Click on Summary to display help topics


What is Axialis AX-Icons 4.5?

Axialis AX-Icons 4.5

“The icon editor and library manager for Windows”

Axialis AX-Icons 4.5 is a powerful and easy to use icon editing and managing program that is ideal for retouching, creating, archiving and distributing icons. No add-on, all is included in AX-Icons 4.5!

A fabulous editor

AX-Icons 4.5 allows you to create all kind of icons (sizes from 16x16 to 72x72, custom sizes, black & white to 16,8 Million colors). The built in editor includes numerous painting tools: gradients (vertical, horizontal, radial), lines, rectangles, ellipses, text insertion, mirrors, rotations, clipboard cut/copy/paste (with scale options and automatic color conversion if needed), color replacer, 3D Frame, multiple brush size and shape, up to 16 undo/redo, advanced palette support, transparent drag & drop, fill, etc. Furthermore, this new version allows you to create multiple images icons (several colors and sizes in the same icon).

A powerful librarian

Axialis AX-Icons 4.5 is also a powerful tool for creating, modifying and managing icon libraries. This new version includes many new functions: read/write .ICL icon libraries, rename icons within libraries, full drag & drop support, multiple import/export, selective display, dockable librarian and much more!

Customizing Windows

A very useful built in utility will allow you to customize icon related settings in Windows 95 or NT 4.0. Many of these settings cannot be modified using standard Windows tools. With AX-Icons 4.5 you can: change the size of display icons, change the space between icons, Display icons using 256 or 16,8 millions colors, display or not the shortcut arrows, customize the standard icons (Workstation, Network, Drives, Trashcan, Printers, Start menu...), rebuild Windows icon cache.

Compiling and distributing libraries

The best feature of all, an exclusive function allows you to compile an icon library (or a selection of icons) into a self-executable EXE file that you can distribute freely. The user of this EXE file will be able to view, extract, print icons and customize Windows!

In short, AX-Icons is a powerful, user-friendly tool meant for both end-users and professionals.

We at AXIALIS hope you will enjoy AX-Icons, and will find it adapted to your needs. We offer it as a sample of our software competence.

Axialis AX-Icons 4.5 is available for Windows 95, 98 and NT 4.0.


Copyright; authors
Copyright, authors

Axialis AX-Icons 4.5

for Windows 95,98 & NT 4.0

“The Icon Editor and Library Manager for Windows”

©1998 Axialis SA - All Rights Reserved
Shareware version - Distribute freely

Authors:	Martine BOCCANFUSO

Marc EMILE

William and Sarah

AXIALIS, for user-friendly software.


AX-Icons Distribution (Shareware version)
Distribution (Shareware Version)

You are hereby licensed to make as many copies of the SHAREWARE VERSION as you wish and distribute it to anyone provided that all files are intact. You must distribute the install form of the SHAREWARE VERSION (you must distribute the file INSTALL.EXE, not the files resulting of an installation). You are not allowed to sell the SHAREWARE VERSION (except for shipment and handling charges).

Press is authorized to distribute it on any Cover Disk or CD-ROM without any permission. Please inform us by email (Internet: martine@axialis.com) each time you distribute the SHAREWARE VERSION.


How to Get the Fully Working Version?

You will find here all of the information you need to place an order and receive the Fully Working Version.

SECURE ON LINE ORDERING

Sure and Fast!

MasterCard, VISA and American Express orders can be placed via maagnum® secure web server. With Secure Online Ordering you will be able to download the Fully Working Version in a few minutes!

We strongly recommend you to use the Secure Online Ordering.

Click here to Enter the Internet Secure Order Form NOW!

PERSONAL OR SITE LICENSE ORDER

You can place two kinds of purchase orders:

Personal Order

Personal order means that you will receive one or more copy of the Fully Working Version by post or E-mail. If you specify an E-mail, the Fully Working Version will be sent to you attached to an E-mail.

Site License Order

Site license order is made for a company that wants to install 10 or more copies on its computers. When you send a site license order you receive a Fully Working Version of the program by mail or e-mail. You will be authorized to install the program on several computers according to the number of copies you ordered.

DELIVERY DELAY

Mail delivery

10-15 working days

E-mail delivery

2-4 working days

ORDERING BY CREDIT CARD

For payment by credit card we strongly recommend you to use the Secure Online Ordering (fast and sure).

We only accept MasterCard and VISA. To pay using American Express you must use Secure Online Ordering. Using credit card you can place Personal Registering Order or Site License Order. You can send us your order by fax or mail. We recommend you to use the order form that is included in the Shareware Version.

Fax orders

Please send your fax order form to: + 33 1 42 15 08 85

Mail orders

Please send your mail order form to:

AXIALIS SA
1, rue de Stockholm
75008 Paris - FRANCE

You will receive your copy of the Fully Working Version by post or E-mail. If you specify an E-mail, the Fully Working Version will be sent to you attached to an E-mail.

ORDERING BY CHECK

Payments by check must be in French Francs drawn on a French bank and payable to AXIALIS SA. Payment must be sent with the order. We recommend you to use the order form that is included in the Shareware Version. Send the order form and a check to:

AXIALIS SA
1, rue de Stockholm
75008 Paris - FRANCE

ORDERING VIA AUTHORIZED VENDORS

Registrations may also be ordered from the following Reseller:

USA

PsL

P.O. Box 35705

Houston, TX 77235-5705

Fax: 713-524-6398

Phone: 800-242-4775 or 713-524-6394

The price is $19.95.

You will receive the Fully Working Version by mail within 10-15 working days or 2-4 days by E-mail.

AS A REGISTER USER OF V4.0, CAN I GET THE V4.5 ?

YES! THE UPGRATE IS FREE!

And this is true for all Axialis products! If you are a registered user of an Axialis program (for example Axialis AX-Icons 4.0) you can freely get an upgrade in the same release (4.xx).

How to proceed?

You will receive a notification and a personalized download URL from Axialis by E-mail. If your e-mail has changed (we use the e-mail you entered in the registration form) or if you have not been notified 1 month after the official release date please contact us and specify your name, order# and date of your purchase.


Pricing

Personal (1 to 9 copies)

One user only must use a Personal Copy. You will receive one or more copies of the Fully Working Version by mail or e-mail (by download if you have chosen Secure Online Ordering).

Price: $14

See the list below for an approximate conversion in your currency (this may vary with the rate of exchange).

Currency	Price(*)

French Francs	85.00

Sterling	8.60

Deutsche Marks	25.00

Euros	12.75

Swiss Francs	21.00

Canadian Dollars	20.50

(*) Price per copy. Postage costs: add $5.00 (30.00FF) to the global price if you want mail delivery (not applicable for Secure Online Ordering or E-mail delivery).

Site License (10 copies or more)

Site license order is made for a company that wants to install 10 or more copies on its computers. When you send a site license order you receive a Fully Working Version of the program by mail or E-mail. You will be authorized to install the program on several computers according to the number of copies you ordered.

Currency / Copies	10 to 24(*)	25 to 49(*)	59 to 99(*)	100+(*)

US Dollars	9.10	7.75	6.60	5.75

French Francs	55.00	47.00	40.00	35.00

Sterling	5.56	4.75	4.05	3.53

Deutsche Marks	16.40	14.00	12.00	10.40

Euros	8.25	7.05	6.00	5.25

Swiss Francs	13.65	11.65	9.90	8.70

Canadian Dollars	13.30	11.40	9.70	8.47

(*) Price per copy. Postage costs: add $5.00 (30.00FF) to the global price if you want mail delivery (not applicable for Secure Online Ordering or E-mail delivery).


International Vendors

Registrations may also be ordered from the following Reseller:

USA

PsL

P.O. Box 35705

Houston, TX 77235-5705

Fax: 713-524-6398

Phone: 800-242-4775 or 713-524-6394

The price is $19.95.

You will receive the Fully Working Version by mail within 10-15 working days or 2-4 days by e-mail.


User License Agreement for Axialis Software

This user license agreement (the “AGREEMENT”) is an agreement between you (individual or single entity) and AXIALIS, for the AXIALIS software (the “SOFTWARE”) that is accompanying this AGREEMENT.

The SOFTWARE is the property of AXIALIS and is protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties. The SOFTWARE is not sold. It is licensed.

SHAREWARE VERSION

The “SHAREWARE VERSION” means a trial/limited version of the SOFTWARE. If you accepts the terms and conditions of this AGREEMENT, you have certain rights and obligations as follow:

You may:

1.	Install and use the SHAREWARE VERSION for a trial period of 30 days.

2.	Use one or more copies of the SHAREWARE VERSION for evaluation purpose only.

3.	Copy and distribute freely the SHAREWARE VERSION (see “DISTRIBUTION”).

You may NOT:

1.	Sublicense, rent or lease the SHAREWARE VERSION or any portion of it.

2.	Decompile, disassemble, reverse engineer or modify the SHAREWARE VERSION or any portion of it.

3.	Copy the documentation accompanying the SHAREWARE VERSION.

4.	Use the SHAREWARE VERSION after your trial period of 30 days.

DISTRIBUTION (SHAREWARE VERSION ONLY)

You are hereby licensed to make as many copies of the SHAREWARE VERSION as you wish and distribute it to anyone provided that all files are intact. You must distribute the install form of the SHAREWARE VERSION (you must distribute the file INSTALL.EXE, not the files resulting of an installation). You are not allowed to sell the SHAREWARE VERSION (except for shipment and handling charges). Press is authorized to distribute it on any Cover Disk or CD-ROM without any permission. Please inform us by email (Internet: martine@axialis.com) each time you distribute the SHAREWARE VERSION.

WARRANTY DISCLAMER

The SOFTWARE is supplied “AS IS”. AXIALIS disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, including, without limitation, the warranties of merchantability and of fitness for any purpose. The user must assume the entire risk of using the SOFTWARE.

DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES

AXIALIS assumes no liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of the SOFTWARE, even if AXIALIS has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Any liability of the seller will be limited to refund the purchase price.


Creating a new icon

Choose File/New then New Icon (.ICO)

A dialog box New Icon opens and ask you to choose the initial image format for the icon. An icon can include several image formats (different size and color depth). For available options see Creating a new image format in an icon

If you want to change default settings for new icon with current dialog settings, click Set As Default

A new editor window opens. You are now ready to create your icon.

Remark

You can ask AX-Icons to bypass the new icon dialog box. Choose Do not prompt in the Future or choose Options/Preferences and in General tab, uncheck "Choose an initial format" option. In this case the new icon will always have the default settings (See above).


Creating a new image format in an icon

Choose Draw/New image Format

In the Size group, choose:

16x16, 32x32, 48x48, 64x64 or 72x72 pixels

In the Colors group, choose:

Monochrome (1 bit)

16 colors (4bits)

256 colors (dithered)

256 colors (Indexed)

true colors (16.8 million)

In the Personalized Size Group, choose:

Width

Height

If you want the height equal to width, choose “Square aspect”

A list of all image formats is displayed.


Deleting an image format in an icon

Choose Draw/Deleting image format

 Related Topics


Selecting an image format in an icon

Choose Draw/Image format

A list of image format is displayed. Choose one of format and OK.

 Related Topics


Opening an icon file (.ICO)

Choose File/Open

Select the file’s folder from the Look In Drop Down box

Click on the file type that you want to select from the File Type Drop Down box (.ICO)

Click on the file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

Remark

The contents of each icon file are displayed.


Closing an icon file (.ICO)

Choose File/Close

Remark

AX-Icons will ask you whether you want to save it.


Saving the editor contents as an icon file (.ICO)

Choose File/Save

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the filename for the new icon in the File Name Text box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICO) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.

Click on the Save button.

Note: If the filename is already in use, AX-Icons will present a prompt. Click on the Yes button to overwrite the existing file.


Adding icons to the librarian

Open an icon file (.ICO)

Select the librarian

Choose File/Add to the librarian


Printing the editor contents

Open the icon file (.ICO)

Choose File/Print


Previewing the printed editor contents

Choose File/Print preview

The file will be displayed exactly as it will be printed.

If appropriate, click on the buttons Page up, Page down, Zoom+, Zoom- or Page to change pages, or display or zoom in on a page

If you are satisfied, click on the Print button

 Related Topics


Setting printer parameters

Choose File/Printer Settings

 Related Topics


Moving/Copying a part of a drawing without using clipboard
Moving/copying a part of a drawing without using the clipboard

AX-Icons lets you use drag and drop to move or copy part of a drawing without using the clipboard. The technique involves selecting an image region and moving or copying it while holding down a mouse button (press CTRL to copy) then releasing the button at the desired location. The mouse pointer changes to a cross during the operation

To move/copy part of a drawing without using the clipboard

Select the drawing region with the selection tool

Move the pointer inside the selection. The pointer changes to a movement cross (with 4 arrows)

To move the selection to the desired location, drag while holding down the left mouse button

-or-

To copy the selection to the desired location, drag while simultaneously pressing the left mouse button and CTRL

Remark

The original selection area is painted the right mouse button color when you move or copy the region.


Cut/Copy/Paste a part of an image

The cut/copy/paste functions are used mainly to communicate with other Windows programs.

Important

An icon is composed of two bitmaps (one bitmap for the 16, 256 or 16.8 million colors and one for inverted and transparent colors). Given that the document can only deal with a single bitmap, AX-Icons has chosen to keep the bitmap color in cut/copy/paste operations. Inverted and Transparent colors will thus be affected. Inverted becomes white and Transparent becomes black.

To move part of a drawing

Select an icon part of an icon with the selection tool

Choose Edit/Cut

You can select any drawing area with the selection tool

Choose Edit/Paste

The Paste options dialog box appears

Different options are available:

Paste 1:1 in upper left of window: This option is always available. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing to the upper left area of the editor window in 1:1 scale

Resize image to fit window: This option is always available. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing, adjusting its size to that of the editor window

Paste 1:1 to selection area: This option only appears if you have selected a destination area with the selection tool. It allows you to insert the cut or copied drawing, in 1:1 scale, in the selection area

Resize image to selection area: This option only appears if you have selected a destination area. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing adjusting its size to that of the selection area

To copy part of a drawing

Select the part to be copied with the selection tool

Choose Edit/Copy

You can select a drawing area with the selection tool

Choose Edit/Paste

The Paste options dialog box appears

Different options are available:

Paste 1:1 in upper left of window: This option is always available. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing to the upper left area of the editor window in 1:1 scale

Resize image to fit window: This option is always available. It allows you to paste the cut or copied, drawing adjusting its size to that of the editor window

Paste 1:1 to selection area: This option only appears if you have selected a destination area with the selection tool. It allows you to insert the cut or copied drawing, in 1:1 scale, in the selection area

Resize image to selection area: This option only appears if you have selected a destination area. It allows you to paste the cut or copied drawing adjusting its size to that of the selection area


Capturing icon

The function "Capture icon" allows you to photograph an icon-sized region of the screen (16x16, 32x32, 48x48, or 64x64 pixels). If you select Draw/Capture icon, this command displays the following message in the edit area:

“Use Drag and drop on this area to capture the icon”

The pointer and the application window change to a square with a camera beneath it. Move the square to the screen area you want to photograph and click on the left mouse button. The selected screen area is captured into the editor.

To capture an icon

Choose Draw/Capture icon or F9

AX-Icons disappears and the pointer changes to a square underlined with a camera.
Select the desired screen area with the pointer, then click on the left mouse button

The screen area selected is captured.

You can now modify this icon, create your own icon file (.ICO) , or add it to the selected librarian


Using standard and customized palettes

AX-Icons supplies a standard palette with 48 colors. You can customize this palette by creating your own colors using RGB values or the standard Windows dialog box. You can also work with and customize a 256 color palette with dithering, 256 pure colors (indexed) or 16.8 million colors (true colors).

To modify a color in a customized palette

Select the color in the palette

Double-click on this color or choose Options/Modify color. The standard Windows “Color” box opens.

Modify your color using the scroll box or in the color box

If you want add the customized color

Click on the <Add color> button and the color will be automatically placed in your customized color palette, replacing the color selected in the standard palette.

To restore the standard palette

Choose Options/Standard palette

Important

AX-Icons automatically saves the customized color palette. However, if you use the command Options/Standard palette, a message will indicate that this option is not reversible and will clear your customized palette. You will then be asked to confirm.


Opening a color palette

AX-Icons allows you to create and work with your own customized color palette.

Choose Options/Open palette

Select the file’s folder from the Look In Drop Down box

Click on the file type from the File Type Drop Dow box.

PAL (if you use 16 or 256 colors "dithering" or in 16.8 million colors "true colors"

PA8 (if you use 256 pure colors)

Click on the palette file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

The palette opens automatically and is linked to the edit window.


Saving a color palette

AX-Icons allows you to customize and save as many color palettes as you like.

To save a 16, 256 (dithering - 8 bits) or 16.8 Million color palette

Modify the customized color palette. (See [image] Related Topics)

Select or create the file’s folder from the Look in Drop Down box

Enter the filename for the new palette in the File Name Text Box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.PAL) automatically in the File Type Drop down box.

Click on the Save button.

Note: If the filename is already in use, AX-Icons will present a prompt. Click on the Yes button to overwrite the existing file.

To save a 16 or 256 color (indexed) palette

Modify the customized color palette.

(See [image] Related Topics)

Select or create the file’s folder from the Look in Drop Down box

Enter the filename for the new palette in the File Name Text Box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.PA8) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.

Click on the Save button.

Note: If the filename is already in use, AX-Icons will present a prompt. Click on the Yes button to overwrite the existing file.


Creating a gradient

Create an icon with 256 colors (indexed)

Select a color with the left mouse button

Select another color with the right mouse button

Choose Options/Create gradient

You are asked to confirm:

Do you really want to create a gradient in the current icon palette (from foreground color to background color?)

Click on YES. The gradient is automatically displayed in the palette.


Adjusting the transparency of the image
Adjusting the transparency of an image

The transparency of an image is especially useful when you move or copy an object. For this operation, pure colors are normally used.

Example

Draw a filled blue square. Inside it draw a filled yellow circle.

At the bottom right of the editing area, draw a filled green rectangle.

Now you want to move the yellow circle into the green rectangle.

Select the yellow circle. Using the right mouse button, choose the color blue as background color.

Click on the Transparency icon or Choose Draw/Image transparency or type CTRL+T

Now you can move or copy the selection to the green rectangle while holding down the CTRL key.

The blue color is substituted for the transparent color in the green rectangle.


Exporting an icon to a BMP file

Edit an icon in the editor

Choose Draw/Export to BMP

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the name for the new BMP file in the File Name Text box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (BMP automatically in the File Type Drop down box.


Importing an image into an icon

You can import an image in JPEG, BMP, DIB or RLE format into the edit window.

Choose Draw/Import Bitmap

Select the file’s folder from the Look In Drop Down box

Click on the file type from the File Type Drop Down box.

BMP, DIB, RLE, JPG

Click on the file that you want to select in the Contents List box. A checkbox "Preview" allows you to visualize the image before opening the file.

Click on the Open button

You can select a portion of an image or specify the Left, Top, Width and Height position if the selected area in pixels. If you manually change these values, the selected rectangle will move accordingly in the picture preview area.

The image is imported into the edit window as an icon.

Important

If the image to be imported does not have the same color palette as the icon in the current edit window, AX-Icons asks you if you want to replace the current icon palette by the palette attached to the image being pasted.


Zooming in the edit window

Increasing the scale at which the image is displayed

Choose Display/Zoom in

The scale at which the image is displayed is increased. The scale is displayed in the status bar.

Reducing the scale at which the image is displayed

Choose Display/Zoom out

The scale at which the image is displayed is reduced. The scale is displayed in the status bar.

Displaying in automatic zoom

Choose Display/ Automatic Zoom

Resizes the editor to the size of the window


Drawing tools

Selection
Color Picker
Color Peplacer
Pencil
Brush
Flood fill
Straight line
3D Frame
Rectangle
Filled rectangle
Ellipse
Filled ellipse
 Related Topics


The Selection tool allows you to define a region of the icon in the editor in order to copy, cut or paste it. The cursor changes to a cross. Position the cross in the upper left corner of the desired region, then hold down the left mouse button and drag to the diagonally opposite corner. Release the left mouse button when you have selected the desired region


The Color Picker tool allows you to pick up a color from the editing surface by clicking with the left mouse button for a foreground color and the right button for a background color.


The Color Replacer tool allows you to rub out the foreground color and replace it by the background color. The cursor changes to an eraser.


The Pencil tool allows you to apply color as you would with a pencil. The cursor changes to a pencil in the editor. The thickness depends on the type of line selected.

Choose any two colors in the standard or customized palette. Click on the right or left mouse button to use one of the colors to draw one pixel of the desired color, or drag the mouse around in the workspace to color the pixels under the pencil.


The Brush tool allows you to draw color with different brush shapes and thickness (Fine, Medium square, Large square, Small circle, Medium circle, Large circle).


The Flood Fill tool allows you to color an enclosed region. The cursor changes to a paint bucket with a cross. The cross serves as a pointer. Choose two colors in the standard or customized palette. Click on the left or right mouse button for the color you want. Position the cross inside an enclosed surface. All the pixels of the enclosed region will be filled with the selected color.

Note

It is possible to apply horizontal or vertical gradients. Just choose two colors in the palette and assign them respectively to the left and right mouse buttons. If you choose the left mouse button, the horizontal/vertical gradient will be from the left button color to the right button color. If you choose the right mouse button, the horizontal/vertical gradient will be from the right button color to the left button color.


The Straight tool allows you to draw straight lines. The editor cursor changes to a line, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer. Choose two colors in the standard or customized palette. Click on the left or right mouse button for the desired color. Position the cross at the point where the line is to begin and then drag the mouse to the other end of the line.


The 3D Frame tool allows you to draw a button with a 3D look. You can also choose different forms and thickness. The cursor changes to a filled circle, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer.


The rectangle tool allows you to draw rectangle contours with a line thickness of 1, 2, or 3 pixels. The cursor changes to an empty square, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer. Choose two colors in the standard or customized palette. Select the desired color. Place the cross at the point where you want one corner of the rectangle, then, holding down the left mouse button, drag the pointer to the diagonally opposite corner. Release the button when you have the desired rectangle.


The Filled rectangle tool allows you to draw solid squares or rectangles. The cursor changes to a filled square, initially a cross. The cross serves as a pointer. Choose two colors in the standard or customized palette. Select the desired color. Place the cross at one corner of the rectangle, then, holding down the left mouse button, drag the pointer to the diagonally opposite corner. Release the button when you have the desired rectangle.

Note

It is possible to apply horizontal or vertical gradients. Just choose two colors in the palette and assign them respectively to the left and right mouse buttons. If you press the left mouse button, the horizontal/vertical gradient will be from the left color to the right color. If you press the right button, the horizontal/vertical gradient will be from the right to the left color.


The ellipse tool allows you to draw circles or ellipses with a contour 1, 2 or 3 pixels thick. The cursor changes to an empty circle, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer. Drawing proceeds as with the square or filled square tool.


The Filled ellipse tool allows you to draw solid circles and ellipses with a contour 1, 2, or 3 pixels thick. The cursor changes to a filled circle, initially a cross. The cross acts as a pointer. Drawing proceeds as with the square or filled rectangle tool.


Brushes

Fine (1 pixel)
Medium square (3 pixels)
Large square (5 pixels)
Extra large square (7 pixels)
Small circle (1pixel radius)
Medium circle (3 pixels radius)
Large circle (5 pixels radius)
Extra large circle (7 pixels radius)
Right oblique
Left oblique
Medium diamond (3 pixels)
Large diamond (5 pixels)
 Related Topics


Color fill types

Solid color
Vertical gradient
Horizontal gradient
Radial gradient


Drawing options

Vertical mirror
Horizontal mirror
90° rotation
Writing
Grid
Invert colors
 Related Topics


Allows vertical permutation of selected icon region


Allows horizontal permutation of selected icon region


Allows 90 degree rotation of the whole icon


Allows to write in an icon

Choose Draw/Writing

Enter the text

Choose the Font and Size

Choose OK


Allows you to display a grid in the editor


Inverts the colors in the selected icon region (negative image)


Creating a new folder in the librarian

Go to the librarian

Choose Librarian/New folder

Enter the name of the folder


Creating a new library in the librarian

Go to the librarian

Choose Librarian/New library

Specify the library name to be created as well as the sub-directory in which it will be saved

Note

The library window can be resized. You can change the horizontal dimension of the left side of the tree by positioning the cursor on the vertical line and holding the left mouse button down as you move the mouse.


Renaming a folder in the librarian
Renaming the folder in the librarian

Select the folder

Choose Librarian/Rename

Enter the new name of the folder


Moving a folder in the librarian

Select the folder, holding down the left mouse button, drag then release on the other folder

Remark

You can't move the folder in its direct parent or in one of its child.


Renaming a library in the librarian

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Rename

Specify library name will be renamed


Saving the library in the librarian

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Save

See [image] Related Topics


Deleting a folder in the librarian

Select the folder

Choose Librarian/Delete

Click Deleting

Warning

You delete the folder and its contents. The folder will be definitively deleted.


Deleting a library in the librarian

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Delete

Click Deleting

Warning

You delete the library and its contents. The library will be definitively deleted.


Renaming one or more icons in the librarian

Select one or more icons

Choose Librarian/Rename

Enter the name of an icon

Click on Renaming button

Remark

If you rename several icons, they are automatically indexed. For example, "computer" will be indexed by "computer 1", "computer 2", ... "computer n".


Deleting one or more icons in the librarian

Select one or more icons

Choose Librarian/Delete

Note: You will not be able to UNDO this operation.


Opening an icon from the librarian

Select an icon in the library

Choose Librarian/Open icon or select an icon then double-click

To modify an icon

The icon is displayed in an edit window. This window shows the icon number and the library name where it is located.

Example : Icon N°8 in "mplayer" (16x16 - 16 colors)

Modify the icon with the drawing tools

Choose File/Update in the edit window

The modified icon is updated in the file or library

Reselect the library

Choose Librarian/Save


Opening an icon as a new icon from the librarian

Select an icon in the library

Choose Librarian/Open as a new icon

The icon is displayed in an edit window. This window has a new icon number. For example: Icon 3

Modify the icon with the drawing tools

Choose File/Save or File/Save as from the edit window or File/Add to librarian

The modified icon is saved in an ICO file or added at the end of the selected library in librarian.


Displaying icons in the librarian

Choose Librarian/Display icons

The icons will be displayed by:

Size16x16

Size 32x32

Size 48x48

Monochrome

16 colors

256 colors and more

Information (icon name, number of image format)


Importing icons into the librarian

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Import

Select the file type from the File Type Drop Down box

Icon files (.ICO)

Program files (.CPL; .DLL, .DRV, .EXE, .OCX, .VBX)

Libraries (.ICL, .NIL, .IL)

Click on the file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

The imported icons will be automatically placed at the end of the selected library.


Exporting icons to an .ICL or .DLL file

Select one or more icons

Choose Librarian/Export to .ICL or .DLL

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the name for the new .ICL or .DLL library in the File Name Text box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICL or .DLL) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.


Saving an icon as an ICO file

Select the icon to the library

Choose Librarian/Save as ICO

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the name for the new ICO file in the File Name Text box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICO) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.


Printing the library from the librarian

Select the library to the librarian

Choose Librarian/Print library


Previewing the printed library from the librarian

Select the library to the librarian

Choose Librarian/ Print Preview library


Compiling a library from the librarian

Select one or more icons to compile. AX-Icons will select all library icons if you have not done a selection

Choose Librarian/Compile

Enter the .EXE filename in the area "Enter the path and the .EXE filename will be created"

Enter the icon library title

Enter the icon library comment

Click on Compiling button

The user of this compiled version will be able to print, export icons and even customize its Windows.

Warning

You are going to create a compiled and freely redistributable version of your icon library. “Freely redistributable” means that AXIALIS permits you to redistribute without royalties the portion of executable code produced by this compilation.

It does not mean that you can freely distribute any icon using this compilation. Don’t forget that all icons are intellectual properties of their respective authors.

Consequently, you must hold the Copyright on each icon you have inserted in the compiled library.

AXIALIS assumes no liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of this compilation.

For more Information, click on the More Info about Copyright button.


Launching the executable library

Execute the .EXE compilation file

The available features for the end user are:

 In the File menu

Saving as an .ICO file

Exporting to .ICL or .DLL

Customizing the window of Windows

Printing

Preview

Setting printer parameters

 In the Display menu

Toolbar

Status bar

Size 16x16

Size 32x32

Size 48x48

Monochrome

16 colors

256 colors and more

Displaying information (icon name, number of image formats)


Creating a new icon library
Creating a new icon library (.ICL)

Choose File/New icon library (.ICL)

You can save this icon library as an .ICL or .DLL file.


Opening a library as a separate document

AX-Icons allows you to open a library in a separate document window. This operation is very useful when moving or copying icons from one library to another to keep them visible on screen. You can also import into and export from a document.

Select the library

Choose Librarian/Open library

Warning

If you open the current library as a document, the current library will be automatically deactivated by AX-Icons. You can perform no operation on this library as long as the associated document is open. But all operations in the document library will be update in the library.


Exporting icons to an .ICL or .DLL file

Select one or more icons

Choose Library/Export to .ICL or .DLL

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the name for the new .ICL or .DLL library in the File Name Text box. AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICL or .DLL) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.


Importing icons into the library

Select the library

Choose Library/Import

Select the file type from the File Type Drop Down box

Icon files (.ICO)

Program files (.CPL; .DLL, .DRV, .EXE, .OCX, .VBX

Libraries (.ICL, .NIL, .IL)

Click on the file that you want to select.

Click on the Open button

The imported icons will be automatically placed at the end of the selected library.


Saving an icon as an icon file (.ICO) from the library

Select an icon

Choose Library/Save as ICO

Select or create the file’s folder from the Save In Drop Down box

Enter the name for the new icon file (.ICO) in the File Name Text box AX-Icons will add the file extension (.ICO) automatically in the File Type Drop Down box.


Opening an icon from the library
Opening an icon from the librarian

Select an icon in the library

Choose Library/Open icon or select an icon then double-click

To modify an icon

The icon is displayed in an edit window. This window shows the number of the icon and the library name where it is located.

Example : Icon N°8 in "mplayer" (16x16 - 16 colors)

Modify the icon with the drawing tools

Choose File/Update in the edit window

The modified icon is updated in the file or library

Reselect the library

Choose Library/Save


Opening an icon as a new icon from the library

Select an icon in the library

Choose Library/Open as a new icon

The icon is displayed in an edit window. This window has a new icon number. For example: Icon 3

Modify the icon with the drawing tools

Choose File/Save or File/Save as from the edit window or File/Add to librarian

The modified icon is saved in an ICO file or added at the end of the selected library in librarian.


Renaming one or more icons in the library

Select one or more icons

Choose Library/Rename

Enter the name of an icon

Click on Renaming button

Remark

If you rename more icons, they are automatically indexed. For example, "computer" will be indexed by "computer 1", "computer 2", ... "computer n".


Deleting one or more icons in the library

Select one or more icons

Choose Library/Delete


Compiling a library

Select one or more icons to compile. By default, AX-Icons will select all icons in the current library.

Choose Library/Compile

Enter the .EXE filename in the area "Enter the path and the .EXE filename will be created"

Enter the icon library title

Enter the icon library comment

Click on Compiling button

The user of this compiled version will be able to print, export icons and even customize its Windows.

Warning

You are going to create a compiled and freely redistributable version of your icon library. “Freely redistributable” means that AXIALIS permits you to redistribute without royalties the portion of executable code produced by this compilation.

It does not mean that you can freely distribute any icon using this compilation. Don’t forget that all icons are intellectual properties of their respective authors.

Consequently, you must hold the Copyright on each icon you have inserted in the compiled library.

AXIALIS assumes no liability for damages, direct or consequential, which may result from the use of this compilation.

For more Information, click on the More Info about Copyright button.


Managing programs and libraries

Managing programs is identical to managing libraries except the program files (*.VBX, *.DLL, *.EXE, *.DRV, *.OCX) contain executable code and you imposed restrictions.

You can:

Visualizing, modifying, exporting, copying in clipboard and add to the librarian

Saving the modifications and export .ICL

You can not:

Adding or deleting icons

Adding or deleting image formats to icons

Warning

If you modify icons in a program file, you must before save its contents.


Customizing Windows

Choose Options/Customizing Windows

1.	In Parameters tab

Space between icons

Display icons using 256 or 16.8M colors

Display an arrow in shortcut

Rebuild now

2.	In Desktop icons tab

This list allows you to select the desktop icon you want to change. (See [image] Related Topics)

3.	In Standard icons tab

This list allows you to select the standard icon you want to change. (See [image] Related Topics)

4.	Click on Apply button to apply the changes to Windows.

5.	Click on Default icon button to return default standard or desktop icons in Windows.


Opening a program file or a library

Choose File/Open

Select the file’s folder from the Look In Drop Down box

Click on the file type from the File Type Drop Down box.

Program files (.CPL, .DLL, .DRV, .EXE, .OCX, .VBX)

Library files (.ICL, .IL, .NIL)

Click on the file that you want to select in the Contents List box.

Click on the Open button

Remark

The Program file or library contents are displayed.


Closing a program file or a library

Choose File/Close

Remark

AX-Icons will ask you whether you want to save it.


Customizing AX-Icons

You can check different options to customize AX-Icons

Choose Options/Preferences

1.	 In GENERAL tab

Create new icon at startup

Choose an initial format when creating a new icon

Confirm before saving libraries

Minimize use of system resources (displays cursors slower in lists)

Maximize documents at opening

2.	In EDITOR tab

Transparent and Inverted color patterns

Edit Window color background

Propose Options during Paste operation

Display a shade behind cursor edit area

Use Automatic zoom by default

Display grid by default

3.	In Messages tab

Warn insufficient video colors to edit a particular image format

Ask to create a new document if a file does not exists

Prompt when opening a program file

Welcome and tips window

Warn if .ICO and .ICL files are not associated with AX-Icons

Warn if ComCtl32 Windows component is missing

Warn if insufficient video colors (16 colors display)

4.	In Toolbars tab

Local toolbars display

Use Internet Explorer like Toolbar

Display Background and Bitmap

Display button text

Display Animation

Display Recently used list

Empty Recently used list

5.	In Librarian Path tab

Path


Managing favorites

Adding to the Favorite List

Select the document

Choose Favorites/Add to Favorites

In the area Name displays the name of the document as it appears in the Favorite List. You can change the name and click OK.

Modify the Favorite List

Choose Modify/Favorites

The Existing Favorite List displays. You must select the document you want to change or remove from the list.

If you want to change the name of the selected document (you will change the name that appears in the list, not the filename) click the Rename button.

If you want to remove the selected document from the list (you will delete the file on the disk) click the Remove button.


Reorganizing windows

The window/New window commands opens a new edit window

This option is indispensable if you want to redisplay the contents of the same edit window or if you want to copy or move part of an image from one location to another in the same window.

The Cascade command displays windows in a stack, one behind the other. The window titles remain visible, but the contents may be hidden.

The Tile command distributes the display area between all windows so that all contents are totally visible.


Reorganizing full window

Choose Window/Reorganize full window

Reorganizes the desktop full window.

Note

If you choose the option Automatic reorganization, all opened windows will be displayed full screen.


Reorganizing horizontally

Choose Window/Horizontal reorganization

Reorganizes your desktop using a horizontal separation

Note:

If you choose the option Automatic reorganization, all opened windows will be reorganized horizontally.


Reorganizing vertically

Choose Window/Vertical reorganization

Reorganizes your desktop using a vertical separation

Note

If you choose the option Automatic reorganization, all opened windows will be reorganized vertically.


Reorganizing automatically

Choose Window/Automatic reorganization

Toggles automatic reorganization during use on/off


Reorganizing Windows desktop

Choose Window/Reorganize desktop

Reorganizes the desktop ergonomically


Reorganizing icons

Choose Window/Reorganize icons

Reorganizes icons at the bottom of the window.


Drag and drop from one library to another

AX-Icons includes a function that makes it easier to copy and move icons from one library to another. This function is called "Drag and Drop". You select a library, open it as a document, and select the icons you want to move, then drag them all holding down the mouse button until you get to the other document.

To move icons from one library to another

Open icon libraries as documents

Select icons

Using drag and drop, drag them to the document to which you want to import the icons

To copy icons from one library to another

Open icon libraries as documents

Select one or more icons, holding down the CTRL or SHIFT key as you click with the left button on the icons one after the other

Keep the left mouse button pressed down

Press the CTRL key and drag to the document where you want to copy the icons. The cursor changes to a pointer with one or more documents in the background and a + sign

AX-Icons automatically copies all the icons to the document and places them in the foreground. The libraries are automatically updated after you close the documents.


Drag and drop from one program file to a library

Open a program file (*.CPL; *.DLL, *.DRV, *.EXE, *.OCX, *.VBX)

Select one or more icons using the SHIFT and/or CTRL key

Holding down the left mouse button, drag then release into the selected library (.ICL, .NIL, or .IL) or on a library in the left pane of the library window.
The cursor changes to a pointer with one or more documents in the background and a + sign
The icons will be inserted at the desired location.


Drag and drop from one file or library to the Windows customizing window
To drag and drop from one file or library to the Windows customizing window

Open a program file (.CPL; .DLL, .DRV, .EXE, .OCX, .VBX),
a library (.ICL, .NIL, .IL) or select a library in the librarian

Choose Options/Customizing Windows

Click on Desktop icons or Standard icons tab

Select an icon from the file or library

Holding down the left mouse button, drag then release on the standard or desktop icons, which you wish to replace.

Click on Apply button

The icons will be automatically replaced the old.


To toggle display of the toolbar on or off

Choose Display/Toolbar

Choose Librarian, Standard, Drawing, colors and Scale 1:1

Tips

You can drag and drop toolbars where you want into AX-Icons.


To toggle display of the status bar on or off

Choose Display/Status bar


How to use the librarian created with AX-Icons 2.0 or 3.0 for Win 95

First solution (recommended)

Install AX-Icons. Copy (Not move) the sub-directory "Library" and its contents from AX-Icons 2.0 or 3.0 to AX-Icons 4.5 for Win 95

Execute AX-Icons 4.5. Converting then importing are automatic.

Second solution

Install AX-Icons in the same directory that AX-Icons 2.0 or 3.0

Execute AX-Icons 4.5. Converting then importing are automatic.


Uninstall Axialis AX-Icons 4.5

1.  Open Start in the Windows task bar

2.  Click Parameters

3.  Choose Control Panel

4.  Click Add/Delete Program

5.  Choose in the list: Axialis AX-Icons 4.5

6. Click Add/Delete

7.  Follow uninstall instructions


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically creates a new icon (32x32 16 colors) each time it starts.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you for an image format each time you create a new icon. If this box is not checked, AX-Icons automatically creates a new 32x32, 16 color image format.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you before saving libraries (in the librarian only). If this box is not checked, AX-Icons automatically saves any changes


If this box is checked, AX-Icons minimize use of system resources when displaying cursors in lists. If this box is not checked, AX-Icons displays cursors faster in lists by using a memory cache (which is memory consuming).


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically maximize document windows at opening.


Specifies the pattern used to display Transparent and Inverted colors in editor window

Hatched pattern

Small points

Large points

Solid

Custom color (If you choose this option, you can choose an editor custom transparent/inverted color

by clicking on the "Custom color" button)


Allows you to specify a background color for editor window.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you to choose an option each time you perform a clipboard paste operation. If this box is not checked, AX-Icons automatically pastes the image at scale 1:1 in the upper-left corner of the editor area.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons adds a shade effect behind the edit area in editor windows.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons activates automatic zoom when opening a new editor window.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically shows the grid when opening a new editor window (for animated or fixed cursors).


If this box is checked, AX-Icons displays a warning message each time you edit an image format which exceeds your display capabilities.

Remark: It is highly recommended to configure screen settings to Hi Colors (65536) or True Colors (16.8M) when using AX-Icons


If his box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you to create a new document if you try to open a file that does not exist. It happens when you specify a new filename directly in the “Recently used” combo box or if an old document has been removed.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons displays an information window each time you open a program file (EXE, DLL, OCX…).


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically opens the welcome window and display a new Tip of The Day each time it starts.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you when it starts if .ICO and .ICL files are not properly associated with it. If this box is not checked, AX-Icons will ignore bad file association.

Remark: It is highly recommended to associate .ICO and .ICL with AX-Icons in order to permit fast cursor/library access from Windows Explorer.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you at startup if the Windows component named ComCtl32 v4.72 is missing or has an older version. AX-Icons includes a special feature that permits you to use a built-in “Internet Explorer like” toolbar. ComCtl32 v4.72 or more must be installed in order to use this very useful toolbar. You can install this component directly from this warning window.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons warns you if your display configuration is insufficient (16 or less color displays) each time it starts.

Remark: It is highly recommended to configure screen settings to Hi Colors (65536) or True Colors (16.8M) when using AX-Cursors.


If this box "Icons (.ICO)" is checked, AX-Icons automatically shows a local toolbar when opening a cursor library window.
If this box "Libraries" (.ICL, .IL, .NIL) is checked, AX-Icons automatically shows a local toolbar when opening an animated cursor window.
If this box "Programs (.EXE, .DLL) is checked, AX-Icons automatically shows a local toolbar when opening a program window.


Specifies whether you want AX-Icons to display its main toolbar using an ‘Internet Explorer®’ style. You must have installed the Windows component named ComCtl32 v4.72 (or a newer version) in order to access this feature. If the box is not checked, AX-Icons will display a standard toolbar.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons uses a background bitmap as wallpaper in the Toolbar. This feature is accessible only if you have chosen to use an ‘Internet Explorer®’ like toolbar and if your actual display is Hi Colors (65636 colors) or True Colors (16.8M colors).


Specifies whether you want AX-Icons to display a text under each button in the toolbar. This feature is accessible only if you have chosen to use an ‘Internet Explorer®’ like toolbar


Specifies whether you want AX-Icons to display an animation in the toolbar. This feature is accessible only if you have chosen to use an ‘Internet Explorer®’ like toolbar


If this box is checked, AX-Icons displays a ‘Recently Used’ area in the Toolbar.

This area permits you to quickly reopen a file recently opened with this program. To open a file simply click on it in the list. You can also specify a new file by typing its filename in the edit area and just hit ‘enter’. This feature is accessible only if you have chosen to use an ‘Internet Explorer®’ like toolbar


Click this to empty the Recently Used list.


Specifies the full path to the AX-Icons librarian location. You can change this path. However, your change will occur the next time you launch AX-Icons.


Changes the horizontal or vertical space between icons in system lists.


Displays desktop icons using all the colors supported by your current display and your color palette settings.

Important: To display icons using 256 or 16.8 million colors you must change your display settings to Hi Color (65536 colors) or True Colors (16.8 M colors).


If this box is checked, a small arrow is displayed on Shortcut icons (bottom left corner). If it is not checked, the arrow is hidden


Windows has an internal cache to manage images of all the icons it displays. Sometimes this internal icon cache is corrupted and icons displays incorrectly. By clicking on this button you force Windows to rebuild its internal icon cache and solve the problem


Click to create to create a new 16x16 image format in the icon.


Click to create to create a new 32x32 image format in the icon.


Click to create to create a new 48x48 image format in the icon.


Click to create to create a new 64x64 image format in the icon.


Click to create to create a new 72x72 image format in the icon.


Click to create a new Monochrome image format in the icon. This new image will have only 2 colors (black and white).


Click to create a new 16 Color image format in the icon. This new image will have the system standard palette (16 colors).


Click to create a new 256 Color image format in the icon with automatic Dithered Color Palette. This new image will have a fixed palette (256 colors). Ordered dithering will produce colors. To produce smoother gradient, select 256 Colors with Indexed option.


Click to create a new 256 Color image format in the icon with Indexed Color Palette. You will be able to modify this palette to produce smoother gradients. To get an automatic fixed palette, select 256 Colors with Dithered option.


Click to create a new 18.8M Color image format in the icon (True Colors – no palette).

Warning: This option will produce the best results with fantastic gradients but may be incompatible with some display drivers. To produce full compatible images with good gradients, select 256 Colors with Indexed Color Palette option


Click to create to create a new image format in the icon with a custom size. You can create an image with height and width from 8 to 256 pixels. Width and Height may be different to create a non-square image.


Specifies the Width of the new image format in pixels. It allows you to specify a custom width for the image. If you check the Square aspect option, the height value will automatically change with width to make a square image.


Specifies the Height of the new image format in pixels. It allows you to specify a custom height for the icon. If you check the Square aspect option, the width value will automatically change with height to make a square icon.


Click to create image format in the icon with a custom size but Square Aspect (Width equal to Height).


Allows you to see the image formats that already exist in the icon. You can double-click on an existing image format to open it in the editor window.


Click to paste the contents of the clipboard in the upper left corner of the editor area without stretching the image. If the image is bigger than the editor area, it will be cropped.

Remark: The image is automatically converted according the number of colors of the icon.


Click to paste the contents of the clipboard in the upper left corner of the editor area. If the image is bigger than the editor area it will be reduced, if it is smaller it will be enlarged.

Remark: The image is automatically converted according the number of colors of the icon.


Click to paste the contents of the clipboard in the selected area without stretching the image. If the image is bigger than the selected area it will be cropped.

Remark: The image is automatically converted according the number of colors of the icon.


Click to place the contents of the clipboard in the selected area. If the image is bigger than the selected area it will be reduced, if it is smaller it will be enlarged.

Remark: The image is automatically converted according the number of colors of the icon.


Specifies the new name for the selected library.

Hint: There is a faster way to rename a library. Simply click a second time directly in the Librarian tree. Type the new name and hit Enter.


Displays the icon(s) that you are going to delete.

Warning: This operation cannot be undone! If you click DELETE, you will not be able to undelete your icon(s).


In this area you can read a new Tip of the Day each time you run the program or click on Next Tip.


Click to read an introduction to AX-Icons 4.5


Click to display the table of contents and index for the online documentation.


Click to display the next Tip of The Day.


Click to visit Axialis Web site on the Internet http://www.axialis.com (products, news, support, download, free stuff)


Check this box if you don’t want AX Icons to open this window at startup. This option can be restored in the ‘Preferences’ dialog box.


Shows a list containing the image formats that exist in the icon. You can double-click on an image format to open it in the editor window.


Specifies the Full Pathname of the Executable file to produce at compilation. This file will be a stand alone executable that you will be able to redistribute freely (see Copyright notice below). The file must have the .EXE extension. If the file exists it will be overwritten.


Click to Browse and Select an existing Executable file (to overwrite). You can also Select a directory and type the name of the file. The full pathname (including the .EXE extension) will be automatically placed in the Pathname edit zone.


Displays a Title text for the compiled library. This text appears each time the compiled library starts.


Displays a Copyright/Credits text for the compiled library. This text appears each time the compiled library starts.


Opens a dialog box about icons Copyright.


Displays the list of icons to be compiled.


Displays the list of icons to be renamed.


Specifies the new name for the icons. Icons will be automatically indexed. For example Arrow will be indexed: Arrow 1, Arrow 2, … Arrow n.


Displays the image format to delete in the icon.

Warning: This operation cannot be undone! If you click DELETE, you will not be able to undelete the image format.


Displays the Icon to be renamed.


Specifies the new name for the icon.


Displays the icons in the library to be deleted.

Warning: This operation cannot be undone! If you click DELETE, you will not be able to undelete the library and all the icons will be lost.


Specifies the new name of the folder.


Specifies the text to add in the image.


Selects the font to apply to the text.


Specifies the Size desired for the text in points.


Specifies the Bold attribute for the selected font. It can be combined with the Italic attribute.


Specifies the Italic attribute for the selected font. It can be combined with the Bold attribute.


If this box is checked, you will repair the association of AX-Icons with ICO files. It means that you will be able to launch an icon file in AX-Icons with a simple double-click from the Windows Explorer.


If this box is checked, you will repair the association of AX-Icons with ICL library files. It means that you will be able to launch an icon library file in AX-Icons with a simple double-click from the Windows Explorer.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons will not prompt you and bad file associations will be ignored. This option can be restored in the ‘Preferences’ dialog box.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons will repair bad file association at start-up. If the box is not checked, AX-Icons will prompt you.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically creates a new icon (32x32 16 colors) each time it starts.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you for an image format each time you create a new icon. If this box is not checked, AX-Icons automatically creates a new 32x32 16 color image format.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you before saving libraries (in the librarian only). If this box is not checked, AX-Icons automatically saves any changes.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons minimize use of system resources when displaying icons in lists. If this box is not checked, AX-Icons displays icons faster in lists by using a memory cache (which is memory consuming).


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically maximize document windows at opening.


Specifies the pattern used to display Transparent and Inverted colors in editor window


Allows you to specify a background color for editor window.


Allows you to specify a custom color for Transparent/Inverted area in editor window.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you to choose an option each time you perform a clipboard paste operation. If this box is not checked, AX-Icons automatically paste the image at scale 1:1 in the upper-left corner of the editor area.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons adds a shade effect behind the edit area in editor windows.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons activates automatic zoom when opening a new editor window.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically shows the grid when opening a new editor window.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons displays a warning message each time you edit an image format which exceeds your display capabilities.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you to create a new document if you try to open a file that does not exists. It happens when you specify a new filename directly in the “Recent” combo box or if an old document has been removed.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons displays an information window each time you open a program file (EXE, DLL, OCX…).


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically opens the welcome window and display a new Tip of The Day each time it starts.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you when it starts if ICO or/and ICL files are not properly associated with it. If this box is not checked, AX-Icons will ignore bad file association.

Remark: It is highly recommended to associate ICO and ICL with AX-Icons to permit fast cursor/library access from Windows Explorer.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons prompts you at startup if the Windows component named ComCtl32 v4.72 is missing or has an older version. AX-Icons includes a special feature that permits you to use a built-in “Internet Explorer like” toolbar. ComCtl32 v4.72 or more must be installed in order to use this very useful toolbar. You can install this component directly from this warning window.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons warns you if your display configuration is insufficient (16 or less color displays) each time it starts.


Resizes the system icons to 32x32 pixels.


Resizes the system icons to 48x48 pixels.


Resizes the system icons to 64x64 pixels.


Resizes the system icons to 72x72 pixels.


Changes the horizontal space between icons in system lists.


Changes the vertical space between icons in system lists.


Displays desktop icons using all the colors supported by your current display and your color palette settings.

Important: To display icons using 256 or 16.8 million colors you must change your display settings to Hi Color (65536 colors) or True Colors (16.8 M colors).


If this box is checked, a small arrow is displayed on Shortcut icons (bottom left corner). If it is not checked, the arrow is hidden.


Windows has an internal cache to manage images of all the icons it displays. Sometimes this internal icon cache is corrupted and icons displays incorrectly. By clicking on this button you force Windows to rebuild its internal icon cache and solve the problem.


This list allows you to select the desktop icon you want to change


Click to Browse and Select an existing icon file on disk and change the selected Windows desktop icon.

Hint: To change a Windows icon, you can directly perform a Drag & Drop from an icon in a library or a program to the desired icon in the list.


Click to return to default icon for the selected Windows icon.


This list allows you to select the standard icon you want to change.


Click to Browse and Select an existing icon file on disk and change the selected Windows standard icon.

Hint: To change a Windows icon, you can directly perform a Drag & Drop from an icon in a library or a program to the desired icon in the list.


Click to return to default icon for the selected Windows icon.


Click to create to create a new 16x16 icon


Click to create to create a new 32x32 icon


Click to create to create a new 48x48 icon


Click to create to create a new 64x64 icon


Click to create to create a new 72x72 icon


Click to create a new Monochrome icon. This new icon will have only 2 colors (black and white).


Click to create a new 16 Color icon. This new icon will have the system standard palette (16 colors).


Click to create a new 256 Color icon with automatic Dithered Color Palette. This new icon will have a fixed palette (256 colors). Ordered dithering will produce colors. To produce smoother gradient, select 256 Colors with Indexed option.


Click to create a new 256 Color icon with Indexed Color Palette. You will be able to modify this palette to produce smoother gradients. To get an automatic fixed palette, select 256 Colors with Dithered option.


Click to create a new 18.8M Color icon (True Colors – no palette).

Warning: This option will produce the best results with fantastic gradients but may be incompatible with some display drivers. To produce full compatible icons with good gradients, select 256 Colors with Indexed Color Palette option.


Click to create to create a new icon with a custom size. You can create an icon with height and width from 8 to 256 pixels. Width and Height may be different to create a non-square icon.


Specifies the Width of the new icon in pixels. It allows you to specify a custom width for the icon. If you check the Square aspect option, the height value will automatically change with width to make a square icon.


Specifies the Height of the new icon in pixels. It allows you to specify a custom height for the icon. If you check the Square aspect option, the width value will automatically change with height to make a square icon.


Click to create icon with a custom size but Square Aspect (Width equal to Height).


Check this box if you always want to create a new icon based on the default settings without opening this window. If unchecked, this option can be restored in the ‘Preferences’ dialog box.


Click to save current dialog settings as default settings. Default settings are used to create new icons without prompting (if you check Do not prompt in the future).


Enter here you first and last name (required to personalize the application).


Enter here you e-mail (required to register electronically).


 (Static)   > Displays the full pathname of the bitmap to import.


This area permits you to select a portion of bitmap to import.


Specifies the left position of the selected area in pixels.

If you manually change this value the selected rectangle will move accordingly in the picture preview area.


Specifies the top position of the selected area in pixels.

If you manually change this value the selected rectangle will move accordingly in the picture preview area.


Specifies the width of the selected area in pixels.

If you manually change this value the selected rectangle will move accordingly in the picture preview area.


Specifies the height of the selected area in pixels.

If you manually change this value the selected rectangle will move accordingly in the picture preview area.


 (Static)   > This area permits you to select a portion of bitmap to import.


This area permits you to specify a transparent color by clicking directly on the picture preview. The ‘Using a transparent color’ box must be checked if you want to click in this area.


If this box is checked, the specified transparent color and tolerance will be used to automatically create a transparent area during the importation process. If the box is not checked, the bitmap will be imported as is.


Specifies the red component of the ‘transparent’ color. Values from 0 to 255 can be specified. The ‘Using a transparent color’ box must be checked to access this value.


Specifies the green component of the ‘transparent’ color. Values from 0 to 255 can be specified. The ‘Using a transparent color’ box must be checked to access this value.


Specifies the blue component of the ‘transparent’ color. Values from 0 to 255 can be specified. The ‘Using a transparent color’ box must be checked to access this value.


Specifies the tolerance of the ‘transparent’ color. The color tolerance setting determines how close the color of a pixel must be considered as the ‘transparent’ color. Values from 0 to 100 can be specified (20% is generally a good value). The ‘Using a transparent color’ box must be checked to access this value.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically shows a local toolbar when opening an icon editor window.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically shows a local toolbar when opening an icon library window.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons automatically shows a local toolbar when opening a program window.


Specifies whether you want AX-Icons to display its main toolbar using an ‘Internet Explorer®’ style. You must have installed the Windows component named ComCtl32 v4.72 (or a newer version) in order to access this feature. If the box is not checked, AX-Icons will display a standard toolbar.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons uses a background bitmap as a wallpaper in the Toolbar. This feature is accessible only if you have chosen to use an ‘Internet Explorer®’ like toolbar and if your actual display is Hi Colors (65636 colors) or True Colors (16.8M colors).


Specifies whether you want AX-Icons to display a text under each button in the toolbar. This feature is accessible only if you have chosen to use an ‘Internet Explorer®’ like toolbar.


Specifies whether you want AX-Icons to display an animation in the toolbar. This feature is accessible only if you have chosen to use an ‘Internet Explorer®’ like toolbar.


If this box is checked, AX-Icons displays a ‘Recently Used’ area in the Toolbar.

This area permits you to quickly reopen a file recently opened with this program. To open a file simply click on it in the list. You can also specify a new file by typing its filename in the edit area and just hit ‘enter’. This feature is accessible only if you have chosen to use an ‘Internet Explorer®’ like toolbar


Click this to empty the Recently Used list.


Displays the name of the current document as it will appear in the Favorite List. You can change the name.


Displays the name of the document as it appears in the Favorite List. You can change the name and click OK.


Displays the list of favorite documents. You must select here the document you want to change or remove from the list.


Click here to change the name of the selected document (you will change the name that appears in the list, not the filename).


Click here to remove of the selected document from the list (you will delete the file on the disk).


Specifies the full path to the AX-Icons librarian location.

You can change this path. However, your change will occur the next time you launch AX-Icons.


Click here to browse your disks and specify the new location of the librarian.


Click here to install the ComCtl32 v4.72 component now. Once the installation is finished you must restart your computer (highly recommended).


Shows a preview of the text to add (with font, size and attributes).


If this box is checked, AX-Icons will not prompt you if a component is missing. This option can be restored in the ‘Preferences’ dialog box.