Copyright: Copyright © 1998 GST Technology Ltd
Citation: Copyright © 1998 GST Technology Ltd


A bar that appears at the bottom and/or right-hand edge of a window, whose contents are not entirely visible.


A list of available commands and actions in PowerText.

Menu names are displayed in the menu bar near the top of the PowerText window.


A temporary holding place for a picture that has been cut or copied.


A window used to supply information to PowerText.

When a dialog box is displayed, all interaction with PowerText must be through the dialog box.


Part of a structure for organising your files on a disk. A folder can contain files and other folders called subfolders.


A file stored on hard or floppy disk, or other media.


A key, or key combination, you press to carry out a command or action.

If a menu command has a keyboard shortcut, the key combination is listed to the right of the command name in the menu.


To save a picture to the Clipboard without removing it from the PowerText window, so it can be transferred to another location.


To insert the contents of the Clipboard into PowerText.


The horizontal bar displaying the names of PowerText menus.

It is displayed below the title bar.


You are in Text Control when any text tab above the preview window is selected. All the tabs to the right of the preview window are text related.


A standard windows menu displayed by clicking on the icon at the top left of a window. By using Control-menu commands you can restore, move, size, minimise, maximise and close the window.


This is used in PowerText to mean the style of type, for example Sans, Serif, or Courier.

Elsewhere this may be called a typeface, with the term font reserved for a particular weight, size and style of typeface.


An area where files and folders are stored. This could be a floppy disk drive, a CD-ROM drive, your hard disk drive or a network drive.


A small box with up and down arrows on its right-hand side, which allow you to increase or decrease the value in the box.

You can also type directly into the box.


A fill style which is made up of two colours that blend into each other.


The line on which the text sits. The option to change the baseline only occurs with certain text effects.


You are in Shape Control when a shape tab above the preview window is selected. All the tabs to the right of the preview window are shape related.


You are in 3D Text Control when a 3D text tab above the preview window is selected. All the tabs to the right of the preview window are 3D text related.


A dialog box from which you can choose from a wide range of layers to insert into your PowerText effect. The individual layers you can choose from are 2D text, 3D text and Shape. You can also choose from a selection of predefined PowerText effects, or any PowerText effects you have created and saved yourself.


An automatically updating window in which you can view your PowerText effect and all the changes you make to it. Layers can be moved, resized and rotated in the preview window, using frames.


A set of colours available to PowerText.


A box, or similar shape, you can drag to change the effect of the control, e.g. to change the degree of brightness or the tint of a colour from a colour palette.


A ball you can drag to change the direction of 3D text or its lighting.


These are what your PowerText effects are made up of. You can have layers of 2D text, 3D text and Shapes.


These are white circles that have a black dot inside them when they are selected.


You are in 2D Text Control when a 2D text tab above the preview window is selected. All the tabs to the right of the preview window are 2D text related.


To change the position of a text or shape layer, in relation to other layers.


To save your PowerText effect using a different file format, so it can be used in other programs.


To insert a picture as an additional layer, which can be edited within PowerText.


A page whose width is greater than its height.

Compare with Portrait.


A page whose height is greater than its width.

Compare with Landscape.


A bar at the foot of the PowerText window giving hints and tips as you work.


Text which is either moulded to fit a shape, or distorted within a shape.

On the Effect tab, in the Choose an Effect box, warped text effects appear as white text on a black background.


Working with PowerText


Using the preview window

The preview window has many useful functions as well as displaying a preview of your PowerText effect. You can:

Select and drag an effect to a different position

Resize an effect using the Resize handles

Rotate a text effect using the Rotate handles


Changing the position of an effect
To change the position of an effect

1.	In the preview window, click on the effect you want to move. Four handles appear around the effect, showing it is selected and the mouse pointer changes to a four-headed arrow.

2.	Holding down the mouse button, drag the effect to its new position in the preview window.

3.	Release the mouse button.

Note:

The size of your effect may change so it remains within the preview window.

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Resizing and effect
To resize an effect

1.	In the preview window, click on the effect you want to resize. Four handles appear around the effect, showing it is selected.

2.	Position the mouse pointer over one of the four handles. The mouse pointer changes to a two-headed arrow.

3.	Press and hold down the left mouse button.

4.	Drag the two-headed arrow until the PowerText effect is the size you want.

5.	Release the mouse button.

Note:

The position of your effect may change so it remains within the preview window.

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Rotating a text effect
To rotate a text effect

1.	In the preview window, click on the text effect you want to rotate. The rotate handle appears in the centre of the selected effect.

2.	Position the mouse pointer over the rotate handle. The mouse pointer changes to a circular arrow.

3.	Press and hold down the left mouse button.

4.	Drag the circular arrow until the text effect is at the angle you want.

5.	Release the mouse button.

Note:

Hold down Ctrl as you rotate the frame to constrain the angle of rotation to multiples of 45 degrees.

Hold down Shift as you rotate the frame to constrain the angle of rotation to multiples of 5 degrees.

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Creating a new PowerText effect
To create a new PowerText effect

This menu command is only available if you are running PowerText as a standalone application.

If you are already working on a PowerText effect:

1.	From the File menu, select New. The PowerText Gallery appears.

If your PowerText effect contains any unsaved changes, a message box appears to let you save the unsaved changes before creating a new effect.

2.	In the Name box, type the path to the folder where the PowerText effect you want is stored.

3.	Select the layer or PowerText effect you want to use.

4.	Click on New. The PowerText Gallery closes and the selected PowerText effect appears in the preview window, ready for you to begin work.

Note:

If you can’t remember the path, click on the Modify View button and select Folder tree from the menu to display the drives and folders available.

Selecting Save from the File menu displays the Save As dialog box as a new PowerText effect is opened as Untitled.

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Opening an existing PowerText effect
To open an existing PowerText effect

This menu command is only available if you are running PowerText as a standalone application.

1.	From the File menu, select Open. The PowerText Gallery appears.

If your current PowerText effect contains any unsaved changes, a message box appears to let you save your changes before opening a different effect.

2.	In the Name box, type the path to the folder where the PowerText effect is stored.

3.	Select the PowerText effect you want to open.

4.	Click on Open. The PowerText Gallery closes and the PowerText effect opens in the preview window, ready for you to begin work.

Note:

If you can’t remember the path, use the folder tree to navigate through the drives and folders available. To make the folder tree appear, click on the arrow next to the Modify View button and select Folder tree from the popup menu. This command is checked if the folder tree is visible.

You can also open a recently used image by selecting its filename from the File menu.

Selecting Save from the File menu will overwrite the current effect.

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To save a PowerText effect

1.	From the File menu, select Save As. The Save As dialog box appears.

2.	Select the disk drive and folder where you want to save the PowerText effect to.

3.	In the File name text box, type a name for your PowerText effect.

4.	Click on Save. The PowerText effect is saved to a file of that name in the selected folder and the filename appears in the title bar.

Note:

If you are running PowerText from within a host application you have the option to save a copy of your PowerText effect to disk.

You can also save a PowerText effect by selecting Save from the File menu.

If you have created a new PowerText effect, selecting Save from the File menu displays the Save As dialog box as new PowerText effects are opened as Untitled.

If you have opened a PowerText effect, selecting Save from the File menu will overwrite the current effect.

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To export a PowerText effect

1.	From the File menu, select Export. The Export PowerText dialog box appears.

2.	In the File name text box, type a name for the PowerText effect.

3.	Select the disk drive and folder you want to export the PowerText effect to.

4.	From the Save as type drop-down list box, select a format for your PowerText effect.

5.	From the Resolution drop-down list box, select a resolution for your PowerText effect.

6.	Click on Export. The PowerText effect is exported to the selected folder, in the chosen format and resolution.

Note:

Only .PTX files can be opened and fully edited in PowerText.

If you only have limited disk space, select a low resolution before trying to export, to ensure the export is successful.

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To set up your printer

1.	From the File menu, select Print Setup. The Print Setup dialog box appears.

2.	From the Name drop-down list box, select the printer you want to set up.

3.	In the Paper group box, specify the paper size you are using in the Size drop-down list box.

4.	From the Source drop-down list box, select the paper source.

5.	In the Orientation group box, choose whether you want the page to print as portrait or landscape by clicking on one of the radio buttons.

6.	Click on Properties to display a dialog box providing various settings for the selected printer. The options in this dialog box vary, depending on the printer you have selected. It is usually in this dialog box that you set, for example, graphics quality.

7.	Select the appropriate options from this dialog box.

8.	Click on OK to confirm the new settings and return to the Print Setup dialog box.

9.	Click on OK to make the printer you have just set up the current printer.

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To print a PowerText effect

1.	From the File menu, select Print. The Print dialog box appears.

2.	In the Printer group box, choose whether to print to file, or to the selected printer, by checking or clearing the Print to file check box.

3.	In the Number of copies spin box, specify the number of copies you want to print.

4.	Click on Properties to display a dialog box providing various settings for the selected printer. The options in this dialog box vary, depending on the printer you have selected. It is usually in this dialog box that you set, for example, graphics quality.

5.	Select the appropriate options from this dialog box.

6.	Click on OK to confirm the new settings and return to the Print dialog box.

7.	Click on OK. The PowerText effect is sent to the printer as you specified and a box appears to report the progress of the print job. To abandon printing, click on Cancel on this box.

Note:

The Preserve aspect ratio check box is checked by default to make sure the height and width of the PowerText effect remain proportionate to each other when the PowerText effect is printed.

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Exiting PowerText 3D
To exit PowerText 3D

Do any of the following:

From the File menu, select Exit.

Click on the Close button in the top right-hand corner of the PowerText window.

From the PowerText Control-menu, select Close.

Double-click on the PowerText Control-menu icon.

Note:

If you are running PowerText as a standalone application and your PowerText effect contains any unsaved changes, a message box appears enabling you to save the unsaved changes before exiting.

If you are running PowerText from within a host application, selecting Exit from the File menu will return you to your document in the host application.

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Working with layers


Inserting a layer
To insert a layer

1.	Click on the Insert from Gallery button. The PowerText Gallery appears.

2.	Select the layer you want to insert.

3.	Click on Insert. The selected layer appears in the preview window and the controls for the layer you inserted are displayed, ready for you to begin work.

Note:

If you can’t remember the path, use the folder tree to navigate through the drives and folders available. To make the folder tree appear, click on the arrow next to the Modify View button and select Folder tree from the popup menu. This command is checked if the folder tree is visible.

You can also insert a standard text or shape layer via the Edit menu, which can then be edited.

The maximum number of layers you can have in your PowerText effect is 25. After this, the Insert from Gallery button becomes disabled.

Tools:

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Inserting a 2D text layer
To insert a 2D text layer

1.	From the Edit menu, select Insert Layer. The Insert Layer submenu appears.

2.	From the Insert Layer submenu, select 2D text layer. A 2D text layer appears in the preview window and you are now in 2D Text Control, ready for you to begin work.

Note:

You can have up to 25 layers in a PowerText effect.

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Inserting a 3D text layer
To insert a 3D text layer

1.	From the Edit menu, select Insert Layer. The Insert Layer submenu appears.

2.	From the Insert Layer submenu, select 3D text layer. A 3D text layer appears in the preview window and you are now in 3D Text Control, ready for you to begin work.

Note:

You can have up to 25 layers in a PowerText effect.

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Inserting a shape layer
To insert a shape layer

1.	From the Edit menu, select Insert Layer. The Insert Layer submenu appears.

2.	From the Insert Layer submenu, select Shape layer. A shape layer appears in the preview window and you are now in Shape Control, ready for you to begin work.

Note:

You can have up to 25 layers in a PowerText effect.

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Deleting a layer
To delete layers

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the layer you want to delete.

2.	From the Edit menu, select Delete Layer. The layer is deleted from the PowerText effect.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

You can also delete a layer by clicking on the Delete button.

To delete all layers, select Delete All Layers from the Edit menu.

Tools:

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Changing the position of a layer
To change the position of a layer

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the layer you want to move.

2.	To move the selected layer forward one layer, click on the Move layer forward button.

3.	To move the selected layer back one layer, click on the Move layer back button.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

If you move a 2D text layer which is linked to a shape layer, both layers are moved.

Tools:

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To insert a picture

1.	From the Edit menu, select Insert Picture. PictureBrowser opens on your desktop.

2.	In the Name box, type the path of the folder where the picture you want to insert is stored.

3.	From the Files of type drop-down list box, select the file type of the picture you want to insert. Previews of all the available pictures of that type in the selected folder appear in the preview window.

4.	Select the picture you want to insert.

5.	Click on OK. The picture is inserted into PowerText as a new Shape layer.

Note:

If you can’t remember the path, use the folder tree to navigate through the drives and folders available. To make the folder tree appear, click on the arrow next to the Modify View button and select Folder tree from the popup menu. This command is checked if the folder tree is visible.

You can also insert a picture by dragging it from its original location and dropping it anywhere on the PowerText window.

The maximum number of layers you can have in your PowerText effect is 25. After this, the Insert from Gallery button becomes disabled.

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Working with Text


Entering text
To enter text

1.	If you do not have a text layer, insert a 2D or 3D text layer;

2.	From above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

3.	Delete the default text from the Text box.

4.	Type in your text.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

You can have up to 10 lines of text in a layer.

You can have up to 50 characters in a line of text.

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Changing the font
To change the font

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Font tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	From the Font list box, select a font. The text now appears in the preview window in the selected font.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The font names are displayed in their respective fonts.

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Changing the font size
To change the font size

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Font tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Size spin box, type the point size you want your text to be. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

You can also change the size of the font by using the up and down arrows on the Size spin box.

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Changing the alignment of text
To change the alignment of text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Font tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	Click on one of the Position tools. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

Tools:

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Changing the style of text
To change the style of text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Font tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	Click on one of the Style tools. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

Tools:

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Changing the way text sits on the baseline
To change the way text sits on the baseline

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Font tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	Click on one of the Baseline tools. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The option to change the way text sits on the baseline only occurs with certain text effects.

Tools:

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Skewing text
To skew text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Font tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Skew spin box, type the angle you want to skew your text at. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

You can also change the angle by using the up and down arrows on the Skew spin box, or by dragging the radius of the Skew circle to the angle you want.

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Changing the letter spacing
To change the letter spacing

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Spacing tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Letter Spacing group box, click on one of the Letter Spacing tools. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

Finer adjustments can be made using the Percentage spin box, either by typing a percentage in, or by using the up and down arrows on the spin box.

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Changing the line spacing
To change the line spacing

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Spacing tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Line Spacing group box, click on one of the Line Spacing tools. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

Finer adjustments can be made using the Percentage spin box, either by typing a percentage in, or by using the up and down arrows on the spin box.

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Overlapping text
To overlap text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Spacing tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Letter Spacing group box, click on the Overlap tool.

4.	In the Overlap group box, click on one of the radio buttons to select an overlapping style.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

3D text cannot be overlapped.

Tools:

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Changing the text effect
To change the text effect

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the text layer you want to work with. You are now in Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Effect tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	From the Choose an Effect box, select an effect. Use the scroll bar along the bottom to view the range of effects available.

4.	In the Degree Of Effect group box, drag the slider to create the degree of distortion you want. The pictures at each end of the slider indicate the possible effect on your text layer of reducing/increasing the distortion of the text effect.

Note:

The Degree Of Effect slider is only available for certain text effects.

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

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Working with 2D text


Changing the outline of 2D text
To change the outline of 2D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 2D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 2D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Colour tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Outline group box, select an outline from the list box. Use the scroll bar along the side to view the range of outlines available.

4.	From the drop-down colour palette, select a colour.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

You can adjust the tint of a colour by dragging the tint slider.

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Changing the fill style of 2D text
To change the fill style of 2D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 2D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 2D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Colour tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Fill group box, select a fill style from the list box. Use the scroll bar along the side to view the range of fill styles available.

4.	From the drop-down colour palette, select a colour. The selected style and colour are applied to the text in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

If you select a graduated fill style, two drop-down colour palettes appear. The top palette is the ‘from’ colour and the bottom palette is the ‘to’ colour.

You can adjust the tint of a colour by dragging the tint slider.

With the LINEAR, LOGARITHMIC and CYLINDRICAL fill styles you have the option of changing the direction of the graduation by dragging the arrow in the preview box.

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Adding a shadow to 2D text
To add a shadow to 2D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 2D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 2D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Shadow tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	Click on one of the radio buttons to select a shadow type. The selected shadow type is applied to the text in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

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Changing the position of a 2D text shadow
To change the position of a 2D text shadow

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 2D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 2D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Shadow tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Direction spin box, type the angle you want the shadow to be at.

4.	Depending on which shadow type you have selected, do one of the following:

Drag the Offset slider to change how offset the shadow is from the text

Drag the Length slider to change the length of the shadow.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

You can also change the direction by using the up and down arrows on the Direction spin box, or by dragging the radius of the Direction circle to the angle you want.

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Changing the colour of a 2D text shadow
To change the colour of a 2D text shadow

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 2D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 2D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Shadow tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Outline group box, select an outline from the drop-down list box. Use the scroll bar along the side to view the range of outlines available.

4.	From the drop-down colour palette, select a colour.

5.	In the Fill group box, select a fill style from the drop-down list box. Use the scroll bar along the side to view the range of fill styles available.

6.	From the drop-down colour palette, select a colour.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

If you select a graduated fill style, two drop-down colour palettes appear. The top palette is the ‘from’ colour and the bottom palette is the ‘to’ colour.

You can adjust the tint of a colour by dragging the tint slider.

With the LINEAR, LOGARITHMIC and CYLINDRICAL fill styles you have the option of changing the direction of the graduation by dragging the arrow in the preview box.

  Related Topics


Rotating 2D text
To rotate 2D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 2D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 2D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Rotate tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Rotate group box, type the angle you want the text to be at in the degrees spin box. The text is rotated accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

You can also change the angle by using the up and down arrows on the Rotate spin box, or by dragging the radius of the Rotate circle to the angle you want.

Use the Rotate tools to change the angle by 45 or 90 degrees in either direction.

You can also rotate 2D text by clicking and dragging on the rotate circle within the 2D text’s frame. A greyed-out image of the text appears, to help you rotate the text accurately.

If the 2D text is linked to a shape, the shape is also rotated to fit the text.

Tools:

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Flipping 2D text
To flip 2D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 2D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 2D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Rotate tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Flip group box, click on one of the Flip tools. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

If the 2D text is linked to a shape, the shape is also flipped to fit the text.

Tools:

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Changing the position of 2D text
To change the position of 2D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 2D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 2D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Rotate tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Nudge group box, click on the arrows to change the position of the text in relation to other layers. The position of the text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

To return the 2D text to its default position, click on the Centre button.

The position of 2D text cannot be changed if there is only one PowerText layer.

You can also move 2D text by clicking and holding down the left mouse button within the 2D text’s frame and dragging the 2D text to a new position. Dragging against the edge of the preview window scrolls the display to reveal a wider area.

Layers are scaled to make sure they appear within the preview window. This is to make the program easier to use and does not affect the actual size and position of your layers.

Tools:

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Resizing 2D text
To resize 2D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 2D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 2D Text Control.

2.	Position the mouse pointer over one of the frame handles. The mouse pointer changes to a two-headed arrow.

3.	Press and hold down the left mouse button.

4.	Drag the arrow until the frame is the size you want. Dragging against the edge of the preview window scrolls the display to reveal a wider area.

5.	Release the mouse button. The 2D text is now resized.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

If the 2D text is linked to a shape, the shape is also resized to fit the text.

  Related Topics


Working with Shapes


Changing a shape
To change a shape

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the Shape layer you want to work with. You are now in Shape Control.

2.	Make sure the Shape tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Choose a Shape group box, click on the shape you want.

4.	Check the Link to text layer check box if you want to link the shape to the 2D text layer immediately in front. A padlock appears on the tab for the shape layer, indicating the shape is linked and cannot be moved or resized independently of the text layer it is linked to.

5.	If you select a star shape, the Properties group box is activated:

In the No. Of Points spin box, type the number of points you want the star to have, or use the up and down arrows on the spin box to select the number.

Check the Text Inside check box if you want to display any linked text inside the shape.

Check the Inner Points check box to add inner points to the star.

Use the slider to expand or shrink the star. The pictures at each end of the slider indicate the possible effect on the star of expanding or shrinking it.

Note:

If you link a shape to warped text, a new shape appears in the Choose a Shape group box, to let you make the shape fit the warped text effect.

Click on the padlock to display a message box, to let you unlink the shape from a 2D text layer.

You cannot link a shape to a 3D text layer.

A shape can only be linked to one 2D text layer.

  Related Topics


Changing the colour of a shape
To change the colour of a shape

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the Shape layer you want to work with. You are now in Shape Control.

2.	Make sure the Colour tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Outline group box, select an outline from the list box. Use the scroll bar along the side to view the range of outlines available.

4.	From the drop-down colour palette, select a colour.

5.	In the Fill group box, select a fill style from the list box. Use the scroll bar along the side to view the range of fill styles available.

6.	From the drop-down colour palette, select a colour.

Note:

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

If you select a graduated fill style, two drop-down colour palettes appear. The top palette is the ‘from’ colour and the bottom palette is the ‘to’ colour.

You can adjust the tint of a colour by dragging the tint slider.

With the LINEAR, LOGARITHMIC and CYLINDRICAL fill styles you have the option of changing the direction of the graduation by dragging the arrow in the preview box.

  Related Topics


Adding a shadow to a shape
To add a shadow to a shape

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the Shape layer you want to work with. You are now in Shape Control.

2.	Make sure the Shadow tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	Click on one of the radio buttons to select a shadow type. The selected shadow type is applied to your shape in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

  Related Topics


Changing the position of a shape's shadow
To change the position of a shape's shadow

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the Shape layer you want to work with. You are now in Shape Control.

2.	Make sure the Shadow tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Direction spin box, type the angle you want the shadow to be at.

4.	Depending on which shadow type you have selected, do one of the following:

Drag the Offset slider to change how offset the shadow is from the text

Drag the Length slider to change the length of the shadow.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

You can also change the direction by using the up and down arrows on the Direction spin box, or by dragging the radius on the Direction circle to the angle you want.

  Related Topics


Changing the colour of a shape's shadow
To change the colour of a shape's shadow

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the Shape layer you want to work with. You are now in Shape Control.

2.	Make sure the Shadow tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Outline group box, select an outline from the drop-down list box. Use the scroll bar along the side to view the range of outlines available.

4.	From the drop-down colour palette, select a colour.

5.	In the Fill group box, select a fill style from the drop-down list box. Use the scroll bar along the side to view the range of fill styles available.

6.	From the drop-down colour palette, select a colour.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

If you select a graduated fill style, two drop-down colour palettes appear. The top palette is the ‘from’ colour and the bottom palette is the ‘to’ colour.

You can adjust the tint of a colour by dragging the tint slider.

With the LINEAR, LOGARITHMIC and CYLINDRICAL fill styles you have the option of changing the direction of the graduation by dragging the arrow in the preview box.

  Related Topics


Rotating a shape
To rotate a shape

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the Shape layer you want to work with. You are now in Shape Control.

2.	Make sure the Rotate tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Rotate group box, type the angle you want the shape to be at in the Rotate spin box. The shape is rotated accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

Hold down Ctrl as you rotate the frame to constrain the angle of rotation to multiples of 45 degrees.

You can also change the angle by using the up and down arrows on the Rotate spin box, or by dragging the radius of the Rotate circle to the angle you want.

Use the Rotate tools to change the angle by 45 or 90 degrees in either direction.

You can also rotate a shape by dragging the rotate circle within the shape’s frame. A greyed-out image of the shape appears, to help you rotate the shape accurately.

To rotate a shape linked to a 2D text layer, rotate the text layer; the shape rotates with it.

Tools:

  Related Topics


Flipping a shape
To flip a shape

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the Shape layer you want to work with. You are now in Shape Control.

2.	Make sure the Rotate tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Flip group box, click on one of the Flip tools. The shape is changed accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

To flip a shape linked to a 2D text layer, flip the text layer; the shape flips with it.

Tools:

  Related Topics


Changing the position of a shape
To change the position of a shape

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the Shape layer you want to work with. You are now in Shape Control.

2.	Make sure the Rotate tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Nudge group box, click on the arrows to change the position of the shape in relation to other layers. The position of the shape changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

To return the shape to its default position, click on the Centre button.

The position of a shape cannot be changed if there is only one PowerText layer.

To move a shape linked to a 2D text layer, move the text layer; the shape moves with it.

You can also move a shape by clicking and holding down the left mouse button within the shape’s frame and dragging the shape to a new position. Dragging against the edge of the preview window scrolls the display, to reveal a wider area.

Layers are scaled to make sure they appear within the preview window. This is to make the program easier to use and does not affect the actual size and position of your layers.

Tools:

  Related Topics


Resizing a shape
To resize a shape

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the Shape layer you want to work with. You are now in Shape Control.

2.	Position the mouse pointer over one of the frame handles. The mouse pointer changes to a two-headed arrow.

3.	Press and hold down the left mouse button.

4.	Drag the arrow until the frame is the size you want. Dragging against the edge of the preview window scrolls the display to reveal a wider area.

5.	Release the mouse button. The shape is now resized.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

To resize a shape linked to a 2D text layer, resize the text layer; the shape resizes to fit the text.

  Related Topics


Working with 3D Text


Changing a 3D text effect
To change a 3D text effect

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 3D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 3D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the 3D Effects tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	From the 3D Effect box, select the effect you want to use. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

  Related Topics


Changing the character depth of 3D text
To change the character depth of 3D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 3D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 3D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the 3D Effects tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Character Depth group box, drag the slider to create the depth you want for your text. The pictures at each end of the slider indicate the possible effect on the text of decreasing or increasing the character depth.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

  Related Topics


Changing the texture of 3D text
To change the texture of 3D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 3D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 3D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the 3D Texture tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	From the Style list box, select the texture you want. Use the scroll bar along the bottom to view the range of textures available.

4.	In the Detail group box, drag the slider to adjust the detail of the texture. The pictures at each end of the slider indicate the possible effect on the text of increasing or decreasing the texture detail.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

  Related Topics


Changing the colour of 3D text
To change the colour of 3D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 3D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 3D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the 3D Lighting tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Text Colour group box, select a colour from the Colour drop-down palette.

4.	Drag the Brightness slider to determine how dim or bright you want the colour to be.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

You can adjust the tint of a colour by dragging the tint slider.

  Related Topics


Changing the spotlight on 3D text
To change the spotlight on 3D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 3D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 3D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the 3D Lighting tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Spotlight group box, select a colour from the Colour drop-down palette.

4.	Drag the Brightness slider to determine how dim or bright you want the light to be.

5.	Drag the Direction arcball to control the direction of the spotlight.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

The changes you make are shown in the preview window.

To return the direction of the spotlight to its default position, select the middle Spotlight tool.

Tools:

  Related Topics


Changing the orientation of 3D text
To change the orientation of 3D text

1.	Above the preview window, select the 3D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 3D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the 3D Orientation tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	Drag the Orientation arcball to control the orientation of the text. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

To return the text to its default position, click on the Home button.

  Related Topics


Changing the position of 3D text
To change the position of 3D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 3D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 3D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the Orientation tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	In the Nudge group box, click on the arrows to change the position of the text in relation to other layers. The position of the text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

To return the 3D text to its default position, click on the Centre button.

The position of 3D text cannot be changed if there is only one PowerText layer.

You can also move 3D text by clicking and holding down the left mouse button within the 3D text’s frame, and dragging the 3D text to a new position. Dragging against the edge of the preview window scrolls the display, to reveal a wider area.

Layers are scaled to make sure they appear within the preview window. This is designed to make the program easier to use and does not affect the actual size and position of your layers.

Tools:

  Related Topics


Resizing 3D text
To resize 3D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 3D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 3D Text Control.

2.	Position the mouse pointer over one of the frame handles. The mouse pointer changes to a two-headed arrow.

3.	Press and hold down the left mouse button.

4.	Drag the arrow until the frame is the size you want. Dragging against the edge of the preview window scrolls the display to reveal a wider area.

5.	Release the mouse button. The frame is now resized.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

  Related Topics


Changing the perspective of 3D text
To change the perspective of 3D text

1.	Above the preview window, click on the tab for the 3D text layer you want to work with. You are now in 3D Text Control.

2.	Make sure the 3D Orientation tab to the right of the preview window is selected.

3.	Drag the slider to determine how high or low you want the perspective to be. The pictures at each end of the slider indicate the possible effect on the text of lowering or raising the perspective. The text changes accordingly in the preview window.

Note:

If you can’t see the tab you need, use the left and right arrows to scroll through the tabs.

You can also select a layer by clicking on it in the preview window.

  Related Topics


Click on this to make your text bold.


Click on this to change your text to italics.


Click on this to toggle your text between small caps and lower case.


Click on this to direct the spotlight from the top left-hand corner. This is also the default spotlight position.


Click on this to rotate your 2D text or shape 45 degrees to the left.


Click on this to rotate your 2D text or shape 90 degrees to the left.


Click on this to align your text to the right.


Click on this to flip your 2D text or shape horizontally over a vertical axis.


Click on this to flip your 2D text or shape vertically over a horizontal axis.


Click on this to rotate your 2D text or shape 45 degrees to the right.


Click on this to rotate your 2D text or shape 90 degrees to the right.


Click on this to align your text to the left.


Click on this to direct the spotlight straight on to your text.


Click on this to justify your text.


Click on this to centre your text.


Click on this to stretch your text to fit its longest line.


Click on this to direct the spotlight from the top right-hand corner.


Click on this to skew the baseline of your text.


Click on this to rotate the baseline of your text.


Click on this to render the baseline of your text upright.


Click on the radio button to the left of this to select an overlapping style, where the letter on the left overlaps the letter on the right.


Click on the radio button to the left of this to select an overlapping style, where the letter on the right overlaps the letter on the left.


Click on this to display the PowerText Gallery, from which you can select an individual layer or a predefined PowerText effect to open and edit.


Click on this to delete the currently selected PowerText layer.


Click on this to move the selected layer in front of the layer that was previously in front of it.


Click on this to move the selected layer behind the layer that was previously behind it.


Click on the buttons to move the selected layer up, down, left, or right.


Click on this to return the selected layer to the centre of the preview window.


Solving common queries

This topic lists the most common questions asked of our technical support staff. Check the PowerText Help before contacting our technical support department for advice.

To find the answer to your question, click on the button next to the question.

Why is my PowerText effect taking so long to print?

Why won't my PowerText effect print?


If using certain printer drivers on Windows 95/98, printing graduated fill styles from PowerText creates very large printer spool files, resulting in a lengthy printing process.


Check your printer is connected to your computer, switched on, on-line and correctly set up on the Windows Control Panel. Make sure it has not run out of paper and then try to print again. If you are still unable to print, check you did not select an incompatible printer during the installation procedure.

If using certain printer drivers on Windows 95/98, printing graduated fill styles from PowerText creates very large printer spool files, which some printers cannot cope with.


Error messages

Most , if not all, of the PowerText error messages now have Help buttons. If a message box appears and you don't understand what it says, click on the Help button for an explanation of why the message has appeared, and what you should do to avoid it appearing in future.

The Help for some message boxes may advise you to contact our technical support department.


Main dialog box


Click on this to select the 3D text layer displayed and 3D text controls.


Click on this to select the 2D text layer displayed and 2D text controls.


Click on this to display the Shape tab and Shape controls.


Click on this to insert a layer from the PowerText Gallery.


Click on this to delete the current layer.


Displays your PowerText effect and any changes you make to it.


Type your text in here.


Click on this to move the selected layer forward one level.


Click on this to move the selected layer back one level.


Font tab


Click on this to display the Font tab, with which you can change the font, position, style and baseline of your text. With this tab you can also skew your text.


Displays the list of fonts available in their respective font styles. Use the scroll bar to view the range of fonts available.


Type directly into the Size spin box, or use the up and down arrows at the side to select a point size for your font.


Click on this to align your text to the left.


Click on this to justify your text.


Click on this to align your text to the right.


Click on this to centre your text.


Click on this to stretch each line of text to an equal length.


Click on this to rotate the baseline of your text.


Click on this to skew the baseline of your text.


Click on this to render your text upright on its baseline.


Skew your text by doing one of the following:

Typing directly into the Skew spin box

Using the up and down arrows on the side of the spin box

Dragging the radius of the Skew circle.


Click on this to toggle your text between small caps and lower case.


Click on this to change your text to italics.


Click on this to make your text bold.


Spacing tab


Click on this to display the Spacing tab, with which you can change the letter and line spacing of your text.


Click on this to select loose letter spacing.


Click on this to select normal letter spacing.


Click on this to select tight letter spacing.


Click on this to select overlapping letter spacing.


Type directly into the percentage spin box, or use the up and down arrows on the side of the spin box to further adjust the letter spacing.


Click on this to select double line spacing.


Click on this to select loose line spacing.


Click on this to select normal line spacing.


Click on this to select tight line spacing.


Type directly into the percentage spin box, or use the up and down arrows on the side of the spin box to further adjust the line spacing.


Click on the radio button to select an overlapping style, where the letter on the left overlaps the letter on the right.


Click on the radio button to select an overlapping style, where the letter on the right overlaps the letter on the left.


Colour tab


Click on this to display the Colour tab, with which you can change the colour of your 2D text or shape. With this tab you can also change the outline and fill style of your 2D text or shape.


Use this list box to select the outline of your 2D text or shape. Use the scroll bar to view the range of outlines available.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the outline colour of your 2D text or shape. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Use this list box to select the fill style of your 2D text or shape. Use the scroll bar to view the range of fill styles available.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the fill style colour of your 2D text or shape. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Displays a pictorial representation of the currently selected graduated fill style. If you have selected LOGARITHMIC, CYLINDRICAL or LINEAR, you can drag the arrow to change the direction of the colour blend.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the ‘from’ colour of your 2D text or shape fill style. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the ‘to’ colour of your 2D text or shape fill style. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Effect tab


Click on this to display the Effect tab, with which you can change your text effect and its degree of distortion.


Displays the text effects available. Use the scroll bar at the bottom of the box to view the range of effects available.


Displays a picture of the effect that reducing the amount of distortion on your text effect would have.


Displays a picture of the effect that increasing the amount of distortion on your text effect would have.


Drag the slider to left to reduce the degree of distortion on your text effect. Drag the slider to the right to increase the degree of distortion on your text effect.


Shadow tab


Click on this to display the Shadow tab, with which you can add a shadow to your 2D text or shape. With this tab you can also change the position, style, and colour of the shadow.


Click on this to have no shadow for your 2D text or shape.


Click on this to select a Drop Shadow for your 2D text or shape.


Click on this to select a Skew Shadow for your 2D text or shape.


Change the direction of the shadow by doing one of the following:

Typing directly into the Direction spin box

Using the up and down arrows on the side of the spin box

Dragging the radius of the Direction circle.


Drag the slider to change the distance / length of the 2D text or shape shadow.


Click on the arrow to display the Outline drop-down list box, from which you can select an outline for your 2D text or shape shadow. Use the scroll bar to view the range of outlines available.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the outline colour of your 2D text or shape shadow. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Click on the arrow to display the Fill drop-down list box, from which you can select a fill style for your 2D text or shape shadow. Use the scroll bar to view the range of fill styles available.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the fill style colour of your 2D text or shape shadow. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Displays a picture of the currently selected graduated fill style. If you have selected LOGARITHMIC, CYLINDRICAL, or LINEAR, you can drag the arrow to change the direction of the colour blend.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the ‘from’ colour of your 2D text or shape shadow fill style. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the ‘to’ colour of your 2D text or shape shadow fill style. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Rotate tab


Click on this to display the Rotate tab, with which you can rotate, flip and move your 2D text or shape.


Click on this to rotate your 2D text or shape 45 degrees to the left.


Click on this to rotate your 2D text or shape 45 degrees to the right.


Click on this to rotate your 2D text or shape 90 degrees to the left.


Click on this to rotate your 2D text or shape 90 degrees to the right.


Click on this to flip your 2D text or shape horizontally across a vertical axis.


Click on this to flip your 2D text or shape vertically across a horizontal axis.


Change the angle of rotation by doing one of the following:

Typing directly into the spin box

Using the up and down arrows on the side of the spin box

Dragging the radius on the Rotation circle.


Click on this to return your 2D text or shape to its default position.


Click on the arrows to position your 2D text or shape in relation to other layers.


Shape tab


Click on this to select a square shape.


Click on this to select a diamond shape.


Click on this to select a circle shape.


Click on this to select a star shape.


Click on this to select a shape to match your warped text effect.


Check this check box to toggle the Link to text layer on and off.


Click on this to match the shape of the linked text layer.


Select the number of points for your star shape by typing directly into the No. Of Points spin box or by using the up and down arrows on the side of the spin box.


Displays a picture of the minimum inner radius of your star.


Displays a picture of the maximum inner radius of your star.


Drag the slider to change the inner radius of your star. The lower the radius, the thinner your star will be.


Check this check box to toggle the Text Inside option on and off. This option is only available with a star or diamond shape selected.


Check this check box to toggle the Inner Points option on and off. This option is only available with a star shape selected.


3D Effects tab


Click on this to display the 3D Effects tab, with which you can choose either a solid or hollow effect for your 3D text and decide how far back the text extrudes.


Displays the 3D effects.


A picture of the minimum thickness of the 3D effect.


A picture of the maximum thickness of the 3D effect.


Drag the slider to the left to reduce the thickness of the 3D effect. Drag the slider to the right to increase the thickness of the 3D effect.


3D Texture tab


Click on this to display the 3D Texture tab, with which you can change the texture of your 3D text.


Displays the available texture styles. Use the scroll bar to view the range of textures available.


Displays a picture of the texture at its lowest detail.


Displays a picture of the texture at its highest detail.


Drag the slider to the left to increase the detail of the texture. Drag the slider to the right to decrease the detail of the texture. The higher the detail, the larger the texture.


3D Lighting tab


Click on this to display the 3D Lighting tab, with which you can change the colour and brightness of your 3D text and the colour, brightness and direction of the light shining on it.


Drag the slider to the left to reduce the brightness of the text colour. Drag the slider to the right to increase the brightness of the text colour.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the colour of your 3D text. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Drag the slider to the left to reduce the brightness of the spotlight colour. Drag the slider to the right to increase the brightness of the spotlight colour.


Click on the arrow to display the drop-down colour palette, from which you can change the colour of the spotlight on your 3D text. You can also adjust the colour tint by dragging the tint slider.


Drag this arcball to change the angle of the spotlight on your 3D text.


Click on this to direct the spotlight straight on to your text.


Click on this to direct the spotlight from the top left-hand corner.


Click on this to direct the spotlight from the top right-hand corner.


3D Orientation tab


Click on this to display the 3D Orientation tab, with which you can alter the orientation, view and position of your 3D text.


Drag the arcball to control the orientation of the 3D text.


Click on this to move the arcball and your 3D text back to the default position.


A picture of the lowest perspective on your 3D text.


A picture of the highest perspective on your 3D text.


Drag the slider to determine the perspective on your 3D text.


Click on this to return your 3D text to its default position.


Click on the arrows to position your 3D text in relation to other layers.


Gallery


Displays the layers available.


Click on this to open or insert a selected layer.


Click on this to cancel the command and close the PowerText Gallery.


Type your path in the text box, or click on the arrow to display a drop-down list box, from which you can select a folder.


Click on this to display the contents of the folder one level above the currently selected folder in its path.


Drag this to display all the drives available. You can select folders and files in the same way as you would in Windows Explorer.


Click on this to display the default folder in the preview area.


Click on this to change the way your files and folders are displayed in the browser. Click on the arrow to display the menu listing the views available. You can also right-click in the preview area to display a menu listing further options.

Select Folder tree from the menu to display a tree view of the drives and folders available in a window on the left-hand side of the preview window. The drives and folders are displayed in the same way as in Windows Explorer.


Message box Help


"Export failed due to a lack of system resources."

There are insufficient resources available for PowerText to export your file. Click on OK to close the message box, then try the following:

Reduce your export resolution. See your Windows Help for details of how to do this.

Close any other applications you have running.

Reduce your screen resolution and colour depth. See your Windows Help for details of how to do this.


"Export failed - probably due to insufficient disk space or insufficient network rights."

There is insufficient disk space available for PowerText to export your file. Click on OK to close the message box, then try the following:

Free some disk space then try again.

Check you have sufficient rights to the place you are exporting to.

Reduce your export resolution. See your Windows Help for details of how to do this.


"Export failed."

PowerText has encountered a problem while trying to export your file. Click on OK to close the message box, then try any of the following:

There could be insufficient disk space to export the file: Free up some disk space, or export the file at a smaller resolution.

Check you have sufficient rights to the place you are exporting to.

There are insufficient resources to export the file: Close any applications, or reduce your screen resolution and colour depth. See your Windows Help for details of how to do this.


"Print failed."

PowerText has encountered a problem while trying to print the file. Click on OK to close the message box, then try the following:

Check the printer is connected correctly and is online.

You may be low on resources to print the file. Reduce your screen resolution and colour depth. See your Windows Help for details of how to do this.


"Cannot open file."

PowerText has encountered a problem while trying to open the file. Click on OK to close the message box and then check the following:

The file may be corrupt; try opening a previously saved version instead.

Another user or program may have the file open already; close the file and any other applications you have running, then try again.

Restart your machine.


"Import picture failure."

PowerText has encountered a problem while trying to import the picture. Click on OK to close the message box and then check the following:

You may be trying to import an invalid picture format.

The picture file may be corrupted. Restart PowerText and try again. If this does not work, try opening a previously saved version of the file.

Note:

PowerText does not handle certain types of picture formats.


"Resource warning!"

Your system is dangerously low on resources. Click on OK to close the message box and then try the following:

Reduce your screen resolution and colour depth. See your Windows Help for details of how to do this.

Close any other programs you have running.


"An error has occurred in DirectX. PowerText will close."

PowerText has encountered a problem with your installation of DirectX. Click on OK to close the message box, then try the following:

Reinstall Direct X - See the DirectX documentation for details of how to do this.

Reinstall PowerText.


"The file could not be imported - unrecognised format."

PowerText has encountered a problem importing your file. Click on OK to close the message box, then check the following:

Make sure the file you are importing is a picture.

Save the file with a different picture format.

Note:

PowerText can handle picture formats and .ptx files.

PowerText does not handle certain types of picture formats.


"There are insufficient system resources to complete the operation."

PowerText has encountered a problem completing the command. Click on OK to close the message box, then try any of the following:

Reduce the screen resolution and colour depth.

Close any other programs you have running.


"This item cannot be loaded, because the maximum number of layers will be exceeded."

PowerText has encountered a problem loading the item. Click on OK to close the message box, then check the following:

The file + current layers exceeds 25. Delete any unwanted layers.

Note:

PowerText supports a maximum of 25 layers.


"You have now reached the maximum number of layers allowed."

PowerText cannot insert any more layers. Click on OK to close the message box, then check the following:

You now have the maximum number of layers. You cannot add any more layers.

Note:

PowerText supports a maximum of 25 layers.


"This item cannot be added, because the maximum number of layers has been reached."

PowerText has encountered a problem loading the item. Click on OK to close the message box, then check the following:

You already have the maximum number of layers. Delete any unwanted layers.

Note:

PowerText supports a maximum of 25 layers.


"No valid Direct3D drivers found."

PowerText has encountered a problem with DirectX. Click on OK to close the message box, then try the following:

Reinstall Direct X - See the DirectX documentation for details of how to do this.

Reinstall PowerText.


"%d file(s) could not be imported."

PowerText has encountered a problem importing one or more of your files. Click on OK to close the message box, then check the following:

You may be trying to import an invalid format. Change the format of the files you are trying to import.

Note:

PowerText can handle picture formats and .ptx files.

PowerText does not handle certain types of picture formats.


"The file is read only, and so cannot be saved."

PowerText has encountered a problem while trying to save the file. Click on OK to close the message box, then try the following:

Change the properties of the file, so it is not Read Only.

If the file is on a network, check that no one else has the file open.


File menu (as a standalone application))
File menu

Click on the menu command for which you want Help.

Hint:

When you highlight a menu command, the information line displays a prompt for how to use that command.

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File menu (within a host application)
File menu

Click on the menu command for which you want Help.

Hint:

When you highlight a menu command, the information line displays a prompt for how to use that command.

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Edit menu

Click on the menu command for which you want Help.

Hint:

When you highlight a menu command, the information line displays a prompt for how to use that command.

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View menu

Click on the menu command for which you want Help.

Hint:

When you highlight a menu command, the information line displays a prompt for how to use that command.

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Help menu

Click on the menu command for which you want Help.

Hint:

When you highlight a menu command, the information line displays a prompt for how to use that command.

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Click on this menu command to start a new PowerText effect.


Click on this menu command to open a PowerText effect that you have previously saved.


Click on this menu command to save the current PowerText effect with its current filename. If the PowerText is untitled, the Save As dialog box appears, in which you can enter a name for the PowerText effect.


Click on this menu command to save a new PowerText effect, or to save the current PowerText effect under a different filename. The Save As dialog box appears.

Choose a drive and folder in which to save your PowerText effect and enter a name for it.


Click on this menu command to save your PowerText effect using a different file format, so it can be used in other programs.


Click on this menu command to print your current PowerText effect.


Click on this menu command to set up the printer you want to use.


These are the filenames of the most recently opened files. Select the PowerText effect you want to open; after a few moments it appears in the Preview window.


Click on this menu command to close PowerText. If the current PowerText effect contains any unsaved changes, a message box appears giving you the opportunity to save or abandon your changes, or cancel the Exit command.


Click on this menu command to save a copy of the current PowerText effect under a different filename. The Save As dialog box appears.

Choose a drive and folder in which to save your PowerText effect and enter a name for it.


Click on this menu command to close PowerText and return to the host application. If the current PowerText effect contains any unsaved changes, a message box appears giving you the opportunity to save or abandon your changes, or cancel the Exit command.


Click on this menu command to insert a layer from the Gallery.


Click on this menu command to insert a picture into your PowerText effect.


Click on this menu command to display a submenu, from which you can insert one of three layers.


Click on this submenu command to insert a 2D text layer into your PowerText effect.


Click on this submenu command to insert a 3D text layer into your PowerText effect.


Click on this submenu command to insert a Shape layer into your PowerText effect.


Click on this menu command to delete the current layer.


Click on this menu command to delete all layers.


Click on this menu command to turn the display of the information line along the bottom of the PowerText window on or off. This command is checked when the information line is displayed.


Click on this menu command to display the contents page of the PowerText Help. From the contents page you can go to any area of the Help file. If you want to look for information on a particular topic, click on the Index tab.


Click on this menu command to display the PowerText billboard. This shows the version number of the program you are using and a copyright notice.


What is PowerText 3D?

PowerText is a utility that allows you to create amazing text effects, including fantastic 3D text effects. With PowerText you can:

Select a ready-made PowerText effect from the Gallery to build on and create your own PowerText effect

Create exciting and colourful PowerText effects for things such as posters, business cards and fliers

Create 3D PowerText.

You can then save, copy or embed your PowerText effects for use in other applications. You can view a preview of all your changes in the preview window, so you can easily see the effect of your changes.

PowerText can be run from within a host application, or as a standalone application.


The PowerText 3D window

Click on an area of the PowerText window below to pop-up a description of the selected area.

The PowerText window has context-sensitive Help, right-click on an area to view this Help.

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Title bar: Displays the name of the program.


Menu bar: Displays the PowerText menus. Click on a menu name to drop down a list of commands.


File: Drops down the File menu, from which you can open, save, print and export a PowerText effect and exit PowerText.


Edit: Drops down the Edit menu, from which you can insert a layer, a picture, or a layer from the Gallery and delete layers.


View: Drops down the View menu, from which you can turn the display of the information line on or off.


Help: Drops down the Help menu, from which you can view Help on PowerText.


2D Text tab: Displays a picture of a 2D Text layer, through which you can edit that 2D text layer of your PowerText effect.


3D Text tab: Displays a picture of a 3D Text layer, through which you can edit that 3D text layer of your PowerText effect.


Tab card: Displays a number of options, depending on which tab you have selected.


Shape tab: Displays a picture of a Shape layer, through which you can edit that Shape layer of your PowerText effect.


Text box: Displays the text of the current layer, which can be edited.


Gallery button: Click on this button to insert a layer into your PowerText effect.


Delete button: Click on this button to delete the selected layer from your PowerText effect.


Move Layer Back button: Click on this button to move the selected layer backwards.


Move Layer Forward button: Click on this button to move the selected layer forwards.


Minimise button: Click on this button to reduce the PowerText window to an icon.

When you reduce PowerText to an icon it continues to run but its window does not take up space on your desktop.


Maximise button: Click on this button to increase the PowerText window to its maximum size.

When you maximise the PowerText window, the maximise button is replaced with a Restore button that contains two overlapping squares. Click on the Restore button to return the window to its previous size.


Close button: Click on this button to close the PowerText window.


Control-menu icon: Click on this to display the PowerText Control-menu. By using Control-menu commands you can restore, size, move, minimise, maximise and close the PowerText window.


Information line: Displays information about PowerText and the actions you perform.


Preview window: Displays a preview of your PowerText effect with the changes you have made.


Scroll arrows: Click on the left or right arrow to scroll through the tabs, if you can’t see the tab you need.