Copyright: Copyright © 2000-2003 Gladiatros Software


About
About Aston

Aston is a product of Gladiators Software.

Authors (Idea, design, programming): Oleg Bulychov, Nick Egorov.

Graphics: Dmitry Prosvirnin.

Additional Support: Pavel Kormishin, Paul Nikonoff.

If you have access to the Internet, be sure to visit Gladiators Software homepage. You can download the latest versions and updates of Aston as well as some other cool programs and themes, plugins,utilities for Aston.

URL:http://www.astonshell.com

E-mail address for information, feedback, suggestions, bug reports, support etc:

mailto:support@astonshell.com


Animated icons
Animated icons (NEW!!!)

Ank - this file defines animation of desktop element for different user's actions. It uses *.ani & *.anim file or set of frames in *.bmp file (*.anim - animated icon, *.ani - cursor). You can use a new utility - "Animmaker" (from our website) - for it creation.

For new *.ank file you have to add a new element on your Desktop. You should use only 1-st icon - this is a path to your *.ank file.

If this file doesn't exist it'll be created automatically in "Objects" folder, with file name in the path. As soon as we put ank extension of the file it'll be enabled an "ank settings" button.

There are 4 states - Normal, MouseOver, MouseLeave & Clicked.

If you click on the state you'll see its settings. All these states have the same settings:

Path - path to your *.ani, *.anim or *.bmp file.(it must be written if you want to enable this state)

Frames - frames amount. It's determined  automatically for *.ani & *.anim and you have to define it manually for *.bmp.

Animation - frames' list which define element's animation. List is defined by number sequence (for example: 0,1,2,5,6,7) or by intervals (for example: 0-2,5-7). It's also possible to invert the direction of animation: 7-5,2,2,2,1,0

Loop - frame number from animation list for looping. If you don't use loop then set Loop = -1.

Interval - interval between frames (1 = 20 ms).


Aston
Cool Shell Replacement


Aston Boot
Aston: Boot process configuration

Boot process configuration:

Applications' Autoload - turns automatic start of Windows "StartUp" and registry applications on/off.

Auotload from WIN.INI - turns automatic start of Windows applications from "win.ini" on/off.

Now (ver 1.9+) Aston uses system autorun for CD/DVD in Windows 2K/XP

Note: If CD autorun function doesn't work, enable autorun.plg plug-in (Disable plug-in if autorun triggers twice).

Tip: Press and hold down the "Shift" key to prevent autorun and autostart!

Restore wallpaper on exit - for compatibility with Windows Desktop, because Aston uses its own Desktop and Wallpaper. If you plan to use Aston permanently then you should turn this option off (it will decrease boot and shutdown time).

Path to configuration file (Aston.rc) - readonly. It's just path to configuration file.

Path to Pictures folder - path to icons and pictures' folder. We recommend to use "Pictures" folder for all Aston's graphics. It makes Aston run faster and systematize hard disk's information.

Create User profile (ver. 1.5+) - now, users can customize their settings. Aston switches to your personal settings when you log on. The configuration files are stored in %Aston%\users\%Username% folder.


Aston Clock

Aston Clock

DESCRIPTION:

This plugin is the last generation analog clock plugin for Aston. Being a successor of DCClock and XPClock plugins it keeps all their features, having much greater functionality. Many of its features are unique and cannot be seen in other applications.

CONFIGURATION:

Here's a brief explanation of plugin's configuration. Read it carefully before asking any "howto" questions.

WINDOW SETTINGS:

Z-Order: defines clock position. You can select one of these values: Desktop (clock is build-in into Desktop), Normal (clock window behaves, like an ordinary window), and Always on top modes X and Y: define horizontal and vertical clock screen coordinate (if you need to set these values accurately)

Lock Mode:

- Lock Window enable this mode if you need to lock plugin's window

- Hide on mouse over enable this mode if you need to hide clock window, when you place mouse cursor above it

- Ghost mode is a completely new feature, that allows you not only see through your clock, but make it completely "transparent" for the user: you can even click "through" it; if you need to access a plugin, hold down SHIFT button before clicking plugin window

ANALOG CLOCK SETTINGS:

ShowSecond: display second hand

SRadius, MRadius and HRadius: lengths of second, minute and hour hands

SWidth, MWidth and HWidth: second, nimute and hour widths in pixels

CenterOffsetX and CenterOffsetY: these values are used for non-symmetric skins, when it's needful to displace clock center to a certain value

Color: hands' color value in HEX

Shadow: enable/disable hands' shadow

ShadowColor: shadows' color in HEX

Skin: path to background skin

GlassSkin: path to foreground (glass) skin; this skin is located above background skin and hands

HandSkin: path to hand skin (see details below)

DRAW DATE SETTINGS:

ShowDate: enable/disable date display

DateFont: font name and properties, used for date field display

FontColor: date font's color in HEX

Shadow: enable/disable shadow under date text

DateX and DateY: position of date field

DateFormat: format of date display:

--------------------------------

Date Format Elements:

d	Day

dd	Day (two digits)

ddd	Day name (abbreviated)

dddd	Day name (full)

M	Month

MM	Month (two digits)

MMM	Month name (abbreviated)

MMMM	Month name (full)

y	Year (one digit)

yy	Year (two digits)

yyyy	Year (four digits)

--------------------------------

Time Format Elements:

hh	Hour (1-12)

2h	Hour (two digits 01-12)

HH	Hour (0-23)

2H	Hour (two digits 00-23)

mm	Minute

2m	Minute (two digits)

ss	Second

2s	Second (two digits)

t	Short time marker (A or P)

tt	Long time marker (AM or PM)

--------------------------------

Example: hh:2m:2s (ddd, d MMM yyyy) = 8:05:07 (Thu, 1 Jan 2003)

Transparency: plugin's transparency

IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT SKINS:

Plugin skins (glass, hand and background) should have the same size in order to be positioned correctly. Skins' align is based on top-left point of their bitmaps. You can use BMP or PNG transparency if needful. Background skin is the buttom player, which usually displays clock background and numbers. Hand skin is usually a circle, which is used to "cut" hands out of it. For example, if you fill this area with gradient, you'll be able to get gradient hands. Just remember, that it reflects all hand positions, not a single one, so if you need to have a solid hand, just use color value in plugin's settings. Glass skin is a foreground skin, which is located above hands and background. You can make it semitransparent to give your clock a look of a real glass. It can bo used for creating many other FX.

This clock plugin is a huge field for your own experiments, which are mainly limited by your imagination.


BrowseNewProcess
Allow multiple instances of IE4.x,5.x,6.x,...


Configuration files' structure

All the main Shell's parameters placed at the special *.rc files. Aston do not use Windows registry, so after Windows reinstall you shouldn't reinstall Aston. Its configuration will be saved. There are three configuration files.

Aston.rc - main shell configuration file. It contains information about Desktop, Toolbars, Taskbar, Main menu, Plug-ins, Hotkeys, LiteStep's plug-ins settings, System settings.

Plugins.rc - plug-ins configuration file. Every plug-in has its own section and modifies its data.

Tips.rc - Day's useful tips on a taskbar.

Aston.rc format

Plugins.rc format

Tips.rc format


Desktop

You can place some icons on it. They can have any shape, any size, any color. It's possible to use *.ico and *.bmp files as icons. Also, we provide animated icons and at a time you place the cursor to such an icon it starts to "live". Animated icons are files of "animated cursor" (*.ani). There are three states of any icon:

1) normal;

2) highlighted (cursor over the icon);

3) pressed.

In a case of animated icon, states 2&3 are disabled because of their uselessness.

Mouse drag&drop of the icons provided. You can change, delete icons and so on.

Sometimes you want to start an application from the Windows Desktop but, instead of this, you moved or renamed an icon. It is impossible with Aston because mouse sensitivity for drag&drop is an adjustable parameter. So the icon will move only in a case you moved it to a space longer than adjusted.

You can "lock" the icons (ver. 1.5+). To drag a locked icon, press and hold down the "Shift" key before.

There are two ways to start an application, by single or double mouse click. You can use transparent color as a background of an icon's name. It's really looks better than these boxes at Windows Desktop. One of Aston desktop's features is an icon name's highlighting when you place mouse's cursor to an icon (likewise Active Desktop of the Windows'98+). There is just one snag to it. Aston can take an icon's shape into account, so you can place two icons by such a way:

Desktop can move to the top of all the windows (by the use of a hotkey, or by left click on aston's tray icon) and hide away. It quickly lets you to access desktop icons.

If "Doubleclick opening" option disabled but you pushed mouse button two times - it's not terrible. The program will not start two times cause Aston just apprehend it as a single click.


Desktop Process
Allow multiple instances of explorer (Windows NT/2000/XP only)


Desktop Properties

Desktop properties:

Transparent text's background - transparent background at icons' text.

Doubleclick opening - starts an application by mouse's doubleclick.

Highlighting - icons' highlighting&animation on the desktop.

Show cursor - show cursor when dragging an icon.

Mouse sensivity - mouse sensivity when moving an icon.

Wallpaper - desktop wallpaper's picture and arrangement.

Colors - icons' titles colors.

Arrange icons - arrange icons on the desktop.

Font - specifies the font to use for icon titles.

Get explorer icons - you can get icons from windows desktop.


Explorer
Common Windows Desktop and Shell


FAQ

1. How do I apply the themes?

2. I have registered Aston, but have not received my registration key. What should I do?

3. A message like this appeared after Windows9x/ME restart:

"Windows cannot find ...\aston.exe

You must reinstall Windows"

What is to be done?

4. How do I switch back to the standard windows explorer shell?

5. How to set Aston as a default shell?

6. When starting Explorer a message: "My Computer or Windows Explorer has  not  been properly initialized yet. Try again later" appeared. Or second IE4-6 copy (process) doesn't start.

7. Why does cursor blink when it points to an animated icon?

8. How big can animated picture be?

9. I want to setup anything manually. How can I do this?

10. Some program or driver works incorrectly with Aston. What is to be done?

11. I want to change skin or any other main menu's parameter. Is it possible?

12. How can I make DOS program to close its window after exiting?

13. How to make multi-user support in Windows 9x?

14. Why an icon on the desktop does not remove to Recycle Bin?

15. How to install a new plug-in?

16. How can I remove a theme?

1. How do I apply the themes?

To install a new theme:

- Unzip the downloaded file to %aston%\themes\name_of_theme  folder (use WinZip or some-like).

- Run "Themes Wizard" (thwizard.exe in %aston% folder).

- Select the theme, options, then click the "Preview" ("OK") button.

2. I have registered Aston, but have not received my registration key.

What should I do?

 Sometimes the e-mail address is incorrectly entered in the registration form and the e-mail with the key is bounced back as undeliverable. If you haven't received your registration key within 36 hours, write to support@astonshell.com from your primary e-mail address.

3. A message like this appeared after Windows9x/ME restart:

"Windows cannot find ...\aston.exe

You must reinstall Windows"

What is to be done?

Do not reinstall anything, just set correct path to shell in "system.ini" file (in MS-DOS mode). You can do it like this:

1. Reboot in MS-DOS mode (press and hold down F8 or Ctrl when booting), choose "Command Prompt Only"

or

1. Use the boot diskette or CD-ROM.

2. Start SHSwDos.exe from Aston's folder, choose Explorer or Aston. Reboot.

or

2. Edit file %windowsdir%\system.ini, find [boot] section. In the line "shell=..." write correct path to existing shell. For example:

shell=explorer.exe

3. Save the file and reboot.

Do not remove Aston while using Aston as shell! Switch back to the explorer, then use "Add/Remove Programs" option of Control panel.

4. How do I switch back to the standard windows explorer shell?

Run Shell Swapper from MainMenu->Programs->Aston, or from Aston's folder. Select "Explorer". In the MS-DOS mode, use SHSwDos.exe.

5. How to set Aston as a default shell?

Run Shell Swapper from MainMenu->Programs->Aston, or from Aston's folder. Select "Aston". In the MS-DOS mode, use SHSwDos.exe.

6. When starting Explorer a message: "My Computer or Windows Explorer has not been properly initialized yet. Try again later" appeared. Or second IE4-6 copy (process) doesn't start. What is to be done?

Start ShellSwp.exe and set DesktopProcess = 1. For IE4-6 set a option BrowseNewProcess = YES. This allows multiple instances of explorer.

7. Why does cursor blink when it points to an animated icon?

Cursor blinking does not depend neither from Aston nor from video RAM size. Maybe your video card does not support hardware cursors. But almost all video cards support two-colored hardware cursors so try to change cursor. Also, it may be a driver problem or incorrect video settings.

8. How big can animated picture be?

256x256 pixels.

9. I want to setup anything manually. How can I do this?

Just edit configuration files aston.rc and plugins.rc. Their format is described here.

10. Some program or driver works incorrectly with Aston. What is to be done?

First, look if this program should not work with Aston. There are usually Windows Explorer enhancements like wallpaper changers, Systray clocks, etc. Necessarily check if this program works with Explorer Shell. So, if the problem does not disappear, contact that program's author. Otherwise, mail us.

11. I want to change skin or any other main menu's parameter. Is it possible?

Because of main menu is not a part of shell, but just a plug-in then its properties, possibilities and appearance are different with different plug-ins. So, for any parameter's modification look for "Plug-ins" property sheet at A-Master, choose needed plug-in and modify its properties.

12. How can I make DOS program to close its window after exiting?

Search  for  this  *.exe or *.bat program on your disk and modify its

properties. Check the box "Close window after exiting".

13. How to make multi-user support in Windows 9x?

You should do something like this:

1. Make a different folder for every user. Place Aston.exe, a-master.exe, printmon.exe, thwizard.exe, starter.dll, hook.dll, *.rc files there.

2. Change configuration files by the way like this:

===============Config.sys===============

[MENU]

MENUITEM=User1,User-Nick

MENUITEM=User2,User-Oleg

MENUITEM=User3,User-Bill

[User1]

[User2]

[User3]

[Common]

...

=======================================

==============Autoexec.bat==============

...

goto %config%

:User1

C:\Aston\SHSWDOS.EXE -fc:\Aston\Aston.exe

goto end

:User2

C:\Aston\SHSWDOS.EXE -fc:\Aston2\Aston.exe

goto end

:User3

rem Bill will use explorer

C:\Aston\SHSWDOS.EXE -e

:end

=======================================

14. Why an icon on the desktop does not remove to Recycle Bin?

For this time, Recycle Bin is for files only.

15. How to install a new plug-in?

To install a new plug-in:

- Unzip the downloaded file to %aston%\plugins folder (use WinZip or some-like).

- Run "A-master" (a-master.exe in %aston% folder).

For *.plg-files:

- Select "Plug-ins" tab, then click the "Add" button. Select the plug-in file .

For *.tbp-files (and Litestep's "wharf" plug-ins):

- Select "Left(right) toolbar" tab, then click the "Add an element" button, "Program". Click ">>" button, the choose the plug-in (as a application). Object type must be chosen automatically.

16. How can I remove a theme?

Run "Themes Wizard", right-click on the theme, select "Delete theme". Don't remove any theme when it's in use.


Hotkeys

Quick start of any program or function is possible with use of a hotkey - predefined key's combination. This combination must contain one or more special keys (Alt, Ctrl, Shift, Win) and any other key.

It's permissible to assign a big amount of hotkeys, but use only part of them. It's not recommended to use very many hotkeys because it can harm you when some unexpected application starts in a time you just pressed "Ctrl+S" in MS-Word. So, in other words, it's recommended to set a combination which is not used in other applications.

Hotkey for an application on a toolbar or desktop can be set just at its shortcut. So, hotkey's table is the same for all Shell's elements.


How to make a new button

How to make a new button (for the "Aston Desktop" theme):

1 - Execute MSPaint.

2 - Left-click the "A" button (left toolbar, hint: "Text").

3 - Place new text label on the blank picture (with white background). You can resize the labels!

4 - Select a font (e.g. Ast126, size == 6).

5 - Click in the text area, then write anything.

6 - Left-click the "Select" button.

7 - Select a text (just hold down left button, move the mouse over a text, then release button).

8 - "Edit" - "Copy".

9 - "File" - "Open" - "C:\ASTON\themes\AstonDesktop\OtherIcons\1.bmp"

10 - Un-check "Image"-"Draw Opaque" option!!!

11 - "Edit" - "Paste" (use drag'n'drop to move a text).

12 - "File" - "Save As" - "new button 1.bmp" (or some-like).

Repeat steps 9-12 for

"C:\ASTON\themes\AstonDesktop\OtherIcons\2.bmp"

(save as "new button 2.bmp")

              and for

"C:\ASTON\themes\AstonDesktop\OtherIcons\3.bmp"

(save as "new button 3.bmp").

Congratulations! You have done the new button ;-)

Now you can add new button to desktop.


How to make a theme
How to make a new theme?

First, you need to setup Aston in a way how it should look like after choosing your theme.

Theme can contain such a things:

- desktop wallpaper;

- left and right toolbars' skins;

- skins for "Start" button, taskbar, taskbar buttons (note that they have three states), quick launch bar, tray, clock;

- menu skins;

- system colors and preferences (from "Screen Setup" dialog);

- cursors ("Control Panel" -> "Mouse");

- system icons;

- plug-ins;

- desktop buttons and icons.

Use "Theme's element" option to include it to theme.

Unlike Explorer which uses only squared icons of fixed sizes, Aston icons sized up to 256x256 pixels of any shape. Also it is possible to compose an icon from up to three bitmap (BMP) files for common, highlighted and pressed state. Moreover, an icon can be an animated (ANI) file which starts to play when you place cursor on the icon.

Transparent color for bitmap files contains that components: red=255, green=0, blue=255 (#FF00FF).

Toolbar skin contains of one bitmap (BMP) file which includes 13 horizontal cells.

First cell is a mask for an element which includes sub-elements (as like 3_dots.xpm from AfterStep).

Next three cells lays under first level's elements at a normal, highlighted and pressed states accordingly. Warning! Transparent color is supported here, but in Win 2000/XP only.

So 5 to 7 is for second level's elements, 8-10 & 11-13 - for third (down and up). You can use transparent color in this positions.

Any picture editor can be used to create all of these graphical elements. Animated icons creates with any cursors editor, for example AXCursor (TM).

Then, at a time you set up Aston, run Theme Wizard (%Aston%\thwizard.exe). Click the "New theme" button, write theme's name, description, set options, then click the "Create" button. New theme will be created in %Aston%\Themes\%Theme's name% folder.

You can also create a new theme by saving your changes to an existing theme with a new name.


Important information regarding transparency

Important information regarding transparency of elements under Aston.

This document will take the following format:

 1. Description and explanation of the issue concerned

 2. Legal Liability Waiver

 3. Instructions on avoiding the issues raised

1. Description

The Aston shell make use of a feature written into to the sub structure of some versions of Microsoft Windows Operating systems that allows on screen elements to possess a degree of transparency. This allows the user visibility of a portion of the object underneath the "transparent" item. It has come to the attention of Gladiator Software (hereafter described as "The Developers") that under certain circumstances, these transparent items may be caused to rapidly flicker. It is the concern of the developers that this issue not only constitutes a nuisance in regards to performance, but also might possibly pose a risk of seizure, should the specific circumstances for the triggering of this behaviour be met.

The behaviour that is at issue is based upon a range of software too great to list here. Known triggers are java-based applications, video playback applications such as QuickTime, and most other applications that refresh the information displayed on the monitor in a rapid manner. When items such as those described above are loaded, it will typically cause the transparent items to refresh their video output likewise, resulting in a flickering of the video output.

2. Liability

Gladiator Software determines that the above-described behaviour is a function of the underlying operating system as loaded by the end user. Gladiator Software assumes no liability for any illness or injury caused directly or indirectly by the behaviour described. Furthermore, you (the end user) agree to waive all rights of recovery of damages in regards to the above-described behaviour, with respect to Gladiator Software. Indemnification of Gladiator Software does not affect your rights concerning other parties.

3. Interim Solution

It is possible to mitigate the effects of the above-described behaviour, and, whilst limiting the versatility of the Aston shell to some degree, will enable more complete and desirable function for those users affected by this issue. To "work around" this issue, the end user needs to ensure that all elements within the working desktop environment are set to transparency equal to 0%. This includes, but is not limited to the taskbar, start menu, side, top and vert-bar menus, analog clock and other plugins. Each of the aforementioned can be assigned transparency values from within the A-Master.exe program.

Further help may be acquired at http://www.astonshell.com/forum


Introduction

Aston - Desktop manager and Shell replacement for Windows 9x/NT/ME/2000/XP. Aston fully replaces standard Windows Desktop and gives you a great amount of new features.

   It's nice and easy to work at a computer with installed Aston. Aston don't need a very powerful and expensive computer. Also, Aston is much more stable. It needs a little RAM size, few processor resources, so computer system has a very good performance.

System requirements: Pentium, 8Mb RAM, high color video card, mouse.

Main Aston's features:

- nice looking, easy changeable interface;

- detailed setup of any element;

- very simple visual configuring (no need to learn about this complicated *.rc files);

- toolbars of any size with plenty of levels;

- skins for all the elements;

- any size & shape icons, maybe animated;

- plug-ins (Litestep's also);

- hotkeys;

- and so on...

Besides, Aston contains all the main Windows Desktop's elements, like Desktop, TaskBar, Tray, Main Menu, DDE (without it, installers may corrupt), Drag&Drop.

Aston based of fully original code and it is not a clone of any other shell. Program's code was optimized by its size and speed.


List of Files

After you setup Aston, your hard disk should contain this files:

- Aston.exe  - main program;

- A-master.exe - configurer;

- ShellSwp.exe - shell swapper (Aston<->Explorer);

- SHSwDos.exe - shell swapper (MS-DOS version);

- Thwizard.exe - theme creator/changer ("Themes" folder contains this graphic files);

- PrintMon.exe - printer's monitor. Starts automatically when printing;

- Starter.dll è Hook.dll - system dll's;

- Aston.rc - configuration file;

- Plugins.rc - plugin's configuration file.

Deleting of any named files will lead to unstable or incorrect work!

- Tips.rc - "Any day's tips" on a taskbar;

- "Plugins" folder is for additional modules, so-called plug-ins. We strongly recommend to place all the plug-ins into it.

Our distributive contains this plug-ins:

- A_mouse.plg - it calls main menu or/and screen saver with a simple mouse movement to a definite screen's corner;

- MenuEx.plg - main menu;

- Skinclck.plg - taskbar (systray) clock with skins support;

- Cpu95nt.tbp - CPU use monitor;

- Notebk.tbp - comfortable notebook for toolbars, autosave option included;

- Zoom.tbp - magnifying glass for toolbars;

- Qlaunch.plg - quick launch panel on taskbar.

"Pictures" folder contains icons.

"Themes" folder used to store graphical information grouped into themes. You can easy change Aston's appearance with Theme Wizard program.

"Logos" folder contains "logo.sys" files (for win9x only) (copy it to the root of system drive).


Main Menu

Main menu is not an integral part of the shell, but it is linked as a separate plug-in. So, its properties, features, appearance may change. Also, you can shut it down.

Main menu can be started with a common method ("Start" button). Also, it starts with double-click left mouse button on an empty place of a screen (single-click of middle button).

With A_mouse.plg plug-in connected, main menu can be started when mouse pointer comes to a fixed corner of a screen.

Menu setup is a part of taskbar setup.


Plug-ins

Aston's features can be unlimitedly expanded by use of plug-ins.

It is recommended to use special Aston's plug-ins because they can tune up its parameters for a current configuration and use a little RAM size. There is a Litestep's toolbar ("wharf") plug-ins support. Although we do not recommend to use such a thing because these plug-ins have fixed (64x64) window size and usually use too much memory to run.

There are two plug-in types:

1) Common plug-ins (*.plg);

2) Toolbar plug-ins (*.tbp for Aston plug-ins, *.app, *.dll for LiteStep plug-ins (LsVWM.dll, LiteCD.dll, Litein.dll, LsMixer.dll,...)). They are automatically resized to a size of a single toolbar's element.

Warning! We do not guarantee neither stable Aston's functioning, nor anything's safety in a case of use other manufacturer's plug-ins. In a case of any problem, contact plug-in's author.

To get plugin's SDK (Delphi, VC++), visit http://www.astonshell.com/aston/sdk.htm.


Registration

Aston is  SHAREWARE and you must register the program to continue using it after the 30-day trial period.

The registration fee for Aston is US $28.

Why should I register?

You will	never see the "nag" screen. get all new releases of Aston for free. receive full technical support. receive E-mail notifications about product's news and updates.

And after all:

We did our best to make Aston usefull for you and have a lot of ideas to be implemented in future versions but that we won't be able to realize without your support...

See http://www.astonshell.com for more information.


Taskbar

Task Bar - a tool for watching to the running applications, switching between them and so on. Usually places at the bottom edge of the screen. It may contain "Start" button, toolbars, clock and other objects.

Taskbar buttons shows you the windows opened at this time, even if some of them are hidden or placed under other windows. To switch between the applications you just have to press taskbar button. For an active window such an action makes it minimized. Taskbar buttons differs from Windows Desktop's buttons.They change its size bases on running tasks' quantity, it's possible to place skins on a button. And what is more, the can be in a three states:

1) Active task;

2) Inactive task;

3) Minimized task.

Any state can have its own skin. Taskbar can be placed at any edge of the screen. Maybe you will want to place "Start" button on it. Systray (taskbar status area) also places on a taskbar. No doubt, systray position can be changed too.

Aston icon in SysTray is very functional. You can quickly view the desktop by left-click, hide/show the tray icons by middle-click, open the context menu by right-click.


Taskbar Properties

Taskbar properties:

AutoHide - turn it on to hide taskbar at a time you don't use it.

Smooth appearance - for smooth appearance of the taskbar (when AutoHide is on).

Simple Tray's position - with this option turned on Systray places as like in a Windows Desktop, otherwise - at an other side.

Position - sets up an arrangement of the taskbar. In other words, at which edge of a screen it will be placed.

Taskbar size - sets it up. But much more simple to regulate it with the mouse.

Tray icons size - size of tray icons.

Start button setup. Windows Desktop had fixed "Start" button. But with this option you can make your own configuration. Just use any bitmap (*.bmp) file as a button.

Textures - any button on a taskbar can have any of three skins for different states. In the same way possible assign skin for tray and taskbar. Skins are bitmap (*.bmp) files.

Edit tips.rc - you can modify tips.rc.

Colors - color attributes for a bar.

Fonts - font for taskbar buttons. As in the above, three colors for three states.

Add shortcut - show dialog box that enables the user to add a shortcut to the "Programs" group of a main menu.

Remove shortcut - show dialog box that enables the user to remove the shortcut from the "Programs" group of a main menu.

Main menu setup  is very easy.

First menu's element is its header. Menu can have up to three levels. When you add an element to a level higher than current, it automatically transforms to a folder.

You can add an element to any level by pressing the corresponding button. Copy/delete executes by corresponding toolbar's buttons.

You can drag menu item from one location to another.


Toolbar Properties

Left (right) toolbar properties:

Panel hints - show tooltips on/off.

AutoHide left (right) panel - automatically hides left (right) toolbar just after mouse pointer leaves toolbar area or toolbar element starts.

Smooth panel's appearance. Only first level appears smoothly.

Panels on the top of all windows - with this option turned on taskbar and toolbars will be placed above of all windows (even above "always on top" windows).

Change screen size at the left - changes desktop size at the left edge of the screen ("AutoHide left panel" must be off).

Change screen size at the right - changes desktop size at the right edge of the screen ("AutoHide right panel" must be off).

Left panel caption - turns left toolbar's caption (header) on, so you can easy move panel's place. Double-click on caption hides/restores toolbar.

Right panel caption - turns right toolbar's caption (header) on.

Left (right) panel size - left (right) toolbar's element height and width setup (from 24 to 128). If skin support is on then skin must have matching size.

Place on the screen - starting panel's places. Depends on screen's resolution.

Left panel background - left toolbar's skin. It is a bitmap (*.bmp) file with height as an element's height and width equals to 13*(element's width).

Right panel background - right toolbar's skin.

Appearance's delay - delays (in ms.) before panel's appearance. It is used to prevent this appearance when you touch the edge by accident. Delays for second and third levels set as well.


Toolbar's Setup
Toolbar

Toolbar's setup.

Shortcuts, directories, special elements and plug-ins can be placed on a toolbar. Green or yellow triangle indicator at a right-bottom angle of an icon means that it is a "folder".

You just need to place the button at a toolbar to create its first element.

 adds an application, [image] adds a folder. Context menu, which can be called by right-click may be useful to add these elements.

To add an element to a "folder":

1. Choose a "folder" by clicking on it. Triangle indicator will change its color.

2. Add an element by pressing a button on a toolbar or right-clicking on the "folder" and choose Add an element or Add a folder.

To add a next element after a folder at the same level as the folder, but not into the folder:

1. Folder must be unselected (yellow indicator).

2. Right-click on the folder and choose Add an element or Add a folder.

To copy an element to the clipboard, select it and press "Copy" button on a toolbar, or use a right-click context menu on an unselected element.

Paste an element from the clipboard as you add a new element, but only choose "Paste" command.

To delete an element from the clipboard, select it and press "Delete" button on a toolbar, or use a right-click context menu on an unselected element.

You can drag items to the position you want! (ver. 1.5)


Toolbars

Aston has two toolbar panels, which places at the left and right edge of a screen. Unlike Desktop icons, which can be hidden by active windows, toolbar's icons are always accessible. Toolbars' idea was a creature of Steven Jobbs. Panel's width and height can be easily changed, menus has three levels, which opens automatically with a mouse pointer on. They have different colors, different skins. AutoHide option exists. You can place not only shortcuts and other standard elements on a toolbar, but also plug-ins (*.tbp and Litesteps's "wharf" *.dll).

You can disable toolbar by corresponding check box.


Types of Elements
Types of Elements (ver. 1.5+)

Following are the types of elements used in aston.rc file:

00	Folder

01	Application or document

02	"Run..." dialog

03	"Shutdown" dialog

04	Recycle (configuration`s reload)

05	Plugin

06	Default ScreenSaver

07	Show desktop

08	Minimize active window

09	"Delete from menu" dialog

0A	"Add to menu" dialog

0B	Call Main Menu

0C	Clear "Recent"

0D	Screen properties

0E	Empty (no action)

0F	"Files find" dialog (Dir=root)

10	"Computers find" dialog

11	Logoff

12	Parameters setup (A-Master)

14	About

15	Litestep's plugin ("Wharfs" only!)

16	Suspend work

17	Popup Folder (Run=path, Main Menu only)

18	Popup Folder, without subfolders (Main Menu only)

19	Programs (Main Menu only) - obsolete

1A	Programs (common) (Main Menu only) - obsolete

1B	Documents (Main Menu only)

1C	New programs menu (ver.1.5+)

1D	New common menu (ver.1.5+)

1E	Popup control panel (ver.1.5+)

1F	Theme element

21	Popup desktop folder (ver.1.5+)

30	Explore Programs folder

31	Common Main Menu folder

32	Main Menu

33	Common Main Menu

34	Send to

35	Recent

36	Desktop

37	Common desktop

38	Favourites

39	Common favourites

3A	Personal

3B	Open Control Panel

3C	Printers

3D	Recycle Bin

3E	My computer

3F	Network Neighborhood

40	Fonts

41	Internet cache

42	History

43	Internet

70	Lock workstation (2000) / switch user (XP) (ver.1.5+)

FF	Debug Exit


Virtual-Key Codes

The following table shows the hexadecimal values and keyboard equivalents for the virtual-key codes used by the Microsoft Windows operating system. The codes are listed in numeric order.

01	Left mouse button

02	Right mouse button

03	Control-break processing

04	Middle mouse button (three-button mouse)

08	BACKSPACE key

09	TAB key

0C	CLEAR key

0D	ENTER key

10	SHIFT key

11	CTRL key

12	ALT key

13	PAUSE key

14	CAPS LOCK key

1B	ESC key

20	SPACEBAR

21	PAGE UP key

22	PAGE DOWN key

23	END key

24	HOME key

25	LEFT ARROW key

26	UP ARROW key

27	RIGHT ARROW key

28	DOWN ARROW key

29	SELECT key

2B	EXECUTE key

2C	PRINT SCREEN key for Windows 3.0 and later

2D	INS key

2E	DEL key

2F	HELP key

30	0 key

...

39	9 key

41	A key

42	B key

43	C key

44	D key

45	E key

46	F key

47	G key

48	H key

49	I key

4A	J key

4B	K key

4C	L key

4D	M key

4E	N key

4F	O key

50	P key

51	Q key

52	R key

53	S key

54	T key

55	U key

56	V key

57	W key

58	X key

59	Y key

5A	Z key

5B	Left Windows key (Microsoft Natural Keyboard)

5C	Right Windows key (Microsoft Natural Keyboard)

5D	Applications key (Microsoft Natural Keyboard)

60	Numeric keypad 0 key

...

69	Numeric keypad 9 key

6A	Multiply key (Gray *)

6B	Add key (Gray +)

6C	Separator key

6D	Subtract key

6E	Decimal key

6F	Divide key (Gray /)

70	F1 key

71	F2 key

...

87	F24 key 8-( )

90	NUM LOCK key

91	SCROLL LOCK key

BA	;

BB	+

BC	,

BD	-

BE	.

BF	/

C0	~

DB	[

DC	\

DD	]

DE	'


What's New
What's new?

What's new in version 1.9.1?

+ New plugin the "DisksEx", a successor to the "Disks".

+ New plugin the "Panel", a successor to the "Toppanel".

+ New plugin the "RecycleBinEx".

+ New default Theme included.

+ The Aston icon in system tray is now skinnable and removable.

+ Added word wrap option for the Notebook plugin.

* Improved plugins' skin settings.

* Plugins  folder  is now opened by default when adding new plugin in the A-master.

* Fonts folder is now opened by default when adding new Font in the Theme Wizard.

* Fixed bug when saving an AltDesk skin within Aston Theme.

* Recommended resolution is put into comments when saving a Theme.

* Fixed  bug with reading icons for removable devices in the TopPanel and the VertPanel.

* Fixed bug with an error message when removing discs from CD-ROM.

* Fixed bug with rebuilding icons in the Theme Wizard.

* Fixed bug with mouse sensitivity adjustment in the A-master.

* Fixed bug when displaying a Desktop icon whilst dragging.

* Fixed bug when displaying folder names with dot symbol.

* Fixed bug when saving Themes in the Theme Wizard.

* Fixed bug with load default skin in AClock.

What's new in version 1.9?

+ Support for PNG and alpha blending (not only in 2K/XP )

+ Support for 32 bit icons with alpha channel

* Taskbar border is removed (with disabled Autohide and enabled Lock taskbar option)

* Taskbar icons in Windows XP now have transparent background

+ "Native" shadows for text in Windows XP (optional)

* Fixed bug with reading ANK files

* Fixed bug with drag'n'drop to the Quick launch plugin

+ Better support for multimedia keyboards

+ Improved autorun for CD/DVD in Windows 2K/XP, new autorun.plg plugin for Windows NT/9X/ME

+ Autostart is disabled while booting in safe mode

* Improved work of context menu in the Main menu plugin

+ New options for the notebook.plg:

Print & PageSetup commands;

user can set an icon for toolbar item

this icon will be saved in a Theme

* Fixed display/configuration bugs in the vert/top panel plugins

+ New analog clock plugin with numerous advanced features like layered display, date display, new antialiased hands, shadows, "ghost mode", etc... (read plugin's documentation for more info)

Theme Wizard:

+ Themes are now sorted by names

+ Current Theme is highlighted

* Fixed bug with adding fonts

+ AltDesk skin can be saved within Themes now

Aston Master:

* fixed bug with negative coordinates in the plugin settings

+ tooltips for all elements

+ new features to save/load settings and skins of any standalone plugin

What's new in version 1.8?

+ Added: new advanced ANK format for animated icons!!!

+ Added anim files support.

+ A-Master's appearance changed.

+ Added new plug-in "TopPanel".

+ Added skins for toolbars' captions.

+ Added new options "Lock Taskbar".

+ Added context menu setup.

+ Added: font type setup for "Tip of the Day".

+ Added "Panel on the top" and "Smooth toolbar appearance"

  settings are can be different for different toolbars

+ In Win 2000/XP, configuration files can be kept in

...\Documents and Settings\%UserName%\Application Data\Aston\

 folder to support for local and roaming profiles.

* Fixed bugs in ShDoctor.

* Fixed bugs in "Quick launch" panel.

* Fixed bug in "Setup tray icons" dialog.

* Fixed bugs with Theme Wizard with theme creation theme.

* Fixed bug in Main Menu.

What's new in version 1.7?

+ Added: support for jpg files (directly, without converting to bmp).

+ Added: the "Setup tray icons" command.

+ Added: the "Task manager" command to context menu of taskbar (in Win NT/2000/XP).

+ Now you can drag'n'drop icons to the "Quick launch" panel.

+ Added: new "Hint format" option for the "Taskbar clock".

* Fixed: disappearance of icons when change the screen mode.

* Improved algorithm of wallpaper's stretching.

* Fixed bug with the "PopupFolder" menu command.

* Fixed bugs in "Quick launch" panel.

* Fixed bug with non-rectangular shape of toolbars.

* Fixed bug with copying of desktop elements.

* Fixed: flickers applying the theme.

+ Added: tooltips in "Toolbar's setup" dialog.

+ Improved most of plug-ins.

What's new in version 1.6.2?

* Fixed bug: the "stretch skin" option doesn't work in the "Quick launch" panel.

* Creation of shortcuts for the directories is improved.

* Fixed bug: during loading, ..\windows\system folder pops up on the screen.

+ Added: the "Network connections" dialog in Win XP.

* Fixed bug: invalid options cause a crash in the "Theme wizard".

* Fixed bug with installation of the fonts from a theme in Win XP.

* Fixed bug with extracting of an icon from the UPX-executable files.

What's new in version 1.6?

+ Transparency for the menu, taskbar, toolbars in Win2k/XP.

+ New options for the main menu and tasbar.

+ Now, the "StayOnTop" option separate for taskbar and toolbars.

* Fixed bugs with applications' autoload from the registry, the "RunOnceEx" key is now supported (important for IE Setup and Windows Update).

* Fixed bug with transparency in notebook.

+ New context menu for the desktop elements.

* Fixed bug with "Computers' find" in Win NT4, Win98.

* Fixed bug with "application toolbars" in Win XP.

+ Assigned font for the "tip of the day".

* Fixed bugs with some applications: ZoneAlarm, 602 office, "multimedia keyboard" utility.

* Fixed bug in "Popup folder" with long filename.

+ Added new utility SHDOCTOR, which can easy prevent "shell not found" problem in Win9x/ME.

* Fixed bugs with Theme Wizard with theme creation and removal.

+ 256-colors video modes are now supported.

+ Now, "Recyle bin" icon renews automatically in Win 98, (and NT4, Win 95 with IE 4.0 or later).

+ Keyboard layout indicator is now supported XP.

* Fixed bug: the taskbar covers up the portion of screen in "Half-Life".

* Fixed bug with drag'n'drop in main menu setup.

* Fixed bug with "Cut" - "Cancel" in setup.

* Fixed bug with wallpapers' setup.

What's new in version 1.5?

+ Added new powerful "Theme Wizard" (instead of "Theme Creator" and "Theme Manager").

+ No 10 elements limitation in the trial version.

+ New nice interface, Win XP visual style.

+ Built-in themes are replaced.

+ Added new MenuEx.plg (instead of LsMenu & Menu97).

+ Added *.ICL-files support!

+ Added "Network Connection Status" support (Win 2000, XP). Rasmon.exe was removed.

+ The "Start" button can be in a three states.

+ Added the shadows for icon's text.

+ Users can create the own profiles.

+ Added new "Lock" option for the icons on desktop.

* Fixed nasty bug with icon's overlay image!

+ Added Windows icons customization.

+ New button "Edit tips.rc".

+ Added new commands: "Lock Workstation" ("Switch User" in XP), "Show/hide tray icons".

+ Added new menu commands: Popup Contol Panel, Popup Desktop.

+ Now Aston's setup will create the default theme, which is used at uninstall.

* Fixed bug: logon delay in Win XP.

* Fixed bug in PrintMon.

* Fixed several bugs in Shell Swapper.

* Fixed bug with drag & drop on desktop.

* Fixed bug with icon's offset setup.

* Fixed bug with hidden explorers in NT4.

+ Remaked nearly all the plug-ins, improved their functionality (especially, Quick Launch, Terminator, Mail Checker).

* Fixed bug with the "Minimize all" button in the Quick Launch panel.

What's new in version 1.4.0?

+ Support for Windows ME/XP added.

+ "Files find" dialog is able to call with Win ME/2000/XP.

+ "Computer search" dialog is able to call with Win ME/2000/XP.

+ "Fonts", "Network Neighborhood" and "Printers" folders are accessible with Win ME/2000/XP.

* Some bug with tray icons fixed (Win XP).

+ Folders can be opened using Win ME/2000/XP command prompt.

* Some bug with IE fullscreen fixed.

+ TaskManager's "Hide when minimized" option is now works with Win 2000/XP.

+ "Win" key now calls main menu (Win 2000/XP).

+ CPU monitor supports new AMD processors.

+ Options to turn off left/right toolbar added.

+ In Notebook plug-in: Ctrl+A hotkey added ("Select All").

+ Recycle Bin, CD-DISK icons renews automatically (Win ME/2000/XP).

What's new in version 1.2.6?

+ Added command "Empty recycle bin" to context menu of recycle bin.

* Fixed bug with Shell Swapper in Win ME.

* Fixed bug with "Dialup Networking" dialog in Win2000.

* Fixed bug with Audio CD autorun.

* Fixed bug with selecting wallpapers in win2000

* Fixed bug with very long tooltips.

+ Improved setup of toolbars.

What's new in version 1.2.5?

+ Added import explorer icons into Aston.

+ Added context menu for Start button.

+ Added context menu for Main Menu items (Win98,2000 only).

+ Added setting for icons offset in toolbars.

* Fixed bug: taskbar over fullscreen apps.

* Fixed bug with applications' autoload from registry.

* Fixed bug in Main Menu with empty first item.

* Changed algorithm of loading *.bmp (RLE4,8) files.

What's new in version 1.2.4?

+ Added network connections monitor for Win2000.

* Quick launch panel changed, so it resizes automatically depending to icons' quantity.

* Fixed bug in Printmon.

* Enhanced hotkey control.

What's new in version 1.2.3?

+ Now, WIN key can be used in any hotkeys setting.

* Fixed bug with toolbars appearance.

* Fixed bug in "Wallpaper Changer" plug-in.

* Changed plug-ins API format, please download new versions of all plug-ins.

What's new in version 1.2.2:

* Fixed bug with ICQ startup.

* Found bug in Corel Draw (cause a crash) and we made patch for it.

* Fixed bug with executing any *.html files from the local disks in Win2000.

+ Added support for Win2000 systray.

* Changed user interface of Theme Creator.

+ CPU monitor supports more than one processor in WinNT/2000.

+ Added new plug-in - Wallpaper Changer.

What's new in version 1.2.1:

* Fixed bug with long filenames in plug-ins section.

What's new in version 1.2:

+ Added: skin on Taskbar and Systray.

+ Added: partial support for *.scf files.

+ Added: support for "MacVision" shell.

+ Added: double click on taskbar clock show the dialog of adjusting the date and time.

+ Enhanced functional possibilities.

+ Enhanced support for DDE.

+ Vastly raised stability (added: explorer-like exception handler).

+ shswdos.exe - now works at quick computers.

* Changed: algorithm of work with *.ani files (prevents from error on some video cards).

+ In themes possible to include *.jpg files as wallpaper.

+ In themes possible to include the plug-ins' configuration information, system colors and cursors.


aston.rc format

Aston.rc can be modified as a simple text file. It contains some variables which grouped to sections. Section header enclosed in brackets. One line must contain only one variable. In common, file's syntax is like any  *.ini file.

Color variables are in hexadecimal format (color=BBGGRR). Other numbers are decimal.

Font sets as "font=face, size, flag, charset", where

face -  Font name;

size - font size;

flag - bold, italic, underline;

charset - charset.

Icon's path assigns as "Icon = <file path>, <icon's number>".

Some sections differs from *.ini files' sections. They can contain variables of the same name. Such a section looks like a tree with three levels. Attributes of a tree item:

Type = Type;

Run = Application or document;

Dir = Work directory;

1 = Icon  (*.ico, *.ani, *.bmp);

2 = Icon when cursor on an object;

3 = Icon when it is pressed;

Hint = name or hint;

Show = Window state when application starts (default - 1, minimized - 2, maximized - 3)

X, Y = Coordinates (on the desktop)

Key = Hotkey code

Mod = Key modification (ignored for menu):

 0001 = + Win

 0010 = + Shift

 0100 = + Ctrl

 1000 = + Alt

*, **, *** - elements' separators which also set their level. Maximal level is three.

;Comment

{Start comment

Ignored...

}End comment - NOT End comment}

Parameter's names can be shorten to its first letter. Some parameters can be ignored, for example icons in [hotkeys] section.

Example:

=[aston.rc]=======================

;Desktop wallpaper

Wallpaper= %windir%\picture1.BMP

[Aston] "System settings"

;turns automatic start of Windows "StartUp" and registry applications on/off

StartUp = 1

;turns automatic start of Windows applications from "win.ini" on/off

StartINI = 0

;automatic detection of Data CD change and AutoRun file start

CDAutoRun = 1

;automatic detection of Audio CD change and its player start

CDMusicRun = 1

;Delay before toolbar's appearance (in ms.)

ShowDelay = 400

;Delay before second and third level toolbars' appearance (is ms.)

PopupDelay = 100

;smooth appearance of the toolbars

ShowSlide = 1

;restore Windows Desktop wallpaper on exit

RestoreWallpaper=0;

;Auto-hide toolbar's appearance speed

SlideSteps = 12

;Toolbars and taskbar always on top of all windows

AlwaysOnTop = 1

;Enable toolbar hints

EnableHints = 1

;context menus' options:

;NoSetup =	000001

;NoRecycle = 	000010

;NoScreenSetup = 	000100

;NoWinArrange = 	001000

;NoWinMinAll = 	010000

;NoShowDesktop =	100000

;++++++++++++++-+++++++

ContextMenuOpt = 	011000

[ToolLeft]; left toolbar section

;Toolbar background picture. Height=X. Width=13*X.

Skin = c:\aston\themes\cool\lskin.bmp

elements' width (24..128)

;SizeX = 64

;elements' height (24..128)

SizeY = 54

;Icon's displacement from the center of toolbar's element.

XXOffset = 0

XYOffset = 0

YXOffset = 2

YYOffset = 1

ZXOffset = 2

ZYOffset = 0

;Auto hide toolbar from the screen.

AutoHide = 1

;Vertical toolbar's coordinate

YPos      = 68

;Resize desktop when toolbars are not automatically hide

ResizeDesktop = 0

;Show toolbar header

Caption=1

[ToolRight]; right toolbar section

;All the variables are the same as in "ToolLeft"

[Shell]; Taskbar settings section

;Taskbar position: 0 - left, 1 - top, 2 - right, 3 - bottom

Taskbar = 3

;Automatically hide away from screen

AutoHide    = 0

;smooth appearance

ShowSlide = 1

;Taskbar height

BarSize = 2

;Delay before auto-hide taskbar's appearance (in ms.)

ShowDelay = 100

;Auto-hide taskbar's appearance speed

SlideSteps = 12

;Taskbar buttons height

ButtonHeight=22

;Options 	(001 - minimize active task when pressing on its button

;	010 - disable minimize/restore animation

;	100 - "smart" tooltips)

Options = 	001

;Text color

TextColor = FFFF00

;Background color

BackColor = 806060

;Active task button's skin

ActiveSkin=c:\aston\themes\cool\aks.BMP

;Active task button's text color

ActiveTextColor=FFFFFF

;Active task button's font

ActiveFont=Tahoma,8,100,0

;Inactive task button's skin

InactiveSkin=c:\aston\themes\cool\pas.BMP

;Inactive task button's text color

InactiveTextColor=C0F000

;Inactive task button's font

InactiveFont=Tahoma,8,000,0

;Minimized task button's skin

MinSkin=c:\aston\themes\cool\min.BMP

;Minimized task button's text color

MinTextColor=FFFF

;Minimized task button's font

MinFont=Tahoma,12,010,0

;"Start" button skin

StartButton=c:\aston\themes\cool\Start.bmp

;Taskbar skin

BarSkin= c:\aston\pictures\act.bmp

SkinAlign=2

[Plugins];  Plug-ins section

R=c:\aston\plugins\A_mouse.plg

*

T=801;Disabled

R=c:\aston\plugins\Dskclock.plg

*

R=c:\aston\plugins\Menu97.plg

*

[Menu]; Main menu elements' section

;header

h=Main menu

*

t=19

h=Programs

1=c:\aston\pictures\programs.bmp

*

;separator

*

t=11

1=c:\aston\pictures\off.ico

h=logoff...

*

t=3

h= Shutdown

1=c:\aston\pictures\exit.bmp

k=53

*

[Icons]; desktop icons

H=Network

T=3f

1=%windir%\CURSORS\Globe.ani

X=40

Y=140

K=51	;Q

M=1000  	; +Alt

*

Hint=My computer

T=3e

X=40

Y=27

*

r=%TextEditor% c:\aston\aston.rc

d=c:\aston\

1=edit.bmp

h=Manual setup

*

[LeftIcons]; Left panel icons

;As like Icons.

[RightIcons]; right panel icons

;As like Icons.

[Hotkeys];Hotkeys section

Mod = 100;+Ctrl

Key =C0;~

Type =7; Desktop's appearance

*

m =1100 ;Ctrl+Alt

k =2D ;Ins

t =4; recycle

*

[Desktop]; Desktop parameters' section

;transparent background of an icon

Transparent =1

;text color

IconTextColor   = FFFFFF

;Focused icon text color

FocusTextColor   = ff

;Highlighted text color

HilitedTextColor  = ffff

;Start an application with mouse double-click

DoubleClick     = 0

;Highlight icon's text

HiliteText = 1

;Mouse drag&drop sensitivity

DeltaSens   = 6

;Show cursor when icon moves

DragCursor  = 1

;Font

Font=MS Sans Serif,8,000,204

[Litestep] ; litestep's plug-ins emulator for  b23e - b24 versions

;load lsapi.dll for ls b24.x emulation (lsapi.dll MUST be placed at the same directory as Aston)

lsAPIsupport=1

;step.rc MUST be placed in this directory

lsPath=c:\Litestep\

;See "LiteStep readme" for details

lm78Unit=0; 0=°C, 1=°F

lm78MaxCpu=75

lm78MaxMb=50

lm78Cpu=2; 2=Intel, 0=Amd, 1=Cyrix

vwmVelocity=300

VWMDistance=1

usClock=0

VWMNoGathering=1

VWMNoAuto=1

pixmapDir = c:\Litestep\Images\

defaultBmp = default.bmp

vwmBackColor=0

vwmSelBackColor=000000;

vwmForeColor=ffff00;

vwmBorderColor=000000;

[SysTray]; SysTray parameters

; Icon's background color

TrayBackColor  = 800080

;SysTray icon's size

TrayIconSize=16

;Position: 0 - left \ top, 1 - right \ bottom

TrayPos=1

;Skin!

TraySkin=c:\aston\pictures\Act.bmp

SkinAlign=2

[Environment];

;Environment variables are handly to set path to an application, work directory, picture file, plug-in.

;It's also possible to use system variables such as %WinDir%, %HostWinBootDrv%, %TEMP%, %ComSpec%, etc.

;You can not use Environment to set application's parameters.

;Also be careful with final '\'.

;This section is not supported by a-master :-(

h=TextEditor

r=c:\prog\bred2.exe

*

================================


plugins.rc format
Plugins.rc contains plug-ins' configuration information. Every plug-in makes its own section and saves all its information there. When you delete the plug-in it is recommended to delete its section. It will slightly quicken the shell.


tips.rc format
This text file contains "this day's tips" which changes with every start of a program. First line of this file is the current position's number.