Question

(Check Protection) Computers are frequently employed in check-writing systems, such as payroll and accounts payable applications. There are many strange stories about weekly paychecks being printed (by mistake) for amounts in excess of $\mathrm{\$}1$ million. Incorrect amounts are printed by computerized check- writing systems because of human error or machine failure. Systems designers build controls into their systems to prevent such erroneous checks from being issued. Another serious problem is the intentional alteration of a check amount by someone who plans to cash a check fraudulently. To prevent a dollar amount from being altered, some computerized check-writing systems employ a technique called check protection. Checks designed for imprinting by computer contain a fixed number of spaces in which the computer may print an amount. Suppose a paycheck contains eight blank spaces in which the computer is supposed to print the amount of a weekly paycheck. If the amount is large, then all eight of the spaces will be filled. For example, 1,230.60 (check amount) 12345678 (position numbers) On the other hand, if the amount is less than $\mathrm{\$}1000$, then several of the spaces would ordinarily be left blank. For example, 99.87 \-------- 12345678 contains three blank spaces. If a check is printed with blank spaces, it is easier for someone to alter the amount of the check. To prevent a check from being altered, many check-writing systems insert leading asterisks to protect the amount as follows: ***99.87 \-------- 12345678 Write an application that inputs a dollar amount to be printed on a check, then prints the amount in check-protected format with leading asterisks if necessary. Assume that nine spaces are available for printing the amount.

Short answer

Format the dollar amount with leading asterisks so its length is nine characters.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Problem

The task is to take a dollar amount for a check and format it such that it has leading asterisks if the amount has fewer than nine total characters, including the decimal and cents. This serves to protect the check against alterations.

Input the Dollar Amount

Take the dollar amount from the user as input. Ensure this is a valid monetary value including at least a decimal and two digits for the cents (e.g., 1234.56).

Convert the Amount to String

Convert the input dollar amount to a string. This makes it easier to calculate its length and manipulate it by adding characters if necessary.

Calculate Remaining Spaces

Find out how many characters short the dollar amount is from nine characters by using the formula:$$\text{needed\_characters}=9-\text{length of the dollar amount string}$$

Add Leading Asterisks

If the `needed_characters` is greater than zero, create a string with that many asterisks. Concatenate this string in front of the dollar amount string. If the length of the dollar amount string is already nine or more, no asterisks are needed.

Output the Formatted Check Amount

Print the final formatted string, which should now have the dollar amount with leading asterisks such that the total length is nine characters.

Key concepts

computerized check-writing systems

Computerized check-writing systems have revolutionized the way checks are processed and printed. These systems are commonly used in various financial applications such as payroll and accounts payable. They enable computers to automatically fill out checks, reducing human error and speeding up the financial documentation process.
However, despite their efficiency, errors can still occur due to machine glitches or incorrect input data. To mitigate these issues, system designers implement various controls to ensure the accuracy and security of printed checks.
These systems deal with various challenges such as ensuring the correct amount is printed, preventing unauthorized alterations, and maintaining the integrity of the financial transactions.

check alteration prevention

When it comes to financial transactions, check alteration is a significant concern. If a check is left with any blank spaces when printed, it can become susceptible to tampering. This is where automated systems step in to enhance security.
Check alteration prevention techniques focus on ensuring that the amounts cannot be easily modified after printing. One such method involves padding the check amount with leading characters, such as asterisks. By doing so, any unused spaces are effectively filled, preventing anyone from adding extra digits to the check amount.
This simple yet effective strategy ensures that checks are safeguarded against fraudulent activities, maintaining reliability in financial dealings.

formatted check printing

Formatted check printing involves producing checks in a manner that adheres to specific formatting rules. Automated systems ensure that every check is consistent and presents no security vulnerabilities.
For example, in a classic formatted check printing challenge, if the whole amount, including the dollar, cents, and formatting characters, doesn't fill the designated space, leading asterisks are used. This fills in any voids, aligning the printed output with predefined standards.
Such meticulous formatting helps in easily identifying inconsistencies or suspicious alterations, thereby enhancing the payment's security and authenticity.

programming assignment

Programming assignments, such as creating applications for check protected formats, are essential exercises for aspiring developers. They not only enhance coding skills but also underline the importance of understanding real-world applications. In creating an application for check protection, developers must consider user inputs, string manipulation, and output formatting.

• User Inputs: Ensuring the entry is a valid dollar amount.
• String Manipulation: Calculate the existing length and determine if leading asterisks are needed.
• Output Formatting: Format and print the check with the correct number of total characters.

Through such projects, programmers learn how to safeguard financial documents against fraud and utilize logical thinking to solve complex real-world problems.