blocked; if they are it will alert that the rename operation cannot be carried forward;
    • substitues the account number wherever it has been used, in the tables and in the File properties, with the new account number.

    The software does not recalculate any total, simply renames the account number.

    Go to

    Select the Go to... command from the Data menu to open a window allowing the user to move to a desired row. When a selection table is active (for example, an account card), by using the Go to original row command, the program automatically takes the user to the corresponding row of the Transactions table.

    Extract and sort rows (Extract)

    The Extract and sort rows command is available from the Data menu. This command is different from the Sort rows command, since it creates a new table where the result of the extraction or the sort is shown. The rows of the original table will not be changed.

    Extract

    In the Extract table you can click on the row number (underlined) to return to the row of the original table.

    Column
    You need to select the column you wish to extract the data from.

    Condition
    You need to select the condition for the extraction (ex. Greater, less, contains text, starts with, ends with, ...)

    Value
    In this field you must enter the text you want to use as comparison in relation to the condition (for example, if the condition is = Equal, entering 25.01.2015 as value, the program will extract all transactions with date January 25, 2015).
    The value is a date if the selected column was Date, a numeric value if the selected field was Amount, a text if the selected columns was Description.

    Add
    This button allows you to add new fields for the extraction.

    Clear all
    This button allows you to clear all the settings you have entered for the extraction.

    Sort selected rows only
    This option is only available when rows have been pre-selected. If activated, only the selected rows will be sorted.

    Total row
    If this option is activated, the program will show the total row for the extracted rows with an amount.

    Sort

    The sorting columns are being indicated. The options are the same as for the Sort rows command.

    Composition

    The explanations of this window are available on the following web page: Composition.

    Example accounts list

    It happens sometimes that you want to have a list with only the accounts.

    • Put yourself in the Accounts table.
    • Impart the "Extract and Sort" command
    • In column, choose "Account"
    • Under condition, indicate "Not empty"

    In case you wish to have accounts sorted by description

    • Put yourself on the "Sort" section
    • In the "Sort by" box, indicate the "Description" column

    If you want to display only certain columns, you can create a new view with the Tables setup command.

     

     

     

     

    Extract and sort rows (Sort)

    The Extract and sort rows command is available from the Data menu. This command is different from the Sort rows command, since it creates a new table where the result of the extraction or the sort is shown. The rows of the original table will not be changed.

    Sort by
    You can choose the desired sorting criteria.

    Then by
    The program allows you to choose two other sorting criteria other than the main one.

    Ascending
    The rows sorting is done in an ascending order, taking into consideration the selected sorting criteria (date, doc, ...)

    Descending
    The rows sorting is done in a descending order, taking into consideration the selected sorting criteria (date, doc, ...)

    Number
    If the column chosen as sorting criteria only contains numbers, you need to check this option.

    Clear all
    This button allows you to clear all the settings you have entered for the extraction.

     

    Sort rows

    The Sort rows command is available from the Data menu. Please take note of the fact that the Sort rows command is different from the Extract and sort rows... command, since it changes the order of the rows in the table you are currently working on, according to the sort keys you entered. We advise you to be very careful before pressing the OK button, especially if you are working in the Accounts Table, because you might completely change your accounting plan structure.

    The rows on the table can be sorted according to the content of the columns. It is possible to enter up to three sorting keys:

    Sort by
    From the dropdown list choose the desiderd sorting key

    Then by
    You can here choose an additional sorting key other than the first one

    Ascending
    The rows sorting will be in an ascending order, according to the selected sorting key (date, doc, ...)

    Descending
    The rows sorting will be in a descending order, according to the selected sorting key (date, doc, ...)

    Number
    You need to activate this option if the sorting key you chose only contains numbers

    Clear all
    This button allows your to clear all settings previously chosen as sorting criteria

    Selected rows only
    This option is only available when rows have been pre-selected. If activated, only the selected rows will be sorted.

     

    Columns setup

    New columns

    In the new version Banana Accounting Plus, in the Transactions table, we have added new columns for the integrated Invoicing and the new Balance column that identifies on each row, any differences so you can immediately correct them.

    The command Columns setup command can be found in the Data menu. With this command, columns can be displayed, hidden, renamed or moved left or right in the various tables.

    Display Tab

     

    Header
    This is the column header.

    Header 2
    This header is used by the program for only a few fields (e.g. Amount column).

    Description
    This is the description of the field. This description will be shown as a tooltip.

    Format
    This is the format to show numbers, date and time (see chapter at the end of this page).

    Width
    This section defines the horizontal size of the column.

    Column Style
    This is a drop-down menu that indicates the style to be used (Format, menu, see sub chapters). This style has priority over the style of the row.

    Alignment
    The user can choose whether to align the text right, left or center in this drop-down menu.

    Wrap text
    This option allows the user to view the input text on more than one line.

    Protected
    This option allows the user to protect the entire column so that no data can be input or edited.

    Exclude from printing
    When this option is activated, the field will be excluded from printing.

    Visible
    This option allows the user to make column visible.

    The tables can be altered. Fields can be added, headers can be changed, and column sizes and the order in which they are shown can be altered.

    Move up, Move down
    The fields are listed in the order in which they appear on the table being used. The visible fields are the ones with a checkmark.
    In order to alter the order in which they appear simply select the field you wish to move and drag it up or down.

    Add
    This button adds new fields (columns) to the current table. Field added by the user are just information fields; the program does not make any calculation on numeric data.

    Delete
    This function is used to delete a field (column) from the list. A system field, however, cannot be deleted.

     

    Settings Tab

     

    Field name
    This is the name of the active field and it is automatically inserted by the program. It cannot be modified.

    Field name Xml
    This is the name of the active field in the Xml format and it is automatically inserted by the program. It cannot be modified.

    Data type
    It is possible to choose between the following predefined types: Text, Number, Amount, Date, Time.

    Max and Min length
    Maximun and minimum field length.

    Max and Min Value
    It is possible to enter minimum and maximum values (numbers or characters).

    Decimal points
    It is possible to define the field decimal points

    Field number
    This is a number automatically given to the field, and has uniquely a technical purpose.

    All caps
    By clicking this options all fields data will be shown in caps characters.

     

    Date, hour and number format

    When the format is modified, the way the date, time and numbers are shown, changes.

    If no specific format is specified, the default format of your operating system will be used (date, time and numbers as indicated on the control panel).

    In the Format area of the Set up fields/Edit attributes command (Data menu) the user can use other formats. Types of formats, with some examples, are listed below:

     

    Date format

    Examples for date

    d mm yy

    1 01 15

    dd m yy

    01 1 15

    ddd mmm yyyy

    Fri Jan 2015

    dddd mmmm yyyy

    Friday January 2015

    The letter “d” (day) indicates the day, the “m” (month) indicates the month, and the “y” (year) indicates the year.

     

    Time format

    Examples for time

    hh:mm:ss:zzz

    04:04:36:089

    h:m:ss:zz

    4:4:36:89

    Naturally the user can also invert the order of the elements making up the date or the time as desired (e.g.: mm dd yyyy).

    As far as the separators are concerned, the user can choose between all of those available on the keyboard (for example: #, @, -, /, ., etc.).

     

    Numbers Format

    Example for numbers

    0.

    259

    0.00

    258.85

    0.000

    258.848

    The number of decimal spaces in a number field can be edited according to the user’s needs. Actual calculations are made using all the inserted decimal numbers. Rounding is only done for what is shown on screen.

    New column

    Field name
    Enter the field name of the column to add.

    Field name Xml
    The name of the column to export in Xml and in scripts.

    Data type
    It is possible to choose between the following predefined types: Text, Number, Amount, Date, Time.

    Tables setup

    This command allows you to manage Tables and Views:

    • The Tables:
      These are the elements that contain the data in a format or rows and columns.
       
    • The Views:
      Indicated under every table.
      These are the elements that define the way in which the columns of the table are displayed.
      Thanks to the views, one can define which columns need to be visible, the sequence of the displayed columns and the way in which they are displayed. 

    View's Settings

    In order to add tables, please go to the Add new functionalities command.

    For each table, you can define:

    • Name
      The name of the table in the file language. This field cannot contain spaces or special characters.
      It can only be changed for added tables.
    • Xml name
      The name this is being used for the programming. This field cannot contain spaces or special characters.
      It can only be changed for added tables.
    • Header
      The name that appears in thetables list
    • Visibile
      Indicates whether the table is visible or not.

    Manage Views

    Name
    It is possible to enter a new name for the selected View.

    Xml name
    This is the View name for the Xml export. For system Views this name cannot be changed.

    Number
    This is a number automatically given to the View by the program.

    Visible
    When selecting this checkbox the View will be visible.

    System
    If this checkbox is selected the View is a system View and cannot be deleted or edited.

    Columns setup...
    Displays the Columns setup page that allows to edit them, both in displaying them as well as in setting them up.

    Page setup...
    This button leads to the page format settings.

    Add...
    This button adds a new View to the active table.

    Delete...
    This button deletes a View.

    Set as default

    Defines the View that is being used.
     

    New view

    View name
    Enter the name of the view you want to add.

    View name Xml
    This is the view name for the Xml export.

    After its creation, the new view is displayed in the same place as the existing views and will be added at the right side of the others.

     

     

    Format Menu

    In the Format menu the following commands are present:

    Default style

    This is the default style for the whole file.

    Points

    Use different points to define the font size.

    Bold and Italic

    Highlights in bold or italic texts from the selected cell or row.

    Change default style

    In order to change the default style:

    • attribute the desired style to a row;
    • select the Change default style command from the Format menu

    All the rows with the original default style will then be shown in the new default style.

    Calculate row height

    When the text for a row is very long, the Calculate row height command from the Format menu allows the user to view it completely, adapting the height of the row.

    To adapt the height of the row to the text, the user should:

    • choose the Columns setup command from the Data menu;
    • select the appropriate field name;
    • activate the option Wrap text in the Display tab;
    • recall the Calculate row height command from the Format menu each time it is necessary. 

    Calculate all row heights

    This command operates in the same way as the previous command except that it works on all the rows in a table instead of only one.

    Reset all row heights

    Restores row heights to the default value.

    Page break

    At any point in a file, the user can insert a page break
    To insert a page break:

    • Place the cursor on the first row where the new page is to be created
    • Open the Format menu
    • Select the Page break command

    To remove a page break:

    • Place the cursor on the row with the page break
    • Open the Format menu
    • Select the Page break command again

     

    Highlight rows with colors

    In order to highlight the rows:

    • Select the rows to be highlighted and on the icon , click on the first symbol if you want to color the background, and on the second one if you want to color the text.
       
    • In order to deactivate the color, select the row(s) and click on No color (present in the menu of each color).

     

     

    Tools Menu

    File info

    The File info command, from the Tools menu, displays the characteristics of a file.

    Columns

    By activating the Complete view also the Xml columns are displayed, through which it is possible to transfer the values automatically when exporting the table.

    • Section: the Group name of the values
    • ID: the specific and explicit identification of the value
    • Description: contains an explanation of the value
    • The rows in bold print are the section titles that group the different elements together
    • Value: the formatted value
    • Section XML: The name of the section in English
    • ID XML: the identification in English
    • Value Xml: the field contents in Xml format.

    The Section XML and the ID Xml identify the value unambiguously.

    Add new functionalities

    The Add new functionalities command is in the Tools menu. ff

    The available option may differ according to the file type.

    Add a new simple table

    It allows you to add tables completely manage by the user.
    Once is added, the table cannot be removed anymore.

    You need to indicate the table's name.

    The table will have two predefined columns:

    • Id column - to indicate a selection group
    • Description column - to enter a text

    Inside the table you can add new columns with the Columns setup command from the Data menu.

    New Documents table

    Information are available at the Documents Table page.

    Add addresses columns in the Accounts table

    For accounting files.

    This functions allows you to add, in the Accounts table, specific columns to enter clients, suppliers, or members addresses.

    The program will add in the Accounts table the following items:

    • the Addresses view, where the addes columns are visible
    • the columns that allow you to enter addresses data and other information
      • In order to make one or more of these columns visible also in other views, you need to use the Columns setup command from the Data menu.
      • In order to create views with specific columns, you need to use the Tables setup command from the Data menu.

     

    Add Budget table

    For accounting files.

    This function adds a Budget table, where you can enter budget transactions.
    The program will do the following operations:

    • Add the budget table, that will show the budget data indicated in the Accounts table (if present)
    • Lock the budget column in the Accounts table
      From now on, the amounts contained in this column, will be calculated based on the budget transactions and on the period defined in the File and accounting properties.

    More information are available at the Budget page.

     

    Edit the VAT Amount type column in the transactions

    For accounting files with VAT management.

    This function allows you to edit the Amount type (VAT amount type) in the Transactions table.

    This column allows you to enter, for each transactions, when it is necessary, one of the following VAT amount types:

    0 (or empty cell) -  it means VAT included (with VAT/taxes)
    1 = VAT excluded - it means VAT excluded (without VAT/taxes)
    2 = Tax amount - the transaction amount is considered 100% VAT/taxes amount
    For each transaction, the programs automatically fills in the data as setup in the VAT Codes table (for each code). If however, exceptionally, this needs to be changed, you can manually enter 1 or 2 in the Amount type column.

     

    Kopie Datei erstellen

    Dank Befehl Kopie Datei erstellen aus Menü Werkzeuge wird sofort eine Kopie der geöffneten Datei erstellt.
    Die neue Datei
    ist unter neuem Namen (Menü Datei Befehl Speichern unter...) zu speichern.

    Diese Funktion ist sehr nützlich, wenn man versuchen möchte, Änderungen an der aktuellen Datei vorzunehmen, jedoch jederzeit wieder auf die bestehende zurückkehren kann.

    Kopieren oder verschieben von Buchhaltungsdateien

    Banana Buchhaltung ist in der Lage, auf jedem beliebigen Laufwerk zu speichern, welches vom Betriebssystem als eine wiederbeschreibbare Disk anerkannt wird.
    Von nicht beschreibbaren Datenträgern (CD oder DVD) kann Banana Buchhaltung Dateien ausschliesslich lesen.

    *.ac2-Dateien können verschoben werden:

    Von einem Verzeichnis (Ordner) in einen anderen:

    • Mit Hilfe von Windows-Explorer oder Finder (für Mac) das Verzeichnis (Ordner) suchen, in dem die Dateien gespeichert sind
    • Datei/en in das neue Zielverzeichnis (Zielordner) kopieren oder verschieben. Nach dem Einfügen können allenfalls nicht mehr benötigte Datein aus dem Ursprungsverzeichnis (Ursprungsordner) gelöscht werden.

    Von einem Computer auf einen anderen:

    • Auf einem Memorystick (USB-Speicherstick) oder externen Laufwerk speichern und dann auf dem neuen Computer speichern:
      • zu speichernde Datei öffnen
      • aus dem Menü Datei den Befehl Speichern unter ausführen und die Einheit mit dem Memorystick (USB-Speicherstick) oder externen Laufwerk auswählen.
      • Die Kopie kann ebenfalls durch Starten von Windows-Explorer oder Finder (für Mac) und Ziehen der Datei mittels Maus in die Einheit des Memorysticks (USB-Speichersticks) oder externen Laufwerks erstellt werden.
    • Durch Senden per Email (als Beilage/n) und Speichern auf dem neuen Computer.
       

    Buchhaltungsdateien löschen oder umbenennen

    Das Programm Banana Buchhaltung hat keine Funktion zum Löschen oder Umbenennen der Datei. Es ist die dafür entsprechende Funktion des Betriebssystems (Windows-Explorer oder Finder (für Mac) zu verwenden.

    Dropbox, Google Drive und andere Synchronisierungssysteme

    Banana Buchhaltung ist kompatibel mit Systemen zur Synchronisierung der Dateien mit Cloud-Speicher Diensten wie Dropbox und Google Drive.
    Banana Buchhaltung überschreibt die *.ac2-Dateien und löscht die *.ac2.bak-Dateien. Im Verzeichnis der gelöschten Dateien können die vorhergehenden Versionen der *.ac2.bak-Dateien gefunden werden.

    Die Änderungen anzeigen

    Banana Android greift direkt auf dem Dropbox-Server zu. Werden Änderungen am eigenen PC angebracht, muss man in der Regel ein paar Sekunden warten, bis diese auf dem Server bzw. in Banana ersichtlich sind.

    Um sicherzustellen, dass die Datei ordnungsgemäss mit dem Server synchronisiert ist, muss die Datei auf dem eigenen PC mit einem grünen Visum versehen sein.

    Wenn keine (Sync) Synchronisierungs-Symbole (in grün, rot, blau) erscheinen, ist die auf dem PC installierte Dropbox-Anwendung zu aktualisieren.

    Der Synchronisationsstatus auf dem eigenen PC kann auch überprüft werden, indem man unten in der Taskleiste das Dropbox-Symbol anklickt:

    Synchronisierung mit Dropbox

    Ausserdem findet die Android-Synchronisation nicht statt, wenn die App geöffnet ist. In diesem Fall die Applikation schliessen und neu starten.

    Achtung:

    Banana Buchhaltung bemerkt nicht, wenn mit Synchronisierungssystemen verwaltete Dateien gleichzeitig auf mehreren Computern geöffnet und bearbeitet werden. So könnte zum Beispiel vorkommen, dass eine Person Daten löscht oder eine andere neue Daten hinzufügt und nur die zuletzt gespeicherte Version der Datei beibehalten wird bzw. die übrigen Änderungen verloren gehen.
    Aus diesem Grunde ist höchste Aufmerksamkeit angebracht, um unbedingt zu vermeiden, dass dieselbe Datei gleichzeitig von mehreren Arbeitsplätzen aus bearbeitet wird.

    Sicherheitskopie (Backup)

    Wir raten unseren Benutzern, auf jeden Fall externe Sicherheitskopien (Backups) zu erstellen, um einen möglichen Datenverlust, infolge z.B. eines Computerabsturzes oder anderer Ursache, zu vermeiden.

    • Auf Mac die Funktion "Time Machine" verwenden
    • Auf Windows die Funktion "Datei-Chronik (History)" verwenden.

    Im Handel sind auch andere Programme erhältlich, die erlauben, automatische Backups Ihrer Daten zu erstellen.

    Speichern und *.bak-Datei

    Wird gespeichert, so ersetzt Banana Buchhaltung den Inhalt der vorhandenen Datei mit den neuesten Buchhaltungsdaten; dies jedoch nur, wenn der Speichervorgang erfolgreich verläuft:

    • Die Daten werden in einer temporären Datei gespeichert.
      Nur wenn der Speichervorgang korrekt abgeschlossen wird werden die gespeicherten Daten mit den zuvor vorhandenen ersetzt.   
    • Wird die Option Backup Datei (*.bak) erstellen (Menü Werkzeuge -> Basiseinstellungen -> Erweitert) aktiviert, benennt das Programm die vorhandene Datei mit dem gleichen Namen und fügt die Erweiterung ".bak" hinzu.
      Dadurch wird eine neue Datei "Dateiname.ac2.bak" erstellt, die die Daten vor dem Speichern enthält.

    Tritt während des Speichervorgangs ein Fehler auf, z.B. das Netzwerklaufwerk ist nicht mehr verfügbar, ist ein anderer Dateinamen anzugeben, unter welchem die Daten zu speichern sind.


    Daten mittels *.bak-Datei wiederherstellen

    Kann aus irgendwelchem Grund die Buchhaltungsdatei nicht mehr verwendet werden, so kann auf die Sicherheitskopie zurückgegriffen werden, welche das Programm automatisch erstellt.

    So vorgehen:

    • Verzeichnis (Ordner) auswählen, in welchem die Buchhaltungsdatei gespeichert worden ist.
    • Datei mit der Ausdehnung .bak öffnen. Falls die Datei nicht im Verzeichnis aufgeführt ist, ist unten im Fenster im Feld "Dateityp" Alle Dateien (*.*) auszuwählen.
    • Die Datei nach dem Öffnen mit Namen speichern (Menü Datei, Befehl Speichern unter...), wobei die Ausdehnung .bak zu löschen ist.
    • Normalerweise wird die Datei gleich wie die verlorene Datei genannt.

    Sicherheitskopie (Backup)

    Beschädigte *.ac2-Dateien

    Computer sind anfällig für Defekte aufgrund technischer Probleme oder Viren. Es kann ausserdem vorkommen, dass per E-Mail gesendete Dokumente beschädigt ankommen.
    Deshalb ist es immer ratsam, Sicherheitskopien zu erstellen.
    Wurden Ihre Dateien aufgrund eines technischen Fehlers beschädigt, kann unser technischer Support gegen Bezahlung  gerne versuchen, die Daten wiederherzustellen. Bitte stellen Sie uns hierzu Ihre Datei oder Dateien per E-Mail zu und bestätigen Sie uns, dass Sie bei erfolgreicher Wiederherstellung bereit sind, den Unkostenbeitrag gemäss Preisliste zu übernehmen. Bitte vergessen Sie nicht, Ihre Adresse (für die Rechnung) zu vermerken.

    Convert to new file

    This command converts an existing file (which will not be modified) into another one with different characteristics:

    • Change language
    • Change the roundings
    • Change the file type. For example:
      • Pass from an accounting without VAT to one with VAT
      • Pass from a Double-entry accounting to a Multi-currency accounting

    It is as if you have created a new blank file and then have manually transferred the data.

    The existing file characteristics can be consulted by executing the command Tools -> File Info
     

    Creation and data transfer

    The Convert to new file command, from the Tools menu:

    1. Creates a new file of the specified type with the predefined columns setup
    2. Transfers the data into the new file, proceding with the necessary conversions
    3. Saves and indicates the name of the new file.

    When converting a file with more options into one with fewer options, part of the data will be lost during conversion. If, for example, an accounting file with VAT/Sales tax is converted into an accounting file without VAT/Sales tax, all data in the VAT columns will be lost during conversion.
     

    Passing from a Double-entry accounting to a Multi-currency accounting file

    • Make sure that in the File and accounting properties the currency symbol is being specified (which will become the basic currency)
    • Choose the Multi-currency accounting as destination
    • The program creates a Multi-currency accounting, recovering the existing data:
      • The Transactions table includes the columns for managing the Multi-currency accounting, as a currency the basic currency and the exchange rate 1.000
      • The existing accounts in the Accounts table are being completed with the basic currency symbol
      • The Exchange rate table will be empty; it is therefore necessary to add the currencies and exchange rates used in the transactions
      • In the Accounts table, the accounts in foreign currency have to be added.

    In order to change the currency of an accounting file, see the Accounting tab of the File and accounting properties.

    Passing from an accounting without VAT to one with VAT

    • Choose the desired type of accounting with VAT as the destination 
    • The program creates an accounting with the VAT columns, recovering the existing data:
      • Add the VAT accounts into the Chart of accounts
      • The File properties regarding the VAT need to be completed, and the default acccount on which the VAT must be recorded needs to be indicated
      • The VAT Codes table has to be completed with the necessary VAT Codes
        With the Import to accounting command -> VAT codes, the VAT codes table of an existing accounting can be imported (for example it can be imported from a default VAT acccounting template).

    Dialog

    • The file type, in which the user is working, is being indicated
    • For more information on the language, roundings and decimals, go to the File and accounting properties (from the File menu)
    • A list with different options appears

     

    Outline to create new file

    For more information, please consult the specific page.

    Merge file

    Il is possible to merge two files, but they have to belong to the same group (for example two double-entry accounting files). It is not possible to merge files belonging to different groups (for example one double-entry accounting file and one simple accounting file).

    In order to successfully merge two files, it is crucial that they have the same accounts numbering. Proceed as follows:

    • Open the file which will contain the data of both files
    • Select the Merge File command from the Tools menu
    • Select the path and the name of the file to be merged
    • Confirm the merge operation
    • If the files are not the same, even though they belong to the same group, (for example, accounting with VAT/Sales tax and accounting without VAT/Sales tax), a message will appear advising the probable loss of data.

     

    Program options

    In the Program options window, several technical options are possible for the accounting file.

    In the following pages you will find more detailed information.

     

    Interface

    Program

    Language
    The Program Language is the language used by the program. Use this drop-down menu to select a language if the user wants to use a language different from the default or if the default is not available.

    Font type
    This drop-down menu allows the user to select the desired font.

    %Zoom
    If the user wants the data on the table to be shown in another size, adjust the percentage of Zoom here.

    Show negative numbers in red
    The negative numbers and amounts will be shown in red in the tables.

    Startup

    Check for updates
    This option establishes a connection to the Banana.ch SA website and checks if there is an update compared to the version that is used.

    Display start page
    The news start page is shown.

    Show recently used files
    In the File menu, all the most recently used files are listed.

    Start Web server
    Makes it possible to access Banana Accounting data through external programs.

     

     

    Editor

    Behavior

    Edit table with single click
    By activating this option, a single click on the selected cell is sufficient to enter in the modification mode. If the function is not activated, you have to double-click on the cell in order to enter in the modification mode.

    Autocomplete text (Smart fill)
    By activating this option, the program automatically selects the first draft text in the drop down list and automatically fills it in the row where you are.

    Add up during selection
    By activating this option, the program will add up the selected amounts. Deactivate this function if this instantaneous addition slows certain operations down. One can select non-adjacent amounts by holding down the Ctrl key while selecting individual cells with the left mouse button.

    On Enter go to the next row
    By activating this option, the cursor will place itself on the next row when pressing the Enter key.

    Input

    Maximum number of undo operations
    Insert the maximum number of undo operations (one at a time) when using the Undo command from the Edit menu.

    Smart fill rows limit
    When inserting data, the program reads the data that has already been entered and tries to suggest how to complete an entry. In cases where there are many rows, this function could slow down the process.
    The user can define a limit for the number of rows, above which the smart fill will not be used. If there is no value entered or zero, smart fill will always be used.

     

     

    Advanced

    Backup

    Autosave (in minutes)
    This option allows saving the file automatically according to the desired frequency (in minutes). The program saves the data in a file called auto backup + file name. If the program or the computer crashes, the data can be recuperated by opening this file and saving it with a name (Save as...) from the File menu.

    Create backup copy (.bak)
    When the user saves to disk using the same name, the version of the file that already existed is renamed with a .BAK extension.

    Files extension

    Extensions of files considered secure
    This option defines the file types  (ex.: "pfd", "jpg", ...) or the url schemes (es.: "http:", "x-devonthink-item:", ...) that the software consents to open with a double click on the DocLink column of the Transactions table. This prevents from opening non-secure files by the program. Extensions should be inserted without the initial point '.', while the schemes must be inserted with a final double dot ':'.

    Pdf

    Enable TrueType fonts
    If this option is enabled, the font selected in the Interface tab is used when printing PDF files, otherwise a native PDF file type (Helvetica or Times New Roman) is used. This option must be disabled if in the generated PDF files the texts are unreadable.

    Restore Defaults

    If some settings have been altered, by using this button, the default settings will be restored.

     

    Developer

    Developer options

    This tab includes useful options fors cripts, apps and http pages developers for Banana Accounting.

    Enable Screenshots (Ctrl+3)

    If this option is activated, with the key combination Ctrl + 3 it will be possible to save screenshots of the program tables and dialog windows.
    For more information please also check the  Taking screenshots page.

    Display Debug output panel

    If this option is activated a 'Debug output' panel is shown on the bottom of the main window. In this panel all debug messages are shown to the user. Debug messages allow to check that the program is working properly during scripts or add-ons execution or during web server calls. This option is meant for scripts, add-ons or http sheets developers. For further documentation see the page Debugging.

     

    Taking screenshots

    This feature is available by using the key Ctrl+3. Facilitates the capture and saving of a program image.
    In order to use this feature you need to activate it via the Tools menu -> Program options -> Develper tab -> Enable schrrenshot (Ctrl + 3)
    It is useful for preparing documentation, as it only captures the part of the program windows that you are interested in.

    Capturing the image

    When capturing an image we advise you to use a 90% zoom, so more data will fit in the image but you still get readable texts.

    • Capture all
      It creates an image of the full Banana window.
    • Capture table and info window
      It only captures the table and the info window below the table (without menus, toolbar and status bar).
    • Capture table
      It only capture the table
    • Capture columns
      It only captures the table, and only up to the maximum columns width (it doesn't include the white spaces).

    Resize window (pixel)

    It resizes the program window to a pre-defined size, so if you take multiple shots you always have the same size.

    Hide / Show window's compontents

    It allows you to see more table rows, by hiding the toolbar, the info window and the status bar.

    Windows  - How to remove the dialog windows shadow

    Windows 8 e 10 "enhance" their dialog windows by adding a shadow to them. When capturing the window image you therefore also see the background.

    In order to avoid this you can proceed as follows:

    • From the Windows search box type Sysdm.cpl
    • Go to the Advanced section
    • Visual effects Settings
    • Uncheck the option Show shadow

    System Info

     

    The System Info card displays information on the Operating System and the work environment. Our technical support might ask for this information. In this case, click on the "Copy to Clipboard" button and paste the data in the e-mail or the contact form.

     

    Account1 Menu

    In the new version Banana Accounting Plus version, the Account1 menu has been changed with the Report menu, much more functional and direct to easily find the commands and quickly obtain different reports.

    We advise you to switch now to Banana Accounting Plus and take advantage of the many new features.

    In the Account1 menu, you can find the commands to obtain the screen display and the printouts of the different accounting documents, as well as the commands for data import.

    The commands are the following:

    By clicking on the various links, you will be directed to the web pages with detailed information about the various commands.

     

     

    Account2 Menu

    Actions Menu

    In the new version Banana Accounting Plus version, the Account2 menu has been changed with the Actions menu, which groups the main operational functions in a much more functional and productive way.

    We advise you to switch now to Banana Accounting Plus and take advantage of the many new features.

    In the Account2 menu, you can find the following commands:

    By clicking on the various links, you will be directed to the web pages with detailed information about the various commands.

    Extensions Menu

    These are extensions of the program's functionalities, for reporting, calculating, exporting, importing, establishing bills and reminders and other.

    They need to be set up by the user by clicking the appropriate button in the Manage Extensions dialog from the Extensions menu.

    Execution takes place via the Extensions menu or within the specific functionality (for example: Import into accounting).
    The Extensions menu lists all the already installed Banana Extensions related to the file that is open at the moment. By selecting the command, the indicated Extension will be executed.

    Extensions menu

    Manage Extensions

    The Manage Extensions... command allows you to search for, install, alter your settings or uninstall Banana Extensions.

    Installing a new Extension

    For installing a new Extension, visit our Manage Extensions... page.

    Technical information on Banana Extensions

    Herewith some technical information on Banana Extensions

    • They are programs in Javascript that make use of API's available in Banana Accounting.
    • They are very secure and cannot perform functions that might an impact on the operating system.
    • Single Extensions.
      A text file with the .js extension, which contains a program in Javascript, indicating the characteristics to be a Banana Extensions.
    • Extension package
      A compressed file with the .sbaa extension, which can contain several other files, necessary for the application, such as commands, images, dialogues. A package can contain several commands. The title of the package and the commands it contains are indicated in the Extensions menu.
      If you disable a package, all Extensions will be disabled.

    Prerequisites for running Extensions

    The commands for running Banana Extensions are only made available if the current file (the one on which you are working) has the features required by the Extensions. If an app is not visible in the Extensions menu or is not executable, it will be because none of these features are present.

    • Extensions are available in specific context:
      • Productivity
        Commands that can be recalled in the Extensions menu.
      • Import.
        Available via the Import into accounting command.
      • Export.
        Available in the Extensions menu. The user should define the file name at the end of the process.
      • Invoice report
        Prepares the invoices to be printed. Available via the Print invoices... command (Account2 menu → Clients).
      • Reminder report
        Prepares the reminders to be printed. Available via the Print reminders... command (Account2 menu → Clients).
      • Statements.
        Prepares the statements to be printed. Available via the Print statements... command (Account2 menu → Clients).
    • Association via a File Type.
      This requires the current file to be - for example - an Accounting file, or the double entry file, or addresses.
    • Association via a property.
      Some Apps will only be executable if the relevant word is specified in the File properties, Other section (from the File menu).
      For example, the List of Administrators to be printed, that require specific fields, will require the word "Administrator".

    Develop your own Extensions

    Anyone can create Banana Extensions that extend the functionality of the program. However, programming fluency is required..

    To develop a Banana Extension, it is recommended to set out from an existing project.

    • Start from an example available on the github.com \ BananaAccounting site
    • Please refer to the developer documentation.
    • Install the application via the Manage extensions command (from the Extensions menu).

     

    Manage Extensions

    This dialog window allows you to install, modify settings and uninstall Banana Extensions.
    Install an Extension in order to be able to use it.

    Installing a new Extension

    To install an Extention, proceed as follows:

    • Choose the 'language' and 'country'
    • From the left menu, select Online
    • Select the Extension type (e.g. productivity)
    • Look for the desired Extension among those listed; or in the Search box, type the name of the Extension you want
    • Click on the Install button
    • Click on the Close button

    Below are the available Extensions :

    The installed Apps will be visible in the Extensions menu.

    List of Extensions

    This list shows the installed Banana Extensions and those available for installation.

    • The check sign will indicate that the App is installed.
    • The App denomination
    • Information on the Banana Extension.
      • Description
      • Link for main information, will open the relative internet page
      • Last update
        Banana Extension date and hour
        Local Banana Extension date and hour (as per imported file)
      • Category
        Typology of the Banana Extension
      • Nation
        Nation where Extension can be used. International will indicate that Extension can be used in several nations
      • Install button
        Download Banana Extension for local use
    • Information on installed Extensions
      • The ">" symbol preceding a packet will designate a Banana Extensions packet, that contains several commands.
      • Enable
        If the enabled box is not checked, the Extension will not figure in the menu. For a packet, single commands may me deactivated.
      • Automatic update.
        When a new version is made available, it will download automatically.
      • Required properties.
        For an Extension to function properly, the Extension properties must be set up in the File and accounting properties (from the File menu - Other tab). 
      • "Apply properties" button
        Will apply new properties for your file
      • "Execute" button
        Will execute the specific command.
        This button will only highlight if the App is applicable in the context of your current file.
        For example, a multi-currency function will only be applicable if the file has been created as a multi-currency accounting file.
      • "Settings" button
        Certain Extensions allow you to set the settings for execution of your task. They will be related to your currently open file. If you use the same App with another file you must redefine the settings.
        In the invoice reports, for instance, we indicate the elements necessary for printing.
      • "Uninstall"button
        Will uninstall the App or the packet.

    Search Extensions

    Extensions are listed according to the following selection criteria:

    • Language
    • Nation
    • Text
    • Installed
      Displays locally installed Apps.
    • Online
      List of online available Apps.
    • System.
      List of preinstalled Apps. You may enable or disable via the check box.

    Help (bottom button)

    It links to this page.

    Add from file

    Let's you add a Banana Apps from a local file. Indicated especially for development of new Apps..

    • The file needs to always remain in the same directory.
    • If the App is modified, the program will always use the last version.

    Add fro URL

    Allows you to install Apps present in the list of Apps available on the www.banana.ch website. 

    Update Extensions

    Downloads the filter's most recent version from Banana Accounting's server.
    The downloaded Extension should not be modified because they will be overwritten when updated.
    If there are new Extensions , they will be added to the list. The imported filters will not be modified.

    The Extensions will be installed in the user folder. Thus only the user who imported the new Extensions or updated the available ones will see them. To install Extensions for all users or at a system level, a manual procedure for installing the Extensions would need to be followed. 

     

     

    Erweiterungseinstellungen

    Bei einigen Erweiterungen können Sie Einstellungen festlegen, die von der Erweiterung verwendet werden.

    • Die Einstellungen können mit dem Dialog eingerichtet und geändert werden.
    • Beim Start werden die Einstellungen mit den Standardwerten eingegeben.
    • Die Parameter beziehen sich auf die Buchhaltungsdatei.
    • Ein Erweiterungspaket kann mehrere Erweiterungen enthalten, weshalb es mehr Parameter pro Paket geben kann.

    Einstellungendialog 'Erweiterungen'

    Der Inhalt des Dialogs ist für jede Erweiterung unterschiedlich.
    In
    der folgenden Abbildung wird das UNI10-Rechnungslayouts dargestellt.

    Dialog settings extensions

    Wert-Eingabebereich

    Der Einstellungsdialog ist als Elemente strukturiert, die jeweils Unterelemente enthalten:

    • Spalte Eigenschaften.
      • Hier sind die Optionen aufgeführt, mit denen Sie die verschiedenen Einstellungen in der Spalte Wert ändern können.
    • Spalte Wert.
      • Für jede Option gibt es einen  zugehörigen Wert in der Spalte Wert. Durch Anklicken können Sie einen Wert eingeben, einen vordefinierten ändern oder einen bestehenden löschen.

    Schaltflächen

    Am Ende des Dialogs befinden sich die folgenden Schaltflächen:

    • Hilfe.
      • Die Hilfe-Schaltfläche verweist auf die Dokumentationsseite der von Ihnen verwendeten Erweiterung.
    • Voreinstellungen.
      • Durch Klicken auf diese Schaltfläche werden alle Standardwerte der Spalte 'Wert' wiederhergestellt.
    • Abbrechen.
      • Bricht den Dialog ab und schliesst ihn, ohne Änderungen vorzunehmen.
    • OK.
      • Bestätigt und speichert die eingegebenen Einstellungen.
        Wurden diese versehentlich gespeichert, kann man durch Anklicken des Befehls Abbrechen zur vorherigen Situation zurückkehren.

    Begeben Sie sich in den Einstellungendialog

    Sie können auf folgende Weise auf die Dialog-Einstellungen zugreifen:

     

    Installing an App offline

    In order to install an App in an offline mode proceed as follows:

    • connect yourself to our Apps webpage, using a different computer connected to the internet
    • download the App that you need (a .js or .sba file ) and save it on a USB key or other device
    • copy the App on the computer without internet connection
    • Open Banana Accounting from your computer without internet connection and open your accounting file
    • from the Apps menu, choose the Manage Apps command
    • click on the Add from file button and select the path were you saved the App
    • the App will now be included in the installed Apps and in the Apps menu

     

    Print label

    From the Labels -> Print command from the Apps menu, you can print the addresses. In the different tabs you can choose different settings, from the label format to le selection of the addresses to be sorted and printed. Each setting can be saved with the Compositions.

    For the explanations of the different tabs, please consult the following pages.

     

     

    Options

    First label starting position

    Decide on the position of the first label. For example, if 1 is entered in the horizontal and vertical fields, it refers to the upper left-hand corner of the page.


    Number of copies for each label

    The value of 1, in this field, means only one copy of each label is wanted.

    Warn if text exceeds label
    If the text goes beyond the margins for the label, the program will warn the user by sending an error message if this cell is activated.


    Labels format

    You can choose between the label formats available in the list.
    If the list doesn't have the format you wish, through the Change button, you can access the Label format dialog windos where you can choose your desired settings.


    Data

    Indicate the data source for the labels to be printed:

    • Table - the current table data will be printed. If a data extraction occurred, only the extracted data will be printed.
    • Addresses - all table addresses will be printed
    • Selected rows only - only the earlier selected addresses will be printed.

     

    Label

     

    Field list

    This is a list of all possible label fields; to insert a field, it is possible to work in two ways:

    • Double-click on an element from the list
    • Click on an element from the list, confirming with the Add Field key.

    The field selected will be inserted at the position of the cursor in the View labels area. One can directly insert fields by writing the field name between the < Less and > Greater symbols.
     

    View labels

    Shows the disposition of the fields. The entries "<NAME FIELD>" will be replaced with the corresponding value of the table.

    The symbols Greater and Less are considered field delimiters. In order to make them appear in the text
    write "\<" for "<";
    write "\>" for ">"
    and write "\\" for "\"

    Preserve line feeds and spaces.
    In case this option is deactivated, the program does not take eventual spaces and empty rows in consideration.

     

    Extract

    The explanation of this section is available on the page Extract Rows of the Data menu.

     

    Sort

    The explanation of this section is available on the page Sort Rows of the Data menu.

     

     

    Composition

    The explanations of this window are available on the following web page: Composition.

     

     

    Labels format

    From the Apps menu, Labels command, Formats option, you can access the labels setup.

    The program already offers many predefined label formats; it is however possible to setup personalized parameters through the Default command.

    The program already offers many predefined label formats; it is however possible to setup or edit the default parameters, as well as your customized ones, through the Composition (Default) command.

     

    Page settings - Options

    Page

    Margins
    Input the size in centimeters; if no size is entered, the margin sizes will be zero.

    Number of horizontal labels
    Input the number of horizontal labels there are on the page.

    Number of vertical labels
    Input the number of vertical labels there are on the page.

    Print Landscape
    The page will be printed horizontally if this cell is activated.

    Arrange labels from right to left
    The labels will be printed from right to left and from top to bottom.

    Label

    Margins
    It is possible to input a margin for each label; the values for the label margins must be input in centimeters.

    Center text horizontally
    Select this option to horizontally center the text for each label in the cell.

    Center text vertically
    Select this option to vertically center the text for each label in the cell.

    Font size

    Base size
    This field shows the default font size.

    Reduce to fit, but no less than
    The program calculates the maximum font size possible for a given label, starting from 14 points all the way down to 8 points. The calculation is made taking into account both the height and width of the label. If a label has a line that is too long (or has too many rows) to be printed, then an error message will appear in the message window. Even if it is incomplete, the label will still be printed.

    Note:

    the printers will not print on the whole surface of a page because they need minimum margins. The program tries to adapt the single labels to the margin values required by the printer.

     

    Page settings - Composition

    All the settings that have been activated in the "Options" tab can be saved by using the Compositions and can be displayed when needed.
    For more information on this section, consult the Composition page.

     

    Favorites menu

    The names of all the created Compositions appear in the list of the "Favorites menu". When it is necessary to display or print a favorite, just select it from the list of the Favorites menu, without having to edit or modify its configurations.

    When you have created compositions for the first time, in order to display them in the Favorites menu, you have to close and reopen the accounting file.

     

     

    Composition

    Compositions are saved personalized settings that can be used at a later date.

    In this regard, all compositions can be displayed in the Favorites Menu.
     

    It is possible to create Compositions for the following accounting data:

    • Account cards
    • VAT report
    • Enhanced Balance Sheet
    • Enhanced Balance Sheed by groups
    • Reports
    • PDF dossier
    • File export
    • Extract and Sort rows
    • Addresses / Labels

    How to obtain Compositions

    Compositions can been obtained mainly through the Account1 menu when it is about the Accounting cards, the Enhanced Balance sheet, the Enhanced Balance sheet with groups, the Reports and the VAT report, and from the File menu for the compositions concerning Create Pdf dossier and Export file

    • Once the document to be created has been chosen, start from the corresponding menu (Ex. Account cards or Enhanced balance sheet by groups...) and click on Default
    • from the dialog windows that appears click on Composition and on the New button
    • enter the name of the new composition
    • check the desired options
    • click on the Apply button

    Each composition, once created, will appear in the menu of the corresponding command and can be edited, renamed, duplicated or deleted.

    Name
    Enter a name to identify the composition (for instance, Quarterly Report).

    Description
    Enter the description for the composition.

    Show this window every time
    If activated (default), when selecting a composition from the menu, the dialogue for editing the settings will be shown. If not activated, the preview of the requested report (Balance sheet, report, etc.) will be shown directly.

    Show in menu... (depending on the menu/command in which one is being positioned)
    If this option is activated, the composition will appear in the menu of the command.

    Show in 'Favorites' menu
    If this option is activated, the composition will appear in the Favorites menu.

    Read only
    If this option is activated, it will not be possible to edit the settings.

    New
    This button allows you to create a new composition.

    Delete
    This button allows you to delete an existing composition.

    Duplicate
    This button allows you to duplicate a composition.

    Import
    This button allows you to import a composition from another Banana Accounting file.

    Apply
    This button allows you to save the chosen settings for the new composition.

     

    Display in the starting menu

    According to the menu you are in, the Default composition and your personal saved compositions will be shown.

    Composition (Default)
    This is the composition used by default from the program, if no other composition has been created.

    In the following example the menu of the Accounting reports is shown.


    Direct access to the compositions

    In the tables where the compositions are being shown and in the previews, the composition menu and the settings icon are being displayed. These make it possible to easily move from one composition to the next and provide rapid access to the settings in case you want to edit these. 

     

    Window menu

    In the Window menu, all the files currently open in Banana Accounting are shown at the bottom, and the one currently used is selected. The others remain in the background.

    With the Next window or Previous window commands you can switch from one window to the other - shortcut key Ctrl + Tab is also very useful.

    With the commands Tile or Cascade you can see, within the Banana Accounting software, the various files opened simultaneously, arranged side by side or cascade. If you have two monitors, it is also very practical to open the Banana Accounting program twice and in each one you can open an accounting file: in this way you have more visual space. For more information see below.

    With the Start page command you can choose whether or not to display the start page.

    In the messages section, it is possible to choose whether and how these should be reported - Warning messages and Acoustic signals commands.

     

    Viewing two files at the same time

    As explained above, there are two ways to view two or more files at the same time.


    Opening two files side by side in Banana Accounting

    • Open the two files through the File menu -> Open command
    • From the Window menu, select the Tile command

    The two files are displayed within the same program. The Info window at the bottom changes according to the file where you are working with the cursor.


    Under Windows it is possible to open the Banana Accounting program twice at the same time 

    • Open the Banana Accounting program twice, starting from Windows start button
    • In each of the programs open an accounting file.
    Excellent solution if you have a wide screen or two monitors connected to the same computer.

    Help Menu

    The Help menu gives access to the followings commands:

    • User's guide - access to all documentations and explanation of all technical and accounting topics
    • Keyboard shortcuts - list of all keyboard shortcuts with detailed use description
    • Check for updates... - access to our website to check if there are newer versions of the software
    • Support center - access to Banana support web page
    • Feedback - link to our website contact form where you can leave a feedback
    • Register - access to Banana web page for users registration
    • Manage license key - allows to enter the license key for the program
    • About Banana Accounting - access to technical information about the program such as version number, serial number, Copyright.....

     

    Keyboard shortcuts

    You can also consult the list of keyboard shortcuts directly from the program, by choosing Keyboard shortcuts from the Help menu.

    Short-cut Keys

    Accounting Keys

    Description

    F9

    Perform simple recheck.

    Shift+F9

    Perform global recheck.

    F6

    This key executes different functions depending on the column the user is working on. The functions are explained in the information window.

    Alt+ Left click

    Display the Extract rows table or the Account card table when clicking on an account number.

    . (Full stop/Period)

    On a date column insert the current date.

    Editing Keys

    Description

    Enter, Tab

    Confirming keyed-in text and advance one cell.

    Alt+Enter

    Confirming keyed-in text and advance one row.

    Shift+Tab

    Confirming keyed-in text and return to previous cell.

    F2

    Edit content of cell.

    Double click

    Edit content of cell. Under the program options you can select to edit content of cell with a single click.

    Backspace, Space

    Delete content of current cell and edit the content.

    Backspace

    Delete preceding character.

    Del

    Delete subsequent characters.

    Ctrl+C

    Copy selected text or cells.

    Ctrl+V

    Paste copied text or cells.

    Del

    Delete content of selection.

    not assigned

    Delete text from the cursor point to the end of the cell.

    F4

    Copy previous cell from same column.

    Shift+F4

    Copy previous cell from same column and advance one cell.

    Ctrl+Shift+C

    Copy selected rows.

    Ctrl+Shift+V

    Insert copied rows.

    Ctrl+-

    Delete selected rows.

    Ctrl++

    Insert rows before position of cursor.

    Ctrl+Enter, Ctrl+Return

    Add one row below position of cursor.

    Moving keys

    Description

    Left

    Scroll towards left.

    Right

    Scroll towards right.

    Up

    Scroll up.

    Down

    Scroll down.

    PgUp

    Scroll up one screen page.

    PgDown

    Scroll down one screen page.

    Home

    Scroll to beginning of row.

    End

    Scroll to end of row.

    Ctrl+Home

    Scroll to top-left angle of table.

    Ctrl+End

    Scroll to bottom-right angle of table.

    Ctrl+Left

    Moves towards left to the edge of the current data region.

    Ctrl+Right

    Moves towards right to the edge of the current data region.

    Ctrl+Up

    Moves up to the edge of the current data region.

    Ctrl+Down

    Moves down to the edge of the current data region.

    Alt+PgDown

    Next view.

    Alt+PgUp

    Previous view.

    Ctrl+PgDown

    Next table.

    Ctrl+PgUp

    Previous table.

    Ctrl+Tab

    Next window.

    Ctrl+Shift+Backtab

    Previous window.

    F5

    Scroll to desired row by keying in row number in active window.

    Shift+F5

    Go to original row.

    Selection Keys

    Description

    Shift+PgUp

    Select column moving upwards, page by page.

    Shift+PgDown

    Select column moving downwards, page by page.

    Shift+Left

    Select row to left.

    Shift+Right

    Select row to right.

    Shift+Up

    Select upper column.

    Shift+Down

    Select lower column.

    Shift+Home

    Select back to start of row.

    Shift+End

    Select forward to end of row.

    Ctrl+Shift+Home

    Select back to top of table.

    Ctrl+Shift+End

    Select forward to end of table.

    Ctrl+A

    Select entire table.

    Other Keys

    Description

    Ctrl+F4

    Close active window.

    not assigned

    Exit program.

    Ctrl+N

    New file.

    Ctrl+S

    Save.

    Ctrl+O

    Open.

    Ctrl+P

    Print.

    Esc

    Cancel operation.

    Ctrl+Z

    Undo operation.

    Ctrl+Y

    Redo operation.

    Ctrl+F

    Find.

    F3

    Find next.

    Ctrl+B

    Bold text.

    Ctrl+I

    Italic text.

    F1

    View help.

    Multimedia keyboard

    Is performed by

    Function key (eg. F6)

    Press the fn key as well as the corresponding function key (e.g. Fn+F6).

    Error messages

    List of messages

    If the program displays error messages

    • revert to the the help page for the reported error: in the 'Info' and 'Messages' (where the error messages appear), next to the error message, the  symbol will show. By clicking on this symbol, you will be connected directly to the online page corresponding to the error, containing the possible causes and solutions.
    • If the error persists:

    Deactivate and Reactivate Error messages

    • Deactivate visualisation of error messages
      • Checking the box "Don't warn" in the dialogue
      • Unclick Warning Messages (Window Menu)
    • Reactivate visualisation of error messages
      • Click Warning Messages (Window Menu)
      • With the Check Accounting command

     

    Import

    Information on import are available in the single online lessons, listed in the left side menu.

    Import into accounting

    New import extensions

    In the new version Banana Accounting Plus, you will find new extensions for importing data from SmartBusiness and also files in .zip format.
    We advise you to switch now to Banana Accounting Plus and take advantage of the many new features.

    Supported import formats

    With Banana, one can import from whatever format (see the list of current supported formats). In case you should need to import from other file types that are not included in the list, specific Banana Import Apps can be developed.

    The Import to accounting command

    The Import to accounting command from the Account1 menu makes it possible to import the following data:

    • Transactions - to transfer the transactions from another Banana file or from the bank statement
    • Accounts - to transfer the accounts from another Banana or a text file
    • VAT codes - to transfer the VAT codes from another Banana file or from a text file
    • Files - to transfer a complete file in order to convert the Chart of accounts

    In order to transfer data just one single time, please consult Transferring data from other accounting software.

    Procedure for importing

    1. Choose the destination table of the data
    2. Choose the file type from which to import
    3. Indicate the file name
    4. Choose the transactions to be imported

    Destination table

    For each data type, there are specifique pages

    Import formats

    According to the type of destination table, different import formats are availbale.

    However, the following formats are available for all options:

    • Text file with column headers
      These are files that are especially created with other programs (for example, a program that creates invoices) so that the data can be transferred into Banana Accounting.
      Technical indications on how to prepare these type of files can be found here.
    • There are also other file types for which a specific import filter exists or has been created.

    File name

    • The name of the file of which the data need to be imported needs to be indicated here. 

    Manage apps...

    Ok Button

    • Starts the import.

    Error messages

    In case error messages appear during an import operation, update, first of all, the Import App.

     

    Import transactions

    Import procedure

    1. From the drop down menu, choose Import transactions
    2. Choose the file type from which to import (Cash book transactions, Double-entry accoutning transactions)
    3. With the Browse button, choose the file from which to import the transactions

    More information about all types of import filters can be found on the Banana Apps page.

    File types that can be imported

    • Import transactions from an Income & Expenses accounting file
      In order to import transactions from an Income & Expenses accounting file into a double-entry accounting file, it is necessary that the categories of the Income & Expenses file correspond to the accounts of the Double-entry accounting file.
    • Import Cash book transactions
      Apart from importing the transactions, an import summary per month or quarter can also be obtained. 
      See the specific page Import Cash book transactions.
    • Import Double-entry accounting transactions
      In order to import transactions from a Double-entry accounting file into another Double-entry accounting file, it is necessary that the accounts correspond.
    • Import transactions from Bank statement ISO 20022 or MT 940
      See page Bank Statement ISO 20022
    • Import data in Txt / CSV
      This format must be used by those who want to export data from another software and import them into Banana Accounting.
      See also the technical information on how to create an import file for Banana Accounting.
      This file type is being used to import data from other programs, such as:
      • in order to import monthly transaction from your salaries software
      • in order to import the invoices issued with a invoicing software
      • in order to import the payments made with your invoicing software
      • in order to import your sales transactions from your online shop
      • in order to import data from another accounting software
      • in order to import data from another cashbook management software (for example a restaurants or a hotel).
    • BananaApps for importing
      Allows you to transform data exported by another program (proprietary format), in the import format required by Banana Accounting.

    Choice of rows to be imported

    After having elaborated the rows to be imported, the program displays a dialog, in which the user can indicate further options.

    Destination account

    This option is present when data of the bank account (or postal account) statement, or an account's income & expense transactions in a text format, are being imported.
    Insert the bank account number of the chart of accounts, related to the imported statement.

    Select transactions

    Start date, End date

    Insert the start and end dates of the period related to the transfer of the transactions. The period can also be selected automatically in the boxes under the dates area.

    Don't import if exists same ExternalReference, Date, Amount 

    If activated, this function allows the user to not import already entered transactions, in order to avoid recording transactions twice. This option can only be activated when the column "ExternalRef" is present in the transactions that are going to be imported. If not, this option will be deactivated.

    Complete the transactions with

    Autocomplete values

    The option is only necessary for accounting with VAT/Sales tax and multi-currency. If activated, it allows the automatic completion of values that are missing in the imported data (for example, the exchange rate in the exchange rate table).

    Initial document number

    This option is present when data of the bank account (or postal account) statement, or an account's income & expense transactions in a text format, are being imported. This is the document number assigned to the first imported transaction.

    Group transactions by invoice number

    If the import file contains values in the "DocInvoice" column, it is possible to indicate in the dialogue:

    • Group transactions by invoice number
      In this case, the rows of the same invoice are being grouped in such a way that there is only one transaction for the same account and the same VAT code. Please check the explanation Import invoice data.
       
    • Destination account for balance differences
      When VAT codes are being applied, there may be rounding differences of just a few cents.
      In this case, Banana creates an additional transaction for every invoice into which this difference can be recorded.
      Of course, it is necessary to pay attention that the data to be imported obtain a balance between debit and credit. If not, the transaction row will contain the difference between debit and credit. 

    Edit the imported transactions

    The program creates some transactions and adds them to the Transactons table.
    Transactions can be edited or deleted.
    In a double-entry accounting file, the program adds some symbols in the Debit/Account and Credit/Accounts columns, where in an income and expenses file, the program adds them in the Account and Category columns.

    Symbols should be replaced with the appropriate account or category.

    • [A]
      This symbol is indicated when no account has been indicated in the dialog.
      You need to replace the [A] with the appropriate bank account.
      [CA]
    • When ths symbol appears, you need to replace it with the appropriate contra-account, so that the Credit transactions will be balanced with the Debit transactions.

    In rows with only one contra-account, you will find both the [A] and the [CA] symbols in the same row.
    In rows with multiple contra-accounts, each row will have its own [CA] symbol. Without the [CA] symbol, it would be impossible to understand if the transactions is a Debit or Credit one.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    I see don't see the format for the bank statement of my bank
    Click on "Manage apps...", followed by "Update apps" and enable the filter for the desired format.

    I see don't see the format for the Xml account statement of the Postfinance (file .tgz)
    This format is no longer supported. Please contact the Postfinance and ask to receive the statements in ISO 20022 format.

    The following message appears 'This ISO 20022 file doesn't contain a bank statement (camt.052/053/054)'
    This error message is being displayed when the ISO 20022 file doesn't contain a bank statement. The ISO 20022 format is a generic format that can contain different types of information, like the bank statement and the payment confirmations In Banana Accounting, only the bank statements can be imported (camt.052/053/054).

    My bank is not in the list of supported formats
    It is possible to create apps for formats that have not yet been implemented. We have also paid support available for the implementation of customized formats.

    I can only import collective orders and I cannot see the details (the individual orders)
    When executing a payment in the e-banking (for example in the Raiffeisen bank), you need to choose the option 'individual order' instead of the 'collective order' Only by doing so you will be then be able to import the payments as individual orders.


     

    Import ISO 20022 file

    ISO 20022 is an international standard for the transmission of financial data.
    The CAMT category regroups the formats used for the account statement, reporting of account transactions and account balance confirmation:

    • camt052: Account Reporting
    • camt053 (including version 4): Account Statement
    • camt054: Credit / Debit Notification

    Preview the ISO-20022 file

    Banana. offers the possibility to preview contents of a camt file.

    Data importing into the current accounting

    Proceed as indicated with the Import into accounting ( Account1 menu) command.
    Compressed files can also be opened with this function. In this case, the program will prompt the user to select the file from which to import the data of the compressed file.

    Technical notes on converting ISO 20022 files

    The ISO 20022 standard encodes the accounting data of the bank statement very precisely. Nevertheless, it leaves some discretion for the insertion of additional information about the account and its transactions.
    Banana, when reading the file, tries to adapt itself to the ways in which the ISO 20022 file has been prearranged.
    • Reads as opening balance the similar encodings
    • Reads as closing balance the similar encodings
    • All contents are read and converted into transactions
      • Transaction date (Date)
      • Valuta date
      • Transaction amount (positive or negative)
      • Description (Banana - for now - displays the various descriptions as a single text)
        In the future, it will be possible to extract this information on a distinctive basis and indicate the columns where to allocate data.
      • Distinction of transactions between one single and detailed lines.
        For transactions that are to be detailed, there will be a row for the sum and separate rows for the singular transactions that will constitute the total.

    National Specificities

    Each country and/or bank has the possibility to insert additional information in the ISO 20022 file according to its needs. Banana Accounting offers a generic filter distributed with the application and multiple country- and/or bank-specific filters distributed as BananaApp. To import this additional information into your accounting, you must install and use the filter that is most specific to your country and/or bank.

     

    Import data from a Cash book file

    When managing your accounting work, it is possible to manage the cashbook separately and regularly import the transactions in the main accounting file, grouped according to a selected period.

    In this case there are two separate files: a file containing all the data of the general accounting, and a second file containing only the data Cash book management. In order to be able to import data from the Cash book file into the main accounting file, those files need to be linked. This can take place in two different ways:

    • Attribute to the categories of the cashbook file the same account numbers (for Double-entry accounting), or, the same category numbers (for Income & Expense accounting) as the ones used in the main accounting file.
    • In the cashbook file, in the Category2 column of the Categories table, enter the same account numbers as the main accounting file (if double-entry accounting) or the same categories numbers (if Income & Expense accounting). If the Category2 column isn't visible, you  need to enable it by selecting the Columns setup command from the Data menu, and double clicking on Category2.

    Example:
    In this example, the account numbers referring to the main accounting file have been entered in the Category2 column.  

    In order to import the data, do as follows:

    • open the main accounting file and choose the Import to accounting command from the Account1 menu
    • in the dialogue window that appears, select Transactions from the Import drop-down menu; then, click on Cash book transactions (*.ac2) and with the Browse button, select the cash book file.

    You can find the explanations of this window at the Import to accounting page

    In accounting

    Destination account

    You have to select the account number (Double-entry or Income & Expense Accounting) to which the data will be carried over.

    Initial document number

    This is the document number given to the transactions carried over.

    Select transactions

    Start date / End date

    These drop-down menus specify the start and end dates of the period to which the imported data refer.

    Group Transactions

    In this section the user specifies, by activating the different options, how the transactions of the period must be grouped:

    • No period grouping
      All the rows are being imported, with the related contents of the columns. The Doc number of the Cash book account is also being imported. If, in the main accounting, you wish to use a different number and at the same time keep the document number of the Cash book, enter the document number in the DocProtocol column of the Cash book.
    • Monthly - transactions are grouped by month
    • Quarterly - transactions are grouped by quarter
    • By semester - transactions are grouped by semester
    • Yearly - transactions are grouped per year

    One transaction per account

    If more than one category is grouped on a single account but the user needs separate transactions for each category, this cell must be activated; then the program will create transactions for each category. When VAT codes are used, transactions will be created not only by category, but also for each different VAT code in the same category.

    Note:
    When the user is working on an accounting file with VAT, the calculations of the VAT may result slightly different. If the transaction amounts have been inserted as net amounts, the balance of the cash account may also be different because of rounding differences.

    The accounting file is updated with the data of the Cash book.

     

    Import accounts

    This command imports the accounts from a Double-entry or Income & Expenses file (*.ac2) or a text file (*.txt), and integrates them automatically in the existing Chart of accounts.

    The accounts or the categories can be carried forward to the existing accounting through activating the following options:

    Options

    Include Cost Centers
    When there are cost centers, these will also be carried forward.

    Add new accounts
    When this option is activated, all new accounts are added to the accounting plan.

    Replace text description
    If already existing accounts are imported, but with different descriptions, the existing descriptions are replaced by the imported ones when this option is activated.

    Replace opening balance
    If already existing accounts are imported with different opening balances, the existing opening balances are replaced by the imported ones when this option is activated.

     

    Import VAT codes

    This function is only available in the Accounting with VAT management, and allows the user to import VAT codes from:

    • Other accounting files (*.ac2)
    • A text file with column headers (text file *.txt)

    In order to import VAT Codes, please proceed as follows:

    • From the Account1 menu choose the Import into accounting command
    • Select VAT Codes
    • Select Switzerland: New VAT Rates 2018 - in the lower field the file containing the new VAT Codes 2018 will be automatically shown
    • Confirm by clicking on OK

    The following dialog window will follow:

    Add new codes and new groupes

    If this option is checked, the new codes and new VAT groups will be added, without eliminating the ones that are presently in the VAT codes table.

    Replace all rows

    If this option is checked the existing VAT codes table will be replaced by the one containted in the source file indicated,

    Warning

    If, after the import, you receive the error message VAT account not found, you need to select the VAT according to VAT report account in the VAT/Sales tax section of the File and accounting properties (File menu).

    Update VAT Codes for Switzerland

    See the pages for Switzerland in French, German or Italian.

     

    Import file

    This feature allows you to import data from another Banana accounting file (with ac2 extension) of the same type.
     
    It is being used when you go from one chart of accounts to another one and when a conversion of the account numbers is necessary.
     
    For more information about the conversion of the chart of accounts, see the page on the accounting data migration to the new accounting plans.
     

    Source file

    This is the file from the which the data are being taken.

    Destination file

    The file that "receives" the data.

    Options

    Import transactions

    All the rows of the Transactions table, present in the source file, will be imported.

    Import recurring transactions

    All the rows of the Recurring Transactions table, present in the source file, will be imported

    Import budget transactions

    All the rows of the Budget table, present in the source file, will be imported.

    Replace amounts in Account table

    The amounts of the Opening, Budget and Previous columns of the Accounts table of the destination file are being deleted and replaced with the amounts that are present in the source file.

    The accounts need to correspond, thanks to the same account numbers, or when there is a replacement, in that case the option "Convert account numbers" should be used.

    Replace accounting properties (basic data)

    The File and accounting properties of the destination file will be replaced by the ones of the source file.

    Convert account numbers

    Using this function, the imported account numbers will be replaced with those indicated in the alternative column.
    If you use this function, you must also specify the column that contains the account numbers to be used in the import instead of the existing ones.
    Next to the account number column, there should be a column that indicates the alternative number to be used when importing. If no alternative number is specified, the original account number of the source file will be used.

    • The account matches are in the source file
      This option is to be used when for example you keep an accounting file in a country, with a specific number system, and then you need to regularly import your transactions in a different accounting file, that uses a chart of accounts with a different numbering system.
      • You need to add a new text column in the accounting plan (Columns setup command)
      • For each account, indicate the destination account number in the tabel.
    • The account matches are in the destination file
      This option is used when for example you want to switch to a chart of accounts with a new numbering and grouping
      • You create a new accounting file with the new chart of accounts.
      • In the chart of accounts, you create a new column where you indicate the account matches (Columns setup command).
      • In this column, indicate the account numbers of the source file.
        Separate the accounts with a semi-colon "1000;1001" to indicate that several accounts need to be grouped into this account.
    • Column containing the account matches (Accounts table)
      Indicate a column of the chart of accounts that has been added by the user and that contains the account matches.
       

    Results and possible errors

    The program will have carried forward all the data of the previous accounting, converting the account numbers.

    In case the program indicates errors (absence of accounts or other), it might very well be necessary to cancel the import operation, complete the account matches and repeat the import operation.

    The program, finding different charts of accounts, cannot automatically execute extended check-ups to make sure that all the data have been imported and grouped correctly.

    It is therefore advised to check the result manually, verifying that the totals of the Balance sheet and the Profit and Loss statement are indeed correct.

    Advanced import options

    For different and more complex and automated conversion needs, we suggest to use the scripts, that allow a total customization of the conversion and the import.

     

    Import exchange rates

    This option is only present in Double-entry accounting with multi-currencies.
    The characteristics are the same as the ones of the Import transactions function.

    It lets the user import the exchange rates from:

    • Exchange rate table of another file or Exchange rate history file (*.ac2)
    • Text file with the column heading (text file *.txt).

    Note: Exchange rate history files only show the Foreign exchange rate table and keep a record of past exchange rates.

    Das Transferkonto

    Das Transferkonto (auch Interimskonto, Durchlaufkonto oder Geldtransitkonto genannt) ist ein Zwischenkonto oder Hilfskonto. Buchungen werden auf diesem lediglich für eine bestimmte Zeit „geparkt“. Es wird insbesondere in den folgenden Fällen eingesetzt:

    • Erfassung von MwSt/USt-Selbstauferlegung und Rückforderung der Vorsteuer (Bezugssteuer auf Dienstleistungen aus dem Ausland).
    • Import von Kassenbuch- oder Kreditkartendaten in die Hauptbuchhaltungsdatei.
    • Buchen von den von der Bank belasteten Nettolöhnen bis zur vollständigen Erfassung der Bruttogehälter mit den verschiedentlichen monatlichen Abzügen.

    Verwendung des Transferkontos beim Import

    Wenn Bewegungen einer Kreditkarte, einer separaten Kassendatei oder andere Datei importiert werden, wird das Transferkonto benutzt, um Überschneidungen mit bereits ausgeführten Transaktionen zu vermeiden.

    Bei Einzahlungen vom Bank- (oder Postkonto) auf die Kreditkarte oder Kassendatei, welche separat von der Hauptbuchhaltungsdatei ist, muss in beiden Dateien registriert werden:

    • In der Datei der Kasse oder Kreditkarte wird der Geldeingang gebucht (die Kasse oder das Kreditkartenkonto nimmt zu).
    • In der Hauptbuchhaltungsdatei wird der Ausgang vom Bank- oder Postkonto und die Erhöhung der Kasse oder Kreditkarte gebucht.

    Beim Importieren von Kassen- oder Kreditkartendaten in die Buchhaltungshauptdatei, können Überschneidungen der Datensätzen erfolgen, welche zu falschen Salden führen.

    Um dieses Problem zu lösen, ist ein Transferkonto als Gegenkonto zu verwenden. Dies gilt für die Erfassung der Auszahlung der Bank (Hauptbuchhaltung) als auch der Bareinlage in die Kasse (separate Kassendatei).

    Mit dem Import der Kassen-Bewegungen in die Hauptbuchhaltung, gleicht sich das Transferkonto aus bzw. geht auf Null:

    • Die aus der Kassen- oder Kreditkartendatei importierten Daten befinden sich auf der Soll-Seite des Transferkontos.
    • Die bereits registrierten Einlagen-Bewegungen mit Belastung auf dem Bank- oder Postkonto, befinden sich auf dem Transferkonto auf der Haben-Seite.

    Weitere Details zum Import mit Transferkonto finden Sie auf der Webseite Daten aus der Kasse importieren.

    Import transactions from Paypal

    On the page web filter for PayPal transactions you will find the information about the new feature that makes it possible to import all the Paypal transactions directly into Banana Accounting and the instructions on how to proceed (see below).

    We have also prepared specific predefined templates for double-entry or multi-currency accounting that you can look at as an example or use as a separate accounting file just for the accounting transactions from Paypal.

    More information about all types of import filters can be found on the Import filters page.

    Learn more

    Import rows

    In order to import the rows, click on the Import Rows command of the Data menu.

    Activate the options of your choice in the following window:

    File name
    Using the Browse button, select the file from which to extract the data. By clicking on the OK button, confirm the options selected.

    Format
    This area contains the list of formats with which it is possible to import the data to the table. These include: ASCII format, Text, CSV.

    Options

    Import data from clipboard
    By selecting this box, the user can import data from the Windows clipboard.

    Autocomplete values
    It is advisable to select this function when it is necessary to import rows from a less complex accounting file into a more complex one. In this case, in the imported rows, some columns will stay blank. By selecting this function, the program will automatically complete the missing values with those from the current accounting.

    Fields header 
    By selecting this box, not only data, but field headers will be included in the import.

    Unicode (Utf-8)
    By selecting this box, all the data will be imported in a format readable by Unicode programs.

    Transferring data from other software

    New import extensions

    In the new version Banana Accounting Plus, you will find new extensions for importing data from SmartBusiness and also files in .zip format.
    We advise you to switch now to Banana Accounting Plus and take advantage of the many new features.

    Recurring data importing from other programs

    It can often happen to be regularly needing to import data from other programs.

    For example:

    • in order to import monthly transaction from your salaries software
    • in order to import the invoices issued with a invoicing software
    • in order to import the payments made with your invoicing software
    • in order to import your sales transactions from your online shop
    • in order to import data from another accounting software
    • in order to import data from another cashbook management software (for example a restaurants or a hotel).

    In these cases you can proceed in two different ways:

    • make sure that your application exports the data in a txt file format specifically set to be imported in Banana.
      For more information please consult the technical information on how to create a file to be imported in Banana;
    • create an import script that will transform data exported from another program so that they can be imported in Banana; depending on the installed import filters (see the Manage filters page), many formats can be available. See also how to create filters (Banana App)

    One time data importing from other programs

    If you are starting to work with Banana for the first time and you need to import your data from another software, you can easily transfer data from any accounting program, passing through MS-Excel.

    1. With your old accounting software, export the data in a format that can be read by Excel (CSV, txt, ...)
    2. Open the exported file with Excel
    3. In Excel, organize the data (columns) in the same order as they appear in the Banana tables (Accounts, Transactions)
    4. Open your new accounting file in Banana
    5. In the Accounts or Transactions table, add as many empty rows as there are rows to transfer from Excel.
    6. In Excel, select the data to be copied and use the Copy command
    7. Go in Banana and execute the Paste command.

    This method is useful to transfer data from MS-Money, Intuit Quicken and Quickbooks, and from most other accounting programs.

    Developers, please also see our webpage Import data.

     

     

    Export

    With Banana accounting you can export in different formats, either the data of a single table of the whole file:

    Export rows
    Choose the Export rows command from the Data menu in order to export the content of a single table.
    If you select some rows before launching the command, then the Export selection only option will be activated.

    Export file
    Chose the Export file command from the File menu in order to export more than one table. In the dialog windows that appears you will find the following tabs:

    • Specific tabs of the exporting format
    • Include tab, to define the tables and the reports that must be included in the export
    • Period (Accounting) tab, to define the period
    • VAT tab (in the accounting files with VAT management)
    • Composition tab

    Export formats
    There are different formats available, each with its own specific options:

    • Pdf
      This format allows to export all accounting file content in a unique pdf file.
    • Excel
      This format allows to create Excel spread sheets, comparisons, budgets, index calculations, Balance Sheet analysis, charts directly linked to accounting values.
    • HTML
      With this format the data and accounting statements can be easily accessed with an Internet browser (Explorer, Mozilla, Opera).
      This format fully complies with the legal requirements related to long-term archiving of accounting data.
    • XML
      This format is the standard used for exchanging data. The accounting data can be easily read and reused with other programs or with XSLT style sheets.
    • Export rows in TXT
      This format allows to export the table rows in a text format.

    Export in Excel

    Export selection only
    When activating this option, the program exports only the selected area.

    File Name
    In this area it is necessary to insert the name of the new file that the program will create to export the data. If, however, an existing file is selected by using the Browse button, the program will overwrite it with the new data.

    Display file immediately
    As soon as the MS Excel file has been created, the software to view it will be launched. In this way, the result of the export can be seen immediately.

    Options

    Create cell names
    This option will automatically give a name to each cell as the file is exported. For example, the cell that contains the balance for account 1000 will receive the name: "Accounts_1000_Balance" in Excel. This means the user can univocally identify each cell independently from its position on the sheet and thus create Excel reports that don't have to be corrected if the account plan is changed. The user thus saves having to manually carry forward any accounting data to Excel. However, inserting the names of the cells does slow down the opening of the Excel file.

    Create table names
    With this option, the program will automatically give a name to the whole area of the cells belonging to a table, at the moment the file is exported. For example, the area formed by the cells belonging to the Accounts table will be identified by the name DB_Accounts. This option is necessary if, when creating reports in Excel, database functions are used.

    Use names Xml (English)
    The cell names can either be defined in their original accounting language, or with their English name. In the original language, the names will be understandable to someone who speaks that language, but they will not be universally understood like a name in English would be. By selecting this option the user would have, for example, "Accounts_1000_Balance" instead of "Conti_1000_Saldo".

    Protect tables
    The entire content of cells is locked when selecting this option so that it is only possible to edit the format. This prevents the possibility of making any unintentional changes to the exported data. The user can remove this protection at any time by using the appropriate command in Excel.

    Export selection only
    If this cell if activated, only the selected area is exported.

    Other Tabs

    For the explanations of the other tabs, please visit the following pages:


    Export result

    Each accounting table is displayed in a different sheet in the Excel file

    Use the cell names instead of the row/column references:

    • The names return the desired value even when a new row or column is being entered.
    • The names are easy to use and understand
      "Accounts_1000_Balance" refers to the balance of the 1000 account
      "Accounts_1000_Description" returns the value of the cell that contains the description of the 1000 account
    • The names can be used in the formulas
      "=Accounts_1000_Balance" returns the value of the cell that contains the balance of the 1000 account
      "=Accounts_1000_Balance/1000" divides the balance of the 1000 account by 1000
    • By using the names, it is possible to create links to various files.

    A link to a cell is being composed of:

    • File name
    • Table name
    • Cell name

     

    Include Tab

    Recheck accounting
    By ticking this box, the accounting will be rechecked before it is exported.

    Include

    By ticking the different boxes, the user can export in MS Excel Xml the various tables and/or all the account cards and the VAT/Sales tax Report.

    View
    It is possible to select the view where the data are to be imported. This option is available for the export in PDF, Html and Xml format.

    Periods

    This function lets the user export the accounting data subdivided by period.

    Accounts/Categories by period
    This option allows to export the accounts and categories balances according to the selected period.

    VAT/Sales tax report
    This option allows to export the VAT/Sales tax report according to the selected period.

    Create periods for the whole year
    By selecting this function, the partial balances for the whole year will be exported, and not only the ones of the specified accounting period or the selected export period.

    Max number of periods
    The maximum possible number of periods.

    Export in Html

    File Name

    In this area, the user must insert the name of the new Html file that the program will create to export the data. If however the user selects an existing file through the Browse button, the program will overwrite it with the new data.

    Display file immediately

    As soon as the Html file has been created, the software to view it will be launched. In this way, the result of the export can be seen immediately. It is best to remember that browsers like Mozilla and MS Explorer use a cache mechanism for files. When the export is made for a second time, it is possible that the user will see the previous version until the browser Reload button is pressed.

    File creation options

    Headers 1, 2 and 3

    These are the file headers.

    Other Tabs

    For the explanations of the other tabs, please visit the following pages:

     

    Html Options Tab

    Use style sheet CSS

    Selecting this cell will allow the user to connect a style sheet to the exported file. By default the program will automatically use its own style sheets and incorporate it into the document.

    Use predefined style sheet

    The program's default style sheet will be used.
    Deactivating the cell will automatically activate the External style sheet option. The user can then select the name of a personal style sheet.

    External style sheet

    File name

    In case an external style sheet is being used, select the file name of the style sheet with the Browse button.

    Include style sheet within html file

    When data is sent in Html format, the style sheet file must also be sent. To avoid sending two separate files the user can incorporate the style sheet to the Html accounting file by activating this cell.

    Selecting the cells will allow the program to file the data with various graphic options:

    • Export visible columns only
    • Table with border
    • Columns with headers
    • Preserve page breaks within the table
      If there are page breaks on the original accounting file, these will be carried over in the export as well.
    • Export as data - data will be exported without any formatting

    Export in Xml

    File Name
    In this area it is necessary to insert the name of the new file that the program will create to export the data. If, however, an existing file is selected by using the Browse button, the program will overwrite it with the new data.

    Display file immediately
    As soon as the file has been created, the software to view it will be launched. In this way, the result of the export can be seen immediately.

    Style sheet XSLT
    In this area, the user can select the style sheet according to which the program should organize the graphic display of the accounting data. Thanks to the style sheets, the user can input his/her own data and conform to the print-outs required by the authorities. On the www.banana.ch various examples and further information on style sheets are available.

    Options

    It is possible to choose between the following options:

    • Export visible columns only
    • Include view list

    Export selection only
    If this option is activated, only the selected area will be exported.

    Other Tabs

    For the explanations of the other tabs, please visit the following pages:

    Export rows in txt

    In order to export rows, please select the Export rows command from the Data menu. Different options are available:

    File name
    Enter the file name or select an existing one using the Browse button

    Format
    Select the desired format.

    Display file immediately
    As soon as the file has been created, the software to view it will be launched. In this way, the result of the export can be seen immediately. Please notice that browsers such as Mozilla or MS-Explorer have a documents cache mechanism. It is then possible that, when exporting a second time, you will still see the previous version if you don't use the Refresh browser's button.

    Options

    If activated, different options will allow the export of:

    • selected rows only
    • visible columns only
    • columns header
    • unicode (Utf-8)

    Save

    This window is shown when you need to create a PDF file, export in Html or Excel format, or copy into the clipboard.

    File Name
    In this area it is necessary to insert the name of the new file that the program will create to export the data. If, however, an existing file is selected by using the Browse button, the program will overwrite it with the new data.

    Display file immediately
    As soon as the file has been created, the software to view it will be launched. In this way, the result of the export can be seen immediately.

     

    Documents table

    The new Documents table allows you to include texts, images (including a logo) or programming codes (scripts) into your accounting file.
    This table is normally automatically created when attaching some documents to the Balance sheet, using the Account1 - Balance sheet command or the Account1 - Balance sheet with groups command -> Attachments section.

    You can also add the table to your accounting file using the command Tools -> Add new functionalities.

    The Documents table has the following columns:

    • Id column
      This is the document's name.
      Documents beginning with the "_" sign have specific meanings.
      • "_budget.js"
        You can enter specific functions created for the Budget table.
    • Description
      A short file description (optional)
    • Attachments
      Contains the file.
      If you click on the cell, an icon will appear to add or edit the file content.

    Logo on the invoice or on the print

    Some invoice templates are already set to resume a possible logo uploaded in the documents table.
    To add the image:
    • Add a new row
    • In the Id column, write logo; write the word in lower case
    • In the Description column, you can write a desired text
    • In the Attachment column, double-click on the cell, or select the Edit symbol, select the type of Image document and select the picture you want to insert in the printout.

    You can also add other images, to be used in customized templates.

    HTML Editor

     

    Adding the ${...} field

    The ${...} field allows the user to add dynamic text to the document, for instance an account's balance or a Banana table. The Banana API interface is available at the following web address https://www.banana.ch/doc9/en/node/4714
    The command can be added manually or through the command Edit - Add script

    Printing the current balance of account  1020

    ${Banana.Converter.toLocaleNumberFormat(Banana.document.currentBalance('1020','','').balance);}
    

    Output of the Accounts table, columns:  Account, Group, Description, Balance (command not yet available)

    ${HTML Banana.document.table("Accounts").toHtml(['Account','Group','Description','Balance'],true);}
    

    It is possible to write the javascript code in a separate document and include the script through the command Banana.include.
    The scripts can be saved in the Documents table or in a local file.

    ${Banana.include("documents:myscript1");rtnValue}
    ${Banana.include("c://temp//myscript16.js");rtnValue}
    

     

    Adding a page break

    The command can be added manually or through the comand Edit - Add page break

    Text in the first page
    ${PAGEBREAK}
    Text in the second page

    The command ${PAGEBREAK} is not yet available, the current command to add a page break is:
    <!--pagebreak-->

     

    Printouts/preview

    Print everything you see on the screen

    In addition to the various reports available, Banana Accounting allows you to print everything you see on the screen, in any table.
    You can simply use the Print command from the File menu.

    print everything you see on screen

    Print preview

    All the printouts of the various accounting documents can be saved in PDF, HTML, MS Excel and copied to the Clipboard, allowing the user to also access them many years later.

    • Selected cells only.
      When you have a selection of cells in the table, the preview displays only the selected cells.
      Remove the selection to preview the entire table.

    Print

    The button pulls up the Printer Setup window from Windows. The selections are only valid for the current working session. Permanent alterations need to be input using the Windows control panel.

    Horizontal or vertical printing needs to be input under Page Setup and is only valid for each view.

    • Print selected cells only.
      If more than one cell is selected in the table, the choice "Selection" is active, to print only the selected cells.

    Exporting in other formats

    Printouts can be exported in different formats:

    • Pdf
      The print format.
    • Html
      Pages that you can open with your internet browser.
    • Excel
      The data is not really exported to Excel, but the file is exported in html format, with the extension .xls.
      Excel indicates that the data is not in Excel format, but opens the file anyway and also takes some, but unfortunately not all, formatting.
    • Latex
      Presentation format.
    • Copy in the clipboard
      All the report is copied to the clipboard, so you can paste it into Excel or other programs.

       

    Accounting printouts

    You can find information on specific printouts for the different accounting types at the following pages:

     

    Page numbering

    You can access the page numbering feature by clicking on the icon on the Print Preview toolbar.

    In this dialog box are set the options for page numbering. The printing of the page number is enabled or disabled by using the settings of page setup or report.

    Start with
    The starting number for page numbering.

    Add prefix
    The prefix to insert to the page numbering.

    Page setup

    Allows to define the Printing properties.
    Each View of the table has its own own print setting. The name of the view is indicated in the dialogue title.

    Header left

    This is where the title for the current view is shown. The title can be edited to appear at the top left of the printed page.

    Header right

    It is possible to enter a different text that will be printed at the top right-hand side of the page.

    Logo

    Press the Change button on the right and then select Add, as we also explain in the Setup a logo page; add your own logo.
    Back to the Page setup window, choose Logo instead of none.

    Margins

    It is possible to input the page margins here: Left, Right, Top, Bottom. Measurements are in centimeters.

    Shrink page to printable area

    This function makes it possible to adapt the printable area when the print goes past the earlier defined page margins.

    Include in print

    When these functions are being activated, they allow to display the following data:

    File Headers

    This is the text that is being entered in the File and Accounting properties found in the File menu.

    Page Headers

    The page header will also be included in the printout.

    Table Name

    The table header (f.i. Accounts, Transactions, etc.) is also being included in the printout.

    Column headers

    These are the headers for the various table columns.

    Large font

    The program prints the headers using a slightly larger font.

    Page break

    When activated, this option maintains the entered page breaks; if not, they will be ignored, even if they are present.

    Page numbers

    Activate this option to request that the pages be numbered.

    Print time

    Activate this option to include the hour when the page was printed.

    Print date

    Activate this option to include the date when the page was printed.

    Row number

    Activate this option if a progressive number is to be given to each row.

    Grid

    The grid can be printed just as it is viewed on screen.

    Layout

    The program automatically adapts the page dimension.

    Font size %

    This allows the increase or decrease, on a percentage basis, of the size of the font to be printed.

    Reduce to page width

    If some columns exceed the width of the page, the program reduces the columns or reduces the zoom so that all the columns will be printed correctly on the page.

    As on screen

    The print-out will be carried out exactly as presented on the screen.

    In case the contents goes past the page dimension:

    • If the option "Reduce to page width" is being activated, the font size will be reduced;
    • If the option "Reduce to page width" is not being activated, the part that goes past the paper will not be printed.

    Print black and white

    All colors will be converted in grey scales.

    Print landscape

    To print in landscape format which makes the page read horizontal.

    Period

    This tab appears in many dialogs (for example the Account card) and can specify the period to be show or to be calculated.
    If for example a quarter is selected: in the account card only the transactions of the selected quarter will be shown, and in the balance sheet only the results for the selected quarter will be calculated.

    All
    If this option is selected, the entire accounting period is included.

    Period selected
    If a specified period is desired, indicate the start and end dates.

     

    Transactions with no date
    If there are transactions with no date, they will be considered only if you chose the whole period (All...)
    If however you enter the initial and final dates January 1sr and December 31, the transactions with no date will not be included in the report.