Copyright: ToolBar for Windows 95/NT Help Version 5.2 Copyright © 1999 Gregory Braun. All rights reserved.
Citation: Copyright © 1995-1999 by Gregory Braun. All rights reserved.


Introduction
ToolBar for Windows 95/NT

Copyright © 1995-1999 by Gregory Braun. All rights reserved.

Overview

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT is a small utility that provides a quick means of launching your favorite programs from the Windows 95/NT desktop.

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT is fully Y2K compliant and will work with MS Windows 98 as well as 95/NT systems.

Launch & Edit

Click the left mouse button to launch an application, or the right mouse button to configure a new button.

Popup Menu

Click the right mouse button on the last ToolBar button's group name to display a popup menu of the various ToolBar options or to select another button group directly from ToolBar's menu.

Taskbar Tray Access

ToolBar can be optionally configured to use a floating window with taskbar tray access instead of the normal AppBar docking mode. In the taskbar tray mode right-clicking your mouse on the ToolBar icon will display the popup menu in the same manner as pressing the last button on the ToolBar.

Drag & Drop

You can also drag a program file icon or shortcut directly onto the ToolBar to quickly define a button. An option is included to open documents dropped on a button using the program defined for that button as well.

Purchasing ToolBar

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT is a fully functioning program. It is not crippled in any way.

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT is distributed as shareware. You may evaluate it free of charge for 30 days. After 30 days you are required to register it. If after evaluating ToolBar for 30 days you decide not to register it you are required to remove it from your computer.

Registration entitles you to unlimited free updates and support via E-Mail or telephone.

You may also purchase ToolBar for Windows 95/NT using your credit card via the Internet or by telephone.

Button Groups

Ten ToolBar button groups are available for organizing your applications and utilities into customized tool groups. Press the left and right arrows on the last ToolBar button to cycle through your button groups. The arrow keys on the keyboard can also be used to quickly change button groups.

Startup

To have ToolBar launched automatically whenever Windows is started, place a link to it in the Windows 95/NT Start Menu's StartUp Folder.


Installing ToolBar

Installation

To install ToolBar for Windows 95/NT on your computer system simply create a new, empty folder and place the files; TOOLBAR.EXE, TOOLBAR.ICL, TOOLBAR.HLP and TOOLBAR.CNT there.

TOOLBAR.EXE	The ToolBar Application

TOOLBAR.HLP	The Windows 95 Help File

TOOLBAR.CNT	The Windows 95 Help Contents File

TOOLBAR.ICL	The ToolBar Icon Library

TOOLBAR.BMP	ToolBar Desktop Wallpaper.

If you installed ToolBar for Windows 95/NT using the SETUP.EXE program and selected the default installation setting ToolBar for Windows 95/NT will be installed in the C:\Program Files\Software by Design folder.

If you are installing ToolBar for Windows 95/NT on your system for the first time, when you run ToolBar it will automatically create a default set of buttons. You can edit these buttons or create your own.

If you are upgrading ToolBar for Windows 95/NT from an earlier version your previous ToolBar properties and button definitions will be retained.

To integrate ToolBar for Windows 95/NT with the MS Windows Explorer select the ToolBar Setup property sheet while ToolBar is running.

The ToolBar.bmp file that ships with ToolBar for Windows 95/NT can be used as tiled wallpaper on your desktop. This wallpaper image is designed to produce a ¼ inch quadrule desktop on normal 96 dpi monitors.

Note to Previous Users

If you are upgrading from an earlier version of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT make certain the older version is not running before installing the new release. Install the new version in the same folder as the prior version. Your ToolBar Button Settings will be retained and used by the new release.

Warning If you rename the TOOLBAR.EXE file you must also rename the HLP and ICL files using the same basename. For example if you change the ToolBar application file name to NewName.exe, rename the help and icon library files to NewName.hlp and NewName.icl respectively. Do not rename the ToolBar.cnt file however. The HLP, CNT and ICL files must reside in the same folder as the application file itself.


Configuring ToolBar

Configuring ToolBar

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT can be configured by selecting the Options item from the popup menu. A property sheet will be displayed allowing various ToolBar options to be specified.

Floating ToolBar with Tray Access

Check this box to turn the main ToolBar window into a normal floating application window. This option will not take effect until ToolBar is restarted. To restore ToolBar to its normal AppBar docking behavior uncheck this option and restart ToolBar.

Smaller ToolBar Height

Check this box to reduce the size of ToolBar by one button. This option is useful on systems where the Taskbar and the top or bottom of the ToolBar window overlap. This option will not take effect until ToolBar is restarted.

Double Mouse Clicks to Launch Programs

Check this box to require double clicking your mouse on ToolBar buttons to launch programs. If this item is not checked single mouse clicks can be used to launch programs.

Always Hide ToolBar on Button Launches

Check this box to hide the ToolBar window whenever a ToolBar button is pressed to launch a program. If this item is not checked the ToolBar windows can still be hidden for specific buttons by setting the Hide ToolBar on Launch option for individual button definitions.

Confirm ToolBar Exit

Check this box to display a dialog box confirming a ToolBar exit before returning to the desktop.

Log All Program Launches

Check this item to log all program launches in the TOOLBAR.LOG file. This option provides a simple means of recording your computing activities. The TOOLBAR.LOG file can be viewed with any ASCII text editor. The log file will be found in the same folder containing the TOOLBAR.EXE file.

Keep System Information Topmost

Check this item to keep the System Resource Monitor window floating above all other windows on the desktop.

Import

ToolBar button definitions can be loaded from an ASCII text file. The button definition file you specify for import must have been created using the Export function described below. This command is useful if you use ToolBar on multiple computers, or you have several different MS Windows 95/NT login accounts. See the Importing and Exporting ToolBar Buttons section of this help file for a complete discussion of importing button definitions.

Export

ToolBar button definitions can be saved in an ASCII text file. Use this option to save a copy of your current button definitions. This command is useful if you use ToolBar on more than one computer, or you have multiple MS Windows 95/NT login accounts. The button definitions you save can be Imported later on a different machine, or after you have logged in using another login account accounts. See the Importing and Exporting ToolBar Buttons section of this help file for a complete discussion of exporting button definitions.

OK

Press this button when you have completed your selection of ToolBar program options. When you press this button the ToolBar Options property sheet will be closed and your settings will be saved.

Cancel

Press this button to close the ToolBar Options property sheet without making any changes. If you have made any changes to the option settings, and then press this button your changes will not be used, and your previous settings will remain in use.

Help

Press this button to open the ToolBar Help Window and go directly to the Configuring ToolBar topic.

Note The options you have selected will be saved when you press the OK button. The desktop location of the ToolBar Options window itself will also be stored. Your settings will be saved in the MS Windows 95/NT System Registry.


Configuring ToolBar Sounds

Configuring ToolBar Sounds

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT button sounds can be configured by selecting the Options item from the popup menu and then pressing the Sounds tab. A property sheet will be displayed allowing various ToolBar button sound settings to be specified.

Specify a Default Button Launch Sound

Use this entry to specify the default sound file to be used when new ToolBar buttons are created. This entry is also useful if you keep most of your sound files in a single directory. By specifying a WAV file from your sounds folder you will always begin browsing for WAV files in that folder first.

Play Button Launch Sounds

Check this item to play a short “click” sound when a ToolBar button is pressed to launch an application.

OK

Press this button when you have completed your selection of ToolBar sound options. When you press this button the ToolBar Options property sheet will be closed and your settings will be saved.

Cancel

Press this button to close the ToolBar Options property sheet without making any changes. If you have made any changes to the sound settings, and then press this button your changes will not be used, and your previous settings will remain in use.

Help

Press this button to open the ToolBar Help Window and go directly to the Configuring ToolBar Sounds topic.

Note The options you have selected will be saved when you press the OK button. The desktop location of the ToolBar Options window itself will also be stored. Your settings will be saved in the MS Windows 95/NT System Registry.


Configuring ToolBar Groups

Configuring ToolBar Groups

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT Button Groups can be configured by selecting the Options item from the popup menu and then pressing the Groups tab. A property sheet will be displayed allowing various ToolBar Button Groups settings to be specified.

Group

The ToolBar Group list displays the ten button groups that are available. Use the [Up] and [Down] buttons located to the right of the Group list to change the order of the button groups. Use the [Edit] button, or double-click on a tool group name to change the button group name displayed at the bottom of the ToolBar, and on the popup menu. Unchecking the Active box below the group name will disable the entire button group. Disabled groups will not be displayed as you scroll through the available buttons, and the group name will be grayed on the popup menu. Button group zero (0) can not be disabled.

HTML Browser

Enter the name and full path of your HTML Web Browser, or press the browse button [...] to the right of this entry field to select your browser automatically using the standard file explorer dialog box. The application you specify for this item will be used with HTML buttons you define.

OK

Press this button when you have completed your selection of ToolBar program options. When you press this button the ToolBar Options property sheet will be closed and your settings will be saved.

Cancel

Press this button to close the ToolBar Options property sheet without making any changes. If you have made any changes to the option settings, and then press this button your changes will not be used, and your previous settings will remain in use.

Help

Press this button to open the ToolBar Help Window and go directly to the Configuring ToolBar Groups topic.

Note The options you have selected will be saved when you press the OK button. The desktop location of the ToolBar Options window itself will also be stored. Your settings will be saved in the MS Windows 95/NT System Registry.


Configuring ToolBar Buttons

Configuring ToolBar Buttons

Entire ToolBar for Windows 95/NT button groups can be easily customized by selecting the Options item from the popup menu and then picking the Buttons Tab. A property sheet will be displayed allowing entire ToolBar button groups to be changed.

Group

The Group drop box contains a list of the 10 ToolBar button groups available. Select the button group you would like to work with by picking the group name from the list displayed.

Application

The Application list box displays the names of the buttons currently defined for the active button group. Use the mouse to select the ToolBar button item you wish to modify. Double-clicking your mouse on a button description will open the ToolBar Editing property sheet.

Edit

Press the Edit button to modify the currently selected button definition.

Up

Press the Up button to move the currently selected button definition up one position on the ToolBar. This button will be disabled (grayed) if the current selection is at the top of the list.

Down

Press the Down button to move the currently selected button definition down one position on the ToolBar. This button will be disabled (grayed) if the current selection is at the bottom of the list.

Cut

Press the Cut button to remove the currently selected button definition. The button definition you remove is stored in ToolBar’s private scrap and can be used later with the Paste command. The buttons you cut can later be pasted into a different button group by selecting the destination button group using the Group pick list.

Copy

Press the Copy button to make a copy of the currently selected button definition. The button definition you copy is stored in ToolBar’s private scrap and can be used later with the Paste command. The buttons you copy can later be pasted into a different button group by selecting the destination button group using the Group pick list.

Paste

Press the Paste button to insert a previously cut or copied button definition at the current button selection. You will be prompted to confirm the Paste command if you attempt to paste a button definition on top of a previously defined button. This button will be disabled (grayed) if no button definition has be cut or copied.

Remove

Press the Remove button to delete the currently selected button definition. This command unlike the Cut command, does not store the removed button definition in ToolBar’s private scrap.

OK

Press this button when you have completed your customization of ToolBar button groups. Your changes will be stored in the MS Windows 95/NT System Registry when the property sheet is closed.

Cancel

Press this button to close the ToolBar Customization property sheet without making any changes.

Help

Press this button to open the ToolBar Help window and go directly to the Configuring ToolBar Buttons topic.


ToolBar Settings

ToolBar Settings

Various ToolBar for Windows 95/NT timing and display options can be specified by selecting the Options item from the popup menu and then picking the Settings Tab. A property sheet will be displayed allowing the following items to be changed.

Select a Delay Before Displaying ToolBar

Use these settings to specify the delay period before restoring ToolBar on the Desktop when the AutoHide feature is activated. You may select the Slow, Normal or Fast settings for this delay. If ToolBar appears too quickly when the mouse is moved to the edge of the Desktop you may want to lower this setting slightly.

Show First Letter for Group Names

Check this item to display the first letter of ToolBar button group names when the Show Icons Only setting is selected. If this item is not checked the last button on the ToolBar will display the group number (0-9) in the narrow display mode.

Left Edge of the Desktop

Select this button to place ToolBar along the left edge of the desktop. This setting will only have an effect if ToolBar is configured as an AppBar docking window.

Right Edge of the Desktop

Select this button to place ToolBar along the right edge of the desktop. This setting will only have an effect if ToolBar is configured as an AppBar docking window.

Tip The keyboard shortcut, Ctrl+L can be used to toggle the desktop location of ToolBar without opening the ToolBar Options property sheet.

Font

Press this button to select a font style and size for ToolBar button text. The font you select will be used to display ToolBar button names. The name of the currently selected font will be displayed to the left of this button.

Tip Use 7pt. Small Fonts to increase button text to three complete lines.

OK

Press this button when you have completed your customization of ToolBar Settings. Your changes will be stored in the MS Windows 95/NT System Registry when the property sheet is closed.

Cancel

Press this button to close the ToolBar Settings property sheet without making any changes.

Help

Press this button to open the ToolBar Help window and go directly to the ToolBar Settings topic.


ToolBar Explorer Setup

ToolBar Setup

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT can be integrated with the MS Explorer by selecting the Options item from the popup menu and then pressing the Explorer tab. This window will allow you to integrate ToolBar for Windows 95/NT with the Microsoft Windows 95/NT Explorer. Use this command to create and remove MS Explorer shortcuts.

Create a Start Menu Item

Check this item to create a ToolBar Start Menu entry. The ToolBar for Windows 95/NT program will be located in the Software by Design folder on the Programs menu. This item will be disabled (grayed) if a ToolBar item already exists in the Software by Design folder.

Remove this Start Menu Item

Check this item to remove the ToolBar entry located in the Software by Design folder on the Programs menu. This item will be disabled (grayed) if a ToolBar item does not already exist in the Software by Design folder.

Create a Desktop Icon

Check this item to create a ToolBar for Windows 95/NT program icon on the Explorer desktop. This item will be disabled (grayed) if a ToolBar desktop icon already exists.

Remove Icon from the Desktop

Check this item to remove the ToolBar for Windows 95/NT program icon from the Explorer desktop. This item will be disabled (grayed) if a ToolBar desktop icon does not already exist.

Create a Startup Folder Item

Check this item to automatically run ToolBar for Windows 95/NT whenever Microsoft Windows is started. This option creates a ToolBar program icon in the MS Windows Explorer Startup folder. This item will be disabled (grayed) if a ToolBar startup item already exists in the Startup folder.

Remove the Startup Folder Item

Check this item to remove ToolBar from the MS Windows Explorer Startup folder. This item will be disabled (grayed) if a ToolBar startup item does not already exist in the Startup folder.

OK

Press this button when you have completed your selection of MS Explorer shortcuts. When you press this button the ToolBar Setup property sheet will be closed and the MS Explorer shortcuts you have selected will be created or removed.

Cancel

Press this button to close the ToolBar Explorer Setup property sheet without creating or removing any MS Explorer shortcuts.

Help

Press this button to open the ToolBar Help window and go directly to the ToolBar Explorer Setup topic.


ToolBar Popup Menu

Popup Menu

Clicking the right mouse button on the button group name or number displayed in the last button at the bottom of ToolBar will display a popup menu containing various items that can be used to control ToolBar. Most commonly used ToolBar menu commands also have keyboard shortcuts associated with them.

The popup menu displays the ten button groups names at the top. Select a group from this list to go directly to that button group. You can use the shortcut keys Ctrl+0 through Ctrl+9 to select button groups. Other items are included to perform various ToolBar functions as follows:

Always on Top

Check this item to keep the ToolBar window topmost on the desktop. With this item checked ToolBar will float above all other windows on the desktop. The Ctrl+T shortcut key can also be used for this item.

AutoHide

Check this item to hide ToolBar after you press a button to launch an application or move the mouse off of the ToolBar window. To redisplay the ToolBar window move your mouse to the right edge of the desktop. The Ctrl+A shortcut key can also be used for this item.

Note There is a short delay period before ToolBar is restored on the desktop when the AutoHide option is active.

Show Icons Only

Check this item to display a narrow ToolBar window containing only icons, instead of both icons and button descriptions. Uncheck this item to restore full ToolBar buttons with descriptions. When this item is selected a small popup tool tip window containing the button name will be displayed when the mouse pointer is passed over the various ToolBar buttons you have defined. The Ctrl+N shortcut key can also be used for this item.

Run

Select this item to run programs not defined as buttons. This command displays a dialog box similar to the normal MS Windows Run window. Enter the name of the program you wish to run and any additional command line options required. The drop lists will display the previous commands you have entered. You can also select one of these to quickly re-run an application you have previously invoked. The Ctrl+R shortcut key can also be used for this item.

Screen Saver

Select this item to automatically activate your screen saver. If you have specified a password for your screen saver this item provides a simply way of activating your screen saver and protecting your system. The Ctrl+S shortcut key can also be used for this item.

System Information

Select this item to display a small System Resource Monitor window. This window will dynamically display the current system resource usage and information concerning your computer. If you are experiencing trouble running other applications leave this window open as you launch applications and you will see how each program impacts upon system resources. You can also use the Alt+Enter shortcut key to open the System Resource Monitor.

Options

Select this item to display a property sheet allowing you to configure the various ToolBar options and settings.

Help

Select this item to display the Help sub-menu.

Contents

Opens the ToolBar Help window and displays the Table of Contents. The F1 shortcut can be used for this command.

Search

Opens ToolBar Help and displays the Search window. You can use this window to search for specific ToolBar help topics.

How to Use Help

Opens a Help window that explains how to use the MS Windows 95/NT Help program.

Register

Displays the ToolBar Shareware Registration Wizard. This wizard allows you to register ToolBar for Windows 95/NT for authorized use.

Setup

Displays the ToolBar Explorer Setup property sheet. This window provides options to integrate ToolBar with the MS Windows Explorer. Use this window to create MS Explorer Start Menu items and desktop icons.

Web Site

Opens your web browser application and goes directly to the Software Design web site on the Internet.

Send E-Mail to Author

Opens your Internet eMail client application and allows you to send an eMail message directly to the author at Gregory_Braun@CompuServe.com.

Note You must have your Internet eMail client software configured as your default Simple MAPI client for this command to work properly.

About ToolBar

Select this item to display the ToolBar splash box. This window displays the current version of ToolBar and a copyright notice. Click you mouse anywhere in this window to close it.

Exit

Select this item to exit ToolBar for Windows and return to the desktop. If you have checked the Confirm ToolBar Exit item in the ToolBar Options dialog you will be asked to confirm this command. You can also use the Ctrl+Q shortcut key for this command.


Editing a ToolBar Button

Editing ToolBar Buttons

The quickest way to define a ToolBar button is to locate the program or document using the MS Windows Explorer, and then drag the file directly onto the button you would like to define. You can also drag and drop file shortcuts onto ToolBar buttons.

ToolBar Settings

ToolBar buttons are defined using settings similar to those properties used by the Windows Explorer. You can specify a name to describe a ToolBar button, the program to be run and an optional command line. You can also specify the starting directory to be selected when an application is launched.

If you are having trouble running an application from a ToolBar button check the Windows Explorer item properties for the program link and duplicate these in your ToolBar button definition. Programs often require that the Working Directory be the same folder that the application itself is located in.

To define or edit a ToolBar button definition right-click the mouse on the button you wish to edit. A small popup menu will be displayed with New Button and Properties selections. When the New Button or Properties menu items are selected s property sheet will be displayed that allows you to define the various application settings as follows:

Name

Enter a short name to describe the application. This name will appear to the right of the program icon when the button is displayed.

Active

Check this box to make the button active. If this button is not checked the button title will be grayed, and the button will not be usable. This option exists to optionally turn off a button without deleting it.

Program

Enter the complete path and file name for the program to be used with this button, or press the browse button [...] to the right of the entry field to select an application automatically using the standard MS Windows file explorer dialog box.

Command

Use this field to enter any optional command line arguments the program may need. You can also use this entry to specify a file to be opened by the program specified above. Include the full drive and folder path when specifying document file names and enclose them in double quotes if they include spaces in their names.

Run

Selects the initial window size of the application being defined. You can select Normal, Minimized or Maximized. The application's window will be sized according to this setting when the program is launched.

Multiple Copies

Check this box to launch multiple instances of the selected program. ToolBar normally activates a running application's main window when a button is pressed for an already running application

Ask for Program Arguments at Runtime

Check this box to allow additional run-time arguments to be entered when a application is first started.

Open Documents Dropped on this Button

Check this box to open documents using the application defined for this button. If this option is checked and you drag and drop a document on a ToolBar button the defined program will be launched and the selected document will be opened.

Hide ToolBar on Launch

Check this box to hide the ToolBar when this button is pressed to launch a program. If this item is not checked the ToolBar can still be hidden by setting the Always Hide ToolBar on Button Launches option.

Selecting Icons

Small arrow buttons are located directly beneath the program file icon. Use these buttons to scroll through the icons available for this ToolBar button.

Directory

Use this field to specify the working directory for the specified application. When a program is first launched the directory specified will become the current working directory. Use this item to specify a directory, other than the program's directory if you normally locate an application's document files in a folder other than where the application itself exists. To automatically select a working directory press the browse button [...] to the right of this entry field.

OK

Press this button when you have completed your selection of settings for the button. When you press this button the ToolBar Button Editing window  will be closed and your button settings will be saved.

Cancel

Press this button to close the ToolBar Button Editing window without making any changes. If you have made any changes to the button settings, and then press this button your changes will not be used, and your previous button settings will remain in use.

Help

Press this button to open the ToolBar Help window and go directly to the Editing a ToolBar Button topic.

Game Tips

Some programs, especially games, often require that the Working Directory be the same folder that the application itself is located in.

Working Directory Tips

You can also use the Working Directory entry to specify where you would like your documents to be placed. When the ToolBar button is pressed the program will be launched and the document directory you specified will be selected. This is helpful if you normally locate your document files in a folder other than where the application itself is located.


Adding Sounds and Icons to Buttons

Adding Sounds and Icons to Buttons

Custom sounds and icons can also be assigned to the ToolBar buttons you define. The icon you select will be displayed on the left side of the ToolBar button. The sound you define will be played whenever that button is pressed and the application associated with it is launched.

Icon File

Use this field to specify a file containing custom icons, or press the browse button [...] to the right of this field to automatically select a file using the standard MS Windows file explorer dialog. Icon files normally have ICO, ICL, NIL and DLL file extensions. The TOOLBAR.ICL file included with ToolBar for Windows 95/NT contains 200 icons suitable for use as custom button icons. The SHELL32.DLL found in the Windows\System folder is an example of another file that contains icon resources.

Use a Custom Icon for this ToolBar Button

Check this box to use a custom icon defined in the Icon File entry field as entered above.

Selecting Icons

Small arrow buttons are located directly beneath the custom file icons. Use these buttons to scroll through the icons available for this ToolBar button.

Wave File

Use this field to specify a sound file to be played when this button is pressed, or use the browse button [...] to the right of this field to automatically select a sound file using the standard MS Windows file explorer dialog. Sound files normally have a WAV file extension.

Play this Sound File at Runtime

Check this box to play the sound file defined in the Wave File entry field as entered above.

Test

Press this button to play the sound file as specified above.

OK

Press this button when you have completed your selection of settings for the button. When you press this button the ToolBar Button Editing window  will be closed and your button settings will be saved.

Cancel

Press this button to close the ToolBar Button Editing window without making any changes. If you have made any changes to the button settings, and then press this button your changes will not be used, and your previous button settings will remain in use.

Help

Press this button to open the ToolBar Help window and go directly to the Adding Sounds and Icons to Buttons topic.


Custom Icons in a Button

Custom Icons

Custom icons can be assigned to ToolBar buttons. Icons can be located in ICO or DLL files, as well as most of the popular icon library formats available for Windows. This feature is especially useful if you create ToolBar buttons for MS DOS applications or batch files.

Icon Libraries

The SHELL32.DLL file located in your Windows System directory is an example of a DLL file that contains numerous icons suitable for use as custom icons in ToolBar buttons. The file TOOLBAR.ICL also contains icons compatible with ToolBar.

Default Icon Library

When you create a new button the TOOLBAR.ICL file will be the default icon library for custom icons. To use a different icon library press the browse button [...] to the right of the Icon File field and select the file you would prefer to use for custom icons.


Moving ToolBar Buttons

Moving ToolBar Buttons Within a Group

You can change the location of ToolBar buttons within a group by holding down either the Ctrl or Shift key and dragging the button to the new location using the mouse.

Moving a ToolBar Button to Another Group

Right click your mouse on the button you wish to move. A popup menu will be displayed allowing you to Cut or Copy the current button. After cutting or copying the button move to the button group you wish to move the button to and select the Paste command from the popup menu again.

You may also move a ToolBar button to a different group by selecting the Options item on the ToolBar popup menu and then selecting the Buttons tab. Select the button you would like to move and press the Copy button to the right of the button list. Then select the desired group using the combo box at the top of the window, select the position to place the currently selected button item and press the Paste button.


Removing ToolBar Buttons

Removing ToolBar Buttons

To remove a ToolBar button right-click your mouse on the ToolBar button you want to delete and select Delete from the popup menu. You will be prompted to confirm your decision to delete a ToolBar button before the button is actually removed.

You can also remove ToolBar buttons using the ToolBar Options property sheet by selecting the Buttons tab and highlighting the button name you wish to delete. Then press the Remove button on the right side of the listbox. You will be asked to confirm the deletion of the specified ToolBar button before it is actually removed.


Control Panel Applets

Control Panel Applets

Control Panel Applets can be defined as buttons by specifying the applet as the command argument and specifying the CONTROL.EXE application as the program. Specify the applet as the custom icon file as well. The icon for the applet is stored there.

For example, to create a button for the Mouse Control Panel use:

Program:	C:\WIN95\CONTROL.EXE

Command:	C:\WIN95\SYSTEM\MAIN.CPL

Icon File:	C:\WIN95\SYSTEM\MAIN.CPL

[ X ]  Use Custom Icon File

Dragging Control Panel Applets

You can also drag & drop a Control Panel Applet directly onto the ToolBar to make a button. Control Panel Applets have a file extension of .CPL and can be found in your Windows System Folder.


Documents as Buttons

Dragging Documents to ToolBar

Dragging documents with several standard extension types will automatically create ToolBar buttons with the program field filled in for you. If the program name inserted is not your preferred viewer you can change it as you would any other button.

The following list describes the file extensions that ToolBar will automatically create buttons for.

CPL	- Windows 95 Control Panel

CRD	- Microsoft Card File

DOC	- Microsoft Word Pad

HLP	- Microsoft Windows 95 Help

HT	- Microsoft HyperTerminal

HTM	- Internet Web Browser

HTML	- Internet Web Browser

RTF	- Microsoft Word Pad

SHTML	- Internet Web Browser

WRI	- Microsoft Word Pad

Note If you’ve checked Open Documents Dropped on this Button in the ToolBar Button definition this command will be overridden and the document will be loaded into the program defined for the button.

Note If you use a web browser other than Microsoft's Internet Explorer you can specify your browser in the ToolBar Options property sheet. You will also need to specify where the Internet Explorer is located if you installed it to a folder other than the default.


Explorer Desktop Icons

Explorer Desktop Icons

ToolBar buttons can be created for the standard Explorer desktop icons such as “My Computer” and the “Network Neighborhood”. You will need to create these buttons using the right-click editing method.

Explorer’s desktop icons are not icons in the normal sense, so you need to specify the ToolBar button program as Explorer, and use the icons signature as the command entry.

For example to put the “My Computer” icon in the Toolbar use:

Name:	My Computer

Program:	C:\Win95\Explorer.exe

Command:	::{20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D}

Explorer Signatures

The following list describes the signatures you will need to use for the various Explorer icons displayed on the desktop by default.

Recycle Bin:	::{645FF040-5081-101B-9F08-00AA002F954E}

Printers:	::{2227A280-3AEA-1069-A2DE-08002B30309D}

Network:	::{208D2C60-3AEA-1069-A2D7-08002B30309D}

InBox:	::{00020D75-0000-0000-C000-000000000046}

Dial-Up:	::{20D04FE0-3AEA-1069-A2D8-08002B30309D}\::{992CFFA0-F557-101A-88EC-00DD010CCC48}

Note Your system may be using different signatures than those mentioned above. Check your computer’s registry for the values your system has defined for these items.

Tip Copy these signatures to the MS Windows Clipboard and then paste them into a ToolBar button definition.


Drive and Folder Buttons

Drive and Folder Buttons

ToolBar buttons can also be created for disk drives and specific folders. When you press a drive or folder button the MS Explorer program will be launched the specified folder will be opened on the desktop.

For example to create a button for your C: drive on the ToolBar use:

Name:	Drive C:

Program:	C:\Win95\Explorer.exe

Command:	“C:\”

To create a button for a folder on the ToolBar use:

Name:	Program Files

Program:	C:\Win95\Explorer.exe

Command:	“C:\Program Files”

Tip Remember to enclose folder path names in quotes if they contain spaces in their names.

Note You will need to specify an icon from the MS Explorer application, or a custom icon from the TOOLBAR.ICL library if you define drive or folder buttons on ToolBar.

Tip The file “C:\Win95\System\Shell32.dll” also contains icons suitable for drive and folder buttons.

The following MS Explorer command line switches may be used when creating drive and folder buttons:

/e	Explorer view (two panes, with the folder tree in the left pane.)

/n	Start a new instance of MS Explorer.

/root	<path> Start with this folder and disallow selections above this folder.

/select	<path> select a specific folder for opening.

The command line switches specified above, unlike most MS Windows command arguments require a comma following the switch. For example:

Name:	Program Files

Program:	C:\Win95\Explorer.exe

Command:	/e, /root, C:\Program Files

Would open MS Explorer as a two-pane window and display the Program Files folder without allowing the user to move above this folder.


Dial-Up Networking Buttons

Dial-Up Networking Buttons

ToolBar buttons can also be created for specific Dial-Up Networking connections. When you press a Dial-Up Networking button you will automatically launch that service’s login window.

Use the program and command entries illustrated below to create a Dial-Up ToolBar button:

Name:	Connection Name

Program:	C:\Win95\RunDLL.exe

Command:	C:\Win95\System\Rnaui.dll,RnaDial <Connection Name>

You will need to also assign a custom icon to the button.

Note The <Connection Name> you specify must be named exactly as it appears in the Dial-Up Networking folder, but without the “<” and “>” characters.


Web Site Buttons

Web Site Buttons

ToolBar buttons can also be created for specific Internet web sites and search engines that you visit often.

Use the program and command entries illustrated below to create a Web Site ToolBar button:

Name:	Web Site Name

Program:	C:\Program Files\Microsoft Internet\IExplore.exe

Command:	http://www.execpc.com/~sbd

You will need to also assign a custom icon to the button.

Note the Program entry field should contain the name of your web browser and must include the full folder path. The Command entry field should contain the web site URL address and must include the http:// prefix.


ToolBar Shortcut Keys

Shortcuts

Use the page and arrow keys to quickly view your button groups. These commands work the same way as pressing the arrows on the last button on the ToolBar.

Ctrl+0 - Ctrl+9	Display a Button Group

 0 – 9 Keys	Launch program

Left	Display previous button group

Right	Display next button group

Home	Display the first button group

End	Display the last button group

Up	Display previous button group

Backspace	Display previous button group

Down	Display next button group

Tab	Display next button group

Ctrl+T	Make ToolBar topmost

Ctrl+A	AutoHide the ToolBar

Ctrl+N	Show Icons Only

Ctrl+L	Place ToolBar on the left

Ctrl+S	Start the Screen Saver

Ctrl+R	Run an ad hoc command

Ctrl+Q	Exit ToolBar

Alt+Enter	System Resource Monitor

F1	Display this Help file


General Information

General Information

I have tried to keep ToolBar as small as possible so that users with 386 SX machines and limited memory resources can still run ToolBar whenever Windows is launched.

VGA/Super VGA Users

Users with VGA and Super VGA video displays may find that running ToolBar as "Icons Only" preserves as much desktop space for applications as possible.

ToolBar Size

ToolBar automatically adjusts its size to your video display screen height. Depending upon your display size and video resolution, you will have between 10 and 36 ToolBar buttons per group.

Display Settings

If you change your video driver's display resolution often you will want to put your most frequently used applications towards the top of the ToolBar.

Do not be alarmed if you lower your screen resolution and ToolBar buttons are not displayed, they are still defined and will re-appear when you change back to the previous higher resolution.


Running ToolBar on a Network

ToolBar on a Network

ToolBar can be used on a network and optionally configured to prevent users from changing ToolBar button definitions.

Network Installation

To use ToolBar on a network install the TOOLBAR.EXE, TOOLBAR.ICL and TOOLBAR.HLP files on a network drive, configure the ToolBar button groups as you would normally.

Network Deployment

ToolBar can be invoked with a button definition file as its command line argument. Use this feature to automate the process of installing ToolBar on a series of workstations.

Syntax: “C:\Program Files\Software by Design\ToolBar.exe”  “C:\Path\To Folder with\ToolBar.tbx”

Note The command described above must include full folder path names and be enclosed in quotes if either file name includes spaces.

Read-Only Buttons

Users can be prevented from modifying button definitions as well. You must exit ToolBar and edit the MS Windows 95/NT System Registry file using RegEdit.

Locate the ReadOnly = 0 key in the [ToolBar] section and change it to ReadOnly = 1 to prevent user edits. Now users can run ToolBar, but will not be allowed to edit ToolBar button definitions.

Preventing Ad Hoc Program Launches

To prevent users from accessing the Run command on the popup menu locate the Run = 1 key in the [ToolBar] section and set it to Run = 0 to restrict users from running ad hoc MS DOS and Windows commands.

Note In previous versions of ToolBar the ReadOnly = 1 switch restricted both of these options, but now if you do not want your users to access the Run dialog edit the System Registry as described above. This was changed because some network administrators requested it.

Disabling the Import / Export Buttons

To prevent users from importing and exporting ToolBar button definition files locate the Import = 1 and Export = 1 option settings and set them to Import = 0 and Export = 0 to disable (gray) these buttons on the ToolBar Options property sheet.

Note Workstations should establish a network connection and login before ToolBar is run if button definitions refer to applications located on the network server. ToolBar loads icons for program buttons from the application file itself, so if the workstation is not connected to the network the program icons will not be loaded and the default ToolBar icon will be displayed instead.


System Information

System Information

ToolBar has a small system information and resource monitor window. This window is useful for monitoring system resource usage and reporting computer configuration settings.

Activation

To activate the System Information window select the Information item from the ToolBar popup menu or press the Alt+Enter shortcut key. A small window will be displayed on the desktop showing the current system configuration and resource usage.

This window is dynamically updated as system resources change. The following items are reported:

Microsoft Windows

This region displays the version of MS Windows installed on your computer and the type of CPU found. If you are using a system that has more than one processor installed this will also be reported here.

Memory

This region displays the total amount of RAM available to Windows as well as the amount of memory that is currently free. MS Windows 95/98 cannot use the lower 640K of memory used by MS DOS so the total RAM available will be slightly less than the total RAM installed on your system. The free memory value will change dynamically as programs are loaded, run and unloaded.

Note MS Windows 95/NT systems use virtual memory, so as physical memory is exhausted virtual memory is created. Watch the Swap gauge in the Resources section to monitor virtual memory allocation.

Video Monitor

This region displays the current video display resolution and the number of colors available as follows:

1-bit:	black & white (monochrome)

4-bit:	16 colors or shades of gray

8-bit:	256 colors or shades of gray

16-bit:	Thousands of colors

32-bit:	Millions of colors

Resources

This region displays three gauges showing the current resource usage for the System, RAM and Swap space. These items will change as programs are loaded, used and unloaded. The color of the gauge changes based upon the current usage as follows:

Blue:	less than 90% usage

Yellow:	less than 95% used

Red:	more than 95% used

Note If you are having trouble loading a program check these values as you attempt to launch the application.


Importing and Exporting Buttons

Importing and Exporting ToolBar Buttons

ToolBar button definitions can be saved and loaded using standard ASCII text files. Select the Options item on the ToolBar popup menu to Import and Export entire ToolBar button definition files.

Importing and exporting ToolBar button definitions is useful if you run ToolBar for Windows 95/NT on several different computer systems, or you have multiple MS Windows 95/NT login accounts on a single machine. ToolBar button configuration files are created with a TBX file extension. You can specify any file extension you wish, but changing the extension will prevent the proper file icon from being displayed by the MS Windows Explorer.

ToolBar stores its button definitions on a user-by-user basis in the System Registry if you have configured MS Windows 95 to save each individual computer users’ preferences and desktop settings. You can verify these settings by selecting the Password Control Panel applet and viewing the User Profiles tab.

ToolBar will use individual button definitions if the Password Control Panel User Profiles tab specifies “Users can customize their preferences and desktop settings. Windows switches to your personal settings whenever you log in”.

ToolBar will use the same set of button definitions for all users if the Password Control Panel User Profiles tab specifies “All users of this PC use the same preferences and desktop settings”.

The Import and Export commands are found in the ToolBar Options property sheet. The button configuration files created using the ToolBar Export command should not be modified manually. If you insist on editing these yourself you do so at your own risk. The following information describes the format of the ToolBar export file.

ToolBar Button Configuration File Format

The ToolBar button configuration file is comprised of three types of information; General ToolBar application settings, Group definitions, and individual button definitions. ToolBar configuration files are implemented using standard MS Windows 95/NT Profile settings files. Due to the size limitation of this type of file the various Boolean settings are concatenated into single ASCII strings whenever possible.

General ToolBar Settings

The first section of a button definition export file describes the general ToolBar application settings and shareware registration information.

[ToolBar]

Signature = 0x80888088

Browser = C:\Program Files\Microsoft Internet\IExplore.exe

WaveFile = C:\Win95\Media\The Microsoft Sound.wav

Flags = 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 3000 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 †

[Registration]

UserName = <Your Name>

Organization = <Your Company>

Code = <Registration Code> (32-bit hexadecimal value)

The Flags parameter contains the settings as specified in the ToolBar Options property sheet. These settings are Boolean values and must be set to either a “0” for FALSE, or a “1” for TRUE as follows:

Always on Top

AutoHide

Show Icons Only

Confirm ToolBar Exit

Smaller ToolBar

Read Only ††

Run ††

Log Program Launches

Show Splash Box at Startup

Play Button Launch Sounds

Polling Delay (in milliseconds)

Left Edge

Import ††

Export ††

Display Wait (0 = Fast, 1 = Normal, 2 = Slow)

First Letter

Double Clicks

Tray Access

Always Hide on Button Launch

† The Flags = line in the button definition file can be removed to allow users to keep their previous ToolBar desktop settings. This option has been added for Network Administrators.

†† These settings are only useful to Network Administrators and should not be modified.

Group Names

The second section of a button definition export file describes the ten button groups defined for the ToolBar.

[G0] through [G9]

Name = Main

Active = 1

There will be ten Group Names in this section labeled [G0] † through [G9].

Name	The name defined for this button group.

Active	1 = Active, 0 = Disabled.

† The first Button Group must always be active.

Button Settings

The third section of a button definition export file contains the actual button definitions you have created as follows:

[2:14]

Name = Screen Loupe

Prg = C:\Program Files\Software by Design\Loupe.exe

Cmd = -fast -2 -sound

Dir = |D:\usr\Clip-Art\Fine Art|†

Icons = C:\Program Files\Software by Design\ToolBar.icl

Wave = C:\Win95\Media\The Microsoft Sound.wav

Flags = 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0

Button settings use section labels comprised of the button group number (0-9), a semicolon separator and the button number (0-n). Both button group numbers and ToolBar button definitions are zero-based.

† The | character is automatically converted to a double quote character upon import because MS Windows 95/NT Profile settings files cannot store double-quoted strings.

The Flags parameter contains the settings as specified in the ToolBar Editing property sheet. These settings are all Boolean values unless otherwise noted and must be set to either a “0” for FALSE, or a “1” for TRUE as follows:

Button is Defined

Tool is Active

Use the Custom Icon File

Launch Multiple Instances

Ask for Arguments at Run-Time

Minimize on Use

Open Documents Dropped on this Button

Play the WAV file Associated with this Tool Button

Run (1 = Normal, 2 = Minimized, 3 = Maximized)

Index (icon number, zero based)


Troubleshooting FAQs

Troubleshooting FAQs

This is a compilation of frequently asked questions I’ve received from users. Most of the problems users encounter involve an incorrectly specified Working Directory entry. Check this setting first if you are having a problem with a specific button.

How do I get ToolBar to run whenever I start up MS Windows?

Select the Options item on the ToolBar popup menu and then pick the Explorer tab to display the ToolBar Explorer Setup property sheet. Use this window to integrate ToolBar for Windows 95/NT with the Microsoft Explorer. You can create Explorer Startup menu items and desktop icons using this window.

Will ToolBar work with MS Windows 98?

Yes, Toolbar is designed to run on MS Windows 95/98 systems as well as Windows NT v4.0.

Using ToolBar with Norton Utilities

To use Notron Utilities with ToolBar create buttons as you normally would, but define the Working Directory as that folder that contains the Norton DLLs. This directory is normally located within the folder that contains the actual program files. If you have run the Norton installer program and used the folder defaults this sub-folder will be named System.

Tip Newer versions of Peter Norton’s Utilities store DLLs in two folder locations; C:\Program Files\Notron Utilities\System and C:\Program Files\Symanec. If you edit your Path statement to include these two folder locations you won’t have to specify a working directory for any of the Norton tools. Use the original MS DOS 8.3 file naming format for these directory entries; “c:\progra~1\norton~1\system” and “c:\progra~1\symantec”.

I’ve defined a button but the program can’t locate DLLs

Check the folder containing the application and check for a sub-folder containing the DLLs needed by the application. If such a folder exists use this folder as the button’s Working Directory entry.

My program can’t find its startup files or documents

Make sure the Working Directory entry for the button is the same as the folder that contains the application. Many games look for sounds, game files, and graphics in the directory the application starts from, so make sure the working directory is set to the program folder.

My network applications do not have the correct icon

Make sure your network software is loaded and you have logged onto the network before launching ToolBar. ToolBar loads the icons it displays in buttons from the application files you have defined. If you do not have a network connection these icons won’t be found, and the default ToolBar icon will be used in their place. If logging onto the network prior to loading ToolBar isn’t possible use a custom icon from an icon library located on your local hard drive.

How do I define buttons for Explorer desktop icons?

See the Explorer Desktop Icons section of this help file for a complete discussion of this subject.

How do I define buttons for Explorer drives and folders?

Specify the MS Explorer application (C:\Win95\Explorer.exe) as the program entry and the full path name to the folder you want to open, for example; “C:\My Documents” to open your document folder. Remember to enclose the folder path in quotes if the name contains spaces. To define drives as buttons simply use “C:\” or “D:\” as the command field. See the Drive and Folder Buttons section of this help file for a complete discussion of MS Explorer folders as ToolBar buttons.

How do I define buttons for Internet web sites?

See the Web Site Buttons section of this help file for a complete discussion of the creation of web site and search engine buttons.

Defining a button for a program on a CD ROM

Make sure the program disk is loaded in your CD ROM drive. Most CD ROM programs allow you to install a small startup application on your hard drive, if so, use this program as your button definition, then when you press the button the local program will prompt you to load the CD ROM disk needed. This method will work with most CD ROM games as well.

Defining buttons for MS DOS programs

MS Windows looks for a Program Information File (PIF) located in the same folder as the application and automatically uses this file to configure the MS DOS program being run. Use the actual MS DOS program name as the button definition. If a program is being run for the first time a PIF file will be created automatically. You can set the PIF’s properties using the Properties button on the MS DOS Shell toolbar ribbon. MS DOS programs normally won’t have an icon so define a custom icon for the ToolBar button using the Custom Icon setting when editing the button definition.

My Screen Saver appears but immediately deactivates itself

Most screen savers detect mouse movements or keyboard entries. If you select the Screen Saver item on the ToolBar popup menu, and then move the mouse again even a small bit the screen saver will be deactivated. To get around this problem use the Ctrl+S shortcut key instead, and then do not press any other keys on the keyboard.

ToolBar is hidden behind my application windows

Make sure the Always on Top item is checked on the ToolBar Popup Menu. This will prevent other programs from hiding the ToolBar. Most well designed MS Windows programs will remember their desktop location and use these again the next time they are launched. If so, adjust the application’s window size so that it does not overlap the ToolBar window.

How do I create ToolBar buttons for Dial-Up Networking

See the Dial-Up Networking Buttons section of this help file for a complete discussion of this subject.

Why is there a delay after I launch a program?

ToolBar stores an application’s main window handle to prevent multiple instances of the program from being launched unless the Multiple Copies setting is specified for an individual ToolBar button. ToolBar waits 3  seconds before retrieving the application’ main window handle in case a  splash box was displayed by the launched program. If this delay is a problem and you know that the application you are launching does not allow multiple instances of itself from being launched check the Multiple Copies setting to override this 3 second delay.

How do I delete a ToolBar button?

Right-click your mouse on the ToolBar button you wish to remove and select the Delete command from the popup menu. See the Removing ToolBar Buttons section of this help file for a complete discussion of this subject.

How do I disable button launch sounds?

Right-click your mouse on the ToolBar button you wish to disable launch sounds for and select the Properties item from the popup menu and then select the MultiMedia tab. Uncheck the selection as shown below.

[ ] Play this Sound File at Runtime

To disable sounds for all new ToolBar buttons you create select the Options item from the ToolBar popup menu and remove the Default Button Launch Sound entry. New buttons you create will not have a default sound file assigned to them if this setting is left blank.

Send E-Mail to Author produces a MAPI error!

To use this command your Internet eMail client must be configured as the default simple MAPI client. In Microsoft Outlook and Outlook Express check the options:

[x] Make Outlook Express my default e-mail program

[x] Make Outlook Express my default Simple MAPI client

To configure these settings use the MS Outlook Express Tools | Options menu command and then select the General tab.

If you use a different email client check the documentation that accompanied the program for more information regarding simple MAPI client settings.


Comments and Upgrades

Comments and Suggestions

If you have comments, questions or find any bugs in ToolBar for Windows 95/NT please feel free to contact me on CompuServe.

Gregory Braun – Software Design

CompuServe:	71613,2175

Email:	Gregory_Braun@CompuServe.com

Web Site:	http://www.execpc.com/~sbd

Phone:	1.414.444.8497

Web Site

Visit my web site on the Internet to download the latest versions of all of my software offerings.

Software Design Web Site

(http://www.execpc.com/~sbd)


Release History

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT Release History

v2.0	Original in-house development and testing of MS Windows 95/NT conversion.

v2.1	Added 95/NT splash box for release.

v2.2	Added drag and drop support for button definitions. All dialog box desktop locations are now saved. The Run command dialog box saves recently run programs and commands in droplists. Added Smaller ToolBar item to the Options dialog to reduce ToolBar height by one button. Removed the TOOLBAR.INI file from the ZIP archive.

v2.3	Added a separate Run = item to the INI file for network administrators. Added default icon library when creating new buttons. Changed internal module name to resolve naming conflicts with other executables and DLLs using the name ToolBar. Added keyboard commands to cycle through the button groups. Fixed a bug that prevented the ToolBar from being repositioned along the right edge of the desktop when switching between Show Icons Only and normal full sized buttons.

v2.4	Added Copy and Paste buttons to the Customize dialog to facilitate moving buttons between ToolBar groups. Added new icons to the TOOLBAR.ICL icon library.

v2.5	Added Cut button to the Customize dialog. Added a Run Maximized item to the ToolBar Edit Button dialog box.

v2.6	Fixed Run History bug and increased the History list to 16 items.

v2.7	Added option to selectively disable button groups. Added support for MS Windows screen color settings using the Display Properties dialog. Added the default user and company name to the splash box. Added new icons to the TOOLBAR.ICL icon library.

v2.8	Added an option to selectively hide the ToolBar when launching an application. Fixed bug that removed the double quote character in command line parameters. The double quote character is stored as the bar "|" and then restored when ToolBar loads definitions.

v2.9	Fixed quoted strings bug in tool command options.

v3.0	Added MS Windows 95/NT Help file.

v3.1	Added option to open documents dropped on a button.

v3.2	Added support for dragging shortcuts to define new buttons. Replaced the custom Folder Browser with the standard MS Windows 95/NT dialog box. Added support for the MS Windows 95/NT System Registry. Added new icons to the icon library. Fixed several minor bugs.

v3.3	Increased toolbar button groups to 10 from the original 8. Fixed dialog box desktop locations when the Explorer Taskbar is placed at the top or left edge of the display. Add facilities to the ToolBar Options dialog box to re-order toolbar button groups.

v3.4	Added ToolBar Explorer Setup dialog box. Fixed a bug in the Customize dialog box that prevented changed and moved items from being saved properly for the last (tenth) tool button group. Added icons to the TOOLBAR.ICL custom icon library. Added automatic setup program to the Zip archive.

v3.5	Added a program activity logging option. Fixed a bug that prevented MS Windows NT Control Panels from being properly defined when dropped on ToolBar buttons. Added MS Windows NT detection to properly locate programs and utilities. Removed splash box display during initial ToolBar launch.

v3.6	Converted the main ToolBar window to a standard AppBar similar to the MS Explorer Taskbar. Added popup tool tips for button names when the Show Icons Only option is selected. Added facilities to import and export ToolBar button definitions. Added an option to play a short clicking sound when ToolBar buttons are selected. Added facilities to the ToolBar Explorer Setup window to remove ToolBar shortcuts. Converted the ToolBar Options dialog box to a five-tab property sheet. Fixed a bug that allowed shortcut keys to select disabled button groups and run ad hoc commands when the Run = 0 setting was specified.

v3.7	Fixed a bug that prevented maximized applications from using the full desktop when ToolBar was minimized.

v3.8	Added an AutoHide option to move the ToolBar window off screen when not in use. Added ToolBar button settings to play a specified sound file when a ToolBar button’s application is launched. Fixed a bug that prevented a program from being launched if the specified working directory did not exist.

v3.9	Fixed a bug that prevented proper display of the MS Windows 95/NT Desktop on certain systems. ToolBar now remains visible while property sheets are open or the Popup menu is active, and the AutoHide option is active.

v4.0	Modified the mouse behavior when left and right clicking on the ToolBar group button at the bottom of the window. The right mouse button always displays the ToolBar Popup Menu now. Added an option to the ToolBar Options property sheet to allow custom font styles and sizes for ToolBar button names. Added Shift/Ctrl + Right-Clicking to delete ToolBar buttons. Added a Shareware Registration Wizard. Added a facility to initialize ToolBar buttons at launch by specifying a button definition file as the command line argument.

v4.1	Added a short delay before restoring ToolBar on the desktop when the AutoHide option is active. Added an import override facility to allow a user’s ToolBar desktop settings to be retained when importing a button definition file. Fixed several minor bugs.

v4.2	Added the ToolBar Settings property sheet. Added an option to specify the delay period before restoring ToolBar on the Desktop when the AutoHide facility is activated. Add an option to display the first letter in a ToolBar Button Group name when the Show Icons Only item is active. Fixed several minor bugs.

v4.3	Added support for MS Windows 98. Fixed several minor bugs.

v4.4	Right-clicking on a ToolBar button now displays a context popup menu for defining and moving individual buttons. Fixed several minor bugs.

v4.5	Added facilities to create desktop shortcuts from ToolBar button definitions. Fixed several minor bugs.

v4.6	Fixed several minor bugs.

v4.7	Shortcuts dropped on ToolBar buttons now retain their custom icon settings. New ToolBar buttons that are created no longer default to a button launch sound. The overall height of the ToolBar popup menu was reduced to facilitate proper viewing on 640 x 480 pixel desktops. Add documentation for MS Explorer command line switches. Fixed several other minor bugs.

v4.8	Fixed a bug that forced desktop icons and application windows to be moved when ToolBar was activated. Eliminated the redrawing of desktop icons when the ToolBar window was accessed. Added a setting to optionally require double mouse clicks to launch programs. Added the shortcut keys 1-9 and 0 to launch the first ten ToolBar buttons in each button group. Added a new Sounds tab to the ToolBar Options property sheet. Fixed several other minor bugs.

v4.9	Added facilities to run ToolBar with a floating palette window and taskbar tray access. Fixed a bug that prevented documents from being dropped on ToolBar buttons when the ReadOnly setting is active. Fixed several other minor bugs.

v5.0	Fixed several minor bugs.

v5.1	Added a global setting to Always Hide ToolBar on Button Launches to the main ToolBar Options property sheet. Fixed several minor bugs.

v5.2	Fixed several minor bugs.

Last Update March 1st, 1999

Web Site

Visit my web site on the Internet to download the latest versions of all of my software offerings.

Software Design Web Site

(http://www.execpc.com/~sbd)


System Registry

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT System Registry Key

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT stores configuration settings in the MS Windows 95/NT System Registry. These settings are updated automatically while ToolBar is running. There is no need to edit these settings manually.

If you insist upon editing these settings, you do so at your own risk. ToolBar automatically updates registry entries when it exits. If you edit these settings make sure ToolBar is not running. If ToolBar is currently running your changes will be overwritten when ToolBar exits.

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT stores configuration settings in the following system registry key:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER

Software

Software by Design

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT

Section...

Label = Value

ToolBar program properties are stored in the following system registry keys:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER

Software

Software by Design

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT

Options…

AutoHide	Hide ToolBar when not in use

Browser	Web browser application

Confirm	Confirm ToolBar exits

Delay	Polling delay (in milliseconds)

DoubleClick	Use double mouse clicks

Export	Enable the Export button

FileSpec	Last ToolBar Import/Export file

FirstChar	Use First Letter for Group Names

Group	Starting button group

Import	Enable the Import button

LogFile	Log program launches

Narrow	Show Icons Only

ReadOnly	Disallow button editing

Run	Allow ad hoc commands

Smaller	Smaller ToolBar

Sounds	Play sounds (Click & Pop)

Splash	Display splash box

TopMost	Always on Top

Tray	Tray Access

Wait	AutoHide Delay (0 = Fast, 1 = Normal, 2 = Slow)

WaveFile	Default sound file

ToolBar button definitions are stored in the following system registry keys:

HKEY_CURRENT_USER

Software

Software by Design

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT

Group...

Tool...

Name	 Button label name

Program	 Application name and path

Command	 Command line arguments

Directory	 Starting working directory

IconFile	 Icon library name and path

WaveFile	 WAV file name and path

Active	 1 = Active, 0 = Grayed

Run	 1 = Normal, 2 = Min, 3 = Max

Ask	 1 = Ask for arguments

Copies	 1 = Launch multiple instances

Drop	 1 = Open dropped documents

Minimize	 1 = Minimize on use

Play	 1 = Play the assigned WAV file

Custom	 1 = Use a custom icon

Index	 Icon index (zero based)

Warning There is no need to edit these settings manually. ToolBar will automatically maintain these settings for you. If you do edit these, you do so at your own risk.


Removing ToolBar

Removing ToolBar for Windows 95/NT

If you find that ToolBar for Windows 95/NT does not meet your needs you can remove it from your computer system by simply deleting the following files from your hard drive.

All of these files will be located in the folder that you originally installed ToolBar in.

If you specified the default installation folder when you ran SETUP.EXE all of the ToolBar files mentioned below will found in the C:\Program Files\Software by Design folder.

ToolBar.exe	ToolBar Application Program.

ToolBar.icl	ToolBar Icon Library File

ToolBar.cnt	ToolBar Help Topics File

ToolBar.hlp	ToolBar Help File

ToolBar.bmp	ToolBar Desktop Wallpaper

ToolBar.log	ToolBar Program Launch Log

If you have opened and used the ToolBar for Windows 95/NT Help files your system may contain the following two (2) files. These files are created by the standard MS Windows 95/NT Help program WinHlp32.exe. These files may also be safely removed.

ToolBar.gid	MS Windows Help settings file. This file contains the ToolBar Help window size and desktop location as well as any bookmarks you may have created.

ToolBar.fts	MS Windows Help word database. This file is created when you build a custom word list for ToolBar Help files. This file is used to search for words and phrases in the ToolBar Help files.

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT does not use any custom DLL files or system drivers. If you delete the files mentioned above from your system’s hard drive you will have completely removed ToolBar from your computer system.

Warning If you have installed ToolBar shortcuts in the MS Explorer Start Menu or Startup Folder open the ToolBar Options property sheet and select the Explorer tab to remove the shortcuts you created before you delete the ToolBar files mentioned above.


Software Design Web Site

Software Design

You can download the latest versions of all of my software from my web site on the Internet. I post the latest releases of my software there first. Click your mouse on the link listed below to visit the Software Design web site.

Software Design Web Site

(http://www.execpc.com/~sbd)

Software Titles

The following software titles are available at my web site on the Internet and can also be found on CompuServe, ExecPC, MSN and ZD Net.

NoteBook for Windows	(NBOOK.ZIP)

NoteBook for Windows 95/NT	(NBOOK32.ZIP)

Reminders for Windows	(REMIND.ZIP)

Reminders for Windows 95/NT	(REMIND32.ZIP)

ToolBar for Windows	(TBAR.ZIP)

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT	(TBAR32.ZIP)

Screen Loupe for Windows	(LOUPE.ZIP)

Screen Loupe for Windows 95/NT	(LOUPE32.ZIP)

Screen Loupe for Macintosh	(LOUPE.SEA)

Audition for Windows 95/NT	(AUDITION.ZIP)

Password Keeper for Windows 95/NT	(PASSKEEP.ZIP)

CardBase for Windows 95/NT	(CARDBASE.ZIP)

Go Postal for Windows 95/NT	(GOPOSTAL.ZIP)

File Editor for Windows	(FXEDIT.ZIP)

File Editor for Windows 95/NT	(FXEDIT32.ZIP)

Crypto for Windows 95/NT	(CRYPTO.ZIP)

AppPaths for Windows 95/NT	(APPPATHS.ZIP)

Icon Extractor for Windows	(ICONX.ZIP)

Icon Extractor for Windows 95/NT	(ICONX32.ZIP)

FontShow for Windows 95/NT	(FONTSHOW.ZIP)

Submit It for Windows 95/NT	(SUBMITIT.ZIP)

File Shredder for Windows 95/NT	(SHREDDER.ZIP)

TxEdit for Windows 95/NT	(TXEDIT.ZIP)

DLL Show for Windows 95	(DLLSHOW.ZIP)

RGB Editor for Windows	(RGB.ZIP)

RGB Editor for Windows 95/NT	(RGB32.ZIP)

Quiz Wizard for Windows 95/NT	(QUIZWIZ.ZIP)

Programmer's IDE	(PMAN.ZIP)

Programmer's IDE 95/NT	(PMAN32.ZIP)

Touch for Windows	(WTOUCH.ZIP)

Disk CleanUp for Windows 95/NT	(CLEANUP.ZIP)

BattleStar for Windows	(BSTAR.ZIP)

BattleStar for Windows 95/NT	(BSTAR32.ZIP)

World Radio for Macintosh	(WRADIO.SEA)

Note The latest versions of my software programs are always posted on my web site first. Versions found on the other online services may be earlier releases.


BBS and Internet Operators

Webmasters

Please upload the original ZIP file intact and title the submission:

"ToolBar for Windows 95/NT v5.2"

--Author Gregory Braun

Web Site

Visit my web site on the Internet to download the latest versions of all of my software offerings.

Software Design Web Site

(http://www.execpc.com/~sbd)

Note This site also supports anonymous FTP transfers.


What is Shareware

The concept of "Shareware"...

Shareware, also known as user supported software and other names, is a concept not understood by everyone. The author of Shareware retains all rights to the software under the copyright laws while still allowing free distribution. This gives the user the chance to freely obtain and try out software to see if it fits their needs. Shareware should not be confused with Public Domain software even though they are often obtained from the same sources.

If you continue to use Shareware after trying it out, you are expected to register your use with the author and pay a registration fee. What you get in return depends on the author, but may include a printed manual, free updates, telephone support, etc. Only by paying for the Shareware you use do you enable the Shareware author to continue to support his software and create new programs. Considering that the Shareware registration fees are almost always far less than the purchase price of comparable commercial software it's obvious that Shareware is a good deal for everyone.

There are real advantages to you in the Shareware system. You get to try out software to make sure it is compatible with your hardware and that it fits your needs before you "buy" it with your registration. The author saves the expense of advertising, packaging and distribution and passes the savings on to you. Plus, most Shareware authors are much more accessible than commercial software sources so that your questions and suggestions are much more likely to be responded to.

Thank you for your support.


Registering ToolBar for Windows 95/NT

Registering ToolBar

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT is distributed as shareware. You may evaluate it free of charge for 30 days. After 30 days you are required to register it. If after evaluating ToolBar for 30 days you decide not to register it you are required to remove it from your computer.

Registration entitles you to unlimited free updates and telephone support.

You can register ToolBar for Windows 95/NT by mailing the Order Form provided with this software. When you register ToolBar for Windows 95/NT you will receive your registration code by E-Mail, or optionally you may request that your registration code be mailed to you.

You may also purchase ToolBar for Windows 95/NT using your credit card via the Internet or by telephone.

The software you are currently using is a fully functioning program. As a registered user you will however be able to disable the initial splash box that appears when ToolBar for Windows 95/NT is first launched.

To register your copy of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT select the Register menu command. The Shareware Registration Wizard will be displayed when this menu command is selected. Use this window to fill in the following entry fields:

User Name

Enter the user name you originally specified when you ordered ToolBar for Windows 95/NT.

Organization

Enter the name of your organization as originally specified when you ordered ToolBar for Windows 95/NT. If you did not specify an organization name leave this field blank.

Registration

Enter the registration code that was provided to you. Enter your registration code exactly as provided. Do not include spaces when entering your registration code.

Note The registration code was provided to you when you purchased ToolBar for Windows 95/NT. Refer to the notification letter that was mailed to you or the E-Mail message you received for your personal shareware registration code.

Show Splash Box at Startup

This box will be initially checked if you have not registered ToolBar for Windows 95/NT. When you successfully register your copy of ToolBar this box will automatically be unchecked for you. If you wish to see the splash box when ToolBar is launched return to this Registration Wizard and check this box.

OK

Press this button after you have filled out the Shareware Registration Wizard to complete ToolBar for Windows 95/NT shareware registration.

Cancel

Press this button to close the Shareware Registration Wizard  without making any changes.

Help

Press this button to open the ToolBar Help window and go directly to the Registering ToolBar topic.


Purchasing Information

Purchasing Information

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT is distributed as shareware. You may evaluate it free of charge for 30 days. After 30 days you are required to register it. If after evaluating ToolBar for 30 days you decide not to purchase it you are required to remove it from your computer.

Registration entitles you to unlimited free updates and telephone support.

You can register ToolBar for Windows 95/NT by mailing the Order Form provided with this software. When you register ToolBar for Windows 95/NT you will receive your registration code by E-Mail, or optionally you may request that your registration code be mailed to you.

You may also purchase ToolBar for Windows 95/NT using your credit card via the Internet or by telephone.

The software you are currently using is a fully functioning program. As a registered user you will however be able to disable the initial splash box that appears when ToolBar for Windows 95/NT is first launched.

Single User Licensing

Individual users can register ToolBar for Windows 95/NT for $20.00 dollars. If you would also like a 3 ½” floppy disk sent to you please add an additional $5.00 dollars. Registration entitles you to unlimited free updates and telephone support. You can always download the latest release of ToolBar directly from the Software Design web site on the Internet. Print the ToolBar for Windows 95/NT Order Form and mail it with your check to become a registered user of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT.

Site Licensing

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT can also be registered for use at an entire site for $250.00 dollars. If you would like to install and use ToolBar on multiple workstations at a single location choose this type of licensing. Registration includes a 3 ½” floppy disk and entitles you to unlimited free updates and telephone support. You can always download the latest release of ToolBar directly from the Software Design web site on the Internet. Print the ToolBar for Windows 95/NT Order Form and mail it with your check to become a registered user of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT.

Corporate Licensing

ToolBar for Windows 95/NT can also be registered for use at multiple sites for $1000.00 dollars. If you would like to install and use ToolBar on multiple workstations at multiple locations choose this type of licensing. Registration includes a 3 ½” floppy disk and entitles you to unlimited free updates and telephone support. You can always download the latest release of ToolBar directly from the Software Design web site on the Internet. Print the ToolBar for Windows 95/NT Order Form and mail it with your check to become a registered user of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT.


Shareware Order Form
ToolBar for Windows 95/NT Order Form

To print this order form, press the Print button above, or select Print Topic from the File pull-down menu.

Secure on-line credit card orders can be placed from the Software Design web site.

To order by check, send this order form and a check to:

Gregory Braun

P.O. Box 1307

Milwaukee, WI  53201-1307 U.S.A.

Payments must be in US dollars drawn on a US bank, or you can send international postal orders in US dollars.

All orders are subject to the License Agreement.

Customer information is considered confidential and will not be shared or distributed to any third parties.

Registered users of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT are entitled to unlimited free program updates.

Single User Copy	______ at	$20.00	each =	________

Optional 3 ½” Disk	______ at	$5.00	each =	________

Site License	______ at	$250.00	each =	________

Includes 3 ½” Disk

Corporate License	______ at	$1000.00	each =	________

Includes 3 ½” Disk

Wisconsin Residents add 5.5% sales tax:	________

Total Payment:	________

Date	____________________________________

Name	____________________________________

Organization	____________________________________

Shipping Address	____________________________________

____________________________________

City	____________________________________

State	____________________________________

Zip Code	____________________________________

Country	____________________________________

Day Phone	____________________________________

E-Mail Address	____________________________________

[  ] Please send registration code via E-Mail

Comments:


Credit Card Purchases

Credit Card Purchases

You may purchase ToolBar for Windows 95/NT by credit card over the telephone or directly from my web site on the Internet.

On-line Registration

Secure on-line registration using a major credit card is available directly from the Software Design web site. Simply go to the ToolBar for Windows 95/NT program description page and click your mouse on the RegNet link. You may register ToolBar for Windows 95/NT using your Master Card, Visa, American Express, Discover or EuroCard. Registration keys will be sent to you via eMail.

Telephone Registration

You may also purchase ToolBar for Windows 95/NT toll-free by telephone. Please specify ToolBar for Windows 95/NT when ordering.

Toll-Free:	1.800.999.2734

International:	1.805.288.1827

FAX Line:	1.805.288.1867

Web Site

Click your mouse on the underlined link below to purchase ToolBar for Windows 95/NT by credit card.

Software Design Web Site

(http://www.execpc.com/~sbd)


License Agreement

License Agreement

You should carefully read the following terms and conditions before using this software.  Unless you have a different license agreement signed by Gregory Braun, your use of this software indicates your acceptance of this license agreement and warranty.

Registered Version

One registered copy of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT may either be used by a single person who uses the software personally on one or more computers, or installed on a single workstation used nonsimultaneously by multiple people, but not both.

Site License

Any number of users at a single location may access the registered version of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT through a network, provided that you have obtained a site license for the software covering all workstations that will access the software through the network. Any number of users at a single location can install and use the software on one or more computers or workstations.

Corporate License

Any number of users at any number of locations may access the registered version of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT through a network, provided that you have obtained a corporate license for the software covering all workstations that will access the software through the network. Any number of users at any number of locations can install and use the software on one or more computers or workstations.

Software Updates

Registered users of ToolBar for Windows 95/NT are entitled to unlimited free program updates. Software updates can be downloaded directly from the Software Design web site on the Internet.

Governing Law

This agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin.

Disclaimer of Warranty

THIS SOFTWARE AND THE ACCOMPANYING FILES ARE SOLD "AS IS" AND WITHOUT WARRANTIES AS TO PERFORMANCE OR MERCHANTABILITY OR ANY OTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED. NO WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE IS OFFERED.

Good data processing procedure dictates that any program be thoroughly tested with non-critical data before relying on it. The user must assume the entire risk of using the program.  ANY LIABILITY OF THE SELLER WILL BE LIMITED EXCLUSIVELY TO PRODUCT REPLACEMENT OR REFUND OF PURCHASE PRICE.


Customizing Help

Customizing Help

You can customize this help file to better suit your needs and uses. The following topics describe the various settings that can be configured. The settings you specify will be saved and used again each time you view this help file.

Font Size

The size of the font used in this help file can be made larger or smaller by selecting the Font item from the Options menu above. Select Small, Normal or Large fonts from the popup menu. The font size you select will be saved and used again each time you view this help file.

Window Size

The size of this Help window and its location on the desktop can be adjusted using the standard Windows resizing and placement methods. The window size and its location on the desktop will be saved and used again each time you view this help file.

Window Background Color

The background color for this help window can be changed to white if you prefer. To change the background color to white select the Use System Colors item from the Options menu above. For the color changes to take effect you will have to close and then reopen the Help file. You will be prompted to confirm this action. Your background color selection will be saved and used again each time you view this help file.

Window Placement

By default this help window positions itself in front of all other open windows. If you would prefer to have it covered up by other active windows select the Keep Help on Top item from the Options menu and then select Not on Top from the popup menu. Your selection will be saved and used again each time you view this help file.

Note The settings described on this page refer to options available in the MS Windows Help program not ToolBar. Right-click your mouse anywhere on this page to display a small popup context menu containing the settings described here.