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IMAGERUN.TXT
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1994-12-05
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Image::Runner(tm)
-------------------
developers' pcx display utility for DOS applications
a product of RCCO Research
Capabilities
-------------
Image::Runner(tm) is basically a simple utility that allows DOS executable
applications to display a developer- or enduser-designed VGA .pcx file from
anywhere within the application. It is provided in form of a small,
efficient, fast .exe meant to be called with the system command processor in
the host application. Image::Runner will display 640x480x16 VGA pcx images
that may contain static graphs, artwork, or other graphic objects needed in
an application.
While it has always been possible to execute other programs from within an
application that will display such images, Image::Runner provides advantages
for the commercial developer in that, upon payment of a very nominal regis-
tration fee ($24.95), it may included and distributed with multiple applica-
tions legally and without further license, restriction, or payment of runtime
royalties.
Image::Runner may be called multiple times from within an application and
adds little overhead to the executable sequence. The called pcx image
displays until the end-user presses a key, then returns quickly and
efficiently to the calling program.
Image::Runner may be used with most traditional MS-DOS language executables,
including those created with CA-Clipper, Borland Turbo Pascal, QuickBASIC,
PowerBasic, Visual Basic(tm) for DOS, dBase, Clarion, C, etc. It is very
small, very efficient, and executes cleanly and quickly from within any DOS
program; its small file size (about 30k, not compressed) provides for
minimal space usage on distribution disks and is non-obtrusive and very
discrete to the end-user as to its purpose. (An attempt by an end-user to
execute '_i_.exe' without knowledge of the proper command line parameter will
yield nothing other than an exit back to the DOS prompt.)
Image::Runner image displays will run under both DOS and Windows. The
chief advantages, aside from the displays themselves, are both low cost and
method of acquiring. The copy included herewith is a fully-functional
evaluation copy available easily and universally through the user-supported
software marketplace.
IRDemo.exe and the sample files
--------------------------------
To run the demonstration files included in this package (IRDEMO.EXE and 2
sample pcx files), copy all pertinent files (including _I_.EXE) to a direc-
tory on the hard disk (or a ram drive), and simply execute
IRDEMO <enter>
from the DOS prompt. IRDEMO is a C language program that will call the
Image::Runner utility (ie, _i_.exe) twice using the system() function;
other languages will call a similar instruction (see below).
For tolerable viewing results, do not run the demo from a floppy drive.
Preparation of images
----------------------
Image::Runner is particularly effective for software developers preparing
static graphs, artwork, or other images for their applications, in that they
can easily capture usable materials with programs like Hijaak(tm) for Windows
and modify or create them in editing programs such as Windows(tm) Paintbrush.
Image names may also be selected by the end-user via a menu selection and
passed to to the calling sequence with the appropriate string.
The only requirement is that images must be finally saved in 640x480 16-
color VGA .pcx file format. If you are doing image preparation in Windows,
you will have to load a 16-color video driver for 640x480 VGA in order to
prepare proper images. This format is used since it is the most universal
that will allow presentations to be viewed on as many DOS and/or Windows
VGA systems as possible. Do not build your images with 256 or more colors
as they will not display with Image::Runner. The end-user should then
be able to properly display using any VGA card and driver with 16 or more
colors; it is only during the preparation and saving of .pcx images that you
must use a 640x480x16 driver.
We have observed excellent, consistent results with using a program such as
Hijaak(tm) for Windows to capture entire DOS or Windows screens, or selected
areas of screens, or a particular window on a full Windows screen. The pre-
parer then does final editing, adding text, drawing lines or other objects,
in a drawing program. For example, the two sample pcx images provided with
this package were done entirely in the program that comes free with Win-
dows(tm) 3.1: Paintbrush. The inset picture in _ADMIN1.PCX was captured
from a black and white line drawing with a hand scanner and edited in Paint-
brush.
Other graphics programs are likely to provide compatible material, but they
must be tried on a test basis with Image::Runner. The two programs mentioned
above work well for most users, are widely available, and do not require
great technical or artistic ability. Scanned images will be effective in
Image::Runner if they are saved in the proper format. If one format you are
using seems not workable, try saving that image in another program, such as
Windows Paintbrush; we have often found that certain images work better when
converted or simply saved in another program's format even though they may
use the same .pcx extension.
When attempting to use monochrome pcx files, resave them as 16-color
640x480 VGA pcx files. Even though the appearance may remain the same,
they will be saved in a format usable by Image::Runner.
Once you find the right combination of steps to produce pcx file formats
consistently usable by Image::Runner, you will save a great deal of time
and effort by always using that combination in future applications.
Running Image::Runner from with your application
-------------------------------------------------
The basic requirement is that the image files and the related executables be
placed in the same directory on a hard drive. You should advise end-users
against running your application from a floppy diskette, due to the slowness
of building the on-screen image when reading from a diskette.
Your end-users will certainly need VGA graphics capabilities to view your
images. If a user attempts execution on a non-VGA-capable system, a simple
screen will display the message
╔════════════════════════════════════════╗
║ ║
║ Image display requires VGA graphics. ║
║ (640x480x16) ║
║ ║
╚════════════════════════════════════════╝
and return to the calling program after a 2-second delay.
The calling sequence for all languages will consist of the traditional
instruction for utilizing the command processor from within the program
plus an indication of the command line parameters:
_i_ x.pcx
where '_i_' indicates the _I_.EXE Image::Runner utility, and 'x.pcx'
is the full filename (including extension) of the 640x480x16 pcx image
you wish to display. The image will not display without specifying the
.pcx extension.
You need not specify a clearscreen before or after the image display; a
clearscreen is automatic with an Image::Runner call. Therefore, it may be
desirable to save and restore (or recreate) the screen existing at the time
of the call. Also, if the non-VGA text screen is displayed (see above),
please note that the text cursor is momentarily turned off and then turned
on again as the screen exits; if, by chance, your program was originally
executing with the text cursor turned off, you may need to turn it off
again upon reentry.
Specific languages example calls
---------------------------------
The following examples provide typical calls to display a 640x480x16 pcx
image from within a program.
QuickBASIC, PowerBasic, Visual Basic for DOS
---------------------------------------------
RUN "_I_ X.PCX"
dBase and Clipper S '87
------------------------
RUN _I_ X.PCX
CA-Clipper
-----------
run _i_ x.pcx
// may also be overlayed with Blinker's
// SwpRunCmd("_i_ x.pcx")
// although this may be overkill for a simple
// utility such as Image::Runner.
Clarion
--------
OPEN(SCREEN)
RUN('_I_ X.PCX')
CLOSE(SCREEN)
RETURN
Turbo Pascal
-------------
This is one suggestion for Turbo Pascal use; most Pascal developers will
have their own preferred method of executing a DOS program from within an
application.
{$M $8192,0,0 } { stacks spec, used by drun procedure }
uses crt, dos;
procedure drun(what : string);
begin
swapvectors;
exec(getenv('COMSPEC'), '/C ' + what);
swapvectors;
if DosError <> 0 then
WriteLn('Could not execute COMMAND.COM');
WriteLn;
end;
{ call the image display within the program: }
drun('_I_ X.PCX');
C programs
-----------
Although there are several excellent ways to call DOS processes,
including the many variants of SPAWN and EXEC, we provide herewith
the simple and direct use of the system() function.
#include <process.h> /* or stdlib.h */
...
system("_I_ X.PCX");
(The sample demo program included in this package uses the system()
function.)
Other development environments will have equivalent methods for executing
a DOS executable program via the command processor; consult the appropriate
reference manual for specific procedures.
Batch files
------------
@echo off
_i_ x.pcx
From the DOS system prompt
---------------------------
C:\DIR\_i_ x.pcx <enter>
In all instances, the calling of '_i_.exe' and the resulting image display
do not require a great deal of memory and therefore generally may be used
in a typical 640k DOS memory environment.
Troubleshooting
----------------
The only caveat we might offer with this program is that if you find that
your images do not display, or do not display properly, it is probably
because they have been created or saved in a format that may only be
slightly incompatible with that which Image::Runner requires. Before
you decide that the Image::Runner program is not usable in such instances,
try the suggestion given before for re-saving your .pcx files in another
graphics program. Most image-editing programs will read files in several
formats, and often allow conversions, or perhaps will save them in a later
.pcx format that will work with applications such as Image::Runner.
Also, make certain that images are saved in 640x480 by 16-color format by
using the proper software and/or video drivers to handle the format.
Program Requirements
---------------------
The requirements for running Image::Runner include a DOS-compatible PC
with 512k memory, VGA graphics capability, and a hard drive. DOS 3.1 (or
later) or Windows 3.x (or later) should be utilized.
The Unregistered Evaluation Copy
---------------------------------
The unregistered version of this program is intended for use in evaluation
situations. It may be used for ninety (90) days within your own organ-
ization by persons that have knowledge and understanding of the fact that
this is an unregistered evaluation copy.
The payment of the $24.95 purchase price for a registered copy of this
program will allow license for a single user to make use of the program for
purposes that are traditionally accepted for software utilities of this
type. Additional site license fees of $10.00 per user may be paid at the
time of registration, or any time in the future after initial registration
at the then current license fee in effect. There are no runtime royalties
involved in the distribution of your materials utilizing a duly registered
copy of Image::Runner.
The license and authorized registration shall not be construed as being
in effect until direct payment has been received by RCCO Research and an
authorized, registered copy has been sent in the registered user's/users'
name(s).
The Registered Version of Image::Runner
--------------------------------------------
The registered copy performs the same execution as the evaluation copy, only
without the unregistered copy delay at the close of the VGA display.
Documentation for the registered version is an on-disk text file, similar to
the present format.
Licensing Information
----------------------
This program is licensed and supplied as is, without any warranty. To the
extent permitted under applicable law, RCCO Research Associates disclaims
all warranties, either expressed or implied, with respect to this software
program, its quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for any
particular purpose.
In particular, this software program is not guaranteed to prevent or detect
damage to your data or programs. In no event shall RCCO Research Associates
be liable for any claims for lost profits or any damage, including, but not
limited to, special, incidental, consequential or other damage (including,
without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interrup-
tion, loss of business information, or other pecuniary loss) arising out of
the use of or inability to use this RCCO Research Associates product, even
if RCCO Research Associates has been advised of the possibility of such
damages. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental
or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply
to you. In no case shall RCCO Research Associates's liability exceed the
license fees paid for the right to use the licensed version of the software.
The license agreement and warranty shall be construed, interpreted and
governed by the laws of the state of Tennessee.
This software program is protected under the Copyright Laws of the United
States of America and all applicable International Copyright Conventions.
Makers and/or users of illegal or unauthorized copies of the registered
version are subject to prosecution under these laws.
The name Image::Runner(tm) is a trademark of RCCO Research Associates.
Windows(tm) is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Registration Notes
-------------------
Registration will obtain a copy of the most recent authorized version and
provide legal authorization for continued use of the program after the
ninety-day (90-day) evaluation period.
To obtain a registered copy, you must mail an advance-payment registration
fee of U.S. $24.95 + $2.55 shipping/handling ($7.05 non-U.S. shipping/
handling, $4.05 for Canada) directly to RCCO Research. Payment is to be
made by check or money order only, please. We require payment with order so
that prices and fees may be kept as reasonable as possible; this policy has
worked well for us in recent years, as we observe increased registration on
products that are reasonably priced. For telephone and credit card orders,
see Additional Ordering Options note below.
An invoice will be included with your order, showing the registered serial
number(s) applicable to the purchase. We can provide a pro forma invoice
to those corporations or institutions that require same before payment can
be issued; shipment will be made promptly upon receipt of payment. Prices
and/or registration and/or license fees are subject to change.
Tennessee clients please include the required 8.5% sales tax on both the
product amount and shipping/handling as mandated by the state.
International clients must pay by check or money order in U.S. dollars, drawn
on a U.S. bank or the U.S. branch of an international bank. Please realize
that international postal money orders are considerably delayed through the
postal systems and may not be the most expedient way of relaying payment. An
often-used form of payment consists of obtaining a dollar-denominated money
order from the local American Express office which you may then airmail to
us along with your order.
Please indicate program name and current version number on your order; you
may use the Order.frm file provided on the disk (or the program directory)
or simply send a note or letter with your name, organization name, address,
program name & version, number of users being licensed, and remittance.
Your comments on our programs are welcomed.
Additional Ordering Options:
----------------------------------------------------------------------
CREDIT CARD ORDERS ONLY -
You may order a registered copy of this RCCO Research program
with MC, Visa, Amex, or Discover from PsL, Public (software)
Library of Houston, Texas by calling 800-242-4775 or 713-524-6394,
or by FAX to 713-524-6398, or by CompuServe E-mail to 71355,470.
You may also mail credit card orders to PsL at P.O. Box 35705,
Houston, TX 77235-5705. PsL's item/product number for Image::Runner
is #11623.
THE ABOVE NUMBERS ARE FOR ORDERS ONLY.
Any questions about the status of the shipment of the order,
registration options, product details, technical support, volume
discounts, dealer pricing, site licenses, etc. must be directed in
writing to RCCO Research, P.O. Box 196, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. To
ensure that you get the fastest possible delivery of your registered
copy, PsL will notify us the day of your order and we will ship the
materials directly to you. There are no additional fees for ordering
by credit card.
Your credit card number is *not* transmitted to RCCO Research, but
rather is processed by PsL as part of their software registration
ordering service.
The above service is made available as a convenience to client
individuals who feel comfortable with ordering by telephone and
with a credit card. Established concerns may prefer to order
directly from RCCO Research with the company's own business check.
Please realize that we pay PsL for the service, and that you should
not make non-order calls to them about RCCO Research products, as
indicated above. PsL cannot answer non-order inquiries.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Information
-----------------------
If you have any comments regarding this program after (or with) registra-
tion, please send them in writing to:
RCCO Research Associates
P. O. Box 196
Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (U.S.A.)
Please include your phone (day & evening) and fax (if any) numbers as well
as your mailing address and CompuServe number / Internet address (if any) on
ALL written communications. Please indicate the serial number from your copy
of the program as well as your CustID number.
Image::Runner(tm)
------------------
developers' pcx display utility for DOS applications
(C) Copyright 1994 RCCO Research Associates
All Rights Reserved under International Conventions
Product of U.S.A.
RCCO Research Associates
Post Office Box 196
Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738
┌─────────────────────────────────┐
│ RCCO Research Associates │
│ Technical Publishers, Est. 1965 │
└─────────────────────────────────┘